Vanilla Heart Publishing
Chelle Cordero

  Photo by Mark Engelman


Chelle Cordero, author of the novels, Bartlett's Rule (VHP April, 2008), Forgotten (VHP July, 2008), Within the Law (VHP October, 2008), the fabulous re-release of her debut novel, Courage of the Heart (VHP February, 2009), Final Sin (VHP May, 2009), and with pieces in two anthologies, Forever Friends by Mandinam Press and With Arms Wide Open (VHP) and is regularly published by Gannett Newspapers, SPOTLIGHT Magazine, Hudson Valley Magazine, and other national magazines and regional publications.

Ms. Cordero is also a partner in By-Lines, an editorial and photography company catering to the business community.

She lives in the New York suburb of Stony Point with her husband of thirty-three years, and her son; her daughter and son-in-law  live nearby.

In her spare time, and sometimes when she has none to spare, Chelle is an avid reader and fan of Danielle Steele, Faye Kellerman, Dean Koontz, Patricia Cornwell and other popular novelists.



  

                      

A Chaunce of Riches  by Chelle Cordero

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Bartlett's Rule by Chelle Cordero

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Common Bond, Tangled Hearts by Chelle Cordero

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Courage of the Heart by Chelle Cordero

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Final Sin by Chelle Cordero

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Forgotten by Chelle Cordero

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Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero

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Within the Law by Chelle Cordero

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Living, Breathing, Writing
Chelle's Kindle Edition Writing Workshop

Living, Breathing, Writing by Chelle Cordero is filled with weekly articles about writing, tips, trends, methods. Imagine a weekly writers' workshop and the convenience of your Kindle!

 

This is a terrific chance to learn from a pro. Until now only a few have been able to attend a writing workshop led by Cordero because of location, now so long as you have access to the internet or a Kindle you can benefit from her amazing tips. Her workshops have been so helpful.


Living, Breathing, Writing  http://bit.ly/2NYehk








 

Bartlett's Rule by Chelle Cordero


Bartlett’s Rule shares the story of Lon and Paige’s love affair; a romance filled with hardship, emotion, danger and triumph. Falling in love was never the challenge; being there for each other, knowing just what to say and making it work is the real test. Paige and Lon are “real”; they are human, they cry and they laugh. Paige has to learn to trust. Lon has to learn to be patient.

From the introduction:

“He is a pompous ass!”

When Paige Andrews is given the assignment of courting a famous writer for the publishing company she works for, she meets and entices the sexy, charming and thoroughly dangerous womanizer, Lon Bartlett.

Lon immediately takes a not-so-professional, personal interest in the young woman and pursues her. Lon is thrilled when Paige finally succumbs to his charms only to find that her haunting past sets off a terrifying reaction. Lon learns a hea rtbreaking reality - Paige is a rape survivor.

Will Lon be able to change his womanizing ways? Will he want to? Will Paige ever learn to trust again? Can they learn to love and live, together?



Reviews and Acclaim for Bartlett's Rule


Reviewed by Barbara Moroch

A fantastic read -- a love story between two seemingly very different kinds of people. Between all the tribulations that get in the way of their romance, they ultimately triumph. The story is so well crafted and the characters evoke lots of emotion from the reader. The plot takes lots of twists and turns and underscores the severity of rape crimes and the lasting damage it inflicts upon its victims. I look forward to reading the author's second novel, "Forgotten." Its preview seems to be as captivating as this book was!

 

Reviewed by Cara Somers

In Bartlett's Rule the author skillfully captures emotion and feeling in a well written and thought out novel. Its a great read as are her other novels. This author is a true hidden gem.

 

Reviewed by Malcolm R. Campbell author of The Sun Singer and Jock Stewart and the Missing Sea of Fire

At first glance, Paige Andrews' approach to celebrity writer and celebrated womanizer Lon Bartlett is reminiscent of a child's first day at the beach, a child who runs down to the incoming waves only to run back to the safety of the dunes beyond the water's reach, and then again, and then again. Indeed, she desperately wants her evolving relationship to be as spontaneous and carefree as first love.

But in looking closer, as both lovers and mad men are apt to do, Lon sees that behind Paige's engaging smile lie painful memories of man named Hal who raped her and all but took away her ability to get close to anyone again. Lon's best intentions trigger Paige's worst fears.

"Bartlett's Rule" is an easy-to-read novel about difficult-to-resolve issues for rape survivors and the prospective significant others in their lives. For Paige and Lon, sorting out the boundaries of trust and the limits of patience is a treacherous undertaking because they are very much in the public eye and because Hal's arrogant needs are not yet satisfied.

Unfortunately, Paige's dysfunctional family is also not out of sight and out of mind, providing additional twists and turns in the plot to keep readers guessing about choices and outcomes until the last page.

           

Reviewed by Bobi

When Paige and Lon met it was purely for business but it wasn't long before their hearts took control. Paige's past comes back to haunt them and they soon come to realize that the devastating effects of rape and abuse extend beyond time and place to impact more than the primary victim herself. Lon has to grapple with his own intense anger and hurt over Paige's assault. He also has to overcome misperceptions of his personal character while building a foundation of trust between himself and Paige.

Ms. Cordero skillfully tackles this topic as she poignantly tells the story of their journey to heal and develop a relationship based on strong reliance.

"Bartlett's Rule" is more than a love story; it relates a valuable lesson for both men and women.

           

Reviewed by Northern Sally

A major work, and a great story. It very much Rules!



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Forgotten is an unforgettable romance about two people who meet by chance, love by choice and are torn apart by intrigue.

Their romance survives a foreign threat to national security, kidnapping, personal tragedy and a murder attempt.

The story of Brandon Price and Caitlyn Smythe and a love which survives dangers and grows stronger despite modern day threats and personal baggage.


Reviews and Acclaim for Forgotten

This book is billed as "Contemporary Romantic Suspense," not the type of novel I'd normally read. My mother was a romance novelist, though, and even though romance and suspence aren't my cup of tea, I read, edited and enjoyed my mom's books. So I wanted to give Forgotten a chance, especially since Chelle and I are in the same wonderful publishing family, Vanilla Heart.

The opening chapters of Forgotten intrigued me. The main character, Brandon, wakes up not knowing who he is. Chelle does a great job navigating the world through the eyes of someone with amnesia. That was my favorite part of the book. I also enjoyed how Brandon keeps getting backed into corners that threaten his life and the life of the heroine, Caitlyn, because it kept me wondering how they'd escape. I was surprised I cared because I'm not much of a suspense aficionado; I don't even watch suspenseful movies for the most part. But Chelle kept me turning the pages with her writerly magic.

I also like watching how Brandon grows as a character, as a man. At the beginning of the book, with and without memory, he's blind to the fact that he's basically emotionally stunted. However, he has a real reason to deal with this--and when he does, it's interesting to see how. There was a moment toward the end of the book--a moment related to Caitlyn's family property--that demonstrates how far he's come. It moved me.

If you like Danielle Steele and Patricia Cornwell, you will enjoy Forgotten.

Kate Evans, author of For the May Queen and the upcoming Complementary Colors

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Within the Law
by Chelle Cordero


Tom gave up on ever falling in love again the day that he buried his high school sweetheart and fiancé. He started a career in law enforcement just so that he could find her murderer and rapist.

Just when he is about to see justice done, he meets Alli Davis-the defense attorney for the murdering rapist who took his love from him.

Alli and Tom share a mutual and passionate attraction but Alli refuses to make any commitments. She is hiding a huge secret. Tom falls in love with her and pursues her despite a false arrest, kidnapping and attempt on his life.




Forgotten and Within the Law are two highly sensual, romantic and edge-of-your-seat tales. Although Forgotten and Within the Law are two separate stories, they are woven together by a common thread-cousins Caitlyn Smythe and Tom Hughes. Some favorite characters appear in both novels and allow the reader to become totally absorbed into the family.


Reviews and News for Within the Law

"Eight years after the abduction and murder of his fiancé, Tom Hughes throws back his last drink pondering the next day's hearing. Her killer had been found. Consumed with rage and wanting to confront the man who took his future away, Tom leaves the bar and stumbles upon an attractive well dressed woman named Alli whose badly bloodied her knee after twisting her ankle. Uncertain why such a woman would be found so late in a rather dangerous part of town, Tom comes to her aid. Though cautious of a complete stranger wanting to help her, Tom insists ensuring that Alli does not suffer the safe fate as his fiancé years before.

At the hearing, Tom begins to think perhaps his life can finally move on with the killer to be tried and a new woman in his life. His dreams quickly unravel when he learns that Alli is the killer's attorney. Taunted by the man as they leave the courtroom, Tom beats him so badly the killer is hospitalized and later found murdered. With his life turned upside down, Tom is now accused of murder and Alli must prove his innocence.

Chelle Cordero begins Within The Law with a great setup of murder, betrayal, and plot twists that engage the reader immediately. As I read the opening chapters, I was reminded somewhat of Scott Turow's Presumed Innocent. Cordero then takes a turn I didn't expect, and the opening story arc closes. In Ken Follet style, the novel subsequently explores the tragic sequence of events keeping Tom and Alli from being together. The novel is, therefore, less courtroom murder mystery and more star-crossed love story.

Cordero's writing and plot is engaging and entertaining. One is drawn to Tom and Alli and their story just as they are drawn to one another. The dialogue is real and crisp and the novel moves quickly. Within the Law makes a great summer beach read."

Todd A Fonseca,
author of The Time Cavern







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Courage of the Heart by Chelle Cordero

COURAGE OF THE HEART shows us that sometimes love is the only cure for the very deepest of emotional wounds.  Adam Sherman has remained quiet about his scandalous past and is comfortable with his reputation as a womanizing and dedicated bachelor.  He is an expert in the field of computers including programming, networking and hacking.  At twenty-five years old, he is content with his management job at a local Internet Provider.

Davie Prescott is twenty years old and a college student who is working part-time at the same Internet Provider where Adam is employed.  She was raised in a very close knit family of aunts, uncles and cousins. She and her widowed father are very close.  Adam is attracted to Davie, but he shies away from her innocence because he feels his shameful past is too harsh for her existence.  Adam finally shares his darkest secret with Davie and is amazed to find that she doesn´t turn away from him.

But when Adam’s past catches up to him, he soon learns that there´s a lot more at stake than just his nightmares.  Adam is prepared to give Davie up if need be in order to protect her until he learns that she´s got a secret of her own.  With Davie´s help, Adam learns a courage that is born of love, courage of the heart.

The story of the two lovers takes a series of unexpected and fast paced turns where lives, sanity and love are put in jeopardy.  Their commitment to one another results in a spirit that binds them together and helps them to overcome physical and emotional dangers.



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Reviews and Acclaim for Courage of the Heart


Fantastic re-release of Ms. Cordero's Debut Novel, Courage of the Heart! Revised, updated, and skillfully expanded, Chelle gives us another amazing story...nine years later...and well worth the wait!

CL Borden, author and reader


I've been lucky enough to have been selected as Beta Reader on each of Chelle's VHP novels so far, and Courage of the Heart does not disappoint! She's incredibly skilled at creating characters readers feel they know intimately, connect with, and enjoy!

Michelle Martin



Final Sin  



Final Sin
by Chelle Cordero

ISBN 978-1-935407-13-3



Deputy Sherriff Commander Jake Carson has his hands full with the investigation of a brutal multiple homicide, a troubled son and a vindictive ex-wife when he meets young, free-spirited paramedic Julie Jennings. He is immediately drawn to her and finds himself unexpectedly falling in love. Julie finds herself just as drawn to him.

When Julie becomes the subject of an obsession, it puts both of their lives in extreme danger...

Romance...danger...adventure...suspense...another great Chelle Cordero novel sure to grab readers from many genre!


Suspense/Thriller, Romance;  Reviewer: Lototy, Rating: 5 Cups

This story nearly vibrates with tension, and the impending doom will have you on the edge of your seat. The cast of characters is brilliantly depicted, each given both good and bad qualities that really enliven them to the reader. You actually get into the minds of several characters, and not just Jake’s and Julie’s. Final Sin is a real nail biter, and entirely too good to pass up, a true testament to Chelle Cordero’s talent...

To read the entire Coffee Time Romance Review..

http://coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/Finalsin.html


Fran Lewis says -
This is a five star book by a five star author!

The unsung heroes that work diligently to save lives every day are the heroes and heroines of this masterfully crafted murder mystery. EMT’s, medical examiners and the coroner’s office often work together to solve homicides and other crimes. Their work often goes unnoticed by the public. But, in this masterfully crafted and written novel, their story is finally told.

Emergency Medical Technicians are trained to handle most medical emergencies that they encounter. Their presence is often needed not only at accident scenes but crime scenes too. Their presence makes a crucial and critical difference to an injured victim. All too often these first responders, paramedics and police officers are not prepared for what they might find in some of the situations they encounter.

The opening chapter introduces the reader to three vital and major characters who lives drastically change at the gruesome and horrific scene they are forced to assess in the opening scene of the book.

Throughout the novel the author brilliantly describes in detail the process used by a coroner’s office and medical examiner to find clues to help solve murders. Her understanding of police work and description of the process used by the police to assess and process evidence from a crime scene help the reader understand how difficulties in working in law enforcement.

The suspense is electrifying and the impending disaster keeps the reader on edge until the last page. Matt and Jake both vie for Julie’s loyalty and trust wanting the other out of the way. Not until Julie becomes a victim of this killer do they ban together to stop him before it is too late.

Just who the killer really is and what reasons does he have for killing these innocent women and trying to make Julie his, this reviewer will not reveal. You need to read this Five Star novel by Chelle Cordero to find the answers to reasons behind the killer’s actions. Just what other secrets did Jake and Julie have in their past? Does she get saved and more will only be answered when you read the Final Sin.



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Hostage Heart by Chelle Cordero

Life was hard after the hurricanes swept through, destroying her parents' home and livelihood...Deanna did the only thing she could do. She moved to New York City, found a job, worked hard, scrimped and saved to send what little she could manage back home to Louisiana to her parents.

An errand for her boss - a chance encounter with a crew of bank robbers - a kind man who tried to help her and deserved her courageous help in return...

But he wasn't the man she thought he was...no, he was so very much more!


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Reviews and Acclaim for Hostage Heart




Deanna Blair moved to New York City to make more money so she could send it home to her parents whose home and business were ravaged by the hurricanes. Then Deanna is accidentally caught up in the middle of a bank robbery and taken captive. One of the brutal men seems different from the rest and he keeps Deanna safe from the other men and she is very attracted to him. When the police find and raid the group, the man she has feelings for is shot down in front of her. Now Deanna's entire life has been turned upside down. But there is more to the story than even Deanna knows!

This is a highly emotional and stressful read. My heart pounded and I cried for Deanna in several places in the story. Deanna is truly an innocent in all of this and now she will likely live with the aftermath from the kidnapping for years to come and no one seems really concerned about helping her get on with her life except one man but can she trust him? Deanna's heart has been broken, her innocence shattered, and she doesn't trust her instincts anymore. How does she move forward with her life? I found the first part of the story, when Deanna is with the kidnappers, very hard to read and I was tempted to put the book down. I kept going though and I am very glad I did, Deanna proves to have a fighting spirit and the rest of the book about what she does after the incident is wonderful! Chelle Cordero is an author I will keep my eye on; her story telling ability is riveting and she has a gift for making even unlikable people likeable! If you want a suspense filled, emotion charged story, then read Hostage Heart!

Overall rating:  4 Hearts
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Steph B.
August 28, 2009





Deanna Blair works in a bookstore and is from Louisiana. She is living and working in New York so she can help to support her parents.

Ryan Hunter is a hot shot FBI agent who has no idea that his life is about to change in a very drastic way. He is instantly attracted Deanna.

When Deanna goes to pick up a large sum of money for her employer at the local bank, she is less than enthused. She is never comfortable with carrying large sums, but she needs the job and so does so anyway. One morning when she goes to pick up the money, the bank she is in is robbed, and instead of handing over her purse she fights with the bank robbers. In the ensuing scuffle she gets taken as a hostage, and discovers that the handsome man she was trying to help is in cahoots with the bank robbers. Needless to say Deanna is less than happy. Fortunately for her Ryan is not all that he seems, and her intuition tells her that he is a good man. When she sees him shot in front her, and is told he has died, she is devastated. Deanna tries to get on with her life, but when she discovers she is pregnant with Ryan’s child, she knows her life has been irrevocably changed by her two encounters with the handsome Ryan. What will she do when Ryan comes back seemingly from the dead? Will she accept his story, or will she walk away?

I enjoyed reading Hostage Heart. It is a well written story with characters that are realistic. While it was hard at times going through the ups and downs in Ryan and Deanna’s relationship, it certainly kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next. The descriptions of Louisiana, and Deanna’s Cajun heritage were obviously well researched and gave the book a great ethnic flavor. I especially liked the parts about Deanna’s grandmother. For those who love to read about sexy FBI agents saving damsels in distress, this book is definitely for you!

Regina
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More





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A Chaunce of Riches by Chelle Cordero

The day that Ben Johnson was hired as a bodyguard for some rich widow and her kid, he never expected to be working for the woman who had abandoned him just when he had needed her the most so many years before. Damn it all, he still wanted her.

Samantha Chaunce never thought she would see him again. She never thought she would have to explain why she married the rich man over the man she had sworn she once loved. And she certainly never expected to find out that her rich husband had been murdered and fingers were pointing to her former lover.

Acclaim for A Chaunce of Riches




A Chaunce of Riches is a great read full of both pros and cons. Ms. Cordero starts the story off with enough tension in the air to crackle the pages, but it soon tapers down just a bit. However, it was not long before I found myself wrapped up in the exchange of emotions and sensual pull between Ben and Sam. When the suspense continued to build to an almost breaking point, it made this good story that much better. This is the type of novel that will have a reader knowing who the bad guy is but unwilling to put the book down, and you will not want to because you will miss out on a skillfully written story!

Danielle
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More

 







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Common Bond, Tangled Hearts by Chelle Cordero

Layne Gillette’s world is turned upside down when a man she has never met shows up to lay claim as the father of her 6-year old son.

Justin, the victim of a fraternity prank, and Layne, the subject of a forced insemination, have produced a beautiful child that they are both willing to protect... at all costs.

The two parents realize they can love each other, but when Layne’s abusive “ex-husband” shows up, they are torn apart by danger, kidnapping and lies. Justin won’t give up until Layne is returned to him. Layne uses her newfound strength, courage and knowledge to defy Charlie’s ugliest demands.





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