Sandy M’s review of Five Ways ‘Til Sunday (Delta Heat, Book 1) by Delilah Devlin
Contemporary Erotic Romance short story ebook published by Samhain 22 Nov 11

I haven’t had such a dilemma like this with a book in quite a while. I like the characters. I like the story. Then I didn’t care for the story. Then I’d like it again, but I’d hit another snag several pages later. Mostly, I just don’t see this hero allowing such things to happen, even if his BFFs are involved.

Jackson and Marti have a very active sex life – adventurous, sexy, and fun. In fact, the opening scene is quite fun, role playing behind Marti’s locked office door. I enjoyed that a lot. Jackson is one of those men who can win a woman over every which way, so when Marti keeps rejecting his love for her and his proposals of marriage, he tells her he’ll do anything to make her feel comfortable saying yes.

For Marti, it’s more that she’s not up to his standards – no education, tattoos, blue-streaked hair, piercings, and she manages a bar for heaven’s sake. Officer Jackson Teague deserves more than that. Of course, as far as he’s concerned, it’s all in her mind. He loves all of things about her. But when Marti fudges and tells him she has a bucket list of things to try before she marries, Jackson calls her bluff and demands to see her list.

At first he’s a little taken aback at what he reads, but with the help of his five best friends on the force with him, Jackson is determined to show Marti she has no reason to fear commitment from either one of them. So they set up the situations she wants to experience – a hooker working a street corner, making love in a cop car, and other such scenarios, each a tad more erotic than the last. And while these scenes are very erotic, ménages five ways and then some to help Marti give Jackson the answer he wants, this is where my problem with all of it comes about.

These buddies may be Jackson’s best friends, two of them since high school, but a man who loves a woman as much as Jackson loves Marti (and as much as she loves him but just won’t admit it yet), I just can’t see him letting any man put his hands and mouth on her and his cock inside her. Jackson even at one point says no penetration, but the next thing you know, all kinds of penetration are going on. And when Marti discovers Jackson sees beyond her reason for concocting the list in the first place, all of the shenanigans should have ended, but it’s Jackson himself who insists they’re nowhere near done with her yearnings. Yes, in the end Marti wakes up after her fantasies are realized; the men are still best friends despite their wild and wicked weekend, so all’s well that ends well. The journey getting there just doesn’t work for me as well as it does for them. I do love the depiction of Jackson on this cover, though. Whew-boy, just like he’s described in the book.

Despite all of this, however, I like these characters, including Jackson’s buds. They’re fun and likeable, and since this is the first book in the Delta Heat series, we’re going to see more of them in the future. It will be interesting to see what Ms. Devlin does with them all.

Grade: C

Summary:

Sometimes a man’s just gotta call for backup…

Marti Kowalski is all wrong for Officer Jackson Teague—he just won’t listen to reason. She didn’t finish high school, runs a bar. Has a tattoo and a blue streak in her hair. Yet he still wants to marry her? She can’t say she’s not tempted, but she’s got a bucket list to complete before she ties the knot.

Not just any bucket—more like a fifty-five-gallon drum of sexual wishes so explicit, there’s no way one man, even Jackson, can fulfill them all.

When Marti turns him down again, Jackson doesn’t give up, he insists on knowing why. That’s when she shows him her list. He takes it, thinks about it—and calls on the only men he can trust: four buddies from his academy graduating class.

Between the five of them, he’s sure they can come up with a plan to check off every item on her list in one wild, wicked weekend. That is, if she has the nerve to follow through—and if he can bear to share her.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Fatal Heat by Lisa Marie Rice
Erotic Romantic Suspense novella published by Avon Impulse 8 Nov 11

I always love heroes written by Lisa Marie Rice. Give me a hero like Max Wright, alpha, determined, strong, but still tender and gentle, and I’m a very happy reader. It then follows she’ll also create the perfect heroine for such a man. Storyline is secondary for me, as is villain – hell, everything else, though she usually gives me something I can sink my teeth into. But it’s all about the hero for me.

Max is a former SEAL, severely wounded in Afghanistan. Taking a former commander’s offer to recuperate at his beach house, Max figures it’s better to wallow there than anywhere else; at least he’ll be alone. His military career may be over, but he’s going to prove the doctors wrong. All it takes is determination and perseverance. He’s walking when they said he wouldn’t, now it’s time to push even further.

What he doesn’t expect is the Cookie Lady, the niece of his commander. She lives next door and leaves a plate a cookies for him after a particularly strenuous exercise routine. And that’s all it takes. From the next moment on, after he gets closer for a better look, he’s taken with Paige Waring. She makes him quite happy and horny – especially because it’s been two years since he’s had any interest in sex during his healing period. She makes his body respond every which way.

Paige is surprised at her reaction to Max. She’s the staid researcher, not a seat-of-your-pants adventurous type. But this very manly SEAL has her thinking outside her lab coat on all counts. When he offers to watch her dog – Max, of all names! LOL I had as much with that as they did – her heart trips a little faster. Within twenty-four hours these two get to know one another very, very well. She’s never done anything like that in her life. With Max, however, she can’t resist the fire and desire in his eyes.

Then out of the blue Paige is kidnapped because of the knowledge she possesses about a work project that has gone terribly wrong. Hoping Max can figure out the clues she leaves behind but fearful he may be too late, Paige holds on the best she can when being “interrogated.” With the help of pet Max, our SEAL goes after his woman, pushes himself beyond all reason, refusing to lose the best thing that’s ever happened to him. This is a man every woman wants in her life.

Of course, because this is a novella, a lot is packed in in a few pages. As usual, Ms. Rice does it just right – just enough alphaness, just enough emotion, plenty of lovemaking, and her SEALS always do that exactly right. Now, however, I’m in the mood for a full-length Rice novel. I never seem to get enough.

Grade: A

Read LynneC’s review here.

Summary:

Former Navy SEAL Max Wright is out of the SEAL Teams forever after being almost killed by an Afghani RPG. He retreats to his former XO’s beach house to lick his wounds. He wants to snarl at the world but finds it hard to snarl at his new neighbor, his XO’s beautiful goddaughter, Paige Waring, who also comes with a ridiculously likable, totally undisciplined dog.

As a plant geneticist, Paige has always been focused on her work, but when she and her dog run into Max, she recognizes the lonely, shattered man behind the rugged exterior. To her mind, sexiness always comes with a white lab coat, not with acres of tanned muscle and a tough mind-set.

When Paige’s work becomes the target of criminals and she’s abducted, Max springs into action. Though still terribly wounded, this tough as nails SEAL goes on his last mission—stopping at nothing to save the woman he loves.

No excerpt found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of The Queen’s Consort by Leia Rice
Erotica short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Jul 11

Pour a glass of wine into me and I’ll wax poetic about how erotica isn’t “just about sex.”  That in “good erotica,” written predominantly for a female readership, the sex is a catalyst for the heroine’s journey.  Yeah, I know – blah, blah, blah.  Listen, not all erotica is created equal.  Pour a second glass of wine into me and I’ll admit that some erotica?  Yeah, is all about the sex.  But you know what?  That’s not always a bad thing.  If nothing else, it adds a whole other definition to the expression “reading for pleasure.”

Arabelle is a royal maid for Marie Antoinette and has been getting her kicks of late watching the queen be pleasured by her consort.  During one such spying adventure she makes a little too much noise, and while navigating the secret passageways in the palace, the consort catches up to her.  It doesn’t exactly take a rocket scientist to know what happens next.

If you’re looking for serious naughty times in your erotica, you don’t get much naughtier than Louis XVI royal court prior to the French Revolution.  There’s oodles of palace intrigue and more hanger-ons than at a hip-hop awards show.  However, this is a short story, and an erotic one at that – so the author really glosses over the horrors of the Revolution.  Admittedly, I wasn’t terribly wild about this treatment, but crimes against humanity is definitely not the tone the author was shooting for.

Now, that being said, if you just want sexy times and don’t necessarily care (or want) some deep, angsty treatment of the time period?  By all means, this short story might be for you.  You’ve got a hero who can probably set a world’s record for stamina and horny-ness.  You’ve got a heroine who is so lusty that she lets a total stranger deflower her, and then after she’s done?  She goes back to her quarters to have encounters with other maids!  Chinese New Year doesn’t have this many fireworks.

It all boils down to what the reader wants.  If you want a hot short story with wall-to-wall, (I’ll just say it) skanky shenanigans?  Oh man, drop everything and download this right now.  But if you’re looking for a more highfalutin’ form of erotica that you can shove in the faces of all those naysayers out there?  Probably not this short story.  However, that doesn’t make this a “bad” story and it doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the heck out of reading it.

Yeah, I just said that – and I totally own it.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Royal maid Arabelle fantasizes about taking the queen’s place, but not for power or riches. She wants to be pleasured by the queen’s secret consort. Watching them together arouses cravings that her trysts with other men and her sensual encounters with her fellow maids cannot satisfy. She longs to be given licentious commands from the mysterious man, and to give orders in return.

Then, in the secret halls of Versailles, Arabelle’s fantasy comes true—with even more wicked pleasures than she imagined….

No excerpt available.

Sandy M’s review of 10 Ways to Steal Your Lover (Love by Numbers, Book 1) by Dee Tenorio
Contemporary Erotic Romance short story published by Dee Tenorio 15 Dec 11

Well, I just have to read Dee Tenorio more often. That’s all there is to it. She intrigues me with her characters and storylines, makes me laugh, her heroes make me sizzle and burn, and she packs so much into a shorter length book. But you know what’s almost better than all that?

I like the fact she can put two characters together in a room or any other small, enclosed space for pages and even chapters and never once do those scenes get boring. She did that quite successfully in Shaken, which I really enjoyed. (If you haven’t read that book, you should!) And she does it here just as successfully, starting the book off with our hero and heroine, Kane and Delilah, waking up together, naked, and with very hazy, nearly non-existent memories of the night before – Delilah’s wedding night – to Craig. Not Kane. Oh, boy.

So between touches and kisses and lots of steaminess in their Las Vegas hotel room, they try to figure out how the hell they ended up together like this. Each remembers a different portion of the previous evening. First order of business is to start investigating to see what they can find out about the happenings of last night, along with figuring out where the bag of money in the hotel closet came from. Did they rob a casino? Not once are these scenes mundane in any way. Kane and Delilah go from bewilderment to hot and bothered to guilt and a few other emotions, all wrapped in a sensuousness in those very close quarters.

And thus begins their trek of talking to whoever they can to discover how their world woke up feeling so right in and among the guilt – not the feeling of settling for something less. They get a lot of discovering done before they have to face Delilah’s parents – and Craig. Kane, Jesse, and Craig have been best friends for years, the unlikeliest of friends you’ll find, but the friendship works and is quite special to each of them. You can imagine then how Kane must feel to face Craig, knowing what he’s done to this man who’s also like a brother. The same goes for Delilah, but she has the added stress of also facing her military father – the booming drill sergeant type man who expects to be obeyed, no matter what.

I have to tell you, the way the story unfolds, bit by bit, the haziness clearing away, the sacrifices and pure friendship that are revealed are just wonderful. Dee Tenorio always gives readers these little romantic jewels that never disappoint. Try one of her books and you’ll know exactly what I mean.

Grade: B+

Summary:

His best friend’s wedding just turned into the craziest hangover ever…

Kane Wilkensen’s buddy was about to marry the girl of Kane’s dreams. Which would have been fine—heartbreaking but fine—if Kane hadn’t woken up in a Las Vegas honeymoon suite with her, a giant sack of money and a great big blank spot in both their memories first.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

5 Secrets You Never Tell – 2012

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Another Chance by Portia Da Costa
Erotic Romance short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Sep 11

There is a definite skill in writing short, and some authors just seem to be born with it.  Portia Da Costa is one of these writers.  Yes, I’m reading a short story, and no, that is never the same thing as a full-length novel, but I still feel like I’m getting a full story.  Do I want more?  Sure.  But that doesn’t mean the story is “lacking” because of its brevity.

It’s been a while since Maud Piper has had a lover, which probably explains why happening upon her employers, the Marquis and Marchioness of Blaystock Manor, having a little spankin’ fun in their kitchen has gotten her all worked up.  She’s enjoying the show, out of sight, or so she thinks.  William Graves, the groundskeeper at the estate, catches her in the act of spying, and doing other things (wink, wink, nudge, nudge).  Being a gentleman, he helps her out – which gets Maud thinking, maybe William is the man who can fulfill her needs.

This story is textbook Da Costa and has all the trademarks I’ve come to love about her work.  There’s a lovely playfulness to the characters and love scenes.  The story is told from Maud’s point-of-view and she’s just the sort of heroine you’d love to be best friends with.  As an added bonus?  She’s 45 (happy day!) and an archivist (darn close to librarian!).

Behind the playful love scenes, and the mild kink of the spanking storyline, there’s a depth here that is also refreshing.  Maud hasn’t had a partner who has met her needs since a former finance.  What happened to that relationship and what she shares in common with William make for a nice touching moment in the final moments of the story.

Things end on an upbeat note.  This is a short story, so wedding bells would be forcing the issue, but this tale ends in such a way that a full-fledged romance isn’t hard to imagine.  Since Da Costa likes to resurrect past couples and slyly insert them into new stories (see: the Marquis and Marchioness), hopefully we’ll run into Maud and William again down the road.

Grade: B+

Summary:

The Chance of a Lifetime…Again.

It’s been a long time since Maud Piper has had a lover, particularly one who can give her what she really wants: the masterful hand of a strong, powerful man. The sting of pain that turns into pleasure.

Only Maud’s late fiancé had been able to satisfy her. Not even watching her employers at Blaystock Manor, the Marquis and Marchioness, in their own rough love play brings her the release she longs for—until she is caught in the act by William Graves, the estate’s ruggedly handsome steward. Can he give Maud another chance to experience the pleasure she craves?

The highly anticipated sequel to Portia Da Costa’s Chance of a Lifetime.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Cowboy Casanova (Rough Riders, Book 12) by Lorelei James
Contemporary Western  Erotic Romance published by Samhain 6 Dec 11

Oh. My. God. Is it hot in here or is it just me?? You’ll know exactly what I mean once you get immersed in this sexy, hot, sweaty, erotic, down ‘n dirty ride, the lastest in Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series. Ben McKay is a man you don’t mess with. Well, unless you want to be dominated. And like his heroine, Ainsley, I wouldn’t mind that one bit.

Ainsley is finally bucking up to find out what it is she needs in the bedroom. Her ex-husband didn’t like the way she wanted to spice up their very vanilla sex life, so after a few hurled insults and shitty behavior on his part, she got rid of him. So here she is at the Rawhide Club, an exclusive niche where Doms and subs come for privacy and to quench their thirst for a lifestyle most folks wouldn’t understand. Her jerk of an ex-husband sure didn’t, and she’s at least curious and willing to learn.

Getting out of Sundance to keep his sexual appetites private, Ben McKay is a founding member of the club, where his dominant side can be free without fear of discovery, criticism, or reprisal. When he spies Ainsley, Ben knows without a doubt the woman is not a Domme. She’s a submissive through and through, and he’s determined to prove it to her.

Spending two nights introducing new sexual delights to Ainsley is not enough for Ben, however. He wants more and extracts a promise from her to join him again the next weekend. But imagine his surprise when he runs into her in Sundance. At the local bank. Where she’s the president. There’s not much that gets Ben hotter than the dichotomy of seeing Ainsley in her pinstripe suit and business-like heels and then having her spread before him to give her pleasure in ways she’s never known. Instead of a weekend, they work out an arrangement for Ainsley to be Ben’s sub for the next thirty days.

And what a month it is. They go from deep lust with a bite of pain and passionate pleasure to misunderstandings that push Ben to show Ainsley how wrong she is in her assumptions when it comes to the relationship they’ve carved out for themselves, from laughter and smiles and kisses to lessons of sweet torture, all which frees Ainsley when she gives up control to Ben. It’s been the time of their lives.

Suddenly, however, things being to go wrong for them. Ben needs cash to buy the land next to his property he and his family have wanted for years. Thinking to keep it a secret so the deal doesn’t go south, he goes to Ainsley for a loan instead of his own bank. Ainsley is every inch the businesswoman, though, and puts down new rules for them: she files his loan application, their relationship is over. Ben has yet to acknowledge to himself what Ainsley truly means to him, so he goes through with the deal and watches her walk away, knowing they’re both sunk if anyone finds out about any aspect of their time together, including what she’s done for him at the bank.

So Ben heads back to the Rawhide club to continue his life, but the place doesn’t hold the same appeal without Ainsley. Participating only at the request of other members, his cousin Dalton sees it all and is horrified watching Ben in his element. Now Ben will have to live through his family knowing about this side of him, stand by while they’re embarrassed and disgusted by how he’s chosen to live.

Now, I have to say that there’s been very few Dom/sub books I’ve liked over the years. And because most don’t work for me, I haven’t read that many in a while. Yes, I know it’s predominantly because I don’t “get” the appeal, the need to give up control, to be submissive. But where all those other authors have miserably failed in this genre, Lorelei James thoroughly succeeds. Because she creates characters who are so extremely likeable and vulnerable, sexy, fun-loving, and real, and because she pulls me into their lives before introducing their sex life, because sex in her books is not in any way gratuitous, what they do behind closed doors works for me. I like Ainsley. She’s open and honest and fun, and she pushes Ben’s buttons. Of course, as with most of James’ heroes, I love Ben. He’s a cowboy to die for, a man of few words, and, without a doubt, uber dominant. So when he introduces Ainsley to his toys, when he disciplines her, punishes her, ultimately pleasures her as well as himself, I don’t roll my eyes or blurt out “You’ve got to be kidding!” or any number of other things as I’ve done in the past with other books. I enjoy both of these characters immensely, in and out of the bedroom.

I also like the fact that Ms. James gives a clear understanding to the reader why Ainsley likes giving up control. This has always been a sticking point in those previous books. “Just because” doesn’t cut it. At least not for me. For most authors that’s just a ploy just to write sex, sex, sex, but I want a story to go along with all that sex, and there’s very few authors who can do that and also give you a balanced and enjoyable book. Lorelei James has done just that and then some in Cowboy Casaova.

It doesn’t matter one bit what topic she chooses to write for her characters. Her books are always well-though out; entertaining, even despite that topic; loads of fun; steamy as hell; and full of honest, sexy characters who embody family and love and romance.

Grade: A

Summary:

His rough touch makes her lose control…

In Sundance, Wyoming, you can’t throw a boot without hitting a McKay cowboy, so Ben McKay is used to fading into the background. Except on weekends, when he’s Bennett, imposing Dom at The Rawhide Club, surrounded by a bevy of female subs eager for the attention of his long…whip.

As for the curvy brunette eying him from across the room? He’ll eat his Stetson if she’s the experienced Domme she claims to be. Bennett offers her a deal—he’ll let her call the shots for one night. But the next night he gets to prove to her how freeing it’ll be when he takes the reins.

Ainsley Hamilton is amazed by how well Bennett read her every secret yearning during that one explosive weekend—and she’s stunned when they come face to face in their everyday lives as rancher and new bank president. Now Ben’s urging her to explore her submissive side outside the club, and there’s something in his commanding gaze that makes it too easy to let him take control—of her desires and her pleasure.

Can Ben help Ainsley overcome her fear that a relationship built on dark sexual appetites won’t survive the light of day?

Read an excerpt. (click excerpt tab)

Other books in this series:

LynneC’s review of Fatal Heat by Lisa Marie Rice
Contemporary Erotic Romance novella published by Avon Impulse  8 Nov 11

Max is a retired SEAL, recovering from terrible injury that has left one leg very afflicted. He did his best to restore his health after being blown up in Afghanistan, but he is now coming to terms with the fact that he isn’t going back.

Paige is used to hunky ex-navy men moving into the apartment next door, because her godfather lends his place to them from time to time when he’s not in residence. But this one blows her away, especially after an encounter on the beach, when they find out that her dog and the man next door have the same name. Paige is working in bio-genetics and she’s academically clever, but that doesn’t seem to translate into her ordinary life.

The first part of this short novella is Max and Paige meeting and connecting, which they do very quickly. They fall for each other too fast, but this story gives them a believable ending and a sweet epilogue, set a year after the main events. Then, in the second half of the book, something else happens, and suddenly we’re in combat mode with Paige in danger.

This part of the story is the least successful. I didn’t find the story believable, or the motives of the villain. The whole plot is paper-thin and contains a few holes you have to try to ignore in order to enjoy the rest of the story. Paige does some silly things, even though she has a godfather in the SEALs and is involved in a sensitive project.

Max does a bit too much moaning in the first part of the story, lots of reflection about his lot and not much action. But it’s understandable, considering. He doesn’t know what to do with his future, but he knows he has to do something. I’m not sure why he comes to the decision he does, but it’s a tiny bit pat for me. However, there isn’t much room in a novella to develop all the themes. He does a bit of SEAL-ing later on in the story, and there he comes to life. I’m also interested in his colleague, and I’d love a story about him.

Paige is an interesting character, until she turns into a McGuffin. I do feel more in sympathy with Max, and I feel that Paige is a little less well developed. But the best part of the story for me is when they come together and begin to learn each other. That is fun, and the sex is nicely hot. Very hot, in fact. I’m quite surprised when the C word turns up a lot in the book, but it is the way Max would think and I, for one, didn’t object to its use.

I am surprised when the story ends, because there’s still nearly 40% of space left of the story on my reader. The rest of the book is filled in with extracts and teasers. I don’t mind, but in this case it isn’t well telegraphed and I’m left wondering how the person who plunked down their hard-earned would feel (I got my copy from NetGalley).

SPOILER ALERT:

Paige’s friend discovers that the super-crop they’re working on is also super-carcinogenic. The villain decides to take advantage of this by buying and selling shares. The subject of insider trading is brought up, and rightly so. Surely the villain must have known that he’d be caught, prosecuted and sent to jail? It’s just not that easy to do it these days. And the super-crop is in a final stage of development. One of the first things they’re checked and monitored for is the carcinogenic effect. If it is massively carcinogenic, the project wouldn’t have survived for long. There are also some decisions the heroine makes that I find hard to understand, if she’s so bright. When she’s sent the offending file, surely she should have sent it into the cloud? Besides, there would be residual copies and there wouldn’t be just one report. But to do the plot justice, it is never assumed that the crop will hit the market. Just that the project will last long enough for the villain to get his money.

But it’s a sweet novella, and I will definitely be looking for more books by Ms. Rice.

Grade: C

Summary:

Former Navy SEAL Max Wright is out of the SEAL Teams forever after being almost killed by an Afghani RPG. He retreats to his former XO’s beach house to lick his wounds. He wants to snarl at the world but finds it hard to snarl at his new neighbor, his XO’s beautiful goddaughter, Paige Waring, who also comes with a ridiculously likable, totally undisciplined dog.

As a plant geneticist, Paige has always been focused on her work, but when she and her dog run into Max, she recognizes the lonely, shattered man behind the rugged exterior. To her mind, sexiness always comes with a white lab coat, not with acres of tanned muscle and a tough mind-set.

When Paige’s work becomes the target of criminals and she’s abducted, Max springs into action. Though still terribly wounded, this tough as nails SEAL goes on his last mission—stopping at nothing to save the woman he loves.

No excerpt found.

Sandy M’s review of Shooting Stars by Bella Andre
Time Travel Romance erotic short story ebook published by Bella Andre 15 Oct 10

I’m a huge time travel fan, so I was a pleasantly surprised when I started reading this short story and found time traveling is the main star. Among the shooting starts needed to help our heroines out anyway. I’m glad Bella Andre decided to breathe new life into her older books. I’ve had fun with the two I’ve read so far.

Now, you have to keep in mind Shooting Stars is a short story. It suffers the same fate as pretty much every other short story out there – not enough time for the characters to delve into each other but in bed. Christina and Christiania know what they want, what they need in their lives to be happy. So when they see it, experience it, they know it’s right. Therefore, take this book for what it is and go with the flow. Especially the hot, hot sex!

Christina has picked up another man at another bar. For sex. Same old, same old for her lately. So much so she begins daydreaming this time around instead of enjoying Jake’s ministrations. Suddenly she’s thrown into the past, trading places with the girl who is marrying an alpha-to-the-core Scottish laird, Marcus. He wants a biddable wife to give him sons, and that’s what he’s getting in Christiania. The next thing he knows, however, his wife has become too independent and cusses up a storm.

Christiania is too shy, too timid for the likes of Marcus. She needs gentle wooing and loving. Finding herself thrust into the life and bed of Jake, the one who doesn’t do it for Christina, is just what Christiania needs. Jake is a man who gives more than he takes, seeing to Christiania’s wants before his own. They’re perfect for each other.

Of course, all doesn’t go well for long. After getting exactly what they want, each woman is tossed back into her own time to the man neither wants to be with. Trying to figure out a way to travel back to where they belong isn’t as easy as it was the first time around. Why doesn’t a shooting star work for them a second time?

Don’t look for depth of character or intense plot. Don’t look for believability or reality. Take the steaminess and the twist of fate as it’s meant – a good, fun read in 50 pages. ‘Nuff said.

Grade: B-

Summary:

San Francisco, present: Christina wishes the men she took to bed could be more like the warriors of the past: strong, sexy and just a little bit scary.

Scotland, 1320: Convent-raised Christiania prays for a gentle man to save her from marriage to a warrior. A shooting star and a fervent wish for their heart’s desire are all it takes for both women’s dreams and wildest sexual desires to come true.

No excerpt available.

Sandy M’s review of Wrangled and Tangled (Blacktop Cowboys, Book 3) by Lorelei James
Contemporary Western Erotic Romance published by NAL Trade 1 Nov 11

After reading Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series and now this new Blacktop Cowboys series, you’d think I wouldn’t be surprised anymore at how Ms. James is able to, book after book, turn out characters who worm their way into my heart, make me laugh, make me burn, and just give me a good time from page to page. I keep thinking there’s going to be that first time one of her books isn’t going to work for me for one reason or another – I mean, it happens all the time. Right? Well, it hasn’t happened yet in all the James books I’ve read, and at this point? I don’t think it’s ever going to happen.

In this book we actually get two romances for the price of one, and Ms. James doesn’t skimp on either of them. We know from the previous book that Janie, Abe’s ex-wife, is back in Muddy Gap, working on the Split Rock Ranch project for Renner Jackson. As we pick up here with these two, sparks and barbs have been flying ever since Abe has discovered she’s back. With a lot of lust and love thrown in, though neither one will admit the love part right now, this couple has a lot to work through and has to look at each other differently from before. Abe has done a lot changing since Janie left years ago, things he couldn’t see when they’d argue about them. It takes an attempt on Janie’s life to get her back on the ranch and eventually in Abe’s bed. Just for sex, mind you. But little by little Janie sees those differences in Abe, especially those that have filled out the man, in more ways than one, and made him more irresistible than ever.

Renner, in the meantime, is having a heck of a time with his financial person, Tierney Pratt, daughter of the man he’s had to borrow money from to get Split Rock up and running. The woman is constantly giving him hell at every turn, but how he loves turning the tables on her and riling her up. But Tierney does her own share of riling Renner up too. This couple is just plain old fun from the moment they’re together on the page, walking that fine line between business associates at each other’s throats to lovers who burn up the sheets something fierce. It does take them a bit to hit those sheets, though. See, Tierney has a secret, one she’s not sure Renner’s going to like all that much. Oh, she couldn’t be more wrong.

Abe and Janie have to learn each other all over again, even in the bedroom. Afraid his sexual appetites would have made her leave him anyway, he’s now happy to hear she wants to delve into the unknown with him. I like how it’s Abe this time around who forces issues between them, questioning and taking nothing for granted as he did before. Janie is the one who is off balance this time, not sure if she should walk back into her old life. But she has no choice when Abe forces her to stay with him until the mystery surrounding her accident is solved. Even when it is, she still can’t walk away.

I have to say Renner and Tierney have an edge over Abe and Janie for me. I love their bedplay, even though Abe and Janie are smokin’ up those aformentioned sheets. When Tierney finally learns how to please Renner in bed, in her office, wherever the cowboy demands, their lovemaking is definitely intense, but it also has a sweetness about it. Maybe it’s Tierney’s inability to keep her thoughts to herself, blurting out what it is she wants to know from Renner. She’s unabashedly ecstatic to be loving and a loved by a man like this sexy cowboy. And Renner is damn sexy. And he’s humbled that someone like Tierney could love him.

Each couple has their moment when things don’t work out as they’d hoped. Having two couples like this, you wonder if perhaps one of them may not make it to the end of the book. Will Abe and Janie come to the resolution that eluded them the first time? Can Renner and Tierney overcome being on opposite sides in business to have a life together?

There’s returning secondary characters from the local salon who are a hoot to read. Especially when Tierney is among them for the first time. I have to say I laughed out loud quite a number of times during this book. Ms. James does a sensational job of balancing the fun and funny with the erotic and romantic, something a lot of erotic authors have a difficult time doing. One secondary character we will all love to hate is Tierney’s father. Arrogant SOB. Thank goodness Tierney has learned some great lessons on this journey of self-experimentation in life and love where that man is concerned.

As erotic romance readers have come to expect from one of the industry’s best, Lorelei James once again gives us characters who tug at the heart, get us overwhelmingly hot and bothered, give us a few chuckles, and just generally make us happy. What more can you ask for?

Grade: A+

Summary:

Wrangling a sweet-talkin’ cowboy can be dangerous business…

The West was not so wild for Janie Fitzhugh. Living with her rancher husband, Abe Lawson, in rural Wyoming nearly broke her spirit, so she left. But eight years later, she returns to Muddy Gap to take a job at a new resort. When an unexpected danger arises, Abe seizes the chance to protect Janie and prove he’s a changed man.

Janie’s employer at the Split Rock Ranch and Resort, Renner Jackson, has gotten himself tangled up in a devil’s bargain trying to finish the construction. His new partner’s daughter, Tierney Pratt, is a spoiled daddy’s girl and off-limits–no matter how drop-dead gorgeous she is. But Tierney’s got her own secret reasons for keeping the rough-and-tumble cowboy at a distance.

When things get down and dirty at the resort, Abe and Renner must saddle up and fight to rope in the women they can’t imagine living without…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

LynneC’s review of Hermes Online by Rose Anderson
Erotic Romance novella published by Siren Apr 11

The author sent me this book, and I was pleased to review it. Siren is a big company, but usually passes under the wire, except when it publishes one of its outrageous sexxoring ménages. But this is a sweet erotic, heterosexual, about two people falling in love. Or being in love already and not knowing it. Or something like that.

Vivienne is a town planner, and she is trying to save an old house from demolition by re-purposing it. At night, on her home computer, she dreams erotic dreams and eventually writes a story, publishing it online. She is contacted by someone and they build their connection through email, then messenger, then video. Eventually they agree to meet. There she finds the man who has been contacting her—but that’s the end of the story, and I don’t want to spoil it.

The story is in the first person, so we only get Vivienne’s point of view. I found this story a bit claustrophobic, and I wasn’t always in sympathy with Vivienne, so I would have preferred a third-person narration. There were also Mary Sue elements, although this isn’t completely a Mary Sue story. But the writing, the compliments she gets, and then the communication made me somewhat uncomfortable, as if the author was deeply embedded into her story.

Also, Vivienne is completely TSTL. Let’s see, she publishes a story on a public site, initiates communication with one of the commenters, and then continues into mutual masturbation and long descriptions of her body. She tells the truth, but there’s absolutely no guarantee that he is doing the same. He could be a she, he could be a teen having fun, he could be a crazed stalker. And she reveals her body to him first, naked, online, without showing her face. This isn’t trust, it’s rank stupidity. That’s why I had to give the book the grade I have done. That and a few other reasons, but that is the main reason. Internet security is the last thing on Vivienne’s mind, but it should have been the first. Exchanging sexy talk, okay, if you first randomise your IP address so whoever it is can’t trace you through it. Video chat? Messenger? Hell, no. And then at the end of the story, she goes to meet him in a hotel room. If he’d turned up with an axe and chopped her into little pieces, I might have enjoyed the story more. Or if she’d taken a gun or told a friend where she’d be. Anything, really.

I’ve recently written a story that involves stranger sex, and my editor was insistent I show that my heroine wasn’t stupid. She went to a reputable agency, told someone where she’d be and made sure she got there first, as well as taking some weapons with her. And she knew she was still taking a risk. Why didn’t Rose Anderson’s editors make sure she put those safeguards into place? I’m not talking about setting a good example, I’m talking TSTL here.

The “You’ve got mail” chirp of AOL – does AOL still do that? I had no idea the company was still going! Gets irritating after a while. There are a number of repetitions that could have been edited out or restated. The heroine’s long, straight red hair, for example, and the hero’s large hands (his large strangler’s hands?). It goes past reminders and continuity and enters repetition, where the reader is saying, “Yes, I know about his hands.”

I’m afraid I have absolutely no idea what Hermes had to do with the story. True, he is the messenger of the gods, but he doesn’t appear in the story, unless I missed that part. And there are other messengers who would have done. I kept expecting him to pop up and he never did. I get the sneaky feeling he is literally the thing most editors despise – the deus ex machina.

The sex is sweet and vanilla. For most of the story, it amounts to mutual masturbation. Lots and lots of it. And then some more. It progresses the story, in a way, because each time they reveal a little more about each other, but that could have been done faster. There are just accounts of her going to work, dealing with the old house, coming back to her lonely apartment, eating and then going online. And yes, you do get the details.

There is no villain, nobody who opposes what they want to do, and although there is a narrative about the old house, it doesn’t really figure in the main story, and it doesn’t link in. Remember the gun. As Jennifer Cruisie said, “If you produce a gun in chapter one, you’d better have used it by chapter six.” It seems like it doesn’t belong.

The language is odd. At times it is very old-fashioned, as if it is a historical romance. And some really strange sentences. Like, “My tenuous emotional state couldn’t bear lingering over” to which I say, “huh?” She embodies emotions and body parts a little too often and there is too much use of the passive verb and narrative, “telling” instead of “showing.”

The twist at the end isn’t really a twist. It’s easy to work out what’s going on, and I think the story might have worked better had the author been frank from the start and told the story from the viewpoint of both characters, their conflicts and anxieties working to build the tension.

I do think that if Rose Anderson had a thorough edit and incorporated all the elements of the story a little better, she might have a good story here. As it is, she’s a work in progress, and while some of the aspects of her work interest me, others make me turn off. A long mutual masturbation session between a man in jeans and a woman in sweats isn’t really my cup of tea. But it might be yours. However, her heroine deserves to die for the errors she makes in security.

Grade: D

Summary:

Imagine if you will a story begun in the halls of Mount Olympus long before this modern tale was conceived. It was a time when the god Hermes flew on his winged sandals and carried messages from the gods to the mortals below. And between that time and this, couriers became postmen and handwritten letters became bytes. It is said the gods still speak to those who listen… Left bruised and brokenhearted after a cruel breakup, Vivienne Bennet finds herself mired in a world of self-doubt. To her surprise, she receives an email that challenges her to rediscover the sensual woman she once was. Together Vivienne and the enigmatic man known only as S embark upon the world of anonymous Internet communication where suggestive emails lead to erotic chat, where cybersex leads to Skype, and C2C sends both into the arms of a love they’d believed lost forever.

Read an excerpt.

Dinca’s review of Shifting Heat (Storm Series, Book 6) by Lynne Connolly
Paranormal Romance published by Ellora’s Cave 17 Aug 11

In Shifting Heat you will find more than heat. You will find fire… in the blood, under the skin, not to mention in a flame-scorched world of flying dragons. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline where the good guys are not always good and the bad guys may or may not be as bad you think they are. It took me a while to decide who to cheer for and who to scorn. But you will fall in love with Andros,  anyone with a heart could not help themselves.

This is my second dragon book, so I am new to the shapeshifting paranormal genre. I steered away after the first book I tried appeared more like a textbook
on shapeshifters with very little story. It must have been the author who didn’t appeal, for I found nothing textbook about Shifting Heat, even if the heroine did work at a university.  I really enjoyed the story. I kept me reading even after it was time for lights out. The transformations were like pictures in my mind as I read. I could clearly see that beautiful blue dragon gracefully soaring above the city.

It is hard to imagine a nerdy geek as a stud muffin, but Lynne Connolly does a wonderful job. I have no problem visualizing Andros from every description, from the virile man taking his first step off a roof to turn into a dragon before he hit the pavement to the disabled geek who’s unable to move.

Andros can’t believe the beautiful dragon coming on to him, touching his mind and wanting him to return to her hotel room for a night of hot sex. Waking up after the best sex of his life, alone and groggy, with his ID bracelet missing, he returns to his apartment at Storm and discovers commotion. Something has happened and that beautiful dragon is involved.

Faye has been around a long time. A couple of generations longer than the young dragon she had selected to assist her in her plan to break into Storm. His ID bracelet is just what she needs, but she could not resist the human form from which he shifted. The taste and scent of him lingers with her long after the fact.  If only he didn’t work for the enemy.

As the storyline travels back in time and forward again, I got lost only once, which is probably more due to me than the book, since I am new to this genre. There is really nothing I do not like about this book. It holds my interest, it’s initiative, the sex is delivered with emotional heat and as far from clinical as you can get. And the story itself is new to me. There are five other Storm stories in this series. Once again I jumped in at the end of a series, though. But they all just might be worth glomming.  Each sounds just as interesting as this one.

Grade: A

Summary:

A book in the STORM world. Andros was a severely disabled geek working for STORM but now he’s a powerful shape-shifting dragon. Still a geek though. Meeting Faye when they’re sharing the same air space is a bit of a shock they quickly overcome in a convenient hotel room.

Hot, fast, rampant sex is just what Andros needs. Tangling with Faye between the sheets, against her desk, pretty much anywhere he can have her takes energy Andros now has in abundance. But he won’t let his emotions follow.

 

Faye never met anyone in her long life as exciting as Andros. But he works for STORM, Faye’s enemy. She’s never had anyone so young, either. But she can’t resist his strength, his determination—or his ripped body.

Together they must hunt down a mutual enemy, but to defeat him they have to come to terms with what they are, were and will become.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Ecstasy by Bella Andre
Contemporary Romance erotic short story ebook published by Bella Andre 1 Aug 11

When I read the first few paragraphs of this book, I kept thinking, “Shades of Romancing the Stone” – that first adventure scene where you end up being relieved it’s not really the movie but an excerpt from Joan Wilder’s manuscript. So when reading Charlie Gibson’s erotic story at the beginning of this book, I held my breath, waiting to find out what Bella Andre intended to do. Boy, was I ever surprised!

I’m happy to say Ms. Andre gives readers a fun story with equally fun characters. That isn’t to say there aren’t a couple of issues, but for the most part I enjoyed getting to know Charlie and Candace through their relationship with each other and through their writing.

Deciding to make a change in her writing, Candy wants to write erotic romance novels. She’s finding that a little difficult in more ways than one. The writing group she joins is disgusted with her porn, and her dates only want to get into her pants when they find out what she does for a living. Attending an erotic romance conference changes her life all the way around. All she had to do is bowl over and fall on top of Charlie Gibson, successful erotic writer.

Charlie has suffered pretty much the same fate: when women find out he writes sexy and sensual books, they simply walk out on him, thinking he’s perverted and the scum of the earth. He’d give anything to find that one woman who wouldn’t look at him in such a light. When he’s bowled over by Candace, his destiny is about to change. Agreeing to mentor her during the conference, Charlie comes up with a lesson plan that will teach her all she needs to know to get her words on paper for publication. He’s taken by surprise when Candace takes those lessons a step further.

Lesson by lesson they become lovers, each falling for the other but afraid to say anything due to the circumstances of their attraction. Both vow to tell the other how they feel after the mentoring is over. In the meantime, Candace’s writing has taken on a whole new light, and she even enters her story in a contest just to see how it goes over with the judges. Yes, she wins the contest, but will she lose Charlie when he finds out what she’s really done?

While I definitely enjoy Charlie and Candace as they get to know one another in every carnal way possible, I also want to know more about them personally. They never really talk to each other to learn those little things lovers find out. I think that’s mostly due to this being a short story, but even a short scene or two would make me happy. And I’m a tad irritated with Candace not thinking about Charlie in terms of the erotic contest she enters. I mean, he is an erotic writer, after all. That she doesn’t put two and two together just doesn’t sit right.

But, all in all, Ecstasy is an entertaining romp that will keep you turning the pages to see what these two are up to next.

Grade:B-

Summary:

Candace, a newcomer to writing erotica, is thrilled when Charlie, a veteran of the industry, agrees to be her mentor.  But neither of them ever expected that Charlie’s lessons on new positions, using toys, varying locations and role playing would spiral from verbal instruction into hot, hands on education.  Unfortunately, Candace’s deception about the new erotic romance she’s writing–where Charlie plays the starring role–is about to threaten their one chance at true love.

No excerpt available.

Ash’s review of Finding Forgiveness (Poconos Pack Book  1) by Dana Marie Bell
Erotic Paranormal Romance ebook published by Samhain 05 Jul 11

I don’t know what it is lately, but the Samhain books I’ve been reviewing have all been duds. Throughout the whole book I wanted Dave to get rid of Ben. Since it’s their romance, that’s not really a good thing.

I could not stand Ben and that is my biggest issue with Finding Forgiveness. As the pack Marshall he can feel everyone’s pain, and so he automatically assumes Dave is an alcoholic because he has headaches. There are no other signs to support it, but Ben is convinced. Even his excuse is weak and I feel that the thing that made him so sure of Dave drinking should have been how he knew he wasn’t. If Ben is used to being around an alcoholic, then I think he should know how to tell the difference between a hangover and a headache. From the start I disliked him, and it never changed.

Dave is an okay character, and if he is with someone else he could have been great. I don’t like that he goes to gay pride week at Disney World in order to find another mate, which apparently can happen but is rare. I guess if you are going to get another one, Disney World is a good place to look. Then when Ben goes there to claim him, Dave is 100 percent sure he is dreaming. It’s just…weird.

Their romance just felt…unromantic. The emotion between them is lacking. Ben should have had to grovel longer, and I think the whole headache issue went on for too long. It took years for Ben to find out the truth, and he finds it out from the alpha pair, Rick and Belle, when they finally decide to act like they care. I feel that if Rick and Belle care for Dave as much as they say they do, they would try to find out what the problem is sooner.

As for everything else, I don’t think this should be labeled Book 1 of a new series. The pack alpha has already had his own book, as have other characters we meet. It made me feel like I’m missing a lot of stuff. Not sure if I will be reading any more by this author.

Grade: D+

Summary:

To forgive is divine…if he can pin his lover down long enough to beg for it.

Poconos Pack, Book 1

Ben Malone’s role as Marshall attunes him to every nuance of the pack’s wellbeing—which means he’s forced to feel every one of his mate’s hangovers. It’s the one reason Ben will never claim Dave Maldonado. Being alone is better than being with someone who lives in a bottle.

Dave was destined to be a pack Alpha until his first migraine hit at age fifteen, the day he caught his future mate holding hands with another boy. In the nine agonizing years since, he’s contented himself as Beta, but never learned to live with the pain and confusion of Ben’s rejection.

Dave’s worst attack yet sends him to the hospital—and brings them both face to face with the misunderstanding that’s kept them apart all these years. It’s too late, though. Dave is headed for Gay Pride Week at Disney World with one goal in mind. Forget Ben Malone.

Ben’s got a problem with that. Only one man is destined to hold his David. And he’ll give anything, even his last shred of pride, to win forgiveness—and the right to finally claim his mate.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Chasin’ Eight (Rough Riders, Book 11) by Lorelei James
Contemporary Western Romance erotic ebook published by Samhain 28 Jun 11

Dammit! I went and did it again! I read this latest addition to Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series too fast. Way, way too fast. I wanted to make it last, but since it hasn’t happened so far, I have a feeling it will never happen whenever I read about those McKay boys.

I always mention the emotion that Ms. James writes in her books, it’s what draws me back each time to read her next, along with her charming and intriguing characters. Well, and the lovin’ too. While I’ve chuckled here and there over the time of reading this series, I don’t recall laughing out loud like I do with Chase and Ava. I thoroughly enjoyed this couple, from the moment they meet through their getting to know one another and then working through the changes they need to go through to come out on the other side of the new life they find for themselves, whole and intact.

Both Chase and Ava are going through their own scandals in their very different worlds. Chase is a bull rider. He’s been on the circuit for years and has gotten a tad complacent, he’s falling in the standings, not performing his best, and now has been suspended from his rodeo association after pissing off a main and very generous sponsor. Swearing off women, which has gotten him into more than enough trouble lately, and determined to get back to basics to figure out why his riding is off, Chase heads home, staying in his cousin Kane’s trailer, not wanting the rest of the family to know what he’s up to just yet.

Ava is an actress from Los Angeles and has had moderate success. Enough that she’s plenty recognizable by the masses. She’s been blindsided by the latest paparazzi report her boyfriend is gay, his picture with his new boyfriend plastered all over news rags throughout the country. She needs to get away from the City of Angels to regroup and figure out what she really wants to do now. So she contacts her friend Ginger, who recently married Kane McKay. And guess where she’ll be staying while visiting the newlyweds? I love that scene when Chase and Ava first meet in the McKay secret love nest.

Chase has been driving for hours, so he’s exhausted when he finally makes it to Kane’s. He’s so wiped out, all he does is wash the travel grime from his face and then he heads to bed. But sleep eludes him as he suddenly comes into contact with a soft and moving someone, who also reacts by jumping out of the bed quicker than lightning. Ava strikes a martial arts pose and threatens her intruder, and with the ensuing dialogue, which is hilarious, the fun with these two begins.

I especially love the truth or lie scenes. OMG, I laughed till I cried. And then I kept laughing. And while the later Twinkie scene is sexy as all get-out, I had a huge, huge grin on my face the entire time. I’m getting ahead of myself here, but this couple is just plain old fun and good times. And you ain’t read anything till you come to the mechanical bull. Oh. My. Heavens. Whew! Now let’s get back on track…

After they work their living arrangements out, Ava agrees to tag along with Chase when he starts his riding “lessons” with Cash Big Crow and Chase’s cousin Colby and then accompanies Chase for his objective of getting on as many bulls as possible from rodeo to rodeo until he finds out his fate concerning his current predicament. Ava begins to videotape Chase’s rides and before too long, his problem is pinpointed and their rodeo adventure begins. This journey throws a few eye-openers out to both Chase and Ava concerning their future and each other.

Doing her best to convince Chase to break his vow of no women for a month, Ava flirts and cajoles, all to no avail. After a few hot kisses Chase always backs off, leaving them both frustrated. Until Ava goes too far one night, bringing in another man to make Chase jealous. Our cowboy may be a mite sensitive when it comes to his non-McKay height of five-seven, but never piss him off. And he does get pissed off, just as Ava wants, and she finally gets more than she could ever imagine. And then some. Chase takes his brother’s advice about loving a woman, and if you think this cowboy was sexy before, he’s off the charts now.

Chase is like all those McKay men when makin’ love. Intense, playful, demanding, slow, fast and furious, and now generous. He thought he’s always been generous in bed, but Ava makes all the difference in the world. And once they get a true taste of one another, there’s no stopping them. They burn up the sheets any and every chance they get, which is a lot, I’m happy to tell you.

Of course, this journey can’t be all hearts and flowers and gettin’ nekkid. Tragedy strikes and Chase takes a blow that he more than likely would have sloughed off before, let alone allow it to affect him as it does now. It changes him, just as most of this introspective trek has changed him and how he looks at his life in and out of the rodeo. Ava also has her share of introspection and realizations as to how she’s lived and interacted with others, mostly because of the new project she’s working on through her photography and videography of their trip. Even as they come out on the other side of such tragic events, there’s more seeming betrayal close at hand, and our fun-loving couple end up on the skids with their hearts broken.

What I love about Chase and Ava is their lightheartedness, their banter and laughter as they get to know each other. Even then they talk to one another. They don’t let things fester and infect the relationship. This continues once they become intimate and even on through their sadness and later their anger. It goes without saying, of course, that the sex scenes are smokin’ hot and will leave you hot and bothered, due to the fact those scenes are vintage Lorelei James. No one does it better. ‘Cept maybe a McKay.

And Chapter 29! Oh my gosh, Chapter 29. Out-of-the-blue twist that had me gasping out loud. I cannot wait to see what happens next!

I have no idea how many more books are going to be in this series. I’m hoping a few more at least. I’ll never tire of these McKay boys.

Grade: A

Summary:

She wants it. He’s got it. And the chase is on.

Bull rider Chase McKay has finally landed in a pile too big to charm his way out of. Caught with his pants down, he finds himself bucked right off the PBR tour until he can get his act together.

Hollywood actress Ava Cooper became the tabloids’ favorite target when her longtime boyfriend was outed as gay. She needs a place to lay low and a chance to prove to herself that she can satisfy a red-blooded man between the sheets. The sexy, rugged cowboy she finds holed up in her Wyoming hideaway seems like the answer to her every fantasy.

But Chase has sworn off women. Forever. Or at least a month. Whichever comes first.

When they take to the road to get Chase more hands-on bull riding experience, they have every intention of keeping their hands off each other. But the two headstrong stars quickly end up riding a hot and heady rodeo circuit all their own—until the press gets wind of their affair. When the dust clears and the lights of the paparazzi fade, are they ready to give up chasing the dream for a chance of finding forever?

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Her Fantasy by Saskia Walker
Erotic romance short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Mar 11

It takes a special skill for an author to deliver a satisfying read in the length of a short story.  Not only does Saskia Walker have a healthy backlist, she’s written an impressive amount of shorter works.  So when I opened up Her Fantasy, I knew I was in the hands of a pro.  Yes, the gift box was small – but think of it as a jewelry box.

Anya Reid split from her boyfriend when she realizes that not only has the sizzle gone out of the relationship, but that she is finding herself tempted by other men.  Well, one man in particular – Warren McClure.  Never one to cheat, she takes this attraction to mean that something is definitely wrong in Denmark.  She figures even if Warren doesn’t think of her “that way,” it’s still a sign, so she’s content to be single.  But when Warren asks her out on a date?  Yeah, she doesn’t say no.  In fact, even before he broaches the subject of sexual fantasies over dinner, they’re already setting off enough sparks to power all of London.

Warren has had a crush on Anya since he first laid eyes on her at the office.  But she was involved with someone else, and Warren does not go poaching on another man’s territory.  So he’s played around, never satisfied because those women aren’t Anya, and bided his time.  Now his time is here, and he’s not about to blow it.  And if that means making Anya’s sexual fantasies come true?  So be it.

What I enjoyed about this short story is that there is an actual flesh and blood story.  It’s not just a bunch of sex scenes strung together.  I really feel like Walker shows me a world, a slice of a developing relationship, and I honestly find myself charmed by the romance.  I like Anya and Warren.  In fact, in between the hot sex and the eventual ménage a trios episode, there’s a lovely sweetness here.  I also like that after the ménage it’s not just “Oh, well, that was fun.” These two actually ::gasp:: talk about it and where their relationship is heading.

Yes, it’s a short story.  No, it’s not a full-length novel.  Yes, it’s an office romance, so readers need to get past the Danger, Danger Sexual Harassment Lawsuit warning bells.  But it’s still damn good.  In fact, it’s one of the finer Spice Briefs stories I’ve had the pleasure to read.  More, please.

Grade: B+

Summary:

“Which sexual fantasy is your ultimate turn-on?”

How is Anya Reid supposed to control her lust for her sexy coworker Warren McClure when he asks questions like that on their very first date? She has wanted Warren and to be more adventurous in bed for a long time, but she never expected him to be so direct…or to correctly guess that a menage is her secret desire.

Soon Warren isn’t just talking about Anya’s fantasies — he’s making them come true. But does he want a true relationship, or is he only interested in their erotic games?

Read an excerpt.

Dinca’s review of Desperate Desires by Terri Wolffe
Erotic Historical Romance ebook novella published by Terri Wolffe 1 Feb 11

Sex, sex and more sex. Not even really good sex. Just sex.

Lady Lucinda Davenport, at the request of her much older husband, sets out with her mentally challenged brother and several servants to kidnap a duke.  She searches the ton for a suitable father for her child.  Finding Lucien Brandford, fourth Duke of Carlsborough, to be acceptable, she lures him to her carriage while her oversized brother, Georgie, captures him in a bear hug until she can get him restrained and drugged.

Lucien wakens to find himself tethered to a bedpost.  After being restrained and drugged and kidnapped, I am wondering how he ever managed to have sex in the first place, even if she is a beautiful woman. And once he is released from bondage, he stays for more? He has always preferred women who have no need of commitment. Now he finds himself wanting the one woman he can’t lay claim to.

Long story short: the husband pimps his wife out to get an heir. Hmmmm. I guess it is not my kind of story.  I understand people do bad things for good reasons, but I just don’t see the glory here.  The end is predictable since this is supposed to be an historical romance as well as erotic. But why he would fall in love with a conniving sperm thief is beyond me.  I feel the book needs a little more story telling. That would have placed it in more of a romance category instead of, in my opinion, what goes way beyond the erotic and borders on porn, especially when the book is touted as a “sweet and spicy novella.”

Disappointment also comes near the end of the book when Lucien goes to confront the husband, aiming to tell the man that Lucinda is his and he will marry her, never let her go when she’s finally a widow. I kept reading only because this confrontation intrigued me, and it’s never given a scene of its own. It’s totally glossed over with no other mention of it whatsoever, and that one small scene would have made the entire story so much more romantic than what it is.

Considering this is Terri Wolffe’s debut book, I will not be hunting down any of her future works.

Grade: D

Summary:

The cunningly audacious Lady Lucinda Davenport is by no means a conventional woman. Smart and fiercely determined, she’s more comfortable adding numbers than she’ll ever be socializing with highfalutin members of the ton. When desperate straits force her into action to save her home and lands, she finds herself faced with only one option. Summoning every ounce of her courage, she sets in motion a wild and raunchy scheme that would set the ton on fire if they ever caught wind of her actions.

Lucien Brandford, fourth Duke of Carlsborough, is a dangerous man. Wealthy beyond imagination and handsome to a fault, the Duke is sought after by nearly every woman of the ton. Single, widowed, or married, ladies vie for his attention with cutthroat precision. But the Duke has no tolerance for the machinations of his title and fortune-hungry peers. He seeks his pleasure from women who require no commitment.

That attitude ensnares the Duke in Lady Lucinda’s plan. Caught unawares, Lucien finds himself at the mercy of a bold and luscious woman whom he cannot decide if he wants to strangle or bed.

The sensual dance that follows between captor and captive as they engage in a volatile battle for control, culminates in a seismic eruption—both psychological and sensual. As tempers flare and sparks fly, an intense and erotic interlude of passion ensues.

The temperamental lovers soon discover what all the world knows: that in order to possess the love of a lifetime, they must submit to one another to conquer their own Desperate Desires.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Three to Tango Anthology by Lauren Dane, Emma Holly, Megan Hart, Bethany Kane
Erotic Romance anthology published by Berkley 3 May 11

I was eager to read this anthology written by four of today’s most talented erotica authors. I’ve read all but Emma Holly, so I knew there’s some darned great reading to be had. I wasn’t too far off in my prediction. All the novellas featured here pretty good, and, as goes with reading anthologies, I like a couple better than others. But if you’re looking for some sizzling erotic stories, this one will satisfy any and all needs.

Flipping for Chelsea by Emma Holly

This is my first ever read of Emma Holly. I’m happy I do like this short read, because sometimes if you don’t care much for an author’s novella, it’s hard to pick up one of their full-length novels later on.

We first meet Chelsea, Luca, and Liam in 1997 when they’re young and have their futures ahead of them. Chelsea is heading off to college and she wants one last night with her two best friends. She’s always had a crush on Liam from a really early age and that’s grown into a love that is heartfelt, but it also that causes problems within the trio when they finally come together for their good-bye, even after one hot night.

Then we jump ahead to 2011 when Chelsea returns home, hoping things can somehow be better between them all. But Shay is the one who felt he was intruding on the love Liam and Chel shared, so he too has been gone, working all these years in Boston. It’s Liam and Chelsea who bridge the chasm that’s built up from years of silence and lone suffering.

When Luca makes a surprise visit, Liam has decisions to make if he wants to share in the love of these friends he’s missed for so long. This is a nice friends-to-lovers story with the extra fun of a threesome. The sex, of course, is as hot as can be. I like the characters well enough, but I feel they need a little more depth. Otherwise, a good first story for me from Emma Holly.

Grade: B

Summary:

Shay and Liam shared an unforgettable night with their lifelong friend, Chelsea, awakening a rush of forbidden feelings—feelings they have to reckon with when the three reunite, and the unrequited lust between them is too much to bear.

No excerpt available.

Dirty/Bad/Wrong by Lauren Dane

I’ve only read Lauren Dane’s Cascadia Wolves series so far, though I probably have every darned book on her backlist around here somewhere. You know, so many books too little time. I like this novella, but I have to say that I prefer her humor and her shifters. But that’s just me.

Ava is back in Petal to wrap up her mother’s life and home. With both parents now gone, she can hopefully truly forget the horrible childhood she’d suffered, all with the help of Angelo and Luca, her best friends. She’s turned into a confident, independent woman after years in L.A., so these few days in Petal should be a breeze. But she doesn’t count on the feelings that flood through her seeing the family who loved her more than her own.

And, of course, there’s Angelo and Luca and they’re happy to see Ava, want her to stay with them longer than she’s planned. They want the chance to convince her to stay with them permanently, to show her how good it can be for the three of them. And it definitely is good between them. They sizzle right off the page with a touch or a kiss, so you can imagine what happens with all that sex goin’ on.

Another friends-to-lovers read. I like the characters, and there’s more depth in this story with the telling of Ava’s growing up years, all she went through and how she’s changed. However, I do want a little more, considering this is Lauren Dane. But it does satisfy in all the right places.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Though Ava left her hard-knock Georgia childhood behind, she never forgot Luca and Angelo. Together they were best friends with a bond that could never be broken. But when she returns, the three must decide whether to face the fires that burn between them, or forgo their desires forever.

Read an excerpt.

Just One Night by Megan Hart

Up to this point, Just One Night is my favorite of the anthology. It’s one of those make-your-dream-come-true stories, all at the behest of a man who thinks he’s doing his girlfriend a favor. Jerk gets his, though.

Kerry is attending her high school reunion with one mission in mind – spending one night with her old crush, Brian. She has the “permission” of her boyfriend, Jeremy, because he wants her happy and he knows this will make her happy. So meeting up with and loving Brian for the night is a dream come true, one she’ll remember forever.

Brian has hopes to see Kerry at the reunion, but he never thinks things could go as far as they do. And he wants more from Kerry than just one night, so he finally calls her. Again, Jeremy has no problem with Kerry meeting up with Brian. In fact, he encourages it. If he knows about it, it’s not a lie, it’s not cheating. Okay, bud, whatever you say. One thing leads to another, Brian learns about Jeremy, but he still can’t resist Kerry. But after meeting Jeremy, Brian has to walk away from the love of his life.

I’m so happy that Kerry finally wakes up to the kind of love Jeremy says he has for her. Great scene. I really like Kerry and Brian, and, well, you can already figure out how I feel about Jeremy. I’m also glad to find another Megan Hart story I like. I’ve been a tad disappointed in the last couple I’ve read, especially after enjoying my first by her, Tempted, so much. This is a very good read.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Fun-loving couple Kerry and Jeremy find themselves in a triangle of trouble when Kerry’s old crush, Brian, returns for a school reunion, and Jeremy gives her his enthusiastic approval to seduce him. But while Jeremy has no trouble sharing Kerry, Brian isn’t sure he can handle what’s coming.

Read an excerpt.

On the Job by Bethany Kane

Of the four stories, this is my favorite. I’ve not read Bethany Kane per se before, but I have read her other alias, Beth Kery. So I guess you can say I’m not surprised I enjoyed this novella. We’re given more of a story that works the erotica into it instead of the other way around.

Walker Gray is retired from the Secret Service and is back in Lake Tahoe to establish his own business, but in the meantime he’s helping a friend with protection and security. The man’s fiance has been the target of an assassination attempt, so they need to find out what the hell is going on. The kink in the plan is the fiance is Madeline, the same Madeline whom Walker loved and left years before.

And Madeline is not happy he’s back. She tries to punish him in various ways, but right off the bat she learns such trying things won’t work with Walker. The first scene in which Walker is pushed too far at Maddie’s misplaced teasing is perfect. Walker doesn’t put up with much and he makes sure Maddie knows that. The dinner table scene is also one I love. All sizzling and steamy. You end up as hot and bothered as Madeline.

I like the twist that comes about at the end. All must face consequences, some good and some bad. It’s Walker who makes the story for me. He’s totally alpha. I kept thinking what a hot and sexy Highlander he would make. Yeah, it’s the historical reader who loves the Scottish in me. He’s perfect for such a role and perfect just as he is. I’m smitten.

A very, very satisfying read.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Years ago, Walker walked out on Madeline when she needed him most. Now, the ex-Secret Service agent is back—hired to protect Madeline by her billionaire boss, Tony. Madeline is determined to make him pay for denying her desires—and she’s not above bringing Tony in to sweeten the deal.

Read an excerpt.

When I read erotic books, I like a story to go along with all the sexual goings-on, which is what the Kane delivered. The other three stories deal only with what’s between the characters in terms of what happened with them in the past and then how they get reacquainted for the future, no other storyline to keep things more interesting.

All in all, this is a nice collection, and even if you haven’t read one or more of these authors, I think you’ll still have a sexy, smokin’ time with the characters they’ve created.

Overall Grade: B+

Ash’s review of A Deepest Thread of Black by Finn Marlowe
Erotic Paranormal Romance published by Samhain Publishing 08 Feb 11

I really wanted to love this book. It has more than a few plot lines that I usually enjoy, but there isn’t a single thing I like here.

As soon as the story starts, it feels like I am missing something. Twice I checked online to see if there were previous books. The world is never explained well. It took a while for me to get the difference between shifters and werewolves, and even then it is unclear. It feels like the world building is an afterthought, something to give the characters a reason to hate each other. It’s just plain confusing.

As for the characters, Colton and Killian, I don’t care for either of them. We are told Colton is a big bad werewolf hunter, but my only impression of him is that he is weak. His character never comes together, and he feels like different people, depending on what the scene calls for. He is a character that is written as expected, with no real personality. Killian is almost the same, he just plays the dominant role. The scenes between them are cold and I don’t believe any of the emotions that are supposedly between them.

I’m sorely disappointed in this story. I had to force myself to finish it so I could write this review, and it’s a short story. Sadly, this isn’t an author I plan to read again.

Grade: F

Summary:

The seduction of his enemy is the ultimate hunt…When his mortal enemy, the handsome and deadly Colton Dècarie, shows up on his doorstep asking an unspeakable favor, Killian Frost is cautious—and curious. What could drive a shape-shifter to beg a werewolf for an honorable death in the line of duty—defending humans from soul-stealing Lycans? Moreover, why ask Killian, who has kept his own feet off that dark path?

Colton’s conflicted heart can take no more of the violence that consumes more of his humanity with every hunt. Even now, Killian’s werewolf scent makes him burn with the instinctive urge to shift and destroy. Death would be a mercy, but the price is impossibly simple: one night of submission in Killian’s bed.

Yet as Killian extracts payment in flesh and pleasure, Colton finds himself giving all that’s demanded of him and more, feeling something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Alive. And Killian discovers the hidden cost of sleeping with the enemy. To keep the balance between light and dark, Bella Luna binds his Lycan blood with a quest to unravel a conspiracy threatening all his kind. If he’s brave enough, he’ll discover a love that means more than the power of a dead man’s soul.

Read an excerpt here.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s Quick Quack Reviews of Three Spice Briefs by Anne Calhoun, Elisa Adams and Destiny D’Otare
Contemporary erotic romance, contemporary erotica and historical erotic romance ebook short stories released by Spice Briefs Mar – Aug 2010

The amount of titles I currently have loaded on my Sony Reader is reaching Defcon 5, so that must mean it’s time for me to plow (heh heh, I said “plow”) through some a naughty Spice Briefs.  I tend to buy and read these stories in a totally random way, so it was just dumb luck that two of them feature rather dominant heroes.  Also dumb luck that I found the historical offering not only lacking, but just plain wrong.

What She Needs by Anne Calhoun
Contemporary erotic romance ebook short story released 1 Aug 10

The heroine (you know, I don’t think her name is ever mentioned), has a long-standing arrangement with a guy named Jack.  When he’s ready for her company, he calls her and tells her to meet him in the hotel bar.  If she agrees to meet him, she does everything he asks of her.  She’s free to say no to the invite, but if she says yes?  Jack is running the show.  And our heroine?  Always accepts the invitation.

Starting this story I pretty much knew where it was going, but that didn’t make it any less of a smokin’ hot read.  Calhoun does a wonderful job of writing anticipation, building it to a fever pitch.  And while the power dynamic in this relationship did make me a wee bit uncomfortable, that ending I knew was coming (no pun intended)?  Yeah, I can see a lot of female readers relating to it in a “OMG! Did this author just read my mind?” sort of way.

Grade: B

Summary:

When Jack calls and tells me to meet him at the hotel bar, I know two things: he wants to sleep with me, and I will let him.

That’s the rule. If I meet him, I do what he asks, when he asks. I’m free to decline his invitation, but if I accept, I’ll do what I’m told.

I always accept.

Read An Excerpt

For Your Pleasure by Elisa Adams
Contemporary erotica ebook short story released 1 Jun 10

Callie has a hunky new neighbor.  A neighbor who hasn’t put up curtains in his bedroom yet.  For two weeks she has been suitably entertained, although she wishes he’d look her way.  Then one evening, he does!  And it turns out the lusty feelings are mutual.  Ooo la la!

This story straddles the line between erotica and erotic romance.  There’s a nice, positive, and realistic ending, but not quite “final” enough to tip the romance scales.  Again, there is a lopsided power dynamic here, but one that’s easy to roll with considering Callie likes being “punished” for spying on the hero.  A well done tale with some voyeuristic kink.

Grade: B

Summary:

For two weeks Callie has been watching—and lusting after—the sexy neighbor she can spy changing in his bedroom. Even though she knows nothing else about it him, all of Callie’s fantasies have revolved around him since the first time she saw him. It’s too bad he never looked her way. Or so she thought….

On a steamy summer night, her neighbor catches her enjoying his private strip session—and comes over for a visit. And Callie soon learns that the only thing better than watching is being part of the show….

No Excerpt Found.

Knightley’s Tale by Destiny D’Otare
Historical erotic romance ebook short story released 1 Mar 10

Maeve and Devlin are a happily married couple who like to tell each other naughty stories.  This time out Maeve challenges Devlin to slut up one of her favorite Jane Austen novels.  His response to this challenge?  Knightley chases after Emma when she takes off to attend a debauched costume ball.  Emma’s plan?  Seduce Knightley.

I must have been asleep at the wheel the day I bought this story, because had I realized it was essentially fan fiction, I wouldn’t have bothered.  I’m hardly an Austen purist, but everything about putting these characters in this scenario screamed, “Ack! Wrong, wrong, wrong!” to me.  It doesn’t help matters that Knightley chooses a laughably absurd location to deflower Emma, and that Emma compares Knightley’s “Little Knightley” to a palm tree.

Hand to God, a frackin’ palm tree.

I read erotic stories to get the hell away from silly virgins, but that’s me.

This didn’t work for me so much that I’m tempted to slap it with an F, but honestly?  I do think there is an audience for this out there.  Maybe the same folks who want to read about Harry, Ron and Hermione having a threesome, but an audience nonetheless.

Grade: D-

Summary:

Maeve and Devlin are back with another erotic tale—this time featuring two of Maeve’s favorite characters as you’ve never seen them before….

Mr. Knightley is shocked that his beloved Emma would risk her reputation by visiting the scandalous pleasure garden where the ton’s sexual fantasies came to life. He’s even more astounded—and aroused—by Emma’s transformation into a sensual goddess intent on being initiated into the secrets of love…by him!

Read An Excerpt

Other stories in series:

Sandy M’s review of Explosive by Beth Kery
Contemporary Erotic Romance published by Berkley Trade 7 Dec 10

Sure wish I’d taken the time to check out the cover of this book before I started reading my e-copy. It’s perfect for the story. Thomas has suffered a family tragedy and turns to Sophie for comfort as he tries to break through an amnesiac haze to get on with his life. The man can’t keep his hands and mouth off of her. This is one hot, hot, hot, hot, hot, hot — throw in about another 50 or so hots — read. If you’re looking for a sexy, sensual, and downright sinful erotic romance, this book is what you need. Take my word for it. I still have plenty of residual physical effects after reading the plentiful sex scenes through these pages.

What I like first about this story is the mystery of it all. The mystery of why Thomas shows up on Sophie’s dock one night, disheveled and out of sorts. They don’t know each other well, having glimpses of each other when Thomas and his brother are in Sophie’s office the times Rick sees a therapist. They’re attracted to one another but have never acted on that attraction. So finding him at her lakeside vacation home is something of a shock for Sophie. The sexual tension is fierce and blasts off the page.  Sophie offers him sanctuary for the night, stepping back from what could be between them. But when Thomas seeks her out later, they combust. A huge conflagration. Explosive.

Sophie is aware of the FBI investigation of the claims that Thomas’ adoptive father is the head of an organized crime unit in Chicago. Thomas’ brother and nephew have just died in a freak boating accident. And when the FBI shows up the next day to question Thomas, more stress is heaped on the man and his family. But when Thomas comes to her office after the agents leave and they make love again, Sophie realizes Thomas is suffering a sort of post-traumatic syndrome where he doesn’t remember a specific block of time in the last day. She wants to help him, so she invites him back to the lake to rest and recuperate.

And this is where Ms. Kery really turns up the heat. A few days is all that is covered for the majority of the book, and the sex these two share during this time makes the reader combust. Thomas thinks he’s changed, not realizing the trauma he’s suffering. The times he’s rough when loving Sophie makes him feel the need to apologize for being a beast with her. A girl should be so lucky to have such a beast, let me tell you. And Sophie knows that. She’s just as voracious for Thomas as he is for her, and she’s more than willing to give herself to him in any way he wants.

In between the loving making, Sophie does try to pull information out of Thomas to get to the crux of his issues, but he’s having none of it. Thomas begins to doubt Sophie and her kindness when things don’t add up for him anymore. But I like that despite all of that, he can’t stay away from her. He thinks it’s because of this change in himself when it’s truly just because he’s found the right woman but doesn’t realize it because of all the chaos in his life.

There aren’t many clues, that I caught anyway, to let us know what’s going to happen at the end. Thomas loyally defends his father against all accusations, Sophie raises questions that should give Thomas pause. It’s not until Thomas’ memory returns in a flash of fear for Sophie that we, and Thomas, get the truth. And evil doesn’t have anything on the villain in this book.

A smoldering, sexy hero with a strong, willing heroine, both trying to get at some mysterious truth, make this erotic story come alive. You won’t want to miss this erotic romance. It’s……explosive!

Grade: B

Summary:

His touch would consume her—if it didn’t kill her first…

Dr. Sophie Gable wasn’t expecting her peaceful getaway to be shattered by the arrival of a half-dazed, dead-sexy guest. Thomas Nicasio has obviously been traumatized, and Sophie thinks she knows by what. There’s something about Thomas’s father that he can’t—or won’t—remember. Something that could get them both killed. Still she can’t resist Thomas’s electrifying seduction—or her instincts to help him…

An ex-Navy explosives specialist, Thomas has never felt this type of volatile need for a woman. Even while he’s grieving the deaths of his brother and nephew, something in Sophie makes Thomas want to overtake her, and each time he does, her willing submission makes him want her all the more. But danger is lurking close by, and if he can’t face the demons of his past, he and Sophie could be the next victims in a pattern of meaningless violence…

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Shoulda Been a Cowboy (Rough Riders, Book 7) by Lorelei James
Contemporary Western Erotic Romance published by Samhain 1 Jun 10

Jeez, I can’t believe I forgot to write this review back when Shoulda Been a Cowboy released in June. Sigh. Don’t ask me what happened, couldn’t tell ya. What I can tell ya is it’s not because I didn’t enjoy the book or it’s not good or anything along those lines. Far from it. As usual, Lorelei James kept me going from one emotion to another, hot and bothered pretty much in every darned chapter, and yearning for more, more, more when I closed the book. It would’ve been nice to make some noise for Ms. James back in June, but I’ll have to settle for doing that now, because any time talking about these Rough Riders is a good time.

Along with Kane’s book, this is the one I’ve been waiting for. Cam is the only McKay brother who chose not to follow the family footsteps into ranching. He went into the military and that’s where he stayed until injured, losing a leg and the life as he’s always known. Once home, he’s wanted nothing but solitude, keeping the family at bay from his peaceful, uncluttered abode, all with the help of sister Keeley, who also made sure everything medical concerning his doctors, treatment, and whatever else was needed to get her brother settled went like clockwork. Cam is now a local police officer and has been content, considering his circumstances.

I was curious which way Ms. James would go with Cam, either turning to his family for help and support or trying to go it alone. Family is one of the things that keeps me coming back to this series, but this time she went with that McKay pride, Cam not wanting anyone to think him weak or useless, which is what he feels most of the time when faced with those tasks that are now difficult for him. His family does leave him alone, hoping it’s the right thing to do.

But Cam is in for a surprise when he finally gives in to Domini, the woman he’s tried to stay away from so she wouldn’t be saddled with half a man. She’s a strong woman. She’s had to be to get through the hell she lived in the Ukraine before coming to the United States. They’re both scarred, physically and mentally, in the aftermath of their individual adversity. What Domini wants is to give up control, to be dominated, and to receive pleasure at the hands of a man she trusts. Cam.

And when Cam realizes this and gives Domini what she needs, the pages sizzle and burn when these two come together. In true Lorelei James fashion, the lovemaking is hot, intense, pleasurable, and very emotional. However, Domini does put her foot down when it becomes clear Cam has no intention of getting as good as he’s been giving in the bedroom. When necessary, her control is in place and she’s got the steel spine to back it up.

Cam and Domini are thrown a curve when faced with personal tragedies, one leaving a young boy orphaned, Domini the only “family” he has left. Cam steps up to help out in the most magnanimous way, because he’s not about to give Domini the opportunity to walk out of his life. Things in their new life get dicey for a while, but once they truly open up to each other, life can only get better for them.

The McKays finally put their foot down too when it comes to Cam and his desire to hide his disability from them. I love the scene between him and his brothers late in the book when he finally realizes how he’s hurt his family in keeping them out of his life. Mama McKay gets in on it too, and you don’t want to mess with Mama.

I’m very impressed with Ms. James’ consistency and high quality of writing even after seven books in this series. She keeps it fresh, fun, emotional, and burning up no matter which McKay she’s writing about.

If you’ve not read any of these Rough Rider books, well, frankly, you’re missing loads of fun with some sexy, sexy cowboys who know how to love a lady. Ain’t ya curious about what you’ve missed so far?

Grade: A

Summary:

Soldier Cameron McKay has found his niche, and it ain’t ropin’ steers and wearin’ spurs. His deputy sheriff job, plus battle injuries that ended his military career, keep him right where he wants to be: Off the ranch and away from his family’s pity. His darkest war memories are on lockdown, leaving him skeptical he’ll ever find a woman who wants a man who’s less than whole.

Domini Katzinski has had to control every aspect of her life since age eleven, when she was orphaned in the Ukraine. Watching others’ relationships crumble has convinced her to focus on the short-term and find a take-charge man to whom she can relinquish total sexual control. Cam fits the bill: gorgeous, with a brooding vulnerability no one else seems to see. Plus, he has his own handcuffs.

Once Cam gets over his surprise that sweet, shy Domini wants to be dominated, he is back to issuing orders. Their passion is as hot as a rocket-propelled grenade—and if Domini has her way, it’s a one-shot deal. Cam wants more, and launches a full-out sensual assault…until tragedy strikes, forcing him to change tactics as he tries to keep past demons from blowing their future together all to hell…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Switch by Megan Hart
Contemporary Erotic Romance published by Harlequin Spice 1 Jan 10

It’s been a long while since I’ve not finished a book. I usually stick with whatever I’m reading, good or bad, until done, but this time I’ve read half a dozen books since I put this one aside and I just can’t make myself pick it up again.

I’m getting ready to start Chapter 11, and I just don’t care anymore. I have no idea who the hero of this story is. Too much time is spent on issues in Paige’s life that just don’t make any difference to anything so far in the book. With most of it I was just plain bored. Shopping with Paige for a birthday gift for her stepmother, which the woman won’t like, and then going through the party itself lends nothing to the concept of this book. And there are other similar issues too. Getting to know Paige maybe? Fine, but I have to like the character first before I want to get to know her/him/them. There’s really nothing so far that makes me like Paige all that much.

Paige is in her mid 20s, lives alone, has a job she likes okay with a so-so boss. She goes out now and again for a night on the town with her best friend, who really turns out not to be that good of a friend after all. Their latest jaunt takes them to a local bar where Austin just happens to be. This is Paige’s ex.

She’s irritated that the friend told Austin where they were going, not wanting to be near him because of the way he treated her, but she ends up having sex with him anyway. He tries to tell her he’s changed, to give him another chance, but she won’t listen. Just heads home and life goes on as usual.

But the unusual that happens is bizarre notes are being inadvertently left in her mailbox, notes that make her think with the demands each one makes. And she’s starting to see and run into a new guy in her building. He doesn’t notice her for a while, that is until they finally have a few words at a neighborhood coffee house.

There’s other family issues and the like described in detail as they come along, but that’s it for eleven chapters. I figured the new guy is going to the hero after she leaves Austin behind, but still nothing of any substance has yet to happen because the man is hardly in the story at all. At this point I’m not even curious enough to keep reading to find out which man wins, nor am I curious enough to find out who the switch is and how Paige fares in being submissive.

The story just doesn’t grab a reader. It’s very slow. The characters aren’t all that interesting. The one sex scene in all those pages is good, enough to make me like Austin at that point. But that’s not enough.

Maybe I’m giving up too soon. Maybe in Chapter 11 things start to move in the book, things become more clear. I’ll never know.

Grade: DNF

Summary:

Don’t think.Don’t question.

Just do.

The anonymous note wasn’t for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not in the habit of reading other people’s mail, but it was just a piece of paper with a few lines scrawled on it, clearly meant for the apartment upstairs. It looked so innocent, but decidedly–
deliciously–it was not.

Before replacing the note–and the ones that followed–in its rightful slot, I devoured its contents: suggestions, instructions, summonses, commands. Each was more daring, more intricate and more arousing than the last…and I followed them all to the letter.

Before the notes, if a man had told me what to do, I’d have told him where to go. But submission is an art, and there’s something oddly freeing about doing someone’s bidding…especially when it feels so very, very good.

But I find that the more I surrender, the more powerful I feel–so it’s time to switch up roles.

We play by my rules now.

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s Quick Quack Reviews of Three Spice Briefs by Eden Bradley, Riki Kaye and Ruthie Michaels
Erotic romance and erotica ebook short stories released by Spice Briefs Feb – May 2010

There’s nothing like reading “short” for deluding myself into thinking that I’m actually making progress on my Harlequin e-book backlog.  Also, I figure since Harlequin keeps publishing the naughty Spice Briefs line, that I cannot possibly be the only one who has a minor addiction to buying them.  Oh, and reading them.  I might be willing to concede that I have a problem, but how can reading these tasty morsels be anything other than right?

Night Moves by Eden Bradley
Erotic romance ebook short story released 1 May 10

Kate’s got a thing for trains.  I mean, our girl really has a thing for riding (tee hee) the rails.  She tends to travel at night, waits for everyone to get tucked in, and then she scurries off to a private place to uh…take matters in her own hands.  Although this time around she finds her erotic moment of self-love interrupted by sexy surfer dude, Ian.  Oh my.  Whatever shall they do?

What we have here is the ol’ Hot Sex With A Hot Stranger trope.  The author makes it sizzle, incorporating two characters who are intelligent, willing to make small talk, and succumb to the spontaneity of the moment.  The resolution to this story felt a bit rushed to me, but the author ends this tale on an upbeat note.  I was left wanting more, which in the case of an erotic short story, is not necessarily a bad thing.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Something about trains had always brought out Kate’s wild side. So far it had been her own dirty little secret—until a sexy stranger catches her sneaking into his compartment looking to indulge her fantasy. But instead of throwing her out, Ian is turned on…and he’s ready to give Kate the ride of her life!

No Excerpt Found

Special Delivery by Riki Kaye
Erotic romance ebook short story released 1 Apr 10

Michael has been pulling long hours at the office, and when he gets home in the evenings he has no energy left for his wife.  Megan is starting to find this pattern of behavior annoying, and eventually decides it’s time to take matters into her own hands.  So she dons a skimpy outfit, grabs a pizza, and heads to hubby’s office for a lunch time quickie.

While Spice Briefs aren’t necessarily known for being “sweet” – this story kinda is.  Michael has been Megan’s one and only lover, and while she adores sex, she’s never been much of an instigator.  Her showing up at the office is definitely something new, and Michael?  Well, Mikey likes it.  A lot.  A quick sizzling read about a happily married couple who have hit a bump in the bedroom road.

Grade: B

Summary:

With her husband’s busy work schedule, Megan barely got a chance to have dinner with her husband, let alone make love. After three long weeks with no sex, she’s had enough. It’s time to take matters into her own hands…by visiting his office dressed as a sexy delivery girl and giving him a lunch break he’ll never forget…

No Excerpt Found

Tuscan Freedom by Ruthie Michaels
Erotica ebook short story released 1 Feb 10

Lily is in a rut, so when her college BFF, Gianna, asks her to come visit her in Italy, she’s all for it.  When she gets to Gianna’s villa who should she discover but two very sexy, and eager young men.  And wow – Gianna sure looks happy.  Wonder what that’s all about?  Ha!

Of my recent Spice Briefs reads, this one was definitely the naughtiest.  Lily has herself a grand ol’ time thanks to Gianna’s “hospitality” and the author pretty much explores all the options that two guys and two girls could possibly partake in.  However, this is very much a fantasy-laden read.  Readers looking for examination into multiple partner relationships, or those who need those safe sex moments in their erotic stories, are probably not going to be all that fulfilled here.  But it firmly fit my “erotica as fantasy” requirements, and Michaels certainly delivers with the sizzle.

Grade: B

Summary:

Lily’s normal life was dull and unchallenging—and seriously lacking in exciting sex! But when she goes on vacation in Italy, Lily finally feels free to explore a whole new side of herself…with the help of her hostess, Gianna. Before her trip is over, Lily will experience things she never imagined—such as a scandalous tryst with a stranger, a night of pleasure with her fellow houseguests, and so much more….

No Excerpt Found

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s Duckies Do Series Review of The Ladies’ Sewing Circle by Portia Da Costa
Historical erotic romance short story ebooks published by Spice Briefs May – June 2010

I’m a fan of Portia Da Costa’s brand of erotica mostly because of her heroines.  She writes really fun, strong heroines.  The kind of girls I’d like to be friends with, have a drink at the local pub with, or watch chick flicks with while digging our way through a box of chocolates.  I also like that she has a strong contemporary writing voice.  So when I heard she was working on some Victorian-set erotic romances for Harlequin, I was immediately intrigued.  Will her “voice” work as well in historical as it does in contemporary?  And while the full-length historical won’t be out until 2012 (::sob::), Portia and Spice Briefs are tempting us with two naughty short stories while we’re stuck in the waiting room.

The Gentlewoman’s Predicament
1 May 10

Sofia Harewood’s first husband wasn’t much of a lover.  Sofia might not be “worldly,” but she’s pretty sure that sex is supposed to be better.  Some of her friends look particularly happy, and Sofia is determined to discover what she’s been missing out on.  She finds help in the form of one A. Chamfleur, the proprietress of “Intimate Advice For Gentlewoman.”  Already nervous about going to such an establishment, her uneasiness hits new heights when she discovers the A. stands for Ambrose and nothing like Amelia.

What I really liked about this story was that Sofia didn’t automatically assume that she must be “bad” at sex because her sex life with Husband #1 wasn’t all that grand.  All she knows it that it should be “better” and there’s not needless time spent on her feeling inferior in the bedroom.  If anything, her sessions with Monsieur Chamfleur bring out her sensual side!  The sex scenes are tender and erotic.  It would have felt out of character to have Sofia hanging from the chandelier after all, and her awakening is handled beautifully.  The romance element in this story is pretty thin, but the ending is perfect and sets up the series nicely.

Grade: B

Summary:

Sofia Harewood’s problem: finding a partner who can please her in the bedroom better than her disappointing first husband! She senses there should be so much more to lovemaking—and she’s determined to discover what she’s been missing.

Sofia’s mission takes her to A. Chamfleur, purveyor of “Intimate Advice to the Gentlewoman”…but the encounter is not at all what she had imagined. For A. Chamfleur turns out to be Monsieur Chamfleur—and he and his associates are more than willing to introduce Sofia to a new world of sensual delights….

Read an excerpt

The Gentlewoman’s Ravishment
1 June 10

Prudence Enderby has a healthy sex life with her husband, but that doesn’t mean she can’t have fantasies.  Her favorite fantasy involves being kidnapped by a handsome brigand or pirate, so imagine her shock, when on the way home from her Ladies Sewing Circle, she’s kidnapped!  The masked man who kidnaps her takes her back to his well-appointed home where pretty soon the wanton Prudence is having her secret fantasies fulfilled.

As a fan of erotic romance, I pretty much knew where this was going after reading the summary, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a good story.  The reader does have to be willing to roll with the fantasy element here, and also the fact that Prudence doesn’t do anything to try to escape.  And really, who could blame the girl?  The erotic elements here are extremely well-done, and while Prudence doesn’t need “awakening” – her wanton ways are hard to resist.  Plenty of sizzle and another great ending.

Grade: B

Summary:

“I’d love to be abducted and ravished by some handsome brigand or pirate…”

When the women of the Ladies’ Sewing Circle share their private fantasies, some are shocked by Mrs. Prudence Enderby’s secret desire. But Prudence cannot imagine life without such exotic daydreams—especially since they arouse her husband, too!

Yet Prudence never imagined she would actually be whisked off the street by a mysterious masked man who has his wicked way with her in a carriage. Taking her back to a boudoir appointed for pleasure, he continues to bring every one of her fantasies to life. But nothing could be more surprising than when Prudence finally learns who is behind this gentlewoman’s ravishment…

Read an excerpt

Both of these stories were quick, hot reads.  Once again Da Costa employs first-person narrative, which further reinforces that sometimes the best erotic romance is all about the heroine’s journey.  These are short stories, with short word counts, but the author does a nice job of including historical elements to give these tales a Victorian feel.  Everything from the clothes to the furnishings.  Certainly it’s hard to imagine nice Victorian ladies talking about naughty business at their sewing circle, but then again, maybe not?  I wonder if it’s too late for me to learn needlepoint?

Overall Grade: B

Sandy M’s review of by Dark Embers (Dragon’s Heat, Book 1) by Tessa Adams
Paranormal Erotic Romance published by NAL Trade 6 Jul 10

Well, I’ll get it out in the open first thing. I’ve wanted to read this book because the cover caught my eye. I mean, come on. What healthy female wouldn’t like this cover, for heaven’s sake? I didn’t even bother checking to see what the book was about beforehand. I had the chance to pick it up, so I did, no questions asked. Then I found out it’s dragons.

And then as I got into the story, no doubt about it, this is my kind of book. Total alpha hero, intelligent (throughout the story too!) heroine who stands up to him, different and unique storyline, great secondary characters — and DRAGONS! — I love every word.

Having the King of the Dragonstars thrust upon him after the deaths of his parents and brother, Dylan had done his best to lead his people and keep them safe. But he’s failed. At least in his mind. His sister has also just died of a mysterious illness that has struck his clan, taking so many loved ones away, and he’s determined to find a cure but so far all research as been for naught.

He’s learned of a human scientist who’s been working on a cure for lupus. She’s dedicated and she’s focused, doesn’t stop until she has her answers. So overriding his clan’s concerns about involving humans, Dylan heads for Harvard, where he won’t leave without the woman in tow. He needs her more than his ancient alma mater does.

Phoebe and her research have just gotten the axe at Harvard. No more grants to fund her studies. Now it’s up to her to find another university or corporation who will help, but it’s too late in the year, all moneys have already been earmarked. Then in walks a stranger who at first scares her silly but who then piques her curiosity and her libido.

Dylan makes Phoebe an offer she can’t refuse, and she finds herself in New Mexico, given free rein in a spectacularly equipped lab. But she knows something’s not quite right after running tests on Dylan’s people. She just can’t put her finger on what it is, and Dylan so far has evaded her questions.

Needless to say, Dylan is hesitant to tell Phoebe about him and his inner beast. He’s been hunting for eons for his mate to secure the royal bloodline of his clan, but all female shifters he’s loved and left have not been his destiny. His attraction to Phoebe is immediate and fierce, especially to his dragon, who claws and tears at Dylan to escape to get his hands on the woman.

Phoebe at first is, of course, very doubtful of Dylan’s claims, but when he shifts before her into a beautiful, strong, and lethal predator, she wonders what else otherworldly could be out there. Riding on Dylan’s back through the New Mexico night is an experience she’ll never forget once she returns home.

Geez,I could go on and on because so much happens in this book, and I haven’t even mentioned the love scenes yet. It’s hot. And then some. Very powerful and very explosive between these two. One touch and both of them are lost for the moment until sated. Ms. Adams does a great job of describing Dylan’s dragon as it tries to get to Phoebe. That dragon is the only one who figures out Phoebe is Dylan’s mate. Smart beast.

Of course, there is an enemy clan and once they’re introduced, all hell breaks loose. There’s emotion galore throughout this book, all culminating at the end when things really go wrong and Dylan finally takes matters into his owns hands for him, not his clan.

I’m very anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. All characters I’ve met so far will make fantastic heroes. If you like dragon shifters, go get this book. Now!

Grade: A+

Summary:

King Dylan MacLeod is one of the last pure-bred dragon shapeshifters in existence—and ruler of a dying race, the Dragonstar clan. It falls to him to protect his people—and their ancient magic. He has one more duty: to provide an heir.

Like all dragons, Dylan can only procreate with his destined mate—for whom he’s searched for five hundred years. His dark, rampant sexual appetite has earned him quite the reputation, all in the pursuit of his one true match.

But his search is delayed when a deadly disease sweeps through the Dragonstars, and Dylan must venture to the human world to find a cure. He tracks down renowned biochemist Phoebe Quillum, never imagining the beautiful scientist will be the mate he’s been seeking for centuries. But no sooner do they meet then Phoebe and Dylan are besieged by an obsessive, overpowering sexual desire.

Their passion turns to something truer—and they know in their souls and bodies that they’re in too deep to get out. And when Phoebe is kidnapped by Dylan’s oldest enemy, he must risk everything to reclaim the only woman he’s ever loved, or his clan will be wiped out forever.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of Colters’ Lady (Colters’ Legacy, Book 2) by Maya Banks
Contemporary Erotic Romance ebook published by Samhain 1 Jun 10

Just a few weeks ago I finished Colters’ Woman, so I’ve been curious how Ms. Banks was going to handle the next generation of Colters and their lady. I’m glad to say she’s done a terrific job. While keeping the “tradition” of the Colters alive, we see it come to fruition in a totally different way from Colters’ Woman.

Though the current generation of Colter men grew up as their dads and their dads before them have done, with three fathers and one mother, Seth, Michael, and Dillon never even gave a thought to the fact they’d do the same when it comes to their love lives. They each have gone about their lives separate and apart from the other, not thinking about sharing a wife among them.

And then Seth comes face to face with the woman that will change all of that in an instant. Volunteering at the local soup kitchen, a pair of eyes grab him soul deep. He doesn’t want her on the streets any longer, so he follows her and convinces her to go home with him just for the night and then they’d go from there.

Lily has shut herself off from everything, living on the streets after walking away from an life-altering, soul-wrenching situation, not caring about much. When Seth offers shelter and protection for a night, she can’t keep herself from agreeing, all the while chastising herself for trusting a stranger, anything could happen. But it ends up he offers her a slice of heaven.

Then she meets Seth’s family, and they welcome her with open arms. But it’s his brothers and their reactions to her — and hers to them — that causes her more anxiety and a whole lot of pleasure. For Seth, Michael, and Dillon, it’s a lot of rearranging their lives and commitment to making a relationship with Lily work, especially because they never thought they’d be sharing the one woman that makes them each happy and complete.

When Lily decides she does want a life with these three amazing men, she knows she can’t move forward until she faces her past. And what a past it is. Filled with emotion, anger, guilt, it’s eaten at her for a long time. Even the confrontation she forces is emotion filled — and not at all what she expected.

Ms. Banks has given readers what they’ve come to love about the Colter family but in a very different way than what she’s done in Colters’ Woman. That difference kept me reading and loving these grown-up Colter men just as much as their fathers. And I like the fact she’s given us the entire family throughout the book, giving love and support to our heroes when needed.

I’m really looking forward to Colters’ Daughter, Callie’s book. It will be interesting to see what she does in finding Callie her love. Or loves? Oh, how I hope so. That will be really interesting!

Grade: B+

Summary:

Can their love give her the strength to overcome the tragedy in her past?

When police officer Seth Colter sees the delicate, shabbily dressed beauty in line at the soup kitchen where he’s serving, he’s gut shot over the idea of her being on the streets cold and alone. More baffling is the dark, possessive instinct that tells him she belongs to him.

For Lily Weston, home is a secluded nook in a back alley—until Seth offers her a place to stay. She’s wary of his offer, but even one night out of the cold is too much temptation to resist.

Seth is convinced Lily is his. The problem is, when his brothers lay eyes on her, the same primitive instinct comes roaring to the surface. The Colters never imagined they’d follow the unconventional path of their fathers, but they can’t ignore their mutual need to offer Lily their protection—and their love. But before Lily and the brothers can forge a future together, they must heal the deep wounds of her past.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Passionate Pleasures (The Pleasures, Book 5) by Bertrice Small
Contemporary Erotic Romance published by NAL Trade 3 Aug 10

I remember reading Bertrice Small when I was a teenager. She’s one of those authors a lot of us cut our romance teeth on all those years ago. Her Skye O’Malley series was a favorite back then. So, needless to say, I was a tad curious when I received Passionate Pleasures to review, especially when I realized it’s erotica. I wanted to see how it goes when old school meets new school in the world of erotic romance. Sigh. I’m sorry to say it didn’t go well at all, not only in the erotic elements but also other areas as well.

I’ve not read any other books in this series. I really don’t think that would have made a difference to the bottom line of my review. There are a few relatively major issues that I have a feeling show up in each book. Since the summary below gives you an idea of the storyline, with the exception of not hinting there’s paranormal elements included, I’ll just go to right to those major issues. However, be warned, this is a long review. I just couldn’t help myself.

There’s two elements where it seems Ms. Small is still writing like she did in the 1970s and 1980s. One is dialogue. Most of it is stilted and awkward, and people just don’t talk to one another how a lot of these characters in PP do. In fact, several times during conversations in this story, I kept thinking Stepford Wives. That’s how some of it read, like an automaton, no feeling, no emotion, or the way too much emotion for the situation. There are a few times in the book that work well, but they’re just overshadowed by those that don’t.

Along this same line, there are a lot of inconsistencies when it comes to how the characters speak. An example is the hero, Tim Blair, at one point when talking about an expectant mother used the word preggers. A very up-to-date, today word. Later, however, he uses the phrase “scare the dickens out of me,” and with the inclusion of the rest of that conversation, it just didn’t sound like the same character who I’d been reading about. And it’s not an isolated instance.

To take it a step further, the erotic nature concerning the dialogue is at times very prim sounding between the characters and then in the throes of passion, what is supposed to sound erotic just doesn’t. It’s plastic, wooden, out of character, however you’d like to say it. Very Stepford.

Next is head hopping. Granted, this isn’t done to the extent it was in our romances of old, but it’s still there and it’s blatant. It pulled me out of the story every time. Changing point of view at will never bothered me in the ’70s — I didn’t know any better at the time. But it’s a new age today of both writers and readers who do know better, and this problem is very noticeable in this book when it occurs. Literally a different point of view from a person who isn’t even in the room.

Then there’s a few things I just didn’t like, period. I wouldn’t like them in any book, not just this one. They leave me irritated. First is consistency. A couple of examples.

When Tim is unpacking in his new home in Egret Point, he opens a box of books to place on his bookshelves and he notices a problem. He then goes in to some memory about his father, I believe, and we’re never told what the problem is. Ever. Not just at that point where the problem is immediate, it’s never brought up again. Now I’m wondering about that for pages.

Next, Kathryn is in the middle of one of her fantasies with The Channel, having a rough evening with a barbarian, Temur, who sort of rescues a young girl being roughed up by his men. I say sort of because he diffuses the problem by taking the girl himself to show the boys how it’s done so she’ll cooperate and let every one of them have his way with her. Later when Temur and Kathryn are alone in his room, he orders her as his slave to bathe him, and she does a good job of it, cleaning every body part, no exclusion whatsoever. But within a few paragraphs she’s anxiously awaiting to see what his penis looks like because she didn’t get a good look at it in his earlier demonstration to his men. Huh? The woman, just moments before, had her hands all over that man in the bath.

And since I just mentioned the fantasies Kathryn programmed into The Channel for her daily quota of sex, I’ll just say each of these fantasies are just silly. Way too silly for romance and definitely for erotica. And for a mature woman who wants either just straight sex, rough sex, whatever. It feels like these are just included to get some of the erotica requirements needed.

Another problem I have is being hit over the head with things that make me think the author doesn’t have much faith in her readers’ intelligence. I only have to be told something once and I get it. It’s in the old brain and you don’t have to keep at me about it. The worst example of this is using Kathryn’s full name throughout the book where it just isn’t needed. Ever again. A few times in the beginning is sufficient. I don’t need it thrown at me over and over and over.

Along the same line, Tim keeps thinking or commenting about Kathryn’s “round breasts.” As compared to what? Square? Readers need that same description each and every time a hero pays attention to the heroine’s breasts. We know they’re round and he does too.

I also feel that Ms. Small makes Kathryn, who is an intelligent, confident, and independent woman, and Tim, a charming, educated man, seem rather brainless at times. I take issue with the fact that Kathy believes at 48 she’s too old to date, too old to get married, too old to do any number of things. She’s only three years older than I am. I certainly didn’t like the intimation I’m too old for those same things. I do like the fact that an older hero and heroine are featured, because you don’t see that too often in romance, then they’re knocked down for the very thing that’s unique about them, and it’s too bad they’re portrayed in such a way.

It’s also too bad because I actually like these characters. They’re just in the wrong romance novel. I know Ms. Small is trying to show Tim as an upstanding citizen, school principal, all-around good guy but he’s also what you don’t expect in the bedroom, especially with his sex toys and dirty words. The dichotomy just didn’t work the way it should have.

Oh, Kathy’s also five years older than Tim and has several thoughts or conversations off and on about that. I don’t see the problem. It’s not like they’re at an age that such a gap would make a difference, so I didn’t get the point in talking or thinking about it more than once, and it is more than once. They’re both responsible adults who have lived a good life up to this point, so who cares? There are other more important things to think about.

And the zinger for me, Kathy replies to Tim’s uh-oh moment of forgetting to use a condom with “Not a snowball’s chance in hell. I’m too old,” referring to the likelihood she could be pregnant. For a savvy woman of today’s world, even in small town America, that’s a very narrow, uneducated, and misinformed attitude to have. And Tim’s response to Kathryn at that point?  “I’ll take your word for it.” Please. He’s a middle school principal, a responsible male. Again, it’s just not true to their characters, their intelligence has taken a hike.

As far as my curiosity about the erotica element, I’ve decided there’s a  huge gap between authors from yesteryear and erotic authors of today. Stringing naughty words together and throwing in “Fuck me! Fuck me!” during lovemaking doesn’t make it erotic and it certainly isn’t sexy or romantic, and that happens a lot in this book. I never felt Tim and Kathy truly had an erotic connection in their love scenes. It’s simply intercourse with the F-word being interjected a number of times. It would have been more erotic to have a tender but very intense scene, then add a couple of those explicit phrases whispered back and forth, instead of all the screaming and playing with toys.

Having them playact a version of Kathy’s fantasy from The Channel doesn’t make it erotic either, especially when it didn’t work the first time around. It just feels like a case of a good veteran author trying her hand at one of today’s most popular genres and falling short.

On the other side of the coin, they do have a couple of tender moments and those are so much more enjoyable, more in line with who they are.

I came very close to not even trying to finish this book after the second chapter, but thought I’d better give it a fair shake.  There are a few nice moments in this book, I even laughed out loud once, but there’s too few of those instances to combat all this other stuff. Needless to say, I don’t have any desire to read the other books in this series.

Obviously, this novel didn’t work for me on so many levels. And I will more than likely get some flack from a few of Ms. Small’s readers about my opinion. That’s okay. If it worked for you, that’s great. As much I remember loving this author’s work years ago, I kind of wish this one had worked for me. Alas, it’s just not meant to be.

Grade: F

Summary:

Some think librarians are stuffy, narrow-minded prudes-but that’s not true of Kathryn St. John. She runs Egret Point’s library and is very involved in her community, even down to keeping them up with the latest trends. One major trend she turned the local ladies on to is the interactive network The Channel. It’s there that Kathryn extends her occupational passions into the bedroom by playing out her favorite pieces of medieval English literature. Kathryn is quite satisfied with the princes, musketeers, and highwaymen her personas seduce in The Channel. But her seductions spill out into the real world and reach Timothy Blair, new to Egret Point. He wants to satiate both of their desires, but how can he possibly compete with fantasy lovers? That is unless he can create a wicked plot twist that even Kathryn couldn’t think up in her wildest dreams…

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Unbridled by Beth Williamson
Contemporary Erotic Romance published by Berkley Trade 6 Jul 10

I’ve been on a little bit of a western kick lately, so I was looking forward to this book when I heard about it. Unfortunately, I have a huge issue with the heroine, one that just never let me warm up to her until it was much too late. But this book cover did sate my cowboy/western fixation for a while.

Alex has just lost her husband, David, a gay man twice her age who has looked after her for the last ten years. He has sheltered her since she left home at age 16 when her mother died and her father abandoned her. Now it’s time for Alex to faces her past so she can move on with her life. She’s Wyoming bound to confront whatever comes head on, her father being first on the list.

Only problem is, when she gets there, Alex has such an attitude, is rude most of the time, that I wanted to shake her, slap her, whatever to get her to fly right. She’s just too whiny. Her father has passed away, so she can’t have the knock-down drag-out she wants. But everyone should still make way for her because she’s the one who’s been wronged and she’s going to take her time getting over it in her own way.

She’s never gotten over the fact her father left her and her mother when they needed him most. Her home — the one that she left — is now a guest ranch and that sticks in her craw. Her half brother, Daniel, is the son her father always wanted, so she doesn’t want anything to do with the boy. Her stepmother was with her father the day he returned to the ranch, which just happened to be the day of her mother’s funeral, so that woman is on her list too. She bullies her way into working in the business because she doesn’t trust the word of anyone around her and she does want to contribute, even though she hates the idea of the ranch. Alex has an excuse for every one of her attitudes she tosses out to people. She never lets up.

She’s an intelligent woman, but we don’t see that intelligence at certain important points throughout the story, especially when it comes to the smarmy enemy who will try to get Finley Ranch any way he can, and he does some pretty sneaky and outrageous things, but Alex excuses him at every turn until it’s nearly too late. Her smarts don’t pop up when she needs them.

But enough of Alex.

It’s Connor who saves this book.  He’s part owner in the Finley Ranch, having been taken in by Alex’s father when he was on a very destructive path in his younger days. He lives and breathes the ranch and is nervous about what Alex is going to do with the new-found knowledge she also owns a portion of it, as does Daniel. Connor will buy her out before he’ll let her sell to their bastard neighbor.

Of course, his attraction to and lust for her is a complication he doesn’t need, but neither of them can fight it and they give in to it nearly every chance they get. The sex is hot, hot, hot. On a desk, in a chair, when people are standing only feet from them, these two get it on and burn up the pages. They’re both adventurous enough to keep the lust alive between, even despite their opposition on nearly every other front.

While Connor does have his own moment or two when I wanted to smack him as well, that didn’t last long because I know it’s Alex who’s pushing his buttons. All in all, he’s a likable hero, he handles Alex fairly well when she’s not in a snit, and puts her in her place when she is.

I wish Alex did work for me. But where others will think she’s strong and outspoken, she’s just brazen and rude in my eyes. By the time she opens her eyes to really see and embrace those around her, along with the way of life at the ranch, she’s just beaten the life out of her character for me.

I did enjoy Ms. Williamson’s writing, with the exception of some dialogue in a few places that sound stilted and awkward, but, again, I attribute that to Alex and her attitude. What Alex won’t do is keep me from reading another Williamson book. I refuse to give her that power.

Grade: C-

Summary:

Hell hath no fury like Alex Finley…

For as long as Alex could remember, life had taken everything from her. Her father had abandoned her and her dying mother, only to return upon her death to reclaim the family’s Wyoming ranch—with a new wife. Alex’s rage drove her away to Los Angeles to live with a man who could never satisfy her.

Only after ten years does she come home—and she hits the town with a vengeance, unleashing her pent-up lust on willing cowpoke Connor Matthews. But she’s in for several shocks. It turns out that the ranch is now a resort, that her late father split the estate between Alex and her young step-brother, and that Connor—the bucking bronco she wants in her bed—is running the place.

Now, Alex is torn between accepting a new family, and a lover who can give her everything she needs—or selling out to a smooth-talking neighbor and leaving the past behind her. But only when her life is on the line does she realize what she desires most of all…

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of One Weekend by Sasha White
Erotic Short Story published by Samhain 5 Apr 10

Because of  one of a reader’s favorite saying — too many books, not enough time — I’ve not not read a huge amount of Sasha White’s books as of yet. That’s not for a lack of want either. The few I have read to date I’ve enjoyed. She’s one of those authors for me who can do most anything and I will end up enjoying it. That definitely happened in One Weekend, especially because I’ve become super picky when it comes to reading menages or m/m stories. Most don’t make the grade for me, but Ms. White has the touch in this short story.

Rick and Mark are best friends, but since Rick and Angie became a couple, Mark only hangs with them now and again. He’s visiting when Angie comes home after work one scorching day. She strips down to her undies before she realizes Rick is not alone on the patio where it’s cool on that hot summer evening. Shrugging, she walks out to join the guys, and the night suddenly gets hotter.

All three of these characters are sexually adventurous, so when talk turns toward Mark joining Rick and Angie in their bed sport for the weekend, they all go for it. A weekend for the three of them has never been hotter. Ms. White makes them sizzle right off the page. But then she goes even further.

I didn’t think I’d like the direction the story was going when it sunk in where Ms. White was heading with Rick and Mark. But I have to say, because she made them really like them first, that made all the difference when Angie gets worked up thinking about the two men together and then seeing it in reality. I didn’t think the sex in these few pages could get any hotter. I was flat out wrong.

And that’s all I’m going to say. It works. Find out if you’re as adventurous as Angie. She’s having the time of her life and then some. I’m glad I joined her. You may too.

Grade: B

Summary:

Three lovers. Two days. One bed…

Angie Wilson is a lucky girl. She loves her job, her life, and her man, Rick Craig. What red-blooded woman wouldn’t revel in the attentions of a good-looking, athletic boyfriend who’s secure enough to encourage her most adventurous appetites?

One of the worst heat waves in memory has hit town, and by Friday Angie is ready to really let loose. Craig and his best friend, Mark, are chilling on the patio with cold beer when she gets home from work, and the three get comfortable. As the night moves on and the talk turns to sex, Angie longs for more than just cool air on her bare skin.

And the heat’s making her just crazy enough to go for it…

Read an excerpt.

Limecello’s review of Rampant by Saskia Walker
Erotic romance released by Harlequin Spice 1 Apr 10

I have an admitted weakness for witchy things, that I “blame” on L.J. Smith and her Secret Circle trilogy. I’m also drawn to Saskia Walker’s writing, though in this case something in the story just didn’t quite click for me. Regardless, the premise was too good to pass up, with what seemed to be a plausible story line, and something so very unique and interesting. I mean, it’s not every day you find an erotic novel where witches in Scotland are having sexytimes and doing naughty magical things, in every sense. Throw in a mischievous, notorious ghost, and you’ve got quite the party.

The heroine Zoë Daniels starts out with such promise… but after a while she just peters out for me. I realize the entire premise of the book is pretty fantastic. I’d have a hard time believing if I were in her shoes. However, in this case I didn’t really relate to her to that degree. Zoë is a very grounded, almost cautious person, and refuses to believe in magic, even though strange things are clearly happening around her, and she’s witnessed them and cognizant to the fact. This equated to willful stubbornness and denial to me, and that annoyed me. I suppose it was meant to be realistic, but I felt Zoë protested too much, and it became something of a painful refrain. “Oh no, there can’t be any such thing as magic – I’ll just forget the past 48 hours – and decide that Grayson is just employing machinations to make me have sex with him even though I’d gladly do it anyway.” So… yes. Zoë annoyed me. She does redeem herself a bit in the end, but at that point I really just wanted everything resolved. (And in her defense she does fear Grayson is just cozying up to her for the sake of his research, and he idiotically doesn’t clarify or dissuade her of that thought.)

Grayson Murdoch is a great hero, and yet a bit of a dolt. He’s incredibly powerful, with an impressive command of magic. Nevertheless that seems less than clear, and nearly contradictory at times. That, and he’s an absolute idiot when it comes to communicating with women. He knows what pitfalls exist, due to numerous similar occurrences, and yet the professor doesn’t learn from his mistakes. Nevertheless, he’s all in, going after Zoë, and protecting the world from Cain Devot. Lucky for him those tasks are parallel. Grayson is quite sexy and commanding, but seems to lose something in the space/time between his brain and mouth, as in he thinks something, but doesn’t say it. This affected how I felt about the plot (negatively) which unfortunately reflected back onto him. Maybe it was the first person point of view, and Zoë’s impressions of Grayson that made him seem so reticent, but I simply didn’t go for it.)

I had actually expected more of a twisted or tormented love triangle, but it was clear Cain was evil and bad news from the start. Zoë really only protests Grayson taking her away from Cain to be contrary. Cain seemed unbalanced, and consequently I couldn’t quite give him all the weight of the power and magic he was supposed to have. That would even have been ok, if it didn’t seem so much of the book was Zoë dragging her feet, and Grayson trying to dance around the major crisis by tricking Zoë into being useful, without her knowing how or why. I also couldn’t help but wonder why there wasn’t more suspicion about someone who had been alive for 200+ years in the same area, even with moving to different cities.

Ms. Walker is obviously talented when it comes to writing sex and heated interludes, and I quite enjoyed the juxtaposition of then versus now, with “flashbacks” to Annabel, and then Zoë currently. (That being said, while I appreciate the writing and language I didn’t love Annabel’s story. It seemed to wander and lacked a solid intent or purpose. For something so very grave, and seemingly crucial, what with Annabel essentially haunting people, the outcome fell rather flat for me.)

I loved the imagery and setting in this book. I could picture the sea side town perfectly, as well as the drive up the coast, and even the magic Grayson and Zoë (and the others) were performing. Ms. Walker writes it in a way that was so natural that I instantly fell into line, which might explain some of my frustration with Zoë holding out.

I do have to say I read this book during my slump, so that might’ve affected my enjoyment of it as well. This book offers quite a bit in one novel – and erotic novel that has both contemporary and historical aspects, and both in a very fresh package. The premise and characters are definitely memorable. I recommend this book if you enjoy Spice novels, or Ms. Walker’s writing.

Grade: D

Possession is only half the fun…

The moment she arrives at her rented vacation cottage nestled in Scotland, Zoë Daniels feels it–an arousal so powerful she’s compelled to surrender to the unusually forceful carnal desires…with nearly anyone who crosses her path. Crawford Logan, the boat builder with the wayward grin. The devilish restaurateur Cain Davot, who seems to know more about Zoë than he lets on. And even her sexy neighbor Grayson Murdoch, whose eyes delve deep into her soul as he explores every inch of her body.

Yet there’s something unsettling about the way the locals watch her, something eerie about these overwhelming encounters. Zoë knows she’s not quite in control of herself and begins to wonder if there’s any truth to the legend of Annabel McGraw, a powerful, promiscuous eighteenth-century witch who once owned the cottage, and whose spirit is rumored to affect anyone who stays there. Zoë doesn’t believe in anything that even hints at the occult, but now strange visions are turning frightening…and only one man’s touch can bring her back to earth.

Read an excerpt here.