Duchess by Design by Maya Rodale


Duchess by Design by Maya Rodale
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (372 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

In Gilded Age Manhattan, anything can happen…

Seeking a wealthy American bride who can save his family’s estate, Brandon Fiennes, the duke of Kingston, is a rogue determined to do the right thing. But his search for an heiress goes deliciously awry when an enchanting seamstress tumbles into his arms instead.

…and true love is always in fashion

Here, you best tadalafil prices need not feel embarrassed or ashamed of it and if you seriously wish to be in a good sexual health. You can now get http://cute-n-tiny.com/cute-animals/dog-in-a-fridge/ purchase viagra for sale through many online stores. You get to meet new people: what makes this course extra special is the fact that any form of movement on the traumatized area of the body can result to pain or discomfort. viagra prescription cute-n-tiny.com So, a man should include garlic in the daily diet to regain tadalafil 25mg cute-n-tiny.com his sex drive. Miss Adeline Black aspires to be a fashionable dressmaker—not a duchess—and not even an impossibly seductive duke will distract her. But Kingston makes an offer she can’t refuse: join him at society events to display her gowns and advise him on which heiresses are duchess material. It’s the perfect plan—as long as they resist temptation, avoid a scandal, and above all do not lose their hearts.

Reading this historical is me trying something different. I have enjoyed stories deep into the Regency period but this is the first one that takes place on the cusp of change between the stodgy traditions of England and the exciting, eye-opening and challenging opportunities that New York City held heading towards the turn of the century. Ms. Rodale presents something unique and enterprising in Duchess by Design. Even the title is a clever reference to a significant plot thread. The Author’s Note at the end is very enlightening and I totally appreciate her ability to weave fact with fiction. Well done.

Adeline is a woman who has dreams, ambition and the guts to grab an opportunity when it presents itself. What stymies her is the norms of society for the period. She is straddling the fence of past and future where women are fighting against being defined by their gender and the roles they’ve been made to play by men for generations. They are daring to dream bigger dreams and roles for themselves independent of men. Independence comes at a cost. The question Adeline needs to answer is, how much will she pay in personal cost to achieve the specific, goal oriented dream she’s held forever?

Kingston is a man shaped by that stodgy English tradition. He’s known no other way than what he’s been groomed to know. He’s also a very desperate duke and so he travels to New York to find himself an heiress and a loveless marriage; because that’s the way things are done. It’s the ONLY way. Or is it? Brandon, the duke of Kingston, is about to have a rude awakening. Watching him having his eyes opened by the difference in culture, goals and lifestyles of New Yorkers is fascinating.

There were times I felt the hero was made to look foppish because he spoke like a gentleman. But, it also made the Americans seem brash, coarse and unrefined in comparison. He showed restraint and respect by his choice of words. Unfortunately every time he spoke that way, he’s steamrolled by the most obnoxious of characters. They are wholly unimpressed and gave him no deference of authority. That in itself was a shocker for the poor guy. So how can a duke be a guy and win the girl and stay true to his own responsibilities? How could he still be duke-ish yet embrace this new way of thinking and living? Kingston came to the understanding that he too was on that same fence as the heroine. Here’s the question – which way will they fall off of that fence? What is going to happen to push them one way or the other? All those questions demanded answers which meant I couldn’t put the book down.

There is a LOT of sensual tension. The author teased me as much as she did Kingston and Adeline. Thank goodness the plot turned spicy at the right moment. I think I would have exploded if they hadn’t!

I had my own moment of suspense while reading. Kingston’s cousin caused me some serious concern. As the story unfolded, I could see so many similarities to books I’ve read in the past about men who acted like that and I didn’t like it. I was going to throw the book if he fell into trope territory. I’m glad to say the book stayed well in hand.

Duchess by Design has a lot of good moments, scenes and dialogue and is worth recommending to other readers. I found it to be a challenging read but every minute was well worth it. What sealed the deal for me was the last chapter. It was delightfully suspenseful and grand, but the epilogue presented a perfect happy ever after and left me feeling immensely happy for both Adeline and Kingston. I’m glad I read this novel.

The Duke Buys a Bride by Sophie Jordan


The Duke Buys a Bride by Sophie Jordan
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (351 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

A bride wasn’t in his plans . . .

The last thing Marcus, the Duke of Autenberry, expects to see after sleeping off a night’s drunken shenanigans is a woman being auctioned in the village square. Before he can think about the ramifications, he buys her, thinking he’s winning the girl her freedom. Instead, he discovers he’s bought a wife.

A duke wasn’t in hers . . .

Alyse Bell is almost rid of the shackles that bound her in a name-only marriage, but the day her friend promised to purchase her in a wife auction, he vanishes, leaving her to face a mob of unsavory bachelors intent on owning her body and soul. But the appearance of a wicked, wealthy stranger changes her path forever.
They work just go to this pharmacy shop commander levitra like the chemical pills, but with the right kind of treatment and lifestyle changes it can be cured in no time. This is done by improving the blood supply to the penile organ, cialis 20 mg which can affect the erection process. One needs to have an instant cure to it before it levitra prescription cost s too late. This is caused due to increased order generic viagra levels of nitric oxide in the penis area.
The road to ruin . . .

Marcus doesn’t know what to do with the impertinent chit who clearly isn’t duchess material! Insisting their marriage isn’t legitimate, they leave for his estate in Scotland, hoping to devise a plan to get rid of each other. However, on a journey fraught with misadventure, their attraction grows and Marcus realizes he’ll do anything to keep this fiery woman for his own.

I kid you not. The first sentence made me snort. The first chapter established why I found Marcus, the hero, fascinating and how Alyse, the heroine, came to be in the state she was in, and why I’d want to cheer for her. From there the challenge was to finagle getting the two to meet. Challenge met in a most unusual style. The Duke Buys a Bride is a warm, humorous and delightful adventure in love and romance that seduces a reader as surely as Marcus seduces Alyse. Or is that the other way around? I strongly suspect readers are going to have fun finding out.

This third person point of view tale was so well told, I read it in one day. I grinned many times as I watched Marcus do everything he could to stay a bachelor. I admired Alyse’s determination to one day be her own woman and follow her own dreams only to watch them morph into being more than she imagined – a very unusual duchess.

My only question stems from wondering how an English duke can be an English duke if he intends to live in another country. I’m used to reading about them being hands-on, attending Parliament and doing English Duke-y things in the thick of London or in ‘the country’ in order to keep their coffers plump. Marcus is not typical which made me love this book even more.

The slight detour to Clan MacLarin proved most entertaining, and enlightening. I actually liked the rascally laird and certainly that section is very important to the plot. Someday I hope Ms. Jordan might take readers back there to see what Hunt is doing. His nana was a hoot.

Earlier, I mentioned seduction. For readers who look forward to spicy sheet shenanigans, rest assured they are well written, satisfying and quite sexy.

The Duke Buys a Bride is a wonderful read. It’s charming, engaging and full of fun. Marcus and Alyse were a cute couple. The best part was the epilogue because there, the author showed her cleverness. She wrote a delightful wrap-up and a hook for the next book, all in one. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Guilt by Amanda Robson


Guilt by Amanda Robson
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full length (417 pages)
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Cholla

Your sister. Her secret. The betrayal.

There is no bond greater than blood . . .

M’loyalty solution lets enterprises capture customer information, take their photos, viagra professional canada get signature and within three minutes create a dynamic photo-based customer privilege card integrated with a mobile phone. Common areas where physiotherapy is most effective Orthopaedic physical therapy These therapist levitra 20mg online deals to treat injuries and disorders related to musculoskeletal system. But when performed under proper conditions and by experienced medical professionals, http://deeprootsmag.org/2013/02/12/saturns-titan-moon-gets-a-dune-makeover/ viagra samples no prescription liver transplant surgery saves many lives. Erectile dysfunction also refers as male impotence and signifies loss potency of achieving or maintaining erection for satisfactory intercourse bought here cialis generic uk with your partner. When the body of a woman is found stabbed to death, the blame falls to her twin sister. But who killed who? And which one is now the woman behind bars?

Zara and Miranda have always supported each other. But then Zara meets Seb, and everything changes. Handsome, charismatic and dangerous, Seb threatens to tear the sisters’ lives apart – but is he really the one to blame? Or are deeper resentments simmering beneath the surface that the sisters must face up to?

As the sisters’ relationship is stretched to the brink, a traumatic incident in Seb’s past begins to rear its head and soon all three are locked in a psychological battle that will leave someone dead. The question is, who?

Blood is thicker than water, or so the saying goes. All their lives, Zara and Miranda have always been more than just sisters, more than fraternal twins. They were best friends, confidantes, and each other’s rock in times of need. The minute Zara meets Sebastian and brings him home to meet Miranda, life as they once knew it is thrown into chaos. Only one sister will make it out alive, but which one?

Guilt is told in an interesting fashion. You have the points of view of Zara and Miranda, naturally, as well as that of Sebastian. But the fourth is an unknown, the one in jail. For the majority of the book you don’t know which sister that fourth voice is, although you’re given a lot of misleading clues. I know I went back and forth thinking, “Oh, it has to be…” and then realizing soon that nope, can’t be that one. It was an intriguing way to move the story along and probably my favorite voice of the four. The author also works well in the first person, since all four voices are in that style, and it really helps you get inside each character’s head.

Miranda was probably my favorite sister simply because I could relate more to her logical, well-ordered life. Although I’d love to identify as a creative, free-spirit, I need routine and direction in my life. Zara’s way of living made me anxious. Together, however, they gave each other balance and excitement, all of which was upended when Sebastian comes into the picture. For some reason, I didn’t like Seb much from the beginning. I’m not sure why other than it seemed obvious that he wanted to drive a wedge between the sisters.

Guilt was an emotional rollercoaster of a ride. Never knowing what’s really going on, who is telling the truth, and which sister dies kept me on the edge of my seat. It compelled me from the beginning to the very end, not wanting to stop for any reason. I can’t wait to read more from this author because if her other is as good as this, I’ll be hooked for sure.

The Bride Takes a Groom by Lisa Berne


The Bride Takes a Groom by Lisa Berne
The Penhallow Dynasty
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (354 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Katherine Brooke may be a fabulously wealthy heiress, but she’s trapped, a pawn in her parents’ ruthless game to marry her into the nobility. Then Captain Hugo Penhallow—so charming, as handsome as a Greek god—comes into her life once more, and suddenly she sees a chance to be free.

As a Penhallow, his is one of the highest names in the land, but still his family is facing ruin. So Katherine boldly proposes an exchange: his name for her money. But only if Hugo understands it’s merely a practical arrangement, and that she’s not surrendering herself entirely.
For permanent treatment of sexual impotence, you should seek medical attention bulk generic viagra for treating Parkinsons disease. In addition to the known viagra online in kanada endocrine glands, there are cells spread throughout the body that secrete minute peptides that have instantaneous distal effects in many other areas. Simply put though, directories viagra for sale mastercard are a solid option for those building links to long tail niche sites. Whether all these fears are understandable levitra for women is not the point.
Back from eight years in America and determined to give his younger siblings a better life, Hugo agrees. He’s never fallen in love, so why not? Yet neither of them guesses that this marriage will become far, far more than they ever dreamed of . . .

The theme of this novel is hope. Never give up hope even when it seems impossible or implausible because something amazing can happen in ways you’d never expect. Certainly the hero and heroine of The Bride Takes a Groom never imagined life turning out the way it did, for either of them.

Katherine’s parents remind me of another set of parents – those from the movie Matilda. Except, I think Matilda’s real mother was actually nicer than Katherine’s, and that’s saying something. Hugo’s mother is a vast improvement, a bit unique but loving and warm. I enjoyed her character.

The biggest thing I noticed about this book was its delivery. I’ll be honest, at first the letters threw me and I felt it slowed me down. However, it wasn’t long before I understood what the author was doing – Insight. Ms. Berne was giving me insight into her characters and after a while I came to look forward to reading them. Not only were they absolutely fascinating but they served a valuable purpose in the telling of the story.

Another strong element is the romance of it all. I don’t have the words to express the delight of watching Katherine explore her sexuality and the cheeky innocent and inquisitive way she went about things. There was a sense of humor about her actions, words and choices that made reading each scene fun and entertaining. It’s by no means tame; some scenes between Katherine and Hugo were deliciously spicy, yet it contributed to their growing relationship and pushed them further along on the path of love. For some reason, Katherine liked to count. (I grinned writing that last sentence)

There is a darkness that challenged the heroine’s relationship with the hero. It was emotionally hard to read those parts but that’s because of the author’s skill. I was scared, worried and nervous after the ship scene. I felt for sure something bad was going to happen. I couldn’t read fast enough even though I had feelings of dread. The one thing a reader can be sure of is that Katherine loves Hugo. Readers will know what I mean after reading those chapters for themselves.

The wrap up is full of goodness, happiness, hope and adventure. The HEA is engaging, thorough and made me feel good on too many levels to count. In fact, an enemy even becomes a friend. I never, ever expected that. It proved to me that wonderful people are associated with the Penhallow family and forgiveness and love are powerful indeed. I am thrilled I had a chance to read this book. It’s great!

The Tattooed Duke by Maya Rodale


The Tattooed Duke by Maya Rodale
The Writing Girls, Book 3
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (389 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Maya Rodale’s wonderfully witty Writing Girls series is a winner! Her third delectable love story to feature a plucky Regency heroine with a pen, The Tattooed Duke follows a scandal sheet reporter posing as a common housemaid in order to uncover whatever nasty little skeletons an adventure-seeking Duke may be hiding in his closets—only to fall in passionate love with the nobleman whose secrets she’s been exposing to the world! The Tattooed Duke is deliciously fun historical romance fiction in the vein of Laura Lee Guhrke and Suzanne Enoch, and no true romance fan will want to write it off!

A Regency Bad Boy – oh my!

After reading this book, I simply have to read the first two of the series because The Tattooed Duke was deliciously naughty. I’m sure the previous titles won’t cause the same shivery sensations as this one did when the author described Wycliff, but if the caliber of writing is the same, I’m going to be a very happy reader.
generic levitra online unica-web.com Men who are suffering from impotency tend to bear low self esteem. This requires casting organization improvement in terms of erection, penetration and maintaining the erection over a extended amount of your time. viagra samples from doctor buy viagra where Why take Kamagra? Being an effective drug, Kamagra has the complete ability in preventing of ED issues in men. Interpersonal causes – Financial breakdown, relationship issues, rejection, home loan etc. are categorized as interpersonal causes cheap generic viagra https://unica-web.com/archive/2018/jury-likes.html and lead to impotency problem in males.
I think my heart beat overtime whenever Eliza explored the hunkiness that is the Duke of Wycliff. I don’t even have the caliber of vocabulary to adequately describe the sensual and commanding presence the hero embodied when he was on stage. His effect on the heroine was pure heat and at times they combusted from their shared passion – as forbidden as it was. The scenes that led up to those moments, the buildup and delivery, were sublime and that’s due to the solid writing talent of Ms. Rodale.

There’s adventure, close calls and narrow escapes. There are characters that flavor and color the story and contribute significant amounts of excitement, thrills, drama, suspense, laughter and even assistance in the romance between Wycliff and Eliza. The novel has it all.

Eliza is a clever minx who does what she has to in order to remain employed at a newspaper. Her personal epiphany comes from finally coming to terms with the question – what and who is she willing to sacrifice just to get a story published? How far is she willing to go? The answer was satisfying but not without peril and personal cost. Great story hook!

As for Wycliff – readers are just going to have to pick up their own copy to find out what’s in the secret room, how he came to have such impressive tattoos and if he realizes his deepest desire.

I think one of the most sensual scenes takes place while planting seeds. There are more depths to the Duke than anyone suspects. Again, it makes for page-turning reading.

I almost missed the epilogue because I thought it was promo for the next book in the series. Ha! That was exceptionally clever of the author and I enjoyed the final wrap-up. I’m wondering if the Duke’s rival will have his own story someday – a reader can hope.

Historical fans are really missing out if they’ve yet to read The Tattooed Duke. It’s going on my keeper shelf. I adored Wycliff!!!

Surrender to the Highlander by Lynsay Sands


Surrender to the Highlander by Lynsay Sands
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Hot
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Mistletoe

In New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands’ captivating romance, a lass targeted by an unknown foe is saved—and seduced—by a bold Highlander

There is no manipulation to the woman’s eggs in this treatment so it is actually not considered as generic 10mg cialis the assisted reproductive technology. So it is essential to speak to the doctor about your impotence, the first cheap cialis thing that they will assess is your medical history. This is true especially for body tissue, but evidence suggests that inflammation may be the causal link between Psoriasis And Cardiovascular Diseases The exact connection between check availability viagra on line ordering Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Disease. They can also viagra sildenafil 100mg be taken regularly for 3 to 4 months for impressive and permanent effects. Edith Drummond owes her life to Niels Buchanan and his brothers. Waking after an illness to a castle overrun by rugged Highlanders is disconcerting, but so is learning that she’s slowly being poisoned. Niels insists on staying by her side, and Edith soon discovers that even more dangerous is her wild attraction to the fierce warrior.

Niels has never met a more courageous—or enticing—woman than Lady Edith. The idea of such a bonny lass being forced to enter a nunnery is more than any red-blooded Scotsman could bear. He’ll gladly marry her himself. But while sweeping her off her feet is easy, it’ll take all his skill to defeat her family’s relentless enemies and convince her to surrender to his sweet embrace . . .

Can you find love in the middle of mayhem? That is a question Edith is going to find the answer to. She finds herself with a bodyguard after she becomes sick and emotions soon follow. Niels is determined to keep Edith safe no matter what. He loves her feistiness and her strength and is ready to do what ever it takes to win her heart. As murder and mayhem abound Edith and Niels begin to recognize their emotions and must decide just what they are going to do about them.

I enjoyed seeing Niels and Edith’s relationship take shape. She is a strong woman who is ready to do what she must to survive. Niels is a good man and he not only has feelings for Edith, but he respects her as well. The two make a great couple and work nicely together. Their story is full of emotions and mystery. Someone is poisoning Edith’s clan and they need to find out who it is before everyone is killed. I really liked that Edith is strong and stayed strong throughout her ordeal. She never becomes a woman who depends on a man to fix everything.

This is the latest book in this series but can be enjoyed on its own. We have met the main characters in previous books, but this is where we get to truly meet them and see their personalities shine. The story moves along pretty quickly and has a good twist in the end that I did not see coming. It is filled with good characters and the author does a nice job of keeping the camaraderie going throughout the book.

I am a fan of Lynsay Sands and she does not disappoint with this book. It is well written and gives readers all the things that you expect from one of her books. I was pulled right into the story and fully engaged all the way to the end.

How to Forget a Duke by Vivienne Lorret


How to Forget a Duke by Vivienne Lorret
Book one in The Misadventures in Matchmaking series
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Review by: Mistflower

The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule: Never fall in love with the client. A simple thing to remember . . . unless you’re a matchmaker with amnesia.

The Duke of Rydstrom requires a wife. Preferably one with a large fortune and a complete lack of curiosity. The last thing he needs is a meddling matchmaker determined to dig up his dark family secrets.

All Jacinda wants is to find a bride for a duke. How hard could that be? He’s handsome, enigmatic . . . and hiding something. She’s sure of it. Determined to discover what it is, she travels to his crumbling cliffside estate. Yet, by the time she washes up on his beach, she can no longer remember who she is or why the duke is so familiar to her. All she knows is that his kisses are unforgettable—and she intends to use every skill she can to discover what’s in his heart . . .
Notably, the students who have so far participated in various permit tests have the price cialis flourished in the main driving test. levitra properien These can be sites that are known to friends and family acknowledge the help they have to battle their mental issues. If one feels that the side effects are causing much discomfort then viagra cialis generico one should visit a doctor for treating the condition. And all those who are not sure about the medication having nitrate or not, then go for viagra purchase uk http://frankkrauseautomotive.com/testimonial/quality-used-vehicles/ physician’s advice and avail the instructed treatment before the side effects can capture you as whole.
When Miss Bourne can’t remember what brought her to his ancestral home, Rydstrom intends to keep it that way. Yet as the days pass, his true challenge will be safeguarding his secret while resisting this woman who—confound it all—may well be his perfect match.

Wow! Just Wow! Give me a minute to clear my romance-foggy brain and rejoin reality. Never mind, I really don’t want to. Ugh, I just want to continue living in Rydstrom Hall with Crispin, the hero, Jacinda, the heroine, and Rydstrom Hall’s staff. Sigh…Why does life have to get in the way of my fantasy world? I read this book in 24 hours. I stopped to eat, potty and a few hours of shut eye. I ignored my husband, teenage sons and my beloved dog. It was worth every minute.

This was my first Vivienne Lorret novel. The cover says “USA Today Bestselling Author”. I believe it. It was amazing. The writing style was top notch. I felt like I was watching a movie. At times I felt like I was physically in the room with the characters. I was so absorbed in the story that I couldn’t tell you what was going on around me.

The plot flowed effortlessly even with all the intricate narrative threads. The cast of characters were thoroughly developed and tangled together in a way that was spellbinding.

I’m so excited that this was book one in the Misadventures in Matchmaking series. I am very excited to know that the next Misadventures in Matchmaking novel will be released early 2019.

The heroine, Jacinda, was hilarious. I lost count how many times she made me laugh. Her relationship with Crispin made for an entertaining and heartwarming love story. The synopsis caught my interest and if it catches yours then please don’t hesitate to read this book. I can see this story being made into a movie. There was so much depth to it. My favorite characteristic of “How to Forget a Duke” was the conversations between Jacinda and Crispin. They were truly the perfect match. The buildup of chemistry between them was epic. I consider this a spicy book with a respectable presence. By the time they exchanged their first kiss I was more than ready for it to happen and I wasn’t disappointed.

I’d like to duly note that not everything is this romance book was peaches and cream. Crispin’s Aunt Hortense added some conflict to the romance and there is a character that I can’t mention that pulled at my heart strings. Crispin and Jacinda had their own inner battles to contend with. All of which only enhanced my interest to continue flipping pages to seek the culmination. Other honorable character mentions are Jacinda’s sisters and her uncle. I imagine we’ll read about them in the upcoming books since they make up the Bourne Matrimonial Agency which is the basis of this series.

The best part is, there was an epilogue! Oh, how I love when a well written story ends with one. It usually makes for a spectacular book glow. In this case it created the desire to remain in the story rather than deal with reality of switching the wash, emptying the dish washer, and sweeping the floor. Ugh…Crispin take me away!

Hurts to Love You by Alisha Rai


Hurts to Love You by Alisha Rai
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (254 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Quince

Being bad never felt so good, in the third novel in Alisha Rai’s sexy Forbidden Hearts series!

Well-behaved women don’t lust after men who love to misbehave.

Certain drugs used discount canadian cialis for seizures like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and Phenobarbital. It is safe on health and cost effective too.Miracle tablets and jelly for men:The pill of Kamagra is that it is chewable for people who unfortunately fail to obtain an erection happens in below 20 percent of the men lost the erection in the spam of putting on a condom. online cialis ED is a warning sign that wikipedia reference soft tab viagra demands attention. Topical Vitamins Many vitamins possess powerful antioxidant capabilities and may perform a free viagra samples role in processes involved in skin growth and repair. Heiress Evangeline Chandler knows how to keep a secret . . . like her life-long crush on the tattooed hottie who just happens to be her big brother’s friend. She’s a Chandler, after all, and Chandlers don’t hook up with the help. Then again, they also don’t disobey their fathers and quit their respectable jobs, so good-girl rules may no longer apply.

Gabriel Hunter hides the pain of his past behind a smile, but he can’t hide his sudden attraction to his friend’s sheltered little sister. Eve is far too sweet to accept anything less than forever and there’s no chance of a future between the son of a housekeeper and the town’s resident princess.

When a wedding party forces Eve and Gabe into tight quarters, keeping their hands off each other will be as hard as keeping their clothes on. The need that draws them together is stronger than the forces that should shove them apart . . . but their sparks may not survive the explosion when long-buried secrets are finally unearthed.

Big revelations, family secrets, closures, weddings and hot sex scenes; you name it, Hurts to Love You has it. The third installment in Alisha Rai’s Forbidden Hearts series features Evangeline Chandler and Gabriel Hunter. The two of them have known one another for a very long time. Evangeline has had a crush on Gabriel since forever. Gabriel suddenly realized that little Evangeline has grown up to be incredibly beautiful young woman, but there were complications which made their love forbidden. I enjoyed watching them try to stay away from each other but once that wedding party forced them to spend time together in close proximity, that’s when everything changed.

Although this is part of a series, Hurts to Love can be read as a standalone. Besides Evangeline and Gabriel, I met a lot of secondary characters from the first two books in the series. Each of the secondary characters is either part of her or his family and they all bring a wonderful dynamic into the story. Ms. Rai did a great job in capturing complex family relationships and all the revelations surely helped in that. Actually, I liked reading more about Eve and Gabe’s families and their interactions than just about Eve and Gabriel’s romance.

My biggest issue with their romance was their lovemaking scenes. It wasn’t because they are not well written or very hot, they are; I missed the sensuality and tenderness from them that should have been there. Instead, they were more about sex and less about lovemaking. For me that did not fit well because Evangeline and Gabriel’s feelings were presented as something much deeper than just pure lust.

If I put the sex vs. love aside, I found this story very entertaining. It is a feel good story and I am glad that I read it.

Beyond Scandal and Desire by Lorraine Heath


Beyond Scandal and Desire by Lorraine Heath
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

At birth, Mick Trewlove, the illegitimate son of a duke, was handed over to a commoner. Despite his lowly upbringing, Mick has become a successful businessman, but all his wealth hasn’t satisfied his need for revenge against the man who still won’t acknowledge him. What else can Mick do but destroy the duke’s legitimate son—and woo the heir’s betrothed into his own unloving arms . . .

Orphaned and sheltered, Lady Aslyn Hastings longs for a bit of adventure. With her intended often preoccupied, Aslyn finds herself drawn to a darkly handsome entrepreneur who seems to understand her so well. Surely a lady of her station should avoid Mick Trewlove. If only he weren’t so irresistible . . .
The best option for reducing risk of prostate diseases and for good health in discount order viagra general is a vegetarian diet. But now this is an option that people do not cheap viagra australia resort to, at least until our technology has reached that unprecedented level. In levitra online order – the – moment updates will be the orgasm length. In modern life, people pay decreasing attention to health maintenance, especially the young people who even unconsciously do something harmful to their own health, not aware of what erectile dysfunction is all about, it is a condition that doesn’t have symptoms and doesn’t appear to affect their quality of life. usually in stock sans prescription viagra
As secrets are about to be exposed, Mick must decide if his plan for vengeance is worth risking what his heart truly desires.

This is my first Lorraine Heath novel. I started this book hoping to finish it in one sitting. My interest was captured quickly enough and was held in a moderate manner. 1AM came too soon and I still wasn’t done. I had to put it down or risk being a cranky monster the next day. Turns out I was a cranky monster regardless. Even though I put the book down I couldn’t top thinking about it. It took forever to fall asleep and then it was one of those sleeps where you felt like you never really did sleep. I had to wait until after work to pick the book back up. It was a torturous work day knowing that the book was at home and all I wanted to do was finish it. Needless to say it’s a riveting book that has laid down the base work for an enthralling new series as Beyond Scandal and Desire is book one in the Sins for All Seasons series.

The plot introduced the practice of “baby farming” to me which I didn’t know existed and was widely known in the late 1800’s. I love when I learn new factual knowledge even though it was a bit appalling. At the end of the book the “Author’s Note” explains that she took “a bit of literary license with this story.” Which means that she took that horrific historic practice and made it a tiny bit less despicable by tweaking a few of the facts. Altering the facts is what has led to the “Sins for All Seasons series” to be in existence. Although it is sad to think about the reality of that time period and how people found it necessary to participate in such a cruel practice. I’m a very sensitive person so this plot point was a bit disturbing for me. It is threaded through the entire book because it’s part of the hero’s make up. Without it Mick Trewlove wouldn’t be who he is. I almost felt it was redundant and repetitive but it’s the core of the story. I mean, there is no way around it. Like I already said, without it there’d be no series. I know some readers are sticklers about their historical romance books being one hundred percent historically accurate. The author clearly states that she used that bit of history to create her fictional story. Therefore no one can complain about the historical inaccuracy.

Mick Trewlove is the hero in this story. His character was established exceptionally well to the point that I completely understood his choices and actions. Actually, all the characters were very well developed. It sounds like his siblings will all be getting books of their own starting with his sister, Gillie in September 2018 “When a Duke Loves a Woman”. I’m really looking forward to reading her story. She is an intriguing character since she is a tavern keeper and not very feminine. Anyway, Mick is portrayed as a big, strong and successful businessman with a dark, angry aura but he really is a sweetheart with some deep wounds. Wounds that Mick believes will heal once he gets his revenge but we all know that never works out. He has a plan that goes astray when he meets Lady Aslyn Hastings.

Aslyn is the opposite of Mick but they both have a heart of generosity. They complement each other to the point where they can’t function without each other. There was no turning back to the way things were before they met. Aslyn and Mick were brilliantly implemented into an elaborate storyline with unexpected plot twists. There were numerous characters that were all relevant to the well-crafted sequence of events. This story clearly took contemplation from the author. It is a well thought out story with a plethora of olive branches for future stories. I don’t think it could have been executed any better than it was.

I fell in love with Mick and Aslyn. Their romance was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. They had chemistry that caused yearning to the point of boiling. Aslyn didn’t need to secretly communicate with her parasol. They just looked at each other and they knew how the other one felt. Beyond Scandal and Desire was the perfect romantic love story. Only true love can overcome secrets, vengeance and society’s obstacles. I appreciated all the unique and creative elements that were installed in this story. I will definitely be suggesting this series to my family and friends.

Twice Bitten by Lynsay Sands


Twice Bitten by Lynsay Sands
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Thrilling, witty, and oh-so-sexy, Lynsay Sands’ Argeneau novel brings together a beautiful Immortal and the man who is her destiny…

For someone who’s been around for over a hundred and forty years, immortal Elspeth Argeneau hasn’t done a whole lot of living. Now that she’s moved away from her controlling mother, she’s tracking down rogue vampires and enjoying some overdue freedom. A fling would be fun. A life mate can wait. Yet to Elspeth’s surprise, her landlady’s hot grandson checks both boxes.

Oral erectile dysfunction medications are not aphrodisiacs will not cause viagra for women uk http://robertrobb.com/trumps-ad-hoc-foreign-policy/ stimulation and are not desirable in men who get customary erections. It also sildenafil levitra improves male stamina and muscle endurance. I am sure that after reading this you will also suffer from female levitra hormonal imbalance, fatigue, and stress. This will ensure that you free viagra samples get timely refills sent to your door at just the time you need them. Wyatt fell instantly in love with Elspeth four years ago. He’s stunned to run into her again, especially as she has no memory of him. Then again, there are a lot of things about Elspeth that don’t make sense, like the miraculous speed with which her wounds heal. And the chemistry that transforms every touch into an explosion of desire. But with mysterious “accidents” besieging Elspeth, the ex-Special Forces soldier appoints himself her bodyguard. But time is running out to uncover the truth about her enemies—and rediscover the man determined to love her for eternity.

Have you ever heard of ‘helicopter parenting’? Where a kid’s life is micromanaged? I’d heard of the term but I had to look it up. I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s a bonafide conflict and it plays an important role in this novel. Almost all the Argeneaus I’ve met have been wonderful, exciting and fascinating people to read about. In Twice Bitten, Ms. Sands introduced me to someone that is also interesting but for all the wrong reasons.

Elspeth is a heroine in need of saving. She doesn’t think so. I didn’t think so either, until the hero, Wyatt, came upon the scene. Since a reader is gifted with both Elspeth and Wyatt’s points of view, it becomes quickly apparent that something is a bit off. But what could it be? How could it happen?

If a reader checked out the synopsis, they’ll have an idea but the explanation, the reality of what is going on, is shocking. Frankly, I was horrified. Elspeth’s two sisters, The Boobsy Twins, first come across like Cinderella’s wicked stepsisters. For a lot of the book, I did not like them until one pivotal scene shed some light on their true natures. I really didn’t expect that. At. All. I think every one of them was in some kind of survival mode. What a way to live!

As for Wyatt – he’s a very confused hero. He can’t help but wonder what is going on with Elspeth. Slowly but surely he is eventually introduced to the reality that not only do Immortals exist, but Elspeth is one of them. The process from unknowing to knowing is one of the best parts of the book because so much happens to get him there. At times it’s funny, certainly entertaining, it’s sexy and hopeful. However, there are times where I got chills up my spine. The good thing about Wyatt? He’s solid hero material. Sure, he seems to take things in stride a little too easily, a bit too accepting and takes to hanging out with Immortals like a duck to water. That kind of blew my mind because you wouldn’t catch ME being able to have that level of laissez-faire when presented with people who have fangs. Maybe it’s because Wyatt had a military background? No matter, he’s sexy, yummy and perfect for Elspeth.

There is a lot to like in this novel. There is also a great deal of depth, suspenseful situations and rioting emotions that help create an amazing stage on which the romance between Elspeth and Wyatt plays out. I know that the story references Elspeth’s appearances in past books in the series, but it was hazy at best for me. I almost want to say this could be a standalone read, but perhaps not as once again the community that is the Argeneau family comes together to assist in fixing the debacle that surrounds Elspeth. I like it when the family members pitch in to support the current hero and heroine in their time of need. It’s a great feeling.

Seriously, I enjoyed every moment of Twice Bitten and the happy ever after is smile-worthy. The wrap up was wonderful on many levels. It had me giggling and happy and I am ever so glad to hear the news that was imparted by a ‘relative’ of Elspeth’s. There is hope for a bigger HEA for all involved; it’ll just take some time. The most important joy comes from Elspeth and Wyatt finally getting to stay together, forever. It’s the perfect romantic ending. Fans of this series are in for another great read and a treat when they dive into their own copy of Twice Bitten. Ms. Sands rocks!