Monday, January 31, 2011

Romance Book Review: Naughty Godmother

Author: Chloe Cole
ISBN: 9781419932380
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing

Click here to purchase Naughty Godmother

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

On her first job as a Naughty Godmother, Fairy Holly must help turn a super nerd into a ladies man, but what she doesn't know is that the man she thought was a nerd is really an undercover security operative.

Alex isn't quite sure what is going on when Holly falls into his arms and tells him she's there to help him become a lady killer, but one thing is for sure he isn't going to let on that he isn't what he appears until he gets to know Holly a little better.

This is a cute and sometimes funny stories with sultry love scenes that make you want to fall in love with this mismatched couple.

Description:
It’s only her first day on the new job, and already fairy Holly Tucket is in over her head as she attempts to use her powers to turn super nerd Alex Nelson into a lady-killer. Little does she know Alex isn’t who he pretends to be, and when it comes to making women melt, he doesn’t need any help.

Security expert Alex Nichlaus has been undercover for four months and is putting the finishing touches on a smuggling case that has kept him secluded and celibate. When a sexy redhead shows up on his balcony claiming to be a fairy sent to teach him how to please a woman, he just can’t bring himself to send her away.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Romance Book Review: Shifting Sands

Authors: Jet Mykles, Kimberly Gardner, J.L. Langley, Willa Okati, Brenda Bryce, Ally Blue
ISBN: 978-1-60820-024-5 

e-ISBN: 978-1-60820-025-2

Genre: Witches/ Shifters/ M-M Romance


Click to purchase this book: Amazon

I've been waiting for chance to read a new J.L. Langley book so when I heard of Shifting Sands I jumped at the chance to get a copy. The anthology combines stories from several of the top male-male romance authors available.

The stories in Shifting Sands are all related. The book starts off with a Prologue telling the general link between all the short stories and then each author takes a character and develops the romance for each. All the story are well written the the connection is done so well you don't realize that someone else is writing each piece.

The stories revolve around Shifting Sands ranch owned by Daniel. For some unexplained reason Daniel find himself married to Yi. Unbeknowst to Daniel, Yi is a witch and when Daniel doesn't meet her expectations she decides to curse the ranch and everyone on it, save Russell the young hand she takes with her when she flees from the Ranch.

The subsequent stories involve each of the members of the ranch and their new found mates. When each member of the ranch falls in love their mate also is affected by the curse. Finally Daniel's is the last story told by Jet Mykles and it isn't until that story finishes that Daniel and the ranch hands learn the truth about Yi.

Good stories with well developed plot and great male-male love scenes for those who like this style of book.

Description:
A woman's wrath is bad, but a witch's wrath is hell on earth. No one knows this better than the six men of Shifting Sands Ranch. When the owner's Chinese witch of a wife abandons him and the ranch, she takes one of the cowboys and leaves behind a curse that dooms the remaining inhabitants to a life that is anything but normal. Now, every month when the moon comes full, each man takes on the form of an animal. Witches, shifters and ancient curses, such is life on the Shifting Sands.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Romance Book Review: Arctic Winds

Author: Sondrae Bennett 
Digital ISBN: 978-1-61650-227-0
Genre: Romance/ Paranormal/ Shifters/ Werewolf/ Fox
Publisher: Lyrical Press


Purchase this book through: Amazon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Hungry and sick Samantha stops in a strange town unaware that the town is inhabited by a wolf pack. As an arctic fox shifter, Samantha has heard many stories of stumbling in the path of other shifters. When she meets the pack's leader and faints in her arm all she can do is hope she makes it out of town alive.

Jason doesn't know what to make of the little shifter who just fainted in his arms, but he knows he wants her to stick around town for a while so that he can get to know her. His wolf is telling him she's the one he just hopes she sticks around town long enough so that he can convince her of that.

Well done first release for Sondrae Bennett. She has a nice writing style. The book was short, but well plotted and presented with enough of a storyline to keep the reader interested. Will be fun to keep the story going in a series about the rest of Jason's family.

Description:
Nothing will stop a wolf once he’s found his mate…not even her own doubts.

After her skulk abandoned her four years ago, Samantha knew she would never truly be wanted. When she accidentally stumbles into a wolf town and is asked by their premier to stay, she believes it’s the novelty of an arctic fox motivating him. She knows she’ll be on her own again once he tires of her.

Jason finds himself pulled to Samantha from the moment she faints in his arms. His wolf is calling to him, telling him he’s found their mate and the heat he feels for Samantha is impossible to resist. But his little fox is loaded down with emotional baggage and doesn’t believe she’s worthy of love. Can he overcome her fears? Or will pack jealousies and the local foxes convince her she doesn’t belong with him before he has a chance?

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Romance Book Review: Educating Macey

Author: Missy Jane
ISBN: 9781419932236
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Macey has become friends with her young gorgeous next door neighbor, but has no idea the man has any more interest with her than just straight friendship. That is until the day she stops by and he is watching a very interesting video that turns Macey on. All Macey has to do is be brave enough to take the chance with this younger man and who knows what possibles there might be.

Educating Macey is a quick fun read written in the first person.

Description:
Sex has taken a backseat on my priorities list for a while now—being a single mother never allowed me the chance to dwell on it. But then my daughter grew up and Max moved in next door. Just seeing his sexy-as-hell body and hearing the way he growls my full name, Macey Lane, gets me all hot and bothered. I am not a woman of experience, but Max is more than willing to teach me. His lesson plans may be too delicious to pass on, but is hot sex worth the risk of becoming another of his conquests?

Monday, January 24, 2011

Romance Book Scene: Scared of Spiders

Author: Eve Langlais
ISBN: 978-1-936279-63-0 
Genre: Paranormal/ Wolfshifter/ Multi Partner Romance
Publisher: Amira Press, LLC

Click to purchase this book: Amazon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

When Josie goes out looking for a new job the first thing she finds is a building filled with spiders. Her new bosses won't let her go because of a few eight-legged friends though.

Clint and Brandon recognize Josie as their mate right away. Not used to the idea of having to share a mate, the two werewolves wait give her a chance to wait to make her choice. They may not have time to wait though, as an unknown enemy comes after Josie.

Nice plot, and play on the whole scared of spiders angle. I would have liked to see the characters drawn out a little more, but all and all a nice read.

Description:
Bring on the bug spray, because to prevail, Josie’s going to have to face her greatest fear.

Josie’s not a brave person, and she’s especially scared of spiders. Imagine her surprise when she finds herself attracted to not one, but two, larger than life men.

Clint and Brandon both want the timid mouse who’s come to work for them—and their beasts are chafing to mark her—but when she can’t decide between them, there’s only one thing to do--share her.

Before they can convince Josie that a threesome would benefit them all, they need to take care of the menace threatening their chosen mate. And when Josie confronts the bogeyman of her nightmares, she discovers an emotion stronger than fear—love.

Romance Book Review: A Kiss for Luck

Author: Kele Moon
ISBN: 9781419932540
Genre: Erotic
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing


Click to purchase this book: Amazon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Jackson has been in love with his best friend Clara since 9th grade. They've been through everything together, even her disastrous marriage. Now she's single again and it is New Year's Eve. He's never stepped over the invisible line between friendship and lover and now he must decide whether he wants to take that chance. It could be the best thing that ever happened to him or he could lose his best friend forever.

The was the sweetest story, with a lot of very sexy parts. These two people have their own insecurities, but seem perfect for each other. I wish it were a full length novel and the author had time to explore their characters more, but as it was it was a quick fun read.

Description:
Dr. Clara Evans’ life has taken a turn for the worse. With a failed marriage behind her, Clara has only a bottle of wine and a romance novel for company on New Year’s Eve while waiting for the dreadful year to end.

Her lonely celebration is disrupted when her best friend Jackson Philips shows up and she couldn’t be more delighted. Tall, muscular and handsome, what’s not to love about the bighearted firefighter?

It’s not until she steals a desperately needed kiss for luck at midnight that secret desires and hidden heartaches rise to the surface, igniting an inferno of passion that burns hot enough to overwhelm even the most seasoned firefighter.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Romance Book Review: Winter Fire

Author: Jess Dee
ISBN: 978-1-60928-323-0
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Ménage

Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd.

Click here to purchase: Amazon 

Faced with having to spend the weekend with Jackson, the man she loves, but can never have, Rachel takes solace in another man's arms for a one night stand. What she doesn't realize is that the man she spends the night with knows Jackson and is out to show both Jackson and Rachel that they don't have to run from the love they both have for each other.

Well written fast read with hot and steamy sex scenes and a well written emotional plot. 

Description:
Guilty pleasures can heat the coldest winter night…

A Red Hot Winter story.

There’s never been any question in Rachel Ashberg’s mind. Jackson Brooks is the one, and they both know it. The problem? Thanks to his unbreakable rule—never date his twin sister’s friends—he’s completely off-limits. Even if they can’t imagine being with anyone else.

It’s been over two years since their last encounter, when they gave in—just once—to their passion. Now, as the Brooks twins’ milestone birthday approaches, Rachel and Jackson are about to meet again at a gorgeous mountain resort. Needing something to take the edge off the desire that has never faded, she indulges in a fling with sexy stranger Garreth Halt. He even makes her forget Jackson for a while. Or…maybe not.

When she mentions Jackson’s name in passing, Garreth picks up on all the hidden undertones in her voice. And he brings Jackson into their bed, if only in a fantasy they play out together. Funny thing about Garreth’s fantasies, though. Even the most improbable, impossible ones have a way of becoming reality…

Product Warnings
Enough heat is contained within these pages that you won’t even notice the winter cold. You might fall in love with Jackson—the real-life hero, determined to protect his sister from further pain—but it’s the handsome stranger, Garreth, who’ll take your breath away.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Romance Book Review: Pretty Baby

Author: Stormy Glenn
Series Connection: Wolf Creek Pack
ISBN: 1-61034-183-X
Genre: Paranormal/ Werewolf/ M-M
Publisher: Siren Publishing, Inc.

Click here to purchase this book through: Amazon

I was pleasantly surprised after I picked out Stormy Glenn's Pretty Baby this past week. I've read several of Stormy's books and series, but I hadn't picked up this particular series before and now I feel I've missed out.  

Pretty Baby has a really good plot with an excellent background story. Not that this isn't something that I haven't seen with Stormy's work before, but the storyline seems more drawn out and doesn't revolve around the sex between the two lead characters but more the events going on around their relationship. That turned out to be a good thing in this case. Not that I don't love a good erotic book, I just like it to be more balanced and Stormy Glenn does that in Pretty Baby.

In Pretty Baby, werewolf Tommy, meets his mate in a bar. Only to get him home and become interrupted by his family before he can fully claim his mate, Elliot. To make matters worse the two mates a further kept from mating when Elliot, who never knew he was a werewolf turns into one out of the blue and then doesn't change back into his human form for a little while.

Before Tommy and Elliot know it they are wrapped up in a drama that not only includes both of their families but secrets are revealed and the werewolves have to work to stop a madman from finding out how to create a genetic werewolf.

Description:
Elliot Spencer has spent his entire life trying to live up to his father's strict ideals and make him proud. When he meets a sexy at a bar, he decides for once in his life he's going to live by his rules, and that includes going home with Tommy Nash. He just doesn't know until it's too late that going home with Tommy Nash will mean changing the way he sees the world.

Tommy Nash is captivated by the chatty little man he meets at the bar where he works. Taking the man home for a night of wild sex is a no brainer, especially when he realizes that Elliot is his mate. What Tommy doesn't realize until it's too late is that Elliot is a wolf shifter like him, and Elliot doesn't know it. By the time Tommy is able to get Elliot calmed down, it's too late. He's attacked someone and Tommy's family doesn't want him to become involved with Elliot.

Together, they have to fight his family, Elliot's family, and a few people in between that believe they shouldn't be together. Tommy's biggest obstacle is proving to Elliot that they belong together and by the time he does, it may be too late. Someone is after Elliot and Tommy doesn't know if he can save his mate, even with his pack's help.

Monday, January 17, 2011

Romance Book Scene: The Cinderella Solution

Authors: Kyoko Sagara, Cathy Yardley
ASIN: B004F9PIFY
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Harlequin/ SOFTBANK Creative Corp.

Click here to purchase from: Amazon

Manga is all the rage for the teen set. So why not set a Harlequin romance in the manga style. First of all for those of you who haven't seen a manga there is a lot to know before you ever open a copy. Manga consist of comics and print cartoons, in the Japanese language and conforming to the style developed in Japan in the late 19th century. In their modern form, manga date from shortly after World War II, but they have a long, complex pre-history in earlier Japanese art.

Manga is read from the back of the book and to the front and from top right of the page to left and then down right to left again. A little confusing but once you get the hang of it, it is usually a fast read. Like with many romance books, Manga runs their books in series. So a book can play out 50 to 100 pages into a story and just seem to quit.

Many of the reviewers of The Cinderella Solution, thought the books were only samples of the actually story, but actually there are several books that make up on story. It is the same in many of the manga books. The story line continues from book-to-book.

The art inside the book is black and white with little definition, but enough to give a general impression of the scene.

In The Cinderella Solution, Charlotte is a tom-boy and best friend to Gabe. She's more comfortable in jeans and a sweat shirt. Because of the way she dresses her Gabe doesn't think she's series about getting married and starting a family. When Charlotte realizes this is the way Gabe feels about her it upsets her and she bets him that she can get a man in a month to propose to her. With the help of her friends she might just pull it off.

The Cinderella Solution and several others in the Harlequin manga romance books are being offered free for Kindle readers through Amazon. Simply check out the top 100 lists and look at the free books and you'll get a chance to download several.

Generally The Cinderella Solution is pretty much category romance for Harlequin. This is a cute little story and it is a different experience reading it in this version. These are perfect for the YA crowd.

Description:
You're not the type of girl who can attract a man. If you get proposed to within the next month, I'll give you a thousand dollars! Charlotte is a talented graphic designer, who spends her days in baggy jeans with ruffled hair. She knew her best friend, Gabe, doesn't see her as a lady, but if he's going to make such a bet, she can't just take it lying down! Charlotte decides to get back at Gabe by dramatically transforming herself..

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Romance Book Review: Tempting Mr. Parker

Author: Delilah Hunt
ISBN:978-1-926950-12-9
Genre: Contemporary Romance 

Publisher: Ever Night Publishing

Click to purchase from: Amazon

Shakara has loved Cade since she first met him, but he has shown her nothing but disdain. Having grown up with an abusive mother and out on the streets at sixteen with no other way to support herself except taking stripping jobs, Shakara refuses to apologize for what she is. She isn't ashamed that she has taken care of herself the best way she can.

What she doesn't understand is that Cade truly loves her and has had to work to not tell her. First she was too young for him and now because he doesn't know any other way. Can the two forgive the past and move forward in a world that might use their differences against them?

Great conflict and realistic story line. This is my first Delilah Hunt novel and I'm looking forward to checking out future books. The writing style is easy flowing and her descriptive love scenes are sensually erotic.


Description:
Thirty-nine year old CEO and architect Caden Parker is in love with Shakara James. For years he’s kept his attraction to the alluring stripper a secret, masking his guilty desire with disdain and contempt. When his hunger for the twenty-one year old becomes too hot to handle, he reveals his feelings, even though he’s afraid she’ll be disgusted and reject him.

Shakara yearns for the day when Caden, her best friend’s brother, will look beyond her poverty and the choices she was forced to make as a teenage runaway. As Cade’s feelings come to light, Shakara is stunned and overjoyed, but will there be consequences for their love?

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Romance Book Review: In Too Deep

Author: Jayne Ann Krentz
Series Connection: Looking Glass Trilogy/ An Arcane Society Nove
ISBN-10: 0399157026
ISBN-13: 978-0399157028
Genre: Paranormal/ Contemporary
Publisher: Putnam

Click to purchase this book through: Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Jayne Ann Krentz is one of my favorite romantic story tellers of all time. I have read and own every one of her books, with the exception of the first book that is so hard to find that some online sellers are selling it for $700 or more. That being said some may think I'm a little biased in my review of her new book In Too Deep. Actually though I believe this is one of her better books in the past couple of years.

I truly believe that the Arcane Society books should be read in order, as a complete series. Although the author does try to keep people up-to-date without making them read each book, there is a lot going on in the series.

With In Too Deep, Jayne starts a whole knew new series within the Arcane series. As with the previous series, Looking Glass Trilogy, will feature a story from each of the time periods that Jayne writes in under her different names, Jayne Ann Krentz, Jayne Castle and Amanda Quick. In Too Deep, is the contemporary book. Those she write as Amanda Quick are the historicals and Jayne Castle are the futuristic or Sci Fi versions.

With In Too Deep we finally get to spend some time with the mysterious, and most of the time abrupt, Fallon Jones. Fallon is in charge of Jones and Jones Investigations, the paranormal investigation agency that works mostly with the Arcane Society. There are rumors afloat that Fallon has gone over the edge, like many of the Jones men with his talent before him. Both Fallon and his cousin, Zack Jones, the head of the Arcane Society, think that this is an attempt to take over not only J&J, but also the Arcane Society as a whole, maybe even by the Arcane Society nemeses--Nightshade.

In the meantime, Fallon has finally gotten himself a new assistant. Isabella was mentioned in the previous story as the woman who worked across the way that Fallon was attracted to. Now she is working for him and he can't seem to get his mind off of her.

Isabella has a story of her own. In her previous line of work, before she came to Scargill Cove, she was being framed for stealing paranormal weapons. Rather than face prison she takes off. She has told no one but her grandmother, a infamous conspiracy theorist--who even has a blog, about what is going on. Her grandmother sends her to Scaegrill Cove and Fallon Jones for help.

Knowing who her grandmother is makes Fallon wonder if Isabella is really in danger of if she is just getting wrapped up in another conspiracy theory.

I really adore Fallon Jones. I've always thought he was one of the better characters in the Arcane series. True to form when Jayne brings his character to life there is so much more to him. He reminds me of some of the earlier hero characters from Jayne's category romance books. Isabella is a strong heroine with a lot of heart who is just right for him. The chemistry between Fallon and Isabella is off the charts good. For those who like the paranormal psychic angle stories this is a fun series.

Description:
Jayne Ann Krentz follows up her highly successful Dreamlight Trilogy — written in collaboration with her two alter egos, Amanda Quick and Jayne Castle — with a brand-new story arc that begins in a secluded coastal town in northern California.

Scargill Cove is the perfect place for Fallon Jones, confirmed recluse and investigator of the paranormal. It’s a hot spot, a convergence point for unusually strong currents of energy, which might explain why the town attracts misfits and drifters like moths to a flame. Now someone else has been drawn to the Cove — Isabella Valdez, on the run from some very dangerous men.

When she starts working as Fallon’s assistant, Isabella impresses him by organizing his pathologically chaotic office — and doesn’t bat an eye at the psychic element of his job. She’s a kindred spirit, a sanctuary from a world that considers his talents a form of madness. But after a routine case unearths an antique clock infused with dark energy, Fallon and Isabella are dragged into the secret history of Scargill Cove and forced to fight for their lives, as they unravel a cutthroat conspiracy with roots in the Jones family business...and Isabella’s family tree.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Good Read Top 10 Romance for 2010

Below is a list of the Top Ten Romance Novels from 2010 as decided by the members of the Good Reads Website.


Book 10
The Darkest Passion
Author: Gena Showalter

Series Connection: Lords of the Underworld
ISBN: 9780778303763
Genre: Paranormal
Published: May 2010


Purchase this book through: Amazon
\ 
Description:
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter returns with another sizzling installment of the Lords of the Underworld series as Aeron, keeper of the demon of wrath, finally meets his match...

For weeks, the immortal warrior Aeron has sensed an invisible female presence. An angel--demon-assassin--has been sent to kill him. Or has she? Olivia claims she fell from the heavens, giving up immortality because she couldn't bear to harm him. But trusting--and falling for--Olivia will endanger them all. So how has this "mortal" with the huge blue eyes already unleashed Aeron's darkest passion?

Now, with an enemy hot on his trail and his faithful demon companion determined to remove Olivia from his life, Aeron is trapped between duty and consuming desire. Worse still, a new executioner has been sent to do the job Olivia wouldn't.


Book 9
Play of Passion
Author: Nalini SinghSeries Connection: Psy-Changeling
ISBN13: 9780425237793
Genre: Paranormal / Werewolf/ Shirfter
Published: November 2010



Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:

In his position as Tracker for the SnowDancer pack, Drew Kincaid must rein in rogue changelings who've lost control of their animal halves- even if it means killing those who've gone too far. But nothing in his life has prepared him for the battle he must now wage-to win the heart of a woman who makes his body ignite...and who threatens to enslave his wolf.


Book 8
Love in the Afternoon
Series Connection: The Hathaways
Author: Lisa Kleypas
ISBN13: 9780312605391
Genre: Historical
Published June 2010



Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
 As a lover of animals and nature, Beatrix Hathaway has always been more comfortable outdoors than in the ballroom. Even though she participated in the London season in the past, the classic beauty and free-spirited Beatrix has never been swept away or seriously courted…and she has resigned herself to the fate of never finding love. Has the time come for the most unconventional of the Hathaway sisters to settle for an ordinary man—just to avoid spinsterhood?

Captain Christopher Phelan is a handsome, daring soldier who plans to marry Beatrix’s friend, the vivacious flirt Prudence Mercer, when he returns from fighting abroad. But, as he explains in his letters to Pru, life on the battlefield has darkened his soul—and it’s becoming clear that Christopher won’t come back as the same man. When Beatrix learns of Pru’s disappointment, she decides to help by concocting Pru’s letters to Christopher for her. Soon the correspondence between Beatrix and Christopher develops into something fulfilling and deep…and when Christopher comes home, he’s determined to claim the woman he loves. What began as Beatrix’s innocent deception has resulted in the agony of unfulfilled love—and a passion that can’t be denied…

Book 7
The Iron Duke
Author: Meljean Brook
Series Connection: Iron Seas
ISBN: 9780425236673
Genre: Steampunk
Published: October 2010


Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
First in an all-new series where seductive danger and steampunk adventure abound in the gritty world of the Iron Seas.

After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has built a merchant empire on the power-and fear-of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession.

But when Mina uncovers the victim's identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans-and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen, as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke.


Book 6
Promises
Series Connection: Coda Books
Author: Marie Sexton
ISBN13: 9781615813797
Genre: Contemporary/ M-M
Published: January 2010


Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
Jared Thomas has lived his whole life in the small mountain town of Coda, Colorado. He can't imagine living anywhere else. Unfortunately, the only other gay man in town is twice his age and used to be his teacher, so Jared is resigned to spending his life alone.

Until Matt Richards walks into his life, that is. Matt has just been hired by the Coda Police Department, and he and Jared immediately become friends. Matt claims he is straight, but for Jared, having a sexy friend like Matt is way too tempting. Facing Matt’s affair with a local woman, his disapproving family, and harassment from Matt’s co-workers, Jared fears they'll never find a way to be together—if he can even convince Matt to try


Book 5
The Search
Author: Nora Roberts
ISBN13: 9780399156571
Genre: Contemporary/ Suspense
Published: July 2010

Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Descritpion:
The #1 New York Times bestselling author presents a riveting novel where a canine search and rescue volunteer fights danger and finds love in the Pacific Northwest wilderness.


To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life-a quaint house on an island off Seattle's coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescues. Not to mention her three intensely loyal Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare...

Several years ago, Fiona was the only survivor of the Red Scarf serial killer, who shot and killed Fiona's cop fiance and his K-9 partner.

On Orcas Island, Fiona found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. But all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He's the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon's house, and he's at his wit's end.

To Fiona, Jaws is nothing she can't handle. Simon, however, is another matter. A newcomer to Orcas, he's a rugged and in-tensely private artist, known for the exquisite furniture he creates from wood. Simon never wanted a puppy and he most definitely doesn't want a woman.

Besides, the lanky redhead is not his type. But tell that to his hormones.

As Fiona embarks on training Jaws, and Simon begins to appreciate both dog and trainer, the past tears back into Fiona's life. A copycat killer has emerged out of the shadows, a man whose bloodlust has been channeled by a master with one motive to reclaim the woman who slipped out of his hands.


Book 4
Savor the Moment
Author: Nora Roberts
Series Connection: Bride Quartet
ISBN13: 9781423368885
Genre: Contemporary
Published: January 2010


 Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:  
#1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts cordially invites you to meet childhood friends Parker, Emma, Laurel, and Mac — the founders of Vows, one of Connecticut’s premier wedding planning companies.

Laurel McBane has always relied on her friends for support, especially when her dream of attending culinary school was almost ruined by her parents’ financial problems. Now Laurel is repaying the kindness of her friends by creating extravagantly luscious tiers of cakes and other confectionary delights that add the perfect touch to their clients’ weddings.

As for romance, Laurel believes in it — in theory. But she’s too low-key to appreciate all the luxuries that other women seem to long for. What she does appreciate is a strong, intelligent man, a man just like Parker’s older brother, Delaney Brown, on whom Laurel has had a mega crush since childhood. But some infatuations last longer than others, and Laurel is convinced that the Ivy League lawyer is still out of her reach. Plus, Del is too protective of Laurel to ever cross the line with her, or so she thinks.

When Laurel’s quick- silver moods get the better of her — leading to an angry, hot, altogether mind-blowing kiss with Del — she’ll have to quiet the doubts in her mind to turn a moment of passion into forever.


Book 3
First Drop of Crimson
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Series Connection: Night Huntree World
ISBN13: 9780061583223
Genre: Paranormal/ Vampire
Published: February 2010


 Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
From the New York Times bestselling author of the Night Huntress series comes a breathtaking new journey to the dark side of desire.
 

The night is not safe for mortals. Denise MacGregor knows all too well what lurks in the shadows—her best friend is half-vampire Cat Crawfield—and she has already lost more than the average human could bear. But her family's past is wrapped in secrets and shrouded in darkness—and a demon shapeshifter has marked Denise as prey. Now her survival depends on an immortal who lusts for a taste of her.

He is Spade, a powerful, mysterious vampire who has walked the earth for centuries and is now duty-bound to protect this endangered, alluring human—even if it means destroying his own kind. Denise may arouse his deepest hungers, but Spade knows he must fight his urge to have her as they face the nightmare together . . .

Because once the first crimson drop falls, they will both be lost.

Book 2
Safe Haven
Author: Nicholas Sparks
ISBN13: 9780446547598
Genre: Contemporary
Published: September 2010


Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
When a mysterious young woman named Katie appears in the small North Carolina town of Southport, her sudden arrival raises questions about her past. Beautiful yet self-effacing, Katie seems determined to avoid forming personal ties until a series of events draws her into two reluctant relationships: one with Alex, a widowed store owner with a kind heart and two young children; and another with her plainspoken single neighbor, Jo. Despite her reservations, Katie slowly begins to let down her guard, putting down roots in the close-knit community and becoming increasingly attached to Alex and his family.

But even as Katie begins to fall in love, she struggles with the dark secret that still haunts and terrifies her . . . a past that set her on a fearful, shattering journey across the country, to the sheltered oasis of Southport. With Jo's empathic and stubborn support, Katie eventually realizes that she must choose between a life of transient safety and one of riskier rewards . . . and that in the darkest hour, love is the only true safe haven.

Book 1
Lover Mine
Author: J.R. Ward
Series Connection: Black Dagger Brotherhood
ISBN: 9780451229854
Genre: Paranormal/ Vampires
Published: April 2010

 
Click to purchase this book through: Amazon

Description:
In the darkest corners of the night in Caldwell, New York, a conflict like no other rages. Long divided as a terrifying battleground for the vampires and their enemies, the city is home to a band of brothers born to defend their race: the warrior vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.
John Matthew has come a long way since he was found living among humans, his vampire nature unknown to himself and to those around him. After he was taken in by the Brotherhood, no one could guess what his true history was- or his true identity. Indeed, the fallen Brother Darius has returned, but with a different face and a very different destiny. As a vicious personal vendetta takes John into the heart of the war, he will need to call up on both who he is now and who he once was in order to face off against evil incarnate.

Xhex, a symphath assassin, has long steeled herself against the attraction between her and John Matthew. Having already lost one lover to madness, she will not allow the male of worth to fall prey to the darkness of her twisted life. When fate intervenes, however, the two discover that love, like destiny, is inevitable between soul mates.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Romance Book Review: Slow and Sweet: A Love Story With Zombies

Author: Stephanie Beck
ISBN: 978-1-920468-39-2
Genre: Paranormal/ Sweet Romance
Publisher: Silver Publishing

Click to purchase this book at: Amazon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Clearing up her father's home after his death, Abby discovers a lab in his basement where her father had conducted experiments. Soon the local residents are looking to her to help them and continue her father's work. It seems that half of the town are zombies and without her help they might start eating other people.

From the first time Dan, the town's milkman and not a zombie, saw her he has been attracted to Abby. He can't believe she's as interested in him as he is in her. He knows that this is a love that can last so he wants to take things slow and sweet.

This is the second book I've read by Stephanie Beck in the past few of weeks and she's definitely worth reading again. Both books were different styles. The first, A Winter Tale: With Marshmallows, was about a tough as nails werewolf assassin, this one was about a sweet romance. Both were well written quick reads that I would have love to have seen made into full novels.

Description:
Abby's plan was to sell her father's home in South Dakota after his death, not take over his medical practice. Not that she's sure of the right name for the zombie clinic she ends up running in the small town full of reanimated, highly functional, non-brain eating zombies.

Dan, the strapping, sexy, non-zombie milkman is all too happy to lend a hand, and overwhelmed, Abby is grateful for his help. When that helping hand leads to something more, Abby is hopeful about where Dan's sweet and slow brand of courting might lead. The town's peaceful fall festival is interrupted when teenaged zombie hunters invade. Abby and Dan will have to work together to not only keep their secrets, but save their friends.

About the Author
Even before she understood what all the thrusting meant, Stephanie Beck loved reading romance. When the stories didn't end the way she wanted, writing her own was the perfect solution. From ridiculous humor to erotica, Stephanie loves being transported within a story. When she's not elbow deep in words, her husband and two daughters command her attention. After they are sleeping, she knits or bakes cookies… or squeezes in more writing.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Romance Book Review: From Pack To Pride

Author: Amber Kell 
Series Connection: Supernatural Mates
ISBN: 978-0-85715-377-7
Genre: Paranormal/ M-M/ Werewolf/ Werelion/ Shifter
Publisher: Total-e-bound


♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

In fear that his brother will be killed by another wolf in the pack, Adrian's alpha send him on a diplomatic mission that will keep him protected and also find him a mate. Adrian is sent to live with a lion pride. Adrian knows he can take care of himself, but he has no choice but to follow his alpha's decision.

As leader of the lion pride, Talan protects his family and all of his pride, but he's lonely for a mate. With one look at the picture sent to him from the wolf pack, Talan knows that Adrian is that man. When Adrian arrives at the pride house, Talan know he has to take the mating slow to make sure that all goes well, but he can barely keep his hands off the beautiful man who is his mate.

This looks to be a promising series. The first story, although short, already gives some clues in the shifter world created by Amber Kell. Male/Male love scenes.

Description:
Book one in the Supernatural Mates Series

When a wolf shifter joins a pride of lions, the fur flies.

When Adrian is sent to live with the lion pride for his own safety, little does he know that the pride alpha is already culling him from the pack. With one picture, Talan knew Adrian was his mate.

Now he has six months to persuade Adrian to stay in his pride forever and keep a psychotic wolf from killing him.

Friday, January 7, 2011

Romance Book Review: The Boys Next Door

Author: Sierra Dafoe
ISBN: 978-1-60928-277-6
Genre: Western Romance/ Erotic Romance
Publisher: Samhain Publishing


Click here to purchase this book through: Amazon

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

For twenty years Annie has felt regret about leaving her home town at 17 and the boys next door she left behind. She had spent her life loving brothers Tommy and Judah. As they got older she had become Tommy's girlfriend and then in one day everything changed when she gave into her feeling for Judah. Feeling the guilt and knowing she couldn't live with it anymore she ran away from both of them.

Judah can't believe it when he sees Annie coming out of his old family home. All he can do is think about getting away from her and making sure his brother doesn't know she's there. She hurt his brother and broke Judah heart once before he won't give her the chance to do it again.

He just can't seem to get her out of his mind though and when it seems like she's still in love with Tommy, Judah can't think of anything to do but the honorable thing and let Tommy have her. But Tommy has other ideas.

Good quick read, featuring strong characters struggling with a love that has lasted through the years. I like the fact that the author doesn't make them just decide in the first few chapters what they should do. She gives everyone time to deal with all that is happening now that they are older, and hopefully wiser.

Description:
Love takes courage. Loving two men takes twice as much.

At seventeen, Tommy Ambinder was Annie Parsons’ first love, the center of her world. Almost. There was a secret spot reserved for Judah, Tommy’s elder brother. On the day she discovered Judah wanted her, as well, the aftermath drove Annie out of town—and a wedge between the men she loved.

Now, haunted by guilt, Annie has returned to Melgrove, Montana, with one hope in her heart—that twenty years has overcome the rift between the Ambinder boys. If they’ve mended fences, maybe she can repair her own life too.

Tommy’s missed Annie all these years, but he never realized how much until one glimpse reignites the passion that time hasn’t quenched. Something else hasn’t changed, either—half of her heart still belongs to Judah.

Now, with Annie poised to run again, history is threatening to repeat itself—unless one of them has the courage to break free of the pattern and blaze a new trail that’s wide enough for all three.

Warning: this book contains all the volcanic intensity of first love, searing-hot sex scenes, and two brothers sharing the one woman they love!