Saturday, December 30, 2017

When a Lioness Growls by Eve Langlais

Eve Langlais writes some of my favorite shifter novels.  I know there is always going to be humor mixed in with the hot, steamy sex.  And to have a whampyr as one of the characters!  Loved it!  Thank you!!

Beloved Sacrifice by Mari Carr and Lila Dubois

I did not want this book to end.  I have been waiting for Rose to get her HEA (or as much as you can have an HEA when you are in the Trinity Master's world.)  I loved the evolution of her character.  And Marek was amazing.  I loved the tie he has through his grandmother to the Master's Admiralty. 

I have been reading this series since the first three books were published. As it was added on to, the twists and turns of the plots were amazing. 

Sought (Brides of the Kindred) by Evangeline Anderson

This is the third book in the Brides of the Kindred series.  At this point, they are building upon each other, so it is not a stand-alone.  The second book introduces Kat O'Connor who is Olivia and Sophia's BFF.  When Sophia was abducted by the AllFather, Kat meets Locks Tight and Stabs Deep.  They are Twin Kindred that have a mental connection and can find people.  Unfortunately, their anchor has passed away and they need a new anchor.  That is where Kat comes into play.

Lock and Deep are twin Kindred.  Lock is the light twin and Deep is the dark twin.  Kat is their perfect woman.  She is a curvy plus-sized woman that is treasured on his home planet.  When they form too tight of a mental bond, Deep will do anything to sever it.  

There are some things in this book that I was shaking my head at.  The penises of the Twin Kindred bond to form one huge penis when they are having sex with their mate.  But, prior to mating for the first time, the female needs to eat bonding fruit.  I have read several series with menage à trois as a trope, but the bonding penises made me giggle.

Overall, I liked this book.  I like how the series builds up.  The characters from the previous books are important in this book and the characters from the next book play a part too.  


Hunted (Brides of the Kindred #2) by Evangeline Anderson

Sophia Waterhouse has been afraid of needles since she was a child.  Too bad her sister Olivia is marrying her Kindred mate and Sophia needs to kiss Sylvan at the end of the ceremony in the Luck Kiss.  Sylvan is half-brother to Olivia's mate.  He is a Tranq Kindred, sort of a good modern-day vampire.  Sylvan was devastated years ago when the woman he desired on his home planet rejected him.  He refuses to call a bride.

When the AllFather kidnaps Sophia, Sylvan is the only person that can rescue her.  Will they be able to resist the intense attraction between them?

I read the first book in the series and like that book, I spent half of this book wanting to slap Sophia.  I loved Sylvan.  I did like the plot and how it moved between characters.  While Sophia and Sylvan are the main characters, there are other characters that are sub-main characters.  It makes this book a very fun read.


Operation Ginger Avenger by Heather Rainier

Tank Drummond's mother is tired of her son and his best friend patiently waiting for the woman they desire to get her life back on track.  She gets help to create a video that goes viral along with the social media links. 

Jessica Bright escaped to Divine, Texas to hide from her captor.  She stayed while pregnant then got a job so she could raise her daughter.  Tank and Troy Burnett have been devoted to her since they first met her and were even in the delivery room.  While Jessica has overcome the trauma, she is still emotionally scarred.  She wants to have a relationship with Tank and Troy.

Her captor still wants revenge.  He calls in a favor from a buddy that got out of prison.  Four Bits always pays his debts and he is going to make sure Jessica is taken care of for good.

The ladies of Divine, Tank's mother, and even Jessica's daughter, Bella are going to make sure that Jessica, Troy, and Tank end up in together - Operation Ginger Avenger is born!

Jessica's story was amazing!  I loved #gingerhotties!  There were so many times that I was laughing out loud then was crying.  I loved the care and tenderness that Troy and Tank took with Jessica.  They understood her PTSD.  I had been waiting for this story since Divine Charity.  It did not disappoint!

A Match Made in Heather by Anna Harrington

Arabel Rowland was the laird's daughter.  Garrick McGuiness was the penniless stable hand.  Though forbidden to be together, they were set to elope when tragedy struck Arabel's family.  She asked Garrick for more time because her family needed her.  He refused to listen to her explanation and in the end, his pride and her devotion to her family drove them apart.

Ten years later, her uncle has passed away and has left Arabel the Highland Castle she has always treasured.  Her uncle and aunt felt that they were part of the reason Arabel did marry Garrick.  The will leaves half of the castle to Arabel and half to Garrick.

They have one month to live in the castle together to fulfill the wills requirement.  Is that enough time for Garrick and Arabella to rekindle their passion?

What a wonderful novella.  There was a rocky start between Arabel and Garrick after ten years apart.  Garrick has taken himself from stable hand to being awarded an Earldom.  Arabel is still a dutiful daughter and loyal to her family.  They had to slowly rebuild their relationship as the truth about that night they were set to elope comes out.  I loved the characters and the passion that still sparked between them.  This was a great read.


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

A SEAL for Christmas by Leslie North

Another hot, entertaining read by Leslie North.  Murphy Coen is attempting to find his missing sister.  He doesn't expect to fall in love with his best friend's ex-fiancee Shayma bint Amr Kahlan.  I liked the continuing sub-plot of searching for Murphy's missing sister.

I can't wait for the next book!

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



Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Claimed (Brides of the Kindred #1) by Evangeline Anderson

In return for saving the Earth from the Scourge, unmarried women between the ages of nineteen and thirty-five have to register for the bride draft.  Olivia has been dream-sharing with a Kindred warrior. Baird has been held captive and has escaped.  The one thing that got him through and drove him to escape was Olivia.  Now, Baird has requested Olivia in the draft.

Olivia does not want to be a Kindred bride.  All Olivia wants is to go home and resume her life on Earth.  She has one month during the claiming period to get out of marriage to Baird.  Can Baird convince his unwilling bride there is a bond between them?

I have other books by Evangeline Anderson in my collection and thought I would try this book.  I normally do not read sci-fi romance.  I took a big leap and bought the four book bundle.  Over half of the book is Olivia blowing hot and ice cold for Baird.  I wanted to slap Olivia for most of the book and remind her of their dream connection.  Or, just take Baird for myself.

I kept reading the book because I could tell  Ms. Anderson was having fun when she wrote it.  At the end of the book, I wanted to know more about the world of the Kindred.  I enjoyed reading this book and am hooked on the series

Rugged Texas Cowboy by Lora Leigh

I got to the end of the first chapter and put the book in the DNF pile.  There was just so much thrust at the reader in the prologue and first chapter.  I did skim the second book and found it just as confusing.

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

Rock Star Cowboys by D. L. Roan

The McLendon Twins are the newest country music sensation.  Carson has been wild and crazy on the road, with endless partying and running on little sleep.  Connor is all about the music.  He is disgusted with Carson's antics and wants the tour to stop.  Just as he is ready to pull the plug on the tour, they get a call that their beloved Papa is ill and they rush home to Falcon Ridge.

Breezy Youngblood has loved Connor and Carson since she was a girl.  She was envious of their close family.  Disaster struck and she was forced to leave Grassland.  She is now back as an Occupational Therapist to help their Papa Joe recover from a stroke.

Connor has fallen in love with Breezy.  Carson still resents and blames Breezy for the accident that wasn't her fault.  He doesn't want to change his mind about what happened years ago and let Breezy get close to his family. 

I have been waiting for this book.  I loved the twins and this book didn't disappoint!  I loved seeing Carson change his mind and learn what really happened.  

To the Duke, With Love by Amelia Grey

Sorry to say this one ended up on the DNF pile.  I just couldn't get past an English Duke named Sloane.

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

A Sheikh for Christmas by Leslie North

There is nothing like a Leslie North Sheikh book!  I loved how Daveed helped Melody when her parents cut her off because she didn't marry the man they wanted her to marry.  This was a great Christmas Romance.

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



Once Upon a Christmas Eve (A Maiden Lane Novella) by Elizabeth Hoyt

On one side, I loved this book.  The banter between Sarah and d"Arque made it a great read.  I liked how d'Arque wasn't looking for a wife, but when he met Sarah, he was smitten.  Then, he falls madly in love.  Nothing like a reformed rake in love with his perfect match.  I thought Sarah was a great heroine.  I liked how her mother believed her, not the busybodies.  I do hope d'Arque gets revenge in another book.  That said, I didn't like how short the book was.  I felt that the story wasn't complete and didn't have a chance to develop.  d'Arque should have gotten the chance to ruin the man that destroyed Sarah's reputation.  I hope that Sarah and d'Arque pop up in other Maiden Lane books to complete their story.

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



The Big, Bad Billionaire by Jackie Ashenden

Rafe DeSantis was sent away from his family to live with his paternal grandfather to "learn some discipline".  Rafe has been obsessing over Ella Hart since he was sent away.  As a toddler, she followed him everywhere until he lost control of his temper at his fourteenth birthday.  Rafe is getting revenge on his father by taking control of his company and the guardianship of Ella.  Rafe is in a position to blackmail her into his bed. 

Ella has lived with her grandmother since her parents died when she was a child.  Dance is everything to her and she wants to attend a prestigious dance school in Paris.  Ella needs to petition her guardian for access to her family money, only her guardian isn't responding to her e-mails.  Ella is shocked to find out that Rafe is now her guardian.  He gives her an ultimatum that Ella can't refuse. 

Rafe is the perfect Big, Bad Wolf to Ella's Little Red Riding Hood.  Rafe is the perfect emotionally scarred hero.  I loved his intensity and drive to his one goal - Ella.  Ella was an innocent that even after being with Rafe still maintains that innocence.  She is his perfect balance.  I enjoyed reading this book.  It is great as part of the series and great as a stand-alone.

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

Monday, December 25, 2017

Reckless Beat Box Set (4 - 5) by Eden Summers

Sultry Groove
I absolutely love this series.  Normally, I read Historical and am very picky about the few Contemporary that I read.  When I found the first novel, "Blind Attraction", I didn't stop reading until I was done.  I was blown out of the water.  The book was everything I look for.  It was entertaining with the dialogue between band members, the sex scenes were erotic and well written.  You wanted to be friends with the heroine yet were jealous of her because of her man.  I quickly read the next four and they too did not disappoint.

I have been waiting for "Sultry Groove" since I read Mason and Sidney's story.  The drummer for the band, Sean Taiden, has been in love with the woman that co-wrote their songs, Sidney Higgins for years.  He had a three-way with her and Mason, then lost her for four years when the sex tape went viral.  Now that Mason has reclaimed her, Sean is devastated.  He is having to attend their engagement party and pretend nothing is wrong.  He gets thoroughly drunk as the party progresses.  The band manager, Leah, introduces Melody Jenkins to the members of the band and finds Sean passed out.  Sean is tired of being the guy in the background, the one that groupies have sex with in hopes he hooks them up with the frontmen.  Sean has asked to star in the video for their new single Fighting Against the Attraction.  Melody is the choreographer.  She has quit dancing after a tragic accident and now runs a dance studio.  Once Sean is semi-sober, the attraction between them is immediate.  Melody is someone he can use to forget Sidney.  If he can only remember her name.

Did I say that I have been hooked since the first book?  I was reading something else but put it down as soon as I got this ARC.  I was not disappointed.  The interaction between band members is always hilarious.  The reader is left knowing that they are more than a band, they are family.  The guys support Sean and Sean respects Mason and does not want to destroy his relationship with Sidney as much as it rips out his heart.  Melody has her own scars that she must get past.  The story develops and holds the readers attention.  The characters develop as we get more depth from Sean.

This is a series that I have re-read several times.  I love Eden Summers edgy writing style.  While each book has a different member of the band to focus on, the other members still play a part.  I have been waiting for Ryan to have his HEA with Leah since book one.  The sad thing is I know once Ryan's book is written, the series is over.

Reckless Rendezvous
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.

Undeniable Temptation
Knowing this is the end of a series, I wanted this book to be amazing.  I received an ARC from Eden Summers and immediately loaded it onto my e-reader.  Then, I didn't stop reading until I was done.

While this book is Ryan's, the whole Reckless Bead band plays an important part.  There was the relationship of the band with their manager.  The dedication Leah gives to each member of the band.  The support his friends give Ryan when he is going through an ugly period in his life.  What the guys do for Ryan so he can have his HEA.


This book makes you feel Ryan's pain.  Just when he thinks that he is going to get his love, the rug is brutally ripped from under him.  But, the ending is the sweetest ending to this amazing series.

I received an ARC from the author for the three books.  I did not receive monitory compesnation for my review.

Reckless Beat Box Set (Books 1 - 3) by Eden Summers

Blind Attraction

Alana Shelton had lead an extremely sheltered life.  She grew up in Colorado at a sanctuary for abused women and was home schooled.  She was with a friend she had known from when her mother lived in Richmond.  The friend, Kate, had won tickets to Reckless Beat's album launch concert.  Alana drew the attention of Mitchell Davies, lead guitar.  He arranges for a security guard to tell Alana that he wanted to meet her after the concert.  When the security guard is fired, the connection almost isn't made.  But, Mitch finds her as she is leaving the hotel and takes Alana and Kate to his suite.  That is when they encounter the security guard that causes an accident that leaves Kate temporarily blinded.  Mitch devotes himself to Alana because he feels guilty about the accident.

I subscribe to BookBub and this was one of the books listed in one of my daily emails.  Since it was free, I took a chance.  It was a 50/50 that the book was written in first person.  When I started reading, I was pleasantly surprised.  Then I was hooked.  I loved the bond between the members of the band.  The naughty banter was hilarious.  I also fell in love with the members of the band.  I almost wished I was young enough to be a groupie!  The only part of the story line that bothered me was how Alana meets her grandparents and later father.

Once I started reading the book, I could not put it down.  And after I finished reading, I immediately bought the others.


Passionate Addiction
Blake Kennedy has demons.  He is in a chat room on the internet when he meets the woman that will save him.  Gabrielle Smith first started chatting with Blake in the chat room then that grew to text, email and Skype.  However, they have only voice called, not video chatted, so Blake doesn't know what Gabi looks like. Reckless Beat is on the Australian leg of their tour and Blake takes advantage to go several days early to meet Gabi on her birthday.  They meet and the connection in instant.

Blake is the tortured bad boy of the band that went through addiction and recovery without the rest of the band knowing.  He is covered in tattoos and sex personified.  But, beneath that bad boy exterior is a good man with a soft heart.  Gabi knows all to well about addictions.  Her brother OD'd and later died on her birthday.  Her parents can't acknowledge her birthday and seem to have distanced themselves from their remaining child.

Again, this was another well written book from Eden Summers.  It just keeps building on the story started in "Blind Attraction".  Each book spotlights the main character, but with the other members of the band playing a large roll.  I loved the character of Blake.  He is a former man-whore that has found the woman that he needs to save him.  Gabi is a strong woman that isn't afraid to joke right back with the members of the band.

This was a book that I didn't put down until I was done.  I loved the banter between the band members.  It is classified as "erotica" but keeps a perfect, fine balance between being erotic and not overwhelming the plot.  And yes, there is a plot in this novel.


Reckless Weekend

Reckless Weekend is 2.5 in the "Reckless Beat" series.  It is written so there is a conclusion to Mitchell/Alana and Blake/Gabi's stories.  Reckless Weekend is the weekend in Vegas before Mitch and Alana's wedding.  There is a "honeymoon" contest between the bride and groom and a surprise HEA.  It also gives some foreshadowing for Ryan and Sean.  I loved the beauty salon scene with Sean and the Brazilian.  I am hoping that when his book comes, that Maree is his girl.

I liked how the author chose to do a 2.5 rather than allowing the couples in the first two books HEA to overshadow the other books.  The banter and sarcasm was great.  It is erotic without being overpowering.

I can't wait to see what happens with Ryan and Leah.


Undesired Lust

Two years ago, Sidney Higgins and two of the members of Reckless Beat, Mason Lynch and Sean Taiden had a wild encounter in a hotel room.  Mason vidoed it with his phone, then his apartment got broken into and the phone stolen.  When the video was uploaded to the internet, Sidney is the one that lost everything.  The record deal that she was about to sign was pulled.  People wouldn't record with her.  Now, two years later, Reckless Beat's manager, Leah, arranges for Sidney to write again with Mason.  However, this time, there is a crazy stalker trying to get at Sidney.

I read this book in a binge of the four (including 2.5) Reckless Beat books.  Each one maintains the same quality.  The characters are great.  There is a dynamic between the members of the band.  They are sarcastic yet still are friends.  I liked Sidney and Mason's story.  Sidney was one of the few people that could see the real Mason.  I loved that the mighty Mason finally met his match in Sidney.  

The heat level in the book is intense (I thought my iPad was going to melt) and compliments the plot.  Yes, there is a true plot.  I love how Leah and the other band members play a part in the book.  

Again, another great book.



Saturday, December 23, 2017

A Good Day to Marry a Duke by Betina Krahn

Daisy Bumgarten is a diamond in the rough.  She rode astride, drank whiskey and wasn't afraid to shake a man's hand.  Shunned by the Knickerbockers, Daisy's mother Elizabeth believes that marrying into London gentry is the only way to save her sister's marriage prospects.  Daisy is given a "society tutor" to tone down her spirited nature.  She is thrust at Arthur Graham, Duke of Meridian.  His family doesn't want a "dollar princess" in the family and has the younger son, Ashton distract Daisy.

For me, this book fell flat.  Daisy could have been so much more.  I did not like Ashton and felt sorry for Arthur.  The title is somewhat misleading.  Daisy marries a second son. 

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



Thursday, December 14, 2017

A McLendon Christmas by D.L. Roan

Its been a year and a half since Gabby got her HEA with Grey, Matt and Mason.  The twins are eight and Gabby gave birth to twins Danielle and Jonah four months ago.  It's the Christmas season and Gabby feels like she is on an emotional roller coaster.  Her husbands are doing everything they can to help her. 

I love the McLendon family!  This was a great follow-up to The Heart of Falcon Ridge.  I loved the flashback where Grey is freaking out when Gabby is giving birth. 


Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Billionaire's Sexy Rival by Leslie North

This was a quick, enjoyable read.  I liked Poppy and felt she was the perfect foil for William.  I liked that they were forced to work together and fell in love.  Again, another great book from Leslie North.  Keep them coming!

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





Enchanted by the Highlander by Lecia Cornwall

Nope.  Did not like the book.  I could not get past the first two chapters.  The poor book ended on my virtual DNF pile.

Romancing the Scot by May McGoldrick

I liked that Hugh and Grace should have been enemies yet they fall in love.  Hugh was a hero in the Napoleonic wars.  He is still grieving the loss of his wife and son.  Grace was raised by an Irish father that fought for Napoleon.  Her mother was an exiled Scottish Jacobite. 

Grace is running from the men that just murdered her father and hides in a box in a warehouse.  She ends up sealed in the box and traveling from Antwerp to Scotland.  Hugh is taken by the beautiful Grace and does everything so she will trust him.  Grace does not know that she is in possession of a secret that will wreck havoc in the British government until she is attacked.  Can Hugh protect Grace and the love that is starting to grow?

I started this book not expecting the ending.  The characters were well written and lept off the page.  I started the book and did not want it to end.  This was a wonderful book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!




The Silent Duke by Jess Michaels

Ewan Hoffstead was born mute.  His father abused him and let his younger brothers abuse him too until his uncle stepped in.  Evan is now the Duke of Donburrow and feels that he isn't worthy of the title his uncle fought for him to have.

Charlotte has loved Ewan since they were young.  As a recent widow, Charlotte has nothing to lose.  She travels to Ewan's estate to spend Christmas.  A storm keeps their friends from arriving so Charlotte takes advantage and seduces Ewan.  Ewan cannot resist her but thinks he doesn't deserve her.  When his family threatens his life and Charlotte's Ewan has to take action.

This was an amazing book.  I wanted Ewan to get his HEA when he was introduced in the first novel in this series.  I loved the characters and how the characters from the previous books are part of the story.  I love this series and can't wait for the next book!

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Sunday, December 10, 2017

Two Dukes are Better Than One by Lorna James

I wish this book was longer so the characters could have been given more depth.  I felt like there was a lot missing.

That said, I did enjoy reading the book and liked the interaction between Sophia and Stone and Huxley.  I liked the plot and wish there could have been more with Sophia's tarot cards.

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


Thursday, December 7, 2017

Once Upon a Maiden Lane by Elizabeth Hoyt

I loved this Maiden Lane novella.  The characters were great.  I liked how Henry stood up to his father and got his HEA.  I can't wait to see Mary and Henry in future Maiden Lane books.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman

Viscount Hart Highgate has decided he will get married this summer.  While he enjoys the sporting life of a high-speed carriage race, as the heir to an earldom, he needs to find his future bride.

Meg Timmons has always loved Hart, the brother of her best friend, Sarah.  There isn't a chance Hart will ask Meg to be his wife because Meg doesn't have a dowry and their parents are sworn enemies.  Meg turns to Lucy Hunt, the Duchess of Clarington to help her win Hart. 

When Meg's parents must flee to the Continent to escape their huge debt, Lucy steps up her matchmaking game.  A well-intended ploy ends with marriage and Hart hating Meg.

Can Meg win back Hart?


I really enjoyed this book.  I liked the plot and was rooting for Meg from the beginning.  I loved the ending. 

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Christmas in Kilts by Bronwen Evans, May McGoldrick, Lecia Cornwall, Lavinia Kent, Terri Brisbin

I normally do not read Christmas romances.  Each novella in this book was great.  It was a wonderful read. 

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Sunday, November 26, 2017

The Billionaire's Pregnant Fling by Leslie North

Eddie Jameson has been working on his reputation so he can have a part in his family's advertising agency.  He has been known as the life of the party until now.  He meets his old friend Margot Dale at a party and the sparks fly.  When they meet weeks later at a party, Margot tells Eddie that she is pregnant.  As Eddie's life shifts, can Margot and Eddie face their attraction and have a family together?

I absolutely love Eddie!  The connection between Eddie and Margot make this book sparkle.  It was such a fun friends to lovers book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Hard Breaker by Christine Warren.

Hard Breaker is book six in the "Gargoyles" series by Christine Warren.  It is the first book from the series that I have read.  I liked that I didn't realize that it was book six until I was done.  The book intrigued me because of the gargoyle aspect.  The blend of shifters and magic with action/adventure was perfect.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you.



Friday, November 24, 2017

What the Earl Needs Now by Michelle Willingham

Lily Thornton has waited for two years for Matthew Larkspur, the Earl of Arnsbury to return from India.  Before Matthew left England, he married Lily in secret.

Mattew has returned from India with no memory after being tortured.  He cannot sleep and eat. When he first returns, Lily refuses to give up on Matthew.  When he drives her away, Matthew realizes that she soothes his tortured soul and he can't live without her.  Matthew will do anything to have the woman he loves back.

This was a powerful romance.  I loved how Matthew courted Lily with the veterinary books that she was interested in.  This was a book that held my interest from beginning to end. 

I voluntarily reviewed this ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

The Highlander is All That by Sabrina York

Elizabeth, Anne, Mary and Victoria St. Claire have lived with their Aunt Esmerelda since their parents died.  They are loosely related to the Duke of Caithness who has sponsored their London season.  Esmerelda is disappointed when the Duke doesn't come to London but sends Hamish and Ranald as his emissaries.  In the end, Elizabeth and Anne are not disappointed.  Mary and Victoria also have their HEA.

I liked how while the book was about Elizabeth, all of the girls got their HEA. I loved all of the characters and ended the book wanting a Hamish of my own.   

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Saturday, November 11, 2017

Duke of Desire by Elizabeth Hoyt

What an extremely powerful book.  Raphael is a tortured hero that suffered abuse at the hands of his father.  His one mission is to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos so he can destroy them.  When the Lords of Chaos kidnap Lady Iris Jordan in a case of mistaken identity, he rescues her.  To prevent the Lords of Chaos from killing them both, Raphael marries Iris so he can protect her.

I liked Lady Iris in Duke of Pleasure.  I liked how she was not a debutante and knew what she wanted from her marriage to Raphael.  She wasn't going to put up with his reluctance to have a complete marriage.  I was thrilled that Raphael got his HEA and his wounds were healed by Iris's love.

I voluntarily reviewed this ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!!

The Wicked Billionaire by Jackie Ashenden

Lucas Tate was trained as a sniper and Navy SEAL.  He distanced himself from his adoptive father and devoted himself to his military service.  One of the last things his father asked him to do is to protect the widow of one of his former comrades.

Grace Riley is shocked to find out her husband wasn't the hero that she thought he was.  When she finds out that Lucas Tate is there to protect her from the evil men out to kill her, she finds she can't resist his stark demeanor and intense gaze. 

I was hooked at the first chapter.  The book was a thrilling romantic-suspense.  The characters were so well written.  I didn't put the book down until it was over.

I voluntarily reviewed this ARC that was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. 

The Scot Beds His Wife by Kerrigan Byrne

This is the fifth book in the Victorian Rebels series.  This has to be one of my favorite series. 

Samantha Masters is an American that is masquerading as another woman to escape being arrested for murdering her husband.  Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne wants to purchase Alison Ross's land from her.  When Samantha arrives masquerading as Alison, Gavin will go anything to seduce her so he can have the land. 

The book was a little slow to start, but once it did, I was hooked.  I loved the characters.  The book was an amazing and enjoyable read.

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

Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Inked Memories by Carrie Ann Ryan

Wes Montgomery is the last of the Denver Montgomery family to fall in love.  His twin brother Storm has fallen in love.  His friends-with-benefits girl Jillian works as a plumber for the family company.  Jillian starts to set off his temper and slowly he starts to have other thoughts about her.   They fight the attraction as long as they can until her personal life takes a turn for the worse and they are thrown together.  These enemies-to-lovers end up with the best HEA.

I have enjoyed this series and how each book can be read as a stand-alone.  I loved Wes and Jillian.  Loved the frenemies to lovers and loved catching up with the Montgomery family.  Wonderful book!

I received this HEA from the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!!!

Monday, October 30, 2017

The Billionaire's Ex-Wife by Leslie North

Trinity divorced Sam because he was an arrogant, workaholic who couldn't make an anniversary dinner or remember they had a cat.  Sam moves to LA to work on the West Coast branch of their families advertising business.  Sam has to return to New York to help his brother Eddie where he encounters Trinity.  He decides that he is going to do anything to do to win his wife back.

When I first started reading, I thought Sam was a jerk and deserved for Trinity to leave him.  After a while, I started rooting for Sam to win Trinity back.  I enjoyed the characters and thought Eddie was a charming sidekick.

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




Sunday, October 22, 2017

Grigori by Lauren Smith

Madelyn Haynes was adopted as a child and grew up with loving parents.  She always knew she was different.  When it rained, she dreamed of dragons.  For the last five years, she has been a professor of medieval mythology, reading and researching dragons.  She has been given her a three-month sabbatical to pursue her theory.  Madelyn has come to Russia to prove that theory in the Russian State Library.  She discovers a book that pictures of a handsome man and the dragon she has dreamed about.

Grigori Barinov is the oldest in an ancient line of dragon shifters.  He is sworn to protect their history and magic.  He is notified that a nosy American has requested the book that shows proof of dragons existence.  Grigori must protect his family at all costs even when her intoxicating scent attracts him to her.  After his brother kills the son of their rival family, Gregori must battle his father.  Can Gregori protect Madelyn?

I have read Lauren Smith's historical novels and liked them, so I decided to take a chance on Grigori.  I loved it!  Shifters are one of my guilty pleasured and Grigori was perfect.  I loved the setting and the characters.  It was a well-written book.  I can't wait for the next book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

Saturday, October 14, 2017

Caught by the Scot by Karen Hawkins

Scottish privateer Conner Douglas has just learned that his sister passed away during childbirth and in her will, he has to marry a respectable, well-born woman to claim his inheritance.  Or, it will go to his family's enemies.

He decides to elope to Gretna Green with the sister of his childhood friend, Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe.  However, Theodora is already on her way to Gretna Green with her fiancee.  Conner needs to marry Theodora and won't let her get away.

Theodora has been in love with Conner for years and has finally given up on Conner declaring he wanted to marry her.  She found a fiancee and now Conner is doing everything to stop her elopement.  Theodora is tired of moving due to her father's job and wants a stable home.  She knows that Conner can't provide that.  Conner will do anything to change her mind.  He sets a plan to get her to call off with the help of the crew from his ship.   On the way to Gretna Green Conner discovers that beneath Theodora's plain exterior is a passionate woman. 

Will Connor get his HEA with Theodora?

I enjoyed the characters in this novel.  Theodora was a strong woman, having run her family's household due to her mother's illnesses.  Connor is the perfect man to give her the independence she craves.  I loved the way Connor kept attempting to stall the trip to Gretna Green.  This was a great read.

Friday, October 13, 2017

The Sheikh's Unruly Lover by Leslie North

Marian is flying to Parsabad to help with a huge business deal for the company she works for.  Her boss is sending her because he knows that the Chief Technology Officer that is in charge of the project is a gigantic ass and may ruin the deal that they have been working hard for.  For Marian, this trip too Parsabad is a bonus.  She gets to see her best friend Annabell and help with the deal with National Oil.

When Marian arrives in Parsabad, she meets Sheikh Omar Almasi and in instantly wary of his good looks and defensive demeanor.  Marian is forced to take over the negotiations when the CTO offends everyone in the initial meeting.  Omar is still recovering from the death of his wife two years later.  He keeps fighting his attraction to Marian.  

Omar will do anything to make sure his family business succeeds and this deal is important to the survival.  He has to work side by side with Marian while fighting the attraction he feels toward her.  When he gives up the fight, things heat up.  Will Omar be able to let go of his grief and have his HEA with Marian?

This was a great read!  I enjoyed the characters.  Marian was a great heroine.  I was thrilled that Omar got his HEA with Marian.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!




Saturday, October 7, 2017

The Broken Duke by Jess Michaels

Adelaide Langford is leaving a double life.  In the eyes of the Ton, she is a bluestocking wallflower.  When she sneaks out of her aunt’s house, she is a celebrated actress.

Graham is starting to return to his old life after the humiliating loss of his longtime fiancée to one of his best friends.  His other friends drag him out to the theater where he sees Lydia Ford and is instantly thrown into lust.

Graham does not know why the bespectacled wallflower attracts him as much as Lydia.  He is torn and guilted by his feelings until he discovers Adelaide’s secret.

Can Graham save her from the danger that Adelaide was beginning to suspect?

The Broken Duke is the third in the series that revolves around a group of friends that are Dukes.  I felt so bad for Graham in the previous book, but at the same time relieved because everyone deserves a spouse that loves them.

When Graham found Adelaide, I was thrilled.  I love the characters in the book.  While it is about Graham and Adelaide, the Dukes and Duchesses from the previous books make appearances and play a vital part.

This is a wonderfully written novel.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and can’t wait for the next book. Jess Michaels never disappoints and is one of my favorite authors.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel provided by NetGalley and the publisher.






Thursday, October 5, 2017

Sadie's Highlander by Maeve Greyson

I don't remember the last time I read a time travel romance.  I was so glad I read this book!  I liked Alex and Sadie.  There were points in this book that I wished Sadie would stand up to her family. 

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

The Sheikh's Contract Fiancee by Leslie North

I absolutely love Leslie North Sheikh novels!  Annabelle wanted to please her father despite their rocky relationship.  He asks her to head a merger with a company in the Middle East.  She meets Imaad and is stunned to learn that the merger includes an arranged marriage.  Imaad wants to have a fake marriage but things heat up and soon they want a real commitment.
Loved it!  I liked the characters.  I felt sorry for Annabelle and wanted to scream at her father.  But Imaad makes up for it.  Hot read!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

Bloom by Leslie North

When Antonio DeRose buys a failing tattoo studio, he gets more than the bargained for.  He finds Evie Stuart, the talented tattoo artist that he feels is wasting her talent.  No matter how many times Antonio asks her to be the head artist, Evie will refuse. 

When they mix business with pleasure, things get hot.  Will Evie become the head artist?  Can Antonio loosen up enough to find his HEA like his brothers?

I love the chemistry between Antonio and Evie.  They are both strong characters and need to learn to compromise to have their HEA.  This was an amazing series.  I liked the tattoo theme and the characters in the books.  All were well written and enjoyable.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Rush of Insanity: A Second Chance Rockstar Romance by Eden Summers

Harper left world-famous rock star, Judd Hart, over a year ago.  Harper thought that their worlds didn't mesh and all they had in common was lust.  Her best friend has asked her to go to Judd's concert.  Harper agreed as long as they sat in the nosebleed seats away from the view of the stage.

Judd realizes that letting Harper walkout was the biggest mistake of his life.  Once he spotted her in the crowd of his concert, he isn't going to let her walk away.  He will do anything including holding her hostage on his tour bus until he can get her back.

I was so hooked on this book.  When it ended, I was left sucking air.  I loved Harper and Judd and was so thrilled that Judd was able to get her back.  I loved how they got to their ending. 

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC for this book.

Tuesday, September 26, 2017

Penthouse Player by Tara Leigh

Did not finish the second chapter. 

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley.

The Billionaires: The Bosses by Calista Fox

I couldn't get past the first chapter.  I felt that the book was extremely shallow.  I did not like it.

When the Scoundrel Sins by Anna Harrington

Annabelle Green needs a husband to inherit her beloved home.  She needs to be married by her twenty-fifth birthday and her time is running out. 

The only person that can help her is Quinton Carlisle.  He had seduced her in a scandalous midnight tryst leaving her reputation in ruins. 

Quinn can't control his feelings around Annabelle and is determined to win her for himself.

I loved the banter between Quinn and Annabelle.  The plot twists kept the story lively.  I enjoyed reading this book.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

My Fair Lover by Nicole Jordan

Lady Katherine Wilde was crushed six years ago by Brandon Deverill when he spurned her.  She has been asked by her Aunt to turn Brandon into an acceptable English nobleman.

Brandon Deverill is a half-American privateer who has inherited an Earldom.  Now that he has inherited, he needs a wife and the perfect wife for him is Katherine.

What a fun novel!  From the characters to the plot, this book was engaging from beginning to end.  I loved the Pygmalion plot. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

Sunday, September 24, 2017

Tycoon Cowboy's Baby Surprise by Katherine Garbera

Wedding planner Kinley Quinten has to go back to Texas and it will bring her face-to-face with her daughter's father, rancher Nate Caruthers.

Three years ago, Nate and Kinley had a one night stand in Las Vegas.  When she called to let him know she was pregnant, Nate told her "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas".

If you are going to have a child in the book, know what the appropriate development is for the child's age.   Kinley's daughter is a little over two, yet she speaks and acts like she is in grade school.

Once I got around the way too mature child, I enjoyed the sparks that flew between Kinley and Nate.

A Love to Remember by Bronwen Evans

Rose Deverill is the wealthy widow of the Duke of Roxborough.  She was sold by her father to the rich Duke when she was eighteen.  Now that she is a widow, she has cultivated a reputation to discourage wife hunters.

Rose fell in love with Phillip Flagstaff when she was fifteen and he was the second son of the Earl of Cumberland.  Phillip is now the Earl because his older brother, Robert, followed him into the Battle of Waterloo.

Phillip is determined to let his younger brother be his heir because he does not deserve the title.  Rose has eased his pain, but he still can not bring himself to marry her.  When Phillip realizes that his notorious Duchess loves him, can he be man enough to deserve her love?

Once I started reading, I could not put the book down.  I loved the characters and the plot was a roller coaster that I didn't want to stop.  I loved that Phillip and Rose got their HEA, but I wish the book could have continued!

I voluntarily reviewed this complimentary ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

Twice Bitten by Lauren Dane

Michelle Slattery is a cop that was asked to help find her missing best friend.  As she is also a witch and realizes that her friend's disappearance could be linked to the other witches disappearing, she is seeking the help of the werewolves.  
Michelle didn't expect to see Josh Neelan at the Pacific Pack headquarters.  She had last seen Josh ten years ago when he abruptly left.  Josh had been turned and didn't know what to do.  
When danger looms, Josh needs to follow the fates and claim Michelle as his mate.  Can they rely on his wolf to help keep them safe?  How far will they both go to get their HEA?

This is the first book in this series that I have read.  I am hooked.  There is nothing like a Lauren Dane shifter novel!  I loved the characters and the suspenseful plot.  
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary book provided by NetGalley and the publisher.  Thank you!

Thorn by Leslie North

Luciano DeRose has been attempting to escape since his fiancee tragically died.  He has done everything in his power to stay out of LasVegas.  Instead of being the Head Artist at Thorn Tattoo, he has bounced around the country as a guest artist.

Melanie Noel has been Luciano's personal assistant, organizational guru and the one that gives him the escape route.  Melanie is now going to risk her heart to save the man that she has loved from afar.  She is going to make him force his past with the hope it will give her a future with him.

I love this series.  The books stand alone, yet when read back to back, they are amazing.  Once you pick one up, you can't put it down.

I am very frustrated with this series.  I only buy from BN because I can easily get gift cards.  I had this book and the third in my cart when they were pulled from BN.  This is a series that I would have read over and over just because of how they flow.

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

Saturday, September 23, 2017

The Vault of Sin Box Set by Eden Summers

I was thrilled that these three books were released as a Box Set!  I was hooked on the series from book one.



A Shot of Sin
Shay Porter is the bar manager for the Taste of Sin restaurant and the Shot of Sin dance club.  She has had on-going flirtation with one of the owners, Leo Petrova.  Leo refuses to take things further because Shay is no match for what he craves sexually.  When the bar downstairs, Vault of Sin, is short a bartender, the only replacement is Shay.  Leo fights his partners knowing he can't expose Shay to the place where he doesn't hold back.

Shay has been aware of the mysterious club underneath the restaurant and bar where she works.   When she finds out what goes on in the club and how involved Leo is, will she be able to step out of her comfort zone and risk everything for Leo.

Ok, so "A Shot of Sin" is the first in a series about three guys that run a sex club.  That said, the book isn't about sex.  There is relationship development between Shay and Leo.  It is about Shay stepping out of her comfort zone and Leo being willing to meet her part way.  While the focus of this novel is on Shay and Leo, Brute and T. J. play an active role.  I loved the quality of the writing in this novel.

Union of Sin
Cassie Jackson has twenty-eight days to get her husband back.  Tate and Cassie started experimenting sexually, him pushing her boundaries and introducing her to new things.  On a trip, they decided to go to a sex club and Cassie was almost assaulted.  Tate will do anything to keep his wife safe.  He moved out of the bedroom then their house, now he has served her with divorce papers.  Only, Cassie doesn't want the divorce and will do anything to keep Tate.

This is the second in the "Vault of Sin" series.  It had a different spin because Tate and Cassie were already married and Tate loved Cassie.  I liked the rebuilding of the relationship and how Cassie won't give up on Tate.  While the focus of this novel is on Tate and Cassie, Shay and Leo also play a part along with Brute.

Brutal Sin 
Brian is known by his friends and members of The Vault as Brute.  He is known for being heartless and ruthless.  Pamela is a member of The Vault to find the man who can satisfy her cravings that she hasn't felt since her husband died.

I have been waiting for this book and was so thrilled to get an ARC.  I loved Brute in the first two books.  Pamela is exactly what he needed.  She is strong enough to stand up to Bryan.  I loved his evolution from Brute to Bryan.

While I loved this book, I felt left in the dark with what had happened with Bryan's family.  I wish we knew the background because it clearly influenced the man.

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!


Disciplined by the Duke by Alyson Chase

For me, a book has to grab my attention and hold it within the first chapter.  I just did not like the opening for this book.  Through no fault of the author, I just did not like the book.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher.

The Billionaire's Intern (Billionaire Fairytales #3) by Jackie Ashenden

Lorenzo De Santis has been asked by an old friend to interview his daughter for an intern position.  Kira Constantin has been told by her father that she needed to spy on the De Santis Corp.   Kira had been out of control when she was younger due to ADHD and ignored by her parents.  Lorenzo was one of the few adults that paid attention to her and was kind to her.

Lorenzo did not expect to fall in love with Kira.  As they grow closer, Kira has a hard time spying on Lorenzo.  When they find out who the real villain is, can their relationship survive?

Jackie Ashenden is one of my favorite contemporary authors.  I loved the fast-paced, hot, romance between Lorenzo and Kira.  This was a fun book to read.

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

So I Married a Sorcerer by Kerrelyn Sparks

Brigitta has grown up on the Isle of Moon knowing she was born with the powers of the Embraced and that her family didn't want her because of her powers.

Rupert is a sorcerer who can harness the wind.  He spent his life as a notorious pirate plotting revenge on the evil King that stole his family.  Rupert knows that Brigitta is the key to retaining what was taken from him.  What started as a kidnapping grows into something deeper,  Will Brigitta and Rupert get their HEA?

I absolutely loved this book!  It is the perfect mix of romance and fantasy.  The characters are what makes the novel.  From main character to supporting characters.  This is a book that was hard to put down and I didn't want to end!

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


Dominating Mr. Darling by Victoria Vale

Lady Amelia Fitzwilliam has never wanted to marry.  As she approaches her thirtieth year, her older brother Simon has tripped her dowry.  Amelia does not want to give up her freedom.

Michael Darling is a gentleman farmer with a dire financial need.  He has come to London to find a bride with a large dowry.  Michael meets Amelia in a gaming hell.  After a wager over a card game, Amelia starts to realize that Michael may be the one that she can reach a marriage of domination.

I am a big fan of this series.  I liked Amelia when she was introduced in Simon's book.  She has so many layers to her personality.  Michael was the perfect match for what Amelia needed.  This was such a great book.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC.

Monday, August 21, 2017

An Earl by Any Other Name by Lauren Smith

Leopold Graham, Lord Hampton was a rake until his father died in his mistress's bed.  He now needs to marry a wealthy heiress because of the debt his father left.  Leo has picked the perfect woman but his mother has other ideas about who Leo should marry.

Ivy Leighton knew Leo when they were children.  After six Season's she hasn't found any man that measures up to Leo Graham.  When he rescues her on the way to his mother's house party, Ivy realizes the boy she knew is different from the man she has just met.

Can Ivy and Leo find their HEA?

I was hooked from the first chapter.  I loved the time this book was set in.  Leo was a wonderful hero.  He has to make a hard choice to keep his estate running.  He also has to go against the social norm when he meets Ivy and falls in love with her.  I liked that Leo's mother and Ivy were suffragettes.  Ivy was a strong woman that made a wonderful heroine.

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


Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Wolf's Mate by Celia Kyle

I haven't read one of Celia Kyle's books in a while.  I really enjoyed this one!  The characters were great.  There was a bromance with Declan and the rest of his team.  I liked the interactions between Declan and Abby.  This is a book I highly recommend!

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



Brutal Sin (The Vault #3) by Eden Summers

Brian is known by his friends and members of The Vault as Brute.  He is known for being heartless and ruthless.  Pamela is a member of The Vault to find the man who can satisfy her cravings that she hasn't felt since her husband died.

I have been waiting for this book and was so thrilled to get an ARC.  I loved Brute in the first two books.  Pamela is exactly what he needed.  She is strong enough to stand up to Bryan.  I loved his evolution from Brute to Bryan.

While I loved this book, I felt left in the dark with what had happened with Bryan's family.  I wish we knew the background because it clearly influenced the man.

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!



Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Stone Cold Fox by Evangeline Anderson

Jo Ferrell was cast out of her home and is on the run from the shadow chasing her.  She needs to find a shelter and ends up in a shed.

Reese Cooper owns the auto shop in Cougarville and is an Alpha fox.  When he finds a frightened woman in his shed, his fox perks up and wants to claim her as their mate.

Jo is confused by the changes in her body - the grey streak in her hair is gone, her body looks younger and firmer and the sex drive that she has ignored is going crazy.  She is finding it hard to resist Reese.

Can Jo and Reese find the strength to fight the dark magic that threatens their happiness.


Jo was an amazingly strong heroine.  She had survived PTSD for 20 years and isolated herself in a "yoga" community.  She finds her strength with Reese.

This is the third book in this series that I have read.  I like the author's version of shifters.  The females that are in their mid-40's and rejuvenate.  I also like that the male shifters are different.  In this novel, Reese is a fox that can go from tiny (which helps calm Reese) to OMG scary huge.  Love it!  I can't wait for the next book in the series!

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  No monetary compensation was exchanged.



Monday, July 31, 2017

Rose by Leslie North

Giovani DeRose has dreamed of running his father's tattoo studio since he was a young boy just learning to draw.  Now, he is on a sinking ship that his brother owns yet isn't willing to give up an inch of control.  Antonio brings in Riley Byrne who has a strong finance background.  Riley and Giovani butt heads over her every change to Thorn Tattoo.  Can Giovani and Riley combine their talents and passion to help Thorn Tattoo survive?


After reading this book, I wanted to hop on a plane and go to Vegas so I could get a tattoo from Riley!  This is an amazing start to the series!  I think that Giovani is one of the best bad boy characters from Leslie North.  I can't wait for the rest of the series!

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

Too Scot to Handle by Grace Burrowes

I enjoyed this novel.  Anewn Windham gave most people the impression that she was a demure young lady.  Lord Colin MacHugh was the strong, former soldier that is learning how to go about in polite society.  He has compassion and listens to Anwen.  It was a great read.

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



Blackthorne's Bride by Joan Johnston

The book opens with a rather brutal prologue in America.  Marcus, the Duke of Blackthorne is on a tour of America with his friend (who is the brother of his fiancee).  They want to go on a buffalo hunt and is in a band or renegade Sioux's camp.  He sees a young woman tied to a post and being whipped.  Marcus is stunned and attempts to barter for the girl with his knife and his grandfather's gold watch.  He rescues her and takes the girl to England.  Marcus has been summoned back home and takes the girl with him.  On the ship, he devoted himself to nursing the girl.  Since Marcus is going to be married soon, he asks his friend, Seaton, to take care of the girl.

Two years later, Marcus's wife has died in childbirth along with the baby and his younger brother died in a carriage race leaving Marcus the guardian of his two nephews.  The previous Duke has made a series of bad investments that ha almost bankrupted the estate.  Marcus needs to marry a rich woman to make the estate solvent and has his solicitor search for a wealthy American bride.

The young woman that Marcus saved, Josie Wentworth, was dumped at one of his estates at the request of Marcus's fiancee.  She knew she was dying and realizing that Marcus loved the young woman he had saved, wanted Marcus to have her after she died.

In the time that Josie has been at the crumbling estate, she has been a maid of all work at the mercy of the housekeeper and Marcus's nephews nanny.  A Pinkerton agent visits Josie and tells her that she is an heiress.  As Josie is getting ready to leave for America, she discovers that Marcus is now a widower and seeking an American heiress.  She decides to marry Marcus so that she can rescue his nephews and take them to America with her.


There were so many points in this novel that I wanted to scream.  I liked Josie and thought she was an amazingly strong woman.  However, what made this book a 3 rather than the 5 it should have been was Marcus.  He was obsessed with Josie from rescue to landing in London, then he just lets his friend take over.  Marcus is off-handed when asked about his nephews.  I would have rather seen Josie grab the boys and leave England with the Pinkerton agent and marry him!

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

Lord of Night by Erica Ridley

Miss Dahlia Grenville isn't like other proper debutantes.  She runs a home for wayward girls that has too many pupils and not enough donations.  Dahlia has the solution for her funding and is about to pull of the heist of the Season when she stumbles into the arms of Bow Street Runner, Simon Spaulding.

Simon Spaulting is a successful Bow Street Runner.  He is attempting to solve a rather unusual crime where the victim never realizes that their belongings have been taken until they receive a note.  When Simon realizes that the young woman that he has been courting is the thief behind his unsolved mystery, can he bring her to justice and risk losing her forever?


This novel is true Erica Ridley.  Well written, quick pace with characters the reader likes.  I liked how Dahlia stood up for her goals and opened the school for girls from the worst section of London.  Simon was the handsome hero that had the aristocratic bearing that comes from being the by-blow of a Marquess.  I enjoyed the Robin Hood sub-plot and the resolution.

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


Tuesday, July 25, 2017

A Dance with Seduction by Alyssa Alexander

I liked the books and the characters.  Vivienne Le Fleur isn't the typical debutante, but a sought after opera dancer and a spy known as the Flower.  When her sister is abducted by a French agent wanting her to be a double agent, she seeks Maximilian Westwood.  Maximilian is a retired code-breaker that now makes his living by translating for clients.  Will Maximilian and Vivienne be able to discover love in the world of secrets and espionage.


I really enjoyed how different this book is from what I have been reading recently.  I liked the danger and secrets in the book.  Vivienne was a bold character.  I loved how Maximilian was a true geek.  And the geek and beauty get their own HEA.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher.  I have voluntarily reviewed this ARC.

My Hellion, My Heart by Amalie Howard, Angie Morgan

Princess Irina Volkonsky has been called Ice Princess and other not so polite names because she has refused seven offers this season and it isn't her first season!  For Irina, the only man that she would marry is Lord Henry Radcliffe.

Henry Radcliffe, Earl of Langlevit is damaged from his service to crown and country.  He has been aware of Irina since she was 14 and his mother's ward.  Henry knows that he can never have Irina.

When they are thrown together, can they fight the attraction.

This is the third book in the series.  It can be read as a stand alone.  However, once I started, I wanted to read the other two!  I wanted to know what had happened when Irina and her sister were younger.

I loved the characters and the twists and turns in the book.

This was a great read!

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher.  I have voluntarily reviewed this book and have provided an honest review.

Monday, July 24, 2017

Stepbrother's Stowaway by Amber Bardan and Eden Summers

Nathan Hendrick has kept his desired hidden for his stepsister, Aria for years.  He had moved back to his home town of Greenpea, South Carolina, purchased a house.  Aria has tempted him for the last time by ending up naked in his bed.  Nathan is flying back to Seattle.

I absolutely loved this novella.  For the length, it was extremely hot.  I loved the forbidden relationship that got the HEA!

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Stepbrother's Stowaway.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

The Sheikh's Surprise Triplets by Leslie North

While I liked all three books in the series, this has been my favorite.  I loved the characters and the adventure that Basri takes Juliette on.  They were the perfect balance.  This was the perfect end for the series!

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




Addiction by Calista Fox

This is the second book in this series that I have read.  I like that it is a standalone, yet the other characters in the previous books play a part.  It is a quick, light, read.  Perfect for the beach.  I liked Nate and Tristan.  Because the book is so short, there is no back story for Nate and Tristan other than saying they are stepbrothers.

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


Saturday, July 8, 2017

Misconduct (Birmingham Rebels) by Samantha Kane

I have been waiting for Carmina to get her HEA.

Carmina de la Cruz was in Afghanistan when an IED hit the truck she was riding in.  She was left with a traumatic brain injury that impaired her speech.  Her best friend is Sam Taylor, linebacker for the Birmingham Rebels.  Through Sam, she has slowly broken out of her shell and met more of the team.

Tom Kelly looks like the All-American Midwest poster boy, but like most of the Rebels, he likes to play both sides of the field.  Tom realizes that he wants what his team mates are getting - a committed three-way relationship.  He wants Carmina in the middle with his friend Danny Smith.

Danny Smith has his kinks.  He gave in to his temptations once and he dosesn't want to go there again.  Danny is starting to realize that Carmina may be the link between himself and Tom.

I have been a huge fan of Samantha Kane since I read her first Brothers in Arms book.  I started the Birmingham Rebels series hoping it would be a good because I hate football.  I was hooked with the first book.

Danny and Tom were introduced as secondary characters in the first book and finally get their own HEA.  Carmina was struggling with her own issues and Danny and Tom helped her work through them.  I loved how Carmina found her own place with the team and was successful despite her injury.

Again, Samantha Kane has kicked the field goal!

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

The Wicked Heir by Elizabeth Michels

This book landed on the DNF pile.  I did not like the first chapter.  I felt like I was missing a lot of information.  I really didn't like Isabelle or Victoria.


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

To Seduce a Lady's Heart by Ingrid Hahn

Jeremy Landon has spend the last ten years paying all of his uncles debts and rebuilding his estates after he inherited the title of Earl of Bennington from his uncle.  He has one last debt to pay but Lady Rushworth is refusing to see him.  On his last attempt, he is successful though she has manipulated him into marrying her ward.

Lady Eliza Burke has spent her entire life living under her mother's oppressive rule and life is more unbearable with her father gone.  She promised to look after her cousin Christiana.  Now, her mother is marrying her off to the Earl of Bennington.  Eliza attempts to break off the marriage but ends up marrying the Earl herself!

Eliza believed that she would never find love.  When her new marriage started to show promise, a scandal threatened to tear them apart.  Can Eliza and her Earl find their happiness?


This book is why I love historical romance.  I loved the characters and the plot.  Every time I thought that Jeremy and Eliza would find common ground, something else happened!  The one thing that kept being brought up but never addressed was how Christiana was Eliza's half sister.  That was never fully explained.  It would have been a wonderful way to have Lady R being her evil self.

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

Scandalous Ever After by Theresa Romain

This book fell flat for me.  I did not like the characters.  The plot wasn't one that I liked.  For me this was put on the DNF pile.

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

Monday, July 3, 2017

The Sheikh's Pregnant Fling by Leslie North

Cassandra is a professional matchmaker and has found many client's HEA.  Unfortunately, she is too busy for romance and has no intention of marriage after watching her parents nasty divorce.  Cassandra meets Nasir at a wedding for two of her clients and in instantly attracted.  She has a casual affair with him that quickly becomes complicated once Cassandra realizes that Nasir is her new client and she is pregnant with his child.

Nasir has given all of his energy to the family business.  His mother is pushing him to settle down and has hired a matchmaker.  He doesn't want to date because he is enchanted by the woman he met at a friend's wedding.  When he finds out his matchmaker is Cassandra, he is devastated that she wants to keep things professional.  As Nasir is focusing on his business and blind dates, he can't get Cassandra off of his mind.  Can Nasir convince Cassandra that they are the perfect match?

This is the second book in the Azhar Sheikhs series.  I was thrilled that Nasir found Cassandra.  I loved Nasir.  This was a fun read, perfect for a lazy summer day.

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



Duke with Benefits (studies in Scandal #2) by Manda Collins

Lady Daphne Forsyth attracted the attention of Lady Celeste Beauchamp because she is a brilliant mathematician who is obsessed with puzzles.  When Lady Celeste passes she leaved Daphne and three other ladies as heiresses to her estate.  Daphne also receives a letter containing information of the legendary Cameron Cipher which when solved, holds the key to great riches.

Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland is curious as to why Daphne is so obsessed with his aunt's library.  He becomes more intrigued by her blunt manner.   When love enters the equation can they still concentrate on solving the Cipher?

I am beginning to think that Lady Celeste was doing a little matchmaking!  Daphne and Dalton are perfect for each other.  He understands her blunt manner and her unconventional upbringing.  I loved how the book included the other ladies in the house and Lord Kerr.  It was also a novel about friendship.  Daphne has finally solved 1 + 1 and ended up with Dalton!

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

The Sheikh's Fake Fiancee by Leslie North

Elena has graduated from college and is traveling around Europe with her friend Aubrey.  They are half way through their trip and are in Lebanon.  They go into a cafe to use the internet when Elena meets a handsome stranger.

Sheikh Asim has enough pressure from his business to deal with his mother forcing him to settle down and marry the daughter of a business acquaintance. He is enchanted by Elena's beauty and asks her to be his fake fiancee and help him get out of the arranged marriage.

As the days slip into weeks, Asim and Elena develop a relationship, but when he can not commit to resolving his engagement or to her, Elena returns home.  Can Asim repair the damage and face a future together?


Loved it!  There is nothing like a Leslie North Sheikh book.  I loved Asim and sweet Elena.  I could have done without some of Aubrey's quips and attitude.

This was a great start to the series!

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

Sunday, June 25, 2017

Say Yes to the Scot by May McGoldrick; Sabrina York; Lecia Cornwall; Anna Harrington

"Say Yes to the Scot" is a 4 book boxed set.  I normally steer clear of boxed set books because I haven't had good luck in the past.  I took a chance with this one and I was thrilled.  Every book was different and amazing.

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

The Pleasures of Passion by Sabrina Jeffries

When Brilliana Payne was seventeen, she fell madly in love with Niall Lindsey, heir to the Earl of Margrave.  Niall is forced to flee England after killing a man in a duel.  He begs Brilliana to go with him or asks her to wait for him.  Because of her mother's health, Brilliana tells him she can't leave.  Crushed, Niall is forced to flee alone.

Seven years later, Niall returns to England after being pardoned.  He is recruited by the government to catch a counterfeiter connected with his former love.  

Brilliana was forced by her father to marry another man shortly after Niall was exiled.  She is now a widow and wants nothing to do with Niall.   Brilliana is furious that she is being forced to work with Niall as his fake fiance to help save her father.  Her role brings out her long buried feelings toward Niall and her father. 

Will they be able to mend the broken ties that they once shared?


Niall was a wonderful hero.  I loved his back story and how his character evolved.  Brilliana was one of my favorite heroines.  She was determined to save her son's estate and was a devoted mother.  I loved how they slowly discovered what had happened and Brilliana was able to trust Niall again.

This was an amazing story that I couldn't put down.  I did not want it to end.

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

Addicted to the Duke by Bronwen Evans

When Lady Hestia Cary was sixteen, she was captured by Turkish pirates.  She was rescued by Alexander Sylvester Bracken, the Marquess of Tavistock.  Hestia didn't know that Alexander was rescuing her because he had been the captive of Sultan Murad Bayezid and he wanted vengeance.

Four years later Alexander is the Duke of Bedford.  After he has escaped his captivity, he has been using sex and laudanum to escape the demons that drive him. He has been summoned by Lady Hestia.  Her cousin has declared that her father died and is claiming his title.  Hestia knows that her father is not dead, but the only way to keep her safe is if she goes with Alex on the mission to find her father.


I was really torn about my feelings towards this book.  On many levels, it is a classic, sweeping romance that takes you from England to the Mediterranean and back to England.  There was the hero worship that Hestia had for Alex and the way it brutally crashed to returning to a strong love.  I thought the book was beautifully written.

But, I felt like I was constantly being reminded of Alex's addiction to opium and what he endured in Murad's captivity.  Then there was Murad.  I felt like the evil sultan was more of a main character than Alex or Hestia.

I wish the focus could have been more on Alex healing rather than man-whoring, laudanum drinking character he was while Hestia was in Wales pining for him to realize he loved her.

In the end, after Hestia realizes the true brutalities that Alex suffered, her hero-worship destroyed, she realizes that Alex is a strong man because of the brutalities he survived.

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




Friday, June 16, 2017

Eloping with the Princess by Robyn DeHart

Isabel Crisp has lived at St. Bartholomew's School for Girls for as long as she can remember.  Her uncle, Lord Thornton was too busy for her to come to his home during school breaks.  Her Aunt Lilith has come to get her along with Lord Lynford.

When she is nearly abducted as she left the school gate, they took her to the house of Viscount Jason Ellis.  As a member of the Brotherhood of the Sword, Jason is sworn to protect Isabel once it is revealed she is the last remaining member of the royal family from the island nation of Saldania and she is being used in a plot to usurp the throne from Victoria.

When Isabel realizes that the easist was to stop the attempts is to find a husband, she asks Jason to marry her.  Jason agrees to a marriage in name only but he is having a difficult time keeping his hands off his beautiful and tempting wife.


What a splendid book.  When I wanted to shake Jason for being so over the top with his situation, Isabel balanced it out by falling in love with Jason for who he was and wanting a real marriage.  There was a quiet sensuality to the book that flowed through the pages once Jason met Isabel.  I was on the edge of my chair with wanting to know what was going to happen next but not wanting the book to end.

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

Stirring Up the Sheriff by Leslie North

Marianne Stanton has bought her Aunt's Honky Tonk and is turning it into a brewpub.  Sheriff Trent Wild doesn't want his favorite bar to change.

I normally love Leslie North's books.  However, this one fell flatter than a beer left out on Marianne's bar.  I could not connect with Marianne or Trent.  Even Sabrina's walk-through in the beginning of the book felt off.

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