Short Book Review-The Highland Dragon's Lady by Isabel Cooper

Title: The Highland Dragon's Lady 

Author: Isabel Cooper 

Series: Highland Dragon 

Format: E Book 

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Release Date: December 2 2014 

Pages: 352

Genre: Historical Paranormal Romance 

Where To Find:
 Authors Website|B&N|Amazon|Goodreads|LibraryThing

Book Review-Sinfully Ever After by Jayne Fresina

Title: Sinfully Ever After 

Author: Jayne Fresina 

Series: Book Club Belle Society 

Format: EPub 

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca 

Pages: 384 Pages 

Acquired: Netgalley 

Genre: Regency Historical Romance 

ISBN: 9781402287798

Where To Find:  

Authors Website|B&N|Amazon|Goodreads|LibraryThing

Short Book Review-Christmas At Thorncliff Towers by Marina Myles

Title: Christmas At Thorncliff Towers 

Author: Marina Myles 

Series: The Cursed Princes 

Format: E Book 

Publisher: Kensington 

Release Date: November 24 2014 

Pages: 65

Genre: Fairy Tale Romance 

ISBN 10: 978-1-60183-286-3

ISBN 13: 1-60183-286-9

Where To Find: B&N | Amazon|Goodreads|Library Thing

ARC Book Review-'Till Dragons Do Us Part

Till Dragons Do Us Part
Never Deal With Dragons (3)
Lorenda Christensen
Carina Press
E Book
Published October 27 2014
179 Pages
Acquired: Netgalley
Paranormal Romance
ISBN: 9781426899171
Authors Website 

Synopsis
 Savannah Cavenaugh became a top art thief thanks to a secret ability—a dragonmorph, she can literally fly away from the scene of the crime. Next up: stealing a priceless painting out from under the snout of Lord Relobu, North America’s fearsome dragon ruler. True, she’s never had to work in the midst of Earth’s most polarizing wedding before. Keeping her true identity hidden will demand she get creative, to say the least.

Cameron Shaw has one last chance to prove himself. As Lord Relobu’s interim head of security, he needs to ensure the world’s very first interspecies wedding happens without a hitch. That means keeping an extra close eye on the wedding planner’s pretty young assistant. She’s adorable, but something’s not quite right…

Fumbling her way around bouquets and linens turns out to be the least of Savannah’s problems. Crushing on Relobu’s hottest human henchman was not part of the plan, and neither was revealing her—achem—ferocious side. But when her archrival shows up to nab the very same painting she’s after, all bets are off…

My Review

ARC Book Review-The Earl's Mistress by Liz Carlyle

The Earl's Mistress
MacLachlan Family and Friends (10)
Liz Carlyle
Avon Books
E Book
Acquired: Edelweiss
Published August 2014
384 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN:  9780062100306
Authors Website 

Synopsis
New York Times bestselling author Liz Carlyle creates her darkest, most sensuous story yet, as a delectable but desperate governess runs headlong into the path of a notorious rake...

Women rarely refuse the wicked Earl of Hepplewood, whose daring exploits are only whispered about. But when his new governess answers his proposition with a slap, then stalks out, references in hand, Hepplewood finds more than his face is burning.

Isabella Aldridge has brains, bravado, and beauty—but the latter is no use to a servant. Her circumstances are desperate, and with Hepplewood's words ringing in her ears, Isabella realizes she must barter her most marketable asset . . . her body.

But when fate sends Isabella back into Hepplewood's arms, the earl must make an impossible choice—draw Isabella down into his sensual darkness, or behave with honor for the first time in his life.

My Review

Quickie Review-Be Were

Be Were
Southern Shifters (5)
Eliza Gayle
Gypsy Ink Books
E Book
Published Jan 27 2014
175 Pages
Shifter Erotica Romance
ISBN:  B00FYZYEXK
Authors Website

Synopsis
Dean had a family once. Until tragedy and betrayal consumed them. Now he lives on his own terms keeping life simple and carefree. Then one night leads to one bite and he's forced back into a dangerous world that reminds him he's still as angry as ever and this time he's not leaving until he gets what he wants. Niki.

Niki Harris has lived a life of secrets and solitude with no interest in making a change. But an easy one night stand turns complicated and she finds herself marked. Now she has to decide, tell the sexy shifter with a possessive streak a mile wide she's pregnant and in danger or do what she's always done--run.

Be Were is the full story from the free first chapter bonus, White Cougar Christmas.

My Review

Audiobook-Bloodfever

Bloodfever
Fever (2)
Karen Marie Moning
Brilliance Audio
Narrated: Joyce Bean
9 Hours
Paranormal Fiction
ISBN:  9780385339162
Authors Website

Synopsis 
I used to think my sister and I were just two nice southern girls who’d get married in a few years and settle down to a quiet life. Then I discovered that Alina and I descend, not from good wholesome southern stock, but from an ancient Celtic bloodline of powerful sidhe-seers, people who can see the Fae. Not only can I see the terrifying otherworldly race, but I can sense the sacred Fae relics that hold the deadliest of their magic.

When my sister was found dead in a trash-filled alley in Dublin, I came over to get answers. Now all I want is revenge. And after everything I’ve learned about myself, I know I have the power to get it….

MacKayla Lane’s ordinary life underwent a complete makeover when she landed on Ireland’s shores and was plunged into a world of deadly sorcery and ancient secrets.

In her fight to stay alive, Mac must find the Sinsar Dubh–a million-year-old book of the blackest magic imaginable, which holds the key to power over both the worlds of the Fae and of Man. Pursued by Fae assassins, surrounded by mysterious figures she knows she cannot trust, Mac finds herself torn between two deadly and irresistible men: V’lane, the insatiable Fae who can turn sensual arousal into an obsession for any woman, and the ever-inscrutable Jericho Barrons, a man as alluring as he is mysterious.

For centuries the shadowy realm of the Fae has coexisted with that of humans. Now the walls between the two are coming down, and Mac is the only thing that stands between them.…

My Review

Short ARC Book Review-It Happened One Midnight

It Happened One Midnight
Pennroyal Greens (8)
Julie Anne Long
Avon
E Book
Published Jun 25 2013
384 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN 978-0-06-211807-3
Author Website

Synopsis 
More than one beautiful woman’s hopes have been dashed on the rocky shoals of Jonathan Redmond’s heart. With his riveting good looks and Redmond wealth and power, the world is his oyster—until an ultimatum from his father and a chilling gypsy prophesy send him hurtling headlong toward a fate he’ll do anything to avoid: matrimony.

Intoxicating, elusive Thomasina de Ballesteros has the bloods of London at her feet. But none of them knows the real Tommy—the one with a shocking pedigree, a few too many secrets, and a healthy scorn for rakes like Jonathan.

She is everything Jonathan never wanted. But on one fateful midnight, he’s drawn into Tommy's world of risk, danger…and a desire he’d never dreamed possible. And suddenly he’s re-thinking everything...including the possibility that succumbing to prophesy might just mean surrendering to love.

My Review 
I was given a copy of this book by Avon through Edelweiss, and having enjoyed the previous books in the series, I was really excited. However I had a hard time getting into it. I don't know if it was just me or what, but it took me a couple of days to read it, I eventually was able to enjoy it and get into it but it was the latter half of the book. I really wanted to at least finish it so I continued on, and I felt that it was just dragging for me. I felt it had a strong plot though, it just didn't draw me in, like I am used to. What I enjoyed most about this story, is the sparks between Tommy and Jonathan, but it does take them a while before the circumstances between them get heated. You have to wait a bit for the first kiss, and I felt that the beginning of the story could have been a bit more less confusing. I don't know why, but I had a hard time connecting the dots with this one. I did enjoy the story overall, but there were a few inconsistencies that I had issues with. I really liked the characters, they seemed to be well developed. I am rating this as a 3, because I had to almost force myself to read it for the first half of the book, but I would recommend this one, if you have enjoyed her other books. It has a unique setting and I enjoyed seeing the minor conflicts that rise through the story, that only strengthen this couple's bond. 

First Line 
The moon lay on its side like a discarded pick-ax, the stars' diamond smithereens strewn all around it.

Favorite Quote
She hadn't been kissed...in so long.
And he did. His lips bumped her gently, once. 
It was downright chaste. 
She was on the verge of finding this very funny when his mouth returned to brush over hers, slowly, light as a breath.
Testing.
Lulling.
Mmmmmmm.
Devil take it, but now she was curious. 
She didn't stop to reflect that curiosity had been the downfall of many a woman. 

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
The Perils of Pleasure
Like No Other Lover
Since The Surrender
I kissed An Earl
What I Did For A Duke
How The Marquess Was Won
A Notorious Countess Confesses

Short Book Review-Silent Warrior

Silent Warrior
The Dragon Kings (0.5)
Lindsey Piper
Pocket Star Book
E book
Published April 22 2013
80 Pages
Paranormal Romance
ISBN: 978-1-4767-1325-0
Author's Website

An exciting, emotionally charged prequel to "The Dragon Kings" trilogy, featuring warriors fighting for their lives in violent Cage matches to guarantee their clans' survival.

A silent woman ashamed of her criminal background becomes a Cage warrior to seek redemption. An unrepentant fortune hunter chooses combat over death to appease a mafia family. Although rivals in battle, they find common ground when seeking their clan's stolen idol, but for vastly different reasons. Neither one suspects that love will begin when he becomes the first man in five years to hear her speak.

Short Review
Silent Warrior is the first installment in the series, its a short story, only about 80 pages or so, and introduces us into this world that Lindsey Piper has created. Now I have heard good things about this series, and about "Silent Warrior." So I was really excited to read it. It begins with the couple, fighting and pretty roughly too. I will warn you it is a bit brutal at times, and then they get into bed together, and then the romance begins LOL. The first half I was thinking, is there going to be any focus on their relationship or is it just fighting and sex? It is a bit crude especially in the beginning. I think I had a love/hate relationship with this story. I started out not liking it at all, but felt it was 80 pages, so give it a shot. Then about halfway, I felt like it started to get good, and in the way I like it. The ending was a bit rushed, and it almost felt like there wasn't much of one, but with a novella you can't be too picky, but you know that it will be a short story and won't be as satisfying as the full fledged novel. I am curious about Caged Warrior and plan on reading it soon, but I do hope that it will have more focus on the love story than Silent Warrior was. An Intense and suspense packed filled story that will put your teeth on edge.

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Blazing

Other Books In Series 
Caged Warrior
Blood Warrior
Hunted Warrior

 

Book Review-Once He Loves

Once He Loves
Medieval (3)
Sara Bennett
Avon
Mass Market Paperback
Published April 2003
374 Pages
Medieval Historical Romance
ISBN: 0-06-051970-3
Author's Website

THE PERFECT LOVER

Legendary English knight de Vessey is entranced by the golden voice of a beautiful singer entertaining the guests. Standing in for his liege lord at a nobleman's great hall, he can't take his eyes off her. Who is this angel who melts his sadness with song, filling the proud, haunted knight with warmth and a tender longing he never thought to experience again? The inviting look she gives him is too tempting to resist. And so he falls ...

THE WRONG MAN

At last Briar will have her vengeance on the man responsible for her family's ruin! Though unschooled in the ways of seduction, she will steal the handsome blackguard's heart, thus destroying his sworn affections for another. But after a night of intense passion, she discovers de Vessey is merely the emissary of her enemy. And now that she has known ecstasy in his arms --- and awakened both the gentleness and fire within him --- it is Briar who is undone, torn between her aching hunger for justice ... and her all-consuming desire for a love that must not be!

My Review

When I first picked this up, I was really looking forward to it, since I do love a romance set in something different from the regency era. And I have just enjoyed Sara Bennett's books in the past. My main concern was I had issues with the heroine...I just never liked her much through most of it, the hero was way more approachable and I found I was drawn to him.

Briar and her two sisters have been on her own since their father was claimed to be a traitor. Briar has done everything possible to protect her family. She has had to sacrifice herself and has only come out burned. She doesn't trust any man. One night while singing in a Hall, she meets Ivo de Vessey whom she believes at first is the one responsible for their circumstances. So her plan is to seduce him, and then when he trusts her, to hurt him as much as he has hurt her family. After a surprisingly sensual night together, she learns that he is not who she thought. She feels at a loss, now having caught the attention of a gentle knight who is enamored with her. Ivo is a disgraced knight, by no fault of his own, but his brother who despises him. Ivo has gone through the world and is afraid of losing his heart to another woman, until he meets Briar, who stirs his blood and makes him believe that they could have a chance, if only Briar would learn to trust in their love.

Ivo is one of those knights that you want by your side. Even though he hasn't has the best of luck, he has some powerful friends that know how loyal and trustworthy he is. I really enjoyed what strong character he had. He was so patient with Briar, when I wanted to string her up a tree at times and throw her into the ocean. Ivo was very romantic and never took Briar too literally, he seemed to understand her fears and it was interesting seeing his manner with her. Ivo won me over from the first few chapters. Now Briar, I had a difficulty with. I could never get to the point where I liked her. She seemed to take away much from the story. I think it could have been better if Briar hadn't been so bitter and offended at every turn. No matter what Ivo did or said, it was a major fight for her. She was very confrontary, and always looking for a fight at times. Frankly she was annoying and I was constantly frustrated with this character. I admired Ivo for his patience with her.

Even though this is my least favorite from this author, I do want to read the first two in the series, since we see one of Ivo's friends (his is the first book in the series), and I loved how he and his wife have a positive involvement. I found that despite me not liking the heroine in any way, and even though she took a major enjoyment of the story, there were other aspects of the story that were enjoyable. I really liked how the plot plays out, and the way there is a bit of a mystery and a danger aspect to the story that only adds to it. A story that doesn't exactly stir you up, but is one that you can enjoy at times.

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
The Lily and the Sword
The Rose and the Shield
Kissing the Bride

Book Review-Seduction Wears Sapphires

Seduction Wears Sapphires
Jaded Gentlemen (2)
Renee Bernard
Berkley Sensation
Mass Market Paperback
Published August 2010
291 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-425-23596-6

Ashe Blackwell has enjoyed the life of an unrepentant rakehell ever since his return from India. But when his beloved grandfather challenges him to reform for a single, social Season in London—or forfeit his inheritance—Ashe agrees to the ultimate wager.

Fearless when it comes to a dare, Ashe fails to anticipate the ace up his grandfather's sleeve. He will be assigned an unconventional chaperone—Miss Caroline Townsend, a young, independent, well-educated, American woman with beautiful eyes and no patience for rogues.

The sparks fly from their first meeting as the pair squares off in a duel of wills. When passion and desire are added to the mix, they both battle to keep control as a dangerous seduction begins to unravel their lives and threaten their futures.

My Review
Summary 
Caroline has been sent a request from her grandfather's friend and business partner, to help him in a venture, and in return he will pay her a good amount of money, so that she could live the life she has always wanted, instead of teaching. Ashe has recently returned from India and suffered being imprisoned and ever since he has returned only wants to forget and put his past behind him. So he has lived a life in London has a full on rake, gambling and taking his pleasure wherever he can find it. But then his grandather forces him into a challenge, a bet of sorts. He will have to live for two weeks with no scandal of any sort attached to him, and will have a chaperone attached to his side to make sure that he behaves, or be removed from the will forever and be shunned from society. What he doesn't count on is having to resist his attraction to his new companion, whose opinionated and stubborn nature only draws him more to her. He doesn't understand how their constant arguments could be sensual in their own way. But when Caroline starts to share with him a unbridled passion, he is more than willing to share sensual delights with her, but what will be the cost?

My Thoughts 
Seduction Wears Sapphires is the second in the series, and this is the first time that I have read from this author. I hadn't heard many things about this author since I think she is a bit newer, but when I read the blurb, this story sounded like something that I would enjoy reading. I am not sure if it was me or if I was distracted or what, but I had the hardest time getting into it, until the last few chapters-which is where it really got interesting. I found the plot to be stable and secure, but I think maybe it was just the style of the author's writing, that just didn't get me interested enough. It was the type of story that you can relax with but not one you can fully engage with. It didn't stand out to me in any significant way and to say I was a bit disappointed is a understatement. I had high hopes for Seduction Wears Sapphires, and I am glad that I stuck with the story instead of putting it down, but I almost had to force myself at times to continue reading, where it came quite close to being a chore instead of a pleasure. I did like the basis for the story, and the characters were likable enough, it just didn't seem to have enough zest and spark to get me to fully enjoy it. I do think I plan on trying the others in the series, since I want to read the other connected books, maybe I will enjoy them more ( I do hope so), especially since after that this author does have potential. It may just be it just wasn't enough to reach out to me, hopefully I will get a chance to read more from this author and see what her other books are like compared to this one. Keeping the fingers crossed. :) Overall I found it to be a somewhat likeable read, that was full of flavor and sensuality and was very clever at times.

First Line 
The clipper ship's deck pitched hard, and Caroline's grip on the railing tightened until she couldn't feel her hands. 

Favorite Quote 
"You are an imperious and infuriating man, Mr.Blackwell."
"I'd apologize, but I think I should wait for just another moment."
"Another moment for what purpose?"
"For this."
He leaned over and, in an instance of pure impulse, kissed her. Instead of a tender first kiss, this was about reclamation and possession of the sweet delights he'd already sampled. 

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy 

Other Books In Series 
Revenge Wears Rubies
Ectsasy Wears Emeralds
Passion Wears Pearls
Obsession Wear Opals
Desire Wears Diamonds 

ARC Book Review-Lachlan's Bride

Lachlan's Bride
Highland Laird's Trilogy (2)
Kathleen Harrington
Avon
ARC E Book
Published April 30th 2013
317 Pages
Scottish Highlands Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780062226334
Author's Website 

Synopsis
He is Lachlan MacRath, laird and pirate. And he intends to be her lover…

Lady Francine Walsingham cannot believe this warrior is to be her escort into Scotland. It is whispered that Lachlan MacRath has magical powers…how else do you explain his success as a pirate? But trust him she must, for a treacherous plot is about to reveal all her secrets…and Francine has no choice but to act as his lover to keep her enemies at bay.

When Lachlan first sees Francine, the blonde beauty stirs his blood like no woman ever before. As luck would have it, they must now play the besotted couple so he can protect her…and Lachlan is determined to use all his seductive prowess to properly woo her into his bed.

My Review
Summary 
Lady Francine first takes notice of Lachlan when he steps into court, never has been seen such a virile man who takes her breath away. She also recognizes him as the Scottish Pirate and believes him to be a sorcerer. When it becomes known that he is to be her protector and escort to the wedding of the King of Scotland, she doesn't know if she will be able to resist his charm. Lachlan first notices Francine from the first moment he walks into court, the most beautiful lass. He is determined to show her the touch of a man, to seduce her in his bed before their journey is through. When he learns that there is a danger to Francine and her daughter he knows that he is the only one that can truly protect them and keep them from her. Even though their lives are in constant danger, Francine and Lachlan are forced to be together at all time, including in the same bedroom at night. Francine is seduced by his tender touches and fiery kisses that only inflame her body more and desire to be his forever.

The Hero (Lachlan MacRath)
Lachlan, has fought many battles, and as the second in the MacRath family, he is a very capable fighter, and lover as well. When Lachlan first see's Francine and her beauty both inside and out he is captivated. Lachlan has had to keep certain secrets from Francine in order to protect her, but knows he will have to reveal them eventually. He never thought that he would want to marry her or find her young daughter endearing.

The Heroine (Francine Walsingham)
Francine a widow, has no desire to find a love to warm her bed at night. She is content with her life in court, and her daughter at her side. Francine has certain secrets that must remain hidden from others else they would put her daughter at risk. When she first meets Lachlan, he makes her laugh and she feel's more free with him than she has with anyone. She knows that a match between them can't happen because of her relationship with the King of England, but her heart aches to have him for the rest of her life.

My Thoughts 
Lachlan's Bride is the second in the series, and this book took a while in the making from the first book. I haven't read anything from this author until now. I received this ARC from Edelweiss and Avon for a honest review. The one thing I had the hardest about reading this book, I think was the flow. Its the kind of read that is a comfortable read, but the first half of the book I had a hard time getting into. But I just knew I had to keep up with it, that I would enjoy it. Once I reached the second half of the book, I breathed a sigh of relief as I finally started to really enjoy it and was able to get into it fully. I definitely skimmed a bit in the first half unfortunately, but toward the end I started to enjoy it.  I found the story to have a strong plot with enough mystery and action and sensuality to satisfy your senses. The characters were well acclimated into the story, but Francine was my least favorite. Throughout the story there is so much focus with her believing that Lachlan is some kind of sorcerer. She is very supersiticious and I found it to be a bit distracting at times. I found Lachlan to be ever patient with her, plus being one super sexy hero that I wouldn't mind having at my side. One of the aspects I enjoyed about this book is the time and place this story takes place. We see the type of culture and what they had to amuse themselves. I enjoyed seeing how this author put together the story with a variety of aspects that made for a likeable read. Even though it wasn't my favorite read, I did somewhat like it, and have good things about her other books, so I do plan on reading her other books.


First Line 
Stretched flat on the blood soaked ground, Lachlan MacRath gazed up at the cloudless morning sky and listened to the exhausted moans of the wounded. 

Favorite Quote 
As she sailed past with her pert little nose in the air, Lachlan reached out and caught her in his arms. He slid his hand beneath the soft fold of her headdress, threaded his fingers through long silken curls, and imprisoned her head in his cupped palm.
"Sleep with me tonight, Lady Walsingham," he said hoarsely, "And I'll make you forget any other man you've ever known."

My Grade 
3 Blossoms


Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
The Maclean Groom


 
 

Book Review-The Wild Marquis

The Wild Marquis
The Burgundy Club (1)
Miranda Neville
Avon Publishing
Mass Market Paperback
Published March 2010
372 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-180870-8
Author's Website

Synopsis (Goodreads)
The Marquis of Chase is not a reputable man.

He is notorious for his wretched morals and is never received in respectable houses. The ladies of the ton would never allow him in their drawing rooms . . . though some of them have welcomed him into their bedchambers. Ejected from his father’s house at the age of sixteen, he now lives a life of wanton pleasure. So what could the Marquis of Chase possibly want with Juliana Merton, a lovely, perfectly upstanding shopkeeper with a mysterious past?

A moment’s indiscretion?

A night’s passion?

Or a lifetime of love?

Even the wildest rakes have their weaknesses . .

My Review

Summary 
Juliana, has worked hard to become a upstanding book seller and shopkeeper. She has had to do much to make sure no scandal could ever be attached to her, and hide a secret that could very well ruin her for the rest of her life. When she meets the Marquis of Chase, she knows that he is big trouble. The kind that would tempt her in a variety of wickedness and pure bliss. She knows she must stay away from him, and with warnings from all of her friends, she know she should be smart. However, she knows he has the money and connections to get her a certain book that she has been searching for, for quite some time. A book that could contain all the answers she could ever need about her roots and true parentage. When she and Chase strike up a bargain, she wonders if she has sealed a deal with the devil himself. Cain, when a teenager, was kicked out of his school by his father, and out of his home when accused of a action he didn't commit. But because of his love for his mother and sister, he knew he must leave. So he has spent his life making his own way, and even though no one in the Ton would accept him into their home, he doesn't care. He lives his life for pleasure and fun. When he meets Juliana he is instantly drawn to her. But will a few nights be enough to satisfy him or will he want forever?

The Hero (Cain, Marquis of Chase)
Cain is known as disreputable but has his own wealth and doesn't have to worry about much. But when he meets Juliana, he wants to be respectable again. When he was young, he suffered much at the hands of his father. His father loved to inflict pain, and would whip him on a regular basis. But then his father accused him of some dastardly act, and was kicked out of his own home. But when his sister comes to him asking him to be her guardian, he wants to be there for her. The only way he can do that properly is to marry, and the only woman he would ever marry is Juliana, but convincing her to agree might take some time and a lot of charm, he only hopes that is enough.

The Heroine (Juliana Merton)
Juliana has recently lost her husband. She respected him and cared for him, but didn't truly love him, but they had a good marriage until he was murdered in a Inn. Now she is a bookseller, and has a stable reputation, but she suspects someone may be after her. Juliana has doubted whether or not she was born on the wrong side of the blanket. She never knew her parents, they both died when she was born. But she is desperate to know the truth. So seeking a certain book,she knows she needs the Marquis's help. When he starts to show her to road down desire and passion, she had no idea how easily she could sucuumb to Cain and his tender touches that only inflame her more. But what she wants most is his love...

My Thoughts 
This is the first book I have read from this author. I have been wanting to read from her for quite some time now. But I hadn't gotten around to it until now. What drew me into the book was the blurb...and the cover too. But I just love a good disreputable rake that is utterly irresistable. I was surprised expected some amazing read, which turned out to be a little above average. It just didn't sing to me until the second half of the book. My usual rule is if I don't get into it 100 pages in, to just put it down. However I decided to try to push that limit a bit further. I am glad that I did however, because I did enjoy the last half of the book. That is where it got really good. The plot for all of the story was good, but there was just something about the beginning that I had the hardest time getting into. So it took me two days to read which it normally takes me one. I did enjoy the chemistry between Cain and Juliana and I felt like there was enough conflict to keep me interested. I felt like Juliana was a little to bland for me, she just didn't have as much spunk as I expected. Her reasons for resisting Cain I thought was a bit ridiculous at times, but she eventually pulled through and at the end of the book I started to like her LOL. Cain was totally intriguing in every way. He had the seductive appeal, but he also could be very sensitive at times, it just broke my heart to see him struggle throughout the story. Overall a interesting story, that I had a hard time getting into and it took a while, but once I did get into the story I enjoyed it. It didn't call out to me or make my toes curl, but it was a average enjoyable read. I do plan on reading more from this author, see what her other books are like.

First Line 
It was the most beautiful illuminated manuscript ever created.

Favorite Quote 
"Why do we have to wait until we get upstairs?"
"Because, Lady Chase, you have just become entirely respectable. I've never made love to an entirely respectable woman, but I'm told it needs to be done in a bed."
"Always?" she groused
He stopped and turned, framing her face in his hands, his irresistible smile slashing his cheeks. his eyes were oceans of humor and love, his voice a sensual fog that sent shivers through her.
"Don't worry, my love. I may be happily domesticated but I can safely promise I'll never be respectable."

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm 

Other Books In Series 
The Dangerous Viscount
The Amorous Education of Selia Seaton
Confessions From An Arranged Marriage

Book Review-The Viscount's Wicked Ways

The Viscount's Wicked Ways
Anne Mallory 
Avon Publishing
Mass Market Paperback 
Published April 2006
372 Pages
Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-087292-2
Author's Website

HE HAS A WAY WITH WOMEN ...

Thomas Ashe, the brooding Viscount Blackfield, is a man any lady would shun. But Patience Harrington, try as she might, has never been a proper lady. Her bumbled London season left her with no marital prospects and no recourse but to accept her father's invitation to travel to gloomy Blackfield Castle. Surely, spending a few nights in the presence of priceless antiques and a devilish viscount can't be as bad as facing the ton gossip.

Focused solely on his secret government project, Thomas cares little for the valuable antiques he's recently inherited. The troublesome young woman who has come to assess them, however, stirs his senses in every way. Patience is a distraction Thomas can ill afford --- a beautiful temptation that makes him ache with desire. For a spy is threatening to destroy all he has built, and Patience is hiding something. With so much at stake, Thomas must do whatever it takes to seduce the truth from Patience's lips before lives --- and his own heart --- are lost.

My Review
Summary 
Patience has come to Blackfield Castle, to catalogue Viscount Blackfield's antique collect. As daughter of a man that is obsessed with Antiquities, she has learned much. So along with her cousin, they head to Blackfield's home. When Patience first arrives, she is surprised by the current state of things. There is odd noises all hours of the day and night, some of the maids acting as if any object will attack them at will, and when she first meets the Viscount, she believes him to be a vampire. However, she knows that her mind is just playing tricks on her, even if he is arrogant and brooding enough to be one. When things start to really get interesting she decides to start to investigate the strange occurrences.   Thomas, senses that there is something strange about Patience. He suspects one of her party to be a french spy, trying to discover what he has managed to keep hidden so far. But when he finds her snooping around his castle, he thinks she is the spy, and despite the passion he feels for her...he will set out to prove her guilt and betrayal. Until love gets in the way...

The Hero ( Thomas Ashe)
Thomas, didn't have much positive raising as a child and lost his parents at a younger age, and has recently inherited a large cache of antiquities, but is secretly working on a project for the government, but of lately there has been attempts of spies to discover what secret project he has been working on. So when a group comes to assess his  newly acquired collection, he knows that one or more will be after his project, and he must stop at nothing to protect it, and find the one's that are threatening what he has worked so hard for.

The Heroine (Patience Harrington)
Patience, has never been what most would be called a "Proper Lady". Patience, has never had much finesse to socialize in London's circles. She says what is on her mind, and refuses to discuss the most boring topics like the weather and gossip. But then her ways get her in trouble, and she finds herself the center of gossip. So when her father sends her to Blackfield's Castle, she is more than happy to do so. But when she meets Thomas, he introduces her to a world of desire and passion, the likes of which she has never known.

My Thoughts 
Even though The Viscount's Wicked Ways, was a very enjoyable read, I felt like there was something lacking. It seemed like there were so many great qualities about the story, but it didn't fall into place very well. I really liked the playful romance that develops between Patience and Thomas. However I didn't feel the normal spark that I usually find in Mallory's books. There was a strong plot that is put into the story, however there wasn't a smooth flow in the story. I really had very high expectations for this one, especially after reading the blurb and looking at the cover, I expected a remarkable read that kept my attention all through the story. However I found myself putting it down quite a few times, because I didn't really get fully into the story. Although there were a few aspects of the story that I did enjoy. First is I did like the story line, I always love a good espionage romance, and even though this one seemed a bit off, it was still fun to see how it turns out. I did like the imagination that the author uses in the book. Overall a enjoyable read, but not a fantastic one. One to relax into, but not one to stun the reader into falling in love with it. 

First Line 
Patience Harrington shivered with excitement and anticipation as she stared at the massive doors adorned with pointed crowns, sinister ravens, and trailing ivy. 

Favorite Quote 
The Viscount let go of her and leaned negligently against the door frame. "And why would I do that? Of what do I need to take heed?" He leaned forward, his lips inches away from hers. "This is my domain, and I can take what I want..."

My Grade 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating
Warm

Book Review-Sins Of A Highland Devil

Sins Of A Highland Devil
 Highland Warriors (1)
Sue Ellen Welfonder
Forever
Paperback
Published January 2011
373 Pages
Scottish Highlands Historical Romance
ISBN 978-0-446-56178-5

Synopsis (Goodreads)
The first book in the Highland Warriors trilogy, in which three heroes make a pact to insure that a rival clan does not take over their Glen of Many Legends. At the same time, three women plot to marry these heroes to insure peace.

In SINS OF A HIGHLAND DEVIL, James Cameron is concerned when the King's decree states all three neighboring clans must have a battle to the death in order to lay official claim to the scared Glen of Many Legends. James attempts to make a pact with the heads of the other clans to fight this decree. But he ends up fighting his own fierce desire when coming head-to-head with Lady Catriona of the opposing MacDonald clan, who has her own plan for peace.

My Review
Summary 
When the King's man comes to 'Glen Of Many Legends', to inform three clans that have been warring for years, that the time has come to resolve all matters. He informs all three Lairds of each clan that they will have to meet and battle and fight for one clan to reign over the Glen. When Lady Catriona hears along with her brother Alasdair, of these summons, so is full of rage. Catriona is very passionate about her home and her clan and views the other two clans as enemies.   But she also knows that the King's orders will mean the death of many. James Cameron has always had a firm belief in knowing that the Glen belongs to him and his clan and not the other two clans. When he is informed, he is outraged, knowing what this will mean. He knows he will have to do all that is necessary to secure this place as his. Then he finds a forbidden love in the arms of Catriona MacDonald, who even though is his enemy, she is also a woman he finds that he can't resist. Her passion and desire only ignites the fire within him, and even though he must prepare his men for the battle to come, he also can't resist the fiery storm in Catriona.

The Hero (James Macdonald)
James, has always cared deeply for Catriona, but has never wanted to admit it. He met her years ago when he had come across her on his land, and teased her to the point of  her running in fear. Now years later, he still feel a passion for her and a fiery attraction that only ignites the small flame of desire he feels for her.  As Laird it it necessary for him to make difficult choices, but he also knows that no matter what he may feel for her, he knows he might never be able to have her as his own, even if its his deepest desire.

The Heroine 
 Even though she wants to resist, Catriona is strongly attracted to James, even if she wants to prove to him how capable she is to fight him on her own terms. Catriona, sister to the Laird of her clan, knows much about the Glen. When she first hears of the summons by the King, all she wants to do is get rid of the King's man in a most violent way, but surpresses the urge to do so. When she encounters James Cameron once more after all these years, she wants to resist the temptation he offers.

My Thoughts 
Sins Of A Highland Devil is the first installment in the Highland Warriors trilogy. This trilogy is about three women who make a pact with each other to defend their homes and each other, and three proud highlanders willing to fight with everything they have to protect their clans. In the past I have just loved every book that I have had a chance to read by this author. Even though I did enjoy the plot and the story for the most part, I also didn't enjoy it as much as I thought. The main aspect that I had a hard time with was the romance. I felt like it was out of place in this story. I didn't really see much of a love connection, or how it could really happen. There was definitely many heated moments, some that were very sensual. However I didn't see a whole lot of a love story. I think maybe my expectations may have been too high, and so I ended up feeling a bit disappointed. There were times that I felt lost through the story as I was reading, and I didn't see much of a smooth flow of the story. I did however really like the characters, both James and Catriona were priceless. Both warriors in their own way, and willing to fight with every breath. I loved seeing them together, and seeing them challenge each other was unforgettable. I did enjoy the way Welfonder weaves a magical story set in a beautiful Glen that seemed mystical at times. It was also action packed, and swoon worthy at various times, but overall I think it just didn't fully satisfy me. However there were quite a few things that I did like about this one, so I do plan on reading the rest of the series.


My Favorite Quote 
 But he'd whirled her into a place she didn't know, where her heart thumped crazily and all she could think of was the emotion rising inside her. It felt so right, so thrilling to be alone with him. 

My Grade On This Book 
3 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In The Series 
Temptation Of A Highland Scoundrel
Seduction Of A Highland Warrior
 

Book Review- Let Love Find You

Let Love Find You
Reid Family (4)
Johanna Lindsey
E Book
Gallery Books
Published June 2012
368 Pages
Historical Romance
ISBN 1451633270

Lady Amanda Locke has struck out miserably in her two Seasons on the marriage mart. Beautiful, titled, and charming – even if she does talk a bit too much, Amanda doesn’t understand why love eludes her. Even her father, the Duke of Norford, is so perplexed he is prepared to take drastic measures to ensure his daughter’s happiness. Now, as Amanda begins her third Season, she gets a little help from Cupid, a darkly handsome horse breeder whose knowledge of basic animal attraction has guided him in arranging more than a few successful matches between the young ladies and gentlemen of the ton. Hired by Amanda’s family, Devin Baldwin produces results for Amanda and soon she is happy to be courted by one of his clients, the dashing Viscount Altone. In order to secure Amanda’s match to a nobleman obsessed with horse racing, Devin must teach Amanda how to overcome her fear of horses. But as Devin shows her the joys of riding, hunting, and racing, will their own hearts run astray as Amanda finds herself falling in love with Cupid himself?  

Summary:
 Amanda, has gone two seasons without finding a husband, and even though she is beautiful, she is looking for something special and unique: true love. However she wonders if she will ever find it, as does her family. Amanda is drawn toward a brute of a man, a horse breeder, who has recently started in the Ton's circles. However he is too rude and blunt for her tastes, so she sets her sights on someone else who has a love for something that is her greatest fear: Horses. So Devin, is her instructor on overcoming her fear, but in the midst of it, at fierce attraction grows between Amanda and Devin, and before they realize it, they are both falling hard for each other...but will their love be enough???


The Hero (Devin Baldwin)
Devin, has a deep love for horses and has made a profitable stable and business, despite the way life was handed out to him. Abandoned by his father, and not having a strong mother influence, he has had to work his way up on his own, but he still wonders who his father really is? And why it seems like there is someone out for his life? In the midst of all the intrigue Amanda enters his life, and even though at first he thinks she is too stuck up for her own good, he sees that there is alot more to her than on the surface, and her amusing personality only captures his attention and before he knows it....he knows he will never be the same.


The Heroine (Amanda Locke)
Amanda, used to love riding, but when she had a terrible experience when she was young, she has had a incredible fear of horses, and has never been able to overcome that fear. But when she meets a young lord who captures her attention she knows she must find a way to overcome that particular fear. So with the help of Devin she works toward her goal...however she never imagined that instead of falling in love with the handsome Lord she finds that her heart is leaning towards someone that is totally wrong for her in some ways....but totally Right for her in the important ones!!


My Thoughts 
Let Love Find You is the fourth in the Reid Family series and even though I have enjoyed all of Lindsey's books, except lately....I don't know what it is....I feel at times it isn't even her. I have read her previous books plenty of times...but this one just didn't reach out to me really at all. I had a hard time really getting into the book. The story line was great, I really loved the layout of the plot and I liked the characters but it just didn't ring out to me as a fantastic romance as I know Johanna Lindsey can produce. It may just be me since I haven't been reading a lot lately, however even though this book had some admirable qualities it was also lacking something vital: Depth....it seemed like everything was on the surface, and there wasn't any substance that grabs hold of the readers attention. I am sorry to give it such a low rating....but it just didn't fit into my standards for a good and solid romance....:(


My Grade On This Book 
3 Blossoms


Other Books In The Series 
The Heir
Devil Who Tamed Her
A Rogue Of My Own

Book Review-If You Dare

If You Dare
MacCarrick Brothers (1)
Kresley Cole
Pocket Books
Paperback
Published May 2005
348 Pages

High in the Pyrenees, a band of mercenaries led by Courtland MacCarrick wages war for General Reynaldo Pascal. When Court turns on the evil general, Pascal orders him killed but Court narrowly escapes and exacts revenge by kidnapping Pascal's exquisite Castilian fiancée.

Can she deny her passions?

Lady Annalía Tristán Llorente despises her towering, barbaric captor almost as much as she does Pascal. Her inexplicable attraction to the Highlander only fuels her fury. But nothing will stop her from returning to Pascal -- for if she doesn't wed him, she signs her brother's death warrant, as well as her own.

Can there be love between them?

From the moment Court discovers that Anna's prim façade masks a fiery, brave lass, his heart's ensnared, and he dares to defy the curse that has shadowed his life -- to walk with death or walk alone. But Pascal vows that he'll hunt the two, never stopping until he's destroyed them both

Summary:
 Court, has been waging against a evil tyrant, General Pascal. Then he is almost killed and escapes and is found by Annalia, who nurses him back to health. When Annalia hears that Pascal has her brother in captivity and in return for his life she is required to marry him. However before she agrees to it...Court takes her away once finding out her connection to Pascal, hoping to exact justice against Pascal. However what Court never expected was to start falling for beautiful Annalia, whose fiery spirit only increases his attraction to her...and before he knows it, he finds himself in love with her and willing to do whatever to make her happy.

The Hero (Courtland MacCarrick)
Court, along with his two brothers are cursed, and knows that it would be wrong to ever bind a woman to him...for it would only bring misery and pain. So he tries to maintain his distance from his siren of a captive, only the passion he feels for her in undeniable and he knows that she is slowly creeping into his heart and soul....and nothing can save him or her.

The Heroine (Annalia Llorente)
Annallia, has gone through much in her young life...but now her brother is the prisoner of a demented and very evil man, who would easily kill him. However when she finds a injured man, and takes him to her homes so he can recuperate, since her caring soul can't refuse someone injured....she never expected her life to take twists and turns as they do when she is near Court, but never thought that she would fall in love with the man who has taken her prisoner.

My Thoughts 
If You Dare, is the first in the MacCarrick Brothers Series....and as much as I enjoyed If You Deceive, I had such a difficult time reading this one. I finished it for sure...but it did take a little while...and there was inconsistency throughout the whole story...I think if it had run more smoothly I may have enjoyed it more...however despite that the characters were at times likable but I had a hard time with Court and Annalia...it seemed like the whole story apart from the end was all about how they fight with each other, and I couldn't see how they could even fall in love with each other....but I did enjoy the ending most of all...however It was far from my favorite from this author...

My Grade On This Book 
3 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series 
If You Desire
If You Deceive

Book Review-Heat Seeker

Heat Seeker
Elite Ops and Tempting Seals
Lora Leigh
St Martins,
334 Pages
Published Sep 2009
Mystery Suspense Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:
A former Elite Ops captain with a dark past meets his match in a female ex-CIA agent who’s dead-set on revenge. And this time, the action—and the attraction—is more adrenaline-pumping than ever…

DARE TO DESIRE
John Vincent has always led a life of danger, and now he has every reason to want to remain as dead as the obituary in the Australian papers had proclaimed him to be. He’d left nothing behind in the life he had once led—except for one woman, and one night of unforgettable passion. Now, both will return to haunt him…

SEDUCE TO DESTROY
Bailey Serborne is still tormented by a past she can’t change and a man she hasn’t been able to forget. A man who was supposed to dead.. But now, a stroke of fate has revealed that sometimes, a woman is given a second chance to heal her heart—and exact the sweetest revenge…

My Review:
John Vincent has been proclaimed dead by all those who knew him. Now he has a new life, as a member of a elite ops, where all members on the team are dead to the world and new people. In John's previous life he met the beautiful and sensual Bailey Serborne, who mixed up his emotions, and was the one thing he truly regretted hurting as a effect of his previous "fake" death. Bailey Serborne, is our for revenge for the death of her family, then she meets John Vincent who is so alike to a man she once knew and cared deeply for. As events progress where danger and intrigue escalate so does the desire and passion they have for each other, to the point of explosive heat.  What John or Bailey never realized was the love and passion they once shared still exists strongly between them, and if they embrace it they will only be stronger as a team.

Heat Seeker is a book that was written as a part of two series, which I thought was fascinating and somewhat unique. Heat Seeker is part of the Elite Ops series and the Tempting Seals series, although these two series are very alike. Heat Seeker is probably the most explosively erotically book that I have read from Lora Leigh. I have enjoyed reading her Breeds series, but this Elite Ops series seems to focus more on the sexual desires between the two characters than the plot or the romantic and emotional relationship between Bailey and John. It does have a intriguing plot though, where the hero "John" is another person and looks different than who he was before, yet Bailey is able to see through the exterior and find the inner man that once was claimed dead. Although it did have some exciting intrigue and danger elements to the book, it is far from my favorite from this author. Since I enjoy more of the emotional side of the love story, this however just seemed to emulate Lust full blown. Although it was enjoyable, throughout the whole of it, I just kept feeling like there wasn't much connection except sexual, and I was expecting more from this one.  Lora Leigh always has a highly sexual side to her books, but it seems to me in this series it overlaps too much and there isn't much of a plot left. But if you like Lora Leigh's other series than you will enjoy this one, it still had some good elements about it, that did keep me on edge at time and there was a certain edge of mystery that leaves you breathless with questions of what Really will happen between the two, but it just wasn't as consistent in flow as some of her other books have been in the past.

My Grade On The Book
3 Blossoms

Other Books In The Serie(s)
Elite Ops 
Wild Card
Maverick
Blackjack
Tempting Seals
Reno's Chance
Dangerous Game
For Maggie's Sake
Hidden Agenda's
Killer Secrets
Atlanta Heat
Wild Card
Maverick
Heat Seeker
Black Jack   

Book Review-Penlope & Prince Charming

Penelope And Prince Charming
Nvengaria
Jennifer Ashley
Leisure, 373 Pages,
Published April 2006
Regency Romance
ISBN: 0-8439-5606-2

Synopsis
THE PLAYBOY PRINCE


His blue eyes beguiled. His muscular form could have satisfied any fantasy. He had a delicious foreign accent-and to top it off, he was royalty! What woman would dare refuse the most sought-after lover in Europe? Miss Twice-a-Jilt Penelope Trask, that's who. And, unfortunately for Damien, marrying Penelope was the only way to inherit his kingdom. Good thing this enchantingly infuriating woman didn't seem completely immune to his many charms. The passionate way she returned his kisses told Damien he wasn't the only one head over heels. But wooing was difficult amid assassination attempts, wild magic, and desire so strong it threatened t to overwhelm him every time they touched. Why had no one mentioned the road to happily-ever-after was so difficult?

My Review:
Penelope Trask, has been jilted twice in the past, and is determined not to have her heart broken a third time. Penelope lives in a home with her mother, soon to be step father, and soon to be step sister; all of whom she is dearly close to. Prince Damien of Nvengaria is the most sought after man in Europe. Every woman would feel grateful to be chose to be his bride. However once he meets Penelope he realizes that there is only one woman that he wants to be with, it will be a challenge to convince her of that however. Damien is informed however, that Penelope is the only woman that he can marry to regain his country, kingdom, and his people. So Damien goes about convincing her how important it is that they get married and go through all the rituals. Damien not knowing if magic of the legend is at work or just his own heart, knows he is falling heads over heels in love with Penelope. Penelope finds it hard to believe that they could fall in love so fast. She desires to be wanted as a woman, and not someone to get his rights to his kingdom. However, with much thought on the matter, Penelope agree's to marry this handsome rogue of a prince. They then journey toward his home Nvengaria and she leaves all that she has ever known. Both Damien and Penelope start to journey to a world filled with magic, love, and adventure.

Although I enjoyed reading Penelope and Prince Charming, I felt there was something missing throughout the whole of the book. I couldn't put my finger on it, but it just didn't flow as much as I though it would. I have loved reading Jennifer Ashley, and I will admit I was a bit disappointed with this one. Although the characters were well developed I found their relationship wasn't as connected as I thought it should have been. Other than that it was a well written story with plenty of romance, sensuality and adventure to satisfy you.

My Grade For This Book
3 Blossoms

Other Books In The Series:
Mad, Bad Duke
Highlander Ever After
The Longest Night

Book Review-When Love Awaits

When Love Awaits
Johanna Lindsey
Avon Romance,
343 Pages,
June 1986
Medieval Historical Romance

Synopsis:
Lady Leonie, the exquisite mistress of Pershwick, recoiled in horror. Cruelly pledged to the dreaded Rolfe of Crewel, she knew that her life was indeed over. But when she met the dark, magnificent, man who came to claim her...when she felt his burning caresses igniting her soul... all fears faded like a dream.
Yet the terrible demands of past hatreds amt misunderstandings would tear Leonie and Rolle apart again and again. Until in the blazing glory of passion's realm, they learned the truth that only love can bring.

My Review:
Lady Leonie grew up without a mother, her father remarried, and her step mother ends up controlling everything in the household when she drugs her father enough to appear drunk. No one is aware of this. Leonie, one day curses the "Black Wolf" whom she is afraid of. The peasants hear her, and since they are very loyal to her start wreaking havoc on Rolfe; minor incidents but enough so that he wants to take action. He decides to marry Lady Leonie to stop these incidents. Lady Leonie refuses to marry him at first, but her step mother takes action, and has one of her loyal servants beat her until she is black and blue; so that she will consent to marry him. She wears a veil to cover herself up, so no one will notice what has happened.

During their wedding day, they barely say two words to each other. On their wedding night, Rolfe touches her, and she reacts in pain and accidently cuts him with a knife. Lets just say things don't start out as they imagined it. Weeks later, he finds out beautiful his wife really is, and and wants to reside with him permanently when before he would have preferred her distanced away from him. From the moment that they first kissed, he sensed that there was something different about Leonie, and knows that there is a growing passion developing between them.

Leonie, is a amazing woman and was very aptly descripted in When Love Awaits. Leonie is strong, responsible, beautiful and smart. She handles the situations that she is dealt with. As her sensual relationship develops with Rolfe, so does her emotional one and she finds herself falling in love with him. There is one problem that she can never get over, and doesn't know if she will be able to get Rolfe to understand along with her. Rolfe has fought many battle, he has over seven keeps, close friends with the current King of England, his ward is his mistress who runs his household, and decides to marry Lady Leonie out of revenge. However after living with her and their powerful passionate embraces, he senses something growing between them that far outweighs desire.

This was a average read though, I  didn't enjoy it as much as I thought that I would. The characters didn't seem to connect, and it seemed to not flow smoothly. I found myself frustrated throughout the whole book; I mean I enjoyed reading it, but there also many moments where I just wanted to pull my hair out!!! The story although had a good start, didn't seem continue in that same pattern, it seemed to flow unnaturally and not to my liking.

My Grade For This Book:
3 Blossoms