Everyday is the same ...

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #337

2012-02-23T14:20:00.001Z

Mistress, Mother... Wife? - Maggie Cox
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2011
ISBN: 9780263886276

My rating

From the back cover:

"Willing mistress...
Drawn to his dark aura, hotel worker Anna Bailey stepped out of her shell and cast aside her usual shyness for a night with magnificent Italian Dante Romano... But five years later her only reminder of Dante is her adorable daughter, Tia.
Dutiful bride...?
Dante's fought hard to get where he is today - but nothing compares to discovering he's the father of a child. Marrying Anna is the only option he sees to right the wrongs of the past...so he'll see her at the altar, willing or not..."

Weird how the last two books I read have titles in the same structure [something-comma-something-dot-dot-dot-something]. Must be a theme!

The hero Dante and the heroine Anna meet when Dante is staying at the hotel Anna works at. Dante is grieving after the death of his mother and re-evaluating they way he leads his life. Anna recognises the his sadness and approaches him. They end up spending a passionate and unforgettable night together, but Dante disappears the next day. Five years later, Anna has just learned the her employers are in financial trouble and she may lose her job, which will mean she will have difficulty providing for her daughter. Her worry is made even worse when the person coming consult about the future of the hotel turns out to be Dante. Coming back to the hotel reminds Dante of the feelings he experiences in Anna's arms, but was not expecting to find her still there. He realises that he feels the needs to apologise for the way he left her but his attempts to talk to Anna do not get very far. Anna doesn't know how to tell him that her daughter is his, and is especially worried about what his reaction might be.

This is very much a slow burning story, but I enjoyed it. One thing that is common in Maggie Cox's books is that there is always an aura of sadness about them, and that is the case here but it is not as all consuming as some of her other books.
I really enjoyed the opening scene, reading how and why the characters meet and connect. After that the story drags a little, but I found it interesting and honest.

This is a soft, almost sombre read, but one that is likeable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #336

2012-02-23T13:54:00.000Z

Stranded, Seduced... Pregnant - Kim Lawrence
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
ISBN: 9780263878653

My rating

From the back cover:

"From pure - to pregnant!
Lovely Neve Macleod's life is shrouded by scandal. The tabloids delight in branding her a scarlet widow, but in reality her marriage was for convenience. She's still a virgin, and a caring single stepmother - but no one wants to hear the truth...
That is until she finds herself stranded and snowbound with brooding tycoon Severo Constanza - an unlikely saviour. As the magnificent Italian comes to her rescue he knows nothing of her salacious past - just that she's pure at present!"

I bought this one, along with a few other Modern's, recently as they were on sale in the Kindle store.

The heroine Neve is trying to build a relationship with her teenage stepdaughter and ignore all the public scandal about her and her late husband's marriage. But her stepdaughter seems determined to hate her, and she ends up running off in the middle of a blizzard taking Neve's car with here. Neve impulsively jumps in the nearest car to go after her, and that turns out to be the hero Severo's car. Severo and Neve end up being stranded due to the snow and take shelter in a nearby empty house. Even though Severo thinks that Neve's actions were stupid and irresponsible, he can't help but be drawn to her seemingly innocent nature. While they are stranded, Neve and Severo end up acting on the desire between them but after they are rescues and Severo finds out exactly who Neve is he thinks she is a gold digger and wants nothing else to do with her. Neve goes back to her life and tries to forget all about Severo, their brief affair, and her humiliation but when she discovers she is pregnant she had to work up the courage to see him again.

I had a difficult time deciding what to rate this book; I liked it, but there are certain elements of it that I found quite frustrating. The plot itself is interesting and kept me reading. But the heroine at times acts childish and whines, a lot. Plus she lets the overly dominant hero boss her around so much - I really don't like heroines like this.

However, I did like the story. It's an OK read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #335

2012-02-23T09:18:00.001Z

Girl on a Diamond Pedestal - Maisey Yates
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890525

My rating

From the back cover:

"Never been kissed.
Noelle was once the girl who had everything. Until the piano prodigy fell from grace. Destitute and desperate, she’s forced to accept billionaire Ethan Grey’s convenient proposal.
Ethan wants revenge – all he needs is Noelle’s signature on the marriage certificate. Yet his carefully composed façade cracks in the face of her innocent attempts at seduction.
Noelle’s only ever felt love and excitement whilst at her beloved piano – yet now her traitorous body craves the white-hot passion ignited by Ethan’s skilled touch. But will he ever see her as more than a means to an end?"

I have been looking forward to reading this latest book from Maisey Yates - out on general sale here in the UK in March or available now on the M&B UK website now. I simply adore the cover a title!

The heroine Noelle's life is on hold; her music career appears to be over, her child stardom has faded, her controlling mother has left along with all of Noelle's money, and now she is about to lose her home. She meets the hero Ethan when he comes to look at her house, he asks her to come to his office the nest day and she is shocked when he asks her to marry him. Ethan is looking for revenge on his playboy father wanting to take the family business from him but he can only do it if he is married. And marrying Noelle will be poetic justice considering his father had a very public extra-marital affair with Noelle's mother. Noelle agrees, not really knowing what else to do, and as they begin to make their (pretend) relationship known to society they also get to know one another. One thing Ethan wasn't counting on is Noelle being the complete opposite of what he was expecting, and not only does he want to help the lost, unconfirmed girl that she is, he also fiercely desires her. Noelle knows that whatever she and Ethan have between them, it is only temporary, but she wants to have everything he will give her and hopes that she won't lose her heart in the bargain.

Another really enjoyable book from Maisey Yates. The plot is enjoyable and well executed, and both characters are engaging. I especially liked the way the heroine was 'drawn', her traits that could come across as a little shallow and whiny actually fit what she would be like with her background. As the story progressed the heroine was 'finding herself', and I found that really enjoyable to read. The hero is a good character if a little arrogant, but it works.
My only complaint is that the revenge theme did feel a little flat, and I didn't like the fact that the heroine was being punished for things she had no control over. However the hero makes up for it with a nice bit of grovelling.

Overall, this is a solid and pleasing read.

Xx

Where I work...

2012-02-22T12:26:00.000Z

I grew up in an area where there are a lot of well off families, and large houses. My family was not one of them and we lived in a small three bedroom house and since there were four of us we didn't have the much coveted spare room/study that some of my school friends used to talk about. Ever since I have been an adult I have wanted, eventually, to have my very own study! When my husband and I first started looking to buy a house we were living in a modern [read: small] two bedroom flat, and the spare room doubled as a study but since it was stuffed full of books/DVD's/CD's/crap there was no room for a desk, so my one desire was to have a dedicated room that I could work in (at the time I was studying and had to keep all my text books in a cardboard box!). The house we bought, and still live, in has three bedrooms, but the third bedroom would only suit someone of borrower-size so I set my sights on that as my study! In fact it was the very first room that I decorated, and I love it!

So here it is -

Sorry, blurry photo. It was a bright day!

Sitting in front of the window is something I really like about this room. My big wall planner is this years attempt at not having to buy a diary! I like working on a laptop as I can move it easily, although this one is nearly 4 years old now, but I like it as it is a wide screen one and has a lovely big screen, it works (touch wood!) so I am loathe to replace it!

My bookcases are my favourite part of the room, I love just sitting looking at them! We have a lot of books! We have recently had a clear out, a couple of weeks prior to this photo there were stacks on the floor as well!

Any writer (and most people!) probably has a bit of an addiction to notepads and I certainly have, as well as a bit of an admitted klepto problem with post-it note pads - where I used to work they gave us packs to use at work, but they would often make their way home with me! I stack them up on the windowsill as 1, I don't know where else to put them and 2, They are within easy reach if I suddenly need them!

There are more notepads of the larger variety as well as many, many, many pens (you can never have enough!) under my desk. Note the ridiculously large Reese's mug that my husband bought but couldn't drink anything out of because it is so big!

This box is something that I found in my parents loft when I was packing to go away to university, and my dad told me it was something he had made when he was at school, I asked if I could have it. He put a padlock latch on for me so I could keep stuff secure and I have had it with me ever since, it's a little more scratched and worn now. I keep a lot of craft stuff in it, it also doubles up as a great foot rest when I'm sitting at my desk!

My Coldplay Whatever it Takes mug is one of my favourite mugs, and it is the only mug I use when I'm at my desk! I am a creature of habit. By the way, I liked Coldplay before they commercialised the crap out of them!!

Both my husband and I are art/coffee table book lovers, we have tons of them! Damn heavy and awkward size things, but I am obsessed with them, plus they are very inspiring!

I try to aim to spend at least 3 hours everyday in my study writing or working, usually in the morning after my husband has left for work. I will often do casual writing (such as reviews, research, idea scribbles) with pen and paper sitting on the sofa in the evenings. As much as I would like to say that I write everyday, it would be a lie. But although I may not get any words down I always try to do something - be it a bit of research, or a read through etc. And always in my study! This works for me, I have high distraction levels so I find it near impossible to work where other things are going on.

I know I am lucky to have my own space to work, I would be upset if I had to lose it (you know if 'baby' happens) but I would deal with it! The kitchen table - when I have one again - would become my new best friend until I could have my daydreamed-about garden office built!

Hope you liked the peak at my working space.

Where (and when) do you work?

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #334

2012-02-21T09:41:00.001Z

The Secret She Can't Hide - India Grey
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373129973

N.B. The UK title of this book is 'Her Last Night of Innocence'.

My rating

From the back cover:

"World-famous racing driver Cristiano Maresca "always" spent the night before a race in the arms of a beautiful woman...
One night three years ago that woman was Kate Edwards, and her time with Cristiano awakened her to unimaginable pleasure. But the following day the untamable Cristiano had a near-fatal crash...and then Kate discovered she was expecting his baby....
Now Monte Carlo is set to celebrate Cristiano's return to the track. Shivering with nerves, Kate braves the paparazzi to find the man who set her body aflame--and tell him her scandalous secret....Italy's most notorious playboy has a love child"

For some random reason the last two books I have read both have heroes called Cristiano. Odd!

The heroine Kate hears that racing driver Cristiano, the hero, is about to return after a long recuperation following a very bad crash a few years back, and she knows that now is the time to tell him that their glorious night together resulted in their son. However when she finally gets the courage to approach him Cristiano doesn't know who she is, so she decides not to bother. Cristiano has no memory of Kate but senses something between them so, desperate to regain parts of his lost memory, he goes to her and asks her to spend some time away with him. When they are together, Kate is reminded of just how close they became in that one night they had together and tries to help Cristiano remember, but she can't quite work up the nerve to tell him about their son. However, when she has to leave after an emergency back home Cristiano finds out the truth quite by accident. Following her back to England, Cristiano wants to get to know his son, as well as work out if the passion between Kate and he can give them a future together.

Wow, this is a gorgeous book, I loved it. There really is something special about India Grey that makes her books so wonderful. They dazzle. And dazzle, this book does.
My heart broke at times for the hero and heroine - they so desperately wanted to be together but so many things conspired against them. The passion and emotion in their relationship is intense and written with such heart. I literally couldn't put this book down, it has everything; sorrow, joy, passion, anger etc. And, it is brilliant.

I can't recommend it (and India Grey's other books) enough.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #333

2012-02-21T09:23:00.000Z

One Night in Rome - Cathy Williams
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373130368

N.B. The UK title of this book is 'The Italian's One-Night Love-Child' - I much prefer the NA title!!

My rating

From the back cover:

"After seeing Bethany Maguire's captivating curves in a tantalizing silk dress, Cristiano De Angelis indulges in one night of passion with this beauty. A string of society heiresses have graced his bed—what difference will one more make? Except virgin Bethany is no socialite. She was just house-sitting a glamorous apartment when she gave in to temptation and tried on one of the owner's designer dresses!
She doesn't belong in Cristiano's jet-set life, and when she discovers she's pregnant she flees. But their night of sizzling Italian passion has had an unexpected result—this famously guarded billionaire won't let her go that easily!"

I went on a bit of a Harlequin ebook story spree this past weekend!

The heroine Bethany and the hero Cristiano meet when Cristiano comes by the apartment that Bethany is house sitting. Cristiano thinks that she is the owner and Bethany doesn't correct him, hoping that he will leave once he has done the task he came there for. However Cristiano asks her out to dinner instead, which then leads to a whirlwind affair when Cristiano, totally entranced by Bethany, whisks her away on holiday for a couple of weeks. It all ends when Bethany runs out on him and he finds out that she isn't the person he thought she was. Months later he has finally tracked her down only to have his plans for telling her exactly what he thinks of her ruined when he discovers she is pregnant. When he insists they marry, Bethany refuses as she won't marry for anything but love. Instead she moves to London to be nearer to Cristiano where they slowly begin to get to know one another, properly this time.

I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book! I really liked the lead in and how the characters first meet - yes, it's a little silly, but it is also quite quirky and charming, as well as different. The heroine is a good character, I especially enjoyed the fact that she stood up for herself and didn't let the hero railroad her into anything. Plus her habit of telling little white lies to try and save face was quite fun! The hero is your standard Presents alpha-male, but he is solidly written.

The whole book was quite sweet and fun, but still with plenty of passion. Enjoyable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #332

2012-02-21T09:05:00.000Z

Enticed by His Forgotten Lover - Maya Banks
Harlequin Desire
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373731206

N.B. This is a North American release.

My rating

From the back cover:

"'Have we met?'
Answer: a right hook Because Bryony Morgan pulls no punches. Even when she's very pregnant and facing down the father of her unborn child. She fell for wealthy hotelier Rafael de Luca when he courted her for her beachfront real estate. Then he disappeared. Now, she's in New York for answers--and she won't accept a brush-off.
But selective amnesia after a crash has Rafael puzzled. How could he ever forget a combustible beauty like Bryony? Solution: return to the island where they met, and relive the unforgettable nights in question--until he remembers everything..."

I bought this book recently, I have read some of Maya Banks's non category books and while the more racier ones are not really my cup of tea I do like her style, and I like the Desire line, so...

The hero Rafe is trying to go about his life business as usual without any of his business associates realising that his recent plane crash has left him with amnesia for the preceding months. During a business gathering he is approached by the heroine Bryony, and left stunned when her response to his query whether he knows her or not is a punch to the face. Bryony is upset to learn about Rafe's condition, especially that the time he has lost is the time he spent with her. Rafe doesn't know what to think of Bryony's assertions that they had fallen in love with one another, but he wants to believe her. In hope of regaining his memory, Rafe asks Bryony to take him back to her home, the place they had supposedly fallen in love. Although nothing seems to trigger his memory, Rafe begins to realise that Bryony is very special and he wants to have a future with her and their child regardless of what went on before. But he also can't shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen.

I was surprised by how much I liked this story. The amnesia trope is something I wanted to roll my eyes at, but I have to say that this is done very well. I couldn't get enough of the really fun writing style that Maya Bank's has, it has a nice casual style and the dialogue, especially the heroine's, made me smile. This reminded me a little of the older Desire books that are much more down to earth than some of the more recent Desire's have been.
The pace and flow of the story is perfect, and the conflict is weaved in very subtly, as I was reading I felt that something wash going to come crashing down at any minute, and that made it very compelling reading.
The reasons behind the characters actions are well explained, with plenty of drama (in a good way).

This book manages to be both intense and heart warming, I really liked it! I look forward to reading the other books in this mini-series.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #331

2012-02-20T13:29:00.000Z

Special Agent's Perfect Cover - Marie Ferrarella
Harlequin Romantic Suspense
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373277582

N.B. This is a North American release.

My rating

From the back cover:

"'What have they done to you?'
Cold Plains, Wyoming, should be a ghost town. Then why are its once-decaying streets gleaming? And why are there only beautiful, smiling Stepford-like wives in those streets? Hawk Bledsoe wants to know…because the woman who broke his heart seems to be one of them.
Carly Finn is stunned to see Hawk return to town as an FBI agent tracking a serial killer. Hawk doesn't know why she once ended their romance so cruelly—or how much Carly sacrificed for him. But now the two must risk their lives to expose the town's monstrous secret. And danger only revives the desire both try their hardest to resist…."

I have read a lot of Marie Ferrarella's books in the past, but not in this challenge, and I like her style so I thought I would give this one a go.

The hero Hawk is assigned to investigate the murders of five women who all have the small Wyoming town of Cold Plains in common. Unfortunately for Hawk he is also originally from there, and hasn't been back since he left ten years ago. When he arrives, he is shocked to see the town completely changed, with it's inhabitants seemingly brainwashed. Even more surprising for Hawk is that Carly, the heroine, is still living there and seems to be one of the brainwashed. Carly is just as shocked to see Hawk back in town, she has never forgotten him and the love they used to share, or her heartbreak when she had to end their relationship. Carly is desperate to get out of town, she knows that is has been taken over by a cult-like group, but she can't leave her sister, whom has become totally involved. As Hawk investigates, not that he gets anywhere, he also keeps an eye on Carly and pretty soon he has worked out that she is pretending to be involved and they are acting on the passion and love that still between them, despite the fact that this puts both of them in even more danger.

This is the first book in the mini-series 'Perfect, Wyoming' about a town taken over by a cult called the 'Devotees' (think 'The Movementarians' from the Simpsons episode Joy of Sect!). I love cult story lines, so when I found these books I immediately bought them!
Uh, overall this isn't a bad story, and it is a nice introduction to the series. The hero and heroine work well together, and the UST between them plus the issues from their past relationship are both portrayed well and adds to the overall tense moments. The scene where the heroine removes a bullet from the hero is just really stupid, and annoyed me somewhat to be honest! What bothered me most about this book is that the hero didn't seem to actually do much investigating, or it wasn't 'shown' anyway, and this left the story feeling a little hollow.

But, I enjoyed this book. There is some good suspense parts, and the relationship is well written and believable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #330

2012-02-20T13:07:00.000Z

Undone by His Touch - Annie West
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890594

My rating

From the back cover:

"Revealed in the darkness...
Cast into a world of black, Declan Carstairs is a man in torment. Consumed by guilt, he sees no way out of the darkness his world has become. Only one thing drives him - finding the woman who caused his brother's death, and the accident that took his sight.
Housekeeper Chloe Daniels refuses to pity her devastatingly gorgeous boss, but treating him as the strong, capable man he is soon proves dangerous. As Chloe falls deeper under Declan's spell, awakened by his touch, she forgets all about the secret she keeps that may destroy them both…"

This is Annie West's latest book - out in April - and I have been looking forward to reading it.

The hero Declan is still haunted by reminders of his brother's suicide and his own climbing fall, which left him injured and blind. He meets his housekeeper Chloe, the heroine, for the first time when she returns after a sabbatical. Chloe is initially nervous about returning after a difficult experience with Declan's brother, but with him now gone she feels more comfortable. Declan feels surprisingly content around Chloe, she doesn't treat him differently due to his blindness, and they become friends. But Declan also begins to feel much more for Chloe, including a fierce desire for her that Chloe reciprocates. Just as Declan begins to look to a future with Chloe in it, he discovers that she is the woman he believes drove his brother to suicide.

I very much enjoyed this book. Annie West always does something a little different to her books to really make them stand out, and this book is no exception. The hero's blindness is used to it's full potential, his heightened other senses are very vividly described. There is also plenty of emotion and feelings given from his POV, which really makes the book a bit of a roller-coaster ride of emotion.
The plot is interesting and very well written, and in my opinion, it is also quite refreshingly unpredictable.

Definitely worth a read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #329

2012-02-20T12:47:00.000Z

Marriage on the Rebound - Michelle Reid
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 1998
ISBN: 9780373119738
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459262300

My rating

From the back cover:

"Instant bridegroom...
Shaan had been jilted! She'd been left at the altar by Piers Danvers...but Rafe Danvers was waiting to step right into his half brother's shoes. Older, darker, stronger and the head of the Danvers business empire, it was Rafe who had persuaded Piers to abandon Shaan. Now, with the same ruthless determination, Rafe insisted that she become his bride instead.
Dazed, Shaan accepted his proposal, but she was also confused: until this moment, Rafe had acted as if he despised her. Suddenly he wanted to proclaim her to the world as his wife and, behind closed doors, to have her in his bed!"

Another one from the Treasury line.

It is the heroine Shaan's wedding day, but instead of being newly married she is in emotional termoil after he would-be- brother-in-law Rafe, the hero, tells her that her fiance has left with other woman. Not really knowing what to do, Shaan let's Rafe take her away from all the confusion, but she is shocked out of her reverie when Rafe asks her to marry him instead. Shaan has always thought that Rafe disapproved of her, but he makes a good case for them both marrying in order to save face and for companionship. After they marry, Rafe takes Shaan to Hong Kong, their getting to know one another is tumultuous at best with neither of them knowing what the other one feels. However, there is an undeniable attraction between them and they act on it. Even though it seems like they are both in love with other people, Shaan and Rafe grow closer and closer, but Shaan fears that their fragile relationship won't survive once they are back to their real lives.

I expected to like this book, but not as much as I actually did! This is a brilliant book - one of the best of Michelle Reid's books that I have read. Every thing in this book is very subtle, and it totally works. I adored the hero, I knew straight away that there was something else behind his alpha male veneer - the little glimpses of his POV that Michelle Reid adds in really whet your appetite and leave you wanting to read on to find out more.
Even though elements of this story are a little over the top and clichéd, I think that the love story between the hero and heroine is believable. There is so much emotion and intensity to this story, and it is perfectly executed.

Very, very good.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #328

2012-02-20T09:32:00.000Z

Forsaking All Others - Susanne McCarthy
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 1996
ISBN: 9780373118502
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459276826

My rating

From the back cover:

"In name only...
'You're the woman who stood at the altar with my cousin not more than a few hours ago, vowing to forsake all others. You didn't manage to keep it up very long, did you?'
Leo Ratcliffe had kissed his cousin's new bride and discovered that whatever reasons Maddy had for marrying, love didn't enter into it. Even on her wedding day she had wanted another man—Leo! But he hadn't given Maddy a chance to reveal the truth—that she was marrying his cousin only to forget Leo's own impending marriage....
Now Maddy was widowed and Leo was still single. But instead of the love affair she had dreamed about, all he was offering was a marriage of convenience: sexual satisfaction and heartbreak guaranteed!"

Another book from the Treasury line. I don't think I have read any books by Susanne McCarthy before.

The heroine Maddy sees the hero Leo for the first time in a few years when she returns to her former marital home after he husband's death. Maddy knows that her husband's family, especially his cousin Leo, never approved of her marriage or her eventually separations and she expects that Leo will not make things easy for her, but all Maddy wants is for her son's inheritance to be preserved. Learning that Leo is co-trustee with her makes her worried, and she is stunned when he asks her to marry him. Maddy thinks he is only asking in order to get some form of revenge against her, and his actions only seem to confirm this fact. Maddy refuses at first, she has always been in love with Leo and her heartbreaks at his very obvious dislike of her. But eventually she has to agree, and Leo quickly shows her exactly what he wants from her and even though she shares the desire between them, Maddy knows he will never love her.

This is an interesting and well executed plot, I enjoyed it. There is a lot of chemistry between the hero and heroine - this is well used through the entire book. This is very much 'classic' in style - the hero is a little too dominant, but it works. The back story between the hero and heroine is well detailed and adds to the conflict, but it is too info-dumpy at first.

Overall though, this is a nice easy story with a good flow and plenty of emotion.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #237

2012-02-20T08:50:00.000Z

Forbidden to His Touch - Natasha Tate
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890419

My rating

From the back cover:

"Trapped by desire for the one woman he can't touch...
Rafael Chaves is a man tortured by his gut-wrenching past and tempted by a future he dares not even dream about. Knowing he'll never deserve the only woman he's ever wanted, Rafael will make sure she stays as far away from him as possible.
But when Sophia Turino, daughter of the man who raised him from the gutter, stands before him seven years later she's even harder to resist... confident, successful, and as intoxicatingly beautiful as ever. It's time for Rafael to obliterate his darkly powerful infatuation..."

This is Natasha Tate's third book, I really liked both of her previous books so I was looking forward to reading this one.

The heroine Sophia and the hero Rafael haven't seen one another in seven years, ever since Sophia left her father's vineyard in order to live her own life. Rafael has never really forgiven Sophia for leaving, it hurt both her father - the man whom had taken Raf in as a child - and it hurt him. He had always wanted Sophia but never allowed himself to give in to his need for her. Sophia is nervous about returning, not only does she have to bury her father but also see Raf again. Their initial meeting is fraught with tension and Sophia quickly returns to her seemingly safe life only for Raf to come see her not long after, telling her that she must come back to help him run the vineyard. Sophia refuses to let Raf bully her into anything and manages to assert herself back at the vineyard. But Raf stays away from her, afraid that she will make him lose his precious control, and this only ends up hurting Sophia. Especially when after a night of blistering passion between them Raf retreats even further away from her.

Wow, what a roller coaster of a book! This is a wonderful story of forbidden love and all the emotions that go with it, and it is very intense to read. There is so much tension - sexual, animosity, misunderstanding, etc - between the hero and heroine, I really couldn't see how they would ever get their happy ending, which in my opinion makes it even more special when it does happen. Natasha Tate has written such a beautifully dark story, and it is absolutely flawless. The hero is tortured, extremely tortured, and this is done brilliant. I felt this was very much his story, and I couldn't help but fall for him.
The Californian wine country setting is beautifully described, the author paints a vivid picture that really sets the tone of the whole story.

The book is fast paced, and draws you in from the start as well as being jam-packed with emotion and passion. Thoroughly recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #326

2012-02-20T08:20:00.000Z

Return of the Moralis Wife - Jacqueline Baird
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890570

My rating

From the back cover:

"A virgin to sweeten the deal
Infamous playboy Orion Moralis believes in lust, not marriage - until with one innocent sigh the daughter of a business rival turns his world on its head. Selina Taylor is achingly pure, and as he captures her lips Orion knows he must possess her! But their marriage is short-lived...
Six years since Selina was discarded like a used plaything she's older - and definitely wiser when it comes to sexy, powerful men. But trapped on Orion's luxury yacht she finds memories of the past return to haunt her... With the bad comes the oh-so-good - and soon she can't resist the sensual pull between them..."

This is the latest offering from Jacqueline Baird - out in April here in the UK.

The hero Rion sees the heroine Selina, his ex-wife, for the first time in sex years when he arrives to attend her grandfather's funeral. He immediately realise that he still fiercely desires her, and with his knowledge of what is in her grandfather's will Rion decides to finally get his revenge on her betrayal. Selina is surprised and a little perturbed by Rion's arrival, she hasn't seen him since he threw her out of his life and still remembers her heartbreak at both the end of their marriage and the discover of the true reason he married her. Rion blackmails Selina into spending a two week holiday with him on his yacht, for his pleasure. At first Selina tries to fight against the desire that is still between them, but eventually gives into her last chance to be with Rion. Rion is surprised by the changes in Selina and his ruthless revenge scheme quickly turns into much more, but Selina has her own life now and refused to give Rion her heart again.

When I started reading this book I wasn't enjoying it - it seemed to have a few too many unappealing elements - but I ended up quite liking it. The heroine makes this book worthwhile. She starts off being a bit of the wounded party, but really grows into a strong and intelligent woman. She was also very honest and forward thinking, I particularly liked her attitude when faced with the possibility of the short-term affair with the hero, thinking why shouldn't she enjoy it! The hero learned his lesson in the end and there was a nice bit of grovelling.

Overall, this is a well written book. I enjoyed it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #325

2012-02-17T09:15:00.001Z

Matchmaking Baby - Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 1996
ISBN: 9780373166138
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459274723

My rating

From the back cover:

"A Baby On Her Doorstep
The towheaded toddler in the pretty pink stroller came with a blankie, a teddy and a note. Unfortunately, she didn't come with instructions. Like who she was or who her parents were.
As concierge of Bride's Bay, Joanie Griffin assumed little Emily was a guest's child who needed baby-sitting. But the baby arrived at the worst time - just when her former flame showed up, two years and three months after their breakup.
Now she'd never get rid of Steve Lantz. Because when Joanie picked up the blue-eyed baby, she called her "Mommy" - and Steve assumed he was "Daddy""

This is another book that is from the Harlequin Treasury line (I bought a lot of them, yes!), I bought this one as it was recommended by a user on Goodreads.

The hero Steve arrives at the hotel resort where the heroine Joanie works to give a speech as part of a conference, but he is also there to try and win Joanie back. Joanie is not willing to listen to Steve, he broke her heart when she found another woman in his bed, but he is persistent in trying to get her to talk to, and believe, him. When a baby is abandoned outside Joanie's room, Steve jumps to the wrong conclusion believing that the baby is Joanie's and his, despite Joanie's almost constant denials. Joanie has no choice but to care for baby Emily while searching for whoever left her, and with Steve helping with the baby and their proximity, it brings them closer and closer. Steve desperately wants to be with Joanie again and hopes their new found closeness will make her trust, and love, him again.

This is a very sweet and charming story that I really enjoyed reading. I believed in the love between the hero and heroine, and it was so refreshing to have a hero being the one who is so open about his feelings. Their relationship has real growth within the story, and it was really satisfying to read how the two of them slowly worked through their issues.
As for the abandoned baby part of the plot - well, it is a little far-fetched (I mean, surely if a baby was abandoned, Police and Social Services would come storming over!) but, it is a charming little touch and quite enjoyable.

An endearing and very romantic read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #324

2012-02-17T08:46:00.001Z

A Deal at the Altar - Lynne Graham
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890563

My rating

From the back cover:

"Her indecent proposal!
Having pulled himself up from the streets of Athens, Sergios Demonides thought he had seen it all. Then Beatriz Blake walked into his office and asked him for a marriage of convenience!
Independent, proud and unadorned, Beatriz is a far cry from the usual glamorous women who grace his bed. But Sergios doesn't need another trophy - he needs a mother for his late cousin's children.
The overlooked Blake heiress and the ruthless billionaire strike a deal. But she doesn't read the small print - that sees them sharing a bed!"

This is the latest from Lynne Graham (out in April) and a follow on from her last book - Roccanti's Marriage Revenge.

The heroine Beatriz is forced into approaching the her Sergios about a marriage of convenience - her sister had originally meant to marry him - otherwise her father will stop all his financial support for Beatriz's disabled mother. At first Sergios is uninteresting in Bee, as she is nothing like his usual type of woman, but he realised that she is exactly the kind of woman he needs to help him raise his late cousin's three children. Sergios expects to be able to marry Bee and continue with his life as usual and also expects her to do as he says, but he soon realises that Bee is far from amenable. Bee doesn't like the situation she is in but knows it is best for her mother as well as the three children she has become a mother to. When circumstance forces Sergios and Bee to be closer than they expected, Sergios begins to see that he is wildly attracted to Bee and she means so much more to him than he first thought. But Bee is determined to keep her heart, knowing that Sergios doesn't ever plan on losing his freedom.

I was so hoping that I would like this book, but... oh, I really didn't. And that is mainly down to one fact - the hero had a mistress (yuk, hate that word!) all the way through the book. Regardless of the fact that it was revealed eventually that he hadn't actually been with her since marrying the heroine, that his future cheating was almost glorified throughout the book was really, really unappealing. This kind of thing is not, and never will be, something that appeals to the 'romantic fantasy' that we read romance novels for.
Needless to say, I didn't like the hero. I wanted to like the heroine, and I did - she was very fiery and independent up to a point, but I found her overlooking the whole mistress thing, as well as the fact that she gave up her job, and let the hero give her a 'make over' a little hard to swallow.

Throughout reading this book my mind kept saying "no, no, no, no..."! Not for me, is this book! YMMV.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #323

2012-02-16T09:38:00.000Z

The Devil and Miss Jones - Kate Walker
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890471

My rating

From the back cover:

"Martha Jones has never taken a risk in her whole life. Until the day she runs out on her wedding and succumbs to the magnetism of a man she has only just met! A man she knows only as Diablo.
Lone wolf Carlos Ortega won't promise Miss Jones more than one searing-hot night. Yet Carlos is shocked by Martha's sweet innocence. This runaway bride is a virgin, and it seems the repercussions of their sizzling encounter could last forever..."

The cover and title of this book are really great, and I was looking forward to reading this one.

The hero Carlos and the heroine Martha are both running away something - Martha from her wedding after discovering her fiancé cheating, and Carlos from the shock and hurt of finding out the truth of his parentage. They meet when Carlos finds Martha out walking in the rain, still in all her wedding finery, and stops to help her. There is an immediate spark between them, which neither of them truly understands, but each needing comfort they succumb to the desire between them. However, afterwards Carlos is plagued by doubts and Martha leaves having her confidence crushed for the second time that day, wanting never to see Carlos again. Four months later, she is going back on that vow and is at Carlos's family home waiting for him to arrive so she can tell him that she is pregnant, not knowing how he might react.

This is a very passionate and intense book, and I really enjoyed reading it. The hero is very appealing; he is perfectly alpha yet also kind. The heroine is also a great character - I liked her spirit. There is lots of chemistry between these two, and it is brilliant portrayed by the author.
The story takes place over four months, but the hero and heroine probably only spend twenty-ish hours together - all of it is brilliantly written, but I had a hard time believing in the final declarations of love. However, Kate Walker's wonderful storytelling makes it work, and it is a fantastic story.

Overall, this is a charming and sizzling book, definitely worth a read!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #322

2012-02-16T09:11:00.000Z

The Good, the Bad, and the Wild - Heidi Rice
Mills & Boon RIVA
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263892963

My rating

From the back cover:

"One of the Good Guys?
Nick Delisantro is famous – for scripts, for his looks, and above all for his ruthless bad-boy charm. Eva, on the other hand, has spent her life being an overlooked wallflower! Now she’s got to meet with Mr Tall, Dark and Brooding or her only chance of promotion is over…
Nick can’t stop staring at the mysterious blushing girl who’s dressed like a vixen but frozen under his gaze like a rabbit in the headlights… He can’t wait to see what’s behind the innocent front! But Nick’s about to get far more than he’d bargained for – not only does Eva have the key to his secret past, but there’s nothing more dangerously addictive than a good girl going wild…"

The fabulous Heidi Rice kindly sent me a copy of this book - thank you so much, Heidi! I love the title of this book, and couldn't wait to read it...

The heroine Eva is nervously waiting for the hero Nick to arrive so she will finally be able to talk to him. Eva works for an ancestry research company, and has tracked down Nick as the grandson of a very important client. But as soon as Nick arrives and they see each other, all of Eva's planned introduction flies out of her head. Nick is more than a little intrigued by Eva, and they end up spending a very passionate night together. However, Nick throws her out the next morning after discovering the real reason she approached him. Eva is humiliated, heartbroken, and fired over her actions with Nick but a couple of weeks later learns that he has agreed to travel to Italy to meet his grandfather, providing she goes with him. Nick has no interest in actually getting to know his grandfather, or so he tries to tell himself, but he does want Eva, badly. Once in Italy though, Nick finds he is not so sure of himself and Eva notices, which quickly turns their red hot fling into much more.

I was really blown away by this book, it is amazing. There are so many different layers in this book that create such a maelstrom of moods. The hero and heroine fit together like, erm, well I can't think of a good analogy but you get the idea! For me this felt different from Heidi Rice's last couple of books, but it is just as brilliantly executed. There is less dialogue but this is replaced by brooding and angst that really works within the story. I felt the hero and heroine went on a journey - both individually and together - and that, for me, makes this such a riveting read.

This book sparkles with passion, emotion, and discovery. It has become my favourite of all Heidi's [fabulous] books!

A must-read!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #321

2012-02-16T08:42:00.000Z

Mine Until Morning - Samantha Hunter
Harlequin Blaze
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373796243

N.B. This is a North American release.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Tessa Rose is intoxicating to bodyguard Jonas Berringer. But not simply because she has an intimate knowledge of aphrodisiac scents. Nor is it because she's forbidden fruit: a client, the boss's daughter. Though both things help....
But Jonas thinks he has nothing to offer Tessa, not after a moment of lost focus costs Jonas his sight. But when Tessa and Jonas find themselves alone during a blackout, they discover endless temptations in the dark. Until morning, they'll just have to trust their other, heightened senses to see them through...."

I have had this book on my recommendations list for ages, but it has not yet been released over here. Samantha Hunter very kindly sent me over a copy - Thank you so much, Sam!

The hero Jonas is still struggling to come to terms with his recent, albeit temporary, blindness when he is visited by the heroine Tessa. Jonas was injured whilst employed to protect Tessa, but their mutual attraction for one another caused him to be distracted on the job. He blames himself for everything, but is also angry at Tessa as he believes she was using him. Tessa wants to make it up to him but Jonas refuses, and this hurts her as she really thought that they had something together. When a storm hits causing a blackout over the city, Jonas has to call Tessa for help - and they end up helping each other as well as finally acting on the passion between them. They each know there is more between them than just lust, but Jonas thinks he has nothing to offer Tessa, as well as the fact that he knows she will feel betrayed when she finds out the real reason he is there.

Once I got over my initial shock that the characters were already having sex only 10 pages in (don't worry, it was a dream! Even Blaze's don't move that fast!), I really enjoyed this book. I was intrigued by the idea of the blind hero, and thought this was executed really well - the descriptions of the hero's other heightened senses were very evocative. I especially want some of that honey dust now - for my skin, not for anything else, you understand! I'll be honest and say that I could have done without the hero's recovery happening that very same night - it is a little bit cheesy.
As expected there is a lot of sizzle in this book, and it works! Although, the scene in the subway car was a little, er, icky and I found it a bit uncomfortable to read.

The story is fast paced with a nice blend of fun, emotion, and angst. Well worth a read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #320

2012-02-16T08:23:00.000Z

Not Forgiven, Never Forgotten - Elizabeth Power
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373130375

N.B. The UK title of this book is 'For Revenge or Redemption?'

My rating

From the back cover:

"A reckoning…
Years ago, wealthy socialite Grace Tyler humiliated Seth and almost destroyed his family. Now the former boatyard hand is a multimillionaire, and he's out to settle a long-overdue score. He'll take Grace's business and her body.
A seduction!
Except Seth hasn't reckoned on the desire between them burning him every bit as fiercely as it consumes Grace!
A redemption?
He's come back to prove Grace's guilt—but now it's Seth who needs to be redeemed. For Grace is more inexperienced than he expected…and she's expecting his baby!"

Another Presents! I love the title of this one.

The heroine Grace learns that her company has been involved in a hostile take over, and is shocked to discover that the person responsible is Seth, the hero, the man with whom she had a very passionate teenage love affair. Seeing Grace again reminds Seth of both the passion he once felt for her as well as the pain her betrayal caused. He is going to use the chance he has found to take over Grace's company to finally get revenged on her, and Grace knows this and accepts it knowing that her cruel actions when she was young were unforgivable. However, Seth is also unaware of just what happened to Grace after he left, things she has never forgotten, but he does realise that Grace is different to what he was expecting. The passion between them still burns brightly, and this gives them a second chance together, but with so much pain and secrets in their past neither of them can really trust the other.

This book had me absorbed from the very first page, it is packed full of emotion and passion, I couldn't stop reading! What is so great about this book, in my opinion, is that both the hero and heroine grow as characters, before and during the story. It really made the relationship feel three dimensional. The pain and loss each character had inside them made this a very poignant read, I really felt that they needed each other.

The writing is full of angst, passion, sympathy, as well as hope, and this makes the book very enjoyable.

Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #319

2012-02-14T09:54:00.000Z

The Shy Socialite - Lindsay Armstrong
Harlequin Presents Extra
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373528455

N.B. This is a North American release - the UK and Aus/NZ title is 'The Socialite and the Cattle King'.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Prim and proper socialite-turned-journalist Holly Harding is looking for her first big scoop. And what better topic than the infamous cattle king Brett Wyndham? But when Holly meets Brett she notices something inherently dangerous about the enigmatic billionaire, and she quickly finds her professional no-nonsense attitude slipping!
When their plane crashes in the middle of the Outback she is forced to rely on Brett for protection. How long can inexperienced Holly deny their sizzling attraction…?"

Another Presents. I have a confession to make... I actually got this book out from the library ages ago (when it came out here in the UK) and didn't realise that this was the same book, I really wish they wouldn't have different titles, it is very confusing. I never actually finished reading it, I got a couple of chapters in and wasn't enjoying it so I stopped reading it. Anyway, once I had started reading this one and realised my mistake I thought I would continue on with it, you know, perhaps I would like it this time...

The heroine Holly is trying to make a new life for herself away from the limelight of her previous society life, and has recently got a job as a journalist. Her first interview is with Brett, the hero, a well known yet very private Cattle Station owner. Brett hates publicity but agrees to an interview with Holly, sensing that she is different from many other women, he is also very attracted to her. Holly is not used to male attention and is flustered around Brett, but when they are forced into making and emergency lading in the Australian Outback she has to rely on him. As they try and find shelter and help, Brett and Holly get to know one another and the feelings for one another that started out as desire soon turns into much more.

The descriptions of the Outback setting are so vividly portrayed that it is such a shame that I found this book so boring! I found that the story was OK, but manages to be both dull and unbelievable - the crash and everything could have been made really exciting, but just ended up dragging. The relationship and desire between the hero and heroine seemed a little forced in, in my opinion.

This book just didn't work for me, and it left me disappointed and bored. YMMV, of course!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #318

2012-02-14T09:29:00.000Z

Princess from the Past - Caitlin Crews
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373130504

N.B. The above details refer to the North American release of this book.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Behind the imposing walls of the castle, free-spirited Bethany Vassal discovered that her whirlwind marriage to Prince Leo Di Marco was nothing like the fairy tale she'd imagined. Before long, the forgotten princess ran away, hoping the man she fell in love with would one day see sense and come and find her….
Marrying Bethany is the only reckless thing Leo has ever done, and now he is paying the price. The time has come for him to produce a royal heir—and Bethany must return to the very castle from which she fled!"

This is another Presents I bought recently.

The hero Leo and the heroine Bethany have been separated for three years when Bethany asks for a divorce. Leo had not been expecting the blow, and despite the separation he begins to realise that he doesn't want their marriage to end. He knows he made mistakes in their marriage after their whirlwind relationship, and didn't allow Bethany enough time to adjust to life as the wife of a prince, and now it is time to make it up to her. Bethany is disheartened when Leo tells her that their divorce has to be arranged in Italy, she knows that when it comes to Leo she is often blind sided by desire, she has spent the last three years rebuilding her confidence and is ready to move on with her life. When they are back in Italy, Leo immediately starts trying to win Bethany back, and she notices the changes Leo has made, as well as the effort he is making with her. The desire that drew them together in the first place is still alive and well between them, but Bethany is unsure about giving all of herself to their marriage again, fearing that she will only be left lonely and heartbroken again.

Royalty based romances are not really my cup of tea, and I only chose this as I really like Caitlin Crews's books. I did enjoy this book, but it didn't totally 'do it' for me. I really liked the plot, and the fact that the hero really wanted to make up for his past mistakes. The hero is a good character - he is a little bit too arrogant, but his love for the heroine is very believable. His attempts to win back the heroine is written beautifully, the story has plenty of passion and angst, as well as a bit of sparkle.

Well written and enjoyable, just not my personal favourite style of romances.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #317

2012-02-14T08:58:00.001Z

Trouble in a Pinstripe Suit - Kelly Hunter
Harlequin Presents Extra
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373528582

N.B. This is a North American release - UK and Aus/NZ title is 'Sleeping Partner'.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Restoring a dilapidated hotel doesn't come cheap, but Mia Fletcher doesn't want to accept financial help from Ethan Hamilton. This dangerously sexy businessman isn't someone who takes no for an answer, however, and soon their flirting turns into something more.…
Mia knows Ethan isn't a forever kind of guy, but she cannot resist taking what he has to offer by getting him out of his immaculate suit and into bed! Surely their explosive affair will burn itself out—unless Mia can tame his untouchable heart.… "

I bought this book recently with a bunch of other Harlequin Presents. I love this title!

The heroine Mia arrives on the island of Penang after learning that she has inherited a hotel from the mother she thought had died many years before. When she finds the rather dilapidated hotel, she is met by the hero Ethan, whom she discovers is the son of the man her mother had left her father, and her, for. Ethan knows that it is hard for Mia to find out the truth about her mother, and he wants to help her through it, but Mia refuses. Mia decides to try and renovate the hotel, and during the process learns a lot about the mother she never got the chance to know. And as much as she tries to ignore him, Mia can't deny the affect that Ethan has on her. She wants to hate him but the more time they spend together the more she falls for him. Ethan also realises that his feelings for Mia run deeper, especially seeing her strength as she comes to terms with everything, but he doesn't know if he can ever give her more.

This is a really fascinating book, and I enjoyed it. It has a nice blend of emotion and charm, and the writing is full of passion. The exotic setting is vividly portrayed and very evocative, but I got a little bored with all the myths and ghost stories after a while. The relationship between the hero and heroine felt very natural and full of spark, but I didn't quite understand the fact that the hero was the one who did most of the chasing, then changed his mind about what he wanted from the heroine - it came off as a little shallow.
The plot around the heroine's mother choosing a different life was emotional, and handled well by the author - it was written with a refreshing honesty that I really responded to.

Overall, an enjoyable book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #316

2012-02-14T08:38:00.000Z

Daddy Devastating - Delores Fossen
Mills & Boon Intrigue 2-in-1
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2011
ISBN: 9780263885064

My rating

From the back cover:

"For FBI special agent Russ Gentry, Julia Howell is nothing but trouble. First the Texas heiress blunders into his undercover operation to bring down a black-market kidnapping ring. Then she turns his life upside down with a single photograph.
Russ's connection with the beautiful baby girl in the photo is instant and absolute...and Julia finds herself falling for this man who stepped up when most would have turned and run. As bullets fly and their passion grows, Julia is convinced this devastatingly handsome protector will play an important role in an innocent baby's future. And in hers."

This is the second book in the Intrigue 2-in-1, as above.

The hero Russ is deep undercover trying to bring down an illegal baby-selling ring when the heroine Julia approaches him, jeopardising his cover. Julia has tracked down Russ as the father of her late cousin's baby, whom Julia is guardian of. Thinking on his feet to avoid his cover being blown when members of the ring meet him, Russ pretends that he and Julia are involved. He is forced into letting Julia know just what she has stepped into and Julia is more than a little shocked and scared. When she confronts Russ about the baby he denies ever meeting her cousin, and Russ realises that the father is actually his twin brother whom recently died. Although Russ is shocked by the news of his nephew, he also realises that he wants to be a part of the little boy's life. But first he needs to finish his assignment, and now Julia is involved. They are forced to spend time together, and this eventually leads to them falling for one another. However, Russ's dangerous life brings back painful memories for Julia but she is also able to confront her fears and realise that she wants to change her life as well as have a future with Russ and the baby.

This was pretty much like the previous book I just read (The Baby's Guardian) in that the suspense part of the story is very good, but the romance is really lacking. Speaking of the suspense part, while it was good and quite interesting there are a few holes in the plot that are a little difficult to ignore. Also, I found it hard to believe that the heroine would fall for, and sleep with, a man she only met a few days previously, when she has spent the last 10 years as a virtual recluse after an attack. It doesn't really work, in my opinion.

But, the book held my interest - it's OK. Awful title though!

Xx

A very uncomfortable day...

2012-02-10T11:09:00.000Z

I am sure any woman reading this will be able to understand completely what I am about to talk about in this post. And that is the dread monthly period, and how it can turn a regular day into feeling like hell and a normal woman into a crazy person! (Also, it's the day of the month my husband dreads as he gets the 'run to the shops' job, I have been told that buying ladies items is very embarrassing for a man!)

I'm talking about period pain.

Yesterday I had what can only be described as a completely wasted day and, you know, it is very frustrating when your whole schedule is pushed to one side because you can't really do much more than sitting around in pain and feeling very sorry for yourself.

I spent the majority of yesterday fidgeting in discomfort, my period pain is always in my lower back, and oddly my neck, and no matter what I tried I just could not get comfortable. I tried lying down on sofa, sitting up on sofa, laying in bed, I lasted a total of 10 minutes sitting at my desk before I was so uncomfortable that I had to go back to the sofa!

Last time I was in America I bought some over-the-counter medication specifically for period pain and other related symptoms, and they are fantastic at getting rid of the pain - it's really strong stuff - but the trouble is they make me so drowsy I lose a couple of hours being half asleep from it!

Isn't the whole thing just so damn inconvenient!

Anyway the whole thing made me think about the relation between period pain and writing - how when things aren't going right it starts as a little niggle and begins to get more and more uncomfortable until you begin to realise nothing is working! And that is a little of what I am going through at the moment with my current WIP.

What do you do when that niggle turns into something that can't be ignored or medicated, and the only solution seems like giving up and just doing nothing?

Should you delete the whole blasted thing and start again, or maybe take a break to get over the 'pain' and go back to it when your less frustrated, or just plough on and hope that it sorts itself out eventually?

My answer - to both the period pain and the writing pain - is taking a break. So that's what I am doing.

Sometimes we all need to learn that stepping away from a situation that seems hopeless can solve many dilemmas and refresh our whole outlook on things. The trouble with writing (and period pain) is that when things are bad it seems that nothing can get you out of that deep pit of despair, especially when others around you don't really understand, and sometimes the only solution is a bit of rest.

What do you do when everything gets too much and doing nothing seems a much better idea?

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #315

2012-02-10T10:29:00.000Z

The Baby's Guardian - Delores Fossen
Mills & Boon Intrigue 2-in-1
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2011
ISBN: 9780263885064

My rating

From the back cover:

"In the past twenty-four hours Sabrina Carr had been shot at, kidnapped and held hostage. As if being eight months pregnant wasn't stressful enough!
Now, after narrowly escaping the clutches of masked gunmen, Sabrina and her baby needed a protector. That's when hot Texas cop Shaw Tolbert came to her rescue. As the surrogate mother to his child, Sabrina couldn't help the sizzling attraction to Shaw that the danger stirred up...or the kiss that told her she meant more to him than she ever realized. With her attackers still on the loose, Sabrina's priority was keeping the baby safe. But how could she keep her cool when things were so hot?"

I bought this Intrigue 2-in-1 ages ago but forgot I even had it.

The hero Shaw is a cop and he is called to a hostage situation in a maternity unit. There are many heavily pregnant women begin held hostage, and Shaw's attempts to think of a way to get them out safely is hampered when he discovers one of the hostages is Sabrina, the heroin, whom is pregnant with his child. Sabrina is terrified by the threat against her and her unborn child, especially when the kidnapper's take her with them when they escape. She desperately hopes that Shaw manages to move past his guilt over his wife's death and Sabrina's pregnancy and comes to save her. Shaw does save her, and tries to keep her safe from the continued threat against her, and during the time they spend together Shaw begins to realise that his feelings for Sabrina run much deeper than just passion.

I liked this book, kind of! The suspense part of the plot is pretty much perfect; it is full of nail-biting tension and edge-of-seat excitement, which makes the story very fast paced. But the romance part is left severely lacking - it feels almost forced in. The hero and heroine didn't really have that much time together without something to do the suspense plot happening, so it was difficult to truly grasp, and believe, the developing relationship.

Overall, this is an OK book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #314

2012-02-10T10:08:00.000Z

His Penniless Beauty - Julia James
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2010
ISBN: 9780373129317

N.B. The above details refer to the North American release of this book.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Four years ago, Sophie loved Nikos Kazandros with all her heart. What she didn't know was that Nikos would take her virginity and then move on…
Now, not knowing where to turn for money, Sophie has taken a job she wouldn't normally have considered. But on her very first night things go disastrously wrong when she bumps into…Nikos. He's outraged to see how she's earning a living and knows he needs to stop her immediately. But the only way to do that is to keep her close and pay for her time…"

I am a big fan of Julia James's books, you probably know this by now!

The hero Nikos is at a party that he really doesn't want to be at when he sees Sophie, the heroine, dressed up like a tart and on the arm of a lecherous businessman. He is reminded of how Sophie and her innocence were once his, and now she seems anything but innocent, and his anger gets the better of him. Sophie is devastated to see Nikos for the first time since he abandoned her and her whole world had come crashing down. She especially hates that he has to see her now, in her lowest moment, acting as a sort-of escort in order to get the money she so desperately needs to keep her gravely ill father in a care home. Nikos only thinks that Sophie has become like every other avaricious woman, but can't stand the thought of her virtually prostituting herself and offers her money providing she leaves town for a little while. She accepts, which only makes Nikos think he is right about her however after she has gone he can't stop thinking about her or stay away. When the passion between them erupts Nikos wants to hate Sophie, but only ends up learning the truth about her situation and the role he played in ruining her life.

There is something about Julia James's overly dramatic stories that really appeal to me, and I very much enjoyed this one. The gradual retelling of the shared history between the hero and heroine is incorporated into the story perfectly, and really well written - the author really did show how both the characters felt about everything, so the conflict felt three dimensional. As usual in a Julia James book, there is that one great big misunderstanding, but you know what, that is what she does best and it works.

There book is over the top, and emotional yet very compelling. A great book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #313

2012-02-10T09:35:00.001Z

D'Alessandro's Child - Catherine Spencer
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861358

My rating

From the back cover:

"When Michael D'Alessandro discovers that three years ago his ex-wife gave birth and then had his baby adopted, his only desire is to find his son.
Michael finds little Jeremy safe and utterly loved by his new mom, the lovely Camille. Soon passion takes over. But Camille is unaware that Jeremy is Michael's son.
How can Michael tell her the truth - and keep both his child and the woman he adores?"

This is the third book in the By Request omnibus, as above. I really don't like the individual cover of this book, it looks like the guy on it is laughing at me!

The hero Michael has just discovered that his ex-wife had not told him that she was pregnant when she left him, and then allowed his son to be adopted, illegally since he did not give his permission. He tracks down the people who adopted his son, not knowing what to expect, and finds the heroine Camille - a devoted single mother. Even though his son has a loving home, Michael can't fathom not being a part of his child's life so he positions himself into meeting Camille and becoming friends with her. Camille enjoys spending time with Michael, and finds herself more and more drawn to him, which after the disaster that was her marriage is something she never expected to feel for a man again. Michael is also surprised by his growing feelings for Camille, and he feels guilty for lying to her about his true reason for being in her life. The passion between them is intense, but when Camille discovers the truth, her hurt crushes her feelings for him.

Wow, this is an emotional story and really enjoyable. The subject matter is quite brave and unlike many other books like this. The hero is really well rounded and written beautifully - he is angry and behaves badly at times, but this is totally understandable, and he is also very willing to show his feelings. I liked the heroine, but at times she was a little too naive.

This is a very poignant and emotional book, and I really enjoyed it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #312

2012-02-10T09:10:00.000Z

Nathan's Child - Anne McAllister
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861358

My rating

From the back cover:

"When Nathan Wolfe discovers that he's a father, he decides that marriage is the only way to mend the past.
Carin Campbell had good reasons for keeping Nathan's child a secret. But now he's demanding that they marry. Carin knows he's proposed out of duty, not love. Besides, he isn't the type to settle down.
That was then, Nathan says. Now he's determined to prove her wrong..."

This is the second book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The hero Nathan arrives at the home of the heroine Carin and immediately asks her to marry him. Carin knows that Nathan has finally found out about their daughter. Thirteen years ago, Nathan and Carin had fallen in love with each other but Carin's father had expected her to marry Nathan's brother as part of a business deal between their families, and Nathan had been consumed with guilt over their affair and left without a word. Carin has had to build a new life for herself and her daughter Lacey after being abandoned by her family, and she won't let Nathan come in and change all that she has worked hard for. She has never denied Lacey the truth about her father and is pleased that Nathan is dedicated to getting to know her. Nathan struggles with his feelings towards Carin, he knows that by not telling him she allowed him to live his life the way he had wanted to, but he also regrets missing out on his daughter's life. In all their years apart, Nathan has never forgotten Carin and knows he still loves her. But Carin makes it clear that she won't give up her life, and Nathan's own work commitments may ruin their newly rebuilt relationship.

I very much enjoyed this book. I'm not a big fan of Anne McAllister's Modern's, I prefer her Silhouette Desire's, but this one is very good. Much more in line with her Desire's, in terms of plot and emotion, than some of her more recent books. The story is well written and thought out, and the back story is weaved in wonderfully. It was a nice change to have the secret child older than the usual 1-6 years old - and the scenes between the hero and his teenage daughter gradually getting to know one another are very poignant. There is a lot of believable stuff in this book, and that is what makes it particularly enjoyable in my opinion.
The hero and heroine's relationship feels very natural and is emotional to read - the whole story executed very well.

A great book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #311

2012-02-10T08:47:00.000Z

The Mistress's Child - Sharon Kendrick
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861358

My rating

From the back cover:

"Property tycoon's secret love child...
After Philip Caprice and Lisi fell into bed together, Philip left at midnight....The reason he gave for leaving had prevented Lisi from telling him that their evening of passion had resulted in a darling baby, Tim. Until now...
Property millionaire Philip has just discovered he has a son....Lisi knows Tim needs a dad. Philip's solution is that Lisi and Tim move in with him.... Does Philip just want to play at happy families--or does he want Lisi to be his mistress once again?"

This is another By Request omnibus I bought from the kindle store as it was on sale.

The heroine Lisi is shocked when the hero Philip turns up at her work place, even more so when he makes it clear that her is there to see her. Philip has never forgotten Lisi and the brief passionate time they spent together, nor has he forgotten his shame over his actions. Lisi was devastated when Philip just walked out on her, especially after his parting remarks. His constant attentions now make Lisi nervous, and she tries to keep him from finding out that he is the father of her son Tim. But she also can't deny that her feelings for him have never gone away, and it is not long before Philip finds out the truth. Initially he is angry at Lisi for keeping his son from him, but he realises that after what he did to her she had every right to do it. But he wants to be a part of Lisi's life and be a father to his son, so he tries to make Lisi believe and trust in him. Something Lisi doesn't know if she can ever do.

This is a brilliant book, so well written and understandable. So often in 'secret baby' stories there isn't any actual good reason, apart from circumstance, for keeping the baby secret, but in this book the heroine has every reason to. This is a very appealing part of this book. Also, there was no insistence on marriage just because there is a child, hurrah! Sharon Kendrick keeps you guessing about what actually went wrong between the hero and heroine, and when it is revealed, wow it is a shocker - one that I didn't want to accept but I did and that was down to the wonderful, empathetic writing.
The way that the hero and heroine gradually learn to like each other and fall in love feels very natural and is very satisfying to read.

I enjoyed this story very much; emotional, well written and believable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #310

2012-02-07T09:10:00.000Z

The Prodigal Wife - Susan Fox
Mills & Boon Tender Romance
In 'Reclaiming His Wife' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263871296

My rating

The is the third book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The heroine Lainey has been married to the hero Gabe for nearly five years, but in those five years she has refused to see or have anything to do with him. Lainey had left him on their wedding day after her mother told her that Gabe married her purely for her late father's ranch. But after her mother's recent death, Lainey had discovered evidence that her mother had been lying to her all these years. When Gabe sees Lainey arrive at his home, he knows she has come for a divorce. And she had, but she also wants to apologise to Gabe for her appalling behaviour. Gabe is initially distrustful of Lainey's motivations, and he also doesn't want a divorce. He asks her to stay, to both keep an eye on her and also in the hope that they can become a family. Lainey is surprised that Gabe wants to be with her after all she has done, but knows in her heart that Gabe is a good man. A man that she gradually begins to fall in love with.

I did not expect to like this, but I really did. If I had to pick one word to describe this book, it would be "beautiful"! The hero and heroine's relationship is built up so gradually, and honestly, that it feels totally natural and is very heart warming to read. There isn't a big 'black moment' in this story, and that is a pleasant surprise. The whole story flows brilliantly. The hero is, sigh, so nice - there is nothing cruel of manipulating about him. Both character's are mature about learning from their mistakes.

I was absorbed in this from start to finish, it is a very satisfying read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #309

2012-02-07T08:42:00.000Z

Back in her Husband's Bed - Melanie Milburne
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'Reclaiming His Wife' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263871296

My rating

From the back cover:

"He wants her back - but on his terms!
By agreeing to a meeting with Xavier Knightly, her handsome ex-husband, Carli realizes that the passion is still there. Three months later, she has some shocking news for him!
But Xavier isn't considered one of the best lawyers in Sydney for nothing: here's a golden opportunity to blackmail his wife back into his bed. However, he also wants her to love him again like she used to, and that's where he'll face the biggest trial of his life..."

This is the second book in the By Request Omnibus, as above.

The heroine Carli and the hero Xavier end up spending a very passionate night together, after being stuck in a broken down elevator for some time. Although that night should never have happened, as all the issues around their divorce five years ago are stirred up. Carli has changed significantly from the shy, weak girl she was when married to Xavier and she is now a strong and successful lawyer. But that doesn't make her any less nervous about having to tell Xavier that she is pregnant. Xavier recognises the changes in Carli, and finds them very appealing, but he also realises that Carli is still very drawn to him even though she tries to hide it, and uses their shared desire for one another to convince her to come back into his life. Xavier knows that first time around he didn't treat Carli right and he tries to make it up to her, but they are both determined not to back down and this causes friction, as well as desire, in their very tentative reconciliation.

I'm a big fan of Melanie Milburne's book, but this is not one of her best. In my opinion, anyway. I enjoyed the sort-of battle of wills surrounding the hero and heroine's reconciliation, and I think that the journey of the two of them learning to compromise and work as a couple, rather than as obstinate individuals, was written really well. There is plenty of chemistry between the hero and heroine, this really moves the story along.
The hero is a bit of a jerk at times, and I really hate that in so many reconciliation stories authors use the 'hero-has-spent-the-whole-time-apart-sleeping-with-as-many-women-as-possible-and-then-brags-to-the-heroine-about-it' trope, it is a little off putting. Also, the almost constant arguing between the hero and heroine became a little grating after a while.

Overall though, I did enjoy reading this one.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #308

2012-02-07T08:13:00.001Z

The Ruthless Marriage Bid - Elizabeth Power
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'Reclaiming His Wife' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263871296

My rating

From the back cover:

"Will their passion persuade her?
Taylor's time as Jared Steele's wife was short, but not sweet: within weeks of their wedding she discovered that she was pregnant and that Jared had a mistress. She lost both the baby and her marriage...
Now Taylor is stunned by Jared's return - and his ruthless claim that he wants her back! And he holds the trump card: he won't grant her a divorce unless she agrees to his demands. Though Taylor will never forget the pain that drove her and Jared apart, how long can she hold out against his magnetic sensuality - when every glance at her tall, dark and impossibly handsome husband reminds her of the passion they once shared?"

This is the first book in the By Request omnibus, as above, I found this is the kindle store quite cheap a while back.

The heroine Taylor is trying to move on with her life after separating from her husband, when he suddenly turns up. Jared, the hero, has come back to try and win back his wife after their relationship crumbled under the weight of past mistakes and secrets. Jared goes to see Taylor to try and get her to talk to him about their marriage, and they end up being snowed in together. Jared hopes to make the most of this, but for Taylor it only reminds her of the hurt she felt during their marriage. However, it is also clear that the passion between them has never gone away and Jared uses this to his advantage to finally get Taylor to open up to him. But with so much baggage between them, Taylor doesn't know if she can ever trust Jared again.

I really enjoyed this book, if there is one thing I like about Elizabeth Power's books it is that there is always a lot of emotion in them. The plot is a little far fetched, but it also has elements of reality, that helps ground it. Yes, the hero is a bit too quick to always blame the heroine rather than think about his own part in the problems in the relationship, but I think this is actually quite realistic. The heroine is insecure, very insecure, but that suits her character and explained her rather rash reactions throughout the book.
At the heart of this story is the fact that secrets and lack of proper communication in marriage/relationships are very damaging, and I think this part is written very well.

An interesting and emotional read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #307

2012-02-07T07:52:00.000Z

The Return of Luke McGuire - Justine Davis
Silhouette Intimate Moments
Reprinted in Harlequin Showcase 2-in-1
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373688258

My rating

From the back cover:

"Luke McGuire was everything shy Amelia Blair had been fascinated by as a girl but too terrified to go near. And now here she was, the only person in the whole town decent enough to give him the time of day, caring enough to stand up for him...brave enough to get close.
Luke didn t need the town s nasty stares to know that Amelia was off-limits. But then, reformed or not, he d never been one to abide by the rules. He only hoped that the quiet beauty would fall for the man he had become instead of the one he used to be."

This is the second book in the Showcase 2-in-1, as above.

The hero Luke has been gone from his home town for eight years, and has no desire to ever go back. Having grown up as an unwanted child of a teenage mother, his unhappiness was reflected in his juvenile delinquent behaviour. However, when he gets a desperate letter from his younger brother David, whom is also getting the same emotionless treatment from their mother, he decides to go back to try and help. The heroine Amelia has also been trying to help David, especially to try and stop him from getting into trouble. When Luke arrives and meets Amelia, there is an immediate connection between them, and Luke soon realises she is the only one who will give him a chance, ignoring his childhood reputation. Their combined efforts to help David are not very successful, but as they spend time together they begin to fall for one another. The passion between them is fierce, but neither of them know if they can offer the other anything long term.

Again, unfortunately, I found this book rather boring. I really liked the plot idea, but boy was it dragged out. The relationship between the hero and heroine develops nicely, but I don't think there was enough focus on it to really make and impact, and they didn't actually spend a lot of time together. The small town attitude (i.e. once a bad seed, always a bad seed) is written very well, and definitely one of the most interesting parts of the book.

Overall, this isn't a bad book but, in my opinion, it could do with being a bit shorter!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #306

2012-02-06T10:20:00.000Z

Nighthawk - Rachel Lee
Silhouette Intimate Moments
Reprinted in Harlequin Showcase 2-in-1
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373688258

My rating

From the back cover:

"Esther Jackson need Craig Nighthawk's protection. The father she'd helped put away for murder was now seeking her out, so against her reclusive nature, she welcomed the darkly handsome Nighthawk into her home, hoping he could keep her safe.
Craig knew all about fear and isolation. After all, he was still being tried and convicted by the people of Conrad County for a crime he hadn't committed. All he wanted was to be left alone. Until he met Esther, and discovered in her loving arms a peace he would safeguard at any cost..."

I have had this Showcase 2-in-1 on my bookshelf for ages and thought I would give it a go.

The heroine Esther meets her neighbour Craig, the hero, for the first time in the two years she has lived there , after one of his sheep gets into her garden. At first Esther is nervous around him, her brutal father whom crippled Esther and killed her mother has given her a lifetime of being weary of men. But she soon relaxes around him and they form a tentative friendship. Craig is intrigued by Esther, but doesn't want to become too involved with her, believing he has nothing to offer. But for some reason he can't stay away, especially when Esther's worst fear is realised - her father is out of prison and looking for her. Esther is petrified when her father makes contact, and with the law powerless to to stop him she relies on the support and protection Craig offers her. Esther begins to realise that she can't spend her whole life in fear, and her blossoming feelings for Craig help her become stronger. Even though he wants her, Craig still thinks he and Esther can never be together. So while he helps her come to terms with her fear, he also tries to push her away.

I really thought I would like this one a lot more than I did. But, I found it a little boring. The plot is really interesting but, in my opinion, far too dragged out. The lead-in to the 'big event' made it seem like this would be a suspenseful book, but I was let down. I was very intrigued by the author's use of a Native American hero, and this certainly added another layer of tension to the book, and love story. But it focused way too much on the racial/social differences between the hero and the "white man", I get it.
The sexual tension between the hero and heroine is plentiful, and really helps this book along, there were so many stops and starts to their relationship that I almost wanted to cheer when they finally got together!
I have to say that the bits I enjoyed most in this book were there actions, or should I say antics, of the animals!

An enjoyable book, but a tad boring.

Xx

A busy couple of weeks...

2012-02-06T09:36:00.001Z

I haven't posted for a while, and that has been due to the fact that I have had a very busy (and exciting) couple of weeks. Which I am going to tell you about now...!

The first thing was that I had to say goodbye to the little foster baby my Mother-in-law has been caring for for 13 months. I was sad as I have spent a lot of time with her and really watched her grow up into a [naughty] little toddler, and she has been my first real experience with babies. But I am so pleased she has a nice new adoptive family to go to, she definitely deserves to have a great life!

And speaking of adopting... I have never actually talked about this much as it is something that has had a lot of false starts, but my husband and I are in the process of applying to become adopter's. I have said how much we want a family of our own, unfortunately this has not happened for us. As you already know my husband's mother is a foster carer, has been for 26+ years, and my husband's youngest brother is also adopted. So the area of social care isn't anything new to us.

Unfortunately as adoption in this country is run by your local council (no private agencies) you are pretty much puppets on their strings of bureaucracy. It has been a frustrating process, we heard nothing - absolutely nothing - from Social Services for 8 months and then suddenly it seems to be moving forward.

Last week we attended a four day pre-assessment 'Preparation Course'. I am not going to say too much about this as 1, we can't (confidentiality), and 2, I will post about this and the whole adoption thing in more detail another time.

However, let me tell you, it was basically four days of sitting on very uncomfortable chairs listening to some very useful information and a lot of unnecessary information, as well as witnessing some rather hideous outfits worn by social workers!

My husband said it best when he described is as the parenting course that Marge and Homer have to go on in 'The Simpson's' episode 'Home Sweet Homediddly-Dum-Doodily'.

But, our assessment should start in the next couple of weeks, which will last about 4 months and will be gruelling, but has to be done. We're now looking that, all being well, we could have a child matched with us by the end of the year! Very exciting!

The week was pretty stressful at times which brings me on to my next 'item'! On Thursday morning, the last day of our course, we woke up to a VERY cold house and realised that the heating was not on, and the boiler not working. After having a cold water wash and getting dressed in record time we left the house, hoping that the boiler would sort itself out over the day.

No such luck, when we got home it still wasn't working and by this time the house was so cold we could see our breath! Now luckily my Dad is a plumber, so we didn't have to call out a random person and have him charge who-knows-what just to step foot in the house! He said he would come up the next day to check and/or fix it. I was in a bit of a panic and convinced myself we would need a whole new boiler, which would take a huge chunk out of our savings. And with our kitchen and bathroom due to be re-fitted soon and a potential child coming soon, we really could do without that!!

Anyway, an hour before my Dad was due to arrive the next day, guess what started working again...? Yup, that's right! The boiler. Dad checked it to make sure it is all in working order, and it is, and has been working fine ever since (finger's firmly crossed!).

Remember when I mentioned it was cold, right? Well this weekend it has snowed, quite a lot! Saturday morning we got the bus up to mother-in-law's, but the bus home at 7.45pm decided it didn't have to turn up (it hadn't snowed yet), and about an hour after we had shivered back to mother-in-law's house with our cold tails between our legs it started snowing! Mother-in-law lives in a village, in the middle nowhere! So we we're stranded for the night. The next morning the snow was nearly knee deep (for me anyway, ankle deep for husband!) We had to get a taxi all the way home as no buses run on Sunday's!

Here is some photo's of the snow this morning -

View from my study

A section of our back garden

Some of you probably think this snow is nothing, but for us Brit's it is loads, our snow is usually crap and turns to slush after a couple of hours!

So, that was the last couple of weeks... Sorry for going on quite a bit.

All the best.

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #305

2012-01-28T12:21:00.000Z

Roccanti's Marriage Revenge - Lynne Graham
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890464

My rating

From the back cover:

"Engaged heiress risks all with mystery man!
Vitale Roccanti's plan was simple - sleep with the daughter to get to the father. What could go wrong? But staring at the black and white headline that announces the success of his plan doesn't feel half as satisfying as Zara did beneath his touch.
Zara Blake is shattered by the public expose of the night she risked it all - and lost. She betrayed her father, and his plans for her marriage, for one chance at passion. But that's nothing compared to the headline that will come in nine month's time!"

This is the latest from Lynne Graham, and I have been both excited and worried about reading this...

The heroine Zara has lived in the shadow of her controlling and abusive parents all her life, never having the confidence to stand up for herself. Her father wants her to marry an important business associate of his, and Zara thinks that a marriage of convenience will suit her. She meets the hero Vitale when he hires her company to design the garden for his Tuscan villa. Zara is surprised by the desire and attraction she feels towards Vitale, a bad experience in her youth has left her weary of men, and she begins to rethink her marriage plans. Vitale has only one thing on his mind and that is revenge against the man responsible for his beloved sister's death - Zara's father. He plans to seduce Zara and make it publicly known therefore ruining her father's business merger. However he is not expecting Zara to be innocent, in every sense, or that he would not be able to forget her. Zara is kicked out of her home and family for what happened with Vitale but tries to make the most of her new freedom even if it is a struggle. But then Vitale comes back into her life and they discover she is pregnant, and suddenly Zara once again feels trapped.

I had a difficult time trying to rate this one, I really liked it but at times it did annoy me a little bit. Overall though, I really liked it, it is certainly much more 'Lynne Graham-ish' than her last couple.
Let's get the stuff I didn't like out of the way first - Firstly, the hero! His whole plan is a little darn cruel, and it didn't sit well with me, and also at 29 years old he seemed a little too young to for his situation in life. Secondly, I do wish this hadn't been an accidental pregnancy plot, it feels a little too convenient and there is enough story to create another form of conflict that wouldn't be as clichéd. And thirdly, I am getting slightly bored of the whole 'hero thinks the heroine is some kind of tart so that is a good enough excuse for his behaviour' thing.
Now for the good stuff! The writing is flawless, very evocative, and it drew me into the story almost from the start and kept me interested throughout. I enjoyed the actual story as well, it surprised me how much I did! The chemistry between he hero and heroine is awesome, it bounces right off the pages. Lastly, the bunny who watches MTV is a nice little charming touch, and made me grin - I always like the inclusion of animals in Lynne Graham's books!

Despite some details not being great, I did really like this one. Does deserve a better title though.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #304

2012-01-28T11:53:00.000Z

Claimed by a Cowboy - Tanya Michaels
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373753925

My rating

From the back cover:

"Sam Travis doesn't like to be tied down. He's used to picking up work all around the Hill Country, including odd jobs for Wanda Keller, an older woman who treats him as a son. When Wanda suddenly dies, her estranged daughter shows up…and Lorelei Keller turns out to be more than he bargained for.
Polished—some might say uptight—Lorelei left Fredericksburg in the dust years ago. Coming home for her mom's funeral sends her into a tailspin of regrets. But that's nothing compared to the shock of learning that Sam has inherited her mother's B and B. Did the sexy cowboy manipulate his way into her mother's heart? Lorelei is determined to clean up this mess, and then get the heck out of Texas. For good this time.
Because there's nothing to keep her there now…except maybe Sam?"

Back to another trusty cowboy story, I am a little obsessed with them at the moment!

The heroine Lorelei is pulled away from her comfortable corporate/city life when she hears that her mother has passed away. She travels back to her small Texas home town rather reluctantly, not wanting to be reminded of her unhappy childhood and her very difficult relationship with her mother. When she gets there she is surprised to find Sam, the hero, at her mother's home. Sam had built a strong friendship with Lorelei's mother and saw her as the mother he never had. But no one is more surprised than he when it turns out Lorelei's mother has left everything, including her inn, to Sam. Lorelei, though, is more than a little annoyed. Sam knows that he doesn't have space in his life for running an inn, but also doesn't want Lorelei to just sell it. He also knows how much her mother adored Lorelei, so he asks her to stay until after the town's annual festival, as a sort-of tribute to her mother, and then he will give her the inn. While Lorelei stays she and Sam spend a lot of time together and become very close, she also begins to realise that her life is not as perfect as she thinks, but neither she or Sam are willing to give up anything to have a future together.

I quite enjoyed this book, there is a nice 'real' feels to the story, and it is written really well. However, that's not to say it didn't get on my nerves a little as it did! I didn't really understand why the heroine has such a problem with her mother, it wasn't really explained enough and the impression I did get seemed a little shallow. The hero makes this book; he is perfect in every way - complex, yet open, and very romantic.
The relationship that develops between them is nicely portrayed, it managed to be both tender and steamy, and makes the eventual HEA worth it.

Enjoyable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #303

2012-01-28T11:34:00.001Z

The Man from Texas - Linda Style
Mills & Boon Superromance
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861693

My rating

From the back cover:

"One passionate night…one baby!
Raised by adoptive parents, Jack Parker is determined to discover everything about his biological family. His sensual connection with Taylor Dundee is just getting in the way!
Jack’s investigation uncovers a shocking secret about her mother and Taylor never wants to see the handsome man from Texas again. But only Jack can help her understand the truth. And then she’ll have to tell him she’s carrying his baby.
When Jack finds out, he’ll put the past behind him…because nothing is more important than being a husband to Taylor and a father to his child!"

My husband found this for me recently on a used book stall, and it sounded quite interesting so I thought I would give it a go.

The heroine Taylor is still trying to come to terms with her mother's recent death when she meets the hero Jack, whom wants to ask her questions about her mother's past. Jack has been trying to unravel the mystery that surrounds his birth father's imprisonment for a murder he claims he did not commit, and he feels that Taylor's mother is key to the investigation. However, Taylor knows nothing about the stuff Jack tells her, and worries that her mother has hidden things from her all her life. Taylor wants to find out the truth, so she agrees to work with Jack. As they uncover more and more information about the events of 30 years ago, Taylor and Jack grow ever closer to one another, and pretty soon they are acting on the chemistry between them. But when Taylor discovers that Jack has been lying to her she feels very betrayed.

Hmmm, this is another difficult book to review and it is completely different to what I was expecting. I like the Superromance line as it deals with real life issues and is usually quite gritty, but this book was more suited to the suspense range. It focuses so much on the mystery that the romance feels like an afterthought that has been crowbarred in. The accidental pregnancy plot is both unnecessary and unbelievable, and again felts like it was forced in only as a bit of romantic conflict.

Overall, the mystery element is interesting but the romance is completely flat, and that lets this book down. A little disappointing.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #302

2012-01-28T11:14:00.002Z

Dangerous Dowry - Catherine O'Connor
Mills & Boon Romance
Mills & Boon, 1992
ISBN: 9870263778007

My rating

From the back cover:

"Alone in a strange country, Jamesy was relieved to have help from one of the locals - and particularly one as attractive as Ross Stewart. But that was until he discovered who she was. Their ancestors had always been sworn enemies - and it seemed as though nothing had changed. But, despite their differences, Jamesy felt drawn to the arrogant laird - even if he did despise her. Would they ever be able to put the past behind them?"

I had to read this one for the hilarious title alone!

The heroine Jamesy has travelled to the small Scottish village where her ancesteros one hailed from, to research her family histroy. On her first day there, she meets the hero Ross and there is an immediate spark between them. But when Ross realises that Jamesy is an ancestor of his family's bitter rivals his whole attitude towards her changes and he makes it clear that she is not welcome. Jamesy tries her best to ignore the pain Ross's scorn causes her, and vows to find out the truth behind the rivalry. However much he protests to not wanting her around, Ross can't seem to stay away from Jamesy and it's clear that the more time they spend together the more they begin to fall for one another.

I must say this is an odd book, on one hand I quite liked it and no the other I though it was just plain silly. The good stuff first; The hero and heroine are good characters, well written and they work well together, plus there is plenty of chemistry between them. The writing is OK, very descriptive and the actual story has a nice flow. But the whole conflict was based on something that happened 200-or-so years ago! Seriously, who gives a damn, the hero acted like the heroine was the person to actually commit whatever was done those many years back... it's long past. In my opinion this ruined the book and left me, well, baffled, that is not romantic conflict, it's silliness!

Anyway, an odd but sort of OK book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #301

2012-01-27T12:09:00.000Z

Adam's Law - Claudia Jameson
Mills & Boon Romance
Mills & Boon, 1986
ISBN: 9780263754315

My rating

From the back cover:

"Kate's life was in tatters. Once a top London Model - now her face was scarred and her self-confidence broken. She was more than glad to hide herself away on picturesque Guernsey, as the guest of her lovable scatterbrained Aunt Dolly. Kate had envisaged a peaceful, isolated convalescence - she hadn't bargained for Adam. She found him devastating - how could anyone be so deliberately and persistently cruel? Could she endure him for long enough to discover the sweet and loving characteristics that her aunt insisted he possessed? It seemed unlikely."

Another oldie from my bookshelf.

The heroine Kate travels to Guernsey to stay with her aunt in order to rest and recover from her recent car accident. Kate is feeling very delicate emotionally, trying to come to terms with the fact that her face is badly scarred and her modelling career may be over. For the first few days of her stay all Kate does in mope around feeling sorry for herself, and this infuriates her aunt's stepson Adam, the hero. Adam regularly tells Kate what he thinks about her behaviour and doesn't pull any punches, at first this upsets Kate but she soon begins to fight back. Adam spends time with Kate pushing her out of her comfort zone and making her do things. They grow closer and closer and as Kate's confidence returns she falls for Adam. But she is regularly left confused over Adam's rather hot and cold attitude towards her. When the time comes for Kate to return to her life, she knows she has Adam to thank for her recovery but she is left heartbroken by Adam's sudden scorn.

This is a difficult review to write as on a couple of levels I really liked this book, but the details really let it down. I felt sympathy for the heroine and her issues over her scarred face, but at first it was made out as though the scars were really bad, and permanent, but then she had plastic surgery (once) and they completely disappeared... this is confusing as surely they couldn't have been as bad to start with?! The hero and heroine had a lot of chemistry, and I enjoyed reading how the hero constantly pushed the heroine and helped her face her problems in a 'tough love' sort of way. No POV from hero so his rather up and down moods were difficult to understand.
I didn't like the pacing of the book, the time scale moved so fas that there was hardly any room for depth.

The plot idea is good, but unfortunately the execution is not so great.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #300

2012-01-25T10:08:00.001Z

The Deception Trap - Ann Charlton
Mills & Boon Romance
Mills & Boon, 1986
ISBN: 9780263755107

My rating

From the back cover:

"Even six years after it had all happened, Teressa still hadn't forgiven Ashe Warwick for walking out on her and her family when they lost their money. Now she had grasped the opportunity to level the score - and, with her appearance drastically changed, had insinuated herself into Ashe's life again. But it was disturbing to find that the mercenary, self-seeking man she had once know actually appeared to have some good qualities after all! Until Ashe discovered her deception, and Teressa realised she had been playing with fire..."

This is an oldie that I found on my bookshelf.

The heroine Teressa is helping out her elderly neighbour with her cleaning business when she see's Ashe, the hero. Ashe was once engaged to Teressa's sister but had seemingly abandoned her and Teressa and their father when their father was in financial trouble. As a teenager at the time, Teressa has idolised Ashe and took his betrayal hard. She has imagined being able to get revenge on him, so when her neighbour needs her to go to Ashe's home as a housekeeper for a weekend party he is holding, she sees this as her chance. But Teressa is disconcerted when Ashe turns out to be nice, and especially surprised when she is extremely drawn to him and he seems to share the attraction. When Ashe discovers her web of lies he is angry and vows to make Teressa sorry for deceiving him.

This is an interesting book, and I enjoyed reading it. I liked the plot and it is well written, but I wasn't too keen on the heroine. She seemed a little too flaky and immature in my opinion. There is no POV from the hero so I found it difficult to understand him and his character, but I liked the impression I did get, especially that he is actually a nice guy and not the 'villain' he starts out being.
This being an older book, the passion level is quite low (compared to what I'm used too!) but there was no lack of sizzle between the characters.

As I said, an enjoyable book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #299

2012-01-25T09:27:00.000Z

The Impatient Groom - Sara Wood
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 1999
ISBN: 97803737120543
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459252066

My rating

From the back cover:

"Marrying in haste!
No sooner had Sophia Charlton discovered she was the descendant of an Italian count and heiress to a fortune than she was whisked away to Venice by the sultry Prince Rozzano di Barsini—having consented to be his bride! Dazed by the strength of his desire, she'd also agreed to a lavish wedding in just four weeks' time!
Once she could catch her breath, however, Sophia began to question Rozzano's impatience. Rumour had it that he urgently needed an heir. Was she to become his beloved wife—or just a means of making babies?"

This is another book the Harlequin Treasury line.

The heroine Sophia is shocked when she is called to meet her local solicitor and learns that she is the granddaughter of an Italian count. The hero Razzano is also there, he is a good friend of Sophia's grandfather and fills Sophia in about her mother's family. Razzano is intrigued by Sophia's innocence and honesty, and he wants to protect her from the shallow, almost seedy society she is about to become a part of. Razzano has spent his life hiding his true feelings from the cruel world he inhabits, but Sophia makes him feel happiness like he has never felt before. He decides to get Sophia to marry him, therefore not only will he be able to protect her, he also gets a 'suitable' marriage. Their whirlwind romance sweeps naive Sophia off her feet and she falls completely in love with Razzano. But when he finally takes her to Venice, she is overwhelmed by her new life, as well as confused by Razzano's constant distance from her.

There were moments in this book that I really didn't like, but overall I really enjoyed it. The hero and heroine work well together and there is a lot of entertaining interaction between them. Sara Wood's dialogue and interaction between her characters is something I have found particularly enjoyable in the two books of her's that I have read. The hero is a little bit manipulative and this did not sit well with me, as a result I didn't truly believe his love for the heroine. The heroine is a great character; refreshingly naive and amusing and at 31 years old, a much more relatable age - in my opinion!
The plot is well written and absorbing. plus there is plenty of passion. One tiny moan though - the heroine wanted to sleep with the hero but didn't want to get pregnant so she kicked him out of her bed ... ever heard of contraception?!

Anyway, a good read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #298

2012-01-25T08:59:00.000Z

Cowboy Pride - Anne McAllister
Silhouette Desire
Silhouette Books, 1996
ISBN: 9780373760343
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459279094

My rating

From the back cover:

"'BRENNA NEEDSA A HUSBAND,'
Jed McCall's nephew Tuck told him. Pregnant and alone, Brenna Jamison was back—trying single-handedly to run her father's ranch.
'WE NEED A WIFE,'
Tuck said. If footloose cowboy Jed McCall didn't do something drastic, he would lose custody of the boy. But marriage?
'WHY NOT?' asked Tuck. There were reasons that only Jed knew. And marrying Brenna—becoming a father to her child—would be like jumping from the frying pan into the fire."

This is another book from the Harlequin Treasury line, and one that came highly recommended.

The heroine Brenna has returned to her family home newly widowed and pregnant. She desperately misses her late husband, whom was he best friend although she never loved him - she has always been in love with her teenage sweetheart Jed, the hero. Jed has also never had anyone else touch his heart and has never forgotten Brenna. But even though she is back he doesn't want to see her, that will remind him of his shame over his betrayal and reasons he ended their relationship ten years ago. However when he discovers she is pregnant, and after he gets over his all consuming jealousy, he can't seem to stay away. Jed is also having problems, he has pressure from social services around his custody of his nephew and needs to show a more settled existence. His nephew suggests that Jed marry Brenna and Jed asks her, surprising himself. Even more surprising, Brenna agrees. Now they both have what they wanted all those years ago - to be together - but Jed refuses to open up or allow anything remotely intimate to happen between them.

This is an incredibly emotional and touching story. The writing is pretty much flawless, it's so evocative and descriptive. The plot is also very brave of the author, but beautifully done. The hero and heroine are wonderful characters, both their past and presents are full of tension and pain, yet they so belonged together. I really couldn't see how these two would get their HEA. The hero's secret is shocking, but well thought out. I particularly liked that his secret was linked to a, er, 'problem' that makes his reasons a little more understandable (I asked my husband for his opinion on it!).

I have read a lot of Anne McAllister's Modern/Presents and I'm not crazy about them, from this books example I much prefer her style in these Desire's.
I loved this book, thoroughly recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #297

2012-01-25T08:32:00.001Z

Rancher and Protector - Pamela Britton
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373753772

N.B. This is a North American Release

My rating

From the back cover:

"Amber Brooks took the job at Camp Cowboy to find a way to reach her special-needs nephew—not to go gaga over the best-looking guy she's ever laid eyes on. True, Colt Sheridan can teach her a thing or two about horses, but Amber knows better than to trust anyone with her secret. And yet…just what is it about cowboys?
Going undercover at the camp is Colt's way of finding out where "Aunt Amber" has hidden his buddy's little boy. In exchange, his friend's promised him a prize-winning horse. And what this rodeo rider really wants is a shot at the national championship. Unfortunately, what he's got is a crush on the softhearted equine intern. But if Amber is such a good person, how can she keep a man from his own son?"

I think this has to be one of the best covers I have seen on an American Romance book, it's much less cheesy than others!

The hero Colt arrives at a children's therapeutic ranch to help out with the horses, however he is really there to find out where one of his friend's son is. The heroine Amber is the guardian of the little boy and she is working as a therapist at the ranch, so Colt plans to get to know her then hopefully get her to open up to him. Amber is desperate to try anything to help her severely autistic nephew, both with the therapy through the ranch program as well as keeping him away from his imprisoned father. Colt approaches Amber and helps her learn about horses, pretty soon he begins to realise that his friend's description of Amber as a cruel, heartless woman is wrong. Instead Amber is a warm and caring woman, whom he is undeniably drawn to. Amber is also very attracted to Colt and they grow closer and closer. As much as he hates lying to her, Colt still tries to find out where her nephew is but is only left frustrated when she doesn't give anything away.

This is a really deep and moving story. There is quite a bit of sadness in the book, but it's weaved through the book with some fun moments. The issues raised around children's learning disabilities are handled with honesty and sensitivity. Both the hero and heroine are complex characters and perfectly portrayed, they fit together well and I felt that there is a lot of depth to their relationship. I loved the inclusion of the hero's dog, it added such charm to the story!
The only moan I have is that the little boy's father was made out to be the baddie throughout the whole book yet in the closing pages he had completely reformed and was the nicest man possible - it felt weak and a little shallow.

There is angst, emotion, and passion in this book. I really liked it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #296

2012-01-19T09:40:00.001Z

An Indecent Proposition - Carol Marinelli
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890372

My rating

From the back cover:

"A scandalous offer she can’t refuse
Zander Kargas developed his drive to succeed first from his father’s cruel fists, then from living on the streets. He’s fought for everything, and few challenges remain…or so he thinks! Charlotte is the best secretary Zander has ever had the pleasure of dealing with, and the only woman to fire his blood in a while. But she works for his bitter rival…
Zander, assuming he can acquire her the way he does with most things, reaches for his wallet – except Charlotte can’t be bought. So Zander must entice her…beginning with a very indecent proposition! The Secrets of Xanos Two brothers alike in charisma and power; separated at birth and seeking revenge…"

I have been looking forward to reading this book. This is the second part in Carol Marinelli's duet, I loved the first part (A Shameful Consequence).

The heroine Charlotte and the hero Zander have been in contact with each other for a while, Charlotte is trying a arrange a business deal with Zander for her boss, but the phone calls they share have also become friendly and she has begun to treasure them. She uses them as a way to escape from the difficulties in her life, caring full-time for her alzheimer's suffering mother is getting more and more difficult. When Charlotte must travel to Greece to help assist her boss Nico, her guilt over having to place her mother in temporary care is lessened by her excitement that she will meet Zander for the first time. Zander has waited a lifetime to get revenge on the twin brother he has never known, whom led a far better life after they were separated, and he plans to use Charlotte as part of this. When they meet on the beach one night Charlotte is shocked to see that Zander is the mirror image of Nico, yet his personality so harsh and different. She is drawn to him as much in person as she was on the phone, and wants to help him with his proclaimed excitement about meeting his twin for the first time. Zander feels something for Charlotte, and not just intense desire, but even though he hates lying to her, he needs to go along with his vengeance plan.

I have tried not to give too much away in this review, there are so many secrets and revelations in this book that I don't want to ruin the explosiveness of it! This is a brilliant book, I couldn't read it fast enough. The passion and depth of feeling between the hero and heroine is simply phenomenal. Individually these characters carry so much pain, and it is heart wrenching to read. Just like the first book in this duet (A Shameful Consequence) the narrative is very distinct, almost hypnotic, and creates a very moving atmosphere.

This is a book that is powerful and brimming with passion and secrets. Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #295

2012-01-19T09:03:00.000Z

A Devilishly Dark Deal - Maggie Cox
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890396

My rating

From the back cover:

"A deal with the devil
Having made his fortune from nothing, billionaire Marco Aguilar has wiped the dirt of a poverty-stricken childhood from his expensive shoes. Now he can have anything he wants – and his next acquisition is beautiful charity worker Grace Faulkner. He’ll finance her beloved orphanage if she agrees to become his mistress!
Only Grace’s sweet, selfless nature – and the fire she ignites with her touch – shakes his iron defences to the core. Tortured Marco has been driven by demons for so long – can he be saved by this innocent angel?"

The title of this book is great, nice bit a alliteration!

The heroine Grace is on holiday in Portugal when she hearts that the well known businessman Marco, the hero, is due to arrive. She decides to try and arrange a meeting with him to ask for a donation to the charity she works for - the charity needs backing in order to build a new orphanage for children in Africa. Although Marco is initially annoyed at Grace's interruption her passion for her cause moves him and he agrees to listen to her proposal. Marco also realises he is very drawn to Grace, both for her passion as well as her honesty. He asks Grace to spend the rest of her holiday with him, and Grace agrees. At first she is nervous and flustered by Marco's attentions but soon realises the attraction is entirely mutual. They start a passionate affair, which quickly becomes more, but Marco is afraid that Grace's refreshing openness will cause him to let down his very guarded heart.

I wanted to like this book, I really did. But I have to be honest and say that I just found it boring. The actual story only takes place over a few days but the pace of the book made it feel like forever, it became a little tedious after a while. I found the heroine to be a little too uptight, way too puritanical, and a bit of a martyr. The hero is a good character though, very complex.

This story just didn't have enough kick to make it really enjoyable, in my opinion. It is a little disappointing.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #294

2012-01-19T08:36:00.000Z

Tempted by His Target - Jill Sorenson
Harlequin Romantic Suspense
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373277483

My rating

From the back cover:

"Wanted for the murder of a Mexican drug lord's son, party girl Isabel Sanborn fled to Oaxaca. Now she owes her life to Brandon Knox, a passing tourist who just saved her from a hit man. But Knox is no accidental hero—he's an undercover U.S. marshal assigned to bring Isabel to justice. Instead, wanting to protect her, he joins her on the lam…with cartel goons and corrupt police in hot pursuit!
And as the danger escalates, sexual tension sizzles. For the first time in his career, Brandon considers jeopardizing his mission to safeguard his target. And though Isabel can elude the authorities,she can't escape her feelings…"

I have been eyeing up this one from the Harlequin ebook store for a while and decided to give it a go.

The hero Brandon is a U.S. Marshall whose newest assignment is to find and escort back to the US fugitive Isabel, the heroine. Isabel has been on the run for two years, from both the US authorities and a dangerous Mexican drug cartel. After spending most of her adult life jumping from party to party, drinking, and doing drugs, all to escape the disappointments in her life, being on the run has enabled her to clean up and reform her ways. Waking up next to the dead son of the cartel leader and having no idea of what happened, caused Isabel to flee in fear, and she has had to grow up a lot in the last two years. Brandon manages to make contact, despite her prickliness, and also gains her trust. However when members of the cartel find her they are forced to flee together. Brandon and Isabel grow close as they try to make their way through Mexico, Isabel begins to trust Brandon enough to tell him her story, and Brandon soon begins to wish he could help her rather than his eventual betrayal.

When I started reading this book I actually didn't like it. The use of a lot of surfer slang kind of put me off (!) and the hero was a little too young for my liking. BUT, I kept with it and ended up really loving it. The suspense in this book is pretty much perfect, there is plenty of edge-of-your-seat action, as well as mystery. The passion between the hero and heroine is intense, it jumps off the pages. The rushed nature of the relationship is very exciting, and reads well. Although I do think the HEA is a little too 'wrapped up', if you know what I mean.

But overall, this is an exciting, fast paced, and emotional book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #293

2012-01-19T08:15:00.000Z

Secret Son, Convenient Wife - Maxine Sullivan
Mills & Boon Desire 2-in-1
Harlequin UK, 2011
ISBN: 9780263890853

My rating

From the back cover:

"Tate Chandler had never wanted a woman as much as he'd wanted Gemma Watkins—until the day she'd betrayed him. Yet when he learned they had a son, he demanded Gemma marry him, or he'd fight for custody. Tate was a man of honor—he'd create a family for his heir, even if it meant marrying a woman he couldn't trust.
Their marriage was about duty, nothing more. But Gemma's beauty tempted him to make her his wife in every way. Could he lure her back into his bed without letting her back into his heart?"

This is my first Maxine Sullivan book, I was looking forward to reading this. I am always interested in new-to-me authors!

When the hero Tate sees the heroine Gemma in a ward of the hospital wing that has just been dedicated to his affluent family, he is immediately reminded of her betrayal. Gemma tries to hide her reason for being in the hospital, but Tate soon finds out about her son - his son. Tate can't believe that on top of Gemma's betrayal with his best friend she has also kept his son from him. He knows he can never trust Gemma again but for his son's sake, as well as his family's name, he insists they marry. Gemma loved Tate with all her heart and was deeply hurt when he believed his devious best friend over her. But knows she can't deny her son his father. After they are married Gemma soon realises that Tate has no intention of taking their marriage further than convenience, despite desire that is still between them.

This was a good read; enjoyable and well written. The story has a nice flow and there is plenty of emotion weaved into the book. The hero and heroine fit well together and there is a nice bit of chemistry. The hero's trust issues became a little tedious after a while, and a ruined a little bit of my enjoyment of the story. I wanted the heroine to stick up for herself a but more, but generally she was quite a good character.
I had two problems with this book; first is that there wasn't really enough explanation of the motive of Tate's best friend for betraying him - the reason given was that Tate dated one of his ex-girlfriends at university, surely that can't be it? It seems rather petty. The second is that again there was lack of explanation around the heroine's parents and why they didn't like her. Because of these things, I felt that some of the conflict felt a little flat.

Apart from that, I enjoyed it!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #292

2012-01-19T07:53:00.000Z

Carrying the Rancher's Heir - Charlene Sands
Mills & Boon Desire 2-in-1
Harlequin UK, 2011
ISBN: 9780263890853

My rating

From the back cover:

"The passionate, impulsive evening Tagg Worth had spent in the arms of brown-eyed beauty Callie Sullivan was madness. Visions of their tryst still haunted him, but their one-night stand was a mistake the wealthy rancher swore he would not repeat. Hawk Sullivan's daughter was strictly off-limits—especially since Hawk's main goal in life was to put Tagg out of business.
Then, suddenly, there was a baby on the way. His baby. Tagg vowed to do the right thing, no matter what it cost him. But his inconvenient new bride tempted his solitary heart down a path a Worth didn't dare follow…."

I bought this book a couple of months back but couldn't motivate myself to read it, I'm not sure why!

The hero Tagg and the heroine Callie spent an unforgettable night together a few weeks back, that in Tagg's opinion should never have happened. Callie is the daughter of his family's biggest rival, and they could never be together - for that reason and the fact that Tagg will never love another woman, after his late wife died. Although he has tried to forget her he has found it difficult and it gets even more difficult when Callie begins working at his family's ranch. Callie has always been a little bit in love with Tagg, but her father's over-protectiveness and plain dislike for Tagg and his family has always stopped her from approaching. Her one wild night with Tagg has left her pregnant and she decides to go after what she wants - her, Tagg, and their baby as a family. Tagg can't deny his fierce desire for Callie and they soon reignite their affair. But when Tagg finds out about the baby he insists they marry but makes it clear that he will never give Callie his heart.

I enjoyed this book, there is plenty of chemistry between the hero and heroine, as well as an interesting, well written story. The hero's grief for his late wife is very poignant and handled well, but I do feel that he hadn't fully gotten over it and this took a little bit of shine away from the central relationship. The heroine is a nice character; very gentle and reasonable.
I loved the setting, it is very vividly described and I felt a real sense of place.

This is a nice story.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #291

2012-01-17T09:07:00.000Z

Just One Look - Mary McBride
Silhouette Intimate Moments
Silhouette Books, 1999
ISBN: 9780373079667
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459259171

My rating

From the back cover:

"SOMEONE TO WATCH OVER HER
One look at the rugged, denim-clad, 100% man in her doorway told Sara Campbell she wasn't dead yet—only dreaming. She'd met detective Joe Decker just yesterday, when he'd scooped her off the pavement after the South Side Ripper had tried to kill her, and held her hand until she woke up. Now he was back to protect her, because Sara, all alone in her mansion, was the only living witness to the maniac's face. But she couldn't remember that face! And that meant she was in danger, with only this one man to keep her safe. But even if he kept the maniac from harming her, what would happen to the heart that was already his?"

This is another book I got from the Harlequin ebook store.

The heroine Sara is driving home when her car is hit and she is attacked and knocked unconscious. When she wakes up in the hospital she finds the hero Joe, a detective, sitting by her bed side. Joe informs Sara that she was attacked by a serial killer and her action of pulling away his ski mask before she was hit means she is the only surviving person to have seen his face. Unfortunately for Joe, Sara can't remember anything, she also refuses to go into protective custody admitting she suffers from agoraphobia. Joe is frustrated by Sara's lack of cooperation and he is initially insensitive towards her problem. But he is determined to catch the killer and protect Sara, so he virtually moves in with her. As he gets to know her he begins to fall for the strong woman that she is underneath her fears. But with the threat against them never far away, Joe knows he can't act on his feelings fearing his guard will drop and the worst could happen.

I enjoyed the book, it is well written and interesting, with plenty of spark in the central relationship. I liked that the suspense plot didn't overshadow the romance, but it was no less exciting. The hero is a good character; very 'normal' and his crankiness was quite amusing! I was intrigued by the idea of the agoraphobia heroine, but it didn't work for me. It seemed rather half-hearted - the heroine actually went out quite a bit but a true agoraphobic would not be able to leave their safe place.
There wasn't really an explanation of motive for the culprit, it just didn't make sense. Oh, and the culprit was pretty obvious from early on in the book.

But the author's writing style is funny and flows nice, and this is an enjoyably oldie!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #290

2012-01-17T08:44:00.000Z

Pregnant: Father Needed - Barbara McMahon
Mills & Boon Tender Romance
In 'His Pregnant Bride' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263871333

My rating

From the back cover:

"Seeing that unmistakably blue line staring up at her from a pregnancy test should have been the happiest day of Amber Woodworth's life. But it was also the same day she discovered she was a widow....
Now Amber is making a new life for herself, as an independent, single mom-to-be. Her new neighbor, Adam Carruthers, is a sexy fireman who's devoted his life to rescuing people. Amber's determined not to get involved again - especially with a man who puts his life on the line - every day...."

This is the third book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The heroine Amber is trying to come to terms with the fact that she is newly widowed and pregnant. The highlight of her rather worry filled days is seeing the very sexy man out running during her daily walks. The hero Adam has also noticed Amber and decides to approach her. Amber doesn't know what to make of Adam's approach, she admits that she is attracted to him but she is still grieving plus her pregnancy, she knows nothing can ever come of their meeting. However, surprising them both they begin to bond and form a solid friendship that Amber begins to rely on more and more. Adam is confused by his feelings for Amber, he certainly isn't ready for commitment but there is something about her that he finds irresistible. He slowly begins to accept that he wants more with Amber and her baby, but Amber doesn't want to risk her heart on another man, especially one with a dangerous occupation, and she often pushes him away.

I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. It is a really lovely story. So real and relatable, and the storytelling is flawless. I loved the way the hero and heroine first see and meet each other, it is so fun yet romantic. The friendship that grows between the two of them is very heart warming, and the eventual romance is made even more sweet. The conflict is written well, and is believable.

Simply put, this is a really nice read. I liked it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #289

2012-01-17T08:23:00.000Z

His Pregnant Princess - Robyn Donald
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Pregnant Bride' Mills & Boon By Request, 2009
ISBN: 9780263871333

My rating

From the back cover:

"Hunter Radcliffe is like no other man Princess Lucia Bagaton has ever met. Giving herself to a commoner could cause a royal scandal. But then Lucia finds she's expecting Hunter's child!
Hunter is insistent that they should marry; it will be just one more union of convenience for the royal house of Bagaton -- the first with a pregnant princess!"

This is the second book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The hero Hunter is travelling to the small Mediterranean island of Dacia in order to visit his good friend, whom has recently married the Prince of Dacia. He is met at the airport by Lucia, the heroine, the cousin of the Prince and a Princess herself. Hunt believes her to be a cold hearted temptress and makes his dislike of her obvious. Cia recognises this dislike but she does her best to welcome him to her country. Ever since her cousin married, Cia has been feeling lost. No longer needed as a royal figure, as the island now has a new Princess, she has planned to leave and attend university. Although Hunt doesn't want to like Cia he ends up spending time with her and they are undeniably attracted to one another. Hunt takes Cia to his cattle station home in New Zealand for a break, where their relationship begins to bloom. When they realise Cia is pregnant Hunt wants them to marry but thinks Cia will refuse as he is not royalty, and Cia believes that Hunt feels nothing towards her.

I have to be honest and say that I found this book really boring. It doesn't have the usual intensity of Robyn Donald's books, and it seems to drag a bit. The hero and heroine are OK characters but I didn't really 'believe' either of them, the heroine in particular was a little too whiny. Also the conflict between them, such as the reason the hero doesn't initially like the heroine feels a little flimsy. And, Dacia + Lucia/Cia ... comes off as a bit lazy to be so similar.

I don't really know what else to say about this book, it's just a bit blah!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #288

2012-01-17T07:55:00.000Z

Pregnant by the Greek Tycoon - Kim Lawrence

Mills & Boon Modern

In 'His Pregnant Bride' Mills & Boon By Request

Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009

ISBN: 9780263871333

My rating

From the back cover:

"After a whirlwind marriage to Greek billionaire Angolos Constantine, Georgie was pregnant - and was sure Angolos would be delighted. Instead, he told her to "go away and never come back." So that was exactly what she did.

Angolos has never seen his son - until now!In fact, Angolos Constantine didn't think he could have children, and now he's not prepared to let this miracle go. Even though Georgie seems to hate him, he'll have what's rightfully his...by whatever means possible!"

This is the first book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The heroine Georgie is shocked when the husband she hasn't seen in four years - ever since he kicked her out of his life - turns up demanding to see his son. The hero Angolos has spent five years believing that Georgie had betrayed him and that her son was not his. Now he has been confronted with the truth that not only did he abandon Georgie but also his precious son. Georgie initially thinks that Angolos is there to get a divorce, and although this brings her hurt she is only too happy to agree. But she's even more shocked when he tells her that he wants them to be a family. She agrees but knows she will never forgive him for the way he treated her, and Georgie refuses to let him take over and change the life she has built for herself and her son. Angolos is surprised by the new more assertive Georgie, and pleased that the all consuming passion that was always between them is still there. However, as much as he wants Georgie to forgive him he still can't make himself completely trust her.

I have read quite a few of Kim Lawrence's books and I find them a little hit and miss, so I didn't actually expect to like this one as much as I did. There is so much emotion and tension weaved throughout this book that makes it totally absorbing to read. The hero's background is so sad yet he behaves badly towards the heroine, but this somehow works and is very entertaining to read. The heroine is strong and independent, and not at all silly. I loved reading the snippets of their past, it really added depth to the book.

This is an engaging and riveting read. Recommended.

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #287

2012-01-16T08:26:00.000Z

Forgotten Mistress, Secret Love-Child - Annie West
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
ISBN: 9780263877601

My rating

From the back cover:

"He's forgotten their past, but not her body.
A lavish masquerade ball is no place for plain-Jane receptionist Carys Wells. Used to being unnoticed by the glitterati, Carys feels vulnerable and exposed by the searing gaze of a dark masked man. Little does she know he's the man she ran from two years ago, whose wicked touch is about to become her undoing once more.
Alessandro Mattani cannot remember Carys, but his body does - intimately. And the red-blooded Italian is determined to claim all that he believes is his..."

This is another book I bought for kindle ages ago and never read.

The hero Alessandro is still coming to terms with the retrograde amnesia he has been suffering from ever since he was involved in a car accident. He comes across a brochure for a hotel in Australia and is immediately struck with the feeling that he knows the woman in one of the photographs. Unable to shake of the feeling, he travels to Australia hoping that maybe he will be able to regain some of his memory. The heroine Carys is shocked to see Sandro, she has never forgotten the way he threw her out of his life and refused her later attempts at contact. Even though she is devastated to learn about the accident, she can't help worrying about what will happen when he discovers that her baby son is his child. Sandro is rocked to the core when he meets Carys, he feels an instant connection to her and somehow knows she is telling the truth about their past relationship, and that her son is his. A life of being surrounded by avaricious people makes Sandro initially suspicious of Carys, but for their son's sake he insists they marry. But as time passes, and with revelations about the forgotten part of his life, Sandro begins to realise that what he and Carys had, and has, goes much deeper. He only wishes that Carys would trust him.

There is something special that Annie West does to what are quite well used plots to make them really enjoyable, and she has certainly done this here. I really enjoyed it. The relationship between the hero and heroine feels very natural and it is full of passion, as well as tinged with sadness. The amnesia plot could be a bit trite, but I was so pleased that there wasn't a sudden 'I remember everything just from one look in your eyes' moment. And I think Annie handled the hero's slow acceptance of his memory loss really well. The heroine is a brilliantly developed character, so strong despite all her problems.

This is a fabulous book; passionate, absorbing, and powerful. Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #286

2012-01-16T07:48:00.000Z

Having the Billionaire's Baby - Sandra Hyatt
Mills & Boon Desire 2-in-1
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
ISBN: 9780263881837

My rating

This is the second book in the Desire 2-in-1, as above.

The heroine Callie and the hero Nick spend a night together, but Callie flees the next morning when she discovers exactly who Nick is. They met at the wedding of Callie's business partner, who is also her ex-fiance. Callie had spent the whole wedding convincing herself she needs to live in the now, hence the one-night stand. However, she didn't realise that Nick was the bride's brother, or that he is her company's newest client. She tries to forget about Nick, but finds it difficult especially as their one-night has left her pregnant. Nick has been searching for Callie as he has not been able to get her out of his mind, but he has had no luck finding her. His sister asks Nick to check out her new husband's business partner, as she is jealous, and Nick is delighted to discover it's Callie. He ends up taking over his brother-in-law's side of the business with Callie, and he hopes to explore what is between them. But Callie needs to prove that she can be independent and turns him down. However when Nick finds out about the pregnancy he sees this as his chance to get what he wants.

This is a well written and interesting book, I enjoyed it. The relationship between the hero and heroine is very sweet and there is plenty of chemistry. Their story is told well and is very engaging, as well as believable. The conflict and the story is a little 'well-used' but it is executed well and the story feels very modern.
This is my first Sandra Hyatt book (I believe this was also her first book) and I really enjoyed it, I will look to read her other books in the future. Sadly she passed away last year, I'm sure she will be greatly missed. RIP.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #285

2012-01-12T09:49:00.002Z

The Magnate's Baby Promise - Paula Roe
Mills & Boon Desire 2-in-1
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2011
ISBN: 9780263881837

My rating

From the back cover:

"For billionaire businessman Cal Prescott, there was no question. He'd marry and produce the requisite heir. And he wouldn't have to look far for the right bride—his one-night affair with Ava Reilly had left Cal's senses riled and Ava pregnant with his baby.
Sheer desperation had Ava agreeing to marry without love. She wanted her land as much as Cal wanted his corporation…and they both wanted their unborn child. Surely that would be enough to build a marriage on. That, and the burning passion that longed to be reawakened…."

I found this Desire 2-in-1 in the Kindle store recently.

In order to gain control of the company he has worked so hard for, the hero Cal needs to marry and have children before his stepbrother does. Although this condition has angered him, he luckily has a solution. He has tracked down the woman he had an unforgettable one night stand with a couple of months ago, and she is pregnant. The heroine Ava is doing her best to keep her Outback retreat afloat, but with the financial problems and her recently discovered pregnancy she is struggling to cope. When Cal comes to see her and offers her marriage as well as help for her business she reluctantly agrees. Although Cal still fiercely desires Ava, as far as he is concerned it is a marriage of convenience, for both of them, for business purposes as well as their baby. But that doesn't stop them from growing closer, even though each of them have past hurts that stop them from truly opening up to each other.

This is my first Paula Roe book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked reading how the relationship between the hero and heroine developed, it has a nice flow and feels very natural. The heroine is a good character, I really responded to her. Her flaws and conflict are well written and relatable. The hero is a little more difficult to understand, he seemed to vary in temperament a bit. But they worked well together, and there is plenty of sizzle.

Well written with a good, solid plot. I liked it. Deserves a better title though!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #284

2012-01-12T09:20:00.001Z

Cowboy with a Secret - Pamela Browning
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2001
ISBN: 9780373168743
Reissue - Harlequin Special Releases, 2011
eISBN: 9781459282711

My rating

From the back cover:

"Bethany Burke was intrigued by her new ranch hand—a man she'd ordered from a catalog! Strong, quiet Colt McClure had a way with animals and a past he never spoke of. The mystery only deepened when a baby girl arrived on the ranch doorstep—addressed to Colt!
Colt's lovely boss made him want to reveal his secret past—especially because Bethany thought he was the baby's father! True, the cowboy had a few closely guarded secrets, but being somebody's daddy wasn't one of them. The wrangler was desperate to reveal the truth—but baring his soul could mean losing his heart."

This is an older American Romance book that has recently been reissued as an ebook.

The heroine Bethany has been struggling to keep her ranch afloat, her new ranch hand Colt, the hero, arrives not a moment too soon. Although she recognises that Colt is a hard worker as well as a genuinely nice man, she also realises that he is keeping secrets. Colt begins to treasure the new life he has built for himself at Bethany's ranch, and he also feels an intense attraction towards Bethany. But after spending the last few years in prison, he is reluctant to open his heart or let his past out. However, the peace he has found on the ranch and with Bethany is shattered when an old friend leaves her baby Alyssa on Bethany's doorstep asking Colt to care for her. Bethany thinks Alyssa is Colt's baby and this upsets her as she was beginning to fall for him. But rather than tearing them apart, caring for the baby together brings Colt and Bethany closer and closer. Only Colt's secrets and past stand in the way of their happiness, and he doesn't know what Bethany's reaction will be.

I really enjoyed this book, I couldn't put it down. There is a really nice spirit to this book, a sort of family feel. The secondary characters are great and they help rather than hinder the progression of the story. Both the hero and heroine are well developed, complex, interesting, and flawed characters. They fit together perfectly and are able to grow as the story progresses. The plot itself is very compelling and beautifully written, the pace is flawless.

A great book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #283

2012-01-12T08:56:00.001Z

The Spaniard's Virgin Housekeeper - Diana Hamilton
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263869903

My rating

From the back cover:

"Innocent maid – taken by the billionaire!When Izzy Makepeace refused her lecherous boss’s advances he threw her out. Now vulnerable Izzy’s only hope is a housekeeper job with the powerful Garcia family!
Spanish billionaire Cayo Garcia thinks he’s seen Izzy’s type before – out for all she can get!But then her innocence surprises him – sweet Isabel is ripe for seduction. Cayo is used to having his demands met – and her position as housekeeper places her directly at his beck and call!"

I started reading this book a while ago but never got very far into it, but I thought I would give it another go...

The heroine Izzy finds herself alone in Spain and out of a job, her previous boss fired her after she refused his advances. Not willing to admit her predicaments to her family fearing their reaction she hopes to find another job. Izzy comes across an elderly man who looks in need of help, he eventually offers her a job as his housekeeper. Izzy enjoys her work, even though she gets paid very little, she also likes her new found independence and confidence, and she and her employer have become good friends. The hero Cayo is the grandson of Izzy's employer and he is not pleased when he hears about Izzy's employment. He immediately thinks she is a good digger taking advantage of his lonely grandfather. When he meets Izzy, Cayo is surprised by how much he likes her and wants to protect her as well as keeping her by his side.

Urgh, this is a bad book, really bad. The heroine and her actions are written as though she is some silly girl, she is totally juvenile in her actions and mannerisms and so frustratingly, er how to say this, dim! The way the heroine is portrayed I find a little insulting towards women. And the hero, groan, simply put he is an arrogant jerk. I couldn't warm to him at all.
I have no idea how the hero and heroine actually managed to fall for one another, as they barely spent any time together.
The writing is also a little difficult to like; it is quite unflattering towards the heroine and the pace feels very jumpy.

No sorry, I didn't like it. YMMV. Awful title too!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #282

2012-01-12T08:30:00.000Z

Every Girl's Secret Fantasy - Robyn Grady
Mills & Boon Modern Heat
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
ISBN: 9780263877465

My rating

From the back cover:

"Mechanic Pace Brodrick has stepped straight out of prim Phoebe's wildest fantasy - oil slicked and dangerously sexy, he's her perfect Mr. Right Now! Phoebe's long overdue on some excitement - and Pace's wicked smile guarantees she'll have the thrill of her life!
Then Pace discovers the temptress behind Phoebe's good-girl facade! She drives him wild - but will she want their fling to last forever when she discovers Pace has been lying to her all along? For this bad boy is actually a secret millionaire…."

I have had this book on my shelf for a while and never got round to reading it, so I thought I would give it a go.

The hero Pace spends his days working as a mechanic for an upmarket car manufacturer, but he is much more than a simple mechanic - he is the co-owner, an engineer, as well as a millionaire. The heroine Phoebe is a host on a local TV show and has met Pace a few times as his company, or the company he works for as she thinks, is one of the show's sponsors. Pace is very attracted to Phoebe and has asked her out a couple of times but disappointingly she has always turned him down. Phoebe is also very attracted to Pace, but a couple of bad relationships in the past has made her a little hesitant. She does eventually agree and she is wined, dined, and seduced in body and mind by Pace. The chemistry between them is fierce and their relationship moves pretty fast, Pace soon realises he wants more from Phoebe. But he still hasn't told her exactly who, and what, he is and with Phoebe's fear of being heartbroken again he doesn't know how to tell her.

I enjoyed this book. There is a really nice blend of aspiration (as you would expect from a Modern) and realism. Both the hero and heroine are likeable and strong characters, and their relationship is built beautifully by the author making it believable. It's also chock full of passion! There is also a bit of sadness in the book, which adds real depth to the story.

Overall this is a nice story that is an interesting read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #281

2012-01-11T11:53:00.000Z

A Night of Living Dangerously - Jennie Lucas
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890389

My rating

From the back cover:

"Like Cinderella at the ball...
Lilley's fairytale wish is about to be granted. She'll swap her grey suits for a fabulous dress and killer heels, and dance the night away with the man every other woman wants... but only for one night.
When the clock strikes twelve...
Alessandro Caetani does not do happy-ever-afters. In fact his charm extends only as far as getting his Little Mouse secretary into bed. Lilley has never taken such a risk before, but this is her night of living dangerously...
Who is going to call time on the fairytale ending?"

How gorgeous is this cover!

The heroine Lilley has had a horrible day after finding her boyfriend and flatmate in bed together. All she wants is a little peace and quiet to try and complete the work she is badly behind on. When Alessandro, the hero and owner of the company she works for, turns up he is surprised and a little pleased to find Lilley there. He has watched her around the workplace for a while, always with her head down, and he is more than a little intrigued by her. Alessandro asks Lilley to go with him to a charity ball and although she is rather reluctant she agrees feeling the need to escape from her problems for a night. The attraction and desire between them surprises both of them and they end up spending a very passionate weekend together. But Alessandro makes it clear it is only a weekend as he can't give her more, and Lilley is all for this. A few weeks later both of them are still thinking about each other, but Lilley is about to move away and Alessandro is about to announce his engagement so there is no future for them. But before Lilley leaves she needs to tell Alessandro she is pregnant.

As expected from Jennie Lucas, the plot of this book is intense and absorbing. There is a lot of chemistry between the hero and heroine and their interactions are full of heat, which really suits the book. Although they did seem to have an abnormal about of sex!
In a way, I do wish this hadn't been an accidental pregnancy plot book, but it is well written and interesting despite this.
Both the hero and heroine are believable and likeable, and they work well together. The hero did behave a bit badly at first, but it works.

Emotional and interesting, this is an enjoyable, solid book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #280

2012-01-11T11:21:00.001Z

Ruthless Boss, Dream Baby - Susan Stephens
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2011
ISBN: 9780263886252

My rating

From the back cover:

"Wanted in the bedroom... not the boardroom!
Magenta knows having a new employer might be tricky. But she isn't expecting the old fashioned ruthlessness of Gray Quinn! However, plucky Magenta is up for the challenge, and tries to play the distractingly gorgeous Quinn at his own game...
Quinn is no New Man: he wants temptingly innocent Magenta in his bedroom, not the boardroom. But he can make her no promises. He'll give her the night of her life, but he might not be there when she wakes up... And he definitely doesn't want her taking maternity leave!"

This book has a great title and cover.

The heroine Magenta is busy preparing for a meeting with the new owner of the advertising agency she works for. After working all night she falls asleep on her desk, but when she wakes up everything around her is different. It seems that she has woken up in the 60's and her job is no longer there, instead she is the office secretary and the new boss Gray, the hero, is every but as domineering as expected. However, they both feel as connection and spend a lot of time together, eventually leading to pregnancy. Magenta is blissfully happy, but worries that the happiness she has found will soon be all over when/if she wakes up.

I almost didn't want to write this review, I hate being negative, and this is not going to be pretty. Simply put, I couldn't stand this book. First things first, the blurb does not give any indication of the actual events in this book, I would not have chosen it if so, and this is annoyingly misleading. Secondly, the most of what happens in this book is in a dream. It would have been fine if the dream had been only a small part of the book, but it wasn't, I found it very unappealing. Thirdly, the whole sixties setting would have been fun had it not felt like a complete rip-off of Mad Men. Ignoring all of the that, I still didn't like the book. I could go on for while, but I am going to stop now.

For me, this is an awful book. Of course YMMV.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #279

2012-01-11T10:54:00.000Z

The Salvatore Marriage Deal - Natalie Rivers
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2008
ISBN: 9780373127351

N.B The above details refer to the North American release of this book.

My rating

From the back cover:

"The ruthless Italian tycoon and his pregnant mistress…
Powerful and arrogant, Vito Salvatore thinks Lily Chase is different from the women he normally beds. But when she tells him she's pregnant, he calls her a gold digger and throws her out!
A marriage by arrangement!
But now Vito needs a Salvatore heir. So he'll take Lily as his convenient bride!"

This is another book that I have had on my kindle for a while and never got round to reading. This is my first Natalie Rivers book.

When the heroine Lily tells the hero Vito that she is pregnant, she is shocked that his reaction to the news is to throw her out. A couple of months later Vito sees Lily again, working once more in the job she gave up to be with him and not looking well. Despite the fact that he believes she slept with another man, he can't get her out of his mind and he still fiercely desires her. Vito's beloved grandfather is seriously ill and Vito knows how much he wants to see Vito settled. He asks Lily to marry him thinking he will be able to kill two birds with one stone, and after his grandfather passes then he can divorce her. Naturally he doesn't tell Lily this, and she thinks he has finally realised that she is carrying his baby and she is happy that they are going to be a family. Everything seems fine at first, the passion between them is still as hot as ever, but as the months pass Lily begins to realise that Vito doesn't ever want to talk about the baby and refuses to open up to her. Which hurts her as she has given everything of herself to him.

I enjoyed this book, it has a nice, well written story that maximises the use of many traditional plot elements. The hero is a well developed character; complex and interesting, as well as caring. There is a lot of passion between the hero and heroine, and it really suits the mood of the story. The pace is just about perfect for the story, and it allowed the relationship to develop gradually, which felt very natural. There is a nice bit grovelling from the hero at the end, and that is always good!

A good read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #278

2012-01-11T10:31:00.000Z

One For The Road - Crystal Green
Mills & Boon Blaze
Originally published - Harlequin, 2008
Reissue - Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
eISBN: 9781408932452

N.B The above eISBN relates to the Mills & Boon Blaze backlist reissue (UK). The cover image is from the original publication.

My rating

From the back cover:

"A dull job, boring relationships.
Life was a yawn when Lucy Christie decided to hit the road with her best friend. But she didn't know just how much her dream vacation - a drive down Route 66 in search of no-questions-asked, guilt-free sexual encounters - would shake things up. Her first conquest was Joshua, a cowboy with fancy boots and hips made for sin, a man who filled in every gap in her previously limited sexual education.
In fact, he was so good, Lucy regretted having to give him up. But when she tried moving on to the next 'drive-by seduction' her demanding lover tagged along...intent on seducing her stop after stop!"

I saw this cheap in the Kindle store and really liked the sound of the blurb!

The heroine Lucy and her friend set out on a road trip in order to get away from their boring lives and have a bit of fun. Although Lucy's idea of fun means a meticulously planned out trip. One thing she was not counting on though is meeting sexy-as-sin Joshua, the hero. Joshua is taking some time out after a few disappointments in his life recently. As soon as he sees Lucy he is captivated by her and when they, accidentally, meet up at the same motel later they end up having a very passionate encounter. Joshua is surprised by how much he is drawn to Lucy, and convinces her to spend more time with him over the course of his trip. But he finds it frustrating that Lucy seems unwilling to open up to him. Once Lucy let's go of her need for planning she realises she actually likes the freedom. Fearing another crappy relationship she tries really hard to keep her feelings for Joshua on a strictly fun basis.

I enjoyed this book, and the idea of the road trip part is great fun. The blurb is a little misleading though, so it didn't turn out quite as I expected. I liked both characters; they were nicely written and had some great chemistry. The love scenes lacked emotion and felt a little gratuitous at times, but they were very steamy - as you would expect from a Blaze.
There is a subplot of the heroine's friend meeting someone, which I found a little boring and it took much needed focus away from the main relationship.

I did like the blend of sadness and fun the author used in this book, and it is an enjoyable read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #277

2012-01-11T09:58:00.000Z

Innocent Wife, Baby of Shame - Melanie Milburne
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2008
ISBN: 9780373127191

N.B The above details refer to the North American release of this book.

My rating

From the back cover:

"For Patrizio Trelini, everything points to Keira Worthington's infidelity. The ruthless Italian throws his temptress wife out - he won't listen to her lies!But, two months later, necessity brings Keira back into Patrizio's life, and into his bed, although his heart remains cold.
With her marriage revived, Keira has one last chance to prove her innocence. But she's just discovered she's pregnant! Will Patrizio accept the truth - that Keira's having his child?"

I am a big fan of Melanie Milburne's books, so I was looking forward to reading this one.

The heroine Keira is trying hard to move on with her life, even though she knows she is the one who ruined it. She is certainly not expecting her soon-to-be-ex husband Patrizio, the hero, to come and see her. Patrizio can never forgive Keira for what she did, yet a situation has led him to ask her for a brief, pretend reconciliation. Keira struggles with her shame over her actions even though she can't actually remember what happened. Patrizio's scorn towards her hurts, but she takes it knowing she deserves it. Patrizio is pretty sure he hates Keira but he can't ignore the fact that he still fiercely desires her. Keira realises that the damage has been done to their marriage, but when she finds out that she is pregnant she is determined to find out exactly what happened. But when she does it is even more heartbreaking for her.

This is a difficult review to write, there are quite a few bad reviews of this book so I started reading this one with a bit of trepidation. This is certainly not a book for everyone. There is a lot of anger and sadness in this book, and that creates a very intense mood. But, I actually liked it. Yes, the hero acts badly towards the heroine, but I think this is totally understandable and realistic, after what had happened between them. The hero is hurting, and I think the author did a good job of showing this. The heroine might seem like she is a doormat, but I thought she was quite mature in accepting the blame. What these two characters go through in this book, individually and together, is filled with despair as well as realism, and the story is a very true representation of what can happen to people and a marriage after adultery.
What let's this book down hugely is the situation that causes the hero to suggest the reconciliation - it is really lame!

A sad and traumatic story about a marriage in crisis that I found absorbing from start to finish.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #276

2012-01-11T09:23:00.000Z

Claiming His Wedding Night - Lee Wilkinson
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2010
ISBN: 9780263877823

My rating

From the back cover:

"Perdita Boyd must save her family's business and protect her ailing father. So what's she to do when the only investor to step forward is Jared Dangerfield? Her husband!
Young and in love, Perdita married Jared in a secret ceremony against her father's wishes. But the marriage was never consummated, as on their wedding night, Perdita caught Jared in bed with another woman.
Now Jared is back.to take the business, to take his revenge for being set up, and - to take his wife!"

I think this is my first Lee Wilkinson book, so I grabbed it when I saw it cheap in the kindle store.

The heroine Perdita is trying hard to keep her families business running, but is shocked to discover her last chance means she will have to negotiate with Jared, the hero and her ex-husband. Perdita and Jared had a very passionate whirlwind relationship a few years back and she had married Jared despite disapproval from her family. After they were married Perdita was called back when her father was taken ill, and when she came back to Jared she found another woman in his bed. Perdita had fled heartbroken and later sent him divorce papers wanting to move on with her life.
Jared informs her that he never signed the divorce papers, therefore they are still married. Hoping to be able to convince Jared into helping save the company as well as getting him to agree to a divorce she goes with him to his home. It's clear that the passion between them has never died, but Perdita has never been able to get over her heartbreak at Jared's betrayal and promises never to trust him again.

What I enjoyed about this book is the relative simplicity of the plot. The plot is a traditional and well used one, but this is a solidly written book with a nice pace. The relationship between the hero and heroine feels very natural and it the gradualness of it is satisfying to read.

There is nothing really bad to be said about this book; it is simply a nice, quick, and easy read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #275

2012-01-11T09:00:00.000Z

The Brazilian Millionaire's Love-Child - Anne Mather
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263874242

My rating

From the back cover:

"She’s fought to keep their child a secret…
Isobel has never forgotten the night Brazilian millionaire Alejandro Cabral took her virginity. The image of Alejandro’s dark, sexy body has left a lifelong impression on her – as did his seed… He will never know he has a little daughter…
Until three years later, when Isobel is led right back to Alejandro – and she’s shocked. He’s a changed man. He’s still utterly sexy, but a terrible car accident has left him scarred, brooding and bitter. What’s more, he’s deliberately lured Isobel to Brazil because he knows all about his child…"

I really like Anne Mather's books, so I wanted to give this one a go.

The hero Alejandro meets the heroine Isobel at a party in her apartment. He is immediately captivated by her grace and seemingly inner sadness. Isobel is still hurting after the breakdown of her marriage, so she is surprised by how much she desires Alejandro. However just after they spend an afternoon together, Alejandro is called back to Brazil on an emergency. He promises to come back to Isobel soon, but he never does. Three years later, Isobel is on her way to Brazil to interview a famous author for the magazine she works for. But she is shocked when she is met by Alejandro, and even more shocked when he tells her he knows about their daughter. Alejandro has waited for so long to see Isobel again, and he desperatly wants to be a part of Isobel and his daughter's lives. But he is worried that Isobel will be repulsed by the permant injuries and scars he now carries after a car crash. Isobel doesn't know what to think about Alejandro being back in her life. Her heart had been crushed when she waited for him to return and now she is afraid to trust him again.

I really enjoyed this book; it has plenty of mystery and emotion, as well as a solid, well executed premise. I liked that the hero didn't resort to blackmail tactics, and that he already knew about his 'secret' child. It's different to the usual secret baby books, and that makes it that little bit more enjoyable in my opinion. I also felt the hero genuinely cared for the heroine, he was sigh-worthy! The book is very passionate and very well crafted. It has a nice flow and manages to feel both gentle and fast paced.

Very enjoyable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #274

2012-01-11T08:37:00.000Z

All That Remains - Janice Kay Johnson
Harlequin Superromance
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373717361

N.B This is a North American release.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Wren Fraser can think of better times to go into labor. Say, when she's not on the run, or when there's a hospital nearby. Better yet, when there's not a major flood trapping her in an abandoned house. She needs a rescue…now!
It arrives in one Alec Harper. Strong, competent and good-looking, the detective keeps her safe and doesn't leave her side. He even takes in Wren and the baby when they have no place to go.
For a woman wanting her independence, it's shocking how quickly she settles in with Alec. The situation seems a bit too domestic. And the sizzling attraction between them is making things worse. She keeps telling herself to walk away, yet she can't. Or should that be, she doesn't want to?"

I bought a bunch of North American releases recently and this is one of them. The cover is so cheesy!

The heroine Wren is trying to drive through a torrential storm to get to the safety of her friends house. However, her car gets caught in a flood and she is forced into taking shelter in the attic of an abandoned home to avoid the rising water levels. To make matters worse she is in labour. The hero Alec has been working non stop for the last couple of days to help rescue people who are trapped due to the storm, he is about to give up when he sees Wren. Unfortunately, his boat and rescue equipment are swept away in the storm and he ends up trapped as well. They are there for a couple of days and during that time Alec helps deliver Wren's beautiful daughter, as well as getting to know one another. Wren admits to Alec that she is running from her abusive ex boyfriend and fearing for her and her baby's lives if he finds them. After they are finally rescued Alec offers Wren protection and somewhere to stay with him. But it backfires on him as being with Wren and her daughter reminds him of his marriage and how much he misses his own daughters. With Alec's help, Wren slowly begins to rediscover her self worth and confidence, as well as falling in love with Alec. But Alec refuses to open up to her, and Wren also knows she needs to prove to herself that she can take care of herself.

This is a totally compelling book, that feels very real. Everything about this book is natural and the story flows beautifully. The beginning of the book is quite dramatic and fast paced, but then the story slows to a very gentle pace that really helps develop the conflict and build the tension in the relationship. Both the hero and heroine are glorious in their lack of being perfect; they are flawed characters, and they both grow as the story progresses. The relationship is believable as it develops slowly and the characters do not rush into anything. I especially liked that when love was admitted they didn't immediately get their HEA, instead the characters went their own way, and this makes their eventual HEA even more sweet.

This is a gritty, real, and sweetly satisfying book. I really liked it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #273

2012-01-11T08:11:00.000Z

The Greek Tycoon's Unexpected Wife - Annie West
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263863987

My rating

From the back cover:

"Stavros Denakis is furious when Tessa Marlowe turns up without warning. Weary and cynical through his experience with women, Stavros suspects the wife he hardly knows is a gold digger—surely she's here to claim her share of the Denakis millions. But Tessa is a temptation that he can't resist….
Bedded by her gorgeous Greek husband, Tessa realizes she has fallen in love with him, and longs for their marriage to become real. Only, Stavros, though he may be passionate in private, remains cold in public, and is determined they stay wedded only in name…"

Another kindle book.

The hero Stavros is about to attend a party at his home where his engagement will be officially announced. Not that he is looking forward to it, after all it is simply a marriage for business purposes. However, he is shocked when he is informed that a woman called Tessa, the heroine, has turned up at his home. Four years ago Stavros had been doing aid work in a civil war torn country when he had heard about an Australian woman who had been imprisoned. In order to have her freed, he had pretended to be her fiancé and they married, however before they had a chance to leave a bomb had devastated the area and he believed Tessa had died. Stavros listens in horror as Tessa tells him about the last four years where she had been sheltered at a convent and has only now been able to escape. Tessa had been on her way back to Australia when she had seen an article in a magazine about the man whom saved her life whom she thought was dead. Stavros is stressed with the situation; he has a wife and a fiancée and no idea how to extract himself for either one. His frustration initially causes him to think that Tessa wants money and he makes it clear to her that she will get nothing from him. All Tessa had wanted was to thank him for saving her life and return a family heirloom of his she had kept with her all these years. Now she finds herself virtually trapped in his home while he tries to work out a way to divorce her. Neither of them are expecting the desire of want that flares up between them, nor are they expecting how much they would begin to care for one another.

Whew, this is a rollercoaster of a book. The premise is very original and quite brave of the author. In my opinion everything was very well executed; the writing is evocative and full of tension, plus there is plenty of compassion for both characters. The sexual chemistry between the hero and heroine virtually bounces off the pages. And the love story between them is believable.
The heroine Tessa is simply brilliant; she is so strong and positive even after all she has been through. I liked the hero, but I really wish that he didn't constantly think that the heroine is a gold digger. There was no reason for this to be included and it just seemed like the author used this as a way of getting even more conflict in the book.

Overall, this is a beautiful, intense and emotional book.

Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #272

2012-01-07T11:48:00.000Z

Footprints in the Snow - Cassie Miles
Mills & Boon Intrigue
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2007
ISBN: 9780263859256

My rating

From the back cover:

"It was a powerful Rocky Mountain blizzard that caught scientist Shana Parisi unawares and threw her into the arms of a mysterious man in uniform. Luke Rawlins rescued her from danger, but it was the mesmerizing look in his eyes that captured her heart...and forged their destiny.
Luke knew bringing the beautiful Shana home posed a threat to his secrets, but a foreign enemy was hot on their trail and Shana's snowy footprints were all they needed to track her down. Once entrenched in his world, Luke urged her to remain silent about what she saw. Because the alternative could be deadly..."

It has been a long timer since my last Intrigue.

The heroine Shana is caught in a blizzard while out skiing, after falling and hitting her head she wakes up in a small mountain cabin. The hero Luke found and rescued her, however they are both confused over each others mannerisms. Shana is shocked, and a little bemused when Luke informs her that the year is 1945. So despite finding Luke devastatingly attractive she decides he must be crazy, and she leaves the the safety of the cabin to go back to her hotel. However, when she comes to the gates of a military base that should no longer be there she begin to believe that she has, somehow, time travelled. Before she has a chance to even think about it she is caught and accused of being a spy, but is once again rescued by Luke and taken into the base. There Shana meets the physicist Enrico Fermi and realises he is there doing research for the Manhattan Project. Fearing her time travel may result in the past being altered, Shana helps to make sure the project carries on by offering her skills as a geologist. During this time she and Luke begin to grow closer, and when a threat against the project becomes serious, they work together to try and eliminate it.

Paranormal-type books are not really my thing so I wouldn't have normally chosen this book. Annoyingly the blurb does not give any indication of the time travel bit, so I felt a little mislead. But I am glad I read it, as I found it quite interesting. The plot is a little, well a lot, implausible (and I'm not talking about time travel here) and quite predictable and I think it doesn't quite live up to what this could be. I think, perhaps, the plot/subject is a little too ambitious for category fiction. I really enjoyed reading all the history and information given by the author, she has certainly done her research. Which is great, but I was reading a romance book, not a non-fiction book. There isn't enough of the hero and heroine as characters or the actual romance included to really believe the relationship, which is a shame. I liked the HEA, but was totally confused by the time travel thing and how the HEA was possible.

I had a few ethical issues around the heroine constantly saying how important the Manhattan Project is/was... but I guess to have it otherwise would be even more ambitious, plus all those space/time continuum issues! Always the hippy!

This is an intriguing book; interesting to read but disappointing on a few levels.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #271

2012-01-06T11:32:00.000Z

Just Dare Me... - Stephanie Bond
Mills & Boon Blaze
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263862003

My rating

From the back cover:

"Marketing exec Gabrielle Flannery isn't what you'd call the outdoorsy type. But after an embarrassing incident with a potted plant leaves Gabrielle revealing more leg than a Thanksgiving turkey, she decides it's time to reassert herself. Even if it means going head-to-head with marketing golden boy and the office Hottie McHot, Dell Kingston, over an outdoor gear account...
That is, until Gabrielle and Dell find themselves competing against each other for the account at a wilderness survival weekend. Since he's in touch with the great outdoors, Dell figures that naturally extends to Gabrielle and those sexy legs of hers.... But Gabrielle has a few tricks up her sleeve. And nothing stimulates a sexual appetite like a little fresh air, a tiny little tent and a whole lot of libido!"

This is one I have had on my shelf for ages, I really like the cover and sound of this one.

The heroine Gabby is tired of not being taken seriously at the advertising firm she works for, and decides to make herself more assertive and go after an account she is desperate for. The hero Dell, a somewhat golden boy of the firm, also wants the account. Their boss decides that they should compete against each other at the wilderness survival weekend run by the company whose account the want. Dell knows that small, delicate Gabby doesn't stand a chance especially against him as he spends most of his free time doing this kind of outdoor activities. Yet there is something about Gabby that he finds totally alluring, and makes him feel a little protective. As the competition gets underway it seems Dell's overconfidence made him underestimate Gabby and she does surprisingly well. Gabby knows she is pushing herself to the limit but desperately wants to prove herself. What surprises both of them is how close they become and the undeniable attraction between them. Dell realises he wants more with Gabby but it is either the account or her, as neither of them want to give in.

This is a brilliantly entertaining book, with and interesting and fun plot. The situations the hero and heroine are involved in are wonderfully written, I was totally absorbed. The heroine is the star of this book; I loved her quirks and her will to push herself to get what she wants. The hero constantly getting knocked down from his arrogance and overconfidence is hilarious and so very entertaining to read.
I enjoyed this book up until the last quarter, and then it just lost it's way. The hero stabs the heroine in the back in such an awful way and then makes it seem like he is being a saint when he decides to step aside, it just ends up sounding incredibly patronising. I desperately wanted to heroine to fight back, but disappointingly, she didn't

A fantastic book, up to a point...

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #270

2012-01-06T11:06:00.000Z

Pregnancy of Passion - Lucy Monroe
Harlequin Presents
Harlequin, 2006
ISBN: 9780373125906

N.B The above details refer to the North American release of this book.

My rating

From the back cover:

"It was a year since their tempestuous affair had ended. So why was he back? Elisa trusted Salvatore di Vitale as far as she could throw him. And, as the wealthy Sicilian was over six feet tall, that wasn't very far.
Salvatore told Elisa he had come to protect her. And if their close proximity led to passion...and if passion should lead to pregnancy...all the better! Because then Elisa would have to marry him, which was Salvatore's plan all along."

Another from the Kindle pile!

The heroine Elisa is not pleased when the hero Salvatore turns up at the jewellery store she works for. It reminds her too much of the pain she experienced a year ago when Salvatore had cruelly left her and she had later suffered a traumatic miscarriage. Salvatore has never forgiven himself for the cruel way he treated Elisa when he didn't believe her about the pregnancy, and he searched high and low for her when Elisa seemingly disappeared after her ordeal. Now she has come back, and with a threat against the store he spots his chance to try and win her back while also providing her with security. When they end up being locked in the store's safe overnight, it is pretty clear that the passion that was always between them is still alive and well. In the days following their night together he does everything he can to show her how sorry he is as well as his love for her, but Elisa doesn't know if she can ever trust Salvatore with her heart again.

Wow, this is a wonderful book. I could hardly put it down. The passion between the hero and heroine is intense yet also incredibly romantic. Elisa and Salvatore's story is full of such deep love that my heart wanted to melt, yet it also has so much pain that my heart was also breaking. Both characters are fantastic; the hero is the ultimate alpha-male, he has moments of being a little cruel or too dominant but this is balanced with such a gorgeous tenderness. The heroine is strong despite all her sadness, I couldn't help but like her.

I adored the mix of pain and joy in this book, it is captivating to read. Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #269

2012-01-06T10:25:00.000Z

Falcon's Prey - Penny Jordan
Mills & Boon Romance
Originally published - Mills & Boon, 1981
Reissue - Harlequin UK, 2011
eISBN: 9781408952504

N.B This book has been reissued many times, the above eISBN relates to the most recent UK reissue in ebook form. The cover image is from the original release.

My rating

From the back cover:

"Englishwoman Felicia Gordon should be floating on air. After all, she's engaged to a man who is kind, charming, considerate...
But he doesn't inspire the least amount of passion in her blood. It isn't until Felicia flies to Kuwait to meet her fiance's family that she finds the electricity she's been missing - in her fiance's uncle, Sheikh Raschid al Hamid al Sabah! Raschid is hardly the "uncle" she imagined - tall, powerful, unnervingly masculine and shockingly arrogant. But beneath Raschid's contempt lies a passion that burns hotter than the desert sun, a fire Felicia never knew she craved...until now."

I decided to buy and read this book as a tribute to Penny Jordan.

The heroine Felicia has been seeing Faisal for a while and they both hope to marry, however Faisal comes from a traditional Arab family and fears that they will not approve. Felicia travels to Kuwait to meet Faisal's family and hopefully gain their approval for marriage, especially the approval from Faisal's uncle Raschid, the hero, whom is the head of the family. However when she meets Raschid it is clear that he has a very poor opinion of her. As time passes, Felicia struggles to deal with the almost constant scorn from Raschid, the restrictions on her actions as a woman in the East, as well as her worry that her relationship with Faisal isn't at all what it should be. But she falls in love with the country and it's beauty, and soon realises that beneath her hostility to the way Raschid treats her is a fierce desire for him. As her love grows Felicia knows that he will never love her back and that her time in the country that has touched her heart will soon be over.

This is an intense, almost suspenseful, book and one that is exactly what Penny Jordan does best. Considering this book was written in 1981, it is quite a forward book. It also deals with the differences between east and west cultures really well. Raschid is the perfect 'classic' Mills & Boon hero; he treads the line between cruel and kind, and is so very smouldering that he really makes the sexual tension in this book thick. The heroine did have a propensity for self-pity, but I found her quite endearing. Throughout the book, I really couldn't see how these two would ever find a way to be together, and that is what makes this a brilliant book, it keeps you guessing.

It is hard to believe that this was Penny Jordan's first book, it is so accomplished! She will be missed.

RIP Penny.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #268

2012-01-06T09:48:00.001Z

Salzano's Captive Bride - Daphne Clair
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2009
ISBN: 9780263872163

My rating

From the back cover:

"At the mercy of the Venezuelan billionaire!
Marco Salzano is furious! One moment of passion in the sultry heat of curnaval has its price. Burning with suspicion and anger; the arrogant Venezuelan is going to track down his errant one-night stand and claim his Love-child. But he's accusing the wrong woman.
Pretending to be her sister, fragile Amber convinces Marco that the baby in question is not his. But whenMarco discovers the deception he vows to take Amber not as his mistress but as his bride!"

Another from the forgotten ebook pile!

The hero Marco arrives at the heroine Amber's home demanding to see his son. Amber has no idea who he is and why he seems to think she has his son, until Marco calms down enough to show her a letter he thinks is from her. The letter is actually from Amber's rather irresponsible sister, whom had a one-night stand with Marco a few years back and she doesn't know for sure who the father of her little boy is. Amber's sister regrets sending the letter and asks Amber to pretend it was a lie, but Marco is not fooled. But he does agree not to pursue the paternity issue if Amber will marry him. Amber agrees and goes with him to his home in Venezuela, but she struggles to settle in as well as finding it difficult to trust Marco. Marco tries his best to help Amber adjust, as well as giving her time to get used to the desire that is between them. He has waited so long to have a wife and family to cherish, and he cares for Amber so he doesn't want to scare her away. But Amber still can't help feeling trapped, even as her feelings for Marco grow.

I can understand why this book has a few bad reviews, it is certainly a little 'out there', but I really liked it. I thought the hero had a wonderful blend of true alpha-ness and compassion. Amber was a little weak as a heroine, but I did kind of like her. The plot itself is a little silly in it's farfetchedness but it is also interesting and quite emotional to read. The surroundings of Venezuelan nature are beautifully described and full of richness.

This is a sweet, complex, and emotional book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #267

2012-01-04T12:50:00.000Z

The Millionaire's Love-Child - Elizabeth Power
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Love-Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2004
ISBN: 9780263837728

My rating

From the back cover:

"The boss's baby...
When Annie Talbot discovers her son was accidentally swapped at birth, it's every mother's worst nightmare... More so when she finds out that her powerfully sexy ex-boss Brant Cadman has her child - and she his!
When he discovers the mix-up Brant makes Annie a proposition that's hard to resist - marry him. Annie knows only too well that both their sons need parents. And she knows that she and Brant have a sexual chemistry that cannot be ignored - because once they had a one-night stand..."

This is the third book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The heroine Annie is shocked and devastated to learn that her beloved son is not actually her's after a mix up at the hospital where she gave birth, which led to a baby switch. To make matters worse the person whose baby she has, and who has her's, is Brant, the hero, whom is her former boss and one time one-night-stand. It is a very difficult and emotional time for both of them, and Brant offers Annie support. He has never forgotten the night they spent together, at the time he had wanted to continue seeing her but the next morning Annie had left and he had later discovered his ex-girlfriend was pregnant. They both know that their son's need parents, Brant asks Annie to marry him knowing that the chemistry between them is still there. Annie is confused over her feelings towards Brant and the very stressful recent events, plus anguished about the secret she is keeping from Brant.

This is a very, very emotional book and I thought it was quite enjoyable. The baby-switch plot is a little implausible but I think it was written well and believable, in a way. The interaction between the hero and heroine is perfect for the overall mood of the book. I really felt their relationship was real, and that they grew as characters as the story progressed. And I have to say that this was so refreshing to read as it didn't have your usual hero-blackmailing-heroine plot.

A very emotional and poignant book. Awful title though...

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #266

2012-01-04T12:40:00.000Z

The Spaniard's Love-Child - Kim Lawrence
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Love-Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861303

My rating

From the back cover:

"He wants her for one night only...
Spanish billionaire Raul Carreras is used to getting what he wants: Nell Rose will be his for one night, and for his pleasure!
...and then she becomes pregnant with his child!
Raul's red-hot seduction is impossible to resist. But when Nell falls pregnant with her Spanish lover's child, will she tell him?"

This is the second book in the By Request omnibus, as above.

The hero Raul is frantically searching for his missing niece and nephew and he eventually tracks them down at the heroine Nell's, where they had run away to. Nell used to be their nanny, and had been good friends with their father, Raul's brother. Raul has never approved of Nell as he always thought that she and his brother were having an affair, however he knows the children have been having trouble adjusting after the death of their father so he asks Nell to care for them once again. Nell agrees despite her nervousness over Raul's very obvious dislike for her. Soon Raul realises he is drawn to Nell and very attracted to her. They end up indulging in the desire between them, and Raul is shocked and humbled to learn that he has been wrong about Nell all along. Nell, however, is confused over her feelings for Raul, and thinking he is involved with someone else she leaves without word. She later discovers she is pregnant but decides to go it alone, having no idea that Raul has been looking for her.

This is a bit of a frustrating book. The plot idea is interesting and I think it had potential to be really good, but it didn't live up to expectation. I found the hero rather cruel to the heroine, and since he had a girlfriend/companion already his pursuit of the heroine was really crappy. The heroine is a little too doormat-y for me and everything seemed so melodramatic and silly. The story itself is, well, dull.

Sadly disappointing.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #265

2012-01-04T10:59:00.003Z

The Greek Tycoon's Love-Child - Jacqueline Baird
Mills & Boon Modern
In 'His Love-Child' Mills & Boon By Request
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2008
ISBN: 9780263861303

My rating

From the back cover:

"Bedded, then wedded - by the Greek tycoon!
When millionaire Theodore Kadros first sets his sights on beautiful Willow Blain there can only ever be one outcome: a night of incredible desire! But the next day Willow is gone...
However, their brief passion results in a legacy that Willow is eager to conceal. When the Greek tycoon discovers the shocking truth, he is enraged. Theo demands they marry, so he can have what he feels is rightfully his - Willow as his wife... and at his mercy!"

This is the first book in the By Request omnibus, as above. And another one of those unread ebooks on my kindle!

The story begins with the hero Theo arriving home to discover his sister having a party, it is there he meets the heroine Willow. Theo is enthralled by Willow's gentle and shy nature and they spend the night together. However, circumstance and the actions of Theo's ex cause Willow to leave, and Theo is left frustrated as he felt that there was something between him and Willow. Ten years later and Theo is beyond pleased to see Willow again and surprised to learn that she is a very successful writer now. Willow can't hider her shock, and fear, at seeing Theo again and she is even more shocked when he tells her he wants to have a relationship with her. But Willow's skittish behaviour arouses Theo's suspicions and he is livid when he discovers she has a son, his son. He wants to be a part of his son's life and he knows in his heart that he and Willow belong together. But Willow finds it difficult to trust him again despite the passion between them.

I really enjoyed this book, it is full of emotion and very well written. I adored the hero Theo, he is totally alpha and yes, at times, he behaved badly but I really felt he cared for the heroine and wanted a chance to fall in love with her. Willow is an interesting heroine, quite complex with a very shy and introverted personality, I really responded to her. OK, the plot is a little clichéd, but it is done really well.

Overall, this is an interesting and well written book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #264

2012-01-04T10:43:00.000Z

Overnight Sensation - Karen Foley
Mills & Boon Blaze
Harlequin Mills & Boon, 2007
ISBN: 9780263881295

My rating

From the back cover:

"Actress Ivy James is finally getting her big break!
She's been cast as the lead in a steamy blockbuster movie, a sizzling flick based on war hero Garrett Stokes's military— and sexual—experiences behind enemy lines. In the role, Ivy will be required to shoot a lot of on-screen sex scenes with her costar, one of Hollywood's top hunks. Unfortunately for Ivy, the only guy who can get her motor running is the technical consultant—Garrett himself!
Garrett has been secretly in love with Ivy for years.In fact, it was only his infatuation with her that got him through all those months in a military hospital. So when Ivy asks him to show her just how good the sex was, how can he resist? But will she still want to share his bed when she learns that Garrett's lust for her was the only reason she got the part?"

I have a bunch of books on my kindle that I bought during the summer and never got round to reading... oops! I'm going to try and work my way through them instead of buying more in the very tempting kindle sale!

The heroine Ivy arrives in Mexico to start filming a movie role of her dreams, although her arrive is less than pleasant after having to get on a deathtrap of a bus out to the middle of nowhere, and then her luggage goes missing. Waiting for her at the location is the hero Garrett, an ex special ops agent whose escape from a South American drug cartel is the subject of the movie. Garrett has been waiting for his chance to meet Ivy ever since he first saw her meet her injured brother in a military hospital where Garrett was recovering. Although the event never actually happened, Ivy is to play the supposed love interest of Garrett's character. When she struggles to get her character right she asks for Garrett's help. Their attraction to one another is fierce and pretty soon they give into their desire. However, Ivy still has not idea about Garrett's love for her and the role he playing in her getting the part.

I really enjoyed this book, it literally ticked all the boxes of what makes a good Blaze. I thought the hero and heroine bounced of each other well; their interactions are entertaining and the passion is blazing (no pun intended)! I simply adored the hero, sigh, he was so open and giving to the heroine, and his love for her felt totally genuine. The plot is fantastic, so well thought out and interesting. The start reminded me of Romancing the Stone and had me laughing!

This book manages to be both hot and tender at the same time, and I loved it!

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #263

2012-01-04T10:21:00.000Z

Busted in Bollywood - Nicola Marsh
Women's Fiction
Entangled Publishing, 2011
ISBN: 9781937044633
eISBN: 9781937044626

My rating

From the back cover:

"Shari Jones needs to get a life. Preferably someone else’s.
Single, homeless and jobless, Indo-American Shari agrees to her best friend’s whacky scheme: travel to Mumbai, pose as Amrita, and ditch the fiancé her traditional Indian parents have chosen. Simple. Until she’s mistaken for a famous Bollywood actress, stalked by a Lone Ranger wannabe, courted by an English lord, and busted by the blackmailing fiancé.
Life is less complicated in New York.
Or so she thinks, until the entourage of crazies follows her to the Big Apple and that’s when the fun really begins. Shari deals with a blossoming romance, an addiction to Indian food and her first movie role, while secretly craving another trip to the mystical land responsible for sparking her new lease on life. Returning to her Indian birthplace, she has an epiphany. Maybe the happily-ever-after of her dreams isn’t so far away?"

Nicola Marsh very kindly sent me a copy of this to read and review. Thank you, Nicola.

The heroine Shari agrees to go to Mumbai and pose as her best friend Rita, and use her brashness in an attempt to scare off Rita's arranged fiancé. However an idea that initially seems a hoot soon turns into a bit of a headache for Shari. Not only does she have Rita's crazy Aunt constantly feeding her delicious yet fattening food, but Rita's intended Rakesh has figured out the plan and agrees to go along with it providing Shari will introduce him to Rita. Rakesh's business partner Drew, the hero, also knows Shari is faking it as Rita but seems to think she is some sort of con-artist/gold-digger. And if that is not enough Shari has also gained an admirer whom thinks she is a famous Bollywood actress. All this results in Shari having an amazing, if rather crazy, time discovering her Indian roots whilst landing a part as an extra, and falling in love with Drew.

I thoroughly enjoyed this, a lot more than I thought I would. The plot is so quirky that it is rip-roaringly fun to read. I love the eclecticness (is that a word?!) of the situations Shari seems to find herself in. Fun is the word here, and the entire book is! The romance is nice, but what is most special about this book is the solid friendship between Shari and Rita that is constant throughout the book.
The first person narrative is full of snark and self-deprecation that is humorous and witty, and I found it highly entertaining to read. The heroine's nickname habit did get on my nerves after a while, but I think it fit her zany character well. The culture and surroundings of Mumbai are beautifully described, and the food sounds mouthwatering!
Shari really does go on a journey, both a literal one and one of self-discovery and enjoyed every minute of it with her.

Nicola Marsh has done a fab job of writing a fun, rom-come style book that is very endearing.

Recommended.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #262

2012-01-04T09:39:00.001Z

An Offer She Can't Refuse - Emma Darcy
Mills & Boon Modern
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780263890365

My rating

From the back cover:

"She’s got the one thing he wants – the Zavros heir
Magazines regularly devote gossip column inches to Greek magnate Ari Zavros and the supermodels gracing his arm – and his bed – each week! Tina Savalas is nothing like Ari’s usual playmates, but this ordinary girl hides the most scandalous secret of all: four years ago her red-hot fling with Ari left her pregnant…
Her bombshell revealed, Ari can see only one solution: the innocent Tina is perfect for the role of Good Greek Wife… And it seems marriage into the Zavros family isn’t a choice – it’s a command!"

This is my first book of the new year!

The heroine Tina is on her way to her sister's wedding with her mother and son, and she is shocked to run into Ari, the hero. Six years ago, Tina and Ari had a fling, which meant much more to Tina and she was left heartbroken when Ari ended it saying it meant nothing to him. She was also left pregnant and made the decision to raise her son Theo alone. When Ari learns about Theo he knows her wants to be a part of his son's life, and the best way is for him and Tina to be married. However, Tina refuses as she knows all about Ari's lack of staying power and will not put herself, or her son, in that position. Ari tries to manipulate Tina into agreeing, and the more time he spends with her the more he sees how perfect she is for him, and that he was a fool to let her go. Eventually, Ari realises that manipulation will not work with Tina, and instead he offers her a deal that would mean complete security for her should their marriage not work out. Tina is tempted, but worried that she will end up heartbroken again. Although she can't deny or ignore the desire that is still between them.

This is a very strange book, and I'm not quite sure if I liked it or not. I didn't really believe the love story between the hero and heroine, it felt a little forced. The hero, in my opinion, is a bit of a dick. He is too manipulative, and acted like he never did anything wrong. Plus it was never very far from his mind that if their marriage turned sour, or if the heroine couldn't satisfying him, then he could cheat - that is not what I want to read from a hero. I liked the heroine though, she had a backbone, thank goodness.
The closing chapters took place over a period of a year, yet so much happened that it ended up feeling very rushed and rather odd. I wonder if the book should have started at this point and these events being the main focus of the book...

Not a great book, but quick to read and OK.

Xx