August Reviews
Once a Rebel by Mary Jo Putney
Historical Romance - Aug 29th, 2017
4 stars
Once a Rebel is part of the author's Rogues Redeemed series. Set during the America's fight for independence it has plenty of action and romance! It is also can be read as a stand alone.
Callista Brooke is used to taking care of herself. Abandoned by her family, she was sent away to live with a much older man. Now a grown and independent woman she has a new family. A family that is comprised of her step-daughter, step-son and their family. But American is a dangerous place as it fights for an independence that England doesn't want it to have. When she is caught and British soldiers attack her she is unable to defend herself. But then an old friend from the past comes to her aid.
Richard is the third son to the Marquess of Kingston and a bit of a rebel. When circumstances place him in scandal his heartless father decides to pack him away and out of sight. Happy to be away from his unloving family he finds an unusual career helping others. This time he is hired to find and bring back a mysterious young Englishwoman living in America. The timing is perfect as he has become quite bored and restless. But when he finally arrives he finds his target being attacked by British troops and is shocked to discover she is an old and dear friend. In fact, Richard has thought of his old friend often and Callista has grown quite beautiful. But Callista doesn't want to leave the family she has in America. Unfortunately, the danger for her is very real.... Can Richard protect her or will a darker more nefarious man take care of her instead?
This book is a bit of a departure from the author's previous books in that most of the story is set in America. It was fascinating to read about the American history and the upheaval of our young country. But that also means this story is not the light stuff of evening balls and fitting dresses. In fast, the author brings up the subject of slavery. Several of the secondary characters were slaves and the author delves into some of their hardships. I did enjoy these character and sometimes felt they were more interesting than Callista! This book has many sub sections. The past, time in America and the time in England. Each reads like separate mini novels. The times in England which feature Richard and Callista together are my hands down favorite. The sections spent in America for Callista felt like a holding phase. Either way Richard and Callista are a charming and mature couple that readers will love and admire. The author does a fabulous job of creating a hero and heroine that seem meant for each other. Both are rebels and have created their own destiny. But since no one really understands them they are individually a bit lonely. When Richard and Callista are together they fit seamlessly. I only wish Callista had been more open to a relationship with Richard a lot sooner in the story so I could enjoy them together more!
This epic romance sweeps across time and nations. Filled with romance and adventure it is sure to please.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Chesapeake Bride by Mariah Stewart
Contemporary Romance -Aug. 29th, 2017
4 stars
Cassidy Logan has come to Chesapeake Bay to build small units that honor the area’s heritage. As an architect, she loves the history and tries to integrate her designs and social responsibility to the local residents. While in Chesapeake Bay she and her boss/father know the irrepressible Ruby. And elderly spitfire that embodies the area and its people. But Ruby has one handsome grandson named Owen Parker. Cassidy is attracted to Owen but his drifter ways remind her of her ex-husband. And once burned twice shy. She is determined not to become involved with him However, despite her good intentions they seem to be thrown together more often than not and soon feelings develop between them. But will Owen ever change?
This contemporary romance builds slowly and has plenty of character. The star of this show is Ruby. A crusty and wise lady who knows what she wants. And that is her grandson settled and happy. Ruby carries a bit of magic and seems to know that Owen and Cass would be perfect together! While Cass and Owen are attracted to each other, they take a bit longer to realize how good they are for each other. Owen likes Cass but only when he is confronted by his past does he understand that he must take responsibilities for his actions. Cass comes to care for Owen but she is done with men that cannot commit. She is not willing to be with someone who does not put her first. Their interplay and growing affection make for an affecting and heartwarming romance. Especially as Owen grows and become the man Cass deserves.
Fresh, funny and sweet this romance brings home to homecoming.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Irresistible You by Kate Meader
Contemporary Romance August 14th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
As the first in the Chicago Rebels hockey series, Irresistible You was irresistible to read!
The Rebels team used to be great but an old management style and and overbearing boss run it to ground. However, when Harper Chase's father dies, she expects to inherit the team and take over. Harper love hockey and it was the only way to connect with a father that was a competitive athlete. Since Harper was never physically strong she could show her love and determination by helping the team. But her father never let her do much. But a huge surprise awaits Harper when she discovers that she does not inherit the team but rather must share it with her two other half sister. One she was jealous of and one she never knew. Now the three sister must band together if they want to inherit. To make things worse Harper made a savvy deal and added a talented veteran to her team. The sexy, Remy DuPre. A man that does not want to be on a loosing team.
Remy is close to retirement and his old team is so close to winning being traded at the last minute to the worst team in the league shatters his dreams of going out in glory. He doesn't want to be a part of the Rebels let alone a team player. But the distracting owner Harper keeps getting on his nerves and his libido.
Fans of Jaci Burton's Play-by-Play books will love this new series. Harper is a strong willed woman who wants to win. But the problem with being a young and attractive woman is that is isn't taken seriously by the management. She has had to fight her way to earn the respect of many of the players. And she isn't going to let her newest acquisition give her flack. Especially since she needs his experience and leadership to pull the Rebels out of their slump. If on the infuriating man would work with her. Remy resents being moved to Chicago. And definitely gives Harper a difficult time. But when he discovers how much he likes his sassy new boss sparks begin to fly. The problem is he still doesn't want to be on a loosing team. Remy knows he only has one to two years left before his body will have to retire and he wants a championship. But as he gets to know and care for the team and one of its owners he will have to decide what is important to him. Kate Meader gives us steamy romance that elevates hockey to stud category. I felt myself immersed in the trials of Harper and her sisters. Also the troubles of the other hockey players. It was enjoyable to read the team come together and I sort of felt like part of the Rebels team. I know the next book features Harper's athletic sister. But I hope the author doesn't stop this series with the sister. There are so many sexy hockey players I want to read their stories, too!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Urban Enemies Anthology- Jim Butcher Kevin Hearne, Kelley Armstrong and Seanan McGuire etc.
Urban Fantasy -Aug. 1st, 2017
4 ½ stars
This anthology is a twist on our regular anthologies because it is comprised exclusively of the villains in our favorite authors stories. Let me be the first to say it. It takes a great author to make the enemy a sympathetic character and for the most part I found the authors succeeded better than I expected. Below I have given a brief synopsis of some of the highlights.
The first story (and my favorite in the anthology) is the story of the hardened criminal Gentleman John Marcone from the Dresden series in Even Hand. I admit to having a fascination with Marcone and Jim Butcher manages to make him even more mysterious and fascinating. To the extent that I would buy a series of his books if they were written. In this story, a young woman and a child ask for sanctuary with Marcone. Will the hardened businessman give in and if so what will the consequences be for him? 5 stars
In Kelley Armstrong's short Hounded, the story takes place in her Cainsville series where a rogue Huntsman is on the hunt for a new hound and the terrifying way he goes about it. Scary good, wouldn’t want to meet this Huntsman in a dark alley. 4 stars
Jeff Somers's, Nigsu Ga Tesgu, is a note worthy short from the Ustari Cycle. It tells the origins of a truly evil magician named Mika Renar. The main character is completely self absorbed and power driven. A fascinating, horror-fantasy gem. 4/12 stars
In Seanan MCGuire’s Balance, we are taken on a short trip into the InCrytid series. The protagonist is an infamous cuckoo. A cuckoo can read and manipulate minds. There a few of them (thank goodness), as this is a cautionary tale of the damage they can do. Diabolical and eerily absorbing 4 ½ stars
Kevin Hearne’s novella, The Naughtiest Cherub, takes place in his Iron Druid series. Loki is bent on causing trouble and here he finds someone even more powerful and evil than himself. And eye opening novella that doesn't make you like Loki but shows his interesting personality. 4 stars
Most of these stories will quickly keep the readers attention. Fans of any of these series are bound to find something to like. Because this book features the bad guys it is a lot darker and scary. The novellas are all well written but there are some which actually make you like the villain and may turn you to the 'dark side.' A couple of the authors intrigues me with their villains so much that it interested me in reading their series - such as Jeff Somers's Ustari Cycle. Overall, this anthology is one that fans of urban fantasy will find gripping and a great introduction to other authors they aren't familiar with. Well worth reading.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Saving Mr. Perfect by Tamara Morgan
Contemporary Romance -August 1st, 2017
4 1/2 stars
As the second in the author's Penelope Blue series the hilarious characters are back and up to their old tricks. This fast, fun caper can be read by itself but once you start you want to read the first book right after!
Poor Pen is bored, bored, Bored! Pen used to be an infamous thief. But no more breaking the law or planning jewel heists to keep her agile body and mind nimble. It was the end of the beginning when she married her sexy FBI husband and promised to be on the straight and narrow. It wasn't enough that she is out of a job but now her loving husband seems distracted and upset. And Pen thinks she knows why There are mysterious robberies by someone only known as the Peep-Toe Prowler. The problem? Those robberies are very similar to her style. Is Grant trying to protect her or does he think she is back to her old tricks? Pen is determined to find out and remove all those worried frowns from his darling face. But that means bending the law just a little and maybe breaking into the FBI, too.
Pen is fun and feisty. Being in retirement doesn't suit her at all. Although she loves her husband Grant she is getting a little restless and helping him is her top priority. She misses her old gang and I loved reading her get back together with them and their old camaraderie. In fact, I missed her gang of friends as much as she did. Sly, devious Riker, the immutable Oz and the fire cracker Jordan. In addition, this book gives glimpses into Pen's ultra sexy husband Grant. In the first book Grant is inscrutable and completely and even annoyingly competent. It was a fresh change to read his point of view. Seeing he has insecurities of his own made him even more loveable. Plus Pen and Grant still have the undefinable chemistry even as a married couple. I hope the authors plans on many more books in the series!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Ride the Storm by Karen Chance
Urban Fantasy -August 1st, 2017
4 1/2 stars
Ride the Storm is a fast paced, dazzling novel you won't want to put down! Even better than her previous installment, this series keeps going strong.
As the eighth book in the Cassie Palmer series, Cassie is just starting to understand her powers. In this novel, she is determined to save her friend and love interest Pritkin while somehow preventing a fearsome God from taking over the world. As she zips through time at a dizzying pace we learn more about Cassie's parents and Pritkin’s past. And Cassie must be careful because her closest aid, Pritkin’s demon father, Rosier, is a snarky and manipulative devil with and agenda all his own.
First of all, this book is not a stand alone. This series is like a richly layered cake -lots of complexity and definitely to be savored. It starts at a break neck speed and assumes you already have a good handle of Cassie’s world. As Cassie travels through time, I found myself exhausted with her. I wondered if Cassie's health would suffer from all the stress and lack of help from her ‘supposed’ allies. One thing is for sure, Cassie is pretty much on her own unless she agrees to be a puppet for someone else. Rosier brings character and levity to this story and I also enjoyed a surprisingly touching moment with Cassie and Marco. There are also some fun moments with Billy the ghost. And for fans of the powerful vampire Mircea, the author delves into his history and motivations for his close relationship with Cassie. But, of course, the best moments are when Cassie is able to catch Pritkin in time. Their chemistry is what keeps you glued to the pages. Even though Pritkin does not 'know' Cassie (since she meets him in the past before they were officially introduced), the reader can still feel the strong pull they have towards one another. While the previous book had only glimpses of Pritkin, this book has long satisfying sections that will be sure to please fans and solidify their relationship. The only minor issues are that while Cassie's quest is resolved the end leaves a mini cliffhanger and the book is set at a constant ‘frantic’ pace that sometimes I felt I needed to breathe.
Reviewed from Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Dragonsworn by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance - August 1st, 2017
4 stars
As the second book in the Dragons Rising trilogy, Dragonsworn is a delightful read with high stakes.
Falcyn is a noble dragon-shifter that wants no part of anything to do with the God Apollo, especially his cursed children. Estranged from his son and living a ‘half’ life - he is merely existing. When a warrior woman named Medea comes to ask for his aid. He is in no mood to help anyone and certainly not the granddaughter of Apollo! However, soon Falcyn finds himself admiring Medea. For Medea is unlike any of the Apollites he has met before. She cares deeply and she makes him want to care, too. But in order to help her he will have to sacrifice himself and after a disastrous prior relationship Falcyn is more than a little gun shy. Plus helping her may cause catastrophic consequences.
This is a quick and rather short read that is highly imaginative and entertaining. Even better than the first installment, I found myself quickly immersed in the main characters. My favorite parts are reading about past characters that reappear for more than just a token amount of time and how Medea and Falcyn get to know each other. Sherrilyn Kenyon spends a great deal of time with Medea and Falcyn working together. (And their awesome skills!) The reader can feel their growing admiration for each other. Both have terrible pasts but I liked that Medea has used it to help shape her into the strong and confident person she has become. On the other hand, Falcyn had become somewhat embittered. His estrangement from his son an awful blow. I also enjoyed reading about Falcyn’s offspring and hope their stories will be continued in the next installment of this amazing series. My only gripe with this novel is that I wish it had been longer. As a long time fan of Sherrilyn Kenyon’s books I miss her more lengthy and in depth fantasies.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
July Reviews
Fly Away with Me by Susan Fox
Contemporary Romance -July 25th, 2017
4 stars
Eden Blaine is used to working hard and being responsible. Her loves her work and her whole life is mapped out. But all theses 'plans' fly out the window when her mother is diagnosed with cancer and she feels she has to put her life of hold. Her main concern is to grant her mother her biggest wish. To find the older sister that disappeared many years ago. Her aunt's disappearance was a family secret. Eden was unaware she even had an aunt but she is determined to find her and put her mother's anxiety to rest. The only clue their family has is an old letter she sent Eden's grandparents about a commune she joined in Blue Moon Harbor. On the way to Blue Moon Harbor Eden meets Aaron Gabriel, a seaplane pilot. They hit it off and Aaron asks her out with no strings attached. Aaron is handsome and charming but not the commitment type. Regularly the serious Eden would stay away. She is the commitment type. But after a fresh break up with her ex and the stress of her mother's diagnosis she decides it might be nice to just have fun for once. Soon Eden an Aaron find they like each other very much but when it is time for Eden to leave they fight. Still, Eden thinks of Aaron when she gets back home and Aaron can't stop thinking about either! Maybe this fling really is something more. But can Aaron open himself up to the love and vulnerability of a true relationship especially since he has been burned so in the past?
On the surface, Eden's trip to Blue Moon Harbor seems straightforward but when Eden and Aaron meet they both feel an instant attraction. Neither is the others 'type,' and in any other circumstances they would usually steer clear of each other. Someone as 'serious' as Eden and as carefree as Aaron just seem to mis-matched on the surface. I liked their surprise as both of them found a lot in common and bring out the best in each other. It was fun to read Eden let loose and enjoy the peaceful and friendly environment in Blue Moon. It has probably been the first time in a long time she has been able to relax. I liked that Aaron helped her get out of her comfort zone and show her another way of life outside of the hectic city. Usually Aaron goes out with woman who are only looking for a good time and they don't look too deep into his life. But Eden seems to care about him and his life. At first it bothers him that she wants to know about him and his past. However, when his sister calls and asks for help he is forced to look at his childhood and how is has affected his current life. Can he open himself up to love when every time he has tried it has ended with pain? Both Aaron and Eden are on a path of self discovery that makes their stories both tender and sweet. I hope the author writes romances that include Aaron's down on her luck sister and the romantic soul that owns the local bookstore, too!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
All or Nothing at All (The Billionaire Builders Book 3) by Jennifer Probst
Contemporary Romance -July 25th, 2017
4 stars
As the third book the author’s popular Billionaire Builders series, this book can be read as a stand alone. Three contentious brothers inherit their father’s company but only if they can work together. And along the way they find love....
Tristan Pierce finds the Sydney Greene utterly distracting. So when she wants a promotion in his Pierce brothers company, he agrees she deserves it. But he also wonders if doing so will jeopardize his sanity. His other brothers wholeheartedly want her but with her increased responsibilities Tristan won’t be able to avoid her. Years ago Tristan had a heated affair with Sydney and then he left her and the town that he wanted to forget. Sydney still has an unsettling effect on him. But Tristan refuses to give into his emotions or make himself vulnerable. But at what cost?
This book is sexy and super steamy. Tristan certainly knows how to keep Sydney satisfied in the bedroom. But the problem is that Tristan refuses to open his heart and Sydney realizes that she doesn’t want anything less. I felt very sympathetic to the sweet and good hearted Sydney. Unfortunately, her young heart was given to Tristan long ago and she can’t seem to retrieve it for another man. Everything about this book has all the hallmarks of an entertaining and enjoyable read. The only issue for me is that I never completely warmed up to Tristan. He knows Sydney loves him but until it is almost too late he cannot give anything really of himself. I felt Sydney was often short changed and even wished she could find someone who might be a bit worthier of her. Sydney has fought adversity and is the best kind of heroine. So full marks for the heroine, the and the rest of the characters but 1 star removed for the often frustrating hero.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Beautiful Tempest: A Novel (Malory-Anderson Family) by Johanna Lindsey
Historical Romance - July 11th, 2017
4 stars
Jacqueline Malory is all grown up. Young and beautiful and bent on finding the one responsible for abducting her. But her infamous father, Captain Hawk, wants to met his own revenge and keep his daughter in the safety of London. However, Jacqueline or ‘Jack’ isn’t exactly safe in England. When she attends a masquerade ball she meets a fascinating stranger. Intrigued by the handsome man she wants to discover his identity. Only to find that he is not an easy flirtation. But the exact man her father has been hunting and he has abducted Jack again. However, Damon may not be the terrible villain she once thought. In fact, Jack is coming dangerously close to liking him.... But what will happen when her notorious father finds them? And why does he really want with her?
This romance will thrill fans of the Johanna Lindsey as several prior characters from her popular books make appearances. It made me wish that the author had reprised her old characters further. Jack is feisty and her love interest, Damon, is a smooth and cunning devil. Damon is bent on his own revenge but he has shady connections that make it difficult fo Jack to trust him. Both have a undeniable chemistry. I enjoyed reading about the mysterious Damon’s past and why he abducted Jack. Plus the villains were deliciously evil. This entertaining read was quick, easy read and perfect for a relaxing beach read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Grave Ransom by Kalayna Price
Urban Fantasy -July 4th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
Grave Ransom is the fifth in the Alex Craft series about a grave witch that can talk with the dead.
Alex Craft is just trying to adjust to life with her boyfriend Death and make enough money to pay the bills. However, this all changes when she gets a case to find a missing teenage boy named Remy. She thinks it will be easy open and shut investigation. But instead of finding him alive she finds him dead and without his soul. Soon she discovers that the boy is linked to a mysterious string of robberies. Alex is then reluctantly pulled into a partnership with the Magical Crimes Investigation Bureau under the cold supervision of the unsympathetic Briar Darque. It is not a match made in heaven -especially when Briar ruthlessly puts Alex’s life on the line. Can Alex protect her own hide, those she loves and find the evil mastermind before more people die?
A mixture of horror, fantasy and clever mystery. This book leads the reader into unexpected and completely addicting avenues. Alex and her gang are likable and well meaning. Unfortunately, their powers put them at risk and Alex finds herself putting the case before her personal happiness. Her often absent boyfriend, Death, is mysterious and sexy. The author leaves tantalizing clues about his job and I hope he will continue to make appearances. Falin, the enigmatic Winter Knight Fae makes a larger appearance in this novel and is Alex’s bodyguard. His knowledge and experience add depth to the story. And Alex really needs the help. While Alex tries to help Remy she finds herself also relying on another grave witch who has her own set of skills named Rianna. Rianna is an especially interesting character as she has her own set of skills and I hope we will read more about her -or perhaps she gets her own story sometime?! The author keeps introducing new layers and mysteries that add to the series and keep it fresh. The characters and stories in this series always surprise me and make me want to know more. I hope Kalayna Price keep this series going on for a long. long while and maybe the fascinating Falin can take an even bigger role in Alex’s life, too!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Heroine Worship by Sarah Kuhn
Paranormal Romance- July 4th, 2017
4 stars
Heroine Worship is the second installment in the author's Heroine Complex series. Stunning original and completely hilarious this book never lets up!
Annie Chang AKA Aveda Jupiter is part of the infamous duo of super heroines that protect San Francisco. A loser in school, she discovered her superpowers and re-crafted herself into her alter ego Aveda Jupiter. Strong and resourceful but arrogant and pushy her new identity tends to rub her friends and the citizens of San Francisco the wrong way. Her partner and best friend, Evie Tanaka is the opposite. The city’s new sweetheart. And Annie is trying not to be too jealous. So when Evie announces her upcoming wedding and Annie's position as her maid of honor, she feels compelled to make it the very best. But what Annie thinks Evie wants is not always what Evie really wants. This leads to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. To make matters more complicated, there is a demon on the loose and Annie in the mist of an identity crisis. If she isn't a super heroine, who is she?
Funny, off beat and fast paced. This novel has romance, zany characters, and some serious mojo. Annie is tough and prickly. She is used to being strong. An action type of gal. Feelings? Best not to think about, especially since it makes her feel vulnerable. But as her best friend garners all the lime light Annie is pushed to the side and must reevaluate her actions and who she really is. Her nemesis, Scott seems to be constantly giving her the cold shoulder. She thinks he is extremely hot and can't help being annoyed with him. With Evie preoccupied with her new fiancee, Annie feels left out and her disapproving parents only make things worse. Annie has a lot on her check list -get back her mojo, deal with Scott, kill some demon a## and throw a wedding to remember. That's a lot of pressure but reading Annie working her inner super heroine and dealing with some hilarious bridezillas make for fresh and an entertaining story.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Summer Reviews 2017
June Reviews
The Pleasures of Passion by Sabrina Jeffries
Historical Romance -June 20th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
This long awaited story in the the author's Sinful Suitors series will be sure to please readers who have wanted to know more about the mysterious, rapscallion Niall. Niall fled to Spain under suspicious circumstances after a notorious duel.
Now pardoned, Niall Lindsey is back in London, a cynical and bitter man. The woman he loved threw him over at the first sign of trouble and married another man almost immediately after he had to flee England. However, Niall can't seem to get away from the newly widowed and beautiful Brilliana Trevor. Older and even more gorgeous, she enchants him still. Soon they both find themselves blackmailed into working as spies together to investigate her father.
Brilliana loved and lost when the man who she thought she loved betrayed her. He had begged her to leave the country with him but would not tell her why. With a sick mother and an irresponsible father, Brilliana choose her family over Niall Lindsey. And soon discovered her decision was correct when it was revealed that he left over a duel with his mistress. Obviously, Niall never really loved her at all! But now he's back and her poor heart can't forget him. When she is blackmailed into helping the government find a counterfeiter and the only cover is Niall as her fiancee Brilliana, she is forced to relive old hurts and passions
Can they forgive and forget or will they let misunderstandings tear them apart yet again?
After reading about Niall and Brilliana in previous books, their story is finally realized and the wait was worth it! (This book can be read easily as a stand alone.) Niall was young and honorable. Unfortunately, it caused his disgrace and ruin. After working for the government he is finally given clemency and returning home. But the cost of those years changed him and the disillusionment of a disappointed young love have made him bitter. He denies his love for Brilliana, but there really hasn’t been any other. He blames her for some of his unhappiness. Brilliana also has had trials from her sick mother and wretched father. One that she has had to endure until her husband died. While she liked and respected her husband she never loved him. Seeing Niall return has her emotions in upheaval. She feels he never really loved her as she loved him and being forced to work with him is painful and yet he makes her feel alive. As these two characters try to deny their true feelings this book was funny, passionate and a little bittersweet. It was interesting to read how each feel bound by their responsibility to others and read how both are betrayed. They must find forgiveness -not just to each other but for the past and their youth. Brilliana and Niall have deeply suffered and finally reading them together was sweet, indeed! Sabrina Jeffries has done a spectacular job of creating sympathetic characters that tug at the heart strings.
A love meant to be is finally realized in this dazzling new romance.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Dating You Hating You by Christina Lauren
Contemporary Romance - June 6th, 2017
4 1/2 stars
This fun, frolicking romance will have you merrily entertained.
Evie is celebrity agent extra ordinaire. If only her sexist boss would give her a break. But Evie loves her jobs despite her boss and is an admitted workaholic. Unfortunately, her newly married friends think she should find someone and end up happily married, too. So they set her up at a costume party with a sweet and sexy guy named Carter. Carter and Evie have the same, clever sense of humor and hit it off. Soon Evie thinks that this one might have potential. He is also an agent and the have so much in common. But everything backfires when their companies merge and that mean down sizing. Carter and Evie find themselves competing for the same job. At first they try to work as a team and see if they can work on getting the company to keep them both. However, little slights and miscommunications soon become an all out war as both vie for the same spot. But Carter and Evie can't seem to stop think of each other and maybe a job isn't worth a forever kind of romance.
Christina Lauren has done it again! This sharp and sexy romance had me from the first page. Evie is witty and earnest. She loves her work and really like Carter, too. Their cute texts are a hoot to read and their personalities will charm readers. Carter is hot and sweet. Did I mention hot?! I enjoyed reading how the authors go back and forth between each of the main characters’ view points. Carter is a genuine guy that feels he is under his brother's shadow. He wants to prove himself but not at the expense of the woman he has come to love. I liked how the authors show Evie's struggle in a male dominated atmosphere to succeed. And how Carter supports her and does not use his male edge to get ahead of her. Although they do fight they are not ruthless but their high jinx are hilarious. Sometimes I felt it was a somewhat unorthodox form of courtship. This novel has so much joy and laughter - it is the ultimate feel good book.
Utterly irresistible, this book is a keeper!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Moonbreaker (Secret Histories) by Simon Green
Urban Fantasy -June 6th, 2017
4 ½ stars
Moonbreaker is the latest installment in Simon Green's wildy imaginative Secret Histories series. The exhilarating novel will have you wishing for more!
Eddie Drood comes from a long line of somewhat unscrupulous heroes. The Drood family has been responsible for saving the world many times over. But now Eddie and his family have been targeted by the mysterious Dr. DOA. As a result, Eddie has been infected with an incurable disease. But he is determined to hunt down the assassin and protect his family despite the cost to his body. With him is her girfriend, the untamed and dangerous witch Molly Metcalf. She still hopes to find a cure for Eddie and stands with him as they pursue Dr. DOA. But Dr. DOA has plenty of tricks up his sleeve and he will make Eddie’s last days very difficult. Can Eddie stop Dr. DOA before the damage he intends to unleash upon the world/s occurs? As Eddie's illness progresses so does his weakness. He may already be too late to save anyone, let alone himself.
Simon Green's imagination knows no bounds as his latest Secret Histories novel never lets up. Eddie is literally racing against the clock. Determined to kill his murderer before all hell breaks loose. He and Molly find themselves in an alternate dimension, pitted against demons and angels and looking at the extinction of the Drood family. Heavy stuff. As usual, Eddie and Molly carry their adventures with flair and a zany madness that makes this book a hilarious and tense read. This series is outlandishly original and always fresh. One of my favorite section is when Eddie is stuck in an alternate dimension with Molly he must battle against the enemy of the Drood family there. The mayhem and destruction are glorious fun to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Sovereign Silk by Elizabeth Gilligan
Fantasy -June 6th, 2017
4 stars
In a Renaissance world filled with magic and nefarious court intrigue, the Kingdom of Tyrrhia is under siege from within. And as the Queen’s pregnancy comes to term so does the stress for the King and those around him. Thankfully the King’s brother, Duke Stefano and his Romani Duchess Luciana are there to help them. However, assassination attempts and power hungry relatives are among the troubles that Stefano and Luciana must deal with. Luciana is a strong woman who hopes to protect her unborn child and her beloved husband. But a petulant princess and enemies from another country make for dangerous times....
As the third book in the Silken Magic series, this complex book cannot be easily read as a stand alone. The magical and historically rich novel will fascinate readers. It reminded me of the popular Katherine Kurtz Deryni series. Elizabeth Gilligan has created an elaborate series filled with intrigue and deadly backstabbing. The love and devotion (although not lingered over in the story) between Stefano and Luciana are a breathe of fresh air. The author also spends a great deal of time showing more about the Romani and their deep culture My only wish is that the author had spent more time on the characters themselves than the plot. The storyline has many tumultuous ups and downs. It has a satisfying ending but leaves the series open for a more uncertain future.
Readers of fantasy, romance and old world Italy will find this sprawling series a joy.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club