Monday, October 28, 2013

Romance Book Scene: Celia Kyle's Whitney


Author: Celia Kyle
Series Connection: Alpha Marked
ISBN: 9781310856358
Genre: Paranormal, Werewolf, Erotic Romance
Publisher: Summerhouse Publishing

Purchase Link: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords

Whitney has never looked forward to the 30 birthday she shared with her sisters. At thirty all those with the Alpha Mark was able to go off and meet their destined mate. That would never be Whitney, since her two sisters had the mark and she didn't. What she didn't expect was the letter that arrived on her 30th birthday with the invite for her to attend the gathering.

The next thing she knows she's running off to the gathering with her sisters, but she knows their must be a mistake. All she wants to do is meet with those in charge and get the whole thing over with so she can go home mateless. 

As soon as Wardens of the Gathering, Emmett and Levy meet Whitney they know something must be wrong. Wardens don't have mates. They aren't allowed to mate even if they wanted to, but they are hard pressed to get their wolves to comply and when they do start the matting all hell breaks loose because there all those who don't want tradition screwed with.

This is the third and final book in the Alpha Marked series. These triplets are nobody's fool. They will take on any mate and even though Whitney may want to be the sweet and innocent type, she'll kick butt if she needs to. Of the three snarky sisters, I like Whitney best of all. 

These books are short, but a fun read. Start with the first as they shouldn't be read on their own to best understand the story.


Description:
Thirty and single? Well, getcha ass to the Gathering!

Whitney Wickham is at the darned annual werewolf Gathering all right.  Only there’s one problem: she doesn’t belong there.  Her sisters carry the Mark indicating they’ll mate an Alpha Pair of wolves, while Whitney does not have that lovely, swirling scar.  She’s been hauled half way around the world to be stared at, and not-so-covertly sniffed, for no reason.  Unfortunately the gorgeous, drool worthy, magic-mojo-wielding Wardens don’t know why she’s been summoned to the Gathering any more than she does.  Which sucks. But at least they’re hot.
Emmett Greene and Levy Walters are Wardens—keepers of the law and embodiment of the magic of the werewolves.  They can never mate, never marry, and never form a lasting romantic relationship. It’s a hard and fast law that keeps their powers pure of outside influence.
Rules are going to be broken.

One look at Whitney, one hint of her scent, and they realize their immovable laws might have to jiggle. She’s got luscious curves, a wicked smile, and a mouth that would make a thousand men weep.  No matter the rules, their inner wolves will claim her. The only things standing in their way are the Elder Wardens who will do anything… anything… to keep Emmett and Levy from discovering the truth: the laws are wrong. And being with Whitney Wickham is so very, very right.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Romance Book Review: Kat Attalla's Sex and Key Lime Pie


Author: Kat Attalla
ISBN: 978-1-77145-068-3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Books We Love Ltd.

Purchase Link: Amazon

Hoping to do more than clear out her stepfather's house, but also clear herself of old memories Cheyanne makes a trip home. As she cleans the house she spends time with old friends, including her ex.

The last time she saw Luc he ripped out her heart telling her she never wanted her and only spent time with her because it would upset her stepfather, who was his father. Now she can't get rid of him. He's sending mixed singles and all she knows is he's the last person she should be getting involved with. Especially since she has a big secret she hasn't told him about yet.

Luc was angry when his father left everything to Cheyanne when he died nine years ago and he admits he shouldn't of taken it all out on her. He can't even remember exactly what he said to her the last time he saw her, but he knew it was enough to make her leave and marry someone else before he could get to her and apologize to her. No she's back and all he can think about is being with her again, but he knows she plans to leave again and he's not sure if he can take that again.

There are many books that offer what I like to call the "Harlequin Formula" and many times the story turns out just ho-hum, been there, read that. In this case, yes the author uses that same formula, but this book is well written with a few twists that take us away from the old, same old. I liked the heroine. She is strong and sweet, always working to help people when she can. She could have been bitter as so many other woman would have been, but that isn't in her character. 

The hero is the normal confused male, who wronged the heroine, but hasn't yet comes to terms with his part in the reasons for Chayanne keeping a big secret from him or come to terms with his feelings for her. 



Description:
Cheyanne Dupree, European trained chef, has a recipe for everything, except happiness. A decade earlier, she inherited a fortune but lost Luc Allesandro, the rightful heir to the family estate and the love of her life. She returns to her childhood home for her tenth high school reunion and attempts to clear out the ghosts that haunt her. Luc has spent the past few years trying to forget Cheyanne. His company has become profitable, and he doesn’t need reminders of his past interfering with his future. As far as he is concerned, she made her choice when she took the money and walked away. Luc is not ready to forgive, but Cheyanne won't let him go until he hears the truth. A truth that will change both their lives forever.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Halloween Romance Book Review: Theodora Lane's Second Moon


Author Theodora Lane
ISBN: 978-1-59578-499-5 
Genre Paranormal, Wolves, Contemporary, Shifter, Magic, Witches
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books

Purchase Link: Liquid Silver Books | Amazon

After leaving her sister at their monthly meeting place, Sam sees a scruffy man standing near a motorcycle watching her. As she starts driving on the lonely highway, Sam notices a lone headlight in the behind her and begins to get nervous. She isn't sure, but for some reason she realizes that the creepy guy is following her. Making a quick decision she stops at an open bar hoping to call the police. Instead she finds a police officer and quite possibly the love of a lifetime.

Deputy Sheriff, Duke, is spending a lonely evening in the bar contemplating his life. He has faced the fact that he's been dying since the day he mate died a few years back. As a werewolf he know he can't live without a mate. No one he has seen has even sparked an interest in him, until she walks into the bar. Sam could very well be the mate he's been looking for and could save his life. He's just got to tell her that werewolves exist and hope she doesn't go screaming out the door and take his second chance with her.

It's Halloween eve and anything is possible, especially with the rare second full moon of the month. 

Very sensually pleasing book filled with romance and emotion. Duke is a strong hero willing to surrender to Sam's strength which is written in so sexy that no one will be able to resist Duke for long.

This book was first released in 2008.

Description:
Duke Stevens is dying. Since he lost his wife and mate Grace, he’s faced one certain fact, a werewolf without his mate will waste away and die. And for a man like Duke, that’s no way to end his life. He doesn’t have much time left and only two options – a slow death or a fast one at the end of his gun. His only hope is to find a new mate and the chances of that are slim.

But on the night of the Second Moon, strange forces are at work, driving Samantha Waters toward her destiny and Duke.

Duke knows the moment he meets Sam he’s found his mate, he just has to convince her of two things, he’s a werewolf and she’s his mate. He needs her to fall in love with him and marry him as soon as possible, because every moment counts for Duke.

But Sam isn’t going to give in so easy. She’s been down the rough road of love before and she won’t be pushed or rushed into anything, especially marriage. Not by Duke, not by his dying wolf, or even Duke’s desperate family.

For Duke to win Sam over he’s going to have to get her to open her heart to him and to accept her own truth – Sam is a witch.

Friday, October 25, 2013

Romance Book Scene: Shannon Guymon's You Belong With Me

Author: Shannon Guymon
Series Connection: Love and Dessert Trilogy
ISBN: 978-1490303437
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Purchase Link: Amazon

When her Layla's grandmother dies she leaves her bakery to her granddaughters to take over. At a crossroads in their life the three sisters decid to take over the bakery. Layla, a burt out social worker ready to take on a new career when she gets the letter of her inheritance and her sisters convince her to change her mind. They all move to the small town where their grandmother's bakery is located.

When they first get to town the sisters meet little Stella and her dad Michael. At first Layla doesn't like that Michael is a real estate who has been instructed to present a deal from a real estate developer for the bakery property. After getting to know him and his daughter a relationship begins to form. But when Michael's ex-wife come back into the picture, all changes.

In the meantime the sisters adjust to their new life, each sister determined to make the change and find a new man to share their life with.

This is a great start to a new series. The three sister's each have different personalities with their own issues and challenges and the men each chooses will bring them even bigger challenges, but should be half the fun. This is a sweet romance with no sex or love scene.

Description:

Layla Kendall is the oldest of three sisters. She's a burned out social worker one step away from a major depression and she needs a fresh start. When she and her sisters Kit and Jane inherit their grandmother's bakery, she doesn't know if she can trust her good fortune or not. 

Life has taught her that happiness is just an illusion. But the chance to be with her sisters and get away from the heart ache and pain she's faced day in and day out is a chance she's going to take. The fact that they don't know anything about running a bakery won't stop them. With Layla's new life, come new connections and friendships including Michael Bender, a single dad and someone who wouldn't mind getting to know Layla better. 

She doesn't trust men and she doesn't want to change her mind but Michael's little girl Stella grabs her by the heart and won't let go. When Layla and her sisters realize that there are people who want to see them fail, it will take a lot of heart and courage to keep going. Layla will have to let go of the past in order to grab onto the future if she'll ever find the love she needs.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Romance Book Review: Holley Trent's Calculated Exposure


Author: Holley Trent
Series Connection: Saint and Scholar
ISBN: 9781616504915
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Lyrical Press

Purchase Link: Lyrical Press

Erica was looking for something when she visited Ireland but it wasn't a relationship with an Irishman even though one did catch her eye. Not finding the spark to make her photography better, she made her way back home to America. Since she'd been back she couldn't get her mind off of Curt, the Irishman, who just happened to live not far away from her. 

Curt didn't really need the distraction of the pretty girl he met in Ireland, but when she called him when he got back to America he couldn't resist seeing her and let her make good on the sexual promise she made him. 

One date turns into two and before they know it, the two are getting involved, but neither of them are ready for that even though they both begin to think they might want to be. In the meantime, Curt is dealing with all kinds of issues back home in Ireland and Erica is still trying to find the muse for her photography.

This story takes place a couple of years after Saints and Scholars and features Grant's former roommate Curt. Whenever Grant's roommates were brought up the stories were always about the wild and crazy antics of the three roommates. This story paints a picture of Curt as a ladies man, even though he is a bit of a nerd. So he's an unlikely hero to begin with, which just adds to his charm. 

Although she hasn't always been Erica is a spitfire that is a good match for Curt.


Description:
She went to Ireland looking for a muse, but found a mathematician instead.

Photojournalist Erica Desoto has spent five weeks in Western Europe hoping for inspiration, with just one decent photo to show for her effort. And that shot was accidental. As her sabbatical comes to a close, she’s ready to give up on her portfolio altogether.

Serial dater Curt Ryan isn’t looking for love…or even a distraction. With a PhD to finish and his family under intense scrutiny by the Irish press, he already has too much on his plate. But when his godchildren barrel into a pretty American who just happens to live a few hours from where he studies in North Carolina, a new distraction is exactly what he gets.

Back in the States, Erica and Curt initiate an incendiary no-strings-attached affair that inevitably has both questioning what they want…and what they’re willing to do to get it. Mathematician Curt risks emotion clouding his logic. For Erica, keeping her muse close may mean embracing the exact things she ran from as a young woman. Is exposing their hearts a calculated risk both are willing to take?

CONTENT WARNING: Contains Cubana snark, adult language, and explicit sex including back door loving.

Monday, October 21, 2013

Romance Book Review: Samantha Darling's Revenge in Rio


Author: Samantha Darling
ISBN: 9781937325916
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Beachwalk Press

Purchase Link: Beachwalk Press

In her debut book, Samantha Darling introduces the classic revenge plan storyline. Luca was dumped by his fiance, Daniella, for his brother years before. Now his brother is dead and he plans to get even with even with Daniella for breaking his heart. Of course it won't be as easy as he plans and he has to remind himself that she hurt him and he wants to hurt her as much as she hurt him.

Daniella hasn't had the easiest of times in the past five years since she let Luca go. His brother was not the man Luca thought he was. Now she is seven months pregnant and Luca doesn't want to let her out of his sight and she can't help but want him all over again. 

Samantha Darling has a nice voice throughout the story with strong characters, even if it is a tired storyline. It will be interesting to see where her next story takes her. 

Description:
Calculated revenge, unexpected passion…

Business magnate Luca Venancio is returning to Rio to pay his respects to his late brother, and to seduce his once fiancée, Daniella, back into his bed. Five years ago she left him without so much as a word, shunning him and the rich life he could offer in exchange for his younger, reckless brother. Now Luca wants revenge—seduce her and dump her, that's all he intends to do.

Blackmailed into a violent farce of a marriage, Daniella had no choice but to comply to protect Luca's life, even though it meant never being able to see him again. Years later, a twist of fate reunites them, throwing her plans of fleeing Rio out of the window and the love of her life straight back in.

Luca's flawless plan soon becomes complicated when he discovers Daniella is expecting his brother's child. It becomes even more complicated when old passions return. Can he actually go through with seducing her, bedding her, and then discarding her?

Romance Book Review: Martha O'Sullivan's Chance Encounter


Author: Martha O'Sullivan
ISBN: 9781603108348
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Red Sage

Purchase Link: Red Sage

On her way to the wedding of her college roommate and a business meeting in San Francisco, Delaney meets the captain of the plane, Mike, she's on from Chicago. The handsome pilot helps her off the plane with her luggage and that is the end of that, or so Delaney thinks, until she meets him again at her friend's wedding. 

Mike takes one look at the pretty passenger in first class and falls instantly in lust. The woman is beautiful and he has every intention of seeing her again. He just didn't expect it to be in Lake Tahoe the next night at his best friend's wedding. Spending the week with Delaney he fall instantly in love. Delaney has been hurt before, being left at the alter will do that to a woman. Now Mike has to convince her that they should have a life together even though they live 2,000 miles away. 

There is just one little snag though, someone in Delaney's past is watching and he might just have something else planned for the lovers before they can have their happily ever after. 

This book is much better than the first in the series. I liked both Delaney and Mike, even though I felt she could have been a little stronger. While the storyline is great and I like the two characters, the ending of the book gets a little muddled so I feel obligated to know off a point for that. Still I feel this series has merit and can't wait to read the next in the series. 

Description:
Delaney Richards had given up on love. The long hours at the office were finally paying off—she could all but feel the vice-presidency in her bones. She was counting on this week in San Francisco to seal the deal. But first she had to get through the weekend and the wedding—the first since her own wedding. Almost wedding, that is. You can’t have a wedding without a groom.

 Captain Mike Savoy hadn’t counted on seeing Delaney Richards at his best friend’s wedding, let alone find himself falling in love with her.  Now he has to convince her that the feeling is mutual—and permanent. But it’s more complicated than that. A past Delaney didn’t know she had is catching up with her.  And the only way Mike can ensure their future together is to send her away.

And when blackmail turns to ransom, Mike is the only one who can save her. If only he can get to her in time, he can explain everything…

Romance Book Review: Martha O'Sullivan's Second Chance


Author: Martha O'Sullivan
ISBN: 9781603108331
Genre: Contemporary romance
Publisher: Red Sage

Purchase Link: Red Sage

Lindsay and Brian were once a happy couple, but Brian wanted things to stay them same with them just a couple, no real formal commitment like marriage and children. As an only child Lindsay had dreamed of a big family one day. With Brian's been there, done that attitude, Lindsay decides it is time to move on.

It is 16 months later and Lindsay's life has gone through some changes. Her grandmother has died and there is a new man in her life. He isn't Brian, but he's a good man and he wants the same things in life she does, but when Brian walks back into her life, can she leave everything behind and go back to the way it was.

Brian loved Lindsay, but he didn't realize what he had until she was gone. Now that he's seen her again he wants that back. Can he convince her before she marries someone else?

I don't want to give away the plot of the story, but while I liked the idea of the story and the writing, I do have one pet pieve when it comes to romance stories and a line I hate when it is crossed, and the author crossed it in this book. I know it sounds vague, but you'll just have to read the book and find out for yourself. Not everyone is bothered when the storyline turns in that direction. The rest of the series looks good, so don't miss out on my lackluster review. 

Description:
Everything was fine until Brian Rembrandt came back to town. Lindsay Foster was finally getting her life back together and planning a future with the ever-indulging Paul Webster. How dare Brian think he could waltz back into her life and pick up where they left off!  But he does. And that’s a problem.

Because Brian is used to getting what he wants. So when Lindsay won’t come to him, he goes to her. But little do they know that the torrid night they share puts a lot more than Lindsay’s impending marriage in jeopardy. It alters the course of four lives forever.
Reader Alert! Lindsay’s stable of lovers could be counted on one hand, but Brian was by far the best of the bunch, she reminded herself as his cock met her soaking center. 

Caution! Makeup/reunion sex is white hot, especially when both parties have been celibate for a year! 

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Romance Book Review: Olivia Starke's Project Terminal: Devil's Virus


Author: Olivia Starke
Series Connection: Project Terminal
ISBN: 9781937325923
Genre: Erotic Romance, Paranormal Romance, Zombies
Publisher: Beachwalk Press
Publication Date: October 21, 2013

Purchase Link: Beachwalk Press

Dr. Maxwell Straight accidentally created a virus that is turning people into the undead, ever since she's been trying to correct her mistake. Her twin sister, "Doc", is Max's complete opposite. Doc wants to see the virus continue in order to use it as a weapon. Doc will do anything to see that it continues. Max needs all the help she can get until she finds a cure. Aside from hiding from her sister, she also has to keep away from the undead, which are gaining in numbers fast. Her only hope is Adam Reed, a super soldier who left the project, and Max, years before.

Adam will do anything to see the project defeated, even if it means having to spend time with the woman he loves. Adam left Max years before because she loved the project and her work more than him. He knew it would turn into the disaster it is today, but couldn't convince Max.

Now the two are racing to against time to find a cure. Can Adam keep Max alive long enough to save the world?

Very short story that really needs to be read in order to keep up with the storyline. Really only for people who enjoy a good erotic romance and strong, sexy super soldier zombie hunters, along with brainy, strong heroines. 

Description:
Max must put old heartaches aside and trust Reed to help her while she develops the cure for the devil's virus.

Dr. Maxwell Straight once committed her life to sparing families the pain of losing loved ones in war. While she had the best intentions for her role in Project Terminal, her twin sister, Dr. Marguerite 'Doc' Straight, had different ideas. When Max suggested using a deadly virus to help speed healing to super soldiers injured in the field, her sister turned it into a horrific weapon of mass destruction instead. Now Max must trust a man who broke her heart to keep her safe while she develops a cure for what she started.

Adam 'Preacher' Reed saw what was coming in Project Terminal long before anyone else. When his warnings fell on deaf ears he turned away from the project, and Max, for good. He'd given his body to science, but he wouldn't sell his soul. Now Max needs his help to stop the spread of the undead plague, and he'll do anything to see the project fall. What he doesn't count on are the feelings he still holds for the scientist who chose her twisted work over him. Can he keep Max alive long enough to develop the cure? Or will his worst fears be realized—losing his heart to Max, and their lives to the project?

Content Warning: graphic sex, strong language, and violence

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Romance Book Review: Heather M. Gardner's Maguire's Corner


Author: Heather M. Gardner
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Suspense/ Erotic Romance
Publisher: A Front Porch Romance Book

Purchase Link: Amazon | Smashwords

One minute Maggie was driving home from work in her peaceful town of Maquire's Corner and the next she witnesses a hit and run and becomes the new target of the killer. She always knew their was something about her quiet tenant Mr. Harris, but after he's killed and Maggie becomes a target it is any one's guess what is going in. 

In steps in the annoying police chief. Ever since her father appointed Jack the police chief when she and nearly half the town thought that her brother should have gotten the job, Maggie hasn't like the handsome police chief. Now she has to trust him with her life and finally get to know him a little better.

Jack has had a thing for Maggie ever since he first met her, but she was off limits, especially since she didn't like him very much. Now he'll do anything in his power to keep Maggie and the rest of the town safe from a mob killer. Can Jack win over Maggie's trust and keep her safe. Even if he does win her heart what will the rest of Maquire's Corner think of their relationship.

Good suspense novel with a lot of romance and surprisingly sexy bedroom scenes. Not that I was surprised that the author wrote good sex scenes. The book was well written with a good story, it was just that they came out of the blue and added a little erotic to to small town feel of the book.

Description:
Coffee shop owner Maggie Maguire doesn’t trust the new police chief her father hired to protect Maguire’s Corner. He’s a stranger, cold, bossy and annoyingly handsome. But, Maggie’s witnessed a serious crime and now someone’s trying to kill her. The man that aggravates her most might be the only one that can help her.

Police Chief Jack Munro likes his new job and his new town, and unfortunately he also likes the stubborn but beautiful town sweetheart. His self-imposed hands-off Maggie policy is about to be put to the ultimate test when he must keep her close to protect her while he tracks down a ruthless killer.

Determined to ignore Jack’s charms, Maggie attempts to help him unravel the mystery but when their lives hang in the balance she must decide how much she’s willing to risk to save the man she suddenly can’t resist.

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Romance Book Review: Sugar Jamison's Dangerous Curves Ahead


Author: Sugar Jamison 
Series Connection: A Perfect Fit Novel
ISBN: 978-1250032973
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble |


Ellis is starting a whole new life, she has dumped her old boyfriend, decided she didn't want to be a lawyer after all and opened a new dress shop that caters to large sized woman like herself. While in her hometown coffee shop she runs into a former crush that she wound up catching in an awkward situation with her sister.

At first Mike doesn't remember who Ellis is, but is intrigued by her and decides to take a chance on dating her for a good time only of course, but one date turns to the next and soon Ellis is getting under his skin. 

With both Ellis and Mike dealing with their own issues of why not to get into a relationship, she the story takes many twists and turns while the two find their way to their chance of  happy ever after. 

Ellis has many quirks but she know exactly who she is. Ellis' character is strong and witty and holds her own well. Mike is a hero all on his own. While in the past Ellis would never be his type,  she draws him in with her sharp wit and personality as well as her good looks, no matter that she has a little more padding than his past girlfriends. 

Definitely one of the better books I've read this year. 

Description:
Ellis Garrett is dumping her critical boyfriend, opening a plus-size clothing store, and starting a blog—all to spread the word that fashion shouldn’t require a size-two body, and happiness should allow for the occasional cupcake. Or two. But is indulging fantasies about her sister’s long-ago ex, the still-hunky Michael Edwards, biting off more than she can chew?

Mike must be losing his detective’s touch. He doesn’t recognize Ellis when he bumps into her at Size Me Up, and he certainly doesn’t remember his ex-girlfriend’s outspoken sister being so irresistible. Her curves are indeed dangerous—and so is her wit. Could it be that Ellis is his Perfect Fit? One thing’s for sure: Mike will make it his sworn duty to find out…

Monday, October 7, 2013

Romance Book Review: Marie Sexton's Never A Hero


Author: Marie Sexton
Series Connection: Tucker Springs
ISBN: 978-1-937551-94-0
Print ISBN: 978-1-937551-95-7
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, Male-Male Romance, LBGT Romance
Publisher: Riptide Publishing

Purchase Link: Riptide | Amazon

When the new neighbor moves in downstairs, Owen's life completely changes. For some time Owen has made his life by keeping to himself. Slowly staying in his apartment so he wouldn't have to deal with the embarrassment of his handicap had taken over his life. When he meets Nick and Nick's sister June he realizes that that what he's done with his life. 

As time goes by and spends more time with Nick and June, Owen begins to gain confidence, however things aren't as easy going in Nick's life and he makes it seem and soon not only does Owen have to deal with his own shortcomings in starting a relationship with Nick as he does his own. 

I don't want to give too much of the story away. Reading the book, you get a real feel of who these two men are. You can see that they need each other. Dealing with have only one arm, a lot of Owen's personality is brought out, especially since the story is written in the first person from Owen's point of view. It makes it harder, however, to really deal head on with where Nick is coming from, although you do see a lot of his emotions coming through.

If I could change anything in this story it would be for it to be in third person and pull in a share of thoughts to understand the characters better. 

Description:
Everyone deserves a hero.

Owen Meade is desperately in need of a hero. Raised by a mother who made him ashamed of his stutter, his sexual orientation, and his congenitally amputated arm, Owen lives like a hermit in his Tucker Springs apartment. But then hunky veterinarian Nick Reynolds moves in downstairs.

Nick is sexy and confident, and makes Owen comfortable with himself in a way nobody ever has. He also introduces Owen to his firecracker of a little sister, who was born with a similar congenital amputation but never let it stand in her way. When she signs the two of them up for piano lessons—and insists that they play together in a recital—Owen can’t find a way to say no. Especially since it gives him a good excuse to spend more time with Nick.

Owen knows he’s falling hard for his neighbor, but every time he gets close, Nick inexplicably pulls away. Battling his mother’s scorn and Nick’s secrets, Owen soon realizes that instead of waiting for a hero, it’s time to be one—for himself and for Nick.


Sunday, October 6, 2013

Romance Book Review: Robyn Carr's The Hero


Author: Robyn Carr
Series Connection: Thunder Point
ISBN: 978-0778314592
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Mira Books

Purchase Link: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iTunes

Alone with her three year old daughter and on the run from a cult Devon is picked up along the highway by the stranger who is willing to help her get back on her feet. She only intends to get as far away as possible so that she can get her child to safety, but the kindness of the people from Thunder Point pull her in and she find the life she has always wanted, but how long can she hide before the caught and brought back to the leader of the cult. 

Spencer moved to Thunder Point to begin again after his wife lost her long battle with cancer. He thought the letting his step son be near the man who fathered him would not help them both heal. With a new job ahead of him and taking care of his child, Spencer wasn't really looking for a new relationship with a woman. 

There is just something about Devon that Spencer just can't forget and he decides she's worth a chance, but Spencer has demons of his own.

Robyn Carr has put together an interesting series on the day to day lives of the residents of Thunder Point, Oregon. Each book enthralls the readers into the working of the town and the local residents. The books are told from multiple points of view, not just the hero and the heroine, that might confuse some that aren't used to the style of writing. It also doesn't give the new lovers time to really explore their love through the pages of their story, however it adds to the time the relationship is suppose to develop. 

Both Spencer and Devon come to life in the story that they are able to stand out in the crowd. 

Description:
In a moment of desperation, Devon McAllister took her daughter and fled a place where they should have been safe and secure. She has no idea what is around the next bend, but she is pretty certain it can’t be worse than what they’ve left behind. Her plan is to escape to somewhere she can be invisible. Instead, an unexpected offer of assistance leads her to Thunder Point, a tiny Oregon town with a willingness to help someone in need.

As the widowed father of a vulnerable young boy, Spencer Lawson knows something about needing friendship. But he’s not looking for anything else. Instead, he’s thrown his energy into his new role as Thunder Point’s high school football coach. Tough and demanding to his team, off the field he’s gentle and kind...just the kind of man who could heal Devon’s wounded heart.

Devon thought she wanted to hide from the world. But in THUNDER POINT, you find bravery where you least expect it...and sometimes, you find a hero.

Friday, October 4, 2013

Romance Book Review: Stephanie Beck's Mary's Men


Author: Stephanie Beck
Series Connection: Poppy's Passion
ISBN: 9781937325909
Genre(s): Erotic Romance/Ménage
Publisher: Beachwalk Press
Publication Date: Oct. 21, 2013

Purchase Link: Beachwalk Press

Last year Stephanie Beck introduced Poppy and her three men, Michael, Trevor and Cody but before the foursome got together, there was Mary, Duane, Thomas and Paul. In the late 60s twins Thomas and Paul and their cousin Duane made a pack to find one woman that the three of them could love and protect. 

In their youth the three cousins learned the hard way how hard it was to love someone and keep them happy. Their solution was to tag team each other and make the best life they could for one woman between them. 

That was where Mary came in. Mary and Thomas meet while Thomas is away at law school. Thomas falls in love with Mary and introduces her to Paul and through letters Paul let's Mary get to know him. Duane is away at war getting the GI Bill to become a doctor. He's on his way home soon and Mary is writing to him, unknown to Mary about what the three have planned. 

When they finally do get around to telling Mary exactly what they want, Mary will have to make the decision of what she's going to do...could she have the love she's been looking for times three or will she let the three men go to find someone else who can handle the pressure of the relationship they are looking for. 

One of the best parts of this book is the realism behind the reactions of people of the time, probably even in today's world, about the relationship between Mary and her men. While Mary is a strong character, as she would need to be if she was going to make her relationship of 37 years into the future to work. 

As usual with Stephanie Beck's work the next best part of the book are the hot love scenes 

Description: 
Three husbands—a dream come true or a pipe dream destined to break them all?
Mary Duncan likes to think she's as open as any modern 1960's woman, but when her boyfriend presents his vision of "family" she finds herself between twin brothers and a cousin—all willing to love her if she'll have them…together.

Loving Thomas and Paul comes easily, the sexy twins everything she'd never hoped to dream. If not for her new mother-in-law, the gossiping townsfolk, and the wall of silence from her own family, Mary would be in Montana heaven. Just as the young group finally start to find their footing with the new relationship, Duane Paraby returns from Vietnam, reluctant to join the relationship, but an integral part Mary refuses to give up.

When confrontation explodes around them, threatening to terminate their bonds before they're even set, Paul, Thomas, and Duane will have to prove they have what it takes to be Mary's men.

Content Warning: Explicit sex

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Romance Book Review: Eliza Gayle's Bad Kitty


Author: Eliza Gayle
Series Connection: Southern Shifters
ISBN: N/A
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Shapeshifter, Action/Adventure
Publisher: Gypsy Ink Books

Purchase Link: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Kitty is have a really bad day. She's been kicked out of her clan, lost what was left of her family, and sent to place where she knows no one. She should be safe, but her day keeps getting worse when she is forced to defend herself against a group of she-cats who doesn't believe she has gotten all she deserves after she is sent into exile. She runs off and even though she's poisoned and half dead she somehow makes it into wolf territory. Unfortunately that is like going from the frying pan to the fire and she meets up with a group of male wolves who now think of her as their possession because she's on their land. Hence her really, really bad day. 

Luckily she is rescued just in time by Rafe the future alpha of the wolf pack. He helps her to get better and they both soon realize that they are mates. That should be a good news and a turn around in her life, but there is still the problem with that other wolf who thinks she belongs to him and no matter what she's still "Bad Kitty" and she doesn't want to get in the way of Rafe's future as alpha.

The author says this is a stand alone book and I think it can be read that way, but for me there just wasn't enough explanation as to why she was exiled for something her father did, especially when in the end she saved a child. That didn't seem to make up for much considering no one, especially not even the she-cats seemed to know about it. So maybe it would be best to read the previous books about Kane and Malcolm where she is mentioned in the books. 

Otherwise I loved the book. Kitty has a sharp tongue and whit. She isn't ready to back down to anyone. After all she's been through she needs to be a tough as she is. I'm a little disappointed with the wolves however. Rafe seems to be a great guy, but really just because this hurt girl, obviously on the run for her life, stumbles onto their land she is theirs to do whatever they want to? Really? And that is their law? Well I'll let you decide about that. 


Description:
If you think you’ve lost everything. Think again.Kitty lost her father, her home and her clan. Clinging to what’s left of her pride, she’s forced into the neutral zone, the supposed safe haven for half-breeds and outcasts. An attack forces her to the wrong side of the treaty line and into an even more dangerous situation. Determined to greet death with the last of her dignity, she is suddenly rescued by a tall, gorgeous…wolf???

As the next alpha leader of his pack, Rafe Comyn has more than enough to handle with pack politics and precarious treaties. The last thing he needs is a pissed off feline landing in his lap, especially when her scent triggers his overwhelming drive to mate. While the daughter of a former rival is quite a conquest, she’s both forbidden and dangerous.

But as the heat of desire threatens to consume them, their differences escalate and Rafe must keep his own pack from killing the one woman he can’t live without.

*PLEASE NOTE – While Bad Kitty is a stand alone story, she has made brief but interesting appearances in both Kane and Malcolm.


Romance Book Review: Mima's Alpha Within

Author: Mima
Series Connection: A Bonded Fantasy
ISBN: 9781595784025
Genre: Paranormal, Erotic Romance, Shifter, Werecat, Sci-Fi
Publisher: Liquid Silver

Purchase Link: Amazon

In this world of shifter, magic and shifter, Dar's clan has a problem. Either he finds a way to help them give birth to new kits or his kind will become extinct. After searching for two years he finally finds his answer--Luna.

Luna has lived many lives. She runs from those who call her type of magic dark, but that doesn't stop her from helping as many people as she can achieve their dream to have children. A midwife by trade, she works behind the shadows to help when she can.

When Dar finds her she is about to be caught by those that don't believe in her work. He offers her an alternative--go with him and help his people and be safe or stay and face those that are against her. She senses that no matter what she chooses she doesn't really have a choice at all, so she goes. She quickly learns that Dar's people really need her and helps as best she can.

Dar falls in love with Luna, but ultimately he know that he can't have her. Other clans will want her help once she has finished with his clan and he wants children, while she doesn't. Luna doesn't want to give up that easily can she convince Dar to take a chance?

I was a little disappointed that there wasn't more world building in this story. It sounded like there was room to tell a much broader story. This is a series, this book originally came out in 2008 and starting from the beginning might be wise to piece together the whole story. As usual with Mima's style this book is steaming hot. That alone makes the book worth while to read for those who like erotic romance. There is a little male on male sex scene toward the end of the book, but not as graphic as some.

Description:

Luna was the answer to Dar's prayers. Her fertility skills would save his Clan. That she was his mate was something that only made her claiming that much more perfect. Powerful and beautiful, her body sang for him. But he rushed her. He offered all of himself, baring his soul, and she stood in silence. Unable to comprehend the rejection, everything fell apart. 

Dar accepted Luna's magic, even knowing her past actions damned her as darkmage. He could take her from calm to orgasm with a twist of his bossy fingers. She trusted him, a leader of powerful warriors. But he rushed her. A man like him couldn't comprehend how very alone she'd been, for so very long. He offered her something so precious and rare, she didn't recognize it for what it was until it was too late. 

They're two wounded souls, but perfect for each other. One so tired of carrying the burden of a dying Clan. One so tired of hiding and running. Now they have to face the pain neither meant to deal to the other. Shame and guilt are heavy bedfellows. Enemies within the Clan and without gather to nip at them. Dar's Snowcat only understands that their mate is unclaimed. Somehow, Luna has to overcome her fear of her man's other nature. Because if she's going to take her place at his side, she has to master the Alpha Within.