December Reviews
Roomies by Christina Lauren
Contemporary Romance -Dec. 5th. 2017
4 stars
Sweet, sexy and sassy! Christina Lauren really knows how to get the readers attention. In her latest contemporary romance, an infatuated girl and a displaced musician find love in a most unexpected way.
Holland Bakker is supposed to be a rational, intelligent woman. But her hormones are screaming when it comes the mysterious musician that plays at her local subway. This is something so romantic about the charismatic, guitarist that keeps her coming back. When she gets drunk and makes the rash decision to just ‘see’ Calvin she can’t help herself from talking to him. Then she has an unfortunate accident at the subway that begins a cascade of events that leads Holland into marrying Calvin to prevent him from being deported. As they pretend to be in love to keep Calvin in the states, Holland soon finds herself emotionally in over her head. Because soon their living together starts to feel real. But what happens when Calvin hits it big? Will he just be grateful to her or is does he really care for her, too?
Holland is sweet, a bit naive and a completely adorable heroine. She isn’t sure about her life but she knows there is something about the musician at the subway station that draws her in. It’s love at first sight. Thankfully Calvin is also a kind and caring person, too. Together they have a freshness and a kind of wonder that makes them utterly charming. With Calvin, Holland slowly learns more about herself and finds focus in her career. I liked how they were both creative and supportive of each other. Plus they were really funny together. This engaging novel is filled with angst and plenty of laughs.
A quick read to warm you on the cold winter nights.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Pathways by Mercedes Lackey
Fantasy -Dec. 5th, 2017
4 stars
Pathways is the eleventh anthology in the hugely popular Valdemar series created by Mercedes Lackey. For fans of this series it will be easy to jump right into the new characters and their adventures. However, if you are not familiar with these books I would highly recommend reading the first books to orient yourself.
This anthology has a little bit of everything. While I enjoyed the reading the novellas I had expected for more stories that involved the Heralds specifically. However, many of the shorts revolved around the 'common' person and their association with the Heralds. Less magic and adventure than I had hoped. Because of this, some of the stories weren't as exciting or involving. The gem of the book is the last novella is written by Mercedes Lackey. It is by far the most enjoyable short in the anthology. Of course, this made we wish that she had written more!
Stand out shorts in the book include Jennifer Brozek's Reborn, told from the point of a young companion who rebels to save her Chosen. As well as Phaedra Weldon's A Herald's Duty, where a distressed Herald must prioritize between two claims on his life. His duty to his job or solving the mystery of his missing son.
This anthology is solid read but after reading them it made me long to re-read the meatier and more compelling original books that started this beloved series. Die hard fans will definitely enjoy more glimpses into the world of Valdemar but since these are shorts and mainly take place in the everyday life of Valdemar they aren't as exciting as the full length books.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
November Reviews
The Complete Sookie Stackhouse Stories
Nov. 21st, 2017 Charlaine Harris
4 stars
For fans of Sookie Stackhouse the wait is finally over. As all the author’s short stories with Sookie have finally been compiled into one book! While I’m a fan, I've only read two thirds of these stories so it was a delicious treat to re-read or revisit Sookie's world. (If only there were more!) This book spans from the very beginning to nearly the end of the series and include ten novellas.
This compilation contains many mysteries which Sookie is asked to solve with her mind reading skills. (Too bad the author didn't have Sookie change her career from a waitress to a private eye!) Favs from this anthology include the short, Two Blondes where Sookie and Pam go on a trip together and find more trouble than they ever expected. I liked this short in particular because Pam who often seems to dislike Sookie is actually somewhat affectionate! Another story named Gift Wrap, tells how Sookie’s fairy grandfather gives her a very special present during the holidays. Fairy Dust and Lucky are great paranormal mysteries. All of these stories had a lot humor and surprises.
While the Sookie books have always made Sookie the 'straight woman' to the craziness around her, I forgot how clever she actually is. This book reminds of the magical time when I first discovered her books not how they ended. An amusing, happy trip down memory lane. The joy and sweet innocence Sookie shows carries the stories. I especially enjoyed reading interesting facts about secondary characters which makes for a fun read. Overall, this book made me a bit melancholy. I hadn’t realized how much missed the early Sookie books. Also, I’m not sure if all the shorts should have been compiled in an expensive hardcover since they have been released before.
Joy, humor and sheer outrageous make this compilation one to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Throne of Amenkor -Anthology Joshua Palmatier
Fantasy -Nov. 14th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
In this complete trilogy by Joshua Palmatier, readers of epic fantasies will be swept away into a world of imagination and dark desperation. Fans of Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn trilogy will also be sure enjoy this new set.
The city of Amenkor is ruled by a mysterious and all powerful Mistress. But something happened years ago when a strange fire consumed the city. This fire soon brought devastation and destruction as well as rumored madness to their Mistress. In the Drudge, a girl called Varis is just trying to survive. She preys on people that she sees as Red or 'bad.' But curiously, no one else has her skills to discern the good or bad of people's nature. When she becomes a helper to one the Seekers of the Mistress she finds herself drawn in to a world of power she does not understand. The Seeker is actually an assassin who is commanded by the Mistress to execute those who need justice. This is how the Mistress protects her citizens. But the Mistress's all seeing eyes seem to be failing. Even Varis's new friend the Seeker does not feel as confident in his Mistress as he appears. What is happening in their seat of power? Soon Varis finds herself recruited yet again to help a merchant where she catches the eye of a powerful man. A man who has discovered her power and wants to use it. But will Varis have the intelligence and strength to watch for herself and protect the people and city she cares for?
Exciting, bleak, and powerful. As my first introduction to Joshua Pamattier's books was impressive. This series won't be my last book from the author. This series will addict fans of action and life and death strife. Varis isn't the typical character she already has a vast amount of street smarts and cynicism. Her strength, intelligence and resourcefulness make you root for her. But it is her surprising heart and hidden compassion for what she faces that makes you love her. Against terrible odds she becomes her own person and I enjoyed reading her journey. The world she inhabits is fascinating. There is a lot of intrigue, history and characters. But somehow, the author masterfully is able to keep it easy to follow and immerse the reader in the woes of Amenkor. The only thing is the author doesn't completely explain the Fire that burned Amenkor and I suspect there may be future books that will delve further. While there are a few loose ends that don't quite explain the 'magic' of this world I found myself drawn to Varis's sheer determination and was swept away by the story. Having all the three books together was a wonderful introduction to Joshua Pamattier and I was glad I didn't have to wait to find out what would happen to her next.
A thoroughly rousing and entertaining series that I will not forget.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Take Down by Tara Wyatt and Harper St. George
Contemporary Romance -Nov. 14th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
Hot and steamy, the Blood and Glory series is all that and more. Oh, yeah! This sexy novel can be easily read stand alone but watch out! It is satisfyingly addictive.
Gabriel Maddox is the MMA champion for a good reason. He eat,s breathes and sleeps for the next fight. The MAA is his life. Because he refuses to think of anything else, including his past. When he is asked to be interviewed he agrees and is stunned by how attracted he is to journalist Megan Sinclair. But Gabe likes to keep things simple. Namely -work out until the next fight and no strings attached sex. With Megan his internal alarm tell shim it would be different. He wouldn't be able to forget her. The problem is Megan is covering the MMA and he keeps bumping into her. Eventually their attraction can't be denied. But when both become attached the fall out could be brutal....
This sizzling book is primitive and wild. Gabe and Megan have an undeniable attraction that rocks the pages. Gabe is a dominant and Megan loves playing his submissive. There is something very primal about Gabe that makes him a heartthrob. And he doesn't intend to try to change who is. But for Megan and Gabe to move forward they will have to open up to their vulnerabilities. Megan has suffered greatly in her young life. She wants Gabe and isn't afraid to let him know it. If there is one thing she has learned -life is meant to be lived. But Gabe is like a stone wall when it comes to his past and the more they are together the more she wants.
At first I thought Megan was too sweet for Gabe but does she prove strong when she lets him know what she wants! I liked reading Gabe realize he must come to terms with his past if he wants to have any future with Meghan. The authors have created a memorable novel and I hope this new series continues for a long, long, time to come.
A sweating hunky man, who could want more?!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
October Reviews
Touch of Red by Laura Griffin
Romantic Suspense -Oct. 31st, 2017
4 ½ stars
Brooke Porter works at the renowned Delphi Center where she tries to find clues to help the police solve crimes. But this time it's personal, she thinks a young child is involved. She will put her own life in danger to save an innocent. Thankfully, Sean Byrne is a homicide detective that is determined to watch out for her. And he hopes he and Brooke might become something more than colleagues! However, Brooke is wary of men and officially on a break. As Brooke finds herself deeper into the investigation, she and Sean must lean on each other if they want to discover the truth. But as they share more time together, Brooke may soon find she must make a decision about her ‘break’ from men!
This romantic suspense has it all!! Brooke is determined, smart and an extremely likeable heroine. Her strong sense of justice and tenacious attitude drive the story. The reader will immediately be fascinated by the clues she uses to solve the crime. I especially liked how she seemed to be one step ahead of the police. But her often reckless behavior (namely lack of fear for her safety) ratchets the tension to an all time high. So it was nice she had a sexy detective looking out for her AND believing in her. Sean is a tough cop but it doesn't make him an overly macho one. I liked that he didn't try to use his official capacity to bully his agenda. He is a protector and warrior. His recent injury has given him a new perspective on life and what is important. He realizes that Brooke is a woman of rare integrity and grit. Someone who will challenge him. And he is smart enough to pursue her! The attraction between them is scorching hot and although the mystery had me totally addicted their scenes together had me finishing the novel in record speed. The passion and heart pounding suspense were unparalleled. Touch of Red will definitely be a favorite of fans that like them both.
Laura Griffin has outdone herself with her latest Tracers novel- do not miss it!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Scandal in Battersea by Mercedes Lackey
Fantasy- Oct. 17th, 2017
4 stars
A Scandal in Battersea is part of the author’s Elemental Masters series. It can easily be read as a stand alone. In this book Sherlock and Watson inhabit this semi Victorian England world.
In the streets of London something strange is happening to young women. They appear to be alive but are unresponsive. What has happened to them and is there a greater darkness behind these poor women? Nan Killian and Sarah Lyon-White have special powers. Both have found one of these women. Nan can read minds and finds that in this woman there is nothing there! It seems like she has been stripped of who she is, the woman is literally a shell with nothing inside. Appalled and scared she, her friend Sarah, the Watsons and Sherlock hope to find the evil behind these ‘empty’ women. But can they do so before something more sinister awakens?
This paranormal mystery has a bit of horror and a great mystery. The metamorphosis of the villain is truly fascinating to read. He and his servant are arguable the most compelling characters in the novel. Besides the villain, Nan and then Sarah are really the main characters. While Watson and Sherlock plays roles they are often secondary which may disappoint some Sherlock Holmes fans.
Nan has had a rough young life. Although she had found a new family she is a crusader for those who do not have her advantages. I enjoyed reading her courageous spirit. I also enjoyed reading the Victorian backdrop and the mix of magic that made the story even more exciting. Mercedes Lackey has definitely created a series that readers will continue to enjoy. Especially, as the younger characters grow more mature and realize their own powers. I can’t wait for more.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Pregnant Courtesan for the Rake by Diane Gaston
Historical Romance -Oct. 17th, 2017
4 stars
Cecilia married for loved and against her father's wishes. As a result, they disowned her. Unfortunately, her marriage to her dashing solider has lost its luster. For as soon as her husband realized he would not be receiving her dowry he started to become abusive. Silently suffering, she is relieved to hear of his death. But now penniless in Paris she has no choice but to work for one of their notorious clubs. It is on a chance encounter that she meets Oliver Gregory and they share a magical day (and night!). Both go on their separate ways until Cecilia discovers she is pregnant. With no on else to turn to she shows up at Oliver's doorstep in England. Neither has forgotten the other, but misunderstandings and hidden secrets make their life together difficult. Oliver seems to be everything her husband wasn't, but can she trust her instincts and take another chance?
Cecilia is a smart, independent woman who does not want to surrender her freedom ever again. She has been in a terrible marriage and feels she can't open herself to a man again. Cecilia was an interesting character, she has to delve deep to create a persona that could protect her. She keeps the 'real' her hidden and safe. With Oliver she finds she can be herself but a part of her can't seem to trust him completely and let go of the past. Oliver has everything materialistic that he could want. Except for the inability to find a woman that truly loves him for himself. Because of his mixed blood and the fact that his parents never married. He has been labeled a bastard and not 'good enough' company by mean spirited snobs. Faced with prejudice and the hypocrisy of the ton he prefers his club and the company of his close friends. When Cecilia arrives he it as first dubious of the pregnancy but takes her in. He remembers his magical day with Cecilia but that was before he knew her past. He must also learn to trust and open his heart. The author has created a romantic novel with characters who were truly meant to be. This book will warm the heart of readers as the two wounded main character slowly grow to know each other and heal together.
The complexity of the characters and the sweet development of their love make this romance one to savor!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
One Summer Night by Caridad Pineiro
Contemporary Romance -Oct. 3rd, 2017
4 ½ stars
Sweet, poignant and utterly delicious this book surprised me with how much I fell in love with its characters.
Maggie Sinclair seems to have it all. Beauty, brains and wealth. Well, wealth if she can save her family business from going under. Unfortunately, her father refuses to change business strategies and their company is losing revenues. She has mortgaged their properties in a bid to stay alive and keep their loyal employees from losing their jobs. But now Maggie is desperate and if she doesn’t change things soon and find a monetary backer things may all be gone in smoke before she knows it.
Owen Pierce has always had a crush on his beach side neighbor Maggie Sinclair. But due to an unknown feud between their families has stayed away. But Owen finds he just can’t resist Maggie and when opportunity presents itself to be in her company he grabs it. But his controlling and unhappy father will make his life miserable unless he finds a way to appease him and that may mean betraying Maggie’s new found trust....
Maggie and Owen seem like childhood sweetheart- only they never had a change for a deeper relationship because of the bitter feud between their fathers. Now older, both feel they can make their own decisions but Owen has always been the peace keeper and the responsible person in his family. In a bid to keep everyone happy he make a rash decision that may place him permanently from Maggie’s love. The romance between Owen and Maggie was tender and maybe a little sappy but I loved all of it. I wanted them so much to be together and I liked how they knew each other from childhood and could be real and vulnerable with each other. They were friends that like, respect, and find each other attractive. There were no real games between them and I enjoyed the sincerity of their emotions. I had the feeling that there never was a serious romantic love interest for either of them because both secretly cared for the other so much. Because the author opens the reader to their flaws I felt that I was connected to real people with hopes and dreams not two rich, good-looking urbanities from a prestigious background that I had no relationship with. Also, Maggie’s supportive friends made me feel a part of family and I hope they find their own love interests, too!
This heartfelt romance will put a smile on your face and in your heart.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
September Reviews
Caught by the Scot by Karen Hawkins
Historical Romance - Sept. 26th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
Fun lighthearted and witty this Scottish romp will have you perfectly entertained.
Caught by the Scot appears to the first in a new trilogy concerning three brothers who must marry respectable women or loose their inheritance.
Handsome rogue, Conner Douglas's life is suddenly turned upside down with the death of his beloved sister. Mourning her loss, he is surprised to discover that she changed her will and the terms of his and his brothers inheritance. He is shocked to find that if he does not marry a respectable woman within four months his inheritance will be lost and given to their arch enemy the dreadful Campbells! Motivated to prevent this injustice, Conner already knows the perfect woman. The sister of his best friend. Conner knows that practical Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe will meekly understand his plight and agree to marry him for convenience sake. After all, she is getting older and she certainly doesn't have anything else to look forward to. Then Conner plans to keep his ‘old’ life with long adventurous (and solo) trips and wenching without any interference. Unfortunately, when Conner arrives at Theodora’s residence a month later he discovers that Theo has eloped with a squire! Suddenly driven by an inexplicable need to make her his he rushes to stop the elopement. Only to find Theo and her fiancee stranded due to a carriage accident. When he arrives with his proposal of marriage, Theo is not impressed by Conner. In fact, she still want to marry her country squire! But Conner has several devious tricks up his sleeve and Theo may not be able to keep her heart from falling for him.
This was an extremely enjoyable Regency with lots of confusion and counter plots to keep it lively and amusing. Theo has always loved Conner but she doesn't want a man with a wandering eye or wander lust. She likes the stability her squire represents. When Conner appears she must try to be practical as Conner's proposal is anything but romantic! I liked the fiery and intelligent heroine. She is used to Conner's tricks and reading them try to out maneuver each other in the game of love was deliciously fun. Conner is a rascal and compared to the proper squire- you know what most woman want! He soon is set on seducing Theo and is not above using their past or kisses to try to worm his way into her heart. The banter between them sparkles off the page and will have you laughing in suppressed mirth.
Readers of comedic romances will be charmed by this delightful gem.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
All I Want for Halloween by Marie Harte
Contemporary Romance -Sept 26th, 2017
4 stars
Sadie Liberato is tough, strong and a huge homebody. In an attempt to get her out her fabulously gay brother, Elliot, pesters her to go to a masked Halloween costume party for a popular reality show called Motorcycle Madnezz. There he wants her to help promote their bakery which is catering the event. Although Sadie is anything but thrilled, she decides at the last minute to pull all the stops and wear something completely unexpected. Dressed in a sexy miniskirt and posing as bad a## warrior she dazzles the men of the party. But parties tire her and ultimately she prefers to hide out and eat the delicious food instead. There she discovers another conspirator. A smokin’ hot devil in costume who also wants to get away from the crowds, too. Together they get away from the party and just grab something to eat from the crowds. But it isn’t only the food they enjoy! Both have an instant attraction to each other. Soon they are hot and heavy! However,nan altercation with one of the stars of the event causes Sadie to run and hide from the media. But her masked devil can’t forget Sadie and he is determined to find his mystery woman. Unfortunately, Sadie’s sexy devil comes with some unwanted baggage.
Sadie is a woman that likes her life. Coming up with yummy deserts and staying in the comfort of her home. She isn’t looking for drama or a hot man to make her life better. But she is stuck in a rut. When she meets Gear her life is suddenly in the spotlight. Gear is not someone she feels she would have been attracted to normally and she finds herself challenged by him. Gear for all his tough guy persona is actually pretty sweet and reading Sadie and Gear interact with each other is both steamy and fun. The funniest character is Sadie’s outrageous gay brother Elliot who is not afraid to voice his opinions and push Sadie outside of her box. The rest of Gear’s friends are also intriguing and I would especially like to know more about the strong and silent, Smoke! This series is definitely one to look forward to.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Hunt by Chloe Neill
Urban Fantasy- Sept. 26th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
The Hunt is the third installment on the Devil's Isle Urban Fantasy series by Chloe Neill. This welcome addition is already my favorite in the series. As the passion between bounty hunter Liam Quinn and Sensitive Claire Connolly heats up.
In the last book, Liam (who is a Sensitive) left Claire when his magic manifested beyond his control. Claire is a also a Sensitive and loves Liam. With her powers she can move objects but being a Sensitive is deadly as their magic can overwhelm them and strip their humanity. To complicate matters, their powers are inherited from invading aliens who were intent on taking over their world. As a result, Claire and Liam live in a post-apocalyptic world in New Orleans and their powers make them obvious outcasts. While humans were able to contain most of the aliens on Devil's Isle the threat of invasion from more aliens looms over their minds. Claire is part of the group that wants to equalize relations between humans, aliens and Sensitives. But her heart is sore from the desertion of Liam. When she discovers that he has been accused of a murder she decides to find him and warn him that his life is in peril. But Liam is changed and so it appears has their relationship. Can they over come mistrust and fight a battle to save those they love?
The Hunt explores the general wariness of those with abilities, normal humans and the unknown alien factor further. As Claire become more comfortable in her skin and with controlling her powers she makes lasting friendships with normal humans as well as the mysterious aliens. When a threat against the aliens appears she offers to help them and finds herself making some unwanted discoveries about a mother she thought dead. This book is the most fascinating as Claire learns the most about herself, and her priorities in life. The sparks between her and Liam steams up the book and adds tension as the closed Liam must open up to Claire if he hopes for her to forgive him for deserting her. There are several lovable characters that make the book entertaining such as Liam's brother and the irrepressible Moses. (More please!) Fans of Chloe Neill will find this book a hugely satisfying installment. The story does end a a bit of a cliffhanger -more dangers in store for our beloved heroes but it just made me look forward to the next installment instead of feeling cheated like I usually do when books end this way. I can't wait for more just wish they came out faster.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Brightest Fell by Seanan McGuire
Urban Fantasy - Sept 5th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
This latest installment in the October series just keeps getting better! October (AKA Toby) is trying to get some well deserved rest. She is being thrown a bachelorette party before she marries her fiancee, Tybalt. However, she gets a very unexpected and unwelcome visitor in the form of her deadly and demanding mother, Amandine. Amandine is very powerful and not particularly affectionate First Born Fae. Her mother will not take no and threatens Toby. Amandine steals Tybalt and one of Toby’s friends to be used as hostages as leverage. Forcing Toby to find her half sister Amy, a sister she never knew about! But the problem is no one has been able to find Amy for a hundred years. Yes, Toby is a great detective but even she may have her limitations. And finding a trail that even more powerful Fae could not and under a time constraint are plenty stressful! In addition, Toby must work with a powerful lord that had already hurt her and make terrible bargains to boot. A dangerous adventure indeed.
This is the first hardcover novel in the October series and definitely worth every penny. This story will capture fans of the series as the author delves deeper into Toby’s past with her inscrutable and scary mother. As she is forced to team with her vicious step-father -a Fae who as been anything but nurturing we learn more about her difficult past. This story reveals the motivations of her step-father and also gives glimpses into a kinder and gentler Amandine that Toby never will know. This series has so much depth and complexity that I can’t wait for the author reveal each layer. Toby has really grown comfortable with herself and keeps stretching her powers. Toby is definitely a hero that readers will never become tired of. I can't wait to find out what more the author has in store for her fans.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
On the Chase by Katie Ruggle
Romantic Suspense -Sept 5th, 2017
4 ½ star
Fast paced and sure to tickle your funny bone, Katie Ruggle’s newest Rocky Mountina K9 Units romance will not disappoint.
Kaylee Ramay’s newest boyfriend is rich, sweet and handsome. But his family hides secrets. When she is invited to his Uncle’s mansion she discovered brutally tortured men and helps free them. Unfortunately, she is now a witness and needs to get away and fast. Kaylee is on the run. And now finds herself assuming an alias. She is now called Grace Robinson and is living in the sleepy town of Monroe, Colorado. There she tries to settle in with a family also on the run. But too soon Grace finds herself under the suspicious gaze of officer Hugh Murdoch.
Hugh is bored. His injury prevents him fro getting back to work and until then he must find something to amuse him. Luckily the beautiful and sassy new comer peaks his interest. There is something off about Grace and he is determined to find out what.
This high octane romance at first seemed just like any romantic suspense. But when Kaylee meets Hugh, sparks fly! Kaylee is usually the nice person. Optimistic and kind. However, she is now scared, angry and needs to vent. Hugh finds the mysterious ‘Grace’ very attractive but feels something is off. When he pestered her with his company she retaliates with a sassiness when usually she would usually be ‘nicer.’ It was fun to read Kaylee’s spunky side. Feeling trapped she lets some of her frustration on Hugh -not in a mean way but in a spunky, funny and totally outrageous way she would never do as old Kaylee. After all this new Kaylee has literally nothing left to loose. The rapid and sparkling dialogue between them was one of the most entertaining I’ve read in ages. It doesn’t hurt that the sexy Hugh is tough and protective, if a bit of an annoyance to Kaylee. But over time Kaylee starts to enjoy his company and when danger come close to home she must make a decision.
This romance has made me a fan of Katie Ruggle. I loved the saucy byplay between the two characters and couldn’t stop reading until I was done. Bravo, please keep them coming Katie Ruggle.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club