As you may (or may not) know, I pledged to read 52 books in 2010. I seriously underestimated my reading urges - I ended up reading 81, that I kept track of. There's a few e-books that didn't make the list and a few re-reads (other than the first six Black Dagger Brotherhood books) that I forgot to keep track of as well.
Here, in all it's glory, is my list of Books I Read in 2010. I even alphabetized it by author. :-)
1. The Sugar Queen - Sarah Addison Allen
2. The Vampire's Kiss - Vivi Anna
3. Immortal Sins - Amanda Ashley
4. Come Hell or High Water - Michelle Bardsley
5. Over My Dead Body - Michelle Bardsley
6. Wait Till Your Vampire Gets Home - Michelle Bardsley
7. One Winter's Night - Lori Borrill
8. Alaskan Renegade - Kate Bridges
9. All Hallows Blood - Raven Corinn Carluk
10. Elphame's Choice - P.C. Cast
11. Tempest - Jamie DeBree
12. Zombie Moon - Lori Devoti
13. Sexy Beast II - Kate Douglas, Noelle Mack, Kathleen Dante
14. Sexy Beast V – Kate Douglas, Vonna Harper, Crystal Jordan
15. Wolf Tales – Kate Douglas
16. Wolf Tales IV – Kate Douglas
17. Abalone Summer – John Dowd
18. Blood Noir - Laurell K. Hamilton
19. Midnight Moon – Lori Handeland
20. Definitely Dead – Charlaine Harris
21. Dead in the Family – Charlaine Harris
22. Dead and Gone – Charlaine Harris
23. From Dead to Worse - Charlaine Harris
24. Living Dead in Dallas – Charlaine Harris
25. Dead as a Doornail – Charlaine Harris
26. Dead to the World - Charlaine Harris
27. Club Dead - Charlaine Harris
28. Dead until Dark - Charlaine Harris
29. All Together Dead - Charlaine Harris
30. Stetsons, Spring & Wedding Rings - Jillian Hart, Judith Stacy, Stacey Kayne
31. Mail-Order Marriages - Jillian Hart, Carolyn Davidson, Kate Bridges
32. It Must Have Been the Mistletoe – Kate Hoffmann, Rhonda Nelson, Tawny Weber
33. Fariyville - Emma Holly
34. Strange Attractions - Emma Holly
35. Blazing Bedtime Stories Volume IV - Samantha Hunter, Kimberly Raye
36. Make Your Move - Samantha Hunter
37. Divine Fantasy – Melanie Jackson
38. Baby Bling – Elle James
39. Last of the Ravens - Linda Winstead Jones
40. A Sordid Situation – Vivian Kees
41. Master of Fire - Angela Knight
42. The Hunted - Anna Leondard
43. In the Company of Vampires - Katie MacAlister
44. A Man For All Seasons - Heather MacAllister
45. Country Brides - Debbie Macomber
46. Twenty Wishes - Debbie Macomber
47. A Natural Father – Sarah Mayberry
48. The PMS Outlaws - Sharyn McCrumb
49. The Adversary - Lindsay McKenna
50. Reunion - Lindsay McKenna
51. Breaking Dawn - Stephanie Meyers
52. Twilight - Stephanie Meyers
53. Eclipse - Stephanie Meyers
54. New Moon - Stephanie Meyers
55. Montana Creeds: Tyler - Linda Lael Miller
56. The Time Traveller's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
57. Belong to the Night - Sherrill Quinn, Shelly Laurenston, Cynthia Eden
58. Under Wraps - Joanne Rock
59. The Renegade Hunter - Lynsay Sands
60. Bitten by Cupid - Lynsay Sands, Pamela Palmer, Jaime Rush
61. Hungry For You - Lynsay Sands
62. Born to Bite - Lynsay Sands
63. Free Pass - Elizabeth Scott
64. A Reaper's Tale: the Undecided - Adam Slade
65. Eat Prey Love - Kerrelyn Sparks
66. Forbidden Nights With a Vampire - Kerrelyn Sparks
67. Secret Life of a Vampire - Kerrelyn Sparks
68. The Vampire and the Virgin – Kerryln Sparks
69. Mona Lisa Darkening - Sunny
70. Mona Lisa Craving - Sunny
71. The Mammoth Book of Time Travel Romance - Trisha Telep
72. Lover Avenged - J.R. Ward
73. Lover Revealed - J.R. Ward
74. Lover Mine - J.R. Ward
75. Dark Lover - J.R. Ward
76. Lover Awakened - J.R. Ward
77. Lover Unbound - J.R. Ward
78. Lover Enshrined - J.R. Ward
79. Lover Eternal - J.R. Ward
80. The Accidental Countess - Michelle Willingham
81. Blood Games - Chelsea Quinn Yarbro
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
59. Elphame’s Choice
By P.C. Cast
Though most girls believe they are different, Elphame knows she is. Odd. Strange. Unique. No one in Partholon has her abilities—or her connection to their goddess. And she has a destiny she is about to discover….
A restlessness has infused her, leading her to the other side of her country. There, the remnants of the evil war still linger. Will Elphame be able to redeem both her country and her soul mate, a survivor of that war? The choice she makes now may bring disaster—or a future in which she may never again be alone.
Though most girls believe they are different, Elphame knows she is. Odd. Strange. Unique. No one in Partholon has her abilities—or her connection to their goddess. And she has a destiny she is about to discover….
A restlessness has infused her, leading her to the other side of her country. There, the remnants of the evil war still linger. Will Elphame be able to redeem both her country and her soul mate, a survivor of that war? The choice she makes now may bring disaster—or a future in which she may never again be alone.
58. Make Your Move
By Samantha Hunter (Harlequin Blaze)
Jodie Patterson’s posh bakery is all about satisfying cravings. Her signature aphrodisiac cookies have been flying off the shelves . . . and giving Jodie some delicious ideas of her own.
Behind his owlish glasses, Jodie’s business partner, Dr. Dan Ellison, is the male equivalent of the Naughty Professor. Jodie is more than ready to indulge her fantasies with this wolf-in-geek’s-clothing as long as they set some ground rules: sex is sex, business is business and nothing will change. Yeah, right! After that first addictive kiss, it’s time to see if they can really satisfy each other’s appetites . . .
Jodie Patterson’s posh bakery is all about satisfying cravings. Her signature aphrodisiac cookies have been flying off the shelves . . . and giving Jodie some delicious ideas of her own.
Behind his owlish glasses, Jodie’s business partner, Dr. Dan Ellison, is the male equivalent of the Naughty Professor. Jodie is more than ready to indulge her fantasies with this wolf-in-geek’s-clothing as long as they set some ground rules: sex is sex, business is business and nothing will change. Yeah, right! After that first addictive kiss, it’s time to see if they can really satisfy each other’s appetites . . .
57. Mail-Order Marriages
Harlequin Historical Western
Rocky Mountain Wedding by Jillian Hart
Melody Pennington fled to Montana for a new start as a mail-order bride. Gabe Brooks, handsome older brother to the man she was supposed to marry, helps her settle in. But what Melody doesn’t expect is to fall for the rugged, closed-off lawman who swears he doesn’t believe in love!
Married in Missouri by Carolyn Davidson
Lucas Harrison needs a mother for his sons. He’s not looking for love, but he expects his wife to act like one—in every sense of the word! Elizabeth has always felt tall and awkward, but Lucas towers over her. He’s strong as a bull, gentle as a lamb, and Elizabeth’s heart soon begins to melt . . .
Her Alaskan Groom by Kate Bridges
Newly trained midwife Sophie Grant had hoped marrying respectable John Colburne would be easy as pie. But he’s tough, stubborn and cynical—except in bed with her at night! How can Sophie turn her passionate nighttime lover into a daytime husband who isn’t afraid to show he loves his mail-order bride?
Rocky Mountain Wedding by Jillian Hart
Melody Pennington fled to Montana for a new start as a mail-order bride. Gabe Brooks, handsome older brother to the man she was supposed to marry, helps her settle in. But what Melody doesn’t expect is to fall for the rugged, closed-off lawman who swears he doesn’t believe in love!
Married in Missouri by Carolyn Davidson
Lucas Harrison needs a mother for his sons. He’s not looking for love, but he expects his wife to act like one—in every sense of the word! Elizabeth has always felt tall and awkward, but Lucas towers over her. He’s strong as a bull, gentle as a lamb, and Elizabeth’s heart soon begins to melt . . .
Her Alaskan Groom by Kate Bridges
Newly trained midwife Sophie Grant had hoped marrying respectable John Colburne would be easy as pie. But he’s tough, stubborn and cynical—except in bed with her at night! How can Sophie turn her passionate nighttime lover into a daytime husband who isn’t afraid to show he loves his mail-order bride?
56. The Adversary
By Lindsay McKenna (Silhouette Nocturne)
Colt Black has one enemy: Yellow Teeth—a Skin Walker who can transform into half coyote, half man. And he wants Colt dead. As a medicine man, Colt believes in dreams. So when he dreams of a mysterious woman who asks him to meet her, he goes. What he doesn’t expect is a magnetic passion that could make him vulnerable to his foe . . .
After prophetic dreams, Shelly Godwin is searching for an emerald sphere. Her visions tell her she needs Colt’s help. Trusting men doesn’t come easily for Shelly. Yet she can’t resist the desire Colt ignites in her. And when danger surrounds them, she must rely on Colt to protect her—and save their future.
Colt Black has one enemy: Yellow Teeth—a Skin Walker who can transform into half coyote, half man. And he wants Colt dead. As a medicine man, Colt believes in dreams. So when he dreams of a mysterious woman who asks him to meet her, he goes. What he doesn’t expect is a magnetic passion that could make him vulnerable to his foe . . .
After prophetic dreams, Shelly Godwin is searching for an emerald sphere. Her visions tell her she needs Colt’s help. Trusting men doesn’t come easily for Shelly. Yet she can’t resist the desire Colt ignites in her. And when danger surrounds them, she must rely on Colt to protect her—and save their future.
55. Blazing Bedtime Stories Volume IV
By Kimberly Raye & Samantha Hunter
Cupids Bite by Kimberly Raye
When dark falls in Skull Creek, Texas, Lucy Rivers has the most incredible lover in her bed! Between the blindfolds and his bold lips, she’s finding an ecstasy she only dreamed about. Her nighttime Cupid pierces her with his every erotic want . . . and then some! Too bad he’s only there until the sun comes up.
I Wish He Might by Samantha Hunter
Nina Larson has a person genie . . . seductive, sexy Alec! Her every wish is his command . . . and does she ever have some X-rated wishes! Each desire he fulfills propels her into another, even hotter one. But Nina holds the key to Alec’s freedom. Problem is, she’s not sure she can surrender the most fantastic sex of her life!
Cupids Bite by Kimberly Raye
When dark falls in Skull Creek, Texas, Lucy Rivers has the most incredible lover in her bed! Between the blindfolds and his bold lips, she’s finding an ecstasy she only dreamed about. Her nighttime Cupid pierces her with his every erotic want . . . and then some! Too bad he’s only there until the sun comes up.
I Wish He Might by Samantha Hunter
Nina Larson has a person genie . . . seductive, sexy Alec! Her every wish is his command . . . and does she ever have some X-rated wishes! Each desire he fulfills propels her into another, even hotter one. But Nina holds the key to Alec’s freedom. Problem is, she’s not sure she can surrender the most fantastic sex of her life!
54. Abalone Summer
By John Dowd
Ever since twelve-year-old Jim Martin's father was killed by a drunk driver two years earlier, Jim has been hurting. Then he gets a summer job working as crew on a boat in British Columbia's Queen Charlotte Islands, where he learns about boats, the sea and especially himself. When Jim and the boat captain's ten-year-old daughter, Julie, help to capture some men who are poaching abalone, a valuable shellfish, Jim begins to take pride in himself again and let go of his pain.
Ever since twelve-year-old Jim Martin's father was killed by a drunk driver two years earlier, Jim has been hurting. Then he gets a summer job working as crew on a boat in British Columbia's Queen Charlotte Islands, where he learns about boats, the sea and especially himself. When Jim and the boat captain's ten-year-old daughter, Julie, help to capture some men who are poaching abalone, a valuable shellfish, Jim begins to take pride in himself again and let go of his pain.
53. Dead in the Family
by Charlaine Harris
A Fae War has left the supernatural community of Bon Temps, Louisiana, in chaos -- and waitress Sookie Stackhouse mentally and physically drained. And still, the peace
and quiet she so desperately craves is hard to come by....
Even with the blood of two vampires in her system, Sookie is having trouble healing from the terrible torture she endured at the hands of her great-grandfather's enemies during the brief but deadly Fae War. Worse are the emotional wounds -- especially over the loss of her own personal fairy godmother and the near death of her first love.
Sookie is hurt and she's mad. Just about the only bright spot in her life -- besides the fact that she is, after all, still alive -- is the love she thinks she feels for vampire Eric Northman, who is under scrutiny by the new vampire king because of their relationship.
As the political implications of the shifters' coming-out are beginning to be felt, Sookie's connection to one particular Were draws her into the dangerous debate. And, unknown to her, though the doors to Faery have been closed, there are still some fae on the human side -- and one of them is angry at Sookie. Very, very angry.
A Fae War has left the supernatural community of Bon Temps, Louisiana, in chaos -- and waitress Sookie Stackhouse mentally and physically drained. And still, the peace
and quiet she so desperately craves is hard to come by....
Even with the blood of two vampires in her system, Sookie is having trouble healing from the terrible torture she endured at the hands of her great-grandfather's enemies during the brief but deadly Fae War. Worse are the emotional wounds -- especially over the loss of her own personal fairy godmother and the near death of her first love.
Sookie is hurt and she's mad. Just about the only bright spot in her life -- besides the fact that she is, after all, still alive -- is the love she thinks she feels for vampire Eric Northman, who is under scrutiny by the new vampire king because of their relationship.
As the political implications of the shifters' coming-out are beginning to be felt, Sookie's connection to one particular Were draws her into the dangerous debate. And, unknown to her, though the doors to Faery have been closed, there are still some fae on the human side -- and one of them is angry at Sookie. Very, very angry.
52. Dead and Gone
by Charlaine Harris
For Sookie Stackhouse, the day to day activities of the vampire and were communities in and around Bon Temps, Louisiana, are of vital interest, She's blood-bound to the leader of the vamps, a friend to the local were pack, works for a man who is shifter, and has a brother who is a were-panther...
But for most of the humans in Bon Temps, the vamps are mysterious seductive creatures-and they don't even know about the weres.
Until now. The weres and shifters have finally decided to follow the lead of the undead and reveal their existence to the ordinary world.
At first it seems to go well. Then the mutilated body of a were-panther is found in the parking lot of the bar where Sookie works. The victim is someone she knows, so she feels compelled to discover who-human or otherwise-did the deed.
But what she doesn't realize is that there is a far greater danger than the killer threatening Bon Temps. A race of unhuman beings--older, more powerful and far more secretive than vampires or werewolves-- is preparing for war. And Sookie will find herself an all-too human pawn in their battle...
For Sookie Stackhouse, the day to day activities of the vampire and were communities in and around Bon Temps, Louisiana, are of vital interest, She's blood-bound to the leader of the vamps, a friend to the local were pack, works for a man who is shifter, and has a brother who is a were-panther...
But for most of the humans in Bon Temps, the vamps are mysterious seductive creatures-and they don't even know about the weres.
Until now. The weres and shifters have finally decided to follow the lead of the undead and reveal their existence to the ordinary world.
At first it seems to go well. Then the mutilated body of a were-panther is found in the parking lot of the bar where Sookie works. The victim is someone she knows, so she feels compelled to discover who-human or otherwise-did the deed.
But what she doesn't realize is that there is a far greater danger than the killer threatening Bon Temps. A race of unhuman beings--older, more powerful and far more secretive than vampires or werewolves-- is preparing for war. And Sookie will find herself an all-too human pawn in their battle...
51. From Dead to Worse
by Charlaine Harris
After the natural disaster of Hurricane Katrina and the manmade explosion at the vampire summit, everyone--human and otherwise--is stressed, including Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse, who is trying to cope with the fact that her boyfriend Quinn has gone missing.
It's clear that things are changing--whether the weres and vamps of her corner of Louisiana like it or not. And Sookie--Friend to the Pack and blood-bonded to Eric Northman, leader of the local vampire community--is caught up in the changes.
In the ensuing battles, Sookie faces danger, death, and once more, betrayal by someone she loves. And when the fur has finished flying and the cold blood finished flowing, her world will be forever altered.
After the natural disaster of Hurricane Katrina and the manmade explosion at the vampire summit, everyone--human and otherwise--is stressed, including Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse, who is trying to cope with the fact that her boyfriend Quinn has gone missing.
It's clear that things are changing--whether the weres and vamps of her corner of Louisiana like it or not. And Sookie--Friend to the Pack and blood-bonded to Eric Northman, leader of the local vampire community--is caught up in the changes.
In the ensuing battles, Sookie faces danger, death, and once more, betrayal by someone she loves. And when the fur has finished flying and the cold blood finished flowing, her world will be forever altered.
50. All Together Dead
Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse has her hands full dealing with every sort of undead and paranormal creature imaginable. And after being betrayed by her longtime vampire love, Sookie must not only deal with a new man in her life-the shapeshifter Quinn-but also contend with the long-planned vampire summit.
The summit is a tense situation. The vampire queen of Louisiana is in a precarious position, her power base weakened by hurricane damage to New Orleans. And there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. Soon, Sookie must decide what side she'll stand with. And her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe.
The summit is a tense situation. The vampire queen of Louisiana is in a precarious position, her power base weakened by hurricane damage to New Orleans. And there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. Soon, Sookie must decide what side she'll stand with. And her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe.
49. Definitely Dead
by Charlaine Harris
Since Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse has so few living relatives, she hates to lose one-- even her cousin Hadley, undead consort of the vampire Queen of New Orleans. Hadley's left everything she has to Sookie, but claiming that inheritance has a high risk factor. Some people don't want her looking too deeply into Hadley's past, or Hadley's possessions. And they're prepared to do anything in their power to stop her. Whoever it is, they're definitely dangerous--and Sookie's life is definitely on the line...
Since Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse has so few living relatives, she hates to lose one-- even her cousin Hadley, undead consort of the vampire Queen of New Orleans. Hadley's left everything she has to Sookie, but claiming that inheritance has a high risk factor. Some people don't want her looking too deeply into Hadley's past, or Hadley's possessions. And they're prepared to do anything in their power to stop her. Whoever it is, they're definitely dangerous--and Sookie's life is definitely on the line...
48. Dead as a Doornail
by Charlaine Harris
Small-town cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse had more than her share of experience with the supernatural--but now it's really hitting close to home. When Sookie sees her brother Jason's eyes start to change, she knows he's about to turn into a werepanther for the first time--a transformation he embraces more readily than most shape-shifters she knows. But her concern becomes cold fear when a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population, and Jason's new panther brethren suspect he may be the shooter. Now, Sookie has until the next full moon to find out who's behind the attacks--unless the killer decides to find her first...
Small-town cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse had more than her share of experience with the supernatural--but now it's really hitting close to home. When Sookie sees her brother Jason's eyes start to change, she knows he's about to turn into a werepanther for the first time--a transformation he embraces more readily than most shape-shifters she knows. But her concern becomes cold fear when a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population, and Jason's new panther brethren suspect he may be the shooter. Now, Sookie has until the next full moon to find out who's behind the attacks--unless the killer decides to find her first...
47. Dead to the World
by Charlaine Harris
It's not every day that you come across a naked man on the side of the road. That's why cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse doesn't just drive on by. Turns out the poor thing hasn't a clue who he is, but Sookie does. It's Eric the vampire--but now he's a kinder, gentler Eric. And a scared Eric, because whoever took his memory now wants his life. Sookie's investigation into who and why leads straight into a dangerous battle among witches, vampires, and werewolves. But a greater danger could be to Sookie's heart--because this version of Eric is very difficult to resist...
It's not every day that you come across a naked man on the side of the road. That's why cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse doesn't just drive on by. Turns out the poor thing hasn't a clue who he is, but Sookie does. It's Eric the vampire--but now he's a kinder, gentler Eric. And a scared Eric, because whoever took his memory now wants his life. Sookie's investigation into who and why leads straight into a dangerous battle among witches, vampires, and werewolves. But a greater danger could be to Sookie's heart--because this version of Eric is very difficult to resist...
46. Club Dead
by Charlaine Harris
There's only one vampire Sookie Stackhouse is involved with (at least voluntarily) and that's Bill. But recently he's been a little distant--in another state, distant. His sinister and sexy boss Eric has an idea where to find him. Next thing Sookie knows, she is off to Jackson, Mississippi to mingle with the under-underworld at Club Dead. It's a dangerous little haunt where the elitist vampire society can go to chill out and suck down some type 0. But when Sookie finally finds Bill--caught in an act of serious betrayal--she's not sure whether to save him ... or sharpen some stakes.
There's only one vampire Sookie Stackhouse is involved with (at least voluntarily) and that's Bill. But recently he's been a little distant--in another state, distant. His sinister and sexy boss Eric has an idea where to find him. Next thing Sookie knows, she is off to Jackson, Mississippi to mingle with the under-underworld at Club Dead. It's a dangerous little haunt where the elitist vampire society can go to chill out and suck down some type 0. But when Sookie finally finds Bill--caught in an act of serious betrayal--she's not sure whether to save him ... or sharpen some stakes.
45. Living Dead In Dallas
by Charlaine Harris
Cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse is on a streak of bad luck. First, her coworker is murdered and no one seems to care. Then she's face-to-face with a beastly creature that gives her a painful and poisonous lashing. Enter the vampires, who graciously suck the poison from her veins (like they didn't enjoy it).
Point is, they saved her life. So when one of the bloodsuckers asks for a favor, she complies. And soon, Sookie's in Dallas using her telepathic skills to search for a missing vampire. She's supposed to interview certain humans involved. There's just one condition: The vampires must promise to behave--and let the humans go unharmed. Easier said than done. All it takes is one delicious blonde and one small mistake for things to turn deadly...
Cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse is on a streak of bad luck. First, her coworker is murdered and no one seems to care. Then she's face-to-face with a beastly creature that gives her a painful and poisonous lashing. Enter the vampires, who graciously suck the poison from her veins (like they didn't enjoy it).
Point is, they saved her life. So when one of the bloodsuckers asks for a favor, she complies. And soon, Sookie's in Dallas using her telepathic skills to search for a missing vampire. She's supposed to interview certain humans involved. There's just one condition: The vampires must promise to behave--and let the humans go unharmed. Easier said than done. All it takes is one delicious blonde and one small mistake for things to turn deadly...
44. Dead Until Dark
by Charlaine Harris
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She' s quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. Its just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability". She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome -- and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy skids been waiting for all her life....
But Bill has a disability of his own: His a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookie's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next...
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She' s quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. Its just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability". She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome -- and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy skids been waiting for all her life....
But Bill has a disability of his own: His a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookie's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next...
Sunday, August 15, 2010
43. Blood Noir
By Laurell K. Hamilton
Jason Schuyler is a werewolf. He's also one of Anita Blake's best friends, and sometimes her lover. And right now he needs her --not to be a vampire hunter, or a federal marshal, or a necromancer, or even for her rank in the werewolf pack, but because his father's dying. He needs Anita because she's a pretty woman who loves him, who can make him look like an everyday guy, who agrees to go home with him and help him say good-bye to the abusive father he never loved. The fact that Jason is about as much an everyday guy as Anita is a pretty woman is something they figure they can keep under the wraps for a couple of days in a small town. How hard can that be?
Really, by now, Anita Blake should know better.
Marmee Noir, ancient mother of all vampires, picks this weekend to make a move. Somehow, she has cut the connection that binds Anita and Jean-Claude, leaving Jean-Claude unable to sense what is happening. Dangerous even as she sleeps, buried in darkness for a thousand years somewhere beneath the old country of Europe, Marmee Noir reaches out toward power. She has attacked Anita before, but never like this. In Anita she senses what she needs to make her enemies tremble...
Jason Schuyler is a werewolf. He's also one of Anita Blake's best friends, and sometimes her lover. And right now he needs her --not to be a vampire hunter, or a federal marshal, or a necromancer, or even for her rank in the werewolf pack, but because his father's dying. He needs Anita because she's a pretty woman who loves him, who can make him look like an everyday guy, who agrees to go home with him and help him say good-bye to the abusive father he never loved. The fact that Jason is about as much an everyday guy as Anita is a pretty woman is something they figure they can keep under the wraps for a couple of days in a small town. How hard can that be?
Really, by now, Anita Blake should know better.
Marmee Noir, ancient mother of all vampires, picks this weekend to make a move. Somehow, she has cut the connection that binds Anita and Jean-Claude, leaving Jean-Claude unable to sense what is happening. Dangerous even as she sleeps, buried in darkness for a thousand years somewhere beneath the old country of Europe, Marmee Noir reaches out toward power. She has attacked Anita before, but never like this. In Anita she senses what she needs to make her enemies tremble...
42. The Sugar Queen
By Sarah Addison Allen
Josey Cirinni is sure of three things: winter is her favorite season, she’s a sorry excuse for a Southern belle, and her passion for the man she loves is best kept a secret, even from him. Josey has grudgingly settled into an uneventful life in her mother’s house, but her one consolation is the secret stockpile of sugary treats and paperback romances she keeps in her closet. One morning, she opens her closet for a sweet, but finds Della Lee Baker hiding there instead. Della Lee is a local waitress on the run who is one part nemesis—and two parts fairy godmother. Under Della Lee's guidance, Josey is soon living in a world where the color red has startling powers, and passion is so real it can make eggs fry in their cartons. And that’s just for starters.
Josey Cirinni is sure of three things: winter is her favorite season, she’s a sorry excuse for a Southern belle, and her passion for the man she loves is best kept a secret, even from him. Josey has grudgingly settled into an uneventful life in her mother’s house, but her one consolation is the secret stockpile of sugary treats and paperback romances she keeps in her closet. One morning, she opens her closet for a sweet, but finds Della Lee Baker hiding there instead. Della Lee is a local waitress on the run who is one part nemesis—and two parts fairy godmother. Under Della Lee's guidance, Josey is soon living in a world where the color red has startling powers, and passion is so real it can make eggs fry in their cartons. And that’s just for starters.
41. Wolf Tales
By Kate Douglas
Yes, I know I said I wasn’t going to comment on the books I’ve read any more, just post the blurb because it creates too much of a back log, but this one really needs to be commented on!
This is the first in the Chanku series and I’m so happy I found it! I already love the series, but now I love it even more ‘cause I know how it all began. This is the best take on the werewolf legend you will ever find, and trust me, I’ve read a lot of werewolf books so I know what I’m talking about.
I love the explanation for why certain people are able to change their form, and I find it really interesting the different ways that not changing can affect the people who don’t know they have the ability. It makes everything fall into place for them when they finally learn what they are. Excellent series! Go HERE to start your own collection!
Oh, and did I mention they're hot enough to melt the fillings out of your teeth? ;-)
Blurb:
When Alexandria's car goes off the road in a terrible blizzard, she has no idea night will bring a powerful rescuer and the start of an ecstatic sexual awakening. The moment Xandi wakes in Stefan's muscular arms, feels the heat of his body pressing against hers, she feels no fear. Instead, she allows herself to be taken by one who is more than a man, whose primal nature is never far from him. As their connection grows, and as Xandi gradually loses her sensual inhibitions, experiencing pleasures she never dreamed possible, she is drawn deeper into Stefan's mysterious world, meeting the alluring beauty, Keisha, as well as the dominant and sometimes ruthlessly commanding Anton, who can have any man or woman he wants…in any way he wishes…
Yes, I know I said I wasn’t going to comment on the books I’ve read any more, just post the blurb because it creates too much of a back log, but this one really needs to be commented on!
This is the first in the Chanku series and I’m so happy I found it! I already love the series, but now I love it even more ‘cause I know how it all began. This is the best take on the werewolf legend you will ever find, and trust me, I’ve read a lot of werewolf books so I know what I’m talking about.
I love the explanation for why certain people are able to change their form, and I find it really interesting the different ways that not changing can affect the people who don’t know they have the ability. It makes everything fall into place for them when they finally learn what they are. Excellent series! Go HERE to start your own collection!
Oh, and did I mention they're hot enough to melt the fillings out of your teeth? ;-)
Blurb:
When Alexandria's car goes off the road in a terrible blizzard, she has no idea night will bring a powerful rescuer and the start of an ecstatic sexual awakening. The moment Xandi wakes in Stefan's muscular arms, feels the heat of his body pressing against hers, she feels no fear. Instead, she allows herself to be taken by one who is more than a man, whose primal nature is never far from him. As their connection grows, and as Xandi gradually loses her sensual inhibitions, experiencing pleasures she never dreamed possible, she is drawn deeper into Stefan's mysterious world, meeting the alluring beauty, Keisha, as well as the dominant and sometimes ruthlessly commanding Anton, who can have any man or woman he wants…in any way he wishes…
40. All Hallows Blood
By Raven Corinn Carluk
This book holds a special place on my shelf because not only is it a fantastic read, it’s the first published book of an internet pal of mine. Keila, the main character, is especially well done, and I love all the emotional baggage she has to work through before she’s able to reach her potential. And you’ll definitely need the air conditioner turned on high when you get to the hot, vampire lovin’.
Blurb:
Mourning her mother on Halloween, Keila O'Broin, a psychic warrior and last of her line, isn't prepared for dead teenagers to ask her to avenge them. Compelled by her family creed, Keila combats the vampiric serial killer, despite her atrophied powers.
But defeating one killer is only the start of her adventure. Into her life walks Varick Eitenhauer, centuries old undead master of Portland. The vampire tells her she will now help him defeat his rivals in a battle to control the city, and he will accept no refusals.
Surrounded by her desire and danger, the only way to succeed is to rise from her past like a phoenix from its ashes.
To buy Raven’s book, go HERE and to read more of her work, go HERE.
This book holds a special place on my shelf because not only is it a fantastic read, it’s the first published book of an internet pal of mine. Keila, the main character, is especially well done, and I love all the emotional baggage she has to work through before she’s able to reach her potential. And you’ll definitely need the air conditioner turned on high when you get to the hot, vampire lovin’.
Blurb:
Mourning her mother on Halloween, Keila O'Broin, a psychic warrior and last of her line, isn't prepared for dead teenagers to ask her to avenge them. Compelled by her family creed, Keila combats the vampiric serial killer, despite her atrophied powers.
But defeating one killer is only the start of her adventure. Into her life walks Varick Eitenhauer, centuries old undead master of Portland. The vampire tells her she will now help him defeat his rivals in a battle to control the city, and he will accept no refusals.
Surrounded by her desire and danger, the only way to succeed is to rise from her past like a phoenix from its ashes.
To buy Raven’s book, go HERE and to read more of her work, go HERE.
39. Fairyville
By Emma Holly
Wish you were here . . . in bed.
That’s the wish that plagues Zoe Clare, a medium who has no trouble communicating with the dead—or with real, live fairies, for that matter! The problem is, she can’t seem to get her feelings across to her landlord-slash-manager, the mysterious Magnus Monroe. He’s Fairyville’s most eligible—and sexiest—bachelor, and Zoe’s tired of watching him celebrate each full moon with just about every woman in town but her. In a place like Fairyville, his erotic antics are almost par for the course, but Zoe suspects the reason for them runs deeper.
Even when Magnus gets her hotter than the desert sun, he holds back from the ultimate intimacy. As a result, the return of Zoe’s high school flame leaves her more than a little vulnerable to her old boyfriend’s charms. How Alex broke her heart is a scandal no one in Fairyville has forgotten. But even if Zoe isn’t ready to forget, she’s ready to forgive. The rules they’re about to break will bring out the jealousy in Magnus—and the astonishing truth.
Wish you were here . . . in bed.
That’s the wish that plagues Zoe Clare, a medium who has no trouble communicating with the dead—or with real, live fairies, for that matter! The problem is, she can’t seem to get her feelings across to her landlord-slash-manager, the mysterious Magnus Monroe. He’s Fairyville’s most eligible—and sexiest—bachelor, and Zoe’s tired of watching him celebrate each full moon with just about every woman in town but her. In a place like Fairyville, his erotic antics are almost par for the course, but Zoe suspects the reason for them runs deeper.
Even when Magnus gets her hotter than the desert sun, he holds back from the ultimate intimacy. As a result, the return of Zoe’s high school flame leaves her more than a little vulnerable to her old boyfriend’s charms. How Alex broke her heart is a scandal no one in Fairyville has forgotten. But even if Zoe isn’t ready to forget, she’s ready to forgive. The rules they’re about to break will bring out the jealousy in Magnus—and the astonishing truth.
38. Strange Attractions
By Emma Holly
Determined not to repeat her mother’s mistakes, high-school dropout and unrepentant heartbreaker Charity Wills will get an education any way she can. So, when she’s offered a chance to attend college for free, she jumps at it. There’s just one little catch . . .
She must travel to the estate of B.G. Grantham, a reclusive physicist who likes to play sex games as exotic as the particles he studies. B.G.’s obsessed with the unattainable, the meaning of life, the mysteries of desire . . . and the thrill of being refused the one thing he craves. Charity is more than tough enough to provide a challenge—especially when Eric Berne, her sexy “keeper” is there to lend a hand.
Behind the locked doors of Grantham’s isolated mansion, the games begin. So does the education of Charity Wills, who’s about to discover that the possibilities for sensual indulgence are beyond anything her wildest dreams ever allowed . . .
Determined not to repeat her mother’s mistakes, high-school dropout and unrepentant heartbreaker Charity Wills will get an education any way she can. So, when she’s offered a chance to attend college for free, she jumps at it. There’s just one little catch . . .
She must travel to the estate of B.G. Grantham, a reclusive physicist who likes to play sex games as exotic as the particles he studies. B.G.’s obsessed with the unattainable, the meaning of life, the mysteries of desire . . . and the thrill of being refused the one thing he craves. Charity is more than tough enough to provide a challenge—especially when Eric Berne, her sexy “keeper” is there to lend a hand.
Behind the locked doors of Grantham’s isolated mansion, the games begin. So does the education of Charity Wills, who’s about to discover that the possibilities for sensual indulgence are beyond anything her wildest dreams ever allowed . . .
37. Free Pass
By Elizabeth Scott
Six friends. Three couples. One sexy adventure.
These three couples have shared good times with each other as friends. But as they celebrate their seven-year anniversaries, they're planning to share some even better times - with strangers.
Vacationing in Miami, Cherisse and Wesley are up for more than sunbathing, when Wesley spies a naughty lady through his telescope and Cherisse focuses her gaze on the lifeguard. Meanwhile, Melanie passes on the hot men at her health club and chooses a private workout with an out-of-towner. When her husband accidentally walks in on them, it's anything goes. And at their rental in Greece, Debra and Gordon discover a Russian couple making love in a private show just for them. For the restless Americans it's quite a come-on - and an irresistible invitation.
Six friends. Three couples. One sexy adventure.
These three couples have shared good times with each other as friends. But as they celebrate their seven-year anniversaries, they're planning to share some even better times - with strangers.
Vacationing in Miami, Cherisse and Wesley are up for more than sunbathing, when Wesley spies a naughty lady through his telescope and Cherisse focuses her gaze on the lifeguard. Meanwhile, Melanie passes on the hot men at her health club and chooses a private workout with an out-of-towner. When her husband accidentally walks in on them, it's anything goes. And at their rental in Greece, Debra and Gordon discover a Russian couple making love in a private show just for them. For the restless Americans it's quite a come-on - and an irresistible invitation.
36. The Mammoth Book of Time Travel Romance
Edited by Trisha Telep
Twenty tales of swashbuckling adventure and passionate romance from some of the most exciting names in romantic fiction, including, Margo Maguire, Autumn Dawn, Sandy Blair, Michelle Maddox, Patti O'Shea, Holly Lisle, Kimberly Raye, and Madeline Baker.
Join the heroines in this delightful anthology as they step backwards--or forwards--in time, transported to the Scottish Highlands of yesteryear, the Wild West, or the distant future. Propelled through time into situations rich with possibility and fraught with danger, these sexy, sassy heroines each seek their dreamed of happy ending.
Will souls separated by time be reunited--or kept apart—forever?
Twenty tales of swashbuckling adventure and passionate romance from some of the most exciting names in romantic fiction, including, Margo Maguire, Autumn Dawn, Sandy Blair, Michelle Maddox, Patti O'Shea, Holly Lisle, Kimberly Raye, and Madeline Baker.
Join the heroines in this delightful anthology as they step backwards--or forwards--in time, transported to the Scottish Highlands of yesteryear, the Wild West, or the distant future. Propelled through time into situations rich with possibility and fraught with danger, these sexy, sassy heroines each seek their dreamed of happy ending.
Will souls separated by time be reunited--or kept apart—forever?
35. The Vampire’s Kiss
By Vivi Anna
Silhouette Nocturne
Olena Petrovich had seen more than enough death and destruction in her three hundred years. Now the vampiress fought as a CSI agent. But nothing about this crime scene seemed right - including the arrogant outsider from Interpol who challenged her authority. Sexy and cocky, the human was downright irresistible.even to a vampiress who should know better.
Though Cale Braxton was out of his league facing the vampires, lycans and witches of Nouveau Monde, he matched Olena in the one way that mattered - passion. Olena had sworn she'd never love - and lose - again, especially a human with his own demons. She and Cale lived in two different worlds, but after only one kiss, Olena wondered how she could ever spend eternity without him...
Silhouette Nocturne
Olena Petrovich had seen more than enough death and destruction in her three hundred years. Now the vampiress fought as a CSI agent. But nothing about this crime scene seemed right - including the arrogant outsider from Interpol who challenged her authority. Sexy and cocky, the human was downright irresistible.even to a vampiress who should know better.
Though Cale Braxton was out of his league facing the vampires, lycans and witches of Nouveau Monde, he matched Olena in the one way that mattered - passion. Olena had sworn she'd never love - and lose - again, especially a human with his own demons. She and Cale lived in two different worlds, but after only one kiss, Olena wondered how she could ever spend eternity without him...
34. Zombie Moon
By Lori Devoti
Silhouette Nocturne
Caleb Locke lived for one thing–killing zombies. And this man–this legend–was exactly what Samantha Wagenr needed. In mist-shrouded alleys, hunted by zombies, haunted by fear, she vowed to find Caleb and convince him to help her. But she hadn’t counted on falling in love….
Caleb kept his own secrets–like the one he couldn’t hide when the moon was full. But his wolf was drawn to Samantha, recognizing her as his mate. With her in his arms, Caleb reveled in passion…and rued his deception. Would she still love the man who fought by her side if she realized that zombies weren’t the only monster? Samantha would have to make a choice–and she only had till the next full moon.
Silhouette Nocturne
Caleb Locke lived for one thing–killing zombies. And this man–this legend–was exactly what Samantha Wagenr needed. In mist-shrouded alleys, hunted by zombies, haunted by fear, she vowed to find Caleb and convince him to help her. But she hadn’t counted on falling in love….
Caleb kept his own secrets–like the one he couldn’t hide when the moon was full. But his wolf was drawn to Samantha, recognizing her as his mate. With her in his arms, Caleb reveled in passion…and rued his deception. Would she still love the man who fought by her side if she realized that zombies weren’t the only monster? Samantha would have to make a choice–and she only had till the next full moon.
33. The Accidental Countess
By Michelle Willingham
When Stephen Chesterfield, the Earl of Whitmore, awakes to find a beautiful woman berating him, he knows he is in trouble! He cannot recall the past three months of his life, never mind having a wife! What’s more, someone is trying to silence him before his memory returns….
Emily Chesterfield is trapped in a marriage of convenience with a man who doesn’t remember her. Stephen clearly thinks she is the most unsuitable countess, but she is falling for her enigmatic husband…. Can they find trust and love before it is too late?
When Stephen Chesterfield, the Earl of Whitmore, awakes to find a beautiful woman berating him, he knows he is in trouble! He cannot recall the past three months of his life, never mind having a wife! What’s more, someone is trying to silence him before his memory returns….
Emily Chesterfield is trapped in a marriage of convenience with a man who doesn’t remember her. Stephen clearly thinks she is the most unsuitable countess, but she is falling for her enigmatic husband…. Can they find trust and love before it is too late?
32. Mona Lisa Darkening
By Sunny
On the vernal equinox, when night equals day and the barriers between worlds become gossamer thin, Mona Lisa gathers her people beneath the full moon. Instead of drawing down the replenishing white light of the moon, a terrifying darkness descends upon her and takes her into NetherHell—the cursed realm of the damned. In this place, the evil queen whose essence shares Mona Lisa’s body is strong enough to fight her host for control—and she does.
But in NetherHell, Mona Lisa’s internal struggle is only the beginning. Captured by a Gargoyle warlord who wants her for his own, Mona Lisa is torn from both within and without by desire, love, and ecstasy. And when her first love crosses the boundaries of the world to rescue her, she must choose her own destiny—before others choose it for her…
On the vernal equinox, when night equals day and the barriers between worlds become gossamer thin, Mona Lisa gathers her people beneath the full moon. Instead of drawing down the replenishing white light of the moon, a terrifying darkness descends upon her and takes her into NetherHell—the cursed realm of the damned. In this place, the evil queen whose essence shares Mona Lisa’s body is strong enough to fight her host for control—and she does.
But in NetherHell, Mona Lisa’s internal struggle is only the beginning. Captured by a Gargoyle warlord who wants her for his own, Mona Lisa is torn from both within and without by desire, love, and ecstasy. And when her first love crosses the boundaries of the world to rescue her, she must choose her own destiny—before others choose it for her…
31. Mona Lisa Craving
By Sunny
Dante, the warrior son of a healer, was cursed by the high priestess to endure a never-ending cycle of life and death, born and reborn into an ever-diminishing bloodline. Someone shares one of his past lives. Her name was Mona Lyria. Back then, on the moon in another world, she was his victim. Today, she is Mona Lisa. This time, she is his savior. Dante’s wish is to die by her hands to end his cursed existence. But she feels fate has given them both a second chance. For even stronger than her craving for blood is her craving for what every Monère female desires, and needs…to bear life. Now she has found her mate. But with this blessing could come a new curse under the shadow of a new moon.
Dante, the warrior son of a healer, was cursed by the high priestess to endure a never-ending cycle of life and death, born and reborn into an ever-diminishing bloodline. Someone shares one of his past lives. Her name was Mona Lyria. Back then, on the moon in another world, she was his victim. Today, she is Mona Lisa. This time, she is his savior. Dante’s wish is to die by her hands to end his cursed existence. But she feels fate has given them both a second chance. For even stronger than her craving for blood is her craving for what every Monère female desires, and needs…to bear life. Now she has found her mate. But with this blessing could come a new curse under the shadow of a new moon.
30. The Renegade Hunter
By Lynsay Sands
Nicholas Argeneau was once a successful hunter who went after rogue vampires who broke the immortal law. Except no one has mentioned his name in the last fifty years, not since he turned into a rogue himself. But once a hunter, always a hunter. When Nicholas sees a bloodthirsty sucker terrifying a woman, it's second nature for him to come to her rescue. He had no idea he would also want to kiss her senseless . . .
One minute Josephine Willan is taking in a breath of fresh air, and the next sharp fangs are heading straight for her neck! Luckily, a gorgeous stranger saves her life . . . and gets locked up for his troubles. Can a man who kisses so lovingly and passionately really have committed the crime he's accused of? Jo isn't so sure . . . and she's determined to prove that this renegade hunter is worth fighting for.
Nicholas Argeneau was once a successful hunter who went after rogue vampires who broke the immortal law. Except no one has mentioned his name in the last fifty years, not since he turned into a rogue himself. But once a hunter, always a hunter. When Nicholas sees a bloodthirsty sucker terrifying a woman, it's second nature for him to come to her rescue. He had no idea he would also want to kiss her senseless . . .
One minute Josephine Willan is taking in a breath of fresh air, and the next sharp fangs are heading straight for her neck! Luckily, a gorgeous stranger saves her life . . . and gets locked up for his troubles. Can a man who kisses so lovingly and passionately really have committed the crime he's accused of? Jo isn't so sure . . . and she's determined to prove that this renegade hunter is worth fighting for.
29. Master of Fire
By Angela Knight
A beautiful, brilliant chemist, Giada Shepherd is also an immortal witch with magical powers, striving to save the world from itself. Her latest assignment: to save the life of the mortal son of immortal vampire King Arthur.
A handsome forensic chemist, Logan MacRoy investigates drug crimes, arson, and bombings. He’s a proud man – and if he knew that his gorgeous new trainee had been sent to protect him, Logan would not be happy.
As Giada and Logan team up to capture a bomber, sexual tension mounts. But little does Logan know that sex between them would turn him into a vampire. Now, as a killer sets a series of deadlt traps for them, the truth must come out. And a weapon they never counted on could prove essential: love . . .
A beautiful, brilliant chemist, Giada Shepherd is also an immortal witch with magical powers, striving to save the world from itself. Her latest assignment: to save the life of the mortal son of immortal vampire King Arthur.
A handsome forensic chemist, Logan MacRoy investigates drug crimes, arson, and bombings. He’s a proud man – and if he knew that his gorgeous new trainee had been sent to protect him, Logan would not be happy.
As Giada and Logan team up to capture a bomber, sexual tension mounts. But little does Logan know that sex between them would turn him into a vampire. Now, as a killer sets a series of deadlt traps for them, the truth must come out. And a weapon they never counted on could prove essential: love . . .
28. Reunion
By Lindsay McKenna
Silhouette Nocturne
Eternal passion comes at a price...
He claims it was a brutal test of his Jaguar powers that divided their fates for centuries. All Aella knows is that a familiar joy courses through her body when she arrives on an archeological assignment at the Great Serpent mound. Who is this godlike stranger who comes to her in her dreams? She should be terrified.Instead, Fox’s protective presence awakens in Aella memories of torrid lovemaking--and a yearning she can’t deny. If she believes her visions, Aella is Fox’s lost Incan bride... and he is her soul flame. But Fox is competing with the Dark Lord who is determined to keep them apart, hovering on the brink of temptation, eternally separated from the Light...
Silhouette Nocturne
Eternal passion comes at a price...
He claims it was a brutal test of his Jaguar powers that divided their fates for centuries. All Aella knows is that a familiar joy courses through her body when she arrives on an archeological assignment at the Great Serpent mound. Who is this godlike stranger who comes to her in her dreams? She should be terrified.Instead, Fox’s protective presence awakens in Aella memories of torrid lovemaking--and a yearning she can’t deny. If she believes her visions, Aella is Fox’s lost Incan bride... and he is her soul flame. But Fox is competing with the Dark Lord who is determined to keep them apart, hovering on the brink of temptation, eternally separated from the Light...
27. The Hunted
By Anna Leonard
Silhouette Nocturne
Beth Havelock always felt the pull of the ocean, tied to her Nantucket home even as she yearned for something new, something exciting. But when a handsome stranger washes up in a storm, she is cautious; her own immediate attraction to him frightens her. She knows nothing about him…except that he is hiding something.
As seal-kin - a shapeshifter - Dylan Meredith was happy with his own kind. But the beautiful Nantucketer drew him from his rocky home to live among humans…and risk discovery for the chance at love.
Neither can deny that the passion growing between them is real. But as Beth wrestles with her feelings - and uncovers her own mysterious origins - danger lurks. Dylan is being hunted, and now Beth is a target, too….
Silhouette Nocturne
Beth Havelock always felt the pull of the ocean, tied to her Nantucket home even as she yearned for something new, something exciting. But when a handsome stranger washes up in a storm, she is cautious; her own immediate attraction to him frightens her. She knows nothing about him…except that he is hiding something.
As seal-kin - a shapeshifter - Dylan Meredith was happy with his own kind. But the beautiful Nantucketer drew him from his rocky home to live among humans…and risk discovery for the chance at love.
Neither can deny that the passion growing between them is real. But as Beth wrestles with her feelings - and uncovers her own mysterious origins - danger lurks. Dylan is being hunted, and now Beth is a target, too….
26. Secret Life of a Vampire
By Kerrelyn Sparks
A typical bachelor party is all about beers and beautiful women. A vampire bachelor party is no different—except the men are drinking Blissky (whiskey-flavored synthetic blood). And no one can throw a party quite like Jack. When you’re the illegitimate son of the legendary Casanova, you know how to have a good time. But when the party gets out of hand and the cops show up, Jack has some explaining to do…if only he wasn’t struck speechless by the beauty of Officer Lara Boucher.
Lara is sure there’s something more than a bachelor party going on. What is Jack hiding? How come no one at the hotel remembers him the next day? Why does he warn her to leave him alone when he’s obviously attracted to her? As a woman, she finds this modern day Casanova hard to resist. As a police officer, she’s determined to uncover his secrets…if she can only get the job done before he seduces her.
A typical bachelor party is all about beers and beautiful women. A vampire bachelor party is no different—except the men are drinking Blissky (whiskey-flavored synthetic blood). And no one can throw a party quite like Jack. When you’re the illegitimate son of the legendary Casanova, you know how to have a good time. But when the party gets out of hand and the cops show up, Jack has some explaining to do…if only he wasn’t struck speechless by the beauty of Officer Lara Boucher.
Lara is sure there’s something more than a bachelor party going on. What is Jack hiding? How come no one at the hotel remembers him the next day? Why does he warn her to leave him alone when he’s obviously attracted to her? As a woman, she finds this modern day Casanova hard to resist. As a police officer, she’s determined to uncover his secrets…if she can only get the job done before he seduces her.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
25. Blood Games
By Chelsea Quinn Yarbro
This is the beginning of an epic series, and some day I hope to have the time to read them all.
Saint Germain is a thousand year old vampire, but he takes great care to hide his true nature. This is not just his story, however. This is the story of Nero's Rome, of the people, the senators, the politics, of seduction and betrayal. This is a tale rich in history and politics.
As a foreigner living in Rome, Saint Germain has certain immunitites from the political mechanizations of the time. He owns land and slaves, and makes a fine profit supplying exotic beasts for the Games. The Games play an important part of this time in history.
Despite his best efforts, he is not able to fully escape the plots and intrigues of Nero's court. After being asked to, and agreeing to, seducing a senator's wife, he earns himself a mortal enemy, and a chance of love.
If you love history, or vampires, or even just a well told story, then this is the book for you.
This is the beginning of an epic series, and some day I hope to have the time to read them all.
Saint Germain is a thousand year old vampire, but he takes great care to hide his true nature. This is not just his story, however. This is the story of Nero's Rome, of the people, the senators, the politics, of seduction and betrayal. This is a tale rich in history and politics.
As a foreigner living in Rome, Saint Germain has certain immunitites from the political mechanizations of the time. He owns land and slaves, and makes a fine profit supplying exotic beasts for the Games. The Games play an important part of this time in history.
Despite his best efforts, he is not able to fully escape the plots and intrigues of Nero's court. After being asked to, and agreeing to, seducing a senator's wife, he earns himself a mortal enemy, and a chance of love.
If you love history, or vampires, or even just a well told story, then this is the book for you.
24. The Time Traveller’s Wife
By Audrey Niffenegger
I’m really glad I didn’t see the movie first, because I probably wouldn’t have picked up the book – and that would have been a shame, because the book was wonderful. I have no idea how anyone could expect such a complicated story to translate well to the big screen.
This is the story of Henry DeTamble, who was born with a genetic mutation that causes him to spontaneously travel through time. He has no control over this, nor can he take anything with him – not money, not identification, not even his clothing.
This is also the story of Clare, who meets him for the first time when she is six, but after Henry is already married to her. For Clare it’s the beginning of a friendship that turns into love, for Henry it’s a chance to watch the woman he loves grow up.
We share the lives of these two, the love and joy, pain and despair, through glimpses through time. The ending was . . . probably the only way it could have ended and I’m not going to spoil it by saying more than that.
I would love to see a sequel to this, perhaps about the time traveller’s daughter.
Pick up a copy of this book. You won’t be sorry.
I’m really glad I didn’t see the movie first, because I probably wouldn’t have picked up the book – and that would have been a shame, because the book was wonderful. I have no idea how anyone could expect such a complicated story to translate well to the big screen.
This is the story of Henry DeTamble, who was born with a genetic mutation that causes him to spontaneously travel through time. He has no control over this, nor can he take anything with him – not money, not identification, not even his clothing.
This is also the story of Clare, who meets him for the first time when she is six, but after Henry is already married to her. For Clare it’s the beginning of a friendship that turns into love, for Henry it’s a chance to watch the woman he loves grow up.
We share the lives of these two, the love and joy, pain and despair, through glimpses through time. The ending was . . . probably the only way it could have ended and I’m not going to spoil it by saying more than that.
I would love to see a sequel to this, perhaps about the time traveller’s daughter.
Pick up a copy of this book. You won’t be sorry.
23. The Vampire and the Virgin
By Kerrelyn Sparks
I loved this book. Okay, I love a lot of vampire romance books, but I really loved this one, even it’s Barbara Cartland-esque title.
This is the story of FBI psychologist Olivia Sotiris and vampire Robby MacKay, who meet on a secluded Greek island. She’s there hiding out from a stalker, and he’s there on an enforced leave of absence from work. Olivia’s stalker finds her and she’s forced to leave in a hurry.
I don’t know how much more I can safely tell you without spoiling the story, but suffice it to say there’s lots of action, lots of romance, as well as humour and suspense. AND there’s a very logical reason for Olivia still being a virgin when she meets Robby. Definitely a keeper!
I loved this book. Okay, I love a lot of vampire romance books, but I really loved this one, even it’s Barbara Cartland-esque title.
This is the story of FBI psychologist Olivia Sotiris and vampire Robby MacKay, who meet on a secluded Greek island. She’s there hiding out from a stalker, and he’s there on an enforced leave of absence from work. Olivia’s stalker finds her and she’s forced to leave in a hurry.
I don’t know how much more I can safely tell you without spoiling the story, but suffice it to say there’s lots of action, lots of romance, as well as humour and suspense. AND there’s a very logical reason for Olivia still being a virgin when she meets Robby. Definitely a keeper!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
22. Bitten By Cupid
By Lynsay Sands, Pamela Palmer, and Jaime Rush
This was a thoroughly enjoyable trio of stories, all revolving around a Valentine’s Day theme.
Anyone who’s familiar with the Lynsay Sands Argeneau vampires will especially love the story, Vampire Valentine. Marguerite Argeneau is up to her old match-making tricks. This time her victims are Tiny McGraw, human private investigator, and Mirabeau La Roche, vampire private investigator. This was an action packed story that was also lots of fun.
In Hearts Untamed, Pamela Palmer gives us a story of the Feral Warriors. This is the first I’ve read of these immortals, and I really hope it won’t be the last. In this story, Julianna has just learned a terrible secret that could threaten her entire existence. With the return of the love of her life, Zeeland, she must fight with everything she possesses to keep him from learning her secret, which would put his life in jeopardy as well.
In Kiss and Kill Cupid, Jaime Rush gives us the story of Kristy Morgan, a writer who, just minutes before a job interview with sexy Adrian Kruger, learns that she’s the next intended victim of a serial killer that strikes only on Valentine’s Day. The problem is, no one would believe her if she said anything because she found out by listening to the killer’s thoughts. The moment she meets Adrian, sparks fly between them. Now she must figure out if he’s her savior or the killer.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable trio of stories, all revolving around a Valentine’s Day theme.
Anyone who’s familiar with the Lynsay Sands Argeneau vampires will especially love the story, Vampire Valentine. Marguerite Argeneau is up to her old match-making tricks. This time her victims are Tiny McGraw, human private investigator, and Mirabeau La Roche, vampire private investigator. This was an action packed story that was also lots of fun.
In Hearts Untamed, Pamela Palmer gives us a story of the Feral Warriors. This is the first I’ve read of these immortals, and I really hope it won’t be the last. In this story, Julianna has just learned a terrible secret that could threaten her entire existence. With the return of the love of her life, Zeeland, she must fight with everything she possesses to keep him from learning her secret, which would put his life in jeopardy as well.
In Kiss and Kill Cupid, Jaime Rush gives us the story of Kristy Morgan, a writer who, just minutes before a job interview with sexy Adrian Kruger, learns that she’s the next intended victim of a serial killer that strikes only on Valentine’s Day. The problem is, no one would believe her if she said anything because she found out by listening to the killer’s thoughts. The moment she meets Adrian, sparks fly between them. Now she must figure out if he’s her savior or the killer.
21. Immortal Sins
By Amanda Ashley
Vampire Jason Rourke was trapped in a painting 300 years ago by a wizard, in retribution for seducing the wizard’s daughter. Karinna Adams sees the painting in a local gallery and her fascination with it leads her to purchase it. Once she has it installed in her home she’s plagued with visions of the handsome man in the painting until one night she makes a wish and sets him free.
It’s not just his 300 year old thirst that draws Rourke to Kari, he’s never met anyone like her before. Her kindness and generosity of spirit make him feel things he didn’t think he was capable of feeling. She helps him adjust to the modern world, then helps him on his quest to free the wizard’s daughter, who was also trapped in a painting.
There’s lost of great action in this book and I really loved the characters. The ending was superb – when the wizard realizes the curse over Rourke was broken he comes after him, but finds Karinna instead. He’s defeated, but not before he traps Kari in a painting. Rourke is willing to sacrifice himself by going back into the painting, as long as he can spend eternity with the woman he loves.
Definitely a keeper!
Vampire Jason Rourke was trapped in a painting 300 years ago by a wizard, in retribution for seducing the wizard’s daughter. Karinna Adams sees the painting in a local gallery and her fascination with it leads her to purchase it. Once she has it installed in her home she’s plagued with visions of the handsome man in the painting until one night she makes a wish and sets him free.
It’s not just his 300 year old thirst that draws Rourke to Kari, he’s never met anyone like her before. Her kindness and generosity of spirit make him feel things he didn’t think he was capable of feeling. She helps him adjust to the modern world, then helps him on his quest to free the wizard’s daughter, who was also trapped in a painting.
There’s lost of great action in this book and I really loved the characters. The ending was superb – when the wizard realizes the curse over Rourke was broken he comes after him, but finds Karinna instead. He’s defeated, but not before he traps Kari in a painting. Rourke is willing to sacrifice himself by going back into the painting, as long as he can spend eternity with the woman he loves.
Definitely a keeper!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
17. 18. 19. 20. The Twilight Saga
by Stephanie Meyers
Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn
I think you'd pretty much have to live under a rock to not have at least heard about the Twilight Saga, so it seems a little pointless to go over the plot lines. I will say there's been a lot of controversy over the books, but isn’t there a saying that any press is good press?
Even though I love vampire romances, I've been avoiding this series. Why? Because I'm not really into the young adult genre when it comes to romance and I've let my opinion be coloured by all those critics out there – “the writing is really bad”, “her vampires sparkle, for crying out loud!”
Well, I’m not afraid to admit that not only did I read them, I enjoyed them. The story captured my attention enough that I didn't waste any time trying to analyze the writing. I blazed through the first two books in one week and the other two I fit into my busy schedule during the work week.
I think one of the things that made this an excellent series is that it allowed me to become emotionally involved in the characters and their story. At the end of the first book I felt sorry for Bella and thought Edward should be staked for what he did to her. At the end of the second book I thought Edward was too good for Bella. By the end of the third book I didn’t think she deserved either Edward or Jacob. And the fourth book neatly wrapped up the loose ends.
As far as the writing goes, I think what people need to bear in mind is that these were written with teenagers in mind, and I think the critics subconsciously enjoy the story but wanted it to be written for adults. And you know what? I don’t think it would have worked as well if it’d been written for adults.
And as far as the “sparkling” goes, the way it’s presented makes perfect sense. Perhaps we could have stood a little more explanation about why it happens, but the fact that it happens is important to the story. So there! :-p
So, while I wouldn’t say Twilight is up there with The Count of Monte Cristo, I’d still put a copy of it on my keeper shelf. As for all you folks up in arms about it, how many books have you had published that not only become best sellers but are made into movies as well?
That’s what I thought.
Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn
I think you'd pretty much have to live under a rock to not have at least heard about the Twilight Saga, so it seems a little pointless to go over the plot lines. I will say there's been a lot of controversy over the books, but isn’t there a saying that any press is good press?
Even though I love vampire romances, I've been avoiding this series. Why? Because I'm not really into the young adult genre when it comes to romance and I've let my opinion be coloured by all those critics out there – “the writing is really bad”, “her vampires sparkle, for crying out loud!”
Well, I’m not afraid to admit that not only did I read them, I enjoyed them. The story captured my attention enough that I didn't waste any time trying to analyze the writing. I blazed through the first two books in one week and the other two I fit into my busy schedule during the work week.
I think one of the things that made this an excellent series is that it allowed me to become emotionally involved in the characters and their story. At the end of the first book I felt sorry for Bella and thought Edward should be staked for what he did to her. At the end of the second book I thought Edward was too good for Bella. By the end of the third book I didn’t think she deserved either Edward or Jacob. And the fourth book neatly wrapped up the loose ends.
As far as the writing goes, I think what people need to bear in mind is that these were written with teenagers in mind, and I think the critics subconsciously enjoy the story but wanted it to be written for adults. And you know what? I don’t think it would have worked as well if it’d been written for adults.
And as far as the “sparkling” goes, the way it’s presented makes perfect sense. Perhaps we could have stood a little more explanation about why it happens, but the fact that it happens is important to the story. So there! :-p
So, while I wouldn’t say Twilight is up there with The Count of Monte Cristo, I’d still put a copy of it on my keeper shelf. As for all you folks up in arms about it, how many books have you had published that not only become best sellers but are made into movies as well?
That’s what I thought.
16. Belong to the Night
By Shelly Laurenston, Cynthia Eden & Sherrill Quinn
To be honest, I only picked this book up because of Sherrill Quinn’s name on the cover. I’ve read her work before and enjoyed it thoroughly. I have to admit, she keeps very good company! I enjoyed all three stories equally, they were all very different and I'd be hard pressed to chose a favourite.
The Wolf, the Witch, and Her Lack of Wardrobe is an intriguing tale of a coven of witches that co-existed with a town of shape-shifters. The shape-shifters just want to live in peace, the coven just wants to be left alone to do their thing. Trouble starts when the mayor of the town locks horns with the head of the coven and then escalates when the two must join forces when the town's in danger.
In the Dark offers a leopard-shifting FBI agent who's been dealing with the death of her lover, which is made more difficult when she runs into him in a bar and then is forced to accept his help with a case she's working on.
The City of the Dead has a witch who must deal with her committment issues if she wants to enlist the help of her on again, off again lover to help her find her missing brother. It might be easier if she could keep her hands off the sexy detective.
For anyone looking for spine-tingling adventure and hot sex, this book is the perfect answer to the long cold night.
To be honest, I only picked this book up because of Sherrill Quinn’s name on the cover. I’ve read her work before and enjoyed it thoroughly. I have to admit, she keeps very good company! I enjoyed all three stories equally, they were all very different and I'd be hard pressed to chose a favourite.
The Wolf, the Witch, and Her Lack of Wardrobe is an intriguing tale of a coven of witches that co-existed with a town of shape-shifters. The shape-shifters just want to live in peace, the coven just wants to be left alone to do their thing. Trouble starts when the mayor of the town locks horns with the head of the coven and then escalates when the two must join forces when the town's in danger.
In the Dark offers a leopard-shifting FBI agent who's been dealing with the death of her lover, which is made more difficult when she runs into him in a bar and then is forced to accept his help with a case she's working on.
The City of the Dead has a witch who must deal with her committment issues if she wants to enlist the help of her on again, off again lover to help her find her missing brother. It might be easier if she could keep her hands off the sexy detective.
For anyone looking for spine-tingling adventure and hot sex, this book is the perfect answer to the long cold night.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
15. Last of the Ravens
by Linda Winstead Jones
Though there are alot of peopleout there who scorn the category romance, I like them because if you're in the the mood for a certain type of story, a category romance is your best bet. That being said, Silhouette Nocturnes do not read like your typical "formula romance", I find very little formula about them.
This book was no exception. This was not just a story of a man who can shape shift into a flock of 77 ravens, the last of his kind. Nor was this just the story of a woman who can speak to ghosts. This wasn't even just the story of how they met and acknowledged the attraction between them.
The author spins a intricate web of mystery and danger, adventure and romance, hope and betrayal. It's also the story of acceptance and how two people find their way.
Though there are alot of peopleout there who scorn the category romance, I like them because if you're in the the mood for a certain type of story, a category romance is your best bet. That being said, Silhouette Nocturnes do not read like your typical "formula romance", I find very little formula about them.
This book was no exception. This was not just a story of a man who can shape shift into a flock of 77 ravens, the last of his kind. Nor was this just the story of a woman who can speak to ghosts. This wasn't even just the story of how they met and acknowledged the attraction between them.
The author spins a intricate web of mystery and danger, adventure and romance, hope and betrayal. It's also the story of acceptance and how two people find their way.
14. Sexy Beast V
Another anthology from Aphrodesia Erotic Romance.
First we have another Chanku tale from Kate Douglas. This is another story of Tala Quinn, taking place a little while after the story in Sexy Beast II. Tala has been working alongside her bonded mates AJ and Mik for a while now, and it's time for a break. They seek refuge in a cabin several of their packmates are already staying at and end up helping a friend in need with a very unique problem.
Vonna Harper gives us a tale of a woman who's kept herself at an emotional distance for most of her life. She meets up with a man who forces her to face down her emotional demons, and in turn she frees him as well.
The last story is an amazing one by Crystal Jordan. This story alone is well worth the price of the book. This futuristic tale begins with the survivor of a space ship crash wandering naked and lost through the snow. She's rescued by a bear shape-shifter and awakens to find she's been thrown 500 years into the future. I loved the world building and the bear shifters and the chemistry between the two main characters.
This anthology has the dubious honour of being one of the first books I've actually downloaded off the internet. I have to admit, this is not my favourite method of reading. I'm old, and the light is hard on my eyes. I'm sure that's why I read it so fast. It had nothing to do with the content. Really! ;-)
First we have another Chanku tale from Kate Douglas. This is another story of Tala Quinn, taking place a little while after the story in Sexy Beast II. Tala has been working alongside her bonded mates AJ and Mik for a while now, and it's time for a break. They seek refuge in a cabin several of their packmates are already staying at and end up helping a friend in need with a very unique problem.
Vonna Harper gives us a tale of a woman who's kept herself at an emotional distance for most of her life. She meets up with a man who forces her to face down her emotional demons, and in turn she frees him as well.
The last story is an amazing one by Crystal Jordan. This story alone is well worth the price of the book. This futuristic tale begins with the survivor of a space ship crash wandering naked and lost through the snow. She's rescued by a bear shape-shifter and awakens to find she's been thrown 500 years into the future. I loved the world building and the bear shifters and the chemistry between the two main characters.
This anthology has the dubious honour of being one of the first books I've actually downloaded off the internet. I have to admit, this is not my favourite method of reading. I'm old, and the light is hard on my eyes. I'm sure that's why I read it so fast. It had nothing to do with the content. Really! ;-)
13. Sexy Beast II
by Kate Douglas, Noelle Mack, & Kathleen Dante
I used to think of books like these as mind candy - stories that have no nutrition but are okay as a treat once in awhile. However, this book changed my mind. Yes, it's an erotic romance anthology so it has plenty of sex, but primarily it has really good stories that just happen to have sex in them.
From Kate Douglas we have a story of the Chanku, one that pre-dates Wolf Tales IV. This is the story of Lisa's sister Tala, who's lived a troubled life made worse by the fact she suffers amnesia. It's not until she's discovered by a Chanku couple, Mik and AJ, that she finds her true destiny.
Noelle Mack spins a tale of a hairdresser who goes on a fantastical vacation to France to groom a lion's mane. There she finds the immortal Jean Claude and is caught in his web of fantasy. And no, he's not a shapeshifter.
Kathleen Dante presents a tale of a woman on a quest to find information regarding her parents. She's rescued from a car crash by a hunky sheriff's deputy who helps her discover an astonishing family secret.
Any one of these stories makes this book worth buying.
I used to think of books like these as mind candy - stories that have no nutrition but are okay as a treat once in awhile. However, this book changed my mind. Yes, it's an erotic romance anthology so it has plenty of sex, but primarily it has really good stories that just happen to have sex in them.
From Kate Douglas we have a story of the Chanku, one that pre-dates Wolf Tales IV. This is the story of Lisa's sister Tala, who's lived a troubled life made worse by the fact she suffers amnesia. It's not until she's discovered by a Chanku couple, Mik and AJ, that she finds her true destiny.
Noelle Mack spins a tale of a hairdresser who goes on a fantastical vacation to France to groom a lion's mane. There she finds the immortal Jean Claude and is caught in his web of fantasy. And no, he's not a shapeshifter.
Kathleen Dante presents a tale of a woman on a quest to find information regarding her parents. She's rescued from a car crash by a hunky sheriff's deputy who helps her discover an astonishing family secret.
Any one of these stories makes this book worth buying.
12. Wolf Tales IV
by Kate Douglas
This book comes with a warning on the back that reads: WARNING! This is a REALLY HOT book. Believe it! :-)
However, this was more than just a really steamy book. It was a good read as well.
Lisa Quinn is a wolf rescue specialist who has no idea why she has such an affinity with the wolves she cares for. She's dedicated to her work and determined to discover why wolves have been disappearing from the sanctuary she works in.
Tinker McClintock was assigned to track down the sister to one of his packmates. It's not surprising there's instant chemistry between them, but it goes deeper than just sexual. Lisa, like Tinker (and her brother), is Chanku, a desendant of a race of shapeshifters whose powers are triggered by the special nutrients found in plants and grasses only found on the Tibetan steppe they originated from.
I enjoyed the new take on the werewolf legend, and it made a poignant kind of sense for these people to lead disfunctional lives until they discovered their heritage. Lisa is a strong, independent character and meets Tinker on her own terms. Tinker is surrounded by friends and lovers, but is still a lonely soul.
The action and mystery surrounding the disappearance of the wolves was also well done. Even without the romance this would have been a good read. And the sex ain't bad either. ;-)
This book comes with a warning on the back that reads: WARNING! This is a REALLY HOT book. Believe it! :-)
However, this was more than just a really steamy book. It was a good read as well.
Lisa Quinn is a wolf rescue specialist who has no idea why she has such an affinity with the wolves she cares for. She's dedicated to her work and determined to discover why wolves have been disappearing from the sanctuary she works in.
Tinker McClintock was assigned to track down the sister to one of his packmates. It's not surprising there's instant chemistry between them, but it goes deeper than just sexual. Lisa, like Tinker (and her brother), is Chanku, a desendant of a race of shapeshifters whose powers are triggered by the special nutrients found in plants and grasses only found on the Tibetan steppe they originated from.
I enjoyed the new take on the werewolf legend, and it made a poignant kind of sense for these people to lead disfunctional lives until they discovered their heritage. Lisa is a strong, independent character and meets Tinker on her own terms. Tinker is surrounded by friends and lovers, but is still a lonely soul.
The action and mystery surrounding the disappearance of the wolves was also well done. Even without the romance this would have been a good read. And the sex ain't bad either. ;-)
Sunday, January 31, 2010
11. Twenty Wishes
by Debbie Macomber
The story begins with a group of widows getting together to offer each other support to get through the hardest holiday for them, Valentine's Day. Between sipping champagne and dancing on bubble wrap, they begin to talk about all the things they wished they'd done. Together they decide to each create a list of twenty wishes.
This novel follows the lives of these women and how they make their wishes come true, often in unexpected ways. Some of the wishes are easy, some take a lot of work. And others take them far out of their comfort zone.
You would think with so many stories being told, the novel itself would be choppy. But as these friends interact with each other and work towards fulfilling their wish lists, one scene flows effortlessly into another.
This is a wonderful, slice of life book, filled with heart ache and loneliness, laughter and tears. But most of all it's filled with hope. I think we could all use a list of twenty wishes in our lives.
The story begins with a group of widows getting together to offer each other support to get through the hardest holiday for them, Valentine's Day. Between sipping champagne and dancing on bubble wrap, they begin to talk about all the things they wished they'd done. Together they decide to each create a list of twenty wishes.
This novel follows the lives of these women and how they make their wishes come true, often in unexpected ways. Some of the wishes are easy, some take a lot of work. And others take them far out of their comfort zone.
You would think with so many stories being told, the novel itself would be choppy. But as these friends interact with each other and work towards fulfilling their wish lists, one scene flows effortlessly into another.
This is a wonderful, slice of life book, filled with heart ache and loneliness, laughter and tears. But most of all it's filled with hope. I think we could all use a list of twenty wishes in our lives.
10. The PMS Outlaws
by Sharyn McCrumb
I have to admit, this isn't my usual reading fare, it was the title that attracted me. However, it was the writing and the story that kept me reading.
At first glance, it's the story of Elizabeth MacPherson, a woman who needs to come to terms with the disappearance of her husband. She has sunk so far into denial and depression that she checks herself into Cherry Hill Psychiatric Hospital.
But skillfully woven into Elizabeth's story is the story of her cousin Bill, a lawyer, who's been given the responsibility of finding a new home for his law practice; the story of A.P. Hill, Bill's law partner, who's desperately trying to unravel the reasons behind her old college chum's sudden transition from top notch lawyer to fugitive from justice; and the story of the PMS Outlaws, two women bent on exacting an unusual revenge on men with a wandering eye.
This was an excellent book and I highly recommend it.
I have to admit, this isn't my usual reading fare, it was the title that attracted me. However, it was the writing and the story that kept me reading.
At first glance, it's the story of Elizabeth MacPherson, a woman who needs to come to terms with the disappearance of her husband. She has sunk so far into denial and depression that she checks herself into Cherry Hill Psychiatric Hospital.
But skillfully woven into Elizabeth's story is the story of her cousin Bill, a lawyer, who's been given the responsibility of finding a new home for his law practice; the story of A.P. Hill, Bill's law partner, who's desperately trying to unravel the reasons behind her old college chum's sudden transition from top notch lawyer to fugitive from justice; and the story of the PMS Outlaws, two women bent on exacting an unusual revenge on men with a wandering eye.
This was an excellent book and I highly recommend it.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
9. A Natural Father
by Sarah Mayberry
Lucy Basso is pregnant, single, and trying to expand her produce delivery business. As if that weren't complicated enough, she's attracted to the son of her produce supplier. So naturally, while trying to fight her attraction to him, she ends up with him as her business partner. She keeps him at arms length until he finally convinces her that he's not going to abandon her. They have one steamy night together and then he appears to do just that.
The characters were really interesting. Both Lucy and Dom have abandonment issues - hers because of her father who desserted his family when she was young, and his because of a wife who left him. They seem to work on these issues together until Dom suddenly decides he can't give Lucy what she deserves - without consulting her first.
They spend a miserable few weeks apart, but he's there when Lucy goes into labour, just when she needs him most.
Lucy Basso is pregnant, single, and trying to expand her produce delivery business. As if that weren't complicated enough, she's attracted to the son of her produce supplier. So naturally, while trying to fight her attraction to him, she ends up with him as her business partner. She keeps him at arms length until he finally convinces her that he's not going to abandon her. They have one steamy night together and then he appears to do just that.
The characters were really interesting. Both Lucy and Dom have abandonment issues - hers because of her father who desserted his family when she was young, and his because of a wife who left him. They seem to work on these issues together until Dom suddenly decides he can't give Lucy what she deserves - without consulting her first.
They spend a miserable few weeks apart, but he's there when Lucy goes into labour, just when she needs him most.
8. Montana Creeds: Tyler
by Linda Lael Miller
Lily Kenyon has returned home, with her daughter Tess, to take care of her father while he's recouperating from a heart attack. It's a quirk of fate that brings Tyler Creed home at the same time, the boy who broke her heart years ago. It doesn't take them long to realize the connection between them is still sizzling. But before they can be together, they both have to deal with demons from their past, including a waitress from Tyler's past who may, or may not, have had his son; an ex-mother-in-law who's threatening to take Lily's daughter away from her; and a crazy drunk who demolishes Tyler's cabin with a semi.
This was a book passed on to me by a friend, who regularly passes bags of books on to me. I think there's method to her madness - she doesn't have a lot of room to keep them herself and she knows I'm a pack rat. So by passing them on to me she knows where to come if she ever wants to re-read them. :-)
Anyway, the worst part of this book was realizing it was the third of a series. Now I won't be satisfied as until I find the other two!
The main character, Tyler, has a lot of emotional baggage and this is dealt with skillfully and logically. He and his estranged brothers went through hell growing up and he needs to face this before he can move on. Lily, too, has some emotional baggage to deal with before she can let go of the past and realize she's a small town girl at heart.
Lily Kenyon has returned home, with her daughter Tess, to take care of her father while he's recouperating from a heart attack. It's a quirk of fate that brings Tyler Creed home at the same time, the boy who broke her heart years ago. It doesn't take them long to realize the connection between them is still sizzling. But before they can be together, they both have to deal with demons from their past, including a waitress from Tyler's past who may, or may not, have had his son; an ex-mother-in-law who's threatening to take Lily's daughter away from her; and a crazy drunk who demolishes Tyler's cabin with a semi.
This was a book passed on to me by a friend, who regularly passes bags of books on to me. I think there's method to her madness - she doesn't have a lot of room to keep them herself and she knows I'm a pack rat. So by passing them on to me she knows where to come if she ever wants to re-read them. :-)
Anyway, the worst part of this book was realizing it was the third of a series. Now I won't be satisfied as until I find the other two!
The main character, Tyler, has a lot of emotional baggage and this is dealt with skillfully and logically. He and his estranged brothers went through hell growing up and he needs to face this before he can move on. Lily, too, has some emotional baggage to deal with before she can let go of the past and realize she's a small town girl at heart.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
7. Stetsons, Spring & Wedding Rings
by Jillian Hart, Judith Stacy, & Stacey Kayne
Rocky Mountain Courtship
A delightful tale of a young cowboy who mistakes a woman looking for a job as a maid for a mail-order bride. He's already in love with her when his real mail-order bride arrives, he just needs to convince her of it. I really enjoyed this story and the character of Clara, the maid. However, some of the phrases used by Joseph, the cowboy, seemed a little . . . juvenile. It was a little jarring in an otherwise great story.
Courting Miss Perfect
Things just seem to go from bad to worse for Brynn O'Keefe. Having suffered a humiliating incident in Virginia, she goes on a book tour with her Aunt, only to have her Aunt fall ill, forcing Brynn to have to continue the book tour on her own. As if that weren't enough, a Pinkerton agent accuses her of being a jewel thief. This was a fast paced, well done story and I loved the character of Brynn. My only complaint was that it wasn't longer.
Courted by the Cowboy
Constance Pauley is rescued from a fire by a handsome stranger who, unbeknownst to her, arranges for her medical care in a distant city. Two years later, her burns healed, she's ready to start a new life as a school teacher. It's by chance she's reunited with her benefactor, but they both have issues to overcome before they can share a life together. I loved the characters of Connie and Kyle. They're both damaged in spirit and yet they still persevere.
Rocky Mountain Courtship
A delightful tale of a young cowboy who mistakes a woman looking for a job as a maid for a mail-order bride. He's already in love with her when his real mail-order bride arrives, he just needs to convince her of it. I really enjoyed this story and the character of Clara, the maid. However, some of the phrases used by Joseph, the cowboy, seemed a little . . . juvenile. It was a little jarring in an otherwise great story.
Courting Miss Perfect
Things just seem to go from bad to worse for Brynn O'Keefe. Having suffered a humiliating incident in Virginia, she goes on a book tour with her Aunt, only to have her Aunt fall ill, forcing Brynn to have to continue the book tour on her own. As if that weren't enough, a Pinkerton agent accuses her of being a jewel thief. This was a fast paced, well done story and I loved the character of Brynn. My only complaint was that it wasn't longer.
Courted by the Cowboy
Constance Pauley is rescued from a fire by a handsome stranger who, unbeknownst to her, arranges for her medical care in a distant city. Two years later, her burns healed, she's ready to start a new life as a school teacher. It's by chance she's reunited with her benefactor, but they both have issues to overcome before they can share a life together. I loved the characters of Connie and Kyle. They're both damaged in spirit and yet they still persevere.
Monday, January 18, 2010
6. Alaskan Renegade
by Kate Bridges
Nurse Victoria Windhaven and medical student Cooper Sullivan are on a mission to bring much needed medical services into the wildness of the Alaskan goldrush. It's only natural that they need a bodyguard, but what isn't natural is that the bodyguard turns out to be Brant McQuaid, a man from Victoria's past.
When Victoria last knew Brant he was a bounty-hunter who was engaged to her older sister. She still felt the betrayal of the child she'd been but is forced to set aside her feelings when Cooper is kidnapped and she and Brant are the only ones who can save him.
Lots of action, lots of history and a strong cast of characters. It was a sneak attack book - one of those books that you're halfway through before you even realize it, it's such a fast read. Another definite keeper.
Nurse Victoria Windhaven and medical student Cooper Sullivan are on a mission to bring much needed medical services into the wildness of the Alaskan goldrush. It's only natural that they need a bodyguard, but what isn't natural is that the bodyguard turns out to be Brant McQuaid, a man from Victoria's past.
When Victoria last knew Brant he was a bounty-hunter who was engaged to her older sister. She still felt the betrayal of the child she'd been but is forced to set aside her feelings when Cooper is kidnapped and she and Brant are the only ones who can save him.
Lots of action, lots of history and a strong cast of characters. It was a sneak attack book - one of those books that you're halfway through before you even realize it, it's such a fast read. Another definite keeper.
5. Baby Bling
by Elle James
Yasabel Sanchez has worked for, and loved, shipping tycoon Jackson Champion for five years. When Jackson's fiance breaks off their engagement, he turns to his ever reliable assistant for comfort. The comfort turns into a night of steamy sex and even though Jackson left right afterwards for two months, he sees no reason to accept Yasabel's resignation. Things are made even more complicated when it's discovered that someone is trying to use Jackson's company to smuggle in supplies for terrorists. Even if he can't see how much he cares for Yasabel, someone else can and she becomes a target as his enemy seeks to hurt him through her. When she's kidnapped the race is on to find her before the madman who has her blows her, and the rest of Houston, up. But Yasabel has an even greater reason to live. She just needs to find the courage to share that reason with Jackson.
This was fast paced and exciting, with just the right amount of steaminess to it. I loved the way Yasabel stood up for herself in a difficult situation and I admired the way Jackson finally faced his fears. Definitely a keeper.
Yasabel Sanchez has worked for, and loved, shipping tycoon Jackson Champion for five years. When Jackson's fiance breaks off their engagement, he turns to his ever reliable assistant for comfort. The comfort turns into a night of steamy sex and even though Jackson left right afterwards for two months, he sees no reason to accept Yasabel's resignation. Things are made even more complicated when it's discovered that someone is trying to use Jackson's company to smuggle in supplies for terrorists. Even if he can't see how much he cares for Yasabel, someone else can and she becomes a target as his enemy seeks to hurt him through her. When she's kidnapped the race is on to find her before the madman who has her blows her, and the rest of Houston, up. But Yasabel has an even greater reason to live. She just needs to find the courage to share that reason with Jackson.
This was fast paced and exciting, with just the right amount of steaminess to it. I loved the way Yasabel stood up for herself in a difficult situation and I admired the way Jackson finally faced his fears. Definitely a keeper.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
4. Divine Fantasy
by Melanie Jackson
Joyous Jones, who starts out using her pen name of Audrey Atheneum, can't take another second of the holiday spirit she's surrounded with. She flees from Bavaria to a remote island in Fiji, hoping to reinvent herself.
There she meets Ambrose Bierce, who died in Mexico in 1914. Together they face zombies, gouls, a gollum and an 18 foot crocodile. And that's just for starters. It's enough to make any woman question the wisdom of starting a relationship with this man, let alone a woman who has a malformed heart that can't handle stress.
Though it was not quite what I expected when I started reading, I really enjoyed this book. It's refreshing to read about an immortal who isn't a vampire. Although it is part of an ongoing series, each book in the series can stand alone which, as I've said many times before, is the mark of a well done series.
I loved the main character and how "Audrey" became "Joyous". Though she started out by running away to reinvent herself, all she really needed to do was discover the person she was meant to be.
Joyous Jones, who starts out using her pen name of Audrey Atheneum, can't take another second of the holiday spirit she's surrounded with. She flees from Bavaria to a remote island in Fiji, hoping to reinvent herself.
There she meets Ambrose Bierce, who died in Mexico in 1914. Together they face zombies, gouls, a gollum and an 18 foot crocodile. And that's just for starters. It's enough to make any woman question the wisdom of starting a relationship with this man, let alone a woman who has a malformed heart that can't handle stress.
Though it was not quite what I expected when I started reading, I really enjoyed this book. It's refreshing to read about an immortal who isn't a vampire. Although it is part of an ongoing series, each book in the series can stand alone which, as I've said many times before, is the mark of a well done series.
I loved the main character and how "Audrey" became "Joyous". Though she started out by running away to reinvent herself, all she really needed to do was discover the person she was meant to be.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
First Three!
I'm thinking I might have underestimated my reading speed when I figured I could manange 52 books (one a week) for the reading challenge. We're one day short of the end of the first week and I've already got 3 under my belt.
They're all by the same author, Michele Bardsley, and all three from her Broken Heart series. If you've never read any of her Broken Heart books, then all I can say is: Get thee hence to a bookstore!
In a nutshell, Broken Heart is a small (fictional)town in Oklahoma that's been slowly dying - people moving out, businesses folding. Then in the space of one night everything changed when 11 single parents were killed by a rampaging vampire and turned into the undead.
Each book in the series tells a different story. Although the characters overlap and the location is the same, each story is able to stand on its own. This, to my mind, is just one of the things that makes this series great.
We have everything from vampires to werewolves, dragons to zombies. There's mystery, adventure, romance, and hot steaminess galore. :-)
If you'd like to see the whole list and read some excerpts, go HERE.
1. Wait till Your Vampire Gets Home is the story of paranormal investigator Libby Monroe who follows a trail of bizarre sightings straight to Broken Heart and into the arms of a sexy vampire. She's hit the mother lode of the paranormal, only she's not able to leave to tell anyone about it. Not that there's any rush to, especially once a dying dragon passes her powers to her.
2. Over My Dead Body is the tale of Simone Sweet, a single mother who sought refuge from her dark past in Broken Heart. She runs the town's garage, working nights because she's a vampire. Braddock Hayes was part of Libby's paranormal team and has secrets in his own past. They need to learn to trust each other enough to share their secrets if they're to have a future together.
3. Come Hell or High Water is the story of Phoebe Allen. She's lived in Broken Heart all her life and has gone from waitressing at the Sass Cafe to running the place. Oh, and she's a vampire who makes the mistake of having sex with sexy half demon/half fairy Conner. Why is it a mistake? Because when vampires have sex, it binds them to their partner for 100 years.
They're all by the same author, Michele Bardsley, and all three from her Broken Heart series. If you've never read any of her Broken Heart books, then all I can say is: Get thee hence to a bookstore!
In a nutshell, Broken Heart is a small (fictional)town in Oklahoma that's been slowly dying - people moving out, businesses folding. Then in the space of one night everything changed when 11 single parents were killed by a rampaging vampire and turned into the undead.
Each book in the series tells a different story. Although the characters overlap and the location is the same, each story is able to stand on its own. This, to my mind, is just one of the things that makes this series great.
We have everything from vampires to werewolves, dragons to zombies. There's mystery, adventure, romance, and hot steaminess galore. :-)
If you'd like to see the whole list and read some excerpts, go HERE.
1. Wait till Your Vampire Gets Home is the story of paranormal investigator Libby Monroe who follows a trail of bizarre sightings straight to Broken Heart and into the arms of a sexy vampire. She's hit the mother lode of the paranormal, only she's not able to leave to tell anyone about it. Not that there's any rush to, especially once a dying dragon passes her powers to her.
2. Over My Dead Body is the tale of Simone Sweet, a single mother who sought refuge from her dark past in Broken Heart. She runs the town's garage, working nights because she's a vampire. Braddock Hayes was part of Libby's paranormal team and has secrets in his own past. They need to learn to trust each other enough to share their secrets if they're to have a future together.
3. Come Hell or High Water is the story of Phoebe Allen. She's lived in Broken Heart all her life and has gone from waitressing at the Sass Cafe to running the place. Oh, and she's a vampire who makes the mistake of having sex with sexy half demon/half fairy Conner. Why is it a mistake? Because when vampires have sex, it binds them to their partner for 100 years.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Happy New Year
Happy New Year!
Lost Wanderer came up with a reading challenge. I've pledged to read a minimum of 52 books this year and I decided that what better place to keep track of them all than here?
And in case you follow the link and are wondering where I am . . . I'm the first person who commented on the post. That's my real name and me hiding behind my old camera.
Anyway, stay tuned for my progress, I've already started and will be having the first book post of the new year up soon.
Lost Wanderer came up with a reading challenge. I've pledged to read a minimum of 52 books this year and I decided that what better place to keep track of them all than here?
And in case you follow the link and are wondering where I am . . . I'm the first person who commented on the post. That's my real name and me hiding behind my old camera.
Anyway, stay tuned for my progress, I've already started and will be having the first book post of the new year up soon.
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