It all started with an Adventure Cycling ad for a companion looking for a grand adventure while cycling the 4262 mile Trans America Trail. Tom’s meddl...moreIt all started with an Adventure Cycling ad for a companion looking for a grand adventure while cycling the 4262 mile Trans America Trail. Tom’s meddling sister Taryn, pretends to be him, answers the ad and arranges for her brother to be the needy companion’s bike buddy. Yes, Tom planned to cycle the trail over the summer. Alone. Tom is a non-repentant antisocial creature and wants to spend a few months cycling from Astoria, Oregon, to Yorktown, Virginia, in solitude. He doesn’t want a buddy. He doesn’t do buddies. Taryn, however is having none of it.
“Please, Tom. You can’t ride your bicycle across the country alone. It’s insane. You’ll end up being slaughtered by a serial killer.”
“Taryn, I’m thirty-five, single, tattooed, and antisocial. I’m the serial killer.”
“Okay, point taken. But you could get hit by a car and bleed to death by the side of the road.”
“How would riding with another person prevent that?”
“It wouldn’t, but he could call me on his cell phone so you could tell me you love me with your dying breath.”
Tom isn’t a serial killer. He is actually an honorable guy with a conscience who made difficult choices, did the right thing and ended up estranged from most of his family for the past six years. Hence he prefers his own company, but Tom finds himself on the beach with his bike and gear at 6 am the following morning waiting to meet Alex Marshall, the guy his sister has arranged to be his unwanted bike buddy. The plan is to unload Alex at the first opportunity because Tom already hates the guy. The thing is, Alex is Alexandra “Lexie” Marshall and she is all perky and excited to be embarking on a 4 month cycling adventure, with Tom who tells the very pretty Lexie that their traveling together is a bad idea.
Tom Geiger, isn’t at all what Lexie imagined, she was prepared to have to deal with some shock regarding her gender as she wasn’t exactly forthcoming about the fact she had breasts during the months of correspondence with Tom. What she wasn’t expecting was for him to be hostile, not to mention weird with no communication skills. Tom is young, handsome and fit and Lexie isn’t keen to travel alone, so she digs in and sets up negotiations with her monosyllabic soon-to-be cycling partner. Tom then explains that it was his sister, not him that made the arrangements and he planned to travel solo. Lexie is tenacious and after an intense exchange during which she manufactures a husband, Tom relents and agrees to bike with her. He still plans to dump her with another more compatible partner sooner rather than later. Famous last words.
The juxtaposition author Ruthie Knox establishes between Tom and Lexie is wonderful. He is a seasoned cyclist who wears khaki’s and rides an older well used and loved bike. A crusty introvert who works as a bike mechanic in a shop, Tom does not suffer fools gladly and isn’t afraid to say so. He really does like repelling people. lol Lexie has trained for this adventure and has a brand new bike with an abundance of high-tech gadgetry. An affable extrovert, she works as a teacher and loves chatting up cyclists and listening to their war stories regarding times on the road. Lexie also has a set itinerary all mapped out for the trek and has no intention of deviating from it. Tom has plans to cycle off the beaten trail, go where the wind takes him so to speak, alone. lol As we know opposites attract and Knox writes a narrative with high-octane sexual chemistry.
As the days go on and the miles fly by, Lexie slowly comes to realize that Tom isn’t at all what he seems. Still waters run deep as they say and while Tom’s tend to be quite choppy (Lexie is often frustrated by his variable moods) he proves to be extremely intelligent and worldly. Along with the outdoors and cycling they share a love for Thoreau’s Walden. There are a number of touching scenes in this story but one in particular where the couple discuss their views of Walden, while cycling up a steep precipice was very memorable. Tom relates the way he currently lives his life to the themes explored in Thoreau’s classic novel.
Ride with Me takes readers on fast-paced across country cycling adventure that offers vivid descriptions of beautiful landscapes, stops at out-of-the-way charming towns and places to eat. Knox brings these touring cyclists to life, giving readers a realistic view of what it’s like to live outdoors for weeks with only a bike as transportation. As a person whose idea of roughing it is a stay at the Holiday Inn, the whole camping thing? *shivers* LOL But Lexie and Tom find ways to stay warm at night. *waggles brows*
As it turns out, hero Tom is a complex man who carries significant emotional baggage. He has a number of issues to work through related to his family, and is a casualty of a failed marriage. Lexie is jaded secondary to a very unhappy outcome of a previous serious relationship. Knox created endearing characters who I wanted to see happy and together at the end of the story.
Ruthie Knox is fun, and darn witty! Humorous sarcastic dialogue and introspection added many laugh out loud moments to a read that I enjoyed in one sitting. Do these two competitive cyclists get a second chance at love? Well, I will say Ride with Me doesn’t disappoint. ;)
If you enjoy a unique well crafted contemporary sexy sports themed romance, you may like to give Ride with Me a try.
Weddings, while joyous are also stressful events and Avery Wirth’s is particularly so as she and her fiancé live in Los Angeles, her wedding will take...moreWeddings, while joyous are also stressful events and Avery Wirth’s is particularly so as she and her fiancé live in Los Angeles, her wedding will take place in small town Mapleglen, Illinois, where she grew up. Avery wants a small wedding and knew that if left to her mother, Margo the event would become huge and ostentatious. So Avery enlisted the help of her best friend Kaelin Daume, who lives in Mapleglen, to keep Margo under control and make sure the wedding is kept to her specifications. Kaelin has always done the right thing, she is considered a “good and sweet” girl who volunteers at the church, visits the local seniors home with her little dog Taz, she is the first to step in and help when needed. The Wirth’s are financially well off, Avery’s father is a physician and they are very concerned about appearances in their upper class, conservative cloister. Kaelin has had her hands full dealing with Margo but managed to keep control and implement Avery’s wishes.
The Wirth family have numerous skeletons rattling around in a closet full of dark secrets surrounding their estranged son Tyler who hasn’t been home or seen his family in 10 years. Avery begged Tyler to come to her wedding and invited his best friend and business partner Nick as well. Mother and father Wirth don’t much care for Nick either. Tyler is a talented, successful marketing entrepreneur who has his own company and Nick is an accountant, the numbers man. They live together in Chicago and share an intimate as well as professional relationship. Growing up, Tyler was known as the town bad boy always getting into trouble and disappointing his conservative parents. The event that resulted in his alienation from his family involved Nick and another girl. In addition, while no one else knows except the involved parties, sweet, innocent Kaelin Daume witnessed the tryst.
Tyler and Nick’s return to Mapleglen opens a well of pain for Kaelin. While she projects an image of a paragon of virtue who everyone can depend on, Kaelin harbors secret needs and wants. She gave up her dreams to look after her ailing father when her mother died. She has never had a fulfilling sexual relationship. And, she is sick to the teeth of being referred to as a good girl (I would be too). Kaelin keeps a tight lid on her emotions and stays in Mapleglen working as a paralegal for an ultraconservative law firm because she is afraid to leave. The scene Kaelin witnessed between Tyler, Nick and the other girl was erotic and incendiary but also painful as Kaelin had deep feelings for Tyler. She has replayed that night over and over in her mind over the years and now must face him and Nick again.
Author Kelly Jamieson crafts an emotional story introducing readers to three characters who want and need each other but are separated by years of pain and guilt. Tyler is a difficult, angry man who has alienated himself from his parents because he feels he will never live up to their expectations. He has crafted a life for himself in Chicago with Nick at his side but has never reconciled his family issues or his deep feelings for Kaelin. Jamieson binds Tyler, Kaelin and Nick together in an unexpected wild night of passion which ultimately releases a tidal wave of feelings, misconceptions and dark secrets.
And, there is Margo Wirth, an unhappy woman at the crossroads of her life, who deeply regrets the loss of a relationship with her son. She has high hopes for her family’s reunion at Avery’s wedding.
While One Wicked Night is a hot erotic ménage à trois romance, it also tells the story of a small town family torn apart by secrets, and a boy who felt unloved, living in the shadow of a sister who could do no wrong. Tyler isn’t always easy to like but the author proves him to be misunderstood, and tormented. Kaelin is a woman who has repressed her sexuality (she discovers she quite likes kink) and sacrificed her happiness to be what everyone expects of her. It isn’t an easy path for Tyler, Kaelin and Nick but it makes the story’s conclusion all the more sweet.
I’ve gotten pretty picky regarding ménage themed erotic romance in my reading, but I really liked Kelly Jamieson’s voice and look forward to reading more of her work. This story worked for me. (less)
Alexis Baptiste, a devoted single mom to her 5-year-old son Jonathan lives quietly in a small town in North Carolina. Alexis will soon marry Michael, ...moreAlexis Baptiste, a devoted single mom to her 5-year-old son Jonathan lives quietly in a small town in North Carolina. Alexis will soon marry Michael, a wealthy area businessman who loves her and treats Jonathan like his own son. While passion is lacking in their relationship Alexis is settled with her decision, Michael offers security, he is dependable and caring and will make a good life for her and Jonathan. It’s evident however, that Alexis Baptiste’s heart belongs to another man, Jonathan’s father, Hunter Cassidy, even though she believes he abandoned her and broke her heart 6 years earlier. Alexis has no idea where Hunter is or if he is alive.
An ex-DEA agent Hunter has been working undercover for 6 long years in the in the jungles of South America. He didn’t choose this undercover mission, it wasn’t sanctioned by the DEA. Hunter was blackmailed by Tom Davis, a traitorous rogue CIA spook. Reus, can really write a nasty antoginist and Tom Davis as well as his associates are major nasties! Hunter cultivated a role as an international arms dealer, and used his contacts to infiltrate a drug kingpins inner circle and steal secrets regarding Davis’ dealings that will expose him. That’s if Hunter can get the information into credible hands before Davis stops him, permanently. However, that’s not all, Davis knows what Alexis means to Hunter and if Davis can get to her before Hunter he will hold the trump card. Hunter Cassidy has no idea he is the father of a 5-year-old son. With the bad guys in hot pursuit, Hunter leaves Central America and heads to North Carolina, and the woman he left holding his heart 6 years ago.
In Hunter Katie Reus crafts a seasoned, highly trained agent who is extremely conflicted about what he has had to do to survive and protect Alexis from Tom Davis’ evil. This hero’s shame and self loathing is quite palpable, even though he wants Alexis desperately but he feels he isn’t worthy and given what has happened between them is fully aware he will never be welcome in her life again. One of the many things I loved about this story is that Hunter realizes immediately after seeing his son for the first time that Jonathan is his. He does the math and the boy looks like him. So, it’s a double whammy, not only is his lost love engaged to another man who is obviously good to her, Hunter feels he has no place in his son’s life. Even worse, deadly danger is coming to Alexis and Jonathan’s door, and it’s his fault.
Alexis’ world tips on it’s axis when she sees Hunter sitting in a car on the street outside the studio where she has attended a final bridal gown fitting. (I know, ironic.) She refuses to acknowledge Hunter, harboring a seething anger and distrust of the man who hurt her so badly. However, when her an her son’s lives are threatened and it is apparent Hunter is the only man capable of protecting her and Jonathan, she is forced to let him back in her life.
Brace yourself! His Secret Past, is action packed and very fast paced with a number of surprises in store. Reus has crafted a plot full of treachery and corruption that connects to the highest levels of government.
What impressed me most about this story is the characterization and primary role given to Jonathan. His initial shyness and wonder at meeting his real father for the first time, as well as how he adapts to the change in his life and danger unfolding around him was so realistic. It is especially poignant to see Jonathan’s relationship with Hunter grow and blossom into a special connection. Reus doesn’t hold back in integrating Jonathan into a life and death kidnap scene and harrowing escape. There are a number of nail-biting sequences in this story that showed the hero’s bravery and lethal defense skills. There are kill scenes incorporated into the storyline but the child is spared that visual.
Alexis stands out as a remarkable, brave woman who does what she must to protect her son. Further, I liked how once she understood what Hunter had endured she accepted his past and realized that he did what he had to do to protect her when he left.
I also liked Michael, who proves to be one of the good guys by helping Alexis and Hunter as best he can. While I felt sorry that he didn’t get the woman he loved, the author does give closure to his story. ;)
His Secret Past offers a multi-layered romantic suspense with a double barreled lovers reacquainted and secret baby themes. The sensuality is light but the author treats readers to a powerful, dominating hero who is matched with an equally strong woman who demonstrates surprising resourcefulness under the worst of circumstances. I’ve read a number of Katie Reus books now, and I have to say this one is my favorite.
Rocky Mountain Haven was a special, awesome read for me.
After the death of her husband in a car crash, Beth Danube, a 29-year-old mother o...moreRocky Mountain Haven was a special, awesome read for me.
After the death of her husband in a car crash, Beth Danube, a 29-year-old mother of 3 young sons moves from Calgary, Alberta to small town Rocky Mountain House to start a new life. When the accommodation she has arranged doesn’t work out the building’s owner arranges for her and the children to move into a house next door to the Coleman’s Six Pack Ranch. Before leaving Calgary, Beth gathered together the threads of her tattered self esteem and courageously agreed to go for an evening out to a bar along with her sister. Beth meets Daniel Coleman and there is instant sexual chemistry between them, he wants to see her again. However, Beth is skittish, while she needs and wants to explore her sexuality she is in no way ready to share personal information with a man. You see, Beth suffered 10 years of emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her husband.
Daniel is none too happy when he discovers the phone number the lovely, appealing Beth has given him is disconnected. Even though the setting of their first meeting wasn’t optimum he felt a connection with her and really wanted to get to know her. Daniel is 25 and has dealt with his own difficult personal issues and loss. He was deeply hurt by his former girlfriend but I saw him as a man who was ready for the right woman to come into his life.
Unlike Rocky Mountain Heat, the first novel of Vivian Arend’s Six Pack Ranch series, Rocky Mountain Haven is far more focused on the relationship of the heroine and hero, which was necessary given their complexities. When Daniel discovers Beth is living next door with her 3 young boys, he wastes no time in pursuing what ignited between them in that Calgary bar. What is wonderful and heartwarming is that he shows her compassion and understanding. In Daniel, Arend crafts a handsome, honorable alpha male, who shows remarkable maturity and intelligence. Daniel recognizes Beth is suffering and working through many issues, a good mother who is very sensitive to her sons needs. Arend develops their special love story over the course of the novel, along with forging a relationship between Daniel and Beth’s 3 young boys. There is one particularly emotional scene near the end where Daniel has a heart-to-heart talk with 7-year-old Nathan concerning his father that brought tears to my eyes.
Beth’s ability to trust and begin to enjoy living a full life also shines through. She has a teaching position at the local high school, she begins to socialize, not only with Daniel but also the close knit Colemans. She also learns the joy and value of having a circle of female friends in the Coleman women for the first time in her adult life. Moreover, Daniel and Beth are able to share their sense of loss and pain regarding a particularly sensitive medical issue. Beth is a woman with deep, painful secrets which she reveals to Daniel as their relationship strengthens.
This story isn’t all serious and emotional, Arend’s signature wit permeates the narrative, the dialogue and thoughtful introspection is fitting for the novel’s setting and demographic. And, of course you get smoking hot love scenes as Daniel nurtures Beth allowing her to explore her sensual nature for the first time in her life. Arend doesn’t shy away from penning kink into the love scenes of her erotic romances, this one is no exception. ;)
There is a sub-plot involving Coleman cousin Gabe who is at the crossroads of his life and deciding how best to move forward. Gabe was introduced in Rocky Mountain Heat and Vivian Arend appears to be building his story over the course of the series. I really like Gabe and look forward to seeing where the author takes him next.
Rocky Mountain Haven offers readers a heartwarming story of a second chance at love set in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. I read this one in one sitting and enjoyed every minute. Coleman brother Matt’s story, Rocky Mountain Desire will be released next and I’m so looking forward to reading his story! :)
As a favor to her friend and colleague Max, a Sacramento District Attorney, Brie Valenzuela, arranges lodging and a job in Virgin River for Conner Dan...moreAs a favor to her friend and colleague Max, a Sacramento District Attorney, Brie Valenzuela, arranges lodging and a job in Virgin River for Conner Danson, a witness who needs to be hidden. Conner saw a high-profile and well known businessman shoot another man and stash the body in the dumpster behind his hardware store. Conner’s store was subsequently burned to the ground and his life threatened. He needs protection and refuge until he can testify at the bad guy’s trial. Robyn Carr ramps up the suspense in the opening pages of Hidden Summit and introduces an extremely strong, appealing hero in Conner Danson.
Conner’s life has been irrevocably changed as a result of doing the right thing. He called the police immediately after witnessing the shooting and agreed to testify against Regis Mathis, a man he can unquestionably identify as the murderer. Was doing the right thing worth losing his livelihood and having his life turned into a living nightmare for? Conner has asked himself the same question during lengthy periods of reflection and loneliness while suffering an exile from those close to him. Carr provoked considerable empathy for Conner for a variety of reasons but I also admired his strength and resolve. He presents as an honest, forthcoming man who calls a spade-a-spade and doesn’t lie well. Conner has considerable personal baggage as well. Previously married, his ex-wife proved to be a sex addict who cheated on him constantly, so he tends to be cynical regarding the institution of marriage and relationships.
About the time Connor is getting settled in to the picturesque, cloistered town, Leslie Petruso arrives in Virgin River. Leslie is reeling from a painful divorce that left her with low self esteem and very little dignity. Back home in Grants Pass Leslie encountered her ex-husband and his new younger, now pregnant spouse everywhere. Her ex has been on a mission to be Leslie’s close friend and make sure everyone in town is aware that he is doing his best to make sure they are on good terms, despite the fact he cheated on his wife of 8-years and made sure she was left with very little of the money accrued during their union. In essence, Leslie was deeply hurt, and taken to the cleaners financially to boot. One thing becomes clear, for her emotional health she had to leave her home and put some distance between herself and her horrible ex. So she approaches Paul Haggerty, a good friend and son of her longtime employer for a job and refuge. Paul runs a construction company in Virgin River and is badly in need of an administrative assistant. He also has property that he makes available for Leslie to rent. She is perfect for the job, Leslie is smart and efficient, she knows the business and gets his mess organized quickly. Leslie is also accustomed construction workers and keeps everyone in line. She feels comfortable in the little town and her emotional stress immediately lessens. Leslie has no intention of opening her shredded heart to another man, and I have to say I related to her resolve given what she has endured at the hands hands of her self obsessed ex-husband. However, things change, she meets Connor.
Things get off to a rocky start for these lovers. When Connor first meets Leslie, she is with Paul (a man of integrity in a committed marital relationship) who is offering her support and a friendly shoulder to cry on before getting her settled into her new home. Connor automatically assumes she is having an affair with a married man who it just so happens turns out to be his employer. Leslie and Connor have instant sexual chemistry but she is deeply offended when she discovers Connor’s suspicions regarding her private life and takes him to task. Eventually Connor earns his way back into Leslie’s good graces and once he discovers she is available his tactics in wooing her certainly won my heart. Carr pens light sensuality into the loves scenes of this novel. What impressed me was the author develops a mature relationship between these lovers. They are both in their 30’s, have suffered hurt and loss and are taking small steps back to trust and intimacy. Theirs is a believable story. Connor is absolutely awesome in his understanding of Leslie’s issues, the damage her ex caused to her self esteem and confidence where men are concerned. And, Leslie finds she is comfortable being open and honest with Connor about her feelings. Carr crafts a hero and heroine who have more in common than they initially realize.
In the background of Connor and Leslie’s relationship is vivid imagery of the country and the sense of community that is inherent to the town. Carr brilliantly instills such warmth into a fast paced narrative that grabbed me from the opening pages and kept this reader enthralled. The dialogue is crisp and laced with wonderful humor. There is plenty of conflict, Connor is forced to keep many secrets from Leslie because of his situation. The villain gets out on parole and presents a looming threat with lethal connections. Connor is well hidden in Virgin River, or is he?
Carr pens an exciting, surprise ending for Hidden Summit which offers an HEA that will warm your heart. This book was a cover to cover read for me, I became completely invested in Leslie and Connor’s story and wanted to see them together, two people at the crossroads of their lives who meet under highly unusual circumstances and endure. I can see why Robyn Carr receives such high accolades from so many readers. If all my 2012 reads are this good, I’m in for a great year.(less)
Don’t be confused by the title of Nicola Marsh’s zany comedic romance Busted in Bollywood, it’s heroine Shari Jones doesn’t get arrested. Shari’s best...moreDon’t be confused by the title of Nicola Marsh’s zany comedic romance Busted in Bollywood, it’s heroine Shari Jones doesn’t get arrested. Shari’s best-friend Amrita “Rita” Muthu’s parents have arranged her marriage to Rakesh Rama, the son of a wealthy Mumbai family. Rita wants no part of it and convinces buddy Shari to fly to Mumbai, India impersonate her and foil the whole marriage to the stooge plan.
Shari is going through a rough time. She has recently broken up with her married lover who also provided lodging and he was her boss. So, not only did the relationship end, she also lost her job and home. Talk about a triple whammy! Shari moved in with Rita after her personal train wreck and three months later, she still hasn’t found work. Shari is smart and assertive and Rita figures if anyone can get her out of this mess her friend can. So, off to Mumbai Shari goes, but things don’t quite work out as planned.
Readers, like Shari are given quite an introduction to the chaos and bedlam that is Mumbai. Rita’s Auntie Anjali is the girls partner in crime and she, and her driver Buddy, meet Shari at the airport. A hair raising car ride through the city to “Auntie’s” home ensues. Nicola Marsh writes vivid descriptions laced with hilarious sarcastic dialogue that had me roaring with laughter. Besides eating, Anjali’s other obsession is Bollywood movies which surfaces more as Shari is shown the studios and introduced to what can be best be described as a cultural icon.
Rakesh proves to be handsome, intelligent and quite likable, and as Shari gets to know him it’s apparent he has a lot in common with Rita. Oh, and he is also savvy and very rich. During their first introduction at an enormous family welcoming party Rakesh takes his “intended” aside and lets her know that the jig is up. Rakesh knows she is not Rita, discovered through online investigation made available through his business. Busted! Surprisingly, to save Rita and the two families face, Rakesh agrees to support the girls ruse. Further, he informs her he has every intention of meeting Rita. Rakesh is intrigued by Rita’s ingenuity. *waggles brows*
Here is a little snippet to let you in on some of the fun. Rakesh and Shari are nattering at each other about favorite movies during a car ride to the Bollywood Studios and Auntie has had enough of the nonsense:
I shook my head. My nerves were shot, courtesy of confronting Drew shortly. I wasn’t in the mood for Anjali to regale us with whatever tale had elicited those tears.
“Are we there yet?” I changed the subject, glancing out the window on endless barren land, people foraging on the roadside, and an all- pervading dust that covered everything in a red haze.
Rakesh chuckled. “You sure know how to impress a guy. Name- this-movie games, are we there yet? Conversation, and that sullen pout.”
“Who said I’m trying to impress you?”
He blew me a kiss and I couldn’t help but smile. “Is that any way to talk to your number one guy? Your betrothed? Your fiancé? The man of your dreams? Your—
“Okay, okay. I get the picture.” Wiseass, I mouthed, aware we had to maintain the façade for Buddy—loose lips sink ships and I had no intention of letting Rita’s ship go the way of the Titanic—and wondering exactly how far I’d have to go before the end of this trip.
Drew Lansford, is a Brit and Rakish’s partner who sees Shari as a gold-digger out to deceive and take advantage of his friend. Drew is hot! A Hugh Grant look alike, he is sexy, world traveled, rich and polished. Things get off to a rocky start between the hero and heroine of this novel considering the wacky circumstances surrounding their introduction but feelings change once Drew discovers Shari’s real motivations. Despite their initial animosity major sexual chemistry brews between these two.
Despite the fact he knew I was a phony and rubbed me the wrong way after one meeting, an irrational, inexplicable, intense, mind- numbing lust stabbed through my veneer of indifference and made me want to fling open the car door and run toward him.
Sheesh, I think the drama of being here was getting to me already.
There are a number of hilarious e-mail exchanges between Shari and Rita during her time in Mumbai. I have to say Rita is a weapon, I love stories involving strong female friendships, I find it adds depth to a storyline. Shari and Rita’s camaraderie and support for one another shines through.
Rakish and Drew are big investors in Bollywood movie productions, and references to this billion dollar business are consistent (hence the title) throughout the story. While reading Busted in Bollywood I couldn’t help but think of the movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” as the author weaves lush descriptions of Hindi culture and family dynamic into the narrative. Busted in Bollywood is told in the first person by Shari, and the dialogue and introspection is full of witty quips and dry sarcasm. All around good fun! Readers can look forward to a two pronged romance. Shari and her Brit eventually do become involved, but Rita, much to her surprise also finds happiness with the fellow she once viewed with disdain. I thoroughly enjoyed this unique, fast-paced laugh out loud contemporary romance. Shari’s previous relationship left her confidence in tatters, and her crazy, impulsive trip to Mumbai proves to be a life changing experience, in more ways then one.
Vivian Arend’s Six Pack Ranch series chronicles the Coleman family, a tight knit clan of rural Alberta ranchers who have farmed the land for generatio...moreVivian Arend’s Six Pack Ranch series chronicles the Coleman family, a tight knit clan of rural Alberta ranchers who have farmed the land for generations. Mike and Marion Colman are salt of the earth folks who have raised 6 strapping sons. This is a family with deep roots in their community and the land which Ms. Arend’s vivid descriptions bring to life. Rocky Mountain Heat is eldest son Blake’s story but the author also provides an excellent introduction to the entire clan, specifically six brothers who, as with any family, each have their strengths and weaknesses.
When Marion is in an accident and suffers an injury that will lay the family’s matriarch up for a while, Mike enlists the assistance of Jaxi, the story’s feisty, strong-minded, very determined heroine. Jaxi is an only child who grew up next door to the Coleman ranch and the boys began to notice when their scrawny country-girl friend blossomed into a beautiful young woman. As a teenager Jaxi dated Travis Coleman for a time but she loved Blake from the time she was a child. Jaxi is now 21, and while many of her friends have abandoned small town life for the city, she thrives in the country and loves ranching. Ms. Arend paints a realistic portrait of what life running a ranch is like. It’s hard labour, everyone pitches in to do their part to keep the business flourishing. Jaxi wants this life, it’s in her bones and Blake Coleman has her heart. So, she goes after what she wants.
Blake has certainly noticed that Jaxi is no longer the little girl he watched after while growing up. He wants her badly but there are a number of barriers in the way of pursuing his desire. First: Age. Blake feels he is too old for Jaxi as he is 10 years her senior. Second: Her previous involvement with Travis. Third: He feels she sees him as a big brother and would be appalled if he makes a move. Fourth: His younger twin brothers Jesse and Joel who are close in age to Jaxi and are also interested more then friendship. Then Jaxi moves into the Coleman house to help care for Marian and take over her chores. Blake now has to cope with Jaxi being close day and night, and she makes no bones about the fact she wants him. It makes for great sport.
Rocky Mountain Heat offers readers major sexual chemistry and tension. When Jaxi and Blake finally do become intimate the love scenes are sexually explicit. Blake is a dominate lover and if you like a virgin trope in your romance this story will please.
What I really enjoyed about this novella is the sense of family and community embedded into the storyline. As well, the character development of all six of the brothers. Each has personal issues related to the women in their lives (or lack there of) and I was impressed by how the author took time to give readers good insight into each of their personalities.
At it’s heart I think Rocky Mountain Heat can best be described as a sweet, sexy story that explores the evolution of a relationship from a childhood crush to a deep lasting love. Blake is a tough sell but he meets his match in Jaxi, a woman who pulls out all the stops to win her man. The nice thing is Blake discovers that “Slick” is the best thing that ever happened to him. I’m looking forward to reading Rocky Mountain Haven, Book II in the Six Pack Ranch series, which is Daniel Coleman’s story.
The Last Slayer is told in the first person by it’s tough as nails call a spade a spade heroine Ashera del Cid, the best demon hunter around. Ashera h...moreThe Last Slayer is told in the first person by it’s tough as nails call a spade a spade heroine Ashera del Cid, the best demon hunter around. Ashera has made junior partner in her firm which takes care of all types of supernaturally related pests. She is also the foremost dragon specialist in the country.
Over the course of her novel Nadia Lee takes readers to two very different worlds. At first, we are introduced to Ashera’s life set in present day as a mortal demon hunter who is skilled at using magic and weapons to hunt and if necessary destroy demons (particularly succubus). However, the bulk of The Last Slayer takes place in a different dimension where dragons of all different types and capabilities live under a medieval feudal system in places called dragonholds. An extremely powerful Dragonlord demigod presides over each dragonhold. There is an Arthurian good versus evil theme in The Last Slayer as there is a power struggle between the Dragonlords, which to put simply the holds are divided into two factions so we have a stark division between the good (Ashera and Ramiel’s side) against the bad guys.
Early in the story Ashera is sent on a job to supposedly rid a client of a dangerous succubus. The assignment turns out to be more challenging then expected when she finds herself battling a very nasty demon who tells her she has been marked. Ashera destroys the demon but is approached by another seductive, handsome very powerful being with a cryptic message and he then disappears. She doesn’t give the notion of being marked too much thought but later, when her life changes radically she learns what it entails. And, trust me it isn’t good when you are being pursued by a gigantic wyrm dragon who eats people and spits acid balls that burrow into one’s body.
Ashera turns 27 and due to a prophesy she knew nothing about she is forced to give up the life she has known and is thrust into the dragons medieval world. It is not all bad; her new life comes with an ally, Ramiel, the same handsome supernatural she met while on her earlier assignment. It turns out Ramiel is the Dragonlord of Besade, an extremely powerful, warrior demigod who commands a legion of dragons. Ramiel is part incubus, a major hottie for whom Ashera feels significant attraction. Ramiel has made a vow with regard to assisting Ashera achieve her destiny, and…he becomes her lover.
Lee has penned light eroticism into her story but there is far more to it than the love scenes crafted for Ashera and Ramiel. Sex (with a capital S) is like a magic booster so the essence created during copulation is actually gathered, bottled and sold like a drug. A supernatural’s power and healing abilities are enhanced while making love and certainly in the aftermath as they are able to absorb Sex in its purest form. The experience therefore goes beyond the rush of physical pleasure and emotional connection; it is a source of power, much like a battery recharge. Ashera and Ramiel’s relationship isn’t easy, her lover is a warrior, communicates poorly and keeps secrets.
Ashera always believed she was an orphan, she was kept in the dark regarding her heritage for protection. She is able to visit her mother who resides on another plane of existence and Ashera receives a powerful magical gift. Her reunion with her mother, Leh, was an emotional and enlightening point in Ashera’s transition to her new life. She has much to learn and understand.
There is a definite Japanese influence embedded in the plot, particularly with regard to weaponry, armor and battle tactics. I couldn’t help but think of the Samurai of old as I was reading The Last Slayer. This is a dark urban fantasy story, there are a number of bloody action and battle scenes, so be prepared for decapitations and gore. Readers can also expect humor, Ashera is witty and quick with sharp come backs.
I’m very impressed with the vivid descriptions in Lee’s narrative; she brought her creative alternate world to life. The final battle scene of the story is a depiction of clouds various forms of dragons in a military formation, flying, marching and burrowing to face an opposing army. I would describe Ashera as a reluctant heroine in some ways although she is very brave and wields her magical sword with might and confidence she does face a bone deep fear for the first time in her life. She learns to ride an amphitere, which is a very cool trained flying dragon (kind of like a flying war-horse). The Last Slayer is complex and Nadia Lee does a phenomenal amount of world building in the first book of what is to be a trilogy of stories.
I enjoyed The Last Slayer very much, my only niggle is that I would have liked to read some of the story from Ramiel’s POV. However an Epilogue does provide a POV switch and an intriguing lead in to the next story in the series.
The synopsis of Hot Text gives an excellent overview of the plot of this erotic novella but what it doesn’t reflect is Cari Quinn’s wonderful witty pr...moreThe synopsis of Hot Text gives an excellent overview of the plot of this erotic novella but what it doesn’t reflect is Cari Quinn’s wonderful witty prose and dialogue which had this reader smiling and laughing on a number of occasions.
Hero Jeff isn’t a people person. He edits technical manuals for a living and prefers to use words in the written form to conversing with other human beings. He does however love his sister Daisy and wants the best for her. So when she gets mixed up with married Lonny, Jeff is less then impressed with his sister’s choice of A partner. The fact that “Lon” indicates he is separated from his wife doesn’t reassure Jeff in the least even though he is twice divorced and doesn’t have much faith in marriage as an institution. I really liked Jeff, he is honest, calls a spade-a-spade, doesn’t make excuses for his love for and use of profanity, he is just darn appealing. Jeff discovers Lon has left his cell phone behind at his sister’s, which presents the perfect opportunity to meddle. Jeff uses the cell phone to text Lon’s estranged wife asking her to meet him so it can be returned.
“Why do you have Lon’s phone?”
Again that long silence. She should have found it creepy. Odd silences, probing
stares and strange meeting circumstances added up to bad news. Especially when they
all originated from a guy who claimed to be her husband’s friend but seemed to know
little about their personal situation.
“He left it behind.”
“Behind where?”
“Why are you divorcing?” he asked, shifting only a fraction when a couple entered
the shop and attempted to sidestep him.
“Here, why don’t we sit down.” She returned to the table behind her, hoping he’d
follow.
He did, but only after what seemed to be great deliberation. He pulled a chair out
and dropped into it, spreading his long jean-clad legs wide without any thought to her
personal space. A new scent drifted over her as he settled, one more intimate than
coffee or peppermint or the wet smell of drying wool.
Him. Hot, male, potent. No aftershave or cologne, just skin and sweat. She wouldn’t
have been surprised if her nose twitched.
She’d clearly gone too long without male companionship if any brute who walked
her way made her sit up and take notice. Even one with pretty eyes and scowling lips.
And firm thighs snugly encased in nearly threadbare denim. She’d noticed that too.
“You asked why we’re divorcing,” she said, reaching for her empty cup. She
stretched her fingers around the leftover warmth and wished she hadn’t drunk it so fast. She would’ve appreciated the diversion. “You’d probably be better off asking him,
though I have my opinions. He wanted children. I didn’t produce any. Then when he
decided to make up for the lack by changing our lifestyle, he became bored with me.
I’m a homebody. Perfectly happy staying in with my movies and my paints. He wasn’t
satisfied, in any number of ways.” She smiled faintly. “Preschool teachers aren’t exactly
wild.”
Jeff’s jaw slackened for an instant before he recovered. Had she shocked him?
Good. She liked having the power to do that to someone. It had been a very long time since she’d said or done anything unexpected.
Karyn isn’t a woman who would normally agree to meet a stranger for coffee, no matter what the reason. However, without internalizing or accepting it she ready to turn the corner in her life and, as it turns out, Jeff Maddox is the catalyst. Karyn hasn’t emotionally dealt with the fact that her marriage of 10 years has ended. She is resolved to the fact that her relationship with her husband has fallen apart but is trying to be very civilized about the whole thing. Karyn hasn’t made any demands. She hasn’t grieved.
After working through initial discomfort and some surliness on Jeff’s part, he and Karyn find they are comfortable conversing and enjoy each other’s company. Moreover, there is a magnetic sexual attraction and explosive chemistry. I thought these two were perfect together, while Jeff has by choice lead a pretty solitary existence he proves to be a passionate, sexually experienced man who is exactly what Karyn needs to set her leashed sexuality free. Over a short 12 hours Jeff develops respect and admiration for a woman who he finds is extremely strong and amazingly responsive. They just fit..
However, the timing is bad and Karyn has significant emotional fallout to deal with following their tryst. Jeff recognizes Karyn’s need to work out her many issues before they can pursue any sort of relationship. In an emotional scene they say goodbye, and I along with Jeff so hoped Karyn would want to see him again.
I thoroughly enjoyed Hot Text, finding it to be a clever, very sensual erotic romance. The love scenes in Hot Text are sexually explicit. Never fear, Cari Quinn does provide a special, heartwarming HEA for this hero and heroine who met under such unusual circumstances. Oh and BTW the text messages in Hot Text are full of fun innuendo and HOT!
If someone told me a week ago I would read and thoroughly enjoy a book about a marine biologist who goes to an isolated area in Northern Canada to stu...moreIf someone told me a week ago I would read and thoroughly enjoy a book about a marine biologist who goes to an isolated area in Northern Canada to study fish migration I’d likely of said...um no. I'd have been forced to eat crow however, as I found Edge of Survival to be a gripping read.
Dr. Cameran Young is a postdoctoral research fellow who along with her friend Vicki, a Ph.D. student, travel to an isolated mining town in Northern Labrador to study how building a hydroelectric dam will impact the migration of Arctic char (a type of fish). Cam is a brilliant heroine. She is determined to be successful despite the inhospitable terrain, she is also very quick and funny. The thing is, Cam is a brittle diabetic, meaning she must carefully monitor her blood sugar and inject herself with appropriate types and amounts of insulin every day. She is extremely careful about her diet and must deal with a whole host of issues that folks with this type of diabetes cope with daily. Ms. Anderson paints a realistic portrait of a woman who refuses to be defined or limited by her condition. Cam and Vicki along with a couple of other student helpers are scheduled to spend 6 weeks in the bush to gather their research. A retired coastguard icebreaker, refitted as a research vessel is to be their home.
To get around the isolated area where the migration takes place they have hired a helicopter and the pilot is one Daniel Fox, a former British SAS (Special Air Service) officer. Daniel suffers from a litany of post-traumatic symptoms secondary to the horror and aftermath of his final SAS mission. These guys are tough, elite special forces trained warriors and Daniel is struggling to cope as a civilian. His guilt and self loathing is palpable but the one thing that has kept him from spiraling completely into the gutter is flying. He is however, dealing with some significant serious issues.
Things get off to a very rocky start when Cam and Daniel are plunged into an RCMP investigation when she finds a woman brutally murdered in the washroom of the town’s bar. In addition, there are struggles at every turn, as she must deal with hostile Neanderthal roughneck miners, sabotage, poachers, and a growing attraction for the grumpy, very private helicopter pilot. Daniel tries to spurn Cam, but the feisty, diabetic doctor manages to break through the wall he has built around himself. It was very endearing to see how protective Daniel becomes when he learns about Cam’s diabetes. Cam makes him laugh and she gradually earns his respect for a variety of reasons. Edge of Survival isn’t an erotic novel, there is light sensuality and wonderful chemistry between the hero and heroine. What I loved is the progression of the relationship between two people who have faced more then their share of adversity in life, it just worked.
Secondary characters of note are Staff Sergeant Griff Kershaw, who leads the murder investigation. I really liked this guy and would love to read his story. Griff plays a pivotal role in the climax of the plot. The intriguing, curmudgeonly backwoodsman Tooly Grant, another well developed character also lept from the pages. I didn't much care for Cam’s friend and colleague Vicki, who I found to be a self centered manipulative nymphomaniac. Vicki also plays an important role as the plot advances and despite my visceral dislike of her I understood why Cam called her friend.
Edge of Survival is full of fascinating insights regarding Cameron’s research and Ms. Anderson addresses very real environmental issues that plague Northern habitats. She provided vivid descriptions of the beauty of the land and it’s wildlife inhabitants. This is an extremely suspenseful tale, readers know the killer is lurking and watching, but the identity isn’t revealed until the story’s riveting conclusion which involves a life-or-death struggle for our heroine. Whoever thinks a story concerning a woman who does fish research would be boring hasn’t read Edge of Survival! ;)
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