Review: Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh

WARNING: Contains mild spoilers ( the name of the hero and the heroine) 


The Particulars:  Paranormal Romance, Berkley, available as e-book and in Print

The Source:  The bookstore

The Grade: B

The blurb:

Step into New York Times bestseller Nalini Singh’s explosive and shockingly passionate Psy-Changeling world…

A dangerous, volatile rebel, hands stained bloodred.
A woman whose very existence has been erased.
A love story so dark, it may shatter the world itself.
A deadly price that must be paid.
The day of reckoning is here.

From “the alpha author of paranormal romance” (Booklist) comes the most highly anticipated novel of her career—one that blurs the line between madness and genius, between subjugation and liberation, between the living and the dead

The Review:

I snapped up a copy when my local bookstore by mistake started selling this book too early.  (I got a bit lucky, since they had computer issues, so they couldn’t see that the book had a hard street date :) ) This  is an excellent addition to the Psy Changeling series.

The world of the Psy is crumbling in this book, and there were a lot at stake.The plot was fast paced, with  a deft mix of action and romance.   I couldn’t stop reading, as the book builds toward the final confrontation with Pure Psy.  There were times were I hated Pure Psy for the decisions they made, and the lines they crossed.  

Interwoven in this is the romance subplot.  It was exquisite.  From how Kaleb guided Sahara back out of her shell, to how Sahara started to rebuild her life.  What I liked was how Kaleb opened up with Sahara. And the things he revealed was heart wrenching.   I liked Sahara. She had a spine, which made me cheer for her. I also appreciated that she made her own path during the book. And her gift made me shiver, yet it made sense in a way. I loved how Kaleb and Sahara grounded each other, and created something that was whole from two flawed halves.

Maybe it was because I had been looking forward to this book for so long, but I had some trouble sink in to the story.  Because of that I had trouble connecting with Kaleb and Sahara. It is possibly that it partly stems from  my uncertainty if  they were too scarred to truly love at times. But when they got their HEA it felt right, and they had earned it..

 

Review: The Hob's bargain by Patricia Briggs

The Particulars: Fantasy,  Ace, available in print and as e-book 

The Source:  The Bookshelf

The Grade: C+

The Blurb:

 To save her village from ruthless raiders, Aren of Fallbrook strikes a bargain with the Hob, a magical, humanlike creature imbued with the power of the mountains. But the Hob will exact a heavy price to defend the village--a price Aren herself must pay.

The Review:

I was in the mood for Patricia Briggs, so I decided to re-read this one.

It was nice to revisit Fallbrook. The world felt very believable. From how they focused on what was best for the village, to the contact they had with the rest of the world, to their fears and their prejudices. I liked how the villagers gradually became aware that not just magic, but other supernatural beings were stirring again. I loved how everything had a price, both when it comes to magic, and dealing with the supernatural.

It was intresting to follow Aren, and the rest of the villagers as they fought to save their village from the raiders and the wildlings. But, they also struggled with their prejudices and their reaction to magic and wildlings. I admired Aren for her courage. Both when it comes to daring to speak about her visions, despite knowing what the cost would be. But also when it comes to putting all the clues together, and strike a bargain with the Hob. In fact, it felt as if it wasn't until then the story really, started. But it was fascinating to follow Caefawn and Aren as he taught her how to harness her gifts. At the same time, he courted her. I liked the fact that the romance between Caefawn and Aren was sweet. It fit the story.

In the end, it all come down a confrontation with the villain, and Aren stepped up. My heart almost broke at the sacrifice she made.

This is one of Patricia Briggs earlier books.  And it shows, the plot has its weak spots, the characters could do with a bit more fleshing out.  Still, it wasn't bad, none of Patricia Briggs books are. But... I had troubles connecting with the characters.   Part of it was because I had read this story, many, many times :).

( On a side note: I prefer the old cover. Sure, the new cover is nice, but where is the hob?)

Review: Revelation by Lauren Dane

The Particulars:  Paranormal Romance,  Samhain Publishing, available in print and as e-book

The Source: Purchased at Books on Board

The Grade: B-

The Blurb:

He has the one thing she never thought she deserved. A place to belong…
At long last, Kendra Kellogg has found her sister—but she’s no closer to filling the gaps in her past. The magick that brought them together makes them targets for dark mages intent on finishing what started with their mother’s murder.
As if her life wasn’t chaotic enough, in barrels the one thing she doesn’t expect, Max de La Vega. He’s six-and-a-half-feet of cocoa-brown alpha male. He’s strong, intelligent, sexy and intense. Everything she’d wanted in a man. And he scares the hell out of her. Still healing from a disastrous past relationship, she wonders if she’ll ever have that kind of forever.
The next in line to run his jaguar jamboree, Max is unused to hearing “no”. Once he knows what he wants, he assumes he’ll get it. And he wants Kendra. She deserves happiness and it’s his mission to give it to her.
When dark mages attempt to steal her magickal energy, Max’s cat agrees with the man—Kendra is his to protect and he will stop at nothing to keep her safe. She can push him away as hard as she likes, he’s not going anywhere.

 The Review:

This is the second book in the De La Vegas series, and it is as good as the first book, Trinity.

It was intriguing to delve more into the world, and see how witches lived. From how they used magic, to how they struggled with change. I also liked to see how mages was affected by the magic they stole, and how they constantly was on the hunt for a new source to drain.

I liked Kendra, she had a streak of independence and sassyness that appealed to me. It was a hoot watching her and Max banter, and occasionally butt heads, as they took the first steps in their relationship.

The plot hooked me from the start. I liked how Kendra started to make a new life in Boston, at the same time as she connected with her sister. The plot twists took me by surprise, yet made sense. I I liked how several separate threads turned out to be connected. It was fascinating to watch Kendra struggle with her scars from the past, and at the same time take her place in the Jamboree.

So what I didn't like. It felt like their romance happened so fast. I know they had know each other for a couple of months, but it felt like much shorter in the book.

The Source of Magic by Cate Rowan

 The Particulars:  Fantasy Romance,  indie, avaialble as e-book and in print 

The Source: Allromance

The Grade: B-

The Blurb:

When a gorgeous man clasps Jilian Stewart to his chest and yanks her from Scotland into a magical battle, she thinks it must be another of her bizarre dreams. Plagued by unnerving visions of this man, she’s sure they’re brought on by the stress of her mother’s deadly paralysis. Instead, Jilian finds herself ensnared in a world of fantasy, treachery, and family secrets, opposing the one man who can make everything right.
Prince Alvarr, her sexy abductor, offers a cure for her dying mother, but won’t send Jilian home with it until she helps him destroy the evil mage threatening his people—with mystical powers she never knew she had.

The Review:

This book has been on my wishlist since I bought Kismet's Kiss. I never got around to buy it, until now. I am glad I bought it.

Teganne was an intriguing contrast to Kad, and it felt very believable. From the way the castle was described to the customs and traditions they had. I also liked the magic, and the fact that the Kyrra was limited. Once you burned it out, it was gone forever.

I liked Jillian and Alvarr. Jillian's reaction to suddenly being in Teganne, and the struggle to adapt to it, and what it meant felt believable. Alvarr was honorable warrior, but I also liked that he struggled with keeping his country independent.

It was intriguing to follow Jillian's and Alvarr's romance. From the way they clash in the beginning, to how they gradually start to get to know each other. I liked how both of them had their own issues to work through, and how that caused additional problems between them. I also liked that they were ready to compromise with each other. The plot twists were unexpected, yet logical when they happened.

.

Despite all the things I liked with this novel, I never felt the desperation that Alvarr and Jillian felt.

Review: Lost in You by Lauren Dane

The Particulars: Contemporary Romance, Samhain Publishing, available as e-book

The Source: Books on boards

The Grade: B

The Blurb:

It hasn’t been easy for Joe Harris to live down his not-so-honorable past, but the military made him a better man. He’s determined to make up for past mistakes, starting with coming home to care for his ailing father.
Things are going as planned until his best friend’s little sister comes barreling into his life. Funny, quick talking, smart, beautiful, she’s a temptation he tries—and fails—to resist.
When Beth Murphy hears Joe is back in town, she makes sure she’s the first on his welcoming committee. Though he tries to pretend he’s gruff and unworthy of her, she sees the man who spoils his dog, who touches her like she’s precious. Cherished. But there’s one wall she can’t break down—the truth about what’s happening at home.
On the night the nature of his father’s illness becomes painfully, publicly apparent, Joe does the right thing—push Beth as far away as possible. But if he thought she’d go away quietly, he’s about to learn she’s made of sterner stuff.

Tbe Review:

Lauren Dane is slowly becoming an autobuy author for me, at least when it comes to contemporary romance.

It was nice to revisit Petal, and the Murphy-Chase family. I loved how the Murphys have fought hard to crawl up from the hell hole they were born in. They have created a new, better life for themselves.

Beth and Joe was a touching couple. I liked that their romance wasn't easy, and that they had their bumps. I loved that Beth knew exactly what she wanted, and didn't hesitate in pursuing Joe. I liked Joe as well,even though he occasionally was a jerk.

I also appreciated how their romance wasn't easy. They had their bumps, created by misunderstandings and Joe's reluctance to reveal his father's health issues. How Joe and his family struggled to keep it within the family, made sense. Often psychological problems are viewed as something to be ashamed of. But all their obstacles made their HEA so much sweeter, since they had fought hard for it.

Despite the many things that I liked with this book, the grade is pulled down by the headhopping. Most of the time I was able to ignore it, but there were times when it confused me.

Review:Trinity by Lauren Dane

The Particulars: Paranormal Romance, Samhain Publishing, available in print and e-book.

The Source: All Romance

The Grade: B-

The blurb:
Renee Parcell loves her life. Her smoothie/coffee cart business is successful, and she’s deeply in love with her boyfriend, Galen. He makes her laugh, he’s gainfully employed, and he satisfies her as only a sexy cat shifter can. He even puts the toilet seat down.
Yet they both sense something in the air. An anticipation that leaves them both unsettled.
Tall, blond and gorgeous Jack Meyers, Enforcer of National Pack and one of the most beautiful men Renee and Galen have ever seen. When he stumbles into Renee’s life, the riddle of their expectation is solved—Renee is Jack’s mate. What surprises them all is when the three of them touch, magick creates an unexpected triple bond of witch, cat and wolf.
Even as they learn to navigate the steamy intricacies of their bond, a threat looms over Renee. First in the form of resurrected memories, then in the shape of darker magicks someone is aiming at her. Set on stealing her inherent powers—even her life.
Renee can stand to lose almost anything, except her mates. But there seems to be no talking them out of laying everything on the line for her…

 The Review:

This review is a sign of the power of the re-read. I read Trinity for the first time last year, and I liked it. But, then out of the blue I was hit by an urge to read more of Lauren Dane's Paranormal Romances, so I decided to re-read it.

I liked the World that Lauren Dane had created. It was intriguing and believable. From the close knitted way of both the jamboree and the National Pack, to the way not everyone loved Renee.

I also liked how well intigrated the supernatural was into the society. While they didn't tell everyone they met that they were shifters, they didn't struggle to keep it a secret.

I loved Renee. She was a wonderful mix of independence and generosity. I liked the glimpses I got of her past, even though they were heartwrenching.

Galen was hot, supportive and just the right kind of possessive. In other words: just like I want my alpha heros. Jack was hot, supportive, but I liked that he pushed Renee into opening up.

The plot was well written, and engaging. It hooked me from the start. I liked how Renee's past and present got caught up with each other, but also how it gave rise to more questions, and more trouble. But I'll admit that I wished that story had given a better glimpse into the reasoning of the villain.

That said, I had a lot of trouble with the swift transistions. One moment they were in a public place, the next they were somewere else and having sex. It might be that I simply missed the lines that took them home, but it was a bit confusing.

Review: The Shop of Shades and Secrets by Colleen Gleason

The Particulars: Contemporary Romance with a dash of mystery, Avid Press, avaible as ebook

The Source: Kobo

The Grade: B

The Blurb:

When Fiona Murphy inherits a small antiques shop from an old man she met only once, she’s filled with surprise, confusion and delight—and a little bit of terror at having a new responsibility in a life she prefers to be free and easy.

As she takes over ownership of the quaint shop, odd things begin to happen. Lights come on and off by themselves, even when they are unplugged…and there is a chilly breeze accompanied by the scent of roses even when the windows are closed.

H. Gideon Nath, III, is the stiff and oh-so-proper attorney who helps settle Fiona’s inheritance, and despite her flightiness and fascination with all things New Age, he finds himself attracted to her against his better judgment.

After she finds an unpleasant surprise in one of the shop’s closets, scares off an intruder in the store, and uses her skill at palmistry to read Gideon’s future--of which she seems to be a part--Fiona begins to realize that her free and easy life is about to change…whether she wants it to or no

The Review:

I read the first book in the Gardella Vampire Hunter series awhile ago, and couldn't see what the fuss was. So, when I bought the To Die For bundle, primarily for the Jana DeLeon novel, I decided I might as well give Ms Gleason another try.

And I am glad I did.

This was a well written contemporary romance, with a dash of mystery and paranormal activity.

The story hooked me from the start, and I loved to the read about Fiona and Gideon. How their relationship developed, from a first tense meeting to a romance. On the outside, they were total opposites. Gideon was a stiff, proper attorney and Fiona was flamboyant and outspoken.

But I liked how they affected each other, in good ways. Gideon helped ground Fiona and Fiona helped Gideon relax.

What I liked was how their romance wasn't easy. They both struggled with it, and wasn't sure if it was the right thing to do. Tossed into that mix, was the fact that someone was looking for something. There were plenty of unexpected plottwists, and I enjoyed how Fiona had to scramble a bit to get out of trouble, and each time the the villain got more and more desperate.

So what I didn't like with this book... Fiona found the biggest clue to the mystery, purely by coincidence. Which felt a bit like cheating to me. I would have liked if her search had been a bit more active.

Review: Darkhouse by Karina Halle

The Particulars: Paranormal Suspense, Smashwords, available as e-book

The Source: Smashwords

The Grade: B+

The Blurb:

There’s always been something a bit off about Perry Palomino. Though she’s been dealing with a quarter-life crisis and post-college syndrome like any other twenty-something, she’s still not what you would call “ordinary.” For one thing, there’s her past which she likes to pretend never happened, and then there’s the fact that she sees ghosts.

Luckily for her, that all comes in handy when she stumbles across Dex Foray, an eccentric producer for an upcoming webcast on ghost hunters. Even though the show’s budget is non-existent and Dex himself is a maddening enigma, Perry is instantly drawn into a world that both threatens her life and seduces her with a sense of importance. Her uncle’s haunted lighthouse provides the perfect catalyst and backdrop for a mystery that unravels the threads of Perry’s fragile sanity and causes her to fall for a man, who, like the most dangerous of ghosts, may not be all that he seems

The Review:

Mandi at Smexybooks raved about Sins and Needles, which made me curious about Karina Halle. When I went to Smashwords, I discovered that this one was free so I downloaded it. I am glad I did.

I liked Perry a lot. She felt very normal with her complains about her boring job, her uncertainty what to do in the future and her family's pressure. I also liked that she was scared to death while investigating the lighthouse.

This isn't a romance, but I could sense something between Dex and Perry. I liked how she was torn between frustration that he didn't call and hope that she might get a kick in her career.

The Oregon setting fit this story to the T, and I loved how the author used the history of the place to increase the suspense.

The plot hooked me from the start. The tension rose slowly, until I couldn't keep on reading, since it was late and I feared I would get nightmares if I kept reading. Yes, it was that scary. Also, I'll never look at flashbacks in the same way again. Normally, flashbacks makes me DNF a book, but not here. Here, the flashbacks were a vital part of story, and increased the sense of danger in the story.

That said, I felt that there was too many unanswered questions at the end of the story. But maybe I'll find out more in the next book.

Review: Angel by Johanna Lindsey

The Particulars: Historical Romance, Avon, available as e-book and in print.

The Source: The bookshelf

The Grade: B

The Blurb:

Hoping to cool off a twenty-five-year-old feud between two neighboring families, Cassie Stuart only succeeds in pouring kerosene on the flames. Both sides have warned her to get out of Texas pronto. . .or they will burn her father's ranch to the ground. What Cassie needs is a peacemaker but she ends up with a widow-maker instead.
He is called Angel, a ruggedly handsome hired gun with eyes as black as sin. Unwanted and unwelcomed by his ungrateful employer, he would just as soon leave Cassie to fend for herself. But a stubborn sense of duty, and a desire to taste the sweetness of her kiss steels Angel's resolve to make Cassie want him, come hell or high water. . .and for more than his gun alone.

The Review: 

This is one of the classic, old skool, historical romances. I bought it years ago, and had forgotten about it when I found it in the wardrobe at my mum's place. (My wardrobe there is BIG and filled with books.)

I know from experience that some books doesn't survived the test of time. But I was happily surprised when I started to re-read this one.

I fell in love with the characters, especially Angel and Cassie. Cassie's nosiness and tendency to poke her nose into other people's business made me laugh. Angel had a core of honor that I liked, even though I had to blink away tears when .he spoke about his childhood.

And the setting.The setting felt well researched. It was interesting to get a glimpse of the wild west, and one that at least felt believable. In fact, it felt so believable that I sometimes could feel the burning sun, and taste the dust in the air.

The plot was fast paced. I admired Cassie for her refusal to back down, and do the sensible thing which would have been to head back to Wyoming. I loved how Cassie's stubbornness kept Angel on his toes. There were plenty of plottwists that took me by surprise, yet in hindsight they made sense.

I enjoyed this book, for ¾ of the book ,but after awhile I started to get a bit annoyed, since it felt  like their road to their HEA was stretched out a bit too long. But it was a good read, and one I plan to re-read.

Review: Yorkshire by Lynne Connolly

The Particulars: Historical Romance, Samhain, available as e-book and in print

The Source: Amazon freebie ( also available at BN and Sony)

The Grade: B+

The blurb:

Rose Golightly is a country girl who thinks her life will continue on its comfortable course, but a series of events changes that for good. On a visit to the ancestral estate of Hareton Abbey, Richard Kerre, Lord Strang, enters her life. A leader of society, a man known for extravagance in dress and life, Richard is her fate. And she is his.

Richard is to marry a rich, frigid woman in a few weeks, and has deliberately closed his heart to love. Then a coach accident throws his wounded body into Rose’s arms.

With one kiss, Richard and Rose discover in each other the passion they thought they’d never find.

But the accident that brought them together was an act of sabotage. Somewhere, in the rotting hulk of a once beautiful stately home, a murderer is hiding. Richard and Rose set out to solve the mystery, and find the layers of scandal go deeper than simply determining who is guilty. And that doing the right thing could separate them—forever.

The review:

Lynne Connolly have been on my To check out list for awhile, so when I discovered that Samhain offered the first book in the Richard and Rose series as a freebie, I decided to download it.

And I am glad I did. This story hooked me from the start. I loved the setting. The derelict manor, and how she with small touches showed how bleak life had been there for Lady Harcourt.

I also liked the down to earth way Rose and her family is described. They are in the upper echelons of the middle class, and they are happy to be middle class.

This was an stark contrast compared to Richard and his family. They are nobles, and it showed.

I could understand the worry Lizzie felt when she realised that Rose was attracted to Richard, since Richard had a certain reputation. Not to mention that he was engaged.

A lot of the enjoyment with this book stems from the characters.

Most of the focus is on romance between Rose and Richard. How they struggled with the attraction they felt to each other, and how they decided to act on it. I liked that both of them knew that their relationship would have an hard path towards their HEA.

Then there is Rose's family. I loved quiet feelings between Jacob and Martha. The bubbly excitement of her sister Lizzie.

That said, this novel has its weak spots. While the romance is fascinating, the mystery subplot felt a bit predictable, both when it came to what happened, and who caused it. The major problem I had was that it felt likethey stumbled upon the biggest clue purely by coincidence.

Still I do plan to read more books by Lynne Connolly in the future.

Review: Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal by Grace Burrowes

The Particulars: Historical Romance, Sourcebooks, available in print and as e-book

The Source: Pre-ordered at Allromance

The Grade: B

The Blurb

Maggie Windham, oldest of the Windham sisters and a by-blow from His Grace’s pre-marital wild oats, finds herself in desperate needs of an investigator to help her retrieve a missing reticule. Benjamin Hazlit knows the Windham family secrets, and can be trusted to keep them to himself, so Maggie turns to Benjamin, though it means ignoring his too-broad shoulders, his too-knowing smile… and his too-skilled kisses.

As Benjamin starts the search for Maggie’s missing purse, he realizes two things: First, whatever was in that purse, its loss has Maggie not just rattled, but terrified. Second, Benjamin will go to any lengths to see Maggie’s peace of mind restored, even if it means he must keep himself in very close proximity to the shy, secretive lady who says she wants nothing to do with him.

The Review:

After the disappointment I felt over Lady Sophia's Christmas Gift, I hesitated but I decided to purchase it. In fact, I did more than purchase it. I decided to use one of Allromance ebooks 10th for free discounts, and pre-ordered it. And l am glad it did.

This book reminded me why Grace Burrowes is on my auto buy list. It has everything I want in a good novel. Both Benjamin and Maggie are fascinating characters. None of them are intrested in waltzing around in ball rooms.

One thing that I like is that the fact that Maggie is on the shelf. She have fought for her independence, and won it. It was fascinating to see how the wall of isolation she had built around her to keep her secrets hidden came crumbling down when Benjamin started to poke his nose into her life.

Benjamin is the perfect compliment for Maggie. He is curious, strong and trustworth. It was touching to watch how he gradually coaxed out Maggie her secrets.

But what I liked the most were how tightly intervoven Benjamin's search for Maggie's purse and their romance was. Often, the mystery plot feels tacked on but not in this case. No, in this novel Benjamin's search is what propels the novel forward.

I also liked that the romance developed gradaully through the book, and that even when they have revealed the secrets to each other their path isn't easy.  

The end was touching on so many levels, and changed a lot of the family dynamics within the Windham family.

So what I didn't like.

I had a lot of trouble with believing that Benjamin could keep the fact that he was titled a secret from a big part of the Ton. Yes, he might be from Cumbria but still. I thought there were some sort of calendar that listed all eligible Lords? Or maybe I am mixing things up.

Review:Mad Maria's Daughter by Patricia Rice

The Particulars: Historical Romance, Regency Reads, e-book.

The Source: Fictionwise

The Grade: B+

The Blurb:

Daphne Templeton knows society has stigmatized her because of her mad mother, so she decides to leave London and live with her Aunt Agatha in the country. On the way she's abducted by a highwayman, whom she insists see her to safety. Meeting neighbor Lord Griffin, Daphne finds him vaguely familiar and wonders at the connection between him and the highwayman. But Lord Griffin's twin is dead-isn't he?

The review

This is another book from the unread pile, or in this case folder, that I purchased months ago. It languished unread until a couple of days ago when I suddenly craved a Patricia Rice book. I had two unread historical romances and I decided to read this one.

And I am glad I did.

This book was a hoot, from the open scene to the end.

A big reason was Daphne. She knew that she was one the shelf, and she accepted it. More than that, it allowed her to be blunt, and outspoken. She argued with Evan, and Gordon. I kept wondering who she would pick: the proper Gordon, or Evan that was a rogue.

Mixed in with the romance was a good dose of mystery. The mystery propelled a lot of the plot. From Daphne's arrival to the end. I giggled when Daphne poked her nose into places a proper lady would have stayed away from. Evan and Gordon got a bit exparated at her, but she had a heart of gold. She coax the truth out of Evan and Gordon. And promptly comes up with a plan to lure out the villain.

And of course everything goes wrong. I loved how all of them got twisted into lies and part truths. There were moments of hilarity, like when Gordon's grandfather showed up. Not to mention the

arrival of Daphne's protective father and brother.

The end.. was surprising, and fitting. I felt compassion with Daphne since that must have been her worst nightmare.

So what I didn't like. Even though I admired Daphne for her courage, it sometimes felt like she stepped over the the thin line between being brave, and being reckless.

Still, I am definitely buying more of Patricia Rice regencies in the future, since this book was a blast.

Review: Copper Lake Secrets by Marilyn Pappano

The Particulars: Romantic Suspense, Harlequin, available as e-book

The Source: Purchased at Allromance

The Grade: B-

The Blurb:

 "What happened that summer?"

The ill-fated vacation Reece Howard spent at her grandparents' Georgia home long ago changed her in ways her mind still refuses to remember. She forgot about the man she once knew as "Jones," but she can't ignore the flashes of desire she now feels toward him. With her family estranged, she doesn't have a good reason to return to Fair Winds. Until now.

Jones is looking for answers…answers he can find only at the plantation he left behind years before. By surprise, he discovers Reece there—all grown up and beautiful—never imagining he might be able to help chase away her demons. And neither of them expects an attraction as combustible as the secrets surrounding them.

But falling in love might be the most dangerous thing they can do…

The Review:

I love Marilyn Pappano's Copper Lake books. I don't rush out and buy the latest immediately, since I am not keeping track of her release schedule, but I buy them when I am in the mood for Romantic Suspense, set in the South. This book is no different. Or actually, it is. It has the additional element of a haunted plantation filled with secrets.Which is another thing that I love.

The atmosphere gave me goosebumps. Part of it was because it could be taken from a historical novel, set in the south. From the house, to Miss Willa's manners. Just about everything.

It was nailbiting to follow Reece and Jones search for the truth of what happened that summer 15 years earlier. Their search shed new light on what happened all those years ago. From Reece arrival, to the foggy memories that she have dreamt nightmares about.

The characters felt like mirror images of each other. They were estranged from their families, both of them had lost something during their Summer in Copper Lake. It was touching to read about their unfolding romance. 

So what I didn't like. If this had been release as a Paranormal Suspense, I would have given it an A. Since it is published as a Romantic Suspense, I cannot give it an A. Why? The romance between Reece and Jones are sweet and touching, but there is no obstacles for them to overcome in their relationship. Or if it is, it was swallowed by the Suspense part of the book.

Still, I enjoyed it and I plan to read more by Marilyn Pappano in the future.

Review: Becoming Miss Becky by Shannon Stacey

The particulars:  Historical Romance, Samhain, available as e-book and in print.
The Source: Purchased, but cannot remember were.
The Grade: B

Blurb:
A sheriff with a stone-cold reputation. An innocent madam hell-bent on disturbing his peace. Who will be the first to give in?
Rebecca Hamilton passed through life as bland as biscuits—until the day she buried her father and fled out West with a fortune in stolen jewelry. She arrives in Gardiner, Texas to find her aunt has bequeathed to her the only whorehouse in town.
With no other prospects except a proposal from a tall, dark stranger wearing a badge, Rebecca decides to embrace her vibrant aunt’s legacy and never again live under the thumb of an overbearing man.
After years of cultivating a reputation as a ruthless lawman, Adam Caldwell can’t believe he’s offered to marry the quiet, rather plain new madam. Even more perplexing is the fact she turns him down, choosing instead to become a sass-talkin’, sashay-walkin’ vision in feathers and lace.
With an innocent madam wanting him to teach her to be as wicked as she looks and rowdy townsfolk split over the scandal, the sheriff figures his cup of troubles is about full. But a man from Rebecca’s past catches up with her, and Adam has to decide just how much he’s willing to sacrifice for the woman who refuses to give up on becoming Miss Becky.

The Review:

I read and enjoyed the Kowalski books by Shannon Stacey, so when I discovered that she had written historicals, I decided to buy one of them.  It took awhile before I read it, but in the end I am glad I did.  This was an fun read. It was fascinating to follow Adam's and Becky's relationship. From the start, when she is a bland mouse, through her determination to rule her own life, to their HEA. 
I loved the characters.  Becky might look like a  mouse, but she have a lot of courage.  Both when it comes to travelling alone all the way to Texas, and the way she refused to give in.  I admired  the way she refused to let anyone decide how she should dress and behave.  It made sense. She had blended in all her life, and now she didn't have to.  And then there is the fact that she is living in a whorehouse.  Even if she isn't a whore.

And Adam. He was a fascinating mix of stubbornness, jealousy and honor.  He was ruthless when it comes to keep order in town.    And keeping order was a part of the plot.  Since Becky's arrival split the town in two. Some liked her, some didn't. 

All this took place in the town of Gardiner ( the name made me giggle, since it mean curtains in Swedish).  The setting felt realistic, from the biblethumping characters ( some of them) to the Mercantile and the horsetrough.  I could sometimes smell the horses, and the dust in the air.

So what I didn't like. Sometimes, it felt... shallow.  I don't expect  to read a philosophic essay when I  open an e-book, but I do expect to feel some sort of connection to the characters. 
Yes, I enjoyed the book, the banter, the setting.  But I didn't feel a tug at my heart.  Still, it was a fun read, and what I needed right now.

Review: Silent Blade by Ilona Andrews

Silent Blade by Ilona Andrews

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 The blurb:
On Meli Galdes’ home planet, the struggle for power is a bloody, full-contact sport—in business and on the battlefield. For years her lethal skills have been a valuable asset in advancing her family’s interests. She’s more than earned her right to retire, but her kinsmen have one last favor to ask.

Kill the man who ruined her life.

The Review:
Since Silver Shark was released today, I decided to review the prequel. The world of the Kinsmen is fascinating. At the same time high tech, yet it almost feels regency when it comes to the families. I’ll admit, the fact that Meli was engaged to Celino at the age of 10 felt wrong, yet it is a part of society. I loved how Meli accepted the contract, and used all she knew about Celino to snare him in.

The result is a delicious dance of love past and present. As she plans to get her revenge, Celino falls hard. And so does she. Yet she walked away. I loved that, there felt like poetic justice. But, they get their HEA, so don’t worry. And I loved the ending. It fit the story perfectly





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Review: The Sergant's Lady by Susanna Fraser

The Sergeant's Lady by Susanna Fraser

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Particulars: Historical Romance, Carina Press, e-book.

The Review:
The blurb:

Highborn Anna Arrington has been "following the drum," obeying the wishes of her cold, controlling cavalry officer husband. When he dies, all she wants is to leave life with Wellington's army in Spain behind her and go home to her family's castle in Scotland.

Sergeant Will Atkins ran away from home to join the army in a fit of boyish enthusiasm. He is a natural born soldier, popular with officers and men alike, uncommonly brave and chivalrous, and educated and well-read despite his common birth.

As Anna journeys home with a convoy of wounded soldiers, she forms an unlikely friendship with Will. When the convoy is ambushed and their fellow soldiers captured, they become fugitives—together. The attraction between them is strong—but even if they can escape the threat of death at the hands of the French, is love strong enough to bridge the gap between a viscount's daughter and an innkeeper's son?

My impressions:
I picked up this last year, when Kobo had offered selected Carina Press titles for 0.99. For a number of reasons, I didn't get around to read it until now. This book is on many levels a complex story about survival and second changes. The characters suffers through the whole novel. Even when they are in camp, there is some sort of trouble. The plot is gripping, and with unexpected plottwists. But what I really loved with this book is the settings. I love how the setting is described in a blunt honest way. The dangers with being on the trail, in enemy land, isn't hidden. But, despite the plotting, and setting which is good I felt that the characters were lacking. Oh, they weren't bad. They were flawed, but I didn't feel that they grew. Or maybe it was there and I didn't discover it.





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Review: When Strangers Marry by Lisa Kleypas

When Strangers Marry by Lisa Kleypas

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The particulars: Historical Romance, Avon, available as e-book



The review:



The blurb:



Lysette buried her face against Max's throat. "But he's going to take me away. Don't let him, don't -- " "You're not going anywhere," Max interrupted. "Calm yourself, Lysette. It's not good for you to become excited." His possessiveness made her strangely giddy. As far as he was concerned, she was his, and no one was going to take her away from him. Max stared at Etienne. His voice was soft, but it contained a note that chilled Lysette's blood. "If you so much as disarrange a hair on her head, I'll tear you apart." Lysette couldn't believe it, but she didn't care about her ruined reputation. The only thing that mattered was that she wouldn't have to marry Etienne.





My impressions:

This was one of the first romance novel I bought in English. I loved it then, and I love it now. It isn't the most gripping romance novel, and it is probably a bit dated since it is almost 20 years old. But, I just love reading about Maximilien's and Lysette's whirlwind romance. It is set in New Orleans, against a backdrop of change and intrigues. No matter how many time I have read it, the story sucks me in. The plot has enough twists to keep up my interest, but what makes me coming back again and again is the characters. The characters is a part of the era, but it feels logical.



I think it is out of print, but if you finds it in the library, grab a copy!



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Review: A Tailor-Made Bride by Karen Witemeyer

A Tailor-Made Bride by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The particulars: Historical Christian Romance, Bethany House, available as e-book and in print.



The Review:

The blurb:

When a dressmaker who values beauty tangles with a liveryman who condemns vanity, the sparks begin to fly!
Jericho "J.T." Tucker wants nothing to do with the new dressmaker in Coventry, Texas. He's all too familiar with her kind--shallow women more devoted to fashion than true beauty. Yet, except for her well-tailored clothes, this seamstress is not at all what he expected.

Hannah Richards is confounded by the man who runs the livery. The unsmiling fellow riles her with his arrogant assumptions and gruff manner, while at the same time stirring her heart with unexpected acts of kindness. Which side of Jericho Tucker reflects the real man?
When Hannah decides to help Jericho's sister catch a beau--leading to consequences neither could have foreseen--will Jericho and Hannah find a way to bridge the gap between them?

My impressions:

I picked up this when it was free on Kobo a couple of months ago. I rarely reads Christian Romance, but something with the blurb snagged my interest. And I am glad I read it. It is hard to explain what I liked most, but the short story is that I fell in love with the writing. It was a light, and hopeful story set in the West. The author had clearly spent time reseaching the setting, since it felt realistic. The plot wasn't that special, but the characters. Oh my. The characters were a delight. Not perfect, but they were scarred, yet they still had some kind of hope for humanity. It was fascinating to see Jericho's growth, from loathing Hannah's work, to accepting it, and the rest of Hannah. Hannah is a strong woman, determinded to succeed.



I wont say anything more, but I encourage you to buy the book. It is well worth the money!



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Dark and Disorderly by Bernita Harris

Dark and Disorderly by Bernita Harris

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Blurb:

Lillie St. Claire is a Talent, one of the rare few who can permanently dispatch the spirits of the dead that walk the earth. Her skills are in demand in a haunted country, where a plague of ghosts is becoming a civic nuisance.

Those skills bring her into conflict with frightened citizens who view Talents as near-demons. Her husband comes to see her as a Freak; so when Nathan dies after a car crash, she is relieved to be free of his increasingly vicious presence. Lillie expects to be haunted by Nathan's ghost, but not to become Suspect #1 for her husband's murder and reanimation.

But what's most surprising of all is the growing attraction between her and psi-crime detective John Thresher. He thinks that Lillie killed Nathan—and Nathan must agree, because his zombie is seeking revenge. Now she and Thresher must work together to solve her husband's murder—before his corpse kills her...


My impressions:
I spotted this book over at Carina Press webpage, and it caught my eye. But, it was summer and I never got around to buy it. Then, Kobo offered selected Carina press e-books for 0,99, and this was one of them. I snatched it up. Am I glad I bought it? Oh yes.

The opening line caught my attention. But what really reeled me in was the unique world. I love urban fantasy, but after awhile you get tired of the standard tropes. This book deals with the conflicts between humans and ghosts. That, combined with the riveting plot and the tension between the characters hooked me.

I will definitely read the next book in the series.



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