Kimberly’s Review – Page 80

October 22, 2014October 17, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews Christmas With A SEAL by Tawny Weber

TITLE: Christmas With A SEAL
CHARACTERS: Frankie & Phillip
AUTHOR: Tawny Weber
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/21/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Subject: Navy SEAL Lieutenant Phillip Banks

Mission: Resist one saucy redhead’s attempts to de-Scrooge himand seduce him!

Silversmith Frankie Silvera has lost her creative mojo. And she knows how to get it back—by getting her sexy on with a certain hot sailor. Just the thought of Phillip’s hard, Navy-trained body against her, and everything goes molten. He’s the “inspiration” Frankie needs for the holidays!

Navy SEAL Phillip Banks is the prince of protocol. But after his last mission went horribly off-course, all of that control has dissipated. Now he’s at the mercy of one very determined female who is pulling out all the stops on Operation Christmas—including red-hot lingerie and the promise of oh-so-wicked delights But does giving in mean giving up everything he’s worked for?

REVIEW:
I’m sorry to say that I really just didn’t feel it with this story. The characters didn’t seem to have much chemistry and it felt more like Frankie was using Phillip at first.The idea of the story is a bit cliche which could be fine since a lot of Harlequin romances can be but I just never got into this story.

There was a lot of potential with this book but it just never got off the ground.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

October 17, 2014October 11, 2014

Kimberly reviews The Firelight Girls by Kaya McLaren

TITLE: The Firelight Girls
CHARACTERS: Ethel, Laura, Ruby, Shannon
AUTHOR: Kaya McLaren
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/14/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The summers you spend at summer camp are indelibly etched on your heart. But what happens when the camp you love is about to close? Can you ever really say goodbye to the place that made you who you are? These are the questions that plagues Ethel, the seventy-year-old former camp director who is nursing a broken heart after losing the love of her life as she now faces the impending closure of the camp on Lake Wenatchee that she called home. It’s also a question that inspires change in forty-year-old Shannon, who spent the summers of her youth as a vibrant, capable camp counselor and is now directionless after watching her career implode. And there’s Laura, who has lost all intimacy with her husband and doesn’t know if she can save what seems to be gone forever. Finally, Ruby, who betrayed Ethel years ago and hasn’t spoken to her since, hopes this will be her chance to make amends. When the four women learn that a homeless teen has been hiding at camp, they realize camp is something much more immediate for all: survival.

And so the three generations of women search for a way to save the place that saved them all, finding in the process a way back to themselves and each other in The Firelight Girls, Kaya McLaren’s novel of love and loss, heartbreak and healing.

REVIEW:
This is a story of 5 women. It is heartwarming and if you ever spent time at a summer camp this will bring back warm memories. These women formed a friendship and while each has moved on when the camp is closing they find themselves back together again to spend time to reminisce and talk about how the camp changed them.

The characters really drag you in. There is someone for everyone. Which one are you? Which is more like your friends? This is comforting and warm. It is a great book to curl up to by a fire and have some “me” time. A light read made to enjoy.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

October 15, 2014October 11, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly & Kimberly review On The Naughty List by Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, Beth Ciotta & Sugar Jamison

TITLE: On the Naughty List
CHARACTERS: Multiple
AUTHOR: Lori Foster, Carly Phillips, Beth Ciotta & Sugar Jamison
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The most wonderful time of the year is back with On The Naughty List, bringing perennial favorite holiday stories from Lori Foster and Carly Phillips, along with two Christmas stories that delighted readers a year ago. This sexy anthology will make you want to give your heart to Christmas again and again…

Lori Foster has two co-workers plan a Christmas party side-by-side-and discover a love worth celebrating in Christmas Bonus.

Carly Phillips explores a “mistletoe moment” when a no-nonsense lawyer intent on seducing her boss meets his twin instead–and gives him a scintillating kiss that leaves him begging for more in Naughty Under the Mistletoe.

Beth Ciotta brings two friends who, after years apart, together at home for the holidays. They don’t seem to have much in common anymore, but when the two get stranded together during a blizzard, they are forced to reexamine if they are better off as “just friends”? Or could it be that true love was there all along? in Some Kind of Wonderful.

In Sugar Jamison’s Have Yourself a Curvy Little Christmas, former wild child Dina Gregory returns home to New York to find the father of her young son. Instead, she finds his stuffy older brother, Ben. Ben can’t help but admire her tenacity—and her bold beauty. Could it be that Dina has reignited his Christmas spirit?

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts It is always hard to review novella’s without giving too much of the story away so below is a quick and dirty review for each.
Christmas Bonus: Characters: Eric Bragg & Maggie Carmichael
Eric has been interest in Maggie for years, except now she is his boss. Any hope of a relationship with her has gone out the window. Or has it?
Maggie needs Eric. She needs him to help her by being her date for the company Christmas party. It is the perfect plan to seduce the man she is in love with. But will Eric take the bait?
Eric & Maggie were great!!
Naughty Under the Mistletoe: Characters: Maxwell Cobin & Antonia Larson
A hot kiss under the mistletoe with the man of your dreams is the perfect way to start the holiday season. Only problem Toni just kissed the wrong man.

And Max thought going to his father’s company Christmas party was going to be boring.

Max & Toni were really fun to read.

Some Kind of Wonderful: Characters: Zachery Cole & Maya Templeton
This was a fun quick Cupcake Lover’s read. Maya & Zach have been friends for years. The best of friends, but never anything more. But when the holiday’s bring them back together fire works spark.
Since this is a novella I am not giving you more than that. But if you love Beth’s other Cupcake Lover’s stories you will enjoy Some Kind of Wonderful.

Have Yourself a Curvy Little Christmas: Characters: Ben Rowe & Dina Gregory
I think this was my favorite story of the four. I love Ben & Dina!
I just loved Ben. He is dark, stuffy and stubborn and in need of a lot of light and laughter in this life.
Dina is one tough cookie who has not lived the best life. But now that she has her son she wants to be better and that means facing the father of her son.
I for sure am going to pick up more of Sugar Jamison’s stories.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Christmas Bonus: 3 Hearts – This story was just ok. While short it seemed to take forever to read. The characters just don’t seem to mesh either. Erik acts like a old man not just in his early thirties. And Maggie is 22 but asks like the 17 year old she was when they met. Not my cup of tea.

Naughty Under The Mistletoe: 3.5 Hearts – This story is cute. Different with the whole twin brother thing. Enjoyable short read.

Some Kind Of Wonderful: 3.5 Hearts – This is part of a series that I haven’t read. It is cute. I wanted to read more but it was still good. I may have to go back to read the series.

Have Yourself A Curvy Little Christmas: I read this story last winter. I gave it 4 stars. See review at Books-n-Kisses.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & St. Martins in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 15, 2014October 11, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews The Christmas Light by Donna VanLiere

TITLE: The Christmas Light
CHARACTERS: Various
AUTHOR: Donna VanLiere
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/14/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
In the small town of Grandon, five very different people discover the true meaning of Christmas. Jennifer and Ryan are both single parents, struggling with their own losses and heartache as they attempt to move forward in the present while still holding onto the memories, joy, and heartache of the past. Sixteen-year-old Kaylee is faced with a life-changing situation that has affected her whole family. Stephen and Lily are happily married and ready to start a family. All of them are facing their own struggles, and all are finding their way through the dark. When they are brought together for a rather unconventional church Nativity, they will learn that with strength, courage, and love, there is always hope. The New York Times bestselling author of the beloved The Christmas Hope series returns with this new heartwarming, inspirational story about the power of love and faith to reveal the possibilities that lay right in front of you.

REVIEW:
This was a hard read for me. Mainly because of the writing. It is written as if the author is writing a screenplay. It is distracting if you ask me. The rest of the story was fine and had a sweet holiday feel good feeling about it but it was hard for me to get passed the writing. This is my first book by this author even though everyone probably knows The Christmas Shoes from the song. Just not my cup of tea.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

October 14, 2014October 11, 2014

Kelly & Kimberly review One In A Million by Jill Shalvis

TITLE: One in a Million
SERIES #: Lucky harbor #12
CHARACTERS: Tanner Riggs & Callie Sharpe
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
As the brains behind wedding site TyingTheKnot.com, Callie sees it all: from the ring to the dress, the smiles . . . to the tears. It’s that last part that keeps her single and not looking. Getting left at the altar will do that to a girl. But when Callie returns to her old hometown, she finds that her sweet high school crush is sexier than ever. And he makes it hard to remember why she’s sworn off love . . .

Tanner is a deep-sea diver with a wild, adrenaline-junkie past—and now his teenage son is back in his life. How can Tanner be a role model when he’s still paying for his own mistakes? It’s hard enough that gorgeous Callie has appeared in town like a beautiful dream, challenging his best-laid plans to keep his heart on lockdown. Though there’s something about being around her again that makes him feel like he can be the man she—and his son—deserve. Little Lucky Harbor holds their past; can it hold a beautiful new future?

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Seriously, I can not get enough of Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor books. Every single book that I have read I have totally and utterly fallen in love with. I am so very upset and hope that this is not true that this is the last Lucky Harbor novel. I know there is a novella to come in December. But I honestly don’t know what I am going to do about not having a new Lucky Harbor book in my future. Well I guess I could do a re-read. And I guess I can hope that Ms. Shalvis will come to her senses and realize that Lucky Harbor needs more love stories.

That being said back to One in a Million. There was just something about Tanner that grabbed me when he stepped on the pages in He’s So Fine. Now don’t get me wrong Cole & Sam are hot and I loved them too. But Tanner stole my heart. There is just something about this tough, wounded, ex Navy Seal that screams “I need a hug”. But never fear Callie seems to have that part covered (darn her 😉 ) Anywhoo….. Loved loved loved loved this book. Loved Callie (even if I wanted to slap her up side the head a time or two. Thank goodness for Lucille).
Loved this whole series. And honestly tearing up just a bit that it could be over. But never say never right *sniff, sniff* If you are a Lucky Harbor fan you will totally love One in a Million. If you are new you really should start at the beginning with Simply Irresistible.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Well this is it. This is the end. But what a way to go. Jill Shalvis brought us to this tiny town of Lucky Harbor and through 12 books she let us meet 12 wonderful couple, a nosy old lady with a social media fascination, a few great kids, and a wonderful town and now we have to say goodbye but not before the 12th couple connects and that is Callie and Tanner.

Maybe because it was so bittersweet this might be my favorite couple that Shalvis has written. Maybe she just saved the best for last. I don’t know but I really enjoyed Callie and Tanner. First I adored Tanner for the last two books. I love the bro-romance the three amigos have and enjoyed reading their story and since Tanner was such a big part of the other books maybe that gave me more time to fall in love with him but no matter how it happened I did just that. And Callie.. well she is something. She is so sweet and loving and a little broken and love-shy and yet you not only want to be friends with her but pull her in and hug her. Troy is a great character too and another reason to open your arms for a hug.

No fan of contemporary romance should miss this series. Lucky Harbor is a wonderful place to visit and I am sad to know that one of my favorite fictional vacation spots will be no more but I enjoyed the times I got to visit and thank Shalvis for all the wonderful people I met along the way. Here’s to the next series may it be as wonderful as this one.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Forever (Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 13, 2014October 11, 2014

Kelly & Kimberly review Stirring Up Trouble by Kimberly Kincaid

TITLE: Stirring Up Trouble
SERIES #: Pine Mountain #3
CHARACTERS: Gavin Carmichael & Sloane Russo
AUTHOR: Kimberly Kincaid
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Looking for inspiration…

Sloane Russo’s turned a decade of crazy jobs and whimsical travel into a career writing steamy novels set in exotic places. Trouble is, Sloane’s flat broke now—and she can’t channel sun-drenched beaches in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The only fast cash in town comes with some seriously distracting temptation: Gavin Carmichael, hot, handsome and oh-so-hard-headed.

Gavin isn’t the impulsive Don Juan of Sloane’s novels. He’s raising his thirteen-year-old half-sister, and he’s pretty sure he’s supposed to act like he’s never heard of fun. Sloane is way too sexy and irresponsible to be his idea of a good tutor for Bree, but the unpredictable anti-nanny may be irresistible as well.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts What has Sloane Russo not done in her life. Let’s see she has been a delivery girl, a hand model, traveled to exotic places and is now a writer. But the one thing that she has never done is to stay in one place and fall in love.
Gavin Carmichael has traveled the world but he gave that up to take care of his little sister after his mom passed. But now he is in desperate need of a babysitter. Unfortunately the only person available is Sloane Russo.
Awe another good visit to Pine Mountain. I loved Gavin & Sloane’s story. They are such polar opposites. Or maybe they are like magnets. It was great fun watching them collide together. And Bree adds some much needed teen drama to the book too. I hope that we will get a glance at these three in future books. But until then savor you wine slowing and love hard.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
3 Hearts So this is going to sound weird but I really thought this book was written just for me. The authors name is Kimberly (like mine) and a background character is named Vice Principal WIlkerson which is my maiden name. But nope. I just couldn’t get into this story.

The characters never seemed to mess for me. They just never got that connection. More importantly I never connected with the characters. Gavin is just so uptight. He reminds me of the stereotypical butler. Uptight, reserved and dry. Sloane is really smart but never seems to warm up.

I have enjoyed the others in the series but this one just didn’t make the cut.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 8, 2014October 4, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday: Kelly & Kimberly review A Highland Wolf Christmas by Terry Spears

TITLE: A Highland Wolf Christmas
SERIES #: Heart of the Wolf #15
CHARACTERS: Guthrie MacNeill & Calle Steward
AUTHOR: Terry Spears
PUBLICATION DATE: October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS:Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Financial advisor Guthrie MacNeill isn’t a complete Scrooge—he just hates the enormous cost associated with the Christmas holiday season. Needless to say, when his pack hires a party planner to decorate the castle, he’s at his wit’s end. Until Calla Stewart arrives on the scene with her mistletoe in hand.

Calla has never had a client as difficult as Guthrie, but she’s determined to give the pack a Christmas season they will never forget—no matter how much it costs. But when her ex-fiancé begins stalking her and threatening her safety, Guthrie decides to loosen his grip on the purse strings and let out his inner Highland warrior wolf to protect her.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts Another good Highland Wolf story by Ms. Spears. I enjoyed reading about Guthrie & Calla. These two were fun to read about in Hero of a Highland Wolf when Calla stole Guthrie boxers and hung them up on a pole. From that moment on I knew these two would be great fun to read. And of course the did not disappoint. Both are coming off of bad breakups and both are a little gun shy about a new relationship. Yet they can’t seem to keep their hands and lips for that matter off each other. So rationally the only thing to do is court right? Unfortunately the pass and the people in it keep coming back to try to hurt Calla. But that doesn’t stop them from having a great story.
I am looking forward to the next installment in the Highland Wolf series.

Favorite scene: what is a male wolf to do when trapped under a christmas, while trapping the she wolf he is interested in under him? Well kiss the hell out of her of course. hehehehe Love it. Kissing under the Mistletoe my but, new holiday tradition kissing under the falling christmas tree.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts I enjoyed this story very much. I have read some of the series but not all of it but this certainly can be read as a stand alone you will just have the feeling that you missed the story of some of the background characters.

Cassie and Guthrie seem to be perfect for each other. We met Cassie in the last book and we knew she was meant for Guthrie when she stole his boxers for the pirate party the lass’ were having. And we knew there was a connection right then and there and boy is there. Cassie is just coming off of a broken engagement to a wolf she thinks she loved but once she is with Guthrie she wonders if she ever really loved the other wolf. But Baird is not letting her go and while it takes a while we learn why.

The connection that the brothers have is a wonderful back story as well. The closeness is something every family should have. I will say there is not a lot about Christmas in this story so if you are wanting a Holiday themed story this is really not it. But it is a sweet winter tale and one to enjoy if you enjoy the genre.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 8, 2014October 4, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday: Kelly & Kimberly review The Christmas Wedding Ring by Susan Mallery

TITLE: The Christmas Wedding Ring
CHARACTERS: Dylan Black & Molly Anderson
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: Reissue date October 7, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Re-issue of Wedding Ring Promise – Originally published 1998.

New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery returns with a classic story of destiny, desire and a little holiday magic!

In her youth, Molly Anderson couldn’t help crushing on gorgeous bad-boy Dylan Black?even though he only had eyes for her older sister. When things didn’t work out between them, he said goodbye to Molly as well, vowing they’d have a great adventure when she grew up. Years later, dumped by her fianc? just before Christmas, she’s finally ready to take Dylan up on his promise.

A guarded Dylan always had a weakness for Molly, and when she waltzes back into his life?grown-up and gorgeous?he’s stunned. So why not whisk her away for some no-strings-attached fun?

Laughter-filled days and late-night kisses are changing Molly’s life, for good. The only gift she truly wants now is Dylan’s love, but when he discovers the secret she’s been keeping, she may lose him again?this time forever

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts As a warning: this is a rei-issue of Ms. Mallery’s The Wedding Ring Promise. It even states that in the blurb so when I see that people are complaining about it being a re-issue it upsets me. But any ways. I loved this story. It was a quick and sweet read.

You know what they say about bad things coming in three’s will Molly Anderson’s week from hell fits that bill perfectly. First, she gets downsized. Second, she finds out her now ex-fiance ran off to Mexico with his secretary. And lastly, could be a matter of life or death. So what is one to do when faced with the week from hell? You find an old gift from a friend with a promise of “Whenever, Wherever, I will be there for you and talk you on an adventure”.

The last person Dylan Black ever expected to darken his door step was little Molly Anderson, who is not so little any more. When Molly comes to collect on a promise made 14 years ago he is ready. Ready to take a step away from his life and the decisions he needs to make.

I really loved Dylan and Molly’s story. While this story line might have been told many many times (Bad boy and the girl who had a major crush on him) Ms. Mallery made it feel like the first time I read that story line. I loved the drama of Molly’s week and how well Dylan deals with her ups and downs. I really enjoyed watching these two fall in love.

If you are a Susan Mallery fan and have not read this story yet I would suggest picking up a copy of The Christmas Wedding Ring and find out for yourself.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I thought I had pretty much read every Susan Mallery book out there but somehow I missed them one but I am glad I finally got a chance to read it because I really enjoyed it. I will say it is certainly different than the way Mallery writes now but at the same time it still has the same feel to it. Molly is strong even though she is going through a lot and I mean a lot. Dylan is gorgeous and has a heart of gold. That is what the basis is for any of Mallery’s books and this does not disappoint.

This story is a lesson of life in a sweet holiday story. This is Mallery’s story that reminds us to live in the moment, do not take anything for granted and to enjoy what you have because you never know when it will be taken away. Molly is going through so much. Within three days her life falls apart and yet she holds her head high, she has a smile on her face and she has a sense of humor. Yes she is scared but she is also living. Dylan is supportive and a great gy but honestly while he is a big part of the story and we learn a bit of a lesson for him this is truly Molly’s story.

Susan Mallery’s stories are not to be missed. Even this re-release.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Edelweiss & Harlequin in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

September 30, 2014September 28, 2014

Kelly, Jennifer & Kimberly review Chained By Night by Larissa Ione

TITLE: Chained by Nights
SERIES #: MoonBound Clan Vampires #2
CHARACTERS: Hunter & Aylin
AUTHOR: Larissa Ione
PUBLICATION DATE: September 30, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
THE FUTURE OF HIS TRIBE
Leader of the vampire clan MoonBound, Hunter will do what he must to save his people from extinction—or worse, a torturous eternity as vampire slaves and subjects of human experimentation.To keep his enemies at bay, he has agreed to mate a rival clan leader’s daughter in return for peace between the clans and an ally in the looming war with the humans.

THE LOVER OF HIS SOUL
But survival comes at a price. First, Hunter must break an ancient curse by successfully negotiating three deadly tests. Then he must resist the searing passions of the gorgeous vampire warrior he despises but is bound to mate. Will Hunter stay true to his word? Or will he risk everything for the woman he really loves: the vampire seductress’s identical twin sister?

KELLY’S REVIEW:
5 Hearts In Chained by Night we pick up a few months after where we left off in Bound by Night (bk1), with Hunter waiting to be mated to a rival clan’s first daughter. But this is not a mating of love, but one of duty. Even so, Hunter is willing to do what needs to be done to protect his clan. So when Hunter’s intended mate is attacked outside his clan’s walls he runs to her rescue. Once she is safe Hunter is happy to see that she is more than he could have wished for.

Aylin is strong, feisty and determined. Unfortunately, she has been told all her life that she is nothing and noone. But in Chained by Night Aylin learns so much about herself and grows into an amazing person. One of the many things that Alyin learns is that she loves a man that can never be hers.
Rasah is Hunters intended mate. And let me tell you I hate this girl. I mean I wish there was a deep dark hole for her to fall into. Rasah, has no problem taking what she wants no matter who she hurt or what stands in her way. Not even her sister.
This book was Awesome sauce. I honestly don’t think that I have met a Larissa Ione book that I have not fallen in love with. And like all of Ms. Ione’s books, Chained by Night kept me up late at night and turning that next page to see what would happen. If you have not read Bound by Night you need to start there.
I am hoping that Myne’s story will be told next. Although there are many others that need a story too 🙂 Either way I will be very happy for the next book in this series.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
5 Hearts Let me think how to be describe this book… Wonderful? Sure. Maybe Amazing? Sure. Maybe Perfect? Yep that about covers it.

Ione has brought us back into her world of the MoonBound Vampires. The world where everyone knows that vampires exist and are something to be hunted. At the end of the first in the series we told that Hunter was being forced to mate with Rasha for the good of the clan but Hunter had one problem he can’t stand the vampire. But when Hunter meets her identical sister, Aylin, now that is a vampire he could sink his teeth into to (did I just say that?). This world is a bit different then most of the worlds that are written in vampire lore. She also takes some liberties with what we have learned about the “norm” of vampires but those liberties make this story special and she mixes a bit of Native American lore which is a fun twist.

I couldn’t put this book down. I am a huge fan of Ione’s books and love this series. If you have not read any of Ione’s books then you are missing out. Ione is one of the best in the paranormal genre and should not be missed. While this story could (mostly) be read as a stand alone I would not suggest it. Read the first in the series first. It explains why Hunter is being forced to mate with Rasha.

Enjoy… I did!

JENNIFER’S REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Hunter was a character that had always intrigued me and I definitely wanted to learn more about him when he made his appearance in Bound by Night. In Chained by Night, we learn that Hunter has agreed to mate with the daughter of his mortal enemy to help pacify the volatile relationship between the two clans. What he never expected was that his future mate, Rasha, was a nightmare to be around and that he unexpectedly finds himself attracted to Rasha’s twin sister, Aylin.

A man of his word, Hunter prepares for the mating ceremony, but first, he and his future mate must take part in three deadly trials to save their future first born child. Each born vampire must participate in these trials before the mating ceremony or be destined to lose their future child to a deadly enemy. Rasha declines to participate in these trials but Aylin agrees to take her place, to assist the man that is like no other that she has ever known before. As Hunter’s feelings for Aylin deepen, will he be able to say goodbye to the one woman who has his heart in order to protect the people that he has been his family for so long?

I loved Hunter and Aylin together as a couple in Chained by Night and I was praying that they would find a way to stay together in the end after everything they went through. Hunter had spent most of his life trying to be good man for his clan and even though he didn’t want to be around Rasha, he was willing to make the sacrifice. Meeting Aylin wasn’t what he planned but she was the perfect partner for him. She was smart, humble and was always looking out to help other people. After the horrors that she had been through growing up had made her not only a strong person but a good one as well and she’s become one of my favorite heroines to date. Personally, I would love to smack Rasha with a shovel just because of her attitude and the way she treated Aylin during the course of this book. She made me hate her and because of that, I loved Aylin all the more because she was still able to love her sister even after the things Rasha had done to her.

Chained by Night was an amazing paranormal tale of forbidden love and adventure that will definitely strike a chord with readers. I was swept right along with Hunter and Aylin during their dangerous trials and tribulations to protect the people they loved or die trying. Ms. Ione has always been one of my favorite authors and with each new book, she continues to captivate with her stories of hot, sexy romance and heart-stopping action.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Pocket Books in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

September 30, 2014September 21, 2014

Kimberly reviews The Betrayed by Heather Graham

TITLE: The Betrayed
SERIES #: Krewe Of Hunters #14
CHARACTERS: Mo & Aidan
AUTHOR: Heather Graham
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/30/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Sleepy Hollow isn’t so sleepy anymore…
One night, New York FBI agent Aiden Mahoney receives a visitor in a dream–an old friend named Richard Highsmith. The very next day he’s sent to Sleepy Hollow because Richard’s gone missing there.
Maureen–Mo–Deauville now lives in the historic town and works with her dog, Rollo, to search for missing people. She’s actually the one to find Richard?or more precisely his head, stuck on a statue of the legendary Headless Horseman.
Mo and Aiden, a new member of the Krewe of Hunters, the FBI’s unit of paranormal investigators, explore both past and present events to figure out who betrayed Richard, who killed him and now wants to kill them, too. As they work together, they discover that they share an unusual trait?the ability to communicate with the dead. They also share an attraction that’s as intense as it is unexpected?if they live long enough to enjoy it!

REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts Another wonderful tale by Graham. The best thing about Graham’s stories is the history. There is no way to read her books without wanting to jump in the car and race off to the locale to see all she speaks of. Or if you can’t drive there at least jump in the car to head to the library to read about the places and people that are real. In this case we are in Sleepy Hollow, the home of the classic by Washington Irving. Sleepy Hollow is something I have known for a long time, really who doesn’t, but there was background that I was not aware of which made it more interesting.Other things happened in this story that I am not used to in Graham books. First, Aidan is different. Aidan has the gift but it is dormant which is a real difference from the normal Krewe tales. Most of the time the main couple each have the gift but aren’t willing to tell each other right away. In this one Aidan doesn’t have it. Or at least he thinks he lost it and Mo has the gift but in a much different way than is normally written. They both are very interesting characters and a welcome change. And the second thing that was different? I figured out the “who-dun-it” which I usually am not able to do. And to tell you the truth I am not even sure how I figured it out this time. But again that was a welcome change for me. While I love the fact that I usually can not figure it out once in a while it is nice to know I am not just plain dumb.
I really enjoyed this story. Probably one of my favorites from Graham lately even though I would never miss one of her Krewe Of Hunters books.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 29, 2014September 21, 2014

Kelly & Kimberly review In Your Dreams by Kristan Higgins

TITLE: In Your Dreams
SERIES #: Blue Heron #4
CHARACTERS: Jack Holland & Emmaline Neal
AUTHOR: Kristan Higgins
PUBLICATION DATE: September 30, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Emmaline Neal needs a date. Just a date—someone to help her get through her ex-fiancé’s wedding without losing her mind. But pickings are slim in Manningsport, New York, population 715. In fact, there’s really only one option: local heartthrob Jack Holland. Everyone loves Jack, and he won’t get the wrong idea…. After all, Jack Holland would never actually be interested in a woman like Em. Especially not with his beautiful ex-wife creeping around, angling to reunite ever since he rescued a group of teens and became a local hero.

But when the wedding festivities take an unexpectedly passionate turn, Em figures it was just one crazy night. Jack is too gorgeous, too popular, to ever end up with her. So why is she the one he can talk to about his deep, dark feelings? If Em is going to get her dream man, she’ll have to start by believing in him

KELLY’S REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Everyone loves Jack Holland. Well everyone, but me. Jack is sweet, yes. Jack is uber hot, yes. Jack is the town hero, yes. But Jack as a serious I can say no to anyone problem. I liked Jack a lot in the beginning then he kinda got on my nerves. By the end of the book I liked him again. But I think he had it too easy. There should have been a lot more I need to kiss your ass for screwing up so badly.
Emmaline on the other hand I liked all the way through the book. Oh she had her moments I wanted to shake her and tell her to get over it. But, I knew she would be okay. She is one tough chick. And really should have made Jack work harder.
But all in all this was a great story. So much going and so many sensitive issues were addressed. I am looking forward to the next novel in the Blue Heron series.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts Ok so here is the thing… Everyone in town just adores Jack but 95% of the time I really didn’t like him at all. He is so sad and stuck in his own head and waiting for bad things to happen and then he can be mean and thinks that an “I’m sorry” will fix everything and that is the second problem. With Em it does. Why that girls falls for him I have no idea. I get that when he is sweet he really is cute and funny but those times are so rare that it really shouldn’t matter. And Em has had her heart broken before and in such a big way that why she lets Jack walk all over and use her I just do not get.

I really enjoyed the Jack we met when he was a background character but the writing was different with him in this book and I didn’t like that very much. The book is very wordy with a bunch of the same things over and over. And the amount of time we spend reading about the ex’s is just too much. I liked Em most of the time. She is comfortable in her own skin and sassy and just plain likeable but she can also be such a doormat.

I have enjoyed the others in the series and look forward to reading the next one but this one just didn’t do anything for me at all.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Harlequin HQN in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

September 29, 2014September 21, 2014

Kimberly reviews Indecent Proposal by Molly O’Keefe

TITLE: Indecent Proposal
SERIES #: Bishop Boys #4
CHARACTERS: Ryan & Harrison
AUTHOR: Molly O’Keefe
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/30/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
With his chiseled jaw and his thick blond hair, Harrison Montgomery was born to lead. Four generations of Montgomery men have served the state of Georgia and now he’s next in line. Harrison, though, is driven to right wrongs: namely to clean up the political mess left by his father’s greed and corruption. But Harrison must first win his congressional bid, and nothing can get in his way—not even an angel who served him whiskey and gave him a shoulder to lean on and a body to love for a night. Problem is, she’s pregnant. Scandal is brewing and there is only one solution: marriage.
Damage control? Ryan Kaminski can’t believe that a cold, calculating political animal now inhabits the body of the emotionally vulnerable stranger who’d given her the most unforgettable night of her life. Really, she doesn’t want anything from Harrison, except to be left alone to have her baby in peace. But Ryan is broke, jobless, and essentially blackmailed by Harrison’s desperate family to accept this crazy marriage deal. For two years, she will have to act the role of caring, supportive wife. But what is Ryan supposed to do when she realizes that, deep in her heart, she’s falling in love.

REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts This was a cute story. Not my favorite of the series but still a sweet story. Ryan and Harrison have had so much pain in their life and have lived so many lies that they just can’t trust anyone or anything. And both have never felt true love or I guess I should say Harrison never felt it and Ryan knew love growing up but then had her world drop out from under her. Weirdly enough they are perfect for each other but at the same time them hiding their feelings gets a bit old after a while.

There was no question we would get to read Harrison’s story. We actually got a taste of it in the last story in the series. We found out he was married during his sisters story so we knew it would come soon to hear what had happened. As I said this was not my favorite in the series but still worth the read. Since none of this story took place in Bishop I wonder what or who is next in the series?

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.