Sandy M’s review of Five Ways ‘Til Sunday (Delta Heat, Book 1) by Delilah Devlin
Contemporary Erotic Romance short story ebook published by Samhain 22 Nov 11

I haven’t had such a dilemma like this with a book in quite a while. I like the characters. I like the story. Then I didn’t care for the story. Then I’d like it again, but I’d hit another snag several pages later. Mostly, I just don’t see this hero allowing such things to happen, even if his BFFs are involved.

Jackson and Marti have a very active sex life – adventurous, sexy, and fun. In fact, the opening scene is quite fun, role playing behind Marti’s locked office door. I enjoyed that a lot. Jackson is one of those men who can win a woman over every which way, so when Marti keeps rejecting his love for her and his proposals of marriage, he tells her he’ll do anything to make her feel comfortable saying yes.

For Marti, it’s more that she’s not up to his standards – no education, tattoos, blue-streaked hair, piercings, and she manages a bar for heaven’s sake. Officer Jackson Teague deserves more than that. Of course, as far as he’s concerned, it’s all in her mind. He loves all of things about her. But when Marti fudges and tells him she has a bucket list of things to try before she marries, Jackson calls her bluff and demands to see her list.

At first he’s a little taken aback at what he reads, but with the help of his five best friends on the force with him, Jackson is determined to show Marti she has no reason to fear commitment from either one of them. So they set up the situations she wants to experience – a hooker working a street corner, making love in a cop car, and other such scenarios, each a tad more erotic than the last. And while these scenes are very erotic, ménages five ways and then some to help Marti give Jackson the answer he wants, this is where my problem with all of it comes about.

These buddies may be Jackson’s best friends, two of them since high school, but a man who loves a woman as much as Jackson loves Marti (and as much as she loves him but just won’t admit it yet), I just can’t see him letting any man put his hands and mouth on her and his cock inside her. Jackson even at one point says no penetration, but the next thing you know, all kinds of penetration are going on. And when Marti discovers Jackson sees beyond her reason for concocting the list in the first place, all of the shenanigans should have ended, but it’s Jackson himself who insists they’re nowhere near done with her yearnings. Yes, in the end Marti wakes up after her fantasies are realized; the men are still best friends despite their wild and wicked weekend, so all’s well that ends well. The journey getting there just doesn’t work for me as well as it does for them. I do love the depiction of Jackson on this cover, though. Whew-boy, just like he’s described in the book.

Despite all of this, however, I like these characters, including Jackson’s buds. They’re fun and likeable, and since this is the first book in the Delta Heat series, we’re going to see more of them in the future. It will be interesting to see what Ms. Devlin does with them all.

Grade: C

Summary:

Sometimes a man’s just gotta call for backup…

Marti Kowalski is all wrong for Officer Jackson Teague—he just won’t listen to reason. She didn’t finish high school, runs a bar. Has a tattoo and a blue streak in her hair. Yet he still wants to marry her? She can’t say she’s not tempted, but she’s got a bucket list to complete before she ties the knot.

Not just any bucket—more like a fifty-five-gallon drum of sexual wishes so explicit, there’s no way one man, even Jackson, can fulfill them all.

When Marti turns him down again, Jackson doesn’t give up, he insists on knowing why. That’s when she shows him her list. He takes it, thinks about it—and calls on the only men he can trust: four buddies from his academy graduating class.

Between the five of them, he’s sure they can come up with a plan to check off every item on her list in one wild, wicked weekend. That is, if she has the nerve to follow through—and if he can bear to share her.

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Craving the Highlander’s Touch by Michelle Willingham
Historical romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Sep 11

As the Undone line has evolved, many authors have chosen to utilize the shorter format as a “teaser” for their full-length Harlequin Historical books.  Like all things concerning series books, it all boils down to how much series-itis creeps in, and whether or not as the reader I feel like I’m being manipulated.  Yes, I’m talking execution.  Michelle Willingham is one who loves to use the Undone line to flesh out secondary characters from her connected novels, and she’s also one that generally makes it work for me.  This short story tied to her MacKinloch Clan books is no exception.

Alys Fitzroy, Lady of Harkirk, has endured a marriage to a brutish English husband.  Besides terrorizing her, he’s made many enemies among the local Scots – who he has a habit of imprisoning and torturing.  Although English herself, this treatment of the locals sickens Alys, especially when it involves children.  So she does what she can, freeing as many of them as she can – helping them to run away.

Finian MacLachor is his clan’s chief, and his failed uprising against Alys’ dear husband has not gone well.  He’s a man who has lost everything – his wife, his daughter, and his very soul.  Beaten, bloody, and sitting in the dungeons waiting to be made an example of, he’s resigned himself to die, because he thinks he has no right to live.  Then Alys shows up with the keys.

Willingham tends to put a lot of story in her Undones, but this one might take first prize.  This really could have been a full-length novel.  Between the various character baggage, the battle scene, the love scenes, and the final chapter?  There’s a lot going on here.  While the author does have to take a few “happens off page” short cuts to keep things moving along, this is a story I could really sink my teeth into.  It is also especially lovely to read love scenes that are an intricate part of the romance and character development.  They aren’t here just for filler – they need to be in this story.

I do think reading the two full-length novels will allow readers to get a bit more out of this story.  However, that being said, I still have both novels languishing in my TBR and I rather liked this short tale.  If anything, it succeeded in me kicking my own behind for letting those novels sit unread for these last several months.  So in the end?  The author’s ploy worked.  Teasing me with the short makes me want to run out and read the full-length stories.  Which makes me part of the problem, but given how much I enjoyed this story?  I don’t rightly care.

Grade: B

Summary:

Scotland, 1306

For Alys Fitzroy, Lady of Harkirk, her brutish husband is more of an enemy than the wild Scots she is supposed to hate. Her heart longs to help her husband’s prisoners—especially Finian MacLachor, the intense Highland chief who bears the scars of his own failed uprising, both inside and out. With her help, he has a second chance to make things right for his clan—and and to show Alys the nights of unbelievable pleasure she’s been missing.…

No Excerpt Found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of The Queen’s Consort by Leia Rice
Erotica short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Jul 11

Pour a glass of wine into me and I’ll wax poetic about how erotica isn’t “just about sex.”  That in “good erotica,” written predominantly for a female readership, the sex is a catalyst for the heroine’s journey.  Yeah, I know – blah, blah, blah.  Listen, not all erotica is created equal.  Pour a second glass of wine into me and I’ll admit that some erotica?  Yeah, is all about the sex.  But you know what?  That’s not always a bad thing.  If nothing else, it adds a whole other definition to the expression “reading for pleasure.”

Arabelle is a royal maid for Marie Antoinette and has been getting her kicks of late watching the queen be pleasured by her consort.  During one such spying adventure she makes a little too much noise, and while navigating the secret passageways in the palace, the consort catches up to her.  It doesn’t exactly take a rocket scientist to know what happens next.

If you’re looking for serious naughty times in your erotica, you don’t get much naughtier than Louis XVI royal court prior to the French Revolution.  There’s oodles of palace intrigue and more hanger-ons than at a hip-hop awards show.  However, this is a short story, and an erotic one at that – so the author really glosses over the horrors of the Revolution.  Admittedly, I wasn’t terribly wild about this treatment, but crimes against humanity is definitely not the tone the author was shooting for.

Now, that being said, if you just want sexy times and don’t necessarily care (or want) some deep, angsty treatment of the time period?  By all means, this short story might be for you.  You’ve got a hero who can probably set a world’s record for stamina and horny-ness.  You’ve got a heroine who is so lusty that she lets a total stranger deflower her, and then after she’s done?  She goes back to her quarters to have encounters with other maids!  Chinese New Year doesn’t have this many fireworks.

It all boils down to what the reader wants.  If you want a hot short story with wall-to-wall, (I’ll just say it) skanky shenanigans?  Oh man, drop everything and download this right now.  But if you’re looking for a more highfalutin’ form of erotica that you can shove in the faces of all those naysayers out there?  Probably not this short story.  However, that doesn’t make this a “bad” story and it doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the heck out of reading it.

Yeah, I just said that – and I totally own it.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Royal maid Arabelle fantasizes about taking the queen’s place, but not for power or riches. She wants to be pleasured by the queen’s secret consort. Watching them together arouses cravings that her trysts with other men and her sensual encounters with her fellow maids cannot satisfy. She longs to be given licentious commands from the mysterious man, and to give orders in return.

Then, in the secret halls of Versailles, Arabelle’s fantasy comes true—with even more wicked pleasures than she imagined….

No excerpt available.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of One Night as a Courtesan by Ann Lethbridge
Historical Romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Oct 10

I read a full-length “Regency” historical romance recently that had absolutely no sense of place.  It could have easily taken place on a Texas cattle ranch in 1968 as Regency London.  I immediately thought back to my reading of that particular book while zipping through this short story by Ann Lethbridge.  Why?  Because this short story had more Regency flavor 100 times over than that full-length novel.

Julia Partridge is a widow who has fallen on hard times.  Such hard times that she gets caught stealing.  Coming to her “rescue” is a madam at a local brothel.  Julia is to get auctioned off for one night, with one man – and in exchange she’ll get a pile of money.  With no other options, and desperate for those promised funds, Julia agrees.  Of course, she had no idea that the man who “won” her in the auction would turn out to be Alistair Crawford, Duke of Dunstan, a man so notorious for his reputation that his nickname is “the Dissolute Duke!”

Kudos to the author for actually giving readers a real rake.  This is a guy who has privileged ennui stamped all over him.  It’s practically oozing out of his pores.  So yeah, it’s not like you fall in love with him as a hero the moment he steps on the page.  I like that Julia faces issues that are very believable for the time period.  A widow, with no family to rely on, and no nest egg stashed away for her by her dead husband.  Not a lot of options.

As lovely as the sense of place was, and as much as I appreciated the author’s characterizations, there were moments in the romance that did give me pause.  The author excels at the love scenes, evoking them in a slow, sensual manner.  However, I couldn’t help feeling that a big reason Alistair falls for Julia is because she’s not your “typical” brothel girl.  It’s okay for him to fall in love with her because she’s smart, well-spoken, and obviously “quality.”  Meaning if she was working class and poor, there’s no way in heck he’d give her a second look.  So yeah, he’s a snob.  To be fair, he’s a bloody duke!  Of course he’s going to be a snob!  I also feel the ending is a bit much, given the short time frame of the story, but it is a historical so “let’s date for a while” isn’t really an option and, honestly, “be my mistress” doesn’t exactly scream romance.

That being said, this is a nice, sensual read, and good example of what I want from the Undone line.  It is short, it has a nice sense of place, and the love scenes are steamy.  If you want a little steam with a Regency era that isn’t wallpaper and you’re open to short stories?  Look no further.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Widow Julia Partridge is desperate. To repay a debt, she’s forced to sell herself in an auction at the most exclusive bawdy house in London. Julia only has to get through one night with one man—though she never imagined that man would be Alistair Crawford, the dissolute Duke of Dunstan! Alistair has the face of a fallen angel…and a reputation for vice to match. Yet when he turns his attentions to Julia, he unexpectedly arouses more passion in a few moments than she’d felt in her entire marriage….

No Excerpt Found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of One Wicked Christmas by Amanda McCabe
Historical Romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Nov 11

I always pick up books by Amanda McCabe because she never gives readers the same thing twice.  She’s done everything from the 15th century to the 1920s.  Any author who delivers that kind of variety gets my attention.  I wish I could say I loved this latest, a Christmas short story set in Regency England, but, alas, it didn’t really work for me.

Lady Cassandra Osborne is a young widow who loved her kind, gentle husband.  They led a quiet life and made lovely companions.  Since his death she’s locked herself away, and her best friend is urging her that it’s time to take a lover.  The problem is that the only man who interests her is her husband’s roguish BFF, Sir Ian Chandler.  Ian came around a lot after her husband died and looked after her.  But after they shared a smoldering kiss?  Yeah, Ian has been out-of-sight, although not for one moment out-of-mind.  When it turns out that Cassandra and Ian are invited to the same Christmas house party?  Yeah, we all know where this is going.

I actually tend to like plots of this nature, but in a short story format it’s really problematic.  When strung out over a full-length novel, the author has time to explore the internal angst of the characters and slowly unfold the developing romance.  In a short story?  It comes off as distasteful.  I honestly find myself feeling sorry for the dead husband when it’s revealed that Ian, his best friend!, has had the hots for Cassandra since the wedding day!  Then there is the manner in which Cassandra and Ian fall into bed together.  She sneaks into his room expecting a romp with another man.  Eww.

That being said, McCabe’s writing style continues to really work for me, and I zipped through this short story in quicker manner than is my usual custom.  While it doesn’t work for me, it certainly hasn’t put me off from this author’s work, and who knows?  Maybe it will work better for you.

Grade: D+

Summary:

London, 1806

Lady Cassandra Osborne is ready to take a new lover to her bed—and knows exactly the man she wants: Sir Ian Chandler, her late husband’s rakish best friend. The single kiss they’d shared had made her feel alive again, awakening dark needs she didn’t even know she had…though Ian had quickly pulled away. Cassie is sure he doesn’t want her, until their reunion at a Christmas house party tempts them to succumb to the desire that has haunted them both….

No Excerpt Found.

Sandy M’s review of 10 Ways to Steal Your Lover (Love by Numbers, Book 1) by Dee Tenorio
Contemporary Erotic Romance short story published by Dee Tenorio 15 Dec 11

Well, I just have to read Dee Tenorio more often. That’s all there is to it. She intrigues me with her characters and storylines, makes me laugh, her heroes make me sizzle and burn, and she packs so much into a shorter length book. But you know what’s almost better than all that?

I like the fact she can put two characters together in a room or any other small, enclosed space for pages and even chapters and never once do those scenes get boring. She did that quite successfully in Shaken, which I really enjoyed. (If you haven’t read that book, you should!) And she does it here just as successfully, starting the book off with our hero and heroine, Kane and Delilah, waking up together, naked, and with very hazy, nearly non-existent memories of the night before – Delilah’s wedding night – to Craig. Not Kane. Oh, boy.

So between touches and kisses and lots of steaminess in their Las Vegas hotel room, they try to figure out how the hell they ended up together like this. Each remembers a different portion of the previous evening. First order of business is to start investigating to see what they can find out about the happenings of last night, along with figuring out where the bag of money in the hotel closet came from. Did they rob a casino? Not once are these scenes mundane in any way. Kane and Delilah go from bewilderment to hot and bothered to guilt and a few other emotions, all wrapped in a sensuousness in those very close quarters.

And thus begins their trek of talking to whoever they can to discover how their world woke up feeling so right in and among the guilt – not the feeling of settling for something less. They get a lot of discovering done before they have to face Delilah’s parents – and Craig. Kane, Jesse, and Craig have been best friends for years, the unlikeliest of friends you’ll find, but the friendship works and is quite special to each of them. You can imagine then how Kane must feel to face Craig, knowing what he’s done to this man who’s also like a brother. The same goes for Delilah, but she has the added stress of also facing her military father – the booming drill sergeant type man who expects to be obeyed, no matter what.

I have to tell you, the way the story unfolds, bit by bit, the haziness clearing away, the sacrifices and pure friendship that are revealed are just wonderful. Dee Tenorio always gives readers these little romantic jewels that never disappoint. Try one of her books and you’ll know exactly what I mean.

Grade: B+

Summary:

His best friend’s wedding just turned into the craziest hangover ever…

Kane Wilkensen’s buddy was about to marry the girl of Kane’s dreams. Which would have been fine—heartbreaking but fine—if Kane hadn’t woken up in a Las Vegas honeymoon suite with her, a giant sack of money and a great big blank spot in both their memories first.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

5 Secrets You Never Tell – 2012

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Another Chance by Portia Da Costa
Erotic Romance short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Sep 11

There is a definite skill in writing short, and some authors just seem to be born with it.  Portia Da Costa is one of these writers.  Yes, I’m reading a short story, and no, that is never the same thing as a full-length novel, but I still feel like I’m getting a full story.  Do I want more?  Sure.  But that doesn’t mean the story is “lacking” because of its brevity.

It’s been a while since Maud Piper has had a lover, which probably explains why happening upon her employers, the Marquis and Marchioness of Blaystock Manor, having a little spankin’ fun in their kitchen has gotten her all worked up.  She’s enjoying the show, out of sight, or so she thinks.  William Graves, the groundskeeper at the estate, catches her in the act of spying, and doing other things (wink, wink, nudge, nudge).  Being a gentleman, he helps her out – which gets Maud thinking, maybe William is the man who can fulfill her needs.

This story is textbook Da Costa and has all the trademarks I’ve come to love about her work.  There’s a lovely playfulness to the characters and love scenes.  The story is told from Maud’s point-of-view and she’s just the sort of heroine you’d love to be best friends with.  As an added bonus?  She’s 45 (happy day!) and an archivist (darn close to librarian!).

Behind the playful love scenes, and the mild kink of the spanking storyline, there’s a depth here that is also refreshing.  Maud hasn’t had a partner who has met her needs since a former finance.  What happened to that relationship and what she shares in common with William make for a nice touching moment in the final moments of the story.

Things end on an upbeat note.  This is a short story, so wedding bells would be forcing the issue, but this tale ends in such a way that a full-fledged romance isn’t hard to imagine.  Since Da Costa likes to resurrect past couples and slyly insert them into new stories (see: the Marquis and Marchioness), hopefully we’ll run into Maud and William again down the road.

Grade: B+

Summary:

The Chance of a Lifetime…Again.

It’s been a long time since Maud Piper has had a lover, particularly one who can give her what she really wants: the masterful hand of a strong, powerful man. The sting of pain that turns into pleasure.

Only Maud’s late fiancé had been able to satisfy her. Not even watching her employers at Blaystock Manor, the Marquis and Marchioness, in their own rough love play brings her the release she longs for—until she is caught in the act by William Graves, the estate’s ruggedly handsome steward. Can he give Maud another chance to experience the pleasure she craves?

The highly anticipated sequel to Portia Da Costa’s Chance of a Lifetime.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Shooting Stars by Bella Andre
Time Travel Romance erotic short story ebook published by Bella Andre 15 Oct 10

I’m a huge time travel fan, so I was a pleasantly surprised when I started reading this short story and found time traveling is the main star. Among the shooting starts needed to help our heroines out anyway. I’m glad Bella Andre decided to breathe new life into her older books. I’ve had fun with the two I’ve read so far.

Now, you have to keep in mind Shooting Stars is a short story. It suffers the same fate as pretty much every other short story out there – not enough time for the characters to delve into each other but in bed. Christina and Christiania know what they want, what they need in their lives to be happy. So when they see it, experience it, they know it’s right. Therefore, take this book for what it is and go with the flow. Especially the hot, hot sex!

Christina has picked up another man at another bar. For sex. Same old, same old for her lately. So much so she begins daydreaming this time around instead of enjoying Jake’s ministrations. Suddenly she’s thrown into the past, trading places with the girl who is marrying an alpha-to-the-core Scottish laird, Marcus. He wants a biddable wife to give him sons, and that’s what he’s getting in Christiania. The next thing he knows, however, his wife has become too independent and cusses up a storm.

Christiania is too shy, too timid for the likes of Marcus. She needs gentle wooing and loving. Finding herself thrust into the life and bed of Jake, the one who doesn’t do it for Christina, is just what Christiania needs. Jake is a man who gives more than he takes, seeing to Christiania’s wants before his own. They’re perfect for each other.

Of course, all doesn’t go well for long. After getting exactly what they want, each woman is tossed back into her own time to the man neither wants to be with. Trying to figure out a way to travel back to where they belong isn’t as easy as it was the first time around. Why doesn’t a shooting star work for them a second time?

Don’t look for depth of character or intense plot. Don’t look for believability or reality. Take the steaminess and the twist of fate as it’s meant – a good, fun read in 50 pages. ‘Nuff said.

Grade: B-

Summary:

San Francisco, present: Christina wishes the men she took to bed could be more like the warriors of the past: strong, sexy and just a little bit scary.

Scotland, 1320: Convent-raised Christiania prays for a gentle man to save her from marriage to a warrior. A shooting star and a fervent wish for their heart’s desire are all it takes for both women’s dreams and wildest sexual desires to come true.

No excerpt available.

Sandy M’s review of Ecstasy by Bella Andre
Contemporary Romance erotic short story ebook published by Bella Andre 1 Aug 11

When I read the first few paragraphs of this book, I kept thinking, “Shades of Romancing the Stone” – that first adventure scene where you end up being relieved it’s not really the movie but an excerpt from Joan Wilder’s manuscript. So when reading Charlie Gibson’s erotic story at the beginning of this book, I held my breath, waiting to find out what Bella Andre intended to do. Boy, was I ever surprised!

I’m happy to say Ms. Andre gives readers a fun story with equally fun characters. That isn’t to say there aren’t a couple of issues, but for the most part I enjoyed getting to know Charlie and Candace through their relationship with each other and through their writing.

Deciding to make a change in her writing, Candy wants to write erotic romance novels. She’s finding that a little difficult in more ways than one. The writing group she joins is disgusted with her porn, and her dates only want to get into her pants when they find out what she does for a living. Attending an erotic romance conference changes her life all the way around. All she had to do is bowl over and fall on top of Charlie Gibson, successful erotic writer.

Charlie has suffered pretty much the same fate: when women find out he writes sexy and sensual books, they simply walk out on him, thinking he’s perverted and the scum of the earth. He’d give anything to find that one woman who wouldn’t look at him in such a light. When he’s bowled over by Candace, his destiny is about to change. Agreeing to mentor her during the conference, Charlie comes up with a lesson plan that will teach her all she needs to know to get her words on paper for publication. He’s taken by surprise when Candace takes those lessons a step further.

Lesson by lesson they become lovers, each falling for the other but afraid to say anything due to the circumstances of their attraction. Both vow to tell the other how they feel after the mentoring is over. In the meantime, Candace’s writing has taken on a whole new light, and she even enters her story in a contest just to see how it goes over with the judges. Yes, she wins the contest, but will she lose Charlie when he finds out what she’s really done?

While I definitely enjoy Charlie and Candace as they get to know one another in every carnal way possible, I also want to know more about them personally. They never really talk to each other to learn those little things lovers find out. I think that’s mostly due to this being a short story, but even a short scene or two would make me happy. And I’m a tad irritated with Candace not thinking about Charlie in terms of the erotic contest she enters. I mean, he is an erotic writer, after all. That she doesn’t put two and two together just doesn’t sit right.

But, all in all, Ecstasy is an entertaining romp that will keep you turning the pages to see what these two are up to next.

Grade:B-

Summary:

Candace, a newcomer to writing erotica, is thrilled when Charlie, a veteran of the industry, agrees to be her mentor.  But neither of them ever expected that Charlie’s lessons on new positions, using toys, varying locations and role playing would spiral from verbal instruction into hot, hands on education.  Unfortunately, Candace’s deception about the new erotic romance she’s writing–where Charlie plays the starring role–is about to threaten their one chance at true love.

No excerpt available.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of The Earl Takes a Lover by Georgia E. Jones
Historical erotica digital short story published by Spice Briefs 01 Jul 11

I’m a sucker for historicals with an erotic edge, so whenever I see one pop up in the Spice Briefs line, I always take a closer look.  Georgia E. Jones is a writer I’ve never read before, and the back cover blurb sounded enticing, so I gave it a whirl.  I wish I could say I fell madly in love – but sadly, not so much.

Penelope Montague makes her way in the world as a companion for an elderly lady.  Educated in a convent, what nobody is aware of is that young Penelope is the daughter of a prostitute and, for the first few years of her life, was raised in a brothel!  Not only that, she’s the author of the scandalous A Woman’s Handbook, which has ladies in a swoon and gentlemen in a lather.

It’s in her duties as a companion that she meets the new Earl of Thanet, Robin Sackville Tufton.  Robin is a rake of the first order, but now that he has inherited the title he finds himself thwarting off various matchmaking mamas.  When he spies Penelope, he knows that he must have her.  But what will happen when he discovers one taste is not enough?  As an Earl, Penelope is so far beneath him she might as well be hanging out with The Mole People.  And sure as shootin’, she ain’t content to be no man’s mistress.

While the sexy times were certainly sizzling, everything else about this story didn’t work for me.  While born to a prostitute and raised in a brothel, Penelope is still, conveniently, a virgin. Frankly, this smacked of the author wanting to have her cake and eat it too.  Especially since Penelope apparently “knows” enough about Sexy Times to write a book, but not enough so that Robin can still “educate” her.  Bah humbug.  We’re also to believe that when the patrons of said brothel begin to take notice of young Penelope, the madam ships her off to convent school.  OK, I’m calling shenanigans on this one.  What self-respecting madam in early 19th century London is going to ship off a potential money-making bonanza?  No hooker has a heart of gold that pure, let alone a madam who is, (hello?!) essentially, a pimp.  Don’t they kick you out of the Big Pimpin’ Union for that sort of thing?

Even if you’re willing to roll with Penelope’s background, there’s the small matter of the ending.  Um, there isn’t one.  This story just stops.  The resolution to the conflict?  Yeah, there isn’t any.  It just….stops.  This might not be totally disconcerting in a straight-up erotic story, but I viewed more than one romance road sign over the course of my reading.  So to have things just….stop?  With no real resolution?  Frustrating doesn’t even begin to cover it.  Bah humbug indeed.

Grade: D

Summary:

London, 1801

No one could have guessed that virginal companion Penelope Montague is the author of the scandalous manual A Woman’s Handbook. Society believes she was educated in a convent, unaware she spent the first half of her life raised by the ladies of the famous Black Swan brothel.

Only rake Robin Sackville Tufton, Earl of Thanet, sees the sensual woman behind Pen’s proper exterior. From the moment he sees her, he wants her more than anything else. But Pen isn’t fit to be an earl’s wife, nor can he simply take her—despite her passionate response to his touch. Can Robin and Penelope rein in their desire…or will they find a way to indulge it?

No excerpt found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s Quick Quack Reviews of Two Harlequin Historical Undones by Amanda McCabe
Historical romance digital short stories released by Harlequin Historical Undone Apr – Aug 2011

In what has become a familiar song and dance around The Pond, Wendy has once again been hording short stories on her e-reader.  Oh, who am I kidding – I never really stopped.  So in a bid to clean out some of the back-log, I thought I’d bundle up two reviews in one for Amanda McCabe’s most recent work for Harlequin Historical Undone.  McCabe is an author who has generally worked for me in the shorter format in the past, so I settled in with high hopes for some solid reads.  One worked pretty well, while the other?  Not so much.

Unlacing The Lady In Waiting
August 2011

16th century Scotland is all about making favorable alliances, which explains how Lady Helen Frasier has found herself betrothed to James McKerrigan.  This an arrangement she is unhappy with, given that all she has heard her entire life is how vile, evil, and barbaric every McKerrigan is.  But what’s a girl to do?  Defy her father?  Yeah, not an option.  So instead she takes off for some solitude to collect her thoughts, where she runs into the most dashing man.  Gee, guess who our mystery man is?  Yeah.  Anywho, everything seems to be going along swimmingly, until word gets to Daddy that Helen has been chosen to be a lady in waiting for Mary, Queen of Scots.  The engagement is, naturally, broken – so when Helen returns to Scotland years later?  Good ol’ James is there to meet her and claim his bride.

This is one of those stories where I knew where it was going before it got there.  There’s nothing inherently wrong with this, and I’m still capable of enjoying themes, tropes, and various plot bits I’ve read numerous times before.  The problem here is that we have a massive case of Insta-Lurve.  Some stolen kisses and heavy petting with James (prior to knowing he’s James, of course) is enough for Helen to fall madly in love with him.  And James with her.  Sorry, not buying.  It takes more than that for me to believe these two are in love and pining for each other while they are apart.

Grade: C

Summary:

Scotland, 1561

Lady Helen Frasier thought Highlanders were barbaric—until she shared an intimate encounter with her betrothed, James McKerrigan. Though their families were enemies, the Highland lord roused a surprising passion in Helen. Then she was chosen to become a lady in waiting to the queen, and their engagement was broken.

Now, Helen has returned to Scotland and her jilted lover, who has vowed to take revenge and claim his promised bride….

No Excerpt Found

Girl in the Beaded Mask
April 2011

Lady Louise “Lulu” Hatton has escaped from her first season in London to return to the country.  She suffered through dreadfully dull debutante balls and shared more than one sub-par stolen kiss with would-be suitors.  The only man she has ever wanted is her brother’s best friend, David Carlisle.  However, when David returned from World War I, he came home a changed man.  Wounded, scarred, and haunted by the death of Lulu’s brother.  When an invitation shows up for a local house party where David will be in attendance?  Lulu defies her parents, dresses for the masquerade, and sets out to get her man.

This is a pretty solid story with a wonderful 1920s back-drop.  Most of my issues stem from this tale not being long enough.  Given the constraints of the Undone line, David’s PTSD is glossed over considerably, and while I could buy these two being in love?  There’s hardly any mention of her parents, and no mention whatsoever of the fall-out of David deflowering Lulu.  I mean, by all accounts her parents “like” David – but would they consider him a suitable match for their daughter?  That’s another kettle of fish.

Grade: B-

Summary:

England, 1922

David Carlisle believes no woman would want to marry the broken and isolated man who has returned from the trenches of France. Especially vivacious Lady Louise Hatton, better known as Lulu—the one woman who makes his heart begin to thaw with her bright smile.

What David doesn’t realize is that Lulu has been fantasizing about him her whole life. And at a scandalous masked ball, she’s determined to show David just how badly she wants him….

No Excerpt Found

One of the reasons I tend to glom on to Amanda McCabe’s work is that she’s not afraid to tinker around with different settings and time periods.  Just looking at her short story work for Undone, she has refused to be pigeon-holed into writing one “type” of story.  Which these two particular examples illustrate quite beautifully, even if one story worked better for me than the other.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Taking Her Boss (Glory Tales #1) by Alegra Verde
Contemporary erotica digital short story published by Spice Briefs 01 Apr 11

When someone asks me why I read erotica, my flippant answer is “because like it.”  All the reasons why I like it cannot truly be condensed down in a two-second sound bite, but one aspect of it?  I get off (hardy har har) on erotic stories that challenge.  Not just my own personal notions of what is sexy or “erotic,” but even those notions that are held by “polite society” – for lack of a better description.  In other words, no, it’s not all about the sex.  The sex in “good” erotica serves as a catalyst for some larger issue.

Glory James likes her job as personal assistant to ad executive Bruce Davies.  Although apparently not enough to keep from boinking a client in her office.  When Bruce catches them in the act, Glory expects to get, if not fired, reprimanded.  So imagine her surprise when Bruce confesses an attraction to her and drops the bombshell that he likes to be given orders in the bedroom.  Whatever shall they do now?

I’ll be honest and disclose that I picked up this story because I enjoy reading about dominant heroines.  I wasn’t really looking for earth-shattering depth here, just something different from the prevailing hero = Dom, heroine = submissive that seems to dominant (ha!) the genre.  The reader does have to get past the set-up of the story, but what follows is some very intriguing fallout.

Glory proceeds to enter into a relationship with Bruce, but it’s not without consequences.  Bruce seems to be able to go about his business at the office, flip the switch, and pretend nothing is going on outside.  Glory?  Yeah, not so much.

This is a dicey story, and one that I have a hard time recommending out-right to all readers of erotica.  At one point during their play-time, Glory calls Bruce a nasty slur that will very likely offend some readers.  Also, later in the story, when Glory finds herself distancing herself from the situation, Bruce comes off kind of stalker-ish.  All of this leads to a slightly uncomfortable ending, where things are still very much up in the air.  Which hopefully means more Glory Tales to follow.  Because even as uncomfortable as this story made me at times?  Yeah, I don’t want to be done yet.  This probably says nothing good about me, but you know what?  I don’t rightly care.

Grade: B-

Summary:

When Glory James’s boss catches her having sex with a client at the office, she expects to get reprimanded, not Bruce Davies’s revelation that he wants her, too.Even more shocking is his confession that he likes to be told what to do in bed—and that Glory is aroused by the idea…

No excerpt found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Her Fantasy by Saskia Walker
Erotic romance short story ebook published by Spice Briefs 01 Mar 11

It takes a special skill for an author to deliver a satisfying read in the length of a short story.  Not only does Saskia Walker have a healthy backlist, she’s written an impressive amount of shorter works.  So when I opened up Her Fantasy, I knew I was in the hands of a pro.  Yes, the gift box was small – but think of it as a jewelry box.

Anya Reid split from her boyfriend when she realizes that not only has the sizzle gone out of the relationship, but that she is finding herself tempted by other men.  Well, one man in particular – Warren McClure.  Never one to cheat, she takes this attraction to mean that something is definitely wrong in Denmark.  She figures even if Warren doesn’t think of her “that way,” it’s still a sign, so she’s content to be single.  But when Warren asks her out on a date?  Yeah, she doesn’t say no.  In fact, even before he broaches the subject of sexual fantasies over dinner, they’re already setting off enough sparks to power all of London.

Warren has had a crush on Anya since he first laid eyes on her at the office.  But she was involved with someone else, and Warren does not go poaching on another man’s territory.  So he’s played around, never satisfied because those women aren’t Anya, and bided his time.  Now his time is here, and he’s not about to blow it.  And if that means making Anya’s sexual fantasies come true?  So be it.

What I enjoyed about this short story is that there is an actual flesh and blood story.  It’s not just a bunch of sex scenes strung together.  I really feel like Walker shows me a world, a slice of a developing relationship, and I honestly find myself charmed by the romance.  I like Anya and Warren.  In fact, in between the hot sex and the eventual ménage a trios episode, there’s a lovely sweetness here.  I also like that after the ménage it’s not just “Oh, well, that was fun.” These two actually ::gasp:: talk about it and where their relationship is heading.

Yes, it’s a short story.  No, it’s not a full-length novel.  Yes, it’s an office romance, so readers need to get past the Danger, Danger Sexual Harassment Lawsuit warning bells.  But it’s still damn good.  In fact, it’s one of the finer Spice Briefs stories I’ve had the pleasure to read.  More, please.

Grade: B+

Summary:

“Which sexual fantasy is your ultimate turn-on?”

How is Anya Reid supposed to control her lust for her sexy coworker Warren McClure when he asks questions like that on their very first date? She has wanted Warren and to be more adventurous in bed for a long time, but she never expected him to be so direct…or to correctly guess that a menage is her secret desire.

Soon Warren isn’t just talking about Anya’s fantasies — he’s making them come true. But does he want a true relationship, or is he only interested in their erotic games?

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Taming Her Gypsy Lover by Christine Merrill
Historical romance ebook short story published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 May 10

I adore the Harlequin Historical Undone line, but I have this annoying habit of hording the short stories on my Sony Reader.  Which would be the half-ass excuse I have for just now reading this prequel to the multi-author Harlequin Historical Silk & Scandal series almost one year after it’s release date.  Well, better late than never I suppose!

When Emma Hammond’s husband dies she’s relegated to the status of poor relation in her uncle’s household.  Dear Uncle has plans to wash his hands of her by foisting her off into an arranged marriage with one of his “yes men.”  Emma doesn’t see a way out until a darkly handsome Gypsy comes calling.

Chal Pannell arrives on the scene to claim a young gypsy boy that Emma’s cousin-in-law took from his tribe.  However the boy is no longer there, and instead Chal finds Emma – a woman he is immediately drawn to.  For her part, Emma sees her way out.  She’ll provide Chal with information to help him locate the boy – and in return, he takes her with him.

As a prequel to the Silk & Scandal series this story works quite well.  It lays the groundwork, gives readers a glimpse into the “scandal,” and sets the fallout in motion.  As a stand-alone short story it has some problems.  The time table for the romance is very short (as in, a couple of days), and while the Georgian era is drawn well, I had some nagging issues.  Namely, I have a hard time picturing Chal debauching Emma in the gardens while she’s wearing Georgian clothing.  Also, while the author does sell it fairly well, it’s still a bit problematic to think of an English lady taking to the Gypsy lifestyle so effortlessly.  But the story is interesting, Chal is tall, dark and handsome, and there are plenty of sexy-times to be had.

All in all, not a terrible way to spend some pre-bedtime reading.  It certainly did the job of peaking my interest in the Silk & Scandal series, of which I have several in my TBR.

Grade: C

Summary:

Widow Emma Hammond had reluctantly accepted her place as a poor relation to be given away in an arranged marriage. She didn’t think she could escape her fate—until she meets gypsy Chal Pannell. Even though he vows revenge against her family for taking a gypsy boy from his tribe, he awakens Emma’s passionate fantasies…and a risqué tryst in the woods proves he desires her just as strongly! When the boy goes missing, Emma and the wild stranger set off to recover him as unlikely allies—and uninhibited lovers….

No Excerpt Found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of To Court, Capture and Conquer by Amanda McCabe
Historical Romance ebook short story published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Nov 10

I am in awe of Amanda McCabe.  Besides the fact that she’s one of the hardest working writers in romance (she’s also Laurell McKee!), she’s always willing to explore a variety of settings.  To Court, Capture and Conquer is the latest of her work set in the criminally under-utilized Elizabethan time period – and there’s plenty to enjoy here packed in a small word count.

A favorite at court, Lord Edward Hartley has been carefully plotting his revenge against the odious Sir Thomas Sheldon.  Edward has settled on the idea of kidnapping Sheldon’s virginal young bride-to-be — just long enough to cast the girl’s reputation in doubt.  Edward strikes back at Sheldon, and, in return, the poor innocent escapes the clutches of a man who has already buried two wives.  Naturally the plan goes awry (doesn’t it always?) and Edward discovers he’s kidnapped the girl’s chaperone, Lady Elizabeth Gilbert, by mistake!  Whatever shall they do? ::wink, wink, nudge, nudge::

I read a lot of these Undones, and McCabe always manages to deliver so much story in such a short word count.  This story feels fully fleshed out, with well-developed characters, and an extremely interesting setting.  It also delivers on the sexy sizzle that this line is built around.

That all being said, the declarations of love do come off a bit abrupt (although it helps that the couple knows each other from court), and there are some unanswered questions.  Namely, the fall-out regarding the young, virginal would-be bride, and the villain still needs to be dealt with.  However, the curtain falls nicely on the romance, and the author leaves the door open to return to this world (and her villain) with a future release.  All in all, good show!

Grade: B

Summary:

London, 1589

Lord Edward Hartley plans to get revenge against Sir Thomas Sheldon, the man who destroyed his brother, by stealing Sheldon’s intended bride. Standing in his way is Lady Elizabeth Gilbert, the girl’s chaperone and a reputed paragon of virtue.

Yet Edward cannot help but notice the sensual longing in her eyes. He is sure that her cool exterior conceals a passion waiting to be set free. And when Edward kidnaps Elizabeth by mistake, neither can resist unleashing their desire….

No Excerpt Found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Pleasured By The Viking by Michelle Willingham
Historical Romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Aug 10

Michelle Willingham’s medievals tend to really work for me.  The fact that this short story features a secondary character from last year’s Surrender to an Irish Warrior, a book that landed on my personal Best Of 2010 reading list?  Yeah, I was expecting good things.  Unfortunately, while competently written, there’s fall-out from the happy-ever-after that didn’t work for me at all.

Auder Ó Reilly has agreed to marry a Norman baron in the hopes of protecting her mother and securing peace for her struggling clan.  Besides it being no love match (she’s never met the man!) Auder is concerned she will displease her husband when it comes to martial relations.  She dispensed of her virginity ages ago, it naturally wasn’t very good, so she thinks she’s “bad” at s-e-x.  She confides this bit of news to Viking warrior and friend, Gunnar Dalrata.  Gunnar makes her various girly bits tingle, but he’s currently pitching woo with a widow.  Little does she know that Gunnar is finding himself increasingly distracted by her presence as well!

The basic idea behind this story worked pretty well for me, but it’s the inclusion of the widow that Gunnar is currently spending time with that throws a wrench in the entire romance for me.  Gunnar comes off as a guy juggling two women, which isn’t exactly an endearing quality in a “hero.” Then there is the fact that in order for our couple to be together, someone has to be thrown under the bus – and guess who that is?  Yeah, the widow.

For her part, the author doesn’t fall into the all-too-common (and annoying) trap of making the “other woman” eviiiiiil.  Also, there’s a wonderful sense of place and time period here.  The widow’s outcome feels authentic, and the author does spin it in a way to suggest that the widow isn’t really getting that screwed over…but it still leaves a bad taste in my mouth.  It also leaves me not feeling very “happy” for our romantic couple.

Grade: D

Summary:

Ireland, 1181

To secure peace for her clan and protection for her mother, chieftain’s daughter Auder Ó Reilly agrees to marry a powerful Norman baron. Though she desperately hopes the alliance will work, Auder worries she won’t be able to please her husband in the marriage bed—a fear she admits to her friend, handsome Viking Gunnar Dalrata. Auder has no difficulty imagining sensual delights with Gunnar, but she doesn’t believe he would ever think of her that way. Until the night of Bealtaine, when Gunnar whisks Auder away to introduce her to the true pleasure of making love….

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of The Perfect Concubine by Michelle Styles
Historical Romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Feb 11

Of late, my quality of reading material has been more than a little lacking.  One lackluster story after another is leaving me twitching for something entertaining, and non-frustrating, to read.  Bless Michelle Styles’ heart – turns out she has the solution.  All I needed to do is travel back in time to ancient Rome!

Valeria is a desperate woman.  Her family has fallen on hard times, and now there is word that her missing brother might be alive and well, living in North Africa.  She’s determined to find him, but it means finding a man crazy enough to set sail when the weather is all wrong for such a venture.  When every other option dissolves, she’s left with Piso the Greek, the one man brave (and crazy) enough to say yes.  The fly in the ointment?  Piso and Valeria share a past, one rife with pain, heartache, and betrayal.

Piso, once a common sailor, is now a very wealthy man.  However, he’s still bitter over what he construes as Valeria’s betrayal.  So it’s partly for that reason, along with the fact that he’s never gotten over her, that he agrees to help her – on one condition.  She becomes his concubine.

Now, admittedly, this sounds a tad unsavory.  And it would have been had it not been for the heartbreaking back-story.  It’s easy to understand why Piso is so angry.  It’s easy to understand the choices Valeria felt she had to make.  The conflict stems from Piso not knowing exactly what poor Valeria has had to endure.

I suspect some readers will find this short story a bit rushed, and certainly it could have been longer given the emotional angst the characters have had to endure.  However, it also probably could have gotten a bit tiresome as a longer read, given Piso’s animosity and that the reason for it is because of a lack of communication.  As is, I think it’s just about right.  Now to hunt up the connected book, Sold & Seduced, to add to the ol’ TBR.

Grade: B

Summary:

Rome, 68 B.C.

Valeria’s life is in the hands of Piso the Greek—the very man who had risen from a common sailor to wealthy ship owner following their doomed romance. He is the only man brave enough to sail the dangerous seas to Alexandria to reunite Valeria with her missing brother and restore her family’s fortune. But Piso demands a high price for his help: Valeria must become his concubine and share his bed once more….

No Excerpt Found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Her Midnight Cowboy by Lauri Robinson
Historical Western Romance short story ebook published by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Nov 10

My recent reading has been a bit on the lackluster side, and they all happened to be contemporaries.  So I figured, why not read something historical and short?  Oooooh, and a western!  Surely that will kick-start my flagging mojo!  Yeah, not so much.  Bugger.

Angel Clayton is a pampered Daddy’s princess that knows what she wants – and what she wants is none other than Rowdy McGuire.  The problem is, that no matter what she tries – Rowdy just won’t catch a clue.

Oh, Rowdy has gotten the message.  Loud and clear.  However, he’s staying as far away as he can because Angel is The Boss’s Daughter.  Rowdy is a drifter and ranch hand, which means no matter how you crunch the numbers, it all adds up to Angel being way out of his league.

Part of the problem with this story is largely my fault.  Generally speaking, I am not a fan of Heroine In Pursuit themes, because the heroine tends to come off as needy and desperate.  Add to the mix that Angel is a Virginal Heroine In Pursuit, and, well, it’s really not my scene.

However, just because something isn’t “my thing,” doesn’t mean it won’t be some other reader’s “thing.”  Ultimately though, this is a hard story for me to recommend because of the historical feel, or lack thereof.  The problem comes in the form of Angel’s Daddy and stepmother.  Self-indulgent parents are a dime a dozen in the genre, but these two take the cake!  Yes, the West was different – but not that different.  Especially when you factor in that Daddy owns a successful ranch and Angel doesn’t want for anything.  Society rules and social mores should have definitely been at play here – and they’re just flat-out ignored.  Dude, I can bend for the sake of fiction, but not that much.

I love the Undone line, but I’m still waiting for a western short that really cooks for me.  I was hoping this would be the one, but alas the answer is still no.

Grade: D

Summary:

Eastern Wyoming, 1884

In Angel Clayton’s opinion, men don’t get any finer than hired hand Rowdy McGuire. The very thought of him makes her ache with need—and the sight of his golden, glistening skin only makes it worse. She knows he feels their bodies’ magical, intense pull towards one another, even if the honorable cowboy refuses to admit that a drifter and a ranch owner’s daughter could ever be together.

But Angel is determined to get what she wants—and she wants Rowdy!

No Excerpt Found.

Sandy M’s review of by Slow Ride (Rough Riders, Book 9.5) by Lorelei James
Contemporary Western Romance short story ebook published by Samhain 9 Nov 10

Hardly anyone can tease her characters or her readers better than Lorelei James. Of course, depending on where the teasing is going on depends on the reaction you’ll get. We met Jack and Keely in their book, All Jacked Up, earlier this year, and I had been anticipating Keely’s book for a while. She’s the only female in a horde of brothers, all of whom are very dominant, alpha, sexy, the whole nine yards. She was also a wild child character when she showed up in the previous books in this series. So you can imagine the curiosity about Keely when she meets her match, finally, in Jack. That was a fun, fevered, and sensual ride. This time Jack has in mind a long, slow ride for his new wife, but he’s in for a surprise of his own.

It’s just like Keely to be impatient to get on with living, and wanting her own wedding reception to be over with so she can toss off her boots and rumple the sheets with Jack is so Keely. She even tries to make things easier for them in the long run by divesting herself of as many wedding clothes as possible, but instead she runs into Cord and AJ going at it like rabbits, which doesn’t help her overanxious self in its current situation.

And her new husband isn’t helping either. He’s made all the honeymoon plans and hasn’t told her one dadgum thing he has in mind. The man thinks he’s being romantic, but he’s already forgotten one of the most important things he loves about his wife. No secrets, no calling the shots without her. They’re in this life together and he’d be better off remembering that.

As much as Jack has enjoyed, reveled, and just plain old had a good time in all of their sexual encounters before their marriage, he wants their first time as husband and wife to be perfect. Hence his strategy in secretly planning their two weeks alone. But after two days of traveling and keeping his horny Keely at bay – which is killing him just as much – Jack gets a surprise when things don’t go as planned once they have ocean, beach, and sunsets before them for the taking.

The teasing thus far for both Jack and Keely, doesn’t end as you’d expect, and the reader gets some teasing all their own at the resolution these two come up with in the end. It’s actually a perfect ending for this newly married couple.

Even in so few pages, Ms. James still pull a variety of emotions out of you. I will never get tired of reading about this family, whether in fun and laughter, anger, or tragedy, or whether they’re workin’ up a sweat and gettin’ me all hot and bothered, these McKays are lodged in my heart and are there to stay.

Oh! Slow Ride is a free ebook right now, so be sure to get your copy soon!

Grade: A

Summary:

Keely McKay Donohue is enduring the longest wedding reception of her life: her own.

The only saving grace is that Jack Donohue is finally hers. Usually her hunky man gives her everything she wants, so why is her groom denying her the one thing she wants right now?

Jack thought his secretive wait-for-the-honeymoon plan was romantic, until he realizes he’s only put Keely in a fighting mood. If he wants to get back on his temperamental bride’s good side, he’d better find a way to sweep his cowgirl off her boots…fast.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s Quick Quack Reviews of Three Spice Briefs by Eden Bradley, Riki Kaye and Ruthie Michaels
Erotic romance and erotica ebook short stories released by Spice Briefs Feb – May 2010

There’s nothing like reading “short” for deluding myself into thinking that I’m actually making progress on my Harlequin e-book backlog.  Also, I figure since Harlequin keeps publishing the naughty Spice Briefs line, that I cannot possibly be the only one who has a minor addiction to buying them.  Oh, and reading them.  I might be willing to concede that I have a problem, but how can reading these tasty morsels be anything other than right?

Night Moves by Eden Bradley
Erotic romance ebook short story released 1 May 10

Kate’s got a thing for trains.  I mean, our girl really has a thing for riding (tee hee) the rails.  She tends to travel at night, waits for everyone to get tucked in, and then she scurries off to a private place to uh…take matters in her own hands.  Although this time around she finds her erotic moment of self-love interrupted by sexy surfer dude, Ian.  Oh my.  Whatever shall they do?

What we have here is the ol’ Hot Sex With A Hot Stranger trope.  The author makes it sizzle, incorporating two characters who are intelligent, willing to make small talk, and succumb to the spontaneity of the moment.  The resolution to this story felt a bit rushed to me, but the author ends this tale on an upbeat note.  I was left wanting more, which in the case of an erotic short story, is not necessarily a bad thing.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Something about trains had always brought out Kate’s wild side. So far it had been her own dirty little secret—until a sexy stranger catches her sneaking into his compartment looking to indulge her fantasy. But instead of throwing her out, Ian is turned on…and he’s ready to give Kate the ride of her life!

No Excerpt Found

Special Delivery by Riki Kaye
Erotic romance ebook short story released 1 Apr 10

Michael has been pulling long hours at the office, and when he gets home in the evenings he has no energy left for his wife.  Megan is starting to find this pattern of behavior annoying, and eventually decides it’s time to take matters into her own hands.  So she dons a skimpy outfit, grabs a pizza, and heads to hubby’s office for a lunch time quickie.

While Spice Briefs aren’t necessarily known for being “sweet” – this story kinda is.  Michael has been Megan’s one and only lover, and while she adores sex, she’s never been much of an instigator.  Her showing up at the office is definitely something new, and Michael?  Well, Mikey likes it.  A lot.  A quick sizzling read about a happily married couple who have hit a bump in the bedroom road.

Grade: B

Summary:

With her husband’s busy work schedule, Megan barely got a chance to have dinner with her husband, let alone make love. After three long weeks with no sex, she’s had enough. It’s time to take matters into her own hands…by visiting his office dressed as a sexy delivery girl and giving him a lunch break he’ll never forget…

No Excerpt Found

Tuscan Freedom by Ruthie Michaels
Erotica ebook short story released 1 Feb 10

Lily is in a rut, so when her college BFF, Gianna, asks her to come visit her in Italy, she’s all for it.  When she gets to Gianna’s villa who should she discover but two very sexy, and eager young men.  And wow – Gianna sure looks happy.  Wonder what that’s all about?  Ha!

Of my recent Spice Briefs reads, this one was definitely the naughtiest.  Lily has herself a grand ol’ time thanks to Gianna’s “hospitality” and the author pretty much explores all the options that two guys and two girls could possibly partake in.  However, this is very much a fantasy-laden read.  Readers looking for examination into multiple partner relationships, or those who need those safe sex moments in their erotic stories, are probably not going to be all that fulfilled here.  But it firmly fit my “erotica as fantasy” requirements, and Michaels certainly delivers with the sizzle.

Grade: B

Summary:

Lily’s normal life was dull and unchallenging—and seriously lacking in exciting sex! But when she goes on vacation in Italy, Lily finally feels free to explore a whole new side of herself…with the help of her hostess, Gianna. Before her trip is over, Lily will experience things she never imagined—such as a scandalous tryst with a stranger, a night of pleasure with her fellow houseguests, and so much more….

No Excerpt Found

Sandy M’s review of One Weekend by Sasha White
Erotic Short Story published by Samhain 5 Apr 10

Because of  one of a reader’s favorite saying — too many books, not enough time — I’ve not not read a huge amount of Sasha White’s books as of yet. That’s not for a lack of want either. The few I have read to date I’ve enjoyed. She’s one of those authors for me who can do most anything and I will end up enjoying it. That definitely happened in One Weekend, especially because I’ve become super picky when it comes to reading menages or m/m stories. Most don’t make the grade for me, but Ms. White has the touch in this short story.

Rick and Mark are best friends, but since Rick and Angie became a couple, Mark only hangs with them now and again. He’s visiting when Angie comes home after work one scorching day. She strips down to her undies before she realizes Rick is not alone on the patio where it’s cool on that hot summer evening. Shrugging, she walks out to join the guys, and the night suddenly gets hotter.

All three of these characters are sexually adventurous, so when talk turns toward Mark joining Rick and Angie in their bed sport for the weekend, they all go for it. A weekend for the three of them has never been hotter. Ms. White makes them sizzle right off the page. But then she goes even further.

I didn’t think I’d like the direction the story was going when it sunk in where Ms. White was heading with Rick and Mark. But I have to say, because she made them really like them first, that made all the difference when Angie gets worked up thinking about the two men together and then seeing it in reality. I didn’t think the sex in these few pages could get any hotter. I was flat out wrong.

And that’s all I’m going to say. It works. Find out if you’re as adventurous as Angie. She’s having the time of her life and then some. I’m glad I joined her. You may too.

Grade: B

Summary:

Three lovers. Two days. One bed…

Angie Wilson is a lucky girl. She loves her job, her life, and her man, Rick Craig. What red-blooded woman wouldn’t revel in the attentions of a good-looking, athletic boyfriend who’s secure enough to encourage her most adventurous appetites?

One of the worst heat waves in memory has hit town, and by Friday Angie is ready to really let loose. Craig and his best friend, Mark, are chilling on the patio with cold beer when she gets home from work, and the three get comfortable. As the night moves on and the talk turns to sex, Angie longs for more than just cool air on her bare skin.

And the heat’s making her just crazy enough to go for it…

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Innocent In the Harem by Michelle Willingham
Historical Romance short story ebook released by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 June 10

If you are a reader predisposed to disliking the captive trope, Michelle Willingham’s latest short story for the Harlequin Historical Undone line isn’t likely to change your mind. But for readers who can roll with the plot, given the right set of circumstances? The author avoids some of the more obvious pitfalls and delivers a quick, tasty read.

Prince Khadin has been summoned back to his father’s palace for what he fears will be bad news. Oh, namely his execution. He has troubles enough without getting wrapped up with some Bedouin princess turned slave girl, but that he does. After witnessing Laila’s failed escape attempt during a slave auction, he immediately purchases her, saving her from a far worse fate. Now all he has to do is convince her of that.

The obvious land mine to avoid with captive stories is “forced seduction,” which is (blessedly) not present here. Khadin gives Laila a choice. Admittedly, not much of one – but a choice nonetheless. I’ll admit that I like my characters to have free will, and it’s in pretty short supply here. That said, while Laila’s choices might not be all that grand, Khadin wants her willing, or not at all. And certainly while the power element to their relationship is a wee bit lop-sided, the author evens the playing field somewhat by having the hero fear for his own life. It’s not like everything is sunshine and roses for this guy either!

The author handles the setting well, using some real history as a nice backdrop, while tweaking things enough to deliver a highly readable short story. It’s sexy, quick and a snappy read – which is what I want out of the Undone line. Certainly the plot isn’t going to wind every reader’s watch, but for those hungry for harem stories, this one is worth a look.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Ottoman Empire, 1565

Prince Khadin knows his days are numbered. His death could come at any moment, but even he cannot help but be distracted by the Bedouin princess he sees making a daring bid for freedom from the slave market. Even in captivity, her courage and purity attract Khadin to her as much as her beauty. Unable to resist the temptation, he takes the maiden back to the palace harem—to be brought to him at night….

Read an excerpt.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Erotique: Alex (Erotique #3) by Susan Lyons
Erotic romance short story ebook released by Spice Briefs 01 March 2010

I know they can be frustrating for a lot of readers, but I love short stories.  Sometimes all I want is a tasty morsel, a quick read to occupy me on my lunch break, and if it’s spicy?  All the better.  This third story in Susan Lyons’ Erotique series for Spice Briefs certainly provides the sizzle, although this morsel wasn’t an entirely satisfying experience.

Alex Blake is an erotic romance writer who has discovered that inspiration has left the building.  She’s completely tapped out.  The words aren’t coming, and her work-in-progress isn’t all that sexy.  Her readers expect sexy.  She suspects it might have something to do with the fact that she’s been celibate for going on a year.  No sexy in Alex’s real life apparently means no sexy in her fiction either.  That’s when she spies the invitation she received from the exclusive sex club, Erotique.  Alex figures, what the heck?  So she fires off an e-mail detailing her fantasy, and who should she find once she arrives on the premises?  None other than unrequited former crush, Lincoln Wolf.  Oooh la la!

One thing I enjoy about the Spice Briefs line is that there really is something for every erotica and erotic romance reader.  This series by Lyons, while certainly hot, are what I consider stories for erotic romance newbies.  Or those readers who like spice, but don’t want to wade through a ton of kink.  Like the previous installments, the author sticks with a monogamous relationship (no multiple partners) and delivers a happy ending.

However, I did have a few quibbles with this particular story that keep me from recommending it enthusiastically.  For one thing, the back-story of how Alex and Lincoln met may squirk out some readers.  Alex was a student teacher (at 22) and Lincoln was a student (at 19).  Certainly, that is not a major age difference, and they did not have a sexual relationship with each other during this time period, but yes, it did give me pause.  Also, I had an issue with how safe sex was handled in this story, especially given that Alex and Lincoln haven’t seen each other in 10 years.  There is trusting and then there is stupid.

On the surface though, this story had it’s moments and it definitely fits a niche within the erotic romance reading community.  If you’re looking for hot, but aren’t ready to completely cross over to the dark side?  Maybe this series is what you’ve been looking for.

Grade: C

You can read reviews for the other stories in this series by following the series tag.

Summary:

The best inspiration for Alex Blake’s erotic novels used to be her forbidden—and unfulfilled—lust for Lincoln Wolf. But years later Lincoln, and her muse, are long gone. To rekindle her imagination, Alex takes up an invitation to visit Erotique, a private sex club that guarantees anonymity…and a chance to act out one of Alex’s most ravishing desires. While Alex expects one fantasy, Erotique has another surprise for her: satisfying her ultimate fantasy of a night of passion with Lincoln himself….

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of The Captain’s Wicked Wager by Marguerite Kaye
Historical romance ebook short story released by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Nov 2009

What makes a story work, or not work, for a reader, often comes down to a simple matter of timing.  This short story by Marguerite Kaye has been languishing on my Sony Reader for months now.  Life got busy, other obligations came forward, and it kept getting pushed aside.  If I had any inkling that it was set during the Georgian period, I have no doubt I wouldn’t have neglected it for so long!  It’s been ages since I’ve read a romance set during this time period, and this sexy short story hit the spot.

Isabella “Belle” Mansfield needs money, and needs it fast.  So she powders her hair, dons the nicest gown she can find, musters up some courage, and is letting it all ride at one of London’s most notorious gambling establishments.  However, the sheer size of her bets are giving the matron some pause.  She doesn’t have time to nickle-and-dime her way through the evening.  She needs to win bets, large bets, and fast.

Captain Ewan Dalgleish spies the breathtaking Isabella, is immediately intrigued, and tells the house that he is willing to cover her bets.  When her luck runs out, Ewan proposes another wager.  He’ll let her keep her money, and in exchange she must spend the next three nights with him, each evening resting on a roll of the dice.  Whomever wins the roll, will get to decide just how their evening will be spent.

This is a fairly conventional set-up, featuring the well-worn trope of the desperate heroine who enters into a wager with the hero, because honestly, she has very limited options.  It’s a plot that sings here because the author excels by writing anticipation.  The desire, and lust, that both characters feel for each other practically leaps off the page, and while this is a short story, I never felt like any of their encounters were rushed or rushed into it.  It was sexy and tantalizing!

What doesn’t work so well is the time frame.  The Harlequin Historical Undone line adheres the traditional romantic happily-ever-after, and for readers to buy into the one in this story, they need to be able to roll with the time table.  Hero and heroine do not know each other previous to meeting in the first couple of pages.  They spend two days, and three nights together, before declaring that they’re perfect for each other, want to spend their lives together, and admit their undying love.  Certainly, some readers are going to be able to roll with this, and some just flat-out aren’t.  I’m definitely not a love-at-first-sight kind of girl, but given the sizzle of the sexual encounters, and the anticipation factor that the author writes so well into the story?  It worked for me here.  It wasn’t perfect mind you, but I’m not left with the sinking filling that this relationship is on a slow boat to doom either.

This was a sexy, sizzling read, set against the exciting backdrop of Georgian London, post American Revolution.  Kaye appears to be a relatively new face in the Mills & Boon/Harlequin universe, and if this short story is any indication, I can’t wait to see what she can do with a full-length story.

Grade: B

Summary:

Captain Ewan Dalgleish was as famous for breaking society’s rules as for his daring exploits on the battlefield. Yet nothing could truly satisfy his need for excitement…until he laid eyes on beautiful Isabella Mansfield at the gaming saloon, staking her future on a turn of the cards. Her enticing combination of sensuality and haughtiness intrigued him as much as his notorious reputation interested her. So when Belle loses the money she so obviously needs, Ewan can’t resist making a scandalous wager: that in return for her money, she must spend three nights with him, each starting with the roll of the dice…and ending however the winner chooses…

No excerpt found.

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Wedding Night With The Ranger by Lauri Robinson
Historical western romance short story ebook  released by Harlequin Historical Undone 01 Feb 2010

I’ve been known to whine about the fact that the historical western sub genre is flourishing in the Christian/Inspirational market, while in secular corners it’s still an endangered species.  What was it that struck me most about Lauri Robinson’s short story, the first western to be published by Harlequin Historical Undone?  How “un-inspirational” it was.  I mean, hello?  A man of the cloth is the villain!

Former Texas Ranger, now rancher, Colt Severson, has just gotten himself married to Annalee Sapp, a young lady he’s been half in love with for the past three years.  He never came calling because of the belief that he’s not “good enough” for the likes of her.  Her entire life seems to be wrapped up in helping the local townspeople, along with the pious reverend.  Then, thanks to her scheming Daddy, Colt gets his fondest wish granted.  He and Annalee marry, and wanting to give her some time to adjust to the idea, he heads off to the local saloon for a drink.  He was prepared for her not being all that happy with this turn of events, but he sure as heck didn’t think she’d barge into the saloon brandishing a shotgun!

Annalee has been desperately in love with Colt for the past three years.  However, she is trapped.  Trapped under the thumb of the pious reverend, and trapped in the knowledge that she doesn’t have a chance in Hell of catching the eye of Dodge City’s most eligible bachelor.  Now her Daddy has interfered and Colt is forced to marry her!  Yes, it’s what she’s always wanted, but she is sick with the knowledge that Colt only married her because he “had to.”

What follows is a classic Big Misunderstanding.  Both Annalee and Colt are crazy for each other, but both of them think they forced the other one into marriage.  This part of the conflict is actually wrapped up fairly quickly, and it’s nice that this was a short story, because this aspect isn’t dragged out ad nauseam.

On the other hand, the short story format gives the rest of this tale a half-finished feel.  Annalee’s father actually plays a healthy role in this story – entirely off-page.  We never meet the man!  Then there is the local reverend, who serves as the villain.  He has an obligatory appearance, but he’s all bark, with no bite.  It gives credence to this reader’s theory that this may have started out as a longer novella, and was chopped down to fit the word count of the Undone line.

I was most surprised by the tone of the story, which gives us a reverend villain, and a heroine who is desperate to escape the dull existence of endless charity work.  A heroine who hates charity work!  Granted, this makes her seem a tinch selfish, but dang, it was kind of refreshing to read about a romance heroine who wants her own life, and not be at the constant beck-and-call of others.

This is a quick, decent read, that kept me entertained on my lunch break.  The prose definitely tends to run purple during the love scenes, and while the short format hindered the role of the heroine’s father and villain, there was enough here to keep me turning the pages.  It didn’t light my world on fire, but there was enough memorable here for me to consider reading more Lauri Robinson in the future.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Dodge City, Kansas. 1880.

Texas Ranger-turned-rancher Colt Severson received plenty of advice on how to handle his wife on their wedding night—but not on what to do if she pointed a shotgun at him!

For Annalee Sapp, becoming Colt’s bride was both a nightmare and a dream come true. The handsome rancher was the perfect husband, if only he hadn’t been tricked into marrying her! He’d be stunned to learn of all the scandalous thoughts she had about him….. But once their wedding night arrives, it’s only a matter of time before their passion explodes…and the truth about their impulsive marriage is revealed!

No excerpt found.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade: B-

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

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

No excerpt found.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade: B-

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

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

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Erotique: Jillian (Erotique #2) by Susan Lyons
Erotic romance short story ebook released by Spice Briefs 1 Feb 10

I was pleasantly surprised by the first story in Susan Lyons’ new erotic short story trilogy for Spice Briefs, so I happily settled in to read book two on my lunch break.  While it wasn’t without charm, sadly it didn’t work nearly as well for me.  Mostly because I found myself unwilling to suspend my disbelief in regards to the heroine’s work place relationships.

Jillian just helped land a big account at work, and she’s ready to unwind.  She’s thinking bubble bath, a naughty novel and a glass a wine.  However her boss, Carrie (the heroine from book one Erotique: Carrie) has another suggestion.  She gives Jillian a guest pass to the exclusive private sex club she belongs to.  Since the club caters to all sorts of fantasies, Jillian figures why not?  Little does she know that her boss has also given a guest pass to their sexy colleague Sandro Rodriguez.  Both Jillian and Sandro are very hot for each other, but she’s been putting on the breaks because of a past disastrous relationship with a former colleague.  Nope, our girl has learned her lesson.  No more mixing business with pleasure.  Sigh, but now here she is with hunky Sandro in a sex club.  Whatever shall she do?

When reading erotic stories, I’m usually pretty good at shutting reality out and going with the fantasy.  However, I just couldn’t do it this time.  Carrie is Jillian’s boss, and unlike a lot of boss/employee relationships in Romance Novel Land, these two aren’t best buddies.  It’s strictly a working relationship, and yet Carrie just blithely hands over a guest pass to a sex club?  Hello?!

Then there’s the fact that Jillian is gun-shy about getting naked with Sandro because of a past relationship with a former coworker.  Yeah, her ex?  Spread it around the office that Jillian was a “sex maniac” because she liked to have a lot of sex.  Ohhhhhkay then.  It’s entirely possible that the men I know in real life are a pack of drooling deviants, but this one strained.  And frankly if he was gossiping about her sexual preferences at work, why exactly did she not sue his ass for sexual harassment?

The erotic elements of this story are nice, steamy and vanilla – sure to please readers who don’t want to wade through a river of kink to get their kicks.  I also suspect it will work a lot better for those readers who can more successfully shut out reality than I apparently can.

Grade: C

Summary:

Jillian had been careful not to combine her personal and professional lives…even if that meant turning down a date with her sexy colleague Sandro Rodriguez. Still, she was in the mood for some fun and couldn’t resist a guest-pass to the private sex club Erotique from her boss, Carrie. Jillian hoped to relieve her cravings with a hot guy who understood how to tease and arouse her—but she never expected that man to be Sandro! And he was determined to show her just how fun mixing business with pleasure could be….

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

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

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

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

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

Grade: B

Summary:

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

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

Wendy the Super Librarian‘s review of Seducing a Stranger by Christine Merrill
Historical romance short story ebook released by Harlequin Historical Undone 1 Nov 09

Sometimes all it takes is a shorter format to make me more tolerant of certain storylines.  If Seducing a Stranger had been a full-length Harlequin Historical, it probably would have gotten on my nerves.  However as a short read that I zipped through on my lunch break?  It hit the spot.

Victoria Paget was a faithful, dutiful wife who followed her soldier husband to the battlefields of Europe.  When he is killed, she returned home to England, a young widow with many questions.  Her husband had voiced concerns about Timothy Godfrey, a Lieutenant in his unit.  When the entire regiment is killed and only Timothy survives, it’s easy for Victoria to become suspicious.  Is it possible that Lt. Godfrey was a French spy that led her husband to his death?  Determined to ferret out the truth, she discovers he’s a patron of a certain brothel.  With some help, she makes plans to meet him there under the guise of being one of the new girls.

When Timothy enters the brothel he is shocked to discover Victoria Paget.  Between the stories that Captain Paget told about his wife, and the miniature he carried with him, Timothy was more than a little envious.  He half fell in love with her, even though they had never met.  He wanted to speak with Victoria after her husband’s death, but she quickly left for England and he was transferred to a different regiment – only to return home to England shortly thereafter thanks to his own battlefield injury.  But now that he has Victoria in his sights, he’s not letting her get away.

What follows is the classic Big Misunderstanding plot.  Timothy thinks Victoria has fallen on hard times after her husband’s death (why else is she in a brothel?) and being the gallant, valiant sort, is determined to protect her.  Victoria thinks that Timothy is a traitorous scum bag who led her husband to his death, but she’s quickly having doubts.  Not only does this man stir her passions, but he certainly doesn’t act or live like someone in cahoots with the enemy.

Naturally it all eventually comes tumbling out, in no small measure thanks to the lust shared between both characters.  The Undone line promises spicy love scenes, and the author certainly delivers!

At the end, all is right with the world, although I was a little surprised how quickly Timothy forgives Victoria for her deception.  Oh, who am I kidding?  Just the fact that these two didn’t come from money and weren’t titled had me halfway sold on this story before I even started it.

That said, if you have an extreme displeasure for the Big Mis, this one will probably irritate.  But for this reader, it was just right.

Grade: B

Summary:

Though Lieutenant Tom Godfrey had never met Victoria Paget, he desired her. The late Captain Paget’s stories of his wife—and her portrait—were enough to arouse his envy…and his lust. Now Tom’s returned from the peninsula—and never expected to find the young widow in a bawdy house!

Necessity had brought Victoria to the house of ill repute: it was the only place she could confront Tom, whom she suspected was responsible for her husband’s death. But when she meets the virile soldier, his gallantry and her body’s passionate response to him take her completely by surprise.

What started as a one-night seduction may lead to much more…but will they still have a future when all their secrets are revealed?

No excerpt found.