TREASURES OF THE HEART, A Jewels of the Quill Valentine's Day Anthology
SHADOWS IN THE HEART, A Jewels of the Quill Halloween Anthology
CHRISTMAS WISHES, A Jewels of the Quill Christmas Anthology
MAGICAL KISSES, A Jewels of the Quill Valentine's Day Anthology
HALLOWEEN TREASURES, A Jewels of the Quill Halloween Anthology
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SMALL GIFTS A Jewels of the Quill Christmas Anthology Edited by Carrie S. Masek, Jane Toombs and Karen Wiesner ISBN: 1-59374-393-9 (trade paperback); 1-59374-394-7 (electronic) Available from Whiskey Creek Press Click here for a printable order form Order from Fictionwise Order from Amazon.com
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Whiskey Creek Press TOP TEN BESTSELLER LIST for sales
in December 2005 and January 2006!
"When Rudolph
was Kidnapped" (A Mischief in Moonstone Story, Book 1)
{romantic
mystery} by Christine DeSmet (Dame
Moonstone): When her pet reindeer, Rudolph, is stolen from the live
animal holiday display in her small town on the shores of Lake Superior,
first-grade teacher Crystal Hagan has a big problem on her hands. Her
students fear that Christmas will be canceled. Ironically, the prime suspect
is the old man Henri LeBarron who played Santa long ago before he became a
recluse. Crystal marches to his mansion known as the "North Pole" and is
shocked to meet Henri's mysterious son, Peter, who acts even more
curmudgeonly and secretive than his father. To her even greater shock, he
admits to kidnapping Rudolph and he won't give him back.
Peter LeBarron finds his lonely existence charmed by the first-grade teacher who comes to his door with homemade chocolate pudding cake as a bribe for getting her reindeer back peaceably. This isn't the type of woman he's used to in his jet-set world. But is she the type of woman he can trust with the secrets of the "North Pole" and his own past?
"Special Delivery" {ghost story} by Carrie S. Masek (Dame Topaz): An elderly woman's empty life takes an unexpected turn after she accepts a ride from a stranger on Christmas Eve.
"A Kiss Under the Mistletoe" {romantic suspense} by Julie Skerven (Dame Peridot): Five days before Christmas, Joanna Barnes finds herself breaking into Nick Maxwell's lakeside cabin to look for clues to her brother's disappearance. The last thing she expects to find is not at all what she bargained for when she meets the man of her dreams.
"Winter Enchantment" {regency romance} by Jane Toombs (Dame Turquoise): The Earl of Malden, cynical and embittered, is not planning to celebrate Christmas at the Hall. He's vowed he has no use for friends, much less love. But when a cat falls into his bedroom through the chimney, a baby is left on his doorstep and a damsel in distress needs rescuing from a blizzard, his vow begins to come unraveled.
"Deck the Halls" {paranormal suspense} by Special Guest Jewel Cassie Walder: While she isn't at all in a Christmas mood, Laura Hall can't say that she's sorry to see this miserable year come to a close. In one short July evening, Laura lost her husband, her father-in-law, mother-in-law, as well as her brother-in-law and his wife. If Laura hadn't been several states away, she would have been murdered as well. The police are clueless as to the identity of the murderer. As such, their deaths go unpunished.
Running the family business gave Laura a reason to live when all she had wanted to do was to curl up in a ball and die from the pain of losing her family. But of all the things she's lost this year, Laura misses her mind the most. Even though she buried her family in the East Cemetery in the family plot, she keeps seeing them. The departed members of the clan are haunting the factory. And they aren't particularly happy.
Enter Jack Decker, old friend, psychologist and parapsychologist, college professor, and ghost hunter. The sparks between them are immediate--both angry and romantic. Jack is looking for solid, verifiable proof of ghosts. Laura's his best chance of ever getting that. But Laura values her reputation as a level-headed businesswoman too much to be able to admit to the existence of ghosts. What neither of them expects is that her ghosts would have plans of their own.
"A Home for Christmas" {inspirational romance} by Karen Wiesner (Dame Amethyst): Craig Stevens is determined to tell Christie of his feelings for her once and for all. But how does a painfully shy man reveal his heart without voicing the words that could lead to rejection?
Christie Renata Zondervon grew up being passed from one foster family to another. All she's ever wanted is a family, especially at Christmastime. When she met Craig's brother, she thought she'd found the man to build that family with, and she was devastated when it didn't work out.
Craig has been there for Christie since the day they met. He's dried her tears, held her hand, listened to her talk about her hopes and fears at any time of day or night. He believes in her even when she doesn't believe in herself. She's never looked at him romantically before.until he invites her to go to Olympia, Washington to spend Christmas with him and his family. For the first time, Craig begins to show her his heart, and she begins to see him in a whole new light.
Craig has given himself just a few days to convince Christie he can be the man of her dreams. Now it's a countdown to a Christmas wedding or bust!
5 flags! "SMALL GIFTS is a wonderfully touching and heartwarming anthology from the excellent authors of Jewels of the Quill. Again, this collection offers something for everyone and all of it with a warm foundation of romance. From contemporary to suspense to paranormal, all readers can find much to appreciate in this treasured collection. Wonderful characters and enticing, imaginative plots combine to make SMALL GIFTS a true winner, and not just at Christmastide!" ~EuroReviews http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=908
5 stars! "SMALL GIFTS is a read you truly don't want to miss. As you unwrap each story, you are filled with the spirit of Christmas and the miracle of true love. Each of these six authors has put their own creative stamp on a group of stories that will quickly become a holiday favorite. Each story is unique and truly a gift to the reader. I highly recommend making SMALL GIFTS part of your holiday reading." ~Reviewed by Susan for Ecataromance http://www.ecataromance.com/reviews?type=&id=418
4 hearts! "The story collection works well together because the strengths and surprises of the main characters are very parallel. I liked the writing because the stories flow and you move through them quickly. I gave this anthology a 4 rating because of the quality of the writing and also because the characters are like people I know. I gave this anthology a sweet sensuality rating because the stories are written in a manner that leaves out explicit details of the relationships so your imagination can fill in the details of where the relationships are going. Each of the stories has a pair of main characters that also have an enjoyment of life factor that really enhances the story." ~The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/smallgifts.htm
4 angels! "Christmas is a truly wondrous time of year, a time when love, hope, and faith abound. Find Christmas early with these short holiday treats brought to life by the Jewels of the Quill. Christine DeSmet opens the anthology with her lively, Christmas tale, "When Rudolph Was Kidnapped. " Ms. DeSmet knows how to warm readers' hearts and bring a smile to faces. The characters in this tale are personable and fun. The antics of the animals and kids will cause many readers to reminiscence on the joys of a holiday filled with children. Add to this the heat that simmers between Crystal and Peter, and this is a holiday story that starts the season off right. Julie Skerven, Dame Peridot, continues the Christmas theme in "A Kiss Under the Mistletoe." This was a fun, contemporary tale. The characters are instantly likable. Ms. Skerven displays an aptitude for creating characters that portray real situations and feelings. Nick's actions will endear him to readers. This is a quick read that matches two wonderful characters together. Cassie Walder takes a step away from traditional Christmas tales with her paranormal suspense, "Deck the Halls. " Ms. Walder shifts the focus of this tale from the holidays to the relationship between Laura and Jack. The author provides details of the shared experiences that contribute to the long friendship between Laura and Jack. Readers can understand the hesitancy of the characters to cross the line from friendship to something more. As the danger intensifies, the author's use of the paranormal brings about a more than fitting conclusion. "Winter Enchantment" by Jane Toombs takes readers back in time and reminds us of the most cherished gifts in life. Ms. Toombs offers readers a winsome and festive story. This is a true Christmas tale. The parables recounted in this tale serve as a reminder to Robert that wealth, position, and pride are a cold bedfellow. The compassion and innocence of Julia's character plays well against Robert's cynicism. There is warmth that grows throughout the story that envelops the characters and readers in this heartwarming tale. Carrie S. Masek continues the warm feelings and illustrates another poignant side of the holidays in her story "Special Delivery." "Special Delivery" was very touching. Readers can feel the love that Margaret longs to share with others. As she grieves for the loss of her family, readers will share her pain. When she becomes her own "Special Delivery", readers will be moved by the decision she makes. "A Home for Christmas" by Karen Wiesner winds this holiday treasure of stories to an end. Karen Wiesner offers an inspirational romance that will have you smiling by the last page. Craig is a devoted man, committed to the Lord, family and friends. His kindness towards Christie is wonderful to see. The faith they display and the friendship they share is a strong basis for a future together, and readers can't help but hope that Craig gets his heart's desire. In a season beset with hectic malls, endless parties, and the need to complete everything before the bell tolls on the 24th, SMALL GIFTS takes a moment and brings readers back to what is important. These versatile stories offer friendship and love for the holiday season. Readers will enjoy this precursor to Christmas, and it is sure to get readers in the mood long before the temperatures start to chill." ~Fallen Angel Reviews http://www.fallenangelsreviews.com
4 roses! "SMALL GIFTS is another remarkable collection of stories, now with a winter holiday theme, like its predecessor, TALES FROM THE TREASURE TROVE, Volume I. "When Rudolph Was Kidnapped" by Christine DeSmet: This story tugs at the heart of many Christmas celebrations, the children. Through a class of bright-eyed children, older generations find new meaning in community celebrations and traditions. "A Kiss Under the Mistletoe" by Julie Skerven: This is another suspenseful story that moves quickly. Miscommunication and misunderstood intentions, mixed with a little danger and old traditions, can still make for a lovely holiday away from home. "Deck the Halls" by Cassie Walder: This unexpected treat is a tale suited to those who understand or practice the traditions of devout Jews. It is an outstanding suspense tale that will raise goose bumps. There is enough information in the story to understand the religious terms and their significance, for people of other faiths. An enchanting and wild peek into another world. "Winter Enchantment" by Jane Toombs: The characters are endearing as they discover each other in spite of themselves. Regency enthusiasts will enjoy the details of an ‘Orphans’ style Christmas tale. "Special Delivery" by Carrie S. Masek: This is a very fast-paced story, rewarding the reader with a delightful coming home tale. "A Home for Christmas" by Karen Wiesner: A Christian religious theme resounds throughout this story of a young man attempting to travel home for Christmas to allow his family to meet the woman he loves...the attraction between the characters is strong." ~Di for Love Romances http://www.loveromances.com/jewelsofthequillsmallgifts_di2.html
"Teacher Crystal Hagan is beside herself when she discovers that Rudolph is missing from her Christmas display, but she's soon on the case and discovering it isn't too late for love in DeSmet's "When Rudolph was Kidnapped." In Masek's very short "Special Delivery," elderly Margaret Parkhurst meets St. Nicholas and discovers the joy that comes from helping children. Nick Maxwell is holed up in his Wisconsin cabin working on a top-secret computer program when Joanna Barens interrupts him, thinking he is behind her brother's disappearance. But before long, she's stealing "A Kiss Under the Mistletoe" in a cute snowbound tale by Skerven. A "Winter Enchantment" is exactly what the Earl of Malden needs in a delightful Regency from Toombs, which features a pregnant cat, an abandoned baby and a lovely traveler. Walder contributes "Deck the Halls," a paranormal suspense starring a Jewish widow who can't seem to get rid of the ghosts of her departed loved ones. Stranded in a blizzard, Craig Stevens must convince Christine Zondervan that he's the man for her in the inspirational "A Home for Christmas" by Wiesner. ...this is a collection with something for every reader. Don't expect sunshine, though, as most of the tales are set in the snowbound north--a perfect setting to read about on fall days." ~Karen Sweeny-Justice for Romantic Times BOOKclub
Very highly recommended! "'Tis the season to be jolly and what better way then with SMALL GIFTS, A Jewels of the Quill Christmas Anthology. Six leading romance authors have united together to bring you a wealth of unforgettable stories. Each one is a rare jewel that is assured to put a sparkle in your eye and warmth into your heart. These six memorable tales each reveal the true potential of each one of these talented authors. The endless variety each one presents is sure to appease the most selective romance reader. Each one offers a generous proportion of the Christmas cheer that will put any reader into the holiday spirit. It is a true testament that good things do come in small packages. Treat yourself to a delightful holiday retreat. Build a warm crackling fire and wrap up in a cuddly robe with a steaming hot mug of cider. Then grab SMALL GIFTS and sit back for a relaxing unforgettable journey. The experience will be a poetic Hallmark card set into motion." ~Reviewed by Suzie Housley for http://www.myshelf.com/romance/05/smallgifts.htm
"SMALL GIFTS is a Christmas tree of stories dazzling as Yule Tide decorations. SMALL GIFTS is a wonderful Christmas Anthology of stories to melt the hearts of romance readers." ~Rolling Seas Reviews http://www.rollingseas.com.au
3 beacons! "4 lighthouses for "When Rudolph was Kidnapped" by Christine DeSmet: Well written, enjoyable story, which kept me guessing almost to the end as to who the real kidnapper was. 4 lighthouses for "Deck the Halls" by Cassie Walder: Have always liked paranormal stories and this was a well written enjoyable tale. 4 lighthouses for "Winter Enchantment" by Jane Toombs: One of the old type romances. It is nice to read these without having sex written into every second page. Don't get me wrong I like some spice in my stories as well, but sometimes it nice to go back to the old fashioned, everything above the clothes routine. This way you can see a good story, written, without the sex to blind the eye. 4 lighthouses for "Special Delivery" by Carrie S. Masek: Another feel good story, that reminds you what Christmas is really meant to be about." ~Reviewed by Lighthouse Literary Reviews http://www.lighthouseliteraryreviews.com/December2005Reviews.html
"["A Home for Christmas"] (4.5 stars!) was my favorite story in the SMALL GIFTS anthology. Ms. Wiesner writes an excellent novella. While the book is connected to WAYWARD ANGELS [Book 4 of Karen Wiesner's Wounded Warriors Series], it will fully stand alone. I say this because it took me the first couple of chapters to remember I had read the first book. The characters were familiar, but I didn’t put it all together at first. Ms. Wiesner writes a sensitive novella that looks at the fears some of us have. She delves into the fear of failure, fear of flying and other fears. For some of us, these fears can overwhelm and paralyze us and it keeps us from living life to the fullest. It was so tastefully and sensitively written how Craig and Christie work to overcome fears together. I was rooting for them the whole way through the book. I think you’ll get a chuckle out of the misspoken phrases Craig sometimes says. You’ll get an insightful look into Christie’s fear of flying. Craig and Christie’s story is an inspiring look at the way love really can overcome all. As for the other books in the anthology, I enjoyed each one of them. "Deck the Halls" by Cassie Walder...was my second favorite story in the book. It was one awesome suspense story." ~Robyn Roberts for Once Upon a Romance Review http://onceuponaromance.net/AHomeForChristmasReview.html
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TREASURES OF THE HEART
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Nominated in
SEVEN JEWELS OF THE QUILL AUTHORS offer a story featuring a token of love--possibly small, but straight from the heart!
A collection of love stories for readers to enjoy on Valentine's Day...or any day of the year!
"Heart of
Grace" (Angels on Patrol Series, Book 1)
{paranormal romantic comedy} by Michele
Bardsley (Dame Obsidian): The dream of every heart is love...
Grace Talbot's idea of opening a home for down-on-their-luck expectant mothers is crushed by the cold heart and legal rigamole of lawyer Cal Malloy.
Cal has his own reasons for buying the house and property currently occupied by Grace and several very pregnant women. He may be known in the business world as the Iceman, but when it comes to pretty, defiant Grace, his cool exterior melts away.
Little does Cal or Grace know that an angel named Sophie is playing matchmaker...and when love's on the line, she aims straight for the heart.
"Desert Rose" {romance} by Carrie S. Masek (Dame Topaz): In the winter of 1991, an emotionally scarred young widow is determined not to become romantically involved with anyone, particularly not the sexy Marine sergeant who storms into her convenience store and accuses her of selling booze to his underage men. With the help of her two small children, he persuades her to let love back into her life, only to have Operation Desert Storm threaten to steal it from her forever.
"The Sheriff Takes A Wife" {contemporary romance} by Nancy Pirri (Dame Sapphire): Twenty-seven year old model and city woman, Summer Sanders can't believe the advertisement in the newspaper: "Harmon Junction, Minnesota is looking for brides." After arriving home from her last modeling job, she discovers her twenty-year-old sister, Autumn, has left a note that she's moved to Minnesota in her pursuit to find true love and happiness. Because of an air-traffic controller's strike, Summer has no choice but to drive to Minnesota to stop her sister from making the mistake of marrying a Midwest farmer-a stranger. Summer's first 'taste' of Harmon Junction, a tiny farming community, is a run-in with the local sheriff, Nathaniel Whitefeather, who immediately issues her a speeding ticket. When he runs her license, he discovers California has revoked her driver's license because of the non-payment of several speeding and parking tickets.
Once she determines her sister is happy in her marriage, Summer plans to leave for Monterey, California where she's purchased a building for her new clothing boutique. Her plans change when the sheriff informs her that-due to a reciprocal agreement between Minnesota and California-he's obliged to place her under arrest until she pays off all of the tickets. She agrees voluntarily but then learns that she won't be escaping this town quite so easily. She must also appear before the circuit judge, who only makes an appearance in town once a month, to take care of the speeding ticket Nathaniel has just issued her. Summer finds Nathaniel as infuriating as he is gorgeous, and the sparks fly between them each time they're together. But she has a whole different life waiting for her in Monterey. Can she give up her plans for the sheriff who's determined to get her locked up in his jail-or in his heart?
Beneath Nathaniel's cool exterior lies a man with insecurities, a man afraid to leave his home because of horrific things in his past. Will Summer, his dream-woman come alive, convince him to follow her?
"The Sting of Love" {contemporary humorous romance} by Barbara Raffin (Dame Jade): Forest Ranger Kelly Jackson has been given the fluff job of babysitting Hollywood's latest action star as he researches his next movie. When Zack Archer doesn't follow her orders and falls into a ground hornets' nest, she figures she can kiss good-bye her chances for advancement in the job she loves. But Zack proves to be a far more genuine article than she expects from a Hollywood action-adventure star.
"Penelope's Problem" {romantic comedy} by Julie Skerven (Dame Peridot): A carefree, hippy chick in the process of closing her Home Help Agency meets a conservative District Attorney. He needs a home-helper pronto because his mother is being ejected from her retirement home for instigating a food fight. Mix a matchmaking mother and a crystal ball and what do you have? Penelope's problem.
"A Rose for
Romeo" (Adventures in Amethyst, Story 1) {contemporary romance}
by
Karen Wiesner (Dame Amethyst): What happens when a nationally
renown sex therapist and author begins to abhor every aspect of her
successful occupation? She falls in love, of course.
Dr. Melina Rose is sick of discussing, listening to, and writing about sex. She's spent her life avoiding intimacy in her own personal life. After abandoning everything she's worked all her life for, she returns to the small, peaceful town of Amethyst, Wisconsin she grew up in only to discover that everything has changed-everything except her crush on her sister's old boyfriend Scott "Romeo" Romero.
"Heart of Stone" {paranormal suspense} by Karen Woods (Dame Coral): Geologist Katie McCord is being stalked by a person or persons unknown. When threatening deliveries are made to her rock shop, her brother-in-law, the local chief of police, calls in the only man who can help-Katie's estranged husband, Army Ranger, Colonel Steve Moore. The only thing Katie wants more than never to see Steve again is his love. United in the goal of keeping Katie safe, can the two of them survive long enough to work out their problems?
5 flags! "This excellent collection truly offers reading pleasure for almost anyone. From contemporary to romantic comedy, from suspense to paranormal, all of it with a strong helping of romance, hope, and optimist, the seven authors in the TREASURES OF THE HEART anthology will truly leave the reader hungering for more. Well-paced plots and sympathetic characterization rule the roost, and there's a wealth of imagination presented for the reader's delectation. TREASURES OF THE HEART is truly a winning collection." ~EuroReviews http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de/bookdetails.php?book_id=907
5 hearts! "Readers are treated to six warm and heartfelt romances in The Jewels of the Quill’s 2006 Valentine Anthology – Treasures of the Heart. Each story is a stand alone with memorable characters that leave the reader to wanting more. Each story is more then able to stands on its own merits and can be read in any order. Readers who enjoy the Amethyst and Angels on Patrol series will be pleased to know this, however, you will not want to miss all of the offerings of these series. This reviewer found each story to be enjoyable, however "Heart of Grace" and "The Sheriff Takes a Wife" are this reader’s clear favorites. "The Sting of Love" was fun but ...[t]his reviewer would love to see that particular story expanded in to a full-length book. Kelly and Zack’s characters are so well written that even in the short story offered the reader feels a connection to them. The authors offer diverse stories and while each author’s writing style is unique they mesh together so well. One story flows into the next, yet can easily be read out of order. Their talent is clear and this reviewer has made a “note to self” to be on the lookout for stand alone, full-length stories by this eclectic group of writers. While this is a “Valentine’s” release, the stories are for all time and all moods. If the reader is looking for sultry romance "The Sheriff Takes a Wife" is a good choice. For a rainy night home alone and feeling blue "Heart of Grace" will ease the blues and cause the reader to forget the lack of others. In the mood for a good read but not much time check out "The Sting of Love." TREASURES OF THE HEART is a cornucopia of moods and emotions that offer the reader a smorgasbord of choices. In each story the characters connect to each other as well as to the reader. Like a banquet where the diner vows to return to more, so the reader will feel about the entire Jewels of the Quill series. TREASURES OF THE HEART is a great place to start and wonderful introduction to all the Dames." ~Gina from Love Romances http://www.loveromances.com
4.5 blue ribbons! "TREASURES OF THE HEART is written by six Jewels of the Quill authors who have done an incredible job of writing a Valentine's Day anthology that captured my heart. Each story was unique in style and captured the spirit of the romantic holiday. From the first story to the last I was completely hooked. TREASURES OF THE HEART is a definite must read this Valentine's Day and any other day you crave romance." ~Dina Smith for Romance Junkies http://www.romancejunkiesreviews.com/artman/publish/contemporary/Treasures_Of_The_Heart_4529.shtml
4 1/2 hearts! "This was a great selection of stories, all quite different from the next and great fun to read. Very enjoyable." ~reviewed by Glenda K. Bauerle for The Romance Studio http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/treasuresoftheheart.htm
4 cups! ""A Rose for Romeo" by Karen Wiesner: A wonderful romance which will warm your heart with a smile. "The Sheriff Takes a Wife" by Nancy Pirri: A warm lighthearted romance that will have you believing in love and fate. "Penelope's Problem" by Julie Skerven: A comically sweet romance that is written in the stars. "Desert Rose" by Carrie S. Masek: A heart warming story of one woman's chance at love again. "Heart of Stone" by Karen Woods: A great paranormal, where a woman's past comes back to haunt her future. "The Sting of Love" by Barbara Raffin: A funny romance with just the right bite. "Heart of Grace" by Michele Bardsley: An angel doing some matchmaking for her brother brings a lot of joy and tears. This anthology is a very creative and entertaining set of stories. Each story was well written and with wonderful characters of diverse species and beings. Each romance will keep you riveted until the end. With anything from Marines to Werewolves to Angels, all will touch you in their own way. A true GEM for the Quills." ~Wateena for Coffee Time Romance http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/TreasuresOfTheHeartAJewelsOfTheQuillValentinesDayAnthology.html
4 books! ""A Rose for Romeo" by Karen Wiesner: A delightful short story--one of those short stories that doesn’t leave you feeling unsatisfied. I found myself falling a little in love with Scott. He is one of those truly genuine heroes. And Melina was so, dare I say it, sweet. This was a, ha ha, sweet short story that left me smiling. "The Sheriff Takes a Wife" by Nancy Pirri: What a unique story for this day and age. This is one of those stories where opposites definitely attract, and then butt heads. [T]here was definitely passion. I loved watching Nathaniel and Summer fumble about in their path towards true love. It was a delightful story, and I would love to read more of Nancy Pirri’s work. "Penelope’s Problem" by Julie Skerven: Short and sweet! A nice, quick offering from Skerven, who managed in just a few pages to develop two in depth characters that I really cheered for. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. "Desert Rose" by Carrie S Masek: I found this story especially touching. Masek wrote a charming and unassuming hero and a very strong heroine. I also loved the fact that she makes Jack a bit shy. Another of the Jewel authors I would love to see more from. "Heart of Stone" by Karen Woods: Not your typical romance story. Woods defiantly likes to throw twists into her stories, because there is a definite twist to this one. Read this heartwarming and unique short story to find out what makes Kate and Steve so special. "The Sting of Love" by Barbara Raffin: I liked the characters and having an action hero embarrass himself in such a funny fashion was very clever. "Heart of Grace" by Michele Bardsley: I smiled while reading this story. I got all tingly with warmth, I sighed and almost cried. Whew, what a great story. Bardsley wrote a truly heartwarming story about love in all forms. This one will make you sigh and maybe even cry and I can’t wait to read what comes next from this author!" ~reviewed by Zinnia for The Long And The Short Of It Reviews http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2008/05/review-treasures-of-heart-jewels-of.html
"TREASURES OF THE HEART is an anthology of stories that will leave readers craving the melting chocolate of romance. "A Rose for Romeo" by Karen Wiesner: Karen weaves a story to bring renewed warmth to beating hearts. "The Sheriff Takes a Wife" by Nancy Pirri: Readers will be enchanted by the wonderful mix of characters. "Penelope's Problem" by Julie Skerven: A fabulous romp with romance. "Desert Rose" by Carrie S. Masek: This is a story of hope for lonely hearts. "Heart of Stone" by Karen Woods: A romance story with a twist! "The Sting of Love" by Barbara Raffin: Another great anthology romance. "Heart of Grace" by Michele Bardsley: Grace Talbot is a feisty woman with a heart of gold. This story from Michele is pure melting chocolate to the taste buds! TREASURES OF THE HEART is a great romance anthology from Jewels of the Quill authors." ~Reviewed by Dakota Wind for Rolling Seas Reviews www.rolllingseas.com.au
3 1/2 beacons! "Overall, I enjoyed this collection. My favorites are "A Rose for Romeo" and "The Sheriff Takes a Wife", but they are all worth reading in varying degrees. "Heart of Grace" could stand all by itself it; it was a really well crafted short story. ...all were entertaining. This is definitely a worthwhile collection. "A Rose for Romeo" by Karen Wiesner: Rating 4 1/2 lighthouses. "The Sheriff Takes A Wife" by Nancy Pirri: Rating 4 1/2 lighthouses. "Penelope's Problem" by Julie Skerven: Rating 3 1/2 lighthouses. "Desert Rose" by Carrie Masek: Rating 4 lighthouses. "Heart of Stone" by Karen Woods: Rating 3 1/2 lighthouses. "The Sting of Love" by Barbara Raffin [(short but entertaining)]: Rating 2 lighthouses. "Heart of Grace" by Michele Bardsley: Rating 4 1/2 lighthouses." ~Lighthouse Literary Reviews http://www.lighthouseliteraryreviews.com/October2005Reviews.html
3 1/2 hearts! "In “A Rose for Romeo” by Karen Wiesner (3 1/2 hearts), sometimes time can heal old hurts and even keep love alive. It’s a quiet romance where the sex is as sweet and quiet as true love can be. With “A Rose for Romeo”, you’ll take your own trip down memory lane. And sometimes, home is where your heart can truly be. With “The Sheriff Takes A Wife” by Nancy Pirri (3 1/2 hearts), you would think that there’s bound to be a wedding proposal in it. After struggling through the beginning, there’s a lot of sexual tension between the main characters, but it’s causally acted on. Overall the story was a good one and deserves the recommendation that “The Sheriff Takes A Wife” is for anyone who can take love as it comes, and keep it for all it’s worth. Once in a while it is nice to read a story that makes you wish that things could be real, like the situation that arises in “Penelope’s Problem” by Julie Skerven (3 stars)... Overall the entire story is a good one... In “Desert Rose” by Carrie S. Masek (4 hearts), you’re heart will break when Rose thinks she's been betrayed by Jack. And you’ll want to cry a little when Jack finally realizes how much he needs Rose and her family in his life. If you find amusement in sweet young love, then this is a must read for you. ["Heart of Stone"] was a sweet story of the friendship that is found in love, as well as the strength and kindness that it takes. A mystery tale this is, from the beginning you are drawn into it. Through all the confusion, in “Heart of Stone” by Karen Woods (3 hearts), you know that there is an underlying anecdote of forgiveness. And forgiveness is what was needed for the closure to be complete. Overall, ["The Sting of Love"] was a good short story. >From start to finish, you saw the problem and solution. It couldn’t have been better, even if it was longer. A must read for the good laughs you’ll have when you read this novella “The Sting of Love” by Barbara Raffin (4 hearts). Your typical knight in shining armor, that is who Call Mallory is [in "Heart of Grace"]. And Grace is your typical nice, passionate female. These two were destined to fall in love, just how was a different story. In “Heart of Grace” by Michele Bardsley (4 hearts), you find that some things are preordained and some are just for eternity." ~Reviewed by Emerald Nyght for Realms of Love http://www.realmsoflove.com/modules.php?name=Reviews&rop=showcontent&id=18
"If you are looking for a relaxing multiple read then TREASURES OF THE HEART is a book you are not going to want to miss. This reviewer was very engrossed in each story. The only disappointment to be found in this book is the fact that you want each story to continue, as you will be unable to get enough of these characters." ~Tangela Williams for MyShelf.com http://www.myshelf.com/romance/06/treasuresoftheheart.htm
““A Rose for Romeo” by Karen Wiesner: I liked the strong characterizations of Melina and Romeo. Particularly in the beginning of the story, Melina becomes a real person very quickly. A real person with issues, however, and those issues play a central role both in the story and in the readers appreciation for the story. “A Rose for Romeo” is a quick and pleasant read. “The Sheriff Takes A Wife: by Nancy Pirri: I enjoyed the characters. Ms Pirri does a terrific job of developing them through dialogue. “The Sheriff Takes A Wife” is well written with good dialogue...a fun resolution. “Penelope’s Problem” by Julie Skerven: This lovely little story captures the reader from the get-go. Penelope is fun and from a complicated family. Lance comes from the other side of the tracks - the wealthy side. But Lance is more than he appears at first glance, window peeping while Penny wraps up the day, and maybe the business. Ms. Skerven's story has good dialogue, creative settings and a sense of the possibilities in the clash of culture and counter-culture. Politics and aging relatives make for an uncomplicated...memorable read. Fantastic; stays on the shelf! “Desert Rose” by Carrie S. Masek: What a great story! A plot that is appropriate to the format of the story, believable and likable characters, and a story tugs on all the right heartstrings. Ms. Masek hits all the high notes with this one! Lots of great dialogue. The reader can feel the dilemma loving a Marine with no permanent roots can bring. This "man in uniform" story is a keeper. “Heart of Stone” by Karen Woods: I liked the details of this story... The romantic conflict was interesting and thoughtful, and the resolution of that conflict is the best part of the story. Fantastic; stays on the shelf! “The Sting of Love” by Barbara Raffin: This story is short, and just short of being top-shelf. I enjoyed the characters, and the conflict scene works well. More than one kind of sting in this story! Well told and well worth reading. Top read of excellence! “Heart of Grace” by Michele Bardsley: This story is so well written it just shines. ...The story telling...won me over. I loved the characters, I loved the way Ms. Bardsley used dialogue and setting to clue the reader into archetypes appropriate for each character, making the story much deeper and more insightful. A masterly crafted story, and a perfect end to this anthology.” ~reviewed By Jake Langthorn for WRDF Reviews http://blog.lyndacoker.net/2009/06/01/wrdf-review-of-treasures-of-the-heart-jewels-of-the-quill-anthology.aspx
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