Review: On the Island

On the Island
Tracey Garvis-Graves
Contemporary Romance
Self Published
September 3, 2011

*Some Spoilers*

When thirty-year-old English teacher Anna Emerson is offered a job tutoring T.J. Callahan at his family's summer rental in the Maldives, she accepts without hesitation; a working vacation on a tropical island trumps the library any day.

T.J. Callahan has no desire to leave town, not that anyone asked him. He's almost seventeen and if having cancer wasn't bad enough, now he has to spend his first summer in remission with his family - and a stack of overdue assignments - instead of his friends.

Anna and T.J. are en route to join T.J.'s family in the Maldives when the pilot of their seaplane suffers a fatal heart attack and crash-lands in the Indian Ocean. Adrift in shark-infested waters, their life jackets keep them afloat until they make it to the shore of an uninhabited island. Now Anna and T.J. just want to survive and they must work together to obtain water, food, fire, and shelter. Their basic needs might be met but as the days turn to weeks, and then months, the castaways encounter plenty of other obstacles, including violent tropical storms, the many dangers lurking in the sea, and the possibility that T.J.'s cancer could return. As T.J. celebrates yet another birthday on the island, Anna begins to wonder if the biggest challenge of all might be living with a boy who is gradually becoming a man.

I downloaded this book back in March when it was listed for 0.99 on Kindle not realizing at the time how it would take off and become a best selling novel.   I simply thought the premise was interesting, had read some positive reviews and at 0.99 it was worth a try.   But then I forgot about it.  Oops.  Fast forward a few months and On the Island is on the New York Times bestseller list and I decided to find out what the fuss is all about.

The premise isn't new.  People stranded on a deserted island.  The plane crashes and Anna and T.J. survive long enough to make it to the island.  It's on the island that their relationship turns from teacher and student to two adults, neither knowing if they will ever see their families again.  One thing I will say about this book - it makes you think! 

Neither Anna or T.J. have any type of survival training but they use common sense and what they've learned in their lives to make their island as safe a place as possible.  As the weeks turn to months the relationship changes as Anna begins to look at T.J. not as someone she needs to take care, as she is the adult, but to someone she can rely on the way she would another adult.  T.J. begins to look at Anna as more than just his teacher.  He doesn't see her as someone old enough to be his much older sister but as the woman who has become his close friend whom he is also attracted to. 

The time Anna and T.J. spend on the island is a study in what to do and what not to do when stranded on a deserted island with little chance for rescue.  They know, as the time passes, that their chances of rescue are disappearing.  I think it's part of that mindset that helps them think in terms beyond teacher and student to become two adults who may not ever see another soul.  There is the reality that they are stuck on the island together for the rest of their lives.  Why not seek comfort in the person who has become your best friend? 

For those that are wondering, T.J. is almost 19 when he and Anna become intimate.  So while in the real world this may still be looked down on but it is not illegal.  I will say he was a very mature 19 given everything he had been through from the cancer to the plane crash.  T.J.'s maturity came through and left me forgetting his age and focusing more on his abilities.  He takes the initiative when needed and doesn't let his youth hold him back or use it as an excuse for not doing his share.  I found I liked T.J. and had a lot of respect for him by the end of the book. 

The way both Anna and T.J. saw their relationship and romance shows how they both had very different viewpoints.  It makes sense since Anna is 14 years older than T.J. and has more experience when it comes to relationships.  I do think having survived cancer and at such a young age gave T.J. the perspective to not care so much what others thought of him.  He knew what he wanted, Anna, and he didn't care what society thought even if that society was thousands of miles away. 

Anna had more concerns about who their family and friends would react when/if they were rescued.  She took those concerns with her when they were rescued but she didn't dismiss T.J. feelings which I thought showed how much she did love him.  It wasn't just a matter of location and being the only ones there on the island, Anna really came to love the man T.J. had become. 

The way the story was handled after Anna and T.J. are rescued had a number of fairly plausible occurrences.  There were some instances of coincidences and self-sacrifice that I found somewhat unbelievable but it didn't take away from the impact of the story. 

Another thing about this book is it has stayed with me.  It has been over a week since I finished reading On the Island but it's impact is still strong and I had no problem remembering many of the details without refering to my notes.  That surprised me since my memory isn't what it use to be and I often find myself referring to my notes. 

On the Island does provide an interesting, often intense look at human nature.  It shows the courage it takes to not only survive catastrophes but the aftermath when life tries to return to normal.  

Rating:  B+

Review: The Rift Walker

The Rift Walker
Clay & Susan Griffith
Steampunk
Vampire Empire Trilogy/Book 2
Prometheus/September 20, 2011

*Spoilers for Book 1*

Princess Adele abandons duty and embarks on a desperate quest to keep her nation from genocide as the Equatorian Empire and American Republic strategize plans for victory against the vampire clans of the north.  Reunited with her great love, the mysterious adventurer known to the world as the Greyfriar, Adele is pursued by her own people as well as her vengeful husband, Senator Clark. With the human alliance in disarray, Prince Cesare, lord of the British vampire clan, strikes at the very heart of Equatoria.

As Adele fights to bring order to her world, she learns more about the strange powers she exhibited in the north. If she could ever bring this power under her command, she could be death to vampires.  But such a victory will also cost the life of Adele's beloved Greyfriar.

A captivating mix of high adventure and alternate history, the Vampire Empire trilogy brings epic political themes to life withing a tale of heartbreaking romance, sacrifice, and heroism.

The second book in this vampire steampunk trilogy gives the reader more insight to the world of the vampires and the humans.  We see how the vampires think of humans as cattle, much in the same way humans of today view animals - as a food source.  This is shown in graphic detail not only with the feeding from but the hunting of the humans.  Hunting is a sport to relieve boredom with the added bonus of a meal at the end.  This isn't always an easy read but brutal at times.

Princess Adele, recovered from her dangerous adventures in the north, now faces her wedding to the arrogant, overbearing Senator Clark.  Clark sees Adele as a means to an end, a way for him to become Emperor rather than a wife to cherish.  Adele knows this, loathes Clark but doesn't see a way out of the marriage.  She does try to discuss the situation with her father but it leads nowhere.  You can't help feel sorry for Adele but that doesn't last long because Adele is a strong heroine and part of that strength lies in her ability to see beyond the surface and believe in her own powers.

Greyfriar is a fascinating hero.  He goes against his basic instincts of a vampire and instead treats humans as more than just a meal on two legs.  He lives in the north, pretending to be the weaker of the two heirs to the British throne when all along he is just as cunning and intelligent, perhaps more so, than his brother Cesare.   It's interesting to see Gareth aka Greyfriar interacting with other vampires specifically his brother and his allies.  Gareth must play the role of vampire while ensuring no one suspects where his true feelings lie.  He lets his brother think he's weak and no threat to the throne even though Gareth is the eldest of the two.

The story holds much action and adventure which keeps the pace moving along at a fairly quick beat.  There are some slower moments that allow for the political drama to play out.  There were a couple occasions when I became a bit anxious for the faster pace but overall the story was well balanced with action, adventure and political intrigue.  The politics are complex but well thought with a few surprises that leave the reader wanting the next book now!  Each characters has their own agenda, their own vision, for what the world should look like.  For Adele and Gareth, they have similar visions but the means to the end may not be what they had planned.  I did enjoy seeing the actions and reactions each character made and how the authors brought it all together. 

The world building should be mentioned since it is an integral part of the trilogy.  There are plenty of what are considered steampunk elements throughout the story from the descriptions of the clothing to the airships and the battles in the skies.  There is also an urban fantasy feel with vampires, magic and loads of weapons.  I love how this world has been created with the different elements so it is not so simple to place in one genre but a mixture, giving  a decidedly unique feel to it. 

After a little bit of a slow start, the second book in the Vampire Empire trilogy had me racing to the end to see who would live and who would die.  With plenty of revelations and no doubt more to come, the third book can't get here fast enough!

Rating: A-

Vampire Empire Trilogy 

The Greyfriar
The Rift Walker
The Kingmakers (September 4, 2012)

Giddup Cowboy!

I love cowboys!  From the spur wearing, guns blazing cowboys of the old west to the wrangler wearing, truck driving cowboys of present day.  I love them all!  So when I come across new releases with cowboy heroes, I have to share. :)

The Last Renegade

SHE HIRED HIM TO PROTECT HER TOWN

As the owner of the Pennyroyal Saloon and Hotel, Lorraine Berry is privy to almost everything that goes on in Bitter Springs, Wyoming—including the bloodshed plaguing its citizens. With all of the good men dying at the hands of a local rancher and his three sons, Raine hires a shootist to be the town's protector. But her handsome new employee is more than a hired hand; he's a man that keeps his guns close and his secrets closer.

BUT NOTHING COULD PROTECT HER HEART

After a chance encounter on a train, Kellen Coltrane travels to the Pennyroyal to carry out a dying man's last wish. But once he meets the hotel's fiery-haired proprietor, Coltrane finds himself assuming the role of the shootist's accomplice and agrees to protect Bitter Springs. And as he learns more about Raine's own
tragedy, Coltrane can't deny his growing desire for the courageous widow, or the urge to protect her from the threat that draws near.

Jo Goodman is a long time favorite author of mine.  She has written some wonderful historical romance with cowboy and non-cowboy heroes alike.  Her heroines are an eclectic group of women whose strengths are not always as obvious as the heroes.  The Last Renegade is set for release on September 4. 2012. 

Wild Texas Rose

Twenty-five-year-old Rose McMurray may be beautiful, smart, and capable of running her family's ranch at Whispering Mountain, but she's backed away from marriage three times without giving anyone reasons. Everyone thinks she is a coward, afraid of any adventure, including falling in love. She's never done a single wild or reckless thing in her life...until now. 

Duncan McMurray, like Rose, was adopted into the family. As a Texas Ranger, he swears he'll never settle down and marry. He's been Rose's guardian angel since they were kids but for the first time in their lives he's the one who has caused her to be in danger. Somehow, he has to protect her from an outlaw gang determined to kill her without letting Rose know of the danger she's in. He's convinced that her heart can't take the stress if she knows...the only question is can his heart take the nearness of her.
When opposites collide the adventure begins...

Author Jodi Thomas is another long time favorite of mine.  Sadly, I've fallen behind on her Whispering Mountain series.  I must catch up!  Wild Texas Rose, book six in the series, is set for release on August 7, 2012.

Beauty and the Bounty Hunter

Cathleen Chase is no killer—but as Cat O’Banyon, she is a ruthless bounty hunter who always gets her man. Catching one lowlife after another, she continues her search for the only man she really cares to locate: the one whose voice she will never forget; the man who murdered her husband. She'll stop at nothing to find him.

Con artist Alexi Romanov taught Cat every trick she knows. He is a master of deceit, of disguise and of desire. He’s difficult to trust, and even more difficult to resist, but he has news she can’t ignore. The man she’s after has placed a bounty on her head. To get him before he gets her, she’ll have to team up with Alexi again. And just like before, the two of them together are nothing but trouble.

The name Lori Austin may not sound familiar but you might know this author under the name of Lori Handeland, author of the popular paranormal Nightcreatures series.  Handeland also wrote a number of Harlequin romances as well as her contributions to the Rock Creek Six series with author Linda Devlin aka Linda Winstead Jones.  I know I'm looking forward to reading about a female bounty hunter!  Beauty and the Bounty Hunter goes on sale October 2.

Undeniable  

THE DALTON BOYS ARE COMING, ONE BY ONE…

There was a time when Crow Hill, Texas’s notorious Dalton Gang ran wild. Now, as owners of the Dalton Ranch, their partnership in the rundown operation leaves little time for raising hell—except for the right women who can turn on the heat…

It’s been sixteen years since Dax Campbell set foot in Crow Hill—and sixteen years since Arwen Poole had a crush on him in high school. Unfortunately, setting her sights on this irresistible man again has stirred up a lot of unfulfilled desires in Arwen. A few nights in bed with Dax should get him out of her system once and for all. That’s all she wants. And for now, that’s all she needs.

But Dax is looking for something deeper in a woman. So they agree to an unconventional affair: for every no-strings sexual encounter Arwen craves, Dax gets to take her out for a night of romance. While both manage to hold up their end of the bargain, they’re growing closer than either of them can afford. Because Dax has a family secret that could drive him out of Crow Hill for good, and Arwen’s not letting him go without a fight…

 
Alison Kent writes hot and steamy romances and when you add in a sexy cowboy, I'm there!  Undeniable is the first in a new series being published under the Berkley Heat line so you can expect it to be smoking hot! Undeniable will be on sale October 2,

These are just a few of the upcoming full-length western releases.  Which ones are you looking forward to?

Audio Review: Celebrity In Death

Celebrity in Death
J. D. Robb
Mystery/Suspense
In Death/book 34
Putnam/February 21, 2012

*SPOILERS FOR PREVIOUS BOOKS*

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is no party girl, but she's managing to have a reasonably good time at the celebrity-packed bash celebrating The Icove Agenda, a film based on one of her famous cases. It's a little spooky seeing the actress playing her, who looks almost like her long-lost twin. Not as unsettling, though, as seeing the actress who plays Peabody drowned in the lap pool on the roof of the director's luxury building.

Talented but rude, and widely disliked, K. T. Harris had made an embarrassing scene during dinner. Now she's at the center of a crime scene?and Eve is more than ready to get out of her high heels and strap on her holster, to step into the role she was born to play: cop.

An odd thing happened when I got the hardcover edition from the library a couple of months ago.  I couldn't read it.  You see, I have listened to almost all of the In Death books.  I have read a few but when I first started the series it already had well over 20+ books.  After reading the first few books I realized the only way I had any chance of catching up was listening to the audiobooks, which it turns out I loved.  Susan Erickson is the narrator and as I have mentioned before, she does an amazing job of capturing the different character voices.   So while this book was released months ago, it has taken me and the library a while to get the audiobook but once I did I was reluctant to stop.  


It's like seeing double.  That's what happens when Hollywood takes over New York City and Lt. Eve Dallas' turf.   Eve isn't happy about the media attention and a little freaked at seeing her "twin".  Peabody, as you can imagine, thinks the whole thing is mag.  I love seeing the two diverse reactions to people and events these partners have.   And when Peabody gets a little walk-on part in the movie, look out!  She's over the moon excited and Dallas can't help but roll her eyes but you know deep inside she's happy for Peabody. 

Is it fair to say the series has become a little formulaic?  To a certain degree, yes.  We know Dallas and Peabody will catch a case.  We know there most likely will be some danger involved for one or both of them.  We know Roarke will take time away from his empire to play his role of Expert, civilian.  We know Dallas will give Summerset hell just for the fun of it.  We know the well developed secondary characters will make their contribution.  And we know the candy thief will continue to evade Dallas' traps.  The main reason I continue reading this series is for the characters.  I have come to love them, respect many and just enjoy the heck out of them.   The murder and suspense surrounding the solving of the case(s) is secondary to the enjoyment of catching up with characters who feel like old friends.  So maybe that's why I have come to expect less of the mystery aspect of the series.  This time. I was pleasantly surprised. 

The death of Peabody's look-a-like is not take as hard as you might think.  Sad to say, the actress playing Peabody was not well liked.  It is taken serious by Dallas and Peabody who are, a little freaked when they see what at first looks like dead Peabody.  McNab's reaction is very emotional and Robb does well bringing those emotions through on the page.  Dallas, as always, stands for the victim regardless of whether she actually liked the victim.   The road to finding the murder was interesting and surprising.  Interesting in that I didn't catch on to the who as quickly as usual.  Surprising in the backstory of the killer.  Robb continues to keep the killers in this series from falling into the typical murderer mold. 

I said I read this series first for the characters and that is very true when it comes to my favorite secondary character Detective Delia Peabody.  I am loving the way Peabody and her cohab Detective Ian McNab's relationship is evolving.  Their relationship fits the time period where humans are living a lot longer and therefore have no need to rush into the traditional path of marriage, babies etc. but can adjust to their roles as a couple.  On the surface they seem like such an odd pair, Peabody with her Free-ager upbringing and beliefs and McNab with his outrageous fashion sense and "hey dude" attitude.  But these two can be serious and know when to put their cop faces on.  I love when they put their cop faces on!

Celebrity in Death does focus on the procedural and solving of the murder but it also has much focus on those evolving relationships that I love so much.  Some of the dialog does become repetitive between Dallas and Roarke, same arguments but we do see a little shift as Dallas acknowledges she can't continue to use Roarke as her go-to guy when she wants something done quickly.  She has the NYPSD at her disposal and must go to them first, even if they take longer for results. 

All in all this is another compelling addition to the series.  The smart characters, witty dialogue and extensively developed characters and relationships are the strengths of this incredible series. 

Rating: B+

Independence Day

Happy Independence Day 

Thank you to all who keep us safe.  

Far or near, you are not forgotten.

Review: Amazon Lily

Amazon Lily
Theresa Weir (Anne Fraiser)
Contemporary Romance
Pocket Books/October 1, 1988

AS PURE AS A VIRGIN FOREST

She was white gloves and ice cream socials, a nice midwestern girl who'd come to the Amazon on a mission to aid the native Indians. Then Corey McKinney found herself alone in the thick, steamy jungle with a ruggedly handsome bush pilot who dared her to deny what they both knew: she wanted him.

AS DANGEROUS AS A JUNGLE CAT

He was rotgut whiskey and barroom brawls, a street-hardened adventure-seeker who had no time for women with lofty intentions. But Asher Adams was instantly captivated by his passenger's delicate beauty and feisty spirit, and he found himself caring when it was the last thing he wanted to do.

In a jungle teeming with perils, they must band together as they face the most thrilling adventure of their lives --- one that will bring a passion that burns hotter than the South American sun and a love as fiercely beautiful as the ... AMAZON LILY

This was a Kindle freebie not too long ago and while I had hear good things about Weir's writing, I had not read anything by her.  Considering this was written over 20 years ago, it held up well.  The setting, primarily the Amazon jungle, helped in keeping any dated references to a minimum.

I don't think anything can prepare you for the Amazon.  Pictures can give you some idea of what it is like but the vastness is something you have to experience to truly understand how remote and extensive it is.  For Corey McKinney this is the trip of a lifetime that gets off to a rocky start.  Her pilot is an obnoxious ass who makes it clear he thinks she's too frail for the dangers of the jungle.  Corey is usually a calm, thoughtful woman who doesn't let much get to her.  Asher Adams gets to her.  From their first meeting I liked seeing how Corey would react to Ash's remarks, attitude and just down right grumpiness.  They are opposites but in this case opposites eventually attract, after they get past her primness and his less than civilized ways.

Asher Adams is my kind of hero!  He's a man's man, rough around the edges with simple needs.  The reason he's my kind of hero is that there is so much more to him than meets the eye.  He may not give a damn about what many think are important like nice homes and fancy cars but he does care about the people who need him to the point of making it the focus of his life.   Then his Amazon Lily aka Corey comes along and stirs up his life, making him see things from a different perspective.

Weir is able to make the Amazon jungle come alive in all it's beauty and hostility.  I really liked how the setting promoted the romance as well as the character development.  Ash and Corey are faced with some stressful and dangerous situations they would not find back in the states.  It is the jungle that helps break down the barriers and helps show they what is important in life and how short that life can be.

If I had any problems with the story it is the pacing. It is a very slow pace with Ash, and Corey in particular, having far too many self reflective moments.  While these helped in understanding their motives, they tended to become repetitive.  The ending is not much of a surprise and I was happy to see Ash had not lost his assitude - still the same smart ass but now with an added respect for his Amazon Lily. 

Rating: B

ARC Review: Can't Buy Me Love

Can't Buy Me Love
Molly O'Keefe
Contemporary Romance
Crooked Creek Series/Book 1
Bantam/June 26, 2012

A girl from the wrong side of the tracks, Tara Jean Sweet knows that opportunity will never knock. She'll have to seize it. Elderly Texas rancher Lyle Baker has a dying request: He will give Tara Jean a stake in his leather business in exchange for a little family subterfuge. All Tara Jean has to do is play the part of a gold-digging fiancée to lure his estranged children home. And the mission is soon accomplished.

Now, Lyle's gone—and his ridiculously handsome son, Luc, an ice hockey superstar sidelined by injuries, is the new owner of Crooked Creek ranch. He's also Tara Jean's boss. But being so close to sinfully sweet Tara Jean does crazy things to his priorities. Like make him want to kiss her deepest secrets from those irresistible lips. But when Tara Jean's past demands a dirty showdown, will Luc stay and fight?

The setup for Can't Buy Me Love made me think of something J. R. Ewing would pull.  The way it's execute is a little bit different but no real surprises.  It was pretty obvious early on what would happen and while part of that is to be expected, a couple of surprises would have been nice.

Luc Baker is facing the ending of his career, he just doesn't want to acknowledge it.  With a serious head injury and the potential for it to become even more serious if he continues to skate, Luc needs to face reality.  Then his father is back in Luc's life after years of estrangement.  It's a messy, angry reunion that Luc is forced into.  His only real family loyalty is to his mother, sister and nephew.   Throw in a gold-digger with big boobs and short skirts and Luc is ready to leave this nightmare of a family reunion.  I did like Luc but found his stubbornness regarding his injury juvenile.  He's thirty-seven and he says hockey is his life, his doctor is telling he may not have a life if he continues to play hockey.  He's not even suppose to train but he does that anyway.  It's hard to respect a man who has so little respect for himself and his body.  Wow, that sounds very judgmental but it's what came across to me.  

Tara Jean, oh boy did we have some issues.  She's not only from the wrong side of the tracks but from the wrong side of the law.  She is trying to be good and has been working (legally) very hard for a number of years.  But as the blurb says, her pasts comes back to haunt her in a big, nasty way.  I did respect her wanting to better herself.  The issue I had with her was her continued respect and to a certain extent,  defense of Lyle Baker.  The guy was a complete asshat of a father to his kids.  Just because Tara Jean believes he treated her well, he used her, doesn't erase the years of abuse he inflicted on his children.  The other thing about Tara Jean is I never felt I really got to know her.  She kept switching who she was to the point where Luc even said every time he turned around he didn't know who he was going to get.  I didn't either. 

Victoria is Luc's sister and Lyle's daughter and only feels she has value as a wife.  She's going through a rough time but I had very little sympathy for her due to her continued poor me attitude and not learning from her recent and very big mistake of trusting the wrong person, her deceased husband.  Instead of learning and focusing on her son, she decides she needs a man and trusts a guy she knows little about.  I did like her son Jacob.  The kid was cute and brought out some good in Victoria.

Tara Jean and Luc's romance definitely had some steam.  They did get to know each other very well with their clothes off.  It was with them on that needed the work.  I do think Luc brought more to the relationship after he changed his opinion of Tara Jean.  At first he was very attracted to the big boobs and short skirts, which pissed him off and I found amusing.  Then once he became to understand her situation he was far more forgiving of Tara Jean than she was of herself. 

I wish this romance had been able to work it's magic on me.  I could have done with Luc working through his retirement from hockey rather than fighting it.  And Tara Jean's "demon voice", as she called the voice inside her head which she had conversations with, I could have done without.  I think for now I stick with Ms. O'Keefe's Harlequin romances. 

Rating: C

Crooked Creek Series ~

Can't Buy Me Love
Can't Hurry Love (July 31, 2012)

ARC Review: Thief of Shadows

Thief of Shadows
Elizabeth Hoyt
Historical Romance
Maiden Lane Series/Book 4
London/1738
Grand Central Publishing/June 26, 2012

*SPOILERS FOR PREVIOUS BOOKS*

A MASKED MAN . . .
Winter Makepeace lives a double life. By day he’s the stoic headmaster of a home for foundling children. But the night brings out a darker side of Winter. As the moon rises, so does the Ghost of St. Giles—protector, judge, fugitive. When the Ghost, beaten and wounded, is rescued by a beautiful aristocrat, Winter has no idea that his two worlds are about to collide.

A DANGEROUS WOMAN . . .
Lady Isabel Beckinhall enjoys nothing more than a challenge. Yet when she’s asked to tutor the Home’s dour manager in the ways of society—flirtation, double entendres, and scandalous liaisons—Isabel can’t help wondering why his eyes seem so familiar—and his lips so tempting.

A PASSION NEITHER COULD DENY
During the day Isabel and Winter engage in a battle of wills. At night their passions are revealed . . . But when little girls start disappearing from St. Giles, Winter must avenge them. For that he might have to sacrifice everything—the Home, Isabel . . . and his life.

Absolutely Love This Series!  There, had to get that out.  Now on to the much anticipated story of Winter Makepeace and the woman who captured his heart.  Once again Elizabeth Hoyt has woven a beautifully written, suspenseful romance that brings the reader into the world of the dark and dangerous St. Giles district of 1730's London.

We first met Winter Makepeace at the beginning of the series in Wicked Intentions.  Ever since then I've been curious about this quiet, intellectual man.  He is very proper, coming off a little too stiff even for this time period.  We finally get to really know Winter and I couldn't be happier!  He is an alpha hero in beta clothing.  Winter cares deeply for the Home for Unfortunate Infants and Foundling Children.  It's not just a family obligation but very dear to his heart.  I loved seeing him with the children, his patience and love for them show what a fascinating man he is.

Lady Isabel Beckinhall has made previous appearances in the series but little is know about her. She's a proper lady who tends to hide her quick wit behind her manners.  I simply adored Isabel with her intelligence and need to love and be loved.  She seems to have it all for a woman of her time period, independence and wealth but she doesn't have what she needs.  I loved Isabel's bravery and her ability to take control of a situation.  She's a bit older than Winter, six years, and more experienced.  It was a pleasant surprised to have the tables turned. 

The mystery of young orphan girls disappearing in and around St. Giles is the focus of Winter's night time ventures.  He is obsessed with not only protecting his children at the orphanage but the other children of St. Giles.  Winter has such an overwhelming desire to care for and protect it was nice to see someone take care of him when Isabel came into his life.

I found Winter and Isabel's romance charming in how Isabel was the aggressor with Winter attempting to maintain some distance.  He is very good with the word play but Isabel is certainly intelligent and able to keep up.  Their dialogue is a lovely prelude to their more intimate moments. 

There are a number of secondary characters who play into Winter and Isabel's developing relationship, all associated in one way or another to the home. I love this sense of connection the characters have, whether they be a house maid or a titled lady.  Hoyt shows how each character views the home, the Ghost and the place each of them have in society.  It's a very enlightening look at the society of the day. 

One thing I got a thrill out of was the swordplay scenes.  They were exciting and so very well written.  Hoyt makes the reader feel as if you are right there, front row to the action.  This series continues to surprise me.  Just when I think Hoyt can't top her previous book, she gives us a different type of hero who is as complex and captivating as previous heroes.  Add in the strong, intelligent heroines and you have a lovely historical romance series worth reading. 

Rating:  A

Maiden Lane Series ~

Wicked Intentions
Notorious Pleasures
Scandalous Desires
Thief of Shadows
Lord of Darkness (February 26, 2013)
Duke of Midnight (2013)

ARC Review: At Last

At Last
Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance
Lucky Harbor/Book 5
Grand Central Publishing/June 26, 2012

HER LOVE HAS COME ALONG . . .

Amy Michaels loves her new life in Lucky Harbor. A waitress in the local diner, she's looking forward to her first weekend hike through the mountains. But when a wrong turn takes her off the trail, she finds herself up close and personal with forest ranger Matt Bowers. And even though she's tempted to kiss that sexy smile right off his face, she won't make the mistake of getting involved with the town heartthrob.

A former cop whose life went south, Matt doesn't let anyone get too close. But something about the feisty beauty caught his eye the moment he first saw her in the diner. After a hot night under a starry sky, Matt can't deny their attraction-or the fact that for the first time in a long time, he feels the stirrings of something more. Now it's up to Matt to help Amy see that, no matter what is in their past, together they can build a future in Lucky Harbor.

The Lucky Harbor series is one of my favorite contemporary series and to have three, back to back releases just thrills me!  At Last is the second release this year and another stunning entry for the series about women with issues, men with issues, women who love chocolate and men who love women who love chocolate.  The trademark Shalvis humor is very much present and so appreciated.  Shalvis has a way of balancing the serious with the humorous and not letting the story get too dark but still giving readers something to think about.  

I've been so curious about what has been going on between Amy and Matt.  There is a tension when they're both in the same room.  It's not a bad tension but more of a "I want you but I must resist" impression from Amy and Matt... well, Matt's a guy so he just plain wants her, no attempts to resist on his part.   Which only makes Amy more tense.  It's a vicious cycle and something has to give. 

Amy Michaels' fresh start in Lucky Harbor is going well.  She has a job she enjoys and has made some good friends.  She also has the serious hots for Ranger Bowers but refuses to act on those feelings.  Amy has this tough girl exterior covering a heart of gold.  I found her very relatable even though it takes a while to truly get to know her and her secrets. I really enjoyed reading about Amy's quest to find her family history in Lucky Harbor.  Learning about that history with Amy made all her actions and emotions connect, giving her character even more depth. 

Ranger Matt Bowers aka Ranger Hot Buns is definitely an outdoorsman.  His job keeps him on the move throughout the mountains and hiking trails near Lucky Harbor. He has this touch of wildness about hims that I found very sexy!  He such a guy, thinking Amy just wants a sex only, no strings relationship.  Come on Matt, you know she wants more and so do you!  Matt also has a few skeletons in his closet he eventually brings out.  It was nice to see he wasn't this perfect guy with no baggage.  Everyone has baggage but Matt prefers to keep his in the past.

The romance of Amy and Matt is so sweet and sexy.  They have this wonderful smart-ass banter that I love!  The chemistry is there in spades with both Amy and Matt very aware of it.  The way they dance around it is fun to watch and makes the reader want to know more about these characters that we've come to care about.  I think that's one of Shalvis' strengths as a writer - she makes the reader care about her characters.  We want them to not only get the guy or girl but be happy beyond the hot sex.  

The town's Facebook page is alive and well.  It's becoming a character in the series, a very nosy, amusing character.   I love the small town feel Lucky Harbor has and while it can feel intrusive like a interfering family member, it's also funny and shows the depth of caring the residents have for their town and it's inhabitants. 

The women in this series are not the only ones with strong friendships.  The men have built that camaraderie too, but in the way guys do through manly physical endeavors.  They tease and joke around but also listen and give advice, not always the best advice but they do try.  It's an interesting look at the male relationship that goes past the stereo typical sitting around, drinking beer and watching the game.

I love the direction Shalvis has taken this series, encompass the different people and places of the town.  It gives the town a complete feeling, getting to know the people who are at the heart of it. If you're looking for a smart, funny, sexy contemporary romance series, look no further.  Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series is it!

Rating: A-

Lucky Harbor Series ~ 

Simply Irresistible 
The Sweetest Thing
Kissing Santa Claus novella in the anthology Small Town Christmas
Head Over Heels
Lucky in Love
At Last 
Forever and a Day (July 31, 2012) 

Review: The Duke's Perfect Wife

The Duke's Perfect Wife
Jennifer Ashley
Historical Romance/London/1884
Highland Pleasures/Book 4
Berkley Sensations/April 3, 2012

Lady Eleanor Ramsay is the only one who knows the truth about Hart Mackenzie. Once his fiancee, she is the sole woman to whom he could ever pour out his heart.

Hart has it all--a dukedom, wealth, power, influence, whatever he desires. Every woman wants him--his seductive skills are legendary. But Hart has sacrificed much to keep his brothers safe, first from their brutal father, and then from the world. He's also suffered loss--his wife, his infant son, and the woman he loved with all his heart though he realized it too late.

Now, Eleanor has reappeared on Hart's doorstep, with scandalous nude photographs of Hart taken long ago. Intrigued by the challenge in her blue eyes--and aroused by her charming, no-nonsense determination--Hart wonders if his young love has come to ruin him . . . or save him.

After reading and love The Many Sins of Lord Cameron, I immediately started on the next book in the series, The Duke's Perfect Wife.  While I didn't find the Duke's Wife to be as perfect as those sins of Lord Cameron, I did enjoy it and can't wait for the fall release of the next book in the series.

If we go back to the first book, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, Hart Mackenzie was a cold, calculating duke who rarely invoked any warmth or compassion the way his brothers do.  Hart still maintains those characteristics through most of his story, giving way to some warmth and tenderness to those who matter most to him.  The catalyst for Hart is Eleanor and to a lesser extent, Hart's family.  It was a pleasure to see Hart make the small changes and then turn them into something much bigger and far more important.  And each step of the way, Eleanor was never far from his thoughts.

Eleanor Ramsay has been living a quiet but poor life in her family home, far away from London.  She takes care of her brilliant if absent-minded father and seems content. Her contentment is not deep but more from acceptance of fate.  Her fate to live alone without the man she loves.  I did like Eleanor and her resolution to help Hart however she could but still maintain her distance from Hart.  The pull is too great and Eleanor is still very much in love with him.  I loved how Eleanor battled with Hart, circumventing his orders and doing what she thinks is best for Hart.

The romance of Hart and Eleanor burns hot and fierce.  The feelings are still there as strong as ever but also more mature, with Eleanor having an unconventional upbringing to the point of her speaking openly and curiously about sex.  I loved how she could shock Hart, who is well versed in women and sex.  Even with Hart's vast experience, Eleanor needs to put him at ease, and she does.  She has this incredible power over Hart but she doesn't abuse it.  

The story wouldn't be the same without the Mackenzie clan making not only an appearance but getting right into the thick of it with Hart and Eleanor.  I love how this family argues, aggravates and annoys each other.  The love of this family is there throughout the story even with the arguments.  The clan is the heart of the series, enhancing the romances.

The political drama surrounding Hart's bid for prime minister is interesting but sometimes it felt intrusive in the developing relationship of Hart and Eleanor.  The politics and power are what drive Hart so it did play a very important role in Hart's life but I could have done with a little less of it.

The Duke's Perfect Wife had a few minor imperfections but aside from those, it was a pleasure to read!

Rating:  B+

Highland Pleasures Series ~

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron
The Duke's Perfect Wife
The Seductions of Elliott McBride (December 2012)
The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie (2013)