Whispers of the Runes, the third book in Christina’s “Runes” series, weaves yet another spellbinding timeslip story of a modern-day heroine transporteWhispers of the Runes, the third book in Christina’s “Runes” series, weaves yet another spellbinding timeslip story of a modern-day heroine transported by an ancient artifact back to a far more primitive and dangerous world—where she has no choice but to trust a handsome, hunky Viking warrior in order to have any chance of surviving. Christina combines meticulous research with lovely character development as she skillfully creates an elemental bond of trust and then love between two seemingly very different people. I love how she does this by connecting their common humanity—her hero is an honorable, caring and loyal man, and her heroine is brave, resilient and is smart enough to recognize all of the hero’s sterling qualities. They also bond over a common love of silversmithing, and the reader learns some fascinating history about the craft, as well as other wonderful historical details about the Viking time in Britain. (No spoilers—but there are some really delightful “cross-culture” moments in the book!) ...more
Entrancing the Earl, the fifth book in Pat’s “School of Magic” series has all the core elements that make me fall in love with each of the stories: A Entrancing the Earl, the fifth book in Pat’s “School of Magic” series has all the core elements that make me fall in love with each of the stories: A brave and resourceful—not to speak of quirky—a heroine who is determined to protect other people from harm, no matter the danger to herself . . . an irascible hero, who grumbles that he only wishes to indulge in his desires, and yet can’t help being a thoroughly honorable man. The Earl of Ives and Mystan is broke and needs a miracle to avoid evicting a houseful of eccentric female relatives from his crumbling castle. Could the ghost who whispers about buried treasure on the estate be his savior? Or does the mysterious young beekeeper offer an even easier route to money if he takes advantage of her secret . . . Scintillating dialogue, wonderful humor and unexpected plot twists—all hallmarks of Pat’s books—make for a delightful read. Curl up with a cup of tea—well laced with honey!—and enjoy!...more
I just loved this book—it’s a marvelous combination of a captivating love story and enthralling history. . . and had me staying up way too late as it I just loved this book—it’s a marvelous combination of a captivating love story and enthralling history. . . and had me staying up way too late as it that swept me along in a magical journey.
Linnea Berger, a specialist in ancient Norse languages, is taking refuge from the emotional trauma of a recent car accident by working at a summer archeological dig. Because she’s spooked by the idea of digging up bones, she’s sent to a deserted field with a metal detector, and discovers a magnificent silver brooch . . only prick her finger and pass out. When she awakes, she surrounded by a band of men in Viking dress—led by the hunky Hrafn, who promptly informs her that she is now his captive. Thinking they are Viking reenactors, she plays along for a bit . . . until it becomes shockingly clear that she’s somehow been transported to the ninth century.
Initial panic gives way to logic. The brooch must have brought her here, so perhaps it can take her back. The only problem is it belongs to Hrafn’s horrible half brother, and the only way to have a chance of getting her hands on it is to go along with their plan to take her with them on a long and perilous trading journey to the city we know as Constantinople—where Hrafn intends to sell her as a thrall.
The journey is absolutely riveting. Christina’s meticulous descriptions—the river journey through Russia, the trading towns, the details of everyday life and the dangers the party faces—really make history come alive. But even more compelling is how she develops a friendship between Linnea and Hrafn based on mutual respect for each other’s courage and moral principles, sentiments that soon develop into something way more complicated. And as they reach Constantinople, there are some very difficult decisions to face . . . Fix a cup of hot chocolate, snuggle into a comfy chair and escape into a thrilling and heartwarming adventure!...more
I just loved this book—it’s a marvelous combination of a captivating love story and enthralling history. . . and had me staying up way too late as it I just loved this book—it’s a marvelous combination of a captivating love story and enthralling history. . . and had me staying up way too late as it swept me along in a magical journey.
Linnea Berger, a specialist in ancient Norse languages, is taking refuge from the emotional trauma of a recent car accident by working at a summer archeological dig. Because she’s spooked by the idea of digging up bones, she’s sent to a deserted field with a metal detector, and discovers a magnificent silver brooch . . only prick her finger and pass out. When she awakes, she surrounded by a band of men in Viking dress—led by the hunky Hrafn, who promptly informs her that she is now his captive. Thinking they are Viking reenactors, she plays along for a bit . . . until it becomes shockingly clear that she’s somehow been transported to the ninth century.
Initial panic gives way to logic. The brooch must have brought her here, so perhaps it can take her back. The only problem is it belongs to Hrafn’s horrible half brother, and the only way to have a chance of getting her hands on it is to go along with their plan to take her with them on a long and perilous trading journey to the city we know as Constantinople—where Hrafn intends to sell her as a thrall.
The journey is absolutely riveting. Christina’s meticulous descriptions—the river journey through Russia, the trading towns, the details of everyday life and the dangers the party faces—really makes history come alive. But even more compelling is how she develops a friendship between Linnea and Hrafn based on mutual respect for each other’s courage and moral principles, sentiments that soon develop into something way more complicated. And as they reach Constantinople, there are some very difficult decisions to face . . . Fix a cup of hot chocolate, snuggle into a comfy chair and escape into a thrilling and heartwarming adventure! ...more
I love Pat’s “Magic” books, which always take us on enchanting journeys, whether they’re set in Regency, Victorian or modern times. And this one is a I love Pat’s “Magic” books, which always take us on enchanting journeys, whether they’re set in Regency, Victorian or modern times. And this one is a wonderful addition to her “Magical Malcolms” family tree. As usual, it has a cast of delightfully eccentric characters, and a heroine and hero who are stubbornly passionate about their own personal dreams—but even more passionate about protecting those who are vulnerable and seeing that justice triumphs over evil.
Lady Phoebe has a gift of communicating with animals, and dreams of going to university to study to be a veterinarian. Alas, poverty compels her to do the bidding of her aunts—who run the School of Malcolms—and serve as governess to the children who inventor Andrew Blair is sheltering for his cousin, whose Malcolm wife was murdered . . .
Little does Blair know that his household is about to be turned upside down . . . children who speak with ghosts and levitate objects that aren’t meant to float . . . a menagerie of animals who help guard the house from the villains seeking to kidnap the children for their nefarious plan. (I’m not sure I’ve ever read a book where a pine marten is one of the heroes!) And of course, a feisty heroine who somehow moves all the hidden levers to open his heart.
The story sparkles with wit and humor, and wonderfully explosive chemistry between Phoebe and Drew. Brew a pot of tea, bake some scones or oatmeal-raisin cookies and let the heartwarming story cast its spell over you! ...more
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