Wish List

I usually read Anthologies at the holidays and this is one of the best I have read. I picked it up because of the authors, mostly because of LISA KLEYPAS. Naturally, her story was up to her usual standards.*Excellent* Fell in love with Andrew, Lord Drake. Lisa Cach wrote a good story also and so did Lynsay Sands, as I have not read any of their works, have all of their books, but haven't read them yet. The big *SURPRISE*, was CLAUDIA DAIN. I have all of her books but have not read them yet and will do it soon. She wrote a lovely story, had me chuckling and had to stay up to finish it. Clarissa and Beau were a wonderful couple. This story would have done better in a full length book, but nevertheless, it has me looking forward to the rest of her books.

I am not big on anthologies, for I enjoy the details of a story and how the characters develop, and feel short stories do not permit the personal involvement of full length novels. However, I know, as a former bookseller, that during the Hols the Christmas Anthologies always do well. This is one of the best I have come across. Kleypas is a strong lead, with newer Cach and Dain showing they are names to watch. But the real gem is the last story "All I Want" by Lynsay Sands. This is a gentle, funny story of a young lady in a trouble family. Brother was killed race carriages through London; Father now drinks and gambles his money away, leaving Mother, young daughter and Pru making wishes they won't end up in the poor house before New Year's Eve. Pru, like all Lynsay's spunky characters, decides to take matters into her hands and corner papa in the gambling hell. Her efforts to get inside the Men Only club is a riot that will have you howling out loud. And naturally, who should she meet and fall for - the owner of the gaming hell. But can he make her wishes come true? Lynsay is tops at giving you really funny situations, without insulting the intelligence of the characters or the readers. This is one of those stories that will linger in your mind for years to come.Mark my words: Lynsay Sands is the next big break out writer. When I was selling Books there were three names I said would break away from the pack and shine, Linda Howard, Nora Roberts, and Jayne Ann Krentz. I have been saying to friends, watch out, Lynsay Sands will be the next one.Any romance reader would love this under the trees. Men, give this and a box of chocolate and you will have her heart!!!

I've said it before, I really do not like anthologies, but Look at these authors, two of my very favorites! Lisa Kleypas and Lynsay Sands! They were the two that made me buy the book and the other two were surprise bonuses!I loved the dialog with Lisa Kleypas! I cannot tell you but the comment from Lord Andrew when he was told that he looked like an 'unmade bed' had me on the floor - you have to read the story to hear his outrageous answer - pure delight!Lynsay Sands certainly did not disappoint either. The mischief she causes while trying to get her father to stop drinking and gambling before losing everything they owned - priceless.Lisa Cach and Claudia Dain's offerings were every bit as delightful.I must say this book should be at the top of everyone's list for just the pure enjoyment of full outrageous belly laughs!

I have read MANY short story collectionns and this ranks as one of the best. With powerhouse authors like these, I figured it would be great and it was.