You Gotta Read Reviews

Review – Eye Of The Beholder By Dana Marie Bell

2012-01-27T03:33:00.000-06:00

Title: Eye of the Beholder

Author: Dana Marie Bell

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Eye of the Beholder Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Justice isn’t blind anymore.

True Destiny Book 2

Travis Yardley-Rudiger deliberately stayed away from Jamie Grimm, desperate not to pull her into the petty little war of wills between himself and her grandfather, Oliver Grimm. Unfortunately the reemergence of Baldur and Loki and their claiming of Jamie’s sister Jordan put her squarely in Grimm’s sights. Her torture at Grimm’s hands ended with Travis determined to claim and protect the woman he’s loved for years, but how will she take the news that Travis is actually Tyr?

Jamie isn’t certain what’s going on, but one thing is certain: Travis’s stand-offish attitude has done an abrupt one-eighty. He’s even gone so far as to move with her into her sister’s condo while she convalesces. And when he reveals who, and what, he is, Jamie is left to wonder what the Norse God of Justice could possibly want with a crazy redhead with severe family issues.

As far as he’s concerned, it will be Travis’s pleasure to show her…

Warning: This book contains explicit sex, graphic language, a real blond god and a woman with reasons to have trust issues.

Review:

Engrossing! Eye of the Beholder is Norse mythology come to life in a suspenseful, erotic romance. This book is alluring and exhillarating, but it is not an easy read. Ms. Bell has packed a ton of information into this book, and you need to pay close attention or you may just miss some important details. The characters are sexy, the plot is inventive, the sex is...mmm hmmm!

Travis, or Tyr, is the god of Justice, and he is in love with Jamie. Jamie is a beautiful redhead with enough spirit to keep him on his toes. These two have to join forces with their family and friends to defeat the evil Grimm. There are lots of twists and turns, and it is very clear that Ms. Bell has a tremendous imagination!

Review – The Paper Doll By Empress LaBlaque

2012-01-27T03:30:00.000-06:00

Title : Black Satin Confessions: The Paper Doll

Author: Empress LaBlaque

Publisher: Red Rose Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Paper Doll Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By :Rasia

Blurb :

Determined to free her husband from prison, Blanca plays with the fires of past desire. Convinced that Fish sent her husband to jail, Blanca begs this drug supplier to confess to his crime. Unknown to her, Fish has other motives for having his older brother incarcerated. With Whiskey out of his way, Fish reclaims the woman he feels is rightfully his.

Review :

Blanca was shopping close to home when a colleague of Whiskey came to give her the bad news that Whiskey had been arrested. Her whole collapsed then and there.

Believing in his innocence, Blanca knows he has been framed. Although she suspects it’s his brother Fish’s doing, Whiskey doesn’t want to believe that. But Blanca keeps praying that Fish will tell the truth sooner or later.

Love the conversations Blanca and Whiskey have when she visits him. The concern he shows for the family he believes he let down is heartbreaking. As is the fact that Blanca has to take care of their child on her own when she also has to pay all the bills. She can’t rely on family for help and it doesn’t help that Fish, the cause of it all keeps lurking around here. I admire the courage and determination Blanca has to not give up without a fight.

Series Review:

Overall the anthology is well written, a few grammar mishaps here and there. Some stories better than the other. But a good read nonetheless.

However after reading each story I couldn’t shake the feeling of doing physical harm to the cheating. lying and abusing men.. After facing the troubles the women went through with their significant other also makes you question what a happy ending really is about and if it really was worth the trouble.

Review - Entangled By Jayne Fresina

2012-01-26T03:28:00.000-06:00

Title: Entangled

Author: Jayne Fresina

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Entangled Here!

Rating: You Need/Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

A Private Collection

Daisy Wellfleet needs a husband if she means to keep control of her grandfather’s hotel. Lawrence Bailey, wounded in a mine explosion, needs somewhere to recuperate. For a marriage of convenience he sounds entirely suitable.

But the man who shows up, three days late, is not what she expected from his letters. He’s too healthy, too handsome, and generally just too much of everything. Now Daisy can only wish Lawrence Bailey would stop distracting her, before she falls in love— the last thing a fiercely independent woman needs.

And Lawrence Bailey has a secret. He’s just not himself. He’s not Lawrence Bailey at all, but Luke Blackwood. If only he could untangle everything, start at the beginning again. If only she’d let him get a word in edgeways, because falling in love is the last thing a sensible, solitary man needs.

Review:

From the very beginning of the story, Luke and Daisy have an electrifying connection. Clumsy, bumbling Luke falls immediately under the vibrant Daisy’s spell. With a small misunderstanding on Daisy’s part, Luke takes tremendous advantage of her, claiming her for his own.

Ms. Fresino’s words fly off the page to paint a picture that lives and breathes. Her characters come alive with spirit and vitality, learning each other even as we learn them. Vivid descriptions make the world in which Luke and Daisy live easily visible to this reviewer, and their passion for each other makes my heart beat faster. Awesome book, awesome series.

Review – Her Chrystal Chameleon By Empress LaBlaque

2012-01-26T03:26:00.000-06:00

Title : Black Satin Confessions: Her Chrystal Chameleon

Author: Empress LaBlaque

Publisher: Red Rose Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Her Chrystal Chameleon Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By :Rasia

Blurb :

Rustin lives in Chloe’s basement. Though he pays rent, he also teaches her the fundamentals of making love. If Chloe’s husband discovers their luscious tenant isn’t gay, heads will fly. With his chestnut hair and dreamy eyes, Rustin is a real head turner; a mouthwatering treat, even to men

Review :

Chloe has been married to Barron for seven years. The past years Barron barely spends time at home, with his wife and daughter. Which made Chloe reach out for Rustin, a fellow attendant of the sociology class she is following. She got to know Rustin when they were paired up for an assignment. At first they both keep their distance since they are both in a serious relationship with another. But sexual tension flared and couldn’t be denied any longer. When Rustin needs a new apartment Chloe suggests him to move in to their basement. Rustin accepts the offer but how will the explain to Barron?

Easy, Chloe introduces Rustin as her gay friend from sociology class. Thus continuing their affair. Barron has no problem letting Rustin stay but avoids him at all cost. Which makes Rustin suspect that Barron might be gay. When Rustin poses this to Chloe she lashes out, there’s no way Barron is gay, is he?

This book makes up for the previous one, the conversations and the chemistry between Chloe and Rustin are very enjoyable. As the reader you really get the feeling they love each other. The possessiveness Rustin shows when Chloe mentions spending time with Barron only confirms to that feeling. Rustin will do anything to have Chloe all for himself, who doesn’t wish for that kind of man.

Series Review:

Overall the anthology is well written, a few grammar mishaps here and there. Some stories better than the other. But a good read nonetheless.

Review – Enraptured By Jayne Fresina

2012-01-25T03:21:00.000-06:00

Title: Enraptured (A Private Collection)

Author: Jayne Fresina

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Enraptured Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

A Private Collection

Harry Blackwood has a rule never to sleep with a woman younger than thirty. But he’s also never been to a ball uninvited, stripped naked over tea in a quiet parlor, stepped inside a male bordello, been spanked by anyone other than his father, or become emotionally involved in another person’s life. And within a few hours, all that will change.

Christina Deveraux is nineteen, untamable as a hellcat and determined to enjoy Harry Blackwood’s abundant favors the moment he drops his trousers in her front parlor. As for his silly rules— she’s never met a rule she couldn’t break. After all, it is only sex, it’s her trade now she’s been left to manage her mother’s house of sin, and she has enough theory advice from a set of explicit diaries.

Now she wants to put text into practice. And Harry just happens to be the perfect study mate.

Review:

Bitter disappointment engulfs Harry Blackwood when he realizes that the woman he is lusting after is only nineteen years old. And he’s almost twice her age. Frustratingly stubborn, Christina Deveraux is a temptress he simply cannot deny, and so he becomes a slave to her beauty and her passion.

Christina wants nothing more than to keep him enraptured, but she fears, and rightfully so, that he will enchant her, enslave her to his every whim until there is nothing left of her will. Harry Blackwood is just too much for her, but how will she live without him?

It isn’t often that an author can write an erotic romance with enough wit to leave readers laughing, enough raw emotion to make them cry, and enough steaming hot sex to raise their heart rate and kick-start their libidos. Ms. Fresino has done all that with her Blackwood trilogy, and I am enthralled!

Review – Caught in a Spider’s Web By Empress LaBlaque

2012-01-25T03:19:00.000-06:00

Title : Black Satin Confessions: Caught in a Spider’s Web

Author: Empress LaBlaque

Publisher: Red Rose Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Caught in a Spider’s Web Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By :Rasia

Blurb :

Vestal Davis has a terrible crush on her supervisor, Cason Bridges. Cason does not realize Vestal exists until he uses her to make his ex-girlfriend jealous. .Suddenly Cason becomes smitten by Vestal’s charming personality, and falls hard for her. After a few years, something about his past is still haunting him.

Finally, Cason goes back to his ex lover and Vestal finds herself out in the cold. When Karen takes Cason to see how terrible Vestal is getting along without him, Cason realizes he really did love her.

Will she take him back and is revenge really sweet?

Review :

Vestal has always loved Cason, Cason on his time uses that love for his own benefit, to make his ex-girlfriend Karen jealous. De pretense leads to them getting married and having a child on the long run. But things go downhill when Vestal doesn’t get her old figure back. Vestal suspects he’s been cheating on her with Karen, when Vestal confronts him he denies and the fight takes a disastrous turn when Cason want to divorce her. She agrees and leaves the following day with their child.

The story has been written in a third person perspective making it hard to relate to the characters and to get into the story. There’s no chemistry between the characters and as a reader I get the feeling Cason hasn’t loved Vestal or their child at all. What father would divorce his wife leaving here with nothing, not even child support. Furthermore he doesn’t ask for a joined custody of their child, in fact no measures are taken at all to see the child.

After reading the first two books, I was disappointed in this one. The storyline was good but wasn’t worked out correctly.

Series Review:

Overall the anthology is well written, a few grammar mishaps here and there. Some stories better than the other. But a good read nonetheless.

Review – Engraved By Jayne Fresina

2012-01-24T03:10:00.000-06:00

Title: Engraved (A Private Collection)

Author: Jayne Fresina

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Engraved Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

A Private Collection

When Adam Blackwood first lays eyes on the woman of his lusty fantasies, he’s a young man with too much arrogance and not enough self-control. She rejects his clumsy advances and deeply wounds his pride. Six years later the wound remains, but other things have changed. He’s grown up. She’s widowed and alone. And this time, she wants something from him.
Evangeline always knew Adam was dangerous. He aroused emotions and desires she’d learned to suppress. But now he’s back with a proposition and a secret from her past. A little blackmail is hardly a gentlemanly method of getting her into bed, but what else can she expect from a Blackwood?
Perhaps, for just one night, she’ll give him what he wants and indulge her own secret passion. Providing they never see one another again, what harm can it do?

Review:

The sensuality of Engraved is almost bewitching. Adam has wanted Lina for years, but she was married and not willing to break her marriage vows. Now that she is widowed, Adam has come back into her life, and this time he won’t take no for an answer. He will have her, and he will keep her.

Ms. Fresina’s writing is engrossing. She provides vivid descriptions, amusing dialect and a twisting plot that keeps you guessing to the end. Engraved is an excellent historical romance that made me crave another taste.

Review – My Italian Vendetta By Empress LaBlaque

2012-01-24T03:07:00.000-06:00

Title : Black Satin Confessions: My Italian Vendetta

Author: Empress LaBlaque

Publisher: Red Rose Publishing

Buy Link: Buy My Italian Vendetta Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By :Rasia

Blurb :

Nedra is terribly obese. Ruben is her gorgeous husband. Everyone knows he's using her for her daddy’s money and political pull. Ruben can’t seem to behave himself. In short, he’s a sensual package dressed as a mayor. When Nedra befriends a confident and elegant big gal, she teaches Nedra how to love herself. Suddenly, everyone is watching this Big Beautiful Gal, including her suspicious husband. It’s time for revenge!

Review :

The story revolves around Nedra who has a low self esteem because she’s overweight and her cheating husband Ruben rubs doesn’t help with that. He’s constantly making her feel bad about herself telling her how lucky she is to be his wife and has sex with anything female that throws herself at him. Every time he’s caught cheating he promises that it will not happen again. Hollow promises. After Nedra caught him in the act with a woman he supposedly hates, she’s bent on giving him a piece of his own medicine. On one of her walks through the park she meets Beatrice, also overweight but carries herself with grace and sensuality. Nedra approaches her and they bond instantly, and Beatrice offers to help. With her help Nedra changes her outer appearance and gains her confidence back. Beatrice introduces her cousin, Mathias to Nedra.

Mathias showers her with compliments which boosts her ego. Her husband gets suspicious when he sees all the changes in his wife. Will Nedra succumb to the temptation Mathias brings or will she stay faithful to her husband (even though he doesn’t deserve it).

The reader can easily relate to Nedra’s insecurity about her outward appearance, as is it well written. The relationships are taken to the background. Whereas the transformation of a shy woman with a low self esteem who has blossomed to a confident and sensual woman stands on front.

Series Review:

Overall the anthology is well written, a few grammar mishaps here and there. Some stories better than the other. But a good read nonetheless.

However after reading each story I couldn’t shake the feeling of doing physical harm to the cheating, lying and abusing men.. After facing the troubles the women went through with their significant other also makes you question what a happy ending really is about and if it really was worth the trouble.

Review – Dustin’s Gamble By J.J. Ranger

2012-01-23T03:04:00.000-06:00

Title : Dustin's Gamble

Author: J. J. Ranger

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy Link: Buy Dustin’s Gamble Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By : Jennifer

Blurb :

After leaving for a career in NYC, Shannon Piermont has come home to Bandera, Texas. Her cousin is getting married and her grandmother has died, but all she can think about is Dustin Dumen. The sexy ranch owner had once been able to charm her pants off, but not this time. Just because they’d once shared a passion hotter than the Texas sun, didn’t mean she’d settle for barefoot and pregnant in a one-horse town.

Dusty knew Shannon couldn't settle down until she'd seen the world and he'd taken a huge chance she'd find her way home. Now that she has, the stakes are higher and he'll do whatever it takes to keep her there. He’d gambled with their love once--he won't do it again.

Can Dustin convince Shannon she can have it all—a career and a family—or will he have to settle for one last ride of passion?

Review :

I love how Ms. Ranger tells a story in 70 pages and in that small space makes it believable. Shannon and Dustin are in depth characters that you can't help but cheer for. I love the setting of a western ranch. There's always something sexy about a cowboy on a ranch. I also love the sweet, happy ending. The story is a good fast read that you'll be glad you delved into.

Review – She By Empress LaBlaque

2012-01-23T03:02:00.000-06:00

Title : Black Satin Confessions: She

Author: Empress LaBlaque

Publisher: Red Rose Publishing

Buy Link: Buy She Here!

Rating : You Want To Read

Reviewed By :Rasia

Blurb :

SHE is Lyria Grayson. After leaving an abusive relationship, Lyria became a Pulitzer Prize winning author. While hosting a book signing, she met and married wealthy Ezra Westbrook. Although she has everything she wants, the past still haunts her. The house where her torture occurred still stands. She vowed that one day she would return and burn it to the ground. Finally, that day has arrived.

Review :

The story begins after her marriage with Ezra. In her flashbacks Lyria takes the reader to events in her past, the abusive relationship with her ex and how she met Ezra. Though Ezra knows that she was abused by her ex, Lyria didn’t tell him about the extent of the abuse.

Which results in him not understanding her need to burn down the house where she has suffered so much. Ezra tries to talk her out of it but she doesn’t listen to him and leaves to burn down the house behind his back.

The story has been written form Lyria’s point of view. What makes it really easy to relate to her feelings of anxiety and fear. In the story I miss the part of how she was discovered as an author. And why she didn’t report her abusive ex too the officials. But that doesn’t take away that it’s a great story of a woman who has overcome the abuse that has been done to her, and has learned to love and trust again with help from her husband.

Series Review:

Overall the anthology is well written, a few grammar mishaps here and there. Some stories better than the other. But a good read nonetheless.

Review – Dreamers By Shawn Dalton Smith

2012-01-18T02:48:00.000-06:00

Title: Dreamers

Author: Shawn Dalton Smith

Publisher: Red Sage Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Dreamers Here!

Rating: You Want/Need to read

Reviewed By: Abby

Blurb:

Somiar Ayers always thought it was really cool that she could control her dreams. In one night, her world is shattered when she finds out not only is she adopted, but she comes from a race of female assassins called Dreamers. While in a dream state, Dreamers can astral project anywhere, any time. Since they don’t leave fingerprints or DNA they can literally get away with murder. Now that her biological mother is caught, she has been charged to get her back. At any cost. With the help of her adoptive mother, Somiar is in a race against time.

Can she find her mother before Malachi finds out she is the key to the Dreamer he’s been seeking for years? Or will she find her whole life has been a lie?

Malachi Walker is a Dream Catcher who has been hunting Dreamers for the past seven years. Particularly the Dreamer that killed his best friend. When he saves Somiar Ayers from a Dreamer, he can’t believe his luck. If he can keep her alive, he can catch the one Dreamer that has haunted him most of his adult life.

But as the past descends on them, and webs of deceit are untangled, he starts to wonder. Who will save him from her?

Content Warning: Explicit Sex

Review:

Amazing! I do not know if this review will give appropriate justice to not only the storyline but the presentation. Dreamers, is a story of heartfelt emotion. The emotion is not subject to one area but it covers all areas from joy, love, laughter, new found discoveries to loss and heartache

This was a really great sweet romance that is so hard to come by these days. Touching, emotional, sexy, this paranormal really packed a sexy studly punch. Mrs. Smith has really done a wonderful job not only showcasing the setting but in her ability to keep the reader...me...engaged and interested. I find that with some paranormals they get a little over the top or lack enough description for me to "stay up with the story". Totally not the case with this one, she did an excellent job of bringing out the emotions of human beings in the purest of forms.

A Dreamy Novel about two people destined to destroy each other but fated to be together, Dreamers is a sweet romance with sweet sex. Mrs. Smith’s characters were realistic, likable and endearing. The plot was one almost everyone can relate to. The ending was heartwarming, A very romantic dream, a true LOVE story.

Review - Dillon's Claim By Callie Croix

2012-01-18T02:46:00.000-06:00

Title: Dillon's Claim

Author: Callie Croix

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy link: Buy Dillon's Claim Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Charissa Myers attends a bachelorette weekend at a Texas guest ranch, knowing she'll have to confront Dillon Dumen. The sexy cowboy is everything she's ever wanted in a man but, gun-shy after a previous BDSM encounter gone bad, she denied her need to submit to the irresistible Dom. She expects his anger, but what she doesn't expect is Dillon's determination to finish what they started all those months ago.

Dillon doesn't understand what spooked Charissa in the first place, but now that she's on his turf, he wants a hell of a lot more from her than answers. He's got two days to weaken her resistance and stake his claim once and for all. And this time, he's not letting her go without a fight.

Review:

Dillon was friends with Charissa until they shared a kiss that was a little too hot for her to handle. I almost felt as if I was missing a piece of the puzzle, as if there were more things that had happened in a previous book that I had somehow missed before starting this one. I was not quite sure how the two characters had been friends, where they had met or what had led up to them becoming friends if they were so different and lived in different worlds. Despite this unclear beginning to the characters' relationship, the book was sexy and fun. While there were BDSM elements, it was not an excessively wild book.

Ms. Croix's characters were very likable, the sex scenes were hot, and they lived happily ever after. Overall an enjoyable, spicy read.

Review – Defying The Odds By Kele Moon

2012-01-17T02:44:00.000-06:00

Title: Defying the Odds

Author: Kele Moon

Publisher: Loose ID

Buy link: Buy Defying the Odds Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

When struggling waitress Melody Dylan gives a handsome, lonely stranger a simple gift she has no clue her life is about to take a drastic turn.

The stranger ends up being Clay Powers, a famous UFC heavyweight fighter. Clay’s large build and dangerous fists have always intimidated. People in his hometown keep their distance and Clay is fine with that. Everything changes when a new waitress at the local diner buys him a piece of pie on Thanksgiving. Touched by the gesture when it’s obvious she can barely afford to survive, her warm smile and lush body churn up powerful feelings that leave Clay wanting more from her than pie.

Melody is running from her past and the small, country town of Garnet is the perfect hiding place. With an ex-husband after her and scars from her abusive marriage etched deep, the last thing she expects is to fall for a man who makes a living with his fists, but she can’t resist Clay or the tender connection they share.

Finding love in the most unlikely of places, the passion is undeniable, but Clay and Melody know their haunted pasts and unpredictable futures leave the odds stacked against them.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: violence.

Review:

Clay is the Powerhouse, the UFC heavyweight world champion who lives to fight, but he has a lonely life and not much hope for more. Melody is a survivor of spousal abuse, but feels emotionally broken and alone, always running from her ex. When these two characters meet, sparks begin to ignite and flames soon burn, and suddenly two broken, lonely people find that together they can be whole.

Ms. Moon has written a magical, romantic story where two hearts mend the broken pieces of each other. Defying the Odds is both heartwarming and erotic, with sizzling sex and lovable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to Jules and Wyatt finding their soul mates.

Review - Deacon’s Touch By Callie Croix

2012-01-17T02:42:00.000-06:00

Title: Deacon’s Touch

Author: Callie Croix

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy link: Buy Deacon’s Touch Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

After her own engagement goes to hell, workaholic Jessica Talbot dreads her friend’s bachelorette party at a dude ranch in Nowheresville, Texas. But the outlook for the weekend brightens when Deacon Dumen picks her up at the airport. The sexy cowboy awakens every dormant sexual fantasy with nothing more than a friendly smile and a handshake.

Ex-Air Force Pararescueman Deke Dumen doesn’t know what to make of the sexy yet reserved brunette who breaks through the walls he built after an injury ended his career and a divorce soured him on relationships. As a guest at his family’s ranch Jessie is off limits, the Dom in him rebels at the restriction, even as he realizes his penchant for control in the bedroom would likely scare the holy hell out of her.

When Jessie shocks Deke by asking for exactly what he’s been craving, he’s ready to break the rules and introduce her to his own brand of dominance. Her willing surrender rocks them both to the core. But once the weekend’s over, they must decide if it was just a wild fling or the start of something more.

Review:

Deacon’s Touch is a luscious, erotic story with a sexy cowboy and shy stock broker who discover that love can conquer all. While this is a book with BDSM elements, it is very mild. Ms. Croix’s characters definitely have chemistry, with the hero as an alpha male and the heroine as an undiscovered submissive. The sex scenes are steamy and the plot is believable, however I wasn’t sure how the bachelorette picked a dude ranch as her bachelorette party venue. Overall, an enjoyable read.

Review – Cowboy Casanova By Lorelei James

2012-01-16T14:41:00.001-06:00

Title: Cowboy Casanova

Author: Lorelei James

Publisher: Samhain

Buy link: Buy Cowboy Casanova Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

His rough touch makes her lose control...

Rough Riders, Book 12

In Sundance, Wyoming, you can’t throw a boot without hitting a McKay cowboy, so Ben McKay is used to fading into the background. Except on weekends, when he’s Bennett, imposing Dom at The Rawhide Club, surrounded by a bevy of female subs eager for the attention of his long…whip.

As for the curvy brunette eying him from across the room? He’ll eat his Stetson if she's the experienced Domme she claims to be. Bennett offers her a deal—he’ll let her call the shots for one night. But the next night he gets to prove to her how freeing it'll be when he takes the reins.

Ainsley Hamilton is amazed by how well Bennett read her every secret yearning during that one explosive weekend—and she's stunned when they come face to face in their everyday lives as rancher and new bank president. Now Ben’s urging her to explore her submissive side outside the club, and there’s something in his commanding gaze that makes it too easy to let him take control—of her desires and her pleasure.

Can Ben help Ainsley overcome her fear that a relationship built on dark sexual appetites won’t survive the light of day?

Product Warnings - This book contains a lot of kinky sex. No, seriously, there's A LOT of kinky cowboy sex in this Rough Riders installment. You've been warned.

Review:

What can I say about this book? Whew-wee! It is HOT! This may be the twelfth book in the Rough Riders series, but it is the first one with specific Dom/sub elements of BDSM, and it was extremely arousing. Most of the previous books in this series have wild, hard-bodied cowboys ropin’ their fillies. But what Bennett does with Ainsley’s own clothes? Mmm-hmm. It definitely shows how a real cowboy can use anything and everything at his disposal to round up and hog-tie females of any species. And for those readers who are not into the BDSM scene, trust me, you will love this book anyway!

Ms. James is a master at creating drool-worthy cowboys who know how to treat a woman right…even if it takes them a while to figure it out and they spend a lot of time making up for their original stupidity. In Cowboy Casanova, Ben and Ainsley have an electrifying chemistry that screams sex, and I just love the dual personalities that Ben/Bennett faces in his struggle to fit in with the community yet still connect with his darker side. Cowboy Casanova was one of the best installments of the Rough Riders series yet, and I can’t wait for the next book!

Review – Convincing Quinn By Chloe Cole

2012-01-16T14:34:00.001-06:00

Title: Convincing Quinn

Author: Chloe Cole

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy link: Buy Convincing Quinn Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book one in the Rock Hard series.

Quinn Myles loves her life. She’s in a kick-ass rock band and they’re on their way to the big-time. If only her two band-mates hadn’t told her how they felt, she could have controlled her own desires. And choosing between them might tear the band apart.

Rex Campbell used to enjoy life on the road and the groupies that came with it. That was before he realized he was mad crazy about Quinn Myles. He knows he’s the man for her, and if it takes sharing her with Beau once to prove it, he will.

Beau’s willing. Now, to convince Quinn…

Review:

Quinn is in love with Rex, and Rex is in love with Quinn. Beau thinks he's in love with Quinn, and Quinn loves Beau...as a friend. One night of wild sex makes things crystal clear for one of them and leaves the band in jeopardy of falling apart.

A wild ride of fast paced sex and wantonness, Convincing Quinn is a quickie with a lustful punch. Ms. Cole has pumped a lot of emotion into a very short story. Interesting dialog between characters, super steamy sex and a realistic plot make this a very entertaining read.

Review – Caught Offside By Liz Crowe

2012-01-15T01:59:00.000-06:00

Title: Caught Offside (1Night Stand series)

Author: Liz Crowe

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Caught Offside Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By Donna

Blurb:

Ramon Castillo, world famous soccer player and international playboy has been brought low by a career-ending injury. After the humiliation of a shattered leg at the World Cup final, he has spent a year enduring surgeries and painful therapies, the last three months of which are at the Castillo resort in Las Vegas under the watchful eye of his cousin, Jackson Castillo and owner of the Castillo hotel chain. But Ramon’s lack of interest in soccer, women, or in anything besides the blackjack tables has Jackson worried.

Gillian Winter, catering and banquet manager for the MGM Grand Hotel is nurturing her own deep wounds. Her beloved husband has died unexpectedly, leaving her with a young son whose one dream is to meet his hero: Number 17 on the American National Soccer team, Ramon Castillo. When an apparent chance encounter in the lobby of the MGM reveals Ramon's presence in their midst, everyone's lives are changed forever.

Can Madame Eve work her magic and bring true healing to Ramon and Gillian? Or is it too late?

Review:

In typical Madame Eve fashion, Ramon and Gillian don't stand a chance of escaping the matchmaking skills of 1NightStand, the exclusive dating service whose long-term success rate belies the name. Ramon is a damaged playboy, an injured soccer player who may never be able to play the sport he loves again after a horrible accident during the World Cup game. Gillian is a broken woman, a widowed mother who gave up her game to start a family. Can these two soccer-loving wounded hearts heal each other's pain?

Ms. Crowe has written a sweet, romantic short story with a sexy hero, gorgeous heroine and chemistry between the two that is love at first sight. Caught Offside is a fun and easy read with steamy sex and a soccer theme.

Review – Catch Me If You Can By Stacey Espino

2012-01-15T01:58:00.000-06:00

Title: Catch Me If You Can

Author: Stacey Espino

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy link: Buy Catch Me If You Can Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Christina is an ordinary woman, working a dead-end job as a bank teller. When her late grandmother gives her the gift of a luxury vacation, she looks forward to the break from reality. But instead of an upscale resort, she arrives at a working ranch with three dead sexy cowboys. They may not offer to give her the spa treatment, but they're eager to please her in other ways.

Just when the relationship between Christina and her cowboys moves to the next level, she's forced to leave the ranch in order to protect the men she loves. She runs from them, knowing that if they catch her, she won't be able to stay away. But being together seems destined to failure. Can they overcome the obstacles facing their loving ménage?

Review:

Noah, Jake and James are blind-sided by emotion when a sexy city-slicker moves in with them for a two month vacation. Christina’s grandmother had been a friend of theirs, and they had promised to help Christina loosen up and lose some of the insecurities and inhibitions that she had developed. As far as the cowboys are concerned, her love for the mustangs that run free on the range just solidifies the fact that she belongs on the ranch with her cowboys and the mustangs.

Ms. Espino has a wanton imagination, and she has written a seductive tale of unconventional love. Her characters are sexy and lovable, the plot is a bit far-fetched but believable, and the setting feels solid and comfortable. My chief complaint with this story is the number of typos and grammatical errors that were sprinkled throughout the book. Otherwise, there are some awesome, sizzling sex scenes and love-conquering-all moments that conclude with a happily ever after in this erotic ménage love story.

Review- By My Side By Michele Zurlo

2012-01-14T01:56:00.000-06:00

Title: By My Side

Author: Michele Zurlo

Publisher: Loose ID

Buy Link: Buy By My Side Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Marcella Abbot has worked for Sean Winquist for more than a year. As his personal assistant, she manages nearly every aspect of his life. He’s a dom and she’s a submissive. Through their year working together, they’ve become friends and colleagues, but Marcella yearns for more. She’s in love with Sean, and she’s frustrated that he can’t see past her efficient exterior.

When Sean’s submissive for a BDSM benefit show cancels unexpectedly two days before the event, Marcella jumps at the chance to take her place. Sean wants Marcella, but he’s afraid to let the walls of professionalism come tumbling down and risk losing her.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and elements, spanking.

Review:

Marcella has been in love with her boss for almost a year. As his personal assistant, she knows exactly what he is doing with all of the other women that he meets. Over the course of the past year, the number of women he spent time with has dwindled to only one remaining submissive, and she just called to cancel their next meeting. Now, can Marcella convince Sean that she is willing and able to submit to him in any way that he desires?

By My Side is an endearing romance with an erotic BDSM theme. Heart thumping sex scenes, blood pumping romance, emotional investment and wishes being fulfilled are Michele Zurlo’s gift to her readers.

Review – Breaking Beau By Chloe Cole

2012-01-14T01:53:00.000-06:00

Title: Breaking Beau

Author: Chloe Cole

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Breaking Beau Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book two in the Rock Hard series.

When Rex and Quinn hire a chef to come on tour with the band, Beau Trudeau finds a welcome distraction in quirky Gigi Somerville. She’s not his type at all, but she’s fun to have around, and she’s sort of growing on him…

If Gigi wants to start the business she’s worked so hard for, she needs something big to happen. When the members of Hank Lemon and the Law contact her to cook for them during their summer concert tour, she’s elated. Not only is this a dream opportunity, when she meets Beau Trudeau, she realizes she can kill two birds with one stone. He’s the perfect guy to foist her unwanted virginity upon before she has to go back to the real world and fifteen-hour workdays. He’s scorching hot but, even better, he has no interest in a relationship. In fact, he’s so perfectly wrong for her, there’s nochance of her actually falling for him…

Review:

Beau is a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy with groupies vying for his attention in every town. Gigi is a hard working loner who has never had time for romance. When they meet, the instant chemistry between them is impossible to ignore. Thankfully, one of the band members is playing matchmaker and loving every second of it.

Seductive and sweet, Breaking Beau is a short story with steamy sex scenes (literally), a realistic plot, lovable characters and enough oomph to make it a fantastic read. Even as the second book in the Rock Hard series, it could easily have been a stand-alone. I am definitely wondering what on earth happened to poor Tai, and will there be another installment to satisfy that craving?

Review – Brawn By Laurann Dohner

2012-01-13T01:52:00.000-06:00

Title: Brawn

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Brawn Here!

Rate: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

New York Times and USA Today best selling book!

Book 5 in the New Species series.

One look at Brawn, and Becca is wondering how he’d look without his clothes. He’s also instantly attracted to her, but has sworn never to touch a human female. They just aren’t sturdy enough for the type of rough sex Brawn enjoys most. When he learns he’ll be living under the same roof with Becca, Brawn simply sees it as a chance to broaden his knowledge of humans. Hopefully he can do so while keeping his hands off her…

His good intentions go astray when they’re both kidnapped and locked together in a cage. Brawn finds himself reliving a nightmare when he’s once again subjected to breeding experiments at the hands of New Species’ enemies—who will use Becca to get what they want. Brawn and Becca will have to depend on each other if they hope to survive.

Reader Advisory: While each New Species book is a standalone, the greatest enjoyment will come from reading them in series order.

Review:

Brawn is a Species who has sworn off human women. Becca has been burned by love before. They have to work as a team to survive their sudden captivity, but Brawn wants more than her help once they are set free. He wants her, any way he can get her.

Becca is the daughter of the infamous Tim Oberto, task force leader for the NSO. She is human and her daddy’s only child. She is protected to the point of being smothered by her father, and she fears that Tim will literally kill Brawn if he finds out that they have become involved.

I absolutely love this series! Laurann Dohner writes erotic romances with sci-fi themes, sexy characters, surprising plots and electrifying sex. Brawn is the fifth book in the series, but each one has its own plot, its own unique character traits and its own allure. This series just keeps getting better.

Review – Blue Moon By Mackenzie McKade

2012-01-13T01:51:00.000-06:00

Title: Blue Moon

Author: Mackenzie McKade

Publisher: Samhain

Buy link: Buy Blue Moon Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Things aren't always what they seem…and that can be a really good thing.

Two years ago Samantha Dawson had everything she wanted—a close family, a promising career, and a man she loved. Until the night before her oldest sister’s wedding, a night of celebration and too much alcohol that tore her world apart. Devastated, she fled Oregon for Phoenix.
Now she’s home for her little sister’s wedding, and just her luck, the best man is her ex-boyfriend. Worse, no one involved in that fateful night seems to want to let the past die an ugly death.
Kyle Ackland has no memory of the events that destroyed his life, but he’ll never forget the woman who set his body on fire. Sam’s emotional barriers are as solid as the Cascade Mountains, but he’s determined to chip them away one sensual kiss at a time.
Yet even if he succeeds, what’s left of their love could crumble under the weight of past sins…and present secrets.

Product Warnings Contains betrayal, lies, and reacquainted love that sizzles the words right off the page.

Review:

Blue Moon is a seductive delight! Smoking hot sex is just the icing on the wedding cake for Samantha and Kyle. They shared a love that was beautiful and wonderful, but is it strong enough to overcome betrayal and mistrust? Ms. McKade’s characters have a sexual magnetism that seduce the reader, a realistic plot that is easy to relate to, and enough stirring romance to warm the heart. I would love to read Kyle's brother's story.

Review – Amber’s Muse By Lacey Wolfe

2012-01-12T19:49:00.002-06:00

Title: Amber's Muse

Author: Lacey Wolfe

Publisher: Beachwalk Press

Buy Link: Buy Amber’s Muse Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Sometimes it’s the person you least expect who can satisfy all your desires.

By day Amber’s a librarian, and by night she hides away writing erotic romance novels. She has just one problem—not enough sexual experience to pull from. A recent steamy dream leaves Amber wondering if her neighbor Jax might be just the guy who can help her. He seems almost perfect to use as a sexual guinea pig, especially since she doesn’t have to worry about falling in love with him.

Jax has lived next door to Amber for a year and has tried everything he can think of to get her to notice him, but it hasn’t worked. Until recently. When Amber approaches him asking for his help, he’s ready to jump on board. When he learns exactly what kind of help she needs, he’s definitely willing.

Becoming involved with someone like Jax simply isn’t an option for Amber. He barely works, can’t manage his money, and has no ambition in life. So why does he suddenly seem so right for her?

Content Warning: explicit sex

Review:

Amber's Muse is a little story with big passion. Amber needs help, and Jax is all too willing to give it to her. The chemistry between these two characters is palpable, and the sex is fiery hot. When Amber tries to take what she wants from Jax while keeping him at arm’s length, he decides to give her a taste of her own medicine.

Ms. Wolfe writes stories with loads of emotion. I wanted to smack Amber for being so self centered and I wanted to hug Jax for being hurt. Amber’s Muse is a great story, very easy to read with good descriptions, seductive dialect and electrifying sex scenes.

Review – 8 Ways Onto The Naughty List By Rita Sawyer

2012-01-12T19:48:00.001-06:00

Title: 8 Ways Onto The Naughty List

Author: Rita Sawyer

Publisher: Pink Petal Books

Buy link: Buy 8 Ways Onto The Naughty List Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

For two years, Patsy had been working for, and lusting after, her boss, Dexter. Unable to keep hiding her feelings she tries to quit, but her boss refuses to let her out of her contract. Furious, she devises a plan to get herself fired, but everything she does fails to make him mad. She even goes as far as coming onto him, but instead of firing her, he says he wants to take things between them to a more personal level. Now she’s wondering if he’s serious or just trying to keep his assistant?

Review:

8 Ways Onto the Naughty List is a sensual tease. A short story about a CPA and his sexy assistant, the book boasts funny, lovable characters with plenty of chemistry. There is no actual sex in the book, but the flirting is enough to make sparks fly. The ending is a tiny bit unrealistic with a proposal before the first date, but I suppose if I had been lusting after a man for two years and he flew me to a secluded, private, tropical bungalow, I might say "yes", too!

There were a few minor grammatical errors, but for the most part, this was an extremely enjoyable, easy read.

Review – Fool Me Once By Lacey Wolfe

2011-12-23T03:26:00.000-06:00

Title: Fool Me Once

Author: Lacey Wolfe

Publisher: Beachwalk Press

Buy Link: Buy Fool Me Once Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice…

Drew is the last person Skylar wanted to see across from her at a local bar. A month ago he’d wined and dined her all weekend, leaving her feeling fully in love, but then she awoke alone in an empty hotel room and she hadn’t heard from him since.

The weekend Drew spent with Skylar was phenomenal. There had never been anyone who made him feel as complete as she did. He shouldn’t have disappeared, he should have called, but his feelings for her scared him, so he distanced himself. But when he saw her again, he knew he couldn’t stay away any longer.

Skylar’s determined not to give Drew another chance to hurt her, but he’s just as determined to win her back. Although it won’t be easy, he’s up to the challenge, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish his goal.

Content Warning: Explicit Sex

Review:

Skylar met the perfect man. And he left her without a word after a perfect weekend. Hurt and heartbroken, she is determined to not let one man ruin her outlook on love and dating. When she sees Drew with another woman a month after his disappearing act, she lets anger replace the hurt. No way will she let herself be drawn back to the man whose charm is addictive.

Drew realized that he had screwed up. Big time. Seeing Skylar turn her back on him and walk away was crushing. One weekend with her had left him dazed and confused. Too confused to even call her and explain why he’d left her. But seeing her again just solidified the knowledge that he had to have her in his life. Permanently.

A short story about two people fated to be together, Fool Me Once is a sweet romance with some hot sex. Ms. Wolfe's characters were realistic, likable and endearing, the plot was one almost everyone can relate to, and the ending was heartwarming. A very enjoyable read.

Review – Redeeming Zorus By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-23T03:25:00.000-06:00

Title : Redeeming Zorus

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy Link: Buy Redeeming Zorus Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Story Blurb:

Book 6 in the Cyborg Seduction series.

Charlie’s brother has put her in the no-win situation of having to rescue a cyborg from Earth Government. It’s dangerous, she’ll become an outlaw on Earth, but it’s the only way to save her brother’s life. The imprisoned cyborg is rude, conceited and probably the biggest jerk she’s ever had the misfortune to meet. His only redeeming qualities are his handsome face and sexy, muscular body. Just wow! Still, she can’t wait to be rid of him.

All cyborgs hate humans, but Zorus is consumed by it. Chained, enslaved and facing death on Earth once again, he vows revenge. To his utter astonishment, a human female comes to his rescue. She’s rude, mouthy and bossy. And very brave. She baffles him almost as much as she arouses him. Zorus cannot deny that he’s fascinated by her. They are about to lock wills and ignite a firestorm of desire that defies every rule he lives by.

Review:

Zorus is disliked by his own people for the choices he has made, but everything he has done has been for the benefit of cyborgs as a whole. Charlie must have ‘sucker’ written across her forehead, because she let her brother talk her into another dangerous situation to save his hide. Sparks fly and tempers flare as soon as Zorus is released, however he quickly realizes that Charlie is not only noble and compassionate, but also brave and…beautiful.

Laurann Dohner has taken sci-fi to another level. An erotic, riveting arena where cyborgs battle androids and love still conquers all. Ms. Dohner continues to use vivid descriptions that paint a wonderful picture of life in space and on alien planets. Her characters have depth and the plot is gripping. You won’t want to put this book down.

Review – Back To Life By Emma Hillman

2011-12-23T03:24:00.000-06:00

Title: Back to Life

Author: Emma Hillman

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy link: Buy Back To Life Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Sara knows she should regret having sex with Jared, her former brother-in-law. But their erotic encounter is the best thing that’s happened to her all year. Thanks to his heady kisses and clever fingers, he’s made her feel alive again, and she can’t help but yearn for more.
Jared has been waiting for this moment for months. Finally Sara sees him as more than a former in-law. He’s a man in love and not afraid to show it, determined to give her everything she needs, in and out of the bedroom.

Their blossoming relationship isn’t to everybody’s liking. With insecurities rising and tempers igniting, Sara and Jared will have to decide what’s more important, making everyone else happy…or making each other happy.

Review:

Back to Life is a story about Sara returning to the living after suffering the death of her beloved husband. Jared had always had a crush on his sister-in-law, and after the death of his brother, he allowed his feelings to grow for his sweet, innocent, unknowingly seductive Sara. When Sara decides that it is time to move on with her life and find someone new, Jared has no intention of letting any man near her but him.

Ms. Hillman's writing is tender and sweet, arousing and poignant. Her characters were very endearing and it was easy to commiserate with their situation. The sex scenes were erotic and passionate and the plot very realistic. Overall this was a great short story.

Review – Stealing Coal By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-22T03:20:00.000-06:00

Title: Stealing Coal

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Stealing Coal Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book 5 in the Cyborg Seduction series.

Jill has learned the hard way that men can’t be trusted and sex only causes pain. In the lawlessness of space, women are a sexual commodity—to be used and abused. She’s doing a man’s job, with only her father’s brutal reputation and three androids to help keep her alive when she sees a massive, handsome cyborg chained to a freight table. The abusive crew plans to sell him to fight in gruesome death matches. It’s stupid, it’s insane, but Jill can’t leave him to such a horrible fate.

Coal has survived being a captive breeding slave and irreversible damage to his cyborg implants, but his honor is still intact. He’s grateful Jill saved him and he’ll repay her the only way he can. He’ll fix her—with his mouth, his hands and his body. He can teach the little human just how much pleasure she’s capable of feeling.

Review:

I honestly don't know how she does it... This is Laurann Dohner fifth book in the Cyborg Seduction series, and all five of them are completely unique. They all have vivid descriptions, amusing dialect, alternately heartwarming and heart-wrenching plots, but they offer very different characters with varied and diverse personalities, problems and gifts. I have enjoyed every one of these books, especially the super hot sex scenes and the emotional roller coasters that the characters ride, but the action and adventure themes are present, too. Everyone who enjoys a little erotica with your sci-fi will thoroughly love these books. I can't wait to read book 6!

Review – The Last Princess By Stacey Espino

2011-12-22T03:18:00.000-06:00

Title: The Last Princess

Author: Stacey Espino

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy link: Buy The Last Princess Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Pack Seduction, 3

Delia is the last princess. Since her sisters have chosen mates, it's up to her to continue to wage war against the royal family. She recruits the help of Caleb, a fox shifter, to help find her way to the home she escaped from long ago.

A childhood friend is now guarding the palace, and the male she's betrothed to is determined to have her. She's in for the fight of her life if she's to remain unmated and change the old customs passed down to every generation. Will Delia become a martyr for her cause, or give in to the love of three determined shifters?

Be Warned: menage a quatre romance, menage sex, anal sex.

Review:

A delicious short story about the trials and troubles of being a Royal Princess in the shifter world, The Last Princess is full of passion, chemistry and animal instincts taking over under the full moon. An arousing tale of belonging and love-conquering-all, this book has plenty of steamy sex, but there are sweet and tender moments, too. I was glad to see the sweet computer geek Caleb make a return in this book and finally find his princess mate. Delia is at last reunited with her sisters and they all live happily ever after. Woo-hoo! A great end to this wickedly wanton menage series.

Review – Touching Ice By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-21T03:17:00.000-06:00

Title: Touching Ice

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Touching Ice Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book 4 in the Cyborg Seduction series.

What can go wrong overseeing a bunch of android sex bots on an automated whorehouse in deep space? Great job, if Megan doesn’t die of boredom. Then she catches sight of the sexiest male she’s ever seen. On her grainy security monitor, she watches all his sexual exploits with the bots, and fantasizes. But that’s all she can do because he’s a cyborg. Then fate steps in.

There’s a crash and Megan must escape or die. The cyborgs are rescuing the sex bots—taking them onboard their ship. She knows cyborgs hate humans. They’ll kill her if she asks for help so she devises an insane plan—pretend to be the most realistic sex bot ever made.

His name is Ice, and Megan is now his personal sex bot. He will satisfy every sexual fantasy she’s ever had—and as many more as she can dream up. She just has to figure out how to keep her big, sexy cyborg from discovering that she is all woman.

Review:

Oh. My. Stars! Laurann Dohner has done it again with a sexy cyborg novel that makes your heart pound a little harder. The story evokes emotions that are completely unexpected with vivid descriptions, haunting experiences and, of course, a happily ever after.

There were a few more typo/grammatical errors in this novel than in the last few books, but the story was still awesome. Sizzling sex (as always) made this erotic, aliens and cyborgs made this sci-fi. An excellent addition to the Cyborg Seduction series. I can't wait for the next installment.

Review - The Sacred King By Laura Gill

2011-12-21T03:16:00.000-06:00

Title: The Sacred King

Author: Laura Gill

Publisher: Phaze Books

Buy Link: Buy The Sacred King Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

As the Achaean Greeks consolidate their hold on Minoan Crete, the former priestess Ariadne and her husband, the Achaean prince Taranos, struggle with both personal tragedy and political difficulties.

Centuries of Cretan tradition are overturned as a vicious Achaean mercenary becomes Sacred King and takes the new High Priestess as his concubine.

And when a handsome young hero arrives to rescue the beautiful Amaja, he finds he will need Ariadne, Taranos, and the gods of Crete to help him.

Review:

One of the hardest parts of writing a sequel is reintroducing the characters. You want to give enough information so a new reader can get to know them, but not so much that an old reader would be bored with the repeated information. This story falls more on the not enough information side. This makes the first part a little hard to get into, because there are a lot of characters who just appear without context of who they are or why they are there.

That said, the characters and story are wonderful. Everything feels very real and there is a great sense of urgency for the events taking place. The religion, which is large part of the story, has many great rites and rituals, and the characters feel very devout in their belief.

The climatic battle at the end is very intense, but I wonder if it isn’t for the wrong reasons. This is a moment the hero should shine, it is his crowning moment of awesome, but the story focuses more on his father and step mother as they watch the battle from above. The death blow even happens off screen. I just think the scene would be better if the focus had remained on the battle.

Overall, a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.

Review – Her Dark Knight By Sharon Cullen

2011-12-20T05:01:00.000-06:00

Title: Her Dark Knight

Author: Sharon Cullen

Publisher: Carina Press

Buy link: Buy Her Dark Knight Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewer: Wendy Mitchell

Blurb:

Madelaine Alexander is on a mission. When her boss sends her to the hottest nightclub in town to meet with the owner, she won't be deterred, even if that means standing in line for fifty-eight minutes in torturous heels while she'd rather be home in her pj's with a bowl of popcorn.

A Knight of the Templar, Christien Chevalier was given immortality along with the responsibility of protecting the treasure of the Templars. He's been unwavering in his task for centuries until his one true love—who died seven hundred years ago—shows up in his club, demanding his attention.

Christien couldn't protect Madelaine when they first fell in love. She was married to a lord and he was simply a knight. Now, through some unknown miracle, she stands before him again and they have a second chance. But Christien fears that Madelaine is being used as a pawn in a dangerous game, a game of good versus evil that could affect all of mankind...

Review:

Christien Chevalier was a Templar knight in the 14^th century charged with guarding the Templar’s most holy of treasures and also the means to bring about the Apocalypse Exhausted, sick, and grieving the loss of the woman he loved, he is ready to welcome death with the completion of his task. However death is not to be gifted to the Templar, for he is once again charged with protecting the treasure and now with the added burden of immortality. Now the wealthy and powerful owner of a nightclub in Milwaukee, Christien is totally unprepared when Madelaine Alexander walks into his life. She is the spitting image of his lost love, but she works for the evil who seeks his treasure. Even with all his years and wisdom, Chrisitien is unsure whether to trust his heart or his instincts.

This book was so much darker than I expected. I don’t know why I had lighter expectations because the Templars didn’t have a happy history and this story keeps the dark and tragic tradition going. This book is seriously intense and poses a lot of paradoxical questions. It is eminently obvious that Sharon Cullen put a lot of research into her book in order to maintain the realistic settings of the differing times and habits of the inhabitants. She has crafted a brilliantly overlapping tale of two completely different worlds that fold over and into each other and enable the reader to exist in both with very little effort.

The hero Christien is a hardened warrior and is terrified of hoping for the impossible. He just broke my heart and it was a struggle on my part to understand why so much tragedy had been heaped on this servant of God. It would certainly broken a man of lesser bearing. Madelaine is an innocent and still a tad naive . I’m not talking sexually, but in her outlook on life. She has had some hard knocks certainly, but she still holds onto her values and tries to put a decent face on everything. What I totally loved about Madelaine was even through her disbelief, when she made a situation worse or more dangerous, she accepted her mistakes and tried to rectify them. Christien and Madelaine’s love affair traversed the ages and defeated death. It is also one that will stay with me for quite awhile. Kudos for a job well done, Ms. Cullen.

Review – Freya's Mates By Stacey Espino

2011-12-20T04:59:00.000-06:00

Title : Freya's Mates

Author: Stacey Espino

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Freya's Mates Here!

Rating : You Need To Read

Reviewed By : Donna

Story Blurb :

Pack Seduction, 2

Freya's on her own, lost in a new city. Being of royal blood, every male shifter would kill to have her as a mate. Staying in hiding is her number one priority.

When hunger leads her to the rear of a night club in search of food, she comes across a human who arouses a new desire within her.
Once inside the club, she's caught skipping out on her bill and forced to deal with the club owner and bartender, both sexier-than-sin shifters. Will she be able to submit to the three men? Can there be a future with a human mate?

Be Warned: menage a quatre romance, menage sex, anal sex

Review :

In Ms. Espino's Pack Seduction series, the strictly forbidden becomes the norm, the wildly wicked becomes the basis for survival of the species. Not only are ménage relationships needed for Royals, they are expected and practically required.

Freya has been running for too long. She's ravenously hungry, bone weary and just plain tired of being alone. Her goal in life is to simply be wanted and loved for who she is and not what she can bring to her mate. When she finds herself unequivocally attracted to a human, she becomes conflicted. The human wants her, desires her, and he doesn’t even know that shifters exist. After letting her guard down just a bit, Freya allows two shifters to mate her, but she is still in love with her human, and he is in love with her. What’s a wolf shifter girl to do?

Freya's Mate was hard to put down and pleasantly exhilarating. With bone melting sex scenes, tons of alpha testosterone and a happily ever after, this is an awesome paranormal erotic book!

Review – The Diary of Anna’s Submission By Jenika Snow

2011-12-19T04:57:00.000-06:00

Title: The Diary of Anna’s Submission

Author: Jenika Snow

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Diary of Anna’s Submission Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Anna has dark and taboo desires that leave her feeling ashamed and unnatural. All she can think about is how it would feel to let a man possess her in the most primal of ways. Despite her inexperience, and the fact she is a virgin, she knows she wants to be at the mercy of a dominating man, one who can show her what it really means to submit.

When she is propositioned by Felix, a Dominant at the local BDSM club, Anna has to make the choice to either accept what Felix has to offer, or leave behind an experience that will forever change her life.

Deciding to let Master Felix train her in the art of being a true submissive, Anna takes a journey that will bare her soul, and leave her body deliciously sore.

Be Warned: bdsm, anal sex, sex toys, erotic asphyxiation

Review:

This story takes us on an intense journey. We join Anna on this ride. She is a virginal woman who is afraid and ashamed of her wants and desires until she meets a Dom who wants to teach her about herself and what it means to give in to her desires. Can Anna find it in herself to trust this man with not only her body but her heart as well?

I enjoyed the storyline of this book but found Anna a little to naive for my liking. I understand that she is a virgin and this story shows us how she blooms but she was a little too much for me. I would have also liked a bit more character development in this book. We really do not get to know the characters very well other than their sexual compatibility. I did however like the way this book shows that Anna learns that it is okay to want what she does and I loved the way that she embraces it. I would caution readers that this book contains strong BDSM play, which does include some asphyxiation play.

Through Anna’s diary we learn about her and the things she feels. Everything is through her eyes and we watch Anna grow with each entry. I would not mind visiting Anna and Felix again to learn more about them and just where this journey takes them.

Review – The Good Sinner’s Naughty Nun By Georgia Fox

2011-12-19T04:55:00.000-06:00

Title : The Good Sinner’s Naughty Nun

Author: Georgia Fox

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Good Sinner’s Naughty Nun Here!

Rating : You Need To Read

Reviewed By : Donna

Story Blurb :

The Conquerors, 4

Thierry Bonnenfant has a mission to fulfill - transport a padlocked casket of holy relics across the sea to Normandy. Sounds easy enough, until he finds that his fellow travelers will be none other than a group of ...nuns.

Thierry was hoping for different company, something decidedly less virginal. Now, resolved to a very dull journey, where his only pleasure is arguing with a naughty, quarrelsome nun named Sister Vivienne, he has no warning of the storm ahead.

Vivienne is also on a mission. The priceless vase hidden inside that casket of relics is her pass to freedom. All she has to do is find the key in Bonnenfant's breeches. Apparently he's all brawn and no brains. Seducing him to get that key should be her easiest task ever.
But she's reckoned without this particular sinner's last remaining scruples. And the reckless, bloodthirsty warrior's only fear. Of nuns.

Be Warned: multiple partners, anal sex.

Review :

The Good Sinner’s Naughty Nun is a deliciously wicked story of ‘if only’ and ‘what if’ becoming ‘never ending love’ and ‘dreams come true’. This fourth book in the Conquerors series is the best installment yet.

Thierry Bonnenfant married a harridan to save his best friend from having to marry her, and as a reward, he was given a title and lands, neither of which he wanted. He is but a soldier out to do the king’s bidding and spread his loving attentions among the appreciative females of the populace.

Vivienne is a captive of her guardian’s schemes and she wishes for nothing more than freedom...until she meets Thierry Bonnenfant. The horrid things she has been forced to endure have not weakened her spirit, and her dreams are now filled with loving and being loved by that most notorious sinner.

Ms. Fox has written passion and zeal into her characters, making them high energy and lovable. Twists and turns and unexpected events help these characters find their happily ever after in a book that boasts a tantalizing nun, an irreparable rake, and exhilarating sex. A few minor grammatical errors were noted, but not enough to detract from the heartwarming (even though erotic) love story

Review – Captain's Virgin Fantasy By Abby-Rae Rose

2011-12-18T04:54:00.000-06:00

Title: Captain's Virgin Fantasy

Author: Abby-Rae Rose

Publisher: Noble Romance

Buy link: Buy Captain's Virgin Fantasy Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

He's changed everything . . . but she can't change the fact she loves him.

Victoria refuses to let Ishmael intimidate her. She's faced with a choice. Return to her life of duty, or embrace her spirit of adventure . . . and sail the high seas with the man who has captured her heart.

Captain Ishmael's demands are simple . . . . In exchange for his pleasure, and her body to quell his voracious lust, he will guarantee safe passage.

But, Ishmael plans don't include giving up his lover so easily. And once he gets a taste of Tori's sweet blend of innocence and boldness, he can't imagine living without her.

Review:

This is a fun, sweet, short story about a couple with empty nest syndrome. What married couple can't spice up thier love life with a little role playing? Ms. Rose has shown that a couple can have steamy encounters even after twenty-five years of marriage. Interesting plot, likable characters, overall a fun read.

Review – Melting Iron By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-18T04:53:00.000-06:00

Title: Melting Iron

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Melting Iron Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Blurb:

Book 3 in the Cyborg Seduction series.

Being a female mechanic on a space station for eight years has taught Dawn a lot of tough life lessons that have hardened her heart. She’s got a temper and a mouth to match her red hair and has never backed away from a challenge. Then she’s kidnapped and blackmailed into agreeing to be a cyborg’s personal sex slave.

Iron is one big bastard with long, fiery red hair, intense, dark blue eyes and a stubborn streak as thick as his dense muscles. If Iron thinks he can tame her, he’s about to learn that “meek” is not in Dawn’s vocabulary. But with that handsome face, a body to die for, a wickedly talented tongue and those magical hands, the guy just doesn’t fight fair.

Dawn is intent on melting Iron’s icy resolve to never fall in love with a human. He’s winning her heart and she’s determined to win his right back. These two redheads have just met their matches. Let the battle for love begin.

Reader Advisory: The big cyborg using his “research” on his new captive during a smoking-hot bondage scene. Woot!

Review:

Ms. Dohner has done it again. Sci-Fi erotica at its finest with cyborgs on spaceships and alien planets. Dawn is determined, Iron is firm. She will be his slave and he will only be with her. Super steamy sex, fantastical plot, not nearly a cookie cutter book from the same series as the first two, I was very pleased to see a whole new spin on the third book in this series. Awesome series, awesome book!

Review – Fool Me Once by Lacey Wolfe

2011-12-17T04:51:00.000-06:00

Title: Fool Me Once

Author: Lacey Wolfe

Publisher: Beachwalk Press

Buy Link: Buy Fool Me Once Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Brynna

Blurb:

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice…

Review:

After meeting what she thought was the perfect guy for her and spending an amazing weekend together, Skylar woke up alone with Drew promising to call. He didn't. One month later she bumps into him at a club and they quickly reignite their relationship. But Sky won't be fooled again, no matter how many happy ever after castles in the air Drew builds. Drew made a stupid mistake, when things got too emotional, he ran for the hills leaving Sky to pick up the pieces. Now he's realized she is the only woman he wants, forever. He just has to convince Sky to risk her heart one more time.

Fool Me Once is a quick, steamy read. These two characters can't seem to get enough of each other and Ms. Wolfe knows how to heat up the pages. The relationship is believable, but Sky did seem to forgive too easily. Still a great book you need to read.

Review – Something Wicked This Way Comes By Various Authors (Anthology)

2011-12-17T04:48:00.000-06:00

Title: Something Wicked This Way Comes - Volume 1

Authors: Laurann Dohner, Mel Teshco, Desiree Holt, Eliza Knight, Kathy Kulig, Jaid Black

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy Link: Buy Something Wicked This Way Comes Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Captain of Nara’s Heart

Laurann Dohner

Nara knew she was taking a risk with illegal trading. Sure enough, she’s been arrested, caged—and will be auctioned as a sex slave. One look at the scary alien buyers and she frantically makes a deal, agreeing to be sold to Captain Vellar, who turns out to be large, sexy and seriously in heat. Offering her body to the captain is a given…but Nara didn’t expect to lose her heart in the process.

Dragon Heat

Mel Teshco

A highly skilled operative, Grace has been trained to track, fight and kill paranormal creatures. Only after she’s in the clutches of her latest target, a devastatingly sexy dragon-shifter, does she discover betrayal in her ranks. Suddenly the hunter is the hunted. Grace will soon uncover her ex-agency’s horrific agenda—but not before seeking solace in all the pleasures of the flesh her new dragon ally has to offer.

Dangerous Addiction

Desiree Holt

Having finally realized his dream to own a ranch, Cord is ready for the next step—settling down with the perfect sub. And he’s found her in Fallon. A single glance from the smart, sultry beauty makes him hard, but abuse at the hands of her ex-Dom has kept Fallon away from the lifestyle she loves. Needs. It will take bondage, mind-blowing sex, a gentle hand and expert flogging for Cord to help her rediscover her favorite dangerous addition.

Highland Tryst

Eliza Knight

Having sworn off love, Kari Howard isn’t adverse to a little lust when a hot Highlander lands at her feet. Literally. Fin has traveled through time, and given what he’s packing under his kilt (good Lord!), Kari expects the sexy Scotsman to make her quake. But she doesn’t expect Fin to shake her very foundation…or cherish her for who she is.

Tattoo Witch

Kathy Kulig

There cannot be good without evil, light without dark… At a seaside resort, lovers Sam and Anita meet a mysterious, heavily tattooed couple who refers them to Sinful Designs. The owner is a witch whose magical tattoos grant scorching, kinky sex beyond their wildest fantasies—but there’s a catch. Each successive tattoo comes with a darker and scarier curse. Sam and Anita can break the spells…but at what cost?

The Addiction

Jaid Black

The long-awaited sequel to The Possession!

John Calder has everything most men would kill for—golden-Adonis looks, endless money, a steely reputation as a savvy businessman and beautiful women throwing themselves at his feet. Then he meets Shelli Rodgers, a quirky, klutzy Ph.D. student who takes John on an emotional and sensual journey, giving him the one thing he’s never attained—happiness.

Review:

This anthology has something for everyone. Space aliens, shape-shifting dragons, BDSM, time traveling Scottish warriors, witchy wantons, and good old-fashioned hunky rich guys. There's enough scorching sex to curl your toes and flutter your pulse for a week. Grab a tall glass of ice water before reading...that way you won't have to put the book down when your panties catch on fire!

Captain of Nara’s Heart By Laurann Dohner

Ah, the details, the glorious details. What would a trip to an alien planet with hunky aliens be like if we couldn’t see them? Laurann Dohner has created a world vibrant with color and imagination and shares that world with her readers through vivid and explicit descriptions. Sexy humanoid tearing clothes off our heroine (who has been drugged with an aphrodisiac)? Yep, she’s got that, too. And sex scenes so hot my ears burned! Ms. Dohner has packed a whole lot of punch into an anthology short story and I can’t wait for the next edition!

Dragon Heat By Mel Teshco

Benson and Grace have chemistry in spades, and the electricity between them lights up the pages. Romance, excitement, flying on a dragon’s back, this book has it all. The suspense and intrigue enhanced the romance without taking away from the seductive sex scenes. While the book was in third person, it was all from Grace’s point of view. I would have enjoyed getting in Benson’s head a little, too.

Dangerous Addiction By Desiree Holt

Ms. Holt has written a juicy short story about a Dom and a submissive masochist who have an instant connection. Can they overcome fears and past abuse in order to gain their own happily ever after? Steamy sex, willing surrender and a dominant male make this a titillating read.

Highland Tryst By Eliza Knight

Fun! Ms. Knight has written a story of a time traveling warrior whose life had seemed to be over. Given a second chance at life and love, Fin is determined to make the most of it.

The fact that magic is at work makes this short story almost believable and the chemistry between Fin and Kari make it thoroughly enjoyable. Hot sex, interesting conclusion, great read.

Tattoo Witch By Kathy Kulig

Wicked. Wanton. Wonderful! Good conquers evil, and the couple gets to keep the awesome additions to their sex life! Ms. Kulig has quite the imagination and thankfully, she shares the stimulating details with us! This short story is full of twists and surprises and kept me reading to the end.

The Addiction By Jaid Black

Talk about an emotional roller coaster! I laughed, I almost cried, I got hot and horny, and dang if I didn’t fall in love with John Calder! The women of the world love a tortured hero, and Shelli is no different. The chemistry between these two characters was sizzling and the plot was very believable. A fairytale story between the poor, struggling PhD and the rich, lonely businessman. Of course, this isn’t your mom’s Cinderella story... There’s way too much hot, electrifying sex for that!

Review – Very Much Alive By Dana Marie Bell

2011-12-16T04:47:00.000-06:00

Title: Very Much Alive

Author: Dana Marie Bell

Publisher: Samhain

Buy Link: Buy Very Much Alive Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Her destiny rests in their hands…

True Destiny, Book 1

Kiran Tate and Logan Saeter have been on the run from Oliver Grimm for so long they’ve forgotten what it’s like to be free. Ending Grimm’s power games won’t be easy, but this time they have an ace in the hole. PI Jordan Grey, Guardian Investigation’s resident hot shot—and Grimm’s step-granddaughter.

Jordan Grey has her doubts when Logan and Kir show up in her office with a tall tale of how her step-grandfather has framed them for murder. And to top it all off, they’re claiming that they’re really the ancient Norse gods Loki and Baldur, and that Grimm is Odin!

When the two lovers see the sexy detective for the first time, stopping Grimm suddenly takes a back seat to seducing her into their arms. But Grimm never rests, and when his anger spills over onto Jordan, it sets them all on a collision course with a destiny that will rock their world…

Warning: This book contains explicit sex, graphic language, some violence, and hot male/male/female action. In fact, it could be considered a religious experience.

Review:

Very Much Alive is a sensual, seductive book about two Norse gods who have been betrayed and beleaguered for centuries. Finally, it is time for them to bring justice to their betrayers. Jordan has no idea that Norse gods exist, much less that they are still alive and that she is one of them, at least partially. Now she has to help her two new lovers save themselves from the very people who should have loved them most.

Ms. Bell has written a fantastical story about magic and myth, woven in characters with electrifying chemistry and passion, and added intrigue and suspense for good measure. With sizzling sex and thrilling action, this is a stimulating read.

Review – Bunny Club By Stephanie Beck

2011-12-16T04:45:00.000-06:00

Title: Bunny Club

Author: Stephanie Beck

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy Link: Buy Bunny Club Here!

Reviewed By: Donna

Rating: You Want To Read

Blurb:

When rumors about a sex club lead them to the real thing, Jarrod and his cousin Alex think they’ve found nirvana. Filled with bubbly blondes and luscious brunettes, the Bunny Club is any man’s wet dream. Surrounded by their sexual fantasies, they settle in for an unbelievable night filled with women, sex and pleasure unlike anything they’ve ever dreamed.

When the sex turns weird and men start dying at the hands of the gorgeous women, Jarrod’s and Alex’s plans to get laid are put on the back burner in favor of escaping the Bunny Club with their lives—if they don’t die with smiles on their faces first.

Review:

Hmmm. Very interesting story without the happily ever after. Jarrod and Alex thought they had hit the mother load when, in fact, they had hit rock bottom. Going into what they thought was a sex club, Jarrod and Alex soon find themselves surrounded by wererabbits who simply want to get it on, and vampires who simply want to suck them dry -- and not in a good way.

This quickie was full of imagination, but not exactly what I expected. The writing was good and the story was an easy, quick read.

Review – Top Guns By E. Jamie

2011-12-15T16:44:00.001-06:00

Title: Top Guns

Author: E Jamie

Publisher: Sugar and Spice Press

Buy Link: Buy Top Guns Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

It all started with a bet. Now Allie has to fulfill her partner Jimmy's every desire. Being Allie's partner on the force at the NYPD, Jimmy's greatest desire is for Allie to be his partner in life as well, and this by the book cop is not above getting down and dirty to convince her.

Review:

Sex, sex and uh, more sex! Top Guns is a super short, super hot quickie. On the police force, Detectives Allie Harris and Jimmy McCullough have been partners for years. After losing a bet, Allie decides that being partners in life would be no more dangerous than being partners on the job.

E Jamie has pumped a whole lot of steam into 17 pages, and while it is way too short to have very much plot or character development, it was great while it lasted. If I could change only one thing... Big, tough guys do not "giggle". If I could change two things, I'd want more of it!

Review – The Peacemaker By Jianne Carlo

2011-12-15T16:42:00.001-06:00

Title: The Peacemaker (Viking Warriors Book 3)

Author: Jianne Carlo

Publisher: Etopia Press

Buy Link: Buy The Peacemaker Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Can the Peacemaker tame a warrior bride?

When Njal the Peacemaker meets his bride-to-be, she’s dressed in breeches, flaunting a crossbow, and covered in boar’s blood. What he needs is a woman skilled with words, a woman with exquisite manners, a cunning woman capable of maneuvering the political intrigue of a king’s court. Not this rough country lass whose skill with a crossbow rivals his.

Bettina has no desire to wed a peacemaker. She needs a Viking warrior who’ll strike fear into the hearts of her enemies, a man of strength who can thwart her step-uncle’s theft of her castle’s treasures. But Nyal the Peacemaker wields words, not weapons—until their wedding night proves he’s also a man of passion. Neither can resist the heat of their coupling, but can a man who values peace be enough for a warrior bride?

Review:

Njal, the Viking warrior, is a peacemaker among his people. Bettina is to be his bride, and is quite the opposite of a peacemaker. The Peacemaker is the third short novel in the Viking Warriors series by Jianne Carlo, and is an entertaining read.

There are some steamy sex scenes in this book, some excellent moments between the characters, and the plot has potential. However, I feel that there are a few too many vague references to various happenings that left me feeling as if I was missing something significant. Some examples are when one of Njal’s brothers had to stay with Luca who had broken his leg, but we have absolutely no idea why Luca broke his leg, or how this relates to the brother watching Bettina. How did the step-uncle finally meet his end…or did he? Another example is the moment when Njal first meets his bride-to-be. I wasn’t sure if he saw her killing a boar, or if he was there afterwards or something else entirely.

Ms. Carlo has the potential to write some excellent stories. I would only hope that they are given a little more depth in the future to flesh out some of the “thin” sections. Overall, an enjoyable read.

Review – White Knight By Mari Carr

2011-12-12T03:31:00.000-06:00

Title: White Knight

Author: Mari Carr

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy link: Buy White Knight Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

A sequel to Black Jack.

Shea Landon knows this is a bad idea. But when you’re broke, tired and homeless, you do crazy things. She decides to crash in her new place of employment, a fetish club, borrowing the big, comfy bed that’s used as a stage prop. She doesn’t realize she’s not alone…

Travis Knight knows this is a bad idea. As he views his new waitress sneaking around the club after hours, he realizes he should fire her, call the police. Instead, captivated, he watches her on the same security monitors that separate him from the world. Until watching isn’t nearly enough…

Two people—one desperate, one broken, both hopelessly alone. Two people assuaging their needs through spanking and sex games, bondage and taboo fantasy. It’s enough. It has to be—when the biggest secret between them might be a tragedy neither can overcome.

Review:

White Knight contains a story within a story, and both of them were excellent. Shea feels very bad about taking advantage of her employer, but her situation is quite dire. Travis is ready to call the police but he realizes that his employee is not stealing from him, just simply trying to survive. After watching Shea on the large bed night after night, never taking anything that isn't hers and making sure that her job is well done, Travis is hooked. He just has a tiny little problem. He can't be touched. Even though he wants Shea's touch desperately.

Ms. Carr has written characters with oomph and pizzazz that are sexy and alluring. The plot is fresh and unique, the grammar is (almost) flawless, the sex scenes are exhilarating... Overall an excellent read that was hard to put down!

Review – Yellow Ribbons By Caitlyn Willows

2011-12-12T03:30:00.000-06:00

Title: Yellow Ribbons

Author: Caitlyn Willows

Publisher: Loose ID

Buy link: Buy Yellow Ribbons Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Congratulations to Caitlyn on her 100th Story!!

He saw her across the room, a beautiful offering strung between the pillars awaiting a master to bring her the rush of bliss. That’s when Greg Landess knew no one was going to have his captain but him.

Lani Hollister didn’t have a clue what release was like until that night Greg claimed her. Calling it magic didn't come close. He’d captured more than her body that night, he cradled her heart in his big, wonderful hands.

Their relationship was a secret they kept from the world. Their love a secret they kept from each other. Fraternization between officer and enlisted, between supervisor and subordinate, are strictly forbidden. Neither expected a call to a murder scene would jeopardize their affair and make them the enforcers of the very rules they’d broken.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: some BDSM elements, including bondage and spanking.

Review:

The passion and raw emotion of the characters in Yellow Ribbons were riveting, the plot was mysterious and full of suspense, the sex was stimulating, and the end result – an excellent read.

Ms. Willows set a fast pace from the first page and kept it up the whole time. There were no boring moments in this erotic suspense, and enough chemistry to fill up this and a few more books. Lani and Greg have love enough to conquer all that life, and the Marine Corps, can throw at them. I’d love to see Jordan get his perfect woman in a sequel!

Review – Lumina By Georgia Fox

2011-12-11T03:28:00.000-06:00

Title: Lumina

Author: Georgia Fox

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy link: Buy Lumina Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Misadventures of a Wanton Hussy, 1

Isabelle is about to have her virginity auctioned off to the highest bidder. Only stern, sensible Salvatore, her cruel aunt’s solicitor, can rescue her. While he’s been her tutor, she’s fallen deeply in love. But Salvatore has dark secrets that keep him from temptation. Their futures seem destined to be apart.

Her pride wounded by his rejection, and trust broken by a shocking discovery, Isabelle tries to forget him. Determined never to endanger her heart again, she finds another man to satisfy her sexual needs.

Until a surprise inheritance brings her back to Salvatore.

Now named “Lumina”, she wants two things from him – the cock he once denied her. And vengeance.

Salvatore, now a free man, has other ideas. He bitterly regretted losing her before and he’ll do anything to keep her this time, even sharing her with other lovers.

Until she’s ready to commit herself solely to him.

Be Warned: menage sex, m/f/m, f/f/m, f/f, anal sex, public exhibition.

Review:

Okay, there are hot books, and then there are hot books. Lumina is the story of a young girl who is taken in by her aunt to learn. What she is to learn is not what she originally imagined, and she doesn't want to be auctioned off to the highest bidder as his mistress.

Ms. Fox has written a very arousing story about a young woman who defies her fate to find the only happiness she believes possible. The interactions between Isabelle and Salvatore is titillating, the sex is...well...very stimulating. Have a cool glass of water handy when you read this book! Minimal grammatical errors were noted, but I was so busy fanning myself while reading that I didn't care. ;-)

Review – Hide From Evil By Jami Alden

2011-12-11T03:25:00.000-06:00

Title: Hide From Evil

Author: Jami Alden

Publisher: Hatchette Book Group

Buy link: Buy Hide From Evil Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewer: Wendy Mitchell

Blurb:

Like a chess master, he carefully weighs his next move . . . advancing slowly until he is sure he can capture his helpless pawn. For in his mind, there’s no way to . . .

Sean Flynn should feel lucky he’s alive. But his betrayal by a close friend—and two years on death row—have left him feeling only numb. When his conviction was overturned, Sean retreated to a quiet woodland cabin, far away from prying eyes. There, he believed the past couldn’t come back to haunt him . . . until she showed up.

Overcome with guilt, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Krista Slater can’t forgive herself for convicting an innocent man. But when another brutal murder reveals chilling, new facts about his case, she must turn to Sean for help. She’s ready to face his anger, but the desire in his eyes ignites a need she’s never felt before. Shadowed by danger, Sean and Krista uncover a twisted maze of deception and betrayal—all under the dangerous gaze of a cunning mastermind who will do whatever it takes to keep his evil secrets safe.

Review:

Krista Slater is the prosecuting attorney who got Sean Flynn convicted and sentenced to death row for a murder and rape he didn’t commit. She was also instrumental in getting him released, but after three years in lock up, that didn’t go too far in making Sean feel a lot better. Krista is about to put Sean’s life in danger again. Despite warnings from her boss and mentor, Krista is still investigating the unanswered questions left by the Seattle Slasher, like why many of the people who testified against Sean or were connected to the case are disappearing or turning up dead. Not aware of the powerful players that hid the monster, Krista has unwittingly unleashed their ire and now Sean and Krista are both in deadly peril. With no one but each other to trust, Sean will have to put aside his animosity to protect them both.

It had been a while since I finished Beg For Mercy, and I had actually forgotten the powerful impact Jami Alden’s writing can bring. That was brought home to me before the end of the first chapter in Hide From Evil. Brilliant, simply and utterly brilliant! I can’t believe Ms. Alden improved when there was almost no room for it, but she did. Maybe it was because I knew the characters and the story going into this book, but whatever it was…. It worked. This book moves Ms. Alden into the big leagues and most definitely onto my “Must Read” author’s list. I love the fact that Sean didn’t emerge from prison hunky-dory. No one does that, and it would have been unrealistic. Sean had tremendous trauma to overcome and deal with. Krista is forced to reevaluate her entire belief system, which is a jarring trauma in and of itself, so the pairing up of these two strong but wounded characters took work and a lot of talent. And maybe it’s because of the time factor, but I don’t remember the first book being this smoking hot. Hide From Evil is a flat out scorcher. Even with the threat of death hanging over their heads, (or maybe because of it) the chemistry between Krista and Sean is incendiary. The seedy side of Seattle’s power structure begins to further unravel and the villains become exposed forcing them into desperate and unwise maneuvers. The dramatic finish to this book leaves me absolutely rabid for Talia and Jack’s book. If it’s better than this one, it’ll have to be written in gold.

Review – Hell Hath No Fury By Anne Kane

2011-12-10T03:23:00.000-06:00

Title: Hell Hath no Fury

Author: Anne Kane

Publisher: Changeling Press

Buy Link: Buy Hell Hath No Fury Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

If there was one thing guaranteed to piss off Fury, it was a man who didn't know how to treat a woman. One that actually hurt them on purpose, well, they'd better hope she managed to rein in her inner Hellhound when she came calling.

Women had been disappearing for months now, the kind of women that no one really cared about. Later, they'd turn up dead, and they didn't get that way easy. Then the killer made a mistake. The woman he'd been torturing escaped before he finished her off, and she called in the Hellhounds.

Now, the suspect is hiding behind a web of tech and Fury needs the help of a Tech Wizard to help to run him to ground. Axe finally gets the chance to prove that a werewolf-Hellhound cross is just what she needs for more than just work.

Review:

The only element keeping this from being a Gotta Read is the fact that the author never dropped the other shoe. We are told Fury has a hard past, that she has trust issues due to events in said past, that these events have a profound effect on her present. But what these events are, her revelation, and acceptance of her past, have all been left out of the story. Giving characters a background helps make erotica more immersive, but they require an emotional pay off.

The sex is a lot of fun, with both parties being very playful and not taking their budding relationship too seriously. There is very light SM, but nothing that will scare anyone away.

Overall, this story is a lot of fun. If it had followed through with the backstory, it would have been perfect.

Review - The Healing Powers of Honey By Cal Orey

2011-12-10T03:21:00.000-06:00

Title: The Healing Powers of Honey

Author: Cal Orey

Publisher: Kensington

Buy Link: Buy The Healing Powers of Honey Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Discover Honey’s Amazing Bee-Healthy Powers

Did you know?...

Known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” honey was praised for its healing powers as far back as 5,000 years ago by Egyptians.

Eating honey can help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes—even help reduce body fat and unwanted weight!—and increase longevity.

Pure, raw, unprocessed honey is a healthier sweetener than table sugar and high-fructose corn syrup. It’s chock-full of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins—and only has 21 calories per teaspoon.

Super “bee foods” (including nutrient-rich bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly) are used and touted for their healing powers by beekeepers and medical experts in the present day.

Honey can relieve a variety of ailments, including allergies, coughs, fatigue, pain, and stress, as well as boost libido.

The honey bee pollinates about one-third of the food we consume (including nutritious fruits and nuts).

Drawing on the latest honey buzz and interviews with medical doctors, beekeepers, and researchers, this charming and enlightening book (sweetened with stories about honey bees and humans) reveals 30 healing honey varieties paired with cinnamon and teas, tells you how to incorporate honey into Mediterranean-style, heart-healthy recipes such as Honey Custard French Toast, Honey-Glazed Game Hen, and Filo Pear and Honey Tarts, and provides more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes. You’ll also enjoy Cleopatra’s milk-and-honey beauty treatments and eco-friendly beeswax household uses—all made with the amazing honey bee’s gifts!

Review:

Do you like honey? I know I do, actually you could say I love honey. There are so many things that can be done with honey and this book gives us a glimpse at some of them. From adding sweetness to food and drink to helping to heal and relieve some ailments honey does it all. I really enjoyed the recipes in this book. There were so many delicious sounding ones to try.

I found some new ways to use my honey as well even some different ways to heal some of my common aches and pains. While I would check with your doctor before trying any of these cures, it is still an interesting look at what honey can do. This book also contains a nice addition in a listing of some of the major honey companies around the world. It is not every company but it is a start. A quick and interesting read on some of the uses and facts on honey makes this a great addition to my bookshelves.

Review – The Bear and The Bride By Jianne Carlo

2011-12-10T03:20:00.000-06:00

Title: The Bear and The Bride

Author: Jianne Carlo

Publisher: Etopia Press

Buy Link: Buy The Bear And The Bride

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Jarl Torsten glimpses Ainslin of Durham, a recent widow with two sons, and immediately covets her for his wife. He outmaneuvers his rival, Ainslin’s neighbor Earl Sigrid, and receives the king’s blessing to marry her.

Ainslin fears Torsten reaction when he discovers she’s a virgin. How to explain her maidenhead and twin sons?

Her worst nightmares are realized when Earl Sigrid arrives in Norway for King Cnut’s coronation. What does he suspect? Will Torsten cast Ainslin and the boys aside when he discovers the truth?

Review:

Ainslin has been married twice now. Both times by proxy. She has twin sons, and she is going to her second husband’s bed…a virgin. To say that Torsten is surprised when his new bride turns out to be a virgin is a huge understatement, but he is pleased as a cat in cream.

Ms. Carlo has written a very short story about a Viking warrior claiming the bride he desires above all others. There is not a significant amount of depth to the plot, perhaps because of the brevity of the story, and there are a few points that I felt were left hanging (such as Sigrid just giving up his desire to see Ainslin’s boys or his quest to have Ainslin for his own, and was Martha part of Sigrid's plan). However, it was an enjoyable “quickie” that was both sweet and entertaining.

Review – The Dragon Slayer By Jianne Carlo

2011-12-09T03:15:00.000-06:00

Title: The Dragon Slayer

Author: Jianne Carlo

Publisher: Etopia Press

Buy Link: Buy The Dragon Slayer Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Ruard, the Viking warrior known as The Dragon Slayer, has no great hopes for the wife he’s to take as the lord of Dunnsmuir Castle, so long as she’s a biddable wife, with all her teeth, who doesn’t drool—a plain, humble woman. He has no use for the flame-haired nymph with breasts as ripe as melons and whose supple hips beckon a man’s hands. Nor for a maiden with a stubborn chin and flashing eyes that speak of naught but trouble.

Catriona hopes for a husband ‘twill be easy to poison. Lord Ulfric holds her sister captive and demands Catriona do his bidding: poison his Viking rival, the man they call the Dragon Slayer. Catriona hopes for a cruel warrior, a man easy to hate, not this Thor god come to life with golden hair, sky blue eyes, and a laughing smile. Her sister’s life depends on it, but how can she slay this Ruard, her new husband, who makes her heart pound with joy?

Review:

Ruard is The Dragon Slayer - a Viking warrior claiming his bride and, thereby, her castle. Catriona is a woman torn between saving her baby sister and sparing the man she was sent to poison.

When Ruard arrives at his castle awarded to him by the king, he finds filth where wealth should be, rot where riches once were. Nothing is as it should have been, but he is hopeful that his wife-to-be will be able to set things aright with the household once she arrives. He didn’t even wish for a pretty wife, so when the siren walks into the hall, he is stunned. As she takes charge and makes the castle not only habitable but homey, he is thrilled.

After Catriona sees how much her new husband values her as a wife and a person, she cannot go through with the evil plan to murder him. She decides to offer him her trust in getting her sister to safety and she unveils the treacherous plan his enemy has put in motion.

Ms. Carlo has written a sweet short story about two people who fall easily in love. The plot is a little thin (i.e. wouldn’t Ulfric have been prepared for an ambush in the event Catriona didn’t follow orders?) and their wasn’t much conflict, but the characters were enjoyable and it was an easy read.

Review – One Chance By Clarissa Yip

2011-12-09T03:13:00.000-06:00

Title: One Chance

Author: Clarissa Yip

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Buy Link: Buy One Chance Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Shy tomboy, Jenna Faulkner has been in love her whole life—with her best friend. Except he’s marrying the wrong woman, and he doesn’t know it yet. But she’s determined to save him…

Instead of the normal bachelor party, Jenna decides to throw a different type of gathering…with just her. Alone. Will Cade finally come to his senses and see Jenna for more than a friend or has she ruined their friendship, once and for all?

Review:

Jenna has been in love with Cade her whole life. Cade is in love with Jenna, but he's marrying another woman... Ms. Yip has written a short story about the foibles of lack of communication between friends. This is an old theme, but it is a well written quickie with steamy sex and a happily ever after. It is a little too short for much character development, but the grammar is good and it is entertaining.

Review – Tempting A Cowboy By Clarissa Yip

2011-12-09T03:10:00.000-06:00

Title: Tempting a Cowboy

Author: Clarissa Yip

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Tempting A Cowboy Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

A 1 Night Stand Story

Clueless when it comes to women, Shane McCormick only talks geek.

On a business trip to Vegas, he attends a masquerade dressed as a cowboy under the persuasion of his sister, only to find out he’s been set up by Madame Eve.

On a dare with her friends, Mia Hunt asks for the impossible: A 1NightStand with a hot cowboy, except her date is the one person she shouldn’t be seen with.

When their attraction fuels the night, trouble follows as desire collides. Will their time together end in calamity or a promise for more fun?

Review:

Fly to Vegas for a one night stand…on a dare… Sure! Sign Mia up. That’s sarcasm, in case you didn’t notice. Mia is not happy with her friends Brenda and Sarah, but she’s determined to prove that she is not a wallflower, so she goes along with their insane plans to visit the city of sin for a one night stand.

Shane has been lassoed by his sister into attending a dating service's masquerade ball…as a cowboy...in Vegas. This is so not his thing, and if geeks were meant to wear chaps, they would have been available with pocket protectors. He’s determined to meet his “date” and let her down easy. That is, until he gets a taste of her.

Ms. Yip has written a fun short story about three friends determined to experience a one night stand, Vegas-style. The characters are quirky, the plot is fun and the sex is spicy. Quite an enjoyable read for a quickie.

Review – Full House By Jess Dee

2011-12-08T15:10:00.001-06:00

Title: Full House

Author: Jess Dee

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Full House Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

A full house beats a pair any day.

It’s been a long, lonely business trip for diamond dealer Max Ashberg. He’s missed his lover like crazy, and he’s come to the realization that he’s ready to take the next step: nominate himself to be Trev’s new housemate. Except when he gets to Trev’s place, there’s someone living in “his” room. A woman—with the face of an angel.

Six weeks shouldn’t make a huge difference in a man’s life, but in that time lawyer Trev Greenfield has realized two things: He wants much more than a standing Friday night “date” with Max. And he’s falling heart-over-head for his new housemate, potter Grace Miles.

Grace never meant to fall for Trev, but when a power failure turns their chemistry into live electricity, there’s no denying the spark. There’s also no denying the shock when Grace discovers a naked man in her new home.

With Grace poised to run and Max teetering between confusion and growing lust for the delicious possibilities, Trev has his hands full trying to hold the two loves of his life together…before it all slips through his fingers. Leaving them all with shattered hearts.

Warning: There’s a lot of sex in this book. I mean a lot! Hot sex. Sweaty sex. Gay sex. Straight sex. Ménage sex (M/M/F and M/F/M). Oh, and romantic sex. Lots of romantic sex. Hot romantic sex. Sweaty romantic sex. Gay romantic sex… You getting the picture?

Review:

Full House is a story about two men who are finally ready to declare their love for each other after two years of being friends with benefits, but Trev doesn't want to leave it at that. Max and Grace both apeal to Trev in the most basic way, and while Trev has been with both men and women in the past, he has never been in love with anyone from either sex before. Now, he is in love with one of each.

Max is in love with Trev, and after being gone on business for six weeks, he is ready to move to the next phase in their relationship. As he is showing Trev just how much he means to him, a startled cry breaks the mood.

Grace can't believe what she has seen. Trev, the man she has been falling in love with for the past month, is making love to another man. And they have each declared their love. In a bit of a panic, Grace tries to get away with a little dignity still intact, but to her surprise, both Trev and Max want her to join their kinky love triangle.

Ms. Dee has written a ménage story with much more m/m action than the previous books in this series. It is a short story with a continuing theme of poker buddies falling in love with each other. The characters, especially Trev and Max, have chemistry in spades, but since it was so short, there wasn't much room for any kind of character growth or development beyond the basics. The book contains m/m, m/m/f, and a little bit of m/f action. There were very few grammatical errors, and the book was an easy read.

Review – Joy Ride By Desiree Holt

2011-12-08T15:08:00.001-06:00

Title: Joy Ride

Author: Desiree Holt

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Joy Ride Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Emma, the good girl poster child, is running from a life she suddenly sees as gray and suffocating—a life where she’s successfully buried all her hopes and secret dreams. Until the night she wanders into Aftershock and is immediately drawn to the hot bass player. The electricity of his performance, the powerful music he coaxes from his guitar, the heavy vibration of each note reaches out to something deep inside her and wakes an Emma she didn’t even know existed.

Marc doesn’t much care for the groupies who hang around the band. He needs a woman he can create a future with that’s a counterpoint to the craziness of the rock music business. When he sees Emma for the first time, something inside him cracks wide open. Just one sizzling glance between them, and he’s sure he’s found the woman to complete his life.

But as the relationship grows, there’s a huge stumbling block: Emma won’t tell him her name. The sex is fabulous but he wants more….

Although Emma is finally finding her true self, her fear of everything falling apart builds a barrier she can’t seem to cross. Marc is taking her on the joy ride of her life, but will her own insecurities destroy everything?

Review:

Joy Ride is a novel about starting over, shaking things up and looking for the magic in life.

Too much self deprecation from Emma, way too little understanding from her parents and an overwhelming control issue from her ex-boyfriend leave Emma emotionally shaken and conflicted. When she has an epiphany and realizes that there are more experiences out there and excitement just waiting to be had, she snaps. She wants to change, to finally begin to savor life, if only her ingrained insecurities will allow her to let go of her inhibitions.

The beautiful blond is as out of place in the rock club as caviar at a fast food joint, but Marc is enthralled by her aura of innocence. She is not a groupie, that much is obvious, and she has such magnetism that he literally has to follow her out into the parking lot after his set is finished. And kiss her. And take her home. She’s perfect for him, exactly what he’s been looking for in a woman, but there’s just one problem. He doesn’t know her name, and she won’t tell him.

Ms. Holt’s characters come to life with emotion and charisma. The plot has a unique twist and makes the story very compelling. There were a few grammatical errors scattered throughout the book, but for the most part, it was well written and easy to read. If I could change anything, I would probably cut down on the amount of whiny moments that Emma suffered and let her get on with enjoying her new adventurous life sooner. I loved Marc’s character and wouldn’t have changed a thing. The excitement of a new relationship, fiery passion and explosive sex make this book very entertaining.

Review – To Command and Collar By Cherise Sinclair

2011-12-08T15:05:00.001-06:00

Title: Master of the Shadowlands 6: To Command and Collar

Author: Cherise Sinclair

Publisher: Loose Id

Buy Link: Buy To Command And Collar Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed By: Donna
Blurb:

Determined to find the human traffickers preying on Shadowlands’ submissives, Master Raoul gets himself invited to a small slave auction. Once informed, the FBI orders him to reject the limited choices so the slavers will invite him to the big auction. To Raoul’s shock, one of the slaves is the kidnapped friend of a Shadowlands sub. She has a scarred body...and an unbroken spirit. He can’t leave her behind. Ruining the FBI’s carefully laid plans, he buys her.

Kimberly’s freedom has come at a devastating price: the other women are still slaves. An FBI raid is their only hope for rescue. Desperate to help the Feds locate the big auction, she agrees to pose as Master Raoul’s slave. Wearing a collar again is terrifying, but under the powerful dominant’s care, Kim starts to heal and then to blossom. This is what she’s been drawn to—and fled from—her entire life.

She escaped the slavers who captured her body—can she escape the master who’s captured her heart?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: anal play, BDSM theme and elements (including/not limited to: bondage, fire play, flogging), violence.

Review:

Oh, be still my thundering heart! Someone get me a towel to wipe up all the drool. Cherise Sinclair has done it again, bringing back the bad boys of the Shadowlands to help bring down a human trafficking ring -- and to protect and dominate their submissives. In this sixth book in the Shadowlands series, Master Raoul is working undercover for the FBI to identify the location of a slave auction. In book five, Kimberly was taken as a slave and almost all hope of finding her had been lost. So, when Raoul realizes that Kimberly is the arousing woman who dances for him at a slave sale, he cannot leave her behind, even if it means jeopardizing the entire operation.

Kimberly has endured seven weeks of hell, and she vows to never be a slave again. Now she has been rescued, but her friends are still captives. If she hopes to help free the remaining women, she will have to pose as Master Raoul’s slave and submit to him for real. When she realizes that she is falling in love with her Dom, she fears that she will never be able to make him happy as anything less than his full time submissive.

Ms. Sinclair’s characters come alive on the page with passion and energy in a story that is absolutely riveting. Her sex scenes are titillating and sensual, the plot is well thought out with twists and turns that keep you hanging on every word. The chemistry between Raoul and Kimberly is palpable, and the characters from the previous books come back to visit and expand on their own stories. This is a touching story of love courage with lots of BDSM excitement. If you love BDSM, you’ll flip for this book. If you don’t like BDSM, read this book and it will change your mind!

Review – True Grime By Natasha Deen

2011-12-07T02:14:00.000-06:00

Title: True Grime

Author: Natasha Deen

Publisher: Blueberry Hill Publishing

Buy link: Buy True Grime Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewer: Wendy Mitchell

Blurb:

Grime cop and teen fairy Pepper Powder lives for one thing: protecting the human species from magical zealots who seek to eradicate them with Violent Illness of Unusual Resistance and Strength (humans call them “viruses,” but their mistake is understandable. The very young often get their words wrong.). When a terrorist leader releases a necrophage bomb, it not only decimates Grime headquarters, it turns Pepper into the magical world’s first fairy amputee—but she’s not going to let a little thing like a missing leg stop her. To catch her criminal, and prevent him from unleashing a V.I.U.R.S in one of the human world’s biggest shopping centers, West Edmonton Mall, she goes undercover as a human. But once Pepper's theories of humanity collide with the reality of bullies, cliques, and environmental destruction, will she still believe humanity's worth saving?

Review:

Pepper Powder is a fairy cop in training. She and her partner Harley Hands are assigned to the True Grime unit. A division that keeps the bad guys from infecting humanity with Violent Illness of Unusual Resistance and Strength (or viruses). One of the worst of the villains has escaped from the Menacers Asylum, Twilight Twinkle aka Claude Von Beulow, is on the loose and causing mass mayhem. In order to stop him from unleashing his bomb in the West Edmonton Mall, Powder and Harley go undercover as a sibling duo in a human high school. Hilarity and Grime investigation ensue.

These is one of a VERY small number of YA books that I deem worthy to read. It’s the holidays after all and I like cute and mirthful as much as the next pervy Cougar. This book is a flat-out hoot. The tongue and cheek names and characters, the over the top plot lines. How could a living person not smile and feel more festive after reading this book. It even had a heroine that I approved of. She was a toughie in training *sniff*, she reminded me of myself a little, back when I was just a fledgling, all attitude and mouth. Only after her interactions with the infuriating and confusing humans does she start to experience the more feminine side of her personality. She is crushing on Harley (hard) and this makes for some extremely humorous situations for the “brother and sister” duo. I have to imagine that being inside Natasha Deen’s mind is a bit like touring Disneyworld on acid, very colorful and beyond mortal envisioning. If you have young ones (or just people who enjoy whimsy) on your gift list or just need a reason to smile, you couldn’t ask for a more perfect find

Review – To Have And To Hold By Yvette Hines

2011-12-07T02:12:00.000-06:00

Title: To Have and To Hold

Author: Yvette Hines

Publisher: Phaze

Buy Link: Buy To Have And To Hold Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Kelli Delaney spent the last year planning for the perfect wedding. What she didn't plan for was getting to the altar and not having a groom there waiting for her.

Dumped and pissed, Kelli decides she's still going to have her honeymoon and eat her cake too.

When she meets up with her college crush, Will Robertson, she finds herself submitting to a passionate weekend she couldn't have arranged for in her wildest dreams.

Kelli Delaney spent the last year planning for the perfect wedding. What she didn't plan for was getting to the altar and not having a groom there waiting for her. Dumped and pissed, Kelli decides she's still going to have her honeymoon and eat her cake too.

When she happens upon an old college friend, Will Robertson, in her mess of a state, old memories and emotions flood her mind. On impulse she decides to invite him to the cabin.

Will Robertson can't believe his luck. After years of secretly desiring Kelli, she walks back into his life. Not only to resume their friendship, but more importantly to have him fulfill her sexual needs. However, Kelli doesn't know what she is asking him.

Not only must he put his feelings for her on the line, but also has to reveal a darker, wicked side of his nature that sweet, innocent Kelli could never imagine. When she agrees to allow him to pleasure her over a long weekend, the way he has always fantasized about, he realizes it may shatter him to let her go when their time is up.

Review:

To Have and To Hold is a short story about finding new beginnings and taking second chances. Kelli is ready to walk down the isle when she is told that her groom isn't waiting for her. After leaving the church behind, she realizes that she is more relieved than upset and decides to go to her honeymoon cabin and enjoy herself for the first time in years. Along the way, Kelli runs into an old friend and invites him to join her.

Will has loved Kelli from afar since he first got to know her in college, but she was engaged to someone else and he never took the chance to steal her away. Finding her in a small restaurant after her wedding falls apart is sheer coincidence…or perhaps fate?

Ms. Hines has written a moving story about two people destined to be together. Her characters have plenty of chemistry, the plot is interesting with some mild BDSM elements and it was an easy read. There were a few grammatical errors, but overall it was quite entertaining.

Review – The Craftsman By Georgia Fox

2011-12-06T02:12:00.000-06:00

Title: The Craftsman

Author: Georgia Fox

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Craftsman Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

The Conquerors, 3

Raedwulf, son of a Saxon noble, is finally released from William the Conqueror’s prison. Unfortunately, this amnesty is conditional on an arranged marriage, but he just wants to be left in peace with his carpentry. The last thing he needs is a woman forced to bed him out of duty.

Emma is newly widowed. Believed barren, she never expected to marry again and planned to enter a convent. Instead, a fateful mistake sends her to this quiet, brooding man, who spends long hours alone with his woodwork. She’s stunned to learn that “Wulf” is a virgin, especially when she sees the magnificent craftsman’s tool in his breeches.

Before they are parted by the truth, can she teach Wulf to use that splendid, God-given implement with the same skill as he wields those in his workshop?

Or will Emma learn some lessons of her own at the hands of The Craftsman?

Be Warned: m/f/m, m/m/f, multiple partners, anal sex, sex toys, public exhibition, m/m sex.

Review: Ms. Fox has written an entertaining tale of conquerors and the women who love them. This is the third book in her Conquerors series, and while I enjoyed the plot and the new characters, Raedwulf's character was very different from the expectation I had after reading The Virgin Proxy. A couple of the plot twists seemed a little far fetched to me, and I felt that there should have been an epilogue to clear up some of the things that were left hanging, such as whether or not Emma was truly barren, what happened to Amias, etc. Overall, there were only a few grammatical errors and the story was enjoyable. A good read.

Review – The Virgin Proxy By Georgia Fox

2011-12-06T02:07:00.000-06:00

Title: The Virgin Proxy

Author: Georgia Fox

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy link: Buy The Virgin Proxy Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

The Conquerors, 2

When the Normans conquered England, Deorwynn lost almost everything, including her family. Only one beloved brother survives. To rescue him, she must sacrifice her virginity in the enemy’s bed. She should be well prepared. After spending fifteen years in a grim convent, punished for every sinful thought, Deorwynn can withstand any torment at the hands of a merciless, Norman warrior.
But nothing, she soon learns, could prepare her for falling in love.
Guy Devaux is delighted with the amorous virgin waiting for him on his wedding night. There’s only one problem. The saucy-mouthed wench is not his bride. Oh yes, he knows the veiled woman in his bed is an imposter, but he’ll go along with the game. For now. The punishment for her deception will come later.
Just as soon as he conquers this foolish desire, this yearning to hear her say she loves him.

Be Warned: multiple partners, anal play.

Review:

The second book in the Conquerors series, The Virgin Proxy, was even better than the first book. Set in the wake of the Duke of Normandy taking over the Saxon kingdom, Deorwynn finds herself drawn to her enemy. She has agreed to sacrifice her virginity so that her brother can be freed from the new King's dungeon, but what she finds in her enemy's bed is much, much more than she bargained for.

Ms. Fox has expanded on The Ever Knight story with strong characters who are tenacious and bold. The sex is steamy, the hero is a boy in a man's body, and the heroine is just feisty enough to tame him and help him become a better man. A very enjoyable read.

Review – Tempting Rever By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-06T01:05:00.000-06:00

Title: Tempting Rever (Zorn Warriors, Book Three)

Author: Laurann Dohner

Published by: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Tempting Rever Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book three in the Zorn Warriors series.

Brenda spent four years trapped in an unhappy marriage. She’s so desperate to start a new life somewhere safe that she’s agreed to go to another planet with a handsome alien stranger. When he’s killed, she finds herself in the home of a Zorn warrior willing to protect her until the fallen warrior’s brother arrives to claim her.

Brenda never believed in love at first sight until she gazed into the gorgeous blue eyes of Argis Rever. He’s tall, dark, sexy…the kind of guy she’s always dreamed of finding—and already bound to another human woman. She could have lived with letting the man of her dreams slip through her fingers, except he isn’t happy—the horrid woman doesn’t even want him, and will never love him.

Brenda has lost a lot in her life but she’s not willing to lose the one chance at finding happiness with a man she’s falling in love with. She’s more than ready to start tempting Rever into finding his own happiness…with her.

Review:

Book three in the Zorn series was wonderful! Exciting action depicting inventive alien life, emotionally stirring conflict and passionate characters make this book even better than the first two in the series. Ms. Dohner has created a wonderful world where men are warriors and women are always satisfied. Luckily for Brenda and Rever, his brothers come through and save his butt in the end (figuratively speaking) and they lived happily ever after. Loved it!

Review – Paying Her Debt By Emma Shortt

2011-12-05T02:17:00.000-06:00

Title: Paying Her Debt

Author: Emma C Shortt

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Paying Her Debt Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna B.

Blurb:

Fired from the job she so desperately needs, Andy Jones is shocked to find a wallet stuffed full of cash. It belongs to none other than Alexander Ioannou, millionaire extraordinaire, and the man responsible for her firing.

Alexander comes looking for the woman he suspects of misappropriating not only his funds, but his grandmother's ring, and is shocked to find it’s the woman who has been haunting his dreams.

Rather than turn her in, Alexander begins to think of more interesting ways for Andy to pay back her debt…

Review:

Paying her debt is the only goal in Andy's life. Working 15 hour days is her only means for achieving that goal. Unfortunately, her body has finally reached the end of its rope and decides it really needs a nap...just before her boss walks in to see her sleeping on the job. Alex has never encountered an employee sleeping on the job, and he is stunned to find not just a sleeping employee, but a sleeping beauty! He has no choice but to fire her, but after she walks out, he can't help but question his decision. Ms. Shortt has written a wonderful story about the poor damsel in distress being rescued by the handsome (and very rich) prince charming. There were quite a few grammatical errors in the story, but I laughed, cried and cheered on the couple to their happy ever after. Despite the errors, Paying Her Debt was an enjoyable read.

Review – Male Android Companion By Mackenzie McKade

2011-12-05T01:01:00.000-06:00

Title: Male Android Companion

Author: Mackenzie McKade

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Male Android Companion Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Donna B.

Blurb:

Hollywood, California, 2095… Gia Easton has had it. After catching her ex-boyfriend/agent with her best friend, the beautiful actress is through with men, but not sex and especially not now. Her family is expecting to meet her latest squeeze and won’t take no for an answer. That’s why she’s standing before the new and improved line of Male Android Companions (M.A.C.). The Institute of Robotics promises the androids are as good as the real thing without the hassle or heartbreak.

Satisfaction guaranteed!

The starlet has just mistaken Marc Anthony Charleston, M.A.C.’s creator, as one of his humanoids. When she selects him to take home, he’s in no hurry to correct her misunderstanding. Besides, she’s getting more bang for her buck—and so is he.

Review:

An amazing, not-too-distant futuristic novel, Male Android Companion was funny, sexy and heartwarming, all in one. With sex scenes that scorched the page and moments that made me tear up, I was engrossed in the likable characters who seemed down to earth and just simply delightful. Ms. McKade has brought just enough sci-fi into play to make the setting very interesting, while keeping her feet solidly on earth. There were only a few very minor grammatical errors, but overall I give this book a You Gotta Read rating. I couldn't put it down!

Review – Lord Of The Abyss By Nalini Singh

2011-12-05T01:00:00.000-06:00

Title: Lord of the Abyss: Royal House of Shadows, Book 4

Author: Nalini Singh

Publisher: Harlequin

Buy link: Buy Lord Of The Abyss Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewer: Wendy Mitchell

Blurb:

Once upon a time…the Blood Sorcerer vanquished the kingdom of Elden. To save their children, the queen scattered them to safety and the king filled them with vengeance. Only a magical timepiece connects the four royal heirs…and time is running out.…

As the dark Lord who condemns souls to damnation in the Abyss, Micah is nothing but a feared monster wrapped in impenetrable black armor. He has no idea he is the last heir of Elden, its last hope. Only one woman knows—the daughter of his enemy.

Liliana is nothing like her father, the Blood Sorcerer who'd cursed Micah. She sees past Micah's armor to the prince inside. A prince whose sinful touch she craves. But first she has to brave his dark, dangerous lair and help him remember.

Because they only have till midnight to save Elden.

Review:

Even though three of the royal siblings have returned, darkness and despair still cloak the once beautiful kingdom of Elden. The Blood Sorcerer is still in power and time is running out for the kingdom and it’s inhabitants. There is however hope from a surprising source, the daughter of the Blood Sorcerer himself, Liliana. Though scarred and misshapen, she is still pure of heart and soul despite her father’s tortures. Determined to see her father dead and free the kingdom, she seeks help from the only man who can bring about the return of Elden to it’s former glory. Micah was only a child of five when his parents, the King and Queen of Elden were slaughtered by the Blood Sorcerer. He has no memory of his childhood and only knows his life as the Lord of the Black Castle, gateway to the Abyss.

What a marvelous conclusion to this dramatic and thrilling series! Micah’s story was the best by far (no slight intended to the other magnificent authors and their books). Even though I was sad to see the series end, it’s so nice to have all my questions answered and everything tied up in a nice neat package. Very satisfying. Liliana was a surprising heroine, for one she was born from incredibly evil blood, but even more surprising was the fact that Liliana could not be construed as attractive by any stretch of the imagination. Not physically anyway, no, it was her sweetness and courage that won over Micah. Micah, oh Micah, now he was quite the hero. Even though he was this fearsome being who collected the souls of the damned and guarded the gateway to the Abyss, he was still a child at his core. A tad spoiled too. He threw tantrums and demanded attention, but he also wanted to play. Um, this is where the man comes into the picture. Some of Micah’s games were not child appropriate. Reading Micah’s and Liliana’s story was a genuinely delightful experience. It was absolutely a fairytale worthy of the title ( just not one for younger ears, unless greatly edited). This would make a great little stocking stuffer for yourself or anyone who appreciates the finer points of a story well told. In fact the whole series wouldn’t be amiss for that hard to buy for person on your list.

Review – Kissing Steel By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-04T01:58:00.000-06:00

Title: Kissing Steel

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Buy link: Buy Kissing Steel Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book 2 in the Cyborg Seduction series.

All Rena wanted was to steal back a spaceship and earn enough money to buy her freedom from her travesty of a life. Her mission to recover stolen property from pirates backfired and she became a possession when she encountered cyborgs instead. Now, one of them will own her. Rena is a survivor…and she wants the very tall, big, brutally sexy cyborg who doesn’t like to share anything that belongs to him.

Steel is beyond irritated when he is maneuvered into ownership of a fragile human female. She’s not nearly big enough to handle his size or strength, yet she’s determined to get him into bed—into her. Steel realizes just what this little female is capable of when he awakens, chained to his bed, with her riding his very turned-on body. For a man who prides himself on his unyielding control, Steel soon finds Rena stripping him of it an inch at a time.

Review:

Rena is in a terrible marriage to a man who doesn't even recognize her publicly, has threatened to ruin her if she divorces him and has the wherewithal to follow through. Steel is a cyborg who isn't afraid to let his control slip enough to experience emotions and passion that most of his kind keep a tight lid on. And Rena is the only person he wants to share that passion with.

The second book in Ms. Dohner's Cyborg Seduction series was just as good as the first. This is a great story that is engrossing and intriguing with characters that show depth and emotion, not to mention passionate kisses and hot cyborg sex. Very few grammatical errors were noted, and I very much enjoyed this book.

Review – Justice By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-04T01:57:00.000-06:00

Title: Justice

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Justice Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book 4 in the New Species series.

Justice North is the face of New Species. Seeing him up close makes Jessie’s heart race. He’s the ultimate alpha male—big, muscular, exotically beautiful…and dangerous. Of course he’s off limits. But then the sexy man purrs and all bets are off.

Jessie Dupree is a mouthy, fiery human female who brings out the animal in Justice. She wants to show him how to relax, and he’s all for anything she wants to do, but Justice has sworn to protect his people and to take a Species mate. He’s torn between the woman he wants and the oath he’s taken.

Jessie knows a relationship between them probably won’t end well; heartbreak is inevitable. But that won’t stop her from freeing the wildness inside Justice and spending every moment she can steal wrapped around his hot body, making him roar with passion.

Reader Advisory: Each New Species book may be read as a standalone, but we suggest reading them in order to get the most enjoyment from the series.

Review:

Justice is the fourth book in the New Species series, and it didn't disappoint. Jessie is a senator's daughter who can get by in any situation from political tea parties to hostile raids. She is also a task force member who has been helping to free the small Gift Females and any other Species still held in captivity.

Justice is the leader of the NSO, and he will do anything, including sacrifice his own happiness, to keep his people safe. Now that he has met Jessie, he is torn between his people and the only woman who has ever made him want to change his mind.

Ms. Dohner has written a story that is very similar to Lora Leigh's Breeds series, but it is different enough to keep it interesting and unique. The book made me laugh out loud a couple times, which is always a nice addition to the smoking hot sex scenes and the gory action scenes. The characters are enjoyable and entertaining, and while there were a few grammatical errors, it was overall an excellent read.

Review – Insatiable By Cari Quinn

2011-12-04T01:56:00.000-06:00

Title: Insatiable

Author: Cari Quinn

Publisher: Loose Id

Buy Link: Buy Insatiable Here!

Rating: You want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna B.

Blurb:

Having all of her is the only thing that will satisfy him...

Shawn Griffin and Rachel Cooper have been best friends practically since birth, thanks to their families’ close relationship. But for the past few years, Shawn has been fantasizing about getting his best pal in his bed. When she announces she’s taking a trip to reconnect with an old lover, Shawn knows the time has come to put up or shut up. If she wants to go to New York City, fine. But he’s coming with her.

Rachel doesn’t know what to think of Shawn’s sudden interest. Determined to live life on her own terms, she refuses to fall right in line with her wealthy family’s wish that they get married and have perfect little babies. She just didn’t count on how determined her seemingly laid back -- and extremely sexy -- best friend would become after setting his sights on what he wants. Her, over and over again.

But when tragedy strikes, Rachel begins to wonder if she’ll lose not only her lover but her best friend too.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, exhibitionism/sex in public.

Review:

Insatiable is a novel with one of the most stubborn women I've ever met. Shawn Griffin is in love with his best friend. Rachel loves Shawn, but she doesn't want to complicate their friendship with sex, and she doesn't want to let herself fall in love with Shawn "for real" because it would make her parents and Shawn's parents happy. I wanted to smack Rachel a couple times when she appeared to be cutting off her nose to spite her face... She is in love with Shawn, but she didn't want to have anything to do with him once his parents found out about it.

Ms. Quinn has written a novel with super hot sex, likable characters (even if I wanted to smack one of them), very few grammatical errors and a realistic plot. All in all, a good read.

Review- Going All In By Jess Dee

2011-12-03T01:54:00.000-06:00

Title: Going All In

Author: Jess Dee

Publisher: Samhain

Buy Link: Buy Going All In Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

The higher the stakes, the harder they fall—in love.

Julia Savage’s weekly poker games are tearing her apart. She’s in love with two of her fellow card players, and much as she’d like to pick and confess her true feelings to one man, she won’t. Not if it means risking the love of the other.

Hunter Miles has wanted Julia for four months, and he’s about to deal a hand she couldn’t see coming. He’s determined to give her a New Year’s Eve celebration she never expected. He’s going to seduce her—in front of his friend and rival for her affections, Jay Baxter. But Jay’s not willing to lay down his cards. He’s going after Julia too, and he’s not above bluffing to get what he wants. Either way, one of them is going to win her over.

Unless they change the rules of the game. If they double up, there’s a chance they can split the pot…

Review:

Going All In is a short story about one woman in love with two men...who happen to have the hots for each other, too. The story was a little too short to have a lot of character development, but there surely is a lot of chemistry between the three poker players who end up falling in love. The sex is quite steamy, the plot is simple but sweet, and there were only a few minor grammatical errors. All in all, this is an entertaining story with m/f/m, m/m/f, m/m action and anal play.

Review – Claiming Their Mate By Stacy Espino

2011-12-03T01:52:00.000-06:00

Title: Claiming Their Mate (Pack Seduction, #1)

Author: Stacey Espino

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Buy Link: Buy Claiming Their Mate Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna

Blurb:

Pack Seduction series

Carna and her sisters carry the last of the royal blood. Every male shifter in the world craves to mate with one of the elusive princesses to secure their place in history. Only royal blood will ensure the continuation of all shifter species.

Although she may be the heir to future generations, Carna wants no part in a forced seduction. She's independent and wants to make her own choices, and mate for love, not out of necessity. Carna and her sisters split up and go into hiding, but not for long...

When a rogue group of shifters captures Carna and insists she choose one of them as her mate, she puts up the fight of her life, escaping into the forest. Once on the run again, she quickly learns that running and hiding are taking their toll on her. She needs to settle down and why not with one or more of the sexy men begging for her affections? But can she find love amongst all the chaos?

Be Warned: menage a cinq romance, menage sex, anal sex

Review:

Claiming Their Mate is a short novel about a wolf princess on the run from overbearing males who want only the prestige of claiming her. She wants to find love, or at least the shifter equivalent of it, but she is kidnapped by a motley crew of shifters who insist that she was made for them. Carna is instantly in lust with Blue and Austin, and later with Jacob and Marcus. How could she ever pick, and since she is infuriated that they dared to kidnap her in the first place, why should she choose one of these shifters?

Ms. Espino has written a very fast paced story with scorching sex, vivid details and electrifying chemistry between her characters. This book was enough to get your blood pumping and your breathing up, so enjoy the ride as Carna is claimed by her mates.

Review – Best S&M Erotica Volume 3 Edited By M. Christian

2011-12-03T01:50:00.000-06:00

Title: Best S&M Erotica Volume III

Author: Edited By M. Christian

Publisher: Logical-Lust Publications

Buy Link: Buy Best S&M 3 Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

In these pages you'll find light stories, dark stories, powerful stories, subtle stories, fierce stories, and even romantic stories – but all of them dealing with the basic idea of consensually giving up, or taking, sexual power and control.

If you've only been interested in what S/M is and can be, or if you’re an old hand to the scene, these stories will open doors to unexplored sexual and sensual worlds, expand your erotic horizons to new and maybe even challenging new ways of looking at, and experiencing, sex play.

Featuring Stories By:
PM White, Sharon Wachsler, Kane, Jean Roberta, Jason Rubis, Shanna Germain, Cecilia Tan, Xan West, Craig J. Sorensen, Ralph Greco, Jr., Theda Hudson, Jerry Rosen, Jan Vander Laenen, Mykola Dementiuk, Jude Mason, Billierosie, Oatmeal Girl, and the editor M. Christian.

Review:

This is a book that caters to a different kind of lifestyle. It is not all about the pain that many may think. Each of the many stories in this anthology was a great read. Every one of them had strong characters and an interesting storyline. From cross dressers to pain lovers this book has it all. Whether you enjoy this kind of kink or not these stories are a good read. I also enjoyed being able to read the stories and learn each of the authors writing styles. Having the stories be short was nice as well. I was able to read a story from start to finish in one sitting and not worry about loosing the flow of the story when I needed to put the book down.

Many of these stories are centered not only around arousal but also on trust as well. Making this not only an interesting but also an entertaining read for me. I loved seeing all the different ways the characters enjoyed themselves. There is a lot of diversity in the stories and any reader should be able to find a story that intrigues them. I enjoyed them all and cannot even begin to pick a favorite. The editor and the numerous authors did a wonderful job of bringing this world to life for this reader.

Review – Berrr’s Vow By Laurann Dohner

2011-12-02T01:47:00.000-06:00

Title: Berrr's Vow (Zorn Warriors, Book Four)

Author: Laurann Dohner

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

Buy link: Buy Berrr’s Vow Here!

Rating: You Gotta Read

Reviewed by: Donna

Blurb:

Book four in the Zorn Warriors series.

Kidnapped from Earth and transported to planet Zorn to be sold as a sex slave, Shanna is one angry, frightened woman ready to fight anyone who tries to touch her. Raised in foster care, she’s not going to take any crap off some alien men no matter how big, terrifying or muscular they are. Before she can be sold, she’s freed by a huge, sexy Zorn warrior…a warrior with the most beautiful blue eyes she’s ever seen. Shanna demands he take her under his protection when she realizes she’s stuck on Zorn.

Hyvin Berrr, the leader of Zorn, thinks humans are helpless and weak. Shanna decides to teach the big hunk he’s wrong by knocking him on his backside. He might think she’s playing but she’s trying to teach him a lesson. She’s not sure if she wants to fight her feelings for the sexy alien, though if a woman has to lose a battle, this just might be the one time to concede.

Review:

Wow! This was a great book that could be read as a stand alone, but I enjoyed it better having read the first three books in this series. Ms. Dohner has kidnapped her heroine and sent her into space to the planet Zorn where she is to be sold as a sex slave to horny aliens. Hmm. Zorn women can't have sex more than once a day or so, and since Zorn men have such huge appetites, sexually speaking, they have to have intercourse with many different women in order to remain healthy. Okay, as crazy as that may sound in my review, it definitely works in the book. Berrr is the ruler of Zorn, and he always keeps his vows. He is bound to another woman, but he instantly falls for Shanna. As much as he wishes he could start a new life with Shanna, he is torn by a vow he made long ago to a woman who doesn't love him and lives to make his life miserable.

Ms. Dohner's characters have a charisma that is palpable. Shanna and Berrr have an instant chemistry that is addictive, and I wanted to see them live happily ever after... Which, of course, they did! I love the red and black planet and the oddities that Ms. Dohner has come up with to make the setting "realistic" as an alien world. The sex was sizzling, the antagonist was easy to hate and the hero and heroine lived happily ever after. Even with a few minor grammatical errors, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you like sci-fi erotica, You Gotta Read it!

Review – A Long Time Comin’ By Cerise Deland

2011-12-02T01:46:00.000-06:00

Title: A Long time Comin’

Author: Cerise Deland

Published by: Self Published

Buy link: Buy A Long Time Comin’ Here!

Rating: You Need To Read

Reviewed by: Donna B.

Blurb:

A sex toy party with her gal pals? Caitlyn Hagerty buys four, then commits to showing them to the only man she's ever had eyes for. Problem is can John Ramos care for Cait enough to use the toys for one wild night? And what if Cait wants more than that? Does Ram have the time to commit?

Review:

A Long time Comin’ is a fun short story about a sassy vintage clothing store owner and a Special Ops soldier who have been friends since forever. As these types of relationships go, being friends for so long can cause one to fear losing such a close bond. But both Cait and Ram would love nothing more than to turn their friendship into something more. Ms. Deland has written a very stirring story of friends becoming lovers and the challenges that only love will overcome. The characters were fun, the plot interesting, the sex hot and the overall effect - one enjoyable read.

Review - A Little Harmless Submission By Melissa Schroeder

2011-12-02T01:43:00.000-06:00

Title: A Little Harmless Submission

Author: Melissa Schroeder

Publisher: Melissa Schroeder

Buy Link: Buy A Little Harmless Submission Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

For a tough as nails Dom hunting a sadistic serial killer is nothing compared to losing his heart.

Rome Carino is hunting a predator. One who likes to hurt submissives and the most popular BDSM club’s patrons are being targeted. With each fresh kill, he gets more brazen. Rome knows he just needs one little break, but before he can make headway, the FBI shows up. Worse, the uptight, buttoned-down Special Agent Maria Callahan suggests a plan that is dangerous, but worth it because it might just catch the killer. If Rome can keep his mind on the case and off the beautiful FBI agent, he'll be just fine.

Maria is still trying to step out of her legendary father's shadow and knows just how to do it. Luring the killer by posing as Rome's new sub seems like a good idea. That is, until undercover becomes real life and she finds herself tangled up with a man who amazes and scares her at the same time. Her growing attraction to the Honolulu Police Detective is a little too much to handle. Even knowing that, she can't help falling in love with the tough Dom and losing herself in the games they play in the bedroom.

Rome is overwhelmed by his need for Maria. He has never had a sub respond to him the way she does and no matter what he does, he feels himself slipping off that cliff into love. As their relationship starts to unfold, he realizes that he will do anything to win her heart, to convince her to become his sub for a lifetime. But before he can do anything, the killer turns his attention on Rome and the one thing he holds dear: Maria.

WARNING: The following book contains: A Dom who thinks he can do no wrong, a new sub who is about to teach him he can, palm trees, a trip or two to Rough ‘n Ready, a flirty Aussie Dom with questionable motives, old friends, and a new enemy. Yeah, it might be called Harmless, but you Addicts know it’s anything but.

Review:

This is number six in the Harmless series and it just keeps getting better. Not many authors can keep a series going and keep it fresh but I can say that I have found one who knows how to satisfy me as well as having me eager for the next story. In this book we get Rome and Maria’s story. They must team together to find a serial killer. Maria has worked her way up in the FBI and sees this case as a way to prove that she earned her spot not got it because of whom her father was. Rome is determined to find the killer and is more than willing to work with Maria.

I love that this story has a strong woman who can stand up for herself. Maria is great, she can be the strongest woman or even man on the job but alone and with Rome she begins to find herself in the bedroom. Rome is a wonderful man and I love the way he looses his control with Maria. The fireworks start right from the beginning between these two and watching them turn into something more was a great read. The two burn up the pages as their relationship blooms.

The author does a wonderful job of intertwining the romance with the undercover operation that the Rome and Maria are doing. I was glued to my seat and couldn’t stop turning the pages. You never loose interest in either part of the story and neither one takes over the book. We also get to see characters from past books. I just loved May and Dee. Their interactions with Maria were great especially when they helped her find clothes for her first night at the club.

A Little Harmless submission is a great addition to the Harmless series as well as my library and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.

Review – Yes, Justin By Michele Zurlo

2011-12-01T05:42:00.000-06:00

Title: Yes, Justin

Author: Michele Zurlo

Publisher: Loose Id

Buy Link: Buy Yes, Justin Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By: Donna Bryant
Blurb:

After fifteen years and two kids, the romance has fled from Trish’s marriage. She’s a different woman now, and she wants different things. When she stumbles upon an emailed ad from Oasis, an adult fantasy fulfillment service, she seizes the opportunity to spend a weekend having her body and soul mastered by a man who is completely focused on her.

Justin is shocked when he finds out his wife is planning to cheat on him. Willing to do anything to keep the woman he loves, he arranges with Oasis to become the Dom she wants. He’ll carry out her kidnap fantasy, fulfill her desire to be dominated, and force her to confront the reasons she wanted to be there in the first place.

Review:

Patricia thinks that her husband of fifteen years is having an affair, so she signs up with Oasis to have her fantasy fulfilled by a complete stranger. The only problem is that her fantasy is for her husband to dominate her and do all sorts of kinky things that make her submissive nature blossom. Luckily for Justin, Oasis realized that he is the only man who can fulfil his wife's fantasy.

While this is a relatively short read at only 66 pages, it was full of hot sex, fantasies fulfilled and a happily ever after. The characters were likable, the plot was believable, and it left me wondering where on earth these classes can be found for my husband to attend!

Review – Why I Love Waiters By T.A. Chase

2011-12-01T05:40:00.000-06:00

Title: Why I Love Waiters

Author: T.A Chase

Publisher: Amber Quill Press

Buy Link: Buy Why I Love Waiters Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Layne

Blurb:

As a member of a covert army unit, John Davidson isn’t scared of many things, yet one look into the dark blue eyes of Heath Kane and John knew a different kind of fear for the first time. John couldn’t be gay, at least not out and proud in his unit, even with Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell being repealed. He’d never been interested enough in any man to risk the fallout.
Heath Kane left home never wanting to return. The army-base town wasn’t the best place for a gay kid to grow up, but his grandmother did her darnedest to make it good for him. Now he’s paying her back for all her love. She’s getting older and needs help with the family restaurant, so he waits tables at the Corner Café while taking online courses to get his degree. Even though the army base provides lots of buff eye candy, he knows it’s best to keep his eyes to himself.
Yet neither Heath nor John can deny their attraction, and when John returns from a visit up North, he seems willing to act on their mutual interest. Are John and Heath willing to risk everything to hold each other?

Review:

Why I Love Waiters is the sequel to T.A Chase’s Why I Love Geeks and while it had its moments, Why I love Waiters didn’t really pull me in.

John is military, serving through ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’. His attraction to waiter, Heath complicates his life but he isn’t willing to give him up. I didn’t find myself invested in these characters at all. The dialog read fake and stilted and I found myself thanking my lucky stars when the annoying Herb from Geek made an appearance. At least then I’d be hating someone. Heath was too sweet and puppyish.

I found John and Heath’s chemistry non-existent and the sex scenes blah. I actually liked Heath’s Grandmother and enjoyed their scenes together. She was funny.

John’s character was more fleshed out than Heath’s though T.A Chase could’ve dug a bit deeper into his Military life. When John’s brother Chuck and the every-yammering Herb show up, they steal the show and the HEA.

Review – Why I Love Geeks By T.A. Chase

2011-11-30T05:39:00.000-06:00

Title: Why I love Geeks

Author: T.A Chase

Publisher: Amber Quill Press

Buy Link: Buy Why I Love Geeks Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Layne

Blurb:

Chuck Davidson has an aversion to modern technology. He likes sports, beer, and classic cars. Chuck’s a homicide detective in Boston, and it’s put a damper on his relationships. Hard to find a guy who will put up with his crazy hours. How is he to know that planning the impending death of his newest phone will bring him in contact with a cute geek who just might have a thing for rugged, slightly out-of-touch with the newest gadgets older men?

Herbert Pommerest has never been on a date or even kissed a man before. Oh, he knows he’s gay. He did all the experiments to ensure it was true, not just a rebellious phase or a knee-jerk reaction because women scared him to death. It’s easy to hide himself behind his research and daydream about what having a boyfriend would be like. Saving an expensive phone from an early demise brings him in contact with a street-wise mature detective. Suddenly Herb wishes he knew how to flirt because he’d love to take some lessons from Chuck Davidson of the sensual kind.

Can a geek and a detective find common ground between their worlds before one of Chuck’s cases threatens to put Herb in danger?

Review:

A geek and a cop. Opposite yes, but T.A Chase brings these two together and drama ensues. There were a few things to love in Why I Love Geeks and an equal amount to dislike.

Why is a homicide detective so against technology? That question is never really answered in the story, but it seems Chuck has a thing against all things tech. A cute stranger on the street helps him out. A geeky stranger who can’t stop talking, but doesn’t know much beyond his scientific projects.

I liked Herb in the beginning but he quickly wore me out with the constant yammering. He’s a genius, we get that. Does important work, got that too. And he’s never been kissed. Or had sex. The usual.

Chuck finds him adorable so I guess that’s all that matters. Chuck I liked, he’s genuine and really a big teddy bear who falls head over heels for a man who keeps him on his toes.

I loved Chuck’s huge, meddlesome family. Got one of those myself so I know the urge to just want to run away and hide.

Great love scenes. Didn’t really buy the plot surrounding the case Chuck and his partner were working, but I can overlook that in favor of the love scenes.

Review - Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines By Sandra Sookoo

2011-11-30T05:38:00.000-06:00

Title: Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines

Author: Sandra Sookoo

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy Link: Buy Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

When unassuming mailroom worker Kate Little agrees to become an underwear tester for a marketing company, things get uncomfortable fast. Not only has she never worn “fancy” underpants before, she has to work closely with handsome marketing manager Bryan Eddleman, and that’s enough to keep her in a constant state of confusion. Trouble is, Bryan’s competing with another manager for a promotion that hinges on the results of the test group. Kate can’t determine if his sudden interest is really in her or her surprisingly insightful weekly reports on foundation garments. Add a jealous coworker out to sabotage Kate’s budding love life, an overly helpful gay friend with nothing better to do than shove her into Bryan’s arms, and a rambunctious teacup dog to the chaos and you’ll have a typical day in Kate’s less than ordinary life. The last thing she needs is panty lines.

Review:

First off I just have to say that Abby is one nasty piece of work. She really is mean and cold hearted and puts Kate through Hell. I loved Kate especially when she shows her backbone. She is a smart woman and doesn’t give herself enough credit. Watching her begin to bloom was a great read. Kate will become someone to contend with if she continues to grow. It was nice to see a full figured woman like Kate find herself and maybe even love and having a man like Bryan as her love interest made the read all the better. He is a good man who loves with all his heart. The two make a wonderful couple, the heat between them only increases through out the story.

This book grabbed me right from the start and had me turning the pages to see just what would happen next. Not only do the main characters grab your attention but the secondary ones shine as well. I adored Darren and The wardrobe Goddess and hope to see more of them in the future. Abby on the other hand is a villain in every sense and she definitely has you hating her right from the start. She makes quite an impression as you can see from the beginning of my review. The author does a wonderful job of bringing the characters and their world to life making this a book that should not be missed.

Review – Under A Rock By India Harper

2011-11-30T05:36:00.000-06:00

Title: Under A Rock

Author: India Harper

Publisher: Amber Allure

Buy Link: Buy Under A Rock Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed by: Layne

Blurb:

When his father crossed a powerful Mexican drug cartel, Keith Lewis lost everything—his identity, his way of life, and the freedom to live in the open. With a new name, Keith is now in witness protection, and his handler has brought him to the last place on Earth anyone would ever look for him: a cattle ranch in Montana. What Keith didn’t expect to find there was a handsome, tempting former Navy SEAL.
Tanner Bruenig retired to the Montana countryside to try his hand at ranching and savor the peace of hard work and few neighbors. When you’re former military and your cousin’s in the Marshals’ Service, however, it’s easy enough to get roped into providing a safe haven once in a while. Keith isn’t the first witness to shelter in Tanner’s house or to join him in his bed. But he may be the first one Tanner wants to keep there...

Review:

With his life in danger, Keith is given a new identity and carted off to the middle of nowhere, dropped in the lap of a former Navy SEAL.

Tanner is a loner, who it seems gets his jollies by sleeping with the men who’s put under his protection. Keith is no different and soon enough, they’re doing the nasty. Amid the forced attraction is the smidgen of a plot that needed to be flesh out but was left forgotten. I didn’t buy the chemistry between the two men for an instant. It appeared India Harper found it a convenient step in Under A Rock for the men to hit the sheets, so they did.

There was nothing interesting about the characters, no deep development. There were a few attempts at funny and even a flash of heat with the sex scenes, but overall Under A Rock was a quick, predictable, and forgettable read.

Review – Time To Live By H.C. Brown

2011-11-29T05:35:00.000-06:00

Title: Time to Live

Author: H C Brown

Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing LLC:

Buy Link: Buy Time To Live Here!

Rating: You Want/Need To Read

Reviewed By Gabrielle

Blurb:

Seth Bannock is living a lie. Nothing in his life is working out. He likes women . . . he respects women . . . but when he tries to kiss a woman and she does that tongue thing, he wants to spew.
Confused by his body's reaction to the men at his gym, Seth seeks help from the only gay club he knows—Floggers. Is the man crazy? Seeking answers, the sweet, vanilla virgin marches into the BDSM club to speak to the owner Rio Knight.
Realization that he has been on the wrong team all his life comes in the form of a six-foot-seven Adonis by the name of Matt Duffey. Instantly attracted to the leather-clad alpha male, Seth must leave his old life behind and embrace his newfound sexuality.
Seth thought his life had complications before he met Matt, but nothing comes close to the rollercoaster ride in the big dom's arms.

Review:

Coming out was never so hot. Seth finds himself at a loss and in need of answers but whom can he ask? When he meets Matt a Dom at Floggers there is an instant connection but when Seth doesn’t hear from Matt for days he begins to second-guess what they have together. Can the two work things out or are things over before they even start?

Once again I found myself at Floggers and enjoying my visit. I adore Seth. He is in search of the truth and watching him find himself was a great read. I loved that even though he has some vulnerability he is still a strong man. He loves with all his heart and is more than ready to share it with Matt. Matt is not only a wonderful Dom but a great man as well. He is more than willing to give their feelings a chance. The heat between the two is incredible and turns into so much more as the book goes on. Even as quick as this read is we still get the depth of the relationship between the two men. I really enjoyed seeing the interaction between them. Seth and Matt make a great couple. Not only are they hot together but you can also see that everything that they do is full of love. My only complaint is that this story was over to soon. I hope that we get to see more of Matt and Seth in the future.

Review – This Rough Magic By Josh Lanyon

2011-11-29T05:33:00.000-06:00

Title: This Rough Magic

Author: Josh Lanyon

Publisher: Loose id

Buy Link: Buy This Rough Magic Here!

Rating: You Want To Read

Reviewed by: Layne

Blurb:

Wealthy San Francisco playboy Brett Sheridan thinks he knows the score when he hires tough guy private eye Neil Patrick Rafferty to find a priceless stolen folio of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Brett’s convinced his partner-in-crime sister is behind the theft -- a theft that’s liable to bring more scandal to their eccentric family, and cost Brett his marriage to society heiress Juliet Lennox. What Brett doesn’t count on is the instant and powerful attraction that flares between him and Rafferty.
Once before, Brett took a chance on loving a man, only to find himself betrayed and broken. This time around there’s too much at risk. But as the Bard himself would say, Journey’s end in lovers meeting.

Review:

The setting of Josh Lanyon’s This Rough Magic—1930’s San Francisco—was prevalent throughout the story, transporting me to a time I’d never been, but one that felt infinitely familiar. A testament to the author’s great writing and descriptive style.

Brett is a play boy from a wealthy familiar, engaged to marry into another influential family. His problem though, is two-fold: his family is broke and his sister may or may not have stolen something priceless from his fiancé’s family. Brett hires investigator Neil Rafferty to snoop around and things get way more interesting.

Rafferty is a guy’s guy. He speaks his mind and is quite open about his sexuality. In Brett he sees a man weighed down by his responsibility to his family and their expectations of him. Despite the obvious disparity in their social standings, Rafferty feels a tenderness towards Brett that he can’t hide. I liked Rafferty’s easy demeanor and straight forward attitude. The relationship between him and Brett is sweet to watch, intertwined perfectly between the mystery they’re trying to solve.

There were also some funny moments in This Rough Magic courtesy of the supporting cast of likeable and not so likeable characters.

The sex in This Rough Magic isn’t explicit, yet when Rafferty and Brett come together you can’t help but be party to the desperate need they share. A really great story from Josh Lanyon.

Review – The Unhewn Stone By Wendy Laharnar

2011-11-29T05:31:00.000-06:00

Title: The Unhewn Stone

Author: Wendy Laharnar

Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing

Buy Link: Buy The Unhewn Stone Here!

Rating: You Could Read

Reviewed By: Janelle

Blurb:

When teenager, Stefan Gessler, answers the call to restore his family's honour, he discovers it takes more than superior education and pride to equip him for life in the Middle Ages. His dangerous adventures threaten his courage and challenge his beliefs.

Immersed in the turbulent events of the Wilhelm Tell legend, Stefan pretends to be a wizard when an avaricious sibyl mistakes him for an alchemist. The shape-shifting sibyl and an evil knight have diabolical reasons to want the wizard dead.

Faced with his own demons and those of medieval Switzerland, how will Stefan complete his mission and escape the fourteenth century...alive?

Life in the Middle Ages is a dangerous game, even for Üserwäälti, the Chosen One.

Review:

I’m not sure if this book is too short or has too many sub-plots. Either way, none of them get enough attention to create any real tension. And some of them just seem to be...there. Like Cassandra, as in the Cassandra, the girl cursed by Apollo to see the misfortune of the future but have no one believe her prophecies. How the heck did she get to medieval Switzerland? And, why? She doesn’t contribute anything really.

This leads to a story that drags, as the characters wander place to place always in search of one item or another with a goal that isn’t always clear.

This story also stumbles over a personal pet peeve: random foreign words. The story takes place in Switzerland, I get that, but I don’t speak any of the four languages recognized. And every time I came to a non-English word or phrase, it threw me out of the story, and sent me wandering over to babel fish. This is never good, they are completely unnecessary when there is an English word that makes more sense. While I can see it adding a hint of authenticity and depth to a work, even if the reader is bi-lingual, the change is very jarring.

There are of course exceptions to this: one, when there is no good translation, and two, when there is no translation at all. Take a word like youkai, translated roughly from Japanese you get demon or spirit, but that isn’t really what it means. Or a word like Rhwe, a South African word that means to “fall asleep on the floor without a mat while drunk and naked.” There is just no word in English that means that.

Overall, this story is pretty average. It has plenty of plot-points, but none are given enough attention to really stand out.

Review – The Starlight Rite By Cherise Sinclair

2011-11-28T05:30:00.000-06:00

Title: The Starlight Rite

Author: Cherise Sinclair

Publisher: Loose Id

Buy Link: Buy The Starlight Rite Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewed by: Gabrielle

Blurb:

Her voice is known throughout the galaxy; her face is completely unknown.

Fleeing her monstrous husband back on puritanical Earth and the police assassins he's hired, singer Mella Archer becomes stranded on the frontier planet of Nexus. Desperate to survive, she picks the wrong target--Dain, the head of planetary security.

Dain is amused by the attempted theft, and when Mella is sentenced to serve time indentured as a bedroom slave, he buys her contract. As he introduces the repressed Earther to the pleasures of sex with a dominating warrior, he slowly comes to realize that the little thief has stolen his heart.

When the monster arrives on Nexus and has lunch with Dain, Mella is panic-stricken. Her owner must be part of the conspiracy to kill her, and it will only be a matter of time before the monster discovers that she’s still alive. She attempts to escape. She fails. Embittered by her lies and mistrust, Dain returns her to Indenture Hall to be sold again.

Now the monster has found her. And she has nowhere left to run...

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and elements (including/not limited to: bondage, caning, spanking), dubious consent.

Review:

This book was a step in a different direction from what I am used to from this author. While Cherise Sinclair is an auto buy for me. I am used to her contemporary books and wondered how I would like this futuristic sci-fi book. I can say that I worried for nothing. I really enjoyed this book. I was so engrossed with the characters and the plot that I stayed up well into the night and finished this story in one sitting.

I loved Dain. He is a man who loves with all his heart and is always ready to keep those that he cares for safe. Mella is a strong woman, who goes through so much in her life and still finds the good in it. My heart went out to Mella and all that she had to endure in this story and only hoped that she would finally trust Dain enough to let him help her. The heat sizzles between these two right from the start and only burned hotter as I turned the pages. They make a beautiful couple so in tune to each other.

I enjoyed watching Mella open up and find herself. She has lived a sheltered life on Earth where sex is only a memory. Seeing her loose her prudish ways and find her enjoyment was a nice read.

The author does a wonderful job of bringing this new world to life and telling Mella and Dain’s story. I was pulled right in to the story from the first page and it did not let me go until the very end. Making me glad that I took a chance on this book.

Review – The Ruby Kiss By Helen Scott Taylor

2011-11-28T05:29:00.000-06:00

Title: The Ruby Kiss

Author: Helen Scott Taylor

Publisher: Dorchester Publishing

Buy link: Buy The Ruby Kiss Here!

Rating: You Need to Read

Reviewer: Wendy Mitchell

Blurb:

A Powerful Nightstalker: Nightshade hungers to bring the strong and beautiful to their knees beneath the ecstasy of his bite, but he has never known sexual lust--not until he meets Ruby McDonald. The curvy redhead wields attitude and strength like an ax and she would be the perfect mother of his children. Caught in a clash between the Seelie and Unseelie courts, he battles not only for her survival but also for her heart.

A Mortal with a Secret: Plagued by magic inherited from a father she never knew, Ruby wants answers. Nightshade has them. But when he crashes into her bedroom late one night, the Fairy's silvery eyes, dark intensity, and striking black wings tempt her with a whole lot more: a mysterious world waiting to be explored, a dangerous love that binds her in body, mind, and spirit, and the children she thought she could never have. The future offers her a choice between freedom and a power some would kill to possess. Should she deny her desires, or succumb to the seduction of...THE RUBY KISS

Review:

Ruby MacDonald has not lived what anyone could consider a normal life. Having been told by her mother that her father was an Angel, and then watching her mother spend her life searching for that angel, has left Ruby with a strong desires to put down roots and live a normal life. That is until a handsome fairy named Nightshade comes crashing through her roof to land in her bed. Ruby is the first female Nightshade has ever felt an attraction for, and he lets her know of his desire to create a son with her. This was not music to her ears and she sends the fairy packing. This is just the beginning of Ruby’s adventure with Nightshade. It seems that her father wasn’t an angel at all, but a Hunter for the Seelie court, and daddy now wants his little girl’s powers for himself. Hopefully Nightshade doesn’t hold a grudge.

The Ruby Kiss was much more than what I expected when I began to read this story. With layers and layers of story arcs and multiple shades of grey to character motivations, this book was a slingshot into a world of magic and treachery. I just loved Nightshade in this book. He was such a puzzle for me, I just couldn’t get a handle on who he really was because he kept surprising me. There was an absolutely delicious hint of bi-sexuality to his character that drove me insane, though the sneaky fairy kept me guessing through the entire book. I loved the story and the hero, I loved the returning characters, heck I even liked the quasi-villain Twister. The story was expertly crafted, easily capturing and holding my attention until the last page. The emotional range was immense, taking me from laughter to heartbreak in a tumultuous ride. The world created in this series was very detailed and I became immersed in the fantasy quickly. The heroine Ruby was my only sore point. A great many of the mishaps that occurred to the protagonists happened due to something she did or didn’t do. This was a bit frustrating and really almost had me pushing Nightshade in Troy’s direction. She did claim her heroine status in the end and redeemed herself rather nicely. I am still on pins and needles about several of the background characters, so future books in this world are absolutely on my “must read” list. Here’s a hearty thumbs up for a job well done.