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Review by Jodi Israel
What kind of crazy hybrid is this?
Imagine a book the size of a mass-market paperback, but imagine it with a hardcover on it. You're imagining Fawcett's new line of "keepers" -- little bitty hardcovers featuring well-known authors. The first of these, "One Perfect Rose" by Mary Jo Putney is indeed a keeper. Putney rarely disappoints, and this is no exception. Fans of her Fallen Angels series will welcome the story of Stephen Kenyon, the Duke of Ashburton. When Stephen's doctor informs him that he has less than six months to live, he abandons his ducal post to seek peace. It is sheer good fortune that takes him to see the Fitzgerald strolling players who welcome him into their family.
For the first time, Stephen feels truly accepted. When he falls in love with their daughter Rosalind his life seems full, though impending death dogs his every step. Or does it? Putney handles this plot and several subplots with consummate skill and overwhelming tenderness. Stephen's emotions, long denied, are almost tangible. Rosalind is one of Putney's best heroines: clear headed and strong willed but brimming with love.
While you have the tissues out, pick up Kimberly Cates' "Morning Song". Prospective romance writers are cautioned against creating musical heroes, which is why Austen Dante is such a surprise. When Austen opens his door to chase a fleeing servant, he does not expect to find Hannah Gray on his doorstep begging for work. Soaked and half starved with a child in tow, Hannah will do anything to relieve her misery. When he asks her to transcribe his music, she agrees out of pure desperation. Only Austen doesn't seem to notice her lack of skill. What he does notice is that she's terribly frightened. So his protective instincts go into overdrive. As he draws her out, she does the same to him and discovers that the "Bastard of Ravenscar" is the hero of her dreams. Cates writes eloquently and emotionally. Her complex, riveting plot makes this a one-sitting novel, impossible to put down!
Back on American soil, Cait Logan's "Be Mine" contains one of the most interesting heroines I have read for some time.
The year is 1881, the place, Montana. Sam Taggart, half-Indian and all business, with a heavy chip on his shoulder, returns to his home and finds an appalling mess. He sets off to the Recht farm to hire a housekeeper. Emma Recht is 26, unmarried and plain. Of German heritage, she was six when her family immigrated to this country. She deeply respects the traditions of her family but is eager to accept Sam's offer of work. He promises to allow her to build her knit-sock business on the side. He quickly discovers her sharp mind, solid constitution, and a body that drives him into a schoolboy's arousal. Their love doesn't blossom overnight but is nurtured through day-in/day-out routine.
Through Emma Logan creates a realistic and fascinating tribute to the unsung women who helped build the West.
Jodi Israel is a member of the Romance Writers of America and can be reached at jodi@tiac.net.
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