Sinful Stories Book Blog

Taking a Break

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 16:18:00 +0000

While I haven't had time to write full reviews for a bit, I have still been reading plenty of books and will continue to post my ratings to Goodreads! Check out my page to see what new books I've enjoyed.

A Rake's Midnight Kiss by Anna Campbell (Sons of Sin #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 16:11:00 +0000

A Rake's Midnight Kiss by Anna Campbell

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A much lighter romance than some of Campbell's other works. This witty and sensual story is my favorite of her books so far.

Sons of Sin
1. Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed
1.5 Days of Rakes and Roses
2. A Rake's Midnight Kiss
3. What a Duke Dares

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It Takes A Lady

Brilliant scholar Genevieve Barrett knows how to keep a secret. Her identity as the author of her father's academic articles has always been her greatest deception—until a charming housebreaker tries to steal the mysterious Harmsworth Jewel from her. She doesn't reveal that she recognizes her father's devastatingly handsome new student as the thief himself. For Genevieve, this will be the most seductive secret of all...

To Catch A Thief

Sir Richard Harmsworth has been living a lie, maintaining a rakish façade to show society that he doesn't care about his status as a bastard. Yet long haunted by his unknown father's identity, Richard believes the Harmsworth Jewel will confirm his claim as the rightful heir. But when Richard sets out to seduce the bookworm who possesses the stone, he instead falls for its beautiful owner. But even as she steals Richard's heart, Genevieve will be in greater danger than her coveted treasure.

My Thoughts:

All of Campbell's books I've read so far have been quite dark and angsty, but this one was definitely on the lighter side. And I really enjoyed it. The characters were still tortured by their place in society, with Robert bearing the name of a bastard and Genevieve struggling to make a name for herself in academia. Of course there was still evil afoot, but overall, I actually felt really happy after reading this one! This was not the most original plot...a witty bluestocking, a misunderstood rake, lies and deception. We've seen it all before, but I think with Campbell's mixture of seriousness and sensuality that she adds to her plots, this was a pretty captivating story.

I loved the interplay between Genevieve and Robert. Genevieve was a strong, independent woman who would never give in to a man's seduction...except Robert had a ridiculous amount of charm. I mean honestly, Genevieve didn't stand a chance, and she knew it from the start. Instead of being unbelievable, I found their early interactions pretty humorous. While Robert did have to coax Genevieve to accept the connection between them, their passion was pretty darn steamy as I've come to expect from Campbell's romances. I especially enjoyed seeing how the love between Genevieve and Robert became more important to both than their need to prove themselves to society. It was truly a beautifully written romance.

This story is probably my favorite of Campbell's (so far, at least). It still has that hint of darkness with her deplorable villains, but the romance was just so uplifting. The characters were fun and witty and helped to balance out the darker parts, and I found myself smiling more often than not throughout this book.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Anna Campbell

The Perilous Sea by Sherry Thomas (The Elemental Trilogy #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 16:08:00 +0000

The Perilous Sea by Sherry Thomas

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Bottom Line: A good continuation of the first book, but lacked an exciting plot of its own.

The Elemental Trilogy
1. The Burning Sky
2. The Perilous Sea

Synopsis (Goodreads):

After spending the summer away from each other, Titus and Iolanthe (still disguised as Archer Fairfax) are eager to return to Eton College to resume their training to fight the Bane. Although no longer bound to Titus by a blood oath, Iolanthe is more committed than ever to fulfilling her destiny—especially with the agents of Atlantis quickly closing in.

Soon after arriving at school, though, Titus makes a shocking discovery, one that makes him question everything he previously believed about their mission. Faced with this devastating realization, Iolanthe is forced to come to terms with her new role, while Titus must choose between following his mother's prophecies—and forging a divergent path to an unknowable future.

My Thoughts:

The first thing I thought when I started this book was "did I miss a book or something?" Thomas starts this story off with Iola and Titus in the middle of the Sahara desert with no recollection of each other or how they got there. The book then continues on alternating between Iola and Titus making their way through Atlantis' traps in the desert, and the events at Eton leading up to the desert. I am definitely not a huge fan of timeline hopping stories, and it was definitely a shock after the first book which followed a logical time sequence. But while it was a bit too much for my tired mind to comprehend at first (I think it was 2 AM when I started this), I don't think the skipping was too detrimental to the story.

This story was, as expected, a continuation of Titus and Iola's adventures from the previous story. Unfortunately, it wasn't much more than a continuation, as there was no real separate plot for this book. Now don't misunderstand...there were a lot of important things that happened in this story. Titus' prophesies nearly ruin everything, Atlantis continues to make moves against Titus and Iola, and some surprising allies reveal themselves. But overall, this story seemed to be just a link between the last story and the final book (which is expected in about a YEAR by the way... I am not patient enough for this). Overall, this had a lot of the merits of the first book, but I had to wait for the last 10% or so of the story for most of the action.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Sherry Thomas

The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas (The Elemental Trilogy #1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 06:51:00 +0000

The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Bottom Line: This story has a well developed magic system with some very strong characters and a very sweet romance.

The Elemental Trilogy
1. The Burning Sky
2. The Perilous Sea

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It all began with a ruined elixir and a bolt of lightning.

Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation—or so she's been told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of The Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the most powerful tyrant and mage the world has ever known. This would be a suicide task for anyone, let alone a reluctant sixteen-year-old girl with no training.

Guided by his mother's visions and committed to avenging his family, Prince Titus has sworn to protect Iolanthe even as he prepares her for their battle with the Bane. But he makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the tyrant closing in, Titus must choose between his mission—and her life.

The Burning Sky—the first book in the Elemental Trilogy—is an electrifying and unforgettable novel of intrigue and adventure.

My Thoughts:

I'm ashamed to say it, but sometimes I forget how great a book can be without dirty, passionate romance. This book was absolutely wonderful. As the first YA book I've read in several months, I must say I really enjoyed the innocence of this story. The romance (while certainly not the main plot) was really adorable, and the action was exciting and a little whimsical.

I thought the magic system in this story was well thought out while still being fairly original. The magic realm was separate from the human realm, but overlapping in some locations, allowing mages to travel between both realms. There are magical creatures, instant teleportation spells (super handy), and some really useful enchanted training books. If some aspects of this magic system are a bit too convenient, I'm willing to let it slide, because I feel that everything worked well with Thomas' plot.

Prince Titus and Iolanthe were brought together by Titus' mother's prophesies, and the plot is primarily driven by these prophesies. While it was a little annoying how strongly Titus held too his mother's visions, I think it was a necessary character flaw. It was interesting to consider whether Titus would give up the prophesies as his trust in Iolanthe grew. The relationship between Titus and Iola was fun and sweet. Titus generally played the part of the lovesick puppy, while Iola was all business, but it actually didn't get overly obnoxious. Their developing relationship fit in nicely with the much more important saving-the-world parts of the story.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Sherry Thomas

Lord of Wicked Intentions by Lorraine Heath (Lost Lords of Pembrook #3)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 07:50:00 +0000

Lord of Wicked Intentions by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A perfect conclusion to the trilogy. The relationship between Rafe and Evelyn was developed beautifully.

Lost Lords of Pembrook
1. She Tempts the Duke
2. Lord of Temptation
2.5 Deck the Halls with Love
3. Lord of Wicked Intentions

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Only one woman can break through his heart of stone...

Three young heirs, imprisoned by an unscrupulous uncle, escaped—to the sea, to the streets, to faraway battle—awaiting the day when they would return to reclaim their birthright...

Lord Rafe Easton may be of noble blood, but survival taught him to rely only on himself and to love no one. Yet when he sets his eyes on Miss Evelyn Chambers, and earl's illegitimate daughter, he is determined to have her, if only as his mistress.

After her father's death, Evelyn Chambers never imagined she would be sold to the highest bidder, yet circumstances give her little choice except to accept the lord's indecent proposal. Rafe is wealthy, as well as ruthless. Yet his coldness belies deep passion and deeper secrets. If she must be his, Evelyn intends to lay bare everything the Lord of Pembrook is hiding. But dark discoveries threaten to destroy them both until unexpected love guides the last lost lord home.

My Thoughts:

This was the ending to the series I had been hoping for. Rafe was by far the most emotionally damaged of the "Lost Lords" after spending his childhood abandoned by his family in a workhouse, working in the mines, and falling into the brutal business of surviving in the streets of London. On top of this, Rafe never forgave his brothers for leaving him. I happened to read Courtney Milan's Unraveled (which I also recommend) the week before this book, and while they are certainly different stories, the plots share some similarities, so I had to struggle to keep the plots from jumbling together in my mind.

Evelyn was honestly the perfect woman for Rafe. I am so happy Heath paired these two together in this story. Evelyn was an illegitimate daughter of an Earl, and while her father always sheltered her from the scrutiny of society, she learns after his death that life for an illegitimate child is not as easy without a protector. Evelyn's step brother (who is truly the scum of the earth) is tasked with looking out for her future, which he resentfully interprets as selling her (literally) to the nastiest man he can find. Seriously, her brother is horrible. I can't get over it. Luckily, Rafe steps in and takes Evelyn as his own mistress...ok it doesn't sound that romantic, but it was. These two have some serious chemistry.

The story proceeds much as you would expect a romance between a damaged rake and sweet, innocent girl to go, but again I give Heath props for really making this story memorable. Rafe tries very hard to remind himself that he is a bad person and doesn't deserve any happiness, but everything he does is just adorable sweetness wrapped up in a prickly package. Evelyn is strong enough to deal with his outward gruffness and to confront him when he believes he doesn't deserve happiness. She's the perfect person to help him accept love and reconcile with his family. This book resolved all the unsolved problems throughout the series, and I think I enjoyed the series as a whole even more after reading this third book.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath

Lord of Temptation by Lorraine Heath (Lost Lords of Pembrook #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 21:12:00 +0000

Lord of Temptation by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: The characters were much more lovable in this story than the first, though Tristan's whole "the sea is my only mistress" junk got old pretty quick.

Lost Lords of Pembrook
1. She Tempts the Duke
2. Lord of Temptation
2.5 Deck the Halls with Love
3. Lord of Wicked Intentions

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Three young heirs, imprisoned by an unscrupulous uncle, escaped—to the sea, to the streets, to faraway battle—awaiting the day when they would return to reclaim their birthright.

Once upon a time, he was Lord Tristan Easton—now he is Crimson Jack, a notorious privateer beholden to none, whose only mistress is the sea. But all that will change when exquisite Lady Anne Hayworth hires his protection on a trip into danger and seduction. . .

Desperation brought Anne to the bronzed, blue-eyed buccaneer. But after the Captain demands a kiss as his payment, desire will keep her at his side. She has never known temptation like this—but to protect her heart, she knows she must leave him behind. Yet Tristan cannot easily forget the beauty—and when they meet again in a London ballroom, he vows he won't lose her a second time, as fiery passion reignited takes them into uncharted waters that could lead the second lost lord home. . .

My Thoughts:

I read the first book in this series a few months ago, and while I wasn't super impressed with it, I figured it was time to give the second book a shot. This series follows three brothers who had to separate as young boys and flee from their uncle who wanted them dead so he could inherit the Dukedom. While the conflict with their uncle was resolved in She Tempts the Duke, each brother was left with scars (both physical and emotional) from their unusual upbringing. Tristan, the Duke's twin brother, was sent off to sea at the age of 14. While he had a rough start, Tristan eventually grew to love the sea and found he wanted nothing more than to captain his ship. After Lady Anne hires him out for a short journey at sea, he finds himself unable to forget her.

Tristan and Anne were both lovable characters. Anne was strong, loyal, and honest with herself and others. Tristan...ok we love him because he is a scoundrel. He really did just ooze seduction. I enjoyed how Anne was able to hold her own against him, but I enjoyed it even more how she accepted the passion between them. After Tristan and Anne's adventure at sea is over, Anne returns to London society where she accepts her life with her overbearing brothers and a very sweet (yet decidedly less swoon-worthy ) suitor. But Tristan refuses to let Anne forget the connection they formed on their journey.

My major issue with this story arose with Tristan. While Anne was very forthcoming with her need to marry, Tristan continued to attempt to seduce her away from society...which I was ok with (he'd certainly be able to protect her). But the whole time he sabotaged her place in society and her relationship with her suitor, he openly refused to consider marrying her himself. It was basically an "I don't want you, but I don't want anyone else to have you either" situation. Which is cruel. He kept claiming that his heart belonged to the sea, which was total BS and ranks as one of the worst reasons for not marrying I have ever read. Admittedly, it all worked out in the end, but I just could not get over how lame of an excuse this was for Tristan denying his own love for Anne, as well as Anne's place in society.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath

Demons by K.F. Breene (Darkness #4)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Oct 2014 22:42:00 +0000

Demons by K.F. Breene

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: The plot dragged out a bit too much with no real resolution. This was a tough one for me to get in to.

Darkness Series
1. Into the Darkness
2. Braving the Elements
3. On a Razor's Edge
4. Demons
5. The Council (Oct 30, 2014)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It’s been a long road, but Sasha has finally claimed her role as the least knowledge mage in history. She’s also acquired a new, incredibly grumpy bodyguard, and a spunky new BFF. With her team by her side, she learns the ropes of this new profession.

Her experience level is about to be fast-tracked, however.

On a routine trip to check out a perimeter breach, she encounters a hideous demon called by an experienced magic worker. It is this terrifying discovery that unlocks a deeper problem: Stefan’s troubled past and the reason he gravely mistrusts the Mata.

While Sasha struggles to fight the physical demons, Stefan struggles to fight the demons of his past. If he fails, his future in Sasha will be lost.

My Thoughts:

After being very pleasantly surprised by the first few books in this series, I was shocked how tough it was for me to get through this novella. I honestly don't know what happened, but I had to push myself to stay interested in this story. The plot begins with a demon summoned by some mysterious, powerful mage. The demon, conveniently, provides a mystery for Sasha to solve with her awesome black magic powers as well as a way for her to prove her abilities to lead her people. Additionally, this demon brings up Stefan's inner demons (ooo double meaning), and we get to see Sasha help our sensitive stud through some tough times. I know, I sound bitter. Honestly, I usually eat this kind of sensitive-tough-guy stuff up, but it was just too forced in this story. In my opinion, even the sex was forced...there was hardly even a purpose for it. And when I'm clamoring for a purpose for some naughty scenes in a romance, you know there's a problem.

Now I still enjoyed the magic aspects of this story, and the final battle was exciting enough, but the one thing that still eats at me is that there was no POINT to the demon. Even after we discover who summoned the demon (and believe me, it was no real shocker), it seemed like it was just summoned because the mage wanted to see if it could be done. Congrats! You can summon a demon. Story over.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | K.F. Breene

On a Razor's Edge by K.F. Breene (Darkness #3)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 19 Oct 2014 20:39:00 +0000

On a Razor's Edge by K.F. Breene

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: Quite an exciting story, but fairly reminiscent of the plot from the second book.

Darkness Series
1. Into the Darkness
2. Braving the Elements
3. On a Razor's Edge
4. Demons
5. The Council (Oct 30, 2014)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

If Sasha thought life would slow down after being captured, she was dead wrong.

Having an extremely high level of magic, but not knowing how to use it, has become more than a little problematic. Struggling to get her power under control has everyone on their toes, waiting for something to blow up. And then there is the issue of loving Stefan, but not being able to mate him because she hadn't a clue how to lead, which is necessary if she wants to rule by his side.

No, things have not gotten any easier.

With the incoming visit of the Regional and his white mage, the pressure turns way up for both Sasha and Stefan. So many issues are riding on the balance, and one word from the authoritative pair could have Sasha back in her old life, still in danger, and without the resources to carry on.

Sasha has to learn to battle while walking on a razor's edge.

My Thoughts:

This was an enjoyable addition to the Darkness Series. I think the plots are getting more developed as we get further into this series, and I enjoy how Breene is devoting less time to vampire orgies and more time to awesome magic powers. Weird, I know. As the Regional and his mage come to visit Stefan and check in on the oddity that is Sasha, the plot develops into a sort of magic training montage. And it was enjoyable. We get to see what Sasha is capable of, though half of the time she proves only that she has a ton of power and no clue how to use it. But hey, it was entertaining.

The relationship between Stefan and Sasha was put to the test a bit here, as Stefan is required to mate with someone who can stand by his side in a position of leadership. Their interactions were still very romantic, and pretty steamy, but I think the romance aspects of this book were secondary to the action.

While I did enjoy the third book in this series, I did find myself noting many similarities between this plot and that of the second book. It seemed to follow the same formula of Sasha struggling with magic lessons, Sasha getting into trouble, Sasha throwing herself into epic battles...Stefan being his sexy, overprotective self...it was all very familiar, but still quite exciting.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | K.F. Breene

Braving the Elements by K.F. Breene (Darkness #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 23:49:00 +0000

Braving the Elements by K.F. Breene

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: If the dirtiness of the first novella scared you off, consider giving this series a second chance. You really can't go wrong with a magical sword-wielding alpha male.

Darkness Series
1. Into the Darkness
2. Braving the Elements
3. On a Razor's Edge
4. Demons

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Sasha has always known she was different, but now she also knows that the shadow men she’s seen all her life, are real.
With a life goal of fitting in, Sasha hopes her strange abilities will finally make true friendship a possibility. Unfortunately, her magic doesn’t function like everyone else’s. What she thought would make her belong, sets her apart now more than ever.

Stefan, all but promised to a different woman, has tried to keep his mind on his duties instead of the irresistible and free-spirited human. But when she is threatened, he can’t keep his distance anymore. He realizes he’ll stop at nothing to keep her safe, and more importantly, make her his.

Just when one thing clicks into place, another spirals out of control. Stefan’s clan isn’t the only group that would benefit from an extremely rare type of magic. And their enemies will stop at nothing to get what they want.

My Thoughts:

This was a marvelous continuation of the Darkness Series. Sasha and a very unhappy Charles start attending classes to hone Sasha's magical skills. All the while, Sasha and Stefan struggle with the connection that is constantly pulling them together. Sasha has to deal with a bunch of super-humans who view her as nothing more than a pet with a few magical tricks. Stefan has to balance his attraction to Sasha with his duty to the clan, all while protecting his people from the imminent battles with the Eastern Territories.

If you read the first book and were bothered by the "distasteful sexual situations," the non-consensual sex is absent in this story. Now the crude language and sex warnings still stand, though it was toned down a bit. While mature subject matter is sprinkled throughout the book, I promise you the actual plot dominates...this story is not all sex.

Practically all of my issues with the first novella in this series were resolved in this story. I actually learned to like Sasha. I thought she was weak and purposefully played dumb in the first book, but after learning a bit more about her, I feel a little bad for my hasty judgement. I'll admit, she isn't the strongest heroine I've ever read, but it's not a crime for the heroine to get a little down when life gets rough. At least she has some badass skills she finally gets to show off in battle.

Stefan is definitely one of my favorite heroes. I mean he's just really perfect...can I have one please? Why don't I ever find hot men with magical swordsmanship skills and a killer protective instinct? I feel like that's not too much to ask... All right, so he's the typical alpha male tamed only by the heroine, but I still love it. Their attraction to each other was very steamy, and turns out Stefan is quite the romantic under all that muscle. I was happy that Charles ended up being the comic relief in this story instead of just a despicable sex-addict. My biggest disappointment is that these are so short!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | K.F. Breene

Into the Darkness by K.F. Breene (Darkness #1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 16:51:00 +0000

Into the Darkness by K.F. Breene

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: If you are up for A LOT of naughtiness and crude language, this story actually has a very interesting plot.

Darkness Series
1. Into the Darkness
2. Braving the Elements
3. On a Razor's Edge
4. Demons

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Sasha has grown up with one surety: she’s not normal.

She sees things in the darkness that no one else can see. Mysterious men cloaked in shadow, moving through the night. The problem is, pointing out invisible people is a fast track to a padded cell. Orphaned at age five, Sasha quickly learns an important survival tip: keep her mouth shut and stay out of the spotlight.

Until one night, everything changes. She and her boyfriend, Jared, find themselves stranded on the wrong side of town. Suddenly, the men she was convinced were hallucinations, are very real. And very dangerous.

As a new world opens up around her, she meets him. The Boss. An alpha leader who entrances her mind and tugs on her body. Primal and sexual, his people have a different set of rules. And they don’t always play nice.

As danger rises up around her, her differences may be the only thing that saves her life. She must embrace what she’s tried so hard to hide, while resisting the person her body craves most. Sasha has finally found her shadow men, and they will change her life forever.

My Thoughts:

There were a lot of warnings for this novella about the tastelessness of some of the sexual situations (i.e. non-consensual), but I'm going to be honest with you--I really didn't think it was that bad. I suppose from someone who reads paranormal romances, it's not that uncommon to see magical beings luring humans into sexual situations that they would not otherwise be ok with. Maybe my moral fiber is fraying...but I would say not to let that warning stop you from enjoying this book if you are ok with books pushing the boundaries a teensy bit. Now the "adult situations" warning you can heed. The language in this book is crude and the sex is abundant and a little graphic (ok, VERY graphic). So prepare yourself to either embrace the naughtiness or put up with it and just enjoy the plot.

That being said, I am glad I finally read this novella. It was free on Amazon (and still is I believe), so I just bought it and let it chill on my kindle for a few months. This story introduces Sasha, a seemingly normal human girl who has always had this odd feeling that something is a little different about her. After a run in with a group of not-quite-human men, Sasha and her boyfriend, Jason, are thrown into the world of the "shadow men."

I'll be honest. I'm not a huge fan of Sasha's. She is a little immature and she seems to revel in the fact that she isn't smart, which is a bit of a heroine pet-peeve of mine. But I am a huge fan of the power Sasha discovers she has. The "shadow men" are characterized as a sort of vampiric race, but I'm not convinced that I see them as vampires. I always thought vampires should be undead...I guess they enjoy the sharing of blood, lots of sex, and they're all ridiculously hot, so maybe that's close enough? But the important part is that they have some very neat skills, and they are currently dealing with a vampire turf war.

Overall, this novella was funny, raunchy, and had a surprisingly exciting plot. As I always do, I failed to notice that this was a series of novellas, so I was very disappointed when the story just stopped 200 pages in. So be prepared to pick up the next book in the series right away!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | K.F. Breene

Rogue with a Brogue by Suzanne Enoch (Scandalous Highlanders #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Sep 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Rogue with a Brogue by Suzanne Enoch

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A nice forbidden-love story, but the romance fell a little flat when the action picked up.

Scandalous Highlanders

0.5 One Hot Scot: A Holiday Story
1. The Devil Wears Kilts
2. Rogue with a Brogue
3. Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid (March 3, 2015)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

A Rogue For Every Lady

London, 1817: Stuck in a Mayfair ballroom, thanks to his lovestruck brother, Highlander Arran MacLawry wants nothing but a bit of distraction from an arranged betrothal—and a clever auburn-haired lass in a vixen's mask promises just that . . . until he discovers that she's the granddaughter of the Campbell, chief of clan MacLawry's longtime rival. Despite their families' grudging truce, falling for fiery Mary Campbell is a notion too outlandish even for this Highlander…

The Thrill Of The Forbidden

Raised on tales of savage MacLawrys, Mary is stunned to realize the impressively strapping man in the fox's mask is one of them. Surely the enemy shouldn't have such a broad chest, and such a seductive brogue? Not that her curiosity matters—any dalliance between them is strictly forbidden, and she's promised to another. But with the crackling spark between them ready to catch flame, love is worth every risk…

My Thoughts:

I've been on a bit of a Scottish kick lately, so I thought it was about time to continue on with Enoch's Scandalous Highlanders. I was worried that this story would be just like The Devil Wears Kilts, just with a different brother. Luckily, this story had a completely different premise. Instead of Arran falling for a proper English miss, he fell for the daughter of his clan's biggest rival...of course. There was a lot of action, and a well developed romance.

Arran started out a little obnoxious. After hearing Ranulf's story, it was kind of tough dealing with Arran constantly accusing Ran of being selfish, or trying to convince him to leave Charlotte. Of course, Arran just hadn't learned how important love was yet. My problem was that while I really enjoyed how Mary and Arran's relationship built up in the beginning of the novel, I thought it kind of plateaued. Even with all the wonderful action in the second half, their interactions got a little...stale. It seemed to just be them commenting on how strong the other one was. Over and over.

Everything was nicely resolved in the end, and I certainly look forward to Winnie's story (Lachlan better start wooing!), though I also hope we see a happy ending for Jane. I have a feeling that poor girl has experienced unrequited love a few too many times.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Suzanne Enoch

Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper (Jane Jameson #1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 19:39:00 +0000

Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: A very humorous novel about an average girl's introduction into her new life as a vampire.

Jane Jameson Series
1. Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs
2. Nice Girls Don't Date Dead Men
3. Nice Girls Don't Live Forever
3.5 Nice Girls Don't Sign a Lease Without a Wedding Ring
4. Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors
4.5 Special Valentine's Day Half-Moon Hollow Story

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Maybe it was the Shenanigans gift certificate that put her over the edge. When children's librarian and self-professed nice girl Jane Jameson is fired by her beastly boss and handed twenty-five dollars in potato skins instead of a severance check, she goes on a bender that's sure to become Half Moon Hollow legend. On her way home, she's mistaken for a deer, shot, and left for dead. And thanks to the mysterious stranger she met while chugging neon-colored cocktails, she wakes up with a decidedly unladylike thirst for blood.

Jane is now the latest recipient of a gift basket from the Newly Undead Welcoming Committee, and her life-after-lifestyle is taking some getting used to. Her recently deceased favorite aunt is now her ghostly roommate. She has to fake breathing and endure daytime hours to avoid coming out of the coffin to her family. She's forced to forgo her favorite down-home Southern cooking for bags of O negative. Her relationship with her sexy, mercurial vampire sire keeps running hot and cold. And if all that wasn't enough, it looks like someone in Half Moon Hollow is trying to frame her for a series of vampire murders. What's a nice undead girl to do?

My Thoughts:

I wouldn't categorize myself as a vampire novel fan; I've always thought that they all had very similar plots (perhaps I just haven't read enough of them...but hey, just an opinion). This book certainly didn't have the most original plot either, but damn was it funny. This was like a vampire comedy. Sure, there was murder and blood sucking and sexy vampire men, but I was laughing the entire time.

Jane is a book nerd turned vampire. Her family is obnoxious, her relationships are....less than inspiring, and she has a wicked sense of humor. I really connected with Jane; the inner dialogue and her sense of humor were right up my alley. This story is definitely written in a bit of a sarcastic, rambling style. She is not the shining southern belle her parents want, or the sexy and confident woman men like, but she is upbeat and fun and made this book so enjoyable.

Now, while I am content as long as a book is making me laugh, I will admit that this book's actual plot was a bit slow to develop. The majority of the story consisted of Jane learning how to be a vampire, and the action didn't pick up until the last few chapters. If you are an avid reader of vampire novels, you may find this one lacking in excitement.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Molly Harper

Once More, My Darling Rogue by Lorraine Heath (Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 18:16:00 +0000

Once More, My Darling Rogue by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: An exciting plot full of deception and sexual tension.

Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James
1. When the Duke Was Wicked
2. Once More, My Darling Rogue

Synopsis (Goodreads):

They are England’s most eligible bachelors, with the most scandalous reputations. But for the right woman, even an unrepentant rogue may mend his ways…

Born to the street but raised within the aristocracy, Drake Darling can’t escape his sordid beginnings. Not when Lady Ophelia Lyttleton snubs him at every turn, a constant reminder he’s not truly one of them. But after rescuing her from a mysterious drowning he realizes she doesn’t remember who she is. With plans to bring her to heel, he insists she’s his housekeeper—never expecting to fall for the charming beauty.

While Ophelia might not recall her life before Drake, she has little doubt she belongs with him. The desire she feels for her dark, brooding employer can’t be denied, regardless of consequences. So when her memory returns, she is devastated by the depth of his betrayal. Now Drake must risk everything to prove she can trust this rogue with her heart once more.

My Thoughts:

I have been waiting for this book since I finished When the Duke Was Wicked. I realize the summary makes it sound like the story would be an 1800's version of the movie Overboard...and honestly it was quite similar. But it was also very enjoyable. And had fewer mullets (thank goodness). Obviously, taking advantage of a lady's amnesia out of spite is a recipe for disaster...but something certainly needed to shake Ophelia out of her ways. Ophelia was an emotionally scarred lady who hid behind her haughtiness to keep everyone at a distance, especially the one man who she couldn't keep out of her head. Drake was a commoner adopted into an aristocratic family, though he never forgot his roots.

I like when authors shake it up and make either the hero or heroine completely unbearable at the start. In this book, it was definitely Ophelia. She was stuck up and rude, and oh-so obnoxious. I'd hate to wish a traumatic accident on anyone...but I won't say I was exactly upset when she wound up in the Thames. As such, I find myself unable to fully blame Drake for his deceit. Aside from being a little petty in his revenge, I really liked him as a hero. I thought he was honest (you know, aside from the major deception that made up the entire plot of this book) and a very sweet, romantic man.

This was definitely an emotional romance. Even when the romance between Drake and Ophelia was blooming, you always knew that his deception was hanging over their heads. And there was always the fear that she would revert to her old self if she remembered. There was a lot of tension and passion, and it was tied together in a beautifully written story.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath

Wonderful by Cheryl Holt (Reluctant Brides Trilogy #3)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 07 Sep 2014 18:08:00 +0000

Wonderful by Cheryl Holt

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: Too similar to the previous two novels for my liking. My hopes for a good hero were dashed once again.

Reluctant Brides Trilogy
1. Wicked
2. Wanton
3. Wonderful

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Evangeline Etherton loved her years as a teacher at Miss Peabody’s School for Girls. But with Miss Peabody’s passing, the school is shut down, and Evangeline is on her way to marry a fiancé she’s never met. She never imagined herself as a bride and is reluctant to abandon the independent life she enjoyed as an unwed female. When she meets her betrothed—a fussy, stern vicar—she’s certain she shouldn’t proceed. They have nothing in common and a match between them can only lead to disaster and misery. But as a spinster with no funds or family, she’s out of options.

Aaron Drake has always been perfect. As the eldest son and heir to an earl, he’s never engaged in mischief, taken an awkward step, or headed in the wrong direction. But with his marriage swiftly approaching—to a tedious, unpleasant snob—he’s suddenly desperate to do something reckless and wild before he’s shackled in what he’s sure will be an unappealing and dreary marriage. When he meets pretty, vivacious Evangeline, he can’t help but think she just might be the cure for what ails him.

Seduction seems the only path, but when romance blossoms and passions heat, can love be far behind?

RELUCTANT BRIDES… When love is the key and dowry the bait, who can predict what a woman might do?

My Thoughts:

I was clinging to the hope that this would be the redeeming book in the series, since Aaron seemed like a very good man in Wanton. Unfortunately, I just found more of the same. This plot is an echo of the previous two books, just with slightly less horrible characters and a different setup for the hero and heroine. While Aaron started out strong , I quickly learned to dislike him just as much as the other two heroes.

Evangeline was my favorite of the ladies in this trilogy, mainly because she had a bit of spunk (even though she was just as obnoxiously naive as Rose and Amelia). Aaron is suffering from an arranged marriage to a horrible girl and his need to do his duty when he meets Evangeline (cue sparks). Now, Aaron did a lot of things in this book that bothered me, but that I will admit were understandable for a man of his position (wanting a mistress, thinking with his...not his brain, wanting everyone to obey him). I will let these slide since they are products of his position as Viscount and future Earl. But the thing that really pissed me off was how deceptive he was to get what he wanted from Evangeline. While I think he did a slightly better job than Lucas at groveling to get his woman back, I still don't think he should have been forgiven so easily.

The plot of this book was slightly more bearable than the previous two, though at times it seemed like a repeat of the other novels. I would have rated it higher, but I felt especially let down by Aaron since I actually LIKED him at the start of the book. It seems like he was morphed from a good, moral person into a total jerk just to fit into the theme of the trilogy (which seems to be "your man sucks, but you might be pregnant so you better forgive him and get married...stat").

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Cheryl Holt

Talk Sweetly to Me by Courtney Milan (The Brothers Sinister #4.5)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 06 Sep 2014 15:25:00 +0000

Talk Sweetly to Me by Courtney Milan

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A cute novella with a unique heroine and a great balance of humor and emotion.

The Brothers Sinister Series
0.5 The Governess Affair
1. The Duchess War
1.5 A Kiss For Midwinter
2. The Heiress Effect
3. The Countess Conspiracy
4. The Suffragette Scandal
4.5 Talk Sweetly to Me

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Nobody knows who Miss Rose Sweetly is, and she prefers it that way. She's a shy, mathematically-minded shopkeeper's daughter who dreams of the stars. Women like her only ever come to attention through scandal. She'll take obscurity, thank you very much.

All of England knows who Stephen Shaughnessy is. He's an infamous advice columnist and a known rake. When he moves into the house next door to Rose, she discovers that he's also wickedly funny, devilishly flirtatious, and heart-stoppingly handsome. But when he takes an interest in her mathematical work, she realizes that Mr. Shaughnessy isn't just a scandal waiting to happen. He's waiting to happen to her...and if she's not careful, she'll give in to certain ruination.

My Thoughts:

As in all of Milan's books in this series, Talk Sweetly to Me has a very unique heroine for the historical romance genre. Rose Sweetly is both a very, very intelligent woman and a black woman. I believe this is the first 1800's romance I have read featuring a black woman, and I certainly enjoyed the twist. We met Stephen in The Sufragette Scandal as Free Marshall's witty male columnist. I was very excited to see how his story played out.

The romance was very sweet; there were a few emotional parts, but overall I would say this was a light romance. Part of me felt like maybe it was TOO light. I find it hard to believe that Stephen and Rose's interest in each other developed beyond lust after a few conversations in the street and three math lessons (as arousing as math can be). However, I am generally inclined to give a bit of leeway to love at first sight in novellas. I was also not convinced that Stephen truly could be serious enough to help Rose through 1800's society. Overall, I enjoyed seeing the sweet side of Stephen, and I like to believe that their love will be enough to overcome the hardships they would no doubt face.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Courtney Milan

The Viper by Monica McCarty (Highland Guard #4)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 04 Sep 2014 15:44:00 +0000

The Viper by Monica McCarty

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: I found the heroine to be a bit vexing at times, but this was another wonderfully sensual and action-packed story.

Highland Guard

1. The Chief
2. The Hawk
3. The Ranger
4. The Viper
5. The Saint
6. The Recruit
7. The Hunter
7.5 The Knight
8. The Raider
9. The Arrow

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The war for Scotland’s sovereignty rages on as Robert the Bruce is crowned king and the Highland Guard, his elite fighting force of legendary warriors, battle for land . . . and love.

Prized for his snakelike stealth and deadly strikes, Lachlan “Viper” MacRuairi is a warrior to enlist but not to trust. His only loyalty is to his purse, his indifference sealed by bitter betrayal. All that changes when Lachlan is tasked to protect and deliver Bella MacDuff to the king’s coronation and the proud, lushly sensual countess unwittingly challenges him to his greatest battle yet: to love again.

Passionate and devoted, Bella has defied Britain’s king and her own husband to place the crown on Bruce’s head, and for this she pays a terrible price: Losing her daughter and her freedom to her husband’s vengeance. Imprisoned with barbaric cruelty, she vows to reclaim her child, even if it means selling her soul and her body to a dark, lethal warrior whose eyes glint like steel, but who makes her skin tingle and her breath race. Together they embark on a rogue mission with sinister twists and turns that threatens not only Bella’s gamble to save her daughter but also her heart.

My Thoughts:

This novel had a nice twist: the most hated of the highlander guard we've met so far turns out to be a misunderstood sweetheart. We met Lachlan in the previous novels and he always seemed very surly and uncaring towards anyone but himself...but we also got a sense that he was very torn up over Bella's capture. In this book, we finally learn a bit more about him.

Lachlan's good name was ruined when he was younger, and since he blames himself for the incident, he sees no value in correcting anyone's negative opinions of him. Thus, he is known as a heartless mercenary and is not trusted by many. When he is commanded to keep Bella MacDuff's safe, he finds himself wanting her to trust him--something he hasn't expected from anyone since his former wife's betrayal.

I enjoyed the chemistry between Lachlan and Bella. At the start, Bella knows only of his bad reputation and refuses to trust him at all. She has also learned to be wary of any male attention due to her husband's jealous nature and the reactions that her beauty generally garners from men. When there is a spark of attraction between Bella and Lachlan, they both try hard to fight it.While I was easily drawn in by both the plot and the delicious sexual tension between the hero and heroine, I was a little annoyed by how selfish Bella could be. Between her strong will and Lachlan's need to see her happy, she constantly sent him on missions that put him into danger, then generally rewarded him with a guilt trip for being attracted to her...I guess it was a nice change to be pissed off at the heroine instead of our highlanders.

This series continues to impress me. I can't wait to continue on and see what else McCarty has in store for our highland guard.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Monica McCarty

Wanton by Cheryl Holt (Reluctant Brides Trilogy #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 17:48:00 +0000

Wanton by Cheryl Holt

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A small improvement from the first book in the series, but still a fairly unconvincing romance

Reluctant Brides Trilogy
1. Wicked
2. Wanton
3. Wonderful

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Amelia Hubbard has always lived at Miss Peabody’s School for Girls, first as a student, then as a teacher. She enjoyed her position and the independence it brought. But Miss Peabody has died, the school is closing, and Amelia has no money and nowhere to go. When Fate intervenes and hands her a dowry and a handsome husband already purchased with the money, Amelia is nervous but resigned. She reluctantly agrees to wed a man she’s never met.

Lucas Drake has never been anything but a wastrel and scapegrace. As the second son of an earl, and with an older brother who’s perfect in every way, stellar behavior seems impossible. He’s always been happy to live down to his stern father’s low expectations. But when Amelia arrives and Lucas discovers that his father has engaged him to her, his bachelor tendencies surge to the fore. He’s vehemently certain that no wedding will ever occur.

When Amelia agreed to the match, she never imagined that Lucas might not want to get married. Her prior situation has ended, and without marriage, the future is bleak. What’s a spinster to do?

Wanton seduction seems the only path, but first, she’ll need a few lessons in how to use her feminine wiles. Once she figures out what Lucas really needs, the poor man doesn't stand a chance.

RELUCTANT BRIDES… When love is the key and dowry the bait, who can predict what a woman might do?

My Thoughts:

This book was a small step up from Wicked. I was worried about Lucas' story since he was so lazy and rude in the first book, and I'd say my concerns were well founded. In this novel, Lucas' father has arranged for Amelia to marry Lucas, but Lucas refuses to acknowledge her. I've seen this theme in a couple books, and usually the driving force behind the son's refusal to marry is well founded. With Lucas I got the feeling that one of the main reasons he didn't want to marry was because he didn't want to be tied down to one woman. Even when they are supposedly in love, Lucas thinks of marriage as an ending to his freedom.

I was not a huge fan of Amelia either. I just couldn't imagine a girl becoming quite so...wanton while moving about in polite 1800's society. There was just never any real connection between Lucas and Amelia aside from lust, and this lust was only aided by Amelia pretending to be a different kind of person. The only redeeming part of this book was that the secondary characters weren't too awful. Aaron seems like one of the only decent people in this trilogy, so maybe (just maybe), the third book will be better.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Cheryl Holt

Wicked by Cheryl Holt (Reluctant Brides Trilogy #1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 21:01:00 +0000

Wicked by Cheryl Holt

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: I struggled to get past the fact that there was not a single character in this story that I liked.

Reluctant Brides Trilogy
1. Wicked
2. Wanton
3. Wonderful

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Rose Ralston has spent her life at Miss Peabody’s School for Girls—first as a student, then as a teacher. But with Miss Peabody’s passing, the school has been closed, the students sent away, and Rose is facing an uncertain future. As Miss Peabody’s will is read, Rose had been told to expect a small bequest, but she’s stunned to discover that her inheritance is a dowry that’s already been paid to an elderly widower. The man is in quick need of an heir, and Rose can agree to wed or she’ll get nothing and will have no money and nowhere to go. She’s never lived on her own, and without family or friends to assist her, she’s out of options. Reluctantly, she agrees to the marriage and heads off to the man’s Summerfield estate.

James Talbot grew up at Summerfield. But as an orphan, his position was never exactly clear. The owner, Stanley Oswald, constantly tormented James with the secrets of his parentage. Rumors abound that he’s Stanley’s natural-born son, but the truth has been impossible to unravel. Needing to escape Stanley’s manipulations, James has spent the past decade in the army. But Stanley has lured him home, and when James learns of Stanley’s pending marriage, he can’t help but be intrigued. He’s eager to engage in a little mischief, and nothing would give him greater pleasure than to ruin the match before it begins.

Rose is fascinated by handsome, virile James, but bound to wed elderly, decrepit Stanley. As Stanley woos her and James interferes, any wild ending seems possible. For Rose—who only ever wanted a home of her own—she just might end up with more than she ever dreamed.

RELUCTANT BRIDES… When love is the key and dowry the bait, who can predict what a woman might do?

My Thoughts:

I am still struggling to determine if this was actually a romance novel, or an exercise in writing horrid characters. There was not a single character in this book that did not piss me off. The premise of the story was good; penniless Rose is practically sold to an old, wealthy man who needs an heir before he dies, but the handsome, young James catches her eye instead. Who can blame her when her future husband is almost 50 years her senior? Unfortunately, Rose's fiance has further plans for her that depend on her getting to know James more intimately.

I was not able to get attached to any of the characters in this book. Rose's naivete was actually ridiculous. It's sometimes enjoyable to read about the innocent virgin, but Rose took this too a new level. The dialogue between her and James made me cringe. James, for his part, was manipulative and selfish until the very end, and I never found the relationship between him and Rose believable in the least. I could rant about Stanley Oswald's perversions and Veronica's neurotic obsession with finding a husband, but I'll just say that the secondary characters did nothing to redeem the book and leave it at that. Aside from the characters, I found the cliche dialogue a little obnoxious and out of place in a historical novel. I was also disappointed that we never learned any further reasoning behind Miss Peabody setting Rose up with Mr. Oswald. I was hoping Miss Peabody would end up being a wise and creative matchmaker, but it seems that she really just sucked at judging people.

I am actually considering giving Holt's second novel in this trilogy a shot. I can't imagine there could be any worse characters, so I am anxious to see if Wanton will redeem this series. I feel like the premise of a few penniless orphans being shipped off to their awaiting husbands has a lot of potential, so hopefully Lucas and Amelia's story will be a bit more bearable.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Cheryl Holt

Untouched by Anna Campbell

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 02:24:00 +0000

Untouched by Anna Campbell

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A romance with a bit of a gothic feel to it. A good storyline, but the relationship between the hero and heroine seemed to rely too much on sexual attraction.

Synopsis (Goodreads):

"I am many things," Lord Sheene said. "Kind is not one of them."

Beautiful Grace Paget has no reason not to believe these words. After all, she was kidnapped, spirited away to a remote country manor, and told she is to grant this man his every desire . . . or lose her life. But Grace is no common trollop. So she risks everything to save her virtue by planning a daring escape, even though she finds herself tempted by this handsome man. There is something in his eyes that makes her wonder if he is as dangerous as he would have her believe.

Sheene knew nothing of the plan to bring him this woman. Locked up as a prisoner, called "mad" by all of the world, he will do anything to reclaim his life, and Grace's sensuous beauty has distracted him from his goals. And although he finds her irresistible, he is horrified to hold her against her will. Now, together, they must both revolt against the strange set of circumstances that have forced them together—for only then will Grace truly surrender to him . . . forever.

My Thoughts:

This book put me in an odd position when I was trying to figure out how I felt about it. I think if this had been one of the first historical romances I had read, I would have really liked it. However, after reading a lot of similar novels, the plot fell a little flat for me. Campbell certainly has a way of creating very dark, cruel antagonists. Sheene's uncle, Lord John, and his servants are truly evil in this story. Lord John has locked Sheene up for the majority of his life. When Grace is imprisoned with Sheene, they find they are connected by a need to be free of Lord John's threatening presence.

This is a very dark romance with plenty of death threats and nasty, violent thugs. The romance that blooms between Grace and Sheene is the only light part of the story. While the passion between them was quite enjoyable to read, I felt like their attraction was shown almost entirely through sex. When they weren't having sex, they were thinking about having sex. Honestly, I realize there's not much to do when you're imprisoned on an estate together, but the middle third of the story was basically exploring their physical attraction to each other. I did enjoy the overall plot, as dark and fanciful as it was, and it was a nice, quick read. However, I would have enjoyed if there was a bit more substance to Grace and Sheene's relationship.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Anna Campbell

A Love by Any Measure by Killian McRae

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 24 Aug 2014 20:33:00 +0000

A Love by Any Measure by Killian McRae

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A historical romance that sticks to the social realities of the time period. This story had a lot of heartbreak and a lot of twists and turns.

Synopsis (Goodreads):

An Irish lass. An English lord.
A love that overcomes all boundaries, but at what cost?

Lord August Grayson, English landlord, has secretly, and much to the dismay of his father, held in reverence the object of his first fancy: poor Irish tenant Maeve O'Connor. Returning to the Ireland for the first time since his youth, August discovers that Maeve has grown into a woman of beauty and tenacity. August understands, however, that he could offer Maeve nothing but shame if her pursued her. But when circumstances allow him an opportunity to indulge his fancy, even if only in a limited scope, August finds himself unable to resist the temptation.

Maeve,for her part, knows the danger falling for August holds, but finds her heart and her good senses becoming confused the longer she spends in his company. As two hearts become hopelessly entangled, both Maeve and August are forced to question the costs of their love. As consequences of their romance manifest, both struggle with the pain and difficulties their love causes, both for them and for their loved ones.

Killian McRae's delve into historical romance will challenge reader's presumptions of the genre. A title garnering controversy due to McRae's preference towards historical truth versus genre-standard "love despite the realities of the day" perspectives, it asks at what cost winning love is justified. "A Love by Any Measure" is an exploration of a romance that strives to overcome divisions of cultural, socio-economic, and religious differences in an era where options for lovers in such situations were limited.

My Thoughts:

After reading an romance after romance, this novel was...an icy cold blast of reality. This was in no way a light-hearted romance. The plot was deep and convoluted and kind of made me hate life for a bit. After reading the synopsis, I expected a story of a man who loved a woman below his station but decided to seduce her anyways after which they realize love can conquer all and they get married and live happily ever after...hooray! Sadly (or happily, if you're in the mood for some severe emotional turmoil), McRae sticks to the reality of the times in that a Lord just cannot decide to marry an Irish commoner.

This story was an emotional rollercoaster. Every time August did something sweet and life started to look a little better for Maeve, there would be some wrench in the plan. My relationship with these characters was generally pity for Maeve, and a slight disdain for August and the way he treated Maeve. However, I admit that their relationship was believable considering the time period and that August was Maeve's Lord, and she his tenant. I accept it now, but I certainly spent a lot of my time being pissed off while I was actually reading the book.

Overall, this book WAS romantic. But I had to get through a lot of heartbreak first, so the happy ending was a little bittersweet. This book used a lot of flashbacks and flashforwards. A bit too much for my liking. I found myself incredibly confused at times, and some of the twists seemed a little unnecessary. They certainly made me wonder how in the world the story could have possibly taken such an odd turn, thus forcing me to continue reading...so perhaps the flashbacks/forwards did do their job! This plot was serious and took a lot of unexpected turns. I would love to claim that the realistic heartbreak of this story was a breath of fresh air after so many historical romances, but hey, I'm a romantic. I like my light-hearted, happily-ever-after stories.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Killian McRae

Magic Breaks by Ilona Andrews (Kate Daniels #7)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 17:12:00 +0000

Magic Breaks by Ilona Andrews

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Bottom Line: A lot of important issues were finally tied up in this story. This novel seemed like more of a way to bring all these situations we've been waiting for into the series instead of having its own separate plot.

Kate Daniels Series
0.5 Questionable Client
1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
3.5 Magic Mourns
4. Magic Bleeds
4.5 Magic Dreams
5. Magic Slays
5.5 Gunmetal Magic
6. Magic Rises
7. Magic Breaks
7.5 Magic Steals (November 25, 2014)
8. Magic Shifts (2015)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

No matter how much the paranormal politics of Atlanta change, one thing always remains the same: if there’s trouble, Kate Daniels will be in the middle of it…

As the mate of the Beast Lord, Curran, former mercenary Kate Daniels has more responsibilities than it seems possible to juggle. Not only is she still struggling to keep her investigative business afloat, she must now deal with the affairs of the pack, including preparing her people for attack from Roland, a cruel ancient being with god-like powers. Since Kate’s connection to Roland has come out into the open, no one is safe—especially those closest to Kate.

As Roland’s long shadow looms ever nearer, Kate is called to attend the Conclave, a gathering of the leaders from the various supernatural factions in Atlanta. When one of the Masters of the Dead is found murdered there, apparently at the hands of a shapeshifter, Kate is given only twenty-four hours to hunt down the killer. And this time, if she fails, she’ll find herself embroiled in a war which could destroy everything she holds dear…

My Thoughts:

The Kate Daniels series is my absolute favorite series...of all time. I have read the entire series at least three times this year, thus my enjoyment of this book may be a little biased. That being said, this was NOT my favorite of Andrew's novels. In fact, I think it may be my least favorite of the series--hey, some book had to be my least favorite. Before I start out, I fully recommend reading at least the main novels in this series (I haven't read the short stories yet) before picking up this one or I imagine you'll find yourself quite confused. I would describe this plot as "important"; it included all the necessary components to continuing Kate's story, but it was not the most exciting story on its own. The first half of this book was a little slow for me, as we set up the interactions between the pack and the People, but it certainly picked up towards the end. Without giving away any of the plot, I can say that we finally learn a bit more about Roland and how Kate and Curran will be involved with his plans.

I feel like Kate didn't really do anything super reckless and stupid to save the world in this story, which is always my favorite part of these books! Hopefully she's not becoming *gasp* responsible. In all seriousness, there was something different about Kate in this story that I can't put my finger on. I think perhaps her actions became too businesslike to fit with my view of her. Even her interactions with Curran were a little too stiff, and I certainly did not get enough Curran in this book (a selfish complaint, I know). I still enjoyed the humor and excitement in this story, and I am thrilled to see how Kate's story is finally unfurling. I would say, overall, that this novel did more to get me pumped up for the remaining books in the series than actually pulling me into its own plot.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Ilona Andrews

The Ranger by Monica McCarty (Highland Guard #3)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 16:11:00 +0000

The Ranger by Monica McCarty

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: Just as action packed as McCarty's previous novels, but with a more lovable hero.

Highland Guard

1. The Chief
2. The Hawk
3. The Ranger
4. The Viper
5. The Saint
6. The Recruit
7. The Hunter
7.5 The Knight
8. The Raider
9. The Arrow (August 26, 2014)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Chosen to help Robert the Bruce in his quest to free Scotland from English rule and claim his crown, the legendary team of warriors known as the Highland Guard battles on.

Embedded deep behind enemy lines, Arthur “Ranger” Campbell is prized for his razor-sharp senses and his ability to blend into the shadows. But when Arthur infiltrates the clan of the chieftain who murdered his father, his heart is locked on revenge. Inside he faces unexpected resistance from the sweetest of obstacles—a honey-haired siren who is his enemy’s daughter.

Intrigued by this ruggedly handsome newcomer to her father’s forces, the vivacious, enchanting Anna MacDougall is a woman whose skill at uncovering deception rivals Arthur’s own. Though yearning for a quiet life with a good man to love, Anna is drawn to this mysterious knight whose eyes devour her but whose words push her away. As danger, treachery, and the threat of looming war draw them closer into each other’s arms, a warrior made of steel must make a choice from the heart: love or revenge.

My Thoughts:

Arthur was my favorite of McCarty's highlanders so far. This story kept the emotional turmoil of the previous stories, but without the cockiness we got from Tor and Erik. Anna is a loyal and strong woman, and is immediately drawn to our sexy super-secret spy. Sadly, their relationship is pretty much doomed from the start, since Arthur's ultimate goal is to destroy her family. All the more fun for us!

I loved the characters in this book. Anna seemed pretty desperate for Arthur's attention through this book, which would normally have made me hate her, but somehow McCarty made it slightly endearing. It was amusing to have Anna constantly bugging Arthur while he tried desperately not to like her. The romance was hot (as always), but I especially enjoyed the action in this story. Arthur's "special skills" made the plot exciting, and added some depth to the relationship between him and Anna. I can think of only a few ways a doomed love between a spy and the daughter of his mortal enemy can end, but McCarty still managed to keep me on my toes.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Monica McCarty

The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan (The Brothers Sinister #4)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 17:48:00 +0000

The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: This story had a bit too much politics for my tastes and not enough romantic development.

The Brothers Sinister Series
0.5 The Governess Affair
1. The Duchess War
1.5 A Kiss For Midwinter
2. The Heiress Effect
3. The Countess Conspiracy
4. The Suffragette Scandal
4.5 Talk Sweetly to Me

Synopsis (Goodreads):

An idealistic suffragette...

Miss Frederica "Free" Marshall has put her heart and soul into her newspaper, known for its outspoken support of women's rights. Naturally, her enemies are intent on destroying her business and silencing her for good. Free refuses to be at the end of her rope...but she needs more rope, and she needs it now.

...a jaded scoundrel...

Edward Clark's aristocratic family abandoned him to die in a war-torn land, so he survived the only way he could: by becoming a rogue and a first-class forger. When the same family that left him for dead vows to ruin Miss Marshall, he offers his help. So what if he has to lie to her? She's only a pawn to use in his revenge.

...and a scandal seven years in the making.

But the irrepressible Miss Marshall soon enchants Edward. By the time he realizes that his cynical heart is hers, it's too late. The only way to thwart her enemies is to reveal his scandalous past...and once the woman he loves realizes how much he's lied to her, he'll lose her forever.

My Thoughts:

I absolutely love Courtney Milan's books, so I was a little surprised when I couldn't really get in to this story. This story followed the story of Frederica Marshall, Oliver's younger sister from The Heiress Effect. Free was another one of Milan's strong, opinionated heroines, which is always enjoyable. However, I just couldn't get in to the relationship between Free and Edward. I think the characters leaned away from the humor that I enjoyed in the rest of the series and more towards the serious issues of the late 1800s. I'll admit, I like to stay as far away from politics as possible, even in my reading. I just couldn't get into all the activism in this story.

The romance was enjoyable in this novel; Edward was very good at saying very very sweet things to Free. However, the attraction between them seemed to be purely based on the fact that they both liked to stir things up in society. I didn't feel that it developed too much beyond that. It was basically, "hey, she's a little crazy. I think I love her." I have always been a fan of Milan's writing style, strong female leads, and sweet heroes. I think the reason this book didn't captivate me as much as her other's had is because her story is beginning to venture into a historical era that I do not enjoy as much as regency and medieval historical romances. That being said, if you are a fan of adding actual history (*gasp*) to your historical romance, this may be a great book for you!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Courtney Milan

The Hawk by Monica McCarty (Highland Guard #2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 22:30:00 +0000

The Hawk by Monica McCarty

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: If you like seeing a cocky playboy finally brought to his knees, you'll enjoy this book. Oh, and the actual plot was good too.

Highland Guard

1. The Chief
2. The Hawk
3. The Ranger
4. The Viper
5. The Saint
6. The Recruit
7. The Hunter
7.5 The Knight
8. The Raider
9. The Arrow (August 26, 2014)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Handpicked by Robert the Bruce to help him in his quest to free Scotland from English rule, the elite warriors of the Highland Guard face their darkest days. When Bruce is forced to flee, his bid for freedom rests on the shoulders of one extraordinary warrior.

Erik MacSorley is a brilliant seafarer who has never encountered a wind he could not harness or a woman he could not win—until he drags a wet, half-naked “nursemaid” out of the waters off the Irish coast. Ellie’s ordinary appearance belies the truth: She is in fact Lady Elyne de Burgh, the spirited daughter of the most powerful noble in Ireland. Worse, this irresistible woman is determined to prove herself immune to Erik’s charms—a challenge he cannot resist.

Her captor may look every inch a rugged warrior, but Ellie vows that it will take more than a wickedly suggestive caress to impress her. Yet Erik will sweep away Ellie’s resistance with a desire that resonates deep within her heart. Still, he is a man driven by loyalty, and she is a woman with secrets that could jeopardize Bruce’s chance to reclaim his throne. As the battle for king and country sounds across the shores, will Ellie’s love be enough to finally tame the legend known as the Hawk?

My Thoughts:

Alright, I'm officially a fan of this series. It was a rough start with Tor "The Jerk" MacLeod in the first book, but I definitely enjoyed our second hero. McCarty has a way of taking obnoxious men and making me love them anyways. Erik "Hawk" MacSorley was chosen for Robert the Bruce's elite guard for his excellent seamanship. He's slightly crazy, way too cocky, and has never had to work for the attention of a woman in his life. Which is why I was oh so happy when he finally met his match in Ellie. Ellie is a nobleman's daughter, but decides to hide her identity from Hawk (who she believes to be a rugged pirate.) Ah, deception. Always makes for a great story.

Hawk was a major playboy. And while Ellie did her best to ignore his irresistible charms, she wasn't completely immune. Even after he realized that he felt differently about Ellie than the countless other women he had slept with, he was still way too cocky. And he kept mentioning how plain she was, and how grateful she would be for his attention! I would kick him in the face if I could. Maybe mess up his perfect bone structure a little bit. Really, some of these highlander hunks need to be brought down a few pegs. I certainly wouldn't characterize Hawk as "romantic" through the majority of the book, but my enjoyment in Hawk and Ellie's relationship came from seeing a man who had used his charm to get everything he wanted finally have to work to keep something he cared about.

I really like McCarty's writing. I think her stories really manage to pick at my emotions, and she's not afraid to stray from romantic heroes and give them a couple major character flaws. The heroes make me angry, but they also keep my face glued to the story. Nothing was half-assed in this story. The action was exciting and actually kept me interested in the politics behind the plot, which almost never happens. The tension between the characters was great and the sex was nice and detailed, if a little over the top at times (I'm looking at you boat-in-the-middle-of-a-storm scene...) I can't wait to continue on in this series and see what our next super secret highlander spy has in store!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Monica McCarty

Three Nights with a Scoundrel by Tessa Dare (Stud Club #3)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 21:35:00 +0000

Three Nights with a Scoundrel by Tessa Dare

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A great ending to the series! The romance was great, but the mystery was what really held my attention.

Stud Club Trilogy
1. One Dance with a Duke
2. Twice Tempted by a Rogue
3. Three Nights with a Scoundrel

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The bastard son of a nobleman, Julian Bellamy is now polished to perfection, enthralling the ton with wit and charm while clandestinely plotting to ruin the lords, ravish the ladies, and have the last laugh on a society that once spurned him. But after meeting Leo Chatwick, a decent man and founder of an elite gentlemen’s club, and Lily, Leo’s enchanting sister, Julian reconsiders his wild ways. And when Leo’s tragic murder demands that Julian hunt for justice, he vows to see the woman he secretly loves married to a man of her own class.

Lily, however, has a very different husband in mind. She’s loved Julian forever, adores the man beneath the rakish façade, and wants to savor the delicious attraction they share—as his wife. His insistence on marrying her off only reinforces her intent to prove that he is the only man for her. Obsessed with catching a killer, Julian sinks back to the gutters of his youth, forcing Lily to reach out with a sweet, reckless passion Julian can’t resist. Can her desire for a scoundrel save them both—or will dangerous secrets threaten more than their tender love?

My Thoughts:

I loved this ending to the series. I'll admit, I found Julian obnoxious in the previous two books, but that just made it even more exciting to see that there was more to him. This was a wonderful story of a strong friendship that transformed into something more. Lily was a great character; she was sweet and could hold her own against Julian's stubbornness. Julian still wasn't my favorite hero (honestly, did he NEED to sleep with every married lady in London), but he was way more interesting than I gave him credit for. He was certainly romantic, and the things he said to Lily when she couldn't read his lips...ah! So adorable. This was a kind of "all-consuming love" story, so you'll like it if you're in the mood for a gushy, incredibly passionate romance.

There were some sexy scenes in this book, but honestly, none of them really stuck with me. Don't get me wrong, they were good, but I was much more interested in the actual mystery and the development of Julian and Lily's relationship outside the bedroom. While the other stories only briefly explored the mystery of Leo's death, we finally get to the bottom of it in this book. I'll admit I was surprised about multiple aspects of Leo's life and death. I like being surprised so well done Tessa Dare!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Tessa Dare