FINDING DESTINY by Jean Johnston

A Sons of Destiny Series Book
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: January 4th, 2011
ISBN. 978-0-425-23862-2
Fantasy Romance
Paperback
Obtained by publisher
Reviewed by Dawn


Four novellas in one book set in the world of the Sons of Destiny series where danger, passion and more abound. Set in four nations: Sundara, the desert nation, Guildara, the high-tech nation, Arual, the most prosperous nation & Jenodan Isles, the Seafaring nation, in the magical world created by Jean Johnson.

The Slave tells a tale of a priestess who discovers an unexpected connection to a nobleman/slave who has secrets that may destroy their newfound love.

The Knight tells a tale of a diplomat who must try to turn a fragile bond between Arual and Guildara into something more permanent. When the diplomat Sir Zeilas meets the Guildaran’s leader, sparks fly.

The Mage tells a tale of a woman who thinks she is on a mission to forge ties with the King of Arual when instead she is his proposed bride. With the fate of two nations hanging in the balance, can she find a way to forgive the deception played on her and fall in love with the King?

The Pirate tells a tale of ships being plagued by pirates in the Jenodan Isles. When Capt. Ellett is sent to defeat the pirates, he finds something much more enticing-the pirate captain, Mita, a sexy woman who may just steal his heart.

If you haven’t read this author’s Sons of Destiny series than you might get a bit lost as these are short novellas set in that magical world. But for me this was a really good introduction to the series and I found that each story was unique in itself and highly enjoyable. Though each story is a bit different, the reader can enjoy how intricate this magical world is. I enjoyed finding out more about each nation and how they interconnect with one another. The writing is tight, stories flowed nicely from one to the other and the characters are very well written.

Each story is set in one of the nations populated in the Sons of Destiny series and the readers are treated to a chance to know the people and lands better. I found each story to be fresh, amusing and enjoyable all around though a few of the stories could have had been better off as longer stories as I wanted to know more about the characters and the nation. Jean Johnson is an amazing world builder and this collection of novellas is no exception. This is a rich world full of amazing people and nations that these four short novellas just wetted my appetite for more. If you haven’t read any of the Sons of Destiny books then this is your chance to get a feel of this author’s writing style and some of the places in the series. Each story is a wonderful ride from start to finish and the reader is left aching for more. The characters are very well written and the stories moved at a nice even pace.

FINDING DESTINY is a wonderful book that has me racing to read the Sons of Destiny series now. I look forward to seeing what else this author can come up with in the future.


THIS IS NOT AN ENDORSEMENT OF THIS BOOK. THIS IS AN OBJECTIVE UNBIASED REVIEW

SEVEN NIGHTS TO FOREVER by Evangeline Collins

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date Published: November 2010
ISBN: 9780425236833
Historical Romance
Trade Paperback
Reviewed by Lil
Obtained by Publisher


When her father’s death reveals that she and her younger brother have been left in debt, all of Rose Marlowe’s girlish dreams come crashing down around her. She remakes herself in order to save her family home, and to give her beloved Dash the security, upbringing, and advantages of a gentleman. With the work of a week from every month at Madame Rubicon’s celebrated brothel, one sibling is able to shelter the other from the truth of their circumstances but at great cost to her own future prospects.

Three years in a cold marriage has worn away at James Archer’s soul. The wealthy merchant with a large heart had sacrificed himself to be the husband of a relentlessly scathing, hateful and haughty woman in order to secure his sister entre into society and sponsorship in her all important Season.

The demoralized man's steps lead him to the backdoor of one of London’s finest brothels to seek just one night of respite. With that first shockingly chaste meeting both James and Rose find solace and companionship but the attraction between them flares to fruition though faced with no hope for a happy ending.

SEVEN NIGHTS TO FOREVER was a pleasure to read from start to finish. Ms Collins has an elegant style of writing that exposes her characters in the course of the story so that we can become familiar and embrace their story. It was thrilling to read their first brushes of attraction, the tightening sexual tension, and the luxurious love scenes.

All the same, some of the decisions that the heroine made for the good of her brother were exasperating, who seemed to be far too spoiled for anyone’s good. It seemed curious that she was so pragmatic and that he was so thoughtless. However, the author makes the reader feel the weight of responsibility which Rose has shouldered in trying to do all in her power to give Dash what she believes he deserves. With her genuine kind nature, and beauty of spirit it is easy to see how she touches the hearts of those around her. And more importantly, how she captures the hero’s heart.

James is a remarkable match to Rose’ character in quiet stoicism, but with a core of strength, biding its time to burst free when most needed. He is hard working, contained, conscientious and sexy as all get out. His focus on her as they fall in love is not clouded with illusions. He is well aware of exactly what she is and grapples with the understanding of it. This gave the story somewhat more credence than it might otherwise have had.

Two secondary characters were fleshed out. James’s younger sister, Rebecca, was surprisingly worldly, and Rose’s good friend Timothy Ashton also at the employ of Madame Rubicon’s is fascinatingly vulnerable. Hopefully, the author will give us each of their stories in turn.

Evangeline Collins has found a fan in me with SEVEN NIGHTS TO FOREVER. It is a wonderful, steamy romance with a deserving hero and heroine.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of the book.

THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED by Lila DiPasqua

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: November 2010
ISBN: 978 0425237007
Romance Erotic Historical
Trade Sized Paperback
Reviewed by Pam
Obtained via publisher


There are three erotic tales using old fairy tales in this book. The author has twisted them into an adult form and three confirmed bachelors may find themselves tied in knots.

The Marquis New Clothes: This is the tale of widowed Aimee De Miran, who must find a ring that has slipped into a courtiers pocket, to save her cousin Louise from Renault, the bad tempered Kings Lieutenant and General of Police. The only problem is Adam de Vey, Marquis de Nattes. Adam is known for his prowess in bed with the ladies of the Versailles court, so Aimee feels a little trapped, but agrees to search. What she doesn’t know, is that he’s secretly fancied her for many years, even while she was married.

Passions flare and Aimee and Adam begin an affair, while she searches for the ring. He’s trying to find out why she wants to mess up his armoires.

The Lovely Duckling: Emilie de Sarron was burnt as a child, and had been derided by her peers, despite none of them ever actually seeing her scars. She has spent many years since the incident in hiding, but has never forgotten the incident and how Joseph d’Alumbert had let his friends make her think she was ugly.

Emilie arrives at a masquerade where anything goes, including public sex. Shocked but wanting to try it out, she dons her costume and mask then waits to see what will happen. Joseph recognizes her and pretends to be his twin brother, Vincente, determined to change her perception of not being beautiful, plus wanting her to see he’s sorry. What he hadn’t bargained on was the feelings he’s grown for Emilie.

The Princess And The Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle is on a mission to save her brother from ruin, by gambling with her father’s diamonds. Mathias Tesson, Marquis of Montfort has been ordered by the Lieutenant General and the King, to spy on the gamblers playing Basset as too many players had lost everything.

A young man appears to be the latest person likely to lose, but Mathias soon realizes he is actually a beautiful woman. A game of hide and seek ensues as he tries to learn her real name. Falling in love was not his intention, but he finds himself doing it anyway and is left wondering who she really is.

Ms. DiPasqua has brought these adult tales to life in a fascinating way. They are interesting to read, very, very hot, but also deeply sensuous and romantic. If you like your heroes to be hot in and out of bed, you’ll love these erotic historical tales. Beautifully written sex scenes will keep you turning the pages well into the night. These tales are ones you won’t want to share with your mother. The heroines are all interesting, especially Emilie who has kept herself hidden away for so long. She is no longer a duckling but a beautiful swan that has lost her inhibitions by the end of the story. The princess had such an unusual ending I have to admit it was a surprise ending I hadn’t expected.

If you love historical tales with a twist, THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, is a book you’ll really enjoy reading. Ms. DiPasqua has written a very sensual set of tales with great characters. She has interesting heroines and very sexy heroes who will I’m sure beguile you. Plus each story is different with characters so well written, the great sex scenes are almost a bonus.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

ANIMAL MAGNETISM by Jill Shalvis

Publishing: Berkley Sensation,
Date Published: February 2011
ISBN: 9780425239810
Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Tammy
Obtained via publisher


Jill Shalvis’ amusing contemporary romance, ANIMAL MAGNETISM, was light, funny and plain old enjoyable read.

Lilah Young runs a kennel in Sunshine, Idaho where she happily spends her days tending the town’s animals, amongst her lifelong friends. Ex-military pilot and photographer Brady Miller, has finally decided to take up his foster brothers’ offer to spend some time on the ranch, he co-owns with them. He isn’t in town an hour before literally bumping into Lilah. Their attraction is instantaneous. But Brady is only visiting and has a real problem with emotional connections and Lilah, isn’t a temporary kind of woman.

Jill Shalvis’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM is pure fun. From the very first scene where Lilah backs her jeep into Brady’s parked truck and she jumps out, with dogs, a duck and a pot belly pig on leashes, the tone for this entertaining tale has been set. When Brady is forced to foster a puppy while Lilah supposedly looks for a home for it, it is hard to decide whether the dog or the man are more endearing. Lilah is upbeat and deeply cares for everyone in her hometown of Sunshine, Idaho, including the wide variety of pets that spend time at her kennel. Since two of her best friends own a ranch where she spends a great deal of time with her charges, Lilah and Brady are bound to be spending some time together. Their attraction is magnetic from the start. As wacky and entertaining as Lilah is, Brady is far more complex. On the surface, he is all smiles and sex appeal. But under the surface character, Brady has a real hard time with emotional commitments. Though he and his foster brothers jointly own the ranch, this is the first time in years he has bothered to visit. And a visit is all he is ready to commit to at this point. He is so not prepared to meet hurricane Lilah.

This reader freely admits that the cover for this book was what hooked her. The story, thankfully, lived up to the cover. Jill Shalvis’ ANIMAL MAGNETISM is the kind of book that you read when you just want to relax and have a laugh or two, while falling in love with a solid hero who doesn’t realize he is in need of saving.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

WORTH THE TRIP by Penny McCall

Publisher: Berkley Sensations
Date Published: November 2010
ISBN: 9780425238479
Romantic Adventure
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Tammy
Obtained via: publisher


Penny McCall’s latest romantic adventure from Berkley Sensations, WORTH THE TRIP, is a tangle of clues, miscues and a tantalizing treasure hunt.

Psychologist Norah MacArthur’s con artist father is about to be released from prison, for his part in a bank robbery gone wrong. With the bank loot still missing some fifteen years after the heist, everyone and their brothers are on the hunt for the treasure and unfortunately, all leads point to Norah.

Not one to be left out, the FBI sends agent Trip Jones to keep an eye on Norah, while simultaneously attempting to find the stash for the bureau. Spending time with Norah proves to be both infuriating and frustrating and possibly, the assignment of a lifetime.

Penny McCall’s signature wit and humor shine through once again in WORTH THE TRIP, the story of two of the most unlikely people to ever be forced into close quarters. Norah seems oblivious to the upcoming circus, that surrounds her father’s release from prison and the hunt for the missing bank loot. Trip is shocked when Norah sees right through his innate charm and good looks. But when the crazies come crawling out of the woodwork, she reluctantly accepts the security that Trip provides her.

The story has good pacing and maintains its sense of mystery and adventure throughout. The minor characters, the persistent reporter, the nosy neighbor and Norah’s publisher among others, keep the humor high and the adventure constant. Romance fans that enjoy a little humor with their adventure, are sure to find WORTH THE TRIP exactly that, worth the trip.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

THE GIFT OF LOVE by Lori Foster, Jules Bennett, Heidi Betts, Ann Christopher, Lisa Cooke, Paige Cuccaro, Gia Dawn & Helenkay Dimon

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date Published: June 1st, 2010
ISBN 978-0-425-23428-0
Contemporary Romance/Anthology
Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


A love of family is the central theme in this anthology by eight wonderful authors. Families come in different shapes and sizes and can mean many things. Within this anthology, the reader is treated to stories that encompass that theme and shows that love between families is universal.

Lori Foster delivers a stirring story of a widower who is raising a learning disabled daughter in For The Love of Wendy.

Heidi Betts delivers a stirring story of comebacks in Skindeep between a burned model and a photographer with an addiction.

Jules Bennett captures a heartfelt story of redemption and love in Ava’s Haven when a teenager’s phone call brings together two former lovers.

Ann Christopher steals the readers’ heart in Atticus Gets A Mommy about a disabled man who thinks the woman he loves needs someone healthy and whole and finds out she just needs him.

In The Redemption of Brodie Grant, Lisa Cooke has the reader melting with a story of one man coming home for his sister’s wedding and finding a love with the groom’s sister.

Paige Cuccaro delivers a paranormal story of werewolves and love with The Wolf Watcher’s Diet.

Gia Dawn captivates in her fantasy story, A Fairy Precious Love, of a fairy who lost her wings and her soul mate. Can a duty bound kind find a way to reconnect with his mate before all is lost?

Helen Kay Daimon delivers a story of love and forgiveness in Second Time Around when a man finds he is falling for his son’s teacher and needs to find a way to have her forgive him for his treatment of her when they were in school.

THE GIFT OF LOVE has different stories and a wide spectrum of genres to appeal to everyone as this collection of authors celebrates love in all its forms. Each story is a little bit different and showcases a form of love, be it a parent/child, former lovers reunited or first love relationship. It was well written and each author delivered a little different take on the many facets of love in this anthology. Some stories had me smiling and giggling while others had me wiping away tears as I flipped the pages. Each story touches on an emotion and leaves you believing in love in its many splendid forms. I loved the many different stories and felt each author delivered a wide spectrum of stories to enjoy.

THE GIFT OF LOVE is one book I found highly enjoyable and have to admit, one I have already read again. Each story resonated with me in some way and kept me glued to the edge of my seat as I flipped the pages. Some stories were a little predictable yet satisfying nonetheless. If you are looking for a feel good story with different forms of love being showcased, then grab THE GIFT OF LOVE. It will truly get you believing in love all over again.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of the book.

DREAMS OF DESIRE by Cheryl Holt

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: December 7, 2010
ISBN: 978-0425239186
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained by Publisher


Phillip Dubois and his charming sister, Clarinda, are back for another foray into the love lives of an unsuspecting couple. This time it is spinster Lilly Lambert and John Middleton, the Earl of Penworth.

An unsuspecting John found himself as the guardian of twins Miranda and Melanie Newton. The eighteen year old wards look sweetly innocent, and for the most part have hidden their peccadilloes from John. Not that it was too difficult to do so. John basically has little use for women, not because he doesn’t like them but he refuses to be led into debauchery in the footsteps of his mother and step-brother, Edward. To that end after searching high and low, investigating the best candidate, he has become engaged to Violet, a simpering eighteen year old with a stellar pedigree. John isn’t marrying Violet because of any great passion. It is, in the norm of the times, a business arrangement.

Lilly comes to her interview as companion to the twins and Violet with the most stellar of recommendations; each one written by Lilly herself. She hasn’t had an easy time finding a position. After having to turn down advances from some rather lascivious employers, she seeks a sedate and secure position. John’s stringent propriety is well known, or at least she thought so.

Moments after meeting the twins, Lilly knows the position is not for her, but John will not take no for an answer. Lilly goes along with his plans but at the same time seeks a way out of her predicament. When she encounters Phillip and Clarinda, despite her incredulity at their Spinster’s Cure love potion, she still hopes for the best and picks a likely candidate to be her one true love. Unfortunately for Lilly, not once, but twice, John positions himself between Lilly and her intended. Before the couple can begin to explore their growing attraction the twins attempt to put an end to Lilly and John has no idea where she is.

I thoroughly enjoyed PROMISE OF PLEASURE and TASTE OF TEMPTATION in Cheryl Holt’s Novel of Sensual Destiny series and was eager to dig into PROMISE OF PLEASURE. While not nearly as good as the first two books in this series, PROMISE OF PLEASURE was an enjoyable read. After the third time of reading John’s mother has been away for thirty years, the repetition of the phrase “three decades” became a bit tedious. The copy I read was an ARC and perhaps during the final edits the phrase was changed or omitted. Lilly was introduced towards the end of TASTE OF TEMPTATION when she purchased her first bottle of the Spinster’s Cure from Phillip. When the segment comes up in PROMISE OF PLEASURE it seemed disjointed with no real sense of continuity. There were a few other areas where continuity seemed to be lacking, almost an “it happened because I said it did” situation rather than the reader being included.

As I neared the end of the book I looked over the publisher’s site and a few other venues to see if there would be more books in the series because I have enjoyed it. With Phillip and Clarinda’s machinations bringing couples together I can only imagine the trouble they could get other characters in to. I hold out hope for more because of what happens with Phillip at the end of the story. It would be a true sense of justice for Clarinda and Phillip to meet their own matches. They are fun secondary characters and a wonderful common thread between the stories.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

A PIRATE’S POSSESSION by Michelle Beattie

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: December 7, 2010
ISBN: 978-0425238202
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained by Publisher


Nate has pretty much kept his past in the past. Its painful memories and sense of loss are tucked away where no one can reach them. Not even his best friend, Vincent, has any idea about the tall, good looking man’s history. One person has a snippet of who he was not so long ago, but even she doesn’t begin to know the full story.

Claire Gentry has been on a quest for a missing piece of a map that will lead her to the greatest pirate treasure of all time. She too has a past best left behind. With a history of those she loves most leaving her, she is determined to find the treasure, believing it will make all right in her world. When Claire finds a lead to the illusive map she bets all she has on winning the parchment in a poker game. She not only loses, but she loses to Nate. At first Nate doesn’t recognize the girl from his past; after all, she is hiding in the guise of a boy. But when he realizes who is on his ship and what she is after, what the couple thought they left behind comes rushing to the fore.

But Claire and Nate aren’t the only ones on the trail of this amazing treasure, a treasure that has been sought for over a hundred years with nary a trace. Those other seekers don’t care who they have to trample on to gain their goal, or who they have to kill.

After reading ROMANCING THE PIRATE, book 2 of Michelle Beattie’s pirate series, I couldn’t wait to dig into book 3, A PIRATE’S POSSESSION. At the end of ROMANCING THE PIRATE I expressed the hope that Vincent and Nate would appear in another story. I was delighted to see Nate’s name on the pages shortly into the story and Vincent’s appearance made it feel like a reunion between myself and two marvelous characters.

Sadly, the witty banter between the two was missing in A PIRATE’S POSSESSION as was any connection I felt to the characters. Claire arrives on the scene, ready to bid on the map, but there is no explanation of how she, or Nate, knew it was up for bid. They fell in love as teens but I didn’t feel a spark between the adult characters.

What turned me off almost completely in the book was what I felt to be the gratuitous death of one of the characters. Of course it created considerable drama for the other characters, but had he lived through a terrible illness they would still have bonded and the door would have been opened for at least one more story in this series, if not two with Nate’s brother in the hero’s role.

There were gaps in the story; the characters did things without seeming to have any reason to. That said, if there is a fourth book I will read it if for no other reason than to catch up with the characters we met in the first two books.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

TASTE OF TEMPATION by Cheryl Holt

A Novel Sensual Destiny
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: June 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23514-0
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained from publisher


Following the death of her beloved father, Harry Hamilton, Helen took her familial duties to heart and has cared for her two younger sisters, Jane and Amelia. Desperate for a job she applies at a brothel to be sold off as a rich man’s mistress. Much to her chagrin, she is bought by Captain Tristan Odell. Despite how handsome and apparently wealthy the captain is, she wants nothing to do with him. You see, he turned her down as a governess for his younger sister, Rose.

The bastard son of the Earl of Hastings, Tristan took to the sea at an early age. When his father dies and leaves instructions to Tristan on the care of his brother Michael who will now be Earl and Rose, the captain sets his course to carry out those wishes. No love was lost on his father, but he does care for his half siblings. During his first encounter with Helen he turns her down as a governess but when he sees the lengths to which she will go for her siblings his better nature comes through and he offers her a job.

Fed, clothed and safe, the Hamilton girls have pretty much everything they could need. Eighteen year old Jane finds Michael Seymour, the young Earl, returns her feelings of attraction. Amelia is thrilled with her new friend Rose. And Helen, well despite her best intentions, she finds a growing attraction for Tristan. While she doesn’t quite believe Phillip DuBois potion is really behind Tristan’s pursuit of her, one cannot be sure.

There is one, or rather two flies in the otherwise blissful ointment: Maud and Miriam Seymour, Tristan’s poor relatives. But relatives they are and a more vindictively meddlesome pair cannot be found.

Cheryl Holt’s TASTE OF TEMPTION is one of the best reads I have partaken of in quite some time. I thoroughly enjoyed her PROMISE OF PLEASURE, book one of her Novel of Sensual Destiny series, but TASTE OF TEMPTON far surpassed that first read in the series by miles. A strongly character driven story, early on I felt as if I knew each one personally. Helen is the embodiment of someone I would like to have as a friend. With Jane I was reminded of my first love. While I am not normally a fan of precocious children, Amelia and Rose were a total delight. They offered a different level of entertainment and I couldn’t wait for their next escapade.

Secondary characters Phillip and Clarinda DuBois are favorites of mine. I was happy to see them in a larger role in a TASTE OF TEMPTATION. Their personalities evolved more giving them more depth. The hints of Clarinda’s parenthood had me hoping for a continuation of this series but at the moment it looks like there will just be the three books: PROMISE OF PLEASURE, TASTE OF TEMPTATION and DREAMS OF DESIRE. While a great series, I for one would like to see more of Phillip and Clarinda, perhaps even finding them the perfect mate. Here’s hoping Ms. Holt extends the series for at least another three books.

I wasn’t very fond of Maud and Miriam. They are the characters you love to hate. Maud was the embodiment of a true cold-hearted bitch. I raged when she wove her lies that broke Helen’s heart. I wanted to reach into the pages and shake her till her teeth chattered. And Tristan! The way Maud twisted his views on Helen had me fuming. Talk about someone with a black heart or one without a heart. That would be Maud. I was a tad disappointed that Helen didn’t get to enjoy Maud’s outcome; but then Helen would not have been Helen if she had.

If you are looking for a fabulous reading gift for a friend, TASTE OF TEMPTATION is a great choice. But you will also want a copy for yourself.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of his book.

ROMANCING THE PIRATE by Michelle Beattie

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: September 1, 2009
ISBN 9780425230855
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewer: Gina
Received from Library


A blow on the head has hidden Alicia Davidson’s memory for the past six years. All she can remember are her parents, Jacob and Anna and how much they loved her. At Jacob’s funeral she sees a dark haired man who neither approaches her nor truly pays his respects, yet something about him stays in his mind. Despite her parents’ attempts to the contrary, Alicia was determined, and did learn, her father’s blacksmith trade. With his passing she sees no reason not to continue the business, despite a dear friend, Charles’ admonition to the contrary along with her Aunt’s stubborn intent to rule Alicia’s life. In a moment of intense grief Alicia finally brings herself to enter her parents’ former room and go through her father’s trunk. Inside she finds two letters, one to a mysterious Blake Merritt and another addressed to her. In the letter to Alicia, Jacob reveals the truth of Alicia’s origins and gives her directions on what she should do to find out about her true parentage.

Blake Merritt proudly calls himself a privateer, not a pirate. He is offended when compared to the pirates that raid the Caribbean and wreck havoc wherever they go. When Alicia turns up, more or less, on his doorstep by stowing away on his ship, he is at first incensed. Slowly but surely, Alicia wends her way into his heart and before long Blake cannot imagine a future without her.

But both have secrets, secrets that could tear apart their relationship before it can truly blossom.

What a difference between Michelle Beattie’s first book, WHAT A PIRATE DESIRES and ROMANCING THE PIRATE. In ROMANCING THE PIRATE the rich and lush textures of the Caribbean come to life. When Ms. Beattie describes Blake’s ship and the feeling of it being underway I could feel the ocean breezes and the clean, crisp air. Likewise when the couple lands on St. Kitts I had a strong feeling of what it would be like to walk those very streets.

I adored the secondary characters, Vincent and Nate and found myself chuckling at their banter. Somewhere along the way I think those two deserve their own story, perhaps as a historical romance comedy.

Normally I find it hard to believe a couple can fall in love in a day or so but the attraction between Alicia and Blake is well done. The author gave Alicia a marvelous personality and I enjoyed how her strength was both internal as well as external. Blake’s own pain was palpable and Alicia’s care for him wonderfully done.

I recommend reading WHAT A PIRATE DESIRES if for no other reason than to meet some of the secondary characters that appear in ROMANCING THE PIRATE. ROMANCING THE PIRATE is a super read that is not to be missed.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

WHAT A PIRATE WANTS by Michelle Beattie

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: December 2008
ISBN: 978-042522493-9
Historical Romance
Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained by gift


A pirate attack on her family sends seventeen year old Samantha Fine along with several of her father’s crew, over the side of their boat and into the sea. They find their way to an island and what appears to be help. However, they end up slaves and one night, the man they thought saved them, rapes Samantha. Before Mr. Grant can attack her a second time she clubs him over the head, grabs her friends and a few other slaves and together they escape. They not only escape, they commandeer one of Grant’s boats and take to the seas, pirates themselves. Under the guise of Sam Steele, Samantha prowls the seas, taking only what she and her crew needs while she plans her revenge on one Dervish, the man who started it all. Some five years later her plan is firmly made but she is missing one thing—someone who actually knows what Dervish looks like.

Rather than hang, Luke Bradley accepts Sam’s assistance to escape his fate and her terms to help her take her revenge on Dervish. A pirate himself, he takes what he wishes and leaves the rest behind. Yet there is something about Sam that calls to a part of him he’d long thought dead. Together they embark on Sam’s quest for Dervish and to right the long ago wrongs he set in motion.

WHAT A PIRATE DESIRES by Michelle Beattie was an easy weekend read. The warmth of the Caribbean was definitely appealing on a chilly fall day, even if it was only in a book. The thought of a tropical drink wasn’t far from my mind.

The book, however, was almost formulaic. I didn’t feel any connection between the characters or with them myself. I could take or leave Luke and Samantha was a disappointment. Ms. Beattie starts off with a great concept of using one villain’s ship to take her revenge on another. It was one of those multi-layered paybacks you can find in one of Alexander Dumas’ marvelous tales. But unlike Dumas’ heroes, at the very end, Sam backs down. Her rational makes sense; it was just a letdown for me. As to my feeling of a formula, a mere few days after meeting Luke, Sam knows she is in love with him We know this because she tells us, not because there is any great passion or warmth between the two. It came across as if they were in love because it’s a romance and they’re supposed to be. When Luke’s own secrets come out Sam is either angry or broken-hearted. Again, we know this because she has told us, not because the characters evoke any emotion.

If you are looking for a quick and easy read without having to think much, just to read for the sheer enjoyment of reading, WHAT A PIRATE DESIRES is a good choice.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

TASTE OF TEMPTATION by Cheryl Holt

Book 2 in series
Publisher: Berkeley Sensation
Date of publishing: June 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-235-14-0
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Helen Hamilton is trying to survive after her parents died, leaving her to raise her two sisters. No money or prospects, Helen tries to find work as a governess for Captain Tristan Odell. Turned away by Tristan, Helen will do whatever it takes to support her family and ends up in a brothel, where she agrees to sell herself as a mistress to a client of wealth and prestige. What she gets is much more than she bargained for. When she is bought by Tristan, both are surprised to feel the sparks fly between them. With the aid of a magical elixir, can Helen find a way to turn the passion that is between her and Tristan into something much more?

First I have to say, I have never read the first book in this trilogy and found this one to be highly enjoyable. I was kind of skeptical after reading the blurb about a magical elixir but it all came together beautifully. A TASTE OF TEMPTATION was highly engrossing, characters were well rounded and the passion scorching hot. I had to laugh at times of how they tried to find a few moments alone together. The author really does a good job in capturing her characters hearts and souls and writes it beautifully.

Helen Hamilton is a spinster woman who has to care for her two siblings. With no money or prospects, Helen is trying to stay off the streets by trying to find a governess job. Alas, the one chance she has doesn’t work out and she finds herself in a brothel selling herself to the highest bidder to become a mistress. Tristan is shocked to see the woman he bought is the same one he denied a governess job to. Passion sparks between them and they embark on an affair that will capture both their hearts as well as danger. I really enjoyed both Tristan and Helen together. They were both a product of their time and though Tristan was arrogant and annoying at times, he came across as very likable after awhile especially as he tried to figure out why he kept thinking of Helen when he was not with her. The characters are very well written and some secondary characters had me in stitches at times. I highly enjoyed the way the dynamics of all the characters came into play throughout the story.

TASTE OF TEMPTATION is one wild, passionate ride from start to finish. I am eager to read the first book, PROMISE OF PLEASURE, to see how the series came about. If you are looking for an enjoyable afternoon reading about rakes, magical elixirs and feisty heroines, then look no further than TASTE OF TEMPTATION. I look forward to reading more of this author’s books in the future.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

CRUSH ON YOU by Christie Ridgway

Three Kisses Series book 1
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: June 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23513-3
Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Alessandra Baci is determined to make her family’s winery’s first wedding go off without a hitch. Piece of cake, right? Of course not….she has had bad luck since her wedding never happened and now to keep a promise to her late father, she enlists the help of bad boy Penn Bennett, a TV star, sibling to the Baci Sister’s biggest rivals and so handsome, he makes Alessandra want to either kill him or jump him. Sparks fly as these two find themselves falling for one another. Can Alessandra begin to believe in happily ever after with her family’s biggest rival?

CRUSH ON YOU is a light-hearted romp that is a perfect autumn afternoon read. Ms. Ridgway delivers a great story that keeps you glued to the edge of your seat, giggling at the antics of the characters and a fast moving storyline. The writing could have been a little tighter though there are a lot of mentions of ‘Groom/bride-to-be’ that got on my nerves a bit after awhile. The characters are multi-dimensional and likable. The secondary characters of Gil and Claire are what stole the book away from Penn and Alessandra in my opinion. They have a secondary romance playing out while Alessandra and Penn bicker and fall for one another. It kept me glued to the pages and made me eager to see what would happen next for those two.

Alessandra and her sisters find out that the family winery is on the edge of financial disaster and unless they can bring in some fresh cash to the business, they may lose it all. Alessandra dreams up a way to drum new business in hosting weddings at the family’s wedding cottage. Called the ‘Nun of Napa’ ever since her fiancée never showed up for their wedding, Alessandra has carried the heartbreak for the last five years. When she meets Penn Bennett, she finds herself equally smitten and annoyed with the man. Penn is the host of the hot TV show, Build Me Up, and when he comes home for a spell, he finds himself smitten with Alessandra. Neither looking for anything permanent, can these two find a way to let past ghosts lie in the past and move on to a future that can be full of romance and love? These two are fire and ice together. I love how Penn was able to call Alessandra on items in the book that she did to him and Alessandra learns a few things as well. They are well written and kept my interest through the book.

CRUSH ON YOU is a fun read that will leave you wanting more. I have never read this author before and found this latest book to be a perfect story for when I want a ‘laugh out loud, cheering for them’ story with unforgettable characters. Almost makes me want to check out Napa Valley to see if I could find a Hollywood hottie of my own. If you enjoy light-hearted romance, than this is a perfect story for you. I cannot wait for the next Baci sisters story hopefully coming soon.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

AWAKENED BY A KISS by Lila DiPasqua

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: August 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23556-0
Historical Romance
Trade Sized Paperback
Reviewed by Susan
Obtained by Publisher


AWAKENED BY A KISS contains three highly erotic stories based on the following fairytales: “Sleeping Beauty”, “Puss in Boots” and “Little Red Riding Hood”.

Sleeping Beau: Adrien d’Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain was awakened by a kiss and what followed has been seared into his memory. The mysterious woman disappears and he has never located her again. Charlotte, his sister asks him to seduce Catherine de Villecourt away from her lover. It only takes a look but Adrien realizes he has found his mystery woman.

Adrien and Catherine make a powerful couple. Adrien is an alpha male and Catherine is his prey. These two could ignite a fire anywhere as their desires surges out of control. This was my favorite of the three stories.

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac’s mission is to find the author of some scandalous stories about the courtiers surrounding the King. He believes the author is residing with his grandmother. Unfortunately, there are three sisters to choose from and he must find the culprit.

Anne and Nicolas are hiding something from each other but they find that love can conquer all. Anne is smart and feisty. Nicolas is very much an alpha male ready to tame his woman. They have great chemistry and light up the pages together.

Bewitching In Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel is a woman who is used to getting what she wants and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier. Tristan has left his position as commander of the King’s guards due to an injury but Elisabeth still sees a man worth having.

Tristan is physically a broken man but he isn’t wallowing in self-pity. Elisabeth does whatever she can to help the man she loves. She is truly a woman that could move a mountain if she had to. It was lovely to watch this couple as they truly do complete each other.

AWAKENED BY A KISS takes three well-known fairy tales and gives them a highly erotic twist. All three stories were enjoyable, featuring likable couples and strong storylines. There is plenty of character development and readers will not feel short changed by the length of the stories.


This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

BOND’S OF JUSTICE by Nalini Singh

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: July 1020
ISBN: 978-0-425-23544-7
Paranormal Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Pam
Obtained from Publisher


The Psy world is changing and human cop Max Shannon, has no way of climbing higher in their power structure. He’s very surprised to be given the case of a murdered Psy Councilor, with a Psy J partner. Max is surprised to find himself enjoying her company but he hadn’t expected a cold Psy J to turn him on.

Justice Psy, Sophia Russo has been told to work with Max, despite the fact she’s on the verge of a meltdown even after undergoing conditioning. It was the last type of case she’d been expecting to work on. Her mind is filled with evil nightmares from the cases she’s handled, but Max somehow seems to help keep her focused. Sophia is determined to keep going and bring an evil killer to justice.

BONDS OF JUSTICE is an intriguing story and very different to the previous books about the Psy-Changeling world. The main characters are easy for the reader to bond with, in this well written tale of murder and espionage. Long held alliances begin to change in the world Ms. Singh has so skillfully built, as councilors try to eliminate those who stand in their way. They try to control the Web while bringing Silence to the Psy, whether they are ready, want it or not. Nikita tries to stop the zealots and also pulls out a hat trick. As in all the previous stories the characters all have interesting goals, producing a story filled with intense action and intrigues. I’m sure anyone who has read any of the previous books in the series will look forward to this one.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

STORMWALKER by Allyson James

Book 1in Janet Begay series
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: May 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23469-3
Paranormal Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Janet Bagay has issues and a power that she is finally able to harness. A stormwalker, she is able to harness the power of thunderstorms and it fuels her magic in at times deadly proportions. The only thing that helps is her boyfriend, Mick-or ex-boyfriend in this case. She doesn’t know who or what he is even after being with him, learning how to harness the elemental power inside her but after five years apart, he blows back into her life and all hell breaks loose-literally. Coming back to Magellan, Arizona for a missing person’s case leads Janet to face her biggest fear-her mother, an immortal goddess herself and one bent on having Janet and her powers no matter what. Now Janet and Mick have to venture to a place where humans can’t survive and if they don’t work together, then neither will survive.

STORMWALKER is an introduction to a new and wildly entertaining series from talented Allyson James. I have to admit this was one series I was unsure of. A heroine who had elemental powers that needed a storm to fuel it was intriguing and Ms. James pulls it off in the debut book. I loved how she shows us what happened to make Mick and Janet part, Janet’s vulnerability and the way she falls for Mick all over again when he rides to her rescue in the beginning. Intriguing characters, an intricate storyline that keeps the reader glued to the edge of their seat and a few plot twists that leave you shouting “OH MY GOD!!”

Meet Janet Bagay, a Native American who is a Stormwalker, and a person whose powers are fueled by the thunderstorms that pound the earth. The only person who can stop the power from burning her out is her ex-boyfriend-sexy, aggravating as sin, Mick, a fire walker. When she returns to Magellon, she finds she has to face her biggest fears while trying to solve a missing person’s case-her powerful evil mother. A woman bent on having Janet and her powers regardless of the cost. Dang it all, I fell for Janet and Mick the minute they walked upon the pages. Janet is still innocent even as she faces demons, wraiths and other baddies her mother sends her way. Mick is a bad boy, motorcycle driving man who keeps Janet on her toes even as he hides secrets from her that cause her to not fully trust him. Both are wonderfully well written and the secrets Mick holds had me wondering just what was in his background he didn’t want Janet to know about. Some wonderful secondary characters had me chuckling and kept the story flowing smoothly.

STORMWALKER is a tightly written, action packed story that will knock you on your bum, leaving you eager for more. With each page, you are sucked into Janet’s world and I can honestly say I so want to be this girl’s friend. If you haven’t picked up the newest book in the paranormal genre, then grab STORMWALKER. It is one that will keep you highly entertained and glued till the very end. I am eager to see what happens next for Janet in the next installment hopefully coming soon.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of the book.

STRAIGHT UP by Deidre Martin

Publisher: Berkeley Sensation
Date published: May 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23466-2
Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Liam O’Brien has raced out of New York City after a run in with the Irish Mob there. Now back in Ireland, he weathers the storm of that run-in in his parent’s old village of Ballycraig as a bartender. Not looking for trouble, Liam finds something much more fun-Aislinn McCafferty.

Aislinn McCafferty has had her heart broken once before and she is determined to never have it happen again. Considered the local ice queen, Aislinn shoots down any man who thinks he has a chance with her. Liam finds himself taking a bet that he can get Aislinn to thaw and he ends up finding that Aislinn is more than just a bet but a woman he can fall in love with. Can Aislinn forgive Liam once the truth comes out? Will Liam walk away from the one woman who stirs his every desire?

STRAIGHT UP is a wonderful battle of the sex’s story with two intriguing characters and a setting that has me wishing to go visit Ireland myself. The storyline is fast with some interesting twists to keep me glued to the pages and I hoped Liam could soften Aislinn’s heart. With the right blend of humor, romance and desire, Ms. Martin delivers a story that will leave you with a smile long after the last page is read.

Meet Aislinn, the local ice queen in the village of Ballycraig. Humiliated in the past by a man she adored, she is determined to never fall for a man’s charm again. When she meets Liam O’Brien sparks fly and she finds herself falling for the man’s charm even as she tries to keep her heart unaffected. Liam had to run from New York City due to the local Irish Mob there after him. Thinking the time spent in Ballycraig would be boring, he finds feisty and standoffish Aislinn delightful. When issued a bet by his boss to thaw the ice queen, he eagerly accepts never knowing that he might actually win her heart in the process. Will Aislinn find out about the bet and will she trust Liam after it comes out again? Will Liam lose the one woman who stole his heart? These two struck sparks the minute they met. I loved the way the author captured the characters vulnerabilities and the way their hearts are. The romance between the two is very believable and I enjoyed the way Aislinn made Liam work while both fell for one another.

STRAIGHT UP is an enjoyable story that you will fall in love with. With tight writing, captivating characters and a fast paced storyline, Ms. Martin delivers a story that will keep you glued to the pages till the very end. Ms. Martin is fast becoming one of my favorite authors in contemporary romance.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER by Veronica Wolff

Publisher: Berkeley Sensation
Date published: August 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23627-7
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained via Publisher


As a child, Cormac MacAlpin suffered a devastating loss. What started out as a game between his twin and their closest friend, turned into a living nightmare that he never woke up from. In fact, the nightmare returns when Marjorie Keith ventures to his home with news that another child has been stolen. Cormac is determined not to become involved. When he looks at Marjorie all he sees is more loss and grief. Despite his best efforts to turn her away, his family rallies behind her and before long he finds himself journeying with her to rescue the young boy named Davey.

Every step of the way he berates himself for the loss of his twin and for not being the man Marjorie needs in her life. Yet time and again she thwarts his attempts to have her move on with her life and not try to rescue the ginger-haired boy named Davey. And Marjorie isn’t about to be left behind. She has her own demons to overcome from the long ago day and will not rest until the young boy is returned. When they finally find him, the price may be too high. Two people, drawn to each other with entwined emotions and lives. Each with their own fears and lack of self-worth. Can they find their way back to each other before they lose the love of a lifetime?

In an Author’s note Ms. Wolff warns her readers that DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER isn’t going to make purists happy. She speaks more to Dunnottar Castle where Cormac’s family resides, but it is a good notation for the entire story. While billed as an historical romance, DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER could take place in any time period. Aside from brief clothing descriptions, it could be a contemporary, futuristic, romantic suspense or fall pretty much into any historical period. Granted, elements of the subject matter lend themselves to Scotland of the mid-1600’s, but in terms of the crime committed, issues of child abuse and a couple solving a mystery, it could happen at any point in time. I was thrown off any number of times by modern day, colloquial expressions such as electricity running through the hero or the heroine using “tough love.” Other expressions we hear in every day modern society were sprinkled throughout the book. If you aren’t a fan of historicals, you can still enjoy the story because it could fit in any era.

I didn't find Marjorie very appealing and had a difficult time relating to her. She became annoying in her refusal to take no for an answer and rather than her coming across as a strong heroine she came across as irritating.

On the other hand, the story is mild enough that pretty much any age group could enjoy it as a read and it would be an excellent introduction to romance novels to a teenage daughter.

What makes the story worthwhile is the author’s own emotional investment in the story. She feels passionately about the plight of children in the 1600’s, those that were kidnapped and sold into slavery, those whose family could or would do nothing for them. While DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER addresses one form of abuse, the fact that children have been victimized since time began and still are, is brought home in the telling. More than anything, DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER is a glimpse into Ms. Wolff’s compassion to an abused child’s plight.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

MASTER OF FIRE by Angela Knight

Mageverse series
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: March 2010
ISBN: 978-0425233351
Vampire Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Valerie
Obtained via publisher


Giada Shepherd is not only a brilliant chemist, she is an immortal witch. She has been sent by immortal vampire, King Arthur, to protect his son Logan MacRoy. Logan is a forensic chemist who investigates drug crimes, arson and bombings. If he knew that Giada was a witch and had been sent to protect him, he would send her packing. Yes, he is a proud man. But Logan and Gia have to team up to capture a bomber. They are highly attracted to each other, but Gia has been ordered not to have sex with Logan. Having sex with him could turn him into a vampire and he has, in no uncertain terms said that he will turn when he is ready. But things are going to hell in a basket and the truth must be revealed. Love could be the weapon that defeats a powerful enemy.

This is an absolutely fantastic book. I had to read it in two sessions and was very hard pressed to put it down. It is a book that will stay on my keeper shelf and I will certainly pick it up again to read. I loved Logan and Gia. They were so perfect for each other. Although sometimes I felt like hitting Logan over the head, he is a drool-worthy hunk of a man that I wouldn’t mind having around myself. Ms Knight writes a fast-paced story that holds you captive and leaves you breathless from the first page. Her characters are multi-dimensional, the dialogue is snappy and the secondary characters give the story life and depth and add some humor. I have found out that there are more stories in this series and you can bet that I am running, not walking, to get the other books in this series.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

LADY ISABELLA’S SCANDALOUS MARRIAGE by Jennifer Ashley

Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Date published: July 2010
ISBN: 978-042523545-4
Historical Romance
Paperback (ARC)
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained via: Publisher


Swept off her feet and down the aisle at her debut ball, Lady Isabella MacKenzie found adventure and love with her husband, Mac MacKenzie. At the end of three years of marriage, however, she packed her bags and left.

The third in age of the four MacKenzie brothers, all with their own wild and crazy streak, Mac has never stopped loving his wife, Isabella. Even through the fog of his drunken despair with Isabella’s departure he knows she is his one true love and the only woman for him. He will do anything to bring his wife back into his life and puts aside his drink and after an agonizing withdrawal period becomes a devoted tea-totaler. What he finds though, is that he can no longer paint. Oh he goes through the motions, but his art is nothing like the emotion evoking paintings he crafted with Isabella by his side. And then one day, she appears at his door.

No, she hasn’t returned to reunite in wedding bliss. Rather, something odd has happened, something disturbingly odd – someone is forging Mac’s signature on paintings that are so like his that even his signature yellow paint is used. The situation takes a nasty turn when the forgerer turns to arsonist and sets fire to Mac’s house.

I very much enjoyed the second in Jennifer Ashley’s MacKenzie brother series, LADY ISABELLA’S SCANDALOUS MARRIAGE almost as much as I enjoyed book 1, The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie. I did have a bit of a time remembering the title, but it worked with Mac’s story. You can’t help but fall in love with the MacKenzie brothers and it was good to catch up with Ian, Hart and Cameron as Mac’s story unfolded. After reading Mac’s story and his personal struggles it seems Ms. Ashley is tackling societal ills or wrongs and through intensely told love stories bringing the struggles of those with these issues to light. The word “autistic” was not used for Ian yet he demonstrated many of the behaviors of a high functioning autistic. Mac’s struggle is with alcohol and its devastating effect on those an alcoholic loves. There are hints of Cameron and Hart’s struggles as the pages unfold. It also seems that there is a bit more steam to the love scenes in each book and readers are tantalized by passing phrases regarding Hart and his sex life. Ms Ashley certainly knows how to lure in and seduce her readers!

At times Mac’s painting apparel became a tad repetitive and I wasn’t fully satisfied with the forger’s explanation and outcome. I felt like the thread was dropped just when a fulfilling explanation was just around the corner. Perhaps those answers will be found in Cameron or Hart’s stories.

LADY ISABELLA’S SCANDALOUS MARRIAGE is a stand-alone story and events leading up to it from The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie are well done. They add to the fullness of this story. I would recommend reading them in order; neither is a do not miss read.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.