Sandy M’s review of Sunrise with a Notorious Lord (Lords of Vice, Book 4) by Alexandra Hawkins
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks 3 Jan 12

These Lords of Vice only get more and more interesting as the series goes on. Each man is so different from the other, with only their sin in common. They make sexy and sinful feel like satin sheets you want to roll around in until you’re sated and exhausted. And then there’s that tender side of them, the humorous side, the protective side, even the fiery and explosive side. But when it’s all for his heroine, well, sexy and sinful take on a rather different tone. I’d love to be wrapped up in any one of these men, to be the recipient of such devotion. And sin.

Isabel has been the lady of the house since her father’s death and her mother’s incapacity to get beyond her grief. So when fate smiles on her and her sister, Delia, in meeting a lady of the ton who then invites them to London for the season, Isabel is hopeful, albeit slightly, that Delia might make a good match after all, something the family desperately needs. Delia has other thoughts about marriage, however; she’d rather flirt with every man who steps in her path.

Vane, as the Earl of Vanewright is known to his friends, revels in sin just as the other Lords of Vice, though several of them have settled down recently. There’s too many lovelies and other earthly pleasures to be had for him to ever think of marriage. But when he’s going through a very public breakup with his current mistress, he spies the Thorne sisters in the dressmaker’s shop and moves on to those other pleasures. As beautiful as Delia is, it’s Isabel who garners more interest from Vane, and when she deftly steps in front of the pickpocket who helped himself to Vane’s snuffbox, he’s amazed and irritated she would take such a chance. But she’s all the more fascinating for it.

Thus begins Vane’s attempt to woo Isabel into his bed and her attempt to marry him to her sister. But then Isabel finds her attraction to Vane hard to resist, especially with his onslaught of attention. Plus, her role in his life is not all it seems to be, so how will he react when he finds out what she’s done? Vane takes a little longer to realize his feelings go just as deep. He can’t figure out why it is this particular woman seems so much more to him than any other woman or mistress he’s ever had. I enjoyed watching these two come to the same conclusion, starting from very different beginning points. However, it isn’t as easy as all that. They do hit bumps in the road, but they work it out. Except for those fears Isabel has about Vane learning the truth.

Vane does go ballistic. Through all they’ve shared, she’s lied to him. But when he learns her ruse began closer to home, he has to look at her “lies” differently. I like that he works this out on his own, he doesn’t need help or platitudes to know what he feels for Isabel is real. That’s why it hurts so darned much. He realizes he doesn’t need all those other women any longer. All the sin he needs is in one petite package.

While my favorite book in the series is still Till Dawn with the Devil, Vane is a very close second, despite no deep-seated tragedy or the like in his past. But I have a feeling that both of those may lose their standing to either of the next books, most especially Frost. There’s just something about that man. It’s probably his total devil-may-care attitude, what-have-I-got-to-lose look at life. He takes sin to a whole new level, and I am very anxiously looking forward to his story.

Grade: A

Summary:

FOREVER THE BACHELOR

Christopher Courtland, Earl of Vanewright—known around London as “Vane”—is the very picture of a rich, handsome ladies’ man. Why shackle himself to just one lady when he’s free to sample them all? In spite of his own mother’s attempts at matchmaking, Vane has sworn to stay single. Until he has a chance run-in with Miss Isabel Thorne…

NEVER IN LOVE—UNTIL NOW…

A modest and refined beauty, Isabel is a lot more brazen than she appears. When a pickpocket tries to make way with Vane’s bejeweled snuffbox, Isabel attempts to thwart his escape…and manages to steal Vane’s heart. But the harder he tries to seduce the sharp-tongued, strong-willed Isabel, the more she resists. Now it’s up to this tried-and-true bachelor to find a new way to play the game…or risk losing the one woman who’s ever captured his heart.

No excerpt available.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of Secrets to Seducing a Scot (Highland Knaves, Book 1) by Michelle Marcos
Historical Romance published by St. Martins 02 Aug 11

This will be a short review because I feel like there isn’t much to say. It’s an okay story about okay characters.

The romance aspect is really lackluster. There is no tension or build up, Serena and Malcolm just slowly end up wanting to be together with hardly any conflict. I suppose for people who prefer the sweet and light romances this would work, but I am definitely not one of those people. I want to read a love story that gives me butterflies, and Secrets to Seducing a Scot gave me drowsiness.

The little conflict there is has to do with Scotland revolting against England. It’s basically a bunch of angry Scotsman getting riled up and saying they will do something, but by the time anything happens in the story, I was already bored. Every time I put the book down I forgot it, it doesn’t stand out in any way.

If I had to describe it in one word it would be boring. I kept waiting for action or passion, and Secrets to Seducing a Scot never delivered what I was looking for.

Grade: D+

Summary:

Meet the Highland Knaves, an infamous clan of outcast Scots who live for justice, lust for freedom, and long for lovers bold enough to tame them…

A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

Torn from a pampered life of luxury and thrust into the midst of a Scottish revolution, Serena Marsh is shocked to meet the brutish man who has been assigned to protect her from the rebels trying to kill her—Malcolm Slayter, the most rugged, most dangerous, and most undeniably attractive man she’s ever encountered…

THE KNAVE OF HEARTS

Malcolm has no loyalties, no country, and no sense of propriety. Hired by her father, Malcolm agrees to protect the lovely lass for a fee. But when Serena challenges Malcolm’s authority—and engages him in a risky flirtation—all bets are off. When the battle heats up, it’s anyone’s guess as to who’s seducing whom…and who’ll surrender first.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of Undertow (Cutter Cay Series, Book 1) by Cherry Adair
Romantic Suspense published by St. Martins 28 Dec 10

Part of Undertow I really like, and part of it just makes me exhausted. It’s like one of those action movies that doesn’t know when to quit, but the romance is pretty good so you still watch it anyway.

I really like Teal. She doesn’t wear makeup, doesn’t care much about clothes or girly things. She loves working on engines and she is a strong person. She’s the character that pulls me into the book. I think putting her together with Zane is a really great idea. Zane is carefree, he loves everyone, and he is not shy like Teal. They are a good balance for each other. They aren’t anything alike and I enjoy seeing them come together. The progression of their relationship and of them as characters is the part I really like.

I think the book would have been better as a straightforward contemporary romance. The suspense part is just too much, and after the first round I’m over it.

Zane is getting millions of dollars worth of treasure off of the ocean floor, so, of course, people are going to want to steal it from him. There is a mystery of who it is and then there’s a fight scene with the bad guys. The book is not close to being over at that point, so I’m thinking it would focus more on Zane and Teal after that. I was wrong, and even badder guys come and the story gets weird. There are gunfights, people dying, people racing for their lives, and it seems to all come out of nowhere. Suddenly Teal knows how to make Molotov Cocktails and Zane becomes a badass fighter. It is all just too much and I’m tired thinking about it.

If Undertow was all action then I probably wouldn’t bother reading the next book, but Cherry Adair did a great job of making the characters into real people. And I really enjoyed the whole salvage and diving parts of the book so I am looking forward to reading Riptide.

Grade: B-

Summary:

SHE TAKES THE PLUNGE.

Teal Williams is content with her career as a ship’s master mechanic—until Zane Cutter, the “Casanova of the Caribbean,” makes her an offer she can’t refuse: to climb on board with him for a real-life treasure hunt. Teal must help him dredge up a shipwrecked vessel containing an abundance of gold, silver, and emeralds—and she’ll claim part of the prize.

HE’S BLOWN OFF COURSE.

Zane needs a mechanic—not a lover—and Teal, who can also dive, is perfect for the job.  So it suits him just fine that Teal is completely immune to his charms…or so he tells himself.  But with a deadly enemy in their midst—one who’s silently edging closer—Zane and Teal sink into troubled waters. Trapped in the middle of a perilous sea, they have no one to turn to but each other as they face down a danger that runs unfathomably deep—and a passion that runs even deeper…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of Untamed Highlander (Dark Sword Series, Book 4) by Donna Grant
Paranormal Romance published by St. Martins 26 Apr 11

I have been trying to figure out for days now how to write this review. Hayden and Isla are my favorite couple of the series so far, but I feel their book was cut short.

Isla is my absolute favorite type of heroine. She is alone against the world, trying to prove herself, and I love a character who can overcome their situation. After the previous book, I wanted her with a different warrior. I didn’t think much of Hayden, but he changed my mind in a big way. He doesn’t want to want Isla, but he can’t resist her. Her kind is responsible for the death of his family and he would rather kill all the evil druids than love one. Now that I am actually writing this, they remind me of my one of my top romance couples, so I guess it’s not surprising I enjoy them together so much.

So the characters are great, but my issue came with everything else. I feel almost cheated in a lot of ways. I want more of a resolution to what their problems are. Hayden learns something about Isla that should affect him more than it does. I understand that by then he loves her, but there is this build-up from both of them and then because there is other stuff going on, it is kind of pushed to the side.

Then there is Deirdre, the bad guy. I thought as a villain Deirdre is severely lacking in the previous books. The direction Donna Grant takes with her in this book is interesting and has potential. It doesn’t last though, and it looks like she is right back to her usual self, which just bores me.

Untamed Highlander feels like part one of a book. Not much action happens, I’m left wanting to know more about Isla and her magic, plus I want more of an ending to the romance. As for the ongoing storyline, it’s like it goes nowhere. Nothing really changes from the book before or even the one before that, and if it weren’t for the characters I would have given up on the series. I haven’t yet, though, and I’ll continue to read for the warriors I can’t seem to let go of.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Druid-born and magic-blessed, Isla is one of the deadliest she-devils ever to serve the forces of darkness. As an immortal Highland warrior, it’s up to Hayden Campbell to destroy her and her kind. But for Hayden, Isla is more than a sworn enemy. She is temptation…

Taking Isla captive, Hayden hopes to avenge his kinsmen who died by Druid magic. But when he looks into Isla’s eyes, he sees the secrets of her past. When he touches her skin, he feels the passion in her soul. And soon Hayden comes to realize that this beautiful, beguiling woman is not his enemy at all—she is his destiny. And, even as the forces of darkness conspire against them, their love will conquer all…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

C2’s review of A Beginner’s Guide to Rakes (Scandalous Brides, Book 1) by Suzanne Enoch
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 4 Oct 11

Revenge! Blackmail! Wheeeee! It’s always fun to read about a couple with a history – especially when things ended badly.  And if revenge and blackmail are in the picture? Win!  Heh.

Diane Benchley, Lady Cameron, and her husband fled England under a cloud of debt several years before we meet her.  Diane has been a widow for a few years and finally has returned to London.  She has plans. Plans that, if successful, will keep her from depending on a man for her livelihood ever again.  To bring her plans to fruition she needs the assistance of Oliver Warren, Marquis of Haybury – whether he wants to help or not.

The last person Oliver expects to see in London is Diane Benchley.  When he last saw her, Diane was recently widowed and living in Vienna.  They had a brief fling before he returned to England without a word of farewell.  Not a good way to end things, faithful reader.

Diane has returned to open a gentlemen’s club.  Her original lordly male “helper” was killed in an accident and now she needs to find someone else to help her make sure she has covered all the bases necessary with the club – the right look, the right games, the right feel.  The only person she trusts to assist her is Oliver – not because of any good feelings toward him but because she has a very incriminating letter that would ruin his reputation if it were made public. Blackmail!

Diane is not the same person Oliver knew in Vienna.  She has grown a thick skin and sharp tongue.  He is still attracted to her – although less so when she threatens to publish the letter unless he assists with the club (both financially and in an advisory role).  Of course, Oliver looks for a way to turn things to his advantage, but it isn’t easy. Diane has thought of everything and isn’t falling for his charms a second time.

Naturally, over the course of getting the club ready and establishing it as a real option for the gentlemen of the ton, Oliver and Diane have much more contact than either would have first imagined.  And although both start out looking for weaknesses to exploit, they find they have more than just the club in common and enjoy each other’s company a great deal.

I believed the characters’ growth.  The lessening of Diane’s bitterness over time and Oliver’s realization about why he left Vienna is nicely written.  And the idea of a young widow coming to London and opening a gentlemen’s club – staffed by young women – is an interesting (if unlikely) one.  Of course, it might be completely accurate, historically speaking – what do I know?  As long as I’m entertained and the author makes me believe it, I’m good.

The subplot with Diane’s brother-in-law did nothing for me.  If I have to guess (and I am), I would say it might serve as a basis for Oliver and the Duke of Greaves to become friends again so one of the ladies working at the club might eventually become a duchess.  But again – what do I know?  The idea that several of the club’s employees are young ladies of good birth in bad circumstances is a welcome new twist on the sisters/schoolmates/best pals thread that ties together other series.

A small quibble or two regarding marketing choices – the title seems to have nothing to do with the book. At all. Diane didn’t need a guide to rakes and didn’t provide one to anyone else. Also, throughout the book Diane wears nothing but black, except for two special occasions (when she still wore deep colors) – it’s her thing to be distinctive and stuff, plus she looks good in black. So why is the person on the cover wearing white?? Ah well…

I enjoyed Diane and Oliver’s story and look forward to seeing more of the ladies of the Tantalus Club find their Happily Ever Afters.

Grade:  B

Summary:

All of London is abuzz with the return of the utterly alluring, recently widowed Diane Benchley. Will she remarry? What will she do with her late husband’s fortune? Sociey is shocked by her announcement—at the Grand Ball, of all places!—that she plans to open an exclusive gentleman’s gaming club in the family mansion. But no one is more stunned than the Marquis of Haybury, Oliver Warren.
Years ago, Oliver and Diane shared a private indiscretion. Now Diane threatens to reveal Oliver’s most ungentlemanly secrets…unless he agrees to help her. A notorious gambler—and rake—Oliver is overqualified to educate Diane in the ways and means of running her establishment. But striking a deal with Diane might just be the biggest risk Oliver has ever taken. This time, the only thing he has to lose is his heart…

No excerpt available. ( It appears the author’s website hasn’t been updated since her next most recent book which was published in 2010.)

Ash’s review of Wicked Highlander (Dark Sword Series, Book 3) by Donna Grant
Paranormal Romance published by St. Martin’s 02 Nov 10

So I’ve put this book off for awhile because the first two books didn’t blow me away. Wicked Highlander is much better, and it finally really drew me into the story.

Quinn and Marcail are the more interesting couple of the series so far for me. Though it might just be Quinn, Marcail I could do without sometimes. Even though he’s an immortal Warrior, he is not written like an exaggeration of a person. I think that is what I like most about Wicked Highlander - Quinn is such an easy character to read.

Marcail started off strong, but, sadly, it seems like the more she cares for Quinn, the dumber she gets. I don’t think she has any self-preservation, and I like my heroines to be a little stronger than that. Most of the time she isn’t too bad, though she isn’t as interesting a person as I think Quinn deserves.

Deirdre this time is still more bark than bite to me. She continues to say how powerful she is, but we never really see it. Everyone from the previous books have appearances too, but I’m more interested with what’s going on at the mountain. The side characters, who all seem to have books coming, are another part that have me really into this book. I’m fascinated by all of them and I want to see what happens with them.

The series is getting better book by book and I look forward to the next one. Isla is one of those other characters whose story I’m interested in. I hope the progression continues, because Wicked Highlander has kicked things into gear and that is what I was waiting for.

Grade: B+

Summary:

The most reckless and fierce of the MacLeod brothers, Quinn is a prisoner of the god inside him, tormented by his inability to save his family from slaughter. His fury governs him, and day by day he loses himself to the darkenss in his soul. But Quinn has a profound yearning for a woman’s love….

Raised by Druids, the achingly beautiful Marcail is as spellbinding as the ancient magic that surges through her body. To Quinn, she is most desirable woman he has ever known. But to his enemy Deirdre, she is the perfect bait to lure Quinn into her trap. Once the two lovers are in her wicked grasp, their passion will be put to the ultimate test…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of After Dark with a Scoundrel (Lords of Vice, Book 3) by Alexandra Hawkins
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 1 Feb 11

I love a good scoundrel story, especially when the scoundrel is more than what he seems, has a conscience meter despite what the ton thinks or believes about him. We get to see that other side of him and still enjoy his scoundrel-ness before he gives up all for love. It’s always fun to watch him realize little by little he no longer wants his previous way of life any longer, that that life isn’t worth losing the best thing to ever happen to him. Alexandra Hawkins has given us Dare in this latest edition of her Lords of Vice series. He’s faced with a number of losses in this book, and I enjoyed watching his realizations come to fruition when he least expects it.

Because Regan is the younger sister of Frost, another of the Lords of Vice, she’s grown up unsheltered when it comes to all the goings-on at Nox, the lords’ club. She’s seen it all. The men do protect her when her needed, teach her a host of unorthodox elements of life, along with the ordinary; she’s the sister they never had. It’s during a swimming lesson when all her newly attained womanly assets become apparent to Dare for the first time. He promptly ends the lessons and tries to put distance between them. He’s successful to a point, but years later when Regan is injured during a failed fireworks display, his protective instincts kick in, followed by those of a carnal nature. The next thing they all know, Regan is being sent to a girls’ school, no matter how much she objects and rebels.

Needless to say, it’s the ensuing years that is the most detrimental to Dare and Regan. She’s tired of being kept away from home after years of learning to be a lady, so she takes matters into her own hands and returns to London without Frost’s approval. She has seduction on her mind, and Dare doesn’t stand a chance. He’s lost the moment he sets his eyes on her, even before he knows it’s Regan. Their attraction has survived her absence, and though Dare tries to continue to do the right thing where she’s concerned, there’s no keeping them apart, no keeping them from falling even further for the other.

In between their dance of seduction, we also learn a great deal about Dare and why he’s the man he is. I’m surprised the man has turned out as well as he has considering his family. His loyalty, however, is one of the things I love about him. His honor, as well as that of all the lords, is another. He stands tall and lets Frost have a shot at him when necessary. And when it comes to Regan, Frost is constantly taking a shot at Dare!  But I like that it’s because they are friends that their honor means that much more to them.

I did enjoy Dare’s jealousy when either Regan flirted with another man – even another of Dare’s friends – or someone flirted with her. The poor gent tries to stay away, but near Regan is one place his honor takes a backseat, though he still does what’s necessary despite his refusal and vow not to. Dare is a very sensual and sexual man and Regan brings that out in him. Of course, that’s her aim when she decides to go back to London, and at first she’s not sure whether she’s made a mistake when Dare takes her up on her offers. I still vividly remember their love scene in the library. But it’s a scene later when Frost acknowledges their love to himself, Dare’s protection of Regan, and wonders if they realize the depth of their love. Wonderfully done.

This is an intriguing series and Ms. Hawkins knows just how to pull the best from her characters to make you care for them, love them, get irritated with them, and all those other delicious emotions we romance readers need in our books. There is much more to come in this series and I’m looking forward to every last bit of it.

Grade: A

Summary:

ONE STOLEN KISS

Young, tender, and highly impressionable, Lady Regan can’t help but be intrigued by her brother’s wayward friends—the wickedly charming Lords of Vice. One man in particular, the dashing Lord Hugh Mordare, known simply as “Dare” among the ton, utterly captivates her—in spite of his reputation as a notorious womanizer. But when she steals an innocent kiss from Dare, Regan is swiftly packed off to boarding school, safely away from danger…and desire.

ONE SWEET SEDUCTION

Five years later, Regan returns—a proper lady and ravishing beauty. Miss Swann’s Academy for Young Ladies has taught her how to behave in polite society. But all the training in the world cannot extinguish her love for Dare. Now, she hopes to beat the master of seduction at his own game—by daring Dare to love her in return. This time, both of their hearts are on the line…and winner takes all.

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of Ascension by Caris Roane
Paranormal Romance published by St. Martin’s 28 Dec 10

Where to begin? This book is certainly an experience, one that I find hard to take seriously.

I don’t usually buy new-to-me authors. I bought this book because of the author quotes, something I won’t be doing again. I feel like this was one huge J. R. Ward wannabe. I don’t want to be so mean about it, but that’s all I was thinking as I read it. A group of warriors who are all tortured in some way, a female boss who is super powered, a heroine who changes into a vampire and everyone is all in awe of her and her crazy powers. Oh, and these vampires have wings.

As soon as we are told that these Warriors of the Blood fight in leather kilts and gladiator type sandals, I kind of lost hope. They fight what are called Death Vamps, vampires addicted to dying blood, or in other words, killing humans. I don’t get why the kilt and sandals, everything else is modernized from what I could tell, aside from their swords, of course. Maybe to match their long hair, which is tradition for all the Warriors to have. It’s silly in my head, not sexy, which is what I think the author is going for. The Warriors themselves aren’t all bad, but they are a bit predictable. There is the tortured leader who seems to do nothing but drink. Then there is the ladies’ man, the gentle giant, the disgraced warrior who returns begrudgingly. Let’s not forget our hero, Kerrick, who is still mourning his two dead wives and his dead children 200 years later after the second wife has died. Of course, he can never be with a woman again, since they all die because of him.

The heroine, Alison, has always felt like she didn’t belong and, of course, she doesn’t, because she is a special mortal who will ascend and become a vampire – with wings. I never really felt anything toward Alison. She doesn’t stand out in any positive way. She is also tortured, because she is so powerful she hurts men when she climaxes, therefore she can never be with a man and have the family she longs for. I kept hoping someone would smack her to stop the pity party. She is a therapist, but I think she needs to be in therapy herself.

Alison and Kerrick are soul mates, or rather breh-hedden (oh yeah, the book also has a glossary). Of course, it’s never that simple. At around page 400, and after going through a battle that’s expected, they decide there is no way to be together because Kerrick kills his women and Alison hurts her men. At this point I am seriously mad I paid money for this book, but I did buy it so finish it I will.

There is so much I didn’t even mention. At more than 400 pages long, a lot of eye rolling is involved in the reading of this book. There is the Commander Greaves, who is the bad guy. He wants to rule the world, both dimensions (yes, there’s Mortal Earth and Second Earth and I am still not sure of the difference), but I have no idea why he does. He is just bad because we need a bad guy. Then, listening to Alison after sex while she mentally follows Kerrick’s sperm until it meets her egg and creates a baby in under a minute is just a huge are-you-kidding-me moment.

I might read the next one because the other Warriors are more interesting than Kerrick. I won’t be paying money for it, though.

Grade: D+

Summary:

On The Wings of Desire

Alison Wells is no ordinary woman. Born with super-natural powers, she can never make love to a man without putting him in grave danger. But when her special vision reveals a glorious muscled man soaring overhead on might wings, she feels an overwhelming attraction she cannot resist-even as he tells her “I have come for you. Your blood belong to me.”

In the Heat of Passion

Kerrick is a vampire and a warrior who has fought his hunger for a woman’s love for the past two hundred years. As a Guardian of Ascension, he is sworn to protect Alison from the death vamp armies who crave her blood and her power. But Kerrick has cravings of his own-a forbidden longing to open his heart and veins to Alison. To share his blood…satisfy his thirst…and seal their fates forever.

Read an excerpt here.

Sandy M’s review of Smooth-Talking Stranger (Travis Series, Book 3) by Lisa Kleypas
Contemporary Romance published by St. Martin’s 31 Mar 09

I’ve been wanting to read this book for more than a year now and something has always gotten in the way. But I’ve been keeping it close by lately so that when the right time popped up, I had it handy. Finally all worked out and I got to read about Jack Travis. I’ve been anticipating his story ever since reading tidbits about him in the earlier books of the Travis trilogy. While I love Jack as much as I thought I would, I have a smidgen of disappointment with a couple of other things about the book, however.

Now, I didn’t technically “read” Sugar Daddy and Blue-Eyed Devil. I listened to them in audio format and enjoyed them both immensely, BED a little more than SD. I keep wondering if maybe that has a bit to do with my disappointment in spots while reading STS. I really don’t know.

Jack, of course, is the star of this book for me. He’s right up there with Hardy Cates as my favorites of the trilogy. He’s definitely a ladies’ man, playboy to the core, but when he meets Ella Varner, his whole perspective about women and relationships change. And that’s what I love about him most. Though he has no immediate or even foreseeable future plans to bite the bullet for holy matrimony, he’s the one who is tenacious and goes after Ella full bore, wearing her down with all that sexiness and steamy lovemaking.

My issues with the story is the beginning when we learn about Ella and her family. I realize it’s needed so we see Ella as she is after her childhood. I just felt that along with her sister’s current problems and getting their background interspersed with it all, the first few chapters were just ho-hum as we dredged through their very dysfunctional family, all thanks to their mother. Also, I didn’t like the storyline as well as I did with the previous two books. It’s an okay story, don’t get me wrong. It just doesn’t stand up well to Blue-Eyed Devil and Haven’s amazing life and survival.

Ella does a credible job in the beginning of sticking to her guns for her plans to returning to Austin and her very comfortable boyfriend of eight or so years after three months of looking after her infant nephew, Luke. The poor tyke’s been dropped off, literally, by his mother at his grandmother’s home because that poor excuse of a mom just can’t deal with him and motherhood at the moment. It’s Ella who always steps in and makes things works, and this time is no different. Well, it’s different for Ella. She falls head over heels for Luke and knows her heart will be broken in about ninety days when Tara comes for her son.

Both these ladies have issues due to the way they were raised by their mother. She’s such a lovely piece of work. She had no business having children, which Ella and Tara know and still feel in every fiber of their being even as adults. Ella has her act together more than Tara, thus Tara’s lack of interest in her son, but Ella still has issues when it comes to love. That emotion’s never worked for her, save for Tara and now Luke. So she can do without it, just as she’s done for years now.

But Jack is having none of it. He pours everything between them on so thick from the beginning, Ella doesn’t stand a chance against this man. I didn’t either. He had me from word one, smile one, kiss one. He can do no wrong, per me. He’s definitely smooth. Ella melts and puddles with every touch and caress no matter how it’s delivered. I love Jack’s way of dealing with Dane, Ella’s current but recently out-of-the-picture boyfriend, and every time Ella defended the jerk, I wanted to shake her. But Jack took care of it all in a very Jack-like way.

And while I see how Ella comes out of her self-imposed shell of a life that I read about in the beginning, all because of Jack, it still doesn’t work that well for me. Maybe the combination of finding out about her family and her current situation with Dane is just too much negativity at one time for me – I have this thing about that in my books. And if it’s too much for a reader, you can imagine what Ella’s gone through her entire life. That definitely comes across like nobody’s business.

Besides Jack, what I had fun with is the humor from Ms. Kleypas. She had me laughing out loud a number of times. The first Miss Independent letter we get in the book had me giggling for several minutes. And the way Ella has learned to handle her mother is priceless, especially when keeping the woman away from her and Luke when she’d only stir up trouble. Also, Ella teasing Jack about her yoga legs caused tears due to all the laughter I couldn’t stop.

We meet up with all the previous characters from the series, finding out how they’re doing and what’s going on in their lives. I’m really curious why Joe Travis didn’t get his own book. He’s as charismatic as Gage and Jack and would make a good hero, especially after what he goes through in this book.

So even though I have a disappointment in the way some info is doled out, the overall book is a terrific read, and Jack is everything I’d hoped for. Ella too. Some girls have all the luck.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Ella Varner has it all–a successful career as an advice columnist, a handsome boyfriend, and a circle of friends in Austin. When anyone has a problem, Ella knows the answers.

But one night she receives a call that changes everything. And as Ella’s world is turned upside-down, she meets a man who is the opposite of everything she ever wanted . . . a man who will offer her the most irresistible challenge she has ever known . . .

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

Liviania’s review of Poison Kissed (Shadowfae, Book 3) by Erica Hayes
Urban fantasy/erotica released by St. Martins 28 Sept 10

Erica Hayes’s prose in the Shadowfae novels reminds me of Francesca Lia Block, particularly the Weetzie Bat books.  It’s hallucinatory dreamy and often has a strong sense of rhythm, due to repetition or anaphora or other techniques.  I like it, but she does change up her style a little for each narrator.  Mina, the narrator of Poison Kissed, is more straightforward and thinks more straightforwardly than most of the other characters.

Mina has a fairly simple goal: find the man who killed her mother and kill him.  That and convince her boss Joey to sleep with her.  Joey, unfortunately, misreads all the signs of Mina’s desire as disgust since he’s a snake-shifter and doesn’t go all the way back to human in his bipedal form.  This is the third book Mina and Joey appear in and his inability to see what every other character sees is annoying.  He manages to decide that Mina backing off during a make-out session is because she realized she didn’t want to touch him at all, when really is was just going too fast for her.

In her quest to find her mother’s killer, Mina manages to implicate herself as a traitor to Joey and lose her banshee powers.  This works pretty well to alleviate some of my annoyance with Joey, as he manages to trust Mina quite a bit despite the evidence to the contrary.  Mina also wavers between trusting Joey or not.  It builds the emotional side of their romance fairly well.

Hayes hasn’t sold me on erotica.  The sex is well-described, but most of the sex is either between people who don’t like each other, interrupted, or later regretted.  I think I’d like the sex more if the characters enjoyed it more.

Poison Kissed is my least favorite of the series so far.  Mina and Joey are on the opposite side of the protagonists of the previous two books, who all worked for Kane.  Kane is the demon who controls Melbourne despite all the others who’d like his slice of the pie.  Thus, the Kane storyline, which ties the books together, seemed disconnected from the rest of the action and slowed things down when it interrupted.  Usually, it pushes the rest of the story forward.

I am going to continue reading the Shadowfae series even though I thought Poison Kissed was a weaker entry.  I find the overarching storyline intriguing and I like Hayes’s writing style.  (I was a fan of the Weetzie Bat books as a teenager.)  Okay, and I like fairies.  Hayes’s has done well in shaping a city of supernatural beings who can do almost anything they want since the demon-in-charge wants his people focused on their desires.

Grade: C+

Summary:

Mina is a banshee whose greatest power lies in her siren song. She’s beholden to her boss Joey, a snake-shifter who once saved her life and now employs her as a gang enforcer. She refuses to upset the fragile balance between them by admitting that she longs for him, that his embrace is the only thing she craves more than revenge for her mother’s death…
When Mina learns that Joey may have been involved in her mother’s murder, fury threatens to spill out of her note by vicious note. She and Joey have always trusted each other to stay alive, but now she’s not sure what to believe. The evidence stacked against him—or the one man who haunts her dreams and burns her blood…

Read an excerpt here.

Other books in this series:

Sandy M’s review of Till Dawn with the Devil (Lords of Vice, Book 2) by Alexandra Hawkins
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 3 Aug 10

This is the second book in Ms. Hawkins’ Lords of Vice series, and sometimes second books are a bit of a letdown after a great start by the first out of the gate. Not so in this case. I actually like this book better than the debut of the series, All Night with a Rogue. The characters are intriguing and I really like the storyline behind our hero and, thus, our heroine as it’s unveiled how they are unfortunately connected through tragedy.

Reign is tired of being shunned and gossiped about since his wife’s death years before. Her parents have never believed their daughter accidentally died, that Reign had to have been involved, and they keep the gossip alive. So taking his life back during a ball, a blue-bowed dress catches his fancy. Finally spying the woman and her bows, he finds her in conversation with a nobleman he despises, getting rid of the man in short order to have the beauty to himself.

Nearly losing her sight in an accident when she was very young, Sophia has grown up as normal as possible, considering her disability. Dancing is not one of her favorite things, and when the Earl of Rainecourt ushers her to the dance floor, their encounter goes awry from the beginning. Sophia leaves him behind with a sigh of relief, because of his high-handed behavior and because she knows who he is.

What Reign doesn’t know is Sophia is the lone survivor of the horrible night her parents died at the hands of his father, who then ended his own life. Vowing to keep his distance at his realization, he discovers that’s easier said than done, Sophia is a woman a man just can’t forget.

Unbeknownst to Sohpia, her brother has made marriage arrangements for her, not allowing her to choose her own husband, all to take care of his gambling debts. Refusing to be used in such a way, Sophia turns to Reign instead, the lesser of two evils for her at that point. But that changes very soon.

Reign and Sophia are an intriguing pair. They come together despite their common past, an attraction between them neither can deny. Trust comes early, which is a breath of fresh air, because trust and love usually come very late for heroes and heroines in romance.

Reign thinks he will never marry again, his first wife’s deceit and anger more than enough to entice him to remain single for so long. But Sophia sneaks into his heart before he realizes it; her intelligence and zest for life making him look at her much differently than any other man before. And she just inherently knows he never could have murdered his wife, feels his pain and frustration at how society has viewed him over the incident.

Just when love is in the air, life deals them another blow, and Ms. Hawkins throws in a curve ball you don’t see coming. The intertwining of Reign’s and Sophia’s lives is much more complicated than anyone thought, and it’s a doozy when all is revealed.

TDwtD is a terrific second book in this series. I had it read in a day and then bemoaned the fact it was over. And now waiting for After Dark with a Scoundrel, out sometime next year, is going to be torture.

Grade: A+

Summary:

Few women can resist a man like Gabriel “Reign” Housely, the Earl of Rainecourt. With divine good looks, delectable charms, and delicious wealth, he would seem to be every marriage-minded mother’s dream match for their daughters. But not so, given the mysterious death of his first wife. Fortunately for Gabriel, he has no plans to seriously court any of the London ladies ever again. That is, until he shares one unforgettable dance with a mysterious stranger…

Exquisitely beautiful though decidedly modest, Lady Sophia usually shuns the festive ballrooms of London society. But when a man who calls himself “Reign” enters her life—seemingly from out of nowhere—and shows her true kindness, her wary young heart begins to melt. Of course, Sophia would be shocked to learn the truth about Reign’s past. But when scandal strikes, this devilish stranger may be her only salvation…

No excerpt found.

Other books in this series:

Ash’s review of Dangerous Highlander by Donna Grant
Paranormal romance published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks 29 Dec 09

Mixing paranormal with highlanders is something that will draw me in every time, so Dangerous Highlander quickly found it’s way into my TBR pile. The first in the Dark Sword series, Donna Grant sets up a world that quickly gets shaken up and I was glad to go along for the ride.

After reading it, my feelings are mixed but I am hopeful for the series. My first feeling about it was that it was a comfort read, something I could sink into while real life fades away. Then we were given a glimpse of weird crazy witch hair sex and it took me way out of the story. It seemed to go that way throughout the story.

Lucan is a Warrior, a three hundred year old Highlander who has a god inside of him. In his case, he has Apodatoo, god of revenge. When he unleashes his god, it makes him to turn completely black and grow fangs and claws. The same goes for his two brothers, Fallon and Quinn. Lucan is easy to like, he’s mastered his god and is really the only stable one out of his brothers. I do feel like the other two are more interesting, and it seems Lucan is just there to fill in a space. He ends up saving Cara from falling from off a cliff, and so starts their romance. Cara is not totally your typical historical heroine. She doesn’t run screaming into the night when she first learns that there is more in the world than she knew, and she isn’t scared of things she probably should be. Though she does have her moments, such as running away from the big strong Warriors who can keep her safe, in order to protect them. She is, however, an eighteen year old virgin orphan who grew up in a nunnery, so I felt she was allowed to have a few less than bright ideas.

The big bad in this story is Deirdre, a witch who unleashed the gods within the brothers. We  get only a few, but creepy, scenes with her and I felt like it wasn’t enough. We are told she’s bad, but we never really see it. We don’t even really know what exactly she did while she had the brother’s captive. The only thing that stands out about her is that she does some very unnatural things with her hair. The danger always seemed to be in the background, and the final fight scene left me wanting.

In the end I liked Cara, and her scenes with Lucan are what made him interesting. The story as a whole was a bit up and down. I feel like I still need more information on what is going on with the Warriors, magic, and especially Deirdre. She is someone I find equally fascinating and disturbing and I wanted more of her. The emotional conflicts the other two brothers, and the evil plans that Deirdre have in store turned out to be more interesting than Lucan and Cara’s romance.

This story is obviously just the beginning, and with at least two more books in the series it looks like we will have to wait for the real action to start. It is a pleasant read, but I don’t think it sticks out among the paranormal genre. However, Donna Grant has captured my attention with the possibilities of where it could go. I would like to continue with to see where it ends up, and I am especially looking forward to Quinn’s book.

Grade: C+

First in a breathtaking new series, the bold and passionate Lucan MacLeod—one of three brothers cursed by dark magic for eternity—is driven by desire for the one woman he dare not let himself possess…

He is magnificently strong—and dangerously seductive. One of the fiercest of his clan, Lucan MacLeod is a legend among warriors, inspiring fear in man and woman alike. For three hundred years, he has locked himself away from the world, hiding the vengeful god imprisoned in his soul. But then, a young lass caught in a raging storm awakens his deepest impulses…and darkest desires.

Cara doesn’t believe the rumors about MacLeod castle—until the majestic Highland warrior appears like a fiery vision in the storm, pulling her into his powerful arms, and into his world of magic and Druids. An epic war between good and evil is brewing. And Lucan must battle his all-consuming attraction for Cara—or surrender to the flames of a reckless, impossible love that threatens to destroy them both…

released May 25

Ash’s review coming soon!

Sandy M’s review of All Night with a Rogue, (Lords of Vice, Book 1) by Alexandra Hawkins
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 2 Feb 10

I love finding new authors to read. Not that my old favorites don’t cut it anymore, there’s just nothing wrong with new blood being pumped into the market. And Alexandra Hawkins is making a big splash with her new Lords of Vice series about seven friends, rakes and rogues all of them, who challenge their lady loves to take them as they are. Her debut book gives us the first of these really bad boys, and imagine his surprise when he comes up against something he truly wants and for the first time in his spoiled life he can’t have it.

I love the way this book starts out. It’s unique but fun. The heroine is literally up a tree, trying to get away from an annoying dinner partner, and she trades one trap for another. But this second trap teaches Juliana a few things about sex and the feelings it can arouse in a person even if they aren’t one of the participants; teaches her something of how women can please men in ways she never imagined; teaches her spying on others in compromising positions, however innocently, may not end the way she expects.

Sin has grown up getting anything and everything he’s wanted, by fair means or sinful. Thus his nickname. As he’s being pleasantly pleasured by his current mistress, he discovers a beautiful voyeur in the tree above them. Gamely distracting the current woman in his life, he takes on the next as he becomes more intrigued with his beautiful tree fairy. Innocent though she may be, Sin is determined to have her and he always gets what he wants. It just so happens she’s the very same woman his sister wants ruined, and she asks Sin to do the honors. In need of a new pastime, he agrees and is shocked to learn Juliana is also his tree-climbing spy.

Thinking she’s easily gotten out of an embarrassing situation, Juliana is surprised when Sin returns to aid her from her perch and then begins his seduction of her on the spot, though she doesn’t know it yet. When she does realize what he’s up to, she really doesn’t have a chance against his charm and her seduction is complete in no time. Juliana knows when the season comes to an end and she and her family return to their home, Sin won’t even remember her name next year. But in the meantime she’s going to enjoy this dalliance for all it’s worth.

And then things begin to go wrong in a very big way. Her mother’s gambling to keep the family afloat takes a nosedive and Juliana is the one to pay the price. Forced to leave Sin and unable to tell him so, when he finds her in the company of another man, harsh words are said, punches are thrown, Sin drinks himself into a stupor and Juliana awaits a night of horror. It seems there’s no way for these two to come together ever again.

In the beginning, Sin’s arrogance and selfish ways worried me. Though he’s full of fun and sin, I wasn’t sure he could be turned around into the hero he’s meant to be. I should have known better. Once he learns what Juliana is going through after their public fight, he turns into a very dangerous rogue and goes after what he hopes will be his. And a little groveling never hurts. Juliana is a strong lady. She’s the one to suffer for those she loves. I admired her when she walked away from it all with her attitude intact, especially toward Sin.

The only thing I wanted more of was another love scene or two with these two. They’re a dynamic couple together and they sizzle when making love. A couple more scenes would have added a little more to their allure. I did enjoy all of Sin’s friends, the other Lords of Vice. We are introduced to each, get to know them enough to anticipate their books in the future. It will be quite interesting to see what Ms. Hawkins does with them all.

A very nice start to an intriguing series. I’m looking forward to every one.

Grade: A-

Summary:

Notorious, handsome, and decadent, the Lords of Vice prowl the glittering ballrooms of Regency London— breaking rules and hearts with equal aplomb. But even the wildest rogue must eventually meet his match…

Seduce Lady Juliana Ivers and then cast her aside: Those are his sister’s instructions. Alexius Braverton, Marquess of Sinclair—known as Sin to the ton—is happy enough to oblige, especially when he catches a glimpse of his target. Juliana is completely unlike the empty-headed chits who barely hold his attention for a week. A true gentleman would leave her to find a worthy suitor. But then, a Lord of Vice would never claim to be a gentleman.

Juliana is expected to marry well to improve her family’s finances, even if she secretly longs to make a living through her musical compositions. A dalliance can only complicate matters, though not even practical Juliana can help succumbing to the aptly named Sin. But one unforgettable night will draw her into a scandalous affair—and a seduction begun as sport will soon become deliciously, dangerously real… Read an excerpt. (click excerpts page)

Other books in this series:

Devon’s review of Big Bad Wolf (The Others, Book 8 ) by Christine Warren
Paranormal Romance released by St. Martin’s 29 September 2009

Christine Warren’s The Others series are a set of sexy, lighthearted romps based mostly in Manhattan. They follow an urban group of various supernatural races as they prepare for, and go through with, making themselves known to the human world. After awhile, I find that the heroines are a bit too similar to each other, but otherwise these books are a reliable choice for a fun read that’ll keep your interest for a few hours.

Although this is advertised as the eighth book in the series, it must be noted that Big Bad Wolf is a revised and expanded version of a previously published Ellora’s Cave ebook (as were One Bite With a Stranger and You’re so Vein). So the plot and the romance actually take place earlier in the timeline of the series, if you know what I mean. Those who began with Wolf at the Door, and earlier installments will already be familiar with werewolf alpha Graham Winters and his luna Missy Roper. While it doesn’t deter from my enjoyment, it can be a bit weird. Things haven’t happened yet, but I know they will. Newcomers to the series may prefer to figure out the chronological order, and read them that way, rather than going by the published order (see booklist at her site).

Graham is a sexy Alpha werewolf who is growing increasingly dissatisfied with his love life, busy as it is. Missy Roper is the human kindergarten teacher, way too mousy to get Graham’s attention. (Of course, she is really quite sassy and spunky, aren’t they all). When Missy’s friends get her dolled up for a party, she gains Graham’s immediate notice. Her scent, her looks…could she…could she be his elusive mate. Of course she is! However, Missy’s not thrilled that Graham doesn’t realize that he’s already met her, when she was the maid of honor and he was the best man in a wedding party. She doesn’t believe that someone as gorgeous as Graham could ever notice her.

There is not a whole lot of plot outside of the romance. A bit of tussling over the pack hierarchy, which doesn’t add too much excitement or suspense. What we have here is a slight but entertaining romance. Nothing new or earthshaking, but fun. It serves as a good introduction to the Silverback clan, who play a large role in later installments. Warren uses the tired soul mate trope, but she always makes it work. There’s chemistry, banter, and they actually get to know each other, as Graham tries to convince Missy that they belong together, and Missy tries to decide if she wants to get involved with Graham and this strange new world.

If you enjoy light paranormal romance that’s not too corny, this is a good series to try. This is a fun addition to the series, and may be actually be a good place to start.

Grade: B-

The Summary:
Graham Winters is a werewolf with a problem. His idiot cousin Curtis wants to take over as Alpha of the Silverback Clan because of an archaic Lupine tradition that says an unmated Lupine can’t lead a pack. So what is Graham supposed to do? Pull a mate out of his hat? Where else will he find the perfect woman for him in time to thwart Curtis’s plans?

As it turns out, the answer is right under his nose.

Six months of unrequited lust for a playboy werewolf have gotten Missy no closer to fulfilling her fantasy of becoming the love of Graham Winters’s life. But when her four best friends decide to dress her up for a blind date the night of Reggie and Misha’s engagement party, everything changes. Suddenly Graham is declaring his undying lust, the members of his pack are calling her Luna, and his cousin and rival are trying to kill her. Clearly, a little adventure can go a long way.
Now the question is whether Missy is willing to risk her heart and her life for a chance at finding out whether werewolves really do mate for life…
No Excerpt Found

Read Devon’s review of One Bite With a Stranger
Read Devon’s review of Walk on the Wild Side
Books in the series:

Liviania’s review of Apocalypse Happens (The Phoenix Chronicles, Book 3) by Lori Handeland
Contemporary paranormal romance released by St. Martin’s 3 Nov 09

On some level, I know this series is not as good as most of the other urban fantasy I read.  On the other hand, I find it extremely enjoyable.  I actually skipped the second book, but I could easily pick up what occurred and go from there.  (Though I do want to read it now, since quite a bit happened.)  I think that may be why I like this series.  I tend to like things that entertain me no matter what, and let’s face it: stuff happening is entertaining.  (That’s part of why post-season one Heroes sucks.) 

Oddly, there’s one aspect of The Phoenix Chronicles that both weakens and strengthens it for me.  [SPOILERS FOR SECOND BOOK.]  Elizabeth Phoenix becomes a vampire because her ghostly mentor tells her she needs an evil side.  Now, she has a collar to keep her vampire self under wraps, but sometimes she hears whispers of her own evil desires.

Watching Liz struggle with the darkness she’s taken into herself is interesting.  At the same time, it seems like a heinously bad idea even if it does help her and on-again off-again love Jimmy Sanducci at times.  She’s the leader of the good side.  Personally, I’d want my leader more on my side than a failing enchanted necklace that isn’t that hard to unclasp.  But that’s just me.

As for her love interests, there’s a nice balance of Jimmy and Sawyer.  Due to the events of Doomsday Can Wait and the beginning of Apocalypse Happens, Jimmy understandably wants space.  But Liz needs to get closer to Sawyer in order to go after Apocalypse Happens’ Big Bad, and perhaps discover once and for all whether he really is on her side.  And you know all that stuff happening?  I can’t wait to find out what happens in the relationships in the fourth book, Chaos Bites, due to everything that happens in the climax.

I also appreciate that Lori Handeland is finally revealing some information about Liz’s biological heritage.  But that brings the book once more to Sawyer’s tendency to do squicky things despite being the hero.  In Any Given Doomsday, he drugs Liz then sleeps with her.  This time it was more consensual, but he still keeps to the line of not being as sexy as he should be for the narrative due to bad behavior.

I will be back for the fourth outing since I find the Phoenix Chronicles fun.  I think most will find them fun, but for those who are exacting in their requirements for paranormal romance, this might not be the series to pick up.

Grade: C+

Read more reviews on this series by clicking on its tag here.

Summary:

Elizabeth Phoenix is one of a select few with the power to battle those who have escaped from the darkest level of hell—demons bent on destroying humanity and reclaiming earth once and for all. Liz is determined to stop yet another Doomsday. But this time, it’s going to be more difficult than ever because someone she thought was dead isn’t dead anymore…and is bound and determined to destroy Liz and everyone she loves in the upcoming Apocalypse.

Liz has arrived in Los Angeles to ferret out a nest of varcolacs: half human, half dragon creatures who crave the destruction of the sun and moon. But before she can prevent the kind of eclipse that would bring the world to an end, Liz must mine the depths of her own heart. She and her former lover Jimmy Sanducci have some personal demons to battle—and there’s always her mentor, the Navajo shaman Sawyer. Is he on their side or isn’t he? In the end, the three of them must find a way to fight together…or perish alone.

Read an excerpt here.

Other books in the series:

Chaos Bites (Book 4), Spring 2010

Gwen’s review of Born of Night (The League, Book 1) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Sci-fi romance released by St. Martin’s 29 Sep 09

This is one of the first books written by Kenyon, early in her career and pre-Dark Hunters.  You can see quite a bit of her later books in this one, except this one is set in the future with aliens, spaceships, and blasters.  I don’t think Einstein would have liked the Ichidian Universe – the normal laws of physics don’t seem to mean much, but in a sci-fi, they often don’t. 

In this book, we have a heroine, Kiara, who is a very famous professional dancer, who, truth be told, is bored with her life and dancing.  She’s called “princess” but I couldn’t figure out what she was princess of, since her father wasn’t a “king” or some similar rank.  Regardless, she’s made a pawn in a planetary pissing match between her dad and a neighboring world, and, as a result, a contract is taken out on her life.  A very lucrative contract for the right assassin.

Enter our hero, Nykyrian, professional assassin – trained since childhood to be the ultimate killer.  He’s the “most deadly being in the universe” and he’s tired of being hunted because of who he is.  There’s also a very lucrative contract out on his head as a result of him abandoning his assassin brotherhood when he got tired of killing.

Through a variety of rather obscure moves, Nyk and his compatriots come to protect Kiara from the killers who are hunting her for the contract payoff.  Nyk and Kiara grate against each other, but naturally fall in lurve as they are forced to spend time together. Nyk, you see, is a fan of Kiara’s dancing.

As with most Kenyon heroes, Nyk has had the most horrendous life imaginable prior to meeting the heroine.  At the end of the book, many of the awful things are explained.  Some eye-rolling ensues, but, it’s Kenyon so you expect a bit. There are also a few times when either Kiara or Nyk do some really stupid thing (let her go to the bathroom by herself in a public place when there are bad guys after her?  really?).

Even with the quibbling little things that made me crazy (going from one planet to another seems to take as much time as running down the street to the store), it was still a fun book to read.  I just had to let myself roll with it a few times.

And, yes, I’m going to read the next book in the series.  It’s a fun universe and I’m addicted to Kenyon like a crack whore.  If you’re thinking about waiting for the next book, you definitely do NOT want to read these books out of order.  There are gigantic spoilers at the end of this first book that will ruin it for you if you read Book 2 first.

I recommend Born of Night to anyone who is a fan of Kenyon, or a fan of sci-fi romances where you don’t have to think too hard about the science.

Grade: B-

Summary:

In the Ichidian Universe, The League and their ruthless assassins rule all. Expertly trained and highly valued, the League Assassins are the backbone of the government. But not even the League is immune to corruption . . .

Command Assassin Nykyrian Quikiades once turned his back on the League—and has been hunted by them ever since. Though many have tried, none can kill him or stop him from completing his current mission: to protect Kiara Zamir, a woman whose father’s political alliance has made her a target.

As her world becomes even deadlier, Kiara must entrust her life to the same kind of beast who once killed her mother and left her for dead. Old enemies and new threaten them both and the only way they can survive is to overcome their suspicions and learn to trust in the very ones who threaten them the most: each other.

Read an excerpt here (click on “Read More” in the Excerpt area).

Other books in the series:

We normally do a ‘raw and unedited’ excerpt with Lisa but it dawned on me last week that Mz Kleypas is already editing this so while this isn’t a final copy and still subject to change… it isn’t ‘raw and unedited’ (all the more reason we should get one for the next book even sooner yes *eg*)

Lisa said to think of it as ‘medium rare‘ . I don’t have the cover yet but as soon as we do we will put it up.  REMEMBER this doesn’t come out until summer of 2010 – read at your own risk .

Everything below does not belong to us but copyrighted to Lisa Kleypas & posted at TGTBTU with permission.  Enjoy!

This scene was actually deleted from Chp.23 of Tempt Me At Twilight, and is now part of the opening of Married By Morning.

Leo, Lord Ramsay, has just uncovered a secret about Catherine Marks, the family governess and companion:

Leo stared at Catherine Marks’s downbent head, trying to absorb the information. The sense of being duped, betrayed, ignited a bonfire of rage. “There could be no good reason,” he said, “for such information to have been kept secret.”

“The situation is complicated.”

“Why have neither of you said anything before now?”

“You don’t need to know.”

“You should have told me. You were obligated.”

“By what?”

“Loyalty, damn you. What else do you know that might affect my family? What other secrets are you hiding?”

“It’s none of your business,” Catherine shot back, now twisting in his grip. “Let me go!

“Not until I find out what you’re plotting. Is Catherine Marks even your real name? Who the hell are you?” He swore as she began to struggle in earnest. “Hold still, you little she-devil. I just want to–ouch!” This last as she turned and jabbed a sharp elbow in his side.

The maneuver gained Marks the freedom she sought, but her spectacles went flying to the ground. “My spectacles!” With an aggravated sigh, she dropped to her hands and knees and began feeling for them.

Leo’s fury was instantly smothered by guilt. From the looks of it, she was practically blind without the spectacles. And the sight of her crawling on the ground made him feel like a brute. A jackass. Lowering to his knees, he began to hunt for them as well. “Did you see the direction they went in?” he asked.

“If I did,” she said, fuming, “I wouldn’t need spectacles, would I?”

A short silence. “I’ll help you find them.”

“How kind of you,” she said acidly.

For the next few minutes the two of them traversed the garden on their hands and knees, searching among the daffodils. They both chewed on the gristly silence as if it were a mutton chop.

“So you actually need spectacles,” Leo finally said.

“Of course I do,” Marks said crossly. “Why would I wear spectacles if I didn’t need them?”

“I thought they might be part of your disguise.”

“My disguise?”

“Yes, Marks, disguise. A noun describing something that serves to conceal someone’s identity. Often used by clowns and spies, and now apparently governesses. Good God, can anything be ordinary for my family?”

Marks glared and blinked in his direction, her gaze not quite focused. For a moment, she looked like an anxious child whose favorite blanket had been set out of reach. And that caused an odd, painful twinge in Leo’s heart.

“I’ll find your spectacles,” he said brusquely. “You have my word. If you like, you can go into the house while I keep searching.”

“No, thank you. If I tried to find the house on my own, I’d probably end up in the barn.”

Seeing a metallic glimmer in the grass, Leo reached out and closed his hand around the spectacles. “Here they are.” He crawled to Marks and faced her in an upright kneeling position. After polishing the lenses with the edge of his sleeve, he said, “Hold still.”

“Give them to me.”

“Let me do it, hardhead. Arguing comes to you as naturally as breathing, doesn’t it?”

“No, it doesn’t,” she said immediately, and colored as he gave a husky laugh.

“It’s no fun to bait you when you make it so easy, Marks.” He placed the spectacles on her face with great care, running his fingers along the sides of the frame, viewing the fit with an assessing glance. Gently he touched the tips of the earpieces. “They’re not fitted well.” He ran an exploring fingertip over the upper rim of one ear. She was remarkably pretty in the sunlight, her gray eyes containing glimmers of blue and green. Like opals. “Such small ears,” Leo continued, letting his hands linger gently at the sides of her fine-boned face. “No wonder your spectacles fall off so readily. There’s hardly anything to hang them on.”

Marks stared at him in bewilderment.

How fragile she was, he thought. Her will was so fierce, her temperament so prickly, that he tended to forget she was only half his size. He would have expected her to slap his hands away by now–she hated being touched, especially by him. But she didn’t move at all. He let his thumb brush the side of her throat, and felt the tiny undulation of her swallow. There was something unreal about the moment, something dreamlike. He didn’t want it to end.

“Is Catherine your real name?” he asked. “Will you at least answer that?”

She hesitated, fearful of yielding any part of herself, even that insignificant scrap of information. But as his fingertips slid along her neck, the light caress seemed to disarm her. A bloom of color rose from her throat.

“Yes,” she choked out. “It’s Catherine.”

They were still kneeling together, her skirts having billowed and settled everywhere. Folds of flower-printed muslin had been caught under one of Leo’s knees. His body reacted strongly to her nearness, heat sliding beneath his skin and gathering in inconvenient places. Muscles tightened, thickened. He would have to put an end to this, or he was going to do something they would both regret.

“I’ll help you up,” Leo said brusquely, making to rise. “We’ll go inside. I warn you, however, I’m not through with you yet. There’s more I–”

But he broke off, because as Marks had tried to struggle upward, her body had brushed against his. They went still, caught front to front, their breath mingling in uneven surges.

The dreamlike feeling intensified. The two of them were kneeling in a summer garden, the air weighted with the perfume of hot crushed grass and pungent daffodils . . . and Catherine Marks was in his arms. Her hair shimmered in the sunlight, her skin petal-smooth. Her upper lip was nearly as full as the lower, the curves as delicate and smooth as a ripe persimmon. Staring at her mouth, he felt the hairs on the back of his neck lift in reflexive excitement.

Some temptations, Leo decided hazily, should not be resisted. Because they were so persistent that they would only keep returning, time and again. Therefore such temptations absolutely had to be yielded to–it was the only way to get rid of them.

“Damn it,” he said raggedly, “I’ll do it. Even knowing I’ll be annihilated afterward.”

“You’ll do what?” Marks asked, her eyes huge.

“This.”

And his mouth descended to hers.

©2009 Lisa Kleypas

Gwen’s review of Undead On Arrival  (Crimson Moon, Book 3) by L.A. Banks
Urban fantasy released by St. Martin’s 31 Mar 09

Sybil sends me random urban fantasies and paranormals to read and review.  I’m usually happy with the books – sometimes they suck and sometimes I’m pleased as punch with the book.  This book sits in the middle of that spectrum for me. 

My first mistake was to read this book before I read the first two in the series.  Undead is most definitely not a standalone book and relies heavily on the reader’s foreknowledge of the world, the players, and all the plottin’ and politickin’ in this series.

My next mistake was ignoring the “at sea” feeling I developed, and never gave up, during the beginning few chapters.  I should have just stopped, put the book down, and picked it up after reading the previous two books.  But nooooo.  My OCD wouldn’t let me.  Once I start something I just have to finish it.  That means I sat reading this book, puzzling thru the plots, subplots, names, personalities, and details that make up this world of Banks’s.

GAH!

Frustrating as hell.

One of the things that made me a little crazier than normal was the herky-jerky path the book takes down the plotline.  Banks does do a LOT of head and scene jumping, sometimes for only a paragraph.  It’s not that I dislike this – it’s rather invigorating to read constant forward motion down a complex path.  However, I was *completely* and *utterly* lost on several of these side trips.  Plus, sometimes a plot jump lasts for several pages and when we return to a previous plot line (frequently hours later, once some laundry and soccer practice has seen the positive side of my “to do” list), I have NO IDEA what the hell I’m reading about.  I have to go back and re-read the previous plotline just to catch up.

Frustrating as HELL.

I’m sure this series is fun if/when you start at the beginning.  It seems exciting.  It doesn’t come together very well for me, though.  There’s just too much unsaid, too much going on, too many heads and factions, and too much that didn’t seem important to the story.  Remember – I’m the Johnny-come-lately to this series.

I can recommend this book to fans of the series.  If you like L.A. Banks’ other books, then you may like this one – IF you start at the beginning, that is.

Grade: C

Summary:

Just one month ago, secret government operative Sasha Trudeau thought she’d tasted victory. Orchestrating détente between the warring factions of the supernatural world had nearly cost her life—but it also opened the door to a future with Max Hunter, her mate and fellow Shadow Wolf.

Until now. A poisonous virus is wreaking havoc on Hunter’s immune system. And the passionate man who Sasha loves has become unpredictable, dangerous—and possibly deadly. When Hunter disappears the night a human is found ravaged, Sasha is thrust into a race against the clock to find the cure for her mate…and the traitor who’s determined to see them both dead.

Read an excerpt here.

Other books in the series:

Gwen’s review of Tempt Me At Twilight (The Hathaways, Book 3) by Lisa Kleypas
Historical romance released by St. Martin’s 22 Sep 09

There are a few authors that I always enjoy.  Short story, novel, or just plain interacting with readers – they’re always pleasant and gracious.  Lisa Kleypas is one of those few sincerely nice people and her writing normally reflects that niceness.  So imagine my surprise when she created the morally ambiguous hero, Harry, in Tempt Me At Twilight.  A hero who is even worse than St.Vincent (be still my heart).

Don’t get me wrong – by the ened Harry manages to redeem himself.  Just.  But I do believe he is the most damaged of all of the Kleypas heroes and I LOVED him!  He is a bit mad, very bad, and willing to do anything to win Poppy’s hand.  This sets up some fun scenes and terrific dialogue for the morally centered and very nice Poppy when dealing with the determined and unprincipled Harry.

Twilight is a typical Kleypas romance in that the heroine is imminently likeable and the romance is sigh-worthy.  However, it departs from Kleypas’s formula in that the hero acts in a very un-herolike manner for purely selfish reasons.  In her other novels (in my experience) unworthy actions normally have heroic purposes or outcomes.  Harry has none of these.  He just wants Poppy.  Period. And does whatever he has to do, short of murder, to get her.

This creates amazing tension between the main characters.  It also presents interesting predicaments for Poppy’s oh-so-close family.  You can imagine how Cam and Merripen feel about a man who connives, cheats, and maneuvers their “little sister” into marriage, breaking her heart along the way.  It is tremendous fun to read.

I found myself moved to tears several as Poppy and Harry make discoveries about each other and themselves.  Harry’s childhood and his inability to connect normally to others is quite heartbreaking to read.  This element is a real masterstroke for Kleypas.  It’s all so wonderfully nuanced and complicated, and entertaining as hell to read.

Twilight stands alone – you needn’t read the other books in the series to enjoy it.  Though I highly recommend all of the Hathaways books.  This family has the best of late Regency, odd-ball romance entertainment.

I highly recommend Twilight for anyone who is a fan of historical romance or just romance in general.  It is a lovely, complex story about redemption, discovery, family, and love.  You shouldn’t miss it.

Grade: A

Read reviews and information for books in this series by following this tag here.

Summary:

Poppy Hathaway loves her unconventional family, though she longs for normalcy. Then fate leads to a meeting with Harry Rutledge, an enigmatic hotel owner and inventor with wealth, power, and a dangerous hidden life. When their flirtation compromises her own reputation, Poppy shocks everyone by accepting his proposal—only to find that her new husband offers his passion, but not his trust.

Harry was willing to do anything to win Poppy—except to open his heart. All his life, he has held the world at arm’s length…but the sharp, beguiling Poppy demands to be his wife in every way that matters. Still, as desire grows between them, an enemy lurks in the shadows. Now if Harry wants to keep Poppy by his side, he must forge a true union of body and soul, once and for all…

Read an excerpt here.

Other books in the series:

Former Texan, creator of Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent and one of those people you would swear is just too nice to be real – Lisa Kleypas – will be dropping by the pond today.  She is VERY close to deadline… soon to be shaking hands with her drop dead date.  The way I look at it, this should work in our favor cuz really what more does a author want at that time than distraction.

::innocent blink::

To get you started I asked her a few questions, you can ask her some more in the comments, anything that doesn’t get answered we will put together in an ‘interview’ and post after Leo is ‘Married by Morning‘ and on his way to her editor.  Until then if you haven’t already read Tempt Me at Twilight you can check out excerpts: on her site here, the ‘raw’ one here (that didn’t change much) and the new one here.

Thanks again to Lisa for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer my questions.

**the following quotes are from Tempt Me at Twilight ©2009 Lisa Kleypas

“Well, to start with—“ Poppy tried to sound pragmatic even though her eyes watered. “I’m not a virgin anymore.”

Leo gave her a mock-shamed glance. “Neither am I,” he confessed.

A reluctant giggle escaped her.

Leo rummaged in his coat for a handkerchief, without success. “Don’t cry, darling. I have no handkerchief, and in any case, virginity is nearly impossible to find once you’ve lost it.”

How do you feel Tempt Me at Twilight turned out? Are you happy with the finished novel?



I am very happy with it!—it was a great writing experience, and I think part of that was because I finally settled in comfortably with the Hathaways. Whenever there was a group scene, it was incredibly fun to write, because I knew exactly how each character would react to what was going on.

After the previous year, when I wrote a couple of darker, more angsty novels (Blue Eyed Devil and Seduce Me At Sunrise) I felt a little worn out emotionally, and ready for some fun. So the two books I wrote after that were Smooth Talking Stranger and Tempt Me At Twilight, and I think they both reflect the sheer joy I felt in writing.

Poppy wondered what was wrong with her, that she should be amused rather than frightened by his confession. “Harry. You’re not supposed to court a girl by telling her you’re the villain.”

He gave her an innocent glance that didn’t deceive her in the least. “I’m trying to be honest.”

“Perhaps. But you’re also making certain that whatever anyone says about you, you’ve already admitted it. Now you’ve made all criticism of you ineffectual.”

Harry blinked as if she’d surprised him. “You think I’m that manipulative?”

Harry has a fabulous line, well really he has many, “In the fairy tale you mentioned last night, I would probably be the villain.” I have to admit I adore that and him.  As you know I have a fondness for Sebastian (Devil in Winter), Leo (Married by Morning) and we can’t forget Kev (Seduce Me at Sunrise).  All of them have bastard like qualities, why do you think that works in a ‘hero’?

Thanks, Sybs, I love to hear that! I think as long as there are deeper, authentically motivated reasons for a hero behaving badly, readers are always generous enough to forgive him. I adore nice-guy heroes, but the bastards are always more exciting, aren’t they?

I think it’s the tension of wondering what they’re going to do, and wondering how the heroine will react. And the character arc is so emotionally satisfying when a hero goes through experiences that force him to change. It always gives me a pleasant shiver at the moment when the hero who has been so dangerous and destructive in the past, is now going to use all power to protect and satisfy the heroine.

“Before you leave,” he said softly, “I have some advice for you. It’s not safe for a young woman to wander alone through the hotel. Don’t take such a foolish risk again.”

Poppy stiffened. “It’s a reputable hotel,” she said. “I have nothing to fear.”

“Of course you do,” he murmured. “You’re looking right at it.”

What makes Harry different from your other heroes?



He’s unusual for me, in that he is a mechanical engineer, and he is so remarkably isolated. He knows how to manipulate people, but not how to have a close relationship with them. So he has an emotional innocence that seemed very sweet to me, despite his villainous qualities. When he meets Poppy, he falls for her immediately because she is so open to the kind of emotional connection that he secretly craves.

She is a very warm and talkative character, and she is a little bit nerdy in the same way he is. When Harry visits the Hathaways and sees how they relate to each other, he is thrown off-balance because he’s never been part of a family . . . there’s this magical something in the air, and he’s not sure what it is, until he finally realizes it’s love. So normal for them, so unfamiliar to him.

“As it happens,” Harry murmured, “I’m American by birth.”

I totally loved that Harry Rutledge is from America (as is Lily and Daisy from your Wallflower series) any chance we could see an American Historical from you in the future? ::coughwesterncough::

I would so love to set a historical in America! If I’m ever able to, I would probably set it in Victorian era New York—what an exciting place, and so much was happening! Self-made men with big fortunes galore.

You soooooo are not helping my western agenda… just saying ::pout::

You ever read a book called Give Me Tonight?  It is out of print and hard to find but I hear it is good ::innocent blink::

“Afraid?” he asked softly.

Poppy forced herself to meet his gaze. “No.”

“Maybe you should be. I’m much nicer to people who are afraid of me.”

“I doubt that,” she said. “I think the opposite is true.”

Poppy is a very strong female character, even when she is making choices Rutledge has manipulated her into.  I see that trait in all the Hathaway sisters and could say it is true for most of your heroines.  Is this a personal choice as an author – something that speaks against the ‘sterotypical weak female’ in romance or something you honestly see reflected in the history of the time?

I appreciate that—I’ve always thought that true strength is not displaying the hoyden/vixen/bitch type of behavior, but rather the patience and persistence and resilience that Poppy displays.

She has her moments of frustration and temper, but she is also quick to forgive and apologize. I think women did have to summon a lot of patience back then, because it was so frowned upon for a woman to be outwardly demanding or aggressive—they had so many constraints placed on them.  You wonder if all the “nervous ailments” that women suffered from were really just a reflection of the stress and frustration of having to let men be in charge all the time!

“Those who have special requests,” Mr. Lufton continued, “or don’t like their rooms cleaned at certain times, those who insist on bringing pets, things of that sort. We don’t discourage them from staying, but we do make a note of their peculiarities.”

Speaking of the history of the time, odd question but I have a background in hotels, and totally love the setting of the book.  Any books you can recommend you used for research into hotels of the time?
I wondered if you would like that!  Yes, I had some fantastic resources and it was so much fun to research. There was a great book titled Hotel: An American History by Andrew K Sandoval-Strausz that provide a ton of information about the development of American and European hotel industries, and a great biography of the great hotel developer Henry Flagler, and I researched the histories of some classic London hotels such as Brown’s and Mivart‘s (the latter turned into Claridge’s).

The Rutledge is a composite of those old hotels, with some of the innovations that were happening at the time, food lifts and en suite bathing-rooms and plumbing  . . . in fact, I spent so much time contemplating and “designing” the Rutledge that it almost seems like a real place to me now!

Jake’s face fell. God. Another scene. “Sir, I’d rather go on an errand in east London and be pummeled by street thieves.”

Rutledge smiled. “That will probably happen later in the week.”

When is Jake getting a book?



I truly hadn’t thought of that. You think he’s hero material?






I did! He sort of reminds me of a derek character… not as hardcore but we didn’t really see him at ‘work’ so to speak. I figured he got his hands plenty dirty or did before for Harry. NOT that I am asking, if I were to ‘request’ a story I want a novella on ‘where are they now’ on St. Vincent and Evie *g*. I know you soooooooooo didn’t see that coming.

“And there’s one more thing to be aware of,” Cam said, with a wintry softness that disguised all hint of feeling. “If you succeed in marrying her, we’re not losing a sister. You’re gaining an entire family–who will protect her at any cost.”

If you were a book what would your ‘summary’ be?  (totally stole that from Sandy M Duck Chats cuz it amuses me)



Oh, this is not easy. Hmm. How about “A cookie-loving daydreamer turns her love of words and fantasies into a writing career, and finds true love along the way. She is surrounded by a brilliant cast of characters, including witty and wacky friends, a great publisher, a sock-stealing cocker spaniel, and an adorable duck-loving reviewer who always makes her laugh.”

“No. I’ve found that life is far kinder to shallow people.” Turning her, Leo drew her up against his tall, well-muscled frame.

What super TOP secret info can you give us on Leo’s book, Married by Morning.



Leo has been secretly drawing naked sketches of Catherine (imagining what she might look like), and she finds out.
**highlight over the blankspace if you want to see the spoiler

“She has experience with primates?” Harry asked sardonically.

Poppy considered that. “We’ve just been through the London season. Does that count?”

What super TOP Secret info can you give us on Beatrix’s book, Love in the Afternoon?



Beauty and the Beast theme.

That’s all I can say for now!
**highlight over the blankspace if you want to see the spoiler

That is really not that much to go on but since you haven’t even started the book I will give you a pass on it.

When will we get to see the cover for Married by Morning? LOL I know, I always want something…

If you have questions or comment for Lisa Kleypas, please put it in the comments of this post. If you have read Tempt Me at Twilight, do tell us what you thought of it.

Gwen’s review of Demons Not Included (Night Trackers, Book 1) by Cheyenne McCray
Urban fantasy released by St. Martin’s 2 Jun 09

This is the first of a new series for McCray.  It’s an urban fantasy using a lot of familiar paranormal elements overlayed on a modern day New York City.  But what’s nice is the characterizations are unique and interesting, even if we’ve been down this particular paranormal road before. 

The heroine, Nyx, is half human, half dark elf or Drow.  This gives her unique powers when in her elf form, which she uses to kick bad guy butt. There are two heroes – one is a light elf and the other a human.  I like love triangles, so this was fun for me.  The complications were juicy and sad, at the same time.

There are a lot of similarities between this book and many other paranormals.  The comparisons will be unavoidable if you’ve read any Hamilton, Kenyon, or Saintcrow.  McCray saves the inevitable correlations by giving us interesting characters and a fun storyline that has lots of action.

While there is certainly romance and sensuality in the book, at the end we’re left wondering what’s going to happen there.  As with many urban fantasies, the romance isn’t the reason we’re here – it’s all about the characters and the action.  The story and plot is interesting and different enough that I didn’t feel like I was reading yet another of the same.

I recommend this book to fans of UF and of the author.  If you’ve had your fill of first person POV (done well in this book) and similar paranormals, you may want to avoid it.  I enjoyed it, so I must not be wholly done with the genre.

Grade: B-

Summary:

Meet Nyx. This half-human, half-Drow private eye investigates paranormal crimes by day and is an elite Tracker of demons by night. She prefers working solo—and playing rough. So when a terrifying force starts murdering innocent humans and paranorms, and leaving strange demonic symbols burned into their buildings, it’s a case Nyx takes very personally…

Meanwhile, Nyx’s fellow Trackers are being killed one by one—and a sexy new Tracker named Torin is shadowing her every move. Torin has powers Nyx can’t read, and sometimes she wonders whose side he’s on. Nyx’s instincts tell her something’s brewing in the city’s meanest supernatural streets, and that it’s ready to unleash hell on Earth. Who can she trust? Now it’s five minutes to permanent midnight…and Nyx’s last chance means risking everything—even her own life.

Read an excerpt here (nice long excerpt).

Other books in the series:

No Werewolves Allowed, Book 2 – coming early 2010

Lisa Kleypas is under a September deadline and very nicely agreed to join us on the blog this week.  Sadly I  just sent her the questions yesterday, so Lisa will be here Monday September 28.  This gives you time to read the book and come armed with questions *g*.

Hopefully she will have time to answer them.  If not, whatever remains unanswered (and can be answered) we will post later in a follow up interview after her book is turned in.

Until then here is a delightful look at Tempt Me at Twilight.  I ended up liking this book much more than I thought I would, Harry is a very interesting character and a great match for Poppy.  We will also have a ‘raw and unedited’ excerpt from Married by Morning in October – LEO’s book! My fave since St. Vincent *eg*.

The following excerpt happens quite a few scenes before the one that is posted on her at her site .

Horrified to feel the sting of desperate tears, she concentrated blindly on a section of floor in front of her. Don’t cry. Don’t cry. Don’t–

“Miss Hathaway.” Lady Norbury’s jovial voice intruded on her frantic thoughts. “This gentleman has requested an introduction, you fortunate girl! It is my honor and delight to present Mr. Harry Rutledge, the hotelier.”

A pair of highly polished black shoes came into her vision. Poppy glanced miserably up into his vivid green eyes.

Harry bowed, holding her gaze. “Miss Hathaway, how do you–”

“I’d love to waltz,” Poppy said, practically leaping from her chair and seizing his arm. Her throat was so tight, she could hardly speak. “Let’s go now.”

Lady Norbury gave a disconcerted laugh. “What charming enthusiasm.”

Poppy gripped Harry’s arm as if it were a lifeline. His gaze dropped to the clench of her fingers in the fine black wool of his sleeve. He covered her fingers with the reassuring pressure of his free hand, his thumb smoothing over the edge of her wrist. And even through two layers of white gloves, she felt the comfort in his touch.

At that moment Miss Marks returned, having just dispatched of Michael Bayning. Her brows lowered in a scowl as she looked up at Harry. “No,” she said shortly.

“No?” His lips twitched with amusement. “I haven’t asked for anything yet.”

Miss Marks gave him a cold stare. “Obviously you wish to dance with Miss Hathaway.”

“You have objections?” he asked innocently.

“Several,” Miss Marks said, her manner so curt that both Lady Norbury and Poppy gave her looks of askance.

“Miss Marks,” Lady Norbury said, “I can vouch for this gentleman’s character will all assurance.”

The companion pressed her lips into a hyphen. She surveyed Poppy’s glittering eyes and flushed face, seeming to understand how close she was to losing her composure. “When the dance is finished,” she told Poppy grimly, “you will take his left arm, insist that he conduct you directly back to me, here, and then he will take his leave. Understood?”

“Yes,” Poppy whispered, glancing over Harry’s broad shoulder.

Michael was staring at her from across the room, his face ashen.

The situation was hideous. Poppy wanted to run from the ballroom. Instead, she would have to dance.

Harry led Poppy toward the crowd of waltzing couples and settled his gloved hand at her waist. She reached for him, one palm light and trembling at his shoulder, her other hand gripped securely in his. In one astute glance, Harry took in the entire scene: Poppy’s unshed tears, Michael Bayning’s set face, and the slew of curious gazes encompassing them.

“How can I help?” he asked gently.

“Take me away,” she said. “As far as possible from here. Timbuktu.”

Harry looked sympathetic and amused. “I don’t think they’re letting in Europeans these days.” He drew Poppy into the current of dancers, swift counter-clockwise turns in a clockwise pattern, and the only way to keep from stumbling was to follow him without hesitation.

Poppy was profoundly grateful to have something to focus on besides Michael. As she might have expected, Harry Rutledge was an excellent dancer. Poppy relaxed into his smooth, strong lead. “Thank you,” she said. “You’re probably wondering why I–”

“No, I don’t wonder. It was written on your face, and Bayning’s, for everyone to see. You’re not very good at subterfuge, are you?”

“I’ve never needed to be.” To Poppy’s horror, her throat clenched and her eyes stung. She was about to burst into tears in front of everyone. As she tried to take a steadying breath, the corset squeezed her lungs, and she felt dizzy. “Mr. Rutledge,” she wheezed, “Could you take me out to the terrace for some air?”

“Certainly.” His voice was reassuringly calm. “One more circuit around the room, and we’ll slip out.”

In other circumstances, Poppy might have taken pleasure in the sureness of his lead, the music that gilded the air. She stared fixedly at the dark face of her unlikely rescuer. He was dazzling in the elegant clothes, his heavy dark hair brushed back in disciplined layers. But his eyes were underpinned by the ever-present hint of shadows. Windows to a restless soul. He didn’t sleep enough, she thought, and wondered if anyone ever dared mention it to him.

Even through the haze of numb desolation, it occurred to Poppy that by asking her to dance, Harry Rutledge had singled her out in what could have been construed by many as a declaration of interest.

But that couldn’t be true.

“Why?” she asked faintly, without thinking.

“Why what?”

“Why did you ask me to dance?”

Harry hesitated as if torn between the necessity of tact and the inclination toward honesty. He settled on the latter. “Because I wanted to hold you.”

©2009 Lisa Kleypas

Gwen’s review of Doomsday Can Wait (The Phoenix Chronicles, Book 2) by Lori Handeland (WARNING! Sound on her site.)
Urban Fantasy released by St. Martin’s 28 Apr 09

I dithered about the grade to give this book.  It was some good storytelling, but the plot didn’t move forward as much as I would have liked.  I have the same complaint about many serialized books these days. It seems that authors or publishers or editors (not sure who to blame) want to stretch out stories beyond a book’s reasonable length so that they get multiple books where one or two would have done better. 

I realize this is a simple economics lesson – supply-demand, etc.  However, are we really doing the story and the reader any real favors by doing this?  In many cases – one of which being, unfortunately, The Phoenix Chronicles – there just doesn’t appear to be enough story to support this many books. It feels like small-ish details are stretched out beyond all reason, dragging the story down and slowing the pace to a point where it becomes a chore to read.

Books that seem to be written this way are full of rather pointless character introspection.  You know what I mean.  Paragraph after paragraph where a character (the heroine, in this case, since it’s written in first person POV) does endless navel lint inspection.  If I want this kind of writing, I’ll pick up Gore Vidal, or Ayn Rand.  I’m here for a story, doggonnit, and I want dialogue and action.  Not paragraphs of “why me? why not me? what’s the meaning of life”.  Gah.  Dull!

Sawyer is still my favorite character in this series.  The ending was interesting, but only because something actually happened in it.  The series has some interesting characters in it and an interesting premise, but that’s not enough to carry the plot.

I hope the next book is the end to the series, though I’m unlikely to read it.  And I really don’t think it should be dragged out beyond that unless something changes significantly in these characters’ lives.

I can recommend this book to fans of the author and the series.  If you haven’t picked up the series but still feel interested, be prepared for a book with a sedate pace.

Grade: C

Read more reviews of books in this series by following its tag here.

Summary:
.
SHE CAN SEE EVIL COMING FROM ALL DIRECTIONS…
It took the near annihilation of humanity for Liz Phoenix to understand the true meaning of her premonitions. Liz is one of the sacred few on earth who has the psychic powers to fight the malevolent forces that have tried to wipe out the human race since the beginning of time. She battled these beings once, thwarting Doomsday but losing most of her soldiers in the massacre. Now she must replenish her troops quickly-because the supernatural war isn’t over yet.
.
Read an excerpt here.

Other books in the series:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grade:A

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

Other books in this series:

This just in…

Christine Warren and St. Martin’s are giving away a free copy of a new short story in Christine’s Other series. Check out how you can get your copy…

~ The title of the story is Heart of the Sea.

~ You can read an excerpt of the story here.

~ There’s two ways you can sign up to receive your copy via email: at St. Martin’s new romance website, She Loves Hot Reads, and look for the book cover you see here on the left, or just take the direct route here.

Consider yourself flashed.

Gwen’s review of Faeries Gone Wild by MaryJanice Davidson, Lois Greiman, Michele Hauf, and Leandra Logan (no author site)
Contemporary paranormal romance anthology released by St. Martin’s 2 Jun 09

This was a cute anthology and you’ll see me use the word “cute” a lot in this review.  All stories are placed in the modern world, have romances, and faeries are the protagonists.  A couple of them have some suspense elements, but the stories are really quite lighthearted in nature.  Read on to see which of these romps was rompier than the others…

“Tall, Dark and Not So Faery” by MaryJanice Davidson (70-pgs)

This story was a complete tongue in cheek, goofy frolic of a story.  I don’t think a single paranormal being was left out – vampire, werewolf, giant, faeries, dryad, and… wait for it… a possessed SUV named Judith.  The Violent Fairy’s sister has come to town to count everyone on the farm.  In the process,  the SUV hooks her up with the local mechanic.  The story is a little schizophrenic and light with some interesting interactions between all of the characters. Not sure I care for the writing style where grammar and line returns are used to impose mental interruptions in the characters’ thought processes.  But it was fun and made me chuckle a couple of times.

Grade: B-

Summary:
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Scarlett is not your typical pint-sized faery. At six feet, four inches tall, she’s an unlikely candidate for a match made in heaven. But when she ventures to Cannon Falls, Minnesota, on royal orders to survey its extraordinary residents, she stumbles upon the one man who just may measure up to size…
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Read an excerpt here.

“Pixie Lust” by Lois Greiman (102-pgs)

This was another cute story.  A mortal man falls head over heels for a fern faery and in the process trashes his life – a multimillion dollar career, an important development deal, and his engagement to an uptight bitch of a fiancee.  But he saves a meadow and glade of trees.

Yeah.  I had the same reaction.

The story starts very slowly and the ending was rushed.  I would have preferred the opposite. There are some rather extreme suspense elements at the end of the story that seemed oddly out of place.  Good, but not great story.

Grade: C+ 

Summary:
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William Timber is a cutthroat developer who refuses to let a few trees come between him and his next million. But when Avalina-a sparkling faery charged to protect all things green-comes to town, William is forced to choose between life as he knows it and the unknown reaches of his heart.
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Read an excerpt here.

“Dust Me, Baby, One More Time” by Michele Hauf (101-pgs)

This was a better story than the last, primarily because the heroine is so appealing.  The Tooth Fairy falls for the Sandman.  There are some really very funny elements in this story – Dart Sand “prematurely dusts” his dates, knocking them out before he can “finish the deal” if you know what I mean; and Sidney Tooth falls for the guy because he brings her cinnamon-flavored floss, mouthwash, and the Cadillac of toothbrushes/tongue cleaners (screw the flowers).

I had the most fun reading this story.  The romance is nice, the characters are fun, and the story is appealing.

Grade: B+

Summary:
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A librarian by day and a tooth faery by night, Sidney has absolutely no time to find Mr. Right. Until she flies smack dab into sexy, sun-bronzed Dart Sand, a man who makes her wings a-flutter…and whose allure could get her banished from the Mortal Realm.
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No excerpt available.

“A Little Bit Faery” by Leandra Logan (115-pgs)

I enjoyed the fun of the previous story, but I liked this last story more because it’s more well-rounded.  It has the fun and the suspense nicely balanced with a cute romance.  It’s a very engaging “Ugly Duckling” story about a 1/2 faery-1/2 human girl who does nothing but gross-out faery men manages to find her niche with humans, who find her beautiful and sweet smelling.

Again, the suspense elements seemed a bit overly dramatic given the tenor of the story. But if you roll with it, you’ll still enjoy it.  I wanted to eat the hero with a spoon, though.  Yum.

Grade: A-

Summary:
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Tia is mystified when she strikes out on the Luna faery singles scene, in spite of her hourglass curves and vivacious charm. Then she takes off for Manhattan and lands on the doorstep of a steamy firefighter who sets her soul on fire-and shares a strong connection to her secret past.
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No excerpt available.

This was a very cute anthology (told you I’d use the word a lot).  If you’re a fan of lighthearted faery stories, you’ll like this book.  I can recommend it to anyone who is a fan of these authors or who is looking for a quick poolside read that is just made for a fruity umbrella drink.

Overall grade: B

Sandy M’s review of Wickedly Ever After (Pleasure Emporium, Book 3) by Michelle Marcos
Historical Romance published by St. Martin’s 30 Jun 09

I’ve read and reviewed all of this authors’ books so far. While I enjoyed the first two, When a Lady Misbehaves and Gentlemen Behaving Badly, (see my reviews here and here) for the most part, there were things about them that didn’t quite make them keepers for me. WEA won’t be a keeper either, but I liked it a lot better than the first two books. I can see definite growth in Ms. Marcos’ writing and her character development, the sign of a really good author in the making.

What I do like in these Pleasure Emporium books is that it’s the heroine who always does something that causes conflict, something that causes scandal that has to be taken care of with the hero’s help. I know some readers don’t care for this, but I like the I’ll do anything to make my life better theme, and this time around Athena McAllister is a heroine who takes no prisoners. She’s an older woman in the eyes of society, on the shelf, a spinster, and her last hope for marrying is finally coming true, much to her relief. She’s admired her handsome lord for a while now and is thrilled when he proposes. But that very same night she finds him in the arms of another woman, a woman with ties to the now defunct Pleasure Emporium.

Athena is brokenhearted but not down and out. She takes her destiny and that of other spinster-type ladies of the ton in her own hands, she buys the Pleasure Emporium building, opens The School of Womanly Arts to teach these women how to attract a man and how to keep him happy in intimate ways so they don’t go traipsing off to the nearest widow or prostitute and the women don’t spend their lives alone. She still teaches the usual embroidery and painting, among other things, that a lady of quality should have in her arsenal, but she also adds kissing and other sensual delights to the school catalog. Things go well until a case of mistaken identity takes on a life of its own.

Captain Marshall Hawkesworth is checking out this women’s school after learning his sister attended and she’s now more outspoken about the fact Marshall will be the one to choose a husband for her, and not necessarily one she loves. But upon arrival at the school, Athena mistakes him for the night’s nude model and a roomful of ladies are waiting with bated breath to get his form down on paper. Though the woman is a prickly as can be, Marshall has to admit she has some good points when it comes to women and marriage; he begins to see his sister’s plight in a different way. And he wants to see more of Athena differently.

Eventually the secret of the school makes the newspaper, Athena learns who Marshall really is, and all hell breaks loose, leaving everyone involved hanging in the wind, reputations in tatters. Deciding to work together, however, they come up with a plan that’s quite risky, but the reward in the end will be worth a little pain. Through all of this Athena finally learns what it is she’s been looking for all along, and she couldn’t have been more wrong about what she thought she wanted.  Marshall himself has known from the beginning Athena is the one for him, and he’s going to make sure Athena knows it too, even in the face of his mother’s ire that he would wed someone so beneath their station,.

I really liked all the characters in this book, even the villains, who really weren’t all that bad as far as villains go. Marshall and Athena banter and fight to keep things snappy and moving along. Athena’s partner, Hester, has her own little side story about issues with her husband that are quite pertinent to the story and helps push Athena’s point home concerning women and how society views them. There is an underlying mystery, but it really doesn’t have much to do with the story itself, expect to spur Athena on in her goals.

I’m glad I keep giving Ms. Marcos a chance with each book she writes. It’s rewarding to see an author only better with each successive book.

Grade: A-

Summary:

The Pleasure Emporium was once the bordello of choice for London’s gentlemen elite. But now the ladies have something far more seductive—and scandalous—in store…

An Affair to Remember
After discovering her fiancé in the arms of a courtesan, Athena McAllister comes to a frightful realization: Most men prefer the company of their mistresses to their wives. How can she, and other brides-to-be, become both wife and mistress to a man? In her quest for knowledge, she begs her grandfather to let her start a finishing school for marriageable ladies. There she and her students discreetly invite London’s most notorious rakes to educate them on the art of seducing a man.

A Desire They’ll Never Forget…
Marshall Hawkesworth’s sister has become far too knowledgeable about the ways of sex, and he suspects that her new finishing school is to blame. Marshall poses as a lecturer on several topics, including sensual kissing, and he soon finds Athena to be a most apt pupil. But before he has her school shut down for good, he’s determined to give her a few private lessons she won’t soon forget…

Read an excerpt.

Other books in this series:

This just in…

Christie Craig is breaking into the young adult market with a new series that is romantic, humorous, yet touched with darkness.  Readers can anticipate a fast-paced ride into a world of magic, ghosts, and all creatures of the night

~ The series is tentatively titled Bone Creek Camp.

~ St. Marten’s will publish the books and the release dates TBA when more info is available.

~ The paranormal series features a camp of perceived misfits who just happen to have supernatural abilities. Brought to this haven in the Texas Hill Country, they must learn to accept their own gifts and to be taught to conform into society, but to do so they must first learn to accept each other.

Consider yourself flashed.

Sandy M’s review of Animal Attraction by Charlene Teglia
Contemporary Paranormal Erotic Romance released by St. Martin’s 17 Mar 09

This is one of those books that readers are going to really like or it’s just not for them. There will those who will say there’s not enough story to go along with all that sex.  Sometimes I’m one of those people. There will be others who will say more meat is needed  the storyline. Sometimes I one of those people too. But not this time around.

I’m happy to say that on both those counts Ms. Teglia comes up with a nice balance. Yes, it’s an erotic story, so there should be sex. In most of these types of books the sex is so gratuitous it’s not even funny; and, of course, you don’t get much of a story when that happens. Though Animal Attraction has a basic story of shapeshifters protecting their territory and people from adversarial shifters, it’s the characters and the little extras the author gives the reader that makes this book more fun and enjoyable than all those other so-so books out there.

Chandra has started to feel jumpy, out of sorts lately and she has no idea why. Meeting a mysterious man in the store where she works at the mall is another one of those things she can’t explain, especially because she’s drawn to the stranger. But when he saves her from three different strangers who would do her harm and he tells her to come home, she’s needed there, that only makes things more murky for her. Added to that are her nightmares of images and people that scare her but that also feel familiar.

Taking Zach at his word, when Chandra finds him and her other nocturnal visitor, David, at their home they share with nine other men, she feels like it’s her home too, a place where she finally belongs. And when she eventually learns who and what she is, things seem to make more sense to her. But there are other things she has a hard time getting beyond. Because her parents died when she was young, she’s never known her heritage. She’s a werewolf and her first transition is about to take place, so she has a lot to take in. Chandra will also have to choose a mate, the wolf who will then be alpha of the pack, king of the wolves. Before that happens, though, she has to get through a night of mating and marking with the men of the pack.

In between all this it’s the neighboring panthers, along with rogue wolves, who keep attacking, trying to take what isn’t theirs. As Chandra learns more about herself and her new pack, however, the stronger they become. Her feelings are divided between Zach and David, but she doesn’t want to choose wrong to cause a weakness that can be exploited by the panthers. How can she choose between these two men she loves in so short a time? As her shifting gifts become more apparent, her new-found strength gives her confidence and she’s ready to put an end to the fear and scare tactics the panthers are fond of.

How can Chandra have sex with eleven men in one night and you don’t roll your eyes while you’re reading? Believe me, I thought that was going to happen when I realized where the story was headed at that point in time. All in all, those scenes are quite intense, but Ms. Teglia puts that balance I mentioned earlier into play. The first few scenes with different men do go into a lot of detail and emotion of the moment, but the later scenes are kept to a minimum so you don’t end up in overload. But it’s all enough so that you get to know these characters as they interact with Chandra. If enough care hadn’t been taken for that along the way, I don’t think the whole thing would have gone over nearly as well.

Also, the two heroes, Zach and David, are very alpha and very likable, but Chandra holds her own with them. Sure, they want her at every turn, but they also care for and take care of their own. You see how all the men interact with one another in both human and wolf form. You see how much they need Chandra in their lives to make their pack whole. Chandra herself is a very strong and independent woman. Even before she knew she was a wolf, she was smart and quick witted in times of danger.

I also liked the twists that happen among their pack and also with panthers near the end of the story, things you don’t quite expect. Even a blade of grass takes on a whole new light. There were probably a few things here and there that didn’t work in the story, but they’re so negligible that I don’t even remember what they may have been. This is why I love reading paranormals. The author takes that free rein she’s given and runs with it, but doesn’t go overboard, something I wish I’d see a lot more often when reading erotic romance.

Grade: B+

Summary:
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Chandra Walker always hoped to find out who her birth parents were; she just didn’t expect the truth to put her in the middle of a shapeshifter war with the power to determine the outcome, complicated by a forbidden love for two mates.
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Read an excerpt. (scroll down)

Gwen’s review of Nobody But You (A Grayson Friends Novel) by Francis Ray
Contemporary romance released by St. Martin’s 3 Mar 09

I discovered something when I read this novel: there’s a whole sub-genre of romance novels for NASCAR fans.  I know!  Go figure!  Not that there’s anything wrong with that (a la Seinfeld), but I was surprised.  I’m not such a big racing fan, so the whole “car thing” was a bit lost on me, but I just imagined he was simply a professional athlete of any sport and I could roll with it.  Read on to see what I wasn’t so successful rolling with…

I’m a sports follower, if that sport is American football, that is.  I love that game.  I’ve been known to watch a golf tournament or two, especially when Tiger is playing – it always amazes me how he can twist his body like that.  I’ve watched a quarter or two of basketball when channel surfing.  Actually been to several pro hockey games.  The one sport I’ve never gotten into is auto racing.  It just always seemed like such a “guy” kind of sport and was loud, and circular, and, well, dull.  (Reading this story in the news from last weekend just shows that God loves to prove me wrong.)

So imagine my surprise when I found myself reading a NASCAR romance.  I enjoyed the book.  It wasn’t great – I had real difficulties with the heroine – but it was different.  Sometimes different is good, sometimes different is average.  In this case, for me, it was average +.

The romance in Nobody But You is lukewarm for me.   The hero is a little too forgiving and the heroine is a little too craven.  This is a story about two people who were in love enough once to make it all the way up until their wedding day.  The bride/heroine left the hero literally at the altar because his profession, professional race car driver, scared her.  Sorry.  But no.  That just didn’t wash with me.  I realize she was traumatized by her father dying in a racing accident.  I realize she was further frightened by witnessing a fatal accident on a track.  What I didn’t buy was the whole “left him at the altar” thing.  I just didn’t see that happening.

Then the heroine falls pregnant and keeps the child secret for almost five years?  No.  Nuh-uh.  I cannot bear a romance character who is so ruled by their fears that they turn their backs, and consciences, on what is right.  Running away never solved anything and it makes me a bit nuts to read about someone who who thinks it does, and then to read about someone who totally forgives such cravenness?  ARGH.  Actions have consequences.

On a positive note, the hero is yummy and his large family brings a bit of “real life” into the fantasy of the romance.  I enjoyed reading about his parents’ dilemma and sincerely hope they have a happy ending eventually.  I also thought the secret son introduced an interesting complication.  This all kept the book out of the lower C rankings for me.

If a long simmering passion, NASCAR, and secret babies are your thing, then this is the book for you.  If, however, you want your heroines to be honest and honorable with themselves and others, then perhaps you don’t want to read this book.

Grade: C+

Summary:
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NASCAR star Cameron McBride is poised to win this year’s Sprint Cup. But being a successful race-car driver comes with a price: His own life. Cameron knows that his profession puts him at high risk. Thankfully, his latest visit to the hospital left him intact. That is, until he bumps into Caitlin Lawrence…and is thrust back into his painful past.
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The one-time love of his life who left him at the altar, Caitlin could never accept Cameron’s fast and furious existence. The threat of losing him on the racetrack was just too much for Caitlin-and the young son Cameron never knew he had. Now that this chance meeting has changed their lives forever, will Caitlin and Cameron find a way to recapture what might have been?
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Read an excerpt.

Other related books: