Returning to her childhood home, Olivia Bartlett would like to think she has left the past and it’s painful, ugly memories behind. She doesn’t question why her step-father, Walter left his house to her and the bottom line is, it doesn’t matter except it represents the chance to truly bury the past. Her intent is to return, settle what remains to be settled and level the house that holds nothing but raw and unspeakable memories. Olivia’s plans, however, quickly become complicated when she finds her childhood friend, Tucker Hawkins, in residence at the house. Not only has Tucker grown up, he’s grown into a very handsome and desirable man. Now a deputy sheriff who believes he also holds title to the crumbling abode he complicates Olivia’s life in more ways than one. Not only is her title to the house in dispute, she finds herself drawn to Tucker in a way she never thought possible. But Olivia cannot commit to Tucker. The things that happened in that house keep her from moving forward to a life with Tucker. 

Tucker has left a bad marriage and hoped for a new start in Strong Springs. With the deed to his Uncle Walter’s house, he begins a new job as a deputy in town. Strong
Springs has little to offer besides a long history…well little except for its secrets. Secrets perpetuated by the mayor and his cronies. They too want Walter’s house and will do anything to take possession of the house that holds far too many of their secrets.  

Strange things continue to happen at Walter’s house. People disappear, tunnels seem to appear out of nowhere, and a mysterious journal appears and disappears with that can only be Walter’s ghost because he is, after all, dead. 

Of all Melanie Atkins’ stories this reviewer has read, HAUNTED MEMORIES is the most chilling. With strong gothic overtones, each page leaves the reader yelling at Olivia, “Don’t go there,” “Don’t open that door,” “Run Olivia, run as fast as you can.”  Moreover, will feel utter frustration when she does open that door and she doesn’t run. This reviewer felt chills each time Olivia ventured down another flight of stairs or found a hidden panel. Her determination to put her past and the cruel and unspeakable acts committed by her stepfather, Walter, behind her makes her a character to admire.  

Tucker isn’t your typical sexy hero. He is a solid, compassionate, and caring man and perfect for Olivia. He’s the kind of man who endures no matter what happens around him. Astute as to why Olivia will not commit to him, he offers her warm and unconditional love and support, especially when he puts aside his own feelings so he can give Olivia the things she needs most. 

With a dead body around each corner, dark and scary places, one does not need a Walter or his ghost to make for a scary story. Yet Ms. Atkins gives her readers that and more. This reviewer had a very difficult time putting HAUNTED MEMORIES down out of a combination of Ms. Atkins’ wonderful writing style and a great story. The reader need not have spent time in a cold, dank, and musty tunnel or even have a fertile imagination to know what it feels like. Ms. Atkins brings the feelings inherent in that kind of environment to life as well as how good it would feel to be safe in Tucker’s arms. 

HAUNTED MEMORIES shows once again the breadth of Ms. Atkins’ talent. She continues to delight with each story. 

March 2007

© Love Romances, 2001-2007. All Rights Reserved