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Reviewed by Deborah Wiley,
CK2S KWIPS AND KRITIQUES, July 2006
‘The Healer’ by Leanne Burroughs is a vivid historical tale revolving around an
auld healer, Agnes, who is reluctantly dragged to the Drummond castle to tend to
the laird's English captive, Tory, who has been poisoned. In the process, an
attraction develops between Agnes and Warrick, the laird's warrior. This
riveting story is a fascinating portrait that demonstrates that love can
flourish at any age in any time.
~~~
Reviewed by Detra Fitch, HUNTRESS REVIEWS, June 2006
http://www.huntressreviews.com/
Huntress Book Reviews
The Healer by Leanne Burroughs is a historical romance set in the Highlands. The
Laird of Clan Drummond cares deeply for his supposed captive, Tory, though he
thinks no one knows. When Tory gets poisoned, the chieftain has Warwick, his
most trusted warrior, fetch the healer named Agnes. Agnes may be up in age, but
she knows almost instantly how her laird feels about Tory. But that is not her
concern. Agnes only fears her own reactions to Warwick.
~~~
Reviewed by Marilyn Rondeau, Reviewers International Organization, July 2006
The Healer - Leanne Burroughs - Old Agnes was aggravated as the big lummox known
as Warwick hauled her off to the castle Drummond. She remained by herself all
these years never wanting to feel again, yet this auld warrior was intent on
making her feel things she swore she'd never feel again. Would a wish on the
`blue moon' melt the bitterness of Agnes' heart allow old Warwick to finally
find the other half of his heart. - Wonderful - this one made the tears run down
my face with joy.
~~~
Reviewed by Kenda Montgomery, June 2006
"The Healer" by Leanne Burroughs--Author Burroughs takes fans back with her
vivid portrayal of the Scottish Highlands as told in her riveting books
"Highland Wishes" and "Her Highland Rogue". Agnes, the frank and capable healer
is in need of no one, especially a man. But when Warwick, the laird's second in
command comes into danger, she will look to the blue moon to guide him to
safety. Can an auld woman learn to open a heart she's long guarded? And
furthermore, can an old warrior learn how to handle this confounding and
bewitching woman?--Burroughs takes us right back to the time of William Wallace
and Robert the Bruce and shows us that love can indeed flourish amongst the
hills and valleys of that long ago era. An endearing and heart-grabbing story!
~~~
Reviewed by Ann Marie Bradley, author of Voice of a Soldier
The Healer by Leanne Burroughs is a Highland historical romance rich with
Scottish history and beguiling characters. With the help of a healer named Agnes
and a wishing moon, lovers find their way back to each other. This short story
is a special treat as we get to read more about the characters from Ms.
Burroughs books, Highland Wishes & Her Highland Rogue.
~~~
Reviewed by Patty Howell, author of ‘No Laughing Matter’ in No Law
Against Love, June 2006
How many looks of disdain could one man endure? And not even married to her! But
the war-worn, battle-torn warrior Warwick looked beyond the outward grime and
espied something on the interior of Agnes that melted his heart. Not to mention
spurred his aging, but far from dead, libido. Tagged by much of the populace
decades ago as the
local witch, and a person to be avoided, Agnes is much the hermit and doesn't
appreciate being dragged bodily to the castle. Especially, since she'd been
summoned to perform her lifesaving healing arts on the Laird's beautiful
prisoner. "Drummond's never take prisoners"—why bother healing her? Her
attitude, however, belied the tender nursing Warwick witnessed her administer to
the Lady Tory.
Award-winning author Leanne Burroughs reminds us in her superbly-weaved
narrative and sometimes sidesplitting dialogue we ought not to judge a book by
its cover. No matter how crusty things may appear, there's usually an underlying
reason for what is projected on a person's exterior. In pictorial prose, Mrs.
Burroughs writes of a tumultuous historical era in vivid detail and accuracy.
This reader looks forward to many more wonderful stories from this talented
lady. This and other romantic tales are available in Blue Moon Magic and its
companion anthology Blue Moon Enchantment, both published by Highland Press.
Reading one is a stepping stone to reading the other.
~~~
Reviewed by Meagan Hatfield – Author of A Magical Encounter, June 2006
Award-winning author and shining star in the historical romance genre, Ms.
Burroughs takes us back to the Scottish Highlands for a delightful and heart
warming tale that proves true love can be found at any age.
On orders from Laird Drummond, clansman Warwick drags local healer, Agnes,
kicking and spitting from her isolated home in the woods to the castle. As she
grudgingly, but skillfully tends to the Laird's lady, Warwick can't help but be
intrigued by her fiery spirit and tender display. Though he remembers her kindly
from their youth, the mature woman she's become now sets his blood afire and
soothes his war-weary soul. But burned in the past and set in her ways, Agnes
will not be an easy one to coax back into love’s arms. Will Warwick's efforts
come to nothing? Or will his love and determination be just the remedy to
finally heal the healer?
Ms. Burroughs is a brilliant talent and truly gifted story-teller! Her blend of
descriptive style and vivid historical details create an enthralling and
emotional story all lovers of romance will revel in. Rarely can an author
seamlessly create such relatable and endearing characters in such a short amount
of time, so effectively. Warwick and Agnes really reach out to the reader and
pull the heartstrings. You will laugh, worry and cheer on these two souls as
they fumble through their burgeoning emotions and finally come together in a
satisfying conclusion. You can read this wonderful tale, and 14 others in the
Blue Moon Magic anthology, published by Highland Press.
~~~
Reviewed by Award winning author, Diane Davis White, June 2006
Burroughs, a Scottish weaver of masterful Highland tales, continues her complex
and compassionate story of Scotland’s struggle against England and its brutal
retaliation toward the brave men and women who risked all to protect their homes
and clans. Fans of Ms. Burroughs previous books will fall deeper in love with
Agnes and Warwick, tucking their memories into hearts already overflowing with
emotion for the Drummonds and other characters of Scotland’s beautiful Highlands
and its proud history. You will enjoy many other wonderful romantic stories in
Blue Moon Magic and its companion anthology, Blue Moon Enchantment, both
published by Highland Press.
~~~
Reviewed by Aysel Arwen, Author of A Pirate, A Secret and Rose, June 2006
Kissed by Highland Wishes and Her Highland Rogue, Leanne Burroughs weaves two of
her classic tales together to create another epic love story, The Healer. Agnes
and Warwick are sassy and well past their first bloom, but love has a way of
inspiring beauty even amongst the wrinkles, worries and wars of men and women.
Shedding past hurts and a lifetime of want, two souls are thrown together for
the good of others and what they find is nothing less than an amazing and
lasting passion for each other.
Burroughs, a Scottish weaver of masterful Highland tales, continues her complex
and compassionate story of Scotland’s
~~~
Reviewed by Jacquie Rogers, author of the upcoming Faery Special Romances,
June 2006
Bewitching!
We fell in love with Agnes and Warwick in HIGHLAND WISHES, and finally we get to
read their story. Agnes, the healer, lives in a hut in the woods. Warwick is a
warrior for Grant Drummond. Can two lonely people, kept alone by circumstances
not of their making, fill each other’s hearts with happiness?
Ms. Burroughs has outdone herself with this story of an older couple’s journey
to true love. Tender, touching, and passionate, The Healer will captivate you
until the very last word—and then you’ll want more! Besides these wonderful
stories in Blue Moon Magic, Ms. Burroughs has written another fine tale, “The
Anti-Kissing Club,” in Blue Moon Enchantment (Highland Press).
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Title - Blue Moon Magic
Author: Various
A short synopsis of each story (and there are
fifteen) follows:
Bell of the Blue Moon Ball by Dawn Thompson is a regency. Oberon, the king of faeries, and the notorious Puck plan to have Lady Arabella and the Earl of Everton fall in love by drinking from a bespelled bowl of claret during a ball set on the night of a blue moon. Unfortunately, everyone EXCEPT the two drink the claret.
Where Sea Meets Skye by Erin Hatton is set in the present date. Hurt by her boyfriend's betrayal, Celine left Canada to visit Scotland. The unemployed Marine Biologist goes to the Isle of Skye to view the seals. She never expects to meet the selkies.
Angels in the Moonlight by Diane Davis White is set in the present date. Sadie, the Shady Angel, and her mentor, Pricilla, are sent to California. Their mission is to make Nathan, a musician, and Olivia, a singer, fall in love during the full moon.
Under the Pale Moonlight by Katherine Smith is a historical romance. Arthur Cameron had been born with a malformed foot, but never let it get in the way of what he wanted to do. Yet when it comes to Lady Alicia, he sees himself as inferior and unworthy of her love.
Ember's Desire by Meagan Hatfield is fantasy romance, set in "an Alternate Northern England" of the year 1750. Galenorn has never gotten a spell right. The witch decides to leave Wychwood. Instead of leaving, her spell releases Balder, the favored son of Odin, from his underworld prison. And Loki comes to kill them both.
Spellbound by Aysel Arwen is a paranormal romance. It could be set at any time, but seems to be set in the present. Emma loses her mother's wedding ring in some ruins. She returns under cover of the night in hopes of locating it. However, she finds more than just a circle of gold. She finds a love that comes along only once in a blue moon. First before anything else, Emma must break the enchantment upon him.
Enchantment by the Sea by M.J. Sager is a modern contemporary. Grayson had worked hard to change a ruined hotel into the best resort in the Caribbean. He knows that Clara is planning on writing an article about him in a magazine, even though she has yet to tell him so. Her boss, Benny, had already called and informed him of her arrival. However, Grayson is out to prove Benny wrong about Clara being an Ice Princess.
Suddenly You by Jaquelin Lorin is a time travel that begins in the present date. Celine has spent months restoring a portrait from around the 1870's. When she wishes she knew who the man was, Celine finds herself zapped back in time to meet him.
Blue Moon and the Warrior by Lee Roland is a paranormal. Allison camps out in the Utah desert, under a full moon, and dreams about a magical carnival. Within the carnival, she meets the perfect man. But will Allison recognize him when she meets him again in the real world?
Midsummer Magic by Kristi Ahlers historical romance set in the Highlands. During the night of a full blue moon, the Laird of Clan Fraser is returning home from a raid with his men when he comes upon a lovely lady swimming. Kidnapping her is easy. Getting her accept him is a bit difficult.
Secret of the Blue Moon by Billie Warren Chai is set in the present time. Zoey left New Mexico with no word to Jack. For twelve years Jake hated her for disappearing. Now he is a major in the Air Force. He pilots a rescue helicopter. When a storm hits, he is forced to land at Apache Indian Hospital with his injured patients. But he never expects to find that little Zoey is now the doctor in charge of the ER. And he is about to learn just how badly he has misjudged her.
Darkness and Dreams by Kimberly Ivey is a paranormal romance set in the present date. Paloma lost her husband a year ago due to a drunk driver. Now she volunteers at a local hospital. Her life changes when her psychic (or is that insane?), elderly neighbor claims that one of the comatose patients Paloma reads to is really her husband in a different body.
The Healer by Leanne Burroughs is a historical romance set in the Highlands. The Laird of Clan Drummon cares deeply for his supposed captive, Tory, though he thinks no one knows. When Tory gets poisoned, the chieftain has Warwick, his most trusted warrior, fetch the healer named Agnes. Agnes may be up in age, but she knows almost instantly how her laird feels about Tory. But that is not her concern. Agnes only fears her own reactions to Warwick.
In the Space of a Heartbeat by Keelia Greer is a futuristic vampire romance. The place is Earth. The year is 5046. Melania is an agent for the Central Galaxy Intelligence Authority. She uses her vampiric abilities in cases involving Immortals. Her current orders are to kill the terrorist that has infiltrated the Life Point Corporation and protect Dr. Kerrin, whose work is vital. However, the terrorist is Zelik, a vengeful, grudge holding vampire.
Rider in the Storm by Deborah MacGillivray is set in the present time. Ciara's fiancé, Derek, died in a car wreck exactly seven years ago tonight. She still grieves, but knows it is time to move on. After visiting Derek's grave one last time to say farewell, Ciara makes a wish upon the full blue moon. She wishes to begin living again. As Ciara drives home a storm breaks out. She is startled to see a car sitting in the exact spot Derek had died so long ago. Knowing it to be a bad idea, she stops and offers the stranded man a lift into town. Ciara is about to learn that miracles still happen.
**** This magical anthology has something for everyone. Regency, historical, time travel, contemporary, futuristic, and even delves into the magical realms of faeries, selkies, vampires, and the supernatural. All the tales have one thing in common. Each revolve around a full blue moon and the magical wishes made upon it. I loved every second that my imagination was immersed into these tales. As you read each story, you WILL find yourself believing in magic. And I bet you will be checking your calendar to see when the next blue moon will be. Outstanding! ****
HUNTRESS REVIEWS
(Reviewed by Detra Fitch)
Blue Moon Magic is an anthology of fifteen delightful short stories by fifteen authors. Topics vary from tender love stories to time travel to a variety of paranormal tales.
Every story is built around one theme - the magical aura of a blue moon. For those who aren't familiar with the term "Blue Moon" - When a single month has two full moons, the second full moon is called a Blue Moon. A blue moon occurs about every two and a half years. Legend tells us that if a person wishes on a blue moon, their wish will come true. The wish doesn't even need to be spoken aloud. The blue moon, it seems, can read minds. Does the moon really turn blue? Sometimes, the legend says, if the wish is granted.
And so it is in the stories in "Blue Moon Magic." Take, for instance, a young man who feels inadequate because he walks with a crutch. He has chosen to be alone - until a persistent miss wishes on a blue moon. In another story, the mischievous fairy, Puck, brings two strangers together at the Blue Moon Ball. Or, in a sweet time travel, a young lady finds herself back in the 1870's where she meets a man who she fell in love with while restoring a hundred and thirty year old portrait.
These are stories of love and magic, of lonely people finding their soul mates with the help of the blue moon. As with all anthologies, the stories differ, not only in content, but also in the skill of the author. Yet, every one held my attention and drew me into the aura of "Blue Moon Magic."
Florence Cardinal is a member of the Calgary Association of RWA (CaRWA). |
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BLUE
MOON MAGIC is an enchanting anthology by 15 fabulous authors who based their
stories upon the premise that a wish under a blue moon will be granted. With
stories ranging from historical to the contemporary, readers will be drawn in
immediately. So step inside the pages of this book to discover how BLUE MOON
MAGIC works....
"Belle of the Blue Moon Ball" by Dawn Thompson opens the anthology with a
delightful tale of how the King of the Faeries, Oberon, and Puck unite Lady
Arabella Gilmartin with the Earl of Everton, Nigel. Puck and Oberon's exploits
are priceless and readers will relish their antics in this historical story as
Puck manages to enchant the bowl of claret, with all the party members drinking
it except the two they are aiming for!
Erin E.M. Hatton's "Where the Sea Meets the Skye" is a haunting contemporary
tale of a woman searching for her dream. After her job prospects as a marine
biologist fail, Celine Terreau travels to Scotland where she encounters the
mysterious Ronan Morrison who has a "sea-cret" of his own! Ms. Hatton does a
spectacular job at drawing the reader into the emotions of the characters and
creating an aura of mystery.
"Angels in the Moonlight" by Diane Davis White focuses on the humorous antics of
angels Pricilla and Sadie the Shady Angel, as they unite vocalist Olivia
Langston and horn player Nathan Bridges. Pricilla and Sadie steal the show as
their light-hearted bickering will keep readers laughing.
"Under the Pale Moonlight" by Katherine Smith is the sweet story of Lady Alicia
McCray and Arthur Cameron. Arthur believes himself unfit for Alicia due to a
disability that keeps him from dancing. Ms. Smith uses great sensitivity in
addressing Arthur's disability and weaves an endearing tale that will warm
readers' hearts.
"Ember's Desire" by Meagan Hatfield is the story of hopeless witch Ember
Galenorn who casts a spell for love and rescues Balder, the son of Odin. Balder
has been entrapped in the underworld and now he and Ember must defeat Loki to
fulfill their destiny. This magical tale has all the passion and drama of an
excellent fantasy.
Aysel Arwen's "Spellbound" is the sensual tale of Emma MacPherson and Alexander
Grant. Emma is lonely and searching for her mother's wedding ring when she
encounters and ultimately rescues the bespelled Highlander from the Lady of the
Loch. Ms. Arwen has written one of the best opening lines ever to a story and
the reader will be immediately "Spellbound" by this enchanting story.
M.J. Saeger's "Enchantment By the Sea" is the deeply emotional tale of
journalist Clara Barnes and resort owner Grayson Everett. Clara is investigating
Gray's resort but will a foolish comment from her boss and Gray's college
friend, Benny, ruin their chance for love? Readers will empathize with Clara's
dilemma and feel her anger at Benny in a gut-wrenching story of second chances.
"Suddenly You" by Jaquelin Lorin is a fantastic time-travel in which art
restorer Celine Chauvin is catapulted back to the 1870s where she meets her Mr.
Gorgeous from the painting, Rhys Butler. Ms. Lorin does a fabulous job at
capturing the historical flavor of the 1870s as well as Celine's reaction to her
experience. The red dress is an excellent touch and demonstrates the author's
attention to detail.
Lee Roland's "Blue Moon and the Warrior" is the endearing tale of teacher
Allison McClure and Richard Fallon who meet in a dreamy world as Cailin and
Cahir. Allison is an admirable figure as she chases her dream of love while
sacrificing in her career.
"Midsummer Magic" by Kristi Ahlers shows the full power of BLUE MOON MAGIC as
Meredith is rescued from a marriage to the abusive Lord Langdon by Laird Kieran
Fraser. Readers will appreciate Meredith's reticence due to her kidnapping by
Kieran while cheering Kieran's efforts to woo her.
Billie Warren Chai's "Secret of the Blue Moon" is a heart-wrenching story of
second chances for Dr. Zoey Blackstone and Jake Runningbear. Prejudices
separated them when they were younger but now BLUE MOON MAGIC will bring them
back together. This fascinating tale of love overcoming prejudices is both
gut-wrenching and instructional as the reader is thrilled with Zoey for
overcoming such hardships, including her horrific treatment at the hands of
ignorance.
Kimberly Ivey's "The Darkness and the Dreams" focuses on Paloma Delatorre's
dedication to volunteering at a local hospital after the tragic death of her
fiancé, Robert. She initially suspects her neighbor, Grandma Bikini, has finally
lost her mind when she tells Paloma that Robert's soul is now in the body of
comatose patient, David Hopkins. What ensues is an inspiring tale of how love
can transcend all barriers, including death. Grandma Bikini is truly a hoot as
well and will leave readers hoping for another glimpse of her!
"The Healer" by Leanne Burroughs is a vivid historical tale revolving around an
auld healer, Agnes, who is reluctantly dragged to the Drummond castle to tend to
the laird's English captive, Tory, who has been poisoned. In the process, an
attraction develops between Agnes and Warrick, the laird's warrior. This
riveting story is a fascinating portrait that demonstrates that love can
flourish at any age in any time.
Keelia Greer's "In the Space of a Heartbeat" is a futuristic vampire story of
soulmates Melania Knight and Trevor Kerrin. Melania is an agent sent to protect
Trevor as his work is invaluable to the galaxy and must be allowed to continue.
The action is fast paced and readers will want to read more about Melania as she
is not like other vampires!
The anthology concludes with Deborah MacGillivray's mesmerizing tale, "The Rider
in the Storm". Ciera MacIain has grieved for 7 years over the death of her
fiancé, Derek. At the exact spot of his death and on the anniversary of the
fatal accident, she meets Roarke Devlin who knows things only Derek would know.
This haunting tale will send shivers down your spine and leave tears in your
eyes as Ms. MacGillivray breathes life into the characters.
BLUE MOON MAGIC is an anthology that offers a bit of magic for everyone. These
fascinating and compelling tales of wishes fulfilled on a blue moon will
convince even the hardest of hearts about the power of love. Kudos to all of the
authors involved as this is one anthology in which every single story delivers a
powerful punch!
Deborah Wiley
Courtesy of: CK2S KWIPS AND KRITIQUES
July 14, 2006
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...a perfect read for
late at night...
Blue Moon Magic
Highland Press
May 2006
Dawn Thompson, Erin Hatton, Diane Davis White, Katherine Smith, Meagan Hatfield,
Aysel Arwen, M.J. Sager, Jaquelin Lorin, Lee Roland, Kristi Ahlers, Billie
Warren Chai, Kimberly Ivey, Leanne Burroughs,
Keelia Greer, Deborah MacGillivray.
Blue Moon Magic is an enchanting collection of short stories. Each author wrote
with the same theme in mind but each story has its' own uniqueness. You should
have no problem finding a tale to suit your mood. Blue Moon Magic offers
historicals, contemporaries, time travel, paranormal, and futuristic narratives
to tempt your heart.
Legend says that if you wish with all your heart upon the rare blue moon, your
wishes were sure to come true. Each of the heroines discovers this magical fact.
True love is out there if you just believe in it. In some of the stories, love
happens in the most unusual ways. Angels may help, ancient spells may be broken,
anything
can happen. Even vampires will find their perfect mate with the power of the
blue moon. Not every heroine believes they are wishing for love, some are just
looking for answers to their problems or nagging questions. Fate seems to think
the solution is finding the one who makes their heart sing.
The diversity within this book is sure to please. For example, Keelia Greer will
take you into the future thousands of years. Many cultures mesh together, and
when this occurs, special crime teams must exist
to ensure everyone's protection. Just imagine a vampire out there making sure
the earth is safe. Of course, she has to keep us safe from others like her and
especially on the night of the blue moon, which enhances their powers. Confusing
emotions should not interfere but how can she fight the draw of her one and only
perfect mate. On the other hand, perhaps something with more humor will tickle
you today. Diane Davis White has a darling story where a couple of angels,
one in training, helps two confused and lonely musicians find they make perfect
harmonies together. Maybe you are looking for magic. Aysel Arwen has a
contemporary sounding tale with a base of mystical history. Her heroine is
searching for a ring she lost while
visiting Loch Ness. She returns late at night with a flashlight to trace her
footsteps, only she is not as alone as she believed. A most handsome man is
there and offers to help. The physical attraction screams between them and is
too difficult to fight. When they join, a spell is broken and true happiness
becomes their future.
Blue Moon Magic is a perfect read for late at night or even during your commute
to work. The short yet sweet stories are a wonderful way to spend a few minutes.
If you do not have the time to finish a full-
length novel but hate stopping in the middle of a loving tale, I highly
recommend grabbing this book.
Kim Swiderski
Writers Unlimited Reviewer
August, 2006
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