His Christmas Muse by J. J. Ransom

 After online dating goes sideways, a southern girl meets a fellow who's obviously all wrong for her, but a little dog brings them together.

About the Book: Sylvie is a lonely southern girl looking for love online. She finds herself on a dating site, and the fun is supposed to begin. Pete is divorced and just fine being alone. He accidentally meets Sylvie after she’s stood up by a blind date. When they bump into each other again, he is smitten. She unlocks Pete’s writer’s block, so he plots to keep Sylvie in his orbit. He’s wrong for her, Sylvie is certain, even though she doesn’t know who he really is. A rescue dog named Riley keeps bringing them together. Silvie discovers the magic of Christmas in Virginia where love lights up her holiday.

     His Christmas Muse explores how we misjudge others, tell ourselves lies, and heal from past wounds.

Our Review: This sweet, contemporary holiday romance will light up those dark nights, perhaps in front of a warm fire and the adult beverage of your choice. A standout quality of this story is the snappy dialogue—particularly after Pete arrives on screen—and makes this a good read.

Based on a scale of 1-5, His Christmas Muse merits a 3.5.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

Love & the Divorce Lawyer

About the Book: Four years ago, divorce attorney Josie Jensen came close to death at the hands of a client—leaving her permanently disabled. Now, something calls her back to the courtroom—and it’s another woman in jeopardy from her abusive husband. It’s just this one, she vows. Until the next, then the next. When threats, at first minor and annoying, become increasingly more scary and start to inconvenience Josie’s daily life she starts to wonder. Something is up—but who? —and why?

 Our Review: Reminiscent of the classic movies featuring the snappy banter of Tracy and Hepburn, along with the push-pull conflict at personal and professional levels. Flavor all that with Jewish traditions and customs and the reader can’t help but smile. Josie has the guts and grit of ten women while her antagonist—opposing attorney Richard Diamond—brings a certain mysterious sexiness to every scene. That smile broadens as we wonder what will come next in this fun series. A winner all around.

 On a scale of 1-5, Love & the Divorce Lawyer merits a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

  

What Happened to the Boy?

About The Book: An intense fire destroys the palatial home of a prominent attorney and his wife. After their bodies are removed from the burning house, Sam Nagy is pronounced dead at the scene; his wife, Alyssa, succumbs on the way to the hospital. The causes of death are due to bullet wounds—not the fire.

But what happened to their little boy?

Thin Lizzy, a homeless woman, who secretly resides at the public library each night, knows about the boy, but she’s not telling anyone anything.

 Our Review: One cannot help but root for this small child who has his parents taken so brutally—his situation is described in gut wrenching detail by the author. At the same time, the real hero of this story is Thin Lizzy, a strong, independent woman who lives by her wits and grit. Watching Lizzy, an avowed misanthrope, heal in both heart and soul due to helping this little boy reflects the joy and spirit of the season, instilling hope and joy for all involved.

 On a scale of 1-5, What Happened to the Boy? merits a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Periphery by AA Dasilva

…After a young widow falls for a mysteriously familiar stranger, she’s targeted by an agency intent on exploiting the ability gained after an earlier near-death experience. When offered a chance to reconnect with her late husband, things get complicated…and dangerous…

About the Book:  Four years ago, Charlotte barely survived an accident that killed her husband. Resuscitated a savant, she has struggled to find meaning in her survival. After she meets Simon, a mysteriously familiar stranger, they are drawn to each other with an undeniable magnetism. But Simon is contracted to a black-ops agency.

With the agency on her heels, and Simon claiming her heart, Charlotte’s past and future collide when she’s offered a chance to reconnect with her late husband. As secrets are revealed, motives uncovered, and alliances are formed, Charlotte must choose…between the fate of the world and the fate of her heart.

Our Review: From page one of debut author AA Dasilva’s Periphery, the reader knows they are in for a treat—if treachery, danger and an undercurrent of evil is their choice in reading enjoyment. Well drawn, intriguing characters abound; a vague sense of ‘something is off’ keeps the pages turning in order to learn the source of Charlotte’s discomfort. This is an excellent example of clever plotting and in-depth experience with the dark side of man’s nature.

Based on a scale of 1-5, Periphery merits a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Raven Spirit by Pam Binder

 A high school junior is accused of murder. His alibi is a beautiful ghost—and a couple of birds.

 About The Book: In the sleepy town of Pinedale, NC, seventeen-year-old Nate Collier, a self-proclaimed rebel, is accused of hanging his best friend from the goal post. His alibi is Fiona, a ghost who haunts Pinedale High, and a couple ravens named Edgar and Allan who rescue him from an evil ghost. His explanations about ghosts and ravens go up in smoke against authorities who are convinced the killer is more of a flesh and blood variety.

          But nothing is as it seems. The ghost Nate considered a friend turns against him. At the same time, he recognizes his attraction toward someone he believed to be only a friend is more than that. Before he can tell RuthAnn how he feels, he must join forces with past school enemies to defeat the evil ghost before it takes possession of its next victim—who could be Nate himself.

 Our Review: It is always a joy to meet well-written characters, ones with a heart, a mind, and a spirit to match. And when a touch of snark flavors the picture—enough to bring a smile to our lips—all the better. Such is with the characters in this book. Ghost or ‘living’ they leap off the page and grab the heart. Pam Binder offers YA fans an excellent addition to what looks to be a fun series by a group of authors from the Wild Rose Press.

 On a scale of 1-5, Raven Spirit deserves a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Ghost Therapy by Mark Rosendorf

 About The Book: Pinedale Central High School is rumored to be haunted. For fifteen-year-old Sam Anderson, his haunting comes from the bullying he suffers on a daily basis inside the school’s walls. Then Sam meets Jessica, a former Pinedale student who died over a century ago. She convinces Sam to stand up to his bully. Unfortunately, the confrontation ends in tragedy.

Now, Sam is one of the ghosts no one can see or hear—until he meets Mr. Copeland, former military operative and current guidance counselor at the school. The two form a bond created out of Mr. Copeland’s determination to help Same find his way to the afterlife. Their efforts have consequences—some good, others less so—and one which could put the lives of everyone in the school at risk.

 Our Review: Author Rosendorf puts his experience from working with challenged students to good use with this story of a disadvantaged, troubled young man with little to go on and nowhere to turn. Until he dies at the hands of a bully and eventually meets up with someone who has his number. And suddenly this young man sees the light—no pun intended. This is a story of hope and redemption, clarity and change.

On a scale of 1-5, Ghost Therapy merits a 5.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Thistle in the Mistletoe by Margaret Izard

 Forced into a marriage neither sought, they must find common ground—or die for the trying.

About The Book: Mary, only daughter of the laird of Comyn, is forced to wed the laird of the MacDougall clan, or her father and the new laird will die. Theirs has been a long-standing feud which the king seeks to stop by demanding a merger—as well as an infant within a year’s time.

Mary knows what it is to be unwanted, unloved and under-valued—mostly because of her gender—so living among the MacDougalls’ hatred and loathing is nothing new. Roderick MacDougall, however, has only known love and devotion from his immediate family and members of his extended clan. When Mary is threatened at every turn, to the point of near death, he must put aside what he thinks he knows and open his eyes to the truth.

These two stubborn people have much to learn how to forge a future under the most bitter of circumstances. Or heads will roll—literally.

Our Review: Author Izard, known for extensive research into her topic does not disappoint her legion of fans with this story. The characters are well developed, demonstrating multiple layers and individual traits. The history of customs, fashion, food abound and offer flavor to this beauty. Fans of historical romance, particularly set in medieval Scotland, will love this one.

On a scale of 1-5, Thistle in the Mistletoe deserves a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Yule Tide by Brian Anderson

 Christmas can be magical. It can also be deadly.

 Yule Tide, a novel of Christmas

 About the Book: Years after the death of Kris Kringle—maybe an accident, or maybe not—a fallen angel turned private investigator attempts to wrest the operation of Christmas from the control of a shadowy organization that has taken over the whole holiday and twisted it to their own evil ends.

 Our Review: Devotees of Robert B. Parker’s Spenser PI and John R. Maxim’s Paul Bannerman will grab onto Brian Anderson’s Yule Tide and not let go. Something dark and uncomfortably evil has worked its way into all parts of the Yule season. Fallen angel turned flailing private investigator, Harold [as in Hark the Herald—get it?] seeks to return things to the way they once were. The way they should be. Loner Harold can’t do it alone so, employing a cast of unique and quirky two and four-legged characters, he thwarts the Organization at every turn. The dry humor and snappy dialogue—Anderson’s trademark—are always a treat. This one’s a beauty. Don’t miss it.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Yule Tide merits an 8.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Stone of Lust by Margaret Izard

 She finds true love in the past, but is his love worth risking her future?

 About the Book:  She dreams of a Viking warrior with Fae-blue eyes and a God-like body that makes her heart pound like no other. Trying to save her kidnapped sister-in-law, Ainslie follows her back to the Vikings of Scotland, where she faces the very man who has haunted her dreams.

When Jarl, Rannick MacRaghnaill meets the alluring Warrior Woman who helped steal his warship, she dresses in clothing so strange that every curve teases his senses. But is she, as she claims, a woman from the future or an irresistible lying thief?

She’d risk her life to save her sister-in-law. He’d risk his honor to win her heart. Can both hardened warriors save the realms from the evilest of Fae’s minds combined with the most dangerous of humans?

 Our Review:  Bringing well-loved characters from her first novel [Stone of Love], the author uses them in a secondary role this time and enticing the reader into another magical time travel to medieval Scotland. In Stone of Lust, author Margaret Izard’s acute attention to details of the period, including the issue of men’s drive to control women—an issue which has been around since the cavemen—is just one more reason to pick up then enjoy this book. Izard has outdone herself. Again.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Stone of Lust merits a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews.

The Passenger by Joie Lesin

 . . . The Passenger: a tale of family connections, life-changing choices, and love—lost and found . . .

About the Book: Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of her empathic gift and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of a lonely old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home.

Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who, he believes, abandoned him as a child. To help Paolo, the father, pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift—and believe in her?

Our Review: From the first page this brilliantly written historical ghost story, we were entranced. The author’s skill at describing setting—from the foxholes of wartime Europe to the trolleys of Boston, then on to California’s vast wine country, the reader is absorbed. The desperately lonely and critically ill Paolo is heartbreaking. His only goal is to seek forgiveness from his wife and son. The still grieving Elizabeth is unable to refuse his plea for help. Then to meet taciturn Gio who, though he does not recognize it, is desperate for a love of his own, like the one his madre claims she had with his padre. Who doesn’t want that? The secondary plot line of enduring love of the generations is a real heart breaker. Do not pass on The Passenger. It’s a beauty.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, The Passenger merits a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Tuesday's Child by Toni V. Sweeney

 They found love but a closely guarded secret could destroy it…

 About The Book: Grace McAllister hasn't seen or heard from her father since her mother left him twenty years before. When she receives word that Benjamin Troup McAllister has died, she returns to McAllister, Georgia, for the reading of his will. Imagine her shock when she learns that not only does she inherit nothing, but the will states that Benjamin is not her biological father. Stunned by this revelation, she decides to find her real father and enlists the aid of childhood friend Mayfield Donovan.

        The bully of her earliest years, May has grown into a handsome, sensual stranger who becomes Grace's support—and lover—while helping her question her mother's old friends, as well as Benjamin McAllister's enemies which are legion.

     As they sift through the facts of her mother's life and confront the men who loved her, they uncover a tale of revenge, deception, and murder, and discover a truth neither wants to believe or accept.

Our Review: It’s always a treat to read a story by Toni V. Sweeney’s because of the flavor and tone she brings to the pages, including the colorful spice of Southern life, vivid characters who jump off the page and intriguing secrets hidden beneath the many layers. Settle in and enjoy this story of the South. It’s a honey.

On a scale of 1-5, Tuesday’s Child merits a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Hunting Hannah by C.B. Clark

When an ugly past threatens a promising future.

 About The Book: Investigative journalist Hannah Marchand’s assignment to cover a remote archeological site in British Columbia arrives at the perfect time—helping her to evade a violent stalker. Archeologist Roman Patrick saw his professional life and reputation come to a vicious halt at the hands of a self-seeking reporter and vows he’ll never associate with any journalist. Ever. But Hannah is different—and in trouble. Soon, the entire dig is at risk. The two must work together, to save the site and their very lives.

 Our Review: This compelling read is a study in how to write exciting suspense fiction. Both characters, well drawn and multi-layered, demonstrate legitimate and understandable goals, motivation as well as a compelling conflict. For excellence in suspense, C.B. Clark is the author for you.

 On a scale of 1-5, Hunting Hannah merits a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

  

Undercover Babymoon by Karina Bartow

 Most mothers-to-be spend their pregnancy leafing through baby names and shopping for nursery furniture. Minka Avery spends hers trying to hunt down a murderer on the open seas.

 About the Book: A babymoon provides parents-to-be—Wes and Minka Avery—the opportunity to unwind from preparing for the new addition and enjoy some pampering In the case of police detective Minka she gets to catch a killer.

 

Our Review: As always, author Karina Bartow gives her readers non-stop action and brisk, snappy dialogue. Her characters, living and dead, jump off the page in this Orlando based police procedural which features a hearing-impaired female police detective, her teacher husband, and their too bright for her years five-year-old daughter. It’s always a pleasure to see what Minka and her pals get themselves into—then watch to see how they work their way out. This is a fun story from a fun series!

 

On a scale of 1-5, Undercover Babymoon merits a 6.

 

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Dangerous Descent by Evie Jacobs

 When an undercover agent and his sexy co-pilot find themselves on a plane willed with mobsters, there’s no room for mistakes.

 About the Book: Pilot Elise Hughes ran from her Florida Keys home to Denver after her father’s fatal plane crash revealed his dark secrets and illegal dealings. Struggling to reconcile the man she believed him to be with the man he actually was has tainted her memories and strained her relationship with her brothers. Now just when she’s settled into the drama-free, comfortable routine of her new life, an unfamiliar airline captain joins her route, stirring unwanted feelings of attraction.

Former combat-pilot-turned FBI agent Eric Erickson secretly burns for retribution against the mobster whom he blames for his father’s death. He poses as a pilot to discover why the mobster and his son are making regular flights from New Jersey to Denver. Not only does the undercover assignment put Eric within striking distance of the gangsters, but Elise, his beautiful copilot, who becomes a distraction he can’t afford.

 Our Review: This is more than your basic romantic suspense with two deserving people fighting the bad guys. It’s a story of a woman trying to prove herself after what’s left of her family turns its back on her. She gets up every day, intending to prove her worth to the world and herself—as well as her dead father, who may or may not have been a crime boss—and brothers who may or may not have aided and abetted him. This undercover agent only gums up the works as far as she’s concerned. When he returns her feelings, things only get more dangerous—for both of them.

 On a scale of 1-5, Dangerous Descent merits a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

The Good McCoy Lad

Sometimes a person can be too well behaved.  

About the Book:  Colin McCoy is the good son, the one who's spent most of his life living down the reputation of his womanizing brother Padraig left behind after he was exiled from the family home in Tipperary Ireland.

    When he meets smart and beautiful Fiona Leary, daughter of his father's titled employer, Colin immediately falls in love and all good sense flies out the window. He'll court her properly, of course. What else is there for a good boy to do?

    No one is aware of Colin's secret longings. How long will it be before the good McCoy lad follows in his big brother's scandalous footsteps?  

Our Review: Whether it’s set on a far-off planet, a Louisiana plantation, or the remote Carpathian mountains, no one writes a family saga better than Toni v. Sweeney. Colin, the dutiful and respectful son, longs for adventure—and for somewhere other than County Tipperary. His devoted Fiona helps him in those longings; together they create their own adventures in their own ways.

We look forward to the next in the McCoy family saga—this one set in post Civil War America—to see how Colin achieves his dreams as well as learning how the long-absent Padraig has turned his life around.

On a scale of 1-5, The Good McCoy Lad deserves a 5.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

The Case of the Filthy Beast

 Two best friends hunt for clues in a werewolf attack, only to find the monster is closer than they think. 

 About the Book:  Nurse Lexi Burns’ perfect life quickly unravels after the mysterious death of a young girl. Unconvinced by the official story, and ignoring warnings by local police, Lexi and her best friend, Zelda, embark on a hunt for the truth. Facing danger, betrayal, and a shocking revelation, they risk everything to expose a killer lurking in their midst.

 Our Review: Two women, best friends almost from the womb, fight the prevailing system of male supremacy, chauvinism and other testosterone riddled ‘way of things’—often to their despair and disappointment. That does not stop them, however. Lexi is a strong woman, fed up with her lot in life, and ready to speak her truth, not only for herself and her peers but for a dead teenager. Zelda, an absolute hoot of a high school English teacher, fits the role of lead egger-on like she was born to it. The tragedy of the death of a young woman who had everything good in her future is not lost on the zany turns the story occasionally takes. Lexi and Zelda fight the system to bring a measure of closure for the family—as well as the townspeople who give new meaning to the phrase, go along to get along. Author Karmazin may be new to the publishing game but she is someone to watch. Her talent and spunk will serve her well.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, The Case of the Filthy Beast merits a 6.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

The Convent House

 About the Book: After uncontrollable electric surges plague twenty-four-old-year-old Alexandra Ryan, the arrival of an unknown relative seems like the answer to her problems. But her new family in Newport is not what she expected. They claim to be members of a Clan descended from the Knights Templar. Gifted with psychic skills, they’re tasked to watch over the Convent House and guard against the evil within. As Alex tries to accept that her own powers will appear on her upcoming birthday, an evil sorcerer targets her dreams. The only person who can help is a handsome but aggravating Clan member.

 Our Review:  Debut author Margo Carey brings detailed research into the legend of the Knights Templar to this paranormal thriller set in historic Newport, Rhode Island. Adding to the suspense are the various members of the Watcher Clan, their quirks, foibles and ‘talents’. This is a fast-moving story of suspense, murder and the paranormal. We look forward to seeing what will come next from this talented author.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, The Convent House, merits a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Love Means No Regrets

 The last thing he wants is a wife. . .

About The Book:  Donal McCoy is a rake, but a secret one, his public appearance impeccable. He’s welcomed at Almack’s—but is also well-received at the most infamous bawdy house in London. As far as Donal’s concerned, what he does in private is his own affair, as long as no one other than his best friend knows of it.

A letter from his father drops a bombshell into Donal’s well-hidden, but orderly, life. Quinton McCoy wants a grandchild to carry on the McCoy name and orders his son to find himself a bride. Donal doesn’t want a wife. Marriage will spoil his fun. Reluctantly, he schemes to obey his father while retaining his freedom.

 

         Unfortunately, love gets in the way.

Our Review: Once again author Toni V. Sweeney treats her legion of fans with characteristic wry humor, snappy dialogue and impeccable research into the era—from clothing styles to social mores to medical care. This is a brilliant kick-off for The McCoys and what looks to be a pip of a family saga. Very well done!

On a scale of 1-5, Love Means No Regrets deserves a 7.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Redemption on the Run

 To find redemption, one must survive the sin.

About Redemption on the Run: The day Remi Shaw runs into her old flame, she never would have imagined he’d be the undercover agent assigned to take down the drug cartel she’s infiltrating in a desperate bid to find her missing nephew. Amid a dangerous drug pin’s liar, she is not only tasked with keeping their past hidden but finds herself battling the smoldering desire she still has for a man she walked out on thirteen years ago.

DEA agent, Lucas Kade can’t believe the woman he once loved is the fiancée of the very drug lord he plans to arrest. But when his cover is blown, and Remi sacrifices everything to save him, they will not only uncover a shocking plot to set them up for murder, but they will be forced to confront the heart wrenching scandal that tore them apart in the first place. 

Our Review: Using a talent for creating non-stop action and breath stealing suspense, author Donnette Smith keeps the reader turning the pages in her latest romantic suspense. Each character, from lead to secondary, are vividly drawn and will capture your imagination. With their heart-breaking history, we found ourselves rooting for Remi and Lucas from the first page till the very end. Well done!

Based on a scale of 1-5, Redemption on the Run deserves a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Murder Richly Deserved

 The elegance of To Catch a Thief meets of daring of Ocean’s 8.

 About the Book: Targeted and groomed by a charming, sophisticated trafficker in stolen cultural treasures, Chloe Duval, financial advisor by day, cat burglar by night, sets out to acquire the Queen of Persia diamond. In a world of opulent wealth, friendship among thieves, greed and duplicity, no one is quite who they seem. Even a quiet stroll down a Parisian street can turn deadly.

Our Review: smart, flashy and daring Chloe knows no fear as she dances down the streets of Paris while working at a dull as dirt day job—but at night, puts on her second story thief hat and things take off.

Conflict abounds between Chloe and a variety of nemeses beginning with the trafficker of stolen treasures, to her partners in crime, to the cops who will stop at nothing to send her away. One roadblock after another crop up, yet Chloe persists. All this while an oboe plays the theme to Mission Impossible.

 On a scale of 1-5, Murder Richly Deserved merits an 8.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Omaha to Ogallala

 Plan a birthday celebration, invite the family, watch what happens

 About The Book: Two sisters, Holly and Terry, plan a 40^th birthday celebration for Holly’s daughter, then invite extended family members to join them. The Wise Woman Summit, is a carefully planned seven-day excursion from Omaha to Ogallala. Along the way, through tears and trials, last minute goof-ups and surprises, the women come to know each other in new and interesting ways.

 Our Review: Ahhh. . . family dynamics. Sometimes strong and everlasting, at others torturous and divergent. Throw in an eclectic collection of females of varying ages and life experiences and you end up with unvoiced feelings, fears and deep-seated conflicts. This is a story of hopes, dreams and expectations—sometimes achieved, at other times not. Terry Korth Fischer’s fluid prose keeps the pages turning in this intriguing memoir of remembrance of family passed and living. As she has already proved in her Rory Naysmith Mystery series, the descriptions are colorful, wry and gut-busting funny. Do not miss Uncle Bob and his dogs, Buzzy and Dink. They are a trio to remember.

 On a scale of 1-5, Omaha to Ogallala merits a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Those Ties That Bind by Kim Janine Ligon

 About the Book: Something is seriously wrong at the Garland Regional Hospital when, instead of delivering healthy babies for adoption at The Obstetrical Center, teenage mothers are admitted to the ER, close to death and beyond resuscitation. 

          Hospital CEO Evelyn Langford's efforts to investigate the problem are hampered by her complicated relationship with her secretive brother, Frank, a few of her hospital subordinates, and, surprisingly, FBI Special Agent Rance Thompson. A new acquaintance whom she met while on vacation, he has come to town to investigate potential links between the perinatal deaths and a string of missing teenage girls.

          Frank’s increasingly erratic behavior, along with the growing attraction between Evelyn and the younger agent, only complicate the search into reasons behind the deaths of too many young women—and time is running out for other ‘clients’ still living at The Center.

Our Review: Pregnant or newly delivered teens are dying at an adoption mill known as The Center. Facts surrounding the teens and their care are few as well as murky. So starts an adventure into human trafficking, illicit baby selling and medical malpractice which borders on homicide.

          Flavor all that with a late in life romance between a plucky hospital CEO and an FBI secret agent man and you’ve got yourself with a winner of a story.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Those Ties That Bind merits a 4.5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Gone Crazy by Terry Korth Fischer

 Revealing secrets which small towns long to keep can be murderous.

 About the Book: A formal declaration of love scares the bejesus out of small-town Detective Rory Naysmith. As Valentine’s Day approaches, he evaluates his relationship with bookkeeper Esther Mullins, and decides to take her on a romantic date that ends with a poet’s murder. Assigned to the case, Rory pushes his private life aside. Things gets tricky after Esther is appointed Executrix for the estate—then rumors start that place a priceless item among the poet’s many possessions.

     The race is on to unearth the treasure and solve the murder, but it leaves Rory wondering if Esther will live long enough to become his Valentine—or end up as the murderer’s next victim. 

 Our Review: The author’s use of wry humor on the part of laconic police detective Rory Naysmith adds to the quirky cast of characters populating this unique Nebraskan community. To her credit, Korth Fischer has infused Native American customs and traditions, as well as tribal beliefs into the sub plot—making this third in the Rory Naysmith mystery series a true jewel in crime fiction. Well done!!

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Gone Crazy merits a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Waltz on the Big Meadow

 Widowed laundress gets a second chance at life and love.

 About the Book:  It's 1897, and Irene, an abandoned wife and mother with a rebellious teenage daughter, faces the dilemma of every single woman at the turn of the century: how to earn enough money for her meager existence while maintaining respectability. The gossips say her laundry business is a sham because she counts among her customers the women who ply their trade at the town’s bordello as well as the men from the local logging camp. After she takes in a border—Elias, a married doctor who arrives without his bride—wagging tongues go to work overtime.

The romance between Irene and Elias, fraught with obstacles and heartache, will never come to fruition unless each learns to look beyond the past in order to forge a future.

 Our Review: With a gift for non-stop action, author Bell hits all the high notes with this second chance at love story. She brings a dreary Western town to life with spot-on dialogue and patois of the turn of the century social mores and customs. The myriad characters jump off the page which only adds to the obstacles against Irene and Elias as they battle day in and say out to find a semblance of happiness. This book is a winner on many levels.

 On a scale of 1-5, Waltz on the Big Meadow merits a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Sunset Ledge by Darlene Deluca

 Can a seasoned traveler from the city thaw the numb heart of a reclusive Texas widower?

About the Book: Jack Armstrong lives like a recluse on his Texas ranch. In the difficult years after his wife’s death, he goes through the motions of life and wants to be left alone.

          Caroline Tate, a widowed ecology professor, arrives at the ranch for a much-needed break and to take nature photos for her sabbatical project. But relaxing is a challenge when she finds herself at odds with the curmudgeonly cowboy who owns the place.

Jack generally steers clear of the guests, but this time, it’s not so easy. Vivacious Caroline doesn’t fade into the background. This city gal comes with pearls around her neck, a big red flower on her floppy hat, and way too many questions. Her self-assured, adventurous spirit gets under Jack’s skin, and she soon stirs feelings long dormant inside him.

 Our Review: Author Deluca has entertained us with her talents for creating interesting characters in previous books. This time, she has surpassed her story telling ability. Sunset Ledge is sweet, contemporary story featuring older characters who speak their own truth—and it’s a winner all the way around. The goals of both are clear; their motivation is logical and compelling, and the conflict hits all the right buttons—wrapped up in one neat package. Newby authors can learn much from this experienced and most talented writer.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Sunset Ledge merits an 8.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Authors

 

Framed for Murder

 About The Book: After a life-changing injury, Mel O’Rourke trades in her badge for bed sheets, running a B&B in the quirky mountain town of Pine Cove. Her peaceful life is interrupted when an old frenemy, the notorious and charismatic cat burglar, Poppy Phillips, shows up on Mel’s doorstep, claiming she’s been framed for murder. While she’s broken plenty of laws, Mel knows Poppy would never kill anyone. Good thing Mel’s a better detective than she is a cook as she’s out to prove Poppy’s innocence. 

 Our Review: Author White is known for infusing fun, snappy dialogue into her work and with Framed for Murder, she does not disappoint her readers. The many secondary characters are unique and individualized right down to their choices in clothing and dialogue. Adding to the fun is the back-and-forth attraction between Mel, the B&B owner and the local hunky- baker with the beefcake sheriff’s deputy kept us guessing till the quite unexpected ending. Well done!

 On a scale of 1-5, Framed for Murder deserves a 5.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

Flowers of Tartarus by Michele Leech

 How about a deal?

About the Book: When her client is found dead of an overdose of a new and dangerous drug, PI Lily Nehme tracks the drug back to Tartarus, a popular nightclub run by Sebastian Galani. Under the guise of their new bartender, Lily infiltrates the club to find the dealer responsible. But as she spends time with the employees of Tartarus, Lily starts to fall for their lifestyle...and the reclusive owner. Her mission becomes secondary as she finds that there's more to Sebastian than meets the eye—and that he just might be the dealer she's looking for.

Our Review: In her earlier work of suspense, Prosecution’s Protection, author Leech displayed a unique talent for using setting, snappy dialogue and compelling character background to add to the dark suspense and smoking hot sexual attraction between the characters. She has surpassed that effort with Flowers of Tartarus. As the pages turn—and they do with lightning speed—the reader roots for both Lily and Sebastian to uncover the source of the deadly drugs while resolving their conflicts and end up in each other’s arms, right where they belong! 

 Based on a scale of 1-5, Flowers of Tartarus merits a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Stone of Fear by Margaret Izard

 She’d give everything to keep his love. He’d chase her through time to save her soul.

About the Book:  Marie Murray, a spunky expert on spiritual buildings, jumps at the opportunity to renovate the chapel mosaic floor at Dunstaffnage Castle, where she falls hard for the dashing John MacArthur. From their first kiss, sparks fly.

     Believing her religious renovation creates magic, a fanatical priest kidnaps Marie. Obsessed with obtaining a powerful magic Stone of Iona, he drags her to 15th-century Scotland.

     With his love kidnapped, John must tackle his hereditary duty and locate a magic Fae stone while chasing his love across time. Her memories of their passion keep her sane. Fueled by his will to find her, John must get to Marie in time to save her soul.

Our Review: In Stone of Fear, author Izard shows her skill in building suspense. The action never stops in this page-turner of a paranormal romance. As well her talent for ‘showing’—as opposed to telling—a fanatic, what drives them to cause their behaviors, is remarkable. Fans of time travels will glom onto this one and put it on their Keeper Shelves.

Based on a scale of 1-5, Stone of Fear merits a 5.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

She Danced Anyway

 Elizabeth wants to work and dance in 1920s New York City. Will she avoid the trap of marriage and live the independent life she dreams of?

 About The Book: No one thinks Elizabeth Alter can manage independent living, and even she questions a future of eating only toast. She watches friends test society’s boundaries, desperate for similar courage to push back.

She loves dancing but the city’s harridans and preachers want promiscuous dancing, wild jazz, and skimpy dresses ended and send the police often.

In 1920s New York City, while working at the public library, Elizabeth befriends co-worker James, to whom she introduces the delight of dancing. James imagines a traditional future, while she dreams of dancing and living on her own.

After a violent altercation with her mother, Elizabeth flees to her grandmother. There, she meets George, a piano player, and embarks on a tumultuous flirtation. Caught in the crosshairs of society’s narrow expectations, will Elizabeth chase her dreams—or will her own heart conspire against her?

 

Our Review: For any author that first book is a momentous undertaking. Describing life in a previous century, showing the mores and customs of the day, then including the dreams of a forward-thinking young woman and how she goes about achieving those dreams makes it a bigger challenge. Elizabeth Alter could have been my grandmothers, my great aunts, or their peers. It’s important we do not forget what strides those women made so that we have options available to us and our daughters and granddaughters in the present. We see big things in store for J. J. Ranson.

On a scale of 1-5, She Danced Anyway deserves a 4.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

The Marriage Matrix

 Can a marriage-minded scientist be diverted from her goal by a handsome detective who wants her body?

 About the Book: Treating her search for a husband like one of her research projects, socially inept Dr. Wanda Walling creates a marriage matrix, listing the qualities she wants in a husband. All candidates will be evaluated by how many boxes are ticked off. Then she meets handsome Jack Pendleton, a police detective who excites and delights her—but meets none of her requirements. Plus, he has a phobia about marriage.

Enthralled by Wanda, Jack wants her any way he can get her. Even though he is appalled that she is hubby hunting, he still wants to bed her. Can he convince her to have a fling with him even though he fails to check off any boxes in her matrix?

 Our Review: Sparks soar in almost every direction after Wanda, the buttoned-up, anal retentive scientist meets Jack, the hunky copper. His good humor and sharp wit continue to light up every scene he’s in. Readers continue to root that Jack, a talented and deserving guy, as he pursues this woman who speaks to everything he’s ever wanted.

On a scale of 1-5, The Marriage Matrix earns a 4.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

 

 

 

 

The Night Watcher by M. Garnet

 Take the best chrome handgun, put it in the hands of a man who isn’t afraid to use it—and you have a combination that puts fear into the hearts of criminals.

About the Book:  He earned his gold detective’s shield the hard way: in a uniform by day, in school at night. Now the tall man who carries weapon that’s not standard, but can shoot through a car door, has a record of closing more cases with some of the toughest criminals on the streets.

The ladies working in the sex clubs love him and offer him free services. The top brass worries that most of his cases are closed with the perps dead, so there’s no need for court appearances. So far, no one’s proved he’s crossed any line. He’s even found a woman who has worked her way into his cold heart.

But she’s also deep into family corruption. Will his luck hold out?

Our Review: Written in the style of Mickey Spillane’s film noir style of the 1950’s, author Garnet takes the reader on a fast, wild ride through the dark side of town, one familiar to Detective Damian Walker. With crisp, no nonsense dialogue and prose, fans of the genre will love this one.

 Based on a scale of 1-5, The Night Watcher merits a 4.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

A Flame Rekindled

 To forge their future, they must overcome their past.

About the Book: As second-in-command of a special ops paramilitary group, Jackson Favre is left in charge after his chief leaves on a secret mission. No novice when it comes to heavy action, Jackson is thrown for a loop when he discovers the love of his life, Charlene Bowman, standing in his office.

Supposedly dead, sharpshooter and computer whiz Charlene Bowman emerges from hiding to protect the unit chief’s researcher wife while he is away. The rekindled emotion on seeing Jackson again is the one thing she never expected. The ride to forever is a wild one.

Our Review:  Author Timidaiski has published in several genres but the one she excels in is alpha males involved in special ops missions. She knows how to keep up the pace and tension that goes hand in hand with military action. A Flame Rekindled is no different, and perhaps is her best yet.

Based on a scale of 1-5, A Flame Rekindled merits a 6.

Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews

Mr. Morrissey's Secret

 It’s all just a little unfair. . .

 About The Book: David Morrissey’s life is near perfect. A widower with a teenage daughter, he teaches at an ultra-conservative Southern preparatory school, has been voted Teacher of the Year 3 times, and is engaged to marry the daughter of the chairman of the school’s board.

          Then life as David knows it comes to a screeching halt when proof of his previous employment takes top headline in the school newspaper: 20 years ago, under another name, David Morrissey was the hottest ticket in town for cover models on historical romances known as “bodice rippers”.

          In short order he loses his job, his fiancée and his front lawn now hosts herds of TV and print reporters, as well as camera persons ever at the ready to pounce. As David prepares to fight for his job and his reputation, the woman on the other side of those hot clinch covers, a woman he once loved to distraction, comes back into his life. . . to help him in his time of need—but also to reveal a bigger, more important secret.

 Our Review: It’s always a treat to read anything by Toni V. Sweeney whether it’s a futuristic sci-fi space adventure or a vampire saga spanning generations and continents. This time it’s the staid traditions of Southern academia and those appointed to maintain the status quo. Using her trademark snappy humor, Sweeney’s well drawn characters keep the action at a non-stop pace with laugh-out-loud crisp dialogue. Do not miss this one; it’s a beauty.

 On a scale of 1-5, Mr. Morrissey’s Secret deserves a 7.

 Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews