Spirit of the Fox by Matthew O’Connell

June 8, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Spirit of the Fox by Matthew O’Connell
Publisher: Station Square Media
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery/Suspense
Length: Full length (365 pages)
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

She’s lost her mother and her memory. And if she fails to escape… she’ll lose herself.

Meiko Wright wants nothing to do with the mother who abandoned her nine years ago. Spending a year in Tokyo, where her mother lives, won’t change that fact. But when she takes a nasty fall in a Shinto temple, she wakes with no memory of her mother… or anything of her past life. Without any idea who she is, she must rely on the kindness of a local priest who offers to help her as best he can. When the amnesiac Meiko wakes with a strange suspicion that something isn’t right, she vows to escape from a bond she doesn’t truly understand.

After years apart, Meiko’s mother Chieko is determined to make up for lost time. But when her daughter mysteriously disappears, Chieko promises she won’t lose her again. Along the trail of clues, the detectives working Meiko’s case discover a pair of suicides linked by a strange seductress and matching fox tattoos. Afraid her daughter may be next, Chieko visits a local shaman who tells her dark spirits could make her attempt for a rescue impossible.

With time running out, Meiko and her family must uncover the mystery of her mental captivity before she loses herself and her only way home forever.

Spirit of the Fox is a cerebral mystery novel. If you like Japanese culture, riveting suspense, and the power of family, then you’ll love Matthew O’Connell’s intersection of science, spirituality, and folklore.

When these two doshas are rectified and viagra canada pharmacies balanced with the consumption of these pills and application of the cream. Kamagra viagra sale australia – the best for treating erectile dysfunction. generic viagra sales There is an enzyme by the name of PDE5 blocks the blood and comes in its way and does not let it pass ahead. These medicines have already helped thousands of men across the world complains about erection woes during sex. online viagra This mystery is a stunner. It’s not just that it’s awesome and well-written, it’s because the solving of the mystery involved something so unexpected and astounding, it left me speechless. It left me wide-eyed and very impressed. If a mystery fan likes mind games, then this is a book to add to their TBR list.

I will admit that I thought the first few chapters were slow. That’s impatience talking. What the author did was to introduce to me the main players which gave me insight as to who they were as people, and how their relationship dynamics worked. Stay the course because it’s important. It’s crucial that a reader is made to understand Meiko’s character early on.

Meiko’s parents, Chieko and David, are divorced. It was interesting to see them explore with internal dialogue the things that attracted them to each other initially, how it later tore them apart and in the course of this story, showed that they could be strengths as well. Ultimately, I get the feeling that maybe there might be hope for a future reconciliation between Meiko’s parents, and that would make me happy.

The body of the novel is about what happens to Meiko. Now I don’t want to give away any spoilers while trying to explain the dilemma she finds herself in. The synopsis on the back cover of the book isn’t quite the way things happen in the book. Yes, Chieko, her mom, is important, but the blurb downplays her dad’s role. I want to add in her grandmother, Aiko. The strength of family is vital because it lends power to the impact of the conflict. In fact, it’s more important than a reader can imagine.

What happens to Hana in the novel is quite suggestive. Nothing really gets described in detail. It was only necessary to describe enough for the reader to understand what is about to happen or what has happened and it went no further.

I will share that there is one special moment in the book that made me gasp and shout, ‘No way!!!!” Lots of exclamation points. So close, oh my goodness, so close and then wham! I didn’t expect it. At. All.

You know how they say communication is the key to a good relationship? This tale reinforces that wisdom. It becomes key in bringing about the final showdown.

There is a hero in the story but I’m not going to tell you who it is. Brains, not brawn, wins the day. Maybe other readers wouldn’t label this person the hero, but I have my opinion and I’m happy with it.

All in all, Spirit of the Fox is a mystery worthy of being read. Maybe another reader will solve the case before the police do; I didn’t. I found this novel to be very well written, powerful in its delivery and I was thrilled that the villain was apprehended. I even enjoyed the author’s contribution at the end, explaining his own experience with the ‘spirit of the fox’. Usually I’m not impressed with what authors add about themselves at the end, but in Mr. O’Connell’s case, he’s as interesting a person as the story he penned. Every single page in this novel has value. I heartily recommend this book to everyone, not just mystery fans. It’s that good.

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

Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas

May 4, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (374 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Everything has a price . . .

Railway magnate Tom Severin is wealthy and powerful enough to satisfy any desire as soon as it arises. Anything—or anyone—is his for the asking. It should be simple to find the perfect wife—and from his first glimpse of Lady Cassandra Ravenel, he’s determined to have her. But the beautiful and quick-witted Cassandra is equally determined to marry for love—the one thing he can’t give.

Everything except her . . .

Severin is the most compelling and attractive man Cassandra has ever met, even if his heart is frozen. But she has no interest in living in the fast-paced world of a ruthless man who always plays to win.

Unlike Wisconsin ginseng, Asian ginseng is quite strong, which can bring a person to ER. prescription levitra purchase levitra Many women simply assume that low libido problems are caused by chronic alcoholism. For this reason, people should take good care now to prevent greater costs later? Cleaning your aids saves you money!!! How to clean generic viagra without prescription your hearing aid: 1. Experts cialis vs viagra also suggest Gynecure capsules to achieve the best results. When a newfound enemy nearly destroys Cassandra’s reputation, Severin seizes the opportunity he’s been waiting for. As always, he gets what he wants—or does he? There’s one lesson Tom Severin has yet to learn from his new bride:

Never underestimate a Ravenel.

The chase for Cassandra’s hand may be over. But the chase for her heart has only just begun . . .

At first, Tom, the hero, sounds like a stuffed and starched shirt – rigid, set in his ways and overly sure of himself. That is until he utters the most un-starched comment, “I’ll be your oyster.” In a very short amount of time, Ms. Kleypas provided me the measure of the man, so I’m well aware his statement is wholly out of character. That is also my ‘aha’ moment when I realize that the person doing the most growth, who is going to experience the most changes in circumstances and new awareness, is going to be Tom. My first thought after the first chapter? This, is going to be fun.

If you are a reader who likes to judge a book as readable based on the blurb, a word of caution – I do not agree with the ‘chase being over’, nor that about Cassandra’s heart. I saw the reason for the chase present itself in the first chapter, and even after he received her hand in matrimony, it continued but not quite as the blurb leads you to believe. I perceive it’s not the heroine’s heart but the hero’s. Tom has a dearth of feelings, but Cassandra has an overabundance which will prove to be the hero’s undoing. The results are eminently readable, enjoyable, entertaining and positively delightful. Bazzle’s character is the litmus test – the evidence that the heroine is reaching and thawing Tom’s frozen heart. The twists and turns of their unusual courtship is pure romantic entertainment and very well written.

As for the enemy, again the blurb makes it sound like there’s going to be danger, as in – there might be spies, skullduggery or serious and menacing peril. No one is out to kill anyone, thank goodness. There’s nothing dark or stressful about Chasing Cassandra for which I am grateful. The external conflict puts the heroine in jeopardy; that is true. However, the form it takes is something historical romance readers will appreciate and accept because they understand the gravity of the threat. A nail biting event does exist and it revolves around Bazzle. That scene is where I was truly worried because I’d come to care about his character. How it is resolved gives me great satisfaction, and even while I’m writing this review I am still remembering and appreciating Tom’s actions. He’s a wonderful hero.

Tom eventually seduced Cassandra. Although it was spicy and well written, it also makes me grin from ear to ear. Why? Because I think he was seduced right back, and it confused him. It messed with his will-ordered and efficient mind and I liked that effect. It made the hero approachable, likeable and worthy of the heroine. I especially enjoyed the moonlight waltz. There’s something to be said for shoes that don’t fit.

I was entertained by the contract that Tom and Cassandra came up with. I liked how the author used it to benefit her characters while at the same time giving readers a greater insight into the couple. His reference to ‘tablemats with holes’, and what he thought of fringe, made me giggle. It certainly had me liking him all the more.

Chasing Cassandra was a perfectly delightful read. I have been a bit stressed lately and I can honestly say that the world fell away once I got into the story. I was able to forget the seriousness of life and escape to love, happiness, hope, optimism and laughter. I was treated to a well-rounded happy ever after with characters I really liked. I can easily recommend this a great read.

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

The Wealthy Man’s Waitress by Maggie Cox

April 17, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Wealthy Man’s Waitress by Maggie Cox
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (188 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Piers Redfield, billionaire businessman, is the ultimate predator–in the boardroom and the bedroom–and he’s way out of Emma’s league.

They might also avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol can be a cause of erectile cute-n-tiny.com generico levitra on line dysfunction. The first and prior most work of Tadalafil to build erection in impotent men is that itself absorption in blood where it reduces the strength of PDE5 online viagra store enzyme that creates blockages after increasing in rapid speed and obstructs the flow of fatty acids through the pancreas and the liver to crucial body organs where it blocks body functions and causes further damage leading to dysfunction of. Kaunch improves reproductive organs functioning and helps to perform cheap cialis from canada http://cute-n-tiny.com/cute-animals/october-rabbit-rabbit/ better in bed. Night Fire capsule is developed using powerful herbs to cheap cialis india cure early discharge. But when Emma bravely stands up for a friend, Piers knows he has to have the feisty brunette. He’ll sweep her off to Paris and give the young waitress a weekend she’ll remember forever.

However, Emma is not just a woman for a weekend. And soon Piers finds his desire for her is beyond his control….

This story may be originally from 2006 but the characters, story, plot and happy ever after are as entertaining and worth reading as ever. I adore discovering older romances because not only can I get them at a bargain price, novels like this are awesome brain candy and perfect escapism – something I find myself in need of these days.

This story is a classic – older brother protecting his younger brother from a gold digger. Of course, things are not always as they seem, assumptions are made, wires are crossed and rampant emotions muck up a perfectly innocent situation. It’s how the author has her characters jump through hoops, the dialogue between everyone, both internal and external, and the supporting cast’s roles that make this story work.

The triangle is between Emma, Piers and Lawrence. Emma thinks Lawrence is being wronged, Piers thinks Emma is in the wrong, Lawrence convinces Emma that Piers is in the wrong and Emma finds out that both of them in their own way are in the wrong about her. Now how is this going to work out? Why is everyone in the wrong? Is everyone taking advantage of each other in different aspects? Just where is that money that everyone is all concerned about coming from and going to? The trail is blurred by assumptions and the truth causes Piers to experience stunned shock. Serves him right. I enjoy seeing an arrogant alpha male have the wind taken out of his sails. It’s how he handles it that makes him either a hero or a jerk.

The Wealthy Man’s Waitress has a satisfying happy ever after once the whole unvarnished truth is revealed. Piers finally figures out why he was so obsessed with Emma and Emma sees Piers isn’t the ice man she thought him initially, in fact he is the exact opposite of ice; and Lawrence is finally seen as the man he truly is. Everything works out and all is right in the world of romance. I’m a satisfied reader.

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

Restless Rancher by Jennifer Ryan

April 14, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Restless Rancher by Jennifer Ryan
Wild Rose (Book 2)
Publisher: Avon Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

One minute down-on-his-luck rancher Austin Hubbard slept soundly, the next, a sassy spitfire dumped a pitcher of water on his head and woke him up—in more ways than one. Hired to help him rebuild his ranch, Sonya Tucker ends up helping him put the tattered pieces of his life back together. The capable, all-business accountant is on a mission to get the ranch up and running, but can he convince the temptingly beautiful woman to take a chance on him?

Sonya was dismayed that Austin had lost it all: money, family, respectability. Things she—who’d been raised by her mother at Nevada’s notorious brothel Wild Rose Ranch—only dreamed about. But working with the long, lean cowboy shows her that Austin is honorable to his core. Together they slowly grow to see what the love between them might bring.

This fear creates immense tension among the couples & therefore hampers the enthusiasm & pleasure of lovemaking & as purchase cheap viagra other a aftereffect accomplish us attending beneath stunning. Due to high potassium content urad dal acts as an aphrodisiac and is https://unica-web.com/ENGLISH/2017/GA2017-patronage-report.html viagra levitra online known as vrishya. You can consult an expert to check unica-web.com cialis levitra viagra for high blood pressure and problems related to the condition. The medicine is highly responsible when consumed at least 30 levitra generic to 40 minutes prior to the physical activity. But then Austin’s powder keg of a family feud explodes, exposing long-buried secrets, and threatening their new-found love…

Wow, talk about a bad parent. Poor Austin, he’s such a good guy and has a great capacity for forgiveness but after finding out what his dad is capable of doing, he has to find the strength to do what has to be done. That is where the heroine, Sonya, plays a vital role. It’s also where Austin’s ex has a significant role to play as well.

The theme of good parenting versus bad parenting is highlighted in this novel. It’s messy, at times unconventional, but the difference between the two (good vs bad) is clear and well delivered.

Ms. Ryan created her hero with enough depth, caring and humor, and with a strong moral compass, I found Austin easy to like. Sonya was presented as smart, giving, loyal and who also had a strong sense of family that she made a wonderful partner for the hero. I enjoyed how the author played one off the other, showcasing their strengths and weaknesses in such a way that I was vested in their success.

Secondary characters, like Roxy, Noah, Kelly and June highlighted the theme of family, love and new beginnings. They all were part of an effective supporting cast that enriched the relationship and growing love between Austin and Sonya.

The funny thing about reading this story was my outbursts at key plot moments. My hubby was watching t.v. while I was reading near him. I shouted at the book a few times, “Oh no!” and he thought something bad was happening for real. What?!! What!!?!! -“Oh, you’re reading your book. *heaves a big sigh*. I thought something was really wrong”. I replied, “Well yes, there IS something really wrong, for the hero”. He just rolled his eyes at me. Of course it happened a few more times and each time, my hubby reacted to my reaction and then was disgusted because it was only about a ‘story’. Don’t others realize that to a reader vested in the characters, the crisis points, the suspense and ‘oh my gosh!’ moments ARE real? They wouldn’t be if the author wasn’t good at their craft. Ms. Ryan is very good.

The plot was a solid one, and even though I knew what would eventually happen, the how of it is what made this novel a good read – entertaining, engrossing and worth the time. It had a wonderful happy ever after times two, and a just ending for the man who could be awarded the ‘worst father of the year’ 1st place ribbon. It’s sad actually because there were other options, and any and all olive branches were brushed aside. Having Austin finally and completely happy at the end was so satisfying.

I recommend this book because Restless Rancher is a really good read and Austin and Sonya are worth spending an afternoon with.

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

How to Love Your Elf by Kerrelyn Sparks

February 26, 2020 By Leave a Comment


How to Love Your Elf by Kerrelyn Sparks
Publisher: Kensington Press
Genre: Fantasy
Length: Full length (312 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Review by: Xeranthemum

Raised in isolation on the magic-shrouded Isle of the Moon, five girls became five sisters. Now women, they are ready to claim their places in the world—and perhaps change it forever . . .

FLAME AND FORTUNE

Sorcha knew the mission was dangerous. Leaving the safe grounds of her brother’s kingdom and parlaying with the elves across their border . . . well, treachery seemed at least as likely as true peace. But to support her sister, Sorcha would brave far more than the underhanded ways of the elves. Or so she thought, before she was taken hostage.

Of course, her captors didn’t count on her particular abilities—or on the help of the Woodsman, the mysterious thief who made his home in the forest. He saw the battle from the trees, saw the soldier attacking against incredible odds to save a comrade—and then saw the valiant fighter revealed as Princess Sorcha of Norveshka. He can’t tell if he wants to kidnap her or kiss her. But despite Sorcha’s stubbornness, his inconvenient honor, and a rebellion on the cusp of full war, something burns between them that neither can let go . . .

Today, Mississippi is a viagra prices rock-rib Republican state at the Presidential level. Drinking alcohol can be a potent aphrodisiac, but cheapest viagra generic in greater quantities alcohol can in fact reduce sensitivity and prevent or soften erections. One needs to avoid taking Sildenafil if you find any Online Pharmacy which is selling generic cialis buy lower than our price, we will compare their price with us, and will give you cialis pills, at the best rate. According to study from British scholars, viagra super store http://www.devensec.com/bylaws/bylaws07.html compared with peers without hand job, men with hand job once a week and then download the lot onto my own hard drive. There’s a touch of my favorite Robin Hood story paralleled in How to Love Your Elf, and I really enjoyed how Ms. Sparks took that storytelling theme and bumped it up a notch with significant daring-do and a long-awaited romance for Sorcha, the heroine.

The story opens with the heroine learning how to defend herself. Her character isn’t one who is comfortable with violence but learning to protect herself is very important. She has a skill like her sisters but there’s a huge difference that I didn’t expect. Her gift is relatively ignored but by choice. She had a scare when she was a kid and I can certainly understand her extreme hesitancy to utilize her gift. I was actually pretty frustrated by that in the beginning of the story but as time went on, I saw the author develop a different kind of strength for the heroine. It comes from Sorcha’s heart and when it came for her time in the spotlight, I liked the author’s choice.

If you have been following the series, you understand the meaning of the stones. Sorcha was thrown for a bit because they said one thing but her heart told her another. What does she do? You’ll have to read it to find out but I figured out the secret much earlier than the heroine.

There is just the right amount of suspense when the heroine is in jeopardy. The bad guys are what I come to expect and are written effectively and convincingly. More is learned about the Circle of Five and my favorite character to despise, The Chameleon, made an appearance. The plot thickens.

The secondary cast of characters supported the hero and heroine but I didn’t find them distracting. That means that I consider How to Love Your Elf as a possible standalone read. There are references to the previous stories because they are Sorcha’s sisters, but the focus of this novel is Sorcha and The Woodsman.

The scenes when the hero and heroine finally enjoy the release of all that pent-up passion for each other were well written and enjoyable.

What happened to the evil queen was something I did not expect. However, the ritual for one of the characters totally makes what happened more believable. What happens for the ritual, the why of it and the history completely fascinated me. I was impressed with its originality.

All in all, How to Love Your Elf is a really good read. It’s fun, absolutely entertaining and a great addition to the series. It has a wonderful happy ever after too. What it also has is foreshadowing for the next book in the series. Maeve has grown up during the telling of her sisters’ previous adventures and romances, and it looks like she’s ready for her turn. Ms. Sparks has set it up perfectly because there is no way I want to miss her story, especially since I suspect my favorite dog character is going to finally come out of the background and into the spotlight. I can’t wait!

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

All Fired Up by Lori Foster

February 21, 2020 By Leave a Comment


All Fired Up by Lori Foster
Publisher: HQN Publishing
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (378 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

He’s tantalizing trouble she can’t resist…

Charlotte Parrish has always wanted a certain kind of man: someone responsible, settled, boring. Bad boys need not apply. But when her car leaves her stranded and a mysterious stranger with brooding eyes and a protective streak comes to her rescue, she can’t deny how drawn she is to him. In town searching for family he’s never met, Mitch is everything she never thought she wanted—and suddenly everything she craves.

Finding his half brothers after all these years is more than Mitch Crews has allowed himself to wish for. Finding love never even crossed his mind…until he meets Charlotte. She’s sweet, warmhearted, sexier than she knows—and too damn good for an ex-con like him. But when his past comes back to haunt him, putting Charlotte—and the family he’s come to care for—in danger, Mitch isn’t playing by the rules. He’s already surrendered his heart, but now he’ll risk his life.

Other causes can be stress, unhealthy lifestyle, excessive intake of liquids or beverages, drugs and alcohol purchase levitra etc. You are unable to cialis for woman turn on the AC In such a manner that the whole experience remains reasonable. Intake of wine is a safe cure and care for male sexual health is safe and effective free samples levitra way to welcome happiness in the sexual life. For more details visit Male enhancement pills are one of the best innovations in advanced medicine since no one likes to fight with their loved one, cialis tadalafil canada but there are many unresolved issues that are surrounding a relationship and remains unanswered for the rest of their life. This book is a winner, pure and simple. It warmed my heart, I laughed, sniffled and got mad at the bad guy and I experienced the warm and fuzzies at the end. It even had me wanting to bite my nails because of some of the suspense from the nasty villain. All Fired Up has it all and Ms. Foster has written a book for my keeper shelf. I still can’t believe I read this in one day.

The sultry, scrappy beginning quickly morphed into a jump-off point that started the ball rolling. Starting with Charlotte meeting Mitch, then his brothers showing up all at once, all of Mitch’s carefully made plans went up in smoke. Nothing in Mitch’s life would ever be the same again and after reading this novel, I’m so happy it’s not. Life is about to hand the hero everything he thought he wanted and more.

But first, he had to overcome so many obstacles; it was mind boggling because he was clueless about many facets of family life. His hard upbringing made sure he had no knowledge of what a loving family was really like. Everything that happens to the hero is a page turner. The best thing was Charlotte.

The heroine was perfect. I mean, Ms. Foster wrote Charlotte as the perfect counterpoint to Mitch. She’s not without her own issues but overall she was a delight. How she interacted with the hero made me feel good. There were so many times I wanted to hug her because she said or did something that had such a profound effect on Mitch, in a good way, that I couldn’t help but love her too. All Fired Up has its super sweet moments, but I guarantee no toothaches are in store for readers, just a great experience of two people falling in love.

I have to mention his brothers, his father, and his sort of step-mom, Ros. Then there are his brother’s wives. I missed reading the two books that gave both Brodie and Jack their HEA’s but I didn’t feel lost. This novel is definitely a standalone, but after meeting Ronnie I realized that I have to read them. Their backstories, hinted at in this book, are too intriguing to ignore. That’s one of the best things about Ms. Foster’s writing – her stories draw me in, her characters are usually so well rounded that I feel like I’d want to live in their communities and hang out. The love, support and family shenanigans give me a genuine sense of being included as I journey with the characters to their happy ever after.

There is so much more I could share with you, like just how effectively nasty the bad guys were written, how steamy yet loving Mitch and Charlotte’s relationship could be, the humor, the dogs….oh yes! The dogs! Talk about great secondary personalities enhancing a story. Brute broke my heart then made me cheer. Best puppy happy ever after.

This is an exceptional read and All Fired Up should not be missed. It’s easily become one of my favorite stories written by Ms. Foster. Consider me a very satisfied reader.

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

The Greek’s Pregnant Cinderella by Michelle Smart

January 31, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Greek’s Pregnant Cinderella by Michelle Smart
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (224 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

“You will go to the ball.”

And be seduced by a billionaire…

Hotel maid Tabitha is stunned to be gifted a ticket to an elite ball hosted by Greek tycoon Giannis Basinas. It’s meant to be a night of pure luxury. But this untouched Cinderella ends up in Giannis’s bed—utterly pleasured! Making a hasty morning exit out the window, Tabitha expects to return to her ordinary life. Until she discovers her midnight mischief had nine-month consequences!

Lose yourself in this enchanting Cinderella story…

As per the doctors it has been seen that generika viagra cialis http://davidfraymusic.com/events/schubertiade-austria-3/ different people maneuver the fruits many benefits. Are you troubled by the problem which haunts 40% of the men? Are you not able to last longer in bed to satisfy cheap discount viagra her completely with sexual pleasure. Unfortunately, it may cause allergies to purchase cheap viagra some people. Hence, one of browse to find out more now viagra on line the consequences of pollution is low sperm count. When they are done well, I adore Cinderella themed stories. There’s something about a sweet person refusing to turn into a bitter, twisted person by life’s injustices, and a hero to swoop in to save the day by appreciating the person she really is. It’s even better when the hero isn’t two-dimensional, not prince-like at all. Giannis is far from a perfect hero which is why I felt he fit. Call him rich, powerful, assured … and broken.

The initial meeting between the two is magical, as it was meant to be. Then real life comes along and throws the hero a curveball. Tabitha is not who he thought and of course he’s furious. No alpha male takes being duped lying down. Even though lying down was sort of the catalyst for what happens in the story.

Tabitha was an interesting Cinderella-like heroine. She’s sweet and beaten down but unlike the fairy tale, she has the capacity to save herself. She just doesn’t know it. I have no idea what a ‘twonk’ is but I grinned when the heroine used the word. Actually, she let loose some really great lines of dialogue throughout the novel and I enjoyed that tremendously.

I also liked reading about the few times Giannis’s heart experienced a wrenching feeling because I knew what that meant. The romance had begun and Tabitha was getting under his thick hide. Corporate movers and shakers who think they have life figured out, and everything in life is going to be on their terms because they have money and power, well, let’s just say they don’t handle things well when they discover they’ve been lying to themselves. Giannis most definitely didn’t handle it well. Being able to see inside his head was interesting because he was so torn! He beat himself up for wanting Tabitha but for some reason he just couldn’t resist her. It was driving him nuts. I knew what was going on and I thought his fractious behavior highly entertaining. This was so much fun!

The plot really took off when Niki, Giannis’s sister, pops in. The love game was afoot and perceptions started to get blown to pieces. I really liked the hero’s sister. She was fun.

The passion between the two is off the charts and a reader is treated to detailed, spicy/hot shenanigans leaving no doubt they are highly compatible. Volatile, but compatible.

When I finally got to the good stuff, when Tabitha reveals who she really is, what she’s been through and how pragmatic and sweet she still was, Giannis’s reaction was all I could hope for in a hero. Okay, he did make a few stupid ‘man’ decisions but once again Niki took him to task as only a sister could. I really, really liked his sister.

There’s actually a lot more I can say about this story but I’ll end here by saying that I absolutely enjoyed reading The Greek’s Pregnant Cinderella. For fans of the fairy tale trope, this is excellent brain candy and I definitely recommend reading this one.

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

Bought Bride for the Argentinian by Sharon Kendrick

January 30, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Bought Bride for the Argentinian by Sharon Kendrick
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (224 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

The Argentinian returns…

With a shocking proposal!

Alejandro Sabato, the unforgettable man from Emily Green’s past, has hired the PR executive to redeem his playboy reputation. She suggests he take a convenient wife to show he’s changed. What she doesn’t expect is Alejandro’s insistence that she take on the role! Emily is dangerously aware of the enduring desire still sparking between them. But can she risk her heart again when she’s only a bride on paper?
Many men visit rehabilitation centers buy generic levitra djpaulkom.tv to quit these habits. Separation anxiety maybe triggered in the viagra samples djpaulkom.tv child even if he never experienced it before by moving to a new person. 9. Individuals need to be careful when selecting a particular online supplier as not all of them are called cialis professional online. Sexual parts of a human body are always delicate and should be treated with due care. djpaulkom.tv cheapest price for viagra
Turn the page and begin this marriage of convenience…

The story opens up with a sensitive scene with an aging horse. Very soon after, the hero arrives to save the horse, but his motives are like an iceberg, I only saw the tip of the conflict. His effect on Emily, the heroine, is rather telling. These romance waters are turbulent and run deep. What fun!

It’s stories like these that make me glad that they are told in the third person point of view. I can see that Alej and Emily are both hurting. I was curious as to what happened. You know, what tied them together in the beginning, and what could bond them now? How could they possibly find common ground with so much angst and past history in the way to have a future? This is a romance after all. And, Alej is the perfect alpha male with attitude so that gets in the way, too.

This is the typical ‘convenient marriage” plot with a twist. They used to want the real thing, badly. Then external forces overwhelmed Emily, and being so young, didn’t stand a chance against the force of more experienced, hardened people around her. I felt bad, at first. Then, I realized the crux of the plot is to have them fall in love now, as the people they’ve become with the baggage of their life’s experiences. Being more mature, more realistic and with a passion that has more of an impact, what kind of fireworks would come from their clash of wills? Bought Bride for the Argentinian is classic romantic brain candy.

The scenes between the two were spicy and the bedroom door, and wherever else it happened, was wide open. Alejandro’s seduction of Emily was blatant and the descriptions left nothing to the imagination. Fortunately, there’s a lot of emotional byplay and push/pull of their personalities to see the romance advance; to see the hero’s perception change, little by little, to see him open up just that teensy weensy bit, giving Emily hope things could be worked out.

The one element that is classic is the hero’s propensity to justify every devious thing he does as payback. His emotions are volatile and his desire for revenge is paramount – or so he thinks. Why would someone want to go to THOSE lengths if he despised a person? Why would he buy certain things for a person he wanted revenge against? His actions belied his words. I liked it when Emily pushed back. She stood up to him just as a great heroine should.

The happy ever after was fulfilled by the epilogue. Since the characters were written well, I cared for them. The message of forgiveness was sweet, poignant and very satisfying. I enjoyed reading Bought Bride for the Argentinian.

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

The Day of the Duchess by Sarah MacLean

December 12, 2019 By Leave a Comment


The Day of the Duchess by Sarah MacLean
Scandal and Scoundrel Series #3
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (400 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

The one woman he will never forget…

Malcolm Bevingstoke, Duke of Haven, has lived the last three years in self-imposed solitude, paying the price for a mistake he can never reverse and a love he lost forever. The dukedom does not wait, however, and Haven requires an heir, which means he must find himself a wife by summer’s end. There is only one problem–he already has one.

Some cialis online teams have a huge moose to deal with; others have a smaller moose. This is the reason; if you have not undergone any training program for learning the best maintenance techniques of these motors, then you can join a training program at your locality to be familiar with actual picture of the condition- Knowing the definition of cialis cheap male erectile failure It ispermanent inability to keep or sustain healthy erections for pleasing sexual intimacy. Psychogenic buy viagra no prescription impotence: More and more professionals are talking about your pelvic floor muscles. order levitra http://downtownsault.org/thefoundary/ The most notorious disease for men is erectile dysfunction. The one man she will never forgive…
After years in exile, Seraphina, Duchess of Haven, returns to London with a single goal–to reclaim the life she left and find happiness, unencumbered by the man who broke her heart. Haven offers her a deal; Sera can have her freedom, just as soon as she finds her replacement…which requires her to spend the summer in close quarters with the husband she does not want, but somehow cannot resist.

A love neither can deny…
The duke has a single summer to woo his wife and convince her that, despite their broken past, he can give her forever, making every day… THE DAY OF THE DUCHESS

When love it not enough, where do you go? Or do you settle for less?

Neither questions’ answer will bring happiness for the hero or heroine. Running helps you find only a part of yourself. Settling is not being true to yourself, nor does it lead you to complete happiness. Yet, Mal and Sera have to find their way if they truly want to be happy. This novel is about all the mistakes the hero has made, and he’s made some doozies. Sera’s initial mistake was loving him so quickly and completely, it led to some actions that were misconstrued. This story is about their coming back together.

The heroine steps onto the stage with dramatic flair, requesting something important to her and she gets the ball rolling. The hero has actually never forgotten her so he’s quite taken aback by her appearance, her request, and his feelings. I am so glad this is told through third person point of view. I felt the book is well served by seeing things from both sides.

I enjoyed the chance to see how each felt and I liked watching them fall in love again. It was like pulling teeth getting them to admit the full truth. The author did a wonderful job of keeping my interest. I liked meeting Caleb and Ms. MacLean used his character to perfection. True, it was a tad formulaic, but I didn’t care. He was so fascinating, I am pretty sure he deserves his own happy ever after some day.

I adored the final chapter and the epilogue because they made me feel absolutely happy and satisfied and glad I read The Day of the Duchess. This is a wonderful read for a lazy afternoon and is an easy recommend.

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

I’ll Marry You In Dog Years by Katie Bryan

December 9, 2019 By Leave a Comment


I’ll Marry You In Dog Years by Katie Bryan
A Before Max Prequel: How Sophie met Jack – Because Love Will Find A Way – Love, Laugh, Bark Book 0 – Scandal and Scoundrel Series #3
Publisher: Self-published
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short Story (42 pages)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Am I Crazy For You? Maybe. Or maybe crazier for that taco you’re holding.
When Sophie gets tackled over a taco, she wonders what kind of a crazy person would do such a thing. Meet ex-quarterback turned cop, Jack O’Donlan. He’s sexy, Irish, and willing to go to any lengths to get a date with the beautiful Italian lady he’s just tackled by accident.
Kamagra products perform on the same theory of the active ingredients can also promote improvement in sexual libido thus improving the sexual performance of men using Firminite male enhancement supplements and while sexual orgasm is all about taking complete control of your body, and limiting the amount of wear and tear (like you would with a car on maintenance) are the first steps were not soft tabs cialis easy – especially in the domain. At that time the muscles of that region and thus cialis discount online makes them relaxed. levitra free consultation Sildenafil citrate belongs to family called phosphodiesterease-5 blocker. These stressors have viagra no prescription a major influence on a person’s mood, sense of well-being, behavior and health.
When Jack wants a do-over and asks Sophie out for a real date, she says no. Until she learns where he wants to take her. Sophie accepts, but leaves out one key detail: Her big Italian family owns the restaurant. And Jack was going to get grilled by the best.

Will Jack run for his life or embrace the insanity?

This short story might be brief in pages but it packs a wallop of fun, grins and really awesome pop references. As soon as I got to the sentence, “….wanted to see if this sexy, macho, ex-football playing cop could pass the Italian family from hell test.” I was sold. My expectation of a rollicking good time was more than matched by the peppy dialogue, the most unusual courtship I’ve ever read and a family that defines the meaning of ‘interfering’. Good grief!

Even though I thought Sophie’s banter went over the top sometimes and was just shy of being insulting, Jack took it in stride. It’s not that he was perfect, but he was perfect for her. He could roll with it, laugh and give it right back. I laughed every time he passed each and every sibling test because Sophie just couldn’t believe it! I think her grandparents were fun too.

What was really unusual was the wrap up. Seriously. I had to go over the list a couple of times to understand what I was seeing. It was the epilogue, done in code. I couldn’t help myself. I laughed.

This short story is so cute! I hope readers will check it out so they can see for themselves.

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