Romance Books

Where Are You Now?: A Novel My first Mary Higgins Clark book. I really enjoyed this book and am now a MHC fan.

I can never wait for MHC's books but the last few have been very difficult for me to get through and this one was sadly disappointing, despite one of the better hooks she's had in recent years.
Though not nearly as routine as the last book, once again, I found myself totally confused by the plethora of new characters arriving every few pages and had to keep turning back to follow the threads.
The villain is, as usual with MHC's books these days very obvious. This time however, the plot spins around a major plot flaw. I wonder how many real life owners of trust funds blindly allow ANYONE to manage those accounts without checking balances etc. for over a decade?
What I always find intriguing in an MHC book is her detailed descriptions of New York's working class folk.
She studies them carefully and these characters seem authentic, though not particularly admired.
The higher class characters are all the same and quite...unreal, yet these are the characters we are expected to root for...difficult when we never learn much about them.

I've read every one of MHC's novels, and her latest "Where Are You Now?" rates high on my list as one of her most entertaining reads. I can't believe any one would call this novel predictable! I couldn't put it down wondering who was behind the tangled web of a myriad of mysteries that boiled down to one person I would least suspect. The characters and scenes were depicted perfectly, and MHC is back to her old self portraying the glitz and glamour of Manhattan's lifestyle coupled with gripping suspense. MHC is an amazing woman and I can't say enough good things about her writing style and the research she puts into her novels. She is my role model. Congratulations and keep up the good work!

I haven't read Clark in a while. This was not my memory of other books I have read. In all honesty, just too many characters...........

As usual, Mary Higgins Clark does not disappoint. Her books are easy to read, hard to put down, suspenseful stories. I just love her stuff. She leaves you guessing until the very end.

Laura Lee Guhrke's next book in her Bachelorette Girls series called, Secret Desires of a Gentleman, is a fitting title because the hero, Philip Hawthorne, The Marquess of Kayne has many hidden desires for Maria Martingale, who opens a pastisserie, which is a high end bakery for the upper London elite. Philip and Maria have history together because she was his family's cook's daughter, and at seventeen, Maria and Philip's younger brother Lawrence were going to elope. Philip put a stop to that by offering Maria a thousand pounds to leave and never see Lawrence again. Maria couldn't refuse the offer because she was all alone in the world after her father died, and was quiet penniless. She took the money and did what Philip requested. Lawrence went to the United States and Maria went on to work on her baking craft. After twelve years, the Hawthorne brothers come in contact with Maria again just on coincidence.

Philip thinks Maria is up to no good and will ruin Lawrence's plans to finally settle down and marry, which he is in the process of courting an American heiress. Philip threatens to take Maria's shop away from her because he owns the building, but this time Maria won't slink away because her dream is about to come true, and appeals to Lawrence who is all too happy to make her acquaintance yet again. There is nothing Philip can do, and hopes that Lawrence won't fall for Maria again because Philip has a very important deal with Lawrence's future father-in-law.

Maria is on cloud nine because everything she has worked so hard for is coming to pass. But Philip won't leave her alone because his excuse is to watch over her and make sure she doesn't seduce Lawrence with her feminine wiles and excellent baking techniques. And before long, these two can't keep their hands off one another. Maria doesn't want Lawrence, and longs for Philip, who is so out of her league because of the different circles they belong to. Philip is quite the snob who wants Maria, but can't marry her because he is a lofty and rich Marquess and she is a just a poor cook's daughter who will never belong in his world.

Secret Desire of a Gentleman is a sweet and fluffy read and those readers who enjoy this on-going series by Laura will certainly enjoy this latest by her. Philip and Maria's relationship is very reminiscent of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's one from that classic novel, Pride and Prejudice. Philip feels Maria is still very much below him, much like Darcy felt Elizabeth was. Philip even asks for Maria's hand in marriage after an interesting episode in his carriage with Maria, and that proposal reminded me very much like the one Darcy gives to Lizzy. Actually the first few times Philip and Maria see each other, Philip's disdain for Maria runs very deep. He truly can't stand her because of what occurred twelve years ago. But then suddenly, for no reason, Philip begins to remember the times they spent as children and his feelings turn from ones of disapproval to lust, and finally love.

Whenever I read a Laura Lee Guhrke story, I always finish with a smile on my face and I did the same with Secret Desires of a Gentleman. Maria is a lovely heroine who won't back down from those who think they can tell her what to do, which mainly happens to be Philip. I never really warmed up to Philip because he does tend to insult Maria, just because he thinks he is so high and mighty and so right. It was great to see him fall down a notch when he begins lusting after Maria, but again, that came on so suddenly that even when we find out he has kept a keepsake of Maria's from when she was a little girl, it felt a bit hollow. If the reader can put their opinions aside about Philip's sudden turn about feelings for Maria, then Secret Desires of a Gentlemen is a great read to loose yourself in for a few hours.

Katiebabs
AndThen He Kissed Her
The Wicked Ways of a Duke

I won't give a recap of the story since other reviewers have already done so. I just wanted to post that I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was very well written, had excellent character development, and a storyline that kept me hooked from page one. Although, I do agree with the other reviewers regarding the disappointing ending, I felt that overall this book was very enjoyable. Laura Lee Guhrke has become one of my favorite authors and this book lived up to my expectations.

I am a fan of Laura Lee Guhrke's "Girl Bachelor" series. I especially liked "And Then He Kissed Her," due in no small part to the heroine, Emma Dove. She was an independent, talented woman who was very likable. The hero, Harry, was likable too while still being very much an alpha. I also liked Guhrke's writing style, which was fun, breezy, and kept the story moving. So I was very surprised by this book, because I found it extremely difficult to like either of the lead characters, and I didn't particularly care for the story.

SPOILER ALERT:
Maria is supposed to be one of the finest pastry chefs in Europe. Her father was once the chef to the "hero," Phillip. Because Maria is the daughter of the help, Phillip cannot get over the difference in their social positions, and treats Maria shabbily throughout almost the entire book. There is no heat or chemistry between them; when he grabs her and kisses her, then later basically attacks her in a carriage, it seemed to make no sense. They really don't seem to like each other very much, and it's not the kind of "they don't like each other but there is a lot of tension building" fun sort of plot you might expect.

Perhaps the most egregious part of the book is the ending. Phillip proposes to her in front of a whole roomful of people at a dinner. This might have been romantic, but somehow I just kept wishing it would end. It felt stilted and embarrassing and completely implausible. And then there is the matter of Maria's greatest joy in life, which is supposed to be cooking. She is a marvelous pastry chef, as previously mentioned, and her lifelong dream is to have her own pastry shop. She finally achieves this at the beginning of the book, and chapter after chapter we are reminded of her love of and dedication to her job, which is really her passion. After Phillip proposes, Maria decides, in one sentence, to give it all up! Again, this didn't feel real or authentic to the character.

Guhrke is a good writer, so her vivid descriptions and excellent secondary characters (especially Lawrence, the younger and much more appealing brother) earn this book two stars. But the lead characters and story just seem "off." A disappointing entry in an otherwise good series.

My affections wavered throughout this book. There were things I really liked about it and things I really disliked about it.

I liked the heroine Maria and the hero's brother, Lawrence. The heroine has spunk and a good sense of humor, qualities shared with Lawrence.

I did not like the hero, Phillip. I like a book where the guy thinks he's better than the girl, but sees the error of his ways when he falls in love. Phillip had been in love with Maria for 14 YEARS and yet he looked down on her until almost the end of the book.

Given this, I wonder at their HEA. He swallowed his pride to get what he wanted but never seemed to really appreciated how shabbily he had treated her and how it made her feel. I know it was presented as self preservation, but ouch!

The relationship, which took a long time to build over the course of the book, kicked into high gear very sudddenly towards the end. Strangely, before the Phillip FINALLY made his move, their had been no indication that Maria felt romantic toward him in the least.

Also, there was far too much time spent describing food. We all have to eat, but I am just not that interested in reading about it. The time Guhrke spent disussing food would have been better spent exploring the heroine's emotions towards the hero. Also, I hated the ending scene. I cannot stand public declarations/displays of affection,

Still, I give this book 3.5-4.00 stars because of the powrful emotions it evoked.

This book was a quick and easy read. However, I agree with many of the other reviewers that the ending left a lot to be desired. There was just too much said in that public declaration. It seemed incredulous and too impulsive for Phillip. Consequently, it did not seem genuine.

Also, throughout the story I would have preferred to see a little more affection between Maria and Phillip. And she was a pastry chef for goodness sakes. That leaves a world of sweets from which to contrive some very romantic moments, but there were none, save the bit of sweet on her mouth in one scene. And if there was so much focus on the dang food, certainly it should have been tied in more to make the story a little more seductive. As it was, it was all just way too predictable.

Finally, I think she should have known about her feelings for him for all those years and not have suddenly discovered that they were for him and not his brother. She would have known it but known that Lawrence was her second choice, right? And I guess I was just never really convinced that she actually had always loved him.

It was an entertaining read for me, but not very memorable.

A typical Debbie Macomber story. The whole series needs to be read to enjoy fully. A perfect 'rainy day' read.

This is the fourth book in Deb Macomber's Cedar Cove series starts us in B&B with Bob and Peggy trying to solve the mystery of the murder of one of Bob's old war buddies. Much like all of Deb's books this fourth book is loaded with side plots and wonderfully developed characters. We're given the odd couple of story with the Griffins - a newly wed couple. Well, now that I think about it, most of the sub plots revolve around marriage. So just sit back and enjoy the wonderful little town of Cedar Cove.

Editor of the highly recommended novel: Fates by Georgiou Tino: Best of 2008

The book was shipped right away to me. I enjoyed reading this book since I'm following the characters. I was unable to put the book down.

WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT THIS BOOK?
I READ IT IN A DAY AND A HALF. NEVER IN MY WILDEST DREAMS WOULD I ENJOY A "ROMANCE" NOVEL BUT THIS IS BETTER THAN THE LAST.
THE WAY THE AUTHOR INTRODUCES THE CHARACTERS YOU FEEL YOU KNOW THEM. SHE IS AN INCREDIBLE STORY TELLER.
JUST READ AND ENJOY.
LORI S

There just seemed to be too much rehashing of the previous books. If you have been reading this series from the beginning you already knew what Macomber was telling you in the first third of this book.

Cranberry Point finally ties up the story behind Max Russell and why he died at the B&B. Marriages and babies abound and a couple new love interests are sparked. And who would have thought that a dog and bachelor auction would ignite so much.

Besides the repeating of old stories lines, this book hit me a little wrong with the tone of voice of many of the women. I just wish that they didn't sound so whiney and unsure of themselves. Even Olivia, the judge, sounds whiney and at times pathetic. Macomber needs to get back on track and give these women some more strength and backbone.

Another WONDERFUL, heartwarming book by Wanda Brunstetter. This book is worth reading and also sharing! My daughter has a form of autism and she also LOVED this book. I read her the book, then we made the White Christmas Pie. While reading the book, we never wanted to put it down. The story & pie recipe was GREAT!!!!! Thank you Wanda Brunstetter!!!!

I found this to be a very heartwarming book. I loved it from page one to the last. The characters tug at your heart and you feel like you are there with them.I would recommend this to everyone! I plan to read it again and again!!

This was a great story, as the Amish stories always are :) Not only did it deal with very human emotions that we all have - regardless of which Church we attend, it was one of those too-good-to-put-down books. Without giving the plot away, there was a part in it that the reader wouldn't have easily guessed, dealing with assumptions we all can make against eachother. The characters were sweet and believable,letting us catch a glimpse into the lives of the Amish, and in the end there was a recipe for White Christmas Pie that I know I will make again and again.

My husband purchased this book for me for my Birthday knowing what a big fan I am of Wanda Brunstetter. It was a wonderful book and I enjoyed it very much. I actually felt like I was right there with Will and Karen.I also enjoy all of the recipes Wanda puts in her books. I can't wait til I try making the White Christmas Pie. Kudos to Wanda for writing another great book.

Wanda Brunstetter has taken us through another heart-warmer (and page turner!) in White Christmas Pie. In this story, we are introduced to Will, a young man about to marry his Amish girlfriend, Karen Yoder. As a young boy, Will's father left him to be looked after by an Amish couple, Mark and Regina Stotlzfus, until he could find a better job. Through a series of misunderstandings and tragic events, Will's father doesn't return and Will is raised by Mark and Regina to become the young Amish man he is today. When an event occurs that reminds him of his abandonment, he is thrown into an emotional tailspin, and the only way to come out of it is for Will to have answers to the questions that have haunted him for most of his life. Will he get the answers he needs, and will they be enough? Will he marry Karen Yoder? Can he move forward, or will he be lost forever in the hurts of his past? I really liked the way all the loose ends were tied up, with a few surprises thrown in at the end that I didn't see coming, but that made the story complete. I don't want to give the story away, you'll have to read it yourself, but I will tell you that for the last three chapters in the book, I was reading through my tears, and I couldn't put the book down and read it in record time. Wanda Brunstetter has deliverd another great story! The recipe at the end was an added bonus!

Received in a good timely manner. Looking forward to read. As advertised at a great price. Very happy

Enjoyable chic-lit, in the vein of Bridge Jones Diary. Plucky British working woman, trying to find love and happiness, confused about who the right man is.

The book does raise the issue of what kind of person you are, whether you are defined by your memories, your actions, your past, your intentions. But it doen't hit you over the head with it.

I have yet to come across a Sophie Kinsella novel that I haven't thoroughly enjoyed. They are light-hearted, sometimes silly, and fun. Remember Me? was not an exception to this. I read it when I was on vacation in Germany, and finished over 2 nights; I simply could not put it down. My only complaint was that the characters were not really fleshed out much, and the reader never really got understand their personalities. I would really like a sequel to this novel, so that I could get to know the characters a little more. Overall, I found this book to be a quick, entertaining read, and I am looking forward to Kinsella's next novel.

What happens if you wake up one morning and realize that all of your dreams have magically come true overnight? That's what happens to Lexi Smart. She wakes up in a hospital one to find that she doesn't recognize herself - literally. The frizzy hair is gone, replaced by a sleek, shiny mane, and the lifelong nickname "Snaggletooth" just doesn't apply anymore...and why do her lips look suspiciously plumper? She doesn't even believe the Louis Vuitton handbag that the nurse hands her is actually hers. Why? Because Lexi has no memory of the past three years. In her mind, she's a struggling assistant manager at a flooring company who just had a typical crazy night out with her girlfriends in 2004. In reality, she's actually a member of the Board of Directors of that flooring company and is waking up from a minor car accident in 2007.

Lexi finds that she has everything she has ever wanted: she is beautiful, married to a ridiculously good-looking guy, makes a lot of money, and lives in the most beautiful loft she has ever seen. So what if everyone at the office not-so-secretly wishes she hadn't recovered from the car accident? And so what if her oldest friends don't want anything to do with her anymore? And does it really matter if her new husband scolds her like a child for not putting her shoes away properly? Remember Me? is the tale of Lexi's quest to discover what happened to her during those three years to turn her into a person whom she doesn't physically or emotionally recognize, and what she does when she finds out that her new life may not be as picture perfect as it seems.

Remember Me? is funny, witty, and absolutely charming; it is perhaps Kinsella's best work yet. The characters are extremely well written and appealing. Like all of Kinsella's protagonists, Lexi is quirky and a bit off-center. What makes this book fresh and unique, however, is that when she wakes, Lexi is the woman that every chick lit heroine loves to hate: sleek and polished, beautiful, refined, and very unpleasant in the workplace. It's interesting to see what Kinsella does with that role reversal, how the reader sympathizes with the snooty boss in charge instead of condemning her. The most interesting parts of the book come when Lexi is trying to discover what drove her to this complete personality change. She looks at what her husband and friends demonstrate that her life has become and searches for some fragment of the Lexi she knows within it.

Ironically, it is not with her husband that Lexi finds remnants of the woman she used to be, but with his architect partner, Jon. Jon delivers startling news to her soon after their first meeting and, unsure of whether to trust him, she holds him at arm's length while trying to decipher the puzzle of the last three years.

Remember Me? is a fresh look at what might happen if that fairy-tale wish comes true: "I wish I could wake up to find a new me, someone completely different than I am now." Its hilarious situations and witty humor make it a real force to be reckoned with in the chick-lit genre. The fact that it comes with some definite introspection makes it that much better. It is an absolutely enjoyable experience; readers will race through the pages to find out what happens to Lexi as they try to discover the secrets of her past together. Kinsella has really outdone herself with this work. Any fan of chick lit should pick this up immediately.

Originally published on Curled Up With A Good Book

I realize after reading this book how great of an author Sophie Kinsella is. I loved this book and was actually sad when I finished it. The characters are great, the story was wonderful and so much fun.
A MUST read!

I generally love these novels...this one just didn't hit the mark for me. Overly long and way too much time between beginning, middle, and end...and the ending was not satisfactory after suffering through the book to get there!

This is only the second book in my entire life that I have not been able to finish. I have read all of both Faye and Jonathan Kellerman's previous books. I have felt for awhile that Faye was running out of ideas.

There is no emotion in this book at all. The Decker family interactions are all rote at this point. Great opportunities for Hannah as a rebellious teenager don't materialise - at least in the half of the book that I read. Her character Christopher Donatti gives me the creeps, and I am tired of him popping up when there is no logical reason connected to the story for him to do so. After reading page after page of Scott, Marge, and Decker trying to a link a bunch of nothing characters together I gave up. It was just too boring, there was nothing happening that made me want to keep reading to find out whodunit. I am disappointed that I wasted $9.99 to download this. I chose it over Louise Penny's "The Cruelest Month" and I'm sorry I did.

I ended up downloading Thomas L. Friedman's Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America" and read that instead - it was amazing.

a smart mystery, Kellerman develops her ongoing characters with every outing in this series

Reviewed by Tina Avon for RebeccasReads (9/08)


I have read all of Faye and Jonathan's novels over the years and have, for the most part, always thoroughly enjoyed them. This most recent book by Faye Kellerman, entitled The Mercedes Coffin, left me both thrilled and confused. As always, Kellerman brings back the familiar characters that we love so much. I have come to feel comforted by the presence of Peter Decker; he just projects an air of efficiency and calmness around him and I love reading him. Of course, the rest of the cast is back again, including Rina Lazarus.

Peter is asked to reopen a fifteen-year old cold case that seems eerily similar to a murder that has just occurred. The murder victims were both found dead in the trunk of their Mercedes. Peter is under the gun to get this resolved as quickly as possible, because someone with money and power is pulling all the strings. Speaking of someone with money, I thought that the character of Genoa was a very nice addition to the storyline and she also ended up being a very interesting character.

The storyline speeds along nicely, and I found myself totally involved and zipping right along until I got through about two thirds of the book. At this point, I felt Kellerman had added so many characters to her storyline that I needed a crib sheet just to follow along. I managed to read through to the satisfying end, but I have to say that I would not be capable of describing all of the characters in this novel, and I would certainly not be able to tell you how each one interacted with the others.

Unfortunately, this novel did get a little bogged down for me towards the end. This did not remove from the bang-up ending, but did remove some of my enjoyment from the storyline. I must say that I was thrilled that Rina's presence was kept to a minimum in this novel. Although I love Faye Kellerman's books, I read them because of the Decker character, NOT because of the Lazarus character, which I often find bossy and somewhat irritating.

This is a good thriller; I do not think that Faye Kellerman is incapable of writing a bad one, but be warned that you will need to really focus and concentrate on this one.

I have enjoyed the Decker series since the beginning, WHAT HAPPENED? Its as if Faye Kellerman wasn't writing the book! I have enjoyed the characters and learning about the Jewish faith, but something is very wrong. I couldn't keep track of the characters (I thought it was me, until I read another review that said the same thing). I haven't even been able to finish the book although I am trying. Faye we love you, please take note of this and bring back the old format in the next book. Your fans will be back; I hope you are to.

I enjoyed this book even better than the 1st - Magic Bites. I really enjoy the Kate Daniels books as they seem like they could be more realistic than other were/vamp novels - if that's possible. Not that demons coming out of the ground and the undead who talk to deformed vampires is real, but there's no sugar coating on the vamps just purple heavy duty sunscreen. I love these little bits of dark humor. The characters are not some romantic image of a monster - they are really monsters. This book has it all: Demons, witches, wereanimals, vamps, undead, magic druids, super heroine and everything unimaginable with a hint of romance. Go ahead and take a ride and read this book!

This book is the second in a series (the first is Magic Bites). The heroine - Kate - is a mercenary who deals with magic problems. In this book a flare (a time when magic is strong) occurs. Kate ends up with her hands full. Not only does she have a teenager to take care of, she has some seriously bad things that want her dead. I don't want to give away the story, so that is all I am going to say on the plot.

The books is well written and incredibly fast paced. I would definitely read the first book before this one to help you understand what is going on. It is a book that keeps you entertained and wanting to find out what happens next. The heroine is sarcastic and powerful, and she certainly isn't perfect which makes her even more likable. Curran is involved in this story, and while he is somewhat heavy handed, he is still a likable guy - maybe because he is so loyal to his pack. Anyway, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast paced fantasy book without any gratuitous sex scenes.

When I read the first book, I decided to try the second since the first really got my attention. The second is even better than the first. Has a lot of elements I like in books.

Action. It jumps right in. Gotta love that.

Comedy. Not all over the place, but enough for a chuckle every now and them.

"kick-butt" attitude.
Character development.

My only complaint was that the book was too short.

Kate Daniels doesn't go looking for trouble, trouble finds her. After the Weres hand over an embarrassing job to her (someone actually accomplished breaking into their keep and stealing their maps)she runs into more problems then she can chew. Nothing new for her. In this alternate Atlanta where magic and technology comes and goes in flashes, Kate battles on the side morally right as much as she battles her inner demons and biologocial secrets.

This is not a romance novel, but more of a urban paranormal mystery with a true kick-but character. I love the fact that she's not the prettiest thing on the block, nor the nicest. She's average, but with extraordinary secrets that even the readers are attempting to read and learn more about. Yet, for those of you die hard romance readers, there is an underlining romance iffy line. Kate and the Curran (the head of the Atlanta Weres; i.e.Mr. Big, Bad, and Scary)seems to constantly be stumbling into each other. He's either rescuing her from near death or her jobs bring her into contact with his people. What I like about these parts are that they lighten the mood for the book and lead to a few chuckles. I especially like the part where he treats her like a mouse toy and "plays" with her by tossing her around the room a few times.

Overall, it's a great, unique book and I'm axiously awaiting the next in this series.

Ilona Andrews deserves credit for creating an exceptionally detailed world, with a heroine you would actually like to meet. Kate, the heroine, is hardworking, brave, wise-cracking, ethical, and caring. Her job may call for violence, but it is not her first choice for dealing with every situation. The plot led from one scene to the next so seamlessly that this book was hard to put down - so I didn't. I read it all in one sitting, and when I was done I decided that a night's sleep was a small price to pay for such an engrossing story.

**Courtesy of Wild on Books**

Berkley Sensation really knows how to light up the Christmas season, with an anthology guaranteed to be on many a Christmas list this year! With four hot novellas by Lora Leigh, Nalini Singh, Erin McCarthy, and Linda Winstead Jones, THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAT will thrill lovers of paranormal romance.

Each of the stories shares a common theme - they are all paranormal stories that center around a feline. Although three of them are part of series by those authors, each works well as a standalone story that will give new fans a tantalizing taste of those authors' work.

With four short stories that are big on romance, THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAT is truly a gift for lovers of romantic fiction!

~STROKE OF ENTICEMENT by Nalini Singh~

It is not unusual for a Changeling to recognize his mate the moment he sees her. When Zach meets his nephew's pretty teacher, Annie, he can't deny his reaction to her. Everything about her entices the man in him as well as the leopard.

But Annie is more than a little skittish, determined that any relationship will be short-term only. Zach must restrain himself in order to seduce her not only into his bed, but into his life forever.

I have loved every story in Nalini Singh's PSY/CHANGELING series so far, but I do believe that Zach and Annie's story is my new favorite! Everything about this tale totally worked for me.

Zach was true to his feline nature, with a personality that is a little bit sly, a lot playful, and a way about him that effortlessly wins the heart of both Annie and the reader. He faces every obstacle facing them with patient cunning, ultimately winning his heart's desire.

Annie is just a doll. Although she has a slight physical disability, she never lets it get the best of her, and always keeps a positive outlook. This quality, along with her natural empathy for others, makes her a wonderful teacher, but it also makes it easy to see why Zach is drawn to her.

STROKE OF ENTICEMENT is a wonderfully fun romance that will please fans of Nalini Singh's PSY/CHANGELING series and entice new fans to want more.

Connected Stories:
Slave to Sensation (Psy-Changelings, Book 1)
Visions of Heat (Psy-Changelings, Book 2)
Caressed By Ice (Psy-Changelings, Book 3)
Mine to Possess (Psy-Changelings, Book 4)
Hostage to Pleasure (Psy-Changelings, Book 5)
An Enchanted Season
The Magical Christmas Cat

~CHRISTMAS BREE by Erin McCarthy~

Bree doesn't know quite what to think when her sister predicts that the man of her dreams will come knocking on her front door very soon. Despite her belief in the paranormal, it all just seems a little too unreal, especially the part where he'll be wearing a pink shirt and sport a yuppie look, in stark contrast to her own more Goth style.

Then her cat turns up that bit of magical mistletoe she and her sisters put a love spell on a year ago... No wonder she's been having erotic dreams lately!

So when Ian turns up on her doorstep looking every inch the lawyer he is, she can't quite turn him away... Their unlikely attraction seems to be pre-ordained at first, but does Ian really want her or is he simply seducing her on behalf of his mysterious client?

If you read AN ENCHANTED SEASON, then you've already met the Murphy sisters in Erin McCarthy's novella CHARLOTTE'S WEB. Ms. McCarthy continues matchmaking these women in her offering to THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CAT. CHRISTMAS BREE follows the brief courtship between Ian and Bree, two polar opposites.

Or at least, that is the way they appear on the outside... As they get to know each other, this unlikely pair finds they have more in common than they might ever have expected. As their feelings for each other grow, both Ian and Bree reevaluate what is important to them, and what they want to do with their futures.

In the end, we have a beautiful love story that demonstrates that it is who we are on the inside that really counts and if you look past what is on the surface, you may be pleasantly surprised by what you find underneath.

Connected Stories:
An Enchanted Season
The Magical Christmas Cat

~SWEET DREAMS by Linda Winstead Jones~

When Ruby receives the mysterious cat sculpture as a present from a secret admirer, she is a little unnerved. And that is before the weird things start happening - strange feline sounds in her home, the cat seemingly moving on its own, and those frighteningly real dreams...

When her sexy but preoccupied neighbor shows a sudden interest in her and the cat, she doesn't know quite what to think. Is Zane truly trying to help her or is he behind the growing threat she feels is near?

I've not read anything by Linda Winstead Jones until SWEET DREAMS, but I liked the story a lot. Her characters are likable, the plot was very good, and the story flowed well.

Ian was a great hero, with the sense of nobility romance readers expect from a romantic lead. Ruby was adorable, with a knack for loosening the oh-so-disciplined Ian up, tempting him with more than her baked goods...

My only disappointment with SWEET DREAMS is the heat level. Surrounded by three stories that had plenty of steam, I fully expected at least one really good love scene in this one, but it just didn't happen. While the romance was definitely there, and we enjoy one nice scene with a little foreplay, the lack of a more sensual bedroom scene made it seem a little out of place in this anthology.

Still, the story was very entertaining, and I will certainly be reading more of Ms. Jones' work in the future.

~CHRISTMAS HEAT by Lora Leigh~

When Haley McQuire is a witness to a plot against the Breed community, she finds herself in unexpected danger. Noble Chavin immediately appoints himself as her personal bodyguard, a situation that she doesn't mind in the least. She has had eyes for the handsome Jaguar Breed for some time, and being near him is certainly no hardship.

Noble has been more than patient, biding his time for the last year in order to give his sweet little librarian time to get used to him, to choose to be with him on her own before the Mating Heat takes control of both their libidos. When an attempt on her life is made, all bets are off. Noble will do whatever it takes to keep his mate safe, and to finally make her his.

But treachery lurks within the Breed Compound, and in order to protect Haley, they must ferret out the traitor in their midst.

Lora Leigh does it again! Her addictive BREEDS saga grows ever more popular with each release in this series, and CHRISTMAS HEAT is sure to win a whole new set of fans for her. This novella includes characters we've met and liked in other stories, but works well as a standalone for those who haven't yet read the previous tales.

Like her story in HOT SPELL, THE BREED NEXT DOOR, this new short story reminds readers of just everything that the BREEDS have missed in their hard lives. In this case, we see the Christmas experience through Noble's eyes as he learns what the season really means from Haley.

Noble is the epitome of the Breed hero - a man who loves with every fiber of his being, is savagely protective, and undeniably sexy. I have to admit I find Noble just as irresistible as Haley does.

Haley is a breath of fresh air in Noble's world. She brings a normalcy and wonder to his life that he never knew existed. She is constantly thinking of others, wanting simply to make people happy and comfortable.

CHRISTMAS HEAT is a perfect combination of sweet love and lusty romance. I've already read it twice, and know I'll be reading this one again and again through the years.

Connected Stories:
For a full list of the stories in the Breeds saga, please check my Listmania list at Amazon for Lora Leigh's Breeds books. There are too many books in the series to list here.

This is one of those "can't put down" books and I loved the story. What a super idea and a great life lesson. I would highly recommend this book but only if you have time read it, all day and take it to bed with you until you are finished. Fun and entertaining but so true!

I have read all of the blossom street stories and have enjoyed 'meeting' all of the people, and following their lives. This story is good, not as emotional as some of the others, but a good story and I am waiting for the next one!!

After a good mystery, or heart-tugging stories by Jodi Picoult, it's nice to read Debbie Macomber's comfortable style. Debbie's characters are real and likeable and when finished, I'm never ready for the story to end. I enjoyed Twenty Wishes and think many will find themselves writing their own twenty wishes shortly after this inspiring story ends.

I have enjoyed all the Blossom Street books but this is the first one that has given me something to take away besides a lovely story. I want to start my own book of 20 wishes and am going to borrow some of my list from the characters!

But back to the story. The book started out a little slower for me than others in the series, partially because of a number of new characters (or characters who were primarily in the background) and that familiar characters from previous books are very much in the background. But once I got into it, I really enjoyed it.

I enjoy books about women friends and how they support each other and make changes in their lives. I definitely recommend this book.

What an outstanding book. No, it isn't a classic that is deep and riveting. It is a cozy book about women and overcoming our limitations that the mind has set. After 4 widows meet on Valentine's Day, they agree it would be fun to make a list of 20 wishes. Things they were longing to do, NOT had to do.

Each chapter has a different person's point of view and their thinking of their wish list. The characters are so personable, you feel like if you saw them on the street that you could hug them -- like bumping into an old friend. That is how well Debbie writes.

I wish more Blossom Street series books were coming out SOON! One can only hope!

The Cedar Cove Series is about a lovely town in the North West that tells how families live and adapt in a small town. It is so warm, well written and interesting it was hard to put down and I couldn't wait to start each new book. I have read books 1-7 and cant wait for more. Please hurry up Sept. Hehe. Enjoy.

The book was sent to me fast. I had a great time reading this book and it kept me interestd1

This is the third book in Deb Macomber's Cedar Cove series brings us back to this ruralesque winter town whose residents Rosie and Zach and the troubles in their marriage and how repairing a marriage is sometimes seen as old fashion (especially in this time of speedy divorce) it does lend to the charm of the novel. This being the third book in the series you'll be reunited with the familiar members of this character rich story and enjoy the light easy read and feel of Deb's writing.

Editor of the novel: Fates by Georgiou, Tino Fates (2nd Edition)

Too much review and repeat when reading the entire series. Makes stories too long

Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

Judge Olivia Lockhart has met yet another court decision that has folks reeling. This time during the divorce proceedings of Zach and Rosie Cox, Olivia has decreed their children get the house and Zach and Rosie are the ones who have to rotate between residences for the joint custody agreement. Now Zach and Rosie are adjusting to their new lives and revolving schedules. Rosie has gone back to work as a school teacher and Zach is adjusting to doing all the housework. What will happen next at 311 Pelican Court?

Of course, as we regular visitors to Cedar Cove know, there is never a dull moment in the picturesque small town. Olivia and Jack's on again off again relationship leaves room for Olivia's ex-husband, Stan, to try to move back into her life. Grace has discovered what it feels like to be involved in an illicit internet relationship and has to decide between patient Cliff Harding and her internet affair. Roy McAfee is still trying to solve the mystery of the man who died at the bed-and-breakfast and discovering some shocking secrets.

Each of my previous visits to Cedar Cove have been delightful and this third trip in 311 Pelican Court, is like coming home again. All of the residents have become my friends and I am always excited to hear what else has been going on in their lives. I especially love that Debbie Macomber doesn't rush her stories in the series. It's not uncommon for one book to cover a year or more worth of time and events. These extended visits give us a much stronger sense of all of the residents in town and really feel like the variety of story lines are given their due, while still focusing on the lead characters in each book.

Zach and Rosie's family has so much to get used to with the collapse of their marriage. Anger and bitterness may me the name of the game initially, but the deeper emotions that brought them together in the first place are still there, if buried. Zach has taken Rosie for granted, not realizing how much she has to do every single day as a stay at home mom and perpetual volunteer. Rosie has gotten so wrapped up in all her little projects and the feeling of pride they give her that she has lost sight of what is most important in her life. These two have a lot to work through in their divorce and don't see in the beginning how much their children are suffering. Watching them come to terms with, and put to rest, their past problems makes for a stronger relationship in the end, one they may never have found without the divorce.

Of course, everyone in Cedar Cove has their own share of problems to deal with. Grace had been so unhappy for so long that when she is finally free of her marriage, it opens new doors for her she never imagined. Temptation rears its ugly head as she struggles with a life she had never known before. Olivia and Jack care deeply for each other but their busy lives cause difficulties in their growing relationship, especially when Stan divorces his second wife and realizes what he let go when he abandoned Olivia all those years ago. While I normally do not care for love triangles, this one appealed to me because of the circumstances surrounding it all. One of my favorite secondary stories in 311 Pelican Court was Maryellen and Jon's relationship. After giving birth to their child, Maryellen's eyes are opened to a life she never wanted or expected. As she begins to realize how deep her feelings for Jon go, she grows more and more frustrated he is resistant to a life together.

Roy McAfee's story takes a back seat to many of the others but enough time is spent with him and his investigation into the dead John Doe at the bed-and-breakfast to set up the chain of events leading into the next book in the series, 44 Cranberry Point, which centers on the owners of the B-and-B. However, don't think that because this story is going to be more explored later that it means we're left in the lurch. Several answers finally come to light as to how a small group of men is connected. Yet, enough mystery is left there to keep us wondering what will come next.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, May 2008. All rights reserved.