Arizona, 1884, and Vera Palmer, a 23 year old widow from genteel Connecticut arrives in the frontier town of Goose Flat to take up a prospecting claim inherited from her dead husband, and a part-time job as a bookeeper in a local boarding house. The boarding house is in fact a brothel but, needing the money, Vera takes the job anyway. She's soon drawn into the violent, abused lives of the working girls and Sadie, their Madame. Vera is attracted to bar regular Will Keane, a local lawyer, who helps her investigate the mining claim. Can love offer her an escape or will the unpredictable, dangerous world surrounding the Star Mansion brothel destroy the relationship and Vera's hopes of a new life? Here Allyson Stack offers a gripping, beautifully wrought love story amidst a wholly authentic evocation of the Wild West at its most threatening. 'An astonishing, accomplished novel. The vivid, visceral descriptions transport the reader to the Arizona of the 1880s and French Battlefields of 1918 as we follow the life of the extraordinary Vera Palmer. Alive with memorable characters, from the working girls in the brothel where Vera works as bookkeeper, to the pioneering and brave young woman doctor, ‘Tosh’, whom she befriends in wartime France, this is a novel to be savoured and remembered.' Maureen Myant, author of The Search 'An impressive debut that juxtaposes two periods in history which, though close in time, often seem so far apart in our imagination. From the Wild West to the Western Front, in Vera we have a protagonist, vulnerable and adventerous, open-hearted and independent, in whose company it is a pleasure to travel. The writing is luxurious and sensual. Under the Heartless Blue is a bewitching story of love, loss and survival told with humour and heart-breaking honesty." Iain Maloney, author of The Waves Burn Bright, Silma Hill and First Time Solo 'Allyson Stack brings us a committed, luminous debut; a historical novel you won’t forget. Set beneath the capricious skies of 1918 Europe and the wild old Arizona Territory, Vera's story is gutsy, effervescent and mesmerizing.' Alan Warner, author of Morven Callar, The Stars in the Bright Sky and Dead Man's Pedal
Mack's Bar and its crime-solving clientele are quickly gaining notoriety for helping solve some high-profile cases. But Mack is learning the hard way that not all press is good press... By day, Mackenzie "Mack" Dalton is the proprietress of a popular Milwaukee watering hole. But after last call, she uses her unique cocktail of extra perceptive senses to help solve some of the city's most grisly homicides. Now, Mack and her barstool detectives are happy to help when Tiny, one of the bar's newest patrons, asks them to look into his sister's murder. Though the case has gone cold, Mack's heightened senses quickly put her on the killer's trail. But when a throng of reporters intrigued by her talents descends on Mack's Bar, her efforts are muddled as a real-life Moriarty begins putting her infamous skills to the test, leaving Mack feeling shaken and stirred... * Includes drink recipes *
DISORDER IN THE COURT . . . Connie Wilkerson has worked her butt off to go from heartbroken paralegal with a drinking problem to becoming Pineville, Michigan’s fiercest new lawyer. But she’s still short on luck. Exhibit A: her very first case is against bad-boy contractor David Carelli. Carelli has been a thorn in Connie’s side since high school, getting away with whatever he dreams up. He’s blond, handsome, and he dresses like a model. But everyone in town knows he cuts corners. Just the way he looks at her really gets Connie’s goat. She’s going to get him into chambers and settle the smug right out of him. There’s just one problem. Exhibit B: Their supposedly hostile negotiations are turning hot instead. Now the jury is out on whether a second chance is recommended . . .
With the perfect plan to get the guy, what could possibly go wrong? Nora Fulbright is the most talented new cheerleader at Riverbend High. She may have been a friendless overachiever in the past but this year Nora is determined to transform from social larva to full blown butterfly. Even if it means dumbing herself down. But when Adam moves to town and steals Nora’s heart with his ultra-smarts she devises a plan to wow him with her intellect. Every move she makes getting closer to Adam is more complicated and she quickly loses control of her strategy. Can Nora to prove that she's not a complete airhead while keeping her image in check? Allyson Valentine's pitch-perfect humor and delightfully frustrating romance is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins's Anna and the French Kiss, Susanne Colosanti and Sarah Dessen.
Allison has always been the round peg in her very square family. Instead of becoming a doctor or lawyer like her successful sisters, she’s perfectly happy running her diner in ripped jeans and comfortable sneaks. But she wouldn’t mind a little bit of her siblings’ wedded bliss. And now that she’s catering her best friend’s Christmas wedding, she can’t get marriage off her mind. So even though she’s never been against a little harmless fun, she makes herself a promise: no more meaningless flings. Luke needs to lay low to avoid the process servers dogging him. He’s left his three-star Michelin-rated restaurant in Chicago in good hands, and Pineville, Michigan seems as good a place to hide-out as any. Especially with Allison giving him those hot looks she thinks he doesn’t see. He’s wheedled his way into her kitchen…and now is taking aim at her heart. If there’s one thing Luke is good at, it’s heating things up. But Allison is only looking for forever, and his life is back in Chicago. Will the chemistry between them be strong enough to cook up something special? Or will these holidays give them nothing but the blues? Formerly published as THE CHRISTMAS WEDDING SWAP.
A runaway bride sets the stage for four linked tales of romance by four beloved authors. The sun is shining, the garden’s in bloom and every detail is perfect as the wedding of the year gets underway at the charming Bluebird Inn. But when the Big Day becomes an even bigger fiasco, the surprises unfold in four entwined tales featuring the unforgettable Loving family . . . The moment for “I do” has arrived, and all eyes are on the bride . . . until she turns heel, hijacks a Ducati, and speeds out of town! Now everyone entangled in the wedding that wasn’t takes off on an unexpected adventure of the heart: A down-on-her-luck B&B owner who needs a little help finding her own bluebird of happiness. . . . A big city cop with small-town roots who pulls over the girl he could never have. . . . A jilted groom and a Type A wedding planner with mischievous twins who discover a little chaos can make life—and love—wonderfully exciting. And of course, the caterer, a hometown girl who risks getting burned when she reconnects with an old flame. That loving feeling is sweeping through tiny Serendipity, Texas, and second chances are turning into happy endings as sweet as the bluebirds coming home to nest . . . A Publishers Weekly Best Books of Summer Selection “These easily resolved love stories are perfect for a lazy Sunday read on a sun-drenched porch with a glass of sweet tea.” —Publishers Weekly
Dive into eye-catching contemporary weaving With renowned artist Allyson Rousseau, contemporary weaving is simple, bold, and colourful. In this book, Allyson explores everything a beginning weaver needs and provides techniques advanced weavers can combine and expand on in their practices. Start by exploring fibres and tools, and then build your own frame loom. Dive into the many weaving techniques that characterize Allyson’s contemporary pieces. Take your home decor to the next level with projects like wall hangings, pillows, and coasters, and make unique brooches and necklaces that stand out in any setting. Bright colours and bold designs made to stand out in the home or as accessories Includes all the information a beginner needs to start weaving, from making a frame loom and choosing fibre, to completing a stunning project Learn to build your own designs using colour theory, grid planning, and palette building
Like a little small town in your romance? Do you like your romances to make you laugh, make you sigh, and give you all the sexy times you could want? Then this box set is for you! The complete Pineville Romance series brought together in one click. Box set includes PUTTING OUT OLD FLAMES, UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE, COURTING DISASTER, and ALL WRAPPED UP. Fall in love with Pineville, Michigan today!
SOMETIMES YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED . . . Allison Stuart has always been the odd-woman-out of her family. She wears her jeans a little too tight, colors her hair a little too blonde, and instead of going into medicine and law like her sisters, she runs a diner. She’s also the only single sibling left. And while she won’t change her style, and her meatloaf is to die for, thank you very much, she wouldn’t mind her share of wedded bliss. So she makes an early New Year’s resolution: No more meaningless flings. Drop-dead sexy Luke Hamilton is everything Allison has sworn off. His only serious relationship has been with his five-star restaurant, Le Cygne Noir, in Chicago. When he’s threatened by a lawsuit, Luke decides to hide out in Pineville, Michigan, until the statute of limitations runs out. The small town is filled with Christmas charm, but he can’t imagine living there. Heating things up with the hottie who owns the local diner would make his exile bearable—if he can convince her to give up her ridiculous resolution . . .
Snuggle up on your favorite chair and get comfortable. This exciting small-town rom-com is the perfect read for your lazy afternoon. (Written by a natural, semi-intelligent human being, not A.I.) Dax is no stranger to trouble. If he isn’t stirring it up, he’s sniffing it out faster than a bloodhound does a bone. But even his limits are tested when he finds a beautiful woman hiding in the back of his van. She’s the only person who can out-crazy his best efforts. She’s frustrating, sexy…and the one thing standing between him and his dreams. Lissa goes where the wind takes her, but this time her spontaneity has put a target on her back. On the run, she thinks Dax and his band of rescue dogs just might be the only way to put her pursuers off the scent. Getting attached can only lead to trouble, but Dax and Lissa can’t fight their animal attraction. Somewhere along the way, Dax’s priorities change from keeping Lissa safe, to just keeping her, period. But love doesn’t come without sacrifice. Dax might love a challenge, but Lissa might be more than he can handle. Forever Wild is a must-read for people who love small-towns, a free-spirited heroine who’s nothing but trouble, and romances filled with heat and furball humor. It’s perfect for fans of Roxanne St. Clair and Jill Shalvis.
Family ties mean everything to Sarah. James can’t wait to cut them. Can these two opposites make a connection that will last? With a successful veterinary practice and a big, close-knit family up in each other’s business, the last thing Sarah Martineau wants is a new relationship. Her work, the non-profit she’s launching to save Shelter Bay’s feral cats, and a burgeoning relationship with her biological father keep her busy enough. Dating is the farthest thing from her mind. Until she meets James. He’s blunt, bossy, and won’t be around long. He gets under her skin faster than a dog sniffs out cheese. He’s wrong for her in every way…but he makes her think maybe she doesn’t want to be right. James Marshall wants to be anywhere but California’s Lost Coast looking after his sick father. The man wasn’t there for him growing up, and only duty brings James here to help him convalesce. The only thing interesting in Shelter Bay is the sweet little vet, and James is determined to make their time together count. But with three fathers cramping their style, finding time for romance isn’t easy. Add in an eccentric local activist trying to sabotage her cat rescue and an expiration date to their relationship, and this romance might be over before it’s even begun. But when they get news that changes everything, will tragedy bring Sarah and James together, or drive them farther apart? Find out in this sexy small-town romance with all the feels.. Perfect for fans of Bella Andre, Jill Shalvis, and everyone who likes books that make them laugh, cry, and say ‘Oh, my.’
The World's Best Sourdough, Croissants, Focaccia, Bagels, Pita, and More from Your Favorite Bakers (Including Dominique Ansel, Duff Goldman, and Deb Perelman)
The World's Best Sourdough, Croissants, Focaccia, Bagels, Pita, and More from Your Favorite Bakers (Including Dominique Ansel, Duff Goldman, and Deb Perelman)
Master the art of breadmaking with this gorgeous baking book featuring 30 delicious bread recipes from famous bakers, including Tieghan Gerard, Duff Goldman, Maurizio Leo, Christina Tosi (Milk Bar), Joanne Chang (Flour Bakery), and more! This is a bread book for people who really, really love bread in all its wondrous forms—but who also might be intimidated by the word “starter.” The recipes, tips, and tricks in 30 Breads to Bake Before You Die come from expert dough workers and bread magicians who’ve put in the hours of kneading, proofing, stretching, folding, and baking to perfect these recipes, all in the oh-so-noble name of good bread. Get ready to bake your way through some of the most mouthwatering bread recipes, including: Beginner’s Sourdough from Maurizio Leo (@theperfectloaf) Foccacia from Joanne Chang (Flour Bakery) Bagels from Call Your Mother Deli Croissants from Dominique Ansel Ultimate Dinner Rolls from Tessa Arias (@Handletheheat) Matzah from Duff Goldman Baguette from Shawn Bergin (Bakery Four) Pita from Alon Shaya And so much more! Because who has time for the third-best bagel recipe or so-so sourdough? Not you! So bake up these awesome, accessible breads now. Before you die.
Every autumn, Moonbright, Maine, is the picture of charm with its piles of crisp leaves, flickering jack-o’-lanterns ... and a touch of the sweetest kind of enchantment. Witches, goblins, the occasional ghost—they’re all sure to be spotted at the annual Halloween parade, where adults and children alike dress in costume to celebrate Moonbright’s favorite holiday. And no place has more seasonal spirit than Bellaluna’s Bakeshop, a family business steeped in traditional recipes, welcoming warmth—and, legend has it, truly spellbinding, heart-melting treats ... Between good-natured Halloween tricks, frothy pumpkin lattes, and some very special baked goods, for three Moonbright residents looking for love—whether they know it or not—the spookiest thing will be how magical romance can suddenly be ... PRAISE FOR THE COTTAGE ON PUMPKIN AND VINE “This wonderful, well-written collection calls to mind brisk autumn nights cuddled with a loved one.” —Publishers Weekly “This diverse trio of stories bring three couples to love with a charming, slightly sexy Halloween flair ... Sassy, funny, and dusted with magic.” —Library Journal “Delightful and spicy. . . . With humor and a little mysticism thrown in, each story winds its way to a happy ever after. Every pairing comes to fruition in a unique way.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars Includes cookie recipes!
Connie has finally gotten her life back on track. As a newbie attorney, her first case is against the town’s public enemy number one, building contractor David Carelli. She’s had his number since high school, and wiping that smirk off of his face when she wins her lawsuit won’t just launch her career, but will make her happier than a half-off shoe sale. David knows he has a reputation in his hometown of Pineville. When he wants something, he goes after it. When an obstacle gets in his way, he knocks it down. He’s had to fight for everything he has in life, and he doesn’t much care if someone gets butthurt over his tactics. But there’s one woman he’s always hoped would have a different opinion of him. The one woman who seems immune to his charm. Connie is determined to keep their negotiations hostile, but he’s just as stubborn, and he’s ready to turn up the heat. Because now he wants Connie. And David Corelli always gets what he wants… Formerly published as WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE YOU?
A bar owner taps into her special sleuthing talents when a businessman is shot in this top-shelf mystery with drink recipes included. Fresh off solving a murder that hit too close to home, Mack's trust is shattered. But when Milwaukee police detective Duncan Albright asks for her help with a shooting, she can't resist using her extra-perceptive senses to benefit others. It turns out the victim was the ruthless businessman their friend Mal was investigating undercover. And now Mal is missing—and his fingerprints are on the gun. Was his cover blown, forcing him into hiding? Or could he be a straight-up killer on the run? Mack doesn't know what to believe anymore—except her own gut, which leads her to secret rooms, shocking revelations . . . and the fear that this could be her final round. “The first book in the Mack's Bar Mystery series is a hit!” —RT Book Reviews on Murder on the Rocks “Murder with a Twist has a lot of sleuthing pleasure packed into its pages.” —Fresh Fiction
Welcome to the Crossroads, where dragons, shape-shifters, and witches are real and the paranormal is normal, in this award-winning series by Jennifer Ashley w/a Allyson James. I say my Crossroads Hotel gives the magical a refuge, but things are going too far, too fast. First, Drake, one of the dragons I’ve tangled with in the past, shows up with a dragon egg, of all things, asking me to guard it from all comers. This is after the sheriff’s grandfather nearly wrecks on my front door and begs me for a place to hole up. Not only that, but my grandmother has a new ally, a mysterious crow Changer, who might be more dangerously powerful than we know. When the dragon egg proves to be more important that Drake is letting on, Mick and I embark on a quest to discover who murdered the kid’s mother, and what new and dangerous foe will stop at nothing to eliminate me, Mick, and my friends and family to obtain the egg and begin the destruction of all dragon-kind.
“A complicated mystery that will surprise even the most experienced of readers” by the author of In the Drink (Kings River Life Magazine). For Mack and her barfly allies, solving homicides calls for equal parts instinct and wit. To strain out a crafty criminal, the mixture has got to be absolutely perfect . . . It’s a week before Christmas, but Milwaukee bar owner Mackenzie “Mack” Dalton is hardly in good spirits. Chilled to the core by the murder of bouncer Gary Gunderson, Mack is determined to use her extra perceptive senses to identify the gunman responsible. Did Gary’s patchy past brew up some fatal trouble, or could his death be linked to a series of cryptic letters concocted by Mack’s anonymous adversary? With a second case to crack, innocent lives at stake, and a media frenzy in their midst, Mack and her barstool detectives have little time to mull over the grim details—especially when clues lead dangerously close to home . . . Includes drink recipes! Praise for the Mack’s Bar Mysteries “The first book in the Mack’s Bar Mystery series is a hit!” —RT Book Reviews “Murder with a Twist has a lot of sleuthing pleasure packed into its pages.” —Fresh Fiction “A good book that was hard to put down. The plot was quite interesting especially Mack’s unique talent which added intrigue to this finely turned drama.” —Dru’s Book Musings
An analysis of the transition from universal, publicly funded health care to New Labour's application of market principles, 'NHS plc' portrays a national institution reaching crisis point and serves as a key lesson for those concerned with health care.
For many women in their 20's and 30's, the greatest professional hurdle they'll need to overcome has little to do with their work life. The most focused, confident, and ambitious women can find themselves derailed by a tiny little thing: a new baby. While more workplaces are espousing family-friendly cultures, women are still subject to a "parenting penalty" and high-profile conflicts between parenting and the workplace are all over the news: from the controversy over companies covering the costs of egg-freezing to the debate over parental leave and childcare inspired by Marissa Mayer's policies at Yahoo. Here's the Plan offers an inventive and inspiring roadmap for working mothers steering their careers through the parenting years. Author Allyson Downey, founder of weeSpring, the "Yelp for baby products,” and mother of two young children advises readers on all practical aspects of ladder-climbing while parenting, such as negotiating leave, flex time, and promotions. In the style of #GIRLBOSS or Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office, Here's the Plan is the definitive guide for ambitious mothers, written by one working mother to another.
As the holidays descend, three single women take a thoroughly modern approach to good old-fashioned romance, and wonder if the best—and most complicated—gift of all is just a click, tap, or swipe away… MADE UP Like a Christmas miracle, the Build a Boyfriend App lets you simply input the stats of your dream man, and witty texts, passionate emails, and hot Instagram pics start flooding in. No more awkward questions or pitying looks as you face the holidays alone! MIXED UP But even the best technology has its glitches. When real-life emotions come into play, this trio of twenty-somethings find themselves in a tangle of crossed signals, flying wrapping paper, disastrous Christmas parties…and surprising kisses. MATCHED UP Yet despite the confusion of their mistletoe misadventures, when the New Year dawns, these very satisfied women just may find themselves waking up with true love beside them. Praise for New York Times Bestselling Author Cat Johnson “Loaded with tender emotions and red hot love scenes” --Fresh Fiction on One Night with a Cowboy USA Today Bestselling Author Kate Angell “A sparkling writer who combines humor and sizzling romance.” --Kirkus Reviews
Following a plant-based, gluten-free diet is one of the healthiest lifestyle choices around, yet it can be a challenge to create meals that not only match your needs, but taste delicious too. But not any longer! Great Gluten-Free Vegan Eats shows you exactly how to create compassionate and wheat-free recipes that are impressive enough for even the most seasoned foodie. Full of fresh and all-natural ingredients, the 101 fully-photographed, scrumptious recipes you’ll find inside prove that eating vegan and gluten-free doesn’t have to be a sacrifice, but a delight!From tempting appetizers, to hearty mains, to luscious desserts, you’ll find dishes to suit your every need and craving, including:-Cherry Vanilla Bean Pancakes-Mediterranean Croquettes-Coconut Asparagus Soup-Roasted Red Pepper & Fava Salad-Walnut Ravioli with Vodka Sauce-Rosemary, Leek & Potato Pie-Chocolate Hazelnut Brownie Cheesecake-Banana Berry CobblerLive a healthy and sustainable life, while still enjoying the foods you love, with Great Gluten-Free Vegan Eats!
Husband and wife Isaiah David Paul and Allyson M. Deese team up to bring a street-themed Christian romance to life. Amirah Dalton has accepted her calling to be in outreach ministry at her local church. The only problem is that she’s the only unwed female in leadership, and she feels the pressure to find a husband—fast. After serving time in prison for larceny and mail fraud, Mateo Valdez joins the newly formed Street Disciples Ministry in Asheville, North Carolina in an effort to atone for his sins and spread the word of Christ. Amirah and Mateo both join His-Love.com in an effort to meet someone of the opposite sex willing to give them a chance. Will they listen to God and connect, or will they let Satan allow their perceptions of one another get in the way?
This essential guide offers a detailed framework for assessing communication processes within an organization and using the results to develop improved organizational strategies. Presented in clear, accessible prose are the "tools of the trade" for planning and initiating audits, gathering data using a wide variety of methodologies, analyzing the findings, and preparing effective reports. Throughout, practical examples drawn from the authors' influential work in the field help readers understand the real-world applications of the concepts discussed and gain skills for creative problem solving. A successor volume to Cal Downs's popular Communication Audits, the book has been extensively rewritten with many new topics and two entirely new chapters reflecting today's critical issues and best practices. It will serve as both an authoritative primer for human resource and management consultants and a comprehensive text for undergraduate and graduate students in organizational communication.
Engagement for Equitable Outcomes provides practical suggestions for practitioners addressing urgent social problems and reducing inequities in their communities. Newcomer, Wilson, and Criner Brown offer approaches and models customized to local conditions and equity-focused guidance for innovating and adapting encouraging interventions. Their approach stresses intentional end-user engagement and collaboration, including a five-step Data and Engagement for Equitable, Measurable Outcomes Model: 1) inclusively collaborating to prioritize equitable outcomes; 2) identifying and developing promising interventions; 3) engaging and adapting to implement customized interventions; 4) scaling interventions for maximum impact; and 5) sustaining and improving equity-focused programming. The authors provide road maps, check lists, insights, and practical tips for navigating these five essential practices. Ultimately, this book is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and perspectives of policy makers, researchers, practitioners, and all who are interested in addressing urgent social problems with sustainable, equitable results.
Banished to the Earth, the guardian angels are trying to live amongst humans. They succeed until Opal Keaton, a seventeen-year-old bent on escaping small-town life, discovers the truth. At first, Opal thinks that Caleb and Emma are just exceptionally beautiful teenagers who happen to be a little strangea "from their interest in Opal to their unusual kindness. But soon Opal learns the truth about her new friends, that they belong to a race of fallen angels and that they believe Opal is the one who can help them return to heaven. Skeptic that she is, Opal doesn't want to believe their story. But why else would Caleb and Emma be so involved in her life? Before she comes to terms with the truth that her friends are fallen angels imprisoned on Earth, Opal is swept up into a supernatural battle that has been raging since the beginning of time. In Rachel Allyson Stone's fast-paced novel, The Guardian, Opal finds herself being hunted by the cruelest of beings. Only Caleb and Emma know how to save her. But when Opal's life begins to fall apart, she learns that salvation depends on her own stubborn, pessimistic heart. Can Opal survive a war between angels and demons? Will the guardians be able to return to heaven, or will they be on the run again, always seeking peace and never finding it?
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