Coming Soon: Anticipated Releases for January 2011

Okay, one more time for the hell of it,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

It's a new year, and a new crop of fabulous reads are waiting to enchant the heart and delight the spirit. And as you hopefully can't tell, I've partaken in a few spirits myself last night, so excuse the occasional derailments of my train of thought =)

Anyway, this is a specifically amazing month for release. I am so excited to see that some of my favorite authors (and some new-to-me and debut authors) will supply us with the goodreads.

My fav, Victoria Alexander is coming out with a new release I am bound to devour in 2 seconds flat, Beverley Kendall will follow up her amazing debut book with the heroine's brother's story, my love-Sabrina Jeffries will give us another Hellion to mush over as she gets her prince charming, and a few others have plenty in store.

Here are the Anticipated Releases for the month of January 2010

 
January 3rd- This is release day for debut author Vicky Dreiling! I read the blurb and excerpt and had to have more. Can't wait till this is in my TBR pile. A classic prose! I can't wait to see the newbie's spin on it.

'How To Marry A Duke' by Vicky Dreiling

[Read an excerpt: here]

"Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne is a man with a mission: find a wife he can tolerate as long as they both shall live. No love is necessary—nor desired. But how to choose amid a dizzying array of wealthy-yet-witless candidates? Hire London’s infamously prim and proper matchmaker. Then pretend she’s not the most captivating woman he’s ever met . . .
Helping a devilish Duke create a contest to pick his perfect mate is the kind of challenge Tessa Mansfield relishes. Her methods may be scandalous, but she’s determined to find the notorious bachelor more than a wife—she’ll bring him true love. Yet when Tessa watches the women vie for the Duke’s affections, she longs to win his heart herself. And after a stolen kiss confirms Tristan’s desire, Tessa knows she has broken a matchmaker’s number one rule: never fall in love with the groom."Source

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January 4th- A good day to pick up some books. Adrienne Basso has written some great stuff and I can't wait to check out this latest from her; and Beverley Kendall made an instant fan out of me with her first book, so I am panting to see what else she has in store.

'A Little Bit Sinful' by Adrienne Basso

[Read an excerpt: here]

"A Little Bit Unexpected . . .

Eleanor Collins knows that her beautiful younger sister will have wealthy, powerful men falling at her feet in her first London season. But Eleanor is surprised to discover that one man's attentions are utterly focused on her.

A Little Bit Forbidden . . .

As delicious as Sebastian Dodd, Viscount Benton, finds the eldest Collins daughter, his true motive is darker than mere seduction. Until he has avenged his mother's death, he will be unable to think of anything else. Or so he believes, until he takes his first taste of Eleanor's inviting lips, and finds his mind-and his body-utterly consumed..."Source

'A Taste Of Desire' by Beverley Kendall

[Read an excerpt: here]

"She Challenged His Pride

Lady Amelia Bertram may have a reputation as the most brazen beauty of the ton, but she shocks even herself when she accidently—and loudly—derides one of society’s most eligible bachelors in the middle of a crowded ballroom. The timing of her faux pas couldn’t be worse, for her father is seeking someone to take her off his hands that very night…

He Challenged Her Willpower

But when Thomas Armstrong overhears the so-called “Lady” Amelia slandering his sexual prowess in public, he cannot help but accept the dare implicit in her words. To her father’s great delight, he offers to take her to his secluded country estate—properly chaperoned, of course—to teach the girl a lesson in ladylike behavior…"Source

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January 18th- Oh yes! More hellions please! This is the first female 'Hellion from Halstead Hall 'book in this series by Sabrina Jeffries and promises to be a doozy! If you've The previous two books, you already know the fire and spice Minervra and Giles are working with and probably are as excited as I am! And why not pick up Delilah Marvelle's latest release from her Scandal series?

'How To Woo A Reluctant Lady' by Sabrina Jeffries

"Lady Minerva Sharpe has the perfect plan to thwart her grandmother's demands: become engaged to a rogue! Surely Gran would rather release her inheritance than see her wed a scoundrel. And who better to play the part of Minerva's would-be husband than wild barrister Giles Masters, the very inspiration for the handsome spy in the popular Gothic novels she writes? The memory of his passionate kiss on her nineteenth birthday has lingered in Minerva's imagination, though she has no intention of really falling for such a rakehell, much less marrying him. Little does she know, he really is a covert government operative. When they team up to investigate the mystery behind her parents' deaths, their fake betrothal leads to red-hot desire. Then Minerva discovers Giles's secret double life, and he must use all the cunning tricks of his trade to find his way back into her heart."Source

'Once Upon A Scandal' by Delilah Marvelle

[Read an excerpt: here]

"Lady Victoria Jane Emerson left behind her girlish notions of romance when Jonathan deserted her without a backward glance. Now the time has come when she must finally choose a husband, and she has vowed to marry someone who will never break her heart.
Jonathan Pierce Thatcher, Viscount Remington, has returned home, free of all his family's debts. Only to discover that by some miracle he has been chosen to vie for the hand of his beloved Victoria. To convince his only love to once again believe in the magic of love and the promise of desire will be his greatest challenge yet. And one he cannot fail!"Source

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Fat Tuesday (for books) day -that one Tuesday each month where the number of new releases is INSANE- this month is January 25th, 2011!! Some Sexy, steamy novels will hit the shelves! Make sure you're carts are ready to go because we've got some good ones for ya! Eloisa James will give us another sexy retelling of a classic bedtime story, we'll get more from authors Courtney Milan and Elizabeth Hoyt, What looks like a fabulous read will be coming from Lynsay Sands, and one of my favorite authors-Victoria Alexander- will be giving us something to swoon over!

'When Beauty Tamed The Beast' by Eloisa James

[Read an excerpt: here]

"Miss Linnet Berry Thrynne is a Beauty . . . Naturally, she's betrothed to a Beast.

Piers Yelverton, Earl of Marchant, lives in a castle in Wales where, it is rumored, his bad temper flays everyone he crosses. And rumor also has it that a wound has left the earl immune to the charms of any woman.
Linnet is not just any woman.
She is more than merely lovely: her wit and charm brought a prince to his knees. She estimates the earl will fall madly in love - in just two weeks.
Yet Linnet has no idea of the danger posed to her own heart by a man who may never love her in return.
If she decides to be very wicked indeed . . . what price will she pay for taming his wild heart?"Source

'Unveiled' by Courtney Milan

[Read an excerpt: here]

"He was her bitterest enemy...
Ash Turner has waited a lifetime to seek revenge on the man who ruined his family, and now the time for justice has arrived. At Parford Manor, he intends to take his place as the rightful heir to the dukedom, and settle an old score with the current duke once and for all. But when he arrives, he finds himself drawn to a tempting beauty who has the power to undo all his dreams of vengeance.…
And her dearest loveLady Margaret knows she should despise the man who’s stolen her fortune and her father’s legacy—the man she’s been ordered to spy on in the guise of a nurse. Yet the more she learns about the new duke, the less she can resist his smoldering appeal. Soon Margaret and Ash find themselves torn between old loyalties—and the tantalizing promise of passion…. "Source

'The Countess' by Lynsay Sands

[Read an excerpt: here]

"The fairy tale courtship did not turn into a happily-ever-after . . . Not until her husband dropped dead, that is. He had been horrible enough to Christiana during their short marriage, and she was not going to allow the traditional period of mourning to ruin her sisters' debuts as well. So she decides to put him on ice and go on as if nothing's happened . . .
Until the real earl appears. Richard Fairgrave had every intention of confronting his villainous twin who had robbed him of his name and title . . . only to discover that he had died. Quietly assuming his identity, Richard must now deal with a maddening desire for his ravishing inherited "wife" - certainly a gold digger and possibly a murderess. And Christiana must deal with an unwanted new "husband" . . . and they both must figure out what to do before the ice melts!"Source

'Notorious Pleasures' by Elizabeth Hoyt

[Read an excerpt: here]

"Their lives were perfect . . .
Lady Hero Batten, the beautiful sister of the Duke of Wakefield, has everything a woman could want, including the perfect fiancé. True, the Marquis of Mandeville is a trifle dull and has no sense of humor, but that doesn't bother Hero. Until she meets his notorious brother . . .
Until they met each other.
Griffin Remmington, Lord Reading, is far from perfect - and he likes it that way. How he spends his days is a mystery, but all of London knows he engages in the worst sorts of drunken revelry at night. Hero takes an instant dislike to him, and Griffin thinks that Hero, with her charities and faultless manners, is much too impeccable for society, let alone his brother. Yet their near-constant battle of wits soon sparks desire - desire that causes their carefully constructed worlds to come tumbling down. As Hero's wedding nears, and Griffin's enemies lay plans to end their dreams forever, can two imperfect people find perfect true love?"Source

'The Perfect Mistress' by Victoria Alexander 

"Widowed Julia, Lady Winterset, inherited a shocking book that every gentleman in London wants. For a charismatic businessman, it could be a chance to build an empire. For a dashing novelist, it could guarantee fame. But to a certain proud, domineering earl, it means everything..
Harrison Landingham, Earl of Mountdale, cannot let the obstinate Julia release her shameless memoir, as it would ruin his family's name. The only way to stop her may be equally sordid, but far more pleasurable. Landingham's rivals are intent on seducing the captivating woman to acquire her book; and he is not the sort of fellow to back away from a competition where the stakes are high. The winner of this game will claim both the scandalous memoirs, and her heart."Source

[Read a letter from the heroine: here]

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And there you have it! Which of these Anticipated Releases do YOU have your eye on? Did I miss any January releases I should know about?

Enjoy!

Coming Soon: Anticipated Releases for December 2010

Happy Holidays one and all! Hope your Christmas and New Years is as spectacular as can be. And don't go sticking your tounge on frozen lamp posts and getting it stuck. Ralphie and the gang will be too busy purcashing their copy of these fabulous December reads to help you!
   This month's list was a bit harder to compile. So many wonderful Christmas themed historicals were released wither few days ago (and therefore didn't qualify as a December release in MY book), or there weren't that many historicals books being published this month. You guys know how I am: If the release date is November 30th, it's still a November release in my book. But I do want to remind you guys of a Nov. 30th book that is perfect for the holidays. Cathy Maxwell's 'His Christmas Pleasure' should already be in your TBR pile, but if not, you've got the perfect excuse to get it now!  

Here are the Anticipated Releases for December 2010!!!

December 1st- Harlequin and it's imprint will be working the worker elves to death this month! Today is December 1st, and all these fabulous books are available for your purchasing pleasure! A Sweet Christmas Themed Historical (I found one!) to start things off, A lovely Nicola Cornick title, and a few more are scheduled to hit the shelves!

'A Countess By Christmas'

by Annie Burrows 

"The Earl of Bridgemere is happy to encourage his reputation as a curmudgeonly recluse if it repels the grasping females who usually attend his lavish Christmas parties.
Helen Forrest is like a breath of fresh air, uninterested in his wealth and not cowed by his temper.
Bridgemere's seasonal duty suddenly becomes a pleasure as he sets about making Helen his countess - by Christmas!"Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'Mistress by Midnight'

by Nicola Cornick

"A wicked duke’s bed is no place for a lady…
Lady Merryn Fenner is on a mission to ruin the Duke of Farne. A beautiful bluestocking with a penchant for justice, Merryn has waited twelve years to satisfy her revenge against Garrick Farne. Her family name had been tarnished at his hands, her life destroyed.
For twelve years Garrick, Duke of Farne has kept the secret of what really happened on the night that he killed his best friend, Stephen Fenner, in a duel. Now Stephen’s sister is intent on discovering the truth and putting at risk all those secrets Garrick has protected.
When a disaster traps Merryn and Garrick together, white-hot desire stirs between the two sworn enemies. Merryn's reputation is utterly compromised and she is forced to do the one thing she cannot bear; accept the scandalous marriage proposal of the man she has vowed to ruin.

Beware of scandalous women..."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

'The Heir'

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by Grace Burrowes

"An earl who can't be bribed...

Gayle Windham, earl of Westhaven, is the first legitimate son and heir to the duke of Moreland. To escape his father's inexorable pressure to marry, he decides to spend the summer at his townhouse in London, where he finds himself intrigued by the secretive ways of his beautiful housekeeper...A lady who can't be protected...Anna Seaton is a beautiful, talented, educated woman, which is why it is so puzzling to Gayle Windham that she works as his housekeeper.
As the two draw closer and begin to lose their hearts to each other, Anna's secrets threaten to bring the earl's orderly life crashing down-and he doesn't know how he's going to protect her from the fallout..."Source

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'The Officer And The Proper Lady'
by Louise Allen

December 7th- A scorcher by Cheryl Holt, an offering from new-to-me author Allison Chase, and veteran Jo Goodman are threatening to burn a whole right through your snowman! check out their releases!

'Dreams Of Desire'

by Cheryl Holt 

"Lily Lambert's dreams consist of marriage, a home to call her own and children a plenty. Unfortunately, Lily must work for a living before finding true happiness, which brings her to Lord Penworth and his predicament.
John Middleton, Lord Penworth, is an overbearing snob who's having the most difficult time keeping companions for his 18-year-old wards; they either run off or he has to fire them. But Miss Lily Lambert seems to be able to hold her own, and she is possibly his last chance. John explains his situation to Lily, but the unexpected happens when she declines the position. John is shocked, since no one has ever done so before. He is unable to explain his next actions, but Lily's refusal to take the position sets him off and he refuses to allow her to escape."Source

'Outrageously Yours'

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by Allison Chase

"Major Hal Carlow is a self-confessed rake and is not fit company for the impoverished and proper Miss Julia Tresilian. But Brussels just before the battle of Waterloo is a social hot-house that throws them together.
Hal is certain that he does not want a wife. Julia knows she must make a sensible match, not ruin herself with a rake. And then the battle changes everything for both of them, and exposes them to the danger and scandal that is haunting the entire Carlow family."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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"A rare stone gifted to Queen Victoria by her secret suitor, Albert of Saxe-Coburg, has been stolen, and possibly delivered into the hands of the Marquess of Harrow – a man whispered to be slightly mad. Her Majesty asks scholarly Ivy Sutherland to assume the role of science student “Ned Ivers,” win the marquess's trust, and recover the stone before news of the theft ruins the royal courtship…
Since the death of his young wife, Simon de Burgh, Marquess of Harrow has dedicated himself to science. Finding an assistant whose intellect and passion match his own proves an unexpected boon, until he discovers that “Ned” is actually a woman. Simon is incensed…then intrigued. Unable to resist his growing desire for Ivy, which she undeniably returns, Simon knows he must end her charade before it leads to scandal… Instead, Ivy convinces Simon to work together to recover the stone...and unwittingly plunges them both into a more dangerous game. Now they're risking their lives...and their hearts... in a race to stop a sinister murderer before he kills again."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

'Marry me'

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by Jo Goodman

"HER HEART WAS LOCKED AWAY

Rhyne Abbott is fierce, brave, and used to a life of isolation on her father's spread on the outskirts of Reidsville, Colorado. But when, overcome with sickness, she collapses, she knows she must return to town if she is to have any hope of recovery. Only there is no place for her but the new doctor's home, and he wants more than just to heal Rhyne. He wants her hand in marriage.

UNTIL ONE MAN FOUND THE KEY

Doctor Cole Monroe's hands are already more than full with his orphaned little sister to look after, and yet somehow he can't resist the magnetic pull of Rhyne's bewitching eyes—or her tempting kiss. But convincing her to trust him won't be easy. For Rhyne's heart needs as much tender care as her ailing body. And the only cure is the thing she most fears: to let herself fall in love... "Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

December 28th- The Fat Tuesday(for books) in my opinion. The anticipated anthology by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, and Connie Brockway will final become available, Laura Lee Guhrke offers up another sweet tale, and Julie Latham (a.k.a Gayle Callen) gives us a nice after Christmas treat!

~*~

'The Lady Most Likely'

by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, Connie Brockway

"Hugh Dunne, the Earl of Briarly, needs a wife, so his sister hands him a list of delectable damsels and promises to invite them— and a few other gentlemen—to her country house for what is sure to be the event of the season.

Hugh will have time to woo whichever lady he most desires . . . Unless someone else snatches her first.

The invitation list includes:

• The horse-mad but irresistibly handsome Earl of Briarly
• The always outspoken Miss Katherine Peyton
• The dashing war hero Captain Neill Oakes
• The impossibly beautiful (and painfully shy) Miss Gwendolyn Passmore
• The terribly eligible new Earl of Charters
• The widowed Lady Georgina Sorrell (who has no plans to marry, ever)

And your hostess, Lady Carolyn Finchley, an irrepressible matchmaker who plans to find the lady most likely . . . to capture her brother’s untamed heart."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'Wedding of the Season'

by Laura Lee Guhrke

"Abandoned at the altar…

Lady Beatrix Danbury has always known she would marry William Mallory. She’d loved him forever, and she’d never doubted he loved her, too. But when she made him choose between their life together and his lifelong dream, Will chose the latter, and left two weeks before their wedding.

Return of the duke…

Will has no illusions that Beatrix will welcome him back with open arms, but six years has not diminished his love or his desire for her. The only problem is that she’s about to marry someone else. Someone safe and predictable… the complete opposite of Will. But can he stop the wedding of the season and win Beatrix back, or is it just too late?"Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

~*~

'Sin and Surrender'
by Julia Latham

"Painful memories once drove Paul Hilliard away. But when the elite secret fraternity of knights calls him home to help thwart a devilish plot against the king, Paul cannot refuse. And his bodyguard in this deadly undertaking is Juliana Gresham—a stunningly beautiful warrior who honed her skills under his expert guidance.
When Juliana first received her training, she was a young, shy, and innocent orphan; now she has blossomed magnificently into womanhood, tempting the honorable knight. Surrendering to his passion could gravely endanger their mission. But Paul’s great need for her will not be silenced—especially when the plot demands that the exquisite Juliana play a shocking new role in their dangerous intrigue . . . as Paul’s mistress."Source

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And there you go. Some decadent december releases to wish for under your christmas tree. Enjoy your holidays, embrace and make memories with your families, and always keep love in the forefront! <3

M.Y.C Day Releases: July 2010 ... One single day, SO many books!

   As all of you know, on the 1st of every month, I come out with a list of anticipated upcoming releases you should definitely add to your bookshelves. A pretty common occurrence I noticed was, that for each month, there always seems to be one day where the number of great new releases are all bundled up. I have taken to calling such days with these occurrences M.Y.C Days. M.Y.C stands for Mark Your Calendar, and should you be hoping to kill multiple birds with one stone, the M.Y.C day is that time to do it.
   In July, the M.Y.C day is Tuesday, July 27th 2010 (TODAY). That day is upon us now, so hire your hackney and mosey on down to ye ole Barnes&Noble to get your copy of the following titles (as featured in the Coming Soon: Anticipated Releases for July 2010):

1.)'Last Night's Scandal' by Loretta Chase

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2.)'A Kiss At Midnight' by Eloisa James

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 3.)'Three Nights With A Scoundrel' by Tessa Dare

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4.)'Swept Away By A Kiss' by Katharine Ashe

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5.)'A Highland Duchess' by Karen Ranney

As stated, the titles listed above are ALL being released today! Have fun lugging home your arm full of new releases ;)!

Until Next Post<3...

Coming Soon: Anticipated Releases for July 2010

Once again, I present this random quote by Mark Twain: "Patriotism is the last refuge for scoundrels."...with that out of the way... June has seen some spectacular releases, and July is sure to be filled with enough patriotic scoundrels to keep us entertained. Fire up those grills, set up the lawn chair, and prepare to spend some quality time with the family. But also make sure you pick up your copy of these anticipated releases once you've had your fill of hot dogs and screaming banshees (oops, I mean kids).

 Here are some Anticipated Releases for the Month of July 2010!

July 1st- Will see a beginning of a new month and the addition of these 2 wonderful novels. Make sure you add these Harlequin releases to your shopping cart TODAY! Later on in the day, check back for my interview with the fabulous Hope Tarr!

 'Paying The Virgin's Price' by Christine Merrill

"Chaperon Diana Price knew she was teetering on the edge of ruin. Her father had staked his fortune, and her virginity, at the card table—and lost! To the most notorious gamester in town...

Nathan Wardale had money, plenty of it, but it was a long time since he'd been considered a gentleman. Still, he never intended to pursue this debt. Until he met Diana Price in the flesh—and began to wonder just how long his honor would hold out..."Source

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'The Tutor' by Hope Tarr

"Lady Bea Lindsey is desperate. She's newly engaged to a very nice but dull gentleman and is fully aware that if she wants any joy in her marriage bed, she'll have to call the shots. But first she needs to be taught. And who better to instruct her than irresistibly sexy rogue Ralph Sylvester?

Ralph is surprised by Bea's request, but he can't turn down the woman he's lusted after for the past nine months. He agrees on one condition. For the next seven days and nights, Bea must relinquish total control to him. No pleasure will be off-limits, no act of lovemaking forbidden, no desire too shocking.

It's every man's fantasy... until the student surpasses the teacher..."Source 

[Read an excerpt: here]

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June 6th- Will see 3 more spectacular novels hitting the store shelves. Also, author Jennifer Ashley will stop by that day to talk about her latest release and give away a copy of one of her back-list titles to one (1) lucky commenter. Make sure you stop by the blog that day and comment for your chance to win!

'Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage' by Jennifer Ashley

"Six years ago, eighteen-year-old Lady Isabella Scranton scandalized all of London by eloping the night of her come-out ball with the notorious rake, Lord Mac Mackenzie. After three turbulent years of marriage, she scandalized London once again--this time by leaving him. 

 Now the reformed Mac has returned, and he wants one thing: Isabella back in his life, his house, his bed. He'll do anything he has to, play any game, as long as he gets her back."Source 

[Read an excerpt: here]

 'The Wicked Wyckerly' by Patricia Rice

"When he becomes seventh Earl of Danecroft, rakish John Fitzhugh Wyckerly also inherits a crumbling estate and massive debts. Determined to do right, he reclaims his illegitimate daughter Penelope and heads to London in search of a very rich wife.
Abigail Merriweather's farm has been quiet since she lost custody of her four young half-siblings-until a roguish gentleman named Fitz stops for a rest, his rebellious daughter in tow. His etiquette is questionable, his parenting deplorable-so why does Abby delight in his flirtations? And when she seeks a suitor to help her regain the children, why does Fitz keep popping up?"Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'Daring A Duke' by Claudia Dain

"Jane Elliot of New York is in London for an adventure. Unfortunately, her two brothers are also in London and quite determined that Jane have no such thing, which does create a few problems, and really is so typical of brothers. What Jane did not expect was the Duke of Edenham to be quite so dashing and quite definitely the most handsome man she'd ever seen. She also did not expect to capture his attention upon the first look.
It was flattering, to be sure, but did Edenham have to be quite so bold with her two brothers looking on? Most inconvenient. How was a girl to have any sort of adventure at all with brothers snarling at her and a duke commanding her attention?
How? Why with Sophia Dalby's help, that's how. If there's one thing Sophia believes it's that every proper woman should have at least one very improper adventure."Source
[Read an excerpt: here]

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-The M.Y.C day for this month is obviously Tuesday, July 27th, 2010. With some great novels by some great authors being releases, it would be wise to plan a trip to your local bookstore on this day. The following books are all being released on Tuesday, July 27th, 2010:

'Last Night's Scandal' by Loretta Chase

"After surviving the perils of Egypt, Peregrine Dalmay, Earl of Lisle, is back in London, facing the most dire threat of all: his irrational family . . . and Miss Olivia Wingate-Carsington. A descendant of notorious—but very aristocratic—swindlers, the delectable redhead has the ability to completely unhinge him and a long history of dragging him into her scandalous schemes.

Olivia may be Society's darling, but she's aware a respectable future looms menacingly. And so when Lisle is forced to go on a family mission, she sees this as the perfect chance for one last adventure—even if it is with the one man in the world she can't wrap around her finger. But really, she only wants to help . . .

Which is why Lisle and Olivia find themselves in a gloomy Scottish castle inhabited by spiteful ghosts and craven murderers . . . and a shocking secret: the greatest peril of all may be burning within their own stubborn hearts."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'A Kiss At Midnight' by Eloisa James

"Miss Kate Daltry doesn't believe in fairy tales . . . or happily ever after.

Forced by her stepmother to attend a ball, Kate meets a prince . . . and decides he's anything but charming. A clash of wits and wills ensues, but they both know their irresistible attraction will lead nowhere. For Gabriel is promised to another woman—a princess whose hand in marriage will fulfill his ruthless ambitions.

Gabriel likes his fiancée, which is a welcome turn of events, but he doesn't love her. Obviously, he should be wooing his bride-to-be, not the witty, impoverished beauty who refuses to fawn over him.

Godmothers and glass slippers notwithstanding, this is one fairy tale in which destiny conspires to destroy any chance that Kate and Gabriel might have a happily ever after.

Unless a prince throws away everything that makes him noble . . .

Unless a dowry of an unruly heart trumps a fortune . . .

Unless one kiss at the stroke of midnight changes everything."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'Three Nights With A Scoundrel' by Tessa Dare

"The third time is the charm.

The bastard son of a nobleman, Julian Bellamy is now polished to perfection, enthralling the ton with wit and charm while clandestinely plotting to ruin the lords, ravish the ladies, and have the last laugh on a society that once spurned him. But meeting Leo Chatwick, a decent man and founder of the exclusive Stud Club, and Lily, Leo’s enchanting sister, made Julian reconsider his wild ways. When Leo’s tragic murder demands that Julian hunt for justice, he vows to see the woman he secretly loves married to a man of her own class.

Lily, however, has a very different husband in mind. She’s adored Julian forever, loves the man beneath the rakish facade, and wants to savor the delicious attraction they share — as his wife. His insistence on marrying her off only reinforces her intent to prove he is the only man for her. Obsessed with catching a killer, Julian sinks back to the gutters of his youth, forcing Lily to reach out with a sweet, reckless passion Julian can’t resist. Can her desire for a scoundrel save them both–or will dangerous secrets threaten more than their tender love?"Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

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'Swept Away By A Kiss' by Katharine Ashe

"A Secret Identity

When pirates storm Viscount Steven Ashford's ship upon the high seas, it brings him closer than ever to the nefarious criminal he seeks to ruin. Only one seductive detail threatens his victory: the scandalous beauty imprisoned with him, Lady Valerie Monroe. Temptation has never been so intoxicating or so forbidden, for Steven is disguised as a French priest. If they make it off the ship alive, to protect her from his enemies he must never see her again . . .

An Undeniable Love

Back in England, and under the ton's scrutiny for a reckless past she hasn't escaped, Valerie dreams of the breathtaking "man of the cloth" with whom she shared her greatest adventure. Then he reappears in society under his true identity, Viscount Ashford, but, despite the danger, their consuming passion cannot be denied. Now standing in the way of their desire are Valerie's wounded heart, Steven's lone destiny, and a villain who will stop at nothing to crush them both."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

~*~

'A Highland Duchess' by Karen Ranney

"The beautiful but haughty Duchess of Herridge is known to all the ton as the "Ice Queen." But to Ian McNair, the exquisite Emma is nothing like the rumors. Sensual and passionate, she moves him as no other woman has before. If only she were his wife and not his captive . . .

Little does Emma know that the dark and mysterious stranger who bursts into her bedroom to kidnap her is the powerful Earl of Buchane, and the only man who has been able to see past her proper faÇade. As the Ice Queen's defenses melt under the powerful passion she finds with her handsome captor, she begins to believe that love may be possible. Yet fate has decreed that the dream can never be—for pursuing it means sacrificing everything they hold dear: their honor, their futures . . . and perhaps their lives."Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

May your grills stay well heated and your bookshelves ever flowing... ENJOY!

'Midnight Pleasures' by Eloisa James -Review-

   Miss Eloisa James is an enigmatic author for me. Her writing style is distinctly different from what I usually find agreeable. I have a preference for directness and a single-focused story-lines; I do not have the patience (nor attention span) to waver from the hero/heroines inevitable interactions for too long. As I read 'Midnight Pleasures' , there were different perspectives flying around that threw me for a subtle loop. While I wasn't exactly taken with this book at first, it grew on me. Miss James has a story-telling quality that never fails to leave you emotionally involved with her characters.
  I've 'read' another James novel, 'An Affair Before Christmas', which I couldn't hold interest in (funny bit about the itching wig power, though); but even as I skimmed the book, the characters stayed with me. While 'Midnight Pleasures' wasn't a resounding success with me, it left an impression; A wanting to explore more of James' works for the book that will click for me; because I know its out there.

Read an excerpt: here

   Our story starts off with Sophie reminiscing about a (in her opinion) half-hearted proposal of marriage from Patrick Foakes. She had recently been caught in his embrace; and honor dictated a proposal be made. Sophie had feelings for Patrick like none other, but if he was only going to propose for the sake of propriety, she wouldn't have him.
   She ended up engaged (the next day) to chubby, dull, dim-witted (sorry for being so judgmental) Braddon Chatwin, Earl of Slaslow. She believes she will be contented with the union, and taking ques from her mothers follies with marriage, will act as the Countess she is destined to be and NOT take exception to the Earls inevitable mistress-taking. She could handle Braddon, there was no fear of falling 'in-love' with him. But she knew that Patrick could do things to her heart she would never be able to rebound from.
   As Sophie is preparing to attend the Dewland ball; where she will be announcing the impending nuptials to Braddon; she receives a routine 'tongue-lashing' from her mother whom thought her a light skirt, provocative flirt. She holds back the tears her mothers words induced, and promises herself that she would NOT be reduced to the bitter life her mother was living; tortured and acrid because she allowed years of her husbands blatant escapades to influence her attitudes towards him and thus put even more distance between husband and wife.
   Patrick was visibly irritable at the prospect of following through on the pretenses of being happy for his friend, Braddon. Patrick wanted Sophie and had no idea why she didn't want to marry him; title shopping probably, he thought. Because Braddon was an Earl and Patrick was a second son. Little did she know he was recently called in by Lord Berksby, Secretary For Foreign Affairs, to act as an ambassador next year at the Selim III the Sultan's title exchange for Emperor. Patrick would be given the title of Duke of Giles to further aid in his efforts.
   After the ball, Braddon brags to Patrick and his twin Alex about his finding the perfect mistress. He wasn't even married yet, but he believes he's found the mistress he will keep on as a permeate fixture in his life (and Sophie's too). Patrick becomes enraged and takes up Sophie's cause, but quickly must back-peddle because he holds no clout in the situation at all.
   When Sophie demands an immediate elopement which is to be done in dramatic fashion (climbing up a ladder at midnight and racing off to Gretna Green),after sharing a kiss with Patrick that makes her almost-taken so still-vulnerable-to-Patrick status unbearable, Braddon comes up with a scheme to get out of it and avoid the ultimatum of elope-or-bust. He fakes a broken leg and has Patrick act in his place to climb the ladder and take Sophie to the Earl's grandmother's house to dissuade her there. Patrick ends up giving into temptation and after Sophie reveals (under the pre-text that Patrick is Braddon under a deep-hooded disguise) that she doesn't want an elopement or marriage after all, Patrick (revealed as Patrick by this point) takes her virginity and lets her know he intends to marry her instead.
   Slyly avoiding complete social scandal, Patrick and Sophie enjoy a languorous wedding trip and explore the wonders of the marriage bed. The only damper, which is prevalent throughout the majority of the book, is that Patrick thinks Sophie was/is in-love with Braddon and he try to keep his distance so neither will get hurt (but, like in all romances, he only succeeds in causing more pain than good).
   Sophie goes on weekly jaunts with Braddon; which are really conveyances to a neutral place where Sophie can teach a stable-master's daughter, a.k.a Braddon's old prospective mistress but now love-of-his-life/future betrothed, how to be a proper lady and fool the ton of her ladies status. The trips wear heavily on Patrick's mind and have him seeking refuge in his warehouses and solitary walks till the wee hours of the morning; also leading Sophie to believe he has taken the mistress' she swore she wouldn't take exception to.
   Soon Sophie discovers she is pregnant, and an indifferent (but really terrified) Patrick continues (and even strengthens) his distance. Patrick has always had aversions to child-birth, having lost his mother (a very important figure in his life) to it; so hearing of Sophie's condition is traumatic on him and he wrestles with the right way to act with her.
   Everything comes to a head when after a particularly one-sided argument between husband and wife ends with a seven-months-pregnant Sophie toppling down the stairs and suffering a miscarriage. Sophie was already informed that the baby wasn't going to live before she took her tumble, but Patrick didn't and becomes beside himself with grief and guilt.
   They work through the bereavement, talk through their misunderstandings and settle into agreeable, incomparable, exquisite and all encompassing marital bliss.

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when we learn of Sophie's pregnancy. It adds another layer to the story that I appreciated. I always feel compelled by novels that explore that element thoroughly. Most novels just focus on the feelings and the misunderstandings, but babies represent something divine and incomparable that make the relationship of the hero and heroine more real and compelling. Its different, reading about babies in 3-paged epilogues and then reading the detailed account of their effects on the parents before actual birth. I always love a book that can explore that aspect, even though in this book we had an unfortunate ending.

Rating: 3 Aww's

As I've said before, Miss James is a most curious author for me. I hate to love her work. Its a new style for me; the many multi-view points. I sometimes find that way of writing tiresome, unnecessary and boring. But I got to the meat-and-potatoes of the story well enough to know its got solid likability. The characters were endearing and their struggles became my struggles (the purpose of a well-written novel). I felt Sophie's pain at trying to hold on to herself while her heart reached for something her mind wasn't quiet sure about. The anguish and emotion that was felt in the subsequent scenes of the miscarriage truly ate away at me. My advice is to give it a read and see if it floats your boat. This isn't the last I've read of you, Miss Eloisa James!

*The stories in this particular series (the Pleasure Series) have interlocking characters. Throughout 'Midnight Pleasures', Alex (Patrick's twin) and Charlotte (Alex's wife and Sophie's best friend) are prominent characters. Little backtracks and hints make you privy to the previous book's storyline in the series (which I haven't read, but now MUST).  Check out 'Potent Pleasures', Alex and Charlotte's story!; which has some good adulation and reviews.