Product Description
Against a vivid backdrop of history, Danielle Steel tells a compelling story of love and war, acts of faith and acts of betrayal…and of three generations of women as they journey though years of loss and survival, linked by an indomitable devotion that echoes across time.

For the Wittgenstein family, the summer of 1915 was a time of both prosperity and unease, as the guns of war sound in the distance. But for eldest daughter Beata, it was also a summer of awakening. By the glimmering waters of Lake Geneva, the quiet Jewish beauty met a young French officer and fell in love. Knowing that her parents would never accept her marriage to a Catholic, Beata followed her heart anyway. And as the two built a new life together, Beata’s past would stay with her in ways she could never have predicted. For as the years pass, and Europe is once again engulfed in war, Beata must watch in horror as Hitler’s terror threatens her life and family—even her eighteen-year-old daughter Amadea, who has taken on the vows of a Carmelite nun.

For Amadea, the convent is no refuge. As family and friends are swept away without a trace, Amadea is forced into hiding. Thus begins a harrowing journey of survival, as she escapes into the heart of the French Resistance.Here Amadea will find a renewed sense of purpose, taking on the most daring missions behind enemy lines. And it is here, in the darkest moments of fear, that Amadea will feel her mother’s loving strength—and that of her mother’s mother before her–as the voices of lost loved ones echo powerfully in her heart. And here, amid the fires of war, Amadea will meet an extraordinary man, British secret agent Rupert Montgomery. In Colonel Montgomery, Amadea finds a man who will help her discover her place in an unbreakable chain between generations…and between her lost family and her dreams for the future—a future she is only just beginning to imagine: a future of hope rooted in the rich soil of the past.

With the grace of a master storyteller, Danielle Steel breathes life into history, creating a bold, sweeping tale filled with unforgettable characters and breathtaking images—from the elegant rituals of Europe’s prewar aristocracy to the brutal desperation of Germany’s death camps. Drawing us into a vanished world, Echoes weaves an intricate tapestry of a mother’s love, a daughter’s courage…and the unwavering faith that sustained them—even in history’s darkest hour.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (56)

great story

I thought the book Echoes was a great story. The book had a lot of history to it which I thought was good. The characters were very strong in what they went through in the story. I have read many of Danielle Steel books this was one of her best books. I would highly recommend this book. It is great reading

Very memorable...couldn't put it down!
I read this book 4 years ago on vaccation to St. Lucia.I haven't read Danielle Steel in a while, but have read many of her books.I was looking at one of her new books and saw this one and thought to myself I loved that book.I can still remember certain parts of the book like it was yesterday.I think it is a great story and I couldn't put this book down.

Exactly what I was looking for...
I got my purchase a little later than I expected, but it was the holiday season so I assumed it probably would be longer than what was initially stated, since you can't do much about the post office.Arrived in perfect condition, just as advertised.

Under dire circumstances
Only under the most dire circumstances would I have read a Danielle Steel book. But since it was the only book available to me at the time, I read it. And it was good.

Ms. Steel is criticized for "telling" the story, not "showing" it (one of the mantras of The Literati). And, yep, that's right. Not only does she break all the rules of writing as put forth in How-To books, but she leaves numerous threads unresolved. So much for the technical aspects!

In fiction, you have to suspend disbelief. This is especially true for this book. Why would a half-Jewish nun be shipped from Prague to Paris? Oh yes, to keep the story going and to add a number of derring-do scenes. Completely illogical.

But then again, as a kid, I loved Grimm's Fairy Tales and that's what we have here -- a morality play.

Heart Warming
I am a huge fan of Ms Steel and even enjoy reading twice.Echoes is really an excellent family story and all families have stories to tell.This one was of an era of total hell for many and many of members of this family were lost due to the war.I could have read more on the outcome of the Kinders. ... Read more

Product Description
In Danielle Steel’s #1 New York Times bestseller, a Hollywood wedding sets the scenefor a vivid portrayal of a prominent family whose hopes and fears are as real asour own.

Simon Steinberg, a major movie producer, and Blaire Scott, an award-winningtelevision writer, are among the most respected couples in Hollywood. They have defiedthe clichés, keeping their marriage together for decades. Their children—Samantha,Scott, and Allegra—are successful and happy, but must face the challenges we fearfor our own children as well.

As an attorney for the stars, twenty-nine-year-oldAllegra Steinberg is used to negotiating major movie deals, and fielding phone callsat all hours of the day and night. But she has little time for a private life—untila chance encounter with a New York writer turns her life upside down. Suddenly, Allegrafinds herself planning a wedding at her parents’ Bel Air home.

As preparations beginfor a September ceremony, surprise announcements and ever-increasing anxiety bringout the best and worst in everyone. But as couples in each generation of the Steinbergfamily struggle with broken vows and new hopes, the real meaning of Allegra’s weddingemerges. For the bride, the ceremony is a bridge between her past and her future.For her parents, it is a reminder of the bond that holds them all together. And forboth families, it is an opportunity for reconciliation, and new hope.

In a compellingportrait of real people in an unreal world, Danielle Steel uses Hollywood as a backdropto reveal the dreams, the fears, and expectations of a ceremony that unites us alland changes lives forever…The Wedding.
Amazon.com Review
Allegra Steinberg has all the real-life problems of a Hollywoodmover and shaker. As the daughter of two prominent producers and theentertainment lawyer for some of the most famous stars, Allegra spends her timesupporting those who stand directly in the glare of fame. When Allegra'sfragile personal life starts to crumble, however, she finds the courage toturn her attentions to her own life. And when she meets Jeff Hamilton, asincere, sexy writer, she finds a reason for self-examination. Thecourse of true love soon takes its required detours, and Jeff and Allegra must learn to compromise, grow up, and grow together.

Once again, Steel delivers the goods: a novel full of fame, fashion,and modest passion. Though the story starts off a bit unfocused, andtakes minor side trips to investigate unrelated issues, fans shouldfind it a satisfying Steel fix. The Wedding has no pretensionsof being anything other than what it is--a perfect read for a planetrip or a long, lazy weekend. --Nancy R.E. O'Brien ... Read more

Customer Reviews (73)

Nice, short, easy read!
This book was a great book!It is a nice, short read that you can read in a few days or a week.It is a heartwarming story that leaves you with a warm feeling.It isn't a book you will remember for 10-20 years, but wonderful while your in it.I would reccomend to any women that loves a warm story.

Danielle Steel
What can I say, it's Daniell Steel. I've yet to read a book of hers that I didn't love. She keeps you spell bound to the end. I have never been one for enjoying reading all that much, but am amazed that I have read nearly every one she's writen and will continue to as long as she keeps writing such great and entertaining stories.

fanstatic
I read the book The Wedding by Danielle Steel.I thought the book was great. The characters were really strong.I could not put the book down it was so good.I read the book in a few days.I would highly recommend this book it is a great read.

Not One of Danielle Steel's Better Novels
I didn't like this DS novel very much.I know this is fiction, but why should a woman, abandoned by her birth father, then allow the bum to co-walk her down the aisle on her wedding day with the stepfather who raised her?The plot twists and angles that sent the character in this direction were less than convincing.

Also, the plot filler about the troubled lives of Allegra's clients - screwed up rock stars and emotionally troubled musicians - was boring and irrelevant.I also wasn't emotionally caught up in the angst of her mother and sister, whose personal angst created plot filler but nothing particularly interesting or memorable.

Arguably the best of her books...
This is my favorite Danielle Steel book. Modern, zippy and fun. Multi-generational relationships help make it even more interesting. ... Read more

Product Description
"This is the story of an extraordinary boy with a brilliant mind, a heart of gold, and a tortured soul. It is the story of an illness, a fight to live, and a race against death.

"I want to share the story, and the pain, the courage, the love, and what I learned in living through it. I want Nick's life to be not only a tender memory for us, but a gift to others. . . . I would like tooffer people hope and the realities we lived with. I want to make a difference. My hope is that someonewill be able to use what we learned, and save a life with it."
--Danielle Steel

From the day he was born, Nick Traina was his mother's joy. By nineteen, he was dead. This is Danielle Steel's powerful, personal story of the son she lost and the lessons she learned during his courageous battle against darkness. Sharing tender, painful memories and Nick's remarkable journals, Steel brings us a haunting duet between a singular young man and the mother who loved him--and a harrowing portrait of a masked killer called manic depression, which afflicts between two and three million Americans.

At once a loving legacy and an unsparing depiction of a devastating illness, Danielle Steel's tribute to her lost son is a gift of life, hope, healing, and understanding to us all.

With a new afterword for the paperback edition.
Amazon.com Review
Like KurtCobain, Nick Traina lived for punk rock (his bands made two CDs,Gift Before IGo and 17Reasons), succumbed to heroin addiction, and died ofsuicide. His mom, DanielleSteel, takes us through her 19 twister-like years with Nick in amemoir more affecting than her potboiler novels. Like his AWOL addictfather, Nick had good looks, bad behavior, and a yen for thefeminine. Five days before he died, he phoned a woman he saw in acenterfold and had a new girlfriend by nightfall. But his fun was everhaunted by manic depression. At age 11, he was a bed wetter who ateall the Tylenol and Sudafed in the house. He first considered suicideat 13, as Steel learned by reading his diaries after his death.

There is tension in this story--one doctor told Steel if she could getNick to live to 30, he'd probably live a normal life span. (Forexample, Nick's troubled dad resurfaced, sober, soon after his son'sdeath.) And Steel conveys a sense of the intelligence Nick used toconceal his learning disability, and the irreverent charm thatalternated with irrational rages. Oliver Sacks has urged usnot to ask what neurological disease a person has, but what sort ofperson the disease has got hold of. Steel gives us a vivid sense ofthe costs of the disease to a family--and of the person who was NickTraina. --Tim Appelo ... Read more

Customer Reviews (219)

Inspiring, hopeful, very touching
I just finished reading the book, I love it!I will say its a journey for me as well.All the ups and downs, challenges along the way, she was very fortunate to have the means to get the help she needed with the "Body Guards" and Julie.Folks that don't have the means surely have other challenges one being our "Country" does not recognize mental health and assist those with lack of funds or inurance caps to help our children, as well as state programs that do not work.It surely gave me hope, and knowing we are not alone.God Bless her and her family!

Great
I really enjoy this , It also gives some very good information
on manic depression

Excellent
I read this book years ago when it was first published. I have a friend witha child with similar problems and I bought it for her from Amazon.

Very efficient in delivery and the book is in good condition
I am very satisfied in the quick service and the condition of the book as I received it.Good Job,
Thank you,
Darlene

Satisfied
The novel was considered "used" however the quality far exceeded that.The cover and pages were both in a pristine condition.The novel itself is a must read for parents!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Four sisters, a Manhattan brownstone, and a tumultuous year of loss and courage areat the heart of Danielle Steel’s new novel about a remarkable family, a stunningtragedy—and what happens when four very different young women come together underone very lively roof.

Candy–it’s the only name she needs—is blazing her way throughParis, New York, and Tokyo as fashion’s latest international supermodel. . . .

Her sister Tammy has a job producing the most successful hit show on TV, and a homeshe loves in L.A.’s Hollywood Hills. . . . In New York, oldest sister Sabrina isan ambitious young lawyer, while Annie is an American artist in Florence, livingfor her art. . . . On one Fourth of July weekend, as they do every year, the foursisters come home to Connecticut for their family’s annual gathering. But beforethe holiday is over, tragedy strikes and their world is utterly changed.

Suddenly,four sisters who have been fervently pursuing success and their own lives—on oppositesides of the world—reunite to share one New York brownstone, to support each otherand their father, and to pick up the pieces while one sister struggles to heal hershattered body and soul. Thus begins an unscripted chapter of their lives, as a bustlinghouse is soon filled with eccentric dogs, laughter, tears, friends, men . . . andthe kind of honesty and unconditional love only sisters can provide. But as the fourwomen settle in, they are forced to confront the direction of their respective lives.As the year passes and another July Fourth approaches, a season of grief and changegives way to new beginnings—as a family comes together to share its blessings anda future filled with surprises and, ultimately, hope.

With unerring insight andcompassion, Danielle Steel tells a compelling story of four sisters who love andlaugh, struggle and triumph . . . and are irrevocably woven into the fabric of eachother’s lives. Brilliantly blending humor and heartbreak, she delivers a powerfulmessage about the fragility—and the wonder—of life.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (94)

Waste of Money
If I could give this book a half of a star I would. I got this book at the airport to pass time. Well, time did pass very slowly. It took me two hours to get through the first chapter. Everytime I would attempt to read it I would fall asleep. The characters are boring, the plot is boring, everything about this book is boring, and the writing is lame. My time would have been better spent reading for my Abnormal Psychology class. Don't even waste your money on it, hold out for something better.

Sisters
I decided to give Danielle Steel one more chance to impress me.I had read her in the past and found that she repeated herself constantly throughout the entire book - and this was no exception.If I was actually reading the book, I could have skipped parts.Unfortunately it is a book on tape and I couldn't do that.Suffice it to say that this is my last attempt to appreciate her style.Without the numerous repetitions, the book would have been short enough for a short story.

for immature people
with all respect to Danielle Steel but I think she should have mentioned that this book is for teenagers , nothing unusual or special , same old stories

Great service
Got my cd's in good time, the product was in good shape and all was good!

Slow Beginning. Great Middle. Disappointing Ending. Okay Overall.
The book got off to a rather slow start. The writer spent the first forty or so pages describing each of the main characters and giving their back story. Had the writer not insisted on making the same points and repeating the same thoughts over and over again as if her readers are idiots and wouldn't comprehend the first, second or third time around, those forty pages could have easily been wrapped up in a good ten pages.

After the first forty pages the book really took off and developed into a great story. The accident and the events that followed really keep me interested. However, there was a bit of confusion with some of the main characters. For the first half of the book I often got Sabrina and Tammy confused as they had very similar characteristics and lifestyles. The only thing that separated them was the fact that one had a boyfriend and the other didn't. I almost felt as if the writer should have merged the two and made one character. It wasn't until much later in the book that Tammy became a necessary part of the story. Then there's Candy. With her being the worlds most popular and successful supermodel I'm confused as to how she managed to live a rather normal life. She was able walk the streets and enter regular establishments and never once where there paparazzi or screaming fans around. She had no drivers, personal assistants or bodyguards; nothing to make the readers believe that she was this huge star that was described early on in the book.

The book ended on a cliffhanger which was a bit disappointing to me. There should have been one more chapter at the end to tie everything up. I really wanted to know how things worked out for each character, mainly Annie and the dad.

With that being said, if it weren't for the slow start, the slight confusion with the main characters and the cliffhanger ending, Sisters would have been a 5 star read. But with all things considered I can only give it 3 stars.
... Read more

Product Description
Her beloved Italian homeland shattered in the wake of World War II, exquisite Serena,Principessa di San Tibaldo, has nothing left except her name, her ancestry... andher heart which she gives completely and forever to Major Brad Fullerton. But noteven Brad's ring—or his child—can protect her from the calculating wrath of the powerfulFullerton dynasty, and the woman who will become Serena's bitter enemy. Sweepingfrom the war-torn palazzos of Rome to the glittering avenues of Manhattan and theglamorous world of high fashion. Here is the vibrant story of one woman's triumphantyet bittersweet journey of the heart.Amazon.com Review
Danielle Steel produces another yarn that defies the imagination inRemembrance. Impoverished by World War II, Principessa Serena di SanTibaldo is working as a servant in the Italian palazzo once owned by herfamily when the Americans liberate the country. Beautiful blonde Serenacaptures the attention of U.S. Army Major Bradford J. Fullerton, member ofa wealthy and powerful Manhattan family. Following a whirlwind courtshipand marriage, Serena and Brad return stateside to continue his militarycareer. Life seems even more perfect with the birth of their daughterVanessa, but then Brad is killed during the early days of the Koreanconflict, leaving Serena with a young child to provide for, and no means ofsupport. Drawing on the core of strength developed during World War II,Serena parlays her beauty into a modeling career. It is her beauty thatmakes Serena the object of obsession for a brilliant but unstablephotographer. Steel spans two generations of women who learn to cope withthe hand life has dealt them and to prevail in spite of the odds. Afast-paced ride! --Alison Trinkle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Remembrance Empowered
I originally read this book in 1981 and forgot how it ended. Out of boredom, I tried it again. I discovered why I forgot it. It ended tragically, for whatever reason. Lets face it, Danielle Steel does not write literature, yet her settings and plots enthralled us for about a decade. This one was no execption. Why did I forget this one? The main character is too weak. If Ms Steel or her staff reads this, they should take note. Indeed if you have, my ending is something we all would have loved to see. Spoilers ahead!

Principessa Serena is one of the most intriging and beautiful characters DS ever created. She was also the weakest. Here is my rewrite-After Brad dies, Serena follows her modeling career with more drive and concern for the glamourous world of fashion. She Works hard and becomes stronger, moving swiftly from NYC, London, Paris and finally Rome. She becomes wealthy again and decides to start a fashion magazine. She fires her junkie photographer. The magazine needs its headquarters, so Serena wrests back her childhood Palazzo with little effort, gathering most of the family treasures lost in the war.Indeed, she resumes her title of Principessa, moving Vanessa to Rome, rebuilding the house San Tibaldo, with her diamond dripping glamour. Furthemore, she recovers the farm in Umbria, and the Venetian mansion. All of Italy admires her efforts.

She finally reunites with Teddy, has his child(Charlie, a son) and confronts Margaret Fullerton. It is heated(yanking pearls, slapping her face!) and she emerges victoriously. There is a throwdown with Patti, and she rescues Greg and puts him in rehab, finally bringing him to Rome. She marries Teddy, gains the family fortune and they establish an empire of elegance and galmour, with paparazzi chasing them feverishly. You have to love those flashbulbs! Venessa grows into a movie starlet, filming around the world, like her mother, Charlie becomes a famous Tenor in Venice. The house San Tibaldo survives and thrives. The story ends happily ever after and the miniseries is top rated. For Steel fans, it is one of her best novels. Publishing history is changed as it outsells all competition.

Back to the gloomy reality, what was published is morbid and forgettable. Remembrance? Its never too late for a rewrite. I could do it. Ms Steel obviously quit writing years ago, yet her books get published every few month.

A little different
I have just recently started reading Danielle steel. I like her way of writing. In the beginning up until the princess was killed, I was so much into story but as soon as the affair between Andreas and Venessa started I was turned off. I don't think i can digest that portion. Somehow it felt like voilation of the relationships. I don't understand and like one of the last statement andreas said to her
"In you hearts you will take me with you. You have been dear to me as a child. Now you will remember me for a liftime."
It didn't feel right. She was a kid when he met her and he couldn't possibly have feelings for her at that time. Now after she is grown up ......
The portion after she met andreas, it felt like it was written in hurry. Everything happened so fast and I can't digest that.

READ THIS BOOK
This book is so good. I couldn't put it down and I advise everyone to read it. This book surprises you and the plot is so exiting. I can only say positive things about this book.

Amazing!!
The best book i hv ever read.this is da first book i hv read from her collection but still i can only say she is da best writter.i got involved with da book so much tht i cant figure out did it happen when i was there or was i just imaginig it.

My all time favorite Danielle Steel
Set in some of the most exciting cities in the world (Venice, New York, San Francisco, Athens) Ms. Steel weaves a tale that lures you in, and doesn't let you go until the final word is read.

Her best book of all times.The characters come alive, you love some, you hate some, you cheer, you cry, you worry, and you laugh.Every emotion you could possibly have will come to you while reading this book.

It's a MUST HAVE for any library!

Buy it, read it, cherish it -- never loan it out, you'll never get it back! ... Read more

Product Description
Carole Barber has come to Paris to work on her novel and to find herself. A legendof film and stage, Carole has set a standard of grace, devoting herself to her familyand causes around the world. But one fiery instant of terror shatters hundreds oflives—and leaves Carole alone, unconscious and unidentified.

In the days that follow,as the truth emerges, the paparazzi swarm. A mysterious stranger quietly visits thehospital to see the woman he once loved and never forgot. Carole’s grown childrenrush to her bedside, waiting and praying—until the miraculous begins to happen. Butas a woman whom the whole world knows slowly awakens, she knows nothing of herself.Every detail must be pieced back together—from a childhood in rural Mississippi tothe early days of her career, from the unintentional hurt inflicted on her daughterto a fifteen-year-old secret love affair that went tragically wrong. Carole has beengiven a second chance to count her blessings, heal wounded hearts, recapture lostlove...and to live a life that will truly honor others—beginning with herself.

Atale of survival and dignity, of small miracles and big surprises, Honor Thyself creates an unforgettable portrait of a public figure whose hopes, fears, and heartbreaksare as real as our own. Her courageous journey inspires us all. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Boring, Too Perfect Main Character - all about HER
This is one of the worst books I've ever read. I quit after a couple of chapters and downloaded the audio book, trying to give it a second chance. I gave it my best but this is such a boring book. It's all about giving praise to the main character: Beautiful, Oscar winning, much loved actress Carole. She had the perfect second marriage, the first husband never stopped loving her, another man in Paris called her "the love of his life" - can we use more cliches now? Please, Ms. Steel?

After Carole suffers a serious injury and loses her memory, her children, assistant, ex-husband and others spend most of the book lavishing praise on her. She's beautiful, perfect, selfless, the most accomplished actress in the world, a great mother, the love of the life of at least three different men (this is repeated often). "You were always kind, decent, sincere, 'different', Carole".Anything bad that happens to Carole is someone else's fault.

When you read it you get to suffer through several chapters of her friends and family recalling events her in life, but the author had already done so in the beginning of the book.She explained about Carole's first and second marriage, her children, her assistant, her career and Oscar wins, her exceptional beauty, her first husband's affair, etc. Then the main characters repeat the information in detail "to" Carole to help jog her memory. For example, the author explains who Jason is (the first husband) and that he left Carole for a Russian model who later left him.Then Jason explains all of it TO Carole a few chapters later.

Often repeated are these gems:

Carole won the Oscar twice.
Carole looks beautiful at age 50.
Jason cheated on her and left her.
Carole suffered after first husband cheated.
Jason's second wife married him for money, then left him for someone with more money.
Carole's second husband was perfect, but he died of cancer.
Carole wouldn't take Jason back.
Jason never stopped loving Carole.
Chloe (daughter) is clingy.
Jason's second wife lives in Hong Kong (wow, thanks for telling me three times in the first half of the book).
Jason never sees his children by his second marriage.
Jason and Carole are still friends.Oh, and they are still friends.
Jason made a mistake choosing Russian model over Carole.
Carole speaks French.
Oh, and Jason "picked a major lemon" in the Russian model.
Jason and Carole are great friends "even though they were no longer married" - repeated several times (see above).

I didn't finish the book. I know how it will end, and this endless praise of the "perfect" main character is grating on my nerves. It's hard to care about the character when they are so very uninteresting.

Do NOT listen to if driving!!!
Was driving from Tampa, Fl to Biloxi, MS and the trips co-pilot decided to buy this audio book from wally's world as something to listen to while on the road.I wished he would not have done it!!The book was semi interesting at the beginning and then like a pot of warm water left on a stove it cooled and was room temperature at best.

I found myself waiting for the end of the discs for two reasons, one to finish what was started and two, in hopes the story would get better.It never got better.I am just thankful I didn't fall asleep listening to it while I drove across I-10, which is a boring butt drive by itself.

"Lamentable" about sums it up
This is the first Steele book I have ever read, and it's likely to be the last.I am surprised that the author with so little talent has achieved such wide popularity.She is abysmal at plotting and characterization.As to her writing style, it is uninspired to the point of feeling dead.You could program a computer to write a chick lit book and I bet the result would be better than this.The themes touched on here might be interesting in the hands of a more skilled writer.

Repetitive
I got the audio version of this from the library.I quickly remembered why I do not read her books.She repeats everything so many times I believe you could start reading towards the end of the book and not have missed any details.She also repeats phrases 'Never had and never would', etc.

Daneille Steel Book
Danielle Steel's Books are something I buy and give to my significant other on a regular basis, to stay in her good graces!!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
The restoration of a majestic old home provides the exhilarating backdrop for Danielle Steel s 66th bestselling novel, the story of a young woman s dream, an old man s gift, and the surprises that await us behind every closed door....

Perched on a hill overlooking San Francisco, the house was magnificent, built in 1923 by a wealthy man for the woman he adored. For her and for this house, he would spare no expense and overlook no detail, from the endless marble floors to the glittering chandeliers. Almost a century later, with the once-grand house now in disrepair, a young woman walks through its empty rooms. Sarah Anderson, a perfectly sensible estate lawyer, is about to do something utterly out of character. An elderly client has died and left her two gifts. One is a generous inheritance. The other, a priceless message: to use his money for something wonderful, something daring. And in this old house, surrounded by crumbling grandeur, Sarah knows just what it is.

A respected attorney and self-described workaholic, Sarah had always lived life by the book. With a steady, if sputtering, relationship and a tiny apartment that has suited her just fine, Sarah cannot explain the force that draws her to the mansion and its history to the story of a woman who once lived in the house, then mysteriously left it, to a child who grew up there, and a drama that unfolded in war-torn France...and to a history she never knew she had.

Taking the biggest risk of her life, Sarah enlists the help of architect Jeff Parker, who shares Sarah s passion for bringing the exquisite old house back to life. As she and Jeff work to restore the home s every detail, as one relationship shatters and another begins, Sarah makes a series of powerful discoveries: about the true meaning of a dying man s last gift...about the extraordinary legacies that are passed from generation to generation...and about a future she s only just beginning to imagine.

In a novel of daring and hope, of embracing life and taking chances, Danielle Steel brilliantly captures one woman s courageous choice to pour herself into a dream and receive its gifts in return.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (51)

Easy read, predictable
I have read many Danielle Steel books and this one was on the light side. I would rather she publish fewer books that have more substantial, less predictable story lines.

Don't waste your time.
This was my first experience with Danielle Steel, and I will not have a second.I canNOT believe that this kind of writing comes from a supposed best selling author. I am sorry to fans of Danielle Steel, but her writing is just lousy. Her book is, to me, going against everything I teach about "showing and not telling." She has weak descriptions and several metaphors are done with no taste. (Yes, there is actually a reference to Helen Keller.) I was so disappointed, but I can't not finish a book. I trudged on. The ending was ridiculous. There were probably ten two page chapters trying to highlight all the great things that were happening to the main character. It was like a little kid writing who just can't end their story because they want to tell you every single good thing that happens. The plot was decent enough, but I just couldn't handle the writing style, or lack thereof. Even the dialogue was bad.One minute Sarah is saying, "[...] you!" and the next minute she is saying, "Double wow!"It just wasn't believable.I will not be reading any more of Steel's books, and I would never recommend one to anyone that appreciates even mediocre writing. (Sorry.)

Ehhhh...
After reading a very lackluster DS book (Miracle) I decided to give her one more shot. After all, some of my favorite authors had books that were 'meh' so I figured that this book would be better. It had a different premise/storyline that sounded good, so I picked it up. It's gotta be better than Miracle, right???

... It wasn't. Ms. Steel makes the same mistake of finding ways to repeat the same thing over and over. Just when I thought DS had finally made something clear and would move on, she just repeated herself with slightly different wording. It was extremely frustrating to see what seemed like a great story idea get this treatment from Ms. Steel.

Factory ordered predictable story
I think Danielle Steele may have a contract with her book company to write a certain amount of books per her contract, so she fulfills this obligation with this kind of factory cookie-cutter book to basically tell a story without putting much thought into the story or the characters.It's a formula story with no interesting or multi-dimensional characters.The kind of book that I totally forget soon after I've finished reading it, because there is nothing that interests or intrigues me enough to remember in this story.Not recommended - basically just a way to fill up paper.

Not a literary masterpiece...
I persevered and finished this book. What a waste of time. I found myself skipping paragraphs, something I never do with a good book. It was repetitive and boring. Very disappointing. ... Read more

Product Description
Danielle Steel, America’s number-one best-selling novelist, has held millions spell-boundwith such novels as Family Album, Full Circle, and Changes. But with Secrets shetakes her readers beyond the tightly knit world of the family, into the heart ofthe nation’s most glamorous industry: television.

Here is the drama behind the creationof Manhattan, a first-of-its-kind prime-time television series produced by MelvinWechsler. Tempered by tragedy, seasoned by success, a man with a Midas touch, MelWechsler will assemble a dazzling cast:

Sabina Quarles at forty-five has managedto maintain–by dint of spunk and surgery–the body of an eighteen-year-old. Tough,spirited, and self-sufficient, she has survived twenty years in Hollywood, nevermarrying, never quite succeeding, never deigning to work in television.Yet Manhattan may bring her both the stardom she craves–and the security her very special needsrequire.

Jane Adams is an earthy thirty-nine-year-old beauty.Devoted to her children,dominated by her abusive and violent husband, forced to choose between her husbandand her acting career, Jane may find that her role in Manhattan has cost her everythingthat matters most.

Zack Taylor, the leading man, is a paragon of professionalism. Yet beyond the smooth good looks, the easy warmth, and the slick charm of the eligiblebachelor, he remains an enigma.

The charming ingenue, Gabrielle Thornton-Smith,seems to have appeared out of the blue. Beautiful, talented and on the brink of successat twenty-five, what can she have to hide?

And Bill Warwick, plucked from the ranksof struggling young actors, is now slated to be the nation’s new heartthrob.Buthe has lied about one issue in his background. Not only will Bill’s future hang inthe balance, but the success of the whole series may be jeopardized when he is forcedpublicly to confront the consequences of his little white lie.

Set in Los Angelesand New York, Secrets carries the reader behind the scenes into the making of a majortelevision series. Probing even deeper beneath the polished surfaces, Danielle Steelexplores the dilemmas both men and women, in and out of the searchlight of the media,confront today. She paints a vivid, compelling picture of a sophisticated world andthe surprisingly real problems of the people who inhabit it.

Here Danielle Steeldelineates her richest and most complex cast of characters, people forced togetherby extraordinary circumstances who must perform even when they're torn apart by theirdeepest secrets. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

LOVED this book
The characters, the storyline, a takeoff on the Dynasty/Falcon Crest /Knots Landing type tv shows.The tv movie was quite good also but enjoyed the book more.

Perfect summer easy reading!! My pet peeve with Ms. Steele is her constant repetitions, not sure if it's a word requirement thing or she may not realize what she does.
This book happily does not grate on the nerves in that respect.For me at least her characterizations are the best of any author I have read, that is what keeps me coming back for 25 years now.

Tried to give DS another shot
I stopped reading Danielle Steele long ago because I felt like I was reading the same book over & over. This was on the bottom of my "to read" pile & I decided to read it. It was the same ole, same ole, story line that DS is famous for. I like more character development. Also, I don't really care for seeing into the minds of shallow, selfish and petty people. Why anyone would fall in love with Bill in this book is beyond me. Gabby does even though he treats her horribly then has a total turn-around & lo & behold they are in love. How a stay-at-home mom can all of the sudden decide to totally leave her kids with a psycho dad was also weird to me. Several of the other "life situations" for the other characters had a false ring to them.

a big disappointment!
i love danielle steel! i`ve read ALL of her books so far.but secrets was a big disappointment to me.as far as i am concerned,ms.steel tried to change her style of writing in this book more to the kind of judith krantz or jackie collins (some explicit "parts" i didn`t like at all).simply NOT the danielle steel we like. the story itselfs is ok(gives the readers some "insights" behind the scenes of hollywood)but....
some of her books i`ve read over and over again. i am not going to touch secrets for a second time,however.

"Secrets" by Danielle Steel
Danielle Steel's "Secrets" is a story that focusses on several people who all want to succeed in the Hollywood movie industry. These people are all very different but they have this same ambition in common and also the fact that they are all involved in a new TV series that everyone is convinced will take the world by storm.

"Secrets" is a story about what people will sacrifice for Hollywood and the lies that they will tell to further their own careers in the movie industry.

The good things about this book is how the characters develop throughout it and that they all have such different personalities. I also enjoyed the romance element of the book as well.

My main criticism of this book is that the plot was fairly predictable in places. Other than that though, I enjoyed reading this book.

All in all, I found this book a enjoyable book to read.

Predictable but still a Page Turner
Danielle Steel is my favorite author and I have read a lot of her books.Although, it was predictable, is still was a page turner. If you like romantic hollywood novels this book is for you. You will read about, Jane, a woman who realizes she is married to a horny drunk, Zachory, who hasn't been with a woman in years; Bill, who is secretly married to a former actress who is now a drug addict; Gabrielle, who is not what she seems; and Sabina, the famous movie actor who seems like perfection to everyone around her but in the end she like everyone else is hiding her own secret. ... Read more

Product Description
From an Illinois prison to a modeling agency to a challenging career in New York, Grace Adams carries the pain and betrayal of her past, until she finds happiness in the arms of New York attorney Charles Mackenzie, but her new life is threatened by an old enemy who will do anything to destroy her. Reprint."Amazon.com Review
Only veteran author Danielle Steel can make dysfunction thisfashionable! In Malice, her 37th potboiler, the gloves comeoff. Life is no fairy tale for teenager Grace Adams. Thepreternaturally quiet and dowdy daughter of Watseka's favorite son,lawyer John Adams, and his lovely, cancer-stricken wife Ellen, Gracehas an ugly little secret that she's kept for four years. When herfather brutally rapes her following her mother's funeral, Grace killshim. Only 17 years old, she faces the death penalty in a town all toowilling to perpetrate the fiction of John Adams, even when it meansprison for Grace. Upon release two years later, Grace heads forChicago where life starts looking up when she finds a job as areceptionist in a downtown modeling agency. Unfortunately, Graceencounters an unscrupulous photographer and a slimy parole officer. Assoon as her parole is over, Grace escapes again, running to New YorkCity to disappear among the hordes. Working as a secretary in a lawfirm, she's asked to work for a partner. After a rocky start, CharlesMackenzie and Grace establish a comfortable routine. But when Grace isbrutally beaten by the husband of a woman in the crisis center whereshe volunteers, Charles is at her side constantly, arranging for thefinest medical care and talking her out of her coma. Love blooms asGrace slowly recuperates. Finally whole again, inside and out, Graceand Charles marry and start a family. Life couldn't get much better asCharles enters politics and Grace tends to their growing family. Butwhen tabloids release the story of Grace's sordid past and explicitphotos of Grace taken while she was drugged, their family is leftreeling, with Charles's campaign in shambles and Grace's lifecrumbling around her. Danielle Steel doesn't even pretend thatMalice is a piece of romantic fiction, but loyal fans willhappily make the transition as she charts a new course! --AlisonTrinkle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (69)

Uh.................these books actually sell?!?
I've always heard of Danielle Steel but never read any of her work. Then a box of books was given to me by a neighbor and in it was Malice, so I started to read. I was honestly stunned - the writing was absolutely the worst I've ever seen! I wanted to get out my editing pencil and correct the horrible grammar, the fragmented and poorly-worded sentences, and cross out the numerous repeat sentences. The story-line was nauseating and the ending completely predictable. It was like a glorified Harlequin romance, but not as well written as a Harlequin. I've seen better writing from middle school students, and I'm not even exaggerating. It's baffling that Danielle Steel makes money on her books. But as a friend in my book club said, "there's a lot of simple-minded people in this world and there's got to be books out there for them too." I guess that's as good an explanation as any for how Danielle Steel books actually sell.

Most Real.
I agree with all of these reviews, this book is one of the best books i have read, when i put the book down one night i couldn't get it out of my mind.i had to pick it up and keep reading.I was actually shocked to see the book being only $7.99.All i can say is this is a GREAT CHOICE! MUCH KUDOS to Danielle Steel.

One of Danielle Steel's Best Novels
'Malice' is the kind of writing that Danielle Steel does best - strong and flawed heroines dealing with serious personal life issues.This book is very emotionally heavy and involving for the reader, and is not a romance novel, so fans of Steel should be forewarned that this novel isn't her standard fare.The character of Grace Adams is well-written and many readers should find much to like about 'Malice.'

wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THIS BOOK IS A REAL PAGE TURNER.IF YOU ENJOY DANIELLE, YOU'LL LOVE THIS ONE!!!!!!!!!

Good, but just like all the other Danielle Steel books
This book is just like every Danielle Steel book you've ever read.The plot goes something like this:girl in trouble, get's out of trouble herself, finds man, the end.There isn't much that's original to this book, and I kind of think that Danielle Steel writes her book in 'Mad Libs' style.She just changes the names of the characters, changes their occupations, and the color of the book, and wham... A new hardcover to sell for tons of money.I wouldn't recommend purchasing this book, unless you want to waste a mindless afternoon with brain candy. ... Read more

Product Description
Kate is only eighteen when she meets Tom Harper, one of America's biggest pro-football stars.  They share an idyllic and glamorous first love.  But the bullet that suddenly ends Tom's career also ends their life together.  A failed suicide attempt will leave him mentally and physically disabled forever.  Kate will be left alone, heartbroken, and pregnant with their son.  Soon she will have another chance at love, but it will mean learning to let go of the past and learning to trust again. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Good but Cut the bad language!!
What is it with Danielle Steel and her filthy mouth???All of her characters in all of her books have filthy mouths.Obviously it is she that has the filthy mouth.Its the filthy languange that prevents me from giving this book a 5 star rating.

The book was a fast read because it MOVED!!It started off at a good, fast, pace, was not boring, and kept the reader's attention throughout most of it.The characters were likable and therefore illicited the sympathy from the reader.(Such is not often the case with ds books).THe story was told simply, straight forwardly and briskly.

I just wish that they Ms. Steel would for once write a book without the foul language.People with supposed "class" don't use this kind of vulgarity.

Season of Passion
18 year old Kate meets professional football player Tom Harper and they fall in love. Tom spends his money foolishly which worries Kate. When she gets pregnant he promises to change to provide for the child. It is around this time his career takes a turn because of his age. He is referred to as too old to play. When a suicide attempt goes wrong Kates live changes. This was a fab story. I really enjoyed it.

Living with secrets & afraid to trust anyone
This books shows how fame can quickly turn on a family.From always writing their accomplishments, to now hounding them to write about thier private nightmare.It shows the strengh of a woman living with a secret she feels that she can not share with anyone, bot even a new love, as if this is her punishment for what went wrong in her marriage.All in all, it's another great book by Danielle Stelle.

kindle ed. only
for the kindle version only: This book was so aggravating to read.Typos, ttypos, rypos, tyos.Get it?I can't even enjoy the story there are so many of them.

Sweet..
I liked this book more then I thought I would. Someone gave me the book and said they were given the book and they weren't into Steel's books. I was expecting a mushy lovey dovey romance novel that I wouldn't be able to finish because it was cheesy but I couldn't have been more wrong. It was romantic and dramatic. It lets you see through the eyes of a woman who has been through losing her family and her husband. All she has is her son. The story goes beyond just that and it was page turning. I will definatly be reading more of Steel's books in the future. I am not really into the romance novels but Steel brought so much more that I think I can try another. ... Read more

Product Description
With a wife he loves and an exciting London-based career, architect Charles Waterston's life seems in perfect balance. Nothing in his comfortable existence prepares him for the sudden end to his ten-year marriage--or his unwanted transfer to his firm's New York office. With nothing left to lose, Charlie takes a leave of absence from his job to drive through New England, hoping to make peace with himself.

Christmas is approaching when Charlie leaves New York, heading to Vermont to ski. But a sudden, blinding snowstorm strands him in a small Massachusetts town. There, as if by chance, Charlie meets an elderly widow who offers to rent him her most precious possession: a remote, exquisite lakeside chateau. Hidden deep in the woods, it once belonged to a woman who lived and died there two centuries before. Her name was Sarah Ferguson. And from the moment Charlie sets foot inside the chateau's graceful depths, he feels her presence, and longs to know more about the life she led.

It is Christmas Eve when Charlie first glimpses her, a beautiful young woman with jet black hair. He thinks it is a neighbor playing a joke on him, until he finds her diaries hidden away in an old trunk. As he begins to turn the brittle, dusty pages, Sarah Ferguson comes alive. Intrigued and unafraid, Charlie immerses himself in the diaries, eager to learn more about the woman for whom the house was built. Sarah's first entry is dated 1789, the year she arrived in America. Without self-pity or sentiment, she writes of her harrowing journey from her native England, having fled the brutality of her aristocratic husband. Settling in Massachusetts, Sarah finds an unfamiliar land seething with the turbulence of the Indian wars. Determined to start a new life in the vast new world, Sarah finds freedom--and danger--as she builds her home in the wilderness and meets a man who will transform her life. His name is François de Pellerin, a French nobleman adopted by Indians and drawn into the battle for the growing nation. Their fateful union is a testament to a love so powerful it reaches across the centuries. And for Charlie Waterston, caught between Sarah's world and his own, their story is a gift--one that gives him the courage to let go of his past, and the freedom to grasp a future that is right before his eyes.Amazon.com Review
Architect Charles Waterston has a job he loves, a charming andbeautiful wife, and an idyllic life in London. But when everything comescrashing down around him--his wife leaving him foranother man and his sudden transfer back to the New York home office--Charles takesa well-deserved ski vacation in Vermont. When an unexpected snowstorm strandsCharles in a small town, he takes refuge in a smallbed-and-breakfast. The proprietor, an elderly widow, also owns a familyhome in the woods, which Charles decides to rent. Soon after moving in,Charles senses a ghostly presence. While investigating in the attic oneday, Charles discovers the diary of Sarah Ferguson, who left her abusivehusband in England for a better life in the New World. Charles soon findshimself drawn to Sarah, and he even visits the local historical society inan attempt to learn moreabout her.There he meets lovely, timid Francesca Vironnet, the historicalsociety curator and librarian, who has fled France with her young daughter.Through Sarah's journals and Francesca's kindness, Charles is able to healhis heart and learn to love again.Complete with Steel's trademark poignancy but minus the glitz and glamourso evident in many of her novels, The Ghost is an outstandingread. --Maudeen Wachsmith ... Read more

Customer Reviews (127)

First time Steel reader and I look forward to more
If someone hadn't given this book to me, then I would be clueless about Steel's books. She was able to capture two different time periods in such a smooth and captivating way. I must admit that I loved Sarah's story the best. The descriptions of Shellburne Falls, past and present, made me want to hop on a plane to see and feel such a place. I would absolutely recommend this book to someone, especially a first time Danielle Steel reader like me.

Kindle Version
Please be prepared for many typos in the kindle version of this book.It appears that it was scanned and not proof read prior to publishing.If you can get past using the word DIEM for THEM and THE for DIE etc... the story is good.

Recommended For Danielle Steel Fans - Probably Not For Anyone Else
This book was a little off-beat for Danielle Steel, and involves a lonely man, a female ghost in his rented cabin, and the real-life woman who changes his life.

This is very light and enjoyable popcorn reading, good if you have a few hours to waste.Unique to this book is the fact that it's written entirely from the perspective of a male character, instead of Steel's customary female heroines.

The Ghost by Danielle Steel
The narrator was excellent and keep you on your seat. This is a great story, would highly recommend.

Interruptions
Was this book edited?! Too many run on sentences for me, I could barely follow the story because I was so blown away by the errors. The amount of sentences that began with AND or BUT were too many for me, it was distracting. This is the first D.S. book I've read and I would like to read more but if this the case all of the time, I'll pass. ... Read more

Product Description
In Rome, Isabella and her husband, Amadeo, have created an idyllic marriage and the House of San Gregorio, the most exciting name in European high fashion.But in an act of terrorism, Amadeo is kidnapped and taken from Isabella forever.

Fleeing to New York, she fights to build a new life for herself and her son, as they discover new worlds and a new life together. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

To Love Again
Isabella and Amadeo were the perfect couple, in love, wealthy and happy. Together they had built a fashion empire, the House of San Gregorio. Isabella viewed her career as one of the most important things in her life including her husband and 4 year old son. When her husband is taken from her, for her own safety she has to leave Rome for her's and her son's safety. She flee's to New York to stay with her college room mate. But will she be recognised?

I enjoyed this book! Its a nice story!

ZZZ.....
I thought this book was boring and too drawn out. It took me over 3 months to read simply because I didn't want to pick it back up! The plot was good...it was different but as with all of Ms. Steel's novels, it is centered around a beautiful rich, successful woman, Isabella, who has some sort of tragedy and we read about her sadness and depression for most of the book until she finally meets someone to help her pick up the shattered pieces of her broken heart. This book is very, very slow and I found myself falling asleep every time I read it. I would not reccommend it. She has better novels out there.

In Demand author!!
Though I haven't read this book in a long time, it gaulled me when I read some of the reviews on Danielle's writing.I've been reading her books since I was 12 years old and find them to be anything but "trash"!Those who believe she writes trash should pull their heads out of the sand and rethink their views.I have read several other readers since joining the on-line readers club and can tell you that Danielle Steel is still, by far, my all-time favorite author.I've read every book she's written except the one about her son, and the only one I did not particularly care for was Zoya.Many of the characters are very well off, but Ms. Steel portrays them in real-life situations that I believe many of us can relate to.Her books are a great escape and envelope you in their stories, catapulting you into a different world, and away from your own troubles for awhile.That describes anything but TRASH!

I loved this story...
This is such a sad story...but it's so real.You feel like you are going through what she is.Even though it's a world not many know or have experienced.This story puts you in someones shoes that are most likely so different than your own...you get lost.This is "classic" ds, and if you don't care for that type of writing, romance, tragedy, from the 80's or early 90's, you might not like this...however, in my opinion, these were some of the best books ever written.They are fun, you care about what is going on & you are hooked on them until you finish.

Enjoyed this Danielle Steel
I have been reading Danielle Steel's books for over 15 years now. Sometimes they do get a bit "all the same" with most of the characters being important, successful, beautiful people who live in "stately homes" and wear "important jewels and furs". Sometimes I think the characters are more about what they have then who they are. Despite this, I always enjoy her books - they are easy to read, romantic and make you forget about everyday life for a couple of hours while engrossed in the book. Personally I think her earlier books are more enjoyable and get more involved in the characters than some of the later books she has written.
This story is involved around the fashion industry which I found really interesting.I didn't think it was as bad as some other reviewers thought (have they read "The Klone and I" I wonder - that's her worst book by far).If you are a Danielle Steel fan you will enjoy this one. ... Read more

Product Description
On a warm May night in San Francisco, the Ritz-Carlton ballroom shimmers as a glittering,celebrity-studded crowd gathers for a charity dinner dance. The evening is perfect—until,just minutes before midnight, the room begins to sway….

In the earthquake’s aftermath,the lives of four strangers will converge.… Sarah Sloane, the wife of a financialwhiz, watches her perfect world fall to pieces…. Grammy-winning singer Melanie Freecomes to a turning point in her life and career…. Photographer Everett Carson findsnew purpose amid the carnage…and Sister Maggie Kent, a nun who works with the homeless,searches through the rubble—and knows that there is much to be done….

As the citystaggers back to life, a chain reaction of extraordinary events will touch each ofthe survivors…. Sarah discovers a crime and a betrayal, then a strength she neverknew she had. Volunteering at a refugee camp opens new worlds of possibility forMelanie. Everett will forge an unlikely relationship with Maggie, who helps him rebuildhis shattered life—and upends her own in the process. And as a year passes each discoversthe unexpected gifts in a tragedy’s wake…and the amazing grace of new beginnings.

Throughoutthese enthralling pages, Danielle Steel creates a stunning array of contrasts —fromthe dazzle of a society benefit to the chaos of a makeshift hospital, from the pamperedlives of rock stars to the quiet heroism of emergency volunteers. It is her mostpowerful and life-affirming novel to date. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

Hard to listen to
While the story line is okay, whoever is reading this for the audio version is awful. I listen to audio books every day on my commute to & from work & this is by far the worst. His voice is ok while narrating but when doing dialog for the characters, it comes across as a lisping, unemotional drag queen. Yuck.

great novel
This novel of Danielle Steele is one of her best stories.Story takes place in California, there is an earthquake that takes places and two people of different backgrounds become friends as they are helping people during the earthquake. The two people who become involved in starting a refugee camp for the survivors of the quake and the female is a nun and the male is a reporter and they become more involved than just helping people, which the nun goes through very difficult decisions that she must make in her life and they are life changing decisions.

Nasty language
I really can't understand why authors feel the need to include nasty language.Before the past two I have read, it was just a clean love story.I am apposed to this kind of language.I feel that this kind of language is just put in places just as a selling feature.Can't books be rated?

Danielle Steel
It looked like it would be a good read, the title and the description sounded good, however it just got bogged down in massive details in the first chapter.Also the characters didn't really have a specialness about them. I haven't read past the first chapter.

Not a great book for me
I decided to give another try to Danielle Steel's books and checked out "Amazing Grace". It did start out nice and smooth but then after a few pages I noticed that it is filled with a lot of unnecessary detail.

I continued reading, reminding myself that Steel is a bestselling author and there "will be more", only to find more pages about nothing.There it went like this: "the time was one thirty five and Sarah did this, then it was one forty five and Sarah did this" and so on for quiet awhile.

I could not read beyond 30 pages. This book is full of repetitious phrases and words and for me it was utterly monotonous and boring.
... Read more

Product Description
Top TV anchorwoman Melanie Adams had given up on love after a failed marriage andan unhappy affair.With her two teenage children and her television news career,she had no room in her life for a man.Then she met famous heart surgeon Peter Hallam,a widower with three children of his own.Suddenly Melanie was experiencing feelingsshe thought were gone forever.But two families (one in New York and one in LosAngeles), two exciting careers, and two strong-willed people were too much to handle. And Melanie faced a painful choice between herglamorous life in the public eye,her private life, the needs of her family, and the new family she took on.Changeslead each of them to new places, new problems, new people, and the new life theybegin. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

changes
Mel Adams has spent the past 15 years alone, since her husband left her when she got pregnant had had their twins, Val and Jess. She works hard and eventually becomes a famous TV personality.

Peter Hallam is a heart surgeon, one of the best there is. His wife has died in the past couple of years (of a heart problem) leaving him alone with his kids, Matt who's six, Pam who's 14 and Mark 17. They live in a house which resembles a shrine to his late wife Anne.

Mel is sent by her LA Network to interview Peter and she eventually meets his kids. This is where their problems begin.

I enjoyed this, it's a bit predictable yeah but still a good read...

Changes by Danielle Steel
This was a good book as all Danielle Steele books are; but not one of her better ones.

The Right Way To Happiness
I have not read many of Danielle Steel's books, but I love this one and consider it to be a favorite. What I enjoy most is not so much the love story between anchor woman Mel Adams and high profile surgeon Dr. Peter Hallam, but the lessons the story teaches about the right way to happiness.

Danielle Steel never judges women for their choices the way so-called "feminists" often do. Mel is a career woman, but she has twin girls, Jess and Val, who are completely opposite in personality. Jess is the smart, aggressive, academically successful one, while Val is luscious, a born flirt, innocently provocative, and not especially interested in school or work. In a Mary Gordon or an Anna Quindlen novel, (and these are "literary" writers, mind you) Jess would end up being a one dimensional saint, a feminist "hero" who can do no wrong. And blonde Val would end up being just a nobody -- a mindless slut or a soap opera style diva. But Danielle Steel presents Val's life as being just as important as Jessica's. Neither sister is better, they are just different.

Another important point is Danielle's attitude towards sex. This is not a "hot" romance, there are not a lot of sex scenes per se. But Danielle is different from most feminists in that she doesn't equate male desire with something hateful and brutal. This relates to Val because men "drool" over her like wolves over a tasty steak. Even when she's just seventeen or so, much older men are fascinated by her. Danielle shows that, and how Mel worries and wants to protect her. But she does NOT say that the men who do the lusting are all just pigs, NOR does she say that Val herself is a "victim" just because she's attractive. Danielle Steel makes sex seem natural and healthy, while so called "feminists" like Mary Gordon and Anna Quindlen see sex as something "nasty" that men "do" to women.

This kind of tolerance and compassion is exactly what makes Daniell Steel a huge author. She is popular everywhere, but most of all with the kinds of women feminists really don't care about -- the working class, the rural poor. Or perhaps just women who think for themselves and don't fit the elitist and self-serving feminist agenda.

Three cheers for Danielle Steel -- the people's choice!!!

ahhh so good~*~*~*~
I didnt want to put this book down for even a second.
I loved it that Mel was so courageous and leave everything that she knows and loves, her job, her house to be with the man she loves, but then Peter's daughter Pam hates her. Its so horrible that mel had to take on all the hatred that pam had after her mother died, but it turns out to be ok.And another Part, when Val found out she was pregnant, it made me sad to know that she aborted it.I think it would have been a really good and twisted story if Val would have kept it.And then at the end, when Mel gives birth to twins again!oh that was just so amazing, i wish that it would have been a lot longer so we could see how she is dealing with all the children, plus the two new babies.
This is a hard toss-up between this and d.s's star, this book was very excellent, and very nicely written.I loved it to death, 0and please read it.ITs a very lovely romantic love stoRY.

ahhh so good~*~*~*~
I didnt want to put this book down for even a second.
I loved it that Mel was so courageous and leave everything that she knows and loves, her job, her house to be with the man she loves, but then Peter's daughter Pam hates her. Its so horrible that mel had to take on all the hatred that pam had after her mother died, but it turns out to be ok.And another Part, when Val found out she was pregnant, it made me sad to know that she aborted it.I think it would have been a really good and twisted story if Val would have kept it.And then at the end, when Mel gives birth to twins again!oh that was just so amazing, i wish that it would have been a lot longer so we could see how she is dealing with all the children, plus the two new babies.
This is a hard toss-up between this and d.s's star, this book was very excellent, and very nicely written.I loved it to death, 0and please read it.ITs a very lovely romantic love stoRY. ... Read more

Product Description
In a time of war one family will lose the fight to stay together. And one woman will win the battle to reunite them. The Ring is now an epic NBC miniseries starring Nastassja Kinski and Michael York and directed by Armand Mastroianni.Amazon.com Review
An ill-fated affair between Kassandra von Gotthard, a married Germansocialite, and her lover, a Jewish writer, at the beginning of Hitler'sethnic cleansing campaign results in tragedy for Kassandra's children,especially her beautiful daughter Ariana. When her father and brotherdisappear, Ariana is arrested by the Reich. Facing imprisonment andrepeated rape at the hands of unscrupulous soldiers who desire to humblethe lovely blond, Ariana jumps at the opportunity to become a cook for akind Nazi officer. Gradually, the two are able to put the specter of warbehind them and fall in love. But calamity strikes again, leaving Arianaalone once more and running for her life. Desperately sick and pregnant,Ariana lands in New York, part of the wave of refugees brought there byrelief organizations. Sponsored, then befriended, then betrayed, by theLiebman family, Ariana slowly recovers in time for the Christmas birth ofher son. And Noel, a kind man who loves Ariana, gives her the strength tomake a life for herself and for him, which she does, finally finding truehappiness. Danielle Steel creates a tale of the phases of life and lovethat we all experience against a brutal background that hopefully will not be experienced ever again. --Alison Trinkle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

I loved it!!!
I recently purchased a kindle and this was the first book I read on my new kindle.I found spelling and grammar errors.I wasn't sure if it was just this book or if this is something I will commonly find with my Kindle.The story was perfect!The ending was amazing and the story kept me in suspense from the first chapter I read.

Gone with the Wind in Germany
I originally read this in 1981 and was impressed then. I was still in high school and felt this was a great history lesson. I decided to read it again this year and experienced Ms Steel's greatest work. The prose is linear and easily read. The characters are interesting. The plot moves swiftly and powerfully. It is the one book that set her apart in the genre. Its the reason she is the literary celebrity she is today. Everything that followed was a gradual decline.

Set in Berlin from the mid 1930s onward, it deals with sensitive and still relevant issues of Jewish/German relationships with the terror of Hitlers politics, the complications and destruction it brought. Ariana is the young yet wise heroine. Her life takes some unusual turns. Her love, loss and triumph are skillfully weaved in the pages. There is the usual luxury used-diamonds, emeralds, furs and fancy cars. There was an upper class of German society before the war that eventually became an enemy of the state as well. Nothing is sacred, and our "Miss Scarlett", Ariana(diamonds well hidden) must flee Berlin.

There was a miniseries produced in the 1990s that was forgettable. In the right hands, a big screen treatment of it could be great. Right now, Steel is looked at with disdain. If she would have just slowed down to a book every 2 years or so, she could have maintained her literary integrity. She became a product and now has a staff of "ghostwriters" who follow her formulas. The Ring was totally written with her hand. This was what he buzz was about. A few novels came after, yet her WWII epics stand out. She had took pulse of the 20th century. Sadly the patient has died.

A book to read
If you are one of those people who loves to read about life, love, adventure read this. Make sure you have weekend free because you will not be able to put this book down. Better than the movie!

Her best book
I have read every Danielle Steel book. I got hooked on her 25 years ago while awaiting my son's birth. She has had some really bad books, but this one shows her remarkable talents.

I have also seen the movie, the book is FAR better.Ariana is a captivating heroine, you can't help but cry for her losses and celebrate when she finally finds happiness.

A book worth going back to.....
I read this book for the first time when I was in high school (about 15 years ago), and I immediately became hooked on reading everything that Danielle Steel has written (with a few disappointments along the way). This book is by far one of my all-time favorites. The story is excellent, and you really feel connected to the characters during good times and bad. This book definitely left an impression on me. I am about to read it for the third time now, which is odd for me, since once is usually enough, but that shows how well-written this particular book actually is. I would recommend this book 100%. ... Read more

Product Description
Millions adored Daphne Fields, for she shared their passion, their pain, their joy,and their sorrow. But America's most popular novelist remained a closed book to theworld — guarding her life with a fierce privacy no reporter could crack.

Her lifehides a myriad of secrets. The husband and daughter she lost in a fire.The sonwho barely survived it and would be deaf forever. The victories, the defeats, thechallenges of facing life as a woman alone and helping her son meet the challengesof his handicap.A strong woman, she would not accept defeat, or help from anyone...until she found she could no longer face it alone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Touching Story

This was a very touching story. The characters in the story kept it very interesting. It was very sad Daphne a writer gets hit by a vehicle on Christmas Eve. She ends up in the hospital, and the story begins. She lost her first husband and her daughter,and was pregnant with her son. I don't want to give away the story.

Danielle Steel is a great novelist. This is a great reminder for us in real life to always appreciate what we have each day.There are no quarantees in life. we never know when our time is near. No one can predict that part of our lives. So enjoy what we have each and every day,and be thankful what the good lord has put in front of you. This is a very good book you won't want to put it down.

Once in a Lifetime
This book is an old favorite of mine. I was happy to find it online when I did as I love to read it each year right around Christmas.

Once in a Life Time
Daniellle Steele is one of my favorite Authors and this is a good , very fast read .

errors
This book is filled with errors in spelling, grammer and puncuation.The story is interesting, but the errors are distracting.

My favorite Danielle Steel novel ever!
This is my most favorite DS novel of all time.In fact, my copy of this book has been read and reread so much that the back cover fell off.During some of the most difficult moments of my own life, I've always had this book with me.

Daphne Fields is a young widow, raising her young son, a woman truly alone in the world.This is a story about love and loss and heartbreak, and finding the strength to go on living.I also highly recommend the TV-movie (available on DVD) with Lindsay Wagner, and the actor who plays Justin Wakefield looks and acts exactly like you'd imagined him when reading the book. ... Read more

Product Description
A young couple survives World War II and rebuilds their lives by benevolently purchasing family jewels from war survivors and beginning their own gem business. Reprint.Amazon.com Review
Birthdays are a time for reflection, especially for Sarah, Duchess ofWhitfield, who is awaiting the arrival of her far-flung family. Yearsearlier, reeling from her pending divorce, Sarah Thompson is force-marchedthrough Europe on the grand tour by her concerned parents. Disinterested inthe sons, grandsons, and nephews paraded before her by well-meaningacquaintances, Sarah chances upon William Whitfield, the Duke of Whitfield,14th in line for succession to the English throne. Disarmed by hiswit and intrigued by his intellect, Sarah allows William to become hercompanion in London, warning him they can only be friends. Undeterred,William dismisses Sarah's protestations that her divorce makes herunsuitable to be his duchess and finally convinces Sarah to marry him.While honeymooning in France, Sarah and William happen upon Chateau de laMeuze. Enchanted, the Whitfields buy and set about restoring the estate.But World War II looms, threatening their idyllic existence. Following thebirth of their first child, Phillip, William joins the RAF when Englanddeclares war on Germany. Reluctantly, he leaves Sarah and Phillip at thechateau. German troops, led by the courtly commandant Joachim von Mannheim,take possession of the chateau to establish a hospital, removing Sarah andPhillip to the caretaker's cottage.

When the war ends, William, after being imprisoned for three years and barely surviving the torture that deprived him of the use of his legs, returns to his family. The Whitfields pick up threads of lives strained, but not broken, by war. Soon, they are approached by others who lost everything during the war except a few secreted heirlooms. But jewelry can't put food on the table, and the Whitfields begin purchasing jewelry to provide neighbors with much-neededcash. When William jokingly suggests opening a Paris store, a legacy isborn: Whitfield's, Jewelers to the Crown. Over the next decades, whichbring three more children, two more branches of Whitfields, and the deathof her husband, Sarah is molded into a force to be reckoned with, capableof handling her willful children and a highly successful internationalbusiness with equal aplomb. Steel paints a portrait of a family, imperfectas they may be, and the powerful matriarch who reminds them of the bondthat transcends titles, money, and borders. --Alison Trinkle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

Enjoyable
This story starts as Sarah Whitfield stands waiting for her children on the eve of her 75th birthday. We are then taken through the memory of her life.

Her first marriage to Freddie is a disaster as he regrets marrying her. finds her boring and is not ready for marriage anyway. Her parents take her on a trip round Europe when she divorces him to try and get over the trauma. When she gets to London she meets William, Duke of Whitfield. She falls in love with him and they buy a French chateau. When they are parted by war Sarah waits for Williams return and her chateau is taken over by the Germans, so she spends the war years living side by side with the Germans and befriends a commander.

We are taken through Sarah's 75 years and I preferred the first half of the book, ie pre war and war years to the second half ie after war. I found Sarah children completely unlikable, but then, I think there supposed to be. Especially Philip, what an ass. I thought Sarah was pretty shallow towards the end also, she didn't like her grand kids cause they were boring and pale skinned. She felt sorry for Philip because he had to have affairs because his wife was boring, much like Sarah with her first husband. Also it was ok for Emmanule to have an affair with minister because his wife was sick and they were doing no harm! For the first 2/3 s of this book, definitely 5 stars, last 1/3 3 stars.

Depressing book.
How could anyone enjoy this book?You take a great woman and a great man, and they get married and have four kids, and the kids are all a mess.How does that work???I found the last third of the book just awful--I kept hoping someone would redeem themselves, but that was a long time coming.She should have ended the book after the War. I also found the shameless spending kind of gross.I like a good escape now and again, but these people just weren't fun.I enjoyed Danielle's older romance novels, but this was just over the top.I wish I could write mindless books like this and have them be bestsellers ...

EPIC...EXCELLENT...HEART WRENCHING AT TIMES
Superbly written over five decades of love and loss and triumph. I especially like the history of WWII era and of course the European setting. Great Read...set aside some time for this one.

Comparing The Good Life Abroad with America in the 1930s.
As all of the Danielle Steel devotees know, she writes always about the rich and famous in a never-ending series of life among the wealthy, the ups and the downs.Sarah grew up in Manhattan in the 1930s and was exceptionally beautiful; like Evelyn Hazen, she was lured into a sordid marriage which she found distasteful.Unlike Evelyn, she had parents who cared enough to take her on the 'Queen Mary' to Europe to get over the embarassment and pain of lost love.Evelyn's parents had money and a big plantation just outside town, but she was left to wallow in mental turmoil and unjust treatment by the man who took advantage of her.All Knoxville men tell lies to get what they want, and go their merry way after they have hurt young girls.Evelyn lived in disgrace but after the trial of breach of promise held in Kentucky, she eventually became the assistant to the Head of the English Department who wrote t he Harbrace Handbook, used by English teachers everywhere.

Sarah met her destiny one afternoon at a luncheon a periperial member of the British monarchy and, like the King, he gave up his office to marry a divorcee from America.There is some accounting of Wallis Simpson and the similarity.Both (or should I say, all three) were scandals, but when a man loves a woman he will give up his throne to be with her in Paris.William Duke of Whitfield was much older than the lovely Sarah but he tookher to France on the honeymoon (like Tom And Katie) and stumbled upon the perfect "dream house," a historic chateau which they renovated.Katie was a princess who married in an Italian castle after having her lover's baby girl.Sarah soon had a son to raise and another child on the way when the war intervened and William is forced to join the allied forces.

The Germans took over her castle and turned it into a medical facility as the Civil War did here in America, confiscating plantations, even the courthouse in downtown Knoxville for their wounded soldiers (the Union did).William has apparently been killed as Sarah is bereft with grief when he is not located; after the war, however, she finds him and brings him home to the chateau in France and nurses him back to health.They go on to have two more children.

This book encompasses fifty years and is a lot like A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE with the matriarch calling a family gathering on her 75th birthday to decide who gets her business dealing with jewelry.Sarah and William bought the family jewels of the war survivors to sell to the crowned heads of Europe.It is the basis of commerce, to take from the poor and sell to the rich.It goes on all the time.Here where I live, there was a well-planned burglary in which the most expensive antiques, including three large heavy mirrors were stolen from the hallways on three of the eleven floors.Had the thieves been able to get into the apartments, they wouldhave taken money, jewelry, medications to sell on the streets, and anything else they could grab and some of the old people would have been hurt.This place has bad management, and the theft did not reach the newspaper -- probably was not even reported to the police, as this is run by a "Christian" organization (more like a Hell with a monster office manager who mistreats the elderly and steals from the rent money).But Sarah lived to enjoy the fruits of her labors and had to decide who would inherit the jewels along with the family company.It is a hard decision, as Emma in Woman of Substance chose her granddaughter because of the bickering within the group-up part with dissension and finger-pointing.She had an extraordinary marriage, even though the husband was much older, as opposed to Evelyn Hazen who was afraid to marry or love any man ever again.Such is the substance of life versus fiction.

Probably my favorite Steel novel
"Jewels" is a generation spanning, romance driven, nail biting (and all the other cliches) extravaganza that involves all the standard familiar tools of romance writing: the heroine stuck in a loveless marriage... the dashing gentleman (with an accent) who saves her... a war that separates them... and so on.Outward appearances would make one believe it is your old run of the mill romance novel.But Ms. Steel succeeds in creating a very likable and sympathetic heroine, as well as, a truly chivalrous and charming leading man.Though I found the story to slow a bit when the focus was placed on the children, it is not enough to cause the novel to lose momentum (or rating stars).As I said, it is one of her best and truly enjoyable! ... Read more

Product Description
It is New Year’s Eve when the storm of the century hits northern California. In aquiet neighborhood in San Francisco, amid the chaos of fallen trees and damaged homes,the lives of three strangers are about to collide.For Quinn Thompson, what happensin the storm’s wake will bring down a barrier he has built around himself since hiswife’s death.For neighbor Maggie Dartman, it will spark friendship at a time whenshe needs it most.And for Jack Adams, a carpenter who will repair Quinn’s and Maggie’ s homes, the storm brings an opportunity: to help two people and to be repaid withthe greatest gift of all.

As three lives come together and a unique friendship isforged, something extraordinary begins to happen…Maggie, still grieving a loss, slowlycomes alive again–and Jack finally shares a painful secret he has hidden for years. But at the center of the friendship is Quinn.A man who has scaled heights of successin business, Quinn is now adrift, waiting as builders put the finishing touches onhis newest passion, a 180-foot yacht he plans to sail around the world.Lookingback at all he missed with his family while he built his empire, Quinn is consumedby guilt, focused only on escaping to the sea.But as his plans near completion,and his friendship with Maggie begins to change, Quinn faces a choice–between a safehaven and an adventure of the heart.The choice he makes will affect other livesas powerfully as his own.And it will take him on an extraordinary journey–and intoa second, terrifying storm, one that will bring him danger…or deliverance.

DanielleSteel brings us miracles big and small–the kind we are blessed with and those wegive to others.With a subtle hand and a flawless touch, she has written a novelthat soars with hope, and makes us laugh, cry, and care.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (33)

Don't waste your time
This is my fisrt review,and only reason Im doing it is so you dont waste your time with this book. In Miracle she tellsthe story of Quinn (62) a man that feels guilty because he was never there for his wife and children, and only realized that he really loved his wife when it was too late. The book goes on and on about how much she loved him, what a good wife and mother she was, and how his life is empty without her. However, that changes really fast. Four months after her death he becomes friends with next door neighbor, Maggie, a recently divorced and much younger woman (8 years older than Quinn's daughter), and Jack a handyman. Then all of the sudden he stops thinking about his wife and less than a year after the death of his wife he sleeps with Maggie. If this is not bad enough, he starts to compare his wife to Maggie and of course now he realizes that his wife was not that great. That even though she never complained when he left for months at a time,while she was home raising his children and making sure his house was clean, and his #1, Maggie is better match for him. Then in last chapters all of the sudden his daughter (that hated his guts and didn't talk to him for more than a year) allows him to take her children for 3 weeks after a simple phone call.
Of course he and Maggie live happily ever after, and he doesn't take into consideration how his daughter is going to feel about a new woman so soon after the death of her mother. A woman that is only 8 years older than her. But the part that bother me the most was how quickly he fell for this woman and how he had the guts to give her the live that he denied to his wife of 30+ years to a woman that he barely knows and that is at least 20 years younger.
This book is about a selfish man (Quinn), a doormat (the wife), a sugar baby (Maggie) that went from working to pay her bills to sleeping with a man old enough to be her father to be able to sail around the world and travel first class. I don't think this is going to be my last book but if she doesn't improve, I don't know. Don't waste your money with this book or any of her new books.

miracle fun to read
Another fine book by Danielle Steele. Fun to read and good plot that will keep yourt interest.

Meh
This was my first DS book, and I was curious to see what the hype was when my coworker gave me a bunch of her old books (this one included). I had heard many things about her and was happy for the opportunity to get a nice used DS book that I could 'try' out.

I was disappointed. Ms. Steel repeats herself. A lot. Like, over. And over. And over again. She just found different ways to repeat the same thing, and what was a plot with promise was derailed by the monotonous and repetitive storytelling.

Did I mention she repeats herself a lot?

Sorry, I just had to make a point. ;)

Dull as Dishwater
I finished listening to this audio CD and was very "underwhelmed". Danielle Steel is using the same old storylines over and over again, perhaps thinking her readers won't notice. Believe me, we do.The main characher of Quinn Thompson is so dull that after a while it's all one can do to think, Who Cares?The man is obsessed by sailing and playing liar's dice - a real bore. The storyline of the illiterate carpenter could have been an intriguing one, with some good potential for story development. Instead, Quinn teaches him to read in a few short lessons, and soon the guy is in college studying to be an architect! Pretty unrealistic. The character of Maggie is one-dimensional, as well.Overall, it's a dull, predictable story.If you want to read/listen to great Danielle Steel, go to her older works: The Dating Game, The Wedding, and Answered Prayers are among the best.

Great for Mom's on the GO...
Danielle brought it to us this time ladies.As a mother of two young children who only has time to read in waiting rooms and at night before bed, this book is written in such a way that you can jump right back into the page exactly where you left off.She draws you into the soul of each charachter and you find yourself inside their emotion and praying with them and for them; and with each turn of the page you stuble and climb with them.Great, Great, Great!!! ... Read more

Product Description

Amazon.com Review
New York Times bestselling author Danielle Steel continues to captivateaudiences with tales of love found, lost, and found again, againstseemingly impossible odds and amidst a plethora of human drama. Whenhigh-powered ad exec Samantha Taylor's picture-perfect marriage to a newsanchorman dissolves, she heads west to her friend's California ranch.Throwing herself into the simple routine of life on Lord Ranch, Sam finds anew love in ranch foreman Tate Jordan. But when Tate learns of Sam's lifein the fast lane of New York society and her high-profile marriage, heabandons her, telling himself that a mere cowboy can never make Sam happy.Heartbroken, Sam reluctantly returns to her old life in New York. Afterbattling her way back to relative independence, an unexpected inheritanceenables Sam to begin a program that teaches physically challenged childrento ride horses, encouraging their recovery. Along the way, Sam rediscoversher dreams of motherhood when an abused little boy appears on her doorstepand then love reappears when circumstances bring Tate Jordan back to LordRanch and to Sam. Don't blink when reading this one; you'll miss somethingimportant! --Alison Trinkle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

book
the book is in good conditions but it,s not in spanish edition what I think its was

One of My Favorite Books Written By Danielle Steel
This is one of my favorite Danielle Steel novels.Most of the characters in her early books were normal people, not royalty or heiresses, and Samantha Taylor is a wonderfully written character, a regular person who triumphs over all the bad things that happen to her.

I highly recommend this book to other Danielle Steel fans.

Palomino, a good read
I had read this novel before and enjoyed it. Good story line and message with hope. When a relative became paraplegic and faced loss of her dream to ride horses, I gave her this book. Then, I ordered a new copy for myself.

Great story with a message!
Another Danielle Steele hit.As usual she writes a great story with plenty of drama and the story reads great, however, I will leave the reading up to you and would rather discuss her hidden message as I see it.How great of Danielle to use her book as a forum and show the world how even in our worst moments, we can find a way to pull ourselves together and find meaning in our lives by helping those less fortunate.Danielle shows a great way that actually exist to help paralyzed children feel freedom by riding a horse.Very well told and so very true to life.This is a great story and a must read.

Favorite Danielle Steel book
I have read several of Ms. Steel's books and they usually have had some heart-wrenchingly sad plot that was upsetting at the end. This book, however, was so uplifting. Even though it was a work of fiction, it made me feel that "Yes!People are out there over-looking their own misery to help others."
This is a book that you will not forget. ... Read more

Product Description
In a novel where ancient traditions conflict with reality and the pressures of modernlife, a young European princess proves that simplicity, courage, and dignity winthe day and forever alter her world.

 

In blue jeans and a pullover, Princess Christiannais a young woman of her times: born in Europe, educated in America, worried aboutthe future of the world she lives in, responsible beyond her years.Christiannais the only daughter of the Reigning Prince of a European nation that takes its royaltyseriously–and her father has ironclad plans for Christianna’s life, a burden thatis almost unbearable.

 

Now, after four years at Berkeley, life in her father’s palacecannot distract Christianna from what she sees outside the kingdom–the sufferingof children, the ravages of terrorism and disease.Determined to make a differencein the world, she persuades His Royal Highness, her father, to let her volunteerfor the Red Cross in East Africa.And for Christianna, a journey of discovery, change,and awakening begins.

 

Under a searing East African sun, Christianna plunges intothe dusty, bustling life of an international relief camp, finding a passion and acalling among the brave doctors and volunteers.Finally free from the scrutiny ofher royal life, Christianna struggles to keep her identity a secret from her newfriends and coworkers–even from Parker Williams, the young doctor from Doctors WithoutBorders who works alongside Christianna and shares her dedication to healing.Butas violence approaches and invades the camp, and the pressures of her royal lifebeckon her home, Christianna’s struggle for freedom takes an extraordinary turn. By a simple twist of fate, in one shocking moment, Christianna’s life is changedforever–in ways she never could have foreseen.

 

From the splendor of a prince’s palaceto the chaos of war-torn nations, Danielle Steel takes us into fascinating new worlds. Filled with unforgettable images and a remarkable cast of characters, H.R.H. isa novel of the conflict between old and new worlds, responsibility versus freedom,and duty versus love.

 


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (55)

Boring and Depressing
I bought this one to read on vacation and did not even finish it because it is so long-winded and boring. Once the action began with Christina running off to join the Red Cross, I could not bear to read any more. Children being massacred is not something you want to read about lying on the beach! I love DS's earlier novels, espcially her historical ones, "Zoya" and "Jewels" come to mind, but her newer stuff is lacking.

Another great book by Danielle Steel!
Danielle Steel is my favorite author! I am trying to gather a collection, so I will be buying more books.

Just the worst
I've lost count of how many Steel books I've read, but this one was the worst. It was like I've heard and read all this on the news. Poor bored Christiana ... just has to do her part for mankind. The author just goes on and on ... okay we get the picture. Danielle Steel is a great author, but it reminded me of a recent news story that she just quickly threw a book (and the 'cause') together while the story was hot. Come on Danielle, you can do better than this.

Repetitive, repetitive, did I say repetitive?
Repetitive, dull and exceedingly predictable!!
Unless you enjoy reading about an absolutely perfect, mind-numbingly beautiful, princess who is also the tiniest person anyone has ever seen (but of course she is also perfectly proportioned and sexy all at the same time)and hearing over and over and over again about how perfect yet boring her life is in her gilded cage; don't bother with this book!

Good read
This novel is about Princess Christianna of Liechtenstein and her search to find meaning in her life as a royal and deal with the love that she unexpectedly meets.

Christianna hates life as a royal and in the palace which I initially found very annoying since her life was pretty much about entertaining, playing with her dog, riding her horse, and making public appearances which sounds a lot better than going in to the office and doing laundry and dishes after work.I found it hard to relate to her and found her somewhat spoiled a lot of the time in the beginning.

She convinces her father to let her go to Africa to help with the Red Cross and here she is happy and meets Parker, her love.They then must face the difficulties of maintaining a relationship with her duties and lifestyle.

The last half of the book was a lot more enjoyable to me and I even began to empathize with Christianna and feel a genuine liking for her but I won't go into details and spoil the plot!Just stick with it for the first part even though you may have to roll your eyes once or twice! ... Read more