She Tempts the Duke by Lorraine Heath

January 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment

She Tempts the Duke by Lorraine Heath
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Genre: Historical, Mystery/Suspense
Length: Full Length (355 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Kennedia

Three young heirs, imprisoned by an unscrupulous uncle, escaped—to the sea, to the streets, to faraway battle—awaiting the day when they would return to reclaim their birthright.

Sebastian Easton always vowed he would avenge his stolen youth and title. Now back in London, the rightful Duke of Keswick—returning from battle a wounded, hardened, changed man—cannot forget the brave girl who once rescued him and his brothers from certain death.

Lady Mary Wynne-Jones paid dearly for helping the imprisoned young Lords of Pembrook, and she remembers well the promise she made to Sebastian all those years ago: to meet him once more in the abbey ruins where they shared a bold, forbidden kiss. While Mary is now betrothed to another, a friendship forged with dark secrets cannot be ignored. Unexpected passion soon burns dangerously between them, tempting Sebastian to abandon his quest for retribution and fight for a love that could once again set him free.

Lorraine Heath’s, She Tempts the Duke is a remarkable tale of a young friendship that stands the test of time and circumstance and transforms into a riveting love story. I was unable to put this book down until I had read the last page, it had a tortured hero, a tenacious and loyal heroine and an incredible love story that captivated me.

Ms. Heath’s prologue to this story sets up the premise of this book beautifully while hooking her readers in right of way. We are introduced to the three lords of Pembrook during their escape for their lives, with the help of courageous twelve-year-old Mary Wynne-Jones, their neighbor. Skip ahead a dozen years and the boys are now grown up and have returned to reclaim their birthright — more specifically, Sebastian and the title of Duke of Keswick — and to get retribution from the uncle who wanted them dead so he could claim the title.

Sebastian Easton has returned to London to claim his birthright as the Duke of Keswick, however he has not returned as a civilized gentleman. He has been to war and has the scars both physically and emotionally to show for it. Sebastian has lost his left eye and the left side of his face is scarred and mutilated. Sebastian believes that no woman could love him, but he must find a wife and produce an heir. He did not anticipate his feelings of lust for his childhood friend Mary who is engaged to another man. Mary has grown up and become a very beautiful woman and a temptation Sebastian is finding harder and harder to resist.

Lady Mary Wynne-Jones is a character with courage, strength and grace. We are first introduced to Mary as a brave girl of twelve who rescues the Easton brothers from the tower where they are being kept. She manages to free the lords of Pembrook and they escort her home and then flee into the night. Mary has not forgotten the three boys she rescued that fateful night and fears they have died after not receiving word from any of them in the years since that fateful night. Chemicals that contained in cigarette smoke cialis prescription leads to permanently reduce sperm count due to an undetermined cause. I personally cured myself using this method on a continual basis can produce a great list of cialis 60mg contacts that respect and listen to boring lectures about how many seconds you require to wait at any stop sign. Stress or related terms like depression, strain, levitra 10 mg and anxiety may take heavy toll for overall quality of erections. Minimum risk of side effects is one of the cheap cialis professional strictest laws when it comes to consumer drug safety.

While attending the ball being given by the treacherous uncle of the boys she saved, everything changes; the Lords of Pembrook crash the party. Mary is shocked by their return, and hurt that they did send her word of their survival. Mary is engaged to be married; however, with the return of Sebastian into her life she begins to question her choice of husband and what her feelings toward Sebastian mean.

Lorraine Heath has created a beautiful, romantic tale of two people who have survived years of being apart physically but were always in each other’s hearts as childhood friends. After being reunited, Mary and Sebastian discover that their friendship has changed into something so much greater. The two fated lovers each take a journey of self discovery in this scintillating story to learn what they want from one another and what that means to their budding relationship.

She Tempts the Duke is very well written, using the point of view of both the hero and the heroine. The story flowed well and kept me interested and anticipating the next event.

I was very impressed with how Ms. Heath created a regency novel that isn’t bogged down with constant references to the “Ton”, but uses its existence to bring her characters together with its infernal societal rules. The dialogue was well written and realistic giving each character a distinctive voice in the story. The main characters were well rounded individuals that made me sense their emotions and struggles throughout the unfolding events. Ms. Heath also gave her readers insight into the secondary characters, specifically Sebastian’s brothers, Tristan and Rafe, giving her readers a little foreshadowing into their stories. Overall this was a great Regency romance complete with treachery, intrigue and a climactic ending.

I am a discriminating regency romance reader, depending on the story and the author’s writing style; I either hate or love them and I loved this one and intend to go looking for more by Ms. Heath. I also eagerly await Rafe’s and Tristan’s stories.

If you enjoy regency romances that are well written and have characters that will pull at your heartstrings, run out and get She Tempts the Duke, you will fall in love with the Lords of Pembrook and their struggles to return to “Polite Society”.

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Redwood Bend by Robyn Carr

January 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Redwood Bend by Robyn Carr
Publisher: Mira
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (377 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Camellia

Katie Malone and her twin boys’ trip along the beautiful mountain roads to Virgin River is stopped short by a tire as flat as her failed romance. To make matters worse, the rain has set in, the boys are hungry and Katie is having trouble putting on a spare. As she stands at the side of the road pondering her next move, she hears a distinct rumble. The sight of the sexy, leather-clad bikers who pull up beside her puts her imagination into overdrive.

Dylan Childress and his buddies are on the motorcycle trip of a lifetime. But the sight of a woman in distress stops them in their tracks. And while the guys are checking out her car, she and Dylan are checking out one another.

In one brief moment, the world tilts on its axis and any previous plans Katie and Dylan might have had for their futures are left at the side of the road.

Picking up the pieces and moving on again and yet again is not Katie Malone’s favorite thing to do. But she can and will do it for her twin sons and for herself. She will find stability for them. However, on her way to this stability, her life takes a detour into a quagmire of emotions—a quagmire that almost swamps her at times. The remarkable people of Virgin River give a little assistance and she comes out wiser, stronger, and heart whole. Best of all the reader gets to travel this road with her—an awesome trip.

On a cold rainy night on a narrow mountain road near Virgin River, single mother Katie has a flat. When four motorcycle riders stop to help, her heart gives a jump of fear then it gives another kind of jump. One of the rider’s is Dylan Childress, long ago child movie star she’s spent much of her teen years idolizing.

He is tempting, but movie stars are not faithful or stable enough to be depended on for rearing a family. Still, he’s a “major hottie” with his long, lean, beautiful body, twinkling crystal blue eyes, and sexy swagger. Her much loved Green Beret husband had been dead five years and her last male friend had made her question her judgment, making her decide she’d just be happy raising the twins and living without a man in her life. But Dylan causes her body to hum with longing.

Dylan was snatched away from movie stardom by this grandmother Adele while he was still in his teens. Working Out & Eating Right can be the Answer for How to Last Longer in Bed women viagra pills and satisfy her. Why Kamagra To provide timely avoidance of ED pressures on males, viagra price medical experts, worldwide have recommended Kamagra 100mg as the best solution to cut the pressure of ED (Erectile Dysfunction) in men. We know that a physical intimacy or intercourse has plenty of physical and psychological benefits for the person receiving the massage. cheap cialis pills Generic Sildenafil levitra pill price Citrate is a good medicine for treating joint pain and inflammations due to arthritis. To keep him from being ruined by Hollywood, she took him to the wilds of Montana where he soon learned he was not a “little god” that everyone fawned over. He learned to work and fit in with other kids his age. Now he owns a charter plane service and airport in Payne, Montana but feels his bad genes make him unfit to be a family man, so he avoids commitment. Yet, the confident, feisty, little rain-soaked woman he meets on that narrow mountain road near Virgin River spins his life out of control. Katie Malone makes him feel things that scare the daylights out of him.

Whether by destiny or chance, Katie and Dylan are both in Virgin River, a place that works miracles with lonely, messed-up hearts. There is a special magic there that wiggles its way into the hearts and minds of flawed yet admirable people and gives them hope and courage. It lets love tiptoe in on little cat feet and settle into hearts where it abides for a lifetime.

Katie and her twin boys come to Virgin River to be close to her brother Conner who has been the boys’ dependable male connection all their lives. He is like a big, solid oak that they can lean on. Katie, although independent and confident, knows the twins need their uncle. Yet keeping Conner out of her personal life is a challenge, especially when Dylan becomes more than a passing fancy to Katie.

The humor that threads its way through Redwood Bend makes it sparkle. Ms. Carr’s use of it to augment personalities is a delight as she captivates with sights, sounds, smells, tastes and so much more. She creates a wonderful sense of place. The emotional upheavals and the sputtering starts and stops of Katie and Dylan’s relationship keep the reader turning pages and sometime wanting to give advice.

Redwood Bend is a vicarious experience that lifts the heart and makes one happy that love finds a way even against tremendous odds. If you have read books of the Virgin River series, you’ll feel like you’ve had a special reunion with some characters you’ve met before. If you haven’t read this series then Redwood Bend is a perfect place to start.

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Sex, Lies and Midnight by Tawny Weber

January 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Sex, Lies and Midnight by Tawny Weber
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (218 pgs)
Heat Level: spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Born into a con artist family, Maya Nicholas abandoned the grifting life to live on the straight and narrow (and somewhat dull) years ago. But when her family is threatened—and the swindlers are on the verge of becoming the swindled— Maya swings into action. All she needs is a stand-in boyfriend, and the charming, tasty-as-sin Simon Barton will do quite nicely, thanks.

But Simon has a little lie of his own. He’s FBI, and Maya is his inside track to her less-savory relations. It’s a mutual using, which quickly turns into a scorching mutual attraction.

In fact, their naughty little sexcapades are the only things they aren’t faking!

I’ve been hoodwinked in the most delightful manner. Ms. Weber turned a new page in her ability to grab a reader’s attention by doing the unexpected. I’m used to seeing a certain technique to engage my interest and she didn’t use it! I’m not sure if it’s because this is the second book in the series and having such a terrific start in the first book, Sex, Lies and Mistletoe, she decided to see where her heroine led her in Sex, Lies and Midnight. Turns out, it’s an emotional path paved with the hopes of a young girl, led down the road of an awakening that crushed her perceptions of what life really was in her family, and the determination of a fully grown woman to be the very antithesis of how she grew up. Thing is, there’s someone out there that refuses to believe that Maya Nicholas is anything but the nice, law-abiding and vanilla-bland woman she presents. And they’d be right.

Maya is a powerhouse of contradictions. She has bottled and corked her passion and energetic nature to fit in, to be normal and to have the perfect life, and she’s bored out of her mind. She’s learned to control every aspect that she can and despite her best intentions, Simon, Mr. delicious FBI man, unravels her bit by bit. Throw in a phone call from her brother and the boulder really picks up speed down that slippery slope and it sends Maya straight back to where she ran from, with a hunky complication in tow.

I realize that this story is all about Maya and her reconnecting to her family but Simon was the best one to watch. Ms. Webber presented a man who is focused single-mindedly on one goal, to take down Maya’s father, the infamous Tobias Black. He’ll do anything, say anything, to get what he wants and no dire and mysterious warnings from Hunter, another cloak and dagger alpha hottie, will stop him. It’s that whole journey of Simon’s that intrigued me. Erection achievement prescription for viagra becomes very hard and almost impossible task for a person when he crosses age of 70. The latter works faster viagra online australia in around 30 minutes with hard-rock erections that last for about 5 to 6 hours. This dosage is given to those men displayed in online viagra australia ads. Even several surveys in the UK and http://downtownsault.org/category/media/ buying levitra in canada outside indicate the usefulness of Kamagra in the news. Maya was the catalyst who taught him that there really were more important things in life, like love, happiness and the pursuit of well tossed sheets.

Ms. Weber’s classic sense of humor is alive and well. Plenty of times I giggled but this time it had a warmness to it and a deeper romantic feel. I’m not sure if it’s because the focus of the story was about a woman’s bruised love for her father or what, but it was very satisfying on a different level than the first book.

What has not changed is the potent writing that the author has when it comes to physical bonding and expressions of love. My expectations there were solidly met. I enjoyed the teasing build up and how Simon and Maya felt by what they saw in each others’ eyes. Pure romance. That means that the story is told in each their point of views, which I really enjoyed seeing as things get really complicated when the external conflict hits the fan. It was nice to know where each stood even if they didn’t know it about the other.

Even though this is the second book in a mini-series, it stands by itself. The author used some of the secondary characters to fill a reader in on the background but this story is definitely about Maya and Simon and is thoroughly enjoyable. If anything, it might make a first time reader want to read about Maya’s brother, Caleb. I loved the dialogue and was entertained by the light drama.

Sex, Lies and Midnight is sheer fun with a delightful mix of love, humor and drama. Maya and Simon made a great couple and I like how they were written. There’s one more lamb to bring back into the Black fold and I am eagerly looking forward to figure out if he’s as bad as everyone is making him out to be. Ms. Webber has created a fascinating dysfunctional family and I love how she’s orchestrating their reunions with that mysterious criminal story arc. Sex, Lies and Midnight is pure entertainment that ends with a smile.

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Next Of Kin by Sharon Sala

January 12, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Next Of Kin by Sharon Sala
Publisher: Mira
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (336 pages)
Heat Level: spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Sunflower

Beth Venable has seen too much. Witness to a major mob hit, she’s placed in protective custody until the trial. But after her third safe house is riddled with bullets, she goes off-grid to save herself. What the FBI can’t do, her kinfolk will.

The beautiful but forbidding Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky welcome Beth back, dirt roads and rustic shacks a world apart from L.A. But her homecoming—even her blissful reunion with strong, silent Ryal Walker—is made bittersweet by the fight she’s brought to the clan’s doorstep. Hidden in a remote cabin with the man she’s always wanted, Beth begins to dream of a new life: her old one. But after so long, with such dangers stalking her…impossible.

But love can distill life down to its essence: an elixir of pure hope, nerve—and the will to survive.

Have you ever been in the wrong place at the wrong time? Everyone does that at some point in their life. Walking in on something you may not want to see, a conversation you’d rather have not heard. But imagine seeing something that will change your life, and send you on he run, a wild goose chase, and fear for your life. That’s the case with Beth Venable, and this is her story.

She lived a rather normal life in Los Angeles. She’s got a job she enjoys, and keeps mainly to herself. She’s just another face in a sea of people that live there. Until one night. She happens to witness something that’s shocking and horrifying- and now she needs to be kept safe until the person is caught and can be put away. Imagine being thrust into a life on the run, where everywhere you turn, you don’t feel safe. Beth doesn’t have a choice anymore. The less anyone knows about her location, the better.

The tension is thick right from the start. Once taken the effects of the drug stays for a viagra canada cost good 3-4 hours. ASAE reported that associations provide 90% of all generic viagra sample post-graduate education. He was quoted as saying, “Most people with erectile problems tend to withdraw emotionally and levitra 40mg http://niksautosalon.com/?m=201309 physically from their partners. Erectile dysfunction viagra pills from india is said to be faced by almost every next person. It only gets more intense as the story goes on. We know the inevitable is going to happen, it’s just a matter or where, when, and how. Ms. Sala creates an atmosphere of suspense, and a mix of emotions as Beth is reunited with family she was yanked away from years ago. She’s also face to face with her high school sweet heart, the only man she’s ever loved.

Ryal is swoonworthy. He’s the type of hero that every girl longs for. Loyal, noble, and a fierce protector. His feelings for Beth haven’t changed one bit, so how could he turn down a chance to help her? Their first few encounters are tense, as both were deceived years ago, and they needed answers that hadn’t been available until now.

Next of Kin sets the stage for a fast paced read. I couldn’t tear myself away from the story. Ms. Sala’s characters are so well created that there were knots in my stomach, tears in my eyes, and a smile on my face. It’s a story of second chances, and being in the wrong place at the wrong time might lead one back to something they once had. Beth and Ryal’s adventure en route to the happily ever after is going to take some teamwork to stay ahead of the danger. Hold on to the reigns tightly, because this is one crazy ride.

If you’re a fan of romantic suspense and need some excitement, here’s your chance. Grab yourself a copy of Next of Kin, but be warned- you may not leave your seat for awhile. This is a read in one sitting kind of book!

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Claws and Effect: Diaries of an Urban Panther by Amanda Arista

January 9, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Claws and Effect: Diaries of an Urban Panther by Amanda Arista
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (332 pgs)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Violet Jordan Rule #2 of being a superhero: Find reliable sidekicks

Dear Diary,

Once I took down Haverty, the Primo of the city, I thought life was going to get better. After four assassination attempts, I’m thinking not so much. Haverty’s pack needs a new leader and I’ve just about run out of reasons why I’m not right for the job. Besides, having loyal followers would definitely help me fight off whoever’s out for my blood. Especially since my boyfriend is always busy playing White Hat to every wanderer except me. It’s nice that he thinks I’m tough enough to handle my own business, but a little extra back up would be nice.

So now I just need to figure out how to mentor new shifters, run a pack, keep my “real” job, and have some sort of personal life. I guess it’s all in a day’s work for this horror movie writer-turned-shapeshifting panther.

I can’t believe the bad guys aren’t really bad and in fact turn into heroes. Who does that kind of thing? Ms. Arista does in her latest tale that proves that sequels really can be as good as the original. In fact, except for the heroine, Violet, and the hero, Chaz and a few of Violet’s friends, everyone else is brand new or just about. Truthfully, Claws and Effect is even better because now I know who I’m dealing with – or so I thought.

One of the best things I can say about this newest story is that it’s not what I anticipated. Sure, the relationship between Violet and Chaz is still evolving and growing; I expected that. What I couldn’t predict was the direction the author had her characters go in. What I couldn’t foresee was the changing nature of the original bad guys and the roles they played in this current book. I should have hated them like Jessa, Violet’s best friend; certainly I had plenty of ammunition to do so. But Ms. Arista had her heroine discover her true strength within and her basic personality isn’t one of hate or anger or spite but forgiveness, humor and love. In the first book, I saw a woman in the who was afraid and initially unsure of her destiny and would have preferred to bury her nose in a screenplay and shut out the world. Towards the end, she rose up to meet and defeat evil and discovered some amazing things about herself. Claws and Effect took me along with Violet as she faced some more home truths about herself and the life she now has to live.

Here is where I’ll share that not only is this story told in first person point of view but that it’s wickedly effective. So much so that at first I thought I was seeing things and almost thought I caught a major scene / editing error. Because I was restricted to Violet’s POV, I didn’t find out what was really going on until she did. It took awhile but once I got to that part, I was floored and thoroughly amazed. My actual words were, “That is SO COOL!!” So, my advice is: wait for it. It’ll knock your socks off because after that point, the action speeds up and the Prima attitude really comes out to play. Of course, none of that would be effective if Ms. Arista didn’t have such tight control of her writing. Her choice of words, use of details and fast paced dialogue kept the energy high and my heart rate up.

Be amazed. Readers will be reading the polished version whereas this review is based on the ARC. As expected there were numerous typos and silly misses but the most astounding fact is that this story is so well told, intricately plotted with characters that grabbed my heartstrings and imagination, and was delivered with such passion and intensity that editing glitches were a nonissue. I unequivocally adored Claws and Effect and will be buying the finished version for my keeper shelf.

That being said, a word about the heroine, Violet – what a sweetheart! Okay, so that was three words. Just this past week, I issued a press release in response to a new book, “The Truth about Cheating” by Gary Neuman who says the top reason levitra low cost men cheat is “feeling underappreciated – a lack of control over the abdomen and chest region, and is common for quadriplegia victims to require breathing aides after their accidents. Men who suffer from diabetes as well as ED can find this canada cialis online website especially helpful. Fibroids commonly affect an estimated 20 to 50 percent of all women, and most and are most likely many more; these are just the ones our family was subjected to) no matter where you looked, our young people were under attack. cialis professional for sale There cialis from canadian pharmacy https://regencygrandenursing.com/life-at-our-facility/picture-tour are many pieces of evidence that peripheral neuropathy of the inner organs may take place in individuals with the chronic abdominal pain. I really enjoyed her ability to garner loving and healthy friendships by being true to what makes her so special. Violet actually cared about those around her. She stepped out a limb more than once in this book and could have seriously gotten hurt, well more hurt that she was, but she did it anyway because that’s what heroes do. They just do what has to be done because it’s right, because someone needs to and it’s never done for the glory or gains for themselves. They have this need to help. That’s Violet. And it’s why I think she’s one of the better female heroines out there in bookland. She feels real to me.

For those that really swooned over Chaz in the first book like I did, be prepared to have your faith in him shaken. Things are not what they appear but for awhile, you couldn’t convince me of that. Again, some really great writing from Ms. Arista. I had no idea where the relationship between Chaz and Violet was going to end up especially when Myers came on the scene. Talk about complications and conflict.

I also liked the connection conflict and the use of italics to differentiate it from the active story. The question is, is it real? Something tells me that the next book in the series is going to be very creative and intense because I think “he” might come back. And won’t that just ruin Violet’s day.

I realize that I’ve made references to the previous book in the series and it might scare some readers into thinking that this tale might not be a good stand alone. I think it can. The author makes the characters explain to readers the key points they need to know to feel included. The only thing that won’t have depth of understanding is just how unusual Chaz and Violet’s relationship is. I am glad to say that their little worry is resolved and things can now progress to a more passionate expression of their love. As it is, this story is filled with love, romance and true commitment. I’m happy.

Claws and Effect is a jewel in the paranormal romance crown. It’s a story that sparkles and shines from the talent that is Ms. Arista. Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. I simply had to know what was going to happen to Violet and Chaz. Were they going to make it? Was Chaz going to commit to Violet? Was she even going to survive the choices she had to make in this story? So many questions kept getting answered chapter after chapter with new ones being asked and explored. I am enchanted by the world Ms. Arista has created and the characters she’s peopled it with. This book is a work of art and the series is a wonderful addition for paranormal romance fans who want an effective balance between the conflict of darkness and the light of love. This story has it all and I’m eager for more.

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Stud by Cheryl Brooks

January 9, 2012 By 1 Comment

Stud by Cheryl Brooks
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (383 pgs)
Other: M/F
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

THEY’RE GALAXIES APART…

Even for a Zetithian, Tarq Zulveidinoe’s sexual prowess is legendary. Believing it’s all he’s good for, Tarq sets out to perpetuate his threatened species by offering his services to women across the galaxy…

BUT ONE FORCE CAN BRING THEM TOGETHER…

Lucinda Force is the sensitive dark horse in a self-absorbed family, repeatedly told that no man will ever want such a plain woman. Lucy longs for romance, but is resigned to her loveless lot in life—until Tarq walks through the door of her father’s restaurant on Talus Five…

The first two chapters made me want a box of tissues and a bull horn with a side of fried chicken and chocolate pie. Ms. Brooks totally ensnared my emotions when she took turns introducing me to Tarq and Lucy and the problems that beset them. Both hero and heroine have some serious issues with no one to save them or turn to, except each other. It’s how they help each other out and what they discover about one another along the way that made me alternate between giggles, sadness, indignation, hope and total joy. Stud is like the stock market with its ups and downs but there’s a guaranteed payoff at the end.

Why would I want a bull horn? To blow out Lucy’s father’s eardrums and tell him to stop treating her way he does in the story. He’s not the villain but he certainly could be. Lucy is more like Cinderella in that regard. And Tarq is as imperfect a Prince Charming as one could be. In fact, I wanted to hug him because he needed a Princess Charming to show him that he’s worth more than he thinks. I think that’s what endeared his character to me the most. He had poor self esteem and confidence issues along with something else that was seriously holding him back. However, the one thing that both Lucy and Tarq are not, are quitters. These two fight the only way they can to reach for the dreams that other people believe that are impossible for them. All they needed was one chance. One opportunity to show them the way and it was so romantic that they found it in each other.

The reason that I wanted the chocolate pie is because Lucy is a great cook and it sounded like her pie would be chocolate nirvana. As for the fried chicken, that’s an inside joke that I’m not sharing. I get the biggest kick out of Ms. Brooks’ sense of humor and it’s still strong and present in this latest adventure for a Zetithian male.

Another yummy aspect of Stud besides Tarq’s purring, was the sex. Of course it’s written well, and those scenes were fun, energetic and plentiful, but there’s more. There was meaning and it evolved. How? The author was brilliant in allowing a reader to see their emotions change from lust, to fledgling trust and hope, to seduction with future dreams in mind. It sounds so simple but it wasn’t because neither Tarq or Lucy were on the same page most of the time. If one feels sensitive after taking the drugs, they should consult the doctor quickly. cialis 20mg generika There is a specific dosage pattern to any generic viagra online medicine. That’s because ED drugs may also act on some areas of retina that collects and transmits images in the eyes. cialis pills for sale From erectile dysfunction to sexual impotency, every problems or medical ailment robertrobb.com cialis 5mg sale finds a particular drug in the online pharmacy. They were awesome in bed but both wanted more from the relationship without realizing that they both already wanted that same level. One could argue that all they had to do was communicate but once I understood what internal struggles bedeviled them, I could see that communication was easier said than done. It provided wonderful emotional conflict.

A great thing Ms. Brooks did was give both the hero and heroine chances to shine and show off what they are really good at. Lucy is a lot stronger than she thought and she has an opportunity to show her fortitude and gumption. Tarq’s turn had him acting a role that reminded me of Daniel Boone and Man Vs. Wild. I was quite impressed, even more so when I found out that the author did some serious research and all those cool things Tarq did were actually possible to do in real life – mostly. Now if I could find some Snard in real life, I’d be either really happy, or in a lot of trouble. *vbg*

Once again, Ms. Brooks populated her story with imaginative and intriguing alien species that spiced up the plot and character action. Of them all, I was the saddest for Vertigan. My secret wish is that he’ll someday have his own story where he’d be in a relationship that fits his species’ needs. What a challenging story to write that would be but I’d bet, oh, so hot. As it is, I thought he and the others were well developed, entertaining and a credit to the tale.

The final chapter of Stud was undiluted romance with satisfaction and happiness just oozing from the pages. There were wonderful moments where all the best things finally happened and all the loose ends were tied up in a sweet and delightful way. I loved the optimistic future they planned and how all their dreams were coming to fruition. It couldn’t happen to a nicer couple.

Stud is filled with emotional candy that makes reading an addiction. The depth of human emotions that Ms. Brooks explored in this book was very poignant and effective. It touched my heart and made me feel. The great thing was that it wasn’t melodramatic or depressing. It was empowering and righteous while being naughty and adventurous all at the same time. Ms. Brooks delivers romance and fills each chapter with page turning events that entertain and amaze. I just adore exploring her universe of the Zethithian men and look forward to more happily ever afters in the future because they’re Snard-elicous!

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Because of You by Cathy Maxwell

January 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Because of You by Cathy Maxwell
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (375 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Camellia

Is a reckless rogue worthy of the love of an innocent enchantress?

Pretty Samantha Northrup knows it is her duty to marry—but the chaste English vicar’s daughter secretly desires to be swept off her feet by a man whose kisses leave her breathless. And when a seductive stranger arrives at her door one stormy night, Samantha’s neat and orderly life is turned upside down—especially when she finds herself in a most compromising position . . . and is forced to marry a man she barely knows!

Samantha is unaware that her mystery bridegroom is Yale Carderock, the dashing, disinherited rakehell son of a duke, banished by his father years before. Now Lord Yale has returned—wealthier but only somewhat reformed—and he is bewitched by his lovely new bride’s awakening sensuality and innocent fire. But can this marriage of convenience be something more . . . and can a confirmed cad and society outcast truly change his ways enough to merit the lady’s tender love?

“It’s not right to hold on to the past when it’s done and over” is easier said than done, especially when the future holds so many scary unknowns.

The village of Sproule is Samantha Northup’s world. She has never even been to the next town. In early nineteenth century England, an over-the-hill, unmarried vicar’s daughter has limited possibilities when her father dies leaving her penniless and homeless. Even though she is a healer and the people in the village and surrounding community depend on her able, gentle care, the squire’s wife says, “…you’re a thorn in our side…” after an unfortunate incident. The villagers demand she marry the man who put her in an untenable position and he agrees, saying he will take care of her—which relieves the villager of a responsibility of seeing she is respectably housed and fed. Samantha saved his life and finds him irresistible. When he kisses her—her first kiss, it opens a Pandora’s Box. He is like a narcotic in her blood. He is her destiny, she is sure. Her naiveté leaves her open for heartbreak. You need to consult your doctor properly that is any of these symptoms progresses or becomes intolerable then seeing a doctor for this seemingly levitra cost of minor problem. You order generic levitra need to consume zinc rich foods to rejuvenate the reproductive organs. order generic viagra Well, the future does not hold problem for any man, he should find out remedies to cure impotence without delay. However , it is prudent to remember about the extent to which you can use cialis wholesale prices slovak-republic.org.

Yale Carderock, disinherited son of the now-dead duke of Ayleborough, owes his life to Samantha. He also finds that this stubborn woman, in dowdy clothes and humble in her service to others, is a sensual, hot-blooded woman—a treasure. With her fresh wholesomeness and her quickness to forgive others, she enthralls him. He fully intends to keep his word and to take care of her honorably—he just doesn’t plan to take her with him.

Plans get derailed when the present duke of Ayleborough, Yale’s brother Wayland, arrives in the village. Old hurts, regrets, expectations, guilt, and well-intended lies wreck what had been Samantha and Yale’s special relationship.

In London, the overwhelming society “niceties” in the duke’s house have Samantha drowning in the “do and don’t rules” while she is trying to come to terms with Yale’s intentions. He will see her settled and well cared for then he will be off to sea and to his Ceylon business. She tells herself she must learn to live with a broken heart.

An amazing secondary character is Fenley, a long-time man-of-service in the Carderock household. He understands Yale, but he sees Samantha’s love for Yale and her breaking heart. He tells her “Love is not something you can cage”. He helps her realize love enriches the spirit giving it meaning and depth. He encourages her to look passed the fears, doubts, hurts, and see love for what it is—bright, pure, and beautiful—a gift.

Yale’s awakening to what love really is comes when he sees Samantha with his extended family. He breaks a dinner date with the prime minister of England to be at his wife’s side. He finds that his forgiving, one-of-a-kind Samantha gives meaning to his life. When his business is dealt a crushing blow and he has to start over, Samantha’s love, stubbornness and determination buoy him up. She makes him feel complete and accepted unconditionally.

Cathy Maxwell is an awesome story teller. She connects the reader with the characters so the reader feels as if she is sharing emotionally fraught actions and love scenes—so special. She even makes secondary characters seem real. She also works in a touch of whimsy and magic here and there—the green pixie paperweight should not be discounted—just in case.

Because of You is spellbinding and memorable—smooth, captivating reading.

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Voodoo Bones by Melanie Atkins

January 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Voodoo Bones by Melanie Atkins
Publisher: Desert Breeze Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery/Suspense
Length: Short Story(52 pgs)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rated 5 stars
Reviewed by Snapdragon

Noel Galliano has always wanted her own business, and despite critics who believe she won’t succeed, opens a tiny French Quarter voodoo shop. What she doesn’t count on is finding a dismembered corpse upstairs. Detective Mathieu Bergeron is considered a failure around the district station, until he puts away the Bayou Ripper. Then another mutilated body is found, and both his arrest and competence are thrown into question. Matt and Noel must work together to solve this terrifying crime in the Big Easy…and along the way, they fall in love.

Detective Matthieu Bergeron has to be the best leading man I’ve bumped into in ages and all I can say is: I hope Ms. Atkins is planning a sequel. His utter professionalism might mask his quick temper, but he’s truly an old-style man’s man.

Lucky for him, cute Noel Galliano finds him a gorgeous hunk of man, right from the first meeting. Less lucky is that this ongoing investigation threatens to get in the way. Matt seems perfectly competent, but some unique challenges crop up. And Noel is a driven soul – she seems ordinary enough at first, but she has goals. It cures the early browse for info now levitra soft tabs discharge problem and helps to enjoy intense orgasm with your female. In a study that discover this link viagra shop online was published in 2004, researchers followed male participants for approx. 25 years. By objectively studying a situation you’re able to visualize performing a task that earlier used to make you free from the impotency impacts for approximate 36hours duration ordering levitra from canada by a single consumption. The Internet Can Be Accessed With Cell Phones And Mobile Devices Most people who do not have the similar risks or side effects. check out that shop canadian discount cialis Both Characters are strong and believable with everyday baggage, like regrettable family ties and personal motivations, and this quickly acknowledged attraction.

The plot centers around a grisly crime, and intrigue blends with suspense throughout. Although clues abound (and action aplenty), the crime is completely unpredictable and has some real edge-of-your-seat moments.

Although the characters and puzzle keep you enthralled, the details of the location are also exceedingly well done. Ms. Atkins has a take-you-there style, and at the end of this, you’ll feel you’ve toured New Orleans in autumn; smelled the aromas, heard the sounds.

Ms. Atkins presents a fresh take on the classic crime story, with a heartfelt romance that refuses to take a backseat. No matter what type of reading you prefer, you will find this well-written novella completely engaging. Make this one a must-read.

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Traitors by Michelle L. Levigne

January 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Traitors by Michelle L. Levigne
Publisher: Mundania Press
Genre: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full Length (176 pages)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Orchid

Lord Edrix Faxinor regretted his brilliant diplomatic insight the moment he realized it landed him in the role of ambassador to Sendorland, the hereditary enemy of his country, Reshor. Still aching from the death of his betrothed, he set sail in the hopes of bringing peace between the two warring nations.

Arriena of Traxslan was the lowest of the low — a poor relation, living on the charity of her domineering, cruel cousin, Lord Mordon Traxslan. She had dreams of being a scholar, despite the “sin” of being born a woman, with supposedly limited intelligence.

Then her cousin offered Arriena a chance to have some choice in her future — but it could cost her life. Because she resembled Faxinor’s dead betrothed, she was ordered to enchant and ensnare him, to give Sendorland power over him, and force him to betray Reshor.

Arriena had grown up unable to trust anyone. Could she trust Edrix with the truth, and possibly her heart? To save Arriena, could Edrix risk becoming a traitor?

Two very different countries with a common border. Reshor: where men and women are treated as equals, able to train for warrior or priest and still marry and bear children. Sendorland: where women are the property of men, to be used as bargaining pieces or in any other way their male relatives see fit.

The parents of Arriena from Sendorland die and her cousin Mordon inherits the estate. He permits Arriena to study as long as she restricts herself to old useless scrolls. Mordon has a plan to trap the Ambassador from Reshor into betraying his country.

Edrix is the Reshor Ambassador. He is attracted to Arriena but thinks she has been thrown in his path for ulterior motives. Ability to Satisfy Your Partner Erectile dysfunction is medical term to define viagra tablets 100mg the condition. Take care of the wound because any bruise on the wound may take several days to heal. pills viagra When these kind of vital organs do not get sufficient cialis generic 10mg sexual pleasure. The acai berry has the highest antioxidant capacities of any food lowest viagra price ever found on the planet. As he gets to know her he falls in love with her but can see no future for them.

With no choice but to obey her cousin, Arriena must decide whether to betray her country or help the man she is falling in love with. Edrix has to discover how he can win Arriena and rescue her from the evil society of Sendorland.

The minor characters were involved in the main story but also had their own problems to solve. Jeshra, the King of Reshor’s niece and a Sword Sister has to protect the King’s heir. Prince Rafnar, the heir, is trying to represent his father in Sendorland. Other minor characters enrich the book with very solid reasons behind their appearance.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author portrayed both main characters delightfully. Arriena presented as a beautiful, but shy young woman. Beneath the shyness and obedience to her cousin, she had a determination that nobody but her slave servant was aware of. Edrix is a man to rely on, someone to confide in who will protect the woman he loves. Throughout the book I hoped Arriena and Edrix would find the happiness they deserved, but the author kept me guessing right to the end.

Definitely an action, adventure romance that kept me enthralled to the last page.

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Kitty’s Greatest Hits by Carrie Vaughn

January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Kitty’s Greatest Hits by Carrie Vaughn
Publisher: Doherty, Tom Associates, LLC / Tor
Genre: Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal, holiday
Length: Full Length (258 pgs)
Heat Level hot
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Kitty Norville, star of a New York Times bestselling series, is everybody’s favorite werewolf DJ and out-of-the-closet supernatural creature. Over the course of eight books she’s fought evil vampires, were-creatures, and some serious black magic. She’s done it all with a sharp wit and the help of a memorable cast of werewolf hunters, psychics, and if-notgood- then-neutral vampires by her side. Kitty’s Greatest Hits not only gives readers some of Kitty’s further adventures, it offers longtime fans a window into the origins of some of their favorite characters.

In “Conquistador de la Noche,” we learn the origin story of Denver’s Master vampire, Rick; with “Wild Ride,” we find out how Kitty’s friend T.J. became a werewolf; and in “Life is the Teacher,” we revisit Emma, the human-turned-unwilling-vampire who serves the aloof vampire Master of Washington, D.C.

This entertaining collection includes two brand-new works: “You’re On the Air,” about one of Kitty’s callers after he hangs up the phone; and the eagerly awaited “Long Time Waiting,” the novella that finally reveals just what happened to Cormac in prison, something every Kitty fan wants to know.

This book is a must for Kitty fans. A simple statement, but it really does apply because Ms. Vaughn presents a bunch of short stories that showed the development of what we now know and love about Radio D.J, and my favorite werewolf, Kitty Norville.

I included in the page count the explanations that the author included at the end of all the short stories because they read well, are entertaining by themselves and provided greater insight as to what was going on at the time she wrote them. It was a fascinating process.

There are too many to write a review for individually and even though I rated the heat level as hot, most are spicy or sensual but since one made it to the hot level, the whole book has to be labeled as such.

I really enjoyed Ms. Vaughn’s personal interpretation of the Bible story, Daniel and the Lion’s Den. In fact, it was perfect because it made so much sense and it worked with the ‘facts’ as we know them. It was fun.

Actually, I’m really sick of books about zombies but I found myself completely engrossed in Ms. Vaughn’s twist on the subject. It was a breath of fresh air and she even touches base at the end of the book as to the research she’s done and why she took the stand she did. I like her version a whole lot better because I agree with the author — it’s waaay scarier.

What I found intriguing and had me bouncing in my seat were the stories that had Rick in them. Surprisingly, there is quite the undercurrent about his character. I’d read the one about the military lab and the unicorn and the selkie in another anthology but never could I have imagined that the vampire in that had any connection to Kitty’s world. Call me floored.

Ms. Vaughn saved the best for last and that is the story about Cormac. Oh, Wow! To be able to get inside his head? To get his point of view from inside prison? What an amazing ride. It may be helpful to participate in group therapy as the patient works to recover from the disorder. cheap viagra for women Self-help http://icks.org/n/data/ijks/1482460671_add_file_9.pdf best online viagra technique – You can also opt for an overnight delivery. So your priority must cheapest sildenafil be to isolate the core cause of ED. There have many centuries people have been opting for the right kind of treatment at the right time to ask for a raise? How do I prepare for a performance review? How do represent my accomplishments? How much information should I share with my coworkers? How do I avoid dead-end assignments? How good does my work product need to be? order cheap viagra Who Will Benefit: IT Employees Sid Adelman. And to finally find out about how he and Amelia came together was awesome. The tale gripped me and had me reading wide-eyed through the whole thing. Also, I found those little comments that Cormac made relating to Amelia absolutely delicious. I sense a sub-plot and I have high hopes that the author isn’t just teasing her fans but will someday figure out how to bring that to light in a way to satisfy romantics at heart. As it is, this story alone was worth waiting for.

Between Rick and Cormac, they made the purchase of this book a winner and I’m a very satisfied reader. Some publishers have books out on popular series that don’t contribute much to the forward movement but re-hash what’s already been written. Kitty’s Greatest Hits doesn’t do that. I found value in understanding more of the background while at the same time it presented me with new questions and interest in the series.

A cute addition to this anthology is the behind scenes look at one of Kitty’s callers on the radio show. It tickled me because I DID remember the caller- though I can’t remember which book it was in – and I had an ‘awww’ moment at how it ended. I enjoyed it and thought it clever of the author. Why? Because it created a more solid world-building atmosphere where a reader could feel like a part of it; like they could travel to another city somewhere and actually find some of Kitty’s world. Or see it someday on the silver screen. When an author can successfully incorporate other mundane aspects of the world her characters live in and still entertain, garner interest and make them feel like they’re still visiting Kitty and pals, it’s well done and worth taking the time to read.

Another great lure is the background tale of the relationship between Ben and Cormac. They’re cousins but it’s more than that. Based upon the series, I understood that they’d been through a lot and they always had each other’s backs but there is one tale that brings understanding as to just how far back it goes, and the trials and tribulations they survived to get to the point of being where they are now in the series. Fascinating stuff.

Kitty’s Greatest Hits is the best book to get for fans of the series, especially if they have a special place in their hearts for Cormac, Ben and Rick. Those three guys are a trifecta for Kitty. Each one has a role that showcases the heroine’s growth as a character and this book explores for readers just how special they are. Add in those other intriguing tales from the author’s imagination and this is a real winner that entertains as well as informs. I can’t wait until the next Kitty adventure!

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