Book picks similar to
Within This Present by Margaret Ayer Barnes


fiction
the-world-wars
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30s-40s

Copper Creek Mail Order Brides: Boxed Set


Charlotte Dearing - 2020
    Instead, he finds a jilted mail order bride, two ragged orphans and a basket of striped kittens.The thief abandoned his fiancée, a lovely blue-eyed beauty who steals Gideon’s breath at first glance. Ruth’s sassy and plenty exasperating. She’s taken in a newborn orphan girl and cares for the baby with grit and devotion. Gideon yearns to shelter both Ruth and the sweet baby. He can’t make sense of the protective instincts, turning his tidy thoughts all topsy turvy. Before long, he’s got more trouble than he can shake a stick at.Ruth claims to know nothing about the stolen money. But is she innocent or is she the real thief?Mail Order RebeccaAdam Barstow just wants to be left alone to mend his ways. The good Lord has other plans…As Adam works to turn over a new leaf, two orphans appear on his doorstep. They escaped a cruel orphanage. Adam can hardly turn them away and vows to keep them for a short spell, just until he finds them a decent home.But a few short weeks later a mail-order bride arrives. Rebecca is kind and gentle and believes Adam sent for her to help care for the children. He didn’t. Adam would dearly like to know who wrote Rebecca. Until he learns the truth, he’ll shelter his newfound, precious family.Mail Order HollyA Christmas Bride for the Texas Cowboy.Holly Ross travels to Texas a few weeks before Christmas as a mail order bride. She’s tasked with returning a stack of letters to a certain cowboy. His mail order bride has jilted him.Holly peeks at the letters as she journeys to Texas. She knows she shouldn’t snoop but can’t resist learning more about the cowboy, Jacob Barstow.When she arrives, her husband to-be isn’t waiting. Instead, she comes face to face with Jacob Barstow, the charming and protective cowboy whose letters she secretly read. Jacob will help Holly, but only if she accepts a marriage of convenience by Christmas Eve.

Late to the Wedding


Laura Briggs
    True, it was written four months ago, but could his heart have changed so drastically in so little time? Desperate to know, she packs a bag and plans to bridge the five states between them. But a series of cosmic misadventures leaves her no other choice for her cross country journey than a gypsy cab driver who’s willing to take her the distance for a hefty fee. Sardonic, arrogant Brian Stoker is the last person likely to sympathize with a quest for last chance love. But he may be her only hope as a chain of obstacles and adventures threaten to become a detour from her destiny. Will Evelyn be late to the wedding–or will she have a romantic rendezvous in time for a happy ending?Excerpt from Late to the Wedding:Evelyn closed her eyes as despair washed over her. Turning away from the taxi lane, she walked forlornly towards the automatic doors. Her glance fell on a vehicle parked nearby, a 1970s notchback Sedan she had noticed circling the lot as she spoke to the constantly moving line of cabs. Most likely a hack, or gypsy cab driver as some referred to them. Guys willing to take legal risks for a little extra cash on a busy weekend. The driver lowered his newspaper to glance up at her passing figure, revealing a faded button down shirt with an open collar. Dark, tousled hair and a jaw that sported days old stubble; coal black eyes that flicked in her direction with a hint of challenge. As if daring her to approach, knowing all the while she was too timid and guarded to risk it. Perhaps that’s what made her shoulder her carry-on more firmly and march directly to his driver’s side window.“Excuse me…” she faltered a little, her gaze taking in the car’s shabby interior, with its dusty dashboard and peeling leather upholstery. “By any chance…that is, are you…” “Operating an illegal cab service?” supplied the sardonic voice, the dark eyes studying her beneath raised brows. “Sure.” He tossed the paper into the passenger seat and offered a smile that struck her as arrogant for someone who clearly did most of their grooming with the aid of a rear view mirror. “I–I need a ride,” she stammered, realizing a second later how obvious that must be. “That is, can you take me to Binghamton?” she asked, selecting a city that was relatively near the Pennsylvania state line and roughly two hours into her journey. If he took her there and not a mile further, it would be at least be a start.He seemed to hesitate, no doubt weighing the loss of convention traffic. His gaze taking in her trim figure, expensive attire, and scant luggage with a scrutiny that made her blush. “I usually settle my fee before driving in circumstances like this,” he said, after a moment. “But I guess I can make an exception for you. Although this seems a little far for a cab ride if you ask me.”Evelyn shrugged, pretending to miss the insult behind the provision. “Well, I’m sort of playing this trip by ear, so I can’t really guarantee…” She let her voice trail off, turning her head nonchalantly in the direction of the moving cab line. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she prayed that this maneuver would call his bluff. Show him she wasn’t the usual sucker tourist in need of a cheap ride.“We’ll work something out,” he said, taking the bait.

Hunt-U.S. Marshal Vol 25: Wall Of Honor


W.L. Cox - 2016
    Clayton develops a romantic relationship with Sylvia Morales when suddenly everything changes. An angry man comes to Denver and claims he is her husband when he sees her in town after he is arrested. A cattle drive arrives in Denver with plans to sell their cattle at the stockyard to the highest bidder. However, Hunt and his men suspect the cattle are stolen. This causes a huge problem for Hunt and the men. The cattle have been sold, the men have been paid, and they seem to have scattered in different directions.

The Manifestation of Caleb Lewis


Timothy D. Tims - 2015
    Caleb himself falls into a dark place. Brilliant, athletic, and charismatic, he begins to use his talents to manipulate those around him. Turning his back on everyone, Caleb descends into a world of drugs, sex, and violence. Rising to be the greatest college quarterback in the nation and playing for the National Championship, Caleb has power, wealth, and women but he continues to inflict pain on everyone around him until in the depths of despair he finds hope. THE MANIFESTATION OF CALEB LEWIS is a magical story of triumph, hope, love and perseverance

The Hawaiian Quilt, SAMPLER


Wanda E. Brunstetter - 2016
    But when Mandy and one of her friends miss the cruise ship after a port of call on Kauai, how will they adjust and get back home? Find out in this brand new romance from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, writing with her daughter-in-law Jean Brunstetter.

White Fire (Pendergast): By Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child -- Review


Expert Book Reviews - 2013
    While it will greatly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of the book, it is not intended to stand in its place.* In "White Fire," Special Agent Aloysius Pendergast makes his 13th appearance as the modern Sherlock Holmes investigator. Whether familiar with the novels of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child or not, readers will enjoy the twists throughout this bestselling mystery thriller "White Fire." Fans may remember Corrie Swanson from "Still Life with Crows," but now she is a college student trying to enter law enforcement. While aiming to achieve an academic prize for her thesis, Swanson uses manipulation and other schemes to uncover the mystery behind a case from the 1870s. The clues behind a man-eating grizzly bear that attacked and killed 11 miners are provided by Arthur Conan Doyle. Swanson digs through old evidence and comes up with new discoveries that suggest human culprits. Supported by Pendergast, the protagonist encounters many obstacles, including imprisonment and the threat on her own life. Before you engage in this mystery thriller, read what the experts think of the latest bestseller from Preston and Child "White Fire." Compare the pros and cons of the co-authors' writing styles while seeing quotes from well-known critics and publications. This review offers an insider's view of the novel to prove why "White Fire" is worth your time.

The Nature of the Beast: (A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel) by Louise Penny | Summary & Analysis


Book*Sense - 2015
    A murder mystery set against the discovery of one of the most destructive firearms ever created, Penny packs in all the usual suspense of a typical homicide investigation and adds to that the chilling presence of pure evil. Nine-year-old Laurent Lapage is known for his wild imagination and tall tales. When he shares news of his latest discovery no one pays him any attention. The following day when Laurent is found dead, they wish they had. Retired Chief Homicide Inspector, Armand Gamache, is haunted by Laurent’s crime scene, sensing the boy’s death was no accident. When a search through the woods reveals the camouflaged location of an enormous missile launcher with the etching of a hideous apocalyptic creature, Armand is certain the boy was killed to silence him. Along with his successor, Chief Inspector Isabelle Lacoste, and his son-in-law, Armand sets out to find young Laurent’s murderer. This companion includes the following: • Book Review • Story Setting Analysis • Story elements you may have missed as we decipher the novel • Clear, concise description and analysis of personalities • Summary of the text, with some analytical comments interspersed • Thought Provoking /or Discussion Questions for both Readers & Book Clubs • Discussion & Analysis of Themes, Symbols… • And Much More! This Analysis fills the gap, making you understand more while enhancing your reading experience.

The Rose Stone


Teresa Crane - 1985
    A diamond, gained through betrayal and blood, upon which the Rosenberg family's fortunes were founded and whose price is yet to be paid. Kiev, 1875: Josef Rosenberg narrowly escapes death from a Cossack raid, rescuing Tanya, the youngest daughter of his old friend Boris Anatov. Fleeing to a new life in England, his skill as a diamond cutter – and the notoriety of being the man who cut the famed Rose Stone – are the foundation of success and security. But even as his reputation for fine jewellery flourishes, and Josef’s new family grows large and wealthy, the thought of the Rose Stone – and of what had been done to acquire it – will cast a dark shadow of guilt and revenge, eclipsing generations to come. The Rose Stone is a dazzling saga of love, family and suspense by the best selling author, perfect for fans of Lisa Kleypas and Santa Montefiore.

McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series - Box Set 4


April Wilson - 2021
    She doesn't remember any of it, but she has the bruises and lacerations all over her body as painful reminders of something she just wants to put behind her. The problem is, she can’t move on. Everything she’d ever hoped for was torn away from her that night. The man she’s been crushing on has vowed to restore her sense of safety and security. He’ll stop at nothing to catch the assailant who hurt her. The tragic irony is, now he wants her in his life. But it’s too late now.Mack Donovan has always kept a careful distance from Erin. She’s sweet, beautiful, and innocent - way too young and too good for him. After a career in the military and a stint as a mercenary, he’s done things he's not proud of. He thinks his hands are too dirty to touch her. When he rejects her invitation to attend a New Year’s Eve party, the unthinkable happens. A sexual predator drugs Erin and steals not just her innocence, but her sense of self. Mack will stop at nothing to find him and end him. In the meanwhile, he’s not giving up on Erin. He will show her that not all men are monsters.With This RingAnnie is marrying her best friend today, the love of her life. She's waited years for this day, and she's not going to let anything get in the way. So what if she's nine months pregnant with twins and starting to feel contractions? She only has to make it until the ceremony is done. What could possibly go wrong? As a follow-up novella to Annie and Jake's second chance romance (Redeemed), WITH THIS RING is a heart-warming look at love, romance, family, and childbirth.Collateral DamageWhen Sophie McIntyre's blind date goes horribly wrong, she finds herself running for her life. Dominic Zaretti is a man who gets things done—one who doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty in the process. His job is to disappear with Sophie and keep her alive until the threat is neutralized. But when Dominic falls for the curvy, statuesque beauty, he finds himself making the ultimate sacrifice to keep her safe.

PINKI AND HAIRY UNCLE


Pran Kumar Sharma - 2016
    This applies appropriately to PINKI, the five year old little girl, who is often seen carrying her pet Kut-Kut, the squirrel. This strip was created by cartoonist Pran in 1978. The series became a tremendous hit in short period. Soon the hilarious encounters of PINKI started appearing in Punjab Kesari, JagBani, Hind Samachar, Sandhaya Times, Mayura, Lot Pot and several other newspapers. M/s Diamond Comics Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi, have compiled it into book forms in ten languages. Many manufactures have used this character on their children goods to promote the sales. The whole neighbourhood of Pinki is scared of menace of her doings. She wants to help uncle Jhapatji busy painting the furniture. "If you want to help me, go away!" He screms. Other characters in the series are, Champu, Bhiku, Didi, Principal Tasmut, PINKI'S parent and grand parents.

This Green and Pleasant Land


John Andrews - 2014
    His life and his business collapse in a haze of sleepless, nightmare ridden nights and excessive drinking.As he attempts to rebuild his life, a spiteful character from his past comes back to haunt him and contributes to his downfall.With his home repossessed he moves to a flat on a council estate where through a series of random unrelated incidents Alex finds himself in violent conflict with the gang who control the area and most of the drug dealing in West Yorkshire.The story centres on the fight of good against evil and explains how each of the individual characters involved developed into the people they've become and how they interact with each other.

Ellis Angels: The Nurses of Ellis Island Hospital


Carole Lee Limata - 2013
    Ellis Island Hospital has been closed since 1954. When Superstorm Sandy bombards New York Harbor in 2012, Ellis Island is left battered and flooded. During an extensive clean-up, a file cabinet is discovered in the long-abandoned, vacant hospital building. It is found to contain the files of a former Senior Nursing Superintendent. Filled with documentation of nursing procedures, notes, schedules, and pages from her 1924 journal, the tender tale of Ellis Angels was inspired from these rescued files. Newly-arrived immigrants are facing enormous physical and emotional challenges. The Stanescu twins are separated from their parents, and admitted for favus scalp infections. Fabiana Morales, a beautiful young woman, comes to America to be married, but is rejected by her future husband because of her unsightly goiter. Mrs. Ryan, pregnant with her fifth child, is hospitalized for pregnancy complications. Mrs. Brunne and her newborn are facing deportation because of the newly established Quota Law, and a teenager delivers her premature infant on the floor of the Women’s Detention Dormitory.During her orientation, Miss Angie, a nurse recruit, learns the routines of the Hospital. She meets handsome Dr. Goodwin who is, unknowingly, searching for the nurse of his dreams. Miss Adeline, an experienced and spirited nurse, takes Angie under her wing. The Nursing Superintendent, Sister Gwendolyn, is keeping a watchful eye on her staff of Ellis Island Nurses. Together, through their creativity and united efforts, the nurses and doctors of Ellis Island Hospital discover ways to help their patients follow their dreams. In the process, they achieve their own American Dream, as well.

The Allure Of A Thug


Natisha Raynor - 2019
    She’s young and the world is still turning, so eventually, she has to move on. If Satan had a son, it would be Quadim. Even though he saved her in a sense, he was far from a knight in shining armor. Being dependent on him and having love for his brother that she helped to care for, made her stay in a dead end situation for far too long. When she wants to leave, Quadim doesn’t get the memo, and he vows that if he can’t have her nobody will. 
 Kyreem aka Panama is home from a prison bid and trying to do the right thing, but he just can’t get with being broke. Reconnecting with two old friends puts him in the right situations to come up and rekindle love, but it also places him directly in the middle of some beef.

The Mountain


John McGauley - 2018
    At one time he was wealthy and successful but he went down the rabbit hole because of a scandalous backstory that follows him. Now he has virtually nothing, working odd jobs, mostly cleaning out barns and old homes. What he finds cleaning out one barn leads to a series of events he could never have predicted. Another clean-out job at an old Victorian home adds to the mystery and suspense. Full of surprises, plot twists, well-drawn characters and superb dialogue. A great two or three-night read, one to curl up to on a quiet evening. Taut and tight.

The Boyfriend Type


Shae Sanders - 2020
    She's not looking for love but she wouldn't mind having a little fun.Handsome restaurateur Larenzo Black is trying to put his womanizing ways behind him and focus on business. For him, women are trouble.They're both running from their past and when they crash into each other, sparks fly. But Larenzo's best friend in the world happens to be Yasmeen's older brother, and every man knows that's a line you never cross.Theoretically...