Devil in My Bed

Three Lords and a Baby...

When Aidan de Quincy finds a precocious tot on the steps of his gentleman's club, he is sure he isn't the child's father...well, nearly sure. In order to find out, he needs to find the only woman he ever loved--the one who broke his heart!

Madeleine Chandler has a secret, but not the one Aidan thinks she does. Her past is about to catch up to her again and only Aidan can save her. All she has to do is tell one more tiny little lie...

The first book of Celeste Bradley's, The Runaway Brides. I picked up the third novel at the UBS not knowing that it was part of a series, so I quickly bought the other books. I need to read a series in sequence, otherwise it just does not work for me.

In Devil in My Bed we are introduced to Aidan, Colin, Madeleine and little Melody. Aidan, Colin, and Jack are members of Brown's, a gentlemen's club. Little Melody arrives at the doorstep of said club with a note saying that her father is a member, and through the process of elimination they will try to figure out who is her father.

I found the premise of the story to be very good. I enjoyed the characters, I really liked Aidan and Madeleine, enjoyed their story ans was rooting for them at from the start; but the scene stealer was Melody, she was a cute precocious kid, I'm a little surprised how well she spoke, but it's fiction.

Looking forward to the next book, Rogue in My Arms.

Devil in My Bed by Celeste Bradley (3.5/5) Historical Fiction; Published: St. Martin's Paperbacks (8/2009); Source: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 1, The Runaway Brides; Books 2011 (21);

The Darkest Hour

It's been one year since ex-Navy SEAL Ethan Kelly last saw his wife, Rachel, alive. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt over his failures as a husband, Ethan shuts himself off from everything and everyone.

His brothers have tried to bring Ethan into the KGI fold, tried to break through the barriers he's built around himself, but Ethan refuses to respond...until he receives an anonymous note claiming Rachel is alive.

To save her, Ethan will have to dodge bullets, cross a jungle and risk falling captive to a deadly drug cartel that threatens his own demise. And even if he succeeds, he'll have to force Rachel to recover memories she doesn't want t relive - the minute-by-minute terror of her darkest hour - for their love, and their lives, may depend on it.

After reading this book I have three questions.

Why has it taken me so long to read a book my Maya Banks? Honestly I cannot fathom the reason why it took me years...years, people!...to read Maya Banks. I have friends that rave about this author, but I kept on passing her by. But not any longer!

Where can I find myself a Kelly brother? What a group of yummy alpha-males. Num num. Not only are they gorgeous, military trained, they also have a kindness about them. In this book we're introduced to all the Kelly brothers, Sam, Garrett, Donovan, Ethan, Nathan and Joe. But the focus is on Ethan and his wife Rachel. I have to admit that my first glimpse of Ethan (drunk) was not a stellar introduction but it was an understandable condition. His pain and guilt were so deep that when he receives the note that Rachel is imprisoned, he changes...first he's angry with the bad joke and then something sparks, a what if. And then the story really begins for me. Being kept in captivity Rachel tries everything to remain sane, but her memory is starting the fade and the only thing that helps is the "medicine". I loved seeing Rachel and Ethan together, the love they have for each other is evident but it seemed there was something being held back (and find out the reason towards the end). It was a great romantic suspense story.

How long will I have to wait to get my hands on the next book? Not long I hope!

The Darkest Hour by Maya Banks (4/5) Romantic Suspense; Published: Berkley Sensation (9/2010); Source: Library; Series: # 1, KGI Novel; Books 2011 (20)

Suddenly One Summer

Jenna Davies flees to the close-knit community of Angel's Bay with a seven-year-old child, a dangerous secret, and a heart full of pain. She wants nothing more than to live a quiet life, but when she sees a teenager plunge off the pier, she doesn't hesitate to dive in after her. But saving the desperate girl's life thrusts Jenna into a spotlight she can ill afford. Suddenly everyone in town wants to know her story -- a story that could cost her life.

Reid Tanner was a tough reporter until a shattering incident changed everything. Now all of his instincts are on alert. Who is Jenna, and what is she hiding? He wants answers, but his quest for the truth could put them all in danger. They say love is a miracle -- but can it keep Jenna safe in his arms?

I'm not sure what exactly happened but I had a hard time getting into the story. It took me up until halfway through the book to really enjoy what I was reading. It felt like the author was introducing way too many characters in a short amount of time. I realize that this book is the introduction to Angel's Bay and the people that make it a great family oriented community, but it was a little too much.

Saying that, I did enjoy Jenna, Lexie and Reid's story. I just wished there was more of them, but I'm hoping on seeing these characters in the next book(s) of the series.

Suddenly One Summer by Barbara Freethy (3.5/5) General Fiction; Published: Pocket Star Books (2009); Source: Library; Series: # 1, Angel's Bay; Books 2011 (19)

The Snake, The Crocodile & The Dog

Amelia Peabody was unabashedly proud of her newest translation, a fragment of the ancient fairytale "The Doomed Prince". Later, she would wonder why no sense of foreboding struck her as she retold the story of the king's favorite son who had been warned that he would die from the snake, the crocodile, or the dog. Little did she realize, as she and her beloved husband sailed blissfully toward the pyramids of ancient Egypt, that those very beasts (and a cat as well) would be part of a deadly plot.

The expedition began so happily....Leaving their delightful, but catastrophically precocious, son, Ramses, back in England, Amelia hoped this romantic trip might rejuvenate her thirteen-year-old marriage and bring back the thrills that she feared were fading. She and her dear Emerson were returning to the remote desert site where they had first fallen in love, Amarna, the holy city of Akhenaton and his beautiful queen, Nefertiti. But their return would threaten not only their marriage, but their very lives with perils as chilling as a mummy'scurse.

An old enemy was determined to learn Amelia and Emerson's most closely guarded secret: the location of a legendary long-lost oasis and a race of people bedecked in gold. So cunning was his scheme that Amelia might overlook - until it was too late - the truth about the mysterious cat Anubis, the identity of the spy among their retinue, and the nature of the stunning blow that could rob her of all she held dear.

Reading The Snake, The Crocodile & The Dog by Elizabeth Peters was like visiting old friends. Those old friends that you don't visit often but catching up is always a treat. And this book was a definite treat.

Peabody and Emerson are back in Egypt, but this time without Ramses and the newest addition to their family Nefret. Peabody wants to rekindle the romance/love, but Emerson can't quite seem to figure that out on his own. They arrive at their destination and that's when the "accidents" happen and later the abduction. The "who dunit" process was very entertaining, I had my doubts on who the perpetrator was throughout the book and at the end I was wrong, but was pleasantly surprised with ending.

Although it took me longer than usual to read this book, it wasn't the books fault. I lie that solely on my children. Softball season has begun and a series of colds and fevers left me little time to read. But when I finally was able to sit and read it was truly enjoyable.

The Snake, The Crcodile & The Dog by Eliabeth Peters (4/5) Historical Mystery; Published: Warner Books (1992); Source: Library; Series: # 7, Peabody/Emerson; Books 2011 (18);

The Trouble with Mr Darcy

Is it even possible to have a perfect romance?

Sensual, happy, and steeped in all the luxuries of the lavish Regency period, Darcy and Elizabeth must still face the many challenges that every married couple confronts after the honeymoon is over. Just as the most intense issues of their marriage begin to arise, George Wickham returns to Hertforshire bent on creating trouble. Knowing Darcy as long as he has, Wickham knows just how to strike at his vulnerabilities. But Wickham is only a pawn for someone even more unscrupulous than he is - and much more powerful.

When everything Darcy cherishes most is thrown into deadly danger, and knowing that Wickham has nothing left to lose, Darcy must confront his enemy and his own demons at the same time...

I've been looking forward to reading this book since the release of the previous book of the series. You can say that my expectations on The Trouble with Mr Darcy to be high.

I'm not quite sure what to think of this book...I definitely found it different from the previous books of this series. Although I liked parts of it there were also others that could have been left out...but that's just my opinion.

*****SPOILER ALERT*****

I loved the way that the author dealt with postpartum depression. It's not only the mother that suffers but truly the family. I've been there and I know the feelings, and sometimes the lack of them that can turn your life upside down. For that I commend the author, she dealt with it very well. The anger and confusion were all there.

I enjoyed Kitty's romance with Artois. Found it to be very sweet and sensual. And it was also nice to see all the sisters together again for her wedding.

I found the Darcy's trip abroad to be a waste of time. I didn't care for the relatives and really couldn't understand what it had to do with the rest of the story. What really had me grumbling and complaining was the whole abduction/revenge came about. I understood the motive, but couldn't wrap my mind around it. But I guess that's the "crazy" Ormon for you. One good thing about it, was that Mrs Smythe is out. Woot! Never cared for her.

The Trouble with Mr Darcy by Sharon Lathan (3.5/5) Historical Fiction; Published: Sourcebooks Landmark (4/2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 5, Pride & Prejudice Continues; Books 2011 (17);

Simply Irresistible

Maddie Moore's whole life needs a makeover.

In one fell swoop, Maddie loses her boyfriend (her decision) and her job (so not her decision). But rather than drowning her sorrows in bags of potato chips, Maddie leaves L.A. to claim the inheritance left by her free-spirited mother-a ramshackle inn nestled in the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington.

Starting over won't be easy. Yet Maddie sees the potential for a new home and a new career-if only she can convince her two half-sisters to join her in the adventure. But convincing Tara and Chloe will be difficult because the inn needs a big makeover too.

The contractor Maddie hires is a tall, dark-haired hottie whose eyes-and mouth-are making it hard for her to remember that she's sworn off men. Even harder will be Maddie's struggles to overcome the past, though she's about to discover that there's no better place to call home than Lucky Harbor.

I cannot believe that I hadn't heard of this author until now! I inhaled this book in one sitting. I kik you not! I began this book early afternoon and I refused to put it down until the very last page and now I want more! More!

I loved the main characters, Maddie and Jax. Both in their own way wanting to start a new and reclaim their lives. To Maddie that meant re-opening her mother's inn with her sisters. For Jax, that meant leaving a productive life in Seattle to living a happy life in Lucky Habor.

It was wonderful book!

Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis (4.5/5) Contemporary Romance; Published: Grand Central (10/2010); New Author; Series: # 1, Lucky Harbor Novel; Books 2011 (17)

Dirty Rotten Tendrils

What Do You Call One Murdered Lawyer?

Spring is blooming in New Chapel, Indiana, but Abby's beloved small town has become a media circus. Singer Cody Verse has returned home after winning on America's Next Hit Single with his song "Code Blue". He has brought high-powered lawyer Ken "the Lip" Lipinski with him to fend off a lawsuit from his former songwriting partner.

Then the Lip is in need of a code blue himself when he's found dead from a suspicious overdose. Abby finds it hard to swallow the opposing counsel - and her old boss - Dave Hammond could be the killer. Now Abby and her hot boyfriend, Marco, must prune the list of suspects for the murder of a man who had more enemies than his client has fans...

I've been reading the Flower Shop Mystery series for years and in my honest opinion that hasn't been a bad book in the bunch. And I'm hoping that it will continue to be that way... Of course there is always the odd book that doesn't quit measure to the rest, but it is a very entertaining series.

And this book didn't disappoint. Abby is being her usual self, nosy and pertective of her loved ones; and Marco is trying to keep her out of trouble, the usual. Add the rest of the gang, and a few new characters and you have a very interesting story to tell. Usually I'm able to figure it out halfway through the book, but with this one I was stunned on who the murderer was.

Dirty Rotten Tendrils by Kate Collins (4/5) Contemporary Mystery; Published: Obsidian Mystery (10/2010); Series: # 10, Flower Shop Mystery; Books 2011 (16)

Holly Blues

China Bayles is fit to spit when her husband's troubled ex-wife, Sally, shows up at her herb shop, claiming to be broke with nowhere else to turn. China isn't sure if it's the goodness of her heart or the scent of Christmas wreaths, but she invites Sally to stay.

Then China starts receiving menacing calls from an "ex" of Sally's, who seems to have a connection to the murder of her parents nearly a decade ago. With her P.I. husband out of town, it's up to China to weed out the truth behind whatever it is Sally's running from before danger catches up to all of them....

Another nice installment to the Chine Bayles series. The book has the usual traits that I expect from the author: a warm welcome, good company, gossip with friends, a little tension here and there, a great whole dose of sleuthing by China, Ruby and McQuaid. While the previous book I found more emotional this one was entertaining to say the least. I even enjoyed the fact that Sally was around again. You need a little dose of crazy occasionally. I do have a concern though. Is it just me or are the China books getting shorter?

Holly Blues by Susan Wittig Albert (3/5) Mystery: Holiday; Published: Berkley Hardcover (4/2010); Series: # 19, China Bayles; Books 2011 (15);

A Glimpse of Evil

Professional psychic Abigail Cooper has received a cold welcome from some prickly investigators at the FBI. But that won't stop her from following her intuition...even if it brings her eye to eye with acts of true evil.

Some Cold Cases Are Better Left Cold...

As the FBI's newest civilian profiler, Abby Cooper has a tough job ahead of her. Not only does she have to use her powers of intuition to help solve a backlog of the bureau's cold cases, but she must also win over a frosty group of seasoned investigators and teach them how to develop their own perceptive abilities.

If it weren't challenging enough, Abby's sure that several of the cold cases are connected, but she's the only that is convinced. Things go from bad to worse when Abby and another agent are suspended for not following protocol, leaving Abby and her old partner, Candice, to investigate on their own. To discover how these pieces fit together, Abby will have to call on every intuitive bone in her body...before she's the one put on ice.

In this book we find Abby and Dutch working together in a new office in Austin. Interestingly enough it seems that the whole "crew" is relocating to Austin as well...which I find both strange and comforting in a way. Getting back to Dutch and Abby they along with other investigators are working cold cases. Every now and then Abby strikes gold, but there are a couple of cases that just don't sit well with Abby, and she has a strong feeling that they are connected.

Victoria Laurie's Psychic Eye series is one of those series that I cannot get enough of, the more I read the more I want. Case in point, A Glimpse of Evil, just finished reading it and now I want more....but it will have to wait. Good thing the next book is due out in July, so the wait won't be too bad. I hope...

A Glimpse of Evil by Victoria Laurie (4/5) Paranormal Mystery: Psychic; Published: Obsidian Maystery (7/2010); Series: # 8, Psychic Eye Mystery; Books 2011 (14)

Shoot to Thrill

The Monkeewrench crew returns in a stunning new thriller. It's ighty-five degrees in the shade when Minneapolis detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth pull nto the MPD parking garage. They're driving a tricked-out Caddy, repossessed from a low-level drg dealer. It's not Beemer or a Mercedes, but it's got GPS, air-conditioning, and power seats with more positions than the Kama Sutra.

Things are heating up inside the station-house, too. The bomb squad's off to investigate another suspicious package at the mall, and kids are beating the crap out of one another and posting it on YouTube. And before Magozzi and Rolseth can wish for a straight-on homicide, the call comes in: a floater. Soon they're humping it along a derelict stretch of the Mississippi River, beyond the green places where families picnic and admire the views. They can see her - she looks like a bride in her white formal gown - facedown, dead in the water. And so it begins.

Across town, Grace McBride's Monkeewrench crew - the computer geeks who, after making a fortune on games, are now helping the cops with anticrime software - have been recruited by the FBI to investigate a series of murder videos posted on the Web. It's not long before Magozzi, Rolseth, and Monkeewrench discover the frightening link between the unlucky bride and the latest, most horrific use of the Internet to date. Using their skills to scour the Net in search of the perpetrator, the team must race against the clock to stop a killer in his tracks.

I'm not really sure what to think about this book. I enjoyed it, but it wasn't as good as the previous books of the series. I didn't find it as gripping or sitting at the edge of my seat reading. The genre that the writing team of P.J. Tracy promotes is thrillers but I cannot consider Shoot to Thrill a thriller it's more like a suspense read. Because in my mind there is a difference. Or maybe it's just me.

And then they had to "screw up" some of the characters dynamics and relationships. I understand that sometimes "relationships" change or end, but come on... I wasn't ready for this one. Why screw-up something so right? Or like I mention above, maybe it's just me.

I'm curious on where this series is heading. So rest assured I won't stop reading it, I'll just complain more about it. Grrr!

Shoot to Thrill by P.J. Tracy (3/5) Mystery Thriller; Published: G.P. Putnam's Sons (2010); Series: # 5, Monkeewrench; Books 2011 (13)

The Search

To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life-a quaint house on an island off Seattle's coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescues. Not to mention her three intensely loyal Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare...

Several years ago, Fiona was the only survivor of the Red Scarf serial killer, who shot and killed Fiona's cop fiancé and his K-9 partner.

On Orcas Island, Fiona found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. But all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He's the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon's house, and he's at his wit's end.

To Fiona, Jaws is nothing she can't handle. Simon, however, is another matter. A newcomer to Orcas, he's a rugged and in-tensely private artist, known for the exquisite furniture he creates from wood. Simon never wanted a puppy-and he most definitely doesn't want a woman. Besides, the lanky redhead is not his type. But tell that to his hormones.

As Fiona embarks on training Jaws, and Simon begins to appreciate both dog and trainer, the past tears back into Fiona's life. A copycat killer has emerged out of the shadows, a man whose bloodlust has been channeled by a master with one motive: to reclaim the woman who slipped out of his hands...

Having finished reading The Search by Nora Roberts I couldn't resist doing my happy dance. After reading her last couple of romantic suspense I didn't have high expectations on this one. But boy was I ever surprised! I loved it!

The setting was spectacular. There's something about the Pacific Northwest that has an appealing quality for me. Throw in a island, a few dogs and someone that is handy with his hands and I'm a goner. Ok, the heroine, Fiona wasn't bad either. Courageous, outspoken and independent. What's not to love? Fiona and Simon's relationship was unique, it was a nice change to "the normal" relationship portrayal that I've been reading lately. But the scene stealer's were the dogs, they were wonderful and entertaining. lol

Even the killer, excuse me... killers were both very interesting in a creepy sort of way. Their reasoning and thought process had me gripping the sides of the couch and at times even taking brakes from reading.

The Search by Nora Roberts (4.5/5) Romantic Suspense; Published: Putnam Adult (7/2010); Books 2011 (12);

The Lady Most Likely...

Hugh Dunne, the Earl of Briarly, needs a wife, so his sister hands him a list of delectable damsels and promises to invite them— and a few other gentlemen—to her country house for what is sure to be the event of the season.

Hugh will have time to woo whichever lady he most desires . . . Unless someone else snatches her first.

The invitation list includes:

The horse-mad but irresistibly handsome Earl of Briarly
The always outspoken Miss Katherine Peyton
The dashing war hero Captain Neill Oakes
The impossibly beautiful (and painfully shy) Miss Gwendolyn Passmore
The terribly eligible new Earl of Charters
The widowed Lady Georgina Sorrell (who has no plans to marry, ever)

And your hostess, Lady Carolyn Finchley, an irrepressible matchmaker who plans to find the lady most likely . . . to capture her brother’s untamed heart.

Three authors that I enjoy: I'm a huge fan of Julia Quinn's, Eloisa James has been a hit or miss author for a while now and Connie Brockway I used to read religiously but stopped a few ago. So picking this book up wasn't a hardship, but I wasn't expecting too much out of it.

And I'm glad that my expectations were low, because although the story in "three parts" was good it wasn't a five star read. I really enjoyed the first part of the three part novel, but halfway through it started to bore me. I found it very predictable. And I admit that I only skimmed through the last part of the book. I just didn't want to bother with it. I'm so happy that I took it out of the library instead of buying it.

The Lady Most Likely... by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Connie Brockway (2.5/5) Historical Fiction; Published: Avon (1/2011); Books 2011 (11);

The Best Laid Plans

Here’s the set up: A burnt-out politcal aide quits just before an election — but is forced to run a hopeless campaign on the way out. He makes a deal with a crusty old Scot, Angus McLintock — an engineering professor who will do anything, anything, to avoid teaching English to engineers — to let his name stand in the election. No need to campaign, certain to lose, and so on.

Then a great scandal blows away his opponent, and to their horror, Angus is elected. He decides to see what good an honest M.P. who doesn’t care about being re-elected can do in Parliament. The results are hilarious — and with chess, a hovercraft, and the love of a good woman thrown in, this very funny book has something for everyone.

I had several reasons on choosing this book. Canadian author, a satiracal story around Canadian politics and it was the winner of Canada Reads 2011. But the main reason is that I'm far behind in my Canadian Book Challenge and what I mean by far behind is that I only read one book so far.

I'm glad that I picked this book up. I truly enjoyed reading it. I found the setting, Ottawa inviting just as usual, although I could deal without the bitter cold of winter, having lived there for two years. It's a great feeling reading a book and knowing exactly where the author is describing. I loved the characters, Daniel, Angus, Pete1, Pete2, but my favorite was Muriel. Spanky and straight forward type of woman.

My only complaint was that I was expecting a more humorous book and don't get wrong there was alot to laugh at, but I didn't find it to be a laugh out loud type of book.

I'm looking forward on reading the author's next book, The High Road.

The Best Laid Plans by Terry Fallis (4/5) Fiction: Satire; Published: McClelland & Stewart (2007); The Stephen Leacock Award for Humour; 2011 Canada Reads Winner; New Author; Canada Reads; Canadian Book Challenge 4 (2); Books 2011 (10);

Dark Road to Darjeeling

After eight idyllic months in the Mediterranean, Lady Julia Grey and her detective husband are ready to put their investigative talents to work once more. At the urging of Julia's eccentric family, they hurry to India to aid an old friend, the newly widowed Jane Cavendish. Living on the Cavendish tea plantation with the remnants of her husband's family, Jane is consumed with the impending birth of her child—and with discovering the truth about her husband's death. Was he murdered for his estate? And if he was, could Jane and her unborn child be next?

Amid the lush foothills of the Himalayas, dark deeds are buried and malicious thoughts flourish. The Brisbanes uncover secrets and scandal, illicit affairs and twisted legacies. In this remote and exotic place, exploration is perilous and discovery, deadly. The danger is palpable and, if they are not careful, Julia and Nicholas will not live to celebrate their first anniversary.

I've been waiting "patiently" until the ebook price lowered, but I broke down and bought it. And I'm happy to say that it was worth the money.

It was one of those books that you start and you do not want to stop. It was a definite page turner and the setting of the story was breathtaking. Plus my favorite characters were a fine form, Julia her usual curios self, Brisbane is still dark and mysterious, Plum and Portia were there as well. And there were a couple of old "friends" in this book as well. The characters that are introduced in this story, range from the lowest of servants to the mystical intrigues of a Raja. Not only all that but there were also two peacocks that had their own issues. The dialogue did not disappoint, I love the banter goes back and forth with the siblings. And Brisbane and Julia's arguments are the same as previous books.

The mystery, or rather, mysteries were very interesting and I was totally stumped on who the culprit was, and not mention surprised as well. There's a few answers to questions raised in previous books but at the same time more questions have come to mind. I wonder how long I have to wait the next book?

Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn (4.5/5) Historical Mystery; Published: Mira (10/2010); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 4, Lady Julia; Books 2011 (9);

When Beauty Tamed The Beast

Miss Linnet Berry Thrynne is a Beauty . . . Naturally, she's betrothed to a Beast.

Piers Yelverton, Earl of Marchant, lives in a castle in Wales where, it is rumored, his bad temper flays everyone he crosses. And rumor also has it that a wound has left the earl immune to the charms of any woman.

Linnet is not just any woman.

She is more than merely lovely: her wit and charm brought a prince to his knees. She estimates the earl will fall madly in love—in just two weeks.

Yet Linnet has no idea of the danger posed to her own heart by a man who may never love her in return.

If she decides to be very wicked indeed . . . what price will she pay for taming his wild heart?

Once upon a time there was a woman who used to buy all of Eloisa James' books. But after a while she grew tired of being disappointed so she stopped spending money on that author. Until she read the above blurb and she could not resist spending money of that e-book.

Linnet is a beauty. A beauty surrounded by scandal. Her family has decided that to restore the family's good name she needs to marry quickly. And the answer to their prayers is Piers Yelverton. Piers Yelverton, Earl of Marchant is a talented physician who has a penchant for being rude, blunt and is also disabled. Their initial rejection of each other is slowly changed to a comfortable friendship and along the way the sparks fly. But when a terrible disease threatens them, will they be able to leave their fears and give in to hope.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I love the premise of the story. I love the beauty and the beast theme but to be frank I found the beauty tedious at times. I loved Piers, strong, rude, angry but beneath all that anger was a beautiful heart. Linnet had promised, feisty and outspoken at times she became an idiot by the end of the book. Why?! Why?! Why?! She could have been great but then she had to become a rambling idiot. Grr....

I hate it when I build up something in my mind and then I find it lacking. And it happened again with this book. Will I ever learn? Probably not. Don't get me wrong I didn't hate the book. I enjoyed it, it just wasn't up to "my" Eloisa James' standards (her earlier books).

What about you? Do you have an author that you love but lately the books have been less than stellar?

When Beauty Tamed The Beast by Eloisa James (3/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Books 2011 (8);

My One and Only

I discovered Kristan Higgins last year and she has quickly become one of my favorite authors. The author has an ability to bring a love story to life that just draws me in, and it doesn't let go until the very last page.

Just when she thought she had life and love all figured out…

Divorce attorney Harper James can’t catch a break. Bad enough that she runs into her ex-hubby, Nick, at her sister’s destination wedding, but now, by a cruel twist of fate, she’s being forced to make a cross-country road trip with him. And her almost-fiancé back at home is not likely to be sympathetic.

Harper can’t help that Nick has come blazing back into her life in all of his frustratingly appealing, gorgeous architect glory. But in Nick’s eyes, Harper’s always been the one. If they can only get it right this time, forever might be waiting—just around the bend.

Harper James is an intelligent, independent, beautiful and career oriented woman. But she wants more, she's decided that she wants to get married and have family, and she has the perfect candidate in mind, her eye-candy boyfriend Dennis Costello. The problem is that Dennis doesn't know about the plans yet. Harper's plans are interrupted when she gets a call from her sister, announcing that she's marrying Harper's ex-brother-in-law. Nick Lowery is a successful architect who still has strong feelings for Harper, those feelings range from anger to love. But can a road trip bring closure or re-ignite those feelings that are still raw.

To say that I loved this book is an understatement. The story has everything: a wonderful setting, awesome characters, a wonderful plot and killer dialogue.
The setting went from picturesque Martha's Vineyard to the glorious mountains of Montana and everything in between and a stint in Manhattan. Both main characters, Harper and Nick were great to get to know, their individual stories were real and touching. Harper has issues with abandonment, her mom left her when she was a young teen. Nick also has his own family issues, his parents divorced when he was young and he never had a close relationship with his father. You can sense that there's deep love between them both and sparks definitely fly. The secondary characters are quirky and funny. Which leads me to the dialogue, it was fast, funny and the banter between Harper and Nick was simply amazing.

This book had me laughing out loud and also crying. And if you're anything like me, when a book can make do that, it's a keeper. I highly recommend My One and Only!

You can find the book in stores this coming March 29! Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read the e-ARC!

My One and Only by Kristan Higgins (5/5) Contemporary Romance; Published: Harlequin/Mira (3/2011); ARC Format: Ebook for Adobe Reader; Books 2011 (7)

None But You

Eight years ago, when he had nothing but his future to offer, Frederick Wentworth fell in love with Anne Elliot, the gentle daughter of a haughty, supercilious baronet. Sir Walter Elliot refused to countenance a marriage and Anne's godmother, Lady Russell, strongly advised Anne against him. Persuaded by those nearest to her, Anne had given him up and he had taken his broken heart to sea. When Jane Austen's Persuasion opens in the year 1814, Frederick Wentworth, now a famous and wealthy captain in His Majesty's Navy, finds himself back in England and, as fate would have it, residing as a guest in Anne's former home. Now, it is the baronet who is in financial difficulties, and Anne exists only at her family's beck and call. For eight long years, Frederick had steeled his heart against her. Should he allow Anne into his heart again, or should he look for love with younger, prettier woman in the neighbourhood who regard him as a hero? The mature sweetness of Jane Austen's Persuasion is brought to life in Wytherngate Press's, None But You, the first in the two-volume series, Frederick Wentworth, Captain, by Susan Kaye.

I guess the obsession is spreading to a different Jane Austen novel, Persuasion. I didn't help that I recently watched the movie version of it. I love Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth. And I simply couldn't resist reading this book, especially when I found out that it was in Captain Wentworth's perspective.

And like the previous book, I read this one very quickly as well. Surprising. I loved the way it started and I admit I had problems following it whenever the author went back and forth regarding Anne and Frederick's relationship. I loved that there was more information on Wentworth's career and gave me an idea on what a sailor had to deal with during those troubling times.

With all this going on, it felt a little strange that I didn't see as much as I wanted of Anne. Which reminded me on how much I truly love her character.

And when it was getting juicier, it stops. It was one of those moments when I just want to yell..."Come on, not now!".

I have to get the next volume. Which I will soon enough.

None But You by Susan Kaye (4.5/5) Historical Fiction; Re-telling of Jane Austen's Persuasion; New Author; Published: Wytherngate Press (2007); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 1, Frederick Wentworth, Captain; Books 2011 (6);

The Perfect Bride for Mr. Darcy

And so the obsession continues... This is the first one of the new year. For you that don't know me well, I'm a P&P fanatic and I absolutely love the numerous re-tellings of this classic love story. And I found a new...The Perfect Bride for Mr. Darcy by Mary Lydon Simonsen.

If the two of them weren't so stubborn...

It's obvious to Georgiana Darcy that the lovely Elizabeth Bennet is her brother's perfect match, but Darcy's pigheadedness and Elizabeth's wounded pride are going to keep them both from the loves of their lives.

Georgiana can't let that happen, so she readily agrees to help her accommodating cousin, Anne de Bourgh, do everything within their power to assure her beloved brother's happiness.

But the path of matchmaking never runs smoothly...

Oh my goodness! I read this book in a weekend. I cannot remember the last time I did that. Mind you it was a busy weekend, birthday parties, play dates, shopping and bowling. But the beauty of having a Kindle is that it's small enough (and light) to carry along with me. I read in between.

I was hooked right from the beginning. I found the that it was written in a way that was easy to follow. It actually like a sort of a companion to the original text. It had lots of fillers which I don't usually like but with this novel I loved everything single bit of it. And I'm not ashamed to admit it.

I loved that Anne de Bourgh and Georgiana had a more prominent role in the dealings of Darcy and Elizabeth. There was also other new characters introduced which was a added surprise. But Darcy and Elizabeth are the scene steelers, their banter was amazing and you could sense their mutual attraction. I just wished there was more.

The Perfect Bride for Mr. Darcy by Mary Lyndon Simonsen (4.5/5) Historical Fiction; P&P; Published: Sourcebooks Landmark (January 1, 2011); New Author; Books 2011 (5)

Immortal Warrior

He came to England in search of treasure. Two hundred years later, he’s found her...

Ivar Graycloak is a brave warrior, a man known for his strength and integrity. He is also a man with a terrible secret. Long ago he was part of a Viking crew cursed by an evil sorceress to live for eternity as were-creatures. An eagle by day and a man by night, Ivar has lived a solitary existence for over two centuries. Then the king orders him to marry.

Lady Alaida is everything a man could want in a bride—intelligent, spirited, and beautiful--and their wedding night is a balm to Ivar's lonely spirit. Then a seer brings him word of a dark vision, one that makes Ivar vow to stay away from his lovely wife forever. But now that Ivar has sampled Alaida’s passion, her humor and warmth, he is enthralled. His traitorous body—his very heart—longs for that which he can never possess.

Lady Alaida may surprise him yet, though, for she has a power of her own—a power that will either destroy everything they hold dear or ultimately set them free…

Hello, I'm Leya, and I'm a sucker for cursed themed stories. Yes, I'm happy and (at times) proud of that. My pocket book, or (really) credit card aren't though. I came across this series by blog hopping. I read a review of the latest book of the series somewhere - bad me - I cannot remember where though, but anyway, I thank you!

The curse itself I found to be very interesting, and that the powerful sorceress cursed the invading Vikings was different. Different, to me. I don't think I read any recent books with that premise. Loved it!

Right from the start I was swept into the medieval paranormal world. And enjoyed it very much. Ivo, is a wonderful hero, proud, strong and just. Not to mention sexy. Just one little problem, he turns into an eagle at sunrise and turns back to human form at sunset. Alaida, the heroine, is a strong willed woman, who doesn't have issues speaking her mind. She is instantly attracted to Ivo even though she can't understand the pull. She cannot understand why Ivo is so fond of hunting, and repeatedly questions him on where he goes. I found the dialogue wonderful and very witty. It had me laughing out loud several times. And the sensuality between the hero and heroine is very satisfying.

Like I said before I truly enjoyed the story, but was a little disappointed at the end. I wanted just a little more. Now, I cannot say that it was the author's finishing touches that didn't do it for me, but.... I just wanted more!

But I guess I'll just have to get my hands on the next book, Immortal Outlaw.

Immortal Warrior by Lisa Hendrix (4/5) Historical Romance: Paranormal Medieval; Published: Berkley (2008); Format: Ebook for Kindle; New Author; Series: # 1, Immortal Brotherhood; Books 2011 (4);

TBR Challenge: Dancing in the Moonlight

Lieutenant Magdalena Cruz had come home…And though all she wanted was to be alone, infuriatingly handsome Dr. Jake Dalton—of the enemy Daltons—wouldn't cooperate. And she needed him to, because the walls around her heart were dangerously close to crumbling every time he came near.…

Jake had spent most of his life trying to get closer to Maggie, with little to show for it. But she was the woman he'd always wanted, and no injury in the world could change that. Now if only he could convince her that the woman who stood before him was beautiful, desirable, whole…and meant to be his.…

Dancing in the Moonlight has been in my TBR pit for at least two years. I don't exactly remember when I bought but it came from my local UBS store.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed it, thought the plot was good, liked the characters, especially the hero...but the heroine, Maggie, got on my nerves at times. I found her strong and independent, but her feelings towards the Dalton family at times was ridiculous. And enough with the whining, please. I don't mind the occasional complaint, but come on now, yes, they did a great injustice to your family, move on already! Argh!

With that off my chest...I feel better. Ok, overall it wasn't a bad, far from it. It was a great story for a cold winter afternoon. You know type, cuddling in front of the fireplace and enjoying a nice book.

Dancing in the Moonlight by Raeanne Thayne (2.5/5) Category Contemporary Romance; Silhouette Special Edition (2006); TBR Challenge (1); Books 2011 (3)