Review: The Prince by Tiffany Reisz

Review: The Prince by Tiffany Reisz

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For more information on the author or back cover blurb visit the author's website here. 

The 3rd book in the Original Sinners series left welts, big nasty ones, along with a cliff hanger ending that's got my eyeballs rolling around in my head. We pick up in The Prince where The Angel ended, Nora has left Soren to be with Wesley. Of course she's got Soren's permission to do so of course. What Nora doesn't realize is that Soren's just getting her out of the way. He's on the hunt for the person seeking to harm her, and Kingsley won't stand by and let Soren search alone. Between Nora's antics and attempts to vanilla sex her lifestyle, and Kingsley desperate attempts to seduce Soren back to his bed for one more romp I couldn't put this story down! 

There's 3 sections to this story, and Reisz does a masterful job of weaving in and out them. First we have the North, which follows present day Soren and Kingsley as they attempt to find out who's after Nora. Kingsley could really care less, in his opinion Nora has abandoned them for Wesley. There's also the little bit of Kingsley being in love with Soren... leading up to the 2nd section of the book: Soren and Kingsley's past. How they met, how they came to know one another, and how Kingsley has always been Kingsley. He's flawed, selfish, and just an all around man whore. That is until Soren is able to put him in his place. 

The 3rd and final section is the South, which follows the misadventures of Dominant Queen of the Underground and the Prince of Kentucky. There's horses, races, a few awkward moments with some rich folk, and a couple encounters with the infamous red riding crop. Add in a ton of sexual tension, which of course will lead to some naughty romps and it's an emotional roller coaster. 

What I love: Description, dialogue, and ultimately voice. There's a presence to the writing that screams '"I'm naughty", and this dirty little bit keeps the pages turning. I think characters with flaws and imperfections jump out at me as well. I like knowing that none of the characters are perfect. They possess an innate confidence that I myself lack so I've got some Original Sinner envy too. 

Why this isn't a 5: I knew who the bad guy was. I saw it coming a mile away, and had no problem with the predictions. Also, my personal madness cliff hanger hell. Reisz ends the story with a situation that left my jaw hanging. When the next book will come along is another question. The sensuality and encounters between Soren and Kingsley could affect those faint at heart or those who have suffered from sexual abuse in the past. This is a hardcore story, and not a typical romance or erotica novel. If you're ready to feel emotions from one end of the spectrum to the other Reisz will make sure that happens in all of the Original Sinners books. 

Overall, I liked this story. It wasn't my favorite, that special spot belongs to The Angel. I still love Kingsley, the seriously vain and flawed Frenchman. I've got a soft spot for Soren, but I'm a dominant at heart so I'd like to beat him. I'll keep an eye out for future Original Sinners works, and these grubby paws will definitely be all over them. If I said it once, I'll say it again: "Reisz is a auto buy every time." 

Review: A Waltz at Midnight by Crista McHugh

Review: A Waltz at Midnight by Crista McHugh

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Crista's website here.

When someone begs... no, offers to pay you to write letters to get rid of a suitor just say no!

In Susanna Parkwell's case she can't turn away the offer for a few extra coins. Especially when her brother desperately needs the money to continue his education. What Susanna doesn't expect is to become enthralled with the very man she's supposed to rebuke. Susanna is a bit of a day dreamer, surprisingly enough since she's survived the Civil War and lost everything she holds dear. At the same time Susanna has a practical and near cynical view of the fairy tale ending that she secretly longs for. I do believe the lady protests too much, and indeed it's not long before Susanna finds herself wishing the man behind such poignant responses to her witty diatribe would come and sweep her away.

Theodore at first glance appears to be a bit of weakling. He's guided by his father's purse strings and not much else. When his father informs him that he must marry, and that a match has already been selected he merely gives in to the inevitable. This trait did not endear Theo to me in the least, but I kept reading... hoping for Theo's redemption. Honestly he's a hero, so he better do something amazing. McHugh quickly turned the tables. Theo's capitulation to his father's desires is just one of many facets to his character. The truth of Theo becomes apparent through the correspondence with Susanna. The climatic meeting, and the events that follow are a Cinderella dream.

Overall, A Waltz at Midnight is endearing, and speaks to the little girl inside every woman that's looking for her prince to ride in on the white horse. Researching McHugh's previous writings revealed this is her first foray into the Historical Romance genre. After getting a small taste of what she's capable of, I can only hope there are more Historical Romance books on the horizon from this author!

Review: Tempted by Blood by Laurie London

Review: Tempted by Blood by Laurie London

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Laurie London's website here.

Blue spiked hair, leather, piercings in tantalizing places--Jackson Foss is the ultimate bad boy. He's also a Guardian, sworn to protect humanity from the Darkbloods, vampires that have gone rogue and believe that humans should be cattle. Jackson has always followed the path of the Guardians, but lately he feels his edge is slipping. He's consuming more energy, more blood... and just a hairs breath away from becoming the very thing he's been destroying for over a century.

Arianna is just a girl interested in the paranormal, ever since her mother was attacked and killed by moving shadows. She's on the trail of a missing teenagers in the Seattle area, but her search for information is about to get in her a load of trouble. Enter a gorgeous man with a dragon blade to the rescue. Arianna's not sure if she can trust Jackson, but as the two get closer things heat up. The only question left is can they save each other before the enemy in the dark finds her?

Jackson's description above is missing one thing-- muscles. When I picture this guy he's the ultimate bad boy that has a motorcycle, and naturally attracts the attention of every girl in the bar. He definitely lives up to the reputation, but London finishes the fantasy by giving Jackson a deep and tortured side to. He's definitely got demons fueling his inner fire, and is constantly on the edge. At first glance you think what the other Sweetblood characters do, he's only after a good time. When Arianna comes onto the scene everything changes. Suddenly he's caring about a human in ways he's never felt about anyone. She's got him dangling on a string, and Jackson doesn't like it.

Arianna fights the attraction pretty well. She's more focused on her mission to reveal the truth behind the things lurking in the dark, and protecting her family. I love this character because she's incredibly strong and takes actions that go against the typical female reaction. For example the woman sees a vampire and instead of screaming out in horror she whips out a camera phone and starts snapping photos. London's heroine's are typically made of sterner stuff, but Arianna impresses.

Story flow and pacing are beautiful as always and next to London's first Sweetblood novel, Bonded by Blood, Jackson's story is one of my favorites. The villains are always a delight, and there's a good dose of humor in all the right places... in a few words: My Little Pony. If you want to know why the mention of a child's toy made me giggle you'll just have to read. London is just as amazing at painting a realistic environment, extremely detailed and in tune with our current reality. The vampire mythos in her story is equally engaging, and I hope she'll publish a companion book with stories about the history of the Guardians and the Darkbloods someday.

Overall, Tempted by Blood is a great read. It's fast paced and the action is rampant-- in the bedroom and out of it. The characters have personalities and quirks that drive you to them. Plus, if you're a fan of the series then you won't want to miss previous character appearances. Now, I'll patiently anticipate the next book, which honestly can't come fast enough!

Review: Gypsy Bond by Lindy Corbin

Review: Gypsy Bond by Lindy Corbin

Rating 3.5 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information on this novella visit the Steel Magnolia Press website here. 

What happens when a well-bred lady attempts to regain her Gypsy husband...

A ton of tension, and potential heartache-- that's what happens. Luckily, Corbin is able to successfully pull of a story where both hero and heroine have huge issues, and little hope of making it work.
This novella is a refreshing step of the beaten path of Regency Romance. We have Juliet Bailey, married to a gypsy husband, Marko Lovel, who abandoned her four years ago. Now that his tribe has returned to her father's land, she's bound and determined to reclaim him and her place at his side. But Marko has his reasons for leaving her once, and for his sudden return now. Can Juliet finally convince him of her love, that's never wavered, or will Marko leave her again?

Juliet's character is incredibly strong. She has some guts walking into a gypsy camp, unescorted, and demanding a place by her husband's side. Her husband on the other hand was quite off-putting. At least to start, I didn't care for him, but by the end of the story he grew on me. Marko definitely has the character of a gypsy, quick to offense and quick to possess. I recommend to readers that purchase this story to remember that Marko isn't guided by the same rules or beliefs of Regency lords and gentlemen. His attitudes and actions appear even a little more roguish then most.

Overall, this is a quick read with a delightful ending. Especially since there are 2 other villains in this tale that get a comeuppance. Quirky secondary characters were a delight, and I hope to see more from Corbin involving Gypsy's.

If you enjoyed Lisa Kleypas' first two books in the Hathaway series then this is a must purchase.

Review: Heiress Without A Cause by Sara Ramsey

Review: Heiress Without a Cause by Sara Ramsey

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Sara Ramsey's website here.

He’s been touched… by Mad.

William Ferguson, Duke of Rothwell is my first unconventional hero. Unfortunately, I can’t share why without spoiling the story, but let’s just say that Ramsey knows how to change the rules of the love game. Ferguson was once the most notorious rake of the ton, and his arrival in London is anything but welcome. At the behest of his aunt he needs to secure a chaste, prim chaperone, and he decides on Madeleine Vaillant, spinster in-training.

He called her Mad; his new nickname for the woman hiding the most delicious of secrets. Madeleine is brave and bold for attempting to tread the boards by night and play spinster by day. She thinks she’s done for when Ferguson discovers her secret, but what she doesn’t realize is that his interest has been cemented. He claims his urge to help her finish her acting career, and maintain the façade, is merely a stunt to protect his sisters from certain ruin if Madeleine’s ruse is uncovered. Yet the steps required are scandalous…

Oh, how I love to see a rake fall. It’s a popular trope and for good reason, the bad boy is conquered. Ramsey’s debut is a good read, with villains, subterfuge and a romance one would never suspect. It’s easy to become engaged in the thrill of the forbidden, as Madeleine attempts to navigate the fine lines between propriety, and the freeing world of the demimonde. What made the story enjoyable is that Ramsey didn’t allow her characters to get away with anything; creating a more realistic environment. Plus, there were some secondary characters that I can’t wait to read about, specifically Madeleine’s staid cousin Lord Alex Staunton and Ferguson’s sister, Ellie.

There were a few moments where characters acted a little out of place, and I expected a little more conflict as well. Overall, the plot is buttoned-up, the storyline interesting, and this book is a good read for a rainy day.

Review: Not Wicked Enough by Carolyn Jewel

Review: Not Wicked Enough by Carolyn Jewel

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Release Date: February 7th, 2012

For back cover blurb, excerpt, and more information about this book visit Carolyn Jewel's website here.

A wickedly stunning start to a new series!

Lady Lily Wellstone is on a mission to save her widowed friend Eugenia from certain demise, at the hands of emotional sorrow and grief. Her arrival at the Bitterward Estate is only a mission of mercy. What Lily doesn’t expect is to find an attraction to Eugenia’s brother, the Duke of Mountjoy; a wicked name in and of itself!

Soon all bets are off as neither she nor he can deny the attraction they have toward each other. The only problem is Mountjoy’s impending engagement, and Lily’s firm insistence that love is a snare she will never succumb to again. Regardless of their impediments, Mountjoy and Lily find themselves often at odds and alone, leaving room for all manner of wicked things.

Jewel once again creates a cast of stellar characters that are a constant source of amusement. Lily is definitely a good mix of worldly and feisty all-in-one. She’s not afraid to try anything once, is a mastermind when it comes to fashion, and seeks the joy each new day can bring. This woman almost seems fearless. Yet, there is some weakness about her, especially when the prospects of intimate emotions toward a male are mentioned. Honestly I kept wondering if anything ever fazed Lily. She’s uncharacteristically strong which appealed and slightly repelled me. At the end I was more of a disposition to love her than rebuke her, since she is able to overcome the few fears that she has.

Mountjoy on the other hand was the one that needed saving. He’s just a big, hot, fashion-lacking mess! Luckily Lily is exactly the person that can turn his world on end and save him from himself. He’s a little overbearing and absent— absorbed in his own duty. I can say that this character is frustrating once you get to know him, and his journey through the course of the book is what I enjoyed the most.

Secondary cast members are equally likable; paving way for what I know will be a delicious continuance. One other thing to mention is that Jewel shocked me. I really can’t find the words to allude as to how, but let’s just say that ‘personal’ interactions were a bit different and I liked it. The title fits this story perfectly, and if you’re looking for a heroine that is outside the norm Lily Wellstone is the one you seek.

P.S. The cover alone is pure wickedness!

Review: Mad About the Earl by Christina Brooke

Review: Mad About the Earl by Christina Brooke

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Christina Brooke's website here.

Usually beauty tames the beast…

Lady Rosamund Westruther has been matched by the Ministry of Marriage to marry Griffith, Earl of Tregarth since childhood. She’s accepted her arranged marriage with decorum and believes in her duty, as all proper ladies should. Until the stubborn, inattentive man refuses to offer her respect, and demands her attendance to his wishes; even though he’s put off their marriage for years since the official announcement of their engagement.

Traveling to London to retrieve his obstinate fiancé, Griffith expects to gather his future bride and return to his home without suffering the ridicule or prying eyes of the ton. What he doesn’t expect is Rosamund to flat out refuse him if he doesn’t court her. Griffith knows he’s brutish, and lacks the manners that polite society requires. The idea of paying court to the most beautiful woman he’s ever met seems an impossible task. But something about Rosamund spurs him on, and for some reason this woman seems just as enthralled with him.

The second installment in Brooke’s Ministry of Marriage series is captivating, and wickedly clever. The author draws you in with her characters, every last one. From a tortured hero and heroine to the villains waiting in the wing, I couldn’t get enough. Rosamund is just as tortured for her beauty and connections, as Griffith is ridiculed for his size and arresting looks. From a visual standpoint these two are polar opposites, internally their similar creatures. Both seek to create a new image for themselves, Rosamund by escaping the ton and becoming a wife, and Griffith by overcoming his insecurities about his image and actions.

Add in a viper of a mother, a jilted would-be beau, a murder and you’ve got a jam-packed book from start to finish. Luckily, Brooke doesn’t leave any loose ends. She does a good job of tying up the story lines, and giving everyone a better look at the other members of the Westruther brood; including the male Westruther’s, whom readers haven’t seen too much of yet. My only caveat was that I felt the back end of the book’s pace was a little bit slower than I anticipated. Nothing to throw fits about, but it ruined some of the enchantment for me.

Overall, Brooke’s sequel to An Heiress in Love is a good read, and will keep you on your toes. If you enjoy stories that provide lead characters in need of mutual rescue this is a for sure purchase.

Review: Undeniably Yours by Shannon Stacey

Review: Undeniably Yours by Shannon Stacey

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more info about this book visit Shannon Stacey's website here.

Sometimes the most unexpected thing turns into something wonderful…

While I’m a fan of the Kolwaski clan and Stacey’s contemporary romance series, Undeniably Yours is not the best of the bunch. The second story in this series is focused on Kevin Kolwaski, divorced bar owner, and Beth Hansen, a one-night stand that quickly becomes something more.

Kevin is wonderful as an established businessman with a good heart. Beth comes to him with the news she’s carrying his child, and he immediately wants to do right by her. Unfortunately, a sheltered childhood has left Beth with a severe independent streak. She doesn’t want any help or need any help. An unplanned pregnancy is the last thing Beth wants to deal with, but her options become limited once the Kolwaski clan finds out about her impending birth.

Stacey brings back the Kolwaski clan in book 2 with more fervor and determination. Baby carrying Beth doesn’t know what to make of this family determined to welcome her into the fold. Kevin, settled with the idea of becoming a dad, is more than happy to assist Beth and downright welcomes the chance to pursue their relationship. Beth is having none of it though, as she insists on limited help and only a friendship.

What made this book downright annoying is Beth. Her character is a little overboard with the independence, and the belief that everyone is trying to control her. Halfway through the book these musings get a little old and multiple times I wanted to strangle Beth’s stubborn streak into submission. It definitely took a little too long for this character to grow. Kevin on the other hand is a hero to snag and never let go. He’s the caring and sentimental type. While determined to try his best to win Beth over, he respects her wishes and is honest in his expectations and desires.

There is also a second plot involving Kevin’s bar manager Pauly. This secondary plot was interesting, but I desired a little more meat in the main plot. I wanted there to be more Kevin and Beth rather than just an unplanned pregnancy, and Beth’s ‘I don’t need help’ stance whenever Kevin tries to get close. Regardless of my personal feelings, the dialogue and emotions were realistic, and the plot well-paced.
Overall, the story is good if you can overcome Beth’s continuous issues. Some readers may appreciate Beth’s attitudes and thoughts as good conflict; though you may find more interest in the secondary storyline and the re-appearance of many Kolwaski family favorites.

Review: Forever and a Day by Delilah Marvelle

Review: Forever and a Day by Delilah Marvelle

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

For more information and back cover blurb about this book visit Delilah Marvelle's site here.

Marvelle does it again-- weaving a miraculous tale of love, passion, and ultimate sacrifice in Forever and a Day. I've enjoyed Marvelle's style and ability of creating characters that are large then life in the past, Georgia and Roderick are no exception.
Georgia is just a poor woman who happens to have a master thief for a stepson and dreams of owning her own property out west, as soon as she can get the money. The arrival of Lord Roderick Yardley, or as he calls himself in his amnesiac state, Robinson, puts a slight kink in future dreams. Robinson is a paradox of sorts. A kind and thoughtful man, yet possessive and overcome with desire for his fiery haired, Irish caretaker.

It took a little while to get these two paired off, but once they were... what a joyride! Marvelle's storytelling will constantly leave you guessing, and you never know how much of the story you will get. What makes the tale enjoyable is how these two people from the different classes and lifestyles adjust to each other. The attraction between them is maddening, and the connection they form, with Robinson having no idea what his real life is like, will have you praying for an HEA.

Without spoiling the ending I will say that the final chapters of the book had me at a loss. Hence the reason for a 3.5 rating. I just felt the ending was too abrupt and I desired to revel in the magic a bit longer. If I'd been given one more chapter then my appetite would have probably been sated. I would say that the ending was also a little anti-climatic and didn't seem to fit Roderick and Georgia's style.

Overall, this story is enticing. The characters are memorable. The language colorful, and this historical breaks away from the traditional rules. Setting covers the grimy areas of New York City to the fanciful Rotten Row of London. This is the first book in a new series with a recently released novella serving as a prologue. If you like mystery, passion, and the least likely to come out a winner then Forever and a Day is one to read.

Review: My Ruthless Prince by Gaelen Foley

Review: My Ruthless Prince by Gaelen Foley

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Gaelen Foley's website here.
Expert hunter and servant, Emily Harper doesn’t believe that her master has turned against his Inferno Club brothers, and joined forces with the dreaded Promethean Order. The only logical explanation is that he’s been kidnapped or brainwashed, and she’s determined to rescue him. Unfortunately, nothing is what it seems, and Drake won’t leave the traitor’s camp no matter what Emily promises to give him.

Drake, the Earl of Westwood, is bent on suicide and redeeming his sins by bringing down the evil Promethean’s from the inside. When Emily arrives to rescue him and endangers her safety, he has no choice but to drag her into his own plans. He’s determined to keep his emotions, and desire for her at bay. Yet each passing danger and night spent in close quarters, bring him closer to revealing everything; including his love for her. When the Promethean leader James asks him to make the ultimate sacrifice, Emily’s life, Drake must make the decision of whether revenge against the men who tortured him is worth more than the love of this innocent’s soul.

My first Inferno Club novel and I loved it! For a historical, this book provided something different. The secret societies, remote location in foreign Eastern Europe, and the premise that no one was exempt from possible death kept me reading. I found Foley’s characters and story telling to be worth the late-night hours I spent in attempt to discover if Emily and Drake would ever achieve an HEA.

The fact that Emily is no simpering miss was a huge appeal. I love this character’s back story, and that her innocence and love is what inspires Drake to survive. She’s definitely a perfect fit for the war-wounded Drake. Of course if you love dark heroes with issues and secrets, then Drake is definitely one you will find yourself falling for. Getting in his head and understanding the method behind the madness was something that appealed to that inner part of me that would love to grant a bad boy redemption.

For faithful readers of the series there may be some tears shed, I won’t say why and you’ll have to just buy it to find out. Characters from previous books do make an appearance, and there is plenty of action thrown in for those who enjoy seeing the Inferno Club members wielding weaponry. Overall, a delicious read that will have me reaching into the bank account for funds to secure Foley’s back list. Fans of Charlotte Featherstone are sure to enjoy this one.

Review: Hot Zone by Catherine Mann

Review: Hot Zone by Catherine Mann

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

For backcover blurb and more information about this book and others in the series visit Catherine Mann's website.

A romantic suspense that grabs you from the second chapter…
Hugh Franco lives on the edge as a pararescueman, and worries more about saving the lives of others rather than forming connections. Hugh’s on the straight and narrow until his rescue mission puts him in contact with Amelia. Now he’s checking on her and her nephew in the hospital; concerned with emotions he hasn’t felt in a long time. When Amelia and her nephew are kidnapped, Hugh doesn’t think twice about jumping onto the back of van and doing his damnedest to save them. Even if embedding them into his life is cracking away the emotional blockade around his heart.

Amelia just wants to keep her nephew safe, at least until she can find his mother and father. The survival instinct is raging, and she can’t stop dwelling on her attraction to Hugh. He’s gone out of his way to help her, in more ways then she can count. As the danger increases and she’s forced into closer quarters with Hugh, Amelia has to decide if her feelings are just spurned by the circumstances or if her heart truly falling for this superman.

The second book in Mann’s Elite Force series is definitely not one to judge by the first pages. At first I didn’t believe I would get into the story. The idea of a romance unfolding at the scene of an earthquake seemed a little far-fetched for me. The setting and background were heart breaking, and emotional; nothing escapist about it. Mann has a penchant for grabbing you with emotion—feelings cold, warm, raw and afflicted. The characters were deep and quickly entangled my thoughts until I had to know if Hugh and Amelia were going to overcome the ridiculous odds. When I say ridiculous, I mean just that because everywhere this pair turned there was trouble—earthquake shakes, gun wielding fanatics, you name it. Regardless of the tension and conflicts Mann does a miraculous job of balancing internal issues with external, giving readers a chance to get lost in the minds of two people focused on survival, while dealing with a ton of emotional baggage from their past.

There is one subplot I could have done without, which involves Hugh’s superior, Liam McCabe. The addition of this added a little too much head jumping. I would have enjoyed just a Hugh and Amelia story versus getting involved in the early directions of McCabe’s story that is coming up in the next book. For me this killed or numbed my emotions, and slowed the story down. I was more enthralled with the direct romance between Hugh and Amelia.

Overall, Mann is excellent at keeping the suspense rolling, and once you get into the story you can’t help but wonder if someone is going to end up severely hurt or worse. A good read if you’re looking for something to start on in the suspense arena.

*As reviewed for The Season, can be seen in the upcoming Jan. issue.

Review: Pride and Passion by Charlotte Featherstone

Review: Pride and Passion by Charlotte Featherstone

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

For back cover blurb, excerpt, and more info visit Charlotte Featherstone's website here.

The Brethren are on the hunt for a killer…

Adrian York, Duke of Sussex, is searching for the Brethren enemy Orpheus. His only lead is a handkerchief with the initials of Lucy Stonebrook. The unfortunate thing is that Adrian loves Lucy, desires to marry her, but upon presenting the evidence Lucy claims the article belongs to a previous lover. Adrian doesn’t know what this lover meant to Lucy, but he’s bound and determined to catch the man and ensnare Lucy’s heart and soul one way or another.

Lucy sees the Duke of Sussex as her enemy. The lover she believed to be dead is back, and Lucy feels he’s incapable of committing the murder that Adrian accuses him of. She refuses to marry Adrian based on that fact, and the belief that he is a stuck up prig filled with no passion. Yet passion simmers underneath the surface of Adrian’s control, and Lucy finds out quickly that small missteps only bring it forth. Can Lucy and Adrian overcome the issues of their present or is pride unable to be overcome by passion?

This is Featherstone’s second book in the Brethren Guardian series. It’s a delicious read chock full of mystery, intrigue, and a compelling hero that captivates from the start. I love duke stories. I love seemingly arrogant windbags who turn out to be more than what they seem. Featherstone delivers a duke that fits all those desperate desires of my heart in Adrian York. He’s a man that believes in keeping passion tethered, afraid that if it gets lose then he’s not worthy in the role of a duke. Unfortunately, Lucy sets him afire, dashing his labored attempts to keep his desires under control. Like in this one scene where Adrian has just ended Lucy’s hopes of meeting her previous lover:

“Does your father know what you’re about tonight?”

“Oh, certainly,” she replied mockingly. “I shook him awake and informed him I was going traipsing through Mayfair in the dead of night to meet with the man who took my innocence.”

It was as though an electric bolt lanced through him.

With a savage oath, he picked through the bag until he came across a folded piece of paper. Her eyes widened, but their expression taunted him, dared him to unfold this bit of private correspondence, which did nothing to ease his riled, and feral—not to mention sexually frustrated—mood.

“So this is the damning evidence, is it?”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

“We’ll see soon enough, won’t we?”

Opening it, he read the contents, and saw red as every vessel in his head began to bleed, leeching blood from his brain, to his eyes, until his vision was swimming in crimson.

“What the devil do you mean by obeying this summons? Alone? In the dark? My God, when I think of what might have happened to you. You’re reckless… a danger to yourself,” he huffed quickly losing his control. “You ought to be tied up for your own good and safety and given to a man who will make it his life’s purpose to keep you out of mischief.”

He reached for the cravat that lay pooled on the table.

“What do you mean by this?” she snapped as he began to bind her hands.

“What does it look like?”

“Untie me at once. Oooh,” she stammered as she stamped her foot against the floor, trying to connect with his foot. The foot wouldn’t hurt half as much as his groin still did. “You cannot do this!”

“I assure you, my love, I can. And I am doing a fine job of it.”

Lucy’s character is a moderately likable, and seems to be filled with enough pride to cover the Eastern seaboard. She’s quick to judge and barely peeks beneath the surface of a person. Lucy is reminiscent of a person so absorbed with their desires and losses that they can’t be brought out of their internal dreams easily. In fact, it took half the book and a shocking revelation to get Lucy to see beyond herself. This made it a tad difficult to find something to like about Lucy, but eventually her pride abated. Once she climbed out of her self-absorbed shell it was easy to see how Adrian could love her.

Overall, the book is a delicious read for those in want of a strong, passion driven hero. I couldn’t put it down, even though Lucy is not the most ideal heroine. One other note, don’t expect full resolutions in this story, as Featherstone seeks to entice rather than satisfy.

Review: A Clockwork Christmas

Review: A Clockwork Christmas by Stacy Gail, PJ Forte, Jenny Schwartz, J.K. Coi

For back cover blurb and more information about this book visit Stacy Gail's Blog here. She has additional posts featuring her anthology sisters from A Clockwork Christmas. This anthology is published by Carina Press and released Monday December 5th, 2011. Get it now!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Nothing says Christmas like clocks, mechanical limbs, tortured souls, and some steamy windows!

Form the ingenious minds of four exciting authors, comes an anthology that will keep you reading until the wee hours of the morn'. These steampunk tales based around the Christmas holiday take readers on a journey across the globe; from the Victorian streets of New England to the shores of Australia, and a couple of other exciting hot spots in between. Fall in love through bitter separations, heart wrenching recoveries, and even a robbery that involves stealing not just an item, but a heart!

Crime Wave in a Corset

Cornelia Peabody thought she was going to steal her way to peace and tranquility, until previous victim, Roderick Coddington, slaps a deadly timepiece on her wrist. With 7 days ‘til to live Cornelia has no choice but to steal back the priceless piece Coddington wants. What neither of them expects is the desirous emotions conjured by their odd partnership or the feelings evoked by the Christmas season.

This Winter Heart

Ophelia is the last person in the world her husband, Dario, wants to see. She’s desperate for funds, and assistance, since her father has passed on and her family has abandoned her. Yet Dario is unwilling to take her back, even with Ophelia’s astounding revelation. Can Dario accept Ophelia for who she is, even if she’s not the typical definition of human?

Wanted: One Scoundrel

Esme Smith, suffragette extraordinaire, is on the hunt for a male to represent her political party ideals. Jed Reeve is captivated by Esme’s strength and desires. He’s not a political activist, but when presented with Esme’s unique opportunity he can’t resist accepting. In the midst of trying to do the job he was hired for, Jed finds himself embroiled in a nefarious scheme, with everything from blackmail to kidnapping. Can he prove he’s more than just a scoundrel and win the girl too?

Far From Broken

Jasper Carlisle was willing to deal with the devil if he could save his wife, appealing to his devious superior was literally the same thing. Callie was saved, but at the cost of having her limbs and body invaded by mechanical limbs and nano technology. She doesn’t believe she’ll ever be whole again and has a hard time forgiving Jasper for forcing her to live rather than die after the deadly attack. In the midst of their reunion a killer waits. Someone who knows what happened to Callie on that unfortunate night, and who’s willing to do anything to destroy them both.

Honestly this is the first anthology where all the stories have equally impressed me. All four stories are unique and compelling in their own right. Each author does an amazing job of evoking emotion and creating characters that are relatable. The Christmas theme is present and endearing, making each tale even more romantic. Another fabulous detail about this anthology is that the stories are based in different locales across the world, proving that the spirit of Christmas can be found everywhere; not just in one country or nation.

My favorite story was Gail’s Crime Wave in a Corset. Peabody and Coddington are a fabulous pair, from their interactions to their potential romance. The story is fast paced and a page turner; one you can’t put down. At the same Forte, and Coi did a phenomenal job of creating a steampunk environment, by allowing characters from their stories to embody the essence of steampunk physically. I found the scientific aspects in both of their stories to be extremely interesting and captivating.

Overall, this anthology gives new perspectives, and adds to the fascinating world of the steampunk genre. I look forward to reading more from each of these authors in the future. If you’re on the hunt for something new in the world of Christmas tales A Clockwork Christmas should be on your purchase list.

Review: Desired by Nicola Cornick

Review: Desired by Nicola Cornick

Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars

For back cover info visit Nicola Cornick's site

She’s considered one the most scandalous women in society…

Tess Darent is not the most impeccable member of the ton. A widow three times over, and known for her unusual tastes, every man in London seems to desire an opportunity with her behind closed doors. Yet, Tess has secrets that would do far more then ruin her reputation and all is about to be revealed.

Owen Purchase, recently named Viscount Rothbury, is on the hunt for a traitor to the crown and potentially a wife. When clues point him in the direction of Tess, she makes a tempting offer—marriage. Tess may think she’s getting a complacent husband willing to acquiesce to her every wish, but Owen has other ideas. Tess may find that secrets aren’t worth keeping, and what she truly desires is what she least expected.

I loved Owen. He’s intelligent, witty, and absolutely refuses to be run roughshod by anyone. He is literally a savior for Tess, since she has a mountain of baggage trailing behind her. Tess is definitely a multi-layered character, and you get to see two sides to a woman that was probably not a favorite in previous novels. The underlying theme I got from this book was that people use masks to hide their true selves or weaknesses. Owen and Tess come together and strip away those masks from each other. The journey the pair takes is filled with intrigue, emotion and definitely sexual tension; which is something Tess is desperately trying to avoid. A good tense-filled moment is after Tess asks Owen to marry her, he agrees but there’s a question as to whether Tess will commit or back out:

“And I will call on you tomorrow,” Owen finished, with a great deal of satisfaction.


A tiny frown wrinkled her brow. “Call on me?”


“Unless,” Owen said, powerless to prevent the heavy irony that now coloured his voice, “you prefer me simply to send you a note with the wedding date so that you can meet me in church?”


“Oh…” She smiled deliciously, an echo of the superficially charming Tess Darent who was all pretence. “Yes, that would be extremely helpful of you. As this is a marriage of convenience I don’t think we need see each other a great deal before the ceremony.”


She started to walk towards the door. Owen took two strides backwards and reached for the handle just before she did. Her body collided with his. She felt warm, soft and yielding; Owen’s senses clouded with the scent of her and the heat of her skin. Desire flowered through him again as fiercely as it had done the previous night. He caught her wrist.


“I will not be a conformable husband, Lady Darent,” he warned. “You do not issue me with tasks and expect me to obey without question. I am not reversing the wedding vows along with everything else.”


Beneath his fingers he could feel her pulse racing. Her glove was no protection against the insistence of his touch.

And it just gets better. I loved the way these characters interacted with each other. Both have forthright natures that clash consistently, but create the most wonderful romantically charged moments.

This book is the fifth in Cornick’s Scandalous Women of the Ton series, and the second one I’ve read. I can honestly say that Cornick does not disappoint. Another character arc is wrapped up in this story, and for faithful readers of the series you may or may not be happy to know that the villainous Tom returns. Of course, other series characters are present throughout the story, and help create some interesting situations for Owen and Tess. The only thing that threw me off is the last quarter of the book went extremely different from what I envisioned. Although I was happy with the end, I expected a little more leading up to it.

Overall, a good read and fans of Courtney Milan are sure to enjoy this one.

*Original reviewed for The Season online E-zine. Be sure to check out other topic picks for December in the Historical Romance category at The Season site.

Blog Joy Saturday- November 12, 2011

Just realized the automaton never posted this like it was supposed to. *Shakes fist at computer screen* Devils, I say. Sorry for the delay... I'm calm now. Moving onward.

Today's blog joy is for the Romance Book blogs. These book blogs either review, giveaway, and/or interview romance authors about their latest releases. Most of the blogs are must subscribe or visit daily as there is always something good going on.

Let's start with the Romance Bandits! I talk about these ladies a lot. Some of my favorite romance writers blog with them including Anna Campbell, who guested on my Writing Profession series. They have a new website, the blogger site is now shutdown. Except the new site is even better, more links, more fun, and just more everything. Check it out here.

Next up The Season. This blog has the best giveaways I've ever seen. Books just fly from this blog on a continuous basis. Plus there is a huge amount of reviews, free reads, publishing info and more. To be honest I currently review for this site and love it! Of course I'm going to tell you all to go and visit. I can promise that you won't regret it if you're a romance lover.

Finally two other review blogs make it to BJS. Both are romance review blogs and awesome of course!

We have the lovely Rita Jett on Not Another Romance Blog . Now the posts are not as hot and heavy this year as in previous ones because the lovely blog creator is busy and toiling away at schooling. Regardless she does tend to get some of the best on dits and I still recommend that you put the site on your radar.

Then there's Romancing Rakes. Ran by the ever naughty and wicked Kati R. You can find her on twitter but her review blog is completely enchanting. By enchanting I mean that Kati is honest and wonderful. She reviews a lot of different books and there's always some good recommendations on her site. I easily get lost for at least an hour whenever I visit.

Now these are my topic picks, but as always I'm open to trying new sites and things. Do you have a favorite review blog for romance, sci-fi, YA, or other genres? Where should I go? Tell me! :)