First of all: Love the cover! Doesn't he look like Ryan Reynolds? The beginning of the book left me just as heartbroken as Isabelle and I wasn't sure...moreFirst of all: Love the cover! Doesn't he look like Ryan Reynolds? The beginning of the book left me just as heartbroken as Isabelle and I wasn't sure how he'd redeem himself enough for me to like him. But I did! His love for his family and his people won me over as I discovered his motivation for leaving Isabelle ten years ago. Isabelle was a strong, intelligent, and capable woman who didn't let her past turn her into a complete disaster and she didn't break down in tears at the first sign of trouble. I really enjoyed the book and I highly recommend it! Available Dec. 24th, 2012!
I received the complimentary copy from the author but in no way did it influence my review. (less)
Over the last few months, I’ve read a few novellas which served only to introduce readers to characters from an upcoming book and didn’t really have a...moreOver the last few months, I’ve read a few novellas which served only to introduce readers to characters from an upcoming book and didn’t really have a complete story. This was the opposite! I really enjoy the author’s voice and loved this short story which is a prequel to the novels in the Hot Firemen series. The purpose of these novellas is to gain readers and for me, it worked. I bought the first two novels! I think fans of Kristen Higgins and Jill Shalvis (like me) will enjoy this series and I highly recommend it.(less)
This novella takes place at the same time as The Ugly Duchess. Griffin has returned from the sea. He'd run off after marrying "Poppy" who was three ye...moreThis novella takes place at the same time as The Ugly Duchess. Griffin has returned from the sea. He'd run off after marrying "Poppy" who was three years older than him and in this book, they're reacquainted after several years. I'm glad I didn't have to wait long after reading The Ugly Duchess because I really did want to know more about the pirate. It's one miscommunication after another and very humorous. I would have loved a full novel but I enjoyed the novella a lot. Definitely read it after The Ugly Duchess!
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed The Hungry Heart. The characters were both likeable and the suspense was well done. Brenda Gayle pace...moreI was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed The Hungry Heart. The characters were both likeable and the suspense was well done. Brenda Gayle paced the book so that I wasn't bored for a moment and I read the book in one day! I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series and I definitely recommend The Hungry Heart! (less)
Tiffany Reisz’s characters violate every one of the Ten Commandments and Seven Deadly Sins in her books. And if you think that makes the characters un...moreTiffany Reisz’s characters violate every one of the Ten Commandments and Seven Deadly Sins in her books. And if you think that makes the characters unlikeable, think again. I don’t know if there is another writer out there who could get you to root for a sadistic priest. I knew from The Siren I would fall in love with Sören and after reading some of Ms. Reisz’s earlier stories about Sören, Nora, and Kingsley, I began my descent. But in The Angel I truly fell in love with him. Why would I fall in love with a sadistic priest who is also a Dom and lovers with the series protagonist, Nora? Because he loves Nora as much as anyone could love another. His love is pure and unconditional. Plus, he has to be the smartest, most manipulative man in the world, and he uses his skills of manipulation for good causes. How could I not love him?
It may be my background in psychology, but I really appreciated the fact that we learned more about Sören’s and Kingsley’s younger days. It not only gave credibility to the characters, it gave them motivation. In erotica, I often find the motivation of a character lacking. Now I want to go back and reread the earlier stories about these characters. I think I may look at them differently.
What makes erotica different from romance is that erotica doesn’t necessarily have a happy-ever-after. As I’ve stated in my earlier review of The Siren, this is not a romance series. But it’s more than erotica. What is unique about this series is each book does contain a happy-ever-after. Just not for Nora. I’m not sure if the author will ever give her one. Without spoiling it, the main story of each book wraps up, but the ongoing affairs of Nora continues. It’s as though the minor characters who are blessed to know Nora and Sören get a second chance in life.
Fans of The Siren’s Wesley will get a few glimpses of him in this book. He’s Nora’s other true love. I’d love to say more about that, but I don’t want to ruin it for other readers. I’m rooting for her to end up with both Wesley and Sören because I like happy endings. But, unfortunately for me, I’m not the author.
Here’s my advice to television producers. This series and these characters would make an awesome addition to HBO. You wouldn’t even need to rewrite anything to make it sexier and more controversial! Nora is a true heroine for the twenty-first century.
I gave The Angel Five Stars. Since I enjoyed it even more than The Siren, I think it deserves more stars, but alas, that’s as high as the rating system goes. (less)
I started crying right at the beginning because when the hero and heroine start off happy, you know something will break them apart. But I was shocked...moreI started crying right at the beginning because when the hero and heroine start off happy, you know something will break them apart. But I was shocked (in a good way) at where the authors took the characters and I loved every minute of this book. James was sensitive and loving at the start and not the traditional hero for a historical romance. I fell in love with him then and there and when he transformed into an alpha male, it was even better. Theo is always beautiful, but it’s when she truly believes in herself that she turns into a real swan. Wonderful spin on The Ugly Duckling story. (less)
This was the first book of Katie Lane’s I’ve read and I was really excited when I realized that I had gotten the first three of the series from a publ...moreThis was the first book of Katie Lane’s I’ve read and I was really excited when I realized that I had gotten the first three of the series from a publishing signing. The secondary characters were really funny and I laughed throughout the book. I also cried towards the end and then I got mad because I wanted to read the next book. Luckily, I get to read the first three to hold me over until then. I didn’t have any problem following along even when the characters referred to events from previous books. It definitely can be read as a stand-alone. Brant and Elizabeth make a cute couple and I recommend it for contemporary romance readers who like rich cowboys. (less)
Let me start by saying I love Vicky Dreiling's books. In fact, I’ve reviewed a book of hers before on SpunkyBean and then I read the first two in the...moreLet me start by saying I love Vicky Dreiling's books. In fact, I’ve reviewed a book of hers before on SpunkyBean and then I read the first two in the series. So I was very eager to read anything by her, even a novella. This is an e-book only story, but frankly, it’s the first few chapters of an upcoming book. It doesn’t have an ending; it merely introduces the characters. That being said I will read it when it comes out. I’ve seen a couple other publishers do this for their authors and I don’t get it. I’d rather them call it a “sampler” or “preview chapters” rather than novella. A novella implies that it will have an ending.
I still gave it three stars because it’s well written and I’m looking forward to reading her full books. But I’m already a fan. I fear if readers pay for this novella, they’ll be disappointed and take it out on the author by not buying her future books, which would be a shame. She’s one of the best new historical authors and I definitely recommend picking up the first book in her How-To Series, How to Marry a Duke. It’s a historical romance version of the tv series, The Bachelor, and it has a much happier ending than the reality television show.
The author has a unique gift of creating beautiful imagery with words: “This time when she rose from the water, she was like a phoenix, all fire and g...moreThe author has a unique gift of creating beautiful imagery with words: “This time when she rose from the water, she was like a phoenix, all fire and glory against the backdrop of orange, yellow, and red streaking the horizon.” From that sentence alone, I understood how Reid saw Storie. Likewise, the scenery came to life for me. Plus, right from the beginning I heard all the characters speaking with a bit of a Texas twang. I’m not sure how the author accomplished it, but together, it pulled me into the story. Those looking for a love story with paranormal elements will enjoy this book. (less)
Loved it! This was one hot historical romance. It’s a sensual take on Beauty and the Beast set in England 1826. The heroine Sidonie offers herself up...moreLoved it! This was one hot historical romance. It’s a sensual take on Beauty and the Beast set in England 1826. The heroine Sidonie offers herself up to Jonas in her sister’s place because her sister has lost money she borrowed from Jonas from her gambling habit. Jonas will erase her debt if she spends a week with him. It seems Sidonie’s sister Roberta is married to Jonas’s sadistic cousin and Jonas is seeking revenge. Despite his facial scars, he doesn’t start off as a sympathetic character, but bit by bit the author shows the reader cracks in his armor. Their chemistry jumps off the page and I stayed up late in the night to finish it. I’ve added all of the authors previously books to my to-read list and I’m happy to report there will be more books with Jonas’s friends. If you are looking for a historical romance on the sensual side, look no further. I gave it five out of five spunky beans. (less)
As I said in my review of Hell on Wheels, this is a terrific new romantic suspense series by a talented author. Halfway through the first book, I was...moreAs I said in my review of Hell on Wheels, this is a terrific new romantic suspense series by a talented author. Halfway through the first book, I was addicted and couldn’t wait to read about Frank and Becky. I love the older man/younger woman stories and this one totally worked. Becky is tough and has great taste in music. You get the backstory on how the Special Ops team got together and used Becky’s motorcycle shop as its cover. Just like the first book, it had plenty of action, romance, laughs, and pop culture references and quick and witty dialogue. I pointed out the writing style reminds me of Joss Whedon’s, my personal hero. This book can be read before the first one, but you don’t want to miss Hell on Wheels.(less)
This is a first in an awesome new romantic suspense series. It’s got it all- action, romance, laughs, and plenty of pop culture references which had m...more This is a first in an awesome new romantic suspense series. It’s got it all- action, romance, laughs, and plenty of pop culture references which had me chuckling. The second book releases in September and the third book in October. I’m so glad I got all three to review at one time because I devoured each one and was left wanting more. I can’t wait for the fourth! I think, and I don’t say this lightly, the reason I loved the writing so much is it had a Joss Whedon feel to it with its fast, witty, tongue-in-cheek dialogue. At first, I found the use of multiple points-of-view in the story a bit distracting, but then I really grew to enjoy it. Nate and Allie had great chemistry and the writing was quick-paced with non-stop action. (less)
It seems like I’ve been waiting for this story forever. I loved the character of Caine. It’s always great when you feel badly for a villain and then g...moreIt seems like I’ve been waiting for this story forever. I loved the character of Caine. It’s always great when you feel badly for a villain and then get to watch his redemption. And I think Cassie was a perfect mate for him. I didn’t like when the book went to the point-of-view of another character because I wanted to stay with Caine and Cassie a bit more. Overall, I enjoyed it and I’ll keep reading the series. In my opinion, this book cannot really be read as a stand-alone. You need to have read at least some of the books in the series to know what’s going on. If you’re looking for an established series with vampires, weres, witches, demons, and French gargoyles, then I recommend picking up the first in the series, When Darkness Comes. (less)
Just like the first two in the series, this new romantic suspense series had me laughing out loud and shedding a few tears. I was a bit worried since...moreJust like the first two in the series, this new romantic suspense series had me laughing out loud and shedding a few tears. I was a bit worried since the hero of the book, Jake, wasn’t in the first two books. I thought maybe I wouldn’t be able to connect with him. I shouldn’t have doubted the author. Michelle was introduced in In Rides Trouble. She has a secret she’s kept from Jake all these years, but it’s a cool take on an old story. Each book in this series stands-alone, but you’re going to love it, so you might as well start with the first, Hell on Wheels and make your way to Rev it Up. (less)
What can’t Maya Banks write? The answer is there isn’t anything she can’t write. I’m a huge fan of her erotic romances and romantic suspense series, a...moreWhat can’t Maya Banks write? The answer is there isn’t anything she can’t write. I’m a huge fan of her erotic romances and romantic suspense series, and now I’m a huge fan of her historical romances. Eveline is a unique heroine in that she’s deaf, but she’s strong and courageous and I really liked her. Graeme is an alpha male but he’s also sweet and caring. It was a wonderful romance and I found myself smiling while I read the entire book (except for the parts when I cried). Another fabulous Maya Banks book and it’s why she’s worth a seven-figure deal. (less)
Great start to a paranormal series with all sorts of fun breeds. Kelvin is a Pookah which is similar to a shifter except they don’t actually shift. Th...moreGreat start to a paranormal series with all sorts of fun breeds. Kelvin is a Pookah which is similar to a shifter except they don’t actually shift. They contain the animalistic instincts. Specifically, Kelvin is a Razorback Pookah and possesses the spirit of a wild boar. That cracked me up! I never thought I’d find a Scottish Man with the characteristics of a pig as sexy as I did! Izel is human and a Fionn. I equate Fionn as Fae, so she’s sort of Sookie Stackhouse. The world building was well-crafted and fun. I loved all the characters and can’t wait for the series to continue. I’ve heard comparisons to Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark Series which is a huge compliment to the author, Britt Bury. I can see the resemblance but I believe this Immortal Heat series is unique and fresh. In other words, if you are a fan of Kresley Cole, you’ll enjoy this book and if you’re not, you should still try it. (less)
I really enjoyed this debut author’s Scottish historical romance. Rosalia is being abused by her parents and when she refuses to marry the abusive man...moreI really enjoyed this debut author’s Scottish historical romance. Rosalia is being abused by her parents and when she refuses to marry the abusive man they chose for her, she runs away, knowing that if she stays, either they or her future husband will kill her. Dressed as a boy, she meets the MacGregor brothers and falls in love with Ciaran. I enjoyed their romance as well as the conflict between rival clans. I’m wondering if there was a previous book about Aiden and his now wife Aisling, and if so, I’m hoping it will someday be released. I’m also looking forward to Declan’s book and hopefully, Rosalia’s childhood friend. I enjoyed the book from start to finish and loved the chemistry between Rosalia and Ciaran. (less)
Rescue my Heart is a wonderful contemporary romance about an ex-soldier with PTSD and the woman who got away. In the first two books of the Animal Mag...moreRescue my Heart is a wonderful contemporary romance about an ex-soldier with PTSD and the woman who got away. In the first two books of the Animal Magnetism series, Adam seemed like the stable one of the brothers and always gave them good advice. Apparently, he had trouble applying his advice to his own life. He pushed Holly away when they were younger and now that she’s back, he’s still trying to push her away. Holly is a great heroine because she won’t let him. I love how Jill Shalvis mixes the careers of wilderness tracking/search and rescue and animals. How can you not love a hero who loves dogs and saves lives? I’m ready for the next book!(less)
Let me start by saying I really loved this book. I couldn’t wait to read about Trey. The only thing that threw me was that the publisher decided to re...moreLet me start by saying I really loved this book. I couldn’t wait to read about Trey. The only thing that threw me was that the publisher decided to release this before Jace and Eric’s books when it was obviously intended as the last book of the series and even mentions events that haven’t happened yet. If you don’t want to read the series out of order, I’d suggest waiting a year for the next two books to come out. However, if you’re like me, you can assume they’re all going to get their happily-ever-afters, so it doesn’t matter. Reagan was an awesome character to bring Trey down. She’s talented, smart, and open-minded. Ethan doesn’t really come into play until later in the book and I had a harder time liking him but once I did, I fell in love. It’s a really well done ménage book. I’m hoping Olivia Cunning will continue to write these books utilizing the characters from Trey’s brother’s band. Highly recommended for fans of erotic romance. (less)
There were things I loved and things I didn't, but overall, I enjoyed reading it. Full review to come.
This was one of the strangest books I’ve read th...moreThere were things I loved and things I didn't, but overall, I enjoyed reading it. Full review to come.
This was one of the strangest books I’ve read this year and considering how much I read, that says a lot. The plot, while not original, was executed in highly original manner. I went back and forth between loving it and wondering what I was reading. Told in multiple points-of-view, I never got the chance to fully invest with the characters. I considered Lou and Mac to be the main characters and I liked them. But I didn’t need to learn everything from the other characters through their point-of-view. I would have preferred to learn it from scenes from Lou or Mac’s point-of-view. The sex scenes were pretty realistic for erotica. This review will post on www.spunkybean.com on August 28, 2012.(less)
I'm not a huge reader of category romance and this is definitely a category romance. It has a Harlequin feel, especially with the foreign locale. It w...moreI'm not a huge reader of category romance and this is definitely a category romance. It has a Harlequin feel, especially with the foreign locale. It was a quick and enjoyable read. This review will appear on spunkybean.com on July 9, 2012.(less)
I'm not a huge reader of category romance and this is definitely a category romance. It has a Harlequin feel, especially with the foreign locale. It w...moreI'm not a huge reader of category romance and this is definitely a category romance. It has a Harlequin feel, especially with the foreign locale. It was a quick and enjoyable read. This review will appear on spunkybean.com on July 9, 2012.(less)
I won the paperback copy and I was so exciting to discover it signed by the author! I'd previously read each story: Falling, Freestyle and Rising, Fre...moreI won the paperback copy and I was so exciting to discover it signed by the author! I'd previously read each story: Falling, Freestyle and Rising, Freestyle. They were a couple of my first forays into erotic romance and menage. I'm happy to report they're still as hot today! If you haven't read these stories, pick up this book!(less)
Victoria Dahl is one of my favorite contemporary romance writers and I like her even more these days. Grace isn’t a typical heroine. First of all, she...moreVictoria Dahl is one of my favorite contemporary romance writers and I like her even more these days. Grace isn’t a typical heroine. First of all, she has purple hair. I’ve always wanted purple hair, but it never showed up because my hair is too dark. So right off the bat, I thought Grace was cool. She’s tough with a sordid past. As for Cole, I never get tired of cowboys. Mix that cowboy with good writing, a bit of humor, and lots of sex, and I’m hooked. I thought the characters really grew throughout the story. Both of them had major baggage, but in the end, they were able confide in each other. The sex scenes were more on the explicit side which I enjoy. If you like to read tamer sex scenes, this author isn’t for you. It’s still labeled as contemporary romance, but it’s just an inch shy of erotic contemporary. (less)
I am a huge fan of The Marriage Bargain and was thrilled when it gained such popularity. The characters of Maggie and Michael were established in that...moreI am a huge fan of The Marriage Bargain and was thrilled when it gained such popularity. The characters of Maggie and Michael were established in that book, but you don’t have to read the first to enjoy The Marriage Trap. But if you did, you’ll get an update on Alexa and Nick.
Even in the first book, I loved the character of Maggie. She had such strength and compassion for her best friend and brother. In this book, we get to learn more about her flaws and her upbringing. Michael is sexy, exciting, and sweet, and an alpha male without being too overbearing. His love for his family, especially his youngest sister, turned him into a huge hero in my eyes. The book was romantic and parts were laugh out loud funny. I highly recommend it and I’m looking forward to the one! (less)
This was a companion novella to Elizabeth Hoyt’s Princes Trilogy. You don’t need to have read any of the other books to enjoy The Ice Princess. Again,...moreThis was a companion novella to Elizabeth Hoyt’s Princes Trilogy. You don’t need to have read any of the other books to enjoy The Ice Princess. Again, the author writes about two characters not typically the stars of historical romances- a captain from the British Navy and a madam. Yet it worked. For those who want a shorter read about love and second chances, this is a great book and also a good introduction to the author’s writing style. As soon as I get the chance to read them, I’ll be buying the first three books of this series.
I’ve given The Ice Princess Four Spunky Beans.(less)
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