Wild Heat (Northern Fire #1) by Lucy Monroe

Sometimes old flames are the hottest of all . . .

In the quaint little town of Cailkirn, Alaska, it's impossible to keep a secret, especially one as juicy as the unexpected return of Kitty Grant. Tack MacKinnon remembers her wild red curls and even wilder spirit-and still feels the sting from when she shattered his heart in college. But there's a pain in Kitty's gorgeous eyes that guts him to the core and Tack is determined to do whatever it takes to see the woman he still loves smile again-even if it means taking on her demons as his own.

After fleeing an abusive ex-husband, Kitty decides that the best way to heal her broken heart is to come back home. But she gets a whole new shock when she sees how undeniably sexy Tack has become. More handsome, more muscular, more charming-more everything-he's impossible to resist. Before she knows it, they're reigniting sparks that could set the whole state of Alaska on fire. Yet trust doesn't come easy to Kitty anymore, and as things heat up between her and Tack, she can't help but wonder if one of them is going to get burned . . .

Wild Heat is the first book in Lucy Monroe's very sexy Northern Fire series, set in the small Alaskan peninsula town of Cailkirn, where most of the 2,000-ish residents are Scottish, Inuit, or both.

This story has the many of the elements that often go hand in hand with friends-to-lovers and second-chance romances; misunderstandings, hurt feelings, people growing apart, the struggle to forgive...but that's just a small part of the story. The author also tackled the sensitive subject of eating disorders and did so openly, honestly, and with a level of compassion that was truly moving.

That said, (incoming minor spoilers) I struggled with the idea that Caitlin's family and friends were in a righteous dither over the way her ex manipulated her out of their lives, but then Tack turns around and uses sex to manipulate her into eating. In my opinion, his motivations were only slightly less self serving than her ex's, even if it was done for her benefit. I get it, I do. He cares for her and wants to help her get better, but addressing the underlying cause of a person's eating disorder can be difficult, and Tack's approach did nothing to endear him to me. (spoiling over)

Wild Heat starts out intriguing as, bit by bit, Caitlin Grant's and Taqukaq "Tack" MacKinnon's stories unfold. By about the half-way mark, I have to admit, it felt sluggish and I found myself skimming a bit. But then it picked back up again and left me with a smile on my face and looking forward to the next book, Hot Night, Rock Jepsom's story.  

Purchase at Amazon

Witches Be Burned (Magic & Mayhem #2) by Stacey Kennedy

Witches be Burned is the second book is Stacey Kennedy’s Magic & Mayhem series. Even though I didn’t read the first book, Werewolves Be Damned, I had no problem following the plot and was sucked in right from the start!

Blurb…

In Stacey Kennedy’s steamy paranormal romance novel, a rookie guardian sworn to combat the undead risks life and love in a world of violence, witchcraft, and seduction.

Nexi Jones has lost her family, she’s been stripped of her guardian duties, and she’s still learning the ins and outs of white magic. At least she has Kyden, the smoldering hot elite guardian who’s been there for her every step of the way. But just as Nexi completes her training, tragedy strikes the Otherworld when a fellow guardian is murdered by a group of rogue vampires. Ready or not, she and Kyden trek into the Earthworld to hunt down a killer—and Nexi alone will be put to the ultimate test.

Although Kyden knows that Nexi must fight her own battles, his guardian instincts are raging as he struggles to keep her close. The ruthlessness of these vampires is like nothing he’s ever seen. And at their helm is the Black Witch Astoria, a demon with one burning desire: to shed Nexi’s blood in the name of vengeance. What troubles Kyden even more, though, is the warlock who covets Nexi’s heart. Let the devil do his worst . . . all Kyden can do is love and protect Nexi until his last breath.

My thoughts…

Anyone who knows me knows that the Fantasy genre isn’t one of my favorites, but these books are more than just Fantasy. Yes, there’s magic. Yes, there are witches. But there are also vampires, werewolves, guardians, territories, councils… and all of these combined make this an amazing Paranormal Romance series.

Witches Be Burned picks up 4 months after Werewolves Be Damned ends, and we’re given a prologue which tells about the important things that transpired in WBD, and I'm glad for that because this is a complex world. 

With the different beings fighting for peace, there’s never a dull moment, and the ‘Good vs. Evil’ power-struggle kept me on the edge of my seat. To say the universe Ms. Kennedy has created is exciting and unique would be putting it mildly. The Magic and Mayhem world is filled with page turning intrigue. There’s also a fantastic supporting cast of characters, and a hero and heroine who are made for each other. Nexi is a strong leading lady and Kyden is an alpha male who loves her enough to let her be who she’s meant to be - though he often reminds her that he’s still the boss - and she loves him enough to let him go on believing it. And their sexual chemistry? Yeah, it burns hot and wild! See? A perfect match! 

The bottom line… 

To the point… If you’re like me and not a huge fantasy fan, you really ought to give this series a go. I’m so excited to have read this story, and am looking forward to finding out what’s to come for Nexi and Kyden! 

My thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept,  for providing me with a copy of this book. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review! 

The Unleashing (Call of Crows #1) by Shelly Laurenston

I’ll start by saying that never have I enjoyed Norse and Viking lore more than I have while reading The Unleashing. As Ms. Laurenston states in her opening letter to the readers:

"I have taken some liberties with these gods and their histories. As I did my research, I found multiple interpretations of individual gods and their backstories, so I really had no choice. I would pick the one I liked best and then put my own twist on it."

And I am sooooooo glad she did because the world she’s created is an exciting, sexy, entertaining place to be!

Blurb…

Kera Watson never expected to face death behind a Los Angeles coffee shop. Not after surviving two tours lugging an M16 around the Middle East. If it wasn’t for her hot Viking customer showing up too late to help, nobody would even see her die.

In uncountable years of service to the Allfather Odin, Ludvig “Vig” Rundstrom has never seen anyone kick ass with quite as much style as Kera. He knows one way to save her life—but she might not like it. Signing up with the Crows will get Kera a new set of battle buddies: cackling, gossiping, squabbling, party-hearty women. With wings. So not the Marines.

But Vig can’t give up on someone as special as Kera. With a storm of oh-crap magic speeding straight for L.A., survival will depend on combining their strengths: Kera’s discipline, Vig’s loyalty… and the Crows’ sheer love of battle. Boy, are they in trouble.

My thoughts...

While reading The Unleashing I was, at times, reminded of Kristen Ashley’s Rock Chicks – that crazy group of women who love and support one another despite their differences – or maybe because those differences are quirky in a ‘can’t help but love you, bless your heart’ kind of way. I was also reminded of Sandra Hill’s Vangel world, loaded with humor and sexy men and women who are more than they appear. But that said, Shelly Laurenston’s Call of Crows is like nothing I’ve ever read.

Witches and demons and gods and goddesses - and humans who want to be any or all of those things – and the grab for power that’s to be expected when you put them all together are what make up this story. But fear not! There are also beings amongst us who are in place to keep the balance and make sure no one has more of that power than they can be trusted with, and they are who made this such an entertaining story! It’s is sexy and funny and has so many twists and turns that I was constantly wondering what might happen next.

Worth mentioning…

Because there has been some misinformation floating about regarding this series, Ms. Laurenston also shared this in her note to her readers:

"Well, this is it. The first book in my new series, Call of the Crows, and right off the bat, I want you to understand this is not a rewrite of an old book nor is it a fleshing out of an old book. The Unleashing is a brand-new book and series, with brand-new characters, brand-new locale, and brand-new trouble. Although my book Hunting Season, which has been out since 2005, was the start of this idea (introducing the two main Viking Clans at the heart of this series, the Crows and the Ravens), The Unleashing is me taking the whole thing to the next level, and it’s a definite stand-alone."

The bottom line…

The Unleashing is just fun reading, no question about it. Kera and Vig are all kinds of awesome and make a perfect couple. The entire cast of characters is made up of great people who have stories of their own needing to be told, and I can’t wait to see what’s coming up next in the Call of Crows world!

An ARC was generously provided by Kensington Publishing Corp via Netgalley. To show my appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.

Catch a Falling Heiress (An American Heiress in London #3) by Laura Lee Guhrke

Catch a Falling Heiress is the 3rd book in Laura Lee Guhrke’s An American Heiress in London series. Historical Romance is probably my favorite genre, and it’s because of stories like this.

Blurb…

She's an American heiress. He's a devilish earl. When these two collide, the sparks ignite a shocking scandal in USA Today bestselling author Laura Lee Guhrke's unforgettable Victorian-era romance.

Linnet Holland wants nothing to do with fortune hunters. No, she’s determined to marry a man who loves her. But just as she’s about to accept the perfect marriage proposal from the man she wants, the rakish Earl of Featherstone interrupts and ruins everything, including her reputation, with his smoldering kiss.

Jack Featherstone knows all about Linnet’s “intended”, and he’s determined she won’t fall prey to that villain as other women have in the past. But when his attempt to save Linnet ruins her instead, he knows he has to make things right. So he sets out to win this golden beauty . . . and prove to her that being ruined by him was the best thing that could have happened to her.

My thoughts…

I’ll say this right up front, Catch a Falling Heiress is my favorite book in this series, so far. It overlaps slightly with book 2, How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days, so it’s important to read these in order because we get the details on what actually happens to Van Hausen - the vile man with no conscience, no care for anyone but himself. Details… that’s what I wanted and that’s what I got in this book!

I fell madly in love with our hero, Jack, the second son of the Earl of Featherstone. He was not loved by his father and older brother - that I can tell, anyway - and he learned early on that he’d have to make his own way in life. His early years were rough, but with determination and great friends he became an amazing man whose story needed to be told.

Linnet … such a stubborn woman, but it seems to me that’s the way the “American Heiresses” are. They’re so very different from the usual London princesses, and that’s what makes these stories shine – well, that and the amazing heroes!

It’s so much fun watching these men of the ton try to understand (and woo) these women who are nothing like the simpering little chits they’ve been exposed to, and that - along with a great storyline - is what makes Catch a Falling Heiress so entertaining.

The bottom line…

Laura Lee Guhrke’s historical romances are magic, and if you haven’t yet given her stories a read, you’re missing out! The An American Heiress in London series sits proudly on my “must read” shelf, and I can’t wait for the next installment!

An ARC of this story was provided by Avon Books. To show my appreciation I'm giving them an honest review.

Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley (Valentine Valley #5) by Emma Cane

Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley is the 5th book in Emma Cane's Valentine Valley series. These are small town, contemporary romance stories with lots of heart and plenty of steam. This time it's Tony and Kate's turn to shine, and to get a second shot at love.

Blurb...

When Tony De Luca's ex, Kate Fenelli, waltzes through the door of his tavern and pulls up a bar stool, she turns his balanced world on end. Once they'd been each other's first love, first everything. But then life happened, and they walked away with broken hearts. Now Kate is back in Valentine, and they can't seem to stay out of each other's way. When Tony begins wondering what would happen if they rekindled the sparks, he knows he's in big trouble.

Kate can't believe she's sitting at Tony's bar spilling her life-changing problems to him. He's as gorgeous as ever, and she can't seem to forget how incredible he always made her feel. Still, the door on that chapter of their lives closed long ago. Yet with Christmas buzzing in the air, Kate can't help wondering if anything is possible—even a second chance with the only man she's ever loved.

My thoughts...

Sleigh Bells in Valentine Valley is my first taste of Emma Cane's writing, and I truly enjoy the way she tells a story. The situation Tony and Kate find themselves in is completely unexpected, with their feelings for one another returning in a big way, and that makes for a poignant, romantic, sexy read! And while their happily ever after is a long time in coming and doesn't come easy,  it's definitely wonderful!!!

An ARC was provided by Avon Books via Edelweiss.   

Summer of the Eagle by Susan Edwards

(Click here to purchase from Amazon)

Description...

Blaze was an outcast among her people and the most powerful healer in her tribe. Though she used her impossible abilities only for good, her people were afraid of her. Even her father, who was her tribe's medicine man, feared her. She herself feared some of the things she could do. And her dreams -- those dreams of a young child and the two slaughtered birds -- were more terrifying than anything.

But it was a season of change. Blaze saw answers on the horizon, keys to the secrets she needed to unravel. The winds of destiny were rising, sweeping her toward freedom and others of her kind. There was darkness in her visions but also a man: a tall, buckskin-clad stranger with golden-brown hair and eyes as green as the leaves on the trees. And though he was nothing like her, was a French trapper, his eyes promised understanding, kindness and most important, a love that would be hers and hers alone. Yes, the winds of fate were rising, and they promised a long, hot Summer of the Eagle.

It is not for us to want but to accept and follow our paths. 

Learn to live with who you are and you will master your future.

Summer of the Eagle is the first book in the Seasons of Love series, and I really enjoyed this story, though it wasn't quite what I had expected. I'd assumed this would be another of Susan Edwards' beautiful Native American Historical Romances - and it was definitely that, and more.


My review...

What makes this story so special, in my mind, is the way Ms. Edwards used NA folklore to weave an exciting fantasy tale featuring shifters, healers, and amazing characters who I couldn't help but love. Often when reading NA stories we hear of these otherworldly beings, spoken of as legends, by tribespeople sitting around campfires, but in Summer of the Eagle we get to witness them as they are brought to life, and I loved that!

This story is romantic and steamy and encompasses many things but most importantly, I believe, is that it's about opening yourself up to any and all possibilities and learning to accept who you are, who you can be, and loving yourself for both. For in doing so your life will be filled with unimaginable joy and a happily ever after you only dreamed of.

The bottom line...

Though not without some minor flaws and moments it seemed that the story dragged - or maybe it was just the tranquil flow of some scenes - I was completely captivated by the world, the culture, and the people Ms. Edwards has created, and I look forward to more of the Seasons of Love series!

An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure!

Note: The copy I read from is an ARC and there were quite a few misplaced quotation marks which I think were probably caused during the formatting process.  

Almost Perfect by Julie Ortolon - Includes Audio Book Review

Kindle freebie at the time of posting - Click here to purchase

Description...

Maddy, Christine, and Amy find that an old college roommate has written about them in her new self-help book-and they're furious that she's used them as examples of how women screw up their lives. And the worst part is, it's sort of true. Together they make a pact: they'll face down their fears-and maybe show Miss Perfect a thing or two!

Maddy rejected her high school sweetheart's marriage proposal for art school years ago. Now her friends challenge her to rediscover her lost passion for arts. In doing so, she crosses paths with her old flame, Joe, at an art camp. Perhaps it's about time that Maddy reignites another old passion.

***** 

This is a review of both the Audible and the Kindle versions.

I haven't enjoyed a new-to-me author this much in a long time and it just goes to prove the old adage about never judging a book by its cover - but in this case, its 'never judge a book by its price.' See, I've had Almost Perfect sitting on my Kindle forever! Seriously, at least couple years, I'm sure. But I had this idea that because it had been free, it probably wasn't all that good, so I was in no hurry to get to it. Yeeaaah, no! I was totally wrong about that and I'm kicking myself for having waited so long to read this story!

My review...

There are a few things that stand out in my mind as to what makes this such an entertaining story. Most definitely Christine and Amy and their friendship with Maddy - true friends who tell you what you need to hear, even when it's not what you want to hear. Their relationship added a bit of a chick-lit feel, but not too much. This truly is a romance driven novel. And a steamy one, at that!

Another thing I loved is the theme of never giving up on your dreams. In fact, that's the jumping off point and the foundation of the story. And while the friendship is the catalyst for Maddie reaching for her dreams, Joe is also there, cheering her on.

But for me, best of all, I loved this second chance romance that, against almost impossible odds, was truly wonderful. No hurried forgiveness, no lame excuses that are acceptable just to move things along...the whole story, start to finish, drew me in and kept me totally invested in these very real, totally normal, compelling flawed people. (And an FYI to those I know will be wondering - there was no cheating involved when the relationship ended the first time.)

The audio...

Jane Cramer did a great job of giving each character a distinctive voice and personality. Her own voice is smooth, pleasant, and so, so easy to listen to!

I'm excited to read more by this talented author/narrator team!

My thanks to the Ortolons for providing me with a copy of this audio book in exchange for an honest review. It was such a pleasure!

At the time of this posting, book 1, Almost Perfect, is a Kindle Freebie. Use the link below to order:

Tasty Virtual Book Tour - The Sum of All Kisses by Julia Quinn

The Sum of All Kisses

By: Julia Quinn

Blurb

Hugh Prentice has never liked Lady Sarah Pleinsworth, and his opinion is confirmed when he overhears her yammering on about how she must get married this season or she will simply die. He’s never had patience for dramatic females, and the words shy and retiring have never been in Sarah’s vocabulary. Besides, even if he did grow to enjoy her company, it wouldn’t matter. A reckless duel has left this brilliant mathematician with a ruined leg, and now, unable to run, ride, or even waltz, he could never court a woman like Sarah, much less dream of marrying her.

Sarah has never forgiven Hugh for the duel he fought three years earlier, the one that forced her cousin into exile, nearly destroying her family. But even if she could find a way to forgive him, it wouldn’t matter. She doesn’t care that his leg is less than perfect, it’s his personality she can’t stand.

But when the pair is forced to spend a week in close company they discover that opinions--even those firmest held--can, in fact, be altered. And when a kiss leads to two, three and four the mathematician may lose count and the miss may, for the first time, find herself speechless. 

 Rafflecopter Giveaway (Paperback Copy of A NIGHT LIKE THIS by Julia Quinn) a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author Info

#1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn loves to dispel the myth that smart women don't read (or write) romance, and in 2001 she did so in grand fashion, appearing on the game show The Weakest Link and walking away with the $79,000 jackpot. She displayed a decided lack of knowledge about baseball, country music, and plush toys, but she is proud to say that she aced all things British and literary, answered all of her history and geography questions correctly, and knew that there was a Da Vinci long before there was a code. Ms. Quinn is one of only fifteen members of Romance Writers of America's Hall of Fame, her books have been translated into 26 languages, and she currently lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest.

Author Links

Visit Julia Quinn's Website

Visit Julia Quinn's Facebook Page

Visit Julia Quinn at Avon Romance

Buy Links:

Amazon: The Sum of All Kisses 

B&N: The Sum of All Kisses 

BAM: The Sum of All Kisses

Excerpt:

“Wasn’t that nice of Daniel to put you in the coach with us?” Frances said, as soon as Hugh had settled into his seat next to her. Or rather, it was a bit before he was settled; he was coming to realize that she was not a particularly patient child.

                “Indeed,” Hugh murmured. He supposed he was thankful, actually. Better Lady Frances than some stuffy old lady or a gentleman with a cheroot. And surely her sisters would be tolerable.

                “I asked him specially,” Frances continued. “I had such a nice time at the wedding yesterday.” She turned to her sisters. “We ate cake together.”

                “I saw,” Elizabeth said.

                “Do you mind riding backwards?” Frances asked. “Harriet and Elizabeth both get sick if they do.”

                “Frances!” Elizabeth protested.

                “It’s true. What would be more embarrassing, my telling Lord Hugh that you get sick from riding backwards, or actually getting sick from riding backwards?”

                “I would prefer the former myself,” Hugh said.

                “Are you going to chatter the whole way?” Harriet asked. Of the three, she looked the most like Sarah. Her hair was a few shades lighter, but the shape of her face was the same, and so was her smile. She looked at Hugh with a hint of embarrassment. “I beg your pardon. I was addressing my sisters, of course. Not you.”

                “Think nothing of it,” he said with a light smile. “But as it happens, I don’t intend to chatter the whole way.”

                “I was planning to write,” Harriet continued, moving a small sheaf of papers onto her lap desk.

                “You can’t do that,” Elizabeth said. “You’ll get ink everywhere.”

                “No I won’t. I’m developing a new technique.”

                “For writing in the carriage?”

                “It involves less ink. I promise. And did anyone remember to pack biscuits? I always get hungry before we stop for lunch.”

                “Frances brought some. And you know Mother will have a fit if you get ink on—”

                “Watch your elbows, Frances.”

                “So sorry, Lord Hugh. I hope that didn’t hurt. And I didn’t bring any biscuits. I thought Elizabeth was going to do so.”

                “Did you sit on my doll?”

                “Oh, bother. I knew I should have eaten a bigger breakfast. Stop looking at me like that. I’m not going to get ink on the cush—”

                “Your doll is right here. How does one use less ink?”

                Hugh could only stare. There appeared to be sixteen different conversations going on at once. With only three participants.

                “Well, I just jot down the main ideas—”

                “Do the main ideas have unicorns?”

                Hugh had been completely unable to track who was saying what until that.

                “Not the unicorns again,” Elizabeth groaned. She looked over at Hugh, and said, “Please forgive my sister. She is obsessed with unicorns.”

                Hugh glanced down at Frances. She’d gone rigid with anger and was glaring at her sister. He didn’t really blame her; Elizabeth’s tone had been as older-sibling as it got, two parts condescension and one part derision. And while he didn’t really hold that against her —he would have been the same at her age, he was sure— he was seized by a sudden urge to be a little girl’s hero.

                He couldn’t remember the last time he’d been anyone’s hero.

                “I rather like unicorns,” he said.

                Elizabeth looked stunned. “You do?”

                He shrugged. “Doesn’t everyone?”

                “Yes, but you don’t believe in them,” Elizabeth said. “Frances thinks they are real.”

                Out of the corner of his eye he saw Frances, eyeing him nervously.

                “I certainly cannot prove that they don’t exist,” he said.

                Frances let out a squeak.

                Elizabeth looked as if she’d been staring into the sun too long.

                “Lord Hugh,” Frances said, “I—”

                “Mama!”

                Frances stopped midsentence and they all looked toward the carriage door. It was Sarah’s voice, just outside the carriage, and she did not sound happy.

                “Do you think she’s going to ride with us?” Elizabeth whispered.

                “Well, she did on the way here,” Harriet replied.

                Lady Sarah. In the carriage. Hugh was not sure he could imagine a more diabolical torture.

                “It’s here with your sisters or with Arthur and Rupert,” came the voice of Lady Pleinsworth. “I’m sorry but we just don’t have room in...”

                “I won’t get to sit with you,” Frances told Hugh apologetically. “They won’t all three fit on the other side.”

                Lady Sarah would be sitting next to him. Apparently there was a more diabolical torture.

The Prince of Midnight by Laura Kinsale

"Don't let that happen to me." Her words shook. "Don't leave me to be what I'll become without you."

This is a review of the audio book as well as the story itself.

Once again Laura Kinsale has written an amazing novel, and Nicholas Boulton has made it real. I can’t even explain what he brings to the stories he narrates. How he makes the hero and heroine so much more than just characters in a book. He doesn’t merely read their lines, he exists in them. The people, their lives, their passions and trials and triumphs… he becomes them! He makes them living, feeling human beings – flawed, tormented, irredeemable people who I can’t help but fall in love with.

The Story

Leigh’s need for revenge drives her far from home to La Paire, in the foothills of the French Alps, seeking the help of the legendary highwayman known as le Seigneur du Minuit – The Prince of Midnight. She needs someone with his strength, his cunning, and his skills at swordplay if she has any hope of destroying the man that destroyed her family. But convincing le Seigneur to help is harder than Leigh anticipated, and so begins a battle of wits and wills.

S.T. Maitland isn’t the man he once was – not physically or emotionally. As Leigh’s masquerade unravels and her story comes out, bit by bit, S.T. knows that her’s is a cause le Seigneur du Minuit would have championed. But now, barely able to stand up without falling over, hope he once had of healing, any high esteem he’d once regarded of himself is gone, and S.T. doesn’t imagine to be any use to anyone.

My Thoughts

Oh, what an emotional roller-coaster ride this is! At times I loathed Leigh, at times I loved her. At times I hated S.T., at times I worshipped him! From one scene to the next I didn’t know what to expect from these two equally tortured souls! It’s a heartbreaking, uplifting, romantic, painfully brilliant story, and that, lovely readers, is why I was up until the wee hours, listening, unable to close my eyes until the end.

I’m not usually a fan of high-angst stories, but this one sucked me in, chewed me up and spit me out - and I loved every minute of it! I wanted to kill Leigh and S.T. at the same time I couldn’t help but love them both. I desperately needed them to get their happily ever after just as desperately as I wanted them to give up on each other and walk away. But these words made it all come together for me, made it all okay...

He tried to pull away, and then suddenly his grip tightened on her hands. He lifted them to his mouth. "Ah God, you are. . . you are. . . and what can I give you in return?"

"Give me your joy, Seigneur." She pressed her forehead against their clasped hands. "Oh, give me your joy. I can go on alone if I must. I'll endure, oh yes—I'm too strong to break. And I'll grow old and turn into stone if you leave me. I'll never look up and see you play with the wolf; I'll never hear you call me sweet names in French; I'll never learn to beat you at chess." She shook her head violently. "Please. . . dance with me. Take me to Italy. Paint me in the ruins at midnight. Give me all your mad notions and your crazy heroics and your impossible romantical follies. And I'll be your anchor. I'll be your balance. I'll be your family. I won't let you fall."

His hands opened. He slipped his fingers over her cheeks, cupping her face between his palms.

She felt hot tears fill her eyes. "I'm so weary of grief and hate." She bent her head and stepped away, looking up into his face. "I want a chance to give you the best of myself, too."

Far off beyond the lake, a crane made its warbling whoop, exotic and startling against the background of the harpsichord. He lifted his hand, touched her cheek, caught the single tear that tumbled down it.

She bit her lip. The tears came, impossible to stop. "I love you," she said in a cracked voice. "The truth is, Monseigneur. . . I need you more than you need me."

He was silent, his hand against her skin, warm against the night air.

"Don't let that happen to me." Her words shook. "Don't leave me to be what I'll become without you."

And so, in the end, when it was all said and done and I was listening to those final words of the story, I knew it was right. I knew that even though their happily ever after was hard fought, it was so, so well deserved, and that made it right.

Perfect.

Brilliant!

Ride with Me by Ruthie Knox

When Lexie Marshall places an ad for a cycling companion, she hopes to find someone friendly and fun to cross the TransAmerica Trail with. Instead, she gets Tom Geiger—a lean, sexy loner whose bad attitude threatens to spoil the adventure she’s spent years planning.

Roped into the cycling equivalent of a blind date by his sister, Tom doesn’t want to ride with a chatty, go-by-the-map kind of woman, and he certainly doesn’t want to want her. Too bad the sight of Lexie with a bike between her thighs really turns his crank.

Even Tom’s stubborn determination to keep Lexie at a distance can’t stop a kiss from leading to endless nights of hotter-than-hot sex. But when the wild ride ends, where will they go next?

******

Sometimes I'll read a new-to-me author and wonder what the heck is wrong with me? Why did I wait sooooo long, when I've seen nothing but raves about their writing? Well, I'm doing that now - questioning and kicking myself - and this time the author is Ruthie Knox.

Start to finish, this is a great story. A bike ride across the United States? How fun is that! I love that Ms. Knox made me feel like I was included in the adventure, taking me places and showing me things I'll never have the chance to see. From the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic, and everything in between - mountains, deserts, plains, clear skies or torrential rains...instead of just reading words on a page, I wast there, riding right alongside Tom and Lexie. And. Loving. Every. Minute!

And speaking of Tom and Lexie...

Tom and Lexie are so awesome! Total opposites, but this is one of those cases where opposites not only attract, they're helplessly drawn together. I say helpless because even when they didn't want to give into their attraction, they couldn't help it. It was out of their control, almost as if destiny demanded it. I enjoyed their push and pull, their struggle to deny the obvious, because when they finally give in, they did so with a vengeance!

It was also fun to spend time with the people they met along the way. Such interesting, quirky people!

The Bottom Line - I've seen review after review praising Ms. Knox's storytelling, and now I understand why. Ride with Me is one of those stories that, start to finish, grabs hold and doesn't let go. It's fun, sexy, romantic, poignant... the perfect feel-good read.

This spot is normally reserved for thanking authors or publishers for providing me with a copy of their book in exchange for an honest review, but since I bought this one for pleasure, I'll thank all the wonderful people on Goodreads whose reviews tempted me beyond reason, until I could no longer control myself and just had to buy this book! Loved it! Thank you!

Sweet Revenge by Zoë Archer

 

When Jack Dalton escapes from Dunmoor Prison, he has only one thing in mind—finding the nobleman who murdered his sister and making him pay. But when he reaches the inn where the Lord Rockley is rumored to be staying, three well-dressed strangers are there to meet him instead. And the pretty blonde is aiming a pistol right at his head …

Joining Nemesis, Unlimited has made Eva Warrick much more than the well-mannered lady she appears to be—one who can shoot, fight, and outsmart any man in the quest to right the injustices so often suffered by the innocent. She’s not afraid of the burly escaped convict, but she is startled by their shared attraction. She and her partners need Jack’s help to get to Rockley, but Eva finds she wants Jack for scandalous reasons all her own…

*****

Sweet Revenge is the first book in Zoë Archer’s Nemesis, Unlimited series. It’s a Victorian romance, but unlike any Victorian romance I’ve read before and, first page to the last, I loved it!

This is one of those rare “first in a series” books that doesn’t feel like a first. The world is interesting, exciting, and complex, but not so complex that you need a glossary of terms or pedigree chart at the end to understand what’s happening. Instead of seasons, balls, the ton, peerage and all the other mundane happenings associated with the men and women of the era, this is a gritty world where murder, rape, and thievery go unpunished if you have the right title. And, should you attempt to rectify the wrongs against the innocents, you’re likely to become a target yourself.

Enter Nemesis, Unlimited! I love these Robin Hoods of Justice! Their ideals and their dedication to each other and to making the world a better, safer place for everyone, make them men and women to not only respect and admire, but to fear.

I absolutely adore Jack Dalton! From the very first page he commands attention, not just due to his size and brutish strength, but in his determination to right the wrong against his sister. He makes no excuses for her part in what happened, but will stop at nothing to see her killer brought to justice, as quickly, painfully and permanently - in other words, dead - as possible. As we learn more about Jack and his past, my heart ached for him. I wanted nothing more than to see him get the vengeance he so desperately needed in order to move on with his life.

Eva Warrick is a great heroine, and I was quickly on her side, cheering her on as she stopped at nothing to get Jack to join them. They too sought out Lord Rockley for yet another of his wrongs against women, and knew that Jack was their secret weapon in bringing him down. She’s a no nonsense kind of woman who has dedicated her life to her work with Nemesis, Unlimited. Jack wasn’t easily convinced to join them, but Eva’s refusal to take no for an answer, and Jack’s growing attraction and admiration for her, make it hard for him to walk away. Apart, Jack and Eva are great people, but together they are amazing. They're both aware of their sexuality chemistry - it's undeniable, after all - but it’s a slow burn that they take their time acting on, and that just makes the wait that much more seductive.

The bottom line: Zoë Archer is a talented author with a gift for getting right to the heart of her characters, making their stories compelling and their happily ever afters well deserved. Sweet Revenge is a great start to this series, and I’m so looking forward to reading Dangerous Seduction, Simon Addison-Shawe and Alyce Carr’s story.

My thanks to Zoë Archer and St. Martin’s Paperbacks for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.

Lucky Like Us by Jennifer Ryan

 

On the Cover:

The Hunted series continues as Special Agent Sam Turner discovers that protecting the FBI's star witness is more difficult than he thought!

Bakery owner Elizabeth Hamilton's quiet life is filled with sweet treats, good friends, and a loving family. But all of that is about to turn sour when an odd sound draws her outside. There's a man lying unconscious in the street, a car speeding toward him. Without hesitation, she gets the man out of harm's way before they're run down.

Unwittingly, Elizabeth has put herself in the path of a serial murderer, and as the only one who can identify the FBI's Silver Fox Killer, she's ended up in the hospital with a target on her back.

All that stands between her and death is Special Agent Sam Turner. Against his better judgment, Sam gets emotionally involved, determined to take down the double threat against Elizabeth—an ex desperate to get her back, despite a restraining order, and a psychopath bent on silencing her before she can identify him.

They set a trap to catch the killer—putting Elizabeth in his hands, with Sam desperate to save her. If he's lucky, he'll get his man … and the girl.

*****

Lucky Like Us is the second book in Jennifer Ryan’s The Hunted series. It’s fast paced, intriguing, sexy… a thoroughly engaging story.

I'm just going to get this out of the way, right up front: I wasn’t all that impressed with the first book in the series, so I hadn't planned on reading this one. It's not that it was awful, but it didn't WOW me enough to want to continue, but boy-oh-boy, am I glad I did! The writing is very good, the story and the relationship development flow at a believable pace and once I started reading, I didn’t want to put it down.

I loved Sam and Elizabeth, both apart and as a couple. They’re compassionate, devoted to their friends and family, honorable to a fault, and compelling people with interesting lives who ‘fit’ together perfectly. It was great to revisit Jack and Jenna, and Caleb and Summer, as well as meeting new characters whose stories need to be told.

The bottom line: Ms. Ryan has really found her storytelling mojo with this installment of The Hunted series and I’m excitedly looking forward to reading the next book in the series, The Right Bride.

My thanks to Avon Book and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Books in the series:

Accidentally in Love with A God? by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

 

Twenty-two-year-old Emma Keane has a secret friend. He’s powerful, mysterious, and devastatingly handsome. In her dreams, anyway.

In real life, he’s an enigma. Maybe just a teensie jealous. Definitely overbearing. He’s also a voice only she can hear.

So who or what is he? He won’t say. But if she wants to be free, to be normal, Emma will have to trek to the jungles once ruled by the Mayans and find the forgotten ruin holding the answers.

However, the ruthless deity she’s about to unknowingly unleash on the modern world might not be so easily extracted from her life. Bottom line, he’s got enemies, and now, so does she.

***** 

 
Accidentally in Love with…A God? is the first book in Mimi Jean Pamfiloff’s Accidentally Yours series. It’s a light read with a fun mix of fantasy and paranormal romance, infused with gods, goddesses, curses, plans for world domination and, most importantly, hot, sexy men! 

This is such an entertaining story! It’s got a great plot, a hot, hunky hero, a sassy heroine, lots of humor and some steam, and there’s a great supporting cast. All those things are a must for me to enjoy a story, but most importantly - and especially so with a series introduction - is that the story easy to follow! That might not be a big deal to everyone, but given the complexity of the world Ms. Pamfiloff has created, it could have been disastrous, but she pulled it off with flying colors.

I did have a problem with the H/h pairing. As I said, they’re great, but only as long as they’re apart. When together? They were constantly at odds. Arguing, bickering, snarking at one another, and that took away from the good-times.

The bottom line: Accidentally in Love with…A God? is a fun, fast paced story, perfect for a day at the beach or anytime you want something easy to read!

3.5 stars

My thanks to Grand Central Publishing and Netgally for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Saved by the Rancher by Jennifer Ryan

 

THE AVON AFFAIR IS A 14-DAY AVON BOOKS REVIEW EVENT
ORGANIZED AND HOSTED BY CURRENT AND ALUMNI MEMBERS OF
THE AVON ADDICTS.

Today I'm reviewing: 

Saved by the Rancher by Jennifer Ryan

Saved by the Rancher is the first book in Jennifer Ryan’s The Hunted series, and my first read of this author. The story starts out with a horrific scene of physical abuse, and Jenna Caldwell Merrick running for her life. This scene is definitely not pretty to read due to the viciousness of the attack, but this is Jenna's life and it's on the line.

The story:

David Merrick is one of the wealthiest men alive and is used to getting what he wants, so when Jenna gets tired of the abuse and leaves him, he takes great pleasure in hunting her, and doing whatever he has to do to get her back. Intimidation, fear, abuse... he'll stop at nothing, but when those things don’t work, he’s more than willing to kill her. David is a sick SOB and loves seeing Jenna's fear, knowing he has the physical strength and the money to make her suffer.

We’re introduced to Jenna at the lowest point in her life. She’s come close to death too many times at David’s hands, but she won’t let him scare her into going back. She’ll run until she’s free or dead, but she won’t give up. Jenna has several safety nets in place to help her avoid being found, but time after time, he somehow tracks her down. With the help of her attorney, Jenna finally finds a place to hide, a place to rest, with people who are willing to protect her.

Jack Turner gets a call from an old college friend, as it turns out, to help hide a client. Jack doesn’t know this upfront, but it quickly becomes clear that this pretty lady who’s obviously been abused needs his help. Jack hasn’t been interested in a relationship in years because the women he's dated are always more into his wallet than they are into him. But there’s something about Jenna that draws him to her, and he can’t fight the attraction, and neither can she. But can Jack really keep Jenna safe and convince her to settle down with him when all she wants to do is run? He’s not sure of the answer to that, but he’s not willing to give up without a fight.

My thoughts:

Saved by the Rancher is an entertaining story and, with a little more attention to editing, flow and pacing, could have been a 4 or 5 star read. What really kept the story from reaching that level is, considering all the abuse Jenna has endured, how long she’s run, how often she’s nearly died, I felt that her relationship development with Jack was rushed. We were told how afraid she was, how untrusting of men and not willing to settle down, and yet, we didn't see that in the story because it was no time at all before she was having sexual feelings for Jack. It’s a full length novel so there was plenty of time to flesh it out, to allow that attraction to grow, and that would have made the story and the romance much more enjoyable.

I would probably label this a romantic suspense/thriller, given the brutality and abuse Jenna suffers at David’s hands, as well as the psychological game of cat and mouse he enjoys playing. This is an intense read, nothing light and fluffy about it because of that constant fear of Jenna being discovered in the back of your mind. The plot is exciting, fast paced, and steamy, and there times I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to find out what might happen next.

The Hunted series has the potential to be amazing, and I’m looking forward to reading more by Ms. Ryan.

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

Books in the series so far:

The Earl in My Bed by Sophie Jordan

The Earl in My Bed is a sweet and passionate short story, just in time for Valentine’s Day. It’s part of the Forgotten Princesses series and takes place between books two and three, though I can honestly say, it works as a standalone.

It was unspoken, but well understood, that Paget and her childhood friend, Owen, would one day marry, but with Owen off fighting a war a world away, and his older brother Jamie, the new Earl of Willingham close by, Paget starts wondering why Jamie can evoke such strong feelings in her heart, and her body, feelings she never had for Owen. After all, growing up, Jamie made it clear that she, a mere vicar's daughter, had no business associating with he and his brothers, so what is it about him, now... why is he tempting her with things she shouldn't want, things that have her questioning which brother she truly loves?

Poignant stories can be difficult to tell in novellas, but Ms. Jordan did a fine job here. Jamie and Paget are well matched, and their story is tender and heartwarming. There were times I laughed, times I sighed, times I fanned myself, and even times my heart broke for the child that Jamie was never able to be. I adored Paget for her insight and compassion, and for recognizing what made Jamie the boy he had been, the man he became, and for loving them both.

I hope to read more of this series, very soon, most especially Owen's story, which promises to be an emotional journey.

3.5/5 stars

My thanks to Avon Books for giving me the opportunity to read this sweet story, in return for an honest review.

The Secret Life of Lady Lucinda by Sophie Barnes

Lucy Blackwell is desperate, reckless, and maybe a little bit crazy. That's the only possible explanation for tricking a man she doesn't know into a dance, a kiss, and an engagement - all in the middle of the biggest ball of the year! But Lord William Summersby is the final piece of her grand plan, and she'll do what it takes to make this marriage of convenience work - as long as it's convenient for her. She just never counted on falling in love...

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

The Secret Life of Lady Lucinda is the third book in Sophie Barnes' Summersby series. It's a charming, romantic, sexy story full of mystery, adventure, humor, and some burn up the sheets lovin'.

Lady Lucinda Blackwell has a secret - and a mission - and she'll do whatever it takes to see it through, even if it means tricking the only man who can help her into marriage - which she does! Afterall, as Lucy surmises, it's not like they'll have to stay married for long, because if they just refrain from consummation, their marriage can be annulled. Simple as that, that!

Lord William Summersby has decided it's time to take a bride and the woman he's chosen will make him the perfect wife. Lady Annabelle Forthright is proper, intelligent but unassuming, pretty, healthy...  surely she'll provide him with plenty of good looking heirs. His life will be as it should be - quiet and uncomplicated. But when William finds that he has compromised a woman he's never laid eyes on before, he does what he and his family believe is the right thing to do - he marries her instead, turning his well ordered life into one of chaos and intrigue.  As the days pass and he gets to know his new wife better, William starts to think that maybe Lucy really is the best match for him - and she thinks to avoid the marriage bed? Not likely!

From the very first page when it grabbed hold and broke my heart, to the very last when I was left smiling from ear to ear, I absolutely enjoyed this story. The close knit - albeit unorthodox - Summersby family made for some great times with their teasing banter and obvious love for one another. While Lucy's plan to ensnare William was rather silly, given the time period it was also ingenious, and had me giggling from the irony of it all.

The bottom line: Sophie Barnes writes witty, romantic and sexy tales that are sure you leave you with a smile on your face, too. If you like your historical romance to be on the lighter side, but with an interesting plot and  loaded with passion, then you simply must read Ms. Barnes' stories, and the Summersby series is a great place to start!

My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story for review. It was such a pleasure!