- Table View
- List View
Creatures of Darkness: Raymond Chandler, Detective Fiction, and Film Noir
by Gene D. Phillips“[An] exhaustively researched survey of Raymond Chandler’s thorny relationship with Hollywood during the classic period of film noir.” —Alain Silver, film producer and authorRaymond Chandler’s seven novels, including The Big Sleep (1939) and The Long Goodbye (1953), with their pessimism and grim realism, had a direct influence on the emergence of film noir. Chandler worked to give his crime novels the flavor of his adopted city, Los Angeles, which was still something of a frontier town, rife with corruption and lawlessness. In addition to novels, Chandler wrote short stories and penned the screenplays for several films, including Double Indemnity (1944) and Strangers on a Train (1951). His work with Billy Wilder and Alfred Hitchcock on these projects was fraught with the difficulties of collaboration between established directors and an author who disliked having to edit his writing on demand.Creatures of Darkness is the first major biocritical study of Chandler in twenty years. Gene Phillips explores Chandler’s unpublished script for Lady in the Lake, examines the process of adaptation of the novel Strangers on a Train, discusses the merits of the unproduced screenplay for Playback, and compares Howard Hawks’s director’s cut of The Big Sleep with the version shown in theaters. Through interviews he conducted with Wilder, Hitchcock, Hawks, and Edward Dmytryk over the past several decades, Phillips provides deeper insight into Chandler’s sometimes difficult personality.Chandler’s wisecracking private eye, Philip Marlowe, has spawned a thousand imitations. Creatures of Darkness lucidly explains the author’s dramatic impact on both the literary and cinematic worlds, demonstrating the immeasurable debt that both detective fiction and the neo-noir films of today owe to Chandler’s stark vision.
Discovering Dr. Riley: Craving Her Ex-army Doc The Nurse Who Stole His Heart Discovering Dr. Riley
by Annie ClaydonIn working to prove herself to her boss, an art therapist nurses a brooding doctor’s cold heart.After a childhood spent in foster care, art therapist Corrine Evans knows how important first impressions are. So when her enigmatic new boss, Dr. Tom Riley, questions the impact her work can make, Cori is intent on proving her value!But as Cori gets to know this devoted doc, she realizes there’s a dark shadow haunting Tom’s past. And as he begins to let her in, Cori discovers there’s so much more to Dr. Riley than she ever dared dream . . .
Lakeside Sweetheart: Her Rancher Bodyguard Lakeside Sweetheart Falling For The Hometown Hero (Men of Millbrook Lake #3)
by Lenora WorthIn the New York Times–bestselling author’s sweet and wholesome romance, a brief return home leads to unexpected feelings for the handsome pastor next door. Returning to her hometown to clear out her late mother’s house, Vanessa Donovan’s goal is to do the job quickly and escape. She refuses to get involved with her handsome neighbor, Rory Sanderson. And she certainly won’t let herself be dazzled by his smile and caring ways. Because if there’s one thing Vanessa won’t do, it’s fall for a minister. While the pastor in Rory wants to mend Vanessa’s wounds, the man in him can’t resist the beautiful woman. But while he’s helping her, Vanessa is doing the unthinkable—healing his own deep scars and opening his heart. Now he’ll have to muster his courage and his faith to convince her that love is worth the risk.
Second Chance in Stonecreek (Maggie & Griffin #2)
by Michelle MajorAs the romantic saga continues, the Stones & Spencers feud, Maggie struggles to resist her ex, and her delinquent sister longs to fit in.Mayor Maggie Spencer is gearing up for reelection and can’t afford any distractions, especially when the town is gossiping about her recent break up to Griffin Stone. Their families are feuding, but there’s no avoiding Maggie’s ex when his family vineyard is host to an important fundraiser. The attraction between them is undeniable, and Maggie can see how easy it would be to fall back into Griffin’s strong arms. Can she trust him to finally take a stand for their relationship?Morgan Spencer will never be the perfect daughter, not like her sister Maggie. If she can’t do anything right, then she’s going to embrace the role of family delinquent. But when reformed bad boy Cole Maren tells her she doesn’t belong with her group of misfit friends, she begins to wonder if she belongs anywhere.Don’t miss the conclusion to Maggie & Griffin’s love story in A Stonecreek Christmas Reunion.Experience the whole journey in the MAGGIE & GRIFFIN trilogy:Book 1: Falling for the Wrong BrotherBook 2: Second Chance in StonecreekBook 3: A Stonecreek Christmas Reunion
The Double Deal: Taming The Billionaire Beast (savannah Sisters, Book 2) / The Double Deal (alaskan Oil Barons, Book 2) (Alaskan Oil Barons #2)
by Catherine MannA sexy scientist is snowbound with an heiress rich in secrets in this steamy contemporary romance by a USA Today–bestselling author.Naomi Steele knows it’s sneaky to sleep with Royce Miller without revealing her true identity. So is neglecting to mention she’s pregnant. Still, being stranded with the reclusive scientist provides the perfect opportunity to convince him to work for her family’s company. Yet once the snow melts and the truth is revealed, Naomi could be dealing with double the trouble . . .
Her Handyman Hero: An Amish Arrangement Claiming Her Cowboy Her Handyman Hero (Home to Dover)
by Lorraine BeattyAn ex-DEA agent masquerades as a handyman for a chance to keep his family together in this heartwarming inspirational romance.Reid Blackthorn arrives in Dover on a personal mission—to make sure his terminally ill brother gets a chance to meet his daughter. Deceiving little Lily’s guardian isn’t his intention. Yet once Tori Montgomery mistakes Reid for her new handyman, he knows it’s the only way to be close to his niece.Tori is honoring her friend’s last wish by keeping Lily away from her father’s family. And once she learns who Reid truly is, she realizes there’s too much at stake—including custody of Lily—for her to fall for the former DEA agent. But in keeping a promise, is she losing out on her chance for a happily-ever-after?
The Courtesan's Book of Secrets
by Georgie LeeUncovered: a list of noblemen's names-each one guilty of treason To save his family legacy, Rafe Densmore must seize a courtesan's infamous register. No one can ever know how his father betrayed his country! One person stands in Rafe's way-the beautiful Cornelia, Comtesse de Vane. In the card rooms of Paris, Rafe and Cornelia made an unbeatable...intimate team. Until, convinced of Rafe's desertion, desperate Cornelia married an elderly comte. Now, returning to London an impoverished widow, she'll do anything to possess the register. Even if that means becoming Rafe's partner once again.... "Lee's novel hits the sweet spot." -RT Book Reviews on Engagement of Convenience
Commanded by the Sheikh (Rivals to the Crown of Kadar #2)
by Kate HewittWhen a desert king needs an imposter bride, he finds true passion with his shy housekeeper in this sexy royal romance.When his fiancée goes missing, Sheikh Aziz al Bakhir needs someone trustworthy to impersonate her until she’s found. So the legendary lothario of Europe demands that his housekeeper, Olivia Ellis, fulfill the role! Olivia thought Kadar was the perfect place to hide from scandal. But playing the sheikh’s betrothed will put her in an unwelcome spotlight. And on top of the global scrutiny, she’ll have to withstand his seductive silver gaze! As ruthless as his desert ancestry, Aziz crashes through her reluctance, and Olivia soon finds herself playing his queen in public . . . and his lover in bed!
The Witches' Kitchen (The Life and Times of Corban Loosestrife)
by Cecelia Holland&“Interweaves . . . romance, magic, and suspense into a superlative historical epic featuring a stoic hero often at odds with the all-powerful Viking warriors.&” —Booklist Corban Loosestrife, his family slain by Viking raiders, has saved his twin sister Mav from the clutches of her Viking abductors, and wrought bloody revenge on Eric Bloodaxe, the King of Jorvik. After fleeing with his family from the war of succession to Vinland, he feels they have finally earned some peace. But then a ship appears on the horizon, bringing Corban a summons to Jorvik and the murderous intrigues of those who would be king. Corban, his son, Conn, and his sister&’s son, Raef—young men ready to prove themselves in battle—must return into this nest of vipers and navigate the deadly political war for the ultimate prize: the Viking throne . . . The Witches&’ Kitchen is second in the epic Life and Times of Corban Loosestrife series, perfect for fans of James L. Nelson, Ben Kane and Adrian Goldsworthy. &“A potent blend of fantasy, history and romance. . . . A rousing, vivid tale rich with Nordic lore.&” —Publishers Weekly &“Holland fleshes out a lively account of the time of Eric Bloodaxe. Recommended.&” —Library Journal
Uncovering Her Secrets
by Amalie BerlinTwo doctors re-examine their relationship when mistrust gives way to passion . . .Hiring her ex, the irresistible Dr. Preston Monroe, is Dr. Dasha Hardin’s secret atonement for her unforgivable past. But her plan is suddenly complicated by his touch, which still makes her heart beat a little too fast . . .Preston has no choice but to reluctantly trust Dasha—even if he can’t fully forgive her, not after what she did to him years ago. And soon he wants to discover more about this newly feisty, vulnerable woman—the only woman with the strength to fight for his irredeemable soul. . . .
Rennie's Way: A Novel
by Verna Mae Slone“An intriguing mix of family history, lore, mountain culture, and folkways, skillfully bound together with an all-but-transparent thread of fiction.” —Library JournalWhen Rennie Slone’s mother dies in childbirth, the twelve-year-old girl is unexpectedly thrust into adulthood. She must keep house for her father, an itinerant preacher who finds little time for family, and raise her newborn sister—a task that becomes Rennie’s lifelong passion. Against all odds, she is determined that Sarah Ellen will have the education she herself has had to give up.This first work of fiction by Verna Mae Slone, firmly grounded in her own background, is set in the 1920s and 1930s in a closeknit community in eastern Kentucky, where family roots run deep. At its center stands as strong and resilient a heroine as any in American literature. The story of Rennie’s struggles and Sarah Ellen’s growth into womanhood form a richly textured picture of the simple, sturdy mountain people—their labor to wrest a living from the land, their neighborly care for one another, their shared joys, their quarrels with the outside world, and their distinctive dialect. We see the people of Lonesome Holler raising and preserving food, gathering for bean stringings, molasses stir-offs, play parties, and pie socials, pitching in to clear a neighbor’s land, assisting at a difficult birth, and helping to bury the dead.Verna Mae Slone, a native of Knott County, Kentucky, is the author of several books, including the bestselling memoir, What My Heart Wants to Tell.“Slone’s style, which includes dialogue written in dialect, is lively. Readers drawn to regional tales will enjoy learning about Lonesome Holler.” —Publishers Weekly
Her Rocky Mountain Defender: Colton And The Single Mom Cavanaugh Vanguard Navy Seal Rescue Her Rocky Mountain Defender (Rocky Mountain Justice #2)
by Jennifer D. BokalA medical student searching for her troubled sister gets caught up with a secret agent investigating a drug cartel in this romantic suspense novel.Searching for her missing sister leads Madelyn Thompkins straight into the path of danger . . . and Roman DeMarco. Wounded physically and emotionally, the undercover agent hardly needs this distraction. When the two collide with a Russian gang, they go on the run—and are drawn together. Their priorities don’t align, but when Madelyn falls victim to a murderous criminal, Roman is ready to sacrifice everything to save her.
Bred to the Bone: Deadly Secrets at Hunter's Mill (Hunter's Mill)
by Lin WaterhouseIn this small-town mystery, a retired teacher moves to the Ozark mountains, where her eager manner ruffles some feathers—and unearths dark secrets. Retired schoolteacher Caroline Hudson has moved to Hickory Bend, Missouri, to embrace small-town life. But her eagerness to join the community only rouses the suspicions of longtime residents. Luckily, her friend Terry needs help fixing up the old Hunter&’s Mill. Caroline is thrilled to learn about her new home through this historic building—especially when she discovers some fascinating documents hidden in the attic. These documents reveal family secrets of prejudice, pride, murder, and mayhem—just the kind of story that piques Caroline&’s curiosity! But some residents would prefer to keep the unpleasantness buried in the past. When someone launches a cover-up as shocking and foolhardy as the original crime, it could bring a permanent end to Caroline&’s new career in sleuthing . . .
His Secret Alaskan Heiress: Alaskan Grooms (Alaskan Grooms #5)
by Belle CalhouneIn this heartwarming romance, an undercover PI falls for his assignment, a runaway heiress hiding out in smalltown Alaska.For heiress Sophie Mattson, moving to remote Love, Alaska, offers her a chance to find people who care about her—not her wealth. The townsfolk quickly take Sophie under their wing, but it’s handsome newcomer and cook Noah Catalano who inspires dreams of home and family. Sophie fears her ruse may drive a wedge between them . . . but she doesn’t know the real reason Noah is in Alaska. Hired by Sophie’s ex-fiancé to keep tabs on her, undercover private investigator Noah is falling for his assignment. Is it too late to overcome this double deception, or can Love make a believer of them both?
Kissed by a Rancher: Triple The Fun Kissed By A Rancher Secret Heiress, Secret Baby (Lone Star Legends #4)
by Sara OrwigA worldly cowboy seeks shelter with a small-town woman—and gets snowed in—in a fairy tale of a Western romance from the USA Today–bestselling author.When a blizzard strands rancher Josh Calhoun at a tiny Texas inn, it’s not boredom that makes him notice innocent Abby Donovan. There’s something about the B & B’s owner, with her ponytail and sweet smile. Now Josh can’t stop wanting her—or kissing her. He refuses to say goodbye . . . When the roads clear, Abby lets herself be whisked away—to New York City, to Josh’s vast Texas ranch, to a wealthy world she’s never known. Will she stay with the tempting cowboy? Or return to the life she left behind?“Abby and Josh seem to be opposites in every way, but beneath the surface it’s easy to see why the sparks fly. What makes them a stand-out couple is the depth and compassion of their sweetly written romance.” —RT Book Reviews (4 stars)
Trusting the Sheriff: Hostage At Hawk's Landing Trusting The Sheriff Protecting Baby (Mills And Boon Heroes Ser.)
by Janice Kay JohnsonA wounded detective hiding in Amish country faces suspicion from the local sheriff in this tense and twisting romantic thriller.Kansas City detective Abby Baker is wounded in a shootout that leaves her partner dead. Though she has no memory of what happened, her sergeant wonders if she has something to hide. Now, as she takes refuge with her aunt and uncle on their Amish farm, Sheriff Caleb Tanner is tasked with learning Abby’s secrets. But the more Tanner digs, the more he’s drawn to her beauty and resilience. And when danger follows her to the quiet Amish enclave in northern Missouri, Abby and Tanner will have to trust each other in order to stay alive.
A Matter of Murder (A Campbell and Carter Mystery)
by Ann GrangerCampbell and Carter are back in their toughest case yet in the seventh Cotswold village crime novel following An Unfinished Murder. Two years ago, Miff Ferguson chose to opt out of the rat race. Since then he&’s been living rough and happily so. Until now. For as the first signs of winter approach, everything in his life is uprooted. While looking for shelter, Miff stumbles across the corpse of a young woman in a dilapidated warehouse. Quickly realizing he is not alone, and has been spotted, Miff becomes embroiled in a game of cat-and-mouse with a killer that forces him to abandon his life and take refuge with his aunt and uncle in the village of Weston St Ambrose. But despite his best efforts to lie low, trouble seems to follow him everywhere, and when another dead body is discovered at a local farm, it&’s clear Miff is not free from danger. With the clock ticking, Inspector Jess Campbell and Superintendent Ian Carter must join forces with the team of police at Bamford to piece together the puzzle before another innocent life is lost . . . Praise for the writing of Ann Granger &“A well-written, well-crafted traditional British mystery by a writer with an assured grasp of her technique.&” —reviewingtheevidence.com &“Characterization, as ever with Granger, is sharp and astringent.&” —The Times &“The story just gets more complex, mysterious and chilling.&” —Good Book Guide &“For once a murder novel which displays a gentle touch and a dash of wit.&” —The Northern Echo &“A clever and lively book.&” —Margaret York
The Rancher's Nanny Bargain: The Tycoon's Secret Child The Rancher's Nanny Bargain Single Mom, Billionaire Boss (Callahan's Clan #2)
by Sara OrwigThis nanny is strictly off limits, but she’s got a hankering to break some rules. A red-hot Callahan’s Clan novel from the USA Today–bestselling author.Rancher Cade Callahan is desperate. As guardian to his brother’s baby, he’s completely clueless, and he needs a nanny quick! Hiring his best friend’s very qualified sister seems like a no-brainer. But Erin Dorsey isn’t the scrawny kid he remembers, and the ravishing redhead has him reeling. Cade has no use for marriage and likes to play the field. Erin is vulnerable because of a recent heartbreak, so Cade promised her brother to keep his hands off. But resisting the allure of his stunning nanny is easier said than done . . .
The Missing Factor (The Jim Factor Novels)
by Daniel C. LortiA former international arms dealer brings his unique expertise to this twisting, action-packed spy thriller. From his elegant home in Southern California, Jim Factor negotiates legitimate weapons deals for his clients in Europe. But when he&’s approached with a shady job that pays too well to refuse, the one-time deal may be his last. With the Russian mafia after him, Factor must disappear quick—and telling his wife, Diane, anything about the situation would only put her in danger. Hiding out in San Francisco and preparing for a life on the run, Factor is tracked down by a private detective—and the Russians aren&’t far behind. Now his only chance at survival is to fight a ruthless, deadly enemy face-to-face. From Alcatraz Island to Spain and the Balkans, The Missing Factor is an international spy thriller shot through with authentic spy craft.
Between Two Worlds (The Alison Plantaine Sagas)
by Maisie MoscoA young girl is drawn to her dramatic family heritage in the first Alison Plantaine saga from the author of Almonds and Raisins. Alison Plantaine was born to the theatre. As a child the life she knew was one of backstage dramas and highly-charged emotions. The desire to perform is in her Plantaine blood. But when Alison learns about her secret heritage it makes her question the path she has chosen. Meanwhile, tastes are changing and the family passion for acting is losing touch with trends. A war is breaking out and Alison senses change in the air. Her mother is a gifted actress and wants her daughter to follow in her footsteps. Her father, shrewd and practical, understands that his daughter&’s respect for family tradition must not stifle her talent and the promise of success. But the decision must be Alison&’s and she becomes torn between duty and heritage, or the life she always dreamed of on the stage. A vivid and emotional family saga from a much-loved author, perfect for fans of Rita Bradshaw and Margaret Dickinson. Praise for the writing of Maisie Mosco &“Once in every generation or so a book comes along which lifts the curtain.&” —The Guardian &“Full of freshness and fascination.&” —Manchester Evening News &“The undisputed queen of her genre.&” —The Jewish Chronicle
The Discerning Gentleman's Guide: Once Upon A Regency Christmas The Discerning Gentleman's Guide The Runaway Governess
by Virginia HeathA Duke’s marriage plan is undone by passion in a Regency romance that is “classically witty, engaging and so sexy . . . a pure joy to read” (Chicks, Rogues and Scandals).Bennett Montague, sixteenth Duke of Aveley, is seeking the perfect bride. He’s narrowed his search to five worthy “Potentials” . . . until the arrival of his aunt’s companion unravels his carefully laid plans. Having fought for everything she has, Amelia Mansfield is incensed by Bennett’s wife-selection methods. But as she’s forced to spend time in his company, she begins to see another side to Bennett—and that man is infinitely more tantalizing and enticing . . .
Hero of Olympus (The Heracles Trilogy)
by Glyn IliffeSurpass all odds, break the chains, defeat a God—the thrilling, triumphant final installment in The Heracles Trilogy that began with Son of Zeus. Heracles&’ trials are far from over. Carrying the weight of the heavens, accompanied only by his most loyal friend, Iolaus, he will do anything to atone for his crimes. But all is not as it seems. Gods and men alike plot against him . . . First Heracles must obtain the girdle of the Amazonian Queen, Hippolyta, steal cattle from the monstrous Geryon, and take apples from the Garden of Hesperides. Through it all Heracles will come to realize his betrayal is more complete than he could ever have imagined. Ultimately, to release himself from his suffering, he must journey deep into Hades, and face death itself . . .
A Deal Sealed by Passion: Helios Crowns His Mistress The Surprise De Angelis Baby The Sheikh's Pregnant Prisoner A Deal Sealed By Passion
by Louise FullerA wealthy Italian playboy’s new property includes a beautiful tenant who’s not leaving without a fight in this sexy contemporary romance.Tycoon Massimo Sforza learned from a young age that emotions are for the weak. He relishes crushing his opponents in the boardroom as much as he enjoys the many women who grace his bed. But his newest adversary is like none he’s ever met before . . .Free-spirited gardener Flora Golding is all that stands between Massimo and the acquisition of the stunning Italian palazzo she’s hiding herself away in—but his plan to seduce the antagonistic beauty only serves to make this deal even sweeter! Only Massimo hasn’t counted on Flora’s passion blurring that vital line between business and pleasure . . .
The Surprise De Angelis Baby: Leonetti's Housekeeper Bride / The Surprise De Angelis Baby (The Italian Titans #2)
by Cathy WilliamsAn undercover billionaire’s sexy fling at sea could lead to the most important merger of his life in this romance by a USA Today–bestselling author.Billionaire businessman Daniel De Angelis’s plan was simple: a few undercover days at sea to uncover the weaknesses of the ship he plans to acquire. Instead he discovers a vulnerability of his own—gorgeous art teacher Delilah Shaw!The terms of their liaison were clear: two weeks of complete sensual surrender that ends the moment the cruise ship docks. But stepping back onto dry land brings Delilah back to earth in more ways than one. Now she’s facing two very shocking truths: Daniel lied about his identity while tempting her . . . and now she’s pregnant with his baby!
Appalachian Prey: Secured By The Seal (red, White And Built, Book 5) / Ranger Defender (texas Brothers Of Company B, Book 2) (Lavender Mountain #1)
by Debbie HerbertIn this romantic thriller, a cop must protect a moonshiner’s daughter—and her unborn baby—from a mysterious killer in the Appalachian foothills.After her father is murdered, Lilah Tedder dreads facing deputy Harlan Sampson. Not only did the handsome lawman leave her heartbroken, but she’s also carrying his secret child. Though she still wants him, Lilah knows his professional ambition won’t let him associate with the daughter of a notorious outlaw. But when a killer targets Lilah, Harlan becomes more than her protector. Now they must uncover old family secrets or pay the ultimate price.