Review: Falling for Gracie

Title: Falling for Gracie
Author: Susan Mallery
Publishing Date: 2005
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: A
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I received this book at the RT Convention 2016.

Falling for Gracie is the second book in the Los Lobos series.  (Come to find out I own the first of the series and hadn't read it.  Ugh!  I hate it when I read books out of order!)  But it didn't really matter too much.  It's just that the characters from the first book are in the second, but the romance is definitely stand alone.  Gracie Landon, a successful cake maker, comes back home after 14 years for her sisters wedding.  When she was a young girl she had this massive crush on the neighborhood bad boy, Riley Whitefield.  She made such a mess of things that her mother sent her a way to live with her Aunt and Uncle.  Gracie has done a lot of growing up since then, however fate keeps throwing her and Riley together again.

I chose to read Falling for Gracie because I wanted something light-hearted and fun to read to take my mind of off things going on in my real life.  I am happy to say that I couldn't have chosen a better book!  Falling for Gracie was just what the doctor ordered!!  It was funny and sweet.  Gracie is such a genuinely nice person and goes out of her way to help her ungrateful sisters.  As Gracie tries to help her sisters it often puts her at a disadvantage and causes her lots of problems.  The thing is, Gracie is really strong.  Even when life beats her down, she doesn't stay down for long. 

It doesn't take Riley long to notice all the wonderful attributes Gracie has.  He is drawn to her positivity and determination and begins to become a better person because of her.  I love that.  He stands up for her when her own family won't.  I adore the ending and how Riley expresses his love for Gracie.  Heart-melting!!  I loved this one!

Review - Kiss an Angel

Title: Kiss an Angel
Author: Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Publishing Date: 1996
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: A+
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: Received a free copy at the 2016 RT convention.

As far as I know, Kiss an Angel is not part of any series by SEP.  Daisy Devreaux's mother was a famous model, with whom her father had a fling with once and never married.  Daisy was raised by her unconventional mother and has lived a life of privilege.  Since her mother's recent death, Daisy has racked up a substantial amount of debt, enough that she could serve jail time.  Her father is willing to pay off Daisy's debts and keep her out of jail as long as she agrees to marry Alex Markov.  Alex owes Daisy's father a debt and Alex always pays his debts.  Alex is tasked with reigning Daisy in and teach her how to grow up and be responsible for once in her life.

As you can see from my rating, I absolutely adored this book!!!  Daisy might just be my favorite heroine ever.  At first you think, oh God, she is going to be a brat.  And this is exactly what Alex assumes, as well, when he meets her.  But actually Daisy nothing like you would think.  She is actually such a sweet caring person you can't help but fall in love with her.  She is very naïve about things and assumes the best of people and that it gets her into trouble.  Right after she marries Alex, he takes her to her new home, which is a run down trailer in a circus.  Yes, that's right.  A circus.

Let me tell you this book had me in stiches.  Some of the exchanges between Alex and Daisy are hilarious.  Daisy gets a few over on Alex every once in a while, but most of the story, Alex is ruling the roost.  Even though at first you think Alex is the stronger character, the reader quickly realizes that Daisy is the stronger one.  SEP always takes her heroines to rock bottom, only to have them strengthen their resolve and face the challenge head on.  Kiss an Angel has so much heart, and laughter and tears.  I loved it.  And this book has to have one of the best grovel scenes I have ever read.  I love, love, loved it!!  What are you waiting for??? Seriously, go and read this book!!

Book Club Review - Memory Man

Title: Memory Man
Author: David Baldacci
Publishing Date: 2015
Genre: General Fiction/Suspense
Rating: A-
Sensuality: N/A
Book Disclosure: July Book Club book, Candy's choice.  Rented from the library.

Memory Man is the first book in the Amos Decker series.  I believe the second book has been released.  I believe this is the first time I have read David Baldacci.  I know. I know.  He is a big powerhouse in the fiction world.  How am I just now reading him?!?!  He happens to be a favorite of a few ladies in my book club.  FYI, I plan to do a separate post on my book club so that you can get to know those ladies.

Back to Memory Man.  Amos Decker is a very unique character.  He was a professional football player and he took a very bad hit on the field.  So bad in fact, that the had to be resuscitated twice by the medical staff.  He survived, but his brain had been altered by the hit.  He is now able to have perfect recall of anything that happens to him.  If he reads a story, he can recall every detail.  Fast forward to present day and Decker is a mess.  He was a detective on the police force whose world shattered when his wife and only child were brutally murdered.  It has been 18 months since their death and no suspects were found.  Out of the blue, a man walks into the police station and confesses to their murder.  Decker doesn't have any recollection of the man but thinks he might be connected to the real killer.

I very much enjoyed Memory Man.  What makes the story so great is the main character, Amos Decker.  He is such an unusual character.  Not just the fact that he can never forget anything, but that he is completely likeable.  He is very humble.  He is big and fat.  He feels like he lost all of himself, first with the football accident and then secondly when he lost his family.  Even thought the mystery takes front and center in the story, really it is also a story about self discovery. 

Amos isn't the only well drawn character.  From his former partner, the chain smoking woman who also has a daughter with down syndrome, to the actual killer - wow totally did not see that one coming, the cast is truly rich and well developed.

Never saw who the murderer was at all.  The mystery was laid out brilliantly and kept me guessing the whole time.

I would say the only negative that I found with the book, was that the author kept explaining Amos's brain condition, as if something like that is difficult to grasp.  Um no, got it after the first time you explained it.  However, the author kind of kept going on and on and on about it. 

This review reflects many of the my own thoughts as well as those of the ladies in the book club.  There were 7 of us there, out of 10, and all of us there liked the story.

Review - River Marked

Title: River Marked
Author: Patricia Briggs
Publishing Date: April 2011
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I purchased a new ebook for my Nook.

River Marked is the 6th book in Patricia Brigg’s Mercy Thompson series. In this installment, Mercy and Adam are on their honeymoon. They are up in the woods of the North West, where a series of mysterious events have left the local authorities puzzled. As you know, where Mercy goes trouble follows. Mercy and Adam find themselves unexpectedly involved in helping with the problems that keep occurring along the river, problems that involve missing or injured people.

River Marked was such a treat for me. I loved that the author takes pity on romance fans and gives them what they want. As fans of Mercy and Adam we get to witness their wedding!!! In most romance novels the books end with the happy ever after and usually that doesn't include the wedding ceremony. In River Marked the reader is actually invited to the wedding. I thought that was a lovely surprise. I also loved that the book was entirely devoted to Mercy and Adam. Pretty much everybody else is absent from this book. While for me that proved to be a good thing, fans of Samuel and Sebastian might be disappointed.

As far as the actual mystery goes, I was really floored at the viciousness of the "bad guy". There is some very serious sh*t going down in this book. It was ugly and unpleasant to read about. I will say one thing for Ms. Briggs, she doesn't shy away from the hard stuff, as readers of this series know. However, there is balance with the good development between Mercy and Adam. This is another fantastic installment in the Mercy Thompson series. Fans will not be disappointed.

Review - Hunger Games

Title: Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publishing Date: 2008
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: A
Sensuality: Kisses
Book Disclosure: I recieved a free copy from a good friend of mine.

Hunger Games is the first book in a trilogy by Suzanne Collins. The book takes place in the future in North America after it has been ravaged by war. What we know as America has been transformed into Panem. In this new world most people are just struggling to survive under this new harsh leadership. Each year two children between the ages of 12 and 18 are selected from each district to participate in a reality based TV show named the Hunger Games. In the Hunger Games the participants have to kill each other and the remaining sole survivor is named the winner. This year Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take the place of her little sister in the Games.

Oh. My. God! This book was incredible. I couldn't put the book down. I was riveted to the pages, on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. This was the book I chose for my book club and the other members I have talked to agree that they couldn't put the book down. As I write this, one other member has already read all three books in this trilogy. She had to know what happened next and I can hardly blame her.

First off, this story is extremely fast paced with a ton of great characters. The book is told in first person by Katniss, a sixteen year old mature beyond her years. A fighter to the core, Katniss will do what it takes to survive without losing her compassion for others. She is a compelling, wonderful heroine that everyone will love.

The Games themselves are very interesting and imaginative. The mood throughout the story is sad and imprisoned but with an underlining layer of hope. I just loved the story. There is a subtle thread of romance throughout the book. I love that Katniss is never sure of her feelings and as readers we get to experience all her thoughts and emotions. The end of Hunger Games leaves with some closure, but it definitely sets the readers up for the next book in the series, which I can't wait to read. This book comes highly recommended!

Review - A Lot Like Love

Title: A Lot Like Love
Author: Julie James
Publishing Date: March 2011
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I purchased a new copy.

Jordan Rhodes, the daughter of a billionaire and the owner of a Chicago wine store has been asked by the FBI to participate in taking down one of Chicago's notorious businessman. The FBI uses Jordan to infiltrate an exclusive charity event where they will have access to a crime syndicate’s office. Only things don't go as smoothly as planned and Jordan and FBI agent Nick McCall spend more time together than they bargained.

Woo hoo!! Julie James does it again!! A Lot Like Love is another brilliant contemporary romance by Ms. Julie James. Jordan and Nick explode onto the pages with their clashing personalities and witty banter. This couple exudes sexual tension. Nick is a hard-nosed cop who exudes testosterone from every pore. Jordan bumps elbows with the socialite crowd of Chicago and knows her way around fine wine. These two are as opposite as they can get and yet the attraction is magnetic.

This is Ms. James first novel where the heroine is not a lawyer. Instead Jordan is an entrepreneur owning her own successful wine store. James rocked her new heroine. I loved all the little snippets about wine and the fun that comes along with owning your own business. There is great dialogue and a slight mystery to the book. I thought this was a really fun read!

Review - Burning Darkness

Title: Burning Darkness
Author: Jaime Rush
Publishing Date: February 2011
Genre: Paranormal
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I received a signed free copy at RT 2011.

Burning Darkness is the 4th full length book in Jaime Rush's Offspring Series. This is Eric Aruda and Fonda Raine's story. Readers first meet Eric in the first book Touching Darkness. Eric Aruda is part of a group of men and women whose parents were part of a government experiment. These people all inherited special powers from their parents. Eric can set people on fire and remote view another person. He meets up with Fonda Raine when she sets up a clandestine meeting with the intent to kill him. She is successful in her intent and instead her and Eric team up when they are attacked by others. Even though Fonda wants to hate Eric, his fierce protectiveness of her eventually leads more than either of them expected.

I have been intrigued by Eric from the first book in the series. Eric is one of those morally ambiguous characters who you aren't quite sure if he is good or bad. He definitely intrigued me and I couldn't wait to see what his character would do next in the series. I have to say that I was NOT disappointed with this book. Burning Darkness lived up to my expectation and so far is the best of the series.

For me this book was all about the hero. I just was totally hung up on Eric. I liked that he is big and bad and ferociously loyal and protective. Sigh. What's not to love? Also, I felt that Burning Darkness focused on the romance much more so than the other books in the series. I love that when Fonda has some hang ups in bed, Eric helps her work through it. For as pushy as Eric can be it is a good thing with Fonda at certain times. Fonda kept Eric guessing half the time too, which made thing interesting.

I think this series is getting better and better. I can't wait to see whose book is next. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.

Review - Match Me if You Can

Title: Match Me if You Can
Author: Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Publication Date: 2009
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I borrowed the audio version from my library.

Match Me if You Can is the sixth book in Susan Elizabeth Phillips' Chicago Stars series. Annabelle Granger is desperate to land Heath Champion as a client for her new match making company, Perfect for You. With such a prestigious client, her new company will be sure to succeed and in doing so will get her family off her back. She is basically the black sheep in the family. Heath Champion is a very well known sports agent who is as ruthless as he is handsome. He is looking for a wife and has unrealistic expectations of the type of woman he is ready to settle down with. Annabelle has her work cut out for her if she is to be successful in finding him his perfect match.

I had a lot of fun listening to Match Me if You Can. First of all the narrator Anna Fields does an excellent job of getting the humor just right. She is able to use really good inflection when delivering those zingers. There is a lot of really great dialogue between Annabelle and Heath. These two go back and forth throughout the book and readers who love a lot of banter between the hero and heroine are going to really enjoy this book.

I loved Annabelle. She is my kind of heroine. She is funny, smart and completely driven and focused. She was a little insecure but it was only a small part of her character. Heath too was an excellent match for her. He is just as driven, funny and smart. He too has his own little insecurities to get over. I thought this was a great read with many memorable scenes. The dialogue is fantastic and is chock full of rich characters. I even found the secondary love story between Portia and Bodey a treat. Two thumbs up. I highly recommend it.

Review - When Beauty Tamed the Beast

Title: When Beauty Tamed the Beast
Author: Eloisa James
Publishing Date: February 2011
Genre: Historical
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I purchased a new copy for my Nook eReader from Barnes and Noble.

When Beauty Tamed the Beast is the second book in Eloisa James Fairy Tale series. *You do not need to have read the first book in the series to read this one.* When Miss Linnet Thryne finds herself utterly and truly ruined, her father and aunt concoct a plan to wed her to Piers Yelverton, Earl of Marchant. Linnet doesn't seem to have much choice in the matter and meekly goes along with her family’s wishes. The only problem is that Piers is one of those very grumpy, cantankerous men and only a truly astonishing woman will be the one to capture his heart. Imagine his surprise to find Linnet on his doorstep with her shining beauty. But that is not the only thing that captures his attention.

Wow. Can I just say, wow!! This book completely blew me away. I loved everything about it. This is my third Eloisa James novel and so far I have loved everything she has written. This may just be my favorite so far. I absolutely adored everything about Linnet and Piers. At first I was a little worried that Linnet wouldn't have what it takes to capture Pier's heart. He is such a beastly man with a horrid temper. His intellect is outstanding and I was worried that Linnet would be to mild mannered for him and that he would walk all over her.

It turns out I was wrong and just needed to let the story unfold at its own pace. The dialogue between Linnet and Piers is fantastic. Ms. James is a master at dry humor and snide witty comments had me in stitches. Then the reader also gets the added bonus of a secondary love story between Pier's parents. I loved that they get a second chance at love. In addition the ending of this story is so completely moving and beautiful. I was up late at night because I could not put the book down. I love the unexpected twist to universal tale of Beauty and the Beast. I highly recommend this one!!! If you have not tried Eloisa James yet, what are you waiting for? This is the perfect place to start!!

Review - Shadowfever

Title: Shadowfever
Author: Karen Marie Moning
Publishing Date: January 2011
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I downloaded an ebook from Barnes & Noble to my Nook.

Shadowfever is the long awaited conclusion to Karen Marie Moning's Fever Series. MacKayla Lane AKA Mac, after the huge cliffhanger in the last installment Dreamfever, is about to finally get answers to all her questions. What did happen to her sister, who is Jerrecho Barrons and more importantly just who is MacKayla Lane and how is she supposed to save the world?

I have been enthusiastically awaiting the release of Shadowfever ever since Dreamfever's release. I am happy to say that the book was able to live up to my lofty expectations. I was a little worried n the beginning when things looked bleak for Mac. I couldn't imagine how Ms. Moning was going to fix the situation in which Mac had found herself. Once things turned around the book really took off for me. It was one revelation after another that kept blowing me away. This book had more twists and turns than the Indy 500. I loved every minute of it.

While I did feel that Mac and Barron's relationship finally came to the place readers have long waited for it to get to, I also was surprised at the way it happened. I thought Barron's would do the taking, but that was not the case. I will refrain from saying more because I do not want to give away anything. Suffice it to say, you will just have to read it yourself.

Shadowfever was a great conclusion to a fantastic series. Ms. Moning left a few questions unanswered and hinted at other books. I am so excited that she has more stories to tell because I definitely am looking forward for more of her Fae magic!

Review - Lady Be Good

Title: Lady Be Good
Author: Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Publishing Date: 1999
Genre: Contemporary
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I purchased a used copy.

Lady Be Good is loosely related to Fancy Pants, another book by the illustrious Susan Elizabeth Phillips, AKA SEP. Kenny Traveler is a professional golfer who has been suspended from playing in tournaments for bad behavior. He is determined to clean up his act and lay low for a while to get back in the good graces of the golf commissioner. He has been asked to chauffeur Lady Emma Wells-Finch around Texas as she does research for a paper. She is the head mistress of a private institution for young ladies in England. She has never been attached to any scandal and is looking to ruin her reputation. Her motivations are complicated. Put Emma and Kenny together and they are fire and ice.

God, I love SEP! Her books entertain me endlessly. Right off the bat, Kenny and Emma both mistake the other. Emma thinks Kenny is just a hot body with no brains and Kenny is struck by Emma's beauty but once she opens her mouth her bossy demeanor has got to go! Kenny loves toying with Emma's serious, straight-laced personality and shaking up her world. Boy does he ever! But don't let Emma fool you, she shakes up Kenny's world and surprises him at every turn. He thinks she is going to react one way, but she never fails to turn the tables.

I really enjoyed this story. Kenny and Emma's characters are great. Kenny is a super, spoiled rich kid with whom nobody has ever really gotten to know. Emma is practically an orphan who has never had a family to call her own. These two manage to find and balance each other out. Emma is the first person to really see Kenny. I love that the major focus of this book is these two characters and their relationship is front and center. Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a master story teller and this is a wonderful read. Fortunately, for those of you who haven't ever had the pleasure of reading her can start with this one. Even though it is loosely connected to Fancy Pants you don't have to have read that one to enjoy Lady Be Good.

Review - Maybe This Time

Title: Maybe This Time
Author: Jennifer Crusie
Publishing Date: September 2010
Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I borrowed a copy from the library.

Andie Miller goes to see her ex-husband North whom she hasn't seen in ten years to ask that he stop sending her alimony checks. After all, she has every single one he has sent over the years and not a single one was ever deposited. But seeing North is a shock to Andie's senses. She can't believe the overwhelming feelings that come rushing back after that brief encounter. Plus, she somehow finds herself the nanny to two unruly children who have recently been orphaned which North now has sole custody. When Andie arrives to whip the children into shape, she realizes it's not the children who are the problem, it’s the unruly ghosts that are haunting the house.

The last Jennifer Crusie book that I read earlier in the year, Wild Ride was a very big disappointment. I really wasn't sure what to expect with Maybe This Time, but I was definitely intrigued by the summary. It turns out that Maybe This Time is a huge score for me and I think fans of Ms. Crusie will delight in this latest release.

Where to begin...the characterization is great. Andie and North just jump off the pages. Andie and North are opposites. Andie is whimsical, flighty, impulsive and fun, whereas North is responsible, organized and serious. We get to see a lot of Andie through North's eyes and vice versa North through Andie's. These characteristic s are what attracted the other, but it is also what eventually drove them apart.

Even though these two aren't together through a lot of the book, we relive their past relationship through flashbacks including how they first met. I think this is the first book with the reconciling couple theme that I have really enjoyed. Ms. Crusie gets it right. This time I really do believe that they can make it work the second time around.

One little odd ball thing that I would like to point out with this book was that there were references to electronics that lead me to believe that this book was written a few years ago. For example, the little girl Alice likes to listen to her Walkman instead of an iPod and also there are references to them watching videos instead of DVDs. It just made the story seem dated. At any rate, this one was a page turner and it worked really well for me.

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Review - A Kiss at Midnight

Title: A Kiss at Midnight
Author: Eloisa James
Publishing Date: August 2010
Genre: Historical
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: Purchased a new copy.

A Kiss at Midnight is the first book in a new series by Eloisa James. Ever since Kate's father died and left everything to her Stepmother, Kate has been relegated to rooms in the attic. Her status is more representative of a servant than that of the actual Lady she is. Her stepsister Victoria is bitten on the lip by her little dog rendering her usual pretty face less than picturesque. Not wanting anything to impede her matchmaking ambitions, Kate's stepmother insists that Kate take Victoria's place at the ball Prince Gabriel is hosting. This meeting with the Prince will ensure Victoria's marriage to his nephew. Although to Kate's distress, the Prince turns his eye to her.

A Kiss at Midnight parallels the popular fairy tale Cinderella. Kate is the dutiful daughter who is tormented by her vain Stepmother and Stepsister. She attends a ball wearing glass slippers, dances with a prince and has a Godmother to make all her dreams come true. It might seem like this book could be farcical and too over the top, but that is not the case at all. It is a beautiful story with tenderness, heart-break, humor and a touching ending.

Eloisa James' writing is clever and poignant. Her characters are all full of verve. Kate never pities her situation and decides to take matters into her own hands to secure a better future for herself. Marianna the infamous Stepmother, while vain and selfish is not eeevil. Victoria is good natured if simple-minded. Gabriel is strong and willful but needs a kick in the pants when it comes to Kate. His half-brother Wick is just the person to do it. Finally, Kate's Godmother Henry is eccentric but not ridiculous. A Kiss at Midnight is a perfectly balanced and wonderful read. Don't miss this book!

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Review - His at Night

Title: His at Night
Author: Sherry Thomas
Publishing Date: May 2010
Genre: Historical
Rating: A-
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I purchased a used copy.

Lord Vere to most of society is a bumbling idiot. Only a select few know he really is a very industrious spy for England. He is on a case where he suspects that Edmund Douglas has nefarious dealings in the diamond industry. Vere and his compatriots invent a scheme to gain them entry into Douglas's home. Douglas's niece Elissande Edgerton sees Lord Vere as an opportunity to get away from her possessive and disturbing Uncle. She takes matters into her own hands and creates a situation that will compromise them both.

His at Night is my first book written by Sherry Thomas. I have heard so many wonderful things about this book and Sherry Thomas in general that I thought this might be a good place to start. I was very glad that I did pick this one up as the writing is just wonderful! I can easily recommend that if you want to read Sherry Thomas, His at Night is a great place to start.

His at Night is a book that drew me into the story that by chapter four when Vere and Ellie meet for the first time I was hard pressed to do anything put keep my nose pressed to the book. Vere and Ellie have created a persona that they hide themselves behind, but they both do it for different reasons. These facades really complicate their budding relationship and become a huge obstacle that they will have to overcome. There really is a lot going on not just in terms of plot but also the complexity between the characters. I actually feel that I could benefit from another reading of the book to pick up every detail.

Sherry Thomas has an amazing capacity to create great characters. Her depiction of Ellie is balanced so well between desperation and strength. It really is a fine line. It would be so easy to hate Ellie, but the way she was written I felt myself understanding her reasons. The same goes for Vere. The role of the bumbling fool could have gotten out of control but Sherry Thomas keeps things from being foolish or farcical. I really enjoyed His at Night. Sherry Thomas writes an entertaining story with intricate characters.

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Review - Infamous

Title: Infamous
Author: Suzanne Brockmann
Publishing Date: August 2010
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I purchased a new book and even had it signed by Ms. Suz herself!

Infamous is a stand alone book. Yay, for those of you who want to try Ms. Brockmann and don't know where to start. I'd definitely recommend starting here.

Alison Carter is a history buff and professor back in Boston. She writes a book centering around a famous gunslinger and sheriff. A famous producer reads her book and makes a movie according to the legend. He hires Allison to be his historical advisor for the movie. While on the set, Allison mistakes A.J. for an extra. While she is reprimanding him for wearing briefs (which were not worn in the Wild West) A.J. has an ulterior motive for wanting to meet Allison. See, his grandfather was the infamous gunslinger the movie represents as a murderer. But A.J is being haunted - I use the term loosely because the grandfather has no malice - but wants A.J to set his story straight. So A.J. travels to the movie set to meet with Allison to share the real story.

I am just going to tell you right now, I absolutely loved everything about this story and I feel like gushing about it. Seriously, Suz absolutely rocks!! I just wish she would write faster, LOL! Fans of Suzanne Brockman will still see her signature style - deep, well developed characters, fantastic dialogue and a fly by the seat of your pants plot. What more could a reader ask for? Lots of passion, well not to worry, Suz delivers there too!

There is a lot going on in this book. You have the present day romance between A.J., a carpenter from Alaska, whose tall and buff and is great with his hands *wiggles eyebrows*. You have Allison who is a no nonsense gal with a winning smile and down-to-earth outlook on life. These two are completely explosive when it comes to chemistry. Hang on dear reader, things aren't so simple. Both come with heavy baggage that must be dealt with before the happy ever after can be achieved. Not to worry, Suz mixes in plenty of light hearted moments to even out those ball-busting ones.

Too make things unique and change things up a bit, a ghost is thrown into the mix. This ghost is not hokie in anyway. It is actually very interesting how Suz tied actual historical accounts from the ghost and his past love through her diary. Then to make things even more on the edge there is a suspense plot that puts Allison's life in danger. Trust me, there is a lot going on, but is all brilliantly concocted. I highly recommend this book to all different kinds of readers - fans of contemporary, romantic suspense, Suzanne Brockmann and westerns won't want to miss out on Infamous.


This book can be purchased in print or kindle format from Amazon

Review - Magic Bleeds

Title: Magic Bleeds
Author: Ilona Andrews
Publishing Date: May 2010
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Rating: A
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: I purchased a new copy.

Magic Bleeds is the fourth book in Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series. Kate Daniels is a mercenary who works for the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, an organization that polices the Magic in the city of Atlanta. Kate goes to investigate a murder that takes place in a border bar frequented by pack and necromancers. Kate encounters a dangerous enemy with the power to control disease. She must put her feelings for Curran the pack leader aside as she tries to hunt down this harbinger of death.

I will admit that it took me a little while to commit to this series. The romance between Kate and Curran was developing a little too slowly for my tastes. I will now gladly eat those words because Magic Bleeds delivered and delivered well even above my high expectations. Slow in this case really works. The build-up was well worth the wait and makes it all the more delicious. Kate and Curran have a lot of problems to overcome if they are to have a successful relationship. I loved that Curran really comes to light in this book. His motivations for why he does the things he does are revealed and the reader gets some back story on Curran.

The world that Andrews has created is complex and terrifying. These creatures that go bump in the night are very powerful. Amazingly enough Kate is able to fight against them and triumph. I found Magic Bleeds to be better balanced between the grimness of situation Kate is trying to fix and the sarcastic humor with how she handles it. Magic Bleeds was funny. I wasn't expecting that. It's always good when a heroine doesn't take herself too seriously and can see the humor in the situation. It lightens things up. This was definitely the best book in the series thus far and one for the keeper shelf.

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This book can be purchased in print or kindle format from Amazon

Review - Married by Morning

Title: Married by Morning
Author: Lisa Kleypas
Publishing Date: June 2010
Genre: Historical
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: I received a used copy from Paperbackswap.

Married by Morning is the fourth book in Lisa Kleypas's Hathaway series. Leo Hathaway and Catherine Marks have been fighting their attraction to each other for a couple of books now. Catherine has been installed as a companion/governess to Beatrice and Poppy Hathaway, Leo's sisters to help them learn the rules of society. Catherine has been hiding from something and been very secretive about her past. She thinks it is soon time for her to leave the Hathaway’s because she might be putting them at risk, however she doesn't want to leave the one family who make her feel like she belongs.

Funny thing about Married by Morning is that I wasn't sure I would like Leo for a hero. He really didn't have all that much appeal in the earlier Hathaway books as he chose the path of debauchery when he lost his childhood sweetheart. So then with having no expectations other than a good read by Ms. Kleypas, I found myself really enjoying Leo's transformation in Married by Moring.

The main appeals were the delightful scenes between Catherine and Leo that exercised their wit. I think my favorite would be when Leo demonstrated to Catherine how kissing can make a person lose their intelligence. He would kiss her and then ask her to solve a riddle. Because she couldn't answer correctly she'd make him ask another question. Of course, Leo would have to kiss her first before he could ask her another question.

There were several cute scenes like that and it amazes me how Ms. Kleypas makes them all seem so effortless. The pacing is great, the characters are wonderful. Even the little ferret drew me in. I can't help but be enchanted with Married by Morning.

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Review - Tales of the Otherworld

Title: Tales of the Otherworld
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Publishing Date: May 2010
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Rating: A
Sensuality: Warm
Book Disclosure: Borrowed from the library.

Tales of the Otherworld is a collection of short stories by Kelley Armstrong. These stories are a part of Kelley's Otherworld series. I am going to review this collection of stories as one book, instead of reviewing the individual stories. Each story pretty well ties into each other and it will just be easier for me to give an overall review.

I absolutely loved Tales of the Otherworld, if for no other reason than it had the story of how Clay and Elena met. For those readers who are familiar with Ms. Armstrong's series, will know exactly what I am talking about. For those of you who don't, go out and read Bitten, the first book in the series and you will be as hooked as the rest of us! Aside from Clay and Elena's story, there is also the story of how Eve and Kristof met and it has a story of Lucas and Paige investigating a murder that may have been done by a vampire.

Kelley Armstrong is such a fantastic writer. Her characters are fully fleshed out and she has a way of making the reader really connect with them. It doesn't matter which character I am reading about, I am 100% involved in them and their plight. She makes her characters seem so human, with problems and emotions that everybody has experienced at one point or another in their lives. They are so relatable and thus it makes for a very enjoyable reading experience. I highly recommend Kelley Armstrong. You could easily read this book as your first introduction into her writing, but it would mean so much more if you started with the first book in this series Bitten. If you enjoy paranormal romance or urban fantasy and haven't read Ms. Armstrong out, you are truly missing out.

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Review - Let Me Be the One

Title: Let Me Be the One
Author: Jo Goodman
Publishing Date: 2002
Genre: Historical
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: Borrowed the audio book from my library.

Let Me Be the One is the first book in Jo Goodman's Compass Club. Brendan David Hampton, Earl of Northam finds himself intrigued by Libby Pinrose, who is superior Officer, has tasked him with checking up on her. Her quiet and composed demeanor compels him to dig deeper because he is certain she is hiding something. Northam's instincts are correct because she certainly is hiding a dark secret.

I really enjoy Jo Goodman's writing but I have never listened to one of her books before and wondered how it would compare. I needn’t have worried because Virginia Leishman did a wonderful job of narrating the story. She speaks with an English accent and her voice brings the Regency period alive. Goodman excels at setting up a scene and painting a picture for the reader. Hearing her words read aloud really let the reader imagine the scene unfolding.

I found Let Me Be the One a very engrossing book, but be forewarned it is all very internal. The book is a subtle one, yet with many layers that are slowly peeled away. I found the writing and plot to be very crafty and clever, yet manipulative. Those who are familiar with Goodman's writing will recognize her signature style. The action is slow and plodding, and the character's themselves take center stage.

I really enjoyed both Libby's and Brandon's personalities. Libby almost feels as if she is not worthy of Brandon, but can't seem to say no to him. Brandon feels that Libby is such a gem and can't fathom what has left her so unhappy. To him she is almost like a fragile egg that could easily be broken. The way the story unfolds and how they reach their happy ever after certainly is a wonderful, endearing story. I highly recommend Jo Goodman and Let Me Be the One is certainly a good place to start.

This book can be purchased in used print format from Amazon.

Review - Countdown

Title: Countdown
Author: Michelle Maddox
Publishing Date: 2008
Genre: Futuristic
Rating: A
Sensuality: Hot
Book Disclosure: Free from the RT Book Lovers Convention

Kira wakes up in a cell to find herself handcuffed to a wall. She can't remember how she got there. She isn't alone. A man is also handcuffed to the wall opposite her. Kira soon finds out quick enough that she and Rogan have become unwilling participants in a game called the Countdown. They have to pass six levels by facing certain tasks. The alternative is death.

Countdown had me on the edge of my seat. From the very beginning, the reader is dumped into the middle of the action and it never lets up until the very end. Countdown in unlike any other book I have read. I really enjoyed the unusual premise, where the two lead characters have to perform feats and their very lives depend upon it. The game has six levels which get progressively harder to pass, both morally and physically. If a contestant looses the penalty is death. Kira and Rogan immediately have to learn to trust each other. Even though this book takes place over the course of a few days, the seriousness and intensity allows the two characters to bond more closely in a short period of time and have it be believable.

Countdown is just an exciting heart pounding thrill ride. It really leaves the reader on the edge of their seat. I felt the emotional component was balanced really nicely with the action. The romance never felt forced despite the short time frame in which it developed. I can't say enough about this book. It was an exciting, fun read.

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