Talking about Julie Garwood's 'The Wedding' at Parajunkee's View

I'm talking about one of my favorite books - Julie Garwood's The Wedding over at Parajunkee's View.  Haven't tried historical romance?  See why this one's on my keeper shelf.

Pam's Review: His Mistress by Christmas by Victoria Alexander

His Mistress by Christmas
~Victoria Alexander

Hardcover: 352 pages 
Publisher: Kensington 
Publish Date: October 1, 2011 
ISBN-10: 0758255675 
ISBN-13: 978-0758255679 
ASIN: B005CRY7NW

From Goodreads:
For three years, Lady Veronica Smithson has been a happy, independent widow. Still, the right gentleman could provide the benefits of marriage without the tedious restrictions. And in Sir Sebastian Hadley-Attwater, renowned explorer and rogue, Veronica is sure she has found him.  

Sebastian will inherit his fortune in a matter of weeks—if his family deems him responsible enough. There’s no better way to prove his maturity than with a home and a wife. But though the lovely Veronica will share his bed, she refuses to marry.

An intimate sojourn at his new country house will surely change her mind. For Sebastian never takes no for an answer. And even in the midst of mischief-making relatives and unexpected complications, he intends to persuade his Christmas mistress that they belong together—in this and every season to come…

Veronica Smithson has decided that she wants to be a mistress, and never a wife. She had been married, happily too, but since she was widowed a few years back and got a taste of true independence she refuses to let a man control anything about her life again. She sets her eyes on Sebastian Hadley-Attwater, her friend’s cousin, at a lecture he was speaking at and decides that she wants to be his mistress. Sebastian is an author and a world traveler. It is rumored that he has been with many women during his travels. Will Veronica be able to convince Sebastian to let her be his mistress or will Sebastian have other plans instead?

My thoughts:
Ugh, this book. So Veronica decides she wants to be a mistress and doesn’t think ahead about what that would really mean in regards to her feelings. Such as what if she falls in love? What if it’s not forever, etc? She also announces how she wants to be a mistress to her friend, Sebastian’s cousin, at the beginning of the book, saying how she decided that Sebastian is who her conquest will be. She was just…annoying. I thought she would be more mature in her thinking, especially because she is not naïve; she has been married before.

I felt like Sebastian was blah too. Yeah, he definitely had his own plans for Veronica, and yes, he used have a reputation because of his traveling, but none of that is evident in the book because he changed his ways and just like that he wants to settle down. His character was a bore, sorry Sebastian. He just isn’t that memorable to me. The story definitely was not for me.

My Rating:

 Pam
Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Pam's Review: Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish by Grace Burrowes

Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish
 ~Grace Burrowes

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publish Date: October 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 1402261543
ISBN-13: 978-1402261541
ASIN: B005EU5092

From Goodreads:
It's just before Christmas, and Lady Sophie Windham has an abandoned baby on her hands with nobody to help her but a handsome stranger who hates the holidays. Sophie and Lord Vim Charpentier succumb to a vulnerable moment, and he feels he must leave before he compromises her. But they're trapped by a snowstorm in a ducal mansion full of well-placed sprigs of mistletoe...

Lady Sophia Windham wants some time to herself this holiday season. She does not expect to be left with an abandoned baby. Having no clue as to why the child is crying, she is in luck when Vim Charpentier approaches her and offers assistance. She allows it because he seems very knowledgeable about children. Vim ends up accompanying Sophie and the baby, Kit, home because he is worried for them in the snow storm. He agrees to spend the night because of the snow and to help with Kit. Also, he assumes that Sophie is a housekeeper or a lady’s maid, otherwise she wouldn’t be unchaperoned; so he believes that his staying the night would not be scandalous in this case.

Vim gets snowed in with Sophie and the baby for a few days. During this time Sophie becomes more confident with Kit; she starts to recognize what his different cries mean and what to do about them. She also starts to have feelings for Vim, even though she knows he is bound to leave as soon as the snow clears up. What she doesn’t know, however, is that Vim is also having those same feelings for her.

My thoughts:
I really liked this book, it was so sweet. I felt cozy just by reading it. Honestly, most of the book was about them snowed in at her house, but it wasn’t boring at all! I felt like I was snowed in with them; I smelled Sophie’s cooking, watched Kit learn to crawl, and listened in to their conversations.

Also, the characters were definitely unique and likeable. Vim Charpentier is not your typical alpha male that I’ve gotten used to reading in romances, and I really liked that he was different. He has this sense of calmness about him, and patience too. I felt like he was soft spoken, but not a pushover. Sophie, a duke’s daughter, is very knowledgeable, not a complainer, and knows how to take care of herself. She speaks up for herself while at the same time she is cautious with her feelings; she is another likeable character.

I definitely suggest reading Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish this holiday season. Curl up under a warm blanket, grab some hot chocolate, and get trapped in the snow with Sophie, Vim, and Kit.

My rating:

Pam

Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Pam's Review: In A Treacherous Court by Michelle Diener

In A Treacherous Court
~Michelle Diener

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Gallery Books
Publish Date: August 2, 2011
ISBN-10: 1439197083
ISBN-13: 978-1439197080
ASIN: B004G8QTYI

From the author's website:
Henry VIII’s most lethal courtier and his newly appointed artist become the only thing keeping him on the throne – and if they survive, neither will ever be the same.

John Parker is one of Henry VIII most useful courtiers — utterly merciless and completely loyal. But one small favour for his King will pull Parker into a deadly plot against the throne, one that will test his courage, his resolve, and most especially, his heart.

A commission from Henry VIII should have been the crowning achievement of Susanna Horenbout’s career, but before the beautiful and talented artist even sets foot in England, she finds herself in possession of a secret that could change its history. With Parker as her only protection against killers who will stop at nothing to silence her, Susanna has to trust the dangerous, enigmatic courtier. She’s used to fighting in a man’s world, but she never expected to be fighting for her life.

The story takes place in 1525 England. Susanna Horenbout finds herself in an unusual predicament. She is on her way to England to serve as an artist for King Henry VIII. During the journey, however, a man dies in her arms with no one else around. He leaves her with his last words which are an important message for the King.

John Parker works very closely with the King and is one of his men. He comes across Susanna because the man who died in her arms also worked for the King. Parker tries to get the dying man’s message out of Susanna, but she is determined to tell the King herself because the message was for his ears alone. When a bolt seems like it was meant to take Susanna’s life, Parker decides to stay close and guard her on the way to the King, because someone clearly doesn’t want the message to get delivered.

My thoughts:
This book was very hard for me to read. It was lacking in….something. I even stopped reading at one point when Parker and Susanna were being attacked. I think one reason is that I didn’t feel connected to the characters. I didn’t get the real feel for them, for what makes them who they are. I think another reason that I had trouble with this book was I just felt that the first two thirds dragged and was almost repetitive, in my mind at least. Even though I just finished this book last night, I’m having trouble remembering what happened; it didn’t interest me enough to stay with me. There was some romance between Parker and Susanna, but again, I just didn’t feel it.

The story finally started to flow and held my interest when there was about a hundred or so pages left. So while it definitely ended on a good note for me, this is not a book that I will be keeping on my shelves.

My Rating: Pam
Book received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Pam's Review: How to Seduce a Scoundrel by Vicky Dreiling

How to Seduce a Scoundrel
~Vicky Dreiling

Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: July 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 0446565385
ISBN-13: 978-0446565387
ASIN: B0047Y17PC

From the author's website:
SCOUNDRELS, RAKES, AND ROGUES BEWARE . . .

Lady Julianne Gatewick is in a pickle. It started when her brother’s best friend—for whom she’s long nursed a secret tendre—agreed to act as her guardian for the Season, only to seduce her with a risqué waltz.

But when the music stopped and the expectant ton waited for the Earl of Hawkfield to claim her as his own, he made his disinterest clear. Rather than succumb to humiliation, Julianne does what any recently discarded, wickedly witty young miss would do. She secretly pens a lady’s guide to enticing unrepentant rakes . . . and it becomes the hottest scandal in London.

Every honorable rake knows that friends’ sisters are forbidden. But suddenly Julianne has a spark of mischief in her eyes that Hawk can’t resist. Try as he might to push her away, he spends his days listening for her laughter and his nights dreaming of her kisses. He’s always avoided innocents and their marriage-minded mothers, but has the man least likely to wed finally met his match?

ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND WAR

This story takes place in England in the year 1817. Hawk is a carefree ladies man. He refuses to live at home with his family, has his own bachelor pad, and has quite the reputation as a rake. His best friend, Tristan, has asked him to watch over his sister for the season, and be her guardian. Hawk agrees though he hasn’t seen Julianne for some time, and when he does he is momentarily taken aback. This isn’t the girl that he teased growing up; this is a beautiful woman.

Julianne has loved Hawk for many years. She has always daydreamed about them having a ‘happily ever after.’ However, with growing up comes the understanding that fantasies are not always realistic. Julianne gets a wake up call when Hawk has a romantic moment dancing with her and after mentions that he thinks of her like a sister. She resolves that she is done letting the men take all the control in her relationships and decides to write an anonymous pamphlet on how to seduce the man you want to help all the other ladies in situations like herself. Will it help her seduce and win Hawk’s heart after all?

This book was a pleasant surprise; the story pulled me right in when Hawk was introduced; I felt as carefree as he was. It was like a breath of fresh air, and then I got lost in the story. You get to experience Hawk and Julianne struggle with their feelings and decisions and see them both grow.

The secondary characters are great. While Hawk is acting as Julianne’s guardian, Hawk’s aunt, Hester, is her sponsor. Aunt Hester speaks her mind about men very openly for that time, and she doesn’t care who it bothers. Julianne’s friends Amy and Georgette are always there for support, to offer their opinions, and even to get in trouble together. On one such escapade, the girls are at a party and hear some interesting noises behind a closed door…

The thumping turned into banging, and the man’s grunting grew louder. “Feel my mighty sword.”
“He has a sword?” Georgette asked.
The woman behind the door screamed.
Georgette gasped. “He killed her.”
How to Seduce a Scoundrel, page 51

How to Seduce a Scoundrel made me laugh, kept me up extra late, and kept me interested the whole time. I highly recommend this book.

My Rating:

Pam
This book was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: A Gentleman Never Tells by Amelia Grey

A Gentleman Never Tells
~Amelia Grey

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publish Date: July 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 1402239750
ISBN-13: 978-1402239755
ASIN: B00514OWVI

From the author's website:
When a lady is in a predicament...

Beautiful, clever and courageous Lady Gabrielle thwarts the shackles of her arranged betrothal by kissing a stranger in the park. But who is this man? Finding herself stuck in yet another forced engagement Gabrielle needs another strategy that isn’t so dangerous.

A gentleman may find himself in deep trouble...
Brentwood is walking in the park early one morning when a beautiful, enchanting young lady walks out of the mist and into his arms. Now Brent has no choice but to marry the delightful Lady Gabrielle. Unfortunately his intended bride has other ideas, and the determined Viscount finds himself plunging into one scandal after another.

Viscount Brentwood (Brent) is walking his mother's dog, Prissy, though Hyde Park when he runs into a beautiful young lady who is accompanied by an extremely large dog.  They exchange a few words, and then - she kisses him!!!  Before he knows what happened, her father and her fiancee's father are there, demanding to know how long they've been secretly meeting.  Naturally Gabrielle's engagement is called off and Gabrielle's father, the Duke of Windergreen, demands that Brent marry her to salvage her honor.  He threatens Brent's younger brothers' new shipping company if he does not comply. In the confusion, Prissy runs away.


Lady Gabrielle just caught her younger sister kissing Gabrielle's fiancee!  Distraught, she takes her mastiff, Brutus, for a walk through Hyde Park.  She comes upon a gentleman walking a tiny dog, and after a few minutes, leans in and kisses him!  She doesn't have explanation for her behavior, she was overcome with curiosity and kissed him, and she liked it.  She's pleased she'll no longer have to wed her fiancee, but when her father informs her she'll be marrying Brent instead she is horrified - she doesn't want to be forced to marry.

As Gabrielle works to convince Brent that he doesn't want to marry her, he realizes more and more that he does.  Gabrielle wants a husband that wants her, not one that's being forced to marry her.

My thoughts:
A Gentleman Never Tells was adorable!  I liked both Gabrielle and Brent, they were honorable characters without being saccharinely so.  It was funny to watch their story unfold from each of their viewpoints, if only they would have communicated more with each other!  The secondary storyline revolving around Prissy being missing was a nice diversion to get these two to spend time together.  I liked that the H/H were both dog lovers.

With respect to the secondary characters - they were a juicy bunch!  Gabrielle's sister and ex-fiancee totally deserved each other; that's all I'm saying about that.  Brent's younger twin brothers were rakish fun - I hope they each get a story.  Gabrielle's aunt, who came down to visit for the-wedding-that-didn't-happen, is one of those characters who is insightful and fun.  I hope now that she's in London she'll continue to try the Duke's patience!

All in all, A Gentleman Never Tells is a sweet story featuring an adorable couple, their canine companions, a feisty pair of twins, and a mysterious pet thief.  


My Rating:




This book was received by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Pam Reviews: My Dangerous Pleasure by Carolyn Jewel

My Dangerous Pleasure
~ Carolyn Jewel

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: June 1,2011
ISBN-10: 0446563870
ISBN-13: 978-0446563871
ASIN: B004T4M600

From the author's website:
TEMPT THE DARKNESS Strong-willed and independent, Paisley Nichols is used to taking care of herself. But when an insane mage begins tracking her every move and threatening her at every turn, she has no choice but to put her life in the hands of a demon.

RISK THE PASSION Burned by betrayal, demon assassin Iskander won't get too close to anyone. He spends his days serving his warlord and his nights indulging in carnal pleasures . . . and that's exactly how he likes it. But when a mage wages a wrenching psychic assault on his beautiful tenant Paisley, Iskander must defend her. Under his protection, she will be drawn irresistibly into his life and learn about her own mysterious powers. And not a moment too soon. The mage haunting her isn't acting alone-and he won't rest until he destroys both Paisley and Iskander.

Paisley is an average young woman, living her dream by working in her own bakery. Life is good until she catches the attention of a certain man. They end up going on a date; and then the man who she was first attracted to, turns out to be a crazy stalker.

Iskander is Paisley’s landlord, and a demon. The very reason that Paisley does not have any magic in her is why Iskander has her as a tenant; so he knows that something is amiss when he feels magic coming from her apartment.

Paisley’s stalker turns out to be a mage that Iskander knows, and soon Paisley is relying on her landlord that she hardly spoke to before, for her own safety.

My thoughts:
This is the fourth book of a series. Although it’s not necessary to read the previous books, there was some terminology that I wasn’t familiar with, which made it a little confusing in the beginning. There is a glossary in the front of the book, so by the end of the first few chapters I didn’t have to glance back at it anymore.

It took me a while to warm up to Iskander; I think part of the reason was because of his whole playboy attitude. I did end up liking him as the book went on, but he was definitely not my favorite male lead.

Paisley, on the other hand, I liked right away. I liked how she would try to help out by doing what she does best, bake. (This book made me want to turn on the oven and bake some desserts a time or two.) She couldn’t pay Iskander for all his help, but she made sure that he ate really well.

Paisley and Iskander had some good chemistry, and some great sex scenes. The story flowed well and was interesting. While I won’t go back and read the previous books in this series, it was overall a good read.


My Rating:

Pam

Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Pam Reviews: Lady of Seduction by Laurel McKee

Lady of Seduction
~Laurel McKee


Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: June 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 0446544779
ISBN-13: 978-0446544771
ASIN: B0047Y0FGE

From Goodreads:
It's a mad, ill-advised journey that leads the usually sensible Lady Caroline Blacknall to the legendary isle of Muirin Inish, off the windswept coast of Ireland. Even so, she doesn't expect to find herself shipwrecked and then rescued by a man she believed she would never see again. A man who, long ago, held her life in his hands . . . and with it, her heart.


Reformed rake Sir Grant Dunmore knew he could never forget the beautiful woman he once endangered nor will he ever forgive himself. But history seems doomed to repeat itself, for as long as Caroline stays on the island, she is trapped in a secret plot that could forever free Ireland-or turn deadly for all. And yet, now that she is in his arms again, how can he dream of ever letting her go?

This book is the third in a series, but it’s not necessary to read the other two first. The story takes place in Ireland in the early 1800s. Caroline is a widow, who is in love with libraries, books, and the history of Ireland. In fact, she is recording Ireland’s history and there is one rare book in particular that she needs. Caroline knows that Grant Dunmore, who lives on the island of Muirin Inish, has a copy of this book.

Grant and Caroline have a little bit of an unusual history together, but they haven’t seen each other for a while. Caroline decides to go to the island for the book, and just maybe to see if Grant is the same person that he was when she knew him last.

This book takes you on an adventure from the first page with Caroline traveling by sea to Muirin Inish. She gets shipwrecked and then rescued by none other than Grant Dumore. Caroline and Grant have good chemistry together. They seemed to find themselves in one situation after another, and it was interesting to see how it would affect them and how they would pull through.

I really like how Caroline is portrayed as a strong, determined woman. Something she says to Grant is, “We will speak of this again, and again and again, until you see things my way.” (p. 23) She knows what she wants, what she likes, and she doesn’t question or doubt herself. Her character is refreshing that way.

There were a lot of times when I wanted to stop reading (to sleep or run an errand) but the chapter would end in a cliffhanger and I had to keep reading to find out what happened! However, there were also times when I found myself rereading the same paragraph because it just wasn’t captivating me at that point. Overall though, it was definitely a good read.

My Rating:

Pam

This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Never a Gentleman by Eileen Dreyer

Never a Gentleman
~Eileen Dreyer

Mass Market Paperback: 480 pages
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: April 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 9780446542067
ISBN-13: 978-0446542067
ASIN: 0446542067

From Goodreads:
HE HIDES HIS TRUE COLORS . . .
Miss Grace Fairchild is under no illusions about her charms. Painfully plain, she is a soldier's daughter who has spent her life being useful, not learning the treacherous ways of the ton. She may have been caught in a scandal with society's favorite rogue, but how can she marry him when it means losing herself?

WHILE SHE HIDES HER TRUE SELF . . .
Diccan Hilliard doesn't know which of his enemies drugged him and dumped him in Grace's bed, but he does know the outcome. He and Grace must marry. To his surprise, a wild, heady passion flares between them. Yet Diccan is trapped in a deadly game of intrigue Grace knows nothing about. Will his lies destroy Grace just as he realizes how desperately he needs her? And how can he hope for a future with her, when an old enemy has set his murderous sights on them both?

Grace Fairchild is a soldier's daughter, on her way to Dover. She wakes up in Cantebury, in the arms of Diccan Hilliard, a notorious rake. Neither knows how they got there. To save Grace's reputation as a lady and Diccan's reputation as a gentleman, they quickly marry.

Grace is devastated, she'd been planning on finally living life on her own terms, no longer traveling the world with her father, settling down and raising horses. Diccan is a spy, and after this incident he's not sure who to trust.

Once they get to London and Diccan tries to figure out the political intrigue he's involved in, he gets caught up in lies and deceptions, and while his enemies are trying to destroy him, he is slowly destroying Grace.

My thoughts: From perusing Goodreads and Amazon, it's obvious this book has created quite a stir, however, I received this book from the publisher and hadn’t read any reviews before I started reading it. The back blurb sounded good and I thought I’d settle in for a nice Marriage of Convenience historical.

I'm just going to get straight to the point with a High 5/Low 5:
*highlight spoilers (1, 2, and 5) to view*

Here's what I had problems with:
1. Her UNCLE brought her down to watch her husband having sex with his mistress? Her UNCLE?!?
2. As she's watching her husband have sex with his mistress she's getting aroused? No way.
3. I couldn't believe her request to her husband after that.
4. We get it, she's plain. Maybe even ugly. I had a hard time believing all the people who told her that she was ugly and treated her so badly.
5. Diccan's continued mistreatment of Grace. Even though he was "undercover", he had to have known that his repeated insults were unforgivable; especially after he saw how everyone else treated her. spoiler--> I had hoped that he was only giving the illusion of cheating, since they were just married... I knew he wouldn't be cheating on his new wife, right? Wrong!

What I liked:
1. Kate and Bea. They were great friends and I wish she would have unburdened herself to them sooner.
2. I loved that Grace had such a faithful following in her Grenadiers. I wish she had married one of them...
3. Grace's memories of traveling abroad. Her adventures and her love of color were a nice surprise.
4. I loved when Grace stood up to Diccan at Longbridge; we hear so much about Grace's steely resolve, it was fun to witness firsthand.
5. The scenes in the latter half of the book where she was "ill" were wonderfully written and had me all wrapped up in Grace's misery. Hubs actually looked over at me questioningly when I whispered "oh, honey" to poor Grace.

So, while the writing was wonderful and the political intrigue was very good, I couldn't get past "the incident" and the actions that accompanied it.

My Rating:

This book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: It Happened One Bite by Lydia Dare

It Happened One Bite
~Lydia Dare

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publish Date: March 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 1402245076
ISBN-13: 978-1402245077

From Goodreads:
Blaire Lindsay's been warned that her ancestral home is haunted. But it will take more than tales of a ghost to frighten Blaire, a battle-born witch with supernatural strength and the ability to make sparks fly from her fingertips. Hearing spectral wails, she decides to search for their source, and is surprised to find a handsome young man chained to the dungeon wall. But when Blair frees James from his bonds, she quickly discovers she's unloosed far more than she could ever have imagined...Soon the castle is overrun with vampires whose perfect manners and compelling blood lust make for some very awkward moments, and Blair and James are joined in the fight of their lives to save everything they hold dear from the forces of evil...

Blaire Lindsay is a witch - one of a coven of five powerful Scottish witches. Her brother has inherited Briarcraig Castle, so she must go with him to inspect it and see if it is hospitable.

James Maitland, Lord Kettering, has been in a magically-induced sleep for 20 years, in the bowels of the castle. The last thing he remembers is being surrounded by a group of five witches... When Blaire gets to the castle, Kettering stirs. He doesn't know how long he's been asleep, where he is, or why he woke up.

When Blaire finds him in the cellar, she is as confused as he is, but offers hospitality. She is curious about him and wants to find out why her coven's mothers would have trapped him. Kettering is intrigued by Blaire, she doesn't respond to his vampyre suggestions. As they spend more time together, attraction between them grows.

Kettering must find his ring - one of three given to his master by an ancient clan of witches, it allows him to roam in the sunlight. As soon as Kettering is awakened, his master can senses him and rushes to the castle, thankful that he is "alive" and anxious to find out what happened to him. The only problem with that is that the other vampyre tied to their group, Sarah, also senses Kettering. They know Sarah is seeking revenge and coming for Kettering.

My thoughts: I am a huge fan of Lydia Dare's werewolves, so when I heard they were doing vampires, I was thrilled! The story was cute, but did drag a bit in spots, such as hunting for the ring and pondering the reasons for trapping Kettering. I really liked the vamps though - Kettering and his maker, the Earl of Blodswell were both delightful. Of all the witches in the coven, I think Blaire has been my least favorite, and that was apparent in this book; she's very arguementative and I found myself a bit put-off by it. We do get to see some of our old friends again and catch up on what's been happening with the other witches; Alex MacQuarie has a big storyline in this book that I'm looking forward to following in future books. I'm not sure how I feel about Kettering's final situation; it's a happy ending, but seemed a bit too "easy" for this reader. All in all though, It Happened One Bite is a wonderful installment to this fabulous series!

This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Notorious Pleasures by Elizabeth Hoyt

Notorious Pleasures
~Elizabet Hoyt

Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Vision
Publish Date: February 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 0446558958
ISBN-13: 978-0446558952


From the author's website:
Their lives were perfect . . .
Lady Hero Batten, the beautiful sister of the Duke of Wakefield, has everything a woman could want, including the perfect fiancé. True, the Marquis of Mandeville is a trifle dull and has no sense of humor, but that doesn't bother Hero. Until she meets his notorious brother . . .

Until they met each other.
Griffin Remmington, Lord Reading, is far from perfect - and he likes it that way. How he spends his days is a mystery, but all of London knows he engages in the worst sorts of drunken revelry at night. Hero takes an instant dislike to him, and Griffin thinks that Hero, with her charities and faultless manners, is much too impeccable for society, let alone his brother. Yet their near-constant battle of wits soon sparks desire - desire that causes their carefully constructed worlds to come tumbling down. As Hero's wedding nears, and Griffin's enemies lay plans to end their dreams forever, can two imperfect people find perfect true love?

Lady Hero Batten is pledged to marry the Marquis of Mandeville. She's pleased with this arrangement, as he seems very honorable, good looking, and is a friend of her brother, the Duke of Wakefield. She understands that marriages are arranged for advantageousness, not love.

Griffin Remmington (Lord Reading), the Marquis' younger brother, is a rake of the highest order - when Hero first runs into him, he's in flagrante with a married woman. Of course she's not impressed, and they go their separate ways....until the Duke introduces them.

Hero later hears from her aunt that Reading seduced the Marquis' late wife, and so she resolves to stay away from him. Except that he comes across her in a shady section of town and refuses to leave her alone lest she is attacked. Hero is in this area of town because she is patroness for an orphanage, and she's checking on the orphanage as well as the construction of a new orphanage. Reading tells her he will accompany her whenever she goes to the orphanage, or he will tell her brother she's making these trips - she knows her brother would not approve.

We learn that Reading is in this section of town because he runs a gin still, and he is checking on that. Gin is becoming an epidemic in London, families are broken, people are dying. Competition between the gin distillers is deadly and fierce.

As Hero spends more time with Reading, she learns he is not the man society thinks he is - and she's falling in love with him....

My thoughts:
I have different thoughts about this book; I loved Hero and Reading's story. It was so romantic and I loved how Ms. Hoyt brought them together slowly and tentatively, then when they did get together they were explosive. Loved it.

The gin storyline was a bit much but the additional complication between Hero and Reading left me reading faster and faster, wanting to see how they were going to resolve their issues.

The part of the story I didn't get was the inhabitants of the orphanage. I did not read the first book in this series, Wicked Intentions, and I think maybe I should have. I could not keep the characters separate: I was thoroughly confused by the ghost, the sailor lost at sea, the baby who got mysterious gifts, and the strangely named employees.

All in all though, the romance between Hero and Reading was riveting and I could not put this book down - I wanted to see how these two were going to get their HEA and was very pleased with the results.

My Rating:

This book was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: How to Marry a Duke by Vicky Dreiling

How to Marry a Duke
~Vicky Dreiling

Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Forever; Original edition (January 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446565377
ISBN-13: 978-0446565370


From the author's website:
Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne, is a man with a mission: find a wife he can tolerate as long as they both shall live. No love is necessary—nor desired. But how to choose amid a dizzying array of wealthy-yet-witless candidates? Hire London’s infamously prim and proper matchmaker. Then pretend she’s not the most captivating woman he’s ever met . . .

Helping a devilish Duke create a contest to pick his perfect mate is the kind of challenge Tessa Mansfield relishes. Her methods may be scandalous, but she’s determined to find the notorious bachelor more than a wife—she’ll bring him true love. Yet when Tessa watches the women vie for the Duke’s affections, she longs to win his heart herself. And after a stolen kiss confirms Tristan’s desire, Tessa knows she has broken a matchmaker’s number one rule: never fall in love with the groom.

Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne, is England's most eligible bachelor. He's tired of picking up dropped fans and bumping into young ladies pushed into his path by their mothers. He runs into Tessa at a ball and learns that she's a matchmaker. At first he scoffs, then thinks maybe that's what he needs - he knows he needs to marry soon to carry on his Dukedom but doesn't want a silly, featherheaded girl for a bride.

Tessa Mansifield is firmly on the spinster shelf at age 26. She's resigned to her fate and enjoys making advantageous matches for women of less fortune. She is independently wealthy and enjoys the freedom of managing her own livlihood. When Tristan approaches her about finding him a wife, she hesitates - he's made it clear he's not looking for a love match - but eventually agrees.

Of course there's conflict in the form of a long-lost suitor of Tessa's with less than chivalrous intentions, as well as Tessa and Tristian's growing affection for each other.

Tessa and Tristian were so cute together! They ended up with a Bachelor 1800's-type scenario - 24 young ladies all vying for the Duke's hand. As they would meet for an outing (tea, opera, house party), he would decide who would be invited to the next gathering, until he had it narrowed down to two young ladies. There were several laugh-out-loud moments, and a few tender ones as well.

In addition to Tristian and Tessa, I enjoyed reading the side characters - Tristian's mother at first came off as mean but I warmed to her quite nicely and grew to like her very much, Tristian's best friend Hawk was rougish and fun, and two of the young contestants were very sweet.

This book was a pleasant surprise. I’m not a fan of the cover (I think it’s the model – he has a strange look about him), so I wasn’t sure what to expect and happily fell right into the story. I didn’t like the abrubt ending, however, I wish it could have been drawn out a bit more.

How to Marry a Duke is Ms. Dreiling's first novel and I will definitely be back for more! I read the excerpt of the next book, How to Seduce a Scoundrel, and am looking forward to that story in July (to avoid spoilers I can't say who the hero/heroine are, but it's going to be good!).

My Rating:

This book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: A Season of Seduction by Jennifer Haymore (and giveaway!)

From the author's website:
Although the widowed Lady Rebecca has sworn off marriage, men are another matter. London’s cold winter nights have her dreaming of warmer pursuits-like finding a lover to satisfy her hungry heart. Someone handsome, discreet, and most importantly as uninterested in marriage as she is. Someone like Jack Fulton.

A known adventurer and playboy, Jack seems like the perfect choice. There’s just one problem: Jack isn’t interested in an affair. He needs the beautiful, mysterious Lady Rebecca to be his wife. And he doesn’t have much time to persuade her. A secret from Jack’s past is about to surface, and by Christmas Day he’ll be either married to Rebecca or dead.

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A Season of Seduction is the third book in Ms. Haymore's Tristan Family series. I read the 2nd book, A Touch of Scandal (my review here), and really liked the heroine of this book, Rebecca.

As the story opens, Lady Rebecca (Becky) is about to embark on an assignation with Jack Fulton, a sailor recently embarked in London, whom she's become almost intimately acquainted with. Whom she wants to be intimately acquainted with. After the death of her husband four years ago, Rebecca hasn't wanted anyone like she wants Jack. She knows it's improper, but with the help of her dear friend, Cecelia, she's arranged to be with him tonight - alone. Things are moving right along, and then...her brother bursts into the hotel room and catches them, undressed and in bed together! Of course there's an audience to her disgrace, and she knows propriety dictates that she accept Jack's proposal of marriage. The problem is, she just can't do it.

Lady Rebecca's last marriage was so horrible, she doesn't ever want to be married again. He wooed her and convinced her he loved her, then planned to kill her for her money! She never wants to be dependent on a man again. What she doesn't know is that Jack needs to marry her because he is being blackmailed; he needs her dowry. He's got a history he's briefly told her about, but didn't give her all the facts, and is trying to manipulate her into marriage.

I enjoyed A Season of Seduction, Ms. Haymore's writing is descriptive - I could picture the events as they were unfolding. I liked Becky, and I wanted to like Jack, but I just couldn't. He was earnest and he loved her, but when you got down to it, he was using her. I was frustrated that when he finally decided to tell her the truth, his first thought is that his family would help him with his "issues" - that seemed kind of smarmy to me.

My feelings about the hero aside, it was a good story. Becky was a sweet heroine, and it was nice to see the characters from the previous book. (It can definitely be read as a stand-alone though) We met some new characters, Becky's friend Cecelia, and Jack's friend, Lord Stratford, whom I hope to see in the next book :)

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Forever
Release Date: October 1, 2010
ISBN-10: 0446540285
ISBN-13: 978-0446540285

My Rating:

I have an ARC of Book 2 (A Touch of Scandal) and A Season of Seduction to give away (obviously I've read them but they're still in good condition) to one lucky commenter. Just leave a comment telling me you want to win them. Must be a GFC follower. Ends November 29.

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This book was received by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Taming of the Wolf by Lydia Dare

From the author's website:
Regency England has gone to the wolves!

He could never lose control… Dashiel Thorpe, Earl of Brimsworth, has spent his life fighting the wolf within him. But when the full moon rises, Dash is helpless. A chance encounter with Caitrin Macleod on a moonlit night inadvertently binds the two together irrevocably, and Dash’s impulsiveness plunges them both into a nightmare…

She never saw him coming… Caitrin Macleod is no quiet country lass, but a witch with remarkable abilities. But when it comes to Dashiel, she’s as helpless to fight his true nature as he is. Her senses overwhelmed, she runs back to the safety and security of her native Scotland… But Dashiel is determined to follow her—she’s the only woman who can free him from a fate worse than death. And Caitrin will ultimately have to decide whether she’s running from danger, or true love…

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After finishing the last book in this series, The Wolf Next Door, I didn't think I'd like the hero or heroine in The Taming of the Wolf. I'll admit it - I was wrong - Lydia Dare does it again! I think you know I'm a huge fan of this series, and this book did not disappoint; this is my 2nd favorite book in the series (A Certain Wolfish Charm is still my fave).

The story: While wandering the Westfield's castle, unable to sleep, Caitlin Macleod wanders into the study to find her book. She knows she must stay in the house because it is a full moon, and the Lycan family she is staying with has impressed upon her that it is safer that way.

Unbeknownst to her, someone is in the study - Dashiel Thorpe, Earl of Brimsworth. Dash is also a Lycan, although he has an unpleasant history with the Westfield family, and they are holding him in the study until they can decide what to do with him. Dash is immediately attracted to Cait, and kisses her...then bites her! She runs off and he's confused about why he just did that. Long story short, he claimed her! He's got to convince her to marry him or he will be alone the rest of his life until one of them dies.

Cait is a witch who sees the future of the people around her. She didn't want her best friend and fellow witch to marry a Lycan, and she certainly is not interested in this Lycan for herself. But he calms her, and when she touches him she gets a reprieve from all the future images that constantly bombard her when she's around people. And she did enjoy that kiss....

My thoughts: Loved it! Dash had such a sad history, he didn't know he was a Lycan until just a few days before this book takes place, he thought he was a monster. I felt sympathy for him and he was so sweet and vulnerable underneath that Alpha demeanor. (And he growls alot - yum!) Cait was stubborn and witchy - I laughed when she tricked him into drinking a sleep draught :)

There's a not-quite love triangle going on. Alec McQuarrie is still pursuing Cait, even though she's told him he's not in her future he refuses to give up. Dash and Alec butt heads a few times, and Cait just rolls her eyes. And when Dash and Cait get to Scotland and another suitor comes out - poor Dash! I loved it! Also loved the book Cait picked up at the beginning of the story - poor Dash just can't catch a break, haha!

So, in summary, great story, fun characters, sweet romance. What's not to love?

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Release Date: November 1, 2010
ISBN-10: 1402244371
ISBN-13: 978-1402244377

My Rating:

Come back on November 23 for an interview with the writing team of Lydia Dare - I'll also be giving away 1 set of the 4 Lydia Dare Books (A Certain Wolfish Charm, Tall Dark and Wolfish, The Wolf Next Door and The Taming of the Wolf)!

This book was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Never A Bride by Amelia Grey

From the author's website:
Her name is on everyone’s lips . . .
When he left for America six years ago, the handsome Viscount Stonehurst never suspected that he would return home to England to find his lovely fiancé embroiled in the scandal of the decade. The woman he planned on making his wife has been kissing every man in London . . . except him!

But scandal doesn’t matter in search of the truth . . .
Engaged and then abandoned, Mirabella Wittingham is determined to find the man who drove her cousin to suicide, even if it means ruining her reputation and disgracing herself in the process . . .


When her plans go awry, Mirabella has no choice but to turn to her long-lost fiancé for help. But can she trust the man who deserted her so many years ago, or is he destined to fail her yet again?

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This is my first book by Amelia Grey. I'd heard wonderful things about her Rogues' Dynasty series and was looking forward to reading Never A Bride.

The premise of the story was good: Mirabella's father secured her engagement to Viscount "Cam" Brackley. Cam then had no intention of marrying Mirabella until he was old, he only agreed to the engagement because her dowry would help his father pay off debts. Six years later, Mirabella's father demands he come back and marry or Cam's father must repay the portion of dowry he already received.

Mirabella, however, knows none of this - only that her fiancee has been gone and will probably not come back any time soon. She is on a mission to find out who disgraced her cousin so badly that the cousin committed suicide. In order to do that, she must get the young men of the ton alone and get her finger into their neckcloths in search of a scar the cousin had written about in her diary. Needless to say Mirabella is starting to get a bit of a reputation when Cam unexpectely returns.

Here's the thing: I liked both Mirabella and Cam, just not together. They were both lovely characters but they didn't "mesh" for me. It was like they just kept bumping up against each other but didn't quite connect. My other problem was that I guessed the "whodunit" very early into the book. I would have preferred a bit of mystery and suspense on that front. It was frustrating to watch Mirabella go through all her machinations when I already knew who it was.

We also met Cam's best childhood friend, who was unexplainably mean to both Cam and Mirabella, but we never found out why he was such a jerk - jealousy? I'm not sure what he would be jealous of as he was already titled and married and had an heir. I was a bit confused on that point.

As I mentioed above, while I did like the main characters, this book was just not a good match for me.

My rating:

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Seduced by a Highlander by Paula Quinn

From the author's website:
Book#2 in the Children of the Mist series
His kiss is her undoing...

SINS THAT CAN’T BE FORGIVEN
Tristan MacGregor is famed throughout the Highlands as a silver-tongued seducer and an unrepentant rogue. Bold and charming, he’s dallied with many women, yet none as beguiling and mysterious as the lass he steals a kiss from at the king’s court. Little does he know this beauty is one of his clan’s greatest enemies. br>

PASSION THAT CAN’T BE DENIED
Isobel Fergusson has despised the bloodthirsty MacGregors ever since they murdered her father. When she learns the handsome stranger who melted her resistance is a MacGregor, she vows to forget him. But Tristan means to possess her at any cost and Isobel’s body turns traitor at his touch. Can a man she’s sworn to hate be the only one she can ever love?

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I had not read Ms. Quinn's first book in this series, Ravished by a Highlander, but when the opportunity arose to read the 2nd book in the series, Seduced by a Highlander, I jumped on it!

10 years ago, young Tristan MacGregor got into a fight with young Alex Fegusson. It spiraled out of control and when the dust cleared, Tristan's favorite uncle was dead, and Alex's widowed father was dead too - leaving his older brother Patrick as leader of the Fergusson clan. Patrick and Isobel were still children themselves, and had to take care of their 5 younger brothers, leaving them susceptable to raids from stronger clans nearby. The bitterness between the MacGregors and Fergussons was deep and strong.


I am a sucker for handsome, rogue-ish Highlanders. The kilts, the speech, the stubborn perseverance...I love it all. I liked Tristan, very much. He was a sympathetic hero - I don't know if you could call him a Beta hero or not - he knew how to fight and was good at it, but he preferred to convince you to see his way of things instead of beating you until you give in. His father and brothers were more prone to get their way by fighting, Tristan was more like his dead uncle.

Isobel was a terrific heroine - spunky, opinionated, fiercely loyal to her family. She was a hard worker and cared for her brothers very much.

I was captured from Isobel and Tristan's first meeting. The back-and-forth between them was lively and engaging. When Tristan goes to Isobel's home to try to set things right - hilarity ensues. Isobel's brothers were very funny, as was Tristan's reaction to them. I've said before I don't like kids in my romance stories but these kids were funny.

I really, really enjoyed this book - the end was a bit abrubt, I would have liked a bit more detail, but other than that it was a sweet story.

My rating:

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Awakened by a Kiss by Lila DiPasqua

From the Author's website:
Three classic fairytales—“Sleeping Beauty,” “Puss in Boots,” and “Little Red Riding Hood”—cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist…

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, the notorious rake, Adrien d’Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss—and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress—and this time, he has no intention of letting her go…

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger…

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants—and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King’s private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was—and more than man enough for her..

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The premise of this book sounded very interesting - erotic fairy tales? They were not exactly what I'd expected but I did find the book enjoyable.

In Sleeping Beau, Adrien is the newly legitimate son of the king. He's at a house party where all the ton is there, when he spies a stunning woman - a woman he'd had an unbelieveable encounter with five years previously. She'd come to his bed, had amazingly erotic sex, and then left him without a backward glance. He'd not forgotten her since. Catherine has her reasons for the events of that evening, and when she arrives at her friend's home and sees Lord Adrien she is upset. He eventually corners her and she slowly reveals her reasons for their encounter. He convinces her to agree to a daliance while they are staying on the estate, until her betrothed comes to claim her; he doesn't mention his sister is her betrothed's mistress...

This story was very erotic. Catherine had a history that made me want an HEA for her. Adrien was a good as hero, the reformed rake, smitten by the "mystery woman" who tamed his heart. The events at the end of the story came as a surprise, and tied neatly in with the original fairy tale.

~~~~~~~

In Little Red Writing, Nicholas nickname The Wolf) is a Musketeer, searching his estranged grandmother's home for evidence of an author penning illegal books. He's narrowed it down to the three sisters living in his grandmother's home, but doesn't know which one it is. Anne and her sisters write the stories, aiding women who have no one else to turn to - airing their grievances while at the same time exposing the male aristocracy for the insults committed against those who are helpless in society (ie, women). As cold-hearted Nicholas begins his investigation, he is taken by the beauty of Anne, and after bedding her, begins to fall in love.

Anne's past had shaped her into a bitter woman, focusing only on the injustices in life, until Nicholas showed her passion. By the time Nicholas acknowledged his feelings for Anne, it was too late - the King demanded an audience. At first I wasn't too fond of Nicholas, but by the end of the story he surprised me and won me over! (And it wasn't just the desk sex!!)

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Bewitching in Boots has two of my favorite storylines: Enemies to Lovers, and Women in Historical Novels Who Wear Men's Clothing (I don't know why I like that but I do!). I think this was my favorite of the three stories - Elizabeth, favored daughter of the King, arrives at the home of Tristan, the King's former chief guard, planning to seduce him into her bed and into marriage, which will be difficult to do as he hates her. Elizabeth knows the king is planning to marry her off again and this time she wants to choose her husband. This was a nice story and I liked both the hero and heroine. There was some light bondage (yay!) and the ending made me happy.

I think sometimes with short stories, the authors have to jump right into the "good stuff" so they can occasionally feel a bit abrubt. These stories were an entertaining take on traditional fairy tales, every now and then I'd catch something and think "yes, from the original fairy tale", which made it fun.

My rating:

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory

Knight of Passion is not your typical boy meets girl, boy wants girl, heaving bosoms and flirtations ensue story.

As the story opens, Jamie and Linett are young an in love/lust with each other and have been able to arrange a tryst in an empty room in the castle. Jamie doesn't know Lynette has arranged for them to be caught so that she might escape her father's promise of her virginity to Sir Guy, a snake among men. Naturally Jamie is devistated by her deception and leaves.

Five years later, we meet Jamie again, on his way to the castle to offer his protection to the newly widowed young queen. He meets an old man who's Lady is in trouble. As Jamie steps in to assist, he realizes the Lady is Linette. He hasn't forgotten her over the years, but her betrayal still stings. Lynette is on her way to see the Queen - a good friend. Of course Jamie and Linette end up spending time together, which neither of them wants. Jamie wants to find a nice, well-behaved wife while he's at court. Linette wants revenge against the person or persons who swindled her grandfather when he got to senile to realize he was being cheated; his death left Linette and her twin brother destitute and alone.

Lynette and Jamie keep ending up together and act on their passion,which has not quelled during their time apart. They agree it's temporary but exclusive. In reality Jamie wants to marry Linette but knows he must broach the subject slowly, building up to it so as not to scare her off. Linette doesn't want to be controlled by a man - she is single minded in her need for revenge.

Linette is the angriest heroine I have ever read in a historical romance. I was just as upset as Jamie that she would not give up her revenge for his love. I wanted a HEA for these two so badly, and every time it seemed they would get together, some clue would come up and Linette would go chasing it, leaving Jamie behind. I will say this about Jamie - he was not some pushover who waited around once he realized where Linette's intentions lay. Once he decided Linette was not going to give up her revenge, his courtship of Agnes was quite funny. Not to worry, for those of you who need a HEA - Ms. Mallory does deliver!

The secondary characters were quite engaging - the Queen was a bit of a ditz but you couldn't help but feel badly for her situation. Jamie's squire Martin was adorable - I hope we get to see him in a future book!

I know this review has rambled a bit - I didn't even get to the devil worshippers or the political intrigue! And, I totally guessed the wrong villian :)

As angry as Linette was, and as frustrated as I was with Linette and Jamie's lack of communication, I did enjoy this book. I give Knight of Passion 3 1/2 out of 5 stars!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Ravished by a Highlander by Paula Quinn

You know I love my highlanders; nothing's sexier than an alpha male with a brogue and a kilt!

As Ravished by a Highlander begins, we meet Davina Montgomery - she's been disguised as a novice at a convent in England. She's been there since birth, and for the last 4 years her main companion and friend has been Captain Asher, leader of the men assigned to protect her.

Robert MacGregor is the son of a highland laird, and he and his brothers are on their way to meet his father at the coronation of the new king. As they are riding, they come upon the convent under attack. They join in the conflict, and as Asher lays dying, he begs Robert to save her and keep her safe. Against his better judgement, Rob agrees to the dying man's wishes. He doesn't know who she is or why she needs protecting, but he is a man of his word.

After many stops and surprises (some pleasant, some unpleasant), they decide to go to Robert's home on Skye, where he knows he can protect her against any intruders. Although she has kept her identity from him, he has figured it out and knows how dangerous it will be to protect her. Robert understands the weight of the responsibility he is undertaking, but he finds he cares about her, and will do anything to keep her safe and near him.


My thoughts:

I enjoyed this book. For much of the first half I was a bit frustrated - it was hinted at many, many times that she had a secret identity and if anyone found out trouble would ensue. But once the storyline kept moving, and her identity was revealed to the reader, I enjoyed it more. There was a lot of political intrigue, but I was able to keep all the parties separate and it was not hard to follow. I'll admit I was surprised at who the traitor was.

The scenes that took place once they reached Rob's castle were the ones that drew me in. The images of the castle, and the surrounding countryside were wonderful. I liked that we were able to see a more playful side of Davina, it made her a more engaging character. Rob is just delicious! His scenes with Davina were so sexy and tender; I wanted this HEA for them and I didn't see how it was going to work out!

It was scenes like this, where this hard, strong highlander was brought to his knees, that made my heart break:

Rob barely heard him and lifted his arm to swipe the swords out of his way. His wife's cry stopped him.

"Please, please, Rob. You cannot die."

"I am dead if he takes ye from me," Rob told her across the length of the blades, desperation hardening his face and softening his voice.

Oh, so, so sweet!

I also enjoyed reading about Rob's family; I liked his aunts and cousins. I was especially captivated by his brothers and brothers-in-arms; they were quite entertaining and I hope they all get their own stories.

So, after a slow start I did really enjoy the 2nd half of this book and am looking forward to the next book in this series - Seduced by a Highlander, which IS about one of Rob's brothers :)

I give Ravished by a Highlander 3 1/2 stars!



This book was provided to me by the publisher free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Master and the Muses by Amanda McIntyre

I'd heard good things about Amanda McIntyre's work, but hadn't read any of her books, so when this came up at NetGalley, I jumped on it. Oh, I'm so glad I did!

The Master and The Muses is the story of Thomas Rodin, a 19th century painter, who is part of a band of artists who are fighting for recognition of their avant guarde works by The Royal Academy. This story is told in three parts.

Book 1: Helen
Helen is a young woman working in a hat shop, when she is approached by a handsome young man, William. William wants her to come model for his brother, Thomas Rodin. Helen rejects his offer but William is persistent and she starts to like him. She finally agrees to model for Thomas, and, feeling a bit reckless and bold, stops fighting her attraction and has sex with William. Afterwards, William tells her Thomas must never know about their feelings for each other, as she is Thomas' muse. Helen is heartbroken but agrees to pose for Thomas. William becomes more and more distant as Helen and Thomas become closer. However, the course of events that Helen wishes for her future is not what she imagined.

My thoughts: Oh, this story ripped my heart out, stomped around on it, and handed it back strung together with twine and duct tape. Ms. McIntyre's writing instantly transported me to another time and place, watching the story of someone else's life unfold. Helen's hopes and dreams, her joy and sadness, and finally, her understanding of herself. Absolutely beautiful.

Book 2: Sara
This book begins a few weeks before ending of Helen's story. Sara is an orphan, living with her uncle and his family on their family farm. She is innocent, but understands the ways of the world and has figured out that sex can be used to get what she wants. What Sara wants is not a husband and family, but an education and travel. When she meets an artist at the theatre (which she snuck away from the farm to attend), he offers her a job as his model. When her uncle's family finds her employment as a nanny/housekeeper, she knows she must get out and sees Thomas as her way to do that. She moves into the studio apartment, and eventually she and Thomas become lovers - until he leaves her in the care of a new painter, Edward, while Thomas goes to go to Rome.

My thoughts: This story wasn't heartbreaking like Helen's story, but there were definitely highs and lows. Sara knows what she wants for herself and doesn't want to settle for less. She has doubts, especially when her cousin contacts her with news from home, but she remains steadfast in her desires for her future. One thing I liked about this portion of the story was that as soon as I thought we were done with Thomas' part of the story, he comes back in, front and center, and shakes things up a bit.

Book 3: Grace
Grace is a prostitute, and she appears in brief but significant spots in both of the previous stories so I kind of figured Grace would be the third story. I didn't like her much - until I got into her story. When she meets Thomas, his offer to model seems to be a way for her to end her current profession. She eventually becomes intimately involved with Thomas, but ends their friendship after a huge fight. Fast forward one year and Thomas is married to Helen. Grace and Thomas rekindle their friendship, and they work together a bit as well. When Thomas finds Sara, Grace watches their story unfold. Through her association wilth the other members of the Brotherhood, stays in touch with Thomas intermittently, dropping in to assist during difficult times, sometimes against her better judgement.

My thoughts: As I went into Grace's story, I didn't like her very much. I wasn't thrilled that the third book would be about Grace, but Ms. McIntyre brought me around, to see the other side of the previous stories through Grace's eyes. We got to see the turning points of the other stories with a new twist; Grace's story brought the book full circle. Her POV is, I think, the best view of Thomas' psyche - his methods, his needs, his raison d'etre. By the end of the story I felt bad for Thomas, although I didn't really like him very much; however, that doesn't change the fact that his story was fascinating.

The Master and the Muses was an emotional roller coaster and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Ms. McIntyre's writing is so vivid I could see every scene I give it 4.5/5 stars!

This book is available for purchase June 1, 2010.

This book was provided to my be NetGalley free of charge in exchange for an honest review.