Advanced Review: Kresley Cole's New Book: The Professional Part 1 (The Game Maker Series)

To Be Released

Dec. 16, 2013

Natalie is a PhD student who was adopted at birth. She worked an extra job for years to pay an investigator to find information about her birth parents. She is out with friends when she is attracted to a sexy, dark Russian who dresses like an executive but looks like a street fighter. She propositions him, and he turns her down flat. Later that night she finds him standing in her home.

Russian Mafiya enforcer Aleksandr "the Siberian" Sevastyan has been assigned by her father, a rich mafia boss to protect her, and he has been watching over her for months. When a rival crime boss sends enforcers to find her, Sevastyan must do everything in his power to keep her safe. She immediately goes from a poor struggling grad student to being caught up in the life of a rich mob heiress. Sevastyan fights within himself not to dishonor the daughter of a boss he loves like a father, but Natalie wants to give in to their mutual attraction and Sevastyan's dark sexual desires.

The Professional is a series of short books (about 130 pages each) which are all follow the couple from her fathers Russian palace to the decadent playgrounds of the mega-wealthy in Paris, where they fulfill even their darkest fantasies.

Kresley Cole is a master story teller who is also an excellent writer. Lots of people can write a book, but not everyone knows how to spin a tale, and that is a gift she shows in each of her books. I have read her Immortals After Dark Series and I was immediately a fan, I have to admit that I was a bit unsure when I read the description of "The Game Maker", her new series as a romance erotica series. Erotica writing is an arena in which I was unsure of her writing. Boy, am I impressed with this new display of her writing style. Seldom do you see an erotica tail with an award winning plot. This book was hot, sexy and all around a great book. I immediately fell in love with Natalie and Sevastyan and I can't wait to read the rest of their story. It is well worth the price they are asking for it. 

The only negative I can find to say about this book is the fact that it stops at an awkward place.  I wish that Cole had just combined all three novellas into one big book and just charged the same combined price for it.  It is really frustrating to have the book stop abruptly, then have to be distracted by going back to find it then buy the next installation.  If you are a Kresley Cole fan, I would definitely advise buying all three at one time.  The total is about $8 and it is well worth it.  This book is scheduled to be released TOMORROW, December 16, 2013. 

Entry- Level Mistress by Sabrina Darby

Entry- Level Mistress

By Sabrina Darby

Daniel Hartmann and Emily Anderson have every reason to hate each other. Her father destroyed the lives of his parents and he in turn sent her father to jail. Now Daniel’s thirty something year old successful billionaire and Emily is 19 year old sculptor who takes a job at his company the summer after high school graduation to find a way to ruin him.

It was unbelievable that Emily sees this man on her second day at work and at first sight, she is immediately is overwhelmed with lust for a guy that is 13 years older than her. At first, Emily seems to be this horny, naïve immature kid who's hero worship is being taken advantage of, when sleeps with Daniel by the third date. But, ironically she seems to be the sexual aggressor. She often pushing Daniel to continue their casual sex (often at work), and she goads Daniel into continuing their encounters together by saying that it's just for fun and games. (Sadly the love scenes were short and there was room for a lot of development.)

This book had a great description and I was expecting more. It just didn't stand out in any way. The relationship between Daniel and Emily was blasé and not very note-worthy. The "college girl dates a dominant millionaire" plot has been overdone in romance books lately. It's a trend that will end soon (thank God). If writers choose to use the exact same trend as lots of other writers, there needs to be something extra or something unique into the story to make it stand out.

Daniel Hartmann and Emily Anderson have every reason to hate each other. Her father destroyed the lives of his parents and he in turn sent her father to jail. Now Daniel’s thirty something year old successful billionaire and Emily is 19 year old sculptor who takes a job at his company the summer after high school graduation to find a way to ruin him.

It was unbelievable that Emily sees this man on her second day at work and at first sight, she immediately is overwhelmed with lust for a guy that is 13 years older than her. Emily seems to be this naïve kid who's hero worship is being taken advantage of. Emily sleeps with Daniel by the third date, and she seems to be the sexual aggressor pushing for more of their no strings casual sex (often at the office). When Daniel is reluctant she often convinces him to continue their meetings by reminding him that their quickies are "just fun and games". (Sadly the love scenes were short and there was room for a lot of development.)

While this just wasn't a book that would be my favorite, I am sure that I would read another of Sabina Darby's other books.
Find out Sabrina Darby's book tour schedule(s)  and get news of new releases at her web site.  give her a tweet on her Twitter page and/or like her on Facebook

Iris Johansen's --Forever Dream

 Iris Johansen's

 Forever Dream

(A Re-Print)

I  liked this book although I have to admit is isn't my favorite Iris Johansen read.  This is basically a re-print of a previous book and by the second chapter I started having deja vu moments by the third chapter I am pretty sure  that I read this book a couple of years ago.  That was ok, but just a surprise.

Jared Ryker is a gifted genetic scientist. But the brilliant recluse has never found anyone he can share his life with—until he meets Tania Orlinov, the incomparable prima ballerina and Soviet defector Tania has no interest in love, which only fuels Jared’s attraction, one that grows into an obsession.   Jared is a strong personality and he seems a bit cruel in his obsession with Tania at some places in the book. I liked Tania's character, but she seemed a bit wimpy and Jared was a bit too overpowering for me. I'm not sure if this is intentional because Johansen was trying to portray that  the dominant Russian male influence,  but after a certain point it became a bit frustrating.  Overall, I think this was a pretty good book.  There were steamy love scenes, but the interaction between characters began to take away from the plot and story flow. By the end of the book, I was a bit frustrated and it was a challenge to finish it.

Johansen is a well known award winning  American author of crime, fiction and romance novels who lives in Georgia.  You can find out more about her many books at her Goodreads author page.  You can join her mailing list/ fan club at her web site.

My Rating:

Heat Index:         *** (3 of 5 Stars)

Plot/ Story Line **** ( 4 of 5 Stars)

Overall:                *** ( 3 of 5 Stars)

Who Doesn't Love A Man In Uniform?

To The Limit  (Uniformly Hot Series)

by Jo Leigh

(A Harlequin Blaze)

Wow!  Hot and sexy doesn't even begin to describe Air Force fighter Pilot Sam Brody is not excited about his newest assignment to be in a classroom until he realizes that he will be in the same town as Emma Lockwood. He takes control of his life and tries to win back his old flame (and the love of his life) who was married to his old friend. This is a great realistic story with a pilot who wants to make you enlist Who can resist a man uniform? Jo Leigh gets my kudos for this one. I have read her books before, but this is the first of her Harlequin Blaze books for me. I can't wait to read more of her stories. This book is part of the Uniformly Hot series, and it has definitely got my salute!

Jo Leigh lives an exciting life when she is writing books and even when she isn't.
She began her career in 1975 as a reader in the Comedy Development department for 20th-Century Fox. She left Fox in 1977 to go on location with THE DEER HUNTER. She then worked as an auditor, associate producer and producer.  Jo teaches writing at workshops across the country and on-line, and is a frequent guest speaker at writing conferences. Her tape on Advanced Plotting from the Dallas Romance Writers of America conference is the best selling tape in RWA’s history.

You can join her fan club or just find out more about her next movie or novel at her web site.  You can also read her biography at .her author's page on Goodreads.

My Review:

Story:****(4 Start)

Heat Index:  *** (4 Stars)

Overall Rating: **** (4 Stars)

What's the big idea with the little novels?

My last post was about  my disappointment with the new trend  of " "teaser" novellas that have shrunk down so much that they aren't enough to even catch the readers interest.  Then- Lo and behold, I opened up Virna De Paul's new fantasy romance book A Vampire's Salvation  and I was shocked to find out that it was only 77 pages long.   

 Steam immediately  began to pour out of my ears. I had my mind set on a full novel   and  I'm tired of being frustrated by half stories!   Can't a girl get a full length novel any more?   After breathing myself through what was potentially a full soap box rant, I decided to give this "novel" the benefit of the doubt.   De Paul's books have been pretty good so far.   Maybe she has the "chops" to pull this off.  Will give you the scoop on it in a day or two.  😳

Bound - By Marina Anderson -- A Big Dissappointment In A VERY Little Book.

Bound

by Marina Anderson

I felt like someone jumped off a cliff and was suspended in mid air. There is no resolution unless you buy the next "book".....Uuugh! 

This book is what I would call a "teaser" or "come on".  It gets you started  into a story and then leaves you hanging unless you buy the next book.  The problem with this particular teaser is that even though it is 35 pages long, it's content is so little that it isn't even enough to really get you to where a full teaser would stop.  It wasn't enough story tin this "book" to get me interested enough to pay the money for the next  REAL book (which I admit I have done in the past and been quite satisfied with the  teaser and the book I purchased.)     In this case, I it was more like someone giving you food and letting you chew for 2 seconds then telling you to stop.  I didn't really get enough from this quick read to be able to tell if it was good or not.  So I guess my review is to tell you...I just don't know enough about this book to give a real opinion one way or another.  Unfortunately for the author this means that I won't be spending my hard earned book money to find out whether the next "book" will have enough pages so I can get a real taste of this author's writing ability.

I can only use this opportunity to let publishers and authors a message.  While I understand the marketing principle that leads sellers to offer these "teaser" novellas, there is a great risk involved in them too if they are not done correctly.  ( I would say that only 1 out of 3 really is done well enough not to have negative effects.  I cannot tell you how many customer reviews I have read by angry readers who feel you have cheated them and wasted their time.   These reviews and comments can hurt you much more than the few dollars and small amount of mercy good reviews that some will leave. 

This This  book should have been labeled a novella  and their should be disclaimers in the description about how many pages it is and the book it leads to.  Unfortunately the way it is currently presented will be  loosing potential fans and discrediting the authors other books which may be longer and quite good.   It's sad many readers will write the author off and won't bother to find the real books you may write.  You may have gotten much more positive press and future sales if you simply gave it away for free. Even though I received a complimentary copy of this book, I still was angry because I felt like it was a waste of my time.  I can only imagine how much more angry I would have been if I had spent my "book money" that I have to scrape out of our families  budget.

My Review Scores:

Story  * (1 out of 5 Stars)
Heat Index         (0 out of 5 Starts)
Overall Rating * (1 Star)

(Yes- it's hard to believe but scores like this really happen!!)

About the Author:
Marina Anderson is the pseudonym of British author Margaret Bingley, whose novels have been published all over the world. Margaret uses this pseudonym for her series of erotica novels. She also publishes erotica for women under the pseudonym Fredrica Alleyn.  As of the date of this review, I couldn't find her web site, however her books are published by Forever; a  romance publishing division of Grand Central Publishing.  If you click this link, I'm sure you can find more information about her and the books she has written.

WOW--A Two Book Weekend

This weekend I cleaned my house, put together the new storage cabinet I have really been needing (it finally went on sale), and still managed to get in two new books.      

                                     

As always, I've got to share them with you guys:

 

Darkness Rises  (Immortal Guardians)   

  By Dianne Duvall                                    

  My Rating:           

 Overall Story:  **** 3 out of 5 Stars

 Heat Index:      ****3 out of 5 Stars

 

Krysta Linz is a mortal who hunts vampires with her brother's help.  She has always worked alone and somehow she has managed to survive.  Etienne is an Immortal Guardian who is amazed with Krista's hunting skill and her body.   He knows she is meant for him, but  convincing a mortal to join the Guardians is almost as difficult as having his group accept a moral and her brother.
This was a story that never got dull.  Both Krysta and Etienne are strong willed characters, and just their natures made it interesting from start to finish.

Dianne Duvall has really started a great story, that only starts to let us get to know the Immortal Guardians.  It leaves you wanting to read more.  I 'm sure this book will  be the start of a great series. She is a fairly new writer with only about 4 books available at major stores. Although she is new, she is off to a great start and I know that I will be reading and reviewing more of her books.  Dianne loves writing Romance, Paranormal Romance and Vampire Romance books (my kind of writer).  She credits Stephen King as a strong influence along with "too many other writers to name".  You can join her "Street Team" (fan club) on Facebook. and find lots of contests and give-aways at her her blog  or find out more about her book tours at her web site.

 

 

You can get your copy of  Darkness Rises at Barnes & Noble the paperback lists for about new and about $7.99 used.  The Nook ebook sells for $4.99.  The Kindle ebook (at Amazon) sells for 3.99 while the paperback sells for $7.19 new.

 

 

Fatal Strike (McClouds & Friends Book #10)

                                    By Shannon McKenna

                                    My Rating:

                                           Story:  **** 4 of 5 Stars

                                           Heat Index:  ***3 of 5 Stars

                                           Overall:  **** 4 of 5 Stars

                                  When Lara Kirk was abducted months ago, Miles Davenport                 vowed he'd bring her home. Miles is recovering himself when he b                                                         begins to see her in his head, and at first he thinks that he  is                                                        loosing his mind.  He has become totally obsessed; he                                                      He thinks that  he can  hear Lara pleading for him to save her.
                                                          Finally her realizes that she may be real, but finding her after all this time will be next to impossible and he wants to do it alone.
 

Shannon McKenna comes right up to snuff with this book!! This is You can count on her for a great story and lots of intrigue and action and best of all the hot guys and hot romance. I can't wait to read more of the McClouds series.

Krysta is a mortal who hunts vampires with her brother's help.  She has always worked alone and somehow she has managed to survive.  Etienne is an Immortal Guardian who is amazed with Krista's hunting skill and her body.   He knows she is meant for him, but  convincing a mortal to join the Guardians is almost as difficult as having his group accept a moral and her brother.
This was a story that never got dull.  Both Krysta and Etienne are strong willed characters, and just their natures made it interesting from start to finish.
Dianne Duvall has really started a great story, that only starts to let us get to know the Immortal Guardians.  It leaves you wanting to read more.  I fully expect this book to be the start of a great series.

 Shannon Mc.Kenna is a writer of romance, mystery and thrillers.  You can read more about her at her web page.  Her books do come with a hefty price tag.  At Barnes & Noble the paperback lists for about $11.99 new and about $7.39 used.  The Nook ebook sells for $9.99.   The Kindle ebook (at Amazon) sells for $9.39.

NEWS!! This New Release is Your Next "MUST READ"

The Warlord's Lady   By Nicola E. Sheridan

 (To be released November 01, 2013)

Had to let you know about a book that will be released tomorrow.  I lucked upon an advanced copy of the new book The Warlord's Lady, by Harlequine Enterprises Australia writer Nicola E. Sheridan.  Sheridan only has a few released books under her belt, but she is destined to be a best selling author in the U. S. and  Europe. 

 This book is one of those books no romance reader wants to miss.  Nicole Sheridan is a gifted writer with a real knack for making a believable plot with unbelievable twists.  I can't say enough about Ms. Sheridan and this book.  The writing was great with a smooth style and down to earth characters that are fun and believable.  I fully expect to see Sheridan on best seller lists in the future.

 Cain Dath is a warlord magician that battles the Laos government in defense of all magical creatures.   He kidnaps Sabra and makes her fall for him during her eighteen months as his sex slave.  After Sabra manages to escape she goes into hiding but writes a best selling tell-all book that eventually exposes her to the public and leads to her being in mortal danger.  Dath who has been searching for Sabra, locates her after the book exposes her whereabouts to his and her enemies.  He tries to kidnap her from the "protection" of a government who wants to use her for her special abilities.  He tries to kidnap her even though he knows it is a trap, and he is putting himself at risk of capture.

I have to admit that I was starting to fall  for Dath, even though I am not the type to fall or the bad guys.  While the media  characterizes him as a evil dictator who lives in the Laos jungle,  we learn from Sabras tell-all book that he was the tall dark, sexy and mysterious with a sensitive side. What's not to love about a guy like that!!

I'm not a fan of extremely fantastic romance novels, but this futuristic  story has just enough of everything; magic, mystery, intrigue, supernatural abilities,  believable characters. great plot. and a  love story that makes you go "Awww".

You can get a bit more author bio information from Nicola E. Sheridan's web site.  You can become a fan there two to get advanced notice of her interviews and new releases.  So far this book is not available in hard copy.  You can purchase the Kindle ebook at Amazon for $.99 or get the Nook ebook for $.99 (not available until Nov. 01, 2013)  Take advantage of this great price while it lasts!!!

Overall Rating : 5 out of  5 Stars
Heat Index:  4 out of 5 Stars
Story Line: 5 out of 5 Stars

Karen Whiddon's "Tho Lost Wolf's Destiny" -- It's Howling Good

Lucas Kenyon had been battling Daemons and memories from his path, until he saw Blythe Daphne on the television news. She was turning to a Minister to help heal her daughter.  The moment Lucas sees her, he  knows that she is a shape shifter, she is his mate, and the man she was turning to for help means nothing but trouble.  I don't want to spoil this one for you, so I won't go too heavy on the details.   I don't want to spoil this one for you, so I won't go too heavy on the details. 

This story by Karen Whiddon was a fun and exciting read, with lots of good plot elments  to keep you interested and a secret that Lucas holds that is the key to his past problems and also his future happiness.  Lucas and Blythe are likeable characters, and  while Blythe seems to be naïve in believing what she sees until it's too late, I have to say her willingness to trust, even when she sees signs that it is misplaced,  is very understandable when couples with a mother's desire to heal her child.
This book can be heart wrenching one minute and then  heart stopping the next.  This is a must have for all who love a thrilling romance with a HEA ending.

Here's The Bottom Line: Heat Index: 2 out of 5 stars
Plot:  4 out of 5 stars
Overall Rating:3 out of 5 stars

You can purchase this book for $2.99  kindle and for $7.19 paperback or Kindle edition at Amazon.  You can get the Nook ebook  for $2.99 or the paperback for $7.99 by following this link to Barnes & Noble.

Captive: The Forbidden Side orf Nightsade (the First Novel of the Nightshade Series)

 The first novel in the new Nightshade Series By A.D. Robertson

I have to admit that this is the first book I have read by A.D. Robertson, but  I can assure you that it won't be the last.  Robertson created intriguing situation where enemies realize that they have much more in common than they thought, and this is made even more interesting by a natural attraction that confuses their loyalty.  Especially when Tristan the Keeper (witches who  have turned to dark magic) realizes deep down inside that he is just as much a captive as the beautiful young Searcher Sarah whom he is holding captive within his secluded island castle.

It only took a few pages to really draw me into the world of the Nightshade Series.  I was quickly able to imagine it.    I can't wait to earn more about this series and what Robertson has in her imagination.  I'm eager to see what the next book will be about. 

At $19.46 for the Nook ebook, ($10.99 for the Kindle ebook), $12.99 for a hard covder copy and $24.99 for audio-book this book comes with a hefty price tag.  I admit that I wouldn't pay that much for this story, but you judge for yourself.  You can read more about A. D. Robinson at her website.  She is an international New York Times Best Selling author.

RATINGS;

Heat Index 2 Stars
Overall Story 3 Stars

How Can A Bad Boy Be So Good?-

 

- The Things I Do For You

(The Alexanders-- Book 2)

by M. Malone (Author's Web Site)



Steam Index; 4 out of 5 stars
Plot: 5 out of 5 stars
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars


This was one of the most charming books I have read in a while.  How can a bad boy be so good?

You will just have to read this book for yourselves.  (Don't forget to give me your thoughts in the comments below!)  I thought this was a five star all around great book.  The plot that was just right- Not too intricate, crazy but still believable and the characters are loveable.  Even bad boy Nicholas Alexander.

Nicholas is a playboy. He's got looks, charm, money and a beautiful woman for each day of the week, but he secretly has fallen for Raina Winters who dumped him after a steamy one night stand.  So when Raina's fiancé dumps her on the day of their engagement announcement,  Nick steps in at the last minute to keep her from public humiliation.   Raina doesn't believe in love.  She was marrying just to have a father because she wants a child.  They come to an agreement:  He will give her a baby and be a real father if she will give him two little words--"I Do."

Nick and Raina  are a hot couple and this story is something for everyone who loves a good romance.  I don't want to spoil it so I will just say that  this story is so well done that I am sure you will love it.  It has steamy love scenes, and writing that appeal to  every kind of romance reader.

 

The Alexander Series Web Site

The Alexanders Series

Teasing Trent

One More Day

The Things I Do for You

Future Books By M. Malone

He's the Man ~ 8/2013

All I Need is You ~ 1/2014

Naughty and Nice: 'Tis the Season for Steamy Paranormal Romance Stocking Stuffers!

 NEWS:

I have got to share this bit of buzz from a post  I read at Barnes & Noble in one of my Romance chat  Groups.  Thought you would like to know about these....

I have already read Jacquelyn Franks book Forbidden so look for my review in the coming days.  In addition I love Laura Adriane so I know I will be reading Darker After Midnight if I haven't already.   You know I will always share...(info that is)

Naughty and Nice:

by CDamani   

If you’re a fan of paranormal romance like I am – and haven’t been too “naughty” this year – you’re in for a potentially unforgettable holiday season. With so many noteworthy paperback paranormal romances that have been released in the last few months – and that are about to be released – your stocking should be stuffed with one or more of these titles:


The second installment of Stone’s League of Guardians saga (after Wicked Road to Hell), this is essentially a standalone novel that revolves around a witch (Rowan James) and a Seraphim (Azaiel) and a grand scale conspiracy that involves blood demons, dark fae, and an “I’ll-have-what-they’re-having” romance! I absolutely loved this novel – powered by a cast of brilliantly developed characters, relentless pacing, a tight storyline, some laugh-out-loud humorous sequences, and an undeniably sensual relationship between Rowan and Azaiel, this novel was literally unputdownable. If you’ve never read Juliana Stone before, you’re missing out. She is as good as they come.

“They’re hot. Really hot… in a scary I’m gonna eat you for dinner kind of way.” – King of the Damned by Juliana Stone

• Nightbred by Lynn Viehl

Viehl is an amazingly talented novelist who has written critically acclaimed science fiction, romance, and urban fantasy. Nightbred and its predecessor Nightborn are part of her Lords of the Darkyn saga – if you’re a fan of truly dark fantasy and even darker sensuality, you’ll love Viehl’s vampiric Darkyn. (The third installment of this series, entitled Nightbound, is tentatively scheduled to be released in May of 2013.)

 

• A Love Untamed by Pamela Palmer

Palmer’s latest Feral Warriors novel, the seventh in the series, is scheduled to be released the day after Christmas! What kind of torture is this?

• Forbidden by Jacquelyn Frank

The first book in Frank’s World of Nightwalkers series was wildly entertaining – and I loved how Frank fused together urban fantasy with Egyptian mythology. Fans of her previous Nightwalkers novels should love this new spin-off sequence.

• Heart of Atlantis by Alyssa Day

 
If you’re a fan of grand scale storylines, you will love Day’s The Warriors of Poseidon series, in which a group of supernatural sentinels are tasked with protecting humankind. Heart of Atlantis is essentially Alaric’s (and Quinn’s) story – one that fans of the series have been waiting years for! And while it’s sadly the concluding book in this story arc, Day promises to return to the realm in the near future.

• Deliver Me from Temptation by Tes Hilaire

The second Paladin Warriors novel (after Deliver Me from Darkness) features the endearing character of Logan Calhoun, the last full-blooded Paladin, who is burdened with numerous responsibilities, not the least of which are protecting humankind and continuing the Paladin bloodline. But when a no-nonsense detective with a dark past enters his life, revelations abound for both of them… This series is surprisingly deep thematically and should appeal to anyone who enjoys supernatural-nuanced romantic suspense.

• Beneath a Darkening Moon by Keri Arthur

The second book in Arthur’s Ripple Creek Werewolf saga (after Beneath a Rising Moon), this series has been out for years in Australia and the UK… If you’re a fan of Jennifer Ashley’s Shifters Unbound, you will love these underappreciated novels!

• Darker After Midnight by Lara Adrian

This book was released in hardcover earlier this year – the very first Midnight Breed novel to be released in hardcover! – and the paperback edition of Darker After Midnight just hit the shelves. Fans of J. R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood looking for another super steamy vampire saga should definitely check out this excellent series!

With this many exceptional paperbacks on the shelves, I may need to purchase another stocking – or just hang up a pair of nylons instead!

 
What romance releases would you like to see in your stocking this holiday season?


Caprice Damani is a work-from-home mom with extensive experience in the publishing industry, as a bookseller, editor, and romance reviewer. Keep up with all of her blogs – as well as all of Barnes & Noble’s exclusive reviews, authors interviews, videos, promotions, and more – by following @BNBuzz on Twitter!
 

Bonds of Hope (Book #4 of the Wicked Play Series) by Lydia Archer Has Me Tied Up and Not Sure About It

Bonds of Hope

(Book 4 of the Wicked Play Series) by Lydia Aicher

HEAT INDEX:
****4 Stars
 
STORY :
***3 Stars
 
OVERALL RATING:
*** 3 Stars


I went through a ton of books in the last few weeks and I am now way behind on my reviews.  So look for my massive catch up efforts in the next week or so, because you know I hate to miss even one book that I can share with you guys and have SO MUCH to tell you about in my reading adventures.  So here's something juicy to get my readers back into the swing of things:

  As you know I am not a great fan of BDSM books but since it's a current fad, I  decided to read this book in my quest to keep my reading diversified.  Also, I had just gotten through with a blasé book and wanted something a bit spicy, controversial and different, which is just what the new BDSM fad tends to be. So here it is:

Lynda Aicher may be a new name for many readers, but she has already caught my eye. While EVERYBODY knows that 3/4 of the BDSM books are comparable if not exact in story line to that notorious 50 Shades, at least Aicher gave a good representation of something different. In "Bonds of Hope", Quinn is an actress who wants to really experience her next role as a Sub (Submissive) in a BDSM film, so she arranges for a week in an exclusive club where she is to be a Sub. She ends up with an attraction to Marcus, the hot Dom and a blooming interest in the BDSM world. Overall, this was a good story that was believable and not all about just sex. I appreciate the way Aicher tells this story. It was different and that in itself was refreshing.

Of course, by this time, I think a lot of readers are ready for the next reading trend, and I am becoming one of them.  I just couldn't tell if  her story was just a so-so story, or if I am becoming jaded because it seems that all of these books are just replicas.   I guess I just don't get it. I don't understand why so many authors are trying to replicate something that is extremely hard to top much les simulate.  

I am interested in more of Aichers books to find out if she can really develop a unique plot. I think she made all of this story that she could and it was very interesting. I just never found a "Wow factor". Marcus' character was really hot and interesting at some points, but then it would fizzle back into blase. As I said, I look forward to reading Aicher's other books (not part of the BDSM series). I have a feeling that she has a lot great stories to write and I look forward to it.   You know I will be following up with you as soon as I can grab one of her other books to review--- so stay tuned!!  In the mean time, add a comment if  you have read her books and tell me what you think.  Or, just share a recommendation of one of her good books.

You can read about Lynda Archer at  her  Amazon author page or her web site.  You can grab a copy of the Bonds of Hope ebook for your Nook at Barnes & Noble for $3.99 or get the Kindle Edition  for about $3.03 at Amazon where the Audio book is $15.95.  Currently no hard copies have been released.

Thanks to the publisher for giving me this book in exchange for a fair review. 

Charlotte Stein's "Run To Me"- You HAVE TO Read It For Yourself!!

Charlotte Stein  (Author of best selling Mischief titles: Power Play, Deep Desires and Make Me)

Heat Index:  **** (4 Stars)

Overall:      ***** (5 Stars)

  I often get tired of the same old story lines, but there is nothing about this story that's cliché.  and it's so refreshing to read how Charlotte Stein spins a story.   Stein has a vivid imagination and boy does it show-- from the steamy bedroom scenes to the twists and turns in the plot.  I couldn't put this book down. Every time I thought I knew what was coming, I was surprised with something new.

Alissa's roommate suddenly goes out of town.  While envying her roommates sophistication and glamour, Alissa comes across her datebook and sees a certain "Assignation" noted every week at the same time and place.  Curious, like a true girlfriend, she decides to take her place and see where this is and what she has been doing each week.   Alissa ends up in a fancy hotel room with a strange man and some unusual toys.   That's when she realizes that her roommate is into casual sex meetings (with a bit of kinky).  She thinks she has managed to get out of the situation anonymously, but finds out that she is only beginning to get involved.

I love Alissa's character!!   She was naïve at times, but still comes across as a believable character with a character flaws (a real woman).  Stein's smooth writing style ensures that readers will quickly empathize with Alissa and become involved in her story.    She had me laughing on one page and then the next few pages were a totally different emotion.   At some points I was so involved that I wanted to yell at Alissa like at the movie theater: "Don't do that!" or "I can't believe you did that!!"

All I can say is "Now I have to add another author to my list of favorites.   This was my first time reading Stein's work, and I can't wait to find my next read from her book list.   If you are looking for a book that's NOT predictable, steamy , fun and just an all around good story,  Charlotte Stein is clearly a writer you have to experience. 

 

Bitter Disenchantment

This weekend I read a couple of books, but the best by far was Bitter Disenchantment: A Coveted Novella by Shawntelle Madison.  Aggie is the daughter of the wolf pack Alpha, but her father is abusive, cruel and manipulative.  Maggie has watched him physically and mentally abuse her mother, the servants and herself.  So when he arranges a marriage for her to an Alpha from another pack she is not happy.  She tries to get to know her "Fiance" , but comes to see that he is just as bad as her father. Aggie's father wants to use her for her Alpha blood lines, but he underestimates the spirit that comes with her heritage. 
Desperate to escape the living hell she sees her mother in, Aggie begins to use that true Alpha within to find a way to escape after her father has her confined to her room until the marriage.  She even goes so fat as to do something unthinkable.  (I want to spoil it for you, but I just can't. You have to read it.!) 
This isn't one of those Happily Ever After romances, but it is sooo good that I encourage everyone to read it.  Aggie's s story has a bit of everything from tragedy, to intrigue and then on to a great ending with a bit of a twist.  This is one of those books you read, then keep and read it again later.  Madison tells a great story that draws you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.  I found myself  cheering for Aggie as I read, her spirit and independence are inspiring.  All I can say is: "You go girl!!!"

 

Here's The Bottom Line:

Heat Index: 2 out of 5 stars
Plot:  4 out of 5 stars
Overall Rating:3 out of 5 stars

You can purchase this book for $2.99  kindle and for $7.19 paperback or Kindle edition at Amazon.  You can get the Nook ebook  for $2.99 or the paperback for $7.99 by following this link to Barnes & Noble.

About The Author:   Shawntelle Madison:

Shawntelle Madison is a web developer who loves to weave words as well as code. She'd never admit it, but if asked she'd say she covets and collects source code. After losing her first summer job detassling corn, Shawntelle performed various jobs--from fast-food clerk to grunt programmer to university webmaster. Writing eccentric characters is her most favorite job of them all. On any particular day when she's not surgically attached to her computer, she can be found watching cheesy horror movies or the latest action-packed anime. She lives in Missouri with her husband and children.

 Read more about Madison at her web site,  check out her blog.  Give her a tweet @ Shawntelle (on Twitter), or like her on Facebook to get information about her newest releases.  Keep up because they are coming out fast and furious.

Three New Harlequine Romances-Western Romance Just In Time For Christmas

Just wanted to let you Harlequin lovers out there know about three new releases that will be out in time for the upcoming Christmas Holidays.

 

Christmas at Cardwell Ranch

by B.J. Daniels

 A Harlequin Intrigue

Due Out  October 22, 2013

Description:

AT CARDWELL RANCH, THE HOLIDAYS CAN BE BRUTAL… 

It had been years since Tanner "Tag" Cardwell's boots touched Montana soil. This Christmas he was determined to change that. Until a run-in with local Lily McCabe revealed dark secrets from his past and deep trouble for his future.

Cowboys came and went in these parts. But Tag Cardwell  caught Lily off guard in more ways than one when the two  became entwined in a murder mystery. What was it about Tag?  The dreamy eyes… The rugged physique… The protection she  felt in his strong arms…

But before they could lose themselves in each other they  had to trace a killer. Or risk finding a crime scene under the Christmas tree.

 

PRE-ORDER:

at Amazon ( $3.82 Kindle/ $4.95 Paperback)

at Barnes & Noble  ($4.99 Nook/ $5.50 Paperback)

 

 

 

Forsaken

 By B.J. Daniels

 

 Beartooth, Montana Series from HQN Book 3

To Be Released On Amazon on September 24, 2013

 

Danger runs high and passions burn hot in Montana's wild country

Big-city detective Bentley Jamison is a long way from home in the Beartooth wilderness when one of local rancher Maddie Conner's ranch hands goes missing. Towering mountains and a small, tight community are as unfamiliar to Jamison as herding sheep, but he's never shied away from a challenge. As the new deputy sheriff, he's sworn to protect every inch of this rough terrain—starting with unraveling a mystery that has left Maddie a wide-open target. 

 

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Fans of Western romantic suspense will relish Daniels' tale of clandestine love played out in a small town on the Great Plains." -Booklist on Unforgiven

"An explosive tale of love, trust and the twisted ties among an embattled family." -RT Book Reviews on Crime Scene at Cardwell Ranch

 

 

TO PRE- ORDER:

At Amazon (for $7.19 Paperback/ $6.15 Kindle Edition)

At Barnes & Noble (for $7.99 paperback / $7.49 Nook Ebook)

 

  

B. J. Daniels' Web Site

EXPECTING A BOLTON BABY 

(Harlequin Desire)

by Sarah M. Anderson

 

Book three in the Bolton Brothers series - They live fast, ride hard and love fiercely!

 

 

He'd never expected to see Stella Caine again. After one wild night, she'd walked away--right after revealing that her father was the one man who could threaten the biggest business deal of Bobby Bolton's career. So Bobby left her alone.   Until now.... Now Stella is pregnant and staying in his condo.  This is a complication that can be solved only one way:  marriage.  Bobby wants to do the right thing.  Hell- he wants her-- has never stopped wanting her.  Surely he can convince her to say yes even without those three little words

 

"Passionate, surprising, relevant and riveting - A Man of Privilege deserves a place of honor on your bookshelf." 

 --USA TODAY's Happy Ever After blog on A Man of Privilege by Sarah M. Anderson  

 

 

 Pre-Order: 

At Amazon ( $4.73 Paperback/$3.82 Kindle)

At Barnes & Noble ($5.25 Paperback/ $4,99 Nook Book)

 

 

 Sarah M. Anderson's Web Site

 

For More Information- See Harlequin Books

Harlequin Books

Enjingiri Writes A Good Book...It's Just Not My Type of Reading!

"Tangled Passion"       

By:  Stanley Ejingiri

My rating:  3 of 5 stars


I am not sure that I would consider this book a "Romance Book".  I just couldn't connect with the characters or get interested in the story . First of all, it was too in depth and I wanted to put it down before the two characters even met.  I must say that the author has considerable writing skills, and a writing style that most novel readers will enjoy. 

It just wasn't what I was expect as a romance reader. I admit that I didn't finish the story.  I tried, but I just kept skipping over the pages trying to get to the significant parts and eventually I just lost interest and stopped.  This book strikes me more as a novel that eventually ends up as a 4 episode TV drama.  If that is your type of read, then this is the book for you.

Prince of Secrets- A Fun, Sexy & Sassy Cinderella Story

I am a sucker for the "Cindrella" romances where the girl falls for the Prince.    If you love these classic romance stories too then you HAVE TO read "The Prince of Secrets" by Lucy Monroe.  This was a fun read about  Prince Demyan Zaretsky, a Prince of Volyarus, a small country, who finds out that due to a legal mistake a descendent of  the man who helped to found the country actually owns a great percentage of the Volyarus national treasury.  Needless to say,  Prince Demyan  is willing to sacrifice himself for the good of the country.  That means seducing the American scientist (Chanel Tanner) and  convincing her to marry him.  Only marriage will gain his country's  financial security.
With his identity disguised and a pair of geeky glasses, Demyan sets out for America to seduce Chanel.  However, he didn't plan for the strong attraction that he feels for Chanel.

This was just an all around great story that every romance lover can enjoy.  I loved Chanel''s character.  She is very inexperienced, but not naïve.   She always finds little factors of Demyan and their relationship that just don't fit, but she still continues to trust because of the way she feels about him. 

And of course there is a HEA ending!

Here's The Bottom Line:

Heat Index: 3 out of 5 stars
Plot:  4 out of 5; stars
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

You can purchase this book for $1.99 for  paperback or Kindle edition at Amazon.  You can get the Nook ebook  for $1.99 or the paperback for $4.99 by following this link to Barnes & Noble.  Read more about Lucy Monroe at her Amazon author's page.
You can find Lucy on Facebook  or sign up for her news feed on her blog, and her official web site.

" Lost to the Desert Warrior" ( Harlequine Presents #3171)

In this book Princess Layla flees a pre-arranged marriage to a demented cruel man who wants to take over the throgn by escaping into the deset and marrying  her fathers enemy Sheik Raz the rightful ruler.

Raz Al Zahki seems to be just as cruel as the uncle sometimes.  He does things that anyone would know is hurtful, and then seems shocked to find out that she is hurt.  For example, he walks out after they have sex witho ut saying anything, and he doesn't come back for days.   I was beginning to feel frustrated by Layla's spineless. lost personality.

  While Layla's character is supposed to be book smart but know nothing about the world, she is still a princess.    I think that even the most timid woman would say something, complain or even make some type of silent protest after being treated this way a couple of times.   In the end, of course, Raz declares his undying love, and they live "happily ever after". 

This was generally a good book, but there was nothing exciting or different about it.  The plot seemed rushed and could have easily been developed into a much better story with a few more scenes and information.

It seemed to repeat the same background information almost as a filler.  The story just kind of unraveled like your shoe laces.  There was no great moments or exciting twists.  The story is fairly predictable and before you know it the book is over. 

If you like a basic "good" story this is it.  It was a quick short read for when you want something to read in a couple of hours.  I have read Morgan's books in the past and I was expecting more.   I'm not sure this is one of Morgan's best works.  I am sure I will give her another read just to be fair.

Help me out-- What do you think about this book?  Leave a comment with your thought!!

 My Ratings:

Story: 2 of 5 hearts
Heat Index: 2 of 5 hearts
Overall:  2 of 5 hearts

You can purchase the ebook and/or hard copy of this book at Amazon (Kindle Edition) and Barnes & Noble.  You can find out more about Sarah Morgan at her  Goodreads Author Profile.  Like her and sign up for her RSS feed, or newsletter at her web site.

Virna DePaul's Book "Arrested By Love" -So Hot It Should Be Illegal

Virna DePaul's book "Arrested By Love" (A Loveswept Contemporary Erotic Romance) is so hot that it should be illegal.  (Sorry I couldn't resist.)
 
The book contains three novellas from her Red Hot Cops series. These stories are all about Bad Boy Cops with Good Girls, and you can imagine the results.

DePaul writes a great story!  It was a vey interesting and spicy diversion.   DePaul took  cops from the first novella (Copping To It) and developed them in the next stories.  With a smooth storyline and just the right amount of substance in each novella, the whole book just flowed like a well choreographed dance routine.  

In "Copping To It", prim and respectable journalist Claire Fullerton is trying to cover a story when she unexpectedly gets caught up in a steak out with Detective Ty Fullerton whom she has had a secretly lusts for.  Ty is undercover in a motorcycle gang that likes to ride bikes and lots of ladies.  Ty realizes that this is a chance for Claire to unleash her inner Vixen and he shows that he accepts her and the vixen just the way they are.

The second story "Cop Appeal" is a reunion story.  Four years ago, Sarah Larson left Detective Luke Anderson for another cop. After a messy divorce Sarah still carries a torch for Luke that has never really gone out.  Luke hears about the divorce and is determined to get her back. When a demented ex-husband begins to threaten her Luke struggles to prove that their second chance at happiness will work out.

In "Cop An Attitude" former centerfold Jenna Mills appears to be ice cold and she shoots down all male attention.  She is secretly afraid of men and intimacy due to a past tragedy.  But-- she is ready to address her fears.  She make an indecent proposal to honorable cop Noah James who she is secretly attracted to.

De Paul has really hit her stride as a writer and it shows in the book.  The characters are well developed, and there is just enough background information without getting too involved.  The plot development has just the right amount of twist and events, combined with just enough surprise to keep you intrigued.

Warning:  This book is Rated R and it is NOT intended for those under 18 years of age!   When the characters in the book are naughty, you can almost see the steam rising off the pages.   (De Paul has got a vivid imagination.-lol)

If writing were like dancing, I would say that Virna DePaul would a favorite on "Dancing with the Stars". No matter what she writes next you won't want to miss it. 

At $2.99 for the ebook this book is a steal that's well worth it.  You can purchase the Nook book at Barnes & Noble or the  Kindle Edition rat Amazon.  You can also find more of DePauls books and more book reviews at Goodreads.  You can find out more about her at her  Goodreads author page .  There you can also join her fan club.  You can find out about her latest projects at her web site

"Bedding the Wrong Brother" is Great For A Quick Read

This isn't the first review I have done of Virna DePaul's books and I have to say that I know it won't be my last.  She never disappoints me.  DePaul has a great plot,  great imagination and a smooth steamy writing style  that brings it all to life.  This was another of her Dalton's Brother's series.  The book is about  and I really enjoyed it.  story about  Melina Parker prides herself on being a lady in public, but after she's dumped yet again for being a lady in the bedroom, she's ready to go back to school.  For a lesson in how to be a sex siren, she turns to the safest man she knows.  Max Dalton has been her lifelong friend and the twin brother of  Rhys Dalton who Melina has loved since high school.  Max  sees an opportunity to get the two reluctant love birds together.  He arranges for the  his brother to take his place, and boy do the sparks fly.
I wondered how DePaul was going to pull of this plot without being too cheesy and predictable.  I was surprised to find a couple of  interesting twists and turns that kept the story line interesting.   Before I knew it I was at the end of the book and looking for more.  I really liked Melina.  She's not sexually savvy, but her character isn't naïve or childish like some "good girl" characters can be.  At only 210 pages, this was a great weekend or quick read.  It gave just enough background that you can easily connect with the story without getting bogged down in information. I will be reading more of the Dalton Brothers' adventures and more De Paul. She is definitely going on my favorite authors list.

Overall  Rating:  4 out of 5 Stars
Heat Index:  3 out of 5 Stars

 You can purchase this ebook  for $2.99 at Amazon  (Kindle Edition) or Barnes & Noble (Nook Books)

Read more about Virna DePaul on her Amazon Author's Page or look for news of her new realeases on her web site.

McBride's New Book "Toxic" Is the Opposite of it's Title

 Belinda McBride has a done a great job with this story.  It was captivating right off the bat with an introduction chapter about the story of her mysterious and hard core ex- military Mom.  Needless to say that could have been another great book.  Then she swings you into the story of Briony a sheltered mysterious veterinarian and Rico a were wolf shifter in a small town who are attracted to each other.  Briony knows her mother won't approve of the relationship and Rico's pack has warned him away from Briony.  Fortunately, neither of them is able to resist the attraction.
I liked this book because both of the main characters were believable and a bit shy about revealing their secrets and true selves.  This made them such a cute couple,  and  really believable.  McBride then adds a twist at the end with an unsolved mystery about Briony's  Mom and her sexuality.  I have to admit that this kind of threw me off a bit, but it obviously was meant to lead to another book
This short novel was well worth the cost and the read.  McBride will go in my list of authors to read again and again.


 Heat Index: 3 out of 5 stars
 Overall Index:  3 out of 5 Stars

 You can purchase this book at  Barnes & Noble  (Nook books) or at  Amazon  (Kindle Edition).   Read Belinda McBride's interesting biography at her Amazon  author's page.  You can also keep track of her new releases at her blog Belinda McBride.

Scarlet Lady: A Loveswept Contemporary Classic Romance by Sandra Chastain | 9780307817310 | NOOK Book (eBook) | Barnes & Noble

A Loveswept Contemporary Classic Romance

I spent this weekend reading  Sandra Chastain's novel "The Scarlet Lady".  This was a great story about Katie Carithers, a sister who is the only one who doesn't see her brothers addiction in determination to protect her after their parents' death. After her brother looses the family home on another gambling spree, Katie, a homely accountant, decides to dress up in a sexy distracting outfit and fleece the gambler whom she believes fleeced her "innocent" brother, in order to get their home back.  She didn't plan on the instant attraction to the gambler everyone calls "Montana" who is  the owner of the river boat casino called the "The Scarlet Lady". The attraction  gets so hot, she gives up on the game even though she is winning, only to meet him again later.

Overall this was a fun novel.  Chastain gets a thumbs up for this one.  At 240 pages long, it wasn't too long, and it was  a good story that wasn't too cliché.  It had a few surprises in it toward the end to keep it interesting and a really hot romance to keep it going.  While Katie does seem a bit naïve when she gives all the money she earns back to her brother to pay off his debts (I wanted to strangle her), she still was a great character and I found myself sympathizing with her. 

Overall Rating:

Story:  3 out of 5 stars 
Heat index:   2 of 5 stars. 

About the Author:

Sandra Chastain has published twenty-five novels under the Loveswept imprint. Not only is she the author of more than forty books, she is also one of the co-founders of BelleBooks, along with many other well-known authors. Over the years her work has received many accolades, including the Maggie Award for writing excellence.

You can purchase the paperback or Nook ebook at Barnes & Noble or get the paperback edition or  Kindle edition at Amazon .



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New Release: "Twisted"- Book 5 of the Dark Proctor's Series by Rebecca Zanetti

Release Date: June 20, 2013

Heat Index *** (3 of 5 Stars)

Overall Rating: **** (4 of 5 Starts)

Rebecca Zanetti does it again.  You can always count on her for a great story told in such smooth style and detail that you just don't want to put it down until it's done.  Again I found myself wishing that the story was longer.  Zanetti revisited the secret world of modern para-normals who are fighting against the Kurjans (an evil vampire group).  A decade after being kidnapped by the Kurjans  who experimented on her and being rescued by the Vampires  she has yet to regain her memory.  So when the King sends her to investigate problems in the Raze Pack of wolf-shifters she hopes to find connection to who she was in the past.  She finds Terrent Vilks, a wolf-shifter and deadly assassin she is very attracted to.  But she is not convinced when he declares that he is her mate.  This story was full of sparks and shows Zanetti's lighter and more humorous side. Maggie is an awkward deadly killer who suffers from panic attacks and runs away when she gets stressed.  While this seems like two extremes for one character, Maggie always finds the courage  and the skills she inherently possess inside when she needs it in a fight.

 This is a fun, quick read for all types of romance story lovers. Zanetti has become one of my favorite  writers, she never let's you down,  her stories have something for everyone.  No matter what type  of romance you prefer you won't want to miss a single one of her books.

Bedtime Reading That Won't Put You To Sleep!

Private Places        

by Robin Schone (Author) , Claudia Dain (Author) , Allyson James (Author) , Shiloh Walker (Author) 

                   

This book was a great was a collection of risqué erotic romance stories that are simply great reads that make awesome night stand stories.  I really enjoyed all of the stories (something that I cannot always say).  In Claudia Dain heats up this collection with the story of two voyeuristic young courtesans who boldly orchestrate a seduction in a public theater. Allyson James tells of a card-playing widower who rescues a former sweetheart (a desperate young widow) from  loosing a card game where she is  the prize only to learn that passion is the ultimate wild card. And finally, Shiloh Walker introduces a short story of a woman saved by a hot shape shifter, and how she repays him.  With four steaming short stories, by talented authors, this is nightstand reading that won't put you to sleep.

Read more about each author by clicking on their names.  You can  read a preview and purchase this  book at Amazon or at Barnes & Noble.