Filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock popularized the term “MacGuffin,” using it as shorthand for whatever object put the characters (and the story) in motion. For Hitchcock, the MacGuffin mattered mainly because the characters cared about it enough to go after it–whether the audience precisely understood it was a secondary concern. Today’s novels ... more >
As Napoleon pursues his plans for the invasion of England, English operative Augustus Whittlesby gets wind of a top secret device, to be demonstrated over the course of a house party at Malmaison. The catch? The only way in is to join forces with that annoying American socialite, Emma Morris ... more >
Dear Ms Willig, I always seem to be behind in keeping up with this series but I think it’s because I want to be sure I have a Pink Carnation book on hand. And in this instance it worked beautifully for me. You see, I’ve been in a reading slump ... more >
Fruitcakes and Other Leftovers by Lori Copeland – cute name, right? I loved it too but the kooky aunt finally did me in. A little kook here and there in a story is fine but ‘all kook all the time’ wore on my nerves. They make medication for people like ... more >
Dear Ms. Willig, I’m late, I’m late, I know I’m late in getting to and reading this installment in the “Pink Carnation” series but after my slight disappointment with “Night Jasmine” I’ll be honest and say I wasn’t eager to jump into it. Now that I have, I will cheerfully ... more >
Dear Ms. Willig, I admit I haven’t read the latest in the “Pink Carnation” series “Blood Lily” so when Jane sent me the arc for “The Mischief of the Mistletoe” I inwardly cringed. Oh dear, I thought, there’s no way I can get “Lily” read in time so I’ll just ... more >