Mystery Novel Month: Review of Winter's Soul by Patricia Harrington

This short Gothic mystery by Patricia Harrington is not my usual fare, but I enjoy spreading my wings when it comes to reading.

Elizabeth Sidham dreams of marrying into one of Britain's elite families. When George Arburthnot invites Elizabeth to a dinner dance, she is certain her dreams have come true.

George is tortured by his domineering mother, Catherine. Eager for an heir, she insists her son woo Elizabeth. She cares not that George's best friend and secret lover, William, is still in the picture. After George and Elizabeth are married, Catherine soon pushes for that desired heir; and when a son is born, she begins arranging the child's life. The couple are at wit's end. How long must they suffer under Catherine's control?


Winter's Soul by Patricia Harrington proves a short story can pack a huge wallop. Told from all four characters' points of view, this is a foreboding, mysterious tale. By allowing each character a chance to tell a portion of the story, the reader enjoys the emotions within: George's confusion, William's devotion, Elizabeth's anxiety and pain, Catherine's disappointment and anger. While I had figured out how it would end, I wasn't sure of all the details. 


With an eloquent style, Harrington draws the reader into the lives of the people residing at Havenwood Manor. Definitely a story that will capture your attention.

• Print Length: 32 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing (January 1, 2011)
• ISBN: 978-1-926931-05-0
• SRP: $2.50

I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinions. I received no monetary compensation of any kind for this review.

Short Story Review: A Very Holly Christmas by Sheila Roberts

It is a year after the big Christmas strike in Holly. Joy thinks her husband Bob is turning back into Mr. Humbug. Sharon Benedict is determined to have a beautifully decorated house inside and out. And things are moving forward for Carol White and Jerri Rodriguez.

If you read On Strike for Christmas by Sheila Roberts, you certainly won't want to miss this short follow up story that returns to the town of Holly one year later. Just as funny as the original story, you'll be aching for more from the ladies of the knitting club and their families. If you didn't get a chance to read On Strike for Christmas, then this short will give you a great glimpse into a talented writer who knows how to touch your hearts and tickle your funny bone.

Title:  A Very Holly Christmas
Author: Sheila Roberts
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Sold by: Macmillan
ASIN: B005T54NYK
Current price:  FREE

I downloaded a free e-copy of this book from Amazon. I received no monetary compensation of any kind to provide this review.

Seasonal Short Story Review: It Must Have Been the Mistletoe by Marie Higgins

Running for his life, Justin Monroe escapes his wedding rehearsal dinner and heads for the mountains. Little does he know that Brooke Cavanaugh is sleeping in the back of his friend's Jeep. When Brooke awakens, Justin isn't too thrilled to see her. She's just ruined his secret getaway. What's more important, now she could be in danger too. With the way the snow is piling up outside, it looks like they'll be stuck spending some time together.

If you're looking for a short, sweet romance then It Must Have Been the Mistletoe by Marie Higgins will fit the bill. While predictable in its nature, it blends a man and woman who have every reason not to want to be attracted to each other, a blizzard, and a cabin in the mountains to create an enjoyable seasonal story.

I tend to prefer romantic suspense, where there is a bit more action, but Justin's plight combined with Brooke's past and their banter keeps readers turning the pages.


Title: It Must Have Been the Mistletoe
Author: Marie Higgins
Publisher: PMC Publications
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
ASIN: B0065TVYLY
Kindle price: 99 cents


I cannot for the life of me remember how I obtained a copy of this book. I thought I purchased it from Amazon, but I don't see it in my Kindle store history, nor do I see it on my Smashwords purchase history. Rest assured this review is my honest opinion, for which I received no monetary compensation.