by Bill Willingham, writer (2004)
In the Fables' world, there isn't a lot of happily-ever-after to go around. As refugees from the lands of make-believe, the Fables have been driven from their storybook realms and forced to blend in with our gritty, mundane reality. But that doesn't mean they don't have any room for romance—or the pain, betrayal and jealous rage that go along with it. In fact, love may be blooming between two of the most hard-bitten, no-nonsense Fables around. But are they destined for happiness— or a quick and untimely death?
Emily March
"Town physician Rose Anderson has given up on dreams of a family until she meets artist Hunt Cicero, who has just become guardian to his sister's children and needs Rose and her warm maternal instincts to complete his patchwork family"--
Molly Evans
Her 'Sterling-Thorne' surname might open society doors, but Vicky is passionate about nursing at Miguel Torres' community clinic. The Spanish doctor, however, isn't convinced she has what it takes. Vicky is determined to show him that behind her socialite reputation lies a heart of gold, a heart that's rapidly falling for her gorgeous new boss!
Barbara Kartlend
Having sailed with Sir Francis Drake, swashbuckling privateer Rodney Hawkhurst yearns for a galleon of his own with which to plunder the Spanish Main in the name of Queen Elizabeth. Seeking investment from Sir Harry Gillingham, he has a fleeting encounter with an elfin, tomboyish golden-red-haired beauty – Sir Harry’s youngest daughter Lizbeth – and is bewitched by her limpid green eyes. Yet it is fair and golden-haired elder sister Phillida with whom he first falls in love... Granted his finances on the condition that Sir Harry’s weak, possibly even traitorous son sails with him in the hope that the mission will make him a man, Rodney embarks on a voyage of blood, honour and glory in which he gains great riches but loses his heart, not once, but twice. The risks are great but so are the rewards: wealth beyond compare and, as Rodney finally discovers, a greater, deeper, more passionate love than he ever imagined possible.
Penny Jordan
The debt: Ionanthe will leave her freedom at the castle doors. Ancient laws demand an eye for an eye—she must pay the price for her sister's mistake.The payment: Recently crowned Prince Max plans to bring change to his country, but only after his new bride has arrived—as settlement for the debt he is owed....The price: A ruthless ruler and his virgin queen. Trembling with the fragility of a new spring bud, Ionanthe will go to her husband: She was given as penance, but he'll take her for pleasure!