Dinca’s review of Too Hot To Print by Stephanie Bond
Contemporary Romance published by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jan 10

Too Hot to Print is a sexy and fun quick read. No thinking outside the box here. The hero and heroine meet and decide to indulge in a fantasy for an evening. Why not, Gabrielle always says a woman needs to take possession of her sensual side…

Gabrielle Pope is a dowdy librarian who belongs to the Red Tote book club. The club reads the old sensual classics, and now her body is running on overdrive. After a chance encounter with the sexy out-of-towner Henry Wells, she is more than ready to indulge in a one-night stand. She takes the plunge and shows up at the hotel meeting.

Henry Wells finds himself driven to discover what is under that buttoned-up brown sweater. He can’t imagine anything less than perfection. Too bad he is only here for a few more days and nights. Once Henry gets the chance to massage his way to ecstasy, he finds this woman just might be enough to last a lifetime.

Once I downloaded this e-novella, I enjoyed the fast, fun pace. It is well written and no typos were found to disrupt the enjoyment of the story, as has happened in other ebooks. I don’t believe I’ve ever given an author top honors here at TGTBTU, but this book definitely deserves it.

Grade: A+

Summary:

How much sex is too much sex? That’s what librarian Gabrielle Pope is wondering. Thanks to a chance encounter with sexy-as-sin Henry Wells, she’s indulging in sensual acts she’s never even dreamed of. And she’s loving every minute of it…

Unfortunately, Henry’s not a local–he’s only in town on a seven day business trip. So Gabrielle has to decide–does she go back to searching for Mr. Right, or give in and totally indulge with Mr. Right Now. Because if this is going to be the best sex of her life, she’s can’t waste a single minute of it….

Read an excerpt.

Dinca’s review of The Body That Launched a Thousand Ships by Tori Carrington
Contemporary Romance published by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jan 10

Have you ever seen something you wanted and just had to set out and get it? That is what this romance is about. This is part of Blazing Bedtime Stories Vol III, and it didn’t put me to sleep at all. I read to the end and enjoyed every minute of it.

Elena Anastasios and her family are devastated by the death of her father and accept the marriage proposal of her father’s friend, Greek shipping magnate Manolis Philippidis. This marriage will save her family and is encouraged by her mother. She is resigned to a relationship of loving but not being in love, until she meets Ari Metaxas…

Ari Metaxas and his brother, Troy, are invited guests to the wedding of Manolis Philippidis, a man they hope to do business with and save their failing family lumber mill that is the main support of the small town of Earnest, Washington. While staying on a yacht in the bay, he spies a beauty in the complex on shore. He discovers her again in the marketplace and gets acquainted. Make that very acquainted in the secluded doorway of a side alley.

Elena has the shock of her life at her engagement party when she is introduced in the receiving line to her wanton make-out stranger. They pretend not to have met, to no avail. At the end of the evening Ari kidnaps her by throwing her overboard and then rescuing her, taking her to his yacht. Following the adage that actions speak louder than words, he proceeds to convince her not to go through with the wedding.

When Troy discovers the bride to be the next morning, he is livid and helps get her off the yacht. Elena’s still determined to go through with the wedding for her family’s sake. She feels she has had the one-time fling of her life and is ready to devote her life to her marriage and family obligations. When she reveals all to Manolis Philippidis on the church steps, he slaps her but still wants to continue with the wedding.

Elena realizes now she cannot go through with the union and walks away from everyone. Back in her home town of Seattle, Washington she tries to salvage her family’s restaurant. Finding herself missing Ari and discovering she is in love with him, she is more than elated when he shows up at the restaurant with his irresistible charm. Instead of rushing into another engagement and marriage, they decide to take their time on the journey to happily ever after.

Tori Carrington has created a quick and enjoyable read. Although it is part of the Bedtime Stories series, I discovered the next installment, Ari’s sister, Bryna Metaxas, in a series called Private Scandals. I wonder where the brother Troy will end up?

Grade: A

Summary:

Elena Anastasios is finally going to get her fairy-tale wedding. Little does she know that ultra-hot Ari Metaxas is about to steal her away from her groom-to-be. Or that he intends to give her multiple mind-blowing reasons to believe that he’s the better man!

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade: DNF

Summary:

Don’t think.Don’t question.

Just do.

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

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

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

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

We play by my rules now.

Read an excerpt.

Sandy M’s DDS Review of The McKettricks of Texas by Linda Lael Miller
Historical Western Romance published by HQN Jan, May, Jun 10

Darn that Sybil. You can’t argue with her. And she forces you to look at things differently than usual. I’m a very within-the-box type of reader. I go with what an author gives me, very rarely thinking outside that box. Sometimes I have to look outside, however, when something is too silly, too dark, too lame, too whatever even for me. So when we discussed this trilogy, she pointed out a couple of things that never occurred to me during my reading. While I still maintain my enjoyment of the books versus her dislike of them, I do see her point here and there. But not enough for me not to like this new generation of McKettricks.

Tate
26 Jan 10

Tate and Libby were high school sweethearts, on their way to a happily ever after until one liquored-up night Tate strays, finds out he’s going to be a father, tries to do the right thing and breaks Libby’s heart in the process. Of course, the marriage doesn’t last and Tate has joint custody of his twin girls, which reduces him to pieces each time he sends his children back to their mother.

He and Libby have seen each other over the years, there’s no totally avoiding seeing or interacting with the other in such a small town, but little by little they begin to talk and then when Tate gives her an opening, she hesitantly takes it, and then feelings and wishes begin to happen again for them both. Libby is afraid he’ll go back to his ex-wife if only for the kids. Tate fears she hasn’t forgiven him for leaving as he did six years before.

I like both of these characters. They have their vulnerabilities, but when push comes to shove, they do what they need to. Syb didn’t like the fact there’s not enough groveling and/or apologizing on Tate’s part for the way he treated Libby. I felt he showed that in deed rather than the spoken word. And, hell, he’s a McKettrick. They do their own thing, including their own brand of apologizing and whatnot. I know that won’t satisfy a reader like Sybil, but for me it works. It never entered my mind that Tate didn’t explain to Libby why he did what he did until my talk with Syb. Maybe it should have. I don’t know. I do know it still doesn’t lessen my enjoyment of the story.

There’s mystery surrounding cattle rustling that spreads out over the three books, a come-home again mother whose efforts are too little too late, and death that affects them all. I enjoyed the interaction between the brothers, the teasing, competitiveness, and fighting but having each other’s back when need be. The same goes for the sisters, they’re just as fearsome when it comes each other. The children are also a hoot, though a lot can be said for the fact that children don’t speak the way these do. But they were fun, so it didn’t really bother me.

A good start to the trilogy for me. It made me want to pick up the next one.

Grade: B

Summary:

For divorced dad Tate McKettrick, there are barely enough hours each day to run the Silver Spur ranch, do the suit-and-tie thing for his business and run herd on his beloved six-year-old daughters. But time stands still at the sight of Libby Remington. When they were high school sweethearts, the wealthy McKettrick made a mistake that cost him the love of his life. But now they’re both back in Blue River, Texas. And cattle rustlers, a manipulative ex-wife and a killer stallion can’t keep Tate from trying to win Libby again.

Libby has her hands full caring for her mother and running the Perk Up Coffee Shop. Caffeine she needs. Tate McKettrick—with his blazing blue eyes and black hair. No way! Oh, heck—yes! But can Tate and Libby really hope for a second chance?

Read an excerpt.

Garrett
25 May 10

I think Garrett is my favorite of the three books. He’s the brother who’s left Blue River with aspirations of one day becoming President of the United States. He’s the top gun for a senator, who’s married to Garrett’s mother’s best friend, and Garrett has defended the man at every turn. However, the senator’s latest debacle is too much even for Garrett and his eyes are finally wide open.

So he heads home to regroup. There he runs into Julie Remington. He’s known her for years but now takes another look at her and likes what he sees. Her son even burrows into Garrett’s heart, a boy who is starved for a man’s attention. I love those scenes between man and boy throughout the book, especially when the biological father resurfaces.

Julie is a hometown teacher, goes to bat for her students, is afraid her ex-husband will try to take her son, and is beginning to have feelings for a man she’s been friends with for years. She and Garrett are thrown together while she’s living in the McKettrick home due to the huge termite balloon currently covering her own home, as well as the fact her sister is marrying his brother.

Trying to fend off the repercussions of a political scandal is not that easy and Garrett finds himself grudgingly pulled back in the fray before too long. That’s when he realizes how much home means to him. His brothers, the ranch, and especially Julie are where his home is. Julie has to learn to let go of some things she just can’t completely control and let a certain cowboy into her heart for good.

The rustling mystery continues in this book, escalating more and more so that the sisters are afraid for their men, who go galloping into the danger head on to protect what’s theirs. Again, the camaraderie among the brothers, as well as the sisters, is a fun part of the story. But it’s Garrett learning to be a father that won me over for this edition to the trilogy to be my fave.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Fast track up the political ladder, fast cars, fast women—that’s Garrett McKettrick. Make that was. A scandal has brought him home to Blue River, a place where a man can slow down, take stock and plan his next move. Which doesn’t include staying at the family ranch with his brothers. A city boy for a long time now, Garrett doesn’t think he has the land in his blood anymore. But Blue River has other attractions, like his former high school nemesis, Julie Remington.

Now a striking woman and much-respected teacher, Julie comes complete with a precocious four-year-old cowboy, a three-legged beagle and deep ties to the community. Good thing they have nothing in common—except their undeniable attraction and a future brighter than the Texas sun.
Read an excerpt.

Austin
29 Jun 10

Austin almost trumped Garrett in the favorite category. He’s the rodeo bull rider who was quite seriously injured in Tate, and he’s determined to again ride the bull that bested him. It turns out it wasn’t the best idea he’s had when he ends up with a hernia that knocks him off his feet for a bit. With his devil-may-care attitude and endless restlessness, he finds being nursed by the youngest Remington sister both heaven and hell, especially because they had something going a while back and he messed it up big time.

Paige wants to avoid Austin as much as possible, but since they’re going to be family now, that’s a little difficult to do. Then his older brothers ask her be the man’s nurse after his bull-riding incident. Austin doesn’t know when to or like to ask for help, so she’s not keen on being his babysitter. But then again, maybe it will be worth it to rub the man the wrong way as much as she can, the way he’s done her for years now. Thus, the balance of being off balance in each other’s company equals out. Until they tumble into bed again.

His brothers are constantly trying to shield him in every aspect of his life just because he’s the baby of the family. But Austin’s had enough. Of course, he’s just like them, so he runs headlong into danger and ends up injured again when the cattle rustling part of the story escalates even more. It’s his relationship with Paige he’s determined to keep them out of any which way he can. And what a relationship it is. Their love scenes are the hottest of the trilogy for me. Enjoyed every one of them.

Learning he can give up the rodeo and make a life on the Silver Spur, Austin opens himself to his love for Paige, telling her his reasons for his behavior ten years in their past and hoping for true forgiveness to have a life with the woman he never stopped loving. Paige, however, is now able to leave at any time after receiving an unexpected financial boon. Maybe leaving is the easy way out, though. Does she have what it takes to stay to face the feelings she never lost for Austin.

Grade: B

Summary:

World champion rodeo star Austin McKettrick finally got bested by an angry bull. His career over, his love life a mess, the lone maverick has nowhere to go when the hospital releases him. Except back home to Blue River and the Silver Spur ranch. But his overachieving brothers won’t allow this cowboy to brood in peace. They’ve even hired a nurse to speed along his recovery. Paige Remington’s bossy brand of TLC is driving him crazy. As is her beautiful face, sexy figure and silky black hair.

Paige has lost count of the times Austin has tried to fire her, but this determined nurse is not going anywhere until he’s healed, body and heart.

Austin’s brothers are laying bets that Paige’s place in his life just might become permanent.

Read an excerpt.

Okay, Sybil, these books aren’t perfect. But even with a few faux pas, they’re light and easy to read, have engaging characters, especially the sexy men and the precocious children, and I still had fun with them. I don’t mind that real-life things get overlooked, that’s not part of why I read anyway. Entertain me and I’m happy. Yeah, sometimes I’m a darned easy but happy reader.

Overall Grade: B

Lawson’s review of Wicked Sinful Nights by Julia Latham
Historical romance released by Avon 12 Jan 10

The myth of the League of the Blade continues with the brother of Adam from Taken and Seduced in this story. The second in the Raised by the Blade trilogy has Robert Hilliard traipsing about Medieval England to prove himself to the League. The third will no doubt follow the youngest Hilliard brother.

Robert Hilliard is sent to investigate the murder of Viscount Drayton. Suspected, but not accused, of the murder is Sarah Audley, the nursemaid to Drayton’s young son, now the Viscount. Many also believe Sarah is the late Viscount’s mistress as well, since he took her in after unproven rumors she may have killed her husband. Robert in disguise, with his fellow Bladesman, stay at the Drayton keep to conduct their investigation.

Robert begins to believe that Sarah is innocent of everything she’s been accused of and sets out to find the proof. While doing this he begins to admire Sarah’s resiliency and independence. He then begins to think of the life he missed due to his unusual upbringing by the League sequestered from society. Robert also struggles to be a gentleman with the widowed Sarah, though he begins to fall for her quickly.

Sarah knows she always has to work for what she has. She can read and write, though that didn’t save her father’s estate, nor herself when her husband died. When Drayton hired her, she felt she could finally have a home and cared for Drayton’s young son, Francis. When Drayton dies, Sarah fears she may be forced from the place she now calls her home. Robert’s arrival complicates things, especially when she finds out the gossip about her being Drayton’s mistress and possibly killing him. Both Sarah and Robert work to clear her name from suspicion, find the real killer and find their own happiness.

Sarah was a good heroine, if a little complacent. She is a woman of her time, figuring out how to work for her living based on her skills, instead of living by what a man could provide for her. She does begin to whine a bit near the end about where she’s going to go next, convinced she’ll be tossed out on her ear and Francis will be raised by someone else.

Robert’s predicament is that he is a young man who enjoyed his freedom and didn’t live up to the impossible standards set for him by the League. Since he has to prove he’s capable of being a member of the League and not just another noble out for pleasure, his easy-going nature is subdued in the book. The experiment to raise the Hilliards obviously failed, but the League seems to not want to admit the mistake or understand the behavior of the boys coming out of that situation.

Other than that, the murder is solved satisfactorily in the end, with the suspicions correct in some ways. What didn’t work was the constant attempts to implicate Sarah, which distracted from Sarah and Robert’s story. The story would have worked better as well if the League’s reasons for sending Robert weren’t so flimsy and the subterfuge necessary on Robert’s part to investigate Sarah. But then there wouldn’t be a book at all.

Grade: B-

Reckless Sir Robert Hilliard has one last chance to remain a member of the League of the Blade, the daring fraternity of elite knights that secretly raised him. A Bladesman has been poisoned, and Robert must uncover enough evidence to hang the murderess. It seems quite simple, really…until he meets the red-haired beauty and falls hopelessly under her spell.

He may be handsome, but Sarah Audley quickly discovers that Robert’s no knight in shining armor. He’s out to convict her for murder! Though Sarah vows her innocence, forces beyond her control are gathering against her. Even worse, she cannot deny her own flaming desire for this man who’s so dangerous…and so irresistible.

To satisfy their burgeoning passion, Robert may have to sacrifice his only dream. But he’ll gain something even more precious–Sarah’s undying love.

Read an excerpt

Other books in this series:

Liviania’s review of Spider’s Bite (Elemental Assassin, Book 1) by Jennifer Estep
Urban fantasy released by Pocket 26 Jan 2010

I love Jennifer Estep’s Bigtime series.  They’re funny and sweet romances.  Then she went and wrote a more traditional urban fantasy series, starring an assassin – one of my favorite character types.  I couldn’t resist buying Spider’s Bite.  I’m glad I didn’t, because Estep maintained her charm while writing something completely different.

Gin Blanco is just about ready to retire.  She’s young, but being an assassin pays well.  Unfortunately, her most recent client double-crosses her and kills her mentor/foster father Fletcher.  He was also the middleman, and Gin doesn’t know exactly who hired her.  But she’s going to find out, and then she’s going to kill him or her.  It’s an action-packed opening and the rest of Spider’s Bite lives up to that promise.

I liked that Estep doesn’t try to soften Gin.  She isn’t angsty or torn about her job.  She kills people, she’s good at it, end of story.  In fact, she’ll do it pro bono sometimes.  Gin doesn’t like child rapists, and I assume most readers don’t either.  Gin is more worried about her magic powers.  She doesn’t like using them much, since doing so could attract the city’s movers and shakers, which is what got the rest of her family killed (probably).

Estep also surrounds Gin with interesting characters.  There are the dwarf sisters who help her  with crime scene clean up and healing.  There’s the vampiric club owner, willing to help Gin out since she took care of a problem for her.  There’s her foster brother Finn, the son of an assassin and brother to an assassin who logically became a banker.  While he’s a white collar criminal, he’s still good as back-up.  There’s also Donovan Caine, the straightest cop in the city, who is exactly the cop Gin needs to solve Fletcher’s murder.  The Dating Catwoman scenario always gets me.

If you’re a fan of the Bigtime series, you might not like the Elemental Assassin series.  It’s much darker and less romantic.  Conversely, it’s just as well-written and stands out from the urban fantasy crowd.  I finished Spider’s Bite quickly and moved immediately to Web of Lies.  The overarching plot, the search for the killer of Gin’s family, is just as compelling as the self-contained plots within the novels.

Grade: B+

Summary:
My name is Gin, and I kill people.

They call me the Spi­der. I’m the most feared assas­sin in the South—when I’m not busy at the Pork Pit cook­ing up the best bar­be­cue in Ash­land. As a Stone ele­men­tal, I can hear every­thing from the whis­pers of the gravel beneath my feet to the vibra­tions of the soar­ing Appalachian Moun­tains above me. My Ice magic also comes in handy for mak­ing the occa­sional knife. But I don’t use my pow­ers on the job unless I absolutely have to. Call it pro­fes­sional pride.

Now that a ruth­less Air ele­men­tal has double-crossed me and killed my han­dler, I’m out for revenge. And I’ll exter­mi­nate any­one who gets in my way—good or bad. I may look hot, but I’m still one of the bad guys. Which is why I’m in trou­ble, since irre­sistibly rugged Detec­tive Dono­van Caine has agreed to help me. The last thing this cold­hearted killer needs when I’m bat­tling a magic more pow­er­ful than my own is a sexy dis­trac­tion … espe­cially when Dono­van wants me dead just as much as the enemy.

Read an excerpt here.

Lawson’s review of Bitten by Cupid by Lynsay Sands, Pamela Palmer and Jaime Rush
Paranormal Anthology released by Avon 12 Jan 10

Obviously I’m a sucker for Lynsay Sands. When Syb handed me this book, I snapped it up. I get a lot of the historical romance as well, so this was something to lighten the historical TBR pile. Plus, Sands’ contribution is the story of Tiny, who I’m sure many have been asking for. I got to experience some new (to me) authors as well.

Vampire’s Valentine by Lynsay Sands

Tiny McGraw was a secondary character in A Bite to Remember. He’s a private investigator and Jackie’s partner. Tiny and Mirabeau LaRouche, an Argeneau cousin, are assigned to protect Dani McGill’s sister from the Immortal Hunter from those that are still looking for her. Mirabeau realizes quickly that she can’t read Tiny, her appetite is coming back and they’re lifemates. What made this story work outside of the obvious lifemate setup was Tiny’s enthusiasm for it as well as his enjoyment of getting Mirabeau to eat his cooking. It was cute, but not a lot of depth.

Grade: B-

Hearts Untamed by Pamela Palmer

Zeeland and Julianne are members of a race called the Therians. The Therians were shapeshifters once upon a time, but now they only shift in their dreams. They apparently have an enemy that could control some interesting magic. Zeeland left Julianne when he began to see her as a woman and felt Julianne was far too young. Julianne has waited for Zeeland for the last ten years, though the Therians are ok with free love and free bed partners.

This story was rather weak. The Therians didn’t make much sense, with their shapeshifting past and how they lost it. The backstory needed wasn’t really there. The characters all seemed a bit flat as well, there wasn’t much development. Not my cup of tea.

Grade: D

Kiss and Kill Cupid by Jamie Rush

This one was cute at first. Then came the serial killer’s thoughts and I was totally turned off. Especially when Kat, the heroine, hears these thoughts but can’t hear the thoughts of Adrian, the hero. Oh, and they’re part of a secret government project. I couldn’t get through this story at all. I’m not a bit suspense fan and the serial killer’s thoughts in the first couple of pages made me not want to read it.

Grade: DNF

I don’t know what overall grade to give this one, since the last story was a DNF.

Overall grade: C (or DNF)

Sandy M’s review of Viking in Love by Sandra Hill
Historical Romance published by Avon 26 Jan 10

I have to tell you that I was very hesitant to read this book. I’ve only read two other books by Ms. Hill and, sorry to say, they did nothing for me. Actually, one I did not finish and the other, a novella, I did not like at all. The humor, I guess, is just not my kind of humor. So I just wasn’t very thrilled to begin another of her stories.

Now I’m happy to say that this book broke the mold and I actually enjoyed most of it. I had an issue or two starting out, but those eventually melted away once I got to know the characters.

Breanne and her numerous sisters are visiting their youngest sibling just after she’s received a brutal beating by her brute of a husband. The women decide he doesn’t deserve to live any longer. They take care of the body by dumping it into a privy currently under construction, a fitting end to the POS. Because they expect reprisal if the deed is discovered, they trek cross country to a distant relative’s to seek sanctuary.

This is where they meet up with Caedmon. He’s a lax lord, lounging around with his men all day, children of unknown parentage running wild, all living in a unkempt castle, and a host of other things the sisters can’t abide upon arrival, and they take it upon themselves to straighten the castle and its people out. Each has her own skill, so they go about their respective duties in efficiently cleaning up the place.

Though Caedmon isn’t concerned with much in his day-to-day life, he does care about his people and you can see that in the way he treats his children, even those thought to be his. This is one of my issues I had early on with this hero. It’s not made clear until later that those extra children aren’t his by blood but they are his of the heart. This is when the man’s true colors truly come out and I began to like him more. He definitely has honor.

Breanne and Caedmon go at each other constantly. At times it’s fun and at times it’s not. I think it’s that humor thing for me again. Sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn’t. But, for the most part, I liked their banter and their dance around each other.

I also did like all of the sisters. When faced with them in a horde all at once, I don’t think folks really knew what hit them. But they’re all feisty and witty and very intelligent, not letting anything or anyone stand in their way. They stand by each other no matter what.

Since this is my first Viking book by Ms. Hill, I will try another. I do have the majority of her books in the TBR because as I collected them, they seemed to be the kind of book I thought I’d enjoy. I’m glad my disappointment in her work has been waylaid, at least as of now. I’m actually looking forward to the next one I pick up.

Grade: B

Summary:

All Lord Caedmon of Larkspur wants, after nine long months in the king’s service, is a bit of peace…not five bothersome Viking princesses who invade his keep, especially not the fiery redhead, Breanne. He has half a mind to kick her tempting arse out the door…but wait…he has a much more wickedly delightful plan for this thorn in his…um, side.

Princess Breanne of Stoneheim is shocked at Larkspur’s rundown condition with servants and children running wild whilst Caedmon lies abed after a night of mead and, no doubt, wanton bedsport. Breanne must endure the loathsome lout to protect her four sisters. She can hardly imagine what this knight will demand of her in return.

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Notorious Eliza by Barbara Monajem
Historical romance short story ebook released by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Jan 2010

Thanks to Georgette Heyer, the Regency time period has been romanticized to within an inch of it’s life.  This is great fun for readers who enjoy that sort of thing – proper young ladies, rakes reformed by true love, endless balls, galas and trips to Almack’s.  Then there are readers like me who get worn out from all the shiny, and go turning over rocks looking for the seedy underbelly.  Barbara Monajem ‘s debut short story for Harlequin Historical Undone can’t really be classified as “gritty” – but it’s so breathtakingly refreshing that I can even overlook the fact that the heroine commits one of my hot button pet peeves.

Eliza Daughtry has a notorious reputation.  Before her husband died, they delighted in flaunting convention, thumbing their noses at society, and doing as they pleased.  It’s all come back to haunt her now though.  Her husband’s death left their finances in chaos, and she’s been earning a living painting nude portraits of other men’s mistresses.  Since “good girls” shouldn’t know what nude bodies look like (even their own), and she very comfortably paints pictures of whores, well that means she must be one.  But our girl really has no other option.  She’s an extremely gift painter, the job pays exceedingly well, and she’s a single mother to a young son.

Patrick Felham is a rake, who married a woman whose reputation was just as wild as his own.  When she dies in an accident, that makes him a single father to their young daughter.  The girl needs a mother, so Patrick has been making the rounds looking for a suitable, proper, gentle born wife.  Unfortunately, none are forthcoming.  Not because of his reputation, but because all these “acceptable” beauties end up showing their true colors before he pops the question.  Then he gets word that his uncle has hired Eliza to paint over some scandalous portraits.  Patrick was great friends with Eliza’s late husband, and even rescued a nude self-portrait of Eliza from an auction house.  Now the delectable woman is right under his nose, at his uncle’s estate.  What to do, what to do?

Take everything you know about Regency historicals in Romance Novel Land, and throw it out the window right now.  Patrick adored his scandalous wife, and the rumors surrounding her death have hurt him deeply.  Eliza actually ::gasp:: loved her late husband, and ::double gasp:: enjoyed having sex with him, and ::triple gasp, dead faint:: misses having sex!  She’s also fed up with painting nudes, and more than past fed up of thwarting the advances of the men who hire her.  Patrick is the first man to cross her path in five long years that kicks her libido into overdrive, but she’s well aware of how the world works, and knows full well a brief affair is all it can ever be.  Or can it?

Where this story stumbles is after the first sexual encounter, and Eliza’s reaction to it.  For someone so smart, her reaction to the lack of “prevention” (yeah, let’s call it that) was insipid, insulting and out of character.  Frankly, she starts out incredibly refreshing and that one scene has her reverting back to common clap-trap found in countless romance novels I’ve thrown against walls over the years.

That huge, massive misstep aside, I really did enjoy this story.  If ever a romantic couple were made for each other, it’s Eliza and Patrick.  It was also nice to read a Regency-set tale that was the flip-side to the stories we mostly tend to see in the genre.  It was naughty, sexy, and while not perfect, was a very good show indeed.

Grade: B-

Summary:
Eliza Dauntry was infamous. Most people assumed she was a wanton because she supported herself and her son by painting portraits of courtesans. Yet Eliza hadn’t been tempted by a man since her husband’s death…until she met Patrick Felham. An old friend of her husband and a one-time rake, Patrick awakened a yearning in Eliza that demanded to be satisfied at once….

Patrick was looking for an upright woman to become his wife and stepmother to his daughter, not a siren like Eliza Dauntry! But Eliza had aroused his desire ever since he saved her scandalous self-portrait from the auction house. The chance of an affair with the alluring widow was irresistible, but this notorious woman could also turn out to be his perfect bride…

No excerpt found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of An Accidental Seduction by Michelle Willingham
Historical romance short story ebook released by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Jan 2010

I’ve often said that the short story Harlequin Historical Undone line is like a gateway drug.  I read them because they’re quick, sexy reads, and often times I find myself getting sucked into a series or trying full-length novels by new-to-me authors.  This latest from Michelle Willingham is a prequel to her February Harlequin Historical release, An Accidental Countess, and introduces us to the romantic couple.

Emily Barrow is the daughter of a Baron, but thanks to family scandal her situation is rather dire.  Firmly on the shelf, she’s living a hand to mouth existence at the family country estate.  It’s so bad that she’s let all the servants go, and most of the furniture is gone, either having been sold off, or used as fire wood.  In fact, that’s what Emily is doing at the start of this story.  She’s out trying to split wood so she’ll have heat for the night.  That’s where childhood friend, and unrequited love, Stephen Chesterfield, the Earl of Whitmore finds her.

Emily tries to snow the man, but she doesn’t fool him.  Emily is too thin, wearing little more than rags, and while she maybe holding her head high, things have gotten very bad indeed.  Stephen is determined to protect her.

What follows is a story in the vein of Cinderella.  Nice, smart, resourceful girl, who has been cast aside by her useless relations gets rescued by handsome prince.  It’s straight-up rescue fantasy all the way.  Normally the sort of story that gets on my last good nerve, but Emily carries the day by not being one of those Victorian misses who meekly sits in the corner waiting for Prince Charming to arrive on the scene.  Of course she’s living hand to mouth, and things are anything but rosy, but bless her heart – she’s trying and doing the best she can.

Since this is a prequel, the author has to hold some of her cards back for the full-length novel that features the same romantic couple.  At that end, as a stand-alone story, this one isn’t perfect.  The happily-ever-after is extremely reserved, and one is left with the impression that Stephen and Emily are together, not so much because of true love, but because she needs a knight in shining armor, and he needs a wife who doesn’t annoy the crap out of him to get his matchmaking mama off his back.  But the story does end in a nice spot that sets the reader up with the hope that these two crazy kids are eventually going to realize how hopelessly in love with each other they are.  It’s not the best stand-alone tale, but as a prequel, it’s top-notch.  Now I’m really looking forward to reading An Accidental Countess.

Grade: B-

Summary:
Emily Barrow once dreamed that she could marry Stephen Chesterfield, the Earl of Whitmore, and be saved from her dreary life. Then Stephen’s father sent him away, leaving Emily broken-hearted…

Now Stephen has returned to find Emily destitute and alone. He has vowed to help her without compromising her honor…but Emily has other ideas. She doesn’t want his charity, but she does long to know what it would be like to take him as a lover, even if marriage is out of the question. Confined to close quarters with their passion burning as brightly as ever, will Stephen be able to resist the temptation and rescue her, or give in to his desire and completely ruin her?

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Liviania’s review of Prince of Montéz, Pregnant Mistress by Sabrina Philips
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Presents 1 Jan 10

This was my first Harlequin Presents.  I know from the other duckies (and reviews elsewhere) that this line is a bit of a crapshoot, often full of doormats and borderline abusive men.  And yet, I picked this one blind.  I didn’t know any of the authors, so I selected based on a title that was funny but not too funny and a blurb that sounded like something I would read.  (Not that you can always trust titles and blurbs.)  So I was surprised to find that I truly enjoyed Prince of Montéz, Pregnant Mistress. 

(As for the title?  It’s accurate, but Cally Greenway doesn’t get pregnant until the last third of the novel, making it a spoiler.)

Cally became an art restorer because of Jacques Rénard’s Mon Amour par la Mer [ed.: presumably a make believe painting - couldn't find a reference to it].  In the opening chapters, which remind me of a classic children’s book, the painting is on auction.  If the museum wins, Cally will be able to fulfill one of her greatest desires.  Unfortunately, the museum loses to a private buyer.  Fortunately, an attractive man chats her up.  Unfortunately, the two of them aren’t going to be able to meet again and Cally isn’t a sleep-with-strangers kind of girl.  Fortunately, he’s so suave she decides to have some fun anyway.  Unfortunately, it was a secret moral test and she failed.

Leon has his reasons for wanting a woman who can stick to her word – he rules a country that doesn’t allow the press to write about the royal family.  He might’ve forgiven the one lie, but he knew Cally also lied to him about why she wanted to restore the paintings.  Of course, which woman is more discreet: the one who gives a non-answer to a personal question or the one who tells her life story to a total stranger because he’s hot?  Aside from that major flaw in his logic, I do understand where he’s coming from.  (And he becomes more understandable when the greedy sister-in-law arrives.)  However, Cally is most qualified so he hires her to restore the paintings.  Then, neither of them can ignore the sparks.

He does treat Cally badly at points.  I can stand it because Cally doesn’t put up with it.  She calls him out, and refuses to be live with someone who doesn’t respect her.  Her confidence was damaged by an earlier relationship, but Cally is still no doormat.  Sabrina Philips made me believe that Cally and Leon would fall for each other, and that Leon would grovel to get her back.  I believe absolutely that they’ll have happily ever after.

I was extremely nervous going into my first Harlequin Presents, but I enjoyed the foray.  I’ll be back for more, though I’ll try to remain cautious about which stories I pick.  I know I’ll be likely to try another Philips, at least!

Grade: B+

Summary:

It’s the night of a most glamorous art auction in London, and Cally Greenway is due to land the restoration commission of her dreams…. Until the paintings sell to an unknown bidder and, devastated and dashed, Cally uncharacteristically finds solace in the arms of a handsome yet ruthless stranger.

He’s the very same man who bought her precious paintings—the Prince of Montéz! Leon summons Cally by royal decree—His Majesty wants a mistress: biddable, pleasurable…and pregnant?
Read an excerpt here.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Erotique: Carrie (Erotique Story #1) by Susan Lyons
Erotic romance short story ebook released by Spice Briefs 1 Jan 10

Sometimes an ending can completely ruin an otherwise fine story, and sometimes it’s the ending that totally makes the story.  This first story in Susan Lyons’ Spice Briefs trilogy is an example of the latter.

Carrie looks like your average suburban soccer mom.  However every few weeks she hires a babysitter, gets dressed up in very un-mom-like attire, lets her hair down and hits the private sex club, Erotique.  Erotique is very exclusive and caters to a myriad of fantasies that range from casual flirting to BDSM.  Carrie doesn’t stray too far to the wild side, but she knows tonight she wants passion.  Hot sex, with a hot stranger.  She finds her mystery man, dressed like a riverboat gambler, downing a fine brandy, and he’s more than willing to show her a good time.

To be blunt, this is a fairly conventional story featuring some hot, vanilla sex.  For readers who like the hot stuff, but don’t want to wade through a bunch of kink – this is a good, solid choice.  I’ll admit, the set-up and story weren’t really doing a whole lot for me.  Wow, an exclusive club where people can explore their sexual fantasies?  I’ve only read that a time or two or thousand.  Then I got to the ending.  It’s the ending that truly makes this story, and probably one I should have seen coming, but didn’t.  What could have been a been-there-read-that erotic short, easily forgotten, is instead made memorable by an ending that left me with a smile on my lips.  Good show!

Grade: B

Summary:

Normally Carrie is a very responsible person…but she still likes to walk the line every now and then. That’s when Carrie visits Erotique, a private club where members don costumes and use false names to explore their secret fantasies. For Carrie, it’s a chance for the suburban mom to feel like a sex goddess—especially when a certain masked man is waiting for her….

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

Lynne Connolly‘s review of Bought: Damsel In Distress by Lucy King
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Presents 1 Jan 10

A goodie. Even the title, if taken ironically, isn’t too bad. The blurb, however, is pretty dire. 

Due to a baggage strike at Heathrow, Emily can’t attend the wedding of her ex in France, and her sister thinks Emily needs closure. While she and Tom didn’t work out, she’s allowed herself to drift, and she needs to move on.

So her sister puts Emily up as a damsel in distress on “an Internet auction site.” Emily, while outraged, goes along with it when her sister gets the details of Luke Harrison. He’s willing to give her a lift in his jet, as he’s going there anyway. Hang on, a hero and heroine who know how to use the Internet? Wow. It is really good to read about people who accept the net as part of their lives, sending emails, not letters, carrying laptops and using them, not bunches of paper.

Of course Luke is gorgeous, but although there’s a definite spark between them, he doesn’t try to blackmail her or threaten her into sleeping with him. So I liked Luke. This being a romance, they do sleep together, and then part, to go their own ways. Only, this being a romance, they don’t.

And no, she doesn’t get pregnant from that weekend’s encounter. Hooray. Really. Sometimes I dislike the pregnancy forcing the h/h together. It doesn’t always work, although it’s being used quite a lot.

Emily is a confident, modern woman in control of her life, and praise be, not a virgin. Luke is a futures trader, and since this is the line for it, he’s wealthy, but he lost his wife three years before in a car accident. Praise be again, he loved his wife, and toward the end says he’ll always love her. He didn’t discover she was having an affair, tricked him into marriage or anything else. I really enjoyed that aspect. He’d let his life atrophy a bit, although he had dated since his wife’s death, he hadn’t met anyone he liked enough to take to bed. So not a manslut.

The dialogue between Emily and Luke was great. I could see the attraction developing as they got to know each other and I enjoyed the insights into each others’ minds they revealed when they talked. Witty, intelligent and just right.

I did find the end a bit of a disappointment, with one of the old Harlequin tropes coming into play but I can’t say that it spoiled my enjoyment overmuch because by then we were pretty much on the downward slope to the happy ending. I did, however, like Emily’s explanation of why she didn’t want a baby, ever. It rang true. And the reason why she liked being a high-ranking temp, although I find it hard to believe that companies would trust a temp with confidential material, without that temp being a consultant, or signing a confidentiality agreement. So I mentally wrote one in.

Since it’s spoiled by the official blurb anyway, yes, Emily does get pregnant later on. I just want to know what brand of condoms Harlequin heroes use, because you can almost guarantee they won’t work. I really don’t want to come across that brand.

I think this is Lucy King’s debut book for Harlequin, at any rate, I haven’t come across her work before. A good one, and I’ll definitely be looking out for more of her books in future. A for this book. Go, Lucy!

Grade: A

Blurb:

Billionaire’s bid.

Luke Harrison is always in control. But ever since he bid for the chance to save a green-bikinied beauty he’s felt his self-possession slipping away.

Blind date.

Independent Emily does not want rescuing – until Luke, a smouldering knight in shining armour, swoops in on his private jet and starts to change her mind!

Secret baby?

Neither is prepared for the heat between them as Emily unbuttons her steely-eyed billionaire, or for when their no-strings fling leads to pleasure beyond their imagining.

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Too Hot to Print by Stephanie Bond
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jan 10

I have to say, I was somewhat disappointed with this story. I felt that it was more a brief than a novella, and rather mislabeled. I’ll explain more below. However, I do want to point out the very proper and pleasing use of “too” and “to” – so kudos to Stephanie Bond and Harlequin for that one!

I realize that this is a novella, and it’s clearly stated on the cover. Nevertheless, I thought it was a bit short for a novella, and it was more what I would have been expecting in a Spice Brief, than a Harlequin Blaze. It was very short on romance, and aside from the fact that you’re led to believe the characters might give it a go in the end, there isn’t really a happy ending either. (I think the reader is more to assume the characters will get together, than know so.)

Gabrielle Pope and Henry Wells aren’t very developed. Both are strangers to each other, and the reader, unfortunately. Insight into Gabrielle is almost better given by the secondary characters.

Rather than emotions and close interaction, it really seemed to be impersonal sexual encounters. I’m having a tough time quantifying this story. I think had this been marketed as a Spice Brief, it would have gotten an average grade, in the C range. However, as it was sold as a Harlequin Blaze… sadly I was left wanting. There was also something a bit cold about Henry, and slightly pathetic about Gabrielle. Her obsession with being [or not being] an “old spinster librarian” seemed to be the point most expounded.

I do have to say props to Ms. Bond for posting an excerpt on her website.

Grade: D+

Summary:

How much sex is too much sex?That’s what librarian Gabrielle Pope is wondering. Thanks to a chance encounter with sexy-as-sin Henry Wells, she’s indulging in sensual acts she’s never even dreamed of. And she’s loving every minute of it…

Unfortunately, Henry’s not a local—he’s only in town on a seven day business trip. So Gabrielle has to decide—does she go back to searching for Mr. Right, or give in and totally indulge with Mr. Right Now. Because if this is going to be the best sex of her life, she’s can’t waste a single minute of it….

Read an excerpt here.

Liviania’s review of My Soul to Save (Soul Screamers, Book 2) by Rachel Vincent
Young adult urban fantasy released by Harlequin Teen 29 Dec 09

My changing feelings about Rachel Vincent’s novels have been well documented on the internet.  What has been less documented is the fact that sometimes I read other people’s reviews before I write my own.  Sometimes it sharpens my focus, other times it confuses me.  For My Soul to Save, it was the latter situation.

I expected more comments about the dark ending.  I expected remarks about the social satire and thinly veiled barbs aimed at Disney, which are particularly well-timed given the public meltdown of Lindsay Lohan.  I expected comments about the gender politics.  I just didn’t expect all of the comments about the gender politics to be completely opposite of my own observations.

Many reviewers dislike Vincent’s banshees because they are hysterical women who can only be calmed by a man.  I can get behind that being a bad subtext.  Now, I can’t blame Vincent for Kaylee, as a banshee, being a screaming woman.  Bean sidhe means female fairy.  Banshees wail before deaths in the common folklore.  The man part is Vincent’s invention, so that’s what I’ll focus on.

First, Kaylee doesn’t need boyfriend Nash to stop her wailing.  She did in My Soul to Take because she had no clue what she was or how to use her powers.  Now Nash’s mother is teaching her to control her wail, she can let it out a little at a time instead of becoming hysterical.

Second, I see Vincent’s banshees not as an interesting take on gender dynamics, since the females have the most agency.  Kaylee can interfere with a Grim Reaper on her own.  She can cross over into the Netherworld on her own (perhaps unwisely).  The only thing she can’t do on her own is prevent someone’s death.  Nash, and all of the male banshees, have no power without a female banshee.  He can’t direct a soul back into a body without Kaylee’s wail.  He can’t even do that often, since it pisses Reapers off and causes someone else to die.  Males only have power thanks to the females, and even then they rarely get to use it.

But really, subtext is subtext.  What about the text?  My Soul to Save is an interesting and well-presented story.  When Nash’s deceased brother Tod’s girlfriend Addison sold her soul, she had no idea what she was getting into.  Now Nash, Tod, and Kaylee are trying to save her – unfortunately, Addison was destined to die young.  And not even Kaylee’s wail can prevent her death since she has no soul.  There are clever plans in abundance, selflessness, and a nice sense of urgency.  But hoo-boy is the ending dark.

Maybe I’m deluding myself about the gender issues, but I like my interpretation.  If I thought the series was down on women I would not be nearly as excited as I am for book three.

Grade: B

Summary:
When Kaylee Cavanaugh screams, someone dies.
So when teen pop star Eden croaks onstage and Kaylee doesn’t wail, she knows something is dead wrong. She can’t cry for someone who has no soul.

The last thing Kaylee needs right now is to be skipping school, breaking her dad’s ironclad curfew and putting her too-hot-to-be-real boyfriend’s loyalty to the test. But starry-eyed teens are trading their souls: a flickering lifetime of fame and fortune in exchange for eternity in the Netherworld—a consequence they can’t possibly understand.

Kaylee can’t let that happen, even if trying to save their souls means putting her own at risk….

Read an excerpt here.

Sandy M’s review of Catch of a Lifetime (Mer Series, Book 3) by Judi Fennell
Paranormal Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 5 Jan 10

Judi Fennell’s fun, lighthearted series comes to an end with this book, and there’s a little more seriousness in this one than the previous two. I think that’s probably why it’s my favorite of the three. There’s still the whimsical aspect of life under the ocean, sea monsters and all, but when it comes to life and death in this book, it has a little more impact than its predecessors.

I think that has to do with the fact that a child is involved in this story. Children always seem to pull at the heart strings with their vulnerabilities but stiff upper lip facade, all the while their chin quivers as they hold back emotion. You can’t help but love them and hope all turns for the best. Michael is no different in this case.

But let’s start at the beginning. Angel is the sister of Rod and Reel (I still can’t help but chuckle a little when referring to those twin brothers), who are the heroes of the first two books. She’s always been fascinated with humans. But Rod, now High Councilman of Atlantis, won’t even give her an interview for the coalition he’s proposing to finally let humans know all about their existence, in hopes of cleaning up the planet of its pollutants. So she’s going to prove to him and the rest of the council she’s the woman for the job. What she doesn’t count on is Harry the Hammerhead.

Finding a beautiful, sleeping woman on his boat is the last thing Logan expects, his reaction to her the next least expected thing. As much as he’d like to explore that reaction, his six-year-old son is now living with him after being dumped by his mother, so he puts a damper on the libido and tries to get rid of the woman fast. That doesn’t quite work when Michael gets a look at her and she ends up being the boy’s babysitter. And working her way into Logan’s heart.

Having taken refuge on Logan’s boat when Harry spies her as a late-night snack, she immediately becomes quite smitten with Logan, the best specimen of a human she’s ever seen. And Michael works his magic on her too. But when Logan finds out Angel is Mer, his logic flies out the window and he demands she get out his life for good. With nowhere else to turn, Angel goes home to face the Council, knowing her fate is dim due to all of the laws she’s broken in associating with Logan and Michael.

But it’s Michael who can’t bear the loss of Angel and goes in search of her under the ocean with the help of a shark looking for dinner. Logan quickly follows to rescue his son, Angel intercepts him, taking the blame for the current circumstances, and they find themselves trapped by the ugliest monster from the sea’s depths. So they must work together to save the child, even though Angel knows their survival is slim to none.

I’m a sucker for father and son stories and Ms. Fennell does a good job of getting the roiling emotions running through both Logan and Michael as they learn about each other. Angel is the princess who’s gotten everything any girl could want, except what she wants most, or at least she thought so. Things change quickly for both Logan and Angel, ups and downs along the way, heading for their happily-ever-after.

This was an enjoyable series and Catch of a Lifetime tops it off quite well. The series doesn’t take itself too seriously, though. It’s to be read to take away the doldrums, not as a heavy, full-of-platitudes book you have to concentrate on. Take it for what it is and you’ll have fun with it.

Grade: B+

Read more about this series by following its tag here.

Summary:

She’s on a mission to save the planet…

Mermaid Angel Tritone has been researching humans from afar, hoping to find a way to convince them to stop polluting.

When she jumps into a boat to escape a shark attack, it’s her chance to pursue her mission, but she has to keep her identity a total secret…

When he finds out what she really is, they’re both in mortal danger…

For Logan Hardington, finding a beautiful woman on his boat is surely not a problem—until he discovers she’s a mermaid, and suddenly his life is on the line…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Gwen’s review of Pride Mates (Shifters Unbound, Book 1) by Jennifer Ashley
Paranormal romance released by Dorchester/ Leisure 26 Jan 10

This is the first of  a new paranormal romance series from the ever-busy Jennifer Ashley. We are given a new world where Shifters are “out”, learning to live in a world where humans know what they are and treat them as second-class citizens.  It’s a very promising start to what should be a fresh take on a well-worn idea.  Plus, the book is based in Austin, so how bad can it be? 

Turns out, not bad at all.  I really enjoyed this book.  It seemed like a short, category length book, though it’s over 300 pages.  I think the book’s pacing and terrific dialogue (internal and external) made it seem shorter.

The heroine, Kim, is funny, smart, and righteous.  She stands by those she believes in and this makes her the Shifter leader’s worst nightmare.  The leader and the book’s villain, Fergus, has his own selfish reasons for Kim to fail in her defense of one of his clan.

The hero, Liam, is sexy, smart, loving, and oh-so-alpha.  He’s a very complex hero and I loved that.  Ashley has drawn him as a complicated mix of all that is admirable in a man and some of the things women bemoan.  I loved his easygoing nature and how he supported his community.  His love for Kim caught him by surprise and this makes him endearing.  One of the better heroes I’ve read lately.

The book sets a lot of groundwork for this new series.  We’re introduced to a new world where Shifters will have to fight for their rights.  The degree to which Shifters are treated as second-class citizens seems a bit extreme in our PC, ACLU afflicted world (not permitted new cars or cable television? huh?).  I’m ready to roll with it if Ashley is careful not to take it to too much of an extreme and use it for plot devices, and not to beat us over the head with it.

The paranormal elements of this world are very interestingly different from what I have come to expect.  The origin of the Shifters as playthings of the fae is one that should introduce some very good plot elements in the future.  The story in The Mammoth Book of Irish Romance, out 9 Feb, tells much of this history, as well as the origin of the Guardian’s sword (read Pride Mates for this detail).

This book is worth reading simply for the fun of the relationship between the hero and heroine.  I was left smiling several times, and sometimes laughing out loud at some of the things they said.  It is a clever, quick book with some interesting twists that has whetted my appetite for more.

I recommend this to anyone who is a fan of shapeshifter romances or Jennifer Ashley books.  If you like clever dialogue, then you’ll love this book.

Grade: A

Summary:

Twenty years ago, shape shifters of all kinds banded together and announced themselves to the world, only to be shunted to areas no human wanted (“Shiftertowns”). They are forced to wear Collars that control their hunting and fighting instincts (referred to by Shifters as “Taking the Collar”).

Liam Morrissey is currently liaison between the Shifters of Austin, TX, and the humans of the city. Kim Fraser, attorney, finds herself in the unique position of having to defend a Shifter on a murder charge.

She ventures to Shiftertown to seek out Liam’s help, and there stumbles across too many secrets the Shifters want kept secret. The un-mated Liam is forced to protect Kim against the wrath of his clan leader and his own father, and to his surprise he discovers a powerful attraction to the sassy, sexy lady.

Read an excerpt here.  Go here for the series’ site.

Other books in the series:

Limecello’s review of Her Secret Fling by Sarah Mayberry
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jan 10

Sarah Mayberry has to stop it. She’s getting readers – one by one. (Not in the acquiring sense, but in the “I’m gonna getchu” sense.) Making us laugh, and cry, and … well really there aren’t words for it. I don’t actually want Ms. Mayberry to stop. I want her to write more books. More, more, more Blaze books especially. I’ve been in something of a reading slump, but I knew Ms. Mayberry wouldn’t let me down… and she didn’t. This is a terrific story. The characters are unique and unexpected, but so brilliantly normal. She also manages to make a ruined relationship work.

Poppy Birmingham is a great character. I believe she’s an Olympic gold medalist… but aside from being an amazing athlete, she’s rather a novice at all other aspects of life. And that’s what was necessary for her to get where she was in her sport. Unfortunately, this leaves her uncertain and without much confidence in anything but the water. I truly enjoyed reading Poppy’s experiences with a new career, and growth in general.

I have to admit, I got a little annoyed with how stupid Poppy was being or acting… but she knew it too. Which made it more ok. (Though no less self deceptive and annoying.) I still felt for her, however. You can’t dictate your emotions, no matter how logical you’re trying to be – and that’s exactly what happened with Poppy.

Jake Stevens… he’s an ass. A lovable one, yes… but an ass. He’s your “super hero,” – he’s hot, charming, affable, and generally perfect, other than how he treats the heroine. And, women in general, when romantically involved with them. Jake makes up for it with his “grand gesture” – and it was understandable why he acted as he did, and forgivable. He need a major wake up call, and luckily his family is there to give it.

I liked the dynamics between Jake and Poppy. Both were uncertain about things, yet experts in the others. Poppy is a national hero. She’s a world class athlete, but only knows life in competitive swimming. Jake is an excellent journalist, and an acclaimed author. But she’s injured, and he’s stuck. Neither knows how to act in a romantic relationship with feelings involved, and both don’t want to get hurt. They’re both so flawed and refreshingly human.

The secondary characters are fun, and really help move the story along. They don’t distract from Poppy or Jake, rather their colleagues and families give them layers. The family dynamics are extremely different. Poppy’s makes her feel like an outsider, while Jake’s is much warmer and natural. The fact that Poppy is grieving and vulnerable is an important aspect of the story, and both she, and Jake are cognizant of the fact. Ms. Mayberry did a wonderful job.

This book made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me squee, and forgo all the other tasks I had to complete. (Which were many.) Sarah Mayberry is hands down one of my favorite authors, and if you haven’t read any of her books, get one. Especially this one.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Talk about office politics!

Jake Stevens—star reporter and celebrated literary genius—is a snake. How else to explain the way he turns Poppy Birmingham’s hero worship into loathing with a single conversation? So what if she’s got a lot to learn about journalism? Aren’t they coworkers now? On the same team? Jake can take his attitude and…

Then during a job-related road trip, their relationship goes from antagonistic to hedonistic in no time flat. And suddenly Poppy can’t think of anything more delicious than having a secret fling with Jake. But with all this intensity, can she really keep it no-strings-attached?

Read an excerpt here.

Sandy M’s review of Taming the Highland Bride (Devil of the Highlands, Book 2) by Lynsay Sands
Historical Romance published by Avon 26 Jan 10

I keep telling myself, every time I read a current book from Lynsay Sands, that I’m going to pull all of her books from the TBR mountain and put them right on top so I can get to them soon. I love her writing, her characters, her stories, I love everything about her books. Sigh. My problem is time, but I’m one step closer. I’ve found a good portion of her books in that mountain and they’re nearly ready to be read. Just have to find the rest now, because I refuse to read Ms. Sands out of order anymore. I want the full effect from start to finish, and I intend to have it!

This is the second book in the Devil of the Highland series. The hero, Alexander, is the brother of the heroine from that first book, so we do get a little update about Cullen and Evelinde along the way.

Alexander has just learned of his father’s death, so he’s come home from the Crusades at last. That’s when he learns his sister is married to the Devil of the Highlands and he’s determined to make sure she’s well and happy at that man’s hands. But before he can begin his journey, word comes that his intended bride is on her way to him. Having put off marrying the Stewart Shrew so far, it looks as though the deed will now have to be done.

Tired of picking up after and taking care of her father and brothers, drunken sots that they are, when they give Merry the news they’re taking her to her betrothed, her resistance lasts only so long. Anything has to be better than the life she’s led since her mother died. Leaving behind the tedious and heading toward a new adventure, Merry finally comes face to face with Alexander and learns he isn’t any better than the men in her family. Her new life will be exactly like her old.

But Alexander is determined to prove to his new wife that he’s truly not what she believes. So begins the wooing and loving between these two characters, who I thoroughly enjoyed. Alexander is confident in his position as laird, has a good rapport with his people, and knows he’s got a good woman and means to keep her. Merry has a heart that wants to experience love, companionship, and some wildness thrown in for good measure, and she eventually knows that Alexander is the one to give all of that to her.

They work hard at their relationship and when all comes together is when danger shows up on their doorstop and defeating that peril together only makes them stronger. This is another terrific book from Ms. Sands and I’m anxiously looking forward to the third book in the series, The Hellion and the Highlander. Release is only a month away!

Grade: A+

Summary:

She was ready to let her heart run wild . . .

Merry Stewart has had enough! Enough of her brothers, whose behavior would make even the most improper lady blush. Enough of their highland home, which would surely have fallen to ruin were it not for her. She dreams of escaping into the arms of her betrothed, Alexander d’Aumesbery—even though they haven’t yet met. But when they do, Merry is devastated. It seems he’s no better than the men in her family.

So beautiful, so brazen . . . From the moment he meets Merry, Alexander is overcome with desire. Desperate to convince her he’s nothing like the members of her roguish clan, he will prove he is every bit the well-mannered gentleman. Yet beneath it all beats a heart as intense and uncontrollable as hers. And finally, when his life is threatened, Merry realizes he’s the husband she’s been waiting for . . . and their passion becomes the one thing that cannot be tamed.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Limecello’s review of Bossman’s Baby Scandal by Catherine Mann
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette Desire 12 Jan 10

This is a new Silhouette Desire series titled “Kings of the Boardroom.” Yes, and yes. I generally check out Catherine Mann’s books – so I was definitely intrigued by the new series, and the book blurb. The title is misleading, as the hero isn’t the boss, or even a boss, and he definitely isn’t the heroine’s boss. Which, I admit, I liked more than if it had been so. Bossman’s Baby Scandal was a very enjoyable book.

Lauren Presley is a fantastic heroine because she’s smart, capable, likable, successful, and normal. She owns her own business, lives her own life, but everything seems to be crashing down around her. Lauren’s mother is a rather large burden, and her business is failing. I liked that Lauren didn’t hole up and snivel, nor did she go running to someone – especially a man – for help. Luckily, help finds her. Something else I appreciated was that Lauren, while independent, didn’t feel the need to assert herself so much as to detrimentally affect her life. She’s very practical.

Jason Reagert is a darling, and… for the sake of continuing alliteration, also a doofus. He actually cares for Lauren, and wants a relationship with her – but doesn’t himself know it yet. This makes his actions more forgivable, as Jason couches his concern and desire to help Lauren in terms of protecting his career. Jason’s ultimate concern seems to be for his job, but he’s using it as a crutch. The fact that he’s doing so, but doesn’t realize it, made me like him much more – otherwise he would have been a heartless jerk. But Jason has so much more depth than that.

I was intrigued by the secondary characters in this book – especially Jason’s coworkers. I’m wondering if they’ll be featured in the subsequent books in this series. Both Jason and Lauren also had family drama, but it helped bring them together. Additionally, I liked that Jason didn’t reconcile with his parents by the end of Bossman’s Baby Scandal. While there is a happy ending, and a lot of forward progress, the fact that not everything is picture perfect gives the story a realistic quality, and saves it from being too pat or saccharine.

I was utterly satisfied by the conclusion of this book. For once, I felt that the hero and heroine met almost exactly in the middle. Neither Jason nor Lauren gives up too much. They both make changes and adapt, and are willing to sacrifice for the other. Even if it’s not necessary, the thoughts and sentiments are crucial. I also thought it was important that Lauren and Jason didn’t demand changes from the other person. For example, Jason never demanded Lauren completely change herself or give up her life to be with him. In fact, he wanted her to continue doing what she loved – he just wanted to make it easier for her. The fact that both are willing to change and compromise on their separate lives to build one together is a fantastic focal point.

The epilogue was very cute, and I felt that it brought everything full circle- but in a fun and quirky way. I’ve also just found out that Emilie Rose wrote the next book in this miniseries, and as Ms. Rose is one of my favorite harlequin authors, I cannot wait to get my hands on it. I definitely recommend this book to people who enjoy category romances, and those who like Ms. Mann’s books.

And this is relatively irrelevant, but I’d just like to share how very excited and pleased I am that Ms. Mann’s website is updated. Kudos and gold star!

Grade: B+

Nothing had stopped Jason Reagert from making his own millions. And now that he was securely ensconced at Maddox Communications, he was determined to become an even bigger success. Then startling news broke and Jason—along with everyone else—discovered he had gotten heiress Lauren Presley pregnant. He couldn’t afford even a whiff of scandal, so he proposed to his lover of one night. Surely she’d agree to a lifetime of convenience, if only for the baby’s sake.

Read an excerpt here.

Lawson’s review of Sex on the Beach by Susan Lyons
Contemporary Erotic Romance Released by Berkley Heat 5 Jan 10

It’s cold outside. There’s snow on the ground. And my TBR pile is all historicals. I think most of them are set during the winter, or at least the colder months. So I jumped at the chance to read this book, set in Belize, on the beach, and having to do with warmer weather (even if it is set during February, Belize is tropical). Sandy beaches, skimpy clothes and even the cocktail (and the act itself) where the title comes from make for a nice, warm read during the winter months.

Though there are three separate stories in this book, I’m going to keep this a review as a whole, rather than make a distinction between the three stories. They all have the same setting, take place during the same time, and relate because it’s people all at the same wedding wanting a fling in the tropics during winter and end up with a little more.

The three stories revolve around the wedding of Danny and Bella at the Toucan Resort in Ambergris Caye. The first story follows the wedding planner, Sarah McCann and Freeman Lafontaine. Free is trying to save his best friend from making the mistake of marriage and keep living the footloose and fancy free live. Sarah doesn’t like this plan, she sees Danny and Bella as having true, life long love. Sarah and Free are attracted to each other, from the first moment they meet and have a fling in secret. Free keeps trying to stop the wedding and Sarah is working hard to see her clients get their happy week and special day. Though Free does step over the line, majorly, he does redeem himself well.

Perhaps the best part of this first story was the fact that it was about Free’s immature view of how adults behave and Sarah working to show him he was wrong, rather the fact that he’s black and she’s white. The story is sexy and about people, rather than about race. Free would have been better if he wasn’t as immature and single-minded for most of the story, but that was the point of his character and he does get his just desserts in the end.

The second story follows Tamiko Sato and Ricardo Nunez. Tamiko is a fashion model, but because of abuse in her past she’s wary of men. Ric is the resort’s owner and doesn’t like to get involved with guests, but he can’t help being attracted to Tamiko. They both have issues to deal with, one of which being Tamiko is at the wedding as the date of Zane Slade (a famous, but in the closet writer of a James Bond-esque hero) and Ric’s family in Belize. It was a sweet story as Ric helped Tamiko come out of her shell and be a sexy woman. Tamiko also was able to relax and not worry about supporting her family for a week, which she obviously needed.

The story was rather short to deal with the major issues both characters had. It was sexy and both Tamiko and Ric are sweet, sensitive and complex characters, and the length wasn’t enough to make their story seem like it could get the justice it deserved. The last story is different than the first two. Though it takes place over the same time, it’s not as rushed as two strangers are meeting and getting busy before getting to know each other.

The last story is about Bella’s parents, Giovanna and James Moncrieff. They had a sexy and torrid courtship in Italy when they were young, and Giovanna ended up pregnant. With James’ job as a professor, he wasn’t as considerate as he could have been (he really sounded like a selfish jerk) and Giovanna couldn’t see the trouble he was having with his job and supporting his young family and yelled at him alot due to her passionate nature (she did sound like a selfish and immature bitch).

Time has passed and this is the first time they’ve really spent time together in twenty years. The flashbacks to how they fell in love were as fun as seeing these two stubborn, yet very much in love people spar and sizzle across the pages. And the flashbacks are set in sunny and summer time Italy, so the warm weather feeling gets doubled.

All three stories do end with some happiness, though they don’t rush to the alter, which is nice to see. Just people that have a fling and see the possibilities for a future. The shortness of each story did take away from the depth each one probably needed, but the sparks that especially James and Giovanna had made the characters and the setting a fun winter time read.

Grade: B-

Summary:

An exotic wedding turns into an erotic escapade for three unlikely couples who find lust—and maybe even love—on the white sands of Belize. Get ready to get wet!

“War of the Sexes”

When wedding planner Sarah McCann learns that the groom’s best friend, Free Lafontaine, intends to save his pal from the mistake of marriage, it’s an all-out war between the sexes. Turns out, the prize could be much more than either of them expected, and this war just may have two winners.

“Sex With the Proper Stranger”

Model Tamiko Sato comes to the wedding as arm-candy for the groom’s deep-in-the-closet uncle. What’s she to do when resort manager Ric Nuñez proves far too tempting? Ric just might be the man who can help her heal the wounds left by past abuse, and open her heart to love.

“Sexy Exes”

Giovanna Moncrieff and her ex, James, mix as well as Italian olive oil and English tonic water. How embarrassing—and exciting!—to find that their passion for each other still burns hot and heavy. Is it possible to find true love the second time around?

Read an excerpt.

Limecello’s review of The Italian Billionaire’s Secretary Mistress by Sharon Kendrick
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Presents 1 Jan 10

Yes, I hate the title. Yes, the image at the top of Sharon Kendrick’s website creeps me out. But. Yes, I love the secretary-boss romance. Maybe because I don’t in real life, so the fictional hook gets me. Yes, I love Italian Billionaires. As a result? I had to buy and read this book. A very Harlequin Presents book, but I knew what I was getting into.

I feel like some explanation is necessary. For some reason, I think I got Ms. Kendrick mixed up with another author. One I’d decided to avoid, after I stopped reading the book and considered using the edges to give myself paper cuts on my eyes – which was preferable to the pain of going on. My apologies to Ms. Kendrick. Nevertheless, the title was so ridiculous, and the premise (yes I did read the book blurb and excerpt before buying) so tantalizing, I couldn’t refuse.

This book has some of my favorite cliches. The mousy secretary. (Two in one deal!) The hot Italian boss- who is also a billionaire. (Three in one!) A woman- the heroine- learning of her own self worth. Check. (After all, that’s why she wants to leave, right?) A love story where the hero is brought to his knees after falling head over heels in love. Check, double check, and check mate. I was reading this book come hell or high water.

Angie Patterson starts out as a promising character – smart, sensible, a little shy, but ready to move on. She has a crush on her boss, but knows that’s pretty much hopeless. She lives her own life, and loves her family – Angie is normal, and content. Unfortunately, as soon as Riccardo shows her any attention she tends to lose all her intelligence. I love that Angie makes some changes for herself – but was so frustrated that she immediately caved as soon as Riccardo snapped at her. Angie does, however, come to her senses at the end, and I thought that was fantastic.

Riccardo Castellari saves himself right at the close of the book. I spent most of the book disliking him. He’s arrogant, and a jerk. Riccardo definitely gets around, and doesn’t think much of Angie. Even when he has sex with her. (Or, he does, but doesn’t know it himself until the end – which didn’t make me very kindly disposed towards him.) However, he’s nice to Angie when she’s sick, and free with material things. His impassioned speech at the end – the “groveling scene” is also quite good. So, Riccardo, although he generally made me want to smack him in the face, ends up as a tolerable, if not likable character.

Unfortunately, this book hit too many plot snags for me. The financial and social differences between Angie and Riccardo were fine, and believable, but their personalities were a bit much. Riccardo spends most of the book as an utter ass. Consequently, Angie comes off not as a character in love, but something of a doormat – and rather thick, considering all the abuse she takes from Riccardo. I definitely don’t think he treated Angie well enough – especially when the origin of the red dress is revealed.

There’s sexual chemistry between the characters for sure, but… I didn’t really enjoy it, actually. I think it’s because of Riccardo’s actions. He’d be berating Angie, and she’d be feeling sick and upset, and then wham suddenly turned on. But, even more, or worse, than that, was after intimate moments, Riccardo was a first class jerk. It read like he was using her for sex, and was never emotionally involved. Just upset he felt funny. It made their intercourse rather tawdry at times. However, this is saved by Riccardo’s random spurts of kindness. He’s gruff and abrupt, but does care about Angie’s well being. I just wish it had been more apparent and prevalent. Then the good parts and romance would likely be more memorable.

I found the book to be rather average. Generally enjoyable while reading it, but at times frustrating, and ultimately forgettable. I remembered key scenes from it, but had to re-skim to write the review, and was shocked to discovered I’d forgotten a large part of the plot. I did, however, love the random twists and turns, and unexpected moves the characters made. And… as much as I’m done with series, I wouldn’t mind reading Romano Castellari (the older brother’s) story, if he has one.

Lastly, the ending of the story put a smile on my face. Riccardo travels across half the world to find Angie, and is so matter of fact about his love. It’s sweet, and so very fitting for them.

Grade: C-

Summary:

Riccardo Castellari has never seen Angie as anything other than his mousy secretary—until she flaunts a silky red dress that hangs on her every curve. Now he doesn’t just look once, but twice!

Angie is helpless to refuse one night of exquisite pleasure with Riccardo. But back at work her cheeks are burning. Mortified, she tries to resign. Riccardo has other ideas—in order to leave, Angie must serve out her notice as his very personal mistress…

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Coming Undone by Lauren Dane
Contemporary erotic romance released by Berkley Trade 5 Jan 10

I loved this book. Loved. If 2010 is anything like 2009, Coming Undone will be part of my top 10 reads of the year. This was a contemporary novel that hearkened back to why I started reading romances in the first place. A heavy focus on relationships, both romantic, and general interpersonal ones. Family, friends, community. Then of course there’s the love story. Fantastic. The moving of the hero and heroine towards each other, and falling in love. Heart wrenching scenes, and words that come alive. I found myself speaking out loud in response to certain scenes or situations – I couldn’t help commenting, I was that invested in the story.

Normally, I don’t like a heroine with a sad past. Or, I don’t like that anymore because its so overused. I sometimes wonder if it’s against some secret author code, that the heroine have a relatively normal, well adjusted past. Admit it – it’s become a trope. (And it seems with Ms. Dane in particular.)

However, here, I was ok with it for Elise. She’s a ballerina. While I’m not friends with any professional ballerinas, I have friends of friends who are. And close friends while I was younger who were serious dancers. It’s like an alternate universe. Taking that into consideration, Elise was almost boring. I liked that – she’s normal, and grounded, and incredibly well adjusted. Hooray for her! She’s also got a rather crazy past. I know it’s cliche, but artists are weird. She was married to one. Living in New York. I can accept all of that. More importantly, I can believe that the events her past happened, and aren’t that rare.

In a way, Brody is the “less realistic” character. He raised his brother and sister – two incredibly successful musicians, he’s a tattoo artist… and frankly I want one. A Brody, that is. He’s smart, caring, nurturing, mature- pretty much everything you’d want in a guy. He has his own house, is domesticated, loves his family, owns a business that is doing well… and of course, he’s hot. And is related to rock stars. He’s so perfect that of course he’s fiction. And only fiction. However, Brody is believable too. He screws up like any person will. Brody also has a few incredibly dense idiot guy moments. He’s kinda clueless. It’s endearing, yet frustrating.

I really liked how family was such a big part of this book. Both blood, and those you choose to incorporate into your family circle. Personally, that’s something I identify with very well, and I think most readers will also. You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends, who in a way become your family.

One very minor thing that stuck out to me, and resonated with me – is how Brody’s tattoos don’t show when he’s dressed up. He goes to court with Elise, and his tattoos don’t show. Even though generally his tattoos are prominently displayed. I liked that. The way I interpreted it, is that Brody is grounded, and realistic. Sure, he loves his tattoos – he loves his work and takes pride in it. They’re something he shows proudly.

On the other hand, he also knows that general opinion is less favorable towards tattoos. Especially a more conservative outlook, and perhaps particularly in court, where things are just more formal. Brody doesn’t whine about it, or rail at the injustice or unfairness of it. He knows and understand that people judge based on appearance. Right or wrong, it happens. This is such a tiny, minor detail. Just one sentence in the novel – but to me, it just gave the characters, and the story so much more depth. And that’s just one example.

My only “beef” with the book really, is the gratuitous sex between Erin and her two “husbands.” It was unnecessary… but still fit. I just associate it as being the random “boob shot” that was and is so prevalent in tv shows and movies. Erin is an incredibly important part of the book, as are Todd and Ben. Actually, as the relationship is developed with their triangle, it worked- and provided a nice break from the main story. So… basically, I have no real complaints.

I loved this book. I loved it so hard. While I did read the previous book, Laid Bare, it was not my favorite by Ms. Dane. It’d help if you read the books in order, but I don’t think it’s necessary. If you want to skip the first, fine – great. But don’t skip this one. I’m serious. Read this book. Make your friends read this book.

This is a terrific romance. In fact, my review is so vague because I want you to go buy this book and read it. And then come back here and comment so we can squee like little girls over it.

Grade: A+

Summary:

KEEPING IT TOGETHER

Brody Brown has always been responsible for others. After his parents’ death, he gave up a promising artistic career to care for his younger brother and sister. Now, with his siblings grown, Brody owns his own business, has a nice house, makes a nice living, and for the first time in years he’s on his own.

Elise Sorenson has come to Seattle with her young daughter to find peace. After years as a world-famous ballerina—(and just as many years in a marriage-gone-bad)—she’s looking for neither love nor attention. But she finds both in the handsome, honest man who befriends her with no strings attached.

More than friends, Brody and Elise discover in each other what they need—wild, physical passion without commitment. But it’ll take a shadow from Elise’s past to make them look beyond what they need—to what they truly desire.

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Powerful Italian, Penniless Housekeeper by India Grey
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Presents 1 Jan 10

This is my first book by India Grey, and it definitely won’t be the last. I used to like Harlequin Presents the most as a Harlequin line, but it got to be a bit too much for me. Aside from a few of my go-to authors, I had been avoiding it. However, I decided to venture back, and had to admit that I loved the premise of this book. So I gave it a try – and am so very glad I did. Books like Powerful Italian, Penniless Housekeeper are what made me devoted to the line in the first place. (Although yes, I do so wish the titles were different.)

Sarah Halliday is a heroine who is difficult to describe. In a way, she’s hard to get to know, as pieces of her character and personality are slowly revealed throughout the course of the book. I actually liked that she was essentially two different people when dealing with her family, and then in general. Sarah’s life is a bit of a mess at the beginning, and she’s desperate. On the other hand, Sarah is very strong. She has an adorable daughter, and while being the rational, steadfast one in her family, has led a somewhat non-traditional life. I liked that there were little quirks about Sarah that kept her from being too predictable or cookie cutter. Sarah isn’t assertive or protective of herself all the time, but when her back is against the wall, she does make decisions best for her. I really liked that. Sarah is an incredibly strong heroine – not physically, but emotionally and mentally when it’s important.

I found Lorenzo Cavalleri to be a delightfully confusing character. First he was a very nice guy, and then a jerk, then considering, but also manipulative. This was fitting, because Lorenzo himself is confused. He has a plan, and a goal. Unfortunately, people are involved, and emotions always make things uncertain, confusing, and messy. Poor Lorenzo has all his ducks in line… except for Sarah, and she’s the most important one, for various reasons. While I understood Lorenzo’s motives and reasons, on some level, I didn’t… and I actually like that. It kept him, and the story from being too pat. Lorenzo can be a jerk and abrupt, but he has a conscience, and feels deeply. His guilt and confusion make him brusque with Sarah at times, and that adds a special something to their developing relationship. Oh- and he’s also an incredibly gifted and talented movie director. That helps.

Ms. Grey writes a terrific story here – everything falls into place just as it should. Nothing is too perfect, or too wrong, or too much. It’s a thin line that requires delicate balance, and Ms. Grey walks it with aplomb. At one point it did seem to me that Sarah was too put upon, but it makes sense, because she’s lived her life feeling as if she was not enough- and that she is to blame for her father’s death. (It sounds ridiculous, or maudlin, but truly isn’t. I believed Ms. Grey’s story, and am completely behind it.)

The honest misunderstanding between Sarah and Lorenzo, the hurt they experience and how close everything comes to falling apart- all of that was done realistically, and naturally. None of the scenes or scenarios between them felt contrived to me, and perfectly fit both the situation, and the personality of the hero and heroine. Lorenzo and Sarah acted as themselves, which gave both their persons, and the story an appreciable depth. In fact, this book made me cry. There were some scenes where I knew exactly what would happen, and it did as I predicted… but the language and words that Ms. Grey used were just so evocative.

What I didn’t enjoy as much, was the secondary characters, particularly Sarah’s family. They were so one dimensional, and vapid. Not only that, but it seemed they changed a bit too much and inexplicably at the end. Nevertheless they were minor characters, so it wasn’t something that really detracted from the book. It was nicely balanced that both Sarah and Lorenzo had their own baggage to deal with.

I loved that the Lorenzo and Sarah were connected in a way, even before they met. It takes a lot for me to get over the hurdle of the hero being married to someone else at the beginning of the book… but Ms. Grey definitely convinced me here. And as I haven’t mentioned it… Lorenzo does some terrific groveling. There’s a big misunderstanding, but it makes sense. Kudos. Reading this Presents book has prompted me to read others, and I can only hope they’re all as good as this one.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Though Sarah Halliday is very ordinary, her dangerously attractive new boss is not content with her scrubbing the marble floors of his Tuscan palazzo….

Instead she finds herself catapulted into Lorenzo Cavalleri’s star-studded life—with a wardrobe to match! Makeup masks her blushes, silk evening gowns flatter her fuller figure, but underneath Sarah’s still the shy, frumpy housekeeper Lorenzo hired…and not the sophisticated bedroom siren he seems to be expecting….

Read an excerpt.

Doesn’t come out until July 28, 2009 I have been told amazon is wrong and it isn’t coming out until JAN 2010.

And I don’t see a cover yet but sounds interesting…  The Duke’s Captive by Adele Ashworth

As the last male heir, Ian has inherited a dukedom after the death of a distant cousin, a legitimate title he can now claim proudly. With his new title, and the enormous wealth that comes with it, he feels it’s finally time to marry and breed some respectable heirs, to at last let go of the vague memories of being held captive and drugged five years before. Widowed at twenty-three, Viola has become a self-sufficient young woman living in London and raising her son. She wants no part of her former life, especially now that she has a titled son who must be protected. More than anything, Viola’s goal now is to raise her son respectably while forgetting her past – that is until she meets Ian again and her comfortable world is shattered.When Ian receives a note informing him that Viola is out of mourning, he seeks revenge on the woman whose family changed his life five years ago – when her sisters kidnapped, drugged him, and left him chained to a wall in a dungeon for several weeks. But Ian is also falling for Viola and will go to any lengths to make her his mistress, even threatening to expose her to all society and imprison her. And although Viola’s startled to learn Ian knows many of her secrets, she has some shocking secrets of her own.