Long and Short Romance Reviews

That Wyoming Wind by Jo Barrett

2009-07-13T04:00:00.041-04:00

That Wyoming Wind by Jo Barrett
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical
Length: Short (90 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 4 Books
Reviewed by Mistletoe

The weather had never been so strange, but Jodi Parker didn't give it much thought since she'd lost everything to her lying cheating boyfriend. That is until a dust devil picks her up and drops her in a different time and place. One with a few too many handsome cowboys.

This book was a heartwarming tale of love and trust.

With a great cast of characters from the out of the ordinary ranch owner with a mind of her own down to the jealous and spiteful young ladies who are looking for husbands. This story reminded me of an adult version of Little House on the Prairie. It had it’s share of wonderful men and feisty woman who sometimes have to hit those men right on the head to make them see what is right in front of them. With more than a few blossoming friendships that you can see will grow into long and faithful friendships.

Trying to start a new life after a cheating boyfriend and loosing her job Jodi is picked up by a dust devil and unceremoniously dropped on her butt right in front of the ranch owner Maggie. In a whole other time and place, and with that the fun begins.

Maggie brings Jodie back to her ranch and Jodi cannot stop the attraction she feels for the ranch hand Dan. Jodi tries to figure out her feelings and just what she is going to do in this town and time.

Maggie is a feisty lady and does it all her own way. So when Jodi is in need she steps right up and helps her deal with what she has been given. The two women become quick and good friends.

Even though Jodi and Dan take center stage the author wove many a character into the plot without making it confusing and nicely tied up all the loose ends. While you are not left wondering what happened to them all, you are left wondering just what other mischief they will be getting into.

If you enjoy spunky heroines and the men who love them you will definitely enjoy this book. The story flowed nicely and continued to entertain the reader all the way to the end. If you want a quick and spicy cowboy read this is the book for you.

Kill Me Later by Peggy Parsons

2009-07-13T04:00:00.040-04:00

Kill Me Later by Peggy Parsons
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense
Length: Full (310 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3 Books
Reviewed by Wild Plum

Ex-military officer Birch Bishop is hired to assassinate international arms dealer Sam Avel. When Tracy White unknowingly intercepts the bait money, Birch doesn’t flinch. He’s not about to give up his twenty-year pursuit of the man who murdered his parents. Following Tracy through Europe, Birch gets a little too close and falls in love. With Tracy between a madman and his money, can Birch keep Tracy alive?

Brilliant chemist Tracy White’s devotion to her research leaves no time for romance. Her solution? Squeeze in one night of wild sex, wild enough to last her a lifetime. But first she must stash her proceeds from the sale of her cosmetic cream formula into a Swiss bank, slighting the IRS on the way. When Tracy learns the money transfer was botched and she now possesses a sadistic arms dealer’s money, she chooses to be the target for the vicious man rather than rot in jail for tax evasion – until she looks into her would-be killer’s eyes.

I’ll be the first to admit that romantic thrillers aren’t my favorite books and they’re usually not my first pick either. But something about the blurb to this book just drew me in and I just had to know what was going to happen. The story was fast-paced from the very beginning and I just couldn’t stop reading. I swear I bit my nails to the quick.

Though occasionally the book would slow down or the author would use a action scene that had been overused, I still kept turning pages because Kill Me Later has a very unusual storyline. I have to say that it’s one that romantic thriller fans should love.

The story was filled with drama, suspense and an extra dose of passion. Let’s just say Peggy Parsons knows how to heat up the pages with drama and suspense and smoke roars to life with the intimacy between the characters. I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who frightens easily. But if a tense, edge-of-your seat ride is something you live for than it’s a must-read book for you.

Kindle

Facing It by Linda Winfree

2009-07-13T04:00:00.038-04:00

Facing It: A Hearts of the South Story by Linda Winfree
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Length: Full (203 pages)
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 Books
Reviewed by Holly

There are worse things than facing your greatest fear.

A Hearts of the South story.

Mired in a brutal marriage for far too long, Ruthie Chason takes her courage and her children in hand to flee the trap that has become her life. Yet she’s no fool. She knows he’ll come after her once he discovers she possesses criminal evidence that will put him away for good—and seal her deadly fate if he ever catches up with her.

Sheriff’s Deputy Chris Parker offers emotional refuge, a safe place to begin to reclaim her life…if she can let herself trust the strong, quiet cop that far.

Chris surprises himself when he agrees to act as guardian for Ruthie and her children. He does it as a favor, then finds something about her calm strength soothes his battered soul. Now if only he can silence the demons from his past that make him cautious of falling too fast for any woman.

Their need explodes into a heart-stopping night of passion that exposes their deepest vulnerabilities. But just as they begin to explore how healing love can be, violence tracks them down. And backs them into a desperate corner…

Facing It is the latest book in Linda Winfree’s Hearts of the South series. I always enjoy a good romantic suspense story, and nobody combines romance, suspense and down home southern charm quite like Ms. Winfree does. Facing It deals with an all too real situation in society today, domestic abuse. Not physical abuse, but much more subtle in that the victim has no outward signs to show for her pain and suffering.

You may think that emotional abuse would not make an engrossing story, but in the hands of a master crafts woman like Ms. Winfree, it is handled with taste and gentleness. The heroine of this book is Ruthie Chason, and is the victim who gets away from her controlling husband through several unplanned but welcome occurrences. She’s been planning for this for years, but can’t believe it when the chance comes. When husband Stephen announces he has to take a business trip, and the housekeeper has a family emergency and has to leave, Ruthie sees her only window of opportunity open wide. She grabs the children, takes the ledgers her husband has hidden showing he’s into much more than being controlling, and runs. She abandons the expensive car, takes an old van she has hidden in a long term garage, and leaves with as little as possible to slow her down. She heads for her hometown in Georgia, but not to her mother’s home, as she realizes that is the first place her husband will look for her.

Ms Winfree brings back the family from earlier books, the Calverts. Ruthie is Tick and Del Calvert’s sister, and all the family and extended family seen often in the Hearts of the South books show up here. Ruthie give her brother, an officer and former federal agent the ledgers, and he decides to find someplace safe for her to hide and someone to keep her safe. Enter our hero, Deputy Chris Parker, a sexy but wounded man in search of some peace for himself. Tick asks Chris to take Ruthie and her three children and keep them away from danger. The husband comes back, and causes trouble in many ways, including kidnapping the family matriarch, drugging her, and leaving her in an alley, showing that he is not above any trick to get Ruthie and the books back.

This is not an easy read, and I would not recommend it to someone who is still recovering from a situation similar to this. But it is a gentle and wonderful story of love, recovery and new beginnings. I loved that Ms. Winfree shows not only the feminine side of an abusive and controlling relationship, but also shows that it can and does happen often to men as well. The gentle growth of the feelings between Ruthie and Chris give the characters a chance to learn about each other gradually, and not rush into anything. There is a side romance between the federal agents who were watching the family because of an ongoing investigation of Stephen’s business activities, and the ups and downs inherent when you become attracted to and involved with your co-worker. Even the ever-amusing Troy Lee Farr makes an appearance or two here. I love the feeling of family that comes through in this book, and I would recommend it wholeheartedly as one fantastic experience.

Kindle

Take Me by Lucy Monroe

2009-07-13T04:00:00.037-04:00

Take Me by Lucy Monroe
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Genre: Historical
Length: Full (321 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

Jared, Viscount Ravenswood, has no choice but to honor the deathbed wish of his ailing servant. All she asks is that Jared introduce her soon-to-be orphaned daughter to the notorious and reclusive Calantha, Duchess of Clairborne. No ordinary request, for this is no ordinary child. She is, in fact, the key to the Duchess's most private secrets, and to Jared's own past-one that has branded him Lord Beast among the ton.

But when the Viscount meets the Duchess, he finds not the pitiless dowager he expected, but a lovely and wary angel-survivor of a brutal marriage left now with only her roses and the breathtaking mystery that is her life. For Jared, to solve it is to fall in love, to make her believe in the impossible, and to follow the promise that comes with the most intimate whisper of all... Take me...

He’s the Lord Beast because of his scars and brutish attitude. She’s the Angel of the ton because of her ethereal beauty. What happens when the Beast and the Angel meet? Read Take Me and find out.

Ms Monroe writes sexy novels. Her characters are intelligent, original, and memorable. Calantha and Jared are no exception. The details of this historical are rich, making the reader feel like he or she is truly in the novel, not just watching on the sidelines. You experience the characters glories and strife along with them.

The novel starts under the guise of sweet romance and leads right into intrigue. Once I picked up the book, I couldn’t put it down. Calantha, Duchess of Clairborne suffered in a loveless marriage as a toy for her husband. Once he died, she couldn’t shake the nickname of The Angel, though she felt nothing like an angel when she saw Jared. He’s the Lord Beast and her total opposite, cranky at times, overpowering, and scary to look at. When they meet and begin to love, it’s beautiful. Her strength buoys him. She smoothes out his rough edges. He’s her champion. Their opposites truly do attract.

I liked how Ms. Monroe tackled the concept of the blended family in a historical setting. Many readers can identify with members of blended families and the strife that can take place in such a situation. Although a bit of animosity existed between Hannah and Calantha, both characters grew through the story which made them more endearing to the reader.

If you want a fun novel with a sexy hero and a unique heroine, then Take Me is the novel for you. I give this work 5 books.

Kindle

Echoes in the Dark by Robin D. Owens

2009-07-10T04:00:00.042-04:00

Echoes in the Dark by Robin D. Owens
Publisher: Harlequin Enterprises Ltd
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full (548 pages)
Heat: Sensual
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

The planet is dying, slowly being drained by an alien Dark, and only one last, desperate plan can save it.

Deep in another dimension, a disillusioned young singer is summoned as Lladrana's last hope. Uncertain of her future, unaware of her extraordinary magical talent, Jikata will be the sixth and final outsider—Exotique—to step through a dangerous portal of prophecy and magic. Survival will require her to forge closer friendships than she has ever known. The price of those bonds will threaten the very fate of Lladrana: a world where music holds the key to an ancient mystery—and six women will wage the ultimate battle against the forces of Dark.

Echoes in the Dark is a symphony of perfection. This book is the culmination of a series that touches your heart on many levels and depths of passion. You cannot walk away from reading this series without caring for, rooting for and crying for the characters.

In this final book in the Summoning Series, the character focus is on the romances between Jikata and Luthan, Raine and Faucon. These two couples bring all the threads together which Ms. Owens has been weaving in throughout the series, creating a majestic world tapestry, vibrant in its background, environment and culture.

The format for the story was akin to sections in an orchestra. Ms. Owens starts with one section, just like a conductor. She switches POV in a seamless yet mind-boggling cohesive maneuver that focuses on each important event, with every entry bringing the reader closer and closer until the whole cast is on the same page, the same battle, the same focus of determination – to save the planet, Amee.

The strength of this series and this book is the sense of community and the characters who people it.

The secondary characters are familiar and well adored by me at this point because I’ve met them all during the previous books. The conflict, the evil Dark, threatens the entire world that Ms. Owens has created and by this point I felt committed and connected to these people. I cared about what was about to happen, and fearful about their future. So much hung in the balance, so many variations of the future were foretold. Will they succeed? Who will survive? The answers brought actual tears to my eyes -- tears of happiness and loss. How many stories have you read lately that have touched you in just such a way -- that inspires feelings for a people that thrive only in the mind of an author?

In addition to powerful characterization, tight and gripping dialogue and astounding world building, the fantastical magic creatures are both mysterious and a delight to this reader. And even they, as far from my reality as fantasy creatures can get, tug at my sympathy because they too are vital to the mission and affected by the outcome.

As far as the main romances, I think Raine’s is the most compelling because unlike the previous Exotiques, she was an abused innocent who’s character became like tempered steel, enabling her to pierce the armor that Faucon encased around his heart. Their romance was one that I truly rooted for because of Faucon. That man had gone through so much; had had his heart ripped out previously and it was pain and pleasure to watch his healing take place. I found it tragic to watch a man who used to be so upbeat and lively turn into a tortured man, believing he’d never find anyone to love him. When you read about people like that, don’t you want to save them? Don’t you want to cry at the injustice of loss and at the same time tell them not to give up hope? His story was a major draw for me in this book. Ms. Owens did not disappoint.

As for Jikata and Luthen, I was happy for them too. There was a bunch of interesting personal angst going on that played well into the plot and the romance. Two powerful people having to come to terms with their differences and similarities in time to make it all work. There was some pressure on Jikata to be sure and I found her patience with that old bat, the Singer, to be heroic in and of itself. I didn’t like the Singer and perhaps she knew she needed to be that way to work with Jikata’s personality. I don’t know. But I bet you Jikata is a better person from dealing with her.

I’m having a hard time limiting myself in this review because there is so much more that I want to talk to you about, to share my excitement and my feelings about what other favorite parts made this book so special. Suffice it to say, Echoes in the Dark is a masterful conclusion of a tale well told, that has eminent re-readability and characters that stay with you long after the final Song is sung and the last page is read.

Kindle

Winner Takes All By Sandra Sookoo

2009-07-10T04:00:00.041-04:00

Winner Takes All By Sandra Sookoo
Publisher: Desert Breeze Publishing
Genre: Historical
Heat: Sweet
Length: Short
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Snapdragon

Lily Henderson's greatest passion is knowledge. Christopher Farnsworth thrives on order and decorum. A simple dinner party and a bowl of potato soup are ruined when Lily's penchant for suffragette rallies and Christopher's military ideas of prim and proper meet and clash.

The two soon find themselves agreeing to a wager and love is the intended outcome. The premise? A suitable match by Easter. If he loses, he'll attend Easter church services dressed in one of his aunt's outrageously colored and beaded gowns. If she loses, she'll ride, Lady Godiva-style, around the heart of Indianapolis.

The problem is neither Christopher nor Lily can find matches that measure up to themselves. Romantic sabotage is the order of the day. The original wager is forgotten and the only thing the pair gamble with is their hearts.

Sandra Sookoo’s Winner Takes All, is an absolute delight. Her characters – and indeed the busy turn-of-the century Indiana, leap to life immediately. Sookoo’s word choice somehow evokes not on the mood of the times, but a turn-of-the century sort of elegance. The dialogue engages the reader from the first and presents to quirky, strong minded characters in an intimate light.

From the first disastrous dinner, we start to get a picture of the life of a suffragette; a suffragette that the family either wants to marry off or pack off to some touch minded great aunt. Every person in the family is a stark but believable individual, and every one has their funny (or perhaps more realistically -– their infuriating) quirk.

The unexpected in the everyday challenge young suffragette Lily Henderson – but none anything like a certain Christopher Farnsworth… who waffles wonderfully between the best of men and the most aggravating. He knows his own self less well than Lily, but is drawn to her. Although Lily says she wants to live life ‘in her own way,’ her parents and friends keep busily trying to arrange her life for her. And Christopher taunts her.

Every character in Sookoos work is a character. Take tough-minded Zelma Farnsworth; sure, she is almost admirable, but there is no denying her manipulative qualities. She doesn’t mind twisting even her colleagues and family to her own ends. Lily puts up with a lot from her, as well as from her friends, who fail to be as determined in their own goals as she might wish. Part of the joy of reading this story are the many minor surprises -– and realizing that not only do things Not go as Lily expects, but also not as the reader expects. I’ll give none of it away -- you'll have to read Winner Takes All.

Sookoo’s delicate humor threads throughout this delightful romance. Pick up a copy of your own. You won't be disappointed.

Kindle

Buckling Down by Moira Keith

2009-07-10T04:00:00.040-04:00

Buckling Down by Moira Keith
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Heat: Hot
Length: Short (16,500 words)
Rating: 4 Books
Reviewed by Buttercup

When two hearts are on the line, it’s double or nothing.

A Wild Ride story.

Levi McKenna heads to Las Vegas with one simple goal: win the rodeo and cement his place in rodeo history. Then Lady Luck throws a wild card into the deck—Sydney Hart. Time and distance haven’t dulled the sharp edge of their attraction, but thanks to a long-ago promise, she will always be forbidden fruit dangling just out of reach.

Sydney wants to believe in fairy tales and happily ever after, but her past relationships leave her doubting such things exist. She’s ready to give up on love…until Levi walks into her bar. The man who’s always held the missing piece of her heart. Love may not be in the cards, but that doesn’t mean a girl can’t flirt.

Neither expected passion this hot, this fast. Yet once the cards are dealt, the only thing left to do is play them out—and see if they have a winning hand.

What happens when a heartbreaking, bull-riding hunk, Levi McKenna (who wants his best friend’s sister in the worst way, but can't have because he made a pact with her brother to steer well clear of her) and an “asshole” magnet, Sydney Hart (who only wants to find Mr. Right but always ends up broken-hearted) cross paths again? A ride wilder than the mechanical bull in your best Country Western bar.

Buckling Down is a story about two people are meant for one another but due to a silly childhood promise to an overprotective brother and best friend and the honor to uphold said promise, they never quite see fate clearly until karma and circumstance finally open their eyes.

When Levi McKenna lands in a Las Vegas cowboy bar with his rodeo friends and is given a lap dance by the bar’s singer who turns out to be Sydney Hart, his best friend, Dusty’s, sister, he’s in for the ride of his life. Forget Devil--the bull that cost him the National Championship last year. So much for keeping a cool head focused on winning the national this year. Tired of one night stands and PR relationships, women were the last thing Levi wanted to contend with. Sydney tosses all his discipline out the window and seriously tests his friendship with Dusty.

Sydney Hart, newly dumped by her latest “asshole” boyfriend vows to give up on men. She attracts all the worst out of men and now she not only dumped another but he wouldn’t take no for an answer and ignores all restraining orders as well. Now Levi has sauntered back into their lives looking way better than a cowboy has a right to. What’s a girl to do? Go through life afraid of getting hurt or take just one more chance?

Buckling Down is an excellent grab a cup of coffee and settle in for a fast eventful read. Emotions are right on and the characters are lovable and well fleshed out. The love scene is delicious. I read this in one sitting. The only negative thing I have to say about this one is Lisa, Levi’s personal assistant is a strong character at the beginning and has some family issue and drops out of the story without clear explanation. It left me questioning what happened to her. Other than that, Ms. Keith is a wonderful story weaver, and I will certainly look for more from her. Incidentally, I don’t typically read ‘cowboy’ stories but I did enjoy this one.

Kindle

Selling Forever by Kimber Chin

2009-07-10T04:00:00.039-04:00

Selling Forever by Kimber Chin
Publisher: Champagne Books
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (82 pages)
Heat: Sensual
Rating: 4 Books
Review by: Orchid

Can Cara close the deal on love?

Eight steps for selling real estate. Can these rules be used for love?

Cara Jones, a top of the range real estate agent wants Richard Thompson's help. She needs a high profile man to be her handyman at the Shelter for Mankind auction. Who better than a millionaire who also happens to be gorgeous? Unfortunately the man is a recluse and avoids anything to do with publicity.

Although Richard has made a fortune, he still drives the same old car and lives in the poorer part of town. He resists Cara's request for help, but can't resist being drawn to her. The attraction is mutual but Richard is wary. He's sure Cara only wants his name and money for her project.

Cara is successful in business, but this means she is always on call and doesn't have much time for a life outside of work. She also has a social conscience and tries to help those less fortunate than herself. Richard hides from the press which means he also hides from any life outside of his work. Neither Richard nor Cara have much experience with relationships. Despite their strong attraction to each other, misunderstandings occur due to their inability to trust the other's motives.

I liked the smooth way both hero and heroine developed feelings for one another. The misunderstandings between were handled extremely well by the author and became natural extensions of the story. Both characters are professionals with very intelligent minds when it comes to business, but naive when faced with their emotions.

Despite the book being short, I found a depth to the story and characters which made it well rounded.

Selling Forever is a very pleasant tale to while away the afternoon.

The Heartbreaker by Carly Phillips

2009-07-10T04:00:00.038-04:00

The Heartbreaker by Carly Phillips
Publisher: Warner Brothers, Inc.
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (274 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

As the eldest of three rebel-rousing brothers, Chase Chandler has waited a long time to leave his small-town roots behind. All bets are off when the single journalist meets a redhead who arouses a lot more than lust. Yet Sloane Carlisle isn't just any woman. She's a senator's daughter who is about to thrust him into the eye of a breaking political scandal-and a shot at a story that's already making headlines. All Chase has to do for an exclusive is keep her out of harm's way.

A woman who refuses to play the Washington game, Sloane has just been hit with a bombshell that calls her entire identity into question. Feeling vulnerable, she does something completely out of character: She spends an incredible, passionate night with a handsome stranger. The last thing she expects is to ever see him again. But when she goes to the Chandlers' hometown of Yorkshire Falls to uncover the truth about her family, there he is! Not only that, her sometime amour Chase Chandler is sticking closer than a Capitol Hill groupie and igniting more sparks than the Fourth of July.

Suddenly a guy who has always steered clear of marriage is falling for a serious-minded woman with a family secret that could land them both in danger. If they survive the fallout, what will it take to get Sloane to say the two words that could turn the town's most eligible bachelor into the world's sexiest spouse?

Some secrets are meant to be kept and others are meant to be told. For Sloane Carlisle, the secret of her birth is something she should know and the secret’s about to come out. It’s up to Chase Chandler to show her that secrets aren’t always bad. Easy to say for The Heartbreaker.

This novel truly was a feel good story. So many authors tackle the long lost father theme and over work it, but not Carly Phillips. This story made me laugh, cry, and touched my heart. The characters are real and easy to relate to. Even when the problems come to the surface, you can’t help but root for the relationships to work out.

I loved that Chase, for all his power as a reporter, never abused it or Sloane’s trust. That made him a great hero. Well, that and his tall, dark and handsome looks. He took control and made sure everyone else was safe. I also liked that he admitted his faults. It takes a strong man to admit when he’s wrong.

As for Sloane, I enjoyed going with her on her journey to find out who she really was and who she belonged to. We all want to be accepted for who we are and when that comes into question, it can be a real shock. I liked how she dealt with the issues in her life and never lost her ability to smile.

If you want a great read for a rainy spring day, then The Heartbreaker is for you. I give this novel 5 books.

Kindle

Wolf Signs by Vivian Arend

2009-07-09T04:00:00.040-04:00

Wolf Signs by Vivian Arend
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 3 Books
Reviewed by Bittersweet

Talk about getting your signals crossed…

Granite Lake Wolves, Book 1

Robyn Maxwell doesn’t care that her brother has to cancel out on their backcountry ski trip. She can do it alone. The fact she’s deaf doesn’t make her survival skills any weaker. The chance to get away from it all and relax in the Yukon wilderness is just what she’s been craving.

Meeting wilderness guide Keil at the cabin starts cravings of another kind. Keil’s one hot hunk of ripped, tasty male. Now she has to deal with raging hormones as well as strange questions about wolves and mates and challenges to the death.

Keil was trying for a nice reflective retreat before challenging for the Alpha position of his Alaskan pack. He wasn’t planning on meeting the woman destined to be his mate, or finding out she’s not aware she has the genes of a wolf.

Between dealing with his accident-prone younger brother, a deaf mate with an attitude and an impending duel to the death, his week—and his bed—is suddenly full.

Far from the relaxing getaway any of them had in mind…

There is a Type O’ Negative song that says “Hey Wolf Moon, come cast your spell on me…”

As I read Ms. Arend’s novel Wolf Signs, I couldn’t help recalling that song for two reasons: one, the obvious topic of the novel, two, the male main character, Keil, has a certain semblance to the leader of the band.

Not only was Keil impressive physically: broad shoulders, strong biceps, very firm stomach and hair that hangs almost to his hips…but he also had a deeper side of him that could get any girl yearning for him ( I did).

Robyn, our female hero, is not far behind. Beautiful, headstrong and with a quick temper (which resembles my own), her deafness did not stop her from getting her point across.

However, at times her character does not seem to fit in with the pace of the novel, which seems to rush forward. In addition, I would have loved to see a little more bonding time between the characters…perhaps, a little more story on their relationship.

Wolf Signs is a novel full of humorous moments (TJ, Keil’s brother is a box of surprises. I hope we hear from him in future novels), sweetness, tenderness, erotic moments that easily melt any snow or ice in the surroundings, fur, paws, and love. It definitely cast its spell on me.

Simply Sinful by Carly Phillips

2009-07-09T04:00:00.039-04:00

Simply Sinful by Carly Phillips
Publisher: Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd.
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (265 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

Detective Kane McDermott might be fighting a bad case of burnout, but that doesn't mean he's taking things easy. His latest assignment is to investigate Kayla Luck, to discover if the etiquette school she runs for awkward businessmen is really some kind of escort service. It looks cut-and-dried . . . Until he sets eyes on Kayla. She's smart, but she's also trusting to a fault—and the heat that flairs up between them keeps getting in the way of Kane's best intentions. But if Kayla ever suspects his real motives, Kane will be the one who ends up getting burned.

Her last name is Luck, but her track record with men is anything but Luck. He’s determined to stay detached, until she enters his life. One taste of Kayla Luck and his luck turns, but can he handle it? Only if she’s Simply Sinful.

Carly Phillips writes breezy novels that will take you to another place. Her characters stay with you long after the story ends. When I read a book by Ms. Phillips, I know I will come away satisfied and entertained. Simply Sinful does just that.

Kane McDermott makes a great alpha hero. He knows what he wants and how to avoid it (or in this case, her) at all costs. His background is storied and makes him human. You want to help heal this man and hope that Kayla is his perfect woman. You want to see the couple succeed.

Kayla is a great heroine because she embodies the career woman: take charge, dress for success, while displaying maturity. That’s all well and fine, but she’s still young and hasn’t had the chance to be young and impulsive. I liked that Kane brought out her fire and spontaneity. She has issues and, although she’s afraid to challenge them, she’s willing to let him in. This made the story very touching for me.

Each page flowed with passion. You know there is something special between Kayla and Kane and want them to see it too. The love scenes are written tastefully, but with love. They care about each other while drowning in the physicality of the lovemaking.

If you want a fun read for a lazy afternoon or a trip to the beach, then Simply Sinful is the novel for you. I give this work 5 books.

Marrying Minda by Tanya Hanson

2009-07-09T04:00:00.038-04:00

Marrying Minda by Tanya Hanson
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical / Western
Length: Full (280 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 4 Books
Reviewed by Camellia

Mail-order bride Minda Becker arrives in Paradise, Nebraska and eagerly marries the handsome man who meets her stagecoach. His wedding kiss melts her toes. Too bad he's the wrong bridegroom. Having honored his brother's deathbed request to marry Minda, Cowboy Brixton Haynes can't deny he'd like a wedding night with the eastern beauty. But the last thing he needs is to be saddled with a wife and the three children his brother left behind. First chance he gets, he'll be back point riding along the Goodnight. But leaving Minda proves to be harder than he expected.

Twenty-five- year-old Melinda Susanna Becker feels she has paid her dues. She’s taken care of her two younger sisters by using her talent in fine stitchery and as a creative hat maker. She had bartered her creations for goods and money to support them as she nurture them until they settled into good marriages. Now she just wants to be cherished for herself—not just loved for what she can do. Thinking she is going to realize her dream, she cuts all ties with her old home and goes to Nebraska to what seemed like a dream-come-true in the letter from her intended husband. A false representation of conditions, a death, and a promise she did not make trap Minda. Her moral sense and lack of funds place Minda in a heartbreaking situation. The reader gets to see a sad Minda change from a naïve spinster into a capable, determined, and beautiful character as events unfold.

Brixton Haynes, a point rider on the Goodnight Trail, had come to Nebraska to see his brother wed before returning to Texas to the “fiddled-footed” life of a cowboy he enjoyed. After his disastrous romance with Esperanza Eames, a rich girl in Texas, Brixton had no intentions of loving again, but he did vow to honor his brother’s deathbed request in spite of his personal feelings. Soon he finds, the best laid plans of mice and man do oft times go astray.

Tanya Hanson weaves a web of events around Minda and Brixton that keep the reader absorbed in their uneasy relationship. The secondary characters strengthen the web making for some tense times. Katie and Neddie-Boy are remarkable characters that add a special dimension to the story. They touch the reader’s heart. Baby Priscilla, totally unaware, influences some major conflicts. Caldwell Hackett is a catalyst for some of the major decisions Minda and Brixton must make as time passes. The outlaws, while causing grief, unwittingly bring a windfall to Minda and Brixton that sets their lives on the course to a happy-ever-after.

Action, emotions, and growth of the characters make Marrying Minda delightful reading.

Scythe by MK Mancos

2009-07-09T04:00:00.036-04:00

Scythe by MK Mancos
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full (186 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 Books
Reviewed by Water Lily

A hot chick. A golden blade. Dead bodies. It’s enough to make a cop crazy.

Keely Montgomery doesn’t spend much time thinking about death. She’s too busy working toward a Ph.D. in social work—her ticket out of a low-rent apartment in a New Jersey urban center. Until an angelic courier delivers a scroll from the Office of Death and Dismemberment that could take her career down a new path—as one of Heaven’s Holy Assassins.

Her? Become a Scythe? No thanks, not interested. But she underestimates how persistent Heaven can be.

Detective Josiah Adler has seen a lot of weird things during his time on the force. A hot blonde wielding a golden blade, standing over a string of dead bodies? That’s a new one. So is the fact that her grisly deeds leave no blood or marks on the bodies.

The woman’s effect on his libido is another new development. One that leaves him no choice but to nail her before she kills again. And before his heart no longer stands a chance…

I love the premise of this book—God sends an angel to recruit Keely Montgomery to in his “Death and Dismemberment Department” as a Scythe.

Keely is smart, sensitive and caring, but perfectly able to hold her own behind a bar on the seedy side of town. She’s perfect Scythe material except she’s alive. But God is willing to make an exception. Author MK Mancos does a great job of pitting Keely’s desire to help others against the Scythe job description of harvesting souls. The conflict is believable and Keely’s feelings well justified.

Scythe Sampson is assigned as Keely’s supervisor. He looks like death and has the wardrobe to match. He’s impatient, gruff, married to protocol, and neither angelic nor human. I liked him a lot.

Josiah Adler is handsome, hot and a principled by-the-book kind of cop. He watches Keely’s first harvest and, naturally, misinterprets everything. He thinks she’s killing the drunk. And she is, kind of. After all, once the man’s soul is harvested, he’s dead. Then Josiah meets Keely face to face and the conflict begins. Can this sweet, caring woman he’s falling for be a cold hearted killer? He knows she’s not telling him everything, but can he live with her secrets? And what is with the death robe she wears?

Scythe is a twist on the classic story of good versus evil. In this case, it’s good business versus bad business. God, of course, runs the good business. His employees, the Scythes, give good death. The bad business employs Reapers who are more concerned with profit and loss than the fate of the souls harvested. I was tickled by the concept of Heaven as a business with departments.

Scythe is a good book that needed a stronger ending to make it truly great. Instead of giving this book a slam bang finish, MK Mancos set the reader up for book two. I wish she’d done both. Still, Scythe is worth reading and the concept is well worth following to a second book. I’ll be watching for her next installment.

Body Heat by Carly Phillips

2009-07-09T04:00:00.035-04:00

Body Heat by Carly Phillips
Publisher: Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd.
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (249 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

Night after night, Brianne Nelson has fantasized about the sexy stranger she met at the cafe where she works part-time. Never in her wildest dreams could she imagine that this tall drink of water would turn out to be a client.

Thanks to his wealthy sister, injured detective Jake Lowell is the recipient of Brianne's next personal services as a physical therapist for the next month. Now, he's not in any hurry to return to the beat -- but he has to find the guy who shot him first. Still, he does need therapy. But the "therapy" has evolved into something a little -- uh -- steamier. And before they know it, their nightly sessions have turned into a full-blown summer fling.

Just what do you do when your wildest fantasies become an even wilder reality?

He’s a cop in need of a little therapy that will heal more than just his body. She’s in a position to fulfill his needs, except that she wants to strike out on her own. Throw in a nosy sister for good measure and a drug dealer out for blood and you have Body Heat.

I love strong characters that still have flaws. They are great on their own, but that little push makes them that much better. Carly Phillips excels at this type of character. Her writing is witty and sensual all while staying relatable. Body Heat is no exception.

Jake Lowell is a hardened cop, still reeling from the death of his partner. His sense of duty propels him to worry more than humanly possible. That draws the reader to him. You want to comfort him and help alleviate the self-loathing. Brianne was saddled with responsibility beyond her years. She wants to free herself from the anxiety, yet doesn’t know that she is stronger than she believes. This draws her to the reader because we all go through times when we think life can’t shaft us more, but we still come out on top because we believe in ourselves. Plus, the sexy romp in the whirlpool stays with you! Whew!

If you want a steamy read filled with twists and turns, eye candy for a hero and a heroine you want to be best friends with, then Body Heat is the novel for you. I give this book 5 books.

Kindle

Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe

2009-07-08T04:00:00.032-04:00

Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe
Publisher: Kensington Publishing / Brava
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary
Length: Full (330 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

Anytime, anyplace, Ethan Crane's your man. An agent's agent, he’s tough, smart, and fearless. Exactly the guy you want when the stuff hits the fan—and the kind Beth Whitney avoids like the plague. It took a fiancé in the business to teach her, but she's learned her lesson: Don't. Date. Agents. It's this rule that's kept her employed at the agency, doing her part for world security from behind a desk. So when a case throws the two together, Beth's determined to keep it strictly professional. So far, so good—except for the steamy kisses, the red-hot phone sex, and...What was that rule again?

To Ethan, Beth couldn't be less his type if her father ran the agency, which, oh yeah, he does. Still he can't help but find her work in the field a total turn on. Off the field it’s even better. But hot pursuit of a notorious information broker is what they should focus on—not each other. That can wait until they’ve accomplished a job well done. Or can it?

Never date an agent, no matter how drop dead gorgeous the man may be. Oh, and never let him fall for you. That’s just asking for trouble. But if you do, know this. Satisfaction Guaranteed.

Lucy Monroe writes fantastic novels. Her characters are engaging and individual. Her stories have thread connecting them, which makes the characters memorable. The scenes are rich with detail and the passion… well, it’s ripe on every page.

Ethan Crane refuses to fall for the boss’s daughter. Won’t do it, no way. Well, maybe he would love to do it… with her. He’s never been the man to settle down. Who doesn’t know a man who prefers to play the field? But as much as he loves his freedom, if that elusive woman who makes him sizzle shows up, why not indulge? With Beth, he’s got no choice.

Beth Whitney’s given up on men. Her fiancée is a dud and her immediate prospects don’t look any brighter. Know any friends like that? She could be you, maybe? The reader can relate to Beth. We want to be happy and it seems like happiness comes in the form of the man we can’t have. You root for Beth to indulge in Ethan. I rooted for the relationship to work.

And the love scenes? Whew! Very hot yet passionate. You could feel the love.

If you want an action packed novel filled with unique characters you won’t forget, then Satisfaction Guaranteed delivers. I give this novel 5 books.

My Heart Will Find Yours by Linda LaRoque

2009-07-08T04:00:00.031-04:00

My Heart Will Find Yours by Linda LaRoque
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Time Travel, Action/Adventure, Historical, Western
Length: Full (310 pages)
Heat: Sensual
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Water Lily

Fated lovers suffer the agony of loss only to be reunited to fulfill a greater plan.

TEXANNA KEITH doesn’t believe an antique locket is the key to time travel, but plays along, and to her horror, is zapped back to 1880 Waco, Texas. Her mission is to prevent Royce Dyson’s death in a shootout. Wounded, she loses what she longs for most — a life with Royce.

Marshall ROYCE DYSON’S wife disappeared in 1876. Now she’s reappeared, claiming she’s a time traveler. As he seeks the truth, he’s determined to keep Texanna with him, but it’s not destined to be.

A promise to a barmy neighbor catapults a reluctant Texanna Keith into 1880 Waco Texas to save Marshal Royce Dyson’s life.

Texanna’s first trip to 1880 is brief. She warns the marshal he’ll be shot in a bank robbery and then she’s on the first train out of town. Back home, she checks the history book and finds the stubborn man didn’t heed her warning. So, she goes back to try again.

Time travels are tricky, especially those in which characters go back and forth in time. Texanna uses her neighbor’s, Dyson’s missing wife Pearl, turquoise locket to go back in time not once but twice. It’s the same locket which accidentally sent Pearl to the 1920’s. Complicated storylines make for interesting plots when they’re done as well as this one is. The rules must be maintained—the locket can only be in one place at a time. LaRoque handle the intricacies of the genre flawlessly.

I loved the bi-play between Royce and Texanna. They have definite chemistry even though Texanna wishes they didn’t. She risks everything to save Royce and his (and Pearl’s) son, but doesn’t mean to stay in 1880. She doesn’t mean to fall in love with Pearl’s husband.

Linda LaRoque’s characters are extremely likeable, multilayered, and faith-filled. The way she plays the past and the present off each other, using one to change the other, makes this story truly unique. My Heart Will Find Yours is fast paced and compelling. I read it in one sitting.

I will definitely be watching for Flames in the Sky, Book Two in LaRoque’s Turquoise Legacy series.

Kindle

By Another Name by Ashley Elizabeth Ludwig

2009-07-08T04:00:00.030-04:00

By Another Name by Ashley Elizabeth Ludwig
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Inspirational, Holiday
Length: Short (44 pages)
Heat: Sweet
Rating: 4 Books
Reviewed by Orange Blossom

What happens when a reformed high school bully falls for the girl he tormented seven years earlier?

When Kade Sinclair crashes into the girl of his dreams, she quickly wrecks his heart. Not one to take no for an answer, he pulls out all the stops to win her over. What he learns changes his life forever.

Rosalee Timmons is coming home. A single mother, new business owner, and the object of the most popular guy in town’s attention--starting over will be the biggest hurdle of her life. She may be hiding behind a new name, but that doesn't heal the old scars on her wounded heart.

When Kade realizes that confident, aloof Lee is actually little Rosalee Timmons all grown up, it seems he hasn’t a snowball’s chance. But when opportunity knocks, he finds a way back into her life.

Will Lee accept an apology seven years in the making, or will Kade give up before she finally gives in?

A debut author worthy of a repeat performance, Ashley Elizabeth Ludwig has penned a truly enjoyable short Easter-themed novella. A sweet story to inspire your own renewal—your own do over. And don’t we all wish for a do-over once in a while?

The Rosalee Timmons who left town six years ago wasn’t the same Lee who returned to her hometown—the place of her shame and humiliation. Lee is a strong character. She’s had some tough things happen to her and she’s met them head-on and returned home a capable, independent woman.

Kade Sinclair is the catch of the town and he has his eye set on Lee even before he remembers who she is. He’s probably the last person Lee would want to see as he is just a part of her miserable past. But when Kade first sees Lee, BAM—it’s like love at first sight—or something like that. Kade is someone worthy of Lee. He’s kind and caring. Everyone who knows him, likes him. And maybe if Lee will give him a chance, he’ll help her find that renewal to start over again.

Ms. Ludwig’s first published work was very well written and enjoyable. By Another Name is one of those stories to remind us all to renew our hearts, souls and minds. To give up those angry or disagreeable resentments and memories and begin again. I expect to see great things from her in the future.

Love the Day by Betty Hanawa

2009-07-08T04:00:00.028-04:00

Love the Day by Betty Hanawa
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short (74 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Vervain

Once upon a time, Lucy Moon was a handmaiden to the virgin goddess Artemis. Now she wanders the earth, determined to remain celibate rather than subjecting any more men to the death curse attached to her immortality.

Lucy Moon has not always been known by that name. In times gone by, she was Lycida, handmaiden to Artemis, but when she lost her virginity the goddess cast her out of Mount Olympus to live the life of an immortal on earth, cursed. It didn’t take Lucy long to figure out what her curse was so now she’s bound and determined to live a fairly solitary existence.

Benedict Jones is enthralled with Lucy from the moment he hears her sensual laugh. She’s over-weight compared to what is currently popular, but she reminds him of a Rueben’s painting. Her voice alone does crazy things with his libido. When an opportunity presents itself, he’s delighted have a chance to get to know Lucy better.

While short stories typically move quickly, the pace of this story was perfect. I enjoyed getting to know the characters of Lucy and Benedict and found myself reading page after page, anxious to see how it all came together. It was nice to read a book that celebrated a beautiful woman, regardless of her size, showing that love truly is in the eye of the beholder. The ending was unexpected, but very moving. I would gladly read the story again and again.

A timeless tale of love and devotion, Love the Day will make you laugh, make you cry, and most of all it will draw you in, making you want to read it over and over again.

Sealed with a Kiss by Carly Phillips

2009-07-08T04:00:00.027-04:00

Sealed with a Kiss by Carly Phillips
Publisher: Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd.
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (366 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

On the outside, Molly Gifford has it all—a hot legal career and Daniel Hunter, her equally hot boyfriend. But what she really wants is a family. So when she discovers her real father, she doesn't hesitate to pack her bags. Even though it means leaving her old life behind…

A year later Daniel Hunter's still trying to get on with his life. Then Molly shows up at his door, begging for help. Her newfound father is under arrest for murder, and she's convinced Hunter is the only attorney with the skill and reputation to get him off.

Hunter can't resist helping an innocent man. But this time he'll be the one walking away—even if it breaks both their hearts to do it.

Take one woman who just discovered her father. Mix one lovesick man and a killer into the story. Shake well and season with unforgettable characters and sparkling dialogue. Finished product: Sealed with a Kiss by Carly Phillips.

Molly loves Hunter. She does. And she loves color, fun, and excitement. But since she found out who her biological father was, she’s focused on being the daughter the General wants: demure, soft-spoken, and totally not herself. When the General’s accused of murdering his best friend, Molly asks the only man she trusts to defend him and get to the truth. If Hunter makes it to her bed, then all the better… or is it?

I love the characters. The reader can relate to the daughter who wants to please her parents despite her own discomfort and the man who wants to love the woman of his dreams, even though he’s determined to leave her before she can hurt him again.

The dual love stories and the murder keep the reader engaged from page one until the end of the journey and beyond. You want to see things work out for all of them.

If you want a sexy beach read, then Sealed with a Kiss is the novel for you. I give this book 5 books.

Kindle

Free Falling by Sandy James

2009-07-07T04:00:00.042-04:00

Free Falling: Damaged Heroes Book 2 by Sandy James
Publisher: BookStrand
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Violet

Workaholic Ross Kennedy never learned to enjoy life until he meets the woman of his dreams. If only Laurie Miller can convince him that's exactly who she is.

A psychologist with empathic abilities, Laurie rescues Ross, who has been stranded in the middle of a Montana blizzard. The two strangers are completely snowed in and out of contact. In just a few days, their attraction to each other is overwhelming, but Laurie is troubled. Her empathic gift seems to have vanished. Fascinated by his pretty rescuer, Ross struggles to open up his heart enough to let this woman in.

When the two return home to Chicago, they try to solve a mystery revolving around a Prohibition Era journal they discovered in Montana. Will they find the missing treasure the journal points to? And as a former boyfriend begins to stalk Laurie, how will Ross be able to protect her?

Ross Kennedy had always been so wrapped up in his work that he didn't have time for a real social life. When he finds himself trapped in a Montana Blizzard and having just been rescued by a complete and very sexy stranger, he is forced to take a few days off from life. No phones, no TV, no outside interference. Laurie Miller, who just happens to be a psychologist and an empath, is taking a break from her very emotionally taxing occupation. As the relationship between Ross and Laurie intensifies, so does the mystery that is whirling around them both. Will secrets, an ex boyfriend and not to mention being complete opposites hinder a relationship between the Ross and Laurie?

Free Falling is the second book in the Damaged Heroes Series and is centered around Ross, the Type A, controlling attorney who never has time for fun or anything outside of work. Ross is a complicated man who is figuring out that he has missed out on so much of life and love when he meets Laurie, the psychologist. From the beginning Ross and Laurie are attracted to each other. With her smart mouth and his need to control, the dialogue between the two is hilarious at times. Being an empath, Laurie is able to sense emotions of those that she is near, however, the one person she can't read is Ross. This leads to some very interesting scenes in the book.

The gripping plot of Free Falling fully captured my attention from the beginning and certainly made this book a page turner. I enjoyed the mysterious scenes which included Laurie having feelings around certain people and not really knowing what to do about them. The one element that set this book apart from a lot of others I have read lately is this book contained a dual romantic story line. Clues are left throughout the book which gave this book a very climactic ending.

Although Free Falling is the second book in the series, it can certainly stand on it's own. You don't have to read Murphy's Law first but it does give some hints as to Ross' character. If you would like to read all the books in this series, they are as follows: Murphy's Law (book 1), Free Falling (book 2) and All the Right Reasons (book 3). This has become a series that I will continue to read several times over. This is the third book that I have read by Sandy James and I must say that she is a favorite author of mine. Her writing and research is always well thought out and reaches out to the reader. She is certainly an author who has the reader and their interests in mind and I expect to see more exceptional work from Ms. James in the future.

Kindle

A Corpse For Cozumel: An Adie Sturm Mystery by Anastasia Amor

2009-07-07T04:00:00.039-04:00

A Corpse For Cozumel: An Adie Sturm Mystery by Anastasia Amor
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery
Length: Full
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 4 Books
Reviewed by Snapdragon

Sultry days and steamy nights—Cozumel. It was a simple enough plan but when murder and men are tossed into the mix, Adie Sturm’s life gets scrambled. Her missing friend is murder suspect “numero uno” but Adie knows different. When she starts digging, she finds that the dots connect straight to multi-millionaire Diego Alvarez.

In her investigation, Adie becomes the murderer’s target. Enlisting an ex-boyfriend’s help, Adie’s emotions somersault. Wolf Du Lac is a man like chocolate—creamy-rich and sinfully delicious. She doesn’t mind having his expertise in the bedroom, but follows her own instincts when it comes to the innocence of drop-dead sexy Diego. What she’s not prepared for is the intricate web of seduction he spins, just for her.

Adie is swept away into a dangerous cycle of events that spiral out of control before she confronts the murderer and chooses the man that captures her heart.

The first person lends a sense of immediacy – and tension, to Amor’s A Corpse for Cozumel. This contemporary mystery/romance leaps into the fray from the first. Amor’s well-known lead, Adie Storm, jets off to what she fondly imagines will be a Caribbean vacation – but the relaxing part is the part she misses. Her best buddy is accused of two murders, and her whole focus needs to be on Marg’s needs.

Adie does find a certain completely stunning man: Wolf Dulac. Dulac would go a long way toward making up for the lack of vacation, unfortunately, it seems just possible that he’s tied to the murders… and if he isn’t, what exactly is his motivation? And of course there’s Diego, vintage tequila, and the locals’ dedication to chocolate. Between the chocolate and the smooth lines, honestly, Diego threatens to outshine everybody.

Adie’s self-doubt, combined with her concern for her friend make her easy to sympathize with and believe. Throughout the story, her character deals with sundry issues, large and small, and always seems very believable. Specific other characters shine, as well.

There are some places where the plot is overly contrived, occasionally bogging down in details that seem almost irrelevant. However, this is a very readable tale, with tons of the unexpected. It’s a bit out of the usual as a mystery – and not your usual, HEA romance, either. There are sure some of the best elements of both though – and a big measure of suspense to boot.

Forsaken Talisman by Ashleigh Raine

2009-07-07T04:00:00.038-04:00

Forsaken Talisman by Ashleigh Raine
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Paranormal
Length: Full (223 pages)
Heat: Hot
Rating: 3.5 Books
Reviewed by Lavender

Is she a victim of a madman’s agenda, or a willing player in his demonic games?

Talisman Bay Series, Book 2

Kidnapped and mind-wiped by the Shadow Walkers’ greatest nemesis, Skylar has no memories of her own, except for her name. All she knows is what memories she does possess belong to someone else—as does her face—and that she can’t trust anyone, including herself.

Shadow Walker Dusty Clements goes against direct orders to rescue Skylar and take her into hiding. It’s the only way to get to the truth, and keep her out of the hands of an enemy who could use her to wipe out the entire organization. The last complication Dusty needs is to fall for her.

As Dusty and Skylar work to uncover the secrets of her past, they discover a mystery more than twenty years in the making, and a love they can’t deny.

The enemy has one more trick up his sleeve though—a magical kiss capable of probing the deepest secrets of the mind. All he needs to bring the Shadow Walkers down is to get his lips on Skylar one more time…

Forsaken Talisman, the second in the Talisman Bay series, has lots of action and steamy scenes between the heroine, Skylar, and the hunky hero, Dusty.

A madman, Craze, who has supernatural powers, kidnaps Skylar. Her rescuer, Dusty also has special abilities, belonging to an organization that takes out demons. Skylar could be the key to everything. Is she being used to bring down the Shadow Walkers? The suspense is interesting.

Dusty takes Skylar to a hideout and helps her to rediscover herself after Craze has wiped out her memories. Dusty and Skylar have chemistry that is off the charts. If you’re looking for hot love scenes, you won’t be disappointed with this book.

Several other characters come into play in this well-written novel. Their hearts are bared as well, and the emotional depth is outstanding.

The issue I had with this interesting book was that I didn’t quite follow certain parts of the story line, and at times, all the other characters made things a little confusing. I have not read the first in the series, and I'm afraid that’s why I felt distanced from what was going on at times. I strongly believe that reading that first book before this one would be necessary to get that strong connection to these characters and their story. Something is lost by not doing so.

Still, the writing itself did not create the distance. It was only caused by not having read the first book of the series. I’d recommend Forsaken Talisman for the emotional depth and heartache, the found joy of the characters, and the hot love scenes. As for the story, the solution, I would think, to get the most out of it, is simply to read part one first.

It's About Time by Andee S. Davis

2009-07-07T04:00:00.037-04:00

It's About Time by Andee S. Davis
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Romance-time travel
Length: Short (66 pages)
Heat: Sweet
Rating: 4.5 Books
Reviewed by Snapdragon

A summer in England was meant to help Meg Sutherland grieve her father’s early passing. The last thing she expects is to be thrown back in time to an era where her everyday knowledge of health and medicine may save two lives threatened by old-fashioned ignorance. How can she convince handsome Mr. Ellingsworth that her meddling will save his children’s lives when her twenty-first century confidence only increases his resistance? Aided by three spinsters and a cat, Meg weighs her choices between a lonely, independent life of modern freedoms and the possibility for love.

Californian Meg Sutherland is utterly charmed by the park-like surroundings in a off-the-beaten path part of the English countryside. From the weeping willows over the lane, to the rich scents in the little greenhouse, Davis manages to bring the sights and smells right to us. Each is perfect, as is the effortlessly charming Charles Ellingsworth.

Nothing can be so simple as our heroine finding home though, and love: for it is all in the past, in a time Meg is a complete foreigner to. She steps back in time as if it were no more than stepping across a threshold.

And life in the seeming perfection of the Cotswolds is not perfect. The local doctor is less than one might wish, and Meg recognizes his failures – and the danger he presents – but then must somehow find the credibility , and confidence, to intervene. She must risk love, in order to intercede… she must risk a life she so desires, but cannot quite believe.

Descriptions throughout are simply perfect; you will feel you are there. The story, indeed, is entirely charming, and a joy to read. There are the odd plausibility points – wouldn’t Meg be more surprised to find herself whisked back in time? But the descriptions and dialogue – each and every person, is so utterly charming, the reader doesn’t dwell on what might have been different, but simply enjoys the story as it stands. 4.5 books.

Demon Seed (Good Will Ghost Hunting) by Lesli Richardson

2009-07-07T04:00:00.036-04:00

Demon Seed (Good Will Ghost Hunting) Book One by Lesli Richardson
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Genre: Paranormal
Length: Full (209 pages)
Heat: Hot
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Amaranth

Demon love...Will it be hellish or heavenly? Kalyani's about to find out.

Demon Seed: Book 1 Good Will Ghost Hunting Series.

Kalyani Martin is a virgin and has every intention of staying that way despite the overwhelming attraction she feels for the co-host of Otherworlds, her new ghost hunting show.

Devastated by the loss of his wife twenty-five years ago, Will Hellenboek is waiting to die. An archdemon, he bides his time co-hosting Otherworlds with his cousin, Aidan. His instant attraction to Kalyani is simply unacceptable to him. His only goal in life is his death, not sex. And certainly not love.

Ryan Ausar protects Earth from anything that would usurp man's free will. His job becomes much harder when his strongest archdemon stubbornly refuses to come back to work.

When lives are on the line, Kalyani, Will and Ryan must make the choice to give up what they hold most dear. Can Kalyani turn her back on the known world and find a little heaven on Earth in the arms of an archdemon?

Lesli Richardson’s writing voice always enraptures me on the first page and this book was no exception. Good Will Ghost Hunting has a very in-depth plot, so in-depth that I felt kind of left out in the dark in the beginning, but quickly caught up. I love the amount of time that is spent on setting up the plot and characters. Normally, I would feel that the author is droning on just a bit too much, but with Ms. Richardson’s writing, I never feel bored, only excited to watch the story unfold.

I absolutely love Kal and her internal debate. Even better was when she finally stood up to her strict father. I felt so bad for her when she was possessed and I had faith in her and in Will to overcome this horrible obstacle. Will was also a fun character and I felt so bad for him. He is so attracted to Kal, but avoids her like the plague. I enjoyed watching their budding attraction and ensuing relationship.

Luckily, this is the first book in a series, because this one book was not nearly enough to satisfy me! I wholeheartedly look forward to the next book in the series and any other book written by Lesli that I can get my hands on.

Kindle

Under the Boardwalk by Carly Phillips

2009-07-07T04:00:00.034-04:00

Under the Boardwalk by Carly Phillips
Publisher: Time Warner Books
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (271 pages)
Heat: Spicy
Rating: 5 Books
Reviewed by Tiger Lily

Ariana Costas may be a college professor in Vermont, but she's still a Jersey girl at heart-at least according to her lovable, eccentric Greek family. Then her twin sister, Zoe disappears an dher Jersey roots tug hard. Soon Ari is back home, ducking bullets and, to her chagrin, getting rescued by a hunk in a black leather jacket. Detective Quinn Donovan takes one look at the windblown beauty-and then looks again. If this lady isn't Zoe Costas, it's someone who looks exactly like her. Suddenly, Ari's in trouble deeper than the Atlantic at high tide, and Quinn is trying to protect her without spilling his well-guarded secrets ... as déja vu just might become the love affair of a lifetime.

Imagine you live a quiet life in Vermont. The next thing you know, your quirky family manages to scare off the only potential safe suitor in your life. Then you find out your sister is missing and presumed dead. What should you do? Read Under the Boardwalk and see how Ariana Costas handles that exact set of problems.

If you love a fun love story, then you’ll fall for Carly Phillips’ novel Under the Boardwalk. Her characters are funny, smart, and totally imperfect. Ariana wants to escape the unrealities of her scheming family of con artists. She can’t accept that she’s one of them until her sister’s disappearance. Enter Quinn Donovan. He knows what happened to her sister, Zoe, but he can’t tell Ariana if her life depended on it.

My favorite scene is the argument between Connor and Maria over Ariana and Quinn. None of the four wants to admit attraction and they’d all rather argue. It’s a mirror of real life. I also loved Ariana’s insecurities. Who doesn’t have a hang-up or two?

If you want a sexy beach read, then Under the Boardwalk is the novel for you. I give this book 5 books!

Kindle