Cart
|
|
my account
|
wish list
|
help
|
800-878-7323
Hello, |
Login
MENU
Browse
New Arrivals
Bestsellers
Featured Preorders
Award Winners
Audio Books
See All Subjects
Used
Staff Picks
Staff Picks
Picks of the Month
Bookseller Displays
50 Books for 50 Years
25 Best 21st Century Sci-Fi & Fantasy
25 PNW Books to Read Before You Die
25 Books From the 21st Century
25 Memoirs to Read Before You Die
25 Global Books to Read Before You Die
25 Women to Read Before You Die
25 Books to Read Before You Die
Gifts
Gift Cards & eGift Cards
Powell's Souvenirs
Journals and Notebooks
socks
Games
Sell Books
Blog
Events
Find A Store
Don't Miss
Spring Sale
Big Mood Sale
Teen Dream Sale
Powell's Author Events
Oregon Battle of the Books
Audio Books
Get the Powell's newsletter
Visit Our Stores
Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
(0 comment)
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...
Read More
»
Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
(0 comment)
Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
(0 comment)
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
##LOC[Cancel]##
{1}
##LOC[OK]##
##LOC[Cancel]##
Customer Comments
romancingrakes has commented on (39) products
With This Kiss
by
Bella Riley
romancingrakes
, March 03, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance by Jamie*** Everyone has secrets. For Rebecca, her secret is someone else’s secret but it doesn’t make it any easier. Rebecca Campbell hasn’t been having a great couple of weeks. First, her wedding to Stu Murphy was called off two weeks before it was suppose to take place and then Stu just ups and leaves leaving Rebecca to run the Inn. The whole town is trying to figure out what she did to make him leave, when really the secret lies with Stu. Now, on the eve of her wedding, Stu’s brother Sean shows up and sparks fly. Sean arrives back home just in time for his brothers wedding but it seems he missed the memo that it was canceled. Then matters get worse when he realizes that the women he was checking out was Stu’s fiancé and the woman who ran him off. Sean can’t deny the sparks between him and Rebecca but he’s reluctant to get involved, and not just because she was his brothers fiancé. He has a secret of his own that keeps him at a distance. He knows Rebecca deserves more and he can’t offer it. Sean has been hurt by the one person who he trusted, and now his trust is basically nonexistent. It’s unusual that I love the heroine, I don’t know why but usually she annoys me but not Rebecca. She doesn’t have the best track record with men, Stu included, and finds herself falling back into old habits of falling for unavailable men with Sean. She knows she’s going to get hurt but she can’t resist. I have a lot of respect for her. What she does to try and help Sean knowing full well that it will most likely ruin everything for her makes me want a friend like that. I was blown away reading With This Kiss. My stomach was in knots and I couldn’t read it fast enough. It was a story that was full of romance and just a hint of mystery. I immediately fell in love with the character and didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait to read more from Bella Riley and go back to Emerald Lake. ***review copy from Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Kiss Me Im Irish The Sins of His Past Tangling with Ty Whatever Reillly Wants
by
Roxanne St Claire
romancingrakes
, March 03, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance*** The Sins of His Past by Roxanne St. Claire ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ That Deuce Monroe is something else. He's returned home due to being stupid and racing a car just to end up wrecking it. Now he's back and wonders what in the heck happened to Monroe's, the bar that has been passed on from father to son. Why is Monroe's spelled with a lowercase m and who put all these computers in it and why is the smell of coffee drifting from it's open doors? Oh Deuce, you've been gone far too long. Kendra Locke has held a torch for Deuce since she was a little girl, listening through the heater duct for all her brother's conversations with friends. One night was all it took to change Kendra's life forever and a secret that only those closest to her know. She's put Deuce out of her mind but from the minute he walks through the front doors of monroe's, her heart begins to open again; old feelings resurface. Dang you Deuce Monroe! Everything has changed for the better. The small seaside town of Rockingham, Massachusetts has become a destination place and the economy is picking up again. Kendra must at all costs keep her secret from Deuce all the while trying to fall back in love with him. Not that she ever stopped. Now, Deuce must not only fight for changing monroe's back into Monroe's but also try to keep himself from having a reason to stay in a town that he no longer knows. Roxanne St. Claire, I need to read more of you. For real. The moment Deuce was introduced, I fell in love with him. He was the bad boy with the cocky attitude who got your heart pounding but your head asking you where the heck your sanity went because he was bound to be a total jerk. Deuce hit it and quit it. Just like that. He didn't even think about the consequences. Kendra had a right to be all sorts of angry and then some. Plus, if a guy ever came waltzing back into your life with the notion that things are going to be the same the way he left it should be made to beg on his knees. Tangling with Ty by Jill Shalvis ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ An Irishman who has tried to distance himself from his horrible beginnings gets the surprise of his life in 1)a long lost half sister and 2)a workaholic doctor who has no time for a man in her life and lives by the mantra of "stay single". Ty Patrick O'Grady has been a drifter throughout his life. After getting taken in by a man he tried to steal from and getting an education, he's moved from place to place; wanderlust in his veins. He's been tapped to renovate the building that Dr. Nicole Mann lives in. Nicole is a child prodigy. Straight A student, graduating early, not really a people person, annoyed by her mother and her perfect sister with the nice house, white picket fence, doting husband and 2.5 children. Ty sends everything she's ever thought about staying single right down the drain. He's funny, sexy as heck and has a sometimes accent. After Ty falls through her ceiling ogling her while she's rocking out in her mismatched underwear, she takes to nursing him. The fall brought out a caring side of her that goes beyond doctor/patient feelings. She forgets what's she's supposed to do and her friends have to help her. Um, she's a doctor for goodness sake! As Nicole nurses Ty back to health, she realizes that there's more to this sometimes accented Irish man. She must decide whether she'll go the way of her friend Suzanne and allow herself to fall in love or follow in the footsteps of her sister in singlehood, Taylor. Meanwhile, Ty is getting mysterious emails from someone claiming to be his long lost half sister. He wants to deny that she might be it but knows that it's a possibility due to his mother's sexual promiscuity. I think I fell in lust with Ty the moment he popped Nicole's door open with a credit card. That's a very handy skill to have. Not that I'm confessing to have knowledge of said skill. He's rough around the edges and only the right woman could make him stay. Nicole staying single didn't seem doable to me. Sure, she pretty much lived by the whole "singlehood is good" thing but puh-lease. The moment a man with an accent takes interest in you (albeit, the accent may fluctuate), get him any way you can. Being single doesn't mean you can't have sex with someone. Being single isn't taking a vow of celibacy. Oh Nicole, you poor girl. You've been looking at singlehood the wrong way. Whatever Reilly Wants by Maureen Child ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Emma Jacobsen and Connor Reilly have been BFFs for a while and so they can shoot the breeze anytime they feel like it. No sexual tension whatsoever. Emma is one of the guys and Connor shares everything with her. A bet between the brothers Reilly already has one brother out of the running of winning a nice sum of money bequeathed by a deceased uncle. Last man standing takes all. One catch: last man standing has to be celibate for three months. Do you know how long that is in guy time? Ages and ages and ages! Brian has gotten back with his ex-wife so that takes him out. Liam has taken vows to the church so he'll probably win considering that he'll be celibate the rest of his life. Aidan and Connor still have a chance at that money, only 2 more months. Emma's father left her Jake's Garage. She works there fixing cars and trying to convince a little old lady to sell her son's (who's been dead for quite some time) '58 Corvette so she can restore it to its former glory. She still has yet to convince her. Emma was hurt by a jerk named Tony who got to know her (cute feminine clothes wearing Emma) and realized that he didn't much like her the way she was (coveralls, car fixing Emma). She vowed to never again let any man in. All it takes is Connor telling Emma that he doesn't see her as a woman but a mechanic to make her go ballistic. She'll show him. Dressed up to the nines in Short Skirt and Tiny Tank Topville, Emma sets out to make Connor lose the bet by getting him in bed. Warnings from Liam and her friend Mary Alice that the plan may backfire only makes her scoff at them. Bad idea Emma! Once the line between friends (especially a guy and a girl) is crossed, there is no turning back. Nothing will be the same again. I guess Emma didn't see Friends with Benefit or No Strings Attached. It can't be done! Nuh-uh. No flipping way. For guys, sex is physical. For girls, it's emotional. You can keep telling yourself that it's only sex but your heart will tell you otherwise. Ah yes, the best friends to lovers trope. This one does it beautifully. I laughed my way through this one. Connor's antics and thoughts after seeing Emma in a short skirt, tiny tank top and heels definitely were all sorts of inappropriate. I loved that Emma had that 'I'll show him!' attitude but wanted to scream at her that she wouldn't come out unscathed by trying to get Connor into bed. I've seen this sort of thing play once or twice before my very eyes. It's not a pretty thing. Either both parties live to laugh about it after falling head over heels in love or both parties become so very bitter that no one is allowed to ever speak the other's name in front of them. Emma didn't have to change herself. She knew who she was and totally confident in herself. Connor should have thought before he spoke. Really? A mechanic instead of a woman? *shakes head* ***review copy from Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Darkness Bound
by
Stella Cameron
romancingrakes
, March 03, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance by Jamie*** I don’t know what I was expecting when I started reading Darkness Bound but what I got wasn’t it… in a good way. I’m going to admit that it through me for a loop but it was a loop that I was happy to be in. Leigh Kelly is moving on after the death of her husband. She quits her job and moves to Chimney Rock, a place that holds special memories for her. She gets a job as the business manger of Gabriel’s bar/restaurant thinking it will be something to get her mind off the past. Niles Latimer, alpha werehound, has other plans for Leigh. He’s determined to have her as a mate and save his pack. Now, Chimney Rock is a small town that has a lot of secrets and isn’t very safe. Women are disappearing for days then coming back missing their memory. Not to mention a turf war between the werehounds and the werewolves. I have to give Leigh credit because I would be out of there after the second night and all the strange things that start happening around her. Good thing Niles is around… and his dog Blue (who I love and if you read you’ll know why). There are a lot of paranormal creatures in Chimney Rock. Not only do you have the werehounds fighting their enemies the werewolves but also there are vampires involved and some Fae who have yet to pick a side. It can get confusing but the way Stella Cameron introduces them makes it’s very easy to keep track of. There is a lot going on so be prepared when you start to read it. And if you do start reading then be prepared to get sucked in to this crazy world. Darkness Bound has a more Urban Fantasy feel then just a normal paranormal romance and I look forward to seeing how this world unravels. Seth, Niles' right hand guy, is probably my favorite character and his book is next which I’m excited about. Plus I want to see what the deal is with Gabriel. There is something mysterious there. ***review copy from Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Sex, Lies and Valentines
by
Tawny Weber
romancingrakes
, February 07, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance*** Whoa! Totally did not see that ending coming. I think it's time for me to hang up my sleuthing magnifying glass and awesome Sherlock hat. This trying to figure out whodunit thing isn't working out for me. The con man is about to get conned into the biggest game of his life---love. Gabriel Black is the youngest of the Black children and he took after his old man not only in looks but in skill. He set out to prove that he could be a greater con man than his father going as far as selling the Golden Gate Bridge to some poor idiot. Danita Cruz does everything by the book until the devilishly handsome Gabriel shows up. She's pulled herself up from absolute poverty and bagging Tobias Black as the man behind the illegal activity in Black Oaks could land her the promotion of a lifetime. All she has to do is act as Gabriel's floozy for hire. Easier said than done. Gabriel is being blackmailed into helping Danita try to catch his father in the act. The surprising news of his big brother Caleb getting married on Valentines day and the pressure from the FBI send him back to the town he tried to stay away from. Caleb is in love and about to marry the woo woo queen's daughter, Maya is happily in love with an FBI agent. Seems like everyone but him has found that special someone. After Gabriel gets an 'in' with the crime ring, he uses his charm, wit and suaveness to get the chosen men to give up some of their secrets as Danita plays his ditzy companion. Danita dressed up in sexy clothing doesn't help the matter and things get heated. But they must stay focused and either find out that Tobias is behind the illegal activity or someone else that Gabriel's known his whole life. As the stakes get higher and their chemistry practically turns into an inferno, Gabriel and Danita must figure out not only who is the kingpin but if they are willing to give in to their sizzling attraction. Forever. A solid finish for this series. Ms. Weber definitely kept me on my toes and totally blindsided me with the ring leader. Yup. That one was a doozy. The instant attraction between Danita and Gabriel had me sucking in my breath and screaming "Just do it already! Bend her over the dresser." Whaaat? Like you wouldn't do the same thing. Gabriel was charming and Danita had me laughing with her witty quips. What a pair. ***review copy provided by author***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Harlequin Blaze #660: Sex, Lies and Midnight
by
Tawny Weber
romancingrakes
, February 06, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Oh that Tawny Weber is quite the writer. Another super sexy read! Poor Maya Black, she sure gets her life turned upside down. First with her brother Caleb calling to let her know he's back in their hometown of Black Oak as interim Sheriff AND he's getting married to the woo woo queen's daughter. Then she gets a call from an ex-best friend alluding to her father getting engaged to a woman his daughter's age. On top of all that, a sexy undercover FBI agent enters her life, using her to get to her family. Not wanting to look like a total loser, Maya needs a super sexy man to bring back to her hometown to prove to queen bitch Lilah Gomez that she's got someone, Maya sets her eyes on a delicious, tall drink of hello handsome! Simon knows that somethings brewing in Black Oak. It's the epicenter of illegal activity and the only way he can get close enough to uncover it is to make nice with Maya. Busting Tobias Black would help his career in so many ways. He'd make his way up the ladder in no time. Little does he know that he's in for the ride of his life. Poor guy. Coming to a mutual decision, Simon would run interference with her family and pretend to be her boyfriend and Maya would find him investors for his new venture, they head off to Black Oak. After Lilah taunts her with texts alluding to the fact that Lilah may become her stepmother, she takes it upon herself to bring her father back to his senses. How is it possible that her father, ex-con artist, current motorcycle garage owner, has succumb to the gaudy charms of a lying, two timing, ex-high school best friend? Someone in Simon's life comes to check up on him as his relationship with Maya becomes all too real. He's physically attracted to her and he's trying to keep it that way but the more time he spends with her, his emotions come in to play. This was not supposed to happen. He was supposed to find pretend to be Maya's boyfriend while fending off town hussy Lilah, spy on Tobias, make the bust and climb up one more rung on that FBI ladder. Maya came home to celebrate her brother's engagement and check up on her father but this southern fried sex muffin going by the name of Simon is a distraction. Heavy lidded stares, electrically charged caresses and sweaty, twisted up sheets are not what she was looking for when she made the deal with Simon. With the appearance of a fellow FBI agent, Simon must choose between his feelings for Maya and whether or not a promotion trumps them. Simon must join forces with the Black family in uncovering who is behind the smuggling of illegal weapons through their father's garage. FAVORITE QUOTE: Breathing deep, mentally breaking down an AK-47 to try and distract his body from embarrassing him, Simon leaned back into the couch cushion. OVERALL: That Black family is quite a hoot. I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I did have to wonder at the sudden attraction between Simon and Maya. Starting with the night that they make a deal to the sudden "I want to touch you" in the car to the breath taking, super heated kisses, this couple has got it bad for each other. The slight touch of danger and mystery surrounding who has been smuggling guns into the town of Black Oak has be eagerly awaiting the final book in the series. This book is sexy. Super sexy. Seriously, who can resist a man undercover? *waggles eyebrows* ***review copy provided by author***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Harlequin Blaze #656: Sex, Lies and Mistletoe
by
Tawny Weber
romancingrakes
, February 06, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Whoa! Hellooo sexy prodigal son biker dude with a chip on his shoulder with a magic hoo-hoo that induces fourteen orgasms in one night. Caleb Black ran wild when he was younger, pulling cons with his father and being a total badass with a reputation with his brother. He got tired of that life and joined the DEA. Before retiring, his friend from the FBI pulls the "owe-me card." Now he must go back to his home town (where his family pretty much runs the town) to find out who is responsible for the spike in drug trafficking. The FBI think it's his father but Caleb swears his old man is out of the business. He's gone straight and is running a bike shop (West Coast choppers style). Pandora Easton has come back to Black Oak to run the New Age store that's slowly failing while her mother is away on a retreat. She's included a cafe where she sells aphrodisiac foods like four-layer Foreplay Chocolate Cake to help drive the sales to save the shop. There's a little something-something in there. The whole town is sexed up with these little morsels of goodness and Pandora gets feedback from the elderly citizens regarding their sex lives. Eww, no thanks. The moment Caleb walks into Moonspun Dreams decked out in a leather jacket and butt hugging jeans, Pandora is physically attracted to him. He's all sorts of yummy and gorgeous but after getting burned by The Ex, she's cautious about who she hooks up with. The Ex was into some sort of shady dealing and she was implicated. Running away from it all, she heads to Black Oak. The attraction is instant between Caleb and Pandora and hotter than the fire blazing in the fireplace during the coldest winter day. Caleb wonders if this woman is involved in something illegal, operating from the back of her shop. After a sizzling, panty melting, doit with your boot on cause you're too far gone night together, Caleb can't believe Pandora has gotten under his skin. His lust meter is sky high and Pandora feels the same. The town gossips have a new rumor to spread and happily do so. The good girl who turned down Sheriff McHottiepants and got together with Biker Bad Boy Caleb Black. As Caleb and Pandora spent more time together, their feelings change. Caleb feels like an Asshole of The First Order for snooping around trying to find any incriminating evidence that would point to Pandora dealing drugs and using her store as a cover. After all, it's full of New Age woo-woo and people have been acting a little off since indulging in all the aphrodisiac-y treats. Pandora can't believe that she's falling for Caleb. Never again, she'd vowed to herself. Caleb must clear his father's name as well as Pandora's while sneaking around making sure no one is the wiser about his intentions. Falling for Pandora only complicates things. He's not meant to feel tingly, sugarplum-y feelings. He's freaking Caleb Black, resident Bad Boy for goodness sake! *snort* Merry Christmas Caleb Black, you've just been hit with the magic of the holidays and her name is Pandora Easton. FAVORITE QUOTE: "Are you looking for a hero?" he asked, mentally rolling his eyes. At the question, because wasn't that what all women were looking for? A mythical guy to sweep them away and make all their dreams come true? And at the idea of him being hero material. OVERALL: A sexy, sizzling, oh my god!, laugh out loud read. A must add to your Christmas romance book reading list. My first Tawny Weber book and let me tell you, I was fanning myself when Pandora and Caleb were getting their aphrodisiac induced sexy on. This is the first of the Undercover Operatives series and I look forward to the other two Black sibling's books. ***review copy provided by Tawny Weber***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Pride & Passion
by
Charlotte Featherstone
romancingrakes
, November 22, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** OH.MY.GOD. I don't even know where to begin in reviewing this book. I've never been left speechless by a book before. Charlotte Featherstone had me floored. Utterly stunned. I read until 2AM. Just amazing. It's been a while since I've cried over a book and this one had me in tears. And don't even get me started on the ending. My jaw dropped, may have heard it pop it dropped so fast. Whyyyy? How am I going to survive until Temptation & Twilight? To be honest, I picked up the book because of its cover. Yes. I'm a cover lover. And I'm not even a big fan of orange but this cover works. Gah! PRIDE: Lady Lucy Ashton is dabbling in the occult trying to find her lost lover. He has captured her heart and enthralled her, only to die in a fire, or so she thinks. The Duke of Sussex, the man she is to be engaged to, brings proof in the form of her handkerchief (which she gave to her lover) as proof that he is still alive. She is determined to find him by any means and has branded Sussex as her enemy. Being a victim of her time and upbringing, Lucy was the only child born to her parents (no heir) so they ignored her. In turn, she learned to close herself off from others. As a child, she had a friend (the butcher's son) who she spent a lot of time with until her father sends him away. He gifts her with a handmade bed for her dolls, which she has kept as a reminder. Now, she cannot seem to get her childhood friend out of her head. There is something hauntingly familiar about the cold grey eyes she saw during her visit to the mystic. Refusing to cave into her father's arrangement of marriage to Sussex, she does everything in her power to dissuade Sussex from marrying her. But as the heavy staring and sultry, thigh clenching words flow and seduce from Sussex's all too kissable mouth do a number to her whole being, Lucy must not allow herself be lured in by that simmering passion underneath the controlled visage of the all too proper duke. She must find her lover and prove to Sussex that the man is not in league with Orpheus. She must also find out why her lover did not let her know he was still alive and she had to find out via her handkerchief that Sussex brought to her. But things take a dangerous and unexpected turn. She must decide whether to go back to her lover or allow Sussex's amorous attentions to grow into something more. PASSION: Lord Adrian York, Duke of Sussex is controlled, scandal-free and on the hunt for the man named Oprheus who has one of the relics that belong to the Brethren Guardians. Under all that control is a secret and a simmering passion for Lucy. He is determined to make Lucy his in every way but to do so, he must convince her that Thomas is the enemy, not him. He's held a tendre for Lucy for quite some time now and he wants her. Badly. But he must keep his passions in check so as not to prove to the ton that he is his father's son. At every turn, Lucy tempts him more and more even though, true to her hair color, she's feisty and fights him every step of the way. His sister and his father's mistress are the only family he's got left, not counting his fellow Brethren. Keeping them safe from Orpheus is at the top of his list after finding the man himself. Both know what Adrian is and they are willing to help him even if it is too dangerous and could pay with their life. He's held a deep dark secret for so long, it could cost him everything and everyone he loves. Pride & Passion: As Lucy gets closer to finding Thomas, Adrian must keep her from harms way even if it means opening up to her about Brethren business and showing her how he really feels. Together they each must set aside their pride and let their passions rule. Only then, can the truth be revealed and releasing their respective emotional burdens. Charlotte Featherstone has created a world of danger, intrigue, betrayal, forgiveness, anticipation, second chances, dark secrets and the occult. Just WOW. Confession: this book started a little slow for me but once the danger escalated, the reigned in passions exploded and jaw dropping secrets were revealed, I turned the pages faster and faster. When I thought I had it figured out, Ms. Featherstone threw a kink in my little dance party. This is a heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, heat pooling low in your belly, holy carp I didn't see that coming! read. You'll laugh, you'll sigh, you'll cry (okay, at least tear up for those of you who are only half human) and you'll curse out loud once it is finished. Or at least break out in a chorus of "whyyyy Charlotte Featherstone, whyyyyy?" At least that's what I did. I do recommend that you start off with the first book of this series: Seduction & Scandal. There's a mystery afoot and you don't want to miss out on anything. ***requested off Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Lord of the Wolfyn Royal House of Shadows 03
by
Jessica Andersen
romancingrakes
, November 15, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Well, what a ride. A magical realm with a prince that looks like the woodsman from Red Riding Hood, shapeshifting wolfyn who enthrall and use women for their own pleasure, some sort of magical roofie, a cop who froze when her partner needed her the most and another realm that must be saved from an evil sorcerer before it's too late. Four days to get back to Castle Island, which sounds like it either belongs in a Super Mario game or a horror flick, once a guide is provided. Some vortex hopping, a little bow chicka wow wow along the trail. Hey! I don't remember that part in Red Riding Hood. Okay, so it's not the Disneyfied version you remember as a child. Once upon a time... in a realm far, far away lived three brothers and a sister with their King father and Queen mother. They were a happy little group. One day, an evil sorcerer decides that it was time to take over the kingdom at the cost of death and destruction. The King and the Queen scatter their children off to different worlds to one day finally get the call to take back the kingdom from the evil sorcerer. Legend has it, once a guide is provided for them, the siblings only have four days to get back to their kingdom. Prince Dayn has spend twenty years in the realm of the wolfyn, spending once a year with a lady wolfyn to satiate his needs as well as hers. It's a mutual arrangement and she is one of two of his only allies in that world. He is a blood drinker a.k.a. vampire but he keeps it hidden from the wolfyn by using Jedi-like mind tricks. Reda Weston is a former cop, freezing when her partner needed her the most. She is in search of a book that her mother gave her as a child. When she finally finds it in a little shop, she realizes it's not another copy of the book her mother gave her but the book, complete with her name inscripted. Opening it up, she flashes back to her childhood and as she stares at the picture of the woodsman, something shifts and she wakes up in a field. Dayn is at first wondering what this human is doing not only to his self control but what in the world she's doing appearing in the realm through a vortex. She couldn't possibly be his guide! Reda recognizes Dayn as the exact replica of the woodsman in her book and thinks she's having a dream. Sorry Reda, no dream, all man. A very hot man. She is immediately attracted to him and he to her, at least physically. It could be the magical roofies. When the wolfyn find out that Dayn isn't one of them but a vampire, they start to close in. With the help of the woman he's been spending once a year with satiating his needs and hers, Reda and Dayn get away. As the path gets more dangerous, the touches get sexier and hotter, and their time together gets shorter as they near the vortex portal, Reda and Dayn must figure out how they really feel about each other and if they are willing to sacrifice anything to remain together. This story surprised me, in a very good way. From the first page until the last, it enthralled me like the wolfyn found within the pages of this story. The world that Jessica Andersen has created with three of her fellow authors is amazing! Dayn and Reda's journey towards the arch that will take them back to their respective worlds is cinematic worthy: the scary woods, the open fields, wide angle shots of the lake and castle as Dayn approaches it, the shifting of the wolfyn into human form and back and the fighting that breaks out. A note for readers: I suggest you read the books in order. I tore into this book like a pack of rabid wolves but was left wanting in the end. I felt like I might have missed something from the previous books but don't know what. I've got Lord of the Abyss from Netgalley loaded on the Kindle and am ready to make that final journey towards an EPIC conclusion. ***requested off Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Desired
by
Nicola Cornick
romancingrakes
, November 14, 2011
Oh man! What a great book. I read the first three books of this series and somehow missed out on Notorious (which I will go back and read when I get a chance) but Desired is my favorite. That Owen Purchase, recently minted Viscount Rothbury, is something else. Tess Darent is the tons scandalously notorious widow. She's racking up husbands like a man collecting mistresses. Husband #1 was her best friend. Husband #2 was an old drunk. Husband #3 did a number on her psyche, verbally, mentally and physically abusing her. She's vowed to never again marry unless the man was impotent and old and very rich. Her outlet is drawing and her political cartoons have the government searching for "Jupiter". They even go to lengths sending in their best man into a brothel searching for this "Jupiter". Owen Purchase, American and inheriting the title of Viscount Rothbury, has come to England to take responsibility in running his title's accounts and lands. Tess Darent intrigues him and he can't help but wonder what the lovely widow is doing swinging from a bed sheet out the window of a brothel he and his men are searching through. She's fascinated him for some time and he doesn't quite believe that Tess is trying to avoid scandal by rappelling out a brothel window. With the threat of scandal over hanging her stepdaughter, Tess must find an upstanding Lord to marry. Someone who is old, impotent and loaded. She is willing to give up all her scandalous activities just to make sure a slimy, toady, lecherous old man doesn't get his hands on her fifteen year old stepdaughter. *shudder* And what better way than to look through a book of the tons most eligible bachelors. Owen talking with her brother-in-law puts an idea into Tess's head. Oh no! Oh, yes! Owen Purchase will be proposed to by one, Teresa Darent. She did propose to each of her past husbands, why not make it a fourth time? Tess proposing intrigues Owen. Neither will back out of the engagement even if it is in name only. Much to Tess's surprise, her new husband isn't impotent as some people have led her to believe. She must stay strong and not let his advances wear down her defenses. Owen knows that something happened to Tess in her last marriage but not what, which makes her uncomfortable with physical touching. Now, Owen must make Tess respectable in the eyes of the ton, keep her from getting discovered as "Jupiter" by making her promise not to draw anymore, find the traitor who is willing to betray Tess for a handsome sum of money and show her that touching is a pleasurable thing. Danger, suspense, betrayal, lies, spies, desire, lust and sacrifice. Whoa! This book hooked me from the first mention of Tess escaping capture by rappelling out a brothel window to the happily ever after on the last page. It always makes my heart ache knowing that the heroine of the story has been abused by a previous husband. The mental barriers are sometimes so great that the hero must tread carefully as not to scare her away at the slightest touch. Owen has a way of making Tess feel safe and stirs something in her that scares her a little. Owen and Tess may have started off trying to push the other as far as the other would be willing to go but as the barriers are slowly taken down, their passion for one another explodes off the pages and not only love but respect blossoms. ***requested off Netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Deliciously Sinful
by
Lilli Feisty
romancingrakes
, November 04, 2011
***original review at Romancing Rakes*** Fill your tub up with ice cubes, sit in it and read this book! Good gracious, holy 9 1/2 Weeks spoon feeding scene Batman! Wow, wow, wow! Jamie from For the Love of Romance was not kidding about Lilli Feisty being a must read author. Where can I get my own Nick Avalon? Heck, I'd settle for any gorgeous yellow Hummer driving, the Le Cordon Bleu graduate, chocolate pudding making, banana flambeing, oyster gathering, orange peeling, dark haired, blue eyed chef with magical hands and mouth and has a tendency for whisking. Throw in a tattoo and I think my knees just turned into jello. The relationship between Nick and Phoebe is hot and cold. Yes, the intimacy is HOT, HOT, HOT! Yet, their feelings towards each other run a little tepid. Nick wants to go back to his life in Los Angeles, Phoebe knows he's not going to stay. Nick's constant voicing of his dislike of the town grates Phoebe but his touch puts fire in her veins and he's panty dropping good looking to boot. At every turn she thinks Nick is trying to one up her: teaching her niece to cook, changing the menu to be a little fancier and even entering brownies in the bake off, of which her families recipe has won for the past 10 years. Since the passing of her parents and sister, Phoebe has thrown herself into organic farming and running the cafe owned by her late aunt and uncle. She is determined to show the community that she can carry on the tradition of baking the best brownies and has the ability to run the cafe with the help of her niece and that guy, Nick Avalon. At first, she doesn't know what to do with Nick but after getting to know him a little better, she finds that there is something simmering under his cocky bad boy image. Nick is just there to re-assess and get his life back together. He's not there to find love or comfort in the arms of an uptight cafe owner. Between taking snark from Phoebe, teaching her niece to cook, showing her how to loosen up behind closed doors and letting the little town and its people grow on him, he's bound to lose his heart along the way. Bad boy, meet good girl and get ready to rock her world with all sorts of foodstuffs. Dear Lilli Feisty, where have you been all my romance book reading life? This book is (I'm borrowing from the title) deliciously sinful, wayyy better than chocolate pudding. It's a sexy, laugh out loud, book gripping, thigh clenching, 'oh my god did I just moan out loud in public?', pupil dilating, heart pounding read with a side of whisking. Sheesh! Who knew whisking could be so hot? I was waiting for the book to go up in flames after reading. Again, where can I get a man like Nick Avalon? Those chefs on the Food Network have nothing on Nick Avalon, nothing I tell you! Oh god, now I'm going to be looking at the likes of Bobby Flay and wonder if he too practices whisking outside of the kitchen. Ahh!!! ***review copy provided by Jihan Antoine at Hatchette Books***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Winter Scandal, 1
by
Candace Camp
romancingrakes
, November 03, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Another holiday themed book and it's starting to get in the holiday spirit. I might even dig out the tree a month early. Thea Bainbridge is an upstanding citizen, a pillar of the community and a giver. She helps her brother prepare his sermons and helps everyone with any problem they have. She puts everyone ahead of herself. Resigned to being on the shelf, she's determined to help her brother with all things pertaining to the church until he decides to take on a wife. Well, life is good and the holiday season has just begun. As she's preparing to set up the nativity scene, she discovers an adorable baby boy abandoned in the manger (how ironic) whom she christens "Matthew". Discovering a pin with the seal of Lord Gabriel Morecombe, she rushes to his home all in a tizzy to rip him a new one. Looking like a woman well tumbled and half crazed, yelling at him in front of his friends, she realizes that may not have been the best way to go about trying to get Morecombe to take responsibility for the child. Morecombe is surprised and somewhat taken by this mad woman who banged down his door with a baby in her arms. He is in full denial until he studies the child, who has the same features as his sister Jocelyn. And thus the search for his sister begins. Morecombe's sister was betrothed to one of his best friends but she ends up running away, breaking the engagement. No one knows why and since then, there's been a rift between Morecombe and Rawdon. As the search for Morecombe's sister commences, he and Thea spend a lot of time together. They both agree that Matthew would be better off with Thea until Morecombe makes his home more kid friendly or if his sister comes back to claim her child. Thea points out, much to Morecombe's frustration, that his sister was afraid to tell him about the baby because of scandal. Between trying to care for Matthew, finding Morecombe's sister, resisting their feelings for each other and discovering Matthew's kidnapper, Thea and Gabriel find that miracles do happen during the holidays. My first Candace Camp book and I think I shall read more. I may be a bit partial to this book since I'm a total sucker to holiday themed books and this one is no different. Thea's 10 year crush on Gabriel and him realizing years too late is heart tugging. Isn't that like any typical man? Only seeing the pretty girls and bypassing the quiet ones. This is a story of love, loss, forgiveness and miracles, wrapped in a neat little bow of holiday magic and sultry kisses. ***book provided by Ayelet Gruenspecht from Pocket Books for review***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Avengers Angel
by
Heather Killough Walden
romancingrakes
, October 29, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Gah! I grabbed this book off of Netgalley and boy howdy! I'm glad I did. This is a new spin on a tale as old as time involving archangels and the fight for good. The 'Old Man's' four favorite archangels: Uriel, Michael, Gabriel and Azrael were given archesses, their soulmates. Something big and nasty went down and their soulmates were tossed to the winds, falling somewhere on earth. This series chronicles their journeys of finding the one woman in all the world, that was made for them. Until then, they must fight against the forces of darkness and other archangels on the same quest as them, trying to prevent them from finding 'The One'. Uriel and his brothers have been wandering the earth for two thousand years trying to find their counterparts. Only then, can they go home (heaven). In present day, Uriel is Christopher Daniels, major movie star, Azriel is a rock star known as the Masked One, Michael is a cop and Gabriel is a firefighter. All my favorite types of yummy men. Oh, and Samael or the Dark Prince or whatever you want to call him, is a media mogul. How appropriate. Yeah, he's a wickedly sexy seductive big bad who looks like he might have a trace of humanity deep down inside. Uriel finds his archess in the bathroom of a bookstore in the middle of some podunk town in Texas, helping a sick little girl. He's drawn to her and immediately knows she's 'The One' and her healing the little girl with just the touch of her hand confirms it. Eleanor Granger can't believe THE Christopher Daniels is in the ladies room hiding from his adoring fans nor can she believe that he asked her to accompany him to an event in Dallas. She's just a bookseller, no one special if you don't count her super ability of healing, moving things with her mind and making the weather change. Samael is also on the hunt for the archesses and wants them for himself. After Uriel finds Eleanor, Samael moves in and knows that with a snap of his fingers, she would be his. Uriel signs a contract with Samael to spend one week with Eleanor to counteract the affects Samael has on her. Well, when you make a deal with the devil, there are hidden clauses when signed in blood. Between keeping Eleanor away from Samael and a new danger closing in, also wanting a piece of the archess, Uriel must convince her that she was made for him. The action is fast paced, the danger is heart pounding, the chemistry sizzles off the pages and there's a TARDIS-like mansion that the archangels live in. This book definitely surprised me, in a very good way. Richard Armitage gets a shout-out, which I spent a good full minute squealing about. And Rockdale, Texas? Really? Wow, wow, wow! This is a series I am looking forward to reading. Between pop culture references, a new spin on the archangel mythology and cinematic worthy fight scenes (like on a Jerry Bruckheimer scale with lots of explosions) comes a story of love, loss and discovery. There's just so much going on in this book and it's totally understandable since it's the beginning of a series, a lot of world building but, it flows so well. A few times I was like 'Where the Sam Heck did this person come from?' or 'Where did this thread start?' but then I had that 'ohhhh' moment and my eyes sped faster down the page and my thumb kept pushing that > button on the side of the Kindle. Could these archangels be the answer to Larissa Ione's Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse? Maybe.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
All About Seduction
by
Katy Madison
romancingrakes
, October 25, 2011
***original extended review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Basically, Caroline has been married for 15 years to Mr. Broadhurst and never once, have they conceived a child. Okay, you're thinking, maybe she's infertile. Nope, Mr. Broadhurst has been married three times and has never once gotten any of his past wives with child. That tells you it's his problem and to top it off, there's suspicion as to what happened to those past wives due to the fact no children were brought forth. He wants her to have a baby with one of her brother's friends but she can't bring herself to seduce any of them. Cue in the dashing Jack Applegate, hurt Mill Worker. They've both been secretly attracted to each other for a while but knew their social differences would not allow the attraction to become more. Denial, thy names are Jack and Caroline. As she nurses him back to health, they both must come to terms with their feelings while her husband keeps pushing her to conceive with one of the men. I'm glad I gave this book a chance. In a time of arranged marriages, gaps in social class and money and bloodlines are a social currency, Jack and Caroline are able to overcome those obstacles towards a HEA. At times, the continuous mention of Caroline not wanting to seduce any of the men made me want to tear my hair out and scream 'Do something about it! Find some dirt on your horrible husband!' As for the social class difference between Caroline and Jack and the constant need to point that out and use it as a barrier, was only delaying their happily ever after. I did feel bad when Broadhurst kicked the bucket and waited for lightning to strike after wishing throughout the book. Okay, but only a little. I will read another book by Ms. Madison. ***review book provided by NetGalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Scandalous Desires Maiden Lane 03
by
Elizabeth Hoyt
romancingrakes
, October 23, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Mickey O'Connor is a homewrecking river pirate with a gasp worthy secret. Silence Hollingbrook is totally devoted to Mary Darling, left on her doorstep for safekeeping, and her work at the Home for Unfortunate Infants and Foundling Children until "Charming" Mickey charges back into her life. Silence hasn't forgiven Mickey for breaking up her marriage. Mickey's enemy, the Vicar of Whitechapel, is out to get those associated with him, meaning his daughter Mary Darling and Silence. Mickey kidnaps Mary Darling and tells Silence the only way she can be with Mary is to stay at his palace. Since that night with Silence, he can't forget her and seems to have developed a slight obsession with her. He wants to possess her body and soul but is unwilling to give anything in return except endless nights of pleasure in his bed. Silence agrees to stay with Mickey but tries to assert her independence by going against everything he wants her to do, starting with not going down to supper with him and his men. Mickey tries to starve her so she will come down for supper but his crew turns against him and smuggle food to Silence. As the days go on, Silence begins to see a different side of Mickey. He's not just the ruthless river pirate but also a broken boy, forced to grow up at a young age without the love of his mother. Silence soon realizes that Charming Mickey has a hold on her. She sees him softening towards Mary Darling and thinks that there may be a future for them. A real future, if only he'll give up his pirating and make money legally. Mickey can't due to his fear of losing it all. He's worked so hard to build his empire, from a poverty stricken boy to a man who has more than what he knows to do with. The Vicar of Whitechapel is closing in and Mickey must make a decision that could change all their lives. There's just so much more I want to say but I don't want to spoil it for you. So many things revealed, I thought I was going to die of shock. *sigh* River pirates FTW! Gah! I am totally floored. Utterly stunned. In typical Elizabeth Hoyt fashion, this book gripped me from the first page until the last. Another fantastic read. My love for Elizabeth Hoyt knows no bounds and this book has made me fall in love with her latest series a little more, in a non-Edward Cullen creepy kind of way. The third book in the series and one step closer to the reveal of the Ghost of St. Giles. Once again, Ms. Hoyt has ensnared, captivated and enthralled me, weaving a wonderful story of love, heartbreak, redemption and forgiveness encased in a fast paced, adrenaline pumping, heart thumping, gut wrenching, tear inducing, gasp worthy plot twists of a read. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series thanks to the titillating morsel of an excerpt at the end of the book. Is it Summer 2012 yet??? ***review copy provided by Brianne Beers of Grand Central Publishing***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Too Wicked to Wed
by
Cara Elliott
romancingrakes
, October 23, 2011
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes*** Holy carp! Lady Alexa Hendrie is my favorite heroine of the week. She's got fire running through her veins, isn't afraid to tell it like it is and can hold her own against the scariest (to most, except his nearest and dearest) rake in all of London, Connor Linsley, the Earl of Killingworth. Connor Linsley, typical man that he is, tends to push others away when they get close. He's guarded and protected his heart (sorry Casey from The Bachelor for stealing your catchphrase) for so long, he doesn't know how to let his barriers down until a hellion and a proper lady at that, storms into his gaming hell to find her brother. Their first kiss sparks something inside both of them. Of course, Connor was trying to teach her a lesson but he might have gotten schooled a little. Alexa doesn't understand her reaction to Connor's kiss and tries to push thoughts of him away. Connor gets robbed, not only at the gaming tables but all the money in the safe. He is short of funds so his friend Gryff loans him the money. In turn, Connor writes an note making Gryff half owner of The Wolf's Lair. And thus the adventure begins... Alexa goes out, dressed like a man, with her cousin, back to Connor's gaming hell. She's got a knack for cards and wins quite a bit of blunt. Gryff is playing at her table and totally soused. He wants to win back what he's lost and the only thing he's got left is the note. Alexa, with Lady Luck on her side, wins the hand. She's not part owner of The Wolf's Lair. Between Connor getting shot, Alexa insisting on taking him to Linsley Close to recover, pretending like they're newlyweds and trying to discover who wants to kill Connor, the sparks fly. Their chemistry is explosive, their passion sizzles off the pages and their banter is off the charts hilarious. Alexa isn't afraid to stand up to Connor who is absolutely taken aback by her fiery spirit. With the help of Gryff and Cam, Connor tracks down the person trying to kill him. Alexa tries not to fall in love with her faux husband yet in the end yields to her feelings. It takes Alexa being kidnapped for Connor to realize she's the one (pfft. Typical man!). To borrow a phrase from Connor, Ye God! What an excitingly fast paced start to a series. The Lords of Midnight (Connor, Gryff and Cam) are deliciously wicked, charming and play off each other like the Three Stooges (only a jillion times more good looking). From the moment Alexa storms into the gaming hell Connor owns, to Linsley Close in the country, back to the rumor filled ballrooms of London, there's a spark waiting to be ignited at every turn, at every touch, at every look and at every word exchanged between the two. Action, adventure, a shot in the dark, a passionate love story, betrayal and kissing (lots of kissing). I am looking forward to what Ms. Elliott has next in store for us aka Gryff's story. ***review copy provided by J. Antoine at Hatchette Books***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Making of a Duchess
by
Shana Galen
romancingrakes
, October 20, 2011
***review originally posted at Romancing Rakes*** The first book in The Sons of the Revolution series and it's definitely a keeper. Ms. Galen has a way with throwing the reader into the midst of the action from the very first page. As Julien and his mother tried to get away from the burning barn, I could almost smell the smoke, hear the angry voices of the peasants and feel Julien's adrenaline and fear spike. Oh, the smoke might've just been from my candle but hey, it set the mood. While reading, I may have jumped a few times due to the thumping noises made by my neighbors as I was reading a suspenseful scene. My heart went out to Julien as he lost his father, his home and his family, except for his mother, at such a young age. He never for once, believed his brothers were dead and has never stopped looking for them; his mother has given up hope. The search for his brothers has been brought to the attention of the Foreign Office. Enter the lovely, orphaned governess Sarah Smith. She's never had a real family, she was left on the steps of the Academy. She takes a position as governess to one, Lord Northrop. He coerces her into acting a spy. She becomes Serafina Artois, the daughter of family friends. Sarah is instructed by Northrop to find evidence that Julien is selling national secrets. She is not allowed to return to her post as governess until she does so. As Sarah gets closer to the truth, she must join forces with Julien to help find his brother while trying not to get killed. Julien isn't a fan of Serafina, unlike his mother. She's refused his marriage proposal twice even though their families wanted them engaged. His friend Rigby even brings up that Serafina doesn't speak much Italian even though her family's been living in Italy. There's just so much about Serafina that intrigues Julien but after finding her several times poking around his study, he gets suspicious. After finding out that Sarah isn't really Serafina, Julien tries to keep his distance but well, he's a man, she's pretty and he won't be able to stay away for long. While trying to get out of the country to find Armand, his brother, Julien must keep Sarah safe. Their journey to France not only brings them closer, but they both soon realize that station didn't matter if they were meant to be together. After all, his mother wants him to be happy and Sarah makes him happy. I went backwards reading this series. I started off with The Making of a Gentleman so there was a spoiler or two. No matter, this book had me wanting to know how Sarah and Julien overcame their differences and problems to a happily ever after. Once again, Ms. Galen has captured my attention from the first page to the last with heart pounding action, adrenaline inducing danger, gasp worthy plot twists, and book gripping and spine breaking worthy seduction. I am looking forward to the last book in the series. ***book won from Rants-n-Scribbles blog hop giveaway***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Novel Seduction
by
Gwyn Cready
romancingrakes
, October 19, 2011
***original extended review posted at Romancing Rakes*** From the moment I read this: "Romance Novels: Publishing's Answer to Farmville", I fell in love with this book. Ellery Sharpe is a bookish snob. She thinks romance books are utter drivel and trash but after ripping the head of the most successful romance publishing company Bettina Moore a new one, her editor isn't too happy (as in he's sleeping with her. Men!). This book is not only an ode to Diana Gabaldon's OUTLANDER but to the romance genre in general. It is like the kitchen sink of romance books. Almost everything you find in your categorized romance books, you'll find it in this one. This book has everything: opposite personalities, the bff there for the comic relief, the sister who helps and doesn't hinder the story, the slimy asshat of a guy bent on winning no matter the cost, the whiny mean girl, a road trip (okay, country hopping), a hero who has a secret which the heroine assumes the worst, a heroine who has a secret which cost her the man she loved, a story of second chances, a secret baby, men in kilts, a rowdy bar, readers split into Team [insert character name here] or Team [insert opposing character name here] (you know which books I'm talking about), hilarious secondary characters and the list goes on and on. Now I finally want to crack the spine on OUTLANDER er, at least pull it up on the Kindle, to see what I'm missing. Yes, Gwyn Cready has made me see the light. Gwyn Cready's writing is sharp, witty, entertaining, laugh-out-loud until you cry and slightly pee in your pants funny (not that I'm admitting to the last part), very refreshing and pegs the thoughts of non-romance book readers that I know. The interaction between Ellery and Axel is explosive yet sweet and fun. The banter between the two had me snorting and getting weird looks from strangers. (I swear I have got to stop reading romance books in public.) It was quite the journey watching Ellery go from romance book skeptic to slightly confused as to why she's got feelings about Jemmie and Cara to fully embracing the genre. Would it be blasphemous to say that this book is my KILTLANDER? ***book provided by Ayelet Gruenspecht from Pocket Books for review***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Every Scandalous Secret
by
Gayle Callen
romancingrakes
, October 15, 2011
This is the first Gayle Callen book I've read and I liked it. Quite a bit. Apparently, Leo and Susanna's story timeline parallels with that of Julian and Rebecca (In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady) and Elizabeth and Peter (A Most Scandalous Engagement). Backstory: Sisters Susanna and Rebecca Leland and their cousin, Elizabeth Cabot, sneak into a well known London gentlemen's club in order to steal a painting of a nude lady. They get caught by three gentlemen friends; Julian Delane, Peter Derby and Leo Wade. In a drunken wager, the gentlemen will find out which lady is the model. The ladies will try to keep the gentlemen from finding out. Whichever group wins, gets the painting as the prize. Let the games of seduction begin! Leo Wade is determined to seduce the truth from Susanna Leland as to who that nude model is. Easier said, than done. Susanna is determined to keep Leo from finding out the truth so she leaves town to attend a house party. Of course, this is bound to lead to something disastrously delicious and sexy. Leo is easy going, a total people person and very charming. Susanna is a bluestocking through and through. She reads, she paints, she works along side her father, and she's a wallflower. But hey, opposites attract right? In this book, yes they do. The attraction between the two characters is apparent to quite a few people at the house party. Susanna spends her time teaching the ladies how to paint while Leo does a lot of heaving staring in her direction. She knows she must keep the secret safe but Leo is slowly chipping away at her defenses. After almost getting compromised by Leo, she throws those defenses back up. They are forced to marry at Gretna Green due to the fact someone saw them getting cozy behind the couch. Both the journey back to London and the journey of getting to know each other is riddled with insecurities, passion and discovery. Leo and Susanna had me laughing and snorting out loud at their antics. My heart ached for Leo as he was trying to woo Susanna, and I felt for Susanna as she tried to keep Leo at a distance, all the while slowly falling for him. Oh that Leo Wade. I'm going to add him to my ever growing hero harem. He's just so easy to love. The beginning was a little slow for me but once Leo compromised Susanna, it picked up. Three things I enjoyed about this book: 1)the banter between the characters had be laughing, 2)Leo and Susanna trying to get to know each other after getting married, and 3)the anticipation for when "the moment was right". Ms. Callen definitely caught my attention with a few gasp worthy moments. I will definitely read another book by Ms. Callen. ***PDF provided by Jessie Edwards at HarperCollins for Gayle Callen's book tour with Goddess Fish.***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Real Men Will
by
Victoria Dahl
romancingrakes
, October 15, 2011
OH. MY. GOD. Victoria Dahl you are my new contemporary genre goddess. Eric Donovan became a father figure and brewery owner at 24 years old due to the death of his parents. He's had to deal with bad boy brother Jamie's constant screw ups and sheltering sweet baby sister Tessa all the while running a brewery on his own. Taking on these responsibilities at such a young age had finally taken its toll and begins to make Eric question who he really is. His siblings no longer need him, they're in steady relationships and had grown into their responsibilities at the brewery. Beth Cantrell is the owner of The White Orchid, an upscale lingerie and sex toys boutique. For the past six months, all she can think about is Jamie Donovan and the things he did to her with his mouth, his hands and other parts of his body. Sure, she's been with other guys since then but, Jamie keeps creeping back into her thoughts. A night out at Donovan's brings her face to face with the man she can't seem to forget, although leaves her a little confused because a different Jamie Donovan is pointed out to her. Well, turns out Jamie Donovan isn't the man Beth met at the conference six months ago but Eric, the older, uptight brother. Between Eric's lying, her strained relationship with her father due to a mistake from the past and anxiously waiting for the return of her friend and owner of The White Orchid, Beth must figure out who she is and what she wants. Eric knows he lied to Beth about his name but he swears that's the only thing he lied about. Not really a good way to start to gain her trust. Their physical relationship is scorching hot! I was waiting for my Kindle to start melting in my hands. Beth's big reveal of her secret shocked me and her inner turmoil of whether to tell her father what she really does for a living or not, had me chanting under my breath--'Do it. Do it. Do it.' Of course, I chanted that as well right before Eric and Beth got touchy feely. Each book in the Donovan Brothers Brewery trilogy has gotten hotter and hotter. Tessa's (GOOD GIRLS DON'T) was hot, Jamie's (BAD BOYS DO) was hotter, and Eric's (REAL MEN WILL) was a complete scorcher. I had to put it down several times to fan myself and run out on the balcony since the weather has cooled down a bit. My cheeks were flushed, I may have gripped my Kindle to the point of almost breaking it, twice and I sobbed like a baby at the heart to hearts, of which I will not divulge. Also, I may have screamed "Sarsaparilla!" a few times while reading this book. I swear, you need a safe word or something when indulging in a Victoria Dahl book. I mean it's a good thing. The smexing was hel-lo! A perfect ending to a five hearts trilogy (I rated each book with 5 purple hearts.) Now I'm itching for more V.Dahl books. *sigh* ***review copy provided by NetGalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Vampire for Christmas
by
Laurie London, Michele Hauf, Caridad Pineiro
romancingrakes
, October 14, 2011
"ENCHANTED BY BLOOD" by Laurie London The vampire and the party planner. Trace Westfalen fell in love with Charlotte Grant last Christmas. Due to a traumatic discovery of "his kind", he wipes Charlotte's memory. Fate steps in and gives them a second chance at love. The chemistry between Trace and Charlotte sizzled off the pages and their "reunion" is as heady as spiced cider with a splash of rum. "MONSTERS DON'T DO CHRISTMAS"by Michele Hauf The vampire and the pop star. Daniel Harrison had it all: money, shiny toys and a stellar career, until he was turned into a vampire. Olivia Adorata has it all: money, fame and no privacy but only wants to be "normal". This Christmas will bring these two together to find out that no matter what type of monster you are, monsters need love too. This is a Christmas story that will warm your heart, make your toes tingle and make you believe that risks are worth taking. "WHEN HERALD ANGELS SING" by Caridad Pineiro The vampire and guardian angel. Angelina, a guardian angel, was sent to Earth to save Damien's soul but continues to fail. Damien can't forget the two reincarnations of Angelina. This Christmas, the vampire and the guardian angel must over come the man hell bent on claiming Damien's soul for eternity. This is a heartbreaking story of love, sacrifice, forgiveness and redemption. "ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS" by Alexis Morgan The vampire and the diner owner. Eagan McHale is an undercover cop and to top it off, he's a vampire. Della Breit is a soft hearted, giving diner owner and puts others before herself. Eagan is investigating the disappearances of teenagers and what better way to keep an eye on the area than volunteering his Christmas decoration hanging skills? This story made me smile all the while eyeing my glitter glue, iron on letters, puffy paint and hot glue gun. Why you ask? Della is constantly wearing Christmas themed shirts. From the first line until the last, I laughed, sighed and felt the spirit of the season shine through the pages of this story. ***Review copy provided by Laurie London. Please note that the author providing the review copy DID NOT sway rating. I am a fan of Christmas themed book.***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
The Making of a Gentleman
by
Shana Galen
romancingrakes
, October 07, 2011
This is the second book in The Sons of Revolution series. It's in typical Shana Galen fashion: adrenaline pumping danger, a handsome hero, a headstrong heroine, an air of mystery, a touch of intrigue and toe curling smexing. A must read. Top Reasons to Read This Book: Silent, brooding, sexy, virgin hero with a dangerous past? Check. Pianoforte playing, marriage contract breaking, fall for her charge governess heroine? Check. Overprotective older brother? Check. Man claiming to be the husband of the heroine? Check. Bad guys who want the treasure that only the hero knows where it's at? Check and check. Armand Harcourt had been locked away in a French prison, forgotten until his brother Julien (hero of The Making of A Duchess) breaks him out and brings him home to England. Armand shies away from touch because it is too painful and refuses to speak because it could cause trouble. He's determined to stay mute to keep his family safe from those who might find out that he alone, is the keeper of a 12 year old secret. His family wants to help him learn to become a functioning member of society and decide to hire a governess to teach him. Enter Felicity Bennett, bent on repaying back the man her father sold her into marriage to. She takes up the position of governess and to her surprise, she would not be teaching a child but a grown man who somewhat frightens yet intrigues her with his behavior. She is determined to earn the money but the man shows up and demands the payment soon or the family will find out she is betrothed. Felicity has a penchant for playing the pianoforte and can play a tune, only hearing it a time or two. Her music soothes the beast in Armand. Felicity sees two strange men digging in the gardens and this ushers in the heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, knuckle clutching events into motion. Armand soon realizes that those men are after him and the only way he can keep his family and Felicity safe is by staying up all night guarding their home. His family and Felicity want him to come clean with the secret and at first he denies any knowledge of the treasure. All the while, Armand begins to talk, a word here, a phrase there. Felicity begins to see Armand as more than a pupil. His touch, his gaze, his presence does something to her. She know she must not lose sight of why she's there: the money to pay back Charles, the man her father sold her to. But with Armand, everything seems right with the world even if two treasure hungry men and one slimy wannabe dandy are after them. Oh, and virgin hero alert! This book was sweet, sensual and tinged with danger. A fun, fast paced, heart pounding read. I will have to go back and read The Making of a Duchess since snippets of Julien and Sarah in this book have made me curious of their love story. Ms. Galen has a way with words. She makes the hero and heroine likeable and the villians boo-worthy. After reading this, I realized it's my first virgin hero book. What a difference in the storytelling when it comes to The Sexiness. ***I won 3 copies of this book from giveaways***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
A Midnight Dance
by
Lila Dipasqua
romancingrakes
, September 29, 2011
OMG y'all. This book is HOT, HOT, HOT. I can hear Charles Perrault turning in his grave. Good heavens! Like Sabine trying to describe the hotness of Jules while he was bathing, there are no adequate words to describe this book. Like Jules reading the first sentence of Sabine's journal, I was ensnared. Like the chemistry between Jules and Sabine, this book was bliss. This is Cinderella like you've never had it re-told before. Yes, there's still a glass slipper. Yes, there is still a Prince Charming. Yes, there are still stepsisters and a stepmother figure. Yes, there is still a Cinderella. Yes, there is still a dead father who leaves his daughter in the hands of the stepmother. Yes, there is still a fairy godmother figure of sorts. Yes, there is still a ball. But that is where the similarities end. I'm sure Cinderella *whispers* did it with Prince Charming after they were wed. But boy oh boy, there's smexing not even 50 pages in and can I just say I was gripping my book so tightly, my knuckles cracked a few times. Oy! Lushly erotic? ABSOLUTELY! Heartbreaking? YES! Romantic? OH MY STARS, yes! Not like that Disney version with the singing and dancing and weird woodland creatures? Thank goodness it's not. This book is a thigh clenching, heart pounding, adrenaline rushing, "did I just moan out loud?" inducing, toe curling, hand gripping book and almost breaking the spine, unputdownable, stay up all night read. Didja get all that? Yes, A MIDNIGHT DANCE was all those things. Pure magic. Well done, Ms. DiPasqua. ***I won this book from Operation Auction***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Mistress By Mistake
by
Maggie Robinson
romancingrakes
, September 27, 2011
Well, the second read through of this book was more satisfying than the first. There were things I remembered and things I missed. Of course I knew who the crazy was but even on the second read through, I still cringed at the way she acted. Charlotte "Charlie" Fallon has rushed to London, afraid that her baby sister has taken ill. Wrong. Her sister Deborah, the most sought after courtesan in all of London, has decided to run away with the third son of an earl, and intends to have Charlotte take her place as new mistress to one, Sir Michael Xavier Bayard. Of course Charlotte, ever the proper lady, decides to straighten everything out with Bay the morning after Deborah runs off. Cue in the sinfully delicious Sir Michel Xavier Bayard. He arrives in the dead of night, after spending a month away being with his grandmother before she passes and making funeral arrangements. Bay can no longer wait to take Deborah so, upon his arrival at the Jane Street house, he crawls into bed with her. She's not what he expected. Well, duh! It's Charlotte, not Deb. But he doesn't know that. Charlotte wakes up to Bay trying to make love to her and screams. Well, you would too if a stranger was sucking on your nipples and you're somewhat aroused by it. Charlotte tries to explain to Bay what happened and how she came to be in his bed. Turns out, Deborah stole a necklace that belonged to Bay's deceased grandmother. Until the necklace is returned, Charlotte must take Deborah's place as Bay's mistress. Eep! And the story gets crazy. Charlotte is physically attracted to Bay. I mean, who wouldn't be? He's got magic fingers, lips, [insert body part here-- yes, even THAT body part]. They carry on a very steamy relationship while trying to deny their attraction. Pfft. We know how well that will turn out. Bay has a man looking for Deborah, he's got a fantastic sexual relationship with Charlotte, then his crazy ex-wife blows into town and all hell breaks loose. She's a total looney. Apparently she was married to some other man who they thought dead, then he comes back so that makes her marriage to Bay null. Got that so far? Bay is still semi-head over heels in love with her which turns him into a drinking fool. Sheesh! Men! Now the ex-wife wants to get back together and have a baby with him. Then Charlotte and Bay fight, she turns into a watering pot, she destroys property (okay, those cherub figurines are pretty ugly and quite creepy), and in the middle of it all, Bay gets kidnapped. I fell in love with both Charlotte and Bay the second time around. There were scenes I'd forgotten about and scenes forever imprinted in my memory. I must say that Ms. Robinson writes like her hero, Bay. It is pure poetry, meant to seduce, titillate, excite and ensnare the reader from the first chapter until the last. I'd forgotten how hot Maggie Robinson can be, just ask my Kindle. The creaking was audible as I gripped it tightly, my heart racing, my toes curling as I sighed from the sexual chemistry between Bay and Charlotte. It's almost like a soap opera, complete with mistaken identity, kidnapping, crazy ex-wife, expert lover hero, self conscious heroine, and a floozy of a sister who ends up being content with someone you didn't expect. Oh, and a few plot twists. Ms. Robinson, I'll be putting the rest of the series on The List. ***Kindle free reads on 10/31/2010***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Bad Boys Do
by
Victoria Dahl
romancingrakes
, September 19, 2011
Previously in GOOD GIRLS DON'T, we meet Jamie Donovan who has completely screwed up. He slept with the daughter of the man that the brewery was planning on doing business with and on top of that, the woman he slept with steals the security code so her brother could break in to the brewery to steal sensitive information. Jamie has a rocky relationship with his brother Eric and still thinks of his sister, Tessa, as an innocent little girl. All his life, he's felt like a no-good screw up and finally wants to be more than the bad boy who the ladies swoon over when he's wearing his kilt. He's ready to take on more responsibility at the brewery besides being bartender, server and 1/3 owner, and he's got a plan. A really good one. He secretly takes a class on food and beverage management to help him with his plan. Olivia Bishop doesn't know what fun is. You wouldn't either if you were married to some stuck up tenure chasing professor. Of course, Olivia is no longer married to Victor who she walked in on going at it with a student. Yikes! She's ready to discover who the real Olivia is and well, learning to have fun with Jamie seems like a good way to start. In exchange for Jamie teaching Olivia how to have fun, she would help him with his plan to expand the brewery into a brewpub. And cue in the bow chicka wow wow music. Insert hot for teacher joke here. Olivia and Jamie enter into a deliciously hot sexual relationship (hello mirror!) and must deal with creepy, possessive ex-husband Victor, Olivia's insecurity about her age and Jamie's volatile relationship regarding the expansion of the brewery with Eric while trying to deny their growing emotional attraction to each other and pfft-ing it off as hot and heavy sexual attraction. Didja get all that? Tessa's book (GOOD GIRLS DON'T) was pretty hot but Jamie's book (BAD BOYS DO) was hotter. I'm sure Eric's will be the hottest. Ms. Dahl makes me smile every time I read one of her books and BAD BOYS DO is no different. I like love lust Jamie Donovan. He's a bad boy with a good heart. (Wait, is that like a hooker with a heart of gold?) Anyway, this hot for teacher, older woman/younger man story is well done. Okay, hot for instructor if you want to get technical. Olivia sort of annoyed me when she kept emphasizing on their age difference but I grew to like her. This book is sexy, funny and heart warming at times. P.S. I wanted to punch Victor in the face and may have cheered when Jamie did. :) ***requested off of netgalley***
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Romancing the Countess
by
Ashley March
romancingrakes
, September 12, 2011
So, the power went out while I was reading this book and I finished it by candlelight. Yes, it was that AMAZING! There's just so much I want to say about this book but don't want to give spoilers. Gah! Sebastian Madinger is devoted to his wife and is ignorant to the fact that his best friend and wife are lovers. He sees her as a doting mother, a devoted wife and the paragon of virtue. Leah George has been living with the secret of her husband and Sebastian's wife as lovers, for a year. She has withdrawn into herself, allowing Ian to still make love to her (as a way to repent for his infidelity) and plasters on a smile while in polite company to hide the breakdown of their marriage. Ian (Sebastian's best friend and Leah's husband) and Angela (Sebastian's wife) die in a carriage accident as they're running away together. This is a shock to Sebastian and a relief of sorts to Leah. Both end up dealing with the deaths differently. Leah decides to host a house party only four months into the mourning period in which she invites acquaintances of Ian (who don't know him that well). Scandalous! But it's in Ian's honor, of course. Well, Sebastian doesn't approve of that and thinks that people will find out that their spouses were lovers, and this would affect his son Henry. He also begins to questions Henry's legitimacy due to the fact Ian and Angela had been carrying on an affair for nearly two years. The attraction grows between Leah and Sebastian during the house party but both are unwilling to completely own up to their feelings. Of course, Leah's in laws hear about this, turn her out and she must go back to living with her family. Her mother (always finding fault with Leah) pushes her to marry soon or leave. Leah chooses to leave and find work. Cue in the dashing Sebastian to the rescue. He's pretty much desired Leah since the house party and well, she's down and out. Leah refuses to give up her independence and Sebastian makes a deal with her. They'd be married in name only (good luck with a lifetime of celibacy and fidelity). Fat lot of good this will do. You know they're going to eventually own up to their attraction to each other and *whisper* do it. Oh that Ashley March. From the first chapter until the last, I fell in love with not only the story but with Sebastian and Leah. Okay, mostly with Sebastian but can you blame me? "But I can promise you that I will continue to desire you, to imagine making love to you, no matter what you decide." Hel-lo! Before picking up this book I thought-- how can two people, whose spouses were lovers, end up falling in love with each other? Ms. March answers that question beautifully. I laughed, I loved and I like the fact that Henry, Sebastian and Angela's son, was not used as a filler, but incorporated into the story to help Sebastian and Leah's relationship along. And Ms. March, this is your sexiest book yet. I found myself sighing quite a bit. Well done, Ms. March, well done.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Lord & Lady Spy
by
Shana Galen
romancingrakes
, September 11, 2011
Who really is Sophia Galloway? Is she the super spy that goes by Agent Saint or the mousy, bespeckled, drab looking Lady Smythe? Who really is Adrian Galloway? Is he the Barbican group's greatest spy or the never at home, always on the go Lord Smythe? The answers to these questions can be found in Shana Galen's LORD AND LADY SPY. Since day one of their marriage, Adrian and Sophia have done their own thing and spent time together when necessary. Now that the war is over, they both must go back to their mundane lives. Which, for spies isn't a good thing. What does one do to occupy the time when there is no longer a traitor to bring to justice or a continent to canvas? One could try gardening or golf if the urge arises. For Adrian and Sophia, that is not the case. They're itching to do something, anything to not go back to that life of "hello" "how do you do" "goodnight". How do two retired spies get back into the game after the Napoleonic wars? Answer: Solve the murder of the prime minister's half brother. There is only one position in the Barbican group (which said spies worked for) and to be reinstated, the spy who solves the murder and finds the murderer will get the coveted spot. Game on! As they get closer to the answer, Sophia and Adrian must put their differences aside and work as a team to solve this case while dodging thugs, stealing carriages, fighting their growing attraction to each other and coming to terms with the heart wrenching miscarriages that Sophia suffered through while Adrian looked on, not knowing how to comfort her. Once again, Ms. Galen has captured me from the first chapter until the last with her captivating mix of intrigue, sexiness (if you don't consider doing the sexy against an open window then I don't know what is) and fast paced storytelling. She made me care for the hero and heroine, although at times I wanted to shake each of them and scream "fall in love already!", and loudly boo the villains trying to kill Adrian and Sophia. My adrenaline spiked, my heart raced, my shoulders shook with laughter and my eyes glinted with unshed tears for Sophia and Adrian's loss (I couldn't just fall apart in front of random strangers at Starbucks now, could I?). If this had been made into a movie, it would have gotten a rousing stand of ovation at the end. Well done, Ms. Galen.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Eternal Rider Lords of Deliverance 01
by
Larissa Ione
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Unholy mother of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, this book was AMAZEBALLS! From the first page until the last, I got sucked into this world full of battles, tons of testosterone, fiery and feisty females, Unfallen angels worshiping a succubus, super secret demon fight squads, and hot Horsemen trying to keep the world from the brink of Armageddon. Oh yeah, and the world will end if another Horseman's Seal breaks. If Revelations was this EPIC, I think I would have paid more attention in church.(Blasphemous, I know. But come on! You would've too.) Ms. Ione, you are my new favorite paranormal author. Where have you all my romance book reading life? I cannot wait for the next book in the series. Why must we wait until December? I know what I'm putting on my Christmas wishlist.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Marked Eternal Guardians 01
by
Elisabeth Naughton
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
3 words. Oh. My. gods! Take a pissed off lady Argonaut hell bent on keeping her immortality and ruling Argolea,meddling gods and goddesses, a dying Princess, a super gorgeous Argonaut, a mysterious Misos, and a half human who has the Fate of the world resting on her shoulders, and you've got a recipe for a sexy, sexually charged, dangerous, edge of your seat, unputdownable read. Ms. Naughton, I've been hooked. I'm getting a little tired of vampires, werewolves and fae. It's time to put a spin on Greek mythology. A super sexy, heart pounding, lady bits tingling, heart wrenching rollercoaster ride of a spin. After all, what woman can resist a gorgeous Greek Argonaut. Not me! A fun, sexually charged, edge of your seat, unputdownable romp from the kingdom of the Underworld to the gates of Mount Olympus. This isn't the Greek mythology your high school English teachers have taught you.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
How to Seduce a Scoundrel
by
Vicky Dreiling
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
The book summed up in a limerick that I wrote... (inspired by Hawk and his unfinished limerick) There once was an Earl of Hawkfield Who used humor and wit as a shield He tried to keep up his guard But fell in love with his ward And in the end, they did yield.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Black Ties & Lullabies
by
Jane Graves
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
The first contemporary I ever read (which shall remain nameless) left a bad taste so I basically abandoned this sub-genre. This book had me laughing out loud, sighing, feeling a lump in my throat, a knot in my chest, and cheering Bernie and Jeremy to a HEA. On the back cover of the book, there's a quote by NYT bestselling author, Lori Foster-"Jane Graves will win your heart." Yes, Ms. Foster, I must agree with you.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Darkness Dawns
by
Diane Duvall
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
This book started out a little slow. I had a few WTF moments but after 100 pages, it got better. This is my first book (EVER) with a hero named Roland. An interesting choice. There are still quite a few questions that were left unanswered as of the end of the book. Perhaps the next book will reveal what I have been wanting to know. Favorite Quote: "I don't want to hunt vampires. Though your chauvinistic, autocratic, I'm the man so you'll do as I say attitude may prod me into it." Overall: Another take on the vampire mythos and I love it! It started off with a bang (at least with a shovel to some poor guy's head) but as with any first book in a series, there's world and character building that must take place. So for the first 100 pages, there was a lot of explaining to do. The book whet my appetite for what is to come. Ms. Duvall, I am very much looking forward to what you have in store for your secondary characters.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Good Girls Dont
by
Victoria Dahl
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Hot detective? Check. Fighting brothers? Check. Peace keeping sister? Check. Bi-sexual brew master? Check. Family owned brewery? Check. Use of social media especially awesome tweets by heroine? Ha-larious! Check and double check. Well Ms. Dahl. You've done it again. At least for me. I will be adding the rest of this series to my wish list and in the meantime, I'll be reading your Tumble Creek series. You have quite a way with words and my kind of humor. From the first to the last page, I laughed, giggled, sighed, teared up, lusted after a certain detective and debated with myself as who broke into the brewery. A plot twist indeed. Take a sexy detective, a witty heroine, throw in overprotective brothers and a brewery break in, and you've got a recipe for a laugh out loud, heart tugging, down there tingling, keeper of a book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
In Bed with a Highlander
by
Maya Banks
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Let me start off by saying that I have never read a book by Maya Banks, until now. Go ahead, judge. After coming back from RomCon11, I had a new appreciation for highlanders. Anyway, the ARC was staring at me from my bookshelf. It kept crying my name and I finally gave in. Also contributing to the need to read factor, the ultra fabulous Tessa Dare made the book trailer. How can you not pick up the book after watching? Oh my stars! I need the next book (after reading the teaser in the back) right now. I'd do anything for it, even drop trew. I must say that this book series could totally be made into a movie or an epic TV show. This book had me giggling and sighing, wishing I had my own highlander going alpha when I misbehaved. Ms. Banks has a way with words, placing me inside the story and experiencing all the emotions each character feels whether it is inner or outer turmoil. I laughed, I cried, I may have thrown the book at the wall a few times (courtesy of Ewan and Caelen) but I came back for more.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Harlequin Blaze #618: Should've Been a Cowboy
by
Vicki Lewis Thompson
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Wow, another Vicki Lewis Thompson book. I'm apparently on a cowboy kick. Which is a totally awesome thing. I haven't given cowboys the love that they deserve. The Stetson's, the boots, the tight butt showcasing jeans, the easy access snap button western shirts. *sigh* Ms. Thompson, you've once again made me put the book down and run to take a cold shower. This book, like the last one, is HOT, HOT, HOT! Like melt your panties hot (if panties could melt, edibles don't count). Oh Ms. Thompson, another great, sexy, steamy, unputdownable (except to cool myself off) read. I may be working my way backwards in this series but it's still worth the read. If your summer isn't hot or steamy enough, pick up this book. Get ready to take a cold shower or have your panties melted off. Note of caution: if you read this at the beach, you may have to jump in the ocean to cool off. It was the perfect balance of raw passion and emotionally charged second chances. Ms. Thompson, you've got another winner on your hands.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Embraced by Blood
by
Laurie London
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
There's so much I want to say but I can't be giving you guys spoilers! For everyone who has read BONDED BY BLOOD, you know that Alfonso had turned to the Dark Side centuries ago and this upset his brother, Dominic. For a long time, he did horrible, unspeakable things. He even caused the death of his parents, of which his brother wouldn't forgive him. Only spoiler I'll give you (for those who haven't read the first book) is: Alfonso was a double agent. He helped take down the Overlord and everyone believed he died in the fight. This book picks up a year later. He has decided to atone for his mistakes, starting with recreating the villa in which his family lived in Spain. He still has a thing for Lily and surprise! Lily feels the same. I am a sucker for second chance stories. They say third times that charm, but second chances are worth the wait and the road to HEA is paved with redemption and forgiveness. I really enjoyed this second book in the Sweetblood's series. I cannot wait to see what Ms. London has in store for us readers. I'm looking forward to how Jackson gets his HEA and if Santiago finally finds someone who can reign in his temper and potty mouth. This is a laugh out loud, heart tugging, unputdownable read. For the past 2 days, it became my Sangre Dulce. It called to me, wanting me to dive in and see if old friends from BONDED BY BLOOD surfaced, and if Alfonso receives his much deserved road to redemption with a HEA. Ms. London did NOT disappoint. Oh, and be on the lookout for the gasp worthy moment or two at the end of the book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Rock Hard
by
Olivia Cunning
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
From the night life of Vegas to the quiet beach condo of one Sedric Lionheart (lead singer of the Sinners), this book is a sexy, steamy, voyeuristic, panty dropping romp of a book. It was a fun and easy read. Can't wait for the next book.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Cloudy with a Chance of Marriage
by
Kieran Kramer
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Captain Stephen Arrow, named by Prinny as 1 of 4 Impossible Bachelors, has sold off his commission and taken up his inheritance in a house on Dreare Street, right across from Hodgepodge, the bookstore owned by a certain Miss Jilly Jones. The street is constantly foggy and this contributes to the mood of the people who live on this street. There is a hodgepodge (like that?) of people who live on the street including an artist, a single mother, an angry old lady, a bookseller and her flamboyant friend, and a dashing captain whose friends throw bags of water out of his second story window. Anyway, Jilly has a secret, Stephen wants to fix up his rickety old house and get out of dodge, and the owner of the land that Dreare Street sits on, has raised property taxes. This does not sit well with Jilly so she tries to rally the whole street into coming up with money before the month is over (since payment is due at the end of the month). Of course, a certain diary helped her with this idea: the street shall hold a street fair. This does not sit well with most of the tenants. But then, after some coaxing, they agree. Prinny agrees to come to the fair (after Jilly charms him into it at a ball) and all hell breaks loose. Oops! The people gets the sads again. Then on top of that, they're told that the tax is due 3 days earlier than the original due date. Well, Jilly is determined to raise the funds come hell or high water. Or in this case, fog. Then *queue evil villain music* Jilly's secret is revealed. Stephen feels betrayed. And the game of will they/won't they ensues. And as for the rest, I shall leave you to find out dear reader. Oh Ms. Kramer, I cannot even begin to put into words, even though I did, how much I adore your Impossible Bachelors series. This book had me giggling, stifling laughter in a corner at Starbucks and once again, having to pack up and go home so I could let all my emotions out. It was indeed a roller coaster of emotions while reading this book. I just adore Ms. Kramer's use of quirky humor in her books and her play on words with her book titles set her books apart from the rest. If you haven't read the first two books of the Impossible Bachelors series, get thee to a bookstore. Like now! P.S. I cannot wait for Lumley's book, If You Give A Girl A Viscount (hope there's cookies involved).
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment
Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Dukes Heart
by
Sarah Maclean
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
Once again, Ms. MacLean has given us a wonderful, witty and hotter than hot story with a feisty heroine and a tortured, flip-flopping hero. Simon finally has a woman who will show him that avoiding scandal at all costs is not worth losing those near and dear to you. Juliana meets Simon thrust for thrust (um, take this for what you will) and holds her own not only with him, but with the stuck up, "I'm better than you", whisper-whisper behind my fan, women of the ton. The St. John and Fiori siblings all get their Happily Ever Afters. What a great book to end the "Love by Numbers" series. I can't wait to see what Ms. MacLean has next in store for us readers!
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
(1 of 1 readers found this comment helpful)
report this comment
Enclave
by
Ann Aguirre
romancingrakes
, September 10, 2011
All I can say is WOW! I received this book as a gift and thought I would start it in the evening. I took a peak and somehow lost the rest of my day. (In a good way) Thank you Ms. Ann Aguirre. I haven't read a book set in a post apocalyptic society. Nor have I read YA books in a while. What I liked about this book: 1)Deuce. The book is in her POV. She a strong, fierce and loyal Huntress. She has always lived her life underground and trained to be a Huntress since she was a brat. After getting paired with Fade, an older boy and Hunter, she begins to question whether the Elders in the enclave are keeping things from them. She sticks up for her friend and gets exiled along with Fade. She has the will of a Huntress but the heart of a Breeder. 2)Fade. He comes to the enclave partly starved and slightly feral. He is an outsider so he is never accepted by the people of the enclave. He is mysterious,strong and thoughtful. He always has Deuce's back whether she likes it or not. 3)The subtle hints of a love triangle between Deuce, Fade and Stalker. What book is complete without a bit of a love triangle? 4)The Freaks. Can I say that these zombie-like things gave me nightmares? I can still hear the sound of teeth ripping into flesh. I can still see their claw-like hands, razor sharp teeth dripping with blood, and smell death on their breaths. 5)Movie-like description. As I was reading this book, I could almost see it like a movie playing in my head. (Are you listening Hollywood?) 6)The fight scenes with the Freaks and later the gangers. I haven't read a book that has given me this many short bursts of adrenaline or heart palpitations. Ever. What I didn't like about this book: 1)It left me wanting more. As in, I can't wait for the next book. Overall impression: It seems quite a few romance authors are making their way into YA. Ms. Aguirre being one of them. I have never read any of her other books so this book determines whether or not I'd read another one by Ms. Aguirre. The answer is a resounding YES! This series shows a lot of promise. If you decide to pick up this book, make sure you're not doing anything important. A peek inside this nitty, gritty and dangerous world won't be just a peek, it'll become a whole afternoon. I haven't read any YA books since Twilight and with this book, I am ready to make my way back into the fold. Thank you Ms. Aguirre.
Was this comment helpful? |
Yes
|
No
report this comment