If you travel a lot for business, there are few better companions than Lauren Henderson and her Tart City sisters. They have breezed me through red eye flights and interminable seminars. Sam Jones is saucy and fun. I only wish her first two books were available here.

Third in the series finds Sam Jones in NYC where two of her big mobiles are to be shown at a Soho gallery along with three other yBAS (young British artists). The fun of this novel is Sam's take on NY. From the wild cab rides to the hustle and bustle to the public ingesting of drugs, Sam enjoys NY and contrasts it with London.

She arrives a week early to hang her mobiles and meets the crew at the Bergmann LaTouche Gallery. Carol Bergmann is the owner and she is all efficiency and competence. But even her sangfroid is tested when the paintings of one of her regulars, Barbara Bilder, are vandalized in the gallery. And at the same time, one of the assistants at the gallery, Kate, with whom Sam was to work and with whom she felt an immediate connection, is found dead in the Strawberry Fields section of Central Park. She had been garroted and left dead on a bench. When the surly Don, who moves and hangs the installations is also found dead, Sam determines to find out who did it.

Complicating the scene is that early arrival of Lex, one of the yBAS, who had tried to stick his tongue down Sam's throat in a ladies room in a British pub a week before. Lex had been staying with Kate and now that she is dead is scared to go to the police and be implicated. And Lex had a one-night stand with another of the yBAS due to show at the gallery and she has turned into an obsessed stalker. Lex is very handsome but Sam is being faithful to her actor lover, Hugo. It is tough for Sam to do without her shag, but she manages with copious amounts of vodka and cocaine and other mind-altering substances.

This is a great read for Sam's views on things. She is a wild woman and lots of fun. Seeing the world from her viewpoint is a gas. I enjoyed this thoroughly and laughed aloud. The series just gets better and better.

Lauren has written another winner. Sam Jones, the main character, finds herself looking for clues and answers in yet another page turning mystery. Her witty style - fashion sense and humor make her one of my heroes. A quote from the novel, "..., saying a silent prayer of thanks, as so often, to the person who invented Lycra miniskirts." Here is Sam's idea on kids, "Children in any quantity give me hives." This story revolves around her first New York show. You will be trying to figure out who done it while knowing she has already got the person pegged. A must read!

Lauren Maddison has a great way of writing talking, like regular people would talk to each other. I like her writing style and this series of books featuring Connor Hawthorne is a great adventure. I hate to come to the end of the story and yet I can't put these books down. I recommend all three of these books, and I hope there's more to come very soon. Highly Recommended.

"Witchfire" is the second installment of the Connor Hawthorne mystery series. In this book Connor's beloved grandmother's grave is desecrated in Glastonbury, England in addition to other mysterious killings. Connor, along with Laura (lover), Malcolm (best friend), and Nathaniel (father), fly to England to investigate. All of them get swept up in a tangle of ancient mythology and spirituality that threatens all of their lives and the balance of humanity.

Overall, I was pleased with "Witchfire" and happy to see Connor and Laura (finally) declaring their love for each other. Maddison always does an excellent job establishing the physical presence of the places such as Glastonbury, England ("Witchfire") and New Mexico ("Deceptions"). On the other hand, there were plenty of minor editing errors that got annoying real fast. I also got a little tired of how the love between the four characters was constantly over-emphasized. I frequently said to myself, "Okay I get it already, they all share a special bond. Let's move on." Although Maddison does a good job integrating the events of "Deceptions" into "Witchfire," I think it might be a benefit to read the first book to fully appreciate the developing plot. I enjoy this series so much that I already pre-ordered the third book which is not due to be published for three months!

This author reaches for more than just standard mystery themes. There are levels within levels, and a lot of food for thought. Plus it is written with an engaging, intelligent style--a big cut above your average so-called "lesbian" fiction, and I've read it all. This book isn't obsessing about the main character being a lesbian, it's focused on the joys and challenges of an admirable and very real human being who wishes life could just be simple even though it isn't. I like that.

If you like mysteries that also make you ponder things about yourself and your beliefs, you'll love this book as much as I did. I'm particularly drawn to the myths and spiritual lore of ancient religions and Ms. Maddison has obviously tapped into a source of inspiration there. Thanks for writing it. By the way, I also enjoyed her first book, Deceptions, but I think Witchfire is even better. I called the publisher to find out if there's another in the series. YES! Coming out next fall. I can't wait.

Candance R. Gates

I enjoyed the book, and I'll probably keep my eye out for more books by this author. The background was well enough researched that I never was pulled out of the story, the main characters were interesting. I particularly liked reading a historical novel were the people were not historical characters, but lived about in the middle of what was possible economically in that time. I also liked the mystery and how Bek went about solving it.

This was a great book. I hated to put it down. If you love ancient Egypt, and a good mystery, this is the book. I could not figure out who the guilty person was till the very end of the book. What a great read!

This is another wonderful novel in the Bak series...but if anyone is expecting a "prequel," he or she will be disappointed...this books deals with Bak's first case in Buhen after his exile...it doesn't give us any more information about his fall from grace than the last book did. So..it may be the first book in the series, but it's not a prequel!

I bought the book after reading the glorious praises on this site, and I was very disappointed. Only Julia Quinn's story saves the rest of the book, her humorous characters made out a lively story. I know Stephanie Laurens' style so I didn't mind her slow pace."Rose in Bloom" is just sweet enough for short romance. My biggest disappointment is on Christina Dodd's "Under the Kilt", the characters are premature, the dialogues boring and the plot weak. The last story by Karen Ranney is so illogical. Mixed up identities from both main characters until the end of the story? Give me a break. Reading romance does not mean losing our mind.

Being a Scottish girl myself, I was pleased to happen upon this book. Also, being a huge Julia Quinn fan didn't hurt. The four short stories all dealt with, obviously, Scotland in one way or the other. Christina Dodd, who also served as editor, was the reason "Scottish Brides" merited only four stars from me. Her story was simply the weakest. Julia Quinn delivered wonderfully and I again laughed out loud and woke up my roommate. Stephaine Laurens was in fine form, very akin to "Devil's Bride" and "A Rake's Vow." Karen Ranney, whose work I had never read, impressed me a great deal and actually used some Gallic. This is a great book, overall, and a fun, light read for a rainy fall day.

I can't understand why anyone would not instantly fall in love with the four stories in this book. It's the best collection of short stories I have ever read. Each story was beautiful -- full of emotion, love and exciting endings. I hope these authors make another short story book. I will be first in line to get it.

I used to prefer long novels to short stories, but this book has convinced me of the pleasure of a good short story. Get it.

I enjoyed the historical and scientific research in this story, I also liked Ford, but I felt that Violet was a drip. Also, the overuse of the expression "Faith" (20 + times), and the constant intermingling of period and modern (slang) language really annoyed and distracted me, and prevented me from enjoying the story. I've never read any other of Lauren Royal's books, so I'm not sure I would continue with this author. I feel it odd that her research did not include the language of the time.

I've been following Lauren Royal with her Chase family series and am delighted to find her branching off with a delightful new, yet equally intersting, historical family in Violet. And how wonderful that she starts off this trilogy with Ford Chase, the eccentric studious brother from her previous books. Violet is a delightful read, true to Royal form, and I'm thrilled that she's continuing the thread in Restoration England. Don't miss any of these books!

I loved Violet. This book was amazing. I have never read anything by Lauren Royal, but that is going to change. She is definitely a rising star in the romance genre. Violet is the story of Violet Ashcroft, the oldest of the three Ashcroft daughters. She believes herself to be unmarriageable, because she is average. Not tall and beautiful like Rose, her middle sister, or Lily, who is a kind hearted soul, just plain average Violet.

When Lord Lakefield, Ford Chase, comes to stay at his property for awhile with his niece Jewel, she gets the chance to meet a scientist, because her youngest sibling, Rowan, becomes fast friends with Jewel. Ford shows Violet things she has never seen before, and he does some of the sweetest things in the world for her, such as making her glasses so she can see correctly. Unfortunately, both the protagonists have doubts though: Violet doesn't believe a man could ever love her without wanting her money, and Ford doesn't believe he is good enough for Violet because he doesn't have enough money.

As they find their way to love, the reader will be enthralled with the amazing research that went into this novel, and some surprising guest appearances such as Sir Isaac Newton, Robert Hooke, John Locke, and some other notable 18th century scientists. Lauren Royal definitely did her research on the Restoration Period, and it shows as historical information is weaved seamlessly into the characters' lives and interactions with each other. The reader even gets a tantalizing glimpse of her next novel, Lily, and what is in store for her.

All in all, a great historical romance novel. I picked this novel up on a whim, thinking it sounded somewhat interesting, and I was right. It was great! I am going to go back and read her Jewel trilogy now. If you are looking for a interesting, fresh perspective on the romance genre, then Lauren Royal is your ticket.

This book does an excellent job in helping the reader turn their thoughts from despair and anger to hope and potential. Lauren Trottar has done an outstanding job through her various research venues in building for the reader the tools of creating one's own reality. This books brings new light to the power that each of us as a human being brings through the power of our own thinking. I highly recommend the book.

In September 11: A Case For A Higher Purpose, Lauren Tratar has provided an invaluable perspective in which to regard this horrible happening. She is immensely courageous in showing us why, what is commonly viewed as "a tragedy caused by terrorism" cannot be explained as simply as that. Every thinking person realizes that our world is changing dramatically, and searching for understanding and NEW solutions -- not the customary call for vengeance -- is vital for the survival of civilization! History is proof that violence cures nothing -- it only breeds more violence, never peace or harmony, so surely it is time that we ask not only why hatred and hostility abound, but how we can overcome this. This book lets us know why we MUST heal those wounds of the spirit that lead to inhuman ways of treating each other and shows that the pathway to this is through the soul, through love replacing the self-perpetuating hatred born of vengefulness. Except for the visionaries such as Lauren Tratar, we are slow to recognize and slower still to accept the need for change. It takes something as powerful as 9/11 to jar us from apathy into committed action to making a "better world." Bravo to this author for her wise and spiritually sound suggestions for how we can -- and why we MUST! -- create that world.

This is a book that bestows great comfort and helps the reader to "make sense" out of what appears such a senseless tragedy. And if you haven't read Lauren's book, "LIFE, A Complete Operating Manual (subtitle) The Secret to Life Unveiled: Who You Really Are, How Life Really Operates, and How to Unleash the Incredible Power Within!", do you have a TREAT in store!... I appreciate Lauren Tratar so much for offering this very magnificent, important work!

This was a really good book! Amy tries to help a horse named Boxer who won't eat and he has been at Heartland for 3-days. Amy is now into showing 3'6" with her horse, Storm. They go to a show and see Ashley. Ashley has her new danish bred horse, Bright Magic. Magic is a gorgeous horse, and Amy knows he could be the perfect show horse. However, he also has a harsh kimberick and a restrictive standing martingale. Magic explodes in the ring, and Ashley takes a tumble on top of the wall jump. Amy wins, but her victory is hollowed when she sees Ashley truely scared and pale. Amy comes over to Heartland and pleads Amy's help with Magic. Meanwhile, Amy is taking care of Boxer, Sundance, Dancer, Storm, and Red. Plus, Matt has broken up with Ashley, and Amy needs to be there for him...despite all that is going on. Amy and Ty are getting really close, and they kiss in the grocery store, and Ashley snickers and tells everyone, which gets MATT mad at Amy! Despite ALL of this, Amy still works with Magic. Can Amy heal Magic, show storm, work at Heartland, and STILL have time with her family? Most of all, will Ashley listen to Amy or just blow away her training...?

HI MY NAME IS ANNA AND I JUST LOVED THIS BOOK.AND ALL OF LAUREN BROOK'S OTHER ONES. TRUE ENOUGH IS ABOUT A YOUNG GRIL NAMED AMY. ONCE AGAIN SOMETHING COMES UP IN LIFE AND IT'S UP TO AMY TO FIX IT. IT STARTS WITH A BRATY GRIL NAMED ASHLEY GRANT. SHE HAS ALWAYS BEEN RUDE TO HEARTLAND BUT THEN SHE TURNS AROUND AND ASKED AMY TO HELP HER TRAIN A EUROPEAN SHOW JUMPER NAMED BRIGHT MAGIC. AMY CAN'T SAY NO. SO SHE DECIDES TO HELP THE RICH,RUDE,ASHLEY BUT AMY DOES IT FOR THE HORSE NOT THE RIDER IN THIS CASE. I AM A WRITER MYSELF AND I WORK AT A HORSE FARM. LAUREN BROOKE HAS HELPED ME BECOME A BETTER WRITER AND GIVIN ME IDEAS FOR WHEN I WORK AT THE FARM. SO I HOPE SHE INSPIRES YOU IN SOME WAY AND TO FIND OUT HOW THE BOOK ENDS YOU'LL JUST HAVE TO READ IT FOR YOURSELF.

I thought this book and the rest of the Heartland series was absolutely brilliant. I love the original approach Lauren has taken by having her main characters use join-up and alternative remedies on the horses. I also thought the conflict between Amy and Ashley was dealt with in a very realistic way. I hope Lauren continues with this series because I never want it to end!

Amy is doing what she has always wanted;She's showing her horse Storm and taking care of damged horses at her farm Heartland. But its starting to become to much for her. To much that she almost hits one of the horses. When realtiy hits she sees that she must make a choice either showing her horse Storm or working at Heartland.If she chooses Showing she will lose her heart because her hearts at Heartland.But if she chooses Heartland will she be able to keep Storm happy with out shows?She can't seem to win either way.
If you haven't read this book u really need to because its good.
I wan't able to put it down and read it in less then 3 hours.

This book was one of the better Heartland books. It's about Amy having to decide if she wants to give up Heartland and show, give up Storm and heal horses, or keep both and stress herself out. In fact, Amy was so stressed she almost hit one of the horses. Every time Amy goes to a show, she feels guilty, because one time when she left, Sundance got colic, and another time one of the horses got her foot stuck in the barn wall.(This horse is scared of everyone except Amy.) But at the end of the book, Amy did make a choice, to find out, you have to read the book yourself!!!!!!!!!!!
This book was definately one of my favorites out of the series!

Sooner or later is a great book! The whole series is! This one is about Storm, Amy's powerful dappled grey show horse. Amy is spreading herself thin by all the work she is doing at Heartland and at shows. Amy is showing Storm and continuing her work at Heartland. Amy is telling her self she can do it all and have it all. But having it all is hard. So sooner or later Amy is going to have to make a decision between Storm, her beloved horse or Heartland her beloved home.

Such a wonderful, heart-warming book of the relationships between daughters and their mothers. I have two sisters that adore their mother and after seeing this book, my mother started to cry. You can see it in the eyes of the characters. Great photos and story telling!

This inspirational book about strong, loving women describes the caring and giving between daughters and mothers. The wonderful photos and rich stories make me thankful for my own particular roots. My mom gave this book to me and I will always treasure it. A lovely piece.

The stories in Daughters & Mothers are heart-warming, thoughtful, inspirational and educational. And, the photographs are amazing, too! This book was given to me as a gift, and I have enjoyed reading the stories time and again.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It's a great gift to give!

P.S. Check out Girlfriends, also by Jayne Wexler and Lauren Cowen. It's even better!

Not much can be said about the book that hasn't been said in the other reviews you will find here. The insight into this fascinating man's life is invaluable. His struggles and his triumphs make the everyday things we face seem small. And the boy can flat out write a song, too! But...and there is always a but...I think the publisher of this book must have had a copyeditor's strike. While it did not detract from the effect of the book, the glaring errors and typos did distract this reader. Twice, not once but two times, the author refers to the rock band Tesla as Tessler. Does the publisher not have anyone available to research and proofread a detail like this? There were other mistakes, that with a careful copyeditor, would have been caught. The rambling "And then this happened...and then this happened" style was appropriate to the rambling life of Steve Earle. My high school English teacher, however, would have given this manuscript back to Ms. St. John and her publisher and reminded them that their audience pays a lot of money to read well-edited books.

I know I am nit-picking...otherwise, I buzzed through this book in two nights. Great read, highly recommended.

Steve Earle chose to dive into the fires of hell at a young age. Before the age of 30 he had tried just about every drug under the sun and was a hardcore heroin addict. What's amazing is that Steve managed to do all this, still write amazing albums and perform and tick off everyone who cared for him in the process. Such is the life of a drug addict.

St. John's often unflattering biography (written with Earle's co-operation and input from friends, family members and former friends and business associates)captures this dynamo in action; he knew from the start what type of songs he wanted to write and record. It was always a matter of finding someone that would let him do it. The same thing goes for his drug abuse. He managed to go down for the third time and still save himself. He also managed to alienate just about anyone that cared for him without any insight into his immoral and reckless behavior.

Luckily, the same insight that allows him to inhabit the characters of his often heartbreaking songs, eventually allowed him to see himself for what he was; a junkie wielding his needle like a bulldozer and rolling everyone and everything he cared about. He still disagrees with some of his former associates, lovers, wives (he's been married 4 times and had two children out of wedlock)but he's just as apt to turn that critical eye on himself and attack his own behavior in the past.

He's still an amazing writer and performer. Unlike his mentor Townes Van Zant, Earle managed to recapture his life before his self destructive behavior took too much of a physical toll (the best quote from Earle--"If I thought I'd live this long I would have taken better care of myself" applies to him as much as to Van Zant). He just managed to finally capture the demons driving him, bottle them up and put them on the shelf for display in his songs. They'll always threaten to break out but at least he has a place to put them where they'll do less harm to him and others.

He could be (and sometime still is) an awful person to those he loves. Fortunately, he recognizes the addictive behavior that drove him for so long and drove those around him away. Hardcore Troubador is a harrowing but irrestible read--just like the very drugs that almost destroyed Earle.

He's had a hell of a life and he hasn't always been a hell of a guy...but he remains one of the most prolific, talented, and dogged songwriters around. I haven't stopped listening to Steve Earle since I've finished reading this book and his book of short stories.

He's worked hard to maintain his unique voice and his activism. This biography gets underneath all his songs - placing his music in the context of his life. I highly recommend this book, and his music.