At Home in Mitford/A Light in the Window/These High, Green Hills/Out to Canaan/A New Song/A Common Life (The Mitford Years 1-6)

Amazon.com

Welcome to Mitford, North Carolina, the small mountain town at the center of Jan Karon's bestselling novels about rector Father Tim and the heartwarming cast of characters surrounding him. This boxed set includes paperback editions of the first four books in the series: At Home in Mitford, A Light in the Window, These High, Green Hills, and Out to Canaan.

Book Description

Readers everywhere have discovered Mitford is good for the soul. Peopled with a lovable cast of characters and filled with mysteries and miracles, Mitford has become one of the most memorable small towns in recent literature.

Boxed set includes:

At Home in Mitford
A Light in the Window
These High, Green Hills
Out to Canaan
A New Song
A Common Life

Customer Reviews:

At Home in Mitford.......2007-09-28

So, far I have gotten through the first book for class. I am a person drawn to "story", so this book is one I am reading for my ISSUES OF INTERGRITY class at my seminary, and it really speaks to me (and its not that bad of a read either). Sometimes I am weary about the number of pages, yet the story itself about Father/Rector Tim keeps me glued for hours, which has not happened in a while. There is also a subtle irony in the title, because Tim doubts some in the book if this is where he should be or not. Its almost a transitory title, it could be called "For Now At Home In Mitford" - but I guess that would seem too long.. ha ha

The Mitford Years (1-6).......2007-09-28

Because of a sudden death in my family I haven't had time to read but about 1/2 of the first book (At Home in Mitford) in the boxed set. After reading only 1/2 of the first book I would recommend it highly

Wonderful Series.......2007-06-06

I have read this series myself and have given it several times as gifts. This purchase was a gift for my best friend. I previously gave it to my 102-year-old aunt, my mother and my neighbor. Everyone I know who has read these books, loves them.

AT HOME IN MITFORD BOX SERIES.......2007-06-01

THIS ORDER CAME VERY QUICKLY! IT WAS A VERY NICELY PACKAGED GIFT THAT I WAS PROUD TO GIVE. MOM WAS VERY HAPPY!

Absolutly Delightful!.......2007-05-07

This set of books set in Mitford are such a pleasure to read. Part way through you begin to feel like you, too, are a citizen of this wonderful town. Jan Karon sure can write! I would reccomend them highly.

These High, Green Hills (The Mitford Years #3)

Average customer rating:

Jan Karon
Third in the series
Prompt and reliable
Wonderful... as are all of Jan Karon's books!
Karon Satisfies Cravings

These High, Green Hills (The Mitford Years #3)
Jan Karon
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0140257934

Amazon.com

The village of Mitford is soothing tonic for a readership that feels starved for community and yearns for clear morals. The recently married Father Tim and his plain-folk neighbors live the best of Christianity in everyday life. Even the rampant gossip in Mitford is the good kind: folks worrying about other folks and everyone minding one another's business out of concern rather than malice. As a result, no one faces a crisis alone. Often the crises are cause for a belly laugh, such as the rectory's new computer system that seems programmed to torment. But just as often the crises have the bite of real-life problems, such as the bloody young girl in shredded clothes, whom Father Tim finds after she was beaten by her drunken father, and the soul-wrenching despair Father Tim feels when he loses a surrogate mother. The heavily quoted scripture gives a day-to-day context for biblical teachings as well as spiritual solace during the sadder days at Mitford. --Gail Hudson

Book Description

For years, Mitford's sixty-something rector has been happily married to his parish. Now he's also married to Cynthia, his vivacious next-door neighbor. For Father Tim, life in Mitford has never been so full of surprises. His wife is "aging" his already ancient kitchen walls, not to mention burning his draperies. The mountain boy he's learned to love as his own makes a heartrending decision. And the agony of mastering the church computer system is as boggling as the pandemonium that breaks loose when his quiet rectory becomes a nursery. All this, however, is small potatoes compared to what happens on a wilderness camping trip that sends him home a changed man. In These High, Green Hills, Jan Karon takes her readers on a heartwarming and hilarious visit to Mitford, where her lovable characters always inspire laughter, tears, and fresh hope.

Customer Reviews:

Jan Karon.......2007-10-03

I love this series and would hope everyone would read it. It is how life should be.

Third in the series.......2007-04-17

Cynic that I am, I do not usually like any book that could be described as "heartwarming," and this book has been described with that adjective. So why am I not giving it a review of only one star? Because despite myself I enjoyed the book. I know it is manipulative in the extreme. I realize that Ms. Karon stacks the cards to make everything come out well--e.g. when Father Tim and wife are lost in the cave and rescued before they suffer more than mild thirst. The whole thing is akin to the old western movies where the sandy streets are filled with horses but there is no horse manure--ever. Mitford just doesn't have any hardcore villains, no real crime, no manure. When people curse, we don't actually hear the words. It is, in effect, Pleasantville.

The fact is, this and the first two installment are not novels at all by any strict definition. There is no real plot that works throughout. Rather, there are mostly minor incidents that soon get resolved or are left over for the next book. Oh, people die and babies are born and there are marriages. But nothing of real moment happens outside the pale. Jeopardy does not enter into this little mountain town.

I must admit that I am troubled at times by the theological intrusions. These seem to increase with each book so far. Father Tim, the central character, is an Episcopal priest, so religion is unavoidable within the narrative. Alexander Pope, the 18th century English poet, warned us to beware of anyone with only one book, be it the Koran or Bible or Catcher in the Rye. Not every solution or measure or value can be found in one work. And not all of Father Tim's solutions are found in one book--or so it seems to me.

But it is comfortable for a reader to go to Mitford for a few hours, and in the final analysis, the real reason we read is to enjoy, to escape, as it were. Mitford is an escape from the more trying events of the real world. I'm now on the fourth installment of the Mitford books with five more to go. I look forward to the trip.

Prompt and reliable.......2007-01-12

This item arrived within a few days and was in the condition as stated.

Wonderful... as are all of Jan Karon's books!.......2006-05-12

Mitford is the kind of place that we would all love to live.... a slpeey little town in the mountains where you know your neighbors. I recommend buying this book... and curling up in your favorite chair with a warm blanket and cup of hot chocolate! Turn the phones off and slip away... I guarentee that you won't want to come back!

Karon Satisfies Cravings.......2006-03-20

For those who have been craving yet another helping of Mitford, Jan Karon's, These High Green Hills will surely satisfy your appetite. This third book in the series immediately dives into the newlywed lives of Tim and Cynthia Kavanagh. As frequent Mitford readers know, Tim's marriage to Cynthia came as a shock to everyone, including Tim himself. Being a bachelor for over sixty years had definitely created many habits that Tim finds hard to break. However, with Cynthia's bright spirit, and ever flowing creative juices, Tim soon realizes that change is inescapable, even in the small town of Mitford.
While Tim plunges into married life, many of his closest friends experience variation in their lives as well. Tim's surrogate son, Dooley ventures into the world of private education, thanks to benefactress, Ms. Sadie Baxter. Though she is aging, Ms. Sadie shows the same old spunk, and continues to develop her lifelong friendship with her domestic employee, Louella. When the town helps Ms. Sadie celebrate her ninetieth birthday, the future seems as bright as ever. However, Ms. Sadie takes a turn for the worst when she falls and injures her wrist. Despite the worries of her health, everyone anxiously awaits the completion of The Hope House Retirement Home, Ms. Sadie's largest contribution to Mitford. She is providing the money in honor of the Episcopalian church, where Tim holds the pastoral position. Since Father Tim resides as her priest [her most beloved in her years of membership], Ms. Sadie gives him the task of finding a chaplain for the home. Apart from the worries of this job, Father Tim must still fulfill his duties to his parish, including the labors he detests. For instance, the understanding of technology. Due to the slow progression of Mitford, hardly anyone knows much about electronics, especially computers. However, the church soon discovers that a computer is a must for keeping things organized. Will Tim win the technological battle with his longtime secretary, Emma Newland? Change is forever creeping into the quiet peace of Mitford.
Beyond the borders of the small town lies a rough area known as `The Creek'. Poverty, drugs, abuse, and much more are prevalent throughout this domain. As Father Tim becomes more involved with helping the people in this area, the struggles become involved with him as well. Several situations leave him feeling helpless, and he must rely solely on his faith in God's strength. Tim and Cynthia encounter another faith-testing experience when they agree to help chaperone the youth camping trip.
Throughout the ups and downs in the hills of Mitford, Tim continues to learn the meaning of true faith, and that God is in complete control. He professes this lesson to others during the story, amongst birth, death, romance, new life, and whatever else is served to the town of Mitford. Karon has truly outdone herself this time. She's shaken things up a bit, which leaves readers with the usual: still hankering for more!!

At Home in Mitford/A Light in the Window/These High, Green Hills (The Mitford Years 1-3)

Average customer rating:

The Second Go Around
Volume 1-3: At Home in Mitford
Warm, engrossing stories of everyday life in a small town
Wonderful place to visit!!!
Please don't stop this woderful series!

At Home in Mitford/A Light in the Window/These High, Green Hills (The Mitford Years 1-3)
Jan Karon
Manufacturer: Penguin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0147712033

Book Description

Customer Reviews:

The Second Go Around.......2007-09-25

These books were purchased for my son who reads them every semester. They are his stress relief and he has just about worn out my copies. I got him these so I could have mine to read. Jan Karon has a wonderful way with characters - you know some of the people she writes about. The books are wonderful reading. Light but filled with the sorrows of life as well. Through these books you are encouraged to deepen your walk with God as He is portrayed so accurately.

Volume 1-3: At Home in Mitford.......2007-02-17

Upon recommendation of the a church librarian, we gave these books to my aunt in Texas. She has enjoyed reading them and appreciated their humor and the real life presentation. She thought they were great and is interested in others from the Mitford series.

Warm, engrossing stories of everyday life in a small town.......1999-11-16

The Mitford books are the most wonderful heart-felt adventures in small town living. The characters are real, their real-life problems and victories speak to all of us, and the feel of goodness and Christian faith stay with you long after the books are finished. Unforgettable! I wish Father Tim were the rector in our parish...

Wonderful place to visit!!!.......1999-09-06

The style of writing in this book transports you there!! I feel like I know these people after reading this series! Maybe because there is a little bit of all of these characters in each of us or we at least know someone like them!!! I look forward to all the Mitford books. Wholesome, fun, and easy to read!!

Please don't stop this woderful series!.......1999-05-31

I didn't think it was possible however, the second installment of the Mitford Series was just as warm, wonderful and cozy as the first! At last, it is such a pleasure to read a series of books dedicated to mature love with decency and something left to one's imagaination. I cannot thank Ms. Karon enough for bravely showing the timeliness and gentleness of what the gift of patience brings to those whose choose to wait on God and to wait for the other person to learn about themselves so that they may into share that knowledge in learning to love someone to include them in their life in marriage!

The literary world has been in need of such a refreshing style and gentleness of touch. That you again, Ms. Karon for giving us back love, respect and commitment.

Customer Reviews:

Sharyn McCrub.......2007-07-16

Any book that Sharyn McCrumb writes is going to be an excellent read. Grab a cuppa "joe" or tea, put your feet up and enjoy! Just be sure you have plenty of time because once you start, you are going to want to finish at one reading. My Grandmother was gifted with "The Sight" and my mother is also gifted with "The Sight" and so I always enjoy the books that include "Rattler" and "Nora".

Unusual Weaving of History Into Fiction.......2007-02-22

Sharyn McCrumb's She Walks These Hills is set in eastern Tennessee in the early 1990s, a time before cell phones when people found it easier to disappear into the mountains. McCrumb builds her storylines around a fictionalized historical event of a young woman kidnapped by Indians in the late 1770s, bringing that idea into the modern-day world of an escaped convict and an understaffed police department searching for him.

There are many different characters populating this story, most of whom are colorful and interesting as brought to life by McCrumb's expert writing. The story moves back and forth between the situations and characters, giving us sympathetic looks at "hardened criminal" Harm Sorley, aspiring policewoman Martha Ayers, Ph.D. candidate Jeremy Cobb, local deejay Hank the Yank, hick teenager Sabrina Harkryder, and local wisewoman, Nora Bonesteel. There are several other characters involved as well, and all this jumping around can be a bit unsettling at times. Expecting more of an historical element apparent based on previous readers' comments, I was a little disappointed in that particular aspect of the novel. The mystery is good, however, though a bit transparent.

This is an easy read, and one that would easily fulfill anyone's appetite for a good whodunit. Things get tied up neatly by story's end, and that's the most important thing in a book of this nature. Enjoyable.

Entertaining Read.......2006-08-23

It took me a couple of chapters to get into the "rhythm" of the storytelling. After that I had a hard time putting the book down because I needed to know what happened to the individual characters. The author did a good job of describing the characters and the locale. I enjoyed it very much.

Read it twice becouse I just loved it.......2005-12-31

Mis.McCrumb tells a great tale. Best of all here Appalachion tales

good summer read.......2005-08-21

Had to buy this book for a class on Appalachia history & was not looking forward to reading it. But I was pleasantly surprised--it was a fun and easy book...great summer book!

OZ: Behind These Walls: The Journal of Augustus Hill

Average customer rating:

Augustus Hill's Diary
Not quite what I was expecting.
Never ceases to amaze
One of the best books I have read
Nothing New

OZ: Behind These Walls: The Journal of Augustus Hill
Augustus Hill
Manufacturer: HarperEntertainment
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0060521333

Book Description

OZ: Behind These Walls is the secret journal of Augustus Hill, the show's wheel-chair bound main character. He's been keeping a diary about Oz for the past 5 years and wrote a letter requesting that if he should die, the book be published to show the world what goes on behind the walls of Emerald City.

In his book, Augustus postulates on all aspects of Oz life - the rapes, lies, sex, stabbings, drugs, lost time, love and murder. With each entry, he highlights major events that have happened and offers his particular take on it. As the publisher of his book, we've taken Augustus' journal and added our own editorial sidebars -- some on OZ itself, with R.I.P pages and Poet's poetry -- others on various prisons and prison policies from around the United States, to give the reader a more indepth view of real prison life.

The book also includes an Epilogue by Tom Fontana, creator of OZ, and an Episode Guide of the last 5 seasons of this groundbreaking show. Last but not least, the story behind the book is written into every new episode of the final season of OZ, making it not only a great fan keepsake, but a publishing event.

Customer Reviews:

Augustus Hill's Diary.......2005-06-29

I loved this book. I am a fan of Oz but not a huge fan. The book gave a strong voice to the show and I loved that way the diary of Augustus Hill illuminated the episodes and the shows without being a plain episode guide. It was well written and absorbing. I thought it was quite entertaining and led me to understand better. There are also non-fiction excerpts from books, newspaper articles, etc. which illuminate how the prison system in America functions. Good book. A good read.

Not quite what I was expecting........2003-11-09

I've been a huge Oz fan for many years now and it greatly excited me to get this book, but I was sadly disappointed with it after reading the first 20 pages. This book is nothing but an extended episode guide, which is something you can find anyplace for free online. It also has detailed describtions of each episode until the end of Season 5, but unfortuanately, it looks like most of these describtions were just blatantly copied off of hbo.com and placed into this book. If even a die-hard Oz fan like myself didn't enjoy this, then I'm not sure you will either.

Never ceases to amaze.......2003-06-20

I'm currently reading the book. It's good so far, but a lot WAS left out b-c it's only from Augustus' point of view. A lot of good stuff is missing. It's interesting seeing things from Augustus' view. It's good and I am able to understand better what Augustus means b-c I watched all 6 seasons.

One of the best books I have read.......2003-03-25

With this book you enter the mind of Augustus Hill, a wheel chair bound inmate who is also the narrator. It clearly depicts life in a prison. OZ: Behind These Walls: Journal of Augustus Hill lets you become part of an experimental lab inside Oswald State Correctional Facility known as Emerald City. It is an accurate description of what goes on behind jail bars from rape to sex to murder and drugs. You will truly feel like you are amidst the inmates. It is written in such a way that you "get to know" each character. Everything from what they did to get into Emerald City to the day-by-day trials and tribulations that they face on a day-to-day basis. When something happens to one of the characters you feel almost as if it happened to someone in your family.

Leo Glynn is the warden at Oswald State and Timothy McManus runs and created Emerald City. They worked together because they wanted to make a better living environment for prisoners who had capabilities of rehabilitation. Sister Peter Marie is the psychologist that works with Father Ray Mukada to help rehabilitate the inmates. Gloria Nathan is the doctor for the inmates and creates jobs for them so they are doing something positive with their time.

The best emotion depicted in this book is FEAR. Fear of living, fear of dying, and fear of fear itself. Augustus explains this through his eyes with each word he writes. As a wish he asks to have this book published so people can see what goes on behind the walls of a prison.
I enjoyed this book because of how detailed it was and how well it was written. I didn't get the chance to watch the show on HBO so it was a privilege to read about it and imagine it in my own way. This book also gives out interesting facts about court cases and prisons that a lot of people wouldn't know about. OZ: Behind These Walls will keep you wanting more to the point you will not want to put this book down. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about prisons or prisoners. There is not another book like this and I think publishing this book made a great way to remember the show and keep its memory alive.

Nothing New.......2003-03-15

I bought this book knowing it was a marketing tie-in for HBO, so I suppose I shouldn't be disappointed. But I was. Augustus Hill's "journal" is really just an extended summary of Oz episodes, without any of the new stories or new insights I'd been hoping for. And because it's all told from Hill's point of view, some story lines (like the Beecher/Keller story that's a big draw for many Oz fans) are only treated very briefly. The writing style is almost painfully dull, which is strange given the relatively good writing of the show and the strong narrative voice the show gave to Hill's character. I also found the book's chronology very peculiar, perhaps because the events of Oz's short, 8-episode seasons had to be spread out into a continuous narrative.

On the plus side, it's a handsomely produced book, on a nice glossy paper stock with plenty of photos. I liked the occasional sidebars about the real world of American prisons, though sometimes these felt a bit preachy (and I'm a liberal, generally in agreement with the politics of the show, and the book).

Book Description

In the harsh Scottish highlands of 1565, superstition and treachery threaten a truce between rival clans. It's a weak truce at first, bound only by an arranged engagement between Anne MacGregor and Niall Campbell-the heirs of the feuding families. While Niall wrestles with his suspicions about a traitor in his clan, Anne's actions do not go unnoticed. And as accusations of witchcraft abound, the strong and sometimes callous Campbell heir must fight for Anne's safety among disconcerted clan members. Meanwhile his own safety in threatened with the ever-present threat of someone who wants him dead. Will Niall discover the traitor's identity in time? Can Anne find a way to fit into her new surroundings? Will the two learn to love each other despite the conflict? With a perfect mix of a burgeoning romance and thrilling suspense, this book is historical fiction at its best.

Customer Reviews:

Good but not Great.......2007-09-19

While this series is not unenjoyable it isn't a "can't put it down" one either.

I loved this book, I read it in three days and couldn't put it down........2007-05-06

CHILD OF THE MIST was a well-written romantic story that brought Christian values into the mix. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reeding her others.

Dull and Predictable at Best.......2007-03-14

Morgan hooks the reader early on in her story telling. I was excited and anticipated not only the rest of the book but also the rest of the series. However, by trying to cultivate some sort of romance between the main characters, Morgan's story quickly became predictable and dull, at best. I forced myself to finish the novel in order to properly critique it and finishing the story felt like work, instead of enjoyment. I ended up reselling the book at a used book store. Save your money and time- get something else.

Unable to finish this.......2006-02-16

Wolf's lady...

Betrayed by his own kinsman, Niall Campbell was cast into the dungeon of his enemies, the cursed MacGregors. In exchange for his life, the fierce Wolf of Cruachan had to end the Highland feud and join the warring families by handfasting himself to the spirited heiress of clan MacGregor.

At first, young Anne had no desire to be locked away in a castle keep with the dreaded warrior. But after Niall stormed the battlements of her yearning heart, she eagerly succumbed to his fiery kisses--only to discover a secret enemy who had the power to crush their newfound love like a handful of heather.

And my review:

What is the big deal about this book? I tried to read it and couldn't even get to the third chapter. The author tried to make it interesting by stuffing it full of political intrigue. Instead of being entertaining, this made it boring and confusing. The author tried to throw so many characters and details and plot twists out right away that I was as lost as if I'd been dropped in the middle of a jungle without a map or a compass.

Do I recommend this? Only as a cure to insomnia. Would I try another book by this author? No way.

Disappointing.......2005-12-13

Had I read this book prior to reading Liz Curtis Higgs trilogy I might have given it a higher rating. But, after reading it on the heels of "Thorn In My Heart", "Fair Is The Rose" and "Whence Came A Prince"...it doesn't compare. The story line is under developed and the characters unbelievable. I enjoyed reading it, but my recommendation would be to spend the money and time on the Liz Curtis Higgs' trilogy.

Wings of Morning (These Highland Hills, Book 2)

Average customer rating:

Fans will enjoy this
An engaging romance
Filled with mystery and romance!
terrific sixteenth century Scottish romance

Wings of Morning (These Highland Hills, Book 2)
Kathleen Morgan
Manufacturer: Revell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0800759648
Release Date: 2006-02-01

Book Description

Orphan heiress and Scotswoman, Regan MacLaren, is a bride of but one day when her husband is murdered. As a result, Regan loses her memory and with it her place in the world. Laird and warrior, Iain Campbell, is waiting for the love he knows God will bring him. But a woman near death and without a memory isn't quite what he expected. With their clans feuding, Regan and Iain should never have met. But, when their paths cross, they come to know and love each other--only to encounter more obstacles in their way. Iain's a suspect in the murder of Regan's husband, and he soon becomes a stumbling block to unholy ambitions that may well lead to more deaths, including his own. Will betrayal and suspicion force them apart forever? Or can their love help heal their clans and their land?

Customer Reviews:

Fans will enjoy this.......2006-04-25

Kathleen Morgan begins her riveting highland historical novel, Wings of Morning, on Regan MacLaren's wedding night. When the clansmen bring their drunken laird, who is Regan's foster brother, to their bedchamber, Roddy is both brutal and awkward in his attempts to consummate the marriage. Regan flees, and when he cannot find her, he decides to make peace by bringing her an expensive gift--stolen from the flocks and herds of the neighboring Campbell clan. Instead, they bring Roddy back laid out on his plaid, killed by Ian Campbell after a surrender, according to Roddy's brother, Walter, who has become the new laird of the clan.

When Regan tries to prevent Walter's ambush of Ian Campbell, she loses her way, falls, and loses her memory. She does not remember who she is, that she is the abandoned heiress of the wealthy Drummond clan, the widow of murdered Roddy MacLaren, or that she hates Ian Campbell. Campbell's peasants bring her to Ian's estate where he and his mother nurse her back to health. As the godly Ian and she spend time together, love grows, and Regan finds in Ian's mother the mother-figure missing in her own life.

The return of Regan's memory, the distrust of Ian's cousin Niall, the hunger for power of her cousin William Drummond, the commands of Queen Mary, and the schemes of Walter MacLaren threaten Ian's and Regan's budding love.

Kathleen Morgan weaves a fascinating tale of highland romance. Though I have read little historical fiction in the past few years, I scoped out free moments to pick up her book. Her characters are well drawn: Ian, strong, handsome and godly, with a clear idea of what he wants; Regan, a distrustful and vulnerable survivor; William Drummond, the power-hungry man intent on not losing his position to Regan; and the grasping, unscrupulous Walter. My only suggestion would be that Morgan make some of the Scottish words a little more understandable, such as "tanist."

Morgan, the winner of the 2002 Rose Award for Best Inspirational Romance and author of several romances, delivers again. Fans of historical fiction or of Scotland will enjoy this book. - Debbie W. Wilson, Christian Book Previews.com

An engaging romance.......2006-03-03

In WINGS OF MORNING, the second installment of These Highland Hills, Kathleen Morgan offers up her own trademark brand of historical romantic fare that, while engaging, requires turning a blind eye to some cliched plot elements.

Morgan picks up from the first book in the series, CHILD OF THE MIST, which introduced us to the feuding, superstitious world of the Scottish Highlands in the 1500s. In it, we met Niall Campbell and Anne MacGregor and followed their tempestuous marriage. In this sequel, Niall's brother Iain takes center stage. We're also introduced to the 17-year-old orphaned Regan Drummond, who has been raised by the MacLaren clan and is now to be wed to her best friend, Roddy MacLaren.

However, on her wedding night Regan discovers Roddy's darker side. Inexplicably, she's angry with him for getting drunk, but a few paragraphs before, she's urging him to down some wine before he comes to their marriage bed. After fleeing from her new husband (and conveniently staying a virgin), she is stunned the next morning when she discovers Roddy has been murdered. Her new brother-in-law, Walter, vows vengeance on Iain Campbell, who Walter says killed Roddy. But we're already pretty sure who has killed whom.

Regan rides out on horseback and ends up in an accident, which lands her at the Campbells' castle suffering from amnesia. She's nursed back to health (can you say PRIDE & PREJUDICE?) and falls in love with the kind, handsome laird Iain, whose gotten over his love for Anne from book one and is ready to turn his attentions elsewhere. Kathleen Morgan knows how to weave sexual tension throughout her novels, and the romance heats up nicely between Regan and Iain.

Disappointingly, amnesia has been so overused as a plot device that the reader can't help but feel this is an easy way to make the story move along. Regan predictably regains her memory just before the Queen visits, and she's able to bring her murder accusations against Iain directly to the authorities. The reader is left scratching her head at this point, wondering why a woman who loved Iain so desperately would desire to avenge her husband of one night by seeing her love interest executed for murder. It's also a bit unbelievable that Iain's family continues with varying levels of affection to care for Regan, who is now trying to unjustly (but justly in her mind) accuse the kind and generous Iain. To say the reader needs to suspend disbelief is to state it lightly.

Some of the Scottish terminology (as in CHILD OF THE MIST) is confusing (a glossary would be helpful) and, when it is frequently used, detracts from the smooth pacing of the book ("Weesht" is enjoyable the first time, but gets old quickly.) There's the unavoidable comparison of a woman to a horse, which unfortunately appeared in CHILD OF THE MIST (this time, it's "Bridle the filly before she takes the bit, and she's forever out of control.") It's a tired analogy that is used far too often in romance novels.

Despite these missteps, Morgan excels at including some nice historical details, including a section on roses --- which might slow down an uninterested reader --- but as a gardener, I found it absorbing. Her settings are usually well-described, "the heath washing the hills in lavender and pink, the sparkling burns flowing through the glens, and the eagles soaring overhead."

If historical fiction readers can suspend their disbelief about some of the plot elements, they should find this an engaging romance.

--- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby. Contact Cindy at phrelanzer@aol.com.

Filled with mystery and romance!.......2006-02-19

Wings of Morning, the second book in Kathleen Morgan's These Highland Hills series is filled with mystery and romance. Even though the book is part of a series, it stands alone and can be enjoyed without having read the first one. Regan, the main character, is a joy to read about, and the escapades she gets herself into will have you laughing and shaking your head.

Regan MacLauren is introduced to the reader as she prepares for her wedding night. In tradition of a highland bedding ritual, the groom celebrates with wine and the wedding guests, while the bride prepares herself for the marriage bed. Regan denies her husband his marriage rights after he enters the bedchamber drunk. After her husband passes out and wakes up to discover there was no union in the marriage bed, Regan further infuriates him by sneaking out of the castle to sleep outside.

To make up for the disastrous night, her husband goes to the neighboring tanist to steal cattle as a wedding gift for his bride, but he's returned to her dead. Her brother-in-law leaves to seek revenge on the tanist, and she also follows him to avenge for her husband's death. When an electrical storm breaks out and spooks her horse, she falls and hits her head on a rock and loses her memory.

Enter in Iain Campbell, neighboring tanist and rescuer of Regan. Regan spends weeks with Iain and his mother as she recovers from her injuries and tries to regain her memory. Through the fellowship of Iain and his mother, Regan learns the true meaning of happiness and love. This happiness and love is jeopardized when she regains her memory and realizes that the person she is falling in love with may have killed her husband.

Kathleen Morgan takes Regan and Iain through many hardships and pain, but by the end of the book the reader is delighted in the story. Just when you think all is said and done, she throws another pot on the fire.

Armchair Interviews says: The reader will be excited to read to the very last page of Wings of Morning.

terrific sixteenth century Scottish romance.......2006-02-01

In 1556 heiress Regan MacLaren marries her childhood friend Drummond, but halts their lovemaking when her drunken groom acts brutish in front of his equally intoxicated friends and brother Walter. The next day Regan learns that Drummond was murdered by the laird of Clan Campbell Iain when he went on a raid to obtain a bride gift for her, was caught, surrendered, and was cowardly killed. Walter demands justice, but insists their poor clan cannot obtain such from the likes of the mighty Campbells. Instead he waits to abduct Iain at an opportune moment when they can bring him stealthily to justice at their keep.

Regan worries when Walter leads a party to snatch Iain so she follows. She stumbles and is found by Iain's men who bring the injured woman to their chieftain. Regan suffers from amnesia, but quickly Iain and her fall in love. However, once she learns who she is, she will need to decide between her clan in marriage or the Campbells not realizing that Walter plans to take away her choices.

WINGS OF MORNING is a terrific sixteenth century Scottish romance starring a delightful cast that brings to life the feuds and pacts of These Highlands Hills. The story line contains a bit of a mystery as to whether Iain really murdered Drummond and if not who did, but clearly the relationship between the laird and the amnesiac make for a fun tale as he wonders what will happen to them once she regains her memory. The return of the lead couple from CHILD OF THE MIST augments a fine historical tale that will have readers pondering how the diabolical Walter will bring justice to Iain and take Regan as his.

Harriet Klausner

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These Thousand Hills
These Thousand Hills-a classic cowboy tale

These Thousand Hills
A. B. Guthrie
Manufacturer: Mariner Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0395755204

Book Description

When These Thousand Hills was published in 1956, The Saturday Review proclaimed it to be "so compelling that it is hard indeed to set aside until it has been devoured." Conjuring up the ephemeral world of cattle ranchers in the 1880s, this intimate saga delights in a Montana community's boisterous, wanderlusting eccentrics as they chase after love and their unbridled ambitions. At its center is Lat Evans, good-hearted and yet seduced by the possibilities for prosperity in his new life; gradually he discerns how the perils of the natural world, and most especially human nature, can conspire to frustrate a young man's best intentions. A lively, quixotic revisit to our historic youth, this literary classic deftly captures western drama at its finest, with all its accompanying toils of the heart.

Customer Reviews:

These Thousand Hills.......2007-08-29

A.B. Guthrie is perhaps one of the best writers I have encountered in many years. In reading this book I felt that I was actually there as events unfolded. One of the all time best!

These Thousand Hills-a classic cowboy tale.......2006-02-03

In my opinion, Guthrie's "These Thousand Hills" is a typical western novel. It tells the story of a young man named Lat and his journey into adulthood. His adventure as a cowboy is complete with prostitutes, encounters with Indians and "bad guy" cowboys, murder, and love. Lat dreams of starting his own ranch, but he comes from a very humble background, and has to make his money fur trapping and racing his horse. His prostitute lover, Callie, gives him her life savings to bet on his horse in hopes of getting him to marry her. Lat can't marry her because she would not be good for his reputation, so he marries a well-to-do woman named Joyce instead, although he knows he loves Callie. Lat sacrifices many of his relationships in order to keep his reputation and work toward his dream.
Guthrie uses imagery in describing the scenery, but more so in describing the women in the story. He describes both Joyce and Callie in meticulous detail, along with all of the other women featured in the story. I pictured all of the women in the story easily, but Guthrie did not ever give a detailed description of any of the men in the book. He also uses diction to set the rugged, cowboy setting, often using a western accent and sometimes using words that seem uneducated. Overall, the book was simple and not difficult to understand. Guthrie basically tells the reader exactly what is going on, so there is not very much to analyze or look deeper into. I enjoyed the book and it had all the makings of a perfect cowboy tale.

Beneath These Stones: A Mitchell and Markby Mystery (Meredith and Markby Mysteries)

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Satisfying but not outstanding
Reads like an early Deborah Crombie....
Good addition to this long-running mystery series

Beneath These Stones: A Mitchell and Markby Mystery (Meredith and Markby Mysteries)
Ann Granger
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Minotaur
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 031224178X

Book Description

Life has not been easy for 12-year-old Tammy Franklin. Her mother has passed away, and now her father's new wife has been found stabbed to death. Superintendent Markby is the first on the scene, and he must protect Tammy, as her father is the primary suspect. No one is talking, and Markby and Mitchell are faced with a truth far more complex than they imagined.

Customer Reviews:

Satisfying but not outstanding.......2001-09-09

There's nothing really remarkable about this book to make it resonate in a reader's memory. On the other hand, if you like English village mysteries - with the implied promise that the villain can be found among the residents described and won't turn out to be a passing serial killer - you'll appreciate this story. Granger gives us plenty of players with motives and doesn't make it easy to spot the crucial one. Unfortunately, her leading characters have come to an "awkward" point in their relationship and aren't a lot of fun to be with. Let's hope they work things out before becoming less pleasant company than the bad guys they're chasing.

Reads like an early Deborah Crombie...........2000-05-03

If you want an easy to read and mildly entertaining book for a long flight somewhere-this is the book for you. The characters are sterotypical--including a career policeman with a failed marriage, his professional but meddlesome girl-friend, a troubled child, her caring teacher, an embittered husband (of the corpse-natch), and gypsies not much different from Auntie Mabel and Uncle Herbert who bought a camper for traveling around the U.K. Heck, this book isn't even scary. Granger will make a mistake if she marries the two main characters at some point--then there'll be no tension. Well, I read it anyway, but hey, I'm home sick today with a head cold.

Good addition to this long-running mystery series.......2000-02-18

Inspector Alan Markby asks his long time girlfriend Meredith Mitchell to marry him, but she rejects his request. They continue to see one another, but their relationship has turned awkward as neither one is fully comfortable with the other at this time.

That changes when Alan begins an investigation that Meredith finds interesting. The Smith family members are tinkers who always stay on the Hazlewood Farm when they are in the area. This time when they park their camper, the murdered corpse of the farmer's wife greets the Smith patriarch. The tinker and the deceased's spouse Hugh report her stabbing death to the police. The victim's adolescent daughter Tammy is distraught over the woman's death and worries what will happen to her and he father, especially since evidence points towards Hugh. Tammy's teacher asks her friend Meredith to uncover the truth behind the slaying. Meredith and Alan travel down numerous paths in search of that elusive truth.

The twelfth Mitchell and Markby mystery remarkably retains its freshness due to the twists to their relationship. Readers obtain a glimpse of life in a small British village through the eyes of the lead characters. Alan and Meredith narrate the story line. That method works as it provides insight into what each one is thinking about their relationship as well as the case. The police investigation is entertaining especially the behind the scenes activities of an aid. An Ann Granger novel is always a wonderful reading experience and BENEATH THESE STONES proves the veracity of that statement.

Harriet Klausner

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These Thousand Hills
A B Guthrie
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000NPZQLU

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