C2’s review of Lothaire (Immortals After Dark, Book 10) by Kresley Cole
Paranormal Romance published by Gallery Books 10 Jan 12

In a long-running series, there are always a couple of characters whose books are especially anticipated. However, when said book actually arrives, it’s a chancy thing…will it live up to expectations? What if it goes completely in the wrong (from the reader’s viewpoint) direction? Kresley Cole’s latest release in her Immortals After Dark series finally gives readers Lothaire’s story. You’re curious now, aren’t you, faithful reader? Oh, there might be spoilers here, yo?

Lothaire, the Enemy of Old, has been a force throughout the IAD series. Sometimes he helps, sometimes he hinders…whatever suits his mysterious (until now) ultimate goal. Finally, Lothaire is ready to claim a key piece needed to attain his goal – his Bride. Like all vampires, Lothaire searched for ages to find his Bride – the one woman that allows him to once again walk among the living. A vampire’s Bride makes his heart start beating (literally). Lothaire is an ancient being and is steps from madness…his hold on reality is getting slippery, but time with his Bride can soothe him.

Lothaire’s Bride is unique, of course. At first he thought she was plain Elizabeth (Ellie Ann) Peirce, native of West Virginia – a human, of all things! Lothaire knew fate would never be so cruel as to pair him with such a lowly creature (Lothaire’s ego is…healthy). Then he discovered that Elizabeth had been inhabited by Saroya the Soul Reaper, goddess of death and blood (and the Vampire Horde’s ancient diety – suddenly all things became clear.) With Saroya by his side, he will be able to claim the Horde (vampires who drink blood straight from the source) throne and the throne of his mother’s people, the Dacians. First, though, he must find a way to get rid of Elizabeth’s spirit so Saroya can keep the body.

Until Saroya has full control of Elizabeth’s body, she will not consummate any sort of relationship with Lothaire – and won’t even stay present (she fades into a sleep-like state). So, as you might imagine, Lothaire is inspired to find a way to get rid of Elizabeth quickly. However, these things take time and he is forced to spend some of that time with Elizabeth. As he gets to know her, he begins to wonder if it might be that Saroya isn’t his Bride…what if he is really meant to be with Elizabeth?

Elizabeth, in the meantime, has suffered all sorts of horrors due to Saroya’s possession – she’s the Soul Reaper, remember. And she really, really enjoys reaping. Thanks to Saroya’s escapes, Elizabeth ends up convicted of multiple murders and is on death row, seconds from death, when Lothaire breaks her out. Elizabeth doesn’t want to be free, though. She knows if she is free, Saroya is too and if Saroya is free, more people will die. The only alternative Elizabeth sees is her own death. When Lothaire spirits her away, he explains why he will not allow Elizabeth to die – until he is ready to extinguish her spirit so he and Saroya can rule.

Elizabeth is not on board with the plan. She decides to try whatever she can to drive a wedge between Lothaire and Saroya – including seduction. Lothaire, however, views humans as animals, so she has her work cut out for her. Somewhere along the way, though, Lothaire begins to see Elizabeth as more than a vessel for Saroya. But unbreakable vows have been made and there are more players on the field than anyone realizes.

Oh, faithful reader, as you might imagine, there is much more to this book than my summary. So much happening! So many plot threads weaving along! This is barely an overview. This book, mostly, picks up right after Dreams of a Dark Warrior leaves off (there are some prologue bits to establish things too). However, is it absolutely necessary to read DoaDW before reading this one? I say no…not if you’re pretty familiar with the series. If you’ve never read the series, this is not the place to start.

Elizabeth is an excellent heroine, says me. Smart, quick, funny – she never stops trying to find a way out of her situation and does all she can to protect her family. Lothaire ends up being a better hero than I would have ever thought. HOT! NAUGHTY! *ahem* Moving along…the supporting cast is fun, too. Some new and interesting characters (yay, spin-off series) and some characters we already know. Also, let me report that we get more information about Nix – no, not who her hero might be or anything like that…just some stuff about her background and stuff. Still…yay!

Wow, that Saroya is a piece of work. Talk about icky villains! No remorse, nothing redeeming anywhere in her character. Bleh. Not that she’s one-dimensional…just evil. Also, I think Lothaire is blind to the reality of who his bride actually is for too long. And having Elizabeth sometimes speak in a mountain dialect is unnecessary – but I find that sort of thing annoying, generally, so take that for what it’s worth.

I enjoyed the book! It’s much better (and much less bloody) than DoaDW. If you are a fan of the IAD series, you will not be disappointed. And you will definitely be intrigued by the new characters introduced. Is it worth buying in hardcover? If you are a serious fan, sure. I don’t think the payoff is as big in this book as it is in Nalini Singh’s Kiss of Snow, for example. Has Lothaire’s story been very, very anticipated? Maybe it has, but I don’t think so. So, if you are behind in the series or just curious about it (and it is an excellent series), start at the beginning…by the time you’re ready for this one, it will be out in paperback.

Grade: B+

Summary:

ALL FEAR THE ENEMY OF OLD

Driven by his insatiable need for revenge, Lothaire, the Lore’s most ruthless vampire, plots to seize the Horde’s crown. But bloodlust and torture have left him on the brink of madness— until he finds Elizabeth Peirce, the key to his victory. He captures the unique young mortal, intending to offer up her very soul in exchange for power, yet Elizabeth soothes his tormented mind and awakens within him emotions Lothaire believed he could no longer experience.

A DEADLY FORCE DWELLS WITHIN HER

Growing up in desperate poverty, Ellie Peirce yearned for a better life, never imagining she’d be convicted of murder—or that an evil immortal would abduct her from death row. But Lothaire is no savior, as he himself plans to sacrifice Ellie in one month’s time. And yet the vampire seems to ache for her touch, showering her with wealth and sexual pleasure. In a bid to save her soul, Ellie surrenders her body to the wicked vampire, while vowing to protect her heart.

CENTURIES OF COLD INDIFFERENCE SHATTERED

Elizabeth tempts Lothaire beyond reason, as only his fated mate could. As the month draws to a close, he must choose between a millenniaold blood vendetta and his irresistible prisoner. Will Lothaire succumb to the miseries of his past . . . or risk everything for a future with her?

Read an excerpt (opens a PDF, FYI).

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of She Tempts the Duke (Lost Lords of Pembrook, Book 1) by Lorraine Heath
Historical Romance published by Avon 31 Jan 12

In her new series, Lorraine Heath tell the stories of the Lost Lords of Pembrook – three boys who ran away from their scheming uncle.  They escaped a locked tower (with some help from a friend) and fled into the night, promising to return for retribution when they were adults.  One went to the army, one went to sea, and one was left in a workhouse.  The boys decided it would be best for them to run away until they were older and better able to fight their uncle.  They made plans to reunite in ten years but they didn’t manage.  Now they have returned…

Sebastian, the oldest (and new Duke of Keswick), and his twin brother, Tristan, were fourteen and their younger brother, Rafe, was ten when their father (a skilled horseman) was killed in a riding accident.  Their father’s brother locked then in a tower on the family estate, but after Mary (also fourteen and from the neighboring estate) overheard him give orders to kill the boys, she went looking for them and managed to break them out of the tower. While the boys were fleeing, Mary told her (remarkably ineffectual) father what she heard – even though Sebastian said not to tell anyone – and was sent to a nunnery for her trouble.

Fast forward a dozen years – Mary is finally having a Season, thanks to her aunt rescuing her from the nunnery.  She has recently been betrothed, even.  Imagine her surprise when, after years of hearing nothing from them, the lost lords of Pembrook arrive at a ball given by their uncle.  The brothers have come to reclaim their inheritance and assume their rightful places in society.  Society, however, is less than welcoming.  The ton doesn’t like the looks of these uncivilized young men.  But the brothers continue with their plans – they throw their uncle out of the family home and cut off his money and try to find their way in society.  But scandal continues to plague them.  And Mary’s unwavering support of them turns society’s suspicious eyes on her.  Her friends want to know more about the brothers, her fiancé wants her to stay away from them, and Mary just wants Sebastian. Even though Sebastian thinks she deserves so much better.
Sebastian was horribly injured during his time in the army.  He lost an eye and has terrible scars over most of one side of this body.  How could any woman stand to be with him?  And yet Mary doesn’t seem to mind at all.  She was his best friend when they were children and knew him better than anyone, except maybe Tristan.  Could it really be that the scars don’t matter to her?

After rumors blemish Mary’s reputation and her betrothed’s father forces him to withdraw his suit, the brothers know one of them must step up and marry her – both to save her reputation and to thank her for all she has done for them.  And Sebastian knows he could never let one of his brothers marry her.  But does he care for her the way she needs him to?  Or is he only grateful for her help to him and his brothers?  Is he even capable of loving anyone now or has his time away taken that from him?  Is Pembrook all that matters or does Mary still hold part of his heart?

A lot of Sebastian and Mary’s story was set up for the next two books, I think.  There was a lot of information to pass along to the reader.  Still, I always enjoy Ms. Heath’s books.  She has a way of drawing the reader into both the emotional side of the story and the intrigues that tend to surround her characters.  This series is loosely tied to her Scoundrels of St. James series.  It is not necessary to read those books before reading this one but, if you have read them, you will run across some familiar names.  I like it when an author stays consistent within the world he/she has created – it makes it seem more real.

If you are in the mood for a solid historical and a story arc that promises to continue to intrigue, look no further.  I am already anticipating the other two books.

Grade: B

Summary:

Three young heirs, imprisoned by an unscrupulous uncle, escaped—to the sea, to the streets, to faraway battle—awaiting the day when they would return to reclaim their birthright.

Sebastian Easton always vowed he would avenge his stolen youth and title. Now back in London, the rightful Duke of Keswick—returning from battle a wounded, hardened, changed man—cannot forget the brave girl who once rescued him and his brothers from certain death.

Lady Mary Wynne-Jones paid dearly for helping the imprisoned young Lords of Pembrook, and she remembers well the promise she made to Sebastian all those years ago: to meet him once more in the abbey ruins where they shared a bold, forbidden kiss. While Mary is now betrothed to another, a friendship forged with dark secrets cannot be ignored. Unexpected passion soon burns dangerously between them, tempting Sebastian to abandon his quest for retribution and fight for a love that could once again set him free.

No excerpt available.

Other books in this series:

Lord of Temptation – October 2012

It’s that time of year, faithful reader – and let me pause to say how much I appreciate you…even if no one else reads my silliness, I take comfort in the fact that the two of us do – time to list my favorite reads of 2011. These are books I read and that were published in 2011, to clarify. My list ended up looking a little different this year – I had a four-way tie for favorite. Without further ado:

My Top Ten for 2011

1. What I Did for a Duke – There was so much buzz about this that I had to pick it up, even though I was behind in the series. I am so glad I did! I can’t even explain why it was SO good. But it was my favorite historical romance of the year.

1. Kiss of Snow – This was the story fans of the Psy/Changling series have been waiting for Hawke and Sienna’s story since they first met and I was very happy with their book. My favorite paranormal book of the year.

1. Yours to Keep – I love the Kowalskis! Read this book and you will never look at Post-its the same way again. My favorite contemporary romance of the year.

1. Dragon Bound – The first book of the best series I’ve read lately. I might have liked Serpent’s Kiss a bit more but this book established the world and set up everything that follows. Since I already listed a favorite paranormal book, this is my favorite fantasy book of the year.

5. Serpent’s Kiss – Rune! Rune Rune Rune!! An excellent hero and an excellent book. Between Dragon Bound and this one, it was hard to decide which book I liked better and I thought Rune and Carling were a more even match than Dragos and Pia so I enjoyed reading about their relationship a bit more. Still, Dragon Bound was the first and a funner read (yeah, yeah…I used the word “funner”. So?!)

6. ShadowFever – Whether it ended the way you wanted or not, it was epic. EPIC!

7. Heart of Steel – Such a fun, swashbuckling read! So entertaining! Pirates! Zombies! Airships! If you haven’t read any of the Iron Seas books, you make me sad.

8. Winning the Wallflower – Even though this is a novella, I enjoyed it so much! More than the full-length book book that spun out of it, even.

9. To Love a Thief – If you like My Fair Lady-ish storylines, check this book out.

10. Silk is for Seduction – It was hard to round out my top ten but how could I go wrong with Loretta Chase?

11. A Lot Like Love – Honorary mention for this one. When I looked back at my list to find books I would recommend to anyone, this one popped out.

A bonus – biggest disappointment (no, I still haven’t let it go): Breaking the Rules. I know, I’m bitter…it’s my own fault for having high hopes.

So, there you go, my faves for last year. I already have read some good ones for this year – you’ll hear about those soon enough – and hear rumors of more coming soon. Yay!

What were some of your favorites of 2011? Do you agree with mine or are you sitting there shaking your head at your computer?

C2’s review of The Duke is Mine (Fairy Tales, Book 3) by Eloisa James
Historical Romance published by Avon 27 Dec 11

In her newest release, Eloisa James tackles another well known fairytale. She has already given us her twist on Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. This time around? The Princess and the Pea.

Thanks to a schoolboy friendship between her father and the Duke of Canterwick, Miss Olivia Lytton has been betrothed to the future duke since she was a toddler.  The older of twin girls, Olivia has been raised to be a duchess – educated in all things duchess-y, always treated as an engaged young lady, and given quiet sympathetic glances. Why sympathy when being engaged to a future duke is all some girls dream of?  Well, those girls aren’t engaged to Rupert.

Rupert, for all that he will someday inherit a dukedom, is not the brightest of bulbs.  He is younger than Olivia, shows no particular interest in her or any young lady, is not a graceful creature nor is he particularly well-spoken.  He is also stubborn – once he latches onto an idea, it is almost impossible to get him to let go. However, he is good natured and friendly, so things could be worse.

Olivia, her mother despairs, is the least duchess-like future duchess ever.  She likes bawdy jokes, she is plump, she is outspoken and loves to laugh.  Why she can’t be more like her (younger by several minutes) twin sister, Georgiana, is an often-asked question.  The girls were raised and educated together, so why is Georgiana the epitome of all things duchess-y while Olivia is…not?  It is a good thing, Mr. and Mrs. Lytton agree, that Olivia did not actually have to catch a duke on her own merit.

When Rupert decides he is going to bring glory to the family name through beats of military greatness, there is no way to dissuade him. Before he leaves, Rupert and his father visit the Lyttons to formalize the betrothal – and to give Rupert and Olivia some alone time.  The duke strongly encourages Olivia to seduce Rupert – since he is going off to war and has no siblings, an heir would be a good thing.  (An aside – OMG REALLY?  So creepy!)  Neither Olivia or Rupert have any real interest in the sort of proceedings necessary for getting an heir and, after a half-hearted effort, decide to not but say they did.

In the meantime, Olivia and Georgiana are invited to a house party at the home of the Duke of Sconce.  Rumor has it that he is looking for a wife and his mother (who apparently gets to choose) has invited the most promising candidates to the party.  Olivia and Georgiana both know this is Georgiana’s best chance at landing a duke – there aren’t very many available and she has very little dowry to offer as enticement.

Tarquin, Duke of Sconce, is all about reason.  He does not let his passions rule him – his first marriage taught him that lesson very well – and does not like dealing with the passions of others.  Quin spends his days taking care of estate business and dealing with mathematical theories.  He is not a cheerful, easy-going fellow and he knows it and he has no interest in choosing his next bride.  However, when soaked Olivia arrives on his doorstep to get help for a stranded carriage, Quin is transfixed and (literally) sweeps her off her feet.  He is unable to concentrate on anything except his desire to kiss her…and she makes him want to laugh!

Olivia doesn’t immediately realize the person she thinks is a very impertinent footman is actually the Duke of Sconce.  And even when she does, she is perplexed by his behavior.  He kissed her and said she was beautiful.  And he didn’t even know who she was!

You can see where this is headed, can’t you, faithful reader?  Olivia and Quin have immediate chemistry, but both are honorable enough to try to stay away from each other.  Olivia does feel some loyalty to Rupert, bless his heart.  Plus, she doesn’t want to ruin her sister’s chance at happiness.  Quin doesn’t think he wants a wife who makes him feel things…but he definitely wants Olivia.  And neither can stay away from the other.  But what about Rupert?  And Quin’s prospective brides?  Will love triumph?  Heh.  What do you think?

I enjoyed this book, overall.  I like Olivia (much more than when we met her in the Winning the Wallflower novella) and Quin and find the premise interesting – with all the emphasis on marrying, there must have been a good many people who found a better match after they were betrothed to someone else.

I will say it feel like the story could have ended a few chapters earlier than it does.  It seems like a lot of effort was made to tie up the Rupert situation when a few pages might have worked just as well. And the fairytale connection feels a bit forced, as opposed to the previous books where it did not.  Still, the extra bit of story gives Quin a chance to have an adventure and it is entertaining.  If you’re looking for a fun read, this might be just the ticket.

It isn’t the strongest entry in the series, but it wis an enjoyable book all the same.  This book is tied slightly to Winning the Wallflower, an e-novella that I enjoyed immensely (hey, look – I reviewed it here).  It isn’t necessary to read WtW first (or at all), but it is very good!  Does The Duke is Mine stand alone from the rest of the Fairy Tale series?  Absolutely – all the books in the series stand alone.

Grade: B

Summary:
Tarquin, the powerful Duke of Sconce, knows perfectly well that the decorous and fashionably slender Georgiana Lytton will make him a proper duchess. So why can’t he stop thinking about her twin sister, the curvy, headstrong, and altogether unconventional Olivia? Not only is Olivia betrothed to another man, but their improper, albeit intoxicating, flirtation makes her unsuitability all the more clear.

Determined to make a perfect match, he methodically cuts Olivia from his thoughts, allowing logic and duty to triumph over passion…Until, in his darkest hour, Tarquin begins to question whether perfection has anything to do with love.

To win Olivia’s hand he would have to give up all the beliefs he holds most dear, and surrender heart, body and soul…

Unless it’s already too late.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of How the Marquess Was Won (Pennyroyal Green, Book 6) by Julie Anne Long
Historical Romance published by Avon 27 Dec 11

In Julie Anne Long’s newest release, we return to Pennyroyal Green. This time around, the Redmonds and Everseas play a supportive role instead of being the focus.  They still manage to stay in the thick of things, though. Spoilers ahead (but not too many, I hope) – enter at your own risk!

Julian Spenser, Marquess Dryden, (aka Lord Ice, also aka Jules) has come to Pennyroyal Green on a family errand and to attend a house party at the Redmonds.  Miss Lisbeth Redmond is of marriageable age and there has been speculation that Lord Dryden is interested.  Jules is interested
in part of Lisbeth’s dowry.  A bit of land that was once a portion of his mother’s dowry before his father gambled it away.  Jules has spent most of his adult life cleaning up messes left by his father.  Finally, the family name is respected, the family fortunes have been restored and everything is falling into place.  The last piece is the bit of land the Redmonds own.

Phoebe Vale is a teacher at a girls’ school – the school she attended. Phoebe grew up in the Seven Dials section of London – a very dangerous area – but, after her parents were gone, a mysterious benefactor arranged for her to be brought to Pennyroyal Green and educated at the academy. In addition to her teaching duties at Miss Endicott’s academy, Phoebe once was a tutor to Lisbeth Redmond.

[A random aside - for the first hundred pages or so, every time I read “Miss Vale”, I heard bits of Prince’s Bat Dance. If you’re close to my age, you’ll know the bit I’m talking about; if not...you kids get off my lawn! *grumpy face*]

Onward!

Phoebe knows a lot about Lord Dryden from reading gossip sheets.  He attracts a lot of attention and is something of a trendsetter.  When she actually sees him for the first time (at a shop in town), however, he is even more impressive than she imagined.

“He seemed taller than…anyone.  And suddenly all the hats and ribbons and buttons and gloves seemed like gaudy props arranged on a stage, awaiting just his arrival all these years.”

Later, when he visits Miss Endicott’s academy – to see if it might be an acceptable place for a young cousin to attend – Phoebe is tasked with giving him a tour of the facilities.  During the tour, they begin verbally sparring with each other – and enjoying it immensely.

Faithful reader, I must say the whole tour of the academy is one of the loveliest extended scenes I’ve read in ages.  Watching Phoebe and Jules slowly get a feel for the other’s personality and wit and, perhaps, recognizing a kindred spirit?  It’s this kind of interaction that make me love romances above all else.  So sweet and emotional and fun and poignant.  Eventually, their small talk turns a bit more personal and her reaction to him this time is more focused.

“He’s meant for me.

The thought emerged from nowhere, fresh as a slap and seemed as true as it was dumbfounding.  She stared at him, bewildered.  She’d never had a thought like that in her entire life.”

I like the sense of immediate connection – it just screams romance, don’t you think?  Even if the characters don’t acknowledge it until later, it’s there.  Also, the idea that no one else ever really has bothered to know Jules – everyone is happy with just seeing the image he presented (or was presented for him by gossip) – is intriguing.  How often does anyone really look below the surface of the people around them?

Phoebe has been invited to the Redmonds’ to serve as chaperone/companion to Lisbeth. Since Phoebe has been planning to go to Africa with a group of missionaries, she decides a last bit of fun in a luxurious house might be just the thing. But Lisbeth is different and treats Phoebe more like a servant than a friend. And Jules is there and the connection between him and Phoebe gets stronger. But Jules makes a big mistake. BIG.

Still, the (OMG huge) misstep Jules makes by asking Phoebe to be his mistress seems true to the period and his character.  Jules is focused on accomplishing his last goal and getting the land that had been part of his mother’s dowry.  And a marquess marrying a school teacher??  Very unlikely, regardless of his feelings.  Of course, even though she was an orphan, Phoebe has been brought up well, so it’s rude of him to issue that sort of proposition, I’m thinking.  I’ll leave the historical wrangling of all things etiquette-ish to others, though.

After the house party, two of Lisbeth’s friends invite Phoebe to go with them to London for a few weeks. There will be outings and parties and all sorts of fun to be had and Phoebe is curious about London since she hasn’t been back since she was a child, so she agrees to go. What she doesn’t realize is her hostesses are in cahoots with a couple of bored “gentlemen” who are also attending the house party. They think it will be great fun to play a trick on the Ton by making Phoebe the toast of the town and then exposing her as a nobody.

The casual cruelty of the supporting characters – toying with the life of someone so totally beneath them is just a lark – also rang true and it’s lovely to see them get their just rewards for their behavior, I must say.  And their awful prank does serve a purpose – it helps Jules figure out what really matters to him.

A bit more info – the prologue is a glimpse into the happenings six weeks after the beginning of chapter one. Some people hate prologues, I know, but this one hooks you. You have to find out how things got to that point! Still, if that’s not your thing, you’ve been warned. Also, I recommend going back and reading the prologue after you finish the book. Just do it, trust me.

Does the book stand alone? I say yes. Sure, the Redmonds and Everseas are there, but enough of their backstory is passed along to give a feel for things without being an info-dump. For those who have read the previous books, there are a few more interesting bits of info about Olivia and Lyon. All in all, this is an excellent entry into a series that is just getting better and better.

Finally, an honorary award for best feline performance goes to Charybdis. A very accurate depiction of a cat, I must say.  :-D

Grade: A+

Summary:

The Scandal Sheets call him Lord Ice.

Ruthless, cold, precise, Julian Spenser, Marquess Dryden, tolerates only the finest—in clothes, in horseflesh, in mistresses. And now he’s found the perfect bride, the one whose dowry will restore his family’s shattered legacy and bring him peace at last: the exquisite heiress Lisbeth Redmond.

She’s not afraid to play with fire…

But one unforgettable encounter with Lisbeth’s paid companion, Phoebe Vale, and the Marquess is undone: this quiet girl with the wicked smile and a wit to match is the first person to see through the icy façade to the fiery man beneath. But their irresistible attraction is a torment as sweet as it is dangerous: for surrendering to their desire could mean losing everything else they ever wanted.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Slow Ride (Fast Track, Book 5) by Erin McCarthy
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 4 Oct 11

In Erin McCarthy’s latest NASCAR book, Tuesday Jones (aka racing blogger Tuesday Talledega) gets her chance in the spotlight.

Tuesday Jones meets a handsome stranger as she is leaving her father’s graveside service – and has a breakdown on his sympathetic shoulder. Only later does she realize her good Samaritan is retired NASCAR driver Daniel “Diesel” Lange.  Diesel retired from racing after a horrible crash left him with career-ending injuries.  He has built a business restoring old cars and has very little to do with the racing world.

Tuesday and Diesel have chemistry and neither is interested in anything serious, so they start casually seeing each other.  Of course, casual never lasts long, does it, faithful reader?  Soon enough, both realize they are spending way too much time thinking about the other person and anticipating their time together more than a “casual” relationship would explain.

To honor her father’s career (he was a writer and covered racing extensively) and raise money for cancer research – and help her deal with his loss – Tuesday decides to have a charity event and auction and Diesel offers one of his restored cars for the auction.  But Tuesday continues to struggle and often finds solace in a wine bottle.

I am sure we, as readers, are supposed to feel sympathetic toward Tuesday, but she is so self-involved and such an obnoxious drunk it is hard to be anything other than annoyed.  And the fact that her friends and family are not particularly concerned is baffling to me. Maybe their behavior is supposed to mimic real life?  I hope people don’t really do that.

Diesel, on the other hand, would probably be a very nice, not-so-talkative, normal guy in real life – and no one would give it any thought.  However, as the hero of a romance novel, he seems lacking. At least he is concerned about Tuesday’s drinking.

I struggled with this book.  Tuesday is unbelievable and self-centered with obvious issues and in serious need of therapy.  Diesel is really just a normal, boring guy who gets sucked into Tuesday’s crazy world.  In real life, couples like this make me scratch my head and wonder how short the relationship will be.  That we are asked to believe these characters will live happily ever after (without serious therapy) is surprising.  Yes, toward the end, Ms. McCarthy tries to show emotional growth or self-realization or something, but it seems like too little too late.

For a series that started out so well, the last two books of the Fast Track series have been very disappointing (except the covers – they are consistently fab).  I am still willing to check out the next book because Elec and Evan’s sister is the heroine and that could be fun…and maybe even get the series back on track? However, my expectations are low.

In the meantime, does this book stand alone? Mostly.  It would probably make more sense if you read The Chase – Tuesday’s best friend Kendall’s book.  Do I recommend reading The Chase? No.  Nor do I recommend this book, unless you are a hardcore fan of the series and have enjoyed all the previous books.

Grade: D

Summary:
As a tribute to her late journalist father, Tuesday Jones is planning a career benefit, auctioning off racing memorabilia and meet-and-greets with drivers. Ex-racing star Diesel Lange has had his own brush with death, and is determined not to waste another minute of his life- especially when he meets Tuesday. He wants nothing more than to shift their romance into high gear, but he knows she’s still grieving. Can Diesel do the one thing he could never do on the track and take it slow?

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Winning the Wallflower (Fairy Tales Series, Book 2.5) by Eloisa James
Historical Romance published by Avon 6 Dec 11

What happens when a recently-engaged (to a gentlemen in trade) wallflower suddenly inherits a fortune? Suddenly her parents have much higher expectations for her marriage possibilities. But what about her current fiance? In Eloisa James new novella, we find out.

Mister Cyrus Ravensthorpe grew up under a cloud of scandal, but he has A Plan to restore his family to their rightful place in society. His plan is proceeding nicely – one important step has just been taken…finding an acceptable bride. Mister Ravensthorpe has recently become engaged to Lady Lucy Towerton.

Lady Lucy considered herself a wallflower. Taller than most of the gentlemen of the ton, she always felt awkward and uncomfortable. Imagine her surprise when the very handsome and wealthy Mister Ravensthorpe asked her father for her hand in marriage! Still, as they spent some time getting acquainted, Lucy realized they never really connected. No real conversation – he didn’t even ask to use her given name – they mostly spent their very proper visits playing Backgammon.

Suddenly Lucy’s life is sent spinning. She finds out she has inherited her great aunt’s fortune. Her parents are very excited because they think Lucy’s chances of finding a noble husband have now increased exponentially. All she has to do is break her engagement to Mister Ravensthorpe. Lucy is reluctant – she has a bit of a crush on Cyrus – and plans with her best friend, Olivia, to be found in a compromising position with her betrothed. No chance of breaking the engagement then!

But you know the old saying about the best laid plans, don’t you, faithful reader? Cyrus arrives at the ball Lucy is attending and hears of her recent good fortune and sees his plan hit a stumbling block. Meanwhile, Lucy’s plan to be caught with her betrothed also doesn’t go as she thinks it will.

Lucy realizes she deserves someone actually interested in her and not someone who sees her as a convenient Available Perfect Noble Lady. Cyrus realizes he might have chosen Lucy for reasons other than the fact she fit into his Plan. But can he convince Lucy?

I really enjoyed this novella. It’s a quick, fun read and doesn’t feel at all rushed or compressed. The story is in no way shorted and it does not feel like a setup for Ms. James’ next full-length book. Cyrus and Lucy are a fun couple and their interactions are lively and sweet. Does it stand alone? Absolutely. Is it worth your $0.99 investment? Most definitely. At this busy time of year, you might not have the available time to invest in a full length book, but this one is just right. Treat yourself!

Grade: A+

Summary:

It Could Only Happen in a Fairytale…

Lady Lucy Towerton
Plain and tall. (According to the lady herself.)
Titled, and irreproachably proper. (According to her fiancé.)

Until, overnight, she becomes

Lady Lucy Towerton
Heiress. (Thanks to an aged aunt’s bequest.)
Belle of the Ball. (So say the fortune hunters of the ton.)

In charge of her own destiny (finally!), Lucy breaks her engagement and makes up her mind to never be proper again…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Hearts and Swords (Celta’s HeartMates, Book 11) by Robin D. Owens
Fantasy/Paranormal Romance released by Berkley 6 Dec 11

What do cryogenics, matchmakers, scandalous divorcees and talking animals have in common?  You might be surprised.  Robin D. Owens’ latest release is a collection of four novellas all set in her Celta universe.

For those new to the series, Celta is a planet where Earthlings with psychic powers found refuge after fleeing persecution.  Similar but different, something about Celta soon stopped Earth machinery from working.  However, psychic abilities continue to increase in strength and variety.  This time around a couple of the original colonists and supporting characters from previous books all get their happy endings.

Heart and Swords

In Hearts and Swords, original colonist Kelse Bountry is unexpectedly awakened from cryogenic sleep after the murder of the captain of the spaceship he is traveling in.  Kelse and others with psi talents are fleeing persecution on Earth, looking for an Earth-like planet to establish their own civilization on.

Kelse and his wife Fern were not supposed to be awakened until a planet had been found and the ship was about to land – they expected to be in stasis for about 75 years.  However, after the captain’s murder, the executive officer wakes Kelse and tells him he must take over.  And instead of sleeping for 75 years it has been nearly 250!  There are mutineers aboard – people who have grown up on the ship – who have no interest in finding a new planet.  They either want to go back to Earth or just keep traveling.

Kelse wants to take care of the problem and get the ship to a planet. He talked Fern into the whole space travel thing and he knows she would be very uncomfortable, so Kelse wants her to stay asleep until they are on the ground somewhere safe.  The ship (if you’re interested in the Ship, Nuada’s Sword, check out Heart Thief) has other ideas and soon Fern is awake and embroiled with the mutineers too.

I enjoyed this glimpse into the events that brought the colonists to Celta.  There have been bits of the story scattered through the series, but, like most history, the interesting personal bits are forgotten or glossed over or completely changed.  We see the beginnings of the Heart Mate/Heart Bond too.

Grade: A

Heart Story

Blush Willow was kept from her Heart Mate by her mean-spirited, scheming mother – a renowned matchmaker, of all things. Now, years later, her mother has passed away and her Heart Mate, Dri Paris, has returned from the distant city he fled to after Blush’s mother threatened his family.

Both Blush and Dri are bitter about what her mother did.  And each blame the other for not being strong enough to stand up to her – even though they were teenagers and she held a powerful position in society.  Can two adults get past their anger and distrust to find the love they know is waiting for them?

This story is the weakest. The plot is thin and the characters are not so interesting. I don’t remember being interested in Blush when I read the book this story is connected to, so…

Grade: C-

Heart and Soul

Then we move to Heart and Soul and change locations from Druida to Gael City, which is much less familiar to longtime readers of the series.

Genista Furze shocked the upper echelons of Druida City by divorcing her husband…that just isn’t done in the First Families.  Genista realized that it would be better for everyone if they were no longer together, though, and freed him to be with his Heart Mate (if you wanna know more about that, check out Heart Fate).

Now she has moved to another city and is living a much quieter life under a different name.  She has a house and a job and an attentive (and handsome) next door neighbor.  But there is more to him than meets the eye.  Her ex-husband’s family hired him to watch over her and keep her safe.

Apparently, her secret identity isn’t as much of a secret as she thought.  When a burglary ring targets her house, many truths are revealed.

It’s nice to see the other side of Genista. In Heart Fate and previous Holly-centric books, she was pretty one-dimensional, if I recall correctly. Mostly she was an obstacle and shallow party girl. Here she has made a new start and is focusing on the things that make her happy, instead of worrying so much about what others think.

Grade: B

Noble Heart

Finally, we have Noble Heart.  Walker Clover is happy with his life – he is one of the many Clover boys, lives in Clover Compound with his family, and has a job he loves.  Walker is tutor to one of the Druida FirstFamilies – the Ashes.  When young Nuin Ash enters his first Passage – a feverish dream state that releases the person’s Flair (psi ability – it varies from person to person and can be anything from art to healing to weaponry) – Walker’s Passage is triggered, as well.  But Walker is an adult who has always thought he had only the basic amount of Flair required to operate Celtan machinery.  By adulthood, highly Flaired Celtans have endured three Passages and Walker has never experienced Passage at all – and suddenly he experiences all three Passages at one time.  Most unpleasant.  And dangerous – not everyone survives Passage.

After Walker wakes up and is told what happened to him (at first it’s thought he’s sick), he is tested to see what his new Flair talent is.  He is surprised to learn his talent may lead him to a very important political position.  Walker is not pleased with the direction his life is taking, but he recognizes that his new Flair will help his family move upward in Celtan society – there are four main classes: Commoners, Grace Houses, Grand Houses and First Families.  Walker’s new flair catapults his family from Commoner status to Grand House status.

Walker and his allies recognize that he will need assistance to navigate his new position in society.  He also must pass a test to assume his new position.  He chooses Sedwy Grove to help him learn how to deal with his new situation.  Sedwy’s mother formerly held the position Walker may eventually attain.  Plus, she’s pretty and smells nice.

Will Walker be able to adjust to his new power and potential?  And will Sedwy be able to move past the scandal in her past and take her rightful place next to him?

This is my favorite of the bunch. The Clovers are a fun family and I really like Walker. It is a nice change to see a hero who isn’t uber ambitious and power hungry.

Grade: A

I must say, I very much like this novella format.  There are several series I would LOVE to see something similar from (I’m looking at you, Nalini Singh and Meljean Brook).

Do the stories stand alone? Maybe – the first story, especially. The others tie in with previous books, so a new reader might feel like they are missing something, although Ms. Owens does a good job of summarizing previous events. Certainly by reading these stories, a newbie would have a good feel for the world she has created.

If you’ve never tried the Celta series, I urge you to try it. The world Ms. Owens has created continues to expand and evolve.  (Also, unrelated to anything, it’s nice to see the art department is returning to form on the cover format.  The cover for Heart Journey was unfortunate.) It is such a consistantly excellent series and seems to get very little buzz – it makes me sad. Check it out, faithful reader. If you hate it, come back and tell me why. If you love it, tell a friend.

Overall grade: B

Summary:

Heart and Sword
Captain Kelse Bountry leads a colony fleet in search of a habitable planet. His Ship is far off course and his crew is on the verge of mutiny, circumstances that threaten both the success of Kelse’s mission and his marriage. But Fern Bountry is not about to give up on either…

Heart and Soul
Genista Furze, scandalous ex-wife of Tinne Holly, has created a new life for herself working for a clockmaker in small Gael City. Content with simplicity, and learning to value herself, Genista is in no hurry to risk her heart on another man – no matter how attractive her neighbor is…

Noble Heart
Walker Clover is experiencing Passage – the dreamquest to free his psi power – and learns that he possesses a flair for magic. When his parents learn of his abilities they reveal that his real mother was a noblewoman. Now, Celta’s FirstFamilies scheme to forge an alliance with Walker through offers of marriage – a prospect he finds abhorrent until he meets the mysterious Sedwy Grove…

Heart Story
A year has passed since Blush Willow’s domineering and murderous mother died, and Blush has drawn her hidden HeartMate, Dri Paris, to her. All should be well. But when they finally meet, unresolved anger at the past – and each other – flares between them. Yet they must work together to find a treasure and save Dri’s family.

No excerpt available.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Serendipity (Serendipity Series, Book 1) by Carly Phillips
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 6 Sep 11

I seem to be on a good run with contemporaries lately.  Carly Phillips is an author I hadn’t read in ages – too many books, too little time – until Serendipity turned up in my mailbox.  Since I was in a contemporary mood, I decided to try it and see what I had been missing out on.  I really enjoyed this story.

Faith Harrington has just returned to her hometown to start a new life. Her father is in jail after swindling lots of people – including many residents of Serendipity – and her (now) ex-husband, who had used her father’s influence to further his career but managed to remain unscathed, was cheating on her.  Now all Faith wants is to take back her life, be herself and make it on her own.  The last thing she expects is to bump into her high-school-bad-boy secret crush.

Ethan Barron has also returned home to make some changes in his life. Ethan feels responsible for the death of his parents – and the result of his younger brothers ending up in foster care.  His parents were on their way to deal with some consequences of his youthful bad choices when they were killed in a car accident.  Years later, Ethan still blames himself…and so do his brothers (ah yes, faithful reader, the sweet, sweet smell of sequel bait).  Now Ethan can work wherever and has returned to Serendipity to try to mend things with his brothers.  The last thing he expects is to suddenly be responsible for a sister he never knew he had.

Apparently, his dad, who traveled a lot for work, had a long-term girlfriend in another town and they had a child together just before his father was killed.  Now the girlfriend is dead and the half-sister cannot deal with their mutual half-sister any longer.  His little sister, Tess, has already been in and out of trouble at school and with the police and needs more adult supervision than her half-sister can provide.  Kelly (the out-of-her-depth sister) tells Ethan that Tess is his for the summer.  Ethan decides he isn’t going to abandon another sibling who needs him – besides, he recognizes some of his youthful rebellion in Tess.  And maybe he and his brothers can work together to help her get back on track before it’s too late.

But what about Faith?  After meeting her again, Ethan realizes the old spark of attraction is still there – maybe more now than when they were young.  He wants to see where things will go and needs a way to keep her from avoiding him.  Conveniently, he moves into the fancy house she grew up in (it had to be sold after her dad’s legal problems) and it needs some serious redecorating.  Faith’s new business in town is interior design.  Perfect!  He will be her first (only – the townspeople aren’t exactly excited to see her) client and will help her get the new business off the ground.  Faith is reluctant.  She just got out of a bad relationship and is still reeling from her father’s situation.  Still, beggars can’t be choosers and she needs the business.

Faith and Ethan both are trying to find their way and fighting the shadows of their former selves. The townspeople can’t see past the idea of Faith being the spoiled daughter of the man who stole their money. Ethan’s brothers can’t get past their anger and still blame him for ruining their lives. Will they manage? Well, this is the first book in a series so, yeah. But, since it is a series there are plot points left dangling. Ethan’s relationships with his brothers is still unsettled and Faith’s relationship with her mother is not completely comfortable.

All in all, I enjoyed Serendipity. The characters and storyline weren’t the most unique, but Ms. Phillips stays out of cookie cutter territory and I remained engaged enough to be interested in where the next book will take things.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Faith Harrington was the classic girl of privilege–until her father was convicted of running a Ponzi scheme and then her marriage crashed and burned.

Now Faith is back in her hometown, hoping for a fresh start. But her father’s betrayal has rocked Serendipity – and not everyone is ready to welcome her with open arms. Then she runs into her teenage crush — the dark, brooding Ethan Barron. Ethan, no stranger to scandal himself, never imagined he’d own the mansion on the hill, much less ever again come face to face with Faith–the princess he once kissed senseless. The chance meeting reignites the electric charge between them.

Still, when Ethan hires her to redecorate what was once her childhood home, Faith is sure that getting involved with the town’s notorious bad boy will only lead to trouble. But her heart has other ideas. And so do the townspeople of Serendipity …

Read an excerpt. (click link)

C2’s review of A Home by the Sea (Summer Island, Book 1) by Christina Skye
Contemporary Romance published by HQN Books 18 Oct 11

A woman dealing with betrayal and heartbreak. A man dealing with terrible loss and pressures. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? You might be surprised.

Grace Lindstrom is a food historian – a career I find fascinating, by the way. She is in Washington DC because the Smithsonian has a huge opportunity in the works and she would love to be involved. Grace is still wrestling with the aftermath of her fiance’s death. After he was killed in a plane crash, she found out he had been cheating on her. With lots of people, including some so-called friends. She is not interested in a romantic entanglement – not even if a fabulous guy stumbles into her path.

Noah McKay is an explosives expert – not a relationship-friendly occupation, to be sure. He works for an unnamed goverment-y office that disarms and analyzes bombs and provides that info to other law enforcement types. Noah and his family are still grieving because one of his brothers was killed by a bomb. Noah is struggling with guilt, even though he was not called to deal with the situation that led to his brother’s death.

One snowy night, Noah is walking home and hears a strange sound coming from an alley. He investigates and finds Grace rescuing a mama cat, her kittens, and a puppy. Since roads are quickly becoming impassible, he calls his dad to come get them in his Hummer. The whole group goes back and spends the night at Noah’s parents’ house. Sure…that totally happens.

Noah is interested and doesn’t pretend otherwise. Grace, however, is reluctant. She is still in “can’t trust any man” mode, thanks to her late fiance. Noah calls and texts but she ignores him – so rude! Just tell him you’re not interested, for crying out loud…oh, but wait, you are interested. You’re just a big chicken.

Anyhoo, eventually Grace starts to get over her fear – she gets the cool job and decides to try a relationship with Noah. Just when things are getting started, she gets a call and has to go back to her home town in Oregon. Her grandfather has been injured and is in the hospital. Grace is his only family. Noah understands and encourages her to do whatever she needs to – he will be waiting.

When Grace arrives in Oregon, her grandfather is in a coma but his injuries aren’t life-threatening. He is in good health and should recover without too much difficulty, probably. Still, it will be a while before he is able to resume anything like his normal life and will need to slow down. Someone will have to step in and help out with his animal clinic. Also, Grace’s best friends have a new business venture they are starting and invite her to join them. Since she passed up the Smithsonian opportunity when her grandfather was hurt, Grace is interested and decides to join them. The work getting a business ready to go gives her something to focus on besides worrying about her grandfather.

During her time in Oregon, Grace and Noah have been texting and talking to each other. Finally he is able to get some time off comes to visit. Even though there are lots of obstacles, Noah and Grace can see where they are headed and want to move forward with each other. *happy sigh*

Alert for those readers who are absolutely anti-paranormal: there is the occasional ghostly presence drifting through the book.  It’s very unobtrusive and sweet, I think, but if you cannot stand that sort of thing and don’t want to be ambushed…well, you’ve been warned.

Does this book stand alone? Since I haven’t read the novella that introduced the series, I have to say yes. In fact, finding out who the lead couple is in the novella makes me feel better about one of the supporting characters in this book (I was afraid someone might get killed off to make way for a later HEA).

I love Ms. Skye’s Draycott Abbey series, but I never got into her Code Name books. So when I saw that her next series was going to be similar to her older books, I was intrigued.  There is something so comforting about her writing style – reading this book is like curling up with a favorite blanket on a cold night.  The story is filled with interesting, well-rounded characters (some with obvious spin-off potential).  Even though I have a quibble with Grace ignoring phone calls for a couple of weeks and being all “I’m not ready,” if you’re looking for a good contemporary without silliness and with just enough heat, you should totally check out A Home by the Sea.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Grace Lindstrom has followed her fiancé across three continents, starry-eyed and full of dreams. But when he dies in a plane crash, Grace discovers that their life together was the cruelest kind of lie—and swears to never lose herself to that kind of love again. Until one night, when a chance encounter leads her to the kind of man she’s always dreamed of—and the deep family ties she’s never known.

Noah McKay knows he can’t offer Grace any kind of future—not when he spends every day putting his life on the line. But when Grace’s grandfather suddenly falls ill and she’s called home to the small island town where she grew up, he realizes he can’t live without her. Aided by good knitting, good chocolate and deep friendship, Grace is slowly learning to trust again—but can she learn to love a man whose secrets run so deep?

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Heart of Steel (Iron Seas, Book 4) by Meljean Brook
Steampunk Romance published by Berkley 1 Nov 11

In the mood for a book with an unapologetically kick-ass heroine? One who doesn’t even pretend she needs a big, strong man to take care of her? What if her hero totally digs that about her and doesn’t want to change her? Intrigued??

In Meljean Brook’s latest installment in her Iron Seas series, Lady Corsair (aka Yasmeen) steps onto the main stage. She had a prominent supporting role in The Iron Duke and events that occur in that book play a very important role in Heart of Steel.

The last time Lady Corsair saw Archimedes Fox, she dropped him into the seas around Venice – and zombies were closing in! I mean, what’s a captain to do when a passenger tries to take control of her air ship? So imagine her surprise when he pops back into her life several months later? Well, kidnaps her off the street several months later…

Archimedes Fox is an adventurer – think about a Regency rake version of Indiana Jones.  In fact, his adventures are chronicled in very popular stories written by his sister.  Archimedes wants Yasmeen – he wants to seduce her, he wants to fall in love, and he wants to experience heartbreak – and he figures she is just the lady for the job to help him experience all those feelings.  She doesn’t trust men and usually uses them briefly, if she’s interested, and tosses them aside before they get close enough to betray her.  He isn’t willing to have a quick fling and be tossed aside, though. He wants to know her and is willing to earn her trust – as much as she is able to give.

Before the seduction can really begin, Yasmeen and Archimedes are swept up in a treasure hunt that is entwined with political intrigue.  And it brings up a lot of things from both of their pasts that continue to affect them.

That’s the thing about these characters – they are adults and behave as such.  They both are aware of the issues, good and bad, that have shaped their lives and know having any sort of real relationship won’t be easy. Sometimes, though, you can’t help yourself.  And once they decide to trust each other (no small thing for these two), they trust each other.  And stand together against all sorts of enemies.

If you want a story filled with adventure and intrigue and treasure hunts, with murder and mayhem and machinery, with ZOMBIES! – this is the book for you. The world Ms. Brook has built is fascinating and rich and filled with interesting characters. If you like steampunk and haven’t already started reading this series – go to the bookstore of your choice immediately. If you’ve never tried steampunk but love a good story, see above. You should try this series.

Does this book stand alone? No. Events in The Iron Duke set up this story – and besides that, it is a fabulous book. My number one read for last year! And the novella that started the series was my number two read for last year! That should tell you something, faithful reader. Sometimes the hype is true.

Grade: A+

Summary:

As the mercenary captain of the Lady Corsair, Yasmeen has learned to keep her heart as cold as steel, her only loyalty bound to her ship and her crew. So when a man who once tried to seize her airship returns from the dead, Yasmeen will be damned if she gives him another opportunity to take control.

Treasure-hunter Archimedes Fox isn’t interested in the Lady Corsair — he wants her coldhearted captain and the valuable da Vinci sketch she stole from him. To reclaim it, Archimedes is determined to seduce the stubborn woman who once tossed him to a ravenous pack of zombies, but she’s no easy conquest.

When da Vinci’s sketch attracts a dangerous amount of attention, Yasmeen and Archimedes journey to Horde-occupied Morocco — and straight into their enemy’s hands. But as they fight to save themselves and a city on the brink of rebellion, the greatest peril Yasmeen faces is from the man who seeks to melt her icy heart…

Read an excerpt. (scroll down)

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of A Beginner’s Guide to Rakes (Scandalous Brides, Book 1) by Suzanne Enoch
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 4 Oct 11

Revenge! Blackmail! Wheeeee! It’s always fun to read about a couple with a history – especially when things ended badly.  And if revenge and blackmail are in the picture? Win!  Heh.

Diane Benchley, Lady Cameron, and her husband fled England under a cloud of debt several years before we meet her.  Diane has been a widow for a few years and finally has returned to London.  She has plans. Plans that, if successful, will keep her from depending on a man for her livelihood ever again.  To bring her plans to fruition she needs the assistance of Oliver Warren, Marquis of Haybury – whether he wants to help or not.

The last person Oliver expects to see in London is Diane Benchley.  When he last saw her, Diane was recently widowed and living in Vienna.  They had a brief fling before he returned to England without a word of farewell.  Not a good way to end things, faithful reader.

Diane has returned to open a gentlemen’s club.  Her original lordly male “helper” was killed in an accident and now she needs to find someone else to help her make sure she has covered all the bases necessary with the club – the right look, the right games, the right feel.  The only person she trusts to assist her is Oliver – not because of any good feelings toward him but because she has a very incriminating letter that would ruin his reputation if it were made public. Blackmail!

Diane is not the same person Oliver knew in Vienna.  She has grown a thick skin and sharp tongue.  He is still attracted to her – although less so when she threatens to publish the letter unless he assists with the club (both financially and in an advisory role).  Of course, Oliver looks for a way to turn things to his advantage, but it isn’t easy. Diane has thought of everything and isn’t falling for his charms a second time.

Naturally, over the course of getting the club ready and establishing it as a real option for the gentlemen of the ton, Oliver and Diane have much more contact than either would have first imagined.  And although both start out looking for weaknesses to exploit, they find they have more than just the club in common and enjoy each other’s company a great deal.

I believed the characters’ growth.  The lessening of Diane’s bitterness over time and Oliver’s realization about why he left Vienna is nicely written.  And the idea of a young widow coming to London and opening a gentlemen’s club – staffed by young women – is an interesting (if unlikely) one.  Of course, it might be completely accurate, historically speaking – what do I know?  As long as I’m entertained and the author makes me believe it, I’m good.

The subplot with Diane’s brother-in-law did nothing for me.  If I have to guess (and I am), I would say it might serve as a basis for Oliver and the Duke of Greaves to become friends again so one of the ladies working at the club might eventually become a duchess.  But again – what do I know?  The idea that several of the club’s employees are young ladies of good birth in bad circumstances is a welcome new twist on the sisters/schoolmates/best pals thread that ties together other series.

A small quibble or two regarding marketing choices – the title seems to have nothing to do with the book. At all. Diane didn’t need a guide to rakes and didn’t provide one to anyone else. Also, throughout the book Diane wears nothing but black, except for two special occasions (when she still wore deep colors) – it’s her thing to be distinctive and stuff, plus she looks good in black. So why is the person on the cover wearing white?? Ah well…

I enjoyed Diane and Oliver’s story and look forward to seeing more of the ladies of the Tantalus Club find their Happily Ever Afters.

Grade:  B

Summary:

All of London is abuzz with the return of the utterly alluring, recently widowed Diane Benchley. Will she remarry? What will she do with her late husband’s fortune? Sociey is shocked by her announcement—at the Grand Ball, of all places!—that she plans to open an exclusive gentleman’s gaming club in the family mansion. But no one is more stunned than the Marquis of Haybury, Oliver Warren.
Years ago, Oliver and Diane shared a private indiscretion. Now Diane threatens to reveal Oliver’s most ungentlemanly secrets…unless he agrees to help her. A notorious gambler—and rake—Oliver is overqualified to educate Diane in the ways and means of running her establishment. But striking a deal with Diane might just be the biggest risk Oliver has ever taken. This time, the only thing he has to lose is his heart…

No excerpt available. ( It appears the author’s website hasn’t been updated since her next most recent book which was published in 2010.)

C2’s review of Serpent’s Kiss (Elder Races, Book 3) by Thea Harrison
Paranormal Romance published by Berkley 4 Oct 11

In Serpent’s Kiss we get another different view of the Elder Races (in Book 1, we got an overview; in Book 2, a micro-view of the politics). This is a much more intimate book – it concentrates almost entirely on Rune, a gryphon Wyr, and Carling, queen of the Vampyres.  It must focus on them because they are racing to find a cure for Carling’s condition before she dies.

First, faithful reader, I must tell you that I love Rune!  He has replaced Dragos as my favorite Wyr.  Rune is such an interesting mix of
laid-back calm and kick-ass defender.  He can be lazy and affectionate one minute and in full attack mode the next.  Maybe that’s the feline in him?  <3  And once he decides to go after something?  Stand back!

Carling, who hasn’t been able to feed on blood for a very long time, is a succubus.  She feeds off the emotions of creatures around her – which makes it nice to have Rune around, since he is filled with all sorts of tasty strong emotions.

Carling knows she is dying.  She has been studying what happens to Vampyres as they reach great ages since she first lost the ability to feed off blood.  Carling has recently been having “episodes” where she is suddenly…absent.  She loses track of time and is unresponsive to those around her.  Unless she finds a cure, Carling will not live much longer.  Rune refuses to let that happen.  For all that he only came to her because he promised her a favor of her choice – a very big deal among the Elder Races – if she saved Tiago (in Book 2, Storm’s Heart), he finds himself increasingly intrigued by and attracted to Carling.

Carling, on the other hand, although she wants to find a cure, seems more resigned to her fate.  Her emotions are so much more distant than Rune’s (his emotions aren’t distant at all), even though they are both ancient creatures.  They aren’t the only people interested in Carling’s condition, however.  When the King of Vampyres finds out Carling has left her voluntary seclusion and that her episodes are affecting the world around her, he sends people to kill her.  Carling and Rune manage to escape and go on the run, in hopes that they find the information they need to save Carling before they are caught and before Carling has another episode and is lost forever.

Will they find a cure? What if Rune and Carling have found each other only as one is about to slip away? Oh, you know you want to find out for yourself, faithful reader. I am so enjoying the Elder Races series. Their world gets richer and deeper and more interesting with each book. And each story just leaves me wanting more. And did I mention that I love Rune? Love!

Grade: A

Summary:

In the latest Novel of the Elder Races, a Queen on the brink of sanity has no one to rely on except the Wyr warrior whose conviction is every bit as strong as his passion…

In order to save his friend’s life, Wyr sentinel Rune Ainissesthai made a bargain with Vampyre Queen Carling—without knowing what she would ask from him in return. But when Rune attempts to make good on his debt, he finds a woman on the edge.

Recently, Carling’s Power has become erratic, forcing her followers to flee in fear. Despite the danger, Rune is drawn to the ailing Queen and decides to help her find a cure for the serpent’s kiss—the vampyric disease that’s killing her.

With their desire for each other escalating just as quickly as Carling’s instability spirals out of control, the sentinel and the Queen will have to rely on each other if they have any hope of surviving the serpent’s kiss…

Read an excerpt! Or another! Or a third!

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of Animal Attraction (Animal Magnetism, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 4 Oct 11

What happens when a control freak temp and a commitment-phobe of a vet collide?  It can’t be good, right?  Especially when the temp’s time is almost up and she will be moving hundreds of miles away.  Not to worry, faithful reader, if Jill Shalvis is in charge of things, you know you’re in good hands.

Jade Bennett has worked at the Belle Haven Animal Clinic for eighteen months but is finally getting ready to end her “temporary” job.  She had planned to leave after a year but wasn’t quite ready to – and maybe she still isn’t, but she promised her family she would return to Chicago and take up the obligations there she dropped so quickly.  Jade was working late at her family’s offices and there was a break-in.  It affected her more than she thought and Jade just couldn’t make herself go back to her office.  Instead, she just started driving and eventually found herself at Belle Haven – and they were in dire need of someone to run the office side of things.

Dell Connelly never intended to keep Jade around as office manager – she was only supposed to fill in until someone more qualified was found. Little did he know that Jade would soon make herself indispensable.  Now Dell can’t help but feel like she is abandoning him – and the clinic, of course.  He can talk almost any creature into doing what he wants, but he can’t talk his way around Jade.  She’s had his number from day one. Jade and Dell have danced around each other ever since she arrived at Belle Haven.  Neither one will acknowledge the attraction, but it’s there.  Finally, just before it’s time for Jade to go back home, they can’t fight it anymore.  Isn’t that always the way it goes?

I like the way Jade works through some of her issues from the break-in with self-defense training.  And I think it’s insightful of Dell to know she needs something like that (especially since it’s based on very little information – very private, Ms. Jade is).  And when Dell finally turns Jade loose in his office to clean and organize it?  Best unspoken “I love you” ever.  :-) Letting her go with him to his mom’s is too, but the office thing?  So sweet!

Is it really suspenseful, as far as the whole “will Jade return to her old life and never look back”?  Not so much.  But this is a romance, people!  Are Dell’s issues with his mom completely explained and resolved?  No – although more information might come to light in Adam’s book.  But this isn’t a psychology treatise, either, is it, faithful reader?

I enjoyed Animal Attraction.  Even control freaks and commitment-phobes can find love.  Jade and Dell are a fun couple and manage to find hidden depths in each other – he lightens her up and she finds his more serious side.  I’m looking forward to Adam’s book. If you want a good, solid contemporary romance with characters that are fun but not silly, Jill Shalvis never disappoints.

Grade: B

Summary:

She’s tempting his basic instincts…

Sunshine, Idaho, is a quiet ranching town, a perfect place to give injured animals a refuge…or to find one. And veterinarian Dell Connelly suspects there’s a reason his clinic’s uber-efficient receptionist has taken shelter here.

Jade Bennett couldn’t be happier to escape her well-meaning but smothering family and their expectations, not to mention the big-city jungle. There’s nothing like working with injured animals, having a forlorn, grumpy stray kitten make its home under her desk…or enjoying the gorgeous views of her ruggedly sexy boss.

Jade is used to planning everything in her life, but Dell’s understanding has sparked an uncontrollable desire. And though Dell has never had time for love, Jade’s strength and sass is the kind of call no red-blooded male can resist…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of The Darkest Surrender (Lords of the Underworld, Book Eight) by Gena Showalter
Paranormal Romance published by HQN Books 27 Sept 11

What do you get when you cross a Harpy nicknamed Kaia the Disappointment, who happens to be headed for her equivalent of the Olympics (though totally unlike any Olympics imaginable), with a warrior who is host to the demon of Defeat? A wild and crazy ride!

Kaia hasn’t really been on good terms with other Harpies since a youthful mistake wreaked havoc at the Harpy Games. Her sisters (including familiar faces Gwen and Bianka) are really the only Harpies that will speak to her. Imagine Kaia’s surprise when she is invited to participate in the next upcoming Harpy Games.

Kaia has been in an ongoing flirtation with Strider, keeper of the demon of Defeat. Defeat forces Strider to accept all challenges issued and rewards him with pleasure if he wins but punishes him with pain if he loses. As you might imagine, faithful reader, Strider does not like to lose.

After convincing Strider to accompany her to the Games (and pretending to be her consort), Kaia finds out all the other Harpy teams are out to get her. After all the years of ignoring her existence, they have decided to punish her for what she did as a teenager. Everyone – including her mother – is going to gang up on her during every portion of the Games until she is dead…or wishes she were. Wow, there is a lot of violence! Harpies do not pull their punches, faithful reader. But they balance out their violence with much love of all things girly and sheer joy in living.

There is so much banter between Kaia and Strider. Even when he isn’t completely onboard with the whole consort thing, he doesn’t want anything to happen to her and he and Defeat are determined to keep her safe and help her win. The Harpies have sharp tongues and love to joke (they remind me a little of the Valkyries in Kresley Cole’s IAD series, actually) and Strider keeps up with Kaia completely.

Strider isn’t the only Lord of the Underworld attending the Harpy Games. Lysander and Sabin are on-hand to support their ladies too. It was nice to see the guys all hanging out together, cheering on their Harpies and having a little bit of downtime (but just a little). They did help a bit behind the scenes. It was nice to see them doing something besides fight the Hunters. I’ll admit I get a little tired of the back-and-forth between them and the Lords. I prefer the stories like this one where they only play a small role.

The flow of this book is better than the previous one. We spend most of our time with the main couple, but some supporting storylines moved forward, as well. Paris’ story progresses a good bit, since he was left in a cliffhanger – his book is up next! We finally got a bit of William’s backstory. I’ve always been intrigued by William…for such a noticeable presence through the last several books, he has remained quite the enigma. And Kane steps into the spotlight finally. Since he is keeper of Disaster, you know his story will be entertaining.

All in all, this is a solid entry into the Lords of the Underworld series. Kaia and Strider are a fun couple and their relationship develops quite nicely. Kaia’s issues with her mom and the Harpies are resolved and she even gets a new awesome nickname.

My grade: B

Summary:

The Lords of the Underworld return in this enthralling tale of an immortal warrior determined to win and the beautiful seductress he can’t resist.
 
Possessed by the demon of Defeat, Strider cannot lose a challenge without suffering unimaginable pain.  For him, nothing stands in the way of victory.  Until Kaia, an enchanting Harpy, tempts him to the razor’s edge of surrender.
 
Known among her people as The Disappointment, Kaia must bring home the gold in the Harpy Games or die.  Strider is a distraction she can’t afford because he as an agenda of his own – steal first prize, an ancient godly artifact, before the winner can be named.  But as the competition heats up, only one prize will matter – the love neither had thought possible…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of The Bride Wore Scarlet (Fraternitas Series, Book 2) by Liz Carlyle
Historical Romance published by Avon 26 Jul 11

With The Bride Wore Scarlet, Liz Carlyle continues her foray into the paranormal. The St. James Society is a front for an ancient brotherhood sworn to protect those with The Gift. Regency rakes with their own mysterious abilities find and protect others from persecution and exploitation. Sound like an intriguing premise for romance? Maybe not…

Geoffrey Archard, Earl of Besset, is one of the founders of the St. James Society and a member of the Fraternitas Aureae Crucis (from here on referred to as the F.A.C.). Geoff has just learned of a little girl in Belgium that possesses The Gift and is in the clutches of an evil uncle who means to use her for his own gains. The F.A.C. needs to rescue her.

Lady Anais de Rohan has just arrived in London to request membership into the F.A.C. She knows there has never been a female member in recent times, but Celtic priestesses were among the founders, most likely, so she tries to think positive. Her hopes are dashed when Lord Besset and some other members are flabbergasted by the presence of a woman in the ceremonial chamber.

Undaunted, she returns to the home of the St. James Society the next morning to discuss the matter. She is again told she will not be allowed membership, but as a friend of the F.A.C, they would like her assistance in the matter of rescuing a young child. Anais and Geoff will pose as a married couple living next door to the evil uncle and find a way to get the little girl and her mother to safety. Of course, Anais agrees.

Let me insert something here, faithful reader. I have a pet peeve about weird names whose pronunciations are never explained. My brain hangs up every time I run across such names because it wants to try different ways of saying them. Stupid brain. Onward!

The basic plot is pretty standard for romances – our hero and heroine pretend to be married in order to rescue someone/uncover a plot, etc., and fall in love along the way. You would think introducing a paranormal element like The Gift would give new life to the plot. Not so much. There isn’t enough paranormal stuff to really rev things up and not much else to try to make the plot interesting.

I have to say I struggled to finish this book. If I had not been given this book to review, I would have set it aside very early on. I didn’t connect with the characters, the whole secret society thing didn’t catch my interest, and the overall plot didn’t engage me. Also, I find it annoying that the author is almost trying to rewrite history from earlier books – the hero and heroine are children of couples from earlier novels with nary a whisper of paranormal to be found.

All in all, I’m disappointed. I can’t point to any one thing that makes this a bad book. But I’d never say it’s a good one either. Apparently this is a trilogy. I hope Ms. Carlyle returns to her straight historical roots after she wraps this up. I really enjoyed several of her earlier books.

Grade: C-

Summary:

Passion and secrets simmer behind the elegant façade of Victorian high society in the second book of Liz Carlyle’s spellbinding Fraternitas trilogy . . .

Anais de Rohan was raised from childhood to become a Guardian—a covert warrior trained in the ways of a secret militia so ancient its existence is believed mere legend. When Anais presents herself for initiation, however, her male compatriots are impressed with nothing save her hot temper and dark allure.

But when one of the St. James Society’s darkest, most enigmatic leaders challenges Anais to prove herself, she boldly accepts. Courting ruin to pose as Lord Bessett’s new bride, Anais must travel with the handsome, ruthless nobleman on a mission to save one of their own—a little girl with frightening gift—from danger.

But as intrigue swirls about them, drawing them ever closer, Anais begins to realize that their mission is hardly the only challenge she faces, for Lord Bessett is proving a temptation too hard to resist. As for Bessett himself—well, he might be a soldier sworn to the Society, but he certainly isn’t anyone’s saint . . .

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Canyons of Night (Harmony Series, Book 8; Looking Glass Trilogy, Book 3; Arcane Society, Book 12) by Jayne Castle
Paranormal Romance published by Jove 30 Aug 11

It’s time to return to Harmony – home to cities of glowing green crystal spires and renegade energy “ghosts,” both left over from an ancient mysterious alien civilization.  This time we leave the cities behind and head out to Rainshadow Island.  A haven for those looking for a more secluded, quiet lifestyle, it was also a haven for pirates and smugglers. Rainshadow has its own secrets – including a mysterious Preserve, controlled by a secretive Foundation and protected by psychic fencing.  It is also home to people with some interesting abilities (something about Harmony encourages the development of psychic talents) and some unusual creatures – specter cats and dust bunnies, for example. Who doesn’t love dust bunnies?

Charlotte Enright grew up spending summers on Rainshadow Island with her aunt.  Charlotte has recently returned to the island because she inherited Aunt Beatrix’s antique shop. Since Charlotte has her own shop in the city, it’s a pretty easy decision.  The city isn’t so far away by ferry and she always enjoyed her time on Rainshadow.  Soon after she re-locates, a familiar face arrives.

Slade Attridge briefly lived on Rainshadow Island when he was in his teens.  He and Charlotte really had only one encounter, but it was memorable – he rescued her from some bullies and gave her a quick look into the Preserve.  Soon after he left to join the FBPI (the Federal Bureau of Psi Investigation) and remained there until an accident. Slade was injured during an investigation. After learning that he might never completely recover, Slade decided he would open a private investigation firm.  First, however, he needs some time and extra money to put things into place.  When a friend mentions Rainshadow needs a new sheriff, Slade takes the job.   And brings along his assistant, a dust bunny named Rex.

Charlotte and Slade both recognize the chemistry they have together. Even his plan to leave after a few months can’t keep them apart.  Soon, though, strange occurrences and mysterious deaths make Slade realize there are things happening on Rainshadow Island that can only be a result of some powerful and dangerous Talents.  Someone is looking for something and will stop at nothing to get it.  But what is it?  Who wants it and why?  Does it have something to do with Charlotte?  Is it connected to the stirring Slade senses in the Preserve?  Could it have anything to do with the season’s abundance of zucchini bread?

Some background for those new to Harmony: Psychically gifted people left Earth looking for somewhere where they wouldn’t have to hide their abilities.  They found Harmony and began settling the planet.  Then something happened that cut them off from Earth – they were unable to get back home – and conditions on Harmony stopped the Earth-manufactured machines they brought along from working properly, so they had to find new ways to survive.  At the same time, psychic talents were becoming stronger and more widespread.  Now Harmony functions on about the same technological level we do. So, even though the book is set in the future, it doesn’t have a super futuristic feel to it.

This is the second time Jayne Ann Krentz (aka Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle) has tied stories together across genres and pen-names.  The stories written as Amanda Quick also tie to her historical series; the stories written as JAK tie to her contemporary series; the Jayne Castle book ties to her other Harmony-based stories.

I’ll admit I haven’t read either of the connected books.  *hangs head in shame*  I’ve never really gotten into the stories she writes under her other pseudonyms, but I’ve always enjoyed her Harmony series.  So I can say with authority that this book stands alone quite nicely.  There are bits of info dropped in that I’m sure would have had greater significance if I had read the connected books, but everything is explained to my satisfaction. I will say that there is a little too much of a “I’m-setting-up-my-new-series” feel in places, but not so much that it became annoying…just noticeable.

Grade: B-

Summary:

The island of Rainshadow is home to the mysterious, privately-owned woods known only as the Preserve. Now, after fifteen years away, both Charlotte Enright and her teen crush, Slade Attridge, have returned. But will their psi talents and Slade’s dust bunny companion be enough to keep them from getting drawn into the darkness at the heart of the Preserve?

No excerpt available.

Other Looking Glass series books:

Other Harmony series books:

Other Arcane Society series books:

C2’s review of Once and Again (Petal, Georgia, Book 1) by Lauren Dane
Contemporary Romance published by Samhain 30 Aug 11

In her latest book, Lauren Dane returns us to the ever-so-fun small town of Petal, Georgia.  Readers of her Chase brothers series will see lots of familiar faces, get to know some supporting characters much better, and meet some new people too.  I enjoyed the Chase books, so I’m very excited to revisit Petal.

Lily Travis grew up in Petal but didn’t come back after college.  Her family was borderline dysfunctional, and Petal bad boy Nathan Murphy broke her heart.  However, when her family crosses the line into full-on dysfunction, she has no choice but to return home.  Lily’s parents are divorcing and her father is involved with a bubble-head younger than she is.  Her mother is becoming much too dependent on pills and alcohol. And her teenage brother is running with a bad crowd, cutting school and failing his classes.  It is time for someone to step in and get a handle on things and Lily is the only one who is willing to try.

After leaving her job in Macon, Lily comes back to Petal and moves into the apartment over her parents’ garage.  She knows most of her family is a lost cause but is determined to keep her little brother moving in the right direction.  One of the first things she does is visit Chris’ school to talk to the principal and his teachers.  Wouldn’t you know one of Chris’ teachers is Nathan Murphy?  And, my goodness, didn’t he grow up nicely?

Nathan grew up in Petal (his sister married one of the Chase brothers). He knew Lily growing up because she was a friend of his younger sister. They didn’t start dating until they ran into each other in college. Then, while they were on a break (and my brain went “OMG Rachel, we were on a break!”  ”Shut up, Ross.”), she saw him kissing (or being kissed by) one of her cousins.  He didn’t explain himself, she didn’t ask, and they stopped seeing each other.  Ah, youth…

When Nathan sees Lily back in Petal, the old attraction rears its head. This time they are both older and more mature, hopefully.  But Lily doesn’t want to go down that road again. Nathan really hurt her and she doesn’t want a repeat experience.  And she really has a lot on her plate – her mom has a substance abuse problem, her dad is a self-centered nut, her sister has anger issues.  Also, he is Chris’ teacher and she doesn’t want her brother to deal with talk about her inappropriate behavior.   But…

Attraction is hard to fight – especially when only one half of the couple is fighting it.  And Nathan is determined.  He knows what he wants and knows she wants him right back, whether she’s willing to admit it or not.  Add in conspiring family and friends and you know where this ends, don’t you, faithful reader?

I really enjoyed visiting Petal again.  I like seeing how things are with all the Chases and other residents…including some Murphy siblings that might be getting their stories told eventually.  And Lily’s relationship with her brother struck me as very true – it’s a hard balance to strike when you’re trying to parent your sibling…especially when the real parent is there but ineffective…and we see that here.  I also like the way Lily dealt with all the problems her family is facing – especially with her mom and her brother’s situation – she consults professionals all along the way to find the best way to handle things.  It would have been so annoying if she had just gone in and seemed to know just how to handle everything. Once and Again isn’t a happy, fluffy book – not that it’s a big downer or anything – it takes a look at real problems and shows how real people deal with them.  And everyone is in a better place at the end than they were at the beginning…what more can you ask?

Do you need to read the Chase series before reading Once and Again? No, it stands alone quite nicely, but, you know, I think you should always read all the connected books (plus the first Chase Brothers book was FREE for Kindle when I wrote this review).  And the Chase brothers are smoking hot, just FYI.

Grade: B+

Summary:
Seven years ago, Lily Travis was only too glad to see her hometown of Petal, Georgia in her rearview mirror. Thanks to her father running off with a twenty-year-old, though, here she is, trying to pick up the pieces. First order of business: meet with her brother’s teacher in a quest to pull his grades out of a downward spiral.

Nathan Murphy is pretty much resigned to his bachelor status—until he looks up from his desk to see an all-grown-up Lily walking into his classroom. Of all the women who turned out to be totally wrong for him, she’s the only one who felt right. At least until his foolish, immature mistake drove her away.

Lily has to admit that time has been more than kind to gorgeous, sexy Nathan. Except there’s no room on her full plate for another complication. Especially with a man who broke her heart once before.

With a little help from his friends, Nathan has a plan to rekindle the flame. It isn’t long before they’re burning up the sheets. Winning her heart? That’s another matter.

Warning: Hot, sexy high school teacher in denim and boots. Strong-willed females abound. Bad words and naughtiness, too. Come on, you know you want to read it.

Read an excerpt.

Connected books:

C2’s review of The Chase (Fast Track, Book 4) by Erin McCarthy
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 5 Apr 11

With The Chase, Erin McCarthy zooms back into the world of NASCAR. This go-around longtime supporting character Evan Monroe is racing for his happily ever after, but will he cross the finish line or end up in the pits?

Evan Monroe is struggling in the current racing season – he isn’t finishing well, his sponsors are unhappy and putting pressure on him to do better – and suddenly he’s seeing a face that brings back a lot of unhappy memories.

Kendall Holbrook is one of the few female NASCAR drivers and she is having a very good season.  Her sponsors are happy, her team manager is happy, and things are looking up for her racing career.  As exciting as things are in her professional life, Kendall’s personal life is beyond dull.  She hasn’t been on a date in ages and hasn’t had a steady boyfriend for even longer.  Concentrating on her career has taken precedence over everything else.  Plus, she’s gun-shy…she still hasn’t gotten over a teenage heartbreak.

When Kendall’s best friend, Tuesday, finds out (after inviting him to meet her for a drink) Evan and Kendall dated during their late teens, she is surprised Kendall never mentioned it before. But when Tuesday tries to find out more about the relationship, Kendall gets flustered and won’t give details.  So Tuesday asks Evan and is surprised to hear that he considered the relationship a serious one until Kendall just stopped returning his calls without ever saying why.

Tuesday arranges (with a bit of threatening) for Kendall and Evan to get together to talk about what happened.  Kendall finally admits she took exception to a comment Evan made about her wanting to race and assumed he wouldn’t support her dreams.  So she dumped him.  Umm…seriously? Without any discussion at all?

I am not fond of Kendall.  She strikes me as very immature – which is excusable, sort of, at 18 but not at 28.  And I’m not sure she ever completely apologized for the breakup.  She must have because they hooked up again pretty quickly (even if it was just for “closure,” supposedly).  I get that she felt a lot of pressure and got a lot of criticism when she picked a traditionally male career.  I’m sure it’s very difficult and continued to be difficult to wrestle with people’s preconceived notions.  Using that as an excuse to push away someone who cares about you?  Nope.

Still, it doesn’t seem to stop Evan and Kendall from rekindling their relationship – the chemistry is still there and both are older and wiser, more or less.  But their lives are very entwined and yet moving in different directions.  Evan’s racing season isn’t going well – even though he does get a new sponsor – and Kendall is doing extremely well. Evan is thinking it may be time for him to stop racing and try something else and Kendall’s racing career is on the upswing.  Their managers aren’t in favor of them having a public relationship, their team owner doesn’t like the idea of them dating.  But Evan and Kendall are happier together than they ever were apart, so they decide to try.

I admit I never paid much attention to Evan in Ms. McCarthy’s previous books.  I just thought of him as the happy-go-lucky, not-too-bright smart ass brother/pal.  As it turns out, he has much more depth than I ever imagined.  Being dumped by Kendall at 19 really hurt him – he had planned to propose even – and he never really got over it.  Evan turns out to be sweeter and more self-aware than I would have ever thought.

The plot twist near the end (no spoilers here, faithful reader) is not needed and, to me, it muddies the plot.  Maybe Ms. McCarthy thought there isn’t enough conflict, but why can’t we just watch characters learn from each other and grow without craziness to spur them along?  All the steps forward the characters have managed over the course of the book are
suddenly wiped out.  I understand that it maybe helps Kendall gain some insight into her life and character, but I still find it annoying. Surely Kendall could have figured things out without that sort of jolt.

Usually this type of storyline is right up my alley.  I am left slightly disappointed with The Chase because of the characterization of Kendall and the twist near the end.  So does this book stand alone? More or less…when characters from the previous books arrive on scene, enough info is given that a new reader would probably feel comfortable. For readers of the previous book, there are nice updates for all the previous couples.  And next up for her happy ending is Kendall’s friend Tuesday.  She is an intriguing character, so I’m looking forward to her story.

Grade: C-

Summary:

When racing for the checkered flag…

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

…expect a few speed bumps.

After getting dropped by his biggest sponsor, Evan is watching his racing season go up in flames.  Now, the only replacement available is completely humiliating: a co-sponsorship for his-and-her deodorant with Kendall Holbrook – the girl who once broke his heart.  Acting like Kendall doesn’t still get him all hot and bothered is bad enough, but the biggest challenge awaits him on the track – where Evan has to decide if a second chance at love is more important than making it to the finish line…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Storm’s Heart (Elder Races, Book 2) by Thea Harrison
Paranormal Romance published by Berkley 2 Aug 11

In our introduction to Thea Harrison’s Elder Races (the most excellent Dragon Bound), we met some of the major players (Dragos! <3) and got an overview of the world. In Storm’s Heart we get a close-up view of the inner workings of the world – the politics and various relationships between the races – and meet more of the world’s inhabitants (including Vampyres).

When we first met Tricks (aka Thistle Periwinkle), she was the head of PR for Dragos’ Cuelebre Enterprises. Little did most people realize she was actually the heir to the Dark Fae throne. Tricks was in the palace the night her family was killed but managed to escape and eventually took refuge among the Wyr. Finally, though, it was time to come out of hiding and reclaim the throne. And what happens when she meets with the Dark Fae delegation? They try to kill her! So she goes into hiding – she needs a chance to regroup and plan.

Dragos and her Wyr friends are not happy with the turn of events and even less happy that Tricks (now using her real name Niniane Lorelle) didn’t contact them for help. Dragos decides she will get help, whether she wants it or not, and sends one of his Sentinels to Chicago to find Tricks and help straighten out the mess.

Tiago is a thunderbird – the only thunderbird, actually. When he is angry, storms happen. Thunder! Lightning!! Tiago is the one Dragos sends in to fight battles and win wars. He is not the diplomatic type – he gets things done. Tiago never spent all that much with Tricks (yeah, yeah…Niniane…I know…but she’ll always be Tricks to me!), but the idea of someone trying to kill her unsettles him.

Niniane is less than pleased to see Tiago. Mostly. He is hot and sexy and bad-ass, but she isn’t interested. Or maybe she is. But she shouldn’t be. But she can’t help it. I love Tricks Niniane! Eventually she sees the wisdom in letting Tiago act as bodyguard – at least until she figures out who she can trust and makes some alliances within the Dark Fae – because someone still wants her dead. Besides, Tiago isn’t leaving her unprotected no matter what she says she wants. He will keep her safe or die trying (and he is hard to kill).

In Storm’s Heart, Ms. Harrison expands the fascinating world she established in Dragon Bound. We learn more about the workings of the world and see the relationships between the Elder Races, and it makes the world deeper and richer and even more interesting. We get glimpses of the Demonkind and the Nightkind and we meet the Vampyre queen (intriguingly creepy!). There are lots of political shenanigans happening surrounding Niniane’s claim to the Dark Fae throne, yet the book never felt bogged down by all the maneuvering. There’s a lot going on but it never is confusing.

The best thing about the book is the relationship between Niniane and Tiago. Once they decide they are together, they’re together. Maybe because they have such long lives, they don’t get caught up in high-school-ish drama. They trust each other and have each other’s backs. I think that’s awesome! And so refreshing.

Of course, there are those among the Dark Fae that do not like the idea of a Wyr being mated to their queen. And there is still the question of who wants Niniane dead and why. Are you intrigued, faithful reader? You should be.

So, does this book stand alone? Yes, mostly, but you know you wanna read Dragon Bound. Right?? Right! I admit I like Dragos a bit more than Tiago (that dragonish charm, don’t you know), but I like Niniane better than Pia, so it all balances out. This is the best new paranormal series in ages. Honest!

Grade: A-

Summary:

He’s a wyr warrior, a god of storms. She’s the heir to the Dark Fae throne. But desire will bring both to their knees in this all-new Novel of the Elder Races.

During the rule of her murderous Dark Fae uncle, Thistle “Tricks” Periwinkle found sanctuary among the wyr in New York. Her ethereal beauty and sparkling personality won the hearts of the public, but after her uncle’s death, there are those who don’t want to see her ascend to the throne…

Able to wield thunder and lightning, wyr sentinel Tiago Black Eagle has ruled the skies for centuries. His massive build and thunderous power make him one of the wyr’s best weapons. And he’s sent to protect Tricks when she’s almost assassinated in Chicago.

Soon, both Tiago and Tricks will fall prey to the stormy hunger that engulfs them—a passion that will shake the very foundation of all the worlds…

Read an excerpt and another and another.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Yours to Keep (The Kolwalski Family, Book 3) by Shannon Stacey
Contemporary Romance ebook published by Carina Press 6 Jun 11

Got a hankering for a straight-up contemporary full of heart, humor, and Kowalskis? Shannon Stacey’s latest will definitely fill the bill. And you’ll never look at Post-its the same way again.

Emma Shaw is in a pickle – she made up a fiance so her grandmother wouldn’t worry about her living all alone in a big old house. Now her grandmother is coming back from Florida to New Hampshire for a month-long visit. Oops! Time to find a “real” fiance stat! But not just anyone will do, because her fake fiance is based on a real person. Her best friend’s husband’s cousin…

Sean Kowalski just finished up his time in the Army and is in New Hampshire visiting his aunt, uncle and, cousins while he decides what to do next. The last thing he expects to find knocking on his door is a chick telling him they are engaged…kind of. Best meet-cute ever! Still, Sean is understandably reluctant (and perhaps frightened) to immediately get engaged – even if it isn’t real – but, after listening to Emma’s story and talking to his cousins, he agrees to go along with the big scheme. And the fact that Sean finds Emma smokin’ hot has nothing to do with his decision. Honest!

Unfortunately, Emma’s gram immediately notices they aren’t as easy together as a long-term couple should be. But she doesn’t let on…she just waits and watches. She knows she will figure out what is going on, and why, eventually.

For the month her gram is visiting, Emma and Sean will live together – and share her bedroom (it has a couch and Emma plans to sleep there) – work together (Emma owns a landscaping business) and pretend to be happily in love and on their way to marriage. Since they have supposedly been together for a while, Emma gives Sean some notes about her – kind of a CliffsNotes guide to being her boyfriend.

”You actually come with an owner’s manual?”

Sean makes me giggle. He is unwilling to provide an owner’s manual, though. So as they go along trying to be a convincing couple, anytime Sean thinks of something that Emma needs to know or can’t say something that needs to be said, he writes it on a Post-it and sticks it on the bathroom mirror.

Of course, Sean’s family has to be in on the plan to make it convincing. Now, you know how families are, don’t you, faithful reader? Especially close-knit, silliness-prone families. So what do you think happens when Sean and Emma and Emma’s grandmother attend a family gathering? Kowalski Cook-out of Doom! Newlywed Game of Doom! So much fun! And DOOM!

When too many people know a secret, of course it will come out before it is supposed to. And pretend feelings have a way of becoming all too real. But when a relationship starts with an expiration date, can it keep going? Even after everyone knows the truth?

It would have been easy to make the plot slapstick-y – and it would still have been a fun read, most likely – but Ms. Stacey makes it real. The emotions of the characters are real, the family relationships are real, the fallout after the truth is out there is real (I teared up, I admit). And the happy ending is real…best big gesture ever! And maybe another sniffle from me.

I love the Kowalskis! This book does stand alone, but I always recommend reading the whole series. Exclusively Yours was on my Top Ten of 2010, in case you didn’t know. And I am so glad there are more Kowalski books coming next year – three of them, even! Pardon me while I SQUEE! You don’t want to fall behind, do you, faithful reader? You totally need to read the existing books now.

Grade: A

Summary:

Sean Kowalski no sooner leaves the army than he’s recruited by Emma Shaw to be her fake fiancé. Emma needs to produce a husband-to-be for her grandmother’s upcoming visit, and, though Sean doesn’t like the deception, he could use the landscaping job Emma’s offering while he decides what to do with his civilian life. And, despite his attraction to Emma, there’s no chance he’ll fall for a woman with deep roots in a town he’s not planning to call home.

Emma’s not interested in a real relationship either; not with a man whose idea of home is wherever he drops his duffel bag. No matter how amazing his “pretend” kisses are…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Demon Hunting in Dixie by Lexi George.
Paranormal Romance published by Kensington 1 May 2011

Haven’t you always wondered what would happen if an inter-dimensional warrior followed a demon to a small southern town?  Of course you have!

Normally I’m not big on trying new authors – there are already so many authors I love, it’s hard to consider adding to my never-ending list.  So I will admit that my decision to read Demon Hunting in Dixie is based on a very brief description of the book – not even the full blurb – just something about demon hunting in Alabama.  Since I live in the general vicinity, I’m intrigued.  Because, let me say, demons roaming around in Lower Alabama doesn’t seem so very far-fetched.  :-D

Addy Corwin is a florist in her hometown of Hanna, Alabama.  Her family owns the local funeral home, but the idea of working there wigs her out.  She is house-sitting for her Aunt Muddy, who is gallivanting around the world.  Addy’s life is pretty typical – she runs her shop, takes care of her dog, hangs out with her best friend, tries to stay out of trouble with her mother, and still struggles with her high school nemesis.

So when her dog runs off into a scary section of woods during their late-night run, Addy follows her, fussing all the way.  She expects to see a rabbit or a squirrel, not a creepy, black cloud thing that surrounds her.  Before Addy is completely incapacitated, she hears a rumble nearby and the creepy thing releases her and disappears.  The next thing Addy sees is a man appearing out of a glowing rectangle.  The last thing she remembers before passing out is watching the new arrival draw a flaming sword and battle the entity.  When Addy comes to, she is stretched out on her sofa.  Must have been a dream, huh?  Umm, not so much.  The tall, very handsome man with the flaming sword is in Addy’s living room (now sans sword).  Apparently, the creepy entity stabbed her before it disappeared but, Mr. Hot Guy healed her and is now watching over her.

Brand is a Dalvahni warrior.  The Dalvahni’s purpose is to hunt the djegrali – AKA demons.  Brand explains that the type of demon Addy encountered is one of the worst and that the demon marked her when it stabbed her.  It will return to finish her off and Brand intends to stay with her and protect her.  The Dalvahni do not experience emotions but, for the first time in thousands of years, Brand senses a strange internal disturbance in Addy’s presence.  And he just might like it.

Accompanying Brand on his djegrali hunt is another Dalvahni warrior – Ansgar.  While they are hunting for signs of the demon that marked Addy, Brand and Ansgar discover that Hanna might be the location of a prophecy foretelling the end of the Dalvahni.  I smell a series in the works, don’t you, faithful reader? And a small southern town could totally be a hotbed of demon activity. Totally!

The main plot of Demon Hunting in Dixie is pretty straightforward.  Girl meets boy; boy experiences emotions; they are stalked by an enemy; they eventually triumph over said enemy. However, the main plot is muddied by several secondary storylines that could have been left for another entry in the series (the storyline involving Addy’s brother, for example) or left out completely.  The main subplot concerning Ansgar and Addy’s BFF, Evie, is interesting and fit well with the main story – and is left unresolved. So, hopefully, we will see them as a lead couple eventually.

I can see a lot of potential in Demon Hunting in Dixie.  The world Ms. George is building is interesting and could be enjoyable to explore.  Addy is an entertaining character (cliché spouting aside) – a bit Stephanie Plum-ish, actually.  You know, if Steph were hunting demons with an immortal warrior and didn’t have any weird commitment issues.  And the Dalvahni are an interesting group – what could be more fun than guys who can drink all the alcohol they like and not get drunk but feed them chocolate and they get completely loopy?

My main problem with the book as a whole is that there’s too much.  Too much of everything.  Too many secondary characters, too many subplots, too many words!  As I mentioned earlier, I live in the South…I know Southerners like to talk a lot.  But mostly, other than the accent, we talk like everyone else.  This book is like an encyclopedia of old sayings/clichés/truisms/axioms – whatever you want to call them.  It’s distracting and a bit odd, and the inclusion of all those phrases makes conversations too long, which makes scenes too long and makes the book feel too long and makes the pacing feel off, somehow.

Another quibble – Ms. George is a debut author and this is a trade-size paperback.  That’s a high price tag for an unknown entity, especially in the current economic climate (and libraries probably tend to stick with known authors mostly, for the same reason).  I don’t pretend to know what kind of decision process publishers go through when determining whether a book should be released in mass market vs trade size vs e-only, but I’m guessing more people would be willing to try someone new if it isn’t a big investment…

So, do I recommend reading Demon Hunting in Dixie?  Sure, if you like your demon-hunting on the lighter side – it’s a refreshing alternative to some more angsty choices – I think you should sample it first, certainly.  Even though there are flaws and marketing missteps, I like Ms. George’s voice.  Some tighter editing, re-thinking the pricing and the series could become very popular.

Grade: C+

Summary:

A warrior, a demon, and the girl next door. . .

Looking For Trouble

Addy Corwin is a florist with an attitude. A bad attitude, or so her mama says, cause she’s not looking for a man. Mama’s wrong. Addy has looked. There’s just not much to choose from in Hannah, her small Alabama hometown. Until Brand Dalvahni shows up, a supernaturally sexy, breathtakingly well-built hunk of a warrior from–well, not from around here, that’s for sure. Mama thinks he might be European or maybe even a Yankee. Brand says he’s from another dimension.

Addy couldn’t care less where he’s from. He’s gorgeous. Serious muscles. Disturbing green eyes. Brand really gets her going. Too bad he’s a whack job. Says he’s come to rescue her from a demon. Puh-lease. But right after Brand shows up, strange things start to happen. Dogs talk and reanimated corpses stalk the quite streets of Hannah. Her mortal enemy Meredith, otherwise known as the Death Starr, breaks out in a severe and inexplicable case of butt boils. Addy might not know what’s going on, but she definitely wants a certain sexy demon hunter by her side when it all goes down . . .

Read an excerpt.

C2’s review of One Magic Moment (de Piaget, Book 14) by Lynn Kurland
Time travel romance published by Jove 3 May 11

Everyone has comfort reads – those books that you always enjoy and pull off the Keeper Shelf when you’re in the mood to read something you know is going to be good – and some of us have comfort authors, too.  For me, Lynn Kurland is a comfort author – lots of authors write romance novels but Ms. Kurland writes romantic novels.   So if she has a new book, I know odds are practically 100% that I will enjoy it.  I mean, how can you go wrong with knights, castles, sword fights, and cell phones?

Now, if you’ve never read one of Ms. Kurland’s books, you may be saying “Hold up!  Cell phones??  One of these things is not like the others, C.”  Calm yourself, faithful reader.  Most of Ms. Kurland’s books have a time travel element so those things do go together, I swear.  And she doesn’t just drop time travel into her books to get her characters where they need to be for the story – the time travel and fall out connected to moving through centuries not their own and how the characters deal with it all are an important part of the story too.  So there isn’t a lot of “Oh look!  Here I am in a century with no indoor plumbing, no real medical care and no chocolate – wheeeeeeeeeee!  I fit in perfectly!  I think I’ll stay forever and be blissfully happy!” Because, for crying out loud, that so would not be the reaction most people have.  Jeez.

Onward!

John de Piaget recently purchased a garage in a small village.  He enjoys working on his own cars and has someone else to work on everyone else’s.   It’s a good investment and should allow him to live quietly, as is his preference.  The last thing John expects is to meet (and be instantly attracted to) a lovely woman who, apparently, is struck dumb at the sight of him.  Still, he has no interest in starting up a relationship with anyone…he has too many secrets.

Tess Alexander is a scholar – her specialty is medieval political thought – and has recently been given a castle.  The former owner decided to retire to France and wanted to leave it in good, appreciative hands. Tess has events there – dinners, re-enactments and whatnot – and still gives the occasional lecture at Cambridge.  At the beginning of One Magic Moment, Tess is in a bad place.  She is dealing with the loss of her sister Pippa – whose story you can read in One Enchanted Evening – and struggling to wrap her brain around the idea that her sister is now living in the medieval version of the very same castle Tess now runs in the 21st century.  So imagine her reaction when she takes her car to the local garage and comes face to face with a man who looks exactly like her 13th century brother-in-law.  And certainly, no matter how attracted she is, Tess already knows how it feels to lose a loved one to another century, so she isn’t interested in a relationship with John either.

Fate, however, has other plans.  Tess and John are thrown together again and again.  And you can’t fight Fate, right?  But both have secrets and neither wants to start the discussion that would reveal those secrets…so Fate (with a little help) gives them a push.  Literally. And Tess and John find themselves in the 13th century, being stalked by an unseen enemy.  Of course, John knows people and knows how things work in the 1200s, so they are able to find their way to the castle of his brother Nicholas (love him!) and the awkward Secrets Discussion happens, finally.

Seeing John in his own time and surrounded by family, Tess cannot imagine that he would ever want to return with her to the 21st century. Even though he says he wants to.  But John sets out to convince her his feelings are real and watching a medieval lord start up the determined woo-age is nothing but fun.  He is so sweet and clueless.  And Nicholas is such a determined chaperon – and annoyance to his younger brother, which is the main goal.

Eventually most of the family gathers together because John’s grandmother is ill.  It is always a joy to see previous couples pop up – so much love and so many children!  But Fate isn’t finished with them yet and their enemy finally makes his move.  Will they get their happy ending?  Oh, faithful reader, would I even be talking about it if they didn’t?

Admittedly, the villain of the piece doesn’t get a lot of page time. And really that part of the plot is mostly manufactured to get them back in time.  It is resolved quickly with a little swordplay.  And it does explain some things that happen earlier in the book.  Tess is often sad, but it is understandable to the reader why so it isn’t too annoying.

So, does this book stand alone?  No.  But you don’t have to read all of the series to be up to speed.  I would suggest reading Nicholas and Jennifer’s book and Montgomery and Pippa’s book first – especially Montgomery and Pippa’s.  Also, if you are looking for a book with sexytimes on every third page, this is not the book for you. However, if you are looking for a sweet, romantic read with medieval folks who know a bit more about the future than they strictly should (and with a lot of sword fights), this series is definitely for you.

Lynn Kurland has a distinctive voice.  Her books are filled with whimsy and gentle humor and have their own touch of stardust.  Her books don’t work for everyone, but if you are at all on the fence, I definitely recommend trying one.  She might become a comfort read for you too.

Grade: A-

Summary:

THERE’S NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT…

Tess Alexander has it all: family within reach, work she loves, and the chance to live in a perfectly restored medieval castle.  But then a trip to the village brings her face-to-face with the owner of the local garage, who looks a great deal like the man who married her sister…eight hundred years in the past.  She’s determined to remain objective about magic and destiny, yet she can’t help but wonder about that mysterious, sword-wielding mechanic…

IF YOU’RE RUNNING FROM THE PAST.

As far as John de Piaget is concerned, he has no past; it’s safer that way.  The last thing he needs is the nosy medieval studies scholar from the nearby castle dredging up ancient history – his ancient history.  But from the moment he lays eyes on Tess, John can’t help but wonder how he ever took a decent breath without her…or how he’s going to protect her from the treachery that threatens both their futures.

Sadly there is no excerpt available. O_o

Closely connected books:

Other directly connected books:

Other loosely connected books:

The rest of the series:

For reading order info, click here.

C2’s review of The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance published by Grand Central 1 April 11

Jill Shalvis’s The Sweetest Thing takes us back to the seaside town of Lucky Harbor to visit with Phoebe Traeger’s daughters.  This time Tara, the oldest daughter, is on deck for her happily ever after…but will it be with her first love – local bad boy Ford Walker – or with her racecar driver ex-husband who just showed up in town?

Tara Daniels life has changed a lot in a few years.  She used to be the wife of a celebrity with money and social power.  Now the money and power are long gone, and she and her sisters are struggling to get a business off the ground.  And Tara does not need distractions…but how do you ignore a large, gorgeous, flirty male (one you’ve already seen naked)?

Ford Walker is a professional sailor – as in sailboat racing – a former Olympian, even.  When he isn’t off somewhere exotic winning all sorts of competitions, he lives in Lucky Harbor and helps his best friend, Jax, run his bar.  Lately, though, Ford has been feeling less…something.  Or something is missing and he can’t quite figure out what it is.  Until he does figure out what’s going on – well, pestering Tara is always entertaining.

As tempted as Tara is, taking Ford up on his flirtatious offers isn’t something she can do.  The last time she and Ford got together, everything ended badly – as in teenage, unwed pregnancy – and Tara isn’t willing to go through that again.  And nothing about the grown-up Ford’s life convinces her a relationship would be anything but temporary.  Tara doesn’t think Ford is willing to work for something like that and will walk away when things get difficult or when he gets bored, whichever comes first.

The sisters are working to get their inn ready to open and still have lots of things to take care of before it is ready for the public.  There is a lot riding on having a successful business, so the last thing Tara needs is another distraction…so, of course, her ex-husband shows up, determined to get back together.  Logan is famous, he’s rich, he’s handsome and charming. Ford is jealous and annoyed.  And Tara does not want to deal with two men competing for her attention…she’s already stressed out!

What could possibly raise Tara’s stress level even higher?  The arrival of the daughter she gave up for adoption years before.  Apparently, Phoebe left Mia some money in her will.  Mia and her dad were able to track down Tara and Ford, and Mia applied for a summer job at the inn. Surprise!

Even though it seems like all the things going on would distract from the romance in the book, it really doesn’t.  Sure, Logan’s around, but he’s never a real competitor…he’s just a good way to get Ford to focus on what he wants.  And having Mia turn up makes Ford and Tara deal with the issues left over from when they were teenagers – issues that are standing in the way of them getting back together and staying together.  Very smart plot weaving, says me.

That doesn’t mean the road is completely smooth.  Tara and Ford both have others issues they need to deal with – internal issues everyone has to address at some point – what is really important, what makes them happy, etc.  What happens if everything doesn’t mesh and they still can’t find a way to be together and happy?  Ah, faithful reader, it’s a romance.  Of course they end up happy and together!

Before I started reading The Sweetest Thing, I wasn’t sure…  In the first book of the series, Tara is not the most likable character – and she stays her sometimes bitchy, anal self – but it makes more sense and we see more sides to her.  Ford is hot!  And not an immature womanizer – even if he is a pro athlete of sorts – he is just unsettled and not sure what to do next. He doesn’t start out as a frat boy caricature, but he does mature and grow over the course of the book.  The scenes with Ford and Mia are so sweet and his suspicions about her boyfriend are funny.

Does this book stand alone?  Yes.  But the first book is very good and you get more background about Phoebe, so why not start there?  Did it make me anxious for the next book?  Oh, gosh, yes – I’ve been intrigued by the baby sister and the sheriff since the beginning (book coming soon – yay!).

If you’re looking for a good straight up contemporary romance with sweetness and heat and humor, look no further…Jill Shalvis always delivers.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Two Men Are One Too Many . . .

Tara has a thousand good reasons not to return to the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington. Yet with her life doing a major crash-and-burn, anywhere away from her unfulfilled dreams and sexy ex-husband will do. As Tara helps her two sisters get their newly renovated inn up and running, she finally has a chance to get things under control and come up with a new plan for her life.

But a certain tanned, green-eyed sailor has his own ideas, such as keeping Tara hot, bothered . . . and in his bed. And when her ex wants Tara back, three is a crowd she can’t control-especially when her deepest secret reappears out of the blue. Now Tara must confront her past and discover what she really wants. If she’s lucky, she might just find that everything her heart desires is right here in Lucky Harbor.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Just Like Heaven (Smythe-Smith, Book 1) by Julia Quinn
Historical Romance published by Avon 31 May 11

The Smythe-Smiths are here!  The Smythe-Smiths are here!

Who are the Smythe-Smiths?  Ask any Julia Quinn fan and they will tell you – the Smythe-Smiths host an annual musicale.  An infamous musicale. Why infamous?  Because *whispers* the Smythe-Smiths are not particularly musical.  Readers of Ms. Quinn’s books have often attended the musicale, but the Smythe-Smiths remained a bit of a mystery.  Finally, we get to meet them and, maybe, find out what in the world they are thinking with the whole musicale thing.

Honoria Smythe-Smith is a violinist in the Smythe-Smith quartet. Girls in the family are expected to be part of the quartet after they make their debut in society.  The only escape is marriage.  Some of the Smythe-Smiths really have no idea the damage they do to the ears of the ton during their annual musicale.  Others, like Honoria, are very aware but continue to do their familial duty.  Honoria even manages to do it with a smile on her face, because she loves her family and enjoys the time she spends with her cousins (even if the rehearsals really don’t help).

Honoria’s brother, Daniel, left England under a cloud of censure after wounding another peer in a duel.  Since he knew he wouldn’t be around to look after Honoria, Daniel asked his best friend, Marcus, to watch over her.  Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris, grew up very quietly with his stern father.  His life changed drastically when he went away to school and met the outgoing Daniel Smythe-Smith.  Marcus frequently went home with Daniel and was quickly absorbed into the loud, fun-loving Smythe-Smith family.  Marcus met Honoria, the youngest of the family, on his first visit – she was seven and he was twelve.  Oh, faithful reader, I do enjoy stories where the hero and heroine have known each other since childhood.  It lends an extra sweetness, says me.

When Honoria and some Smythe-Smith cousins are visiting the country – well, Cambridge, which isn’t so country – Honoria runs into Marcus (his family estate is nearby).  Since one of the reasons Honoria and the other young ladies are visiting is to meet eligible young men, her hostess insists that Marcus be invited to the house party she is planning.  Honoria is reluctant – she knows Marcus will hate it – but agrees to send him a personal invitation.  Best invitation ever!

…  I beg of you, do not accept.  You shall be miserable, and then I shall be miserable, fretting over your misery.

With affection, et cetera & et cetera,
Honoria

A few days later, Marcus runs across Honoria in the woods near his property line.  She is plotting – she plans to twist her ankle (faker!) in order to get and keep the attention of one of the young men attending the house party…one Mister Gregory Bridgerton.  When Marcus finds her, she is digging a foot-sized hole.  When Honoria explains her plan to him, even Marcus (who over the years has quietly and without her knowledge discouraged unacceptable young and not-so-young men from pursuing Honoria) cannot find any real fault with Gregory.

Still, plans don’t always work out as they are meant to.  Instead of Honoria have a fake sprained ankle when Gregory is around to rescue her, Marcus really does sprain his ankle. Honoria has to rescue him…or at least hurry back to the house and send word to his staff so someone can assist him.  And, of course, there is an epic downpour while he is waiting for help. Poor Marcus! He catches a horrible cold and loses a favorite pair of boots because his ankle is so swollen one boot has to be cut off.

Before returning to London, Honoria visits Marcus to be sure he is on the mend and all seems well – or as well as a sniffly, limping earl can seem.  However, just after returning to her mother’s house, Honoria receives a message from Marcus’s housekeeper – he has taken a turn for the worse and she is worried.  Since Marcus has no family, Mrs. Wetherby didn’t know of anyone else to contact.  Of course, Honoria and her mother race back to the country to see what has happened.  They find a very sick young man.  Marcus is out of his head with fever and no one knows what happened.  Finally, they find the problem and Honoria’s mother knows what to do – or at least what to try – while they are waiting for the doctor to arrive. Yikes! Poor Marcus. Such unpleasantness.

As Marcus’s condition improves, he and Honoria get to know each other as adults and grow closer.  But just as Honoria and her mother are getting ready to return to London, Honoria finds a letter from Daniel to Marcus thanking him for looking after her and getting rid of some icky suitors.  Honoria decides that Marcus doesn’t really care about her, after all, and is just doing Daniel a favor by being nice.

Will Honoria hook Gregory Bridgerton?  Will Marcus follow Honoria back to London and win her heart?  Will any eardrums rupture during the musicale?  Don’t you want to find out, faithful reader?  Of course you do!

If you are already a fan of Ms. Quinn, you will enjoy Just Like Heaven. If you have never tried one of her books (OMG, do you live under a rock?!) but enjoy light Regencies with banter and heart, give Just Like Heaven a try. Does this book stand alone?  Yes, although the Bridgerton series is tons of fun and there are several familiar faces in this book…there’s even a slight connection to the more recent Bevelstoke series.  Why not read them all?  :-)

Grade: B+

Summary:

Honoria Smythe-Smith is:

A) a really bad violinist
B) still miffed at being nicknamed “Bug” as a child
C) not in love with her older brother’s best friend
D) all of the above

Marcus Holroyd is:

A) the Earl of Chatteris
B) regrettably prone to sprained ankles
C) not in love with his best friend’s younger sister
D) all of the above

Together they:

A) eat quite a bit of chocolate cake
B) survive a deadly fever and the world’s worst musical performance
C) fall quite desperately in love
It’s Julia Quinn at her best, so you know the answer is . . .
D) all of the above

Read an excerpt.

Connected books:

C2’s review of The Darkest Secret (Lords of the Underworld, Book 7) by Gena Showalter
Paranormal Romance published by HQN 29 March 11

Gena Showalter’s Lords of the Underworld series has a very interesting basis, I’ve always thought.  In her world, Pandora’s Box held demons and when the demons were released, rather than all flying free to fill the world with misery, etc., some were caught and housed inside the warriors that were supposed to keep the box safe and intact.  After thousands of years, the warriors and demons have learned to deal with each other relatively well…most of the time.  A very good thing, since it turns out the warriors cannot survive if their demon is removed.

Amun is the Keeper of Secrets.  His demon absorbs the darkest, deepest thoughts of those around him.  And once those secrets are in his head, he has no way to be rid of them.  Amun chooses not to speak aloud because, once the secrets start pouring out, he is afraid he will not be able to stop.  Instead, he uses sign language to communicate with the other Lords.

Haidee is a Hunter – a group dedicated to eliminating the Lords of the Underworld.  She is brought to the Lords’ fortress after being captured by Strider, Keeper of Defeat.  Strider thinks they will be able to get all sorts of useful information about the Hunters from her…one way or another.  What Strider doesn’t realize is that Haidee has a secret.

Amun and some others have just returned from a mission to Hell – literally (in The Darkest Lie).  This time he absorbs not only secrets but actual demon minions and they are slowly driving him insane.  Amun absorbs so much evil it seeps from him and affects those around him – they crave things they would never want and are tempted to do things they would never normally do.  He is under guard until it is clear he will not harm himself or others.  During his suffering, Amun internally calls out for help.  Haidee has been locked in the room next to his and hears his mental call…first in a nightmare and then awake.

When Haidee hears a familiar voice where she expects only enemies – the horribly injured person next door looks and sounds like her boyfriend, Micah (a man she has dreamt of all her life, even though they only met a few months before) – she is determined to get them both out of the Lords’ fortress safely.  When Amun realizes she is a Hunter and she thinks he is someone else, he plays along so he can keep her safe.  Of course, she quickly finds out the truth – that he is one of the creatures she is determined to kill…even if that option isn’t as attractive as it should be.

Only with Haidee is Amun lucid and able to keep the demons inside him subdued.  Since she is a sworn enemy, the Lords are determined to find another way to save him.  The only option they can find is that Amun must return the demons to Hell.  And the only way he can manage is if Haidee goes with him.  While they are on their quest, Amun is determined to find out exactly who and what Haidee is…why she affects him the way she does…and he may have to do it the hard way – by talking – because his demon isn’t particularly cooperative when it comes to Haidee’s secrets.

During their travels through the realms of hell (creepy, creepy realms!), they do get to know each other.  And their attraction increases – even though Haidee is fighting it.  She tells Amun she doesn’t want to start a relationship with him until she breaks up with her boyfriend…and cell reception in hell is not so good, faithful reader.  I have to say, Haidee’s insistence on the whole break-up-first issue is annoying.  She already knows she’s only attracted to Micah because she thought he’s the man she’s been dreaming of for so long.  And they had barely even dated!  The only thing they had in common is that both were Hunters.

Eventually (almost too late) all Haidee’s secrets are revealed to Amun – why her skin is so cool to touch, why she has lived many lifetimes, why demon minions flee from her.  Don’t you want to know what she is? How she can do all sorts of things a normal human Hunter shouldn’t be able to do?  Of course you do!

The structure of this book is different from earlier books in the series.  The Darkest Secret spends a lot of time with Strider and some of the other Lords in a not-very-connected subplot.  I enjoyed the subplot sections but, because the tone is so different from the main plot, the transitions are jarring.  I’m sure it is to expand the world of the series and to set up Strider’s book (coming up next), but the two plots didn’t blend as seamlessly as they could have.

Is this book for you?  If you have enjoyed the series so far, yes.  This isn’t my favorite of the series, but it held my interest.  Does it stand alone?  No.  I always recommend starting a series at the beginning, but you really need to here – if nothing else, read the previous book, since Amun’s story really starts there.

Grade: C

Summary:

Keeper of the demon of Secrets, Amun can manipulate the darkest thoughts of anyone nearby. But when the immortal warrior is chained and isolated to protect those he loves, death is his only hope of release—until he meets Haidee, a fellow prisoner whose beauty and hidden vulnerability draw him into a reckless test of his loyalty….

Haidee is a demon-assassin, raised to despise Amun’s kind. Yet how can she hate the man whose touch sets her aflame? But to save him, she must give herself body and soul…and face the wrath of a powerful adversary sworn to destroy her.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Vampire in Atlantis (Warriors of Poseidon, Book 7) by Alyssa Day
Paranormal Romance published by Berkley 6 June 11

Daniel is an ancient, powerful vampire – the Primator of the Primus (the vampire’s third house of Congress) even.  His grip on sanity isn’t quite as good as it should be and nothing seems worth hanging around for, anyway, so,  after existing for so long, Daniel has decided it is time to walk into the sunlight.  Imagine his surprise when, a few seconds after he sees the sun for the first time in millennia – and collapses amidst the heat and pain – he opens his eyes and sees a face he never thought to see again in this lifetime.  The face of his first and only love, Serai, Princess of Atlantis.

Serai is one of a handful of Atlantean maidens that have been held in stasis for thousands of years.  They were intended to be brides for future kings of Atlantis.  However, somewhere along the way the people in charge of taking care of them lost the knowledge that would let the maidens out of stasis.  And recently there have been fluctuations in the power to the stasis pods.  The power comes from one of the gems missing from Poseidon’s (yup, that Poseidon) trident.  Unless the Emperor (all the gems have names) – a large amethyst – is found, all the maidens could be lost forever.

When Serai unexpectedly returns to consciousness inside her stasis pod, she can feel the fluctuations in the Emperor’s power and knows that she and the other maidens are in danger. Somehow, she manages to break free. Now, as you might imagine, Serai is not all that happy with Atlanteans in general – being put on ice to marry whoever picks you is kind of icky and they weren’t supposed to be in stasis for so long…have they been forgotten or is it just that no one cares about them any more? – so when guards start rushing toward her, she uses her magic to knock them unconscious and runs away. And almost trips over a vampire. Imagine her surprise when it turns out that this vampire not only knows her, he is her long-lost love, Daniel. Holy star-crossed lovers, faithful reader! Each one thought the other was lost to them forever and then they are thrust together to save the world. So fun!

Daniel and Sarai trace the Emperor to Arizona and run into some familiar faces – Quinn and her band of rebels. The rebels have traced some anti-human funding to a local banker but have no proof that he is working with vampires…so far. What are the odds that Daniel and Sarai’s quest for the Emperor is connected to Quinn’s and the rebels’ search for the proof of the banker’s crimes? Very, very good.

Yes, the set-up is elaborate, but a series has to expand or it will smother, and this book puts some new characters into play. Will they be good or bad? Only time will tell. In the meantime, we get more insight into some characters that will soon have their stories told (hello Quinn and Alaric! WOOT!) and hints at some others I hope we will see more of soon (Jack!).

The secondary characters don’t overtake the main couple, though. Daniel and Serai have to battle evil vampires, precocious spirits and more to find the Emperor and there is no guarantee that anyone will be able to control it once it’s found. Also, there is the problem of blood exchanges between a vampire and an Atlantean – there can be serious repercussions.

There isn’t an easy way to summarize everything that happens (obviously), so I will give my impressions. At first I was afraid I wouldn’t like Serai, but she thawed out (heh) pretty quickly – she is not the kind of princess that sits around waiting for someone to rescue her. And I’ve always been intrigued by Daniel of the many names – who knew he would turn out to be so sweet and have such a steadfast heart?

Does this book stand alone? No (I’ll admit I had totally forgotten about the maidens in stasis). You really need to read Conlan and Riley’s book and Justice and Keely’s book, at the very least. It is such a good series – filled with kick-ass warriors and women who totally hold their own – why not read it all?

Grade: B-

Summary:
The most unexpected of all allies to Poseidon’s warriors has proven to be the fiercest—Daniel, a vampire and Night Guild mage. But even the strongest alliance can be destroyed when an 11,000 year-old desire is reborn…
A vampire’s oath, a maiden’s quest…
Daniel, vampire and ally of the Warriors of Poseidon, has fought on the side of humanity—even against his fellow creatures of the night—for more than 11,000 years.  But the crushing weight of futility and the reality of always being starkly, utterly alone has forced him to finally give into despair. He took the first step into the sunlight that would destroy him—and instead walked into Atlantis.
And the blackest of magic that could consume them both…
Eleven thousand years ago, Serai was one of a group who agreed to be placed into magical stasis to ensure the future of the Atlantean race. When a dark sorceress steals the gemstone that protects her sleeping sisters, she awakens to a vastly changed world—and the one man she could never, ever forget. And with an ancient evil tracking their every step, the long-lost lovers must battle both the darkest of magic and the treacheries of their own hearts.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Heart of Atlantis – February 2012

C2’s review of Dragon Bound (Elder Races, Book 1) by Thea Harrison
Paranormal Romance released by Berkley 3 May 11

Oh, faithful reader, is there a better feeling in the world than finding a new-to-you author with an awesome series starter? I say NO! And that is exactly what I found in Thea Harrison’s Dragon Bound.

In the world Ms. Harrison introduces us to in Dragon Bound, we find that humans live side by side with, and are aware of, the Elder Races – shape-shifters of all sorts (the Wyr), the Fae (light and dark courts, of course), elves and countless others. There are those who insist that such creatures don’t exist, but every world has its crazies.

Pia Giovanni is a half-Wyr. She has done her best to live under the radar of other wyrkind and just wants to live her life and be left alone. And she has mostly managed to do just that until her ex-boyfriend blackmails her into stealing something…something from one of the most dangerous creatures in existence.

Dragos Ceulebre is the leader of the Wyr. He is a fearsome, powerful creature – whether in human form or in his other form. Dragos, as you might have guessed, is a dragon. And dragons are very, very protective of their hoards, so when he learns that someone has managed not only to find his stash but has actually stolen from him? He. Is. Not. Happy.

Still, when he learns what was taken from him and reads the note left by the thief, Dragos is intrigued and determined to find the thief – both to see how his hoard was found and why that particular object was stolen. Dragos manages to connect with Pia via a dream and tracks her down after he “sees” where she is.

And we’re off, faithful reader! Through battles and imprisonment, rescues and escapes – the world Ms. Harrison is building gets more and more interesting. We meet various members of the Elder Races and get to know a bit about the politics and relationships involved.

And all along the way we have a fabulous romance between Pia – who does her best to not be completely bowled over by this amazing creature she’s with – and Dragos – who does his best to keep his alpha tendencies (because, honestly, what could be more alpha than a dragon?!) under control as he learns how to be in a relationship with a modern woman.

I know I haven’t given much of a summary of the happenings (this isn’t a book report, people!). All I can say is Dragon Bound was one big smile from beginning to end. If you only try one new series this year, try this one. You won’t be sorry!

Grade: A

Summary:
Half-human and half-wyr, Pia Giovanni spent her life keeping a low profile among the wyrkind and avoiding the continuing conflict between them and their Dark Fae enemies. But after being blackmailed into stealing a coin from the hoard of a dragon, Pia finds herself targeted by one of the most powerful–and passionate—of the Elder Races.

As the most feared and respected of the wyrkind, Dragos Cuelebre cannot believe someone had the audacity to steal from him, much less succeed. And when he catches the thief, Dragos spares her life, claiming her as his own to further explore the desire they’ve ignited in one another.

Read an excerpt or two or three.

Other books in the series (COMING SOON):

C2’s review of Guarding a Notorious Lady (Devine Series, Book 2) by Olivia Parker
Historical Romance published by Avon 31 May 11

What happens when a self-proclaimed matchmaker is thrown into close contact with the object of her affection? Especially if that object is her older brother’s best friend and has never shown any interest in her. Lady Rosalind is about to find out.

Lady Rosalind Devine is highly sought after by the gentlemen of the ton. However, year after year she eludes them. Still, just because she hasn’t made a love match for herself doesn’t mean she isn’t interested in helping others find their perfect match. There is little she enjoys more than helping couples find true love and happily ever after.

The gentlemen pursuing her are not so happy. The matter of who will catch the lovely Lady Rosalind and when has become the subject of many bets placed in betting books around London. So much so that her brother Gabriel is concerned that the would-be swains might resort to desperate measures – not that he is unable to control love-sick dandies. But Gabriel is getting ready to take a trip to the Continent – his wedding trip – and he decides reinforcements must be called in to make sure Rosalind is protected while he is away.

Nicholas Kincaid lives near the Devines’ country estate. When he comes to London after inheriting a title from a distant relative (he is now the Marquess of Winterbourne), Gabriel talks him into looking after Rosalind during the Season…and insists she not know he is her guardian. Of course, neither of them knows Rosalind has loved Nicholas from afar for ages.

I’ll admit the beginning of the book was a little silly and I was afraid that Rosalind was going to be one of those annoying, immature heroines. But she ended up having more depth than I originally expected. And Nicholas is a very nice hero – growly, trying his best to do a favor for a friend while fighting a losing battle against his growing attraction to the very person he is supposed to be protecting.

The sub-plot (I use the term loosely) is mostly a waste of time. The relationship between Rosalind and Nicholas is entertaining and doesn’t need the silliness or the distraction. Plus the character that is used is kind of creepy and borders on stalkerish.

So, faithful reader, if you’re in the mood for a light, entertaining read with a fun relationship between the lead couple and don’t mind that there isn’t a lot of unneeded plot to get in the way, check out Guarding a Notorious Lady. I enjoy Ms. Parker’s voice and her heroes and heroines are always entertaining.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Exquisite trouble . . .

A woman of pristine breeding, Lady Rosalind Devine is also an unrepentant meddler and snoop— which is why her brother refuses to leave her to her own devices while on his wedding trip. But Rosalind will not make things easy for any unseen, unwanted “nursemaid”—and vows to use her considerable wiles to expose her mystery guardian.

Nicholas Kincaid, the Marquess of Winterbourne, agreed to secretly guard his friend’s spoiled, stubborn sister, though her infuriating penchant for mischief is causing him to question his decision. Though bound by the rules of society—and friendship— Rosalind’s spirit and sensuality have sparked a fierce desire in Nicholas to play a very different role in her life, one that entails passion, ecstasy . . . and unavoidable scandal.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of Kiss of Snow (Psy/Changeling Series, Book 10) by Nalini Singh
Paranormal Romance published by Berkley 31 May 11

Faithful reader, you know how sometimes in long series there’s that one couple you want to get together – the one that so obviously must be together and you wait and wait…and then, when they finally do get their story, it’s a let-down?  That SO did not happen here!  Yay!!

Hawke is the alpha of the SnowDancer wolves.  He has been in charge since he was a teenager and the traumatic circumstances that put him there have shaped his personality.  He is intense and focused and his wolf is very near the surface at all times.  Hawke’s wolf recognized his mate when he was a child, however she died very young.  Since wolves only mate once, Hawke grew up with the knowledge that there would always be a piece of his heart missing.

From the moment they met, Sienna Lauren has disturbed Hawke on every level.  She is too young and not only isn’t she Pack, she is Psy.  The Psy were responsible for the death of Hawke’s father and the horrible events that led him to becoming alpha.  Still, there is something about her that draws him, even though he knows he will never share the mate-bond with anyone – and the connection isn’t one-sided.  Recently, Hawke’s wolf has decided that Sienna is an adult and fair prey.  And Hawke is having a hard time convincing his wolf and himself that isn’t a good idea.

Sienna and her family came to live with the SnowDancer wolves after they defected from the PsyNet.  As far as most Psy know, they are all dead. Sienna, especially, knows she must stay hidden.  She is an X Psy – a mysterious and deadly Psy designation.  She was taken from her family at a very young age and trained as an assassin/spy.

Ever since Sienna has been with SnowDancer, she has been drawn to Hawke but she senses the distance he tries to maintain between them.  Still, he has allowed her to train with the other novice soldiers – as long as she doesn’t use her Psy abilities against anyone in the Pack.  Since she isn’t a wolf, she is less aware of his Alpha-ness and is more defiant than the other young soldiers – and neither man nor wolf appreciate that.

Lately, Sienna Psy abilities have been less stable.  Theory says X Psy are less stable to start with – most die young.  Whether this is because of the dangerous nature of the X designation, the dangerous situations they often are placed in or just because that much power burns quick and fast is still part of the mystery surrounding the X.  Hawke and her uncle, Judd (have you read Judd’s book? because you should), are both concerned about whether Sienna will be able to maintain her control over her abilities or if those abilities will get away from her and cause untold damage.  But when a Psy plot is uncovered that endangers all of SnowDancer and DarkRiver, every soldier is needed and Sienna’s special abilities could prove invaluable in the fight.

Oh faithful reader, I don’t want to delve too much deeper into the plot. You just need to read the book and savor it.  With each new addition to the series, the Psy/Changling world gets richer and deeper and more complex.  We catch up with lots of old friends and get hints of new characters (I am very intrigued by the falcons) and also get glimpses of a time before the PsyNet became the vast, frightening entity it is. And watching Hawke and Sienna dance around each other – unable to stay away while knowing things will probably go horribly wrong – is delicious and sweet and smart and hot.

“She tried to prepare herself for the next kiss…but of course, there was no way to prepare for Hawke.”  Kiss of Snow, page 360

Does this book stand alone?  It probably could but, really, you should read the whole series – all the cool kids are doing it.  Don’t you want to be one of the cool kids?  Is it worth the hardcover price? I say yes! What are you waiting for?  Go read and enjoy!

Grade: A+

Summary:

Since the moment of her defection from the PsyNet and into the SnowDancer wolf pack, Sienna Lauren has had one weakness. Hawke. Alpha and dangerous, he compels her to madness.
Hawke is used to walking alone, having lost the woman who would’ve been his mate long ago. But Sienna fascinates the primal heart of him, even as he tells himself she is far too young to handle the wild fury of the wolf.
Then Sienna changes the rules and suddenly, there is no more distance, only the most intimate of battles between two people who were never meant to meet. Yet as they strip away each other’s secrets in a storm of raw emotion, they must also ready themselves for a far more vicious fight…
A deadly enemy is out to destroy SnowDancer, striking at everything they hold dear, but it is Sienna’s darkest secret that may yet savage the pack that is her home…and the alpha who is its heartbeat…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series: