LauraJ’s review of The Bite Before Christmas by Heidi Betts
Paranormal Romance published by Brava 28 Sep 10

She’s written historical westerns, funny and sexy knitting stories, and has several Desire books to her name (and another one coming out soon. YAY!) and now she’s entering into the paranormal world with vampires. And not just any kind of vampires, she’s giving us funny, sexy, “sparkle” free vampires (another YAY!).

The first of the three stories features Conner Drake who just wants to have a normal, traditional Christmas, complete with all the decorations. Unfortunately, his two younger siblings can’t seem to get into the spirit of the holidays and seem to stop at nothing to ruin his mood.

Thanks to good friend and matchmaker, Angelina Ricci’s recommendation to hire event coordinator, Jillian Parker to spruce up Drake Manor for the holidays, Conner hopes to bring his brother and sister around so that can finally enjoy a traditional Christmas, something they haven’t done in a long time. Jillian is a bit nervous around vampires, but quickly becomes someone the Drake family needs to bring them back together.

I really enjoyed this story (my second favorite of the three). Ms. Betts not only delivers a funny and sexy story but also tackles (slightly) the idea of prejudices and also family dysfunction. Jillian has never spent time around vampires and is a little uneasy about working so closely with one, but from the story you get that Jillian, while knowing that she could really bring in some much needed income, she is also someone who wants to learn first hand if the prejudices are warranted.

Conner is a traditionalist when it comes to family and holidays, but his two younger siblings want no part of any of that. They rebel at every opportunity and flaunt they vampire status every where. It provides some moments of very funny battle of wits (if you are a parent of teenagers, you will be able to relate).

The second story (and my favorite) is about Vivian Harrison who is madly in love with her boss Sean Spice. When she learns some devastating news about Sean, things go from great working relationship to really great (as in HOT, HOT, HOT) but very inappropriate boss/employee relationship. Afterwards, Vivian spills her guts to Angelina who takes it upon herself to make all of Vivian’s dreams come true. Unfortunately for Sean, it’s going to take a lot of convincing by Vivian (who is not at all happy with Angelina’s meddling ways) that life is the best gift of all.

I LOVED this story and it’s my favorite of the three. This is the one that had me really laughing out loud in several places. Sean’s reaction to his “change” is absolutely hilarious. Vivian is put in a very tight spot with having to break the news to Sean and convincing him this really isn’t such a bad thing given the alternative. She goes through a whole range of emotions while dealing with Sean and with Angelina’s meddling, but she never comes across as anything but likable.

The third story features Angelina and her very hunky vampire, cop boyfriend of many, many years. Every year Angelina has hoped and wished for Ian Hart to come around and finally ask her to marry him. She knows that are meant to be together for eternity but thinks that Ian is just happy with the status quo. Another holiday season and no question popping, Angelina begins to wonder if things would be different if they weren’t vampires with an eternity to spend together. She falls asleep and when she wakes up things just don’t seem the same. For one, they aren’t vampires anymore.

Since I’m not a huge fan of suspense (and there is a little in this story), this was my least favorite of the three, but I still really enjoyed Angelina and Ian’s story. It still has several very funny parts, especially when Angelina realizes something weird is going on. Ian is definitely the strong, silent, sexy type. **grin** Through most of the story he comes across as the strong, silent type. Without giving anything away (at least I hope) I couldn’t help but love his soft, tender and romantic side.

We get to know Angelina throughout the book and other stories as a great friend who cares deeply about others finding happiness, especially her closest friends (Conner and Vivianne). She appears to be a very strong person in the first two stories so it was nice to see her more vulnerable.

The only thing I can say negative about this book/stories is they weren’t long enough (luckily we will be getting another vampire book from her next year!!)! I really, really loved it and if you have read other books by Ms. Betts and enjoyed her writing and characters, you will love this one too. If you have never picked up a book by her, then I highly recommend you try this one and then go back and pick up her other books as well. You won’t be disappointed.

Grade: A

Summary:

“All I Vant For Christmas”

Millionaire vampire Connor Drake loves trimming the tree, baking gingerbread cookies, and hanging the mistletoe for Christmas, but his Goth and gloomy vampire siblings won’t have anything to do with it. Enter Angelina, who sends party planner Jillian Parker to the rescue. But when Jillian—who’s mortal–discovers that she’s decking the halls for a family of vampires, will she run…or will Connor have a beautiful woman to share the holidays with?

“A Vampire in Her Stocking”

When Vivian learns that her secret crush, Nick, is terminally ill, she is heartbroken. Confiding in Angelina, Vivian refuses to turn Nick into a vampire. Deciding to play Santa, Angelina changes Nick and leaves him wrapped in a red bow on Vivian’s doorstep…

“It’s A Wonderful Bite”

Although Angelina is happy with her longtime lover, Ian, she’s ready for a commitment. After drinking eggnog and watching It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve for the (literally) four millionth time, Angelina falls into a dream where she is mortal, and Ian is involved with someone else. Talk about the nightmare before Christmas! But Santa must have checked his list twice, because this Christmas Angelina’s wishes are about to come true…

Read an excerpt.

This just in…

I’m very excited because one of my favorite authors has a new book coming out in just a few days!

The Bite Before Christmas will be released by Kensington Brava on September 28th. This is Ms. Betts first venture into the paranormal world of vampires and her first release with Brava. All three stories take place around the Christmas holiday and I’m sure will not only be sexy, but will be the light hearted humor that Ms. Betts known for.

You can check out a couple of excerpts here and here.

Vampires and Christmas? Who knew!

In Heidi Betts-s collection of holiday novellas, vampires turn to Angelina Bertolli-vampire matchmaker extraordinaire-to help them find that special someone to curl up with under the mistletoe

--All I Vant For Christmas-

Connor loves trimming the Christmas tree, baking gingerbread cookies, and hanging the mistletoe. But his vampire siblings won-t help. His friend Angelina sends party planner Jillian to the rescue. But when Jillian, who-s mortal, discovers she-s decking the halls for a family of vampires, will she run-or will Connor have a beautiful woman to share the holidays with?

-A Vampire in Her Stocking-

When Vivian learns that her secret crush Nick is terminally ill, she-s heartbroken. Confiding in Angelina, Vivian refuses to turn Nick into a vampire. Deciding to play Santa, Angelina changes Nick and leaves him wrapped in a red bow on Vivian-s doorstep-

-It-s A Wonderful Bite-

Although Angelina is happy with her boyfriend Sergio, she-s ready for a commitment. After drinking eggnog and watching It-s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve, Angelina falls into a dream where she is mortal and Sergio isn-t interested in her. Talk about the nightmare before Christmas! But Santa must have checked his list twice because this Christmas Angelina-s wishes are coming true-

LauraJ’s review of Knock Me For A Loop
by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romance published by St. Martin’s Press
2 Feb 1o

I have a confession to make…I read this book when it first came out. But when I read it, I really just wanted to read it without reading it to critique it. I had been looking forward to Grace and Zack’s story since I first met them in the first book in the series, Tangled Up in Love. I knew then that they were going to be my favorite couple of the three books and now I can say they were. Also by reading it for fun first I had a really good excuse to go back re-read it so I could write up a review. I can still say after the second reading that it is still my favorite of the three.

Here is a little back history in case you haven’t read these books yet. In Tangled, Grace and Zack are engaged and to their friends in love in the most disgustingly way possible (since they love lives are currently not so hot). In Loves Me, Loves Me Knot an “incident” happens and all hell breaks loose ending their fairy tale romance at least until this book.

Zack “Hot Legs” Hoolihan is the star goalie for the Cleveland Rockets hockey team. He had it all until the love of his life, Grace Fisher walked out of his life and won’t listen to him explain what she thinks she saw didn’t actually happen. He’s furious with her for some things that have happened but all he wants is Grace back in his life. Zack is a kid at heart. He’s the “fun one” of the three guy friends (Gage being the dark brooding, serious one and Dylan the more logical, rational one.). He’s serious about 2 things: hockey and Grace.

Grace can be described as a cross between Marilyn Monroe and Martha Stewart. She has her own show that can rival Ms. Stewart’s any day of the week. She was even knitting her own wedding dress. Key word there is “was”. After Zack’s apparent indiscretion that dress and a few other items don’t stand a chance against a very angry Grace who is normally a sweet, mild manner person.

Despite the fact that Grace went off the deep end after the “incident” she still cares deeply for Zack and he would do anything to win her back, if she would just listen. He of course is miserable without her and it affects his game play to the point of serious injury. Wounds need to heal and trust needs to be restored for Grace and Zack to get that happy ever after. Ms. Betts does not rush this couple back to their happy ever after but lets that relationship grow again and this time into something stronger and better. Both Grace and Zack had things that they had to overcome personally before their relationship would work. Despite the heartache with what happened it was good for them.

The other two books could easily be read as stand alone books (although I recommend reading all three and in order) but with this one you at least need to read Loves Me first, Loves Me Knot first. In Loves Me you get the events to the “incident” from Grace’s point of view and in Knock you see what happens from Zack’s angle. Both are very hilarious (especially Zack’s). In fact there are many laugh out loud moments. The previous books’ heroes and heroines make appearances and also their favorite “aunt” Charlotte (She is Jenna from Loves Me real aunt) who is still spinning some “special” yarn to help mend some broken hearts. Knock Me for a Loop is definitely in my top ten favorite books (along with the other two). These books will be forever on my keeper shelf and I will pull them off to read over and over again.

Grade: A+

Summary:

SHE’S CUTTING HIM LOOSE
When it comes to relationships, talk show host Grace Fisher won’t stand for cheating—especially not from her fiancé, star hockey goalie Zack Hoolihan. Her weekly knitting group backs her up when she calls it off, but it doesn’t entirely ease the sting of betrayal. She won’t listen to Zack’s indignant explanations of innocence—she just wants to tie up loose ends and move on. Until he winds up injured, that is, and she finds herself playing nursemaid…

NOW HE’S THROWN FOR A LOOP
Zack doesn’t know how that woman got into his hotel room, but he does know losing Grace has put him so far off his game, he ended up with a busted knee and a broken heart. If things aren’t mended fast, he’ll miss the playoffs, miss his girl, and lose everything. But if Grace is willing to push him into physical therapy, maybe he can pull her back into his arms—before their truce unravels. This time, he’ll do everything it takes to knit their relationship back together…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

 LauraJ’s review of Loves Me, Loves Me Knot by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romance released by St. Martin’s Press 4 Aug 09

I could be the only person who does this, but have you ever wanted a book so bad that come hell or high water you were going to get it? Now for those of you that have wanted a book that badly, have you actually had to go through hell or wade through high water to get it? I have and believe me when I say it was worth it. See on August 4th, 2009 this book was released along with eight inches of rain in one hour.

Yes, eight inches of rain in an hour causes a lot of problems, cars washing away, basements flooded, police telling folks not to go out unless it’s an emergency and in some places saying they will arrest you if you are out and there is no emergency. So I’m trying very hard to come up with what would sound plausible to a police officer if he should happen to catch me on the road and I came up with nada.

So I go to plan B. Check with the bookstore that is located right next to my husbands work and it looks like plan B is going to work as they have a copy in the store and it is placed on hold for me. Simple plan really, husband picks up book and brings home, I’m happy. Except guess who forgets to pick up book? Yeah, that would be the one sleeping in the doghouse that night.

On to plan C. I hear from someone that they got a copy of the book at Meijers (for those who don‘t know what Meijers is, it‘s kind of like Wal-Mart). There is one down the road from my house and the ban on driving unless it’s an emergency has been lifted. All I can say now is they better have a copy of this book or someone is going to be in the doghouse a lot longer than just one night. Yes, I want to read this book.

Since it’s been six months since the first book in this trilogy has been released I have been on pins and needles (thankfully and lucky for my husband, I was able to buy the book that night) waiting to see what was going to happen with the next couple, Jenna and Gage. In the first book, Tangled Up in Love, we first meet the couple. They are divorced, but still it’s very obvious to everyone but themselves, and Jenna’s aunt Charlotte, that they are still in love.

When they divorced it had been over children. Jenna wanted them Gage did not. He is an undercover cop who has seen the worse and it has pretty much left him without any hope that there is good out there. Thanks to some good margaritas and some scheming good friends, Jenna sets out to have the child she wants from the only man she wants to have a child with.

With the deed done, Jenna lets her friends Ronnie and Grace know that the plan has worked so far. Problem is Gage overhears the conversation. He is of course outraged and tells Jenna that he plans on sticking to her until they know for sure whether or not she’s pregnant. Now if they can just keep things between them sexual (and protected sexual at that), everything will just be fine. Well you know what they say about those best laid plans.

This is such a great cast of characters I don’t know where to start, but since this is Jenna and Gage’s story, I’ll start with them.

I love them, although they weren’t my top couple from the first book, I quickly found I really liked their story. It’s not often that you see a reunion story of a divorced couple. I think I’ve only read one or two myself so I like this unique take on it. There marriage ended because of a lack of communication which is probably the cause of a large number of failed marriages. Gage had to submerge himself in his work and because of that he lost touch with part of reality, the part where there are good people.

This is not a “I had a bad childhood, woe is me kind of story. Both he and Jenna actually came from families that loved each other, not perfectly, but their upbringing were still nothing like the things Gage saw in carrying out his job. By shutting Jenna out of his life and letting her go he thought he was protecting her from the evils that he saw so regularly on the job. Gage is a man who doesn’t express much even to his best friends, Dylan and Zack. I really liked watching him emerge from his cocoon to express those feelings to Jenna and to learn to have faith again in the world around him. He still has work to do and it’s going to take a while (something I like–I really hate when things wrap up nice and neat in a few pages). No one can change overnight, but he is well on his way.

Jenna is the quiet one of the three best friends. She is also the niece to Charlotte. I did kind of expect her to be more whiny, but she’s not. Even though she is the “quiet” one of the group, she has no problem standing up to Gage when he tries to be all alpha male. She ended up being a much tougher person that I expected. She has been putting on a brave face and trying to move on for nearly a year well aware that things are definitely over with him. At least she keeps telling herself that. She’s dated, but no one has come close to what she felt for Gage and she is okay with that. What she is not okay with is being deprived of the child that she and Gage had always wanted until he became disillusioned with the world. He is the only one that she would ever want to father her child.

Aunt Charlotte is such a lovable lady. She believes that an antique spinning wheel that belonged to her mother and grandmother is enchanted and the yarn that is spun on it will bring the person who uses it their true love. She makes a special yarn for Jenna hoping to get her over her sadness for loosing Gage and help her find a new true love. If anyone remembers the show Facts of Life and the lovable Mrs. Garret you have Aunt Charlotte.

Dylan and Ronnie from Tangled Up in Love are back and are still blissfully happy. Zack and Grace who we also met in Tangle (and who I think are going to be my favorite couple of the three couples) are still engaged (another unique aspect of these books that I haven’t read in any before), but something happens and things get a bit rocky for the two. What happens with these two in this story are some of the funniest moments in the book and another reason that I can’t wait to read their story.

These books are exactly the kinds of stories I want to read. They are sexy, funny and have characters that could easily be real. They are characters that jump off the pages from the very beginning and keep you engrossed until the end when they finally get their happy ending. Loves Me, Loves Me Knot is a keeper book for me. It’s a book that I know I will re-read more than once, going to it like comfort food when I’m in need of a story that will leave me feeling happy.

Grade:A

Summary:
.
THIS IS KNOT YOUR AVERAGE LOVE STORY
.
Jenna Langan knows what she wants, and as she tells her best friends after their weekly knitting group, she doesn’t need a man to give it to her…only a few of his best swimmers. And just because her marriage to undercover vice cop Gage Marshall ended badly doesn’t mean he can’t still give her the baby she’s always wanted. In fact, she’s willing to bet a couple of her favorite hand-knit boas that she can tie him up in knots he’ll definitely enjoy…
.
BUT TRUE LOVE IS MORE THAN JUST SKEIN DEEP
.
An unexpected seduction is one thing, but stud service? No, thank you. Gage had his reasons for pulling the plug on his happily ever after with Jenna, and nothing that’s happened since their divorce has changed his mind. That is, until Jenna got it into her head to tie him up and drag him down. Now he has no choice but to stick around until he knows for sure if his ex-wife is pregnant. But the more time he spends with Jenna, the more his resolve begins to unravel…
.
Read an excerpt here and a deleted scene here.

Other books in this series:

Heidi enlisted the help of one of her furry friends and has picked the winners from her visit.

Congratulations to:

Stacy S.
Jan
Jane

Please go to Heidi’s Book Page and pick your book from her backlist (sorry, but Tangled Up in Love is not available) then contact her through her contact page or email her at heidi@heidibetts.com with your choice and mailing address.

Many thanks to Heidi for taking time away from her writing (book #3 of the Chicks with Sticks trilogy) to chat with us (and apparently spill some of my secrets) and to everyone who stopped by to say hi.

Please welcome to the Pond today the wonderfully talented and funny Heidi Betts.  Her latest book Tangled Up in Love was released on February 3, 2009, and is the first book in her Chicks with Sticks trilogy. Love Me, Love Me Knot will be released in August 2009 and Knock Me For a Loop will follow in February of 2010.  

The new trilogy is based around a knitting group of which the heroines of each book, Ronnie, Jenna, and Grace, are members. Their respective heroes are Dylan, Gage, and Zack who are friends. The fun starts in Tangled Up in Love when Ronnie and Dylan, who work for competing newspapers, issue challenges via their papers to one other in a contest of man versus woman, which includes white water rafting, bungee jumping, mountain climbing, and, of course, learning to knit. And that’s only the beginning!

Now learn a little about the author who knits romance just as well as she does an Angora sweater.

I can’t thank Laura enough for inviting me to chat here at The Good, The Bad, & The Unread. When she first asked me to visit, she said that “Make a Splash” was pretty much an open slate & I could talk about anything I like. Ah, the power. It was tempting to take her up on the offer and do something truly wicked and wild. (For the record, I reserve the right to do that at some point in the future.)

Unfortunately, I recently wrapped up what we at my WIPs and Chains blog call the “Blog Tour 2009” and I haven’t quite recovered yet. The only things going through my brain are “Ohmigod, I’m so far behind on my next book!” and “It’s February already? Really? Where did January go?” So, being the generous and benevolent Lady of the Whip that she is, Laura offered to send me a series of interview questions instead. Ah, better. This I can do, I thought. And then I saw her questions. Lady of the Whip, indeed…she certainly doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to discovering her favorite author’s deepest, darkest secrets. (note to Heidi–shhhhh!! everyone here thinks I’m sweet and nice. And you can blame Sandy M. for the questions. Really, I am totally innocent here. *g*)

But anyway, here it goes:

Lightning Round:
- dark or milk chocolate? Dark may be better for you, but milk chocolate is the yummiest. Guess I’ll just have to get my antioxidants somewhere else.

- smooth or chunky peanut butter? Smooth, definitely. I like my peanut butter to get stuck to the roof of my mouth, not stuck in my teeth. *g*

- heels or flats? Well, I like fancy heels best, but since they pretty much make me look like a giraffe on roller skates when I wear them, I’ve gotta go with the comfy, casual, blister-free answer of flats.

- coffee or tea? Tea! All day, every day! Hot’s okay, but I like it better cold. Coffee—gack! I don’t know how anybody drinks that stuff.

- summer or winter? Neither. I prefer Spring & Fall. Summer gets too hot and winter gets too cold. Though the “not-too” times of each of those seasons are okay.

- mountains or beach? Oh, man, that’s a toughie. I love the mountains because of the seclusion and nature. Of course, that’s only if there’s a nice, comfortable cabin with heat, electricity, and running water nearby. If we’re talking sleeping on the ground and dealing with all kinds of bugs and critters… No, thank you. I love, love, love the beach. Except for the sun. But sand and water are wonderful. Of course, that’s as long as you don’t go too far into the water, because then we might be talking sharks, jelly fish, barracudas, and even sharp shells or stones that would cut the bottoms of my delicate feet.

- mustard or mayonnaise? Mayo! Hate, hate, hate mustard! (Except the wee bit they put on McDonald’s hamburgers. Don’t ask me why, but I can tolerate it there.)

- flowers or candy? Ahhh, can’t I have both? Please?!? Okay, I’m picky about my candy, so if I can’t have the good stuff, I’d rather have flowers. But I prefer live flowers over cut ones, so if they were just going to die in a week, I might have to go back to candy.

- pockets or purse? A purse. No, not a purse, a tote. And not just any tote…a bag the size of a small elephant. I need a dolly to drag my purse around most days, but God forbid I be without anything I might need when I’m out and about.

- Pepsi or Coke? Coke! Diet Cherry Coke, if you’ve got it.

- ebook or print? Print. Gotta have a book in my hands. Gotta be able to see and stroke the cover, turn the pages, smell the ink and glue that hold them all together. Gotta be able to mark my place with a good old-fashioned bookmark and come back to it later.

-knit or crochet? Ah-ha! A trick question. You’re trying to get me into trouble, aren’t you? Considering that I’m currently writing and promoting a series of sexy-hot and crazy-funny romance novels that are all about knitting, I’m going to have to go with KNITTING! (Ha! You can’t trip me up that easily, Laura!) Although I do actually crochet, too, and enjoy it just…I mean almost as much.

Some other fun stuff:

1. What is your favorite word?

Floccinaucinihilipilification. It’s the longest word in the English language (not counting medical terms and such) and I’ve always loved it, mostly because I can pronounce it. When my mother was teaching, if she heard a student using the F-word, she would take them aside and tell them that they could either take detention or sit and write her F-word—complete with definition—25 or 50 times. I just always thought it was fun to say—and fun to watch people’s eyes glaze over when you use it in conversation. *g*

2. What is your least favorite word?

No. I do not like to be told I can’t do or have something. I mean I really don’t like it. And it usually just makes me angry enough or more determined to figure how I darn well can do or have what it is I want.

3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

Would it be wrong of me to say Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson? Oh, come on. Look at that man and tell me he doesn’t get your juices flowing in every way. 

4. What turns you off creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

I’m going to sound like a total snob here, but I have to admit that bad writing and bad grammar drive me batty. I’m not a complete Grammar Nazi; I mean, I won’t jump down your throat if you end a sentence with a preposition and even—gasp!—do it myself from time to time. But I refuse to go through the “10 Items or Less” lines at the grocery store on principle and nearly go into spasms over the misuse of who/that. I know, I know, but it’s a deeply ingrained pet peeve. I think it comes from being raised by two school teachers (see Question 9), one of whom went to parochial school, where bad grammar meant getting your knuckles rapped by a ruler-wielding nun. *shudders*

5. What sound or noise do you love?

I love to listen to my cats purr. I don’t know how they do it and each one is unique, but it’s just adorable and melts my heart every time—even when I’m mad at them.

6. What sound or noise do you hate?

Well, nails on a chalk board is right up there. And, omg, the sound of a nail file (the gritty, sandpaper kind) scraping against anything but an actual fingernail. Sends shivers down my spine every single time.

7. What is your favorite curse word?

I’m the daughter of a Navy man, so I have lots of favorite curse words—not many of which are fit for print. “Son of a bitch” is a favorite and oft-muttered swear in my house, and I’ve also always been fond of “funky butt-lovin,” (from Rookie of the Year), which is exceptionally satisfying to use when you stub your toe or such.

8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

Other than exotic dancer or space cowgirl? I’d have to say something that has me working with animals—veterinarian, marine biologist, Head Clubber who clubs the [dirty word]s who club seals…

9. What profession would you not like to do?

Just about anything Mike Rowe has done on Dirty Jobs. Yuck. I also would not like to be a teacher in any way, shape, or form. Both of my parents were teachers, and I don’t know how they do it. I swear, I would kill half my class within the first twenty minutes (yes, even the younger kids) and run screaming from the building in forty.

10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

Well, a warm welcome would be nice. I certainly wouldn’t be happy if He said, “Hi, you’re dead, but you also took a wrong turn. You want to go back the way you came, hang a left instead of a right, and follow the escalator going dooooowwwwwn.” Yikes! Other than that, I would really like to know that I’m going to get to be with my dad and all my babies again, and I don’t care if He tells me that or just points me in the right direction.

It’s me again. Heidi has generously offered up to three (3) posters and a book from her backlist.  Even though this doesn’t include Tangled Up in Love,  there are several other very good books to choose from. You have all weekend to enter and we’ll have Heidi draw the winners on Monday (2/22/09).  In the mean time, if you are looking for a really good book to read and keep you warm on the cold winter nights, pick up Tangled Up in Love and check out Heidi’s blogs at WIPs and Chains and Must Love Yarn.

Thanks for hanging out in the pond with us, Heidi!!

 LauraJ’s review of Tangled Up In Love (Chicks With Sticks, Book 1) by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romantic Comedy released by St. Martin’s 3 Feb 09

I have been looking forward to this book for months. In fact I have been looking forward to it ever since Ms. Betts announced on her blog that she had sold a romantic comedy trilogy to St. Martin’s Press. When the release day finally got here and I got my hands on my copy of the book I became a bit nervous. Was this book going to live up to the hype I had for it in my mind? I can now answer that with a resounding YES!

I got the book in my hands and made the mistake of starting to read it while sitting at a very long traffic light. Bad idea, Laura, BAD IDEA! From the very first sentence this book this grabbed me and had me laughing, snickering, and even snorting (not a pretty sound, but at least I was not in public when it happened).

If you have ever seen the musical “Annie Get Your Gun” (stage or movie version) , you know the song “Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better.” Veronica “Ronnie” Chasen and Dylan Stone are a modern day version of Annie Oakley and Frank Butler. In both cases, the main characters are both rivals and then lovers. During the song Annie and Frank bicker back and forth that one is better than the other and challenge each other to do harder shooting tricks. Fortunately for Dylan, Ronnie doesn’t challenge him to any shooting matches involving guns, but their challenges to each other do push them past their comfort zones.

For Ronnie she has to bungee jump, go white water rafting and get a tattoo. Dylan is given the tasks of mountain climbing, getting his legs waxed and sent to a biker bar dressed in… well you really need to read that part for yourself. After Dylan’s challenge to Ronnie to get the tattoo she know she has to come up with something that will finally stump him and she will get to keep his precious award trophy. Thanks to her friends, they come up with the perfect plan to hopefully put Dylan “the jackass” Stone in his place and make him finally admit there is something that men just can’t do as well as woman. What Ronnie doesn’t count on is that Dylan will walk into her favorite knitting place during her weekly knitting group night to ask for help.

With the help of quirky, but lovable knitting group member Charlotte (Jenna‘s aunt, alpaca farm owner, and has a “special spinning wheel“ that is said to have some magical powers with the yarn it creates), Ronnie gets “pushed” into giving Dylan private knitting lessons. She agrees but only gives him the very basics in help. As she spends time alone with Dylan, Ronnie learns that he might not be the “jackass” she thought he was.

Besides Dylan, Ronnie and Charlotte, Ms. Betts has created a fantastic cast of characters. Gage and Jenna (Book 2), who are divorced and still hurting from it, and Zack and Grace (Book 3) who are currently engaged. I’m looking forward to see what happens as I believe this is the first time for me that in a series the hero/heroine of the sequels are together or once were before their book begins. Usually those characters will be introduced in the first book and then become a couple in the later books so I‘m anxious to see how this will play out.

There is also Melanie, who is also member of Ronnie, Jenna, Grace and Charlotte’s knitting group and adds wisdom and insight to the Ronnie’s latest challenge to Dylan and the mysterious and sexy bartender Turk. Don’t know how much we will learn of him, but there is just enough of him in the story to make me curious about him (and maybe a story for him later on?).

The banter between Dylan and Ronnie is hilarious but at the same time you can almost feel the spark of attraction coming off them. Besides their very public challenges, they even challenge each other in the bedroom with some fun and very hot results. Both learn that the other is not what they think the other is like. Apart they bring out the worst in each other, but they finally figure out that together they bring out the best in each other. Dylan teaches Ronnie to be less serious and uptight about things and Ronnie helps Dylan find the confidence he needs to go for his dream and write what he really wants to write.

I’m really looking forward to Jenna and Gage’s story in Loves Me, Loves Me Knot out August 2009. Of all the characters they are the two that have yet to show their personalities (mostly because they are still pining away for each other, but neither will admit it. They so need their HEA). Zack and Grace’s story will follow in February 2010. As a bonus, at the end of each book, there is a knitting pattern. In Tangled Up in Love the pattern is for the scarf that Dylan makes for the challenge issued by Ronnie.

I have read other books by Ms. Betts and have loved them all, but I believe these stories are going to be my favorite by her. Her humor and personality really shows in these books and I really hope she will continue to write romantic comedies after this series ends.

Grade: A+

Summary:
ARE THEY FIT TO BE TIED?

Ever since Dylan Stone beat Veronica Chasen out of a prime position at the Cleveland Herald, they’ve been bitter rivals, engaging in a very public war of words in their competing newspaper columns. They routinely challenge each other to go bungee jumping, white water rafting, or into tattoo parlors to see who will wimp out first. But Veronica’s latest taunt may be Dylan’s toughest assignment yet: She dares him to learn to knit.

OR WILL DESIRE UNRAVEL THEM BOTH?

Dylan is not going to let something his grandmother can do scare him off. He’s man enough to make a scarf—and attend Veronica’s weekly knitting circle. But when the infuriatingly handsome Dylan shows up at the craft shop and charms all the ladies, Veronica begins to get all knotted up in something that feels a lot like love… But will the two ever stop needling each other?

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Seven-Year Seduction by Heidi Betts
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette Desire on 14 Feb 06

So, we all know you can get Harlequin books early from their website – but what a perfect release date, right? I have to admit – thus far, my favorite books by Heidi Betts are from ’05-’06, and of course, her Silhouette Desire books. I highly recommend you get those from your library – which is what I did. (Or you can buy them used readily enough, which is also nice.) Ms. Betts also very recently had a new release Tangled Up In Love (released 3 Feb 09), but I don’t have that — so I’m making do with what I’ve got.  Seven-Year Seduction is a great friends to lovers story, and I freely admit that that is one of my favorite plot lines.

Beth Curtis is an attorney in California, practicing as an entertainment lawyer. She’s smart, but over worked, and a home town girl at heart. I liked how Beth was developed, but still realistic in that she holds a grudge. (Be honest — it’s natural — or at least common enough.) I did find some of Beth’s behavior a bit erratic at the beginning, but its understandable under the circumstances. She’s at her brother’s wedding and forced to interact with the man who broke her heart — Connor Riordan. A man she also managed to generally avoid for seven years. (Hence the name — clever, yes?) Another detail I appreciated was that Ms. Betts noted the difference in Beth’s work and home environment. Work was out in California, but her heart still belonged in Ohio. And it showed.

Connor Riordan is a fitting Silhouette Desire hero. He’s down to earth, kind, has a good sense of humor, but oftentimes clueless when it comes to the heroine. (As so many males are.) He’s actually in a committed relationship with another woman at the opening — but that is quickly ended. Connor moves into Nick Curtis’s home while his best friend and new bride are on their honeymoon. Connor realizes that he needs closure with Beth for a number of reasons – and he’s determined to get that sorted out. I liked how steadfast Connor was throughout the book, and he showed genuine concern and emotion for Beth. Connor is also self deprecating at times, and has great internal dialogue. I always love reading from the male/hero’s perspective, and Connor was no exception.

Beth is stuck in Crystal Springs, her home town due to an impending storm. Her brother Nick tells her to stay at his house while he’s gone — its also the house Beth grew up in. This along with Connor’s recent break up (and him being kicked out of his own home by his live in girlfriend) provide the perfect back drop for effectively trapping the two and effectively stranding them together. I liked that Ms. Betts had Beth and Connor reconnect first as friends, before pushing their relationship to another level. They grew up together, and miss the camaraderie, and that makes their romance even more believable.

There were a few minor discrepancies in the novel as to age and time line. First, Beth “seduces” Conner while she’s in law school finishing it, I believe- so she’s in her ~mid 20s — but then there are some references to her being in college … anyway – I just felt a few of the age/time references were jumbled. It didn’t really detract from the novel itself. It may also be a case of “knowing too much” — and over thinking the setting as well. For one thing, Crystals Springs is apparently a real place, and I found the isolation of the town somewhat hard to believe. (Of course, I’ve never actually been there, but Google Maps is a fount of information.)

What was a bit weird was the relationship between Connor and Beth and how it developed. The dynamics were interesting – I just wasn’t sure when it suddenly became “okay” for them to be a couple, considering all the prior resistance and roadblocks. What I mean is… Beth hates Connor. Or at least, she does at the beginning of the book and into the first few chapters. She sasses him, and has some really great zingers. Yes, she lets down her guard and opens up once she works through a few issues, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on when that change happened.

I also chose to ignore the fact in a way, that Connor had just ended a three year relationship -one serious enough for him to have been living with another woman, and immediately pursue Beth. Of course, on the flip side- it could be considered sweet, because he loved Beth so much — deep down — that he didn’t know about it, but it prevented him from truly loving anyone else.

Regardless, I enjoyed the story a lot. Seven-Year Seduction is a cute, sweet story with humor, great characters, and a nice depth. There are secondary stories and characters, and enough to keep you engaged. There are some dark spots as well, but they really forward the plot and help bring Beth and Connor together. I liked that Seven-Year Seduction wasn’t predictable, and had real issues that the Beth and Connor had to deal with. Of course it was adorable when they revealed their feelings — and talked about the past. And also, the ending. I loved the ending.

I recommend this book to fans of Ms. Betts, as well as the Silhouette Desire line. Books like this are what drew me to the line in the first place.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Time could not erase the fire between them…

Connor Riordan was the last person Beth Curtis wanted to walk down the aisle with, even if it was only at her brother’s wedding. Being close to him was too painful a reminder of her girlhood fantasies—featuring none other than Connor himself.

That crush had culminated in one night of passion and seven years of bitterness; and even now, Beth’s anger warred against her attraction to Connor. Still, there was too much history, too many secrets, that would prevent her from ever loving him again.

But when a storm strands the two together, Beth is in for a surprise. Connor has a secret of his own—he plans on seducing Beth. A seduction seven years in the making…

Read an excerpt here.

This just in…
For months now I have been anxiously awaiting Heidi Betts’ new book, Tangled Up in Love, a contemporary romantic comedy from St. Martin’s Press, to hit shelves. Well, finally today is the day.

~ This is the first book in the Chicks with Sticks trilogy with the second and third books coming out in August 2009 and February 2010. Each story pits three women from a knitting group against three jock-type heroes.

~ To go along with the release, as well as future releases, Ms. Betts has started a new blog, Must Love Yarn. She will be sharing excerpts from the books, the books’ covers as she gets them, and other “behind the scenes” information about each one.

~ She will also be chatting about her knitting passion, sharing knitting patterns, have visiting knitting guest bloggers (author Donna Alward visited in early January and shared a pattern for a checkerboard scarf), and wants patterns, knitting or crocheting, from blog readers.

~ Oh, and one more thing…Ms. Betts has also started a Yahoogroup called the Heidi Betts Happy Bookers. It’s a place for her fans to talk about her books and whatever else might they want to chat about.

~ So if you are a fan of romantic comedies, knitting, or both and just want to hang out at some fun blogs, check out Heidi Betts’ newest book and her blogs.

Consider yourself flashed.

Liviania’s review of Hotter Than Hell by Tanya Huff, Marjorie M. Liu, Cheyenne McCray, L.A. Banks, Susan Krinard, Keri Arthur, Heidi Betts, Lilith Saintcrow, Susan Sizemore, Denise Little, Carrie Vaughn, Linda Winstead Jones, and Kim Harrison
Urban fantasy/paranormal romance anthology released by Harper 24 June 08

With Hotter than Hell, HarperCollins goes in a somewhat different direction from their previous Hell anthologies. These are erotic short stories rather than novellas. It’s worth picking up if you’re very fond of one of the authors or wish to experience several of the authors’ work before buying their series. While all of the stories are well-written and none are truly awful, many of the stories are forgettable or unsatisfying.

Music Hath Charms by Tanya Huff

Bedford Entertainment music executive Ali wants to sign the band NoMan before her longtime, more corporate rivals from Vital Records. But there’s more at stake than money, because NoMan’s frontmen possess a power that manifests in their music. This urban fantasy story is one of the best in the anthology, but some readers may be uncomfortable with the content. There are orgies, menage, and gay and bisexual characters.

Grade: B+

Minotaur in Stone by Marjorie M. Liu

Liu is an author that constantly almost wows me. She explores various intriguing themes in Minotaur in Stone and describes everything with beautiful imagery. However, the tantalizing short story is hampered by a sketchy heroine. Too little is known about her to really fall into her mind – her past is hinted at but never partially explained (which could explain, in turn, some of the story elements) and the description of her is so thin she doesn’t even have a name. It’s a sharp contrast to the detail given to the Minotaur’s story, especially given that this is her story.

Grade: C+

Demon Lover by Cheyenne McCray

Aedan the incubus comes to women at night, leaving them unsatisfied until they offer their souls to him. Now he has fallen in love with his latest victim Ericka. McCray is competent, but the story lacks originality.

Grade: C

Equinox by L. A. Banks

I’ve tried many times to enjoy Banks’ Vampire Hunter series, but never could. I didn’t expect to like this story, especially because it uses one of my least favorite set-ups. (Woman remains virgin for a long time and decides to give it up almost instantly upon meeting the right man.) Therefore I was very surprised to discover that this is my favorite story of the anthology. Greek goddess Artemis returns to present-day Earth, horrified by what humans are doing to the environment. As she and her nymphs teach various CEOs a lesson, the government dispatches a group of soldiers to stop the ecoterrorists. But Vincent and his men are about to discover something very strange. It’s slightly trippy but oh-so-good.

Grade: A-

Ride A Dark Horse by Susan Krinard

While recovering from her divorce on a ranch, Catalina literally meets the man from her dreams. But why is Andrés so interested? Ride A Dark Horse has a good atmosphere, slightly spooky and very Western. The heroine is a bit too willing to wander about unfamiliar woods at night, but it’s a decent story.

Grade: C

To Die For by Keri Arthur

Grace Rioli and Ethan Garrison, a wolf shifter and a werewolf, are dispatched to a small town to solve the murder of a couple of adolescent boys. It’s a good mystery until the author suddenly points out a flaw in the logic used to reach the solution at the end. It weakens the story and might not have if considered earlier by the characters.

Grade: B-

Curse of the Dragon’s Tears by Heidi Betts

Laura Tomescu dreams of the man her grandmother cursed. Now she has gone to Dougal McKay’s castle to free him. The story draws some of its inspiration from the Beauty and the Beast tale. Another enjoyable but largely forgettable entry.

Grade: C-

Brother’s Keeper by Lilith Saintcrow

Selene receives a call from Danny, her brother, that sends her running to his side only to find him murdered. Saintcrow quickly develops interesting characters and background, but then she drops the ball. There’s no resolution to the romance or to the mystery. Brother’s Keeper reads like the first chapters of a novel, not like a short story. Where’s the rest?

Grade: C-

(Like A) Virgin of the Spring by Susan Sizemore and Denise Little

Time travel, psychics, and the Matter of Britain all in one short story. Psychic Ginger’s team got lost in the past, but Bern’s team has come to the rescue. (Like A) Virgin of the Spring starts slow, but has some neat ideas and it’s fun to play spot-the-Arthurian-reference. Might not be for those who don’t have at least a cursory knowledge of the Matter of Britain.

Grade: C

Life is the Teacher by Carrie Vaughn

This story is the only one I completely forgot. The second time I read it I had to get several pages in before I remembered anything about it. Emma is a new vampire adjusting to her way of life as she encounters old boyfriend Chris. Vaughn’s writing is fine but the story is too slight, even for a short. I’m already forgetting Emma and her world again.

Grade: C-

Dirty Magic by Kim Harrison

I love Kim Harrison’s novels, but her novellas and short stories are far weaker. Dirty Magic follows Mia, a banshee (similar to a psychic vampire in the story), as she visits old lover Tom and seeks energy for her daughter. The ending has a nice twist that makes me like the story, but it could fit much better tonally.

Grade: B-

Overall grade: C

The Summary:

Beyond the boundaries of the everyday is an unseen realm where anything you imagine is possible. Your demon lover is waiting for you in the shadows, ready to fulfill your secret wishes and most dangerous fantasies. Here passion has a face and form both titillating and terrifying—and love has teeth and claws. Get ready to give in to your craving for something exquisitely dark . . . and different.

Hotter Than Hell gathers together a baker’s dozen of today’s boldest and best authors of supernatural fiction and paranormal romance in a breathtaking anthology that blends black magic with red-hot desire. From the tantalizing tale of a conflicted psychic vampire driven by a powerful, savage love to the strange saga of a Greek warrior woman battling to save the world, these are stories outside the limits, as hypnotic as the full moon . . . and hotter than the sun.

Limecello’s review of Mr. and Mistress (The Elliots, Book 5) by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire on 1 May 06

I’ve been reading this series piece meal for more than two years now, and I’m wondering why I didn’t read this one sooner. Heidi Betts is a relatively new to me author, and I’m really enjoying her books. I’m definitely going to continue reading both the books in her back list, as well as her new ones.

Misty Vale is an ex-Vegas showgirl, and a mistress. She teaches dance, but her lover bought the building houses both her and her dance studio. She’s not a typical mistress, however, because she doesn’t have a mercenary bone in her body. In fact, she agrees to the loose arrangement with Cullen Elliot because… well she loves him.

Cullen Elliot is one of the Elliot’s, from the publishing family in New York. He’s uber rich, and only 27. He’s also known as the playboy of the family, dating actresses, heiresses, and models, alike. Even with such gorgeous women on his arm, he still can’t get over his Vegas girlfriend, and they’ve had an open relationship for four years.

Misty doesn’t think they can have a relationship because she’s older than him, and well, a former show girl. His family will never accept her. She makes sweeping statements and assumptions, but I could understand what her point was. However, I did question to some degree how or why she felt so unworthy. She loved her career, and is not ashamed of it at all. I suppose I don’t see why someone’s bankroll should have any sort of impact on a person’s worth as a human being.

Cullen has a deeply ingrained sense of responsibility, and when he finds out Misty is pregnant with his child, he proposes immediately. She refuses him, but he convinces her to go home with him to NYC. They have a great relationship, and Cullen’s family is actually very accepting of Misty. It takes a while, but Cullen realizes how he feels about Misty. His family needles him a bit, and Misty makes him work for it (always nice to see). The only thing that detracted from the book, albeit slightly, is that it’s due to being in a series, is the secondary characters involving random occurrences and events.

This book doesn’t have unnecessary angst or heavy conflict, and it’s a short enjoyable read. I liked Cullen and Misty’s story, and although it’s part of a series, it definitely works as a stand alone book. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes Silhouette Desire categories, and especially anyone who read any of The Elliots series.

Grade: B-

HIS PREGNANT MISTRESS

She was his kept woman…a secret lover living in Las Vegas luxury. It had been an ideal situation—until Misty Vale discovered she was carrying Cullen Elliott’s child.

Misty was not the type of woman a millionaire like Cullen could ever take as his wife. Her past was scandalous…his family above reproach. How could she ever tell him she was having his baby?

But Cullen had ways of finding things out. And he wasn’t about to allow his heir to be born on the wrong side of the bed!

The Elliotts: Mixing business with pleasure!

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of When the Lights Go Down by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire on 1 Oct 05

I love romances where opposites attract. That and Plain Jane stories. This is a great book that has both, and is extremely well written. I’ve been on a Heidi Betts kick – well, I went and got my hands on all the Heidi Betts books I could after a recommendation, and this book is by far my favorite thus far. I think it’ll keep its place.

Gwen Thomas is turning 31, and she’s giving herself a man as a present. Well, actually, she’s determined to see how “the other side” lives -and she only has 24 hours to do it. She’s a librarian, who has a simple but satisfying life, but… she’s never had sex. She’s determined to change that before letting yet another year of her life slip by.

Generally, the premise of such a book would irritate me. It’d be too fake and contrived. Not so with When the Lights Go Down. Gwen’s transformation is very realistic, and she remains true to herself. That is, just because she gets new hair, new clothes, a new look, her personality remains the same. She doesn’t suddenly turn into a vamp or sex kitten. Her beauty doesn’t suddenly strike the NFL quarterback walking into the club and he doesn’t sweep her off her feet. No.

What happens is she gets a bit schwily, and almost goes home with the wrong guy. Luckily, the owner of the club she’s in has noticed the smarmy guy putting his tired routine on her, and saves her. Ethan Banks actually owns the night club the Hot Spot (cheesy name, but that’s okay). He’s pretty happy as a play boy, but something about Gwen just attracts him. He knows she’s different from the usual hookup he has, but the tables are turned when after one night together, he wakes up to an empty bed. He doesn’t really like that, and decides to follow up on his mystery woman.

For her part, Gwen is in limbo. She’s finally had sex, and with someone she considers way out of her league – but Ethan seems to actually and earnestly want a relationship with her. She thinks he’s after the sexy sophisticate she appeared to be that night in the club, but doesn’t realize that he easily and immediately saw through all of that.

This is a terrific book, sweet and simple, romance in it’s purest form describing the budding and random relationship between two (relatively) normal people, living their normal every day lives. As a quick plug, I have to say I love Georgetown. I will say however, that it sticks in my head more as a “younger” hang out – but then maybe that’s because of the whole college town mentality. The fact that this book is set in Georgetown is just an added bonus.

After reading this book, I wished it was a person, or a plushie so I could hug it. Seriously, this book put a huge smile on my face and I just wanted to stay up and read more books to continue the book joy, regardless of the fact that it was 3 AM and my body sorely protested. I highly recommend reading this book. If you’re a book snob and don’t read Harlequin romances, you need to get off your high horse, read this book and see what you’ve been missing.

Grade: A-

Today is Gwen Thomas’s 31st birthday. She’s given herself T-minus 24-hours to change her life.

8 a.m Call out sick from the library
8:01 Scour yellow pages for Emergency Beauty Technicians
10 – noon Hair. Good-bye mousy. Hello, auburn.
noon – 1 p.m. Nails. Be bold!
2 – 3 Makeup. Nix au naturel for Notice-Me.
3 – 5 Shopping. Trade dated look for date-able.
10 Arrive at The Hot Spot. Pretend you’ve gone clubbing before.
11 Fight polyester lizard’s advances-and the disappointment of a failed mission
11:30 Revel in being rescued by Ethan Banks. Don’t let the sexy club owner’s chivalry prevent mission completion
When the lights go down Lose virginity…finally!

In the light of a new day, something had indeed changed for Gwen: She was in over her head…

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Bought by a Millionaire by Heidi Betts
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire on 1 Feb 05

I’m pretty sure I’ve never read a book by Heidi Betts before, and I’m not particularly sure why. (I’m a big fan of the Silhouette Desire categories.) I found this book very enjoyable. The plot and the characters were all unlike other stories I’ve read, in an extremely favorable manner.

The premise of this book is unusual – the hero and heroine enter into a business deal – Burke Bishop wants to be a father, and Shannon Moriarity is the woman he chooses to be the mother of his child. Effectively, she’s a surrogate. Shannon goes through a vigorous interview process, examinations by doctors, background checks, grades starting from kindergarten, the works. She’s your average woman, with a spine of steel. She’s 26 and a student, because she took two years off to take care of her mom. Shannon also works two jobs in order to keep her mom in an assisted living center.

Burke is your typical romance hero – successful, well rounded, and emotionally stunted. He’s completely competent in every area, other than knowing how he feels, or how to deal with his feelings. To his credit, he’s attracted to Shannon from the start, and pursues her in an entirely charming and respectful way.

The chemistry between Shannon and Burke is explosive, but they’re both well grounded and their story is realistic. Shannon tries to resist the attraction she feels to Burke because she knows a relationship between the two of them will never work. Burke is extremely solicitous, not just because Shannon is pregnant with his child and he’s attracted to her, but because he’s a genuinely nice guy. While he’s a major business mogul, he’s a regular guy, and willing to stop and take care of the things that are truly important in life – people.

A short read, but very satisfying. The way the relationship develops between Shannon and Burke is extremely fast, but natural. The two create sparks from the start. I also like how they were each willing to stand up for themselves, and be honest. If you like Desires, I definitely recommend this book – I plan on reading Ms. Bett’s back list as well.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Millionaire Bachelor Seeks Heir

Chicago’s Most Eligible Bachelor, Burke Bishop, wanted a child-but didn’t want to be shackled by marriage. Surrogacy seemed the only solution, and when he met gorgeous Shannon Moriarity, he knew he’d found the perfect mother for his baby. For reasons she wouldn’t say, Shannon accepted his high-price offer and requested they keep things strictly business.

They conceived without touching, yet Burke found himself craving Shannon’s warmth and demanded she move into his penthouse. Soon, the close quarters elevated their relationship into intimate territory where neither could deny the bond they shared. But when their contract was fulfilled, would they find a prize richer than money could buy?

Read an excerpt here.

Seven-Year Seduction by Heidi Betts

I have all of Heidi Betts books. Yes shocking . Hey but I have even read some of them! She falls into the fun historical column, at least the ones I have read. And I have to say I read her more because I love her h/h than anything else.

So when I learned she was moving to Silhouette Desire I do have to say I was sad. But I put it down as something to look at for and then forgot.

When I ran across the AAR review for Blame it on the Blackout I was hooked and had to find that book! And once I did I loved it. In fact I currently have two copies . Bought by a Millionaire was just as great and even though I didn’t enjoy When the Lights Go Down as much as the first two I still was on the look out for Seven-Year Seduction.

In fact her move to Desire was one of the reasons I decided I really needed to branch out and read more lines than HH. So far Heidi Betts is the only Desire author I watch for but I do have a few more to try. She also has Mr. and Mistress, coming out in May. It is book five of The Elliotts. Give her a try, you might find a new author to read and a new line to look into.

This was my fourth Desire read. And by far one of my faves. I think I have decided to stick to Blaze and HH but will keep up with Heidi Betts’ Desires.

I am still looking for Blame it on the Blackout but that is another post.

Heidi Betts is one of those authors I have glommed her blacklist while having read one or two. And let me just ssssqqqqqeeeeeeeeee that she has a sort of western coming out. Not a historical western (wipes tear from eye), but the contemporary hero is a rancher so hey that is something. Why in the world Leisure seems to think the world needs more Cassie Edwards and Connie Mason but can’t buy a historical western from Heidi Betts is beyond me. Of course maybe HB doesn’t want to write a HW but I can dream.

Anyway back to BBaM… The plot is pretty much this:
Man with too much money and a habit of getting his way decides to have a baby and puts out an ad for a mommy.

Burke Bishop doesn’t want a wife and marriage, just a bundle of joy to love. Shannon Moriarity signs up to be the surrogate mommy but honestly I don’t think either one of them have thought out what this action will mean to the rest of their lives.

But whatever, I liked the characters. And I liked them together. Desires read to me as being about the characters more than about whatever outside factors are going on.

It is a quick enjoyable read with people I enjoyed spending time with, for the most part. Burke is very alpha pushy I have too much money do what I say damn it and Shannon is very let me be your doormat at times. But shake them up and they make for a tasty cocktail. Now I really need to get my hands on Blame it on the Blackout.

oh cool, she has a blog