Kristen Ashley has without a doubt earned the best/most of everything for 2012 (addictive stories, unforgettable...more5 stars – Contemporary Erotic Romance
Kristen Ashley has without a doubt earned the best/most of everything for 2012 (addictive stories, unforgettable heroes, and moving epilogues) and is easily one of my all-time favorite authors. Her books completely beguile me every single time and this was certainly no exception. Never mind that I had boxes to unpack or a gazillion other things to do because Creed simply demanded my full attention...and boy howdy, he got it! I simply couldn’t put it down!
This actually started off a little bit rocky and I wasn’t quite sure what to think. But then around the 28% mark, everything started falling into place and I ended up loving it! Creed and Sylvie are both broken and battered with horribly tragic pasts, but they find healing and forgiveness through their resilient, enduring, and unconquerable love for each other. They’re memorable, unique characters, and I adored them together.
I loved Knight and Creed, and it’s hard to decide which I liked better. Both have compelling, strong, albeit very distinctive, heroes, and although related, they’re still very different books; so it’s probably best not to compare the two. Having said that, this definitely left me more emotionally satisfied than Knight, probably because there’s a definitive, more traditional, hard-won HEA.
Bottom line, Kristen Ashley is an author goddess and she’s once again made me a very happy romance reader! Big 5 stars!
The epilogue...of course. KA is the queen of heartwarming, mushy, gushy, and can’t-get-enough-of-it epilogues, and Creed left me smiling and wiping away tears.
Minor criticisms:
Creed naming his kids (view spoiler)[with another woman the same names that he and Sylvie had planned on (hide spoiler)] made my heart break. Talk about a hot poker to the chest! His reasoning was awful, twisted, beautiful, and tragic, and although things eventually worked out, it was still hard to take.
After waiting so long for the flashback scene to reveal the moment that Sylvie (view spoiler)[finally lost her virginity to Creed (hide spoiler)], I was very disappointed that it faded to black.
I think it’s a bit misleading that this series falls in the Unfinished Hero series that’s described as erotic romances with anti-heroes because Creed is without a doubt an honorable man and a full-fledged hero, and it’s really not all that erotic.
I’ve been looking forward to Mike’s story and anxious for his HEA ever since he stole my heart when I read At Peace. G...more5+ stars – Contemporary Romance
I’ve been looking forward to Mike’s story and anxious for his HEA ever since he stole my heart when I read At Peace. Games of the Heart lived up to my high expectations and then some. It’s one of my (many) favorite Kristen Ashley reads. I loved it! I adored everything about it...the amazing hero and heroine, touching young love secondary romance, great ensemble cast of characters, emotional story, and gratifying epilogue.
Mike is such a swoon-worthy hero...he’s a caring, dedicated, and protective father and cop, a tough alpha male, and a commanding bad boy in the bedroom. Dusty is the perfect heroine...genuine, loving, strong, earthy, spirited, funny, and loyal. Mike and Dusty make a wonderful, solid couple, and their romance is compelling and heartfelt. But they nearly have the spotlight stolen by the beautiful, sweet teen romance between Dusty’s nephew, Finley “Fin”, and Mike’s daughter, Clarisse “Rees/Reesee”. There just aren’t enough words to describe how much I adored Fin. *sigh* He’s a far better man at seventeen than most could ever hope to be. Not to mention an unforgettable romantic hero in his own right.
So on that note, I’m finishing my review with a picture tribute to Fin. I love Garrett Hedlund and he’d make a yummy (older) Fin, but age wise I think Alex Pettyfer is a fitting casting choice.
Younger Alex Pettyfer as 17-year-old teen heartthrob Fin.
Alex Pettyfer as Fin seven years later when he’s finally about to (view spoiler)[marry his longtime sweetheart and true love Reesee in the epilogue. (hide spoiler)]
Garrett Hedlund is a great alternate for 24-year-old Fin.
A bunch of my fellow romance lovin’ Goodreads friends have been reading and raving about Kristen Ashley, and with great...more5+ stars – Contemporary Romance
A bunch of my fellow romance lovin’ Goodreads friends have been reading and raving about Kristen Ashley, and with great reason. Lady Luck is the third book in the Colorado Mountain series, and after reading it, I’m now 3 for 3 with her books being big 5 star winners that I loved.
There’s just something about her stories that grab me right from the beginning and never let go. I especially love how the details, descriptions, and conversations depict such vivid images of the characters and scenes so that it feels like you’re watching a movie in your mind. It’s true that the editing could use improvement and there’s perhaps too much elucidation of inane minutiae, like clothes, jewelry, outfits, rooms, furniture, and common “stuff”. But overall Ashley’s unique writing style and genuine, engaging dialogue bring the story and cast to life. Her books are unusually lengthy and take me longer to read than other authors/books, but then astonishingly when they’re over, I’m sad and still want more. Fortunately, she also gives her readers superb epilogues that more than satisfy.
I absolutely adored Lexie, but I didn’t warm up to Ty quite as easily. I felt bad for him and all that he endured, and his anger, cynical mistrust of women, and desire for vengeance were more than justified. Even so, Ty’s cruel treatment of Lexie in a couple of momentous, heartbreakingly intense scenes really pissed me off. I cried like a baby and felt nearly as emotionally flayed and raw afterward as she did. Lexie’s such an incredibly sweet, loyal, giving, and loving heroine, and I wasn’t sure he’d be able to win me back after he’d hurt her so terribly and unforgivably. Amazingly he did, and with icing and a cherry on top. It certainly didn’t hurt that he’s a smokin’ hot, tortured, badass alpha, which I can never resist.
Crude language doesn’t bother me, but there’s a lot of fuckin’, pussy, and bitch talk in this that got somewhat grating at times. Also, I didn’t really care for Ty’s nickname “mama” for Lexie initially, but it grew on me after a while.
My summary of the Colorado Mountain series so far: Favorite hero: Max from The Gamble Favorite heroine: Lexie from Lady Luck Favorite overall story/book: Sweet Dreams And I can’t wait for Chace and Faye’s story!
I’m glad she’s got an extensive backlist and more book releases coming because I definitely want to read more by this author! Big 5 stars!
I envisioned hunkalicious Boris Kodjoe as Ty. He doesn’t have enough tats, but I’ve got a great imagination and could mentally tat him up.
I imagined Jennifer Garner or Rachel Weisz as Lexie. I think either of them could play her with the perfect mix of sweet, goof, and sass.
It’s hard to deny the talent and mass appeal of Nora Roberts considering The Witness is her 200th book...more5 stars – Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense
It’s hard to deny the talent and mass appeal of Nora Roberts considering The Witness is her 200th book. I mean...wow! That is quite an impressive achievement and a boon for romance readers. I consider myself a fan of hers, and I especially loved her Bride Quartet series and the few J.D. Robb In Death books that I’ve read. Some of her books tend to be a little bit too generic and plain vanilla for my taste, but I occasionally enjoy their comfort like good old vanilla ice cream, even if it doesn’t make them all that memorable.
The Witness is one of the better NR books that I’ve read. It’s a great contemporary suspense with satisfying romance between an extraordinary heroine and a protective cop hero. Often I find that my reading enjoyment tends to hinge on my feelings about the hero, but this time it was primarily the unique, unforgettable heroine who made me like the book so much.
I loved the heroine, Elizabeth/Liz, right from the start and my heart ached for her. It’s told in four parts/acts with the first involving her as a sixteen-year-old girl, and the ending of the first act (page 100 in the Hardcover edition) was intense, pulse-pounding, and emotionally distressing. I admired the strong, formidable, self-reliant woman she became. Abigail is a kick-ass survivor in hiding with so many interesting, veiled layers, and it’s impossible not to like her, especially when her social awkwardness and gruff loner persona make her unintentionally funny and glimpses of that vulnerable girl yearning for affection and normalcy are revealed. (view spoiler)[The part where she methodically researched proper etiquette and social customs of a barbecue on the Internet just to prepare for a casual gathering with Brooks’s family cracked me up. Yet it was also a bit heartbreaking when she became so easily discomfited by routine social graces and niceties. (hide spoiler)]
Police Chief Brooks Gleason is a great hero, and he’s pushy and unyielding in his pursuit of Abigail yet remarkably patient and understanding of her as well. And I couldn’t possibly forget to mention Abigail’s loyal friend and guard dog, Bert, since their relationship adds so much to the story. Bert definitely deserves top dog honors for favorite animal companion.
My one complaint is that I wanted more from the epilogue, but otherwise I really enjoyed this. So kudos to Ms. Roberts for her notable 200th release! 5 stars!
Wow! What can I possibly say about this one to convey how absolutely wonderful it is? Talk about a charming, wicke...more5 stars – Historical/Regency Romance
Wow! What can I possibly say about this one to convey how absolutely wonderful it is? Talk about a charming, wickedly splendid read and a smashing good time! A Week to Be Wicked is one of the most engaging, refreshing, witty, banterific, and all around pleasing historical romances that I’ve read in quite a while and definitely so far this year.
Colin is a handsome, flirtatious, affable, generous, funny, sweet, and utterly lovable scoundrel whose tormented past and insecurity make you want to hold him tight, heal his wounded soul, and never let go. And spunky, awkward, bespectacled, bluestocking, spinster geologist Minerva, who prefers spending her time unearthing rare rocks and minerals and making scientific discoveries to people, might appear his polar opposite, but together they prove that magnets indeed attract.
Colin, with his good-natured, roguish charm, endearing wit, and underlying tortured soul, reminded me of one of my favorite romantic heroes, Leo Hathaway, Lord Ramsay from Lisa Kleypas’s masterful Married By Morning, and that’s high praise indeed!
It’s a highly enjoyable, gratifying read for historical romance fans! Big 5 stars!
One of my favorite scenes/passages:
(view spoiler)[A hint of sensual frustration roughened his voice. “And I will curse the gods along with them, Min. Some wild monsoon raged through me as I looked at you just now. It’s left me rearranged inside, and I don’t have a map.”
“I will insist you be man enough to take it. I won’t have you making light of my feelings, or making light of yourself—as if you’re not worthy of them. Because you are worthy, Colin. You’re a generous, good-hearted person, and you deserve to be loved. Deeply, truly, well, and often.”
He looked utterly bewildered. Well, what did he expect, after the power he’d given her? He couldn’t compare a woman to a torrentially beautiful monsoon, and then look surprised that he’d gotten wet. “You reckless man.” She laid a touch to his cheek. “You really should be more careful with those compliments.”(hide spoiler)]
I’m a huge MacKinnon’s Rangers fan, and I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of...more5++ stars – Colonial American/Frontier/Highlander Historical Romance
I’m a huge MacKinnon’s Rangers fan, and I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of Defiant ever since I squealed like a fangirl when I heard Connor would be getting his own book. I swooned hard and irrevocably for his brothers, Iain in Surrender and Morgan in Untamed, two of my all-time favorite romance keepers and heroes, and it seemed only fitting that brooding, enigmatic youngest brother, Connor, should get his own HEA. And after nearly two years of anticipation since I read the first two books in 2010, I’m happy to say that the brilliant and incomparable Pamela Clare not only exceeded my super high expectations but blew this right into the stratosphere! Brava!
I feel frustrated and inadequate writing this review because there just aren’t sufficient words to convey how much I loved this. It’s complexly A+mazing, powerful, emotive, thrilling, sensual, and heartrending with an unforgettable hero and heroine whose journey will leave you breathless, speechless, and deeply inspired. It’s the epitome of what I love about romance and a story of substance that I’d recommend for all those book snobs out there who look down their nose at romance authors and readers.
Defiant is a truly astounding, utterly enthralling, and beautifully moving read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished. Having read roughly 1,300 romances, Pamela Clare’s MacKinnon’s Rangers still holds a place of honor on my treasured keeper shelf. Huge 5++ stars!
On a side note, Pamela Clare is not only a superb author goddess, but also an amazing person who genuinely cares about humanity and her fans. And I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude for that. So, thank you, Pamela, for giving so generously and joyously of your talent, dedication, and friendship.
I highly recommend checking out the live action trailer for Defiant for visual inspiration.
Addendum: I’m beyond excited that Joseph will be getting his own book! YAY! *happy dance and fangirl squeal*
MacKinnon’s Rangers is one of my top, all-time favorite romance series and the MacKinnon brothers (Iain, Morgan, and Connor) are some of the best, most swoonalicious heroes in all of Romancelandia!!!!
Books like this lovely, heartwarming gem make me grateful for Goodreads, which has enabled me to make such great...more5+ stars – Historical/Regency Romance
Books like this lovely, heartwarming gem make me grateful for Goodreads, which has enabled me to make such great friends who share my passion for romance and happily ever afters and to discover so many wonderful new-to-me authors.
Nearly a Lady is such a delightful, beautiful, emotional, sweet story that’s all the more powerful because of its quiet, honest simplicity and endearing characters who steal your heart. The genuine friendship and tender, gradual romance between generous, guarded, tortured war veteran hero Gideon and quirky, iron-willed, compassionate country maiden Winnefred is one of the most engaging and touching I’ve read in a while.
Winnefred, who’d much prefer strolling in the countryside with her beloved pet goat Claire than promenading in crowded ballrooms of the ton, is a plucky, funny, utterly lovable, and unforgettable heroine. And she and her reluctant protector and hero, Gideon, are absolutely enchanting together and perfect for each other in every way. Their relationship reminded me a little of Beatrix and Christopher from Lisa Kleypas’s Love in the Afternoon...both feature a spirited, eccentric, nature-and-animal-loving heroine and PTSD-suffering war veteran hero...but Nearly a Lady has a charming splendor all its own.
The secondary romance between Winnefred’s best friend Lilly and Gideon’s brother Lucien was yummy icing on the already delicious cake, and even though I was somewhat surprised and a tad disappointed that it was wrapped up in this, it was still a nice addition to the story.
This is a truly remarkable reminder of how sometimes the simplest stories can be the most affecting and of why I love romance and HEAs so much. 5 sweetly satisfied stars!
Favorite passages:
Gideon’s appraisal of Winnefred’s unique charms:
He didn’t want another man seeing—really seeing—Winnefred.
Whether she was in a complicated ball gown or a simple dress, he was the only man who truly saw her. He knew that beneath the fragile silk was the steel spine of a woman who’d confronted a thief in her stable and beaten him to the ground. He knew that behind the soft smile was the unconquerable will that had kept two women alive on five pounds a year. Well-rehearsed manners hid a brash tongue, and the excuse of a headache would keep quiet the fact she was graceless as a lumbering army. Only he knew the simple, wild beauty of her. It was a treasure he wanted to hoard. She was a secret he wanted to keep all to himself.
He was being unreasonable and he knew it. But even as he berated himself for being a dog in the manger, he scowled as Winnefred laughed at something Gratley said. And he wasn’t sure if it was better or worse when Gratley laughed at something Winnefred said in return. He only knew he didn’t like it.
“Do you want to be?” “In love with you?” He straightened, took a chance, and reached for her hand. The flame grew a little brighter when she didn’t pull away. “Yes. It terrifies me. The idea of children terrifies me. The thought that something might happen to you, that I might let something happen to you, absolutely terrifies me, and always will.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “I wouldn’t be rid of that fear for any price. Because to lose it would be to lose you, and the possibility of our children. I . . . I want it—you and children and every moment of fear and happiness that comes with being in love. I want it. All of it.”
*This review is only for Jeaniene Frost’s Home for the Holidays.*
A great Night Huntress holiday story that provided a ve...more4 ½ stars – Paranormal Romance
*This review is only for Jeaniene Frost’s Home for the Holidays.*
A great Night Huntress holiday story that provided a very satisfying Cat and Bones fix! And don’t miss the teaser for Vlad and Leila’s story, Once Burned, at the end of the book!(less)
What a wonderful, charming, sexy, entertaining, sweet, funny, emotional, steamy, and well-written regency romance with an...more5+ stars – Historical Romance
What a wonderful, charming, sexy, entertaining, sweet, funny, emotional, steamy, and well-written regency romance with an utterly lovable, quirky, plump, Plain Jane, wallflower, spinster heroine and a sexy-as-sin, tarnished-heart-of-gold rogue hero to die for!
Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake is a truly delightful read with everything I love in a historical romance: an engaging story, witty dialogue, humor, drama, emotion, smokin’ hot love scenes, an endearing heroine, and a deliciously sexy rake hero reformed by love.
WOW! I loved this, especially devilishly charismatic rake, the Marquis of St. Aubyn. Saint is a deliciously debau...more5+ stars – Historical/Regency Romance
WOW! I loved this, especially devilishly charismatic rake, the Marquis of St. Aubyn. Saint is a deliciously debauched scoundrel who glories in his depraved ways and pursuits, but he meets his match in caring, headstrong Evelyn. She’s determined to save the Heart of Hope Orphanage and teach Saint a lesson in compassion in the process; even if it means engaging him in a provocative battle of wills and indulging in his dangerous game of seduction. But who will be the victor of their passionate “lessons in love”?
St. Aubyn reminded me a lot of Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent from Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas (one of the sexiest, yummiest romantic heroes, ever!), and both heroines have the same informal name, Evie, strong countenances, and kindhearted natures. Hmmm...interesting...But the stories are decidedly different and each have their own charms.
If you enjoy romances with unrepentant rake heroes who just love to be bad and spirited heroines who give as good as they get, then don’t miss this wonderful, engaging read. It’s a keeper! Big 5 stars!
His smooth panther’s stalk was magnetic even when he wasn’t hunting. With an entire room full of willing game, then, why was he after her?
This is my favorite sigh-worthy moment.
(view spoiler)[“I told you that I didn’t have a heart,” he continued as he gazed up at her, his voice shaking just a little. “I do have one. I just didn’t know it until I met you. You are my light. My soul craves you, and I love you with every ounce of the heart you’ve awakened in me. I...I could live without you, but I wouldn’t want to.”(hide spoiler)]
This is my favorite steamy moment.
(view spoiler)[The scene where Evelyn shaved Saint while he was chained up and then finally gave in to his wicked seduction was smokin’ hot! (hide spoiler)]
The vivacious, eccentric, loving Hathaways have utterly, irrevocably stolen my heart, and it’s with bittersweet affection...more5+ stars – Historical Romance
The vivacious, eccentric, loving Hathaways have utterly, irrevocably stolen my heart, and it’s with bittersweet affection that I wish them all a fond farewell as they live out their HEAs. *wipes eyes, blows nose into hanky*
What I loved most:
--Beatrix...She’s one of the funniest, most spirited, nonconforming, okay...peculiar, and lovable heroines, ever!
--The poignant letter correspondence between emotionally lost, haunted Christopher and compassionate, steadfast Beatrix was deeply moving and achingly romantic.
--Albert...The rambunctious, fiercely loyal man’s best friend nearly stole the show.
--The volatile, often humorous battle of wills, explosive sexual tension, and lusciously sensual, deeply passionate romance between Beatrix and Christopher.
What I didn’t like:
--That it ended much too soon. *wipes eyes, blows nose into hanky again*
But in all seriousness, I thought the issues facing Beatrix and Christopher, especially his PTSD, were wrapped up rather abruptly, and I wanted a more detailed, longer epilogue involving the entire family. I’m really hoping Kleypas will write a Hathaways novella, similar to what she did with A Wallflower Christmas, at some point in the future. Still, big 5 stars!
5 stars – Vampire/Paranormal/Urban Fantasy Romance
Thoughts Before Reading:
I am practically panting and salivating for Vlad’s book!
Thoughts After Readi...more5 stars – Vampire/Paranormal/Urban Fantasy Romance
Thoughts Before Reading:
I am practically panting and salivating for Vlad’s book!
Thoughts After Reading:
I am practically panting and salivating for Vlad’s next book!
Like I said in my status update...Bones might be the reigning king of chapter 32, but Vlad is the Night Prince of chapter 23! Yowza! Inferno hotness!
But in all seriousness...Bones is one of my all-time favorite Romancelandia husbands, and even though Vlad made a powerful showing, Bones still rules my loins supreme.
Although I wouldn’t be opposed to a Bones/Shawna/Vlad ménage...just sayin’ I’m totally game for that, Ms. Frost, should you ever need a new character to shake and kink things up a bit in the Night Huntress World!
Vlad is enigmatic, blazing hot, darkly possessive, and compellingly cruel, and I enjoyed his relationship with spunky Leila. Other than my disappointment with the ending, I loved being Once Burned and can’t wait to be Twice Tempted.
My favorite quotes:
“Two Leilas seemed to be battling it out inside me. The first was outraged that he still considered it a fait accompli that I’d give in to him, and the second...that slutty bitch was wondering what Vlad looked like naked.”
“If I didn’t want you so much,” he said in a deadly purr, “I’d let you keep fucking me with your gaze, but you make me impatient.”
Oh, how I loved, loved this book! I’m a sucker for emotional romances with tortured heroes, and Born...more5+ stars – Historical/Medieval/Highlander Romance
Oh, how I loved, loved this book! I’m a sucker for emotional romances with tortured heroes, and Born in Sin is a touching read featuring one of the most abused and anguished romantic heroes of any that I’ve read. Sin’s unbearably tragic past and continual suffering and mistreatment from others have made him justifiably brooding, jaded, distrustful, reclusive, and full of self-loathing, yet he treats the heroine with gentleness and reverence.
He’s one of the most unforgettable, heartbreaking, and sigh-worthy heroes in Romancelandia. And Callie, the plucky lass who’s determined to convince Sin he’s worthy of love and devotion, is one of the most spirited, steadfast, compassionate, loyal, and endearing heroines ever. Sin and Callie forge a love that is pure, poignant, passionate, inspiring, and truly wondrous.
Although it’s a medieval highland historical romance, Sin reminded me in some ways of another of my all-time favorite tortured heroes, Zsadist from Lover Awakened. And like Zsadist and Bella in Lover Awakened, Sin and Callie in Born in Sin are a treasured Romancelandia couple for the keeper shelf! Big 5 stars!
It’s hard to cast someone as dark, dangerous, and broodingly sexy as Lord Sin, but Eric Bana has his penetrating, midnight eyes. Dress him in all black knight garb, put him on a black war stallion, and give him a sword, and he’d make a compelling, forbidding Lord Sin.
And this sexy knight could portray Sin rather convincingly as well.
Oh how I enjoyed this one! Yes, it’s got the tried and true romance cliché of a brooding, tortured hero who doesn...more5 stars – Historical/Medieval Romance
Oh how I enjoyed this one! Yes, it’s got the tried and true romance cliché of a brooding, tortured hero who doesn’t believe himself worthy of happiness or love fighting his intense lust for the spirited maiden who’s determined to convince him otherwise. But Master of Desire manages to standout splendidly with its endearing, unforgettable characters, witty dialogue, and the perfect mix of angst, humor, sweetness, and heat.
Draven is such a sigh-worthy hero. I just wanted to hug him tight and help Emily heal his self-loathing and pain. And Emily is one of the pluckiest, most tenderhearted, amiable, and lovable heroines ever. They’re absolutely wonderful together...truly a romantic H/h for the keeper shelf! I just loved this!
Although I’ve enjoyed Sherrilyn Kenyon’s League series, this is the first book I’ve read under her Kinley MacGregor pen name, and I feel like I’ve been missing out. I’ll definitely read more by this author! 5 stars!
“Her chances of a decent marriage were about to be dashed-and all because of a ferret.” And thus begins the wonderfully...more5++ stars – Historical Romance
“Her chances of a decent marriage were about to be dashed-and all because of a ferret.” And thus begins the wonderfully romantic third installment in the saga of the eccentric Hathaway family, Tempt Me At Twilight.
Poppy Hathaway loves her quirky family, but she yearns for a conventional, quiet, normal, stable, peaceful, predictable, albeit boring, life. She believes wholeheartedly that she’s found her true soul’s desire in her beloved Michael Bayning, who’s courted her in private but has so far withheld a proposal due to concerns over his father’s likely disapproval over the match. When fate (in the form of a wily, on the loose ferret named Dodger) results in a clandestine meeting with mysterious, wealthy, powerful, reclusive, hotelier Harry Rutledge, Poppy’s future is forever altered.
Harry, owner of London’s most famous Rutledge Hotel, lives a rather solitary existence and never expects or desires to fall in love, but he’s immediately enamored and infatuated by lovely, intelligent, spirited Poppy and sets out to win her for himself. Poppy’s heart and devotion belong to Michael, but she still can’t help but be a bit intrigued and flattered by the enigmatic and dynamic Harry, especially with his persistent courtship and shocking proposal.
When Poppy finds herself heartbroken and her reputation and future security at risk, she accepts Harry’s marriage proposal, but then painful secrets are revealed that shatter her trust and wound her aching heart even further. What does a woman do when she finds herself married to the villain?
Kleypas is a master at turning tortured, cold, manipulative, cynical, ruthless men (even near villains) into the most sigh-delicious, swoon-worthy heroes in romance. Harry reminded me a little of Simon Hunt from Secrets of a Summer Night, only with a strong dose of Devil in Winter St. Vincent’s ruthlessness and vindictiveness thrown in. And sweet, caring, smart, bighearted, exuberant Poppy was the perfect compliment and match for cold-hearted, jaded, intrinsically lonely Harry...I just loved them together!
Although I enjoyed Mine Till Midnight, mainly for dreamy, yummy Cam Rohan, and loved Kev’s and Win’s achingly beautiful romance in Seduce Me at Sunrise, Tempt Me At Twilight, with its compelling, unforgettable story, beguiling, complex characters, strong depth of touching emotion, and lush sensuality that’s all blended together brilliantly, is vintage Kleypas and my favorite of the Hathaways series so far. It’s a splendid, moving, heartfelt, and utterly romantic read that’s completely riveting from beginning to end and just sheer historical romance perfection. Big 5 stars!
“I’ll never be sorry about it. Because if I hadn’t done it, you’d be his now. And he only wanted you if it was easy for him. But I want you any way I can get you. Not because you’re beautiful or clever or kind or adorable, although devil knows you’re all those things. I want you because there’s no one else like you, and I don’t ever want to start a day without seeing you.”
“Do you know what a balance wheel is?” She shook her head slightly. “There’s one in every clock or watch. It rotates back and forth without stopping. It’s what makes the ticking sound...what makes the hands move forward to mark the minutes. Without it, the watch wouldn’t work. You’re my balance wheel, Poppy.”
“I have so much love for you, I could fill rooms with it. Buildings. You’re surrounded by it wherever you go, you walk through it, breathe it...it’s in your lungs, and under your tongue, and between your fingers and toes...” His mouth moved passionately over hers, urging her lips apart. It was a kiss to level mountains and shake stars from the sky. It was a kiss to make angels faint and demons weep...a passionate, demanding, soul-searing kiss that nearly knocked the earth off its axis. Or at least that was how Poppy felt about it.
I didn’t know about this book until I read a couple of friends’ reviews here on GR, and I’m glad I gave it a shot becaus...more5 stars – Contemporary Romance
I didn’t know about this book until I read a couple of friends’ reviews here on GR, and I’m glad I gave it a shot because I was very pleasantly surprised by this delightful read. This is the second book that I’ve read by author Jill Shalvis, but I’m sure it won’t be the last.
“Instant Attraction” is the first book in the ‘Wilder’ series about three brothers (Cameron, Stone, and T.J. Wilder...gotta love those strong alpha names) who own Wilder Adventures and Expeditions, an extreme tours/sports company, in the town of Wishful, California in the Sierra Mountains. The three sexy, rugged outdoors men and extreme sport enthusiasts also happen to be the small town’s most eligible bachelors and notorious playboys.
In “Instant Attraction”, city girl Katie Kramer leaves the congestion, stress, and monotony of her life in LA and takes a job as an office temp at Wilder Adventures, where she hopes to embark on exciting new adventures of her own. After being the sole survivor of a tragic accident, Katie has a new outlook on life and is inspired to making her life count through new experiences. Former Olympic snowboarding champion Cameron Wilder is back home after a year of wallowing and soul searching while wandering the globe following his career ending accident. Katie and Cameron feel an instant pull and combustible attraction to one another, and she makes him feel something for the first time since his accident, which scares the hell out of him, especially since he’s pretty darn content to continue with his self-pitying, poor-me routine. They’re both survivors, but their traumatic experiences have left them with polar opposite attitudes. Gradually, Katie’s positive approach to life begins to influence Cameron and helps drag him from his pity-party.
The heroine’s cheerful personality, zest for life, and upbeat attitude are positively infectious and one of the main reasons the book is so enjoyable. Katie’s a shining example of a glass-is-half-full, life’s what you make it type of person, without being overly naïve or bubbly to the point of irritation. She’s bright, honest, funny, and sarcastic without being mean...a truly lovable heroine. That being said, there were still times that she annoyed the heck out of me with her lack of caution and recklessness. Just because someone vows to make each day count and to live life to the fullest doesn’t mean they have to take unnecessary risks to prove something...that’s a little overboard and foolish in my opinion. But still, she definitely made me smile and laugh, and I cracked up at her bravado and seduction antics after one too many vodka shots! Despite the whole ‘feeling sorry for himself’ thing, I still really liked Cameron and found his insights, honesty, and self-deprecating humor amusing, especially since he’s self-aware enough to know that his attitude and behavior suck. He’s just not sure how to fix things or how to change his glass-is-half-empty tendency, which is a realistic dilemma that a lot of people face every day in life.
There's also a secondary romantic entanglement between Cam's aunt Annie and her estranged husband Nick that’s a nice touch to the story. After years of marriage, they have unresolved tension and emotional distance in their relationship that’s resulted in repeated arguments and blatant sexual frustration, and it’s honest, funny, and touching.
The dialogue is witty and well written and the banter between the H/H is hilarious. I laughed out loud several times while reading this book, especially the scene where Katie and a couple of girlfriends drink too much vodka and she says some pretty brazen and crazy things to Cam in her drunken stupor!
“Instant Attraction” is a great contemporary romance and an enjoyable read! I’m looking forward to reading T.J. and Stone’s stories when they come out later this year. 5 stars!(less)
Annie’s Song is a simple, achingly sweet, heartfelt, soul-stirring, and poignant tale of how sincere kindness and love c...more5+ stars – Historical Romance
Annie’s Song is a simple, achingly sweet, heartfelt, soul-stirring, and poignant tale of how sincere kindness and love can truly transcend cruelty, hurt, language, disabilities, and boundaries of all kinds to soothe, heal, forgive, and redeem. There are a lot of wonderful things I could say about this remarkable love story, but perhaps succinct is best: it’s precious, beautiful, and moving like the sunsets and sounds Annie so treasures. It’s a memorable romance that tugs at the heartstrings. 5 sweetly satisfied stars!(less)
Words seem wholly inadequate, my friends. Why are the best books always the hardest to review?! Alas, if only I...more5+ stars – Historical/Regency Romance
Words seem wholly inadequate, my friends. Why are the best books always the hardest to review?! Alas, if only I could have clever Lady Whistledown write this.
Flirtatious, affable, charming, and witty Colin has been my favorite Bridgerton sibling from the beginning, and I was most looking forward to his story, especially knowing that the strikingly handsome, popular bachelor was being paired with his sister’s sweet best friend, plump, unpopular, wallflower, spinster Penelope Featherington. I adore romances where the supposedly ugly duckling, Plain Jane heroine is finally seen as a beautiful swan, has her day in the sun, and finds happily ever after with the wonderful hero of her dreams, and Romancing Mister Bridgerton is one of the most enjoyable that I’ve read.
Colin and Penelope are perfect for each other, and the fact that they’re insecure, flawed, and have some growing up to do makes them all the more relatable and lovable. Their relationship progression, from friendship to love, was believable, sweet, and utterly romantic, and the love scene was exceptionally touching, beautiful, sensual, and tender. Colin’s gentle, passionate reverence of Penelope during their lovemaking was sigh-worthy.
It’s a heartwarming, funny, and delightful feel good romance with a swoon-worthy hero and an adorable heroine that will have you smiling, laughing, crying, cheering, sighing, and perhaps wishing for your very own Mr. Colin Bridgerton.
What else can I say? It’s like the highest quality dark chocolate...just scrumptious! I’m in love with Colin, I adore Penelope, and I simply love, love, love this book! 5 Big, dreamy stars!
My favorite Colin quote:
He murmured her name, tenderly taking her face in his hands. “I love you,” he said, his voice low and fervent. “I love you with everything I am, everything I’ve been, and everything I hope to be.”
“I love you with my past, and I love you for my future.” He bent forward and kissed her, once, softly, on the lips. “I love you for the children we’ll have and for the years we’ll have together. I love you for every one of my smiles, and even more, for every one of your smiles.”
I love that Colin has striking green eyes. How about either of these hunks for Colin?
Cry No More...No kidding...I don’t think I had any tears left after reading this book. I stayed up until 3:30 in the morni...more5+ stars – Romantic Suspense
Cry No More...No kidding...I don’t think I had any tears left after reading this book. I stayed up until 3:30 in the morning to finish because I just had to find out what happened and the ending made me bawl like a baby. Seriously, I needed a box of tissues and a big hug when I turned the last page. It’s an intense, gut-wrenching, thought provoking, heartbreaking, emotional roller coaster ride that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it.
Milla is one of the strongest and most selfless heroines of any book that I’ve read, and her resilient determination in the face of such agonizing grief was brave yet often painful to witness.
Diaz...Sigh...The bounty hunter/assassin is a calm, calculating, ruthless, sexy, complex, dark gamma anti-hero worthy of his own Anne Stuart Ice story. He’s such a fascinating, hardened yet vulnerable character, and I just flat-out couldn’t get enough of him. Although Diaz is a cold man of few words, he and Milla share a powerful, volatile connection and explosive sexual chemistry. Their romantic relationship is complicated and intense, and the love scenes are off the charts, singe your fingertips, smokin’ hot!
With a plot that centers on a mother’s relentless hunt for justice and involves atrocious issues like baby snatching, child smuggling, and brutal killings for harvesting and selling organs on the black market, it’s a tough, unforgiving, and poignant read. This is the ideal antidote for anyone who says that romance novels are shallow, meaningless wastes of time. Big 5 stars!
This was just wonderful! I loved it, loved it, loved it! Daisy is a romantic dreamer with a big heart full of wisdom, and...more5+ stars – Historical Romance
This was just wonderful! I loved it, loved it, loved it! Daisy is a romantic dreamer with a big heart full of wisdom, and she's probably my favorite wallflower gal. This was another remarkable addition to the enchanting, witty, and charmingly romantic Wallflowers series worthy of big 5 stars!(less)
This is the first novel I have read by Lisa Kleypas, and I mainly read it in order to have the necessary background to...more5++ stars – Contemporary Romance
This is the first novel I have read by Lisa Kleypas, and I mainly read it in order to have the necessary background to read “Blue-Eyed Devil” and “Smooth Talking Stranger”, both of which had sparked my interest. I honestly didn’t have very high expectations of “Sugar Daddy” based on the mediocre book jacket description, after reading some of the mixed reviews referring to it as chick-lit rather than romance, and that it’s written solely in first person point of view, which isn’t my preference.
Needless to say, I was very pleasantly surprised and completely blown-away by this book. I read it on a plane and made an utter embarrassment of myself because I cried and laughed out loud through the entire book, often feeling both emotions on the same page! It’s extremely funny, touching, and emotionally moving.
I simply adored Liberty’s character and found myself rooting for her like a bubbly cheerleader. She goes through so much pain, turmoil, and hardship and yet maintains such a positive outlook on life. Witnessing her transition from an awkward, shy, self-conscious adolescent to a strong, independent, courageous, beautiful woman is heartwarming, especially since she always remains true to herself and her roots and puts her sister Carrington’s needs before her own. Liberty is funny, brave, selfless (almost too much so), caring, loyal, and innocent yet wise. She’s one of the most lovable heroines of any book I have ever read.
I agree that “Sugar Daddy” is perhaps more chick-lit than romance considering that the romance element doesn’t pick up pace until about a third of the way through the book, but I loved sharing Liberty’s life journey so much that I really didn’t mind it. Once the romance factor does heat up, it takes center stage in the story, and although it’s PG-13 and I usually prefer my romance to be a little (okay a lot) steamier, it’s absolutely engaging and beautifully written. There were moments when I would have liked for some of the narrative to come from Hardy's and Gage’s points of view, but the bottom line is that it’s Liberty’s tale and her life struggle and perspective are what drive the story.
As far as romantic interests for Liberty, there are two main hunks in the story, Hardy and Gage, and initially I thought I would be a Hardy fan, but I found myself being Team Gage all the way (at least as the best love interest for Liberty). Hardy might be sinfully sexy and devilishly charming, but I found myself rooting for steadfast Gage. He treats Liberty with so much respect and tenderness that it melted my heart like butter. He’s an absolute dreamboat once she manages to get past his tough exterior and defenses. The romance between Liberty and Gage is syrupy sweet...I couldn’t get enough of it!
Here are some random/favorite things that I loved and/or laughed about in “Sugar Daddy”: the emu story, Liberty giving her mom’s delivery nurse a folder with birthing instructions and preferences, the tender sister moments, references to how Texans love to deep fry everything (very true) and southern cooking and recipes (including my own sister’s favorite red velvet cake), accurate depictions of the differences between people from Dallas, Austin, and Houston, the sign “property of Liberty Jones” moment when Liberty gets custody of her sister (serious tears shed there), the relationship development between Liberty and Gage, and there are so many great life quotes and valuable life lessons in this book that it’s impossible to mention them all.
I grew up in Fort Worth/Dallas, have spent time in Houston for work, have lived in Austin for the past 8 years, and have family from/in various parts of Texas, and I can tell you that Kleypas’s portrayal of Texans and Texas culture in all three of her Travis’s series books (“Sugar Daddy”, “Blue-Eyed Devil”, and “Smooth Talking Stranger”) is quite fair and accurate.
Tammy’s review here on GR is great and includes a spot on story background, so I highly recommend checking it out.
“Sugar Daddy” is an utter delight, full of laughs and heartwarming moments, with characters to love and cheer for and terrific writing. I absolutely loooved it, and I would give it much more than 5 stars if I could...so big 5++ Texas stars!
The Travis’s series has turned me into a big Lisa Kleypas fan, and I plan on reading all of her historical romances now as well.
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