Throwback Thursday (4) The Lord Next Door

Throwback Thursday is a new meme hosted by Buried Under Romance and Love Saves The World, and since I just love Historical Romance I decided to participate.

What Is Throwback Thursday? 
Traditionally, Throwback Thursday celebrates nostalgia, asking participants to post a personal photo or image from their past--usually from 5 to 10 years ago. There are a lot of book blogs that also do a book related Throwback Thursday.

 Here Are The Rules: 
1. It must be posted on a Thursday.
2. It must be a historical romance novel published before October 3, 2008

The handsome, deceiving lord was not the man Victoria believed him to be...

Victoria must wed...and immediately!

To rescue her family from financial ruin, lovely Victoria Shelby has no choice but to marry. Her options for a bridegroom are limited...until she remembers the shy servant boy next door. Then she discovers that her childhood friend is actually Viscount Thurlow—ruthless businessman, future earl, and a man whose family is shrouded in scandal!

After two rejected marriage proposals, David Thurlow needs a wife who will give him an heir, someone who will not only overlook his past but also be above reproach. Victoria is the ideal candidate—quiet, unassuming, and in desperate need of funds. But even as she strives to be the perfect wife, her calm demeanor masks a shocking secret...one that is overshadowed by David's slow, heated lessons in the art of seduction that threaten to transform a "convenient" marriage into a torrid and passionate affair.

Why The Lord Next Door?
This is one of my favorites of this author. I did love the conflict involved in the story. The romance is charming and sweet. Definitely this story is in the category of a re read.I do think this series is some of the best of Callen's best work.
 

Book Review-King of Sword and Sky

King of Sword and Sky
Tairen Soul (3)
C.L. Wilson
Avon Books
Paperback
Published September 2008
467 Pages
Fantasy Romance
ISBN:978-0-06-202300-1
Authors Website

Synopsis
Only one enemy could destroy them.

Only one love could unite them.

Only together could they lead their people to victory.

Returning to the Fading Lands with his Celierian truemate, Rain discovers a dissension among the most powerful members of his own council. As the Eld plot their next deadly strike, Ellysetta struggles to master her powerful magic and discover how to save the tairen, while Rain confronts open challenge to his rule and prepares to lead the Fey army to war.

My Review
Rain and Ellysetta have left Celieria, knowing that their enemy is going to attack soon. Ellie is sad to be leaving her family and the only life she has ever known. Ellie knows her destiny is to save the Fey, even though she has no idea how she will be able to do it. Rain, as the Fey King, knows that he must do everything to save his people. When they arrive to the Fading Lands, Rain is determined to show Ellie how to access her magic. Rain begins to show Ellysetta the Fading Lands, the Tairen who accept her, in more ways than they ever excepted his first wife. At first the trust between the Fey and Ellie are shady at best, they don't know what to make of her. They respect her because of her bond to Rain, but they don't trust the dark magic that is stamped on Ellyetta, though she is innocent. When it becomes clear that the kits of the Tairen are dying, Ellie and Rain start working on discovering the reason why. Ellysetta's power starts to become even more pronounced before, and Ellie starts to discover more about herself and her abilities. She desires to refine them, so she will be able to help the Tairen and the Fey. To prove that she only wants to save them from the dark magic that threatens everything they hold dear.

King of Sword and Sky is the third installment in the Tairen Soul series. I have heard of this author for years, but not until recently did I decide to try it out. The first two books I just fell in love with instantly. King of Sword and Sky goes alot more into depth, and there is quite a bit that happens in the story. As it begins you see how the difficulty that Ellie has even from first entering the Fading Lands. Even though she has a Dark Mage marker stamped on her, Ellie has more power than anyone knows. With the protection of the Fading Lands, Ellie and Rain start to train and search for a way to save both the Tairen and the Fey. The story is pretty complex in this one, and I don't want to reveal too much for those that haven't had a chance to read this one yet. The plot has many twists and turns that only hold the reader enthralled through the whole story. As you go through the story, you see that the focus is on Ellie, and how she works on refining her abilities so she can save the Kitlings of the Tairen who keep dying. The relationship between Rain and Ellie becomes ever more stronger than ever before. The faith that Rain has in Ellie is precious, and how protective he is of her, despite how his people distrust her. Certain truths are revealed from the eye of Truth, that makes the relationship between Rain and his people even less trustworthy than before. But with a battle up ahead soon, Rain and his people will need to work together to defeat a enemy that only desires to destroy everything.

Rain and Ellysetta are charming characters, and I couldn't help but love them even more. The bond they have is strengthened even more in this story than the first two books. There is quite a bit that goes on, that the challenges and the multiple conflicts that Rain and Ellie are faced with only bring them even closer.  Rain becomes more Alpha Male pronounced in this book. Way more protective and possessive than you see in previous books. I enjoyed how he handles the situations they are put in. There is quite a bit of intensity at times, and Ellie for the most part, just accepts it. Ellysetta, I enjoyed seeing this heroine face the conflict even more than Rain. She has much more against her at times, and she has this inner strength that I admired from the beginning. She tends to handle everything with grace and patience.

Overall I really enjoyed how well everything is put together, and the way the plot proceeds. A exciting and enticing story of a world where good and evil battle. A dazzling and emotionally woven tale of love, destiny, and passion. POWERFUL!!!

First Line 
Two primages and sixty of my Black Guard slaughtered and yet somehow the pair of you survived. While my prize escaped."

Favorite Quote
"Ve sha kem'tani. Kem'san. Kem'reisa" You are my mate. My Heart. My soul. With hands and words and lips and teeth, he claimed her, declaring possession, marking her with his touch, his kiss, his breath, the scent of his skin rubbing her with hot friction, singing to her soul. 

My Grade 
5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Lord of the Fading Lands
Lady of Light and Shadows
Queen of Song and Souls
Crown of Crystal Flame
 

WWW Wednesday (14) Waiting On Wednesday (80)

Hosted by Should Be Reading. To participate in this feature, you just have answer these three simple questions:
What are you currently reading?
 What did you recently finish reading? 
What do you think you'll read next? 

What Are You Currently Reading?

 What Did You Recently Finish Reading?

What Do You Plan To Read Next?

   

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine,that spotlights upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating.This week I’m waiting on, Coming Out January 24 2014

In the first in Tessa Dare's captivating Castles Ever After series, a mysterious fortress is the setting for an unlikely love . . .

As the daughter of a famed author, Isolde Ophelia Goodnight grew up on tales of brave knights and fair maidens. She never doubted romance would be in her future, too. The storybooks offered endless possibilities.

And as she grew older, Izzy crossed them off. One by one by one.

Ugly duckling turned swan?
Abducted by handsome highwayman?
Rescued from drudgery by charming prince?

No, no, and… Heh.

Now Izzy’s given up yearning for romance. She’ll settle for a roof over her head. What fairy tales are left over for an impoverished twenty-six year-old woman who’s never even been kissed?

This one.

Teaser Tuesday (56) Top Ten Tuesday (13) Top Ten Covers I Wish I Could Redesign

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme that I have just discovered, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading Anyone can play along! Just do the following: •Grab your current read •Open to a random page •Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others! Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like.

"I think you look upon this Fey more favorably than he deserves, Kem'san."
"Nei, I see him plainly enough." She laid her palm against his chest. "And I love the Fey I see."
When she gazed at Rain with such unwavering surety, he always saw a different reflection of himself shining from her eyes. 

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme was created and hosted at The Broke and the Bookish. Each week there will post a new Top Ten list that one of the bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All you have to do is link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers. So Come and Join in the Fun!! :)

 Top Ten Covers I Wish I Could Redesign
1. Savage Dream

2. An Original Sin 

3. Night Magic

4. Dark Hunger

5. Slave of the Outlands

6.Got Fangs?

7. More Than Magic

 

Quickie Book Review-Have You Any Rogues?

Have You Any Rogues?
Rymes With Love (2.5)
Elizabeth Boyle
Avon Impulse
Novella
Published November 12 2013
50 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN:  9780062322883
Authors Website

Synopsis 
The Seldons and Dales have been mortal enemies for centuries, but that hasn't stopped the roguish Crispin, Viscount Dale and the impetuous Lady Henrietta Seldon from waging their own battle … of the heart. Every stray glance, every chance encounter threatens to reveal the secret passion that keeps drawing them together.

But finally after years of flirting with disaster, Crispin and Henrietta find themselves locked in a wine cellar, and now there is no denying the love and loyalties that have lured them and torn them apart time and time again. Will this one last chance, this tempting night of desire be the one that ignites a fire that will never be extinguished, no matter the price?

My Review
This is just a quickie review, especially considering that this book took me about 45 minutes to read. I knew it wouldn't take very long to read, so I just read it last night right before I went to bed. Have You Any Rogues is a very interesting take on a "Romeo and Juliet" theme.  The majority of the book involves flashbacks, and sometimes I didn't mind, but others I got a bit frustrated with it a bit. I am not a huge fan of flashbacks, but I did understand by the end why the author put all the flashbacks in. The characters were interesting, through the flashbacks you see how they almost get their HEA but something disrupts their trust in each other, and boy this heroine got married quite a bit. I did enjoy the ending and the reconciliation between them. I do love the theme of the most recent series by this author. It had a charming quality to the story, and I loved the way the story turned out. I do plan on reading more of this author, because I am fascinated with her writing style. Even though it had a couple aspects to the story I didn't like so much, overall a fun romance that will wet your appetite.

My Grade 
3.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
Along Came A Duke
And The Miss Ran Away Wit The Rake
If Wishes Were Earls 
 

Its Monday! What Are You Reading? (54)

This is a great weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey. We simply post what we finished reading over the the last week, what we plan on reading this week, etc .

Books I Read This Past Week 
Home For The Holidays- My Review
Tall Dark and Wolfish-My Review
One Night With The Laird-My Review
Then Comes Marriage My Review
Temptation and Twilight-My Review
Lady of Light and Shadows-My Review
Surprising Lord Jack-My Review
Lord of Fading LandsMy Review

Currently Reading 

  Whats Up Next

Short Book Reivew-Home For The Holidays

Home For The Holidays
Night Huntress (6.5)
Jeaniene Frost
Avon
E Book
Published November 2013
96 Pages
Paranormal Romance
ISBN  9780062322043
Authors Website

Synopsis
Tis the season to join Cat and Bones for some holiday cheer in this Night Huntress novella by USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Jeaniene Frost.

They were looking forward to a normal holiday—at least as "normal" as it gets for vampires Cat and Bones and their otherworldly friends and family. But their yuletide plans are shattered when a mysterious stranger shows up and reveals long-buried secrets that threaten to take a bite out of their holiday cheer … and lives.

My Review
When I heard some outstanding reviews on this novella, I knew I had to get it. Jeaniene Frost has such a talent in this world that she has created. I have always loved Bones and Cat, and I enjoyed seeing a short story involving them which I found to be a good preparation for her next book Up From The Grave. It is set around late november, which is a good setting for the upcoming holidays. Cat and Bones are planning on having a get together with all their friends for Christmas, however when a stranger claiming to have a connection to Bones, Cat becomes suspicious after Bones and many of their friends act strange and unlike themselves. Cat will have to use every ability and strength to get to the bottom of it and defeat the enemy that wants to destroy them all. Normally I am not a big fan of novellas, but there are times when an author meets every expectation, and Frost excels. Even though it was under 100 pages, it almost felt like the size of a novel. There was no feeling of the story being rushed. The plot was engaging and the characters, as always, delightful. A Incredible addition to the Night Huntress series. WOW!!! 

My Grade 
5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Halfway to the Grave
One Foot in the Grave
At Grave's End
Destined For An Early Grave
This Side Of The Grave
One Grave At A Time
Up From The Grave
 

Book Review-Tall,Dark, and Wolfish

Tall Dark and Wolfish
Westfield Wolves (2)
Lydia Dare
Sourcebooks Casablanca
Paperback
Published May 2010
387 Pages
Scottish Highlands Paranormal Romance
ISBN:978-1-4022-3695-2
Authors Website

Synopsis 
He's lost the most important part of himself...

Lord Benjamin Westfield is a powerful werewolf—until one full moon when he doesn't change. His life now shattered, he rushes off to Scotland in search of the healer who can restore his inner beast, only to find she's not at all what he expected...

She would make him whole, if she could...

Young, beautiful witch Elspeth Campbell will do anything to help anyone who calls upon her healing arts. Then Lord Benjamin shows up, and she suddenly discovers she may need him even more than he needs her... 

My Review
Benjamin Westfield is a werewolf and couldn't ever imagine losing his wolf. Then one night under the full moon, he doesn't change and is at a loss as to what to do. He feels as if he has lost a huge part of himself. When he starts to investigate and research he learns of a healer in the highlands of Scotland who might be able to bring his wolf back. So he heads up to Edinburgh. Elspeth Campbell is a witch and her focus is the healing arts. She is a vital part of a coven of five witches , as close as sisters. When one of her fellow witches has a vision of a dangerous wolf that will come and take her away. When Elspeth first takes notice of Benjamin, she is charmed and instantly drawn to him. She doesn't see danger from Ben she sees a man who is respectful and tender toward her. When she learns of his ailment and that he is actually seeking her , she only desires to heal him so his wolf may be restored. When her coven sisters try to interfere in the intimate relationship that is forming between herself and Benjamin she knows where her heart lies.

Tall Dark and Wolfish is the second book in the Westfield series. Ever since I first started reading this author I fell in love with her writing from the very beginning. There is such a tender and strong connection between the characters from the very beginning. When Benjamin and Elspeth first meet, the instant attraction between them is obvious and they don't shy away from it, they embrace it. You see how each of them need love and I enjoyed seeing Lydia Dare taking the unique setting and the way the plot unravels. There is a slight mystery, a bit of a conflict trying to get Benjamin's wolf back, but I found this story to be a poignant and sweet read. I enjoyed seeing how Benjamin handles the other coven witches. They definitely put him through a series of tests and he comes out on top and handles their assaults with patience. 

I found that I liked the relationship between Benjamin and Elspeth. Elspeth is a sweet heroine, she doesn't hide her feeling from Benjamin. I found her to be one of my favorite heroines. She can be strong willed when she is fighting for what she wants. But I love the gentle like quality she has about her. Benjamin is a mix between dominant wolf and yet has a gentle side when it comes to Elspeth. Even though he is determined to find his wolf, Elspeth becomes his top priority. There is a couple of misunderstandings that occur between them, and you see how stubborn they both can be. However I found it quite amusing and I loved the outcome of them working it out in the end. 

Overall I couldn't help but admire the way the author puts this story together. It is always fun seeing how she blends in the historical setting with the paranormal of shifters and witches. A unique mixture of in depth characters, romantic setting, a rich plot and a charming love story. 

First Line 
If Elspeth Campbell revealed how much she wanted to leave the cold, damp cave, her coven sisters would surely think she was mad. 

Favorite Quote 
I'll never let ye be, Ben. I plan ta claim ye as my Lycan mate this night. And every day from this moment on. 

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
A Certain Wolfish Charm
The Wolf Next Door
The Taming of the Wolf
The Wolf Who Loved Me
Wolfishly Yours

Lusting For Covers (91) After The Scandal

Lusting for Covers is a meme found on TBQ so come and join in on this fun meme!!! 1- Take the graphic (left) to use on your post. Remember to give credit to the original host (TBQ). 2- Choose your own book cover that you've fallen in "lust" with in the past week. It can be new, old, a reprint, or even a book that is not yet out-- it's all up to you! If you find a cover that catches your eye, then showcase it on your blog, and let others see the pretty covers out there. 3- Copy the direct link to your own L4C post into the comment section on my post (when in doubt, use this link and then scroll down to find the post), and allow others to come and see what you picked! (OPTIONAL): 4- Besides posting the picture of the book cover you chose, it's nice to provide the book summary, title, author, or a website link for the book. It's not required, but it can help you readers' to add more books to their own list! A brief "Why I choose this cover" is also appreciated, but not required

In English society, the rules of engagement have stood the test of time. Until a Reckless Bride falls deeply, scandalously in love…

CAN AN INDECENT PROPOSAL

When Lady Claire Jellicoe agreed to a walk in the moonlight, she never imagined her titled companion might have brutal motives. Nor could she have dreamed up such a brave rescue by the most unexpected savior of all: an inscrutable nobleman with a daring plan of escape—and a deliciously tempting embrace…

LEAD TO EVERLASTING LOVE?

Timothy Evans, the Duke of Fenmore, has palmed more treasures than he can count. Even for a man who grew up thieving in London’s stews, a stolen bride should be beyond the pale. But Fenmore won’t let scandal ruin the spirited beauty’s reputation. And now that she’s stolen his heart, how can he ever let her go…?

On My Wishlist (56)

On My Wishlist is a fun weekly event hosted by Book Chick City and runs every Saturday. It's where I list all the books I desperately want but haven't actually bought yet. They can be old, new or forthcoming.

Fifteen years ago, a strange twist of fate made Rayne Wyman both the Viscount Tipton and a notorious outcast. Now a practicing surgeon, even Rayne’s own vow of revenge has not tempted him to reenter the polite world—and he is certain that nothing and no one ever will. Then he meets the young and remarkably lovely Devona Bedegrayne, who summons the temerity to knock on his door and demand his help. Intrigued by her innocence, exasperated by her determination, Rayne never imagines the danger Devona faces—or the irresistible desire she will awaken—when he becomes her accomplice in a bit of very scandalous mischief. . .

'Tis the season to join Cat and Bones for some holiday cheer in this Night Huntress novella by USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Jeaniene Frost.

They were looking forward to a normal holiday—at least as "normal" as it gets for vampires Cat and Bones and their otherworldly friends and family. But their yuletide plans are shattered when a mysterious stranger shows up and reveals long-buried secrets that threaten to take a bite out of their holiday cheer … and lives.

Caleb Graham is a werewolf by nature, a tracker by profession. He uses his “extra gifts” to find people, and not always in the most legal or ethical manner. He doesn’t care what they’ve done, or who wants them found, as long as his considerable fee is paid. He likes his life simple and uncomplicated.

Anna Moder, former physician to Caleb’s pack, happens across Caleb during a particularly violent “negotiation” that has left him bloodied and unconscious. She helps him, despite the fact that he’s cost her a car, so he insists that she stay with him on the road for a while. As they grow closer, Anna looks past the gruff exterior and and the questionable job to thoroughly decent werewolf underneath.

Anna – who is careful to edit her involvement with Caleb’s pack from their conversations – doesn’t talk about why a nice girl wants to live in the middle of frozen nowhere, but she’s obviously on the run from something. When Anna’s past collides with Caleb’s current assignment from one of his sleazier contacts, Caleb finally has to make a choice—protect his job…or his potential mate?

In the Highlands of Scotland, honor and loyalty are worth more than life itself. But when a haunted woman meets a wronged warrior, love will prove more powerful than anything they have ever known.

Isabail Grant has had to be strong all her life. Over the years, she has lost everyone close to her, and now she’s seeking justice for her brother’s murder. But en route to Edinburgh to petition the king, she is kidnapped by a fierce warrior—and is shocked to find herself irresistibly drawn to her captor.

Aiden MacCurran is an outlaw. The laird of a small clan, he’s been falsely accused of killing the king’s courier and stealing the Crown’s property—and the key to clearing his name and redeeming his clan lies in Isabail’s memories. But Aiden and Isabail must first weather deceit and treachery before they can find the truth and claim the love that’s growing between them.

BLINDED BY PASSION

Beautiful Lady Rose, the fiercely independent mistress of Somerford, reluctantly agrees to hire a bold Viking warrior, Gunnar Olafson, and his mercenaries to protect her undefended lands. But although Gunnar takes her breath away --- with his steel-hard muscles and eyes afire with undisguised yearning --- she dares not trust him.

But Gunnar is not what he seems. Posing as a hired soldier, he is duty-bound to expose Rose, whom his liege lord believes is plotting against him. Somerford is to be loyal Gunnar's reward, but he quickly realizes Rose is the true prize. He never expected to be bewitched by the exquisite beauty he is sworn to betray, and now he is discovering that her love is what he truly desires --- a need he must satisfy, even if dishonor is its price ..

ARC Book Review-One Night With The Laird

One Night With The Laird
Scottish Brides (2)
Nicola Cornick
HQN
E Book
Published October 2013
320 Pages
Scottish Highlands Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-373-77790-7
Authors Website

Synopsis (Goodreads)
A wicked attraction!

Fashionable society widow Lady Mairi MacLeod cannot understand the dark passion that binds her to Jack Rutherford. He is everything she dislikes in a man, rakish, arrogant and charming, and she would prefer to forget the night of wicked passion that she spent in his arms.

But when Mairi is threatened by a blackmailer, Jack is the only man who can protect her. As they work together to uncover where the danger lies, their passion reignites. Little by little, the masks they wear burn away, and their most private secrets come to light...

Scottish Brides - Where Regency elegance meets Highland passion!

My Review
Lady Mairi has spent the last four years mourning her husband, who was her best childhood friend. She keeps a dark secret that she fears coming out. So one night feeling restless and caved in, she desires to do something no one would expect the respectable widow to do. So she goes to a masquerade ball, and seduces a man she has always had a wild attraction to, Jack Rutherford. After sharing a night of wild passion, she leaves Jack unsuspecting on her true identity--or that is what she thought. A few months pass, until Jack is asked to escort her to a special event for her sister. But when Jack and Mairi meet once more, Jack recognizes her for the woman that he has dreamed of ever since that special night. For years Jack and Mairi have shared a contention between each other, but with a passion stirring, their dislike for each other soon turns into something deeper. But with Mairi being blackmailed, and being put in danger, she and Jack will need to work together to get to the bottom of that which threatens Mairi and her very life.

One Night With the Laird is the second in the series, by Nicola Cornick. I was able to get a copy of One Night With The Laird through Netgalley and HQN. I have always enjoyed HQN, and since I enjoyed the first one so much, I was looking forward to reading One Night With The Laird. When I read the blurb, I wasn't too excited to read it, I don't know why since it is the type of story I would love. So it took me a while to pick this one up, but I am glad that I did. I had no problem getting fully into the story, and before I fully realized it, the story was over. I was able to read it in just a few hours. It starts out with seeing the special sensual night between Jack and Mairi. Then they don't see each other for a few months, but when they do meet again, a passion sparks, and tension rises, and boy enough heat in the room it fogged up the windows. Then Jack learns of a plot of a distant cousin to Mairi's husband who wants all the wealth she inherited. Jack, even though he feels like Mairi is cold and distant, he can't seem but help her with the danger that she is in. Jack soon learns that Mairi is anything but cold, she has had a life that in the past years has put her in a shell and she has had to protect herself.

Jack, is the type to carouse and fill his nights with women. But after sharing a night with the masked lady, he is mesmerized and caught in her spell. He does have a past and suffers from guilt and shame, and shields himself, by being brooding and aloof. I found him sexy yet charming and doesn't let Mairi control him like she does everything else in her life. He is firm but not overly controlling. Mairi I couldn't fully like. As a main character and the heroine, I did like certain characteristics, but I felt like she was too harsh with Jack and was letting her past control her present. I did sense that her faults made her seem more easier to relate with though. The love story that develops between Jack and Mairi was powerful and highly sensual. I thought in a scene or two, it was too much. I don't want to give anything away, but a bit too rough for my taste (a bit of BDSM-which isn't my cup of tea), so I did skimmed over those parts, however for the most part I felt like the author created a lively story.

Although I found it to be a stimulating and a solid romance, I did have a few issues with it. I felt as if the flow of the story wasn't as smooth, it had some rough spots, and it was almost like riding on a bumpy roller coaster. I did like the way the plot was full of creativity and excitement. Overall I enjoyed the witty and entertaining tale with a sizzling passion to warm you up on a winters night. WONDERFUL!!

First Line 
It took ten minutes to cross from Edinburgh New Town to Edinburgh Old Town in a carriage, and for all of those ten minutes Jack had an almost uncontrollable erection the like of which he had never experienced in his life.

Favorite Quote 
" All I want," he said, "is to have you in my bed again."He kissed her, his lips moving against hers with a possessive demand that stole both her breath and her resistance. 

My Grade 
4 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books 
The Lady and the Laird
Claimed By The Laird (Coming Next)
 

Book Review-And Then Comes Marriage

And Then Comes Marriage
Worthington (2)
Celeste Bradley
St Martins
Paperback
Published August 2013
341 Pages 
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-1-250-01613-3
Authors Website

Synopsis
TWICE THE TEMPTATION

After years of being a quiet, dutiful wife, the recently widowed Mrs. Miranda Talbot is finally free to do as she pleases. As an attractive woman of independent means, Miranda is suddenly turning heads all around town. When she meets the dashing Mr. Castor Worthington, she is swept away by his passion. Is he too good to be true?

DOUBLE THE DESIRE

Little does Miranda know that there is more to Castor than meets the eye. In fact, he’s a twin. Castor’s brother, also a confirmed bachelor, takes his romantic pursuits—and rivals—very seriously. When Castor discovers Miranda is being courted by his own twin, his competitive nature takes over. Who will be the one to win Miranda’s hand and heart? The race to say I do is about to begin…

My Review
 Miranda Talbot, has recently become a widow, and she is finally starting to make a new life for herself. Miranda is the child of a father who was a criminal and sent to prison. Ever since she was a little girl, she has had to protect herself, and has no idea how to open herself up to affection and love. When she meets Mr. Worthington, there is a inner part of her that aches to be held and touched and kissed. When it becomes revealed that she has been seeing two Worthington men who look exactly alike, she feels used. It then becomes clear that both of them want to court her and win her hand. So she decides to go along with it, feeling as if she has nothing left to lose. When saving a woman from a experiment gone wrong that ends in a explosion, he is mystified, and only wants to know her more. At first he would like for her to be in his bed, but when he enters a competition with his twin brother, he decides he wants more than one night, he wants a life with Miranda. But will he be able to win Miranda's heart?

And Then Comes Marriage is the second in the Worthington series, that Celeste Bradley has created for us. I have known this author for quite some time. When I first started reading romances I was able to read Charmer, and I enjoyed it. So when this series came out, I knew I would love it. The first book was charming and fun and witty and so when I saw And Then Comes Marriage on the library shelf, I picked it up without looking at the blurb. I mean who can resist that cover anyway? So this story is a bit unique as far as Twins theme goes. There is a twist to it, and the way Bradley works it into the story line, is very fun yet has a serious tone to it. Usually I have some issues with the twin theme, but this one definitely surprised me, and quite delightfully too. It starts out a bit slower but once you get into a few chapters, it will picks up pace, and I read it in one evening, so I had a bit of fun with this book. One aspect I really liked was seeing more of the Worthington family, they are such a unique set of individuals, not your typical regency family. They can be wild and rambunctious, and tends to get quite involved in their siblings affairs. Yet there is a closeness and intimacy in this family that is addicting.

The main characters were very well done in this story. I grew to like them quite a bit. Castor, is quite a rake, and a scoundrel, but a inventor. He is intelligent, but craves the more carnal side of things. Castor is very dominant at times, and playful and silly at others. He is a enigma, has different sides to him, and I loved the complexity to his character. Miranda has never known real love or affection or respect. Since she was about seven years old, her father was sent to prison, and she was sent to live with a relative, that wasn't the most welcoming to her. Now she is a widow, having never even been kissed or known the taste of passion. I found I quite enjoyed Miranda as the heroine, and I understood her plight, and how she tries to give each brother a chance  to woo her, and she definitely stands up for herself when its needed. I think she could have been a bit better developed but for the most part I felt a kinship to her.

Overall I grew to love the latest installment of the Worthington Family. A beautiful mix of sensuality, entertaining scenes, and a sweet love story that you can indulge in!! FULLY SATISFYING!!

First Line 
Mrs. Gideon Talbot strolled sedately down the walk. 

Favorite Quote 
Before he could stop himself, he reached for her, his hands closing over her shoulders as he pulled her close to press against his body. A startled sound escaped her lips before he covered them with his. He fell, hard and spiraling, into the wet, sweet wonder of her mouth. Miranda's mouth had powers the like of which he'd never known. Kissing Miranda felt like flying, like falling, like spinning out of control and never wishing to land.

My Grade 
4 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
When She Said I Do
With This Ring
 

Audio Book Review-Temptation & Twilight

Temptation and Twilight
The Brethren Guardians (3)
Charlotte Featherstone
HQN
Audiobook
Published June 2012
384 Pages
Victorian Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780373776627
Authors Website  

Synopsis
Iain Sinclair, Marquis of Alynwick, is certain there is a special hell for him. An unrepentant rake, he holds nothing sacred – except for beautiful Elizabeth York. For years, Alynwick has tried to forget the woman he loved so well, and treated so badly. A woman who could hold nothing in her heart for him except hatred.

All of society believes Elizabeth, blind daughter of a duke, to be a proper young lady. But no one knows of her wanton affair with Alynwick. When Lizzy learns of her ancestor’s ancient diary – filled with exotic tales – she longs to uncover the identity of the unnamed lover within and hesitantly allows Alynwick, who claims to have knowledge of the “veiled lady,” to help her solve the mystery.

Eager to be Lizzy’s eyes, Alynwick brings the seductive text to life, and each night it takes greater effort for her to forget his betrayal. With each whispered word, her resolve gives way, without her knowing that a centuries-old secret will lead them to a present-day danger.

My Review
Elizabeth York is a spinster, and blind, and inherited her blindness from her mother who was also blind. With the danger against the Brethren Guardians, her brother wants her to focus on other matters, thinking that she is in grave danger. Most of her life, Elizabeth has had the Guardian business to keep her busy. Now with her blindness, she feels useless. With Iain Sinclair back in her life, she is doing all she can to resist his tender voice and tempting kisses. Suddenly a Lord Sheldon, who shares her interests in the Templar's, is courting her, and for the first time she feels like she can overcome the pain and grief of her past and Iain Sinclair, and find true happiness. Iain Sinclair, one of the Brethren Guardians, is more reckless and hotheaded, and a Scot. He has made many mistakes in his life, but his most disastrous was hurting the one woman with whom he gave his heart too. Iain has finally realized that after all of these years, he still aches and dreams of Beth and the passion they once shared. He knows that he doesn't have a chance in hell to get her back, but being full of pride and arrogance, he tries anyway to show her of his true feelings and that she is the only way that can find anything redeemable in him. 

Temptation and Twilight is the third in the Brethren Guardian series. I really enjoyed the second book through Audible, so I decided to get this title on Audible as well. The second book Pride and Passion ended with a bit of a cliffhanger, so I couldn't wait very long to listen to this story. It begins with seeing Iain getting fully involved in Elizabeth's life, when she begins to be courted by a Lord Sheldon. Iain is full of rage at the mention of his name, but seeing them together, infuriates him so that he attacks Lord Sheldon at a ball and puts Elizabeth into shock and dismay. Elizabeth doesn't trust Iain and that is very obvious through the whole story. Elizabeth has been hurt and betrayed by Iain, since they once had a affair ten years previous, and Elizabeth is still hurt and bitter over it. There is also the side plot of intrigue that develops and starts to unravel as the tension between Iain and Elizabeth gets only more fierce.

I had a few issues with Temptation and Twilight, one being Elizabeth.For the most part I liked her  as the heroine, and I loved the "blindness" aspect, and I admired her for accepting it as she does.  I could understand why she was so bitter and angry with Iain, but it tended to get very frustrating to see how she kept fighting Iain, and vocally, she could get very brutal. As I read this, or listened to it, I got to the point where I wanted to scream or yell at Beth at times. Not always, there were parts of the story especially in the beginning, that I understood why she was so cold and unfeeling toward him. However she didn't really soften until the very end and I found myself being on Iain's side. Iain is more of a darker character, compared to the other Brethren, but you see a side of him that is irresistible.  Iain has made many mistakes, and has sacrificed much for the Brethren Guardians. I couldn't help but love him immensely. Iain, a Scot, gorgeous, temptation itself, and he humbles himself quite a bit for Elizabeth. You see the changes in him, determined to win Elizabeth's forgiveness and her love. I couldn't help but admire his tenacity to stick with it, and I felt like Iain is the most misunderstood of all the guardians, and he just might be my favorite. Because he is far from perfect, has many challenges and faults, but he seemed more human to me, and that is my favorite aspect in characters, is when they have faults and more human.

Overall I fell in love with the last installment in this series, and Temptation and Twilight was a good final story that wrapped the series up nicely. I really enjoyed the tension and the intrigue aspect of the story, and the secrets that are revealed that I have been waiting quite a long time to find out. The romance between Iain and Elizabeth was powerful and stimulating. A erotic filled passion that jumps from the pages, and the story entices and pulls you in so that you can't put it down. A sensual tale that will consume you!!!

Favorite Quote 
It’s always only ever been you. And it always will be, Beth. You have my heart. My love. And my regret that I am not the man you deserve

My Grade 
4 Blossoms 

Heat Rating 
Steamy 

Other Books In Series 
Seduction and Scandal 
Pride and Passion