Scarlet's Musings

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2008-06-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

This is a wonderful series for anyone who enjoys the legend of Merlin...

THE RELICS OF MERLIN SERIES: DOUBLE ENCHANTMENT & ENCHANTING THE LADY
"Simply delightful!"~Publishers Weekly
Please visit: http://www.KathryneKennedy.com

Look on the Contest page for a chance to win a beautiful garnet necklace.

The Accidental Countess

2008-01-14T12:34:00.001-08:00

This one is a Keeper!

Read the review here: http://www.romancejunkiesreviews.com/artman/publish/historical/The_Accidental_Countess.shtml

Once Smitten, Twice Shy by Lori Wilde

2008-01-08T06:09:00.001-08:00

Second in the Wedding Veil Wishes series, Once Smitten, Twice Shy is a refreshing romantic adventure of second chances mixed with a little magic.

Tish Gallagher is finished. Her bank account is empty, her car is repossessed, her cable is disconnected and her business, Capture the Moment, is going nowhere. She even managed to let the only man she has ever loved walk away two years ago due to foolish pride. Tish’s friend, Delaney [There Goes the Bride] gave her an antique wedding veil said to have been created by a young witch in Ireland. Legend says if you make a wish on the wedding veil you will see your own true love. When Tish wishes for her business to succeed and her money problems to be eliminated all she sees is Shane, her ex-husband, telling her he is hurt and needs help. Tish doesn’t believe in the legend but it certainly seemed to work for Delaney. When a job videographing the first daughter’s wedding Tish is amazed and delighted to know that this is just the break that’s needed to launch her career into high gear. What is she to do when the groom turns out to be her beloved Shane?

Shane Tremont is Secret Service, assigned to protect the President’s daughter, Elysee. When he is injured while protecting her, Elysee believes he is her true love and knight in shining armor. After a divorce two years prior, Shane is warmed by Elysee’s caring and hero worship. As the country embraces the love story of the government agent and the President’s daughter Shane begins to believe he is truly over his ex-wife Tish. As wedding plans are made and details are finalized Shane realizes the videographer Elysee has hired is none other than his ex-wife, Tish, the woman he still yearns for.

Smart, funny, sexy; Lori Wilde has done it again. Tish and Shane are complex characters whose personalities are gradually revealed, they feel like close friends I wanted to take them under my wing and fix their hurts. The secondary cast adds the extra zip to make this story stand out from the crowd. Elysee is a naïve young woman whom I found endearing yet a little frustrating at times. Her love of being in love gave her a rosy outlook on life I could not easily relate to but she captured my heart anyway. Shane is a real wounded hero whom I fell a little in love with myself. He is kind and generous, strong and intelligent, and looking to be loved completely. His undying love for Tish and hers for him is poignant and will bring a few tears to the eyes. The emotions sizzle whenever they are in the same area, leaving no doubt these two lovers are meant to be together. With plenty of internal conflict, Lori Wilde leads readers on a merry adventure as the cast sets out to save a woman from harm, overcoming obstacles thrown in their paths. I thoroughly enjoyed Once Smitten, Twice Shy and look forward to the next installment of the Wedding Veil Wishes.

HARD TO HANDLE

2008-01-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

Hard to Handle is a gritty, sexy, action-packed page turner.

Harley Handleman has been scheduled for an SBC title fight three times, and something always happens to derail his dream of a title. Recovered from an elbow injury, he is training for and determined not to miss the next opportunity to come his way. Harley is a man who doesn’t make attachments, not since his mother died of cancer, that is. He takes from women what he wants, when he wants and doesn’t stick around for the post coital chatter session. His only long-term relationships are with his coach, Satch, and his landlady of the past three years, Anastasia. The verbal sparring keeps Harley on his toes and when danger comes to Stasia’s door he is the one to protect her, not knowing he is finally about to lose his heart to the sexy woman who haunts his dreams.

Anastasia Bradley has been Harley’s landlady for the past three years in Echo Lake. She has been attracted to the big lunk for just as long. When Harley’s Uncle Satch hires her to be his life coach, it puts her at odds with the sexy fighter, making it difficult to keep her mind on business. When danger comes to her door, she does not want Harley involved, yet he steps in to protect her anyway. Knowing Harley’s “love-em and leave-em” reputation, she is not willing to become another groupie. But the more they are thrown together, and the more dangerous the situation, who will protect her from losing her heart or maybe even her life?

The SBC Fighters series continues with a romantic adventure featuring Harley Handleman as he sets out to win the championship once again. Life has thrown this warrior a lot of curves, but the biggest one is yet to come; a lovely lady named Anastasia Bradley. As a reader, I must admit Harley found a place in my heart in Simon Says and so I was anticipating his story. My expectations were met and surpassed once again by Lori Foster. She took this fictional cast and brought them to vivid life on the pages. These are real people, warts and all which makes them easy to relate to. A plethora of former characters and introductions to new ones make the story a fast moving skillfully woven intrigue with enough twists and turns to keep this reader up late into the night to finish, yet sad for the story to end. Harley and Anastasia is a fine pairing; strong and intelligent, witty and likable. I was captured and held by the sexual chemistry evident from the first introduction. The secondary romance will well please readers hoping Barber would find a love of his own. Not only does Lori Foster write passion well, but she also makes it real.

REALLY SOMETHING by Shirley Jump

2008-01-03T17:31:00.000-08:00

Shirley Jump gives readers a wickedly funny, multilayered romance with memorable characters and secrets everywhere you turn. Never has revenge gone so wrong before. Eight years ago Allie Dean left the town of Tempest, Indiana vowing never to return. Overweight and feeling worthless, Allie strikes out for California where she sheds weight, gets a degree, marries and divorces, and lands a great job scouting locations for movies. Her latest assignment is to scout out her old hometown for the producer’s next teen horror picture, placing the perfect opportunity for revenge right in her lap. What she plans as the perfect payback will end up giving Allie the chance to learn a few of the town’s well guarded secrets and makes her take a good hard look at herself in the process. Payback against the guy who stood her up at the prom unravels as she discovers the secrets he has been keeping about that night, and the fact that she is still in love with him.
Duncan Henry, high school football star turned sexy local weatherman. He tends to predict the weather with a Magic 8-Ball. Tragedy has kept Duncan from pursuing his dream of becoming a TV anchor. When a gorgeous blonde bombshell roars into town she immediately puts Duncan’s libido in high gear. There is something about the woman that stirs his memory but he just can’t seem to hold on to it. In a town riddled with secrets, she seems to be the only honest woman around, reminding him of the girl from high school who was his only real friend. What happens when Duncan discovers Allie isn’t quite as honest as he believed?
Shirley Jump has penned a novel of coming home again, a story of real people, warts and all. Duncan and Allie are intelligent and sympathetic characters, both harboring inner scars and emotional turmoil. Jump expertly blends romance and mystery in a story that is smart, funny, sexy and sensual. Duncan is a hero many women would love to call their own. His innate nobility shines through in every interaction with his sister, leaving this reader in no doubt that he is genuinely warm and caring to a fault. His sex appeal is off the charts, coming through loud and clear with each page turned. Allie is every woman who has ever struggled with her weight. She is completely relatable as the nerdy fat girl in school who has ever fallen for the football star. She is full of human flaws which make her all the more realistic, and her desire for revenge is completely understandable. She is smart, funny, sexy and a perfect foil for our hero. When they share a scene, it is electric. The couple gained my favor from the beginning, knowing they were perfect to heal each other. The journey to love and trust is a rocky one, interspersed with witty banter, snarky humor and passionate love scenes. Clear your plans for the evening, you will want to stay up late to read REALLY SOMETHING.

Anything For Sasha by Samantha Lucas

2008-01-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

At the lowest point of Sasha’s life a man walked into the diner where she works. Her life has been one of strife until Matthew came to Jasper Creek and gave her a night she can’t forget, in more ways than one. When he shows up six months later to discover her secret it puts her life and the town’s secrets in jeopardy. Sasha can’t afford for Matthew to stick around but he doesn’t seem to understand just how dangerous it is for him and for her.

Matthew was driving aimlessly, suffering a little from “empty nest syndrome” when he happens upon a diner in a small Georgia town. Grabbing a bite to eat brings him face to face with a girl he shares a drunken but unforgettable night with, one he walks out on the next morning. She has haunted his dreams for the past six months and though he feels like she is too young for him, heads out on another road trip with his best friend West to find her again. What he finds when they enter the diner is a young woman who is fearful of him and very pregnant.

Shasta, or whatever she calls herself, is keeping secrets. Though he sees the yearning in her eyes, he also sees the fear too. It will take some serious intervention and a little help from his friends to uncover the cause of her fear and to gain him the love of his life.

ANYTHING FOR SASHA by Samantha Lucas cements this author as an auto-buy for this reader from this moment on. These are real people caught up in tragic circumstances, begging for a way to be together. Matthew has some forgiveness to beg, from Sasha and from readers, for his idiotic actions but redeems himself through perseverance and devotion to Sasha. An emotional connection was made immediately; I sensed an undercurrent of sadness and loneliness from both Matthew and Sasha and I wanted so badly to cheer them on as they overcame the horrendous obstacles laid in their path. Matthew is a knight in tarnished armor, ready to do all he can to rescue the woman he loves, despite the hard work involved. Sasha is a tragic young woman I empathized with and wanted to take under my wing like a cherished sister. The cast of characters ranges from the most lovable to the vilest as Samantha Lucas touches the hearts of readers and invokes every range of emotion; love and sadness for Matthew and Sasha, anger and disgust at Jimmy. ANYTHING FOR SASHA is well worth staying up half the night to finish, it is a book I recommend with no reservations.

Too Funny Not to Share

2007-12-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

You Know You're a Bookaholic When...

You've figured out a way to read books in the shower without getting your book wet.

Looking at your 1000+ books in your TBR pile and thinking, "I have nothing to read!"

You haunt the bookstores waiting for that new release, and the clerks ask you if you'd like to set up a tent.

You pack all your books for a trip but forget your underwear.

You're packing for a romantic weekend away with significant other and you give more thought to which books to take than to which nightgown is your sexiest.

The library borrows books from you.

Before you buy a purse you make sure a paperback will fit inside.

You have a purse that fits one hardback, two paperbacks, and a reserve book (just in case something happens to the other three).

You become murderous when you discover a friend lost a book you loaned her.

You put Hershey's Chocolate syrup on your sandwich instead of mustard because you're engrossed in a book.

You had your books organized via Dewey Decimal System when you were in grade school.

You put vanilla in the spaghetti sauce because you're reading at the stove.

Your twin sons' names are Rhett and Ashley.

Your significant other mutters about life in prison not being much of a deterrent to you since you'd be quite content sitting in your cell reading all day.

You look forward to jury duty because you'll have all that waiting time to read.

You call in sick so you can finish reading a book.

You can't pass a bookstore without stopping.

You volunteer to go grocery shopping because there's a bookstore next door.

When visiting a strange town the first thing you do is check the yellow pages for the location of the bookstores.

When you move you have more boxes labeled "books" than anything else.

The first thing anyone says when they enter your house is "have you actually read all those books?"

You plan a day of shopping around all the bookstores you want to visit.

You travel 100 miles to get good books.

You have to constantly invest in new bookshelves.

You have a path because all the books are everywhere.

Your kids holler from the other room with something they consider a dire emergency, and you say, "Wait until I finish this page."

You have no idea what's on television anymore (except for Highlander) because the boob tube has become just another piece of furniture.

You tend to buy frozen, microwavable foods that practically cook themselves so that you don't lose any precious reading time for such an unimportant thing as feeding your family.

You valiantly try to teach your kids "independence," which means you want them to do more household chores (so you can have more reading time).

Your car is broke down, and it doesn't really matter because your favorite bookstore is right across the street.

You're sitting in the bathroom at 1:30 a.m., crying over the ending of your current read, when you know you have to be up at six to drive 150 miles and spend the day on your feet before driving back.

You read at red lights and get honked at because you were so engrossed that you didn't notice the light had turned green.

It's 2am and you think "just another chapter" and do the same thing at 3am when you know you have to get up in 4 hours and work.

You deliberately get to the bus/train station early, or even worse, just miss the bus/train so that you have more reading time.

You start to take several baths during the day because you read in the tub and your kids know this is "private time".

Your significant other runs into the room to make sure you're alright because he heard you wailing so hard over a sad read he thought you were dying.

You try reading and walking at the same time.

You don't really mind if you get stranded anywhere as long as you have enough books while you're there.

You start haunting your mail box when you're waiting for a new book to arrive and can't do anything useful until the mail has arrived.

You start fabricating excuses as to why you can't go out with your friends when you're in the middle of a great book.

You dash out and sit in the park and read during your lunch hour (or sneak in a few chapters at your desk).

You start thinking of the characters as real people.

You can always find some money to buy another book even if you can't afford to buy anything else. When you get desperate you raid the local library.

You leave the country in order to find more books to buy.

Your eyesight goes from 20-20 to legally blind because of reading in poor light.

You miss your stop on the train because you have to finish your current read.

You have to be paged at the local bookstore because your significant other has lost all track of you.

You get a friend or relative hooked on romance so you'll have another place to get books, but unfortunately it doesn't work quite right and they start borrowing from you.

You start up conversations with people in the bookstore who just look like they're dying to read a good romance but are having a hard time finding one.

When you keep a spare book or two in your desk at work, just in case you forget yours at home.

You panic when you only see ten new books out on the shelves at your local bookstore when you know it should be at least twenty.

Scouring the papers for any library booksales or garage sales with 'books' in the text.

As I'm sitting here, laughing, reading and realizing that you all are talking about me behind my back. . . tee hee heee heeee. . . .

And thinking. . . looking forward to payday so I can put buying books into my budget and pushing a bill back just a couple of days.

You try to sneak in a paragraph everytime your web browser loads a new page.

You name your children from characters you've read in books.

An EXPLOSIVE story !

2007-12-28T15:52:00.000-08:00

This debut novel by Charlotte Mede is as EXPLOSIVE as the title indicates. A master spy and a brilliant musician team up to break a deadly code and stop a madman.

Devon Caravelle is the daughter of a brilliant mathematician who is also said to be a traitor to France. Within the manuscript of Beethoven’s Third Symphony, the Er’oica composition, lies a formula so deadly in the hands of the wrong man it may well destroy the world. Devon is trapped in a cat-and-mouse game; blackmailed by a madman into trapping a master spy. The trouble really begins when the spy in question wakes up in a dank cell with a gun trained on him by Devon.

Gray Dalton, the Marquess of Blackburn is a deadly adversary. A master spy for the Crown, he is a brilliant mathematician and code breaker. Gray has an allure that is hard to resist though he thinks Devon is the madman’s mistress. Devon only wants to prove her father’s innocence and find out who killed him. The man known for his cold-bloodedness is now obsessed with a woman who could destroy not only him, but also the innocent people of the world.

A tense and edgy adventure from the first page, EXPLOSIVE is just that. Action-packed with plenty of vile undertones to keep chills running up the spine, it will keep readers on the edge of their seats for the entire novel. With a gothic atmosphere, author Charlotte Mede grabs readers and draws them deep into the intrigue of Gray and Devon’s deadly mission to stop a diabolical plot. The chemistry and passion between Gray and Devon is also EXPLOSIVE, culminating in an intense, dark, and sensual delight. The story is packed with wonderfully complex characters whose personalities are gradually revealed. Devon is a woman I was well able to empathize with. The pawn in a deadly intrigue between two powerful men, she is trapped by the need to prove her father innocent and afraid of the consequences if she fails; hanging. Gray is a cold-blooded and jaded individual since the murder of his brother, until he comes face-to-face with Devon. All bets are off when he is trapped by his own desires, as is Devon. Charlotte Mede’s thorough descriptive prowess places readers right in the thick of the plot, drawing them in for the duration until the climactic ending. The intricate blending of fact and fiction made for a thrilling read. This is truly a book you don’t want to miss.

Carnal Deceptions by Scottie Barrett

2007-12-26T06:35:00.000-08:00

Carnal Deceptions is a compelling ugly duckling story of revenge, jealousy danger, and deceit. Tess is a heroine that many readers will applaud, while Tallon is an incomparable hero many women would love to call their own.
It’s bad enough that Tess has lost her father, but to have creditors descend like vultures picking the bones are another matter entirely. She vows to clear her father’s name and reveal the con man that is responsible or face going to Fleet Prison. Donning the guise of a homely woman Tess sets out on her quest, turning seductress to seduce the man responsible for her father’s ruin. One problem though, Tess has no practical experience with seduction. She will need to enlist the help of someone who is a master in the art of passion. Enter Tallon Hawkes, Earl of Marcliffe…
Tallon is intrigued by the “homely” Tess and her quest to bring about the destruction of their shared enemy. In Tess, Tallon finds a soul mate, one who brings out a possessiveness and jealousy he never knew he possessed. He is focused on ending her mad scheme, but will he end his relationship with her in the process of protecting her?
Carnal Deceptions is a red hot love story of danger, passion, and deception. Tallon and Tess is a brilliant match; equal in passion, strength of character, loyalty and compassion. The fireworks are explosive and the love scenes are off the charts. The author’s descriptive power allowed this reader to step right into the room with the amorous couple, sharing the highly erotic love scenes like a fly on the wall, privy to the emotion flowing between them. A fresh and original cast of characters, the vividly depicted sense of time and place and the emotional highs and lows make Carnal Deceptions by Scottie Barrett a “must read” for anyone who loves a great love story. For those who like their love stories “toned down”, this one is probably not your cup of tea, but if you like lush, red hot love scenes, be sure to pick this one up.

Eden's Pleasure by Kate Pearce

2007-12-26T06:33:00.000-08:00

Caught in a compromising position with the Gervase Harcourt, Eden Carstairs is forced to marry an older man. Now she is widowed and alone, and glad to have escaped a nightmare marriage. Ready to explore the sexual pleasure Gervase and his brother introduced her to years before, Gideon steps forward to introduce her to Madame Desiree’s House of Pleasure. Wanting to make up for past wrongs, Gideon takes Eden under his wing until Gervase steps onto the scene and Eden recalls the love for him that has never died.

Gervase has called himself a fool for letting Eden be married off years before, and now he has a chance to show her just how much she means to him. Not only that, but just how much he has learned in the years that have separated them. He let her go once, will he do so again?

EDEN’S PLEASURE is a dark and sultry decadence filled with secrets and erotic delights. Kate Pearce touches the hearts of readers with the story of Eden’s lost dreams, Gideon’s sad tale and Gervase’s remorse. I was drawn into the story from the beginning; eager to see how there could be a happy ending. Gideon, Gervase and Eden each have a story to tell and their personalities gradually unfold to reveal the total person beneath the surface. The emotional intensity thoroughly delighted and drained me; these three protagonists have hidden depths I will not soon forget. The love scenes are scorching and the performers figuratively burn up the pages. The chemistry is palpable between Gervase and Eden; this reader was well aware this was the true coupling of the trio. If you love the dark side of desire and are itching for an erotic love story, you must not miss EDEN’S PLEASURE. Kate Pearce certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention.

Antonia's Bargain by Kate Pearce

2007-12-26T06:31:00.000-08:00

Kate Pearce returns to a lush and sensual world where Gideon Harcourt will meet his match in an innocent young woman whose fear of intimacy intrigues the jaded connoisseur.

Lord Gideon Harcourt is an expert at all things sexual; he knows what is available and will try anything once, but not with women. After his young wife’s suicide, Gideon is fearful of forming an attachment to a woman so limits his sexual encounters to males. When he is introduced to a shy young man new to town, he sets out to show him the way of things. All too soon he discovers “Anthony” Maxwell is actually Antonia in disguise, and the intrigue begins.

Antonia Maxwell has lived a life watching the indignities her mother suffered in the marriage bed. She vows she will not suffer the same, so sets out to discover the true nature of men when they are not vying for a fortune. A fortune Antonia has and is willing to share as long as she need not share a marriage bed with her husband. She meets the handsome and charming Gideon Harcourt and strikes a bargain with him: show her the life of a young gentleman about town and she will let him try to seduce her, as long as she retains her virginity.

ANTONIA’S BARGAIN is not for the faint of heart; it is filled with frequent and varied sexual practices, explicit in word and deed. Gideon is an arrogant and confident expert on the sexual proclivities of men and women of Regency England. He is also a very vulnerable man beneath the public façade. What goes on behind closed doors is richly presented by author Kate Pearce through the eyes of an innocent woman who strains at the rules of conduct for women in her social set. Her introduction to the highly non-traditional sexual antics is further enhanced by the effect it has on our hero. He is growing more and more intrigued with this brave young woman and is falling deeper and deeper under her spell. The building of the relationship between two so equally matched characters is a grand journey as Gideon discovers Antonia’s fears of intimacy and she, in turn, heals the wounded parts of his soul. ANTONIA’S BARGAIN is a love story all about acceptance between two complex characters. The secondary cast “fleshes out” the story in a positive way, never detracting from the main storyline. Kate Pearce brings the Regency period to vivid life and makes readers privy to young men’s and women’s secret exploits. Make no mistake, this is not your tame Regency romance, ANTONIA’S BARGAIN is explicit in content and is not for those who like “one foot on the floor” so to speak.

A Bravo Christmas Reunion by Christine Rimmer

2007-12-26T06:25:00.000-08:00

The Bravo Family Ties series continues when Hayley Bravo comes face to face with the man she gave her heart to and walked out on. What better way to spend the day than with a story that is not so much about sex, but all about romance?

Hayley Bravo left Seattle and Marcus Reid when she discovered she was pregnant. Marcus warned her repeatedly that he would never marry again nor did he want children, so even though she loved him, Hayley left and returned home to Sacramento. When Marcus arrives on her doorstep at Christmas it is all she can do not to throw herself into his arms again. She still loves him and though he feels responsible for the child she will not marry him without love.

Marcus tried to forget Hayley, he really did; he worked out extra hours in the gym, dated the most beautiful and willing women, and burned the midnight oil at work. Nothing helped, so he found himself on her doorstep at Christmas time, just to check on her, mind you. When he gets a gander at her burgeoning stomach, he jumps to the conclusion she has moved on, until two and two finally click. When he reaches the correct assessment he proposes only to have her reject him, but this time there is a tiny baby that will work its magic on these two lonely souls. They are destined to be together as a family; maybe the Christmas season will help to bring them all together forever.

In true Christine Rimmer fashion, Marcus and Hayley will strike a chord in readers as their story unfolds slowly. Marcus has had a tough time of it with a bitter divorce and disillusion in the power of love. He feels he is incapable of love and doesn’t deserve to be loved in return. Though Hayley means something very special to him, it takes awhile for him to recognize that love is the emotion he is feeling. Hayley has grown up in foster homes and when she discovers she loves Marcus makes a bad decision by not telling him right away he is to be a father. Not a new storyline, to be sure, but Christine Rimmer gives the reader a fresh look at an old standard; Marcus and Hayley draw the reader to their characters and make them feel like a part of the family; encouraging us to help them on the road to the happily ever after they both so richly deserve. The personalities of the characters unfold to gradually reveal their fears and reservations, making them more human and relatable. A Bravo Christmas Reunion is a wonderful holiday romance I will revisit from time to time. What better way to spend the day than with a story that is not so much about sex, but all about romance?

The Daddy Dilemma

2007-12-26T06:21:00.001-08:00

By Karen Rose Smith

THE DADDY DILEMMA is a stirring novel of love and sacrifice. Author Karen Rose Smith captures the essence of love between a tragic young woman and a grief stricken man.

When Sara Hobart donated her eggs to help finance a bone marrow transplant for her mother, she thought she was making the right decision. And it was the right decision until an accident took Sara’s ability to have children away from her. When Sara discovers the father of her child is a widower living in Minnesota, she has a dilemma on her hands. Does she upset the father and son by coming forward, or does she go back to her lonely existence?

Nathan Barclay and his wife Colleen had two failed in vitro attempts before a donor gave the eggs they needed to finally conceive. When his wife and baby died in childbirth, Nathan has cosseted his surviving son, Kyle. Born at twenty-six weeks, he was a tiny boy and when he developed asthma, Nathan was even more protective. Were it not for his father’s interference, he would smother the child, he is so afraid of anything bad happening to him. Now along comes the lovely and tragic Sara Hobart claiming she only wants to meet the child then she will go away forever. How can he be sure that is all she wants? Why does she invoke feelings in him? How can he keep Colleen’s memory alive when Sara seems to occupy his thoughts?

THE DADDY DILEMMA will have you reaching for the tissues several times before the end of the story. Sara and Nathan are each wounded souls in their own way, tragic in their losses and yet warm and compassionate underneath the surface. The chemistry between the couple has to move past the anger stage of Nathan but once it does, it is unmistakable how these two individuals are drawn to each other. Kyle, too, is drawn to Sara in an indefinable way. She soothes something in the child and manages to capture my heart in the process. The obstacles the characters must overcome are realistic. The journey to falling in love is an emotional one but one well worth the trouble. For a good solid story about home and family, you can’t go wrong with THE DADDY DILEMMA by Karen Rose Smith.

A Soldier's Love

2007-12-26T06:16:00.000-08:00

By Lucinda K. Campbell

A Soldier’s Love is a touching romance of love and loss; of a bitter young man and a lonely young woman who find love in a time of war.

Ron Miller has returned to Georgetown to finish his History degree while remaining in the Army Reserves. He has been burned by love before and is wary of getting involved again but there is something about the quiet young woman who works in the college office that intrigues him.

Katie McNeill has worked in the office since graduating from the University of Maryland. Labeled a spinster at the age of 25, she is relentlessly pursued by an eighteen year old rich boy, Jimmy Garrett, though she has eyes for the quiet and handsome Lieutenant Miller.

Sunday December 7th will change all three of these individuals’ lives when they learn Pearl Harbor is bombed by the Japanese. Ron is reactivated after Christmas break, Jimmy joins the Army and their other roommate Billy is drafted. World War II will affect each and every one of these people in different ways.

I was immediately drawn to the quiet strength of Ron Miller and the desire to complete his education. Raised during the Depression, he is a responsible young man and a mentor to young Billy, his roommate, and some of the other students at Georgetown. I was saddened by the fact that he is bitter from past betrayals yet heartened he is getting over his hurts, even if he doesn’t realize it yet. Katie is attracted to the quiet man yet is aware of the rules against dating students. The unsettling attention of eighteen year old Jimmy is rather obsessive in nature and raises red flags for this reader. I was not surprised to see his actions escalate once he discovered Katie wasn’t interested in him as more than a friend. The vivid accounts of the character’s reaction to Pearl Harbor being bombed brought back memories of my predecessors’ involvement in the war. The poignant vignettes with Ron and Katie, with Ron and Billy, and with the Army buddies and wives interspersed throughout the story were realistically drawn and made the characters all the more relatable. If you are looking for a historical romance that is fresh and original, with characters and situations that come to life on the pages, you will surely not want to miss A Soldier’s Love by Lucinda K. Campbell. I, for one, will read it again.

Veterans: Nothing to Lose

2007-12-22T07:30:00.000-08:00

Veterans: Nothing to Lose is one man’s erotic journey to healing his internal scars.

Richard returns from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan a guilt ridden soldier. With his life in turmoil he certainly doesn’t need the erotically charged parties his neighbors have on a nightly basis. When he notices the couple does not actually participate but only observe, it makes him curious, but nothing more. The wars have taken a toll on his emotions; except guilt. When the lovely woman next door beckons to him, it is with ennui that he approaches.

Niki and Bryan Gauld have parties hoping to find a new partner to add to their relationship. Suffering a terrible loss in the past ahs made them apprehensive about giving their hearts again, but there is something about the silent neighbor who watches their hedonistic parties with boredom that intrigues them. Niki tries to beckon the neighbor to join them on several occasions without luck, but after a private show he finally complies. Will they be able to break through the walls he has around him in order to heal the man within? Can it be done with putting the control of their love play in his hands?

Richard is a wounded soul, shouldering a huge amount of guilt over things that happened during wartime. As a soldier he is expected to “buck up” and deal with it, but he isn’t dealing with it so well after all this time. His angst is relevant and is aptly portrayed by author, Mechele Armstrong. The overall premise is a good one and I became involved in discovering what, exactly, Richard felt guilty for. Niki and Bryan are adventurous individuals, but their wild lifestyle is only covering their own pain. Richard is drawn to the couple and vice versa and the attraction if readily apparent to this reader. The red hot love play is explicit and varied, as we are used to reading in Mechele Armstrong’s previous works. Unfortunately, the relationship just didn’t work for me; Niki and Bryan come across as selfish and spoiled while Richard seems to use the sexual exploits to mask his own pain. The chemistry just didn’t seem to show itself to me, I felt like Niki, Bryan or Richard could have been making love with any partner as their connection did not feel like a special one. For you, fellow reader, this may feel differently; Niki and Bryan may feel like close friends to you and their connection to Richard a loving and lasting one. Give this one a try, and see if you have a differing opinion; you may find a hidden treasure.

The Italian's Chosen Wife

2007-12-22T07:28:00.000-08:00

Alessandro is a man with a notorious past and Meghan, a woman with a few secrets of her own; Kate Hewitt presents readers with a wonderful debut story about the rocky journey toward a forever love.
The Italian’s Chosen Wife is a heartwarming debut for author, Kate Hewitt. Alessandro and Meghan will strike a chord with readers as they both have tragic pasts that resonate throughout the story. Meghan is a wonderfully independent heroine who is smart and funny and tragic in her own right. Alessandro is the quintessential arrogant alpha hero; dark and brooding, heartless and remote; until he stumbles upon Meghan. Meghan brings out feelings in this wounded soul that are foreign to the undisputed playboy. The “secrets” both keep hidden by mutual agreement provide an underlying tension to the story as readers wait for the revealing at any moment, all the while wondering if it will tear the couple apart or bring them closer together. The chemistry between Alessandro and Meghan is a living breathing force; sizzling and sparkling whenever the couple is together. The Italian’s Chosen Wife is a lovely way to while away an afternoon, but be prepared to have the tissues handy as Alessandro and Meghan’s love affair is a rocky journey to happily ever after.

The Christmas Date

2007-12-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

Tyler Nichols is a world traveling photojournalist. When his sister convinced him to buy a house he thought she was nuts, but his feelings begin changing as he gets to know his neighbor, Kate Merrill. Once, all he thought about was the next big adventure but once he is on assignment again he finds he can’t wait to get back home to Kate.

She is a hard working paralegal pursuing her law degree and she definitely doesn’t have time for a good looking wanderer. She had her fill of that with her father and isn’t about to get tangled up with another handsome man. But Tyler has her feeling things and struggling with her inner demons to make a commitment after all.

Kate and Tyler are such lovely people; I couldn’t help but become attached to them both. Tyler with his wandering ways is felled by a pessimistic young woman despite having been pursued by countless more glamorous women. Kate is afraid to trust and though she finds herself caring for Tyler, she is leery of believing his attraction is real. Her past is an obstacle they both deal with in a very realistic fashion, and his devotion to showing her how much she means to him is romantic. The chemistry is unmistakable and I found myself caring very much about this mismatched pair, like they were close friends. The Christmas Date is a wonderful holiday story to while away a winter evening.

The Photograph

2007-12-22T07:25:00.000-08:00

What if your true love was in a photograph? What if that photograph held a part of him or her, just waiting for the right person to come along? Author, Regan Taylor tells a poignant tale of two lonely people who are destined to be together in The Photograph.
Carrie is a romantic at heart, getting caught up in the romances she reads. She often dreams of a fantasy lover, one who surely does not exist. He is too perfect, too charming, too caring; those do not describe any of the men she has met. Treasures Antique Store and its proprietor are about to blow Carrie’s preconceived notions to bits.
After wishing on a falling star in 1850, Black Eagle is thrust into a mysterious time and place to find the one woman who is his destined love. Who could have predicted having his picture taken would have such lasting consequences?
The Photograph captures the essence of two passionate lovers who are fated to be together despite time or place. A story full of emotional highs and lows, Regan Taylor pens a character driven romance that will long live in reader’s memories. Black Eagle is an alpha hero many women would love to call their own; he wishes on a falling star in 1850 for a wife and suddenly wakes up beside his dream woman in 2007. His fierce protection of Carrie and his genuine goodness make for intensely romantic episodes. Carrie’s fears of losing Black Eagle to his time and her internal struggle to deny the feelings she has for him are realistically presented and her genuine fear of her ex-boyfriend is credible. The sensual love scenes emphasize the genuine love and affection between Black Eagle and Carrie and readers will find themselves cheering them on to a “happily ever after”. Their passionate response to each other leaves no doubt they are fated to be together forever. Carrie’s cat has an integral part in the storyline and brings a bit of humor and whimsy to The Photograph; his very vocal dialogue is charming and adds that extra something to make this a special love story. The secondary cast which includes Carrie’s room mate and her boyfriend are loyal supporters of the couple and feel like friends to the reader as well. A strong element of danger throughout adds additional drama and kept this reader on the edge of my seat. Follow along as two very lonely people find eternal love and trust across the boundaries of time; you will not be disappointed.

Heal My Hurting Heart

2007-12-22T07:24:00.001-08:00

Fleeing from a murdering stepfather who demands she marry him, Gina Walker. In a time when women have few rights she is afraid her stepfather can make her marry him. Gathering what little she has, Gina flees into the night only to have an accident and lose her memory. When she wakes to the sight of a handsome rancher and no memory things look pretty grim. When her memory does slowly return Gina is afraid to come forward, believing Luke will send her back to her stepfather. It will take things going from bad to worse before life gets better for Gina.

Luke Adams is a bitter man; used and abused by women in the past he has no trust in him. When he comes upon an injured young woman on his mountain he has no choice but to take her in but it isn’t happy about it. There is something about this sad young woman that calls to him making him want to believe in her goodness. Ever the gentleman, when Luke compromises Gina he marries her but will the trust and love they are building on be compromised when he learns the truth? When danger comes to the door, will he be able to keep the woman he has come to love safe?

Heal My Hurting Heart blends just the right combination of romance and mystery in this charming story that is sure to strengthen your faith in love healing all wounds. Author, Allison Knight brings two wounded individuals together when they each need to find love the most. The characters are realistic and full of human flaws, likable yet frustrating in their secrets and insecurities. Luke is an outstanding hero who is afraid to trust after being used so much in the past. His underlying core of chivalry refuses to let him abandon the woman he rescues. Their slow building to trust and love is realistic and utterly captivating; it is like watching the sun come out after a rain storm. Gina is a woman many will identify with; trapped in an impossible situation she escapes as soon as she is able. She has courage that is admirable and yet her repeated lack of confidence in Luke became a little tedious at times. The chemistry is unmistakable between the pair and resonates whenever they share a scene. The element of danger is an underlying mystery throughout and has a surprise climax I never expected. If you are looking for a historical romance that contains complex characters, danger and passion you will not be disappointed with Heal My Hurting Heart by Allison Knight.

Breaking The Rules

2007-12-22T07:21:00.000-08:00

Margo Allen bought a house in Wainwright Place, a Victorian home that she intends to paint Colony Blue. Too bad there is a covenant against painting her house the same color as a neighbor’s. Gorgeous Brit Hunter is determined to make her change her mind about Colony Blue. He also wants to get up close and personal with the curvy brunette. It will be a grand adventure for two wary individuals as they stumble along the way to falling in love.

Brit and Margo are endearing characters; I warmed to them both immediately. They are realistically portrayed with very human flaws and foibles, making them feel like friends. The attraction is instantaneous, as evidenced by Margo’s inability to think of nothing but taking Brit’s clothes off during their first argument. Brit is trying his best to be an upstanding leader in the community yet is sidetracked by his attraction to Margo. The love scenes are explosive yet touched with romantic elements. Breaking the Rules is a fun and spicy way to spend an afternoon, but be aware that this story is not for the faint of heart; the sexual encounters are frequent and explicit. If you like a slow progression through courtship to love you may want to choose something else, but if you want a fun and very spicy love story, Breaking the Rules by Summer Jordan may be right up your alley.

A Gentle Rain

2007-12-22T07:20:00.001-08:00

A Gentle Rain by Deborah Smith is a compelling story of love and compassion, of heartache and joy, of friends and family coming in all shapes and sizes.

A Gentle Rain is a memorable story that will find a permanent place in your library; you will want to read Kara and Ben’s story again and again. Profoundly enchanting, thought provoking and compassionate only begin to describe my thoughts after reading this wonderful character driven story from a master storyteller. The entire cast of characters will worm their way right into your heart and not let go for a good long time. The lighthearted moments surrounding the animals and cast adds a fun and offbeat twist to the storyline while the very real cruelties of society bring home to the reader the obstacles faced every day by special needs individuals. If you are searching for a good solid read this year you cannot let A Gentle Rain sit in your TBR. It would be a shame to miss such a heartwarming story of love and family coming in all shapes and sizes. Bravo, Ms. Smith; another jewel in the crown of a master at her craft.

To Be Read Rooms, you asked for it!

2007-12-14T06:05:00.000-08:00

Here are the sad pictures of my TBR "rooms".

I find I get so busy reviewing books that I seldom have time to read the books I have purchased myself.

Holiday Music

2007-12-14T06:02:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite holiday videos. Trans Siberian Orchestra stays in my CD player all year long.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeriJcu1eJM&feature=related

Brothers of the Absinthe Club, Book 3: In a Reckless Moment by Emma Wildes

2007-12-09T14:56:00.000-08:00

Ross Benson, Viscount Winterton, is recently returned from Africa. He is a jaded rake of a man, and the object of many women’s fantasies. He and Timothy Rollins are arriving back at Ivydale Manor, drunk, when they wake young Cassandra, Timothy’s sister, who helps both men to bed. When she ends up in bed with Ross, her lifetime crush, it will have repercussions none of them counted on.

Ross is handsome, sought after and has never had an inclination toward innocent young women. For some unfathomable reason, Cassandra tempts him like no woman has before. When he seduces her on a night of drunken stupor, he has no choice but to marry the alluring Cassandra.

In a Reckless Moment is a charming story of opposites attracting. Ross and Cassandra burn up the pages as their explosive chemistry is the foundation for building a marriage from convenience to a forever love. Cassandra is a woman many will appreciate for her independence, her common sense and her genuine love for Ross and her family. She is warm and witty, charming and beautiful. With not a vain bone in her body, she endeared herself to me even further. Ross, on the other hand, is a charming and handsome rogue; he is jaded and spoiled until Cassandra brings him down a few pegs. He is clueless about love and it is with baited breath that this reader watched as he fell further under Cassandra’s spell each day. With the underlying mystery of Ross’s past to keep this reader guessing, I was intrigued by the storyline, both the journey to falling in love and the mystery of threats to the couple’s safety. I thoroughly enjoyed Emma Wildes’ In a Reckless Moment and I intend to purchase all of the previous titles.

Hardwind by Charlotte Boyette-Compo

2007-12-09T14:53:00.000-08:00

Dáire Cronin was almost killed on his last mission, thinking about the fight he had with his lover, Star Kiernan. He works for a Top-Secret government agency and Star is fed up with all of the secrecy and long absences. She is moving on, but Dáire can’t seem to let her go. She is the only woman for him, will always be the only one for him.

Dáire’s boss, Tyndall Gentry owns him. She dominates every aspect of his life, but she has failed to make him want her like he wants Star. She is a dangerous foe, more so than Dáire and Star thought possible.

Hardwind is an edgy and fast moving erotic thriller. I was captivated by the relationship between Dáire and Star. They had sexual chemistry that leapt off the pages, and the reader warning was very appropriate; sexually explicit with steamy love scenes. With a vividly presented emotional conflict between Dáire, Star, and Tyndall there was no doubt in my mind this would be a rocky journey for two people who were meant to be together. Together, Dáire and Star are a formidable force to be reckoned with. Tyndall is a truly obsessed and nasty individual while Daniel Jackson, Dáire’s friend and partner, is a charming one. I thoroughly enjoyed the fast paced storyline, the brilliant characterization, and unique twist to an old scenario. Charlotte Boyett-Compo is a gifted writer to watch. Her storylines drawn the reader right into the midst of the conflict and doesn’t let them go until the dramatic conclusion.