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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
Kenda Montgomery has commented on (33) products
In Her Bed
by
Debora Macgillivray
Kenda Montgomery
, June 02, 2007
Ms. MacGillivray?s breathtaking debut, A Restless Knight, took the romance shelves by storm, captivating historical romance fans everywhere. What began in book one of the Dragons of Challon series carries on in fine tradition in this second installment. With Longshanks securing a deadly grip on the throat of Scotland, can the brave family of knights continue to find a place amongst the precarious hills and fey, mythical lore? Aithinne Ogilvie is in dire need of a man. Tasking her brothers with the duty of securing her one, she?s still surprised at the glorious man she finds in her bed. Unwilling to be any man?s pawn, she will do what is necessary to secure the safety of her lands and the people depending on her. For seven nights of the waxing moon, she must lie with him and get with child. Only then will she be ale to deflect the rampaging fury that is the English as well as increasing attention from unwanted suitors. When she learns the man?s identity though, she knows he can never love her, for she knows his heart already belongs to another. Damien St. Giles grows weary of lusting after a woman who will never be his. Though he is happy for his cousin, Damien?s dreams tell him the woman his cousin is to marry should be his own. Wallowing in misery, and in his cups, he is ill prepared to fend off the good-natured cajoling of three mysterious lads. When he awakens, he finds himself chained to a bed. What ensues is the most wondrous experience he?s ever had with a woman, a woman he sees the next day looks shockingly like the woman of his dreams. As their encounters escalate, he begins to realize he just might have found his true place. Can he convince her that he will do anything to see her protected and will his place by her side be enough to ensure that protection? Longshanks is ever a cruel and crafty ruler and one can never know exactly how he will proceed. Thrust together at the pinnacle of a major turning point in Scottish history, Aithinne and Damien have their work cut out for them in terms of romance. From the first few chapters though, the flames do not merely spark, they roar with an earthy sensuality. It ignites their relationship to fiery hot and sets an ever-yearning pace between the two. This story intermingles with that of its predecessor, A Restless Knight and we get the same basic span of days, but from a different point of view?Aithinne?s and Damien?s. The author does it again; having no trouble in crafting characters we can see in our minds and care about in our hearts. The details are tucked in at just the right intervals, leaving the reader in no doubt of Scotland?s magic and hard won history. It?s a definite keeper, one I loved as much as the first. Looking forward to many more such historicals from this author!
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Secrets and Sacrifices
by
Diane M. Wylie
Kenda Montgomery
, April 23, 2007
Charlotte “Charlie” Garret is a woman torn, not only by the Civil War, which already tears North from South, but also by her husband’s involvement. Determined to stand by his side, she does the unthinkable and joins the Confederate Army disguised as a young man. Simply being close to her husband, Joshua, even in the rough circumstances the soldiers engage in, gives her heart some peace. When her talents as a sharpshooter are honed, she earns herself a true place in the Twenty-Fifth Virginia infantry. Soon, despite having made friends amongst her fellow soldiers, Charlie finds herself more alone than she could possibly have imagined. When a new opportunity comes along to help those of the South in need, she finds a new purpose in her life, a true calling. Captain Daniel Reid is a dedicated surgeon for the Confederacy, while born and raised in the North. Firmly believing in his duty to save lives, the war nonetheless takes its toll. No matter how hard or long he toils, there will always be more soldiers that need help. When the worst possible thing happens for a man in his position, he will take on a desperate mission for the South that soldiers often do not return from. And when he meets little Charlie Garret, he discovers a secret that carries his spirit on through the tormenting next few years. Secrets and Sacrifices brings not only the horrors of the most infamous U.S. war to light in a passionate and moving way, it brings forth a basic human ideal as well—that in time, we will survive and live to love again one day. Thanks to meeting one another amidst terrible strife, Charlie and Daniel give each other the hope that roots this ideal. Charlie is a woman that endures through action and compassion. Not one to sit idle, she takes on a dangerous mission not once, but twice throughout the war, bringing freedom to many. Daniel is the consummate soldier, dedicated to his beliefs and they serve him well as he takes it upon himself to gain much needed supplies for his men. Ultimately, Charlie and Daniel’s goals are to reunite, and it’s a rare, passionate love that they experience at intervals throughout the book. Author Wylie does a superb job of drawing on the emotions and engaging the reader through action and a well-drawn plot through history. Well done!
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A Wish in Time
by
Laurel Bradley
Kenda Montgomery
, April 23, 2007
Kirkinwall, Scotland, 1718. Magda McClellan is eight months pregnant with her and Davy’s first child and she couldn’t be happier with her life. When Auld Annie, an obscure and wise woman, is accused of witchcraft, Maggie cannot turn away and helps her. Impressed with the young woman’s generous heart, Annie offers to grant a wish in return. Being that she is happy, Maggie refuses. But when strange dreams haunt her, she cannot help but worry that Annie may indeed have some power over her. New York, New York, 2002. Maggie McDonald and her husband, David, are in desperate want of a child. When Maggie goes in for a procedure, they meet a strange nurse that promises them a baby, if it is there wish. Maggie finds herself quite out of element when she awakens to find herself pregnant…and not in New York anymore. Who is the large man that calls her Magda, and more importantly, where is Magda? Trapped in eighteenth century Scotland, she will have to figure out how to switch her and Magda back before it’s too late. Meanwhile, Magda must learn to deal with the hustle and bustle of the twenty-first century and the heavy heart that comes along with her. Both desperately search for answers, to their dilemma and their confused hearts. A Wish in Time takes one of the most entertaining genres of romance, the time travel, and combines it with a unique plot to produce a truly moving and thought provoking story. It’s the typical “we’re not in Kansas” feel for both women, but how they handle their individual dilemmas is what’s interesting. Maggie takes on the then primitive livelihood of Scotland with spirit and determination as she puzzles out the mystery of how she came to be there. Magda, in many ways, has much more to overcome, being brought up with an entirely different set of ideals when it comes to hearth and home. Both women will discover new sides to themselves that they never knew and learn again what is most important in their lives. I sniffled many a time over this one and loved the movement between the two time periods. The author’s style changes subtly for each woman’s circumstances, stark and clean for the poor Magda, then bold and fiery for Maggie, caught as she is in that tempestuous time period. It brought to mind one of my favorite authors and I dare say other fans of Barbara Delinsky will love this wonderful tale of love that spans centuries.
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Fearless
by
Andrea Wilder
Kenda Montgomery
, April 23, 2007
King Edward has come to Ireland to dominate and Kieran MacAuley and his kinsmen will not stand for it. Though they love their families, keeping their beloved Ireland safe must be foremost at the moment. On a bloody battlefield, the strong chieftain’s life hangs in the balance. Praying only that his men’s souls find their way to heaven, he’s certain he cannot turn death away this time. When a brave lass haunts the fallen men, he’s certain all he needs is a kiss from her to die in peace. Brynna Ryan mourns the loss of the brave men of Ireland. When she encounters the legendary Kieran, she calls upon her fey roots to save his life. As he is already favored by the faery Queen of Meath, it’s a task well seen too. Brynna nurses the handsome fighter back to health and in the solitude of the forest, they discover there’s more to life than the next battle, be it for Ireland or on a more personal level. But when Kieran asks more of Brynna than she is willing to give, he’ll have to overcome the tricky veil that is fey magic if he truly wants to be with her. Brynna will do all in her power to keep him safe, and if it means keeping them apart due to her past, so be it. Love has a way of unfolding the veil though and soon even the world of faery will learn that it cannot hold love back. Fearless is a stellar addition to the romance shelves and as Ms. Wilder’s debut, quite impressive. The story draws one in from the very first paragraph with action and sets the tone before the second page with romance and fey intrigue. The characters are well written and we see a wonderful progression of the hero and heroine throughout the story. Kieran is a strong man, without being overpowering and he finds his perfect mate in the kind and just Brynna. There are plenty of emotional wringers, and therefore plenty of opportunities to cry for and cheer the two on. From the moment it starts, the pace is wonderful and never slows down or meanders. The addition of the fey elements add a measure of uncertainty, and left me to wonder at times if all would indeed be well for the main characters by book’s end. A great way to spend a lazy weekend—or one long, breathless night. Congrats to author Wilder for her wonderful first contribution to the world of romance!
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Naughty Paris
by
Jina Bacarr
Kenda Montgomery
, April 23, 2007
Autumn Maguire is painting Paris red. Well, maybe more a tad blue, since her fiancé jilted her and she’s used her honeymoon tickets to get there. Determined to have a good time, she answers an ad for an artist’s model and discovers how awakening for the spirit it can be to pose nude, even if the artist is less than inspiring. While exploring his studio though, she discovers the self-portrait of a long dead artist and it awakens in her the passion she thought she lacked. When the clothes come off and a little wicked black magic folds in, Autumn finds herself in a most unusual situation. It’s a different Paris she awakens to—the darker, naughtier side. Cue the devilish grin. In nineteenth century Paris, Paul Borquet, a most scandalous artist at the time, discovers a wondrous Titian-haired beauty in his studio. Never so assured of a masterpiece in his life, he must paint her. And never having found so beautiful and intriguing a woman, he entertains a riveting lust for her as well. When the overwhelming influences of the sensual culture confound her, Autumn flees and entrances the sexy Paul in her wake. Concerned for her safety, he pursues. When she catches the eye of a notorious lord, it will be all he can do to assure she comes to no harm in the unfamiliar world that is the baser side of Paris. No more than the first two chapters in, I felt the allure of Ms. Bacarr’s Paris, the rich language and erotic imagery she evokes too powerful to resist. If this were chocolate, it would be whatever the richest, most decadent piece you’ve ever consumed is. And that, in a nutshell, is what this book is—decadent. From the studios of the famous artists to the opening days of the Moulin Rouge, Naughty Paris embodies the sexual power that the city thrived on at one time. Autumn discovers a part of herself that she never knew existed and Paul recovers a piece of himself that he’d begun to lose amongst the seedy and disreputable back streets. Bacarr’s use of the paranormal element of time travel was cleverly done and the ill will surrounding Autumn and Paul because of it sent chills down my spine. Paul is a sigh-worthy hero, strong and passionate, and certainly ranks in my top ten most memorable. This was a late-night binge reading pleasure that I’ve since picked up more than once. Glad to see this author keeping me on my reading toes!
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For A Few Demons More Rachel Morgan 05
by
Kim Harrison
Kenda Montgomery
, March 30, 2007
In many ways, Rachel Morgan’s problems come full circle in this fifth installment of the Hallows series. With enemies drawing closer than they ever have before, her palette of choices is fast becoming slim to none. In one power play after the next, Rachel’s about to fall behind enemy lines, instead of the one step ahead we’ve been seeing. It’s back to Cincinnati after her desperate attempt to save her pixie partner’s son and her ex-boyfriend, Nick. Rachel harbors a rather nasty curse trapped in a bone prison, the focus, which threatens to twist the realities of Weres and vampires alike, both of wom squabble over it like children. With Trent vying for it, someone killing for it and our favorite demon Al lusting after it, Rachel once again has to find a way to undo another problem forced upon her. As the delicate balance between her and Ivy begins to come to a roiling boil, it’s all the earth witch can do to stay this side of good, acceptable magic. With her special blood and desire to help others though, it’s near impossible for her to deflect the trouble that comes looking for her with a vengeance. Unable to unload the focus on just anyone, she’ll have to decide who’s the best choice…and none of them are looking particularly stellar. The first of Harrison’s series to be offered in hardback, it’s a worthy installment for it, tipping the scales even further towards excellent. For a Few Demons More wraps up some of the problems that Rachel has been having over the course of the other books while of course unraveling others even further. Trent comes back into play and it’s a totally different side of him than readers have read before. Ceri, the powerful ex-demon familiar, shows Rachel just how much she respects her and Rachel’s pack mate David takes on a major role. The demon Newt is back and we get some interesting information and insights into that character too, though whether they help or hinder the outlook on Newt is the reader’s choice. Ivy’s dilemma with Piscary is excruciatingly dealt with and it was a struggle at certain points to get past the powerful emotions Harrison has written surrounding Ivy and Rachel. As always, Harrison manages to insert a shocking twist, one I never saw coming, involving Rachel and another of her closest friends. For a Few Demons More is inundated with its fair share of pain, angst and utter despair and readers most certainly may feel closer to Rachel than ever before because of it. It’s not without it’s glimmer of hope though and some very interesting new characters are introduced that I hope will continue to make appearances in the next book, most notably a mysterious organization of demon practitioners and Dr. Ford Miller, a psychiatrist for the FIB (Federal Inderlander Bureau, the human division to deal with Inderlanders). In the end, as much as Rachel has had to deal with, she’s never appeared stronger to me. As always, the once-a-year release of Harrison’s Hallows series just can’t come fast enough and I only hope that there will be many, many more to come.
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For a Few Demons More
by
Kim Harrison
Kenda Montgomery
, March 30, 2007
In many ways, Rachel Morgan’s problems come full circle in this fifth installment of the Hallows series. With enemies drawing closer than they ever have before, her palette of choices is fast becoming slim to none. In one power play after the next, Rachel’s about to fall behind enemy lines, instead of the one step ahead we’ve been seeing. It’s back to Cincinnati after her desperate attempt to save her pixie partner’s son and her ex-boyfriend, Nick. Rachel harbors a rather nasty curse trapped in a bone prison, the focus, which threatens to twist the realities of Weres and vampires alike, both of wom squabble over it like children. With Trent vying for it, someone killing for it and our favorite demon Al lusting after it, Rachel once again has to find a way to undo another problem forced upon her. As the delicate balance between her and Ivy begins to come to a roiling boil, it’s all the earth witch can do to stay this side of good, acceptable magic. With her special blood and desire to help others though, it’s near impossible for her to deflect the trouble that comes looking for her with a vengeance. Unable to unload the focus on just anyone, she’ll have to decide who’s the best choice…and none of them are looking particularly stellar. The first of Harrison’s series to be offered in hardback, it’s a worthy installment for it, tipping the scales even further towards excellent. For a Few Demons More wraps up some of the problems that Rachel has been having over the course of the other books while of course unraveling others even further. Trent comes back into play and it’s a totally different side of him than readers have read before. Ceri, the powerful ex-demon familiar, shows Rachel just how much she respects her and Rachel’s pack mate David takes on a major role. The demon Newt is back and we get some interesting information and insights into that character too, though whether they help or hinder the outlook on Newt is the reader’s choice. Ivy’s dilemma with Piscary is excruciatingly dealt with and it was a struggle at certain points to get past the powerful emotions Harrison has written surrounding Ivy and Rachel. As always, Harrison manages to insert a shocking twist, one I never saw coming, involving Rachel and another of her closest friends. For a Few Demons More is inundated with its fair share of pain, angst and utter despair and readers most certainly may feel closer to Rachel than ever before because of it. It’s not without it’s glimmer of hope though and some very interesting new characters are introduced that I hope will continue to make appearances in the next book, most notably a mysterious organization of demon practitioners and Dr. Ford Miller, a psychiatrist for the FIB (Federal Inderlander Bureau, the human division to deal with Inderlanders). In the end, as much as Rachel has had to deal with, she’s never appeared stronger to me. As always, the once-a-year release of Harrison’s Hallows series just can’t come fast enough and I only hope that there will be many, many more to come.
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Visions Of Heat Psy Changelings 02
by
Nalini Singh
Kenda Montgomery
, March 30, 2007
Nalini Singh's fresh take on the world of paranormal is as gripping as ever, with strong action and a cast of interesting characters. Visions of Heat continues somewhat the original plot of the first book, Slave to Sensation. The Psy are a race known for their cold aloof facades and the deadly minds they cloak beneath. Thanks to a rigid race determined to conceal their slightest imperfections, killers are born, and it's up to the changelings once again to protect not only their own but the Psy as well. Faith Nightstar is the embodiement of a sheltered Psy. As an F-Psy able to predict the future, her talents are coveted by her family. Cocooned against the outside world, she's tucked away in her own compound, where she can predict safe things, things that make the PsyClan Nightstar very wealthy. When dark, disturbing visions begin to plague her at any given time, and a particular murder cuts too close to home, she knows she cannot ignore them...no matter how fragile her mind might be. Drawn to the enigmatic and unusual Psy, Changeling Vaughn D'Angelo uses his abilities as a jaguar to encroach on Faith's territory. He must tread carefully, for too much contact with the delicate Psy could send her senses into overload. He's determined to make her feel though and it's going to be on his terms. He sees strength in Faith and that's what he plans to draw forth in her, till she can handle exactly what he wants to give her. When visions of the killer cut too close to home, and the Psy come for her too, Vaughn will be there to catch Faith and dispense the remorseless justice changelings are known so well for. Vaughn's story was one I greatly looked forward to and came out pretty pleased with. An aloof character in the first book, it was interesting to read exactly what made up this single jaguar member of the DarkRiver leopards. As a sentinel for his adoptive clan, he's fierce, loyal and dangerously cunning. When he sets these talented sights on Faith it's an instant animal attraction that roars to the surface, ready to claim the confounding woman. Faith, knows her boundaries, and while she thinks there's no place for her in Vaughn's world, she proves herself to be invaluable to him and it's not for the cold reasons her Psyclan wants her. Their interactions make this installment worth the read. While the villain this time didn't stand out the way the previous book's baddy did, I found myself not minding in the least by book's end. Ms. Singh is a master at dishing up the details at just the right intervals, allowing her plots and subplots to flow beautifully amongst one another. Stay tuned for more from this fascination new world. Next up is Caressed by Ice, this time starring a Psy member as the hero. It releases September 4, 2007.
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Parallel Seduction
by
Deidre Knight
Kenda Montgomery
, March 21, 2007
Deidre Knightâs love for her characters shines through in this third book of what is now entitled the Midnight Warriors series. A quick overview: Due to genetic experimenting, two alien races are pitted against one another in a desperate bid to save lives. Unfortunately, it is at the cost of Refarian lives and any other species capable of supporting the energy forms of their one-time allies, the Antousians. Now Earth is slowly awakening to an unknown presence and the Refarians are determined that humankind will not suffer the same fate they did. Can these midnight warriors deflect the escalating dangers before itâs too late? Hope Harper faces many challenges, most notably those on the physical plain. More recently, her heart begins just as precarious a journey. As an FBI translator, her work has brought her in direct contact with the alien hybrid, Scott Dillon. Finally, her life has a purpose and sheâs not about to let the gruff, sexy and insecure lieutenant use her near-blindness as an excuse to keep her out of the action. Something about the man draws her like no other and just when sheâs beginning to rough out the feelings, along comes a mysterious time traveler, Jake Tierny. Visions that feel like memories show Hope that both men will be very important in her life and she is both dismayed and intrigued to find Jake equally as attractive as Scott. Jake is clearly here for a purpose and when he sets out to complete his mission, Hope becomes further embroiled in a race to save not only the people of Earth, but the men she loves as well. Who will she chooseâDillon, whose personal war threatens their happiness or Jake, whose time on this current Earth is precarious at best? This installment picks right up where Parallel Heat left off and itâs a wham bam rocking first chapter start that sets the speed for the rest of the book. Dismayed as this reader was to have two men vying equally for Hopeâs affections, I was in turn absolutely delighted to discover the clever twist Ms. Knight invents involving the three. Hopeâs limitations do not define her, and though she has the understandable down moments, sheâs a true heroine, one of fire, clever personality and a heart that just wonât quit. Taken in that light, itâs really no wonder both Scott and Jake pine for her. Scott was a favorite secondary character from the first two books and his story is probably the most prolific in terms of hero character development. Finally we are treated to his inner musings and what makes those insecurities tick. I loved him all the more for them. Jake, whom I originally thought of as âthe interloperâ was one that packed an amazing emotional punch by the end of Seduction. Characters from the other novels do figure in, most notably the Refarian King and Queen, Jared and Kelsey, and their story is nicely rounded out. Thank goodness weâre in for more Midnight WarriorsâParallel Desire is set for release December 4, 2007 and it canât come fast enough for me!
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Unexpected Pleasure
by
Candace Camp
Kenda Montgomery
, February 28, 2007
Megan Mulcahey and her family are on a vital mission--to root out and denounce a killer. Traveling from New York to London, Megan is sure her brother's murderer is none other than Theo Moreland, the Marquess of Raine, who accompanied her brother several years prior on an expedition to South America. With only a letter from another present at the time of her brother's demise, she must seek out more information in order to convict a lord in good standing with the Ton. The perfect opportunity arises when she takes on the role of tutor for his youngest siblings. Soon, much to her chagrin, she is enmeshed in the Mad Moreland's' household and under the very watchful eye of Theo. Too, she grows weary of deceiving people who seem genuinely kind, even if they are a tad unusual. With the danger of them discovering her lurking around every corner and strange occurrences surrounding her novice detecting project, Megan employs all her skills as a journalist to get to the bottom of this long neglected mystery. Home for the first time in ages and tired of constant travel, Theo is more than surprised when the urge to go abroad does not surface again. He's certain it has something to do with his youngest brothers' new tutor, a young woman who is clearly not a teacher in the traditional sense. Something besides her dazzling beauty trips his alarms and soon it's all he can do to keep up with her snooping and obvious deceit. Before he condemns her though, he's willing to give her the benefit of the doubt for clearly she is in danger. Someone wants to silence the young lady before she's loosened her secrets and Theo steps in to do all he can to protect her, despite some surprising discoveries. Positives about this historical romance are pretty much all having to do with research and plot. I was delighted to discover it touched on one of my most favorite civilizations in history, the Inca. I fair drank up the author's paragraphs delving into their history and culture and could easily picture ancient weapons and décor, rituals and the people of that long extinct tribe. The characters throughout though failed to grasp my attention. Theo and Megan's relationship, while enjoyable at times, lacked a good reason for coming to fruition. The mystery of her brother's murder was cleverly rounded out, with a good twist at the end, but wasn't strong enough to carry all the surprisingly large cast of average characters through. I was rather surprised that Megan's efforts were not more concealed and it was very obvious at times where the story was going in terms of her involvement. The writing was choppy at times too, and I kept stopping on words that were often unnecessary, cluttering instead of helpful. This is not the first Candace Camp title I've read and would certainly still recommend her work based on past reads, despite this one's frustrating lack of character development. Two stars goes to the interesting tidbits of Inca lore and a plot that still managed to pick up the pace and surprise me in the end. Reviewed for The Mystic Castle
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Blood Moon
by
Dawn Thompson
Kenda Montgomery
, February 28, 2007
The power of the moon has long been a fascinating addition to romantic settings and author Thompson takes her talent with words and molds these powers into a clever tale fraught with danger, suspense and the burning question that will soon race through your mind as it did mine: Will good really triumph over evil in this instance, and at what cost? Blood Moon is a historical novel bursting with action, well-developed characters and a twist on vampires that is refreshing and haunting. Cumberland, England, 1811. The second son of an earl, Jon Hyde-White is prepared to take on the role of vicar and settle down with the woman of his dreams, Cassandra Thorpe. A cruel, twisted fate is their bedeviling companion though when an evil entity focuses all his malice on them. Bitten and slowly descending into the madness that rides their attacker, Jon and Cassandra struggle to understand the horrors that plague them as well as the ones that await them. Sebastian, the creature that wants them for his slaves, will stop at nothing to complete what he's begun. As they flee England in search of answers, their desperate quest takes them to Moldovia, amongst the superstitious folk of the Carpathian Mountains. When the help they hoped for is flung back in their faces, what chance do they stand against a centuries old evil? Jon is determined though to right the wrongs done by Sebastian and in turn learns more than the Church could have ever prepared him for. Together, when he and Cassandra meet another like them, they will discover new and possibly more fulfilling ways to dispense divine justice. The story springs immediately into action. It carries throughout on a relentless ride readers will want to stay up with until finished and be held breathless at each grim encounter had by Jon and Cassandra. Their development as the story progresses is gripping and the situation unique in that they are completely unaware of what to expect with their new powers. Love is a common binder in their actions, as they both remain steadfast and true to their feelings for one another. Vampire myths take on a profound role in this tale as Thompson breaths fresh life into them, molding what we've come to "know" about vampires into a new, even more uncertain realm of fantasy and danger. Adding in a well-rounded secondary character, Milosh, and Blood Moon becomes fully established as a rich, engrossing vampire tale. Stay tuned for the next installment, "The Brotherhood", set for release in September, 2007. Author Thompson continues an amazing journey of stellar writing involving multiple intriguing settings and characters that draw me in a leave me in dire straights for her next book every time. Be sure to check out her previous titles "The Waterlord", "The Ravencliff Bride" and "The Falcon's Bride".
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Poison Study
by
Maria V Snyder
Kenda Montgomery
, February 28, 2007
Yelena has committed the ultimate sin and for that, she has been sentenced to die by hanging. Yet when she faces the man whom will send her to the noose, she receives an offer instead to live. Granted, there are catches, first and foremost the duty of food taster. Assassination by poison is ever a favored way to strike at the Commander and as the next prisoner to be executed, and as they need to fill the position, Yelena is next in line for the job. Thinking escape is surely in her future, she takes on the dangerous new duty. Her new handler though, Valek, has many tricks up is sleeve and soon Yelena finds it's not as easy to escape as she thought. The castle walls of the former King of Ixia hold secrets and dangers, and they all seem focused on the newest member to the Commander's staff. As Yelena begins and perfects her new poison detecting skills, she'll still have to deal with a general that wants her dead, the stigma of a murderer and strange powers that, while having manifested slowly long ago, are now to the point of no return--she must learn to control them or she'll be in even more trouble than when she faced the noose. When a conspiracy against the Commander comes to light, Yelena will come face to face once more with the demons that drove her to kill. The question is; will this stoic poison detector be able to triumph over them again? Yelena's story is a first person tale, told entirely from her perspective and it was a wise choice for Snyder. A young woman, one of immense promise and obvious talent, readers can only be drawn to the reasons for the choices she's made. From the moment she's given a life in exchange for another kind of prison, Yelena does not look back. After all she'd been through up till that point, she still possesses a strength many of us can only hope to have. She' smart, a little ruthless in her own right and capable of taking care of herself--to a point. When she needs help too, especially from Valek, she's not afraid to accept it. Ixia is an interesting country, which houses all sorts of traits from Medieval village life to a more modern society as well. It's one in which readers can easily identify with and understand, yet it carries its own weight in being a made-up, new "world". Excellent visuals, but not an overload of them, carry throughout with Yelena on her strange and gripping journey as she becomes embroiled, and finally center stage persona, in a race to save a country she's come to love in spite of its unforgiving nature. The general gunning for Yelena is a chilling addition and an excellent villain. Valek is an impossible to look away from character and one can only hope he makes plenty of appearances in the sequel, "Magic Study", already available in hardback. As debut novels go, this one sets an amazingly strong example of what good, solid fantasy fiction can be like.
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My Favorite Earthling
by
Susan Grant
Kenda Montgomery
, February 28, 2007
Another disaster averted, Earth can once again rest easy...or can they? Though an alien invasion has in fact been averted, now's not the time for the big sigh of relief. On eggshells, the world watches in anxious anticipation of a permanent solution to the threat to their safety. Who will give all to keep Earth safe? Enter our Hero, Jared Jasper, brother to the previous installment's heroine. He knows about the limelight; his family's been in it for a long time. Now's his time to step up to the plate and make a stand for the people and all because of his big, sexy mouth. After a precipitous video encounter with a fiery alien beauty, via a crashed alien spacecraft, Jared finds himself her reluctant consort. A man through and through though, Jared's ready to bring his game to the people of not only Earth, but his soon-to-be-bride's as well. Keira, Queen of galactic superpower Sakka, is under pressure to marry. No one's remotely interested her till backwater Earth member Jared Jasper. While she'll bow to her council's wishes in this regard, she will retain complete control of her unwanted marriage. From the moment he steps foot on her frigid planet though, Jared not only dares to question her council's motives, but goes several further and dares to make her feel. On a planet in the throws of intergalactic disaster, can they divert the hated Drakken, keep Earth safe and surmount a rocky marriage? These aliens, the good and the bad, are in for a surprise because they've never met an Earthling on a mission. At first, I felt I should have read the first book previously. But then author Grant saved this reader's day by interweaving just enough of the previous book's (titled Your Planet or Mine?) plot and characters to set the scene perfectly for this entry. Too, it hooked me solidly for backtracking to the first one as soon as possible. That being said, Jared and Keira's story was as utter delight. We have a queen, revered in the highest sense monarchs can be, who is more vulnerable than the poorest of Earth's residents. Intrigue, murder and intergalactic espionage--it's all right here and written in a snappy, fast paced style that's enjoyable and witty. Keira, being who she is, has the opportunity to come off as arrogant and snobby, but fortunately she has a sensitive Earthling to delve under her protective layers. Jared's been dealt a low blow, having to save the world, but his new life's not without some perks. He's a genuinely caring husband to Keira, what she needs most at a crucial point. My Favorite Earthling is a marvelous addition to Ms. Grant's already impressive romance shelf. Be on the lookout for the third book, How to Lose an Extraterrestrial in Ten Days, starring Jared's other sister, Evie.
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Murphys Law
by
Lori Foster
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Ms. Foster brings us the sequel to Jude's Law. Teaming with witty dialogue, excellent characters and a little bit of suspense, this one literally had me up till the crack of dawn. It was that hard to put down. I laughed, I cried, then both at the same time. Ashley Miles has goals in life and no one better mess with them. The only problem is someone is trying to mess with them, but good. We met Ashley in Foster's previous title, "Jude's Law", as the sassy best friend of May. On her night cleaning job, she meets Quinton Murphy, savvy business mogul and all around heartthrob extraordinaire. Sure, she's attracted to him, but if he thinks he's getting inside her carefully erected shields, well, he's got another thing coming. She had a hard enough life with deadbeat parents and she's not about to end up like them. But how can she resist his persistent pursuit? He's wearing her down slow and steady, in tantalizingly sexy ways. Amongst the steam and starry eyes though, a killer has his eye on Ashley. The tragic cloud hanging over from Jude's past has set new sights on her and the killer is determined to make her pay for her interference. With her life literally on the line, Ashley and Quinton will go through trials no couple should ever see. Will their relationship survive the onslaught? A long anticipated sequel, "Murphy's Law" panned out to be all it promised and much more. Ashley was a favorite character of mine from the previous installment and Quinton was a definite eye-catcher. Their dialogue throughout is fast paced, snappy and downright hilarious. Ashley alone could fill pages and pages of dialogue by herself--she is that vivid. Quinton is a man that knows how to plan a seduction and any woman would love to be his prey. Smart, genuinely caring and hot, hot, hot, he's the perfect man. Like Ashley, he's not without his little secrets, but once they were revealed, I only loved him more. Characters from the first book make an appearance. Jude and May's relationship is solidified. Denny (Jude's fighting trainer) is back and still training the seemingly deadbeat Tim into a human fit for living. It's an all around, wonderful read, not one to be missed. Absolutely brilliant, Ms. Foster! It's a keeper for me, one I'm certain to revisit again. K. Montgomery Official Reviewer for The Mystic Castle
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Lover Awakened BDB 03
by
J R Ward
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Book one, "Dark Lover", is released and I am intrigued. Book two, "Lover Beware", releases and I am breathless. But "Lover Awakened"...I am beyond stunned. J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood will always be a coveted group of books on my shelf. Her weaving of each brother's story is flawless. From the young vampire trainees to the astounding leading male, readers will feel every emotion, every struggle that each character faces. Zsadist harbors, like all the brothers, a dark and tortured soul. In previous books he is touted as a vile man, accused of various crimes and potential ones. What lingers beneath the surface is a lost soul yearning for one that makes him complete--Zsadist just doesn't know it yet. Awakened begins where the previous installment left off, with the search for the missing Bella, a member of the glymera, their aristocracy. Zsadist feels a connection to the beautiful woman and his body is trying to tell him what his heart wants to deny. When he manages to extricate her from their enemies, the Lessers, he vows to destroy the one that took her. How he will manage to do this and keep the growing arousal she causes at bay, he isn't quite sure. And he will have to figure out if what he is fighting are indeed his body's needs or his heart's. Zsadist's background--that of a blood slave--comes slamming to the forefront in "Lover Awakened". Since his release hundreds of years ago, he hasn't exactly been living life. Just as it seems he's almost become comfortable with the angst and tortured feelings, Bella enters and stirs his buried heart like no other has ever been able to--not even his real brother Phury. Their attraction is the most pulse pounding of the series to date and that's putting it mildly. Wrap that heart-wrenching plot around the evolving storylines of Butch, the human cop turned friend, Vishous, and now Bella's brother, Revhenge, and "Lover Awakened" easily becomes my favorite so far. My few problems with the series are ones that will most likely be solved with later installments. The Lessening Society is still a very mild player, though the one called O was featured much more prominently than any of them had been before. I am still wondering though what in the world the two groups, or rather, their deities (Scribe Virgin for the vamps, The Omega for the lesser) have against one another. The lessers have great potential to be terrifying enemies, yet their role is significantly less than that of the Brothers. Thank goodness the Brothers and their females are so vivid. Despite the continued questions, it's an amazing entry into the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Stay tuned for what's in store for Butch as Vishous steps up the cop's honorary membership into the group. "Lover Revealed" hits shelves March of 2007.
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Mona Lisa Awakening
by
Sunny
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
With the rich visuals and beguiling descriptions, I was hard pressed to remember that this erotic fantasy is actually set in current, modern time right in the good `ole U.S.A. For that, I say bravo to Sunny for creating a thoroughly engaging, unique world that pulses right underneath ordinary human noses. The world of the Monere, children of the moon, lives and breathes in a parallel existence with that of mortals, but is far more dangerous and elite than anything mere mortals could ever imagine. Lisa believes herself to be human, albeit one with some seriously strange talents. Not only that, but a restless presence resides within her, something that yearns to be free...something that wants to walk with its own feet, be they two, maybe even four. At her job one night in a hospital ER, Lisa meets a beautiful man, one that speaks to her inner sanctum and calls to the power she feels resides there. When he spouts gibberish about Queens and children of the moon, Lisa automatically thinks him mad, but this meeting is in fact the beginning to an awakening, one where she will finally start to come into her destiny, that of a Queen and all it entails. Little did she know another world existed, one of strange beauty, heart breaking sacrifices and unbelievable cruelty. But women like Lisa, now Mona Lisa as is her proper name, are few and she is needed to serve. Can this youngest Queen take on the role she is destined to have and will her Mixed Blood heritage be her salvation or her downfall? Only time will tell and readers will delight in the first in this series, a strong and moving story that had me immediately in its grasp. One thing I noticed right off is we are not inundated with an overload of the world and culture of the Monere to the point of overwhelming. This allows one to fully enjoy the romance that is immediately apparent between Mona Lisa and her hospital visitor, Gryphon. Sunny leaves plenty of room for readers to form questions and develop an interest in the books to come without being obnoxiously withholding of information in turn. There is an amazing cast of supporting characters, from Amber, Mona Lisa's other love interest to the powerful Prince Halcyon, a member of the demon dead. The often-cruel visuals presented are a harsh reality of the world of Monere, one that readers sensitive to acts of violence towards women should be aware of. Though violence towards women is never a good thing, Mona Lisa seems to be the first Monere to come along with the heart and passion to try and change that facet and make a difference. She is the kind of heroine that is both vulnerable and strong, one of amazing powers and powerful emotions. Five very well deserved stars to this fresh and unique fantasy romance. While some may feel this is similar to other works already published, I feel it does a better job. Looking very forward to the sequel, "Mona Lisa Blossoming", Feb. 6, 2007 and also her new series, the Demon Princess Chronicles, the first entitled "Lucinda, Darkly", Aug. 7, 2007.
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Light My Fire Aisling Grey 03
by
Katie Macalister
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
By Golly, She's a Professional! At least, that's what she keeps insisting throughout the book. No matter how tricky her situation, no matter how convoluted her life becomes I just cannot look away. It's that very reason the character of Aisling Grey continues to entertain with such riveting, side splittingly induced laughter. If ever there was a story of an underdog in paranormal romances, this series is it. Having recently acquired a mentor in whom to learn all things Guardian, Aisling feels life is finally looking up for her. But then she gets another dose of Otherworld reality upside the noggin and it's back down that slippery slope once more. Once she gets to sliding, it's rather hard for Aisling to stop too. After coming to terms with the stoic Drake, wyvern of the green dragons and her mate, she's ready to take on the responsibilities it entails. Dragon politics are never pretty though and when imps run amuck, demons from Abbadon begin demanding impromptu meetings, and even more prestigious positions in the Otherworld open up to her, it's all Aisling can do to keep her pet demon Effrijim fed and up to date on his walkies. The one irritant about this series to date is Aisling's continued ignorance. Granted, she's not had much time to get on her studies, but a little boning up on the basic running of the Otherworld would gain her tremendous resources and a little common sense. How she has managed to survive so far with all her bungling is amazing. And therein lies the crux--it just wouldn't be the same Aisling if she were indeed wiser to the happenings around her. This third installment continues on the first two's tradition of non-stop laughter and incredible situations that will leave readers gasping to see how she gets out of current situations. I feel even though she is the main character in the story, she is somewhat of an underdog due to her lack of knowledge about the Otherworld. If she was as knowledgeable as she possibly could be, man oh man she'd be astounding. The secondary characters that have carried throughout so far, Rene, Jim the demon hound and Drake make each installment that much more a delight to read. I do believe Jim, who is usually the comic relief, is my favorite character of the series with the best lines to boot. Drake, as heroes go, is handsome, very alpha, yet not nearly in focus as our flawed Aisling, but this is a first person novel. Their relationship does gain some positive ground in this installment, but anything can happen in the Otherworld, especially with Aisling in the mix. As always, the incredible events told in this one have opened many new possibilities for Aisling's next set of Guardian adventures. Can't wait to see what she tangles up next!
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Invasion Of Falgannon Isle
by
Debora Macgillivray
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Picking up this book is akin to sliding into a modern day twist on Alice in Wonderland. Though no rabbit holes lurk about for us to fall into, readers will indeed be sucked into this delightful world created by Author MacGillivray in the Hebrides of Scotland. An isle so removed from the hardships of the modern world, Falgannon will reach into your heart and entice you to join its madcap ranks. B.A. Montgomerie is the lady of Falgannon and the keeper of the peoples' happiness and prosperity. Through an ancient curse going back to Pictish times, no man of Falgannon will have a lasting marriage till their lady succumbs to and weds a man with green eyes and Ireland in his soul. Despite this, B.A. advertises Falgannon as the Isle of Love in hopes of finding her 213 lads brides. When Desmond Mershan descends upon the isle with his Viking invaders, the men of Falgannon are in cahoots to see their lady bedded and wedded to the enigmatic man. Desmond is not adverse to the idea, as they will suit his ulterior motives well. What he didn't count on was a mass of genuinely caring individuals, an isle that draws him into a surreal sense of homecoming and a bewitching lady that threatens to shake his heart's hardened veneer. By end of chapter one, I am breathless with laughter and thoroughly spellbound by Falgannon and its eclectic mix of souls. Removed as they are from the unsavory elements of the world, the characters, from B.A. and Desmond to The Cat Dudley, imbue this read with a delightful plethora of fresh witticisms and insights of life. B.A. is a strong heroine, one willing to go to enormous emotional lengths for Desmond's tortured soul. Desmond in turn is a breathtaking hero, bent on destruction, but saved by love's embrace. Author MacGillivray continues to astound with her second romantic novel, first in her Seven Sisters of Colford Hall series and proves that she has what it takes to move between the genres. I am eagerly awaiting Raven's and Asha's stories, which coincide with B.A.'s. Bravo, Ms. MacGillivray and keep 'em coming!
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Duchess on the Run
by
Christa Fairchild
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Elizabeth Edwards has lived the embodiment of a privileged life. All the money in the world can't secure the heart of her affianced lord though, and she flees England when his betrayal cuts too close to home. When she takes refuge in the Boston home of her grandparents, not even an ocean is enough to thwart his increasingly disturbing actions. An ad out of Nebraska for a mail order bride catches her eye. She knows the man penning it might be the means to her salvation. Through many heartfelt and cautious letters, she begins to know this steadfast and seemingly quiet man. Graham Ballard needs a wife, pure and simple. His first attempt at marriage was a disaster in all ways except his two children, but he doggedly pursues another through the mail. The only answer to his missive, a young lady of obviously genteel origins, intrigues him like no other ever has. Despite this, can she survive the vast loneliness the long winters and cold nights induce? Graham has reached the end of his tolerance for the wretched emotion and he invites the young miss to visit. Will the shadows of his former marriage haunt his and Elizabeth's budding feelings? Even more alarming, will the long hand of her oppressive duke shake their tenuous beginnings? Author Fairchild makes it abundantly clear what makes this novel a winner from the very first page--it's marvelous characters and their riveting emotions. Rarely do we see the time taken to delve into the hero's depths as Ms. Fairchild does with Graham. Failure can be a crippling force, one Graham feels almost everyday until Elizabeth bursts into his cold Nebraska nights, and filling them instead with a warmth and vitality he feared long dead. For one so young, Elizabeth displays an amazing intuition or those around her and her and Graham's attraction is endearingly sweet and then blazingly hot at alternating times, tipping the emotional scales from one end to the other. There is a marvelous setup for a sequel involving Elizabeth's brother, one I can't wait to read! Bravo to a wonderful, heartwarming romance that has remained in my memory since reading the first page. Highly recommended for those relaxed, treat filled weekends.
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Parallel Attraction
by
Deirdre Knight
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
For a science fiction romance set on Earth, I was increasingly impressed with how imaginative and engaging the storyline is. Many have wondered are aliens amongst us even now as we drive to work, shop or play in the park. In Ms. Knight's brilliantly penned debut novel, it's an all out alien war that threatens to engulf not only the two opposing cultures involved, but the unsuspecting residents of oblivious Earth too. Jared Bennet is a king in exile, strategically removed from the frontlines of his people's war against a conquering race. With the development of a powerful weapon though, the war is coming ever closer to him and an intriguing human woman he cannot let go of. Kelsey Wells has seen first hand the alien "otherness" that is Jared. It's clear the handsome alien needs something from her, but seductive kisses and heated exchanges soon cloud not only Jared's mission, but Kelsey's heart as well. Just as their relationship begins to take shape, Kelsey will undergo a terrifying journey at the hands of a traitor. The only question is will hers and Jared's love be given a second chance--or will all that Jared's people have fought for be lost? Maybe more importantly, can they have both at once? This is a detail packed roller coaster of a romance, and it doesn't slow down from the moment it starts. Torn between duty and the chance at love, Jared is portrayed as a king without country, humble and achingly sexy in his attraction to Kelsey. Both have been searching for something, someone, their whole lives and when they meet it's a classic "meant to be" feeling. Their relationship is beautifully drawn out and wonderful to read. In addition, Ms. Knight creates two thoroughly intriguing race of aliens with unique abilities that turned a possibly normal science fiction romance into one of spectacular possibilities and endless need-to-know-more details. Look to the sequel, Parallel Heat, starring this one's resident bad guy, to find out more about the passionate aliens Ms. Knight has created.
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Parallel Heat
by
Deidre Knight
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Ms. Knight's phenomenal sci-fi series just keeps climbing and climbing. Action, aliens, aliens that no one can see and blazing hot love scenes all combine in such a way as to make this a very unique second effort. The story takes off where we left it last, with Earth on the brink of a war the likes of they've never seen and many Refarian lives hanging in the balance too. In the midst of all that hulla bulla, the king's ex fianc? has to deal with rejection and a new burning she'd not expected. Thea Haven resents her king and Queen. The human Kelsey Wells stole what was rightfully hers...didn't she? Torn between her feelings and her sworn duty as a soldier, Thea must come to grips with her fate. Thing is, Fate isn't through with her yet. An ancient sect of royal guardians is tracking Thea's camp and their king, in hopes of remaining anonymous while protecting at the same time. Marco McKinley is one of these Madjin and he will do all he can to protect every royal member, Thea included. From the moment she enters a common, human infested bar, her life is forever changed. Thea and Marco's instant attraction is the ultimate taboo. Feelings and urges hold more sway though, and amidst the crumbling efforts to see Earth protected against their alien enemies, they will have to filter through the terror of loss to chance having what they want. Edge-of-your seat action and a nicely continued plot from the first book, "Parallel Attraction", quite literally astounds. Ms. Knight's weaving of her new world and intricate details are some of the cleverest I've read in a sci-fi romance. Since this alien culture has the ability to alter time, it can get tricky, so readers should stick to the pages like glue and not skip around! I strongly urge newcomers to the series to pick up the first book and read it before continuing with this gripping second installment. The third in the series, Parallel Seduction (April 2007) can't come soon enough for me! Thank you, Ms. Knight, for penning such a unique series!
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Ask For It
by
Sylvia Day
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
My introduction to Day's work was her anthology entitled "Bad Boys Ahoy!" and I was instantly impressed with the sensual feel that her historical plots exude. The historical aspects are masterfully blended to give that long ago era feel and enrich the lives she weaves for her characters. Rounded out with engaging plots and perfect pacing, Ms. Day easily becomes one of my most watched for authors. Marcus Ashford, Earl of Westfield relishes the opportunity to rush to his former fianc?'s side when it becomes known she is in danger. As an agent to the Crown, who better to serve her in every way he possibly can? He has burned for her for four years, years in which he was tormented at the thought of her married to another. What really went wrong so long ago when she was meant to be his? While an old danger that killed her husband looms, Marcus will do everything he must in order to make her answer for his anguish and his once again raging needs. Lady Hawthorne, Elizabeth, is literally laid siege to by the one man she hoped never to meet again. The pain of Marcus's betrayal drove her away and into another's arms, and it's a sore fact she cannot forget. He leaves her no room in which to run this time and she is forced to face not only the dangers surrounding her late husband's death, but also the added dangers of his mysterious journal. Everyone wants it and so Elizabeth has no choice but to trust the one man she couldn't trust with her heart. The question is, is it worth the risk this time? Ms. Day continues to thrill me with her passionate and strong characters. Her plots are rich in detail, both the sensual and non-sensual variety. The action is not over the top, but just enough to keep one interested in events as they unfold. Marcus is a strong, dominant man who thrilled this reader with his primal pursuit of Elizabeth. Elizabeth in turn is stronger than even she realized and is quite capable of taking on the forceful man. Their love scenes are heavenly to read, both erotic and sweet at once. This is going on my keeper shelf and I await "Passion For the Game", about Christopher St. John (an important character in this book), June, 2007. Ms. Day is also releasing "The Stranger I Married" in January of 2007. Glad to see this author keeping `em coming!
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Touched By Darkness
by
Catherine Spangler
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Awaiting a Catherine Spangler book is like waiting for that elusive present you only get on birthdays or Christmas mornings. Her gripping sci-fi romance originals have delighted fans of the genre for quite a long while and I couldn't have been happier to see this new release. Spangler takes a break from the future though and opens our eyes to an evil walking right here, amongst humans on present day earth. Dr. Kara Cantrell is hiding from an ancient evil, one that took her beloved from her and one that now has the power to destroy her son Alex as well. When she spies Sentinel Damien Morgan, a dispenser of Atlantian justice, she's sure trouble has found her again. He wants her--to help track down the Belian, crazed followers of an ancient dark rebel Atlantian, that is committing murders in her town of Zorro, Texas. With his responsibilities in the forefront, Damien cannot afford the distractions the lovely Kara brings to his emotionally stripped world. He will do everything in his power to gain her help, for if she refuses, the citizens of Zorro will be in far greater danger than they have ever imagined. Malice and murder have set sights on Kara and Alex and only Damien can stop it. Will Kara let go of her past fears in time to help...and will Damien learn to open his heart to what he thought never to have? One of those all-nighters, "Touched by Darkness" is a fast-paced, action infused thrill of a romance. No one pens a tale of this magnitude like author Spangler and I am absolutely thrilled with her newest series. Kara is a mother desperate to preserve a sense of normalcy for a son that is anything but normal. Her plight is heartbreaking, but at the same time readers are reassured by Damien's handling of the problem. He steps in, as mentor to Alex and at the same time must guard himself against a growing attraction to Kara. Damien and Kara's romance is one that simmers slowly and builds to a heart-tripping crescendo, only to build again and again over the course of the story. Spangler's style, I'm happy to say, has changed quite spectacularly with this new series and she infuses a new feeling into it, guaranteeing readers are getting a totally new experience from her. At the end of the book, I am still flying high in anticipation of the next one, "Touched by Fire", due out fall of 2007. As always, Ms. Spangler, one hundred percent satisfied. Reviewed for Paranormal Romance Reviews
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Playing With Fire Tales of an Extraordinary Girl 01
by
Gena Showalter
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Along come mad scientists, secret sub-government agencies and...control over the four elements? In a non-stop thrill of a laughter-inducing ride, one simple gal just trying to make a buck finds out there's more to life than coffee and the next lame job. Only problem is, will her new talents consume her, or will she master the potentially volatile forces? Belle Jamison needs a new job to support not only her needs, but those of her elderly father too. She's trying extra hard not to screw up the job she has currently as well as the interview she's got later the same day. Only problem is she's a bit of a smart alec and she's hanging by a thread because of it. When a man bursts into the coffee shop where she works, begging for help, it's Belle who catches his eye. Hours later, after being detained by some pretty convincing agents, Belle's not feeling so hot. All she had was a mocha latte, so why the sudden flu-like symptoms? In a haze, she stumbles through her interview and barely makes it home where she collapses. The next morning doesn't bring any relief and to make matters worse, there's a hot man at her side--only his hotness is not the issue--his wanting to kill her is. With new powers come all new problems and Belle has to find a way to get back to simple `ole her. Only, she might be starting to like the new her... Belle's story is in first person, so anyone not fond of those need be aware of this. Belle is perhaps one of my most favorite female leads I've ever encountered in a romance. She's determined, loyal to the good side and she knows what she wants and goes after it. Plus, she's got some faults and she's not afraid to admit it. It's the combination of her pluses and minuses that make her so unique. The dialogue throughout, with whomever she interacts with, is riddled with laugh-out-loud wit and I was very impressed with how the secondary characters shown through. Rome's role as hero was no less emphasized than Belle's and he is hot, hot hot! The addition of his family lent the story a desperate feel at times as he and Belle strive to make the world a safer place for people like them. If you are a fan of first person comedy/paranormal romances, heroines that save the day make you smile, heroes that make you sigh and a great cast of secondary characters, then I can't recommend this one enough. The plot wraps up very nicely, but sounds as if it might continue with more? Either way, I was thrilled and would love to see more if Ms. Showalter chooses to do so.
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Rising Moon Night Creature 06
by
Lori Handeland
Kenda Montgomery
, January 25, 2007
Anne Lockhart is a private investigator on a mission to find her sister Katie. Missing for three years, a photo in the mail of Katie spurs an impromptu trip to New Orleans, where Anne's pretty sure she can never fit in amongst the voodoo and Mardi Gras spirit. She heads straight for the Rising Moon, the club her sister appeared in front of, where she encounters an astounding man. His musical talents draw people like bees to honey and his blatant sex appeal doesn't hurt either. John Rodolfo, blind and loner by choice, is more moved by Anne than he'd like to be. Her voice calls to him, and before long, her pull is too strong to resist. Even as their attraction wins out, John condemns himself for he can bring her nothing good. As Anne unravels the mystery of the missing Katie, John's involvement becomes frighteningly clearer and the unexplained deaths in New Orleans for the past six months come to a boiling head. Voodoo alters, strange wolves and multiple missing persons make for a confounding stage, but Anne manages to hold her own admirably. With all its amazing twists, this one kept me guessing till the very end. What started as a series about her jager-sucher (German for "hunter-searcher") characters hunting down supernatural baddies, has transpired now into the Nightcreature series (in the last three books, this one included). The focus is more on the werewolves, in various forms, and how their continued mayhem has affected the city of New Orleans. Dirty, raucous and yet still hopeful, New Orleans itself has a strong voice in this novel, with clear tributes made, celebrating its survival instincts and love of passionate life. There can be no better place for this series as Handeland draws it out and encourages its gritty and boisterous nature. Her characters thrive there and soon Anne is living the strange unreality the city so often portrays. Her drive to find her missing sister, while vital, does not define her. Her character still feels passion and sympathy for those around her. She's the perfect counterpart to John's determined aloofness and determinedly self-inflicted torment. If readers have followed the series, John will begin to ring eerily familiar and the surprising twist towards the end may have you gasping at his identity. Several previous characters make an appearance, the jager-suchers, Detective Sullivan and the gutsy voodoo priestess Cassandra, but this one can be read alone and still be moderately enjoyed. Would I personally advise it? No. To fully understand and appreciate John's plight, readers might want to have at least read "Crescent Moon", the official start of the Nightcreature chapter in the series. The romance, I'm happy to say, picked up considerably in this installment. Their attraction is believable and heartwrenching. Handeland's signature tight, clean writing style might seem bare bones to some, but fits so well with her fast-paced and suspenceful storylines. Another five star winner from an amazing author. Her next Nightcreature novel, "Hidden Moon", releases July 31, 2007.
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Insufficient Mating Material
by
Rowena Cherry
Kenda Montgomery
, December 02, 2006
What is it like, exactly, when two gods go head to head? One will come out the top dog for sure, but it might not be the one readers originally think of. Even on a (supposedly) deserted island, Rowena Cherry can spice up our lives hotter than the blazing sun and it's survival of the royal fittest in her latest futuristic romance, sequel to the phenomenal "Forced Mate". Princess Martia-Djulia, sister to the hero in Cherry's first book, is enraged when she is deceived by her brother and almost tricked into a royal marriage to an insufficient and malnourished prince. Where is her beloved Jason, the lusty and enigmatic lover she cannot, nor wants to, forget? When she flees the ill planned Mating ceremony, her twisted emperor brother has no choice but to take matters into his own hands. Prince Djetthro-Jason must mince words and actions--literally. After a brutal beating at the hands of the Tigron Emperor, he must tread carefully if he wishes to live. Fortunately all the carefully laid steps are taking him in what has become an increasingly intriguing direction. The Princess Martia-Djulia makes for quite an entertaining and vexing partner when they become stranded on a deserted An' Koori island. Survival has met its match in the pampered and fluffy-minded woman and it's all the prince can do to see that they both survive the long, enticing nights let alone meet their more basic needs. Oh, what fun can be had under the cover of golden sheets! Author Cherry doesn't mince words in her amazing sci-fi tales. Stellar wit, wonderful characters and amazing research into basic and not so basic survival techniques make for a very real and relatable environment for the prince and princess. This was without a doubt one of my favorite reads of 2006! Cherry's style is very unique, her voice a fresh and sidesplitting barrel of non-stop fun. She has created one of the more unique sci-fi worlds and her seamless weaving of the main and subplots only supports that she is an author to watch as she rises to the top of the genre. Please keep the fresh and unique tales coming, Ms. Cherry! Hungry for more of this insatiable and lusty culture!
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Falcons Bride
by
Dawn Thompson
Kenda Montgomery
, August 24, 2006
Put your thinking caps on fellow readers. Don't blink, don't skip around?there are so many wonderful details. Dawn Thompson is back with another winner, this time even more rich in romance, suspense and pulse-pounding action. Thompson is a glowing example of an author that only gets better with each book published, her craft aging like a fine wine. Her books are keeper shelf worthy for sure! 1811. Theodosia Barrington, or Thea as she prefers to be called, has traveled to Cashel Cosgrove in County Meath, Ireland, to meet with her betrothed and commence with their wedding. Accompanied by her brother, James, it's immediately apparent that Nigel Crosgrove and his mother, the countess, are not quite the nicest of individuals. But there are gains for both sides?the wealth of the Cosgroves will benefit Thea's family and her by Nigel's side will help stifle the horrible rumors circulating about an alleged crime on Nigel's part. When an elderly Gypsy woman insists upon entry into the castle, she tells Thea of an astounding destiny surrounding the castle's original owner?one that cannot be true. But when said owner, Ros Drumcondra, appears as a spirit to her, she cannot deny the proud Gypsy warrior's affect on her. When she unknowingly enters a portal to 1695, Thea will encounter the physical proof of her desires, the enigmatic Gypsy chief himself. Thea is in for a mind-bending, time-hopping adventure of a romance because not only will Ros use her to exact revenge on the Cosgroves, he will also enslave her very heart. A book worthy of late-night binge reading doesn't come around very often. I truly hated to put this wonderful book down and was so glad when I could return to it to pick up again. Thea is a wonderful heroine. Full of life, she knows what is in her heart. She reaches for it too with every part of her being. The fact that she is reaching for Ros Drumcondra only reinforces my liking of her. Ros embodies the strong alpha male, yet is still sensitive enough to appreciate a woman like Thea in all the right ways. His virile presence resonates throughout the story and I sympathized greatly with his plight. Thompson is an author that amazes and astounds. Her clear understanding of the time periods she writes in shines through each word written and she writes them in such a way that the reader will understand. Full of action, romance, astoundingly well-written characters, "The Falcon's Bride" excels in every way imaginable. Another solid, good time-travel romance has been a long time coming. Thank you, Ms. Thompson, for a wonderful journey. As usual, looking forward to your next! K. Montgomery Official Reviewer for The Mystic Castle
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Fistful Of Charms Rachel Morgan 04
by
Kim Harrison
Kenda Montgomery
, July 05, 2006
I love this series. No, I mean I REALLY love this series! A quick rundown of its finer points: It?s got action, though not over the top. It has a smidgeon of romance that lends a slight sensitive air to an often dangerous and suspenseful atmosphere. It has amazingly strong characters, from villain to heroine, that make you feel and know who they really are. And finally, though never least, it has a solid plot that advances satisfactorily with each progressive installment. Rachel Morgan has had some tough issues to deal with in less than one year. She?s been marked for death by the organization that she once worked for and survived. She?s been marked and almost claimed by a rather nasty demon, yet managed to best even that complex being. And so achingly close to home, she?s still coming to terms with her scattered love life, confusingly twisted around her roommate Ivy, her lover Kisten and former boyfriend Nick. It?s not a love triangle, but it comes durn close! When her estranged partner, Jenks, comes on board for one last run, they?re off to Michigan to pull Nick and one of Jenks? sons out of trouble. As always with our dear, flawed Rachel, she gets way more than she bargained for and soon they?re fending off the unwanted attentions of some disturbingly unified were packs. Why are the Weres uniting and what will it bring as the normally submissive species climbs its way towards top of the supernatural food chain? Nothing good for the vamps, which have much to lose if the packs do unite. With ultra aggressive Weres sniping from every direction, and more undead looking on her with not so subtle lust, what?s a poor earth witch to do? With Rachel, it's an open book and fans may be surprised at the lengths she?s willing to go to in this one. If Harrison?s new book is on the shelves, every other book I?ve got waiting to be read will just have to wait longer. Harrison pulls readers right in once again with this excruciatingly enticing installment, which I am completely convinced is the best of the series to date. Told in the first person, we?re allowed a depth of Rachel?s character that seems so much more personal than with books told in third person. Readers will feel every punch, every wound and recovery effort Rachel takes on throughout the story, as well as every emotion. This is an emotional wringer, with Rachel, Jenks and Ivy?s problems laid barer than they?ve ever been before. There are two levels of betrayal that raised the bar in this one, one towards Rachel, the other towards Jenks that helped set this one apart from the previous books. And of course, the ever suspenseful situation of Rachel and Ivy? Kim Harrison is an amazing author, one I am so happy to see continuing with this thrilling rollercoaster ride we?re on with her. Waiting with not much patience here for the next one!
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Sea King
by
Jolie Mathis
Kenda Montgomery
, June 16, 2006
Destiny weaves a wicked web, a dangerous mixture of deceitful lies and hidden truths in this thrilling tale by new author Jolie Mathis. Trapped in shades of thick grey, the characters in ?The Sea King? have a lifetime of betrayal to overcome. One tale of love shall endure, the obstacles in its path mere hindrances compared to the depth of feeling that abounds from our hero and heroine. Kol Thorleksson, Viking conqueror, came once to the lands of Norsex and was condemned a villain. The beguiling girl he saved was indeed his downfall, yet he could not doubt her courage when she in turn freed him from his prison. Two years later, he clings still to the image of the girl that freed him as he ravages the land of the king that tried to end his life. That girl, now a woman, was the Princess Isabel. She is torn by this man, this angel savior whose memory she grasped like a lifeline. Something evil happened to her the day that angel rescued her, but is he the man responsible for her ruin? How can he be when her heart beats for his touch? As danger and false allies appear from every aspect of her life, will Isabel and Kol live long enough to come to terms with their scars? Only a reckoning can untwist this sordid skein of treachery, and that reckoning will shake everything Isabel has ever known. The level of sheer good in this book is astounding. Ms. Mathis is a talented new author that sets a remarkably high standard with this break out romance. Her writing is superb, smooth flowing and uncluttered. Kol and Isabel are a gripping couple, their individual story fascinating to behold. So much lies between them, so much conflict and so much love. Kol is an imposing man, flawed in his own mind and tormented, but strong and sensually dominant as well. Isabel was a wonderful heroine; bold, calm in the midst of tragedy and fair of heart. She is a true leader. Many secondary characters add to the ever-heightening sense that all is not right in the kingdom of Norsex, especially with its nobles. Many plot twists kept me on my toes, breathless to discover the real traitor. More please Ms. Mathis! I?m ready to go a-Viking again! K. Montgomery Official Reviewer for The Mystic castle
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His Wicked Kiss
by
Gaelen Foley
Kenda Montgomery
, May 28, 2006
As a long awaited historical by Ms. Foley, ?His Wicked Kiss? was more than worth the wait. The pinnacle of this wonderful series takes readers on a spectacular voyage of oceanic proportions. Make way for the story of Black-Jack Knight, scourge of the Knight family?or is he? Eden Farraday is tired of her rugged existence in the wilds of Venezuela. Her father, brilliant though he is, has finally gone round the bend. He wants to take them even further into the untamed lands, into the very heart of the forbidden Amazon! Craving a life amongst London society, Eden is determined to escape her mad father. When the infamous Jack Knight floats downriver to their settlement, Eden hatches a plan to stow away. Her plan becomes reality when he refuses aid, forcing her to hide on his ship. Jack discovers the untamed beauty, and finding the close quarters of ship and berth too much to resist, the two embark on a journey of survival and discovery?of the heart. Someone pursues Eden though, a dangerous man not of mind to give her up. Enemies lurk as Jack further involves himself in the war between Venezuela and Spain. Can their differences be set aside and most important?can Jack learn to trust in love? Many readers wondered as they savored Ms Foley?s Knight series?will we ever read about the elusive Jack? Jack?s story is the best of the series to date and this reader couldn?t have come away more pleased. Appearances are not always what they seem, something Jack proves in his vulnerabilities. His reputation precedes him, but it does not define him. Eden is a rare lady; one raised without the negative and twisted attitudes of society. Her fresh approach to life is the catalyst for Jack?s healing. Foley uses rich dialogue and plotting to engage the reader from start to finish. A superb example of a writer that improves more with every book. But is this the end of our beloved Knights? Why, no! Stay tuned for three more Knights, cousins, Georgina, Gabriel and Derek. K. Montgomery Official Reviewer for The Mystic Castle
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No Law Against Love
by
Deborahanne Macgillivray and Leanne Burroughs and Cissy Hassell
Kenda Montgomery
, May 11, 2006
Romance lovers the world over can rejoice in this fantastic volume of short stories. Based on obscure and little known laws, each tale of romance centers around one of the laws. It's a fascinating concept for an anthology and one guaranteed to spark some imaginative scenarios! Sixteen writers, producing twenty-four awesome stories, gave of their time and efforts to aid in finding a cure for breast cancer. There's reason enough in my mind to purchase this volume. Think about it though-twenty-four romance stories-that's quite a bargain! From break out authors DeborahAnne MacGillivray and Leanne Burroughs to fantastic new authors like Kristi Ahlers and Jacquie Rogers, there's plenty here for any type of romance fan. It was interesting to see what so many different authors could put together in one volume. From Scottish mountain cats in eye patches to travel agent fairies and shady angels, this volume runs the gamut of romance reading fun. Whatever your romance style; contemporary, paranormal, historical, it's all here waiting for you. Get a copy today and curl up on the couch with it. Read it at the gym or enjoy it on a sunny day at the park-however you like to read, just get it and prepare to enjoy! Be on the look out for all these rising romance writers. I predict many happy hours of reading pleasure from their stories and books alone!
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Restless Knight
by
Debora Macgillivray
Kenda Montgomery
, May 11, 2006
Have you ever read a story that spoke to your soul, a story that leaped to life before your very eyes? Could a simple sheet of plain printed newsprint really hold magic within its thin grasp? I discovered upon reading ?A Restless Knight? by Ms. MacGillivray that all these things indeed happen. Upon reading the first few pages, I felt gut punching breathless, eager to get through the entire book that very night. It is April of 1296. The Dragon of Challon, feared warlord of Edward Longshanks, threatens Tamlyn MacShane?s beloved Highland home. Little is known of the pagan daughters of Hadrian of Kinmarch, other than their matriarchal passing of lands and property. Through his Seeding of Scotland campaign, Longshanks will see these spirited lasses come to heel. On orders to take the rebellious lass to wife, Julian Challon is desperate to claim Glen Shane and castle Glenrogha, as well as the bewitching Tamlyn, for his war weary soul--his hardened heart and sanity are in need of its soul soothing promise. Julian rescues Tamlyn from a few less than honorable knights and their alliance takes tentative root. She, touched with the fey kenning, will teach Julian the magical mysteries of the Highlands, the beauty it holds and the healing it wields. Julian has longed for such all his life--a wife, children and a home to truly call his own--and he will defend them with his very life. In the shadows of war, will Longshanks let them have their peace? As Tamlyn and Julian come to care for one another, will their newfound strength be enough to repel the Storm that stirs? Break out author Deborah MacGillivray has penned one of the most intriguing and refreshing Highland stories to hit the romance shelves in years. Riddled with history and the pagan lore of Scotland, the details just blew me away. Always in the forefront, the romance between Tamlyn and Julian was, at alternating times, full of mirth, heartache and utter joy. Their passion and fortitude in a time of war embodies the strong nature of the Scots people. Readers will find the secondary characters equally as interesting. Longshanks, and his vile deeds, was portrayed with all the chilling foreboding of a king gone mad. Tamlyn?s sisters and cousin, also landed Scots women, prove to be hellcats in their own right, and readers will be cheering for their stories as well. Poignant writing and loving attention to Scots history makes this a spectacular first romance for Ms. MacGillivray! I?m in desperate want of more!
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Forced Mate
by
Rowena Cherry
Kenda Montgomery
, May 08, 2006
As a huge fan of sci-fi romance, I feel the world does not have enough of these great, intricately imaginative authors. I search long and hard for books like "Forced Mate" and I was very pleased by the second chapter! If you have an appreciation for well thought out plots, ones that dare to overstep the boundaries that exist for romances today, then take that flying leap of faith with Rowena Cherry's "Forced Mate". Prepare to literally steep in the intrigue, character conflict, unique world-building and blazingly hot romance. Prince Tarrant-Arragon, whose name reminds me instantly of "tyrant" and "arrogant", is in need of a mate. Not any mate will do though--he needs the last fertile female of his people. Djinni-vera, or Jinny a she calls herself, is that last fertile princess. Hidden on Earth for her protection, she is nonetheless ferreted out by Tarrant. Being that she is very sensitive about his reputation, Tarrant decides not to reveal his true identity. He will tame his defiant mate-to-be, but soon he wants more than just her compliance. In an adventure of the heart that takes them from Earth to the oppressive Royal Deserts and the War Star of the inferior An'Koori, Tarrant-Arragon and Djinni-vera will have to come face to face with what makes each other tick. Will what they find out about one another shape their love or tear it apart? What a spectacular read! I did not like Tarront-Arragon at first, though I found him vastly amusing. As a future emperor, he had the delusion that everything he wanted would fall at his feet in gratitude. Not so our heroine. Djinni gives our sexy hero a run for his money, and he, in turn, her. It's an interstellar chess match of wit, wooing and many surprises for the both of them. Author Cherry has penned a mind-blowing world in her new series. The attention to detail, the characters, it's all top-notch. I loved the secondary characters too, especially Grievous. Hint, hint, Ms. Cherry! Love to see more of him! Looking forward to your second in this wonderful series.
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