Rose Quartz by Sandra Cox is the sequel to Boji Stones and although the publisher says it can be read alone, I don’t recommend it. This story builds from where Boji Stones left off and includes all of the main characters from the first book. Both of the titles come from a legend that is the prelude to these tales. The legend tells of five women centuries ago blessed by the gods and given amulets forged with a “gift.” The main character in each of these books is the woman who now possesses the amulet in modern times and the man who enters into her life and brings her peace and fulfillment. But there are others who have learned of these amulets and are determined to steal them and take the “gifts” for themselves…

Isabella Tremaine, Bella to her friends, possesses the amulet of beauty and creativity. And she knows how to wield the power of her amulet to get her way. But she has never met a man like Hank McHenry, the man who raised Maureen Sinclair, the possessor of the healing amulet (Boji Stones). Hank seems immune to her beauty. Yet, when someone starts following Bella and she feels threatened, Hank appears to guard and protect her. Even if she can never have him, she’ll take every moment she can get with him and his warmth. She’ll think about his protection for although she likes a protective man, Bella can take care of herself. Will Hank’s protection even be enough? Can Bella and Hank stop the evil people who are determined to take the amulet regardless of who is hurt or even killed?

I enjoyed Rose Quartz just as much as I loved Boji Stones. These are marvelously creative stories of powerful, independent women who must fight to retain their heritage and learn to accept the help and concern of the men who love them. As the series builds the women are also learning to accept and bond with the other women who have the other amulets and form a strong sisterhood. In this story, Bella and Hank are downright stubborn people who are determined to win at all cost and never show weakness. It could cost them each other and may cost them someone’s life. The bad guy is so evil and obviously insane that surely they can prevail. The story starts not long after the first book ends and picks up the action right away. Ms. Cox then keeps the reader enthralled in the story to the end. I am so thrilled with this series. I can’t wait for the next book. I highly recommend Rose Quartz to anyone who loves romantic suspense at its best and especially romantic suspense with a paranormal twist!

Reviewed by: Stephanie B.