Average customer rating:
- WARM TO TEPID
- Great book--until the ending
- Raintree:Inferno
- the beginning of a new magical trilogy, the Raintree
- Stupid...Not Worthy of a Howard Book
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Raintree: Inferno (Silhouette Nocturne)
Linda Howard
Manufacturer: Silhouette
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Binding: Mass Market Paperback
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ASIN: 0373617623 |
Book Description
Two hundred years after the Raintree clan defeated and abandoned them on a small Caribbean Island, the Ansara wizards are rising again to take on their bitterest foes. Despite their extraordinary powers and supernatural origin, the Raintree have largely blended into the modern world. They are bankers, cops, husbands, wives and lovers in the society of humankind. But now, from Nevada to North Carolina, the rejoined battle will measure the endurance of their people. It will test their loyalties and relationships. And it will force upon them all new lives they could barely have imagined before.
Customer Reviews:
WARM TO TEPID.......2007-10-03
Was so desperate to read a Linda Howard that I bought this Silhouette romance. Hoped that this would be better than her last few dismal hard covers.
Strangely, I enjoyed it a lot. It really had no depth but it didnt pretend to be as her hardcovers do. Liked both hero and heroine. I have all Linda's old books in paperbacks and treasure them. This was a quick read and entertaining. Smiled at the ending. Should have known!!! I will purchase the others when I finish my list.
Great book--until the ending.......2007-09-23
I am a huge fan of Linda Howard. Her worst book is still better than most books by other authors.
I loved this book until the ending. I thought it set up the trilogy brilliantly and I am not much of a paranormal reader. I thought the book was fast-paced and sexy and I loved the dynamic between the hero and the heroine. I notice that many reviewers think the story is poorly developed, but for the word count I disagree. You cannot compare a book this short with Howard's longer novels. She simply did not have the space to develop issues other than the relationship between the hero and the heroine and the paranormal world.
I was, however, disappointed by a profound feeling of being left hanging by the book's ending.
I bought the next two books, and hopefully I will feel fulfilled when I read them.
I salute Linda Howard for writing another wonderful book--until the last few pages. BRAVO!!!
Raintree:Inferno.......2007-09-18
Linda Howard is one of my favorite authors and this book was no exception. Very well written and I enjoyed it very much.
the beginning of a new magical trilogy, the Raintree.......2007-08-21
Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques
Dante Raintree is the dranir (leader) of an ancient magical clan, gifted with the ability to manipulate fire, and is the owner of a casino in Reno. He is none too keen to find a woman in his casino, Lorna Clay, who seems to be just a mite too lucky at the card tables. Convinced she may have a few magical abilities of her own but knowing she is not of his clan, Dante suspects she may belong to the Ansara, an enemy wizard clan the Raintrees defeated a couple hundred years ago.
Lorna Clay has always been gifted though she's not exactly sure how or why. That doesn't stop her from using her gift to make a living at the casinos, frequently winning, but never enough at one time to set off any red flags. However, her luck may be about to run out... Being sought out by one of the casino owners and questioned about her ability to win so much, she begins to suspect something is up. It doesn't help that Dante seems to have a few gifts of his own, especially in the ways of seduction.
When a huge fire breaks out at the casino, turning it into a real live Inferno that Dante is unable to control, he realizes that maybe their ancient enemy is growing strong once more and Lorna may be the one person who can help him find enough power to defeat the enemy.
I was relatively unimpressed with Inferno. The story is very fast paced, all occurring within only a few days, just before the Summer Solstice, when magical power is at its strongest. However, it doesn't feel complete. Yes it is a part of a trilogy and it's expected in a series done in this format that the full story continues over all of the books, not to be completed in one book. Yet on the flip side, I still expect my romance novels to have a beginning, middle, and an end to the individual stories in each book. With, Inferno, there is no sense of completion at all, as it just stops, not ending at all. This is something I expect from a fantasy novel or an historical epic, not a romance - series or stand alone.
I did get a strong enough impression of the battle between opposing clans of Raintree and Ansara however and look forward to seeing where the long-standing animosity between rivals will lead. It is quite apparent that the Ansara are not thrilled about being defeated and have been waiting a long time to seek vengeance. That aspect of the story I loved and I look forward to the books to follow, Haunted and Sanctuary to see how everything is resolved.
I had a very hard time accepting Dante and Lorna as a couple. He is a very dominant alpha male and Lorna is a strong-willed spitfire who won't let anyone push her around. Normally, this combination works well since I can't stand when alpha males are paired with a simpering female. The heroine needs to be as strong willed as he or she is turned into a doormat. However what pushed me over the top and made me hate Dante is how he shows his dominance. On more than one occasion he mind-rapes her, and Lorna tells him how much she despises his tendency to "brain-rape" her, as she refers to it. This just disgusted me that someone who is supposed to be heroic would do such a thing against the will of the person he's doing it to. Later, he does come to understand this technique for controlling Lorna is wrong, and he shows some remorse, but I think Lorna deserved more groveling from him to make up for what he did. I surely never could have forgiven him so easily were I in her shoes.
In short, as an individual romance story, Inferno can't hold a candle to most books I've read in the genre, not giving me enough satisfaction that there will eventually be a happy ending. As the beginning to a series though, Inferno is strong and shows promise for the remaining books in the Raintree trilogy. For that lone reason, this book did not immediately become a wall-banger for me.
© Kelley A. Hartsell, July 2007. All rights reserved.
Stupid...Not Worthy of a Howard Book.......2007-08-12
This was a ridiculous story. One character makes and controls fire. Woo. The female character has psychic powers. There are clans that are feuding for thousands of years...zzzzzzzzz. This is a poor mans Lord of the Rings type story. It was so incredibly stupid I gave up 2/3 through it.
Book Description
Montana horse breeder McKinnon Quinn savored his "no women on my ranch" rule. So when Casey Westmoreland asked for a job training horses, he turned her down flat. For despite her innocent looks, she tempted him beyond reason.
Casey had vowed to get McKinnon to hire her and make him her first--her only--lover. Yet after every steamy encounter, the infuriating man dodged her.
It was as if he had a secret he was desperate to keep… making Casey just as desperate to uncover it.
Customer Reviews:
Her one and only.......2007-07-29
Casey Westmoreland and McKinnon Quinn are finally united in SEDUCTION: WESTMORELAND STYLE, Brenda Jackson's tenth installment of the Westmoreland clan saga.
Casey is so dead-set on McKinnon being her first and only lover that she literally begs him to hire her as a horse trainer on his ranch. Of course he refuses. When one of the horses goes haywire, and before it injures one of his helpers, Casey steps in and brings the horse under control. After careful consideration McKinnon decides to give it a go and offers her the job. Little does he know he stepped out of the frying pan into the fire. You see, in order to fulfill the duties of the position, Casey would have to live in the guesthouse at his ranch. With Casey being in such close proximity, McKinnon finds himself daydreaming and having a hard time keeping his mind on running his ranch. Poor, poor McKinnon, Casey laid that ole Westmoreland Seduction on him so thick, he never knew what hit him.
In true Jackson fashion, this novel will leave you breathless. The back and forth antics between Casey and McKinnon will have you screaming at the top of your lungs, wishing they'd just get it over with. The book is well written and the storyline magnificent. Jackson is and has always been one of my favorite authors.
Reviewed by Pamela Bolden
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
Seduction, Westmoreland Style.......2007-07-24
McKinnon Quinn does not want a woman in his life. Casey Westmoreland is a temptation too hard for McKinnon to resist though, so when she shows up at his ranch looking for a job as a horse trainer, McKinnon turns her down flat. When he realizes that she's he's only hope, he offers Casey a challenge she can't refuse. Casey accepts, but living on the ranch next to sexy McKinnon is going to be hard.
Eventually agreeing to a no strings attached affair may or may not be the way to go, but McKinnon needs to keep it that way because he's hiding a secret that he's sure Casey won't be able to accept.
Seduction, Westmoreland Style is a story where the sexual tension is high and the passion is tender. McKinnon is very sexy and Casey is strong and sweet. This is a nice story about acceptance and the power of love.
Nannette reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed
Westmoreland Style.......2007-07-16
I have read several of the Westmoreland family members and each one that I read was excellent this would go in the same category. I enjoyed the details and how descriptive Ms. Jackson is to the point you fill like you are right there in the book with her. This is a must read.
Barbara
:0) .......2007-07-15
you can not go wrong with a westmoreland family member.I loved it great read enjoyable. everytime you read a westmoreland family member Brenda Jackson makes you feel apart of the family..
It another great one!!!!!.......2007-07-13
This book was great. I love how she keeps the family seguences going and there all really great story. I have every one of her books and I love them all!
Customer Reviews:
The fantasy of instant wealth.......2007-10-15
One of man's most persistant fantasies is of hitting the jackbot, winning the lottery, inheriting a fortune. And that is the basis of this novel from the MacGregor series. Pretty young Darcy's car breaks down just outside Las Vegas and she walks onto The Strip. With her last nine dollars and change, she plays a slot machine in the Comanche casino and hotel. Minutes later she has almost two million dollars and the attention of Mac Blade, devilishly handsome manager of the establishment.
Having read other Nora Roberts books, it was reasonably easy to extrapolate the plot that ensues. There is the obligatory R rated sex scene, after a stormy few days with Mac Blade, his parents and, unfortunately, The MacGregor, who shows up with his usual suggestions.
Personally I have little interest in Las Vegas, with the the sort of people who go there to gamble and see the glitzy, shallow shows. It all seems such a waste of time. Ms. Roberts does manage to make it all seem very real if superficial.
This novel is a bit better than most from this series, but not nearly as good as some of the books from later series.
Another Great Book.......2007-02-21
Another great book about the MacGregor family. This time Serena's son Mac Blake who runs their Las Vegas hotel/casino where Darcy stumbles into her car had broken down outside of Las Vegas, umemployeed and puts the last of her money into a slot machine and wins the jackpot. Both are very good charactors I liked how protect Mac was of Darcy. He was very sweet to her.
Déjà vu for Mac MacGregor Blade.......2005-04-06
THE WINNING HAND is one of the books revolving around the MacGregor clan and spotlights Robert MacGregor Blade (they call him Mac), the son of Justin Blade and Serena MacGregor Blade. If you read my review on PLAYING THE ODDS or if you've actually read that book, you'll know the story behind Mac's parents meeting. If not, here's a brief synopsis: Daniel MacGregor (Serena's father) once again puts his matchmaking skills to work and "introduced" these two. Justin is a gambler and owner of a casino. Serena has taken a brief "tour" as a blackjack dealer on a cruise ship. They meet and the rest is MacGregor history. (I said brief!!)
Like I stated, Mac is Serena and Justin son and has the job of running one of several casinos owned by Justin and Serena. Mac has a very hands-on type approach to running the casino and knows exactly what's going on at any given time monitoring everything from either the bank of windows from his office or the many security camera monitors lined up nearby.
Darcy was having the worst day in her life, actually the worst several days. Her car broke down several miles outside of Las Vegas and she walked into town in the blazing sun. She was dazed, hot, dehydrated, and looked like she could use a shower and clean clothes when she stumbled into Mac's casino. She then took her last dollar and played it on one of those million-dollar-winner-type slot machines (you know the big ones in the entries to many of the casinos). Sure enough, she hits the million-dollar jackpot and then politely faints right into Mac's arms. Ok, sure it sounds like something that can never happen to the "normal" person, but hey, we can dream can't we?
Mac feels like he needs to take care of Darcy since she won the money in his casino until she gets on her feet and has her stay at his rooms above the casino. (Did I mention that he takes his job very seriously?) I'm sure most of you can see where this is heading, but don't stop reading here...
Of course they fall in love and the rest of the book is devoted to how Darcy and Mac resolve various issues and how they become business partners - just like Serena and Justin had years earlier. Just when things look like it will be smooth sailing, Darcy is kidnapped and Mac is beside himself. This kidnapping coincides with Justin and Serena's visit which has both of them reliving Serena's kidnapping. In fact, PLAYING THE ODDS and THE WINNING HAND almost seem to parallel each other!
You're probably wondering if I'm going to recommend this book or not. You're also probably thinking that this is a weak story line and not a book that you'd be interested in reading. Well, if you want to laugh out loud, smile continuously while reading, and just have a good time, then this is a book you need to purchase, borrow or find with any other means available! This has become one of my favorite of Nora Roberts' romance type books - it's fun, refreshing even with a story line that has been done over and over again, and of course Daniel MacGregor puts in an appearance to spice things up.
Now on the negative side, it is a quick read with only around 200 pages, not filled with much new material and at times seems redundant. It's also a little unbelievable at times - I mean who has actually gambled their last dollar and won a million dollars and then had the gorgeous owner of the casino decide to take care of you? Ah, maybe this is the modern version of Cinderella.
I Love the McGregor Series!!!.......2004-01-26
Another great Nora Roberts story. Poor Darcy walks away from her overbearing fiance and not only wins at the slot machine, but wins an even large hand ---- "Mac" McGregor. Great story.
Charming.......2003-08-03
This is a fun story about a young woman who couldn't get a break at home and finds that her bad luck is holding out on her trek to Las Vegas. Broke and alone, Darcy Wallace takes a chance on a big money slot machine and wins over a million dollars.
I enjoyed reading about Darcy's enjoyment of all the things she'd missed up to that point and the way she unexpectedly finds herself and the life she's always wanted. I also enjoyed reading about the participation of the MacGregors in Darcy's new life. Darcy and the MacGregors are charming characters.
My only problem with the story was the lack of character development for Mac. I had a hard time understanding what motivated him to do the things he did. The story would have been much better if his character was explained better. For that reason, I've only given this book 3 stars but I liked Darcy and the MacGregors enough to enjoy reading the book and will read it again.
Customer Reviews:
Just Plain Fun.......2007-10-13
Previous to this book, I had just finished Nora Roberts' "Public Secrets" and it was an amazing book but leaves you a bit depressed so I needed a delightful, light hearted book to conteract all the horrors of "Public Secrets". Well, I chose right on! "Considering Kate" is delightful, fun, romantic, and so full of family. I loved all the characters in this one especially the 6 year old son of Brody, "Handsome Jack". The relationship between this father and son was just so touching. The book made me laugh and cry. I will admit a tear when Jack asks Kate to marry "us". Nora does a delightful job of bringing the heart warming relationships of this family together. If you want a feel good book, this is it!
Another Great Book.......2007-02-21
Ballerina Kate Kimball returns home to hopen a dance studio. She hires Brody O'Connell whom she meets in her mother's store, a widower with a young son named Jack. Since the death of his wife Jack has been his only priority but he finds himself attracted to Kate. Kate, herself is attracted to Brody. A very good story. The charactors a wonderfully well written with flaws but lovable.
warm and fuzzy - love these characters!.......2006-07-16
Nora Robert's writing is excellent.It drew me in and I couldn't put it down. Wonderful story and both characters are so well put together I feel I know them intimately.Loved it!!
From Back Cover.......2006-05-08
A NEW DREAM
She's turned her back on glamour and fame and Kate Stanislaski Kimball had come home to begin a new life. The only thing more perfect than the beautiful - dilapidated - building she'd bought for her new dance school was Brody O'Connell, the frustrating, surprisingly fascinating contractor she'd hired for the renovation.
A man didn't often come across a woman as gorgeous, sensuous, provocative... and utterly irritating as Kate. But Brody was determined to resist her effortless allure. She was Natasha Stanislaki's pampered, perfect daughter, and not at all the right woman for him. But every fiber of his being longed to make her his...
[6th in The Stanislaskis series]
can't wait!!!!!!.......2005-09-01
well, i have read WAITING FOR NICK......and i identified with nick's longing fora home.........which he certainly found in the Stanilaskis circle!!!!!! i'd like to read more about this family....the way Nora describes thm, you'll forget they're just fictional characters!!!!! it's like being welcomed warmly into a new family!!!!!!!
Customer Reviews:
The Perfect Neighbor.......2007-10-18
We (my mother and I) have thoroughaly enjoyed all of the MacGregory series....and have kept them - loaned them out but they are on our bookshelves for rereading at another time.
Better than average.......2007-10-08
The heroine is young, beautiful, talented, successful and independent, just like most lead women in a Nora Roberts novel. The hero is young, handsome, talented, successful and independent--closely paralleling the heroine in most respects. Only in personality do they differ significantly. They live in a Manhattan Soho apartment house that is owned by "The MacGregor," patriarch of this series of novels.
The first third of the book is quite good. After that it tends to drift off into sex scenes and pointless arguments. But that first third has considerable charm, humor, intrigue. The heroine mistakes the hero for an unemployed jazz musician, whereas he is actually a very successful playwright, and she actually pays him $100 to go to dinner with her and $50 to kiss her. Read the book for the reasons.
"The MacGregor," once again, has arranged their being in apartments just across the hall from each other. His meddling gets a bit tiresome after a few books in the series, and apparently no one has the ability to tell him to buzz off and mean it.
The atmosphere is quite good, mostly South of Houston. The dialogue is fine. And, as mentioned, the first part of the novel is excellent, but then it becomes just another R-rated romance with glitzy people who tend to take their success in life for granted. It would be interesting to have some characters who struggle just a wee bit to make the rent and buy groceries. It would certainly be more human, more realistic.
A GREAT BOOK.......2007-02-21
Another great book about the MacGregor family. Daniel just keeps pairing up each of his grandchildren. This time Cybril Campbell who's writes a comic strip and is curious about her new neighber McQuinn not knowing that he's there at Daniel's suggestion. I really liked the story.
A light and sunny romance........2005-05-23
Cybil Campbell lives in apartment 3A, where she works magic by drawing the famous comic-strip "Friends and Neighbors". Nothing quiet about Cybil's life. She is bubbly, upbeat, loves to bake (and give it away so she will not eat it all), and thrives on background noise. Good thing too, since all her neighbors in the building are LOUD. Except, that is for the new resident in 3B, across the hall.
Everyone wonders who the new guy is. He is silent and seldom seen. Cybil finally gets the man to speak, thanks to her excellent and addictive cookies. She learns his last name is McQuinn, but that is about it. When a nosy, but good hearted, neighbor tries to set her up with one of her relatives (Frank) Cybil pays McQuinn to take her out. Cybil even buys him dinner. All just so the neighbor will see them and not be hurt. Cybil has come to the conclusion that McQuinn is a poor, out-of-work musician. He lets her think it too. But when Cybil finds out who he really is, her mind changes and she decides he is a narrow-minded, arrogant creep. Too bad she cannot seem to forget his kiss.
McQuinn's life is dark and barren, the way he likes it. He is rude to everyone so they will stay away and leave him alone. The last thing he wants is to be around his happy and sunny neighbor, Cybil. But while kissing her good night, strictly for their nosy neighbor of course, the block of ice around his heart begins to melt.
**** A light and sunny romance guaranteed to help sooth your nerves after a stressful day. No serious danger here. Just romance brewing between opposites. Very well done! ****
Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.
Daniel MacGregor - The Reincarnation of Venus?.......2005-04-07
The MacGregors were one of Nora Roberts' creations that surpassed excellence. These family members are fun, witty, strong natured, hardheaded, and a joy. I can't think of another fictional family that I've enjoyed more than the MacGregors and their extended family. These characters have made every book written about them fun to read!
In THE PERFECT NEIGHBOR, Cybil Campbell is extended family, after all the Campbells and MacGregors have a long history together. Her being extended family does not mean she's immune to Daniel MacGregor's matchmaking prowess. Daniel, the patriarch of the MacGregor clan is the best at what he does, be it business or making sure his family is all married, happy, and continuing the family line of MacGregors. He's an expert at harmonizing his family members with the perfect match, even if they don't think so in the beginning. Their blissful happiness usually changes their frustration at his interference.
Daniel places Preston McQuinn, a quiet loner, right in the path of Cybil, whose bubbly and outgoing personality could either overshadow or compliment McQuinn. That's the difference between Daniel and other do-gooders - Daniel just places the people in each other's paths and lets magic happen. And since Daniel owns an apartment complex, he can't be held responsible if two tenants would be perfect for each other and he just happens to place them in close proximity.
The magic begins when Cybil mistakes Preston as being unemployed and tries to hire him as her escort. For some reason, Preston agrees and Nora Roberts then takes the reader on a journey of fun and laughter, ok there is romance too!
Daniel MacGregor has a perfect matchmaking record and no one, Cybil and Preston included, can deny that he's the best in the world at pairing people. I'm wondering if this is a talent that's gotten better with time, or if Daniel MacGregor is the male reincarnation of Venus, the Goddess of Love?
Book Description
New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts brings you two classic romantic treasures not widely available for over a decade.
The Heart's Victory
He was the man she once dreamed about, but never dared to love. But now that Cynthia Fox was back in town, she was forced to confront Lance Matthews and all the old feelings speeding between them. Like the world of auto racing, Fox knew the stakes were high -- but so was the prize. Because this time, the only true victory would be love.
Opposites Attract
They were like night and day -- Ty Starbuck, a man known for his passions, and Asher Wolfe, infamous for her icy control. Together they'd set the world ablaze. Even after years apart, she still wanted him, deeply. But she had a secret she could never share -- even with the man she still loved. If only she could reveal the truth . . .
Customer Reviews:
I resent buying books that:.......2007-07-31
I resent buying books that I have read before but have been repackaged and marketed as new!!! I love Nora Robert's books but lately I have been very careful about reading the publishing date before buying.I wish someone would tell her or her publisher this before I refuse to buy any of her books!!!
LOVE IT! I have read it more than 3 times... honest!.......2006-04-20
I really loved this book. It's amazing and so romantic. We start with the first story which is Opposite Attract with Ty and Asher. They had been lovers 3 years ago but Asher had left Ty to married someone else. Ty who thought had been played by Asher come face to face with her at the tennis championships. And a knew romance started with heated nights in each others arms. But Ty still didn't know why Asher had left him 3 years early and was trying to figure it out. But Asher had a big secret that she didn't want Ty to know about, but a their new romance gets more intense. And secrets are too close to get revealed and change everything between them.
The second story The Heart's Victory which i absolutly adored is with the sexy & determind Lance and the grown and beautful Foxy. Foxy had been in love with Lance since she was 16 years old. But Lance would only make her feel like if she was an annoying child and push her away. Heartbroken Foxy decided to forget him. But even though six years had passed since she had laid eyes on Lance when she saw him again she knew she never stop loving him. But Foxy felt at a loss because she thought that Lance just wanted to take her to bed but her thoughts change dramatically on the night that Lance asked Foxy to marry him. Once married they discovers passion never felt before.
Loved it!!!.......2005-11-11
I liked both stories, but I liked The Heart's Victory the best. It was great to see the couple get together after being apart for 6 years. I loved getting a look into their lives after they were married, which is something we don't get to do often in Nora Robert's books. Also, the storyline took place in different cities/countries, and it was great getting a look into the car racing world. The main characters, Foxy and Lance were well developed, we get to see (through flashbacks) Foxy go from a 14 year old girl with a crush into a grown woman who has realized that it's true love.
Loved it!
Loved...... it!.......2005-08-27
both books were similar in the sense that they both had a theme of past love's that were now being faced in the present. However, each situation is quite different, and so are the locations and charcters.
I love this book, your filled with emotion, hope and all sorts of feeling, and as a romantic I'm glad they turned out nicely. If you've ever had a childhood crush, or fantasy, its even much better.
A beautiful journey.......2005-08-09
Even though Mrs. Roberts' novels are a bit "formulaic" I still
love them. Her settings take one on a beautiful journey and
even though you know the boy will get the girl, it's a joy
to find out how he does it.
Customer Reviews:
Heart warming.......2007-03-12
This is a wonderful book. Another great series from Nora Roberts. One word of advise....you have to read Taming Natasha then switch to Luring a Lady and Convincing Alex then read Falling for Rachel to get the stories in order. Afterward, there are 2 more books related to these...Waiting for Nick (Rachel's brother-in-law) and Considering Kate (Natasha's daughter. Reflections and Dreams (Dance of Dreams in particular) is yet another related book with Nickolai Davidov from Considering Kate. Dance to the Piper as well as the O'Hurley's books connect through as well. This is quite a confusing but fun set of books.
Wonderful tale of two sisters.......2006-05-18
Nora Roberts' tale of two sisters will keep you turning the pages. Natasha and Rachel are different and unique in their thoughts, passion, and men. Readers will enjoy reading their stories.
THE MATCH IS PERFECT FOR BOTH SISTERS.......2004-07-14
TAMING NATASHA-SPENCE IS A GOOD MAN WITH A BIG HEART AND WANTS TO SHARE IT WITH NATASHA. SHE'S BEEN HURT BEFORE AND DOES NOT WANT TO RISK IT. SHE DECIDES THAT SHE NEEDS TO FACE HER FEARS HEAD ON.
FALLING FOR RACHEL-WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE TWO MEN WHO BOTH WANT YOU? ONE YOU SEE AS A CHILD AND THE OTHER YOU COULD TAKE TO BED. WHAT WILL SHE DO?
Extraordinary Book!.......2004-05-14
This is the first book that I have read in a while that has been a wonderful book, and kept me on the edge of my seat. Natasha and Rachel are two of my favorite characters in the Stanislaski saga.
Heartwarming Stories of an Immigrant Family.......2004-05-01
This book contains two full-length novels both written by Nora Roberts, and originally published in the early 90's as Silhouette Special Editions.
TAMING NATASHA: Natasha Stanislaski is one of four children born to immigrant parents, who escaped from the Ukraine into America, for a chance at a better life. Previously a ballerina for a New York Dance Company, Natasha now owns and runs a toy store in the small town where she resides in West Virginia. Spencer Kimball, widower and father to a little girl named Freddie, has just moved from New York to this same small town. Spencer is a music composer as well as the new professor at the local college. When Natasha and Spencer meet, they get off on the wrong foot, but when Natasha decides to take a college class in music history, she's surprised to find Spencer is the teacher. They embark on a relationship, but will Natasha be able to move beyond the pain of her past which still haunts her, and offer this man her heart?
FALLING FOR RACHEL: Rachel Stanislaski is the sister of Natasha from the previous story. She is an attorney with a strong sense of justice who works as a public defender in New York. Her latest case is representing nineteen-year-old Nick LeBeck, a frightened tough guy whose parents have both died. Now Nick is mixed up with a gang, and taking the rap for an interrupted burglary. Zack Muldoon is Nick's stepbrother, and the only family Nick has left. Two years ago, Zack returned after a stint in the Navy, and will now do whatever he needs to insure Nick doesn't get prison time. Nick is sentenced to a provisionary time period where he will live with Zack, while Rachel keeps contact with Nick, and reports on his behavior. The chemistry between Zack and Rachel is undeniable, but will problems with Nick keep them apart?
Both these stories were quite enjoyable, and I had not read them when they were originally published. The Stanislaskis are a very likeable and loving family, one you'd like to be a part of. There is another book called THE STANISLASKI BROTHERS, which contain the stories of Mikhail and Alexi. My favorite of the four stories would be Mikhail's from the BROTHERS book, but all of them are heartwarming, humorous and delightful.
Book Description
REFLECTIONS AND DREAMS features the enigmatic Nickolai Davidov, choreographer of Kate Stanislaski of CONSIDERING KATE, as well as cross-characters from both titles, together now in one volume.
REFLECTIONS -- A lifetime pursuing her dreams had left Lindsay Dunne little time for romance. But seductive Seth Bannion is about to give the inexperienced beauty a crash course in the art of love.
DANCE OF DREAMS -- Innocent Ruth Bannion is in awe of her demanding mentor Nickolai Davidov. But when their partnership erupts into passionate desire, it's up to Ruth to teach the guarded Davidov the tender dance of love.
Customer Reviews:
Love Entwined With Ballet..........2004-03-13
This is an anthology of two stories, both by Nora Roberts.
In "Reflections", Lindsay Dunne was a principal dancer in a New York ballet company until her father was killed in an accident, and her mother badly injured. Forced to put her dance career on hold, she returned home to Connecticut to care for her mother. Now she teaches ballet at her studio, and has found a very promising student in the new girl in town, Ruth Bannion. Lindsay would like to send Ruth to New York to further her training, under the instruction of her previous dance partner, Nikolai Davidov. However, Lindsay has found an obstacle in the girl's uncle and guardian, Seth Bannion. Seth is the darkly handsome architect who recently bought Cliff House, a large oceanside home which Lindsay explored as a child, and swore to someday live. Their clash of wills over Ruth's future leads them to consider a future together.
"Dance of Dreams" is the story of Ruth and Nikolai who were introduced in "Reflections". Ruth is now in New York dancing under the experienced direction of Nick, the passionate and temperamental Russian heading the troupe. Ruth shows great promise of becoming a prima ballerina, and it's not long before their partnership extends off the dance floor.
I have read several books by Nora Roberts and she has never disappointed me yet. This book is no exception. These stories were originally released separately in 1983, but have amazingly stood the test of time. Both stories are very good, but my favorite is the second, "Dance of Dreams". I just love the temperamental Nikolai, and those two really sizzle on and off the dance floor! If it were possible, I'd give 4 stars to the first story, "Reflections", and 5 stars to "Dance of Dreams". This book would make an especially good summer read.
A Light Hearted Quick Read.......2003-11-01
Reflections and Dreams is made up of two novels written by Nora Roberts in 1983. It is amazing to read these books to see how well they stand up against the test of time. Many other romance books from the same period are now unreadable due to their outdated plots and hideously overbearing male `heroes' and pathetic heroines. `Reflections' and `Dance of Dreams' in contrast both have strong female characters and likeable and sexy male heroes.
Reflections is the story of Lindsey Dunne and Seth Bannion. Lindsey and Seth were interesting characters though not overly memorable. A few parts of the novel were outdated such as their cliché first meeting. Also Seth makes a quite unreasonable demand that Lindsey doesn't do one last ballet performance, which I found hard to justify. Certainly I didn't think it was something one of Nora Robert's fabulous modern heroes would say.
Dance of Dreams is the better book due to the characters of Nikolai Davidov and Ruth Bannion, Seth's niece from the first book. Nikolai Davidov was easily the most entertaining and original of all four of the lead characters, although sometimes he could be sharp and snappish for no apparent reason. Ruth's ex-boyfriend Donald seemed to have no other purpose than to provide conflict between Ruth and Nikolai - he wasn't even likeable.
Overall Reflections and Dreams is a good book which you can read quickly. It is also light hearted and has fairly strong characters. The details about the world of ballet (about which I know nothing) were interesting.
JoAnne
EXCELLENT BOOK FROM A GREAT AUTHOR!.......2002-11-22
I have always enjoyed books from Nora Roberts and this one is no exception! Reflections and Dreams contains two stories - Reflections and Dance of Dreams and I find both great. Each story is about ballet dancers who eventually find love.
This book has wonderful characters who are fully developed by the author. Every detail is described carefully and fans of Nora Roberts would find this trait familiar in many of her books. The characters are so described such that you actually feel like you know them. Personally, I prefer Nikolai to Seth but I find that I prefer the first story, Reflections to the second one. Nonetheless, kudos to Nora Roberts!
Magical Journey Into the World of Ballet.......2002-10-14
Book Review
If you want slow and sensuous, light and romantic then engage on this journey into the world of ballet. Nora Roberts is at the top of her game in her masterpiece Reflections and Dreams. This book not only has vivid female characters who go after and accomplish their dreams, but two very complicated and steamy romances woven around the world of ballet.
The first story, Reflections, is about an accomplished ballerina Lindsay Dunne. She leaves her fast paced life, as a dancer in New York, to return to her childhood home in Connecticut. Lindsay opens a dance school and when her car stalls on her way home one day, the handsome Seth Bannion offers her a ride home. They cautiously fall in love with each other as Seth's niece Ruth shows her aspiring dancing talent to Nick, Lindsay's old company director.
The second story, Dance of Dreams, is about Ruth Bannion a principal ballet dancer, and her demanding company director Nickolai Davidov. Ever since their meeting in Lindsay's school of ballet, Ruth has been captivated by Nick. Their professional partnership blazes out of control after five years of dancing together. Her intense and complex love teaches Nick how to open his heart to her love.
This book showcases the glamorous world of ballet, and the backbreaking exhaustion that dancers endure. This is a light and quick read. Jealousy, control, and character only add to the mystique of this book. The colorful storytelling of Nora Roberts adds a mixture of sexual tension and drama. This extraordinary book will have everyone wanting to re-read it.
on the whole, not that great.......2002-06-22
If I were rating the two novels contained in this book separately, the first one would either get a 2 or a 3 and the second one would get a 4. I was thinking about what it was that made me think the first novel was mediocre, and I didn't come upon the answer until after I'd started on the second novel. In every Nora Roberts book I've read so far, her greatest strengths always seem to be the way she develops the romance between the two main characters (the romance is more important than the sex). The greater percentage of a book is told from the woman's point of view, but there's just enough from the man's point of view that you get an understanding of how his mind works. The first novel in this book, _Reflections_, has nothing from Seth's point of view. I didn't realize how much I missed that until I got the the second novel and got to see little tidbits of how Nickolai saw his and Ruth's relationship. I ended up feeling like Seth wasn't really a person. He's very one-dimensional, little more than a sharp-eyed architect who Lindsay is sleeping with.
It feels like this whole two-novel book was really about two people, Ruth and Nickolai. They're the two most interesting characters in the first novel, and their personalities practically sparkle in the second. I don't know very much about the world of dancers and ballet, but I still enjoyed reading about it. By the time I finished this book, I found myself wishing that the details about Ruth's childhood and the death of her parents had somehow been worked into the second novel and that the story of Seth and Lindsay hadn't been included (or at least that it had been written better). _Dance of Dreams_ was a bit rough at times, but it was much better than _Reflections_.
Book Description
A classic novel from the enchanting series The Donovan Legacy.
Only the phenomenal Nora Roberts could have created the remarkable Donovan clan. Fascinating and irresistible, the mysterious Donovan cousins share a secret that's been handed down through generations -- a secret that sets them apart from ordinary beings.
Captivated
His interest in her was purely professional . . . Or so he told himself. Nash Kirkland had sought out the alluring Morgana Dovovan to help him research his latest screenplay, though the hardheaded skeptic didn't believe for a minute she was what she professed to be. But, as Morgana revealed herself to him, Nash found himself falling under her bewitching spell. Nash had never trusted his feelings and always kept them in check. So how could he be sure the irresistible passion he felt for Morgana was real and not just some conjurer's trick?
The Donovan Legacy continues with Entranced, coming soon from Silhouette Books.
Customer Reviews:
A Good Story.......2006-10-28
This was a reread for me. I really like this book. It is the first in a series about the Donovan Cousins that were born each with different magical powers. Their family is magical going back many generations.
This is Morgana's story. She is the witch in the family who specializes in spells and magic. She owns a shop called Wicca that sells crystals,lotions and bath salts along with other magic tools.
Nash Kirkland is a sci-fi, horror movie writer and seeks out the infamous witch to help with the research for his next screenplay. He doesn't believe she really has powers and she isn't out to prove herself.
This is a fun fantasy filled tale. It is fun to watch him realize her power is real and to watch them fall in love. Like all good romances they have their obstacles to overcome. A Very enjoyable read.
You'll want to read the next three stories starring Morgana's cousins.
cute read, nothing dramatic.......2006-09-02
I am a lover of Nora Roberts because she always seems to be something grabbing about her novels, something that pulls me in and doesn't ever let go; then there are the books that seem to be filler books. This was a filler book.
Yes, in the typical Nora Roberts fashion, it was cute, and romantic. But there is nothing about this book that makes me regret renting it and not buying it. Don't look for the next book to add to your collection. Use it as a filler book, just something to pass the time. You won't be disappointed if you have no expectations.
It was just o.k. for me!.......2006-05-03
I had read The Reef which was a great book so I decided to read this one. Well it was just o.k. The Reef was much better!! There was just not much to it. It was just a clean cut happy story. No x-boyfriends, no enemies, nothing except that Nash thought Morgana had put a spell on him when all it was was he had fallen head over heels in love with her. Yeah you do stupid things when you are in love. If you like sappy love stories with not much of a struggle this would be perfect for you. I like my stories with a little excitement, some struggles the characters have to go through then when they do get together it makes it all the more sweeter. Plus it is more interesting to read. If you want to read an enjoyable book with action, (good), interesting main characters, tropical settings, and a realistic romance story with problems but they do work them out then read The Reef. It's a great book!!
Captivated.......2006-03-15
It is heartwarming to find the dashing Nash Kirkland find
love with the mysterious and captivating Morgana Donovan.
It's a perfect adult fantasy tale.
Captivated.......2006-01-30
Nora Roberts is always a delightful read. This was just the start. The other two in the Donovan legacy complete it. It's a re-read!
Book Description
Christmas Bride
With his imposing stature and notorious reputation, Marcus Carrera instilled fear in friends and foes alike. However, there was one woman who could see beyond the casino tycoon's formidable veneer to the gruffly tender man inside. And their destinies collided when Jacobsville sweetheart Delia Mason was unexpectedly swept up in a tidal wave of trouble while on a tropical island holiday getaway. After Carrera rescued her from an unwelcome suitor, he claimed her trembling lips in a boldly possessive kiss that left her dizzy with delight. . .and breathless for more. But in his top secret line of work, this man of mystery moved in dangerous circles. Now Carrera had to risk it all to take Delia as his beloved bride!
Customer Reviews:
ONE OF DIANA PALMER'S BEST.......2007-06-10
I am not going to write much, just want to say I have read about 80 of Diana Palmer's books and this is in my top 10. I have reread it many times, I just reread it because Lawman just came out and I am rereading her lastest books before I read Lawman. I enjoyed the whole book. Also I enjoy that this book has many of the characters from her other books show up to help.
Simply the greatest........2007-03-12
Amazing story and great book. When i read the insert by Diana Palmer saying it was one of her favorite written stories, i figured it would be like all the rest. And although the plots dont cease to be alike, this one had something different and special.
So story is about his woman (Delia) who is getting manhandled by a man in a casino. The owner of the casino (Marcus) rescues her and they both find that they have incredible chemistry from the start. The next couple of days they are with each other and manage to form a relationship that leads to Delia getting pregnant. For certain circumstances, they are forced to be apart and while Delia saves Marcus' life, she loses her baby and he suffers amnesia and can't remember Delia.
Incredible characters. Palmer always portrays the male character as arrogant, selfish, and plain annoying. Marcus however, is great. Hes not the type to play hard to get. He instantly tells Delia how he feels and he makes no excuses. The only ones he makes are in order to protect Delia from any harm that may come as a result of his past.
Delia is also great. Shes strong and passionate. She gives everything shes got and fights for whatever she believes is hers. Shes a great character and i wish Diana would portray her females like she did with Delia.
The other characters add nice elements to the story. Everything is very much in order and it works out beautifully. I dont understand why people are saying it drags. If it would to have ended in the first 30 pages, it would have been like any other Diana Palmer story. This one went on to a more interesting twist.
Highly recommend it if you are a Diana Palmer fan. Ive read over 40 of her books and find this one to be one of the best. If youve never read Palmer, then this one is a great one to start with.
On the fence about this one.......2006-01-05
I am not sure how I feel about this book other than I don't absolutely hate it or love it.
Most of the story happens at the beginning and then just drags on. The champion quilting thing was a bit much...guess Ms. Palmer needed something to make the gangster hero seem gentle. I didn't like how Marcus didn't want kids (at least not right then) but wasn't as cautious as he should have been. After Marcus got his memory back, he showed an abundance of emtion that made the story better to me. I do wish DP would throw away her cookie cutter characters though.
texan lovers.......2005-12-27
I'm Melini from Indonesia. I love Diana Palmer's books. Texan lovers is the first book that encourage me to read english book. I read it using dictionary.
In Texan Lovers, you will smile, laugh and cry. But, i just want to say Diana Palmer books always typical. You read every story with different name but the same character. What i mean that every story have the same typical story. The man always big, handsome, rough and very 'experience' also a little bit old. The woman always young, fragile and alwaysss virgiiiin also have a big crush for the man. But i always waiting for the next Diana Palmer's book.
Pretty Good.......2005-01-22
Marcus is a wonderful hero and Delia is a sweet heroine. It is true that Marcus and Delia get together very early in the book, but the following amnesia story increases the tension and suspense. I liked the amnesia twist to the story. Marcus doesn't remember anything about Delia, but he feels something for her that he can't explain. That section of the book had me biting my nails because I couldn't wait to find out what finally causes him to remember her and what his reaciton would be.
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