The White Queen - Philippa Gregory

I'm torn. While I love the Tudor series, I didn't get that same sense of accomplishment when I finished this book. It also seemed to come to an abrupt end like The Constant Princess. It was almost as if Ms. Gregory said to herself, "Oh, I probably should finish this," and just stopped writing.

It's the story of England before it becomes a united land under Henry VII. Edward marries in secret and brings his bride to the court afterward. And all hell breaks loose from there. Brothers betray each other. Secrets are let out. There is murder, mayhem, and witchcraft to deal with.

I had a difficult time getting through this one. I found Queen Elizabeth too conniving for me. Or maybe I'm just tired of the intrigue found at England's court. I don't know. As this is the first in a new series, I may just wait to pick up the second book.

Bed of Roses - Nora Roberts

OK. I've been on a total NR kick lately. I listen to a LOT of her audiobooks in the car on the way to work. I tend to read books and then go and listen to the audiobook later.

I preordered Bed of Roses and felt that little tingle of anticipation. New release from one of my favorite authors? What's not to love, right? So I got the box from Amazon (a day early from their shipping estimate, might I add), opened it and the packaging inside, picked up the book and settled down to read. I think my husband brought me food at one point. It appeared in front of me anyway.

I wanted to love it. But I didn't. It is the story of Emma Grant and Jack Cooke. She is the florist at Vows, a successful wedding planning company and venue in CT. She creates all the arrangements for the company for their various events from weddings to baby showers to 50th anniversary parties. Jack is a friend of the group and their architect when they need space planning or additions created.

They come together in the book and it was ... predictable. I think what bothered me most was that there wasn't enough of a struggle on Emma's part. She had a fairy tale life, a fairy tale job tailored to her, and pretty much fell in love effortlessly. There was a bit of annoyance when it came to Jack's hesitation but that was it.

I liked it. I think I may have to read it again. But this is the first NR book in a while I didn't automatically love the first time out. So now I'm sad.