Tag Archives: Nora Roberts

The MacKade Brothers Review

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The MacKade Brothers by Nora Roberts – a Review

The MacKade Brothers, is another wonderful series by Nora Roberts. A four book series about four brothers; Jared, Rafe, Devin and Shane. Equally handsome with the ability to set a woman’s pulse racing at 20 paces with only a single look. These are the bad boys of the small town of Antietam, Maryland.

 

 

The Return Of Rafe MacKade – Book 1

After 10 years of being away from his home and family the bad boy of Antietam Maryland has returned.   Rafe MacKade returns home a success, owning his own business, with plans to stay.  He purchases the old Barlow Place on the hill, which is said to be haunted, with plans to turn it into a Bed and Breakfast.  Enter Regan Bishop, an Antiques dealer who owns her own shop Past Times and moved to Antietam 3 years ago.   At first glance Regan appears too neat and tidy to be drawn to a man like Rafe MacKade.  However, once their paths cross there’s no denying the attraction between the two.  No matter how hard they try to keep a professional relationship they can’t deny the attraction each feels for the other. 

As Rafe and Regan’s relationship develops we learn that Antietam was the scene for the bloodiest day of the Civil War and that many ghosts from that day still haunt the area.  The story of the two Corporals who met and fought in the woods that border the MacKade farm and the old Barlow place is perfectly woven and tied to Rafe and Regan’s budding romance. 

As the story moves along Nora introduces us to Rafe’s 3 other brothers, as well as Cassie and Joe Dolin.   Cassie has been a friend of the MacKades since childhood, and has been in an abusive relationship with her husband for years.  Regan and Cassie became friends over the years and Regan has been encouraging Cassie to get out of this relationship.

The Pride of Jared MacKade – Book 2

Bad boy turned town lawyer Jared MacKade takes front and center in book two of this series.  Having already been married once and divorced,  Jared, the eldest of the brothers isn’t sure he wants to go down that road again.  He’s quite happy in his life right now, running his own law firm down in Hagerstown, and recently selling his home there and returning to the MacKade farm.  Life is good until he turns down the laneway to deliver news to the newest inhabitant of Antietam, Savannah Morningstar. 

Savannah and her son Bryan have just moved into the log cabin bordering MacKade  land, and Rafe and Regan’s Bed and Breakfast.   Savannah is a single mother, who got pregnant at 16 and was tossed out by her rodeo circuit Bronco riding father.  She was drawn to the town of Antietam, particularly the woods, with the hope of starting fresh and giving her son the chance at a life she never had.  However, when she and Jared meet for the first time sparks fly, and it’s just the beginning of a wild and exciting ride for them.  Both are attracted to the other from the start, but they each need to come to terms with the other’s backgrounds.  

As their relationship progresses Nora continues to weave the ghost story of the two Corporals who met in the MacKade woods, and did battle during the Civil War.  As in Rafe and Regan’s story, the two Corporals and the woods they battled in are also tied to Savannah and Jared.  We also get to see the progression that Cassie and her children are making now that she is divorced from her abusive husband and moving on. 

The Heart of Devin MacKade – Book 3

Who would ever have thought the town’s resident bad boy Devin MacKade would one day be keeping the peace in the small town of Antietam Maryland.  Devin MacKade is now the town sheriff and takes pride in his small town and looking out for its residents.  One resident in particular, Cassie Dolin.  Devin has always been in love with Cassie but was never brave enough to ask her out.  Now, after years of pining over Cassie, Devin has decided to step up to the plate and take matters into his own hands. 

Cassie Dolin has always been a friend of the MacKades since childhood.  She married Joe Dolin, but had a miserable life with him, as he abused her both physically and verbally.  Thanks to the help of her friend Regan, and the MacKades, Cassie is finally free of her miserable life and moving on.  With her ex husband in prison, Cassie and her children Connor and Emma can finally start over. Now the proud manager of the MacKade Bed and Breakfast, Cassie is starting to see Devin in a different light.  But does she have the courage to take the leap?

Nora continues to weave her ghost story of the two Corporals, as well as the ghosts of Abigail and Thomas Barlow who were the owners of the Old Barlow place back at the time of the Civil War.  Once again Nora does an amazing job of overlapping the lives of Devin and Cassie with that of the past lives of Abigail and Mr. Barlow. 

The Fall of Shane MacKade – Book 4

Shane MacKade, youngest of the MacKade brood, resident bad boy and ladies man is happy living his life on the MacKade farm.  He’s a man of the earth and loves riding his tractor, tending the earth, looking after his livestock and charming Antietam’s ladies.  Shane is not one to turn away from a challenge and when Dr. Rebecca Knight strolls into town on a ghost busting mission, Shane goes on high alert. However, for all his charming and charismatic ability with the ladies, Shane for once is baffled.  All he’s ever known goes right out the window as the town’s resident ladies man begins  to fall into the realm of love and commitment.  An area he’s never been in before and doesn’t know what to do.   

Dr. Rebecca Knight, kid genius turned psychiatrist has had enough of her academic life.  She’s tired of being the frumpy nerd girl who never fit in.  Now back from Paris with a new look and view on life she’s ready for something new and challenging.   Shane Mackade is just what the doctor ordered.

Like Savannah, Rebecca finds she’s drawn to the town of Antietam and the battle that took place there.  Through dreams she’s been having she feels a strong connection to the area and decides it’s time to find out why.  As Rebecca digs deeper into Antietam’s history and what happened on that fateful day, Nora continues to weave the story of the two Corporals and role the MacKade’s great grandparents played.  Shane is resistant to any talk of ghosts and the paranormal, but over time begins to see that it’s too strongly tied to him to ignore it any longer. Through Shane and Rebecca’s love for each other and acknowledgement of the past the spirits that have been haunting the area can finally find a semblance of peace. 

If you’re looking for a series that has love, romance, paranormal and humor this one’s got it all.  You can’t go wrong with Nora’s bad boys of Antietam Maryland.      

Reviewed by Marcie

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The Dream Trilogy Review

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The Dream Trilogy Review

Since Valentine’s Day has just passed, and we are in the mood for Romance, we thought we would treat you to one Nora Roberts pure romantic trilogies.  The Dream Trilogy is what Nora does so well, it is all about romance, love, friendship and pure fun. In some of Nora trilogies, she mixes romance with mystery, tragedy, or in some cases paranormal. Not so in the Dream trilogy. This is a wonderful story of three friends who grew up together from childhood, each having their own outlook at what they wanted for their lives in the future….each having grown up in the same household, but by different means. Margo, Kate and Laura were brought up like sisters amidst the grandeur of the Templeton House, and by the time you finish the series, you will love them like they were your friends and family. Enjoy this series, as it is one of Nora’s best, but then again I love all of Nora’s trilogies.

“Daring to Dream” –  Book #1

Daring to Dream belongs to Margo Sullivan.  Margo is the daughter of Ann Sullivan, who started working for the rich Templeton family almost thirty years ago. Margo was raised in the mansion of the Templeton’s, who own a chain of international luxury hotels. Early, living in the mansion, Margo, becomes best friends with Laura, the daughter of of the Templetons, as well as with Kate, a cousin of Laura, who was adopted by the Templetons, after a tragic accident killed her parents.  Though this is Margo’s story, this is all about the friendship between the three girls, that continues as they are all grown up.  

Margo loved the Templeton’s as they were her own family, and was always treated equally the same as Laura and Kate.  But Margo always wanted to go on her own, and seek fame and fortune.  All the girls are pretty, but Margo the glamour girl of the three of them.  She leaves home at the age of 18 to seek her fame and fortune, which she does well as a model in Europe.  Though famous, Margo still visits her friends and family, but after 10 years she has to return home humiliated by a scandal, as well as losing all her money.

Margo will not beg or ask for help, but it is her friends who give her the love and support to help her begin her life again.  Josh Templeton, Laura’s brother is the Attorney for Templeton, and he is also there to help Margo.  Josh has secretly loved Margo, and both have totally ignored the attraction each had for one another.  Margo, though loving her family (the Templetons), is a bit selfcentered.  Josh, has always been a playboy, living the live style of the rich.  But they are thrown together during Margo’s problems, as well as Laura’s marriage problems, that is heading toward a divorce.   

It is great to see Margo changing and beginning to love the idea of opening a shop and becoming a saleswoman…..to see how the three girls stick together and the love they have for each other….the heat from Margo and Josh realizing they were meant for each other.  Great first book, can’t wait for the next book, which belongs to Kate.

“Holding the Dream” – Book #2

Kate Powell is the adopted daughter of Thomas and Susan Templeton.  Kate is different then both Margo and Laura, as she though beautiful, deglamorizes herself.  She dresses in conservatively, is dedicated to her job, as an accountant, and is very opinionated.  Despite all of that, Kate loves her family, and is very close to Margo and Laura, even if they are all different.   Kate, though being offered to work for the Templeton’s did not want to take advantage of them, and pursued working on her own.  Working for a CPA firm, she has high hopes of becoming a partner.   

Kate is a silent partner in Pretenses, a boutique shop Margo started with Laura in the first book.  She helps with the books, and lets the other two use their outgoing personalities to sell.  But then everything begins to fall apart for Kate.  She learns that her deceased father was a thief, and shortly thereafter,  Kate is accused of embezzling funds from the accounting firm she works for.  Then suddenly Kate’s world comes crashing down. First, she finds that her father, who was killed in a car accident when she was a girl, was under a cloud of suspicion for.  Her confidence is shattered, and she keeps her feelings to herself, which eventually causes her to have an ulcer.

Kate has not been dating in the last few years, and meets the new manager of the the Templeton hotel, Byron DeWitt.  She dislikes him, as he is a certified hunk, and not her type.  But the sexual intensity between them is strong.  Bryon is confused, as Kate is exactly what he was never interested in, as she kept her hair short like a boy, dresses conservatively, and comes across as hostile.  Despite her family wanting to help her, Kate regresses into her shell, and it is Byron who she eventually turns to.  She lets herself open up, and become sexually involved with Bryon.   Kate never wants to depend on any man, and thinks they having an affair is good enough.   But as Byron begins to fall in love with Kate, he wants more. 

The family and Byron help Kate come out of her shell and fight the charge against her.  It is Margo and Laura, who convince Kate not to run away from Byron and to face her love. 

Another wonderful story by Nora.  I just love seeing all of them together…to see how they make their business grow….to watch Margo become a mother and her marriage to Josh is great….to see Laura, though now divorced…be happy for her friends…loved how Margo transformed Kate to look totally sexy for a charity event .  I loved the way Thomas and Susan Templeton love all of “their” children, which does include Kate and Margo.   The key to this series is the fun watching the girls with each other.. the teasing, the fighting, and the love and support they feel for each other.

“Finding the Dream” – Book #3

Laura Templeton is the heroine in the final book of the Dream Trilogy. If you have read the first two books, you know that Laura is the steady one of all three of the girls.  Though she is now divorced from the bad Peter Ridgeway, who took her money, as well as what was put away for her daughters.  She is now working at the hotel, which her family owns, as well at Pretenses. Laura will not touch her stock, or ask for her family to bail her out.  She prefers to work to take care of her girls and pay her bills.  Now alone living in her mansion, Laura raises two daughters, and watches her best friends find love and marry.   She copes with her guilt over the failed marriage, as well as the fallout from her children.  These frustrations began in the previous book, as the oldest daughter blames her for her father leaving.  

Michael Fury is an old friend of Josh, Laura brother.  A rough tough teenager when he was young, Michael has spent years abroad as a mercenary, and in Hollywood, as a stunt man. Now he has finally come home, as he runs a horse stable, but was just recently wiped out by a mudslide.  Josh convinces Laura to let Michael rent their empty stable.  Laura, remembering the bad boy Michael, reluctantly agrees, as she can use the money.

Michael befriends Laura’s girls, as they help him work around the stable, and he teaches them to ride the horses.  Though Laura is not looking for romance, she finds herself becoming attracted to Michael. The romance that develops between the two of them is great to watch.  Michael though does not believe that anything would ever become of his relationship to Laura. He knows he has always admired her from afar, but is now in love with her, but Michael feels he does not belong in the of the wealthy Templetons, nor would Laura even consider becoming serious.  Laura, finally emerging from the shell she built from her previous marriage, and opens herself up both sexually and emotionally.

It’s a great last ¼ of the book, where Laura’s parents come home from Europe to find out what is happening with their daughter, but they realize in a short time, that Laura knows what she wants, and is happy.  But Michael sensing the family, nor Laura will except him, decides to leave.  The exciting ending, where a accident threatens some lives, and the hidden treasure that has been part of this trilogy all the way through, is discovered. But as in most romances, especially Nora, there is a happy ending.

All three books were great…I enjoyed the fun of Margo, though she was a bit selfish, but never to her family, and loved her with Josh…I liked the change in Kate and her romance with Byron…I loved Laura’s story, just seeing her open up to love and sex, especially after her loveless marriage to Peter, and watching her best friends happily married.

If I could change one thing, it would be the ending. I felt there should have been another short chapter, showing all of them together…living happily having found their Dreams.

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Classic Nora Roberts Now in eBook format from Intermix

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In January 2012, Penguin Group’s Berkley and New American Library (NAL) divisions will launch the InterMix eBook imprint. The list will feature titles from a wide variety of genres including women’s fiction, romance, mystery and thriller and science fiction/fantasy.

The initial list includes eleven titles from Kindle Million Club member Nora Roberts. InterMix will publish eBook editions of The Cordina’s Royal Family series, The Donovan Legacy series and “several novels featuring fan favorites the O’Hurleys”–all previously unavailable as eBooks.

Here’s more from the release: “In February, InterMix will revive the renowned Signet Regency line with the release of six popular romance titles that have never before been published as eBooks. Signet Regency, a popular line of Regency-era romances, began in the mid-1970s and became the leading publisher of Regency romances. Three additional Regency-set romances will be released each following month throughout 2012. And later in the year, InterMix will bring back four novels in the classic Guinevere Jones series from bestselling writer Jayne Ann Krentz, writing as Jayne Castle, that have long been out of print and have never been available as eBooks.”

 

http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/nora-roberts-ebooks-featured-in-new-digital-imprint_b40513

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The Gallaghers of Ardmore

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The Gallaghers of Ardmore

“The Gallaghers of Ardmore” is my second favorite of Nora Roberts trilogies.  This series is absolutely wonderful, filled with love & romance, family, friendship, intermixed with a background story of the fae and fantasy. Nora has a number of books that take place in Ireland, and the “Gallaghers of Ardmore” was the first of the Irish themed books that I read.

Nora does such a great job in making us feel like we were indeed in Ireland. I fell in love with Ireland, and all three couples.  This is a great series, a fun and relaxing read.  The overall theme of this series is about three Gallagher siblings, and how they must find their true loves, and this in turn will free a pair of Fae lovers from the past. Below is a condensed review for each of the three books in this excellent series.

Jewels of the Sun – Book #1

With her life in turmoil after a failed marriage and fearing that she is having a nervous breakdown, Jude Murray sets off on a journey to Ireland. She has taken a three month leave as a professor in Chicago to research Irish folklore, and stays at her grandmother’s cottage on a faerie hill in Ardmore.

In the small village of Ardmore, Ireland, Gallagher’s pub is the center of the lively seaside community and the home of three passionate siblings: Aidan, Shawn, and Darcy. The oldest brother Aidan, a world traveler, finds himself very intrigued with Jude

Jude, who is shy, and very reserved, does not know how to handle the friendly and charming people of Ardmore, especially the handsome pub owner Aidan Gallagher.  Jude also must learn to deal with the female ghost who resides in her cottage.

She soon finds herself caught up in the charm and fantasy of the land and people around her, challenging her beliefs. Jude finds female friends she never really had before in Aidan’s sister Darcy, and their friend Brenna. By the time she embarks on an affair with Aidan, she starts to make a remarkable transformation that opens a whole new world for her, as she begins to become more confident, happy, in love and begins to find herself where she now feels she belongs…Ireland.   The charm and Irish humor flow freely, as you enjoy the fun and laughter, the singing in the pub, makes this an enjoyable story, as you watch the change in Jude.  The love between Aidan and Jude is wonderful to see.  Jude listens to the stories told by Aidan and others about the legends, including the story of Carrick, the Faerie Prince and Gwen, the lady who benignly haunts Jude’s cottage, and this begins her writing career.  It is this book that starts this series so well, and you will find the characters to become your friends too – Jude, Aidan, Darcy, Shawn, Brenna.

Tears of the Moon – Book # 2

The Faerie Prince, Carrick, who needs three couples to find love and happiness to be reunited with his Gwen, now turns his quest on to Shawn Gallagher, since Aidan and Jude are now happily married.  Shawn and Brenna are good friends.  But Shawn is not interested in any kind of relationship, certainly not Brenna, whom he looks at like a sister.  But Brenna, an independent tomboy and loyal friend, has always been in love with Shawn.

A talented songwriter, Shawn Gallagher spends his days manning the kitchen at the family’s pub, and writes music in his spare time. He loves his life and has no ambition to do anything else. His family and friend cannot understand why Shawn doesn’t put his musical gift to profitable use. When Brenna tells Shawn she wants to sleep with him, he is shocked. He always notices her cute figure, but he’s never thought of her in that way. But after she propositions him, that’s is all he thinks about. The two begin a sexual relationship with an agreement that when it’s over they will part friends. Shawn realizes fairly quickly that he has fallen in love Brenna, but since he does not know that she feels the same, he plots to make her think that marriage is her idea. Brenna’s desire to fix things makes her want to help Shawn to publish his music.  She goes behind his back to do this, and when he finds out it causes a problem between them.  But both come to realize how much they love each other, and Shawn realizes how much his music effects others and agrees to publish his music, with Brenna’s help.

The romance between Shawn and Brenna is very good, and we get to see all the others again. Aidan, is about to make a lot of money by expanding the family’s pub in partnership with a New York entrepreneur, and Jude, is pregnant. Darcy, continues to be the happy fun loving, singing, flirtatious self , and plans to eventually leave Ardmore to travel world.   Her story is next.

Heart of the Sea – Book # 3

Darcy, the fun loving gorgeous Gallagher sister, has always believed in the pull of fate, the magic of legend, and the importance of money. She has always wanted to see the world, much like her brother Aidan did. Because of that, she wants a rich and handsome man who will love her and give her all the luxury she deserves. Darcy likes to flirt, have fun, and knows she is beautiful, but no man has yet to touch her heart.

Trevor Magee, a wealthy businessman, has come to the small Irish village of Ardmore to build a theatre and try to discover the land his grandfather left many years before. Trevor isn’t interested in anything other then his new venture with the Gallaghers.  At least not until he meets Darcy Gallagher, who tempts him like no woman ever has. She’s gorgeous, intelligent, and she knows what she wants–and he’s more than willing to give it to her. He offers Darcy the world, not seeing that as much as she wants riches and luxury, it is his heart that ultimately matters to her

Darcy appears to be self-centered, but deep down she really wants love. She is devoted to her family and friends, and when she becomes worried by the realization that she loves Trevor, she goes to Jude and Brenna, her friends and sisters-in-law, to cry her heart out. Their friendship is a major plus in this entire series.  Darcy finally tells Trevor she loves him, and wants even if he is poor, though she is of course happy he is rich. Lol  It takes Trevor a bit longer to realize that it is his own insecurity with Darcy, that causes him to keep offering her fame and wealth, believing that’s the way to woo and win her, without realizing how much he is hurting her in the process. In the end, they end up a happy couple and Darcy much to her family’s happiness does embark on a musical career.  The Gallaghers of Ardmore was a great series, and this book was a fitting end to the series.

Barb

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The Circle Trilogy

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The Circle Trilogy by Nora Roberts

The Circle Trilogy by Nora Roberts is different then most things Nora writes, as it is Paranormal Fantasy with celtic lore, vampire legend, sorcerers, vampires, witches, time travel, shape shifting, and a mystical fairy kingdom and a fight of good against evil.  The premise of “Circle Trilogy” starts in 12th century Ireland, with a sorcerer chosen by the goddess Morrigan to be the leader in a battle defeat Lilith, the Queen of all vampires.  Lilith has gathered an immense army of vampires to take over the world. The Circle trilogy begins with Hoyt, the sorcerer, who must follow Morrigan’s instructions to gather the circle of six; himself, a witch, a warrior, a scholar, one with many forms, and the one he’s lost. Some will seek him out, others he will have to find.  Morrigan’s Cross is the first book in this series.

“Morrigan’s Cross” –  Book #1

Hoyt is the sorcerer, who is approach by the Goddess Morrigan to gather the circle of six to help defeat the Queen of the vampires, Lilith, as she attempts to take over the world. Hoyt has tragically lost his twin brother Cian to Lilith, who was turned into a vampire.  Hoyt now must travel through time to modern day New York, to begin his quest to find his team, to fight against insurmountable odds.

Glenna Ward, a witch and artist, goes looking for the ancient sorcerer who has haunted her dreams and finds him at the nightclub that Hoyt’s brother Cian owns.  She meets Hoyt, who was there looking for his brother.  There was an immediate attraction between Hoyt and Glenna, but each having their own equal powers were reluctant to work together. He being from the medieval times did not like witches, and Glenna, who though differently was as powerful in her own right.  But as they travel to modern day Ireland and find their circle of six, they begin to work together on magical weapons to use against the vampires, their love brings them together.

We get to meet the remaining members of the circle of six.  Blair Murphy is the warrior, descendant of Hoyt and Cian’s, a slayer that fights vampires. Blair is a killing machine and will be the one to train them and their army to fight. Moira is the scholar, who will replace her murdered mother as Queen of Geall, if they win the battle against the vampires. Larkin, a shapeshifter, who is Moira’s cousin. The last of the circle will be Cian, whom Hoyt must convince to help him destroy Lilith.

“Dance of the Gods” – Book #2

This book picks up where Morrigan’s Cross left off. The circle of six is preparing for their final battle with Lilith and her vampire army. The stone circle called the Dance of the Gods is their gateway from Ireland to another world, Moira’s kingdom, Geall, where the battle will take place.  Knowing they do not have much time, training is now in full mode, with Blair handling this aspect.  The circle of six consists of Hoyt the sorcerer, and Glenna the witch, whom we met in the previous book.  Dance of the Gods belongs to Blair, the vampire slayer, and Larkin, the shapeshifter. The next book will of course be about Cian the vampire, and Moira the scholar, the future Queen of Geall.

Blair, is tough and ruthlessly trains them and Geall army, to fight. She works closely with Larkin, who shapeshifts into a dragon.  They realize they are attracted to each other, but Blair is most hesitant, as she is a modern day hunter, and Larkin is a first cousin to the future Queen of the kingdom of Geall, not making their chances of having a happy ending good.  I really enjoyed Blair, she was an excellent warrior.  I found Larkin to be fun, as he was cheerful, loyal and brave. He has become an important member of his team, as he is able to take the form of any animal. Larkin works hard to woo Blair, to overcome her anxieties from her childhood.  He is sexy and very attractive in this book

During the story, as they traveled to Geall, we get to see a few horrific glimpses of Lilith,and her seconds, including torture and horror scenes.  The final battle gets closer, as we move on to Valley of Silence and Cian and Moira’s book

“Valley of Silence” – Book #3

Valley of Silence is the final book in the Circle Trilogy, as it continue’s the story of the circle of six’s preparation for the battle against Lilith and her army of vampires.  This final book will also finally see Cian and Moira discover their love.  With Moira becoming the Queen and leader of Geall, she must come to terms with what kind of future can she hope to have with Cian. Nevertheless, she finds herself falling in love him, and despite the probability of no future with the impending battle, as well as knowing there is no hope for her and Cian, Moira is determined to experience even for a short time, the passion of loving Cian.

Cian being an immortal Vampire, knows the difficulties they would face if they tried to make their relationship work, and though he loves her more than any other women in his long life, he fights off accepting Moira as his. He sees all the reasons he should walk away, if he survives the battle. One being that he could live forever, and as a human, Moira would have a short life span. He cannot have children and Moira, as the Queen, is expected to an heir.  Cian is tormented enough to willingly give up his life in this battle, to save Moira, and the circle of six he has become close to, not to mention his need to kill the hated, Lilith.

“Valley of Silence” is very exciting right to the climatic ending.  You find yourself rooting for the circle of six, to beat the  truly evil, Lilith.  They face insurmountable odds in this battle of good versus evil.  You marvel at how Moira has changed from the quiet young lady, to become Queen, garner the respect of her people, as well as learn to be a fierce and brave warrior in this battle. This was an excellent final book for the series, and the ending makes this well worth it.

Barb

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The Bride Quartet

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The Bride Quartet

 Vision in White

 “Vision in White” is the first of four books in the Bride Quartet series.  The series is about 4 girls, who have been best friends since their childhood.  As children, they loved playing weddings, each taking turns in different roles. “Vision in White” picks up with the four of them running a full service wedding event business.

Parker, who inherited a mansion with a ballroom, forms the company, and together with the other three girls runs ‘Vows’.   Lauren, the cake decorator; Emma, the florist; and Mackenzie, the photographer, the four have created the most sought after place for weddings in Connecticut. “Vision in White” is the story of Mackenzie and Carter.

When the girls were still very young, Mackenzie was the one always bored with the parts she had to do in the play weddings, then she was given a camera as a birthday gift. From then on, she was the wedding photographer, and as she grew up became one of the best capturing great photos. Laurel, was the baker, who can make any cake look terrific. Emma was in charge of the flowers, which always had a special flare.  Of course, Parker was the one who held it all together, especially the details, and keeping the girls in sync with one another.

Carter Maguire was the hero in this first book.  He was a shy, clumsy, smart English teacher.  He was perfect for Mac, as she was the opposite of Carter.  She was the independent, career minded strong woman, to Carter quiet simple ways.  It was fun to watch them fall in love with each other, as well as to see Mac begin to watch for the things that Carter would accidentally break.  Carter wanted Mac from the start, but it was Mac who was afraid of commitment, as she has issues with her mother. This is a big part of the story, showing Mac’s mother, who only comes around when she wants something and Mac cannot handle her.  It is Parker, who usually stands up to Mac’s mother, and the other girls are always there for Mac.  It has been this way since Mac was little, and she would always stay at Parker’s house.

I really enjoyed the entire concept of this story…the friendship of the 4 girls is showed very well.  We learn everything about them.  The other characters, like the men and other family who play a big role in this series.  You get to know them like they were your friends and family.  Nora does this so well.

The weddings were also great to watch.  The planning throughout, the way they each complimented each other to ensure the wedding went off perfect, and men who will play a part for each of them, are always called to help.  It was fun to see the details, the reactions of the bride and groom and their families.

Bed of Roses

“Bed of Roses” is the second book in the Bride Quartet series.  This story belongs to Emma Grant who is the florist at Vows.  Emma is the beautiful one, who always has men who are interested in her, but as much as she enjoys her fun, she has not found anyone she truly loves.  She wants a marriage like her parents, with children and love that will last forever. She just hasn’t found what she is looking for.

Jack Cooke is friends with Parker’s brother Del, and has been friends with them all for years, and considers the girls as family.  Jack is an architect, and is always helping with to do at Vows or for Del.  He begins to admit to himself that he has feelings for Emma that is more then friendship, but tries to avoid her in fear of losing their friendship. But one night, when Emma is stranded on the road, Jack comes to help her, and kisses her.  When she returns his kiss with passion, things change.

Jack has a reputation as a ladies man, with commitment problems. He is opposite from Emma, as his parents are divorced, and it has left him with a bad taste.  Not to mention, Del would not like if he became involved with Emma.  It is Del, who like Parker, makes himself the protector of the girls.  Though Emma is willing to have a relationship with Jack, he is hesitant knowing the danger of losing his friendships.

This book continued the fun reading about the friendships, the bickering, and the threats that could harm the friendship, as well as the romance that develops between old friends, like Jack and Emma.  The wedding planning, the actual weddings and seeing the things that can and do go wrong, is what makes this story fun.  This book was a great continuation of the series.

Savor the Moment

Laurel is the heroine in Savor the Moment.  She does all the baking at Vows, with her creative and wonderful special cakes for the weddings.  Laurel is tough, has a sense of humor that is direct, and though all 4 girls are close, she is probably the closest to Parker.  She lives in the mansion with Parker, as the other two live in their own houses within the complex.  Whereas, Del always treated Laurel like a family member since they have known each other since childhood, it is Laurel who secretly loved Del.

Del became the head of the family once his parents were killed, and he considers all of the girls like just like he would Parker.  He watches over them, handles things for them, and monitors everything pertaining to them.  He is the protective brother for them all. As well as being a good friend to men like Jack, Carter and Malcom. Del also likes to have fun, with the guys and the ladies.

Laurel always hides her feelings, as she felt the Del coming from the prominently rich Brown family, was out of reach for her, even if Parker was her best friend. But a one night impulsive kiss by Laurel to Del, changed everything.  Del couldn’t forget the kiss, and despite their qualms, they both agree to date and see where these feelings will take them.  The key…no sex for thirty days.  There is a lot of sexual tension, and many doubts on both sides that this could work.  All of their family and friends work behind the scenes to help them see how they belong together.  Another reason why this series is so good.  The love and friendship is wonderful to watch, and each book has more fun and details with Vows.

Happy Ever After

The 4th and final book in the Bride Quartet series belongs to Parker Brown. She is the glue that holds Vows together.  She is the friend who has taken care of them all these years.  Parker and Del come from old upper class money, but both learned from their parents, never to let money change how you treat people.  They both have big hearts, and love their family and friends.  Parker is poised, and comes across as stand-offish to those not her friends, but she is just a bit anal with details, and is determined to run the best business she can.  She is the one who has to deal with all the problems, such as crazy temperamental brides, nagging mothers, and even the scared grooms.  Parker is never without her trusted Blackberry, which constantly rings.

Malcolm Kavanaugh, the hunky mechanic extraordinaire, has been around early on in this series.  Knowing how Roberts sets things up in her series, we knew that Malcom would be the one for Parker.  He left home long ago, having had family issues with his father.  But after he made enough money, he returned home to run a local garage, which specializes in repairing, detailing, and fixing up older antique cars. His business has become very profitable.

Throughout the series, the Brown housekeeper Mrs. G has been a mainstay, as she loves all her girls, as well as the men.  It’s her special cooking that brings them together often.  In this case, Mrs. G plays a big part in helping Malcolm and Parker come together.

Malcolm has been watching Parker for awhile, though no one thought they could possible become a couple.  But finally, after much teasing, Parker agrees to go out on a date with Malcolm.  He takes her on his Harley, and they end up having a great time, and another date follows.  It is great to see the two of them discover love, and to conquer many issues for both of them. Parker tries to get him to open up and talk about his past, finally when Malcolm sees that he can lose Parker, he knows he has to trust her and be able to discuss his life. Malcolm understands Parker’s need for full control, and works with her to allow her to let go at times.

This was a great last book. I loved being able to see all the girls and their men constantly throughout the entire series.  They were a team, and the book portrayed that.  We also got to see Mac and Carter get married.   For a fun book, great couples…The Bride Quartet is a great series to read.

Barb

 

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Three Sisters Island Trilogy

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Three Sisters Island Trilogy

Three Sisters Island trilogy, which I consider my favorite of Nora Roberts’s trilogies.   The basis behind this the story begins in June 1692, when the Salem witch trials are in full stem, many innocent women were hanged. The legend goes that three women, who were in fact witches, cast a spell to distant themselves and form a piece of protected land where they could not be harmed and that each of their ancestors and descendants will have the gift and it will be a magical time when all three are gathered in the same spot, the three sisters reunited once again. The series takes place in modern times.

“Dance Upon Air” – Book #1

 Nell Channing is running away from an abusive life, changing her name from Helen Remington. She finds herself drawn to a quaint village on Three Sisters Island. It is on this island that she meets Mia, who is a witch, one of the true descendants of the original witches.  She runs a book store/café, and Nell, who is a great cook, asks Mia for a job in the café.  Mia immediately takes Nell under her wing and knows immediately, that Nell is running from something.

Mia knows she is part of the legend, and has been waiting for the other two to come forth for their destiny.  Mia’s childhood friend, Ripley, has refused to acknowledge she is a witch and she and Mia have had a split in their friendship because of this.  Nell, though determined not to get involved, falls for Sheriff Zach Todd and becomes close to his sister Ripley (she is a Deputy), who is the 2nd sister (witch) of the three descendants. In a short time, Nell will learn that she is in fact the third witch, and is drawn into the legend and the witchcraft. She learns about herself and her powers slowly and with much trepidation.  It is through her relationships with Mia, Ripley and Zach that Nell truly learns about herself. Zach after coming to terms with Nell’s secrets, gradually helps Nell overcome her fear to face Evan Remington, the husband she ran away from, who is indeed evil, and sets in motion for her to get divorced and enable her to marry him.  However, Remington is not about to let Nell go easily.  The ending is very exciting, with a lot of action, as Nell and Zach are in danger from a man who is evilly obsessed and only the power and magic of the three witches together can save them.  Love this book, loved all the characters, the village and mostly adored Nell and Zach.  The camaraderie between Mia, Ripley and Nell is what makes this series so great.  Next on the agenda is Ripley Todd and “Heaven and Earth”.

“Heaven and Earth” – Book #2

Deputy Sheriff Ripley Todd loves her home, Three Sisters Island and its people, but rejects the legend that she is expected, as a descendant of one of the witches in the 17th century, to help save the island. Ripley knows the truth, but refuses to openly acknowledge this, as she fears to embrace her powers, since she does not have control of those powers and will harm someone.

Mackenzie Booke (Mac), a paranormal scholar, loves everything supernatural, and he has come to the island to investigate the curse that threatens to destroy it.   He is also very rich. Mac is instantly attracted to Ripley, as she is to him.  But once she finds out who he is and what he wants, she backs away.  Both Mia and Nell welcome Mac, and have willingly worked with him to understand the curse and the coming danger.  Ripley allows her attraction to Mac to become involved in a “short term fling”, thinking once he gets his story, he will leave.  Mac did not expect Ripley to be so headstrong, feisty, and so adamant against him getting involved in the curse and in dealing with Mia or Nell. Mac, finds he is falling in love with Ripley, and encourages her to embrace her gifts, as well as let Mia teach her how to control her power.  She must eventually choose whether to use her powers to try to save the island that she has promised to protect

It was very emotional to watch Ripley come to terms with her gift, and to make peace with Mia.  Even after all these years, the two of them still cared deeply for each other. Slowly, things were beginning to loosen up between them, as Nell kept trying to bring them together.  Ripley and Mac finally allowed their love for another take control, and not let anything stop them.  The end was very exciting, emotional, and heart pounding, as Ripley with the help of her sisters, and Mac, came through to keep the circle intact and await the final battle for Mia.  This turned out to be my favorite of the three stories, mainly because I loved Ripley and adored Mac.  They were without a doubt, my favorite couple.  Moving on to Mia and “Face the Fire”.

“Face the Fire” – Book #3

Mia Devlin is the most powerful witch on the island, no charm or spell can keep her from having to deal with Sam Logan reentering her life eleven years after he devastated her, and broke her heart.

Sam returns, having bought his family’s hotel and he plans to stay on the island.  He also wants to win Mia back into his life, and take back what he threw away in his youth.  But Mia has moved on and reconciled the pain of losing him, she is not willing to forgive and forget.  His reappearance rattles Mia’s careful control at a most dangerous time. But the ties between Sam and Mia are stronger than her will, as over time, and with Sam eventually winning over Zach, Nell, Mac and even Ripley to help him regain Mia’s love.  It was a funny scene watching Ripley see Sam for the first time in 11 years, and run to punch him in the face….fortunately Zach stopped her.  One of the most emotional scenes in this series was when Ripley finally explains to Mia why she pulled away.  How she felt every emotion (empath) that Mia was feeling after Sam had left her.  She couldn’t sleep, she couldn’t handle the pain, and most of all could not control her powers.  She explained how she almost killed Zach accidentally drawing on lightening.  To see them hug each other crying, and Nell coming into it also crying was one of the best emotional scenes ever.

Sam begins his campaign even as Mia faces a deadlier test than her two sisters have recently gone through. Sam, who is also a witch (water), also tries to get Mac to help him find out everything about the threat, and to help Mia in the upcoming final battle.  The evil force continually is growing stronger and attacks those close to Mia, including almost losing Lola.  Even at the end, the evil force tries to stop each of Mia’s sisters and Sam, to stop them so that they would not there to help her in the final battle.

Mia, with the love of Sam, can thwart the curse only if she trusts him with her heart and soul, and expresses her love for him. However, she cannot totally trust him and fears he will leave her again, and she is not sure she could recover. She remains determined to fight the curse alone, even if she sacrifices her life. Sam, with help from the others, suspect Mia will try something, and he put things in motion to help Mia, without her knowledge. But it is Mia, who must resolve her feelings and make a final choice before she can save the island.  In the end, Mia stood firm against evil, and with the help of Sam and her sisters, the island was saved, and evil was destroyed.

Three Sisters Island Trilogy was a wonderful read.  Each of the books had great couples, and wonderful romances.  The love and friendship between Mia, Ripley and Nell was wonderful to see and be part of.  Each book was very exciting, with heart pounding endings.  Thank you, Nora Roberts for your wonderful writing.

Barb

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