TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II
TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume III
TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume IV
TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume V
TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume VI
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TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I
Best Book of the Year (2005, Best Romance Anthology) from Ecataromance!
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Whiskey Creek Press TOP TEN BESTSELLER LIST for sales
in September 2005, October 2005, December 2005 and January 2006!
offer new, short, exciting Tales from the Treasure Trove--each featuring a sparkling jewel!
TWELVE COMPELLING COUPLES
discover romance, magic, suspense, second
chances, true love, and the supernatural.
TWELVE ENTERTAINING SITUATIONS
feature reincarnated lovers, thieves,
vampires, angels, musicians and blind dates, mysterious jewels, masks,
worlds...and even dragons!
"The Best Kind of Opals" {western romance} by Alice Blue (Dame Opal): The Bayer folks have sent their three sons to Utah in search of a rare, precious gem-the opal. As soon as they step off the train and find themselves in an unexpected fist-fight, Luke Bayer realizes that Ma and Pop have something sneaky up their marriage-minded sleeves. The only opals in sight are of the warm-bodied persuasion: Opal Louise Ness, Deena Sue Opalla and Melinda Opal Cooke. The Bayer boys' are about to discover which opals are the kind worth pursuing.
"Diamond Magee" {over-the-hill romance} by Sherry Derr-Wille (Dame Diamond): Diamond Magee, Di to her friends, has returned to Minter after 30 years. Kate is more than willing to set Di up with her brother-in-law, Mel, on a blind date. When Di takes over Mel's Christmas shop to be run year-round, the fur flies.
"Sex with the Man in the Moon" {romantic suspense} by Christine DeSmet (Dame Moonstone): The night is cold and his "family jewels" are hot. During a white-out on Christmas Eve in the remote wilderness of northern Wisconsin, young widow Claire Mickelson finds bloodied, frozen Jack Eberhardt dumped in a snow bank near her cabin. Unfortunately she's taken in what appears to be a notorious, murderous jewel thief. And while he thaws out, he asks her to thaw a little toward him. And his jewels.
"Emerald" {contemporary romance} by Debbie Fritter (Dame Emerald): Emerald Braun won't settle for the Knight in Shining Armor and white picket fence. As a young songwriter, she wants to have a hit song. The only way to get her lyrics out there is to pick up and move to Nashville. Utah Sheridan has lived in the shadow of his famous father for most of his life. When his band, the Night Ramblers, get an invitation to perform at the Opry little does he know that on the stage of the Ryman Auditorium is a treasure he never wanted, or expected to find.
"Garnet's Light" {Troubled Waters Series,
Book 1} {romantic suspense}
by Liz Hunter (Dame Garnet):
Heir to a manufacturing fortune, Miriam Hubbard loses her parents in a
boating accident and receives a diagnosis of a debilitating illness. A
long-time friend talks her into attending a masquerade ball and, in the
antique store where she searches for a costume, she finds a stunning garnet.
Does it really have magical powers that can cure her disease? And is the
charming stranger in town the love of her life, or a con man intent on
possessing that magnificent jewel?
"The Topaz Locket" {paranormal romance} by Carrie S. Masek (Dame Topaz): Will Connor, a cynical antiques dealer, buys a stolen locket and discovers the picture of a beautiful woman inside. She haunts his sleep, becoming more vivid with each dream. Driven to meet her in person, he tracks her down only to discover she's hospitalized in a deep coma, the victim of an apparent mugging. Convinced the attack was no random act of violence, Will must hunt down her assailant before he can strike again.
"Jaded" {reincarnation romance} by Barbara Raffin (Dame Jade): With the help of doomed, eerily familiar lovers from days gone by, Hannah Calder and Jake Griffin learn that scars don't need to wall a person off from life and that it takes more than wealth to create happiness. This time around, they ignore the nay saying, and the rich man and the waitress take a leap of faith beyond their fears and prove that love can overcome all.
"The Ruby Kiss" {contemporary vampire romance} by Jaye Roycraft (Dame Ruby): Radio intern Alena Grace would rather spend Halloween with friends, but she has no choice but to participate in the station's annual Halloween scavenger hunt. Even more dismaying is being partnered with "the spook," late night DJ Ray McClay, who's given her chills since her first day on the job with his pale skin, blond hair, and yellow-green eyes. Designated as the "Vampire Team", Alena and Ray battle each other and the elements to be the first to locate all the items on their list of treasure, including the mysterious Ruby Kiss.
"Peridot Moon" {futuristic romance} by Julie Skerven (Dame Peridot): Tabitha King travels to Mine #12 in search of one of her least reliable bounty hunters. Laurent Fox hasn't checked in for three days. Now she's determined to retrieve him and bounce him from the corporation. However, when she arrives she discovers that Laurent is injured and just barely holding off poachers. When they find a lode of pure peridot in an old, played-out shaft things get hotter. Can Tabitha trust him? Will Laurent see her as something other than the stiff beaurocrat he remembers? Will they find love under the Peridot Moon?
"The Turquoise Mask" {paranormal romance} by Jane Toombs (Dame Turquoise): An unexpected inheritance plunges Jamie Lowell into a dark whirlpool of danger as she follows clues left by her father to where a treasure is hidden. Can she trust Zach Tregath to help her survive the dance of death that waits for her, or is he part of the evil?
"Bloodstone Cure" {The Saurian Series,
Book 1}
{paranormal romance} by Cassie Walder
(Dame Bloodstone): Jason, from an ancient race of
shape-shifting dragons on the planet Sauria, is dying. In order to save his
life, he must find the legendary stones bloodstone and fluorite. On Earth,
he must also locate a female Kindred Soul, a member of his race who has been
assimilated into human society and he must make her fall in love with him as
part of his cure. Orphaned at an early age and raised in foster homes,
Melissa has always felt different from those around her. Jason immediately
recognizes her as the Kindred, but will she love him when she learns what he
is and what he needs from her?
"The Amethyst Angel" {traditional romance} by Karen Wiesner (Dame Amethyst): Elena Lopez's father has decided to play matchmaker with his long-time friend and neighbor, Marta Delgado, when Marta's nephew comes to town. Elena has a secret, though: She's always loved Marta's own son Pablo. An amethyst angel belonging to a dying boy reminds Elena that spending her life waiting for something to happen isn't living and that love must be shared. Can she take the risk of telling Pablo her feelings even if he doesn't share her love?
Reviews for TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I:
4 1/2 stars! "From the enchanting Jewels of the Quill
comes a delightful anthology filled with a dozen short romances. From
contemporary to western to paranormal, there's something for every reader.
Barbara Raffin kicks things off with a clever tale of reincarnated love,
"Jaded." An offbeat take on the popular vampire theme is presented by Jaye
Roycraft in "The Ruby Kiss." A bounty hunter and his boss take center stage
in "Peridot Moon," a futuristic tale from Julie Skerven. Fans of mature
heroines will enjoy Sherry Derr-Wille's "Diamond Magee." And Carris S. Masek
tells "The Topaz Locket," from the perspective of an antiques dealer whose
every move is being haunted by a woman in a coma. The remaining seven
stories--by Christine DeSmet, Karen Wiesner, Debbie Fritter, Alice Blue,
Cassie Walder, Liz Hunter and Jane Toombs--are just as fun. Jewels of the
Quill founding member Wiesner did well when she got these fabulous authors
together. These dames rock!" ~Karen Sweeney-Justice for Romantic Times
BOOKclub http://www.romantictimes.com
5 books! "In the anthology TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I, the characters, unique to each of the stories they inhabit, come alive for the reader. The various styles of the twelve writers in this book give the reader a wide range of stories--paranormal, ghost, futuristic, contemporary, historical, etc., all with heartwarming romance. A gemstone theme ties the stories together. Magic, legends and superstition lure the reader into a variety of environments. Some of the stories like “Turquoise Mask” and “Peridot Moon” vibrate with danger while stories like “The Amethyst Angel”, “Garnet Light”, and “Bloodstone Cure” lift the reader’s heart with hope and inner peace. Humor and the improbability of “The Best Kind of Opals” brings smiles and an ‘oh, come on’ feeling of shared fun. Greed is the most predominate of the Seven Deadly Sins but LOVE overrides the bad to give the reader a happy-ever-after ending. If one looks closely enough, there is a lesson about living in each story along with romance. These accomplished writers have joined together to create a book to read without putting down. After a cover-to-cover read, you'll want to pick it up and read it again and again as times goes by. This is a book to be prized for your library of “keepers”." ~Camellia for The Long and the Short of It Reviews http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2008/01/review-tales-from-treasure-trove-volume.html
5 angels! "The Dames of Jewels of the Quill know how to create romance. TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I, A Jewels of the Quill Anthology is an eclectic collection of twelve romance stories that has something for everyone. Barbara Raffin opens the anthology beautifully with "Jaded"... Ms. Raffin's ability to inject believable emotion into her characters will immediately lure readers into this moving tale. [Christine] DeSmet takes over the quill next and delivers "Sex with the Man in the Moon." This story has suspense, emotion, and a tender hero that will have readers guessing until the end. Who he is makes even the man in the moon pale in comparison. Liz Hunter adds her own element of suspense with "Garnet's Light." In this tale, Miriam Hubbard is still reeling from an emotional loss when fate steps in and introduces her to Noah... Miriam's loss is poignantly felt and as the danger intensifies readers will be caught. Away from the suspense, readers will find fun and more than they expect on the Halloween scavenger hunt found in "The Ruby Kiss." Jaye Roycraft will have readers wanting to conduct their own search once they meet this DJ and intern... The understanding that develops between Alena and Ray is dynamic and fresh, but the Ruby Kiss they find on the scavenger hunt is WOW! [Karen] Wiesner takes a step back from the fun and heat of Ms. Roycraft's telling to deliver a touching story of life, love, and friendship. "The Amethyst Angel" portrays the consuming commitment Elena Lopez has made to the terminally ill children in her care. It will take a special friend to show this caring woman what she is missing in life. The characters in this story will evoke a reaction in even the most cynical heart. Another contemporary tale that is sure to please is Debbie Fritter's "Emerald."... Readers will both abhor and delight in the varied cast of characters. The final lessons learned hold true to life and will make readers smile. Not to be outdone, Alice Blue delivers a western romance that finds not one, but three couples falling in love. In "The Best Kind of Opals"... Ms. Blue's brief visit to the West is filled with fun loving characters that don't like being played for fools. The antics of these three couples, family, and friends will entertain readers as they wait to see what treasure these men take home. Step back to the present and meet Diamond Magee and Mel Larson... In "Diamond Magee", Sherry Derr-Wille offers readers a tender portrayal of love at any age. This is a solid story of the fears and change everyone confronts on the road to friendship and love. As there is always room for more great stories, Julie Skerven, Cassie Walder, Carrie S. Masek, and Jane Toombs add their own Jewels of the Quill to make an even dozen. "Peridot Moon" will transport readers to another time and place as Tabitha King finds herself in the most unlikely situation, trapped with her ex-lover Laurent Foxe... Ms. Skerven enhances their story with extra sensory abilities and a wealth of action. Readers will be wondering if these two well-matched individuals can find out what went wrong the first time as they struggle to survive. "The Topaz Locket" by Carrie S. Masek connects two strangers with the help of a stolen locket... The dream scenes are well done and are an original way to show character growth. Add to this the search for Grace and readers will be as entranced as Will. Cassie Walder rounds out the anthology with an exceptional story of love and acceptance. "The Bloodstone Cure" brings unknown worlds and two fated souls together... The emotional connection these two feel is evident from the beginning. I enjoyed Ms. Walder's use of imagery, shape-shifting and unique caste system within the plot. This is a standout tale wherever it is read. Jane Toombs offers readers an edgier, paranormal romance that is beautifully written. "The Turquoise Mask" captures the essence of a Navajo belief and delivers a tale of greed and love... Ms. Toombs introduces us to two strong, dedicated individuals that are thrown together by circumstance. The respect they demonstrate pairs nicely with the emotions that simmer beneath the surface. This is a more than fitting ending for a wonderful anthology. These talented authors have managed to compile a collection of contemporary, paranormal, suspense, western, and futuristic tales that all have one thing in common: romance. Whether down the road, on an unknown planet, or in the past, these stories come to life with characters that have a love to find. The use of jewels as an additional element to differentiate each story and yet provide a consistent theme for the complete anthology was exceptional. It was an added lure to an already outstanding read to see how each author would incorporate her "jewel." TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I...is not to be missed and has this reviewer anticipating the next offering from the dames from Jewels of the Quill." ~Reviewed by: Amanda for Fallen Angels Reviews http://www.fallenangelreviews.com/August2005/Amanda-TalesfromtheTreasureTroveAnthologyVolume1.htm
5 flags! "TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I is the first entry in a most excellent anthology series offered by the wonderful authors of Jewels of the Quill. Volume I contains twelve stories by multiple authors, and truly there is a story for nearly every reading interest in this fine volume. Almost all include romance, and range from traditional to futuristic romance, vampire to paranormal romance, Western romance, with the intriguing additions of reincarnation romance and over the hill romance! Also included are multiple entries in romantic suspense, and one story in the genre of contemporary fiction. Each author in this collection is well worth pursuing, and this reviewer heartily recommends reading their other stories as well. The TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE series deserves recollection as reads and rereads." ~EuroReviews http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=909
4 1/2 hearts and Golden Rose Reviewer's Choice Award Winner! ""Jaded" by Barbara Raffin: The fascinating sexual tension and deja-vu will grab the reader by the throat! "Sex with the Man in the Moon" by Christine DeSmet: This story is sexy, witty and terrifying. "The Ruby Kiss" by Jaye Roycraft: Tension builds from radio show boredom to Alena’s intrigue with Ray. The subtle turns of the scavenger hunt mask the passion to the surprising end. "The Amethyst Angel" by Karen Wiesner: The Santa Fe backdrop makes this story colorful. The flowery cultural intricacies among the characters don’t overwhelm the story. "The Peridot Moon" by Julie Skerven: The story has engrossing detail about the perils in the mine, the poachers and the intriguing looks from the hero can cause the heart to race. "Diamond Magee" by Sherry Derr-Wille: This is an adorable story that features the hysterical reluctance of our ‘elders’ to reach for love again. This story sparkles! "Emerald" by Debbie Fritter: This story takes advantage of the heat of competition and tension between competitors but it appears to be the beginning of a romance that could light Nashville on fire. "The Topaz Locket" by Carrie S. Masek: This story could be a spooky campfire tale had the two spirits not been so magnetic. This story keeps the reader guessing. "The Best Kind of Opals" by Alice Blue: The story was cute after the young men realized their elders had set them up, complete with small town antics. "The Bloodstone Cure" by Cassie Walder: This engrossing story gently transforms from the mundane to dreamy and fantastical details. "Garnet's Light" by Liz Hunter: Labeled as part of a series, this is a fascinating stand-alone story. There are unexpected twists but the characters are strong. "The Turquoise Masek" by Jane Toombs: This impressive story is a fast-paced, polished suspense with the luster of romance. TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I, A Jewels of the Quill Anthology is a glowing romance grouping with eclectic stories connected to gemstones. Also, enjoy the sparkling secondary characters like the aunts, grandmothers and housemates. Each story samples the author’s genre and there is a little bit of everything in the pages. No two people are going to enjoy this book in the same way and the reader should enjoy the stories that are not their usual style." ~Love Romances www.loveromances.com/jewelsofthequill_di.html
4 stars! "Twelve stories from twelve talented authors. There are stories with restless spirits reincarnated, suspense, and romance. If you like historical romances, no problem. If you like modern contemporary, it's in here. Want a bit of magic? This book will deliver. No matter what type of romance you prefer, chances are that you will find it within this anthology. As I finished reading I found myself wanting more. So I visited the web site HERE to see if "Vol. II" would be forthcoming. YES! The next volume is due September 2006, exactly one year from the release date of the first volume. I can only hope that this will be an annual collection with many years of releases. Many, if not all, of the authors have several novels already in print. So do not think you will be reading second rate stories. For example, I, personally, have several books (Gothic Romances) on my shelf by author Jane Toombs. So my advice is to get Volume One quickly. It may become a Collector's Item someday." ~Detra Fitch for Huntress Reviews http://www.huntressreviews.com/especial.htm
4 cups! "TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE is anthology full of various types of romances from vampires, westerns, contemporaries, to angels and paranormals. Each story is an exciting journey of some kind into romance and life... "Jaded" is a spine tingling romance to be sure... "Sex With The Man In The Moon"...is a sexy romance that will leave you smiling... "A Ruby Kiss" is a fun adventure with a game, and romance is the prize... [With "The Amethyst Angel"] Ms. Wiesner has written a very emotional and heartfelt love story that will have you in tears... "Peridot Moon" is an adventurous futuristic romance that takes you deep underground for some espionage and romance... "Diamond Magee" is a story where two middle-aged people come together, and both learn a different lesson in love... "Emerald" is a tale of one man who gets his friend back and a woman who finds her hopes and dreams... [In "The Topaz Locket"] Ms. Masek creates a tale of a mystical love reaching out to two people... "The Best Kind of Opals" is a western romance, which is a jewel of a tale... [With "The Bloodstone Cure"] [t]wo souls who were destined to meet, even though they live in different worlds... "Garnet Light" is a true case of love finding its way... In "The Turquoise Mask" an ancient mask brings two people together for adventure and love... TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE is full of all kinds of mysteries and romance and just about any kind of adventure you can think of. The characters are well written with interesting histories. This book is a fun read with each unique story being a jewel." ~Reviewed by Wateena for Coffee Time Romance Reviews http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/TalesFromTheTreasureTroveVolume1.html
4 stars! "TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I is a treasure for those who read it. Filled with 12 stories that are as different as the jewels who created them, this anthology will entertain all who read it. Like a box of chocolates, this wonderful anthology offers many different and tasty treats. No matter what type of romance you like, you'll find it here. Each story is captivating and well written, bringing you deep into their characters' lives. This group of talented writers has created a treasure filled with magic, love, and happy-ever-afters. Don't miss adding this impressive lineup to your reading list." ~Ecataromance.com http://www.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=728
3 beacons! "I...love anthologies as it gives you a chance to read new (to you) authors. ...The idea of the authors taking a nom de plume relating to one of the many beautiful stones that surround us, then writing a story about that stone is a rather intriguing idea... "Jaded" by Barbara Raffin: Rated 3 (enjoyable read). "The Amethyst Angel" by Karen Wiesner: Rated 4 (a mini tearjerker). "Diamond Magee" by Sherry Derr-Wille: Rated 4 (good story and nice to see one about the more 'mature' generation who can still fall in love and have all the worries and fears that beset younger members.) "The Topaz Locket" by Carrie S. Masek: Rated 4 (unusual story, well written. Would make a good plot for a full length book). "Bloodstone Cure" by Cassie Walder: Rated 4 (I have liked other Cassie Walder stories and this one didn't disappoint. Idea was good and well written)." ~Lighthouse Literary Reviews http://www.lighthouseliteraryreviews.com/October2005Reviews.html
4 hearts! "Each of these stories is different; very enjoyable reading. Romance, mystery, there is both in each story where something needs to be resolved before one can move on. An excellent mix of characters and plots." ~The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/treasuretrove.htm
""Jaded" by Barbara Raffin: Sometimes you review a story that is so profound you want the world to read it! "Sex with the Man in the Moon" by Christine DeSmet: A great story... "The Ruby Kiss" by Jaye Roycraft: A Halloween story to delight romance readers. "The Amethyst Angel" by Karen Wiesner: ...a wonderful story. "Peridot Moon" by Julie Skerven: A gem of a story. "Diamond Magee" by Sherry Derr-Wille: A gem of a story. "Emerald" by Debbie Fritter: Country music speaks from the heart. "The Topaz Locket" by Carrie S. Masek: A wonderful story to add to this treasure trove of romance. "The Best Kinds of Opals" by Alice Blue: Matchmaking at its best! "Bloodstone Cure" by Cassie Walder: Delightful fantasy! "Garnet's Light" by Liz Hunter: A story to warm the heart. "The Turquoise Mask" by Jane Toombs: Jane tells another great story! Seek the gem and you will find it! This anthology of stories is a treasure trove of jewels for romance readers!" ~Rolling Seas Reviews http://www.rollingseas.com.au
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TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II
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offer new, short, exciting Tales from the Treasure Trove--each featuring a sparkling jewel!
SIX COMPELLING COUPLES
discover romance, magic, suspense, second
chances, forbidden love, and the supernatural.
SIX ENTERTAINING SITUATIONS
feature psychic lovers, spinsters and
rogues, shape-shifters, topless touring boats, mysterious jewels...and even
humans as an endangered species!
Max is crazy, all right ... about Delphi. And he's not a
psychic. He's a clown, a juggler, a fire breather, and unicyclist. In other
words, a one-man show hired for a night's entertainment. But if faking
otherworldly powers allows him to spend the evening with Delphi hunting down
lost jewelry and playful spirits--just call him Max the Medium.
Then there's the angel named Sophie who thinks the clown
and the socialite are perfect for each other...and plans to give them much
more than a ghost of a chance...for everlasting love.
"Heart of Obsidian" {Angels on
Patrol Series, Book 2}
{paranormal romantic comedy} by Michele
Bardsley (Dame Obsidian): Rich and beautiful Delphi
Malloy is the Queen of Charitable Causes. When she agrees to handle
the first annual Haunted Hearts Spookapalooza, a benefit for
down-on-their-luck expectant mothers, she doesn't figure on a real
haunting, a missing obsidian necklace, or a cute, but crazy psychic named
Maximilian the Marvelous.
"Misbehavin' in Moonstone" {A
Mischief in Moonstone Story, Book 2}
{humorous romantic mystery} by Christine
DeSmet (Dame Moonstone): When the men of Moonstone,
Wisconsin, suddenly seem to be off fishing a lot in the summer evenings,
thus cutting down on her new restaurant's business, chef Kirsten Peplinski
becomes suspicious. She discovers a topless touring boat has set up business
in Lake Superior, just outside the jurisdiction of Moonstone. The town's
women object in great furor, giving the old mayor a mild heart attack.
Kirsten becomes the reluctant interim mayor to negotiate with the boat's
owner. But after she comes aboard, Jonathon VanBrocklin announces she's
going to be his wife as part of the trade. He sets sail, kidnapping her for
an evening of romance, insisting on planning their wedding! The rogue even
has a safe full of a dozen white moonstone necklaces--for her bridal
attendants. Once back in town, Kirsten gathers the women for a little
unmasking of this pirate...only to discover the ladies have Kirsten's
"undressing" him more on their minds.
"Garnet Lake" {Troubled Waters Series, Book
2} {romantic suspense} by
Liz Hunter (Dame Garnet): LeeAnn Armstrong is reeling from back-to-back blows: she's lost her job of
12 years with a Chicago ad agency, and even worse, she's lost her beloved
grandmother. LeeAnn seeks solace in the Northern Wisconsin cabin Gramma
bequeathed her on Garnet Lake, where she spent summers growing up.
Former Milwaukee policeman Mike Hastings is licking his wounds at his parents' home on Garnet Lake after the death of his wife and two children. He's vindicated their deaths, having sent the drug kingpin responsible for their deaths to prison. Now Mike lives day-to-day with his sorrow. When he reads an article in the local paper that LeeAnn is back and looking for a handyman, he volunteers. The article includes a picture of LeeAnn wearing a fabulous garnet ring that her grandfather named the lake after, claiming the sunset turned the water into garnet sparkles.
Mike was LeeAnn's first love, first lover, first heartache. Sometimes she questions why she chose college and career over his marriage proposal. Family pressure was responsible, she knows, and now it seems he'll never put his grief behind him. She's grateful to have him around, though, since someone seems determined to find the garnet ring, and is willing to kill for it. Will love heal their emotional wounds and keep them safe?
"For the Love of Sapphire" {American historical} by Nancy Pirri (Dame Sapphire): Spinster school teacher Sapphire Jameson learns that her brother, George, has wagered away his inheritance and is begging for hers as well since the debt hasn't been paid in full. Sapphire leaves her teaching position at a New York City school and arrives in St. Louis, ready to straighten things out. Her heart beats wildly at the idea of being indebted to her brother's childhood friend Patrick--the very man she'd been engaged to eight years ago. She'd broken their engagement, believing neighborhood gossip about his possible involvement with another woman. Sapphire has learned from her brother that Patrick's wife died four years ago in childbirth, leaving him sons to raise. Patrick needs a nanny for the boys. He offers the position to Sapphire to help her pay off her brother's debt. She's never forgiven him for his betrayal, but, with no other choice, she accepts.
Having Sapphire in his home, Patrick wants nothing more than to win her into his arms, his bed, and his heart again. His heart's desire is make this precious jewel his own.
"The Turquoise Cat" {North of Nonesuch Series,
Book 1} {paranormal
romance} by Jane Toombs (Dame
Turquoise): When an eccentric great-aunt dies, Olivia Sumner
unexpectedly inherits her old mansion on Lake Superior, plus an odd
turquoise curio of a creature half human, half cougar. With no idea of what
this talisman means, she faces a terrible danger, one she never dreamed
could exist. Is Raoul DeKalb, the enigmatic DNR officer, on her side, or is
he part of the danger?
"The Amethyst Star" {futuristic romance} by Karen Wiesner (Dame Amethyst): They live in a time when humans have become an endangered species...
Thirty years ago, the men and women of Earth went off to fight in Intergalactic War I, an event which left their world forever altered. With more carbon dioxide in the air, the temperature has risen considerably and made prolonged exposure to the sun deadly. Herbivores have all but disappeared while carnivores have flourished. Man-severely decreased in number-return to find their families slaughtered by the large man-eaters. Answering the call for help to avoid extinction from their earth allies are two races from two very different worlds: The Patrollers are a breed of aliens with extrasensory perception and the ability to camouflage themselves and their charges in any situation. The Patrollers have become protectors to the humans. Hunters from the planet Chaashane have ultra-strength, speed and instincts, allowing them to both track and destroy the elusive and clever carnivores that have become the dominant species.
Greatly outnumbered by the male sex, women have become earth's most valuable prizes in their roles as Procreators. Their eggs are harvested-in an attempt to "grow" a human race comparable to the days before their near extinction-and fertilized by only the strongest males of the species. Pair-bonding is rare. Families no longer exist since children are gestated in labs and then raised in sex-specific institutions. Lady Sher of the Amethyst Star, a Queen and Procreator, is mankind's last hope for survival. The previous queens have been unable to reproduce for years, and no other females are of harvesting age. While Sher dutifully upholds her obligations to her people, her loneliness and personal desires go unmet. More than anything, she longs for true love, to spend a lifetime with the man of her heart-a man she can create and share a family with. Her heart's desire can never be fulfilled...especially not with the hunter Randolf, who fills her waking and dreaming mind with forbidden longings.
On Randolf's home world, all inhabitants mate for life. The sex drive doesn't become active until the age of 21and then only after a mate is chosen. At that time, their desire becomes both unbearable and uncontrollable. In a traditional Chaashane ceremony at the age of 17, Randolf and his clan priest shared a vision of Randolf's life-mate. Both saw the rare star of amethyst. When Randolf heard the bi-annual call for hunters to go Earth and saw Lady Sher, he knew his destiny was leading him there. But humans have never pair-bonded with any other race and, given the current state of the earth, destiny and desire may be impossible to fulfill.
Reviews for TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II:
4 1/2 stars! "Six of the 12 award-winning authors who comprise the Jewels of the Quill are present in this anthology and entertain with each story. Settings are in the past, present and future--and the stories are a mixture of the funny, happy and sad--but all resonate with love and hope from the common focal point of the jewel." ~Donna M. Brown for Romantic Times BOOKreviews
5 flags! "Authors Michele Bardsley, Christine DeSmet, Liz Hunter, Nancy Pirri, Jane Toombs and Karen Wiesner are amply represented in this fine continuation to the TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE (Volume II) series from Jewels of the Quill. Genres include romantic suspense and humorous romantic mystery; paranormal romance and paranormal romantic comedy; American historical to futuristic romance. Lighthearted to tensely suspenseful, realistic to supernatural, you can find it here and enjoy it immensely!" ~EuroReviews http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=910
"TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II is one outstanding book of short stories that readers will love. Laugh, cry, set off on an adventure; this book has it all. Six great romances, six great authors come together to create one magnificent read." ~MyShelf.com http://www.myshelf.com/romance/06/talesfromthetreasuretrovevolume2.htm
"This anthology is even better than the first Treasure Trove volume, if that is possible! Six famous authors have put together six fabulous stories that readers will never forget! Here is romance in all its wild and crazy forms, be they set in the past, present, or future. (The wind whispered in my ear that a third volume is due for release early 2007. I can hardly wait!) If you miss out on this novel, then you miss out on one of the best anthologies of the entire year." ~Reviewed by Detra Fitch for Huntress Reviews http://www.huntressreviews.com/
“Every treasure chest holds one special gem… A sparkling jewel in a crown filled with glinting reflections. "Misbehavin’ In Moonstone" by author Christine DeSmet is a ruby of romantic comedy not to be missed. Another jewel in this Anthology is "Garnet Lake," a romantic suspense by author Liz Hunter. "The Turquoise Cat" by author Jane Toombs is a paranormal romance that has the fur standing up on Mask’s back. "For the Love of Sapphire" by author Nancy Pirri is another gem. "The Amethyst Star" by author Karen Wiesner adds paranormal intensity to the treasure trove of romance stories. "Heart of Obsidian" by author Michele Bradsley is for those who dream of love as first sight. TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II is a romance lovers delight of short stories!" ~Reviewed by Candy Lane for Rolling Seas Reviews http://www.rollingseas.com.au
4 cups! ""Garnet Lake" by Liz Hunter (Dame Garnet): The relationship between LeeAnn and Mike contains a sense of poignancy that will touch the emotions of many readers. The love between them is visible and viable. Garnet Lake is a place that I would love to while a way many an idle summer hour, if only I could. "The Turquoise Cat" by Jane Toombs (Dame Turquoise): This tantalizing tale is set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, which is an area with which I have some familiarity. The setting is an appropriate background for this plotline. Sightings of cougars and other large cats are a part of Michigan lore that enhances the mysterious atmosphere of this paranormal story. "For the Love of Sapphire" by Nancy Pirri (Dame Sapphire): "For the Love of Sapphire" is a sweet and tender romance set in Victorian times. Readers who prefer emotionally poignant tales that are not as explicit will relish this particular story. Love lost and found again makes for a gratifying story that I found thoroughly enjoyable. "The Amethyst Star" by Karen Wiesner (Dame Amethyst): Futuristic plotlines are among my very favorites and "The Amethyst Star" has most of the elements that I enjoy about this particular genre. The unique world Ms. Wiesner has created is enchanting. Randolf and Sher exhibit intriguing traits as they go about their daily lives and deal with the attraction that sparks between them. The storyline is enhanced by a prophecy that one hopes will be fulfilled before the end of the story. "Heart of Obsidian" by Michele Bardsley (Dame Obsidian): A ghost is a unique way to elicit positive results from a tragic situation. Sophie's choice to help her siblings find love touched my soul. The machinations she uses to reach her goal are quite inspired. Ms. Bardsley’s gift for reaching the reader's emotions is sure to win her many new readers. "Misbehavin' in Moonstone" by Christine DeSmet (Dame Moonstone): "Misbehavin' in Moonstone" is a rollicking romp through small town Wisconsin that really captured my attention. Ms. DeSmet is able to use wit and humor in a thoroughly entrancing way. It is not easy to predict what will happen from one moment to the next, which makes for some very interesting reading. This story is the perfect way to round out a volume of appealing tales sure to end up on many a reader’s favorites list." ~Susan for Coffee Time Romance http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Talesfromthetreasuretrovevolume2.html
4 stars! ""Garnet Lake" by Liz Hunter: This was a really nice story to read. It was a heart-warming story that was just plain nice. "The Turquoise Cat" by Jane Toombs: "This...was gripping enough to keep me reading it past my bedtime. One I just had to finish. "For the Love of Sapphire" by Nancy Pirri: Set in the late 1800’s, this is a delightful short story. It reads as a novella with all the spirit and passion you’d expect to find in a longer version. Ms. Pirri has a well written story. "Heart of Obsidian" by Michele Bardsley: This book dovetails nicely into the point where the first one left off. I don’t think new readers will have any trouble catching up on the past. It’s an incredibly quick read and just rings out with fun. Ms. Bardsley has written a quick-witted, fun romantic comedy. "Misbehavin’ in Moonstone" by Christine DeSmet: This is probably my favorite story in the book. It’s a mystery, a romance and a comedy all rolled into one. Ms. DeSmet has a wonderful sense of humor that really shows through. Some of her word choices had me in stitches. I should also point out that for a book that’s second in the series, it really stands alone so new readers won’t be lost. "The Amethyst Star" by Karen Wiesner: I loved how Sher and Randolf fight the attraction they feel for each other. Plus the prophecy over Randolf adds an aura of mystery. Ms. Wiesner has written a futuristic book that is easy to read and follow. If you’ve never read a futuristic book, this would be a good one to cut your teeth on. Since it’s Earth in the future, it’s easy to understand and follow what happens... By the end, I couldn’t stop reading. It’s a very compelling story that keeps you on the edge until the end. The fulfillment of the prophecy came out of nowhere to me. It was not at all what I had expected, yet it fit the story perfectly... I also thought it was a nice length as a novella. It felt finished and didn’t feel like we had to gloss over parts to get the shortened format. Ms. Wiesner has another well-written book to her credit. Let’s just say we’ve got another "keeper" from Ms. Wiesner!" ~Robyn for Once Upon A Romance Review http://www.onceuponaromance.net/TreasureTroveIIReview.htm
4 stars! ""Garnet Lake" by Liz Hunter: An entertaining story. "The Turquoise Cat" by Jane Toombs: I am a cat lover, so how could I not like this story? "For the Love of Sapphire" by Nancy Pirri: This is a delightful tale of forgiveness and love. The interaction between Sapphire and the boys was heartwarming. "The Amethyst Star" by Karen Wiesner: There is a strong message behind this short story, one that humans need to heed. "Misbehavin’ in Moonstone" by Christine DeSmet: Combines just the right amount of humor and romance to form an entertaining read. TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume II, A Jewels of the Quill Anthology, has six enchanting romance stories. Each short story is by a different author, and the connecting thread is a gem or the name of a gem. "Misbehavin’ in Moonstone" was my favorite. I like a romance with lots of humor. Fans of romance will enjoy this volume." ~reviewed by Debra Gaynor for ReviewYourBook.com http://www.reviewyourbook.com/review.cfm?reviewid=512&k=1
3 1/2 crowns! "Overall, this was a very solid selection of stories and the varied types of plots will keep the readers’ interest. Tastes vary but all should find within this tome a jewel that they will treasure. "Garnet Lake" by Liz Hunter (4.5 crowns): This is a charming story of first loves that find each other and fall in love again. Readers will thrill at the rediscovery right along with the main characters. The hero’s sweet protective ways are sure to please, as does the answers to the mystery. "The Turquoise Cat" by Jane Toombs (4.5 crowns): The hero’s affliction was very well portrayed and it was fascinating to read about the unclear memories that assailed him with each episode. Both characters were well drawn with the background history adding an understanding of their natures. This was a gentle romance that managed to be satisfying and endear at the same time. Ms Toombs built up a good paranormal romantic suspense. "For the Love of Sapphire" by Nancy Pirri (3 crowns): The characters were written well. Flashes of humor and pleasant reminiscing of Sapphire and Patrick did add appeal. "The Amethyst Star" by Karen Wiesner (4 crowns): There was much to be explained regarding the different beings and the severely regulated human social order to give a good basis for this story. Ms. Wiesner was certainly up to the task. Readers of futuristic and alien romance should well enjoy this tale. "Heart of Obsidian" by Michele Bardsley (2 crowns): Sophie’s character as an angel helping her sibling find the true love that she had not found for herself during her life made for an interesting premise. "Misbehavin' in Moonstone" by Christine DeSmet (3 crowns): ...readers...will enjoy the more obvious style of humor. The descriptions of food...were quite tempting." ~Realms of Love http://realmsoflove.com/modules.php?name=Reviews&rop=showcontent&id=105
Fantastic; stays on the shelf! “Garnet Lake” by Liz Hunter: Liz Hunter is a fabulous writer. She captures your imagination and interest from the very beginning. The characters are lively and down to earth, easily to relate to each and everyone. The story, the plot and the characters were riveting! I recommend this to anyone who wants a feel good story. Fantastic; stays on the shelf! “The Turquoise Cat” by Jane Toombs: Writer Jane Toombs promises adventure, romance, and suspense in this story, and she delivers! The characters are very likeable. Jane presents a unique and interesting revelation about Raoul, that I'll not disclose at this time, but that will keep you reading and wanting more. This is a definite must read! “For the Love of Sapphire” by Nancy Pirri: Although I am not a historical romance fan, author Nancy Pirri wrote a remarkably well story set in the 1800's. Her prose and descriptive dialogue stay true to the era in which the story composes itself. The story itself is predictable, but the characters come to life leaving you, wanting to know more of them. “The Amethyst Star” by Karen Wiesner: The author certainly gave the characters life. Randolf is strong, confident and compassionate. Lady Sher is noble, curious and naive, as well she should be. The story itself had a flair of futuristic idealism. I enjoyed reading about the different cities and what they represented. Fantastic; stays on the shelf! “Heart of Obsidian” by Michele Bardsley: Michele Bardsley promises a good tantalizing story, and she delivers from the very beginning. The characters and story were very believable and captured me from the first paragraph. You definitely won't be disappointed with this charming couple and sneaky Angel. A must read! Top read of excellence! “Misbehavin' in Moonstone” by Christine DeSmet: I loved it! Chistine DeSmet writes an enjoyable and witty story. The characters are funny, believable, and entertaining. Jonathan's attempts to marry Kristen brings out a hilarious set of circumstances in Moonstone. I immediately fell in love with Kristen's grandmother. The story left me laughing and wanting more. I had a hard time putting it down.” ~reviewed by Annie Alvarez for WRDF Reviews http://blog.lyndacoker.net/2009/05/28/wrdf-review-of-tales-from-the-treasure-trove-volume-ii.aspx
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