September Reviews
Seduction on a Snowy Night by Mary Jo Putney, Sabrina Jeffries and Madeline Hunter
Historical Romance Anthology- Sept 24th, 2019
4 1/2 stars
This Christmas themed anthology includes three of my favorite historical romance authors. Each a heart warming treat for the senses.
A Christmas Abduction by Madeline Hunter
A world weary Baron find himself abducted by a beautiful heroine bent on vengeance in a case of mistaken identity.
In this short novel, romance blossoms in an unexpected way as a heroine finds herself falling for the ‘villain.’ This story has an unexpected ending. Plus a strong willed heroine and a very charming hero. 4 stars
A Perfect Match by Sabrina Jeffries
A lovely heiress hides her wealth in hopes that she will be loved for herself. But what happens when she finds herself falling for a fortune hunter?
This lovely romance has a sassy and witty heroine who is trying to protect her cousin and her heart from fortune hunters. But when she finds herself face to face with a handsome and intelligent colonel without funds she must decide if love conquers all. 4 ½ stars
One Wicked Winter Night by Mary Jo Putney
When an independent lady returns to England after fleeing from a romance gone sour she is soon finds herself in the arms of the man who once made her heart race. Will there be a second chance at love?
This is my favorite of novellas. Mary Jo Putney has created an unusual and engaging romantic pair. The heroine is older than the hero. She is not convinced that they can find love again. But the hero has other plans! I loved that both never forget the other. This was a sweet romance with a dash of Romeo and Juliet! I was rooting for the determined and romantic hero to seduce the heroine and change her mind. The hero was swoon worthy. 5 stars
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholic Romance Book Club
Fallen (Alex Verus Novel book 10) by Benedict Jacka
Urban Fantasy- Sept 24th, 2019
5 stars
For fans waiting impatiently for the next Harry Dresden book, this series will definitely keep you occupied. It features a strongly likable main character and adrenaline filled action. It also has spectacular and deadly world building. Alex Versus hits a new high as he is literally transformed in the tenth novel in the series.
Alex Versus is a diviner. A person who can see the possible futures. He has the ability to use his magical skills to protect himself and his friends from danger....but just barely. When he was young he made a near fatal mistake when he fell under the spell of Richard Drakh. A man of such magical power and innate evil that everyone in the magical world fears him. Thankfully, Alex was able to escape Richard's clutches but his past with him haunts Alex. Because he was Richard's student, it never makes him completely acceptable to the, ‘good,’ Light Council. And Alex needs to have friends on the Council so he can protect himself and those he cares for from Richard. When Alex and his girlfriend Anne are suddenly and violently wanted by the White Council Alex finds himself between a rock and very hard place. Fleeing is their only option. But they are soon captured by Richard and things go from bad to extremely bad. Alex is able to escape but Anne does not. Desperate to rescue her, Alex must push his limits. But what happens when Anne is no longer the woman he used to know?
This electrifying new book kept me on the edge of my seat. Alex has always been barely hanging on to respectably and his loved ones. And the stakes are much higher in this novel. He immediately finds himself caught in the crossfire of a deadly mouse and cat game of manipulation. Alex find he must make difficult decisions. Decisions that will change him forever. This explosive book has stunning revelations, unexpected aid and plots twists I never saw coming. A warning -long held characters disappear or die. As a result, Alex will be facing an entirely brave, new world. And trying to find a way to forge different ways of controlling his destiny if he wants to survive and rescue Anne. The book ends at a bit of a cliffhanger and I can’t imagine what the next book in the series will hold for Alex. At every page, I found that I could not tear myself away from this book until I finished. So if you already love this series set up enough time to finish it in one sitting. I can only admire the author for pushing the boundaries of his character at every turn and creating a truly amazing and nail-biting read. I can’t wait to re-read all over again.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Once a Spy by Mary Jo Putney
Historical Romance – Sept. 24th 2019
4 stars
Once a Spy is a part of the author’s exciting Rogues Redeemed series, but it can easily be read as a standalone.
Simon Duval is half British and half French. His skills are greatly needed during the Napoleonic war. His fluency in French has made him the perfect spy for his beloved England.
Now retired and tired of the war, he hopes to settle down when he hears that his cousin by marriage, Suzanne Duval, is living nearby in reduced circumstances. When he visits her, he remembers how smitten he was by her in his youth. But she was already engaged to be married to his older cousin, the Count of Chambron. Simon soon finds peace in her company and impulsively asks the widow to marry him. But Suzanne needs convincing. She has no interest in the intimacies of marriage after being held unwillingly in a harem. After Simon's persuasive attentions they soon decide on a marriage of convenience and friendship. However, Simon discovers he wants much more from Suzanne. Will their marriage be over before it has truly begun? And what happens when his superior asks him to come out of retirement and put his life in danger to spy again for his country?
This original novel brings together a perfectly woven romance concerning two wounded warriors. Simon from the wars and Suzanne from the trauma of being sexually enslaved. The author handles both with a sensitivity and poignancy that make each character easy to relate to as well as care for. Simon is admirable in every way. When he discovers desire for Suzanne, he tries to protect her. He understands that she is already traumatized by intimacy and he is honest how he feels emotionally and physically. He gives power in the right to choose and time to heal. Suzanne learns to trust Simon in a way that allows her view of the opposite sex positively. She becomes more independent, self confidence and assertive in their marriage. Their relationship is one between two compassionate and mature people. I also liked how the author introduces Lucas. A lonely soul who feels he has been dishonorable despite how compassionate and respected he is for his worthy deeds. I hope he finds salvation in a future romance!!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookahoics Romance Book Club
The Merry Viscount by Sally MacKenzie
Historical Romance –Sept. 24th, 2019
4 stars
This warm Regency romance will bring light and laughter to your holidays. As a haunted rake discovers redemption and a women of purpose finds new meaning to her life besides business.
Miss Caroline Anderson's beauty and impoverished state made her easy prey in her youth. Taken advantage of by a man, she found herself abandoned by her family but was thankfully taken in by the ladies of the Benevolent home. There she learned practical skills and independence. Now she is determined to prove herself with her Widow's Brew. Hopeful of selling her beverage in London to help support the home she is severely disappointed when the proposed London buyer is more interested in her looks and getting up her skirts than buying her product. On the way home in a rickety coach she is dismayed when it breaks down in the snow. Things look bleak until she discovers and old childhood friend lives nearby. Although, Nick, the new Viscount of Oakland is now an adult. Caroline does not believe the dastardly tales told of his adult dissipation. She only remembers the young boy she had a secret crush on. Caroline trudges through the snow to the Viscount's manor to seek shelter for her and the rest of the passengers on the coach. But instead of the good hearted boy she knew she finds Nick nearly unrecognizable. And in the middle of an orgy with his London friends!
Nick is dissatisfied with his dissolute life but wants to rebel against his dead and very puritan uncle. An uncle who made his life a living hell. When Caroline makes an unexpected appearance he is upset by the disruption to his party but also oddly pleased. As the group of stranded travelers take refuge at his mansion, so do some surprising reunions and calamities. Nick is stunned by Caroline's strong will and beauty. And attracted to her caring nature. Will this Christmas be something special for the both of them?
This romance was a breath of fresh air. Sally MacKenzie infuses her characters with vibrancy and vulnerability that charms the reader. Caroline has had a tough life in her early adulthood. But she has overcome her circumstances and become a strong woman. However, she realizes despite her drive, this is still a man's world. Still she pursues her dreams and upholds her integrity. Although she is at first appalled by her old friend's behavior she is willing to see the sad and good hearted boy underneath his facade.
Nick is bent on destroying himself to spite his authoritarian uncle but finds his new life cold and lonely. When Caroline and the other travelers come to his manor he finds himself changing and discovering a happiness he thought he would never find in England. This is perfect, heart warming, holiday read to snuggle up with by the fire.
Rescue, redemption and romance. Hurray!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Deception by Kat Martin
Romantic Suspense -Sept. 10th 2019
4 ½ stars
Kat Martin’s latest romantic suspense is an unexpected and sexy mystery that will thrill romance readers.
Kate Gallagher is a young and successful business owner making a name for herself in Dallas, Texas. But tragedy strikes when she is called to the police station to ID her murdered sister’s body. Grief stricken, she looks for a one night stand to take away the pain. At a local bar, she finds a handsome cowboy but at the last the minute decides she can’t follow through with her plans.
Instead Kate vows revenge on the murderer. She looks to hire Maximum Security to help her after futile pleas for help from the Dallas Police are ignored. When she gets to Maximum Security she is dismayed to meet the same hunky stud from the bar! His name is Jason Maddox. He works with Maximum Security as a bounty hunter. Jason can’t forget the sexy woman he met at the bar. When he spies her at work he immediately offers her his services.
But soon their passion for each other complicates matters. Plus solving her sister’s murder is not as simple as it appears. The more they pursue their investigation the more deadly it becomes. Can they stay alive and find love together?
The Deception is another winner! This romance packs action, smoldering passion and heart felt characters. Kate and Jase come from troubled backgrounds but are still able to become successful, strong characters. I enjoyed glimpses of their past and how it affected their relationship. Jase in particular comes from a broken home and although Kate is clearly the woman for him. He struggles to find himself worthy and uncertain of his abilities to nurture a real, adult relationship. Kate finds herself changing from a conservative businesswoman into a fearless and gutsy female who can protect herself. Kate Martin excels at creating engaging characters and an exciting mystery. As Kate and Jase delve into the shady world of prostitution, kidnapping and human trafficking the story gets more complex and dark. However, I loved how the author balanced it with their budding romance.
This spectacular novel is an example of a master storyteller!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
At Death’s Door: A Deadman’s Cross Novel, book 3 by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance – Sept 10th, 2019
4 stars
As the third book in the author’s Deadman’s Cross series, this book can be read as a standalone but there are several characters that intertwine from prior books so it does take a bit of time to understand the premise of the overall storyline.
Valynda Moore thought she had found love with the dashing and mystically powerful Nibo. But when he betrayed her and she was viciously murdered, she never wanted to see him again. However, fate plays her a dirty hand when she is reincarnated as a straw, doll-like woman and she meets Nibo yet again.
When Nibo’s wife tragically died something within him died, too. Now Nibo has powers over the dead and woman mean merely a night’s pleasure. That is until he meets the incorrigible human, Valynda. She sets his blood on fire. But Nibo has enemies and to protect her he stays away only to be the inadvertent instrument of her death.
Now Valynda has a second chance of life. If she can kill enough demons she can become human yet again. But as a woman made of straw, she is woefully lacking in murderous skills. To add to her pain, Nibo seems to taunt her with his nearness. And Valynda finds herself falling underneath his seductive spell yet again. But is she only setting herself up for more heartbreak and death?
This third novel in the Deadman series has plenty of fun loving antics and swashbuckling fights! As the passengers on the Sea Witch pirate ship fight for a chance to become human again. Sherrilyn Kenyon’s imagination yet again pulls readers into a fanciful and engaging new cast. This series reminded me greatly of the Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Where Nibo seems to play a character much like Johnny Depp’s famous on screen persona. I also liked that the author added characters from her Dark Hunter series such as Acheron. However, their addition often made the story line hard to follow and confusing. But the snappy dialogue of the companionable characters made for an entertaining read. Valynda and Nubi are a great couple and I could tell they truly belonged to each other. I only wish the author had spent more time developing their relationship instead of writing snippets of their past. In a short span of time Valynda is already dead and the reader must try to piece together what happened to her and why she is so bitter towards Nubi. Otherwise, this humorous, outrageous and even campy cast made this book a pleasure to read. It only felt like Sherrilyn Kenyon was rushed to finish the novel. If the plot holes had more filler the book would have been even more spectacular.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Unkindest Tide by Seanan McGuire
Urban Fantasy – Sept. 3rd, 2019
4 stars
In Seanan McGuire's latest October Daye novel, Toby finds herself being drafted by the powerful Sea Witch in a dangerous reawaking of a race long thought dead.
Toby is finally trying to relax with her family when she gets an unexpected visited from the Sea Witch named Luidaeg. She is a powerful Fae that Toby owes multiple favors. But now those favors are being called in and Toby has no choice but to pay the price. She will be aiding the Sea Witch to right a long ago wrong.
The Sea Witch is a scary being with incredible powers. Once she had children, but they were massacred by the manipulations of her evil sister. The murderers kept the skins of her dead children and wore them so they could still their magic and become the fabled Selkie. However, now their reckoning is due. The Sea Witch is going to make the Selkie pay for those murders. Toby finds herself caught in the middle. When a sudden murder among the Selkie occurs Toby must discover who did it and try to prevent further killings. This novel gets more personal as Toby and her daughter are caught together in the Sea Witch's plans. Toby finds herself trying to save her ungrateful daughter and meeting more of the powerful First Born. This book also includes a short novella about the future cat King.
This novel concentrates on Toby's rocky relationship with her daughter and a murder mystery. As a Knight, Toby feels bound to try to discover who is behind the vicious death of a Selkie. Her investigation delves into the Selkie community and readers get a broader view of the Selkie. I feel this will be a jumping off point for more relations with the Selkie especially since Toby's daughter is now a Selkie. The story also uncovers some interesting facts about the infamous Luidaeg or Sea Witch and another First Born with tremendous powers. I particularly liked that the author also introduces more of the Merrow and their blood thirsty and dashing charms. While I enjoyed reading the mystery and learning about new characters. (Which hope will be featured more prominently in the future books.) I felt less connected to Toby. And found myself actually skipping the areas that concerned her directly. Even Tybalt who I am a great fan of seemed diminished as a character. It could be that the author is starting to shift her focus in her newer novels but I miss when Toby and Tybalt were more of the main focus of the series.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Lord’s Highland Temptation by Diane Gaston
Historical Romance –Sept. 1st, 2019
4 stars
Mairi Wallace is young, beautiful and intelligent. She is also the daughter of a Baron. As such, her life should be set. But poor decisions by her parents have put the family in deep, debt. Plus a dark secret from her past has made her living the normal life for lady of breeding impossible. When her impetuous younger brother and sister discover a mysterious stranger near death, Mairi soon finds herself trying to nurse him back to life. But she does not trust the stranger, even if he is handsome!
His name is Lucas Johns-Ives. Lucas has demons from his past. Demons he is trying to run from. When he wakes up to find himself with the Wallace family he is charmed by Mairi. And her family takes a liking to him. Soon Lucas finds himself helping the family with their financial woes and even poses as their butler! But a nefarious villain has his eyes on Mairi. Will Lucas finally reveal his identity? And if so, will Mairi forgive him?
This romantic novel tackles deeper issue in a thoughtful and sensitive way. Such that that the characters and their struggles become very personal and meaningful. Mairi and Lucas each have this own personal tragedies but with time, love and patience they have been able to find happiness. I enjoyed their journey of discovery. As a courageous Mairi faces her fears to help a stranger despite her traumatic past. And Lucas must decide if he can forgive himself.
This romance also has a little mischief. While the plot of the butler is a bit outrageous this reader enjoyed the fun twist. Since heroes or heroines in disguise get to see or do things they wouldn’t normally! And Lucas soon find himself in hot water.
Diane Gaston has penned yet another winner!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholic Romance Book Club