Review of THE CHASE by Erin McCarthy

THE CHASE (Fast Track #4)
Erin McCarthy
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date: April 5, 2011
ISBN: 9780425240144
Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback, 280 pages
Borrowed from the library

Kendall Holbrook is determined to make it to the top, even with the challenge of being a woman on the male-dominated racing circuit. She doesn't have time for romance-especially not with racing rival Evan Monroe, the man who nearly crushed her dream years ago. Tricked into meeting him, Kendall is experiencing all those old feelings again-and she can't deny that they still have enough chemistry to set fire to the track.

My Ratings:

Review

Sexual

I just plain liked this book! Second chance at love - damn good story and the sex was HAWT!!! Two people that flat out love each other; can't get enough of one another; even time doesn't diminish their love.

I loved the writing in THE CHASE. It didn't drag, there was never a dull moment, and the snappy dialogue is awesome! For instance, this little scene with Kendall and her mother during the Easter dinner:

"But you're denying yourself so much, sweetheart. I mean, you haven't even had a boyfriend in several years. Think of all you're missing."

Wanting to bring a halt to the conversation, Kendall hit on a perfect way to appall her mother, especially since every adult family member was seated around the table. "Don't worry, I'm still having sex. I don't need a boyfriend to do that."

Her brother-in-law guffawed. Her father set his fork down with a clank. Her sisters both looked amused.

And her mother looked like horns had shot out of Kendall's head. "Kendall! Good Lord, I can't believe you said that in front of the baby."

Little Jocelyn was six months old and didn't even know where her nose was. Kendall doubted she was being potentially scarred or morally compromised.

Evan and Kendall are perfect together. And you don't need to know a thing about racing or NASCAR to read and ENJOY this book. Even the wrench Ms. McCarthy throws in near the end couldn't sway me from liking this story. After all, those types of things do tend to happen.

Now, I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of Diesel Lange in SLOW RIDE.

Review Of "Spencer" By Kathi S. Barton

Title: SPENCER (THE GRANT BROTHERS #3)
Author: Kathi S. Barton
Genre: Erotic Suspense
Format: ebook - 245 pages
Release Date: 8/22/11
Author's Website

Caitlynne O’Malley is a great detective in Chicago .And a clean one. But her partner wasn’t and nearly killed her because of it. So she goes home to recuperate and to stay with her beloved Uncle and Aunt in Ohio. While there she has to save little Meggie Grant from certain death from a speeding truck, and Cait ends up hurting herself again. When she ends up at the hospital from her injuries she meets Meggie’s daddy, Spencer Grant. And the sparks immediately start to fly. Spencer has a home with his little girl, a wonderful intrusive family that he loves, and a job that makes him happy. Not only is he not intimidated by the gun toting cop, he finds himself oddly attracted to the beautiful woman. But Cait has vowed to never let herself fall in love. But when she is being hunted, her family makes a choice – live or die to protect Caddy-did and the little girl they've grown to love too. When Meggie is taken, Cait only has one chance to save her for Spencer, get her back to him at any cost. Cait has made a promise and is determined to keep it. Even at the cost of everything she loves. O'Malley has a love that defies everything. But is it enough? Meggie loves the hard-hearted woman, but can Cait love her in return?






MY REVIEW
I really enjoyed this story. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and I had no idea of what was going to happen next. I loved both of the characters, and although I usually don’t care for children in my stories, I thought the daughter was a great addition to this one. Cait is a great character. She is a cop through and through. She’s honest, straight-forward, and sexy. I loved Spencer and thought he was also a well-developed character. He was smoking hot, a great Dad, and very thoughtful. Outside of one really stupid moment, which almost seemed out of character for Spencer, I thought the two of them had a great relationship. There was a lot to the plot, but it wasn’t confusing at all. This is not a light suspense novel, but instead has some brutal moments and is a bit on the dark side.

I must mention that I also read the first two books in this series about Nickolas and Devin. I don’t think you need to read them in order to read the 3rd book in the series. The reason I personally can’t recommend them is due to the level and type of violence, including the rape and significant abuse of small children and women, and the lack of romance.

"More Than Words: Volume 7" Review

"More Than Words: Volume 7"

by Carly Phillips, Donna Hill, Jill Shalvis



Publisher: Harlequin

Release Date: April 1, 2011 

Source: sent by publisher




My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars



Summary from goodreads.com:

Each and every one of us
has the ability to effect change—to make our world a better place. The
dedicated women selected as this year's recipients of Harlequin's More
Than Words award have changed lives, one good deed at a time. To
celebrate their accomplishments, some of our bestselling authors have
honored the winners by writing stories inspired by these real-life heroines.We hope More Than Words inspires you to get in touch with the real-life heroine living inside of you.

In Carly Phillips's Compassion Can't Wait,
two high school sweet hearts are reunited years later, as if by fate,
and discover that if you believe in yourself and each other, anything is
possible.

Donna Hill's Someplace Like Home tells the
story of how one woman's dream becomes reality, as three special people
learn that it's never too late to form a loving family.

In Jill Shalvis's What the Heart Wants, an honorable man must learn to forgive himself to regain the trust of the ded icated teacher who is the love of his life.

My Review:



First of all, I love the idea of this book-stories about real life charitable organizations. Honestly, I really enjoyed reading the pages preceeding each story that told about the real life heroines who started up each charity, including how and why, more than the actual short stories.



Even though I liked reading the true inspiration blurbs, I thought the actual romance stories were slow and bland. I am a fan of short stories, so it wasn't the format that bothered me. I just felt like the stories were quickly written with hollow characters and not a lot of feeling.



I wasn't feeling any of the romance in the stories, so maybe if the authors had focused more on telling the other parts of the stories instead of the romances, it could have been a better book. The romances seemed forced and didn't seem to really tie together with the charities enough.





Main Characters: 3/5

Supporting Characters: 3/5

Setting: 3/5

Romance: 3/5

Uniqueness: 4/5

Cover: 4/5

Writing: 3/5





Bottom Line: The book definitely has a great cause and I appreciated learning about the different charities. However I wasn't left with the warm, fuzzy feeling that I was expecting from this book.

Winner Announced! "Reign of Madness"

Winner Announced!!

 

The winner of Reign of Madness by Lynn Cullen is:

SusieBookworm

Winner was chosen via random.org random number generator. Congrats to the winner!! I
have emailed the winner for her mailing address.

Winner has 3 days to respond :) Please allow 8 weeks for
delivery. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who entered!!
Congrats!!

"A Weekend with Mr. Darcy" Review

"A Weekend with Mr. Darcy"
by Victoria Connelly

Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark

Release Date: July 1, 2011 
Source: ARC sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Full of characters obsessed with Jane Austen and set in Jane Austen locations in England, this lively modern Jane Austen romantic comedy trilogy features two pairs of lonely hearts who find each other and themselves at a Jane Austen Addicts weekend.
Dr. Katherine Roberts is a Jane Austen lecturer at St Bridget's College, Oxford, who secretly loves the racy Regency novels of Lorna Warwick. But Lorna is really a man who's slowly been falling in love with Katherine. He's hoping that the Jane Austen Addicts weekend will be the perfect opportunity to declare his feelings...

My Review:

This is a super cute Austen-inspired modern day novel. Jane-ites are going to love this fun story with loads of references to Austen's works.

I loved that the characters not only mentioned Austen's original books, but also specifics about the many screen adaptations. Because let's face it, if you're an Austen Fan, you've seen almost all of the movies, too!

The characters were likable, but I never really connected with them completely. At first I thought the two female leads were a bit non-romantic for two people who love Jane Austen so much. You'd think they would be less skeptical of love. But Robyn especially grew on me after her hopeless romantic side came out.

Warwick was so cute as the Regency romance author. I loved that he wished he was more like the heroes in his books, it was so cute to read about.


Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 5/5 (I really adore this cover)
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: A lovely modern day story for Jane Austen fans.

Review of BOUND BY LAW (Men of Honor #2) by S.E. Jakes

BOUND BY LAW (Men of Honor #2)
By S.E. Jakes
Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
August 9, 2011
ISBN: 9781609285081
Genre: M/M Contemporary Erotic Romance
Ebook, 157 pages
Author Requested Review
S.E. Jakes Website

The one man he can’t forget is the one whose memories could destroy them all.

After the one man he trusted disappeared, it took Law Connor ten years to take a chance on another relationship. Trouble is, right about the time he’s finally ready to let go of the past, the past stages a hostile takeover.

Back when they were teens, Styx was the boy with no memory. He and Law had each other’s backs until he was forced to leave to keep Law safe. Now a CIA agent, he’s finally discovered who he is, and why he’s a hunted man.

Detective Paulo McMannus has almost succeeded in helping Law forget his lost love when Styx comes plowing back into their lives. No way is Paulo giving up his lover without a fight.

Suddenly Law finds himself on the run with Styx, the man who can still bring him to his knees...and with Paulo, the man who brought him back to life. The worst part? He can’t choose between them. And it’s getting harder to remember why he should.

Product Warnings: Contains rough language, rougher sex and warriors who fall hard for one another.

My Ratings
Review

Sexual

We were introduced to LC “Law” Connor and Paulo, with a glimpse of Styx, in BOUND BY HONOR. The story continues here when Law takes the plunge on another chance at love with Paulo, only to have Styx come bursting back onto the scene after being absent for 10 years (or was that 16 years?).

Because of his past connection to Styx, Law’s life is being threatened. CIA Agent Styx shows up out of nowhere and tells Law they, (Law and Paulo) are in deadly danger and need to move to a safe house. Well, this goes over like a ton-o-bricks with Paulo, but as circumstances stand, they have no other choice.

It’s during this time at the safe house(s) where you learn the backstory of the men and what motivates them. Especially what has happened to jog Styx’s memory and have him take action. Styx initially left all those years ago to protect the one he loved, and has been doing it ever since. Law finally found love again after many years in Paulo and doesn’t want to lose it, but is torn between the two men. Paulo knows what he has with Law and is ready to fight for it, but an attraction to Styx catches him by surprise.

There is an element of suspense woven throughout the book as Styx, Law and Paulo stay one step ahead of the goons. (Oh yeah, they’re all alphas: Styx – CIA; Law - former Delta Force; Paulo - Detective.) The sorrow is also tangible when their past comes to light. The main story is during the time spent in the safe house(s) and the conflict the men have coming to terms with the love they have for one another. During this time, Paulo demonstrates his love for Law by making the ultimate sacrifice.

After being dazzled by Damon and Tanner in BOUND BY HONOR, I couldn’t wait to read Law’s story. Unfortunately, there were times that I was plain bumfuzzold by this book. I would lose track of who said what. Take this passage for instance:

“You don’t know what I did. What kind of guy I was. What if what you know is only what you think you know? I might not be who you think I am.”
Styx looked so troubled at his own words that Law could hardly stand it. “I know enough,” he told Styx fiercely.
“I’m dangerous.”
“So am I.”
Styx pushed away. “You and Paulo should hide. Away from me.”
“No.”
“I’m not giving you the choice.”
“I’m through letting you push me away for my own good. That’s just as dangerous and it’s obviously not working.” Styx was protecting him again – the fucking asshole.

And the 10 years (or was that 16 years?) thing? Who intentionally waits in this day and age that long to find love? Yes, I have a real problem with that. Continuing with that same conversation above, I give you:

“I’ve been ruining your life for ten years.”
“Don’t flatter yourself,” Law scoffed, the truth of that statement hitting him harder than it should, because although he’d never considered his pining for Styx something that ruined him, he’d definitely been pining. Hoping. Waiting, like a fucking girl.
Jesus Christ.
It had taken ten years – actually, sixteen if he counted when Styx originally left – to open himself up.

One more, then I quit, promise. These guys have Daddy (and Mommy) issues. Not your run-of-the-mill, “My son is a homosexual so I am going to disown him,” issues – OH NO. Nothing that simple. They included a bigoted pervert, a mafia assassin and a child abuser. Of course, all were homophobic and have more issues that what I’ve listed here.

Oh, and in case you are interested, BOUND BY LAW IS surging with manlove. You’ll find yourself occupied with D/s, bondage, DP, anal, oral and, of course, ménage a trios.

These three men may be bound by Law, but their HEA is cemented by Paulo.

Review of The Tantric Principle by Jennifer Probst

Title: The Tantric Principle
Author: Jennifer Probst
Source: Requested Review
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Erotic
Format: ebook – 105 pages
Release Date: April 1, 2011
Author's Website



Arianna Devlin is a high powered advertising executive with ambition and too much stress. Desperate for balance, she enrolls in a yoga school to teach her certain lessons. Breathe. Stay calm. Be in the moment. And ignore her sexy yoga teacher who is becoming a major distraction…
Grant Madison runs a yoga school and lives by one code: don’t get involved with the students. But when Arianna walks into his studio, his resolve begins to crumble. He offers her a deal: a secret affair while in the studio, and the practice of tantric sex in the bedroom…
But when lust turns into love, Arianna and Grant are forced to make a difficult choice. Can Arianna reject the career opportunity of a lifetime for the possibility of love? Can Grant ignore his past and take a chance on the future?






I absolutely loved this book!!! I should not have picked this book up right before bed thinking I could read a few pages, sleep, and read the rest tomorrow. No! I could not go to bed until I finished it. I absolutely had to know what was going to happen next. This was a simple story of boy & girl meet & fall in love but have some issues they have to work through before they can spend their lives together. However, it was done perfectly. The writing was so smooth and the words just flowed across the pages making me lose myself in the story.

There was a ton of great dialogue! I felt like I really got to know the characters, and I liked both of them. They were both nice, hard working, caring people. With the exception of their emotional issues, they were pretty straight-forward people and didn't play any intentional games with each other. He was also very romantic and sweet.

They had smoking-hot sex!!! I was concerned that with the title and the yoga instructor they would pull some acrobatic moves that I couldn't follow, but that didnd't happen. It was pure steam described perfectly.

I loved how the story ended!! It was exactly what I was hoping for and seemed very realistic.

This is a keeper to be read again! I just wish Ms. Probst had a library of books that I could start devouring now!

"Dragon Warrior" Review

"Dragon Warrior"
by Janet Chapman

Publisher: Pocket Star
Release Date: Jan 25, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

The steamy second book in Janet Chapman’s dazzling Midnight Bay series seduces readers with an enticing tale of a fiery independent woman and an irresistible immortal warrior with a dragon’s courageous heart.

Maddy Kimble has no time for a suitor—not with caring for her spunky nursing home patients, her shy nine-year-old daughter, her widowed mother, and her rebellious teenage brother. William Kilkenny’s stunning lack of modern dating protocol doesn’t help. The man is uncouth and outrageous—a towering, drop-dead, breathtakingly hot warrior. Who refuses to give up.

William is secretly a ninth-century Irish nobleman formerly trapped in a dragon’s body. All Maddy knows is that lately, she can hardly resist the urge to lose herself in his powerful arms. But as their uncontrollable passion grows, eerie occurrences in her small coastal Maine town begin to rouse Maddy’s suspicions about her lover. He begs her to trust him, but how can she surrender—body and soul—when she fears the danger he poses to her yearning heart?

My Review:

I was so surprised by this book, normally I don't enjoy time travel or contemporary romance, but I loved this book! I guess it just proves that it's all about the writing and characters!

The time travel and shape shifting elements seemed very believable. They weren't overdone at all. But most of the reason why I loved this book was William. He was a great hero, strong, handsome, and with an unshakable sense of honor. I can really see why Maddy fell for him.

I loved reading about the nursing home where Maddy worked. All the residents were so much fun. It couldn't have been sweeter how William interacted with them and how they helped him get used the 21st century. And of course, they helped him woo Maddy!

I grew tired of Maddy always being down on herself and her looks. Supposedly she was 'saggy' but she was only 27! I got sick of her always whining about it. But I loved that William always loved everything about her. Another thing that bothered me, that I've seen in contemporaries before, was the "girl talk" between Maddy and her best friend Eve. It seemed a little forced, like they were trying too hard to be cool and hip with their chatting.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5 (the nursing home residents :))
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5 (I love that there's actual elements of the story here! William's beard, and his ever-present watch, and rolled up sleeves)
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This is a great book for romance fans looking to try something a little different while still wanting the sweet romance to steal the show.

Review of HIS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

HIS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Anthology
by Josh Lanyon, Z.A. Maxfield, L.B. Gregg, and Harper Fox
Carina Press
December 6, 2010
ISBN# 9781426890833
Contemporary M/M Romance
E-book, 493 pages
NetGalley Review




Mistletoe at Midnight by LB Gregg
Owen McKenzie has traveled to Vermont to spend an old-fashioned Christmas with his family when he finds himself staying at the same inn as his first love. Owen is disconcerted to realize he's still attracted to Caleb Black but refuses to pursue him. Caleb left him once, and Owen's not going down that road again.

Caleb is ready for a second chance with Owen and gets it when fate and the matchmaking McKenzies conspire to strand the two men in a rustic cabin during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Can Caleb convince Owen to rekindle their romance so they can stop spending their holidays apart?

Nine Lights Over Edinburgh by Harper Fox
Detective Inspector James McBride is riding high on the belief that he's about to bust a human-trafficking ring. But just five days before Christmas, his unorthodox methods catch up with him and his world comes crashing down.

McBride tries to concentrate on his new day job as security for the visiting Israeli ambassador. He even starts to feel a renewed sense of self-worth when the leader of the Israeli team, the aristocratic Tobias Leitner, takes a bullet for him in the line of duty. But he can't forget the trafficking case, especially when his investigations result in the kidnapping of his own daughter! McBride has no one to turn to for help-no one, except Toby.

Can these two very different men work together to bring about a holiday miracle-and heal one another's heart in the process?

I Heard Him Exclaim by Z.A. Maxfield
Who Likes a Skinny Santa?

Steve Adams's heart hasn't been in the Christmas spirit ever since doctors put a stent in it and ordered him to clean up his act. No longer filling out his Santa suit or allowed to make merry, he's forgoing the holidays this year and heading to Vegas to indulge in the few vices left to him: gambling and anonymous sex.

His road trip takes a detour when he encounters Chandler Tracey, who's just inherited guardianship of his five-year-old niece. Overwhelmed, Chandler's on his way to deliver Poppy to his parents. But fate has other plans and, after car trouble, Chandler and Poppy accept a ride home with Steve. Though the heat between the two men is obvious, they put it on simmer while they band together to make Poppy's Christmas as perfect as possible.

Steve soon comes to believe that while Chandler is the right person to look after Poppy, someone needs to look after Chandler. Fortunately, Steve knows just the man for the job.

Icecapade by Josh Lanyon
On the eve of the new millennium, diamond thief Noel Snow seduced FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, then fled into the dawn. Now a successful novelist, Noel uses his capers as fodder for his books, and has modeled his hero's nemesis (and potential love interest) on Cuffe. Though he leaves Robert a drunken phone message every New Year's Eve, Noel hasn't seen or heard from him in a decade.

So he's thrilled when his former lover shows up at his upstate farm one Christmas Eve. Elation quickly turns to alarm when Robert accuses Noel of being responsible for a recent rash of diamond heists. Robert is all business and as cold as ice: it seems his only interest in Noel is to put him behind bars.

Innocent of the crimes and still as attracted as ever to the oh-so-serious lawman, Noel plans a second seduction-providing he can stay out of jail long enough!




My Ratings
Review


Sexual


Yes, a Christmas anthology, but it doesn’t need to be the holidays to enjoy these deliciously romantic stories. I applaud Carina Press for putting together such talent and delivering a sweet seasonal treat.

Mistletoe at Midnight by LB Gregg
Owen and Caleb fell in love during high school but were separated due to circumstances beyond their control. Now 15 years later, they are brought together, due to circumstances beyond their control. They must confront the past and hope for the future. I enjoyed the parts of the story told in flashback; getting the opportunity to watch the beginning of Owen and Caleb’s relationship. Owens’ Mom and Brother are your typical loving “interfering” family members. They are a hoot!

Nine Lights Over Edinburgh by Harper Fox
A mesmerizing story of a desperate man who loses himself in alcohol and gambling. Detective Inspector James McBride is a lonely man who feels comfortable when out on his “streets”. But his descent into the darkness has its price, and McBride must face the consequences of his actions. Just watching McBride open up and realize there are different types of love and that he is worthy of love was a beautiful metamorphosis.

I Heard Him Exclaim by Z.A. Maxfield
You couldn’t have a Christmas anthology without Santa Claus - this one even has elves! Steve has had enough problems this past year and heads to “Sin City” Vegas for the holidays. On his way he runs into Chandler and Poppy who are having auto problems. There is an immediate attraction. Chandler feels insecure and irresponsible. He isn’t cut out for the job of parenting - not ready for a kid. (Does this sound familiar to any parents out there? It did to me.) Steve on the other hand is the opposite when it comes to kids - plenty of nephews and nieces. Poppy even calls Steve “Santa Claus”. I couldn’t help but chuckle when reading the stolen moments quickie between Steve and Chandler. *grin*

Icecapade by Josh Lanyon
How can you not love a seasonal read when the leading characters are: The Diamond Thief Noel Snow and The FBI Special Agent Robert Cuffe! Those names just rock! These two have it bad. I mean B.A.D. After one hot night, they haven’t seen or spoken to each other in 10 years - 10 frellin’ years!! There is a reason to their madness. Noel and Robert had to survive their chosen career paths to reclaim a passion they once shared. Noel is surprised when Robert knows so much about him. And Robert is so, so alpha: strong, silent type.



Now, you may be wondering why only the Sexual Rating of Steamy. Yes, the man love is HAWT! But it is not the sole focus of the story. It adds to the development of the relationship between the characters. What I found present in each of the tales was a breathtaking romance.

Giveaway and Review: "The Orchid Affair"

To celebrate the release of Lauren Willig's newest book, "The Orchid Affair", I have my review and a giveaway of the book, sponsored by Dutton!

"The Orchid Affair"
 by Lauren Willig

Publisher: Dutton Adult
Release Date: Jan 20, 2011

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
 

Summary from Goodreads.com:

"Pride and Prejudice lives on" (USA Today) in Lauren Willig's Pink Carnation series, which has been hailed for its addictive blend of history, romance, and adventure. In The Orchid Affair, Willig introduces her strongest heroine yet. Laura Grey, a veteran governess, joins the Selwick Spy School expecting to find elaborate disguises and thrilling exploits in service to the spy known as the Pink Carnation. She hardly expects her first assignment to be serving as governess for the children of Andre Jaouen, right-hand man to Bonaparte's minister of police. Jaouen and his arch rival, Gaston Delaroche, are investigating a suspected Royalist plot to unseat Bonaparte, and Laura's mission is to report any suspicious findings.
At first the job is as lively as Latin textbooks and knitting, but Laura begins to notice strange behavior from Jaouen-secret meetings and odd comings and goings. As Laura edges herself closer to her employer, she makes a shocking discovery and is surprised to learn that she has far more in common with Jaouen than she originally thought...
As their plots begin to unravel, Laura and Jaouen are forced on the run with the children, and with the help of the Pink Carnation they escape to the countryside, traveling as husband and wife. But Delaroche will stop at nothing to take down his nemesis. With his men hot on their trail, can Laura and Jaouen seal the fate of Europe before it's too late?

My Review: 

There's a reason why Lauren Willig's books are so popular, and "The Orchid Affair" reminded me of why. I didn't want this book to end. The story is an excellent, well-rounded historical. There's lots of adventure and mystery, great characters, and a lot of sweet romance.

The book started a little slow for me, there wasn't a lot of action at the start. But I felt the story picked up as soon as Andre and Laura ran into the boisterous painter, Daubier. I feel like that's when the secrets really started to come out in the open.

At first, I couldn't tell if Emma's relationship with Andre was going to lead to romance or not, but once it did, I was on the edge of my set for the rest of the book. Their love had it all, secrets, jealousies, insecurities, and always and foremost, respect and friendship. I loved that they were a little older and wiser than romance heroes and heroines normal are. That made their love so much deeper and more real. 

Andre was so strong and such an honorable character. I loved that his quiet strengths were so much different than a typical hero. I also loved that Andre had eye glasses and that he was always actually wearing them. It wasn't a detail that got lost in the story, it was very much a part of his character.

I really liked the secondary characters, they made the story come alive. The two children were so cute and seem so real, they weren't used just for laughs. Daubier was a lovable bachelor Uncle type of character, and I'm not going to lie, de Barry was hot!

The mystery was very well plotted and had me guessing the whole time. I was often shocked at the twists and turns in the story. I loved trying to decipher the messages form the Pink Carnation.

I wasn't totally a fan of the present day part of the story. I see it as a way to tie the series together, but I felt it took me out of the real story sometimes. At one particularly exciting point, I was so upset to turn the page and see the modern characters. It was like the dreaded "to be continued" at the end of your favorite tv show.

Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: This book perfectly balances a sweet and tender romance with an adventurous historical mystery. I can't wait to read the books that I've missed in this wonderful series.

GIVEAWAY RULES:

Dutton has generously provided a copy of this historical romance for readers of my blog!


All you have to do is follow my blog publicly and leave a comment on this review with your email address!
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REVIEW OF Cop Appeal (Red Hot Cop Series – 2)

Title: Cop Appeal
Author: Ava Meyers
Source: Requested Review by Author
Genre: Erotic –Menage, Spanking
Format: ebook - 60 pages
Release Date: 12/23/2010
Author's Website

People used to call her Sure-Thing-Sarah, but the only thing Sarah Larson’s sure about these days is her continuing desire and love for undercover cop Luke Anderson. Only Luke comes from money, and he’s the most honorable and sexually adventurous man she knows. Four years ago, she committed the biggest mistake of her life--fearing she wasn’t good enough for Luke, she left him to marry another cop. One, it turns out, who’s dangerously possessive.

Now, a year after her divorce is final, Luke is back and ready to show Sarah exactly what she’d been missing all this time. He’ll start by accepting her offer of mind-blowing sex in the event her marriage ever ends. Since Sarah’s a woman of her word, she gives in to Luke’s demands. For two days, she commits herself to pleasuring him and to being pleasured in return.

Eventually, Sarah’s old fears rise up to haunt her, but she’s seen the happiness she adds to Luke’s life. Their physical bond is spectacular, but there’s humor, affection, and tenderness there, too.

Sarah’s determined to give their relationship a chance, but first she must confide one final fear to Luke: That when her ex-husband, the man who’s been stalking her for weeks, learns of Luke’s return, he’ll make sure Sarah’s second chance at happiness is destroyed forever.

Rating

Sexual

MY REVIEW
I love the way this author writes. The words just flow over the pages. This was the second book I read by her, and I loved it as much if not more than the first. She slips enough thoughts and conversation in between super steamy sex to create a hot, enjoyable erotic short. I love stories where the guy is so in love with the lady, and his focus is to convince her to stay with him forever.

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Review of Secrets Volume 29

Title: Secrets Volume 29
Authors: Nathalie Gray, Nicole North, Dominique Sinclair, Saskia Walker
Source: NetGalley
Genre: Romance – Sci-Fi, Suspense, Paranormal, Contemporary
Format: ebook - 365 pages
Release Date: 7/25/10


My Review



Chimera by Nathalie Gray


From the overcrowded slums of a future Earth, he rose as the perfect tool of lethal justice and deception. Cold and stoical by choice, alone by circumstances, he will neutralize any and all threat to his client then move on. Blunt, direct. Nothing personal. But when his next assignment involves a popular politician who’s as smart as she’s attractive, the greatest betrayal would be to deny his heart.

I think the author was torn between writing a short story versus a longer one. The world she built was amazing but took up too many of the pages that I wished would have been spent on the wonderful relationship between the lovers. They were such wonderful characters and I wanted to get to know them better. I would have loved to have seen more dialogue between them, but you could definitely feel the emotions!


Edge by Dominique Sinclair

The search for the truth leads to the edge of danger, revenge and love… A beautiful hellion, the first woman trained by the Department of International Intelligence, Catlina Demarco left her life without so much as a goodbye. Deep in Mexico, she’s close to finding the man who can give her the truth of her past, or kill her.
Agent Noah Tyler, Cat’s former partner and lover, is the last man she expects to show up with handcuffs and intent to bring her back to headquarters. No one has ever left the agency alive, Cat’s no exception. Only she refuses to go anywhere with Noah, he betrayed her trust. Forced into the jungle by three armed banderos, Cat finds her and Noah once again working as partners, their thoughts as one, their bodies craving, their goals conflicting.
Hot, angry and infuriated, Catalina must rid herself of Noah Tyler before everything is lost, including her heart.

This wasn’t as much of a romance. The characters were just fighting with each other too much for my tastes. It was certainly interesting and well written if you enjoy suspenseful stories.

Beast in a Kilt by Nicole North

Scottish lady Catriona MacCain has loved Torr Blackburn, a fierce Highland warrior, since she was a young lass, but Torr only sees Catriona as his best friend’s little sister. When Catriona’s family promises her in marriage to a detestable chieftain, she desperately needs Torr to save her from a fate worse than death. But Torr is under the spell of a witch of the dark arts and is cursed to spend his nights as a kelpie water demon. He doesn’t believe himself worthy of the virginal Lady Catriona. However, she is determined to seduce Torr and claim him… body, heart and soul, if only they can banish the curse and defeat the enemies who have vowed to possess and enslave them both.

I really enjoyed this story and liked the author’s style of writing. It was very romantic. I loved the world she built for them. I also really enjoyed both of the characters.

Sweet-talking the Opposition by Saskia Walker

London-based journalist, Eliza Jameson, is on assignment on a luxurious Rhine river cruiser when she finds the perfect distraction on board — old flame, Marcus Weston. But Eliza came dangerously close to falling for Marcus last time around, and in order to play him at his own game, she decides to call the shots. Meanwhile, Marcus has his own agenda. In the ensuing battle, who will end up on top?

I loved both of the characters in this steamy romance. I also loved how the author spread out the description of the steamy scenes so it almost seemed like they were doing something different each time. What a thrill! Interesting story and a real treat to watch him come to his senses. After reading her story, I bought her book of erotic shorts “Unleashed” which I am thoroughly enjoying!

Review: Montana, Mistletoe, Marriage by Patricia Thayer

Montana, Mistletoe, Marriage
Patricia Thayer
http://pws.prserv.net/patricia_thayer/

Contemporary Romance

Snowbound Cowboy by Patricia Thayer

Lone wolf Boone Gifford has spent years standing on the outside. Now he's looking at Christmas—through the window of beautiful Amelia's home. The snow falls hard—the stranded family needs help. It's time for the cowboy to step inside.

A Bride for Rocking H Ranch by Donna Alward

Kelley is rancher, housekeeper, doting sister to Amelia, granddaughter and aunt—and the stress of preparing the perfect Christmas at Rocking H ranch is getting to her. But distraction soon arrives in the form of delectable chef Mack Dennison….




MY REVIEW:



SEXUAL:



Two Stories wrapped in one volume

First story: Snowbound Cowboy - Rating: 5 Stars

OUTSTANDING! EXCELENT READ!

What a heartwarming story, it captured me right away and I couldn't put the book down. Such a sweet romance story and a happy Christmas for everyone in the end. I even cried in the end because of the happy ending.   The author gives a couple of recipes in the book - here is one of the favorites:


PEPPERMINT KISS BROWNIES

A regular box of brownie mix

HERSHEY'S KISSES or Chocolate drops

Crushed peppermint candy canes

"I use heart-shaped muffin tins, but you can use an 8 X 11 pan.  Once they're filled, I push one HERSHEY'S KISS into each of the centers, or squares, then bake as directed.  After they come out of the oven, sprinkle the crushed peppermint on top.  Enjoy, Patricia Thayer"

Second Story - A Bride for Rocking H Ranch - Rating: 4 Stars

Another beautiful story for the Christmas season with lots of cold snowy blizzards and sweet loving romance. This story followed along with the first story only from the oldest sisters perspective and the events that happened during her absence from the ranch. The ending was great with both sister's getting their HEA but the first story was more touching/emotional with the young 5 year old boy involved.

I will say this though, this is definitely a book to read in the winter - the writing style made me feel as though I was right there experiencing everything. The description of the snow blizzard, the freezing tempatures and the electricity going out leaving the characters to survive for warmth by the nice fire place and body heat made me want to curl up on the couch with a nice blanket to stay warm myself.

Review: Snowbound by Larissa Ione

Snowbound
Larissa Ione
http://www.larissaione.com/

Contemporary Romance / Erotica

Passion hot enough to melt the slopesand their hearts. Thanks to a devastating medical diagnosis, ski patroller Sean Trenton has endured two years of celibacy. Two long years that have chipped away at his confidence. Now, with the career opportunity of a lifetime on the line, hes ready to remedy the celibacy situation, and sexy snowbunny Robyn Montgomery is just what the doctor ordered.

Unfortunately, the last thing reliable, intense radio station manager Robyn Montgomery wants in her suddenly turbulent professional and personal life is a thrill-seeking former Olympic skier-even if he is a total hottie. Shes had it with guys who hog the spotlight and leave her in the shadows. So why is it that even an icy blizzard cant temper the combustible heat between them?

Warning, this title contains the following: explicit sex, graphic language.




MY REVIEW:




SEXUAL:




HOT Erotica! Enjoyable and Fun Read.

I love how Larissa Ione writes. Once again she has captivated me with this story. The characters were perfect for each other and the erotica was HOT. I will definitely be reading more of this author’s books.

Sean Trenton is a well known Olympic champion but has since then given up his goal to compete again and now spends his time as a ski patroller and a EMT. It’s been two years since his battle with testical cancer and it’s time to get back into the swing again with the women but getting over his ordeal is a different matter along with the way his attitude towards life has changed him, the same ole type of women just doesn’t appeal to him anymore. He wants more, not just a fling; he wants the real thing for once. When Sean’s eyes fall upon Robyn Montgomery, his opportunity is knocking at the door.

Robyn Montgomery has become a successful Radio Station Manager since her days in High School and now it is time to return for the reunion but Robyn has something to prove to her class mates and host an auction to raise money for kids to ski. Robyn’s ex-boyfriend/boss (Jerk) has left her without an emcee for her auction. Robyn quits her job because of her ex-boyfriends/boss tactics and heads out into the bar where she meets up with Sean, a temptation she finds hard to refuse, a man who says and does all the right things but his own fame and popularity is what keeps Robyn from wanting anything to do with him.

The chase is on when Sean finds himself to get the one girl who doesn’t want anything to do with him. Robyn finds herself changing towards life and towards her high school class mates and suddenly having to prove herself no longer becomes important as she lets herself enjoy life and be with Sean.

Great story and a must read. It was a short and fast pace page turner.