Review: Semi-Sweet by Roisin Meaney (and CONTEST)

Semi-Sweet
by Roisin Meaney

Genre: Foodie Fiction with Romantic Elements
Publisher: Grand Central
Cost: $10.95

CONTEST: See here.

What I Liked:
First of all, I'm a sucker for anything foodie-romance related. While this isn't really a romance novel, it is definitely a love story. I would say a'la Nicholas Sparks, only it's not depressing. Also, more interesting. But I have no affinity for Nick Sparks. Also known as The Spork. He gives love stories a bad name. This book will give them a good one.

I appreciated the uncomplicated voice of this book. It's a story that could so easily be a trainwreck, because there's so much going on, but the author pulls off an engaging, complex tale. And the food. Well, like I said, I love the food. This book is one of those novels that will entertain you, but leave you with a sense that this story could as easily have happened to you. Very unlike most foodie books I've read, but still worth the read. Well-written, and couldn't have been happier with the ending if I'd tried. Love books like this!

Book Blurb:
Hannah Robinson is just about to open the doors to her new shop Cupcakes on the Corner when out of the blue her boyfriend Patrick announces that he's leaving her for another woman. Faced with starting a business on her own, Hannah begins to wonder if her life-long dream has just turned into a nightmare. So her best friend Adam sets his birthday as a deadline - seven months to make her shop a success, or walk away from it all. And as Hannah immerses herself in her new business, she soon discovers that she's too busy to think about Patrick and his now pregnant girlfriend ...or to notice an increasingly regular customer who has recently developed a sweet tooth for all things cupcake. But while Hannah is slowly piecing her life back together, family friend Alice's is falling apart. Her husband Tom's drinking is getting out of control and things are about to get a whole lot worse. As the seven-month milestone approaches, Hannah must decide her future. And while she's figuring out what's really important, it becomes clear to everyone that happiness in life, and in love, is all in the making.

CONTEST
I will be giving away two copies of this book on my foodie romance blog. Come on over and check it out!!

Review: Lois Lane Tells All

Lois Lane Tells All
by Karen Hawkins

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Pocket
Cost: $7.99

What I Liked:
I love Karen Hawkins' voice. She's got that special something. In fact, I picked this book up to read for a "killer openings" class, and ended up finishing it, a couple of hours later. She sucked me right into this story with great voice from page one. The story is great as well, and a lot of suspense elements, although I wouldn't call this a straight suspense.

The plot is intriguing, and if you're a Superman fan, you're going to love this book. But my favorite part was the hero, Mark. He's definitely the Clark Kent we've all wanted to find. Listen to this line, from page 365: "Mark rubbed his cheek against her hair, settling into the couch to engulf her deeper into his embrace. When the time was right, he'd tell her he loved her. For now, he'd just show her." ::melting:: I just adore this guy. It's worth it to read, just to get into his beautiful mind.

If you're a fan of contemporary romance, of Superman, or of the Sophie-Kinsella-type romantic comedies, you should check out this book. It won't disappoint.

Book Blurb (from Amazon.com):
New York Times bestselling author Karen Hawkins returns to Glory, North Carolina, for another delightful story of love and laughter.

She thinks she’s Lois Lane . . .Susan Collins always wanted to be a hard-hitting reporter, but there’s not much call for her talents in sleepy Glory, North Carolina. Then the Murder Mystery Club—a trio of enterprising octogenarians—decides to open their own CSI lab at the assisted-living center. And when strange "accidents" begin to happen around town, Susan senses she could be on to the news story of her dreams.

He doesn’t want to be her Superman . . .Mark Tremayne has returned to Glory to take over as CFO of The Glory Examiner. His job is to keep the newspaper profitable, which means covering the annual Baptist Church Bake-Off and selling ads for the county fair—not allowing his too-sexy-for-her-own-good reporter to hare off after a wild story that could alienate some of the townspeople.

Together . . . they’re Kryptonite.Mark’s and Susan’s viewpoints could be from different planets, but their mutual attraction is in total alignment. Despite their arguments, the indomitable redhead and the hot accountant are a sexual explosion waiting to happen. And when it does, Glory had better watch out!  

~ Rebecca Lynn

Review: Spanish Magnate, Red-Hot Revenge by Lynn Raye Harris

Spanish Magnate, Red-Hot Revenge
by Lynn Raye Harris

Genre: Contemporary Series Romance
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Cost: $3.40

What I Liked:
Well, I adored Lynn Raye Harris's first book I read (The Prince's Royal Concubine), so I naturally had high expectations for this book when I picked it up. And while I did like TPRC better (but seriously, it's like a gold medal in Harlequin romance for me) I really loved this book. This one will also be a keeper.

It helped that the heroine shared my name. Oh, and also that the hero would often say her name. That was a nice fantasy. The hero was hot, the plot was fast-moving and engaging. The characters made me want to keep reading the story. And I liked the heroine. I felt for her, I wanted her to end up with him.

Lynn Raye Harris has a great voice. I have a feeling I'm always going to enjoy her books. I'm looking forward to reading the one that's out that I still haven't read. But I'm MORE excited for her to have a new release, because based on what I've seen so far, her writing just keeps getting better and better!!

Book Blurb:
Nobody messes with Alejandro de Ramirez. He doesn't suffer fools, and certainly has no time for manipulative wantons. Rebecca Layton was both. Five years later, Alejandro's life is still in turmoil--and he's more merciless than ever. The Spanish magnate wants retribution....

Unusually, and frustratingly for Alejandro, his plan doesn't go smoothly. Surely Rebecca wasn't this alluring before. And did his body always respond in this way--with such passionate fury? This is no longer just revenge...this is red-hot and dangerous!

Review: Blue by Lou Aronica

Blue
by Lou Aronica

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy/Fiction YA
Publisher: Fiction Studio
Cost: $11.53

What I Liked:
The main character--Chris--is fantastically complex. Definitely the kind of character you'd want to spend a book with. His life, his relationship with his daughter, his problems... all fantastically complex.

I liked the fact that the book doesn't start off straight in the fantasty world. It sort of draws you into it, kinda like The Neverending Story. It's definitely a way to escape from the reality of his daughter's hard life, but it's more than that. It's the magic of creating something together that is truly unique. All writers know this. There's nothing quite like it. But this story goes one step further, into the realm of what happens when you stop telling stories and a world that exists, even when you don't want it to. It's a very interesting concept.

It's also a beautiful story.

Book Blurb:
Chris Astor is a man in his early forties who is going through the toughest stretch of his life. Not long before, Chris' world sparkled - he was doing significant work, he had a good home, and his young daughter brought him more joy than he ever could have imagined. Now, divorce and estrangement have left him confused and all too often alone.

Becky is Chris' fourteen-year-old daughter, a girl who overcame enormous challenges in her early years to become a vibrant, vital young woman. Her parents' divorce has left its mark, though, most significantly in her relationship with her father. Once, they told remarkable stories together. Now, they barely speak. Emotional detachment from Chris is not Becky's biggest concern, though.

Miea is the young queen of a fantasy land that Becky and Chris created when Becky was little - a fantasy land that has developed a life of its own. Miea knows nothing of Becky and Chris. She only knows that her beautiful kingdom - a place of remarkably varied flora, dignified and distinctive fauna, and an ecology that works in symphonic majesty - is in terrible, maybe fatal trouble.

At the most challenging junctures of their lives, Becky and Miea discover each other and Miea shares this discovery with Chris. For Becky, it is nearly inconceivable that a place she created has come into existence. For Miea, it is nearly inconceivable that a child created her land. For Chris, it is beyond inconceivable that he is again sharing something important in his daughter's life. For all of them, it as though a world of opportunity has opened up before them.

But time is not on their side. In fact, time might be running out.

Together, they need to uncover a secret. The secret to why these worlds have joined at this moment. The secret to their purpose. The secret to the future. It is a secret that, when discovered, will redefine imagination for all of them.

Review: A Chesapeake Shores Christmas by Sherryl Woods

A Chesapeake Shores Christmas
by Sherryl Woods

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Mira (Harlequin)
Cost: $8.68

What I Liked:
I hadn't ever read a Sherryl Woods book or a Chesapeake Shores romance before, but I'm quickly becoming a fan of both. From the first moment that Mick O'Brien stepped onto the pages of this book, I was hooked. I love the whole sophisticate concept--a couple of older adults working through a mid-life romance together. Beautiful. Plus, the reunited part, loved it.

This is one of those great family saga kinds of books where everyone has a part to play and everyone has a little piece of the romance. Hopefully, it also means that there will be more books in the O'Brien series. There are little promises about the characters, whom I enjoyed, having some kind of romance in their future. I look forward to reading more about Mick and Megan's family in the future. (Although, frankly, I do hope that they don't split up again and get back together... that might just be too much.) Megan wasn't my favorite heroine of all time, but Mick is definitely a fantastic hero. Sherryl Woods wrote him to be the kind of man we all hope we're married to someday. He's got his issues, but he's well worth spending an entire book with, especially if you're looking for something outside the run-of-the-mill romance novel hero.

Book Blurb:
After years apart, Mick and Megan O'Brien are finally ready to make it official…again. Most of their grown children couldn't be happier about their rekindled love and impending marriage this holiday season. Only Connor is a holdout. Driven to become a divorce attorney after what he views as his mother's abandonment of their family, Connor's not about to give his blessing to this reunion romance.

The last thing Megan wants to do is hurt her family again. After all, is she really sure she and Mick can make it this time around? And when an unexpected delivery causes chaos, it seems only a miracle can reunite this family.

Of course, it is Christmas—the season of miracles.

Read an excerpt here.

~ Rebecca Lynn

Linda Gerber on YA Contemporaries and Paranormals

I’m pleased for the opportunity to drop into Enduring Romance and talk about writing for a bit. I’m honored to be here, among fellow romantics. Kimber asked if I would discuss what inspired me to make the switch from contemporary YA to paranormal YA, and what I’ve learned along the way.

.

The strange truth is that I actually made the switch from fantasy/paranormal to contemporary to get my foot in the publishing door. I know – crazy right? I mean, take a look at any YA section in any bookstore across the country, and you’d think that paranormal would be the golden ticket. But that’s not how it worked for me. I’m a firm believer in being prepared for opportunities in whichever form they take, so although what I gravitated toward was writing paranormal, when I heard about an opportunity to write for Puffin’s Students Across the Seven Seas series, I didn’t think twice about going contemporary for a book or so.

.

One book turned into five contemporary YA novels for Puffin – two S.A.S.S. books, NOW AND ZEN and THE FINNISH LINE, and a mystery series, DEATH BY BIKINI, DEATH BY LATTE and DEATH BY DENIM. I also have a contemporary Middle Grade series in the works, LIGHTS, CAMERA, CASSIDY.

.

So, although my current release, TRANCE, takes me back to my love of the paranormal, I’m not sure you could say I’ve made a switch. I’ll still be doing contemporary, but I’m thrilled to be able to play with a little magic along the way.
.

One of the things I’ve learned in writing both is that no matter what the genre, the elements of a good romance remain the same. In both, we need strong, appealing characters, and conflict, conflict, conflict.
.
In both the paranormal and the “real” world, the heroine’s outlook is shaped by past experiences. She possesses an attitude, skill or expertise that makes her special. Conversely, she usually has a lot to learn about herself.
.
I found that the leading men share many similar traits as well. They genuinely care about the heroine, they are strong but vulnerable, and they have personal issues to overcome (which, of course, they will overcome so they can be with the heroine.)
.
The joy of contemporary romance is that it’s accessible. It’s grounded in the real world. It could happen to you.
.
The fun of paranormal romance is that anything can happen. A whole new set of possibilities and conflicts opens up with the creation of world or mythology.
.

In short, I’m thrilled for the chance to dabble in writing paranormal again, but I’m also glad I opened myself up to contemporary, because in it I’ve found another love – and another avenue for romance.
.

BIO –
.

Linda Gerber recently returned to life in the Midwest after four years in Japan, where she served as the Regional Advisor for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She currently lives and writes in Dublin, OH, blissfully ignoring her husband, four kids, and one very naughty puppy.
.
Please pop over to Linda Gerber's Website to learn more about her and her wonderful books.  Thank you, Linda!

Review: What The Heart Wants

What the Heart Wants
by Deborah Grace Staley

Genre: Contemporary (Southern) Romance
Publisher: Bell Bridge Books
Cost: $12.78

What I Liked:
What this particular Angel Ridge book had going for it that none of the others really did is a good solid plot. Something that really keeps these two characters apart, and could keep them apart for good. Of course, part of contemporary romance is just having issues and baggage keep people apart, so I don't fault anyone for doing that. But this was a great plot.

It kept me on the edge of my seat, and the pages flipping quick. If you like a little suspense (but perhaps not full-blown romantic suspense) in your romance, this is the one of the three I would suggest.

Once again, Deborah Grace Staley wrote a fantastic hero in Grady, the town sherriff. And Candi/Lark, the heroine, really was the best of the three heroines of Staley's that I've read in this series. She was the one I'd most like to befriend, if she were real.

All in all, this book had a great plot, good characters, and a satisfying ending. The romance was well-written, the setting (as usual) was spot on, and the Angel Ridge series has now come to a close. Since this was my favorite of the three books, it's definitely the best note to end on.

Book Blurb:
Candi Heart is layers of mystery in a very appealing package. A lethal combination for Sheriff Grady Wallace. With a nickname like "Candi Heart" and a plan to open a frilly lingerie and perfume shop called Heart's Desire, Lark Hensley knows she may raise some eyebrows by moving to quiet little Angel Ridge, Tennessee. She hopes no one remembers that the women in her family were once accused of being seductive witches by townsfolk, and that decades ago her moonshiner grandpa committed a deadly crime. Lark has questions she can't answer and secrets she doesn't want to share, especially with Angel Ridge Sheriff Grady Wallace, even if Grady is hard to resist.

Grady falls hard and quick for the new mystery woman in town, though he's determined to find out what she's hiding. Angel Ridge's one-woman Welcome Committee, Dixie Ferguson, has taken a liking to Candi Heart, and Dixie's instincts about newcomers are rarely wrong. But maybe not this time . . . Grady never intended to follow the Wallace family tradition of lawmen, but when his father died young, rebellious Grady grew quickly into the role of staunch town defender. Candi Heart may not have meant to bring trouble to his town, but she has. Someone does remember her family. That someone wants her to leave . . . or to die. An unknown driver tries to run her down. Her shop is broken into. Rumors begin to swirl. Suddenly Grady is caught between his duty and his heart's desire for Candi Heart. -from Amazon.com.

~ Rebecca Lynn

Review: A Home for Christmas

A Home for Christmas
by Deborah Grace Staley

Genre: Contemporary (Southern) Romance
Publisher: Bell Bridge Books
Cost: $12.78

What I Liked:
Well, now I'm all ready for Christmas to come! (Except snow... please, God, no snow.) This book was warm like hot buttered rum, and just as satisfying... and just as festive. Having recently read and reviewed Only You, which is also in this Angel Ridge Series, I was eagerly looking forward to reading the next book, and was not disappointed. It was all it promised to be.

Once again, Deborah Grace Staley has created a hero in Blake Ferguson that just makes your heart (and all your other parts) melt. His Southern accent only adds the finishing touch on a very yummy personality, and even his foibles just make you want to hold him. Or fight with him and then hold him. But the man is a gem.

I must admit that some of Janice's conflict just didn't make sense to me. I had a hard time getting my mind around why it really was they couldn't be together. But I do sometimes have those questions, mostly because I think when you find true love, why wouldn't you go after it? Then again, I have to remember that we don't all know when it's staring us in the face. Still, Janice wasn't my favorite heroine of all time. But Blake... he made up for all of it.

This is a heartwarming Christmas tale, well worth the time spent. Blake Ferguson can warm my hearth anytime. Or hang my lights. Or... well, you get the idea.

Book Blurb:
Dr. Janice Thornton has been lonely for too long, especially at Christmas. But Angel Ridge, Tennessee, the one place that holds the key to what family should be, is offering her a chance at a new life. Could she find happiness by taking over her uncle's small town practice? Local contractor and carpenter Blake Ferguson comes from a big family. He'd like to fill his rambling old Victorian with one of his own. But there's one problem. He needs a wife! When Janice shows up at his house, Blake sets a course to win her, but soon finds she's built a wall around her heart this master carpenter finds difficult to dismantle. Can the magic of an Angel Ridge Christmas bring hearts home or will old hurts create an obstacle even the town's legendary angels can't overcome? -from Amazon.com

Review: Only You

Only You
by Deborah Grace Staley

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Belle Books
Cost: $12.95 (free right now on Kindle)

What I Liked:
I adored the hero in this book. Cole Craig was everything a perfect Southern gentleman should be, plus a little rough around the edges and blue under the collar. It only makes him more attractive. I was very impressed with the way he was written. It made me want to read more of Deborah Grace Staley's books. And that's a good thing, because there are three books in this series, and I still have two left.

I did enjoy the heroine, as well, and saw a bit of myself in her. She's an intellectual, has worked her whole life to accomplish her goals, and is now faced with obstacles that are more than just professional. The small town of Angel Ridge could easily have been any small town in the South, or the North for that matter. It was very familiar and comforting while simultaneously being frustrating. I loved that.

Deborah Grace Staley has been compared to Debbie Macomber. And while I'm not much of a Macomber fan, I would definitely keep reading the books in this series. So that's a good sign for me. Looking forward to seeing what happens next!

Book Blurb:
A charming romance about the lives and loves of people in a small Tennessee town. In the tradition of Debbie Macomber. "Hey, ya'll. Dixie Ferguson here. I run Ferguson's Diner in Angel Ridge, Tennessee. Population three hundred forty-five. It's a picturesque town in the valley of the Little Tennessee River, established in 1785. In the early days, its first families--the McKays, the Wallaces, the Houstons, the Joneses, and, of course, the Craigs--staked their claims on hundreds of acres of the richest bottom land anyone had ever seen. After all the years I've spent behind the counter at Ferguson's, I could probably tell ya'll a story about near everyone in town. But we only have so much time, so I'll narrow it down to just two for now. This is a story about coming home. It's also a story about acceptin' folks for who they are. You could say it's a story about Josie Allen, a librarian, and Cole Craig, a handyman, but I say it's a story about finding love where you'd least expect to."

~Rebecca Lynn

Review: His Forever Love

His Forever Love
by Missy Tippens

Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Series Romance
Publisher: Harlequin (Steeple Hill)
Cost: $4.12

What I Liked:
I really enjoy Missy Tippens' voice. It's very conversational and accessible. Her storytelling drew me in to this story right away. Of course, I've read a lot of Steeple Hill Love Inspired books, now, and this is definitely one of my favorites. I love the Southern small town setting, and the two main characters. Especially the hero. Love the whole sexy, brainy guy angle. That's definitely something new for me in a romance novel.

I really like the second-chances stories, and this is definitely a great one. The hero and heroine don't seem perfectly matched from the start, which I also like. They sort of evolve into each other--even though you know, of course, because it's a romance novel, that they'll end up together. But the things that keep them apart feel real, and when they do get together (I hope I'm not ruining the surprise), it's satisfying.

I've never read a book by Missy Tippins before, but this definitely won't be my last. She's definitely got the best of what is great about Love Inspired books. Her voice has an ease to it, her characters are engaging, and the story is satisfying. If you like Love Inspired books, I recommend this great love story.

Book Blurb:
In Magnolia, Georgia, local legend says that a couple who holds hands around the "forever" tree will have an unending love. Even so, Bill Wellington held Lindsay Jones's hands around that tree years ago...and then left her behind. He chose the big city, and now he wants to bring his grandmother there. But to his amazement, he finds that Granny has a boyfriend--and a vibrant life. A life that includes Lindsay, Granny's caregiver. Bill never thought he'd want to come home, yet Magnolia clearly has its charms. As does Lindsay, who makes him long for a second chance at forever love.

~ Rebecca Lynn

Review: The Perfect Love Song

The Perfect Love Song
by Patti Callahan Henry

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Vanguard Press
Cost: $10.85

What I Liked:
Having never read a Patti Callahan Henry book before, I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book. The reviews I read were mixed. It seemed to be a book that you either hated or loved. I'm please to say that I came down somewhere in the middle.

I enjoyed Patti Callahan Henry's lyrical voice, which will likely make me pick up others of her books. I really thoroughly enjoyed Charlotte, the heroine of the book, and Kara, the secondary heroine. Both were endearing, patient, and loving. Charlotte's story was bittersweet, of course, though she came to a satisfying end.

But Jimmy... Oh, Jimmy. And I don't say that in the adoring, fangirl voice of Thoroughly Modern Millie. More like the frustrated, disappointed voice of a parent with a misbehaving child. One you want so desperately to see make the right choice, yet who continues to turn away from everything he thought he loved in search of something unattainable. He was only a "hero" in that he was the main character of the book. Even the end did not redeem Jimmy for me, because I didn't feel like he really learned his lesson.

Granted, it wasn't my story. And I think at least the author felt like she brought him to a satisfying end. It was good to read her note in the back about why she wrote this book. I always like to hear from the authors what they attempted to "say" in their books. What the intended message was. I like to see if that's what really happened or not. In this case, I think part of her message connected, and part of it did not.

But regardless of where I fell on liking or not liking this book, I really enjoyed the writing. I will pick up another Patti Callahan Henry book, because I think she's a good writer. And I want to get a chance to see what her other books are like. For now, I'm happy to leave Jimmy behind, but part of Charlotte will stay with me forever.

Book Blurb:
Jimmy Sullivan has been living on the road with his brother, Jack, and his band The Unknown Souls. Without a place to call home, Jimmy and Jack lead a nomadic life filled with music and anonymous cities. When they return to a place Jimmy never wants to see again—their old hometown of Seaboro, South Carolina—he falls in love with Charlotte Carrington.

With his soul now filled with hope, Jimmy writes his first love song. When he performs it at a holiday concert to a standing ovation, the lyrics are dubbed the “Perfect Love Song,” so much so that Jimmy finds himself going on tour with famous country music stars, catapulted into a world where the trappings of fame and fortune reign supreme.

All too soon, the hope that had once inspired Jimmy to write such beautiful, genuine lyrics is overshadowed by what the song can do for him and his career. In his thirst for recognition, he agrees to miss Jack’s wedding in Ireland to sing at a Christmas Eve concert. And his ties to Charlotte seem to be ever so quickly slipping away.

Alone in New York City on Christmas Eve, Jimmy finally sees—with the help of a Christmas miracle or two—that his material gains are nothing compared to love, that he is losing all that really matters in his life. Is it too late to find his way to Ireland, to his brother, and to love?

Review: The Heat is On by Jill Shalvis

The Heat is On
by Jill Shalvis

Genre: Sensual Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Harlequin Blaze
Cost: $5.12

What I Liked:
First, I have to say that my friends have been telling me to read Jill Shalvis ever since I sat next to her at the RWA PRO luncheon that I won with HelenKay Dimon (who is also amazing!). I picked up her book at the Harlequin booksigning, and am just now getting to it in my TBR pile. But I wish I would have taken the time to read it at Nationals, because I so would have liked to have had the chance to tell her to her face what an amazing writer she is, and how much I liked her book.

I have been enjoying my trek through Harlequin Blaze land quite a bit, but I must say that this is by far my favorite of them all. Jill Shalvis writes with a quick wit that is so natural to her characters, it feels like they are real people. Her heroine is one of the few (in any romance novel) that I can say I would honestly like to get to know as a friend. Of course, being that I also write foodie romance, the whole pastry chef angle was right up my alley, and I found myself more than once wanting to go down to my local bakery to pick up a fresh croissant.

But where Jill Shalvis really sparkles is in writing romantic tension. She is truly a master. Her characters ooze, and talk about, and experience, and laugh at (and did I mention OOZE) sexual tension. From the absolute first line until the last. And what's amazing is that even though they've already had sex, they still manage to keep that tension alive. It was truly a pleasure to read.

I am now officially a Jill Shalvis fan, because if (as my friends insist) the rest of her books are as good as this one, I need to read them right now. Additionally, I hope she keeps up this American Heroes line and continues to write about some of Jacob's friends... of course, I have my preferences, but I'm sure whatever she comes up with will be infinitely better than anything I could imagine. Jill Shalvis, my hat goes off to you. You are a warm, kind person, and you write hot, smexy books! There isn't more crackerjack combo!

~Rebecca Lynn

Book Blurb:
Oh, dear. Bella Manchelli is so not having a good day. First, she's deliciously exhausted from last night's sizzling one-night stand. Second, there's a (gulp) dead body at her back door. Third...um, that scrumptious one-nighter is at her front door... and he's wearing a badge!
Police Officer Jacob Madden is all about duty. Until he shows up looking for a homicide...and runs right into last night's slice of sexy heaven! Damn, he just can't think straight when he's around Bella. All he wants to do is lick her up one side and down the other....

Can duty and smoking-hot sex blend for a while? Definitely! Until Jacob discovers that several of the guys Bella's dated have turned up dead. Jacob loves being around Bella. But is he ready to be used as target practice?

Review: Star of His Heart by Brenda Jackson

Star of His Heart
by Brenda Jackson

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Harlequin (Kimani)
Cost: $6.25

What I Liked:
Holy moly, this woman can write a love scene! Not even just a pretty but mechanical sex scene (as the pros say, "insert tab A in slot B"). No. A *love* scene. You read the chemistry between Ethan and Rachel, and you can feel it for yourself. Wow.

I tend to like my prose to move pretty quickly, and it took me a little bit to get into this book, but man-o-man, once I did, it was very well worth it.

I have to say, this has happened to me several times over the last few months. I've started reading a book with a slower beginning than I prefer, and thought seriously about putting it down after about two chapters. Instead, I stuck through it and WOW, was it worth it. It's starting to make me question my own taste. These books that I "reluctantly" keep reading end up eventually blowing me away. Like this one did. The characters, I just fall in love with and I'm so interested in. I think I'm learning to give authors a little more grace than I used to. Because I've had some great experiences when I "stuck with it" after not being wowed by the opening.

I had heard, of Brenda Jackson, that she had a reputation for writing HAWT heroes, and this time "they" weren't kidding. Ethan was a super hot hero with a heart of gold. I was so in love with him by the end of the book, I kept thinking Accio Ethan. He did not come. :-) But it would have been great if he had, because he was an intriguing, complex, interesting, compassionate hero. Loved it.

Book Blurb:

Drop-dead-gorgeous Ethan Chambers loves his life as Hollywood's most eligible - and elusive - bachelor. Plus, the talented actor has just gotten an offer he can't refuse: a starring role on TV's hit medical drama. But it's the show's sultry makeup and wardrobe director who's got his pulse racing - and making him think twice about staying single.

Getting the gig on Paging the Doctor has thrust Rachel Wellesley into the unwelcome glare of the spotlight. She wants to paint the story, not be the story. But when Rachel starts falling for the show's sinfully sexy star, she knows it's time to get her own heart checked. But how can she give up these passionate nights in Ethan's arms? Now, as the cameras roll and her creative vision comes to life, is Rachel finally ready for her close-up - with the man of her dreams?

Review: Summer Brides Anthology

Summer Brides Anthology
by Susan Mallery, Sherryl Woods, and Susan Wiggs

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Harlequin
Cost: $4.79

What I Liked:
I loved every one of these stories. It's obvious that these women are fantastic writers. This was another one of my intended-to-read-a-few-pages experiences, only worse, becuase I would start one novella intending to read a few pages, then start the next intending to just see what the story was like, then start the third thinking I would just check it out. Yeah, that worked out into me spending the afternoon reading about brides, weddings, and love stories. But it was a great afternoon.

As I said, all three were really well-written, well-plotted, tight, and interesting. And satisfying, of course. But I definitely had a favorite.

The last of the stories, Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery was, in my opinion, the best. And it's saying something to be the best of three greats. But I really connected with this heroine. Loved the hero, of course, but I almost always love the hero. It's when I really love the heroine that I stand up and take notice in a book. Susan Mallery's voice is intoxicating. I could actually feel myself getting sucked in to her storytelling. I was actually disappointed when the story ended, because it was too quick. I could easily have followed this story for an entire novel. Fantastic.

All-in-all, I would rec any of these books. Great summer (or fall... or anytime) reads.

Book Blurb:
Three happily-ever-afters from three of your favorite authors
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
During her own bridal shower, Isabel Wharton is whisked away by past love Dan Black Horse to his retreat in the Cascade range. But returning to her Native roots, and Dan's loving arms, is harder than she ever imagined.

A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
With her vacation plans foiled, Karyn Chambers realizes that her long-awaited escape must give way to staying at home in San Francisco. Little does she know her Prince Charming is right in her own backyard.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
When Katie McCormick finds out that her sister is marrying her ex, she finally agrees to a setup for the big day. To her surprise, Jackson is a catch. But when wedding catastrophe ensues, will their sparks fizzle or ignite into flames?

~Review by Rebecca Lynn

Review: Maybe This Time by Jennifer Cruise

Maybe This Time
by Jennifer Cruise

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Release Date: August 31, 2010
Price: $13.49 ($11.99 for Kindle)

What I Liked:
I have been a Jennifer Cruise fan since I first read Bet Me years and years ago. Her voice is witty and charming, and she always manages to write with a twist I don't see coming.

This book did not disappoint. In fact, I can safely say if you enjoyed Bet Me, you will love this book. There's a little bit of Minerva in Andromeda. (First of all, gotta give kudos to a woman who names her heroines like that, eh?) And there's a little bit of Cal in North Archer. (Love that name, too.) I am in love with North Archer, but I can also see why Andie left him the first time. I think that's the best kind of writing, when you're treating a subject like this. There's always got to be something that completely keeps them apart that feels real. That was well done.

I definitely enjoyed the plot and the characters, but what you read Jenny Cruise for is her voice. She's got a voice unlike any other. When she writes a line like "We've got a nympho ghost, and it looks like she hijacked your body and made the rounds", I just stop and marvel. She manages to say exactly what I'm thinking, but put it in words that I never would have found. This was a laugh-out-loud book, but it also had a poignancy that was heart-tugging at times and heart-breaking at others.

All in all, I thought this was a beautifully-written, engaging book. One that I will definitely be reading again.

Book Blurb:
Andie Miller is ready to move on in life. She wants to marry her fiancé and leave behind everything in her past, especially her ex-husband, North Archer. But when Andie tries to gain closure with him, he asks one final favor of her before they go their separate ways forever. A very distant cousin of his has died and left North as the guardian of two orphans who have driven out three nannies already, and things are getting worse. He needs a very special person to take care of the situation and he knows Andie can handle anything.

When Andie meets the two children she quickly realizes things are much worse than she feared. The place is a mess, the children, Carter and Alice, aren’t your average delinquents, and the creepy old house where they live is being run by the worst housekeeper since Mrs. Danvers. What’s worse, Andie’s fiancé thinks this is all a plan by North to get Andie back, and he may be right. Andie’s dreams have been haunted by North since she arrived at the old house. And that’s not the only haunting.

What follows is a hilarious adventure in exorcism, including a self-doubting parapsychologist, an annoyed medium, her Tarot-card reading mother, an avenging ex-mother-inlaw, and, of course, her jealous fiancé. And just when she thinks things couldn’t get more complicated, North shows up on the doorstep making her wonder if maybe this time things could be different between them.

If Andie can just get rid of all the guests and ghosts, she’s pretty sure she can save the kids, and herself, from the past. But fate might just have another thing in mind…

Review: Her Reluctant Bodyguard by Jennette Green

Her Reluctant Bodyguard
by Jennette Green

Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance
Publisher: Diamond Press
Cost: $3.99 for Kindle

What I Liked:
When I received a copy of "Her Reluctant Bodyguard" to review, I was skeptical. In my experience, contemporary Christian romance can be overly saccharine, with an extreme evangelical bent that often supersedes any real artistry in the romantic relationship. But after reading only the first few pages of the book, I knew this book was going to be different.

I know it's tempting, when you see books with rave reviews, to assume that it's the author's friend trying to drum up support. In fact, I've accused other authors of the same thing when the book didn't live up to the hype in reviews and on Amazon. But let me tell you. Seriously. This book is the real thing. In fact, when I finished the book, I immediately thought, this book could easily have been released as a major single title with a big NY house. The quality of writing is stellar, the character development is reasonable and engaging, the story is touching, and the resolution is satisfying.

And to say a word about the Christian element, I have to give Jennette Green the highest praise. I've been hoping to find a Christian novel to read that doesn't shy away from the reality of life. When you're a woman/man in your late twenties who is still unmarried, chances are, you're going to struggle a little bit more with your past and past relationships than when you're a fresh young thing in college, meeting the wo/man of your dreams. It's a different experience, both from a spiritual perspective, and a physical/emotional one. She treated this story beautifully, along with being realistic about the physical and emotional attraction between two people and how that manifests.

After I read the book the first time and raved about it to everyone in a viable wireless radius, I gave it some time to sink in to my psyche, and then I read it again, just to make sure that the first time wasn't a fluke. It wasn't. The writing and the story and the reality were really as good as I thought they were. This is a book that will go on my favorites shelf. I plan to buy copies of it to give out to my friends. In fact, after receiving a copy to review, I've already bought the paperback for myself, so I can literally keep it on my shelf of favorite books.

Really, as a book reviewer, I rarely say "you have to buy this book". But I'm going to say it. If you've come here, you're obviously looking for a romance that will speak to your heart, through real characters who have real struggles. If you've also come here looking for some project that could treat the Christian religion and sexual attraction with equal dignity and reality (or for a good "edgy Christian romance"), you've found it in this book. I don't get any kind of profit from saying this. All I get is the satisfaction of knowing that I get to promote an author who really deserves it. I sincerely hope that you enjoy it as much as I did. If you do read it, please let the author know that you found it here. And please let us know that you enjoyed it. I look forward to hearing from you!

Book Blurb:
Alexa's dream job becomes a threat to her life...

Successful biographer Alexa Kaplan never expected to meet her favorite pop star on the Today Show set. When Colin asks her to write his biography and tour with him in Europe , she's thrilled. It all seems like a fairy tale come true—until she begins to receive death threats.

To her dismay, Colin puts her under the 24/7 protection of his chief bodyguard, Jamison Constanzo—a man with whom she’s clashed from day one. If only she could spend more time with her perfect man, Colin, rather than spending all of her days with this black-hearted thorn in her side! Alexa struggles to control her flip attitude toward Jamison. Why does opening up her heart to him feel almost as dangerous as dealing with the stalker’s threats? But when the killer strikes, Jamison is the only one she can turn to…

An excerpt is available at the author's website, and the first chapter is available to read here.

Reviewed by Rebecca Lynn.

Review: Shades of Morning by Marlo Schalesky

Shades of Morning
by Marlo Schalesky

Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance
Publisher: Multnomah Books
Cost: $10.07 on Amazon

What I Liked:
The main characeter (heroine) in this book was really well-written. In fact, from the first page of her voice, I thought, this is going to be a great book, and I wasn't disappointed. The woman that Marlo Schalesky creates to anchor her novel in is a sweet but jaded woman, wounded by life, haunted by her past, and trying desperately to ignore the call of her own heart.

But she faces (and has faced) real struggles. This isn't some soft, emotional book with no real-life resonance. It's full of poignancy and heartbreak, as much as it is full of hope and love. It shows the hard side of life, and the hopeful side of regrets. I really enjoyed the writing, I loved the hero, and I thought the young man who came into the heroine's life after the death of her sister was absolutely riveting. All in all, this was a great book, and I look forward to reading more of Marlo Schalesky's work, if it's all like Shades of Morning.

Book Blurb:
Slips of paper, notes of regret. And a boy who sees through it all.

Marnie has her life just where she wants it. At least that’s what she tells herself – her past is hidden, her regrets locked tightly in a box on her shelf, and her bookstore and coffeeshop business is booming.

No one knows what she’s done, who she’s been. That is, until the man she once loved finds her again and brings startling news – she’s now the guardian of her 15-year-old nephew, a boy she never knew existed.

To make matters worse, when the boy arrives, she discovers he has Down syndrome. The past collides with the present, the box of regrets is exposed, and Marnie’s world shattered and rebuilt through the love of one special boy who makes all things new.
(from the author's website)

Review: The Prince's Royal Concubine by Lynn Raye Harris

The Prince's Royal Concubine
by Lynn Raye Harris

Genre: Series Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Price: $4.12

What I Liked:
Okay, somehow, I've been on a Harlequin kick lately. But I don't really mean to review this many HQs in a row. It's just that I've read two really great ones lately. The Jillian Hart book that I reviewed last week. And this one.

This book was... fantastic is the only word I can come up with. I've read enough marginal books from Harlequin that I'm always skeptical. I've never read a really bad book from Harlequin, so I know it'll always be at least a decent experience, but a lot of them are sort of forgettable--in my opinion, anyway. I will never, ever forget this book. I know that it was melodramatic. I always expect this, even when I write romance myself. (Haha! Real, though.) I knew it was probably not a story that really happened. Or would ever happen.

But it was smokin. Sm-ok-in. The girl was a very interesting character. The hero was hot and deep. And, my favorite, the wounded hero. Fantastic. I would give it five stars, but I didn't like the ending very much. It sort of fizzled after a fantastic 85% of the narrative. Still, it's going in my keeper pile. The ending wasn't bad. Just not very fulfilling. Still. The hero made it all worthwhile. And the love story was very engaging. A very good book. I'm gonna have to read more of these Presents books now. I had a bad taste in my mouth after the last two, but this one renewed my interest in this line. Would also like to read more of Lynn Raye Harris's writing. Very good.

Book Blurb:
Two glittering royal houses…

Prince Cristiano di Savaré hunts his prey by ruthless means. Tonight’s pickings…Antonella Romanelli, crown princess of a rival country and part of a dynasty he has every reason to despise…

…one majestic seduction

Antonella is rocked by Cristiano’s unexpected magnetism. But there’s ice in his wolfish smile… She’s far from the promiscuous, spoiled socialite he believes her to be, but Cristiano is here to persuade her into compliance. If bedding her is what it takes, then it will make his mission all the more pleasurable…

Review: Dangerous by Diana Palmer

Dangerous
by Diana Palmer

Genre: Contemporary Romance (Western)
Release Date: May 25, 2010
Publisher: HQN Books
Price: $14.58

What I Liked:
I just adored this hero. I am a sucker for the wounded, tragic hero. So I loved this guy. He's sarcastic (and very funny), protective, dark and (surprise) dangerous. But not as dangerous as what is about to happen to them.

And that is a great adventure.

I've never been a big fan of western romances. In fact, I generally steer clear of anything with a cowboy hat/boot or a cactus on the front. But I just read BJ Daniels' recent release. And I read this Diana Palmer book, and I might just be a cowboy convert.

I thought the plot was interesting, the characters were engaing, the writing was good, there was plenty of humor, and the ending was satisfying. All in all, I'd say a great read. If you're interested in Western romances (not historical, but alive in today's world), I'd definitely check this out. Also, if you like contemporary romances (but not Westerns), it's not so cowboy-focused that you won't still enjoy it. I'll be interested to hear, if you've read this or if you buy it and read it, what you think of it.

Book Blurb:
Tall, lean and headstrong, FBI agent Kilraven lives by his own rules. And one of those rules includes keeping his hands off Jacobsville's resident sweetheart, Winnie Sinclair, no matter the temptation. Shy and innocent, Winnie couldn't handle a man like him--a merciless man with a haunted past. And this small town may hold not only the woman he fights to resist, but the answers to a cold case that is very personal to Kilraven.

Winnie has had her own share of sorrow and senses Kilraven's pain. Even though she tries to deny it, the gentle 911 operator feels a connection with the darkly handsome agent. When he makes the disturbing discovery that her family's unsavory past might have a bearing in his case, Winnie is determined to help him crack it... and the ice around his heart.

As they combine forces in a dangerous investigation, the stakes rise ever higher. WInnie's life is on the line, and she'll need Kilraven more than ever. But if they are to have a future together, her ruthless Texan will need to confront his past and risk it all for their love.

Review: The Journey Home by Michael Baron

The Journey Home
by Michael Baron

Publisher: The Story Plant
Release: May 2010
Price: $5.99 (Kindle: $4.79)

What I Liked:
Any book that has cooking as a major part of the relational story is such a huge hit with me, so I loved that. I enjoyed the fact that the food was part of reconciliation and also that it could be non-sexual and still engage all the senses. I really appreciated this. He writes about food like someone who knows it well, like an old friend.

The storyline of this book is very engaging, and had me hooked from the beginning (which is good, because I felt like the beginning of the book was weak... in fact, if I hadn't read the back and decided I was going to love it, I may not have stuck through the entire book). Very Nicholas Sparks-esque in the best sense of that comparison. The characters were engaging and the story poignant. Michael Baron, writing under a pseudonym, has now finished three (soon to be four) books that are being compared to Sparks' works, and I must admit, at first, I was skeptical. But I can definitely see the basis for the comparison. Equal parts of sadness and hope. I think this is an interesting book that a multitude of people could enjoy.

Overall, Baron is not quite the same caliber writer as Sparks. (Not to mention the fact that there are typos on the back cover of the book... not his fault, but still, fail.) But... and this is a big But, I was definitely engaged in the story, and I thought the story arc and the ending were both well-done. Plus, I'm just a sucker for a foodie story. :-) I'm interested to read some of Baron's other books. He has another coming out in the fall that looks very interesting. I think I'll read more before making a sound judgment. This book was a good read.

Book Blurb:
Joseph, a man in his late thirties, awakens disoriented and uneasy in a place he doesn't recognize. He sets out on a journey to find his home with no sense of where he's going and only the precious, indelible vision of the woman he loves to guide him.

Antoinette is an elderly woman in an assisted living facility who has retreated inside her head. There, her body and mind haven't betrayed her. There, she's a young newlywed with a husband who dotes on her and an entire life of dreams to live. There, she is truly home.

Warren, Antoinette's son, is a man in his early forties going through the toughest year of his life. With far too much time on his hands, he decides to try to recreate his memories of home by attempting to cook his mother's greatest dishes and eating them with her.

Joseph, Antoinette, and Warren are three people on different searches for home. How they connect with each other at this critical stage in their lives, is the foundation for the kind of profound and deeply moving story we'e come to expect from Michael Baron. (from the back of the book)