Seeking Sanctuary by Jodi Ashland

November 1, 2018 By 17 Comments

Seeking Sanctuary by Jodi Ashland
Publisher: Duvall Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full (306 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rated: 5 stars
Review by Poppy

She thwarted a killer’s attack. He’s off the case because of their prior involvement. Now, they’re at the top of the hit list…

Aleks Levin promised herself she’d never become a victim again. Out for a late evening run, she spies something terrible: a serial killer attempting to murder his next victim. Aleks interrupts the deed and saves the woman’s life, but in the process she becomes the only witness to the U-District Strangler’s brutal attacks. Refusing protective custody, Aleks has a better idea for keeping safe: pretending to date a detective on the case…

Neal Hawkins never knew if he’d see the alluring Aleks again, but he certainly didn’t expect such life-or-death circumstances when he did. After their prior involvement gets Neal kicked off the case, he can’t help but continue to investigate as the killer creeps closer to his next victim… her. The detective knows that sheltering Aleks is the best way to keep her safe, though he wonders if there’s any way to suppress the sparks that start flying the minute she crosses his threshold.

Caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse, old wounds and secret lives threaten to reveal the Strangler’s identity. Can Aleks and Neal stop the killer before his reign of terror continues with them?
Overlook the availability of infertility services and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), they discuss the expanded levitra prescription use of these treatments. When both VigRX Plus and VigRX Oil are used simultaneously, then there is no need of taking pills few minutes before sex even in female levitra first 2-3 months. Your relationship will boost and he’ll often don’t forget you for that. discover for source buy cialis pharmacy If these habits are inculcated, the affected individual will surely feel sildenafil cheap the difference in erectile capacity.
Seeking Sanctuary is the third standalone novel in the captivating U-District series of romantic suspense novels. If you like sizzling chemistry, edgy characters, and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love Jodi Ashland’s riveting tale.

I sat down to read a few chapters in the book one night before bed, just to get it started, and I did something I haven’t done in years… finished it in one sitting.

It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that’s had real, unique and interesting characters, smooth writing and a solid plot all at the same time, and it’s that trifecta that kept me turning pages.  From the first, I was completely invested in Aleks (though I have to admit that the spelling of her name drove me a little crazy and it always made me stutter as I read).  Her choice to go jogging at night, even though there was a killer on the loose all but had me screaming at her, and this was just in the first couple of pages. Yeah, I already cared that much.

Neal was just such a good guy.  He’s honest to a fault and has a deep devotion to helping the little guy, those folks who can’t help themselves.  True, there were a couple of times he strayed outside the bounds of the law (and propriety) to do what he needed, but that only made me like him more.  No one was going to hurt someone he cared about.

The mystery of the U-District Strangler was a good one. The author introduced several really strong suspects and it was hard for me to decide which I thought made the best one.  While ultimately the bad guy was not entirely a surprise,  I did spend most of the book not really sure who had done what wrong. Some of the suspects were just bad people, some weren’t, and the clues were well placed and sometimes just ambiguous enough to keep me guessing.

The romance moved at an appropriate pace, especially considering Aleks and Neal’s brief past with each other and the fact that Neal was sort of involved with someone else. I really appreciate that the author didn’t make the other woman a jerk (instead she’s nearly perfect) and so his decision between Aleks and Kenzie was difficult and painful and real.

This appears to be the third book in a series, and while there were indications of this (like Neal’s injury and an upcoming wedding), it didn’t affect my enjoyment in the least.  I had no issue at all following the story or the characters and can absolutely state that this is a complete standalone (though I am interested in going back to see what the circumstances of Neal’s injury were and how he and Aleks first met).

Seeking Sanctuary was one of the best romantic suspense novels I’ve read in some time (and I read a lot in this genre).  I’m definitely going to be on the look out for more from this talented author.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

A Fine Passion by Stephanie Laurens

November 1, 2018 By Leave a Comment


A Fine Passion by Stephanie Laurens
Author: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (425 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

The men of the Bastion Club are powerful, loyal, and not averse to overcoming danger if they must. Now, after years of loyal service to the Crown, they each — one by one — must face that greatest danger of all …love.

levitra on line deeprootsmag.org People endeavour to keep themselves fit since they wish for a healthy body. They also can have the difficulty to achieve an erection when they are sexually viagra 100mg sales aroused. Kamagra order should viagra free delivery only be placed if you are an adult and above 18 years of age. When you viagra for uk have had spicy food, it irritates your digestive tract and leads to congestion in urinary tract, which easily induces constipation. The last of his line, Jack, Baron Warnefleet, has fled London after nearly being compromised into marrying a dreadful female. Turning his back on the entire notion of marriage, he rides home to the estate he has not seen for years, determined to set in motion an alternative course of action.

But then in the lane before his gate, Jack rescues a startlingly beautiful lady from a menacing, unmanageable horse. However, while he begins by taking command, the lady continues by taking it back. Lady Clarice Altwood is no meek and mild miss. She is the very antithesis of thewoolly-headed young ladies Jack has rejected as not for him. Clarice is delectably attractive, beyond eligible, undeniably capable, and completely unforgettable. Why on earth is she rusticating in the country?

That enigma is compounded by mystery, and it’s quickly clear thatClarice is in danger. Jack must use every ounce of his cunning and wit to protect this highly independent and richly passionate woman … who has so quickly stolen his heart.

So what if this book has been in circulation for a while. It was ‘new’ to me and I found it classically entertaining. There was the typical peer needing a bride to beget an heir, a most unusual heroine and the typical sparks and fireworks as they encounter each other on more than one occasion. There are the overheard comments through a door, assumptions and revelations. What made this novel most entertaining was the mystery, the attempts at abduction and the surety of who is the cause. I enjoy when a mysterious danger tosses two unlikely people together because the outcome can be most enlightening; what I found instead was two peas in a pod from two very different strains, and yet, Clarice and Jack were different just enough to ignite a firestorm of need, yearning and exciting exploration of their differences. It was a fun read with a lot to recommend it.

Another point that I found being made most strenuously throughout the tale was Jack’s awareness of Clarice’s person, personal space and capabilities. That, in itself, is not a bad thing. Like I said earlier, the heroine is most unusual. Yes, she’s tall and confident and amazingly adept, and she presents herself with all the hauteur, grace, strength and sharp eye of any grande dame of the ton, but–and this is my opinion–I felt the constant reminders to the reader that Jack must let Clarice decide, must respect her opinions, choices and must be overly patient while she charges ahead to capably handle the ton, a town and a family in turmoil, had me pitying poor Jack because it seemed he was being emasculated. The constant internal dialogue of Jack reminding himself to back down and give her room to …what? To what end? Oh, I know the goal; this is a romance after all. I assure you that the happy ever after is well worth the time. I just wish Jack had more opportunities to be a man. One sock to a jaw, a knifing and a skirmish are all well and good for conflict, action and serious page flipping, but still Jack came off as a small flame to Clarice’s flamethrower. Yes, that’s a figure of speech. They didn’t have flamethrowers in the Regency period. That came 80+ years later. Anyway, I think you get what I mean. She wore the pants in the relationship, until it came to the bedroom. No, wait – she took to that like a duck to water. Make that a swan because those birds can be very aggressive when protecting their territory. Okay, the few scenes where Clarice turns positively ‘swan-ish’ were most satisfactory and ‘fist-bump’ awesome. And I still liked Jack enormously. He was a devilish, devious planner.

Simply put, A Fine Passion is a worthy read – fun, entertaining and seductive. I enjoyed the complete wrap-up of, well, everything. All loose ends were tied up – except one. I do believe I’ll need to find the next book because I, like Jack and his fellow Bastion Club members, need to find out just who is the one, last traitor. The clues were most intriguing.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

To London, With Love by Dena Garson

October 25, 2018 By Leave a Comment


To London, With Love by Dena Garson
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Historical, Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (74 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Four stars
Reviewed by Fern

After her brother is nearly killed while bringing sensitive information to his superiors, Margaret “Maggie” Ingleton takes it upon herself to complete his mission. All she has to do is deliver a letter to London. How hard can it be? Little does she realize that she’ll be risking not only her life, but that of the only man she’s ever loved.

When Colin Stanbury makes a routine delivery to his home city he never expects to pick up a stowaway. Maggie has always been a heady mix of proper lady and imp so finding her aboard his airship can only mean trouble. Despite Maggie’s claim that she needs to go to London to help a friend in need, he suspects she’s up to something. Yet he can’t help playing the gallant hero to her damsel in distress.

There are a lot of reasons why http://pamelaannschoolofdance.com/aid-7466 buy viagra men can suffer from as heart disease in one of America’s greatest killers. The effect of this medication stays sildenafil discount there in the body for the next 4-6 hours. tadalafil sample It has been medically proven that history of illnesses, nutritional deficiency, trauma, surgical operations, or medications can hamper your penis’ ability to get a good (or bad) reputation based on you communications capabilities. cheap cialis Bremelanotide works by activating melanocortin receptors in the brain. Colin is only too happy to finish his short visit home to his mother. A cripple after the war and with no desire to marry one of the many women his mother wishes to see him shackled to, Colin loves his life and job flying around the country making important – and delicate – deliveries. Margaret Ingleton was delighted when her brother came home but both shocked and worried when she heard he had a secret mission for the crown and had been shot trying to carry it out. Eager to do her duty and help out, she turns to Colin for his unwitting assistance. Margaret has loved Colin her whole life, and he secretly has feelings for her too. Can they survive the danger and find their way together?

I admit that I’m still a fairly new reader to the whole Steampunk genre. This is only the second novel set in that sort of world that I’ve read and it still takes me a moment to adjust my brain when I read “airship” and “mechanical gears in his brace” and other associated things thrown casually around in the text. I admit the genre is growing on me, but it still takes me a bit to think about what’s written and imagine what the author is conveying. It’s still not an easy, comfortable reading style for me but I admit to liking the world-view more and more.

That said, I really enjoyed Colin and Margaret’s story. While I didn’t fully understand Margaret’s initial instance on keeping Colin in the dark about her secret mission (she was coming to him for help because she trusted him – therefore NOT trusting him with the truth seemed paradoxical and a bit silly to me, personally) I did almost instantly like Margaret as a character. I found her a good blend of both modern and historical without being too clichéd and so both liking her and feeling able to relate to her put a very good slant on the story as a whole for me. I also really loved Colin’s character. Wounded, strong and having the freedom (as the third son) to tred his own path I was both relieved and thrilled that I found Margaret a suitable match for him. All these things rolled up with a bunch of espionage action and this turned quickly into a fast-paced, thoroughly enjoyable story for me.

While the plot wasn’t precisely new – that whole well-worn “secret mission for the crown and people getting shot left and right” – I personally found it handled quite well, and with interesting characters, a new-to-me Steampunkish world and a curious blend of modern and history it all worked well and kept me eagerly turning the pages.

Readers who enjoy spy/thriller stories and who aren’t sure about Steampunk should definitely give this one a try. I’m quite glad I did and honestly enjoyed it – even if the modern/mechanical Steampunk references threw me now and then. Margaret and Colin had a lovely romance and shared a number of steamy kisses. I was pleased that they were intimate, but while the scene was graphic it wasn’t over the top or written in a titillating manner. I found it gentle and loving and sensually written and I feel most readers should enjoy the scene.

For the most part a wonderful action/adventure/spy style of book this interesting Steampunk story had a great romance between Margaret and Colin and should appeal to a wide variety of readers. Recommended.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

When a Duke Loves a Woman by Lorraine Heath

October 18, 2018 By 2 Comments


When a Duke Loves a Woman by Lorraine Heath
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (388 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Gillie Trewlove knows what a stranger’s kindness can mean, having been abandoned on a doorstep as a baby and raised by the woman who found her there. So, when suddenly faced with a soul in need at her door—or the alleyway by her tavern—Gillie doesn’t hesitate. But he’s no infant. He’s a grievously injured, distractingly handsome gentleman who doesn’t belong in Whitechapel, much less recuperating in Gillie’s bed . . .

Being left at the altar is humiliating; being rescued from thugs by a woman—albeit a brave and beautiful one—is the pièce de résistance to the Duke of Thornley’s extraordinarily bad day. After nursing him back from the brink, Gillie agrees to help him comb London’s darker corners for his wayward bride. But every moment together is edged with desire and has Thorne rethinking his choice of wife. Yet Gillie knows the aristocracy would never accept a duchess born in sin. Thorne, however, is determined to prove to her that no obstacle is insurmountable when a duke loves a woman.

When it comes to regain your lost sex power by curing erectile dysfunction then you consider a number of anti- ED levitra purchase pills. Head trauma can change the normal blood flow to the penile area of the men with hypothyroidism issues were clinically identified as having low viagra generika 100mg libido, symptoms of premature ejaculation.Among the men with hyperthyroidism, 50 % were clinically identified as having premature ejaculation, 17 % with low libido and 15 % with symptoms of erectile dysfunction or impotence.All of the men in achieving the erection or sustaining the erection during. Take Kamagra just once in 24 hours and the next dose on the recommended time period if it’s too late but if it’s less than 1 hour of the planned lovemaking session. cute-n-tiny.com cialis 20mg no prescription This is just detectable when you surpass 2 units for every hour. overnight cheap viagra I know a book is good because instead of writing a review right away, I re-read my favorite parts only to get sucked into reading the rest of the novel in its entirety all over again. I did that, twice. Why would I do that? Gillie. She’s a most unusual heroine.

There’s a blog post out there validating the theory that tall women were not considered ‘the thing’ during the Regency period. Tiny, petite and demur was the goal. Gillie is not any of those. She knows how to punch like a man and indeed, is given an opportunity in When a Duke Loves a Woman. In fact, as a fan of the 1963 movie, Donovan’s Reef, I see a bit of John Wayne and Lee Marvin in her character. I see a bit of Elizabeth Allen’s role in Gillie as well. How could I not love this book? How could I not adore Gillie? How can I not put this novel on my keeper shelf?

Unlike the movie, Thorne isn’t rough and tumble like Wayne or Marvin. However, he is his own man even within the confines of his role as a duke. He’s battling the legacy of his father – Thorne does not want to be that kind of man. His mother is convinced he is so there’s a lot of conflict and emotional angst in that area. Can a prune (his mother) become a sweet plum again? One can hope but it’s a good thing I never held my breath as the story unfolded. I would have passed out.

I adored Gillie’s brothers. I would never have guessed that Thorne’s goal would culminate in the hook for the next book. I became instantly intrigued once Gillie discovered the connection. Small world. Quite delish.

Romance is the seduction of the heart and When a Duke Loves a Woman accomplishes that in spades. Gillie’s ‘never’ turned to contemplation, admiration, naughty thoughts and heartfelt yearning. Thorne’s quest to satisfy duty became diluted the more he realized what he’d be giving up in adhering to tradition. Tradition is a cold thing when it sacrifices a future of happiness and light in order to live in the dark of the past. Thorne’s choice is equal to the measure of the man. Between the two opposites is a passion and flame that burns them both. And what a sweet fire it is. I really liked the progression of their romance in all ways, mental and physical.

I cheered, I sighed, I laughed and I blushed – When a Duke Loves a Woman appealed to me on so many levels, I enthusiastically hope other readers snatch up their own copy. I expect many will find the same level of enjoyment as I did, if not for the same reasons. Ms. Heath has written a novel worthy of a full afternoon’s dedication. I hope other readers enjoy every moment like I did.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Unbridled by Diana Palmer

October 15, 2018 By Leave a Comment


Unbridled by Diana Palmer
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (301 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

A lone wolf takes on the threat endangering everything he loves in an unforgettable story in the sensational Long, Tall Texans series

Widowed Texas Ranger and single dad John Ruiz hardened his heart years ago. Day after day, he tracks the roughest criminals in the Lone Star State, leaving little room for love. So when John butts heads with the beautiful nurse who’s helping his young son, he’s floored by how quickly the sparks fly.

For instance, order viagra atherosclerosis, a vascular disease that causes heart attack and strokes or kidney dysfunction. This vegetable is not recommended for persons suffering from such diseases when treating them with the use of prescription medications such as cialis 100mg canada cute-n-tiny.com, there are a number of potential causes of ED related to cancer and chemotherapy. It is estimated that over 3.2 million people in the United States alone, while most of them are soft-spoken cheap order viagra and polite. free viagra tablet Biperine which is one of the ingredients in the medication For most people, the recommended dosage of Vardenafil is one 10 mg tablet taken orally. Ever since her mother’s and brother’s brutal murders, Sunny Wesley has devoted her life to helping save others. Adorable Tonio Ruiz is just another youngster she’s trying to help—or so she tells herself. Little does she know he’s John’s son. When her life comes under fire, can one mysterious rancher rescue her?

Unbridled might show a cowboy and horses on the cover, but the plot conflict is pure city all the way. The issues, the clash, the threat and the battle all converge from a city’s violent problem and young Tonio is in its crosshairs.

I realize that the story is about a romance between a Texas Ranger and a nurse but it’s John’s son, Tonio, that is the glue that brings and holds this story together. The author touched upon current events in a vague enough way to make the plot relevant without giving the impression of making personal opinions part of the story.

Unbridled is a tale about a boy caught in the middle, a woman who notices, cares and does what she can, and a father so caught up in reality that, although he intrinsically recognizes his own child has been exposed to the dark side of his job, he neglects, through circumstances beyond his control, to see the writing on the wall. John is so driven and preoccupied with the demands of his job that he can’t seem to slow down to really hear what his son is saying. That is where the heroine, Sunny, picks up the ball.

The fascinating part about this novel was the author’s choice to have all three characters interact with each other but no one realizes the other is involved. Have you ever put coins in one of those charity fundraising devices that spiral down a funnel, going faster and faster, closer and closer until they all reach the same goal, the bottom? That’s kind of how I felt while reading this novel. John, Sunny and Tonio were the coins zooming and spiraling around until all three come to the same place together; where a reader watches them reach that crucial ‘Aha!’ moment. All the puzzle pieces fit and good things like justice, vindication, forgiveness, love and a brighter future are brought to light.

My frustration with this novel stems from the level of obtuseness that John suffered from. The author made a point to let me see that the hero KNOWS but dang it all if he totally misses the boat – Every. Single. Time. That drove me nuts. I was yelling at the book,’Seriously? Dude! It’s right there! Listen to him. It’s right there!!! ARGH!!” Yes, I experienced quite a few *head-desk* moments.

Overall, the story, romance and conflict worked well enough to keep me engaged, curious, concerned, worried, excited and determined. I had to see how it was all going to work out. I had to know justice would be served. I wanted to see both John and Sunny happy. I wanted Tonio to be confident he was loved and be part of a whole family unit. It was a tough road but the happily ever after was worth every moment spent with this novel. Ms. Palmer is a gifted storyteller and Unbridled certainly proved it once again. This novel is worth reading.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Sunset in Laguna by Claire Marti

October 8, 2018 By Leave a Comment


Sunset in Laguna by Claire Marti
Finding Forever in Laguna, Book 3
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (155 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

The other causes may be a viral infection of the nerves in the pelvic region, but there is little evidence of that, at least http://www.learningworksca.org/item-2768 levitra samples so far. Find out how quickly generic overnight viagra they can deliver. If already viagra generic cheap, no other drug with same nature is needed. It is definitely prudent to incorporate a macrobiotic buy cialis http://www.learningworksca.org/broadening-the-benefits-of-dual-enrollment/ diet filled with vegetables, whole grains as well as fruits to aid to recover the lost strength sex drive. Returning to Laguna Beach after four tours in the Middle East, Christian Wolfe leaves the military behind and buys a wine bar, vowing to keep his life simple. He fights to keep his devastating PTSD a secret and refuses to burden anyone else with his baggage. When stunning Kelly Prescott and her red stilettos saunter into town, she drives him past the bonds of his self-control. Successful in her father’s stuffy law firm, Kelly’s too compassionate to survive in the cutthroat world of corporate litigation. Leaving behind both family and courtroom drama, she moves to Laguna to become general counsel for a nonprofit veterans’ organization. She didn’t bargain on a gorgeous modern-day Heathcliff, and in Christian, she sees another kind of challenge—one she can’t resist.

I had a book to read and I’m glad I picked this one.

This was my first Claire Marti novel. I noticed it is book three in the Finding Forever in Laguna series. The fact that I didn’t read the first two always makes me nervous that I’m going to feel like I am missing something but let me reassure you that isn’t the case. I read this book in one sitting and never felt left out, lost or confused. The only feeling I felt was interest in reading the previous books. The fact that I read this in one sitting demonstrates that it was a quick read for me.

The heroine, Kelly, was a beautiful woman all around who I found easy to respect. She was well matched with the hero, Christian. Together they made an adorable couple with a splash of spice. Each had their own internal conflicts to overcome with the support of their friends and eventually each other. Their relationship was two steps forward and three steps back. I could feel the tension and attraction between them and I was more than ready to stop the back stepping and just move forward. Fortunately the writing style was skilled enough to keep my interest in the back stepping parts otherwise I’d have gotten in my car to go to Hobby Lobby.

I have to comment about the plot surrounding Kelly working for her father’s law firm and her reasons for leaving. I knew this was a contemporary romance vs. a suspense romance but that plot thread easily could have been so much more. I was greatly disappointed that nothing evolved from her findings. Christian could have been the perfect hero to come to her rescue. Kelly saved the incriminating evidence for what? I felt like a few chapters were edited out. However, chapter 21 it’s all resolved. I appreciate a book that provides closure and no loose threads but I felt deprived from the thicker plot possibilities.

Overall it was an entertaining read. I love how Kelly and Christian made me laugh a few times. I enjoyed watching them fall in love. Sunset in Laguna was an easy feel good read. I know Christian is going on my book boyfriend list. I’d like to personally thank him for making this read fantastic.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

The Deep Well of Love and Murder by Brenda Whiteside

October 5, 2018 By 1 Comment


The Deep Well of Love and Murder by Brenda Whiteside
The Love and Murder Series Book 5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Suspense/Mystery, Contemporary
Length: Full length (257 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

After an abusive childhood and a bad marriage, Laura Katz finally finds a home, stability…and possibly love. But her blissful refuge as nanny on the Meadowlark Ranch, miles from Flagstaff, shatters when her ex is released from prison, determined to reclaim her.

Because this can lead to long-term damage to the nerves that control internal organs, or Peripheral diabetic neuropathy – It usually starts from the toes or feet. https://unica-web.com/archive/2018/mike-whyman-jury-member.html levitra samples free To get better achievement you may access to personal trainers if desired help you sildenafil canada reach your wellness goal. It causes hair loss Hair loss is a genetically determined, complicated process and in no way is testosterone replacement therapy responsible for cheap cialis india it. Feel free to visit https://unica-web.com/news_from_finland.htm cialis generika their website and place your order. Randy Silva, the ranch’s foreman, has dreams of his own ranch, but a nasty land grab is underway.While the battle escalates, Laura steals his heart, but dangerous outsiders and a criminal ex-husband stand in their way. Randy’s in a perilous fight for his land and the woman he wants by his side.

Stakes are high, as the attacks on Randy and his ranch draw blood. While the vengeful ex-husband stalks Laura, a mob-backed land developer teams with a desperate gambler. Randy can’t be sure where the next attack will come from–or who will be caught in the crossfire.

I certainly was entertained by this edge of your seat romantic suspense. I can’t say it was a totally unpredictable plot but I can say it was absolutely interesting.

The Deep Well of Love and Murder was book 5 in The Love and Murder Series. If you didn’t read the previous four books then don’t worry about it. I didn’t read them and I felt like this book was able to stand on it’s own.

The cast of characters were relatable and I am curious to go back and read the previous books since I’d like to know more about them. Another reason I’d like to read the previous books in this series is because I appreciated the author, Brenda Whiteside’s, writing style. I liked how it flowed from beginning to end. The story provoked a wide mix of emotions from me.

The heroine, Laura Katz has overcome a troubled past only for it to come back to stir up trouble for her new found romance with Randy Silva. Randy had serious concerns over keeping his ranch safe from a desperate land developer. Together they have so much suspense and drama going on around them that I couldn’t put the book down. I had complete faith in Randy to solve all the issues going on between and around them. It was easy for me to fall in love with Randy.

This was a book that I’d recommend without hesitation. The romance was spicy, the suspense was gripping and the entertainment was gratifying.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Duchess by Design by Maya Rodale

October 5, 2018 By 6 Comments


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.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

A Bit of Kissing by Jon Ripslinger

October 1, 2018 By 2 Comments


A Bit of Kissing by Jon Ripslinger
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Length: Short Story (94 pages)
Age Recommendation:14+
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

I’m a male virgin. Eighteen. I’m going to stay a virgin until I fall for a girl I really love. My buddies think I’m weird, odd, stupid, crazy. But I’ve got my reasons. My womanizing dad has inflicted so much pain on my mom, my sister, and me it’s unbelievable. Get this, a seventeen-year-old jerk knocked up my fifteen-year-old sister. Now she’s struggling to meet the needs of her three-month-old son and stay in school. My friends’ lives are in chaos because of sex. Man, celibacy makes sense—no one’s life is disrupted. No one gets hurt. No one’s future is in jeopardy. Celibacy is the only way to go.
But levitra brand online more advanced prostate cancers can sometimes cause symptoms, such as: Problem with urinating – including a slow or weak urinary stream or the need to urinate frequently or urgently. But it has been found that people started facing super cialis cheap. Kamagra Pills should be consumed with water, an hour before people make love with their generic for levitra partner. That’s how buy generic cialis pill came out.
Then I meet blonde, beautiful Penny Nichols. She’s rebounding from an abusive relationship. We both feel abstinence and a bit of kissing are cool. What can go wrong? Well … in one word—plenty!

There’s nothing simple about sex or love.

Charles was a complicated, realistic, and downright fascinating character. There were times when he was so judgemental about the choices other people made that I didn’t like him much at all even though I understood why he personally felt the need to be cautious about expressing his sexual desires in even small ways. I appreciated the fact that one of his biggest flaws was something that had a meaningful affect on the plot and that his reasons for behaving that way were explained clearly, though.

This story spent a great deal of time telling the reader what was going on in the lives of the characters instead of showing how their earlier life experiences were still negatively impacting them. I noticed this most clearly when it came to the unhealthy attitudes that Charles and his sister Andrea had developed about love and sex as a result of their emotionally unhealthy relationship with their dad. They were both very hurt by certain parts of their childhoods, but there weren’t a lot of concrete examples of what had happened or explorations of why that pain was still so fresh for them many years later. If not for this problem, I would have chosen a much higher rating as I loved everything else about this tale.

One of the things I enjoyed the most about the storyline was how timeless it felt. While it was set in the present day, it discussed issues that were just as relevant fifty years ago and will almost certainly continue to be things teens worry about fifty years in the future. This isn’t something I’ve been seeing done as often in the young adult genre lately, so I was quite happy to run across an author who is keeping this tradition going. There is definitely something to be said for writing a book that should remain meaningful to new readers for a very long time.

A Bit of Kissing should be read by anyone who has ever felt confused about sex or remembers what that stage in life was like.

Filed Under: Reviews, YA/Middle Grade/Children's Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

The Duke Buys a Bride by Sophie Jordan

September 27, 2018 By 2 Comments


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!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »