November Reviews
Texas Hustle (Texas Montgomery Mavericks) by Cynthia D'Alba
Contemporary Western Romance -Nov. 24th, 2015
4 ½ stars
Porchia Summers comes from a wealthy Southern family and a tragic past. A past that has come back to haunt her in her new life. A lapse in judgement when she was a teenager caused her untold pain and estrangement from her family. But it also gave her strength. Strength she needs when an ex-con named Slade comes looking for revenge and money. He tracks her down to Texas and threatens to blackmail her and ruin her hard found reputation and new bakery. Rashly, Porchia decides to give into Slade and promises to pay him in two weeks. However, she isn’t sure where she will find the cash. Meanwhile, Porchia finds herself dragged by her friends to a bachelor fund raising auction and inadvertently bidding on the sexy and younger rancher, Darren Montgomery. As part of her winning bid, she and Darren are going camping with his large, and welcoming family. But Slade hunts her down and threats become actual violence. Soon Porchia finds herself turning to Darren and the Montgomery clan for help. But has Porchia truly changed and is she willing to take a risk on love and a fresh, new life?
This book was super steamy! Porchia is very attracted to Darren but feels being four years older is ‘robbing the cradle.’ Thankfully, Darren finally notices her attraction and gives himself the go ahead to pursue her! The two of them together are scorching!! Not only do they make the pages heat up but the two together are fun to read. I liked how they joked together and they made me laugh at their antics. But this book goes deeper as Porchia is in serious danger from the nefarious blackmailer and things turn for the worse. I enjoyed reading how Darren and his family support her -unlike her own family. The surprising depth and sense of camaraderie/family make this a well developed and heartwarming read. I especially liked learning more about other couples in the story and it made me want to know more about them, too! The Texas Montgomery Mavericks series is a winner and Texas Hustle is no exception.
This sexy, contemporary western has it all. Scorching sex, a loving family and suspenseful danger. Oh, yeah!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Reap the Wind by Karen Chance
Urban Fantasy -Nov. 3rd, 2015
4 ½ stars
Urban Fantasy fans will be thrilled at the return of Cassie Palmer. Cassie is a clairvoyant and the powerful Pythia but can she can learn to control her skills?. This latest installment bring big changes in Cassie and doesn't stint on action!
Cassie is back on the prowl and trying to find her friend and love interest the irascible, war mage Pritkin. With the dubious of aid of his father the demon, Roiser. But Cassie is running out of time for if she doesn't save him soon, Pritkin may lose his soul forever. In addition, Cassie is a wanted woman. The Circle wants to use her skills and her enemies want to kill her. And then there are the vampires and a certain sexy, Master vampire named Mircea who wants her powers and tries and manipulate her. Plus there seems to be an all out Armageddon on the horizon that she needs Pritkin's help with -once she saves him. As Cassie tries to go back in time to save Pritkin she may also have inadvertently changed things in the future -oophs! Cassie must learn to master her skills with her new acolyte and stand up for herself but will she be able to in time?
There is a lot going on in this book and it spans over five hundred pages. It is dizzying to read Cassie go back and forth in time and maddeningly as she tries to save Pritkin. Because there is so much going on there were a couple of areas I found myself lost for a short period but it was an exhilarating read. I especially liked reading about a younger Pritkin that doesn't know Cassie -one that is more carefree and (gasps) smiles! The Cassie, Mircea and Pritkin love triangle seems that it may have hit a head as Cassie asserts herself and discovers her own girl power. I loved Cassie’s new acolyte, Rhea. She brings a lot of depth to the story and holds surprising secrets. I also liked how she and Cassie learn self-confidence as how she aids Cassie in her new office. Their growing friendship was something Cassie needed now that Pritkin is seemingly out of the picture. This book has a lot of changes and ends rather triumphantly but with a bit of a cliffhanger. I can't wait read more of Cassie the bada##, Pythia.
Funny, irreverent and sheer madness this book has it all!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Born in Betrayal by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance -Nov. 3rd, 2015
4 stars
Fain Haul turned his back on his family, his future and Galene, the woman he loved in a bid to save his brother. But the personal cost has been greater than he knew. When he finds himself forced to work with the woman he never forgot -he is tormented. She hates him and has found a younger replacement. Tortured by her nearness, he is shocked to learn she has been hiding secrets from him. Can he work his way into her good graces or forever loose the woman he thought lost to him?
Galene has worked hard to climb to her position as the right hand to Queen Cairistiona. When her fiancee left her she was pregnant and alone -her family disinherited her and she was completely disgraced. Raising a son with out money and the harmful affects of her beloved son's (Talyn) lack of legitimate heritage cut deep. Talyn's lack of lineage made his life a living hell. She doesn't mind the struggles she has made so much as the pain and social stigma to her outcast son. Without true lineage, he has no hope of a real marriage or climbing to the highest stations in their race. All because her old fiancee, Fain became infatuated with a human female and left her! Now that she has attained power and her son might have a chance at happiness, Fain comes back into her life. She wants him destroyed. It is only because she loves her ruler so much that she is willing to bear being in his company. But hate is very close to love and Galene discovers to her horror that the feeling she thought dead maybe be resurfacing... But can she risk him betraying her again?
After reading Born in Defiance - Talyn's story about how tortured he was growing up without a father, I felt it difficult to warm up to Fain. While this story is technically Fain's, I felt I was learning more about Galene. I always wondered about Talyn's mother and I loved learning how strong and protective she is. She has had to struggle and finally having a career where she has power and respect seemed well deserved. It wasn't until the second half of the book do we really get to know more about Fain and his reasons for abandoning Galene. Because I cared so much for Talyn I almost didn't want Galene to make up with Fain! But Fain is patient and doesn't push Galene and after a while I felt sorry for him. Galene and Talyn have so much love it seemed wrong to exclude him. Most of Sherrilyn's heroes are tortured by birth or circumstances. But Fain is one of the few that are responsible for their own downfall. So he isn't quite the underdog that you root for in the beginning. I'm not sure if Sherrilyn Kenyon was able to make him completely sympathetic or his reasons for abandoning Galene that logical but in the end this story wasn't really about Fain for this reader. This was more about Talyn and his mother. And I enjoyed reading more about their dynamics and how they were able to make a life from ashes and becoming strong. For me, the romance was secondary to the sense of family in the story.
Galene is a heroine you will absolutely love. And reading more about the sexy Talyn is extra icing on the cake!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Talent for Trickery by Alissa Johnson
Historical Romance -Nov 3rd, 2015
4 stars
Charlotte Walker comes from a family of thieves and criminals. Her beloved father the instigator of many crimes. However, in the last days of his life, Lottie believed her father had turned a new leaf and was working with law enforcement instead of against it. When her father died saving a Duchess, Lottie is devastated. And feels betrayed by the man she loved. For Owen Renderwell, took all the credit for the rescue while her father died still branded a criminal. Now Lottie and her family live in the country under an assumed name. Safe from their past until Owen returns and asks for her help finding a murderer that her father may have known. Old feelings and attractions return but Lottoe can't make herself trust Owen. But when her family is threatened Lottie realizes that Owen is the only person she would turn to for help. Can she trust her heart again?
This book is not the typical romance. Lottie is not the genteel lady she pretends and her upbringing make her a very savvy and independent heroine. But her two big weaknesses are the love of her family and her dratted attraction to the unscrupulous Owen. When Owen shows up at her doorstep asking for aid and promptly brings danger to her family she is torn by her desire for his company and her protectiveness towards her family. Owen is now a premiere investigator along with his two good friends. He cares for Lottie deeply but knows their differences in stations as well as upbringing make any serious relationship an uphill battle. At first, I had a little difficulty getting invested into the character but by about one fourth way through I found I suddenly couldn't put this book down. I think this was because both characters hide much of themselves and the mystery behind the murderer and Lottie’s father gets deeper and darker. I liked how I grew to know each character and learn to respect them. The promise of their previous romance grew and became more substantial as the book progressed. Owen initially appears standoffish until you realize it is because he feels so much. I particularly enjoyed reading the sections that reveal on how he felt about Charlotte and discovered that she needed to be independent. When he loosened up and Charlotte was able to voice her fears for her family the story really became a fascinating romance.
This slow romance builds on its characters and rewards the reader with a satisfying mystery, too.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Viking Warrior Rising by Asa Maria Bradley
Paranormal Romance -Nov 3rd, 2015
4 ½ stars
Naya and her brother have a tragic past. Torn from their family and experimented on by a covert ops group, they are a mystery even to themselves. Their contaminated blood makes Naya faster, stronger and gives her special skills that she hides. After rescuing her ailing brother from the further unknown experiments Naya finds herself suddenly thrust into a world of violence, mythical gods and hunky immortals. When she saves their king, Leif Skarsganger from death. Soon she finds herself an unwilling member of their closely-knit, immortal clan. For Naya is actually Leif's sjaelsfraende -his fated mate. As such Leif feels the need to finish their bond, which will make their band of warriors stronger. But Naya's main goals in life are to stay free and cure her brother from the damage done to him in the labs. She doesn't want any part of the this supposed war that Leif and his warriors fight against the God Loki. However, Leif’s protective nature and chiseled good looks make Naya want more. As she finds herself involved in their world she finds meaning and the real possibility that she has found someone that accepts her and loves her instead of thinking her a freak. If only she can open her heart and grasp for it.
This exciting book filled with tall, hunky Nordic men is a long time in coming. Leif and his band of warriors are super bada## and hot! I can't wait for the next installment. I liked the idea of Viking immortals. And how the berserker inside them gives them extra powers but also drives them to claim their mate -so hot! Leif alone has vast oceans of sexual appeal and reader will be sure to sigh him. His other warrior are the steamy icing on the cake. But what I liked most was how evenly matched Naya and Leif were. I particularly liked that Naya could perfectly well take care of herself even though Leif wants to protect her. I also enjoyed reading how smart and sneaky Naya is and how Leif admired her looks but her skills and brains and isn’t threatened by her competence. (Sometimes it gets tiring reading the naïve, weak heroine that the hero does everything for.) It was intense reading Leif battle his berserker for control since he feels a drive to claim Naya but knows she needs space to get to know him. The more I read, the more I wanted to know not just about the main characters be even the secondary ones, too. This series is very promising and the author has built a unique world of sexy warriors that will thrill readers looking for something a bit different in the paranormal venue. Privileged
This book is hot primal and filled with edgy danger. I simply loved it.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Rock Me Two Times by Dawn Ryder
Contemporary Romance -Nov. 3rd, 2015
4 stars
Syon Branden has worked hard to make his rock band Toxsin famous. He loves the women, the accolades and the money. But all that changes when a wardrobe malfunction in his custom leather pants calls for an emergency seamstress and designer, Kate Napier.
Kate Napier loves leather and when she is called in a a favor to fix a tear in a leather pant for th famous Syon Branden she is rocked by their instant attraction. Unfortunately, she doesn’t trust bad boys rockers. She’s been burned before and learned her lesson the hard way. But Syon pursues Kaate and the more she resists the more he wants her. But not everyone thinks that Kate is good for Syon or the band. And they are determined to sabotage any lasting relationship.
Syon and Kate have explosive chemistry. It is only a matter of time before they are hot and heavy. Warning there is a menage a trois in this book! But while this is hot, hot, hot! The author still manages to pay particular attention to the character development. The reader will be intrigued by the other members of the band. Wild and sexy these men are a adored by women that literally throw themselves at them. Their sexual appeal is off the charts. Kate is a workaholic that relishes her designs in leather. She is also ethical and has a big heart. But tries to hide it. I liked how unassuming she is about her abilities and her drive to be the best. The best sections of the book are how Syon chases her and convinces her to take a chance on him. Syon is strangely a very solid reliable character for all that he is a rocker bad boy. He is pure animal magnetism and drives the band and the story. Dawn Ryder has created a character that readers will wish were real.
This erotically charged romances fires on all cylinders. Do not miss it!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
October Reviews
One Touch of More by Mandy Baxter
Contemporary Romance -Oct 27th, 2015
4 stars
One Touch of More is part of Mandy Baxter’s steamy U.S. Marshals Novels but can easily be read by itself.
In this Beauty and the Beast type story, hotel manager Tabitha is young beautiful and unfortunately very naive. When she fell for her wayward brother’s shifty friend. She never knew how much she would regret it. Her ex is actually a drug smuggling low-life. And he has blackmailed her and her brother into working in his criminal world. He uses Tabitha’s connections to the hotel as a location for some of his ‘business dealings.’ Although Tabitha longs to turn him in she is wary of the damage he could do to her brother and herself. However, all this changes when sexy Damien Evans comes to visit the hotel . She is shocked how much she is attracted to the tall, tattooed bad boy. The type of man that she has sworn off. But something about Damien makes her wants to trust him even when it looks like has become chummy with her dangerous ex. As she feels herself getting dragged deeper into a world of corruption the stakes get higher. She can’t help wanting to lean into Damien's strong, capable arms but she fears she’s been wrong in her judgement before.
Marshal Damien is used to being immersed in his job and this latest undercover assignment is getting him close to a drug ring he has wanted to close down for a long time. Unfortunately, he is majorly distracted by the lovely hotel manager, Tabitha. She pulls out his protective instincts - something he though long dead. When he discovers she may be part of the criminal ring he must decide what is more important. His job or the beautiful woman that has snuck into his heart.
Damien is one good, bad dude. He exudes a strength and purpose that lets you know he will get the job done -no matter what. Capable and strong I loved how he comes to rescue Tabitha. Although Damien is tough and rough on the outside Tabitha brings out his softer side. Tabitha is sweet and trying to what she can in a terrible situation. She isn’t used to the cold, cruel world she has been dragged into and Damien seems like a pillar of strength. Poor Tabitha is definitely out of her depth but she still manages to show resilience and loyalty. I felt that Tabitha’s softness and kindness was something that the hardened Damien needed. After living in the underbelly of crime for so long he has sort of lost his real self. With Tabitha he instinctively knows he can be normal and not the persona he has lived for years. While Damien saves Tabitha physically. She saves him mentally. I liked that each saw something in each other that no one else did. Plus it doesn’t hurt that their chemistry is off the chart.
This tense, sexy thriller is a welcome addition to the U.S. Marshals series.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The House by Christina Lauren
YA Paranormal Romance -Oct. 6th, 2015
4 stars
Delilah has always been different from other teenage girls. She is fascinated by the strange and macabre. Now back in public high school after her father lost his job, she meets her old crush Gavin. Dark and moody, Gavin mesmerizes her. She pursues him. But while Gavin slowly begins to return her affection he has a secret that may keep them from ever being together. For Gavin doesn’t have real parents. He actually lives in sentient House that takes care of him. And it is very possessive! Gavin having a girlfriend that will take up his time and lure from the House is not something is likes or tolerates....
This book is a big departure from the authors contemporary romances. It has a darker theme and is tamer sexually. The House is an ominous force that holds many mysteries -and best aprt of the plot. As Gavin and Delilah try to break free from the House they face many dangers that make this a fast-paced absorbing read.
There are many questions. What happened to Gavin’s real mother? How will they escape and find a future together? The story gets more frightening and the stakes get higher. I liked how Gavin and Delilah lean on each other. But the action figure of the novel is Delilah. She pursues Gavin and is the more assertive and aggressive character. Delilah is indomitable, even fearless. I liked how self-sufficient she is. While House takes care of Gavin, Delilah has had to fend for herself in a way. Her parents provide food and a roof over her head but are not there emotionally for her. She basically seems to take care of herself and now Gavin. The only quibble in the story for me is that I never felt that the relationship between Gavin and Delilah fully developed. Gavin was a crush realized and someone Delilah could save but I wasn’t sure is she was really in love with him.
Readers that enjoy romance and scary reads will be thrilled by this YA paranormal novel.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Silver Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear
Paranormal Romance- Oct 6th, 2015
4 stars
A Silver Wolf Christmas is another shifter hit by Terry Spear. But in addition to action and romance it has a murder mystery that will keep readers guessing.
Laurel MacTire and her sisters have renovated hotels before but the hotel in Silver Town is different. The stakes are higher as Laurel and her sisters are doing some amateur sleuthing, too. Supposedly their aunt worked at the Silver Town hotel as a maid and then suddenly disappeared. The sisters are on a quest to find her murderer. They suspect someone in Silver Town is responsible. But Laurel can't help feeling the friendly deputy CJ Silver is someone she can trust.
CJ Silver is a shifter with his eyes set on the new she-wolf Laurel. But her quiet reserve makes him question a mutual attraction. However, he has decided to help her and her sisters in any way he can as they fix the hotel. When suspicious ghost hunting men come to the hotel and demand a place to stay it brings out his protective instincts. But Laurel and her sisters have secrets that CJ will have to solve if he is to have any chance of her staying and being a part of his life.
This book has all the trappings of an excellent mystery. The romance was good but I kept reading to solve the mystery behind the disappearance of the sisters aunt. The author cleverly has some twists and turns that I didn't see coming. Laurel is smart and holds her cards close. She finds herself liking CJ far too much but despite her fears she decides to trust him. There are many characters and that add greatly to the storyline -and the suspect list. Even the ghost hunters have a secret agenda and I would like to know more about them in future books.
CJ and Laurel make a very sweet couple. CJ isn't the overbearing alpha type. He gives Laurel space and time to choose him. In fact, CJ is quite the charmer and is able to quickly insinuate himself in Laurels life despite her trying to stay distant from a community that may have been responsible for her aunt’s death. I liked reading Laurel slowly soften toward CJ as the book progressed and how they worked together to find out the mystery behind her aunt's disappearance. Laurel and her sister have lived rather isolated lives and with the Silver pack they are able to bond and play more. I hope Laurel's two sister also find love in Silver Town, too. The sisters lives have seemed lonely without other pack members to support them and isolated. Readers will be pleased as the author wraps up a surprising and heart-felt ending
This book is well worth the read for those who love a good mystery and love paranormal romance.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Wicked Ever After by Delilah S. Dawson
Paranormal Romance Oct. 5th, 2015
4 stars
In Wicked Ever After, the author returns to her Land of Sang novels about an alternate universe filled with dangerous vampires called Blud. Tish is from our world and has a little of the gift. One day she finds herself magically transported from modern earth to Sang through a locket. There she meets and falls in love with the incomparable Criminy Stain. A Bludman that owns a traveling circus. He wants her to become a Bludwoman (so she will stop growing older) but Tish feels she must stay human until her beloved grandmother dies. However, when she visits earth to see her grandmother she finds her near death. Heartbroken and desperate she changes her grandmother into a Bludwoman to save her and brings her to Sang. But while her grandmother becomes younger, her personality drastically changes. She leaves Tish! Tish is worried and runs after her but finds herself and her grandmother in some serious hot water. When Criminy becomes threatened Tish finds a ruthlessness that she never knew she had. For she will do anything to keep him safe.
This was story was more entertaining than the couple’s first book, Wicked as They Come. It has many interesting twists and turns. It also features an edge of danger and wildness about it. The heroine is sweet, if a little misguided. Tish has always been the soft, caring push-over. Putting others’ needs ahead of her own. It was shocking to read how ungrateful her grandmother was and how poorly she treated Tish once her youth and health returned. I felt terrible for Tish. Thankfully Tish has the suave and sexy Criminy to support her. But I really enjoyed this book because Tish's journey was also the making of her as she is forced to stand up for herself and Criminy. Tish grows some serious backbone in this story and through it all Criminy is there for her. As Tish tries to find and aid her grandmother she realizes what is most important to her. I liked how Tish’s personality evolved and made her more equal to the devilishly clever Criminy. But be warned, this book is also a bit gory as Tish gets her revenge. But fans of this series will love this book. I especially loved the happy epilogue at the end. It is satisfying to read characters you invest in get their just deserts. As part of a series it still can be read alone but I would highly recommend reading their first book to appreciate it more and so not to have to play catch up in the first section of the story.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
September Reviews
Love Somebody Like You by Susan Fox
Contemporary Western Romance -Sept. 29th, 2015
5 stars
Love Somebody Like You is a rare, heartwarming romance that you will wish more writers would write. It makes you admire the simple courage and sweet thoughtfulness of a deeply satisfying novel.
As the sixth book in the Caribou Crossing series, Susan Fox is only getting better. Readers will become quickly invested and curious about the quiet and remarkable characters the author has created in Caribou Crossing. It can be easily read by itself but be warned you will want to read the previous book once you start this highly addictive series!
Sally Ryland is a horse trainer/teacher extraordinaire. But she has a shameful secret. While everyone in Caribou Crossing believes she and her dead husband were the ideal couple, they were wrong. Now that her husband is dead she only feels relief. For Sally was an abused wife and now she doesn't have to live under his controlling rules or physical violence. Ashamed that she never fought back or left him, she still keeps their abusive relationship a dark secret. All she has left is her beloved ranch were she teaches children how to ride horses. But her business is running into debt. Unfortunately, when she left with her husband to Caribou Crossing her family and friends deserted her. Fortunately it is only years later when she feels more able to be truly independent that an old friend unexpected comes to visit.
Her visitor is the younger and very sexy Ben Traynor. Ben was asked by Sally's estranged sister to stop by and check on her. But Ben has another reason for seeing Sally. He was injured in his last rodeo and needs a break to rest his shoulder. Plus he always had a powerful crush on Sally and wants to see if she might be amenable to a little fling. However, the Sally Ben remembers is now a muted copy of the one he knew. Still attractive she guarded and somehow tired. Ben senses something is wrong. He decides to stay despite her protests and help her in return for staying at her ranch. Soon Ben has a suspicion that the once teasing and exuberant Sally night have been abused. And he suspects he knows by who. As Ben gently teaches Sally she can trust him their relationship grows into something more than a potential fling. They become caring friends. But Sally knows that Ben's life is with the rodeo- a job that requires traveling. And she loves her ranch. Will they find a second chance together or will Sally misgivings about her judgment in men and fear of commitment ruin her future happiness?
This book will make you laugh and cry. The characters grow slowly on you like fine wine. Until they feel like old friends. I loved how they have a mutual attraction but it is only until they build a strong friendship that they finally become intimate. Ben is a tough, strong guy but he is gentle with Sally. He would never hit her and his actions and patience won not only Sally but me, too! He never pressures Sally but lets her know she is attractive. I especially liked how he used humor and gently teasing to get her to finally open up. Sally has been through so much. When her husband died she was glad and it took her years to finally become independent. However, she is still afraid of letting herself be attractive and have fun. Plus she doesn't trust her judgment in men anymore. Ben pushes Sally in a good, solid way that is not threatening and makes her want to try be a little of the old Sally again. I liked that she started taking an interest in her looks and dressing up and how he even bought her a fancy shirt and did little things like cook for her. Even before Sally married both had an attraction to each other and I I kept wondering if Sally's husband hadn't swept her off her feet if Ben and Sally would eventually become a couple. They seem that meant for each other. However, because that have aged and had life experiences their love in this gentle romance is even more precious.
This book will tug at your heart strings and keep you thinking about the characters long after the last page. A keeper!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Name of the Game by Jennifer Dawson
Contemporary Romance -Sept. 29th, 2015
5 stars
The Name of the Game by Jennifer Dawson is the latest in her Something New series. The Donovan family loves each of its family members but James Donovan has always felt the odd man out. While his other brothers have been athletic and popular, James has been the weak, awkward brother. His interest were more prone toward the intellectual. Then he took his life back and remade himself with sheer will-power when his father died. Now he likes control and organization and wants a woman that is his mental match. However, he can’t stop thinking about the buxom and beautiful baker, Gracie Roberts. She is so completely his opposite -but that doesn’t stop him from wanting her! And whenever they are together they fight like cat and mouse. But a blonde bombshell like her would never go for him.
Gracie is confident in her sexuality and can handle any man. But why can’t she stand the oh-so-proper Professor, James Donovan? As a baker she loves cooking and can’t understand a man that drinks health shakes or won’t try her delicious food. Plus he always seem to look his nose down at her lifestyle. But all of a sudden he has started being nice and now she feels she must be, too. For she doesn't want their fighting to ruin her lovely friend's marriage. But when their arguing ceases, Gracie starts to feel anther sort of tension -sexual. And she realizes that she needs to get rid of that itch if she wants to get James out her system. But instead of jumping on her when she proposes a fling James is intent on seducing her instead. And soon they find something that may be love if only they would admit it to each other!
This was a zany, funny and sexy romance! James is used to having control in everything. Except he can’t control his attraction the frustrating whirlwind that is Gracie. Although James seems very content with his life he still carries a small ball of vulnerability when he compares himself to his popular jock brothers. While he prides himself on being fit he never attracted any of the popular girls in school. Someone like Gracie. When he realizes that Gracie might actually be attracted to him he can’t at first believe it. When he does he realizes he doesn't want to be just another part of the pack panting over her. He is determined to make her want him as much as he wants her! It was fun to read him seduce her with his prowess and keep the sexiest woman in her town lusting after him! Gracie knew from a young age that her beauty was something that she had to protect herself with. She expertly plays men but never lets them get close. Fun loving and warm-hearted no man has ever, truly caught her interest until the infuriating Professor. When she finally figures out her animosity toward him is because she is attracted to him and wants his attention she can’t believe it. It was sweet to read her awkwardness toward him and his toward her when they finally admit they might care for each other. They are an endearing and sweet couple. This book also packs a lot of heat as James won’t got to bed with Gracie until he is sure that she can’t stand his ‘teasing’ anymore. I loved reading this unlikely pair’s passion, vulnerability and wonder as they finally found love together.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Dark Wild Night by Christina Lauren
Contemporary Romance -Sept 15th, 2015
4 ½ stars
Lover of sweet and sexy contemporary romance will fall in love with this book about young lovers who are best friends. This book is part of the author’s Wild Seasons series but can be easily and joyfully read by itself.
Lola and Oliver married in Vegas when they were drunk. However, they spent the short time they were married talking! They agreed that they were better friends. Now divorced they have become best friends. But because they never consummate the marriage there has always been a bit of underlying sexual tension in their relationship- although they would deny it. Things come to a head when Lola sells her superhero story and gives right to make it into a movie. It means a lot of money, prestige and pressure. Lola’s life seems to be spiraling out of control and the only person really there for her is Oliver. Soon she is find some wild ‘comfort’ in his arms. But with so many deadlines and commitments Oliver is proving to be a terrible distraction. Lola is new to relationships and makes some stupid mistakes. Will she throw away a once in a lifetime love because of her own insecurities?
Dark Wild Night is my absolute favorite book by Christina Lauren! Oliver and Lola have a chemistry as best friends but it skyrockets when they become much more. You will cheer them on. They obviously care for each other deeply but are sooo scared to push further and potentially ruin their wonderful friendship. Both were lonely geeks that have become strong independent people. Lola found her a safe world as a child inventing stories and now her stories are famous. But this new found fame also brings tremendous pressure and doubts. Especially when she and Oliver start becoming serious. For Lola’s mother walked out on her and her father. And although she wants a relationship with Oliver she fears the same will happen again. Since Oliver is so important to her she doesn’t know if she can stand the heartache. Meanwhile Oliver is smart, funny and sensitive. (More of a beta male except when it comes to the bedroom!) He wants more from Lola but wants it to be for the right reasons. If he starts a relationship with Lola he wants it to last. She means so much to him that he couldn’t ever treat it like a fling and go back to their old friendship. This book has a great deal of emotion and is a bit of a roller coaster. Will they or won’t they make a move toward each other? They are so obviously in love with each other you want to them find to break through each other’s walls. Sometimes it was frustrating wondering if they will make it past their insecurities but also very sweet and endearing.
If you are looking for a book with deserving characters and tons of romantic and sexual tension this one is for you!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Rogue You Know by Shana Galen
Historical Romance -Sept. 1st, 2015
4 stars
This delightful romp will keep you entertained and charmed by the feisty heroine and rakish hero.
Lady Susanna Derring is the perfectly, boring, English lady. Cowed by her domineering mother Susanna finally realizes that she wants more from her life. She wants to experienced the world outside of her sheltered life. When a handsome thief, named Gideon Harrow, breaks into their residence to steal a necklace. Susanna catches the thief and his bounty. But Susanna seizes the moment and blackmails Gideon. She has plans to visit Vauxhall Gardens and she will hold his necklace until he escorts her there. Susanna hopes the gardens will reveal secrets to her mother’s past and give her a night of adventure. But what she doesn’t count on is how charming and seductive Gideon is. As Susanna tries to persuade Gideon to help her she becomes free of society’s constraints and finds love in his strong arms. But will class differences prevent their relationship from being anything else than a romantic dream?
Susanna is sweet, impetuous and kind. Something that attracts Gideon. A man that has lived a cold life on the streets he sees in Susanna something pure. Something he can’t resist. When Gideon is ‘persuaded’ to escort her to Vauxhall Gardens he see how she adopts a mutt and saves a child. Softer things that touch his hardened heart. And while he tries to protect her he finds himself falling madly in love but knows their time together is borrowed. Susanna is desperate to discover secrets from her mother’s past and Gideon is someone she doesn’t feel guilty blackmailing to help her. However, she is surprised by the caring man beneath the devil-may-care attitude. As they become closer Gideon can’t help himself from kissing Susanna which leads to much more. I enjoyed this fun adventure. At first the beginning seemed improbable. Susanna is so docile and uptight the thought of her blackmailing a tough street thief like Gideon seemed incredible. Plus Gideon didn’t seem the most trustworthy of men. But the author makes the characters work and brings out the best in each of them. Without Gideon, Susanna would have stayed the proper young lady, never realizing independence. And without Susanna, Gideon would have become more hardened and money hungry. Reading them learn about each other, grow and find love was sweet indeed.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Drafter by Kim Harrison
Urban Fantasy -Sept. 1st, 2015
4 ½ stars
Like a tornedo, the Drafter will sweep you away. The book’s plot twists you around and keeps you exhilarated and edgy.
Peri Reed is a rare drafter. Part of a special ops team that can time travel to correct terrible tragedies. But once a drafter goes back in time their memories are lost. Thankfully she has Jack. He loves her and is her anchor. The one that brings her back from the trauma and helps her reconstruct memories of the time that she has lost. But trouble happens on their last mission when their target shows them a list of corrupt Opti agents. And Peri is one of them. Peri knows she would never use her abilities irresponsibly. The man must be wrong, because if it were true her past three years as an Opti agent are a lie. However, something the man says makes her think. But to save her life Peri must go back in time and forgets memories of the supposed corruption. Drafters aren’t supposed to remember the recent past when they go back in time. However, this time Peri is having vague feelings of discomfort about what Jack tells her before she time traveled. When she is brought in to be reexamined by the company she discovers the ultimate betrayal. Not only by the boss she trusted but Jack, the man she loves. To escape she makes a terrible deal and time travels again only to have her memory swiped, but this time years are erased. Scared, alone and confused. Peri finds herself on the run she and ‘bumps’ into man named Silas from the Alliance. He claims that Opti is evil and she is part of it. That they need to work together to uncover the truth. But Peri isn’t sure who she can trust.
This book is fast paced and will keep you guessing. There are so many holes in Peri’s memories that the reader isn’t sure what is a really the true past or one reconstructed by an anchor to keep her under their control. Peri is extremely valuable due to her rare skills and it seems everyone wants to use her. It is maddening to try to figure out with Peri what is the truth. Peri has a strong sense of justice and I loved that she knew deep down she could never be corrupt. But who should she believe when she knows everyone wants to use her? What exactly is the shadowy Alliance and how does Silas seem to know her? Did Jake really love her or really just love the money she could bring? The tension, twists and turns and harrowing danger make this book an adrenaline rush to read. The author leaves a lot unsaid and the ending is a shocker. However, the ending is not a cliffhanger but brings new possibilities and will keep you up wondering what the heck the heroine will do next!
Fantastic non-stop action and a trippy plot that will keep you on the edge of your toes. You will get addicted to the rush of the new urban fantasy series.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Drifter by Anna Schmidt
Historical Romance -Sept. 1st, 2015
4 stars
This heart-felt western has many plot twists and an endearing hero.
Maria Porterfield feels overwhelmed. Her father has died and now she is solely responsible for her beloved ranch. She needs help and isn't sure who to trust. When the handsome stranger, Chet arrives she feels an instant connection and wants to trust him. Chet seems perfect and as they become closer Maria finds herself falling for him. But Chet comes with his own baggage. Soon an impetuous young woman arrives and claims he is the father of her child. Chet denies these accusations but Maria is aware she hasn't known him very long. Plus she is being pressured to sell her ranch. Maria isn’t sure who to trust or ask for support but she want it to be Chet. Is he the right man for her?
This heartwarming western has strong characters that will endure in your memory. Maria has had to become independent but even she knows that she can’t do it alone. She needs help she can trust to help her run the ranch. With Chet she finally feels she has a strong shoulder she can lean on. But their fragile trust is tested when a selfish woman claims that Chet is the father of her child and deserted. However, this doesn't seem like the responsible Chet that Maria has grown to care for. As Maria struggles to save her ranch and figure out her relationship with Chet their personal drama becomes very compelling. I found myself becoming very emotionally involved with both Chet and Maria. Chet especially finds himself in a terrible predicament because he tries so hard to help people and they take advantage of his generosity. Chet is a hero readers will love. He is honorable, kind and tough enough that other men will think twice before challenging him. Maria and Chet are good people that complement each other. Unfortunately, circumstances make them finding a life together more challenging but exciting reading- a bit of a western soap opera. Fans of westerns and three-dimensional characters will enjoy this story and looking for more from this author.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club