JUST LIKE ME, ONLY BETTER by Carol Snow

Publisher: Berkley Publishing
Date published: April 2010
ISBN: 978-0-425-23248-4
Contemporary
Trade Sized Paperback
Reviewed by Tina
Received from the publisher


They say everyone has a twin somewhere in the world. For Veronica it’s truer than she ever imagined. Veronica’s husband has left her and moved on to someone new, leaving her to pick up the pieces of her life. Just when she thinks life couldn’t get any worse everyone is mistaking her for the celebrity Haley Rush.

When Haley’s manager happens upon Veronica he has an offer she can’t refuse. More money than she knows what to do with just for pretending to be Haley. How hard can it be? Great clothes, parties and Brady Ellis, Haley’s boyfriend are all at her disposal. As she gets to know Haley, she sees sides of her people don’t see. There’s vulnerability there.

Will life be better walking in someone else’s shoes or will Veronica crave her old life again?

Carol Snow is a new author to me, but not for long. I loved this book. From the first few pages, I was sucked in. I couldn’t stop reading because I needed to know what would happen when Veronica stepped into Haley’s life. JUST LIKE ME, ONLY BETTER was full of humor, tears, and self-esteem issues. The best part was it was real. Yes, I know it’s fiction, but personally I could see this happening to someone. The cast of characters were varied, but I was still curious about each of their lives. I’d love to see a book with the hairdresser in the future. LOL
I highly recommend JUST LIKE ME, ONLY BETTER to anyone who loves romantic comedy. This is a keeper. I’m going to devour all of Ms. Snow’s books.

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

TALK DIRTY TO ME by Inez Kelley and Ginny Glass

Publisher: Carina Press Date published: July 2010 ISBN 978-1-4268-9042-0 Contemporary Erotic E-book Reviewed by Tina Received from the publisher CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE! Nora has found herself in a jam. She’s supposed to be writing a dissertation and has lost her notes containing other women’s sexual fantasies. If that isn’t enough hers were in the notes too. Now it seems someone by the name of James has found them and he’s only willing to give them a few at time if Nora agrees to talk dirty with him. The biggest problem she has is she’s attracted to a professor Jarod Reed. Nora finds herself torn between the two men. Both offer something completely different yet, intriguing. Jarod never expected a simple call to Nora to turn into something erotic. Yet he can’t stop calling or pretending to be someone else. As the need to touch Nora grows inside, Jarod struggles with a decision – come clean and risk losing her or never tell her his true identity. TALK DIRTY TO ME was another winner in the Dirty Laundry series. Jarod pulled me in immediately. He was an underdog in my mind, but one that deserved to find a woman who would care for him and appreciate him. It took me a little longer to make up my mind about Nora. While, I understood her hesitations to offer Jarod more than coffee dates in public places, I wanted to her be daring. I wanted her to go for what she wanted. It was nice to see her unwind with James. Letting go of her inhibitions was the highlight of her character. I would recommend TALK DIRTY TO ME to anyone who enjoys erotic romance. Ms. Glass and Ms. Inez did a fantastic job as a writing team. I personally couldn’t tell it was written by two people. I look forward to reading more from both authors. This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

COMING CLEAN by Inez Kelley

Publisher: Carina Press
Date published: August 2010
ASIN B003U89S8O
Contemporary Erotic
E-book
Reviewer: Tina
Received from the publisher


Have you ever wanted more out your marriage? That missing link you know will be the icing on the cake? That’s the way Vivi Michaelson feels. She loves her husband dearly, but she longs to have one of her fantasies come true. She wants Grant’s best friend Cade to share their bed. She doesn’t want him all for herself. She yearns to watch him and Grant love each other.

Grant and Cade have been best friends since they were young kids. Cade is bi-sexual and has lusted over Grant forever. Vivi isn’t so bad herself. When Grant asks Cade to fulfill Vivi’s fantasy, he thinks it’s a one-time deal. When they ask him for more will he be able to be the third wheel in a marriage so strong?

Inez Kelley is a new author to me, but I must admit I really enjoyed this book. From the first few pages, I was drawn into each of their lives. COMING CLEAN was an emotion-packed book, full of humor, sex and laundry. The trio of characters had me rooting for their success in finding a happily ever after from the beginning, each pulling at my heartstrings throughout the book. The tension and love between Grant and Cade is evident, as is the love between Grant and Vivi. I read the first book in the series and while I liked it, I preferred this one over the other.

I highly recommend COMING CLEAN to anyone who loves erotic romance. I’m looking forward to reading more from Ms. Kelley.

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

SECOND TIME AROUND by Beth Kendrick

Publisher: Bantam Books
Date published: March 2010
ISBN: 978-0-385-34224-7
Contemporary
Paperback
Reviewer by Tina
Received from the publisher


What would you do if someone left you a large sum of cash? Would you start your life over? A group of English majors who all became best friends during college do exactly that – years later.

When one of them dies, she leaves the other four one million dollars to split. There’s a catch. They must use the money to go after their dream jobs. No more wishing, it’s time to make it reality.

Cait, Brooke, Anna and Jamie embark on this journey of discovery together. From opening a bed and breakfast, baking designer cakes, planning weddings and writing a book they’ll all try to figure out if it’s really better the SECOND TIME AROUND. While they leave the professional world behind, secrets will threaten each woman’s dreams.

Beth Kendrick is a new author to me, but I must admit I loved this book. From the first few pages, I was drawn in to each of the character’s lives. SECOND TIME AROUND was an emotion-packed book, full of humor, tears, and yes, even intrigue. The cast of characters had me rooting for their success from the get-go. Each pulled at my heartstrings throughout the book. Even the secondary characters pulled me in. In fact there’s one character, Trish that I’d love to see a book based around in the future.

I highly recommend SECOND TIME AROUND to anyone who loves women’s fiction with a touch of romance. This is a keeper, especially for those who have a group of dear friends. I’m looking forward to reading more from Ms. Kendrick.

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

REMEMBER ME by Sophie Kinsella

Publisher: The Dial Press, a division of Random House, Inc.
Date published: November 2008
ISBN 978-0-385-33873-8
Contemporary
Trade Sized Paperback
Obtained via publisher
Reviewed by Tina



Imagine waking up and the last three years of your life are a blank. The last thing you remember was falling into the street, while you were walking. That’s what happened to Lexi Smart. She’s woken up to find that she can’t remember the last three years of her life. If that wasn’t bad enough they’re telling her she got into an accident driving. She doesn’t drive.

Things are totally different. She’s got a whole different life. She’s the big boss, her friends have changed and the biggest surprise is she’s married. This was definitely not the life she remembers. If all these changes weren’t enough to cause her fear, Jon, her husband’s best friend is claiming she’s in love with him, not Eric.

She’s being pulled into many different directions and doesn’t know what the truth is. Can she remember the past before she makes a decision that could ruin her life permanently?

Sophie Kinsella is a new author to me, but I must admit I loved this book. From the first few pages, I was sucked in needing to know what would happen to Lexi. REMEMBER ME was full of humor, tears, intrigue and sexual chemistry. The cast of characters pulled me in and made me curious about each of their lives.

The thing that stuck me most about the writing of this story was Ms. Kinsella never let her heroine get defeated. She faced each and every issue presented to her. No matter how absurd or frightening, Lexi faced it head-on.

While her husband was a stick in the mud, I couldn’t help but laugh at how he ran his life by the book – literally. John, the one claiming they were having an affair is a totally delectable.

I highly recommend REMEMBER ME to anyone who loves romantic comedy. This is a keeper. I’m going to devour all of Ms Kinsella’s books.


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

CLOSE RELATIONS by Susan Isaacs

Publisher: Avon
Date published: August 2009
ISBN 978-0-06-173531-8
Contemporary
Trade Paperback
Reviewed by Tina
Obtained via Publisher


Marcia Green loves her life. She’s a successful political speechwriter, maybe one of the best around. While she loves her family she’s constantly reminded that she’s thirty-five, divorced and living with someone who doesn’t live up to her Jewish family’s standards. Oh and let’s not forget she’s childless.

Her family wants a different life for her; preferably a dentist or doctor and they’ll even consider meddling, for her own sake of course.

Just when she thinks she has everything she’s always wanted in walks Harvard educated David Hoffman. He’s Mr. Perfect. Oh and lets not forget he’s rich! Now Marcia wants to run – fast and far away. If her family finds out they might stalk him.

As David grows closer to her family will Marcia too?

CLOSE RELATIONS – I wish I could say I enjoyed this book. As a reviewer and reader if I’m not hooked by page five I get worried. When I reach page fifty and still haven’t found anything interesting about the book - I just want to shove it in a drawer and find something new. I didn’t. I continued until the last page hoping something would grab me. It didn’t. I wasn’t wowed.

Unfortunately, in my mind Ms. Isaacs bored me with the repetitive political information overload. The stereotypical Jewish family is a tired plot and made the heroine unlikable and weak in my opinion. If Ms. Isaacs added a twist to the plot or character it might have made CLOSE RELATIONS a more interesting read.

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

BITTERSWEET by Maura Anderson

Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press
Date published: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60168-234-5
M/M Erotic Romance
E-bookReviewed by Tina Snyder
Obtained via publisher



CLICK TO PURCHASE! Brandon may not be lucky in love, but he knows how to make tasty treats from chocolate. His chocolate represents the love and sex he’s given up on. Hired to make naughty treats for a bachelorette party, Brandon is intrigue, yet put off by the man who is sent to pick up the treats.

Serving as the man of honor for his best friends wedding, David is tasked with the duties of picking up the tempting treats for the party. When he learns the man who makes the luscious treats is gay he wants nothing more than to nibble on the owner.

David has his work cut out for him if he’s going to convince gay chocolatier Brandon that he is worthy of love. Brandon is stubborn, but David has faith in his ability to convince this hard-head otherwise.

I have to admit I really enjoyed BITTERSWEET. When I picked up the book I was ready for the same ole, same ole M/M romance, but I’m pleased Ms. Anderson surprised me.
Her creation of Brandon, a hero who felt he’d hit rock bottom in the love department was spot on. I was gripped by this character from the first page and wanted him to find love, so badly. His cockiness was, at times a little overboard, but as a reader I could sympathize with him.
Ms. Anderson’s secondary characters were a hoot and I enjoyed the female touch to the story.
David’s character was very compelling. He was funny, smart and not afraid of being rejected. Overall this story was a fun read and one I’d recommend if you like M/M romances.
I’ve added Ms. Anderson to my must read authors list!

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

UNRAVELED by Jaci Burton

Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Date published: December 2008
ISBN 978-1-60504-248-0
Contemporary Romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina




CLICK TO PURCHASE! Mitch Magruder has never heard the word no, until Greta Mason walked into his life. Mitch wants Greta’s ocean side Florida motel so he can tear it down and build one of his luxury hotels. But Greta flat out refuses. She isn’t about to give in to anyone, including sexy Mitch. She loves her motel and all the hard work that comes along with it.

Suddenly, Greta finds Mitch has wormed his way into her kid’s hearts, with surfing lessons and lightened workloads. But Greta has to question his motives as he cozies up to her children. Is he just using her children to get closer to her? Is he wining and dining her to get her to agree to sell the motel or are his intentions sincere?

UNRAVELED is a bittersweet romance. Ms. Burton lures you into the heroine’s story immediately. Her fight to keep her family motel will pull at your heartstrings. She’s a strong, hard-working, single mother, just trying to make ends meet. As a reviewer I just loved Greta!

Mitch is sexy, charismatic and determined. He’s never been told no and I love how Ms. Burton puts him in his place with the feisty Greta. She’s definitely his equal in so many ways. When they get together they heat up the pages. The chemistry is undeniable.

UNRAVELED is the perfect beach or anytime read. It’s a page-turner. This reviewer has read Ms. Burton in the past and has yet to be disappointed. Hats off to another great book!

VOICES AND LIES Hard Rock Seduction by Tonya Ramagos

Publisher: Siren Publishing Date published: February 2009 ISBN: 1-60601-315-7 Contemporary Erotic Romance E-book Reviewed by Tina CLICK TO PURCHASE! Alicia Addison has accepted a marriage proposal from a man she doesn’t want to marry. Accept might be too harsh a word…he asked and she never answered. He just assumed it was a yes. Now she has to figure out a way to get out of the engagement. Luck is on her side, he has to go out of town for business, leaving her time to get out of this mess. When her sister asks to her to run the bed and breakfast Alicia agrees. Much to her surprise Derek Kadin, her biggest crush shows up at the B&B. A vacation affair turns into more than either expects, but their secrets threaten to tear them apart. Will Alicia and Derek find their happily ever after? Okay, I have to say upfront, I loved VOICES AND LIES. And I fell in love with Derek Kadin. Ms. Ramagos has created two characters with so much to lose and everything to gain. She grips the reader from the first paragraph and keeps you hooked right to the end. VOICES AND LIES is the first book in the Hard Rock Seduction series and this reviewer can’t wait to get her fingers on the next. If you like rock and roll and are a sucker for romance, then VOICES AND LIES is a book for you. So go ahead and grab your copy today. You won’t regret it. Just remember to keep a fan handy, because you’re going to need something to cool you off. Alicia and Derek’s journey will leave you breathless!

DJINN AND TONIC by Ashlyn Chase

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Date published: April 2009
Paranormal Erotica Romance
ISBN: 978-1-4199-2104-9
Paranormal Erotica Romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina




CLICK TO PURCHASE! When Misty and Justin are fired from a TV show in New York City, Misty comes up with a brilliant idea to start their own show. Justin isn’t fully on board with Misty’s ideas. Misty isn’t taking no for an answer and finally convinces him it’s the perfect idea. Justin might not like Misty’s ideas, but he’s enjoying the hot sex they’re having, now that they don’t have to hide their feelings for each other any longer.

After an evening out at their favorite Chinese restaurant and a few too many drinks they stumble upon a drunk who trades spare change for an old bottle for Justin’s coat. During a heated moment, Misty knocks over the bottle releasing a Genie. Life takes more turns then either is ready for. They’re suddenly thrown into their own show, guided by the Genie. Not only is he helping them, he’s enjoying watching their hot sex life.

But will three wishes be all they ever dreamed of or nothing but a nightmare?



This reviewer loves Ashlyn Chase’s books and was not disappointed with DJINN AND TONIC. Ms. Chase delivers a humorous story with red hot sex. Misty and Justin’s chemistry rolls from page to page in this quickie.

The Genie is unlike any Genie you’ll ever read about. He’s a feisty character with a few flaws that will leave you wondering what he’ll cook up next. DJINN AND TONIC has an interesting twist to it and I found myself reading word after word just to find out if they’d find success with a new show or be sabotaged by the Genie. I also had to know if they would get their happily ever after or would their stubbornness for success get in their way of true love.

I don’t know about anyone else, but I found myself wishing for a genie after reading this comedy! The only disappointment was this book was a quickie!

DJINN AND TONIC is a must read for anyone who loves erotica. I look forward to future books from Ms. Chase.

BEDTIME FOR BONSAI by Elaine Fox

Publisher: Avon Books
Date published: December 2008
ISBN: 978-0-06-147464-4
Romantic Comedy
Paperback
Reviewed by Tina




What’s a girl to do when she can’t have the baby she’s longing for? Get a puppy. And that’s exactly what Penelope Porter does. Only her dog doesn’t seem to want to stick around long enough to get to know his new owner. He prefers the likes of bad boy Dylan Mersey, who owns a shop across the street from Penelope.

Penelope can’t deny she’s attracted to this bad boy with a checkered past, but she’s trying to reconcile with her ex-husband, Glenn. She’s sure Glenn is ready to renew their relationship and settle down. And she secretly hopes for that baby she still wants.

Will Penelope’s dog be a matchmaker for her and Dylan or will she fall back into Glenn’s arms?

BEDTIME FOR BONSAI is one hilarious book. Ms. Fox has two irresistible characters whose chemistry burns up the pages. From the moment they meet, the sparks fly between Penelope and Dylan, even if Penelope doesn’t want to admit it. But there’s the ex waiting in the wings. This reviewer screamed with frustration a few times at the mere thought of Penelope reuniting with her ex.
When Dylan and Penelope finally have sex, talk about hot off the press. They were combustible.

Secondary characters? They’re plentiful and just as enjoyable as the main character. When Dylan and Glenn become friends who jog together I kept waiting for them to figure out they liked the same woman.

This reviewer couldn’t get enough of BEDTIME FOR BONSAI. If you like romantic comedy, don’t miss out on this irresistible read.

BAD BOYS, BAD BOYS by Mia Watts

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing
Date published: March 2009
ISBN 978-1-907010-07-1
M/M erotic romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina



CLICK TO PURCHASE! Geo Wilson isn’t gay, so why is he having dreams about his partner Mack? During a drunken stupor Geo kisses Mack. To make matters worse, when Mack brings him home, he tackles him giving him pleasure he never imagined.
Mack isn’t gay either. So why did he enjoy Geo’s touches and that kiss? The partners can’t seem to keep their hands off each other during stakeouts. This could spell trouble for their careers, when they lose sight of a suspect. Their boss isn’t happy but is willing to give them a second chance. Will this newfound fondness for each other be the end of their professional lives and where will it leave their friendship?

Whew! If you’re into M/M then I must say Ms. Watts is your writer. BAD BOYS, BAD BOYS keeps you wondering what they’re gonna do about their attraction for one another. I found myself drawn to Geo from the moment he sat on the barstool. Following him while he battled the demons of his attraction for another man, was a must for me.
The way Ms. Watts weaves a tale of romance and adds a hint of suspense had this reviewer looking for all her books. BAD BOYS, BAD BOYS won’t leave you disappointed. Dubbed ‘the twins’ in the book, Geo and Mack both share the same looks and are very manly.
BAD BOYS BAD BOYS is a quick read, but it will leave you craving more. This reviewer highly recommends this book for lovers of M/M erotica.

CLAIMED BY DARKNESS by Mia Watts

Publisher: Ellora's Cave
Date published: March 2009
ISBN 9781419920325
Shapeshifter M/M Erotica Romance
Reviewed by Tina



CLICK TO PURCHASE! For twelve years Vampire Damien and Dr. Wolfrik, aka, Rik Usher have been best friends. During their friendship they’ve tried to contain their attractions for each other, because of a foretold prophesy. Damien has suspected Rik is the Keeper, prophet of the vampires and werewolves, the savoir of the vampire race. It’s believed he will find a way to unite the two species. When a wolf bites Rik they must race against time to find a cure. Through a war friendships will be tested. Each fights for dominance in and out of the bedroom. Will their sexual relationship strengthen their friendship or hurt it?

Okay, this book is hot, hot, hot. On a few occasions my mouth dropped. From the first page, Ms. Watts grabs the reader into the world of Rik and Damien. CLAIMED BY DARKNESS is full of action, suspense and red-hot sex. The chemistry between Rik and Damien is undeniable. Reading CLAIMED BY DARKNESS is highly recommended, just having something cold to cool you off!
Ms. Watts knows how to keep a reader on the edge of their seat, waiting to see if Rik will find a cure.

I’m happy to say there will be a second book to CLAIMED BY DARKNESS, so to all you readers who read this one, you won’t be disappointed. This reviewer can’t wait for the sequel. Ms. Watts is on my list of up and coming authors to watch for!

GOOD LUCK by Whitney Gaskell

Publisher: Bantam Discovery
Date published: November 2008
ISBN 978-0-553-59151-4
Romantic Comedy
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Tina


How would you define GOOD LUCK? The only luck Lucy Parker has is bad. In one day she loses her job, catches her boyfriend doing the nasty in their bed and hits the lottery.

They say money can’t buy you happiness and Lucy Parker might just be living proof. Fed up with her current life she escapes to Palm Beach with an old college buddy, where she changes her appearance. She goes from plain Jane to swan and two men are vying for her attention. But she isn’t sure who to trust. One guy gives off the impression he’s a gigolo and the other maybe too good to be true.
She’s enjoying the high life, spending money freely. But soon learns she can’t run away from her past and exactly who her true friends are.

GOOD LUCK is a hilarious story. Yes, it has its emotional lows and Lucy must face problems to grow, but Ms. Gaskell is a very talented writer. When it rains it pours for this heroine. Ms. Gaskell engages the reader from the first page and keeps you hooked until you reach the end. This reviewer couldn’t put the book down.

The secondary characters are plentiful. From Lucy’s sister who longs for nothing more than a wedding fit for a princess, to her out of work college buddy looking to help Lucy find her new self. And her best friend back home that wants nothing to do with her newfound riches.

The men, well, lets just say they are sexy. Personally this reviewer routed for a happy ending for Lucy and Mal. If you want to find out if she has a happily ever after you’ll just have to read the book! I highly recommend you pick up your copy of GOOD LUCK today. As for this reviewer I’ve started on Ms. Gaskell’s backlist! Happy Reading.

Hot wicked and wild by Desiree Holt

Publisher Ellora's Cave
Date published October 2008
ISBN 1-4199-1734-9
Contemporary Erotic Romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina



CLICK TO PURCHASE! Talk about having a bad day. Tracie Hill’s losing the boss she loves since he’s sold the company, her pantyhose have ripped and she’s trying to get her office and work in order before the new boss, dubbed the tyrant, comes in – when the power goes out. Not only has the power gone out a gorgeous stranger is trapped inside with her.

Pete Montgomery has been searching for the perfect mate – submissive in the bedroom and feisty in the boardroom. When he gets locked in with Tracie life takes an unexpected turn.

Before long Tracie and Pete are living together and exploring the realms of the BDSM world. Tracie is discovering parts of her life she never knew were missing. But will she be enough for Pete to make her his alone?


HOT WICKED AND WILD is broken down into three parts, but one full length story and it’s an awesome read. Hold on to your clothes because they’re about to melt off from the heat Ms. Holt invokes on the reader. Ms. Holt never fails to wow me with her ability to drag you into her stories, so quickly. Her stories leave you feeling hot, wicked and wild!

Her heroine Tracie is yet another heroine you can relate to. She’s strong-willed, yet vulnerable. And Pete, well, he’s just as sexy as all hero’s, throw in his friend Dallas and you have yourself tons of fun.

HOT WICKED AND WILD lives up to its name and a highly suggested read for anyone who loves erotica. I suggest hurrying to get your copy today; this is too hot to miss. And as for me - I eagerly await Ms. Holt’s next book.

BODY CANDY by Taylor Tryst

BODY CANDY by Taylor Tryst Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Date published: February 2009 ISBN 1-4199-1937-4 Contemporary Erotica Romance E-book Reviewed by Tina CLICK TO PURCHASE! To add to her sexual fulfillment, Sophia has created body candy. Fun tasting liquid that hardens on the skin. What better way to spend her lonely nights? When a detective appears on her doorstep Sophia is ready to try some BODY CANDY on him, but he’s threatening to expose her secrets and she’ll do just about anything to keep them safe. Brody’s brother turns up dead and someone is trying to put the mastermind behind BODY CANDY out of business and six feet under as quickly as possible. Brody’s fighting to keep himself alive and even though he has a few secrets of his own, they might not be as deadly as Sophia’s. When she decides she wants to test her newest creation out on him will he have what it takes to keep them both safe from the danger lurking? Every now and then I like to try out new authors (new to me) and boy am I glad I gave Taylor Tryst a try. As a reviewer I never know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. She writes a riveting tale that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen to Brody and Sophia. The sex scenes are plentiful and will leave you breathless. At times they will even have you laughing as these two can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Edible candy never tasted as sweet as in BODY CANDY. Ms. Tryst creates an action packed story that will have you yearning for more. Her sexy heroine is quick with the witty come-backs and her hero is super H-O-T hot. BODY CANDY is a must read for anyone who loves erotica. I look forward to future books from Ms. Tryst.

TORRID TEASERS VOL 18 by Sherrill Quinn & RaeLynn Blue

Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Date published: 2006
ISBN: 1-59374-778-0
Erotic Contemporary Romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina

CLICK TO PURCHASE!
TALL, DARK AND NAKED by Sherrill Quinn

Anna O’Banyon is alone again on Christmas Eve. Her one wish in life is to wake up on Christmas morning with a man in her bed, someone to hold her on that special morning, someone to make her feel whole again. Even if it’s just for that one time, Anna doesn’t mind.

Jasper Snow otherwise known as Jazz works for the man; Santa that is! Kris has an idea for a division called fru-fru. This division will grant a lonely, despaired person the one wish their hearts desire. Jazz is out of his mind with anger. What does he know about romance? Absolutely nothing.

Jazz relents and Anna is his mission. Jazz fulfills Anna wish of not waking up alone on Christmas morning, along with a few other lost wishes. Can Anna show Jazz he really does know something about romance? Or will Jazz disappear once the wish has been granted?

TALL, DARK AND NAKED is a cute Christmas tale. But there’s no mistaken the story is hot, hot, hot. Ms. Quinn has created two characters you can truly relate to. Jazz who not only fears what the other elves, so to speak, think about him heading a Fru-Fru division and his honest to goodness fear of true romance.
Anna on the other hand immediately pulls at every woman’s heartstrings with her desire to wake up in the arms of a man on Christmas. No one wants to be alone on that magical morning.

This reviewer felt the short tale was packed full of holiday cheer and steamy lovemaking. Ms. Quinn has created a wonderful story. So while it’s cold outside, snuggle under a blanket with TALL, DARK AND NAKED and be ready to feel red-hot!

THE HAUNTING by RaeLynn Blue

Being her grandmother’s namesake, Elizabeth Owens always felt honored. Elizabeth was always close to her grandmother and shared her memories in her antique three-bedroom house, so it was no surprise when it was willed to her. The true surprises came from the ring her grandmother also willed to her.
Each time Elizabeth puts the ring on she feels a tingling sensation in her hand and not only that she’s having strange hallucinations.

Will Elizabeth give in to the hallucinations and discover an amazing world beyond belief, a world during Queen Elizabeth’s time? Or will she discard the ring to rid herself from this odd feeling?

THE HAUNTING is a unique tale of travel back in time. Ms. Blue has done a wonderful job creating vivid details to make the reader feel as though she is traveling back in time too. Ms. Blue’s characters are easily identifiable and draw you into their lives immediately. For a short tale, Ms. Blue filled the pages with great writing.

And the sex…wow! To be ravished the way Ms. Blue’s heroine Elizabeth is, just by putting on a ring, had this reviewer wishing she could find herself a ring too.
So if you’re looking to escape back in time for some too hot to handle sexual escapade, THE HAUNTING is just the story for you.

This reviewer recommends reading these two tales in one sitting.

OPAL – Public Displays of Affection by Leannan Mac Llyr

,Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Date published: October 2008 ISBN 9781419918674 Contemporary Erotica Romance E-book Reviewed by Tina CLICK TO PURCHASE! Lacey is tired of sneaking off for quickies and keeping her relationship with Andy a secret. He won’t touch her in public and he certainly won’t kiss her in the presence of another. Lacey want to scream her excitement over the relationship from rooftops, but fears she’ll be his secret forever. When Andy gives her an Opal ring passed down from generations in his family, Lacey has a sliver of hope that things will change between the two – until he takes her on a secret sex rendezvous, where her hopes sink. But Andy has a few secrets of his sleeve. The ring he gave Lacey is magical and he’s about to give her a public display of affection she’ll never forget. Get out your iced cold drink ready before you read OPAL – PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION, because this book is a scorcher. Ms. Mac Llyr heats up the pages with her sex scenes. Even when the couple is having private sex, it’s steamy. When you get to the public displays get ready for a cold shower or have your spouse handy. Lacey and Andy click from the moment Ms. Mac Llyr brings them together. Lacey’s emotional struggles of being a kept woman are feelings this reviewer is sure some women can relate to. OPAL is a quickie, but it will leave you craving more. This reviewer highly recommends this book for lovers of erotica.

SURRENDER – Tales of Erotic Submission by Eden Bradley, Eliza Gayle, Reese Gabriel, and Alessia Brio

Publisher: Phaze Books
Date published: September 2008
ISBN 978-1-60659-087-4
Contemporary Erotic Romance
E-book
Reviewed by Tina


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BREAKING SKYE by Eden Bradley

Skye Ballard takes out an ad hoping to find a Dom who will cure her desires to submit – but just for one night. She believes one night is all it will take for her fantasies to be fulfilled.

When she meets Adam Dunne, Skye knows she’s met her man. He’s just dripping with sexual appeal. Adam agrees to teach her how to be submissive only on his terms.

Once Adam takes Skye under his wing, will he be able to release this sub to another Dom or will he keep her for his own?

Ms. Bradley works her magic with BREAKING SKYE. She brings her characters to life in the first paragraph, hooking the reader immediately. Skye is a strong heroine who wants to explore the deeper side of sex. Once she begins her training she’s not too sure she’s up for the challenge, but when Adam leaves her hanging on the brink of satisfaction, she learns a lot about herself.
Adam is tall, dark and oh-so-sexy. He left me breathless right along side of Skye.


SUBMISSIVE SECRETS by Eliza Gayle

Carli comes home tired after a long day to find a man naked in her bed. Here’s the chance she’s waited eight long years to show him how much she’s missed him. She’s regretted leaving him the day before their wedding, every day. But she harbors a secret – the reason she left him in the first place.

Aidan’s on a mission – to uncover Intel secrets. He doesn’t want to spend any more time then necessary with Carli. He’d been hurt deeply by her quick exit. When he comes across her deepest, darkest, desires while searching her apartment will he have a change of heart?

This reviewer is a huge fan of Eliza Gayle, but this story left me disappointed. There was a premise to the story that I felt was forgotten about along the way. The heroine and hero had undeniable chemistry and when they came together, sparks flew. The sexual tension and combattery was amazing and engaging. It felt like the premise was pushed aside for sex. In this reviewer’s opinion, I would have liked to see the story finished. And the tons of questions I have answered.


CUPID’S CAPTIVE by Reese Gabriel

John Cupid lives by certain rules, but the most important? There is no such thing as falling in love. And for this Dom it’s all about playing and John Cupid has many women longing to play. There’s nothing sexier than a submissive obeying him. When John’s work partner and best friend Carl persuades him to keep tabs on his younger sister for the night, John finds himself with his hands full.

Steffy Hayes has been in love with her “uncle” John for as long as she can remember. After overhearing a conversation between John and her brother Carl Steffy sets out to be everything John is looking for. Will John be able to resist her charms? Will Steffy convince John there is such a thing as love?

Mr. Gabriel claims to be an expert in BDSM and who is this reviewer to argue? CUPID’S CAPTIVE has proven to this reader that Mr. Gabriel does know his way around BDSM and very well. The Dom/Submissive scenes are intense, riveting and oh so breathtaking. From the first sentence you’re drawn to the hero John. Mr. Gabriel shows you a softer side to this strong, sexy Dom. The heroine Stephanie or “Steffy”, as she called throughout the story is one strong-willed woman. At twenty-one she’s wise beyond her years. She knows what she wants and determined to succeed in winning the affection of John.


LISTEN TO ME by Alessia Brio

This three page snippet is about two nameless people who are engaging foreplay. One is blindfolded while the other is controlling the situation. The one in control has a secret, but is waiting for the right moment.

I must say, as a reviewer this was the first time I was thoroughly confused by a story and disappointed. I was distracted by the need to figure out if they were male or female. I couldn’t connect with the characters because I wasn’t sure who they were and weren’t given any names. That’s not to say that given more of the story I wouldn’t have liked it. In my opinion had we been given more of the story it would have answered the questions running through my mind.

AT YOUR SERVICE: Part of the Working Man Series by JM Snyder

Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press
Date published: September 2008
ISBN 978-1-60168-137-9
Contemporary Erotic M/M
E-book
Reviewed by Tina


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Danny wonders if he’ll ever find his Mr. Right, but he can’t concentrate on expressing his fears to his best friend Jen, when she’s driving like a lunatic. His only concern at the moment is staying alive long enough for a Mr. Right.

Jen, loves her best friend dearly. His only issue is not enough confidence in himself. When they go to lunch at TGI Friday’s, two waiters argue over who is going to wait on them. When the replacement waiter takes their order, Jen’s certain he’s making a pass at Danny.

Danny doesn’t see it. He’s convinced Jen is “seeing” things that aren’t there. Jen is determined to hook up her friend with the waiter and devises yet another plan to prove Danny wrong.

Working Man: AT YOUR SERVICE is part of the Working Man series, but this story can be read as a standalone.

This reviewer enjoyed this short tale. She loved the zaniness of Jen, the hero’s best friend. She’s crazy and not afraid to speak her mind, or get what her best friend deserves.

Danny, the hero is sullen in the story. He’s jaded from the notion of love at first sight or love at all. This reviewer enjoyed knowing that taking a detour could have you finding Mr. Right. Life throws us curves, sometimes you have to roll with the punches to find the surprise.

AT YOUR SERVICE was an enjoyable short story and this reviewer would recommend reading this and others by JM Snyder.