REVIEW: COMANCHE MAGIC BY CATHERINE ANDERSON

(Comanche, #4)

Genre: Historical Romance (Western)

Cover Blurb:

Handsome, strong, and just a little bit dangerous, half-Comanche Chase Wolf is used to getting what he wants. So when he sees Franny — a golden-haired angel with deep green eyes, delicate features, and the sweetest smile — he sets out to make her his. But far from the innocent she seems, Franny is the local “unfortunate,” who services men above the Lucky Nugget salon. The shocking truth sends Chase reeling.

Long ago, circumstance forced Franny to make a terrible choice in order to provide for those she holds dearest. Now she lives a secret double life — respectable in one world, shunned in another — always fearful of discovery, forever marked by shame.

But Chase’s love for Franny is persistent and patient and knows no bounds. He offers her a life she longs to claim but believes she can’t possibly deserve. Franny tries to resist Chase, but he won’t listen to reason, and he won’t stop trying until her defenses have fallen, her heart is healed, and their love has triumphed

♥♥♥♥♥♥

I loved this book! Catherine Anderson really tugged at my heart strings with this beautiful and deeply moving story of sorrow and heartache but also compassion, understanding, love and redemption. Ms Anderson always impresses me with the emotional depth of her writing and her ability to draw me into the lives of her characters and make me care deeply about them.

What struck Chase was how sweet and innocent she looked, the kind who made a man want to fight mountain lions for her and win.

A prostitute as a heroine shouldn’t work on many levels but Ms Anderson made Franny such a unique and sympathetic character that my heart ached for her.  I didn’t see her as she sees herself – a lost soul and soiled – I saw a lovely, sweet, innocent, warm person who had selflessly sacrificed so much for those she loved. She needed someone who could love her and prove to her that she was worthy of being loved. Chase was just that person.

She had known lots of men, but none had made her feel like this, as if she had been waiting all her life to set eyes on him.

I lost my heart to Chase.  His hero status is a bit shaky at first…

“Stay away from my sister and her kids. The last thing she needs is a tarnished little whore playing on her sympathy and messing up her life.”

but, with a little wisdom from his father, he soon becomes a wonderful hero who is kind, patient and compassionate, willing to love Franny unconditionally. I sighed when he told her:

“You are one in a million. Beautiful, sweet, desirable. Being with you makes me feel ten feet tall.”

I was so proud when he confronts Franny’s  self-centred family with some hard home truths.

The romance is handled with sensitivity and the scene where Chase finally makes love to Franny is both beautiful and sensual.

I love Chase’s wonderful parents; his full-blooded Comanche father, Hunter – purer of heart and noble to his bone – and his mother, Loretta – with a heart the size of Texas. Hunter follows the old ways and he imparts so many pearls of wisdom.

“The standards you set—only a saint could live by them, and I’m no saint. Not anything close.”

“They are a map I drew for you, Chase, nothing more. I tried to mark the way clearly, but as with all maps, there is more than one route. You must choose the way you will go.” (Hunter to Chase)

“Around here, no one will trip you, so you need not watch your feet. If you stumble, one of us will catch you from falling. So look up, yes? The best things in life are ahead of you, daughter. If you hang your head, you may miss them.” (Hunter to Franny)

I love how the whole Wolf family are willing to embrace Franny and accept her without hesitation.

The Epilogue left me with a deep sigh of satisfaction and a few tears.

This is the final book in Ms Anderson’s outstanding Comanche series and a story that really touches the heart. This is a series not to be missed.

REVIEW RATING:  5/5 Stars

SENSUALITY RATING: WARM

Read March 2014

Comanche series (click on book covers for more details):

   

 

 

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REVIEW: JEWEL OF THE EAST BY VICTORIA VANE

(The Devil DeVere, #5)

Genre: Erotic Historical Romance (Georgian)

Cover Blurb

Having once lived his life only for larks, laughter, and ladies of easy virtue, Captain Simon Singleton has returned from the war with the colonies a shambles of a man. Now free from six years of captivity, he’s still fettered by irrational fears that confine him to a life of seclusion.

Once the crowning jewel of the most lavish brothel in London, the exotic Salime finds her reputation and livelihood destroyed by a bitter rival. With a closely guarded secret stripped away, Salime fears no man will ever desire her again. Seeking aid from the man who once saved her life, Salime accepts a proposition to repay her debt to him by becoming a companion to his war-scarred friend.

Circumstance brings these two damaged souls together; but fate ignites a love story worthy of the Arabian Nights.

*May be read as a standalone*

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

**5 Mesmerising Stellar Stars**

Ever since Victoria Vane announced that she was writing Salime and Simon’s story, I have been anxiously waiting to read it. Does it live up to my expectations? YES! It’s romantic, sensual, emotional and erotic and I loved every page! Ms. Vane has the ability to infuse her books with such realism, and her characters have such depth and feeling.

I love Salime and she must be one of the most unique heroines I have ever come across…a Turkish courtesan and a former slave at the Topkapi Palace. It makes her such an intriguing character, in Simon’s words…

She was a perplexing paradox—fiercely proud and demure, meek yet bold, submissive yet self-assured.

With everything life has thrown at her, Salime has had to be strong to survive. She accepts her life because she knows that having all those things that other women have…love, a husband and a family are just an impossible dream. Ms Vane has worked her magic to create such a wonderfully sympathetic character. I desperately wanted Salime to find a man who could see the beautiful woman she truly is and love her without reservation.

What can I say about Simon! DeVere will always remain my favourite but Simon is close on his heels. After watching the antics of the devil-may-care young man in The Trouble with Sin, it’s a shock to see the tormented man he has become…a man who has given up on life.

But now, he was himself a shattered shambles of a man. Feeling neither alive nor dead, he was doomed to this horrific half-existence, destined to be a mere observer. Life as he remembered it—the one he had desperately hoped to resume—was over.

Even his best friends, DeVere and Ned, are shocked to see the thin, unkempt, short-tempered, bearded man before them. Simon may have given up on himself, but his friends aren’t about to give up on him. I love DeVere and Ned…everyone needs friends like that.

Their compassion and sheer doggedness had finally worn him down. Simon raised his hands in surrender. “All right. You win. I’ll go to Bloomsbury.”

I love Ms Vane’s evocative writing which appeals to all the senses. I could see the sumptuous room with its silk hangings and low-burning brass lanterns and Salime in her voluminous Turkish trousers; smell the jasmine and exotic spices; taste the dark Turkish coffee; hear Salime’s soothing voice.

Salime and Simon definitely heat up the pages! I love the slow burning attraction between them and the scene where Salime dances for Simon just oozes sensuality…no wonder he is totally mesmerised. Ms Vane’s love scenes are vivid, passionate and scorching hot.

I love how the Turkish exotic arts and culture are woven into the story and form an integral part of the developing relationship between Salime and Simon …the stories and poems, the hookah and the hammam.

There seem insurmountable obstacles facing Salime and Simon but I think Ms Vane resolves everything in a way that is believable and gives these two wounded souls the Happy Ever After they truly deserve. The scene at the end with the wedding gifts is totally sigh-worthy.

Favourite Romantic Quote

“There are no words to express what I feel,” she gushed. “It is a gift beyond all gifts.” 
He pulled her tightly into his arms. “No, my dearest…that would be you.”

If you haven’t read this series yet, then you have a treat in store. Each book is an amazing read and Ms Vane has promised more books which is fabulous news!

REVIEW RATING: STELLAR 5 STARS

SENSUALITY RATING: SIZZLING

Read January 2014

The Devil DeVere series so far (click on the covers for more details):

    

Devilish Vignettes:

 

My sincere thanks to Victoria Vane for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review. As always, it was a pleasure reading it.

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NEW REVIEW OF THE GOVERNESS AFFAIR BY COURTNEY MILAN

(Brothers Sinister #0.5)

Genre: Victorian Historical Romance

Official Blurb 

She will not give up…

Three months ago, governess Serena Barton was let go from her position. Unable to find new work, she’s demanding compensation from the man who got her sacked: a petty, selfish, swinish duke. But it’s not the duke she fears. It’s his merciless man of business—the man known as the Wolf of Clermont. The formidable former pugilist has a black reputation for handling all the duke’s dirty business, and when the duke turns her case over to him, she doesn’t stand a chance. But she can’t stop trying—not with her entire future at stake.

He cannot give in…

Hugo Marshall is a man of ruthless ambition—a characteristic that has served him well, elevating the coal miner’s son to the right hand man of a duke. When his employer orders him to get rid of the pestering governess by fair means or foul, it’s just another day at the office. Unfortunately, fair means don’t work on Serena, and as he comes to know her, he discovers that he can’t bear to use foul ones. But everything he has worked for depends upon seeing her gone. He’ll have to choose between the life that he needs, and the woman he is coming to love…

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

I admit that I am totally in awe of Courtney Milan’s books. Whether she is writing full length novels or novellas, her stories are original, her characters are unique and her writing is emotive, evocative and sensual. 

THE GOVERNESS AFFAIR, the prequel to the Brothers Sinister series, is a tender, romantic and passionate love story.

Hugo is such a wonderful hero. On the surface he is all ruthlessness and ambition but I saw the chinks in his armour when he treats Serena with such kindness. I love the scene where he takes her some towels, hot tea, sandwiches and an umbrella. It reveals the honourable man lurking just beneath that tough surface and Serena brings out the best in him.

I adore Serena… the way she refuses to be a passive victim and her determination to seek justice for what happened to her. She also has to cope with her agoraphobic sister, Freddy, and the often fraught relationship between them adds another interesting layer to the story.

The romance…the battle of wills, the witty banter, the flirtatious messages, the innovative, tender, sexy ‘pins’ scene, the heart-warming ending… is charming, believable and beautifully realised.

I cheered when Hugo finally told the Duke of Clermont some home truths and successfully turned the tables on him.

I would have preferred the Epilogue to have focused on Serena and Hugo and their HEA but the glimpse of the future heroes of the Brothers Sinister series certainly made me want to read their stories.

THE GOVERNESS AFFAIR has once again confirmed why Courtney Milan is on my auto-buy list. A definite keeper!

REVIEW RATING: 5/5 stars

SENSUALITY RATING : HOT

Read July/August 2013

Brothers Sinister series to date (click on cover for more details):

    – Dec. 2013
– 2014

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NEW REVIEW OF THE BILLIONAIRE’S BOUGHT MISTRESS BY ANNIE WEST

Genre: Contemporary

Official Blurb 

Brooding tycoon Rafe Benton sees beautiful Antonia Malleson as a pawn in his plans to avenge his family’s mistreatment by his brutish father. He decides to use his wealth and devastating sex appeal to get this delectable ice queen-and his father’s newest favorite-into his bed….

Now Rafe has Antonia right where he wants her, but her innocence changes everything. Suddenly he’s forced to question his own behavior and the depth of his feelings for Antonia. Could it be that this dark and dangerous man has finally found the woman to melt his frozen heart?

★✩★✩★✩★

This is the second book I have read by Annie West and, once again, she doesn’t disappoint. I loved this passionate, emotional and intense romance.

Rafe 

Rafe Benton is arrogant ,self-opinionated and domineering. He has no qualms about blackmailing Antonia Malleson into becoming his mistress for six months. She will be the perfect tool in his plan of revenge against the father who seduced, abandoned and ultimately destroyed Rafe’s mother. After all, Ms Malleson is nothing more than a cold-hearted, manipulative money-digger!

Antonia 

Antonia Malleson is in an untenable position. She desperately needs money to save her family name and her late father’s reputation. There is only one solution…however unpalatable…become Rafe Benton’s mistress for six months.

Oh boy, do the sparks fly between these two! The sexual tension positively sizzles, heightened by Rafe thinking he has the upper hand while Antonia is determined to show him that she still has a mind and a will of her own. I love the part where, unable to hide the fact that she is obviously Rafe’s mistress, Antonia decides to flaunt her status as a gesture of defiance. So when Rafe insists…

“I want you looking spectacular tonight. Don’t disappoint me.”

…he gets more than he bargained for!

I love how Ms West shows the subtle changes in their relationship as they gradually fall in love. Something as simple as a look or a kiss seems to speak a thousand words:

He took in her large eyes, her lush mouth, her classic beauty, and felt something tug deep inside him. A need to banish the shadows from her eyes.
Rafe put his finger under her chin, revelling in the soft texture of her flesh, and tilted her face up. He leaned forward and pressed a slow, tender kiss to her lips.

When Rafe kissed her like that, Antonia’s mind ceased to function. Instead she was simply aware. Of him, of the steady acceleration of her pulse as desire built, and of a warmth that was more of the spirit than the body.

Ms West certainly knows how to write hot, steamy, and emotional love scenes. Here are a few tantalizing tidbits!

Her slim fingers touched him and thought fled. He held his breath as tentatively, softly, her fingers fluttered over him. She fumbled with the condom, paused and tried again.

He lingered,stroked, his caresses languorous , then purposeful. And through it all his eyes held hers captive.

He lifted his hands to the back zip of her trousers and eased it down, enjoying the view of her naked cheeks. He’d been mistaken. She was wearing a tiny wisp of a thong. He hooked a finger underneath it and traced her bare flesh, enjoying the tremor she couldn’t hide.

I really wanted to slap Rafe when he misconstrues the situation between Antonia and his father. When Antonia discovers the full truth behind his proposition, I was so glad she gave it to him straight. It forced him to re-evaluate his life and prove himself worthy of her love.

If I have one little niggle, it is that the story ends rather too abruptly. Call me sentimental but I would have liked a charming Epilogue.

Overall, this passionate, emotional and sensual love story was a great read!

REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 Stars 

SENSUALITY RATING: HOT 

Read July 2013

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NEW REVIEW OF A NIGHT LIKE THIS BY JULIA QUINN

(Smythe-Smith Quartet #2)

Genre: Historical Romance

Official Blurb 

Anne Wynter’s job as governess to three highborn young ladies can be a challenge – in a single week she finds herself hiding in a closet full of tubas, playing an evil queen in a play and tending to the wounds of the oh-so-dashing Earl of Winstead. After years of dodging unwanted advances, he’s the first man who has truly tempted her, and it’s getting harder and harder to remind herself that a governess has no business flirting with a nobleman.

Daniel made a terrible mistake in his youth and Smythe-Smith might be in mortal danger, but that’s not going to stop the young earl from falling in love. And when he spies a mysterious woman at his family’s annual musicale, he vows to pursue her. But Daniel has an enemy, one who has vowed to see him dead. And when Anne is thrown into peril, he will stop at nothing to ensure their happy ending…

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

A NIGHT LIKE THIS is the second book in the Smythe-Smith Quartet series and, although I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as the first book JUST LIKE HEAVEN, it still combines all the elements that make Julia Quinn an absolute favourite of mine. I always know that I’m going to be drawn into her captivating world full of wonderful, loveable, quirky characters.

I completely fell for Daniel’s charm and wicked sense of humour. He’s someone who has learned from his past mistakes and takes his responsibilities seriously. I couldn’t help but adore a man who genuinely loves his family and obviously adores his Pleinsworth cousins.

It was good to be home. Even with the cacophony.
Especially with the cacophony. Nothing said “home” to a Smythe-Smith male like badly played music.

I love how the moment Daniel sets eyes on Anne, he is totally besotted and willing to do anything to be near her, even play the protagonist in his cousin Harriet’s impromptu play! What follows is a laugh-out-loud scene which showcases Ms Quinn’s sparkling, witty dialogue:

“Ah, yes,” Daniel said. “Yes, of course. Sadly, I do know a bit about facial disfigurement at present.”
“At least you won’t need any makeup,” Elizabeth said.
Daniel was thanking God for small favors, but then Harriet said, “Well, except for the wart.”

Warning! Do not mention the …

Anne is a delightful heroine. Charming, intelligent and kind, she’s understanding but firm with her charges. She never takes anything for granted but appreciates the stability, position and self-respect she has working as a governess for the Pleinsworths. As the secrets she keeps so closely guarded are finally revealed, the story takes on a more dramatic tone than usually found in Ms Quinn’s books. When her past finally catches up with her, she’s no wimpy miss but refuses to submit without a fight.

If Anne was going to be saved, she would have to do it herself.
“It is time to be your own heroine,” she whispered.

I enjoyed watching the relationship between Daniel and Anne unfold; hearing their thoughts and feeling their emotions:

the initial attraction… 

Time stopped. It simply stopped. It was the most maudlin and clichéd way of describing it, but those few seconds when her face was lifted toward his … they stretched and pulled, melting into eternity.

♥♥

Anne’s lips parted. His skin was warm, and now hers was hot where he touched her. Something strange and vaguely familiar bubbled within her, and with a prickle of shock she realized it was excitement.

the yearning… 

“I want the kiss,” he said huskily, “and then I want more. I want things you cannot even know about.”
They stood in silence, eyes locked.
“But most of all,” he whispered, “I want to kiss you.”
And then, in a voice so soft it was barely more than breath, she said, “I want it, too.”

the final surrender… 

“Oh, Daniel …”
His lips found her ear again, and his voice was hot and husky on her skin. “Before the night is through, I’m going to make you scream.”
She had just enough sense left to say, “No. You can’t.”
He lifted her against him, with just enough roughness that her feet left the ground and she had no choice but to wrap her legs around his. “I assure you, I can.”

There is always a strong sense of family which I love about Ms Quinn’s books. The friendly bickering between the Pleinsworth sisters, Harriet, Elizabeth and Frances always made me smile.

I was intrigued by Daniel’s friend, Hugh Prentice and I was hoping he would have his own book. So I’m a happy bunny because Ms Quinn’s next book, THE SUM OF ALL KISSES (29 October 2013) features Hugh as the hero and Sarah, the eldest of Pleinsworth sisters, as the heroine. I am definitely looking forward to the next performance by the Smythe-Smith Quartet.

The villain of the piece is suitably menacing, if just a little bit over the top, but I liked the dramatic climax in which Daniel proves to be the perfect “knight in shining armour” and Anne proves that women aren’t just decorative.

I don’t think Ms Quinn has ever surpassed her brilliant Bridgerton series but A NIGHT LIKE THIS is a delightful story full of romance, charm and humour.

REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 Stars

SENSUALITY RATING: WARM

Read June 2013

The Smythe-Smith Quartet series (click on book cover for more details)

  

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NEW REVIEW OF WAKING UP WITH THE DUKE BY LORRAINE HEATH

(London’s Greatest Lovers #3)

Genre: Historical Romance

Official Blurb 

They are masters of seduction, London’s greatest lovers…

Renowned for his bedchamber prowess, Ransom Seymour, the Duke of Ainsley, owes a debt to a friend. But the payment expected is most shocking, even to an unrepentant rake—for he’s being asked to provide his friend’s exquisite wife with what she most dearly covets: a child.

Living for pleasure, they will give their hearts to no one…

Lady Jayne Seymour, Marchioness of Walfort, is furious that such a scandalous agreement would be made. If she acquiesces, there must be rules: no kissing, and certainly, no pleasure.

Until love takes them by surprise…

But unexpected things occur with the surprisingly tender duke—especially once Lady Jayne discovers the rogue can make her dream again . . . and Ransom realizes he’s found the one woman he truly cannot live without.

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

I love this book! Lorraine Heath proves yet again why she is one of favourite authors with this beautifully written and wonderfully romantic love story.

Ainsley really made this book for me. He’s such a wonderful hero; a tender, sweet, caring man. I love how he treats Jayne with such patience and sensitivity; how he is totally devoted to fulfilling her every desire; how he makes her feel treasured.

He wanted her to have happiness. He wanted to give her what Walfort could not, regardless of the cost to himself.

My heart went out to Jayne. She has lost everything but still shows strength and courage. She remains a devoted wife despite her husband’s lack of affection but longs for things she cannot have.

…she so desperately wanted to feel again. Pleasure, hope, possibilities, dreams, passion.

I love how Ms Heath shows the relationship between Ainsley and Jayne slowly changing over the course of the month they spend together. She makes their romance both believable and emotionally satisfying. Jayne’s feelings towards Ainsley don’t suddenly change overnight but, as they spend more time together, she comes to enjoy his company, to understand him, to respect him and ultimately fall in love with him.

She was capturing more glimpses into the man, and each one touched her heart.

Who wouldn’t fall in love with a man who treats you like the most precious woman in the world?

I have always admired Ms Heath’s writing. Highly evocative, deeply emotional and lushly sensual, she creates a real sense of mood and atmosphere whether it’s moments that are…

romantic… 

“I love you, Jayne Seymour, future Duchess of Ainsley, with all my heart and soul.”

or

poignant… 

Lowering his head, he placed a kiss on the spot where their child—for this moment in time it was theirs—grew.

or

sensual… 

His talented hands roamed over every dip, peak, and valley. His mouth left hers, to journey along her flesh, trailing across her neck, teasing the delicate underside of her chin. Lower, to her shoulders. A nip here. A love bite there.

Walfort is a difficult character to define. I suppose you would have to call him the villain of the piece but his actions aren’t truly villainous and I’m glad that Ms Heath paints him in shades of grey rather than stark black. I certainly didn’t like him for all the pain he caused Jayne but neither could I truly hate him.

In the previous books, I always had a soft spot for Ainsley’s mother, Tess and her younger lover, Leo. Tess loves her sons and really wants to see them happy and Leo is such a sweetheart and it’s obvious he loves Tess to distraction. I was so pleased to see them finally get their Happy Ever After.

His arm came around her, holding her near. It took long moments for their breathing to return to normal, for their hearts to stop pounding. Content, she began drifting off to sleep.
“By the way, Tess . . .”
“Hmm?”
“The answer is yes. I’ll marry you.”

This is such a beautifully crafted and emotionally satisfying love story which really touches the heart. Highly recommended.

RATING : 5/5 Stars

SENSUALITY RATING : HOT

London’s Greatest Lovers series (click on book for more details)

  

Read June 2013

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NEW REVIEW OF THE VISCOUNT’S PLEASURE HOUSE BY SUZI LOVE

Genre; Historical Erotic Romance

Official Blurb 

Lady Chrissie Wellsby and her two country friends research dozens of rogues before selecting the notorious Viscount Hawkesbury, owner of London’s most exclusive and expensive brothel, to educate them in erotic seduction. The ladies abandon respectability and coerce Justin Tremayne into letting them visit The Pleasure House and to teaching them the sensual tricks mistresses and prostitutes use to entertain men.

Though Justin believes three naive ladies will see the debauched romps in his themed rooms, cover their eyes and ears, and run back to their sheltered lives, he underestimates the desperation of abandoned women who imagine a wider knowledge of sex will keep the men in their lives at home, in their own beds. But despite watching several of their friends, men and women, perform raunchy acts at his brothel, the ladies insist on participating in the last of Justin’s infamous Sultan’s galas, held in numerous silk tents and outdoor bathing areas on his estate.

Justin concedes to Chrissie’s demands only to gain information about his long-lost mother and sisters, but the world-weary viscount falls head over heels in love with his emotionally bruised pupil. He yearns for a wife, children, and an uncomplicated wife, but can he convinced Chrissie to take a chance and marry again? Because Justin never wants to leave her bed.

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

What a delightful surprise this book turned out to be!

OK, there were plenty of scenes depicting all kinds of lascivious behaviour but there was so much more to this book I hadn’t anticipated – a wickedly entertaining plot, likeable characters, delicious sexual tension, ribald humour and a rich historical atmosphere.

Justin just seemed to weave his way into my heart. His hedonistic lifestyle belies the fact that, at heart, he is an honourable man. Everything he’s done has been with one purpose – to provide him with enough money to restore the family estate and find his mother and his sisters and bring them home. The past three years have obviously taken their toll and he’s desperate to leave all this behind and become a part of conventional society again.

He really cares about his friends, Bart and Thomas, and even surrounded by all nature of sexual excess…

…he wasn’t willing to compromise his entire moral belief structure. Nor would he dirty the morals of his friends to that extent, knowing they’d both need to take wives one day in the future.

If that wasn’t enough, I simply adore a man with a sense of humour.

Chrissie has some pluck bearding Justin in his den but it shows how much she cares for her friends Anna and Gillian and wants to help them with their personal issues.

I love the fact that she is not some ravishing beauty, quite ordinary in fact, but Justin is able to see her inner beauty…

“Yours is a far deeper beauty. It shines through from the inside out. An inner radiance lights up your features and entrances a man so he cannot look away.”

It was a joy to see her regain her self confidence and realise that she’s a warm, passionate woman. I loved the scene where she turns the tables on Justin and assumes the role of seductress. It was amusing to see Justin so completely lost for words and I loved this gem from Chrissie!

“I do hope, my darling,” she said, touching his face to bring his gaze back to hers, “you’re not going to waste precious time doing that groaning thing again.” She softened her words with a smile, stretched up to her toes to touch his lips, butterflies wings flitting softly. “You know, those pleas and moans you insist on directing at angels frolicking across your ceiling.”

Ms Love builds some sizzling sexual tension between these two. The mutual attraction was palpable in their initial battle of wills, escalating to the scene in the Pleasure House where they have to assume the roles of master and slave. This is one HOT scene and, for any oldies like me, keep those smelling salts handy!!

The secondary characters enhance the story but never overwhelm the main romance. I enjoyed seeing husband and wife, Gillian and Edward resolve their marriage issues and the rivalry between Bart and Thomas for Anna’s attentions was amusing.

If you’re looking for a romance that is refreshingly different, wickedly funny, full of richly drawn characters and plenty of scandalous sexcapades, then I can definitely recommend this book! I am looking forward to reading more from Suzi Love!

RATING: 4.5/5 Stars

SENSUALITY RATING : SIZZLING!

Read June 2013

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NEW REVIEW OF ANY DUCHESS WILL DO BY TESSA DARE

(Spindle Cove #4)

Genre: Historical Romance

Official Blurb 

Griffin York, the Duke of Halford, has no desire to wed this season—or any season—but his diabolical mother abducts him to “Spinster Cove” and insists he select a bride from the ladies in residence. Griff decides to teach her a lesson that will end the marriage debate forever. He chooses the serving girl.

Overworked and struggling, Pauline Simms doesn’t dream about dukes. All she wants is to hang up her barmaid apron and open a bookshop. That dream becomes a possibility when an arrogant, sinfully attractive duke offers her a small fortune for a week’s employment. Her duties are simple: submit to his mother’s “duchess training”… and fail miserably.

But in London, Pauline isn’t a miserable failure. She’s a brave, quick-witted, beguiling failure—a woman who ignites Griff’s desire and soothes the darkness in his soul. Keeping Pauline by his side won’t be easy. Even if Society could accept a serving girl duchess—can a roguish duke convince a serving girl to trust him with her heart?

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

There are just not enough superlatives to describe this book. ANY DUCHESS WILL DO has edged A WEEK TO BE WICKED into second place as my choice for the best book in this series. A ginormous feat considering how much I love Colin and Minerva!

There are so many things I love about this book, it’s difficult to know where to start but I’ll try.

The story blends all the magic of …

Pygmalion

My Fair Lady

and

Cinderella

The book is rich in humour and the sparkling dialogue provides so many memorable laugh-out-loud moments…

“Cor”. She unleashed her broadest country accent as she tipped her head to admire the curve of his tight, aristocratic arse. “I’ll have great fun with you on the wedding night.”

I love how Ms Dare tempers the lighter moments with moments that are so heart-rending…

When he tried to stand, he couldn’t. Grief seized like a savage, crippling pain. Like an auger drilling on his heart. It hollowed him out, left a round aching hole – one he knew would never be filled.

I adore Griff and Pauline. These two seem worlds apart but you know they are so right for each other. They are two parts of a whole and proof that true love will always find a way.

Pauline on Griff… The intruder was life-shattering, heart-muddling, oft-maddening Griff.

Griff on Pauline… Lord above. She had him enraptured to the point of drooling incoherence, and she had absolutely no idea.

This book has the most wickedly delicious, sizzlingly sexy, toe-curling love scenes ever! Chapter 21 should definitely come with a warning – READ AT YOUR PERIL! HIGHLY COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL! 

I started out disliking Griff’s mother, the Duchess of Halford. After all what kind of mother drugs and kidnaps her own son! But her weakness for knitting misshapen items totally swayed my opinion but you’ll have to read the book to discover why!

I shed tears along the way; I hooted with laughter plenty of times; I sighed at the dreamy romantic moments; I nearly had to dowse myself with cold water at one point and finally I cheered for Griff and Pauline’s dreamy Happy Ever After.

She turned away burying her face in her apron. Griffin Eliot York, the eighth Duke Of Halford, was here, on his knees. For her. Ring in hand, with the whole village watching.

What else can I say about this book other than – FABULOUS! AMAZING! FANTASTIC! JUST AWESOME! IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN!

RATING: STELLAR 5 STARS

SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!!

Read May 2013

The Spindle Cove Series (click on cover for more details):

     

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NEW REVIEW OF NEVER A MISTRESS, NO LONGER A MAID BY MAUREEN DRISCOLL

(Kellington #1)

Genre : Historical Romance

Official Blurb 

Caught behind enemy lines at the Battle of Waterloo, nurse Jane Wetherby is forced to seek shelter with British operative Lord Edward Kellington. After a night of passion, the two are separated. With nothing but the alias Jane used to protect her family, Lord Edward is unable to find the woman he cannot forget.

Seven years later, Jane courts scandal by serving as the unofficial surgeon in the village of Marston Vale. When Edward arrives to formalize his betrothal to a viscount’s daughter in accordance with his late father’s wishes, Jane has no choice but to watch the match proceed. When a threat from the past emerges, Jane must join forces with Edward to safeguard her loved ones. But at what risk to her heart?

★✩★✩★✩★✩★

I really enjoyed this book! It combined all the right ingredients; a lovely heroine, a worthy hero, lively repartee, delicious sensuality, a little intrigue and an array of interesting secondary characters.

What I love about Ned…

– his charm and wit
– his kindness and generosity to others regardless of their station in life
– his protectiveness towards those he loves and cares about
– his support and admiration for Jane
– his uncertainties about being a father
– a real romantic at heart but would never admit it

What I love about Jane…

– her determination to keep her child despite being disowned by her grandfather and ostracised by society
– her strength and resilience in the face of all her difficulties
– her unwavering love for her daughter Violet (Vi)
– her compassion, kindness and generosity to those who need her help
– her outspokenness and refusal to be brow-beaten, particularly by our hero

I enjoyed the development of the romance between Ned and Jane and their scenes together positively sizzle with sexual tension. Although the book is categorised as erotic, I didn’t find it overly so. The love scenes are definitely HOT on my sensuality rating but without being too graphic. Their road to happiness is a rocky one littered with obstacles but it all serves to push Ned and Jane into declaring their love for each other and treating me to a most satisfying happy ending.

Ms Driscoll has gathered together an interesting cast of secondary characters including Elizabeth, Ned’s independent and out-spoken sister, the rather austere Duke of Lynwood, Ned’s eldest brother, and the enchanting Violet who really captured my heart. The scenes between Ned and Vi are utterly delightful. I absolutely loved the teasing and light-hearted banter between the Kellington brothers.

I did notice a few modern words creeping into the dialogue but they certainly didn’t spoil my overall enjoyment of the story.

A few favourite quotes…

I hope you’re sewing the wound expeditiously and not creating an embroidery pattern as if amusing yourself on a winter’s day.”

“Do you have brothers and sisters?” Vi asked him.
“Three brothers and one sister.”
Vi’s eyes lit up. “I’d love to have three brothers and a sister. All I have is Titania.”
“Yes, but at least Titania catches mice. I’m afraid none of my brothers can catch mice, although I’m sure my sister is clever enough to do so.”
“What are their names?”
“The mice my sister catches? I’m not sure she ever named them.”
Vi broke out in giggles and Ned felt punched in the gut. He wasn’t sure he’d ever heard a sweeter sound.

“So, Ned, you nodcock,” said Lizzie as she poured herself and Jane a brandy, “what’s this about you getting engaged to a termagant with the fashion sense of a nearsighted opera dancer?”

This was Maureen Driscoll’s debut novel and the first book in her Kellington family series. Having read and enjoyed Never a Mistress, No Longer a Maid, I’m certainly keen to read the other siblings’ stories.

VERDICT: A VERY GOOD READ

RATING: 4/5 Stars

SENSUALITY RATING: HOT

Read May 2013

My sincere thanks to Maureen Driscoll for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

The Kellington Series (click on the cover for more details):

    

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NEW REVIEW OF LORD OF DARKNESS BY ELIZABETH HOYT

*Book 5 of the MAIDEN LANE series*

Setting :  London, England, 1740

Official Blurb

When Strangers In The Night

He lives in the shadows. As the mysterious masked avenger known as the Ghost of St. Giles, Godric St. John’s only goal is to protect the innocent of London. Until the night he confronts a fearless young lady pointing a pistol at his head—and realizes she is his wife.

Become Lovers…

Lady Margaret Reading has vowed to kill the Ghost of St. Giles—the man who murdered her one true love. Returning to London, and to the man she hasn’t seen since their wedding day, Margaret does not recognize the man behind the mask. Fierce, commanding, and dangerous, the notorious Ghost of St. Giles is everything she feared he would be—and so much more.

Desire Is The Ultimate Danger

When passion flares, these two intimate strangers can’t keep from revealing more of themselves than they had ever planned. But when Margaret learns the truth—that the Ghost is her husband—the game is up and the players must surrender…to the temptation that could destroy them both.

★✩★✩★✩★✩★✩★✩★

“I’m not sure about the pairing of the hero and heroine in the next book, LORD OF DARKNESS but I have every confidence that Ms Hoyt will pull another winner out of the bag.” – quote from my review of THIEF OF SHADOWS

Well, what can I say except… This book is definitely another winner and I absolutely loved it! This unlikely pairing proved to be the perfect pairing!

What I loved most about this book was following Godric and Megs’ journey of healing and learning to love again. Ms Hoyt captured all the nuances of their changing relationship perfectly.

Their rather awkward (but amusing) first meeting in two years…

She swiftly pasted on a broad, guileless smile that might as well have shouted, I’m up to something! “Oh, hello.”
Hello? After two years’ absence? Hello?
“Ah … Margaret, is it?” Godric repressed a wince. Not that he was doing much better.
“Yes!” She beamed at him as if he were a senile old man who’d had a sudden spark of reason. “I’ve come to visit you.”
“Have you?” He sat a little straighter in the chair. “How … unexpected.”

Megs’ pathetic but endearing attempt at seducing her husband…

His crystal gray eyes were narrowed, his mouth flattened, and his nostrils flared just a bit. All in all, not an encouraging expression.
“Margaret,” he clipped out, using her full Christian name, “what are you doing?”
She winced. If he had to ask, her attempt at seduction must be truly lacking.

Godric’s surprising jealousy…

…her placid husband seemed to have acquired daggers for eyes— and they were aimed at Lord d’Arque. If looks could kill, Lord d’Arque would be a writhing, bloody mess on the earl’s pink marble floor.

Megs’ unsettling feelings…

She felt as if she couldn’t catch her breath. Couldn’t piece together the Godric she’d thought she knew and the living, breathing man before her.

Godric’s startling realization…

For his Meggie he would walk the fires of Hell.

and two people finally learning that love can be sweeter the second
time around…

But most of all he was aware of the woman, this woman, his woman, standing so proudly, waiting patiently for him, only him.

“I love you,” she said, speaking clearly so that there might be no confusion. “I love you utterly and completely.

Watching Godric and Megs finally letting go of their pasts and admitting their love for each other was both heartrending and heart-warming.

The secondary characters added extra depth to the story (I adored Great-Aunt Elvina and Her Grace) and the plight of the kidnapped girls and the mystery surrounding Roger’s death brought enough drama, danger and suspense to keep me turning the pages. But ultimately, for me,  this story belonged to Godric and Megs.

How I imagine Godric-

How I imagine Megs –

The series has lost none of its momentum and, once again, Elizabeth Hoyt exceeded all my expectations with this, captivating, emotional, heartwarming and suspenseful story.

VERDICT:   FANTASTIC! LOVED IT!

RATING:    5/5 STARS

SENSUALITY RATING:   HOT

Read March 2013

The Maiden Lane series so far (click on the book covers for more details):

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