Saturday, July 31, 2010

Romance Byte: Water Bound


Author: Christine Feehan
Series Connection: A Sea Haven Novel
ISBN: 978-0515148244
Genre: Sci Fi/ Fantasy/ Romance
Publisher: Jove


Click Here to Pubchas Water Bound (A Sea Haven Novel)

Christine Feehan’s #1 New York Times bestselling Hidden Currents may have closed the Drake Sisters saga—which “brought paranormal romance to a new high”*--but it has opened the door to an all~new series of startling magic, mystery, and the soul~stirring elements of nature….

Description:
The last thing Lev Prakenskii remembered was being lost in the swirling currents of the ocean and getting sucked deeper into the nothingness of a freezing black eddy off the coastal town of Sea Haven.  Just as quickly, just a miraculously, he was saved—pulled ashore by a beautiful stranger.  But Lev has no memory of who he is—or why he seems to possess the violent instincts of a trained killer.  All he knows is that he fears for his life, and for the life of his unexpected savior.

Her name is Rikki, a sea~urchin diver in Sea Haven.  She has always felt an affinity for the ocean, and for the seductive pull of the tides.  And now she feels drawn in the same way to the enigmatic man she rescued.  But soon they will be bound by something even stronger, and their tantalizing secrets will engulf them both in a whirlpool of dizzying passion and inescapable danger.


Put together a fun online puzzle of the cover of Water Bound Coutesy of Christine Feehan.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Romance Book Review: Long Time Gone

Author: Meg Benjamin
Series Connection: Konigsburg, Texas
ISBN: 978-1-60928-108-3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Samhain Publishing


Click here to purchase 

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Long Time Gone is the fourth in the  Konigsburg, Texas series. It isn't necessary to read the first three books before this book. Although members of the characters from previous books play large roles in this book, but the author does a good job at keeping the reader informed for the book's sake.

Morgan has spent the last year trying to show her father and his partner that she could make a good manager of the their vineyard. It just doesn't seem that anything she tries is working. In the mist of the busiest tourist time at the winery she meets the sexy new Chief of Police. Overtired and overworked she can't help but spend some time in the chief's arms.

Erik didn't expect to get the position of chief of police we he applied like all the other officers on the Konigsburg police department, but now that he has the job he has his hands full with taking care of the town, the assorted preppy bikers and a mayor is out to have him replaced as chief. One look at the sleepy Morgan with the Bambi eyes he knows he's a goner.

With so many things to worry about it is a wonder Erik and Morgan can find time together, much less figure out if they have a future together.

Meg Benjamin relates the appealing story about two people at a crossroads in their life, living with the problems of the past and trying to forge a stronger future for themselves.

I liked Erik's character. Although Morgan sees him as very handsome, when he thinks of himself, he isn't anyone that a woman would be interested in.  His insecurities of his past actions and his remorse seems so real you just want to give the guy a big hug. Morgan's own insecurities and issues make them a good pair.



Description:
A future with the woman of his dreams is within his grasp…if the past will stay that way.

Erik Toleffson wasn’t looking to become Chief of Police. He’s got enough trouble trying to rebuild his relationship with his three brothers who, until just recently, ran the other way when he approached. He’s not the bully they grew up with, but bad memories are tough to overcome.

Morgan Barrett is as worn out as a vat full of crushed grape skins. She never planned to run Cedar Creek Winery, but there’s no one else to shoulder the load as her father recovers from an injury. All she needs is a little sleep. Just a five-minute nap in the booth at the Dew Drop Inn…if that guy across the bar would stop staring at her as if putting her head down on the table is a crime.

After Morgan yawns in Erik’s face, there’s nowhere to go but up. With time, though, their relationship warms like a perfectly blended Bordeaux. Until the shady mayor digs into Erik’s past and dredges up information that could drive a permanent wedge between him and his brothers—and sour any chance of a future with Morgan.

Warning: Contains hot sex with mango sherbet, crooked politicians, yuppy bikers, Bored Ducks, and a Maine Coon Cat with attitude.

Romance Byte: Alison's Wonderland

Author: Alison Tyler
Several stories penned including: Portia Da Costa and Elspeth Potter
ISBN: 9780373605453
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Spice 


Click here to purchase Alison's Wonderland

Description:
Over the past fifteen years, Alison Tyler has curated some of the genre's most sizzling collections of erotic fiction, proving herself to be the ultimate naughty librarian. With Alison's Wonderland, she has compiled a treasury of naughty tales based on fable and fairy tale, myth and legend: some ubiquitous, some obscure—all of them delightfully dirty.

From a perverse prince to a vampire-esque Sleeping Beauty, the stars of these reimagined tales are—like the original protagonists—chafing at desire unfulfilled. From Cinderella to Sisyphus, mermaids to werewolves, this realm of fantasy is limitless and so very satisfying.

Penned by such erotica luminaries as Shanna Germain, Rachel Kramer Bussel, N. T. Morley, Elspeth Potter, T. C. Calligari, Sommer Marsden, Portia Da Costa and Tsaurah Litzsky, these bawdy bedtime stories are sure to bring you (and a friend) to your own happily-ever-after.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Romance Byte: Tempting The Fire

Author: Sydney Croft
Series Connection: Arco Series
ISBN-10: 0385342284
ISBN-13: 978-0385342285

Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Bantam Dell


Click here to purchase Tempting the Fire

Description:
EXTREME HEAT. EXTREME HUNGER. A JUNGLE EDEN ABLAZE WITH TEMPTATION..

Shockwaves shoot through the Agency for Covert Rare Operatives (ACRO) when horrific video surfaces from the Brazilian rain forest. A team of Navy SEALs has been nearly wiped out by something sinister and superhuman. Now ACRO agents Sela Kahne and Marlena West head to the world’s most unforgiving jungle in pursuit of a mythical monstrosity with a taste for human blood. And the only path that will take them to the creature runs through two men, each hiding his own dark secret.

Sela is an expert on cryptozoology with a sideline skill that could prove invaluable: when she makes love to a man, she engulfs his innermost thoughts. Teamed with Marlena, Sela makes contact with the lone SEAL survivor, Chance McCormack. Meanwhile Logan Mills, the man who rescued Chance, leads his private company on a hunt that has nothing to do with saving lives. Soon, Sela will put her supernatural charms to work on Logan, determined to extract information about the creature they are seeking. But in this sweat-drenched realm of danger and deception, Logan is more than just a passive target. He has the power to lead a highly-trained seducer into a jungle without any rules, without any limits—and no end to the heat.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Romance Byte: Into the Crossfire

Author: Lisa Marie Rice
Series Connection: Protectors
ISBN-10: 0061808261
ISBN-13: 978-0061808265

Genre: Erotic romance/ Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Avon Red


Click here to Purchase Into the Crossfire: A Protectors Novel 

“Edgy, sexy, endlessly exciting, Lisa Marie Rice never disappoints! I can’t get enough of Lisa Marie Rice’s sensual, hard hitting stories!”
—New York Times bestselling author Shannon McKenna


A rising star in erotica, author Lisa Marie Rice launches her new Protectors series with Into the Crossfire—introducing the first of three super-hot ex-Special Forces operatives willing to walk through fire for the women they love. Romantic suspense has never been this thrilling and scintillating!

Description:
Former Navy SEAL Sam Reston keeps to himself. His world is dangerous, uncertain, violent...and there is no room in it for the helpless and weak. Then the most beautiful woman in the world moves in next door to him . . . .

Nicole Pearce's life is complicated enough—with an ailing father and a new business to worry about—and the last thing she needs is to get involved with a secretive, hard-bodied, hardheaded neighbor. Yet Sam leaves her breathless—her body tingling with erotic desire—and it takes every ounce of her fabled control to resist offering herself to him, no strings attached. What she doesn't know is that Sam Reston is on an undercover assignment . . . and she's about to step into the crossfire.

Never has Sam ached for a woman so badly, and he's never fallen in love before. Now that Nicole is in grave danger, he will become her shield, and guard the tempting body he longs to touch and taste. Because a terrorist plot hatched half a world away is heading to their doorstep—and it can only be derailed by one man and one woman.

About the Author from her website:
Lisa Marie Rice is tall and willowy and beautiful. She has won every major book prize in the world. She is a black belt with advanced degrees in archaeology, nuclear physics, and Tibetan literature. She is a concert pianist. In truth, she is a virtual woman who exists only at the keyboard when writing erotic romance. She disappears when the monitor winks off.

Romance Byte: Falcon's Captive

Author: Vonna Harper
ISBN-10: 075822947X
ISBN-13: 978-0758229472

Genre: Erotic Romance/ Paranormal/ Shifter
Publisher: Aphrodisia

Click here to Purchase Falcon's Captive

Description:

Savage
High above the desert valley, the Falcon Jola circles over the band of warriors below-men who have invaded her land and killed her mate, leaving her alone and longing for the piercing pleasure she once found in her lover's arms. She will resist these outsiders at all costs. . .

Sexual

But in a moment of human weakness she is caught. Naked and alone, she fights her captor and vows never to submit. Yet as she lies beneath his rock hard length, her traitorous body responds to his touch. . .

Surrender
Each rough caress creates a smoldering heat inside, a throbbing pressure that demands release. Lost in a haze of sexual pleasure, she is a slave to her desire-and can only beg for more.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Romance Byte: The Darkest Lie

Author: Gena Showalter
Series Connection: Lords of the Underworld
ISBN-13: 978-0373774616
Genre: Paranormal/ Fantasy/ Futuristic
Publisher: HQN Books

Click here to purchase The Darkest Lie (Hqn)

Description:
In this riveting new installment of New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter’s Lords of the Underworld series, Gideon, keeper of the Demon of Lies, fights to uncover the truth….

Forced to his knees in agony whenever he speaks the truth, Gideon can recognize any lie—until he captures Scarlet, a demon-possessed immortal who claims to be his long-lost wife.  He doesn’t remember the beautiful female, much less wedding — or bedding — her.  But he wants to . . . almost as much as he wants her.

But Scarlet is keeper of Nightmares, too dangerous to roam free, and a future with her means risking everything.  Especially as Gideon’s enemies draw closer . . . and the truth threatens to destroy all he’s come to love . . .    

Monday, July 26, 2010

Romance Book Review: Talk Dirty to Me

Author: Inez Kelley and Ginny Glass
ISBN: 9781426890420
Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Carina Press

[Excerpt]


♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
 
Charming love story featuring a college professor who meets a grad student he would like to get to know. When he reads her dissertation he decides that her ideas aren't quite right. What follows is a sometimes funny, very often erotic tale that will keep the readers wondering who would be the better lover -- "James" or Jerod.


Wonderful effort between two gifted erotic writers.


Description:
"Tell me what you want. Talk dirty to me."

Biologist Nora MacGregor is frantic when she loses her dissertation notes on female sexuality-and some very personal fantasies. Then a sinful stranger calls with a wicked proposition: if she talks dirty to him, he'll return her notes, page by page. "James" allows Nora to explore her deepest desires and challenges her clinical ideas about sex. But James can't give her the loving touches she finds in her budding relationship with Dr. Jarod Reed.

Jarod seized an opportune moment to fulfill his desire for Nora by becoming the mysterious James. While the anonymous, erotic phone sessions are unforgettable, Jarod longs to tell Nora he wants more than just talk. But how can he confess his deception without it costing him the chance to make their fantasies a reality?

Romance Byte: The Homecoming

Author: JoAnn Ross
Formerly: Ricochet
Series Connection: Shelter Bay #1
ISBN-10: 0451230671
ISBN-13: 978-0451230676
Publisher: Signet


Click here to Purchase The Homecoming: A Shelter Bay Novel

Description:
Your first love never really fades away.

Former Navy SEAL Sax Douchett has returned home to the small coastal town of Shelter Bay, Oregon, determined to put war behind him and get on with his life—which is easier said than done when everyone is hailing the former bad boy as a local hero. Adjusting to a new beginning becomes even more difficult when he unearths a long-buried secret that, in turn, reunites him with a cherished part of his past that he’s never forgotten.

Drawn back into his life is Sheriff Kara Conway, his best friend’s girl for a long as he can remember---a girl who always held a special place in Sax’s heart. But as he cautiously reconnects with Kara and bonds with her young son, another long-held secret in Shelter Bay threatens their second chance at a forever-after love.

Romance Book Review: Eagle's Redemption

By: Cindy Spencer Pape
Series Connection: Texas Passions
ISBN: 9781419928826
Genre: Erotic Romance/ Paranormal/ Western/ Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Ellora's Cave

[Excerpt]  


♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Fast paced, erotic romance featuring an former police officer who moves to a Texas ranch he inherited with his two siblings after an on the job incident leaves him unable to go back to work.

Now learning to adapt to ranch life he meets Carmen, a young legal blind woman who has a gift with taking care of injured and sick wild animals. While Dash and Carmen are falling in love there is someone out there watching that wants revenge against Dash and will do anything to get it.

I would have loved to learn a little more about Carmen's magical skills with healing animals, otherwise a good read with a good story and characters.

Description:
Dash Hyde is a former Chicago cop, scarred both inside and out. When he inherits a share in a Texas ranch, the last thing he expects is to meet a woman who can see past the scars to his very soul—even though she’s nearly blind.

Carmen Whitefeather loves taking care of wildlife, but the damaged man she finds on her doorstep with an injured eagle fascinates her even more. The spark between them is instant and overwhelming, and she’s determined to enjoy every second.

As Carmen and Dash explore the passion they find in each other’s arms, they both take the risk of getting burned. When an old enemy of Dash’s targets Carmen, Dash will have to face his deepest fears and walk into the flames to fight for the woman he loves.

Featured Author: Nancy Bush—The path to a great writing career.

In 1975 Nancy Bush bumped into a fortune teller celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at a popular Irish bar in Portland, Oregon.  Always intrigued by the unexplained, Bush dared the woman to read her palm.  The fortune teller informed Bush that she would someday be a writer and have one child, who would be the single most important thing in her life. 
  
At the time both writing and children were the furthest things from Bush’s mind.  A graduate of Oregon State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Foods and Nutrition, Bush was working at a bank and honing her business skills.  She was dating her husband-to-be, Ken Bush, but at the time they had no plans to marry.  She thought the palm reader’s prediction was little more than a clever act.
   
Little did she know how close to the truth the fortune teller’s vision of her life would become.  She married Ken Bush in 1976 and gave birth to her only daughter, Kelly, in 1980.  A year later, Bush read an article in Time magazine about young mothers who, after their last child was put to bed and the final diaper washed, pulled out their typewriters and began penning romance novels–for money!  Bush told her sister, Lisa Jackson, “I think we could do that,” and overcoming Jackson’s arguments that they were both mystery readers, not romance readers and therefore didn’t have a snowball’s chance in Hades of writing one, Bush began developing her first romantic novel.  Jackson eventually agreed to be a part of the project.

    The sisters and a friend spent half a year creating, writing and rewriting a book they titled STORMY SURRENDER.  Bush retyped the work and sent it to many New York publishing houses, which all rejected the novel as being “too suspenseful”, “not romantic enough” or “having too much mystery.”  The team of three split up, and Bush, reading that Young Adult romance novels were the next big thing, turned her attention to the teen scene.  Though she complained to a friend that she didn’t think she could “roll back the years to the senior prom,” her friend disagreed and, sure enough, she was soon pounding the keys of the typewriter again, this time focusing on teenaged angst.  was finished a few months later.  Retitled ABBY’S CHANCE to DARE TO LOV by Silhouette Books, Bush’s first novel was published in November 1982.
  
From the moment of the first sale, Bush was hooked on writing.  In the ensuing years she wrote more than thirty novels, the bulk for Silhouette Books’ Special Edition imprint; plus a series of historical romance novels set in 1880s Oregon for Pocket Books, several young adult series and five Nancy Drew Mysteries. 
   
During this time she also turned her attention to script writing.  Through perseverance Bush was awarded a chance to move to New York and be part of a soap opera writing workshop.  There, with her husband’s support, she eventually worked as a breakdown writer for “All My Children,” developing a storyline into daily scripts.  She ultimately returned to Oregon to write a mystery series of her own.
   
In 2003, at home with her husband and Pug puppy, The Binkster, she penned GINNY BLUE’S BOYFRIENDS, a “chick lit” novel that chronicles the life of Ginny Bluebell, a commercial film production manager in Los Angeles, who reviews the list of men she’s dated and wonders “what was I thinking?”. 
   
Bush moved from chick-lit directly to mystery, selling a mystery series to Kensington Publishing.  CANDY APPLE RED is the first of the Jane Kelly mysteries.   In CANDY APPLE RED Jane answers the question, “Whatever happened to Bobby Reynolds?” a family annihilator missing for four years.  Along the way Jane inherits a Pug, reconnects with an old love and wonders if she’ll ever be able to swim in Lake Chinook again now that a dead body’s been found floating in its green depths.
   
Bush couldn’t be happier finally being able to write the kind of books she loves to read.  The Jane Kelly character is an amalgam of herself and her daughter, Kelly.  The idea for Jane’s Pug was actually conceived before Bush bought her own dog, three year’s ago.  The Binkster originally came to life within the pages of CANDY APPLE RED but now is an entertaining member of the Bush family.
   
Bush, always an avid reader, loves to work crossword puzzles, read mystery novels,  walk around a nearby Oregon Lake, and spend time at the beach with her husband, daughter, sister and dog.  Glimpses of her life sometimes appear in the pages of her books.  She has several more Jane Kelly Mysteies in the works and is considering writing a sequel to GINNY BLUE’S BOYFRIENDS.
   
Thirty years after the fact, she looks back at the chance meeting with the fortune teller in the Irish bar and realizes it truly was fate.  As it turns out, the palm reader was right on the money.

Romance Byte: Blind Spot

Author: Nancy Bush
ISBN 10: 1420103415
ISBN 13: 978-1420103410
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Zebra


Click here to purchase Blind Spot

[Excerpt]

Description:
The crime scene at an Oregon rest stop is brutal beyond belief - a young man's lifeless body cut to ribbons, and his pregnant girlfriend left alive but comatose.

Psychologist Claire Norris is assigned to treat the survivor at a private mental hospital. But there are no clues to the identity of the catatonic 'Jane Doe'. A difficult job only becomes more complicated with the arrival of ex-homicide detective Langdon Stone, who questions Claire's every move.

Reluctantly working together, Claire and Lang begin to unravel the chilling truth about a twisted case - one with ties to a killer who is right in their midst, eager to see a mission of evil through to its terrifying end.

Romance Byte: One Night

Author: Debbie Macomber
ISBN-13: 978-0061081859
Genre: Contemporary Sweet Romance
Publisher: Harper Collins
Reissue

Click here to purchase One Night

Debbie Macomber has updated and redone some of the comedy romance. In her latest newsletter she says: "If you're in need of a good laugh, I highly recommend this romantic comedy. I reread thestory and refreshed it before publication, and there were parts that had me laughing out loud, especially when the hero gets tossed in jail . . . but I don't want to tell you too much. Trust me, you're gonna giggle."

Description:
Love is on the air

Morning deejay Carrie Jamison spouts the quirky brand of comedy Kansas City loves to wake up to. She's skyrocketing in the ratings, and her quick wit has won her the admiration of everyone at KUTE radio—except Kyle Harris. A serious, no frills newscaster, Kyle disapproved of Carrie's antics, and isn't afraid to broadcast his feelings to her or anyone else. When the tension between them approaches a meltdown, the station manager delivers a shocking ultimatum: Carrie and Kyle must make nice or end up on the unemployment line.

With so much at stake, how hard could it be to give peace a chance? As they both open up to the possibility, they are startled to discover how simple it is. And, even more surprising, how quickly the warmth of friendship can flare into the splendors of love.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Romance Byte: McKettricks of Texas: Austin

Author: Linda Lael Miller
Series Connection: McKettricks of Texas
ISBN: 978-0373774463

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Western
Publisher: HQN Books


Click here to purchase McKettricks of Texas: Austin (Hqn)

Description:
World champion rodeo star Austin McKettrick finally got bested by an angry bull. His career over, his love life a mess, the lone maverick has nowhere to go when the hospital releases him. Except back home to Blue River and the Silver Spur ranch. But his overachieving brothers won’t allow this cowboy to brood in peace. They’ve even hired a nurse to speed along his recovery. Paige Remington’s bossy brand of TLC is driving him crazy. As is her beautiful face, sexy figure and silky black hair.

Paige has lost count of the times Austin has tried to fire her, but this determined nurse is not going anywhere until he’s healed, body and heart.

Austin’s brothers are laying bets that Paige’s place in his life just might become permanent.

Also available:
McKettricks of Texas: Tate

and

McKettricks of Texas: Garrett (Hqn)

Romance Byte: The Way To A Man's Heart

Author: Mary Ellis
Series Connection: The Miller Family
ISBN-10: 0736927344
ISBN-13: 978-0736927345

Genre: Inspirational/ Sweet Romance
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers

Click Here to Purchase The Way to a Man's Heart (The Miller Family Series)

Description:
Mary Ellis (A Widow’s Hope and Never Far from Home) concludes her bestselling The Miller Family series with another engaging story set in Holmes County, Ohio.

Leah Miller is living her dream come true as she invests in a newly restored diner that caters to locals rather than tourists. Can Jonah Byler convince this shy, quiet young woman that she should leave her adoring fans and cook only for him?

Leah’s sister, Emma, is trying to adapt to married life as New Order Amish along with her husband, James, who gave up his Englischer ways to make Emma his bride. Will his commitment to Emma and to God stand firm when temptations from his past come to call?

Ellis offers readers another captivating novel filled with strong characters and a loving look at how faith in God and connection with family can fill to overflowing an open, waiting heart.

About the Author: 
Mary Ellis grew up close to the eastern Ohio Amish community, Geauga County, where her parents often took her to farmer's markets and woodworking fairs. She loved their peaceful, agrarian lifestyle, their respect for the land, and their strong sense of Christian community.

She and her husband now live close to the largest population of Amish in the country--a four-county area in central Ohio. They often take weekend trips to purchase produce, meet Amish families, and enjoy a simpler way of life.

Mary enjoys reading, traveling, gardening, bicycling and swimming. But her favorite pasttime is snorkeling, which she seldom gets to do living in Ohio. She is a former middle school teacher and a former saleswoman for the world's best chocolate company. Now she writes full-time and wonders why her house is still dusty and her garden has so many weeds.

Romance Byte: Three Nights With A Scoundrel

Author: Tessa Dare
Series Connection: Stud Club Trilogy, Book Three
ISBN-10: 0345518896
ISBN-13: 978-0345518897
Genre:  Regency/ Historical
Publisher: Ballantine
Release Date: July 27, 2010

Click here to Purchase Three Nights with a Scoundrel

Description:
The third time is the charm.

The bastard son of a nobleman, Julian Bellamy is now polished to perfection, enthralling the ton with wit and charm while clandestinely plotting to ruin the lords, ravish the ladies, and have the last laugh on a society that once spurned him. But meeting Leo Chatwick, a decent man and founder of the exclusive Stud Club, and Lily, Leo’s enchanting sister, made Julian reconsider his wild ways. When Leo’s tragic murder demands that Julian hunt for justice, he vows to see the woman he secretly loves married to a man of her own class.

Lily, however, has a very different husband in mind. She’s adored Julian forever, loves the man beneath the rakish facade, and wants to savor the delicious attraction they share — as his wife. His insistence on marrying her off only reinforces her intent to prove he is the only man for her. Obsessed with catching a killer, Julian sinks back to the gutters of his youth, forcing Lily to reach out with a sweet, reckless passion Julian can’t resist. Can her desire for a scoundrel save them both–or will dangerous secrets threaten more than their tender love?

Romance Byte: Tall, Dark & Hungry

Author: Lynsay Sands
ISBN 10: 0-8439-6344-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-8439-6344-1

Genre: Paranormal/ Vampire
Publisher: Avon; Reprint edition
Reissue

Click Here to purchase Tall, Dark & Hungry (Argeneau Vampires)

Description: 
It bit...

New York hotels cost an arm and a leg, and Terri had flown from England to help plan her cousin's wedding. The new in-laws offered lodging. But they were a weird bunch.

There was the sometimes-chipper-sometimes-brooding Lucern, and the wacky stage-actor, Vincent. (She couldn't imagine Broadway casting a hungrier singing-and-dancing Dracula.).

And then there was Bastien. Just looking into his eyes, Terri had to admit she was falling for him - someone even taller, darker and hungrier than the other two. She was feeling a mite peckish herself. And if she stayed with him, those bloodsucking hotel owners wouldn't get her!

Romance Book Review: Jager's Mate

Author: Marisa Chenery
Series Connection: Roxie's Protectors/ Wulf's Den
ISBN: 978-1-59578-718-7
Genre: Paranormal/ Werewolf/ Erotic Romance
Publisher: Liquid Silver

As the foretold one Roxie is in great danger of those who want to control her and gain control of all the wolf shifters. For thousands of years Jager and his brothers and sister in arms have trained to protect the foretold one.

The immediate threat to Roxie is a former protector. Miles is working to unite the lone wolves. Jager confronts one of those lone wolves in an alley late one night, but rather than take in the lone wolf, he finds something much more valuable in the alley that late evening.

Out on her regular nightly patrol, Daylen sees two men fighting with swords in a dark alley. As a cop who has seen nearly everything, this is a surprise to Daylen. Going to break up the fight she fearlessly goes into the alley on her own.

Jager's Mate is another in the short story series of Roxie's Protectors. The general theme of the story is predictible. Daylen is human and knows nothing of the Were world. She is thrown into the mix quickly when she is kidnapped to use as a pawn. I like Daylen's strong willed character and Jager, who is basically been rude and abnoxious in the previous books finally shows some other character traits. 

Description:
Daylen is a cop, and a good one. When she stumbles on two men sword fighting in an alley during one of her nightly patrols, she confronts them and orders them to put down their weapons. Ignoring her, one of the men takes off running faster than she's seen anyone move. With one man left, she knows she'll have to take him down when he ignores her demand that he lay his sword on the ground and slowly approaches her. Just before she can cuff him, he pins her to the alley and kisses her senseless.

Knowing the lady cop is his mate, Jager likes that she was able to get the drop on him. No wilting flower would ever survive as his mate. After tasting her lips for the first time, he knows it won't be easy to claim her as his. She may be a mortal and he a werewolf, but the bigger problem standing between them would be his having to stop Daylen from trying to arrest him whenever they meet. As their passion flares, he'll do anything it takes to make her his mate.

Next in the Roxie's Protectors series: Leif's Surrender

Friday, July 23, 2010

Romance Book Review: Dangerous

Author: Diana Palmer
Series Connection: Long, Tall Texans
ISBN-10: 0373774591
ISBN-13: 978-0373774593 

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Series Romance/ Western
Publisher: Harlequin 
 
Click here to Purchase Dangerous

♥ ♥ ♥

I am generally a huge fan of Diana Palmer. I know to some it isn't in vogue saying that. Her books generally seem outdated compared to the vast amount of erotic romance that is filling the bookshelves these days. I, however, like the young virgin heroines and the "long, tall Texans" rancher, cops and ex-mercenaries who fall in love with them. I generally look forward to reading the series additions long before they come out.

I knew Kilraven's story would be out this month and anxiously awaited it. I wasn't even daunted that it was a hardcover because I knew that I would want to read it no matter what. Afterall, it was the next in a series of more than 30 books and I have read every one, plus it's off-shoots.

I was, however, a little disappointed as I read through the book and became completely lost with the plot. As I said I have read all the books and I knew the before story of Kilraven and Winnie. I knew the 911 dispatcher, Winnie,  had a crush on the FBI agent, Kilraven, who was working in Jacobsville with Cash Grier and impersonanting a local policeman. (That appeared to be the worst kept secret in Jacobsville, so I wasn't sure why they were trying to have him undercover there).

I had always thought he worked for the FBI, even in the inside bookflap description they call him an FBI agent, but in the book they make it clear he doesn't work for the FBI, he's called a Fed numerous. There are even more than one reference that he works for the CIA. I couldn't make heads or tails of that.

Then there was the subplot to the story. That was suppose to be finding out who killed Kilraven's baby daughter and other members of his family seven years ago. Trying to figure out the mystery of where the author was going with the story was more of a mystery then the actually mystery in the story. (Does that make sense?)

The story goes like this. Kilraven somehow, (and really here is where I'm confused I have no idea how) finally has a lead in the case of his daughter's death. He needs to enlist the help of Winnie because her family owns a beach house right next door to one of the people he suspects is involved with the little girl's murder and a series of other murders. He suggests that Winnie marry him so that he doesn't ruin hers or his reputation by spending several days at her beachhouse.

The rest of story is learning about Winnie's past, finally hearing the full story about Kilraven's daughter and her murder and pulling the case together.

For a long time I was really confused and at a loss to why Kilraven needed Winnie's help in the first place. I couldn't figure out why he even thought the death of his child had anything to do with a string of other recent murders.  I re-read the paragraphs and susequent books and couldn't find the answer.

I know in the grand scheme of things the story is all about the romance. I also like the way Diana Palmer throws in little tidbits of history and talk about video games and dispatchers. Yeah it is plain Diana Palmer doesn't play the games, but it is fun to read anyway.  It makes the characters more human. Kilraven was a little disjointed in his character. In past books we've gotten to know Kilraven. He's a nice guy with a haunted past. He's kept away from Winnie because he knows she has a crush on him.

Now because she has this connection suddenly he decides he will use her and even possibly hurt her to get the answers he needs, despite all the warnings from people around him. It is just too out of character for him. Also the whole plan to get married for reputation sake is ridiculous. Just get married because you need a good cover story for being at the beach house together. The whole thing could even be staged. They didn't really need to get married at all, especially because he had planned not to even invite anyone.

In the end all the questions are finally answered, yada, yada, yada. (Don't want to spoil the ending!)

I still love Diana Palmer. I'll definitely read the next book in the series because I've been hooked for years. It is hard for me to give her a bad review because I enjoy the storyline and the concept of the series as a whole. I also really like Winnie's character. She stayed true to form from when we met her in the past. She was a little afriad of both her brother, Boone, and Kilraven, but she toughens up like all the young women do in the series.

Those coming new to the series might want to read the previous three or four books to get caught up with this part of the story.

I do have one last question. Why is that Kilraven and Jon Blackhawk, who have the same father, have two different last names? Did I miss something somewhere? It is mentioned in the book, but only that Kilraven doesn't want to talk about it.

Description:
He is every inch the desperado.

Tall, lean and headstrong, FBI agent Kilraven lives by his own rules. And one of those rules includes keeping his hands off Jacobsville’s resident sweetheart, Winnie Sinclair, no matter the temptation. Shy and innocent, Winnie couldn’t handle a man like him—a merciless man with a haunted past. And this small town may hold not only the woman he fights to resist, but the answers to a cold case that is very personal to Kilraven....

Winnie has had her own share of sorrow and senses Kilraven’s pain. Even though she tries to deny it, the gentle 911 operator feels a connection with the darkly handsome agent. When he makes the disturbing discovery that her family’s unsavory past might have a bearing on his case, Winnie is determined to help him crack it...and the ice around his heart.

As they combine forces in a dangerous investigation, the stakes rise ever higher. Winnie’s life is on the line, and she’ll need Kilraven more than ever. But if they are to have a future together, her ruthless Texan will need to confront his past and risk it all for their love.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Romance Book Review: Falling Fast

Author: Cerise DeLand
ISBN: 978-1-60735-122-1
Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance/ Western-Cowboy
Publisher: Resplendence Publishing, LLC

Click here to purchase Falling Fast

Sorry for not showing the cover of this book, but while I liked the cover it was a little too much for this site. You can find it by clicking the link above.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

When Shana was new at her career as a reporter she wrote a story that she thought ruined the career of Bronc rider Kade. When the new rodeo that Kade works for enlists the help of the PR firm she is now working for to come up with a promotional campaign. She decides this is her chance to make it up to the man who has filled her sexual fantasies for years.

This is one of those stories that while it is short and is filled with many erotic scenes it also relates an appealing story from Shana's point of view as she struggles with her guilt of what happened in the past and reconciling with the feelings she is developing for Kade now. Well written and plotted.

Description:
When Shana Carpenter meets Kade Stapleton years after she ruined his bronc busting career, she wants to make amends to him by building his reputation as a rodeo manager. But her plans go haywire when she faces him and is stunned by her irresistible desire for him. Making love to him often every day, though, cannot erase her guilt. And when she realizes she loves him, she finds herself with a bigger problem. Can she ever forgive herself for what she did? Can he ever forgive her? And can he ever wholly love her?

About the Author from the back of the book:
Cerise DeLand believes great romances match feisty women with one—or more—men who cannot live without them. And Cerise knows men—all types of them from living in Italy, England, Japan, New York, Washington—and wild west Texas! She blends that intimate knowledge with a passion for European and Chinese art and travel to delightful lands she loves to write about.
An award-winning author, Cerise has also penned 18 print romances and mysteries (under another name), many of which have been selections of The Doubleday Book Club and The Mystery Guild. And what does this prolific author do when she’s not writing? Ah. She is an excellent cook. To taste and prepare a few of her delicacies, do come to her blog, especially on Thursdays for her Afternoon Delights, elegant simple refreshments to serve after your rendezvous!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Current Byrnn Paulin Books

Belonging To Them
Series Connection: The Daly Way
ISBN: 978-1-60735-141-2
Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance/ Ménage
Publisher: Resplendence Publishing

 CLick here to purchase Belonging to Them (The Daly Way)

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Running from an ex who doesn't want to let her go, Rayna's car breaks down in a small town where there are only seven women and one-hundred and fifty men. When she finds herself without access to the her credit cards and bank accounts the guys at the local garage make her an offer she finds it hard to refuse.

For those who enjoy a good Ménage with a love story ending this short erotic romance makes for a good read. Rayna's sentitivity for Jamie's issues are well written and make up a wonderful heroine character. 



Description:
On the run from her past, Rayna Halliday is devastated when her old car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. She soon finds that her ex has managed to block her credit cards, her accounts and even her cell phones in an attempt to exert his control over her. Giving in to him is something she refuses to do.

When the owners of O’Keefe’s Gas and Repair come to her rescue, they make her an offer that tantalizes the forbidden desires within her—she can find a way to pay for the car repairs or she can belong to them for two weeks and they’ll see to her repairs for free. At the sexual mercy of four gorgeous men for two weeks… Why not? She can have fun and get things straightened out, all at once. But there are two problems heading her way: an ex on a rampage and her heart that’s in for more than just fun.


Forgotten Family
Series Connection: Circle of Three
ISBN: 978-0-85715-149-0
Genre: Ménage à Trois/ MMF
Publisher: Total-E-Bound  

Description: 
They'd found happily ever after - then one of them forgot.

Twelve years ago, Marina Cranston and her lovers Kyle Gerber and Marcus Byrnam founded the community of Cranston as a youthful flight of fancy. Young and idealistic, they wanted to have a place to share their love and reside with people who understood and lived the same lifestyle. Bliss was theirs with troubles staying outside Cranston's gates. Until a year ago...

Tragedy struck and they've struggled to recover, but when Marina is in a car accident, she forgets Kyle and Marcus. Now the trio must fight for a future. If they fail, the very bedrock of Cranston will be fractured, but the damage to their hearts will be even greater.

Kidnap and Kink
Series Connection: Taboo Wishes
IBSN: 978-1-60735-161-0
Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance/ BDSM 
Publisher:  Resplendence Publishing

Click here to purchase Kidnap and Kink (Taboo Wishes)

Description:
Be Careful What You Wish For…

Jenna Marks has a secret fantasy, to be kidnapped, tied up and seduced. When she confides her secret to her best friend on a dare, she never imagines her wish might come true.
Rob Colvin, owner of The Dungeon, has had his eye on Jenna for months, but he didn’t think Jenna would be into the things that make him hot. When he overhears her secret, he knows he’s going to be the one to deliver her fantasy—one weekend of her submission to him, her mysterious and masterful lover.

Romance Byte: Love In The Afternoon

Author: Lisa Kleypas
Series Connection: Hathaways
ISBN-13: 978-0312605391
Genre: Historical
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks

 Click here to Love in the Afternoon (Hathaways, Book 5)

The 5th & final in the Hathaways Series.


Description:
Captain Christopher Phelan has been corresponding with the beautiful golden-haired Prudence Mercer while he was away fighting in the Crimean War. What he doesn't know, however, is that the woman who wrote to him is actually Prudence's best friend, Beatrix Hathaway.
Upon his return home to Hampshire, it becomes clear that Christopher's experiences in war have changed him. In this scene, Beatrix and Christopher argue over the dog he brought back with him, a regimental mascot named Albert . . .