Veena’s review of Charmed by His Love (Spellbound Falls, Book 2) by Janet Chapman
Paranormal Romance published by Jove 29 May 2012

Maximilian (Mac) Oceanus shook the earth and moved mountains to create a bottomless lake with a saltwater channel to the ocean to prove his love to Olivia Baldwin in Spellbound Falls.  Now that Mac and Olivia are happily married and starting on their new life together, Janet Chapman turns our attention to Olivia’s best friend Peg Thomson in her next installment of the Spellbound series, Charmed by His Love.

Lonely Peg lives for her children. She turns her back on love and romance, believing that the women in her family are cursed by a black widow curse that takes the lives of any men they marry. To prove her point, both her mother and grandmother are also widows having tried their luck at least twice already. She meets Duncan Mackeage in a storm of kicks and slaps as she attacks him for frightening her son.

Duncan of the Mackeage and MacBain highlander clans of Tarstone Mountain has been hired by Mac to build the road from Spellbound to the mountain resort that he is building his wife as a wedding present. Needing the gravel that Peg owns in order to get his road built, Duncan reaches out to Peg only to find her illegally hunting deer to feed her children.  Prickly Peg and crusty-on-the-outside Duncan are able to move past their unfortunate beginning, having negotiated a fair price for the gravel, to find mutually admirable characteristics.

So starts a tentative acceptance and friendship. Duncan quickly forges a relationship with Peg’s children, who view him as their missing father figure. Between Duncan, his cousin Rory MacBain, and nephew Alex, the family is protected from scary and unpleasant events in their quiet community. Duncan is the only non-magical person in his family of time-traveling, shapeshifting druids and wizards. But Peg and now Duncan are under the protection of the uber wizard Mac himself.  Duncan slowly and patiently works on Peg’s heart to free his very powerful magic that is just waiting for love to free it.

This is a charming family story with precocious children helped by a whale named Levithian, who subtly nudge their mother toward a romance that will free her to live a full life. I look forward to Carolina’s story next so I can revisit with all the characters we’ve met in these two books. The crowning glory of the book is the first day of school for Peg’s twins and Mac’s son Henry. Somewhat unusual in today’s romance novels, this one is a good clean read.

Grade: A

Summary:

All Duncan MacKeage wants is to keep his crew building roads and bridges up the mountain to the fancy resort overlooking Spellbound Falls’ new inland sea. He doesn’t want anything to do with his own family magic or with the beautiful widow, Peg Thompson, and her tribe of little heathens. But when Duncan is tasked with keeping an eye on the widow Thompson, trouble starts.

Because of a family curse, Peg fears that giving in to her desires will mean killing off another lover. But Duncan—the strong, handsome man buying her gravel—is unbelievably tempting and determined to take care of her. Torn between her head and her heart, will Peg find the strength to break free of her black-widow curse? Or will pursuing their attraction put these lovers in harm’s way?

No excerpt available.

Other books in this series:

Veena’s review of Captivated (Phantom Corps, Book 3) by Lauren Dane
Erotic Romance published by Berkley Trade 1 May 12

Lauren Dane continues her Phantom Corps series with Captivated. As the threat of war escalates, three lonely people come together and discover a deep and abiding love. They work together with other members of the Phantom Corps to defeat the Imperialist plot and make the federated universes safe.

Vincenz Cuomo Fardelle was raised as the heir to the Supreme leader of the Imperialist Universe. For the past ten years he has worked with the Federation as a member of the Phantom Corps to bring an end to his father’s regime and free the people whom his father has persecuted in his quest for greater power.

Julian Marsters, his lover and partner in the Phantom Corps, is dealing with his own monsters. He burns to avenge his friend and partner Marame who was killed protecting Vincenz’s sister’s escape from the Imperialists.

Hannah Black is a brilliant scientist who has been held in isolation in an Imperialist Lab from where Vincenz rescues her during one of his missions. As she recovers her sanity and memories, she finds herself attracted to both Vincenz and Julian. Initially thinking they are gay, she fights this attraction until she finds that it’s reciprocated and she becomes a permanent third in their relationship. Their coming together and interactions are very erotic.

The erotic is very skillfully blended into an action-adventure story with a very strong emotional component.  As the Phantom Corps identify Ciro Fardelle’s diabolical plan and race toward finding and defusing his weapons of mass destruction, the relationship between the three deepens and they become a single unit.

While Vincenz and Julian are both dominant men as demonstrated by their sexual encounters with Hannah, they also show a deep level of tenderness and caring. It is very beautiful and touching to see these manly men bring Hannah little gifts to coax her out of her shell. I have read all the books in this series and while this book can be read as a stand-alone, Ms. Dane does touch upon the other characters from the series. I enjoyed this book very much. I found it fast paced with the right touch of romance, tenderness, and erotica blended into it.

Grade: A

Summary:

Vincenz Fardelle, exiled son of the Supreme Leader of the Imperialist Universe, has spent much of the last ten years working to stop the threat his father poses. But he’s not alone in his quest. Julian Marsters has lost his best friend and countless others in the war and has made vengeance his only goal. In each other, Julian and Vincenz find not only like minds, but kindred spirits.

However unexpected their relationship, everything changes for Vincenz and Julian when Hannah Black comes into their lives. Having been captured and held in near total isolation by imperialist troops, their immediate response is to protect her.

Emotionally shattered but resilient, Hannah rebuilds herself. Because of the warm safety she finds in the arms of Julian and Vincenz she becomes someone harder, stronger and bent on preventing the Imperialists from harming anyone else.

For the two men, wrestling with their passionate feelings for Hannah is only the beginning. War is about to send all three into harm’s way and an equally dangerous secret could tear them apart.

Read an excerpt. (click Excerpt link)

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of Lucky in Love (Lucky Harbor, Book 4) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance released by Forever 22 May 12

It’s time to go back to Lucky Harbor and see what’s shaking with the quirky residents.  During this visit we find out what happens when the town’s favorite “good girl” has a stormy encounter with a man known only as “Mysterious Cute Guy.”  It might be time for the good girl to take a walk on the wild side.

Mallory Quinn is one of Lucky Harbor’s good girls.  Mallory is always around to lend a helping hand and does her best to take care of everyone – she’s a nurse, for crying out loud!  And like all good girls, Mallory is looking for Mr. Right.  Unfortunately, the last couple of Mr. Rights turned out to be all wrong.  So when her best friend tells Mallory maybe it’s time to have some fun with a Mr. Wrong, it doesn’t sound like such a bad plan.  All Mallory really wants is a date for an upcoming charity auction…she never expected for Mr. Wrong to literally fall at her feet.

Ty Garrison is a former Navy SEAL.  After he was the only survivor of a crash that killed the rest of his squad, he left the military and has been working for an independent contractor. Ty still goes out on missions and gets the adrenalin rush but has a bit more control over his assignments.  He is in Lucky Harbor recuperating from an injury he got during his most recent job.  One of Ty’s military buddies is now living in Lucky Harbor and has found him a house to rent and hooked him up with a local doctor to oversee his recovery.  Ty is ready to be back on the job – he is pushing himself too hard and his doctor knows it, though.  The last thing Ty expects is a tree to fall on him during a freak snowstorm – and one of his “rescuers” to set him up on a date with one of the others.

Mallory and Ty have instant chemistry – even though she doesn’t even know his name until he has to introduce himself to the very nosy auction-attending crowd – and spend part of the evening flirting.  When Mallory has to go to a storage area to look for a missing auction item, Ty goes along and – what do you know – there is a sofa conveniently in the storage area.  Just waiting for them to put it to good use, of course.  Wheeeeeeeee!

Ty knows Mallory is a good girl and that he should stay far from her, but being with her makes him feel different than he has in ages – more alive.  Mallory knows she should stay away from Ty, too.  He is only in Lucky Harbor for a little while and she has never been anywhere else, but doesn’t she deserve something that makes her feel good, even if it isn’t something a good girl would choose?

Oh, faithful reader, I love this kind of story!  When the hero and heroine know exactly why a relationship between them should never work but can’t resist.  Playing with fire FTW! Also?  Fire is hot and so is this book…it’s sweet, too.  Ty becomes more and more involved with the good folks of Lucky Harbor, whether he wants to or not.  And Mallory finally starts to show people who she really is – maybe not always the good girl but a strong woman.

Does this book stand alone?  It does, actually.  Certainly, if you’ve read the other Lucky Harbor books, your reading will be enhanced, but it isn’t strictly necessary – but read them, why don’t you?  It’s a very enjoyable series.  :)  Also, this book is the first of a trio of connected books – each of the other Chocoholics gets her Happily Ever After very soon.  If you’re looking for a sweet, sexy, entertaining small-town romance, look no further.  Ms. Shalvis is a master.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she’s expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she’d like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he’s only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he’s gone…

For the first time in his life, Ty can’t bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn?t?including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all…anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

Read an excerpt!

Other books in the series:

Veena’s review of Between the Duke and the Deep Blue Sea (Royal Entourage, Book 1) by Sophia Nash
Historical Romance published by Avon 28 Feb 12

Between the Duke and Deep Blue Sea is a wonderful kickoff to Sophia Nash’s new regency romance series. Alex Barclay, the newly minted Duke of Kress, barely gets to celebrate his good fortune before he finds himself penniless and exiled to his crumbling estate in the wilds of Cornwall to host a house party of eligible heiresses. Contrary to his orders from the Prince Regent, he’s strongly attracted to the unsuitable and very married Roxanne Vanderhaven, who joins his household after he rescues her from near death and drowning.

Roxanne is a commoner who was married for her fortune to the Earl of Paxton and elevated to the peerage. Gradually she is isolated from her family and the people she grew up with and becomes completely submissive to her husband until she is subjected to the final indignity where he tries to engineer her death. She wants to retaliate and finds an unlike ally in her efforts in Alex.  In a series of hilarious episodes, the two of them engage in pranks that prick her husband’s vanity and ambition until “I’ve grown weary of his uninspired villainy, if he cannot provide more sport,how long must I continue playing with a mouse who is already dead?”

Alex lives life on the surface, refusing to risk his heart after he lost his parents during the French revolution. He is determined to find a rich wife as commanded by the Prince and restore his crumbling estate to its former glory. Roxanne, however, breaks through all his defenses and he finds himself fighting a losing battle against his growing attraction to her.

As gold separates from the dross, Roxanne finds new and true friends amongst the ladies attending the house party. She finds love with Alex as he cajoles and flirts with her while giving her her self-esteem back. I found myself laughing aloud at some of the conversational dialogues between them and some of the things that they do to Roxanne’s husband.

There are a lot of interesting characters that are introduced in this book, and I am sure that some of them will have greater roles and may even be the center of some of the books to come in this series. This is a delightful, lighthearted romp and makes a great read. There are some interesting twists and turns to the plot, but all comes together nicely in the end with the help of new and old friends. I am looking forward to the mysteriously disappearing Roman’s story next.

Grade: A+

Summary:

The morning after the most scandalous bachelor party of the century, the dukes of the royal entourage must face all of London’s fury . . . when not one of them can remember a thing.

Roxanne Vanderhaven always believed herself the perfect wife. But when her husband, the Earl of Paxton, leaves her clinging to the edge of a cliff, she’s forced to face the truth: she married a murderous blackguard. Her eventual rescuer, Alexander Barclay, Duke of Kress, is one of England’s most disreputable peers—a member of the notorious royal entourage, no less–and certainly the last man she can count on. Indeed, the Prince Regent himself exiled Barclay to Cornwall, and now, by decree, the dashing duke must seek a royal bride to regain favor and help quell the public’s fury against the excesses of the crown.

Roxanne desperately wants a new life—after she’s uncovered the cause of her husband’s despicable actions—and she finds herself drawn, most surprisingly, to her unlikely champion. The Duke of Kress may not be quite the scoundrel he appears…but if she gives him her heart, will Roxanne be making the same mistake twice?

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Angel’s End (Angel’s End Series, Book 1) by Cindy Holby
Western Historical Inspirational Romance published by Berkley 1 May 12

I’ve been in a cowboy mood for a while now, so every book that comes my way that has a cowboy hero, I’ve been more than happy to delve right in. So far, I’ve been lucky with the outcome of each, though a couple have fallen short of the mark. This story in Cindy Holby’s new series is a definite winner, full of emotion with an unlikely romance in the Old West, a time when you did what you had to to survive. She portrays that era perfectly, all with love and prayers, which was usually what all those who lived back then had to count on in their everyday life.

Cade Gentry is on the run. He double crossed a “business” associate and is now paying the price. While he’s not proud of some of the things he’s done, he just couldn’t be a party to murder for gain. What he got is a bullet for the trouble he caused. Figuring he’s going to die before he can get help out in the middle of nowhere, he stumbles upon a lone man, someone who could be in cahoots with his pursuer. But Cade takes a chance and instead meets Pastor Timothy Key, headed for Angel’s End to tend his new flock. Cade hasn’t talked to God in a very long while, all he’s ever gotten is silence so he figures why bother. God has a sense of humor, you know.

Now there’s one more thing Cade will carry around on his conscience – the pastor is caught in the crossfire when his partner’s hired guns catch up with him. Hoping he can pull off a identity switch, he takes the preacher’s coat, bible, and horse, leaving Pastor Key in the Lord’s hands. With pain and fever racing through his body, Cade holds on for dear life and eventually finds himself in the presence of the most beautiful angel he’s ever seen. He’s out of it for some time, fighting fever and other effects from the hole in his gut. When he wakes he hopes beyond hope he has maybe found a place he can call home. All under false pretenses, of course.

Though the new pastor would be living in her home anyway, Leah never imagined it would all begin with her taking care of the man because he’s been shot. How does a minister get in the way of a bullet? And there’s other small things that don’t seem quite right about him. But she has a son to take care of, along with a job and a house, all of it alone since her sheriff husband was killed a few years ago. The townsfolk help out when they can, especially Jake, a handsome rancher. Leah doesn’t return his feelings, though. She’s hoping for love a second time around. How she’ll find it in Angel’s End is anyone’s guess. Their town is literally the end of the road. When she finds herself attracted to the Pastor Key, Leah has to pray for strength.

Inspirational romance is not in my usual reading pattern – mostly because a lot of them get too preachy for me – but the title and blurb on this book intrigued me, along with the fact I’ve not read Ms. Holby before. She does a wonderful job, however, of giving each character in this book their own idea of God and what He offers them. There are those who believe unconditionally and send up a prayer when the going gets rough; others whose belief have gone by the wayside; and then Cade himself who just knows God laughs at him every chance He gets. While Leah holds steadfast in her faith, it’s Cade, of course, who goes through a transformation to allow both Leah and God into his life. He’s had a horrible time of it since his father abandoned him and his brother at an orphanage after their mother’s death. They were eventually adopted, something they’d longed for, but the brothers are cruelly separated and subsequent living has turned Cade into the outlaw he is today. All of the inspiration in this book is everyday life for characters of this era and it’s woven seamlessly into the threads and eventual tapestry of their lives.

Cade’s redemption isn’t given easily. He finds his conscience fights him where Leah and her son are concerned. The few scenes where he and the boy interact are lovely moments, for Cade as well as the reader. Knowing he doesn’t deserve Leah almost causes him to move on out of her life so someone better will come along for her. Even Jake would be better for her than himself. Almost. When they finally do come together, their loving is intense but sweet. I thoroughly enjoyed the turnaround when Cade takes care of Leah during her sickness. And the scenes with Jake wanting to stake territory that holds no reward for him only makes me like the man more. I’m very intrigued by this man and look forward to his book, which is next in the series. There’s a number of other fascinating secondary characters too. Even the town and the church play pivotal roles in the story.

If you love a good western romance, do read this one. Even if you’re not a total western and/or cowboy fan, I think you’ll be quite pleasantly surprised when you turn the last page of this book. You’re pulled in from the beginning, and your heart strings get a good tug every now and again. Early western life comes alive chapter after chapter. You will fall in love with simple folk trying to eke out a good life as best they can. Seems things don’t change much no matter how technology encroaches in our lives.

Grade: A

Summary:

In the mountains of Colorado, a small town called Angel’s End welcomes everyone with open arms–even a man fleeing his past…

Wounded and on the run, Cade Gentry stumbles into a kind man who’s on this way to become the new pastor of Angel’s End. But not long after Timothy Key takes him in, Cade’s enemies catch up with him, and the young pastor is killed in the cross fire. Cade survives, stealing Timothy’s identity to escape, and arrives in Angel’s End on the brink of death.

Leah Findley is the sheriff’s widow, trying to make ends meet for herself and her son. Having the new minister as a boarder will help, but she isn’t expecting him to be wounded when he arrives. And she definitely isn’t expecting the feelings that the new preacher stirs deep inside her.

The more time Cade spends with Leah, the deeper he falls in love. To Cade, she’s an angel who’s saved his life and given him the sense of hope he’s never known. But he’s not the man she thinks he is, and before he can find permanent shelter in Leah’s arms, he must learn to have faith and put hi former sins to rest.

No excerpt available.

Other books in this series:

Dinca’s review of The Would-Be Mommy by  Jacqueline Diamond
Contemporary Romance Published by Harlequin American Romance 1 Feb 10

The Would-Be Mommy is the first book in the Safe Harbor Medical series. It’s all about falling in love. First with the adorable baby girl, who is dropped off at the Safe Harbor Medical Center due to a mistake in the news, and then with the reporter, Ian Martin, covering the story.

Jennifer Serra is the PR director for Safe Harbor Medical.  She has always wanted a child and she agrees to temporarily take home one of the unwanted babies which flood the Medical Center. She bonds with baby Rosalie quickly. While trying to stay focused on the baby, she finds herself looking at Ian as father material.

Dredging up the past is not a good way to get into the good graces of the lovely Jennifer Serra with the big heart and pain-filled eyes when she talks about babies. But a reporter has to take a story where it leads, no matter how hard or damaging it can be to all involved.  I’m surprised how Ian grows as a  reporter and into a better person and, thus, has turned into one of my favorite heroes.

Jacqueline Diamond does a wonderful job of combining the past with the present. I look forward to the other stories in the series.

Grade: A

Summary:

From the moment he arrives at Safe Harbor Medical, Ian Martin is on infant overload. But the story he’s covering gets a lot more interesting when the adventure-seeking reporter meets Jennifer Serra, an intriguing PR director who has created a stir by taking home one of the center’s unwanted newborns!

Jennifer has always wanted a child of her own. Her dream becomes thrilling reality when she agrees to temporarily– permanently?–be a mother to a sweet baby girl. Ian could complete the picture–Jennifer sees how easily he bonds with little Rosalie.

But just when she begins to look at Ian as potential father material, the dashing journalist dredges up a scandal from Jennifer’s past that could
jeopardize her plans for adoption…and for a future with Ian.

Read an excerpt.

The M.D.’s Secret Daughter – 4 Sep 12

C2’s review of About That Night (FBI/US Attorney Series, Book 3) by Julie James
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 3 Apr 12

What happens when a prosecutor meets up with an almost-hook-up from college – across a courtroom??  In Julie James’ most recent release we find out.

After a long-term relationship ends, Rylann Pierce moves back to Chicago and a position in the US Attorney’s Office – a change of location and a return to old friends might be just the thing to get her new life going. Her very first assignment sends her to court to handle the resolution of some charges against “the Twitter Terrorist.”  (An aside – I LOL!  I love me some Twitter and that it weaves its way through the story made me giggle so much.  :-D)  Little does Rylann know said Terrorist is billionaire heir/computer geek Kyle Rhodes…the very same Kyle Rhodes she spetd a flirtatious evening with years before.

Kyle is just glad to finally be getting free of house arrest – which was much better than his time in prison, sure.  The last person he expects to see representing the prosecution is Rylann.  Circumstances kept him from keeping their date all those years ago (she knew what happened, don’t fret, faithful reader) and they never found each other again – he didn’t even know her last name, for crying out loud.

The old spark is still there but Rylann is the new person in her office and still finding her place – a relationship with the defendant of a very high-profile case could be awkward.  Plus she is just out of a long-term relationship.  But…hot billionaire heir?  Who can resist that??  Also, umm…

Where were we, faithful reader?  I got distracted for a minute.

Kyle is ready to get his life back on track.  He had lots of time to think and plan in prison and now it’s time to put those plans into action.  Does he have time for a relationship after his last one imploded in a spectacular fashion and landed him in jail?  Rylann will have to be pretty convincing…

I so enjoyed this book!  It is my favorite of Ms. James’ books so far – and I have liked them all.  Kyle is a genuinely good guy.  He wants to do the right thing and make his own way and has matured a lot since we first met him in A Lot Like Love.  Rylann’s job is very important to her but not to the exclusion of everything else – she makes time for her friends and for herself.  It is nice to see a romance between two realistic characters – people who, if we knew them in real life, we would want together.  This book is charming and an all-around fun read.

Grade: A

Summary:

HE’S PLAYING GAMES

Though Rylann Pierce tried to fight the sparks she felt for billionaire heir Kyle Rhodes the night they met, their sizzling chemistry was undeniable. But after being stood up on their first date, Rylann never expected to see him again. So when she finds herself face to face with Kyle in a courthouse nine years later, she’s stunned. More troubling to the beautiful Assistant U.S. Attorney is that she’s still wildly attracted to him.

BUT SHE’S MAKING THE RULES

Just released from prison, Kyle Rhodes isn’t thrilled to be the star witness in a high-profile criminal case—but when Rylann comes knocking at his door, he finds she may be the one lawyer he can’t say no to. Still as gorgeous and sharp-tongued as ever, she lays down the law: she doesn’t mix business with pleasure. But Kyle won’t give up on something he wants—and what he wants is the one woman he’s never forgotten. . .

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Sandy M’s review of Werewolf in Seattle (Wild About You, Book 4) by Vicki Lewis Thompson
Paranormal Romance published by Signet 3 Apr 12

I’ve really enjoyed reading Vicki Lewis Thompson’s paranormals, and she continues with her Wild About You series with a gentle and sensitive alpha werewolf who gets an attitude adjustment in his beliefs when he meets our heroine. Their romance is sweet but doomed. The wolf thinks he’ll be able to control his instincts, but he’s in for a huge surprise.

Colin is headed to his late great aunt’s island estate, thinking he’ll make quick arrangements to sell it all so he can return to Scotland to get back to his clan and his brother, who’s very good at keeping Colin cleaning up issue after issue. Though he has pleasant memories of visiting his aunt and the island, his duties as laird just won’t allow him to take on more responsibility.

Never fitting in nor having a home until she met Geraldine, Luna loves the Pacific Northwest island that has called to her since she arrived. She’s a hybrid, half were and half human, and never had anyone to guide her throughout her were life. Not wanting to lose the only place she’s felt comfortable, she has decided to propose a business opportunity to Colin when he arrives – turn the house and island into an exclusive shifter retreat.

When these two meet, the attraction is instant. Luna is determined to keep her distance because of her proposal, but Colin doesn’t care one whit about business getting in the way of having that lovely assistant in his bed. He doesn’t hide his feelings about weres mating with humans, so that’s another reason Luna doesn’t want to get involved with him, but good intentions on both sides go by the wayside every time they’re together. I like the early sexual tension between them, they don’t hide it, even if they don’t act on it then. And we don’t have to wait three-quarters of the book before they do fire up the pages between the sheets.

Colin tries to hold on to his idea that humans and weres don’t and shouldn’t mix, but meeting Luna makes him rethink things after a bit. He also helps her find some of her family, but they run into trouble on one end while finding a new beginning on the other for Luna. Colin has trouble of his own at home, so the time comes when he has to leave. Though they both know this time has to come, you begin to wonder what Ms. Thompson will do to get them to their happily ever after. You know it has to come, but the anticipation is fun until you get there.

Colin is a delightful hero, kind, generous, gentle, and sexy as all get-out. He even dons a kilt at one point and you can’t help but drool over him. Luna is a combination of savvy and innocence, which is due to her being alone with her werewolf-ness while growing up. There are some quirky secondary characters who keep the laughter high. This is a fun, light-hearted romance, as are the previous books in this series. It’s a feel-good read that will brighten any bad mood or reading slump. If you’re not sure what to read next, try this one. It’s time for some fun!

Grade: A

Summary:

Luna Reynaud has always been a lone wolf—because she’s half human. Afraid she’ll be rejected by both communities, she’s kept her secret from everyone, even the Weres she’s found a home with working on an estate in the San Juan Islands. But when her boss suddenly dies and the heir arrives, she discovers some secrets aren’t meant to be kept.

As the head of the most powerful werewolf clan in Scotland, Colin MacDowell isn’t eager to take on the responsibility of his great aunt’s estate—until he meets her sexy assistant, Luna. He thinks she’s the Were of his dreams, until he finds out she’s not. Highly opposed to bringing even half-humans into the pack, Colin knows he must resist this powerful attraction. But once aroused, a wolf’s instincts are not so easily subdued.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Sound of the Heart by Genevieve Graham
Historical Romance published by Berkley Trade 1 May 12

I had hopes for this book after finishing Genevieve Graham’s debut, Under the Same Sky, which I loved. Sometimes a new author has a difficult time maintaining such excellence after a first book. So you can imagine my tad of hesitation as I began reading Sound of the Heart. Should I have been worried?

Not one bit. Ms. Graham writes like an old pro. The history is rich and deep. Her characters truly live the times, the emotion tugs at your soul, and her added twist of the paranormal is just the right amount to give readers a very satisfying read.

We meet Dougal MacDonnell again at roughly the same time his brother, Andrew, is escaping the aftermath of Culloden. Dougal, however, is a prisoner of war. The feeling of despair in the very inhumane conditions of the cells these prisoners are kept in and the treatment at the hands of the English make for difficult reading. It spears your heart, especially when you meet the two young boys have also been taken captive, Joseph and Aidan. Thank the heavens Dougal and his new friend John are there to keep those youngsters safe. It’s also the boys who devise a way to escape their prison. To wish all would go well for them is futile. Suffice it to say, it’s only Dougal and Aiden who make it out of that hell. They stay ahead of soldiers, make it to London and relative safety for the time being. The taste of freedom is exhilarating.

It’s when Dougal meets Glenna that his life is worth living again. They find an abandoned Highland home, small and cozy enough, where they live blissfully for ten years. This is an existence neither of them have dreamed of since the English had outlawed everything Scottish, from their plaid to their pipes. After such harshness of life so far in this book, this time with Dougal and Glenna is one of my favorites. Their love is first cemented in friendship, then lovers. It’s not without trouble, emotional and otherwise, but it’s a good life for them. They learn everything about one another – Dougal, especially, has a secret he’s never told anyone about, not even his brother Andrew, who he shares a close and psychic bond with – as they chip away at contentment and happiness.

Of course, in such chaotic times, that happiness can’t last forever, as Dougal and Glenna abruptly discover when out hunting during a long and cold winter. Suddenly surrounded by English soldiers, Glenna is taken into custody while Dougal is left for dead. Clawing his way back to consciousness and deciding that living is better than the alternative, he eventually finds himself part of the English army sent to the Colonies to help fight the French and the Indians, because he’s found out that’s where Glenna has been sent as an indentured servant. Once again, life has taken on a desperate and hard edge. It has been years since Glenna was taken and he knows nothing of her current plight; thus, after putting up with the English and their foreign way of fighting a war, Dougal contemplates desertion, something his honor abhors but his love needs.

As in the first book, Ms. Graham has divided the book into two parts between Dougal and Glenna, giving their perspective at that point in their lives. The last third of the book is Glenna’s. While I was ready to see things from her point of view, I nearly had a conniption when the author left me hanging at the end of Dougal’s section when he realizes his brother still lives. I calmed down and figured I’d see their reunion when it’s time. Little did I know how long that wait is going to truly be. But I digress. Glenna reaches the New World shores, after once again being stuffed into the cargo hold of a ship, and is immediately put on the auction block, her humiliation complete. However, she realizes her lot will be much better than other women sold into prostitution slavery. Her new “owner” is a tobacco plantation owner and he needs a teacher for his children. Because Glenna can read, she’s chosen for the job.

Her life turns out relatively good, the loss of Dougal her only nightmare. She believes him to be dead, so memories are all she has. Glenna enjoys her station with the children and family who’ve taken her in. But all good things must come to an end, and the next thing she knows she’s thrust into a life again not of her choosing and one that begins with violence and ends with her taking her destiny into her own hands. She brings to mind all the things Dougal taught her in their time together to outsmart the arrogant asshole who takes what he wants when he wants. Admiration for this woman goes up ten-fold for what she now endures and then conquers. By this time Dougal is closer to her than ever, and Glenna discovers this. Once again her intellect, cunning, and desire and need for Dougal outshine those around her, and she finds her man in the middle of a fierce battle. Nothing stands in her way.

Ms. Graham gives readers characters who defy the odds, who fight for survival with everything they’ve got. The Scottish spirit in the aftermath of Culloden is vanquished for only so long. Though Dougal and Glenna are no longer in their home country, they have that Highland drive that keeps them going, even the loss of the Scotland they love can’t break them. Their love is a real, living emotion between them and you feel it on every page, even when they’re not together. No punches are pulled throughout this book. The times are depicted quite vividly, and your compassion and ire are piqued in equal amounts.

I am so very glad I’ve been able to read these books, and I’m so very glad there are more to come. I’m looking forward to that meeting between brothers who thought the other had perished, only to find their link to each other again. But I’m also looking forward just to the beautiful writing and wonderful characters of Genevieve Graham. I’m a fan for life.

Grade: A+

Summary:

Dougal MacDonnell, a fierce warrior from the Highlands of Scotland, is able to hear the thoughts of other men and dream how the future will unfold.

Devastated by the loss of his family during the Battle of Culloden in 1746, he fosters a deep hatred for the English. But when Glenna, the love of his life and a Scottish outlaw, is captured and shipped overseas, Dougal is forced to join an English army made of vanquished Scots. Now fighting on the side of his sworn enemies, he embarks on a journey that will take him across the seas to the colonies.

There he will risk everything for the chance to find his true love.

No excerpt available.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of The Darkest Seduction (Lords of the Underworld, Book 9) by Gena Showalter
Paranormal Romance published by HQN 28 Feb 12

I have to say that Gena Showalter can really do no wrong by me. Paris’ story is one I have been waiting for. He has been through so much and I think he’s really grown, maybe not in a good way at first, but he’s definitely not the same person he was at the start of this series.

At the start of the book, Paris is still searching for Sienna. He doesn’t know what will happen when he finds her, he knows he wants a happily ever after, but he’s doubtful since he is the reason she’s dead.

I think one of the things I appreciate most about The Darkest Seduction is the way Paris and Sienna come together. They don’t see each other and suddenly fall madly in love. It’s awkward and they have a lot of baggage to overcome. They are both full of guilt toward each other, but also have hope. They still have tons of chemistry and this book is hot. Paris has not been the keeper of Promiscuity without learning some things. They really have a love story, and I can read it over and over again. Paris is my new favorite, after William, of course.

There is also more fighting, new bad (maybe?) guys, new creatures, new good (maybe?) guys, and even a very conceited goddess who I love to hate. Things have been steadily going toward something happening, and finally something does.

The twist in their lives is completely unexpected, at least for me. It does make perfect sense, though, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. It’s refreshing to not have things be put off book after book. It keeps things exciting and I want the next book right now. I also am dying for Zacharel’s book, and the start of that series. We get glimpses of the other Lords, and now I want to go and re-read Lucien and Maddox’s books – and probably all of the books.

I am just very happy when I am reading anything set in this world.

Grade: A

Summary:

Possessed by the demon of Promiscuity, immortal warrior Paris is irresistibly seductive—but his potent allure comes at a terrible price. Every night he must bed someone new, or weaken and die. And the woman he craves above all others is the one woman he’d thought was forever beyond his reach…until now.

Newly possessed by the demon of Wrath, Sienna Blackstone is racked by a ruthless need to punish those around her. Yet in Paris’s arms, the vulnerable beauty finds soul-searing passion and incredible peace. Until a blood feud between ancient enemies heats up.

Will the battle against gods, angels and creatures of the night bind them eternally—or tear them apart?

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Laura C’s review of Barefoot in the Sand by Roxanne St. Claire
Contemporary Romance published by Forever 24 Apr 12

I am a huge fan of romantic suspense, so I was devastated to hear that one of my very favorite romantic suspense authors, Roxanne St. Claire, creator of the Bullet Catchers and the Guardian Angelinos, is switching genres. Luckily, I also like contemporary, so the minute I could get my hands on this one, I did. And it doesn’t disappoint.

Lacey Armstrong is the queen of excuses. She wants to build a B&B on her grandparents’ land, but she doesn’t have the money. And why bother looking for investors when they wouldn’t want to partner with her? And why should she date anyone? They’ll only leave as soon as she pins her hopes on them the same way her daughter’s father did fourteen years earlier when she told him she was pregnant.

Which makes Clay Walker — “sorry, I don’t date, I just like sex and I’d like to have it with you, please”—just about perfect for her. Especially since he’s her polar opposite in other ways. He refuses to hear the word “can’t,” and plows his way under, through, around, or over any excuse or blockage she throws at him.

He’s also an architect and builder, which is just what she needs to transform her hurricane-devastated property in to a classy resort.

Of course, Clay has a secret. More than one, in fact, and they’re just bound to blow up in his face. Which, of course, they do. But you never think “why doesn’t he just go ahead and tell her…” St. Claire is very good at drawing you in so you don’t feel like it’s a “big misunderstanding” that’s just being used as a plot device. It’s integral to the way the characters think and act.

Not that all their problems are Clay’s fault. He’s got secrets, but Lacey’s past has returned with a vengeance…her ex, who hasn’t bothered to show up since her daughter was a year old, has had an epiphany about the importance of family and now he wants to come home and make more babies with Lacey.

Just what a girl who’s sworn off relationships needs—one man she wants but doesn’t want to love, another she wants to leave who wants to stay. And a town dead set against her plans to modernize it.

Lacey also has three “best” friends who—obviously—will have their own books as the series continues, which sometimes annoys me, but here it’s fun getting to know them. They’re all very different and they all have romantic pasts as disastrous as Lacey’s own, though she is the only one with a child to show for it.

What can I say? I can’t wait for more, and I’ll be happy to see Clay and Lacey again whenever they appear in future books set in Barefoot Bay.

Grade: A

Summary:

When all you hold dear is taken away . . .

When a hurricane roars through Lacey Armstrong’s home on the coast of Barefoot Bay, she decides all that remains in the rubble is opportunity. A new hotel is just what Mimosa Key needs, and Lacey and her teenage daughter are due for a fresh start. And nothing, especially not a hot, younger architect, is going to distract Lacey from finally making her dreams a reality.

A second chance is the only thing you have left.

Love has already cost Clay Walker everything. And if he’s going to have any chance of picking up the pieces of his life, he needs the job as Lacey Armstrong’s architect. What’s not in the plans is falling for the headstrong beauty. Her vision of the future is more appealing than anything he could have ever drafted for himself. Will Clay’s designs on Lacey’s heart be more than she can handle, or will she trust him to build something that will last forever?

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s review of The Shape of Desire (Shifting Circles Series, Book 1) by Sharon Shinn
Paranormal Romance published by ACE Hardcover 3 Apr 12

I’ve not read Sharon Shinn before, but I have friends who love her work, always say she gives you something different than the norm. So when I received this book with a shifter theme, I had to get into it. Something different? Definitely. But part of the story suffers for it.

Maria is very adept at weaving lies when it comes to the love of her life, Dante. Those lies are born of necessity. Dante is a shape-shifter; thus, secrecy is of the utmost importance to them. They’ve been together fifteen years, and Dante’s time as human has increasingly become less and less; therefore, their time together is also less. So Maria really looks forward to her time with him each month.

Never knowing what kind of animal he’ll change into whenever he shifts, Dante has no control over much of his life. His siblings also shift, as did his parents. He thinks them all abominations. He refuses to get married, have children, force his awful nature on other people, even if they can keep his secret. He has taken precautions for most any situation that may come about, always coming home to Maria when he’s able. Dante is a brooding, sexy man, quite amorous after being on his own for so long, then drawing into himself as his time comes again to depart to his next few weeks of the unknown. Other than the fact that he loves Maria, this is about all we get to know Dante, which is a little disappointing. The entire book is in Maria’s point of view, so we never really get into Dante’s head, which, I think, would have added more depth to the story, especially considering Maria’s doubts that pop up.

There have been a couple of killings in the area recently, people discovered mauled by a wild animal. Suddenly Maria begins to question herself, could it be Dante behind this. She finds that he has lied to her concerning his whereabouts when he’s able to call her during his brief shiftings. I find this a bit out of character. She’s been with this man for fifteen years, has kept his secrets, weaving her own lies to cover their life together. There’s never any reason for her to doubt Dante, only circumstantial evidence as more is discussed about the events. Maria does waffle back and forth about this issue, so you have to give her that. And when Dante does return, she’s just as happy as ever he’s home. It’s only when he’s gone that she begins her doubting. She also keeps this all from Dante. She never asks him straight up if he’s responsible.

In between Dante’s visits we follow Maria through her days, mostly at work where there’s a lot of drama with one co-worker’s domestic troubles, which eventually intersect with Maria’s life. A number of other employees are also introduced, and I’m not sure they’ll all necessary. We also meet Dante’s brother and sister, who has recently had a child, much to Dante’s dismay. It’s Maria who bonds with the child, knowing she’ll never have children of her own. There’s also a few instances where Maria flashes back over life events that now have some importance on their present situation.

We don’t get much shifting in the story until more than halfway through. After hearing about all the different animals Dante shifts into, I find it amusing he’s in dog form when finally interacting with Maria, after so many years of never allowing her to see him in any other form. But these are nice scenes and rather enjoyable, Dante’s way of protection. There is some intensity later on when the “killer” is revealed, and I do have to admit I didn’t see the who of it all coming.

After all of this, however, I still want to see things from Dante’s viewpoint. He’s the center of everything in the story, most notably Maria’s life. There are so many points throughout that would have had so much more depth to it if we’d been given Dante’s spin on things. Alas, not to be, though. I do like Ms. Schone’s voice, even if some scenes get a tad too flowery at times. I look forward to reading a few more of her books.

Grade: B

Summary:

Maria Devane has loved Dante Romano since she met him. But he’s a man with a secret: He’s a shape-shifter who spends an increasing amount of time in animal form. Or so he tells her—in the fifteen years they’ve been together, she’s never actually seen him take another shape. She tries not to wonder if that’s the truth. She tries not to think about the other reasons he might disappear for weeks at a time. But she has to start asking herself extremely hard questions when there’s a series of brutal murders in town and the most likely culprit is someone who is half animal, half human.

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Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of We’ll Always Have Paris by Jessica Hart
Contemporary Romance published by Harlequin Romance 03 Apr 12

I made the mistake of starting this book on a Monday morning.  A Monday morning where I eventually had to pull myself up out of my comfy lounge chair at home and go to my job.  My job that expected me to work the entire week.  My job that kept me from inhaling this delightful story in one sitting.  Seriously, where’s a Greek tycoon when a girl really needs one?  I’d tolerate the punishing kisses for financial security and a few hours of uninterrupted reading time every day.

Clara Sterne is a production assistant for a small production company that plans to film a documentary for the BBC called Romance: Fact or Fiction?.  The plan is to have two divergent personalities discuss the idea of romance in various romantic locales – Paris, a tropical island, and the wilds of Scotland.  They’ve already landed the female personality, a footballer’s wife who is famous for being famous.  Now they just need to land the guy – Simon Valentine.  Unfortunately, he’s proving to be a very hard sell – which would mean bad news for Clara since 1) the project will die on the vine without him and 2) she’s hoping to parlay this assignment into a promotion.

Simon is an economist who has turned into an unlikely, and unwanted, celebrity.  His passion is micro-finance and lending, and his employer is keen on publicity for the firm.  However, one appearance on a news show (think CNN) has landed him a pack of swooning female fans.  Now he’s got this ridiculous Clara person phoning him, showing up to lectures he’s giving, begging him to do this silly documentary.  How many different ways can he possibly say no?  Naturally, being a romance novel, events take place that lead Simon to saying yes.  And before you know it, they’re off to Paris to begin filming.

This story has a lot of classic romantic comedy traits that give it a very cinematic feel.  Clara is bubbly, out-going, a woman with a passion for dancing and show tunes.  Simon is the drab, straight-laced, buttoned-up guy who sees everything in black and white.  She’s romance and passion.  He’s a cold shower.  It’s the classic opposites attract storyline, yet with the twist that the opposites are actually perfect for each other.  They complement each other in every way – they just need the 180-some pages to figure it out.

There’s so much I like about this story.  The characters are likable and charming, even stick-in-the-mud Simon.  I love, love, love the fact that it isn’t love-at-first-sight for either of them.  Simon muses that Clara is not elegant and beautiful – more like a bohemian mess; and Clara cannot figure out why women are a swooning mess over….this guy?  Really? Naturally, the more time they spend together, the more their personalities come out, the more those first impressions give way to something more.

Hart pads up the conflict by including two exes – one for each character.  Simon is still smarting over the fact that the elegant colleague he was dating threw him over for a swarthy Italian playboy and Clara is still a bit stung by the fact that her former beau tossed her aside for an old flame.  Simon thinks he wants his ex back, Clara is ready to move on but unwilling to play second fiddle anymore.

There are lovely moments of insight on the part of both characters and realization dawns that they are hopelessly attracted to each other, but fearful that it could never work because they’re “too different.”  On that score, there’s a fantastic Big Romantic Gesture at the end of this book – on the part of both characters – that really ties the whole thing together.  Clara understands Simon, and Simon understand Clara.  All the while, neither one of them has to morph into pod people to make that happy ending work.  It’s charming, it’s sweet, it’s everything I want in a romance.

Grade: A

Summary:

I’ve done it! Thanks to my awesome powers of persuasion, elusive-but-dreamy TV star Simon Valentine is starring in our new romance documentary!

It wasn’t easy, though—Simon thinks his status as prime-time financial guru turned celebrity is ridiculous! He says he now steers well clear of affairs of the heart, but surely he must have one romantic bone left in his body?

Much as I’d like to find out firsthand, I’ve sworn off men after a disastrous ending with my last boyfriend. Must remain professional—though it won’t be easy…we’re filming in the most romantic city of all….

Clara x

Read an excerpt.

Veena’s review of About That Night by Julie James
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 3 Apr 12

Julie James writes contemporary romance for today’s reader. About that Night is a timeless love story with sparkling wit and the sizzling conversations that suck you into Kyle Rhodes’ and Rylann Pierce’s romance as though you were one of their circle of friends.

Kyle and Rylann come from opposite sides of the track. He is a billionaire hacker extraordinaire who hacked into and brought down Twitter in a drunken fit of rage. Forever labeled the Twitter Terrorist, he is convicted and sentenced to eighteen months in prison. She is Chicago’s newest Assistant US Attorney, and her first case is the motion hearing to reduce Kyle’s prison sentence to time served.

Rylann has an excellent reputation from her time at the San Francisco office where she worked before coming to Chicago, and dating a criminal isn’t exactly the best way to establish her credentials in her new job.  Kyle is content to avoid publicity and explore their mutual attraction, which had sparked the first time he saw her in a bar nine years ago when they were still in college. In the most romantic fashion, he spectacularly makes up for standing her up nine years ago by taking her to the same bar for cheeseburgers and fries paired with a $300 champagne.

This book is the third book in the FBI series. The author seamlessly brings in the characters from the first two books where they are pertinent to this story. I love this story as well as the previous two books. When I read and enjoyed A Lot Like Love so much, I immediately went out and bought Something About You. I have been anxiously awaiting this book and it certainly more than lives up to my expectations.

Grade: A+

Summary:

He’s playing games.

Though Rylann Pierce tried to fight the sparks she felt for billionaire heir Kyle Rhodes the night they met, their sizzling chemistry was undeniable. But after being stood up on their first date, Rylann never expected to see him again. So when she finds herself face-to-face with Kyle in a courthouse nine years later, she’s stunned. More troubling to the beautiful assistant U.S. attorney is that she’s still wildly attracted to him.

But she’s making the rules.

Just released from prison, Kyle Rhodes isn’t thrilled to be the star witness in a high-profile criminal case—but when Rylann comes knocking at his door, he finds she may be the one lawyer he can’t say no to. Still as gorgeous and sharp-tongued as ever, she lays down the law: she doesn’t mix business with pleasure. But Kyle won’t give up on something he wants—and what he wants is the one woman he’s never forgotten.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of The Witness by Nora Roberts
Contemporary Romance published by Putnam Adult 17 Apr 12

This is Nora Roberts’ 200th book. A huge milestone. A mega-huge career. Can she keep writing amazing story after amazing story after all this time?

You bet your ass she can. And does. The Witness, for me, is one of Nora Roberts’ best. The storyline is one we’ve read here and there – heroine witnesses a murder, agrees to testify, safe house is compromised, she runs for her life, hiding out from town to town to town. But what makes this book so much more than a sum of those parts is the characters.

We meet Elizabeth when she’s sixteen. She’s grown up under the thumb of a very controlling mother. The good girl, she’s always done what she’s told. Though she’s late coming into her rebellion, she finally lives up to that teenage tantrum the night before mom leaves for a conference. The poor girl just wants to wear a pair of jeans and pursue the career she wants, not the medical path in her mother’s footsteps. Taking her rebellion a step further, Elizabeth heads to the mall after her mother’s departure, really not knowing exactly what she should do there. She runs into a girl from school, they make plans to shop and later have a night out at a local club, which is owned by the Russian Mob.

After crafting fake IDs and they make it into the club, Liz is having the time of her life. She receives her first kiss from a handsome man with a Russian accent, and when it’s proposed they move the party to his cousin’s home, Liz isn’t sure she wants things to go any further. Once there, however, too much drink and excitement exacts its toll on her and while Liz is pretty much out of it worshiping the porcelain god, her world begins to fall apart. Murder, fear, panic, flight, and finally safety finish out her night but are also the beginning of a new life for Elizabeth. Despite her mother’s demanding she return home, Liz insists she must, as the only witness, testify against these men, and she’s taken to a safe house to wait until trial. Having no contact with her parent, she blooms as much as she can under the watchful eyes of two U.S. marshalls. Her seventeenth birthday starts out with gifts – fun, girly gifts she’s never received before – but ends with an ambush and Liz running for her life again, while the blame for the whole fiasco is laid at her feet.

Twelve years later, after successfully, though narrowly, hiding and avoiding the Russian Mob from state to state, city to city, identity to identity, Liz has become Abigail Lowry and finds a kind of peace in Bickford, AR, a small town nestled in the Ozark mountains. She feels as though she’s finally come home, keeps to herself in her high-tech house, her Bull Mastiff her only friend. When the police chief, Brooks Gleason, takes an interest in her, she’s not sure what to do with the man when he never takes no for an answer and charmingly pushes his way into her life.

What makes Abigail such a terrific heroine is you still plainly see her lack of socialization and friends, though she’s been separated from her mother for so many years. She’s direct and blunt; says what she means, means what she says. She’s very intelligent, a computer hacker, software guru, crack shot, and socially inept. But none of that even comes close to scaring Brooks off. Abigail fascinates him. She’s a walking contradiction every time he interacts with her. His slow and easy way is quite misleading with his sharp mind and wit always alert. Their banter throughout the book, from tense and fun early on to loose and sensual later, pulls the reader further and further into their relationship, learning more about them in every scene, while a good time is had by all involved.

Nora Roberts is a master at creating family on the page. What’s so much fun this time around is it’s our hero who has the loving family and has flourished because of it. Brooks gets his respectful and easy-going attitude from his hippie parents, who still hold to their ’60s beliefs, though not as tightly as in those early years. That’s what makes them so much fun. The entire family is unique, and I, for one, would flourish, too, to be a part of their love, loyalty, and generosity. Brooks is a man with all of the very best of that family wrapped into one handsome package. Abigail, at first, doesn’t know what to do with them. And that’s what makes reading her scenes so entertaining. She’s definitely out of her depth, but because of her draw to Brooks, she eventually goes with the flow when they come streaming through the door and then embraces them as fully as the reader does.

Once Abigail learns to trust Brooks, more fun is on the way. This time we get to see Abigail in action, using her intellect her and technology skills to the max. Brooks has told her all along they’ll beat whatever it is she’s hiding, but he doesn’t even dream half of what she’s gone through. It doesn’t daunt him all that much when he finally finds out, however. They work together beautifully.

With 200 books under her belt, it’s more than amazing that Ms. Roberts still comes up with intriguing storylines and charming characters. Brooks has come very close to eclipsing the Quinn brothers as my favorite Roberts hero. I know I’m looking forward to her next 200 books.

Grade:  A+

Summary:

Daughter of a controlling mother, Elizabeth finally let loose one night, drinking at a nightclub and allowing a strange man’s seductive Russian accent lure her to a house on Lake Shore Drive. The events that followed changed her life forever.

Twelve years later, the woman known as Abigail Lowery lives on the outskirts of a small town in the Ozarks. A freelance programmer, she designs sophisticated security  systems—and supplements her own security with a fierce dog and an assortment of firearms. She keeps to herself, saying little, revealing nothing. But Abigail’s reserve only intrigues police chief Brooks Gleason. Her logical mind, her secretive nature, and her unromantic viewpoints leave him fascinated but frustrated. He suspects that Abigail needs protection from something—and that her elaborate defenses hide a story that must be revealed.

Read an excerpt.

C2’s review of Skies of Fire (Ether Chronicles, Book 1) by Zoe Archer
Steampunk Romance published by Avon Impulse 17 Apr 12

Do you like larger-than-life heroes and stealthy lady spies?  Airships? Explosions?  Zoe Archer’s latest book – and new series kick-off – might be just what you’re looking for.

Skies of Fire sweeps us away to a slightly different version of 19th century Europe than we’re used to.  England is at war with the evil Hapsburgs and not only do ships patrol the seas but airships patrol the skies.  The airships are under the command of Man O’ Wars – mentally, physically powerful men who have metal implants that make them more…stronger, faster, more aggressive, sharper sense, even physically bigger.  The Man O’ Wars have a symbiotic relationship with their airships – the metal implants generate energy that the ship collects and uses for power.

Captain Christopher Redmond is a Man O’ War and commander of the HMS Demeter.  After a run-in with the enemy fleet, Christopher manages to get his ship and crew to safety and finds something unexpected – a British distress signal flashing from a barn deep in enemy territory. The last person he expects to find is the woman who left him without a word three years earlier.

Louisa Shaw is a Naval Intelligence operative.  She has been working deep in Hapsburg territory looking for a new munitions plant she heard rumors about.  If Louisa can find and destroy the plant before it starts mass production, countless lives will be saved.  The last person she expects to have to look to for assistance is the man she ran out on in the middle of the night years before.

Will Christopher and Louisa find the hidden plant?  Will they be able to destroy it and escape with their lives?  And will they be able to move past the issues that drove them apart last time or are they doomed to live separate lives forever?

Talk about a roller coaster ride, faithful reader!  The story starts and doesn’t slow down – and it is full of twists and turns along the way. The world Ms. Archer is building is fascinating and has lots of little throw-away details that make it seem very real.  Plus, we get lots of explanations that are woven nicely into the story so it doesn’t feel like info-dump.  Christopher is lovely – a true hero, even.  As in, he’s won battles and stuff.  :-D  Plus, he is a genuinely good man, dedicated to serving his country (and dedicated to Louisa, if she agrees).  And Louisa is kick-ass!  A smart, independent, competent heroine that doesn’t try to be masculine but doesn’t use feminine wiles, either – those are hard to find sometimes.  Louisa is good at what she does and knows it and she is as dedicated to serving her country as Christopher.

If you’ve never tried steampunk romance, I highly recommend checking out Skies of Fire.  It is fast paced and engaging and fun with characters that jump off the page.  And the next book in the series is set in the American west and was written by Ms. Archer’s husband, Nico Rossi.  I can’t wait!

Grade: A

Summary:Man made of metal and flesh

Captain Christopher Redmond has just one weakness: the alluring spy who loved and left him years before…when he was still just a man. Now he’s superhuman—a Man O’ War, made as part of the British Navy’s weapons program—and his responsibility is to protect the skies of Europe. If only he could forget Louisa Shaw.

A most inconvenient desire

Louisa, a British Naval Intelligence agent, has never left a job undone. But when her assignment is compromised, the one man who can help her complete her mission is also the only man ever to tempt her body and heart. As burning skies loom and passion ignites, Louisa and Christopher must slip behind enemy lines if they are to deliver a devastating strike against their foe . . . and still get out alive.

Read an excerpt.

Veena’s review of The Duke’s Perfect Wife (Highland Pleasures, Book 4) by Jennifer Ashley
Historical Romance published by Berkley 3 Apr 12

The Duke’s Perfect Wife, fourth in the Highland Pleasures series from Jennifer Ashley, continues the Mackenzie brothers’ stories with Hart Mackenzie. Duke of Kilmorgan, envied for his wealth, power, connections and good looks, Hart has it all. Hart’s glittering facade hides the pain of his difficult childhood, his sense of failure for not having saved his infant son who died in his arms, and his loss of the only woman he’s ever truly loved.

Eleanor Ramsay is a perfect fit for the ten-point criteria that Hart’s family developed for his perfect wife.  Family, close friends, and loyal retainers have a betting pool going on whether the two will get it together and move in the right direction and then if they will ultimately make it to the altar, since Eleanor was engaged to Hart once and broke it off.

Before Hart can  manipulate circumstances to bring Eleanor into his life, fate, in the form of a package of photographs, takes a hand and she arrives on his doorstep. This is an intense love story between two protagonists who have loved each other for a long time and yet have been kept apart by their fear and pride. Their journey, particularly Hart’s, is extremely moving and his final realization that love triumphs and that material wealth is worthless against Eleanor’s acceptance of him as he is.

The love story is set amidst an interesting backdrop of changing times with running water, trains, cameras, and telegraphs cheek by jowl with the traditional horse-drawn carriages and class distinctions. The seedy side of an aristocratic life with mistresses and houses of pleasure, elements of bondage and domination are explored with a light but clear touch. The political scene and the seeds of what will become a large issue for Britain in the future with the Irish and the associated violence are superbly drawn into the story.

This is my first book by Jennifer Ashley. She reaches out and sweeps the reader into the story. I laughed, I cried, I rejoiced, and celebrated with Eleanor and Hart. I loved meeting the other Mackenzie brothers and their spouses and families. I plan to read all the stories that went before and will definitely continue to read the stories that come after.

Grade: A

See Sandy M’s review here.

Summary:

Who is Hart Mackenzie’s perfect match? Eleanor Ramsay doesn’t know–she jilted him all those years ago–and now all she wants from the devastating duke is a job. Or so she tells herself. Persuading him to hire her as an assistant to his secretary is tricky, but Eleanor has a trick or two of her own up her sleeve…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

The Seduction of Elliot McBride – January 2013
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie (tentative title) – October 2013

Veena’s review of Spellbound Falls (Spellbound Falls Series, Book 1) by Janet Chapman
Paranormal Romance published by Jove 28 Feb 12

“I’ll move heaven and earth and any mountains that get in my way” is a promise that Olivia Baldwin has waited years to see fulfilled. Janet Chapman continues her love story with Maine in Spellbound Falls, home to Olivia and her eight-year-old daughter Sophie. Olivia’s quiet world is rocked by the arrival of “supernatural agent of human affairs” wizard Mac Oceanus and his newly discovered six-year-old son Henry.

Suddenly car doors, seat belts, and jacket zippers seem to have a mind of their own, albatrosses walk the highway far from their natural habitat, and people arrive on snowflakes and thunder claps, and the small town of Spellbound Falls will never be the same again. Lonely Olivia and Mac connect instantly and their love story, aided and abetted by their two children, moves forward at a good pace.

This is a sweet, heartwarming story of new beginnings and a second chance at love. One clearly sees how the good wins out over the bad and the ugly in families and relationships. I wanted to cheer as Olivia journeys from the shadows of despair and abandonment into the light of love and family. One can totally relate with Mac as he understands, through his own bonding with his son Henry, the path to understanding and reconnecting with his parents, particularly his father.

This is my first book by Janet Chapman and while I did not understand all the references to incidents and characters from other books, they did not necessarily take away from my enjoyment of this book. I think every woman wants a man to move mountains and rock her world, as Mac does in more ways than one, to prove his love to Olivia. I am definitely looking forward to Olivia’s friend Peg’s story up next.

Grade: A

Summary:

A newcomer to Spellbound Falls, Maine, Maximilian Oceanus is trying to get a handle on fatherhood. But his newly discovered six-year-old son wants to find his father a wife. Too bad Olivia Baldwin wants nothing to do with the dangerously seductive Mac–especially with all the weird stuff happening all around him…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of Oracle’s Moon (Elder Races, Book 4) by Thea Harrison
Paranormal Romance published by Berkley 6 Mar 12

What happens when humans and witches clash with the Elder Races?  And what happens to those caught in the crossfire?  Thea Harrison’s latest Elder Races novel, Oracle’s Moon, shows us.

Oracle’s Moon picks up almost exactly where Serpent’s Kiss left off and a lot of events from that book are referenced throughout. So, really, you should read Serpent’s Kiss first.  Do it, faithful reader!  You’ll be glad you did.

Grace Andreas only recently inherited the Power of the Oracle and became Oracle of Louisville.  Her sister, Petra, was the previous Oracle, but after she and her husband were killed (and Grace severely injured) in a car accident, the Power transferred to Grace.  In addition to her new Power, Grace also has gained custody of her very young niece and nephew – plus she is still recuperating from her injuries.  Until recently, all Grace has been concerned with was college.

During the events at the end of Serpent’s Kiss, Grace attracted the attention of Khalil, one of the Demonkind and a Prince of the Djinn.  Khalil is a Powerful, ancient being.  Djinn are creatures of the air (?????) and do not even have a solid permanent form – instead they can take whatever form they like, depending on the situation.  Khalil has never been particularly interested in humans, with their short, small lives, but something about Grace and the small ones living with her intrigues him.

Djinn spend a lot of time gathering favors and making bargains with others – almost everything involves a bargain of some sort. At first the bargaining back and forth is fun but, soon enough, Grace finds it annoying and refuses to bargain anymore. Khalil is flabbergasted. LOL

As Grace tries to settle into her role as Oracle, suspicious things start happening – small, at first, and then increasingly odd.  As she and Khalil try to unravel things, a deadly conspiracy is uncovered…a conspiracy that affects not just Grace but the Elder Races and their relationship with humans, as well.  Will Grace and Khalil get to the bottom of things before everything falls apart?

Sometimes, after a strong start, a paranormal series will stall out…like it gets hemmed in by its own world-building.  That is not the case with Ms. Harrison’s Elder Races books.  I love this series.  The world becomes more familiar with each entry, but there is something new each time, as well.  With each book, we see the world from a different angle.  This time we learn more about the humans and witches – where they fall in the grand scheme of things and how they feel about their place in the world.

Grace is a lovely heroine – she is doing the best she can in a bad situation she had little preparation for and with very little support until Khalil comes along. Khalil’s help allows Grace to embrace her Power (which will play a significant role in later books, I suspect – very mysterious business, Grace’s Power) in ways she would not have been able to, otherwise.  And Khalil is an excellent hero.  It is so fun to watch him experience all the wackiness of the human world and fall in love with Grace (and the kids).  It isn’t that he becomes more human, exactly, but, over the course of the book, he definitely becomes more.

If you are looking for a fun read that brings together two very different people and has them take on the world around them, look no further.  Oracle’s Moon is for you!  And, really, faithful reader, if you haven’t read the rest of the series, you so should.

Grade: A

Summary:As a second daughter, Grace Andreas never had to worry about the intrigues of the Elder Races. But when her sister, Petra, and Petra’s husband are both killed, Grace inherits the Power and responsibilities of the Oracle of Louisville, as well as her sister’s two young children – neither of which she is prepared for.

Yet, she is not alone. Khalil, Demonkind and Djinn prince of House Marid – driven by his genuine caring for the children – has decided to make himself a part of the household both as their guardian and as an exasperating counterpoint to Grace’s impudence toward the Elder Races.

But when an attempt is made on Grace’s life, she realizes that Khalil is the only one who can protect her – and offer her more than a mortal man…

No excerpt available at time of review (website is updating).

Other books in the series:

Sandy M’s review of A SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing (Werewolf Series, Book 9) by Terry Spear
Paranormal Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 6 Mar 12

It’s been a while since I’ve read a shifter story. When that happens, I figure it’s time to pick up a Terry Spear book. Time after time she delivers, giving paranormal fans plenty of wolves, plenty of action, plenty of mystery, and, of course, love and romance aplenty.

Meara is taking advantage of her brother’s absence. The pack alpha is on his honeymoon, so the time is right for Meara to do a little mate hunting. Taking care of the cabin rentals where their pack has relocated on the Oregon coast, she’s scheduled a number of alpha wolves to take some R&R or do a bit of business while she checks them out and they hopefully reciprocate. You have to give the woman props. She thinks ahead as well as on her feet. Her plans are interrupted just as the first guest arrives, and she is not a happy camper. Seems she’s traded one alpha wolf for another, the kind who like to tell her what to do all the damn time!

Knowing Hunter, his mission partner and Meara’s brother, would want him to take care of the impulsive she-wolf while he’s out of town, Finn – once a SEAL, always a SEAL – takes it upon himself to protect Meara when he learns of a threat against their team. It’s possible this unknown threat can get to Hunter through his loved ones, Meara being the first on the last after his wife. So Finn begins to set up cameras and listening devices in Meara’s cabin to keep tabs on her. And on the men he discovers she’s invited to her find-a-mate party. Keeping the woman under control is going to try his patience, he knows. But he’s quickly learning Meara deserves admiration and respect, and he’s determined to keep his distance.

However, things go wrong from the beginning. Once a dead body is found not too far away from Meara’s place, they learn the first visitor of the week is not who he says he is. So Finn knows he’s done the right thing by sticking close to Meara. Now he’s ready to drag her away to a safe house which offers more protection and will hopefully make his job easier. Getting Meara to agree is the only problem. She surprises him, though, and after only a little bit of grumbling and hassle, she docilely – well, as docile as Meara can be anyway – accompanies Finn to their destination.

What makes this book so much fun is watching Finn try so very hard to keep his hands off Meara. Of course, he doesn’t stand a chance. She riles him up something fierce, a state no other woman has caused in him Once she leaves her idea that Finn wouldn’t make a good mate behind, things really begin to pick up between them. Talk about sexy, sizzling, and sensual. Each time they come together, more barriers fall. Finn finds that perhaps settling down won’t be all that bad for a guy like him. Meara discovers having someone to pamper her and take care of her doesn’t make her weak and it feels oh-so-good.

One of the best things about Ms. Spear’s shifter stories is the actual shifting from human to wolf. She’s not stingy with these scenes and they’re always enjoyable. You can tell she’s done her research concerning wolves and packs. From Finn and Meara running through the forest to the intense fight scene near the end of the book, every one of these scenes is well done. The shifting is one of the major reasons I come back to her books again and again. Those alpha wolves are another.

Grade: A

Summary:

Meara Greymere is in charge of the cabin rentals on the rugged Oregon coastline, so her brother and his mate could take a delayed honeymoon. But while Hunter is away, the she-wolf intends to play—she just has to convince the right alpha male to rent one of the cabins, and she’ll take it from there. But when Finn Emerson arrives with every intention of pretending to be her lover, she’s not going to take this lying down. She knows he’ll tell her brother what she’s up to and put an end to her game.

Finn Emerson is a Navy SEAL, formerly one of Hunter Greymere’s team members, and now he’s trying to track down a gray wolf, who’s already made an attempt on one of their team member’s lives. Finn believes Hunter will be targeted next, only to discover Hunter is off with his mate on a honeymoon, and he fears Hunter’s sister is in grave danger. But the SEAL soon learns protecting the unpredictable sexy she-wolf is a mission and a half and protecting her isn’t all he wants to do.

Read an excerpt. (click Excerpt tab)

Other books in this series:

Veena’s review of The Saint (Highland Guard, Book 5) by Monica McCarty
Historical Romance published by Ballantine 27 Mar 12

Monica McCarty continues her series of passion and intrigue in fourteenth century Scotland with The Saint, fifth book in her Highland Guard series. The Highland Guard is a secret band of elite warriors who fight for Robert the Bruce in his quest for an independent Scotland. One by one warriors in the Highland Guard snatch opportunities for love and happiness in the midst of blood and gore. Now is a time of rare calm and second chances.

Magnus Mackay has a will forged from steel and remains cool and calm under the most difficult circumstances and, above all, avoids women, earning him the moniker of the Saint.  Unbeknownst to his friends, his celibacy hides a broken heart from the loss of his beloved Helen, wife to his best friend and fellow guardsman William Gordon, also known as the Templar.

In true Romeo and Juliet fashion, the lovers are separated by well-meaning family and the threat of clan war. Eighteen-year-old Helen Sutherland, daughter of one of the Mackay’s bitterest enemies, gave in to her own fears and family pressure to reject Magnus and marry William.  As treachery stalks and violence escalates the newly widowed Helen, she is determined to win back her love and live life on her own terms.

Helen is one of the most likeable heroines in the series. She does not readily fit into the mold of a noble woman of her times and her journey to find herself and to reach for what she wants make me want to cheer. Even as Magnus fights his love for Helen, he displays a rare understanding and tenderness as he creates opportunities that support Helen’s journey in finding herself.

Intertwined within the primary part of this book is the strong secondary story of Helen’s brother William and her friend Muriel. William’s journey and the satisfactory conclusion to this love story is very moving. Both William and Magnus struggle with duty and social norms and their need for love and happiness. It’s heartwarming to see true love conquer all, even though I’m sometimes a bit impatient with all the angst.

Monica McCarty has the rare talent to successfully blend the rich history of the times with her love stories. I have read all the books in the series and have enjoyed each one of them and anxiously await the next one.

Grade: A

Summary:

Magnus MacKay is the ultimate Highlander: tough, proud, able to master any terrain, and best even the most ferocious enemy. Called “Saint” for his refusal to discuss women, as well as for his cool and steady leadership, Magnus’s war name hides a far more painful truth. It isn’t virtue or piety that keeps him silent, but a wound of love and loss that cuts so deep he cannot bear to speak of it. But when the woman who refused him is betrothed to his friend and fellow Guardsman, Magnus is tested by love’s battle cry.

A wild and innocent beauty, Helen chose family duty over her desire for Magnus. Now the anger in his eyes mirrors the tormented regret of her heart. But as deadly subterfuge stalks the King and his Guard, Helen vows to right her youthful mistakes with a woman’s determined spirit. Still, Magnus harbors secrets and an iron will not to weaken to temptation—or heartache—again. But as danger looms, it’s not the kiss of a saint, but a sinner, that can save them.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of The Duke’s Perfect Wife (Highland Pleasures, Book 4) by Jennifer Ashley
Historical Romance published by Berkley 3 Apr 12

It’s so good to be reading these Mackenzie Highlanders again. I’ve been curious about Eleanor Ramsay, the woman who walked away from Hart years ago. I’m also surprised Hart didn’t just go get her and drag her home with him. But, as usual, Jennifer Ashley works it all out in a romantic mystery that held me captivated for the day it took me to read this book.

Hart has been thinking of making his way back to Eleanor, knowing she’s the woman he’s going to marry. Despite the fact it didn’t work out between them before. Then when she emerges from a crowd of journalists trailing Hart in his campaign for Prime Minister, his quest becomes easier once he learns why she’s sought him out.

Her scheme will help both Hart and herself, along with her father. Eleanor recently received a photograph of Hart – posing playfully and sinfully for the camera in the nude. She knows this will hurt his chances of obtaining office if it were to become public, so her solution is to help him find the person responsible, thus her offer to work for him to investigate before it’s too late. The money will also come in handy to keep food on the table at home.

Thinking the best way to show her they can have a life together is to keep her close, give her everything she wants, Hart relents and hires her to investigate while he continues his campaign. And Hart is one serious politician. He wouldn’t get away nowadays with the things he does, of course, but in a time when you did whatever you could to see something done, he does exactly that. Eleanor is not a bad little investigator. She follows all clues she finds and has a sharp mind and wit to do the job. She wants to search the house where Hart kept his mistress at one time, where murder nearly cost him his brother, and where he wants Eleanor to stay far away from. He doesn’t want her to know anything about that part of his past.

Eleanor, however, doesn’t let Hart run roughshod over her, as he does with practically everyone in his life. She knows he has to control everything and everyone, it’s all he’s ever known, but she stands up to him at every turn, and those scenes are just wonderful. And Hart loves it too. Turns him on! We find out more of what happened between them when Eleanor broke their engagement, when she was visited by Mrs. Palmer, the aforementioned mistress, and how she’s gone on with her life, all the while keeping tabs on Hart, including his marriage and then the deaths of his wife and infant son. Through Hart we relive their original meeting and courtship, see their love as it began, knowing all the while that love never ended though they’ve been apart for years.

Reliving the worst time in Hart’s life, losing his son, is heart rending, and the scene with him and Eleanor at the boy’s grave is one of those that lets you see inside this complex man. You see the despair and the hurt. And Eleanor sees it too, realizes at last that Hart really does need her. She’s the one person he doesn’t hide from, he shows her, very emotionally, how much need is inside him. It’s nice to see this part of him, because that dark side we’ve been hearing about, what he doesn’t want Eleanor to know, has to come out. I debated with myself how much of that I wanted to see. In the end, however, Ms. Ashley keeps it fairly tame, especially considering how often it’s spoken of throughout the book.

The mystery of the photographs is finally solved, a culprit I didn’t see coming. Not what I expected at all. It’s also wonderful to see all the Mackenzie brothers and their families again. Especially Ian. He still holds my heart. It’s terrific to see how he’s come alive being in love and having Beth in his life. Hart’s and Eleanor’s banter throughout, especially when she runs on and on, is fun. The camera scenes talked about and finally in deed are also quite amusing. So much more happens, I’m only skimming the surface here. You definitely need to read this one.

As expected, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I’m glad there’s two more books planned for the future. I’m really looking forward to Daniel’s story. Hmmm. Like father, like son?

Grade: A

Summary:

Who is Hart Mackenzie’s perfect match? Eleanor Ramsay doesn’t know–she jilted him all those years ago–and now all she wants from the devastating duke is a job. Or so she tells herself. Persuading him to hire her as an assistant to his secretary is tricky, but Eleanor has a trick or two of her own up her sleeve…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

The Seduction of Elliot McBride – January 2013
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie (tentative title) – October 2013

Dinca’s review of Texas Pride (Night Riders, Book 6) by Leigh Greenwood
Historical Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 6 Mar 12

You can’t beat an historical Texas romance by Leigh Greenwood. He writes of Texas like no other author. I have read all the Night Rider series and enjoyed every one.

After the death of their parents, Carla and Danny Reese inherited the family ranch.  Carla is beside herself after finding Danny lost his half in a poker game. To make matters worse, some guy shows up claiming to be a Polish prince in exile and after a year he will sell his half of the ranch the gambler contracted to him and return to Poland.

Ivan Nikolai only wants to return to his homeland where he belongs. To do that he has to regain his fortune, since the Russians have taken control of his country. A way to do this is to accept the offer of his most detested enemy, Laveau di Viere. All he has to do is watch over half of a ranch that di Viere won in a poker game. After a year, half of the ranch will be his to sell and then he’ll be able return to Poland.

Carla Reese does not like having Ivan Nikolai on her ranch, even if he isn’t the one who stole it from her brother. He’s still a smooth-talking, handsome man with a killer smile that can turn any female to mush, regardless of her age. No matter how hard she tries, she finds she’s not immune.

Ivan has a way about him that is very diplomatic and people flock to his unassuming and kind manner. He helps the townspeople any way he can while assisting on the ranch.

As usual, in Leigh Greenwood’s stories the attraction between the heroine and hero grows slow and steady. I find myself waiting and waiting for it and then…wham! There it is and you hang onto every sweet and enduring moment. Of course, disaster comes and blows their love apart and you work through the mess to get it all back together again.  As I said at the beginning of this review – and it bears repeating – I have read every one of the Night Riders romances and have enjoyed every last one of them.

Grade: A

Summary:

Carla Reece had never met anyone more infuriating in her life. The blond giant who swaggered up to her door had no right to take over half her ranch — no matter how stupid her brother had been gambling it away in a high-stakes poker game. Her new foreman claimed to be some foreign royalty who promised to leave in a year. .Still, a year was way too long to spend with a man who made her madder than a wet hen and weak in the knees all at the same time.

Ivan may have charmed everyone in town into thinking he was the perfect gentleman, but Carl knew better. There had to be a chink in his armor — a red-not passion under that calm, cool gaze. But once she finds it, she may be in for more than she ever bargained for.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Veena’s review of Fair Game (Alpha and Omega Series, Book 3) by Patricia Briggs
Paranormal Romance published by Ace 6 Mar 12

Fae, werewolves, witches, and vampires (not sure if they’re out) have revealed themselves to the human population of the world. It is now “Fair Game” for a serial killer to target werewolves. This urban fantasy by Patricia Briggs brings in Charles and Anna from the Alpha and Omega series of adventures as expert consultants to the FBI to help solve these murders.

Charles is second to Bran Cornick, Marrok (supreme alpha) over all the werewolf packs in North America. He is soul sick with guilt due to the number of wolves he has had to kill recently to enforce the pack laws. In order to give Charles some breathing room, he goes ostensibly as Anna’s bodyguard to help hunt the serial killer who is targeting werewolves.

Ably assisted by the local wolf alpha, the FBI, a Fae lord, and a witch, Charles and Anna work against the clock to find the latest victim, the fae lord’s daughter, who is in the hands of the serial killer. The suspense is masterful and the story moves at a very good clip toward a stunning conclusion.

Woven masterfully through the chain of events leading to solving the mystery and finding the serial killer is the relationship between Charles and Anna as they find their way toward dealing with the darkness in Charles and strengthening their relationship.

I believe this is one of Patricia Briggs’ best written books, certainly the best in the Alpha and Omega series. She delicately reminds readers of the links with the Mercy Thompson series by referring to events in her last book River Marked and also to the relationship between Bran, Adam, Mercedes, Charles and Anna. The world is certainly poised for great change at the end, so it will be interesting to see where she takes both series next. In the words of the author, “Changing times, as Coyote might say, lead to interesting adventures.”

Grade: A

Summary:

They say opposites attract. And in the case of werewolves Anna Latham and Charles Cornick, they mate. The son-and enforcer-of the leader of the North American werewolves, Charles is a dominant alpha. While Anna, an omega, has the rare ability to calm others of her kind.

Now that the werewolves have revealed themselves to humans, they can’t afford any bad publicity. Infractions that could have been overlooked in the past must now be punished, and the strain of doing his father’s dirty work is taking a toll on Charles.

Nevertheless, Charles and Anna are sent to Boston, when the FBI requests the pack’s help on a local serial killer case. They quickly realize that not only the last two victims were werewolves-all of them were. Someone is targeting their kind. And now Anna and Charles have put themselves right in the killer’s sights…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of A Week to be Wicked (Spindle Cove, Book 2) by Tessa Dare
Historical Romance published by Avon 27 Mar 12

What do an insomniac viscount, a bluestocking geologist, and a dinosaur named Francine all have in common?  In Tessa Dare’s newest Spindle Cove book, we find out.

Colin Sandhurst, Lord Payne, is not a good sleeper.  Ever since a childhood trauma, he has been plagued by nightmares.  The only thing that helps him get a good night’s sleep is company in bed – a practice he has embraced with vigor.  Heh.  Colin is in Spindle Cove to assist his cousin, the commander of the local militia, while he waits for his inheritance.  The funds won’t release until his next birthday OR until he marries – so he is living in the country.  Waiting.

Miss Minerva Highwood is a bluestocking.  She is much more interested in science than in flirting with the locals in Spindle Cove.  She and her family came to the area because her sister Diana’s health needed improving and taking in the sea air was recommended.  Diana, it seems, caught the eye of the dashing Lord Payne, but Minerva does not approve of him – especially for her sister.  He is a flirt and a rake and a scoundrel – and he can’t even be bothered to remember Minerva’s name!  But Minerva needs his help…

Minerva is a geologist.  Since she came to Spindle Cove, she has been studying the fossils along the coast.  When she found an exceptionally well-preserved footprint of a very large lizard (in a hidden cave, no less), she knew it could change the way science looked at the past.  So she needs to get to a symposium in Edinburgh to present her findings.  However, she realizes she would never actually be able to speak before the attendees, because she’s a woman.  But the most important thing to Minerva is getting the information out to the people who need to know, so she needs someone to help her get to Scotland and present her paper for her.  Since she knows Colin is short of funds, she figures she can bribe him.  Colin proves less bribe-able than Minerva thinks, but, after he sees she is going to Edinburgh with or without him, he agrees to accompany her.  His one condition – she has to share his bed.

I tend to enjoy on-the-road books and this one is not an exception. All the forced intimacies and close quarters – no chaperones! – lead to all sorts of interesting developments.  Poor Colin and Minerva had the road trip from hell – pretty much everything that could go wrong did, but they keep trying.  Long after most people would have given up and gone home, Colin wants to Get Minerva to Edinburgh.  So sweet! (And he finally remembers her name, too.)

I haven’t read the first Spindle Cove book, yet (darn it).  I plan to, because I have so enjoyed those I have read.  So, yes, this book stands alone pretty well, I think.  I didn’t feel lost or like I was missing out on subtext because I didn’t know the backstory.  If you are looking for a sweet, fun read filled with on-the-road adventures (and science!), I urge you to check out A Week to be Wicked.  I’ve never read a Tessa Dare book I didn’t thoroughly enjoy.  If you haven’t tried her books, this is an excellent one to test out and get a flavor of her writing. Like I said about Colin, it’s so sweet.

Grade: A

Summary:

When a devilish lord and a bluestocking set off on the road to ruin…
Time is not on their side.

Minerva Highwood, one of Spindle Cove’s confirmed spinsters, needs to be in Scotland.
Colin Sandhurst, Lord Payne, a rake of the first order, needs to be… anywhere but Spindle Cove.

These unlikely partners have one week
to fake an elopement
to convince family and friends they’re in “love”
to outrun armed robbers
to survive their worst nightmares
to travel four hundred miles without killing each other
All while sharing a very small carriage by day and an even smaller bed by night.

What they don’t have time for is their growing attraction. Much less wild passion. And heaven forbid they spend precious hours baring their hearts and souls.

Suddenly one week seems like exactly enough time to find a world of trouble.
And maybe…just maybe…love.

Read an excerpt (scroll down).

Other books in the series:

Sandy M’s review of The Cowboy Takes a Bride by Lori Wilde
Contemporary Western Romance published by Avon 27 Mar 12

What a delightful book this is. It’s also my first Lori Wilde read, and the fact she writes sexy, sensual, and fun cowboys makes it that much more enjoyable.

The opening scene sets the tone for the book, and what a riot it is. Mariah Callahan has made her way to Jubilee, Texas, to find out what her recently deceased father has left her in his will. Her plan is to get rid of it all and then hightail back to her life in Chicago. A life that has fallen apart and needs desperate mending. When her boss should have backed her up during a sexual harassment incident, she fired Mariah instead. So now Mariah hopes to make her dream of opening her own wedding planning business finally come true. But first she has to deal with the backlash of a father who loved his cutting horses more than he ever loved his daughter.

When she arrives at the ranch, she finds a cowboy – one good-looking, sexy thing – naked in a horse trough. How to take care of this situation? And the banter between them is just hilarious. I think this is the earliest I’ve ever laughed out loud reading a book. Joe is expecting Mariah. This is the daughter who didn’t give a shit about his best friend, her dad. Joe has gone through horrible loss in the last few years, including losing Dutch just weeks before. Thus his bender of last night, ending with his “bath” in that gold-plated trough. I have to share part of that conversation with you.

“I’m calling the cops,” she threatened, pulling her cell phone from her purse.

“Are you always this friendly?”

“Whenever I find a naked cowboy in my gold-plated horse trough I am. I’m pretty sure there’s laws against public nudity, even in this backwater place.”

“First off, I’m not naked,” he said.

She couldn’t stop herself from raking a gaze over his amazing body. “You look naked.”

“Appearances can be deceiving. For instance, you look stuck-up.”

“Sometimes appearances can be deceiving, but on the whole, I’ve found that generally what you see is what you get.”

“So you’re saying you are stuck-up?”

“I’m saying you look like a drunken derelict.”

“Hungover derelict,” he corrected. “I’m not drunk anymore.”

“Excuse me for missing the distinction. I’m sure your mother is so proud.”

“I have underwear on,” he offered.

“How comforting.” As if a little strip of soaking wet cotton cloth hid anything. Why she should find that even more tantalizing than full nudity, she had no clue, but she did.

And that bothered her, a lot.

“Secondly, this isn’t public,” the cowboy continued. It’s private property.”

“I know,” she said. Had she driven down a rabbit hole when she wasn’t looking and ended up in Wonderland? She half expected to see the White Rabbit pop up at any moment, muttering about being late. “My property.”

“Thirdly, it’s not your horse trough.” Her finger hovered over the keypad. Should she call the cops? By challenging him, was she making things worse? Maybe she should just walk away and let him get out of the horse trough at his own pace…

There’s some banter about the sheriff’s deputy just pulling up being a woman, and then they get back to the fact Mariah is upset because he’s in her horse trough, they’ve come full circle.

“It’s not your horse trough.”

“It is.”

“Nope, because it’s not your ranch.”

“It is and I can prove it.”

“It’s not and here’s the reason why. My name is Joe Daniels, this here is Green Ridge Ranch, and I have a sneaking suspicion you’re looking for Stone Creek.”

I actually should have stopped this scene after the appearances can be deceiving part, because that’s where I laughed the hardest, but until their relationship moves to the next level because of the heat between them, this all is the fun to be had whenever Joe and Mariah are together. Even after the tide turns for them, the banter turns too, becomes even more fun and intimate.

Mariah’s plans change a few times during her stay in Jubilee. First she wants out as fast as she can. She agrees to wait, though, a few months, until Christmas, when Joe enters his cutting horse in the local futurity. He knows he’ll win and he can pay her for the property. The amazing horse came from Dutch, in exchange for the Stone Creek Ranch. Then the longer Mariah stays, the more she gets to know the people, which you can’t help but do in small-town America, she begins to think maybe this life could be for her. Maybe her wedding planning business could work here. When she meets a couple of people to push her in that direction, she talks to the bank and gets her hopes up. But they’re dashed quite quickly when her history is revealed.

But this is where her relationship with Joe with becomes truly cemented in love. He offers to bring his men over to build her wedding chapel for her. And they get it built in no time. Mariah sees her dream coming to life before her eyes. Her barn is transformed into a reception hall. She even has a wedding to plan, and all goes off without a hitch. She’s well on her way now.

Interspersed in all of this is Joe’s feelings for his deceased wife. Theirs was a wild albeit short relationship, and he’s missed Becca terribly since her accident. The town also loved her to death. So every time Mariah comes up against Becca in Joe’s life, she takes a step back. Joe’s not ready for another relationship. There’s too much guilt, too much left-over love to deal with. He has to learn to let go, but when he tries it never works.

And there’s Mariah’s feelings for her father. The father she never really knew because he loved his horses more than he loved her. The father who left her and her mother behind years ago, who embarrassed her, who left her his ranch. At first she doesn’t understand how the people of Jubilee could love the man so much, but as she learns more about him, sees inside his heart, she begins to discover the person he was, and she’s sorry she missed knowing that man.

When disaster strikes, it strikes with a heavy hand. Both Joe and Mariah are hit, but it’s Mariah who loses the most. Which helps her make her decision to flee Jubilee in the end, along with other factors, of course.

We also get a side story with Joe’s sister-in-law, Ila, who has been in love with Joe for years, and Cordy, Joe’s right-hand man. Ila hasn’t given Cordy a second look because he’s shorter than she is, but he’s done with her ignoring him. He pulls out all the stops and makes her sit up and take notice, while also getting her to let Joe go. They’re a lot of fun.

The one thing I don’t like that much in the book are the parallels to Sleepless in Seattle. The references to it to help Joe with his feelings about being a widower are fine, but then it goes a little too far with the call-in show and all that follows, just like the movie. It really isn’t needed. The author does fine on her own, and I feel she would have kept doing fine with a true, straight course as she’d been doing all along. But all’s well that ends well, as they say.

This is a fun and funny read. The characters are charming, the folks next door, people you’d like to know. I like the slow-growing love between Joe and Mariah, despite their fears. I’m definitely going to be cracking open a few more Lori Wilde books.

Grade: A

Summary:

Welcome to Jubilee, Texas: where everyone knows everybody’s business—especially if that business is love!

Ex-champion bull rider turned cutting horse cowboy Joe Daniels isn’t quite sure how he ended up sleeping in a horse trough wearing nothing but this Stetson and cowboy boots. But now he’s wide-awake and a citified woman is glaring down at him. His goal? Get rid of her ASAP. The obstacle? Fighting the attraction he feels towards the blond-haired filly with the big, vulnerable eyes.

When out-of-work wedding planning Mariah Callahan learns that her estranged father has left her a rundown ranch in Jubilee, she has no choice but to accept it. Her goal? Redeem her career by planning local weddings. The obstacle? One emotionally wounded, hard-living cowboy who stirs her guilt, her heartstrings, and her long-buried cowgirl roots…

Read an excerpt.

C2’s review of Born to Darkness (Fighting Destiny, Book 1) by Suzanne Brockmann
Paranormal romantic suspense released by Ballantine 20 Mar 12

When a bestselling author decides to go in a new direction, you never know what might happen.  So when Suzanne Brockmann announced she would be taking a break from her popular Troubleshooters, Inc. series to try something new – paranormal! futuristic! – I wasn’t sure about the whole business (especially since I was less than pleased with the last Troubleshooters book.  Yes, I’m still bitter…SO?).  Still, I was intrigued enough to check out the new book (and beginning of a new series), Born of Darkness.  Aren’t you curious, faithful reader??  Stick with me…

First, the setting, Boston in the near future – about 30 years or so from now.  Things in the world are not good.  There is a severe recession.  Jobs are hard to find, homeless rates are high, healthcare is difficult (birth control is banned in 48 states!), and the government is a corporate entity.  Nothing so hard to believe, actually.  In this future, there are people who are able to access more than the usual fraction of their brain’s abilities – aka Greater-Thans.  The extra brain-power can reveal itself in all sorts of interesting talents – telepathy, telekinesis, and all sort of other things.  There is also a new drug being produced (street name: Destiny) by the evil (though unimaginatively named) Organization.  Destiny mimics the natural talents Greater-Thans have.  It is made from a compound found in the blood of Greater-Thans – usually young girls who are taken and held in “farms” until they are no longer of use.  Destiny is really, really expensive, but it can reverse aging, heal sicknesses and all sorts of good things. BUT it is instantly addictive and can lead to spontaneous insanity (aka jokering).  Combine the crazy with super powers and you’ve got a bad, bad situation.

Our hero – Shane Laughlin, a former Navy SEAL (what?? just because it’s a new series doesn’t mean we don’t still get SEALs!).  Shane was recently dishonorably discharged (and blacklisted) after disobeying an order on a mission.  He has been contacted by the Obermeier Institute – a facility that finds and trains Greater-Thans – because he is a Potential.  That means Shane’s brain is slightly more integrated than most people’s and he could, with training, become a Greater-Than.  Since Shane doesn’t have a job and the few places that are hiring won’t hire someone blacklisted, he decides to take OI up on their offer.  The night before he enters the program he goes out for one last hook-up and meets…

Our heroine – Dr. Michelle (Mac) Mackenzie, a pretty powerful Greater-Than.  Mac’s extra powers include super-charisma (she can target someone and wrap them around her little finger…handy, if you really need something or they are otherwise out to get you) and super-fast healing.  Mac has found that the super-healing is sped up even more when she has sex.  Since during an earlier encounter with a joker, she hurt her ankle and was otherwise banged up, Mac needs some companionship. When she goes to visit her boyfriend (read: boy toy), she discovers he’s been cheating on her and is gone.  What’s a super gal gonna do??  Mac heads off to a nearby bar and spies a hot guy across the room.  That’s our pal, Shane.  They instantly have a connection and go back to her place.  During their first encounter, not only are Mac’s injuries completely healed, the entire neighborhood goes dark in one big power surge.  Heh.  However, when Mac hears that Shane is reporting to OI in the morning, she backs way off and tells him they can never see each other again, but she doesn’t say why.

In the meantime, back at OI we meet the other major players in the book – Dr. Joseph Bach, uber-powerful and the head of the Institute.  Dr. Bach is in charge of training the Greater-Thans.  One of his tenets to increase integration and increase power is celibacy…a tenet Mac so doesn’t follow – but Dr. Stephen Diaz does. When Stephen returns to OI after the joker incident, he accidentally touches Dr. Elliot Zerkowski and Elliot is instantly plunged into Stephen’s (lusty, amorous) thoughts.  Unbeknownst to Elliot, Stephen has had a crush on him for ages.  Elliot wonders if a romantic connection between a Greater-Than and a Potential or even an average person – the right person – can noticeably increase the Greater-Than’s power. A very interesting theory… Stephen and Elliot’s relationship is sub-plot number one.

Our second sub-plot involves Dr. Bach and Anna Taylor.  Her thirteen year-old sister, Nika, has been kidnapped by The Organization.  The researchers at OI have just found out she’s a strong Potential, but before they can find her and get her into the Institute, The Organization’s thugs find and grab her.  Since family member often are also grabbed, either for leverage or to see if they also have hidden potential, Anna comes to OI for safety and to help find Nika.  Dr. Bach is drawn to her, but, of course, has had years and years of resisting such impulses…Anna?  Not so much.

With Ms. Brockmann, we are pretty much guaranteed a few things – several plots interwoven throughout the book, characters that feel and sound very much like real people and lots of action.  Certainly, Born of Darkness doesn’t disappoint on any of those.  I usually find her male characters much more likeable than her female characters and that is again true in this book – it isn’t that I think her women are unlikeable…her guys are just so excellent, it’s hard for the ladies to compete.  :-)  Mac is a tough chick.  She has had a difficult life and her powers have made her wary.  Shane, for all his Navy SEAL-ness, seems much more open and optimistic…generally a happy dude.  Same goes for Elliot – basically a happy dedicated doctor dude.  And Steven and Dr. Bach are mostly zen.  Even Anna seems mostly content with her less than excellent life, bumps and all…at least, before all the bad stuff starts happening.

Another good thing, even though this is the first book of a series, there iss not a lot of sequel baiting.  It is easy to see the possibilities of where the series could go, but I could not even guess who might “star” in the next book.  It could be Dr. Bach and Anna, but Ms. Brockmann does like to make her couples work for their happy endings and I suspect she might drag their storyline out a bit.  That’s just a guess, though.

I know this review is miles long (sorry, faithful reader!) and I really only skimmed the basics of the plots.  I’m very pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book.  Obviously, it stands alone.  Is it worth hardcover price?  I say yes (you know, the discounted HC prices usually aren’t too bad).  However, if you’re on the fence about trying a new series in hardcover – and I totally wonder what the publisher was thinking…I’m still not sure it was the best choice – there is an e-novella prequel that will give you a feel for the world she’s building and introduce you to Shane.  It is a bargain at 99 cents!

If you like dystopian settings and the kind of paranormal where there aren’t any vampires or other assorted creatures – the kind of world that feels genuinely possible in the not so distant future – I encourage you to try this book.  It starts off with a bang and doesn’t slow down.  And you get not one but two happy endings.  Yay!

Grade: A+

Summary:

Dishonorably discharged, former Navy SEAL Shane Laughlin is down to his last ten bucks when he finally finds work as a test subject at the Obermeyer Institute, a little-known and believed-to-be-fringe scientific research facility. When he enters the OI compound, he is plunged into a strange world where seemingly mild-mannered scientists—including women half his size—can kick his highly skilled ass.

Shane soon discovers that there are certain individuals who possess the unique ability to access untapped regions of the brain with extraordinary results—including telekinesis, super strength, and reversal of the aging process. Known as “Greater-Thans,” this rare breed is recruited by OI, where they are rigorously trained using ancient techniques to cultivate their powers and wield them responsibly.

But in the depths of America’s second Great Depression, where the divide between the haves and the have-nots has grown even wider, those who are rich—and reckless—enough have a quick, seductive alternative: Destiny, a highly addictive designer drug that can make anyone a Greater-Than, with the power of eternal youth. The sinister cartel known as The Organization has begun mass-producing Destiny, and the demand is epidemic. But few realize the drug’s true danger, and fewer still know the dirty secret of Destiny’s crucial ingredient.

Michelle “Mac” Mackenzie knows the ugly truth. And as one of the Obermeyer Institute’s crack team of operatives, she’s determined to end the scourge of Destiny. But her kick-ass attitude gets knocked for a loop when she finds that one of the new test subjects is none other than Shane, the same smoldering stranger who just rocked her world in a one-night stand. Although Shane isn’t a Greater-Than like Mac, as an ex-SEAL, he’s got talents of his own. But Mac’s got powerful reasons to keep her distance from him—and reasons that are just as strong to want him close. She’s used to risking her life, but now, in the midst of the ultimate war on drugs, she must face sacrificing her heart.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Sandy M’s review of If You Know Here (Ash Trilogy, Book 3) by Shiloh Walker
Romantic Suspense published by Ballantine 28 Feb 12

I devoured this trilogy in nothing flat. Every character – yes, even the villain – is first rate, the mystery keeps you guessing for quite some time, and the romance is vintage Shiloh Walker. If you’re already a fan, you know how good these books are. If you’re not a fan yet, well, you need to step up to the plate. Ms. Walker has knocked it out of the park, time for you to bring it on home.

Up to this point in the trilogy, the reader has no idea who the killer is. You might have an idea or two, there’s some good misdirection going on throughout, but it’s not until about a third of the way into this book we find out who’s been wreaking such havoc on Ash, Kentucky and these characters we’ve grown to love. And that’s all because Nia, cousin to Joely who was killed in the first book, pushes this villain’s buttons, pushes him to re-plan time and again. This guy is scary. Not only because of his need to pursue, violate, and kill, but he blends in. He’s grown up among the people he’s terrorizing, and they have no idea the kind of monster they have in their midst.

Nia has returned to Ash because things regarding the death of the killer and the closure of her cousin’s case just don’t sit right with her. Something isn’t right. So she’s determined to do her own investigating, with the help of the new sheriff, Ezra King, who is the hero in the first book. Ezra has had the same kind of feeling, so he listens to Nia and promises to look into it. But that’s not fast enough for her. Between her research and calling in favors, she’s uncovered some vital information.

Law remembers the golden-eyed, trigger-happy woman who pulled a gun on him because she thought he’d killed Joely. Now she’s back in Ash and she’s on his mind. He doesn’t know if he really wants anything to do with someone who’s so rash, he can’t resist Nia. And I’m glad, because these two are great together. When they meet up again, it’s awkward for Nia because of her previous actions, but Law is ready for more, so much more. When he discovers why she’s really back, he doesn’t think she’s crazy and he wants to help.

Then the killer begins to stalk Nia, trying to scare her enough she’ll hightail it out of Ash, but she feels safe with Law, and little by little the pieces begin to fall into place. Our villain knows the jig is almost up and he begins to put his final plans in motion, knowing he won’t go to jail. And this guy will go to every length there is to stay free. When they find his workshop, holy shit. You’re as sickened and amazed as the characters who discover it are. When all is actually solved this time around, Nia leaves town. Leaves Law. I couldn’t believe it.

You must read this trilogy from the beginning. No way around it. I don’t know that you’d be lost if you failed to start here, but you sure won’t get the whole effect of the story or the characters. These characters feature dominantly in each book, but each romance is never lacking. The story arc moves in time through each one, so you will definitely miss a lot if you read out of order. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Grade: A+

Summary:

A SHADOW IN THE WINDOW

Nia Hollister doesn’t scare easily. Come hell or high water, she intends to find her cousin’s killer. She returns to Ash, Kentucky, for answers. What she doesn’t expect is to ache with desire every time she sees Law Reilly. If any man can help her escape the nightmares for a while, it’s him. But can she allow herself to take comfort in those strong arms when a murderer still roams free?

Unknown to Nia, as she quietly slips into Law Reilly’s home, is that she’s being watched—by someone who is waiting for an opportunity to strike.

Timing is everything, though he can’t wait forever. If she’s not frightened, she soon will be. Nia has made a vow to find her cousin’s killer. She should be careful what she wishes for.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Veena’s review of Bridge of Dreams (Ephemera, Book 3) by Anne Bishop
Paranormal Romance published by ROC 6 Mar 12

Epic battles between Good (Light) versus Evil (Dark) and the fundamental knowledge that light cannot exist without the dark to reflect it is the stuff that fantasy novels are woven from. In Bridge of Dreams, Anne Bishop continues Lee’s journey from where she left off in Belladonna, starts Danyal’s journey from the introduction in The Voice and brings in Sholleh, Zeela a Zhahar and a host of other supporting characters that will hopefully feature in stories for the future.

Lee is Glorianna Belladonna’s brother and is feeling left out of her life as she deals with the aftermath of defeating the darkness that was the “eater of the world.” Lee’s resentment and jealousy starts to create a distance between his sister and friends and other family. “Be careful what you wish for, it might come true” is never truer when heart’s wishes lead Lee into darkness and pain.

Danyal is a Shaman, or a spirit guide, whose readiness and willingness to open his heart and mind to Lee’s stories about landscapers and bridges creating opportunities and choices for him may have far-reaching consequences.

Sholleh Zeela a Zhahar is a tryad of three aspects that share a single core. They are a blend of light and dark with fears, wishes, dreams, honor, and duty. This is as much their journey as Lee and Danyal’s. Zhahar finds a kindred soul in Lee and a level of acceptance which she has never before received outside her people. Her choices and wishes will create interesting opportunities for her tryad as well as for Lee.

Anne Bishop weaves together the classic battle for supremacy between dark and light, introducing new characters, revisiting old characters and places that you’ve visited in the previous books. It’s fun to see changes that have resulted in old places from choices the people in them have made. In order to fully enjoy the story, it is important to have read the previous books in the series, most particularly the recently released short story, The Voice. Ms. Bishop’s imagination calls to my mind and heart and I enjoyed traveling in her world with her characters for the duration of the book. I look forward to more stories in this world.

Grade: A

Summary:

When wizards threaten Glorianna Belladonna and her work to keep Ephemera balanced, her brother Lee sacrifices himself in order to save her—and ends up an Asylum inmate in the city of Vision, far away from all he knows.

At the same time, a darkness is spreading through Vision—a darkness that hides its nature from the Shamans who tend the city and its people. Danyal, one of the Shamans, oversees the Asylum. A man whose heart is searching for its own dreams, he is intrigued by Lee’s ravings about Bridges and Landscapers and wizards. With the help of Zhahar, a Handler with her own dark secrets, Lee’s body and mind improve, and his words begin to make a terrible kind of sense—giving Danyal and Zhahar a glimpse of a world unlike anything they have seen.

As Danyal, Lee, and Zhahar work together to uncover the danger threatening Vision, they will be forced to look beyond themselves—and within themselves—to discover who they are…and how dangerous they can be.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

LauraC’s review of If You Know Her (Ash Trilogy, Book 3) by Shiloh Walker
Romantic Suspense published by Ballantine 28 Feb 12

This is the final book in the Ash trilogy, so all secrets are revealed…and boy are they deeply buried! Walker takes you on a great, emotional ride full of twists and turns. Book 1 of this trilogy gave us Lena and Ezra, book 2 Hope and Remy, and finally Law Reilly gets his chance in the spotlight. Although this is definitely Law and Nia’s book, the other four are never far away, and we see further developments in their characters and relationships as well.

In the first book—If You Hear Her—a murdered woman is found. She is identified as Nia Hollister’s cousin and her only family. In this book, Nia is back in Ash because she refuses to believe the story that the man who killed her cousin has himself been killed. Things don’t add up, and she’s having a hard time processing her cousin’s murder. She’s looking for a killer, not a relationship. But the best laid plans and all that…and she can’t help her feelings for Law. Even if she does spend as much time pissed off at him for trying to protect her as she does lusting after him. Indeed, the two frequently occur at the same time.

I figured out the killer about a third of the way into this book. (He was a prime suspect for me back in Book 1, but I wasn’t sure until now.) But the characters figure it out about two-thirds in, and knowing who it is doesn’t take away any of the tension, since he disappears and they don’t know where he is or what his plans are. Plus, he’s in on everything that goes on in Ash (which we know from his thoughts through the whole series), so it sort of doesn’t matter that you know who he is. It’s like when you see the creepy villain in the horror movie waiting around a corner, and you see the girl walking toward the corner, but you can’t do anything about it.

Nia and Law are a good, solid couple. They fight, they make up, they’re believable together. Their careers and goals don’t seem far apart and you can imagine them having a future. The romantic aspect is very emotional and complements the suspense in a way that’s not easy to find.

This is an excellent book, but a word of warning—you want to read this series in order, preferably back to back. So go grab all three, then settle in for a good time!

Grade: A

Summary:

Nia Hollister doesn’t scare easily. She’s returned to Ash, Kentucky, with a vengeance—and with a mission: find the killer who brutally ended her cousin’s life. What she didn’t count on was trembling with desire every time she sees Law Reilly. If any man can help her escape the nightmares for a while, it’s him. But can she allow herself to take comfort in those strong arms when her sister’s killer still roams free?

She may think she’s a bad ass, but she should not have come back to his town. He is watching her—as she slips into Law Reilly’s house, as she storms into the sheriff’s office. These men won’t be able to protect her when her time comes. Timing is everything, though he can’t wait forever. She’s nosing around the woods, looking for his hiding place. Yes, he is watching her . . . through the window . . . in her bed . . .

If she’s not scared, she should be . . . because he is very good at what he does.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series: