Romance Book Reviews

 

Under the Radar

Author: Fern Michaels

Series Connection: The Sisterhood

ISBN: 978-1420106831

Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense

 

4 Hearts

 

This is the 13th in Sisterhood series by Fern Michaels. I'm really go back and forth about what I think of Fern. I like some of her books, other just don't do it for me. This one wasn't bad, but it did seem to have some of the reoccurring issues that I have with Fern's work. It starts a little on the slow side, but picks up toward the middle. I liked the change in the series where the "Sisters'" fearless leader doesn't make all the decisions for the ladies and they get to show themselves a little more in this book.

 

When the sisters receive a call from their friend Pearl Barnes, Annie takes the command. The ladies don't really have a plan as to what they are going to do, but they follow their instincts and hope for the best.

 

This is a really a fast read with some cute dialog, which is something I really do like about Fern Michaels' writing style.

 

Description:

In the middle of the night, the sisterhood is your only hope. A sister's work is never done - not when there are wrongs to right and underdogs to defend. Just returned to their mountaintop hideaway after their latest successful mission, the seven fearless friends enjoy a celebratory dinner and retire to bed. But within an hour, an alarm sounds, and the ladies rush into the compound in time to see Myra and their mentor, Charles, climbing aboard a helicopter. All that's left is a mysterious note, signed by Charles. Still reeling, the Sisters receive an urgent call from retired justice Pearl Barnes. Pearl runs an underground railroad to help abused and displaced women, and she's just rescued fourteen pregnant teenagers who belong to a highly secretive and controversial polygamy sect. But keeping the girls safe will require the kind of help only the Sisterhood can provide - if they can band together and go it alone...

 

Desire Untamed

Author: Pamela Palmer

Series Connection: Book 1 in the Feral Warriors series

ISBN: 978-0061667510

Genre: Paranormal

Release Date: June 30, 2009

 

5 Hearts

 

I happened to get a review copy of this book months ago and wound up reading it really early. I just loved it. All the characters were strong, but hero and heroine are a perfect match. The hero is definitely a strong, sexy, alpha male type.  Lyon will stop at nothing to save his group of shape-shifter warriors. He needs Kara's help in saving not only his kind, but all of humanity, as well. Kara is raised as a human. It is only when she meets Lyon that she finds out that there were a few things her mother forgot to tell her.

 

Quickly she is thrust into a world nothing like the small town she is from. This world has demons, mages and men who turn into different types of animals. It might be just a nightmare, but it is all two real.

 

The story line is filled with suspense and action. The plot complicated with a lot of sub characters, but easy to grasp.  Pamela Palmers imagination really runs wild in this series and that is all the better for the readers. I re-read the story a second time last night to familiarize myself with it again and wasn't disappointed by it in the least.

 

Description:

Kara MacAllister's quiet small-town life is transformed forever the night a powerful stranger rips her from her home, claiming she is the chosen one – the key to his survival. Spiriting her away into the rain-soaked night, Lyon reveals a truth Kara can barely credit. She's immortal, and the only one who can save his race. And deep within her, he arouses a fierce, primal hunger beyond anything she's ever imagined. But only when their lives are threatened by an ancient evil will Kara and Lyon realize they have found a love they would risk their immortal souls to claim...and a powerful desire that could never, ever be tamed.

 

Her Boyfriend's Boyfriend

Author: Cheryl Dragon

ISBN: 978-1-59632-935-5

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ M/M/F / Menage / Gay

 

4 Hearts

 

Complicated menage romance about a bi-sexual CEO who decides that it is important for his business to have a relationship with a woman for public sake. The only problem is when Neil starts dating Cassie he finds that he misses his former boyfriend, Lou.

 

Neil introduces Cassie to Lou, but doesn't let her know of his former relationship with Lou. Cassie and Lou begin to become close friends. She knows that Lou is gay, but has no idea that Neil and Lou have feelings for each other. When she asks Lou for some advise about what to do to make Neil enjoy their sex life some more, Neil walks in on them and everything starts to get really interesting.

 

Her Boyfriend's Boyfriend tells a good story of a complicated relationship. As the three adjust to each other there are a lot of feelings being passed around. The story line moves from one sex scene to the other all hotter than the next. This book definitely hits the scorching scales in that department.

 

Description:

Cassie has found the man of her dreams, he's rich and smart and hotter than hell! But their sex life is off and he's not talking. She is determined to get to the bottom of it no matter what it takes.

 

Neil used to have a boyfriend, Lou, and the two men shared women but never found one they wanted to keep. He never stopped loving and needing Lou and without that man in bed with him and Cassie, Neil will never have all that he needs. He tried to go straight for Cassie and his career but the truth can't be denied.

 

Neither can the chemistry between Cassie and Lou. She's never had two men before. A menage life, it's a delicate balance but it's the only way to satisfy everyone's intense needs. Cassie demands no more secrets and she wants to explore everything the man have shared and more together. . .even if it might dredge up issues like where they met these women and who Lou has been screwing since the breakup. With three people in bed, things can get tangled but there's always someone to turn to.

 

About the author from the back of her book:

A lover of unusual things, Cheryl Dragon enjoys writing unique stories with sinfully hot erotic romance. Never at a loss for ideas, there are plenty of contemporary and paranormal stories waiting to be written. Her two favorite settings are Las Vegas and New Orleans. . .where anything can happen!

 

Cheryl lives in the Chicagoland area with her deaf albino cat. By day she analyzes numbers as an Assistant Controller for a division of a large international conglomerate, which leaves the creative juices free for her erotic romance novels.

 

If He's Wicked

Author: Hannah Howell

ISBN-13: 978-1420104608

Genre: Historical/Suspense/Paranormal

 

4 Hearts

 

If He's Wicked is set in 1785 England where seer, Chloe Wherlocke, foresees her sister's death after she gives birth to her dead child. She also sees others who conspire to use the dead child as part of a plan to destroy and kill a young Earl, by switching her sister's dead child with his live one. Chloe keeps the Earl's baby until she knows he is safe. The story then jumps to three years later when she finally meets the Earl and saves his life as she did his son's.

 

There are a lot of characters to get used to in this story, but the plot keeps readers interested as Chloe and the Earl, Julian, work to stop the plans of his evil wife and her lover. First though Chloe has to get Julian back to the man he once was before his wife turned on him and he in turn turned to woman and drink. The two are a great couple and as the suspense builds their love affair takes shape.

 

This novel is well worth the read mostly because of the heroine, Chloe. She holds the appeal of an sweet innocent girl, who is smart and keeps her head in times of crisis. Those who like historical romances that use language of the time will like this book.

 

Description:

She saves his life. . .

 

For Chloe Wherlocke, it all begins with a vision - a glimpse into the future that foretells a terrible plot against Lord Julian Kenwood and his newborn son. Chloe's psychic gift allows her to save the child from certain death, but the earl remains in grave peril. . .

 

But when he steals her heart. . .

 

Julian Kenwood knows someone is trying to kill him and he suspects his scheming wife and her lover are behind the plot. But Julian is shocked when Chloe, a captivating, dark-haired stranger, warns him that sinister forces are indeed at hand - and exposes a devastating secret that changes his life forever...Will she resist - or surrender? As Chloe reveals her plan to save Julian, neither can deny the attraction that grows each moment they're together. Chloe knows the highborn earl could never love her as she loves him. But when danger strikes closer than ever, Chloe must risk everything - or lose Julian forever. . .

 

Deception

Author: Jenny Penn

ISBN: 1-60601-057-3

Genre: Contemporary erotic romance/menage

 

4 Hearts

 

Since I gave a less than stellar review for the previous book by this author I decided to check out another book by Jenny Penn. I liked this one a whole lot better. The story was well crafted, fun and very, very sexy.

 

Tessa opens her door one day and mistakes two very sexy men for someone she hoped an agency had sent over to help with a friend's problem. She winds up spending a night of unbridled sex with the two men. One night turns into a week and quite by accident, Tessa learns the error of her ways.

 

Ty and Chase have a bone to pick with Tessa and instead of calling to make an appointment one day take to knocking at her door. Without correcting her they allow her to believe they are someone else. The next week they spend pleasuring the woman, but what will happen when she finds out who they really are?

 

Description:

Banning & Dunn's newest development has ground to a halt thanks to the determined opposition of one woman. In an attempt to save money and time, the developers decide to take matters into their own hands.

 

When Tessa opens the door to Ty and Chase, she is expecting to help her friend with her marital problems, not get swept off her feet by two of the sexiest men she ever met. One night of passion evolves into a sizzling week long affair.

 

When reality crushes Tessa's fantasies, will she be able to get over being deceived?

 

About the author from the back of her book:

I live near Charleston, SC with my two biggies, that's my dogs. I have had a slightly unconventional life. Moving almost every three years, I've had a range of day jobs that included everything from working for one of the worlds largest banks as an auditor, to turning wrenches as an outboard repair mechanic. I've always envied the fact that we only get one life and I have tried to cram as much as I can into this one.

 

Throughout it all, I've always read books, feeding my need to dream and fantasize about what could be. An avid reader since childhood as a latchkey kid, I'd spend hours at the library earning those shiny stars the librarian would paste up on the board after my name.

I credit my grandmother's yearly visits as the beginning of my obsession with romances. When she'd come, she'd bring stacks of love stories, the old fashion kind that didn't have sex in them. Imagine my shock when I went to the used bookstore and found out what really could be in a romance novel.

 

I've working on my own stories for years and have found a particular love of erotic romances. In this genre, women are no longer confined to a stereotype and plots are no longer constrained to the rational. I love the anything goes mentality and letting my imagination run wild. I hope you enjoyed running with me and will consider picking up another book and coming along for another adventure.

 

Taming Samantha

Author: Jenny Penn

Series Connection: Sea Island Wolves Series: Book 2

ISBN: 1-60601-196-0

Genre: Paranormal/werewolf/menage/domination

 

3 Hearts

 

This is really a hard book for me to give a review on. For the most part I didn't really like the book. I gave the author credit because for the style of book, it was well written and filled with all the right scenes. I, myself, just can't get into all the domination stuff. I don't mind when it is done in a game, but when the male characters are dominant the way the leads were in this book it just isn't a turn on for me.

 

There were a few other things I just didn't like about the concept of the story that kept me from finding any redeeming qualities in at least one of the lead male, but I won't get into that and give spoilers away. That being said, I did like some of the supporting characters and I believe that I would read on to the next part of the series when it comes out because I like the theme of the series.

 

Those who like domination, strong male alphas and werewolf story might like this book. As with any stories it is all about personal preference.

 

Description:

Samantha Hark is running from one werewolf when she ends up in the arms of two. Can she overcome her fears and insecurities to trust in the love they offer her or will her time run out as her past closes in with deadly intent?

 

JD and Caleb McBane aren't about to let anything or anyone stop them from claiming their mate, even if that person is Samantha herself. The mating musk may render their feisty mate pliant to their commands, but when it wears off, Samantha is back in fighting mode.

 

Can JD and Caleb tame Samantha before her enemies strike the killing blow?

 

Mating Claire          

Author: Jenny Penn

Series Connection: Sea Island Wolves Series: Book 1

ISBN: 1-60601-058-1

Genre: Paranormal/werewolf/erotic

 

4 Hearts

 

Sexy romp about a werewolf who finally finds his mate only to find out that she is attached to a stalking demon and not who she claims to be. When Claire comes to Derek's small town looking for a supernatural demon and a serial killer, he learns there is more to the world then even he as werewolf knows about.

 

When Claire meets Derek for the first time, she feels the instant attraction, but she also see a man who is arrogant, obnoxious, domineering and totally full of himself. But Derek is a persistent wolf and he knows what he wants and that's his mate.

 

This is a fun story that is filled with wild, exciting sex scenes.

 

Description:

Following the trail of a serial killer and a demon, Claire Hallowell arrives in Wilsonville, SC. As difficult as her case is, it is the small town police chief with his easy smiles and blatant sexuality that threatens Claire's

highly structured world.

 

Arrogant and cocky, Derek Jacob knows his mate when he meets her. As the Alpha of the Narian Pack, Derek is not about to let anything stop him from claiming Claire.

 

Claire might fight it, but there is no denying the instantaneous heat between them. Sex comes easy while trust comes harder for the couple with secrets to hide. Follow Claire and Derek's journey to overcome

the obsessive attention of a demon and killer to find love.

 

Beltran

Author: Erin O'Riordan

ISBN: 978-1-897559-57-4

Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal

 

4 Hearts

 

Life takes a lot of twists and turns and there are never any guarantees. Beltran is a delightful tale of two twin sisters and where life takes them. Allie believes that she had found the man of her dreams and is ready to settle down. On the day of her wedding she asks her twin, Zen two check her fiancee, Paul Phillip's, feelings for her. Zen finds that the man loves her sister, but he is hiding something. The wedding takes place as planned.

 

As life goes on, Zen meets a man who is very unhappy and conflicted. She falls in love with him, but isn't sure if she is the woman for him.

 

What really makes this story is the quirky, likeable characters. No one is perfect and those in the story don't pretend to be, but even when they don't follow the normal path, the readers can still like them.

 

Description:

Twin sisters Allie and Zen have always shared everything: including an unconventional upbringing at Pagan Spirits Farms. They even fall in love at the same time.

 

Pagan priestess Allie thinks she's met the man of her dreams in her buttoned-down lawyer fiancee, Paul Phillip. But is he everything he seems? 



Zen, a witch gifted with the sixth sense, falls for Orlando. But there's a catch: Orlando is married to someone else. As the celebration of Beltane nears, the sisters seem destined to be unlucky in love.

 

But the Goddess moves in mysterious ways, and May Day may turn out to be magic for them after all.

 

Decadent Deceptions

Author: Keta Diablo

ISBN 978-1-60592-013-9

Genre: Historical Romance

 

Decadent Deceptions is an erotic historical romance filled with mystery and suspense. It was an entertaining, lively story. The drama unfolds in Georgia of the 1800s where good girls kept their virginity until they married. Keeping a close watch on her, Olivia's father saves her chastity when Morgan would have made her his lover. Now years later, Olivia's father is dead and Olivia knows exactly what she wants, Morgan.

 

The only problem is that when her father dies he writes his will in a way that would mean she could never marry Morgan and keep her inheritance.   So Olivia comes up with a crazy scheme. She convinces Morgan to take her to a brothel so she can choose her future husband based on his ability to please a woman. This leaves Morgan with a lot of trouble on his hands, because not only does he have to keep Olivia out of trouble, but he also winds up having to save her from a murderer who has targeted her as his next victim.

 

I liked the chemistry between Morgan and Olivia and the erotic scenes were very well written.

 

Description:

Daring and desperate to win Morgan's love, Olivia Breedlove embarks on a reckless folly. But everything backfires when Morgan remains one step ahead of her and the game ventures down a path of duplicity and murder.

 

A decade ago, Morgan was a heartbeat away from taking Olivia's virginity. Her father, Thaddeus, intervened and threatened to meet him over pistols if he so much as looked at his daughter again. But now, Thaddeus is dead and Morgan has no intention of ignoring the ravenous hunger he's harbored for the blasted woman for ten years.

 

One way or the other, he will quench this burning desire and make her his forever.

 

Lover and Commander

Author: Jez Morrow

ISBN: 9781419918704

Genre: Futuristic/ M/M

 

4 Hearts

 

Talon is a strong Kuryeen warrior. When he meets Earthbreed Liam Grey he is disgusted to find himself partnered with such a barbarian. As time goes by and the two men are sent to guard a nearby planet Talon soon discovers that he can't help who he falls in love with, but loving a another man is just not done where he comes from.

 

Laim is excited about the chance to command his own ship. He doesn't mind that he is stationed with Talon and as with everything else he makes the best of it. When Liam learns the lengths that Talon will go to fight the attraction he has for Liam, Liam can't help but try and stop Talon.

 

This emotionally charged book delves into the issues of how two heterosexual alpha male types deal with suddenly being sexually attracted to each other.

 

Description:

Talon is the elite of his kind, one of the proud, beautiful Kuryeen. So he cannot understand how he ended up under the command of barbarian Earthbreed Liam Grey.

 

Ace fighter pilot Liam is the sort of untamed brute that Kuryeen females pretend to have no interest in — but they always look.

 

Talon finds Liam's so-called boyish charm childish. Liam is brash, brazen, shameless — qualities not valued by the Kuryeen. To the warrior, pride is everything and Talon would choose death before shame. Talon is afraid of Liam and cannot say why. Friendly, cheerful Liam is no one his wingman should fear. So why does Talon's guard go up the first moment Liam brushes near him? Talon only knows that his commander presents a threat to him beyond his ability to resist.

 

About the author from the back of her book:

Jez Morrow is a Scorpio with Scorpio rising. The eyes are gray. The hair is blonde at the moment. Rather than the traditional cat, her writing familiar is a large black dog. She is published internationally under several names.

Jez is married to her true love, a combat veteran. (She has a thing for a military man.) Jez and her husband (and the dog) currently live in Ohio, but their hearts are in the Smoky Mountains.

 

Bonding Experience

Series Connection: Werekind 2

Author: Cora Zane

ISBN: 1-60088-037-1

Genre: Shifter/Bondage

 

4 Hearts

 

Luke has loved Claire for years, but she would never give him the time of day. Still burned from their experiences in high school, she finds it hard to except when her pack leader send her a mating contract between herself and Luke. Now she has to do some fast thinking to get out of the contract before Luke manages to convince her it is a perfect idea.

 

With Bonding Experience, Cora Zane provides an appealing, erotic story with a sexy alpha hero and a delightful sassy heroine. While Luke is at times arrogant he also has enough grace to be worried that he just might not get the woman he loves in the end. 

 

Description: 

When her pack leader issues a mating contract between herself and hotshot werewolf Luke Roman, Claire knows there must be some mistake. She doesn't know Luke very well, but she can't imagine two less compatible people being thrown together.  

 

Luke has loved Claire for years, and he isn't about to let her undo what he's worked so hard to put into effect. When she refuses to discuss the pact with him, even when he follows her home, Luke finds a silk scarf on her dresser and decides to try other, more creative ways of getting Claire's undivided attention.

 

About the author from her Website:

Cora Zane has always held a fascination for the unknown, the dark things felt rather than seen, strange occurrences that fall into the realm of the paranormal, and the creatures that stalk the night. 


 

In 2005, when she announced to her family that she had written a story about werewolves, they were shocked to discover it was a romance - and an erotic one at that. Two years and string of novellas and short stories later, they've finally accepted her naughty imagination, and her belief that lost souls need love too. 

Cora lives in rural North Louisiana with her husband, two children, and two grumpy old watch dogs.

 

Forbidden Fruit

Author: Anne Rainey

ISBN: 978-1-60310-179-7

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

 

5 Hearts

 

Ava has been in love with Luke since they first met in high school, but he has never seen past the layers of clothes she wears to see the woman underneath. At least that is what Ava thinks. Luke is a strong alpha male character that has watched Ava from afar never allowing himself to get close enough to her. That is until his best friend decides there is more to Ava than anyone had noticed before. Now Luke must let Ava know what he feels for her before it is too late and he loses his chance for good.

 

This is one of those magical books that touches all the right buttons. I loved the strong, stubborn Ava who isn't afraid to show her passionate side to the sexy Luke. Luke is the kind of guy every woman secretly loves. He has just enough bad-boy and possessiveness in him to arouse a women's attention. He can have any woman he wants and even so falls for the pretty girl next door type.

 

Description:

Veterinarian assistant, Ava Sweet has lusted after bad boy Luke McGiffin since high school and she's tired of him treating her like a kid sister. It's time to show the hunky roofer her feminine side. 



 

The plan: let Jen, her best friend, give her a makeover, then tempt Luke right out of his sexy jeans.  But can Ava handle a man with such strong appetites or is she in over her head?

 

Three for the Rodeo

Author: Luxie Ryder

Series Connection: Midnight Cowboy 3

ISBN: 1-60601-470-6

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Western Romance/Menage a Trois

 

4 Hearts

 

Luxie Ryder brings another fun read, made more enjoyable by the likeable characters. Not normally so brazen, one night Sadie decides she's had enough of her two best guy pals believing she's just a kid sister type. After a few too many beers she turns on the sex appeal. When she realizes she's gone a little to far, she decides to put on the breaks. That's all well and good, but her friends, Kyle and Gabe, decide that it is just not enough. In order to put their friendship back on track the three decide that an evening of some fun sex might do the trick. But one night is just not enough and soon Sadie realizes that she wants something more from one of the guys, but is it too late? This book has some hot and steamy sex scenes and some ever-loving rodeo fun.

 

Description:

Sadie wants to be just like the guys. She longs to join them in the rodeo ring, riding the broncos and bringing down steers. But her friends, Kyle and Gabe, have strong objections. Unable to understand why they refuse to help her, Sadie's frustration boils over, resulting in a wild night in the bar that forces them all to reassess their relationships with each other. Embarrassed by her behavior, Sadie is shocked to learn that rather than ruin the friendship, she has simply reignited the sexual interest they've had in her since the day she arrived in Hurley. 



 

Learning how to ride a bull is the last thing on her mind while she has her hands full with two sexy cowboys. She's determined not to let their relationship with her return to a platonic state.



 

One sassy woman. Two rugged cowboys. Three for the Rodeo!

 

About the author from the back of her book:

I live in a beautiful part of the Southwest of England with the husband I married on St. Valentine's Day this year and our dog. We have our own small business, which allows me to work from home

and leaves plenty of free time for my hobbies. My first experience of writing was creating what is known as 'fan fiction' on the Internet forum of one of my favorite artists. Lots of my readers gave me really positive feedback and encouraged me to write more and take things further. Without them, I would never have had the confidence to submit a manuscript. I enjoy the process of writing and creating characters I would like to meet and situations I would love to be in.

 

Red: A Tale of Seduction

Author: Maddie James

ISBN: N/A www.resplendencepublishing.com

Genre: Erotic/Paranormal/shapeshifter

 

5 Hearts

 

Despite the fact that this story is way too short, it was a well-plotted page-turner taking place in the mystical Bayou of Louisiana where anything can happen and does. Max LeBlanc is a werewolf who hears a calling to head to the city from the comfort of his Bayou home. When he gets there he instantly understands why. There is the mist of all the partying of New Orleans' French Quarter Max finally finds his mate. As he watches the woman he longs for he plans a seduction to make her his.

 

Garnet Boudreaux and her mother left the Bayou years before. Having to return for work purposes Garnet and her friends head out for a night on the town where she meets Max and runs into her Aunt Madeline. Her aunt tells her that she must run and go to her grandmother quickly because she is needed desperate. Not really liking the idea she realizes she has no choice, so Garnet goes to the Bayou to see what is happening.

 

Max is running out of time. He must mate on the full moon and that ends this evening. Can he mate with Garnet in time? And if he does and she is not the perfect mate for him what will their future be?

 

This novella takes the everyday werewolf them and adds a little magic of the Bayou. I was very impressed with how much characterization the author packed into such a short story. Paranormal fans will love the twists and turns into the shapeshifter realm that Maddie takes in this story.

 

Description:

Garnet Boudreaux is going home. Not back to her nice little apartment in New York City , but to her childhood home in the bayou. She doesn't want to go, and isn't certain what will be waiting for her when she arrives. But standing there in the voodoo shop on Bourbon Street , in the middle of one helluva party, she's told by Madame Madeleine Dupuis that she has no choice. She presses two pouches into Garnet's hands, wraps a red cape around her, and tells her she must go—and go now—to see to her grandmother.

 

Max LeBlanc spies the lovely red-head across the street and knows in a heartbeat she is the one. A rougarou always knows when he's met his mate. Some may call him a lycanthrope, a werewolf if you will, but in Cajun bayou lands he's known simply as The Rougarou. He'd waited several hundred years for this moment, and for her. There is nothing left for him to do, but mark her and claim her as his mate. Soon.

 

About the Author

Maddie James is widely published in fiction and non-fiction. With six novels in paperback, one in hardcover, and one e-published, she's most excited about her upcoming releases with Resplendence Publishing.

 

Her non-fiction work lies predominately in academia, with several dozen articles, training manuals, and book chapters in print. She's been a contributor the last several years to the Newspaper Association of America's annual literacy day tabloid, in syndication to over 400 newspapers. She's worked with a children's education publisher to develop literacy materials for early childhood teachers.

As an educator, she has over twenty-eight years of professional experience under her belt. Her day job working for a non-profit literacy organization only fuels her passion for books and reading as she sees first hand how learning to read can change people's lives. She spends a large portion of her day-job time working with schools, and supporting literacy in families, on American Indian reservations.

 

Being a Libra, she strives to balance her time wisely—not that she always succeeds. The day job, the kids and grandkids and granddogs, those pesky yard-sale junk projects that nag at her, her plants (inside and out), that '"to be read'" pile of books, that elusive cookbook project she's worked on for years (she's a former Home Economics teacher), and a plethora of characters and unfinished stories in her head often make that task a challenge. But she tries. Really. She does.

 

Maddie is a member of Novelists Inc., Romance Writers of America (RWA), and several of its chapters – Kentucky Romance Writers, KYOWA Romance Writers, Published Authors Special Interest Chapter (PASIC), and RWA's Published Author Network (PAN). Her first published novel, The Wild West, won the Calico Trails Cameo Award.

 

Night Angel

Author: Renee Reeves

ISBN: 9780980224634

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Western

 

5 Hearts

 

This emotionally breathtaking and powerful love story is the first published book for Renee Reeves and is sure to be the first of many appealing stories from her. After surviving a devastating marriage, Morgan moves to Montana to start a new life. While there she meets her neighbor, Nick, an ex-convict. Nick isn't overly fond of people. He trains difficult horses for a living, a profession which takes a great deal of patience. While seeing Morgan sitting by a stream in the moonlight, Nick falls in love with the her. Not wanting to scare her, he doesn't alert her to his presence and just watches over her.

 

When the two finally meet, Nick realizes quickly how emotionally scared Morgan is from her abusive dead husband and finds out just how hard it will be to get close to her. Does he have enough patience to get through to the woman he loves? This romance novel is bound to have some in tears as they hear the heart wrenching tales of both Nick and Morgan's lives before they meet each other. It definitely isn't light hearted, but well worth the read.

 

Description:

Scarred and with a permanent limp, Morgan moved to a quiet cottage in rural Montana wanting tranquility, solitude, a place where she could heal from the brutality inflicted on her by her late husband.

 

Ex-convict, horse trainer, Nick Evanoff didn't need anyone, at least he never had. Then he spotted Morgan sitting in a copse of trees, technically trespassing. One glimpse of her stopped his aggression cold. In its place lust rose; powerful, primitive, demanding. There was something else there too – need.

 

But Morgan was determined to have nothing to do with men, and to go nowhere near a relationship ever again. Could Nick work the same magic with Morgan that he worked with the abused horses he rescued? Could he teach her that it was safe to trust, that sex didn't have to be painful or humiliating?

 

About the author from the back of her book:

I was born in Stuttgart, Germany but moved to the states at a very young age. I've lived in North Carolina most of my life where I started riding and showing horses. I've always loved anything 'horsey' which includes a fascination with ranches, cowboys and Indians. At the age of 12 I read my first romance novel and was hooked. By age 15 I had decided that one day, instead of an artist, I would become a romance writer. I began with poetry and moved on to short stories, none of which I did anything with. Then I got married and my husband told me that if I wanted to write a book then go ahead and write one. And so I did.

 

A Promise Kept

By Stormy Glenn

Series Connection: Loosely connected to Mr. Wonderful, but a stand alone book

ISBN: 978-1-60370-652

Genre: Contemporary Romance/ M/M

 

4 Hearts

 

For years Mason has been in love with Jack, but he thought that Jack was straight so he never did anything about it. After 10 years Mason thinks its time to get on with his life and forget about any fantasies he might have about Jack. Mason decides to finish up his schooling across the country and leave town.

 

Jack never realized that Mason didn't know he was gay. He has been attracted to Mason for years, but promised his best friend, Mason's brother Randy, that he would not do anything about his attraction. When Mason tells Jack he's gay, Jack is shocked and realizes he never really knew anything about the younger man. After hearing the news Jack goes out and gets drunk and has the bartender call Mason to come and get him. The two men spend the night together, but when Jack wakes up he can't remember anything except his promise to Randy and says some terrible things to Mason. Mason leaves town earlier than expected and but returns shortly after.

 

While Jack and Mason make their way toward each other with a little help from Mason's new friends and his family, another man has taken a liking to Mason. Mason doesn't know the man who tries to pick him up from the dance floor, but he immediately knows he wants nothing to do with him. This stranger has other ideas, putting Mason, Jack and everyone Mason loves in danger.

 

I loved the lead characters in this story. They are both strongly defined and well developed. Part of the books charm however was the secondary characters, which I'm hoping will have their own books in the near future. While ten years seems an unrealistically long time to wait, I think the author presented her story so well that it made Jack and Mason's love seem all that much stronger. This is definitely an erotic romance so be ready to have it knock your socks off in that department.

 

Book Description:

Mason is in love with his brother's best friend, Jack. It's been ten years of secret fantasies, hidden glances, and forbidden yearnings. Just when Mason decides to give up on Jack and move away, his friends step in to get them together.

But new love is not always easy. Especially when a serial killer has his sights set on Mason being his next victim and he'll destroy anyone who gets in his way.

 

About the author from her Website:

I believes the only thing sexier than a man in cowboy boots is two, or three men in cowboy boots. I also believes in love at first sight, soul mates, true love, and happy endings.

 

After 25 years of bankrupting the family with my reading obsession, I decided to try my hand at writing my own novels. It still amazes me to this day that people are actually interested in the stuff that comes out of my imagination. It can be a real mess up there.

I live in the great Northwest region of the USA, with my gorgeous husband and soul mate, six very active teenagers, two boxer/collie puppies, two old biddy cats, and three fish. When I'm not being a mother to my six teenagers or cleaning up after my two 70 pound lap puppies, you can usually find me cuddled in bed with a book in my hand and a puppy in my lap. Or on my laptop, creating the next sexy man for one of my stories.

 

 

Retreat From Love

Author: Samantha Kane

Series Connection: Brothers In Arms Book 5

ISBN: 9781419919428

Genre: Historical/Menage/ M/M/F

 

4 Hearts

 

No matter the time period when men go off to war they can't help but come back scared in some manner. In Samantha Kane's series Brothers In Arms, she creates a world where men from all different walks of life are brought together during a horrific war. During the war they could do nothing but turn to each other for support and love. Now that they have returned home it is time to get on with their lives. They don't want to lose the relationships they have formed while at war, but the relationships they have created their society won't accept. To help them stay together and sane, the men have decided that they need a woman to help complete their union—a special woman who would understand their unique situation.

 

In Retreat From Love, Samantha tells the story of Freddy and Brett. In this unique case, Freddy, the Duke of Ashland, didn't meet Brett until after the war was over. Brett was a good friend of Freddy's brother Bertie, who was killed in the war. After Bertie's death Freddy finds the man who befriended his brother to thank him for all that he had done for his brother only to find him hurt and in need of a friend himself. Five years later the two men have become inseparable.

 

Hoping to finally settle down at his home in Ashland Park, Freddy takes Brett home with him. He knows that Brett had secretly fallen in love with Bertie's fiancee, Anne. He hopes that Brett will marry Anne and that the other couple will allow Freddy to settle in with them, for he loves both Anne and Brett and he can't stand the idea of being apart from either of them.

 

Brett is a man who has lived with his guilt about Bertie's death for five years. It kept him from going to Anne as soon as he was able. Bertie gave his life for the Brett and now he believes that he cannot have a life with Anne or Freddy. He must deal with the past before he can deal with the future.

 

Anne quickly finds herself in love with both men and knows that she cannot have either one. Freddy is determined to convince her that she is wrong.

 

I'm a little undecided on how I feel about this book. I loved the previous four books. Samantha writes with such high emotion. She doesn't gloss over what problems these men or the women who choose to be in their lives will face when society finds out what their relationship is all about. She shows that love will find a way. In Retreat From Love, the books was well written as the previous books in the series was with the same strength of writing and emotion, but I was a little disappointed with Freddy and Brett because I imagined them differently from previous stories, but I can't really complain too much. It was a nicely written story for those who enjoy historical stories with very erotic, sultry love scenes.

 

Book Description:

A man with everything except his heart's desire.

Frederick Thorne, Duke of Ashland, has been in love with Brett Haversham for years. If the only way to have him is to give him what he wants Freddy will share him, in bed and out, with the woman Brett loves. The woman who was Freddy's first love.

 

A man sacrificing everything for the past.

Brett Haversham is in love with two people he's sworn never to touch. But his desires prove to be stronger than his resolve when they both set out to seduce him—together. The incredible sex they share overwhelms him.

 

A woman with nothing left to lose.

Anne Goode lost her fiancee Bertie in the war. Now his younger brother Freddy is back, all grown up into the handsome and powerful duke. And he's brought Bertie's best friend Brett with him. Lonely and already ruined, Anne can't resist taking both of them as her lovers. Is the uncontrollable desire between the three enough to heal the wounds of the past and overcome the problems of the present? They must accept love rather than retreat from it.

 

I liked the acknowledgment that the author wrote in her book. Here it is:

I discovered several wonderful sources while researching this book. Great Houses of England & Wales by Hugh Montgomery-Massingberd and Christopher Simon Sykes (Universe Publishing, 2000) and The Regency Country House by John Martin Robinson (Aurum Press, 2005) were invaluable in helping me to create Ashton Park.

 

The pictures in these two books are astounding. What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew by Daniel Pool (Touchstone, 1993) is a very informative little book that is a marvelous jumping-off point for Regency research. Irene Collins' Jane Austen and the Clergy (Hambledon and London, 2002) has become a favorite resource as well. Collins uses Austen's life and her books as a focal point to describe country living in detail. Any mistakes or factual errors in Retreat From Love are mine and mine alone, and cannot be attributed to these lovely sources.

 

I have to tip my hat to two major sources of inspiration for this book. I had always looked forward to writing Freddy and Brett's story. I knew what their story was, but I wasn't sure how to write it and do it justice. Several months ago I was listening to Michael BublŽ's song Home, and within the space of one verse this book took shape. Next on my list is Marlon Brando and one particular scene in On the Waterfront. For those of you who have seen it, you will recognize the scene. For those of you who haven't, get thee to your local video store.

 

Fiddler on the Woof

Author: Blayne Edwards

Series Connection: Caine and Oh Yum! By Ellora's Cave

ISBN: 9781419916816

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance/Werewolf

 

4 Hearts

 

This novella is a stand-alone book that has some of the same characters and similar story line to Blayne's Caine book. I was really excited when I realized this book was connected because I always hoped that the author would write more as part of that same series. I'm hoping she still considers writing stories about Caine's two brothers. That said this story is about Caine's cousin a twenty-four year old prodigy that comes to help teach Caine's cubs how to sing. While visiting his cousin, Joseph decides to do a little teaching at the local college and when he does he meets Aubrey.

 

Aubrey is forty years old and has been with quite a few different varieties of the human male species. At least that's what she thinks until she meets Joseph. Despite being forty, Aubrey has not problem spending a little one-on-one time with Joseph. He's smart, gorgeous and they have fun together. The only question is what will Aubrey think when she finds out, that no matter how many human men she's been with, none of them can compare to Joseph's hybrid species.

 

I have a soft spot for these older women, younger men stories. I liked Aubrey's brassy attitude. She wasn't really hung up that there was an age difference between her and Joseph and Joseph seemed more than interested. This book is a fast paced, lusty read. I like the story line and the connection to the first story. Individually this story is a keeper, except that I'd read the first one and was hoping it would keep along with the style of that book a little more. Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do with so few words in the story.

 

Book description:

For Aubrey Upton, pushing forty isn't a problem. She's pretty much done and seen it all. And though the quirky professor still feels nineteen deep down, she's well past the age of fairytale romances and puppy love. Until Professor Joseph Bolinger, the hottest puppy she's ever seen walks into her life.

 

Joseph, the twenty-four-year-old musical prodigy and wolf/human hybrid, finds most women his age think and act like he did when he was nine. Perky or not, twenty-year-old females are intellectually flat. Boring. Hardly mature enough to handle dating outside their species.

 

 

 

But Aubrey— It's about much more than the intellectual '"fit'". Her scent, her touch, drive the big bad wolf inside him to want to take her down, permanently, preferably with him on top.

 

 

About the Author:

Blayne Edwards was born, raised, and still resides in the foothills of the Appalachians in Southeast Tennessee with the timber wolf bitch she adopted and the human animal she married. She feels an overwhelming passion for writing, sex, animals, fear, and loud obnoxious music and believes she was put on this Earth to somehow become the embodiment of them all. Blayne believes—in everything.

 

Addition

Author: Lynne Logan

ISBN:  978-1-60310-310-7

Release date: May 1, 2009

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

 

4 Hearts

 

Addition is a short novella about a woman who goes on a search for her missing sister. Holly knows that he sister usually spends time at a local sex club and decides to go in and check out the place. While there she can't help but get caught in the ambiance. While looking for her sister, Holly meets Carlos a local reporter looking for a story. This is a straight up erotic romance. Lynne Logan knows her subject well and has a great style, keeping the sex scene hot and exciting throughout book. 

 

Description from the book:

Desperate to locate her sister, Holly Donovan steps through the door of one of Phoenix's infamous sex clubs. But within the club's walls, Holly finds herself enticed by the blatant desire and the raw sexuality of a masked stranger.

Carlos Hernandez is at the club to get an in-depth story for the local newspaper and has no intention of participating in any sex games, but he doesn't count on getting caught up in his own desire or the woman who spurs a myriad of sexual fantasies.  Dare he let those fantasies turn into a reality, and if he does, will his career ruin it all?

 

About the author from the back of the book:

Lynne Logan has always had a love of books. Many a time you can find her with a book in one hand and a diet soda in the other. Human nature and what drives people, whether it be physical or cerebral, has always fascinated her, along with a good tale of love, sex and suspense. Lynne has won and finaled in numerous contests under another pseudonym. She lives in Arizona where the summer nights are as hot as the pages she writes.

 

A Real Live Cowboy

Author: Judy Duarte

Series Connection: Fortunes of Texas—Return to Red Rock

ISBN: 978-0373654468

 

3 Hearts

 

This book is the fourth in the continuing series of the Fortunes of Texas—Return to Red Rock. JR Fortune is the older brother of both two other Fortune's seen in this series, Darr and Nicholas. JR has just moved to Red Rock from Los Angeles to be closer to his family. He purchases a ranch close to town and plans are making it a working ranch, something he has always wanted to do. After giving up his job for his father's company JR dives right in to making his new venture a success.

 

He enlists the help of Isabella to redecorate the house in its original style. Isabella has made a marriage pack with some of her girl friends. She hopes to be married by the end of the year. To that end she has created a list. Her list seems fairly simple and JR Fortune doesn't seem to fit the mold at all.

 

I am generally a fan of Judy Duarte's and really love the Fortune series, but I was a little taken a back by this particular book. The heroine in the book was frankly too snobbish for me. I understand her wanting to seek out a man who would be a good mach for the woman she wanted to be, but she never gave JR, the hero, and the chance to really show her who he was.

 

The character spent the majority of the book putting words in JRs mouth and never taking into consideration that he said in the beginning that he hired her because he like her dedication to her art and her heritage. How he wanted her to redesign his house in that manner. Instead the character, Isabella, constantly went on about how she refused to make the Kitchen too modern, albeit to herself, because it wasn't historically pleasing to herself. Not thinking that someone who lived in the house would want modern fixtures. She did the same on other issues in the house, even if JR didn't say one-way or the other how he felt.

 

I am all for characters who have issues in their past to work out and characters who may feel that rich men are spoiled and get bored easily, but after three quarters of the way into the book and the lead hero hasn't done anything that would prove her thoughts, it is long since time to let it go and move on with the plot.

 

Otherwise, I liked JR's character and the continuation of the mystery into the Fortune and Mendoza's current mystery. For those keeping up with the series, that's is the important reason to read this book and stay current with the series mystery.

 

Description from the back of the book:

He was a Texan down to his Stetson and booksÉ

Isabella Mendoza knew what she wanted in a husband. And William '"J.R.'" Fortune was so not that man. The irresistibly attractive businessman turned rancher might wear denim and spurs, but what happened when he got tired of playing cowboy?

Eldest son J.R. had come home to Red Rock to live up to the Fortune legacy. Now he wanted Isabella to share it with him. Hiring the fiery artisan to design his new ranch house was the first step. But when a devious enemy targeted both their families, he realized how far he'd go to protect the woman he loved. He'd prove that together, theirs was a heritage worth saving.

 

Two Cowboys for Christie

Author: Luxie Ryder

Series Connection: Midnight Cowboys 2

E-book ISBN: 1-60601-314-9

Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance/ Menage a Trois/ Multiple Partners

 

4 Hearts

 

It had been 15 years since Christie ran from Garrett and Connor's barn rejected and upset. Since then she has lived her life, been married and divorced. Now back in her hometown for a funeral, she finds that what she had thought happened 15 years earlier wasn't exactly how the two men remembered it. No matter how much time has passed they want to make her an offer. Themselves.

 

Christie would always love Connor and Garrett, but what they are offering just wasn't right no matter how good it feels. Can she be with both men? This is a quick read short novella. It seems unfortunate sometimes that there just isn't enough time to go into detail on these short stories, but the author does write very sensual erotic scenes and for those who like great sex in their stories, this one is well done.

 

Description from the author's Website:

When Christie revisits her childhood home, she never dreams that her adolescent fantasies are about to become a reality.

 

She'd once been inseparable from the boys on the next ranch, but Garrett and Connor are all grown up and the games they want to play now aren't for kids.

 

When the two men make her an offer to pick up where they left off one drunken night in the barn as teenagers, Christie finds she is tempted. But who wouldn't be with two muscle bound, blue-eyed cowboys offering to make all your fantasies come true?

 

Christie reacts as they hope she will and a hot, steamy night ensues, leaving her with a difficult decision to make.  Should she let society and her own sense of what is right and wrong keep her away from the two men she has never stopped loving and the place that is her destiny?

 

About the author from her Website:

I live in a beautiful part of the Southwest of England with my fiance of 15 years and our dog. We have our own small business, which allows me to work from home and leaves plenty of free time for my hobbies. My first experience of writing was creating what is known as 'fan fiction' on the Internet forum of one of my favorite artists. Lots of my readers gave me really positive feedback and encouraged me to write more and take things further. Without them, I would never have had the confidence to submit a manuscript. I enjoy the process of writing and creating characters I would like to meet and situations I would love to be in.

 

The Starlight Chronicles Book 3: Under His Command

Author: Annabel Wolfe

e-ISBN: 1-60601-259-2

Genre: Sci-fi/Erotic Romance/ Menage a Trois/ Multiple Partners

 

4 Hearts

 

In an effort to save her sister's life and others, Peyton Valmont goes against orders to rescue colonists stranded on a dying planet. While all goes well, her very strict and by-the-book Commander can't let her action go unpunished. He offers her three choices. The first two are completely out of the question. She has come to far in her career to let it all go when she can do something that will save her rank and status. The only problem is in exchange her punishment she will have to one month's sexual service to a two men of higher rank then herself.

 

Thinking quick Peyton decides that to keep the respect of the other crew members she must give herself to the only man high enough in rank status to keep what she has worked so hard to earn. She makes the Commander a proposition.

 

Commander Kel Gallico has been attracted to Peyton since she stepped foot on his ship. How can he refuse the offer she is making him? Simple, he can't. The story line behind the book is a little sexist, but really the book itself is well written. Annabel is a master at writing erotic scenes that keep the reader engaged and breathing heavy. There is also a whole other story line going on in the book that makes it more than just a sex novel. Sci-fi romance buffs will enjoy the story line and the otherworldly descriptions.

 

Description from the book:

Peyton Valmont is a top-ranked pilot, but she's also insubordinate, broke dozens of rules, stole military property...and she has to be punished. Commander Kel Gallico and Colonel Jake Naiad might privately think the daring lieutenant is gorgeous, but that is beside the point. Duty is duty.

 

Kel is known as one of the most strict ship captains in the entire federation. He's worked hard for that recognition, and just because he has a secret weakness for one luscious, willful pilot does not mean he is willing to cash in his career. Until he is sent to enact a rescue gone wrong on a planet where danger takes on a whole new meaning and having a rogue pilot who breaks the rules without thought is a decided advantage.

 

Two powerful males, the one woman who dares to challenge their authority, and a dangerous situation where the rules might just be suspended, makes everyone wonder who is Under His Command.

 

About the author from the back of the book:

Annabel Wolfe loves the unlimited possibilities of futuristic romance. New worlds, dangers we can only imagine, no rules, and of course, those dynamic heroes and independent heroines. She lives in rural Indiana with her husband, three children, and her cat and constant companion, Mr. Poot.

 

Mastering the Marquess

Author: Vanessa Kelly

ISBN: 978-1420106541

Genre: Historical Romance

 

Mastering the Marquess is a nice debut novel for Vanessa Kelly. I was really impressed with her writing style and the story itself kept me reading and entertained until the end. That is saying a lot because usually I'm not really a fan of historicals. The best part of the book was the feisty heroine Meredith and her fight to keep her stepsister out of an insane asylum. I also liked the development of the relationship between Meredith and the Marquess of Silverton. I will definitely be looking for more from this author in the future.

 

The time is 1815 when women didn't have any rights. If they had any inheritance or money it was kept by the men in their lives. Meredith's stepsister Annabel is still a child when both her parents die and it is left to Meredith to take care of her even though her uncle is still in charge of Annabel's inheritance. Out of the blue, Meredith's aunt tells her that she must marry her cousin or the uncle will put Annabel away in an asylum. Feeling this would be the death of her sister, Meredith takes the bull by the horns and braves taking Annabel to London and seeking out Annabel's grandparents. The rich society family disowned their daughter, Annabel's mother, when she married Meredith's father.

 

Annabel's grandfather is not very welcoming, but she does find allies within the family. Annabel's grandmother is happy to see the young woman and wants to help as much as possible. Also willing to do what he can is Annabel's cousin the Marquess of Silverton.

 

Although Stephen, the Marquess, knows that his aunt, Annabel's grandmother, want him to marry the young Annabel, he falls fast for the young girl's sister. Meredith is everything he has been looking for in a wife, but Stephen has always looked out for his family first and Annabel is in desperate need of his help against the other side of her family who is out to get rid of her to get a hold of her fortune.

 

Description from the back of the book:

London, 1815—Country spinster Meredith Burnley will do anything to save her half-sister Annabel, including risking her own life and sacrificing her only chance for happiness.  When Annabel's guardian threatens to lock her up in a lunatic asylum, Meredith vows to find a husband to protect the girl, and the arrogant and powerful Marquess of Silverton seems like the perfect man to keep Annabel safe.

 

The ton's most popular rake, Silverton hides a growing disgust with his inability to feel any emotion for the beautiful girls thrown his way.  But he needs to marry, and Annabel will serve his purposes.  Silverton is stunned, however, by his fierce attraction to the unfashionable Meredith, whose quiet ways conceal a passionate and sensual nature.  He's determined to claim her, in spite of his promise to woo her sister.

 

Meredith knows she must never betray Annabel, or succumb to the charms of the sophisticated Marquess of Silverton.  Her willpower, though, is no match for his skillful and relentless seduction, or the temptation of forbidden love.  But her surrender to passion soon puts Meredith and Annabel in danger, and only Silverton can rescue them.  The arrogant Marquess must be willing to risk everything--especially his heart--or lose Meredith, and his last chance for love.

 

About the author from her website:

...In addition to all the great literature I was reading, I discovered Amanda Quick, Stephanie Laurens, Jo Beverly, and so many other talented writers.  I just loved their ability to craft elegant, thrilling, and passionately sensual stories about intelligent women and the big, strong alpha males who loved them. And I wanted to be a writer just like them.

 

Fast forward a few more years (after a period working in the public sector as a researcher and writer), and I finally got my wish.  I began writing Regency-set historical romances, and signed my first contract with Kensington Books in May of 2008. 

 

And like any good heroine, I did find my Happily Ever After.  I'm married to a swell guy (who is also a writer), have two great stepsons and a daughter-in-law, and more good friends and family than any one person deserves. 

 

And I get to write passionate, sensual romances about my favorite period in history.  Just like Amanda, Stephanie, and Jo. It was worth the years in the swamp. Happy reading!

 

Texas Ranger Dad

Author: Debra Clopton

Series Connection: Mule Hollow Book 10

ISBN: 978-0-373-87524-5

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Christian

 

Rose Vincent has led a hard life. She's been through it all—seeing a murder, witness protection, then getting stuck with a wife beater for a husband, living in shelters and moving she and her son all over the country just to stay hidden. Now her life is finally on track and an idea for a better life for she and her son. Just when everything is going well an old flame comes back into her life and she isn't exactly pleased to see him. Zane walked out on her without even saying goodbye 14 years ago, leaving her pregnant and on her own at a time when she was terrified.

 

Zane has finally realized he has to make up for his past mistakes where Rose is concerned. He tracks her down to a little town in Texas. Now all he has to do is convince her to forgive him and the two of them can go on and live happily ever after. He should have known it wouldn't be that easy. Then he gets the shock of his life. Not only is Rose much more stubborn then he remembered her to be, but he also has a son.

 

Debra writes a good storyline, but frankly this story has been done to death. The best thing she has going however is the secondary characters. This is a continuation of her Mule Hollow series and the supporting cast are all back with helpful advise. One of the things l liked best about this story is that even with the theme of the story being about matchmakers, the group of ladies that make up the matchmaking team decided that they shouldn't do anything because they were asked not to. Zane and Rose made a nice pair, as well, even though they had a lot issues between them to work out. I really like the author's writing style and the town setting and the added characters gives new life to a well used subject matter.

 

Description from the back of the book:

'"That Boy Looks Just Like Zane!'"

 

Everyone in Mule Hollow can see the resemblance between former Texas Ranger Zane Cantrell and Rose Vincent's son. The same gold-flecked amber eyes. The same smile. Not that Zane is smiling. He's in shock! How could Rose have kept their child a secret from him? Rose reminds Zane that he's the one who walked away.

 

He has to make her see he had no choice. But Rose is as prickly as the cactus jelly she makes. And that's where their hopeful son and the Mule Hollow matchmakers come marching in.

 

About the author from her Website:

Debra lives in the small Texas town of Madisonville with her dog Bogie, a wrinkled Chinese Shar-Pei. When Debra isn't writing on her next book she loves to renovate houses and take long or short road trips—as long as she's doing the driving. She also believes whole heartedly in exercise and eating dessert first. She has a weakness for cheesecake and has been known on many occasions to eat two slices at the same time--followed of course by a long walk! A very long walk.

 

Debra Clopton's readers have described her books as refreshingly funny, a breath of fresh air, reflective, entertaining, exciting, and the list goes on. Debra praises God for giving her the ability to weave a story, a talent she has dedicated back to Him. Her hope is that through the humor and entertainment of her books God's love will shine a pathway straight back to Him.

 

Turbulent Passions

Author: Anne Rainey

ISBN:978-1-60504-490-3

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release date: April 9, 2009

 

Description

Love. Is it blind luck? Or just a lump on the head?

Sapphire Demas and her twin brother have a secret. Since the awful day their parents were killed, they've been in hiding, fearful the same fate will befall them. Now she's grown tired of living a half-life, tired of lying. She wants something just for herself. When she stumbles across an unconscious man while hiking through the woods and brings him home to heal, she knows she's found it. Even if he's a dangerous outsider.

 

Investigative journalist Adam Richton trusts only one thing—his nose for news. He's never failed to get a story and doesn't intend to start now. Until a beautiful and mysterious woman rescues him. In an instant, he forgets all about his career. Now all he wants is Sapphire, any way he can get her.

 

Then he witnesses something extraordinary that puts his reporter instincts back on full alert. Something that exposes Sapphire's secrets, challenges him to believe the unbelievableÉand to trust in something way out of his comfort zone: love.

 

Product Warnings

This title contains hot, steamy, explicit sex. Oral sex. Sex in public places. And sex using scarves and other naughty things.

 

About the author from her Website:

Anne lives in a small town way out in the middle of no-where-ville. She is a gorgeous blonde with wonderful curves and a money tree in the backyard. She never wants for anything and she always loves everyone. Of course, she wasn't always this way.

 

It all started on one Rainey day, as she was sitting on her comfy couch, reading a romance novel and sipping a hot chocolate. She realized the book she was reading seemed to lack a certain 'vavavoom!'. Thus, the talented, beautiful, and rich Anne Rainey was born.

 

Clearly, Anne is a mere figment. A ghostly figure that pops in and out of my head like a drive-by author. Nevertheless, I do so love it when she's visiting, because her imagination really is wickedly delicious! She'll bring you fantasies and erotic delights that will have you grabbing the ice water!

 

 

 

Nobody But You - A Grayson Friends Novel

Author: Francis Ray

ISBN-13: 978-0312946852

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

Book description:  

NASCAR champion Cameron Dunlap is poised to win this year's Sprint Cup. But being a successful race-car driver comes with a price. Cameron knows that his profession puts him at high risk. Thankfully, his latest visit to the hospital left him intact. That is, until he bumps into Caitlin Lawrence--and is thrust back into his painful past.

 

Caitlin left Cameron at the altar because she could never accept Cameron's fast and furious existence. The threat of losing him on the racetrack was just too much for Caitlin — and the young son Cameron never knew he had. Now that this chance meeting has changed their lives forever, will Caitlin and Cameron find a way to recapture what might have been?

 

About the author:

Francis Ray is a native Texan and lives in Dallas. A graduate of Texas Woman's University, she is a School Nurse Practitioner with the Dallas Independent School District. In 1999 and 2000 she was nominated for Texas Woman's University Distinguished Alumni Award.

 

Ms. Ray's titles consistently make bestseller's lists such as Blackboard and Essence Magazine.. INCOGNITO, her sixth title, was the first made-for-TV movie for BET. She has written thirty-one titles to date. Awards include Romantic Times Career Achievement, EMMA, The Golden Pen, and The Atlantic Choice.

 

Roommates

Author: Helen Gabriel

ISBN: 978-1-59632-677-4

Genre: Contemporary Romance M/M

 

4 Hearts

 

Short but sweet book about a police officer who takes in a temporary roommate for the summer. The story doesn't give enough time to get to know the characters other than the fact that they fall into a strong sensual relationship. Well written romantic story with a scorching sex scene for those into M/M erotic romance.

 

Description from author:

The same characteristics that make Morgan Bryant a good detective -- his intensity and focus -- have sunk his past relationships. He's not looking for a convenient fuck when he seeks a roommate, just someone to help with the bills for the summer. But he gets so much more in Jasper Lawrence. From the start, Jasper's big, sexy body calls to Morgan. Morgan worries that if he lets his desire to screw Jasper control him, he'll lose out in the long run.

 

Jasper, who has come to California to get his head on straight, is surprised when he falls for his gruff, blond roommate right from the start. The focus that made Morgan's past lovers uncomfortable turns Jasper on. Morgan's hard body makes Jasper long for some uninterrupted time with Morgan between the sheets.

 

About the Author from the back of the book:

A romantic at heart, I enjoy happily-ever-after endings. I believe love can conquer all, and, luckily for me, so do the characters in my head clamoring for their stories to be written. Questions are second nature to me, which is good because this lets me learn new things to make my stories come alive. When I'm not plotting new stories or arguing with my characters I'm reading.

 

His Sweet Obsession

By Tess MacKall

ISBN: 978-1-60313-487-3

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

5 Hearts

 

My View:

Addy left her home at 18 years old after seeing the man she loved in a sexual embrace with her aunt. Not coming back for 15 years, after her aunt passes on, it is time to deal with her feelings for Jack. Memories from the past keep getting in the way as Addy and Jack work their way back to each other.

 

This story is highly sensual and down right sexy at times. I loved the emotion that the author brings out in her characters. So much time has passed, but Addy and Jack still have quite a bite of unfinished business between them. This is their chance to make things right. The sex between them is highly combustible, which I definitely enjoyed. With Addy, Tess has developed a strong, brazen heroine, who has a lot of pent up anger. Jack is a true Texas cowboy, strong, yet isn't afraid to show Addy exactly how he feels.

 

From the back of the book:

Have you ever loved someone so much you'd wait your entire life for them just to discover love may not be enough? Jack and Addy belong together, but their past haunts them. Will their sweet obsession be enough to sustain them or will it tear them further apart? 


 

Coming back to Texas was the last thing on Addy's mind, but with the death of her Aunt Maggie who raised her, that's exactly where she finds herself-- back under the scorching Texas sun and thanks to Maggie's last will and testament, tied to the very place she ran from years ago. 
Jack has lived and worked on the Double Eagle Ranch all his life. It means everything to him--with the exception of Addy.

 

Years ago he hurt her and she left because of it, but now she's back and he wonders if God has given them a second chance.

 

About the author from her Website:

With a background in journalism I began my career with a local newspaper and then moved on to my greatest passion–politics. With a flare for marketing, I worked in various political campaigns across the south and honed my skills as a speech writer. Leaving the political arena, I returned to my beloved hometown in the south to raise my family and to finally live my dream of writing romance.

 

Next on my list of dreams is to start life anew in a small coastal town. I'm hearing the call of the ocean and can imagine myself sitting on the beach listening to the waves and to all those sexy characters that keep talking to me in my head.

 

Life is about change and the need to keep it fresh. There is nothing more exciting than a little '"reinvention'" from time to time--new locales to explore and to motivate the muse. My three children have been my greatest joy and when I pass from this life to the next, I want a diamond created from my ashes for each of them because '"love lives on'".

 

 

Romance Byte:

 

Smooth Talking Stranger

Author: Lisa Kleypas

ISBN-13: 978-0312351663

Book Release Date: March 31, 2009

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

Description:

From Author's Website: Ella Varner has it all--a successful career as an advice columnist, a handsome boyfriend, and a circle of friends in Austin. When anyone has a problem, Ella knows the answers.

But one night she receives a call that changes everything. And as Ella's world is turned upside-down, she meets a man who is the opposite of everything she ever wanted . . .a man who will offer her the most irresistible challenge she has ever known . . .

 

From Borders' Website: Jack Travis leads the uncomplicated life of a millionaire Texas playboy. He makes no commitments, he loves many women, he lives for pleasure. No one has ever truly touched his heart--until one day when a woman appears on his doorstep with a baby in her arms.

 

From Barnes and Noble's Website: Jack Travis leads the uncomplicated life of a millionaire Texas playboy.  He makes no commitments, he loves many women, he lives for pleasure.  But no one has ever truly touched his heart or soul.  Until one day, a woman appears on his doorstep with fury on her face and a baby in her arms.  It seems Jack is the father and this woman is the baby's aunt. The real mother has abandoned the child to her more responsible sister.  And now, Jack is being called upon to take responsibility for the first time in his life.  With delicious romantic tension, characters so real they walk onto the page and into your heart, Lisa Kleypas delivers the kind of novel that makes you laugh, love; cry and cheer. 

 

About the Author from her Website:

After graduating from Wellesley College with a political science degree, she published her first novel at age twenty-one. Her books are published in fourteen languages and are bestsellers all over the world.

Lisa writes for St. Martins Press and is represented by her agent Mel Berger, of the William Morris agency. Just a little fun fact: In 1985 Lisa was named Miss Massachusetts in the Miss America competition.

 

Romance Book Review:

 

Passion

Author: M.L. Rhodes

ISBN: 978-1-60272-477-8

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Gay

 

4 Hearts

 

Description:

As the owner and CEO of his own company, Robert Bauer has spent the past fifteen years building his business into a multi-million dollar corporation.  It's taken all his time and energy, which hasn't left much room for a personal life, especially a love life.  That's fine with Robert because he doesn't believe in the L word anyway.  Lately, however, every time he goes to his favorite bar, he can't keep his eyes and thoughts off Jesse McIntyre, the gorgeous bartender with the soulful blue eyes. Even though Robert's not looking for a relationship, and tries to shake the attraction, he can't get the younger man out of his system. There's just one problem...he believes Jesse's straight.  

 

Jesse's been on the run from his old life for the past two and a half years.  Even though he slings drinks at a gay bar, he has a hard and fast rule about never hooking up with customers.  He's been down that road before, and though his physical wounds have healed, the emotional ones aren't so easy to forget.  He lets his customers assume he's straight because it makes it easier to keep his distance.  That is until the businessman with the sexy smile starts coming into the bar. Jesse's drawn to Robert, even though he knows there's no way a wealthy, powerful man like that would ever be interested in a tattooed, college drop-out bad boy like him.  But even if Robert weren't his opposite, it wouldn't matter anyway, because Jesse's determined not to break his rules for anyone.

When fate throws them together, and they find themselves alone for a weekend, the passion that's silently simmered for months ignites a firestorm that leaves them both shaken.  Will it be enough, though, to convince Robert, who's sworn to never fall in love, that he might be pushing away the best thing that's ever happened to him?  Or to force Jesse to face his fears once and for all and learn to trust his heart?

 

From the back of the book about the author:

Award-winning and bestselling author M. L. Rhodes has been writing for a living for fourteen years. Her characterization and emotional storytelling have received high critical acclaim from such places as Romantic Times Magazine, The Romance Studio, and JERR and have garnered her numerous awards in the writing industry.

 

In her gay romances, she enjoys pairing together strong, independent heroes who are open to exploring both their sexuality and their emotions. Men fall in love with one another every day, and M. L. believes in celebrating that!

 

My View:

In her latest, M.L. once again brings a good plot and hold readers attention to the end. In Passion she tells the story of two men who have both been hurt in their past and after one snowed in weekend realize that they have both done the thing they most didn't want to do, fall in love. Through the emotion filled scenes each man has to come to terms with their past and trust each other.