Winter Reviews 2015
February Reviews
Running Blind by Cindy Gerard
Contemporary Romance -Feb. 24th, 2015
4 ½ stars
As the third full length novel in the One-Eyed Jacks series this book can easily be read as a stand alone. But since it features characters from prior books it will make you want to read more of the series. Especially Eva and Mike’s story which figures prominently in the book.
As part of the One-Eyed Jacks, black-ops counter terrorism group, Jamie Cooper loves his team. He takes great pride in protecting his country and enjoys the thrill he gets from the being the best at what he does. And with his model-like looks he has never wanted for female attention. But trouble lurks in the smart, blonde, Bombshell named Rhonda Burns. She is a expert computer hacker and has recently joined their tight team. The problem is that Cooper can’t stop thinking about her - in his bed! Unfortunately, she is the first woman that hasn’t wanted anything to do with him. Oh man, he wants her bad but since she now part of the team it is definitely hands off. Work doesn’t mix with pleasure, or does it?! When their team is targeted by as assassin bent on revenge, one of the team is shot and put in critical condition. Cooper and the rest of the crew hunt for the identity of the shooter and find themselves embroiled in a plot against the Russians. When another of Cooper’s teammates is put out of commission he finds himself working in very close proximity with Rhonda. Although they both try to deny their sexual attraction, they soon find themselves heating the sheets. But Rhonda doesn’t want any commitment. She’s done it before and it broke her heart. Can Cooper break through to Rhonda and show her their love is worth taking a second chance on?
This book opens with some seriously hot sexual tension as Cooper is brooding about his attraction to Rhonda. A woman that won’t give him the time of day. It was fun to read because it is something he isn’t used to! But Rhonda isn’t as oblivious to Jamie’s charms as she lets on. Soon the team is crippled by the mysterious assassin -which makes the story extremely fast paced and sexy. Their concern over their fallen teammate, hunting down the shooter and trying to tone done their sexual attraction makes this book exciting and steamy. Rhonda starts out as the typical Ice Queen. Sort of one dimensional in the beginning. But she is full of surprises! I particularly liked how she shows her skills with the computer and her kick ass combat skills to help the team as the book progresses. She has some serious mojo that will make her a favorite heroine in the series. Jamie can’t resist brains, beauty and a woman who knows how to handle a gun. What more can he ask for? But Rhonda’s past holds her back from finding love or excepting it. When they are place in a position of life or death her resolved is tested and this is when Rhonda finally shows her emotional side. Until that time, I admired Rhonda but had difficulty finding her likeable. She and Jamie make a deadly duo and thoroughly matched each other. This was one satisfying read from start to finish. Readers will be rewarded with a adrenaline rush that will keep them rivirted from the first page.
Thrilling read with sexual tension and tons danger to keep the pages turning. Oh, yeah!
The Master by Kresley Cole
Contemporary Romance -Feb. 17th, 2015
4 ½ stars
The Master is part of the author's sexy Game Maker series about tough Russian men with dark pasts and a taste for BDSM. This book can easily be read by itself. But watch out it! It will make you want to read the other book in the series- guaranteed!
Catarina Marín is on the run, working under an assumed name as a maid. She is desperate for more money to move to the next city to hide. And takes a one time job as a high paid escort as a favor to the real escort that can't show. But the man in question prefers tall, thin blondes. And Cat is a curvy, brunette spitfire. When they first meet sparks fly. Cat is nervous and unsure but the arrogant, if handsome and wealthy Maksimilian Sevastyan pushes all her buttons. And soon Maksim is trying to persuade her to stay when Cat is ready to walk out on him! After the best sex of her life Cat vows to never see him again. But soon he is harassing the escort company to find her and book her for another night, and then another. Cat finds herself overwhelming attracted to Makim and torn between fleeing and staying with the most fascinating man she has ever met. She knows must leave the city before she is discovered by her deadly pursuer. As Cat tries to run from her past she increasingly puts the man that she may be falling in love with and herself in increasing danger. Will she be able to find love and happiness before in an impossible situation?
At first, I wasn't sure if I would like this book. I am a big fan of the author's paranormal books but contemporary romance was a bit change, especially since it has some BDSM. I didn’t think it would be my cup of tea. But was I wrong! The characters in this book sparkle of the page. I can see them in my mind- they seem that real. Cat is a smart, sexy woman that has been burned by one bad decision when she was very young. Now is paying, maybe with her life. She has had to learn the hard way to lean only on herself and when she finds an uncontrollable man that wants her to stay in his life, she is afraid. She has had to live in hiding she doesn't know if she can trust him with her secrets. Maksim is a man used to getting what he wants all the time. He isn't used to being told, 'No.' But Cat challenges him and their sex is off the charts. But he suspects she has another man and tries to find ways to control her, but Cat is not someone he can tame. Frustrated and in love he doesn't know how to behave. This was a thrilling romance because the sparks between the two of the main characters are so hot. Their dialogue is exhilarating to read especially as they try to outsmart each other. Cat is not one to be bullied by a man no matter how rich or attractive. The scenes in bed are even hotter than they dialogue. This is definitely one erotic, steamy romance. Readers will find this a rewarding departure from the author's paranormal genre.
Hot, sultry and outrageously entertaining this erotic book will surprise and delight readers.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Jaguar Pride by Terry Spear
Paranormal Romance -Feb. 3rd, 2015
4 stars
Huntley Anderson and Melissa Overton are JAG agents. They are jaguar shifter that fight to protect their race from poaching and kidnapping. They also work to save jaguars in the wild. When they are assigned to find two lost shifter cubs the stakes rise. And tensions mount when they find the cubs and discover their parents may still be alive. However, complications arise when as both shifters find each other attractive. As passion ignites between them they discover a comfortable closeness and an even stronger partnership. Huntley and Melissa soon find themselves in falling in bed and love. But a ruthless shifter is on the prowl and Huntley and Melissa are put in terrible danger.
This was a fun, thrilling romance. Terry Spear excels at creating a fast moving story that will keep reading turning the pages. Huntley and Melissa are strong characters that have just picked the wrong partners. But finally they are both free and their natural attraction develops. They make a wonderful couple/partnership. Huntley admires Melissa and realizes how strong she is. He appreciates her ability and need to protect and does not underestimate her like her ex. He lets her be herself. Melissa has always been attracted to Huntley and always wished they could be something more. She appreciates how he sees her as an equal and is not threatened by her strength. Huntley is a good guy and a bit of an alpha. The best part of the romance is reading how well they get along together. Their romance is so natural I loved how easily they fell from friends to lovers. While some romances seem forced this one seemed inevitable and well-deserved. I loved reading them find love.
Both characters are decent and emotionally happy people (without any real baggage or drama) that deserved to find happiness.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The First Kiss by Grace Burrowes
Contemporary Romance -Feb. 3rd, 2015
4 stars
The First Kiss is part of Grace Burrowes new series about hunky lawyers that fall in love!
World class pianist, Vera Walton, married unwisely the second time around. When her first husband died, she should never have married another man so soon after. The terrible divorce proceedings have become a nightmare. When she discovers the tire on her truck slashed she realizes her divorce has become truly nasty. Her ex seems to have developed a more menacing, violent side. With her young daughter involved, Vera has decided to obtain a restraining order. And the man that comes to her rescue is the sexy brother of her divorce lawyer, Trent Knightly.
Trent is doing a favor by dropping off papers to his brother's elderly client. But to his surprise, the old lady is actually a very young and very attractive one! After helping Vera with her flat tire and sharing a hot chocolate with the lovely woman, he finds himself smitten. But Vera wants no part of men. Especially with her ex-husband harassing her. She just wants to live quietly and take care of her precocious daughter. But Trent's strength attracts her. And Vera soon find herself falling for Trent. Except danger from an unstable ex may ruin their budding romance.
This realistic book showcases Grace Burrowes understanding of the law and the people that it affects. However, this sometimes made the story feel slow moving and drag. I enjoyed getting to know the hero and heroine. Vera has a quiet strength that draws Trent. I liked that she was unconventional and unapologetic about who she is. Her confidence draws Trent. A man that never thought he would settled down finds Vera irresistible. The added drama of the the messy divorce adds tension and interest to the story.
This romance is sweet and tender with a surprising ending that packs a punch!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
January Reviews
Against the Sky by Kat Martin
Contemporary Romance -Jan. 27th, 2015
4 stars
A sexy detective finds love and danger in this exciting new book by Kat Martin.
Nick Brodie lives in Alaska but takes a break from work and goes on a short vacation to wild, Vegas. While there, he finds himself rescuing a damsel in distress.
Samantha is in Las Vegas for a Pet Convention. As part owner of the Perfect Pet she trying to market her business but she is tired and alone since her partner decided at the last minute not to accompany her. When a drunk man won't take, “No.” She is saved by a tall, handsome stranger named Nick. And starts a whirlwind fling, with consequences....
When she returns back home she discovers she is pregnant! But she knows Nick isn't interested in anything permanent. However, Nick finds that he misses Samantha and decides to visit her. But is he ready for commitment? And what happens when he invites Samantha to his beloved Alaska and gets them stuck in a dangerous situation?
This book was the perfect blend of plot and characterization. Nick and Samantha are magical together. I particularly loved how Nick is not afraid in his work or his new relationship with Samantha. When he realizes that he misses her, he takes action and visits her. When he discovers that she is pregnant he is willing to take responsibility and even explore a deeper relationship! He is a strong man with strong shoulders to lean on and whole lot of integrity. Samantha is already half in love with Nick and when he invites her to visit his home town she falls completely. I enjoyed reading how they explore their attraction and come to a deeper love that seems very genuine. The mystery just adds that extra spice to complete this romance.
This was a fantastic romance with a stellar hero that readers will adore!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
If the Viscount Falls by Sabrina Jeffries
Historical Romance -Jan. 27th, 2015
4 1/2 stars
If the Viscount Falls is the stunning conclusion to Sabrina Jeffries's Duke series and the one I have been eagerly awaiting.
The honorable and disinherited Lord Dominick Manton gave up his beloved fiancee, when he faced scandal from his unscrupulous brother. But his brother, Viscount Rathmoor, has just died. And Dominick is the new Viscount Rathmoor. Although, several years later, Dom has been restored to his birthright. But it is too late. The woman that he loves, Miss Jane Vernon, is now engaged to another man. Jealous but refusing to ruin her life further he is determined to stay away from her. Until she seeks him out. For while Dom was disowned he had supported himself by becoming an investigator. Jane pleas for him to help find her missing cousin Mary. While they search for Mary, Jane and Dom are thrown together. And find that their passion never died out. But Dom hurt Jane in an attempt to save her from his downfall in society. Can she forgive him and will Dom confess his despicable actions?
This was a sweet romance. And one that I couldn't wait to get my hands on. The prior books in the series show glimpses of the yearning between Dom and Jane. And I have always wondered what lay between them. Dom is the strong, silent, and suffering type. So noble but also stubborn. He loves Jane so much that he wants a better for her, even if it doesn't include him! But Jane knows her mind and she wants Dom. I loved reading the normally ladylike Jane go after Dom and Dom fall for her even more despite himself. The author gives the reader a merry chase as Dom and Jane hunt for Mary and find a truer and stronger love than in their youth. This romance is about second chances. It is a very romantic novel as Dom and Jane are meant for each other. When they finally find happiness it is sweet, indeed!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Just the Way You Are by Beverly Barton
Contemporary Romance -Jan. 27th, 2015
3 1/2 stars
Just the Way You Are is a romance that should have been exciting but fell a little flat.
Mary Beth has found a charming fiancee but on the day of their engagement party she finds he has cheated on her with another woman. Heartbroken she looks for solitude to recover. That is when a hot man finds her and gives her 'comfort.' Appalled by her behavior at finding another man attractive she is even more shocked to discover the man she is attracted to is her fiancee's older brother, Parr! Parr is sexy and responsible almost the exact opposite of her fun loving fiancee. The problem is that Parr isn't looking for a relationship and he doesn't want to fight his brother for the same woman. But he also knows that Mary Beth is too good for his brother. What will Parr do when he finds himself inexorable drawn to the sweet Mary Beth?
This book starts out promising. The heat between Mary Beth and Parr is off the charts. But poor Mary Beth is torn between her family, her cheating fiancee and the enigmatic Parr. Mary Beth is sweet and naive. She just wants to be happy but she is young and inexperienced with men. Parr isn't looking for a relationship and doesn't want to steal his brother's woman. So he hurts the woman he is coming to care for by blowing hot and cold. I felt bad for Mary Beth, she is getting mixed signals from her careless fiancee and the enigmatic Parr. This romance is a roller coaster of emotions, that I found sometimes found difficult to read. Often I thought it would be better if Mary Beth left them all and decided to start a new life somewhere else. I wanted Parr to say the heck with his brother and pursue Mary Beth. While this does happen it is a long time coming.
This emotional roller coaster will have readers hanging onto their seats.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
In For the Kill by Shannon McKenna
Contemporary Romance -Jan. 27th, 2015
4 1/2 stars
In For the Kill is the final book in the author's spectacular McClouds series.
Svetlana Ardova is a beautiful and tragic figure. Desired by men but elusive, she is haunted by her terrible past. A past that forces to put herself in perilous waters. She vows to protect other from slavery. But one hardened and sexy, ex-cop, named Sam Petrie vows he will protect her with his life. He has yearned for Sveti for years and now that she is older he has decided to pursue her. However, Sam's searing sexuality scares Sveti as much as it excites her. And while he tires to protect her she is determined to live her conscience and find the truth behind her mother's death. But this starts her on a cascade of actions that will put her into grave danger.
Ultra hot, this thrilling romance will have you wishing this series would never end. Sam is the alpha hero. Tough, smart and insatiable! He adores Sveti but he lacks the smooth moves, however, makes up for that with his dogged sincerity and white hot passion. He can't keep his hands off of Sveti and I loved how much he adored her. The scenes are erotic and primal. Any woman would want to be in her shoes. But Sveti is also a very likeable character. Intelligent and righteous, she is an idealist that wants to save others even if it means she must sacrifice herself. Of course, Sam won't allow that to happen and he's got the big guns to save her. For me this book is bittersweet, In For the Kill has returning characters, a heroine I've wanted to find love and a super sexy hero.
Fans of this series won't be disappointed and I hope the authors starts another series soon!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Falling for Jillian by Kristen Proby
Contemporary Romance – Jan. 27th, 2015
4 stars
City girl, Jillian is smart, ambitious and heartbroken when she discovers her ex is having a child with his new woman. When she couldn't conceive at all. So she runs to her dear friend Cara who lives in Montana. But finds herself consoling herself with Cara's attractive brother Zach instead! Soon Jillian is falling in love with Zach and his precocious son Seth. It seems that she may have found a ready made family. Zach is caring and kind and he doesn't mind she can't have children since he has a son he adores already. But Zach's lying and cheating wife has left deep scars behind. He has serious trust issues and rages at Jillian when be believes she has lied to him. Breaking her heart and her trust. Can she forgive him?
This story is told in the first person which took me a while to get used to. Jillian is an earthy and open character that speaks her mind. She loves Zach and his son and Zach loves her. This was realistic romance about love and second chances. Zach and Jillian are imperfect characters. Zach at first seem like the dream man but half way through the book he becomes almost unrecognizable. His previous marriage hurt him and he sees Jillian with eyes clouded by his treacherous, cheating ex-wife. When he hurts Jillian he soon realizes she isn't the same as his ex but words can't be taken back. Although I was shocked by Zack's behavior I liked how he tried to make up to Jillian, make amends and change himself. But my favorite character in the story was Seth who feels the lack of motherly love and is sometimes smarter than his father and aids in getting Jillian back.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Beyond Limits by Laura Griffin
Romantic Suspense -Jan 27th. 2015
4 1/2 stars
Elizabeth LeBlanc is an FBI agent on the rise. She lives for her job but her latest assignment was been anything but smooth. When she is assigned to aid the important Gordon Gecko, she can't believe her luck. He could fast track her career -if she doesn't mess up her next case. She is supposed to investigate a potential terrorist attack on US soil. Unfortunately, the terrorist/suspect that could help them was returned to his country. Without leads, time is running out and she finds herself trusting a sexy Navy SEAL named Derek Vaughn.
Derek was on the team that caught the terrorist before he was returned. And he has a grudge. On that mission he lost one of his teammates and he wants retribution and way to make his friend's death meaningful. He knows Elizabeth and she has haunted his dreams. When he discovers that she on the case to discover if there is a connection between the man they captured and a terrorist attack on US soil he jumps at the chance to find the truth and spend time with Elizabeth. As they work together they uncover an unbelievable plot. Can they stop the enemy before it is too late?
Beyond Limits is an adrenal rush. This intelligent book leads a clever and exciting trail the characters must race to solve. Elizabeth is a hard-nosed agent bent on her career. She has met Derek before and doesn't want to succumb to his charms. He may want her but she doesn't sleep with a man without some sort attachment. And she doesn't want heartache with the sexy SEAL. Especially since he lives a high risk lifestyle and is always off on unpredictable, deadly missions. But Derek is bent on having Elizabeth if only to get her out of his system. But he soon realizes that one encounter is not enough. As they work to uncover the terrorist plot, tensions run high and so does their relationship. Their chase to save civilians is filled with unexpected twists and turns. Readers will love the way the author skillfully drives the story to its explosive climax.
Unexpected and thrilling, this book is a winner!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Hungry Like the Wolf by Paige Tyler
Paranormal Romance –Jan 6th. 2015
4 stars
The Dallas SWAT team is the best at what they do. But their sterling record makes journalist, Mackenzie Stone suspicious. No team of men can that be good and squeaky clean. And she is right. For the Dallas SWAT team is composed of werewolves. Dangerous men that will protect their secret at any cost. But Mackenzie is like a dog with an old shoe, she won't let go. Especially since her gut is screaming the SWAT team has a hidden story. So she is surprised when the team invites her join them on their missions. To show her that they are upfront and completely innocent. But nothing gets away from Mackenzie. When she discovers the truth about them will she uphold her vow of truth and reveal their secrets? Especially when she has fallen in love with their sexy leader, Gage Dixon.
This is a great series that will make you wish there really was a SWAT team of smokin’ hot werewolves to protect our cities! Mackenzie is sassy and intrepid. Her fearless nature makes her a wonderful reporter. However, her need to uphold the truth versus betraying the man she loves puts her in deep inner conflict. She must make a tough decision that will not only affect her future but others as well. Gage is the alpha among alphas, as the pack leader he must keep his team in check. He doesn’t have time fro a nosy journalist. But there is something about Mackenzie that draws him. And he can’t seem to keep his hands off of her. This was a solid read, I only wish Mackenzie had been less black and white in her actions. Sometimes I found it a bit hard to warm up to her character.
Sexy shifters and a ton of action make this an explosive read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
How to Plan a Wedding for a Royal Spy by Vanessa Kelly
Historical Romance – Jan. 6th, 2015
4 stars
Captain William Endicott is a decorated war hero. But when he comes back home to England he discovers his work is not done. His father, the Duke of York demands that he spy on an old love from his past. A woman that may be connected to am imminent royal assassination. But the Evie Whitney he remembers would never betray her country. And the more he sees her the more convinced she is an innocent in any possible conspiracy. But she is still engaged to a man that may have Irish sympathies. Their close proximity reminds him how much he cares for her. And the more he spies on her the more guilty he feels. Will she forgive him once the truth comes out?
This was a sweet romance. William is a royal bastard that has always felt an outcast. But Evie has always seen him as a person of worth. When he returns to England he remembers how much he cares for Evie. With Evie he has found acceptance and a home. Evie is smart, kind and a bit nerdy. Which makes her very endearing. She is unaware of her charms and hides them behind her dull clothes. I liked that Evie has a strong moral integrity and stands behind her fiancee. In fact, I felt bad for her fiancee, he seemed a very decent sort. But Evie can’t deny her love for William. It was fun to read William’s jealous thoughts about her fiancee and how it made him realize how much he wanted her for himself. I liked that he could she how beautiful and desirable she was -a hidden gem. I also enjoyed reading how he defended her and felt in his heart she could never be a traitor. This was a sweet romance about second chances.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club