Saturday, December 26, 2015

A Brazen Bargain by Laura Trentham

Lady Minerva Bellingham's younger brother is a spoiled brat.  He became the Duke of Bellingham at a young age and they only had a tutor to raise them.  Simon has gotten himself in with the wrong type of friends.  Viscount Hampton is all too willing to find gambling parlors for Simon to loose his fortune.  Unfortunately for Hampton, Lord Rafe Drummond figures out what is going on.  When Simon looses Minerva's dowry to him, Rafe intends to teach him a lesson.  However, Minerva is the one that visits Rafe the next day.  Rafe dislikes Minerva.  She is his sister's best friend and the one that he felt was a bad influence.  Rafe feels that Simon just needs somebody to give him the guidence he never and and Simon will make a wonderful Duke.  Rafe proposes that Simon and Minerva work for him for three months at his estate.

Minerva not only quickly learns how to be a housemaid, she excels at it.  Every time Rafe finds her in his room, he realizes that after his years of service to the Crown, no decent woman would ever want him.  Minerva slowly starts to fall in love with Rafe even as he attempts to keep her at arms length  When Hampton attempts to destroy everything that Simon has worked for by destroying Minerva, Rafe can no longer remain impartial.


This was the first book by Laura Trentham that I have read.  I was intrigued by the plot synopsis and it did not disappoint from page one to the end.  Rafe is wonderful as the tortured hero.  Minerva is extremely intelligent, witty and not afraid of Rafe.  She actually hates him in the beginning of the novel.  There were points in the novel that I just wanted to smack Simon for being stupid and not seeing Hampton for what he was.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank You.





Friday, December 25, 2015

Her Wicked Proposal by Lauren Smith

Last year, Cedric, Viscount Sheridan courted Anne Chessley, daughter of Baron Chessley.  Cedric did everything in his power to charm her.  She left him cold until he admitted defeat.  Baron Chessley has just died and Anne is getting inundated with fortune hunters.  She turns to the one man that she can trust and proposes marriage to Cedric.

In that past year, Cedric has lost his eyesight in a tragic accident.  Once Cedric agrees to marry Anne, he begins a slow, sensual assault on the ice walls she has built around her heart.  Just when they think they can find their HEA, Cedric discovers why Anne was so frosty to him and almost throws away their marriage.  He is being targeted by two powerful enemies.  Can this member of The League of Rogues escape his doom and find his HEA with the woman he now loves?

I was left breathless.  There was excitement throughout the entire novel.  Cedric has been in the other "A League of Rogues" novels as a supporting character.  While Anne and Cedric are the main characters, the other characters from the previous two books are supporting characters and make the book a very lively read.  I loved how Anne and Cedric slowly fell in love and he discovered that Anne meant the world to him.  This was an enjoyable read.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.




Saturday, December 12, 2015

A Whisper of Desire by Bronwen Evans

Lady Marissa Hawkestone is at a ball where she is expecting Lord Rutherford to propose.  Marissa wants to marry for love and has made that well known in the ton.  So, good old Rutherford has told Marissa he loves her, except he only loves her dowry because his dad has cut him off until he changes.  Maitland Spencer, the Duke of Lyttleton is attending the ball to guard Marissa.  Marissa's brother is one of his best friends and a fellow Libertine Scholars.  The Libertine Scholars are being stalked by a woman that is out of revenge for something their father's did and she is also attacking their families.

Maitland is outside to smoke when he hears Rutherford and his mistress in the bushes.  He is appalled and does not want Marissa to marry Rutherford.  He flirts with Marissa and all but compromises her in the ball room.

The next morning, Marissa wakes up in a strange bed, naked, with Maitland.  They have been drugged and locked in the room by the stalker.  Maitland does what is expected and proposes.  Marissa initally refuses him because she loves Rutherford, until Maitland tells her what he heard through the bushes at the ball.

Once Maitland and Marissa marry, she discovers that the only place that he shows passion is the bedroom.  He has been nicknamed "the Cold Duke" because of his childhood and he is trying not to be the horn-dog that his father was.

I was on the fence with this novel.  I liked Maitland and understood why he was "the Cold Duke".  I thought Marissa was too wild for the period this is set in.  A good Regency girl would have known she had to marry Maitland when they were compromised.  I was also having problems with the "stalker".  All of the Libertine Scholar's fathers are dead.  To go to this extreme for revenge, wow.  Then I got to the point that I reached a plot twist that was so huge, I just stopped reading.  I wasn't expecting it and it changed the whole tone of the novel for me.  It was jaw dropping.  I wanted to yell at Marissa that she should have listened to Maitland or she wouldn't be in that situation.


 

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.


Wednesday, December 9, 2015

In Search of Scandal by Susanne Lord

Charlotte Baker wants to meet Will Repton.  She has read all of the articles on his trip to Tibet that her brother will allow her to read.  She is beside herself when Will visits her brothers house in search of sponsorship.  She feels that he is the one man for her and will do anything to have him.  While Wll wants Charlotte, he also is compelled to find the survivors of the massacre he survived.  Will he trust himself to make the right decision.

This was a novel that got my attention from the first page.  I loved the romance between Charlotte and Will.  It was like Will needed Charlotte to be whole.  I always like books that aren't the typical "girl meets Duke" book and this was one of the best.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

The Duke and Miss Christmas be Amelia Grey

Gwen Prim sees a man attempting to abduct her younger sister and rushes to her rescue.  The man was helping her sister who hurt her leg.  Her Sir Orge turns out to be Crispin, the Duke of Hurst.  Crispin has not met a woman that instantly fell for him until he meets Gwen, and is hit over the head by her basket of Christmas greenery.  Gwen is embarrassed that she attacked and wounded a Duke but she is also attracted to him.

This was a sweet novella and a great Christmas romance.  I liked the characters though I wish that Gwen's suitor, Mr. Tweedy would have gotten mad or just done something.  After all, he had been showing interest in Gwen for six months and had monopolized her at the dinner party.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Friday, December 4, 2015

The Billionaire Heartbreaker by Mandy Baxter

Hockey bad-boy Travis Christensen's behavior has earned his own PR rep.  He either takes advantage of the PR rep or he is benched during the Stanley cup and cut from the team.  After working with Reily Martin, he soon finds that he wants to change his image if only for her.  Reily is determined that her image consulting business succeed.  So far, she hasn't met a client that sh can't handle . . . until now.  Travis does everything to make it impossible to say no.

This novel is more of the Harlequin length, so there isn't a lot of character development.  I did enjoy reading the book.  The chase between Travis and Reily was fun and hot.

In an aside, I am one of those people that checks out an authors website.  I visit author's websites to read first chapters, see if a book is part of a series or if I like the author, what other books the author has written that I have missed.  What amazes me is Mandy Baxter's website isn't updated.  This is the third in a series and the books aren't on the website.  The newest book on the website was published in February, 2015.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.





How to Seduce a Scot by Christy English

Catherine Middlebrook is in London to find a husband to save her family from her mother's spendthrift ways.  She meets Mary Elizabeth Waters at Almak's and they become fast friends.  Mary Elizabeth is in England from the Highlands to also find a husband under the watchful eye of her brother Alex.  Alex does everything to fight his attraction to Catherine, but can he win her over or will duty guide her choice of husbands.

This was a sweet romance.  I loved the banter between Catherine and Alex.  The supporting characters of Mary Elizabeth and Mrs. Middlebrook helped make the novel.

The one thing I was confused about was the changing of names.  There were places that Catherine was referred to as Miss Angel and her mother Mrs. Angel.  I can understand Catherine being referred to as Angel but not her mother being called Mrs. Angel.  Catherine's other suitor is referred to as Lord What's-It, Lord NambyPamby and Lord Namby.  If these were intended to be literary devices, they failed.  The references to Angel & Mrs. Angel seemed more like someone didn't catch a name change in final editing.

Overall, I did enjoy the novel and loved that the author used the word varlet.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.



The Pirate's Tempting Stowaway by Erica Ridley

Clara Halton had sent her daughter, Grace, to England to claim her dowry.  Grace's fiancée, the Earl of Carlisle hired former privateer Captain Blackheart to bring Clara to England.  Blackheart arrives in Clara's village and is told by the postmaster that she has consumption.  When he finds her house, he discovers that the elderly lady he was expecting is closer in age to himself and she doesn't have consumption.  Eventhiugh Clara is sick, she still has gumption and threatens Blackheart with a pistol until he convinces her that he is going to take her to England.  Over the voyage to England, Clara and Blackheart fight their attraction.  After Clara is reunited with her daughter and parents, she realizes that she needs the adventure she had with Blackheart.

This was a delightful addition to the "Dukes of War" series.  I had been hoping that Blakheart would get his own novel and I was not disappointed.  I liked the older hero and heroine and the pure romance of this novel.  The crew of the Dark Crystal were wonderful to Clara.  Blackheart is a true Duke of War and deserved his own HEA.

I received this ARC from Erica Ridley via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much.

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Calling the Play by Samantha Kane

Tyler Oakes is the quarterback for the Birmingham Rebels, the NFL's last chance football team.  He is attempting to resurrect his career.  Something that is difficult given his reputation as an openly bi-sexual football player.  He meets Randi McInish during an undercover drug bust when he is in the wrong place at what turns out to be the right time.  Randi is just looking for a one-night stand and thinks she found it in Tyler.

Brian Mason is a new coach for the Rebels.  Tyler and Brian have known each other since college.  Brian took control on and off the field once he was introduced to Tyler.  Brian had run from a relationship with Tyler back then, but now he isn't afraid of his feelings. When Tyler introduces Brian and Randi, can they find the one woman they want to share.

Samantha Kane is one author that I will drop everything else and read immediately.  I have had this ARC sitting on the shelf for a while and I have re-read it twice.  I love the characters and the dynamics between them.  Randi has a troubled past and has been using sex as an escape.  Once she meets Tyler, everything bad in her past seems to evaporate.  I just love this series and can't wait for the next book.

I received his ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!


The Christmas Wager by Delilah Marvelle

Felicity Annabell Sanders had been raised in the Foundling Hospital since birth as 95428.  At age 16, her uncle discovered clues to her existence and claimed her.  Her uncle, Cederic Barrington, is a wealthy owner of railroads.  Felicitiy's only regret is having to leave her best friend, Marigold.  Marigold is part gypsy and has the gift of seeing the future and has foretold that Felicity will marry a Duke with three lions as his emblem.  At her uncle's house, she meets American millionaire, Maxwell  Redstone.  Maxwell and Felicity meet and almost immediately, sparks fly.

Four years later, the Duke of Ainsley has been courting Felicity and has declared that he will marry by Chrstmas.  Maxwell returns to England after two years in China and still desires Felicity.  Can a rich American win her heart over a Duke?  Throw in a missing key to an attic that can't be found and a ghost that only appears every six years for a wonderful romance.

This wasn't the typical Delilah Marvelle novel.  It was quite a delightful change.  There were plot twists that I didn't see coming.  From when Maxwell and Felicity meet, the banter is non-stop.  There were characters that you loved and one that you loved to hate.  Again, another wonderful cover from Jenn LeBlanc.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.









Sunday, November 29, 2015

The Royal Conquest by Stacy Reid

Payton Peppiwell thought she had found her perfect match when he broke thing off.  Heartbroken, she is staying with the Duke of Calydon when she encounters the Duke's horse breeder, Mikhail Konstantinovich.  Payton is intrigued by Mikhail who slowly seduces her, though he can't handle the touch of another person. After her experience with a titled suitor who stopped talking to her once it was revealed that a relative was illigimate, Peyton wants nothing to do with the nobility.  As their romance develops, will Peyton still want Mikhail when she learns that not only is he titled in England, but he is a prince?  Can Mikhail overcome his traumatic past and learn to touch Peyton and love her?

Stacy Reid is one of my favorite authors and this has been one of my favorite series.  She has such a wonderful way of blending historical romance with erotic romance.  This is one of those books that you need to block out free time to read it because once you start reading, you will not want to stop!  I loved the tortured hero in Mikhail and the strong, determined woman in Peyton.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Christmas with the Billionaire Rancher by Mandy Baxter

Chloe Benson is at Byron Christensen's wake to talk to Nate about donating his father's inheritance to her charity.  When Nate meets Chloe the spark is instantaneous.  After their first encounter, Chloe starts perusing other doners for her charity.  Nate makes Chloe burn with desire and Chloe smooths Nate's war-damaged soul.  When Nate's brother accidentally reveals why Chloe was at the wake, Nate feels betrayed.  Can their relationship survive?

This was the first book by Mandy Baxter that I have read.  I have made a rule to stay away from Christmas themed novels.  I am always cautious when getting a Contemporary ARC because I dislike intently writings in the first person.  I was thrilled to find that his novel was a a hot read from almost the first chapter.

I liked the characters.  Byron had jones the Navy and basically broken off any communication with his father.  He was suffering from post-traumatic syndrome then having his father leave him money that he didn't want.  He immediately clicks with Chloe and she forgets about even hitting him up for a donation to help save her charity.

I liked the book so much that I wanted to know when the next in this series will be published.  I was disappointed to see that the authors website hasn't been updated since 2014.  This book isn't even posted on the website.  I rely on authors websites and book blurbs to make my purchases.  

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Sweetest Scoundrel by Elizabeth Hoyt

Eve Dinwoody, sister to the Duke of Montgomery, is protecting his investment in Hart's Folly, London's premier pleasure garden and theater.  She confronts owner, Asa Makepeace at his lodgings and he isn't prepared for a buttoned up spinster to challenge him.  Eve demands to be involved in the rebuilding of Hart's Folly and the clashes begin.  With the clashes starts a desire between Asa and Eve.  Can Asa help Eve overcome her traumatic past?

I loved the dynamic between Asa and Eve.  He didn't set out to be her hero, but he ended up saving her and himself in the process.  I loved how bad boy Asa tore down the prim and proper wall surrounding Eva and made her feel.  Seeing her transformation and heal was wonderful.  I loved he little snippets of the Duke and his housekeeper.  I can't wait for that novel!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank You.

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Reckless Rendezvous (Reckless Beat 4.5) by Eden Summers

Leah kissed Ryan.  Ryan, her best friend, Reckless Beat rhythm guitarist, and MARRIED.  As band manager, Leah has done everything for Reckless Beat since she became their manager. To preserve her sanity and career, she turns off her cell phone and heads to Las Vegas.  She got a piercing done by Logan during a bridal shower dare between guys and girls.  Leah wants to see if the attraction was mutual and to erase the years of loving Ryan.

First, this is a novella, only 63 pages on my app.  Second, if you haven't read the entire series, go back and read the four books prior, then read this.  After I read the novel, I just sat and processed.  For only being 63 pages, it packed quite a wallop.  Leah's trip to Vegas almost combusted my e-reader.  But, it didn't resolve anything.  I was so torn.  Part of me wants Ryan to resolve his issues and have a HEA with Leah.  Part of me wants Logan (and possibly Cole) to find Leah and have a HEA.  I will just have to wait for book 5.

I received this ARC from Eden Summers.  Thank you for the pleasure of reading this great novella.

Friday, November 13, 2015

The Reluctant Duchess by Sharon Cullen

Two years ago, Lady Sara Emerson's life was shattered by her cousin's brutal and senseless murder.  When Sara began receiving cryptic letters about her cousin's murder, she turns to the one person that can help - the man that was her cousin's fiance, the Duke of Rossmoyne.  Rossmoyne has just returned to England India and is surprised to find Sara seeking his help.  Once he sees the letters, he insists that she move into his home so he can protect her.  He slowly starts to realize that Sara isn't the plain wallflower that he thought she was when he was engaged to her cousin.

As they get closer to the murder, the desire between Sara and Ross grows.  The only thing holding her back is she can't be the Duchess society needs her to be.

I hated having to put this book down.  On one hand, I wanted Ross to realize that Sara was his ideal match.  On the other hand, I wanted to know who killed Sara's cousin.  The characters in the novel were wonderful and the suspense of them finding the killer added to the novel.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.




Miss Featherton's Christmas Prince

Meg Featherton has had bad luck with her suitors the past two seasons. One had sexual proclivities that were not suited for a gently bred lady. The second had a mistress and children. Meg decided to leave love completely out of the marriage equation and marry for suitability.  She has found her perfect candidate, Viscount Throughgood. He is perfect except that his best friend Lord Hawksworth is a dandy and pursuing her best friend Amanda.

Meg is so caught up in protecting her best friend Amanda from Lord Hawksworth that she can't see that Amanda and Viscount Throughgood are perfect for eachother.  While attempting to protect Amanda from Hawksworth, Hawksworth starts to woo Meg.

Last Season, Hawksworth was introduced to Meg, except she fell for Unsuitable Suitor #2 before Hawksworth could pursue her further. Now, they are all headed to Hawksworth's godmother's house party for Christmas and he can make his move.


In the beginning of the book, I kept thinking if Meg didn't want Hawksworth, I would love to have him. He was a wonderful hero.  I felt sorry for Meg and her poor track record with suitors.  The secondary plot of Chuffy and Amanda added to the romance of the novel.

As much as I loved this novel, the plot line of how Hawksworth's father, the Duke, did not like him needed a better resolution or didn't need to be as wishy-washy.  Throughout the novel, we learn how the Duke treated Hawksworth, sent his heir to war, made his eldest half-brother his factor.  Then, we learn that the Duke really loves Hawksworth, he is just afraid to loose him like he lost his first wife.  And, at the end, the Duke resumes being a jerk and attempts to disrupt Hawksworth's marriage to Meg and doesn't attend.  Either have the Duke hate him until the end of the novel or have a wonderful scene where the Duke changes and fixes the relationship.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Monday, November 9, 2015

Merry Christmas Mrs. Robinson by Delilah Marvelle

This novella was originally published in the "All I Want for Christmas is a Duke" anthology.  I love that it is being re-released as a stand-alone.

Jane Robinson wanted to be an opera singer, but as the daughter of the Earl of Chadwick that was an unrealistic dream.  She befriended the quiet Martin Pierce, heir to the Duke of Somerset who encouraged her to reach for her dreams.  When Jane left, her father disowned her.  Jane became the toast of London.  When her mystery admirer became public knowledge, Jane marries man that proves to her that he is her Mister X.  However, her new husband isn't who he claims to be.  Forward eight years.  Jane is living in poverty and Martin is the Duke of Somerset.  Martin has just discovered a great aunt that was disowned years ago and she lives in the same building as Jane.

This is one of my favorite novellas. I love the chemistry between Jane and Martin and they were able to pick their friendship up where they left off.  Normally, I am not a big fan of novellas because there isn't great character development.  This novella had wonderful character development.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Daniel's True Desire by Grace Burrowes

Daniel Banks has just accepted the post of vicar in Haddondale. He is given directions to the former home of a fallen women as a joke by the villagers in the tavern.  Daniel meets Lady Kristen Haddonfield at the cottage as she is planning its renovation.  Kristen is normally seen by others as grouchy, but she is drawn to Daniel's kind heart.  However, Daniel has some well hidden secrets that could hurt their chance for a happily ever after.

This is one of those sweet romance novels that you don't want to ever end. The characters are so well written it's almost if they come to life. I liked how they weren't perfect.  Daniel had a hidden past and Kristen is headstrong yet she is hurting. I loved reading this novel and the HEA was sweet.

I received this ARC from NetGalley via the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.



Sunday, November 1, 2015

The Irresistible Rogue by Valerie Bowman

Daphne Swift has made a list of the the men that meet her requirements for a husband and Lord Fitzwell is her chosen bridegroom.  She is anxiously awaiting his proposal at a ball at her family estate.  There is one thing that is stopping Daphne from marring Lord Fitzwell.  She is already married to Captain Rafferty Cavendish.  Now, all she wants for him to annul their brief marriage.

Daphne married Rafe when she was assisting him in spying for the Crown as his cabin boy. Her brother Donald insisted that they be married before they started the mission to protect Daphne.  The mission is over and Donald was killed by the French.  Rafe needs Daphne's assistance again, this time to capture the villains that killed Donald.


I always enjoy characters that are different.  The Swift family though blue blooded, was involved in spying for the Crown and even Daphne was involved.  I have read the other novels in the series and I liked how the other characters were involved, yet the book stood by it's self.  I was laughing at the antics of Daphne's cousin Delilah in the first part of the novel (she almost took the book over) and was breathless with waiting to see what would happen next with Rafe's mission and his mission to make Daphne his wife in truth.  Another wonderful novel from Valerie Bowman.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Bella and the Beast by Olivia Drake

After living most of her life in areas no proper Englishman (or woman) would even think to visit, Isabella Jones is forced to return to England with her siblings to the house that their father owned.  When Bella's father died in Persia, the last thing he told her was to find Aylwin and to find the map.  Unfortunately, Bella had no way of finding Aylwin until the Countess of Milford showed up on her doorstep with her magical slippers.  The Countess gives her the means of finding the Duke of Aylwin and the treasure her father spoke of.  Miles Grayson, the Duke of Aylwin, has been fighting off matchmaking mamas and their determined daughters for years. When Bella seeks an audience with Miles to be his assistant, it is the start to his fall.

I started this novel and I didn't want to put it down. I love this series and the Countess's magical slippers.  This novel was sensual and had a mystery as a sub-plot that kept the reader guessing.  The characters have depth.  I liked how Bella isn't a fresh faced debutant, but a woman that has lived in some rather rough areas.  She had a backbone that was needed to be strong enough to reach Miles.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Duchess Decadence by Wendy LaCapra

Thea Worthington is the Duchess of Wynchester.  She has not lived with her husband in three years due to a comment he made after losing her baby.  Now, the Duke of Wynchester's brother has resurfaced after long believed dead and Thea needs to save her marriage and husband from his own brother.

I liked this book so much that I immediately preordered it and bought the first two in the series.  I loved the different plot.  The heroine and hero were married before the book started.  The Furies were an integral part of the novel and added to the depth of the book.  The one drawback to the novel was as the third book in the series, I had a hard time following at points because it was the culmination to the series.  (I ended that issue by buying the first two in the series)

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

Sunday, October 11, 2015

First Season / Bride to Be by Jane Ashford

While both "First Season" and "Bride to Be" are republished novels, I enjoyed reading the novels.   They are refreshing, engaging and stand the test of time. My favorite is "First Season" (1999) because it is a second chance at love with love having grown from a friendship. They are both novels that I will read again and again.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.








Thursday, October 8, 2015

Dark Before the Rising Sun by Laurie McBain

This novel was published in 1982.  It is the third in the "Dominic" series and the second one that Dante and Rea are the main characters. I read this book in the late 1980s when the genre was quite different. I find now that my preferences have changed and the time I have to devote to reading a novel 518 pages is null.

My rating is for how I felt when I first read this novel.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.

Chance the Winds of Fortune by Laurie McBain

This novel was published in 1980 and I read it several years after it was published. I remember thinking that Dante Leighton was the hunkiest titled lord turned pirate that had ever sailed the seven seas.  At that time, Laurie McBain was a pioneer of historical romance. The novel is quite dramatic, with lush settings and high energy scenes.  But, Dante and Rea do not meet until almost the halfway point in the book.

This book is being re-released thirty-five years later.  The romance genre has evolved and expanded.  Unfortunately, a Laurie McBain novel can no longer compete with the current genre. We read for an escape from hectic, busy, stressful lives and finding the time to read a novel that is 505 pages.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.

Saturday, October 3, 2015

The Demon's Librarian by Lilith Saintcrow

Francesca Barnes is a librarian that has discovered hidden books in the library she works at.  When she discovers demons preying on the schoolchildren in her city, she opens the books, does her research and goes hunting.  Ryan's partner has gone to the library looking for the books and disappears.  Ryan joins forces with Chess to find his partner and help her survive.

I enjoyed the Sci Fi element joining with romance.  The book was well written.  The author could have included a glossary because the constant use of terms that the reader has to decipher the meaning was very distracting and took away from the book. If there had been a glossary, I would have given it five stars.

I didn't know until I was leaving my review on Goodreads that this is a reissue.  I am glad that the cover was changed.  I would have never picked up the book because it looks like a horror novel to me.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.




Some Like it Scot by Suzanne Enoch

Suzanne Enoch never disappoints.  I have enjoyed this series and was thrilled that Bear got his own HEA.

Catriona MacColl is on the run with her half-sister and is hiding in an abandoned abbey belonging to the Clan MacLawry.  Munro "Bear" MacLawry is the last of his siblings left unwed.  He isn't seeking marriage when fate hands him Catriona in the form of a trouser wearing sharpshooter.  Bear helps Catriona and her sister and ends up helping her fix it up so they can survive the winter.  Catriona is to be the bride to a MacDonald to ensure clan peace, but that isn't what Bear wants.

I liked the characters in this novel.  Bear MacLawry is the best match for stubborn, independent Catriona.  I always enjoy reading about characters from previous novels.  Again, Suzanne Enoch did not disappoint.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Good Earl Gone Bad by Manda Collins

Lady Hermione Upperton is passionate about her horses and joining a driving club.  Jasper Fawley, the Earl of Mainwaring is a friend of Frederick Lisle who married Hermione's friend. He came to her aid when Hermione's father lost her horses in a card game, leaving her membership in the Lords of Anarchy on shaky ground.  Hermione is desperate to get her horses back and in disguise seeks out the gambler that won the from her father, only to find herself involved in a murder.  Jasper wins Hermione in a card game and Hermione discovers that they are quite compatible.

I loved the mystery entwined in this romance.  This is the second in a series, so the characters were familiar, yet it stands well on its own.  The mystery adds a different twist to this novel.  I enjoyed reading this novel.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!





Tuesday, September 22, 2015

The Madness of Lord Westfall by Mia Marlowe

Pierce Langdon, Viscount Westfall, is mad.  His uncle had him committed to Bedlam.  The Duke of Camden had him released because Langdon has an unusual psychic ability and is useful for his Order of the M.U.S.E.  Pierce can hear the thoughts of those around him. It is the duty to protect the Crown from psychic attacks.  Lady Nora Claremont is the mistress of a man that the Order is targeting, but once she meets Pierce, she realizes she wants him.   Nora is the courtesan with the heart of gold, though a broken heart due to her husband's death and parents disowning her.  Can Pierce mend her heart?

I loved the twist on the historical with the psychic abilities of the Order of the M.U.S.E.  Pierce was my favorite type of hero - the tortured hero.  Nora was a woman that didn't think she deserved love and was surprised to find it in Pierce.  I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and loved the twists and surprised that were revealed.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Sunday, September 20, 2015

The Prince and I by Karen Hawkins

Robin Hood meets Warrior Prince Charming in "The Prince and I".   Maksim Romanovin is escorting his grandmother the Grand Duchess Natasha Nikolaevna to Lord Loudan's house party.  His group is stopped by the Highland's version of Robin Hood and his merry men.  The bandits take only what they need.  Max figures out that Robin Hood is really a woman.  As he discovers where Lady Murian lives and why she lives there with a group of old retainers from Loudan's castle, he falls in love with her.

I just loved this twist on Robin Hood.  The characters, from Max and Murain to Tata Natash and Orlov, were well written.  I was cheering on Murian as she supported her old retainers and as she fell in love with Max.  Karen Hawkins has written another wonderful novel.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Saturday, September 12, 2015

The Rogue You Know by Shana Galen

Lady Susanna Derring has always been under her mother's thumb and she is sick of it.  She meets Lady Winthorpe in a ladies' retiring room at a garden party.  Lady Winthorpe hints that her mother has a lost love that she met at Vauxhall Gardens.  Now Susanna wants to go to Vauxhall Gardens in an attempt to connect with her mother.

Gideon Harrow is a thief.  He is attempting one last con against an old partner when he meets Susanna.  She blackmails him into taking her to Vauxhall. As their adventure takes them into the London underworld, she finds that Gideon isn't what he first appeared to be and she is falling in love with him.

This is the second in a series and I loved it just as much as the first.  Susanna has spirit and is not the wilting Ton debutant.  I also liked the secondary love story of Susanna's mother.  Gideon is a swoon-worthy hero.  The HEA resolution is great.  And, the dog is an important part.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much!


Never Resist a Sheikh (An International Bad Boys Romance) by Jackie Ashenden

Move over Harlequin Sheikhs.  Jackie Ashenden's Sheikhs are in a bad boy category of their own.

Felicity Cartwright was in Al-Harah to present her company's proposal to Sheikh Altair when she was taken from the car she was riding in in a bride game.  Sheikh Zakir thought Princess Safira was in the car and was surprised when he got American Felicity.  Zakir needs a wife and heirs and Felicity will do.

Zakir is a soldier that never thought he would be Sheikh until his brother killed his bride then himself in a fit of madness.  He is a man that is a stranger to love.  Felicity is a genius.  At twenty-four she has started her own company. Her parents are people that never should have reproduced.  Her dad wanted a boy and her mother wanted to make her dad happy.  When Felicity was not the perfect debutante and didn't find the perfect son-in-law, her parents got a divorce.  Zakir likes Felicity's fearlessness and how she will not back down from him.  

The only thing that would have made this novel better was Felicity introducing Zakir, the king of his own country to her parents.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

Possession of the Soul by Trinity Blacio

I was drawn to this novel because the cover is also used on one of my favorite author's website.  Somebody just added a dragon's head.

After reading the first chapter, I put it down.  I did not like it.  This ended on the DNF pile.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Claimed by the Mate by Kate Douglas and A. C. Arthur

This is a 2-in-1 shape shifter romance.

Feral Passions by Kate Douglas

Cherry's sister Christa and her BFF Stephanie convince Cherry to go on a week vacation to a resort named Feral Passions.  The resort only books six spots and only for women per week.  It is also a preserve for wolves.  Traker Jakes and his pack have opened Feral Passions to find their mates.  When Cherry's group arrives, Brad and Cain are immediately attracted to Cherry.  Cherry has had one experience with a boy in high school who was using her to get a good grade in a math class.  After he posted pictures on the internet, she does not trust men.  She starts to trust Brad and Cain while noticing that the wolves that hang out with her, and have their same eye color, are never around when Brad and Cain are with her.

I enjoyed this novel.  The sex scenes were hot and part of the ending was unexpected.  I like that it was a group of characters that got their HEA   I am hoping that this is the first in a series.

The Alpha's Mate by A. C. Arthur

So, I am revising my review.  When I first read the book, I was relatively new to shifter novels and found this one was way different.  I decided to go back and read it.  And, was I blown away.

There isn't a cookie cutter mold for shifter novels.  Every author has a different take.  I love the spin off of Greek mythology and the different types of shifter packs.  I love how the characters have more of an edge.  Kira was an awesome, strong alpha female.

THANK YOU!!!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.


Sunday, September 6, 2015

The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne

I was hooked from the beginning and didn't want the novel to end.  This was an adult Beauty and the Beast complete with the supporting characters.  I love a tortured hero and the strong heroine that save him.  Farah and Dorian are wonderful characters and the supporting characters added to the dynamic of the novel.  This is one of the books that you put on your "to read again" shelf and re-read when you need a novel with intrigue and an awesome HEA.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.   Thank You!

Saturday, September 5, 2015

Broken Play by Samantha Kane

Samantha Kane sets the bar for historical erotic romance and just set the new standard for contemporary erotic romance with Broken Play.

The Birmingham Rebels are the worst team in the NFL.  They are where players go when they are washed up.  Cass Zielinski is the center for the team and his best friend Beau Perez is the tight end.  Part of Cass's deal with the Rebels is Beau goes everywhere he goes.  He had pulled Beau out of his addiction and has supported Beau since.  As a pair, they are notorious for a sex tape that had gone viral.  As the captain of the team, Cass is determined to make the Rebels the best team in the league.

Marian Tredwell has made the jump from coaching college football to coaching in the NFL.  She is well aware of the sex tape and is finding it hard to be in the same room with Cass and Beau and the images from the tape playing in her head.  Marian has a scarred past herself along with a betrayal by her father.  Cass understands that there is something in her past that is troubling her, but he is taking things way too slow for Beau.  Once they get past her defences, the heat between the three of them is released.

I was thrilled to see that Samantha Kane had a new contemporary novel coming out but I was reluctant to pre-order at first because I am not a football fan.  I decided to order it and I am glad I took that chance.  I am now a Birmingham Rebels fan.  There were parts of the book that I read two or three times.  This isn't just a quickie erotic novel.  There is depth to the characters and their relationships with each other.

The next Birmingham Rebels book is about Tyler, one of my favorite supporting characters.  I am waiting for Donnie's book because there are questions about Marian's father that I hope get answered.

If you liked this novel, check out the Brothers in Arms series.

Sunday, August 30, 2015

Bearing It All by Vonnie Davis

Ronan Matheson has escaped to his remote Highland retreat.  He has let his inner bear out when Anisa Brosseau parachutes onto the bear.  When he is back in human form, Ronan is intrigued by Anisa, whom he knew in Paris years ago.  Ronan has to figure out if Anisa is telling the truth about being framed for treason.  When her enemies find her, Ronan does everything to protect his woman.

I will admit that I was hooked at "A Highlander's Obsession".  I hadn't read any shifter romance novels before and I was in love with Creighton.  (He is on my top 10 list of book boyfriends.)  I received the ARC for "Bearing It All" and I gave a happy squeeee.  Ronan is the quiet brother.  His father's death hit him hard and he is reluctant to find his mate.  I liked how Anisa reached out to Ronan's inner bear.  This novel had hot sex, intrigue and humor.  Nothing like Effie and her pink baffies to liven up a novel!   And Effie reading to Anisa had me laughing so hard my kids thought I was crazy.  I have the publish date marked on my calendar so I can buy it and I am waiting for Hot Cop Kendric to get his own novel! This series has been wonderful.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much!!




What To Do With a Duke by Sally MacKenzie

Isabelle Catherine Hutting is the eldest daughter of the vicar of Loves Bridge.  All she wants is quiet so she can write her novel in peace.  She thinks she finds the answer to her problem when Marcus, the Duke of Heart arrives in Loves Bridge.  Marcus has to find a new Spinster for Spinster House and Cat wants to be the Spinster. He lives under a curse that has affected his family since the 3rd Duke got Isabelle Dorring pregnant then married another.  No Duke shall live to see his heir's birth.  Now, Marcus is stuck in Loves Bridge.  Cat's independent spirit and wit captivate him to the point where he wants to forget about the curse and love Cat.  Can true love end a centuries old curse?

Sally MacKenzie has written another wonderful novel.  On one side it is engaging and humorous and the other side is a sensual romance building between Cat and Marcus. I hated having to stop reading when I had to go to work and would find myself wondering what was going to happen next.  I loved the characters in the novel from Cat and Marcus to Nate and Alex (Marcus's cousin and friend) to Cat's siblings.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Deeper in Sin by Sharon Page

Sophie Ashley is doing the best she can to provide for her son she bore out of wedlock by attempting to become a courtesan.  She sneaks into a Cyprian Ball to find a protector and meets Fitzwilliam Montcleif better known as the Duke of Caradon or Cary to his friends.

Cary has been reclusive since he returned from the war in Ceylon where he was held as a prisoner of war.  Before he left for Ceylon, Cary was a rake, sewing his wild oats throughout London and his past buried.  The war has triggered memories of what happened when he was five.  He knows he needs to find a wife and get an heir so he lets his friends take him to the Cyprian Ball.  While Cary desires Sophie, he is unable to complete the act due to his tragic past.  They must battle a ghost from his past to find true love.

I was hooked from the first chapter.  The characters were different.  Sophie wasn't a London debutant looking for the Duke and Cary wasn't the perfect Duke.  Both had flaws.  I truly enjoyed reading this novel.  It was the perfect balance between sensual and erotic.  The resolution of Cary's nightmare from when he was kidnapped at age five was quite a surprise.  And the final resolution was perfect.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Lady Emily's Exotic Journey by Lillian Marke

Lady Emily Tremaine and her parents along with her friend Lady Julia are traveling to Constantinople to see if the area can support a railroad. At the British Embassy they meet David Oliphant and Lucien Chamberton.  There is chemistry between David and Julia and Lucien and Julia.  David realizes that there are people that won't despise him because of his heritage. As they journey, Lucien and Julia fall in love and she has to trust him.

This is the second book in this unique series.  I liked this book because like the first it doesn't take place among the drawing rooms and balls of the Season.  There is adventure in the novel and the heroine isn't a simpering miss.  While Emily and Lucien are the main characters, the secondary characters play an important part in the novel, a story within a story.  It makes the novel an enjoyable read.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!



A Radical Arrangement by Jane Ashford

I received this book as an ARC.  I liked the cover and the description looked promising.  However, I found the characters so obnoxiously too over the top that I wanted to jump in the book and slap the heroine.  For a moment, I thought I had gone back to the 1980's and the squeaky clean Regencies that I avoided then!  I wasn't too far off because this novel was originally published in 1983.  This novel proves that even Regencies have evolved.  Sorry, after I fell asleep reading, I just could not complete it.

I received this novel as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Sunday, August 23, 2015

The Brigadier's Runaway Bride by Erica Ridley

Sarah Fairfax had joined the man she loved in Bruges during a short leave before he went to battle.  Sarah ended up pregnant and Edmund died during the battle.  She is almost nine months pregnant and marrying the Duke of Ravenwood when Edmund crashes the wedding.  Edmund Blackpool was left for dead on the battlefield.  He only survived by thinking of Sarah.  Now, he has returned to England and finds his fiancee pregnant and marrying one of his best friends.  After Sarah disappears, can he find her and salvage their relationship?  Can Sarah get past her deepest fears to build a live with Edmund?

When I got this ARC, I "put down" the novel I was reading and immediately started reading "The Brigadier's Runaway Bride."  I was thrilled to get the ARC because I have anxiously been waiting for it.  I even have it on pre-order.

I have loved this series since the beginning and have been waiting for Sarah to get her own HEA.  Her anguish at loosing her fiancee and ending up pregnant has been felt throughout the previous novels.  Finally, sweet Sarah gets her man!  The characters are well drawn and very likeable.  Even though Edmund has been through battle and carries both the physical and emotional scars, he comforts Sarah through her anxiety about their finances.

Again, this was another wonderful novel by Erica Ridley.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Sunday, August 16, 2015

Tremaine's True Love by Grace Burrowes

Grace Burrowes new series revolves around the Haddonfield family and the sisters of the Earl.  The eldest sister, Nita, is the calm voice of the family seeing to the ills of the estate and village.  When Tremaine St. Michael visits her brother, the Earl of Bellefonte, to buy some Murano sheep, he is encouraged to stay two weeks because he is an eligible bachelor.  Tremaine who is all business falls for Nita and slowly starts to win her heart.

I loved the characters in this book from Nita and Tremaine to Nita's family.  It was a lively book that engaged your heart.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.






Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Undercover with the Earl by Robyn DeHart

Evelyn Marington is a simple country girl that just wants to write, she doesn't want to get married.  All of the men that are interested are as old as her father or are sixteen years older than her and have eleven children.  She is at a dance when her cousin, Ellis arrives with Bennett Haile, Earl of Somersby.  Both are members of the Brotherhood of the Sword and sworn to guard the Queen.  They are on a mission to find a stand-in for the Queen while she recuperates from a sprained ankle.  Evie looks enough like the Queen to be her fill in.  Once they recruit her, she has to spend time with Bennett.   When Bennett sees Evie, he thinks she is captivating and the comeliest of all of the ladies present at the ball.  However, because of his rather large size and lack of social skills, he fights his attraction to her.  When her life is threatened, Bennett realizes that he does love her.

Robyn DeHart started her "Brotherhood of the Sword" series off with a great novel.  The characters were wonderful.  Evie was the kind of character that you would want to be friends with.   She absolutely made this novel.  She was a strong and determined heroine that feels that she isn't as beautiful as her sisters.  (I love at the end where her sisters tell her that they are envious of her hair and figure.)  Poor Bennett has self esteem issues because he is "very large".  He found his former fiancee in HIS bed with another man.  Bennett is such a brooding sexy hero.  And, for minor characters, Evie's mother was a hoot.

As much as I loved this novel, I was rather disappointed with the rather abrupt ending.  It ends with Bennett proposing.  No epilogue, just proposal, her accepting and them kissing.  Bam, just done and fancy swishie clipart thing to end the book.  I know this is the first in a series, so I am hoping that the next book takes up where this abruptly ended because the whole thing with Lord Morton and the plot against the Queen wasn't resolved.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!







Monday, August 10, 2015

A Lady's Guide to Skirting Scandal by Kelly Bowen

Viola Hextall's brother is sending her to America after she attempted to compromise his best friend at a ball.  He says she need some "life experience".  She is bored with her chaperones that won't let her do anything fun on the ship when she sees the ship's doctor Mr. Nathaniel Shaw.  

This was a quick read, under 50 pages.  I enjoyed knowing what happened to Viola after her failed attempt to snag Will Somerhall.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  

Friday, July 31, 2015

Her Stepbrothers Demands by Trinity Blacio

I really liked the premise of this book because it incorporated all of my "guilty pleasure" reads.  But, after reading the book, I felt like it was either the second or third in a series or somebody had taken the beginning and end off of a book that was deemed way too long and just left the middle.  I would like the rest of the book.

There were a long list of things that were introduced into the plot then just left hanging.  How about the nightmare man, her father and her business, and the numerous references to R.D.'s missing son.  And don't get me started on the how RD and Logan just snatch her off of the plane!  Was this supposed to be set prior to 9/11?  How to two guys get past security, onto the plane and remove a protesting woman?  And no passengers stood up to help?

There was a reference to "the car phone" and Logan threw Jasmine's phone out the window that cost her "close to a grand".  Again, when was this novel set?

Please, can we have the beginning and end to this novel?

It still was entertaining and a fun read and I will purchase it, but PLEASE, PLEASE give us the rest of the book!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.









Thursday, July 30, 2015

The Earl Claims a Bride by Amelia Grey

Harrison Thornwick was the youngest son and his brother the Earl had a young son.  The last thing he ever expected was to become the Eael of Thornwick.  And because of his cousin's support of the French, Harrison has drawn the attention of the Prince.  He is given the ultimatum to either marry Miss Angelina Rule or go to Newgate for five years for dueling.

Miss Angelina Rule is a beautiful debutant in her first Season.  She has dreamed of Captain Maxwell since he left for India when she was sixteen.  Now he has returned to England and she wants to make a match with him.  Unfortunately, her father has gambled away everything and has begged his cousin by marriage, the Prince for help.  If Angelina marries Harrison, Mr. Rule's debt is paid.  Harrison doesn't want to marry Angelina, but when he sees the fiery beauty, he changes his mind.

I loved the plot and the characters of this novel.  Harrison grew up, but still retained his spirit from his wild youth.  He is one of my favorite heroes I. The books I have read recently.  Angelina just wants to save her father and still marry Captain Maxwell.  I know the series is "Heir's Club", but I hope that Captain Maxwell gets his own novel or novella.  There is more to his character and I felt sorry for him when the woman that he has been dreaming of is lost to him.  The one thing I hate about a book like this is when it is over!


I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The Best of Both Rogues by Samantha Grace

Two years ago, Eve Thorn was left at the alter by Benjamin Hillary.  Ben left England on one of his ships.  Now, he is back but Eve has a man that she is going to marry.  Ben will stop at nothing to have Eve back.

I always love reading a Samantha Grace novel because I know it will hold my attention from cover to cover.  The characters were so well written.  I was immediately rooting for Ben in his campaign to get Eve back.  There was something more to Sir Jonathan and when it was revealed, I was surprised.  I hope that he gets his own book.  I was rather irritated to the almost constant reference to Charlotte and after all the droning on, it was resolved quickly and with little fuss.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Relentless Lord by Amy Sandas

Hannah Walpole has been forced by her parents to return to England from the African continent she she can have a London Season.  She does not fit in with English Society nor her own cousins.  Her debuet was held back because her uncle didn't think she was ready.  At a house party, she is having a wardrobe malfunction - her garter clip has twisted and is pinching the back of her knee.  She attempts to find the WC, but finds Lord Miles Whitely.  Hannah can't reach the offending garter clip so Miles volunteers to help.  Hannah's cousins have warned her about Miles and she vows to stay away from her.  Something about Hannah intrigues Miles.  Could it be that she is the only lady not fanning herself in the extreme heat or isn't sweating?  It is odd the things that start a romance.

I was so sad when the novella came to an end.  Hannah was such strong, independent and unique character that I wish there had been more to the novel.  Miles was charming and seductive.  This is one of the best novellas that I have read.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Once Upon a Fairy Tale: A Collection of 11 Fairy Tale Inspired Romances by Danielle Monsch et. all

I was intrigued by the premise.  Take the fairy tales we have grown up with and change them into romances.  Well, the idea was great, but I stopped reading after the first two books.  This may be the novel for someone else, just not for me.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Den of Sin Series

Den of Sin is a multi-authored series that revolves around a fictional hotel called "The Beaudelaire".  This is the fourth "Season" of books.  This season revolves around the Beaudelaires, the family that owns and operates the hotel.  I received a bundle of three of the five books in this season to review.  I requested it because I was intrigued with the concept of the connecting books and their themes.


One in Waiting - Holley Trent

Emilie Beaudelaire hasn't been back to New Orleans since she left seventeen years ago.  Her parents and step-parents didn't want to deal with the secret that she was carrying  Now, she has returned to New Orleans because her uncle is in the hospital near death.  Emilie stays at her family hotel during one of the "Den of Sin" events.

Leary Marshall is the first baseman for the minor league team, The Reedsville Roosters, is at the hotel because Emilie's brother Henri is one of the team sponsors.  He doesn't know he is about to run into his high school sweetheart that he last heard from via her family's lawyers after she ripped out his heart and stomped on it.  Leary has been in a committed relationship with the right fielder for the team, Ren Thompson, for the past year.  When Leary and Emilie meet again at the hotel, sparks fly.

After Leary and Ren receive a five game suspension, they turn to Emilie's ranch and the heat between the three intensifies.  "One in Waiting" was a hot book!  Emilie is strong on one hand and yet damaged on the other.  I loved the strength and confidence that Emilie has grown into thanks to the family that raised her after she left New Orleans.  Yet, she is still damaged due to her parents.

His Every Touch - Mel Blue

Lucian Beaudelaire is part of the hotel owning, sex party hosting New Orleans family.  He has been called home when his uncle is placed in a medically induced coma.  Lucian is a lawyer and in the middle of a big case so he brings his paralegal, Courtney Michaels with him.  Courtney has lusted after her boss for the past year and now that they are in New Orleans and at his family's hotel, the sparks fly!  But, what do they do when they have to return to the real world?

Oh my goodness, Lucian is a hunk in a business suit.  I loved the chemistry between Courtney and Lucian.  Lucian has been the star of Courtney's fantasies for the past year and he has been attracted to her as well.  I liked how it Courtney's divorce is just mentioned not beat into your head.  (Yea, she put her husband through school then he divorced her.)  I have read books that it was almost a secondary character.  It is just used to explain why she is reluctant to keep the romance going after they return home.  I loved the writing style and found the book hot.  My poor e-reader is melting from just the first two books!

Rekindling the Flame - L.V. Lewis

Sabine Beaudelaire has been estranged for six months from her fiance of eight years because he wants to get married and start a family immediately.  Due to her upbringing, Sabine has commitment issues.  She has flewn back to New Orleans when her uncle Sebastian was put into a medically induced coma.  Sabine is staying at her family hotel and needs to send a large file back to her start up in California.  She needs help from the hotel's Hot IT Guy.  Sabine is intrigued by him and asks him to come to her room later that evening.  When he arrives, she is just getting permanently dumped by her fiance.  And, Hot IT Guy is none other than her brother's best friend Xander "Fish" Fishbourne.  

There is nothing like a hot geek!  Xander has lusted after Sabine since they were younger and now he is getting his chance.  He also has to get past Sabine's commitment issues.  This novel was smoking hot.  I enjoyed reading it.  It was nice to see that Xander had a family side with his niece and nephews.  

I received a copy of all of these novels as one ARC.  Reviews are posted for each book

Rekindling the Flame by L.V. Lewis Part of The Den of Sin Series

Sabine Beaudelaire has been estranged for six months from her fiance of eight years because he wants to get married and start a family immediately.  Due to her upbringing, Sabine has commitment issues.  She has flewn back to New Orleans when her uncle Sebastian was put into a medically induced coma.  Sabine is staying at her family hotel and needs to send a large file back to her start up in California.  She needs help from the hotel's Hot IT Guy.  Sabine is intrigued by him and asks him to come to her room later that evening.  When he arrives, she is just getting permanently dumped by her fiance.  And, Hot IT Guy is none other than her brother's best friend Xander "Fish" Fishbourne.  

Den of Sin is a multi-authored series that revolves around a fictional hotel called "The Beaudelaire".  This is the fourth "Season" of books.  This season revolves around the Beaudelaires, the family that owns and operates the hotel.  I received a bundle of three of the five books in this season to review.  I requested it because I was intrigued with the concept of the connecting books and their themes.


There is nothing like a hot geek!  Xander has lusted after Sabine since they were younger and now he is getting his chance.  He also has to get past Sabine's commitment issues.  This novel was smoking hot.  I enjoyed reading it.  It was nice to see that Xander had a family side with his niece and nephews.  

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

His Every Touch by Mel Blue Part of the Den of Sin Series

Lucian Beaudelaire is part of the hotel owning, sex party hosting New Orleans family.  He has been called home when his uncle is placed in a medically induced coma.  Lucian is a lawyer and in the middle of a big case so he brings his paralegal, Courtney Michaels with him.  Courtney has lusted after her boss for the past year and now that they are in New Orleans and at his family's hotel, the sparks fly!  But, what do they do when they have to return to the real world?

Den of Sin is a multi-authored series that revolves around a fictional hotel called "The Beaudelaire".  This is the fourth "Season" of books.  This season revolves around the Beaudelaires, the family that owns and operates the hotel.  I received a bundle of three of the five books in this season to review.  I requested it because I was intrigued with the concept of the connecting books and their themes.


Oh my goodness, Lucian is a hunk in a business suit.  I loved the chemistry between Courtney and Lucian.  Lucian has been the star of Courtney's fantasies for the past year and he has been attracted to her as well.  I liked how it Courtney's divorce is just mentioned not beat into your head.  (Yea, she put her husband through school then he divorced her.)  I have read books that it was almost a secondary character.  It is just used to explain why she is reluctant to keep the romance going after they return home.  I loved the writing style and found the book hot.  My poor e-reader is melting from just the first two books!

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

One in Waiting by Holly Trent Part of the Den of Sin Series

Emilie Beaudelaire hasn't been back to New Orleans since she left seventeen years ago.  Her parents and step-parents didn't want to deal with the secret that she was carrying  Now, she has returned to New Orleans because her uncle is in the hospital near death.  Emilie stays at her family hotel during one of the "Den of Sin" events.

Leary Marshall is the first baseman for the minor league team, The Reedsville Roosters, is at the hotel because Emilie's brother Henri is one of the team sponsors.  He doesn't know he is about to run into his high school sweetheart that he last heard from via her family's lawyers after she ripped out his heart and stomped on it.  Leary has been in a committed relationship with the right fielder for the team, Ren Thompson, for the past year.  When Leary and Emilie meet again at the hotel, sparks fly.

After Leary and Ren receive a five game suspension, they turn to Emilie's ranch and the heat between the three intensifies.

Den of Sin is a multi-authored series that revolves around a fictional hotel called "The Beaudelaire".  This is the fourth "Season" of books.  This season revolves around the Beaudelaires, the family that owns and operates the hotel.  I received a bundle of three of the five books in this season to review.  I requested it because I was intrigued with the concept of the connecting books and their themes.

"One in Waiting" was a hot book!  Emilie is strong on one hand and yet damaged on the other.  I loved the strength and confidence that Emilie has grown into thanks to the family that raised her after she left New Orleans.  Yet, she is still damaged due to her parents.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!




Monday, July 13, 2015

Lady Beresford's Lover by Ella Quinn

Vivian, Countess of Beresford has been emotionally damaged by her marriage.  After her husband's death she is finally free to live.  Invited to London for the Little Season by her cousin Clara, Vivian meets the dashing Rupert, Earl of Stanstead.  Rupert wants to find his true love and was pursuing a young lady when the lady's father told him he was too young.  Hurt, Rupert wants to give up on love until he meets Vivian.

This book is going on my "to read again" shelf!  Rupert is such a wonderful hero.  He is so patient with Vivian who goes through a majority of the novel thinking she is deformed thanks to her jerk of a dead husband.  The sub-plot of Nick and Silvia's romance just added to the novel.  I wish they had gotten their own book.  But, it was nice to have a character that I thought was going to be a villain be a good guy.  The characters from previous novels are woven in so seamlessly.  I truly enjoyed reading this novel and didn't want it to end.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!


Danger Wears White by Lynne Connolly

While this isn't normally a period of history that I read about, I found that the book was well written with political intrigue as well as romance between Imogen and Tony.  It was enthralling from beginning to end.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.









Saturday, July 11, 2015

Deception (The Demon Hunters #2) by A.S. Fenichel

Lillian Dellacourt has come a long way from the girl sold to the highest bidder.  Fate made her a demon hunter and member of The Company.  Dorian Lambert is the son of an exiled French nobleman that has been sent to keep track of Lillian after a semi-disastrous outcome of a battle with the demons.  Lily needs to learn to trust Dorian because her partner is injured and the demon master has returned to Edinburgh.

This novel isn't what I normally read.  However, the historical romance part grabbed my attention.  After the first chapter, I was hooked and didn't stop reading until I was done.  What I thought I would not like, I ended up being blown away.

Lillian was a big part of why I liked the book.  It is nice to see a heroine that has emotional scars that keep her from trusting and developing a relationship with a man.   Lillian has so much baggage she has a full set of Amelia Earhart luggage (including train case).  She also can kick some serious demon butt!  I thought she was an amazing heroine.   Dorian is the type of man that any sensible girl would fall for except for Lillian.   Slowly, Dorian becomes a part of her trust zone and seduces her.  There are some twists that I did not see coming and one that especially left me screaming in frustration.  But, it added to the quality of the novel.  It is the second in the series, but read very well as a stand alone.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much!

The Art of Sinning - Sabrina Jeffries

This book is the first novel in the Sinful Suitors novel.  I was thrilled when I received the ARC because Sabrina Jeffries is one of my all time favorite authors.  I was excited that she has a new series.  However, when I started reading, I felt like I was given the middle of a book.  

I was extremely disappointed and got frustrated with the book because the first several chapters are rehash from a previous book.  I needed to put this book down an re-read the other book to understand what was happening.  Not how you start a new series.  Because of how frustrated with attempting to remember parts of a plot from a book that I had read months ago, when I read so many books, I stopped reading about chapter seven.

I did like the characters of Yvette and Jeremy.  When I have more time, I will read the other book, then read this one.  

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Mistress of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle

Maybelle Maitenon is the granddaughter of the renowned French courtesan, Madame Therese.  She was raised by her grandmother since her father died when she was twelve.  While other girls had to sneak obscene books, Maybelle was forced to sneak Voltaire.  While Maybelle was a virgin at twenty-one, she was not innocent. 

Maybelle dreams of seeing the pyramids, but hr grandmother convinces Maybelle to delay her trip and help her with the opening of her "School of Gallantry".  Maybelle and her grandmother are attending one of the few society events they are invited to when Maybelle meets and seduces the Duke of Rutherford.  Maybelle and Rutherford are unable to fight their attraction despite they are totally inappropriate for each other, or so they think.  When her grandmother faints at a soiree, Maybelle has to open and run the School by herself. 

 When I was browsing NetGalley and saw that Delilah Marvelle had revamped the opening novel of "The School of Gallantry" series, I immediately requested it.  Then, I stopped reading what I was in the middle of to read this book.  Delilah Marvelle never disappoints.  This novel is tastefully sexy and witty.  

I absolutely love the historical erotica with strong characters.  Maybelle is a strong woman that has had to deal with heartbreak at a young age.  She doesn't want to marry and realizes that she will never be accepted by the ton because of who her grandmother is.  Rutherford wants to be seen by the ton as a gentleman after the scandal his father created.  As the story develops, Maybell and Rutherford discover more about each other and themselves. Madame Therese is a great secondary character.    

Another of my favorite authors, Jenn LeBlanc, is the photographer for the new edition. 


 I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much!


How to Marry a Royal Highlander by Vanessa Kelly

Eden Whitney has been involved in a scandal that has caused her to be snubbed by the ton.  It wasn't bad enough that she was caught kissing an aging rake with limited fortune, but at at one of the most popular balls, she got into an argument with her nemesis from school.   Edie is now being sent to the Scottish wilderness in the middle of winter.  Escorting Edie and her mother is Alasdair Gilbride, the heir to a Scottish earldom.  Alec had left Scotland years ago to escape an arranged betrothal.  Now, he has to return with Edie.  

I always love reading a novel by Vanessa Kelly.  They simply do not disappoint.  I loved Alec an Edie and how their relationship developed from dislike to love and the challenges they faced.  There was plenty of bantering that added humor to the novel.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

Never Loved by Charlotte Stein

I am not a big fan of first person POV and this book is why. I hate when I read a synopsis that makes the book sound like five stars then I open the book and wish that the person that wrote the synopsis was the one writing the dang book. Give me a clue that the book is written in first person POV.
Sorry, Bea that your life sucked and your brother didn't have his stuff together. I am just sad because there could have been so much done with Serge if Bea had just kept her inner monologues quiet!
While the cover is hot, Serge has TATTOOS. What is missing from the cover photo?! How hard is it to photoshop some?
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.



In the Spinster's Bed by Sally MacKenzie

"In the Spinster's Bed" is a romantic start to the "Spinster House" series.  Twenty years ago, Lord William Wattles encountered Bell Frost in a Grecian folly on his father's estate reading "Fanny Hill" by candlelight.   That started their brief yet torrid affair that lasted until William's father got him re-admitted to school.  Bell was left pregnant and that wasn't the thing to do for a vicar's daughter.

Now, twenty years later, Bell is known as Annabelle Frost and is living in Spinster House in village of Loves Bridge as the librarian.  William is attempting to escape London and the scandal his wife is causing.

After twenty years, will they finally find happiness?

I am a huge fan of Sally MacKenzie.  I was not disappointed with "In the Spinster's Bed."  The characters were well drawn.  I felt so bad for William and how empty his life was.  Bell was a character the you would want to be friends with.  The animals, in this case, Poppy the cat, always add comic relief to the novels.  I just wish there was some sort of confrontation scene between Bell and her father after she got her HEA.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you very much!!!





Sunday, June 21, 2015

The Billionaire's Intern, Part 1 by Maisey Yates

This novel is a four part serial.  I have only received part one to review.

Addison Treffen has been groomed to be the perfect society daughter and wife. Her life has just been turned upside down when her father was murdered in front of her by a sniper.  After it had been discovered that his law firm that was supposed to help women was just a front for a prostitution ring.  Her sorority has politely told her to leave and the boyfriend to be husband that was picked for her is in Bermuda.  Her brother Addison helps her go of the grid by finding her an unpaid internship with Logan Black, CEO of Black Properties.

Maisey Yates is one of my all-time favorite Harlequin writers.  Heck, I would read anything that Maisey Yates wrote.  Though this was the first of a four part serial, I loved it and was hooked once I got past the first part.  It felt like I was starting a book in the middle.  I did find out that Addison's brother has his own book.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you

The Alpha's Hunger by Renee Rose

Ashley Bell meets the CEO of the company she works for while lying on the floor of her cubicle attempting to get rid of a migraine.  Ben Stone is instantly drawn to Ashley but he knows he can't have her because she isn't a shifter.  He has taken over his brother's company after his death (that Ben feels responsible for) but can't take over his pack.  Due to his father's actions, he carries a death threat over his head.  Since he can't have Ashley, he does the next best thing and creates a position as his personal assistant (which even he finds odd because he hates being around people).  Shortly after Ashley starts her new job, her twin sister is kidnapped and the price of her ransome is to destroy Ben.  As they work together to solve who wants to destroy Ben and who has her sister, the sparks and spankings fly.  

I will admit that one of my guilty pleasures is shifter romance.  And this novel did not disappoint.  For something I chose at random because I didn't want to read a historical, this was awesome.  I enjoyed the sexual tension between the characters and at several points in the book, I was worried that my e-reader was going to combust!  I hope that this isn't the only shifter romance that the author writes.  I would love to see more.

This novel isn't for the faint of heart.  Ben is an Alpha dominant male that likes to spank and there is plenty.

I received this novel as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.







Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Dare to Love by Carly Phillips

Ian Dare's world came crashing down when he discovered that his father had another family on the side.  Ian steps up and is the responsible older brother/father figure to his younger siblings.  He meets Riley Taylor at a family party and discovers that her best friend is his half-brother.  The sparks fly instantaneously between Ian and Riley.

I stumbled upon Dare to Love when browsing my library's e-book catalogue.  It was amazing!  Ian has been scarred by his father's betrayal to his family.  Riley has her own emotional scars and needs to learn to trust.  I loved the rebuilding of family that was starting to take place at the end.

Half way through the book, I wanted to buy it.  What I liked is the novels are reasonably priced at $3.99 at the B&N site.  And, the second novel, Dare to Desire, was free!







Simply Irresistible by Kate Pearce

Abigail Beecham and Peter Howard have been in love for several years now and Kate wants another child.  However, Abigail's husband James in the West Indies and if she were to become pregnant, Society would notice.  Abby can no longer continue to pretend and ends her relationship with Peter.  Peter's best friend, Lord Valentin Sokorvosky help Abby and Peter find their HEA.

Be warned that this novella is a continuation of Simply Sinful with characters from Simply Sexual.  If you haven't read either one, you need to before reading Simply Irresistible.  

I loved this continuation of one of my favorite novels in the series.  Abby and Peter got the HEA they deserved.  For being as short as it is, it sure packs a lot of bang.  The novella is brilliantly sexual and leaves the reader wanting more.  


I received this novella as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Never Resist a Rake by Mia Marlowe

John Fitzhugh has recently learned that he is the heir to a marquessate and the family that ignored him for his entire life is now attempting to claim him.

Rebecca Kearsey is the daughter of a baron with a gambling problem that is quite destitute.  They are so low on the rungs of society's ladder that they can't reach the first rung.  Rebecca is kidnapped while in the market and John claims her as his prize when he wins a boxing match.  

I liked this novel as much as I liked the first in the series.  The characters are well written.  John's grandmother is hilarious.  When I was reading the novel, I was hearing Lady Violet (Downton Abbey) as her voice.  Rebecca is a sweet soul that needs a man like John.  I loved how Rebecca made John into a better person.  And, there is just enough intrigue to keep the novel flowing well.

I received this novel as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review.



Never Refuse a Shiekh by Jackie Ashenden

Princess Safira has been hidden with a desert tribe since she was a young girl and her parents were killed.  There has been war for the past five years and now, is the time that Sheikh Altair is coming to claim her to be his queen to quell the unrest.  He finds an uncivilized woman that he wants to bring to his will.  Yet, in Altair, Safira sees his wild side that he has clamped down.
This was a wonderful novel full of action and intrigue.  The alpha hero has to stake his claim not only on his throne but on his woman.  For a novella, it is amazingly well developed and I didn't want it to end.  This novel can stand up to any Harlequin Sheikh novel.
I received this novel from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

True Devotion by Liora Blake

As much as I like the cover and the description and I was in the mood for a contemporary romance, I just could not read this novel.  It is not the fault of the author.  I was laughing at the description of the wedding.  I just can not read romance when it is written in first person.

So, if you like a book with humor and a feisty heroine and a hero that is totally hot, this is the novel for you.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.