Review - Cowboys for Christmas by Destiny Blaine

Title: Cowboys for Christmas

Author: Destiny Blaine

Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press

Buy Link

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Val


Blurb:
Julie Kensworth opens her door to more than a blizzard and greets two wayward cowboys. She realizes right away she’s headed straight for the eye of the storm.
Brandon Blake and Quinn Stewart are a long way from home. They’re looking for a warm place to hang their hats while they try to wait out the snow and ice, which continues to gain momentum.

Julie is an author and she’s not just the average writer, she’s one of the most notorious writers in the world. When Quinn and Blake figure out Julie is an erotic romance author, well, needless to say, their minds churn with all sorts of ideas, most of them geared toward how they can heat up the cold winter nights ahead.

Review:
Oh my my, where to start on this review? How about the cover? Steamy huh? Ok, now on to the book. When a strong blizzard bounds Julie to her home, what more can a girl ask for than two cowboys who are what the definition of hotness is all about? This was one seriously hot book. The banter between Quinn and Blake (total opposites in the women department) had me laughing out loud. Julie's character knew how to hold her own with these two cowboys, even if they did give her goosebumps. Heck, even I got goosebumps. This book did make me tear up and you'll know the part I'm talking about when you read it. I can't give it away, but it was a scene that was very well written and evokes a strong emotion in the reader. The neighbor had me giggling with his grumpy attitude and the way Julie responded was seriously comical. There were so many things that drew me into this book. Yes, of course the yummy men, but also the humor of it all as well as the loyalty Brandon and Quinn showed toward Julie.

Ms. Blaine is one of my favorite authors and books like Cowboys for Christmas proves why. This is one author who can craft a well rounded book packed full with action and romance and leave you amazed at how she did so in such a short amount of pages . Ms. Blaine has a way of writing complex characters that you just can't help but fall in love with. As for writing steamy love scenes, I don't know of an author who can write it any better than Ms. Blaine. I strongly urge you to read this book. It's a shorter book at only 85 pages that will curb you desire to read a very sensual and entertaining book.

Review - Family Secrets by Jamie Hill

Title: Family Secrets - Book 1

Author: Jamie Hill

Publisher: Books We Love Publishing

Buy Link

Rating: You Gotta Read
Reviewed by: Val

Blurb:
As if stumbling over a dead body isn't enough, Crystal Cartwright finds herself playing surrogate mother to two small boys when their father--her neighbor--doesn't come home. The kids aren't much trouble, but the thieves, drug dealers and kidnappers they're about to encounter are.

Detective Jack Dunlevy, a cop down on his luck, draws the cases no one else wants. A simple investigation involving a dead homeless man quickly changes as Crystal enlists Jack's help with the children. Drawn into a mystery that none of them could have anticipated, they're faced with a situation that will change their lives forever.

Review:
Ms. Hill is a genius! Family Secrets is the first book in the series followed by Family Ties. I had reviewed Family Ties (outstanding book), so I wanted to go back and read the first book in the series. This book is truly one of the best I've read in 2010. Crystal's character was less than perfect and I fell in love with her immediately. Sassy and brassy, this lady could hold her own. Jack's character was the kind of gentleman every reader wants as their hero. He was fiercely protective of Crystal and her unplanned little family. He won my heart right away. The plot line was AMAZING. It was action packed and kept me on the edge of my seat almost the entire time. It amazes me how Ms. Hill can fit in so much action, romance and just about every emotion under the sun, into a book that is only 138 pages long. Ms. Hill has become a favorite author of mine and I consider her to be an automatic add to my "to be read list". If you are a serious suspense loving reader who loves to form bonds with the characters, this is definitely the book for you! I loved it and can't wait to read more of Ms. Hill's books, she has the gift of knowing what the reader wants and then hitting you with an ending you certainly don't expect. Two thumbs up!

Review - Waking Up the Arguably Dead by Destiny Blaine

Title: Waking Up The Arguably Dead

Author: Destiny Blaine

Publisher: Passion in Print Press

Buy Link

Rating: You Want/Need to Read

Reviewed by: Val


Blurb:
Martin Cartwright's neighbor receives disheartening news. She's dying. As far as Martin can tell, Addison has never looked better, but when daily sightings of his beautiful neighbor become few and far between, Martin realizes Addison isn't too keen on living. And he decides to help her get on with dying.
Martin plans to scare Addison into living. Unbeknownst to him, someone is watching with similar goals. Only Drake Valentine's interests in the lovely Miss Deveraux vary from Martin's ambitions. Soon, Addison must choose between living in the shadows of sickness and stepping into the darkness where she's always been drawn.

Review:
In Waking Up the Arguably Dead, Addison's character is inexperienced in the art of love but what does it matter, she's dying right? Long time neighbor Martin Cartwright has had a thing for Addison for as long as he can remember and now he is bound and determined to make Addison WANT to live. Drake Valentine *dreamy sigh* knows what he wants from Addison and from there the plot gets juicy! I enjoyed the various characters in this book. I did feel like Addison's character progressed a little to fast, but that's just me. One of my favorite character's was the granny. Every book needs a wise, joke cracking granny who knows best and this book did not disappoint. The balance of humor and eroticism worked well together and I need to say, this is one very HOT read. Don't miss the opportunity to read this book.

Review - Alpha Delicious: Silky’s Master by Kate Hill

Title: Alpha Delicious: Silky's Master

Author: Kate Hill

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Alpha Delicious: Silky's Master Here!

Rating: You Want to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Undercover in the royal palace of Amazurn, Silky, a reporter, tries to gather evidence of abuse suffered by Princess Voluptia's harem boys. Invited to the Princess' secret sanctuary where men are used as sex slaves, she meets the former gladiator Shawn-Dan Dawn who has been imprisoned there.

The passion between Silky and Shawn is stronger than an exploding star, but dangerous to them both. When the Princess abducts the Queen's lover, Silky risks arrest to free Shawn and expose the secret harem.

Review:

This story is good, but it could be better. The most obvious problem is the pacing; it is breakneck. There is enough material here for the story to be at least twice as long, if not more. The rushed pacing destroys all suspense because there is no time for the readers to worry about the outcome.

Another issue is that the heroine in perfect. She always knows that to do and no one questions her or her judgment. Conversely, the villain is flatly unlikeable and has no redeeming qualities whatsoever. This makes them both very un-relatable and boring.

The sex is good, and the only time the story slows from its manic pace. The story sticks with the basics and takes no chances in this arena.

Overall, while this story is not bad, it could be better.

Review – Sugarplum: Blitzened by Elizabeth Jewell

Title: Sugarplum: Blitzened

Author: Elizabeth Jewell

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Sugarplum: Blitzened Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Nick hasn't seen Ian in a while -- Ian's been studying. But when Christmas Eve rolls around, the vampire bouncer gets a yen to kindle some holiday spirit in his human boyfriend's heart.

Review:

This story is exactly what is says it is. No frills or flare, just simple straight forward erotica.

There is a enough of a story to establish characters that are clearly different from each other beyond external traits. Giving them individuality makes the sex more intimate and engaging because it is clear they enjoy each other on more then a physical level.

The sex is good, with plenty of foreplay before the deed. Even better, the dialog flows and does not come off as stilted.

Overall, a very enjoyable story.

Review – Just Semantics by Julia Talbot

Title: Just Semantics

Author: Julia Talbot

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Just Semantics Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Maura knows Dixon, the demon killer -- err, hunter -- is bad news the moment he walks into her shop looking for a flea remedy for his shapeshifting partner. Maura's sure men of action like Dix don't go for good girls like her.

Dix knows Maura is the one for him the moment he sets eyes on her. Now he's out to convince Maura he might just be the perfect mate for her. But a demon hunter's the last thing Maura needs, especially one as hot as Dix. Right?

Review:

This is erotica at it's best. The characters are interesting without be overly complicated and the plot is simplistic and asks no questions. The sex is hot and not overly dramatic. It is easy to see the characters are enjoying themselves, which I feel makes it more enjoyable for the reader as well.

Overall, while this story is less then 20 pages long, it uses that space to great advantage. This story makes an excellent before bed read.

Review – Sugarplum: Bound For Christmas by S. Michael

Title: Sugarplum: Bound For Christmas

Author: S. Michael

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Sugarplum: Bound For Christmas Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Jenny adores her husband and Dom, Greg, and she's looking for just the right Christmas gift for him. Lucky for her, her friend Luke has been lusting over her and Greg for a while now and is more than willing to let Jenny wrap him up as the best Christmas present ever.

When Greg gets home, he finds Jenny all wrapped up in red silk, and Luke bound to the wall wearing little more than bells and ribbons. Luke promises to be the best Christmas gift they've ever shared, and Greg's sure it'll be the hottest holiday, too!

Review:

This book is pure erotica. There is no real story and the characters are basically flat, but it does what it sets out to do and does it very well. The BDSM is fairly light, with just a hint of bondage and hand spankings, making it a good choice for those just easing into the genre. The interaction between the characters are hot and spicy, even if the dialog is a bit repetitive and stilted.

Overall, a wonderful bit of erotica.

Review – Sugarplum: Mistletoe by Amber Kallya

Title: Sugarplum: Mistletoe

Author: Amber Kallya

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Sugarplum: Mistletoe Here!

Rating: You Want to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Something's not right. Dragon shifter Calla O'Neil can't stop the emotional rollercoaster taking over her actions. When she finally finds out why, she's going to celebrate by making her husband, Scott, her very own personal body buffet.

Review:

This is a side story to the author's on going series, Dragos. Because of this, a lot of the characterization is left to the characters main story. This does lead to some confusion with references to events the reader may not know about.

There are only a few encounters in this story, but they are long and well written. You can tell there is a lot of chemistry between the two, both physically and emotionally. This makes for some very sweet moments. It also makes for some very hot moments as well.

Overall, if you are looking for a deeper story, I recommend reading the series first. But as a short erotica, this certainly satisfies.

Review - Queens of Merab: Nuriel’s Wolf by Violet Summers

Title: Queens of Merab: Nuriel's Wolf

Author: Violet Summers

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Queens of Merab: Nuriel's Wolf Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

On the world of Merab, women rule, while men wield the magic. It's been an equitable system, until now. Nuriel had been so excited to join her foster sister, Temair, on her Tour of Emetra, the Elemental Continent. She never expected to get caught up in a violent rebellion as the men of Merab strike back against the women who have oppressed them. Captured and terrorized by one of the rebels, Nuriel retreated into herself, terrified of further abuse.

Now that Temair has found her four Consorts and ascended to the throne, Nuriel must begin her own journey, a journey that terrifies her. Ze'ev is just as wounded as Nuriel. Scarred by the loss of his sister and a year in chains, Ze'ev knows the Gladiator's Arena is the only route to freedom left for him. Victory means his life, but it also means marriage to the fragile Princess of Zirah.

Review:

The problem with a series is that the first book a reader picks up may not be the first book chronologically. Such is the case with me. This is the first book in this series I have read, and while I can tell there is an established setting with kingdoms and politics, I have no idea what they are and the book never explains. This makes a lot of what happens a bit hard to follow.

As to the characters, I really liked them. Ze'ev is strong and idealistic and holds himself to higher standard then his statues belies. Nuriel is a tentative counterweight, clearly afraid but wanting to feel free again. Both have been wounded and both want to heal, even if they find the prospect frightening.

The sex in this is plentiful. While they don't stretch far from the basics, those are done very well - and when if comes to carnal pursuits, good is better then often.

Overall, a very good story that could use just a smidgen more work.

Review - Sugarplum: The Demon’s Christmas Present by Leona Grey

Title: Sugarplum: The Demon's Christmas Present

Author: Leona Grey

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Sugarplum: The Demon's Christmas Present Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

So a demon walks into a bar... No, seriously.

Peter is a wealthy, philanthropic mystery man who loves children and just happens to confess, while in a state of drunkenness, that he is, in fact, a demon. A Christmas demon, no less. Of course, he also happens to confess his burning desire for Lacey and challenges her to return to him if she thinks she can handle it. Who could say no to that? Especially when the man issuing the challenge has chocolate brown eyes, broad shoulders, and a huge heart.

Review:

I love Mythology, the traditions of other countries are always fascinating. So a story about a Christmas Demon was right up my alley. While this story does not delve too deeply into the myths, it is clear the author did her research.

This story is surprisingly funny because Lacey's response is exactly what you would expect on learning someone is a demon. Their conversations flow easily with a smattering humor that makes both very likeable.

The sex is good, but nothing special. Still it gets you where you are looking to go.

Overall, a very enjoyable story.

Review – Prey For Me by Claudia Rose

Title: Prey For Me

Author: Claudia Rose

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Prey For Me Here!

Rating : You Need To Read

Reviewed By : Jodie Pierce

Blurb :

What would you do if you found a handsome vampire in your basement?

Burnt out from solving one violent crime too many, Detective Jessica Croft welcomes the chance to take a break from her job and throw her energy into renovating an old mansion inherited from her Aunt Rose. But Jess's life takes a bizarre turn for the worse when she knocks down a false wall in the basement of her new home and discovers Prey-an enigmatic vampire with a death wish-interred within.

Prey's unintentional liberation attracts demon vampires like bees to a honeypot. Caught in the middle, Jess becomes a reluctant pawn in their sadistic games. Hounded at every step and desperate to survive, she turns to Prey for help. Together they discover a union more intense and intimate than either could have imagined. But can they accept the terrible price they will ultimately have to pay to be together?

Review :

Sergeant Jessica Croft was forced to take some time off after killing a rapist stalker. The timing couldn't have been more perfect as her late Aunt Rose left her home to Jessica in her will. Jessica rented out her place and moved to the house in hopes of fixing it up and reselling it. During some basement wall removal Jessica meets Prey, a vampire directly descended from Dracula. He has holed himself up in the wall after his beloved Rose's passing in hopes of fading away or dying. He's insists Jessica leave him alone however once his evil sister Aphra and her demons arrive on the scene and hurt Prey he is forced to accept her help. Aphra makes it clear to Jessica that she wants Prey for procreation of the most powerful vampire of all time. She forces Jessica to take care of Prey under penalty of death. In doing so, Jessica and Prey fall for each other while trying to protect themselves from Aphra's attacks on Jessica. Will evil win over goodness? Will Jessica survive to love Prey and will he change her to live with him forever as a vampire?

Claudia Rose has put together an action packed story worthy of reading. The main characters were well developed and endearing to the reader. They had you rooting for them all the way to the end. The progression of the story moved along so quickly it was over before you realized and left you wanting more. The sexual chemistry between Prey and Jessica was very steamy and painted a great picture in the readers mind. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves vampires with a twist. Mortals protecting vampires is something new and fresh.

Review – Sugarplum: Mutts by Sarah Black

Title: Sugarplum: Mutts

Author: Sarah Black

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Sugarplum: Mutts Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Matt is alone for Christmas, wondering if the magic of his favorite holiday is gone forever in a life of bills and disappointments and loneliness and work. Then a couple of puppies appear outside his door, sitting in a milk crate. Matt enlists the help of Josh from across the hall to hide them from their grumpy landlord, the evil Mr. Scrapple. But Christmas is a time of miracles, and nothing is quite what it seems.

Review:

This story is so sweet it will give you a toothache. It has puppies, and Christmas, and a Scrooge, and the first tentative steps of a new love.

The characters, while not as well defined as they could be, are unique and each has their own traits. The sex is soft and sweet, and is so effortless it almost sneaks up on you. This leaves their relationship more in the forefront, instead of artificially highlighting only one aspect.

Overall, a wonderfully sweet holiday story.

Review – Innocent by Scott Turow

Title: Innocent

Author: Scott Turow

Publisher: Hatchette Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Innocent Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Shawn Weisser

Blurb:

The sequel to the genre-defining, landmark bestseller Presumed Innocent, INNOCENT continues the story of Rusty Sabich and Tommy Molto who are, once again, twenty years later, pitted against each other in a riveting psychological match after the mysterious death of Rusty's wife.

Review:

This story continues the tale of Judge Rusty Savich and those in his life. An affair, inappropriate contact with a suspect, and a death in the family set the scene for this trial of the century. Turow, an entertaining author, has all of the necessary elements of a good book. I am not sure the audio book did justice to the story. The readers used odd pronunciations of words as if they were unfamiliar.

In listening to the audio book, Innocent, I felt a bit left out of the story. It is possible that since I had not read the previous book, Presumed Innocent, I was unaware of the characters' history and therefore I was not connected. This may have been the underlying reason that although I believe the book is good it is not great. In my opinion a sequel needs to be able to stand alone and this one did not. It took the third CD to get me involved enough to where I wanted to continue. I did not feel sympathy for any of the characters but I did want to figure out the "who dunnit" part so I continued to listen. Actually, I was pretty sure of the who but not the how and the why was pretty obvious from the third CD.

I also had issues with some terminology. The term "coppers" was used often. Although I read it in British books and hear it in British TV shows or movies, I do not find it in American made materials. The book was set in the US so it felt a bit out of place. Innocent was not an enjoyable 'read' for me.

Review - Scarab-Akhenaten: Book One of the Amarnan Kings by Max Overton

Title: Scarab-Akhenaten: Book One of the Amarnan Kings

Author: Max Overton

Publisher: Writers Exchange E-Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Scarab-Akhenaten: Book One of the Amarnan Kings Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Shawn Weisser

Blurb:

A chance discovery in Syria reveals answers to the mystery of the ancient Egyptian sun-king, the heretic Akhenaten and his beautiful wife Nefertiti. Inscriptions in the tomb of his sister Beketaten, otherwise known as Scarab, tell a story of life and death, intrigue and warfare, in and around the golden court of the kings of the glorious 18th dynasty.

The narrative of a young girl growing up at the centre of momentous events - the abolition of the gods, foreign invasion and the fall of a once-great family - reveals who Tutankhamen's parents really were, what happened to Nefertiti, and other events lost to history in the great destruction that followed the fall of the Aten heresy.

Max Overton follows his award-winning trilogy of ancient Greece (Lion of Scythia, The Golden King, Funeral in Babylon) with the first book in another series set in Egypt of the 14th century B.C.E. Meticulously researched, the book unfolds a tapestry of these royal figures lost in the mists of antiquity.

Review:

I read Scarab-Akhenaten in two days and probably could have read it in one but life interfered. I did not put the book down for anything less than necessary. I truly enjoyed the story of Egyptian kings, queens, family, and royal life with all of the pettiness and power-hungry alliances. Max Overton wrote an interesting book in an enjoyable fashion. The story begins in the 1950's with a discovery of lost Egyptian royalty and leads into the story of Scarab and her famous family. I enjoyed the look into Egyptian life and politics. Overton explained all of the marriages and family lines in an understandable manner and I was able to easily keep track. I love they way the book ends with the first half of Scarab's life and I am excited to read the sequel to this book to find out more.

Review – Flawless by Jana Richards

Title: Flawless

Author: Jana Richards

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy Link: Buy Flawless Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Jennifer

Blurb:

Jewels of the Night Series

France, 1942. The world is at war. The Nazis have stolen the infamous blue diamond, Le Coeur Bleu, intending to barter it for weapons that will destroy the Allies. Jewel thief Hunter Smith is given a choice: help the French Resistance steal back the diamond and avenge the death of his best friend, or stay locked up in an English prison. He chooses revenge.

Resistance fighter Madeleine Bertrand's husband died when he was betrayed by Hunter Smith. How can she now pretend to be married to the arrogant American? How can she betray Jean Philippe's memory by her passionate response to Hunter's kisses?

Neither is prepared for the maelstrom of attraction that erupts between them. To survive they must uncover the mysteries of the past and conquer the dangers of the present. But first Madeleine must decide whether her loyalties lie with her dead husband and the Resistance or with the greatest love of her life.

Review:

I really enjoyed this book. I was sucked in to it in order to find out what happened to Madeleine and Hunter. This is a very intense story involving the Nazi's and a ruthless general. It also involves revenge and redemption and finding love again. All these things are wrapped up in a good story. Madeleine learns to trust Hunter and falls in love with him. I like that Hunter wasn't perfect but the girl still wanted him. The plot with the general and the jewel smuggling was intense and left me wanting the good guy to win, which they did. The final destruction of the general, his horrid staff and other bad guys was quick and powerful, which to me is a good story part. The end must be believable, and that was the ending those evil people deserved.

Overall, it was a well written, intense, believable, love story.

Review – Through Hell And High Water by Christle Gray

Title: Through Hell And High Water

Author: Christle Gray

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy Link: Buy Through Hell And High Water Here!

Rating: You Want to Read

Reviewed By: Jennifer S.

Blurb:

What if your life is nothing but a spell full of lies…?

When Melaina attends her friend's Halloween party she never expects to be thrust into a surreal world. But she finds herself irresistibly drawn to a broad-shouldered stranger who somehow knows her name. When one of the guests disappears in flames, the sexy hunk whisks her away…and spins a fantastic tale.

Oren knows Melaina is a real-life water nymph under a faery's memory spell. Melaina is his soul mate and their betrothal restored power to the naiad people--until a demon decided he'd rather have Melaina for himself. Now, the demon has tracked her down and Oren must find a way to restore Melaina's memory before it is too late.

Melaina is astonished. Naiads? Faeries? Demons? But she can't ignore her attraction to Oren--or the way his touch is making her body remember things her brain can't...

Review:

I loved the plot to this book. It's a short read at around 60 pages. So it's one you can curl up and read in one sitting. It becomes instant gratification for reading.

The plot of the book is a water nymph, Melaina who has been under a memory spell, so she doesn't realize what she is. At the party she sees Oren and he instantly turns her on. She does not believe what Liliana and Oren are telling her. Even though she's not sure what's going on she desperately wants Oren and so they have wild sex and her memory comes flooding back. The three of them then defend themselves from the evil demon and of course win.

Overall, it's worth the time to read. It's fast paced and well written. It has enough information to pull you in but not an overwhelming amount of information. An epilogue might have been nice for this one. It also has a bit of excitement and good spiciness to it.

Review - Stocking Stuffer: Werewolf Christmas by Kyla Logan

Title : Stocking Stuffer: Werewolf Christmas

Author: Kyla Logan

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Stocking Stuffer: Werewolf Christmas Here!

Rating: You Want to Read

Reviewed By: Jennifer S.

Blurb:

Theron, the Alpha of the Lochinver pack, is not looking forward to Christmas this year. His brother Xavier has been fortunate to have found his lifemate, and this will be their first Christmas together.

Jeri had only met her friend's partner once before and although he seemed nice he was too intense for her liking. Now Jenna has invited Jeri to spend the Christmas holidays with the two of them and Xavier's older brother. When Theron arrives home after attending pack business he is assaulted by the most delicious scent. Who does it belong to and how does he go about claiming the owner for his mate?

Review:

This story is less than 20 pages, so there's not much time for in depth story lines, character development or time to get to know the characters. I can say that it's plenty of time to have hot graphic sex.

It does have the storyline of a werewolf always knowing it's mate at first smell. The whole controlling one's inner wolf so not to hurt the human mate premise happens.

Overall, for a fast, steamy, paranormal story it's good. It's a nice tie in over the Christmas holiday. If you like very steamy stories then this one can be read in a moment between wrapping presents and baking cookies and it's an enjoyable fun read.

Review – Hungry For You by Lynsay Sands

Title: Hungry For You

Author: Lynsay Sands

Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

Buy Link: Buy Hungry For You Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

This vampire has been alone for far too long . . .

As one of the most ancient in the Argeneau clan, Cale Valens has given up on finding a life mate. His friends and family, however, have not. In fact, they believe they've finally found his perfect match. Getting them together, however, requires one little white lie . . .

Alexandra Willan is in a panic. Her restaurant is due to open in two weeks, but her chef just walked out. Then a highly recommended replacement arrives, an impossibly handsome culinary genius who sends electric tingles racing through her body . . .

Except he can't cook. In fact, Cale hasn't eaten real food in two thousand years. Yet he's determined to prove to Alex his prowess in the kitchen . . . and elsewhere. Because never has he hungered so for any mortal woman. And not just for a taste of her, but for the whole delicious feast!

Review:

Once again I found out why I love certain authors. Lynsay Sands does not disappoint the reader in this latest installment in her Argeneau series. Once I opened this book I had a hard time putting it down. Hungry For You has it all from romance to intrigue plus the humor that I always look forward to in a Lynsay Sands book.

Cale and Alexandra make a great couple. Alexandra is a smart and feisty woman who knows what she wants in life and has no time to for men yet after meeting Cale she just might want to make the time. Cale is a strong man who sees what he wants and goes after it. The relationship that builds between the two was a wonderful read. I love that Cale actually attempts to learn how to cook and win over Alexandra. My views towards microwaves will never be the same.

Hungry For Youpulled me in right from the start and kept me turning the pages until the end. With just the right amount of action mixed in with the romance this is a book that should not be missed. I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. I can't wait to see whom Marguerite fixes up next.

Review – Needing Harte by Marilu Mann

Title: Needing Harte


Author: Marilu Mann


Publisher: Ellora's Cave


Buy Link: Buy Needing Harte Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Part of the 1-800-DOM-help series.

Harte Donovan has a problem. A murder leads to him wanting a sexy stripper bound and naked in front of him. He can't let his secret desires ruin his career as a detective. But when he's given a mysterious business card, Harte discovers a side of himself he intends to fully embrace.

Ramey Nichols strips for a living and he's not willing to pretend to be something he's not. When this sexy submissive meets the closeted cop and unwitting Dom, something has got to give. That something might just be Ramey. Ramey knows what he wants, and more than that, finds himself Needing Harte.

Review:


Being a cop is hard enough for Harte add in being gay and all the complications it brings and you have a major disaster waiting to happen. So Harte plans on keeping his secret for as long as he can but fate has other plans for him.

On a routine investigation Harte meets dancer Ramey Nichols and falls quickly and deeply for the man. Do Harte and Ramey have a chance or will Harte's hiding what he is finish them before they have even begun?

Needing Harte is a great read about finding love when you least expect it. This story gripped me right from the start. Harte is a strong willed man but he is afraid of what will happen once he outs himself at his job. Ramey is a good man who loves with all his heart and will not hide from the world. The two compliment one another very well. Harte may be new to being a Dom but Ramey is ready and willing to help him learn. The trust and love that develops between them is a beautiful read.

Marilu Mann writes a wonderful story that takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Needing Harte is a well-written and fast paced story that should not be missed.

Review - Politically Incorrect: Subjugated by Jaid Black

Title: Politically Incorrect: Subjugated

Author: Jaid Black

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Politically Incorrect: Subjugated Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Mickey

Blurb:

Shannon Smith thinks her marriage to the intense, brooding Hani bin Nasser is one of convenience, but her mysterious Saudi husband has other plans.

Review:

Politically Incorrect: Subjugated is an interesting novella, with an equally interesting theme especially when one considers today's political climate. While reading it, it is apparent that Ms. Black manages to handle the subject with an extremely delicate and refreshing touch. Perhaps this is because she refrains from mentioning anything remotely political and concentrates her focus on the romantic and cultural aspects of the story. Those differences, both the minute and the complex, are illustrated in a number of ways and show how much time and attention Ms. Black spent researching her book.

I found Politically Incorrect: Subjugated to be a very charming romance, perhaps because it reminded me of an old-fashioned bodice ripper with the stereotypical dominant hero and his oh so wonderfully defiant heroine. Shannon and Hani are not the perfect couple, they just happen to be the perfect couple for each other. Coming to terms with this fact takes them a little time and several misunderstandings to work through and affords the reader with several colorful moments as they take these missteps. Ms. Black has a very deft touch in showing how Middle Eastern men view women and how these beliefs conflict when one has a Western, and somewhat strong-willed, wife. If you are looking for a straight forward romance, with a happy ending and a fun filled middle, this is the book for you.

Review – Willing Victim by Cara McKenna

Title: Willing Victim

Author: Cara McKenna

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Willing Victim Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Mickey

Blurb:

For the past couple years Laurel's been coasting, hiding in the backseat while her life drifts off course. Then one summer afternoon a tall, built bruiser named Flynn strides in and steers her straight into an infatuation she never saw coming.

Flynn introduces Laurel to things she's never imagined-to the violent but exciting realm of the underground boxing circuit, to rough sex and even rougher role-playing, and to an attraction she craves even as it intimidates her. As Flynn invites her deeper into his world and his life, Laurel has to make a choice-let fear keep her holed up where it's safe, or take a chance and fight for the man who makes her feel more alive than she'd dreamed possible.

Review:

I am sure that Ms. McKenna's disclaimer causes some initial hesitation prior to reading Willing Victim, it certainly did for me. Yes, she does utilize rape situations or role-playing for her characters' love scenes, yet they are done in a nonviolent and tasteful manner. Is this a contradiction - rape and nonviolence, probably however, in this instance Ms. McKenna's scenes are more sensual and ultimately loving than one would expect. Perhaps, remembering that rape is a crime of violence, and Willing Victim is a novel centered in passion outlines the differences between the two acts. In addition, Laurel and Flynn actually begin to care for each other with that affection immediately apparent, and it is even more evident as time goes on. The romance is always there throughout regardless of what position, no pun intended, the characters happen to find themselves.

I was truly surprised at how much I liked this story! The characters are normal everyday people, slightly flawed but somehow charming, the dialogue is quick and sparkling, the plot plausible and highly engaging. Watching Laurel and Flynn struggle to understand their developing relationship, especially when they tried so hard to avoid any hint of one, is both wonderful and amusing. Ms. McKenna knows how to see into the mind of the average couple and put their insecurities and fears out there for her readers to enjoy. Inserting a D/s element into her story, with both the level and the intensity of those scenes not to mention the raw sensuality, illustrates Laurel and Flynn's insecurities in their intimate moments. I can definitely say that Willing Victim is not a novel easily forgotten, but it is certainly one easily enjoyed.

Review – Harley Afternoon Delight by Molly Diamond

Title: Harley Afternoon Delight

Author: Molly Diamond

Publisher: Breathless Press

Buy Link: Buy Harley Afternoon Delight Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Sherman's next-door-neighbor, Carla, is driving him insane, and he wants her as his woman. Carla is beautiful, voluptuous, and her Italian heritage makes her twice as desirable. He's made every excuse he can to get close to her, but one day, as she's mowing grass, two guys in a pickup stop by. They ask for directions and hint at trouble. Sherman intercedes, but when Carla makes her appreciation obvious, is it because she only wants to thank him and is drawn to his kick-ass Harley Davidson-or is Carla really smitten with Sherman?

Review:

Carla and Sherman have been neighbors for months now. Yet neither of them has decided to make their move until one afternoon when some unsavory looking men come to bother Carla.

Harley Afternoon Delight is a hot read. Carla and Sherman are a cute couple. Sherman is a great guy and ready to stand toe to toe with anyone especially when Carla needs him. When he and Carla get together the sparks fly.

As well written as this book was I still had a hard time connecting with the characters. I would have loved to get to know Carla and Sherman a bit better and see more of their story. This one seemed a little rushed.

Even though this was not one of my favorite books Molly Diamond writes a hot story with great characters and I would love to read some more of her work.

Review – Bradbury Inn by K.J. Dahlen

Title: Bradbury Inn


Author: K J Dahlen


Publisher: Solstice Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Bradbury Inn Here!

Rating: You Need To Read


Reviewed by: Jennifer S.


Blurb:

Jillian Levy came to the Bradbury Inn to discover the truth. Rumors claim the Inn is haunted by the spirits of Claire and Matilda Bradbury and a man named George Walker after fire destroyed the Inn, eighty years ago. Shortly after she arrives the only other person who was at the Inn all those years ago returns. Matthew Nixen has returned to find his true love, Matilda. He feels finding her is the only way to break the curse the Inn is under. George used voodoo to protect the woman he loved and now they must use voodoo to get Jillian and Seth out of the Inn before Death comes to take the souls he was denied so long ago.


Review:

K.J. Dahlen can weave an intense story. A few pages into Bradbury Inn and I was already wondering what I had gotten myself into with her book. I wanted to see what would unfold and what the outcome would be. Jillian is brave to even buy the inn to begin with and then to discover it is truly haunted. Claire, Tilly and George are the ghosts in residence. They can't move on because George cursed them. Matthew comes because he knows he must find Tilly's burial spot. Matthew brings with him his grandson Seth, who doesn't believe anything that goes on in the house, until towards the end. I like that the friendship between Jillian and Seth grows slow and no romantic one is really portrayed in this book. The story line is sweet between Matthew and Tilly. That desire to find your one true love is so sweet to me. Then Claire finally discovers she loves George when he kisses her. The added story line after the four ghosts being taken by Death is very good and it was a good way to continue the story.

Overall, it was well worth reading and Ms. Dahlen really did a great job telling 2 stories within one book and keeping it all straight and moving forward and believable. I enjoyed reading this book.

Review - Claiming Christmas by Naima Simone

Title: Claiming Christmas


Author: Naima Simone


Publisher: Breathless Press

Buy Link: Buy Claiming Christmas Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Mickey


Blurb:

Sabotaged Christmas pageant. Check. Number one on the hit list of cheating ex-fiancé's mother. Check. Imminent firing from principal, who happens to be the cheating ex-fiancé's mother. Double check.


For elementary school teacher Regan Price, Christmas is a big bah humbug. Alone, all she has to look forward to this holiday is a drink and an empty apartment. Then Cian St. John comes home. The hot-sex-walking brother of her best friend has returned to Boston with a tantalizing proposition that awakens her every fantasy. Now it appears Regan may have more than a pink slip in her Christmas stocking. All she has to do is reach out and claim it…


Review:

Every now and then you come across a charming little gem that makes you remember why you love to read, and I must say that Naima Simone's Claiming Christmas has my vote for one of this holiday's best, hands down. It has all the features necessary to make a good novella better: engaging characters, an interesting storyline, fun and funny dialogue and the most crucial element for a romance steamy love scenes. Who doesn't like a story the makes you laugh out loud at one moment, and blush in sheer sensual enjoyment at the next.

The chemistry between Regan and Cian is combustible, and most importantly, believable. I was rooting for their relationship to succeed from the moment Cian whispered in her ear; the only thing that could have made the story better would have been spending more time with these characters. Can I see this situation happening, actually yes I could envision this type of happily ever after and maybe that is why it is such a wonderful success. As a holiday novella Claiming Christmasis a resounding success, as a post Santa tale it still has its place on my keeper shelf.

Review – Sisters In Arms By Jade Twilight

Title: Sisters in Arms

Author: Jade Twilight

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Buy Link: Buy Sisters In Arms Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewer: Nerine Dorman

Blurb:

Alex once again heeds Tiethla's call…and this time, she's not alone.

The Mastive has escaped and is scraping his way back into power. A prophecy says Alex must stop the Mastive once and for all, but how can she defeat such darkness alone?

Alex is given some temporary hope by the unexpected arrival of Riley, who agrees to help in exchange for passage back to their home world. But Tiethla has a surprise in store for Riley, and there may be no going home once her true identity is revealed.

Review:

While I didn't read book one in the series, it wasn't difficult picking up the threads of this fast-paced little read by Jade Twilight. I thoroughly enjoyed Alex and Riley's sexcapades from the start of their adventure until the end and, most especially the snappy dialogue between the main characters. If there is any criticism to be levelled at the writing, it's the pacing, which, in places, moves along too quickly. I would have liked things to be a bit slower, with a little more description of the environment, the scents, sights and sounds so that I could digest the plot's development.

Overall, this yarn is a joy to read, the writing and editing of a consistently high quality, making it easy for me to run with the story. If you're looking for a quick read featuring sassy girls, drop-dead gorgeous hunks, mild bondage, dragons and cat people, all rolled together in one fun-filled romp, this one will appeal.

Review – The Healing Curse by Tayla Bosco

Title: The Healing Curse

Author: Talya Bosco

Publisher: Loose ID

Buy Link: Buy The Healing Curse Here!

Rating: You Want to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

Karina has decided to go after the one thing she truly wants -- Kent and Justin. She knows they want her as well, but when she shows up unannounced at their weekend getaway, she gets a cold shoulder and even colder heart.

The men have a secret capable of killing, and they aren't willing to risk the woman they love by exposing her to it. When she discovers it anyway, she realizes it's up to her to prove to them that together they can conquer even the worst of curses.

Review:

This story is sex heavy and plot light.

There isn't much to say about the characters or the plot. The characters are all exist in only one emotion apiece. Karina is determined, Justin is angry, and Kent is the peace maker. The plot is just thick enough to get them all between the sheets, and does not stretch itself much beyond that.

Sex takes up the vast majority of this story, some is sweet and some is spicy. The locations are exotic and varied for each encounter. That said, the positions don't change that much, though the guys do change places.

Overall, if you are just looking for a hot read, this is probably a book you will enjoy. But if you are looking for something with more meat to it, you might want to look elsewhere.

Review - The Strange Fate of Capricious Jones by Robert C. Roman

Title: The Strange Fate of Capricious Jones

Author: Robert C. Roman

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Strange Fate of Capricious Jones Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

The Triple Alliance, led by Kaiser Otto II, struck without warning. The combination of Prussian military might, Austrian clockwork, and Ottoman funding cut through the unprepared Entente powers like a chainsaw through Brie; hamstringing Britain, pinning Russia, and very nearly destroying France. The year is 1908, and the Entente is almost defunct. One base in the south of France is all that remains in Entente hands. All that remains to defend freedom are three Engineers.

One is an ingenue.

One is crippled.

One is dead.

Review:

I have no idea what I just read. What is there is good, but it makes no sense. There is no context. There is no introduction, not to the characters or the setting or the technology. The reader is just dropped into the middle of the story and expected to understand the world. There is a war going on, but who is fighting and why is never addressed.

The purpose of a story blurb is to interest the reader. It is not to take the place of the story's opening.

Overall, this story needs an opening.

Review - Shades of Black by S. W. Vaughn

Title: Shades of Black: House Phoenix Book 4

Author: S. W. Vaughn

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Buy Link: Buy Shades of Black Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

The hunted must become the hunter.

For the past fifteen years, Randall Tyler has lived as Dell Ramone-glamorous transvestite, international smuggler, and leader of House Dionysus, the Queens branch of an organization for underground street fighting. Dell's constant companion and bodyguard is Ania, whom she rescued from a vicious human slave trader in the process of putting him away for life-or so she thought.

Now the slaver, Loyal Sims, is out of prison and hungry for Dell's blood. As Loyal tortures and slaughters his way through Dell's loved ones, she is forced to become Randall once again, and take refuge with Angel-the organization's newest House leader, and the only one Loyal doesn't know.

But soon, even Randall isn't safe any more. With Loyal and the NYPD scouring the city for Dell in any form, male or female, Randall is forced to turn the tables and hunt the hunter-because this time, if he doesn't bring Loyal down first, everyone he cares for will die.

Review:

Oh House Phoenix, how I love thee. Let me count the ways. This is definitely one of my favorite series. It is well written, has interesting characters, and carries multiple story lines without a hitch.

Dell is a fun character, s/he is flamboyant and loud, and surprisingly deep. In this story her history is exposed, ripped open and laid bare for all to see. And it isn't a pretty history either. But as is the norm for this series, the exploration is unflinching and rather bloody.

Loyal is an excellent villain. He crazy, but he's not just crazy, he's smart. A true sociopath and completely certifiable; he's focused, driven, and lethal. The scariest part about Loyal is that he knows when not to kill and when to turn on the charm.

The plot of this book returns more towards the houses and the working of the organization as a whole. It is always a nice to see something fleshed out and it is clear that the author did excellent research on the Yakuza and their practices; as well as the very real practice of human trafficking. All of this made for a high energy, fast-paced story that kept me reading far later into the night then I intended.

Overall, I highly recommend not only this book, but the entire series.

Review – Silent Heat by Vonna Harper

Title: Silent Heat

Author: Vonna Harper

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Silent Heat Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Deaf since age ten, Carlee Cooper has become a master gardener. She has developed a teaching greenhouse, funded by her rich landlord, at the local high school and she lives in the small guest cottage behind his home. Although she's attracted to him, she doesn't have much self-confidence when it comes to men.

Her landlord, BDSM Dom York Bridges, knows a sub when he sees one-when he touches and smells her. Carlee is drawn to York's control and power. She'll submit to the red collar her Masterplaces around her neck and his cuffs on her wrists, for now…

Review:

Carlee has been deaf since childhood and hides herself away from the world because of this. Yet her landlord sees nothing wrong with her and finds himself enjoying her company. On his arrival home from his latest trip York sees her as something else and suddenly Carlee and York find themselves with a whole different relationship that is more than just landlord and tenant.

Silent Heat is an interesting story of two people finding love. York is a well-experienced Dom who finds himself loosing interest in the world of BDSM. He is a man that knows what he wants and is in it for the long haul. Carlee does not see herself as everyone else sees her and when she starts to come out of her shell she blossoms. Watching Carlee find herself and begin a relationship with York was a nice read.

As hot as the love scenes were in this story I had a hard time falling into the world of Carlee and York. The connection just didn't happen for me with these two. I enjoyed both York and Carlee as separate characters but had a hard time with their relationship. Even though this was not a favorite for me Vonna Harper is a good writer and I will be sure to look for more from this writer.

Review - The Confident Woman Devotional by Joyce Meyer

Title: The Confident Woman by Joyce Meyer
Author: Joyce Meyer
Publisher: Faith Words
Buy Link

Rating: You Gotta Read
Reviewed by: Val

Blurb:
THE CONFIDENT WOMAN has sold over 400,000 copies since its publication in 2006 and remains Joyce Meyer's only #1 New York Times bestselling book. It continues to sell an average of over 100,000 copies a year; clearly, she tapped into the concerns and issues that trouble women most. In this devotional, Meyer provides encouragement and tools to help address and resolve problems in an area of life that women struggle with.It is easy to get caught up in what the coming weeks, months or years might hold and forget to slow down and live in the present.

Review:
In true Joyce Meyer fashion, she's done it again. The Confident Woman devotional is the little nudge any woman needs to make it through the day. An amazing little gem of a book, you will find that for each day there is a Bible scripture, a word from Joyce and a prayer. It seems like every day is a challenge these days and each time I open up to the appropriate day, I am given a little nugget of encouragement. The Confident Woman Devotional would be the perfect gift for anyone on your list. You don't have to be a die hard church goer to know that each word on each day is written just for you. I highly recommend this book to anyone young or old. Ms. Meyer tells you like it is, calls you on your junk and helps pick you up and dust you off. I have personally read a certain day to a friend that was going through a rough time and it was just the word she needed to hear that day. I love this book and it will be one that I will keep rereading day after day.

Review - Barbary Point by Alan Nayes

Title: Barbary Point
Author: Alan Nayes
Publisher: XOXO Publishing
Buy Link

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Val


Blurb:
When Kelly English flies back to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to close out her father's estate, the last thing on her mind is falling in love. Again. Kelly is twenty-eight and engaged to an older man who is quite wealthy. She's happy, and only desires to make the trip back brief, sell her deceased father's place, and return to her stable life in Los Angeles. However, while taking care of business in Oshkosh, Kelly meets a fishing guide, launching her on an emotional journey she never could have predicted or foreseen. Barbary Point is Kelly's story of what happened that one magical week in May on the shores of Lake Winnebago when the ducklings hatch and the walleye run.

Review:
Kelly finds more than she bargained for when she makes a trip to Oshkosh to sell her deceased father's property. When she sets out to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, she plans to only stay the weekend. That one weekend turns into a week that changes her life forever. Her life is thrown off kilter when she meets Mitch, a fishing guide and her father's best friend. Mitch sheds light on the way Kelly's father felt about her, and from that moment on, Kelly sees the world in a different light. Mitch, much like her father, feels a strong connection to the ocean. At Kelly's request Mitch sets out to educate her a little bit on life in Barbary Point and just why her father loved it so much.

Having come from a similar situation with my own father, this touching novella really hit home with me. I felt I could relate to it in a way that I can't relate to most books I read. Kelly has felt one way about her father all her life and if afforded the opportunity to experience a new outlook on who her father really was. Solid characters and an intricately wound love story will leave you wishing this book had been longer. Mr. Nayes writes with intellectual flair that leaves you wanting to read more.

Barbary Point was a breath of fresh air. In this fast paced life I live in, I love to read to escape and Barbary Point was worth every minute I spent reading. I felt as though I could slow down and enjoy the story. I know nothing of fishing but left this story with a little bit of knowledge and a great appreciation for the life of a fisherman. I would have to say that this book evokes similar emotions to any of the Nicholas Sparks Books.

To Mr. Nayes I would like to say, this book was a job well done. It's evident that you researched the location of the book very well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Kelly's story and I look forward to reading more of your work in the future.

Review - Dhampir Passions by Mary Corrales

Title: Dhampir Passions

Author: Mary Corrales

Publisher: Eternal Press, 2009

Buy Link: Buy Dhampir Passions Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewer: Nerine Dorman

Blurb:

Can everlasting love be found in a paranormal cauldron of greed, bloodlust, passion and murder?

Living in the post-war American Western Barrans, Linea Kamiya is in danger of becoming a vamp master's minion. While she hides Desmondi's evil mark from the townsfolk of Whickeup, the town council intends to take her farmland for themselves. Linea's only hope lies with an enigmatic stranger.

Raduslav Dracula is hunting for the vampire who stole the Draculesti Bloodstone from his family's gravesite. When Radu's attraction to Linea turns physical, he knows he will have to battle with his heart as well as the demon Desmondi.

Is the half-blood Dhampir strong enough to embrace his own cursed nature to defeat Desmondi?

Review:

Dhampir Passions presents an intriguing premise in its dystopian futuristic setting but misses the mark when it comes to solid world-building and overall execution. For one, I feel that there's a lot of "tell" but not enough "show". It's all fine and well to have mutant "Mammoth Wheat" but I wanted to see this; know more about the mechanics and sociology of this post-apocalyptic world. The villagers seem to react with mob mentality, as an example. A lot of intriguing threads are presented, but are not fully developed.

The pacing also needed attention, progressing often in a very haphazard fashion. As a reader I felt rushed, the characters not given enough space to develop their motivations, which were murky, at best. At times the text felt awkward and some of the word choices out of place. Linea comes across as a bit of a Mary Sue, Radu idealized and a bit too stoic for his own good. I wanted to connect with them, but couldn't.

I felt that the author was holding me at arm's length, as though I were reading the script for a TV programme. In fact, I felt that distance of a viewer, rather than reader, who emotionally engages with a story. I really wanted to like Dhampir Passions but, to be quite honest, it needed a lot more work before publication. This is very much a case of "almost, but not quite there" for author Mary Corrales.

Review - Family Ties by Jamie Hill - Book 2

Title: Family Ties

Author: Jamie Hill

Publisher: Books We Love Publishing Partners

Buy Link: Buy Family Ties Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Val

Blurb:

With a couple of dead bodies thrown in, Detective Brady Marshall's stolen goods case has just become a lot more interesting. His love life takes a turn for the better when he meets Gina Morris, a feisty waitress at the club where the latest victim has surfaced. A happily unattached ladies' man, Brady isn't looking to settle down.

Review:

The passion between Gina and Brady sparks the moment they meet. Brady Marshall is a full on hottie whose character is multidimensional. I almost feel like he grows into the man he is meant to be when he meets his match in Gina. Gina is not your ordinary woman. She's not the type to get jealous if her man looks at someone else which could easily happen given her line of work. The way that Brady and Gina relate to each other just makes you want to sigh and say "Aw, how romantic is that?" These two have the passionate relationship I love to see in my hero and heroine.

One thing I loved about this book was since Gina is Italian, she would throw Italian words around and then have to translate to Brady what she had just said. After a while, he grew accustomed to certain words. On top of that, Brady's partner is also Italian. I am thrilled when I read a book and am not simply entertained but learn something along the way as well. It's always an added bonus.

Family Ties started out with a bang and kept me on my toes throughout the entire book. I must say that Family Ties is a little bit different than other books because of who you think is the bad guy is and how things are wrapped up in the end. I'm not going to drop any spoilers but I will simply say that you have to read this book. The ending has a twist you won't expect.

Ms. Hill did an outstanding job with the plotline, and I was literally biting my nails the entire time I was reading. There is one thing that Ms. Hill did and that was keep me awake at night. I couldn't put this fast paced, action packed book down. I HAD to find out what happened next. It was addicting. Ms. Hill has a gift of hooking the reader and not letting go until the very last word. And even then, there was a description of Family Secrets (the first book in the series). It's now on my HAVE TO BUY list. So let me just leave you with this one suggestion. You really want to go out and buy this book. It's a 114 page book that is filled with every emotion you can think of. You won't want to miss this one. Ms. Hill is an author to watch.

Review - Sex Symbol by Tracy H. Kitts

Title: Sex Symbol

Author: Tracy H. Kitts

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Sex Symbol Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Lucy Harper always thought of herself as an ordinary woman, but she suddenly finds herself in extraordinary circumstances. Her sleepy hometown of Peace, Mississippi, turns out to be far from peaceful, what with shapeshifters, vampires and other departures from the "good ol' Southern boy" stereotype cropping up. Her best friends are all hiding devastating secrets. Her ex-boyfriend is suddenly interested in making up. Her sexy new boyfriend is not only the hottest guy she's ever met, he's got some pretty big secrets himself, including what he really is and what he does-besides providing the best sex she's ever had, that is.

And her new tattoo might be more than a picture of her favorite flower-according to the local werewolf pack, it's a "sex symbol". There may be a fight to the death over who gets to claim her as mate.

Review:

When her new neighbor moves in next-door Lucy finds her life thrown into chaos. Friends and enemies have all changed sides and Lucy must find out not only whom she can trust but also whom she can love. Will she trust her heart to Eramus when things go awry or has Lucy been hurt too much already but does she have the time to decide? With werewolves attacking at every side Lucy must quickly find herself and what she wants.

Sex Symbol is a great read that had me hooked right from the start. Lucy is a great woman. She takes what life has thrown at her and deals with it, always ready to fight and get back on her feet. Lucy cares for her friends and is willing to stand by their side no matter what happens. Her new neighbor Eramus turns out to be more than she thought. He is a great man who loves with all his heart and will die to protect Lucy. Watching the attraction grow between the two was a great read. The two make a great couple. Lucy is feisty enough to stand by her man until the end even to the death if necessary and Eramus understands her need to do so.

Not only do we get to meet Lucy and Eramus but we also get introduced to many other wonderful characters in this book. I adored Ozzy, Chase and Justina each one with their own secrets and problems to hide, yet no matter what happens the three friends stand together and by Lucy's side fighting with her.

Tracy H. Kitts weaves a wondrous tale full of love and magic. I would love to visit Lucy and her friends again maybe even find out more about Ozzy or Crazy Wolf. With endearing characters full of emotions and depth this is a book that should not be missed.