When I first discovered Luanne Rice, I read as many of her books as I could find, and I enjoyed them for the most part. Now, she’s one of the many authors I read out of habit. Summer of Roses could have been a suspenseful, romantic read. Instead, it was just long and boring. When I was writing about books in my notebook, I made a big list of positive characteristics of Rice’s writing. I think I need to re-write that list.

Joy is recently divorced, and now must deal with the news that her beloved sister is marrying Joy’s ex-husband. Daniel’s ex-wife has recently died, and now he must build a relationship with his young son. Joy and Daniel are thrown together by a plane crash, and soon begin to heal.

I know, that synopsis was quite nauseating. If that’s all there was to the story, I wouldn’t recommend the book. But Hannah adds a few unexpected twists that help to redeem a seemingly predictable plot.

When I last wrote of the Chronicles of the Kings series, I called it a trilogy. I was mistaken. It’s not a trilogy, although it should have been. This is the fourth book in the series, and as far as I’m concerned, it’s completely unnecessary. The first three books were very good. This book is mediocre at best. I don’t think I will be reading the rest of the books in this series.

A very cute story about May Ameila, the only girl ever to be born in her Finnish settlement in Washington. May Ameila tries her best to keep up with her 7 brothers, but her efforts are constantly being thwarted by those who think she should behave as a “proper young lady.” When May Amelia’s deepest desire is finally granted, she must grow up more quickly than anyone imagined.

Abbie Cooper’s body is found frozen in a remote mountain creek. She was a beloved daughter and sister, and one of the FBI’s most wanted fugitives. The mystery behind Abbie’s death is revealed throughout the book. While you will find yourself sympathizing with Abbie, you will feel anger towards Abbie’s parents, who seem to be doing everything in their power to mess up their family. The overall story was good, but the lack of respect for marriage and for the consequences of unfaithfulness is disturbing.