Diana Palmer - Winter Roses Review

Ivy is only 18 and already she has experienced more trauma than any young person should face. First, is her sister's betrayal. Why would Rachel spend years spinning lies turning their father against Ivy? Why did he disinherit her and turn her into the household servant?

The second trauma comes two years later when Ivy and Rachel's father dies, leaving Ivy with nothing. His death not only didn't answer any questions, it contributed more to the swirling mysteries surrounding Rachel's life. Ivy was forced to find a part-time job to work her way through college. But she is determined to make a better future for herself, if only Rachel would not hang over her shoulder.

An innocent message to the local baker turns mystery to deadly threats, exposing drug trafficking in Ivy's peaceful little town. When Ivy's sister dies, she finds a notebook that turns her world upside down. Now her life is in danger and she is overwhelmed. She is forced to seek refuge with her enemy, her best friend's older brother--Stuart.

The western Cinderella-like ending is gratifying and heartwarming. The sun finally shines on Ivy's clouded life.

This book makes an excellent addition to the growing saga of Diana Palmer's Jacobsville, Texas series.