Wild Heather
Following the death of  their beloved father, the lovely Martin sisters of Salina, Kansas set out to fulfill a promise each made to their father to pursue a dream.  Wild Heather, the first offering in Millie Criswell's Flowers of the West trilogy, follows the compelling story of Ezra Martin's eldest daughter, the spirited Heather. Eager to begin a career as a big-city illustrator, Heather soon finds that the San Francisco newspaper business is considered strictly man's domain.  Though equipped with plenty of gumption and natural talent, she finds rejection at every turn.  Determined to stay and see her dream accomplished, Heather answers an advertisement for governess for two small children.  She is elated to discover that the position is in the home of the owner of San Francisco's largest newspaper.  Brandon Montgomery's well-protected heart is in danger the first moment he sets eyes on the beautiful young woman romping in the parlor with his children.  Bitter and calloused from his wife's abandonment, Brandon is resolved never to allow another female to stir his emotions again.  In reaction to this enchanting lady's effect on him, he demands that Heather leave immediately.  Only upon the perceptive intervention of his mother and the imploring looks of his children does Brandon concede and allow Heather to remain. Heather adores her young charges and is taken by surprise by an overwhelming attraction to their father.  Knowing that Brandon is engaged to be married, she hides her feelings for him and her strong dislike for his high-society fiancee. When the opportunity arises to submit her illustrations to Brandon's paper anonymously, Heather seizes the moment.  Waiting for the time when she can tell him that the drawings are hers, Heather is unaware that the breakup of Brandon's marriage was caused by his wife's need to have a career outside of their home. In spite of the walls Brandon has put up to protect his heart, Brandon finds they are no match for the innocent charm and unreserved passion that he finds in Heather's violet eyes.  For the first time in a long while, Brandon once again feels the stirrings of desire. Deception, betrayal, greed and murder plague the delicate, blossoming affection between these captivating lovers.  But in the end they thrive, nurtured by the healing power of love. It is the unique characterizations that set Millie Criswell's novels apart from the rest.  This terrific first book in the Flowers of the West trilogy is a sure hit with fans of this talented and imaginative author. Lively and deliciously sensual, the very essence of Wild Heather entices the reader from first page to last! Wild Heather showcases Ms. Criswell's special gift for humor.  A must read! Millie Criswell is well on her way to becoming a prominent name in the romance genre!Lori Wright  --Copyright © 1994-97 Literary Times, Inc.  All rights reserved--FromLiterary Times