And One Last Thing by Molly Harper

In Molly Harpers, And One Last Thing, we meet Lacey Terwilliger who has just found out that her husband is cheating on her with his secretary.. the nerve! Like any woman scorned, she is blinded by the sheer fact that she wants REVENGE! So she sends out an e-mail detailing her husbands philandering ways... what she didn't expect was the fallout.

In the hopes of hiding out for a while, Lacey makes a quick escape, and goes out to her family's lakeside cabin. There she meets neighbor Monroe - dark, brooding and definitely not looking for any drama in his life.

Lacey will definitely have to make some important decisions - her career/job, her marriage, decide on permanent living arrangements... and whether she can be with a man who is blunt and honest and does not tell her what she wants to hear...

This is chick lit at its finest. Molly Harper not only gives you a fun, spunky and witty heroine - but she also gives you a very quirky tale about one woman's life going up in flames and how she proudly emerges from its ashes.

I have to say that I absolutely loved how not only do we get some real emotions but we also get some zany, wacky and more than once laugh-out-loud moments all wrapped up into this one great story. Lacey is a phenomenal leading lady. She always finds herself in some sort of trouble (mostly by her own doing) and when you finally think she's in the clear, she jumps right into another load of trouble. Monroe and his Hugh Jackman looks... well, need I say more. There were also some very lovable and endearing supporting characters (i.e. Lacey's brother, Emmett, the husband-stealing secretary, Maya - Lacey's potential work partner, etc.).

Although very entertaining, Lacey's feelings, emotions and growth throughout the story were realistically depicted. You really get to know her, she literally feels like a friend by the end of the book. Very well done.

This is one that I can highly recommend to fans of chick lit or even contemporary romance. It has just the right amount of ingredients to make it a very enjoyable read. Loved it.

This book was provided for review by Simon and Schuster.

Forget You by Jennifer Echols

There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up his twenty-four- year old girlfriend. Like Zoey’s fear that the whole town will find out about her mom’s nervous breakdown. Like darkly handsome bad boy Doug taunting her at school. Feeling like her life is about to become a complete mess, Zoey fights back the only way she knows how, using her famous attention to detail to make sure she’s the perfect daughter, the perfect student, and the perfect girlfriend to ultra-popular football player Brandon. But then Zoey is in a car crash, and the next day there’s one thing she can’t remember at all—the entire night before. Did she go parking with Brandon, like she planned? And if so, why does it seem like Brandon is avoiding her? And why is Doug—of all people— suddenly acting as if something significant happened between the two of them? Zoey dimly remembers Doug pulling her from the wreck, but he keeps referring to what happened that night as if it was more, and it terrifies Zoey to admit how much is a blank to her. Controlled, meticulous Zoey is quickly losing her grip on the all-important details of her life—a life that seems strangely empty of Brandon, and strangely full of Doug. [via GoodReads]

As a big fan of Going Too Far, you must know how anxiously I was waiting for the release of Forget You. I had my doubts it would be as good, but I was still being optimistic, and let me tell you, my positive thinking was on the money. This book not only met my expectations but it surpassed them ... Hooray!

Although Forget You is totally different from what I expected - I was expecting something more along the lines of a light teen romance possibly even a beach read. Instead I found a book with many layers - touching on some dark topics.

The story mostly revolves around Zoey Commander. Zoey is dealing with some heavy issues - after her mother's attempt at suicide she ends up living with her father and his 24 year old girlfriend whom he recently knocked up. Her life is upside down and no matter how hard she tries to keep it right side up - it just seems like she's drowning. She makes some very rash decisions throughout the novel. I cringed every time she brought up her relationship with Brandon and how he was her boyfriend.

After her accident and the ensuing amnesia, the story really picked up. First there's Doug... le sigh. (I must admit, Ms. Echols has a way of making you fall for her leading men. She sure did that for Doug.) Zoey thinking she'd find support in her "boyfriend" Brandon was surprised to see he just wasn't coming around but everywhere she turned Doug was there. She knows something happened the night leading to her accident she just can't remember anything of it. She spends most of the story acting as if she knows what happened in order to figure out what really happened... and the best part of it all is that you, as the reader, are just as clueless as she is. So obviously the pages are flying by as we uncover the truth of that night which slowly unravels throughout the story.

I loved all the characters! Zoey was young and dealing with a lot, I can't say that I agreed with some of her actions, but in the end I did understand why she acted the way she did. Doug was the sweetest thing. He looked out for Zoey and any man that can keep a secret because a girl asks him to is okay in my book. Zoey's parents - Mr. Commander is an a-hole. I despised this man yet I also felt sorry for him. I think if the story had an epilogue taking place about 10 years down the line (maybe not even that long) we'd hear that Ashley (the knocked-up girlfriend) left him for a younger man and took half his assets with her. Mrs. Commander was a woman scorned. Yes, she did try to commit suicide, but she was stressed and had too much going on and she acted without thinking.... nothing a good therapist can't resolve. Brandon was clueless. He really had no bad feelings, he was a boy who loved girls. Zoey knows, you know this, I'm not sure how we got off track with him. The other characters, although minor, were also fleshed out and really gave the story more depth.

The romance aspect of the story was intense. The push and pull between Zoey and Doug felt real. You can feel the sexual tension building between them. Their more intimate moments were very well done, they were sweet and full of passion and tension. I think these moments were what really completed the whole package for me. (these moments might not be suitable for younger teens)

All in all, I found Forget You to be an emotional, intense and expressive read. Ms. Echols has a way with words - her writing, her characters and her setting (in this case a northern Florida beach) really played a lot into making this book so very enjoyable. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next! I am now convinced of her awesomeness and she has now been upgraded to auto-buy, so I know I won't be missing out on it - I hope you won't either.

This book was provided for review by Simon and Schuster.


GIVEAWAY: 2 copies are up for grabs.

As always, leave a comment for one entry. If you'd like extra entries just say so in your comment or separate comments (extra entries for followers, Twitter, sidebars, All About {n} button, Facebook, etc.) Make sure to leave an e-mail address, especially if you are leaving comment under Anonymous.

Rules: This contest is open to U.S. residents only. Winners will be drawn Sunday, August 8.

Vision in White by Nora Roberts

After years of throwing make-believe weddings in the backyard, flowers, photography, desserts, and details are what these women do best: a guaranteed perfect, beautiful day full of memories to last the rest of your life. 

With bridal magazine covers to her credit, Mackensie "Mac" Elliot is most at home behind the camera - ready to capture the happy moments she never experienced while growing up. Her father replaced his first family with a second, and now her mother, moving on to yet another man, beg Mac for attention and money. Mac's foundation is jostled again moments before an important wedding planning meeting when she bumps into the bride-to-be's brother...an encounter that has them both seeing stars. 

Carter Maquire is definitely not her type: he's stable, and he's safe. He's even an English teacher at their high school alma mater. There's something about him that makes Mac think a casual fling is just what she needs to take her mind off dealing with bridezillas and screening her mother's phone calls. But a casual fling can turn into something more when you least expect it. And with the help of her three best friends - and business partners - Mac must learn how to make her own happy memories. [via GoodReads]

First things first, I have a confession... this is my first Nora Roberts book. I know, I know, and no, I have not been living under a rock. I've always stayed away from her books because I am not much of a contemporary romance reader, and also because I have always felt that she writes for an older crowd. Don't ask me why I've been under that impression.

With that said, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I actually enjoyed this first book in the quartet. Not only did I find the writing hip and young, but the characters are all around my age (early 30's) so I really felt that I could relate.

This book really is the ultimate girly book - for no other reason then the fact that it revolves around weddings. I don't know about you guys, but I love weddings - not only being in one, but also attending them. I loved being a bride, I still do not regret the amounts of money we spent on our wedding, the pictures, the cake, the gifts... and this book really helps you reminisce and capture that joy once again.

Apart from the beautiful weddings, I think Ms. Roberts does a phenomenal job of capturing the friendships the four girls have. I truly loved their dynamics. They each have their own job/duties in running the premier wedding service that "Vows" provides. Piper - the wedding coordinator; Mackenzie - the photographer; Emmaline - florist extraordinaire and Laurel - the wedding cake designer. They all live right on the estate and are at the beck and call of each other. I absolutely adored this set-up. They were so tight, and deep and just had each others backs.

As for the romance, it was definitely sigh worthy. In comes Carter - literally - since he comes into Mac's house when she's shirtless - and out goes Carter - like literally - since he bangs his head so hard on her door that he almost passes out. I really liked the way their relationship unfolds... slowly and by these sweet increments, it really gave it a realistic aspect. It wasn't something where they meet, they fall madly in love, they jump in bed and they're married. No, this was a slow progression, that I think really worked. Mac has many issues, but I think Carter handled everything quite nicely, nothing some gentle persuasion couldn't accomplish.

I have always enjoyed a good story about relationships whether it's about romance, friendship or family - and in this book you will find all three. As with any romance, there is always a happy ending (at least in the one's I like to read), but I truly enjoy when a girl has to work for her happy ever after - and you definitely get that here.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I think it's a nice start to what I hope will be a very special series.

My Rating:

Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean

A lady does not smoke cheroot. She does not ride astride. She does not fence or attend duels. She does not fire a pistol, and she never gambles at a gentlemen's club.

Lady Calpurnia Hartwell has always followed the rules, rules that have left her unmarried—and more than a little unsatisfied. And so she's vowed to break the rules and live the life of pleasure she's been missing.

But to dance every dance, to steal a midnight kiss—to do those things, Callie will need a willing partner. Someone who knows everything about rule-breaking. Someone like Gabriel St. John, the Marquess of Ralston—charming and devastatingly handsome, his wicked reputation matched only by his sinful smile.

If she's not careful, she'll break the most important rule of all—the one that says that pleasure-seekers should never fall hopelessly, desperately in love . . . [via GoodReads]

Oh, but I loved this book! One of my fave reads of the year thus far. See, I picked this up because I had read a couple of reviews on it and they were saying how gloriously wonderful it was and yada yada yada. So, I picked it up because I figured it couldn't be that great - but YES, it was that great.

This book has everything that I love in a Regency romance. The heroine is not your average damsel in distress. Oh no, Callie is on-the-shelf, and doomed to a life of spinsterhood. Thus the list is born... to smoke a cheroot, drink scotch, ride astride, fence, attend a duel, fire a pistol, to gamble at a gentleman's club, dance every dance at a ball, be considered beautiful (just once), to kiss someone passionately. And she sets right off and does exactly that... well, kiss someone passionately that is (that someone being Gabriel, the Marquess of Ralston, known as a notorious rake and the man who Callie has crushed on for the past decade) and thus our journey begins.

What really made this book stand out for me from the rest:
The fact that Callie is plain and plump really made her appealing to me. I liked the fact that she wasn't a stunning beauty with a willowy frame. The fact that Gabriel loved her with no prejudice as to her curves and looks really worked for me. As for Gabriel, I thought it refreshing that he wasn't a man running from commitment or love, but instead he had issues with relationships because of his parents' disastrous marriage. All the supporting characters were loads of fun as well - especially the siblings. There were brilliant laugh-out-loud moments, the witty banter and teasing between Gabriel and Callie will leave you smiling, and the tension/romance was just perfect. Oh, and I forgot to mention the hot and heavy scenes were well just that... hot and heavy. Very sexy (something that I rarely find in historicals)... I'm just saying. ;)

Overall, this was a tremendously enjoyable read and one that I highly recommend to lovers of romance (no matter what your favorite sub-genre is) this will appeal to everyone.

True Love: Three Novels by Lurlene McDaniel

True Love consists of three novels written by Lurlene McDaniel which make up this 600+ page tome.

Don't Die My Love
Julie Ellis and Luke Muldenhower have been together since the sixth grade. They're now in high school and still love each other unconditionally. Luke is the star quarterback on the football team. They lack for nothing - popularity, good grades, but especially love. They are considering what colleges they plan on attending, Luke is expecting a full scholarship as an athlete, everything is looking up for them. That is, until the day Luke confesses that he hasn't been feeling all that well. He has been lethargic, weak and has been losing weight. Upon examination it is discovered that Luke has Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Not only is Luke's life in jeopardy but will their love be able to surpass such a devastating blow?


I'll be Seeing You
Kyle Westin is blinded when a chemistry experiment goes wrong. While at the hospital he meets Carley Mattea. As their friendship and their feelings for one another grow, Carley suffers more and more knowing that she hasn't been truly honest with Kyle. For although Kyle is blind he is a very good looking young man. But Carley is not pretty - her face is deformed and she cannot help but doubt that Kyle would still love her if he really knew how she looked. Will their love be able to overcome the superficial or will that age old battle between beauty on the outside rather than the inside prevail?

A Rose for Melinda
Told in epistolary fashion using letters, journal entries, e-mails, doctors' reports and instant messages, chronicles the relationship between Melinda and Jesse. They have known each other most of their lives and although they now live away from each other and Melinda has been accepted into the Washington School of Classical Dance’s summer program through their correspondence we are able to learn that Melinda has been diagnosed with leukemia and how this affects her dream of becoming a prima ballerina.

I can definitely see why Lurlene McDaniel's novels are a hit with teen girls. Her stories all pretty much have the same recipe - usually one or both of the main characters is suffering from a traumatic illness or injury and how these events affect their relationships. The romance in all three stories was very sweet and clean, very G-rated. I think Ms. McDaniel definitely has a way of connecting with young girls through their feelings relating to love, loss, hopes and dreams. Each story had a good message and I think that's important on books for young adults. I do have to tell you one thing though, I literally sobbed while reading some parts of these stories. I recommend that you keep tissues handy (and by tissues I mean a whole box of them). I mean my chest hurt by the time I was done reading this book.

All in all, this was a sweet book with some very lovely, if sad and depressing stories. I would recommend to young girls or anyone looking for a book where they can just have a good cry while reading it.

Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran

She’s pretty enough to be popular, and Lord knows she’s rich enough for it. But what society loves best about Gwen Maudsley is how very, very nice she is. So when a cad jilts her at the altar—again—an outraged London brays for blood. Only Gwen has a different plan. If nice no longer works for her, then it’s time to learn to be naughty. Happily, she knows the perfect tutor—Alexander Ramsey, her late brother’s best friend and a notorious rogue.

Unbeknownst to Gwen, Alex’s aloof demeanor veils a very personal interest in her. He has no desire to see her change, nor to tempt himself with her presence when his own secrets make any future between them impossible. But on an educational tour through the glittering casinos of the Riviera, their friendship gives way to something hotter, darker, and altogether more dangerous. With Alex’s past and Gwen’s wildness on a collision course, Gwen must convince Alex that his wickedest intentions are exactly what she needs. [via GoodReads]

I have to confess this is my first Meredith Duran romance. I know, I know, you must be asking yourself if I've been living under a rock right about now... if it makes you feel better, I do own two of her previous works I just haven't gotten around to reading them (bows head in shame). So with that said... wth have I been thinking not to read Meredith Duran before?!?

Ms. Duran is brilliant! I loved her characters. Gwen the jilted (for the second time) super nice, super sweet girl. Alex the rake... I love me a rake. A woman fed up with being the good girl and swearing to live WICKED. A man who has no other recourse but to take care of her (as promised to her late brother) and make sure she gets into no trouble. They were the perfect match with dynamic chemistry, quick wit, and plenty of sigh-worthy moments. And, as if that weren't enough, there's also a bit of a mystery to be solved (although this is not the major plot line in the story). I found this to be more of a character driven novel with plenty of romance, laugh out loud moments, and loads and loads of wickedness (at least what you'd consider wicked for a girl living in the 1890's). Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure through Paris, Nice and Monte Carlo and learn that love comes when you least expect it. This is historical romance at its best and one that I would not hesitate in recommending.

This book was provided for review by Simon & Schuster.

Flirting with Forever by Gwyn Cready

Art historian Campbell Stratford is about to make a name for herself with her scandalously sexy tell-all “fictographies” of famous seventeenth-century artists, but she’s more iintimately familiar with her subjects than her eager readers can imagine. Thanks to a time portal she accidentally discovered, she has caused quite a stir in the Great Beyond. To save their reputations, the Guild protecting dead artists convinces playboy Peter Lely, portraitist to the king, to sabotage Cam’s latest project. A few hours posing on Sir Peter’s modeling chaise leads to a night of seductive passion—then Cam returns home and discovers his betrayal. But before she can turn her angry pen on her lover, Sir Peter makes a surprise visit to the future and transforms Cam’s twenty-first-century life into chaos of classic proportions. [via GoodReads]

I've never really read a time travel romance and I think Ms. Cready has opened my eyes to a whole new genre. I really like the way the time travel bit is done in this story. I think there was good development when it came to both the 17th century and the present time. I never found myself confused or disoriented as to what time frame I was in. I'm sure there was a lot of homework done by Ms. Cready to accomplish that with such vivid details.

I have to admit that it had a slow start for me but once Cam is swept away into the 17th century and Peter is in the picture... well, needless to say, it picked up rather quickly after that. There were some very funny moments scattered throughout that not only brought a smile to my face but more than once had me laughing out loud. From Cam's zany antics trying to text message and get enough bars to make a call on her iPhone to her use of names that were definitely not recognized in the 17th century (i.e. Antonio Banderas, Katie Holmes, etc.)

This was a fast-paced romance with plenty of drama, mystery and comedy all wrapped up within that uber cute cover (love the shoes). Not to mention there was that age-old struggle in choosing happiness over ambition. All in all, it was a fun, sexy romp that I found very entertaining.

As a side note, there's this fantastic scene where Cam plays Peter's muse that was utterly steamy and toe-curl worthy. le sigh. ;)

This book was provided for review by Simon & Schuster.

Into the Dark by Gena Showalter

Into the Dark is an anthology containing short stories (formerly e-books) that Gena Showalter has written mostly related to her Lords of the Underworld series. I would consider this more of a companion book as the stories are not precisely of any of the Lords.

The Darkest Fire - I would say is a prequel to the first story in the series - since it takes place long before the demons are living within the Lords. This the story of Geryon, guardian of the gates of hell and, Kadence, the Goddess of Oppression. Geryon is in charge of making sure that no soul tries to escape hell. While Kadence is somehow connected to the wall that keeps these souls in. When trouble strikes in the form of our pesky demons (i.e. Pain, Lies, Doubt, Violence, etc.) cracking the wall, it is up to Kadence and Geryon to travel into the depths of hell and put a stop to it. If they are not successful, not only will those same evil, foul demons escape, but Kadence, who is bonded to the wall will perish. ~ This story had a Beauty and the Beast feeling to it. Geryon was cursed by Lucifer and is a hideous beast, but Kadence's feelings for him are genuine and she sees him as a beautiful being. Their love story was very touching.

The Amazon's Curse - is the sequel to The Vampire's Bride. I never read The Vampire's Bride (TVB) so I had never heard of any of these characters before. From what I can tell, the story picks up right after TVB finishes and you find yourself in the humid jungle amongst an amazonian, female camp. There you encounter Zane - a vampire who is being held against his will as a slave. The females are fighting over who will be the one to obtain him as a mate. You also meet Nola, who has been cursed by the Gods and is invisible. She knows Zane (I'm assuming from TVB) and tries to help him, but she's completely invisible. That is until she begins to accept her feelings for him and therefore regaining her true self little by litte. ~ This was a very short story and one I got the feeling that there might be more to this story.

The Darkest Prison - (takes place in between The Darkest Pleasure and The Darkest Whisper) is the story of two Gods, Atlas the God of Strength and, Nike, the Goddess of Strength. They are fated to be enemies. Atlas was held in Tartarus during the ruling of the Greek Gods and while there he tried to seduce Nike (one of the prison's guards) in order to obtain freedom. His plan almost worked had it not been for Nike running into another female guard who also spoke of Atlas' attentions. As any woman scorned would, she not only made sure he did not escape, but she tattooed her name on his chest so he never forgot "who owned him" (love that). Now that the Titans have overthrown the Greeks, it is Nike who is being held prisoner and finds herself imprisoned by none other than Atlas. But he soon realizes that his feelings for Nike were more genuine then he originally expected. ~ This was by far my favorite story in the book. I loved the love/hate relationship between these star-crossed lovers.

Awakening Pandora - are the first three chapters of what would have eventually been the plot to the series, but eventually got scrapped for what we now know as the storyline for the Lords. I'm thankful really, because although it was interesting, I really like what Gena has done in this series.

After these first four stories, there are two interview type areas. One is titled At Home with the Lords of the Underworld. There William (Anya's hottie friend) is asking the Lords questions. I found myself laughing out loud throughout most of it. Not only are William's questions hysterical, but he is just an all around funny guy. It was great to hear the answers from the Lords as well as some cameo's from some of their significant others. The second section is titled Women of the Underworld Speak. Here we find the women all gathered with Gilly (Danika's friend) who is holding court over the women and it's just girl gossip and discussing what they like and don't like about the powerful men in the house. These two sections were hilarious and loads of fun and I think my favorite parts in the whole book. And finally, we get a sneak peak into the upcoming The Darkest Passion.

For fans of the series, this is definitely one you will want to acquire for your collection. Like I said, it is more of a companion book, but definitely needed to have your series complete. The stories were short but they were riddled with tidbits of information that you will find useful and will give you the "fix" you need until the next installment in the series releases.

This book was provided for review by Harlequin through NetGalley.

The Girl with Glass Feet by Ali Shaw

Ida MacLaird visited St. Hauda's island a year ago. There she met a man named Henry Fuwa who spoke of creatures such as the moth-winged cattle and a beast whose glance could turn anything to pure white. When the tips of her toes begin to turn to glass, she can think of no other person that can help her other than Henry and she is quite certain that whatever her mysterious affliction is, she obtained it while at St. Hauda's.

Midas Crook is somewhat of a loner. He hides behind his camera and only sees the world through its potential for photographic composition. He happens to run across Ida one day while in the woods and can't seem to stop the impulse to want to photograph her, to know her, to find out what is causing her such unhappiness. He tries to fight his feelings for her - but her sad, defiant spirit calls to him and he finds himself waging a war with time. For Midas has to put his past behind him, and that includes the memories of his cruel father, his tortured mother and his insecurities and embrace the opportunity he has found in Ida... the chance at true love. But love won't be enough if they can't find a way to stave off the spread of the glass.

Let me start by saying that I picked this book up because I fell in love with its stunning cover. I never even got around to reading its synopsis, I just saw it, loved it and read it. For some reason, I assumed it would be a YA title - don't know why I was under that assumption, so needless to say, I was surprised to find an adult fairytale-type story within the pages of The Girl with Glass Feet.

Although you would think this is Ida's story, it really is more about Midas. As they struggle to find a cure for the rapidly spreading ice, the relationship between them grows into something unexpected. It is through Ida's perseverance that she is able to break through Midas' memories, inhibitions and introverted nature and bring him fully into the present, to be alive... with her, before it's too late.

It did take me a couple of chapters to actually get into the storyline. But from the first page, I found myself taken in by the whimsical (even mythical) descriptions we get of St. Hauda's. It didn't take very long before I found myself completely immersed and needing to read more about the complicated characters that are Midas and Ida.

Midas made me feel anxious and exasperated - I wanted to grab him and just shake him and yell at him to snap out of it before love simply slipped away. He had the pressure of his father's suicide and I know he preferred to see life through his camera, but he was just letting life pass him by. Then there was Ida - she was spunky, well-traveled, spontaneous, but slowly turning to glass. I loved how she was able to overlook Midas' flaws, and see the goodness in him.

This was a very unusual love story and one that I found even more peculiar since the fact that she was turning to glass never really surprised anyone. You'd think if I showed you my glass feet you would somehow panic or freak out in some way... but no, these characters just saw it for what it was... she's turning into glass, so let's find a cure. I found that rather odd, but then again, so were the moth-winged cattle and the technicolor jellyfish. I think the author does a good job of bringing all the fantastical elements in the novel together with the realism and genuine relationships scattered throughout.

It definitely had a lot of potential but it left me feeling as if some things were left unanswered. I also really wished some of the more magical elements were brought more into perspective. Overall I found this to be a unique and interesting read - but not one I would recommend to everyone.

A Touch of Scandal by Jennifer Haymore

We originally meet Garrett in Ms. Haymore's, A Hint of Wicked. There you find him fighting for his wife, Sophie, who after years of believing he is dead, has fallen in love and now married to Tristan, none other than Garrett's best friend. After a couple of scuffles, a very "sexy" fantasy, and a wild chase along the countryside, Sophie makes her choice and Garrett finds himself in the midst of a divorce.

On the search for his enemy (and luckily for him), he somehow finds himself bathing in Kate's "secret" pond. When Kate sees him for the first time she believes he is a God sent from Olympus. She finds herself rushing through her daily chores in order to make it in time to the pond and catch glimpses of him. Once he catches her spying on him, they both find themselves attracted to one another, almost as if their souls were waiting to find each other. But their brief happiness is abruptly put to a halt when Garrett finds out that Kate is her enemy's sister and Kate realizes that Garrett is the Duke of Calton... someone well above her station.

I have been looking forward to this book from the moment that I read the last page of A Hint of Wicked. Garrett was very intriguing and I wanted to read his story and for him to get his "happily-ever-after" soooo bad. So, needless to say, I was stoked when allowed to be part of this blog tour.

Garrett was all that I wanted him to be and more (yes, I admit it, he was all that and a bag of chips!) He was the sort of man who overlooked Kate's disheveled state and looked upon the beauty within.

Kate is everything that I think I would be if I were in Regency England... unladylike, outspoken, honest, trustworthy and completely devoted to her family (even though they treat her so badly). Not to mention, unconventionally beautiful.

There were so many factors that I loved about this story. For starters, there was the whole love at first sight thing (swoons) - love that. Then there were the surprising plot twists, former mistresses, ex-wives and that age-old seducer, forbidden love.

Really, what more could a girl ask for? It was perfect!

I will end this review with just one last word... Auto-buy! (that's one word, right?!) =D

This book was provided for review by Hachette Book Group.

My Rating:

Lessons in French by Laura Kinsale

"It was quite settled by now. She was born to be a spinster. The gentlemen would have to declare their undying devotion to other ladies. Callie would be too much occupied with developing a delicate constitution and a dependable recipe for tapioca-jelly."

She is, after all, Lady Callista Taillefaire, jilted three times in spite of her fortune and her father's best efforts to find her a husband. Now her greatest desire is to win the silver cup at the agricultural fair with her gigantic prize bull, Hubert. But when Callie's only old flame returns from his long and mysterious absence in France, her quiet spinster life turns upside down.

Dark-eyed, elegant and a magnet for trouble, Trevelyan d'Augustin has given Callie lessons in more than his language in the past. Her father put a harsh and humiliating end to any dreams of romance with a French émigré scoundrel, however, and Callie never thought to see him again. Swallowing his pride, Trev has finally come home to care for his failing mother, but his secrets and misdeeds follow him.

Callie soon remembers that nothing is ever peaceful with Trev around. The enormous Hubert vanishes into thin air, one of her former jilts comes back to woo her in a most determined manner--and her bull takes the town by storm! In the midst of these misadventures, Callie finds herself falling in love again with the worst possible man for her... [via GoodReads]

This was such a fun story. Ms. Kinsale is very talented when it comes to creating her characters and their witty dialogue. I thought Callie and Trev were amazing together - their chemistry, their conversations, the situations they can't help but find themselves in - it was pure joy to read. Some of the secondary characters were quite fun too, I especially enjoyed Trev's maman.

There really was never a dull moment for Callie and Trev. There were so many obstacles thrown in the way of their love - and on more than one occasion I questioned their "happily ever after." But needless to say, love conquers all, and I thought everything was wrapped up rather nicely.

I love a historical romance that takes place in the early 1800's - and even more so when it relates to country life. I loved all the descriptions of the village and the local villagers as well as what information we received of life after the Napoleonic Wars.

All in all, Lessons in French has everything a reader is looking for in a light-hearted historical romance. You will laugh, you will cry, you will sigh - you really can't ask for more.

This book provided for review by Sourcebooks.

The Nightwalkers Series by Jacquelyn Frank

Jacob is the first in The Nightwalkers Series. He's an elder, over 600 years old, and the Enforcer of his demon brethren. He is the only one who can uphold justice when a demon is overtaken by the madness. A madness that will lead them down a path that can eventually harm the human that they become obsessed with. For humans are forbidden to demons - punishable by the Enforcer himself. Jacob has never succumbed to the madness himself - but when a tiny, spitfire by the name of Isabella literally falls into his arms he had no idea his whole world was about to change - and that he would be the one that would be breaking the rules.

Isabella was the perfect match for Jacob. Where he is calm - she is explosive. I absolutely loved her character. She was downright funny at times and I definitely found myself laughing out loud more than once. I loved their interactions, dialogue and, of course, romantic interludes. I am a big fan of paranormal/soulmate romances, and this one fit the bill. Bella's encounters with the Demon kind was great because you go on the journey with her. Every new discovery is a thrill to her as well as to you as the reader. There was plenty of action (and I mean that in more than one way ::wink-wink::). With the threat of Necromancers and Jacob and Bella trying to save themselves and their friends, there was never a dull moment. I loved the introduction to most of the characters you will be encountering within the upcoming books (i.e. Gideon, Noah, Elijah, Magdalegna, etc.) I think out of all 5 books this was my favorite. Although one of the one's with the most action, it also was the one with the lightest feel to it.

Gideon the Ancient is the oldest male Demon in existence. He is revered by their kind which at times makes him come off as arrogant and domineering. He is a demon of the body and can appear anywhere as a hologram (think Star Trek) that he is needed - which comes in quite handy since he is also the proverbial "medicine man" for his kind.

Magdalegna is the Demon King's youngest sister. Although still considered young (only 250 years old), she has always had a thing for "older man" Gideon. But she has loved him from afar for near a decade - about 9 years ago, Gideon spurned her advances, insulting her terribly and landing him in isolation for the remainder of that time. But due to some unforeseen circumstances (Book 1), he is now back in Magdalegna's life and he will not stop himself from getting what he wants this time.

Sadly, I really didn't get Gideon. I don't mean the book - I mean the demon. He fell flat for me. I really liked Magdalegna - she had this elegant and diplomatic charm to her. She was fierce and protective and she definitely knew how to stand her ground. But Gideon was just too blah for me. I really didn't like that he treated her as a child (although he did get over that quickly enough) and also the fact that he has silver hair - I just couldn't get the picture of him as an old man out of my mind. This one did not have as much action as Jacob did, and it did have a lot of repetition in the beginning (to get you up to speed if you didn't read the first book in the series). I did enjoy that Bella and Jacob were once again in the mix of it all and I also enjoyed the introductions to a few new characters (i.e. Siena the Lycanthrope Queen and Damien the Vampire Prince). All in all, it was a bit mediocre for me, but not unbearable. I definitely am intrigued and really like the Nightwalker world Ms. Frank has created.

Elijah - the Demon King's Warrior Captain is a force to be reckoned with. He is a master of every weapon and a fierce protector of his people. He has never lost a fight, but when he is ambushed and left for dead by Necromancer's - he is discovered by the one woman who just might finish the job.

Siena, the Lycanthrope Queen, finds Elijah at the brink of death. She has done everything in her power since she's been on the throne to pacify the discord between her people and the demons. But the war between their kinds took a toll on their trust, and although they have been at peace, for a little shy of a decade, it is still something that is on shaky ground. When she comes across the man who lead the warriors that killed hundreds of her lycanthrope brethren, including her father, the former King, she can only think of helping him live. But Elijah quickly realizes that he needs more from Siena then just a nurse and what starts off as attraction soon burns into a passion with consequences that will affect both their people.

Ms. Frank definitely redeemed herself in my eyes with Elijah. I absolutely loved this "odd" pairing. And I don't mean odd because they are from different races, I found them odd since Elijah spent a lot of time killing Lycanthrope's thanks to the war Siena's father started. I enjoyed learning about the Lycanthrope's and their culture. It was a treat to read of Siena and Elijah falling in love. I was somewhat annoyed at how much they fought against their feelings for one another but once those bridges were crossed they made a great pair. The struggles that Siena faced when it came to sharing her throne and the fears of her people were a big part of the story but it only gave you a better feel for the Lycanthropes. As if this was not enough to keep you on edge, the story was also riddled with all sorts of bedlam - from Necromancers to traitorous demons.

A great addition to the series - with plenty of cameo's from the characters from previous books. I love that you get to see how things are going in those relationships and introductions to upcoming one's. The universe that Ms. Frank has created is full and rich with a lot of depth - making me devour these books in a couple of hours and crying out for the next one.

Damien is the Vampire Prince. Vampires on a whole are quite fickle in nature - they never find pleasure in one thing for too long. Damien, being the oldest and strongest of his kind, has lived such a life, but has grown tired of it and devotes his energies to protecting his people. The war between Necromancers and Nightwalkers has escalated, and when Syreena, a Lycanthrope Princess, is kidnapped, Damien boldly follows to rescue her.

Syreena has lived under the heavy restrictions of the monks that she has lived with most of her life. As the heir to the Lyncathrope throne, unless her sister, Siena (the Lycanthrope Queen) has children, she is gifted with rare abilities and has been taught since a young age never to form attachments to others. But she can't help the connection she forges with Damian and the passion that ignites between them is impossible for either to resist. But their mating can lead to dangerous repercussions that not only threaten them, but all the Nightwalkers - with enemies that are much more stronger than any faced before.

I love that Ms. Frank has no boundaries when it comes to inter-racial relationships. A Vampire and a Lycanthrope - odd, but it totally worked. Damian is the (delicious) brooding vampire , but I loved that his feelings for Syreena literally brought him to his knees. That just kills me in a vamp. I think out of all the books in the series - their relationship was the most intense for me. They had these scenes that were violent and erotic, but sensual all in one. With so many obstacles in the way, there was many a heated debate between them, but the romance and the outstanding threat kept me on edge. Once again, I was not let down with this one, it is a good continuation in the series leaving plenty of different routes it can take from here. I am definitely intrigued and can honestly say that I am a devoted fan now.

Last (for now), but definitely not least, in the series is Noah. The Demon King has no intentions in claiming a mate, for his only goal is to protect his kind from their human and Nightwalker enemies. But for the past six months this has become more and more difficult for him. Not only have most of his friends found their significant others, but he has been having vivid dreams of a woman that has him on the brink of madness. When he finally gets the courage to go out of his way and find this mysterious woman, knowing that she is his mate, it is only to watch her die. He risks everything (from relationships to his life) on a daring experiment to go back in time and save her. But even saving her may not be enough, because now he has to find a way to win the heart of a woman so scarred she may not be able to love.

Kestra is a successful mercenary who works for the highest bidder, but she is also a woman who has suffered terrible losses in her life. When she finds herself running from danger and lands in the arms of a powerful male, she can't help but wonder where she's seen him before.

I have to admit that this is the book that I looked forward to the most throughout this series. You meet Noah from the first book and you can't help but look forward to the day where you read his story... and I was not disappointed. This book had everything romance, mystery, suspense, it was sensual and erotic. It had the perfect blend of all these elements that made it such a fantastic read. Kestra's story was heartbreaking - the trauma and loss that she suffered brought tears to my eyes and I am so glad that she found her mate in Noah. Someone who could protect and treasure her, yet let her be the strong vibrant woman that she is. Obviously there was plenty of scuffle between them while they got the gist of their relationship... with a lot of tantrums, tears and walking-off moments, but nonetheless, this is what made them unique and endearing in my eyes.

Although there are still quite a few loose ends, especially when it comes to the bad guys who seem to be MIA throughout this story, but hopefully that will be remedied when Ms. Frank publishes the next book in the series. I'm not sure who that story will be about - but I can't wait to find out.


I love this new take on demons, on Nightwalkers in general, turning them into an ancient race of honorable, magical beings, who get their powers from the earth and protect humans. It is a bit reminiscent of Christine Feehan's Carpathian series, but since I am a big fan of that series too, this definitely was a big hit with me. I absolutely loved the characters, my favorites still being Jacob and Bella, and how, no matter what book you were reading, you still had a glimpse into the lives of each of the couples you read of earlier in the series. In these books you also get an introduction to The Shadowdwellers, Ms. Frank's breakout series (which I've already begun reading). All in all, as a series, I highly recommend them. They hold plenty of romance, action and suspense. And, if you're anything like me, you'll get your hands on all five books and read them back to back within a couple of days. Yes, I know, they were that addictive. Loved them and can't wait for the next in the series.

Fireworks Over Toccoa by Jeffrey Stepakoff

Lily was married for just days before her husband was sent abroad to fight in WWII. Now, he and the other soldiers are returning, and the small town of Toccoa, Georgia plans a big celebration. But a handsome and kind Italian immigrant, responsible for the elaborate fireworks display the town commissioned captures Lily's heart and soul. Torn between duty to society and her husband, and a poor, passionate man who might be her only true love--Lily must choose between a love she never knew and a commitment she'd already made. [borrowed from GoodReads]

Fireworks Over Toccoa is Lily's story - and although the story really takes place throughout a span of a couple of days, her flashbacks take you back several decades to a dry, hot Georgia summer and a love that is unforgettable.

Although the story started a bit slow for me, and even had me a bit confused (since it starts with two children finding something unnamed near a lake, then to a woman named Colleen, and finally to Colleen's grandmother Lily), once Lily actually commences her story, I became totally immersed in the town of Toccoa, it's residents and the relationship between Lily and Jake. Mr. Stepakoff's writing is rich and vivid, yet simple, it really gives the story this lazy, summer feel (I'm not sure if I explained that properly), but it felt just right.

Lily and Jake's relationship is something to behold. I loved how fireworks came into play throughout the story and how it was used as a metaphor for their love of one another. I've read several reviews where they compare this to Nicholas Sparks' work - and as an avid reader of Nicholas Sparks, I can definitely see the similarities. But don't let that be the factor that determines whether you read this or not. Mr. Stepakoff has created a beautiful story with characters that you will feel as if you know and will regret when you reach the last page and know that your time with them is over.

This is a bitter-sweet tale that will sweep you up and deposit you at its end with tears in your eyes but a smile on your face. I really enjoyed it.

This book was provided for review by St. Martin's Press.

A Matter of Class by Mary Balogh

Reginald Mason is, by all accounts, a gentleman - he is well-educated, courteous, handsome and very wealthy. However, the ton doesn’t see it that way, much to his and his father’s dismay. For Reginald Senior was not born a gentleman. He worked hard for this station even if it is said that their money is tarnished by coal. When the opportunity for social advancement arises, namely, Lady Annabelle Ashton, daughter of the Earl of Havercroft, a neighbor and enemy of the Mason family, he finds the opportunity too hard to resist.

Lady Annabelle is in quite the predicament. She tried to elope with her father's footman and now finds herself disgraced by scandal, even thought of as damaged goods. Her father, the Earl, is none too happy with her and will gladly marry her off to anyone willing to have her.

Reginald Senior sees this as the moment he's been waiting for to move his family up the social ladder. But young Reggie does not see it as ideal, for he enjoys single life too much. When his father gives him an ultimatum: marry Annabelle or be cut-off from the family funds - he has no choice but to consent to the marriage. But no one said either one of them had to be happy about their new predicament.

This was such a sweet story. It was rather short, but nonetheless, it was delightful. I am a fan of Regency England, but even more than that, the way the story is written was brilliant. For starters it is very tame. There aren't any blush worthy moments - which gave it a timeless feel. The romance was light but as the relationship between Annabelle and Reggie grew, it steadily became more and more... sigh worthy.

I really must give kudos to Ms. Balogh for keeping me in the dark for most of the story as to the "twist" (everyone keeps mentioning). I didn't peak and I tried not to think too much of it and I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. It was very witty of her and by far what made this short story so pleasurable. I highly recommend to anyone looking for a feel-good love story.

Romance Reading Challenge 2010

Naida at The Bookworm is hosting the Romance Reading Challenge again next year and, of course, I am so down once again. This was easy peasy for me this year so we shall endeavor to read the 5 novels that Naida requires for her challenge, plus another 5 that I will also challenge myself to read... hardcore right? LoL

Here are some of the titles that I plan on reading:
- The Princess Bride - William Goldman (I wanted to be Buttercup when I grew up...)
- P.S. I Love You - Cecelia Ahern
- The Notebook - Nicholas Sparks (it's the only N.Sparks book I have not read)
- Vision in White - Nora Roberts
- Bed of Roses - Nora Roberts
- Atonement - Ian McEwan

These are the one's I've had the longest on my shelves - hopefully, I'll finally get these read and of course, I'll add several others.

For contest and sign-up info - click here.