Sandy M’s review of Animal Attraction (Animal Magnetism, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 4 Oct 11

Jill Shalvis is simply magic. Her characters are always so charming and endearing, and I’ve been loving all the characters in this Animal Magnetism series. The addition of the animals in the storylines just makes reading them that much more fun, as is evidenced by the opening scene in this book. I knew right then this would be another winner to read. Amid the fun, however, there’s sensual sparks flying all over the place, but there is the underlying frustration and melancholy when two people made for each other just can’t see the forest for the trees.

Jade ran from family and friends after a traumatic experience in Chicago while at work at the family medical facility. She dead ended in Sunshine, Idaho, at Belle Haven Veterinary Clinic, taking over as bookkeeper/receptionist/office manager – you name it, she did it. Obviously, she’s very overqualified for the position. But Del and his brothers needed the help, so she was hired. Belle is a perfectionist, she likes everything nice and tidy, and she loves spreadsheets. Everything goes on a spreadsheet, personal as well as professional items.

Dell has commitment issues. Doesn’t most every hero when we first meet them? But Dell’s issues come from abandonment, his parents’ most of all. So he leaves any and all women before they can leave him. No fuss, no muss, and no hurt. He and Belle have been dancing around one another for nearly a year and a half. Just when things begin to change between them, it’s going to be time for her to head back to Chicago. But they keep dancing. And Dell feels like Jade will be abandoning him too.

With her failure on her mind the closer the time to go home gets, the more she hesitates and thinks maybe she should stay put. She’s found a home with Dell and his brothers. And Lilah, the heroine from Animal Magneism, has become her best friend. A nosy friend but a good one. Leaving Dell is also something she doesn’t want to do, their relationship so new. So intimate. So right. But she’s promised everyone in Chicago she will return, go back to the family business just like nothing happened there before.

These two together are so much fun to read. Dell figures out enough of what’s bothering Jade, so he offers to teach her some self-defense moves to boost her confidence, to help her know she won’t be so helpless if something so frightening ever happens to her again. Jade is so in control of her own life, you’d think she would want to control everything and everyone else, but not so. She knows her boundaries and keeps them, only moving into Dell’s space when given the go-ahead. He can’t keep an organized office to save his life, and it drives her crazy, but she keeps her distance until Dell is ready. Allowing Jade to accompany him to see and help his mother and her friends is also a nice touch, especially when we find that Adam doesn’t feel the same way as Dell concerning their mom. I like that Dell and Jade get to know one another like this, the big things and the little things in life, which also instills more and more trust between them.

As usual, Jill Shalvis has given readers another perfect romance. And this is a romance through and through. Just a small mystery in the beginning about what happened to Jade, but outside of that it’s smooth sailing to love, with some four-legged creatures to help things along. We get caught up with Brady and Lilah, and it’s nice to see how they’re doing. Adam is now the odd man out, but his days are definitely numbered, of course. And I’m definitely look forward to his book to see what Ms. Shalvis has in store for him and her readers.

Grade: A+

Summary:

She’s tempting his basic instincts…

Sunshine, Idaho, is a quiet ranching town, a perfect place to give injured animals a refuge…or to find one. And veterinarian Dell Connelly suspects there’s a reason his clinic’s uber-efficient receptionist has taken shelter here.

Jade Bennett couldn’t be happier to escape her well-meaning but smothering family and their expectations, not to mention the big-city jungle. There’s nothing like working with injured animals, having a forlorn, grumpy stray kitten make its home under her desk…or enjoying the gorgeous views of her ruggedly sexy boss.

Jade is used to planning everything in her life, but Dell’s understanding has sparked an uncontrollable desire. And though Dell has never had time for love, Jade’s strength and sass is the kind of call no red-blooded male can resist…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of Animal Attraction (Animal Magnetism, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 4 Oct 11

What happens when a control freak temp and a commitment-phobe of a vet collide?  It can’t be good, right?  Especially when the temp’s time is almost up and she will be moving hundreds of miles away.  Not to worry, faithful reader, if Jill Shalvis is in charge of things, you know you’re in good hands.

Jade Bennett has worked at the Belle Haven Animal Clinic for eighteen months but is finally getting ready to end her “temporary” job.  She had planned to leave after a year but wasn’t quite ready to – and maybe she still isn’t, but she promised her family she would return to Chicago and take up the obligations there she dropped so quickly.  Jade was working late at her family’s offices and there was a break-in.  It affected her more than she thought and Jade just couldn’t make herself go back to her office.  Instead, she just started driving and eventually found herself at Belle Haven – and they were in dire need of someone to run the office side of things.

Dell Connelly never intended to keep Jade around as office manager – she was only supposed to fill in until someone more qualified was found. Little did he know that Jade would soon make herself indispensable.  Now Dell can’t help but feel like she is abandoning him – and the clinic, of course.  He can talk almost any creature into doing what he wants, but he can’t talk his way around Jade.  She’s had his number from day one. Jade and Dell have danced around each other ever since she arrived at Belle Haven.  Neither one will acknowledge the attraction, but it’s there.  Finally, just before it’s time for Jade to go back home, they can’t fight it anymore.  Isn’t that always the way it goes?

I like the way Jade works through some of her issues from the break-in with self-defense training.  And I think it’s insightful of Dell to know she needs something like that (especially since it’s based on very little information – very private, Ms. Jade is).  And when Dell finally turns Jade loose in his office to clean and organize it?  Best unspoken “I love you” ever.  :-) Letting her go with him to his mom’s is too, but the office thing?  So sweet!

Is it really suspenseful, as far as the whole “will Jade return to her old life and never look back”?  Not so much.  But this is a romance, people!  Are Dell’s issues with his mom completely explained and resolved?  No – although more information might come to light in Adam’s book.  But this isn’t a psychology treatise, either, is it, faithful reader?

I enjoyed Animal Attraction.  Even control freaks and commitment-phobes can find love.  Jade and Dell are a fun couple and manage to find hidden depths in each other – he lightens her up and she finds his more serious side.  I’m looking forward to Adam’s book. If you want a good, solid contemporary romance with characters that are fun but not silly, Jill Shalvis never disappoints.

Grade: B

Summary:

She’s tempting his basic instincts…

Sunshine, Idaho, is a quiet ranching town, a perfect place to give injured animals a refuge…or to find one. And veterinarian Dell Connelly suspects there’s a reason his clinic’s uber-efficient receptionist has taken shelter here.

Jade Bennett couldn’t be happier to escape her well-meaning but smothering family and their expectations, not to mention the big-city jungle. There’s nothing like working with injured animals, having a forlorn, grumpy stray kitten make its home under her desk…or enjoying the gorgeous views of her ruggedly sexy boss.

Jade is used to planning everything in her life, but Dell’s understanding has sparked an uncontrollable desire. And though Dell has never had time for love, Jade’s strength and sass is the kind of call no red-blooded male can resist…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

C2’s review of The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance published by Grand Central 1 April 11

Jill Shalvis’s The Sweetest Thing takes us back to the seaside town of Lucky Harbor to visit with Phoebe Traeger’s daughters.  This time Tara, the oldest daughter, is on deck for her happily ever after…but will it be with her first love – local bad boy Ford Walker – or with her racecar driver ex-husband who just showed up in town?

Tara Daniels life has changed a lot in a few years.  She used to be the wife of a celebrity with money and social power.  Now the money and power are long gone, and she and her sisters are struggling to get a business off the ground.  And Tara does not need distractions…but how do you ignore a large, gorgeous, flirty male (one you’ve already seen naked)?

Ford Walker is a professional sailor – as in sailboat racing – a former Olympian, even.  When he isn’t off somewhere exotic winning all sorts of competitions, he lives in Lucky Harbor and helps his best friend, Jax, run his bar.  Lately, though, Ford has been feeling less…something.  Or something is missing and he can’t quite figure out what it is.  Until he does figure out what’s going on – well, pestering Tara is always entertaining.

As tempted as Tara is, taking Ford up on his flirtatious offers isn’t something she can do.  The last time she and Ford got together, everything ended badly – as in teenage, unwed pregnancy – and Tara isn’t willing to go through that again.  And nothing about the grown-up Ford’s life convinces her a relationship would be anything but temporary.  Tara doesn’t think Ford is willing to work for something like that and will walk away when things get difficult or when he gets bored, whichever comes first.

The sisters are working to get their inn ready to open and still have lots of things to take care of before it is ready for the public.  There is a lot riding on having a successful business, so the last thing Tara needs is another distraction…so, of course, her ex-husband shows up, determined to get back together.  Logan is famous, he’s rich, he’s handsome and charming. Ford is jealous and annoyed.  And Tara does not want to deal with two men competing for her attention…she’s already stressed out!

What could possibly raise Tara’s stress level even higher?  The arrival of the daughter she gave up for adoption years before.  Apparently, Phoebe left Mia some money in her will.  Mia and her dad were able to track down Tara and Ford, and Mia applied for a summer job at the inn. Surprise!

Even though it seems like all the things going on would distract from the romance in the book, it really doesn’t.  Sure, Logan’s around, but he’s never a real competitor…he’s just a good way to get Ford to focus on what he wants.  And having Mia turn up makes Ford and Tara deal with the issues left over from when they were teenagers – issues that are standing in the way of them getting back together and staying together.  Very smart plot weaving, says me.

That doesn’t mean the road is completely smooth.  Tara and Ford both have others issues they need to deal with – internal issues everyone has to address at some point – what is really important, what makes them happy, etc.  What happens if everything doesn’t mesh and they still can’t find a way to be together and happy?  Ah, faithful reader, it’s a romance.  Of course they end up happy and together!

Before I started reading The Sweetest Thing, I wasn’t sure…  In the first book of the series, Tara is not the most likable character – and she stays her sometimes bitchy, anal self – but it makes more sense and we see more sides to her.  Ford is hot!  And not an immature womanizer – even if he is a pro athlete of sorts – he is just unsettled and not sure what to do next. He doesn’t start out as a frat boy caricature, but he does mature and grow over the course of the book.  The scenes with Ford and Mia are so sweet and his suspicions about her boyfriend are funny.

Does this book stand alone?  Yes.  But the first book is very good and you get more background about Phoebe, so why not start there?  Did it make me anxious for the next book?  Oh, gosh, yes – I’ve been intrigued by the baby sister and the sheriff since the beginning (book coming soon – yay!).

If you’re looking for a good straight up contemporary romance with sweetness and heat and humor, look no further…Jill Shalvis always delivers.

Grade: B+

Summary:

Two Men Are One Too Many . . .

Tara has a thousand good reasons not to return to the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington. Yet with her life doing a major crash-and-burn, anywhere away from her unfulfilled dreams and sexy ex-husband will do. As Tara helps her two sisters get their newly renovated inn up and running, she finally has a chance to get things under control and come up with a new plan for her life.

But a certain tanned, green-eyed sailor has his own ideas, such as keeping Tara hot, bothered . . . and in his bed. And when her ex wants Tara back, three is a crowd she can’t control-especially when her deepest secret reappears out of the blue. Now Tara must confront her past and discover what she really wants. If she’s lucky, she might just find that everything her heart desires is right here in Lucky Harbor.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in the series:

Sandy M’s review of Animal Magnetism (Animal Magnetism Series, Book 1) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 1 Feb 11

It’s been way too long since I’ve read Jill Shalvis. Her books just make me so happy. This book is as funny, emotional, and romantic as can be. I laughed out loud, every rapturous or miserable feeling that the hero and heroine go through shivered its way through me too, and I choked up as they each faced their fears when life no longer goes as planned. This story is the perfect any-time read.

Though Lilah has her own issues after the tragedy and pain of her past and is straightforward in everything she does, it’s Brady who has to change the most, coming to grips with allowing those who love him into his life, learning that having a home can be for him. Brady is also the one who gives me the most laughs throughout the book. I’m not talking a chuckle here and there, but a full-out, laugh-out-loud belly laugh. When he tells Abigail the duck, after enough quacks to drive him crazy, “I know this great duck soup recipe,” and the duck actually settles down without another peep, well, it was one those times the laughing just wouldn’t stop. Of course, it’s the lead-in with all the animals in Lilah’s life and the fact they’ve just met when she rear-ends Brady’s truck that lead to the giggle fest. It’s immediate attraction and you can feel the heat between them steaming off the page even this early.

They’re both okay with just the attraction between them. They’re not looking for permanent. Brady will only be in Sunshine for a month to help out his foster brothers, who’ve lured him to stick around to repair a helicopter they want to use in their vet business. At first Brady really doesn’t want to stay, but his brothers know him well. He loves to tinker with flying machines and he loves to fly them. Of course, it doesn’t hurt at all that Lilah is just across the field where she runs the local Humane Society while she finishes school.

I also have to laugh at Brady’s talking to his new companion, a cute, small dog called Twinkles, a name which Brady just can’t bring himself to use at first. Asking Twinkles where his pride is when the dog rolls and exposes his belly for scratching and other such “unmanly” things brought tears I laughed so hard. Brady is a man’s man. He’s alpha, never begs, and protects those he cares for. Twinkles’ giving up everything for a rub and a scratch just doesn’t sit well with Brady. What he doesn’t realize is he’s going to lose his heart not only to Lilah but this unwanted but happy puppy dog too. That’s part of what makes Brady such a lovable hero. He’s ex-military, hard-bodied, doesn’t take any guff from anyone, but with Lilah and her animals, he’s a softie, even at his own amazement.

Lilah is one of those women who does for everyone else. Everyone loves her and wants to protect her. Especially Del and Adam, Brady’s brothers. She’s the little sister they never had. She does hold her own with Del and Adam, as well as her exes, all of whom are still her friends. It’s Brady who, at first, throws her for a loop. She falls into lust with him for the very same reasons the reader does. Smoldering, sexy, eyes to die for, and a bod that won’t quit. Knowing he’s going to leave in a month’s time is fine with Lilah. She’s just looking for some fun and Brady fits the bill. I love their time at the lake, playing tell-it-all Uno (though Brady would love to play strip Uno LOL), ultimately making tender love under the stars. One of the best scenes in the book.

The love scenes between these two go from intense to playful, full of want and need and always agonizingly sweet due to the fact they know it won’t last beyond Brady’s limited time in town. And when that time comes, Lilah knows she has to let him go. He taught her that. When her heart is broken having to return her new-found pet to its owner, he tells her it’s the best thing for the animal. So it’s also the best thing for Brady to make him happy, even if it breaks her heart again. You feel their despair, their longing, and their need to do the best for the other during those good-bye scenes.

I love every last thing about this book. Brady and Lilah are a charming, heartwarming, and romantic couple. I can’t wait for the next books in the series. Del and Adam are just as charming and as much fun as Brady, and I hope Ms. Shalvis continues to make me laugh with them.

Grade: A+

Read C2′s review here.

Summary:

This alpha male is going to bring out her wild side…

Sunshine, Idaho, is a small and sunny town—the perfect home for man and beast. Well, maybe not for man, as pilot-for-hire Brady Miller discovers when his truck is rear-ended by what appears to be Noah’s Ark.

The co-owner of the town’s only kennel, Lilah Young has good reason to be distracted behind the wheel—there are puppies, a piglet, and a duck in her Jeep. But, she doesn’t find it hard to focus on the angry, gorgeous stranger she’s collided with.

Lilah has lived in Sunshine all her life, and though Brady is just passing through, he has her abandoning her instincts and giving in to a primal desire. It’s Brady’s nature to resist being tied down, but there’s something about Lilah and her menagerie—both animal and human—that keeps him coming back for more…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Animal Attraction – October 2011

C2’s review of Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 1 Feb 11

You know those times you are in the mood for a good, straight-up contemporary romance?  No paranormal creatures lurking around, no crazy spies doing stealthy stuff, no serial killers, ax in hand – just a good story between two regular folks.  Books like that can be hard to find, but Animal Magnetism more than fills the bill.

Our hero is Brady Miller, a former military pilot who now flies for a company that handles all kinds of dangerous stuff.  Brady has returned to his hometown for a month-long visit to help out his foster brothers. They have an ancient helicopter that needs some TLC.  And if someone were interested in signing on as its full-time pilot (hint, hint Brady), that would be just fine with them too.  Brady isn’t interested in being tied down to a place or to any relationships.

Our heroine is Lilah Young.  Lilah runs the local animal rescue/boarding service and is finishing her degree in her not-so-spare time.  Everybody loves Lilah – she grew up in the area and is always there to help out whenever needed.  Lilah is used to patching up creatures, taking extra special care of them, finding them good homes and letting them go…and if she loses pieces of her heart along the way, she doesn’t get dramatic about it.

Lilah and Brady meet when she rear-ends his parked truck. Not an auspicious beginning, but the chemistry is there from the start. We watch them get together – both knowing Brady is only in town for a month, both knowing they each have too much going on in their lives to do anything serious. And they manage to keep things light, at first. Sometimes things get out of control, though. The pull of attraction is too hard to resist and then things get serious.

Animal Magnetism is that rare find I mentioned – an excellent, straight-up contemporary romance. From the small town setting to the fun (and intriguing) supporting cast to a fabulous hero and heroine – everything works. This book is an entertaining and romantic story you won’t want to put down…and when you get to the last page, you keep turning because you want to read more but the pages are blank! Sequel, please? Soon?

Grade: A

Summary:

This alpha male is going to bring out her wild side…

Sunshine, Idaho, is a small and sunny town—the perfect home for man and beast. Well, maybe not for man, as pilot-for-hire Brady Miller discovers when his truck is rear-ended by what appears to be Noah’s Ark.

The co-owner of the town’s only kennel, Lilah Young has good reason to be distracted behind the wheel—there are puppies, a piglet, and a duck in her Jeep. But, she doesn’t find it hard to focus on the angry, gorgeous stranger she’s collided with.

Lilah has lived in Sunshine all her life, and though Brady is just passing through, he has her abandoning her instincts and giving in to a primal desire. It’s Brady’s nature to resist being tied down, but there’s something about Lilah and her menagerie—both animal and human—that keeps him coming back for more…

Read an excerpt.

Are you tired of top ten lists, faithful reader? I hope not because here’s mine.

10. Rules of an Engagement by Suzanne Enoch – what could be better than sailing the South Pacific, encountering natives, fascinating wildlife and pirates? If your ship’s captain is smoking hot, of course. Read my review HERE.

9. Pleasures of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole – an very good entry into a consistently excellent series.

8. Lessons in French by Laura Kinsale – soooo nice to see Ms. Kinsale back and full of humor.

7. Slow Heat by Jill Shalvis – I love Ms. Shalvis’ baseball series and hope for more books soon. Please? Pretty please??

6. Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas – the end of the Hathaway series. I’ve always had a soft spot for Beatrix and was very pleased with her book. Also, I’m a sucker for books with letter writing.

5. Infinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon – the first story in her Chronicles of Nick series. I’m not usually a YA reader but I was intrigued enough by hints of this one to pick it up. So good! And she seems to be correcting/re-booting some errors in the main DH series, maybe. We shall see.

4. Play of Passion by Nalini Singh – one of my favorites of the series and certainly my favorite of recent entries. Plus we get to see bits of Hawke and Sienna. Yay!

3. Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey – are you looking for an excellent straight-up contemporary? Look no further! And the sequel is very good, too.

2. Here There Be Monsters by Meljean Brook – so it’s a novella. And I was skeptical, even after seeing the raves. Why would I put a novella I was unsure about picking up on my “Best of” list? Because it’s awesome! It gives us our first glimpse into Ms. Brook’s Iron Seas series which leads me to…

NUMBER 1!! The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook – I don’t have words for how excellent this book is. It defies description – at least, a description that properly conveys it’s awesomeness. All I can say is READ IT.

Now for some books I’m looking forward to in 2011 (in release order, as things stand now):

Call Me Irresistible by Susan Elizabeth Phillips – yes, I know several people have already read this one but I haven’t. My copy is pre-ordered though. Why? It’s Teddy’s book! It seems like I’ve been waiting for his story forever.

ShadowFever by Karen Marie Moning – why this one? Barrons! And the wait is almost over. Yay!

A Lot Like Love by Julie James – I have enjoyed all of Ms. James’ books so far and expect this one to continue that trend.

Breaking the Rules by Suzanne Brockmann – do you need to ask why? One word: Izzy Izzy Izzy! (What? It’s one word…three times.)

Any Man of Mine by Rachel Gibson (beware the Flash!) – her last few books have been hit-or-miss for me so I’m hoping this one will be a hit. Sorry for the lack of cover. Our friends over at the Book Binge have it posted, though.

There are many more, of course, but those are the ones that are coming up soonish.

Agree? Disagree? What are you looking forward to?

Dinca’s review of Flashpoint by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jul 08

Jill Shalvis defiantly lights a fire with this one. The sparks are flying from page one. I can’t believe the hammock the hero is lazing in doesn’t go up in flames when the heroine’s gaze lusted upon him. Talk about hot stuff.

The story is about Brooke O’Brian, who takes a temp job as an EMT with the Santa Rey Fire Department where Zack Thomas also works as a firefighter. The camaraderie and friendship are strong. The place runs like a winning team with all the players functioning at their best during an emergency call. But around the firehouse it’s more like an elementary school yard. They even give Brooke a nickname and refuse to call her anything else except ‘New Hire’.

Brooke has inherited a house from her grandmother she had never met.  Her six-week temp job allows her the time to pack it all up before putting it on the market and moving on. During the packing up she runs across some old diaries of her grandmother that has her wishing she had known her. Since she’s never lived long in one place compliments of her wanderlust mother,  she wonders what that would be like, to fit in and belong somewhere. More than the house and the diaries are making her feel that way. Zack is taking hold on her as well.

Zack Thomas does not do commitment. He doesn’t even know what it is when it comes to personal relationships.  He’s committed to his job and his coworkers/friends. That’s all he knows. His parents died in a fire when he was young and his brother raised him until he turned eighteen, and then he moved to L.A. Since then he’s been on his own with no family ties.  No commitments. He knows he wants a taste of Brooke, but will one taste be enough?

Zack suspects arson in several of the fires throughout the book. He thinks it’s a coverup and starts investigating on his own. The fire inspector, who Zach feels knows his job, keeps telling him to butt out. His boss also tells him the same — or his job is on the line. In every chapter I’m thinking it’s a different person, so I will let you wonder as I did. I was truly surprised at the ‘who done it’ in the end.

Ms. Shalvis has written a wonderful tale and I am glad I had the opportunity to read her work. This is my first of her books, but I can assure you I will look for the opportunity to read her work again.

Grade: A

See Sandy M’s review and Holly’s review.

Summary:

Zach Thomas risks his life battling flames every day. But since sexy EMT Brooke O’Brian joined the crew, he can’t resist playing with fire. Brooke is feisty, a little uptight…and sexy as hell. And as Zach soon discovers, she’s definitely hot stuff between the sheets. Still, every firefighter knows that the hotter the blaze, the faster the action’s over….

After the whirlwind ride Zach’s been taking her on, Brooke is ready to do anything for this man in and out of bed! But she knows footloose and fancy-free Zach doesn’t do commitment. So she plans to build up a five-alarm fire between them. The kind he won’t ever want to put out…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Limecello’s review of Instant Temptation by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance released by Brava 30 Mar 10

Jill Shalvis is now one of the authors whose new releases I keep an eye out for. I’m quite curious as to her next books. (Hopefully I’ll love them as much as I liked the Wilder brother’s books.) Instant Temptation is T.J.’s book, and I’d been waiting for it since the first book, Instant Attraction. This book has so many things I like about it. The story is based on a friends to lovers issue – a girl who is trying to move on with her life, a guy who is essentially running away from his… it’s good stuff.

Harley is not quite the heroine I was expecting. First of all, she’s a mechanic. In the previous books, she’s generally wearing dirty coveralls. Harley is also a student, but we’ve mostly met her in work mode, not science mode, and, well, this is stereotyping, I suppose, but with a name like Harley… she’s not entirely a tom boy, but doesn’t shy away from girly girl stuff either. (I distinctly remember nail polish, and girly magazines.)

I like that Harley is trying to do something with her life, and that she feels responsible for her family, but while it’s stressful for her, she doesn’t resent them. It shows great emotional depth and that she’s a very generous and loving person – and that she and her family are close. (Her family also doesn’t wish to be a burden, which helps.) Harley is a strong and likable character, and I’m glad that things end up nicely for her.

T.J. seems to be the most elusive, least friendly Wilder brother. Of course he’s also hot, and a really good guy – just not that approachable. He and Harley have always had chemistry or a spark, but they’ve always been dating other people. In fact, at the beginning of the book, Harley has a boyfriend. (Admittedly, I love that – it adds so many complex dynamics to a developing relationship, and really forces the hero to be introspective, and proactive.) I like that T.J. cares so much for Harley, and it’s entertaining how entirely blindsided he is by his emotions and what he now wants.

Friends to lovers stories are some of my favorite romance novel premises- and Harley and T.J. actually have a past as well. I really like how Ms. Shalvis deals with it – both when revealing what had happened – and why Harley is so curt with T.J., and how he reacts. Of course the chemistry is incredible between T.J. and Harley, and yet it’s a lot of fun too. This is a humorous, sexy, well written story. (I hate spoilers so I’m purposefully vague.)

I also enjoyed the cameo appearances by the other characters from the previous books – and feel that the series ended nicely. I like all three books in this trilogy, but I will say that Instant Gratification is my favorite – in fact it is one of my favorite books of 2009. Instant Temptation and Instant Attraction are close seconds. I’m sad to see it end, and I know I’ll be re-reading all of these books. I definitely recommend you read the Instant trilogy – and especially Stone’s book (Instant Gratification). I also know I’ll be reading Ms. Shalvis’s future books- and likely catching up on her back list when I get a moment.
Grade: A–

T.J. Wilder is the perfect package of breathtaking adventure and raw sex appeal. Even better, he’s about to reconnect with the one woman he’s never been able to forget…

Get Your Pulse Racing

To Harley, the landscape around Wishful, California, is exhilarating, untamed, and more than a little dangerous. The same could be said for T.J. Wilder, who’s invited himself along on her trek to study a rare coyote. Harley’s career is riding on this trip, and she doesn’t need a stubborn, incredibly sexy distraction. But T.J. is a professional guide who knows when to stay back and when to provide invaluable expertise–just like he’s done since they were in high school. And Harley, as usual, is torn between throttling him and giving in to the raw attraction that’s been smoldering all these years.

T.J. knows how proud and capable Harley is, but he’s damned sure not letting her put herself at risk when there are illegal hunters in the area. She needs him, with the same soul-stirring urgency that he’s always craved her. And here, in this beautiful place days from civilization, he’ll finally have a chance to prove it–over and over again. . .

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Slow Heat by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance released by Berkley 2 Feb 10

Jill Shalvis is an author that is definitely growing on me. I’ve liked her books, generally, but some were still hit or miss for me. Well, her recent ones, have been all hit. I really enjoyed Slow Heat. I powered through at the end, staying up til the wee hours to finish it. Aside from being a terrific romance, this book renewed my affection for baseball. It reminded me that before I loved football (and we all know I love football), I was a baseball girl. America’s game. Slow Heat put a giant smile on my face, and I’m hoping for more.

Sam McNade is a have it together heroine, that you root for all the way. She’s at the top of her field, and she knows it. However, this doesn’t make her arrogant or a bitch. Samantha isn’t a ball buster – she doesn’t need tricks or put downs to be the best. I liked that she had her own insecurities, and troubles. Sam is incredibly capable, but little things still trip her up, and she’s just trying to make her way like the rest of us. Sam would be a great friend – or you know, a great person to be.

Wade O’Riley is such a lovable hero. He seems emotionally unavailable, and in a way, he is – but Wade has a lot more depth than he’s willing to own to. Yes, he keeps himself removed, and it’s frustrating throughout the story… but the little things he does show a softer side. For example, Wade pays off every person in a carnival to not dunk Samantha while she’s sitting in the booth. He cares about her and his family, but isn’t willing to admit it. Wade grows a lot – and has to deal with his past. It’s nice that not everything is easy for him.

I loved that for all Wade seemed to be an immature idiot… he and Sam were adults throughout. Yes, they didn’t act perfectly, but then, who does? Nevertheless both make the best of their respective situations, and step up and take responsibility. Wade was a playboy, and I liked that it came to haunt him a bit. While it was pretty easy to take care of the problem, it did give Sam some pause, and make them both question the relationship. I have to say, I didn’t really go with the premise of “pretend” relationship – to me, it was real from the start.

I’m not for series. I’m totally over series, really… but I’m breaking my own rule, and wanting more of this one. I loved the quotes about baseball Jill found. I’d have read a book of just that. Not that I’d be willing to give up Sam and Wade’s story… but here? I’m asking for Gage’s story. Please let Gage have his own story. If not a series (which I’m totally cool with), let it be a stand alone. A man who can holds his own alongside professional athletes, with extremely interesting parents? He’s gorgeous and scary and would make a perfect hero. Ms. Shalvis – please write Gage his romance. He needs a lady love. I’m open for the position. And if anyone from Berkley reads this (hi!) please buy that story. I needs it!

Anyway, it’s clear that I was attached to the characters in Slow Heat. I “met” Wade and Sam in Double Play, and I knew they’d have a fantastic romance. I was right. All the secondary characters were a lot of fun too. I liked that Double Play and Slow Heat were connected, yet can stand alone. (For all you authors out there – pay attention. This is what books should be like.) I think I also want Gage’s story so much because there were no hints or hooks for a sequel. He just is- a fantastic character- so I’d like to read more about him. And revisiting Pace and Holly and Wade and Sam would just be gravy.

In conclusion, I really liked this book. I know I’ll be re-reading it soon. I love reading a story with a strong, yet normal heroine, and a hot guy who is a better guy than he thinks. I definitely recommend this book.

Grade: A-

After a woman claims she’s pregnant with Wade O’Riley’s love child, Major League Baseball’s most celebrated catcher and ladies’ man is slapped on the
wrist by management and ordered to improve his image. His enforcer is the team’s publicist, the tough and sexy Samantha McNead.

When Wade needs a date for a celebrity wedding, Sam steps up to the plate as his “girlfriend.” But given her secret crush on him and that one awkward
night a year ago in a stuck elevator with too much scotch, the whole thing is an exercise in sexual tension.

Wade is thrilled when the pretense turns into an unexpected night of hot passion. But the next day Sam is back to her cool self. As a catcher, Wade’s
used to giving the signals, not struggling to read them. Now, to win the love of his “pretend” girlfriend, he needs a homerun–even it involves
stealing a few bases…
Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Storm Watch by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance published by Harlequin Blaze on 1 Aug 2009

I generally enjoy Jill Shalvis’s writing, but I have to admit to being somewhat apprehensive about this one. I vaguely remember a mixed reaction from one of her previous Blaze books. Nevertheless, I was riding the good read high from Instant Gratification, and I’m glad I read Storm Watch. I felt that it was very fitting that I read this book while riding in a car, in the rain. Luckily, the conditions I experienced were vastly different  from what Lizzy and Jason encountered.

Lizzy Mann is a very likable, normal, yet quirky character. A very typical heroine for Ms. Shalvis (which is a good thing), there’s just something about Lizzy that draws you in. I also liked the fact that she’s capable on her own. It was nice to see a heroine who was generally well matched to the hero. Lizzy is an ER nurse who had to grow up too quickly. I loved that she was a geek in high school, but at the point where she meets up with the hero again, she’s found herself. She’s fine with, or without the hero. Aside from a few minor cringe worthy moments, Lizzy is a fantastic heroine. She’s someone I’d like to be friends with, and would also want around in case of emergency.

Jason Mauer is a great hero. He’s a very typical guy, but a good one. He’s got some emotional damage, and is at a cross roads in his life – which makes him the perfect candidate for a terrific romance. I liked that Jason is honest with himself, and he has a great personality. He’s patient with Lizzy, willing to risk life and limb for strangers, and has incredibly exacting standards for himself. You can’t help but respect and admire him. Subtle touches in Ms. Shalvis’s writing and characterization, such as the fact that Jason eats like an 8 year old, snarfing cheez whiz and crackers adds a depth and whimsy to his character.

I really enjoyed this story. It was lighthearted and a quick read, which is what I was looking for. I was a bit afraid the plot might get a little heavy, considering it’s about a natural disaster – major flooding in the town. However, I felt that Ms. Shalvis gave the situation the necessary gravity, but didn’t harp on it. I also enjoyed all the background Ms. Shalvis gave, especially Lizzy and Jason’s relationship (or lack thereof) from high school. It made the romance much more believable, considering the book takes place in such a short period of time. (One, maybe two days.) Based on their interaction from years ago, there’s a nice sense of homecoming throughout the story as well.

I really enjoyed the secondary characters, and the sub plot as well. It was nice that Lizzy was so well developed, and not a tragic figure. Although Lizzy had to make a lot of sacrifices for her sister Cece, the book effectuates a positive change for both of them. Lizzy and Jason are both able to make decisions about their future, and Cece is hurtled along her path of independence and responsibility. I really appreciated that Cece was an interestin and likable character. In fact, I wouldn’t mind reading more about Cece in a novella.

If you’re looking for a short enjoyable read, I definitely recommend Storm Watch. Ms. Shalvis does a great job with characterization, and setting. I felt that I really knew and understood Jason and Lizzy, and almost that I was experiencing the flooding myself. (Not just because I got rained on a lot.) If you’ve never read a category romance, I suggest giving this one a try. For fans of Ms. Shalvis, or Harlequin Blaze books, this one is a must.
Grade: B+

Subject: Jason Mauer, National Guard.

Current status: Homeward bound.

Mission: Getting some R & R!

Obstacle: Lizzy Mann. Sexy blast from the past.

After battling a hurricane of catastrophic proportions, Jason needs some downtime—badly! But there’s no rest for the heroic. During another deluge, Jason’s savior skills are suddenly in demand…by his hot friend Lizzy.

She’s fiercely independent. But that doesn’t keep them from having incredible sex as they, ah, ride out the storm!

Jason knows relationships and duty don’t mix. Still, he feels as if he’s being swept away by a flash flood of desire for Lizzy.

The permanent kind…

Read an excerpt here.

Lawson’s review of Double Play by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance released by Berkley Sensation 7 Jul 09

Summer is in full swing which means going to the beach or sitting poolside, or eve going to a baseball game. Here’s one great way to bring baseball to you, no matter where you are. Shalvis starts a new series about baseball players at the fictional Pacific Heat which fits the bill for sexy summer fun and lots of baseball. This is the first book by Shalvis that I’ve read, but I will say she’s got me hooked and I want to go find more to get a fix for this new habit of mine.

Holly Hutchins is a blog writer who has gotten national attention for her hard hitting articles that uncover secrets in unexpected places. After a stint in the space industry, she’s been assigned to write about the Pacific Heat, an expansion team based in Santa Barbara, Ca. She’s starting to feel dissatisfied with her traveling lifestyle and not being able to trust the people she meets since her job is to uncover the things that people are hiding.

Pace Martin is used to people trying to pry things out of him, but Holly is a bit different. Though he doesn’t want her readers and the rest of the world to know about a nagging shoulder injury, her ability to show her care about him while separating it from her work intrigues him. And he can’t stop his attraction to her, even if she isn’t his type. The realities of life in the public, Holly’s job and the life of a professional baseball player all play their part in getting in the way, but Holly and Pace have to choose what’s most important to them to get safely to home (to use a baseball metaphor).

Both Holly and Pace are great characters. They show depths of their personalities as the story progresses, but Shalvis makes sure the characters stay true to who they are when they first meet in the first chapter. Holly is driven, but lonely after a hard childhood never trusting her mother and not knowing if she’d have money for food and basic clothing. Making this into a career into investigative online journalism has continued her life into constant moving and not forming solid relationships.

Pace has been struggling with a shoulder injury that could potentially end his career. While he knows it could come eventually, he knows that right now is not the time. His integrity in turning down the temptations that could truly end his career shows he’s got more than just ambition to be the best, but a true love of the game. It also shows Pace the need to take stock of his circumstances and still do the things he’s been doing, which is just as rewarding as his baseball career.

The interactions and conversations of Holly and Pace also worked really well, and there’s several scenes in a shower that definitely steams things more than just the residual heat left over from hot water. The other thing is that though Holly is a journalist, she’s always honest about what she’s writing and why and never tries to hide or lie to pace or anyone associated with the team. Pace, though not wanting his injury public knowledge, doesn’t lie to Holly about anything he’s done, even when he’s caught in a scandal.

The other star of the story, baseball, is a welcome addition. I will admit that though I like baseball I don’t know much about it. What was given in this book seemed to be the real deal to me, from locker room conversations to how the players may act on their off time. The story even contains a secondary plotline about the issue of performance enhancers and the effect on baseball and the players which fit in well with not only the story, but putting baseball in the context of today’s views of the game. The romance did suffer a slight amount due to some of the baseball things, but everything worked well with the story and the characterizations.

The next book in the series follows the catcher of the team and the team PR exec, and as long as it’s as enjoyable as Double Play (which I know it will) I will follow this series to the end of the 9th inning.

Grade: A-

Summary:
.
Getting to first base is a cinch….
.
But getting home will take a grand slam…
.
Pace Martin is the ace pitcher for the Pacific Heat. He’s go the arm, the experience and the wins. He’s also got the pain, the pressure and the possible end of his career looming over him. The last thing he needs now is a distractions, even if it comes in the form of a tough, beautiful, tell-it-like-it-is writer who sees past his defenses.
.
Holly Hutchins knows a good story when she sees one, and the tall, dark and slightly attitude-challenged Pace Martin fits the bill. But when she realizes there’s more at stake than just a win, she starts to see the handsome, broad-shouldered jock in a different light.
.
Pace and Holly begin a seductive game, but in the face of unexpected betrayal and challenges, they’ll have to find the courage to swing for the fences. . .
.
Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Instant Gratification (Wilder Trilogy, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance released by Brava 30 Jun 09

Instant Gratification may very well be my favorite book I’ve read this year. I really enjoy Jill Shalvis’s writing style, and tone. It’s distinct, and comfortable. Instant Gratification is the second in Ms. Shalvis’s trilogy about the Wilder books. I enjoyed Instant Attraction, but loved Instant Gratification. (I cannot wait for Instant Temptation.)

I’ve actually never done this before, but I limited my reading of this book so I would have something to go to the next day. I’ve been suffering from reading ennui, and have had the necessity to sleep at a normal hour. And let me tell you – reading about Stone and Emma’s romance is a terrific way to end your day.

Emma Sinclair is a great heroine. She’s a doctor, one that works in an ER in Manhattan, actually, but she’s gone to take over her estranged father’s practice in Wishful, California. Emma is very smart, but a lot of fun too. I really enjoyed following her along her journey of self discovery. It was nice to see Emma develop emotionally as a person, and as she grew closer to Stone. There were a lot of layers to Emma, and every part fit perfectly, and added just what it was supposed to in this book.

Stone Wilder is my favorite type of hero. He’s strong, capable, generally happy with his lot in life, has good interpersonal relationships, and is in love with the heroine. I have to say, I love it when the hero pursues the heroine, and not vice versa. Stone is smart, but unassuming. His best qualities aren’t ones that are normally listed on paper – not something you’d put on a resume. This makes people discount him, but people that know him well like and respect Stone. He’s an all around good guy, who wants to make life as pleasant and easy as possible for everyone around him. I want one. (A Stone Wilder, that is.)

It took me a bit to come up with a review for this book. Reading it just made me so very happy. Words floated around my head like “Ms. Shalvis is a genius at writing.” Or “Ms. Shalvis is a master at her craft.” And, I think both fit. Instant Gratification made me laugh, want to cry, and most importantly, squee. There are so many cute and sweet moments. Even the setting is perfect. It’s clear that Ms. Shalvis knows the area, and has done her research. I could picture so many of the places in my mind perfectly, yet the descriptions never weighed the story down.

I really liked all the secondary characters and their stories, but it was nice that each and every one worked to build Emma and Stone’s relationship, not distract from it. Emma and Stone are so perfect for each other, and complement each other exactly. There’s a satisfying amount of sweet moments, humor, heat, and conflict. I liked that both Emma and Stone were able to grow and focus on themselves, while developing their romance.

The fact that TJ’s book (Instant Temptation) doesn’t come out until April 2010 makes me want to cry a little bit. I’m wondering why I haven’t read more of Jill Shalvis’s books. I definitely can’t wait for her new ones, and highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great romance. This book made me happy.

Grade: A+

Summary:
.
Wishful, California, is 3000 miles from Dr. Emma Sinclair’s last job in a New York City ER. It may as well be another galaxy. Here, running her father’s clinic for a summer, Emma treats bee stings, stomach flu, and the occasional pet cat. Plus, she has to contend with patients like Stone Wilder: gorgeous, laid-back, and irritating beyond belief. The man laughs at her. A lot. And Emma loathes him. All except that tiny part of her that wants to throw him on her examining table and break every doctor-patient rule in the book. When Stones tries to help Emma learn to loosen up a bit, he pictures white-water rafting or scenic mountain hikes. Not a mind-blowing affair that shakes them both to the core. Emma’s sure she has no place in a town like Wishful, but Stone knows different. Emma belongs here – in this town, in his life. It is convincing that this strong-minded, stubborn, sexy woman of that fact will be a challenge no Wilder man could resist.
.
Read an excerpt here.

This just in…

Harlequin Blaze authors are up to a whole lot of fun.

~ April 1 saw the start of the Harlequin Blaze Authors Blog where you’ll get nothing but Blaze all the time – author info and chat, new releases, excerpts, contests – you name it!

~ Alison Kent, Bonnie Edwards, Jade Lee, Jill Shalvis, Kimberly Raye, Leslie Kelly, Nancy Warren, and Tori Carrington are just a few of a long list of Blaze authors who will keep you up to date about their books and schedules and offer nothing but entertainment for everyone who drops by.

~ The first of every month, Senior Editor Brenda Chin will lead with a blog post and only fun ensues thereafter.

~ So be sure to check it out!

Consider yourself flashed.

As I was putting together a list of books I wanted to review (not the list PamP was asking for but hey a list *g*) I noticed a few odd things

Yes first is the fact, I do plan to start reviewing again.  Well that isn’t odd to me since I had hoped to start in January, if the Topamax would let me.  (If you wonder what I mean by that look up that side effects) To borrow a phrase from my neuro more on that later…

The thing that *I* found most shocking was there are so many books coming out on January 27 (yes that is today) that I thought were rather awesome books. Since it must be in celebration of my birthday (yeah it was the 22nd but really it is close), I thought I would use the 4pm review spot to make a list! Well and because I can *g*

The Sins of Lord Easterbrook by Madeline Hunter – I was going to put this review up today at 4pm, I know isn’t it like so cool how I just change the rules for myself (generally 4pm is older book reviews ) but tis a duckies choice to change her mind and I decided to showcase all the releases today.  And it should be NO shock that I adored this book.  For historical fans you really need to get your feathers on down to the bookstore and get this, or download it or whatev.  Easterbrook demands to be read.  Trust me on this.

ETS: if you didn’t already know this… Madeline has joind the ever delightful women over @ The Goddess Blog

(almost didn’t put this summary cuz is SO doesn’t fit IMHO)

Only a desperate mission could bring Leona Montgomery face-to-face with the scoundrel whose dangerous sensuality once sent her fleeing from his arms. But she has under-estimated Christian, Marquess of Easterbrook. As irresistible as ever, his past swathed in mystery, Christian has his own plans for the woman he has waited seven years to claim. Yet once desire reignites, bringing a dangerous secret into the open, Leona will find herself bound to the seductive nobleman in ways she could never have imagined. Seven years have changed nothing: this man can tempt her to ruin with just one touch. With Leona’s reputation and hopes for her family’s salvation in tatters, she must follow the only course left to her…even as each step brings her closer to a shattering truth and a passion she can no longer live without….

Montana Creeds: Logan by Linda Lael Miller – wasn’t sure if I should include this or not but it does show ‘in stock’ at amazon. It is the first in a back to back trilogy from HQN. I read all three books around the end of December beginning of Jan and adored them all (Dylan the next was my fave). LLM is an old fave of mine who is very hit or miss so it was a delight to read three books in a row that were really all hits. It is a contemp western trilogy with three very estranged brothers. It is a great mix of what I loved in LLM older novels and what still is wonderful in her recent work without slamming any doors. And she does some great men, Holly you really need to read these and tell me what you think .

Descendants of the legendary McKettrick family, the Creeds are renowned in Stillwater Springs, Montana—for raising hell…

After years of wandering, Logan Creed, a cowboy with a dusty law degree, has returned home. To put down roots, to restore his family’s neglected ranch…to have kids of his own proudly bearing the Creed name.

Divorced mom Briana Grant has heard the stories about her gorgeous neighbor. So Logan’s kindness with her young boys is a welcome surprise, especially when her ex reappears. And when an unknown enemy vandalizes her home, Logan shows Briana—and the folks of Big Sky country—just what he’s made of.

Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis – One of Jill’s best contemps yet and grand fun. You can step over to Book Binge and get some an awesome look at the book with some excerpts, reader questions answered by THE Jill and reviews already done by Holly and company.

Accountant Katie Kramer is a quintessential good girl – working hard, recycling diligently, all the while trying to ignore the feeling that she doesn’t fit in anywhere. That’s all she wants. Well, that – and amazing sex, and the kind of daredevil escapade she can look back on when she’s crunching numbers in a dusty cubicle. Which explains why she just took a job in Wishful, California, working for Wilder Adventures and Expeditions. Waking up to find a magnificently built stranger towering over her bed – that part defies explanation…After wandering the planet for months following a life-changing accident, Cameron Wilder has come back to the only home he knows. Under other circumstances, he might be thrilled to find a gorgeous woman sleeping in his cabin, but now, while he’ll risk his body taking clients on adrenaline-drenched excursions, his heart is off limits. Still, Katie’s killer smile triggers something deep in his gut…among other places. Showing her how exhilarating it can be to stop balancing her life as if it was a check book is the biggest rush he’s ever felt – and an adventure Katie’s wishing would never end…

Dark of Night by Suzanne Brockmann – OUT TODAY and I admit I have gone back and forth with reviewing this cuz you people scare me. I am a spoilerwhore. I have read like oh three of these books. I liked Dark of Night, ask holly *g* who I texted repeatedly while reading it cuz I KNEW she would lurve that heeeee. But I am guessing what happens is gonna get a whole hellalot of omg how could SUZ!?!?! And I was just too dumb to be upset cuz I wasn’t invested enough to be… ::shrug:: and uh was that a spoiler?

Badly shaken after the loss of one of their own, the men and women of Troubleshooters Inc. go up against their most deadly opponents yet —- the clandestine organization called The Agency. Blackmail, extortion, murder: The Agency’s black-ops sector will apparently stop at nothing to achieve their objective. But this time they’ve gone too far and hit too close to home.

Led by former Navy SEAL Lawrence Decker, a team of investigators —- from FBI agent Jules Cassidy and former CIA operative Dave Malkoff, to Troubleshooters Sophia Ghaffari, Tess Bailey, and even receptionist Tracy Shapiro —- band together to uncover the truth, and bring the killers to justice.

But the stakes are raised even higher when Decker barely escapes an attempt on his life. It soon becomes clear that the hunters have become the hunted —- and the Troubleshooters are no longer just solving a crime -— they’re fighting for survival.

also out today I am currently reading for review but can’t rec one way or the other cuz I am not far enough into so buy at your own risk:
Highland Warrior by Monica McCarty
Sandy’s first Duck Chat Author!

I have just started this so I can’t say much about it yet.  So no need to start worrying yet Monica .

Night After Night by Kathryn Smith – This is the last of Brotherhood of the Blood series and I am pretty sure I have read it but the time I got the ARC hits about the time I was in the hospital so before I review it I need to reread it. Yes better living through chemicals. (this would be why I spent most of Nov and Dec rereading older romance novels but that is a list for another time)

My Man Michael by Lori Foster

I know many here do not care for Lori Fosters books but I do so have a soft spot for her.  I have loved this series and really enjoyed the last book.  I am only a chapter or so into this so can’t at all say if this one will work for me or not.

I am sure there are more books coming out today.  Like the SEP (that I really should make sure got to the reviewer it was suppose to go to… see my memory not so good) So what are you looking forward to that hit the shelves today? What have you read that you want to shout about that came out today? What did you write that comes out today? Feel free to pimp… it you know you wanna

Sandy M’s review of Superb and Sexy (Sky High Air, Book 3)  by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance released by Brava 1 Jun 08

What a fun trilogy this turned out to be.  I enjoyed all three books immensely, and I’ve been looking forward to Brody and Maddie’s story after all their bantering and longing for each other throughout the previous two books. Ms. Shalvis did not let me down in this final installment of the series.  It’s light and fun with a hint of darkness, wonderful characters both old and new, an interesting storyline, and a romance worthy of the two main characters.

After six weeks of screw-ups at Sky High Air, Brody West has finally tracked Maddie Stone down to get her to come back to her job and save them all from the madness that’s taken over during her recuperation after being shot on the job, which we read about in the previous book.  He’ll beg if he has to, drag her back if he has to. Whatever it takes.  They need her.  What he doesn’t expect and stops him dead in his tracks is the fear and vulnerability he now sees in his Maddie.  He’s also seeing two of her.  She never mentioned she has a twin sister, and the more closed-mouthed she gets and tries to get rid of him, the higher his bullshit meter rises.

Maddie tries to keep Brody at bay when it comes to the life she never told him about.  She thought she’d left all the fear and manipulation behind, but she got only ten years of freedom before pulled back into that life again.  But she can’t turn her back this time.  Her twin sister is asking for her help to finally leave the tropical island where they grew up and where their uncle used them for his own purposes.  But Brody is having none of her excuses, her tricks to scare him off.  Giving in for now, she’ll find another way later to keep him safe.

Maddie learns, however, there’s more to Brodie than she thought and he sticks to her side, especially after a couple of her failed attempts to send him a wild goose chase to keep him far away from her and her familial danger.  Each of them eventually come the realization that it’s not just lust between them anymore, they’d give their life for the other and that sentiment comes close to happening when it comes to Maddie’s Uncle Rick and his criminal ways.  I loved how each of them looked at their growing albeit unrealized love for each other, Maddie wanting to keep Brody safe by making him stay away and Brodie doing the same by not leaving her alone to her own devices.  And things do go much more smoothly when they finally work together.

I’m sorry to see this series end.  But that just means I’ll be scouring around the house pulling out all of my other Jill Shalvis books.  I’ve become a huge fan of hers and look forward to reading anything by her I can get my hands on.

Grade: A

Read reviews and info about this and other books in this series by following its tag.

Summary:

When you want to fly the best, you fly Sky High Air. And when you want spectacular adventure and scorching seduction, Jill Shalvis’s tantalizing, talented pilots Noah, Shayne, and Brody will get you there-fast, slow, or any way you want it- Buckle Up. It’s Going To Be Quite A Ride. Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated.

And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High’s gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He’s tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it’s triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn’t even know he had- For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior-and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Y

eah, real smooth. She’s tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won’t let her walk away-especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that’s nothing compared to the way she’s about to get to know him-intimately, in depth, and over and over again

Read an excerpt. (scroll down)

Other books in this series:

I liked C2′s idea of a Best of 2008 list.  Then Liv got into the action, so thought I’d give it a try too.  (Of course, mine are the best of the bunch.)  I was never one to keep track of my reads, and 2008 was the first time I’ve done that; therefore, this list, though difficult to choose just a few in the long run, was easy for me since I didn’t have to rely on a twelve-month memory.

So here’s my Best of 2008, in no particular order.

Blue-Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas
Contemporary Romance Audiobook released by Brilliance Audio 25 Mar 08

Actually, I drooled over Hardy Cates while listening to him with the audiobook of Blue-Eyed Devil. My first foray (including Sugar Daddy) into Kleypas books and I loved every darned minute of it!

Weddings Can Be Murder by Christie Craig
Contemporary Romance released by Love Spell 27 May 08

I never thought I would fall in love with a hero who’s a sympathy puker.  Don’t wrinkle your nose!  Read the book, it’s hilarious! Christie Craig is making a huge name for herself and her wonderful humor.
Double Enchantment by Kathryne Kennedy
Historical Paranormal Romance released by Love Spell 26 Aug 08

A breath of fresh air with a new take on the English social castes.  Fun, intriguing, and very romantic. And loads of magic along with shapeshifting, both of which give readers a different look at old favorites.

Superb and Sexy by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance released by Brava 1 Jun 08

Really, you can interchange any one of the three Sexy books in here. Just love those Sky High Men! Ms. Shalvis has a way with humor, romance, mystery, and fun.

Killer Charms by Marianne Stillings
Contemporary Romance released by Avon 26 Aug 08

I enjoyed all three books about the Darling family, but it’s the hero of this one that gave it top honors for me in 2008. I’ll definitely be reading more of Ms. Stillings.

King of Sword and Sky (Tairen Soul, Book 3) by C.L. Wilson
Paranormal Fantasy Romance released by Leisure Books 30 Sep 08

With just one more book to go, this series is now my favorite of all time. Ms. Wilson has created a world that is just absolutely fantastic and she’s giving us a love story like no other.

Hostage to Pleasure by Nalini Singh
Release by Berkley 2 Sep 08

I’ve loved every book in this series.  They’re all incredible.  But Dorian has always been my favorite from the very first book and I’d anticipated his story for so long.  Ms. Singh did not disappoint!

Scandalous by Night by Barbara Pierce
Historical Romance released by St. Martin’s Paperbacks 29 Jul 08

Barbara Pierce has become an all-time favorite historical author for me.  This book she gave readers a darker side of her writing and Everod is her best hero yet.

With Every Breath by Lynn Kurland
Time Travel Romance released by Jove 27 May 08

Beautiful writing, sweeping Scottish vistas, love and romance that crosses time boundaries, and characters you’ll love forever. What’s not to love?

The Missing by Shiloh Walker
Contemporary Paranormal Romance released by Berkley Trade 4 Nov 08

As I said in my review of this book, Ms. Walker has outdone herself with this one.  Absolutely mesmerizing.  If you haven’t read it, you should.  You’re missing out, big time.

Honorable mentions:

Ask Adam by Jess Dee
Contemporary Romance released by Samhain 29 Jul 08

Ms. Dee is a first-time author for me and I enjoyed her writing and storytelling immensely.  I have a feeling she’s really going to go places!

The Hot Line by Cathryn Fox
Contemporary Romance released by NAL 4 Mar 08

Another first-time author for me. Had to love the idea of the Hot Line, firefighters just waiting to help a lady out. And those boys know what they’re doing!

Sandy M’s review of Her Sexiest Mistake by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Signet Eclipse 6 Dec 05

I picked up this book because I wasn’t in the right area of the house when I’d just finished my current read at the time. So I pulled open the closest drawer — I knew it would be full of books — and Ms. Shalvis’ name jumped out at me. She has become an all-time favorite author for me after reading just a few of her books. So I thought, when I cracked this one open, let’s see if she really does live up to that praise.

I am very glad to say she does. In spades. Her writing is just so much damn fun. Her characters jump off the page, her storylines are interesting, her love scenes are hot and sweet, or down and dirty, to go with the perfect scene.  She pulls emotions out of her characters, who then throw them straight at you and you’ll react every single time. Especially with a hero and heroine like Kevin and Mia.

Mia has come a long way in her life. She left behind her mother’s double wide and her need to have a man, any man, all the time. She’s successful in her job, outpacing all the men in that arena too. Everything changes when she has a one-night stand with her new neighbor. She just can’t keep it to one night. There’s something about the man she can’t name that keeps her coming back for more.

Then her attention-needing niece, Hope, shows up on her doorstep, uninvited of course. Mia never had a good relationship with her sister, who is just like their mother, so it doesn’t surprise her when Sugar foists her daughter on Mia for the time being. Even though Mia knows nothing about real relationships and family, she suddenly has love coming to her from very different directions and she has no idea what to do with it. Well, she has one idea that involves her neighbor — in the hallway, on the kitchen floor, wherever he happens to be when she shows up.

And that doesn’t work for Kevin. He wants cuddling and sweet nothings. But Mia will have zilch to do with that. She throws her clothes on as fast as she can the next morning and she’s history. Until she needs her itch scratched again. Kevin finally puts his foot down, either commit or end it. When Mia doesn’t respond, he’s the one who makes the call.

By this time both he and Mia have other issues going on in their lives. Kevin’s younger, deaf brother is constantly in trouble and needs constant bail-outs, always using the guilt card where Kevin is concerned. Mia’s job has always been the highlight of her life, but things begin to go very wrong in the office and she can’t figure out why that doesn’t bother her as much as she thinks it should. Hope is also another factor in their lives. Kevin’s a high school teacher and gets along with Hope quite well. Mia’s never been around kids, especially teenagers, so trying to figure Hope out is beyond her. All Hope wants is love.

I kept screaming at Mia to wake up, wake up! I understand her reticence at wanting to keep control of her life, having now what she never had as a child, but I just wanted her wake up a little sooner, only because she kept throwing a great guy away. But she’d go back to Kevin time and again, and she was the only one who couldn’t see the why of that.

Kevin had his own waking up to do when it came to bailing his brother out of jail, but his moment came earlier on. Pissed his brother off big time, but it was exactly what they both needed. Hope’s character is both hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time. She’s a super smart kid and some of her hijinks were absolute genius, even if it ticked off a multitude of people. I also enjoyed the side romance of Kevin’s brother and Mia’s best friend. It was a nice little bonus.

I have officially become a Jill Shalvis fangirl. I love everything about her writing. Every book of hers that I’ve read so far, which admittedly isn’t a huge amount because I read my first just last year, is definitely a keeper. You can’t ask for any more than what you get in a Jill Shalvis romance.

Grade: A+

Summary:

Her Choo’s were meant for walking…

Mia Appleby has it all. Just ask her. A fab career in marketing with a salary that keeps her in her favorite designers and a condo in the Los Angeles hills…everything she dreamed of as a little girl gazing out the window of her mom’s trailer at a sewer plant. That old life is completely gone now except for one remaining inherited vice — a weakness for men.

…Until one man made her stop in her tracks.

That is, until she has a one-night stand with handsome Kevin McNight. This new neighbor has burning eyes that match his melt-me body, but they still don’t stop Mia from ending it the next morning, a ploy that has worked with most men. But Kevin is not like the others and he won’t let Mia off that easy. Neither will her runaway Goth niece, Hope, who inconveniently shows up on her doorstep with hopes for a new life. Now Mia must keep her new fan club at a afe distance — before they burst her fairy tale facade.

Read an excerpt.

Limecello’s review of To All A Good Night by Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis, and HelenKay Dimon
Contemporary romance anthology published by Brava on 1 Oct 08

I love holiday anthologies. There’s something about them. (I mean, I don’t even like holiday things now – I get upset at seeing Christmas/holiday decorations in stores so early. So that should tell you how much I love Christmas anthologies.) I’m also drawn to the anthologies that Brava publishes. The two go hand in hand for me, and they’re extremely good, more often than not. I also knew I wanted to read this book based on the authors, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Unleashed by Donna Kauffman

Emma Lafferty and Trevor Hamilton are two great characters. Emma’s a lot of fun and it’s nice that she’s a smart heroine, with her head on straight. Trevor is great because he’s a “typical” hero, but not. Incredibly wealthy with a well known name, Trevor has a sense of humor that’s rather self deprecating. Add in some great pets, an adorable bird, mystery, references to college football and classical mythology, and I’m sold. Ms. Kauffman manages to write a very believable and full story in 108 pages, which is very impressive. I loved the interaction between Emma and Trevor, and also the insight into their inner thoughts. The chemistry was great, and Ms. Kauffman’s imagery and attention to detail was also quite enjoyable.

Unfortunately, there were two things that detracted from my reading experience. First, was that you never figure out the point of the book. Trevor is at the mansion for a reason, and when given the opportunity to find all his answers, he passes it up. I could understand that, until you get to the epilogue, which I wish hadn’t been added. It’s a blatent lure to read the next book – in fact, Trevor and Emma don’t even feature in it. They get a bland general paragraph in the three paragraph epilogue. I didn’t appreciate that, but I know it won’t bother many readers.

Grade: B+

Summary:

When Emma Lafferty is hired by a billionaire CEO to watch his pets over the holidays, she expects to enjoy a quiet Christmas in opulent surroundings. What she doesn’t expect is to spend the week trapped in the mansion with the CEO’s sexy great-nephew-and heir-whose motives are as shady as his desire is crystal clear….

Finding Mr. Right by Jill Shalvis

Ms. Shalvis imbued her novella with a lot of humor, and I thought it was great. Maggie Bell is brilliant but clumsy, and a very entertaining character. She gets into a lot of scrapes that border on slap stick, but are never cheesy. Jacob Wahler is the antithesis of Maggie’s dream guy, but he’s had his eye on her, and wins her. I thought the manner in which Maggie and Jacob got together was creative and sexy. Jacob and Maggie are dynamic characters, and it was nice that they had some history, which made their relationship more believable.  The plot was also engaging, with a lot of action and fun gadgets.

There were a few allusions to a love triangle, and I wish Ms. Shalvis had been able to explore that a little more. At the same time, it did seem a bit extraneous, and the explanation for it was a bit off. There was a plot twist that was a bit unexpected and over the top, but it brought things nicely to a close, and everything was incorporated nicely. A great novella.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Brilliant chemist Maggie Bell has a knack for choosing Mr. Wrong, and with yet another lonely Christmas looming, she decides it’s time to alter the equation-and seek out someone who seems totally wrong for her. Enter Jacob Wahler, the rough and rippling contractor who’s about as far from Maggie type as he could get. But suddenly what’s wrong for Maggie seems oh-so-right….

Read an excerpt here.

Can You Hand Me the Tape? by HelenKay Dimon

Ms. Dimon’s novella focuses a lot more on the character’s relationship and emotions, which was refreshing. While the plot may seem slow, the story never lags. Natalie Pritchard is between a rock and a hard place, and I thought it was curious how she had to go to her “enemy.” Spencer Donovan is quite an interesting character – one you’re not sure if you’re supposed to like or not. I felt in a way that he had more depth than Natalie, but that’s because more of his background is revealed. I also liked how Natalie was an “unconventional” character, in that she’s a larger, and a strong woman in a somewhat unusual career as a parole officer.

I thought it was wonderful how Ms. Dimon explored Natalie’s psyche, and had Natalie reveal her thoughts to Spencer, who was incredibly caring and understanding. Also, he was typically male in the way that he didn’t understand why Natalie had those issues. It was nice how the two complimented each other. Spencer and Natalie are a couple that works. They seem all wrong, but put together, you know are perfectly right.

There was also one line that I loved – I don’t normally do this, but here’s a quote:

I should have said fallen. Past tense. I know it’s only been a short time, but I’m about an inch away from being stupid in love with you.

I thought that was incredibly sweet, and the great dialogue in this novella really brings it to life.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Natalie Pritchard is desperate. It’s a week before Christmas and she’s lost the naughty tape she made for her now-ex-boyfriend. She’s so desperate, in fact, that she’ll turn to her nemesis Spencer Donovan for help. The sexy criminal defense attorney would be only too happy to assist-but can Emma afford his price?

Read an excerpt here.

This book has a lot of great writing, and I found the differences between the author’s styles very interesting. Ms. Kauffman, Ms. Shalvis, and Ms. Dimon all brought something different to the table, but all three novellas work well together. Ms. Kauffman’s writing is very personable, with a little something for everyone. Ms. Shalvis’s novella has a lot of humor that will have you laughing as you read. And Ms. Dimon’s writing gets you emotionally, ensuring you’re invested in the characters.

This is an anthology that flows from novella to novella. It was nice to read a few Christmas stories, but they’re perfect for any time of the year. I’m so glad that I read To All A Good Night – I hope that you read it and like it too. I definitely recommend this book to all lovers of anthologies and contemporary romance.

Overall Grade: A-

This Christmas, sugarplums aren’t the only visions that will be dancing in your head. Prepare to have your toes curled by some of the holiday’s hunkiest heroes in this hot, hot, hot collection…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade: B+

Summary:

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

Read an excerpt here

Read Holly’s review of Flashpoint here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade: A

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

Summary:

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

Read an excerpt here

One lucky reader has won a copy of Jill Shalvis’ latest Blaze, Flashback. Click on the cut to find out who…

Eli!

Congratulations Eli! Send your mailing address to redwyne at gmail dot com. Please put “Flashback winner” in the subject line.

Read a Flashback excerpt here.

Read more about Jill Shalvis’ books at her website, and her funny musings at her blog.

Firefighter Aidan Donnelly has always battled the flames with trademark icy calm. That is, until a blazing old flame returns—in the shape of sizzling soap star Mackenzie Stafford! Aidan wants to pour water over the unquenchable heat between them. But that just creates more steam….

Kenzie is not the delicate, fragile female she looks like. She has one clear objective, and nothing will stand in the way of her goal—well, nothing but the red-hot touch of a certain dangerously sexy fireman, that is!

Firefighters and reunited lovers…Sounds good to me! Jill Shalvis’ Flashback was released this month. Read on for an excerpt and a chance to win (yes, WIN) a copy. And don’t forget to visit Jill’s blog. It’s very funny.

Firefighter Aidan Donnelly has always battled the flames with trademark icy calm. That is, until a blazing old flame returns—in the shape of sizzling soap star Mackenzie Stafford! Aidan wants to pour water over the unquenchable heat between them. But that just creates more steam….

Kenzie is not the delicate, fragile female she looks like. She has one clear objective, and nothing will stand in the way of her goal—well, nothing but the red-hot touch of a certain dangerously sexy fireman, that is!

**EXCERPT**
Kenzie hit the icy water, and as she took in a huge mouthful of water, she realized she’d forgotten to hold her breath, a thought that was completely eradicated when the Blake’s Girl exploded into the early dawn.

In the brilliant kaleidoscope of sound and sights, she barely registered the splash next to her, or the two strong arms that came around her, supporting her above the water as pieces of flying, burning, spitting debris hit all around them.

Aidan. My God, Aidan . . . That it was him boggled her mind. She needed to remind him she could swim on her own but the shock of the cold water sapped both her voice and the air in her lungs, and also hampered the working mechanics of her brain.

She’d never experienced anything like it. Never in her life had she been so hot and so frozen at the same time. The heat came from the flames, so high above them now that she was in the water, but no less terrifying. And yet from the neck down, an icy cold had taken over her limbs, making movement all but impossible, weighing her down, sitting on her chest, squeezing, sucking the last of the precious air from her overtaxed lungs.

Someone was screaming, and she envied the ability to draw air into her lungs because Kenzie’s own felt constricted as if she had a boa slowly squeezing the life out of her.

The scream came again.

Huh.

It sounded sort of like herself, and then she realized as if from a great distance that it was herself screaming, which meant that somehow she was breathing. Okay, that was good, very good. So was the man holding her in the water, tucking her head against him, shielding her from the pieces falling out of the sky at his own risk.

“Shh,” he was murmuring. “I’ve got you. It’s okay, Kenzie, it’s going to be okay . . .”

He did have her. Which was a good thing. Without him, she’d have gone down like a heavy stone and knew it. She was hurt, but not that hurt to stop the memories bombarding her at the sound of his voice. How could she not have instantly recognized him?

He was the first man who’d ever broken her heart.

Now, contest time! Leave a comment, any comment to win your own copy of Flashback. About cute firemen, Jill Shalvis, Blaze titles, or the high price of gas. Whatever, I’m feelin’ easy. I’ll pick a winner on Tuesday, August 26.

Sandy M’s review of Flashpoint (American Heroes: The Firefighters, Book1) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Harlequin Blaze 1 Jul 08

Going up in flames.  Burning up.  Light your fire.  Sizzling.  Hot, hot, hot.   Jill Shalvis makes you feel every one of these and then some with her American Heroes series, The Firefighters.  Of course, a lot of great adjectives can also be used to described these books.  Sexy, sensual, lusty, handsome.  You get the idea.

The hero and heroine in this book are two lonely souls who have different ways of dealing with their loneliness.  Brooke still moves around from town to town, job to job, continuing what her mother started after Brooke’s father passed away  She couldn’t seem to settle anywhere once she was on her own, so she carted young Brooke all over kingdom come while dealing with her dissatisfaction in life.  Once Brooks breaks away from her mother to live on her own, she follows the same path, can’t stick around long enough to make new friends no matter where she is, keeps everyone at a distance, and definitely keeps love at bay.

But when she takes a temporary EMT position in Santa Rey, a small, quaint beach town in California, her outlook begins to change.  She starts to feel she’s part of something with those she interacts with at the firehouse. Especially Zach Thomas.  She feels a zing, a spark with every little touch and she can’t keep her eyes off the man whenever she’s near him.  Her excuse for holding him off, though, is she’s only in town for six weeks, long enough to sell her grandmother’s house for a nice nest egg to get her to next destination. But that doesn’t keep the feelings and emotions from growing, making her want more than she’s ever wanted before.

Since he lost his parents in a fire years ago, Zach hasn’t allowed himself to love, really love, anyone.  His brother took off when Zach turned 18, done with his responsibility of raising Zach.  So why get all mushy and emotional when people only leave you?  His closest friends are his brothers at the station and that’s all he needs.  Until he meets Brooke.  But he still fights the feelings he has for her.  Even after making love to the woman, he can’t make himself give her more.

On top of all of this, Zach’s job is on the line because he can’t let go of several fires that have occurred lately, fires he knows are arson, and the investigator in charge refuses to listen to reason.  That leads Zach to doing some investigating on his own, which makes the powers that be very unhappy with him.  The only person to believe him and believe in him is Brooke, the one he wants but the one he can’t have.

I really enjoyed these two.  Zach teases Brooke about being uptight, that she needs to let loose.  She eventually takes him at his word and, boy, when she decides to let loose, she goes all out.  The ensuing love scene between them is hot and sizzling and all those words I threw at you earlier.

I also liked the secondary characters at the fire station.  The camaraderie among the firefighters and medical person is fun and teasing, but they all take their jobs seriously and back each other up, both professionally and as friends. Zach’s relationship with the elderly Phyllis is quite special, showing us a softer, sensitive side of the man.  The developing mystery that leads to Zach’s hunt for the arsonist is done well and adds a nice flavor to the story.  And although we find out the answer to that mystery, we’re left with a whole new one at the end of the book so you’re sure to pick up the next one in the series!

Grade: A

Summary:

Zach Thomas risks his life battling flames every day. But since sexy EMT Brooke O’Brian joined the crew, he can’t resist playing with fire. Brooke is feisty, a little uptight…and sexy as hell. And as Zach soon discovers, she’s definitely hot stuff between the sheets. Still, every firefighter knows that the hotter the blaze, the faster the action’s over….

After the whirlwind ride Zach’s been taking her on, Brooke is ready to do anything for this man-in and out of bed! But she knows footloose and fancy-free Zach doesn’t do commitment. So she plans to build up a five-alarm fire between them. The kind he won’t ever want to put out…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Ever have one of those days when nothing, not a damned thing, goes right and then to top it all off, something really stupid, irritating, outrageous and any other word you want to toss in there happens??  That happened to me just a few days ago. I was even relaxing at the time, trying to slough everything off and enjoy a good book while having dinner. And even though I pretty much laughed off the pinnacle of the bad day at the time, later I was just plain old ticked off. 

What could have happened you ask? Every time I turned around, it was something. First I had to wrap up a few books I was going to mail out to some friends. I love to share my pastime when I can.  But do you think I could find all of them on the first go-round of looking for them on the shelves, in the boxes, in the cupboards, or stacked on the desks and wherever else I have to stash them in this small townhouse? No. Of course not.  Why should something so darned easy be easy?  I go through every box before I find a couple of them, then through three cupboards to find a few more, a stack on the desk falls over when I go through those books.  I trip over the stupid flap of a box I left out the night before.  At least I didn’t fall on my ass, but it ticks me off even further just because.  After a lot of cursing and muttering and yelling, I eventually found all the books, got them wrapped up and put in my nifty little American flag tote, and was finally ready to head out to do errands.  Now, in Central California in the middle of August, it gets hot.  Very hot.  Sunshine galore.  115 degrees in the shade hot. This doesn’t bode well for running around doing errands.  You end up drenched and tired as all get-out when you’re done, so you probably should have stayed home anyway.

Do ya think that even crossed my mind this particular day?   You guessed it.  And because I’m one who doesn’t want to make two or three trips to the car in my detached garage here in the complex, I load myself and my handy-dandy rolling thingamajig up and lug everything I’m going to need in one all-inclusive trip.  It’s only 10 a.m.  I’m already dripping just halfway to the garage.  But I get the car loaded and am ready to take off.  Then I remembered.  I forgot something.  In the house.  So I trudge all the way the back, continuing to mutter that string of swearing I had started earlier.  And adding a few extras for good measure.  At last I’m in the car and I crank the air conditioning to high.  Oh, that felt so goooooood!  So good that I decide to start with my errand that’s furthest away, giving myself time to cool off and then later in the day when I’m finished with everything, I won’t be too far from my nice air conditioned home.  A darned good plan if I do say so myself.  My optimism, which I haven’t seen much of so far, is finally rising.  You know the old saying I spoke too soon?

I actually thought things were going well after I got on the road and got the first few errands under my belt.  Of course, if I was one to make a list of things I need to do I probably wouldn’t forget one or two.  And drive right past where I need to be.  So I cussed a little more after realizing I missed a stop.  I heaved a big old sigh and decided to heck with it, I’ll just do it next week.  By this time I expected my car to start smoking or just come to a chugging halt all together.  It was one of those types of days.  I hadn’t yet had lunch, so I was hungry on top of the irritation, which didn’t help one iota.  One more final decision.  Get the last couple of errands completed and then stop at my favorite Mexican place for my plate of taquitos to enjoy while I get back into Jill Shalvis’ book, Flashpoint, the new Harlequin Blaze I got when I met her at the RWA conference in San Francisco.   I’d started it the night before, was really enjoying it, so figured this would be a nice way to end a really shitty day.  Or so I thought.

I ordered my taquitos, my diet Pepsi, had my bowl of chips and salsa at the table, which I was thoroughly enjoying.  Had my Shalvis propped open with my weighted bookmark (an absolute wonderful invention for readers!) and got lost in the story until my food came to the table.  A good book, good food in an air conditioned place away from home for a couple of hours.  Finally the day was coming to an enjoyable end.  Then I picked up my diet Pepsi.  You know what happened, dontcha?  I grabbed in the wrong spot, the lid wasn’t on it tight, whatever the reason, the entire soda went all over everything.  Including me.  Including my autographed copy of Flashpoint.  Of course, that was the first thing I saved!  Forget my purse.  Forget the food.  I had to save my book.  But it was too late.  I could see the pages already warping, even though it was still wet.  I knew what it would look like later when it was dry.  So I took the towel the gal at the restaruant offered me, dried the cover of the book, dried the inside and outside of my purse, took everything to another table and waited for the new plate of food she kindly offered.  Then I started to laugh.  What else could I do?  I opened my wet book, continued to read about a handsome hero and his beautiful heroine, eventually enjoyed my taquitos, and that was the end of my lousy day from hell.  Thank god.

I’ve since finished Flashpoint.  Enjoyed it a lot.  Reviewed it and you’ll see it here tomorrow.  My now crinkled copy of the book sits here next to me and sometimes I smile, sometimes I don’t.  But it defintely reminds me how wrong things can go, whether you’re ready for it or not.  What about you and that day you thought would never end?  Do you have any reminders that will suddenly bring it back and make you glad it’s all over with and you hope to never see another day like it any time soon?  Or do you laugh instead?  Sometimes when I do happen to glance at my once-wet book, I get that irritated feeling at having lost it that way and I’m still pissed off!

Well, it’s taken me a week to recuperate and get back into the swing of things since I got home from San Francisco.  Was it all worth it?  Damn straight!

I was supposed to be at the RWA National Conference as a writer.  I started writing only a year or so ago, so I was really looking forward to learning more about the craft.  But who was I trying to kid?  I was 99.9% reader in San Francisco.   I couldn’t help myself.  Everywhere I looked were authors I’d been reading for years, authors who I just discovered, and even newer authors who I hadn’t yet discovered while at the conference.   And the books!  You’ve all seen my TBR mountain.  You all know how bad my addiction is.  There was no way in hell anyone could have kept me away from the books in the city by the bay, no matter how they tried.  So while I did learn a little, I had a dream of a week just schmoozing and staring in awe the majority of the week.

I had some wonderful highlights during the hustle and bustle of the conference.  The first was meeting two of my all-time favorite authors, who have also become friends.  First is Sandy Blair.  I started reading her books because of the time travel elements that appear every so often in her Scottish historicals.  But I joined her fan club because she’s one of the nicest, sweetest ladies I’ve ever met.  So it was a thrill, indeed, to meet her in person.  We had lunch together a couple of times, had drinks together, just chatted, laughed our tails off — she’s a great storyteller even outside of her books — and I enjoyed my time with her immensely.  I will remember each and every one of those moments forever.

Added to all that, I found some friends to get re-acquainted with while schmoozing with Sandy B.  It was great to meet author Tracy Garrett since getting to know her when I interviewed her online last year, and soon-to-be-published-I-just-know-it Suzy Welsh from the Romance Bandits is a hoot and a half and it was nice to chat with her outside Sandy B’s group.  I also met author Jo Davis, who just had her debut book, Trial by Fire, released last week.  You know, I started talkin’ with a southern accent after spending time with all those Texas ladies!

My next highlight came when I met author C.L. Wilson.  We’ve been chatting online for the last year or so after the release of her first two books, Lord of the Fading Lands and Lady of Light and Shadows.  Her series of Fae and magic and flying jaguars has captured not only my imagination, but the world’s.  It was so enjoyable meeting this lady who has such a lyrical voice when writing, an imagination that takes you away into fantasy so that you never want to leave.  Cheryl is a delight.  She’s so friendly, open and honest, and getting to know her was a pleasure.  She also joined Sandy B. and me for lunch on our first day in San Francisco. Let me tell you, I haven’t laughed so darned much and so darned hard in a very long time.   Author Susan Edwards also joined us at lunch, along with several other friends, and a good time was had by all and another wonderful memory was made.

If you haven’t read Cheryl’s books yet, you should.  There’s very few authors out there who can string ordinary words together and make them sing like Cheryl.  The next two books in the series, King of Sword and Sky and Queen of Song and Souls,  are being released this October and February 2009, respectively.  Start now and I guarantee you will be mesmerized and anxiously awaiting those new release dates.

Then there’s the Goody Room that’s a highlight at every conference.  My heavens, what an oasis and/or cacophony, depending on how you look at it and when you were there, of activity and goodies that was.  And everything there was free!  Books, buttons, bookmarks, candy, ink pens, CDs enticing you with book excerpts, business cards and flyers advertising anything and everything, and so much more filled table after table throughout the room.  You had to be quick in that room too.  No thinking you can come back later and pick up whatever you were looking at.  No guarantees whatsoever.  You had to make quick decisions and stick with them!

The Literacy Signing on Wednesday night was almost ovewhelming.  500 authors just waiting for you to walk up, chat for a minute, and buy a book.  What reader wouldn’t be in heaven while in that room?  I met more authors there who I’d corresponded with online or had gotten a thank you for reviewing their book:  Melissa Mayhue, Nancy Haddock, Lorraine Heath, Jill Shalvis, Lisa Kleypas, Kresley Cole, Kathryn Smith, Lynda Sandoval, just to name a few.  Then there were the authors that I’d read and loved for so long and newer authors who have given me hours of reading pleasure: Shana Galen, Jennifer Ashley, Shana Abe, Susan Crandall, Marianne Stillings, Christina Dodd, Julia Quinn, Gena Showalter, Elizabeth Hoyt, Bonnie Edwards and the list goes on and on.  And so many more than I’ll ever be able to remember!  It was a spectacular night and all topped off quite nicely when we learned the next day approximately $60,000 had been raised for literacy.  Good show!

There were other book signings the last days of the conference, and I had been warned to take large totes, rolling and handheld, and to be prepared to ship box after box of books home.  Pffft.  We were able to drive to San Francisco, who needs to ship the books back home?  I did.  Four of them.  Four big, big boxes of books.  I’m glad I took all the advice given to me. I definitely went prepared and I’m sure I was a sight lugging all those books across that big old hotel for two days!

My last huge highlight was meeting author Melissa Mayhue for dinner at Bubba Gump’s on Pier 39 our last free night of the week.  What a lovely lady!  Not only is she a wonderfully talented author, Melissa is one of the sincerest, kindest people I’ve ever met.  And there’s something about authors and humor.  Twelve women together with writing in common and we laughed and laughed.  And laughed.  For several hours.  I made a few more new friends that night and hope to keep in touch in the future.

In fact, I made new friends throughout the entire week, even some from my area.  It was a great time to share experiences and knowledge and I’m so glad I was part of it.  It was a time in my life that will never be forgotten, even when I attend another conference in the future.  The first time is special and the people I met will always have just as special a place in my heart.

Oh, the writer in me?  Yes, I did go to workshops and I did learn some.  So maybe the next time I’ll have more percentage points on the writing part of it all.  I have a feeling, though, the reader in me will emerge once again because she just has to be part of the fun.

Sandy M’s review of Strong and Sexy (Sky High Air, Book 2) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Brava 1 Jan 08

I am having a great love affair with these Sky High Air men. They’re handsome and know how to have fun. They’re, of course, sexy. That goes without saying. But when they’re going down for the count and falling in love, and they haven’t realized it, they love and protect their lady with a greedy fierceness; and when they finally realize they are in love, well, you’re a goner by that time.

I realize I’m a little behind the times in reading this book since the third in the series is already on the shelves. But because I was so intrigued with Noah and his partners in Smart and Sexy — especially Brody ‘cuz I have a feeling he’s going to fall the hardest — I kept my anal self under control to read these in order. It’s not totally necessary to do so, but I like getting huge doses of these guys in each book. And, as I mentioned before, it’s fun watching them fall all in a row.

Shayne is the playboy of the trio. He’s laid back, always in control, and has done things his own way to get where he is. No help from the rich family. So you’d expect he’d end up with one of those model types he usually dates. But when he gets a glimpse of a clumsy but sexy woman making her way, er, clumsily, through their huge, all-out thank-you-for-the-business party for a rich client, he’s intrigued and just can’t help himself when he finds himself talking to her. Then kissing her. In a closet. He’s puzzled at why he finds her captivating, but he decides to go for it and when he finds out who she is, he’s not sure he’s made the right decision.

Dani, it’s rumored, is crazy. Literally. Even her family thinks so. But she knows different. Just because she walked away from millions and wants to work with animals at the zoo doesn’t mean all her elevators don’t go to the top. But when she tries to please to her mother by showing up at her party hosted by Sky High Air, things just go from bad to worse the minute she steps through door, even though she told herself she can do it and do it with aplomb. The best was kissing Shayne Mahoney under the mistletoe in the closet. The worst? The dead body outside in the rain. That disappeared. Now even Shayne looks at her like she truly is crazy. But he takes a chance on her, makes it his job to protect her, and she knows her heart will eventually get broken when he’s had enough of her.

Shayne, however, doesn’t get tired of Dani and that’s one of the best things about this book. His belief in her strengthens her, makes her more confident. Their love is also strong once they stop denying it. It’s fun, though, to watch Noah and Brody tease him about it. The ensuing mystery after the Dani’s discovery of the body takes on a life of its own and even though I thought I had the culprit pegged, I was wrong each time.

We get more of Brody and Maddie and I’m really looking forward to Superb and Sexy. Brody is the biggest teaser when it comes to women and love, so his turn is coming. Actually, it already started in this book when Maddie ups the ante a little.

I’ll hate to see this series end, but it’s been one heck of a flight.

Grade: A

See all the related posts and reviews by clicking on the Sky High Air series tag.

Summary:

BLOWING IT ALL SKY HIGH

In a family of serious over-achievers, Shayne Mahoney has always been the laid-back, easy-going rebel. But running Sky High Air – a charter airline catering to the rich and famous – is a dream come true, in-flight specials included. Like kissing his client’s beautiful, brainy daughter in a coat closet. But before Shayne can say – Fasten Your Seatbelts, Dani claims to witness a murder, gets stalked in her own apartment, and as added bonus, gets them both shot at by a mystery sniper. Normally Shayne would be running from the obviously crazy woman, and yet he finds himself trying to help her, leaving him to doubt his own sanity…

There’s a reason Dani never attends her mother’s high society parties. The fake people, the shallow conversation – and the fact that she doesn’t fit in. She’s a zoologist, not a starlet, and happy about it, even if she wishes men like ruggedly handsome Shayne Mahoney would spare her a second glance. Of course, dodging bullets isn’t exactly what she’d call the perfect follow-up to their heated kiss, but Shayne makes it clear she can depend on him. All she has to do is hold on tight to his delicious hard body until the ride is over…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Liviania’s review of Superb and Sexy (Sky High Air, Book 3) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance released by Brava 1 Jun 08

Maddie Stone escaped her past. She cut her ties and made a good life for herself as a concierge for Sky High Air. I haven’t read the rest of the Sky High Air series, but Shalvis introduces everything clearly so that there is no need for familiarity with the two preceding novels. While I liked both Maddie and Brody, Noah and Shayne did not make enough of an impression to cause me to immediately go back and read their stories.

In fact, Maddie not only worked for Sky High, she made herself indispensable to the company. That’s why Brody West tracks her down when she disappears. Well, that and his raging attraction to her. The two shared a kiss after she was shot on the job, and Brody can’t forget it. Now that he’s shown up, he finds not only Maddie but her twin sister Leena. Maddie needs to deal with her past quickly because both she and her sister are in danger. And her sister has her own ideas about how to protect them that don’t mesh well with Maddie’s.

While technically a contemporary romance, Superb and Sexy contains many elements of a romantic suspense novel. It’s just enough to add some action to the story but not enough for the action to overwhelm the central couple. There’s also a secondary couple, featuring Leena and a man named Ben. They’re quite cute together, but all of their backstory occurs offscreen. It’s necessary to keep the book moving, but I would have enjoyed more time with them. I’ve never minded secondary romances, and their comfortable relationship makes a nice contrast to Maddie and Brody’s bickering of love.

Of course, I was doomed to like Maddie and Brody since they do participate in the bickering of love so much. I’m almost always sold on characters who argue, unless it gets too ridiculous. I like this little exchange:

“Are you kidding?” he asked with a low laugh. “When you’re at work, you butt into my life every damn day of the week.”
“Oh, you mean when you’re in your office, all pouting and edgy and barking at the rest of us?”
“Excuse me. Pouting?”
“That’s right. Pouting like a woman over your deep, dark secrets.”

Superb and Sexy manages a nice balance between the darker plot and the sweet romance. There are some truly creepy moments, but Shalvis maintains a light approach on what could be a downer novel. Perhaps my favorite scene is when both couples are finally in one room together. They’re in danger, but it’s very funny. (And without being absurd, for those who are wary of that kind of humor. I enjoy it, but know it isn’t universally liked.)

Of course, the lightness made it easy to read, but it also caused the story to make little impression on me. It was fun reading for an afternoon, but there was nothing to it to make me want to pick up Jill Shalvis’s backlist. I enjoyed the story without being engrossed by it and none of the characters aside from the leads left much of an impression. Superb and Sexy is a well-done romance with some action, but it’s just not much different from many other stories I’ve read.

Grade: B

BUCKLE UP. IT’S GOING TO BE QUITE A RIDE.

Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated. And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High’s gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He’s tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it’s triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn’t even know he had.

For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Yeah, real smooth. She’s tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won’t let her walk away-especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that’s nothing compared to the way she’s about to get to know him-intimately, in depth, and over and over again.

Read an excerpt here.

Limecello’s review of Superb and Sexy (Sky High Air, Book 3) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance published by Brava on 1 Jun 08
I have a confession to make. I’ve wanted to read Maddie and Brody’s story since I read Smart and Sexy in April, 2007. I actually found myself eagerly flipping through pages for more of Maddie and Brody’s witty repartee while reading Noah and Baileys story (which was enjoyable). So, I have good news for all of us – Maddie and Brody’s story is now out for all of us to savor. And I did.

Maddie and Brody are both extremely strong characters. Starting off with Maddie, I love how she’s sassy, smart, has a take no prisoners attitude, but still human. She has a depth and complexity that is fun to read, and her story was definitely not something I was expecting. I thought it was interesting how Ms. Shalvis introduced us to Leena, and incorporated Maddie’s identical twin as a way to add depth and vulnerability to Maddie. She’s a great heroine- enjoyable to read, and someone who would be fun to be friends with.

Brody is a perfect hero. He’s successful, has made something from nothing, owns his own elite company, and is intelligent. Brody-although having a heart of gold – doesn’t really show that soft spot to many people, making it that much sweeter. I admire how Brody sticks with Maddie, and is determined to help her, even though she does her best to evade him and solve problems on her own. Brody’s such a guy, which makes reading him fun. But there’s also something special about him, which prevents Brody from being mundane.

The chemistry and relationship between Maddie and Brody is intense. Not only that, but the action and the plot make you eager to turn each page. What makes this even better, is that the plot and romance don’t detract from each other – and it doesn’t feel like there’s a trade off between the two. Ms. Shalvis has managed to write in a way that not only are both believable, they interact and each works to further the other.

While there were some moments where the characters acted in a manner which made me want to smack them upside the head, it was still enjoyable. There of course was a lot of drama, and some borderline slapstick situations where characters just missed each other, creating a whole new set of problems… that got to be a bit much. Nevertheless, over all, I liked it. The characters had a lot to do with it – Maddie and Brody are terrific, and the cameo appearances of the others were nice.

I think the conclusion to the Sky High series was a great book – definitely my favorite of the three. The story was well written, and the romance was very believable. The plot kept my attention, and I’m wondering why I haven’t read more of Ms. Shalvis’ books. That’s definitely something I plan on changing.

Grade: A-

BUCKLE UP. IT’S GOING TO BE QUITE A RIDE.

Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated. And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High’s gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He’s tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it’s triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn’t even know he had.

For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Yeah, real smooth. She’s tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won’t let her walk away-especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that’s nothing compared to the way she’s about to get to know him-intimately, in depth, and over and over again.

Read an excerpt here.

I know… five years later… sorry bout that

A Superb winner of free copy of any book from Jill Shalvis backlist (your choice)

Jennybrat

Please email me at redwyne @ gmail dot com with your address and backlist pick.

Thanks for playing!

So has anyone read Superb and Sexy yet? What you think? We need to get our review up! Ack… so behind…

Ever had an office romance? I really even hate to clarify what Brody and Maddie (in my just released SUPERB AND SEXY) have as an office romance. None of their story takes place in an office, but instead they’re on the run for most of the book. But technically, I suppose, he is her boss and she is his subordinate. (Read excerpts of Superb and Sexy here and here.)

Not that she is very subordinate. Nope, Maddie is one tough cookie…

Where was I? Right. Office romances. When I was twenty-two, I was working in Los Angeles, in the city offices actually, doing accounting. My little cubicle happened to be on the same floor that the Fire/Paramedic dispatch worked out of, which meant that on any given day I could look out my little window and gaze upon all the very sexy paramedics, EMTs and firefighters. There was one in particular that my gaze always gravitated to, but even at twenty-two I had enough wits about me to know a player when I saw one. Besides, me and the other girls had vows. Look don’t touch.And so we looked.

Plenty.

Then that cute paramedic got injured on the job, a broken wrist, and he was put in the offices to help out the accounting department while going through physical therapy. He was to file. For me.

Dreamy sigh . . .

He asked me out that first day. I laughed and said no thank you (while inwardly DYING to say yes but hey, a vow is a vow). He asked me out every day for four months before I caved.

We’ve been married a good long time now, and that story still cracks me up. Good thing he was persistent! So here’s what this curious author wants to know. Ever had an office romance? I’ll draw names randomly for a free copy of any book from my backlist, your choice. Now tell me your stories!

Jill Shalvis

Here’s a couple of reviews: Sandy M’s review of Smart and Sexy and Sybil’s review of Strong and Sexy. Plus an excerpt of Strong and Sexy here.

E-X-C-E-R-P-T

Smart and Sexy, released 1 Apr 2007

“I have to get there quickly. Like yesterday quickly.”

“As in hijack-a-pilot quickly?”

“I didn’t hijack you,” she said with a primness that made him want to laugh — if there’d been anything remotely funny about this situation. “You were going anyway,” she said in the same old refrain.

He slid her a long glance.

She broke eye contact again.

“Okay,” he said, deciding to bite. “So what is this ‘something’ you have to get quickly?”

She put her nose to the window. “Are we almost there?”

“Done talking, are we?” he asked dryly.

She didn’t answer.

Yeah, apparently, she was done talking. She’d definitely omitted plenty, leaving out a whole bunch of her story, including how the hell she’d gotten herself roughed up and by whom.

Not his problem, he reminded himself, even if just looking at her invoked Superman tendencies. He was going to Mammoth for some desperately needed R&R.

And a ski bunny.

Nothing else, including saving damsels in distress.

With that thought, he began landing preparations. He reduced power and lowered the flaps, controlling the nose, maintaining altitude, but in yet another unwelcome turn of events, the landing gear didn’t lower.

Unbelievable. He flicked the switch again, prepared to adjust the trim at the drag to stabilize the nose again, but nope, the landing gear definitely did not lower. “Shit.”

“What is it?” she asked.

He looked into her lovely, terrified face. How to tell her they might be coming in for a landing on their belly? “Come here.”

“Why?” asked his suspicious little hijacker.

There was no sugar-coating the insanity. “We have a little problem.”

“That’s an oxymoron when you’re in the air.”

He let out a mirthless laugh. “Yeah. Listen, the landing gear didn’t lower.”

Her mouth fell open.

“I need you to fly the plane while I go crank it down manually.” Crank, kick . . . whatever it took.

The color drained completely out of her face. “Ohmigod. Without the landing gear, we can’t land. Right?”

“Sure we can, we just do it on our belly. Not nearly as smooth though, trust me.”

She swallowed hard. “That’s nowhere close to a little problem.”

“Compared to falling out of the sky, it is. Get over here, Princess.”

“Can you really fix it?”

“Yeah. I’ve seen a guy do it once or twice.”

“Omigod!”

“I’m kidding! Yes, I can fix it. If you get over here.”

“Noah–”

The plane shuddered. More turbulence. Perfect. “Now, goddamnit.” To help her along, he snagged a fistful of the front of her sweatshirt and yanked. With a gasp, she flew toward him, and something slid out of her front pocket, clattering on the floor.

A large, fat pen.

A pen that probably, if shoved up against him, would feel like a gun. He stared down at the thing until it rolled beneath the seat.

“You’re kidding me.”

The truth was written all over her face. “I–”

“You’re kidding me.” He couldn’t believe it, didn’t want to believe it. “A pen? You held me up with a pen?”