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| When The Bough Breaks Miss Mae |
Fiction-Young Adult
Whimsical Publications,
LLC/paperback, 194 pages
Oct. 2009
$11.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-936167-01-2
Whimsical Publications,
LLC/paperback, 194 pages
Oct. 2009
$11.95
ISBN-13: 978-1-936167-01-2
Darlene Moore’s reason for shunning Parker Shane has nothing to do with his
reputation of being a playboy. She even dates him before the death of her mother
forces her to move away. After a two-year absence from Dalesville, she returns
home to find Parker exchanging wedding vows with her sister. Two months later, her
sister dies.
Then Richard Ryan, head of Dalesville’s wealthy, prominent family, and Parker’s
employer, goes missing. Could there be a connection to his disappearance and
Parker’s unexpected promotion?
Danger and questions a plenty barrage Darlene with the deadly speed of a six-
shooter. Who called down a representative from a Washington agency? Who later
assaulted him? Who attacked Darlene at her friend’s apartment? And will Parker’s
scandalous brand of playboy be changed to one of murderous culprit? Or, in the
moment of Darlene’s greatest need, might he become her rescuing knight?
reputation of being a playboy. She even dates him before the death of her mother
forces her to move away. After a two-year absence from Dalesville, she returns
home to find Parker exchanging wedding vows with her sister. Two months later, her
sister dies.
Then Richard Ryan, head of Dalesville’s wealthy, prominent family, and Parker’s
employer, goes missing. Could there be a connection to his disappearance and
Parker’s unexpected promotion?
Danger and questions a plenty barrage Darlene with the deadly speed of a six-
shooter. Who called down a representative from a Washington agency? Who later
assaulted him? Who attacked Darlene at her friend’s apartment? And will Parker’s
scandalous brand of playboy be changed to one of murderous culprit? Or, in the
moment of Darlene’s greatest need, might he become her rescuing knight?
Comment/review = Miss Mae has a way of writing that keeps you from putting down the
book till you are finished. If you think you have a clue of who the murderous culprit is,
your mind will soon be changed. There is danger around and questions that seem to
have no answers. Will Parker be branded as a murderer instead of a playboy, or what
about Rob. He would have a strong motive. One thing for sure you won’t want to stop
till you have finished the book as you are in for a surprise ending, I have not read one
of Miss Mae’s books yet that have been a disappointment and I feel “As The Bough
Breaks” will be right up there as a best seller along with her other books. Look for this
book out on the market in October. You can’t go wrong
Reviewed By: Lynn
read-n-review.blogspot.com
Rated: 5
Comment/review = This was such a sweet and charming read. I really enjoyed the
story. The characters were strong and encouraging. The characters clicked from the
moment they met. The author, Miss Mae has a unique style, one I haven’t seen in a
while. I have a feeling readers are going to grab her books up as if they were going
out of style. The mystery with the plot is unlike any other. You think you know what is
going to happen next, but you will be surprised to see where the plot of this story takes
you next. I got so lost within the pages of this novel. I started it and I couldn’t wait to
finish it. The drama is intense, but not overwhelming. It’s a great story and would I
would definitely recommend to my family and friends, especially my teenage nieces.
You should read this story, don’t be fooled by it being in the young adult genre. It is a
book even the most mature of us can relate to and love.
Reviewed By: Holli Winters
Mistress Bella Reviews
Rated: 4
Comment/review = Miss Mae has developed believable personalities in her characters
and wonderful mystery twists that I love about her books! As with the other wonderful
books I have read by Miss Mae, she provides several suspects for the danger and
trouble that abounds. This makes her books so much fun as you try to figure out the
true villain because it isn’t always whom you first suspect! There are hints but some of
them are hidden!
There was a point midway that was a bit slow for me, but do not worry! Soon the action
starts up and the mystery gets moving full force. Then the book just flies by as you
read to find out what happens! Miss Mae writes wonderfully sweet mysteries that can
be enjoyed by everyone. Pick this up for a good mystery read!
Reviewed By: MarthaE
You Gotta Read Reviews
Rated: You NEED TO READ (4.5 of 5)
Comment/review = When the Bough Breaks
Miss Mae has turned in another sweet romance with mystery intermingled. Once again
she shows her knack for vivid descriptions of places, people, emotions, food,
environment, etc. Parker and Darlene, the main characters, are likeable as is Uncle
Richard and Boone. The cliffhanger incidents are well handled and he reader is kept
on the edge of the cliff, quite literally in one incident.
The romance slowly develops and the twists and turns fuel Parker and Darlene's
relationship. The setting is late 1960s, early 1970s and Miss Mae roots using that time
period with her meticulous allusions to songs, automobiles, food and political issues.
The short chapters provide handy stopping places for those of us who suffer from
interruptions during the reading of an excellent book such as this one.
Amazon review by: Larry Hammersley
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = So, you just purchased your copy of "When The Bough Breaks," by
suspense author, Miss Mae.
You sit down in your easy chair with a cup of hot chocolate, raise the foot rest and get
comfortable. Ah... how relaxing.
But are you REALLY ready for this? Where are your nerve pills (preferably natural
sedatives like Valerian Root or Kava)? And don't forget the smoothing serum for your
hair. (Yes, hair-raising is an accurate description of this thriller). And last but not least,
you will need a calming scripture verse. I suggest John 14:27--
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth...Let not
your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Okay. Now you are ready...I think.
From the very beginning, this book has an eerie atmosphere. All the way from the first
visit to "Eleven Elms" to the unexplaiined death of the heroine's sister. And when a
major player goes missing, you'll wonder, "Is he part of this diabolical scheme, or is he
one of the good guys?" And what about that strange butler?
But you will not know anything until the very end. I thought I had figured it out while I
panted and wheezed over the last 50 pages. WRONG! You will NEVER guess who-
dunnit, or why!
Miss Mae has a way of tripping you up. I like that even though I had to slick on a lot of
smoothing serum to tame my hair. Never a dull moment in this book from the start. The
characters are believable, the chemistry between Parker and Darlene real, and the
plot builds until you think you are going to scream. Go ahead; it might help.
Yep! She's done it again. This one could be Miss Mae's prodigy.
One last suggestion. Don't read "When The Bough Breaks" on a stormy night. And
stock up on Valerian Root beforehand.
Amazon review by: Laurean Brooks "Laurie
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = Miss Mae has captured yet again another lovely romance along
with a mysterious twist to the story line. A wonderful book to hold in your hands,
turning the pages as each chapter is left, longing to know more of what happens next.
Great way to capture the reader's attention! Will Darlene & Parker be a couple? Why
was her sister's death sudden? Purchase "When the Bough Breaks" to find out more
about the people of Dalesville!
Amazon review by: TN Girl
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = Though a sweet romance is essential to this tale, it is far from the
entire story. There were enough twists and surprises to keep me turning page after
page to find out what would happen next. Miss Mae once again had me guessing,
incorrectly I might add, as to where the story was headed. The timing and setting of
the book brought back my own memories of living and dating in a small town. The
intrigue and suspense held me in its grip bringing to mind Miss Marple and Agatha
Christie mysteries. Nothing is as it seems and secrets abound in this book.
Sweet enough for a teenager, but sophisticated in its own way, I thoroughly enjoyed
the trip and I definitely recommend When The Bough Breaks for anyone who enjoys
their romance mixed with mystery.
Amazon review by: Rebecca J Vickery
Rated: 5 stars
book till you are finished. If you think you have a clue of who the murderous culprit is,
your mind will soon be changed. There is danger around and questions that seem to
have no answers. Will Parker be branded as a murderer instead of a playboy, or what
about Rob. He would have a strong motive. One thing for sure you won’t want to stop
till you have finished the book as you are in for a surprise ending, I have not read one
of Miss Mae’s books yet that have been a disappointment and I feel “As The Bough
Breaks” will be right up there as a best seller along with her other books. Look for this
book out on the market in October. You can’t go wrong
Reviewed By: Lynn
read-n-review.blogspot.com
Rated: 5
Comment/review = This was such a sweet and charming read. I really enjoyed the
story. The characters were strong and encouraging. The characters clicked from the
moment they met. The author, Miss Mae has a unique style, one I haven’t seen in a
while. I have a feeling readers are going to grab her books up as if they were going
out of style. The mystery with the plot is unlike any other. You think you know what is
going to happen next, but you will be surprised to see where the plot of this story takes
you next. I got so lost within the pages of this novel. I started it and I couldn’t wait to
finish it. The drama is intense, but not overwhelming. It’s a great story and would I
would definitely recommend to my family and friends, especially my teenage nieces.
You should read this story, don’t be fooled by it being in the young adult genre. It is a
book even the most mature of us can relate to and love.
Reviewed By: Holli Winters
Mistress Bella Reviews
Rated: 4
Comment/review = Miss Mae has developed believable personalities in her characters
and wonderful mystery twists that I love about her books! As with the other wonderful
books I have read by Miss Mae, she provides several suspects for the danger and
trouble that abounds. This makes her books so much fun as you try to figure out the
true villain because it isn’t always whom you first suspect! There are hints but some of
them are hidden!
There was a point midway that was a bit slow for me, but do not worry! Soon the action
starts up and the mystery gets moving full force. Then the book just flies by as you
read to find out what happens! Miss Mae writes wonderfully sweet mysteries that can
be enjoyed by everyone. Pick this up for a good mystery read!
Reviewed By: MarthaE
You Gotta Read Reviews
Rated: You NEED TO READ (4.5 of 5)
Comment/review = When the Bough Breaks
Miss Mae has turned in another sweet romance with mystery intermingled. Once again
she shows her knack for vivid descriptions of places, people, emotions, food,
environment, etc. Parker and Darlene, the main characters, are likeable as is Uncle
Richard and Boone. The cliffhanger incidents are well handled and he reader is kept
on the edge of the cliff, quite literally in one incident.
The romance slowly develops and the twists and turns fuel Parker and Darlene's
relationship. The setting is late 1960s, early 1970s and Miss Mae roots using that time
period with her meticulous allusions to songs, automobiles, food and political issues.
The short chapters provide handy stopping places for those of us who suffer from
interruptions during the reading of an excellent book such as this one.
Amazon review by: Larry Hammersley
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = So, you just purchased your copy of "When The Bough Breaks," by
suspense author, Miss Mae.
You sit down in your easy chair with a cup of hot chocolate, raise the foot rest and get
comfortable. Ah... how relaxing.
But are you REALLY ready for this? Where are your nerve pills (preferably natural
sedatives like Valerian Root or Kava)? And don't forget the smoothing serum for your
hair. (Yes, hair-raising is an accurate description of this thriller). And last but not least,
you will need a calming scripture verse. I suggest John 14:27--
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth...Let not
your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Okay. Now you are ready...I think.
From the very beginning, this book has an eerie atmosphere. All the way from the first
visit to "Eleven Elms" to the unexplaiined death of the heroine's sister. And when a
major player goes missing, you'll wonder, "Is he part of this diabolical scheme, or is he
one of the good guys?" And what about that strange butler?
But you will not know anything until the very end. I thought I had figured it out while I
panted and wheezed over the last 50 pages. WRONG! You will NEVER guess who-
dunnit, or why!
Miss Mae has a way of tripping you up. I like that even though I had to slick on a lot of
smoothing serum to tame my hair. Never a dull moment in this book from the start. The
characters are believable, the chemistry between Parker and Darlene real, and the
plot builds until you think you are going to scream. Go ahead; it might help.
Yep! She's done it again. This one could be Miss Mae's prodigy.
One last suggestion. Don't read "When The Bough Breaks" on a stormy night. And
stock up on Valerian Root beforehand.
Amazon review by: Laurean Brooks "Laurie
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = Miss Mae has captured yet again another lovely romance along
with a mysterious twist to the story line. A wonderful book to hold in your hands,
turning the pages as each chapter is left, longing to know more of what happens next.
Great way to capture the reader's attention! Will Darlene & Parker be a couple? Why
was her sister's death sudden? Purchase "When the Bough Breaks" to find out more
about the people of Dalesville!
Amazon review by: TN Girl
Rated: 5 stars
Comment/review = Though a sweet romance is essential to this tale, it is far from the
entire story. There were enough twists and surprises to keep me turning page after
page to find out what would happen next. Miss Mae once again had me guessing,
incorrectly I might add, as to where the story was headed. The timing and setting of
the book brought back my own memories of living and dating in a small town. The
intrigue and suspense held me in its grip bringing to mind Miss Marple and Agatha
Christie mysteries. Nothing is as it seems and secrets abound in this book.
Sweet enough for a teenager, but sophisticated in its own way, I thoroughly enjoyed
the trip and I definitely recommend When The Bough Breaks for anyone who enjoys
their romance mixed with mystery.
Amazon review by: Rebecca J Vickery
Rated: 5 stars
| Excerpt for When The Bough Breaks |
He chuckled softly. “All I want to know is if you’d like to go out with me?”
Wholly unprepared for the question, Darlene stared straight ahead, unblinking. Her
tongue refused to work, and for one scary moment, she thought she forgot how to
breathe. “You aren’t serious?” she finally managed to gasp.
He raised a curious brow. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
“Because everybody knows Ellie Pearson is your girlfriend.”
“They do, huh?”
“Yes! And if that’s not bad enough, your reputa—” She caught herself, clamping her
mouth shut to keep the words from spilling out.
“My what?” Parker eased up on the gas to give a wide berth to a terrapin that
lumbered across the road. “My reputation?”
Darlene raised a wrist and wiped sweat off the side of her cheek. Desperately, her
eyes strained to see George Vining’s garage. Just around the next curve, past the tall
white pine…
“I’ve heard some of the things said about me.” At the odd note in his voice, Darlene
stole a peek at his profile. He wore a faint smile. “So. How about a date?”
Unable to believe he asked again, she floundered for the right answer. “Look, I…” She
gulped and blurted out, “I’m not the kind of girl you date.”
“I date pretty girls. And you definitely fill the bill.” He moved his hand off her seat, his
fingers grazing her bare arm. Though the touch appeared accidental, Darlene had the
sneaking suspicion it hadn’t been.
Discreetly, she edged closer to her door. “But Ellie’s your girlfriend.”
“A guy can’t date more than one girl at a time?”
“No. It wouldn’t be right.”
Parker gave a low laugh. The attractive way it rumbled deep in his throat threatened to
short circuit Darlene’s already overcharged nerves. “Little lady,” he murmured, “you
drive a hard bargain.”
She pretended not to hear. The car rolled to a stop in the garage’s yard and Darlene
jumped out, running to find Margo’s father. “George,” she called, seeing a pair of
coverall clad legs splayed under the body of a dented pickup truck. “You busy?”
He rolled out to squint at her from a face blackened with grease and oil. “Something
the matter?”
“Her Ford busted a hose on Beam Road.” Parker walked up to stand next to Darlene.
“It lost all its coolant.”
George grabbed hold of the truck’s fender and pulled himself upright. “I don’t know the
size it takes, so it’d be best to tow it in. That way I’d only have to make one trip.”
“Thanks.” Darlene smiled her gratitude.
“Want me to drop you at home on my way?” George nodded toward the cab of his tow
truck.
“You don’t have to.” She knew what that truck’s interior looked like and she barely
suppressed a shudder. “It’s only a few blocks for me to walk.”
He fished in his pocket and brought out a set of keys. “All right then. I reckon I’d better
get a move on.”
Darlene watched the rear of the big truck disappear down the road before she turned
to Parker. Forcing herself to sound polite, she said, “Thanks for the lift.”
A warm breeze feathered his hair across his tanned forehead. He gave a slight shrug.
“Don’t mention it.”
She brushed past him to head for home, but he reached out a fast hand to grasp her
wrist. Startled, she looked up. Calculation sparkled in his blue eyes. “What about our
date?”
“I thought I made that clear.”
“The only thing you made clear is that you’re playing hard to get.”
“I’m not playing.” She jerked her arm free and twisted on her heel. But she’d only gone
a few steps when she heard him call from behind.
“You asked for it, Cupcake.”
She paused. Then, curious, she turned. Feet apart and arms folded across his chest,
Parker exuded firm resolve. He raised a hand to his brow in a mock salute. “Let the
games begin.”
Wholly unprepared for the question, Darlene stared straight ahead, unblinking. Her
tongue refused to work, and for one scary moment, she thought she forgot how to
breathe. “You aren’t serious?” she finally managed to gasp.
He raised a curious brow. “Why wouldn’t I be?”
“Because everybody knows Ellie Pearson is your girlfriend.”
“They do, huh?”
“Yes! And if that’s not bad enough, your reputa—” She caught herself, clamping her
mouth shut to keep the words from spilling out.
“My what?” Parker eased up on the gas to give a wide berth to a terrapin that
lumbered across the road. “My reputation?”
Darlene raised a wrist and wiped sweat off the side of her cheek. Desperately, her
eyes strained to see George Vining’s garage. Just around the next curve, past the tall
white pine…
“I’ve heard some of the things said about me.” At the odd note in his voice, Darlene
stole a peek at his profile. He wore a faint smile. “So. How about a date?”
Unable to believe he asked again, she floundered for the right answer. “Look, I…” She
gulped and blurted out, “I’m not the kind of girl you date.”
“I date pretty girls. And you definitely fill the bill.” He moved his hand off her seat, his
fingers grazing her bare arm. Though the touch appeared accidental, Darlene had the
sneaking suspicion it hadn’t been.
Discreetly, she edged closer to her door. “But Ellie’s your girlfriend.”
“A guy can’t date more than one girl at a time?”
“No. It wouldn’t be right.”
Parker gave a low laugh. The attractive way it rumbled deep in his throat threatened to
short circuit Darlene’s already overcharged nerves. “Little lady,” he murmured, “you
drive a hard bargain.”
She pretended not to hear. The car rolled to a stop in the garage’s yard and Darlene
jumped out, running to find Margo’s father. “George,” she called, seeing a pair of
coverall clad legs splayed under the body of a dented pickup truck. “You busy?”
He rolled out to squint at her from a face blackened with grease and oil. “Something
the matter?”
“Her Ford busted a hose on Beam Road.” Parker walked up to stand next to Darlene.
“It lost all its coolant.”
George grabbed hold of the truck’s fender and pulled himself upright. “I don’t know the
size it takes, so it’d be best to tow it in. That way I’d only have to make one trip.”
“Thanks.” Darlene smiled her gratitude.
“Want me to drop you at home on my way?” George nodded toward the cab of his tow
truck.
“You don’t have to.” She knew what that truck’s interior looked like and she barely
suppressed a shudder. “It’s only a few blocks for me to walk.”
He fished in his pocket and brought out a set of keys. “All right then. I reckon I’d better
get a move on.”
Darlene watched the rear of the big truck disappear down the road before she turned
to Parker. Forcing herself to sound polite, she said, “Thanks for the lift.”
A warm breeze feathered his hair across his tanned forehead. He gave a slight shrug.
“Don’t mention it.”
She brushed past him to head for home, but he reached out a fast hand to grasp her
wrist. Startled, she looked up. Calculation sparkled in his blue eyes. “What about our
date?”
“I thought I made that clear.”
“The only thing you made clear is that you’re playing hard to get.”
“I’m not playing.” She jerked her arm free and twisted on her heel. But she’d only gone
a few steps when she heard him call from behind.
“You asked for it, Cupcake.”
She paused. Then, curious, she turned. Feet apart and arms folded across his chest,
Parker exuded firm resolve. He raised a hand to his brow in a mock salute. “Let the
games begin.”
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Reviews for When The Bough Breaks
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