Ignited (Titanium Security #1) by Kaylea Cross

Description...

When her father is murdered by a Taliban cell in the tribal regions of Pakistan, Khalia Patterson reluctantly steps into his shoes to carry on the legacy of Fair Start Foundation, a non-profit group dedicated to furthering the education of girls. There she meets Hunter Phillips, the ex-SEAL and head of her Titanium security team, and quickly learns that coming to Pakistan might prove to be a deadly decision.

Battling demons of his own, Hunter grudgingly leads Khalia’s protective detail as a favor to his boss. From their first meeting it’s clear she’s going to be trouble, and that the cell that killed her father is hell bent on taking her out as well. Keeping her alive is one of the toughest assignments he’s ever faced, yet through one harrowing situation after another she continually impresses him with her strength and inner courage. Even though he fights his feelings for her, it’s a losing battle. And when the job is over, he doesn’t know how he’ll let her go.

**************

Let me start by saying, at $2.99, this is a STEAL!

I thoroughly enjoyed Kaylea Cross's Bagram Special Ops series and was thrilled to see this first in her newest, Titanium Security, being reviewed (and loved) in droves! Being slow, as I often am, to jump on board 'the latest thang' train, and even knowing I'd get a great read, I've just now finally finished Ignited and am here to tell you, it ROCKS!

My review...

Kaylea Cross, in my opinion, takes Military Romantic Suspense to a level that no other author has taken it to - not that I've read, anyway. More often than not we're given just enough of the harsh, ugly reality of war to get our imaginations going but without pushing against the walls of our comfort zones. Ms. Cross takes her stories just a bit further and gives us more of the ugly, more of the harsh, more of the reality of war, and while I hate knowing what happens out there, I also appreciate knowing what happens out there.

Another thing I love about Ms. Cross's stories is that her characters are mature, dedicated, passionate people; heroes who are alpha and protective, but let their heroines shine, and heroines who are strong, capable, and never clueless. Both heroes and heroines can hold their own, but they're confident enough in themselves to let each other be who they are and hold their own own, when needs be.

And since so many others have written AMAZING reviews of this story, I'll stop here because I can't give you more than they already have.

JR WARD Black Dagger Brotherhood eBook Sale!

The preorder price of THE KING has been dropped from $14.99 to $11.99!

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EDITED: As of 3/30/14 The following books are no longer $1.99. And in preparation for Tuesday's highly anticipated release of JR WARD's The King, Kindle and Nook eBooks 1-7 have been price dropped to just $1.99 each for a VERY limited time!! 

Scroll down for a description of each book.

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The King:  Book 12 in the series.

Long live the King…

After turning his back on the throne for centuries, Wrath, son of Wrath, finally assumed his father’s mantle--with the help of his beloved mate. But the crown sets heavily on his head. As the war with the Lessening Society rages on, and the threat from the Band of Bastards truly hits home, he is forced to make choices that put everything--and everyone--at risk.

Beth Randall thought she knew what she was getting into when she mated the last pure blooded vampire on the planet: An easy ride was not it. But when she decides she wants a child, she’s unprepared for Wrath’s response--or the distance it creates between them.

The question is, will true love win out... or tortured legacy take over?

Dark Lover: Book 1 in the series.

In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there's a deadly turf war going on between vampires and their slayers. There exists a secret band of brothers like no other-six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Yet none of them relishes killing more than Wrath, the leader of The Black Dagger Brotherhood.

The only purebred vampire left on earth, Wrath has a score to settle with the slayers who murdered his parents centuries ago. But, when one of his most trusted fighters is killed-leaving his half-breed daughter unaware of his existence or her fate-Wrath must usher her into the world of the undead-a world of sensuality beyond her wildest dreams.

Lover Eternal: Book 2 in the series.

Within the brotherhood, Rhage is the vampire with the strongest appetites. He’s the best fighter, the quickest to act on his impulses, and the most voracious lover—for inside him burns a ferocious curse cast by the Scribe Virgin. Possessed by this dark side, Rhage fears the times when his inner dragon is unleashed, making him a danger to everyone around him.

Mary Luce, a survivor of many hardships, is unwittingly thrown into the vampire world and reliant on Rhage’s protection. With a life-threatening curse of her own, Mary is not looking for love. Her faith in miracles was lost years ago. But when Rhage’s intense animal attraction turns into something more emotional, he knows that he must make Mary his alone. And while their enemies close in, Mary fights desperately to gain life eternal with the one she loves…

Lover Awakened: Book 3 in the series.

A former blood slave, the vampire Zsadist still bears the scars from a past filled with suffering and humiliation. Renowned for his unquenchable fury and sinister deeds, he is a savage feared by humans and vampires alike. Anger is his only companion and terror his only passion—until he rescues a beautiful female from the evil Lessening Society.

Bella is instantly entranced by the seething power Zsadist possesses. But even as their desire for each other begins to overtake them, Zsadist’s thirst for vengeance against Bella’s tormentors drives him to the brink of madness. Now Bella must help her lover overcome the wounds of his tortured past and find a future with her....

Lover Revealed: Book 4 in the series.

Butch O’Neal is a fighter by nature. A hard-living ex–homicide cop, he’s the only human ever to be allowed in the inner circle of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. And he wants to go even deeper into the vampire world. He’s got nothing to lose. His heart belongs to a female vampire, an aristocratic beauty who’s way out of his league. If he can’t have Marissa, then at least he can fight side by side with the Brothers....

Fate curses him with the very thing he wants. When Butch sacrifices himself to save a civilian vampire from the slayers, he falls prey to the darkest force in the war. Left for dead, he’s found by a miracle, and the Brotherhood calls on Marissa to bring him back. But even her love may not be enough to save him....

Lover Unbound: Book 5 in the series.

Ruthless and brilliant, Vishous, son of the Bloodletter, possesses a destructive curse and a frightening ability to see the future. As a pretrans growing up in his father’s war camp, he was tormented and abused. As a member of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, he has no interest in love or emotion, only the battle with the Lessening Society. But when a mortal injury puts him in the care of a human surgeon, Dr. Jane Whitcomb compels him to reveal his inner pain and taste true pleasure for the first time—until a destiny he didn’t choose takes him into a future that cannot include her....

Lover Enshrined: Book 6 in the series.

In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there’s a deadly war raging between vampires and their slayers. And there exists a secret band of brothers like no other—six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. And now, a dutiful twin must choose between two lives... Fiercely loyal to the Black Dagger Brotherhood, Phury has sacrificed himself for the good of the race, becoming the male responsible for keeping the Brotherhood's bloodlines alive. As Primale of the Chosen, he is to father the sons and daughters who will ensure that the traditions of the race survive and that there are warriors to fight those who want all vampires extinguished. As his first mate, the Chosen Cormia wants to win not only his body but his heart for herself- she sees the emotionally scarred male behind all his noble responsibility. But while the war with the Lessening Society grows more grim, and tragedy looms over the Brotherhood's mansion, Phury must decide between duty and love.

Lover Avenged: Book 7 in the series.

Rehvenge is used to living in the shadows and dealing with the roughest night walkers around—including the Black Dagger Brotherhood. As his secret identity as a sympath is threatened, he turns to the only light in his ever darkening world—a female vampire untouched by corruption, who’s the only thing standing between him and eternal damnation.

 

Outlaw (Carre #1) by Susan Johnson

When her enemy, the infamous Laird of Ravensby, abducts her in order to win his brother's freedom from an English dungeon, Elizabeth Graham finds herself strangely attracted to this notorious privateer.

*****

Intriguing, romantic, and burns up the pages sexy!

I love it when an author can write a story that stays true to historical detail, but does it in a way that brings the characters to life, making me care about them and whatever course they’re on. Such is the case with Outlaw, the first of two books in Susan Johnson’s Carre series.

About the story…

With relations between Scotland and England reaching a boiling point, the last thing Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby needs is the current complication of his brother’s kidnapping. His plan for a swift resolution is to do what any self respecting Laird would do; abduct Elizabeth Graham, the daughter of the man who holds his brother hostage, and keep her until his brother is returned. The only fly in the ointment of his plan is his uncharacteristic, uncontrollable attraction to his beautiful captive.

My thoughts…

Notorious ladies’ man, Johnnie Carre, Laird of Ravensby… boy, I didn’t care for him much in the beginning. Arrogant, manipulative, unrepentant man-whore… I really, really didn’t like him. But when he finally pulled his head out of his very fine, trews covered backside and realized what he was doing, what he was about to lose, that’s when I came to adore him!

Elizabeth Graham is a strong, independent woman determined to make her own way in life, and thanks to a very tidy sum settled on her at her husband’s death, she’s well on her way. It also took a while for Elizabeth to win me over, but when she did it was because of her love and unwavering devotion to Johnnie.

I really can’t share much of the story without giving away too many of the twists and turns that make this such an exciting, fast paced, couldn't-put-it-down read, but I can tell you this; If you love the attention to historical details and accuracy found in Kathleen Givens’ and Pamela Clare’s historical romances - along with an extra helping of steam - you’re sure to enjoy this sexy story of political maneuvering, kidnapping, torture, privateering, espionage, and sword-fighting, with a hard fought and well deserved happily after after.

My sincerest thank you to Susan Johnson for providing a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review! I'm looking forward to reading more!

Avon Romance and the Start A New Series Event for Kindle and Nook!

Start-A-New-Series Event for Kindle and Nook! 

Do you love Avon romances? I know I do, so when I learned that all of these titles would be part of the Barnes and Noble Start-A-New-Series book event, I had to share!

But even better news???

It looks like Amazon has dropped their prices, too. Each of the titles below has been dropped to $1.99 and the price is only good from 3/21-3/24 so if there's something here you've been wanting to read, I wouldn't wait.

Edited to add:

As of 3/30/14, only the Kindle versions of  One Wreckless Summer, Blitzing Emily, and The Wedding Favor are still $1.99. Links for all books are below.

Joan Bennet is tired of being a wallflower. Thanks to some deliciously scandalous—and infamous—stories, she has a pretty good idea of what she's missing as a spinster. Is even a short flirtation too much to ask for?

Tristan, Lord Burke, recognizes Joan at once for what she is: trouble. Not only is she his best friend's sister, she always seems to catch him at a disadvantage. The only way he can win an argument is by kissing her senseless. He'd give anything to get her out of her unflattering gowns. But either one of those could cost him his bachelor status, which would be dreadful—wouldn't it?

Click to purchase Love and Other Scandals for Nook
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What happens when a carefree, disreputable, stone-broke bachelor is forced to find a wife in a hurry? He hires a matchmaker, of course. What happens when the matchmaker doesn’t want to help him? Well, that’s when the fun begins…

Nicholas Stirling, Marquess of Trubridge, loves his life just as it is: dissolute, scandalous, and deuced good fun. His father, the Duke of Landsdowne is not amused, and when he cuts off Nicholas’ trust fund, the fun-loving marquess is forced to find an alternate source of income—in other words, he has to marry an heiress.

Click to purchase When the Marquess Met His Match for Nook
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For Virginia Traylor, Countess of Barrett, marriage was merely the vehicle to buy her father a title. Widowhood, however, brings a host of problems. For her husband deliberately spent the money intended for Virginia and her in-laws, leaving them penniless—unless she produces an heir. Desperate and confused, Virginia embarks on a fateful journey that brings her to the doorstep of the only man she's ever loved...

He's known as The Devil, but Macrath Sinclair doesn't care. He moved to a tiny Scottish village in hopes of continuing his work as an inventor and starting a family of his own. He bought the house; he chose the woman. Unfortunately, Virginia didn't choose him. Macrath knows he should turn her away now, but she needs him, and he wants her more than ever. Whatever game Virginia's playing, Macrath intends to win—one wickedly seductive deed at a time...

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Natalie McCleary couldn't believe her eyes-a lean-muscled, darkly tanned, nearly-naked man stood in her path…and then it hit her: love. Everyone always told her it'd hit like a thunderbolt, and she never believed them. But now she knew: practical, sensible Natalie was head over heels in love-with a stranger.

But ex-Navy SEAL Dade Vega wasn't about to be a stranger for long. He'd ridden into Cupid on his motorcycle, vowing to keep a promise he'd made to a military buddy. But a single glimpse at Natalie-soaking wet and unexpectedly tempting-changed his life forever.
But how can he offer her is love, when he can't even promise to stay in one place for longer than a week?

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The perfect daughter. The perfect prom queen. The perfect wife. Jenny Tolliver's been the good girl all her life, and it's gotten her nowhere. Now that her marriage has been busted up by her cheating ex, she's decided it's time to regroup and rediscover herself. This summer she's headed back to her hometown of Destiny, Ohio, to the very lakeshore cottage where she grew up, to figure out what life holds in store for her next.

She never dreamed the answer would be Mick Brody, Destiny's #1 hellraiser. He comes from the wrong side of the tracks (or in his case, the lake), and he's landed in hot water more times than he can count. He's exactly the kind of guy Jenny's always kept her distance from . . . but soon the good girl and the bad boy are caught in a raw heat that's out of control. Too bad Mick's got a secret that threatens to tear them apart and ruin Jenny's perfectly, passionately reckless summer . . .

Click to purchase One Reckless Summer for Nook
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Before the wedding
Tyrell Brown wanted to get the hell out of Houston and back to his ranch. Instead, he’s stuck on a flight to France for his best friend’s wedding. To top it off, he discovers he’s sharing a seat with Victoria Westin, the blue-eyed, stiletto-heeled lawyer who’s been a thorn in his side for months.
At the wedding
Victoria can’t believe it! How can she be at the same wedding as this long, lean cowboy with a killer smile? So what if they shared a few in-flight cocktails, some serious flirting, and a near-miss at the mile-high club? She still can’t stand the man!
After the wedding
The wedding disaster’s in the rearview, but the sizzle between these two is still red-hot. They tried to be on their best behavior in France, but back in the States all bets are off . . .

Click to purchase The Wedding Favor for Nook
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Have you ever gone just a little too far?

Lexie Banks has.

Yep. She just had mind-blowing sex with her stepbrother. In her defense, she was on the rebound, and it's more of a my-dad-happened-to-marry-a-woman-with-a-super-hot-son situation. But still, he's been her best friend and confidant for the better part of the last few years ... and is so off limits. It's a good thing she's leaving in two days for a year abroad in Rome.

But even thousands of miles away, Lexie can't seem to escape trouble. Raised Catholic, she goes to confession in hopes of alleviating some of her guilt ... and maybe not burning in hell. Instead, she stumbles out of the confessional and right into Alessandro Moretti, a young and very easy-on-the-eyes deacon ... only eight months away from becoming a priest. Lexie and Alessandro grow closer, and when Alessandro's signals start changing despite his vow of celibacy, she doesn't know what to think. She's torn between falling in love with the man she shouldn't want and the man she can't have. And she isn't sure how she can live with herself either way.

Click to purchase A Little Too Far for Nook
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Billionaire Archer Bancroft always gets what he wants—and he's wanted Ivy Emerson, his best friend's sister, for far too long. Being forbidden and untouchable only makes her more tempting. When a million-dollar bet with his friends throws down a challenge—last bachelor standing takes all—Archer knows he can win. That is, until one enchanted evening with Ivy takes his heart for a ride.

Ivy knows Archer is nothing but bad news: infuriating, arrogant . . . and completely intoxicating. But despite her best efforts, she can't seem to keep away. When a stolen kiss leads to a night of heated passion, Ivy realizes she's in trouble and in head over heels.

But in the light of day, everything seems clearer, and Archer's not so sure a one-night stand is all he wants. Concocting a plan to keep Ivy by his side, Archer might just be willing to lose this bet . . . and win the jackpot instead.

Click to purchase Crave for Nook
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All's fair in Love and Football...

Emily Hamilton doesn't trust men. She's much more comfortable playing the romantic lead in front of a packed house onstage than in her own life. So when NFL star and alluring ladies' man Brandon McKenna acts as her personal white knight, she has no illusions that he'll stick around. However, a misunderstanding with the press throws them together in a fake engagement that yields unexpected (and breathtaking) benefits.

Every time Brandon calls her "Sugar," Emily almost believes he's playing for keeps—not just to score. Can she let down her defenses and get her own happily ever after?

Click to purchase Blitzing Emily for Nook

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The black sheep of Fallbrook is back . . . and he's in for the surprise of his life.

Former bad boy, now-decorated Army Ranger Brody McBride is home and on a mission: Find the woman he never should have left behind and right the wrong he did eight years ago.

When the man she loved broke her heart and skipped town, Rain Evans picked up the pieces. But along with heartbreak, Brody left her something infinitely better than she could have imagined: two beautiful daughters. One she gave birth to, and the other she rescued from the woman who helped destroy her relationship with Brody.

Brody is shocked to discover he's a father, and he's more determined than ever to win back Rain and protect his girls. Can they rekindle the love they once shared and become the family they were always meant to be? Or will a danger from their past return and ruin everything?

Click to purchase The Return of Brody McBride for Nook

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Romancing the Duke (Castles Ever After) by Tessa Dare

Description...

In the first in Tessa Dare's captivating Castles Ever After series, a mysterious fortress is the setting for an unlikely love . . .

As the daughter of a famed author, Isolde Ophelia Goodnight grew up on tales of brave knights and fair maidens. She never doubted romance would be in her future, too. The storybooks offered endless possibilities.

And as she grew older, Izzy crossed them off. One by one by one.

Ugly duckling turned swan?

Abducted by handsome highwayman?

Rescued from drudgery by charming prince?

No, no, and… Heh.

Now Izzy’s given up yearning for romance. She’ll settle for a roof over her head. What fairy tales are left over for an impoverished twenty-six year-old woman who’s never even been kissed?

This one.

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Romancing the Duke is a "Bright, brilliant, life amid the ruins" joy to read!

There are just so many things I love about this story! There were kisses that made me smile, touches that made me tremble, starry nights that gave me goosebumps, and confessions that made me want to weep! From the first page to the last, I was swept up into this delightful, romantic, sexy story, and "Doubt not, my lady, I shall return!" for more of the Castles Ever After series!!

A copy of this story was provided by Avon Books, and in return I gave them an honest review.

Lethal Pursuit (Bagram Special Ops) by Kaylea Cross

5 stars just isn't enough! This. Is. Amazing!

Kaylea Cross outdid herself with this third book in her Bagram Special Ops series. She totally blew me away! Intense, brutal, romantic, and sexy, even writing this review I'm still shaking as I remember how things went so horribly wrong before they went so beautifully right!

U.S. Code of Military Conduct, Article 3:

If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and to aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor favors from the enemy.

Description...

Security Forces Lieutenant Maya Lopez is right at home in a war zone: she's been fighting all her life. A hard-won commission in the air force has brought her to Afghanistan, and if she plays her cards right, she could end up with an FBI job. It won't be easy, but that just makes her more determined.

Jackson Thatcher is a protector in all senses of the word. A pararescue jumper with Southern-boy charm, he easily captures Maya's interest, but her trust is another story. He's sexy, strong and caring, but she makes it clear she's no damsel in distress. She's never relied on any man, and she's not about to start now.

When Maya and Jackson become pawns in a radical warlord's deadly game, they find themselves on the run and must depend on each other if they want to make it out alive.

My review...

To say that Lethal Pursuit is a gripping story is putting it mildly. To say I couldn't put it down is not an exaggeration. Start to finish Maya and Jackson's story had me glued to my seat, hands shaking, closing my eyes because I couldn't bear to read what was going to happen next, yet unable to look away as I watched - yes, it felt like I was watching (because that's how incredibly talented Ms. Cross is) - this story unfold.

And the truth is, I still can't find the words to do this story justice so I'll leave you with this:

The bottom line...

If you're a fan of military romantic suspense and you haven't yet experienced Kaylea Cross's stories, you're not just missing out, you're missing out big time, because they're not just a story, they are an experience! And I know some of you are wondering, so I'll tell you now - yes, this book can be read out of order, but don't do it! Once you've read Lethal Pursuit I know you'll rush out to get the first two books, Deadly Descent and Tactical Strike so you might as well read them in order and get to know the incredible men and women who put their lives on the line and, in the process, found their happily ever afters, too.

My thanks to Carina Press and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this amazing story! It was...well... amazing!!

Moonlight on my Mind by Jennifer McQuiston

Description…

To ruin a man’s life once takes a regrettable mistake.

To do so twice takes a woman like Julianne Baxter.

Eleven months ago, Julianne’s statement to the authorities wrongly implicated Patrick, the new Earl of Haversham, in his older brother’s death. The chit is as much trouble as her red hair suggests, and just as captivating. Now she has impetuously tracked him to the wilds of Scotland, insisting that he return home to face a murder charge and save his family from ruin. A clandestine wedding may be the only way to save her reputation—and his neck from the hangman’s noose.

Julianne has no objection to the match. More and more she’s convinced of Patrick’s innocence, though when it comes to igniting her passions, the man is all too guilty. And if they can only clear his name, a marriage made in haste could bring about the most extraordinary pleasure…

***** 

Refreshing, entertaining, and passionate!

My review…

While I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in this connected-but-not-a-series series, Moonlight on my Mind totally blew those out of the water. It’s not as light as the first two – nor is it dark or depressing - it's perfect, and in a class of its own.

This truly is an awesome story with great characters, lots of passion, and a completely intriguing ‘whodunnit’ with enough twists and turns that kept me guessing at the killer’s identity right to the very end!

Julianne is a walking contradiction of what a “lady” should be, and I loved her after I got over hating her. Her passion, her devotion to Patrick and her need to do the right thing made her a woman I could adore. And Patrick is such a swoon-worthy man who also has a deeply ingrained - and at times annoyingly honorable - need to do the right thing, even if it means a trip to the gallows.

Apart they are amazing people, but together … unstoppable and a perfectly matched happily ever after.

The bottom line…

Jennifer McQuiston is a breath of fresh air in the historical romance genre! She has such a talent for storytelling, giving us charismatic, tormented in-their-own-special-way characters we can’t help but connect to and, ultimately, fall in love with!

My thanks to Avon Books for providing a copy of this wonderful story in exchange for an honest review! It was such a pleasure!   

Summer Is for Lovers by Jennifer McQuiston

Description…

His heart is unavailable.

Luckily, her interest lies in the rest of him…

Though she was just a girl when they first met, Caroline Tolbertson’s infatuation with David Cameron remains undimmed. Now fate has brought the handsome Scotsman back to Brighton for what promises to be an unforgettable summer. Soon, Caroline will have to choose a husband, but for now she is free to indulge her curiosity in things of a passionate nature.

That is, if David will agree to teach her.

Past mistakes have convinced David he’ll make a terrible husband, though he’ll gladly help the unconventional Caroline find a suitor. Unfortunately, she has something more scandalous in mind. As the contenders for her hand begin to line up, her future seems assured…provided David can do the honorable thing and let them have her.

When a spirited young woman is determined to break Society's rules, al a gentleman can do is lend a hand…or more.

4 romantic, passionate, engaging stars!

Summer Is for Lovers is the second book in Jennifer McQuiston’s connected but not-quite-a-series, historical romance novels. This story starts off strong with a prologue that got right to the heart of things, and kept me turning the pages, unable to put it down.

My quickie review…

There are many things to love about this story but, hands down, it’s David and Caroline who made this an absolute delight! To say this story is character driven is, in my opinion, putting it mildly. I adored Caroline’s ‘uniqueness’ amongst her ‘peers’ and found David’s self deprecation both poignant and humorous. Their quick wit, and hesitant (mostly) reaction to their undeniable sexual chemistry had me grinning, sighing, and fanning myself, often.

The bottom line…

If you’re a fan of historical romance and read everything you can get your hands on, then get your hands on Summer Is for Lovers. It’s fun, light, steamy, and romantic, and you’ll be glad you did!

My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.   

Perfection - A Neighbor From Hell Novel by R.L. Mathewson

Description…

Zoe is used to taking care of herself and has long ago accepted that if anything bad was going to happen, it was going to happen to her. So when she loses her job over something most bosses would probably be happy with and her life starts going down hill from there she doesn't expect it to get any better. She certainly didn't expect any help from the loud jerk next door, but then again she has nothing to lose so puts her trust in him and hopes for the best. What she didn't expect was the once in a lifetime opportunity that he offers her through an arrangement where they both benefit and no one is supposed to get hurt, but she should have known better because her luck has never been that good.

Like most Bradfords, Trevor has a soft spot for food, but that's about all. He leads a pretty straightforward life and likes to keep things simple and that includes his relationships. He wants the perfect woman and knows exactly what she'll be like. So when he discovers much to his horror that he's thinking about his frumpy little neighbor he decides the best way to get his head straight is by working her out of his system. He'll keep her around, but only until he finds perfection.

*****

A damned near perfect read !!

"Does no one care that she just manhandled me?" Trevor demanded, facing the men who should be properly outraged on his behalf.

Jason snorted. "As long as brings me food, she can bitch slap you and call you spanky."

Trevor narrowed his eyes on the men who dared laugh at his pain.

Betraying bastards.

Perfection is the second book in R.L. Mathewson’s Neighbor From Hell series and again, one helluva funny read. Like the first book, this one has laugh out loud dialog, romance, holy hell it's hot in here heat, and I couldn’t put it down!

My review…

At the risk of repeating myself… this is one of the funniest books I’ve ever read. The humor is silly humor, but still laugh out loud comical when you ‘hear’ what’s going through Trevor’s head. At first I was a little put off by the ‘fat’ comments from him and his friends, but the author does a great job of making them look like such moronic douche-waffles that I was actually giggling at their cluelessly callous remarks.

And also, just to say… this is one helluva hot story, too. The sexual chemistry between Trevor and Zoe burns up the pages and gives them a spot on my ‘sexiest couple’ shelf that I created with them in mind.

The bottom line…

This isn’t a tragic, compelling, tormented hero read. There are no deep, dark secrets, and no emotional roller-coaster rides. What this is, is a light, sexy romance, and more fun than I can find the words to express. Entertaining, start to finish, and I am soooooooo looking forward to reading more!  

Until There Was You by Jessica Scott

Description…

Though he plays by the rules, she’s not afraid to break them. Now these two strong-willed military leaders will prove that opposites attract . . . even under fire.

A by-the-book captain with a West Point background, Evan Loehr refuses to mix business with pleasure—except for an unguarded instance years ago when he succumbed to the deep sensuality of redheaded beauty Claire Montoya. Since that brief lapse in judgment, Evan has been at odds with her. But when he is asked to train a combat team alongside Claire, battle-hardened Evan is in for the fight of his life.

Strong, gutsy, and loyal, Captain Claire Montoya has worked hard to achieve her high military rank. In Evan Loehr, Claire sees a spoiled commander who puts the rules before everything else—including his people. Army orders force them together and Claire soon discovers that there is more to Evan than meets the eye. He too has dark secrets and deep longings. For all their differences, Evan and Claire share two crucial passions: their country and each other.

Opposites definite attract!

Until There Was You is the second book in Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series and another great story. The characters, the plot, everything about this book drew me in and didn't let me go.

My Review…

One of the things I most enjoy about this author’s way of telling a story is the unique, candid look we get into the behind-the-scenes, decision making process. These stories are not just blow 'em up, shoot 'em dead military romantic melees, though sure, there's some of that, too. But I really appreciate seeing the things that go into preparing our troops to go off to war.

Now, don't misunderstand, this isn't a politically driven storyline, rather a first hand look at what happens before, during, and after deployment, told the way only someone who has been there and done that can tell it, and Jessica Scott, a career Army officer, has been there and done that. The stories feel real, the characters genuine, and the relationships take time to develop, meaning the romances are believable... comfortable.

Evan and Claire's ongoing struggle to deny the attraction they feel for one another was at times heartbreaking, at times very sexy, but with more coitus interruptus than you can shake a stick at, it was also, at times, a bit frustrating. But their personal struggles, their intense need to always do the right thing made them people I cared deeply about and people I couldn't help but want to see work through their seemingly insurmountable issues to find the happily ever after they were both so deserving of.

The bottom line…

Each book in this series is a reading adventure, a truly entertaining experience. I love the characters, the plot, the way everything feels so real! I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!

My thanks to Ms. Scott for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Quickie Review of Lumberjack in Love by Penny Watson

City slicker Ami Jordan was just dumped by her back-stabbing boyfriend, has no job prospects, and can't find a decent cup of coffee in the entire state of Vermont. The last thing she needs is a sexy, bearded lumberjack complicating her life. Even if he’s smart, talented, and has the hottest ass she’s ever seen.

Tree house builder, environmental champion, and Bulldog owner Marcus Anderson has no patience for flatlanders with an attitude. But when landscape designer Ami Jordan shows up at his log cabin, he suddenly develops a hankering for a high-maintenance city gal. Now his house looks like a jungle, his recycling is in disarray, and his libido's on fire.

He's a lumberjack in love.

*****

4 'want to see my log?' lumberjack lovin' stars!

Lumberjack In Love is all kinds of romantic, all kinds of sexy, and all kinds of fun! Nothing too heavy, just a quick, delightful, entertaining story!

I'm definitely looking forward to reading more by Penny Watson!

Patience by Lisa Valdez

Description…

A woman called Patience.

A desire that would put her name—and love—to the test.

Known for her exceptional beauty, Patience Emmalina Dare has been pursued by admirers ever since coming of age. But as suitor after suitor fails to inspire her love, or her desire, she is certain she will never find a man who touches her deeply. Until a passionate kiss with an enigmatic man awakens a powerful need in her. But can she reconcile her desire for him with her desire for a life that's her own? And what will she do when he shows her a part of herself she never knew existed?

When the secret of his illegitimate birth pushes Matthew Morgan Hawkmore from his place in society, the darkly handsome half-brother of the Earl of Langley plots his resurrection and his revenge. Betrayed and abandoned by the women he believed loved him, he swears never again to be controlled by love. But despite his vow, he is unable to resist Patience, whose strength and self-reliance mask a need that he is perfectly suited to fulfull.

Intense, controversial, romantic....

Those of you who have read Passion know that most people either loved it or hated it, and the same holds true for Patience. I fall into the “love it” camp and will not apologize nor feel ashamed for doing so. The language and sexuality are just as raw and edgy in Patience as they were in Passion, so if you were hoping for a tamer book, you’ll be disappointed. I, however, loved it!

My review contains minor spoilers...

Wow! I loved this story!

Matthew is much different from the happy go lucky, carefree man he was in the last book, and who wouldn’t be? He’s learned that his entire life was based on a lie. “Friends” are nowhere to be found, business associates have not only abandoned him, but some are out to destroy him, not only financially, but totally and utterly destroy him, the man. He’s got a lot to deal with, to say the least, and all because his mother couldn’t keep her legs together. Thankfully, we don’t have to deal with her sorry ass in this book.

Patience has quite the story of her own to tell, one that we were not even given a clue to in Passion. Early on I had decided she was weak, needing to be told what to do, handled, etc. Wow, was I wrong. By the end of the book I had shed more than a few tears for her anguish, loss and loneliness. I came to see her as an incredibly strong woman who had to deal with all that life threw at her, and do it all on her own. I admire her greatly.

Again, Lisa Valdez gave us a story about two people who would have probably spent their entire lives alone had they not found each other. I love how they fit so well together, how they complement one another. Matthew and Patience are both amazing characters, fully developed people whom I became totally invested in. We also get to revisit a few of the earlier players. Aunt Matty, Mark, Passion and Prim all make appearances, just to name a few. And, if I’m correct, we meet Prim’s happily ever after in this book!

The sexual theme in Passion was “take me, open for me…” and the theme for Patience is “submit.” In their first scene together, Patience is given a small glimpse into what life with Matthew would be like. It was a hot scene, and I enjoyed it, but after they had been together a few times, I became worried that this book would cross boundaries I wasn’t ready to cross. While it did stretch the limits of my comfort zone, I can’t say that I found any part of it repulsive nor did anything really make me cringe—well, maybe I cringed a little bit—but it is my comfort zone we’re talking about and I know that by many standards, Patience is very tame. 

Let me see if I can better explain what I mean without giving away details. A year or so ago, I read a book where the female lead went looking for this particular male who was a known DOM. He had quite the reputation and she wanted only the best for her experimental journey into submission. Anyway, one evening she failed to follow an order he gave her and she shows up naked at a dinner party he was giving. Her punishment was that for the entire evening she had to stay at his side, naked, on hands and knees, never allowed to sit down or stand up. When he was seated, she had to kneel at his feet, or lay curled up like a dog. At one point she was placed in the middle of the room, on hands and knees, where everyone watched while one man spanked her as she was giving another man a blow job.

Patience is like a kid’s fairytale compared to that. 

However, it will still make some people uncomfortable and I totally get that which is why I’m trying to give as much warning as I can without giving away details. It's important to note that Matthew’s sexuality is what it is not because of what happened with his mother, but he states that it’s always been a part of him. He's not cruel or abusive and at no time is Patience forced to do something she doesn't want to. She can say ‘no’ at any time, which is part of why the story didn’t turn me off early on. I knew that she was ok with the entire arrangement and that Matthew cared deeply for her, and nothing on his part was done out of anger.

The story, while a continuation of the mess that was revealed in Passion, actually didn’t dwell too much on it. It was more about how Matthew was trying to stay afloat in a world where being a bastard was almost, if not as bad, as being a thief, a whore or a murderer. With Patience’s gentle ways and guidance, and her unconditional love, Matthew learns what it really means to be a rich man—and it has nothing to do with monetary wealth. The question that had to be answered was, could he set aside his bitterness and all of his plans for revenge in order to be worthy of being the kind of man he knew Patience deserved.

The bottom line…

This book is a little more emotionally and sexually intense than Passion. I found it hard to put down and like Mark and Passion did, Matthew and Patience have given me much to think about! I’m looking forward to visiting with them again soon in the next book.

Sexual content... Light bondage, heavy spanking, domination/submission. No anal, no ménage, no display or humiliation. 

Passion by Lisa Valdez

Description…

In her second year of mourning, lovely, young widow Passion Elizabeth Dare never dreamed she would be with a man again—and certainly not a complete stranger. But amidst the crowds of London's Crystal Palace, Passion finds herself discreetly, yet insistently, pursued by a sensual  gentleman who awakens her long-supressed desires. After a loveless marriage of restrained propriety, Passion abandons herself to true bliss for the first time.

Intoxicated by his encounter with the beautiful stranger, Mark Randolph Hawkmore, Earl of Langley, cannot wait to see her again. As a series of rapturous rendezvous follows, he and his mystery lover find something rare and wonderful blossoming between them. But a blackmail scheme against the Earl threatens to destroy everything. As a scandal brews, each will have to choose between duty and desire...their love for their families—and their love for each other.

***** 

Passionate, scintillating, romantic, and erotic!

I absolutely loved this book, though I don’t know if I can put into words all the reasons why and do this story justice because it’s more than just a book...It’s an exciting escape into sexual fantasy, a touching love story, and a happily ever after to rival the best of them.

My review contains minor spoilers…

From the beginning, I was hooked! The prologue alone grabbed my attention and had me thinking Hmmm… there’s going to be trouble in paradise… Then chapter one starts off with one of the most passionate sexual encounters I’ve ever read, between two people who had never before met, in a place where the odds are very good that they’ll get caught. Talk about hot! These few pages alone made this book worth buying.

Now let’s talk about the main characters themselves, whom I adore. Mark and Passion are total opposites, but we know what they say about opposites attracting, right? Mark is one of those heroes that I am instantly drawn to; the kind who has built a fortress around his heart, not believing that true love can exist between a man and a woman, and especially not for him. Other than his father and his brother Matt, Mark has never cared for anyone and doesn’t believe that anyone, except for them, has ever cared about him. He is bored with society and cynical – trusting very few people. It’s as if he is in the world, but not truly part of it. He functions, going about his daily life and enjoying his work as a respected architect, but the feeling I get is that he’s a man who stands back and watches while everyone else lives and he merely exists.

Passion is the eldest daughter of a “man of the cloth” and was named for Passion Sunday, the day on which she was born. She is a widow who is just about to come out of a long, 2 year mourning. Her marriage was not a good one, and their sex life was dismal – well, hers was. Her husband seemed to enjoy himself rather frequently, and with everyone but Passion. She’s in no hurry to remarry which is part of the reason she stayed in mourning so much longer – according to her aunt – than was necessary.

Fortunately for them, and us, a most unfortunate turn of events bring Mark and Passion together in an exhibit hall at the Crystal Palace where they find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another. Their curiosity, desire and longing for something…different… sweeps them up in a torrent of passion where they share their bodies in an uninhibited, almost primitive, need for sexual fulfillment. Their encounter leaves them both sated and yet hungry for more, but having parted without even exchanging names, they may never again see one another. After returning to their homes that day, they are unable to forget their encounter and are left wondering what might happen next – if that passion could possibly be recaptured. They both, each on their own, decide to return to the Crystal Palace the next day in hopes of meeting again and finding out if they can repeat what they had shared, or if it was just a onetime marvel. They were not disappointed at this second meeting – or at the many that followed. The storyline itself is excellent! I love the suspense, the betrayals, the grief, the scheming and most importantly, the deep family ties that see these amazing people through all the heartache they must go through. And when all is said and done, they are so much stronger for having endured it.

In addition to Mark and Passion, we have Matthew, Mark’s brother as well as Patience and Primrose who are Passion’s sisters and will be featured in their own books. And we can’t forget poor cousin Charlotte who is her mother’s pawn through all this and well deserving of her own story. All of these characters are warm, loving people who I adore. Another person I came to care about is John Crossman, a young man who had begun to have feelings for Passion, but quickly realized, even before she did, that her heart was bound elsewhere. I hope to see him play a prominent role in future books and would be thrilled if he found his own happily ever after in one of them.

I really can’t stress enough that this book should not be looked at as just another erotic novel where page after page is devoted to words describing sexual acts. Though the sexual tension in this book is through the roof amazing and the writing of those scenes is breathtakingly erotic and primitive – it’s so much more than that. This is a heartwarming story about 2 lonely people who, as the walls they have built around their hearts finally begin to crumble, find in one another that one other person in the world who can fill their soul’s emptiness and make them whole again.

The bottom line…

It’s not often that I find a book where I adore both the hero and heroine equally, but Passion is one of those rare instances where it all comes together perfectly for me. And while, as I've said, the sensuality of this book is amazing, it's Mark and Passion's relationship that has given them a place on my list of all time favorite couples and made this a 5 star read. I will come back to this book again and again just to have the chance to spend time with them.

One last thing - I just read the excerpt for Patience at the end of the book and let me just say... you don't want to miss that. So when you finish reading Passion, keep turning the pages for the excerpt of Patience. ***fanning myself***

Sexual Content: While this book is loaded with sexual situations and very erotic, there is no ménage, anal sex or BDSM.

Back to You by Jessica Scott

Description…

He's in for the fight of his life . . .

Army captain Trent Davila loved his wife, Laura, and their two beautiful children. But when he almost lost his life in combat, something inside him died. He couldn't explain the emptiness he felt or bridge the growing distance between him and his family—so he deployed again. And again. And again . . . until his marriage reached its breaking point. Now, with everything on the line, Trent has one last chance to prove to his wife that he can be the man she needs . . . if she'll have him

. . . to win back his only love.

Laura is blindsided when Trent returns home. Time and again, he chose his men over his family, and she's just beginning to put the pieces of her shattered heart back together. But when Trent faces a court martial on false charges, only Laura can save him. What begins as an act of kindness to protect his career inflames a desire she thought long buried—and a love that won't be denied. But can she trust that this time he's back to stay?

***** 

Made me cry, made me sigh, made me believe that with love, anything is possible!

Back to You is the third book in Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series. It follows the story of Trent and Laura and the slow disintegration of their marriage due to Trent’s love affair with his other wife, the Army. I was dreading this story with as much passion as I was needing it. Dreading it because of the allegations against Trent, and desperately needing it because, deep down, I knew those allegations couldn't be true, and I needed to see it play out. And play out, right before our eyes, it did.

My review…

I have to tell you, this is one of the best 'one more chance' and military romances I’ve ever read. It gutted me at the same time it uplifted me. It broke my heart while making me fall in love. Start to finish I was completely invested in Trent and Laura’s happiness, cheering them on one minute and crying for them the next. Ms. Scott did a brilliant job of showing us a different side to the casualties of war – the slow, painful, emotional death of a military family. But the real beauty of this story is watching these two amazing people refuse to give up on each other, or themselves, and work to put their family back together again. Their happily ever after was hard fought and well deserved!

The bottom line…

Don’t waste time reading reviews of these books, just buy the books and enjoy the time you spend reading them! Seriously, just do it. But I strongly recommend they be read in order so you know exactly what has taken place, and why Back to You is such a beautiful love story!

My thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishers) and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this amazing story in exchange for an honest review.