The Girl Next Door by Peggy Gaddis is a 2013 Crimson Romance publication.
This book was originally published in 1968. Peggy Dern/Gaddis was a prolificThe Girl Next Door by Peggy Gaddis is a 2013 Crimson Romance publication.
This book was originally published in 1968. Peggy Dern/Gaddis was a prolific author with a large catalogue of medical romances under her belt. This book is one of her later releases which tended to focus on the timely topic of the Vietnam war and soldiers returning home wounded or disabled.
This is a short story – 171 pages in the 1968 print copy of this novel, the digital version claims only 100 pages. Either way it’s novella length at best. But, in this limited space the author manages to create a real soap opera of a story, filled with self-serving women, willing to use men as a means to an end, with little or no conscience about it. Oy!
Yes, this book was bad in many ways. Two women fighting over the same man- one who was sure she was in love and would never truly love another man- while the other just wanted a man to sponsor her singing career- which made them both look bad.
While this is one of those ‘Dime-store’ novels- and obviously, any book written in 1968 is dated- especially one categorized as romance- there are lessons to be learned from reading it. One is that it’s a ‘time-capsule’ experience. Today, due to intense pressure- authors may write a book set in the past- but they can’t fully capture the reality of it as today’s enlightened reader might not be able to relate- or will be outraged by the actual historical details. But, if you read a book written in a specific time you get the real deal- no modernizing involved- perhaps a bit of exaggeration, but you get a glimpse of the mindset of many, non- counter-culture young women in 1968- (though occasionally Betsy was a bit too square- another case of an author playing it safe, I'm sure-LOL!)
No formal education was mentioned- not even considered an option- it was marriage or work in a five and dime or department store- with marriage being the favored choice. This might mean settling for someone even if they weren’t your first choice or the person you had feelings for. There was a desperation there that was not healthy. Also, explored, was the way parents tended to shelter their daughters- to the point where, despite their chronological age, they remained emotionally immature.
So, despite the high dramatics, catty women, and aloof heroes, I’m so happy someone had the presence of mind to digitize these books. They aren’t going to get high ratings- especially since few people can get past the datedness- but they do give one insight into small-town 1968 mindsets- the type of books teenage girls might have been reading- which really helps us understand just how far we’ve come in many ways- and gives one perspective so as not to judge this older material too harshly. In their time, these books were probably the equivalent of a ‘Harlequin’ Romance- some better- some worse- but certainly worth preserving as a piece of history, if nothing else. Now, if someone would digitize Dern’s medical romances!!
Dearest Eulalia: A Classic Doctor Romance by Betty Neels is a 2017 Harlequin Special Release publication.
It’s so nice to see Harlequin is keeping BetDearest Eulalia: A Classic Doctor Romance by Betty Neels is a 2017 Harlequin Special Release publication.
It’s so nice to see Harlequin is keeping Betty Neels’ legacy alive.
This is a short story which, if my information is correct, first appeared in a holiday centered anthology, originally published in the early 2000’s, called ‘Mistletoe Miracles’.
Released in digital format, just in time for the holidays, this sweet historical romance is centered around Eulalia, who lives with her ailing grandfather and works at the local hospital.
When Aderik van der Leurs, a surgeon, arrives in town, he immediately takes an interest in Eulalia, and quickly proposes marriage. Initially, Eulalia is reluctant, but a sad turn of events will prompt her to reconsider, even it is only a marriage of convenience… or is it?
Aderik is content to allow Eulalia to believe the marriage is not a love match, that they can be friends, and enjoy one another’s company until such a time that Eulalia feels comfortable in the marriage. But, of course, he’s already in love with her, and wants her to fall in love with him in her own time.
Eulalia soon becomes frustrated by her developing feelings, believing Aderik does not return them, while he wishes fervently she would fall for him, sooner rather than later.
Aderik is a little arrogant, I suppose, presuming Eulalia will eventually fall for him, but he does have the patience of Job and was very sweet and romantic, and Eulalia is sensitive, longing for true love, but believing it to be elusive. She is also a strong character and very likable.
This is such a short story, and is not really the best representation of Neels’ work, but I still enjoyed the sweet, old fashioned, very chaste, romance.
I am a late bloomer when it comes to reading romance. But, I discovered Betty Neels when I started my vintage paperback collection some years back. I loved her stories, all of them sweet and emotional, but of course very, very, very old fashioned.
So, in all honesty, these books might be better suited for her long time fans who will love having these classic stories available to read on their tablets. For modern romance readers, please be aware of instalove and other outdated or wildly unpopular themes. ( I heard that collective groan!!) But, if you can understand the era in which Neels’ was so very popular, and in this case, the historical settings in the story, you might find her stories are timeless classics and quite lovely.
This one is recommended for fans of this author, first and foremost- but if you long for good old-fashioned love stories, but have given up all hope of ever finding any in the age of Christian Grey, then Betty Neels’ is the author you are looking for.
Royally Roma by Teri Wilson is a 2017 Pocket Star publication.
Royally Roma is a cute tribute to, and retelling of the classic Audrey Hepburn movie, ‘Royally Roma by Teri Wilson is a 2017 Pocket Star publication.
Royally Roma is a cute tribute to, and retelling of the classic Audrey Hepburn movie, ‘Roman Holiday’.
Julia Costa is living in Rome, hiding out and escaping the public humiliation her father wrought on her family and nursing her wounds. She is employed as a tour guide while she works on her PhD.
A mix up has her giving Niccolo La Torre a private tour through Rome, mistakenly believing him to be someone else, and has absolutely no idea he is the Crown Prince of Lazaretto.
Niccolo is weary of covering up for his brother’s wild and uncensored behavior and carrying the entire burden of being the Crown Prince on his own. So, needing a break from his responsibilities, he takes advantage of Julia’s mistake and allows himself to be taken around Rome on a private one day tour, deliberately shirking his obligations.
Naturally, things get a wee bit complicated when Niccola is unable to pay his bill, and Julia discovers his true identity and her scandalous past is revealed.
This is a delightful story, although it moves along at breakneck speed and there is little time for a slow romantic build up. So, there is an immediate attraction, but it works in this instance. The frenetic pacing did hurt the character depth and development, but I’m thinking this story works okay despite that. It’s the type of book you pick up when you need a change from too much drama and angst, and just want a light, easy, romantic escapist read.
This one is not intended to be overly serious and if taken in that context is charming and entertaining.
3 stars
* I was provided a copy of this book as an XOXpert, the official street team of XOXO After Dark. ...more
Rainsong by Phyllis A. Whitney is a 1984 Ballantine publication.
I have an enormous collection of vintage paperbacks and especially love the cover artRainsong by Phyllis A. Whitney is a 1984 Ballantine publication.
I have an enormous collection of vintage paperbacks and especially love the cover art on the Gothic Romance novels from the 60’s and 70’s. Collecting those old paperbacks introduced me to Phyllis Whitney some years back, and I have tried to locate as many of her novels as possible. I have not read all of them, but am working on incorporating these books into my reading schedule more often.
While Phyllis A. Whitney began writing novels way back in the early 1960’s, and made a name for herself in the Gothic Romance and Mystery genre which was wildly popular in those days, this book was written well after the Gothic romance had gone out of style, and falls more into the romantic suspense category.
I have to say this, although I know it sounds like the worst kind of cliché, but they sure don’t write ‘em like this anymore, and that’s a real shame.
Hollis is a songwriter who married Ricky, a pop star, but remained sheltered from his professional life until he begins to succumb to drugs and alcohol, spiraling towards depression, which leads her to the discovery of a mistress, who will commit suicide a shortly after Hollis meets her. A year later, Ricky followed suit by committing suicide as well.
Now Hollis is left to deal with the aftermath, as managers, the media and fans all want to control Ricky’s estate and push her into making rash decisions. So, when an old friend of her father’s, offers Hollis the chance to stay at her grand estate for a time, to pull herself together, and perhaps get back to writing songs, it seems like Hollis has been thrown a lifeline. Until she arrives at the huge old mansion and is not exactly welcomed with open arms by the staff and others residing on the grounds.
But, shocking revelations come to light that connects Ricky to this estate, which could lead to the truth about his death and could put Hollis in grave danger.
Could Ricky have been a murderer or was he a victim too?
This taut and creepy chiller is the perfect book to curl up with on a stormy night. The author creates a sinister element that builds and builds until it becomes nearly unbearable. While Hollis is manipulated and ‘handled’ by everyone surrounding her, the reader can’t trust a single person in the story and I think I suspected nearly everyone at one time or another. I have to say that although these older titles can be rather transparent at times, I was genuinely surprised by how everything turned out.
Hollis’ character is typical of the time frame the book was written in, so she does seem a little too naïve and gullible in some cases, and of course modern readers may find that off putting, but if you keep an open mind and try to look past some of the dated qualities, which weren’t all that bad, really, then you will find the writing here to be outstanding and the author’s ability to create such an edgy, suspenseful atmosphere is mindboggling, since I seldom see this in current romantic suspense novels, which tends to rely on more explosive tactics to create suspense, but it isn’t nearly as effective as this type of slow burn, full of stunning twists that messes with the mind and had me feeling jumpy and nervous. Again, I really wish someone could recreate this type of chiller, giving it a makeover to appeal to our modern sensibilities.
This story is also refreshingly free of graphic violence, sexual situations, and offensive language, which I can use a break from now and then. I promise you won’t even notice it’s missing.
Overall, this is a very solid mystery suspense novel by one of the best authors of this time period. This particular book is not available in electronic format that I could see, but can be found on Ebay and the Amazon marketplace, and perhaps in your local used bookstore. If you ever come across a copy, I hope you will give it shot.
Skye O'Malley by Bertrice Small is a 1981 publication. I checked this book out from my Overdrive library account.
I recently read a novel by this authSkye O'Malley by Bertrice Small is a 1981 publication. I checked this book out from my Overdrive library account.
I recently read a novel by this author in which Skye's granddaughter was featured, which prompted me to go back and check out the original O'Malley saga.
Written way back in 1981, I was sure this book would be quite different and I was right. Not only that Bertrice Small wrote historical romance novels that were way ahead of their time and not at all like anything else being published in the early 80's and certainly not like anything being published today.
Skye O'Malley's reputation preceded her and I was geared up for adventure, a torrid saga, intrigue, heartbreak and triumph. And that is exactly what is portrayed here. But, the story was uneven, with Skye bouncing around from man to man, some cruel, some erotic, and one who really does love her.
Love at first sight is now out of fashion, but back in the time period this book was written in, it was not unheard of for two people to instantly lock eyes and have their libidos take over, meaning a marriage would have to take place. Sadly, for Skye when she meets the love of her life she is betrothed to another man, one she despises. So, she is initially denied her happy ever after and will go through all sorts of adventures and trials, marriages, births, and drama and will even trigger the wrath of Bess Tudor.
The saga will continue on through several more books, and I have the second one checked out already. However, I do hope the series gets better, because while I knew what to expect before I dove in with this one, I thought it was just a little too much in the drama department.
Skye was a strong heroine, especially for the time frame in which the book was written. She was smart, had a good head for business, did her best to fight male domination in her life and find her way back to the love of her life.
The realistic portrayal of how women were treated in the 1600's makes for some uncomfortable reading at times, so if you are not a person who grew up reading bodice rippers, and you don't know what to expect from them, this book is probably not for you.
It can be harsh, but I think it was probably right on track with how things were really were. However, the modern reader may not be able to understand that, and most seem to prefer reality be left out of the equation these days.
While this fist book was not as strong an outing as I had hoped, I will at least read the second book and see if things improve.
Wild About Harry by Linda Lael Miller is a 1991 Silhouette Desire publication. This book review will be featured on my "Turn Back Tuesday" post at TheWild About Harry by Linda Lael Miller is a 1991 Silhouette Desire publication. This book review will be featured on my "Turn Back Tuesday" post at The Book Review- http://www.cluereview.blogspot.com...more
A Little Too Much by Lisa Desrochers is an Avon publication released in November 2013. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and EdelweiA Little Too Much by Lisa Desrochers is an Avon publication released in November 2013. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Hilary has had a very hard life for a woman just entering her twenties. Having survived the horrors of living in a group home and with a mother in prison, Hilary has pulled herself together the best she could. She now works hard to become a singer and dancer on Broadway. She has a boyfriend, but there is little real emotional attachments since Hilary "doesn't do love". When Alessandro shows up on her doorstep out of the blue, Hilary's past comes rushing back. When they were in the group home together, Alessandro and his troubled older brother, Lorenzo were both involved with Hilary. Alessandro has decided not to enter the priesthood after all, but still feels the weight of his brother's death and the crimes they were both a part of. Needing to make some sort of peace with the girl he feels like he took advantage of, Alessandro begs for Hilary's forgiveness. Initially, Hilary isn't in a forgiving mood.
As the story progresses we are given insight into what life was like in the group home. Hilary was sexually active way too early in her life to emotionally cope. Lorenzo was rough and was all Hilary had to go on. Alessandro showed her the difference, but he and Lorenzo left her and she became a victim to some pretty rough characters in the home. For years, Hilary has blamed Alessandro for his abandonment.
Now each week the two meet and try to put the painful past to rest. However, there are some HUGE reveals that will either bring everyone closer together or it will tear them all apart.
Alessandro and Hilary's story is a little more on the dark side. Hilary is fortunate to have come out of her teens without being in worse shape. Alessandro is the same way. Both of them were victims of poor parenting and a lack of supervision and familial love. I had some issues with Mallory and some issues with Alessandro as well. Mallory attempted to control the situation, but not because she thought she was doing the right thing for all concerned, but because she was thinking of herself. Then, Alessandro was frustrating by being way too passive. Hilary's accusations were spot on. Alessandro needed to show a little more backbone and be a man. I liked Hilary the most, and admired her for having survived a terrible beginning in life and for being strong enough to forgive and help others to forgive as well. The ending was perfect. The acknowledgment of the fact that Hilary will still have many issues to face and will need for Alessandro to be patient with her was more realistic than trying to convince us that everything will be a bed of roses for everyone in the future. There is still a very complicated family dynamic that will require a lot of give and take to make it all work and that won't be easy. Everyone is off to a good start though and I was very happy with the way it all came out. Overall this one is an A. ...more
Running the Red Light by Kelsey Browning is a January 2014 Carina Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for Running the Red Light by Kelsey Browning is a January 2014 Carina Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Roxanne has opened a lingerie shop with the apt title of "The Red Light". Her shop is located in the small Texas town of Shelbyville. She attends a charity fundraiser for a cause that is near and dear to her heart. She meets a lawyer named Jamie at the fundraiser. She never thought she would have to call upon him for his services. When Roxanne's old employer sees a write up about the fundraiser and Roxanne's lingerie is featured and her shop promoted, she sues Roxanne. Why? Well, it seems Roxanne signed a "no competition" contract and is now in breach of contract.
Jamie came from humble beginnings. He is now on the short list to make partner in a prestigious law firm. It has been his goal and dream to someday make partner, but he never thought he would have to sell his soul to achieve it. His boss has hinted that Jamie could be chosen for partnership if he had a wife. Not only that, the boss would really be impressed if Jamie were to marry his daughter.
But, when Roxanne calls Jamie to help her with the lawsuit, Jamie begins to feel more and more like making partner would be like making a deal with the devil and his enthusiasm begins to wane. In the meantime, he is completely taken in by Roxanne. She is hard working, smart, has a big heart, doesn't mind fighting for her dreams, and maybe she is also suffering from a disorder that many are too embarrassed to admit to, which makes her drive to succeed all the more impressive. But, there are many obstacles in Roxanne's way. Her former boss, Ashton, is not giving up without a fight. She too is determined to prove she can be successful on her own.
With everyone is an uproar over The Red Light, hilarity erupts a time or two, there are a couple of really good cat fights, lots of steamy sex, a few hurt feelings, a few scrapes and bruises, second chances for love, family dramas, and a whole lot of good old fashioned soul searching that will bring about some life altering changes for some.
I loved this book. The small town of Shelbyville could be any small American town. There is a sense of community and caring that can be at times feel like an intrusion, but deep down you wouldn't have it any other way. I loved the character growth as Roxanne, Jamie and Ashton all matured and learned what really matters in life. I also cheered the author's decision to speak out about reading disabilities and how they can be overcome and worked around. Many people suffer in silence like Roxanne did. There is nothing to be embarrassed about. Seek help and work hard and welcome support from family and friends. This was a well rounded story with a great group of characters you will care about and root for. This was a wonderful novel that would appeal to lovers of contemporary romance and chick lit. This one gets an A+...more
All Dressed Up by Lucy Hepburn is a Diversion Books publication and was released in August 2013. I received a DRC of this book from the publisher and NAll Dressed Up by Lucy Hepburn is a Diversion Books publication and was released in August 2013. I received a DRC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Molly is on her way to Italy for her sister, Caitlyn's, wedding. With a romantic stop in Paris, Molly is sure her long time boyfriend, Reggie, is about to propose. Instead, he breaks up with her, leaving her alone in Paris while he jets back to the U.S. for his big break as an actor. Before Molly can digest what just happened, her sister calls in tears. Her dress will not arrive until the day of the wedding. So, Molly volunteers to pick the dress up for her on her way to Venice. Caitlyn's unspoken wariness at that idea has Molly remembering a whole lot of past hurts. Caitlyn thinks Molly will damage the dress or screw up somehow. So, already feeling defensive, Molly becomes a nervous wreck when she arrives to retrieve the dress and it's not there. Once located, the designer's assistant, Pascal, is assigned to accompany Molly and the dress to Venice for a personal fitting. On the plane Molly meets a nice guy named Simon. The two get off to a rocky start when Simon disses the fashion industry, which just happens to be Molly's career and passion. But, when the plane has to make an unexpected landing and Molly winds up stranded with Simon and Pascal, and the dress makes yet another detour, the three of them get to know each other a little better. This book is hilarious. The dress goes through so many obstacles it's insane. Simon just wants to get to Venice, but gets caught up in Molly and Pascal's dramas. So much so, that even though it goes against his personal principles regarding the fashion industry, he will do anything for Molly and that ridiculous wedding dress everyone is so hung up on. All these issues has Molly behaving like a bridezilla herself. She desperately wants her sister to have the wedding of her dreams, despite her personal reservations about the marriage and her jealousy over Caitlyn's close relationship with their mother. When Molly meets up with her mother she finally has the chance to get some of these things off her chest. But, a really serious situation develops that has Caitlyn and Molly realizing that there are more important things than big weddings and designer dresses. While Caitlyn still gets her happy ever after, what about Molly? Is there a future with Simon or will Reggie have a change of heart? This book had the perfect blend of romance, comedy, and drama. Nothing was over done. It came out just right. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves romantic comedies, chick lit, and contemporary romance. This was a really fun book that deserves an A....more
Frederica by Georgette Heyer is a 2009 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication. (Originally published in 1965)
Utterly charming!
The Marquis of Alverstoke, Frederica by Georgette Heyer is a 2009 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication. (Originally published in 1965)
Utterly charming!
The Marquis of Alverstoke, a confirmed bachelor, generously becomes the sponsor for his cousin, Frederica, who seeks his help in presenting her beautiful sister, Charis, into society. Once he lays eyes on the beauty, he goes out of his way to help her, but soon finds himself embroiled in Federica’s dramas, while becoming an unwitting father figure to her young brothers, who are currently in her charge.
Although Lord Alverstoke is easily bored, he is puzzled by his fondness for his delightful cousin and the pleasure he finds in spending time with her brothers.
Frederica’s concerns are always centered on her siblings and doing right by them, completely disregarding the prospect of finding a husband of her own. Yet, she occasionally finds herself shaking off stray thoughts of Lord Alverstoke.
When a shocking development commands Frederica’s attention, Charis is planning to marry a man her sister does not approve of….
I have been a very long break from Regency period historical romance. Recently, I’ve found myself in the mood to bring historical romance back into my reading rotation, while also working through some titles on my TBR list. I have read a few of Georgette Heyer’s novels in the past- mostly her mystery novels- but if one is looking for a nice, clean, polite regency romance, Heyer is certainly a ‘go-to’ author.
One knows what to expect from a regency romance- so of course, there’s a great deal of fluff here, but there are some moments of suspense and concern, and Lord Alverstoke’s character takes great stride, redeeming him of his shallow self-absorptions. Frederica is a lovely, vibrant character, and I really enjoyed her dialogue and spirit.
Overall, this was a nice change of pace for me. Heyer’s books are what I refer to as ‘pure’ regency romance. These are so fun to read from time to time- and are good for my mental state, as well! Yes, I think it is time to start adding more of these lovely stories back into my regular reading routine!
Loading...
