7/31/15
100 Best Romances and Why Some Books Didn't Make the Cut
Can't Wait For: Tiffany Snow's Playing Dirty (October 2015)
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| Available 09/29/2015 |
DOWN AND DIRTY
Faced with a choice between bad-boy detective Dean Ryker and sexy power player Parker Anderson, Sage Reece fought the law--and the law won. But while Ryker's sizzling touch may rule her nights, Sage's days belong to Parker's cool, calculating intensity. . . .
Both Ryker and Parker are determined to protect Sage from a brutal enemy who'd use her to pay for their mistakes. Yet when the usually on-point Ryker is distracted by ghosts from his past, Parker seizes his opportunity to get Sage's attention--and keep it in ways beyond her wildest dreams.
Now, caught between a mobster out for revenge and two men who were once best friends, Sage must play to win--even if it means getting dirty. . .
* * * * * * * *
I read the first book in this series, POWER PLAY, in one night! Seriously, I couldn't put it down. I am totally working on my review of that book. Maybe that'll tide me over until PLAYING DIRTY is released--but I doubt it!
7/17/15
Can't Wait For: Elizabeth Hoyt's Sweetest Scoundrel (December 2015)
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| Available 11/24/2015 |
SHE'S TAKING CHARGE
Prim, proper, and thrifty, Eve Dinwoody is all business when it comes to protecting her brother's investment. But when she agrees to control the purse strings of London's premier pleasure garden, Harte's Folly, she finds herself butting heads with an infuriating scoundrel who can't be controlled.
HE'S RUNNING THE SHOW
Bawdy and bold, Asa Makepeace doesn't have time for a penny-pinching prude like Eve. As the garden's larger-than-life owner, he's already dealing with self-centered sopranos and temperamental tenors. He's not about to let an aristocratic woman boss him around . . . no matter how enticing she is.
BUT LOVE CONQUERS ALL
In spite of her lack of theatrical experience-and her fiery clashes with Asa-Eve is determined to turn Harte's Folly into a smashing success. But the harder she tries to manage the stubborn rake, the harder it is to ignore his seductive charm and raw magnetism. There's no denying the smoldering fire between them-and trying to put it out would be the greatest folly of all . . .
* * * * * * * *
Elizabeth Hoyt is one of my favorite authors because of the non-mainstream heroes and heroines that she writes about. SWEETEST SCOUNDREL is the ninth (!) book in her delightful Maiden Lane series and features one of my favorite romance novel tropes, the buttoned-up heroine and the rakish hero. Merry Christmas to me!
7/2/15
Why Amazon Loves Me: July 2015 Edition
I love Amazon and they love me. For the right price, the following July 2015 new releases (and some not so new releases) were sitting in my mail box (OK, they were sitting on my porch.) this afternoon:
* Lois Lane: Fallout by Gwenda Bond (first in a planned series)
* Outlaw Hearts (Outlaw Hearts #1) by Rosanne Bittner
* Ride Steady (Chaos #3) by Kristen Ashley
* Truffled to Death (Chocolate Covered Mystery #2) by Kathy Aarons
* Bodice of Evidence (A Perfect Proposals Mystery #2) by Nancy J. Parra
* Last Chance Hero (Last Chance #9) by Hope Ramsay
* A Promise of Forever (Tallgrass #4) by Marilyn Pappano
* Second Chance Summer (Ceadar Ridge #1) by Jill Shalvis
* Summer At the Shore (Seashell Bay #2) by VK Sykes
* Power Play (Risky Business #1) by Tiffany Snow
* Miss Match by Laurelin McGee
* Put Up Your Duke (Dukes Behaving Badly #2) by Megan Frampton
* Hard To Let Go (Hard Ink #5) by Laura Kaye
So, what books did you order online or pick up at your local bookstore?
XOXO,
Teresa
6/8/15
Can't Wait For: Lisa Kleypas' COLD-HEARTED RAKE (November 2015)
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| Available 10/27/2015 |
A twist of fate . . .
Devon Ravenel, London's most wickedly charming rake, has just inherited an earldom. But his powerful new rank in society comes with unwanted responsibilities . . . and more than a few surprises. His estate is saddled with debt, and the late earl's three innocent sisters are still occupying the house . . . along with Kathleen, Lady Trenear, a beautiful young widow whose sharp wit and determination are a match for Devon's own.
A clash of wills . . .
Kathleen knows better than to trust a ruthless scoundrel like Devon. But the fiery attraction between them is impossible to deny—and from the first moment Devon holds her in his arms, he vows to do whatever it takes to possess her. As Kathleen finds herself yielding to his skillfully erotic seduction, only one question remains:
Can she keep from surrendering her heart to the most dangerous man she's ever known?
* * * * *
Lisa Kleypas is returning to her historical romance roots, and I can't wait!
6/7/15
Book Review: RESCUING THE BAD BOY (Second Chance #2) by Jessica Lemmon
For Donovan Pate, the lake town of Evergreen Cove is a minefield of tough memories-including the day he had to let go of Sofie Martin. Years later he still can't forget the taste of her lips and the feel of her killer curves. He knows he's too damaged, that he should stay away for her own good. But what the head says and the heart wants are two very different things . . .
Seven years ago, Donovan broke Sofie's heart. Now her career depends on playing nice in order to pull off the charity fund-raiser of the decade. She vows to keep things professional . . . yet working by his side every day doesn't make it easy to fight temptation, and it isn't long before she finds herself falling for this bad boy all over again. But loving Donovan means helping him face his past-so they can fight for a future together.
* * * * *
Oh, man...Donovan Pate broke my heart and then made it all better by the end of the book. I'm not kidding. I can't remember the last time a hero's story devastated me the way Donovan Pate's did! I was all prepared to not like Mr. Pate based on the tiny teaser I read in BRINGING HOME THE BAD BOY. Evil boy dumps virginal girl after relieving her of her virginity--how dare he! But Jessica Lemmon's spectacular writing proved that Donovan Pate is more than worthy of a second chance. I honestly believe he's my favorite hero of 2015, so far (and the other heroes I read this year will have a lot of catching up to do if they want to outdo Donovan Pate).
Donovan was raised in an abusive home by his abuser father and his grandmother, who looked the other way. Donovan grew up not believing he was loved or worthy of love or kindness. He doesn't know how to handle the beautiful Sofie Martin who loves him with her whole heart, who believes that he's a man that's worthy of her kindness and love. So of course he handles it badly when he gets his first real taste of love and kindness. It leads him to reject Sofie cruelly, and he runs to the Hamptons. He stays away for seven years, the only reason he returns to Evergreen Cove is to get rid of the mansion that he inherited from his late grandmother.
Donovan and Sofie cross paths again when he tries to get her to move the fundraiser for abused children she's hosting at the mansion. This doesn't sit well with Sofie, who's none to happy to see Donovan again seven years after he cruelly dumped her and ran. She's moved on and determined to prove it not only to Donovan, but herself as well.
Jessica Lemmon tells their love story, and Donovan's story, with such a beautiful grace. I honestly had to set the book down a few times because I was overwhelmed with emotion. I don't think I've been happier for two people to get their happy ending than I was for Donovan and Sofie. Ms. Lemmon has another winner on her hands!
XOXO,
Teresa
Rating: 4 out of 4 Stars. This book belongs on your keeper shelf!
Book Facts:
RESCUING THE BAD BOY (Second Chance #2) by Jessica Lemmon
Forever/Grand Central Publishing, June 2015
ISBN: 978-1-4555-5806-3
Buy It: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books A Million
Up next in the Second Chance Series...
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| Available 09/25/2015 |
A BAD BOY FOR CHRISTMAS
Second Chance #3
'Tis the Season to Be Naughty
Connor McClain knows what he wants. And after four harrowing years in Afghanistan, that's a quiet life in the lakeside town of Evergreen Cove. But coming home has land mines of its own-the most dangerous of them being long-legged bombshell Faith Garrett. Now getting her into his arms this holiday is going to require more than mistletoe . . .
With a cheating ex behind her, all Faith wants is a relaxing holiday free from man drama. And even though every moment with gorgeous Connor is a sweet temptation, Faith is determined not to give in. But Jack Frost has other plans, and soon Faith and Connor are snowbound in a winter wonderland with only the sparks flying between them to keep them warm. As one hot kiss leads to another, they'll have to decide if they're ready to give each other the best gift of all-love.
Connor McClain knows what he wants. And after four harrowing years in Afghanistan, that's a quiet life in the lakeside town of Evergreen Cove. But coming home has land mines of its own-the most dangerous of them being long-legged bombshell Faith Garrett. Now getting her into his arms this holiday is going to require more than mistletoe . . .
With a cheating ex behind her, all Faith wants is a relaxing holiday free from man drama. And even though every moment with gorgeous Connor is a sweet temptation, Faith is determined not to give in. But Jack Frost has other plans, and soon Faith and Connor are snowbound in a winter wonderland with only the sparks flying between them to keep them warm. As one hot kiss leads to another, they'll have to decide if they're ready to give each other the best gift of all-love.
Book Review: BRINGING HOME THE BAD BOY (Second Chances #1) by Jessica Lemmon
The Bad Boy Is Back
Evan Downey needs a new beginning. Since the death of his wife five years ago, the brilliant tattoo artist has shut himself away in a prison of grief that not even his work can break him out of-and what's worse, Evan knows his son Lyon is bearing the brunt of his seclusion. Moving back to the lake town of Evergreen Cove where he spent his childhood summers is his last chance for a fresh start.
Charlotte Harris knows she owes it to her best friend's memory to help Evan and his son find their way again, but she can't stop her traitorous heart from skipping a beat every time she looks into Evan's mesmerizing eyes. Charlotte is determined to stay strictly in the Friend Zone-until a mind-blowing night knocks that plan by the wayside. Now, if they're brave enough to let it, Charlotte and Evan might just find a love capable of healing their broken hearts . . .
* * * * *
One of my favorite romance novel tropes is the heroine who falls for her late best friend's husband (I blame Linda Howard's excellent 1985 novel, SARAH'S CHILD, for this...). There's so much drama already built in for the author to play with. Was the marriage happy? Was it on the rocks? Just how long has the heroine been pining for the husband? Are there people who are naturally against this pairing? There are just so many ways to take the novel if you're an author.
Jessica Lemmon has spun a wonderful tale in BRINGING HOME THE BAD BOY. Evan Downey is a swoon-worthy hero, not only because he's hot, but because he's a wonderful father. It's clear from the moment the story begins that Evan is a man who loves deeply. Not just his son, Lyon, but Lyon's mother Rae. This is a guy who has had trouble sleeping in the bed he shared with Rae since her unexpected, tragic passing. Ms. Lemmon does a wonderful job illustrating how much Evan loved/loves Rae, but also paints a marriage that had real flaws. Neither Rae nor Evan were perfect human beings, and that's okay.
Evan decides it's time to move back to Evergreen Cove to give Lyon and himself a fresh start and shake the constant reminders of Rae. His and Rae's friend Charlotte "Charlie" Harris is happy to have them move back to Evergreen Cove, even if she can't seem to get her heart under control whenever Evan's around. Charlie is a wonderful heroine who, while "crushing" on Evan since they were teenagers, never really let that stop her from having a life. I appreciate that Charlie wasn't sitting on a shelf somewhere pining for Evan. Her struggle with accepting that it's okay for her and Evan to be in a relationship feels real. It's not overdone histrionics, it paints her in a sympathetic light. It is a struggle for her to be happy with what she sees as Rae's family. She doesn't believe that she's worthy of such love, of such a family. Watching her finally accept that she is worthy of it is beautiful. Charlie and Evan jump off the page and set it on fire with their scorching chemistry.
BRINGING HOME THE BAD BOY was my first time reading anything by Jessica Lemmon, and it certainly will not be the last thing I read by this talented author.
XOXO,
Teresa
Rating: 4 out of 4 Stars! Run to your local bookstore to pick up this gem, and be prepared to read it with oven mits on, 'cause the chemistry is smoooooking hot!
Book Facts:
BRINGING HOME THE BAD BOY (Second Chance #1) by Jessica Lemmon
Forever/Grand Central Publishing, January 2015
ISBN: 978-1-4555-3148-6
Buy it: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books A Million
Can't Wait For: Sarah MacLean's THE ROGUE NOT TAKEN (January 2016)
Lady Sophie's Society Splash!
When Sophie, the least interesting of the Talbot sisters, lands her philandering brother-in-law backside-first in a goldfish pond in front of all society, she becomes the target of very public aristocratic scorn. Her only choice is to flee London, vowing to start a new life far from the aristocacy. Unfortunately, the carriage in which she stows away isn't saving her from ruin . . . it's filled with it.
Rogue's Reign of Ravishment!
Kingscote, "King," the Marquess of Eversley, has never met a woman he couldn't charm, resulting in a reputation far worse than the truth, a general sense that he's more pretty face than proper gentleman, and an irate summons home to the Scottish border. When King discovers stowaway Sophie, however, the journey becomes anything but boring.
War? Or More?
He thinks she's trying to trick him into marriage. She wouldn't have him if he were the last man on earth. But carriages bring close quarters, dark secrets, and unbearable temptation, making opposites altogether too attractive . . .
* * * * *
Welcome to a new feature I'm calling "Can't Wait For." CWF is a way for me to highlight new books from favorite authors and new authors that I can't wait to read.
I'm kicking off this feature with Sarah MacLean's January 2016 book, THE ROGUE NOT TAKEN. Published by Avon Books, the book will hit shelves on December 29, 2015. The book is the first installment of Ms. MacLean's new Scandal & Scoundrel series. And while 2015 can take it's sweet time, I am looking forward to ringing in the new year with this little gem...
XOXO,
Teresa
6/2/15
Why Amazon Loves Me--June 2015 edition
On the 26th day of May and the 2nd day of June, Amazon sent me the following books:
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* The Beautiful One (Scandalous Sisters #1) by Emily Greenwood
* The Diva Steals a Chocolate Kiss (Domestic Diva Mystery #9) by Krista Davis
* Death of a Chocolate Cheater (Food Festival Mystery #2) by Penny Pike
* All the Right Places (Riley O'Brien & Co. #1) by Jenna Sutton
* Midnight Captive (Killer Instincts #6) by Elle Kennedy
* One Night With a Billionaire (Billionaire Boys Club #6) by Jessica Clare
* Suddenly One Summer by Julie James
* Vicious Cycle (Vicious Cycle #1) by Katie Ashley
* Ripped from the Pages (Bibliophile Mystery #9) by Kate Carlisle
* Death by Coffee (Bookstore Cafe Mystery #1) by Alex Erickson
* No Better Man (Heart of the Rockies #1) by Sara Richardson
* Passionately Yours (The Hellions of High Street #3) by Cara Elliot
* Dearest Rogue (Maiden Lane #8) by Elizabeth Hoyt
* Wedding Bells in Christmas (Christmas, Colorado #4) by Debbie Mason
* All of Me (Love Between the Bases #1) by Jennifer Bernard
* Falling Hard (Bad Boys Undercover #2) by Helenkay Dimon
So, what books did you add to your to be read pile?
XOXO,
Teresa
2/2/15
Book Review: THE TROUBLE WITH CHRISTMAS (Christmas, Colorado #1) by Debbie Mason
For Sheriff Gage McBride, no hotshot executive from New York City is going to destroy the dreams of the people he loves. But one look at this beautiful woman and it's his heart may be broken. In just a few days, Madison causes more trouble than he's had to deal with all year. He can't decide if she's naughty or nice, but one thing is for certain--Christmas will never be the same again...
* * * * *
Debbie Mason is a new-to-me author, and I'm such a big fan after this book! The characters, town and story sparkled! It was like a Hallmark Channel movie in book form.
Ms. Mason mentions in her author letter that she had a hard time understanding who Madison (the heroine) was. Well, I'm so glad she figured out who Madison was because she just jumps off the page and into your heart. While she may be labeled "The Grinch," Madison certainly does not live up to her unfairly earned nickname. Forced to visit Christmas, Madison's reasons to be distrustful of small town life and small town people are understandable and relatable. Madison goes through a series of trials and comes out with an appreciation for Christmas (the town and the holiday), and deep, life-long friendships.
Gage McBride is a single father struggling to raise his two young daughters. Madison starts off as a pain in his ass, but quickly warms and worms her way into his heart. Their chemistry is immediate and hot, even if they both try their hardest to deny it.
It honestly was a joy to spend time in Christmas, Colorado. And Ms. Mason has set up the rest of the series very nicely!
XOXO,
Teresa
Rating: 4 out of 4 Stars--Pick this gem up and enjoy it in one day!
Book Facts:
THE TROUBLE WITH CHRISTMAS (Christmas, Colorado #1) by Debbie Mason
Forever/Grand Central Publishing, September 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4555-2768-7
Buy it at Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books A Million
Connect with Debbie Mason on: Facebook | Twitter
Also available in the Christmas, Colorado Series: CHRISTMAS IN JULY (#2) and IT HAPPENED AT CHRISTMAS (#3) and
WEDDING BELLS IN CHRISTMAS (#4)--May 2015
Wedding bells are ringing in the charming town of Christmas, but not for Vivian Westfield. She's just had her heart trampled under the cowboy boots of Chance McBride and lost her dream job at a big-city newspaper. But when she returns for a wedding, she stumbles on a story that could resurrect her career. First, though, she'll have to deal with the handsome man standing in her way . . . and a still-burning flame that's too hot to ignore.
Chance recognizes trouble when he sees it. He just didn't expect to find it in the first-class cabin on the flight home for his father's wedding. Yet there she is, as gorgeous as ever. Vivi dared Chance to want things he knew he could never have. It's why he left her. But Christmas's meddling matchmakers have them firmly in their sights. So if they want to survive the next week, they'll have to play the part of an adoring couple-an irresistible charade that may give them a second chance at the real thing . . .
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