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

 

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

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

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. 

Xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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