COME THE SPRING (C)

Julie Garwood's stunning New York Times bestseller For the Roses has become a phenomenon: the much loved tale of the Claybornes of Blue Belle, Montana, inspired a trio of delightful novellas, and a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, Rose Hill. In Come the Spring, the Clayborne legend continues -- as Julie Garwood weaves together their magnificent tale with a touching new love story.

Adam, Douglas and Travis Clayborne are each happily married, and their beloved Mama Rose is overjoyed with the wonderful ladies who have joined the family. But all the Claybornes wonder on which side of the law their restless brother Cole will land. Now, Julie Garwood brings her irresistable mix of heartwarming wit and thrilling sensuality to a memorable Clayborne reunion...and at last we meet the elusive stranger who has slipped in and out of their lives, a man who lured Cole Clayborne into a shadowy chase, and who will now bring unexpected turns to Cole's uncertain future.

Daniel Ryan is a hard man set on vengeance, a U.S. marshal driven by tragic, heartbreaking loss from the past. His quest leads him to a beautiful young woman, the sole witness to a terrible crime -- and the only person who can help him. But the lawman finds that love is perhaps the greatest risk of all as he unwittingly draws her into the line of fire. The power and drama of their blossoming passion, entwined with the spirited adventures of the Claybornes and the surprising choices of the wayward Cole, make Come the Spring as poignant as it is unforgettable.

In the wonderful storytelling tradition of all her acclaimed Clayborne tales, Julie Garwood brings to life "a family whose love and loyalty will truly inspire" (Romantic Times). Come the Spring confirms once more why she "attracts readers like beautiful heroines attract dashing heroes" (USA Today).

With more than 13 million books in print and 13 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, Julie Garwood has earned a solid position among fiction's established stars. It's clear why she has risen to the top -- her talent as a novelist keeps readers laughing, crying and thoroughly entertained with each new book.

One force that shaped Julie's life and work is her Irish heritage. "The Irish are great storytellers who relish getting all the details and nuances of every situation. Add in the fact that in my family I was the 6th of 7 children. Early in life I learned that self-expression had to be forceful, imaginative and quick," Julie says.

Julie Garwood's phenomenal success is not only a result of her outstanding writing ability, but also her determination. Her early elementary education was interrupted by illness, and as a result, she didn't learn to read until she was almost 12 years old. She's been a champion of literacy ever since -- as a tutor, a classroom storyteller and an author of two children's books. Julie visits schools as often as possible to talk to children about the joys and rewards of reading. "I treasure the written word," she explains, "and I want everyone to love books as much as I do."

Julie Garwood's first historical novel, Gentle Warrior, was published by Pocket Books in 1985. Since then, her popularity among readers has grown with each new publication. She is currently working on her next novel.