Book Review: Aboard the Wishing Star
Written by: Debra Parmley
Desert Breeze Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-61252-243-2
4 Stars

Parmley whisks the reader away on a shipboard romance with "Aboard the Wishing Star." Kara Worth wins a cruise and takes her best friend, Vivian with her. After meeting Nate, Kara can't help but wonder if wishes really do come true.

"Aboard the Wishing Star" is a contemporary romance with suspenseful elements set in the picturesque Caribbean. Kara wins a trip to celebrate New Year. She travels from her home in Ohio, meets up with her friend, Vivian, and intends to enjoy her getaway. However, obstacles soon arise. Kara's inconvenienced when her luggage comes up missing and her boss decides to hound her, even though she's on vacation. When Nate encounters Kate, he challenges her on every level to step out of her comfort zone. Is Kate and Nate's attraction a shipboard romance or the foundation of a lasting relationship?

Parmley's writing is easy to read and engages the reader by involving the five senses from the sensual locales and vivid scents of the area to the warm, enticing caresses shared by Nate and Kara. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the romantic ambience of cruising on ship.

The most rewarding aspect of the story was the rich characterization of Kara and Nate. Kara's ready to start a new chapter of her life. She's brave, yet a little timid, but she knows her mind. Nate is loyal, honorable and steadfast. He's the spark in Kara's life that allows her to test her boundaries.

There were several minor spelling/punctuation errors throughout, but they did not take away from my enjoyment of the story.

The novel is warm/sensual for romance readers. Kara and Nate share intimate caresses and touches. "Aboard the Wishing Star" is a wonderful romantic escape that makes the reader believe the power of love can overcome anything.