Spring Review 2014
May 2014
Banishing the Dark by Jenn Bennett
Paranormal Romance -May 27th, 2014
4 stars
As the forth in the author's Urban Fantasy series. Arcadia Bell is the fabled Moonchild with powers she is yet to understand. She isjust recovering from injuries from her last battle. When she discovers that she is pregnant and that her power hungry mother wants to steal her powers and may use her unborn child. Weak and confused, Arcadia is vulnerable. To protect herself and her child she decides to have her memory erased so they her mother cannot find her. When she wakes up she is confused and disoriented. And she has forgotten her boyfriend, Lon! As they both try to discover secrets behind Arcadia's past and the prophecy behind the Moonchild, Lon's son Jupe is also trying to help and finding himself in mischief. But what happens when Arcadia regains her memories? Will she be able to keep one step ahead of her vicious mother and more importantly, will she forgive Lon?
I would highly recommend reading these books in order. This book felt like a transition book. A lot is going on and seems to continue seamlessly from the prior book. Since I missed the prior book, Binding in the Shadows, I felt lost and it took me a while to reorient myself to the storyline. Arcadia has a lot to deal with, not only is she fumbling with her powers but she has memory loss, too! This story is tense and unpredictable so readers will not be bored. Arcadia's mother depth of evil reaches new lows. On the lighter side, Jupe, the son of Arcadia's lover, Lon. Is also growing into his powers. He is a fun read, precocious and always caught up in trouble. I think the best part is that Arcadia gets to know Lon again. So if you like their romance, you will get more! And it only proves they are meant to be together. I am just not sure how I feel about her becoming a mother. Which should make any future books (?) very interesting. However, this book was a bit darker and harder for me to get into. I enjoyed it, but I know I would have liked it more if I had read the prior book before reading this one.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Wild to the Bone by Peter Brandvold
Erotic Western -May 26th, 2014
3 1/2 stars
Wild to the Bone is the second in the author erotic western series about the tough, ladies man and Pinkerton agent, Bear Haskell.
In the first book Bear was introduced to a new partner. A prickly, uptight but gorgeous lady named Raven York. Although doubtful of her abilities he soon found her saving him on their last mission. Now the dynamic duo are being paired up again, to rescue the niece of President Johnson. As they follow clues they find themselves in danger. Can they rescue the niece and save their own hides?
This light, western romp will keep readers entertained. Bear is a hero that is bigger than life. Bold, cocky and in your face. Readers will be charmed by his swagger and the mischief he continuously finds himself in. Raven is his opposite, supposedly careful, measured and works behind the scenes to get her answers. Both bring out the best and worst in each other which is a lot of fun to read. However, as mentioned in a previous review, this book is marketed as being an erotic western for women and men. In these terms, I believe that men will find the numerous sexual scenes more gratifying than women. This is because the sex is just sex. There is no romance or sexual tension before (There is no meaning attached to the sex.) the act that most woman prefer reading before Bear jumps into bed with someone. Also, there is a double standard, Bear can sleep with any woman he chooses but for some reason the author only allows Raven to have sex with Bear or masturbate. Why can't Raven have someone on the side, too?
Those looking for a fast, beach read filled with adventure will find this saucy western satisfying. But the multitude of sex may turn some off.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Pure Heat by M.L. Buchman
Romantic Suspense -May 6th, 2014
4 stars
In Pure Heat, the M.L. Buchman begins his newest series, the Firehawks. About brave women and men who fight fires and risk their lives. But readers who loved his Night Stalkers series will be thrilled to know that his beloved characters Emily and Mark return to play key roles and have a little girl in tow, too!
Steve Mercer's last injury put him out for good. As a thrill seeking, life-saving fire jumper he had the live he dreamed about. Now he needs to walk with a cane and he is lucky that his leg was saved. He misses the adrenaline of his old job, but his new one brings him into contact with a fiery woman that pumps it back up! Carly Thomas has grown up around fires all her life. She lives and breathes taking them out. But when a new and sexy ex-smoke jumper is assigned to help she is at first irritated, then skeptical and finally super attracted. Soon Steve shows that he isn't just any man but one with skills and knowledge that she can admire. They both have a past that draws them together and soon they find the flames between them are harder to put out than the fires they work with! But when a huge fire threatens them they must strain their resources and knowledge to battle it successfully.
The author includes rich details that make fighting the wildfires very real and tense. I liked how the background information(which was never too much) balanced seamlessly with the characters relationship development. This was a solid, entertaining read. While I didn't like it as much as his Night Stalkers series, the Firehawks series is definitely off to a roaring start. Carly is a bombshell and she is used to men taking her as a airhead. She has always felt she had to fight to be taken seriously. When Steve comes along she doesn't want him to underestimate her and they start off a bit rocky. But soon they come to admire each others skills and the sexual tension between them rockets out of control. Their romance was hot. But because I liked the Night Stalkers series so much I confess I did skip a bit to read about Emily and Mark. Their relationship still fascinates me. The author does spent considerable time with them so other fans on the series will be delighted to read how happy they are!
A fantastic read that Night Stalker fans won't want to miss. I can't wait to read more.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Blue Notes by Carrie Lofty
Contemporary Romance -May 6th, 2014
4 stars
Keeley Chambers has had a tumultuous young life. Her parents were on the wrong side of law. Stealing and doing drugs -which ended when her father murdered her mother and Keely put him in jail. But now she has a new life. With foster parents that love her. As a talented pianist, she is enrolled as a junior at the Tulane University in New Orleans. Where she feels socially inept. Her only real friend is her nerdy roommate. But things are changing since she has been assigned to mentor a talented prodigy named, Adelaide Deschamps. And Adelaide happens to be the sister to the young and handsome billionaire named Jude Deschamps. When Keeley meets Jude sparks fly and Keeley isn't exactly nice. Intrigued, Jude eggs her to play piano and fascinates her in turn. Soon they are getting hot and heavy but Jude is Keeley's first boyfriend and it seem Jude is stringing her along. She wonders what a naive college student can give such a worldly man. But things turn for the worse when it looks life Keeley's father might be released from prison and he wants revenge on the person who put him there....
I was surprised at how quickly I read this book. Keeley has insecurities that anyone can relate to. I also liked how Keeley struggles to have a 'normal' life and loved her resilience. She steals the story, as the reader will quickly root for her. When she performed I wanted the audience to go nuts! As for the hero. I found Jude as fascinating as Keeley! I wanted her to have love although I wasn't sure of Jude's agenda. Did he want Keeley as a way to keep tabs on his wayward sister or did he like her for herself? Jude is a bit mysterious, sometimes I find this to be annoying but in this book it made him more intriguing, especially as he opens up to Keeley. But I always felt Keeley was a bit out of her depth with Jude. His experience made him seem too different for me to quite believe they could actually have real, balanced relationship. Overall, this read was one I enjoyed and would recommend. Keeley is a memorable and very likeable heroine that will keep readers entertained.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
To Charm a Naughty Countess by Theresa Romain
Historical Romance -May 6th, 2014
4 stars
A hapless, atypical hero and a wealthy widow soured on love find themselves attracted to each despite themselves!
Caroline Graves was disappointed in love when the young Michael Layward, the heir to the Wyverne Dukedom rejected her. Luckily she found a wealthy old Count to marry her instead. The Count doted on her and left her a fortune when he died. Now a notorious and beautiful widow, the beautiful Caroline is able to pick her own pleasures. But Michael returns into her life. As the new Duke of Wyverne, Michael must find a rich wife to solve his money woes. He immediately and clumsily asks Caroline to marry him. And at first, poor Caroline’s heart is aflutter but then she remembers how he rejected her. Now she is the one in power and she has decided to show him her connections by finding him an appropriate wife. But while Caroline creates circumstances for Michael to meet eligible young heiresses. Each time he seems to bumble her attempts to match him! Caroline is frustrated. But with each attempt, she finds herself growing more fond of Michael. Soon they find their initial attraction sizzling but can an awkward Michael prove that he loves Caroline and not her money? Especially when he already broke her young heart?
This romance was often sweet. And Caroline is a wonderful heroine readers will want to find happiness. The question is this. Is the inept Michael worthy of her? He can’t seem to express himself or show that he cares for the kind and engaging Caroline. In fact, he treats her quite badly without meaning to several times. So much, that I hoped the author would write a better candidate. One more worthy of Caroline. Some readers will find Michael endearing, but his clueless and fumbling treatment of Caroline often made me cringe. However, Caroline has always loved Michael, even if she won’t admit it. She can’t seem to keep herself away from him even when she tries. As these two fumble on the road to love it is amusing to read. And I did enjoy reading Michael finally realize what a prize Caroline is -and what he does to show her how much he cares!
This Regency is an outrageous romp. As a clueless hero and a beauty determined to protect her heart finally find happiness in this second chance at love.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Meet the Earl at Midnight by Gina Conkle
Historical Romance -May 6th, 2014
4 stars
In Meet the Earl at Midnight, the author has written a light, frolicking fairy-like tale based on the Beauty on the Beast theme. However, the heroine, Miss Lydia Montgomery, isn't just a pretty face!
Lydia doesn't care for her wastrel step-father but she does care for her family. When her step-brother Tristan, finds himself in trouble, her step-father wakens her in the middle of the night to help him get Tristan out of it! Only she realizes too late that she has been manipulated. For she has been actually brought to the dastardly and mysterious Earl of of Sanford as a bride, not plan an escape! She is to be given to the Earl in exchange for the Earl forgiving her step-father's and step-brother's stealing from him! To avoid her dear mother being thrown into debtor prison she reluctantly agrees but immediately demands certain concessions. Soon she finds herself whisked away into the 'dark' world of the Earl. But Edward is not what he seems. He is actually a scholar with a haunted past. As Lydia grows to know him also begins to fall in love but can she keep him by her side?
This is a quick, easy read. Lydia is daring, smart and plucky. I liked that she wanted to pursue a career as an artist and was independent. Edward needed Lydia's energy and curious nature to pull him out of his 'old' life. Poor Edward has had his series of torments since his scarring and the death of his brother and father. Now he wants to leave his duties behind and live the life he always wanted. Seeing and exploring his plants. I enjoyed reading the contrast between Edward's supposed tarnished reputation versus the actual gentle and caring person he really is inside. Edward and his lovely housekeeper are my two favorite characters in the story. As the story wore on I found myself increasingly invested in both. But grew more disenchanted with Lydia. Lydia sometimes seemed a little spoiled and I did not like how she tried to manipulate Edward no matter how much she loved him. If she could have freedom and independence why couldn't Edward have the same thing? While everything sorts itself out in the end I was a bit disappointed in Lydia's character.
Fast and entertaining this historical retake on Beauty and the Beast theme will have many thoroughly satisfied!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
April 2014
Once Bitten, Twice Burned by Cynthia Eden
Paranormal Romance -April 29th, 2014
4 1/2 stars
Once Bitten, Twice Burned is the second in the author new Phoenix series. But it can be easily read by itself.
In this book, the ultimate vampire, Ryder has been captured by a evil genius. A human scientist named Wyatt. Wyatt wants to use Ryder’s genetics to create indestructible super soldiers. To get Ryder to compel to his demands after nearly starving him, Wyatt lures him with the fresh blood of an innocent young woman. A woman named Sabine, one that has secrets even she do not know. But what Wyatt doesn’t realize is that Ryder become addicted to Sabine’s blood and he will do anything to keep her for himself. When there is a breach in the high security facility holding them Ryder immediately looks for Sabine and makes his escape with her. But Sabine is a Phoenix and when Ryder blooded her he took too much and killed her by mistake. This death brought her ashes back to life. And when Sabine return she is hungry for violence and does not remember who she is or who Ryder is either. This complicate matters. Ryder doesn’t enjoy seeing the pain Sainbe must endure when she dies and is reborn. But what can he doe especially since Wyatt wants them both back and has send deadly mutant after them. Plus Sabine is insistent upon finding her family. A family that carries many surprises. Can Sabine and Ryder find peace and love when Sabine can’t even remember him?
This is book has many subplots that will keep the reader on their toes. Ryder is a dark character who has one drive -to save Sabine for himself. He can be a bit scary at times and I often wondered how the naive and very young Sabine could handle him. Although he is obsessed with her blood, I was at first doubtful her youthful character could match his hardened one. But Sabine has a lot of surprises in store for her and with each one she becomes stronger. I liked how she puts Ryder in his place. Their passion for each other really heats up the pages. But Sabine’s love for her brother was one of the best parts of the book. I also enjoyed reading how her brother actually matches her expectations of him. I hope the author will write more about him! The author includes an interesting storyline that involves the mythology of why there are so few Phoenixes. It is because they hunt down and kill each other. And one is hunting Sabine! To complicate matter a history that Ryder thought was firmly in his past, returns. With so much going on plus this book will keep the pages turning.
Mythical creatures, fiery death and a love for eternity. This book has it all!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Searching for Perfect by Jennifer Probst
Contemporary Romance -April 29th, 2014
4 1/2 stars
Searching for Perfect is the second in Jennifer Probst’s romantic series about a matchmaking agency that has a little bit of magical help. Characters from the author’s Marriage to a Billionaire series return and round out a thoroughly satisfying read.
The Kinnections Match Making agency’s social director is the ultra sexy Kennedy Ashe. At one of their dating functions she spies a hopelessly nerdy man named Nate Dunkle. He is a rocket scientist that lacks tack as well as any fashion sense. Unfortunately, he is mucking up her speed dating event. But something about the hapless scientist calls to Kennedy. Soon she finds herself offering to give him a make-over and help him find the woman of his dreams. Nate is far from stupid and while he isn’t sure if Kennedy will be able to deliver on her promise he doesn’t mind having the sexy Kennedy’s undivided attention at all! For Nate has an enormous crush on Kennedy. Soon they are finding they have more in common then they thought and having lots of fun in the process. But when it leads to getting hot and heavy in bed everything changes. Kennedy is used to one-night stands and Nate wants forever. Kennedy doesn’t do commitment and although she believes in matchmaking true lovers, she just doesn’t think it is possible for her. Can Nate convince her she’s wrong or will she push him into the another woman’s arms before it is too late?
Funny, engaging and totally unexpected, Jennifer Probst is the master of contemporary romance. Readers will love the latest in her new series. Kennedy is the sexy, love ‘em and leave ‘em siren. Confident and smoldering. But it is all on the outside. Inside she still feels like the overweight child criticized by her mother. She doesn’t believe she is loveable for herself and is scared to open her heart to love. Nate wants a partner he can love and he knows that it is Kennedy, if only she would listen! I felt Nate was the type of guy any woman could love. He is earnest, smart and very good in the sack! His dogged pursuit of Kennedy had my heart very sympathetic to him. Sometimes I wanted to shake Kennedy and tell her to wake up and see Nate.
Easy to read but with a depth of character, this book combines the perfect blend of magic, love and steamy sex.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
High and Wild by Peter Brandvold
Erotic Western -April 21st, 2014
3 1/2 stars
In High and Wild, the author introduces his brash, Texas Lothario, Bear Haskell. A real man that can take care of the bad guys as easily as he can satisfy the ladies.
As a leading Pinkerton agent, Bear Haskell has found the life he loves. He gets paid to risk his life and root out the villains. In his latest assignment, he finds himself tied to an uptight, female agent named Raven York. A she-devil that stirs his libido and frustrates him to no end. And the fact that she saves him only makes him more irritated! On their first mission together they are hired to find a missing man by his family. As each search for clues using different angles it is clear there is foul play. And someone doesn't like their questions. Can they find their man or will they be looking at death themselves?
While this book is supposed to be meant for both men and woman who enjoy adventure, the west, and steamy sex. It seems clear it was written by a man. I really enjoyed the author's descriptions of the old west and the multitude of trouble that Bear and Raven get themselves in and out of. But this erotic sections of the book had me feeling a little flat. The sex scenes were just sex. There wasn't any foreplay or real tension leading up the why the women would want to be with Bear except that he is a hunky guy that any woman would just naturally want to bed. So women might not find those sections of the book as interesting as men may. Also, there is the double standard in which the man can sleep around as much as he likes but Raven can only sleep with him! It seemed that in this sense, the book is more a man's fantasy/erotic romance than a woman's. That being said, I did enjoy this book. But I would have just liked to read Bear's Pinkerton adventures and him fooling and busting his way out of trouble and saving the day. The interplay between the two competitive agents (who don't like each other but secretly admired each other) was extremely enjoyable to read. However, his sexual interludes were too much or could have been excluded entirely from the storyline.
A fun, sexual escapade in the Wild West.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Far Gone by Laura Griffin
Romantic Suspense April 15th, 2014
4 1/2 stars
Gripping suspense and hot romance make Laura Griffin's books consistently deliver. In Far Gone, a traumatized cop is trapped between the loyalties of a no good brother and the FBI man that stirs her passion! It is the latest in the author’s Tracers series but can easily be read by itself.
Detective Andrea Finch is on forced leave after killing a young man. As her department evaluates her to reinstatement she is restless and on probation. A perfect time for her troublesome, if brilliant brother to get into deep danger. When he asks her for money and then mysteriously quits college she is suspicious and tracks him down to Texas where it look likes he has involved himself with an extremist group. A group that hot shot and super sexy FBI man, Jon North is investigating. And Jon isn't happy to have Andrea coming in and messing up his project. But when Jon discovers that Andrea's brother is on the 'inside' he tries to convince her to persuade her brother to aid them. But danger lurks as the extremists won't hesitate to kill one of their own. Can Andrea and Jon stop their devious plot before it has gone too far?
This book hits home. I felt that the characters and the storyline were very realistic. The radicals in the plot seemed unnervingly plausible and I wondered how Jon and Andrea would be able to stop them. I could feel the tension and frustration as the stakes grew higher and they kept getting stonewalled. When they finally got lead I cheered. I liked Andrea. Andrea is a strong heroine. Smart, decisive and practical. But in relationships she is a total disaster. Jon is not much better. As they struggle to solve the mystery and find time to figure out if they even have a relationship tempers and passion flare. I liked how Jon is a confident man and not used to having someone question him. They both keep each on their toes, which also keep the sparks flying. If you enjoy detective novels and strong characterization you will enjoy this book. Laura Griffin writes a book that will pull you in and keep you there until you discover the thrilling end.
Another spectacular suspense, as a plucky detective and a sexy government man race against the clock and find romance along the way.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Confessions of a Royla Bridegroom by Vanessa Kelly
Historical Romance -April 1st, 2014
4 stars
Exciting and brimming with mystery this historical romance is part of a series but can be easily read as a standalone.
Justine Brightmore is a gentlewoman that has lived an unusual life. With a deceased father as a spy and her adopted uncle a spymaster she has skills and intelligence that are rare for a woman of her time. When she is asked by her uncle to help the notorious Griffin Steele. She doesn't blink an eye.
For Griffin is mad, bad and dangerous to know. But even he is shocked by an unexpected and lively delivery at the doorstep of his brothel. He has been anonymously asked to care for a young infant by a mysterious woman. It turns out that the infant carries a signet ring that may tie the child to a treacherous family that wants the baby dead. As Justine is placed in charge of the baby, trouble lurks. Complications arise when customers of the brothel threaten the women who work there. Justine must defend them but her identity is discovered. The only way to repair her reputation is for Griffin to marry her. Which means that the attraction that has simmered between them flares out of control. As they learn about each other, Justine discovers Griffin's illegitimate state and how he uses his reputation to hide a kind heart. But can Justine battle through his barriers and find a lasting love or will the villains searching for the child tear them apart?
Justine is a mix of innocence and mature wisdom. She has had a unique life that makes her interesting to read. I liked that she does not judge Griffin by his reputation or his upbringing. Griffin is a very kind person who has led a hard life. He is a bit of a romantic and strives to hide his softer side. I enjoyed reading Justine uncover his 'real' identity and see Griffin be able to be vulnerable. He has always tried to prove himself and with Justine he can finally be himself. He needs Justine's caring practicality especially when he is surprised by the real reason he was chosen by the mysterious woman to care for a defenseless baby boy. This story also has a couple of plots twists that readers will enjoy.
A dashing, reformed rake and an enterprising young woman foil a plot, save an innocent baby and find true love. A book well worth reading!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Silence of the Dead by Simone St. James
Historical Romance –April 1st, 2014
4 stars
Great Britain is trying to recover from World War I and Kitty Weekes is on the run. Desperate and with nowhere else to go, the determined and resourceful girl poses as a nurse. She soon finds herself on a desolate and isolated location at Portis House. There her mettle is tested as abandoned war heroes recovering from terrible physical and mental damage are put away from society’s gentle eyes. These men seem crazy and sad. Underfunded and without resources she and the other nurses have a difficult time. But plucky Kitty knows life at home would be far worse. And her father shouldn’t be able to find her in such a remote area. But the eerie Portis House seems to be haunted. Plus the mystery of a missing nurse and a patient only known as number sixteen spike her curiosity and land her in trouble.
Romance, mystery and a paranormal house filled with frights make for a page turning read. This book has many twists and turns. The poor, courageous men remind me of the soldiers that come back home now with PTSD. The men and even the nurses are trying to cope the best they can. But in those times PTSD was unknown. The returning soldiers were quickly hushed up and considered utterly shameful. As a battered Kitty finds solace in helping the soldiers she also finds compassion for herself and her own sense of worth. The heroine is out of her mind courageous and the love she finds is worth it all. The plot has many back stories as Kitty explores the house and the secrets behind the men that stay in such a terrible place. When a medical emergency hits the book comes to a climax and not how the reader expects. If you love surprises, World War I and moving characters this book is for you.
Lovers of haunted houses and gothic romances with tragedy will love this book.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Island of Doves by Kelly O’Connor McNees
Historical Romance –April 1st, 2014
4 stars
The Island of Doves is the moving journey of a woman who finds a new identity and hope.
Susannah Fraser had an idyllic childhood. But when her parents suddenly died and her new husband discovers that she has no inheritance. Her life becomes a nightmare. For her husband has a dark, angry side. He likes control and Susannah is his favorite target. Everything she does isn’t good enough and she has to be punished for her own good. Poor Susannah struggles to survive until her worried maid contact a local church. A sister visits Susannah and lets her know they can help her disappear. But will Susannah have the courage to leave all she knows? And if she does, what will happen if her husband discovers that she didn’t die and tries to hunt her down?
This rare book tells of how a seemingly weak and timid woman can change and learn to grow into a woman of rare confidence. There is also an intriguing back-story that unites long lost relatives. One that has been burned them by tragedy and sets them on a path to redemption and hope for others.
This is quick, easy read. Although Susannah’s abuse is painful to read. I liked how she finally can’t stand it anymore and take the tiny steps to her own freedom. I think even Susannah is surprised at how much she has changed. This book also explores the mind of an abuser and his justification for his actions not only to his wife but his employees. This power hungry and scared man is one readers won’t soon forget.
Realistic and hopeful this book of empowerment will inspire.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
March 2014
Night Broken by Patricia Briggs
Urban Fantasy, March 11th, 2014
5 stars
Fans will not be disappointed with Mercy Thompson's latest adventures. In this books he gets caught up with a conniving ex-wife, the devious prankster Coyote, and a magical stick that mysteriously keeps returning to her.
Mercy is finally recovering from her latest battle and enjoying life with Adam when her mate's ex-wife calls. She is another crisis and only Adam can help. It appears that Christy's latest boyfriend is a dangerous stalker and she wants to stay with them for protection. However, when Christy arrives she disrupts their lives making demands and playing the perfect homemaker. Trying to put wedge herself between Mercy and Adam. She want Adam back. This is a problem because Mercy's has not been fully accepted by Adam's pack. Mercy if not a wolf shifter and many of the pack do not think she is a strong enough mate for Adam. Plus Christy's 'dumb blonde' routine is driving Mercy crazy. But things go from bad to worse when they discover that Christy's stalker is not human. And he has a taste for blood. But finding out what he exactly is and how to stop him is proving difficult and extremely dangerous. To add to Mercy's problems she discovers that a powerful Fae wants her magical stick returned to him or else. Unfortunately, she gave it to the mischievous trickster Coyote. Finding him will be frustrating, unless he wants to be discovered. And he always crops up to stir up trouble. With so much going on how can Mercy keep her cool, keep her mate and save the pack?
Mercy is smart woman with a heart of gold. Even when Christy was driving me crazy Mercy was still sympathetic towards her. This book has a lot of inner dynamics as Mercy struggles with pack prejudices and finding Coyote. Through all the mayhem, she is relatively calm and resolute. Her compassionate nature makes you fall in love with her all over again. What makes her such a resilient and likeable character is her integrity and loyalty to those she loves. She is willing to sacrifice herself so that they will be safe. Adam and Mercy seem like a loving couple who have settled into each other. I enjoyed reading their interplay. It was fun to return to old character and feel like I was coming home to a family that cares for each other -even if hey have their outrageous differences. The pacing of the book will also keep you on your toes. Coyote likes to play with his protégées and Christy's dangerous ex becomes something out of a nightmare. Plus the mysterious stick and why it keeps returning to Mercy is fun to read! Patricia Briggs brings, action, suspense and a wonderful cast that readers will savor until the last word.
Excitement, mystery, intriguing characters and a stellar heroine make this a book to read!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Hearts of Chaos by Kira Brady
Paranormal Romance -March 4th, 2014
4 stars
Hearts of Chaos is the third in the Deadglass trilogy. This complex, lush fantasy world is filled with romance It will enthrall the readers but because of its world building should definitely be read in order.
Lady Lucia is the prophesied Crane shifter. The one who will help lead their powerful but dying race to freedom and peace. As such, she has been betrothal to the most powerful of their kind, Emory Corbette. But he only sees Lucia as a pawn. He has bigger things he needs to deal with -mainly trying to keep his race from becoming extinct. But the ‘fragile’ Lucia surprises him and amasses a large army to save their race. Still Emory decides he does not want her distracting him from his duties. However, when Emory is faced with traveling in Land of the Dead to find a weapon to kill their enemy it is Lucia who risks her life to save him. Emory is used to being alone and having the burden of his heritage weigh him. Can Emory admit his hidden passion for Lucia and let her help him?
This series is magical, mythical and absorbing. Lucia is a heroine that readers will care for. Emory is not so easy to love because he won't let himself care for anything except duty. He disregards Lucia and many others in his goal to save their race. I felt bad for Emory because he doesn’t give himself time for the little pleasures in life. I liked that Lucia forced him see her as a real woman. One who is desirable and has a mind of her own. I think without her his life would be very bleak. The backdrop for this story and the lush fantasy world made this book worthwhile. I only wish the hero had been able to unbend and let himself be human sooner.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club