Series Books

#9 of the Deborah Knott series- The "carny" comes to town and with it a murder. Deborah is the one to find the victim. A long lost relative appears in this one as well. This book is a turning point for Deborah and the series. A surprise to the reader! I am starting to really enjoy this series. It took several of them to get there but I am glad I did not give up. The most notable aspect of this series is the author's way of highlighting something distinct about North Carolina in every book and weaving a mystery along with it.

I really liked this one. It was clear that Maron had fun writing it.

i really like this book! it's great to discover a new mystery author.

this is a great book! i'm glad that i discovered margaret maron.

Cozy mysteries are really of two types: Novels in the traditional cozy style whose main emphasis is a mystery and its resolution (e.g., Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers) and novels in the more modern cozy format, whose main emphasis is on social interactions (primarily between family, friends, and coworkers) with the mystery being a smaller component of the exposition. This is definitely a cozy in the latter form. Remove the additional social interactions, and this mystery could be presented in a novella or even a short story, although not as interestingly.

If you find modern cozies appealing, you will certainly find this an interesting book. Here, self-assured Judge Deborah Knott finds a dead worker while visiting the annual Harvest Festival Carnival. The reason for this death and the identity of the killer is the primary mystery. The preface provides a family tree of the Knott family, which is absolutely needed, as the Knotts are a large family, many of whom are presented in this novel. Readers will find themselves frequently referencing this chart to keep track of Knott family members. Fortunately, the number of carnival workers and additional characters is relatively small, but it may still pay to keep some brief notes of who they are as you read. There is also an informative addendum with a glossary of carnival terms, e.g., "cutting up jackpots", "plush", "rake `em and scrape `em" that are used in the novel.

I felt the story started somewhat slowly, but it quickly caught my interest, and as events unfolded it became harder to put down. Although the story is told in the first person, in terms that will probably appeal mostly to female readers, and there are probably more descriptions of Judge Knott's clothing choices than would interest male readers, this novel should none-the-less appeal to both sexes.

The novel reads quickly and easily, and provides a very enjoyable way to relax.

I don't buy any of it, not for a minute. But, this is a much more enjoyable read than several of the so-called "thrillers" I've read recently. Just suspend your disbelief, dive right in, and be swept away!

Aline, Countess of Romanos has written a spectacular book. I had to keep reminding myself that I was reading an autobiography and not a work of fiction. Aline is an agent for the OSS during World War II. She blends into Spanish high society and manages to complete her mission and introduce the reader to the thrills and chills of being an undercover agent. She also gives us a glimpse of Spanish Aristocracy, bull fighting and the inner workings of a nineteen year olds dilemma of befriending people who may be targets of her investigation. I have read all of her books but like this one the best. It is full of action, drama, and even a touch of romance. I have recommended it to all of my friends.

I have purchased 4 books by Aline Romanos. I absolutely love them. The fact that there is truth behind the story and that she really was an upper-class lady as well as a spy excites me. I find myself wishing I lived an adventurous life. She has a talent when it comes to recreating her life and exploits. I could not put it down!

Written like a fiction novel, this factual, first-person account of a young woman spy during World War II is absolutely enthralling. You'll get a first-hand look into what it's like to be recruited and trained as a spy, then go on your first assignment, mingling with the highest Spanish society while secretly risking your life to uncover essential Axis secrets. The characters in the novel are rich and compelling, and you never know what's going to happen next to the protagonist/ingenue Aline.

I read this book in the '80s and have remembered it ever since. I finally found it again and reread it. It's just as fascinating now as it was then.

The only drawback: If you read at night, you won't get much sleep because this book is nearly impossible to put down.

The most respected historian in the field of espionage, Nigel West, studied all of Aline's spy books marketed as nonfiction and concluded "...all four of Aline's books should be regarded as fiction, and nothing more..." Read "Counterfeit Spies, Chapter 3, by Nigel West, 1998.

This is the best New! Fear Street book ever. It's about a girl name Sondra who been hypnotized by her best friend and then it get's deadly. I highly recommend this book, ya'll.

The book had a very interesting twist to it.It's about a girl named Sondra who gets hypnotized and begins getting flashes of her past life,such as,answering to her name in the other life,and remembering certain places.This book just proves you never know who you can really trust.I really enjoyed it because I am very into past lives and the such.I recommend this book to any Fear Street fan--You'll be pleased.

Wow, it's been so long since i last read this book (I rented it from the library or else i'd read it again.) I reccomend this book to anyone who enjoys a good thriller. You don't have to be 13-15 years of age to enjoy R.L Stine's fearstreet series. In fact, i'm 18 and i absolutely love him. I'll admit his writting is'nt as elaborate and detailed as other writers but that's what's so great about him. He gets to the point and in the process gives us a great story. The Step Brother is an absolute shocker. You'll be hooked from beginning to end. Especially the end. This book has got one of the best surprise endings ever (although with R.L Stine you usually come to expect surprises).

THE STEPBROTHER IS ABOUT A GIRL NAMED SONDRA WHO GETS HYPNOTIZED AND HAS A STRANGE VISION. LATER ON IN THE BOOK SHE GOES TO A HYPNOTIST AND FINDS OUT SHE IS REMEMBERING EVENTS FROM A PAST LIFE. IN HER PAST LIFE SONDRA LIVED AS PENNY HANSON BUT WAS MURDERED. REALLY THE ENDING DIDN'T SURPRISE ME BECAUSE I READ A LOT OF MYSTERY BOOK BUT IT WILL SURPRISE A LOT OF PEOPLE. R.L. STINE REALLY OUTDID HISSELF WITH THIS BOOK.

Ever since Sondra's stepbrother moved in, she's been having these nightmares. Nightmares about her death. But what she doesn't know is that the events Sondra is remembering is from a past life. And now she believes, with help from her friends and a psychic, that the person from the past is after her in this life. All fingers are pointing towards her stepbrother ... could it be him?

With a great plot and an ending that will surprise you, The Stepbrother is one of R.L. Stine's best novels in the Fear Street series.

Even though I'm 22 years old, I love the Fear Street series. There are even some that scare me to the bone (honestly). Hey, I know you're laughing at me! There are adults out there who do read the Fear Street books. Honest to god!!!

With all the violence on TV these day,it is nice to get a book for our grandchildren that is sweet and fun to read. I have all John Denver's music and books,this is one of the cutiest.It is a must for grandma,hope you like it as much as I did. Carol

This is the softcover version of the book, but it is a nice addition to my elementary classroom library.

Sunshine on My Shoulders book/CD is so very touching with the warm memories of the heart felt song by John Denver and Christopher Canyon's beautiful illustrations that accompany the music. I am an early childhood teacher and I use the book to demonstrate how thoughts become words, become verse, becomes song. . . . The Music Is You opening song on the CD explains this concept even further! The children, ages two to seven years, are mesmerized again and again through out the story/song. Other teachers and parents even stop to listen. This is a wonderful opportunity to teach about who John Denver was, what he believed to be so important for our lives, in addition to Christopher Canyon's ability to carry on the message in a way that can reach children of all ages!

This is a gorgeous book, with John Denver's lyrics, and beautiful summery illustrations. My daughter has the paperback version and we love it so much that we have been buying the hardcover version as a new baby gift. The book features a brown-skinned little girl - hard to find - and a brown-skinned daddy - even harder to find - swinging, floating on a boat, and playing a guitar! This is a terrific publisher who deserves our support for their commitment to quality children's literature.

This John Denver song, turned into a book illustrated by Christopher Canyon is wonderful. Absolutely beautiful illustrations. One you can sing/read over and over. Very well done. Can't wait for "Grandma's Feather Bed". Dolphin Lullaby and Take Me Home Country Roads are both worth purchasing also. My kindergarten class loves it as well as my children at home.

This is probably THE most concise and well written book on self improvement EVER. I've been to the motivational seminars of many of the greats, but this book touches on what they all have to say and in a succinct and understandable way. Recommended for anyone serious about self improvement and reaching their full potential. If you're looking for one book, this is it.

This book helps the reader keep his/her mind up and fight low self-esteem. However, chapter 1 says it all. After that, the books constantly repeats everything over and over again: "You can do anything you wanna do in life". That's all this book says only written in different words. Therefore, there's little knowledge to be gained here. This book is more like a treatment reminding you to always think highly of yourself. That's it.

This book is incredible. Makes total sense and easy to read even though the content is pretty deep. I've read it 3 times and highly recommend it. Recommend reading some of the book every day.

This book is one of the best and clearly defines what it takes an individual to be successful in their own life. Easy to understand, clear concepts to follow through and think straight to be successful! I know it is one of the best out there! I GIVE THEM AWAY TO MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS!

If you're looking for the ultimate in self-development books this book is a must buy! Dr. Staples is a master at his craft and seeks to help you understand that the way you think about yourself and your life is a direct correlation to the outcomes you're receiving. If you are on a track to truly improve your life by undertanding the way you "think" about it, this book will definitely pave the way to acheiving all that you desire and deserve! I whole-heartedly thank Dr. Staples and hope he writes more!!

Easy read...good clean story line, the characters pray to god, but its not the heavy religous stuff, more realistic, when one stops and says a quick prayer. Enjoy the fact that sex is left out of the story but that the author builds a relationship between the characters. The story line keeps you picking up the book.

When Darcy the spy meets Cougar the Navy SEAL, the chemistry is unquestionable. The romance builds through stolen moments sprinkled within the thickening suspense that follows the terrorist attacks of 9/11. This novel has a strong plot that is examined from the viewpoints of both the military and the CIA. There is intense action as well as thought-provoking intelligence. This is one of Dee Henderson's finest projects!

Yes, that about says it. Dee Henderson uses good syntax and an interesting plot to give you an all around good book.

I could not put this book down. The first book took me over one week to read. Just couldn't get into the characters. But the last two I could not put this book down.

I love strong women characters the kind that do not need to be saved. You got that from this book she could ultimately take care of herself but it's better to work as a team to catch the bad guy.

I enjoy reading but believe there are too many good Christian writers out there to read much of the secular trash today. I used to think it was safe to go to my church library to get good reading material--WRONG!! They are interested in getting best sellers, etc. I enjoy a good novel that keeps my interest without the foul language, the sleeping around, etc. Don't get me wrong-- sometimes there is a purpose to these topics in the book-- like observing how the Christians around them have witnessed to bring them out of their sinful lives. Think you know what I mean. Dee Henderson is one of those authors that I can count on for a good clean story--exciting and clean. True Honor was no exception. It is a wonderful love story and both main characters happen to be Chrisitans. Throughout the entire book both Darcy and Sam look to the Lord for guidance and strength throughout trials. If is evident from the first moment they meet that there are "sparks" between the two of them. Do they act on those sparks by hopping in and out of bed? No! This is a thrilling story of espionage, danger, murder, terrorism, friendship, relationships, families and patriotism. It is also current-- as Ms Henderson's story begins just prior to that day in history we recently lived thru--9-11. An easy read that you won't put down until you are finished.

This was actually the first Daniel Steele book I ever read. It was wonderful the story so well developed and the characters so full of life. In fact I have now read this book at least 3 times maybe even 4, truly a classic. Everyone should have this on their shelf to read when you get tired of just seeing words on a page that take you nowhere.

Audry is SUCH a great character! Her love of adventure and for her man, but her loyalty to her family is what really pulled the story together. Very enjoyable book!

I have read many of Danielle Steel's books. This has to be one of her best. It is about a young woman named Audrey who has been caretaker to her grandfather and younger sister. Then, she has this need to do some traveling, and see the world. She does so, first going to New York City (she lived in San Francisco). She meets two people named James and Violet, and she becomes a travel companion for the two. In England, she meets Charles, whom becomes her one true love, and they travel the world together, and no matter what threatens to break them up, they never give up on each other.

This is not as formulaic as many of Danielle Steel novels, but it is still wonderful and one of her best.

This book is so cool...it takes you so many places, you most likely have never been to. It's so fun to put yourself in this characters shoes & see what it's like. I love to read about countries I haven't been to...classic DS

I have been reading Danielle Steel for over 15 years and own all her books and this is one of my favourites - one I can read over and over again and still enjoy the story.
I was transported back to the 1930's and admired the bravery of Audrey travelling to China when it was probably a dangerous (and not "proper") for a young single woman to do so. This one made me laugh, cry and wish that all would go well for Audrey.
If you are a Danielle Steel fan you will love this one. Her earlier novels (like this one) are so much better than her later books. If you are new to Danielle Steel - this one is highly recommended. Enjoy!

I thoroughly enjoy the family gatherings around Virgin River and Grass Valley - All I can say is more - more please.

Mike "Miquel" Valenzuela, 37 has shown up next in the trilogy - he is from LAPD of the gangs division.
Brie Sheridan [must be after the divorce]31, is Jack's baby sister who was married to Brad, a cop. Brie herself being a proscuting attorney.
Brad doesn't know what he lost.

She lost her case in proscuting Powell, a seriel rapist. Then he nailed her leaving Brie traumitized. When he is caught Brad tries to use the information to his advantage. He wants Brie back. Sucker!

We get a very close glimpse of Preacher and Paige - and his outspokenness with his Marine buddies. What a chuckle.

Hope offers Mike a job, that of being an investigative lawman for Virgin River - It also intails his calling the County Sheriff in case of a serious crime.

Mel ends up with a couple of girls who she suspects are victims of a date rape drug and reports this to Mike who starts to narrow the list of suspects. Sue & Doug Carpenter's daughter, Brenda, 16, was pregnant and couldn't remember it happening.

You should hear Mel start to sputter when she finds out she is pregnant again, apparently David wasn't just a miracle baby, but the beginning of fertility. [her "snip, snips" were totally uncalled for, he! he!] Jack was just doing his job. Ah, but now he will offer Mel a surprise - he calls Paul Haggerty, his fellow Marine, down from Oregon to hurry up and finish off the new house.

Paul was the best man at Matt Rutledge's marriage to Vanessa Booth.
Van was very much pregnant - she has moved in with her father and brother, Walt, a retired 3 Star Army General and Tom. Walt had purchased a ranch for his and Tom's horses.
Tom is still in high school and being the new kid on the block, he struck up a friendship with Jordan Whitley, who was a partying guy.

Tom also met Brenda and started dating her. Zack Hadley, a teacher was questioned by Mike and they became friendly with a common cause.

Now here is Walt Booth with a terminally ill younger sister, Midge who is being taken care of by her daughter, Shelby living in Bodega Bay. Now I am thinking - hey, here is a woman for Paul - that was before everything went to pot. I was also expecting Dan to show up - ah well, he was a no-show.

What a great third book to the Virgin River Trilogy -- It will be hard to wait for the November "Virgin River Christmas".
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED -m - Definitely a keeper for my shelves.

This three part series was the first I read of Carr. Enjoyed all three.

This was a very good book. I did not like it as well as the first two, but feel it is definitely worth reading. I hope Ms. Carr decides to continue the series. I loved reading about Virgin River and all it's inhabitants.

I started reading the Virgin River series by Robyn Carr at the suggestion of others and believe me, I am glad I did! This is the last so far in the series, and her other series, Grace Valley, will be reissued in August. I cannot wait to read that series also. There isn't a character in these series whom you would not like; they are all so likeable, friendly and caring in this small town that you would want to move there.

In this book, the main characters are Brie, who is Jack's youngest sister, and his friend, Mike. She was brutally raped and beaten and Mike came to her aid and they fell in love.

I could go on and on, but I would love for you to read the series, Virgin River, Shelter Mountain and Whispering Rock. You will get to love the characters of Mel and Jack, Paige and Preacher, and Brie and Mike. I highly recommend this book and others in the series. Happy Reading!

The Virgin River Series:

Virgin River

Shelter Mountain

Whispering Rock

A Virgin River Christmas (Nov 2008)


"Whispering Rock" is the third book in an ongoing series. Although Amazon refers to the series as a "trilogy", there are more sequels on the way.

This, the third book in the series, is the most powerful yet. When characters were lost, I felt as if I'd lost a friend of my own. When babies were born, I was right there feeling the joy in the birthing room.
The first book, "Virgin River", introduces you to a lot of the characters for the rest of the series. There are a couple of important characters who are newly introduced in the sequels, but the majority are already in your heart from the first book.

So... if you haven't read "Virgin River" yet, don't ruin this book by reading it first. Become a part of the Virgin River family with book 1, then continue from there.
Here are the links to the first and second books in the series:
Virgin River (Virgin River Trilogy, Book 1)

Shelter Mountain (Virgin River Trilogy, Book 2)



For those whom have already read the first two books:

The residents of Virgin River are facing a year of great miracles and devastating tragedies. Jack and Mel Sheridan are back to see their friends and family through it all. Their own miracle, David, is growing and becoming a son to the entire town. A surprise is coming for the Sheridan family. It will cause Jack to prove to Mel that his devotion is as strong as ever. There is nothing he won't do to bring a smile to her face.

Preacher is on a mission. He and Paige want a baby. He'll follow any advice Mel can give them to make it happen. To Paige's chagrin, her shy husband is not the least bit bashful about sharing this info with his marine buddies. Before long, the whole town is taking interest in Preacher's quest. To Preacher, "Ovulation Day" is better than Christmas.

Mike Valenzuela has found a home in Virgin River. His body is finally reaching nearly 100% recovery. His heart, however, is nearly 100% lost. Mike's feelings for Brie Sheridan are growing by the day. Their phone conversations are his favorite part of each afternoon. When he learns that Brie has been assaulted and raped, the only thing that matters to him is getting to her side. A victim of violent crime himself, he has the knowledge, patience, and understanding Brie needs to help her heal. Knowing he may never win her heart, he'll still give Brie all of his attention and affection to make her grow strong again.

Brie is afraid. Afraid to leave her father's house, afraid to close her eyes at night, afraid of the dark, of public places, and most afraid that she has died inside. She believes she may never be able to feel love and joy again. Living with her dad, Brie is several hours away from Mike. To her surprise, he shows up on the doorstep one day. With her dad's encouragement, she agrees to leave the house with Mike for an hour or two. Lunch, a short walk, any means Mike can find to get Brie to start living again, he'll be there to provide the support. Slowly, over months of patient devotion, Mike is giving Brie a reason to feel hope for a future of love and passion.


Aside from these stories, a new family moves to the Virgin River area. Without ever knowing them from prior books, this family became as close to my heart as many of the original characters. My heart bled for all they endured and all they achieved. Robyn Carr struck gold here. I finished the book last night, but I still feel the impact. An amazing story that left me haunted. How on earth did Carr do that with a character that we barely met?

We get a little bit more of Rick's story. I'm looking forward to seeing his future unfold. Also, Lilly (baby Chloe's mom), will have you reaching for the Kleenex.

The next edition of this series won't be released until Nov 2008. It's going to be HARD to wait that long. This series has become one of my favorites. Hook, line, and sinker.



Love to read extremely emotional romance novels? Here are some that rocked my soul:

Marsha Canham's two- book Scottish historical series. Holy cow, your heart will cry during the last 100 pages of "Blood of Roses".
The Pride of Lions

Blood of Roses


Another Scottish historical that had a true impact for readers:
Scotsman


First book in Gaelen Foley's long- running series. The whole series is terrific, but the first really grabs your heart:
The Duke
To continue the series from there:
Lord of Fire
Lord of Ice: A Novel
Lady of Desire
Devil Takes a Bride
One Night of Sin: A Novel
His Wicked Kiss: A Novel

I found it hard to put this book down. It read so quickly that I was done before I knew it. It was a story of awakening, understanding, and love -- on all levels. I will be reading this book again.

Cogan is a very warm, introspective author. I have had the pleasure of reading all her books & would highly recommend all of them, starting with Winona's Web, then Compass of the Heart. Her characters have so much depth ~ truly refreshing. She knows the heart & soul of them each. I felt my soul grow reading her books. Do yourself a favor, & give her a try.

Excellent Reading!!! I laughed, I cried , - I read the book in 48 hours. I couldn't put it down. This book opened my mind to ideas I already knew existed but had never felt in my heart. The emotion was to real - and very fulfiling.

I loved this book, and I loved Winona. Started reading it on a Saturday afternoon and finished it early Sunday morning and spent Sunday afternood searching the bookstores for the 2nd of this 3-book series. Winona's Web is definitely for any woman or some type of journey and most of those who are not. Winona is an example of a woman who has found herself and an excellant role model to Meggie, who has not. This book is to be coming out as a movie, and I can hardly wait.

This was a sweet book and I encourage women of all ages to read it. Our protagonist, Dr. Meggie O'Connor moves back to the family farm from New York City after her many year-old marriage fails and she is fast approaching her fortieth birthday. She is a psychologist and restarts her practice in northern Michigan. One of her early clients/patients is Winona Pathfinder, a Native American "healer" whose daughter has pushed her to therapy because she insists she will be dying soon, thank you very much. As this relationship grows it becomes more quickly evident to the reader than to Meggie that it is she who is being healed. Meggie learns a good deal about Winona's life, her decisions, and her reasons for the calm prediction of death and is drawn into the validity of the pipe-smoking, and the Native American `medicine' ways. In a very subtle way, Winona draws Meggie into a real change of view about who she is and what her value is. Finally, there is a love interest that, in a surprise in the end, makes the story wonderfully complete.

This little book hits the spot for preteen & older readers. It's graphically colorful, with a variety of interesting photos & illustrations; it's written conversationally, yet with enough factual citations to validate the unbelievable, heroic stories; and, it introduces the reader to a cast of amazing female characters mainly unheard of in contemporary American culture.

I bought it to send to my grandchildren, but was captivated into reading it myself. I learned a lot.

I received this book as a gift and am now a proud owner.... In case any merchandisers are reading this - I HIGHLY recommend it be in stores like Urban Outfitters and the like! It is a wise & fun book.

History books can usually be pretty boring. This one is not ! It is fun, alive, easy to read and very colorful. The information is accessible to young readers and adult readers like me...who don't want to be overwhelmed with information, but want to have fun learning it ! This is an original and lively book, I would recommend it.

Women Warriors is packed with fun, accessible introductions to a diverse group of fierce women. Rather than narrowly focusing on warriors of a particular culture or type, Apeles has included an impressive range of warrior women spanning numerous cultures and ages. By placing pop-culture icons, soldiers, political activists, and sports stars on neighboring pages, this inspiring text reminds readers that there are and always have been all sorts of ways to be bold.

(And I love that two of my personal heroes, Emma Goldman and Rosa Parks, share a page.)

I purchased this work seeking information on the mythical amazons but hoped to find actual historical material on female soldiers. The world is full of women who took up the sword from the Sarmations and Celts to the French Resistence.
And history is filled with incidents of individual women who broke from their assigned roles and became soldiers and pirates so with all this truth out there, why did this book put so much focus on: 1) female trennis stars, 2) Xena TV show, 3) Powerpuff Girls cartoon, 4) Buffy TV show and the like?
Are women on the battlefield so sparse and uninteresting that Ms Apeles must describe Charlies Angels and the origin of Supergirl to add excitement to her 'work'?

Save your money and buy a book that focuses on the reality, not cartoons.