Divergent Bloodline by T.J. Shaw

Divergent Bloodline is T.J. Shaw's newest novel and it's one exciting story!

Blurb:

While tracking down a killer, clues lead homicide detective, Viviane Taylor to suspect, Julian DeMatteo. From the get-go, DeMatteo unsettles and irritates her. He is a force she has never encountered, someone who excites her even though he is forbidden. Her instincts warn that he’s hiding something and she is determined to uncover those secrets.

As king of the vampires, Julian DeMatteo protects the immortal clans. So, when the beautiful, bullheaded cop embroils herself within his world, he must choose between the woman who reminds him of the humanity he has lost or his loyalty to his people.
As confusing emotions awaken inside her, Viviane can either accept her fate as the one chosen to save the immortal race or lose her soul to darkness. With Julian’s help, she fights an evil that would rip her apart in order to forge a new future with the homicide suspect who has stolen her heart.

*****

I am a vampire genre junkie so when Ms. Shaw asked me to read and review Divergent Bloodline I was both thrilled and apprehensive. Thrilled because I haven't read a great vampire book lately and needed a 'fix', and apprehensive because none of the vamp stories I've recently read have WOW'd me and I was concerned that maybe I was becoming bored with what has been my favorite PNR genre.

Anyway - my apprehension was for naught! Julian and Viviane are people I came to care about, who kept me reading into the wee hours of the morning because I simply had to see how they'd work things out and come together for their happy eternally after.

The bottom line - Divergent Bloodline is fast paced, exciting, edgy, romantic, and passionate. I wavered between 4 and 5 stars but decided to round it up because the world Ms. Shaw has created has the makings of a great series and I am truly hopeful that she continues writing it.

An eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Jabril (Vampires in America #2) by D.B. Reynolds

Jabril is a continuation of book 1, Raphael, and a more brutal, heartless, evil vampire I’ve yet to meet than Jabril. He is not a good guy. He is not redeemable. He is nothing but evil, through and through. And no, I didn’t love him in spite of his flaws as I do so many alpha vamps. The thing is – the title is kind of misleading for most romance fans because while, yes, this is about Jabril, this isn't about him finding his happily ever after. There's no love interest (for him), no poor misunderstood male… he’s just the worse kind of evil, and this is his story.

Blurb

Houston, Texas-Cowboy boots, baseball and journeys to the stars . . . right? Wrong. Because Houston is also home to Jabril Karim, one of the eight powerful Vampire Lords who control all of North America. And as Private Investigator Cynthia Leighton will soon discover, not all Vampire Lords are created equal. For Jabril is the face of evil in the new world, a vampire who values no life but his own, who enslaves those he desires, steals whatever he covets and destroys anyone who stands in his way.

Running from L.A. and its seductive Vampire Lord, Raphael, Cyn sees the Houston job as a welcome refuge, a place to get away and heal her broken heart. But Texas will be no vacation. For in Jabril Karim, Cyn will confront a true enemy, one who will go to any lengths to satisfy his lusts, enrich his coffers and expand his power. Fighting for the lives of two young sisters, Cyn's journey will take her through the streets of Houston and back to L.A., where the human police are determined to bring Raphael down for the murder of one of their own. But the danger doesn't end there. For Jabril has set his sights on Cyn, and he will stop at nothing to have her.

Okay, so…

Any vampire with half a brain would know that messing with the woman Raphael’s claimed as his will not lead to good things, true, so this story is brutal, gory, harsh, violent… and it’s one of the best vampire stories I’ve ever read. I’m not going to go into much, but trust me on this… if you’re done with (or just need a break from) glittery, ethical vampires, and love to see bad guys go down hard… READ THIS BOOK! But first, you MUST read Raphael to understand the dynamics of this incredible world created by the very talented D.B. Reynolds.

As I said, it's a continuation of Raphael, and I'm happy to report that Raphael and Cyn finally pull their heads outta their rear-ends and are well on their way to their happily ever after!!

Thank the Kindle gods, I have the next several books already loaded and ready to devour!!!!!!!!!!

The Night Belongs to Fireman (Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel #6) by Jennifer Bernard

THE BACHELOR FIREMEN OF SAN GABRIEL is one of my favorite series. I love the stories, the passion, the humor, the people, the firefighter family...I love everything about it, and books like The Night Belongs To Fireman is why!

Blurb...

Daring . . . Sexy . . . Irresistible . . .
They're the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel

When fireman Fred Breen rescues a bachelorette party after a construction crane collapses onto their limo, the media labels him the "Bachelor Hero." But all Fred can think about is the petite brunette with the sexy mane of dark curls who bolted away from him faster than a wildfire after he carried her to safety. And when he discovers she's none other than Rachel Kessler, the daughter of a tech billionaire, the girl whose kidnapping riveted the nation, he intends to learn every intimate detail about this intriguing woman who sets his pulse on fire.

Rachel can't deny the lean-muscled firefighter is smokin' hot. But after having one too many drinks at the bar where she first meets him, Rachel knows she's made a fool of herself. Yet when he rescues her from the limo, she feels safe for the first time since she was held for ransom as a child. Then her overprotective father insists Fred be her bodyguard—and his close presence kindles a burning desire that only he can extinguish.

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

Jennifer Bernard puts a lot of research into these stories, as well as a lot of heart and soul. I find myself always drawn in and enjoying every minute spent reading about these brave, selfless, very hot firemen.

Fred is probably the most down-to-earth man in the series. He's not tortured or tormented, but not exactly self assured. I mean, yeah, he knows his job and does it well, but with a father and brothers who served the military, he sometimes feels like he's not quite enough. But trust me, Fred's got it goin' on. In a big way!

Rachel - I really like her! She's had a sheltered life, but she's not naive. She's a caring, compassionate woman and yeah, I really like her. Especially the way she loves Fred with her entire being...the same way he loves her.

**sigh**

Okay, I'm getting all mushy now so I'll close this down except to say, if you enjoy fun, sexy, sometimes poignant contemporary romance with real alpha males, do yourself a favor and read these books! I know you'll be glad you did!

An ARC was provided by Avon Books via Edelweiss.

All Lined Up (Rusk University #1) by Cora Carmack

Description…

In Texas, two things are cherished above all else—football and gossip. My life has always been ruled by both.

Dallas Cole loathes football. That's what happens when you spend your whole childhood coming in second to a sport. College is her time to step out of the bleachers, and put the playing field (and the players) in her past.

But life doesn't always go as planned. As if going to the same college as her football star ex wasn’t bad enough, her father, a Texas high school coaching phenom, has decided to make the jump to college ball… as the new head coach at Rusk University. Dallas finds herself in the shadows of her father and football all over again.

Carson McClain is determined to go from second-string quarterback to the starting line-up. He needs the scholarship and the future that football provides. But when a beautiful redhead literally falls into his life, his focus is more than tested. It's obliterated.

Dallas doesn't know Carson is on the team. Carson doesn't know that Dallas is his new coach's daughter.

And neither of them know how to walk away from the attraction they feel.

************** 

All Lined Up is the first in Cora Carmack’s Rusk University series. It’s a New Adult story and because I am not a fan of that genre, I didn’t think I’d enjoy it much. Was I ever wrong!

My review…

My biggest beef with the New Adult genre isn’t so much about the stories themselves but about where I am in my own life and what I want to read. Though I suppose I do fall into the New Adult age group of early 20s to 30s – having been 27 years old for far longer than I want to admit – I just can’t cope with the angst and the drama and the relationship hogwash that seems to go hand in hand with these stories. That said, yes there was some of that here, but there was also something so sweet, so fun, so romantic, so sexy, so inspiring, so, so right about All Lined Up that I couldn’t help but love it!

Dallas and Carson are great characters who stole my heart! They live and love like people who have their hopes and dreams laid out before them, theirs for the taking if they only reach for them, work for them, earn them - because they are those people! How could I not love them?

The bottom line…

The New Adult genre gets a lot of grief from readers but the truth is, it fills a very important niche in romance reading. If you’ve stayed clear of it because you just don’t want the relationship garbage and added angst in your escapism reading, I urge you to give this story a try. In a genre filled with too much of the same old, same old, Cora Carmack is an exciting, fresh voice and her Rusk University series promises to be a winner!

An eARC of All Lined Up was provided by Avon Books via Edelweiss, and in return I’m giving them an honest review.

The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo (Love At Stake) by Kerrelyn Sparks

He's Out of Control

Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he's ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo.

Vampires? Vampires?! As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There's even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal's gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him—and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored?

*****

This 14th installment in the Love at Stake series has all the things Kerrelyn Sparks fans have come to expect; humor, romance, passion, and a great story of the continued battle between our beloved Vampires and the Malcontents.

I haven’t read all the books in this series, but that didn’t create any problems for me. Things that took place in earlier books – especially in regards to how the other couples met their mates – are peppered throughout the story so that we get a pretty good idea of the whos, whats, whens, wheres, and whys. And honestly, these are light, entertaining reads, perfect for those times when you’re looking to let your mind wander and get lost in a world of great characters and their unlikely circumstances.

I really enjoyed The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo, but it was Dougal who made this story shine. Such an awesome, honorable, fierce, passionate man! And did I mention vulnerable? His insecurities made were so endearing and made me want to bring him home with me and love him til his past heartbreak was forgotten.

My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story. In return I’m giving them an honest review.

Skies of Gold (The Ether Chronicles) by Zoe Archer

Description…

Two Lonely Hearts…

Kalindi MacNeil survived the devastating enemy airship attack that obliterated Liverpool, but even her engineering skills can’t seem to repair her broken heart. Seeking to put her life back together, Kali retreats to a desolate, deserted island—only to discover she’s not alone. Captain Fletcher Adams, an elite man/machine hybrid, a Man O’ War, crashed his battle-damaged airship into this deserted island after Liverpool, never expecting to survive the wreck. But survive he did.

One Desire…

Believing he is nothing but a living weapon, Fletcher is wary of his new-found companion—a pretty, damaged, but determined young woman. Together they are stranded on the deserted island, and it is only a matter of time until desire gets the best of both of them. Soon Kali and Fletcher find they may be just what the other needed. But a danger from beyond the island puts them to the test. Will it rip them apart or bond their hearts forever?

********* 

"Sodding damn. She'd ruined his perfect loneliness."

I’m not a huge fan of science fiction, not real big on fantasy, either… but Steampunk, when done right, really turns my crank! And make no mistake about it, Zoë Archer does Steampunk right.

My review…

Skies of Gold is the fifth book in The Ether Chronicles series. I’ve had this book sitting on my Kindle for almost a year, but because of my affliction with MR BIOS – Must Read Books In Order Syndrome – I kept putting it off until another of my afflictions – MR ABE – Must Read All Books Eventually – made it so I couldn’t put it off any longer.

I’ve been a fan of Zoë Archer’s storytelling for some time now, but honestly, Skies of Gold might just be my favorite story. There’s something so compelling about this world she’s created, something so plausible even in its implausibility. And it’s not just the story she’s telling, it’s the characters who are living the story - Kali and Fletcher are both people I came to care about. Their honor and integrity, their strengths as well as their vulnerabilities – everything about them drew me in and made me love them.

The bottom line…

I really am sorry I waited so long to read this! Skies of Gold is such a fun, romantic, exciting, passionate story. It’s sexy but not toooo sexy, with the real appeal and entertainment here being found in the story itself and in the amazing Kali and Fletcher. As I said, when Steampunk is done right, it ROCKS, and I’ll definitely be reading more of The Ether Chronicles.

Note... I can, without hesitation, say that Skies of Gold can be read out of order, and even works very well as a stand-alone novel.

An eARC of this story was provided by Avon Books via Edelweiss. In return I’m providing them with an honest review.

Blithely Bookish Spotlights Author AJ Wiliams

Title: His Final Bounty
Series: Bounty for Hire #4
Author: AJ Wiliams
Release Date: 3/24/14
Publisher: Self
Genre: Contemporary Spicy Romance

Welcome to Spotlight on AJ Wiliams

A.J. Wiliams and I have been online buddies for a few years, now. We met back when we both wrote fan-fiction as Sisters of the Black Dagger Brotherhood and she’s the first of my friends to actually write a book and publish it. I’m very excited to have her as a guest for my first Author Spotlight.

Me:  AJ, I’m thrilled to have you here with me today!  I’m dying to know – what is it like to be a published author?  What made you decide to take the plunge, and was it scary?

AJ:  Thanks for having me here....

It's fun and stressful publishing a book.

I decided to take the plunge after writing in the BDB Sisters forum. Having the freedom to write with a group of women that not only enjoyed what I wrote but also encouraged me. It was liberating. I even dedicated my first book to my BDB Sisters. I always thought about getting my love for writing out into the world but never felt that I had the courage to do it. I really owe my thanks to my BDB Sisters. Each one offered something encouraging that allowed me to take pieces of them with me on this journey.

I have my fourth book out and I have to say I am just as scared as the first time. I have a feeling this emotion will not change. It is the usual normal questions of will people like it? Will they feel the emotion of the characters?

I have several books that I am currently working on right now with the hopes to have at least one of them published by the end of the year.

Me: I enjoyed the time we spent writing fan-fiction together and the way you tell a story. And because you're my first Spotlighted Author, I have a surprise for you! You've been gifted a one-month Bookshelf ad at Affaire de Coeur Magazine: http://affairedecoeur.com/Chapter%20Previews/2014/hisfinalbounty.html

I'm so proud of what you've accomplished and I wish you all the best success!

His Final Bounty Book Blurb:

Eva Rosenberg hacks a secret file of Jefferson's and discovers the man who shattered her heart and her world has one giant secret.

Jefferson Anders’ current bounty hunting status has allowed him to hide in the shadows, never forcing him to face the secrets of his past. Having spent five years hiding the truth, he never dreamed the secrets of his past would catch up to him. Secrets which cost him both the love of his life and connection to his family. Now, he must face the mistakes of his past.

With a confrontation looming with Eva and a possible death threat, they must work as a team to find forgiveness and defeat the enemy that waits in the shadows.

Purchase Links:

Click to visit and purchase from author's website

Click to purchase at Barnes and Noble

Click to Purchase at Amazon

Click to purchase at All Romance Books: 

Click to purchase at Smashwords


Author Information:

AJ grew up in a small southern town in Missouri. It was there that she discovered her love of writing. Having the ability to create a story from nothing into something held her spellbound. She holds a bachelors degree, and will on occasion find it useful. Currently, AJ lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with her husband, their two small children and two dogs.

AJ loves learning about new things, playing games with her family, and listening to music. She loves romantic movies as well as science fiction. If truth be told, she loves fantasy and science fiction movies just a little bit more.

At given time she can be found letting her kids believe she has super powers.

Author Links: For more information about AJ Williams and upcoming books, follow her @ Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and her website where you can sign up to be a street team member and subscribe to her newsletter.

AJ at Affaire de Coeur Magazine:  http://affairedecoeur.com/Chapter%20Previews/2014/hisfinalbounty.html
Website: www.ajwiliams.com
Blog: http://ajwiliamsromanceauthor.blogspot.com/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AjWiliams
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AJ_Wiliams
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AJWiliams
Pintrest: http://www.pinterest.com/ajwiliams/

Excerpt:

Eva wasn’t sure when it happened, but her body called to her in a way that she hadn’t felt in years. After all this time, he still wore Ralph Lauren Polo Black. She loved that smell. Her reaction to him spurred her body closer to his, lightly brushing her nipples against his side. Every sensation from Jefferson rubbing her back, to her tracing circles on his chest increased her breathing. Her nipples tightened and the dampness increased between her legs.

“Jefferson.” Her voice was soft as she moved her finger to his nipple in a sensual circle.

“Eva,” his growl pressed her to continue. There was something about the way he growled her name that caused her to stop circling and started to use her fingers to rub his nipple with her thumb and finger.

“You have to stop.”

Lifting her head up from his chest, she kept rubbing his nipple as she looked into his eyes.

“Tonight, please just give me this one night. After that, we will go our separate ways. I just need to feel you.”

“There will never be ‘just one night’ with us, Eva. If we do this, it’s for keeps. Do you understand? I could never let you walk away, nor would I allow myself to walk away from you again.”

His word slammed over her. His eyes danced in the light. She could see that he too needed tonight. As much as she wanted more nights, she didn’t think she could ever give him more. Then again, maybe she could, but it all depended on him. She had the truth, but it didn’t really ease the hurt she still felt in her heart.

She didn’t respond at first, as her thoughts rolled through her mind.

“Tonight please, Jefferson. Just tonight.”

“I’ll give you tonight, but we will talk,” he declared.

She didn’t want to talk. She wanted all or nothing and tonight it was all. If she couldn’t have tonight, then she could go back to having nothing in her life. She’d had five years of practice. What was another fifty? She nodded edging closer to his body.

“I mean it, Eva.”

She didn’t trust herself to say anything, afraid she might say no talking, just fucking, because that’s all she wanted. She nodded again, placing a light kiss on his chest.

Lifting her head up she gazed into his dark eyes, waiting to see if he understood or at least accepted her response. He moved over, roaming her face and then his eyes narrow for just a second.

Please, she begged silently for him to just give her now.

She touched her lips to his. It was ecstasy. His full lips upon hers. At first, he didn’t move, so she gave his nipple a pinch, causing him to open his mouth.

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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.

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

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.

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.   

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!

WANTED: Wife by Gwen Jones

Andy Devine is advertising for a wife on a utility pole, and interviewing him is the last thing TV reporter Julie Knott needs. Especially after her cheating fiancé just tweeted their disengagement. Now she has got to choose: 

Get the story — or become it?

WANTED: Wife

Landed, Financially Secure 40-Yr-Old Male

* Handsome, but with old-school communication skills and a secret past *

Seeks Healthy, Athletic Female

* Preferably a pretty reporter with a messy love life who has never spent a day in the woods *

For Marriage and Family

* What could possibly go wrong? *

Fresh, quirky, loaded with fun... such a cute, romantic, sexy story! 

When reporter Julie Knott answers an advertisement placed on a utility pole by a man wanting to interview potential wives, she does so in hopes of a story, never dreaming she'd end up his wife. But that's exactly what happens when one disaster after another makes Andy Devine her last hope of salvaging her career and her self respect.

Life with Andy is more than Julie could have ever imagined it would be, and Andy feels the same way about her. They get along well, bot in bed and out, and given life on the farm, that's saying a lot. Things are going better than either could have hoped for until, that is, Julie utters the "love" word and quickly discovers there's so much more to Andy than meets the eye, and it's heartbreaking.

Can Julie find a way through the fortress Andy has built around his heart so they can find a happily ever after despite the odds, or are Andy's secrets too much for them to overcome?

I can't even tell you what a surprising delight WANTED: Wife turned out to be. There's so much more to this story than just a cutesy contemporary romance, and I enjoyed every single bit of it! Andy is a super sexy French talkin' hottie and I want an Andy for myself!

I'm blown away by the idea that this is Gwen Jones' debut novel, because it doesn't read like one at all. Ms. Jones is an incredibly gifted storyteller and I'm looking forward to reading more!

ARC provided by Avon Books in exchange for an honest review.

Vampire Most Wanted by Lynsay Sands - And An Argeneau Series Primer

Take a road trip with the undead . . . in this latest in the argeneau series by New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands 

For Basha Argeneau, anything is better than facing her estranged family. Even hiding out in sweltering southern California. But when a sexy immortal in black shows up determined to bring her back to the clan, she'll do anything to keep far, far away from the past she can't outrun. 

Marcus Notte isn't here to play games—especially not with someone as crazy as the infamous blonde. Asked by Lucian Argeneau to bring her back for questioning, Marcus is determined to carry out Lucian's request—no matter how the seductive little mind-reading vamp feels about it. 

Basha doesn't mind fighting fire with fire, especially with a hot immortal involved. But if he wants to take her away, he'll have to catch her first . . . 

***

To celebrate 10 years and the soon to be released 20th book in the series, we're giving you an Argeneau Vampire Primer and Reference Guide! These handy visuals will help newcomers keep up with the series and will give long time readers a fun trip down memory lane!

We hope you'll enjoy our little gift! 

Click Images Below to View Full Size

Blue By You by Rachel Gibson

Rachel Gibson, the New York Times bestselling author of Crazy On You and Rescue Me, once again shows that there's nothing quite like a man in uniform!

They say you never forget your first time, but there's nothing Blue Butler and Kasper Pennington would rather forget than their brief but fiery teenage love affair. Yeah, it was hot while it lasted, but then he went off to join the Marines, leaving Blue in New Orleans. She's tried to block him from her mind for good, but nothing can really erase the feeling she had when she was with him.

And now he's got the nerve to return—leaner, meaner, and strong enough to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless. Blue's a successful businesswoman now, with no time to figure out what went wrong all those years ago. But Kasper knows she's the one woman for him … and now he's got to prove it to her all over again.

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

My Quickie (Review)

Blue By You is a second chance romance, and wonderful story with so much passion packed into just 144 pages. It's my first experience with Rachel Gibson's writing, and it most certainly will not be my last!

ARC provided by Avon in exchange for an honest review.     

How to Run With A Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper

How to Run With A Naked Werewolf is the third book in Molly Harper’s Naked Werewolf series, and probably my favorite of the three. It’s fun, sassy, sexy, exciting… entertaining, start to finish!

Molly Harper is one funny author! She’s got a talent for writing stories that pull me in and don’t let go because they’re not only interesting, but romantic and witty, too. The dialogs – both spoken and internal - are filled with tongue in cheek humor, and I find that I just can’t help but fall in love with the main couples, over and over again.

This particular story was a bit more angsty and poignant as it touches on spousal abuse in some of its darkest forms. While it wasn’t terribly graphic, there’s enough there to know that things were not pretty. It tore my heart out to know what Anna endured and gave me the insights I needed to understand why she continually runs, especially from the people she cares about.

I simply adored Caleb! There was something so naïve and vulnerable about him and yet, so extraordinarily alpha, too. His desire to protect Anna from harm while at the same time allow her to be herself was absolutely endearing and has made him my favorite hero of the series, so far.

Despite Anna’s background, she was just plain fun! I loved how she thought she was being so clever, pulling the wool over Caleb’s eyes, only to learn that regardless of what she did, he still loved her. This added a certain… something… to their relationship that had me cheering them on towards their happily ever after!

My thanks to Pocket Books and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review. I loved it!

Throwing Heat by Jennifer Seasons

The sexy baseball players of Jennifer Seasons' Diamonds and Dugouts series slide into home with a final fiery romance worthy of a World Series win.

Nightclub manager Leslie Cutter has never been one to back down from a bet. So when Peter Kowalskin, pitcher for the Denver Rush baseball team, bets her that she can't keep her hands off of him, she's not about to let the arrogant, gorgeous playboy win. Especially when the prize could put her business on the map. She's got this in the bag, just so long as she can stay out of his arms … and his bed.

Peter struck out once before with Leslie, but this bet is sure to be the second chance he's been waiting for. Determined to stoke the passion he knows is there, he'll do anything to win—even if it means playing a little dirty.

But as things heat up, this combustible pair will have to decide just how much they're willing to wager on one another … and on a future that just might last forever.

********** 

4.5 fun, sexy, exciting stars!

I just adore Jennifer Seasons’ Diamonds and Dugouts series, and with Throwing Heat she’s hit another home run!

My review

Diamonds and Dugouts is one of my favorite Contemporary Romance series because each book and each character has so much passion, so much life that I can’t help but become invested in their story and attached to the people, each and every time.

I hope I’m wrong, but based on the blurb calling this “a final fiery romance” that this might be the last book? I sure hope not because I absolutely love the Rush world and its players and can’t get enough!

The bottom line

Throwing Heat is a fun, sassy, sexy story, but there was some serious emotional depth to this one, too. Who knew I could love a heroine who would work so hard to keep the hero at arms length? And who knew that hero, a cocky, sexy, ‘I need no one’ MLB pitcher could be so vulnerable!?! But it’s that vulnerability that made me want to bring Peter home and love him all better, and that made me round this up to a 5 star read.

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

Books in the Diamonds and Dugouts series:

How to Run with A Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper

How to Run with A Naked Werewolf is the third book in Molly Harper’s Naked Werewolf series, and probably my favorite of the series, so far. It’s fun, sassy, sexy, exciting… entertaining, start to finish!

Cover Blurb:

Caleb Graham is a werewolf by nature, a tracker by profession. He uses his “extra gifts” to find people, and not always in the most legal or ethical manner. He doesn’t care what they’ve done, or who wants them found, as long as his considerable fee is paid. He likes his life simple and uncomplicated.

Anna Moder, former physician to Caleb’s pack, happens across Caleb during a particularly violent “negotiation” that has left him bloodied and unconscious. She helps him, despite the fact that he’s cost her a car, so he insists that she stay with him on the road for a while. As they grow closer, Anna looks past the gruff exterior and and the questionable job to thoroughly decent werewolf underneath.

Anna – who is careful to edit her involvement with Caleb’s pack from their conversations – doesn’t talk about why a nice girl wants to live in the middle of frozen nowhere, but she’s obviously on the run from something. When Anna’s past collides with Caleb’s current assignment from one of his sleazier contacts, Caleb finally has to make a choice—protect his job…or his potential mate?

Full review to come, closer to release date!

Available for pre-order -

Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors by Molly Harper, Narrated by Amanda Ronconi

Just as Jane Jameson’s unlife seems to be stabilizing, fate sinks its fangs firmly into her butt. Despite her near-phobia of all things marital, her no-frills nighttime nuptials to her sexy boyfriend Gabriel are coming along smoothly. But the road to wedded bliss gets bumpy when a teenage acquaintance is fatally wounded in front of Jane’s shop and she turns him to save his life. The Council pronounces Jane responsible for the newborn vamp until he can control his thirst.

Jane’s kitchen at River Oaks barely holds enough Faux Type O to satiate the cute teen’s appetite and maintain Gabriel’s jealous streak at a slow simmer. As if keeping her hyperactive childe from sucking the blood out of the entire neighborhood isn’t enough to deal with, the persnickety ghost of Jane’s newly deceased Grandma Ruthie has declared a war on the fanged residents of River Oaks. Suddenly,
choosing monogrammed cocktail napkins and a cake that she can’t eat seems downright relaxing in comparison.

Tensions inside the house are growing…and outside, a sinister force is aiming a stake straight for the center of Gabriel’s heart. Most brides just have to worry about choosing the right dress, but Jane fears that at this rate, she’ll never make it down the aisle for the wedding all nice girls dream of…

*********

Nice Girls Don’t Bite Their Neighbors is the fourth in Molly Harper’s Jane Jameson books, and not only a great end to the series, but a nice segue to the spin-off series, Half Moon Hollow.

Jane and Gabriel are finally getting married, but this wouldn’t be Jane Jameson’s undead life if things went smoothly. Ghosts, ghouls, vampires, shifters… you name it and they’re part of Jane's world. Some are funny, some are annoying, some are charming, and some are damed sexy, but all can be counted on to keep things interesting.

I’ve really enjoyed this entire series. The books are witty, easy reads, and Amanda Ronconi does a fantastic job narrating them. But whether you read or listen, you’re sure to be thoroughly entertained.

I highly recommend these books for fans of light urban fantasy and paranormal romance.  

Swag Me Baby! It's a Giveaway! Throwing Heat by Jennifer Seasons

About the book: 

 With the World Series just around the corner, fans of baseball and steamy romances alike will LOVE Jennifer Seasons final installment in the Diamonds and Dugouts series, THROWING HEAT (available now, Avon Impulse, e-book ISBN: 9780062271488, $1.99). The team’s own World Series may be on the horizon, but with a second chance at love at his fingertips, there’s more at stake for sexy pitcher Peter Kowalskin than just the game! Fans have been eagerly awaiting Peter and Leslie’s story, and there’s no denying the passion between this combustible pair. Filled with playful antics, steamy scenes, and an exhilarating love story, THROWING HEAT slides into home as the final fiery romance of the Diamonds and Dugouts series—one worthy of a World Series win. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Or Purchase Here:

In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks, Narrated by Kirsten Potter

A Fun, Romantic, Sexy Tale!

In Bed with a Highlander is the first book in the McCabe Trilogy, a sexy, romantic, fun historical romance written by the very talented Maya Banks. I thoroughly enjoyed this story with its twists and turns, wonderful characters, sweet romance and the steamy sex that Ms. Banks writes so well.

The Story

The story opens with Mairin Stewart being kidnapped from the nunnery she’d spent most of her life hiding away in. The illegitimate daughter of the king, Mairin is heiress to strategic, prized land, and the man who marries her will make his Clan a force to be reckoned with, a power unlike any other. Duncan Cameron is determined to be that man.

Laird Ewan McCabe, a widower, has spent years rebuilding his Clan after an attack that almost wiped them out. He wants nothing more than blood revenge against Duncan, the bastard who killed his father along with most of his Clan. When Ewan’s young son, Crispen, goes missing, he sends out his brothers and his warriors to find him. What they find, however, is Crispen in the care of a bruised and bloodied but feisty, strong willed woman, a woman who might just be the salvation of the Clan, and the answer to all of Ewan’s problems - if he can just open his heart and let her in.

The Audio

The narrator for this book, Kirsten Potter, has a lovely, rich, clear voice. I enjoyed her Scottish accent and the emotion and humor she gives to the characters and brings to the story. Her flow and pacing is well done and I’m very impressed with how wonderfully she gives men, women, and children, unique and distinctive voices!

The Bottom Line

While I wish there had been more Scottish brogue and period dialog used in the story, I truly enjoyed In Bed with a Highlander. Whether you read the book or listen to it, it’s fast paced, witty, sensual and poignant, and with Ms. Potter’s narration, an absolutely engaging, entertaining read! I’m looking forward to returning Highlands to spend time with those amazing McCabes!