Sneak Previews of Romance & Women's Fiction

Last updated March 15, 2003!


Scroll down to see

Linda Windsor has a new book!.
Kate Huntington's story in Untamable was called the best of a top pick read by Romantic Times.
Cynthia Pratt's Black Mask will intrigue you.



This page used to feature exciting sneak previews of full-color romance novel covers, often before the publishers' official release dates, along with back cover copy. It has not been updated lately due to illness in the family of romance author Janet Lynnford. She hopes to return working with it again in the future.

In the past, Julia of Venezuela won a copy of Janet Lynnford's FIREBRAND BRIDE
Marelou of New Jersey just won a copy of Kate Huntington's A ROGUE FOR CHRISTMAS
Liz of Michigan won her choice of a Kate Huntington romance.
Jenni of Omaho won her choice of a book by Stephanie Mittman.
Cheryl of Calif chose Kate Huntington's THE CAPTAIN'S COURTSHIP.
Linda of Nevada won a copy of Linda Windsor's HI HONEY I'M HOME.
Sara from Florida selected THE WHOLE NINE YARDS by Donna Valentino.
Christine of New Foundland, Canada, won a copy of Tracy Sumner's Carolina Rose.
Chris of Florida won a copy of Teresa Medeiros' Charming the Prince.
Shannon of Canada her choice of a Lynn Kerstan Regency romance.
Ann of Alabama won a copy of Barbara McMahon's
Triumph of Love, a 1998 Laurel Wreath Competition winner.
Doris of TN won a copy of Carol Steward's
There Comes A Season.
Wynn of Michigan won her choice of a Claire Delacroix historical romance.
Debbie of New Jersey won a copy of
Karen Marie Moning's Beyond the Highland Mist
Becky of Washington won a copy of
Fran Baker's Once a Warrior.
Winners are notified by e-mail!
Correct your address in our guestbook if it has changed!


Featured Authors:

The Merchant Prince Regency romance book cover jpg

animated heartKATE HUNTINGTON


THE MERCHANT PRINCE
Zebra Regency Romance
ISBN 0-8217-7097-7
July 2002

A Stranger Won Her Heart

At the age of seventeen, Amelia Coomb already knew the pain of a broken heart when she arrived in paris in search of her fiance's grave. Reeling from her loss, Amelia was grateful to a sympathetic stranger dressed all in black who offered kind words. She assumed the man was a priest, and when she found herself falling in love with him, Amelia knew she must leave him. Now at one-and-twenty, she is a stronger, wiser woman for having followed the man's advice. And she is fully prepared to enjoy her tour of the splendors of Venice ...

But Will a Prince Win Her Hand?

Venetian nobleman Andreas Briccetti never meant for the lovely, fragile young Amelia to think he was a man of the cloth. But before he knew it, she had jumped to the wrong conclusion -- which she clung to until they parted ways. Now, four years later, an unexpected gift arrives at his marble palace on the Grand Canal in the form of the lady herself.
He never imagined he'd need to explain his past charade to her -- nor to reveal his new identity as a resistance fighter. But even as he attempts to protect Amelia from the intrigue and danger surrounding him, Andreas realizes that nothing can protect his heart from her charms.

And don't miss
>Untamable Regency romance anthology book cover jpg

animated heartKATE HUNTINGTON


"A BREATH OF SCANDAL"A Romantic Times TOP PICK!
In the Zebra Regency Rakes and Rogues anthology titled
UNTAMABLE
ISBN 0-8217-7415
October 2002

Romantic Times says, "Abigail Pennington's only reason for remaining in Society is to see her niece securely married to a man she once thought might offer for her instead in "A Breath of Scandal." In the best of the three stories in this anthology, Kate Huntington keeps her readers guessing until the very end."
But when a handsome stranger moves in next door, even sensible Abigail can't help but take notice. After all, Gabriel Bourbonnais is extremely dashing -- with a mysterious past and charming accent no one can quite place. The question is, will Gabriel be revealed as a man of noble blood -- or little more than a royal charlatan?

Romantic Times gave Kate Huntington's October 2001 book, A ROGUE FOR CHRISTMAS, four stars for an excellent read!


"Kate Huntington's got a knack for family dynamics and gives us a sweet and satisfying romance to savor over a cup of hot chocolate and a cheerful blaze." -- Teresa Roebuck, Romantic Times

"Oh my! A hero who's a golden god and a winsome heroine find love at Christmas. Add adorable children and a big dog. Bliss. How could I resist? Indulge yourself in this very special Christmas present for readers." -- Edith Layton, author of THE CONQUEST, from Harper Collins, August 2001, and THE DEVIL'S BARGAIN, Harper Collins, April 2001 To correspond with Kate Huntington, e-mail her here.


CASEY contemporary romance book cover jpg

animated heartLORI FOSTER


CASEY
Harlequin
ISBN 0-373-83568-X
December 2002


Remember Sawyer, Morgan, Gabe and Jordan? The sexiest brothers in Buckhorn County. Now meet Sawyer's son, Casey... Like father, like son!

Emma Clark was back in Buckhorn. As a teen she'd been the girl with the bleached-blond hair, too much makeup and a bad reputation - and she'd tried everything she could to get Casey Hudson into bed. He'd been the cutest guy in town, and the only one who seemed to really care about her.

As a hot-blooded teen it had been hard for Casey to resist Emma. But now, eight years later, it was impossible. Emma's adult sensuality was more subtle, more beguiling. He had to have her. But Emma was doing her best to shut him out. Casey had to convince her the attraction wasn't just leftover teenage lust, but his real love for a real woman...

Readers and booksellers, visit Lori Foster's web page here!




Mr Congeniality Harlequin Superromance contemporary romance book cover jpg

animated heartSHERRY LEWIS


MR. CONGENIALITY
Harlequin Superromance
July 2002

Dean Sheffield has been hurt-in more ways than one. The car accident that robbed him of his baseball career also took away the woman he loved. Now he's starting over with a new business--the Eagle's Nest Dude Ranch in Whistle River, Montana. He's also been asked to take his teenage nephew for the summer, but Dean has no idea what's in store for him. The only thing he does know is that women are the last thing on his mind.

Annie Holladay is also starting over, gearing up for a new career and spending a few precious months with her daughter before Nessa moves in with Annie's soon-to-be ex-husband. Annie also has her hands full working at the Eagle's Nest for the summer, especially after she realizes that she and Dean are attracted to each other.

It's too bad they agree it's not the right time to start a relationship because the attraction between them is becoming a distraction for them both.

Sherry says, "I hope you'll pick up Mr. Congeniality when it hits the book stores or find it at your favorite on-line book store. I'd love to hear from you after you've read it." You can reach her at her e-mail here. And be sure to see her bio at , Jove Authors web page. Her next time travel, Only Time Will Tell, will be out in April 2003.



Almost Perfect contemporary romance book cover jpg>
<IMG SRC=

PATRICIA RICE


ALMOST PERFECT
Ivy Romance, from Ballantine Books
ISBN 0-449-00603-4

February 26, 2002

Author Mary Jo Putney calls Almost Perfect, "Brilliant and revealing, edgy and funny."

Celebrated cartoonist Jared McCloud is plumb out of laughs. So he rents a secluded beach house for the fall to unlock his creative juices--and ends up falling for the reluctant landlady whose beautiful blue-eyed glare reads like a "No Trespassing" sign against the world.

Cleo Allyssum isn't exactly a recluse, though living on an island and avoiding people aren't the actions of a social butterfly. Cleo simply has more important things to do than to chat with the sexy artistic, impossibly bullheaded hunk living in her guest house. Yet somehow Jared and his devilish charm inch their way into her life, reaching the warm places her cold exterior cleverly hides. Will Cleo open her heart to a man who falls short of her expectations? After all, it wasn't her intention to fall for someone who is almost perfect. . . .

Must Be Magic historical romance novel book cover jpgComing in August 2002, don't miss Patricia Rice's MUST BE MAGIC.
Bewitching society temptress Lady Leila Staines needs agricultural scientist Dunstan Ives' help to grow flowers for her magic potions. The cynical aristocrat needs the lady's help to pursue his experiments--but disbelieves her magical theories--until they prove him innocent of killing his wife. Together, they must overcome the destructive forces and prejudices that keep them apart, until both learn that love creates a magic all its own.







White Dawn Western historical romance novel coverjpg

animated heartSUSAN EDWARDS

WHITE DAWN
Dorchester Publishing (Leisure Historical)
Book 7 in Edwards's White Series
Coming in May 2002!

From the author of White Dove comes the next exciting installment in the "white" series--WHITE DAWN!

Love's Dawning

Emily Ambrose had her share of dark days. Her birth father abandoned her in the wilds of the Michigan Territory, and Indians slaughtered her adoptive missionary parents. Some good had come of it, though. Through her rescuer, she had discovered passion. Yet he, too, was destined to leave. After one summer of bliss, Swift Foot was gone, and Emily found herself in the care of a trapper.

She was no longer looking for love. That had come and gone, and now Emily was seeking safety. Big John Cartier promised it. But the big mountain man also pledged something else. He vowed a steady devotion, a desire to vanquish all the dangers yet to come. In his arms, Emily began to understand: The hot sparks of a season's passion flare bright, but they fade. It is the unquenchable flame of true love that lights one's life. And with that knowledge came a surety that tomorrow would be brighter than any day she'd ever known.

Rave Reviews for White Dove
"Talented author Susan Edwards creates memorable characters in her new release, White Dove, the latest in her White series. Readers will enjoy Jeremy's story and appreciate the richness of Ms. Edwards' historical research." ~~Bobbi Smith, Author of the Bestselling Book, Brides of Durango

"--An awesome read . . . highly recommend . . . This series ROCKS!" HUNTRESS BOOK REVIEWS (Reviewed by Detra Fitch) http://www.huntr essreviews.com/histrom.htm

"Author Susan Edwards still has the talent of hooking her readers in the first paragraph and selfishly holding onto them until the last page has been turned. Highly recommended reading!"
--Huntress Reviews, http://www.huntresssreviews.com/histrom.htm

"Susan Edwards' White series is a wonder that keeps on giving. . . . --a rare talent . . . "
--Melody Jacobs, Romance Communicationss

WHITE DREAMS is an exceptional romance - a stunning tribute to the historical romance genre. Don't miss this spellbinding story, for no one writes about the heart like Susan Edwards. It will pierce your soul and leave you starstruck. -- Pamela James, Old Book Barn Gazette


Romantic Times says Susan Edwards writes "relationships. . . that truly touch your heart."
For more information about Susan Edwards' current and forthcoming books, visit her web page here, or e-mail her here !


Bride of Fair Isle Scotland historical romance novel bookcover jpg

animated heartJANET LYNNFORD

SHETLAND SUMMER
Onyx Books
ISBN 0-451-41032-7 May 2002

Travel with Drummond Graham, the young cousin of Alex Graham from Firebrand Bride, to the beautiful windswept Shetland Islands just north of Scotland.

On a summer night during the season of the midnight sun, a herd of wild ponies runs free . . . and a handsome wanderer meets a silver-haired enchantress. . . .

THE MAN BELOVED BY WOMEN


Drummond Graham's business on the island is seemingly simple--to purchase wool. But his ability to charm women and draw out their deepest confidences raises the suspicions of Gemma Sinclair, companion to the Lady of the Shetland Isles. Even as she falls under his seductive spell, she wonders. Is the green-eyed warrior masking a darker purpose for coming to the isles.

THE FAIR LASS FROM THE ISLES


When Gemma offers to guide Drummond around the island, he questions her motives. Her beauty touches his senses, and her innocent courage, his soul. But surely her loyalty lies with the tyrannical laird who holds her uncle prisoner and thwarts Drummond's secret quest. Despite his doubts, when Gemma faces deceipt and danger, Drummond handfasts with her. His daring tumbles them into a tantalizing intimacy that demands his decision. Should he continue his perilous quest alone? Or should he trust both Gemma and his passion, making her his bride of the summer isles in truth. . . .

Still available in some stores!! BRIDE OF HEARTS, the story of the fourth Cavandish sibling, Matthew, who returns from years in the Caribbean to find his rebellious 13-year-old son has been taken under the wing of a woman as beautiful as a fairy queen.

Tess Gerritsen, NY Times bestselling author of the New York Times bestselling novel, The Surgeon, says Lynnford's last book, Firebrand Bride, is "Lush and sexy. A compelling read that brings the romance of the Scottish countryside to life."

Eve Byron, Karen Harper, Kat Martin, Teresa Medeiros, Linda Lael Miller, and Patricia Rice have all read Lynnford's books and given them a rousing thumbs up, not to mention fabulous quotes for her covers, so what are you waiting for? Don't miss Firebrand Bride and Bride of Hearts.

Library Journal says of Bride of Hearts, "Rich with historical detail and insightful characterizations, this intricately plotted story skillfully entangles its characters in a deadly web of murder and political intrigue as it credibly--and occasionally chillingly--depicts the political undercurrents, jockeying for influence, and royal meddling and manipulation so typical of the Elizabethan court."

For more of Janet Lynnford's heartwarming stories of romance and adventure, watch for SHETLAND SUMMER (originally titled BRIDE OF FAIR ISLE, May 2002) and SPELLBOUND SUMMER (August 2002). Read an excerpt from Shetland Summer here. Read an excerpt from Spellbound Summer here.For more about Lynnford's books, visit her web page here.


Linda Windsor's Deidre inspirational romance book cover jpg

animated heartLINDA WINDSOR

DEIDRE: FIRES OF GLEANNMARA, BOOK III
Winner of a 2002 Christy Award!
Multnomah Publishers, Palisades Historical/Inspirational Romance

March 2002

Riona, the second book in Linda's Gleannmara series, won The Christy, the award for the best inspirational romance.

NO CHOICE . . .
Kieran, the proud warrior-king of Gleannmara was once rejected by the lovely Riona of Dromin, but this time the willful lady will have no choice in accepting him. He promised his dying best friend, her brother, to give Riona his protection as her lord and husband. She must give up her absurd dedication to a fickle God who lets the good die, while the vile go unmolested. Kieran's sword and lifelong love is all she will need.

GOD'S WILL?
Her attachment to three orphans of the plague lead Riona to doubt her chosen future in the Church, especially when she suspects the motives of the couple who intend to adopt them. She can not adopt a family, not without a husband. When the arrogant Kieran of Gleannmara rides through the abbey gate, Riona cannot believe this is the answer God sent to her prayers. Much as she loves him as a childhood friend, she could never accept his swaggering arrogance in life and anger at her God over his lost loved ones.

LED BY A CHILD . . . OR THREE? Their options disappear after they stumble upon a treasonous plot and Kieran is framed for the murder of the abbot. Incapacitated by a wound, the prideful warrior becomes a fugitive, fleeing for justice at the high king's court and dependent on the faith and wit of a would-be nun and her prodigal band of homeless waifs in an adventure of faith, hope, and love.

"Linda Windsor never fails to delight and inspire with her unique insights into the human heart and soul." --Eve Byron, author of My Lord Destiny

"Ms. Windsor has a very special book here from page one, where she uses the voice of Ireland's earth mother to tell the history of her people; the ancient Irish. . . . Joining author Michael Phillips, Linda Windsor provides readers with a lush Celtic saga sure to touch their spiritual soul with a promise of love both secular and religious. MAIRE is a breakout book sure to find it's way to many a bestseller and reader's keeper lists, creating a whole new subgenre where a Windsor book is going to be the classic standard to achieve. --Jody Allen, Romancing the Celtic Soul

Linda Windsor's Along Came Jones contemporary inspirational romance book cover jpg

animated heartLINDA WINDSOR

ALONG CAME JONES
Multnomah Publishers, Palisades Historical/Inspirational Romance
ISBN 1590520327
March 2003

Diana Wells lost track of God in her hard-earned quest for success in the New York advertising world. Now she's accused of embezzlement, fleeing for her life with nowhere else to turn.

When trail outfitter Shepherd Jones runs Diana's car off the road, the ex-U.S. Marshal isn't sure what to make of his comely stray. Instinct says this duchess of disaster is on the run and needs help--a girl like her can't last long in the forsaken outpost of Buffalo Butte. But is Shep willing to risk his life and his heart to offer her the same refuge God once provided him?

To read excerpts from Hi Honey, I'm Home, Linda Windsor's bestselling romance from Palisades, visit Linda Windsor's web page here!


Mrs. Love contemporary romance e-book cover jpg

animated heartKATHY THURLOW

MRS. LOVE
Thorndike Press, Five Star
BR>Available this spring!!

Fresh from a divorce from a controlling husband, Caroline Love gets herself a new hairdo, a new sports car, and a new attitude. The former Mrs. Love sets out on a six-week tour to visit and write about bed-and-breakfast inns. Her first and only stop is Blackwood's Castle, owned by Kevin Manion, who falls in love with Caroline at first sight. As fate would have it, Caroline's short stay stretches on after the entire staff of Blackwood's quits and Caroline volunteers to work at the castle. Things become interesting when the family that has taken her for granted comes to help her keep the castle running smoothly. Caroline's feelings for Kevin are strong, but years of hearing how unattractive and undesirable she is have taken their toll. It's up to Kevin to convince her that life does in fact offer second chances. Ms. Thurlow's views on life after divorce are refreshing. --Chandra Y. Sparks for Romantic Times

"What can I say about Kathy Thurlow's "Mrs. Love" that will express exactly how I feel about it? Sharp, focused, funny, intense, witty and observant, painfully real, wonderfully entertaining. . . How about this: I read it twice. The first time I read it for the wonderful love story. The second time I read it simply to savor Thurlow's sly wit and wisdom and warmth. Mrs. Love made me laugh and cry and shake my head at the puzzle we call love. This is a winner! Kathy Thurlow is an author to watch." --Bestselling author Barbara Bretton

"Caroline Love is a 'big, plain, brown hen.' But when her husband dumps her and her grown children conspire to use her as a live-in housekeeper, she transforms herself into a fiery beauty who runs away to an enchanted mountain castle complete with a handsome prince, a wicked witch, and a ghostly fairy godmother. This is a book to be savored and enjoyed like a fine wine that matures with age. Mrs. Love is a tale of healing, rebirth, and new awakenings that will tug at even the hardest of hearts." --Diana Kirk, author of Song of Isis

"Ms. Thurlow has done a wonderful job of presenting a middle-aged heroine who is attractive and eager to begin the life she's never had. With humor to ease the tension of dealing with family members in various stages of distress, Caroline is a character with whom we can all relate. We will all someday be the older heroine in our own lives, and I will watch for future romances like this well-written one from Kathy Thurlow." 4 Stars! --Romance Reviews@Sime- Gen

Thurlow shows exceptional promise as an author of romance erotica. She strikes a universal chord in her audience, taking women into the world of fantasy without sacrificing credibility along the way. --4 Stars, Julia Ann Charpentier for Affaire de Coeur

Readers and booksellers wishing to e-mail Kathy Thurlow, contact her here! To order Mrs. Love, go to Hardshell.com on the Web.


Bright Hope historical romance book cover jpg

animated heartBEVERLY SHIPPEY


BRIGHT HOPE
Romance Novels e-publishing
#RN01-0101-7390-01BH

Paulette Corday, fresh from a Charleston Convent School, comes home to Bright Hope Plantation to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming the wife of handsome young planter Jeremy Windson. Even when she manages to capture his interest, she is not sure of his love. And their marriage is not quite what she expected. Several attempts have been made on Jeremy's life, the plantation has not been on a solid financial basis, and Linda Cunningham, Jeremy's former lover, and her paramour, Carl Dabney, plot revenge against young Paulette.

Arson, kidnapping, and murder along with a malaria epidemic converge on the newlyweds, who fight for their right to happiness. During these trials, Paulette realizes a new strength and maturity and discovers a passion she never knew she possessed. But will it be enough to transform their marriage into the ideal she wants?

Don't miss Beverly Shippey's first romance set in the old South. Also now out, her second and third books, POSSESSED BY LOVE, a paranormal contemporary romance, and THE WIDOW AND THE WASTREL, a Regency romance, at Romance Novels e-publishing.





This page is a not-for-profit effort managed by romance author Janet Lynnford.



This page was founded by--

The Mommy School cover JPG

 

 

Valerie Taylor --Praise for this author's first novel, The Mommy School (Harlequin American Romance #676, 4/97, ISBN# 0-373-16676-1, 4/97).

"Valerie Taylor has the rare and enviable ability to make you laugh out loud while she touches your heart."--Jennifer Crusie, RITA Award-Winning Author.
"A light-hearted gender-bender romp that is the ideal reading experience...A winner by a writer whose star is on the rise."--Harriet Klausner, for RomEx.
The Mommy School won a 1998 HOLT Medallion award from the Virginia Romance Writers Chapter of Romance Writers of America.

Visit Valerie Taylor's website to read an excerpt from The Mommy School. And watch for her new book, The World's Best Daddy, released by Harlequin Romance in March 2000.



To visit the web pages of the many wonderful authors previously featured on the Romance Sneak Previews Web Page,
[Click here.]



copyright 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 Janet Lynnford If you have any trouble signing the guestbook or have any other difficulties with this page, please e-mail web mistress [email protected] with your guestbook entry and you will be entered into this month's drawing for a free romance novel.


This page hosted by GeoCitiesGet your own Free Home Page



cover preload

1