Holly’s review of Pride and Pleasure by Sylvia Day
Historical Romance published by Brava 25 Jan 11

Heiress Eliza Martin has decided this will be her last season. She has no desire to marry and her uncle has agreed she doesn’t need to if she’s totally set against it. Unfortunately, it seems like someone is trying to force her hand. She’s suffered a series of unfortunate events over the course of several months and feels like she needs protection for this season. A Bow Street Runner, who feels he isn’t right for the job, refers her to a thief taker instead, Jasper Bond. Eliza knows right away that he’s wrong for the job – no one would believe she would be interested in someone like him.

Jasper is insistent, however. Not only is he intrigued by the plain-spoken Eliza, but it just so happens one of her suitors (suspects) is the man he’s been trying to take revenge against for years. Surprisingly, though, it’s Eliza who captures his attention, not the case. As time progresses he really comes to care for her..but is it enough for him to set aside his plot for revenge?

Quite a few things in this book took me by surprise. There are several things I predicted were going to happen that didn’t. Eliza, for example. She’s leery about marriage, thanks to growing up with a mother who prized passion and love more than anything else. She’s learned to be distrustful of men and their motives and really has no desire to be attached to one. So I thought she’d have a fit when she realizes Jasper isn’t everything he claims to be, but Day really takes things in an unexpected – and welcome – direction. Another concern is that Jasper would push Eliza away, thinking it’s “for her own good.” But again Day surprises me. I truly enjoyed both main characters and the way they fall into love with one another.

The villain isn’t hard to figure out, but I’m surprised by the motives of some of the other characters. It isn’t often that I don’t see a twist coming, so it’s kind of refreshing here to see not all is as it appears.

Overall I find this to a pleasant read with a strong romance and likable characters.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Wealth has its dangers…

There are disadvantages to being an heiress, as Eliza Martin knows well. Fortune hunters flock to her, acquaintances lie and pander, and lately, someone is engineering “accidents” to propel her to the altar. But Eliza will not be bullied, and she will get to the bottom of this plot. All she needs is a man to infiltrate her assemblage of suitors and find the culprit. Someone not easily noticed; a proficient dancer, quiet, and even-tempered.

…so do certain men

Thief-taker Jasper Bond is entirely too large, too handsome, and too dangerous. Who would believe that an intellectual like Eliza would be seduced by a man of action? But the combination of her stubbornness and the mystery makes the case one Jasper can’t resist. Client satisfaction is a point of pride and it’s his pleasure to prove he’s just the man she needs after all…

Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of If He’s Wild (Wherlocke 3) by Hannah Howell
Historical Paranormal Romance released by Zebra 25 May 2010

It’s no secret that I’m a total Hannah Howell fangirl. I own every book she’s ever written – and multiple copies of my favorites. I stopped reading the Murray series awhile back because I felt it was becoming very repetitive, but that hasn’t stopped me from buying them.

Because she’s become kind of repetitive, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new series. I read the second book, If He’s Sinful, and enjoyed it, but the slow pacing bothered me. The first in the series, If He’s Wicked, I can’t seem to recall right now (I think I read it, but the details are hazy). I’m thinking I’ll go back and re-read it now, however. The pacing issues of the second book were cleared up in this one, and I really enjoyed the overall story and the characters.

Alethea is a strong woman, but not as in-your-face about it as many other Howell heroines. She has a core of inner strength, but she isn’t a warrior or a fighter. Her strength is more emotional. Each of the members of her family, The Vaughns, and their close relations, The Wherlockes, have some kind of special “gift”. Alethea’s is visions. If she touches something belonging to someone else she will often have visions of that person and what they were doing while touching the item. She also has “knowings” or strong feelings about things to come. She doesn’t really see the future, so much as have visions of things that have happened or might happen in the future.

This isn’t always easy for people to accept, so she’s concerned about how the Marquis of Redgrave will react when she comes to tell him she’s had a vision of him dying. I understood her reluctance to share, and the reasons why her family is so reclusive and secretive about their gifts, but it was harped on a bit too much, IMO. Once the point was made, it could have been dropped.

Hartley was my favorite type of hero. He was strong and capable, yet willing to acknowledge his softer emotions. He cared greatly for his family, and he makes no secret about wanting a true marriage with Alethea. He doesn’t really believe in love, but he believes in companionship, trust, loyalty and fidelity. He’s protective, but not smothering. Best of all, he appreciates Alethea’s gift and those of her family. It took a bit of convincing, but once he realizes the truth behind what they can do, he’s totally supportive.

The suspense aspect was interesting, only because the villains are well known right from the start. The trouble comes from figuring out a way to expose them, since most of the knowledge of their misdeeds come from Alethea and her family’s gifts. Though I will say the villains are typical for Howell, and not surprising in the least. Sometimes I wonder if she doesn’t particularly like women, or if she’s just trying to prove the point that women can be worse than men and they shouldn’t be underestimated. Maybe a combination of the two?

Overall I enjoyed the story. The characters were well drawn and delightful, especially Alethea and her family. I was somewhat disappointed in Hartley’s niece and nephew, though. I expected them to be more traumatized than they were. I would have liked to see that aspect explored a bit more.

Grade: B+

She Sees His Face Everywhere…

Lady Alethea Vaughn Channing is haunted by a vision of a man in danger—the same man who she has seen in dreams time and time again. She doesn’t even know his name, and yet she feels the connection between them, knows she is the only one standing between him and disaster.

…Yet They Have Never Met

But rakish Lord Hartley Greville is capable of protecting himself, as he has proven more than once in his perilous work as a spy for the crown. If he’s to carry out his duty, he’ll need to put aside the achingly beautiful woman with the strange gift. And yet, when Alethea’s visions reveal a plot that could endanger children, Hartley will not be able to ignore the destiny that binds them together—or resist the passion burning between them…

Read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of If He’s Sinful by Hannah Howell
Historical Paranormal Romance released by Zebra 01 Dec 2009

I’m really glad to see Howell moving away from her Murray series and into new territory. Though I am concerned that she’s planning to exchange one large, eccentric family for another.

I enjoyed this for the most part. I was annoyed that the characters seemed to act so slowly, for it’s obvious early on who the villain is. Even so, I understood their reasons – they couldn’t act without proof. It just seemed it took them a rather long time to realize they needed to get it.

Penelope was a typical Howell heroine – strong and feisty. I really enjoyed her. She knows her family is odd, and doesn’t blame Ashton for not believing in the things they can do. She did her best to care for her cousins and I really appreciated her strong sense of family and doing the right thing.

Ashton was somewhat of a stick-in-the-mud, but I think that worked within the context of the story. He was conservative and not willing to jump to conclusions or act without proof. I think he was just what Penelope needed. He believed in her, but also tempered her and her family’s need to rush into things without thought.

It really made me angry that her family dumped all their unwanted kids on Penelope. I know things weren’t quite as they seemed in the beginning (Spoiler: The family was sending money and such even though Penelope didn’t get it: END) but it was still frustrating that they went so long without bothering to check in on her, or see how their children were. I was glad to see that was addressed in the end, however.

Although there are many dark elements, the novel is lightened by Penelope’s brothers and cousins. I really want to read about the rest of Ashton’s friends, especially Brant. I hope as the series continues Howell comes back to them.

Grade: B

Secrecy and intrigue ignite dangerous passions in “New York Times” bestselling author Hannah Howell’s seductive new novel…

It is whispered throughout London that the members of the Wherlocke family are possessed of certain unexplainable gifts. But Lord Ashton Radmoor is skeptical – until he finds an innocent beauty lying drugged and helpless in the bedroom of a brothel. The mystery woman is Penelope Wherlocke, and her special gift of sight is leading her deep into a dangerous world of treachery and betrayal. Ashton knows he should forget her, yet he’s drawn deeper into the vortex of her life, determined to keep her safe. But Penelope is no ordinary woman, and she’s never met the man strong enough to contend with her unusual abilities. Until now…

Read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of The Daddy Audition by Cindi Myers a(caution – sound on the site)
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin American Romance 14 Jul 09

I enjoyed the basic premise of this story: heroine leaves to pursue her dreams and leaves high school sweetheart behind. Now she’s back and so is their attraction. 

I liked both characters up until a certain point, but then the way they refused to talk to each other and their personal insecurities started to annoy me. I understood Tanya’s reasons for leaving, just as I understood Jack’s for letting her. But as the story progressed, I became frustrated with both of them.

Jack didn’t think he could put himself out there because he didn’t know how she felt, while Tanya was suffering the same issue. By the end I was pretty fed up with both of them, though the heroine more than the hero. Mostly because she was the one who ran and refused to put herself out there in high school, and spent most of the book pushing him away again.

The parts with Tanya’s daughter were cute, but she didn’t play a very large part in the story. At times she almost seemed like a filler – there to take up space rather than enhance the story. That really disappointed me because I felt there was a lot of potential there to really highlight the character of both Tanya and Jack.

Overall not bad, but not great either.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Tanya Bledso couldn’t wait to leave Crested Butte to chase dreams of Hollywood stardom. Now the single mom has returned to run the local theater and raise her daughter. But the peaceful, charming town she took for granted has exploded into a bustling tourist attraction, thanks to one man.

Jack Crenshaw. Property developer extraordinaire…and her former high school sweetheart.

Ten years hasn’t cooled the heat between them. Worse, Jack is bonding with her daughter and giving her the crazy idea he’d make the perfect family man. But is he ready to forgive and forget the heartbreak of the past for the role he seems born to play?

Read an excerpt here.

Holly’s review of Taming the Texas Tycoon by Katherine Garbera (author’s site very out of date)
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire 14 Jul 09

I liked this story on a superficial level. If I start examining the motives or actions of the main characters I have major issues. As a fluff story – something quick to pass the time – it was good, but there were a lot of flaws. 

My main gripe is the heroine’s complete lack of identity away from the hero. Also, the fact that the hero was engaged to someone else for the entire length of the novel really turned me off, even though the circumstances were explained well enough.

Although I liked Lance, I didn’t see why Kate loved him. He was sweet enough to her, but he seemed pretty conceited and wrapped up in himself. He didn’t even notice her until she got a complete makeover. That has worked for stories in the past, but I didn’t buy it in the case. Mostly because he considered her a best friend and one of his family. I’d think he’d take more notice of her than as his assistant if that was really the case.

As for Kate, well, I liked her on a superficial level. But like I mentioned above, if I look at her too closely I just get annoyed. It seemed in the beginning that she had a backbone, but as the story progressed I began to wonder. She really seemed like a dishrag once her initial burst of steam dissipated. Not only that, but we knew nothing about her as a person. Her entire identity was wrapped up in her feelings for Lance.

It was obvious that something was going on between Lance’s fiance and his brother. despite my feelings for this one, I’d be interested in reading that story.

Grade: C

Summary:

For Texas Cattleman’s Club member Lance Brody, marriage is about gaining the right connections. But one plain-Jane personal assistant is about to change his mind…

For years Kate Thornton had dreamed of becoming Mrs. Lance Brody. Then her boss became engaged strictly for business and Kate had had enough. Giving her two weeks’ notice should have released her, but Lance’s eyes had finally been opened. Kate couldn’t be allowed to walk away from the business, or him. And if it meant taking her to bed to keep her…well, that was one job he would gladly do himself!

Read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of Texas Wedding by Kathleen O’Brien
Contemporary Romance released by Harlequin SuperRomance 14 Jul 09

I’m still formulating my thoughts about this one. I generally enjoy the reunited lovers plot line, but this couple was bitter and angry. 

Susannah especially rubbed me wrong. She was bitter and angry, and her actions throughout didn’t speak well of her. She did her level best to treat Trent like shit, then complained when he didn’t fall all over her. Basically she was a complete and total bitch. This was explained away because of Trent’s actions in the past, but that was 11 years ago. I really felt like there should have been more growth on her part.

Trent I liked quite a bit better. He admitted what he did was wrong and tried to make up for it. He wasn’t afraid to say he didn’t have all the answers. He was tired of running and just wanted to put his life back together, which included making peace with Susannah and things that happened in their past.

Having said that, I didn’t read any of the previous books in this series and I get the impression I missed a lot of backstory. It could be my impressions would be different if I read the previous books. I’m still trying to decide if I’m going to do that. We’ll see.

Grade: D

Summary:

The days of Susannah Everly dreaming about white dresses, churches and Trent Maxwell are long gone. So it’s more than a little funny that she finds herself actually married to the guy. But she’s determined to save the family ranch by any means possible, and if Trent is those means…

Still, they both know the deal. This is a business arrangement and there are rules. Rules that do not include rekindling those old feelings or surprise midnight seductions. So what’s Susannah to do when Trent seems determined to break their agreement? Especially when what he offers is way too tempting.

Read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of Burn by Linda Howard
Romantic Suspense released by Ballantine 7 July 09

I’ve been disappointed in most of Linda Howard’s more recent releases, but I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It reminded me quite a bit of All the Queen’s Men. Kind of light on the romance and heavy on the storyline, but still oddly satisfying. 

I really liked the beginning of the book. Though it was kind of drawn out, I enjoyed getting to know Jenner and seeing the circumstances behind her winning the lottery. I think it really gave insight into the character she was and how she changed because of betrayals along the way.

Jenner was strong and levelheaded. Right from the beginning I liked her and was cheering her on. She was just your average ordinary girl who had something extraordinary happen to her. As the novel progresses into the second half we see that she’s changed quite a bit. She’s more jaded and cynical, though her core has remained the same. I liked that most of all, I think. Her core remained the same.

Cael is another story entirely. I never really felt like I got to know him despite the amount of time we spent in his head. I guess we got a feel for the basics, but I would have liked to see more of his backstory. Though it’s noted right from the start that his motives aren’t what they appear, I still wondered if he’d cross the line.

I was concerned that the resolution between Jenner and Cael wouldn’t be quite satisfactory, but I was pleased with the way it turned out. I felt they worked well together.

The storyline was interesting because it took place almost exclusively on a cruise ship. The suspense plot didn’t contain much mystery – the villain was introduced almost immediately – but it still worked. I’m sure if I thought long enough I could find plenty of holes in the story, but the truth is I was entertained enough that I didn’t care.

Grade: B

Summary:

It’s true what they say: Money changes everything. And in Linda Howard’s red-hot novel Burn, the changes come fast, furious, and filled with the kind of sexy suspense, heart-stopping romance, beautiful people, and risky business guaranteed to give you the most bang for your buck.

Money certainly changes Jenner Redwine’s life when she wins a lottery jackpot. But it also costs her plenty: Her father rips her off and disappears, her fortune-hunting boyfriend soon becomes her ex, and friends-turned-freeloaders give her the cold shoulder when she stops paying for everything.

Flush with new money, Jenner can’t imagine ever finding a place in the world of the wealthy. Seven years later, though, she’s rubbing elbows with the rich, despite the fact she still feels like a party crasher. Luckily she finds an ally – and a guide to the rarefied realm of privilege – in shy, kind-hearted heiress Sydney Hazlett, who quickly becomes Jenner’s confidante and surrogate sister.

When Sydney invites Jenner on a charity cruise aboard a luxury liner, Jenner reluctantly agrees. But while she’s expecting – and dreading – two weeks of masquerade balls, art auctions, and preening glitterati, what she gets is more like a Hitchcock movie than a Love Boat episode. Taken hostage by a menacing stranger, Jenner must cooperate in a mysterious cloak-and-dagger scheme – or else. With nowhere to run, and with Sydney’s life as well as her own at risk, Jenner is drawn into a game of dizzying intrigue and harrowing danger. But as her panic gives way to exhilaration, and fear of her captor turns to fascination, Jenner rediscovers feelings she hasn’t had in years – and realizes she’s found a life worth living. If she survives.

Read an excerpt here (click on the book cover).

Holly‘s review of Inherited: One Child by Day Leclaire
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette Desire 14 Jul 09

I’m always looking for new authors to try when I browse eHarlequin.com and the blurb for this one caught my eye. I’m glad I picked it up, because it turned out to be a good read. This story is told almost completely from the hero’s point of view. That was kind of refreshing. Too often I think we spend too much time in the heroine’s head speculating about the hero. 

Jack wasn’t much of a parental figure to his niece, Isabella, in the beginning. He didn’t know how to relate to her and honestly I don’t think he wanted to. Finding a nanny to marry was the solution that kept him from having to get his hands dirty. Naturally at first I wasn’t very impressed with him, but once Annalise explained that he needed to be more hands on, he really got into the spirit of things. I liked watching him fall in love with his niece. And her nanny.

He and Annalise were really good together. I think she forced him to realize what was important and to take time away from work to relax. I really got a good sense of him and what made him tick, so I wasn’t surprised or upset when he acted cold or gruff. It just added another layer to him and the story.

I liked that Annalise jumped right in with Isabella. She didn’t shy away from standing up to Jack or making sure he knew what was important to Isabella. She was strong and capable. Her reaction to Jack’s proposal really seemed to fit with her personality. Up until the end, I thought she was great and his perfect match. But more about that later.

I had issues with a few technical things in the plot. For example: I doubt a social worker, who was having serious doubts about the well-being of the child, would have no problem leaving said child in the home as long as it was a couple instead of a single. Especially since the time frame was like 6 weeks. So in 6 weeks uncle meets nanny, talks her into marrying him so he can keep niece, and case worker believes it’s a HEA and decides to leave child in home? I was able to suspend disbelief enough to read the story, but it always niggled at the back of my mind.

Aside from that I didn’t have any complaints about this book – until the very end. Then the heroine drops a bomb that really had a WTF-type quality. Because of clues the author dropped throughout, I had a feeling it was going to happen. Even so, my reaction was W.T.F., and not in a good way. Especially because the heroine was the one who screwed up, but it was the hero who had to apologize. She walked away and he went chasing after her. That made NO FREAKING SENSE.

I’m just going to spoil it. Skip the next part if you don’t want to know…..

***SPOILERS***

The niece was adopted by Jack’s sister and BIL. As it turns out, Annalise, the heroine, is her biological mother. Annalise decided to get a job working for Jack to make sure he was taking care of her little girl.

Which works, I suppose. The problem for me was that when the truth finally came out, Annalise stormed off and Jack had to chase after her, at which time he apologized to her for getting upset with her. I didn’t understand that at all, because it was HER who lied. She was the one who kept that secret from him. At that point he’d already confessed he wanted a real marriage with her, so her storming off and saying she wouldn’t come back unless he agreed to a real marriage made no sense.

***END SPOILERS***

Aside from that twist at the end I really enjoyed this story. Unfortunately the twist – and the way the characters dealt with it – is going to detract from my grade.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Billionaire businessman Jack Mason had devised the perfect strategy for keeping custody of his orphaned niece. He’d hire the right nanny and seduce her into marrying him. It should prove easy enough. He was, after all, irresistible.

Annalise Stefano was ideal. The attractive new nanny had quickly bonded with the little girl. And Jack was anticipating their wedding night more than he’d imagined. Even so, he couldn’t have predicted that Annalise wouldn’t want to become his wife. Or that the secret she was keeping could jeopardize his plans for creating the perfect family….

Read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of A Fortune Wedding by Kristin Hardy
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette Special Edition 1 June 2009

I really tried to like this book. Two things marred my enjoyment: 1) the fact that I hadn’t read any of the previous books and 2) the heroine. There were many things that were referenced in this book that I didn’t understand because I hadn’t read any of the previous ones.

Frannie’s husband is murdered and her whole world changes. She’d been living under his thumb for years and now she doesn’t know what to do. She wants to become an independent woman, wants to take control of her life, but she doesn’t really know how. I can appreciate that. I understood that her life had been turned upside down, but rather than dealing with it she just stuck her head in the sand and refused to do anything. She whined and complained when Roberto offered to help her, and complained when he tried to support her, but she did nothing to make her life her own.

I can’t stand a whiny heroine. It’s annoying and frustrating when she complains about her situation but does nothing to change it. I found it interesting that she was willing to look the other way and not take charge with anyone but the hero. Which means she basically just pushed him away the whole book. For no good reason.

Roberto I liked. He was hurt by Frannie in the past, but he was willing to step up and help her regardless. He was definitely the more stable and logical of the pair. I liked that he was willing to stand with Frannie even though she was a total mess. Unfortunately, that was also one of the things that turned me off from him, too. As the book progressed and Frannie acted more and more like a spoiled child, I lost respect for Roberto and the way he kept trying to be in her life. There comes a point when enough is enough, and I thought Frannie crossed that point early in the book.

I was surprised at the twist the plot took toward the end. Finding out what happened with Frannie’s dead husband was what kept me reading. I enjoyed the way the story played out. Otherwise, I can’t offer much to recommend this story.

Grade: D

Summary:

Once, he was her whole world…

…until Roberto Mendoza left Frannie Fortune and their hometown far behind. But she was no longer the seventeen-year-old in love with the smoldering ranch hand. She was a woman accused of murdering her husband.

When he left Red Rock nineteen years ago, Roberto swore he would never return. But when an unseen enemy threatened the Mendoza clan, he found himself charging to Frannie’s rescue, determined to help her clear her name. And when passion reignited—hotter and more powerful than before—Roberto knew he’d do anything to heal the past and build a future with the woman who’d always belong to him.

The woman he’d never stopped loving.

Read an excerpt for A Fortune Wedding

Holly‘s review of Make Me Yours by Betina Krahn
Historical romance released by Harlequin Blaze 1 July 2009

Before I go into my review, I have to tell you that it annoys the crap out of me that the Blaze line now includes historical and paranormal novels. In the past Blaze has always been sexy, contemporary romances. That’s what I expect when I pick up a Blaze. 95% of the time I don’t even look at the blurb, just throw it in my cart based on the “Blaze” logo and the author’s name. Messing with reader expectations is never a good idea. Just saying.

Moving on to the review….

I love Betina Krahn. She kind of fell off my radar a year or so ago, and I’m really bummed about it. I love how true she stays to the historical time period she writes about. This wasn’t necessarily a comfortable storyline. Watching the hero follow around after the heroine while she finds a husband who won’t care she’s going to be mistress to the prince is unconventional to say the least. The fact that Krahn makes it work is a testament to her ability as an author.

I really liked Mariah. She was stuck between a rock and a hard place so she made the best possible decision she could. I really enjoyed her wit and humor. The way she played the situation to her advantage was hilarious.

Jack was a strong character who had strong convictions and a deep sense of right and wrong, but that didn’t transfer well at first. His attraction to Mariah is frustrating to him because he knows he can’t have what the prince has already claimed for himself. I really enjoyed his inner struggle, because it really gave us more insight into his character. He seemed like a stick in the mud, but watching his passion come unleashed was worth the wait.

The two of them were really good together. They had great chemistry that really came across the pages. I was definitely rooting for them as the story progressed.

The storyline here was unique and though a bit uncomfortable at times, I was impressed overall. The heroine was refreshing and a perfect match with the hero.

Grade A

Summary:
Mariah Eller was only trying to save her inn from being trashed. So how did the widow manage to attract the unwanted—and erotic—attention of the Prince of Wales? Not that being desired by royalty is necessarily bad… Only, Mariah much prefers the prince’s best friend….

Jack St. Lawrence is very tempting, and very loyal. And he knows that the prince gets involved only with married women. So he figures sexy Mariah is safe…until the prince demands Jack find her a husband!

The problem? Jack and Mariah can’t fight their sizzling attraction. And once they give in to their desires, the situation is even worse. Because the prince’s man has found a husband for Mariah.

Himself…

Holly‘s review of Magnate’s Make-Believe Mistress by Bronwyn Jameson
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire 14 July 2009

I don’t believe I’ve read many (if any) book by Bronwyn Jameson before. The name sounds familiar, but I’m not sure if that’s because I’ve heard it from others (most likely Wendy) or from my own experience. Either way, I’ll be looking for more in the future.

I wasn’t sure about Isabelle when the story first opened, but I was won over as we learned more about her. She seemed kind of wishy-washy at first, but it wasn’t long before we were given more insight into her character. I like that she was a family-oriented person and wasn’t willing to compromise herself or her morals for anyone. That really showed strength.

Cristo started out like many category heroes – jaded, cynical and totally arrogant. I was surprised then that his behavior afterward didn’t support my initial opinion of him. He really surprised me with the tenderness and caring he showed Isabelle. In the end, he capitulated way easier than I would have expected. I was pleasantly surprised.

I didn’t really understand his reasoning behind going to Australia himself, however. It seemed incongruous that a millionaire magnate would check something like this out on his own. He’d have lackey’s to do that for him, I think. That part didn’t make sense to me.

I was really interested in seeing how things turned out with the overall storyline. In the end I was surprised at the twist the story took, but can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

My only other complaint was the timeline. I believe the story spans about two weeks from beginning to end. I don’t believe that’s long enough to really make the HEA totally believable. Suspending disbelief I was able to get past that, but it did detract a bit from my overall enjoyment.

Grade B

Her new client was devilishly handsome, superbly charming…and absolutely hiding something. Why else would a man as rich and powerful as Cristo Verón have any interest in the cleaning services of lowly Isabelle Browne? Her suspicions were confirmed when she discovered his real reason for hiring her. And suddenly, she was agreeing to a preposterous proposition….

Cristo would protect his family at any cost—and keeping Isabelle close was key to his plan. Having her pose as his make-believe mistress was step one. But he hadn’t counted on wanting to make the pretense a reality.

Read an excerpt

Holly‘s review of The Doctor’s Surprise Family by Mary J. Forbes
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette 1 May 09

I generally like the ‘reunited lovers’ plot line. Especially if the lovers in question were high school sweethearts. This is the third book in Forbes’ Home to Firewood Island series. I read the first two books and enjoyed them, so I figured I’d like this one as well. Sadly it didn’t work very well for me. 

I expected to like Kat based on her character in the previous books. Unfortunately she didn’t live up to my expectations. She started out strong – though wounded by the loss of her husband – and seemed to just kind of fade out the more attached she became to Dane. I was surprised at her lack of backbone when it came to standing up to Dane. There were several times where I thought he needed to be taken down a peg in regards to her son, or where she needed to push him on the issue of his past and/or their relationship, and she failed. Instead of coming across as strong, it was more like she needed a man to make her complete.

My biggest issue with her, however, was the way she reacted to her mother and the secret she kept. Kat never knew who her father was. Throughout the two books this has been a major source of contention between her and her sisters with their mother. Her mother refused to name the man and Kat spent her whole life feeling like an outsider. The man is finally revealed in this book and Kat’s reaction was..totally flat. After storing 20 years of hate and frustration toward her mother for refusing to tell her who her father was, for her to just say, “eh, ok. I forgive you” seemed totally out of context. I expected quite a bit more from her.

For Dane’s part I thought he had a lot of potential, but I don’t think his PTSD was fully explored. We definitely saw that he was tortured and traumatized by what happened to him in Iraq, but I don’t think the resolution was as well done as the trauma itself. For most of the book he’s closed off and bitter, especially with Kat’s son. While in the end things worked out, I wasn’t completely convinced of his change of heart.

On the other hand, taking on this type of story isn’t easy and I do think Forbes did a good job of showcasing the troubles faced by both Dane and Kat. I just wasn’t convinced of the resolution on either side.

I did enjoy Kat’s relationship with her son. As a former single mother I know how hard it can be to raise a child on your own. Though Kat struggled at times, I think she did a good job of dividing her time between her guests and her son. The relationship between the sisters is also showcased well. I also thought the town and its inhabitants were well written and added flavor to the story.

Although there were parts of this story I liked, overall I was disappointed in the lack of spine shown by the heroine and the way the hero constantly clammed up and refused to speak.

Grade: D+

Summary:
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YOU CAN’T HIDE FOREVER
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When Kat O’Brien saw the rain-soaked stranger pull up on his motorcycle, her instincts went on red-alert. Except he was no stranger. He was Dane Rainhart, hometown war hero…and Kat’s girlhood crush. Now the single mother was more intrigued than ever by this sexy, powerful man who as already bonding with her son.
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After being wounded in the line of duty, Dane needed a place to mend-and hide away from the world. Instead, the haunted military doctor was falling for the much-too-attractive widow and her boy. Perhaps it was time they both faced the past and took a second chance at happiness-together!
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Read an excerpt here (scroll down).

Holly‘s review of The Bravo Bachelor by Christine Rimmer
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Special Edition 1 Apr 09

I really love these “pregnant widow” stories. I don’t know why, exactly, since they often leave me feeling frustrated and annoyed (depending on the heroine’s feelings for her dead husband), but there you have it. Luckily this one worked very well for me.

I really liked Mary. Although the Bravo’s have really been putting pressure on her to sell, she wasn’t intimidated nor did she ever waiver in her desire to keep her ranch. She was practical and down to earth, a plain speaking woman who didn’t beat around the bush or try to play emotional games. I really loved that about her. I also thought her fears that she was moving too quickly with Gabe were spot on. Rimmer didn’t push it too far in either direction, so it really worked.

Gabe was a confirmed bachelor and proud of it. He had no desire to settle down because he liked playing the field too much. But after witnessing the birth of Mary’s baby he realizes there may be more to life than a different woman every night. The more time he spends with them, the more he wants them forever.

I really liked that even though Gabe admitted to himself that he wanted something more meaningful with Mary, he wasn’t really on board with marriage. He was happy to commit himself to her, but he really didn’t want to make it official. I found this to be much more believable than if he’d just done a complete 180. I also loved how, right from the beginning, Gabe jumped in and helped Mary with the baby.

Two things overshadowed my enjoyment somewhat. The first is Gabe’s father. He was determined to get Mary’s farm and was willing to stop at nothing to get it. He even went so far as to threaten her and I’m pretty sure he had every intention of following through had Gabe not stopped him. While I understand there are ruthless businessmen, I couldn’t understand the lengths he was willing to go to. Especially since Mary was a widow with an infant.

The second was the end. Though the final resolution was inevitable (and welcome) I didn’t like how fast it came about, or the circumstances behind it. The whole situation seemed to come out of left field. Then it was wrapped up rather quickly. A few more pages would have really helped, I think.

Otherwise this was a sweet contemporary romance. I enjoyed both the story and characters, despite the few issues I had.

Grade: B+

Summary:
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All Gabe Bravo wanted was to convince Mary Hofstetter to sell him her land. But the young widow had barely told him to hightail it off her property before going into labor. Being an honorable Bravo bachelor, he stayed by her side, even after her little bundle of joy appeared.There was no denying Gabe had declared himself permanently single—and proud of it. But with his feelings for Mary growing deeper, he was suddenly torn: walk away from mother and child, or do what he’d sworn he’d never do—get hitched!
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Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of A Not-So-Perfect Past by Beth Andrews
Contemporary Romance released by Harlequin SuperRomance 14 Apr 09

Beth Andrews is a fairly new Harlequin author, this being her second release with them. I liked the blurb so figured I’d give it a try. I think I may have suffered a bit for not reading her debut novel, Not Without Her Family, since I believe it probably offered quite a bit of backstory on the hero that was absent in this one.

I think Dillon was a very complex character. Because he was convicted of killing his step-father and spent several years in prison he is very cynical and hard. His experiences since he’s been home haven’t done much to change his attitude either. Yet underneath it all, he’s still managed to retain his common decency and innate goodness. Though he’s afraid to reach for it, he craves love and stability just as much as the next person. I loved that though he was a wonderful man underneath he was rough around the edges. Sometimes this works for the heroes of our novels and sometimes it doesn’t. Andrews made it work.

As the book beings we see that Nina is mostly a doormat. Her ex-husband and family run roughshod over her while she sits back and lets them. She thinks to herself that she should be stronger and stand up to them, but she never does. They tell her what to do in regards to everything: Dillon Ward, her tenant that lives above her bakery, her kids, her career, everything. I found myself becoming very frustrated with her for not standing up for herself, but I was furious with her for not standing up for her children. Her ex-husband was very verbally abusive to her and that carried over to her children.

To be fair, I don’t think she realized he was treating her children as badly as he was. Unfortunately that doesn’t do much to take my frustration from her because it was fairly obvious. I think she just didn’t want to see how bad it was. To make matters worse, in an attempt to prove herself – though I’m not quite sure to who – she began to take on massive amounts of work, further bogging herself down and taking her away from her children. She did show quite a bit of growth in the end, but I kind of felt like it was too little, too late.

I like the two of them together. They really brought out the best in each other. Dillon encouraged Nina to stand up for herself and take charge of her own life. She showed him it was okay to open up. Although I disliked the way Nina let other people take advantage of her, I liked that with Dillon’s help she was able to stand strong on her own.

I also really liked her children and the other secondary characters, with the exception of Nina’s ex, who was a complete ass, and her father, who didn’t redeem himself in my eyes. Her older sister and the teenager who has to make restitution by rebuilding her shop with Dillon were great additions, however. I also really enjoyed Dillon’s sister. So much so that I plan to buy her book.

I had issues with Nina, but I think Dillon and the secondary characters saved the story in the end.

Grade: C+

Summary:
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Everyone makes mistakes…but he isn’t looking for redemption
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He’s the most dangerous man she’s ever met…
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Nina Carlson knows all about Dillon Ward. Knows he served time in prison. Knows nobody pulled out the welcome mat when he moved to Serenity Springs. But that doesn’t stop her from renting him a place to live. And when someone crashes into her bakery, he’s just the man to fix the damage.
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And Nina isn’t the only one who thinks Dillon’s the perfect man for the job: her two kids have taken a shine to him. Still, she can’t afford to get close to Dillon, even if he is tempting her to toss out her good girl shoes. Because it’s not that she doesn’t trust him. It’s that she doesn’t trust herself.
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Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of She’s Got It Bad by Sarah Mayberry
Contemporary Romance released by Harlequin Blaze 1 Apr 09

I’ve been hearing a lot of great things about Sarah Mayberry, so I decided to check her out. I was really impressed with how unconventional the heroine is, even for a contemporary romance.

When the blurb says, “Zoe is as tough and wild as they come” that’s absolutely the truth. Though she was a quiet good-girl twelve years ago, she grew up hard and fast. Now she’s a tattoo artist and the lead singer of a punk rock band. She’s taken her share of hard knocks, but she’s doing the best she can. Although she wishes she could go back into the past and change some things, she’s accepted her lot in life and is determined to do things her own way.

When Liam sees a naked painting of Zoe at an art gallery he knows he has to find her and help her out. The Zoe he knew twelve years ago never would have done something like that. But twelve years is a long time and Liam is surprised at the changes in Zoe. Not only is she tough and wild, but she’s completely comfortable with her sexuality. Not that he’s interested..well, ok, so he’s really interested, but he doesn’t want to take advantage of her. He only wants to help get her back on her feet. Walking away from her twelve years ago was one of the hardest things he’s ever done..so there’s pretty much no chance in hell he’ll be able to walk away again.

The attraction between these two was sizzling hot. Their sexual chemistry crackled. Not only that, they truly did have an emotional connection. I thought it was it was a wonderful that Liam wanted to help Zoe just to help her. He wasn’t looking for anything in return, and he wasn’t smug or condescending or trying to make himself look/feel better, he just wanted to help out the girl he once loved.

As I mentioned above, Zoe was a very unconventional heroine. She drank hard liquor, danced dirty and worked in a tattoo parlor. She also had a lot of emotional scarring. With Liam’s help she was able to work past many of her issues, but I like that she’d never completely be able to let everything from her past go. That was totally realistic. Though we often move on from things in our past, they shape who we are in the future. Mayberry really nailed that with Zoe.

I did have a few issues with both characters, however. Mostly because neither wanted to set their pride aside for the other. Not only that, but each swore they knew what was best for the other. Liam walked away from Zoe twelve years ago because he knew she’d be better off without him and even after all that time he still thinks it’s true. Because of things that happened to Zoe in her past, she’s convinced Liam would be better off without her. Plus, either are really willing to put themselves out there.

Despite that I really did enjoy the story. The characters were well developed and was emotionally engaging. I’ll definitely be looking for more by Sarah Mayberry in the future.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Twelve years ago Zoe Ford let Liam Masters break her heart. But now? There’s not a chance. Zoe is as tough and wild as they come. So when Liam shows up at her tattoo parlor, she’s more than ready to take him on again. That’s not going to be a hardship, since he’s hotter than he ever was.

This time she’s staying in charge. And she’s not going to consider their score settled until he’s hot, bothered and begging for more! Then she’ll move on as callously as he left her. Unless all that deliciously bad sex is just too good to give up…

Read an excerpt

Holly‘s review of Summer At the Lake by Linda Barrett
Contemporary Romance released by Harlequin SuperRomance 12 May 09

I’ve read countless romance novels that feature abuse victims – almost always the heroine – but I think this is the first where the victim is a young girl. This was definitely hard to read at times because of the content, but I thought it was a good story.

Kristin’s 11-year-old daughter Ashley was snatched outside a movie theatre and raped by some unknown man. 6 weeks later they borrow a friend’s lakeside cottage to take some time away to heal. Ashley hasn’t spoken since the attack and Kristin is afraid the bright, beautiful girl her daughter was becoming is gone forever.

I had kind of a love/hate relationship with Kristin. I understood – as much as a person can without experiencing something so horrific – her need to protect Ashley and the joy she felt at each small step she took on her way to recovery. I can’t imagine the pain and suffering she felt knowing her daughter had suffered the most horrific thing a woman can suffer. The guilt alone would be crushing. So her actions were understandable to a point. But something about her rubbed me the wrong way.

I think it was her constant negativity. She didn’t think her daughter would ever heal, or that the cops would ever find the man who did this. As I said above, I understood her feelings, but her constant negativity started dragging me down. So I figured it had to be affecting Rick and Ashley too. Her actions at the end especially bothered me. It wasn’t very logical for her to act the way she did and I didn’t like it.

I did like the other elements of the story. Watching Ashley heal with Rick and his dog’s help was heartbreaking. Her pain and fear came across very well. Rick was a great character and really pivotal in bringing about Ashley’s recovery. He was dealing with issues of his own. Trauma from a hostage situation gone bad that resulted in the death of a child. As much as I sympathized with him, it was obvious that he just needed to work through his grief and guilt and then he’d go back to work. His thoughts and fears that he’d never be able to return to hit were completely overshadowed by his actions and the way he was with Ashley and Kristin.

Parts of this novel were very emotionally compelling. I tried putting myself in Kristin’s place to see if I’d feel the way she did, and I just couldn’t do it. I don’t think anyone can that hasn’t experienced what she did. So despite my frustration with her during parts of this story, I was able to push past that and enjoy the rest of the story.

Grade: B

Summary:
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Kristin McCarthy hears him before she sees him. The melody of his saxophone glides across the summer night. The music’s healing effect on her daughter has Kristin seeking the person who can play so beautifully. Too bad Rick Cooper is a cop. With all she and her daughter have experienced, police don’t rank high on their get-to-know-you list.Still, Rick could be one of the good guys. Something about him challenges all Kristin’s assumptions. And their time together sparks her hopes for a future beyond this lakeside retreat. But before she can bring those dreams to life, Rick has to prove he’s the man she and her daughter can trust…forever.
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Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of Wyoming Wedding (Stetson’s and CEO’s, Book 3) by Sara Orwig
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Desire 9 Jun 09

This is the third book in Sara Orwig’s Stetson’s and CEO’s series and the only one I’ve read. I don’t think I missed anything by skipping the first two. Actually, the other couples were only mentioned briefly and made one or two brief appearances, so I think these can be read as stand-alones.

This isn’t exactly a new story. Waitress gets propositioned by billionaire CEO to become his wife so he can get into an investment club and win a bet he’s made with his cousin’s to see who can win the most money in a year. In order to get into the club he needs to be married and settled. He doesn’t want any messy emotional entanglements so he decides on his favorite waitress. She’s beautiful and he knows he can make her an offer she can’t refuse.

Here’s the thing – Matt was obsessed with money. Having it and making it were the most important things in his life. Or so we were told. The problem is that his attitude didn’t jive with the description of him. Sure, there were times when he mentioned business deals or whatever, but his inner dialogue didn’t support his ruthless needs to acquire more.

Therefore the main conflict – that Brianna wanted a deeper commitment and Matt was only obsessed with money – didn’t carry much weight. If, however, I set aside disbelief and just go with the flow, the story was ok.

At first both Brianna and Matt are driven by money. Brianna needs stability because she’s pregnant and Matt’s offer will give her financial security for the future for her child. Obviously Matt will gain more by joining the prestigious investment club he has his eye on. As the novel progresses Brianna comes to care for Matt and wants more from him than just a temporary arrangement of convenience. At first I wasn’t sure about Brianna, but she eventually grew on me. It was obvious why she came to care for Matt, and I thought she made the right decisions throughout the book.

In the beginning – as I mentioned above – Matt didn’t seem that driven by money. Toward the end a conflict arises between the regarding Matt’s family and I finally felt like we were seeing his need for money. Even so, I just didn’t buy him as a selfish man who’s only concern was money. I do like that Matt started opening up with Brianna.

Matt’s ex-girlfriend’s presence seemed kind of contrived. She didn’t really seem to serve a purpose other than as a placeholder. Her constant reappearances would have made sense if they’d lead up to a final conflict or something, but she just sort of faded out at the end drew near.

Mostly this was just a light story without a lot of substance. I enjoyed it as it was, but won’t be re-reading it.

Grade: C

Summary:
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Just two years of her time. That’s all handsome billionaire Matt Rome needed. His proposal seemed perfect on paper, and the promise of passion sizzled between them. But becoming a wife for hire? To a man with a cash register for a heart?Pregnant waitress Brianna Costin had no intention of falling for the workaholic financier—her golden ticket to help her struggling family. Yet beneath his heated kisses, the line between business and pleasure started to blur….
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Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of Runaway Bride Returns! by Christie Ridgway
Contemporary Romance released by Silhouette Special Edition 1 May 09

I’ve read several of Christie Ridgway’s full length novels and was curious about her categories as well. Although I was bothered by a few things, overall I enjoyed this just as much as the other novels I’ve read by her.

One of the best and worst things about this book is the emotional issues Owen has to deal with after one of his friends is killed during a house fire. He loses all confidence in himself as a firefighter and really has a hard time with survivors guilt. When Ridgway focused on his emotional scarring it was very compelling. Unfortunately, that aspect was glossed over quite a bit – while it was mentioned internally, it wasn’t really dealt with externally. The final resolution ended up being kind of glossed over, I think.

The other issue I think Ridgway glossed over was that of Izzy’s past. I understand she traveled a lot, but for a woman with nothing more than a few boxes and a post office box to her name, Izzy showed very little emotional scarring. I think there was potential here to really delve into some of these issues, but they weren’t really cleared up to my satisfaction.

I enjoyed the relationship aspects between Owen and Izzy, though I do wish they’d have spent more page time developing their relationship instead of of avoiding each other. Their connection was told to us more in flashbacks from their time together in Vegas than their current situation. It seems rather incongruous that they’d live together for weeks on end and yet still say, “none of your business” about key issues.

They did have strong chemistry, however, and despite my issues I was rooting for them. Owen’s gesture at the end really got me. If I look at this as a pleasurable read without much substance, I’d say it’s a winner. It lacks too much of an emotional punch to be considered a deeper story, though.

Grade: B

Summary:
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Owen Marston could never forget the passionate Vegas weekend that ended at the altar with Isabella Cavaletti. Or the way his new bride walked out on him the morning after. The footloose librarian obviously wasn’t cut out for married life. So what was she doing at the injured firefighter’s bedside?
Marrying a man she’d known for only three days in the Elvis Luvs U Wedding Chapel definitely rated up there with one of Izzy’s wilder and crazier moments. But now her “impulse” groom needed her back at his side. Except the longer she stayed with her too-arousing temporary husband, the more permanent she wanted the arrangement to be…
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Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of The Key by Lynsay Sands
Historical Romance released by Leisure Books 1 Feb 99

Lynsay Sands is a fairly new-to-me author. The first full length historical of hers I read was Devil of the Highlands, and that was just a few weeks ago. I found that novel to be lighthearted and engaging. I was looking for more of the same when I picked up this book, and I’m happy to report that it delivered. 

One of the things I liked best about this novel is that both characters were in need of growing and settling into the relationship. When one of them would do something wrong, the other would call him/her on it. It wasn’t that Duncan was always in the wrong and Iliana always right, or vice verse.

Iliana was a really spirited heroine. Generally I hate seeing that as a description of a heroine because its usually synonymous with TSTL. In this case she wasn’t TSTL but she truly was spirited. Even though the Englishwoman was forced into a marriage with a Highlander, she didn’t let it get her down. Not even when, upon arrival to his keep, she finds him mostly drunk, dirty and smelling like a pile of horse dung. The keep itself was in even worse repair, and all his people were filthy and smelly.

Duncan was stubborn and unbending for the most part. In the 20 years since his mother died his father let things fall apart, but that’s the only thing Duncan knows. He figures if it’s worked for twenty years, why change now? He doesn’t understand why Iliana wants his people to have clean clothes and good tasting food. Nor does he understand why she refuses to sleep with him until he bathes. He’s always bathed twice a year and none of the other women he’s been with have complained. I loved seeing Iliana disabuse him of his notions. The way they reacted to each other and their situations could have become annoying, but instead they’re written in a believable way.

As I said, it wasn’t that one of them was always in the wrong and the other always in the right, they both had growing and changing to do. My only issue with this story was the evil step-father plot. Although it wasn’t done badly, I feel like this plot has been done too many times. I am giving some leeway, however, because the book was originally released in 1999. Otherwise this was a great read. Light and fun, with just the right touch of tenderness.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Iliana Wildwood would do anything to escape from the depraved baron who sought her lands – including marrying a barbarian. Fleeing the highlands, Iliana was wedded to Duncan, laird to Dunbar Castle. Certainly, there was something about the virile warrior that made her weak in the knees – but something stank in the state of Scotland, and Iliana would not trust anyone until she’d discovered the source. Determined therefore to resist her handsome husband, Iliana found a way to keep her secrets safe. Employing a belt of chastity, the spirited beauty managed to thwart the thane’s advances. But then her husband changed his tactics and began a sensual assault that sent her intentions up in smoke. And as the air cleared, Iliana found it had been her heart she had locked away, and that this stubborn Scot had finally found…

Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of Devil of the Highlands by Lynsay Sands
Historical Romance released by Avon 27 Jan 09

Years ago I read a novella featuring Lynsay Sands and Hannah Howell. Though it was enjoyable, it featured vampires – something I’m practically allergic to. I was under the impression that Lynsay Sands only wrote vampires, so I didn’t bother to look for anything else by her. Recently Sybil suggested this book and I decided, ‘oh, what the hey.’ Even though I’m not big on vamps I enjoyed the novella I read by her. I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn’t a vamp book at all, but a fun, light historical. 

Evelinde was freaked out when she realized her evil stepmother was marrying her off to the Devil of Donnachaidh, but it isn’t long after meeting him (or realizing who he really was, since she didn’t realize during their first meeting) that she realizes the rumors about him are wrong. He isn’t an awful beast of a man. He’s actually very considerate. He also awakens serious passion in her. The problem is that he doesn’t say much. Or, well, anything really. He’s the strong silent type. He believes a man should be judged on his actions, not on his words. Which is how he got his reputation. He just let people assume the worst about him. So Evelinde is basically dropped in a new place with nothing and no one and a husband who doesn’t speak to her.

Evelinde was a great heroine. She’s spunky and feisty and not afraid to stand up for herself, but she wasn’t stupid or rude. She was kind and generous and really rather sweet, though she definitely had a temper. The constant battles she has with Cullen to get him to talk to her were hilarious. I loved that she was open and honest with him from the beginning. Instead of lying to him or letting him come to his own conclusions she always told him exactly how she was feeling and what she was doing.

One of the things that really stands out for me about this book is that Cullen really cared for Evelinde right from the beginning. He didn’t fall in love with her until later, and he was completely baffled by her throughout, but he didn’t shy away from her or avoid her or whine and complain because he didn’t want to be in love. He just went on about his day. That was definitely refreshing.

The villain was easy to figure out, but I enjoyed watching the hero and heroine puzzle it out. I didn’t find it boring or tedious, though I do think the romance is the main focus.

Overall this was a cute historical romance reminiscent of Julie Garwood’s earlier works, without the stilted writing. I’d definitely recommend it.

Grade: B+

Summary:

They call him the Devil . . . He is the most notorious laird of Scotland: fierce, cold, deadly . . . and maybe even worse. Yet Evelinde has just agreed to wed him. Anything, she thinks, is better than her cruel stepmother. Though Evelinde should be wary of the rumors, she can’t help but be drawn to this warrior . . . for the Devil of the Highlands inspires a heat within her that is unlike anything she has ever known.

They may call him whatever they wish, but Cullen, Laird of Donnachaidh, cares only for the future of his clan. He must find a wife, a woman to bear him sons and heed his commands. He has no need for beauty or grace, but one taste of his lovely bride’s sweet lips and the sultry feel of her skin arouse an untamed passion. Perhaps there’s more to marriage than he thought . . .
Read an excerpt.

How much work are you willing to do for free books? Right now we’re doing the Bingeaduckia Event. One of the contests we have going on is Rowena’s Scavenger Hunt. Each day of the 7 days of the event, Rowena gives you a list of things to do. At the end of the week we’ll choose one winner who particpated each day and they’ll get a prize pack chock full of books.

What do you think? Is finding the answer to 3 or 4 questions each day worth the chance to win 7 books? Sometimes it’s really hard to find a good balance between the prize and what you have to do to win it. I think in this case the work is worth the prize, don’t you?. If I could enter I would (heh).

Here’s the list of prizes you can win:

Here’s what we have to award the winner of the Scavenger Hunt:

* Seduction at Christmas
* Alluring Tales 2: Hot Holiday Nights
* Bedding Down
* Suite 606
* Double the Pleasure
* Unlaced
* The Magical Christmas Cat

Seems to me for that prize pack you’d be willing to do a lot more than just answer a few questions each day, right?

Tell me, what are you willing to do for free books? Leave a comment and then go play in the scavenger hunt!

The tasks so far:

Bingeaduckia Scavenger Hunt: Day 1
Bingeaduckia Scavenger Hunt: Day 2
Bingeaduckia Scavenger Hunt: Day 3
Bingeaduckia Scavenger Hunt: Day 4
Bingeaduckia Scavenger Hunt: Day 5

Holly‘s review of On the Move (A Harlequin NASCAR Book) by Pamela Britton
Contemporary Romance released by HQN 1 Sept 2008

I started reading the Harlequin NASCAR books a couple of years ago. I know Sybil will tell you it’s because I’m a redneck, but the truth is, I’m not a fan of NASCAR in real life. I’ve been to the sprint car races a couple times (mostly in high school) but that’s the extent of it. I generally find the action to be a good backdrop in these novels, though. Not enough that I’m now going to start following NASCAR, but still…

I really loved Vicki in the beginning of this book. She didn’t let Brandon get away with acting like a jerk or flirting with her just to get his way. She stood up to him and told him exactly how things were – not only with her agency, but also with her personally. I was really excited to see a heroine who didn’t act like she was better than any man, but who was strong enough to stand up for herself. She didn’t delude herself into thinking she was a Perfect Ten model, but she also didn’t sell herself short.

Brandon? Well, Brandon I never really liked. In the beginning he acted like a spoiled child. He was mean and hurtful just to be mean and hurtful, but worse, he was immature and acted out like some angst-filled teenager. I think the author wanted us to be sympathetic to him because of issues he had with his father, and also because he was illiterate. Sadly, it didn’t work. Rather than coming off as a character I wanted to empathize with, I kept thinking, “Seriously? You’re an adult?”

I kept reading because Vicki was a great heroine and I really enjoyed watching her stand up for herself and keep Brandon in line and because Brandon showed brief flashes of kindness and decency. But then, about 3/4 of the way through, Vicki turned stupid, too. She became jealous and shrewish and started demanding ridiculous things from Brandon. For the first time in the entire book, I was totally sympathetic to Brandon. It was sad, seeing that strong woman reduced to teenage antics.

Honestly, I can’t find much to recommend this book. I kept waiting for the turning point, where everything would come together and both characters would realize they were acting like morons, but sadly it never came. Brandon did show some emotional growth when it came to relationships with people other than Vicki (his road crew, the owner of his car, etc), but any progress he made was overshadowed by the petulant way he acted around Vicki. Vicki was great in the beginning, but she totally lost me when she saw Brandon shooting a commercial with some hot country singer and demanded he marry her. When she stormed off in a huff and then sat crying by the phone while waiting for him to call, it was just the icing on the cake.

Grade: D

Summary:

Vicki Bradford might work for the most ruthless sports agent in the business, but she’s no quitter, even when she hits the lowest of career lows—acting as a glorified babysitter to NASCAR’s disruptive newcomer, Brandon Burke. But his devilish grin and the gleam in his eye tell her he won’t be so easy to tame.…Brandon isn’t about to let his wild ways on and off the track be tempered by a buttoned-up stunner hired to make him behave. And he’s not above a little pulse-pounding game of seduction to send her running. But one kiss ignites something powerful between them. And now it’s a matter of how to avoid the crash and burn of two opposites steering recklessly toward love.

Read an excerpt.

Holly‘s review of Flashback by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romantic Suspense released by Harlequin Blaze 1 Aug 08

First things first: That cover? Totally hot. Yummy fireman. Mmmm. Ok, moving on. I read this book before I read the first one in the series, Flashpoint. I have to tell you…I was very disappointed in this the first time around. My major issues stemmed from the plot and the way things progressed after the way the first book in the series left off. I decided to read the first before deciding for sure on this one and I’m glad I held off. The actions of the characters and overall story arc worked much better having read the first and understanding where all the motives of the characters. I highly recommend you read these in order.

Aidan and Kenzie spent a summer getting hot and heavy with each other until Aidan broke it off. He was scared of falling in love, but too bad for Kenzie she already had. Now she’s back in town because her brother was murdered in a fire. She and Aidan meet up again and realize they’re both still attracted to each other. They pick up where they left off, but Kenzie is determined to find the person who set up her brother before he died, and to keep her heart protected.

I really liked the banter between Aidan and Kenzie. I actually chuckled out loud a couple times while reading it. I also liked them together. They had great chemistry and the sexual tension fairly leapt off the pages. I really liked that Aidan respected Kenzie and treated her as grown woman. That was refreshing.

I really appreciated Kenzie’s dedication to proving her brother wasn’t the arsonist everyone thought him to be. I was completely on her side in the beginning, wondering right along with her why no one doubted her brother had actually been guilty of arson before his death. As a sister I imagine I’d act the same way she did.

The problem is, I think she took her tough girl, I-can-do-everything-all-by-myself attitude a little bit too far. I get that Aidan had hurt her in the past. I even get that he deserved payback for that. What I don’t get is why she had to purposely put herself in danger to prove it. Or why Aidan let her.

That was my other problem: Aidan let her. She’s being followed by some creepy dude, getting random phone calls on her cell from some anonymous person, and after nothing more than a token protest about her not calling the cops, Aidan decided to let it go. While I appreciated him letting her do her thing in the beginning, it started bother me the longer it went on.

The suspense aspect wasn’t done badly, I suppose, though I did figure it out early in the book (well, part of it, anyway). I guess I was just disappointed in Aidan’s refusal to push the issue and Kenzie’s refusal to back off, even a little bit. I suppose if I’m being fair, it was her brother, her only relative, with whom she was extremely close. So it makes sense she’d want to clear his name. I guess the way she went about it just didn’t sit right with me.

I really loved the two of them together, though. Their chemistry was off the charts and I love how – when they were fighting with each other – they both paid attention to the other and did their best to support, comfort and care for each other. When Aidan was feeling down about work or stressed out, Kenzie offered him unconditional support. When Kenzie was upset over having lost her brother, or trying to puzzle out the mystery surrounding his death, Aidan didn’t hesitate to work with her and support her. I loved that.

Overall I had some issues with the characters by themselves, but they really worked for me as a couple. The plot was interesting and moved along well, but I wasn’t surprised by the twist (not surprising since I rarely am).

Grade: B+

Summary:

Firefighter Aidan Donnelly has always battled the flames with trademark icy calm. That is, until a blazing old flame returns—in the shape of sizzling soap star Mackenzie Stafford! Aidan wants to pour water over the unquenchable heat between them. But that just creates more steam….Kenzie is not the delicate, fragile female she looks like. She has one clear objective, and nothing will stand in the way of her goal—well, nothing but the red-hot touch of a certain dangerously sexy fireman, that is!

Read an excerpt here

Read Holly’s review of Flashpoint here.

Holly‘s review of Flashpoint (American Heroes: The Firefighters, Book1) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary erotic romance published by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jul 08

I have to be honest and admit the only reason I wanted to read this book is because of the cover. It’s hot. Seriously hot. After I read the back blurb I was a little bit leery, because it’s about a firefighter and an EMT. Although limited, my past experience with firefighters and EMTs hasn’t been favorable. I think too often authors aren’t able to find a good balance between the technical aspects of firefighting and the personal relationships they have. In this case, however, my past experience meant nothing. Jill Shalvis did a credible job of writing wonderfully flawed characters without bogging the story down with the technical aspects.

Both Brook O’Brian and Zach Thomas are no-strings type of people. Brook grew up in a million different place as she was drug around by her bohemian mother. She wasn’t given much opportunity to create lasting relationships. Zach’s parents were killed when he was a child and as a result he doesn’t like to let people get close. Although both characters had past baggage, I wasn’t turned off by either of them. Their issues were real and believable and worked well within the context of the story.

Zach was very much the laid back surfer boy, content to stroll through life. I think he was a good contrast to Brook, who was more uptight. The sexual tension between the two fairly sizzled off the pages and when they finally got around to doing the deed it was smokin’ hot. But beyond that, the emotional connection they had was very much in evidence. I really felt there was a good amount of intimacy between them, besides just the sexual.

There’s an underlying plot about some fires being investigated as arson, and I thought that was well done also. The direction in which the story arc moved was interesting without overwhelming the love story and really worked for me. It turned out to be much more emotional than I expected.

Overall the story was well paced with excellent sexual tension, wonderfully drawn characters and an interesting plot.

Grade: A

Click on the Flashpoint tag below to see more reviews and information about this book.

Summary:

Zach Thomas risks his life battling flames every day. But since sexy EMT Brooke O’Brian joined the crew, he can’t resist playing with fire. Brooke is feisty, a little uptight…and sexy as hell. And as Zach soon discovers, she’s definitely hot stuff between the sheets. Still, every firefighter knows that the hotter the blaze, the faster the action’s over….After the whirlwind ride Zach’s been taking her on, Brooke is ready to do anything for this man-in and out of bed! But she knows footloose and fancy-free Zach doesn’t do commitment. So she plans to build up a five-alarm fire between them. The kind he won’t ever want to put out…

Read an excerpt here

Holly‘s review of Master: An Erotic Novel of the Count of Monte Cristo by Colette Gale
Erotic Romance published by NAL Trade 6 May 08

I’m a huge fan of The Count of Monte Cristo. I believe I first read the novel by Alexandre Dumas when I was a freshman in high school and it really resonated with me. Since then, I’ve re-read it at least once a year. So when I heard (almost a year ago) that Colette Gail was going to write an erotic accounting of the novel, well, I just had to read it, didn’t I?

I’m sure all of you are familiar with the tale by now: Edmond Dantes was falsely imprisoned on charges of treason on suspicion of plotting to help Napoleon escape from exile. He spent 14 hellish years in a French prison, dreaming of none other than his one true love Mercedes. He escapes prison to find she’s married to her cousin – one of the men responsible for his imprisonment. He becomes convinced he’s an avenging angel and sets out to exact revenge on all of those who betrayed him.

This version isn’t much different in plot from the original, but it’s written a lot dirtier. Fernand, Mercedes’ husband, is gay and needs certain perversions in order to get off. He becomes violent when he’s unable to perform, and Mercedes has spent years being abused by him – both physically and sexually. I think there’s a little something for everyone in this novel: bondage, voyeurism, menage.

Mercedes and Edmond are still as attracted to each other as they were 20 years before and the sexual chemistry between them was well done and believable. I didn’t feel like the author threw in sex scenes just for the sake of having them, either. All the scenes were believable and served to move the plot forward.

Overall a well written, emotionally charged erotic novel that very closely resembled the original in plot and tone. Highly recommend.

Grade: A

From the author of Unmasqued comes a bold and erotic retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo.

Dantes spent years imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Now he’s returned to Paris in the guise of the Count of Monte Cristo, seeking vengeance on those who sent him to jail. But his plan also includes a different kind of revenge—on the woman he has never forgotten, the lover he has made it his mission to possess. So unfolds an erotic battle of wills in the most electrifying game of love ever played between man and woman, master and slave.

Read an excerpt.

Holly’s review of It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Contemporary romance reissued by Avon 24 Jun 08

This is one of those novels that’s really hard to grade. I absolutely loved it while I was reading it, but once I finished I realized there were a lot of flaws with it. The hero is an ass, the heroine plays dumb and uses her looks to get ahead in the world and the secondary characters are all football players. Oh, wait, that’s actually a point in it’s favor. Mmm, football players. But I digress. The point is, though it’s flawed, it’s still a well written book that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go.

Phoebe is definitely an interesting character. Though we see right from the beginning that she has more depth than she pretends to, it’s still painful at times to watch her stumble along, playing the blonde bimbo. One of the best parts of this novel is when Dan realizes she’s just playing a game, and isn’t really as shallow as she seems. Actually, Phoebe is the best part of this novel, period. It’s wonderful seeing her become strong, standing up for herself, realizing she’s worth more than men give her credit for.

If Phoebe is the best part of the novel, Dan is definitely the worst. He’s the quintessential man, courting a virginal pre-school teacher who he thinks will make good wife material while screwing the blonde bimbo. Plus, he’s convinced woman are either made for making babies and being wives, or having sex with. He doesn’t think women can own/run football teams or anything else. And yet, I didn’t hate him while I was reading. He actually made me all melty inside. It’s not until after I finish the book (each and every time I re-read it) that my inner feminist pokes her head up and says, “WTF? Oh hell no.”

So, let’s recap: I love this book. Love the sissy little dog, the secondary characters, the heroine, the hero, the setting, the plot. Until I finish reading it. Then my inner feminist screams at me and I realize, DUH, this book encompasses everything she hates. But, I love it.

Where does that leave us? With a solid read that obviously engages the emotions, pushes all my buttons and still leaves a good impression.

Grade: B++

The Summary:

The Windy City isn’t quite ready for Phoebe Somerville—the outrageous, curvaceous New York knockout who has just inherited the Chicago Stars football team. And Phoebe is definitely not prepared for the Stars’ head coach Dan Calebow, a sexist jock taskmaster with a one-track mind. Calebow is everything Phoebe abhors. And the sexy new boss is everything Dan despises—a meddling bimbo who doesn’t know a pigskin from a pitcher’s mound.

Read an excerpt here

Book one in the Chicago Stars Series

I’m just throwing this out there, feel free to toss it back…

I’m thinking if you’re an author or aspiring author it’s extremely important to have a professional looking website/blog, especially if you’re advertising that you’re an author/aspiring author. And by “professional looking” I mean free of spelling and grammatical errors.

We’re human, so chances are there are going to be one or two here or there, but when your bio/about me blurb is riddled with spelling errors, improper use of punctuation or tons of grammatical errors..well, that makes me, as a reader, not take you seriously as an author. Which means if you DO get published or I see your already published novel on the shelf, I won’t buy your book. Not only that, but I would imagine if you want to be taken seriously by your peers and by the important people in the industry that isn’t exactly the way to go about it.

Basically, not paying attention to the little things could potentially cost you big. Just a friendly piece of advice from a local romance reviewer…

Holly‘s review of Forbidden: The Billionaire’s Virgin Princess by Lucy Monroe
Contemporary romance published by Harlequin Presents 1 July 2008

It’s no secret that I love Harlequin Presents, and Lucy Monroe is definitely my favorite Presents author. Her stories are usually well rounded and emotionally fulfilling. Although this is definitely a good story, I don’t feel it was quite up to par with what I’ve come to expect from her in the past.

I think the reason this one fell somewhat short had something to do with the way the couple separated and then were reunited. Sebastian, owner of a very prestigious personal security firm, is hired by Lina’s father to keep an eye on her as added security detail because her life has been threatened by one of his enemies. She’s going to university in America and Sebastian poses as a student there himself in order to keep her safe without her knowledge. That’s the whole problem right there. Without her knowledge. He doesn’t tell who he is or why he’s there. Not only that, but he expects complete trust from her and wants her to open up and tell him she’s a princess. The double standard of that bothered me.

They’re reunited three years later when Lina’s father hires Sebastian to track her down. Lina decided she wanted to live her own life, not the one her father is mandating for her, so shortly after that fateful night with Sebastian, she flees. Now he’s been hired to track her down. But Lina isn’t the headstrong girl he remembers. She’s calmer, more sure of herself and willing to be brought back to her father…for a price. She’s never been able to get Sebastian out of her head, and she wants him to have sex with her so they can burn out the passion between them and she can finally get over him.

I’m totally on the fence about my final feelings. The way things ended between the couple, and then the way they were reunited really left a bad taste in my mouth. But in the end I enjoyed both characters and the overall story arc. Lina was a good heroine. It’s obvious in the beginning that she’s young and headstrong and very naive about men, but she grows into a lovely woman who’s comfortable with herself. I love that she was willing to stand up to her father and didn’t just bend to his will. I also like that she stood up to Sebastian and didn’t let him off the hook for his actions in the past.

Sebastian was different. He’s definitely colder than some of Lucy Monroe’s other heroes, and I’m not sure I could have forgiven him had he not apologized for the way Lina found out who he really was. I understood his dilemma (wanting Lina but not wanting to risk war to have her) but I think I would have liked to see him be a bit more proactive about keeping her for himself.

Still, it turned out to be a good story, even if I didn’t appreciate the way it began.

Grade: B

The Summary:

Sebastian Hawk is a master in business and in the bedroom. There is no place for emotion in his world.

Lina is a headstrong and reckless princess in need of protection and Sebastian is called in to provide round-the-clock security. Her provocative innocence is too enticing, and Sebastian loses his legendary self—control and beds her…only to discover she’s still a virgin….

You can read an excerpt here.

Holly‘s review of Taming the Highlander by Terri Brisbin
Historical romance published by Harlequin Historical 1 Jul 06

Although I enjoy historical romance novels, lately I’ve been disappointed in the majority of the ones I’ve read. I realized the other day the reason for my disappointment stems from the fact that I have a hard time suspending disbelief over some of the situations the characters find themselves in. Basically, I don’t think the novels I’ve read recently have been in keeping with how I think historical times really were. While that doesn’t always bother me, I think I’ve just been craving something a little more realistic. Terri Brisbin did an excellent job, in my opinion, of staying true to the times. It was very refreshing and just what I was looking for.

She didn’t gloss over some of the more unsavory aspects of historical times, but instead highlighted them. Jocelyn is all set to marry one of her father’s fostered men when she’s told her brother has been captured and the price of his release is her agreeing to marry his captor, Connor MacLerie, called The Beast because of the rumors circulating that he murdered his first wife because she couldn’t bare him children.

Though she doesn’t want to – especially considering the rumors surrounding him – she knows she has no choice. I think I liked this aspect best. She didn’t want to, but she knew she didn’t have a choice. There was no fighting it, or running away, or doing something stupid. She just did what she had to do. She didn’t like it, but she did it regardless. It was refreshing to have a heroine who knew her own mind and wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself when needed, but who also knew she had to make the best of a bad situation. I think she was much stronger than many other heroines for just that reason.

Connor’s first wife fell down the stairs. For three years afterwards he spent considerable time and effort cultivating the rumor that he pushed her. He’s been told by the king that he needs to remarry, so he chooses Jocelyn because she has enough spirit to stand up to him and because unlike his first wife, she’s not beautiful. Connor struggles to stay detached from her, because he knows had he not loved his first wife, she wouldn’t have died. I enjoyed his character very much. He was the typical highland warrior, more than prepared to go to war, but not nearly prepared enough to deal with a woman and her sensitive feelings. Though this could have become tedious, Brisbin did a credible job of balancing his need to be a man with his need to have peace in his household. He screws up several times, giving Jocelyn what he assumes she wants, but he always makes it right in the end. I even understood his need to keep her at arms length.

The plot was tight and well drawn, though it didn’t take much to figure out who the villain of the piece was. I’m not sure if the author intended for it to come as a surprise or not, but it wasn’t long after the character was introduced that I figured the whole thing out. Even so, the focus of the story was on the main protagonists, so the mystery/suspense plot wasn’t in the forefront and therefore wasn’t as important as it could have been.

Overall an extremely well drawn novel with wonderful character development.

Grade: A-

Lady Jocelyn MacCallum had always believed she would marry for love. But the price of her brother’s freedom was to become fearsome Connor MacLerie’s new bride – a bargain that could cost Jocelyn her life.

From the moment she looked into Connor’s sternly handsome face, Jocelyn began to hope that the rumors surrounding his first wife’s death were false. His reputation was as wild and untamed as the Scottish moors. Would she find a way to reach the man beneath that forbidding exterior?

Holly‘s review of In Bed With Her Italian Boss by Kate Hardy
Contemporary Romance released by Harlequin Presents 8 Apr 08

I generally enjoy the Presents line, though I don’t remember reading Kate Hardy before. Unfortunately, this book features one of my least favorite plot devices – the BIG MISUNDERSTANDING – which resulted in the hero and heroine acting like children for most of the novel. I’ll be looking for more titles by her in the future, but I’m going to make sure they’re written around a different plot device.

I liked Gio as a hero. He was kind and considerate to Fran and was close with his family. He had hangups because he feels responsible for his father suffering a heart attack while covering for him at work in college, so he’s turned into a workaholic. He refuses to get involved in a serious relationship for fear he’ll let the person down again. Even though he loves music and is an excellent player, he won’t pursue it as anything more than a hobby, because he feels the need to punish himself for something he had no control over. After awhile, this became very tiresome and I was ready for him to move on.

I really liked Fran. She was adopted as a child and has always felt like the odd man out with her family. She’s witty and efficient and had a great dry sense of humor I really enjoyed. When Gio asks her to pretend to be his girlfriend, she reluctantly agrees, but is surprised at how well she fits in and gets along with his family, and immediately starts feeling guilty for deceiving them. When her flat floods and she needs a place to stay, Gio offers her his spare room and things quickly heat up. But she struggles with keeping it casual since Gio has made it clear he wants a no strings attached affair and her pride and personal insecurities won’t let her ask him if he wants something more. Her constant waffling back and forth about “this means nothing/this means everything” started to bother me after awhile, but I understood her reasons for feeling the way she did.

Up to this point, I was digging the story. Then came the big misunderstanding. With one conversation, both Fran and Gio could have saved themselves a ton of heartache, but instead they clung to their pride and conviction that each were the wronged party, when really it was just their own stubborness that caused problems. Although I felt it ended well, my frustration throughout the last 1/4 of the book came close to ruining it for me.

Grade: C+

Summary:
Having just been fired, Francesca has three immediate requirements: a coffee, an extremely calorific pastry and a new job. Stopping off at her favorite café, Giovanni’s, she manages to pick up all three!

Working for darkly handsome Giovanni Mazetti is fantastic—except Fran discovers the job comes with a tantalizing caveat: pretending to be his adoring girlfriend! Soon their kisses start happening in private as well as in public, and although Fran knows it’s all a game to Giovanni, she can’t help wishing his feelings were for real….

Read an excerpt here.