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Press Reviews

Press Reviews     Read the press reviews for some recent Avalon Books releases. Chocolate Secrets by Zelda Benjamin Stargazer by Amanda Harte In the Dismal Swamp by Patrick Balester Grave Justice by Glen Ebisch Death in the French Quarter by Kent Conwell To Trust by Carolyn Brown Miss Quinn’s Quandary by Carolyn Hughey Everything But a Groom by Holly Jacobs Means to an End by Michael Hachey The Swamps of Bayou Teche by Kent Conwell Evening Star by Carolyn Brown Guns Along The Brazos by Owen G. Irons Cupid’s Web by Carolyn Hughey Honeymoon Husband by Shirley Marks The Honorable Marksley by Sherry Lynn Ferguson Sweet Tilly by Carolyn Brown Encounter by Deadline by Mel Taylor Dream Weaver by Amanda Harte Tortillas and Second Chances by Sylvia Renfro Candy Kisses by Jean C. Gordon Morning Glory by Carolyn Brown The First Shall Be Last by Joyce and Jim Lavene Adieu, My Love by Lynn M. Turner Atascocita Gold by Kent Conwell Dolphin Dreams by Annette Mahon The Right Chord by Elisabeth Rose Advertising Murder by Robert Scott The Brass Ring by Amanda Harte Laugh Lines by Holly Jacobs Christmas in Carol by Sheila Robins Kubiak's Daughter by Stephen Lindley Promises by Carolyn Brown A Dark Trail Winding by Pete Peterson Grim Finale by Dorothy P. O'Neill Painted Ponies by Amanda Harte Spin Control by Holly O’Dell Love, Julie by Christine Bush Extracurricular Murder by Kent Conwell The Lovin’ Kind by Nancy J. Parra The Write Match by Margaret Carroll Shannon: The Road to Whiskey Creek by Charles E. Friend Pretty Maids All In A Row by Michelle Buckman and A.H. Jackson All Things Slip Away by Kathryn Meyer Griffith Scraps of Paper by Kathryn Meyer Griffith Superior Death by Matthew Williams Night Calls by Holly Jacobs The Secret Wish by Annette Mahon The Ying On Triad by Kent Conwell Blood Debt by S.J. Stewart ’Tis the Season by Kathryn Quick Absolution by Carolyn Brown Palo Duro Shootout by Kent Conwell Final Note by Dorothy P. O’Neill Stone Fish by Olivia Ferrell The Bettin’ Kind by Nancy J. Parra Cruising for Love by Tami Cowden Bluebonnet Spring by Amanda Harte Before the Last Lap by Joyce and Jim Lavene Lovehandles by Holly Jacobs Next of Kin by Ami Elizabeth Reeves Choices by Carolyn Brown Poppy’s Place by Sylvia Renfro Vicksburg by Kent Conwell Pickup Lines by Holly Jacobs Turn of Fortune by Vicky Hunnings Last One Down by Joyce and Jim Lavene The Marryin’ Kind by Nancy J. Parra Falling for You by Kathryn Quick Miss Dempsey’s School for Gunslingers by I.J. Parnham A Matter of Motive by Michael Hachey Love on the Air by Sierra Donovan Laughing at the Thunder by Amanda Harte Augusta by Carolyn Brown Negotiating Love by Roni Denholtz Smoke Cover by Dorothy P. O’Neill Garnet by Carolyn Brown Gypsy by Carolyn Brown Mr. Perfect by Shelagh McEachern Skeletons of The Atchafalaya by Kent Conwell Velvet by Carolyn Brown Whistling in the Dark by Amanda Harte Loving Lana by Nancy J. Parra Willow by Carolyn Brown A Catered Affair by Carolyn Matkowsky Somebody to Love by Roni Denholtz Silver Creek by A.H. Holt A Wanted Man by Nancy J. Parra A Taste of Death by Mary Ellen Hughes Maggie’s Mistake by Carolyn Brown The Mad Herringtons by Jane Myers Perrine Emma’s Folly by Carolyn Brown Until Our Last Embrace by Joyce and Jim Lavene The Marshal’s Destiny by C. H. Admirand A Deadly Change of Power by Gina Cresse A Deadly Change of Heart by Gina Cresse A Golden Trail Of Murder by John Paxson Chocolate Secrets by Zelda Benjamin AN AVALON ROMANCE “They’re not exactly the Hatfields and McCoys, but the Martinellis and Simones have been feuding ever since Sal Simone stole the secret chocolate recipe from Alex Martinelli’s grandfather. Her whole life, Alex has heard how Grandpa Max’s best friend, Sal, betrayed him. Despite all those years of having it drilled into her that the only good Simone is a dead one, Alex begins to fall for firefighter Mike Simone after he saves her grandfather from a cooking fire. Instead of gratitude, stubborn old Max clings to his anti-Simone ways. Mike’s fellow firefighters, on the other hand, believe that a match between Alex and Mike is just the thing both of them need, and they begin to coach Mike on fail-proof wooing techniques, including using a daily horoscope to predict Alex’s moods. Endearing characters—from the matchmaking firefighters to the young, colorful assistant candy maker—provide a nice balance to the grumpy gramps. Benjamin’s romance is sure to charm readers.” — Shelley Mosley, Booklist, April 1, 2008 Find out more about this book. Stargazer by Amanda Harte AN AVALON ROMANCE “For Julie Unger, the job could not have come at a better time, for now she can leave Calena and her bitter divorce behind to do something she loves: restore an antique carousel. When Julie arrives at Hidden Falls, almost everyone is delighted to welcome her to the small town, including handsome chief of police Dan Harrod. But Julie doesn’t think she has time for anything other than her new job until she meets Rick Swanson, the architect who helped renovate the studio where she now works. When Julie discovers that both Rick and his son, Josh, are still grieving over the loss of Rick’s wife, Julie wants nothing more than to help, and in doing so, she finds a way to deal with her own sorrow. In the latest addition to her Hidden Falls series, Harte skillfully uses the healing power of love to create a richly emotional and sweetly charming contemporary romance.” — John Charles, Booklist, April 1, 2008 Find out more about this book. In the Dismal Swamp by Patrick Balester  -- ADVANCE REVIEW AN AVALON MYSTERY “Greg Parnell imagined his new assignment as a field agent for the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife would be laid-back, even boring, which would be just fine by him. But when the body of an activist and wife of a local politician washes up in the Virginia swamp over which he has jurisdiction, Greg’s adrenaline starts running again. Why are all the locals so quick to dismiss her death as an accident?” “Greg senses there’s more to it than that and finds an unlikely helper in FBI agent Dan Brennan. Their investigation rubs the townsfolk the wrong way, but that’s not enough to keep the young Yankee (Greg) and the cocky fed (Dan) from digging. Even when the local officials concede that a murder took place, they jump too quickly to make an arrest, leaving Greg to solve the crime on his own, making more enemies along the way. Believable dialogue, an engaging hero in the manner of C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett, and lots of Virginia backcountry ambience suggest a strong series in the offing from this talented first novelist.” — Wes Lukowsky, Booklist, October 15, 2007 Grave Justice by Glen Ebisch AN AVALON MYSTERY “In the second in a series, after The Crying Girl (2007), featuring Amanda Vickers and Marcie Ducasse, the inquisitive editors of Roaming New England Magazine, Ebisch’s journalist sleuths have found their way into another real-life mystery. In West Windham to cover a possible lake monster story, Amanda and her friend Nick are invited to a séance meant to contact the spirit of a prominent businessman’s murdered wife in the hope that her spirit can identify the culprit. Surprisingly enough, a clue is given, thus setting the wheels in motion for more death and the unearthing of secrets. Ebisch is fun to read even though Amanda and Marcie don’t exactly stand out as strong leading ladies. Happily, some of the secondary characters, especially Ben (the cemetery groundskeeper) and the medium, counter this and offer charming, entertaining moments. With a fan-favorite plot and satisfying comeuppances, Ebisch offers up a solid helping of American cozy fare, and readers will look forward to the next mysterious take from New England.” — Nina C. Davis, Booklist, April 1, 2008 “In Ebisch’s second mystery to feature Roaming New England Magazine reporters Amanda Vickers and Marcie Ducasse (after The Crying Girl), the two women are in West Windham, ME, investigating a sighting of the Lake Opal Monster. Then, they attend a séance arranged by a wealthy businessman wanting to find out who killed his wife, and the medium announces that the identity of the murderer lies with his widow in her coffin. Ebisch keeps both plots on track in this fine mystery that will capture most readers’ imaginations.” — Library Journal, April 1, 2008 Find out more about this book. Death in the French Quarter by Kent Conwell AN AVALON MYSTERY “Austin, Texas, private investigator Tony Boudreaux isn't at all fond of his native Louisiana. The cases that take him across Texas' eastern border are almost always dangerous and barely survivable (The Swamps of Bayou Teche, 2007). This time a childhood friend asks him to clear her brother of the murder charges that put him in prison, where he died. Why waste time and money clearing a dead man? It's only when Tony discovers a connection between his client's brother and the murder of Tony's cousin a few months earlier that he develops an enthusiasm for the case. The only clue he has is a shady Austin import business that employed both men and subsequently shut down in the dead of night. The business owners retreated--of course--into New Orleans' complex and dangerous smuggling industry. Eventually, Tony ingratiates himself with the smugglers and goes undercover with them. It's a dangerous game, but Tony is motivated by loyalty to family and friends. The eighth Boudreaux mystery is a pleasantly grisly sojourn into the Crescent City's corrupt underbelly. This is an unpretentious, no-frills, highly entertaining series.” — Wes Lukowsky, Booklist, December 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. To Trust by Carolyn Brown AN AVALON ROMANCE “Dee Hooper was so anxious to escape Buckhorn Corner, Oklahoma, that she eloped with the first man to propose, but seven miserable years later she has sworn off men for good and returned home to the big old house populated by four generations of Hooper women. Boy-next-door Jack, now working in his late grandparents' convenience store and living in a dilapidated trailer, is glad to see her but understandably cautious about trusting her with his heart again. The tone of Brown's newest contemporary romance series is more acerbic than sassy, and the characters exhibit a much more insular outlook than her usual good-natured constructs, but the down-home setting and extended family relationships do entertain.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, December 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Miss Quinn's Quandary by Shirley Marks AN AVALON ROMANCE “One impulsive act could change Larissa Quinn's life forever. On the way to live with her aged aunt in the country, she claims to be the wife of a stranger to secure the last room at the inn. She is sure she'll never see involuntary husband Sir Randall Trent again. She doesn't know her aunt has plans for Larissa to attend the London social season, where she and Randall will be forced together when her lie resurfaces. Marks, the author of Geek to Chic (2006) and Honeymoon Husband (2007), tries out historical romance with this novel set in Regency England. Her chick-lit readers may be turned off by the premise, but Marks mingles modern sensibilities with the traditional setting. The romance that blooms between Larissa and Randall is predictable yet pleasing. A promising mystery element unfolds haphazardly but may provide some additional appeal for readers who like both romance and suspense.” — Booklist, November 14, 2007 “This charming if uneven Edwardian from Marks (Geek to Chic) opens as Miss Larissa Quinn completes her education and journeys to Westmoreland estate to become the companion to an aunt she doesn't know. She resolves, however, to have one adventure before resigning herself to her fate. On arriving at an inn, Larissa, spys a handsome gentleman, and claims that the two are newlyweds in order to secure the last remaining room. Once settled, it takes a little convincing to get the man, Sir Randall Trent, to go on with the charade. After a chaste night, the two board the coach assuming that no one will be the wiser and that they will never meet again. But Larissa's very undoddering aunt eschews dull country life for the London season, and when Larissa and Sir Randall inevitably meet, their "marriage" slips out of their control-leading to unpleasant and possibly deadly consequences. The lovers don't quite come into focus and often seem not to know whether to fight or kiss, but the inventive plot carries them along with sweet abandon.” — Publishers Weekly, October 22, 2007 Find out more about this book. Everything But a Groom by Holly Jacobs AN AVALON ROMANCE “Cursed! Yancy Bashalde didn’t mean to curse her children and grandchildren. When she cursed the man who didn't show up to marry her in Hungary, she meant to curse his children and grandchildren, so they would never enjoy a beautiful wedding. Unfortunately, she later married that same man, and suddenly, their descendants shared that curse. Holly Jacobs’ latest novel, Everything But a Groom, is a fun romance showing two people what it takes to make a marriage of love. “Yancy Salo ignored all of her grandmother’s stories, and had plans and counter plans for her beautiful wedding. What she didn’t plan on was her fiancé running off with a waitress. Suddenly Yancy is pursued by the media who smells a story about the bride who was cursed by her own grandmother. Her escape from the reporters led her straight to Matt Wilde, who has his own problems. “Wilde was quite happy building up his landscape business. He never expected to open his front door to find five-year-old twins, his brother’s sons, left on his doorstep. Yancy’s appearance in his life was a godsend since she seemed perfectly confident in handling two small boys. “Holly Jacobs has a knack for creating likable characters, from Yancy Salo and Matt Wilde to Yancy's grandmother, Nana Salo and Matt’s surprising stepmother. Fortunately for the reader, there are plans for two more books featuring Nana Salo’s descendants. Maybe there won’t be a big wedding in Nana’s future, but there’s bound to be romance. If Everything But a Groom is an example, it will be a fun, romantic story of two people who discover they need each other.” — Lesa Holstine, USA Today, December 27, 2007 “Although she doesn't believe in the wedding curse her Hungarian grandmother visited upon her family for three generations, Vancy Salo is taking every precaution to make sure her wedding goes off without a hitch. What she doesn't plan for is being stood up at the altar. Her family business is well known, and the story of the curse is too good for the media in Erie, Pennsylvania, to pass up. She's hounded by the press and in her agitated state she asks her landscaper to immediately remove all the special plantings he put in for the wedding. Matt Wilde has problems of his own. His young twin nephews, of whom he knew nothing, have been left on his doorstep, so he rushes to Vancy's with the boys in tow. She apologizes for her behavior, and they decide on a course of action: Vancy will stay at Matt's house to avoid the press and help him take care of his nephews. It seems too good to be true, and too good to pass up in Jacobs' very sweet tale of true love.” — Maria Hatton, Booklist, November 1, 2007 (starred review) Find out more about this book. Means to an End by Michael Hachey AN AVALON MYSTERY “Dexter Loomis (A Matter of Motive, 2004) is still interim police chief of Huggins Point, Wisconsin, even though he has been on the job for a year. When an investigative reporter dies in an automobile crash that was not an accident, he has a reason to reconnect with state homicide investigator Ann Summer. As they dig into the case, they find themselves skirting a federal investigation of the local Native American casino and its possible Mob ties as well as a burglary at the home of a famous artist. The artist may be tied to a murder that occurred 20 years earlier. When several people involved in the case die of poisoning, Dexter and Ann must find out why. Hachey manages to juggle several intriguing plot elements involving colorful characters while rekindling Dexter's romance with Ann. The rural setting adds charm to this agreeable mix of cozy and police procedural. Cozy fans who don't mind a little hard-boiled edge are the target audience.” — Barbara Bibel, Booklist, October 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. The Swamps of Bayou Teche by Kent Conwell AN AVALON MYSTERY “Dexter Loomis (A Matter of Motive, 2004) is still interim police chief of Huggins Point, Wisconsin, even though he has been on the job for a year. When an investigative reporter dies in an automobile crash that was not an accident, he has a reason to reconnect with state homicide investigator Ann Summer. As they dig into the case, they find themselves skirting a federal investigation of the local Native American casino and its possible Mob ties as well as a burglary at the home of a famous artist. The artist may be tied to a murder that occurred 20 years earlier. When several people involved in the case die of poisoning, Dexter and Ann must find out why. Hachey manages to juggle several intriguing plot elements involving colorful characters while rekindling Dexter's romance with Ann. The rural setting adds charm to this agreeable mix of cozy and police procedural. Cozy fans who don't mind a little hard-boiled edge are the target audience.” — Wes Lukowsky, Booklist, October 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Evening Star by Carolyn Brown AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE “Tucker Anderson just can't believe his bad luck - he's broken his leg, cut his hand, and been concussed by a fall from the roof; and his aggravating cousins Clara (Morning Glory, 2007) and Tilly (Sweet Tilly, 2007) have hired a female doctor to mollycoddle and boss him for the next six weeks! Tucker has strong views - which he has loudly voiced on numerous occasions - on a woman's plce, and having to rely on Addison Carter for his every need is downright galling. Naturally, Addison is somewhat outspoken herself as befits one of Brown's heroines, and sparks fly from the moment they meet. Brown satisfyingly concludes her entertaining small-town Oklahoma Drifters and Dreamers romance trilogy with another colorful tale full of the quirky characters, verbal sparring, humorous escapades and historical detail her readers love.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, October 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. Guns Along The Brazos by Owen G. Irons AN AVALON WESTERN “After two men gun Fred Jury down in his own home, his son, Ben, swears vengeance. As green as they come, Ben doesn't know exactly how he might go about tracking and facing the two killers, but his singleminded determination keeps him nipping at the men's heels, from a riverboat on the Mississippi to The Brazos River and the dust of Texas beyond. Along the way, Ben gets himself into all manner of unwarranted grief and soon finds his face staring back at him from a wanted poster. There are a few genuinely surprising twists and enough action to keep the story churning along, even as it morphs from a revenge tale to a quest of discovery as Ben learns the whole truth of his father's past and his long-lost mother. This will appeal to western fans who like their stories on the simpler, gentler side, or perhaps young greenhorns of the genre, but hardened cowpokes might best ride on past.” — Ian Chipman, Booklist, September 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. Cupid’s Web by Carolyn Hughey AN AVALON ROMANCE “Cassie Pirelli discovers that moving to New York City to escape her meddling, overbearing, Italian mother isn’t the answer to all of her problems. Yes, it does mean getting an apartment with her best friend, Megan O’Malley. And yes, it does mean a great new job at Merrill Finance Corporation. But family ties stretch far, and Cassie’s mother is bound and determined that her only daughter will meet a nice boy (preferably Italian), marry him, and have a bunch of grandbabies. “Cassie, who has already broken off one engagement, soon finds herself pursued by three men--her volatile boss; a guy at the office she likes as a friend; and last but not least, Sammy Scarliotti, a man hand-picked by her mother. Hughey has penned a brisk and entertaining romantic comedy, complete with a wise-cracking and endearing heroine.” — Shelley Mosley, Booklist, September 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Honeymoon Husband by Shirley Marks AN AVALON ROMANCE “En route to their contest -winning wedding and honeymoon in Hawaii, Hannah Roberts’ fiancé Earl ditches her with a note scribbled on a hamburger wrapper. Alone in paradise, not only does Hannah have to find a way to explain to the contest organizers that the groom-to-be has absconded, she also has to come to grips with losing her high school sweetheart, even if he is a jerk. The hotel’s resident astronomer may be just the distraction she needs. Soon Hannah, who’s never taken a risk in her life, has fallen headover heels for the adventurous stranger, and he, the consummate bachelor, may have finally found the one. This concise novel is snappy rather than steamy; they are no raunchy sex scenes or breathy dialogue, which will be a relief for some readers, while others may be disappointed. Marks is still finding her legs as a romance author, but she has the happy ending down pat.” — Aleksandra Kostovski, Booklist, September 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. The Honorable Marksley by Sherry Lynn Ferguson AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE “Hallie Ashton thought she was kissing Richard Marksley, publisher of the literary journal The Tantalus, but it turns out that Hallie shared a kiss with his cousin Reginald, the Viscount Langford. Now that she is socially compromised, Hallie’s family insists that Reggie marry her, but Reggie has conveniently disappeared leaving Richard to deal with the tricky situation. Richard knows that the honorable thing to do is to marry Hallie himself, yet he is reluctant to commit to a woman whom he has only just met. So Richard comes up with a compromise: he and Hallie will become engaged only long enough for Reggie to return. But Hallie has a secret that could end their engagement before it even begins. “Ferguson’s sweetly romantic, expertly crafted traditional Regency romance is an absolute delight.” — John Charles, Booklist, September 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Sweet Tilly by Carolyn Brown AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE “Matilda Jane Anderson was named after her grandmother’s two mules, and she’s every bit as stubborn as they were. When Sheriff Rayford Sloan tries to convince her it’s time to get out of the moonshine business, she digs in her heels and refuses to budge, leading him on a merry chase while conducting business right under his nose. But Ford is unwillingly attracted to her spirit and gumption, and although he’s sworn to uphold the law he’d rather be courting Tilly than arresting her. “Brown’s second Ozark-set Drifters & Dreamers historical romance takes place concurrently with the first (Morning Glory, 2006), exhibiting her trademark sassy dialog and colorful characters. As Brown brings an almost forgotten era to vivid life, she also explores social and legal issues prevalent at the time.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, September 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Encounter by Deadline by Mel Taylor AN AVALON MYSTERY ““Readers are treated to more of Taylor's good writing and sense of place. Taylor also keeps his gift for dialogue...an entertaining tale of crime and detection.”” — Jack Latona, Go Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, August 2007 Find out more about this book. Dream Weaver by Amanda Harte AN AVALON ROMANCE “Hidden Falls is a dying town. The population is dwindling, the buildings are dilapidated, and even the local high school is closing. Why then is John Moreland, CEO of JBM Enterprises, considering making his next real estate renovation project an old estate in Hidden Falls? John is sure he must be losing his mind, but the stately old house he spies for the first time feels like home. Maybe it's because Fairlawn is his family's ancestral home, and the Morelands were once the heart and soul of Hidden Falls. One hundred years ago, his family made a fortune from textiles, and their mill in Hidden Falls employed almost all the town's residents. But its heyday eventually passed, and now there's nothing to draw anybody to Hidden Falls. That is why John is envisioning converting Fairlawn into an exclusive hotel and spa for the very rich. His guests can come for a quick getaway and find everything they need at the resort. There will be no need to visit the surrounding town at all. “John's plan for Fairlawn, however, hits some snags when he meets some of the folk from Hidden Falls. Most notable is Claire Connors, a teacher at the local high school. She has made it clear that she wants John to do more than turn Fairlawn into a hotel. Her dream is for Hidden Falls to be brought back to life too, but that's not John's problem. Still, Claire has managed to get under his skin. She's beautiful and intelligent, and just like Fairlawn, John cannot seem to forget about either one. He should walk away from both because the last thing John wants is to become too attached to her or Hidden Falls. He's beginning to suspect, however, that it's too late for that. “Even though John has his doubts, Claire is certain that Hidden Falls is worth restoring to its former glory. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that she'll be able convince him to alter his plans. What's more, Claire is sure that the attraction she feels for John is mutual, but he seems to be just as unwilling to take a chance on her as he is with Hidden Falls, and she's not sure which is more heartbreaking, watching something she loves die, or never experiencing something that she knows could be wonderful. “DREAM WEAVER is the third Hidden Falls Romance, and it is a departure from the first two books, both of which took place around the turn of the century when Hidden Falls was at its peak and the Morelands were one of the three families that made up the town's high society. As this story opens, the Morelands, living elsewhere, are still fabulously rich and successful, but Hidden Falls has not faired as well. Having read the two previous books, it's rather sad to revisit the town and find it in such miserable shape. However, this new twist keeps the storyline original. And although the Moreland family is familiar to some of us, and we once again meet the residents of Hidden Falls, they are all fresh, new characters that all seem to possess their own kind of charm. John, in particular, is an alluring man. Not only does he enjoy wealth and looks, but he has charisma as well. But, not surprisingly, like so many men, Claire finds he has issues when it comes to trust and commitment. Still, the author does well to make the reader care for him, when it is Claire who garners so much sympathy. She's passionate in her zeal to save what she loves, and their romance often parallels the storyline about the restoration of Fairlawn, and ultimately the fate of Hidden Falls. With both, there are ups and downs, risks to take, and a lot of soul-searching involved. “In DREAM WEAVER, it is obvious that Hidden Falls and its residents are created with great fondness, and this loving attention produces a pleasant place to visit peopled with characters who ring true to life. Readers do not have to read the previous Hidden Falls Romances in order to enjoy DREAM WEAVER. It stands on its own as a sweet and gentle romance featuring likable characters.” — Sandra Brill, Romance Reviews Today, August 2007 Find out more about this book. Tortillas and Second Chances by Sylvia Renfro AN AVALON ROMANCE “Eight years ago Ray walked away from Celeste and their love. Now he’s back and wants to start over, but a reluctant Celeste knows that this time there is more at risk than just her heart. “Young and in love, bad boy Ray and good girl Celeste thought their relationship would last forever. But then Ray left town without notice or explanation, leaving Celeste devastated - and pregnant. Believing the worst of Ray, she never told him about their child. An arranged — and disastrous — marriage gave her daughter Mia a father, but soured Celeste on men when it ended. Her daughter is now seven, and Celeste has built a good life for the two of them despite her controlling father’s disapproval. “Years ago Ray let Celeste’s father’s lies send him packing. Ray left town determined to make something of his life, and his hard work has paid off in the multi-million dollar corporation he started. When Ray’s good friend and mentor Gus has a heart attack, Ray finally returns home and agrees to stay to run Gus’s boat shop while he recuperates. It only takes seeing Celeste once to realize she is the only woman he’s ever loved. Ray vows to win her back for good, and to do it without revealing his financial success, determined that Celeste love him for who he really is. “Celeste resolves to resist Ray’s charm, but her daughter has no such reservations. The child is enthralled with Ray, and the two seem to have formed a close bond in a short time. But Celeste is no longer an easily charmed, starry-eyed girl; she’s a woman conscious of what a relationship really means, and realizes just how much is at stake this time around. As the two inevitably become closer, Celeste and Ray hope that this time they can make their love last. Yet each still clings to their big secret, secrets that could destroy their romance for good. “TORTILLAS AND SECOND CHANCES is a sweet and tender story of a second chance at first love. Ray and Celeste’s lingering feelings are clear right from the start and rekindle steadily through the story, even with the tension of their big secrets. Their emotional growth and maturity over the past decade is deftly written, and makes their understanding and forgiveness of past hurts believable. This is a classic romance in a modern setting. Heartfelt, touching and romantic, it’s the kind of story that will make readers laugh and cry and then read the book all over again.” — Leigh Orlowski, Romance Junkies, July 2007 Find out more about this book. Candy Kisses by Jean C. Gordon AN AVALON ROMANCE “In the appealing, adorable Candy Kisses by Jean C. Gordon, Candy Price is burdened with a community of brothers who all think they know what’s best for her—and she’d love to prove them wrong, but first she needs to figure out what the right choice is. Stuck in Albany for the summer with only her landlord, the very handsome and cheerful Mike Wheeler, she decides to take on a challenge: She’s going to find Mike a new girlfriend and, in the meantime, they can share pointers on the dating scene. Candy is about to find out what love is all about, but first she has to learn how to stand up to the boss who takes advantage of her all the time and learn to let other people help her. Candy Kisses is an upbeat romance about two good people who need to make that love connection.” — Barbara Samuel, BookPage, July 2, 2007 Find out more about this book. Morning Glory by Carolyn Brown AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE “Jilted a decade ago, Clara Anderson buried her broken heart and bruised pride under a cloak of rigid adherence to routine and vehement opposition to change. But oil has been discovered under the cotton fields and cow pastures of sleepy little Healdton, Oklahoma, and when lanky, soft-spoken roustabout Briar Nelson rents a room in Clara’s boardinghouse, the Morning Glory, both experience an unwilling mutual attraction. Continued proximity results in Clara’s gradual progression from adolescent denial to a more mature attitude of acceptance with a concomitant sweetening of her disposition. Brown’s new Drifters & Dreamers series, set in 1917, introduces three cousins, the moonshine industry, and a new canvas for her folksy explorations of life and love at pivotal times in America.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, July 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. The First Shall Be Last by Joyce and Jim Lavene AN AVALON MYSTERY “Montgomery County, North Carolina, sheriff Sharyn Howard is determined to bring down Senator Jack Winter, the man she holds responsible for her father’s death as well as the corruption in her jurisdiction. She teams up with FBI agent Brewster in an elaborate scam that involves Sharyn breaking up with her beloved boyfriend, Montgomery County medical examiner Nick Thomopolis, in order to date Winter. In addition, she must find the hit-and-run driver who killed young mother Michelle Frey. Sharyn hates the subterfuge of being Winter’s girlfriend—a man despised by her family and friends—and she mourns the loss of her relationship with Nick, who doesn’t know the reason for their breakup. With interesting plotlines—will Sharyn be able to resolve the long-standing question of her father’s death?—this volume will be particularly satisfying to followers of the series. Others will find it an entertaining mix of small-town procedural and domestic drama.” — Booklist, June 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Adieu, My Love by Lynn M. Turner AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE -- STARRED & BOXED REVIEW -- “The hard-working widow Marie Jubert has survived the death of a husband, single parenthood, a siege, and life with an evil sibling, but it looks as though she might not get through her latest set of problems. The English schooner Donna Rae has been captured, and her crew imprisoned for smuggling. Unbeknownst to the good townspeople, the oh-so-respectable widow is a silent investor in the ship and relies on its smuggling operations to maintain her livelihood. Matthew Carter, one of the arrested sailors, also has a secret. However, once he's farmed out to Marie in a work-release program, he discovers that the widow also is not who she seems to be. The unusual time period, circa 1751, and venue, the French fortress of Louisburg, make for a refreshing historical romance. And tantalizing details, such as those of the cod industry in eighteenth-century Nova Scotia, add to the interest of the well-crafted story. Turner (Cutter’s Wake, 2002; Growing Attraction, 2001) has created a richly textured page-turner.” — Shelley Mosley, Booklist, May 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Atascocita Gold by Kent Conwell AN AVALON WESTERN “Cowboy drifters Josh Carson and Tiny Hamilton shoot up nearly everything in sight in this wild hayburner from prolific western writer Conwell. These two saddle bums wander into the town of Atascocita where they immediately get into trouble with local gunsels over a poker game. Saved from tar and feathers by the sheriff and an old couple who run a wagon freight outfit, Josh and Tiny find themselves in the middle of a range war with murderous tycoon Cullen Leach. On a freight hauling job, Josh and Tiny befriend a pretty young woman, Marylee Gaston, heir to a large ranch and guardian of two younger brothers after her older brothers are murdered by Leach’s men. Rumors of hidden gold on the Gaston Ranch has every owlhoot in the territory sniffing around, willing to kill for it. As Josh and Tiny try to protect the old couple and the Gaston Ranch, ambushes and gun battles whittle down both sides, with well-ventilated corpses sprawled all over the prairie. When the last fusillade of bullets finally slams home only one cowboy is left standing (barely) with the girl and the gold. This is a smart, meaty story with likeable characters, funny gags and some nifty surprises.” — Publishers Weekly, June 18, 2007   “Josh Carson and his buddy Tiny Hamilton get themselves in deep after Josh welshes on a poker bet to a group of unsavories who don't mind settling on a tar-and-feather-based repayment plan. The two drifters are rescued by Frenchy Buckalew, a matriarchal freight line owner who pays off their debt in return for their help operating her struggling business. The dastardly Cullen Leach will stop at nothing, including hiring a band of cutthroat Comancheros to run Frenchy out of business, and if they happen to uncover a rumored cache of gold double eagles in the meantime, all the better. Although Conwell’s western world displays no shades of gray and is populated by one-dimensional characters it’s easy to recognize the villains because they “sneer evilly.” Whatever he lacks in originality, he mostly makes up for with infectious gusto. For Saturday morning western fans who would rather have their heroes bonk the bad guys over the head and give them a stern talking-to than shoot them full of holes, and who expect a neat bow wrapping it all up come story's end.” — Ian Chipman, Booklist, May 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Dolphin Dreams by Annette Mahon AN AVALON ROMANCE “Concerned that the acquisition of the resort on Hawaii's Big Island by Donovan Enterprises might endanger the dolphin program where she works, marine behaviorist Jade Kanahele is totally unprepared to be so attracted to the magnetic Adam Donovan when he shows up on a reconnaissance mission - and the same goes for Adam. Is it simple biology, or could it be the heirloom quilt that Jade has just been given, which supposedly ensures that the recipient will be married within the year? Sexual tension shimmers between the protagonists in this sweet, heartwarming romance that is filled with the exotic but realistic flavor of the islands and is the first in the author’s “Matchmaker Quilt” trilogy. Mahon (The Secret Wish) writes gentle, beautifully descriptive Hawaii-set romances; she lives in Paradise Valley, AZ.” — Library Journal, April 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. The Right Chord by Elisabeth Rose AN AVALON ROMANCE “Grace has just been dumped. Did she lie, cheat, or steal? No, shes too nice. After a friend observes that Grace lets everyone walk all over her, Grace decides to toughen up. A violinist in Sydney, Australia, she dresses more professionally for the symphony, and if she has a problem with someone, she lets him know about it. So when a new neighbor, the famous science-fiction writer Harry Brimingham, moves in next door with his large dog, he meets no-nonsense Grace and isnt impressed because she reminds him of his strident ex-wife. Harry and Grace always seem to rube each other the wrong way. But Grace cant keep up the façade forever, and Harry gets glimpses of the real Grace. Even then, circumstances intervene with enough frequency that is seems that because the started off on the wrong foot, it will stay that way in Roses sweet and charming story.” — Maria Hatton, Booklist, April 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. Advertising Murder by Robert Scott AN AVALON MYSTERY “Jack Elton has been feeling like a nobody since he was booted off the Vancouver, British Columbia, police force, and trying to drum up business as a PI hasnt been easy in a town with relatively little crime. His boredom is soon abated when a young Asian woman turns up dead in the building of advertising firm Biggs, Wilberforce, Hutton, and Small. Brendan Biggs, one of the partners, calls Jack in to help with the investigation, even though Brendan becomes the prime suspect. Jacks first task is to ID the body, which takes him into Vancouvers large yet not overly welcoming Asian community. In this first novel, Scott, a pastor, renders characters with sensitivity, but the plot has some significant problems in terms of believability (Why, for instance, would a former cop with a sullied reputation be asked by police to help with a case?). With tighter plotting and more effort to use the distinctive Vancouver landscape, this series could develop into a keeper.” — Mary Frances Wilkens, Booklist, May 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. The Brass Ring by Amanda Harte AN AVALON HISTORICAL ROMANCE A Hidden Falls Romance “In this turn-of-the-century romance, Jane Moreland is newly returned home to Hidden Falls, NY, from a year in Switzerland, and she thinks nothing can keep her and longtime love Matt Wagner apart. But she soon realizes that the enduring antagonism between her wealthy mill-owning brother and Matt, now a lawyer representing the mill works, could keep her and Matt from catching happiness's fabled brass ring. Sweetly romantic and rife with solid historical detail and empathetic characters, this is the latest in Harte's "Hidden Falls Romance" series (Painted Ponies). She lives In Cheyenne, WY.” — Kristin Ramsdell, Library Journal, February 15, 2007 A Hidden Falls Romance “Jane Moreland arrives back in Hidden Falls after a year in Switzerland only to discover that Matt Wagner is also back in town. Several years earlier, a blossoming romance between Jane and Matt was crushed by Jane's family, who didn't think Matt was suitable husband material. A freshly minted attorney, he has now returned home to establish his own practice and win back his one true love. But once again, Jane's family threatens to ruin everything. Harte continues her refreshingly different Hidden Falls historical romance series, which began with Jane's sister Anne's story in Painted Ponies (2006), with a sweetly romantic tale of two people who will not let family, or business, get in the way of their second chance at love.” — John Charles, Booklist, February 1, 2007 Find out more about this book. Laugh Lines by Holly Jacobs AN AVALON ROMANCE A WLVH Radio Romance “LAUGH LINES is the fourth book in "A WLVH Radio Romance" series and grabs your attention right from page one. Dani Sinclair has moved home to Erie, PA and has taken a new job as CEO at Hamlin Texts. As the story begins, she is being watched by a killer mutant bug that she knows is waiting to chomp her. Mustering up courage, she jumps off the toilet seat and lands on the bug. To get away, she throws the toilet door open and catches a gorgeous man who fortunately is not injured. “Luke Miller, owner of the Chuckles comedy club, offers to give her a ride home as her car is disabled. He persuades her to try her hand at a standup routine at his club and the romance is off and running despite a few prat falls and a few rotten tomatoes. “If you enjoyed the first three books in this series, you'll simply have to read this one. Holly Jacobs gets better and better with each new book.” — Robert Gross, Round Table Reviews, February 2007 “Dani Sinclair is the new CEO of a textbook-publishing company, but she'd rather be an actress or a stand-up comic. So when she literally knocks Luke Miller down and then discovers that he owns a comedy club in Erie, Pennsylvania, her hometown, to which she has just returned, he appeals to her on several levels. Luke, however, blows hot and cold. Readers into Jacobs' WLVH romantic comedies (Night Calls, 2006; Lovehandles, 2005) will enjoy this one, although some readers may resist the numerous coincidences and somewhat unrealistic behavior.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, February 15, 2007 Find out more about this book. Christmas in Carol by Sheila Robins AN AVALON ROMANCE “The last place New York advertising planner Andie Hartwell wants to spend Christmas is with her crazy family in Carol, WA. Yet when her mother insists, Andie heads home for one of the worst—and ultimately one of the best—Christmases of her life. A bratty kid sister, a ditsy aunt, divorced parents who are behaving like children, an odd assortment of friends and other relatives, a barracuda boss, and a hunky ex-boyfriend who wants her back set the mood for a wacky Christmas that unexpectedly changes the course of Andie’s life. Sometimes silly and often hilarious, this lighthearted romp has homespun values at its core and will appeal to fans of Debbie Macomber. Robins has written several romances as Sheila Rabe; she lives in Washington State.” — Library Journal, December 2006 Find out more about this book. Kubiak's Daughter by Stephen Lindley AN AVALON MYSTERY “Ex-Chicago cop Kubiak must prove that his son-in-law is not a murderer after the beaten body of a burglar is found in the son-in-law's truck. The burglar, by the way, had previously tried to hire Kubiak to investigate a murder/suicide in Lake County, IL. With no one to help him, Kubiak starts asking simple questions that result in his arrest, the disappearance of his daughter and her husband, and the eminent need to solve the crime before his family is destroyed. Lindley's larger-than-life policeman solved other crime sin a handful of short stories publishing Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine, but he makes a fantastic hardcover debut with this first novel. Lindley lives in Wauconda, IL.” — Library Journal, January 2007 “Kubiak, a retired Chicago police officer, turns down former burglar Paul Baumgarten's request that he investigate the suspicious suicide. Jack Mackay supposedly killed the elderly couple who took him in and gave him a job, then turned the gun on himself after a high-speed chase with the Lake County sheriff's department. Baumgarten maintains corrupt sheriff's department employees killed Mackay. When Baumgarten is found dead in a truck belonging to Kubiak's son-in-law, David Hollinger, Kubiak has a change of heart and decides to investigate both incidents, hoping to protect his daughter and clear Hollinger, who is the leading suspect in the murder. Kubiak is not above a little breaking and entering if necessary, and his sarcastic, wise-guy attitude doesn't endear him to other law-enforcement officials. Lindley has a nice feel for Chicago and the suburb of Round Lake, where much of the action takes place, and he tells a gritty, fast-paced story with a well-developed, if not entirely likable, main character.” — Sue O'Brien, Booklist, December 2006 Find out more about this book. Promises by Carolyn Brown AN AVALON ROMANCE A Love’s Valley Romance “In the final installment in Brown’s Love’s Valley series set in rough-and-tumble post-Civil War Reconstruction era, Indigo Hamilton’s wedding day is finally here, and everything is just perfect until her groom’s first wife—a Southerner whom Thomas had been told was dead—appears at the church with their son in her arms. Indigo, as always, is only concerned with her own status and feelings, but Flannon Sullivan goads her into resuming her life despite her mortification and blighted hopes. He is also there when a Klan assassin, last seen in (Redemption, 2006), attacks Indigo, rendering aid, and she recuperates, serving as bodyguard. Enforced propinquity ensures that the two find themselves unwillingly attracted by each other’s good points, while continuing to strike sparks off each other’s perceived weaknesses. Brown ties up all the loose ends nicely, and readers will enjoy seeing Indigo finally get her own happy ending.” — Lynne Welch, Booklist, December 2006 Find out more about this book. A Dark Trail Winding by Pete Peterson AN AVALON WESTERN “Jackass Jake wasn’t always a jackass. Once, he was simply Jake, a city boy turned mountain man with a cool