Roman Holiday by Phyllis A. Humphrey

Roman Holiday
Phyllis A. Humphrey
White Rose Publishing
Inspirational White Rose
Rating: Sweet
Page Count: 212
ISBN: 1-60154-644-0
Release Date: 7-10-2009
Digital Price: 6.00
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Impetuous and sometimes klutzy Darcy Gibson, a Los Angeles magazine writer, is given the assignment to research a tour of Italy for an article. Her boss calls this her last chance to save her job. But she meets Todd Matthews, an artist/computer consultant, and, despite her plans to stick strictly to business, romance follows. Todd feels the same about Darcy but has a skeleton in his closet. Just when the couple feel they're able to solve their problems, Todd is accused of molesting a young girl on the tour, and he leaves town. Can Darcy, who has forgiveness problems of her own, not only find Todd but pull a rabbit out of a hat to produce a happy-ever-after?
REVIEW
Ms. Humphrey has a skill with humor and timing that is exceptional. It draws you in and charms you handily without ever overwhelming the story nor its characters. Her sense of setting puts you right into the heart of Italy without seeming over-done. This after all, is the story of a woman chronicling her travels, so the descriptives are a story enhancement and indeed become an added and welcome character of Roman Holiday.
Her characters are appealing, and realistically drawn, both finding their way through human foibles and dreams. I found myself longing for a bit more chemistry, a slightly more sensual sizzle between the hero and heroine that would augment their growing feelings, but with subtle insights and well-peppered revelation, Ms. Humphrey manages to draw the reader into their relationship nonetheless.
The wrap up of several intense and detailed family issues felt rushed in the last few chapters of the book yet ultimately pave the way to a complete and satisfying ending for a hero and heroine you can't help but root for.

Rating: 4
Level: Sweet
Reviewer: Minnie

Thistle Dew by Alee Drake

Thistle Dew
ALee Drake
The Wild Rose Press
Fantasy Faery Rosebud
Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 184
ISBN: 1-60154-643- 2
Release Date: 6-26-2009
Price: 4.50
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Sage Winters is the owner of an Adirondack bed and breakfast aptly named Thistle Dew by her late husband, Eric. She is a strong woman, not only successful in her business but as a mother. Although she tries to be loyal to her love for Eric, frequent guest and author Hawke is so irresistible that he catches her eye and eventually her heart. Sage is an overprotective mother who reluctantly learns to rely on others at a time of crisis.

Hawke, a shy, reclusive best selling author, steps up to the plate as hero when Sage's daughter, Pia is missing and any clues to her whereabouts have been buried during a blizzard. He learns to trust his intuitive voice and finds Pia via dreams and eerie signs.

And it is Eric, in spirit, who is not always angelic, but intercedes and intervenes to keep his ‘girls’ safe. He not only shows Hawke where to find Pia but encourages Sage to open her heart and love again.

Ms. Drake launches us into the warm and enticing world of the Thistle Dew Inn with an expert's touch. Her writing features wonderful descriptives that fully engages us in the atmosphere of the story and its characters. Hawke is an impressive hero – kind hearted and protective, a book nerd with a touch of Harley Davidson sex appeal – what's not to love?! Sage, meanwhile, is a tender and completely appealing heroine. She's a devoted mother, a consummate hostess, and Hawke's perfect allure.

In fact if I have one quibble with this book it's that the development of Sage and Hawke's relationship felt a bit uneven to me. I found myself longing for more direct interaction and development between them through the first half of the book. Much seems to happen internally and off stage rather than in direct, one-on-one interaction. These are two deserving characters. I wanted to see more of their growth and interaction so I'd be even more invested in the outcome.
The second half of the book is a total thrill ride – Sage and her daughter Pia (who have the most wonderful, heart-stealing rapport) face an enormous challenge, and Hawke's caring heart and devotion helps them pave the way through the difficulties presented and leaves the reader a happy and much longed for resolution.

Kudos, Ms. Drake – when can I visit the Thistle Dew Inn??
Rating: 4 Smacks

Heat Level: Sweet/Sensual

Other: N/AReviewer: Minnie