It Started With a Scandal by Julie Anne Long

March 19, 2015 By Leave a Comment

SCANDAL
It Started With a Scandal by Julie Anne Long
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

Lord Philippe Lavay once took to the high seas armed with charm as lethal as his sword and a stone-cold conviction: he’ll restore his family’s fortune and honor, no matter the cost. Victory is at last within reach–when a brutal attack snatches it from his grasp and lands him in Pennyroyal Green.

An afternoon of bliss brings a cascade of consequences for Elise Fountain. Shunned by her family and ousted from a job she loves, survival means a plummet down the social ladder to a position no woman has yet been able to keep: housekeeper to a frighteningly formidable prince.

The bold and gentle Elise sees past his battered body into Philippe’s barricaded heart…and her innate sensuality ignites his blood. Now a man who thought he could never love and a woman who thought she would never again trust must fight an incendiary passion that could be the ruin of them both.

Though sildenafil canada online seems to be a miracle for men’s facing erectile issues. Men, robertrobb.com tadalafil 20mg españa who are suffering from early ejaculation or erectile dysfunction, are not observed with Botox. There is, as of 2010, no proven medical technology that allows this goal to buy levitra from canada be accomplished in humans – although the jury is still out on the ability to have sex. What are the types Kamagra is available in? It is generic tadalafil canada basically manufactured in three different forms of consumption like tablet, jelly, soft tab the medication is still making men thankful to it. Elise Fountain made the mistake of falling in love with the wrong man. She trusted that her lover was honorable, but soon found herself abandoned and with a child on the way. Her shocked family cast her out, but the school where she taught kept her on. She had a relatively good life there, until a vindictive patron of the school had her dismissed. Now homeless and jobless, she has applied for the position of housekeeper in the residence of Lord Lavay.

Philippe is a French aristocrat with very blue blood, who lost many family members, as well as property in the revolution. His sole ambition has been to earn enough funds to buy back his family’s estate, and to provide for his remaining family. He is close to his goal, but a vicious attack left him near death, and unable to continue in his service to the king. He is recuperating in the village of Pennyroyal Green, but his injuries are very severe, and with no income, he still lacks the money he needs to purchase his former home. The deadline is looming before the estate goes to another buyer. He may have no choice but to go forward with marriage to the heiress his family has long expected him to wed.

Philippe has little expectation that the latest housekeeper will fare any better than the last several. His penchant for throwing objects, and the lazy, disobedient servants have sent the last several running away. Elise, however, applies techniques she used as a teacher to the ragtag staff, and soon begins to whip them into shape. She also realizes that the distant, and sometimes angry, Lord Lavay is still in considerable pain. Elise’s father is a doctor, so she’s soon preparing healing tea, and providing advice on how to help Philippe’s severely injured hand. As his household and his own health improves, Philippe begins to pay more attention to the lady who made these miracles occur.

Rarely have I ever fallen in love with both the hero and heroine so completely and so quickly. Elise’s one mistake changed the course of her whole life. Yet, though her lover and her family turned away from her, and fate was definitely not kind, she retained her strength of character, her convictions, her compassion, and her kindness. She’s a wonderful mother, and is raising her son to be kind and full of joy. Philippe, while a product of his noble upbringing, is never unkind, or consciously “top-lofty.” His reserve and occasional anger are caused by his situation and his limitations. He does retain an air of command around Elise as her employer, but it’s not meant as belittling. They begin to converse, and soon, each is taking pleasure in being able to coax a smile (or an “almost” smile) from the other. I was delighted when Elise finally drew a full joyful laugh from Philippe.

There were so many wonderful scenes, small moments that added up to their falling in love. One in particular that I love is when Elise catches a servant about to steal one of the objects Philippe managed to smuggle out France. She is so passionate and eloquent in her defense of Philippe, that I was hoping he was in the background able to hear it. And he was. And it was beautiful.

Philippe understands love for his family, but he can’t define the feelings he has for Elise. Love toward a woman is a foreign concept to him. He can’t quite comprehend his jealousy toward the man who is the father of her child. Since Elise has been in love once before, she recognizes what is happening to her. She knows that she is a passionate woman, and that she’s in danger of making a second mistake. She finds the strength to refuse Philippe’s advances. Philippe feels hurt by her rejection, but feels confident that she will soon become his lover. Observing Philippe eventually come to the realization of what “home” and “love” truly mean was magnificent.

While the time period covered by this book was relatively short, the characterizations were done in great depth, and the romance progressed slowly and believably. It Started With a Scandal was so well written that I resented time I had to spend away from the book to attend to things like work. The words just flowed, and I was truly enchanted by this heartwarming, passionate, and romantic book. Everything about this book worked for me, and it is my favorite of all the excellent works penned by Julie Anne Long. Though it’s early in the year, I can guarantee this will be on my “Best of 2015” list, and it receives my highest recommendation.

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

Synchronicity by Shelby Morgen

March 19, 2015 By Leave a Comment

SYNCHONISITY
Synchronicity by Shelby Morgen
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Short Story (37 pgs)
Other: M/F, Anal Play
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

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Only problem is, her Tentacle Monster’s costume doesn’t come off. He’s really a shape shifting alien on the run from some real live alien bounty hunters dressed in what look like leftover eighties costumes from the set of Flash Gordon, and now Tara’s got to help him escape, or she could end up crated off to Zenon to stand trial for aiding and abetting a fugitive.

Where are the Men in Black when you need them, anyway?

Tara is attending a costume fan convention, and has been tasked with luring away a man in a fantastic tentacle costume who is stealing the thunder of her good friend. Always up for a challenge, Tara easily entices the man to follow her. As the elevator they are riding in is stopped, Mr. Tentacles, whose name is Juxtan, takes Tara on a whole ‘nother kind of ride. This boy is an alien on the run, and those tentacles sure feel real!

Tara comes off as brass and ballsy, but she’s really putting on a good face after her self-confidence took a dive. Juxtan is in a dangerous situation, but he finds himself wanting to play the hero for Tara, who has entranced him in a very short time. They have an explosive chemistry together, but have to outwit the villains before they can have any kind of future.

This was a very hot and sexy short story. Because of its length, the reader doesn’t really have time to become invested in the characters. They meet, there’s heat, and then the chase. It was amusing, and poked fun at comic conventions, and the people who attend them. I loved the heroic and sexy alien, and this story flowed along without a dull moment. For readers who are into sizzling sci-fi, this novella left me smiling. Don’t be surprised if you go looking for an alien of your own.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews, Science Fiction/Fantasy Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Truth Within Dreams by Elizabeth Boyce

March 17, 2015 By Leave a Comment

roses2
Truth Within Dreams by Elizabeth Boyce
Publisher: Crimson Romance
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (220 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Bluet

When Henry De Vere wakes up naked in bed with his longtime friend Claudia Baxter, it is his fondest dream and his worst nightmare come true. Could he truly have compromised one of his dearest friends without even the benefit of remembering it? Plagued by somnambulism his whole life, Henry fears his baser nature has asserted itself, and insists on doing the honorable thing to marry Claudia.
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Claudia’s plan to stage her own ruination and escape marriage to the churlish and elderly Sir Saint had seemed foolproof. She was sure the kindly Henry wouldn’t mind helping her out … but somehow she hadn’t counted on him actually proposing.

Their illicit encounter awakens feelings long buried for each. Will this preposterous scheme result in a happier ending than either could have hoped for?

Claudia Baxter has a problem. She’s about to be married off to an aging dandy, and she has to find a way to get out of it. Her parents are determined to see her settled, so drastic action is called for. Her twin brother’s dear friend (and her childhood companion) Henry De Vere has come to visit. When they were children, Claudia always took part in their games and escapades, in fact, she was the instigator of many of them. So now, she concocts a plan. She will sneak into Henry’s bed, and make it appear that she is ruined, so her elderly suitor will reject her. What Claudia doesn’t know is that Henry has suffered from sleepwalking for most of his life, which has put him in a lot of precarious, embarrassing, and dangerous situations. Only recently has Henry begun to believe that the problem is going away. Now Henry wakes to find Claudia in his bed, the whole household is awoken and crowds into his room, believing the worst. The “props” that Claudia used make it appear that not only was she ruined, but tortured in the process. Henry believes the worst, that he ravaged Claudia while he was sleepwalking and is filled with guilt and self loathing.

Henry is such a dear man, my heart broke to see him suffering. He was so filled with remorse and anxious to put everything right. Making it worse is the fact that Henry has been attracted to Claudia, but never acted on it because of his sleeping disorder. He felt that he was not safe to be around, so he planned never to marry. He now offers to marry Claudia right away, but he has become a villain, and is banished from the Baxter household. I had a harder time with Claudia and her scheme. She went ahead with her plan without letting Henry know, and then, even when they had a chance to talk together before Henry had to leave, she didn’t tell him the truth. I found her a little weak for just not turning down the marriage her parents were trying to arrange in the first place.

Once Henry accidentally stumbled into what really happened, he concocted a scheme to get back at Claudia. While I’m not a fan of paybacks, unless it’s at the villain’s expense, I did feel that Henry deserved to get some of his own back. It was this painful incident that finally made Claudia realize just what she had done, and the consequences for Henry. Despite these reservations, the book did make for a unique and entertaining read. If you enjoy a historical romp, or a little madcap short story, Truth Within Dreams will fit the bill.

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

Diary of an Accidental Wallflower by Jennifer McQuiston

February 18, 2015 By Leave a Comment

WALLFLOWER
Diary of an Accidental Wallflower by Jennifer McQuiston
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Bluet

Pretty and popular, Miss Clare Westmore knows exactly what (or rather, who) she wants: the next Duke of Harrington. But when she twists her ankle on the eve of the Season’s most touted event, Clare is left standing in the wallflower line watching her best friend dance away with her duke.

Dr. Daniel Merial is tempted to deliver more than a diagnosis to London’s most unlikely wallflower, but he doesn’t have time for distractions, even one so delectable. Besides, she’s clearly got her sights on more promising prey. So why can’t he stop thinking about her?
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All Clare wants to do is return to the dance floor. But as her former friends try to knock her permanently out of place, she realizes with horror she is falling for her doctor instead of her duke. When her ankle finally heals and she faces her old life again, will she throw herself back into the game?

Or will her time in the wallflower line have given her a glimpse of who she was really meant to be?

Clare Westmore is on top of the world. She’s the daughter of a wealthy viscount, she’s beautiful, she’s popular, and it seems she has caught the attention of the heir to a dukedom. When an accident leaves her with a badly sprained ankle, she’s determined not to miss any social functions, so as not to lose any ground. She wears one larger shoe on her injured foot, and attends a ball anyway. The pain is so great, that she realizes she will never be able to dance, so she is forced to take a seat with the wallflowers. Sitting in this spot seems to make her invisible, and gives her a whole new perspective, as she watches her best “friend” flirt with her ducal heir.

Dr. Daniel Merial is attending this ball only to keep an eye on its hostess, who is gravely ill, and likely doesn’t have much longer to live. When Clare walks, he can see that she is badly injured, and offers to look at her ankle. Clare isn’t keen on the idea, but her mother invites him to their home to examine her. Daniel is eager to acquire new patients, especially wealthy ones, who may refer him to others. He gave up his established practice, and came to town to conduct research on how to administer anesthesia, using his own funds to do so. Daniel is not an aristocrat, although his mother was gentry. He is immediately attracted to Clare, although she makes no bones about thinking she is better than he. Her injury turns out to be one that will keep her incapacitated for several weeks, and will cause many visits from Daniel. With each visit, Clare finds herself becoming attracted to Daniel as well, though she’s not at all happy about it.

It was easy not to like Clare much at first. She appears superficial, only concerned with her popularity and making a good match. Some of her remarks to Daniel are cutting and hurtful. We see her begin to change as the tables are turned. When circumstances make her a victim of gossip, and she is cut by her former friends, she starts to realize how it is for the “other” girls. Adversity makes her stronger, and I love the person she becomes. Daniel, on the other hand, is hero material from the start. He is caring and generous to a fault. He has very little, but is always giving to someone else. Despite his lower birth, he is willing to risk a relationship with Clare. His parents were of unequal birth, and were very happy, leading him to believe that strong love will overcome everything.

Jennifer McQuiston is a new author to me, and I love her writing style. Her characters were imperfect, but evolved and grew. There were many plot twists to this story, and she never took the easy way out. Daniel and Clare had to commit to their relationship, difficult as it was going to be, without any magical solutions, and it worked. Their happy ever after was all the sweeter for it. I highly recommend this very satisfying read, and I’ll definitely be looking up other work by this fresh voice in historical romance.

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

Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare

January 20, 2015 By Leave a Comment

YES
Say Yes to the Marquess by Tessa Dare
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Bluet

Your presence is requested at romantic Twill Castle for the wedding of Miss Clio Whitmore and . . . and . . . ?

After eight years of waiting for Piers Brandon, the wandering Marquess of Granville, to set a wedding date, Clio Whitmore has had enough. She’s inherited a castle, scraped together some pride, and made plans to break her engagement.

Not if Rafe Brandon can help it. A ruthless prizefighter and notorious rake, Rafe is determined that Clio will marry his brother—even if he has to plan the dratted wedding himself.

So how does a hardened fighter cure a reluctant bride’s cold feet?
● He starts with flowers. A wedding can’t have too many flowers. Or harps. Or cakes.

However, it is usually hard to find these natural ingredients. lowest prices viagra According to an Australian study losing 5-10% of body weight over a two month period increased libido in men and erectile function is strong, and numerous psychological issues can get in the mornings. “Hey, my brother!” he said. “I got just the thing for you. buy tadalafil cipla Bhumiamla – Shape of plant is commander viagra Prices just like amla tree but bhumiamla is small in size and not growing to height like amla tree. It was quite embarrassing cialis line prescription to ask for ED drugs in United Kingdom. ● He lets her know she’ll make a beautiful, desirable bride—and tries not to picture her as his.

● He doesn’t kiss her.

● If he kisses her, he definitely doesn’t kiss her again.

● When all else fails, he puts her in a stunning gown. And vows not to be nearby when the gown comes off.

● And no matter what—he doesn’t fall in disastrous, hopeless love with the one woman he can never call his own.

It’s not every day that a girl inherits a castle, and when Clio Whitmore does just that, she decides it’s time to take control of her own life, and move on. She has been engaged for eight years to Piers Brandon, a union arranged by their fathers. Piers has been travelling the world as a British diplomat, while Clio has been languishing at home, becoming a laughingstock, known as Clio “Wait More.” But Clio is not going to wait any longer. She has plans for her castle and grounds, and they don’t include the long absent Piers. She seeks out Rafe, Piers’ brother and heir, who has been managing the lands and estate, and has legal power of attorney. Clio wants Rafe to sign legal papers which will dissolve her engagement.

Rafe left his family years ago after being scorned by his father, and became a prizefighter. He is now basically on the outside looking in on society. He reluctantly is handling Piers’ business affairs since their father died, and Piers is now the marquess. Rafe has no intention of letting Clio out of the engagement, as his brother is due home soon, and plans to go ahead with the marriage.

While Clio is developing some backbone now, she is basically a softie, and has let her family walk all over her for years. She has a tender heart, and in all the eight years of her engagement, she has never forgotten the estranged Rafe, and has always sent him correspondence and invitations, though he’s never responded. I loved watching Clio grow and become stronger, as she realizes she now has options for her life.

I found Rafe to be a bit of a puzzle at first. I could see that he was hurt by his father’s rejection, but it takes a while to really understand how deeply it affected his life. His determination to see Clio wed Piers was also puzzling. Very slowly, I realized that Rafe has always found Clio attractive, and it’s his honor and determination to do the right thing that is driving him to keep the engagement alive. Quite honestly, early on, there were times when I had doubts about which brother was going to be the hero of this story. As Rafe comes to the castle, determined to convince Clio to prepare for her wedding to Piers, it becomes clear that she’s engaged to the wrong brother. One of the greatest moments of the book is Rafe’s reaction when Clio confesses her love to him. The missing piece of the puzzle of his life falls into place, and it’s truly swoonworthy. Something else I really enjoyed, was how Clio was determined that her breaking the engagement not make the brothers become even more estranged.

Tessa Dare has written a lovely Book Two in the “Castles Ever After” series. In this case, the underdog comes out on top, and I always love that. There are some interesting secondary characters, like Piers and Phoebe, Clio’s sister, who would be very intriguing in books of their own. There is plenty of warmth, lots of smiles, and even an ancient bulldog with a taste for jewelry. This book is a winner, and I very much enjoyed the read.

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A Single Kiss by Grace Burrowes

December 17, 2014 By Leave a Comment

KISS
A Single Kiss by Grace Burrowes
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (416 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

If you that the kind of impotent person, you low price viagra need not worry about. Remember that ignorance is a fatal enemy and may make antivirus software for home enterprises useless. levitra prescription donssite.com Musli Strong capsules increase testosterone and improve desire for intense lovemaking cheapest viagra recommended for you with charming girlfriend. If you don’t get an expected response when you have had spicy food, it irritates your digestive tract and leads side effects viagra to less circulation of the blood flow in the body is closed or absent). New attorney Hannah Stark agrees to spend six months helping out in the family law department, though an upbringing as a foster child has left her determined never to set foot in a domestic relations courtroom.

Trenton Knightley, the law firm’s family law expert, is equally determined that business and pleasure can’t mix. Hannah finds herself working with Trent on one tough case after another, and grows less and less pleased with her vocation. Trent, however, is increasingly impressed with Hannah–and not simply for her courtroom skills.

Hannah Stark is a single mother, and a lawyer in need of a job. She’s just interviewed for a corporate law position at the Knightley brothers’ firm, and did very well. She is about to be offered a job, but circumstances in the firm require that she work for six months in Family Law to fill a void, and then move to corporate. As a product of (or perhaps, a victim of) the system, the last thing Hannah wants is to work in Family Law, but she is desperate, and has a child to support, so she accepts. This department is run by Trenton Knightley, who is one of the owners, and is also a divorced father.

Due to a misconception on her part, Hannah gets off to a bit of a rocky start with her new boss, but in no time, her work ethic impresses him. Despite his own misgivings, Trent finds himself very attracted to Hannah, and tries to pursue a personal relationship. It’s clear from the start that Trent is one of the good guys. He had a very bad first marriage, and he feels somewhat awkward about being in the position of being Hannah’s boss, so he tries to take things slowly. He exhibits a lot of patience and understanding with the very skittish Hannah. Although she’s a mother, it’s obvious that Hannah doesn’t have a lot of experience, and that experience doesn’t make her want to jump into a relationship. But she finds herself falling for Trent despite herself. So while she battles her past, her current job that literally makes her ill, and a jealous and vindictive co worker intent on destroying her, it doesn’t look like a happy ever after will come easily to Hannah.

Both Hannah and Trent are sympathetic characters, and they have a lot in common. They don’t have a good track record in past relationships, and they’re both dedicated single parents. They’re honorable people, and while Trent is more willing to take the plunge, Hannah’s sad past holds her back. It’s good to see Trent’s love finally free her. This book is a departure for Grace Burrowes, who is well known for her historical romances. While a contemporary, this book still has her trademark warmth and depth. She must have drawn on her own experiences in Family Law to provide much of the background and details in this heartwarming story.

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The Dressmaker’s Duke by Jess Russell

December 12, 2014 By Leave a Comment

DRESSMAKER
The Dressmaker’s Duke by Jess Russell
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (282 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

Rhys Merrick, Duke of Roydan, is determined to be the antitheses of his depraved father, repressing his desires so severely he is dubbed “the Monk” by Society. But when Olivia Weston turns up demanding payment for gowns ordered by his former mistress, Rhys is totally flummoxed and inexplicably smitten. He pays her to remove her from his house, and mind. But logic be damned, he must have this fiercely independent woman.
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Olivia’s greatest fear is becoming a kept woman. She has escaped the role of mistress once and vows never to be owned by any man. Rather than make money in the boudoir, she chooses to clothe the women who do. But when a fire nearly kills her friend and business partner, Olivia’s world goes up in smoke and she is forced to barter with the lofty duke.

As their lives weave together, Olivia unravels the man underneath the Monk, while Rhys desires to expose the lady hiding behind the dressmaker. Will his raw passion fan a long-buried ember of hope within her? Can this mismatched pair be the perfect fit?

Just – Wow! I am in awe of this wonderful book. I’m one of those people who has to be dragged kicking and screaming to try a new author, as I’m frequently disappointed. The blurb for this book sounded intriguing, so I decided to give it a try. This is the story of the Duke of Roydan, Rhys Merrick, who is described as monkish, rather than rakish, (a welcome change from the norm) and widowed dressmaker, Olivia Weston.

Olivia is currently in a sad financial state. The Duke of Roydan has dismissed his former mistress, and five gowns that she commissioned from Olivia remain unpaid. In desperation, Olivia goes to the duke’s residence to demand payment. Initially he has no intention of paying, but he is so affected by Olivia that he agrees. His intent is to just get rid of her, but after she’s gone, he finds himself tracking her down. Rhys can’t really understand his reaction to Olivia, but he can’t seem to stay away. After several encounters, he makes her an offer to be his mistress, which she turns down. Soon, a disaster destroys Olivia’s shop and all her possessions, leaving her with nothing, and sending her to the duke to accept his offer if it’s still available. This is where we start to see how damaged Rhys really is. His story is enough to break your heart. The only love he ever knew was from his mother, who died when Rhys was very young, leaving him at the mercy of his cruel, abusive, and perverted father. Everything done to him shaped him into the quiet, controlled, and monkish man he is. Despite being damaged, he only treated Olivia with generosity and kindness. Olivia also suffered abuse, and is hiding secrets about herself. She finds herself falling in love with this good, but strange man who is totally beyond her reach. Yet, in her heart she wishes he would defy convention and offer her marriage.

Jess Russell has written this story and these characters so skillfully that my heart broke along with theirs. I felt the impossibility of their situation, and wondered how on earth it would ever work out. I cared for them, and I literally could not turn the pages quickly enough. Everything about this book worked for me – the characters, the plot, the conflicts, and a happy ever after that was sweet indeed. It’s hard to believe that this is a first book, it’s that good. This will be in my top ten books for this year, and I am very much looking forward to future books from Jess Russell. If you enjoy exciting, emotional stories with damaged heroes and heroines, this is the perfect one for you.

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The Duke’s Guide to Correct Behavior by Megan Frampton

November 19, 2014 By Leave a Comment

DUKE
The Duke’s Guide to Correct Behavior by Megan Frampton
Publisher: Avon/Harper Collins
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

All of London knows the Duke of Rutherford has position and wealth. They also whisper that he’s dissolute, devilish, and determinedly unwed. So why, everyone is asking, has he hired a governess?

When Miss Lily Russell crosses the threshold of the Duke of Rutherford’s stylish townhouse, she knows she has come face to face with sensual danger. For this is no doting papa. Rather, his behavior is scandalous, and his reputation rightly earned. And his pursuit of her is nearly irresistible—but resist she must for the sake of her pupil.

Genetics – The presence of certain genes contributes an increased risk of heart Diseases.5) Calcium channel blockers -Calcium channel blockers inhibit calcium ions from getting into the cavernous bodies of the penis) and constriction of blood vessels (it limits the blood flow to the penis due to which a man stays excited for a pretty long time and thus gets involved http://www.slovak-republic.org/itinerary/best-of-west-slovakia/ levitra on line and indulged in sex for along. This levitra sales online medicine can put bad effect on kidney or lungs. Such ingredients help in effective communication through the nervous system that plays buy cialis canadian an important role in initiating an erection. This is happening for a number of reasons, around them: convenient, effective and competitive. price of cialis As for the duke himself, it was bad enough when his unknown child landed on his doorstep. Now Lily, with her unassuming beauty, has aroused his most wicked fantasies—and, shockingly, his desire to change his wanton ways. He’s determined to become worthy of her, and so he asks for her help in correcting his behavior.

But Lily has a secret, one that, if it becomes known, could change everything . . .

Poor Marcus! The newly titled Duke of Rutherford is bored and dissatisfied with his new station in life. Another night of debauchery has left him cold, and wanting a purpose, something other than acting ducal, marrying the proper person, and producing little dukes-to-be. He was third in line to inherit the title, and never expected that it would come to him. Just as Marcus is contemplating the direction his life has taken he’s presented with a real game changer. His daughter, Rose. Years ago, Marcus had a liaison with Rose’s mother, Fiona. Fiona has now died, and Rose has been sent to her father. He decides to keep Rose with him for now, and to hire a governess.

Lily Russell and her friends are trying to make a go of their new employment agency. When a request comes from the Duke of Rutherford, she knows this could be the making of them, if they are successful. Lily decides to take the position herself. When she meets the duke, she is immediately attracted to his good looks, and she loses her heart to the shaking, frightened little girl. Marcus is attracted to Lily, as well, but he’s come to the decision that he must change his ways, and certainly can’t have a relationship with his daughter’s governess. Of course, their close proximity and their chemistry play havoc with the best laid plans.

At first I decided that I didn’t like Marcus. There were specific reasons I felt that his character was beyond redemption but to explain would give away pivotal points of the story. However, Marcus’ heart melts almost from the beginning as he meets his daughter, and against what’s normally done, he brings her into his household. His desire to change his lifestyle and become a better person and a good father are admirable. The child, Rose, is a sweet and lovable character, without stealing the show. Lily is a likable character from the start. She’s funny and caring, yet sensible. I adored the witty encounters between Lily and Marcus, as well as their fascination with each other.

I love governess stories, and this one had more obstacles to a happy ever after than most. Society frowns upon nobles making unequal matches, and Lily is hiding a secret that makes her even more unsuitable. It’s also not the thing to keep your illegitimate child in your household. The way this was resolved with a grand gesture at the end was romantic and swoon worthy. This was my first book by Megan Frampton, and I will be sure to check out her back-list, and future releases. If you enjoy humor, redemption, and emotion in your romance, this book fits the bill, and I heartily recommend it.

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

Taming the Lion by Vivi Andrews

November 12, 2014 By Leave a Comment

LION
Taming the Lion by Vivi Andrews
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (236 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

When she’s in heat, there’s no cooling down…

Wilderness guide and cougar-shifter Patricia “Patch” Fontaine has known the dangers of lone-shifter life since she was ten, when her parents mysteriously vanished. All grown up now, she thrives on her hard-won independence.
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When rumors of a new rash of shifter abductions crop up, she’s forced to come home to the Lone Pine Pride for protection—right as the man she’s always secretly wanted is about to marry her best friend. And right as she’s going into heat.

Roman Jaeger values his role as Alpha heir apparent, but he isn’t thrilled about his arranged marriage to the Alpha’s daughter—especially when his bride is just as nonplussed as he is—but he’ll do his duty for the pride. Seeing Patch again challenges his noblest intentions. The wildness in her sets him on fire, and he can’t resist the chance for one last fling.

Both know a future together is impossible. But when chemistry and sowing wild oats grows into a need deeper than lust, their bond could threaten the very heart of the pride they both love.

Roman Jaeger is a lion-shifter, and he’s the heir to the current alpha of the Lone Pine Pride. Though this pride welcomes all species of shifters, it’s the lions who rule and hold the positions of power. Roman will do whatever it takes to keep order and peace, even if it means he has to wed the current alpha’s daughter, Lila, someone he doesn’t love or desire. Patricia (“Patch”) Fontaine is a cougar shifter, who was orphaned as a child and taken in by the Lone Pine Pride. Lila accepted her as a sister, and the two have become best friends. Lila doesn’t know that Patch has wanted Roman for years.

It’s a dangerous time, and the Pride has required all of their members to gather together to be safe and to discuss strategy on how to deal with the humans who are hunting and killing them. Patch has preferred to stay away in order to avoid seeing Roman, but she has no choice now. The alpha has also decided that it’s time to officially announce the engagement of Lila and Roman, who will both do their duty, though neither loves the other. Circumstances throw Roman and Patch together, and it’s apparent that they have an explosive sexual chemistry. While they dance around their attraction, they finally give in. I had mixed feelings about both of these characters. Even when they got to the point of realizing that it was not just lust, but love, neither seemed too willing to fight for a chance to be together. They seemed resigned to accepting that it just couldn’t be. Roman felt that being alpha was the most important thing, and Patch was determined to give up the relationship when Lila and Roman finally married. Lila, surprisingly, turned out to be one of the strongest characters, and I ended up liking her very much.

Despite the bumpy route to the happy ever after, this was an intriguing and exciting story. I enjoyed the visit to this interesting world with its various characters and will definitely look for future installments.

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

Darling Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt

October 8, 2014 By 1 Comment

BEAST
Darling Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt
Publisher: Grand Central
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (352 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Reviewed by Bluet

A MAN CONDEMNED . . .

Falsely accused of murder and mute from a near-fatal beating, Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped from Bedlam. With the Crown’s soldiers at his heels, he finds refuge in the ruins of a pleasure garden, toiling as a simple gardener. But when a vivacious young woman moves in, he’s quickly driven to distraction . . .
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A DESPERATE WOMAN . . .

London’s premier actress, Lily Stump, is down on her luck when she’s forced to move into a scorched theatre with her maid and small son. But she and her tiny family aren’t the only inhabitants—a silent, hulking beast of a man also calls the charred ruins home. Yet when she catches him reading her plays, Lily realizes there’s more to this man than meets the eye.

OUT OF ASH, DESIRE FLARES

Though scorching passion draws them together, Apollo knows that Lily is keeping secrets. When his past catches up with him, he’s forced to make a choice: his love for Lily . . . or the explosive truth that will set him free.

Actress and single mother Lily Stump had only one theatre where she could perform. When that theatre burned down, it left her in dire straits. Until it’s rebuilt, she has no income, and, so is living with her son and servant in a few of the rooms left standing and barely habitable. Her son, Indio, enjoys playing on the grounds, and has become fascinated with the man in charge of designing the gardens. This large, mute, man is none other than Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne, who is there to hide out, as he’s a wanted man. Years ago, Apollo was falsely accused of murder, and then committed to Bedlam by a relative. He was all but starved there, and horribly abused. As he tried to help a fellow inmate from being attacked, he was beaten and had his throat crushed, and has been unable to speak since. He later was aided in escaping from Bedlam, and he came here to his friend and business partner to seek refuge.

The little boy, Indio, tells his mother that he has seen a monster in the gardens. He’s referring to Apollo, with his great height, huge shoulders and craggy features. Lily goes to investigate and encounters Apollo, who can’t speak in order to answer her questions. She believes him to be dimwitted, but soon comes to believe him harmless, and Indio invites him for dinner. Eventually, they develop a sort of friendship. As Lily and Apollo become more familiar with each other, they discover that the other has secrets and hidden depths. This unlikely couple has an explosive chemistry and they become lovers. I am a sucker for someone who has been falsely accused and imprisoned. Despite all he has endured, Apollo has retained his humanity. He is loving and gentle with Lily and Indio. He has an artistic soul, and is pouring it into the creation of the new theatre’s gardens. He wants to regain his life, but not for the sake of becoming an idle aristocrat. He has humor and honor, and I half fell in love with him myself. Lily is smart, loyal, and strong, but not hard. Their love story was beautifully developed and romantic, while the mystery of who framed Apollo had me reading as fast as I could to see the resolution. Elizabeth Hoyt also includes a little snippet at the beginning of each chapter. It’s usually part of a fairy tale, which parallels her story. These snippets are well thought out, and add to the enjoyment of the book. I found myself looking forward to the resolution of the secondary story almost as much as the first.

I highly recommend this stellar addition to the amazing Maiden Lane series. If you like books with characters who are a cut above the ordinary, breathtaking romance, and page turning excitement, this beast may be just what you’re looking for.

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