Rescuing Samantha

 …while rescuing others a woman finds herself…

 Rescuing Samantha, contemporary women’s fiction,  written by Heidi M. Thomas, released by SunCatcher Publications.

           Upon learning the family homestead is available for lease, twenty-something Samantha Moser packs up everything, including a rescued Thoroughbred mare and contractor fiancé to head for Eastern Montana and a new start on life. Her goal: leave the past where it belongs; start new in the one place that’s never been far from her mind and heart.  

Things don’t progress as smoothly as hoped. The homestead is worse than derelict and takes everything in Sam’s bag of tricks to make livable. Unfortunately, after his first Montana winter the contractor fiancé throws in the wrench and heads back to Arizona, leaving Sam on her own with no money and few prospects for income.

Instead of giving up, Sam relies time and again on family lore about her grandmother and her mother. Trusting others is difficult, but she perseveres despite repeated rejections. Then, when things seem at the lowest possible point rescues of the two and four-legged variety enter her life. Relying on strength and grit and determination, Sam and her new friends survive—and do it in style.

      There is a common saying among ‘rescue’ devotees in our society: “who saved who?” A very apt description for this remarkable story of those who refuse to give up.

 On a scale of 1-5, Rescuing Samantha deserves a 5.

     Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

An Unprivate War

     The strength of family, like the strength of an army, is in its loyalty to each other… Mario Puzo

The above is proven, several times over, in T.S, Snow’s An Unprivate War, Book 5 in the Star Smuggler series.

         The peace of Felida is broken when various colonies of the Federation are viciously attacked by Severan warriors, leading to damage “not seen since Pearl Harbor”. At first, Sinbad she’en Singh and his progeny elect to stay out of the fray. After all, for centuries Felidans were considered ‘less thans’ by the noble Federation.

          Until the Severans attack Felida and the losses are deep and dear. Sinbad, and his family, to a man—including one lone woman—enlist in combat and for the ensuing years Singh Shipping proves invaluable in service to the Federation.

          After peace is negotiated, the Singh pride find themselves fighting a different kind of war—just as painful, just as heavy. It is often heartbreaking as well as heartwarming how Snow has brought the many characters of this saga to a warm, deserving happiness.

 On a scale of 1-5, An Unprivate War deserves a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Three Sisters

      In Three Sisters, a Western historical novella by Susan Payne and recently released by the Wild Rose Press, three very different women, all sisters, search for the family denied them only to encounter three different men willing to make them a home.

      Beatrice O’Malley and her younger twin sisters make an exhaustive search for their long-lost brother. Their goal: to reunite their fractured family at long last. One lesson, learned early in their rather unique upbringing, was to involvement with law enforcement of any variety. Fate intervenes, throwing the women amusing roadblocks in the form of two marshals and one Pinterton agent who offer the women help, support and love. Accepting that support and love proves to be a  challenge almost as difficult as their original quest.

 On a scale of 1-5, Three Sisters deserves a 4.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Releasing the Catch

      Women. Crab fishing. The Bering Sea. Some men don’t think they belong                                    together. One woman wants to prove them wrong.

            Jeny Heckman’s contemporary women’s fiction novel,  Releasing the Catch, introduces Faith Pearson, a woman unlike any other, born into then raised on the Bering Sea with her outspoken father and his crew. Not the usual picture book life a child but it worked for Faith and her widowed fisherman father, ably abetted by his crew boss, Mack Carter. Through grit and determination Faith learns the workings of a crab boat from the bilges to the decks, earning respect of militant, superstitious males and their counterparts.

 Our Review: there are many strong points to this amazing story, the most obvious being author Heckman’s extensive research about the detailed workings of and the cultural mores and values of the crab fishing industry. Her hard work shows loud and clear and we are better for it. Her characters are multi-layered, intriguing and conflicted, displaying a strong work ethic each day of their lives. This too shows loud and clear—and we are better for it.

 On a scale of 1-5, Releasing the Catch deserves a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Broken Toys

                     Between a rock and a harder place

In Broken Toys, debut author Glenda Thompson introduces Texas Ranger Noah Morgan, a young man who finally has his life together—a great job and the girl of his dreams. When he least expects it, a routine investigation uncovers a band of human traffickers blasting Noah with a vengeance and threatens the new life he’s worked so hard to create.

Our Review:  when we weren’t laughing out loud, we were weeping for this brave young man who yanked himself out of a life of abuse and fraud, turned that life around and made something of himself—only to have that past rise up out of the ashes and threaten to expose him. Author Thompson has many talents, one of which is creating well-drawn, layered characters—complete with warts—who tug at the heart strings and make you want to cheer out loud. Another talent is the ability to write snappy, realistic dialogue and complicated family systems.

On a scale of 1-5, Broken Toys deserves an 8.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Tangled in Tinsel

 Sugar plum fairies eat your heart out…

 In N. Jade Gray’s Tangled in Tinsel, Madison Reynolds returns to her hometown in rural Colorado to help her sister manage the last weeks of a difficult pregnancy—not fantasize about Ryder Sanders, the one who got away. But how does a logical, centered loan officer forget about her high school crush turned local architect when she bumps into him—literally and figuratively—at every turn?

 Will these two deserving people need a gentle push from a couple of Santa’s elves, aided and abetted by an endearing four-year-old to battle the machinations of a determined former paramour who gives new definition to mean girls.

 Our Review:  There are many strengths to this delightful holiday story. At the top of the list is author Gray’s talent for world building. The town of Cedar Bend is a place to come home to, especially during a holiday synonymous with hearth, home and family. From the local fire department’s Ugly Sweatshirt Dinner to the annual tree lighting ceremony and local craft show which is spiked with booths filled with the aromas of warm gingerbread cookies, tree ornaments in the shape of local wildlife and brilliant light shows. Reading this book is like coming home again and we thank N. Jade Gray for the gift.

 On a scale of 1-5, Tangled in Tinsel deserves a 4.

                          Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

Wylder Hearts

 Kim Turner’s Wylder Hearts, the latest release in the Wylder West series by the Wild Rose Press, offers a classic tale of two people torn between what their hearts wants and what duty expects.  

Rancher Caleb Holt raises horses for sale—but only to those who’ll treat the animals with respect. Buyers who fail to heed Caleb’s advice learn quickly, often painfully, to mend their ways.  

While witnessing Caleb dole out advice, struggling seamstress and single mother Laurel Adams comes face to face—literally and figuratively—with an honorable man.   

In the middle of Wylder County, Wyoming Territory and encouraged by the colorful populace we met in other Wylder stories, Caleb and Laurel fall in love. At long last, he finds the love he’s been waiting for. In Caleb, Laurel discovers a man vastly different from the wastrel who wed, then abandoned her and their infant son on an elusive hunt for gold. 

Shortly before the nuptials, Laurel’s husband reappears, demanding his rights as a husband and father. What is a woman of the late 1800s, with few legal remedies at her disposal and limited means of support for herself and her beloved child to do? Should a man, raised to be true to his moral code and values, stand by and watch a woman he’s come to love take off for the Dakotas, taking the child he’s come to view as his own, with some slick-suited fortune hunter?

    The answer is one worth turning the pages!

 On a scale of 1-5, Wylder Hearts deserves a 5.

                   Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

A Walk on the Wylder Side

           Outspoken, rebellious Cissy Arkwright was sent west from her Chicago home to work at a boarding house in Wylder, Wyoming. The last thing she expects is friendship with the handsome new boarder, a man with an air of danger and the power to make her smile.

          Buck Standish is on the run from his past. He'd like to put aside the life of a gun-for-hire, especially once he meets Cissy. But experience tells him the past has a way of catching up, pistols in hand. He's lost his heart to Cissy—should he protect her by hitting the trail again? Or stay in Wylder and fight for their future?

 Laura Strickland’s A Walk on the Wylder Side, book two in the Wylder West series released by the Wild Rose Press, introduces two new characters to Wylder, Wyoming: Cecelia “Cissy” Arkwright, newest in a long line of slave laborers at the Culpepper Boarding House and Buck Standish, a man trying desperately to leave the violence behind and forge a new life.

 Our Review: 

The attraction between Cissy and Buck is immediate and intense, compelling the reader to turn the pages to find which roadblock author Strickland will erect on the path toward true love for these two deserving young people. The secondary characters, colorful and unique in their own way, show this series has been well planned, designed to keep readers returning to see what and who will come on the scene of this small western town. Well done, Ms. Strickland!

On a scale of 1-5, A Walk on the Wylder Side deserves a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Regency Christmas Kisses

 Regency Christmas Kisses: a collection of five short romances by Kathy L Wheeler and Amanda McCabe.   

 Caution: for those expecting a story set in the notoriously stodgy, rule ridden Regency Era,  Regency Christmas Kisses is not the anthology for you.

 Of varying lengths, each story is riddled with laughter, snappy dialogue, well-drawn characters who possess logical and realistic goals, motivation and conflict. After reading all, we now know well-written stories of this genre are out there waiting to be found. For that, we thank authors McCabe and Wheeler.   

 A short synopsis:

·       Snowbound Christmas by Amanda McCabe, features Helen, dowager Lady Fallon, and famous artist Charles St. George. As star-crossed lovers, their too-young romance ended badly. Years later, a sudden Christmas snowstorm offers them a chance to find their way back together, discovering the things they most wanted are right there for the taking.

·       Lady Felicity’s Feud With Christmas by Kathy L Wheeler, offers Lady Felicity Moore who hates everything to do with the Yuletide season—and with good reason. Noah Taylor, Earl of Nexum, in his own unique way shows Felicity how to make new Christmas memories, to wipe away the bad things and look forward to a future. . . with him.

·       A Partridge in a Pear Tree by Amanda McCabe gives new meaning to the old English carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas when a scavenger hunt forces Allison Gordon and William Bradford, aided by their energetic siblings, to use their wits and imaginations when filling the needs of the hunt. In the end, they resolve their feelings, find a suitable home as well as a fortune, and most important: love everlasting.

·       Five Gold Rings by Kathy L Wheeler teaches Bartholomew Dixon, future Earl of Hartley, there’s more to life than endless parties and useless wagers with the leaping lords of Boodles in the form of Philipa Swann, one of her father’s seven marriageable swans.

·       Nine Ladies Dancing by Amanda McCabe is a sweet and simple showcase for opposites who attract—in the most interesting and inventive ways: The vicar and a firecracker, so different yet so alike in wanting the same things. The bookish duke and the organization wizard who disdain parties and social gatherings of most types, yet when in each other’s company find scores of things to discuss and put to use for the welfare of others.

 On a scale of 1-5, Regency Christmas Kisses deserves a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

The Wylder County Social Club

                    Things aren’t what they seem in Wylder County

The Wylder County Social Club, inaugural release of the Wylder West series out of the Wild Rose Press, is written by Nicole McCaffrey.  

Eliza Jane O’Hanlan is prim, proper, snippy—and proud of it. Raised in the East by a maiden aunt, she rushes to the Wyoming Territory after learning the mother she barely knows needs help running her home for wayward girls. Hoping, she and her mother might mend their fractured relationship, Eliza wants to know Adelaide better, perhaps even to love her. Soon after arriving in town she learns the “home” is actually a. . . whorehouse.

        And the hits just keep on coming in this rollicking story of mothers and daughters; pride coming before storms; acceptance then forgiveness.

Perhaps the best “hit” of all is town physician, Samuel “Coyote” Sullivan. He’s one of those classic still-waters-run-deep types: totally yummy and every woman’s fantasy when it comes to a bedside manner.

Do not miss the first in this fabulous series. We’re glad we didn’t.

 On a scale of 1-5, The Wylder County Social Club deserves a 6.

                     Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

Quietus

                    Quietus [noun]: anything that finishes                                   something; a release from life…

          In A Matter of Pride, former smuggler Sinbad sh’en Singh and his Terran wife, Andrea Talltrees, felt compelled to adapt to concepts of Family,  Pride, Customs, and Beliefs in order to establish a forever life on Sin’s home planet of Felida. In Quietus, the finale to author T.S. Snow’s inventive and energetic space opera Star Smuggler series, we come full circle with how clan members have evolved:

Cash, the adventurer-prodigal son, summons everything that’s left inside to make it home for the last time. . .

N’Sagar, Sin and Andi’s only daughter, who was promised shortly after birth to the gentle healer Kas, comes to grips with past mistakes in order to forge a future. . .

Adam, who paid a dear price for loving his father’s concubine, gave up his dream in order to give back to his father. . .

Our Review: In this sometimes sad, occasionally tumultuous, often tear-jerking series finale, we come to understand the full effect of the concepts of family, tribe, clan when two people allow their offspring to test their wings. Forgiveness continues to be an underlying factor, spurring a prodigal son and daughter, wife and mate into irrevocable decisions.

As always, author T.S, Snow brings a unique talent for snappy dialogue, multi-layered characters, and an inventive imagination when it comes to setting a stage. The fine details for describing customs mark Snow’s efforts and throughout the entire Smuggler series and in particular with this book.  

 On a scale of 1-5, Quietus deserves a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Shot Through the Heart

Can revenge be on your mind when you’ve been shot through the heart?

 Shiloh Coltrane and Sydney Cantrell could not be more opposite in every aspect of life: He’s a rough, uncultured Westerner while she’s from a wealthy Eastern family who values education. In spite of several roadblocks, Sydney put that education to good use by becoming one of the first female physicians in 1800’s America, much less the Western frontier. She’s got a rough path in front of her, as does Shiloh. He’s given up life as a hired gun and now searches for the killers of his sister and her child—and faces the same obstacles as Sydney: the reluctant townspeople and the truculent local military establishment. Despite the difficulties they encounter, that irresistible attraction draws them closer.

And beneath it all is the unspoken difference: she’s a healer and he’s . . . not.

Our Review:  Author Dowling has painted a vivid picture of life in the Old West, drawing on societal norms as well as the polar differences which beset human nature of any generation and has not disappointed her devote readers. In Shot Through the Heart, she applied the basic rules of writing successful romances:  create well-drawn characters; instill each with believable goals, logical motivations, and strong conflicts both internal and external. Time after time, Shiloh and Sydney are faced with insurmountable barriers, yet they always triumph and do it in clever, inventive ways. This is a joy to read.

 On a scale of 1-5, Shot Through the Heart deserves a 5.

 

Christmas Rekindled

 . . . Tacoma bartender River Lundqvist has a damn good reason for hating Christmas. Working at Bangers Tavern keeps him busy and helps him work through the grief associated with tragic loss. “Get back to living” is the last thing he wants to hear. 

. . . Freelance web designer Charlie Khoury returns to Tacoma for a family emergency—only for the short term—and must brace herself for the suckiest Christmas ever. A temporary job at Bangers gives her a chance to earn the money needed to keep her business afloat, escape her father’s constant criticism, and blow off steam caused by the abrupt desertion of a long-term boyfriend.      

. . . Their unplanned introduction at Bangers stirs up powerful desires—as well as errant thoughts of starting anew. Except the timing is off. After greedy developers threaten to take over Bangers, River and Charlie muster the troops to save the neighborhood symbol of family, comfort and home away from home. Sizzling chemistry might feel like the real thing—but do rebound relationships last?

Our Review:   Once again, author Sadira Stone has not failed her fans with this colorful setting, which she populated with unique characters and even more unique events designed to save the bar. [Gus the Grump in his SpongeBob pajama shirt to celebrate PJ Nite was a particularly fun touch.] As well, her skill for nicely subtle sexual tension, slowly building to a mind-blowing crescendo is well done. For fans of well-drawn plot lines with steamy romance, terrific characters and snappy dialogue, this is the book for you.

On a scale of 1-5, Christmas Rekindled earns a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

A Matter of Pride

                        . . . A matter of pride—a matter of family. . .

A Matter of Pride, Book 3, the Star Smuggler series by T.S. Snow  

           Former smuggler Sinbad sh’en Singh returns to his home planet of Felida with Terran wife Andrea and their children intent on beginning this new phase of their lives. Both Sin and Andi have been tested, often in horrendous ways, to reach this stage; both deserve all good things for their future. Little do they know what the concepts of Family, Pride, Customs, and Beliefs will have in store for them, testing their love, devotion and resilience forever more.

 Our Review:  As always, author T.S, Snow brings a unique talent for snappy dialogue, multi-layered characters, and an inventive imagination when it comes to setting a stage. It is the fine details for describing customs—which might feel foreign to some—that mark Snow’s efforts in this book and throughout the entire Smuggler series. We are better for having read and appreciated this undertaking.    

 On a scale of 1-5, A Matter of Pride deserves a 5.

          Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

A Song for Another Day

    In Willow Springs, Broadway dreams and country music collide in A Song for Another Day: the Deerbourne Inn series. 

     Big city tense meets laid-back and laconic when Juilliard trained/Broadway hopeful Giselle Jensen takes time out from between shows to direct a community review in the colorful Mad River region of Vermont. Within minutes of arriving in Willow Springs, she meets up—rather abruptly—with budding singer/song writer  Jason Simmons. Over the course of the next six weeks, each teaches the other important life skills—as well as how to recover from past injuries.

Our Review: Whomever coined the phrase opposites attract had these two in mind—except for the caveat that speaks to oppo-sites whose values and dreams could not be more polar in description. Author Imbalzano brings a sensitivity for the dreams of artists—then plants them seamlessly on the pages of A Song for Another Day. An extra bonus is the color she infuses into small town life and the usual characters who infest them. Fans of the Deerbourne Inn series and Imbalzano will be delighted with this latest testament to her skills.

On a scale of 1-5, A Song for Another Day deserves a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

By Promise Made

. . . Trained to protect her queen at all costs, Katherine Payne can show no mercy to the handsome messenger, Hugh Cullane, despite the way his stolen kiss unsettles her single-minded sense of duty. Trapped between the English and Scottish armies, she must escape with four-year-old Mary, Queen of Scots. Hugh joins her as they are chased by men determined to murder the young queen in their own quest for power. By promise made they will keep her alive! . . .

 Scotland, under the reign of the child who came to be known as Mary, Queen of Scots, comes to life beneath the clever and imaginative pen of author Susan Leigh Furlong in By Promise Made. Tasked with protecting the child queen, Kit trains to do her best, battling all comers who might bring harm to her charge. Little does she know the fiercest of “all comers” is the Scotsman Hugh Cullane. His skills are many, his attraction irresistible.

Our Review:  As much as we enjoyed Furlong’s earlier historical romance Steadfast Will I Be, this latest endeavor showcases the author’s gift for bringing research to the page, enhancing her diverse, multi-layered characters. Her talent for creating a setting puts the reader in the middle of forests as easily as a castle keep. By Promise Made rings with authenticity and for those reasons deserves a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

A Regency Christmas by Susan Payne

               In A Regency Christmas Story, we meet Penny Cooper, a sensible but naïve young woman who enables her gambler sibling whose gift of gab defies description. Their dead father left them a small trust and, as using/abusing people will, brother Christopher makes the best of a dismal situation—all to his benefit. Enter Daniel, Lord Leighton who, while collecting a sizable debt from Christopher, shows both siblings a better way of life.

The Best Christmas Present treats the reader to an inventive twist on the usual Regency romance: the hero does not choose the young, naïve deb but her mother—a woman he met years ago and was never able to forget. This brilliant take on the usual plotline makes this the strongest and most enjoyable of the three.

As a strong contender for “best in show” we have Sugar Plum Christmas, where the sharp-witted Lord Hedley meets hardworking, French émigré confectioner Micheline. One taste of her eclairs tells him she is the one. As should be with any romance, conflicts arise, and the devil-may-care lord has his work cut out for him when it comes to persuading Michie to trust him with her secrets.

Our Review: Once again, author Susan Payne’s extensive research turns the details of the luscious desserts created by Micheline [Sugar Plum Christmas] and social ills of the day [A Regency Christmas Story] jumping off the page. Readers and loyal fans will not be disappointed.

 On a scale of 1-5, A Regency Christmas deserves a 4.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Mountain Blaze by Debby Grahl

Wealthy Diana Thompson falls in love with cowboy Dillon McCoy. Now both must run from a killer while saving the Lazy M ranch.

          Hoping to reach a decision whether or not to marry a man not of her dreams, educator Diana Thompson retreats to a mountain ranch outside colorful Ashville, North Carolina for the Thanksgiving holiday. There she comes face to face with a man who could fulfill her dreams—turning them hotter than any she ever experienced.

Fresh off a marriage gone south, rodeo cowboy Dillon McCoy returns to his family’s ranch, to lick his wounds and decide what he wants to do with the rest of his life. After meeting Diana Thompson he realizes it’s right here, in the arms of this slim, intrepid woman.

But something is wrong. He can’t quite put his finger on it and Dillon knows the odd happenings around the Lazy M can’t all be coincidence. Together, as Diana and he confront past disappointments, they unite to find a killer before someone else dies.

Our Review:  There are many intriguing aspects of Mountain Blaze. First is the author’s ability to create a lush setting that almost jumps off the page. The second is the cast of different, well-drawn characters. Perhaps most important, for fans of romantic suspense, is Ms. Grahl’s talent for building suspense. Mountain Blaze is a page turner. And once you’ve read it, you’ll want to go back and do it all over again. It’s that good.

On a scale of 1-5, Mountain Blaze deserves a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews  

Home In Your Arms by Charlotte O'Shay

                                . . .Sometimes home is a person. . .

After her sweetheart Joe dies in a road accident, twenty-four hours after he returns from Army service, grieving Karla Payne slams the door on love. Five years later, her tavern business is booming, and she owns her home, but she knows forever love has no part in her future.

Headed to interview for his first civilian job, retired career Army 1^st Sgt. Zane Blackthorne can’t resist visiting his late buddy’s beloved Vermont hometown. He also can’t resist looking up Joe’s sweetheart, Karla, who is an alluring mix of brains, beauty and bravery. Loyalty to his brother-in-arms demands Zane fight his attraction to Karla. Besides, even if Karla wants him, she’ll never love him.

Can Zane say goodbye to the woman he has no right to call his own? Even if his only true home in in her arms?

 Our Review: Both Zane and Karla continue to mourn the loss of Joe, her fiancé and his trusted friend. While time has yet to heal the worst of the wounds, their attraction is immediate and undeniable. When they finally come together, it’s explosive.

 Author O’Shay has not failed her faithful fans in this offering of a luscious Vermont setting, the quaint charming town of Willow Springs, and fun, multi-layered secondary characters. Then, she gifts us with Zane and Karla, two protagonists who capture the heart with just a few words.

 Home In Your Arms, a lovely addition to the Deerbourne Inn series out of the Wild Rose Press deserves a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

The Love Left Behind by Delsora Lowe

 Her only worry was the out-of-control mother-of-the-bride—until the past slams headfirst into the present.

    Event planner Marlee Thomas has worked herself to the bone to turn her family estate into a showcase for event venues. Every detail, from the color of table linens to conference room seating, receives her individualized attention. So, if she’s a bit lonely and occasionally wishes for something more. . . that’s what it is—wishing.

Until the father-of-the-bride rescues Marlee from the talons of every wedding planner’s worst nightmare: Momzilla. The past, in the form of attorney Brian Mason,  meets the present with the force of a cat 4 hurricane and the fun begins.

Our Review:  Once again, author Lowe has brought in-depth research to the pages of this delightful story—from the setting of the elegant Rhode Island coast to the minute details necessary for pulling off a major event—and making it look like child’s play. And we are better for it.  

 For fans of second chances, triumph over past mistakes and treachery, mature characters who know what they want—and aren’t afraid to go after it, this is the book for you. Brava, Ms. Lowe.  

 On a scale of 1-5, The Love Left Behind deserves a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Rescued by a Highlander

She would do anything to save her father and her heritage. . .

even wed a highlander.

Rescued by a Highlander, by Susan Payne, a current release out of the Wild Rose Press.

      Lady Jillian Riley takes her ailing father, Lord Riley, on the run to escape the machinations of her avaricious cousin anxious to claim the title as Earl of Crawford. After days on the road, hungry, freezing and near death, they are rescued by Gawain Macgregor. As the two come to know each other, learning to respect their individual needs and goals, who is the rescuer?

      In Rescued by a Highlander, author Payne again gifts her readers with her knack for detailed research, turning her enormous efforts into the lush scenes of a Scots castle keep, the foods of the region and clothing styles of the day. As an extra treat, she has given us in depth archeological evidence of the pre-historic Picts.

 On a scale of 1-5, Rescued by a Highlander deserves a 5.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Steadfast Will I Be by Susan Leigh Furlong

                The king’s law, a thief’s revenge, a love that risks it all.

Steadfast Will I Be, a historical romance, written by Susan Leigh Furlong, released by the Wild Rose Press.

     Rescued as a battered child by a Scots border lord, Robin grows under the tutelage of his laird, assuming responsibilities as reeve of the estate as an adult. His love for Suannoch is never failing, one he will carry to the grave should it come to that.

And it might very well come to Robin’s death if the law of King James V is followed to the letter. Suannoch will not let her love go quietly, proving her worthy of this brave man’s love and honor.

Our Review:  devotees of Scots historicals will take Steadfast Will I Be to their hearts and cherish it. Author Furlong’s knowledge of the culture and mores of the times, as well as an overwhelming wealth of research, brings a realism to this story and we are better for it.  

 On a scale of 1-5, Steadfast Will I Be deserves a 5.

         Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

The Texas Ranger and the Professor by Susan Payne

           Cultural anthropologist Jessie Reeves, driven to prove a woman can perform field work as well as any man, is compelled to travel to harsh terrains, completing rigorous studies without running home scared. To that end, she accepts the services offered by the Texas Rangers in the form of Captain Ben Edwards, a man on the brink of closing out his tour with the Rangers before returning to civilian life.  

After ten seconds of first meeting in a dusty train station, they realize life might not be as clear cut. In order to accomplish their goals, without murdering the other, they must find common ground in the areas of strongly held ideas about human nature in general, gender roles in particular.

Just as they reach a certain degree of mutual respect, an attack by a Comanche raiding party sets off a series of events which forever alters their lives.

 Our Review:  as with her previous novels, author Payne offers the same detailed research readers have come to expect, bringing realism to each novel, each character. In the case of The Texas Ranger and the Professor, she paints a vivid portrait of Native American cultures common to the American southwest in the late 1800’s, including the biases and abuses employed by the various segments of white society: military, politics, and organized religion.   

 On a scale of 1-5, The Texas Ranger and the Professor deserves a 3.

                     Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Star Smuggler: A Course of Action by T.S. Snow

 Andi sh’en Singh proves her mettle in Star Smuggler Book 2: A Course of Action, a recent release by Aethon Books.

 Wedding bells . . . or death knell?

        Sinbad may have traded in his smuggler’s leathers for farmer’s coveralls but “Happily Ever After” isn’t in the cards for him and his beloved Andrea. And Andi soon finds there’s a great deal she doesn’t know about her new husband . . . such as the young stranger who claims to be Sin’s son.

While she’s recovering from that shock, Sin succumbs to the 

terminal illness he’s kept secret from everyone. Not to worry . . .

there’s a surgeon who can save his life. But Jean-Clair DuPont is as unscrupulous as he is skilled. His fee? Andi, for the duration of her husband’s convalescence.

The new Mrs. sh’en Singh doesn’t think twice. DuPont gets what he wants and Sin lives to fight another day. . . once he recovers.

That better happen soon for Andi’s lover-by-force has taken her off planet and directly into an attack by slave traders. Now a candidate for the slave pits of Bel-Ammon, Andi finds herself face to face with enemies, new and old.

Our Review:

        Sinbad sh'en Singh, the quintessential anti-hero from Star Smugglers Book 1—which totally knocked off our socks—has met his match in Andi, Talltrees. He’s always known she is brave, fearless and committed to her husband and children. But as his life comes to an end from the fatal lung disease contracted during one of his incarcerations, Andi will do anything, any thing, to save his life—even if it means succumbing to the lecherous Dr. DuPont. Sinbad is her life and she’ll tolerate the worst to achieve the best—the survival of her husband, father of her children.  

One disaster after another rain on this strong woman’s head. But if Andi is nothing else, she is a survivor. And watching her survive well is an absolute joy.

        As with Book 1 of this sci-fi adventure/space opera, Book 2 will keep you turning the pages—it's that good. At times funny, then frightening, it is a heart warming experience. Give yourself a gift by picking up this one up. It's another wonder from the multi-talented T.S. Snow.

On a scale of 1-5, Star Smuggler: A Course of Action deserves a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Mine to Tell by Colleen L. Donnelly

 . . . Annabelle: the first female in Julianne Crouse’s direct lineage; the one forbidden to be like her; the one called to know why. . .

Mine to Tell, a mainstream historical novel, written by Colleen L. Donnelly, published by the Wild Rose Press.  

      Journalist Annabelle Crouse feels compelled to learn more about her great-grandmother Julianne, a subject of whispers and ridicule both inside the family as well as the local tight knit community, banished by an unrelenting religious zealot husband, and forced to live alone in grief and isolation.

      With the assistance of a local man, Annabelle fights every step of the way, determined to uncover what exactly led to generations of ill-will and bigotry. What she learns will change her life—and that of her family—forever.

Our Review:  In Mine to Tell, Author Donnelly gifts us with a young woman who evolves into a picture of courage despite regular abuse heaped upon her by those who should love her—but are more comfortable believing lies and innuendo—remaining steadfast in her mission to uncover the truth.

Annabelle is amazing. As amazing as her great-grandmother Julianne. And we are better for reading about both women. Well done, Ms. Donnelly.

 On a scale of 1-5, Mine to Tell deserves a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Bear with Me

 . . . A new home, a fresh start, and magical secrets that could destroy them. . .

Bear with Me, book 1 of the Strawberry Shifters series, released by the Wild Rose Press.

 

     Alison has magical gifts, one of which is bringing new life to dying plants, the other is SPD—sensory processing disorder. After an unplanned pregnancy, Grant marries her, believing he could protect her from herself and the outside world. But the marriage turned into a long-distance relationship as he pursued a high-stress career and she remained at home with her parents, learning how to protect herself from the outside world, and raising her child.  

     After Grant is offered a lucrative position with a pharmaceutical company in rural Kentucky, the two decide to give their marriage one last try. But Strawberry, Kentucky has multiple secrets. Beneath its beautiful scenery lies a collection of evil Slaugh, former fairies, cast out for their bad behaviors. And they’re out for the blood of the local clan of shifters. As the new moon approaches, Grant, as the new leader of the shifters, and Alison, as a green witch, find themselves and those they care about in grave danger. Together, they battle the Slaugh, discovering new, underexplored facets to each other—and rescue their marriage.

 Our Review:  This non-stop action series with its deliciously hot sexual undertones, features two multi-layered lead characters whose strong wills and bold facades hide bleeding hearts and deep devotion to their beloved son. The author brings true and clear emotions  to this story, ones that ring true and clear.

 On a scale of 1-5, Bear With Me deserves a 4.

      Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Whispers in Washington

                    Burned once, twice immolated—or lucky at last?

Whispers in Washington by Jennifer Wilck

       Three years ago Naomi Reuben fled Washington DC after an ugly scandal that sent her marriage down the tubes and her husband to prison. The ex is where he belongs, and Naomi is where she needs to be: back at the scene of the crime to make a new home, with the perfect job, and a chance to put her fractured life back together. To heal, herself and her precious children.  

Max Bruder, former newspaper editor with ethics turned freelance reporter, is looking for the story that will put him on the road toward financial security. His new neighbor, the infamous Naomi Adelman—now Reuben—might just be the ticket to achieving his dream of writing the novel that’s rumbled around inside his head for the last couple years.

As he gets to know the real Naomi, who is nothing like the picture painted by political reporters years ago, he learns she is kind, brave and devoted to her children. If he writes the story of a lifetime it might very well bring her new life to a crashing end.

In turn, getting to know Max is a treat for Naomi as she spends time with someone who respects her for the person she is; doesn’t try to control her every move—and encourages her to soar.

 Our Review:  As with any Jennifer Wilck creation, the reader relies

on being served more than the standard goals, motivation and

conflict romance. This time we’re treated to lush descriptions of

various Egyptian foods, centuries of Jewish culture and traditions,

picturesque small towns common to the gorgeous Pocono

Mountains, the angst that goes hand in hand with long-distance

single parenting, and the struggle to start over after horrendous

betrayal.

 Whispers in Washington does not fail. On a scale of 1—5, it deserves a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

A Kitchen Helper

 Something to solve the age-old dilemma:“What’s for Dinner?”  

The Super Simple Easy Cookbook, a 2018 release by Diana Stout.  

         Tired of fixing the same old, same old?

        Looking to help that young person in your life take an interest in nutrition? A new taste in food? Explore new roads to independence?

        Diana Stout’s Super Simple Easy Cookbook is the answer we’ve all been looking for. Separated into simple categories from breakfast offerings to intriguing sounding beverages [alcoholic or soft], this is a quick, easy helpmate in the kitchen. Options for substitutes are included—a wonderful aide to those of us who are challenged in the culinary imagination area.

        Plus. . . a terrific gift for the newly or about to be wed couple.  

 On a scale of 1-5, The Super Simple Easy Cookbook deserves a 5.

          Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Star Smuggler: The Last Voyage by TS Snow

 He's a criminal. She's far from it. Together, they’re Earth's last hope... they just don’t know it yet.

           Sinbad sh'en Singh had everything. A thriving smuggling career, his hologram on wanted posters on eleven planets, and plenty of women. Then she walked into his life.
           Andrea Talltrees, member of a backwards cult not believing in space travel or anything else invented after the Twentieth Century. She wants him to find her husband, a fugitive accused of being an Albegensian spy, the planet currently at war with Earth.
           He doesn’t want anything to do with an Earther, but a massive culture clash and a heavy dose of instant attraction get in the way, sending good sense flying out the viewport.
          They'll brave some very unsavory characters, maybe even prevent a second interplanetary war...if they can stop arguing.

Our Review:

Sinbad sh'en Singh is the quintessential anti-hero: bold, brash and a devil inside or out of his airship. Andi Talltrees is brave and fearless, committed to home, hearth and the Naturals culture. When the chips are down and she must find her husband, she leaves home and hearth and often forgoes cultural mores in order to survive.

Funny how near death experiences, one after another, shows a woman—or a man—what's worth fighting for.

This sci-fi adventure will keep you turning the pages—it's that good. At times funny, then frightening, it is a heart warming experience. Give yourself a gift by picking this one up. It's a wonder.

On a scale of 1-5, Star Smuggler: The Last Voyage deserves a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

To Heal A Heart by Jana Richards

                                                 Exactly who rescued who?

To Heal a Heart, Book 2, The Masonville Series written by Jana Richards and released out of the Wild Rose Press.

Veterinary tech Blair Grayson and wounded veteran Garrett Saunders tangle over an abused horse in the middle of an isolated North Dakota road. As words and emotions fly, it is not an encounter either forgets.

Both are rescuers; both are in grave need of being saved though for different reasons. Blair needs to forgive herself for long ago mistakes; Garrett struggles on a daily basis to forget things and events better left buried. Unfortunately PTSD manages to rear its ugly head at the worst possible moments.   

In the middle of their animal and human rescue endeavors, each finds redemption and love. And what a delight it is to watch it happen.

With her latest novel, author Jana Richards shows, once again, her gift for snappy dialogue, multi-layered characters and gut-wrenching emotion. This is not a book to pick up, thinking you’ll read for a few minutes before turning in. No no no.

To Heal A Heart is one of those page turners you will not forget soon. Book 3 in this heart-warming series cannot come soon enough.

 On a scale of 1-5, To Heal A Heart deserves a 7.

                      Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Rocked By Grace

 Is she his saving grace—or are some actions unforgiveable?  

Rocked By Grace, Book 1 in the Love And Chaos series, is a September 2020 release, written by M.J. Schiller.  

     26-year-old Zane Sanders, front man for Just Short of Chaos, hottest rock group in town, is treading a very fine line between success and hitting his own personal bottom. Too much booze, too little down time, and a ton of baggage hangs heavy and relentless on his thoughts. Until in the middle of a concert in Saint Louis he picks lovely Grace Prescott out of the screaming crowd and summons her to join him on stage.

Thereafter he believes she might just be his saving grace.

Grace Prescott struggles each day to make it through the next twenty-four hours. Her history with men is not one a mother would wish for her daughter; her choice of friends is, shall we say . . . eclectic. But one thing is for sure: she is devoted to Jamie, her much younger brother with special needs. As the only bright spot in her life, she will go it alone before again exposing him to danger, violence, or abuse.

Is Zane Sanders worth her taking a huge personal risk? She senses beneath the world-weary persona and braggadocio, there lies a heart as big as all outdoors and a need to take care of others. After creating magic on the concert stage—they decide to give Zane’s two-week hiatus from a grueling tour to see if this is a basic case of momentary lust—or the real deal, one touched by grace.

With this latest novel, M.J. Schiller again displays her knowledge of the KISS [Keep It Simple Sweetie] rule for writing romance. She creates a few, multi-layered characters, gives them a few warts, drops them into realistic situations any reader can relate to, then makes them fight their way out.

This first book in the Love And Chaos series shows the author’s skills to their max—and we weren’t disappointed.

 On a scale of 1-5, Rocked By Grace deserves a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews