One Good Earl Deserves a Lover

Lady Philippa Marbury is odd. The bespectacled, brilliant fourth daughter of the Marquess of Needham and Dolby cares more for books than balls, flora than fashion and science than the season. Nearly engaged to Lord Castleton, Pippa wants to explore the scandalous parts of London she's never seen before marriage. And she knows just who to ask: the tall, charming, quick-witted bookkeeper of The Fallen Angel, London's most notorious and coveted gaming hell, known only as Cross. 
Like any good scientist, Pippa's done her research and Cross's reputation makes him perfect for her scheme. She wants science without emotion—the experience of ruination without the repercussions of ruination. And who better to provide her with the experience than this legendary man? But when this odd, unexpected female propositions Cross, it's more than tempting . . . and it will take everything he has to resist following his instincts—and giving the lady precisely what she wants.

I've been not so patiently waiting for this book since I read the first book of Sarah MacLean's The Rules of Scoundrels series, A Rogue by Any Other Name. I enjoyed the first book, a lot. And my expectations for the second book were very high.  And I'm very happy to say that my expectations were met and exceeded.  I loved this book! 

Both the main characters, Pippa and Cross, were wonderful.  Pippa is what people think as odd, she is more interested in botany and anatomy than social graces; Cross is self exiled from society because of an accident he believes that he caused, wants no part of the Ton, he also has a protective streak which is very endearing.   When Pippa approaches him to help with her research, he refuses, but he cannot get her out of his mind. He finds Pippa a breathe of fresh air, and ever so tempting.

The steam level in this book is out of this world! Their romance is sizzling, they definitely do not lack chemistry. Hot, hot and hot...

“I am going to ruin you, Pippa. I shall show you pleasure you’ve never known, the kind you’ve never dreamed. Over and over and over until you beg me never to stop.”

See what I mean?

The next book, Temple's story (squee moment!) is coming out in late August, No Good Duke Goes Unpunished.  

One Good Earl Deserves a Lover by Sarah MacLean (5/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (1/2013); Series: # 2, The Rules of Scoundrels; Format: Ebook for Kindle; New Release 2013 (1); Favorite Reads 2013; Books 2013 (15); 

One Thread Pulled

When the wealthy and handsome Fitzwilliam Darcy encounters the beautiful and lively Elizabeth Bennet at a small country ball, he loudly refuses to dance with her, declaring her to be merely tolerable. Fortunately for Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth has walked away and does not overhear his insult, thus snagging the thread that would have sealed her prejudice against the prideful stranger. 
Unexpectedly, circumstances thrust Elizabeth into the same household as Mr. Darcy, and her proximity unwittingly proves tempting, as her tantalizing wit and playfulness evoke desires that threaten to unravel his resolve against her.

I'm always on the lookout for variations on Pride and Prejudice, and this book sounded promising when I was shopping around on Amazon last summer, I've had One Thread Pulled by Diana J. Oaks on my Kindle's TBR shelf since then. I tend to read them as soon as I get them, but some titles get forgotten, and for some reason this one was one of them.  I guess I needed a reason to read it and Pride & Prejudice Bicentenary Challenge was as good a reason as any to read it...finally.

I really enjoyed this adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.  It felt like that the author tried to stay true to the original with the sequence of events but making them different without making it feel far fetched. 

The characters were written as what I would expect them to be.  I loved the way that Darcy and Elizabeth developed a somewhat strong friendship before he declared himself to her.  I loved the way that both were struggling with their feelings and having anything they could speak to.  I loved seeing that Mary had a stronger presence in this book, I always felt like she was the forgotten daughter, that she needed a chance to shine, she bloomed and had her chance to shine.  I also enjoyed Caroline's obsession with Darcy, wanting to make him jealous and he was completely oblivious to what was going on.

The story moved well, there didn't seem to be any staled moments where I wanted to rush through.  My only complaint was that the ending felt rushed and incomplete.  I wonder if there will be a sequel?  Because it was left open by the author.

One Thread Pulled by Diana J. Oaks (4.5/5) Historical  Romance; P&P adaptation; Published: CreateSpace (8/2012); New Author; Format: Ebook for Kindle; Pride and Prejudice Bicentenary Challenge (2); Books 2013 (11);

The Lady Most Willing...

During their annual Christmas pilgrimage to Scotland to visit their aged uncle in his decrepit castle, the Comte de Rocheforte and his cousin, Earl of Oakley, are presented with unique gifts: their uncle has raided an English lord's Christmas party and kidnapped four lovely would-be brides for his heirs to choose from ...as well as one very angry duke, Lord Bretton. As snow isolates the castle, and as hours grow into days, the most honourable intentions give away to temptations as surprising as they are irresistible.

Funny thing, I placed a hold on this book, and somehow I forgot about doing so.  I then bought the ebook, and forgot about that as well.  I only found out about my blunder this morning when checking for my Kindle shelves.  Oh my goodness...I cannot believe I did that.

I enjoyed the book, it was a quick read and it had alot of the elements that I expect from Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Connie Brockway. It had the humor, the quirky banter between characters, and little twists and turns to the story that moving well.  I'm curious about which sections the authors wrote.  I think I can tell the difference, considering how often I read these authors, but I would love a definite answer.  I believe my favorite love story was the first one, Catriona and Bretton's story. They're both strong willed people and they're attracted to each other, they just need to face their feelings.

The Lady Most Willing...by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Connie Brockway (3/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (12/2012); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Books 2013 (10) 

The Soldier

Taken from author's site:

Colonel Devlin St. Just’s torn spirit calls to Emmaline Farnum, and in good conscience she cannot refuse his offer to provide a home for the little girl so dear to Emmie’s heart. As the adults forge a path to a better life for young Winnie, Emmie finds herself unable to resist the allure of a deeper attraction to Devlin. But resist she must, because decisions made years in her past are forcing her inexorably away from Devlin’s side.

After the previous book, I needed a pick me up, and this book was it.  I read the first book of this series just last week, and I enjoyed it so much I had to read the second book as soon as possible. My expectations were high...  I wasn't disappointed.

Devlin has a great sense of responsibility, and when the illegitimate daughter of the previous estate owner shows up, he feels obligated to take care of her and of her caregiver, Emmaline. He soon develops feeling for the little girl and the attraction to Emmaline is getting harder to ignore.  Emmie is independent and very strong willed but when it comes to Winnie, she'll do just about anything.  So when St. Just offers to take care of Winnie, she agrees but with some conditions of her own.

I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as the previous, but I did.  I found that this book the story flowed better, and even though I had my doubts about Emmie and Winnie's relationship, I loved the way the author introduced it.  It was beautifully done.

The series just keeps on getting better... Cannot wait to get my hands on the third book, The Virtuoso.

The Soldier by Grace Burrowes (4.5/5) Historical Romance; Published: Sourcebooks Casablanca (6/2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 2, Windham; Series: # 2, The Duke's Obssession; Keeper Shelf; Books 2013 (7); 

A Proper Companion

Anyone can arrange a marriage-but only the heavens can decree true love! 
Her grandson, the Earl of Bradleigh, had just announced his engagement to a thoroughly unlikeable chit -- and Lady Bradleigh was determined to do something about it. Why, just about anyone would make a more suitable match...even her own paid companion, Emily Townsend! But if her dear, practical-minded Robert were to back out of the betrothal, the tongues of the ton would never stop wagging... 
At the very least, the dowager decides, she will extract a promise from her grandson to find Emily a husband. But when the handsome, rakish earl comes to know the charms of Emily Townsend, he suddenly regrets his hasty engagement-and is sorely tempted to win her hand for himself.

It's been years since I last read a book by Candice Hern.  I remember loving her books, but I can't remember why I stopped reading her.  I'm a huge fan of romances set during the Regency period, and I have a soft spot for the traditional Regency that I read so long ago, I couldn't resist signing up for The Regency Romance Reading Challenge that is being hosted by Austenprose. 

It seems like I'm on a roll, another book that kept me up at night. I began reading A Proper Companion shortly before going to bed, but I couldn't put it down.  I was transported back to a time where the upper crust of society felt the need to meddle in their children and grandchildren's lives.  I enjoyed all of it, Emily and Robert, started off as friends, they soon developed stronger feeling, but Robert being a gentleman could not give or promise anything more than friendship to Emily. I loved the way that he struggled with his feelings for Emily and the way she did as well for Robert, they both knew that it wasn't proper, but the feelings were still there. Even though I enjoyed Robert and Emily, the scene stealer of the book was the Dowager Duchess, she was a force of a nature, full of life and love for the people that mattered the most to her.

A Proper Companion by Candice Hern (4/5) Historical - Regency Romance; Published: Jove (1995); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 1, Regency Rakes; Regency Romance Reading Challenge (1); Keeper Shelf; Books 2013 (5);

The Heir

AN EARL WHO CAN'T BE BRIBED
Gayle Windham, Earl of Westhaven, is the first legitimate son and heir to the Duke of Moreland. To escape his father's inexorable pressure to marry, he decides to spend the summer at his townhouse in London, where he finds himself intrigued by the secretive ways of his beautiful housekeeper... 
A LADY WHO CAN'T BE PROTECTED... 
Anna Seaton is a beautiful, talented, educated woman, which is why it is so puzzling to Gayle Windham that she works as his housekeeper. As the two draw closer and begin to lose their hearts to each other, Anna's secrets threaten to bring the earl's orderly life crashing down - and he doesn't know how he's going to protect her from the fallout...

I would like to begin by thanking Ana from Aneca's World for introducing me to this author.  It's been quite a while since I read a historical romance that has captured me as this has.  So thank you Ana, I believe I have found a new must read author.

This book should also have a disclaimer on its cover, one sitting read, reader beware you may lose sleep.  Which I did, but I'm not complaining because it was a very good read.  I loved the setting, the time period, the characters and the story itself wasn't too shabby either.  I found that Anna and Windham suited each other very well, she caring and headstrong and Windham is a no-nonsense type of gentleman who adores his large family, even the meddling members of said family.  I admit at the beginning I thought it a stretch that they would become involved, master and employee, but the author had a way in drawing me in and keeping interested in the book.  I'm looking forward on reading more of her books.

The Heir by Grace Burrowes (4.5/5) Historical Romance; Published: Sourcebooks Casablanca (2010); Format: Ebook for Kindle; New Author; Series: # 1, Windham; Favorite Reads 2013; Historical Fiction Reading Challenge 2013 (3); Keeper Shelf; Books 2013 (4);

A Rogue By Any Other Name

What a scoundrel wants, a scoundrel gets . . . A decade ago, the Marquess of Bourne was cast from society with nothing but his title. Now a partner in London’s most exclusive gaming hell, the cold, ruthless Bourne will do whatever it takes to regain his inheritance—including marrying perfect, proper Lady Penelope Marbury. A broken engagement and years of disappointing courtships have left Penelope with little interest in a quiet, comfortable marriage, and a longing for something more. How lucky that her new husband has access to such unexplored pleasures. Bourne may be a prince of London’s underworld, but he vows to keep Penelope untouched by its wickedness—a challenge indeed as the lady discovers her own desires, and her willingness to wager anything for them . . . even her heart.

I was having mixed feeling about reading this book, or rather buying it, to be perfectly honest.  Anyway, I broke down and bought the book in ebook format for my Kindle. You see, I absolutely adored the Sarah MacLean's first two books of her Love By Numbers series, but unfortunately the third and final one was a disappointment in my opinion it lacked everything that the previous had. You can find my thoughts Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake here. My thoughts on Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord are here. My thoughts on Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke's Heart are here.


A Rogue By Any Other Name is the first book of a quartet series, called The Rules of Scoundrels. 


It's Bourne and Penelope's story.  They were child friends and neighbors.  Penelope had always a soft spot for Bourne, and she admired and cared for him deeply, but throughout the years it became more one-sided in Penelope's mind.  She missed her friend and childhood companion.  Bourne had a hard time after his parents death, he lost all his money and property to someone he thought of as a friend in a game of cards.  Since then he vowed revenge, and he now he comes back to retrieve what was once his and he has no problems using Penelope is his plan.


Both Penelope and Bourne have their demons.  Bourne's need to retrieve his inheritance and need for revenge consumes him, he cannot forgive the friends he blames nor can he forgive himself. Penelope lives with the shame of being set aside by a her intended, the snob of book 3 of Love By Numbers. She's perfectly content on living her life as a spinster, but she feels like she owes her parents and sisters more than that. When Bourne insists on getting married, she is hesitant but hopeful that the boy she once knew is still in the bitter man.


I didn't want to like Bourne right away, but there's was something about him that made me do so.  He was so angry and disappointed in himself that he wanted to hurt those he felt responsible for his mistake. And he was willing to hurt and use someone that he once cared for, but soon you saw that his exterior was cracking with Penelope's help.  Their relationship didn't start right but it slowly came to be a wonderful love story.


I'm hoping that the next book will be as good as this one.


A Rogue By Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean (4.5/5) Historical Fiction; Published: Avon (2/2012); Series: # 1, The Rules of Scoundrels; New Release: Format: Ebook; Books 2012 (37);  

Treachery in Death

Detective Eve Dallas and her partner, Peabody, are following up on a senseless crime-an elderly grocery owner killed by three stoned punks for nothing more than kicks and snacks. This is Peabody's first case as primary detective-good thing she learned from the master. 
But Peabody soon stumbles upon a trickier situation. After a hard workout, she's all alone in the locker room when the gym door clatters open; and-while hiding inside a shower stall trying not to make a sound-she overhears two fellow officers, Garnet and Oberman, arguing. It doesn't take long to realize they're both crooked-guilty not just of corruption but of murder. Now Peabody, Eve, and Eve's husband, Roarke, are trying to get the hard evidence they need to bring the dirty cops down-knowing all the while that the two are willing to kill to keep their secret.

I have had this book, in ebook format, in my possession since it was published, but as usual didn't get around to reading it...until now.  You can't go wrong with a J.D. Robb book, you have a great story, great characters, and great suspense and of course there's Roarke.


I couldn't put this book down.  I loved that the author focused on strong female characters in this book.  You have Eve, which uses her power and skills to get justice for those that cannot do it themselves, there's also Peabody who is being trained by the best Homicide detective around and who believes that an officer has a duty to uphold the truth at all times. And then there's Oberman...wow...I loved her character. She uses her power within the police force for her own gain.  She is a master manipulator.  Oh my goodness, she was quite a character, she was so bad, and she was good at it too.  I don't want to give away too much of the story...


I can't wait to get my hands on the next book, New York to Dallas.


Treachery In Death by J.D. Robb (4.5/5) Futuristic Romantic Suspense; Published: Putman Adult (2/2011); Series: # 32, Eve Dallas; TBR read; Format: Ebook for Kindle; Mystery Suspense Reading Challenge 2012 (7); Books 2012 (31) 

Love Me to Death

Six years ago, Lucy Kincaid was attacked and nearly killed by an online predator. She survived. Her attacker did not. Now Lucy’s goal is to join the FBI and fight cyber-crime, but in the meantime, she’s volunteering with a victim’s rights group, surfing the Web undercover to lure sex offenders into the hands of the law. But when the predators she hunts start turning up as murder victims, the FBI takes a whole new interest in Lucy. 
With her future and possibly even her freedom suddenly in jeopardy, Lucy discovers she’s a pawn in someone’s twisted plot to mete out vigilante justice. She joins forces with security expert and daredevil Sean Rogan, and together they track their elusive quarry from anonymous online chat rooms onto the mean streets of Washington, D.C. But someone else is shadowing them: A merciless stalker has his savage eye on Lucy. The only way for her to escape his brutality may be another fight to the death.

I came across this book while I was browsing ebooks on OverDrive, ebook library provided through my local library.  I have heard of the author, but I never got around to reading her books.  Love Me To Death went straight into my virtual basket. I'm a sucker for romantic suspense and it's been a while since I read a really good.


I was hooked instantly!  I did not want to put this book down,  which I had to, it's been a very busy few days, but whenever I could out came my ipad and I went back to reading it.  The suspense/mystery had me second guessing almost all the characters, which was a bit hard to do because of a lot of them were very likable and I didn't want to be disappointed.  The main character, Lucy, is a survivor and she wants to help put away these dangerous individuals.  Soon she's the one who is being targeted and she doesn't know who to trust.  All the twists and turns are so well written that certain scenes left me feeling a tad dirty and icky.  But not all the book was dark, there were a few sweet moments which were needed and the author provided them well.  The developing relationship between Lucy and Sean was the icing on the cake.


I truly enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading more books written by Allison Brennan. I can't wait to get my hands on the second book of this series, Kiss Me, Kill Me, I've already placed a hold on it.


Love Me To Death by Allison Brennan (4.5/5) Romantic Suspense; Published: Ballantine Books (12/2010); New Author; Series: # 1, Lucy Kincaid; Format: ebook; Mystery Suspense Reading Challenge 2012 (6); Library; Books 2012 (29);

Jane Austen Ruined My Life

English professor Emma Grant has always done everything just the way her minister father told her she should -- a respectable marriage, a teaching job at a good college, and plans for the requisite two children. Life was prodigiously good, as her favorite author Jane Austen might say, until the day Emma finds her husband in bed with another woman. Suddenly, all her romantic notions a la Austen are exposed for the foolish dreams they are.
Denied tenure in the wake of the scandal and left penniless by the ensuing divorce, Emma packs up what few worldly possessions she has left and heads to England on a quest to find the missing letters of Jane Austen. Locating the elusive letters, however, isn't as straightforward as Emma hoped. The owner of the letters proves coy about her prize possessions, sending Emma on a series of Austen-related tasks that bring her closer and closer to the truth, but the sudden reappearance of Emma's first love makes everything more complicated.

In the end, Emma learns that doing the right thing has very little to do with other people's expectations and everything to do with her own beliefs. Laced with fictional excerpts from the missing letters, Jane Austen Ruined My Life is the story of a woman betrayed who uncovers the deeper meaning of loyalty.

Emma Grant is heading to England in search of Jane Austen's secret letters. She want to show the real Jane Austen to the world, in hopes of rescueing her academic career. But before she is able to get her hands on those rare letters, she needs to pass a series of tests.

I love the premise of the book. The idea of Jane Austen's romantic life is very appealing and it makes me wonder what person Jane Austen was, because there is very little known of her. I found the book very easy to read and by the end of it I wanted more. I even liked the way it ended.

Jane Austen Ruined My Life by Beth Pattillo (3.5/5) General Fiction; Published: GuidepostsBooks (2/2009); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Books 2011 (36);

Heavens to Betsy

Blessed Are the Fabulous.

Life would be perfect for Reverend Betsy Blessing if it weren't for parishioners who keel over during her sermons, steal money from the collection box, and set her up with ex-cons. Not to mention the very inconvenient feelings she is suddenly having for her long-time friend, fellow seminarian, and verbal sparring partner, David Swenson. It isn’t until Betsy is thrust into the position of senior minister for her church, however, that she discovers the real cause of her discontent: her fear of failing has become stronger than her faith in herself.

Is it really possible to keep a good woman down? Can Betsy reclaim her confidence while reconciling her clerical robe with high heels and the right shade of lipstick? A fun-loving look at a single girl’s life on the other side of the altar, Heavens to Betsy is also a hilarious and joyful celebration of strong, stylish, and faithful womanhood.

After the disaster of the previous book I needed a pick-me-upper. So I chose to read Heavens to Betsey.

Betsey is having some issues. She's in love with a man that doesn't notice her in "that way", her parish would rather have a male minister, money from Sunday collection is missing and she may just have a change of heart regarding her calling.

And it was just what I needed. It was a fast and funny read.

Heavens to Betsey by Beth Pattillo (3/5) General Fiction; Published: WaterBrook Press (6/2005); Series: # 1, Betsey Blessing; Source/Format: Library Ebook for OverDrive App; Books 2011 (34);

Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke's Heart

She lives for passion.

Bold, impulsive, and a magnet for trouble, Juliana Fiori is no simpering English miss. She refuses to play by society's rules: she speaks her mind, cares nothing for the approval of the ton, and can throw a punch with remarkable accuracy. Her scandalous nature makes her a favorite subject of London's most practiced gossips . . . and precisely the kind of woman The Duke of Leighton wants far far away from him.

He swears by reputation.

Scandal is the last thing Simon Pearson has room for in his well-ordered world. The Duke of Disdain is too focused on keeping his title untainted and his secrets unknown. But when he discovers Juliana hiding in his carriage late one evening—risking everything he holds dear—he swears to teach the reckless beauty a lesson in propriety. She has other plans, however; she wants two weeks to prove that even an unflappable duke is not above passion.

What a mouthful!

The first book of the St John family series was amazing. It actually was my favourite read of last year. The second book was an entertaining read but it felt flat in comparison to the first. So you can imagine how much I was looking forward to the final book of the series.

I cannot tell you how disappointed I was with this book. It felt to me like it was written by the same author. Where in the first two books Juliana seemed to be fiery and exciting, in this one she came across as a klutz and attention seeker. Simon on the other hand was his usual self, you know the type...stick up you know where. A snob with a capital S-N-O-B! I couldn't understand their mutual attraction. I'm sure I'm missing something....

Bah!!

Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke's Heart by Sarah MacLean (2/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (4/2011); Series: # 3, St John; Format: Ebook for Kindle; Waste of Time; Books 2011 (33);

Any Man of Mine

What happens in Vegas . . . doesn't always stay there.

Autumn Haven's Las Vegas "to-do" list said to catch a show and play the slots—not wake up married to a sexy jerk like Sam LeClaire. The first moment she saw him eyeing her like a luscious piece of the dessert buffet, her usually responsible self told her to run. And she did—right into the wildest fantasy weekend of her life. But Monday morning jolted her back to reality, and before she could say "pass the coffee," Sam was gone.

Now a successful wedding planner, Autumn hasn't clapped eyes on the heartbreaking hockey superstar for over two years . . . until she organizes his teammate's "Special Day," where Sam makes a big play to pick up where he left off! But she has vowed any man of hers plays for keeps. Is Sam the man for her or does she banish him to the sin bin forever?

I've been reading Rachel Gibson for years and she's always been a must read author for me; She used to be a must buy, but that's another story. I adore her hockey books, there's something about hockey players that make my heart do a little flip. Mind you there are some books that are better than others. And let's just say that this hockey just didn't do it for me.

I found Sam to be emotionally crippled and a jackass with a capital J. Although he did grow on me throughout the book. He made the effort to get to know his child and be a more active parent. But I just didn't buy the emotional connection to Amber, the physical one was awesome, but I didn't get anything other than that for their story.

Any Man of Mine b Rachel Gibson (3/5) Contemporary Romance; Published: Avon (4/2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Books 2011 (32);

Hidden Away

A man who shoots first and asks questions later…

Most people would take an all-expenses-paid trip to the beach in a heartbeat. Garrett Kelly only accepts to keep tabs on Sarah Daniels, who’s in hiding after witnessing a murder by Marcus Lattimer, her half-brother—and a personal enemy of KGI. This gig may be beneath a disciplined soldier like Garrett, but if he gets a shot at Lattimer, it will all be worth it…

…and the ultimate moving target.

But Garrett hadn’t counted on falling for Sarah. He’d considered seduction as a tactical maneuver, but when he glimpses Sarah’s dark past, he feels an urgent desire to keep her safe—even after she disappears on him. Garrett doesn’t know exactly who, or what, Sarah’s running from, but whatever it is, she’s running for her life…

Seriously this is getting out of control. Funny stuff...couldn't help myself and bought the next novel of the KGI series. I really couldn't help myself.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I love Garrett. In the previous books he always seemed to be the calm, cool, collected with heart of gold type of guy. And he was the same guy in this one, but don't get me started on the heroine, Sarah. There's nothing wrong with being timid, and it was totally understandable her being cautious but it wouldn't have hurt to see some backbone. Or maybe I just missed something.

But what I really loved about this book was Rusty. I adore her. And the Kelly family is wonderful!

Hidden Away by Maya Banks (4/5) Romantic Suspense; Published: Berkley (3/2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 3, KGI Novels; Books 2011 (29);

No Place to Run

Sam Kelly was her first love.

The last person Sam Kelly expected to pull wounded from the lake was Sophie Lundgren. Once they shared a brief, intense affair while Sam was undercover and then she vanished. She's spent the last months on the run, knowing that any mistake would cost her life and that of her unborn child—Sam's child. Now she's resurfaced with a warning for Sam: this time, he's the one in danger.

Now he's her last chance.

Sam has too many questions to let her slip away again—like why she disappeared in the first place. This time he vows not to be seduced. But one look in her eyes, and the passion burns again, and Sam knows he’ll do anything to keep her and his child safe. However, Sophie’s dark past is more dangerous than he imagines, and the only way for either to survive it is to outrun it.

I recently read the first book of the KGI series, The Darkest Hour, and I just had to get my hands on the second book of the series, No Place to Run. So I broke down and bought the ebook.

I wasn't disappointed in buying it. I was hooked right from the beginning. Sam swept in my life and captured it for a whole weekend. And I'm not complaining one bit. Ok, just one little complaint...the heroine. Don't get me wrong I really liked her, although her age was never revealed, she was young and she knew what she wanted. She wanted to keep her baby safe, and I can totally relate to that. My problem was her name, Sophie. It's a beautiful name but it's also my young daughters name, and I was having trouble ignoring that fact whenever a sex scene came up.

Sam is one of those heroes that I will look back with having the whole package. The looks, the alpha type, the dangerous job, the stubbornness, and after being lied to so many by the heroine he still wants to protect her.

No Place to Run by Maya Banks (4.5/5) Romantic Suspense; Published: Berkley (12/2010); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 2, KGI Novel; Books 2011 (26)

Lover Unleashed

Payne, twin sister of Vishous, is cut from the same dark, warrior cloth as her brother: A fighter by nature, and a maverick when it comes to the traditional role of Chosen females, there is no place for her on the Far Side… and no role for her on the front lines of the war, either.

When she suffers a paralyzing injury, human surgeon Dr. Manuel Manello is called in to treat her as only he can- and he soon gets sucked into her dangerous, secret world. Although he never before believed in things that go bump in the night- like vampires- he finds himself more than willing to be seduced by the powerful female who marks both his body and his soul.

As the two find so much more than an erotic connection, the human and vampire worlds collide … just as a centuries old score catches up with Payne and puts both her love and her life in deadly jeopardy.

It says that this book is supposed to be Payne and Manny's story, but after reading the book I think it was Vishous' book. A revisiting Vishous and Dr Jane's relationship...Truth be told their original wasn't all that appealing to me, but for some reason I truly liked them in this one.

Not all the usual characters were shown in the book, but mere mentions here and there which was okay with me. But I really wanted more with Blay and Qhuinn and of course Payne and Manny. But the moments with Payne and Manny were great, I just wished that were more of than.

And like the last few books of this series, I find that the book was more urban fantasy than a paranormal romance. But I love the overall series and I will continue on buying these books. I cannot wait to see what will come up next.

Lover Unleashed by JR Ward (4/5) Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance; Published: NAL Hardcover (3/2011); Format: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 9, Black Dagger Brotherwood; Books 2011 (24);

Rogue in My Arms

Laconic Sir Colin Lambert isn't at all worried about the prospect of fatherhood--not if it brings the lovely actress Chantal back into his life! She refused him once, but now with little Melody to tempt her, perhaps she will return to him and be his wife at last!

The only problem is, Chantal has disappeared!

Prudence Filby isn't as lowborn as she seems, but no one would hire a lady as a stage seamstress. Now that the obnoxious Chantal has fled without paying Pru, she doesn't even have that income and her little brother Evan is getting hungrier by the moment! When the lovesick Mr. Lambert offers to pay her to help him find Chantal--and help him mind little Melody on the journey--Pru has no choice but to take him up on it!

Colin wants to fly to Chantal's side, but with Miss Filby and the little ones in tow, he finds his way hampered by mishap after mishap. Along the way he realizes that the woman he wants is not the one he's chasing!

The second book of the series, The Runaway Brides by Celeste Bradley.

In this book Colin continues the search for little Melody mother. He believes that there is chance that Mellie is his daughter with an ex-mistress of his, Chantal a famous actress. Along the way the meets Pru and her brother Evan. Pru worked for Chantal in Brighton in a theatre company. But Chantal has disappeared and Colin enlists Pru's help in locating her and also helping with Mellie. Well you can probably figure out what happens next...gorgeous hunk and a very pretty girl. Anyway add a dishonest inn-keeper, a troupe of traveling actors and a outspoken designer and you get a pretty entertaining story. I just wish I liked the heroine more, for some reason she got on my nerves.

Rogue in My Arms by Celeste Bradley (3.5/5) Historical Romance; Published: St. Martin's Paperbacks (3/2010); Source: Ebook for Kindle; Series: # 2, The Runaway Brides; Books 2011 (22);

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 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);

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);