"Brimming with non-stop action and plenty of sexual tention!"

A WINTER SOLDIER, Cy Parks lives as a wealthy rancher in Jacobsville, Texas. People give him a wide berth because he's earned the reputation for being taciturn, remote and aloof. A few years ago, Cy lost his wife and son when Manuel Lopez, a drug lord, had Cy's house set on fire as an act of revenge. Today that same drug lord has set up a drug distribution center in a warehouse on the land adjoining Cy's property and Cy plans to put a stop to it. Lopez has a reputation to terminate not only all those who try to bring him down, but also their families. When his thugs kill Walt Monroe, Cy's neighbor, Cy realizes Walt's wife, Lisa, is in danger too. He decides to keep an eye on the lady to make sure she doesn't get hurt -- even if it means marrying her.

Lisa Monroe finds herself pregnant and a widow after only two months of marriage. Her husband, an undercover narcotics agent, didn't leave his new wife in a good financial situation and Lisa realizes she may lose all that she owns if she doesn't get help soon. When her taciturn neighbor, Cy Parks offers her a helping hand, she's grateful. Two lonely people find comfort in each other's company and a passion begins to build. With Lopez's continued attempts on Lisa's life, Cy becomes a bigger part of her life and offers her his protection -- but will he welcome her heart into his safe-keeping?

Diana Palmer's WINTER SOLDIER is the continuation of her mini-series entitled Soldiers of Fortune. Brimming with non-stop action, two unforgettable characters, and plenty of sexual tension, this story is highly entertaining.

The plot moves smoothly as the intrigue builds. Lisa and Cy are endearing characters who climb into your heart very quickly. Cy comes across as a macho, sexy and very formidable male. I'd let him protect me anytime! Lisa is more of a quiet personality, charming, feminine and sweet. They suit each other quite well. The dialogue and narration are wonderful and really go a long way to paint the story with a life-like intensity. Though this book is more than adequate on it's own, readers may wish to watch out for the next book in this mini-series, THE LAST MERCENARY, in September 2001.

Ms. Palmer once again delights her fans with yet another winner that is not to be missed!

Reviewed by Leena Hyat
Courtesy Heart Rate Reviews
Posted August 3, 2001