Book Review and Giveaways: Sinfully Yours (The Hellions of High Street) by Cara Elliott

Another sister gets a romantic adventure in book two of this fun series.
Sinfully Yours (The Hellions of High Street)
by Cara Elliott

• File Size: 667 KB
• Print Length: 316 pages
• Publisher: Forever (February 4, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00D19E05I
• Genre: Historical Romance
• My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: February 4, 2014
THE HELLIONS OF HIGH STREET SERIES CONTINUES WITH SINFULLY YOURS...
Proper young ladies of the ton-especially ones who have very small dowries-are not encouraged to have an interest in intellectual pursuits. Indeed, the only things they are encouraged to pursue are eligible bachelors. So, the headstrong Sloane sisters must keep their passions a secret. Ah, but secret passions are wont to lead a lady into trouble . . .
SINFULLY YOURS
After an eventful Season, Anna Sloane longs for some peace and quiet to pursue her writing. Though her plots might be full of harrowing adventure and heated passion, she'd much prefer to leave such exploits on the page rather than experience them in real life. Or so she thinks until she encounters the darkly dissolute-and gorgeously charming-Marquess of Davenport.
Davenport has a reputation as a notorious rake whose only forte is wanton seduction. However the real reason he's a guest at the same remote Scottish castle has nothing to do with Anna . . . until a series of mysterious threats leave him no choice but to turn to her for help in stopping a dangerous conspiracy. As desire erupts between them, Davenport soon learns he's not the only one using a carefully crafted image to hide his true talents. And he's more than ready to show Anna that sometimes reality can be even better than her wildest imaginings . . .

Review:
Anna has always presented a kind, lovely and proper presence in society. Although she is the middle daughter, she is the one who was expected to marry well to save the family. Now that her older sister has succeeded in marrying a wealthy Earl, the pressure has been lifted from Anna. Only her sisters know that Anna publishes adventure novels under a male pseudonym. If the ton were to discover her secret she would be ruined. Like any writer, sometimes she struggles with new adventures for her characters but she never really expects to experience the excitement of mystery and danger in her own life. The extent of her brush with danger is sharing sharp tongued wit with the Marquess of Davenport, aka the Devil. He ruffles her calm composure as he brings out her daring, and perhaps wicked, thoughts.

Davenport perpetuates his reputation as a rake, staying at the fringe of society while hiding his own secrets. He agrees to investigate a possible murder plot in Scotland not only for the pay, but also hoping it will allow him distraction from his attraction to the intriguing and puzzling Anna Sloane. He is surprised when Anna turns out to be a house guest attending the country party.

Disturbing events cause Anna to question Davenport’s actions. While she checks up on him, he is investigating her odd behavior. When they uncover each others secrets they decide the best thing they can do is work together. In addition to adding exploits for her novels Anna realizes that Davenport can teach her a thing or two to help the love scenes.

Anna is a lovely character with hidden abilities taught by her father who thought his daughters should be prepared to protect themselves. I like Davenport’s character and his secret talents too. The dialogue is amusing and, as in the first book, the author has fun playing with alliteration. The plot is lively and fast paced. There is mystery, danger, conflict and a reluctantly building romance which is sensual without being vulgar.

This is a fun series and I look forward to book three which tells Caro's adventures in love. I believe her obstinate beau has been introduced in this novel and I look forward to their fireworks. I highly recommend this series and this author to those who enjoy engaging historical romance.

I received this book through NetGalley for an honest review as part of Hachette/Forever Book tour. It counts towards NetGalley Challenge.

Buy Links:

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About the author:

Cara Elliott started writing Western novels at the age of five. Later she changed her genre to Regency romance after reading Pride and Prejudice. She graduated from Yale University, and she now lives and works in New York City.

Social Media Links:

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Excerpt:

     A high note of the aria died on his lips as a frown strangled all further sound.
     He stared for a long moment at the front of Manton’s shop, trying to quell the erratic quickening of his pulse as he suddenly recognized the figure standing there. Shaking off the physical response to the person in question, Devlin made himself concentrate on the practical question her presence raised. What was she doing there? Ladies did not usually linger in front of a gunsmith’s display window.
     Lightening his footsteps, Devlin approached in silence. “Planning on murdering someone, Miss Sloane?”
     Anna started, nearly dropping the small notebook in her hands, and then whirled around.
“Some men,” she snapped, “deserve to be shot.”
     “More than a few,” he agreed, angling his head to try to catch a glimpse of what she had been writing.
     The covers quickly snapped shut.
     “If you like,” he went on, “I could draw up a list of the most offensive characters.”
     Chuffing a rude sound, Anna darted one more look at the pistols on display before shoving her pencil and notebook into her reticule. “Come along, Nettie,” she called to the young maid hovering near the corner of the storefront. “Let us be on our way.”
     Devlin shifted his stance just enough to block her path. “It’s unusual for a lady to have an interest in firearms. I confess, I am curious as to why.”
     “There is an old adage about curiosity killing the cat,” she shot back.
     He smiled, which appeared to annoy her even more.
     “Then it is lucky that I am an imp of Satan.”
     “Why is it that I have a feeling Luck has nothing to do with your choice of habits?”
     Because your wit and your tongue are lethally sharp.
     Keeping such thoughts to himself, he merely said, “An interesting question. But you haven’t yet answered mine, and I asked first.”
     A glare, which he countered by stretching his smile into a grin.
Her nostrils flared as she drew in a sharp breath. “Not that it is any of your business, but I—I am looking to find a special gift for Wrexham.”
     A reasonable reply. So why did he have the feeling that she was lying? “Manton’s pistols are frightfully expensive,” responded Devlin, carefully watching her face. “Dare I assume that the poor-as-churchmice Sloane family is now no longer under the hatches, thanks to the generosity of your older sister’s new husband?”
     A light breeze ruffled the ribbons of her bonnet, and for the space of a heartbeat a flutter of a shadow seemed to hang on her gold-tipped lashes.
     “Indeed, knowing the earl’s noble nature, I would imagine that you and Miss Caro are now in possession of a very generous dowry.”
     Her cheeks darkened to an angry shade of red. “You are not only impertinent, you are offensive, Lord Davenport. Kindly step aside.”
     “But of course.” He slowly shifted, deliberately dragging his boots over the paving stones to make a loud rasping sound. It was ungentlemanly to goad her into a temper, but the fire in her eyes was mesmerizing to watch. Heat blazed in a burnt-gold swirl of sparks, turning their deep green hue into a pool of molten jade.
    “Allow me to make amends for my churlish manners by offering a recommendation on which of Manton’s models the earl might like.”
     “On second thought, I have decided to look elsewhere for a gift,” replied Anna tightly.
     “A simple but elegant watch fob, perhaps? A bejeweled cravat stickpin would not be at all in keeping with the earl’s sense of style.”
     “I can’t help but wonder something, sir,” she said in reply.
     “Which is?”
     “Why you take such fiendish delight in tormenting me.”
     “Perhaps because you react with such delightfully explosive ire.” Devlin waggled a brow. “Most young ladies are afraid to stand up for themselves. But not you.”
     She brushed past him without comment.
     Devlin watched her stalk away. Miss Anna Sloane was known for her effortless grace, and yet there was no other word than “stalk” for her stiff-legged gait. Which in itself spoke volumes about her state of inner agitation.
     Again, he wondered why.
     Turning, he moved to where she had been standing and made a careful study of the display window.
     He frowned. It was conceivably the sort of firearm a lady might tuck in her reticule . . .
     Assuming she had reason to fear for her safety.
     Anna Sloane in danger? For an instant, his hands fisted, but he quickly dismissed the idea as absurd.
     Absurd.
     “I have been reading too many adventure novels.”

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Book Review: A Hope Remembered (Of Love and War series Book 3) by Stacy Henrie

This is a lovely, sweet story of renewed hope found through gentle love.

A Hope Remembered (Of Love and War series Book 3)

by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 725 KB
• Print Length: 384 pages
• Publisher: Forever (March 31, 2015)
• ASIN: B00LLIIZBG
• Genre: Historical Romance, WW1
• My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: March 31, 2015
AS THE WAR ENDS, LOVE BEGINS
Nora Lewis just wants an escape after losing her fiance in the Great War. When she inherits property in England, she boldly packs up and leaves America for a fresh start. But, if not for her dashing new neighbor, Colin Ashby, she'd be lost. Even as their friendship deepens, Nora knows a British aristocrat would never be free to love an American orphan, no matter how much the war has changed the world ...
 After his brother's death in the war and his own experiences as a pilot at the front, Colin returns home broken, only to discover his family's estate is also in ruin. The pressure is now on him to save his home and the Ashbys' place in society with a well-bred match to a wealthy heiress. Too bad he finds more of a kindred spirit in Nora, the beautiful American next door. She, too, has faced the rigors of war and survived. Now the ex-soldier will have one more battle to fight--this time for love.

Review:
Nora Lewis lost her parents and now has lost her fiancé in WW1. She is resigned to her future alone on her Idaho farm until she receives news that she has inherited a sheep farm in England.
She decides that God has provided this so she sells the farm and moves to England to find a new start. Nora is soon struck by the handsome looks and kind charm of her neighbor, Colin, who helps her locate and settle safely into her new property.

Colin is more than gracious considering he is the aristocratic heir of the largest estate in the community. Colin is a second son and had not expected to become the heir. He and his brother were pilots in the War but Christian died and Colin survived. Before his death, Christian had Colin promise to take care of the family estate if anything happened to him. Now their father has explained that the family has money problems and Colin must help by marry a wealthy heiress and obtaining Nora’s land for a hotel investment. Colin is torn between the new friendship and feelings he has for Nora and the promise and duty he has to his family.

Nora never expected to find new dreams for love and family but she senses she could fall for Colin. She has forged ahead in the community to take her place among the sheep herders and she is pleased that she has been readily accepted. Except that several people seem to confuse her with someone named Eleanor, whom she never knew. Also, someone wants her gone and is causing destruction to her home and garden to try to scare her away.

There is an obvious conflict of hearts and trust for both the lead characters. The two light mysteries, the mistaken identity and the threats, add interest to the story. The setting is rich and beautifully portrayed with details of the green countryside, sheep herding and even an ancient castle. The romance is sweet and develops in spite of the reluctance and fear of the participants. I especially enjoyed Nora’s strong determination and faith that was picked up by Colin when he most needed it.

I enjoyed the book although I didn’t feel completely pulled in as I did by Hope Rising, Book 2 in the series. Still it is a lovely read and I do recommend this series for those who like clean, sweet romance in a strong historical setting.

I received this book from Hachette/Forever through NetGalley for blog tour and an honest review. It qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

Feature and Giveaway: A Hope Remembered by Stacy Henrie

Book 3 in Of Love and War Trilogy

A HOPE REMEMBERED:
The final book in Stacy Henrie's sweeping Of Love and War trilogy brings to life the drama of battle torn Europe with emotion, faith, and of course, romance.
As the war ends, love begins . . .
Nora Lewis just wants an escape after losing her fiancé in the Great War. When she inherits property in England, she boldly packs up and leaves America for a fresh start. But if not for her dashing new neighbor, Colin Ashby, she'd be lost. Even as their friendship deepens, Nora knows a British aristocrat would never be free to love an American orphan, no matter how much the war has changed the world . . . After his brother's death in the war and his own experiences as a pilot at the front, Colin returns home broken, only to discover his family's estate is also in ruin. The pressure is now on him to save his home and the Ashbys' place in society with a well-bred match to a wealthy heiress. Too bad he finds more of a kindred spirit in Nora, the beautiful American next door. She, too, has faced the rigors of war and survived. Now the ex-soldier will have one more battle to fight-this time for love.

Buy Links:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/1GQCqtm 

BAM - http://bit.ly/1Cn3vVc 

B&N - http://bit.ly/1xvDW4z 

IndieBound - http://bit.ly/1Hy9JBC 

GooglePlay - http://bit.ly/1CVLvnc 

iTunes - http://apple.co/1y1C8Lf 

Kobo - http://bit.ly/1BhSsc6 

About Stacy Henrie:

Stacy Henrie has always had an avid appetite for history, fiction and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations and worked in communications before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a stay-at-home mom to three, Stacy loves the chance to live out history through her fictional characters, while enjoying the modern conveniences of life in the 21st century. In addition to author, she is a reader, a road trip enthusiast and a novice interior decorator. Her first novel, Lady Outlaw, released from Harlequin Love Inspired Historical in 2012.

Stacy's SM:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5778153.Stacy_Henrie 

http://facebook.com/Stacy-Henrie-author

https://www.pinterest.com/stacyhenrie/

www.stacyhenrie.com

@StacyHenrie

EXCERPT:

    With a glare at both of them, Jack smashed his cap on his head and stalked from the room. He proceeded to slam the door behind him, but it hit the doorframe and bounced open instead.
    Nora pushed out a sigh. “You didn’t have to be rude. Jack’s been very helpful to me this past week.” Maybe a bit too much. But she didn’t voice that thought. Colin needed no further ammunition against Jack.
    “I’m sure he has,” Colin muttered, his expression as dark as his eyes.
    Nora pinned him with a piercing look.
    “You’re right.” He finished buttoning his cuffs and slipped on his vest. “That was ungentlemanly of me.”
    She ignored his reference to her joke at their first meeting as she put away the corn starch and closed the cupboard. It was easier to keep her heart firmly locked if she held onto her disapproval of Colin’s behavior. Plus it would also stop her from wondering what he’d been about to say before Jack’s arrival.
    “How may I redeem myself?” he asked as he pulled on his jacket. The amusement tugging at his mouth contradicted his contrite tone.
    Nora folded her arms, contemplating a suitable penance. “I think your punishment needs to be two-fold.”
    “Very well.” He nodded. “What is your sentence?”
    “First, you must join me for choir rehearsal at the church tomorrow morning.”
    The mirth drained from his face. “Nora.” His voice held a note of warning. “That is entirely—”
    “Second, you and Perseus can give me a tour around the lake. I’ve already been here a week and haven’t even seen all of it.”
    Colin scowled. “A walk around the lake would be acceptable. But the choir rehearsal . . .”
    “Please, Colin.” She hazarded a step toward him, hoping he’d relent. “I sang with them last Sunday and they need more male voices.”
    She had another reason for wanting him there. Everyone had been kind at rehearsal and at church the following day, but Nora still felt uncomfortable with the continued references to her likeness to Eleanor. Apparently their similarities also included their singing voices. With Colin at the rehearsals, she wouldn’t feel as awkward. She was beginning to think he was the only person in Larksbeck who hadn’t known Eleanor.
    Colin’s brow knit in obvious annoyance, while Nora held her breath. Would he accept her proposal? Finally resignation settled over his countenance. “I’ll go, but only once.” He held up a single finger. “Once,” he repeated. “I make no promises after that.”
    Grateful, she breached the remaining space between them and put her hand on his sleeve. “I agree to those terms.” She couldn’t hide her smile as she added, “Be careful, though, we might make a regular choir member out of you yet.”
    Instead of the light laugh she expected, Colin solemnly watched her. Though he didn’t touch her, she felt as powerless to release his sleeve as if he’d detained her hand. She couldn’t step away—his nearness drew her in like the promising warmth of a fire after being out in a storm.
    “You know,” he murmured, his voice low, “you are rather charming when you jest like that.”
    Nora’s pulse stuttered to a stop, then sped up again like a train gaining speed. She tried to remember why she’d been angry with him, tried to remember why she couldn’t allow anything more than friendship to blossom between them. But she couldn’t concentrate on any one thought, except for the growing desire to touch the hint of dark bristles covering his jaw.
    Colin studied her lips as Jack had done last week, but this moment couldn’t be more different. A part of her, one growing more insistent by the second, actually wanted Colin to kiss her. How long had it been since she’d last felt the press of masculine lips against hers?
    Not since before Tom left.
    The memory crashed over her with all the effect of an ocean wave. She felt suddenly ill and cold. Releasing Colin’s sleeve, she stepped back, crossing her arms over her chest for warmth.
    Forgive me, Tom.
    She’d done nothing wrong, but even entertaining the idea of Colin kissing her felt like a betrayal. Her heart could never belong to anyone else. And yet, in this moment, the past felt more like a burden than a boon.
    “I’ll . . . uh . . . just get my sweater, then we can go on that walk.” Nora went to pull the garment off its usual peg. Her hands shook slightly as she slipped the sweater on over her blouse. “Ready?”
    A flicker of emotion gleamed in Colin’s dark eyes. Was it disappointment? Frustration? Would he forgive her abruptness or understand the source of her pain? As quickly as it had come, though, the sentiment faded and Colin shot her a carefree grin. “After you, fair lady.”

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Book Review: A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie

This is a charming historical romance novella.

A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War)
by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 331 KB
• Print Length: 133 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (December 2, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00M7D0E2M

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 2, 2014
In this special holiday novella, Stacy Henrie returns to the World War I setting of her Of Love and War series for a heartwarming read that's perfect for the Christmas season.
TIS THE SEASON FOR SECOND CHANCES
Having experienced the heartache of unrequited love, Maria Schmitt desperately seeks a new life. Landing a position as a clerk in a Sioux City bank is just what she needs to get started on her journey toward healing. But a dashing stranger soon puts her job-and her heart-in jeopardy.
Saving lives was all Dale Emerson ever wanted to do . . . until a fateful day in France shattered his career as a surgeon. He lost everything that mattered, and the last thing he wants to do is resign himself to a life without medicine working at his uncle's bank. Then he meets Maria, a compassionate woman who can see past his scars to the man he once was-and the man he could be again. With Christmas right around the corner, these two wounded hearts may find that hope and a little holiday cheer are just the ticket to letting go of regrets-and embracing a future full of love and possibility.

Review:
Maria left home heartbroken over an unrequited love. She was looking for a new start and was fortunate to get a position as a bank clerk in Sioux City working under a kind manager. She has worked hard and earned the respect of the people and her work peers. She is intent on not giving her heart again until she is certain her feelings are returned.

Dale Emerson trained as a surgeon and went off to France to help at the war hospitals. He was glad to do his work helping others until bomb schrapnel took out one eye. He is frustrated when he returns home to Sioux City to take over the bank management from his sick Uncle. Dale doesn’t think he has much to offer now that he can no longer serve in the prestigious position of a surgeon.

These two meet at the bank with a misunderstanding to set things on a wrong foot. Slowly a friendship grows but both are tentative. Further misunderstandings and delay in speaking cause conflict that threatens their relationship. Can they reach beyond their past dissapointments, hurts and fears to find a new start together?

This is a sweet, warm story with two very likable and vulnerable characters. The relationship grows naturally, with misunderstandings, fits and starts. I enjoyed the WWI social and war history that the author portrays as the setting to the romance. I also liked the gentle reminders of faith and forgiving one's own mistakes.  This is a quick, easy read and I do recommend this author for lovely, clean, historical romance.

I received this from Forever through NetGalley for an honest review.

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Hope Rising (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie

This is a beautiful, warm romance that provides hope in a war setting and a faith-based message for any setting.
Hope Rising (Of Love and War)
by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 605 KB
• Print Length: 353 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 145559881X
• Publisher: Forever (December 16, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00JJ320YS
• Genre: Historical Romance, Christian, Inspirational

My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 16, 2014
FROM A GREAT WAR, SPRINGS A GREAT LOVE
In France at the height of World War I, American nurse Evelyn Gray is no stranger to suffering. She's helped save the life of many a soldier, but when she learns her betrothed has been killed, her own heart may be broken beyond repair. Summoning all her strength, Evelyn is determined to carry on-not just for herself and her country, but for her unborn child.

Corporal Joel Campbell dreams of the day the war is over and he can return home and start a family. When a brutal battle injury puts that hope in jeopardy, Joel is lost to despair . . . until he meets Evelyn. Beautiful, compassionate, and in need of help, she makes an unconventional proposal that could save their lives-or ruin them irrevocably. Now, amidst the terror and turmoil of the Western Front, these two lost souls will have to put their faith in love to find the miracle they've been looking for.

Review:
Evelyn broke nursing rules by getting involved with Ralph, a soldier on leave. Ralph returned to the front lines before Evelyn discovered she was pregnant. Evelyn continues her dedicated work in the French hospital while dealing with sickness, fatigue and waiting for the time when Ralph will fullfill his promise to do the right thing and marry her.

Corporal Joel Campbell and his best friend, Ralph, are injured on the frontline. Ralph doesn’t survive but his last words are calling Evelyn’s name. Joel opens his eyes in the hospital to meet Evelyn.

Evelyn is in more turmoil having lost the man she loved and hoped to marry. She is afraid her condition will be discovered and she will be sent home. She has no idea how to explain her situation to her grandparents.

Joel guesses her circumstances after a few encounters. Evelyn learns that Joel’s injuries may leave him alone instead of having a full family and farm like he was raised with had dreamed of. As Joel and Evelyn begin to develop a friendship she thinks that perhaps they can help each other. Unfortunately Joel initially takes umbrage at her proposal. Then he decides they should take time to get to get to know each other better and then make a decision.

Evelyn and Joel help a local young boy, Louis, who does chores for an extra meal. Evelyn is teaching Louis and his friends to read while Joel shares his love of bird watching with Louis. There are other enjoyable characters like the surgeon Evelyn works with and her roommate.

This story shows a view of World War I that is realistic and provides a slice of hope in a setting of tragedy and loss. The characters are warm and the romance is sweat and engaging. The writing flows well and even the grimness of war is handled with a gentle tone. I loved the faith foundations that supported the characters and helped them to see that God's plans are not our plans but can provide something wonderful even if unexpected.

I totally enjoyed the read and look forward to reading the novella, A Christmas of Hope, which I will review next week. It is likely I will pick up the first book in this series, Hope at Dawn, too. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy a clean, historical romance with a sound faith message.

I received this from Forever, through NetGalley, for an honest review and part of blog tour.

About A CHRISTMAS HOPE:

Tis the season for second chances…

Having experienced the heartache of unrequited love, Maria Schmitt desperately seeks a new life. Landing a position as a clerk in a Sioux City bank is just what she needs to get started on her journey toward healing. But a dashing stranger soon puts her job-and her heart-in jeopardy. Saving lives was all Dale Emerson ever wanted to do . . . until a fateful day in France shattered his career as a surgeon. He lost everything that mattered, and the last thing he wants to do is resign himself to a life without medicine working at his uncle's bank. Then he meets Maria, a compassionate woman who can see past his scars to the man he once was-and the man he could be again. With Christmas right around the corner, these two wounded hearts may find that hope and a little holiday cheer are just the ticket to letting go of regrets-and embracing a future full of love and possibility.

About Stacy Henrie
Stacy Henrie has always had an avid appetite for history, fiction and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations from Brigham Young University and worked in communications before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a stay-at-home mom to three, Stacy loves the chance to live out history through her fictional characters, while enjoying the modern conveniences of life in the 21st century. In addition to author, she is a reader, a road trip enthusiast and a novice interior decorator.

Stacy’s SM:

@StacyHenrie

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stacy-Henrie-Author

http://www.stacyhenrie.com/ 

Buy links for HOPE RISING:

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1pnwQLn 

Books-A-Million: http://bit.ly/1GkP98a 

IndieBound: http://bit.ly/1E5Ee0Y 

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1xc8AOO 

Buy links for A CHRISTMAS HOPE:

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1yc6kCA 

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Kobo: http://bit.ly/1sl3E9b 

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1Bt9d5r 

iTunes: http://bit.ly/1wkC8bl 

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1z3l0Ij

Excerpt:

     Evelyn lowered her gaze to the root she’d tripped over rather than continue to stare at her gallant rescuer. “It’s mostly Louis and Pierre who’ve been interested in reading, but they’ve caught on well.” She slid a few more inches away from him, finagling her feet around the gnarled roots. Breathing was difficult with Joel so close.
     He shifted to lean his shoulder against the tree trunk. “Is something wrong?”
     She pressed her lips together and shook her head. “Are you angry at me? For coming over to the group, instead of staying away like we talked about?” Evelyn flicked a glance at those hazel eyes.
     “No, not at all.”
     Silence reigned for several heartbeats, then she felt his finger beneath her chin. He gently prodded her head upward until she had to look at him. Her stomach flip flopped as she peered fully into his handsome face. Light fuzz covered his chin and jaw. He needed another shave. A strange, irrational thought that she must be the one to do it filled her mind.
     “Are you afraid of something, Evelyn?”
     You.
     She kept the word sealed inside as her thoughts spiraled like a tornado. What if he didn’t reciprocate these growing feelings? What if he decided not to marry her next week? There’d been times over the last few days when she thought Joel was beginning to soften toward her, even like her. She’d notice a lingering look from him or a smile, but they would disappear as quickly as they came and his manner would return to its usual, kind aloofness. Perhaps she ought to be asking him a similar question. What was he afraid of?
     “I’m fine, really.” She swallowed hard. “Just a bit tired is all.”
     Instead of releasing her chin as she expected, Joel lowered his gaze to her mouth. The rush of sound in Evelyn’s ears grew as thunderous as a windstorm.
     Was he going to kiss her? Should she let him?
     She wanted him to kiss her, had dreamt of this moment She held her breath as Joel leaned forward. Closing her eyes, she waited for his lips to reach hers. Would his kiss be as glorious as she’d imagined? Or better? She felt his breath brush her chin, sending her stomach into another frenzy of flutters.
     The sudden blare of horns dropped like a bomb into the quiet of the trees, obliterating their shared moment. Evelyn opened her eyes and turned toward the hospital. “More wounded soldiers.”
     Joel straightened, robbing her of the warmth of his closeness. “Which means more surgeries.”
     His disappointed tone had her hopes soaring heavenward again. Did it mean he cared? “Yes, it does. Will you watch after Louis for me?”
     “I don’t profess to be as good a teacher as you, but I’ll try.”
     “Thank you.”
     She turned to go, but Joel caught her hand, stopping her retreat.
     “Evelyn?”
     “Yes?” She wished she didn’t sound so breathless.
     Wished she didn’t have to leave him.
     He released her hand to brush her cheek with his thumb, heating her skin with the tender touch. “Good luck.”

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Book Review: Mistletoe on Main Street by Olivia Miles

This is a sweet, second-chance romance with likable characters and a charming Christmas setting.
Mistletoe on Main Street
by Olivia Miles

• File Size: 1519 KB
• Print Length: 400 pages
• Publisher: Forever (September 30, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00HQ2N44Y

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Sleigh bells, snow, and second chances . . .
Briar Creek's quaint shop windows, cozy homes nestled in snow, and neighborly residents are what Christmas dreams are made of--for everyone except Grace Madison. She left her hometown years ago to pursue a writing career. But when her father's death leaves his bookstore empty, Grace must return to face why she fled Vermont in the first place: Luke Hastings, who still heats her up like a shot of smoky whiskey on a cold winter's night.
Grace is back, and Luke is worried. How much has she changed as a bestselling author in the big city? What memories will she stir up? And was the choice he made five years ago the biggest mistake of his life?
Now, with their past, present, and future rocking around the Christmas tree, it's time for Grace and Luke to face the music . . . and the mistletoe.

Review:
Grace and Luke were young sweethearts, dating for ten years from middle grade through post graduate days. As their days at school came near an end Luke was prepared to ask Grace to marry him. They would move to the house he had built in their hometown, he would teach school where he was taught and they would settle down to raise a family. But Grace didn’t want to stay in the same “boring” town where she grew up. She wanted to go to the big city and become a famous author. When neither would budge, Grace ran off to New York, crying for her loss and feeling betrayed. Luke remained home and soon met a young woman who wanted the same things he did: to live a quiet life and raise their own children in their home town. Luke married Helen but never quite forgot Grace.

Grace succeeding in writing a best seller and established a routine life in New York but she never forgot about Luke. Five years later Grace returns home to help her family face Christmas after the death of her father earlier in the year. This time Grace has left behind an ex-fiance and a book that the critics declared a bomb.

Grace and Luke come face to face but dance around their past hurts and feelings of abandonment. Luke is filled with guilt and is clinging to the memory of his wife who died unexpectedly two years before. Luke feels he would be betraying Helen if he pursues any feelings for Grace. Besides, he expects Grace will only go away again after the holidays.

Grace wasn’t prepared to see Luke but she was excited to see her family. Her youngest sister, Jane, is there to welcome her with her three year old daughter, Sophie. Although Jane is putting on a good front things don’t seem quite right in her picture perfect domestic life. Meanwhile, middle sister, Anna, is angry that Grace stayed away so long. And all three girls want to find a way to nudger their mother, the once Queen of Christmas, out of her depression.

Grace begins to think that she might stay in cozy Briar Creek where she is needed by her family. Luke may not be giving her a reason to stay but she decides that she must give her father’s beloved bookstore, where she learned to read and dream, a second chance.

Grace and Luke both have a lot of emotional history to deal with and accept. They each have to make sure they know what they want and that they are willing to leave the past and move on to the future. Grace fears that may be a future without each other but she finds new strength in making decisions for her own life.

This read quickly and I enjoyed the easy writing flow.  I liked the strong and humanly fragile sides of the characters. The sisters make a good addition and I suspect there will be stories for them in the future. The small town setting is lovely. The story is not completely predictable as there are side family issues and some set-backs to keep the second-chance romance interesting. I am glad to have read this book and would enjoy more easy romance from Ms. Miles. I recommend this to readers who enjoy an easy read and especially those who like second-chance romance tales.

I received this title from Forever/Hachette, through NetGalley, as part of Release Blitz. Please see the other titles and Giveaway on the Blitz post!

Book Review: Inn at Last Chance by Hope Ramsay

This is a sweet, entertaining romance with a ghostly element.
Inn at Last Chance
by Hope Ramsay

• File Size: 1207 KB
• Print Length: 365 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455522317
• Publisher: Forever (April 29, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00ECEA30M

Genre: Contemporary Romance with Paranormal Element
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
"Last Chance captures the essence of Southern charm and quirkiness. I'm totally captivated!" --- Sherryl Woods, New York Times bestselling author
Jenny Carpenter is the unrivaled pie-baking champion of Last Chance, South Carolina's annual Watermelon Festival and the town's unofficial spinster. With her dream of marriage and children on hold, she focuses on another dream, turning the local haunted house into a charming bed-and-breakfast. But her plans go off course when the home's former owner shows up on her doorstep on a dark and stormy night . . .

Mega-bestselling horror writer Gabriel Raintree is as mysterious and tortured as his heroes. His family's long-deserted mansion is just the inspiration he needs to finish his latest twisted tale, or so he thinks until he learns it's been sold. The new innkeeper proves to be as determined as she is kind, and soon Gabriel finds himself a paying guest in his own home. As Jenny and Gabe bring new passion to the old house, can she convince him to leave the ghosts of his past behind-and make Last Chance their first choice for a future together?

Review:
Things haven’t worked out in the romance department for Jenny so she has sworn off men.  Instead she has turned her efforts to getting her Inn ready to open. She is waiting for furniture and accessories. Instead she finds an large, stray dog in her yard. Then Gabriel Raintree shows up on a dark, stormy night seeking a room. He tries to buy the property back from her and she sends him packing.

Gabe doesn’t want to stay in the rundown motel in town. He is convinced that his writer’s block will be solved if he can only stay in his old childhood home. Gabe gets his wish to stay at the Inn when the library committee convinces Jenny to allow him a room in exchange for him speaking at a fundraiser.

Gabe lost his older brother, Luke, in a shooting accident when Gabe was just a young boy. He doesn’t remember much about the incident but holds anger towards Zeph who claimed blame for the accident. Gabe doesn’t understand why Zeph keeps warning him away from the house. The new dog adopts Gabe who dubs him “Bear” because he looks just like Luke’s dog.

A strange force at the Inn starts to cause mischief, first for Jenny then Gabe. The energy reacts badly when the new preacher in town comes for dinner. Jenny is glad for the chance to impress someone with her cooking since Gabe has refused to eat any of the pastries she makes each morning. Jenny is determined not to let a ghost defeat her dreams. Meanwhile the ghostly presence is helping Gabe with his writing. But the towns folk are questioning Jenny’s behavior and whether Gabe is violent.

Jenny and Gabe fight their attraction to each other for their own reasons. Jenny is afraid of being hurt and rejected again. Gabe has secrets that keep him from becoming involved and from being honest about his circumstances. Still the attraction grows and they are drawn even closer until danger threatens and Gabe’s secrets are revealed.

Can Gabe overcome his past to find a future? Will Jenny get to have her dreams fulfilled? This is worth the reading to find out. The writing moves smoothly and the small, Southern town setting makes it cozy and warm. I liked the tension between Jenny and Gabe which is enhanced by the mystery of the ghost. The long denied, gentle relationship between Zeph and Nita adds to the story, as does the dog character. This is a sweet, engaging series but this story could be a stand alone read with no trouble.

I received this title from the publisher, through NetGalley, for an honest review.

You can find my other reviews from the Last Chance series at THIS LINK.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Windflower by Laura London

I didn’t warm to this story although there was some wonderful descriptive phrasing that I really liked.
The Windflower
by Laura London

• Mass Market Paperback: 544 pages
• Publisher: Forever; Reissue edition (April 29, 2014)
• ISBN-13: 978-1455573288

Genre: Historical Romance, Pirates
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0 (Please note Amazon ratings show others have enjoyed this more than I did.)

Book Description
Publication Date: April 29, 2014
The classic tale of passion on the high seas, available in print for the first time in 20 years . . .

Merry Wilding is a lady of breeding, of innocence, and of breathtaking beauty. With high hopes for a holiday in England, she sets sail from New York-but the tide of her life is destined to turn. Mistakenly swept aboard an infamous pirate ship, Merry finds herself at the mercy of a wicked crew . . . and one sinfully handsome pirate. Soon she's spending her days yearning for escape, and her nights learning the pleasures of captivity.

Devon Crandall believes Merry is in league with his greatest enemy. He's determined to slowly urge her secrets from her. But along the way, he discovers her beautifully unbreakable spirit . . . and a desire unlike any he's ever known. She is hiding something from him, and yet, each day that passes brings her deeper into his heart. When fierce arguments give way to fiercer passion, can a pirate learn to love a woman? Or will true love be lost at sea?

Review:
Merry is a seventeen year old, naive girl with not much to offer but beauty and artist talent. She has been raised in Virginia by her maiden Aunt who longs to return to England where the family had wealth and friends. Merry's older brother pulls her into a spy adventure in order to have her capture the images of some enemies of the American cause. The night they disguise themselves and go to a tavern they run into pirates including the infamous Rand Morgan, an exotic, long-haired boy (Cat) and a devastatingly handsome companion (Devon).

Merry runs into trouble when she slips out back and Devon drags her into a wagon. She is scared to death but the roguish pirate is actually trying to protect her from the other rough men. He suspects she was up to no good as she was dressed as a pregnant peasant - until she lost her stuffing - and she has too much beauty to hide even with that inappropriate disguise.

A month later Merry finds herself heading from New York to England with her Aunt under the escort of Sir Michael Granville. A bad practical joke puts Merry out of her cabin and into Granville’s until hers can be cleared. When pirates sneak aboard to take letters from Granville’s cabin they find a pretty girl there, and take her too delivering her to Rand Morgan’s pirate ship.

Devon is enchanted by the young beauty, but he is coldly angry thinking that Merry is a ‘night bird’ of his hated enemy, Granville. He remembers her from the tavern and tries to bully her to reveal who she is and what secrets she hides. Merry can’t tell the truth as she doesn’t want to expose her brother and cousin as spies. She insists that she is married to the puppeteer from the tavern and was innocently in Granville’s cabin.

Merry is already terrified of the pirates, and her fear increases as Devon and Rand intimidate her and threaten to sell her on a far off island. Rand’s young friend, Cat, becomes her protector. Later other members of the crew become enchanted with her too, although none will challenge Rand’s authority except perhaps the young boy, Raven, who is infatuated enough to help her try to escape.

It is a fine line of fantasy to make pirates be ‘nice’ people and I did enjoy the book more as I got to know the pirate characters and saw their human sides. Unfortunately I had a hard time getting into this story because I didn’t care for the primary characters. Merry was just too young and too weak a character for me to like. Devon was initially too cold and bullying.

I did enjoy some wonderful phrasing and there were some twists nearer that end that made it more interesting. The book took five weeks to read which is really long for me.  In the end I enjoyed the romance but it still didn’t make me warm up too much. Maybe I am not into pirate or kidnap (Stockholm syndrome) stories.  I am sure others who enjoy rich romance might like this more than I did.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This book contained some phrasing that I really enjoyed:

Like a decked sturgeon flipping uselessly from side to side, Merry turned from anger, to fear, to despair, and back again to anger. Page 133.

The night song of the forest was a symphony in crescendo. She could hear the ruin of each withered leaf crushed under her feet, the clatter of displaced gravel, the sharp sigh of the fabric of her gown as it rubbed into her thighs. Noises, sights, and smells were a battering intrusion upon her raw nerves. Page 372.

I received this book from Forever/Grand Central for an honest review.

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Book Review and Giveaway: Hard to Handle (Love in the Balance) by Jessica Lemmon

This is sweetly charming even with its consistent, building sensuality.

Hard to Handle (Love in the Balance)

by Jessica Lemmon

• File Size: 438 KB
• Print Length: 305 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455573787
• Publisher: Forever (October 1, 2013)
• ASIN: B00AG0VMYM

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publication Date: October 1, 2013
ONCE BURNED
Sadie Howard never dates a guy more than once-but Fate has other plans for her when it comes to Aiden Downey, the one that got away. Aiden loved her, left her, and broke her heart. Yet suddenly she's bumping into him at every turn, driven to distraction by his wicked grin and rock-hard body. Now she can't resist finishing what they started-as long as she doesn't let herself fall in love . . .

TWICE AS TEMPTING
Aiden Downey threw away the best thing he ever had when he let Sadie go, and now he's determined to win back the woman he's always wanted. Sadie agrees to let him into her life-and her bed-as long as there are no strings attached. But Aiden's not about to make the same mistake again. Can he convince her to take a second chance on a once-in-a-lifetime love?

Review:
Aiden’s mother was suffering from cancer so he didn’t want to tell her about his failed marriage. He was hurt when his wife had an affair with his best friend and business partner. The business failed too and Aiden was really struggling when his mother decided against chemo treatments and in favor of moving to another state for alternative treatments. Aiden had recently met Sadie and was enchanted with her as they shared time and grew closer over several weeks. But he chose to tell Sadie that their new romance was over when he left to help his mother.

Sadie was planning the marriage of her dreams when she was jilted by her fiancé, Trey. Not only did Trey leave her but he married her younger sister who was light and carefree rather than intense and focused like Sadie. Sadie developed a rule of one date only after losing Trey. Then she met Aiden and let her shields drop. She was excited about the chemistry she had with Aiden and the gentle intimacy they had even without sex. Then he ended their blooming relationship leaving her more heartbroken and angry.

A year later Aiden and Sadie are pushed together at his brother’s wedding to her best friend. Then Sadie discovers that Aiden is the new manager of Axle’s local motorcycle shop, an account she has been pursuing for three years. Sadie gets the account which puts her working closely with Aiden who hopes to buy the chain of shops when Axle retires.

Aiden regrets giving up Sadie and would love to get her back in his arms and life. But Sadie remembers the hurt and wants to protect herself even though the chemistry still runs hot between them. Can Aiden gain his dreams of buying the motorcycle shops and also find a way to gain Sadie’s forgiveness, trust and a commitment beyond the short term?

The attraction between Aiden and Sadie begins quickly and builds through the story. Both characters have flaws and insecurities that are realistic. Sadie is particularly annoying with her wanting to protect herself from any pain when life and love just don't work that way.

I was cautious selecting this title to review as I wasn't sure how sexy it would be and I generally prefer contemporary reads with suspense or mystery plots rather than just romance. This story is definitely all romance and the conflict exists around Aiden's desire for a second chance and Sadie's reluctance to take a risk. This read quickly and the sex is sweet though sensually detailed, but not gritty graphic.  I recommend this to readers who enjoy pure romance and especially like second chance stories.

I received this title from Hachette, through NetGalley, for an honest review.

Hachette/Grand Central Station has allowed me to offer one PRINT Copy for Giveaway.

ENTRY FORM HERE

Don't forget to fill in the form for entry! 

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.  

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

visit the author's website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for print.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 25, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after April 25, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Tall, Dark & Fangsome (Immortality Bites) by Michelle Rowen

There is humor in this light read even though not my cup. 
Tall, Dark & Fangsome (Immortality Bites)
by Michelle Rowen

• Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Forever (September 1, 2009)
• ISBN-10: 0446505854
• ISBN-13: 978-0446505857

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Vampires
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 11, 2009
Sarah Dearly's vampire life is not all B-positive cocktails. A curse made her a nightwalker, the most vicious vamp there is; the charm she wears to curb her deadly tendencies is losing its juice; and a hunter from hell is turning up the heat. Gideon Chase will kill the ones she loves most if she doesn't obey his orders. That includes breaking up with master vampire Thierry and turning Gideon into an immortal vamp so he can escape a doom of eternal hellfire.

Making things worse are Sarah's growing feelings for Gideon, a bad boy who keeps showing a vulnerable side . . . but is it for real? Will Sarah's dark side take over? Or can she cure herself of the nightwalker curse in time to stop Gideon and finally live happily ever after with Thierry . . . forever?

Review:
Sarah Dearly has only been a vampire for a few months but they have been busy months. She has escaped the vampire hunters at least twice and fallen in love with a somber, dark master vampire, Thierry. Escaping vampire hunters has given Sarah a reputation as the Slayer of Slayers. An unpleasant encounter with a witch got her cursed as a nightwalker which means she can’t walk in sunlight and she has an uncontrollable craving to feast on real, living blood. Sarah wears a heavy gold charm on a chain to help control the curse. Others are worried that the charm will weaken so the vampire counsel is talking about killing Sarah.

Another complication in Sarah’s life is that a vampire hunter, Gideon, has been burned by hellfire and is in extreme pain. Gideon has threatened all of Sarah’s loved ones if she doesn’t perform a ritual turning him into a vampire so he can escape the hellfire. Although most of Sarah’s friends try to convince her Gideon is an evil enemy, she has a tendency to have compassion for everyone, even Gideon in his pain.

Sarah and Thierry think they have found true love even though his long time estranged wife, Veronique, has refused an annulment. Sarah and Thierry have told their friends they have broken off their relationship as a means to protect Thierry from Gideon’s threat. Gideon has promised her a spell to remove the nightwalker curse if she will betray the Red Devil to him. Currently Sarah is hiding that she has become a “gopher” running errands for Gideon as she tries to determine whether it will be safe to turn him and how else she might get the spell to lift her curse. Thierry is suspicious of Sarah’s feelings for Gideon so he has convinced a dangerous vampire known as the Red Devil to come out of retirement after 100 years to spy on/protect Sarah.

Sarah has a very sassy and humorous attitude that makes the story fun and light. Unfortunately she makes me think of the stereotype ‘dumb blonde’ (regardless of true hair color) as she can’t make up her mind how to feel about Gideon, she doesn’t seek help from anyone and she continues to do things that she knows are dangerous and not good actions. I really found it rather difficult to like her and therefore hard to become fully engaged. There were some interesting characters including a teenage warlock who plays with spells and demons. I pushed on through, shaking my head at Sarah’s indecision and several improbable scenes.

My conclusion is this is a fun, light read even if it doesn’t make good sense. This series may not be for me but there are lots of positive reviews so plenty of readers apparently like the snarky fun.

I picked this from my "won" books.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my Print Copy.

ENTRY FORM HERE

Don't forget to fill in the form for entry! 

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.  

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

 visit the author's website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for print.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April  4, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after April 4, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Jagged by Kristen Ashley

This is a very engaging, emotionally charged romance. It is a little raw in language but rich in love and happy ending!

Jagged
by Kristen Ashley

• File Size: 1149 KB
• Print Length: 345 pages
• Publisher: Forever (November 5, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00BEK71Q6

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 5, 2013
The next novel in Kristen Ashley's sizzling Colorado Mountain series introduces a new electrifying relationship that turns Carnal, Colorado into a hotbed of action, romance, and suspense.

An old flame rekindled . . .
Zara Cinders always knew Ham Reece was the one, but he wasn't interested in settling down. When she found someone who was, Ham walked out of her life. Three years later, Zara's lost her business, her marriage, and she's barely getting by in a tiny apartment on the wrong side of the tracks. As soon as Ham hears about Zara's plight, he's on her doorstep offering her a lifeline. Now, it will take every ounce of will power she possesses to resist all that he offers.

Ham was always a traveling man, never one to settle down in one town, with one woman, for more time than absolutely necessary. But Ham's faced his own demons, and he's learned a lot. About himself, and about the life he knows he's meant to live. So when he hears that Zara's having a rough time, he wants to be the one to help. In fact, he wants to do more than that for Zara. A lot more. But first, he must prove to Zara that he's a changed man.

Review:
I think any woman who has ever loved a ‘rolling stone’, non-committing man can relate to the emotional heart wrench of Zara’s experience of letting Ham go. It is kind of nice to suspect while reading that this is likely to have a Happy Ending even though real life doesn’t always work that way.

Zara is thirty-two and at a low stage in her life. She’d had a domineering and abusive father and a weak submissive mother. Both she and her older sister escaped the home as soon as they were old enough. Her sister Xenia fell into bad habits of alcohol, drugs and men, ending in a coma after a bad accident. Zara met Ham when she was twenty-four and he was the best thing in her life to that point. But Ham was a bartender and a traveling man. He took good care of her when he was there and he came to help her when she was distressed but he didn’t commit and he didn’t stay.

After five years of that relationship Zara was hungry for stability and a family. She let Ham go and married Greg who adored her. She thought she loved him but it wasn’t enough when her heart was already given elsewhere. Zara lost her marriage to guilt, her business to recession and her house to foreclosure.

Zara is struggling day to day when Ham returns to pull her out of her shabby apartment. He has taken the job as manager at a local bar and he gets her to waitress there where she will earn three times what she was making at a regular day job. Ham, at forty-three, knows now that he wants Zara but he realizes that she has to get on her feet a bit and he will have to show that he is ready to settle and stay this time...with only her.

At this point the story was a third in and I wondered how the author was going to stretch the rest of this without just dragging along the relationship. Fortunately there was more story to come! Zara and Ham learn that her sister has just died and the nephew born nine years earlier wasn’t given away for adoption but is being raised in a nearby town by an Aunt. This begins a whole new angle in an already engaging story.

"Jagged" is a perfect title for the emotional levels in this story. It applies at different times and under different circumstances to both Ham and Zara, although the author presents it more with the less verbal male expressions. I was completely pulled in by the depth of the emotions and a plot that could be real life. The characters might be stereotyped by their jobs and their loose language but to do so makes me feel I am being snobbish. Even though I might not be able to relate totally to the characters I could relate to the confusion, insecurities and courage it takes to risk in loving that are wonderfully portrayed through this relationship.

There is much more foul language and more detail in the sex area than I like. However the sexual scenes, in their passion, fun and intensity, reflect a strong, healthy, loving relationship. By the time the language began to bother me a bit I was too far engaged to want to stop. I can understand why many romance readers would enjoy Ms. Ashley’s stories if they don't mind the rough language and they like strong, life-like characters and true-grit emotions struggling to a happy ending.

This is another title I received from Forever/Hachette for launch day Blitz which posted Tuesday with Giveaway.