2006-05-14 Only one story worth reading

"Somewhere in Time" is an erotic anthology containing 2 stories of time travel.

Now and Forever by Julia Templeton
PI Alexandria Drake is taking photos of a cheating spouse holed up in the famous and rumoured to be haunted Rathbone Manor when she is thrown through time to solve the double murders which occurred in 1817. Assisted by the ghostly Devon (the recently deceased) the pair try to catch the killer before he has the opportunity to kill Christian, Devon's younger brother. Unfortunately Christian feels Alex is somehow involved in Devon's murder, and despite her claims she is only at the manor to find a job, she appears to be the worst maid he has ever come across.
When Alex is made aware she can only return to her own time by solving Devon's murder and saving Christian from a similar fate, she still falls in love with Christian despite realising they will never be together. Not knowing how he really feels about her (despite their passionate nights together), does she give up her chance of ever returning to her own time for a man who may not even return her feelings?
4 stars

Tears of Amun by Jordan Summers
In 1825, Egypt is a veritable hive of archaeologists, some of which include 18 year old Charlotte and her parents. Drawn to all things Egyptian, Charlotte has secretly loved the ancient image of a Pharaoh, King Amasis, for over 3 years. When she finds a necklace during a dig, the "Tears" of Amun", she clasps it around her neck and finds herself whisked into the past, finding herself not only in an ancient world she has yearned to visit, but also into the arms of her Pharaoh.
Amasis is well aware of the prophecy, "he who gazes upon the one wearing the Tears of Amun shall go on to rule the kingdoms of Egypt"; however he adds his own stipulation; he will have the wearer of the necklace at his side. Wooing his new bride, it appears fate has not finished with the pair. Unclasping the necklace to give to her beloved husband, Charlotte again finds herself flung through time back to 1825 with no chance of returning to the man she loves.
2 stars

JT's offering was far more entertaining than "Tears of Amun". In fact I read in absolute disbelief that an 18 year old gently reared inexperienced young woman would fling herself with such enthusiasm and lack of inhibition into a deeply sexual relationship with a man at least 10 years older. I must say I found the time travelling necklace more believable than Charlotte. I love the Atlantean Quest series by JS and was left pretty disappointed with her story. On the other hand, JT maintained the same high standards I have come across before and I will certainly continue to purchase her future works. Unfortunately I can no longer say the same for JS.