Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Library Loot (27)
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Book Review-Scandal In Scotland
Hurst Amulet (2)
Karen Hawkins
Avon Romance
Paperback
Published Jun 2011
333 Pages
Scottish Highlands
ISBN 978-1-4391-7593-4
Synopsis
A DESPERATE BEAUTY
Despite fame and countless admirers, actress Marcail Beauchamp has never forgotten William Hurst, the audacious seafarer she once loved . . . and lost. Now, forced by a mysterious blackmailer who threatens her family, she must steal an ancient onyx box from the one man she's vowed never to see again.
A BOLD ADVENTURER
To save his brother from a ruthless abductor, William must deliver the artifact as ransom. He's stunned when Marcail, more lovely than ever, suddenly appears on his ship. But when she drugs him and steals the box, his fury knows no bounds.
THE TREASURE EVERYONE WANTS
William pursues Marcail, but too late: she has already delivered the box. The estranged lovers realize they must work together -- both to regain the artifact that could mean life or death to his family and to destroy the mysterious blackmailer's power over her family. Thus begins a high-stakes quest through the reaches of Scotland, a quest that stirs up long-forgotten memories and an unquenchable passion. . . .
A DESPERATE BEAUTY
Despite fame and countless admirers, actress Marcail Beauchamp has never forgotten William Hurst, the audacious seafarer she once loved . . . and lost. Now, forced by a mysterious blackmailer who threatens her family, she must steal an ancient onyx box from the one man she's vowed never to see again.
A BOLD ADVENTURER
To save his brother from a ruthless abductor, William must deliver the artifact as ransom. He's stunned when Marcail, more lovely than ever, suddenly appears on his ship. But when she drugs him and steals the box, his fury knows no bounds.
THE TREASURE EVERYONE WANTS
William pursues Marcail, but too late: she has already delivered the box. The estranged lovers realize they must work together -- both to regain the artifact that could mean life or death to his family and to destroy the mysterious blackmailer's power over her family. Thus begins a high-stakes quest through the reaches of Scotland, a quest that stirs up long-forgotten memories and an unquenchable passion. . . .
Summary
Marcail, a famous actress, is being blackmailed to retrieve an ancient onyx box from William Hurst. A man she once loved but had to abandon thinking there was no future for them. But when she tricks him and gets the box and finds out the real reason why William needs it she goes with him to help find the box. When Williams gets tricked by the one woman who broke his heart, he is more than furious so he is determined to go and find that woman and get his box back, only things never goes as he plans, and he ends up having to take her with him in search of the box, but the passion that once was bright has returned and they both having to work together start to reawaken the love they once had...
The Hero (William Hurst)
William, is desperate to save his brothers life and must deliver the onyx box to save his life. But when the woman he once desperately loved and still does, returns unexpectadely and drugs him and the box gone, he knows he must find her no matter what. Only he never expected the love he once had for her to only come back burning brighter and stronger than ever before and doesn't know if he will be able to protect his heart.
The Heroine ( Marcail Beauchamp)
Marcail, is a famous actress....but more than that has had to take a new name for herself to live her dream. Marcail is from a family that are titled, but in order to protect her family and save them from financial ruin, she decides to take a page from her grandmothers book, and become like a actress. Now she is being blackmailed and must do whatever is required to save her family from ruin and danger even if that means stealing from the one man she still loves....
My Thoughts
Scandal In Scotland is the second installment in the series and even though there were many moments that I immersed myself in, it was probably my least favorite so far. There were many elements to the book that I really enjoyed. I loved the interaction between the two main characters, the plot was full of excitement and ups and down that can make your head spin. The one thing I would wish was different was the flow, it was uneven and I just felt like it could have been a bit smoother and then it would have been perfect. Overall it was a delicious treat to be savored!!!
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
Much Ado About Marriage
One Night In Scotland
A Most Dangerous Profession
The Taming Of A Scottish Princess
Monday, February 6, 2012
Book Review-A Lady Never Tells
Willowmere (1)
Candace Camp
Pocket Books
Paperback
Published May 2010
451 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN 978-1-4391-1797-2
Meet three noble bachelors and a quartet of American girls of questionable manners! New York Times bestselling author Candace Camp delights with an exciting new series featuring love, laughter, and intrigue.
When Mary Bascombe’s stepfather tries to sell her and her sisters to the highest bidder after their mother’s death, she resolves to take drastic action. Although their British mother was estranged from her family, Mary decides the four will flee to London and take their place in society as granddaughters of the Earl of Stewkesbury.
Dashing Sir Royce Winslow doubts the honesty of the young women’s claim—despite their charms, they seem to be hiding something. His attraction to feisty Mary, however, is no ruse, so when the sisters are shipped off to Willowmere, the earl’s country estate, to acquire some polish, Royce is quick to join them. When an unknown villain attempts a kidnapping, Royce and Mary are thrown together as they confront the danger . . . and Royce learns that while high society may sing the praises of proper behavior, it is a most improper American who is winning his heart.
Summary:
After Mary's mother dies and she and her three sisters are left with their stepfather who wants to sell them, she takes herself and her sisters to seek refuge from their grandfather who is a Earl in England. Upon arriving however things are not what they expect, finding out their grandfather has passed away and they need to seek refuge from a cousin who is the current Earl of Stewkesbury. At first Mary is reluctant to do all that is required, to accept everything that are given to them because of their connection to the Earl. However she knows that she needs to do what is best for her and her sisters and their future. Sir Royce Winslow, when first seeing Mary and her sisters is very doubtful of their true identity, for they are a bit wild and nothing like any ladies he has ever met before. When the true identity is confirmed he is around Mary more and more, and he feels a pulling force toward Mary and her fiery spirit. But when danger comes lurking around the sisters, Royce is more protective of Mary than ever, and as desire sparks between Royce and Mary so does Love, and even though he has never wanted marriage before now he realizes that he does with only One woman....
The Hero (Royce Winslow)
Royce, although he is more of a distant relation to the Earl, and is a bit bitter about family matters, but when he meets Mary he is around his family even more than usual. Royce we see in the beginning is very stubborn and pig headed at times, but can also be a man of protective nature. Even though he refuses to marry, and has had his heart broken once, thinking he could never love again....he realizes that love will sneak up on you without one realizing it, and his heart begins to open to Mary's love.
The Heroine ( Mary Bascombe)
Mary, grew up in a loving home, with parents that loved and cherished each other deeply. Once they both pass away and all they are left with is to be sold to the highest bidder, she takes her sisters to England hoping to find her family connection on her mothers side. But what Mary never expected was to find was a man that could steal her breath and her heart...
My Thoughts
Its been quite some time since I have read Candace Camp, and so when I read the blurb on A Lady Never Tells I knew I just had to read it, and the cover definitely drew me in. A Lady Never Tells is the first installment of one of her more recent series, and I think from the first page I just fell in love with each and every one of the characters. Especially the sisters, they were charming and made me wish I had such sisters, that way I would never ever be bored. Even though I haven't read many books from this author, I always enjoy her stories, and they always tend to make me fall madly in love with plot and characters. One of my favorite things about A Lady Never Tells is how delectable it was, the characters beyond endearing and the plot utterly delightful!!! Just LOVED It!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
A Gentleman Always Remembers
An Affair Without End
After Mary's mother dies and she and her three sisters are left with their stepfather who wants to sell them, she takes herself and her sisters to seek refuge from their grandfather who is a Earl in England. Upon arriving however things are not what they expect, finding out their grandfather has passed away and they need to seek refuge from a cousin who is the current Earl of Stewkesbury. At first Mary is reluctant to do all that is required, to accept everything that are given to them because of their connection to the Earl. However she knows that she needs to do what is best for her and her sisters and their future. Sir Royce Winslow, when first seeing Mary and her sisters is very doubtful of their true identity, for they are a bit wild and nothing like any ladies he has ever met before. When the true identity is confirmed he is around Mary more and more, and he feels a pulling force toward Mary and her fiery spirit. But when danger comes lurking around the sisters, Royce is more protective of Mary than ever, and as desire sparks between Royce and Mary so does Love, and even though he has never wanted marriage before now he realizes that he does with only One woman....
The Hero (Royce Winslow)
Royce, although he is more of a distant relation to the Earl, and is a bit bitter about family matters, but when he meets Mary he is around his family even more than usual. Royce we see in the beginning is very stubborn and pig headed at times, but can also be a man of protective nature. Even though he refuses to marry, and has had his heart broken once, thinking he could never love again....he realizes that love will sneak up on you without one realizing it, and his heart begins to open to Mary's love.
The Heroine ( Mary Bascombe)
Mary, grew up in a loving home, with parents that loved and cherished each other deeply. Once they both pass away and all they are left with is to be sold to the highest bidder, she takes her sisters to England hoping to find her family connection on her mothers side. But what Mary never expected was to find was a man that could steal her breath and her heart...
My Thoughts
Its been quite some time since I have read Candace Camp, and so when I read the blurb on A Lady Never Tells I knew I just had to read it, and the cover definitely drew me in. A Lady Never Tells is the first installment of one of her more recent series, and I think from the first page I just fell in love with each and every one of the characters. Especially the sisters, they were charming and made me wish I had such sisters, that way I would never ever be bored. Even though I haven't read many books from this author, I always enjoy her stories, and they always tend to make me fall madly in love with plot and characters. One of my favorite things about A Lady Never Tells is how delectable it was, the characters beyond endearing and the plot utterly delightful!!! Just LOVED It!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
A Gentleman Always Remembers
An Affair Without End
Its Monday! What Are You Reading? (25)
What I Read This Past Week
One Night In Scotland My Review
The Game My Review
Just Like Heaven My Review
One Magic MomentMy Review
A Lady Never Tells -Review Coming Soon
Captured By A Rogue Lord-Review Coming Soon
Of Noble Birth -Review Coming Soon
Currently Reading
Books I Am Planning On Reading This Week
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Lusting For Covers (42)
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
Having watched her mother languish away for a lost love, Raven Kendrick vows never to surrender her heart. But when her life erupts in scandal, she is forced to accept a marriage proposal from the wickedly sensuous owner of London’s most notorious gaming hell. Though fiercely drawn to her enigmatic rescuer, Raven battles to resist her husband, whose sensuous caresses promise ecstasy beyond her wildest fantasies.
To save the reputation of an innocent girl nearly ruined by his brother, Kell Lasseter sacrifices his freedom to wed the dazzling debutante. Long scorned for his Irish blood and dark past, Kell cannot deny that this enchanting spitfire is unlike other society misses . . . anymore than he can quell his smoldering desire for her. Torn between loyalty to his brother and his growing feelings for his rebellious bride, Kell must somehow free Raven’s reluctant heart before they can know the ecstasy of true love.(
To save the reputation of an innocent girl nearly ruined by his brother, Kell Lasseter sacrifices his freedom to wed the dazzling debutante. Long scorned for his Irish blood and dark past, Kell cannot deny that this enchanting spitfire is unlike other society misses . . . anymore than he can quell his smoldering desire for her. Torn between loyalty to his brother and his growing feelings for his rebellious bride, Kell must somehow free Raven’s reluctant heart before they can know the ecstasy of true love.(
Book Review-Just Like Heaven
Smythe-Smiths (1)
Julia Quinn
Avon
Paperback
Published June 2011
374 Pages
Regency Romance
ISBN 978-0-06-149190-0
Honoria Smythe-Smith is:
A) a really bad violinist
B) still miffed at being nicknamed "Bug" as a child
C) not in love with her older brother's best friend
D) all of the above
Marcus Holroyd is:
A) the Earl of Chatteris
B) regrettably prone to sprained ankles
C) not in love with his best friend's younger sister
D) all of the above
Together they:
A) eat quite a bit of chocolate cake
B) survive a deadly fever and the world's worst musical performance
C) fall quite desperately in love
It's Julia Quinn at her best, so you know the answer is . . .
D) all of the above
A) a really bad violinist
B) still miffed at being nicknamed "Bug" as a child
C) not in love with her older brother's best friend
D) all of the above
Marcus Holroyd is:
A) the Earl of Chatteris
B) regrettably prone to sprained ankles
C) not in love with his best friend's younger sister
D) all of the above
Together they:
A) eat quite a bit of chocolate cake
B) survive a deadly fever and the world's worst musical performance
C) fall quite desperately in love
It's Julia Quinn at her best, so you know the answer is . . .
D) all of the above
Summary:
Honoria, the youngest daughter of a Earl, and part of the Smuth-Smiths quartet, is in search of a husband. Then she meets up with Marcus, the Earl of Chatteris. Marcus was her brothers best friend, and is surprised to see him. Marcus, promised her brother Daniel that he would look after his sister Honoria, and make sure that she doesn't marry foolishly. But when events occur that put them in close proximity, sparks fly, and even though they both resist at first, they start to fall in love with each other despite injury and sickness, but will their love be strong enough when a secret comes out that Marcus has been hiding from Honoria?
The Hero (Marcus Holroyd)
Marcus, the Earl of Chatteris, ever since he made that promise to Daniel ( his best friend) to watch over Honoria and make sure she doesn't marry an idiot or worse, a rake. He starts to keep tabs on her, but his curiosity is peaked when she comes to Cambridge and sets her sights on a Bridgerton. However Marcus is determined to make sure she doesn't make another mistake, but is shocked when he himself wants to marry her himself.
The Heroine (Honoria Smyth-Smith)
Honoria, is part of the musical group that is rumored to be horrid, however even though she knows how terrible they are, its a tradition in her family, and feels like she needs to continue until she marries. In the previous year, somehow none of her prospects ended up working out, however this year she is more determined than ever to make sure she marries before the year is ended. But when she is near Marcus, she starts to slowly fall in love with despite that she has known him since childhood....
My Thoughts
Just Like Heaven is the first in the Quartet series and I have always had a love for Julia Quinn. I have to say though at the beginning I had a hard time getting into the story, but thankfully as things started to get Really interesting, I started to get really into the story and the characters. I really liked how both Marcus and Honoria have known each other since childhood, and somehow that friendship turns into something way more than either would have expected. It was fun to see the different mishaps that put these two together. Although this book is far from my favorite of Julia Quinn's, I still really enjoyed it and I would recommend it to any romance lover.....
My Grade On this Book
3.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
A Night Like This
Friday, February 3, 2012
Feature And Follow (6)
Define your favorite characteristics your favorite books share....
I would have to say that I just love those with a inner resilience and strength and can handle just about anything that is thrown at them including a alpha male....For heroines I love both spitfires and the more gentle types that still fight for what they want but not in such a dramatic way. Some of my favorite books are with characters that have many flaws but have just as many strengths and come out winning in the end.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Book Review-One Magic Moment
De Piaget (14)
Lynn Kurland
Jove
Paperback
Published May 2011
368 Pages
Time Travel Medieval Romance
ISBN 978-0-515-14951-7
Synopsis
Medieval studies scholar Tess Alexander is thrilled for the chance to live in a medieval castle. But then a trip to the village brings her face-to-face with the owner of the local garage, who looks a great deal like the man who married her sister...800 years in the past. She's determined to remain objective about magic and destiny, but she can't help wondering about that mysterious, sword-wielding mechanic.
Medieval studies scholar Tess Alexander is thrilled for the chance to live in a medieval castle. But then a trip to the village brings her face-to-face with the owner of the local garage, who looks a great deal like the man who married her sister...800 years in the past. She's determined to remain objective about magic and destiny, but she can't help wondering about that mysterious, sword-wielding mechanic.
Summary
Tess Alexander, living in a restored medieval castle, with a degree and a work that she is passionate about, but then one day when she takes her car to the garage, she comes face to face with a man that looks exactly like her brother in law, the one that is married to her sister in the past. But as things start to escalate between them she starts to realize that he must be a brother of her brother in law, and wonders how he came to be here in the present day, and why is he here?John De Piaget has been living in the future for quite some time now, and although he misses his family, has come to like it here. But when he meets Tess he knows he is in trouble. For she is the one woman that could dig into his past, and thats the last thing that he needs now. At first Tess and John are bothered by each other, but as time passes by and they start spending more and more time together, chemistry starts to build between them and right when they believe things are going right for the both of them, there is a danger that threatens them both and their futures.
The Hero (John de Piaget)
John is a son of Rhys Piaget, and when he and his father had a falling out, he came to the future and even though now he misses his family, he has settled here in this time. When he first meets he is very unsettled and a bit bothered by her, but he is drawn to her, and despite his best efforts to stay far away, he only ends up being closer to her, and when he starts to start falling for her, he now only wants to protect her and woo her like only a Piaget knight can....
The Heroine (Tess Alexander)
When Tess lost her sister, she felt like she was grieving, but she still had some family left, a wonderful job and career with something she loves, a scholar of medieval history, and lives in a medieval castle, life couldn't be better....until she meets John and her whole life gets topsy turvy and now she doesn't have any idea what she is doing, until she finds him at her side more than not, and the more she gets to know him the more she wonders if destiny has a hand in the situation she finds herself in and she knows she can easily fall in love with John just like her sister did his brother.
My Thoughts
Its been a while since I have read a book from this author and from this series, and now I just want to read all the books in the series again. I have read the earlier books, but none of the recent ones, and after reading One Magic Moment, I now want to read all the others. From the first page I was completely drawn into the story. I Loved Loved Loved these two characters, it was pretty humorous to watch these two fumble through this little romance and courting they have going on. In the beginning we see that they don't really care much for one another, but the more they are in each others companies, they start to form a powerful bond to each other, and I just had to sigh almost every chapter after that. I definitely loved the plot as well, in the beginning it seemed like it would be just a romance, but there definitely was a danger element that was added. One Magic Moment would have to be on the top of my life of time travel romances, right below Brenda Joyce's. Although this doesn't have much intimacy in the book, which is standard with this author. However I did love the romance level in this novel, not steamy by any means, but I fell in love with it all the same!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
Another Chance To Dream
If I Had You
Dreams Of Stardust
When I Fall In Love
The Christmas Cat
The Gift Of Christmas Past
This Is All I Ask
The More I See You
From This Moment On
To Kiss In The Shadows
Stardust Of Yesterday
One Enchanted Evening
Till There Was You
Tapestry
One Magic Moment
A Time For Love
Tess Alexander, living in a restored medieval castle, with a degree and a work that she is passionate about, but then one day when she takes her car to the garage, she comes face to face with a man that looks exactly like her brother in law, the one that is married to her sister in the past. But as things start to escalate between them she starts to realize that he must be a brother of her brother in law, and wonders how he came to be here in the present day, and why is he here?John De Piaget has been living in the future for quite some time now, and although he misses his family, has come to like it here. But when he meets Tess he knows he is in trouble. For she is the one woman that could dig into his past, and thats the last thing that he needs now. At first Tess and John are bothered by each other, but as time passes by and they start spending more and more time together, chemistry starts to build between them and right when they believe things are going right for the both of them, there is a danger that threatens them both and their futures.
The Hero (John de Piaget)
John is a son of Rhys Piaget, and when he and his father had a falling out, he came to the future and even though now he misses his family, he has settled here in this time. When he first meets he is very unsettled and a bit bothered by her, but he is drawn to her, and despite his best efforts to stay far away, he only ends up being closer to her, and when he starts to start falling for her, he now only wants to protect her and woo her like only a Piaget knight can....
The Heroine (Tess Alexander)
When Tess lost her sister, she felt like she was grieving, but she still had some family left, a wonderful job and career with something she loves, a scholar of medieval history, and lives in a medieval castle, life couldn't be better....until she meets John and her whole life gets topsy turvy and now she doesn't have any idea what she is doing, until she finds him at her side more than not, and the more she gets to know him the more she wonders if destiny has a hand in the situation she finds herself in and she knows she can easily fall in love with John just like her sister did his brother.
My Thoughts
Its been a while since I have read a book from this author and from this series, and now I just want to read all the books in the series again. I have read the earlier books, but none of the recent ones, and after reading One Magic Moment, I now want to read all the others. From the first page I was completely drawn into the story. I Loved Loved Loved these two characters, it was pretty humorous to watch these two fumble through this little romance and courting they have going on. In the beginning we see that they don't really care much for one another, but the more they are in each others companies, they start to form a powerful bond to each other, and I just had to sigh almost every chapter after that. I definitely loved the plot as well, in the beginning it seemed like it would be just a romance, but there definitely was a danger element that was added. One Magic Moment would have to be on the top of my life of time travel romances, right below Brenda Joyce's. Although this doesn't have much intimacy in the book, which is standard with this author. However I did love the romance level in this novel, not steamy by any means, but I fell in love with it all the same!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
Another Chance To Dream
If I Had You
Dreams Of Stardust
When I Fall In Love
The Christmas Cat
The Gift Of Christmas Past
This Is All I Ask
The More I See You
From This Moment On
To Kiss In The Shadows
Stardust Of Yesterday
One Enchanted Evening
Till There Was You
Tapestry
One Magic Moment
A Time For Love
Waiting On Wednesday (48)
Synopsis
Gerard de Lacey is determined to find the man who tried to blackmail his late father, both to stop the blackmail and to discover—and dispose of—any evidence the villain has about his father’s clandestine first marriage. If that proof is made public, it could prove Gerard and his brothers illegitimate, and strip them of their inheritance. And just in case, Gerard intends to find himself a wealthy bride. One way or another, he’s not going to be left destitute. But he’s not expecting a rich widow to find him and ask him to marry her. Katherine Howe’s first marriage was one of dreary duty, arranged by her wealthy father to a penniless lord. Now that she’s being pressured to marry her late husband’s heir, she’s desperately in search of a better option. Gerard de Lacey, with his sinful good looks, charming manner, and looming scandal fits her needs perfectly. The fact that she’s nursed a secret affection for him for years only makes it better—and worse. Because Gerard will marry her, for her fortune—but will he love her for herself, as she loves him?
Gerard de Lacey is determined to find the man who tried to blackmail his late father, both to stop the blackmail and to discover—and dispose of—any evidence the villain has about his father’s clandestine first marriage. If that proof is made public, it could prove Gerard and his brothers illegitimate, and strip them of their inheritance. And just in case, Gerard intends to find himself a wealthy bride. One way or another, he’s not going to be left destitute. But he’s not expecting a rich widow to find him and ask him to marry her. Katherine Howe’s first marriage was one of dreary duty, arranged by her wealthy father to a penniless lord. Now that she’s being pressured to marry her late husband’s heir, she’s desperately in search of a better option. Gerard de Lacey, with his sinful good looks, charming manner, and looming scandal fits her needs perfectly. The fact that she’s nursed a secret affection for him for years only makes it better—and worse. Because Gerard will marry her, for her fortune—but will he love her for herself, as she loves him?
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Book Review-The Game
De Warrene Dynasty (4)
Brenda Joyce
Avon
Paperback
Published Mar 1995
472 Pages
European Renaissance/Nautical Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-380-77573-6
Synopsis
Released from the sanctuary of a French convent, highborn, tempestuous Katherine FitzGerald sets sail for her beloved Ireland - only to find herself prisoner of the infamous pirate known to the Elizbethans as the Master of the Seas.
The pirate captain is Liam O'Neill, favored by Elizabeth the Queen. A hardened court player, he is determined to win the willful Katherine while advancing his own secret causes. But now he must risk everything he cherishes in order to triumph at a very treacherous game - through heartbreaking deception...and by breaking all the rules.
The Game has begun...
Released from the sanctuary of a French convent, highborn, tempestuous Katherine FitzGerald sets sail for her beloved Ireland - only to find herself prisoner of the infamous pirate known to the Elizbethans as the Master of the Seas.
The pirate captain is Liam O'Neill, favored by Elizabeth the Queen. A hardened court player, he is determined to win the willful Katherine while advancing his own secret causes. But now he must risk everything he cherishes in order to triumph at a very treacherous game - through heartbreaking deception...and by breaking all the rules.
The Game has begun...
MY REVIEW
Summary
Katherine, after being in the convent for years and not having heard from her family, decides to leave knowing all she wants is a husband and children. So when she leaved and gets on a ship on her way to Ireland, back home, the ship is captured by pirates and she is a prisoner of Liam O'Neill, the pirate captain, who refuses to let her go. Katherine refuses to give in to the feelings and the desire she starts to feel for Liam, knowing she deserves more than to be a mistress to a pirate, that she deserves love, marriage and a family of her own. Liam is the king of Games, and ever since he first saw Katherine, he knew he would keep her, and even though he has a secret cause he will do everything he can to Win!
The Hero (Liam O'Neill)
Liam is half english and half irish, his father being a ruthless lord, his mother helpless to do anything to protect herself or her children. So Liam learned at a young age how to protect himself, and to never give in, no matter the risk or the cost. When Liam see's Katherine, he is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her in his life even at the risk of pain and death. Katherine is His and will even break the rules of his own game to keep her by his side.
The Heroine (Katherine FitzGerald)
Katherine, is desperate to get away from the convent, not knowing what has really happened to her family, so when she is captured by the pirate captain, she is most resistent and in the beginning refuses to give in to the feelings that she has for him. However as she starts to find the truth about her family and what has been happening since she has been in the convent, the feelings she has for Liam start to increase, and even though at times she feelings like she should strangle him, she also can't deny that she loves him.
My Thoughts
The Game is the 4th in the de Warrenne series, and I have always enjoyed Brenda Joyce and all of her books for the most part, and even though this was a bit longer, it was still a enjoyable read but far from my favorite of her books. The one thing that I really loved about this story, was how there was always a surprise at the next turn of the plot, something I would have never expected to happen, and left me excited to see what would happen next. The title for the book "The Game" is perfect, and fits it with exactness. The characters were fascinating to get to know. Liam would just make me laugh at times, and other make me want to hug him, and other I wanted to throttle him. Katherine however, it took me a while to really warm up to her, she seemed a bit selfish and naive especially in the beginning, but she grew on me as the story started to really develop. Overall it was a really enjoyable read with lots of intrigue and mystery, romance and passion and series of events that might just make your head spin!!
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
The Conquerer
Scandalous Love
Promise of the Rose
The Game
The Prize
The Masquerade
The Stolen Bride
A Lady at Last
The Perfect Bride
A Dangerous Love
The Promise
An Impossible Attraction
House of Dreams
Summary
Katherine, after being in the convent for years and not having heard from her family, decides to leave knowing all she wants is a husband and children. So when she leaved and gets on a ship on her way to Ireland, back home, the ship is captured by pirates and she is a prisoner of Liam O'Neill, the pirate captain, who refuses to let her go. Katherine refuses to give in to the feelings and the desire she starts to feel for Liam, knowing she deserves more than to be a mistress to a pirate, that she deserves love, marriage and a family of her own. Liam is the king of Games, and ever since he first saw Katherine, he knew he would keep her, and even though he has a secret cause he will do everything he can to Win!
The Hero (Liam O'Neill)
Liam is half english and half irish, his father being a ruthless lord, his mother helpless to do anything to protect herself or her children. So Liam learned at a young age how to protect himself, and to never give in, no matter the risk or the cost. When Liam see's Katherine, he is willing to do whatever it takes to keep her in his life even at the risk of pain and death. Katherine is His and will even break the rules of his own game to keep her by his side.
The Heroine (Katherine FitzGerald)
Katherine, is desperate to get away from the convent, not knowing what has really happened to her family, so when she is captured by the pirate captain, she is most resistent and in the beginning refuses to give in to the feelings that she has for him. However as she starts to find the truth about her family and what has been happening since she has been in the convent, the feelings she has for Liam start to increase, and even though at times she feelings like she should strangle him, she also can't deny that she loves him.
My Thoughts
The Game is the 4th in the de Warrenne series, and I have always enjoyed Brenda Joyce and all of her books for the most part, and even though this was a bit longer, it was still a enjoyable read but far from my favorite of her books. The one thing that I really loved about this story, was how there was always a surprise at the next turn of the plot, something I would have never expected to happen, and left me excited to see what would happen next. The title for the book "The Game" is perfect, and fits it with exactness. The characters were fascinating to get to know. Liam would just make me laugh at times, and other make me want to hug him, and other I wanted to throttle him. Katherine however, it took me a while to really warm up to her, she seemed a bit selfish and naive especially in the beginning, but she grew on me as the story started to really develop. Overall it was a really enjoyable read with lots of intrigue and mystery, romance and passion and series of events that might just make your head spin!!
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
The Conquerer
Scandalous Love
Promise of the Rose
The Game
The Prize
The Masquerade
The Stolen Bride
A Lady at Last
The Perfect Bride
A Dangerous Love
The Promise
An Impossible Attraction
House of Dreams
Monday, January 30, 2012
Book Review-One Night In Scotland
Hurst Amulet (1)
Karen Hawkins
Pocket Books
Published Dec 2010
335 Pages
Scottish Highlands Romance
ISBN 978-4391-7589-7
Synopsis
New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins begins a sparkling new series with this thrilling tale of a desperate beauty on an urgent quest, a , dark earl scarred by his beastly past-----and ,the ancient treasure that binds their fates.
A MYSTERIOUS ABDUCTOR .. .
Someone is holding her brother prisoner in exchange for a gold-and-onyx box covered in mysterious runes, so Mary Hurst boldly sets out from the family vicarage to find the priceless artifact. But the man who possesses it, Angus Hay, the Earl of Erroll, is less than sympathetic to her plight.
A FORBIDDING STRANGER .. .
Himself a prisoner of his dark past, Angus refuses to yield the box -- or allow Mary to leave! Suspicious of the alluring lass's mission, he vows to wrest a confession from her, but unearths a fiery temper and a will as strong as his own.
AN UNBREAKABLE CURSE...
Passion flares between them, but now there is more at stake: an unknown enemy is hunting down the precious box, and will stop at nothing. Risking all for love, Angus must solve the mystery behind the runes ... and trust the only woman who can awaken his forgotten heart.
New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins begins a sparkling new series with this thrilling tale of a desperate beauty on an urgent quest, a , dark earl scarred by his beastly past-----and ,the ancient treasure that binds their fates.
A MYSTERIOUS ABDUCTOR .. .
Someone is holding her brother prisoner in exchange for a gold-and-onyx box covered in mysterious runes, so Mary Hurst boldly sets out from the family vicarage to find the priceless artifact. But the man who possesses it, Angus Hay, the Earl of Erroll, is less than sympathetic to her plight.
A FORBIDDING STRANGER .. .
Himself a prisoner of his dark past, Angus refuses to yield the box -- or allow Mary to leave! Suspicious of the alluring lass's mission, he vows to wrest a confession from her, but unearths a fiery temper and a will as strong as his own.
AN UNBREAKABLE CURSE...
Passion flares between them, but now there is more at stake: an unknown enemy is hunting down the precious box, and will stop at nothing. Risking all for love, Angus must solve the mystery behind the runes ... and trust the only woman who can awaken his forgotten heart.
Summary:
Mary Hurst, when finding out one of her brothers, is a prisoner, and needs to find a certain ancient box to trade for him, she heads up north to Scotland to find the artifact so she can save her brother's life. After traveling long hours and when she finds the Earl of Erroll, he is less than understanding to her 'story' and goes about and keeps her prisoner in his castle. Angus, although he is tempted to believe Mary, he knows that there is someone that is after the priceless artifact and he must be a hundred percent Mary is who she says she is, and knows that keeping her here until he can bring a colleague of his to confirm her identity is the only way. What Angus never imagined was the intense connection that flares between them with just one kiss, and he knows that he must never give in, because if he does than he will fall for her...hard
The Hero (Angus Hay, Earl of Erroll)
Angus, although he is very wealthy, is secluded and lives in a remote castle in Scotland. After losing his beloved wife to a fire that destroyed part of his home, and being scarred himself he knows he doesn't have a choice but living a secluded life, with his cousin, continuing on with his work, dealing with precious artifacts. When Mary shows up his life goes upside down and part of him wants to resist her, and then there is a part of him that wants to give in to the passion that fires up whenever she is near.
The Heroine (Mary Hurst)
Mary, upon receiving a letter informing her of her brother's situation she knows that she must save his life and do all that she can to get her hands on the artifact. Mary, even though her sisters have been in love and married, it has never happened for her, and now when she meets Angus, she is unexplainably drawn to him and even though he is keeping her prisoner she also finds herself falling for her captor.
My Thoughts
One Night in Scotland is the first book in the Hurst Amulet series, and I have always loved her books and this was pretty amazing, not my favorite of hers, but enthralling and was like many of her other books where it just draws you into the story vividly. One of the things that I loved about this book is how perfect both Mary and Angus seem to be for each other, even though there are some pretty heated arguments, and violent tantrums that just made me laugh, and think 'oh boy, I hope I never meet a man that makes me want to sing like a banchee or an opera singer just to get his attention'. Although once I really got into the, I started to find myself really enjoying the story, the characters, the plot and the amusing interaction between the characters, that made it a fun tale of romance with a hint of mystery that will make you not want to put the book down and keep on reading until the sun goes down.
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Favorite Quote
Angus had never been so furious in his entire life. Every word she uttered was a deliberate challenge. Well, the chit was about to get what she so desperately desired: an answer for her impertinence. He bent his head and kissed her, pouring all of his discontent, fry, and heated desire into it. He stepped away and her hands fell away from his lapels.
"Let that be a lesson to you not to try my temper"
Other Books In The Series
Scandal In Scotland
A Most Dangerous Profession
Mary Hurst, when finding out one of her brothers, is a prisoner, and needs to find a certain ancient box to trade for him, she heads up north to Scotland to find the artifact so she can save her brother's life. After traveling long hours and when she finds the Earl of Erroll, he is less than understanding to her 'story' and goes about and keeps her prisoner in his castle. Angus, although he is tempted to believe Mary, he knows that there is someone that is after the priceless artifact and he must be a hundred percent Mary is who she says she is, and knows that keeping her here until he can bring a colleague of his to confirm her identity is the only way. What Angus never imagined was the intense connection that flares between them with just one kiss, and he knows that he must never give in, because if he does than he will fall for her...hard
The Hero (Angus Hay, Earl of Erroll)
Angus, although he is very wealthy, is secluded and lives in a remote castle in Scotland. After losing his beloved wife to a fire that destroyed part of his home, and being scarred himself he knows he doesn't have a choice but living a secluded life, with his cousin, continuing on with his work, dealing with precious artifacts. When Mary shows up his life goes upside down and part of him wants to resist her, and then there is a part of him that wants to give in to the passion that fires up whenever she is near.
The Heroine (Mary Hurst)
Mary, upon receiving a letter informing her of her brother's situation she knows that she must save his life and do all that she can to get her hands on the artifact. Mary, even though her sisters have been in love and married, it has never happened for her, and now when she meets Angus, she is unexplainably drawn to him and even though he is keeping her prisoner she also finds herself falling for her captor.
My Thoughts
One Night in Scotland is the first book in the Hurst Amulet series, and I have always loved her books and this was pretty amazing, not my favorite of hers, but enthralling and was like many of her other books where it just draws you into the story vividly. One of the things that I loved about this book is how perfect both Mary and Angus seem to be for each other, even though there are some pretty heated arguments, and violent tantrums that just made me laugh, and think 'oh boy, I hope I never meet a man that makes me want to sing like a banchee or an opera singer just to get his attention'. Although once I really got into the, I started to find myself really enjoying the story, the characters, the plot and the amusing interaction between the characters, that made it a fun tale of romance with a hint of mystery that will make you not want to put the book down and keep on reading until the sun goes down.
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Favorite Quote
Angus had never been so furious in his entire life. Every word she uttered was a deliberate challenge. Well, the chit was about to get what she so desperately desired: an answer for her impertinence. He bent his head and kissed her, pouring all of his discontent, fry, and heated desire into it. He stepped away and her hands fell away from his lapels.
"Let that be a lesson to you not to try my temper"
Other Books In The Series
Scandal In Scotland
A Most Dangerous Profession
Library Loot (26)
Sunday, January 29, 2012
I Am Back!
Hey Everyone!!! I am back, I loved the break I had, and definitely something that I needed, and I am ready to start reading again and doing reviews again!!! I have really missed all of you and looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Take A Break!
Hey Everyone!!! Life has been getting too busy for me of late...and with my current projects and everything I won't have as much time to be working on my blog as much anymore...so I am going to be taking a break....I have been pretty stressed out lately and I just feel I need a break from here for a little bit I will occasionaly be one here to do a book review every now and then probably at most once a week now, but maybe less than that...I really have loved doing this blog and have loved making all the friendships I have had. I will still be active on Goodreads a bit more and feel free to email me anytime at myloveofromance@gmail.com, if you want to stay in touch.Thanks to you all who have been my ever loyal followers and made this almost 2 year journey worth it! I hope all of you enjoy this Christmas Season!!! Cheers!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Lusting For Covers (41)
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
I would not make a good husband. I do, however, make an excellent lover..."
Harrison Bainbridge, the second son of an English earl, left his home seeking a scandal-free life away from society's stuffy restraints. Then he arrives in Texas, never expecting that a sassy saloon-keeper's daughter would capture his eye. With her outspoken ways and flashing eyes, Jessye Kane is more than tempting. But although she is willing to be his partner in a daring business venture, she is unwilling to take the passion he offers.
Jessye knows that noble-born Harrison isn't for the likes of her, but beneath his devil-may-care exterior, she senses a deeper vulnerability. Then he's suddenly injured, risking his life to save her from mortal danger. And Jessye vows to do anything to make him whole again--forcing this rugged scoundrel who claims he has no heart to take the greatest risk of all...on love.
Harrison Bainbridge, the second son of an English earl, left his home seeking a scandal-free life away from society's stuffy restraints. Then he arrives in Texas, never expecting that a sassy saloon-keeper's daughter would capture his eye. With her outspoken ways and flashing eyes, Jessye Kane is more than tempting. But although she is willing to be his partner in a daring business venture, she is unwilling to take the passion he offers.
Jessye knows that noble-born Harrison isn't for the likes of her, but beneath his devil-may-care exterior, she senses a deeper vulnerability. Then he's suddenly injured, risking his life to save her from mortal danger. And Jessye vows to do anything to make him whole again--forcing this rugged scoundrel who claims he has no heart to take the greatest risk of all...on love.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Waiting On Wednesday (47)
• Tough-as-nails Troubleshooters operative Sam Starrett learns the agony of loving someone in danger--and the hell of waiting on the home front--as his wife and fellow Troubleshooter, Alyssa, hurtles into a foreign hotspot that's about to boil over.
• Navy SEAL Frank O'Leary's ill-fated holiday reunion with his older brother takes a turn for the better-when a chance encounter on a rainy New Orleans street gives him a reason to be thankful after all.
• In a maze of tunnels deep beneath a military base in Germany, Jules Cassidy, Alyssa Locke, and their comrades in arms match wits with terrorists on a mission with explosive consequences.
• Plus more never-before-released adventures featuring Jenk, Izzy, Gillman, Lopez, Kenny, Savannah, and members of SEAL Team 16--along with Suzanne Brockmann's exclusive interviews with her beloved characters.
• Looking for the best kind of trouble? You've found it!
• Navy SEAL Frank O'Leary's ill-fated holiday reunion with his older brother takes a turn for the better-when a chance encounter on a rainy New Orleans street gives him a reason to be thankful after all.
• In a maze of tunnels deep beneath a military base in Germany, Jules Cassidy, Alyssa Locke, and their comrades in arms match wits with terrorists on a mission with explosive consequences.
• Plus more never-before-released adventures featuring Jenk, Izzy, Gillman, Lopez, Kenny, Savannah, and members of SEAL Team 16--along with Suzanne Brockmann's exclusive interviews with her beloved characters.
• Looking for the best kind of trouble? You've found it!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Book Review-Breaking The Rules
Troubleshooters (16)
Suzanne Brockmann
Ballantine
Audiobook
507 Pages
Published March 2011
Suspense Romance
ISBN 9780345521224
Synopsis
Izzy Zanella wasn’t looking for another reason to butt heads with his Navy SEAL teammate, and nemesis, Danny Gillman. But then he met Danny’s beautiful younger sister, Eden. When she needed it most, he offered her a place to stay, a shoulder to cry on—and more. And when she got pregnant with another man’s child, he offered her marriage. But Eden’s devastating miscarriage shattered their life together—and made the intense bad blood between Izzy and Danny even worse.
Now Eden’s back, and she’s on a mission to rescue her teen brother, Ben, from their abusive stepfather. Even if she and Izzy can prove that their broken marriage is still in one piece, winning legal custody of Ben is a long shot. But they’re not alone: Danny and his girlfriend, Jenn, offer to help, and he and Izzy agree to bury the past and fight for Ben’s future.
As they plan their strategy, Izzy and Eden grapple with the raw passion that still crackles between them—while Danny and Jenn confront new depths in their own rocky relationship. But events take a terrifying turn after Ben befriends a girl fleeing a child prostitution ring. When the young runaway seeks refuge with Eden and Izzy, her pursuers kidnap Ben—and a deadly standoff begins. Now they must all pull together like never before and strike back, swift and hard, to protect their unconventional little family and everything they hold most precious
Izzy Zanella wasn’t looking for another reason to butt heads with his Navy SEAL teammate, and nemesis, Danny Gillman. But then he met Danny’s beautiful younger sister, Eden. When she needed it most, he offered her a place to stay, a shoulder to cry on—and more. And when she got pregnant with another man’s child, he offered her marriage. But Eden’s devastating miscarriage shattered their life together—and made the intense bad blood between Izzy and Danny even worse.
Now Eden’s back, and she’s on a mission to rescue her teen brother, Ben, from their abusive stepfather. Even if she and Izzy can prove that their broken marriage is still in one piece, winning legal custody of Ben is a long shot. But they’re not alone: Danny and his girlfriend, Jenn, offer to help, and he and Izzy agree to bury the past and fight for Ben’s future.
As they plan their strategy, Izzy and Eden grapple with the raw passion that still crackles between them—while Danny and Jenn confront new depths in their own rocky relationship. But events take a terrifying turn after Ben befriends a girl fleeing a child prostitution ring. When the young runaway seeks refuge with Eden and Izzy, her pursuers kidnap Ben—and a deadly standoff begins. Now they must all pull together like never before and strike back, swift and hard, to protect their unconventional little family and everything they hold most precious
MY REVIEW
Summary:
Eden and Izzy once fell in love with each other, and even though they are married, are on the brink of a divorce. Since Izzy only married Eden because she was pregnant and he wanted to do the right thing, and then she miscarried and they serparated and lost in touch...until now...until a danger threatens the Gillman family, that would only bring Eden and Izzy closer together. Then we have Danny and Jenn, who fell in love in the previous books, but Jenn felt like they needed more than a few days to realize they love each other, however when Danny gets injured in a bomb blast, she starts to realize what is really important in life...and she knows that her life would never be fully complete without Danny in her life.
The Heroes (Danny Gillman and Izzy Zinella )
Danny and Izzy have really been mortal enemies ever since they met each other...Danny left his family when he was seventeen to join the Navy, and even though he has had some involvement he starts to come to the fact that he should have been there for Eden and his younger brother, who are both now in deep trouble, and only with him and Izzy's help will they be able to help them against a threat they don't see coming until its almost too late.
The Heroines (Jenn and Eden)
Jenn, even though she is recovering from a troubling childhood, she has overcome it and has learned to live a normal life, however she never thought she would be good enough for Danny. Eden, has suffered much in her young life, and no one apart from Ben her younger brother has ever really been on her side. Now with Ben's life in danger, these two couples will band together to fight the evil that threatens them...
My Thoughts
Breaking The Rules would have to be one of my favorite books in the series so far!!! Ever since I read the lates one Hot Pursuit, we see the romance that blossoms between Jenn and Danny, and ever since then I have been aching for their continued story...so I was having such fun reading their love story....then Izzy and Eden....oh Izzy has always made me laugh as we have seen him throughout the series and I was glad and hoping to see these two end up together..finally... they sure have had a rough time of it. However combined with two remarkable love stories that we see in this novel, there is fast paced action and so much intrigue and suspense it just might blow you away. I know it took everything I had just to sit back and listen to this story and not skip ahead, I felt like I was at the edge of my seat 90 percent of the time. But I was ended up feeling fully satisfied in the end...A Intense Read that I Just Fell In Love With!!!!! A Jewel! (FYI- For those of you who haven't read this series and wonder if you can read it out of order...you can but I wouldn't recommend it...I would recommend you read this series in order if you can, that way you won't feel confused at times. )
My Grade On This Book
5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
The Unsung Hero
The Defiant Hero
Over The Edge
Out of Control
Into The Night
Gone Too Far
Flashpoint
Hot Target
Breaking Point
Into The Storm
Force of Nature
All Through The Night
Into The Fire
Dark of Night
Hot Pursuit
Headed For Trouble (Summer 2012)
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