The Romantic post

The Devilish Montague-Patricia Rice

2011-06-14T12:09:00.002-07:00

The Devilish Montague
Patricia Rice
Signet, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 978-0451234056

Still recovering from war injuries suffered on the Peninsular, Lord Blake Montague applies for a position as a cryptologist in the War Office, but is rejected. Instead War Secretary Lord Castlereagh advises Blake to marry wealth as his family cannot afford to waste money on the spare to buy his colors; only a moneyed bride could as the stunned Blake sarcastically states: “I should marry to save England?”

Blake meets Miss Jocelyn Byrd-Carrington and the prince of profanity Percy the Parrot who she just bird-napped from the Duke of Fortham. She explains to Blake Percy belongs to her brother Richard so she is justified in rescuing the foul mouthed fowl. Meanwhile, Blake finds life with Jocelyn, her family and the animal kingdom invigorating though life changing. However, a series of accidents has Blake conclude someone has tried to kill him. With Richard, French cursing Percy and the parrot’s soul mate assisting him, Blake breaks a secret code in which he realizes his country is in peril from inside and out.

The second Rebellious Sons Regency romance (see The Wicked Wyckerly) is an amusing marriage of convenience twisted tale. The jocular story line is fun as the extended Bird-Carrington brood (pets are included) is a Regency version of You can’t take it With You as Blake and his fowl comrades brilliantly break the French code but he struggles to break the code of betting on love.

Harriet Klausner

Temptress in Training-Susan Gee Heino

2011-06-14T12:09:00.001-07:00

Temptress in Training
Susan Gee Heino
Berkley, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425242117

In 1812 Sophie Darshaw’s father vanished. Four years later, although she has not given up on finding her father, Sophie Knows she was fortunate to obtain work as a seamstress in Madame Eudora’s upper class brothel when the Madame abruptly sends a stunned Sophie to the estate of Lord Fitzgelder, a rake known for his wild orgies. Sophie is unsure why.

The Earl of Lindley seeks those traitors who killed his family. He feels Fitzgelder is his best source for information so he is at the pervert’s estate. There he meets and rescues Sophie from Fitzgelder. She goes to a nearby inn with him right behind her. Both seduce the other expecting to obtain information, but instead find love. However, neither has time to understand their feelings as they are almost killed by rogues; and soon after she encounters her amoral father. Yet it is a locket she wears that may provide Lindley with the lead he seeks to locating his family’s killers.

The latest Fitzgelder Regency romance is an exciting amateur sleuth espionage thriller starring an Earl on a mission of revenge and a seamstress who was a support character in the previous historical tales (see Damsel in Disguise and Mistress by Mistake). The story line initially feels convoluted as so much happens so fast, readers need a flowchart to follow. However, all converge into a terrific romantic suspense as love and danger collide.

Harriet Klausner

Darkness At Dawn-Elizabeth Jennings

2011-06-14T12:08:00.002-07:00

Darkness At Dawn
Elizabeth Jennings
Berkley, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425242124

When Lucy Merritt was fourteen years old, her CIA operative parents died on a mission in the Himalayan kingdom of Nhala. She watched both of them get killed and chose a quieter and safer lifestyle, that of a book restorer.

However, the monarch is under attack by terrorists. As her father the king is dying, Princess Paso asks America for help specifically requesting her friend Lucy. The CIA recruits Dr. Lucy Merritt who would do almost anything for her friend although she has gigantic doubts about this request. The Feds sweeten the pot by enabling her to look at an ancient document when in the Himalayas. Accompanying her on her ‘pilgrimage” to where her parents died in the line of duty is her fake fiancé U.S. Army Captain Mike Shafer; whose mission is to keep Lucy safe and obtain a flash drive allegedly containing information on the terrorist scheme that threatens millions. However, her courage under fire forces him to reassess his partner as she takes one for the cause.

This is an exhilarating romantic suspense in which readers will feel they are at the top of the world. The lead couple are a wonderful pairing as each is brave, intelligent, caring and knows frozen tundra (he is 10th Mountain); their attraction does not overwhelm the mission. Although the changing viewpoints provide a 360 story line that is two edged as readers understand what is going on from the perspective of the key players but also makes a choppy flow to the action-packed story line. Still fans will feel the biting cold while trekking mountainous Nhala alongside Mike and Lucy.

Harriet Klausner

Cold Touch-Leslie Parrish

2011-06-14T12:08:00.001-07:00

Cold Touch
Leslie Parrish
Signet, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451233004

Twelve years ago, tweener Jack informs fifteen year old Olivia Wainwright the man was going to kill her after he receives the ransom from her parents. He drowns her, but, Jack who condemned her to die brought her back to life. Her return to the living gave her a unique skill of seeing and hearing the death of people she touches.

Following an arson burning down Fast Eddie’s Savannah bar, bones are found in a wall. Now an eXtreme Investigator Olivia realizes this is the remains of the young Jack who saved her life from a psychopath who she believes kidnapped both of them. One touch and she will see the lunatic. Skeptical Homicide Detective Gabe Cooper wants the killer of the child found so he takes a chance on Olivia’s alleged paranormal abilities. However, as he begins to fall in love with her and knows other kids are at risk, the cop fears for the psychic’s life from this insane predator and from her emotional turmoil that is driving her over the edge.

The second Extrasensory Agents romantic suspense (see Cold Sight) is a great thriller that hooks the reader from the onset with the Olivia abduction and never slows down until the final confrontation. The romance is cleverly used to enhance the emotional turmoil of the lead couple while the super investigation remains the prime focus of the story line. With stunning twists, strong lead couple and a predatory psychopath, readers will enjoy Leslie Parrish’s powerful paranormal police procedural.

Harriet Klausner

Spirit of Seduction-Olivia Quincy

2011-06-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Spirit of Seduction
Olivia Quincy
Signet, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451233332

When she was a child, Zoe Bell spent two weeks each summer in the shadows of Chapin House on Chapin Point in Danmouth overlooking Cape Cod Bay. As an adult, due to her successful business ventures on Amazon Zoe can afford to buy Chapin House. Thinking the Cape Cod abode might be the impetus to drive her boyfriend Sam Stafford and her to the next level in their relationship and always dreaming of owning the place, Zoe impetuously buys it.

The purchase works the opposite of what Zoe intended as it becomes a pointed wedge issue between her and Sam who loathes the slow pace of the island compared with his Manhattan lifestyle where he still works while she remains on the Cape for the summer. Meanwhile Zoe becomes aware that Chapin House has a resident of sorts in Robert Chapin. When a homicide of her cantankerous fiftyish neighbor Curtis Nickerson occurs, State Police Detective Andrew DuBois suspects Zoe as much as the ex wife and other locals as the killer; even as she and Ethan, the nephew of the victim, fall in love.

This is an engaging paranormal mystery that is at its best when the focus is on the lead protagonist Zoe. The ensemble support cast includes unnecessary sexual coupling that detracts from prime twin subplots of who killed Nickerson and Zoe’s troubling relationships with Sam, Robert and Ethan. Still, sub-genre readers will enjoy Zoe’s summer of discontent when she learns the hard way that you can’t go home.

Harriet Klausner

Can’t Hurry Love-Christie Ridgway

2011-06-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Can’t Hurry Love
Christie Ridgway
Berkley, Jul 5 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425242100

Almost a year ago the three Baci sisters said they will diligently work for the next twelve months to save the family century old Napa Valley vineyard that was failing. A lot has happened since the trio inherited Baci from their late dad. Two of the sisters have since found love and marriage (see Then He Kissed Me and Can’t Hurry Love). They are committed to stay and work at the vine yard.

The oldest sibling Guiliana remains adamant that she will leave once the year is up in one month even as her apartment has been burned down and her car destroyed. Jules is forced to move to the neighboring vineyard owned by Liam Bennett though they are uncivil with each other as they have been for a long time. However, with a gala planned to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of the vineyard, the couple agree to a one month truce, which will end when she leaves. Their attraction remains hotter than the inferno that destroyed her apartment, but someone stalks Jules with bad intent.

The final Three Kisses contemporary vineyard romance is an engaging tale starring two enemies in love. Although the story line is somewhat typical of the sub-genre and the villain over the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, fans will relish this fun frothy frolic as the lighthearted heated banter between the oldest Baci and her childhood friend and nemesis former lover make for a wonderful read.

Harriet Klausner

The Angel In My Arms-Stefanie Sloane

2011-06-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

The Angel In My Arms
Stefanie Sloane
Ballantine, Jun 28 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780345517401

In 1811 the injured Earl Marcus MacInnes is unhappy with his current Young Corinthians assignment in rustic Dorset near his home as he knows the locals detest his family with good cause. He is to investigate smuggling activity, but not by locals; instead there is evidence that Napoleonic agents are at work.

Marcus meets Sarah Elizabeth Tisdale, a klutzy daughter of the baron. He thinks her family is in cahoots with the dangerous smugglers so he keeps an eye on her, which even in male garb he finds appealing. Soon his inquiry grows deadlier as he deals with homicides, a kidnapping and stolen emeralds as traitors are involved; but it is his heart that he has lost to Sarah that has him concerned.

The latest Regency Rogues Young Corinthian romantic suspense (see The Devil in Disguise) is a fun historical starring a fabulous lead couple and an engaging support cast. The investigation and romance are engaging mostly due to the improbable over the top of Lewesdon Hill Sarah; who brings compassion, courage and clumsiness as she climbs into one caper after another; Marcus will have his hands full with her if he survives the mission.

Harriet Klausner

Make Mine a Bad Boy-Katie Lane

2011-05-20T15:40:00.001-07:00

Make Mine a Bad Boy
Katie Lane
Forever, Jun 1 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780446582797

After five futile years of failing to make it as an actress in Hollywood, Hope Scroggs returns home to Bramble, Texas. However, her plan is hammered on two fronts. First she arrives to meet a twin sister computer programmer Faith Aldridge she had not known existed; and second her high school sweetheart Slate Calhoun is in love with her sibling (see Going Cowboy Crazy).

A jealous Hope plans to put on an Academy Award performance at her sister’s wedding. Coming from Los Angeles is Bramble’s bad boy turned success story Colt Lomax. He crashes Faith’s wedding as he heard Hope is marrying someone else. Although their desire is palatable, their battles seem even more powerful. Will the wild ones realize their attraction is love or will both return to live separate lives in Southern California?

The other twin’s zany Deep in the Heart of Texas romance is an amusing tale due to the eccentric cast starting with the lead couple. Readers will laugh out loud at the antics of the battling Hollywood duet and the matchmaking antics of the townsfolk as Katie Lane provides a jocular contemporary.

Harriet Klausner

Scandal in Scotland-Karen Hawkins

2011-05-20T15:38:00.002-07:00

Scandal in Scotland
Karen Hawkins
Pocket, May 24 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439175934

Renowned actress Marcail Beauchamp sacrificed her happiness by sending away her beloved sea captain William Hurst. She did so as she felt deeply that was best for both of their families. Marcail has never forgotten the only man she has ever loved.

A blackmailer forces Marcail to steal an onyx box from William or else watch her family ruined. Inside the box is an artifact that William needs to free his brother Egyptologist Michael held prisoner by an Egyptian sultan. William is shocked when Marcail meets him on his ship. Her plan is to seduce him, drug him and steal his box. She succeeds and he follows her, but when he catches her, the box is gone. Explaining his sibling’s dire straits, they team up chasing after the person possessing the box.

The second Hurst Amulet Regency romance (see Sleepless in Scotland, The Laird Who Love Me and One Night in Scotland) is an enjoyable second chance at love thriller although the story line feels somewhat like a middle book as the overarching theme moves forward very little. Still the lead couple is a wonderful pairing with this being the first male Hurst to star. Saga fans will enjoy the sea adventure of the actress and the captain.

Harriet Klausner

Lady of Seduction-Laurel McKee

2011-05-20T15:38:00.001-07:00

Lady of Seduction
Laurel McKee
Forever, Jun 1 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780446544771

In 1803 Lady Caroline Blacknall never expected to die off the coast of Ireland, but nasty weather left her shipwrecked and clinging for her life. Her goal was to obtain The Chronicle tome on the barrier island Muirin Inish, but now she prays she survives her ordeal at sea.

Sir Grant Dunmore saves Caroline from downing. However, he is also the man who put her life in peril. She believes there is a good soul inside his rakish exterior and obstinately decides to bring his goodness to the surface. As visitors begin to come to the island, Caroline is caught in the crosshairs of dangerous schemes in which her safety depends on believing her heart that Grant as the man she loves will protect her this time.

The final Daughters of Erin Regency romantic suspense (see Duchess of Sin and Countess of Scandal) is an exiting thriller starring a courageous heroine and a man seeking redemption even if it means his life. The story line is fast-paced as fans of the series will marvel at Laurel McKee’s talent showcased by the metamorphosis of Grant. Sub-genre fans will enjoy the entire well written trilogy.

Harriet Klausner

Lord Langley is Back In Town-Elizabeth Boyle

2011-05-19T12:41:00.002-07:00

Lord Langley is Back In Town
Elizabeth Boyle
Avon, May 31 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061783517

For two years the Ton assumed traitor Ellis, Baron Langley was dead. Now, he is back with plans to uncover who accused him unjustly of treason and why as the widower wants to go home to spend time with his beloved daughters after twenty-five years of loyal service to the Crown.

As he climbs up a drainpipe of his house, the quintet of Nannies invade the same home occupied by Lady Minerva Sterling. While he enters her bedroom, she tosses out the army of ex’s. He offers her a betrothal of convenience so she can avoid scandal and he can avoid women. She accepts but gives him three prim and proper rules that he acquiesces to. Still, as he investigates the accusations, he tries to seduce the ugly flannel off his fiancée; not realizing his adversaries give better opportunities to hold her than his seductive attempts.

The latest Standon Widows Regency romance (see Mad About the Duke and How I Met My Countess) is a great suspense thriller as the disgraced hero works diligently to clear his name and to make it with the prim and proper widow. The story line is fast-paced but it is the zany cast especially the Nannies who make for an entertaining, often amusing, but always dangerous to either the heart or the body tale.

Harriet Klausner

The Sins of Viscount Sutherland-Samantha James

2011-05-19T12:41:00.001-07:00

The Sins of Viscount Sutherland
Samantha James
Avon, May 31 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061765544

Viscount Grayson Sutherland mourns the death of his wife and child as he plans suicide by duel. Instead, he lives while his opponent lies dead. His remorse and guilt on top of his grief makes him a nasty drunk.

The sister of Sutherland’s victim Claire Ashcroft is raging at Sutherland for the death of her brother. Seeking revenge she plans to break the womanizing sop. Thus, she comes to London pretending to be a widow though she has never been married. Her plan is to seduce Sutherland until he falls in love with her; and then leave. However, he seduces the virgin but she becomes pregnant and they agree to marry, which gives her a close look at the darkened soul of a man who can only redeem himself with love.

This engaging historical romance stars two fascinating beloved enemies whose matchmaker is the man Gray shot dead, her brother. The story line focuses on the relationship between the lead couple although the plot has a Bill Murray’s movie Groundhog Day feel as the pair fight over nothings, make love, fight again and make love again, etc. as the deaths that haunt them fade into the background. Still fans will enjoy the redemption of Viscount Sutherland who believes he has so many sins he deserves hell not the heaven offered by Claire.

Harriet Klausner

Scarlet Nights-Jude Deveraux

2011-05-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

Scarlet Nights
Jude Deveraux
Pocket, May 31 2011, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439107997

In Edilean, Virginia, twenty-six years old Sara Shaw and Greg Anders are to marry in three weeks. After receiving a late night call Greg leaves without notifying his fiancée.

Two days after Greg vanished; worried about the safety of his sibling undercover Fort Lauderdale Police Detective Mike Newland enters a still reeling Sara’s apartment. He explains he is the brother of her BFF Tess and is staying with her. He conceals that he is there to catch Greg’s mother Mizelli Vandlo while the FBI wants to nab con artist Anders. As she helps them set up a sting to catch a thief, in his wildest imagination, Mike never expected to fall in love with his hostess while Sara wonders if she is fickle as she reciprocates his deepest regard.

The third Edilean romantic suspense (see Days of Gold and Lavender Morning) moves the town into the present with an engaging police procedural romance. Readers will root for Sara although wonder why an intelligent young woman rebounding from her fiancé’s desertion allows a stranger to bully her. Still Jude Deveraux fans will enjoy the commitment phobic Florida cop and the jilted Virginian falling in love.

Harriet Klausner

Marry Me-Jo Goodman

2010-11-09T11:35:00.001-08:00

Marry Me
Jo Goodman
Zebra, Dec 1 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420101768

In 1884 residents of Reidsville, Colorado offer a medical job to Dr. Coleridge Monroe. He is somewhat surprised since he did not apply. However, he figures his ward since their parents died his sixteen year old sister Whitley did so in his place. She knows he is unhappy at the St. John of God’s hospital in NYC where Dr. Erwin stifles his research.

In Reidsville, at the urging of Sheriff Wyatt Cooper whose wife Rachel pushed him to do so, deputy Will Beatty takes Cole to see two hermits, Judah Abbot and his son Runt. The family was a troupe of actors but the mother died birthing Runt and the older brothers left. While Cole examines Judah, Will finds an almost unconscious Runt bleeding horrifically from a beating. Cole realizes “he” is miscarrying due to a severe battering. Runt tells him her name is Rhyne and she is glad the baby is gone due to the sin. Will takes Judah to jail to keep Cole and Rhyne safe. They stay behind at his house so Rhyne can heal enough to travel. Wyatt and Rachel arrive as she knew Runt was female and pregnant so she sent Cole to her. She knows also Runt was raped. Cole takes Rhyne to his home where Whitley welcomes her warmly. As Rhyne and Cole fall in love a typhoid epidemic spreads killing many people; Cole and others work diligently to save lives and to figure out how it started.

The lead couple is a strong pairing of two interesting people as she was thought to be a man until she miscarried and he is a research physician. His sister, her father and the leads from Never Love a lawman enhance the story line with a great late twist. Although readers will find it difficult to understand how Judah thinks, Marry me is a wonderful western romance.

Harriet Klausner

Passions of a Wicked Earl-Lorraine Heath

2010-10-09T11:41:00.002-07:00

Passions of a Wicked Earl
Lorraine Heath
Avon, Oct 26 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061922961

In 1850 Morgan Lyons, an Earl, married seventeen years old Claire. However, he caught her in the arms of his brother Stephen in the conservatory on their wedding day. Misinterpreting what he sees, he feels betrayed and exiles his bride to rusticate alone in the country while plays the boudoirs of London.

Three years later, having rebuilt his estate, Claire is no longer a frightened child although she knows in her heart her husband distrusts her. However, when her father, who arranged for her to marry Westcliffe, is giving her younger sister one season or she will wed odious Hester, she knows what she must do for her sibling. Claire has come to plead with her husband to help his sister-in-law; if need be though inexperienced she will seduce her mate. Morgan has other plans as he will marry his mistress Lady Anne once he dumps his wife.

This is an exciting Victorian romantic thriller with a fabulous spin and a strong cast. Fast-paced, Morgan has quite a temper as he displays it several times, which is the key to the deep story line. Lorraine Heath once again provides a fabulous historical.

Harriet Klausner

A Suitor for Jenny-Margaret Brownley

2010-10-09T11:41:00.001-07:00

A Suitor for Jenny
Margaret Brownley
Thomas Nelson, Sep 2010, $14.99
ISBN: 9781595548108

In 1881 with the deaths of their parents, Jenny Higgins takes charge of her two younger sisters Brenda and Mary Lou. Her plan is to find suitable husbands for both. Though in her early twenties, Jenny wants no mate for herself.

When she learns Rocky Creek, Texas is filled with eligible bachelors, she and her siblings arrive looking for two spouses. Jenny puts up wanted: husband flyers throughout the town. She interrogates candidates, but finds no one who comes close to meeting her spousal criteria. Meanwhile Marshal Rhett Armstrong is attracted to Jenny and plans to be there when her plans implode, but also has mental scars from his war days. Jenny is falling in love with the law man, but stubbornly rejects her heart as Rhett fails to meet her husband measurement criteria.

The second Rocky Creek historical romance (see A Lady Like Sarah) is an enjoyable inspirational frolic as readers will root for obstinate Jenny whose two track mind is finding two husbands and no more while her siblings seek to find their own spouses. Filled with humor and pathos, with Rhett seeking redemption knowing God forgave him but he has not forgave himself, readers will enjoy this warn inspirational Americana.

Harriet Klausner

Passions of a Wicked Earl-Lorraine Heath

2010-10-09T11:39:00.002-07:00

A Suitor for Jenny-Margaret Brownley

2010-10-09T11:39:00.001-07:00

Ten Ways to be Adored When Landing a Lord-Sarah MacLean

2010-10-09T11:38:00.001-07:00

Ten Ways to be Adored When Landing a Lord
Sarah MacLean
Avon, Oct 26 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061852060

In 1823 England, Pearls and Pelisses ladies magazine explain to its readers how to land a lord and names single aristocrat Nicholas St. John as a “Lord to Land”. Not wanting to marry and already tired of the marriage stalkers even before the article listed him as a top prize, Nicholas decides it is time to leave London.

Following some toad she never met before who informed her that her father sent him to marry hier, Lady Isabel Townsend flees town in disgust while learning dear wastrel dad just died. Lord Leighton asks Nick to find his runaway sister Georgiana, which he agrees to do though insisting he is retired from the bulon days. Meanwhile Isabel needs money to maintain Minerva House for women in trouble so she plans to sell her beloved marble statues. When she is in trouble due to a runaway carriage, Nicholas rescues her. They are attracted to one another as he tries to uncover her dark secrets that she conceals from him and she wonders if he can keep her safe.

The sequel to Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake (Nicholas’ twin brother Gabe’s tale) is an enjoyable Regency romance starring a strong cast especially the intrepid heroine. Fast-paced from the moment that the list places a bulls-eye on Nicholas’ butt and never slows down from there. He and Isabel fall in love while he works on her secrets and finding Georgiana.

Harriet Klausner

Karen Wiesner’s Kaleidoscope Series-Karen Wiesner

2010-10-09T11:36:00.001-07:00

Karen Wiesner’s Kaleidoscope Series
Karen Wiesner
Whiskey Creek Press, Dec 2010, $18.95
ISBN: 9781603138048

Perfect Cadence. Thirty-year-old Keri dumps her commitment phobic boyfriend and heads alone to the family cabin owned by her boss Angela. There she meets Angela’s cousin Joshua who came to mourn the death of his mentor and friend. A decade ago they shared an incredible day together before he left her after the KISS. Poignant

In Cahoots With Cupid. Kaleidoscope Office Services owner Angela has always tried to insure others were happy as she did with Keri and Joshua. She failed to take care of her herself when she fell hard for younger Kiowa, but walked away. They meet at a wedding where he plans to raise her Fever..A winning tale

Behind Amethyst Eyes. For years Aimee hides her crush on accountant Rob. When her father dies, she has a slim chance to make it with the family accountant. Sweet.

Jordana's Chair. Dex is used to dating glamour, but is attracted to the total opposite of his prototype Jordana. Realistic

Paper Tiger. Single father Widower Billy and his son love Veronica as they have for years, but she rejects his proposals until he learns why when her past comes to haunt them. Entertaining

Cabin Fever. Single mom Shayna struggles to overcome the lack of interest her ex has with their son. Teacher Widower Dakota reaches out to mother and child. Hearwarming.

The Longest Night. Model Jolie and photographer Jag married but bliss failed to come with it as she wanted to stay home to raise a family and he wanted to see the world. Two years apart, she has given up on him and love, but he has not. Enthralling

The first five entries of were in various Jewels of the Quill anthologies; the last two have not been previously released. Each contemporary romance contains fully developed lead couples as Karen Wiesner displays her talent with this strong first time together collection of the Kaleidoscope tales.

Harriet Klausner

Black Magic-Cherry Adair

2010-07-10T11:34:00.000-07:00

Black Magic
Cherry Adair
Pocket, Jul 20 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439153819

In Western Australia wizard-geologist Jackson Slater is doing field work. His former fiancée wizard Sara Temple is in San Cristobel, Venezuela working on a luxurious hotel deal when the illness struck turning good well balanced people into homicidal psychopaths. When her mentor whom she considers her father since her parents died becomes ill, a panicked Sara instinctively shouts telepathically to the only man she ever loved for help. Jack still loves Sara and hears her cry and teleports to her side instantly as if he is one of Pavlov’s dogs.

Based on the mounting evidence, the Wizard Council fears the serpentine Omnivatics are siphoning off the life-force and power of wizards. They also believe the pairing of Jack and Sara is the only hope to prevent the malevolence from returning to take over the world in their evil way. The chosen duo believes they are a poor matching, but agree to work together to save the world; perhaps as a by-product they can save their relationship too.

This is an exhilarating second chance romantic urban fantasy in which the paranormal elements of wizardry and the Omnivatics seem genuine. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing of two people in love, but with polar opposite beliefs when it comes to magic as she never moved pass the death of her parents so she stopped being a practitioner; they are not a yin and yang fit, but together in unity prove that in their case their love makes for an inequality as 1 + 1 > 2. Like she did with her Night T-FLAC trilogy, Cherry Adair provides an engaging thriller starring two wizards in love; this time trying to save the world.

Harriet Klausner

Devil’s Highlander-Veronica Wolff

2010-07-09T10:09:00.006-07:00

Devil’s Highlander
Veronica Wolff
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425236277

In 1660 Scotland following the defeat of the Scots, the MacAlpin clan returns home to Dunnottar. A war hero, Cormac MacAlpin remains traumatized though thirteen years have passed since his brother Aiden was abducted while the pair were playing in Aberdeen. His best friend Marjorie Keith was with the brothers when the tragedy occurred and has since become an angel to the impoverished youth of the city.

When another child is snatched from the city’s streets, Marjorie begs Cormac the reclusive fisherman to save the kid. However, he remains immobile by shame and self-pity. She refuses to accept inertia from her beloved. Instead she keeps pressuring him to join her on an investigation into who is kidnapping children off the streets of Aberdeen or she will go it alone.

This is a wonderful seventeenth century Highlander romance starring a tormented reluctant hero who blames himself for what happened to his twin though he could do nothing to prevent the kidnapping and the angel who demands he save the latest victim. The story line is at its best when the focus is on 1660; the plot slightly decelerates when it centers on the lead couple’s traumatized look back to the tragic event of 1647 though that adds enormous realism as the snatching of Aiden made Cormac and Marjorie what they are as adults. Fans will appreciate Veronica Wolfe’s latest Highlander romance wondering what became of Aiden.

Harriet Klausner

Devil’s Highlander-Veronica Wolff

2010-07-09T10:09:00.005-07:00

Devil’s Highlander-Veronica Wolff

2010-07-09T10:09:00.004-07:00

Damsel in Disguise-Susan Gee Heino,

2010-07-09T10:09:00.003-07:00

Damsel in Disguise
Susan Gee Heino
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN 9780425235980

Actress Julia St. Clement was Lord Anthony Rastmoor’s mistress until he lost her gambling with his nasty cousin Cedric Fitzgelder. Outraged to be a stake in a game of chance and fearing the despicable Cedric, Julia flees disguised as Mr. Alexander Clemmons learning to eat soup through a moustache

Julia continues to travel as a male, but accompanied by a “wife” Sophie, learns that Cedric plans to kill Anthony. Still garbed as a male, she warns her former lover who recognizes her in spite of her clothing, wife and mustache. As they begin a second tryst with her seen as his male companion in public, they begin to fall in love again, but she no longer trusts her heart or him with her heart. Meanwhile the duet begins to investigate the secrets of their families espically after her wife mysteriously vanishes.

This enjoyable Regency romance is a fun Comedy of Errors as Julia keeps up her masquerade to fool the foul odious Fitzgelder. Although her starting a second time with someone who gambled her away displays inanity, love or inane love depending on your perspective, readers will relish the courageous Mr. Clemmons as a Damsel in Disguise.

Harriet Klausner

Seduction Wears Sapphires-Renee Bernard

2010-07-09T10:09:00.001-07:00

Seduction Wears Sapphires
Renee Bernard
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235966

In 1859 Ashe Blackwell lives a hedonistic lifestyle since his return from India. However, his grandmother makes him a wager he cannot avoid. She demands Ashe behave with decorum for an entire season or lose his inheritance. There is one additional stipulation Ashe especially loathes as he feels he can act properly in accordance with the inane rules of the Ton. Grandma insists prim and proper Bostonian Caroline Townsend will serve as his chaperone.

They are enemies even before they meet; their initial encounter is hate at first sight. Caroline hopes to earn enough money to open up a school for women while also secretly dreams of a grand adventure in the boudoir of a rake. Ashe just wants the prickly colonist to go back to Massachusetts. His schemes to send her across the pond fail as everyone seems to love Caroline. However, the sleepwalking Caroline charms Ashe who wants to make love to her. As they fall in love, his former resentful mistress, his avaricious relative and his time in India threaten to send his American back home single and ruined.

The latest Jaded Gentlemen Series (see Revenge Wears Rubies) is a wonderful gender war Victorian romance starring two enemy combatants who come out swinging from the first bell. The story line is fast-paced fun as Caroline and Ashe detest one another while also wanting one another. Sub-genre fans will enjoy waltzing with this “not so charming” couple.

Harriet Klausner

Burning Up-Virginia Kantra, Nalini Singh, Angela Knight, Meljean Brook

2010-07-09T10:08:00.001-07:00

Burning Up
Virginia Kantra, Nalini Singh, Angela Knight, Meljean Brook
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235959

“Whisper of Sin” by Nalini Singh. In 2072 San Francisco, leopard shifter Emmett and his pack rescue Ria Wembley from a rapist. She is under their protection while they fight an evil destroying their beloved city. Emmett knows Ria is his soul mate.

“Blood and Roses” by Angela Knight. With justification Ameris has no choice but to seduce an abomination (in her mind) vampire knight Raniero. However, as she becomes acquainted with him, she changes her opinion of his race

“Shifting Sea” by Virginia Kantra. In 1853, Major John Harris inherits an estate in Scotland and much more, the love of Morwenna, one of the Children of the Sea.

“Here There be Monsters” by Meljean Brook. Ivy flees Mad Eben Machen who chases after her. When he catches her, she will find the heart of the monster.

The four romantic fantasies are entertaining tales starring fully developed protagonists in terrific settings as each author contributes a world building winner.

Harriet Klausner

Nauti And Wild- Lora Leigh and Jaci Burton

2010-07-09T10:06:00.003-07:00

Nauti And Wild
Lora Leigh and Jaci Burton
Heat, Aug 3 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234426

“Nauti Kisses” by Lora Leigh. Rogue’s brother John Calvin Walker, Jr. has moved to Lake Cumberland, Kentucky. However, as he seeks a peaceful lifestyle after all his escapades he misses his beloved Sierra, who he has known from her birth and is almost family. When she is attacked by a stalker in Boston, John’s father, who is also Sierra’s godfather, asks his son to keep her safe. Sierra makes it clear she is irate with John for leaving her.

“Riding the Edge” by Jaci Burton. In Vegas federal agent Rick Benetti is assigned to keep Ava Vargas safe while escorting her to her father, a senator. He also investigates Ava’s involvement with his former gang. Ava has a rescue mission of her own; to save her best friend since childhood Lacey from self destruction with Rick’s cousin, Bo

The latest Nauti Kentucky bad boy (Nauti Nights and Nauti Dreams) and Riding Bad Boy (see Riding on Instinct and Riding Temptation) romantic suspense thrillers are exciting novellas with kick butt lead females who are perfect matches to their hunks. Fans of both series will enjoy this collection.

Harriet Klausner

Tempting Fire-Sydney Croft

2010-07-09T10:06:00.002-07:00

Tempting Fire
Sydney Croft
Bantam, Jul 27 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780385342285

In the Brazilian rainforest, a force massacres a highly regarded elite Navy SEALs unit. Cryptozoologist experts insist the Chupacabra predator cannot exist in spite of the shocking evidence that they agree speaks otherwise especially with the only survivor Chance McCormack insisting so.

Agency for Covert Rare Operatives (ACRO) sends field agents Sela Kahne who brings expertise on the mythic logical Chupacabra and Marlena West to investigate. Sela has another skill of being able to read the mind of her partner while they make love. She needs to do so with Chance, but is attracted to the man who saved the SEAL and leads their expedition Logan Mills; at the same time Chance and Marlena pair up. Meanwhile vicious Phoebe of ITOR also wants the Chupacabra.

The latest ACRO paranormal romantic suspense thriller (see Riding the Storm, Seduced by the Storm and Taming the Fire) is a strong tale with a legendary beastly spin. The lead foursome makes the rumble in the jungle seem genuine as they chase after the Chupacabra; a creature they hope does not exist while also falling in love. Series fans will appreciate the latest confrontation with ITOR over the Chupacabra.

Harriet Klausner

Water Bound-Christine Feehan

2010-07-09T10:06:00.001-07:00

Water Bound
Christine Feehan
Jove, Jul 27 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780515148244

In Sea Haven, Rikki Sitmore dives for sea urchins. However, her attention radically changes when she notices a man in trouble in the swirling currents. Rikki rescues severely injured Lev Prakenskii. Besides his physical traumas, Lev suffers from situational amnesia, but is well aware he must remain hidden as someone wants him dead.

Reluctantly Rikki takes Lev to the estate she and her five “sisters of the heart” call home. Like Lev, Rikki has issues as she cherishes the water and loathes the fire as a tragedy left its imprint on her. Each has deadly enemies coming for them, but together with two hearts beating as one, they can overcome anything even lethal predators and autism.

Returning to Sea Haven, home of the Drake Sisters, Christine Feehan begins a new saga as once again some paranormal is blended inside a mystery, which in turn is inside a powerful romance. Though somewhat similar in tone to the “parent” Drake Sisters’ series, the audience will relish this action-packed tale from the moment Rikki saves Lev from drowning and fans will enjoy this entertaining thriller. Ironically even with a strong love story between two traumatized souls and plenty of suspense, it is the deep look at what haunts the pair especially Rikki and the tragic fire that brings compassion to the tale.

Harriet Klausner

Bedeviled Angel-Annette Blair

2010-07-09T09:58:00.000-07:00

Bedeviled Angel
Annette Blair
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235973

Guardian angel Chance Godricson returns to earth (with a heavenly shove from his BFF Angus) out of concern for one of his clients, agoraphobic sufferer Queisha Saint-Denis whose life he saved eight years ago when he died in a mall collapse. The mortal faces difficult challenges as the Fitzgerald couple disappeared on a mountain climbing trip. Queisha is the legal guardian of their five years old twins Lace and Skye because they trust her to care for them as she had been their surrogate mother birthing them.

Works Like Magick employment agency owner Viveca assigns Chance to serve as the cook for Queisha and the children. He also serves as guardian to the frightened twins. Queisha struggles to provide the twins with what they need. Chance has problems too as he sheds his feathers whenever his thoughts stray to Queisha, adheres to the awkward angelic honesty tenet regardless, and hardest of all tries to remain detached.

The second Works Like Magick urban romantic fantasy (see Naked Dragon) is a terrific tale with plenty of humor especially as Chance struggles with unacceptable thoughts and dreams, and the heavenly dictate of complete honesty. The twins enhance the story line though perhaps they are too precocious while Angus is more an impish messenger than a guardian angel. With a strong lead couple and a taut look at an agoraphobic battling her neurosis to raise young children, Annette Blair provides a strong heavenly sent thriller.

Harriet Klausner

The Secret Eleanor-Cecelia Holland

2010-07-08T10:29:00.004-07:00

The Secret Eleanor
Cecelia Holland
Berkley, Aug 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234501

By 1151, the Duchess of Aquitaine is perhaps the most powerful female on the continent even before she marries elderly French King Louis VII. However, being the Queen of France fails to live up to the title as expected by Eleanor. In fact she is treated with scorn and feels she has lost some of influence rather than see it expand as she anticipated.

When he son of the Duke of Anjou Henry visits the royal court, Eleanor feels the younger man is her male counterpart especially since he has a strong chance of becoming the King of England. Although her husband has her constantly watched, Eleanor and Henry secretly meet and plot for her to dissolve her marriage to Louis and wed Henry.

Although Eleanor has been the star of biographical fiction (see The Captive Queen by Alison Weir, The Courts of Love by Jean Plaidy, and Eleanor The Queen by Nora Lofts) numerous times, Cecilia Holland provides a strong tale that focuses on her motivations. Although the key historical events are not new to sub-genre fans, readers will enjoy the latest Eleanor of Aquitaine fictionalized account as Ms. Holland affirms the two-time Queen set the stage for powerful females who follow her lead over the centuries

Harriet Klausner

Awakened By A Kiss-Lila DiPasqua

2010-07-08T10:29:00.003-07:00

Awakened By A Kiss
Lila DiPasqua
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425235560

“Sleeping Beau”. French Marquis Adrien d’Aspe is awakened by a kiss. He spends the best night of his life with his rescuer, which his being a rake says a lot. However, she vanishes. For the next few years he searches for his beloved until he finds his Catherine.

“Little Red Writing”. Assigned by the king, ambitious French Count Nicolas de Savignac believes if he uncovers the identity of the popular infamous political satirist Little Red he will receive an award and a promotion. That is until he meets the outlaw writer Anne de Vignon as he prefers to incarcerate her in his bed.

“Bewitching in Boots”. The French king’s illegitimate daughter Elisabeth de Roussel has her choice of almost any man at court. However, the only male she covets Tristan de Tiersonnier rejects her. She mounts a campaign to get the injured former King’s Guard commander into her bed permanently.

These are three enjoyable erotic romantic rewrites of classic fairy tales. The stories are fun with their adult makeover though none of the cast is very deep. Readers will enjoy Lila DiPasqua’s sexual twist turning children’s tales into heated adult romances.

Harriet Klausner

All I Ever Wanted-Kristan Higgins

2010-07-08T10:29:00.001-07:00

All I Ever Wanted
Kristan Higgins
Harlequin HQN, Jul 27 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373774586

In Georgebury, Vermont Callie Grey knows she loves her boss, Mark Rousseau, who dumped her. She dreams he will realize she is his one too until he shatters her dreams breaking her hart when he announces on her thirtieth birthday he is engaged, but not to her.

Callie’s mother throws her a birthday party at the family run Misinski’s funeral home. Embarrassed by her mom’s kindness and her family’s advice to ignore the butthead, Callie decides to wake up her unrequited beloved by dating someone else to make him jealous. Shy veterinarian Dr. Ian MacFarland prefers animals to people especially after his former wife toasted him. However, he likes Callie, who lives life to fullest; she thinks he is pathetic, but decides he will do to achieve her mission. As they fall in love, he fears commitment so Callie who has revised the mission has a tough assignment, but she has Bowie to serve as her matchmaking canine.

This is an amusing contemporary romance starring two wonderful likable lead protagonists, a charming setting (even the funeral home), and a strong support cast. Fans will enjoy Callie’s strategy to provide the vet with a personality make-over though sitting on his lap while he sits on a rocker makes her think he is perfect. Fans will enjoy this entertaining lighthearted frolic due to the eccentric cast (canine and human) who bring out the fun in this charmer.

Harriet Klausner

Body Master-C.J. Barry

2010-07-08T10:28:00.003-07:00

Body Master
C.J. Barry
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425234556

Secret government agent Seneca Thomas of Extraterrestrial Criminal Enforcement Locality (XCEL), New York City Division, provides a needed innate skill as she can identify the alien shapeshifters who live amidst mankind. The aliens were stranded on earth when their spaceship crashed two years ago in the Badlands. They use homo sapiens DNA to appear as human.

Seneca’s partner Riley is killed in the line of duty while hunting for “Jack” a serial killing shifter. Wanting revenge, Seneca is outraged when XCEL leadership assigns her Max Dempsey as her new partner; Max is a dreaded shifter who offered his services to find the rogue killer. He conceals his personal agenda of killing the psychopath who murdered his wife and exposed their race to potential disaster even perhaps genocide. Worse he detests his attraction to his acrimonious human partner. Both are stunned with what they find.

In some ways mindful of Alien Nation, the opening XCEL science fiction romantic police procedural is a terrific manhunt (make that ET hunt) thriller. The story line is fast-paced with the shifters intermingled with New Yorkers coming across as genuine. With the two lead investigators forging a star-crossed relationship while going after Jack, but discovering so much more, readers will relish C.J. Barry’s entertaining tale.

Harriet Klausner

Heart Journey-Robin D. Owens

2010-07-08T10:28:00.001-07:00

Heart Journey
Robin D. Owens
Berkley, Aug 3 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234549

In the year 407 since the colonization, highly regarded cartographer Helena Del D’Elcampane and her FoxFam Shunuk prefers the remoteness of traveling the unmapped sector of Celta. However, recently Del senses her HeartMate is near. She rushes back to civilization to meet him, but also learned of the horror of that happened to her Family, except for an infant, dying in an inferno.

Her only living relative cousin Dookee has been adopted by Straif Blackthorn and his HeartMate Mitchella (see Heart Choice). Grieving her loss although not close to her Family, Del is taken back to learn her HeartMate is actor Raz Cherry (support role in Heart Fate and Heart Change), who has expected his HeartMate to come to him as the Oracle informed him and he sensed her arrival. She had doubts re a HeartMate, but he embellishes her hesitation as he is more interested in his acting career than a lifetime commitment; until a serial thief keeps stealing from them as if he or she seeks something specific, but nether know what.

The latest Celta romantic fantasy HeartMate stars two total opposites sharing in common one thing; reservation about what a permanent relationship would do to their respective vocation. Saga fans will enjoy their vacillation as that refreshes the story line as much as the mystery. With the return of some of the stars from the previous thrillers, the audience will relish the expanding Owens universe as her newest entry is told with the usual plenty of heart.

Harriet Klausner

Siren's Call-Devyn Quinn

2010-07-07T11:12:00.001-07:00

Siren's Call
Devyn Quinn
Signet, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451230935

Kenneth Randall was so filled with grief from the murder of his wife, the shocked man wandered into the ocean and nearly drowned. A woman saved his life leaving him on the beach supposedly with no memory of her saving his life.

Ten months since the good Samaritan rescued him, Ken returns to Point Rock Harbor on barrier island Little Mer, Maine to thank his angel and to put to rest his recurring dream of a sea nymph saving him. Little Mer Island lighthouse keeper Tessa Lonike is unhappy with the arrival of the man she pulled out of the sea almost a year ago. He should not have remembered her or what happened to him on that day. However, her sister Gwen is euphoric when the visitor offers to repair things. As Ken and Tessa become acquainted he figures out her deep watery secret and becomes protective when her former fiancé archeologist Jake Massey arrives claiming he has information on the heritage of the sisters.

The Dark Tides oceanic romantic fantasy is a fun tale starring a thorny acerbic shapeshifter who learns where good intentions lead and the obstinate man she rescued from the icy sea. The story line is fast-paced, but the villain is a caricature with no redeeming quality rather than a real adversary. Still readers will enjoy this entertaining tale due to the relationship between the lead couple.

Harriet Klausner

Kiss of the Rose-Kate Pearce

2010-07-07T11:11:00.003-07:00

Kiss of the Rose
Kate Pearce
Signet, Aug 3 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451230942

In 1485 the Druids and King Henry Tudor made a pact in which the priests are to eradicate the vampire race while he becomes ruler of England and Wales. In 1529 at the Richmond Palace, home of the court of King Henry VIII, there have been a series of murders; the victims drained of all their blood. Obviously a serial killing vampire or multitude of the undead is making the palace unsafe for humans.

The Druids assign born vampire hunter Rosalind Llewellyn to kill the predator. However, before she can find the hidden beast, she must deal with vampire protector Sir Christopher Ellis the Druid slayer. Attracted to one another, both are stunned when their superiors order them to cooperate in finding and destroying a rogue. Neither is prepared to be soul mates fulfilling an ancient prophecy if they truly team up and if they survive the deadly mission.

The first Tudor Vampire Chronicles is a wonderful historical romantic fantasy. The mystery and the history take a back seat to the paranormal and the romance so that the background to a vampiric King Henry VIII castle never fully comes to fruition. Still this is an exciting early fifteenth century star-crossed lovers' thriller as the immovable vampire hunter meets the irresistible Druid slayer.

Harriet Klausner

Whisper Kiss-Deborah Cooke

2010-07-07T11:11:00.001-07:00

Whisper Kiss
Deborah Cooke
Signet, Aug 3 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451230928

In New York City tattoo artist Rox is a Good Samaritan who tries to help those going through hard times. Her “projects” include her former roommate, Pyr Thorolf, who moved out to work with Niall Talbot.

Rox does not trust Niall so she confronts him. Neither anticipated the inferno “firestorm” their first encounter causes. Niall is stunned by Rox’s not blinking at meeting a dragon while she is stunned by her attraction to him. Neither have time nor the emotional desire for even a kiss as he tries to remain focused on his obsession, the destruction of Shadow Dragons. However he and the other Pyr remain fixated on their eradication mission so they keep their eye on the wrong ball as a new more deadly threat arises.

This is a terrific Kiss urban romantic fantasy (see Winter Kiss and Kiss of Fate) as the lead couple may be firestorm perfect mates in heat, but neither has the time or inclination to place their heart and soul in the inferno they spontaneously combusted at first sight. Both have issues, but still team up on a perilous trek in which one mistake means death. The author has Cooked another winner with the tattoo artist and the dragon shapeshifter.

Harriet Klausner

Sureblood-Susan Grant

2010-07-07T11:10:00.001-07:00

Sureblood
Susan Grant
HQN, Aug 1 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373774661

The pirate clans live in the Channels asteroid belt. They earn a substandard existence by raiding passing ships containing precious minerals needed for the intergalactic war fought in another sector. However, the clans have their own combat going on as instead of cooperating for the overall good of everyone, they fight with one another.

A new clan leader Dake Sureblood is a visionary who can see how teamwork would benefit everyone, but is blank as to how to proceed when no one trusts anyone from another clan; even he distrusts the other broods. Two clans the Surebloods and the Blues raid the same vessels. Dake saves the life of Valeeya Blue. Her grateful father Conn invites Dake and his kin to join forces with his clan. Already attracted to Val, Dake readily agrees. However, betrayal by opportunists causes the two clans to bicker and consider hostile actions against one another rather than teaming with Dake left in hell for five years after someone assassinated Conn. However, that traitor never counted on Dake returning to prove his innocence and claim his wife and their son as his though he knows she believes he killed her father.

This is a fun sort of Scottish Highlanders in outer space futuristic romantic science fiction romance. The story line is fast-paced from the opening raid and never slows down as betrayal and murder keep the lead couple apart. Readers will relish the swashbuckling escapades of Dake and Valeeya as he returns to avenge his father-in-law and himself while desperately wanting his spouse at his side and to finally meet their son.

Harriet Klausner

Simon Says-Donna Kauffman

2010-07-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

Simon Says
Donna Kauffman
Harlequin Blaze, Aug 2010, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373795581

In Chicago night hotel manager Sophie Maplethorpe agrees to help her friend Delia out of trouble though if caught she will be fired. Delia spent the night with investment banker Daniel Templeton, a sex stamina star but she left her cell behind in his room; her fiancé hotel mogul (including Sophie’s) Adam Wingate calls every morning promptly at 7:00 so she better respond.

However, the Good Samaritan sneaks into the wrong room. Recovery specialist Simon Lassiter seeks a stolen emerald that he plans to purloin in order to return it to his client, the rightful owner. When he catches Sophie breaking into his room, he assumes she works for his adversary. However, he soon finds he needs her assistance to do the right thing. The problem is he cannot keep his hands to himself and she abets his roving hands with her own roving hands.

This is an amusing Wrong Bed contemporary romantic suspense that starts a bit slowly as the key players are introduced to one another, but once shifting into first gear never slows down as the lead couple takes the audience on a joy ride that Ferris Bueller would envy. Sophie learns the road to heaven is paved with good intentions though it takes her a while to understand that as her first encounter with Simon has him pointing a gun at her. Humorous, hot, and taut, readers will appreciate the escapades of the night manager and the recovery specialist as they fall in love.

Harriet Klausner

My Fake Fiancée-Nancy Warren

2010-07-06T12:28:00.003-07:00

My Fake Fiancée
Nancy Warren
Harlequin Blaze, Aug 2010, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373795574

In Philadelphia, at Kepler, Van Horne Insurance, Co., David Wolfe needs a fiancée to obtain a promotion to partner at the family run firm. However, he has none and the myriad of women he dates or has dated would never do. He needs someone fresh.

Chef Chelsea Hammond, a friend of David’s sister, needs a temporary place to crash to save expenses while starting a catering business. Though she is reluctant and hides her reason for doubt, they agree that she stays in his place in exchange she will pose as his fiancée with her added stipulation of “no contact”. However, they end up making love and she falls in love with her faked fiancé, but he admits he is commitment-phobic.

Although the premise of a fake fiancée or “Occasional Wife” has been used a zillion times, Nancy Warren magically makes it fresh with a strong cast especially the support players like his sister and his co-workers who bring out the best and worst in the lead couple. Fans will relish this wonderful contemporary romance as the slow learner realizes why he reaches in his bed for a female phantom who never slept through the night there and the woman who wisely knows why.

Harriet Klausner

Firefighter Daddy-Lee McKenzie

2010-07-06T12:28:00.001-07:00

Firefighter Daddy
Lee McKenzie
Harlequin American, Aug 2010, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373753208

Widower Mitch Donovan is a single dad who would do anything for his daughter Miranda as both cope with the tragic death of the woman in their lives. A dedicated San Francisco firefighter, Mitch has no plans for any other woman in his life besides his child and his mom Betsy Evans.

Schoolteacher Sonora “Rory” Pennington-Borland is known as “Miss Sunshine” by her students. Mitch’s daughter is in her class and Rory happens to be his mom’s tenant. They meet when his stuttering daughter introduces her daddy her hero to her class. Total opposites, Mitch and Rory are attracted to one another. However, she likes being a free spirit and is unsure she wants the responsibility of a child and he is unsure he can move on passed his wife’s death.

This is an enjoyable contemporary romance with a strong charming cast. Although the coincidence of his daughter’s teacher renting a room in his mom’s Victorian is doubtful, no one will care after the initial reaction. Lee McKenzie disaffirms Mark Twain’s comment: “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco as fans will feel the tenderness of different relational types of love by the matchmaking of the bread generations of their sandwiched beloved male with the teacher-renter.

Harriet Klausner

A Mom For Callie-Laura Bradford

2010-07-06T12:27:00.002-07:00

A Mom For Callie
Laura Bradford
Harlequin American, Aug 2010, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373753192

Widow author Betsy Anderson has not moved on since her husband Mark died eighteen months ago. Literally moved by a picture of Paxton Bridge in a bookstore calendar, she leaves Manhattan to see the real thing twelve hundred miles away. She knows her spontaneous act is certifiable as there are nicer views from New York City’s pedestrian bridges than this one in Cedar Creek, Illinois, but she felt compelled to go see this stone bridge, as if this simple inane act symbolized moving on.

At the bridge, Betsy meets Police Officer Kyle Brennan, a single father uninterested in any romantic relationships since his Callie’s mother Lila deserted her. At a bookstore in town, Betsy meets fan Angela Murphy whose husband Tom is Kyle’s partner. They discuss true love, which leads to Betsy staying in town to write her next book. As the author and the cop begin to see one another, her guilt over defiling her late spouse’s memory and his remorse over doing the wrong thing for his child Callie by dating threatens to end their relationship.

This is a wonderful contemporary romance starring a grieving widow who knows she loved Mark, but was not in true love with him and the cop who makes her tingle and sweat. The keys to the story line are Callie is not precocious or rabid and Laura Bradford’s ability to tell a Heartland romance without denigrating big cities or turning small towns into Eden. At times false impressions seem overly done, although one could argue the lead couple’s emotional baggage is the cause. Still the overarching theme that home is where the heart feels the contentment of being loved and loving back makes for a delightfully contented read..

Harriet Klausner

The Ghost and Miss Demure-Melanie Jackson

2010-07-06T12:27:00.001-07:00

The Ghost and Miss Demure
Melanie Jackson
Love Spell, Jul 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505528353

Restorer Karo Follett quit her previous position with a potato salad flourish that haunts her as she became a pariah though her cause was just. She struggles with finding a new position and finally scores work on a remote plantation, Belle Ange in Virginia. She immediately travels to her new job site before her employer might change their mind.

She arrives at her destination during a torrent. At the front gate, lightning hits her. Suddenly Karo sees an apparition having trysts like an eighteenth-century Marquis de Sade; Karo has met the original owner of Belle Ange, Hugh Vellacourt. Fearing she suffers from PTSD, Karo meets her British boss and is attracted to him but vows to adhere to her pledge not to mix work and pleasure. As she helps restore the mansion into a tourist attraction, she tries to ignore the ghosts and their sexual spirits as much as her desire for her employer.

The Ghost and Miss Demure is an enjoyable paranormal romance starring an outraged female who has become an ardent misogynist and the two males in her life who make her reconsider her vow of no men allowed. The background never quite settles on modern day restoration romance or ghostly interlude yet fans will enjoy the antics of “Miss Demure” and her unwanted mates. The ghost is very entertaining as his attitude is his French peer was a phony upstart who became a legend because vellacourtism is not as sexy as sadism; mindful of Robert Wuhl’s presentation in Assume the Position on Bissell vs. Revere. Karo’s triangle between the British hunk haunting her heart and the S&M spiritual expert advising her how to use her vagina makes for a lighthearted fun frolic.

Harriet Klausner

Renegade-Elaine Barbieri

2010-07-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

Renegade
Elaine Barbieri
Leisure, Jul 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843963656

In 1866 Samantha Rigg obsesses over her vendetta to avenge the murder of her father, a Pinkerton agent. She pleads with Alan Pinkerton to hire her, but he says no out of fear for her life as her attitude is dangerous and besides she lacks experience; he begs her to grieve but move on.

Refusing to end her avenger’s quest, Samantha travels to Texas to go after a deadly bank robber. She believes rancher Matt Stait is posing as a rancher to conceal he is a killer. Samantha obtains work as a saloon girl so she can go undercover seeking proof of her assertion. However, she never anticipated falling in love with the man she suspects is the cold blooded murderer of her dad; nor he would likewise expect to be attracted to her.

Renegade is an entertaining western romantic mystery due to the dangerous tango between the feisty intrepid woman obsessed with justice for her late dad and the “outlaw-rancher” she believes in spite of her seditious heart in her gut is his killer. That relationship irony makes for an enjoyable Americana romance as each distrusts love as much as they do the target of their deep affection.

Harriet Klausner

In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady-Gayle Callen

2010-04-12T09:12:00.004-07:00

In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady
Gayle Callen
Avon, May 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061783418

In 1846 London, everyone wonders who posed nude for artist Roger Eastland when he painted the Scandalous Lady portrait hanging in a gentleman’s club. Julian Delane has a personal interest in locating the model as she stole a gem from his family ten years ago leading to his father’s disgrace and death.

The Leland sisters, Rebecca and Susanna, and their cousin Elizabeth Cabot hope to keep their family from another disgraceful scandal that even having a duke to help would not stop the disaster. When Julian and his two friends Leo Wade and Peter Derby meet the three females, each claims to be the model. The three men bet they can prove who the real Scandalous Lady is. Julian believes Rebecca is the one and pursues her as brazenly wears his family’s gem in public.

The first tale of a Victorian romantic trilogy is a wonderful story starring two strong protagonists and a solid support cast. Fast-paced throughout, sub-genre fans will relish the battling to love antics of Rebecca and Julian; and look forward to how well Leo and Peter do when they go up against the formidable Susana and equally kick butt Elizabeth.

Harriet Klausner

Vampire Mistress-Joey Hill

2010-04-12T09:12:00.003-07:00

Vampire Mistress
Joey Hill
Berkley, May 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234181

Gideon killed the vampire who had just killed a human. However, he has no joy in the hunt or the slaying ever since his brother Jacob became a third mark servant giving up his soul to vampire Lady Elyssa. Filled with rage he goes to Club Atlantis a hangout for the BDSM crowd. He rejects a mocking, physical and psychological mistresses; each time destroying the room. Finally club manager Anwyn Naime decides to tame the beast personally.

Anwyn tells him to surrender to her as Daegan the vampire arrives to watch. She says to the hunter three women will strip and restrain him with straps. Gideon explodes and breaks furniture, but makes sure his mistress is safe. Anwyn orders him to keep her women safe while they strap him up. He obeys as they chain him and will play with him until he comes. When he says no more, she frees him. He knows she is the one, but goes berserk when he sees the vampire mark on her. She tells him to leave and hopes he gets what he wants, death. As he leaves, three visitors led by Barnabas demand to see Daegan informing Anwyn they have a message for the vampire. Gideon realizes what Barnabas meant. He finds Anwyn in the alley raped and bitten by Barnabas; she will need her sire’s blood or go insane. Daegan takes her inside and gives orders but allows Gideon to come because Anwyn asked for him.

This is a heated paranormal romance with a strong lead triangle deftly handled as a key plot element. The threat of the heroine to suicide is fascinating yet repetitive as she struggles with the unwanted change. Readers will enjoy Joey Hill’s entertaining urban fantasy erotica with pleasing BDSM scenes starring three lead characters refreshingly different especially having a dominatrix becoming a vampiress.

Harriet Klausner

Impulsive-Cathryn Fox

2010-04-12T09:12:00.001-07:00

Impulsive
Cathryn Fox
Heat, May 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780451229960

Sunray accompanied by other shapeshifters wanting to be free wolves moves from her Alpha and the pack in Serene, New Hampshire to Chicago. They settle near where she was viciously assaulted and changed while her lover Ray was murdered one hundred years ago.

Ray has returned having been reincarnated as Kane. When they meet, Sunray knows he is her soulmate. However she also realizes they cannot be united as fate proves cruel since he is a lycan hunter who thrives on killing her kind. Still they team up to end the deadly spree of a rogue shifter, but though he wants her, he cannot get pass the concept that she a member of a species his Instinctive impulsiveness loathes.

The latest Eternal Pleasure shapeshifter romance is a terrific reincarnation second chance at love erotic thriller. The lead couple is a creative pairing as they have a tragic history and apparently an even more tragic future once the case is over. Filled with suspense, readers will appreciate the dangerous Chicago joy ride between Sunray and Kane as love seems not enough to prevent the hunter stalking the she-Lycan.

Harriet Klausner

Hers For The Evening-Jasmine Haynes

2010-04-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hers For The Evening
Jasmine Haynes
Heat, May 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234174

"Three's a Crowd." Her best friend Devon hires Robyn the courtesan in order to bring life back into the marriage of Courtney and Seth.

"The Stand-In." Meanwhile Devon has dreamed of sex with her co-worker Hunter for years, but until now had no idea there ain't nothing like the real thing.

"Surrender to Me." Simon wants Haley so he sends her an e-mail telling her that she belongs to him so she needs to surrender her heart and body.

The three tales, somewhat linked through Courtesans, are fun erotic novellas although the plots are somewhat thin. Still entertaining and heated, fans will enjoy the sexual escapades between the clients and the Courtesans (see Yours for the Night).

Harriet Klausner

Blood Born-Linda Howard and Linda Jones

2010-04-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

Blood Born
Linda Howard and Linda Jones
Ballantine, Apr 27 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780345520760

In Los Angeles Chloe Fallon keeps having an odd dream in which a warrior from somewhere not of this earth apparently seeks her out. What she is unaware of is her recurring dream is a real contact from another dimension as she is a conduit channel able to bring the warrior of her blood to Earth.

Vampire Council warrior Luca Ambrus is the rarest of his species being the offspring of two vampires, which gives him the unique skill that no human and few vampires remember him. His friend Hector warns him that a rogue vampire is killing conduits and a council member is assassinated; so he has been transmitting to Chloe in her dreams. When he saves her life, he is stunned because she not just remembers him she knows he is the star of her dreams. As he keeps her safe and they fall in love, Luca discovers an insidious plot to overthrown the Council and to use humans as expendable food.

Blood Born is an exciting romantic urban fantasy starring two strong lead characters and a deep support cast who not only enhance the story line, but in several cases look like they could lead to future paranormal romantic thrillers. Although dreams as a first meeting conduit has been used before, the sub-genre audience will enjoy biting into the two Linda’s fast-paced tale.

Harriet Klausner

Sing-Lisa Bergren

2010-04-10T11:10:00.003-07:00

Sing
Lisa Bergren
David C. Cook, Apr 28 2010, $14.99
ISBN: 9781434767073

After leaving her sister Odessa and new brother-in-law Bryce to Breathe together, in 1886 Moira St. Clair is stunned to learn her manager Max Foster has been embezzling her funds. She is near broke and Paris is not a cheap city for an American singer to live in. Heartbroken and distrustful, Moira heads home to Colorado while two men display interest in her on her journey.

Back in Colorado, Odessa and Bryce struggle to make a success of their horse ranch. However, the fierce winter is taken its toll on their livestock with many of their horses dying.

The third St. Clair sibling Dominic is known for his fierce brawling. With one sister married and the other in France singing, he goes to fulfill his dream of seeing the world, but instead has been taken captive on a ship with little hope of escape.

The second Homeward Trilogy (see Breathe) is a superb historical tale that continues to follow the adventures of the three St Clair siblings who have gone their separate ways after traveling together to Colorado due to Odessa’s consumption. The story line contains three obvious subplots with eventually the sister’s tales intertwining. Although lacking the intensity of Breathe, Sing is a strong late nineteenth century tale as each sibling’s saga is exhilarating while bringing alive the era.

Harriet Klausner

Wicked Becomes You-Meredith Duran

2010-04-10T11:10:00.001-07:00

Wicked Becomes You
Meredith Duran
Pocket, Apr 27 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9781416593126

In 1890 Gwen Maudsley has everything going for her except a husband. Wealthy, she is a nice person and very pretty; yet she has been jilted on two occasions by gentlemen. She has decided being sweet does not work amongst the males of the Ton.

Gwen chooses her late brother Richard's best friend Alexander Ramsey to teach her how to be sinfully wicked. Alex has known Gwen all his life and has loved her from afar. However, he also believes he is unworthy of her. Reluctantly, he agrees though he fears once they start he will not be able to let go of the woman he loves who deserves better than someone like him. They cross the Channel to Paris and beyond, but his past and their attraction collide.

This is an entertaining late Victorian romance starring two people who share the tragic death of her brother four years earlier and a feeling that they are undeserving of love. Although the plot is thin, readers will root for the lead couple as each must face their own demons if they want to embrace their love for one another.

Harriet Klausner

Venus Guy Trap-Shannon McKelden

2010-01-29T10:49:00.000-08:00

Venus Guy Trap
Shannon McKelden
Forge, Feb 2 2010, $13.99
ISBN: 9780765323354

Venus “Aphrodite” Cronus may be the Goddess of Love and daughter of Zeus, but she is slaving on earth as a matchmaker. In Bander, Oregon she finds a sigma in a bookstore window that is her target for a love life makeover. Her name is Haydee Miller, whose parents she matched over three decades ago.

Haydee has been going out lately with losers and fears she will fail at the next step on her list; getting married at thirty-three. The list is sacred to her as it gave her comfort when her mom died when she was sixteen. Any deviation has been disastrous. She has six weeks plus to find her mate.

Venus introduces herself and for some unknown reason Haydee hires her and allows her to move into her home. Venus insists she is the Goddess of Love. Two days later Venus says Prince Charming is entering the store. Haydee has a convulsion as anyone but Derek Reed is acceptable. He deserted her to become a world famous photographer. Haydee tells Venus she stinks at matchmaking. They met soon after her mom died and he blew a knee ending his football ambition; they became an entry until he left abruptly. Haydee asks Derek why he is back. He says he missed her. Venus knows her mission is more than matching soulmates with a history; as she also needs to reconcile father and daughter while eluding men who want her and women jealous with Venus Envy.

The cast is extremely well drawn, Aphrodite owns the show as the matchmaker Goddess of Love insists the one man the lead female hates is her true love while she also deals with every male wanting her at a time she wants to go home. The rotation of lead between Venus and Haydee provides a wider perspective to this fun lighthearted urban romantic fantasy.

Harriet Klausner

Emerald Embrace-Shannon Drake

2010-01-03T11:06:00.003-08:00

Emerald Embrace
Shannon Drake
Medallion, Feb 1 2010, $7.95
ISBN: 9781605420820

In 1865, upon learning of the death of her friend Mary, Lady Creeghan, Martise St. James travels from war torn Virginia to Scotland on a mission. She plans to investigate Mary’s death and search for the St. James emerald that she sent to her late friend for safekeeping while the Civil War had marauders from both sides stealing from civilians.

To obtain entrance to Castle Creeghan in the Highlands, she informs the widower Lord Bruce Creeghan that she is Mary's sister. Although she believes her host killed his wife, Martise finds she desires him. As she investigates the castle’s secrets, Martise learns that most inside the keep believe murder occurred and the laird is the suspect. Although they fall in love in between arguments, he vows never again will someone he cares for be a victim while she fears being victim number two.

With engaging illustrations by Yevgeniya Yeretskaya that enhance the strong gothic plot, fans will enjoy this entertaining historical romantic suspense. The lead couple is a terrific pairing of a brave amateur sleuth and the prime suspect as she tries serendipitously to investigate the murder and the missing emerald while he tries to keep her safe. With a strong support cast, readers will relish this solid Victorian era romantic whodunit romance.

Harriet Klausner

Moon Craving-Lucy Monroe

2010-01-03T11:06:00.001-08:00

Moon Craving
Lucy Monroe
Berkley, Feb 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425233047

The Romans called them Picts, but the Chrechte realized they had to adapt or become extinct as the human race multiplied much more rapidly. They became Highlander clan leaders, but were betrayed by the Scottish king. Their survivors took control of Celtic clans but these shapeshifters hide their animal nature from the humans they lead.

Scottish King David arranges a new bride for clan leader Tulorc, who rejected the last English one, Emily Hamilton. Tulorc agrees, but insists the marriage occurs in Scotland. When Tulorc and his fiancée Abigail meet she hides her deafness from him. She assumes once he learns she is imperfect he will send her to her beloved sister Emily. They exchange vows Chrechte style, but Tulorc says they will make love when they reach clan land. When they make love, he hides his wolf from her while she conceals her deafness. They make love again and he is shocked as he hears Abigail shout his name in mindspeak; she hears him too. He knows she is his true mate but when he learns of her affliction, he angrily howls betrayal like his stepmother did while his fiercest supporters insist Abigail is a warrior hiding her weakness.

The historical werewolf spin that is the underlying premise of the Children of the Moon saga is cleverly designed so that the readers will believe in the Chrechte. The return of the lead characters from Moon Awakening in critical support roles is a welcome addition, but the tale belongs to a strong heroine who as Barr the warrior says compensates for her deafness like a great soldier should. Although the lack of a strong villain limits the tension to hiding secrets between the lead couple, fans will enjoy this fine medieval romantic fantasy.

Harriet Klausner

Red Wolf-Linda Thomas-Sundstrom

2010-01-02T12:40:00.003-08:00

Red Wolf
Linda Thomas-Sundstrom
Silhouette Nocturne, Feb 2010, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618286

In Miami Tory McKidd stalks the park where her brother Mark’s body was found six months ago as she obsessively seeks to bring justice to his murderer; were-style. Night after night she impatiently waits while dreaming of torturing the culprit like her sibling received from a rogue shifter, but no clue surfaces though she knows a werewolf pack is near.

Miami Police Detective Adam Scott investigates the park homicide and is following leads to the culprit. When he meets the amateur sleuth sister of the victim, they are instantly attracted to one another as she knows he is her mate. However, she also realizes the killer of her brother targets her soulmate for death.

This is an action-packed romantic urban fantasy in which from the onset, when Tory stalks Miami while Adam wonders who the mystery woman is and why she walks with purpose at night in dangerous areas, grips the reader to know whodunit. Fast-paced with an engaging lead couple though the plot is a bit thin, fans will enjoy this pleasant paranormal police procedural.

Harriet Klausner

The Hellhound King-Lori Devoti

2010-01-02T12:40:00.001-08:00

The Hellhound King
Lori Devoti
Silhouette Nocturne, Feb 2010, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618293

Half-elf, half-witch Marina Adal does not want to return to her home realm Alfheim because she knows her uncle will take away her freedom and besides in Gunngar everyone hates her including Amma the witch she freed from a needle trap who now resides trapped inside her. She assumes even her former lover loathes her though she believes he betrayed her. Thus the Fairy princess works as a chambermaid while concealing her background.

However her former lover Raf Dolg the hellhound arrives to take her back to her uncle. The Svartalfar dark elves also want to capture the princess. In Alfheim, Raf tries to keep her safe, uncover who wants her dead and why, and who murdered his family.

This is an exhilarating romantic fantasy that grips the audience from the opening scene when Raf arrives to collect his bounty on the treacherous elf who he believes deceived him. The cast is solid and intrigue re the throne is superb especially with a terrific ironic twist. Lori Devoti provides a strong “fairy” tale in which love may not be enough to even keep the hellhound and the elf alive.

Harriet Klausner

Some Like It Kilted-Allie MacKay

2010-01-02T12:39:00.001-08:00

Some Like It Kilted
Allie MacKay
Signet, Feb 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9780451228932

MacNeil’s Folly is a medieval castle that was moved one stone at a time from Scotland to New Hope, Pennsylvania. Accompanying the relocation from the Isle of Barra are irate family ghosts who want MacNeil’s Tower back in the Hebrides and not as some fool of a descendant’s placing it in America.

Mindy Menlove lives in this mausoleum, which explains why thermal underwear is a big seller in Scotland. She plans to sell the castle that she inherited from her late cheating fiancé over the objection of her sister. However, Mindy fears she is losing her mind when ghosts appear extorting her to return the castle to Scotland; except one the MacNeil Chieftain, Bran of Barra, who warns her to stay away from his homeland. Instead Mindy travels to Barra only to find enchantment and love with Bran who reciprocates, but also knows time will never heal their seven century displacement.

This is a fun romantic ghost story in which the spirits live a spirited lifestyle. The cast makes the tale entertaining as the ghosts play matchmakers as does her sibling. Bran knows she is his eternal love, but accepts nothing on earth can bring them together forever. Mindy wants nothing to do with cold Scottish islands until she arrives to find her heart warming and toes curling. Fans will enjoy this fun frolic as the ghost and the mortal find love in their mausoleum.

Harriet Klausner

Angel’s Peak-Robyn Carr

2009-12-31T15:02:00.001-08:00

Angel’s Peak
Robyn Carr
Mira, Jan 26 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778327615

U-2 pilot stationed at Beale Air Force Base, Sean Riordan remains in Virgin River after being the best man at his brother Luke’s wedding (see Temptation Ridge) as he has six weeks of lose or lose leave to kill. He stops at a restaurant’s bar for a drink when four women enter the establishment. One of them is flight nurse Franci Duncan who four year ago demanded they go to the next level in their relationship or end it; he reacted by telling her not to let the door slam into her butt. She left and vanished from Luke AFB in Phoenix; he went on to Beale regretting what he lost.

Sean demands Franci explain why she left so abruptly after they split up. She wants him to leave her alone though she still loves him. However, he is stunned when she explains he is the father of little Rosie who she has raised as a single mom. He wants in his daughter’s life, but Franci distrusts Sean and wonders if he is mature enough to have the staying power to be a part of his son’s life. Sean knows he has a second chance to rectify his biggest mistake as he wants both of his females in his life permanently.

Once readers accept the opening coincidence that the lovers when they were in Arizona meet by chance in remote Northern California, fans will enjoy the story line is emotionally driven by a strong cast. Sean is terrific as he regrets what he blew and is appreciative that he has a second chance. Franci on the other hand does not want to give him one. Well written, Robyn Carr provides a delightful Virgin River entry as she overcomes an overused trite premise of a dad unaware of siring a precious child with a super cast especially the lead couple who make for a fine tale.

Harriet Klausner

Power Play-Nancy Warren

2009-11-02T10:37:00.001-08:00

Power Play
Nancy Warren
Harlequin Blaze, Nov 2009, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373795062

Regretting saying yes to being a bridesmaid at Cousin Leanne’s wedding, massage therapist Emily Saunders returns home to Elk Crossing, Idaho. She is staying at the Elk Crossing Lodge along with the ugliest dress in creation, pumpkin colored and shaped like it was grown in the field. Bed bugs attack her.

Cop Jonah Betts is in Elk Crossing for the over thirties Old Timers Hockey League tournament. He and his horde of players have left no rooms available for Emily and others forced out of theirs. Due to further incompetence, Emily and Jonah share a room. They are attracted to one another, but he promised her he would not make the first pass while they share a room; however if she makes that first pass, he will shoot for the hat trick with her. Instead she places him in the penalty box. Neither expected a Power Play by an unknown killer.

This is a super contemporary romance with hockey and homicide to round out the amusing comedy of errors. The story line is a fast-paced lighthearted frolic that readers will enjoy unless they recently purchased a bridesmaid dress. Readers will enjoy this fine Idaho caper especially the final resolution of what to do with Big Orange (except for fans in Syracuse or Denver) in a state rooting for blue as in the Boise State field.

Harriet Klausner

Untamed-Crystal Jordan

2009-11-02T10:36:00.003-08:00

Untamed
Crystal Jordan
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2009, $13.95
ISBN: 9780758238290

“Stolen Temptation”. The Great Third World War was fought with biological weapons that devastated much of the planet. To survive, humanity adjusted on a cellular level. In New Chicago, hybrid human-lynx, Delilah Chase is a jewel thief. However, her current robbery of a valuable ruby goes wrong when half-human-half-hawk Hunter Avery catches her. He offers her a Faustian deal of going to jail or spending a week in his bed.

“Deadly Temptation”. In New Chicago, Delilah’s human-mink shifter sister Lorelei Chase owns The Tail techno brothel that handles any fantasy a client might request. She refuses to sample what her employees offer or her customers want but her worker jaguar-shifter Nolan Angelo and Fed wolf-shifter Pierce Vaughn have her ready to break her golden rule.

These two interrelated erotic urban romantic fantasies are fun to read as the cast heats up the Windy City from the moment the Avery flies to his penthouse and never slow down until Lorelei brings out the shivers in her two mates. The novella format limits the background even with two entries; this especially makes it difficult for fans to understand the true differences between the diverse hybrids (to include the villain Tarak the viper who gets the short straw) besides the obvious physical beastly attributes. Still fans will relish Crystal Jordon’s erotic take on half breed shapeshifters.

Harriet Klausner

Sexual Secrets-Melissa MacNeal

2009-11-02T10:36:00.001-08:00

Sexual Secrets
Melissa MacNeal
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2009, $13.95
ISBN: 9780758234490

In 1898 wealthy Englishman Rutledge Bentley finds the identical twin beauties Colette and Camille on the streets of Paris. He brings them home with him to London where he marries Camille and his son Heath weds Colette.

Colette finds Heath quite the lover yet leaves her unfulfilled while Camille is left wanting by her much older spouse. As they did on the streets of Paris, Camille persuades her twin to switch places so each can taste some alternate lovemaking accompanied by the adrenalin rush of the swap. Now Camille and Colette know how to make and keep father and son coming. However, the siblings are caught with their respective garments down by a stranger who seems to intimately know both of them as he can tell them apart with one look or kiss.

Sexual Secrets is an intriguing late Victorian erotic romance that has double the fun, but also is a double edged blade as the family swapping is fascinating but never quite gels into a cohesive plot beyond the sexcapades. Older fans will keep thinking of the 1973 Yankees with the wife swapping of pitchers Mike Kekich and Fritz Peterson. Still this is an interesting premise that will have the audience wondering whom will end up in whose bed.

Harriet Klausner

Seduction Island-Lorie O'Clare

2009-11-02T10:35:00.003-08:00

Seduction Island
Lorie O'Clare
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2009, $13.95
ISBN: 9780758234483

His grandfather wants his heir Jordan Anton to embrace his affluence, but the youngster wants nothing to do with the idle wealthy as he loves managing his Aunt Penelope’s Big Sky ranch. To tempt him, his grandfather sends him to Seduction Island accompanied by Sicilian Princess Tory Alixandre so that he can taste what he is ignoring.

However, he feels like he has been sentenced to hard time in spite of the pristine sea and coral reef until Jordon meets and is attracted to event planner Amber Stone. She reciprocates but conceals two damning secrets from him. First her true social status and second her lack of experience. As she falls in love she owes him the truth, but fears he will end their relationship; beside which he has the lovely Tory to occupy him on the island paradise that to Jordan is an island prison.

This is an interesting romantic triangle although none of the participants garner empathy from the reader. Still fans will enjoy Jordan’s issues as he is expected to marry Tory who loathes being forced into a marriage, but he loves Amber who is on the island seeking a wealthy husband to bail out her bankrupt family. Fans will enjoy untangling the convoluted webs of marital deception.

Harriet Klausner

Men on Fire-Susan Lyons, Rachelle Chase, Jodi Lynn Copeland

2009-11-02T10:35:00.001-08:00

Men on Fire
Susan Lyons, Rachelle Chase, Jodi Lynn Copeland
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2009, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758238016

“Too Hot to Handle” by Susan Lyons. Jade Rousseau needs a fiancé to escort her to her company’s social events. She may have found her man when she outbids her friends for firefighter Quinn O’Malley at a benefit event.

“The Firefighter Wears Prada” by Rachelle Chase. Fashion designer Delta Ballantyne asks firefighter Evan Marshall to model her line of men’s underwear although she would not mind personally modeling him.

“Playing With Fire” by Jodi Lynn Copeland. Firefighter Lincoln Gabriel has helped Erica Donelson ever since her husband, his best friend, dumped her, but now wants more than friendship from her.

Though resolutions are too quick, these are three enjoyable erotic romances starring women who know how to bring the heat from the firefighters in their professional and personal lives.

Harriet Klausner

Shadows From the Past-Lindsay McKenna

2009-11-01T11:21:00.001-08:00

Shadows From the Past
Lindsay McKenna
Harlequin HQN, Dec 1 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373774074

Following the death of her mom in a Los Angeles earthquake, the baby Kamaria found alive in apartment rubble was adopted by Morgan and Laura Trayhern, who raised her as theirs with love in Montana. Everything was terrific, but the photojournalist always wanted to know more about her roots especially her patriarchal side. She has one clue as to who her biological father might be; three men in a photo with Morgan insisting Rudd Mason, owner of the Elkhorn Ranch in Wyoming, is her sire.

Kam learns Rudd is advertising for a caregiver to help his octogenarian mother, Iris. She applies and is hired. She easily becomes friends with the rancher and his mom, but his wife, Allison, and her younger half-siblings Zach and Regan loathe her. Worse she is attracted to ranch hand Wes Sheridan even as someone wants to insure the family estate remains as is and murder is a viable option.

This is an exciting ranch romantic suspense starring a likeable heroine. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Kam decides to uncover the identity of her biological dad with the help of her wonderful adopted father. Although the villain is too easily discarded, fans will enjoy the last Trayhern next generation tale (see Dangerous Prey and heart of the Storm) and hopefully persuade Lindsay McKenna to provide a futuristic follow up involving Zach and Regan.

Harriet Klausner

Bound by Dreams-

2009-11-01T11:20:00.001-08:00

Bound by Dreams
Christina Skye
Harlequin HQN, Dec 1 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373774067

Kiera Morrissey promised her dying mom she would return to Draycott Abbey, which she does, but hell literally breaks out when she sneaks on to the grounds of the estate. Two goons attack her, but she shocks them when she fights back. They are followed by the biggest canine she has ever seen. She manages to escape the human thugs mostly because of the wolf.

Calan MacKay awakens the next day knowing he was drugged but that he saved the female’s life. He has come back to Draycott Abbey because his friend Nicholas Draycott needs his help to keep his family safe during some political dealings. He wonders why Kiera apparently loathes the Draycott brood and whether she is the threat and why he believes she is the answer to controlling his curse, but allied as his enemy.

This is a super entry in the Draycott Scottish Highland fantasy as DNA haunts the lead couple. Like Calan, readers will want to know why Kiera hates all things and people Draycott while also wondering will she accept his other the wolf. Fans will enjoy this terrific suspense thriller as each is Bound by Dreams to each other, but is love enough to overcome their respective heritage especially with someone willing to answer with a lethal negative.

Harriet Klausner

Hot Spell-Michelle Rowen

2009-10-29T10:57:00.001-07:00

Hot Spell
Michelle Rowen
Harlequin Blaze, Nov 2009, $
ISBN: 9780373795079

Paranormal Assessment and Recovery Agency psychic Amanda LaGrange hates her skill as she believes her father deserted the family when she was a child because he loathed her abnormal ability. Empathic Jacob Caine only recently learned of his uncanny talent and relishes using it to help others.

They are attracted to one another, but her self-loathing leaves them with no chance to explore a relationship between two people with extraordinary skills as she sees it as a curse and he believes strongly both of them have a special gift. Although she prefers not to work with him because she knows she wants him but distrusts relationships as men leave, they unite to investigate an alleged haunted house. There they meet two ghosts who were lovers in life, but murdered and trapped by a curse until someone frees them.

This is a fascinating paranormal romance as the modern day couple become "cursed" so must resolve the mystery of the ghosts to free themselves. The story lien is entertaining although Amanda’s constant self deprecation after a while turns into a super whine. Still fans will believe in ghosts and the ghostbusters as Michelle Rowan enahcnts her fans with a Hot Spell.

Harriet Klausner

It Happened One Night-Lisa Dale

2009-10-29T10:56:00.002-07:00

It Happened One Night
Lisa Dale
Forever, Nov 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446406901

Lana Biel dreams of seeing the world, but is devoted to helping her married sister Karin run their wildflower farm. Karin dreams of having a family but so far has not conceived. Lana ponders over living in Burlington and realizes she is not living her dream, but that of Karins’; she wants out without hurting her sibling but has no way to do so.

Lana becomes pregnant, but has doubts about raising a child especially as a single mom; besides she fears an infant will nuke her plans to leave Vermont. She turns to her best Eli Ward for advice as she has already ruled out an abortion. However, Eli has his own issue as he wants to tell Lana he loves her, but fears his revelation could result in the end of their friendship.

This is a fascinating Vermont contemporary extended family drama that is wildflower refreshed by the two sisters, who are realistic especially with their self indulgent whines (somewhat overdone with no cheese) making both of them not particularly likable. They make the tale as ironically Eli is a likeable player, but seems underdeveloped. Not an easy read, It happened One Night is a deep look at what happens to people when dreams are not fulfilled and even when they are.

Harriet Klausner

Christmas Diamonds-Devon Vaughn Archer

2009-10-29T10:56:00.001-07:00

Christmas Diamonds
Devon Vaughn Archer
Harlequin Kimani, Nov 2009, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373861392

Her mother dumped her as a child on her grandmother who raised her with love. However, though beautiful and intelligent interior designer Paula Devine has a résumé of losers so has given up on a romantic relationship like that of her grandma whose husband proposed on Christmas.

Diamond jeweler Chase McCord misses his wife Rochelle who died two years ago. He hires Paula to redecorate a room in his home. However, before they meet formally, they encounter one another over cappuccinos in a cafe in Silver Moon, Washington which she, tired of trite males, rips his skin for staring at her. After he takes her down a peg or two, they meet formally in his office. As she works the renovation, they are attracted to one another, but he has doubts due to his feelings of deserting Rochelle and one of her ex boyfriends seems to have her on a string.

This is a fabulous holiday romance between a terrific female weary of the gender game and a wonderful somewhat fickle widower who is not afraid to exchange barbs. This pair makes a fine couple, but their respective pasts haunt them more than the ghosts visiting Scrooge. Readers will enjoy this fun tale as diamonds are a woman’s second best friend after the love of their life.

Harriet Klausner

Home For The Holidays- Sarah Mayberry

2009-10-28T11:46:00.003-07:00

Home For The Holidays
Sarah Mayberry
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2009, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715992

Two years ago his wife died in an accident that left Joe Lawson alone to raise his two children by himself. He decides to relocate them from Sydney to Melbourne so his mom can help him and her grandchildren thirteen year old Ben and tens year old Ruby though his daughter fears mom will not be able to find them if they leave their home.

His neighbor is mechanic Hannah Napier, whose fiancé dumped her after falling in love with her sister. Hannah is terrific with his kids while he fantasizes about her being with him. She is attracted to the family next door, but plans to leave Melbourne to follow her dreams. Christmas looks like it will be cold, as it has been since their mom died, to the Lawson family.

This is an engaging second chance at love Australian romance with a solid support cast and strong likable lead protagonists each with relationship demons. The two young children are terrific as they have doubts about the move and their father falling in love; Ruby will remind the audience of Abigail Breslin in No Reservations with her fear of losing her mom forever. While Hannah fears being dumped again, Joe is afraid of losing someone else he loves and the impact on his kids of his wanting to make Hannah their mom. Fans will enjoy this fine contemporary as the cast makes for an entertaining tale.

Harriet Klausner

A Conflict Of Interest-Anna Adams

2009-10-28T11:46:00.001-07:00

A Conflict Of Interest
Anna Adams
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2009, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373783434

Dr. Maria Keaton testifies against a teenage client Griff Butler accused of murder in court, but his lawyer accuses her of having an affair with his client. She is suspended over the accusation of sexual misconduct. Her peers kick her to the curb and her reputation torn to shreds as she is temporarily barred from practicing psychiatry.

Maria turns to Judge Jake Sloan, who was hearing the Butler case. He has doubts about her professionalism, but quickly turns around convinced she is innocent except for being a good citizen. As they begin to fall in love, he pulls back when he learns she was his daughter Leila’s shrink.

A Conflict of Interests is a great contemporary romance as Anna Adams looks deeply at psychological issues, court proceedings, and extended family. Her mom and sister, and his daughter as well as Griff enhance the relationship between the lead couples as he is a control freak and she is an independent freak; their underlying respective philosophies of life are total opposites. Fans will relish Ms. Adams strong tale with a fabulous twist to the Butler case.

Harriet Klausner

Alaskan Renegade-Kate Bridges

2009-10-28T11:45:00.001-07:00

Alaskan Renegade
Kate Bridges
Harlequin, Nov 1 2009, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373295685

In 1899 Victoria Windhaven provides nursing services to injured miners and others in the Skagway vicinity of the District of Alaska. Her work requires her trekking into some dangerous wilderness so a bodyguard is assigned to escort her.

Her current protector is Brant MacQuaid who jilted Victoria’s sister at the altar in St. Louis. He has been hired as her bodyguard and that of her associate medical student Cooper Sullivan as they tend to injured miners on Glitter Mountain. Victoria remains outraged with him and wishes someone else would escort her. He can feel the anger she emits at him, but refuses to allow anyone else replace him even the rival Philadelphian medical student as he needs her as his cover to capture a nasty felon besides being in love with her although keeping her safe comes first before the criminal and his desire.

This is another great Kate Bridges Alaskan Territory late nineteenth century police procedural romance. Fans will feel they are on Glitter Mountain assisting Kate and Cooper with the injured and observing the Mountie Brant as he gets his man (and more important his woman). Cooper is a strong likable support character who offers Victoria every quality trait she wants in a husband while Brant provides everything she detests in a spouse. Their spirited rivalry make for a fun historical.

Harriet Klausner

The Beauty of Surrender-Eden Bradley

2009-10-27T10:56:00.002-07:00

The Beauty of Surrender
Eden Bradley
Delta (Random House), Oct 27 2009, $15.00
ISBN: 9780553385588

“Serving the Master: Desmond and Ava”. In San Francisco submissive Ava Gregory seeks the trance state, but dominant Marina Marchant failed to get her Bottom to achieve that at the Pinnacle BDSM sex club. Marina introduces Ava to her Nawashi expert peer in the play of the Japanese Shibari erotic ropes Desmond Hale as her guru. They achieve more than just the ultimate in play as they fall in love. Although she overcomes her embarrassment of being a submissive that has limited her contact with her family in Seattle, he never overcame his need for control since his sister Nessie drowned when they were children. Love means ceding some control.

“Soothing the Beast: Marina and James”. Marina Meets James Cortez at a lecture she gives on Shibari erotic ropes techniques. He pleads with her to play him until he achieves the shadow place so he can get respite from his demons that haunt him after the horrors he seen as a reporter covering the ugliness of the world. She informs him she only plays with women, but his need persuades her though he is not a submissive by nature and prays with her on top will give him freedom from his nightmares. As they enjoy the bondage and more, their attraction turns to love, but she fears the emotion ever since her Nathan died from cancer four years ago.

These are two well written erotic romantic novellas that focus on the characters more than sex though there are several heated rope scenes. Fans of BDSM romances will relish both well written tales but also feel each one could have easily been novel length as Eden Bradley’s exploration of the relationships beyond just top-bottom play went deep and profound especially the fears of the dominants but the resolutions seem rushed for such profound tales.

Harriet Klausner

Lady Blue-Helen A. Rosburg

2009-10-27T10:56:00.001-07:00

Lady Blue
Helen A. Rosburg
Medallion, Nov 1 2009, $7.95
ISBN: 9781605420639

After living on a cattle ranch in America eighteen year old Harmony Simmons arrives in London following the death of her parent. She moves in with her grumpy older sister Agatha who loathes her energetic sibling’s lust for life.

The two sisters ride a coach that is robbed. Soon afterward Lord Farmington Anthony Allen arrives with a ring he insists he found. Harmony recognizes him when she stares into his eyes, but says nothing about his vocation. He thanks her by kidnapping her. Soon afterward he liberates her, but his efforts to court her as Lord Anthony is nearly impossible because Warden Agatha watches her younger sister like a hawk and distrusts the aristocrat who conceals something seemingly sinister.

This an enjoyable historical romance starring an intrepid caring heroine, a mysterious aristocratic highwayman besotted with her from their first ignominious meeting but unaware she knows his eyes anywhere from that first encounter, and her ogre older sister. The story line is fast-paced, filled with a whimsical mirth as Helen A. Rosburg tantalizes the audience and “Lady Blue” with her romantic felon while Agatha seethes and plots to rid them of Anthony Allen, lord or not.

Harriet Klausner

Wild Blue Under-Judi Fennell

2009-10-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

Wild Blue Under
Judi Fennell
Sourcebooks, Nov 1 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9781402224270

When his father steps down as High Councilman, Rod Tritone knows his duty is to replace him running the Kingdom of Mer. However, the ruling Council directs Rod that before he assumes the position he will marry the lost daughter of Mer. Although he does not want to marry anyone nor go on land, Rod understands his people’s needs come before his desires.

He is given legs so he can walk with the landlubbers as his queen is on the surface in ironically land locked Kansas selling ocean tchotchkes at Therese’s Treasure Trove. Valerie Dumere scoffs at Rod’s instance that she is a hybrid human-mermaid as she has never had a tail nor can she even swim. However, when someone tries to kill her, Val knows something is not right, but still scorns her rescuer’s insistence that he lives under the sea.

The second Tritone brother Mer urban-oceanic romantic fantasy (see In Over her Head) is a terrific tale of the tail from the moment Rod arrives at the store knowing this can’t be Atlantis. Fans will enjoy the amusing banter between the disbeliever and the Mer trying to convince her to dive into the ocean as his mate while a predator wants her dead. This is a fun fantasy with readers wondering whether Val will there’s no place like home when you are loved by the one you treasure.

Harriet Klausner

Darkness Unleashed-Alexandra Ivy

2009-10-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

Darkness Unleashed
Alexandra Ivy
Zebra, Nov 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420102970

After centuries of torture, vampire Jagr escaped, but now prefers being alone with his only companion being books. However, his superior amongst the Guardians of Eternity Chicago clan of warriors Anasso Styx assigns him a mission that Jagr would like to reject, but knows he cannot. He is to find and escort back to their haven recently discovered pureblood were-sisters of Styx's wife Darcy (see Darkness Everlasting).

Regan Garrett spent a seeming lifetime being tortured by a nasty imp. Whereas she wants to enact vengeance she knows she also does not want to ever beholden to a male. Worse Regan recognizes her wannabe rescuer is not just a soul she lusts over, but much more. Meanwhile other folks want the pureblood for their nefarious schemes, forcing two tortured souls to decide between a loving team up or two solo acts.

The latest Guardians of Eternity urban romantic fantasy stars two intriguing lead characters who have tasted the worst of the Darkness tale, but now face something even more horrific considering their respective pasts: love. Neither wants it nor welcomes it, but both cannot ignore it as each is used to being alone rather than have a mate, a sister or a friend. They make the tale as love devastates their hermit existence while a horde want the pureblood, but Jagr would die before he allows any of them to harm his soul mate.

Harriet Klausner

Shades of Midnight-Lara Adrian

2009-10-27T10:52:00.001-07:00

Shades of Midnight
Lara Adrian
Dell, Dec 29 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780440245261

In frozen Alaska, nineteen year old Teddy Toms returns to his family compound only to find everyone dead. A gigantic humanoid creature appears and kills him too.

Bush pilot Alexandra Maguire lands at the Toms compound to deliver supplies only to be greeted eerily by corpses with bite marks on them. She has seen these bite marks before when her mother and younger brother were murdered. Alex and her father tried to move on and get passes what the monsters did to her family by leaving Florida for Alaska. The pilot notices a gigantic footprint in the nearby snow, but says nothing to the authorities.

After seeing a clip of the carnage, the Order sends warrior vampire Breed Kade to investigate what appears to be a rogue in bloodlust. He has lived his entire life on his family’s Darkhaven estate to take care of his brother who has an uncontrolled violent streak. Kade thinks the predator is his brother Seth who has killed humans before, but he soon realizes that this massacre is the work of the Ancient other worlder who escaped captivity. Alex and Kade meet with each incredibly attracted to the other. She realizes as she falls in love there are good and evil Breed and her beloved must be the former as he risks his life for her. She leads him to a defunct mine where the evil Breed reside led by the malevolent grandson of the Ancient: Dragos.

The seventh Midnight Breed tale is a compelling action-packed thriller from the onset with the slaughter at the Toms compound. Both protagonists have demons to overcome as Kade fears he will turn out like Seth did and Alex fears loving a monster like the vampire in her nightmarish past. Lara Adrian provides her fans with a strong tundra romantic fantasy as the human and the vampire find love and death in the frozen wasteland.

Harriet Klausner

The Mane Squeeze-Shelly Laurenston

2009-10-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Mane Squeeze
Shelly Laurenston
Kensington Brava, Nov 1 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758231666

Philadelphia street smart Gwen O'Neill is a hybrid shapeshifter of the lion-tiger combo. Suburban Lachlin "Lock" McRyrie is a calm purebred bear who is almost seven feet of muscle. These two are from opposite walks of life, but opposites attract at least in this case.

Gwen rejects their obvious desire for one another as she prefers the single life and also acts as protector to her loved ones. Besides which being inner city, she feels the burb is not strong enough for her. However, Lock shows his inner strength when someone commits hate-crimes trying to hurt his loved one Gwen apparently for being a hybrid.

The latest Mane urban romantic fantasy (see The Mane Event and The Mane Attraction) is a fabulous entry in a wonderful series. The story line is fast paced from the first meeting when the ferocious female basically growls at the gentle giant to get out of her heart and never slows down especially going over a mountain. Character driven by the lead couple and a nasty racist, fans will enjoy this fine tale while wondering whether the couple should buy Venetian blinds.

Harriet Klausner

Instinctive-Cathryn Fox

2009-10-24T14:39:00.000-07:00

Instinctive
Cathryn Fox
NAL Heat, Oct 2009, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451227942

Jaclyn Vasenty knows in thirty five hours her true inner self will be dead. She no longer run the wild side of life having sex with Brian and Kane who make her want to forget the obligation she owes her adopted parents Ben and Marie Vasenty who rescued her from Chicago transit and foster care. She would do anything for the her parents so if she is to become head of her family’s company Vasenty Cosmetics as they want, she must change her image from bad girl to corporate exec starting by saving one of the failing stores in aptly named Serene, New Hampshire,.

However, her thought of boring serene rustication proves false when night falls on the gated community. The wild come out in the dark as all types of paranormal walk the streets. However, Jaclyn can indulge her Instinctive wild side impulse with shapeshifting panther Slyck as he takes her on runs to a nirvana she never tasted before. As her libido goes stratospheric with the troposphere next, the paranormals are having intra species issues and Kane arrives to claim her.

This erotic romantic fantasy heats up New Hampshire with a variety of sexual trysts including the incredible sexcapades between the panther and his “Impulsive” feral female, a ménage a trois and FF. However, the key to the torrid tale is the belief that the variety of paranormal species exists because the in-fighting seems genuine mirroring real life. Still it is the torrid sex scenes that will arouse sub-genre fans to want more Eternal Pleasure in the erotic realm of the Fox.

Harriet Klausner

Sweet Restraint-Beth Kery

2009-06-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Sweet Restraint
Beth Kery
Berkley, Jul 2009, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425227695

Thirteen years ago FBI Special Agent Shane Dominic fell in love with Laura Vasquez, but she married a Chicago cop Huey Mays instead. Their paths have not crossed until now; Shane has busted Huey. Soon after his arrest on international corruption charges Huey is found murdered.

Shane realizes Laura may be in danger from the same culprit who murdered Huey to insure silence and that same killer will not chance Laura knows something about her late husband’s operations. Shane abducts her in order to keep her safe and to learn what she actually knows so he can go after the lethal big shot. However, as they fall in love, he also knows she is his submissive, but she fears going back into a relationship with a dominant even if she loves him; as her late spouse crossed the line into abuse.

The story line starts off rather fast as Randall Moody warns Huey that Shane is coming for him; Huey knows his life is over, but regrets not killing Shane and his wife. The plot slows a bit in the middle as the lead couple turn away from the investigation to forge a BDSM relationship. Still SWEET RESTRAINT is a spanking fun police procedural erotic romantic suspense

Harriet Klausner

For the Earl's Pleasure-Ann Mallory

2009-06-20T10:56:00.002-07:00

For the Earl's Pleasure
Ann Mallory
Avon, Jul 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061579141

Abigail Smart and Valerian “Raine” Danford were best friends as children, but social status separated them as he is heir to a duchy and she is the daughter of a merchant. Besides her paranormal “gift” makes her more unacceptable even as a companion. Her family thinks she is crazy and at times they feel she needed special treatments. Whenever they caught her talking to herself, they sent her to institutions; no one believed she talked with ghosts as it was easier to accept she was insane.

After her latest release, Abigail meets Raine. They want each other, bur she believes he is a rake who would never accept her gift and he shows with his eyes he desires her, but knows she is unacceptable beyond a fling. When he is attacked and knocked out, Raine somehow communicates with Abigail. As he remains comatose for several days, they begin to fall in love. However, though he plans to ignore family obligations that insist he marry acceptable Celeste; Raine knows when he returns to the living, he must confront his enemies while pretending not to care for the woman he loves though that will hurt her in order to keep her safe.

This is a terrific paranormal historical romance starring a unique lead female and a more typical male. The story line is fast-paced from the onset as Raine agrees with Abigail’s family that she is bedlam material and accelerates as they fall in love on an astral plane. Fans will enjoy Anne Mallory’s engaging numinous Regency romantic suspense.

Harriet Klausner

Surrender to the Devil-Lorraine Heath

2009-06-20T10:56:00.001-07:00

Surrender to the Devil
Lorraine Heath
Avon, Jul 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061733994

She and her two friends Earl Lucien “Luke” Langdon (see IN BED WITH THE DEVIL) and club owner Jack Dodger (see BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND DESIRE) escaped London's mean streets and Feagan’s den of child thieves and urchin con artists. Whereas the guys have become accustomed to Polite Society, Frannie Darling (as she calls herself because of her earliest memory of Feagan calling her that) hates the Ton; she prefers the slums of the rookeries rescuing orphans. She earns a living as Jack's bookkeeper.

Earl Sterling Mabry meets and falls in love with Frannie. She is attracted to him too, but prefers to pick his pocket instead. Haughty especially when he wants something and he WANTS her, he pursues her with due diligence, but has no idea she reciprocates though she loathes the idea of loving an arrogant aristocrat. As they fall in love, they get in trouble with vile criminal elements that leave them fighting to survive, but Frannie assumes she caused the assaults somehow when Sterling conceals from his beloved he is the prime source of their danger.

The latest Oliver Twist twist is a fantastic entry in a clever well written saga that stars the latest adult version of one of Feagan’s child thieves and the Earl who loves his Frannie Darling. The cast once again makes this fast paced tale super fun to read as Loraine Heath provides another excellent Victorian romantic suspense that hooks audience from the moment Frannie out-arrogance the super conceited Earl.

Harriet Klausner

Four Dukes and a Devil- Cathy Maxwell, Elaine Fox, Jeaniene Frost, Sophia Nash and Tracy Anne Warren

2009-06-20T10:55:00.002-07:00

Four Dukes and a Devil
Cathy Maxwell, Elaine Fox, Jeaniene Frost, Sophia Nash and Tracy Anne Warren
Avon, Jul 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061787362

"The Irish Duke" by Cathy Maxwell. Having been jilted at the altar, Susan warns her younger friends to avoid rakes especially “The Irish Duke”, but when they meet neither can resist the lure of the wager.

"The Duke Who Came to Dinner" by Elaine Fox. On Cape Cod, Sam almost burns himself with his scalding coffee when he sees the naked woman on the bike. Humiliated Virginian Gray “Ghost” prays no one seen her. Sam pursues her with the help of his matchmaking roguish criminal canine.

"The Devil to Pay” by Jeaniene Frost. In DC Blake buys Crack hoping an overdose will kill him. However, thugs mug him but he kills them as the demon inside him insures he lives. Elise the vampire lives alone under a train station. When they meet they fall in love, but must remove the demon, which means the host dies.

"The Catch of the Century" by Sophia Nash. The new Duke John has become the latest catch among the Ton. He meets schoolmistress Victoria when his Coachman almost ran over her and her three young male students. He is attracted to her feistiness; he considers the teacher to be “The Catch of the Century”.

"Charmed by Her Smile" by Tracy Anne Warren. In 1809, Duke Quentin kisses India which leaves them both wanting more. However as she has problems especially with “Peter the Pest” he has doubts because he wants her to have more chances with life than a week of falling in love.

These are five terrific romances with four loosely connected by a lead duke while Jeaniene Frost’s entry is radically different as an urban fantasy. Still, fans will enjoy this fine collection as each contribution is well written starring solid lead characters. As a bonus, fans of Sophia Nash will recognize some of her protagonists from previous tales as support players.

Harriet Klausner

Don't Tempt Me-Loretta Chase

2009-06-20T10:55:00.001-07:00

Don't Tempt Me
Loretta Chase
Avon, Jul 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061632662

Twelve year old Zoe Lexham disappears while on a family trip to the Middle East. She spent years in a harem after her father foolishly took the family on a tour of the dangerous Eastern Mediterranean and was abducted in Egypt; there she learned to speak openly and honestly about sex. When she finds her way home in 1818, Zoe knows she has no prospects for marriage; being too old and worse ultra scandalous.

Lord Lucien de Grey may be a shallow rake, but as a Duke with money he can go anywhere in the Beau Monde and thus he could help his childhood friend become accepted by those in Polite Society. However, Lucien is attracted to Zoe and though she reciprocates, she fears his reaction to learning what happened to her years ago even as the danger that exiled her has returned to complete the job.

DON’T TEMPT ME is an enjoyable Regency romance starring two fascinating lead protagonists. The roguish Lucien learned never become deeply attached to anyone especially avoiding love and passion when his parents died when he was ten years old; he knows love hurts. Zoe realizes that scandal is her rightful name having spent years in a harem and learned (by osmosis) about sex; ironically the men want her because she is beautiful and assumed to be an expert in the boudoir, but has a secret that would stun any who ever found out though none except her beloved stand a chance. Fans will enjoy Lucien’s chase of Zoe whose reputation is to bolt into trouble.

Harriet Klausner

Intimate Seduction-Brenda Jackson

2009-06-19T10:18:00.002-07:00

Intimate Seduction
Brenda Jackson
Kimani, Jul 2009, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373861200

Princeton Professor Natalie Ford returns home to take over temporarily her injured Aunt Earline’s cleaning business in Charlotte. She finds the work tiring and actually falls asleep in the bed of one of her aunt’s clients, playboy businessman Donovan Steele. He is shocked by how beautiful Sleeping Beauty is.

Natalie is attracted to Donovan, but also believes men are frightened by an intelligent woman. Although she vowed never to hide her intelligence, she conceals her brains and her profession behind the image of a cleaning lady. As they fall in love, he begins to believe she is damaging a business deal of his; his distrusts grows when he learns what she actually does for a living.

The latest Steele Family romance (see IRREVERSIBLE FORCES, RISKY PLEASURES and BEYOND TEMPTATION) is a fabulous contemporary romance starring two fabulous protagonists who fall in love. However their relationship foundation is cracked because Natalie hid the truth as to who she is leading to suspicion by him that she is sabotaging his business as he knows something is not quite right. The audience will fully relish the latest Steele. Brenda Jackson is an incredible storyteller.

Harriet Klausner

Tamed by a Laird-Amanda Scott

2009-06-19T10:18:00.001-07:00

Tamed by a Laird
Amanda Scott
Forever, Jul 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446541374

In 1374 in Annandale, Scotland, her guardian Lord Dunwythie informs the Baroness of Easdale seventeen year old Janet, called Jennifer, that he will select a husband for her. Outraged as she believes he shouts nonsense that she no rights, except what he grants her, Jennifer decides a stranger would be a better choice; preferably one that does not stay. His selection Reid Douglas is not who the teen wants.

At her betrothal gala, after a drunken Reid pawed her, Jennifer enjoys a show of traveling minstrels and opts for a final fling before she is forced to say I do. Since her maid Peg's brother Bryan is a part of that performing troupe, Jennifer joins them. She surprises everyone with her singing skills and is joined on stage by Sir Hugh Douglas, her betrothed's older brother, who has hidden his identity while roaming with the minstrels. As they fall in love, they must trust each other with the truth while also preventing an odious scheme that will harm Scotland.

Once again, Amanda Scott provides her fans with a super Scottish medieval romance starring two terrific lead characters and a strong support cast who either bring out the essence of the era or the main players. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Dunwythie dispatches Sir Hugh to bring home the runaway Janet; only to fall in love while Reid was sleeping it off.

Harriet Klausner

Gotcha!- Christie Craig

2009-05-17T11:28:00.001-07:00

Gotcha!
Christie Craig
Love Spell, Jun 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780505527974

Macy Tucker knows men leave. First her grandfather died when she was five years old. Then her father deserted her and their family when she was twelve years old. Finally her spouse spent time with his secretary in bed so at twenty-five Macy made him leave. Instead of men she vows to focus on law school

However, the last male in her life, her younger brother Billy gets arrested and sent to prison, but escapes. He fears for the lives of his sister and his girlfriend. Police detective Jake Baldwin is on the case of bringing Billy in and keeping the two women in the young man’s life safe. He especially is attracted to the Papa’s Pizza delivery girl Macy; she reciprocates enjoying his overbearing protective manner though also fearing once the case ends he will leave.

This amusing police procedural romance engages the audience with a strong cast especially rhe eccentric support characters and an enjoyable lighthearted mystery. Macy is the glue that holds the tale together as she worries about her brother who is the latest male to go missing. Jake has his own woes, starting with keeping his favorite pizza delivery person safe and persuading her he won’t leave. With this entertaining frolic Christi Craig will have GOTCHA!

Harriet Klausner

To Ruin the Duke-Debra Mullins

2009-05-17T11:27:00.002-07:00

To Ruin the Duke
Debra Mullins
Avon, Jun 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061577857

Miranda Fontaine finds the aristocracy useless though she is one of them; albeit from the wrong side of the sheets as her mom was a famous actress. Her opinion of the Ton is further affirmed when her best friend Lettie dies holding her hand while giving birth to the illegitimate son of Lord Wylde. Miranda promises her dead friend she will force Duke Thornton Matherston to claim the newborn James as his.

Thornton has begun hearing rumors of his scandalous behavior as an out of control Wylde who is a womanizing, drinking, and gambling rogue. When Miranda confronts him with his son, he denies siring any offspring. She believes his insistence as evidence mounts someone is impersonating him. They begin to investigate, but as they fall in love, the truth instead of setting them free leaves them in peril.

This entertaining historical romance focuses on identity theft as someone steals the Duke of Wyldehaven’s name and destroys his reputation while seemingly having a grand old time. The story line is fast-paced once the heroine challenges the Wylde Duke and never slows down until a final confrontation. Fans will enjoy Debra Mullins delightful nineteenth century romance that showcases the twenty-first century concept of identity theft is not confined to modern day society.

Harriet Klausner

Led Astray By A Rake-Sara Bennett

2009-05-17T11:27:00.001-07:00

Led Astray By A Rake
Sara Bennett
Avon, Jun 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061336911

In 1837 recent Miss Debenham’s Finishing School graduate Miss Lucille Monteith knows she must marry a respectable suitor, but the only man she desires is the unacceptable Lord Dominic “Wicked Nic” Lacey, who proposed to her when she was ten. Olivia swears the scandalous Wicked Nic hides his caring soul from the world, but admits to herself that she may be biased by her feelings and her childhood memories of a kindhearted friend.

Dominic conceals a horrific secret that if revealed would destroy him because his Livy would hate him; thus he avoids her as the Wicked Nic. Still as servants matchmake the pair in that subtle manipulation those under the stairs can do, they fall in love, but each risks their respective heart, she her family’s wrath if he stays true to form and he his soul if he reveals what he knows and must tell her.

The first Husband Hunters Club is a terrific early Victorian romance starring a wonderful young lady and a male rake with incredible layers of depth that only his beloved and his caring servant seem to see underneath his façade. In many ways on surface the lead couple steps out of the nineteenth century romance prototype, but deep Dominic with his secret provides the freshness to a strong opening act. Fans will not be led astray by an author with Sara Bennett’s talent that shines through in this fine historical.

Harriet Klausner

Sisters & Husbands-Connie Briscoe

2009-05-16T09:45:00.001-07:00

Sisters & Husbands
Connie Briscoe
Grand Central, Jun 2009, $24.99
ISBN: 9780446534895

In Baltimore Beverly is now thirty-nine years old and been engaged twice before, but broke it off each time. Now she prays three is the lucky charm as she and Julian plan to marry in four weeks. Her two older married sisters and her best friend believe he is the one who will exchange I do with Beverly as he is perfect and they are obviously in love.

However, the commitment phobic Beverly receives three shockers that makes her reconsider marriage. Her two forty something siblings are having marital problems with the oldest Evelyn considers divorce after pretending her spouse is perfect and Charmaine has had enough; both have kids. Her best friend is having an affair with her brother-in-law. Beverly once again doubts marriage as vows mean nothing even to people she respected like her extended family and her former BFF.

A decade in literary terms (fifteen years in real life) has passed since Beverly was a sort of schizoid mix of wanting to marry but somewhat fearful of commitment (see SISTERS AND LOVERS) though her two sisters had husbands and children. The cast is solid as each has personal issues while Beverly holds the story line together with her scrutiny of what is unraveling around her. Although not quite as intense as one would expect from a family drama that looks into marital woes, Connie Briscoe provides a wonderful sequel that her fans will enjoy catching up with Beverly.

Harriet Klausner

April & Oliver-Tess Callahan

2009-05-16T09:44:00.003-07:00

April & Oliver
Tess Callahan
Grand Central, Jun 3 2009, $23.99
ISBN: 9780446540599

In Maine her teenage brother Buddy died in a car accident driving April’s vehicle. Despondent and blaming herself for Buddy’s death April cannot move on. Her childhood friend Oliver heard of Buddy’s death and though he has not seen either sibling he is worried about April so he seeks her out to offer sympathy and solace. He finds her crying hysterically at Bobby’s grave.

Oliver is attending law school and though engaged to someone else, he is attracted to his buddy. April feels the same, which adds to her already overwhelming feelings of guilt. April prefers rough bad boys not kind caring men like Oliver. He, in turn, has his future planned as a married lawyer. Yet the attraction between the reflective responsible Oliver and the reckless rash April cannot be ignored.

The relationship between April & Oliver changes subtly throughout this enjoyable contemporary romance yet as the attraction increases, readers remain doubtful whether this pair of opposites can find common ground yet seem fated to be together. In death as he did when they were kids, Buddy reunites the lead couple. Tess Callahan provides a profound intelligent drama that argues love is not enough so April & Oliver ponder to be or not to be together and if to be, how will their teaming truly work beyond the dysfunctional?

Harriet Klausner

A Little Light Magic-Joy Nash

2009-05-16T09:44:00.001-07:00

A Little Light Magic
Joy Nash
Leisure, Jun 2009, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505526939

Victoria “Tori” Morgan has been alone for a long time; her parents are dead and recently Great-Aunt Millie Whitaker passed away. She has no one so it did not take much of a decision to move to the house she inherited from her late Great Aunt on the Jersey shore. Her plan is to convert the dilapidated “pachyderm”, at least the front, into a new age shop selling tarot cards, candles and crystals, etc. She hires contractor Nick Santangelo to renovate the edifice to state code.

Tori believes that Nick agreed to take on her job due to a magician Cajun candle given to her by a witch. Nick has enough flakes in his household without dealing with another one though he is attracted to her. His teenage daughter insists she is in forever love; his Nonna is a shoplifter; his brother works for him though they differ on the meaning of work as he wants to be a starving actor living off his brother until he gets his break; mom has menopause issues that make her a walking time bomb. Finally there is Tori who wants him to sire her baby, but does not want him.

The magic of this joyful romance is the changes in the lead couple. Initially Tori comes across as an eccentric flake with no concept of business or relationships while Nick appears as a nasty know it all; as they become acquainted with A LIGHT LITTLE MAGIC called love, they seem to blossom. Although the plot is thin, fans will enjoy this fine character driven tale as the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

Harriet Klausner

McAlistair's Fortune-Alissa Johnson

2009-05-16T09:43:00.001-07:00

McAlistair's Fortune
Alissa Johnson
Leisure, Jun 2009, $ 6.99
ISBN: 9780843962512

Miss Evie Cole knows eavesdropping is unladylike behavior, but relishes listening in to other people’s conversations anyway. However, she has overheard a discussion between her guardians that gives her the shivers; they plan to find her a spouse. Evie has vowed to never get married so she must find away to disrupt the scheme.

Her guardians take an alleged threat to her seriously by hiring former government assassin James McAlistair as Evie's bodyguard. However, she knows he is a ploy as there is no threat to her. Still she never forgot his kiss from ages ago and would not mind more from him. When the fake threat turns real with incidents made to look like accidents, James vows to keep his beloved safe; Evie feels safe with her beloved protecting her.

The follow-up to the amusing Regency romances (see AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT and TEMPTING FATE) is once again a fun frolic although with a different twist to the woman in peril saga. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing as both sing the refrain "I’m Not in Love", but cannot resist the lure of the other. Talented Alissa Johnson provides her fans with a great historical filled with jocularity and suspense.

Harriet Klausner

Night Shadow-Cherry Adair

2008-11-07T10:35:00.002-08:00

Night Shadow
Cherry Adair
Ballantine, Dec 2008, $23.00
ISBN: 9780345499738

Besides their employment as Terrorist Force Logistical Assault Command (T-FLAC) operatives Lexi and Alex Stone have only on thing else they share, their identical surname. Alex is an experienced operative who rarely comes in from the cold; Lexi the human works data like a wizard in the office.

The T-FLAC leaders fear super field agent Alex the wizard has joined the enemy as there is proof of his staging terrorist events. They want to confirm their suspicion but know a field pro would be outed rather easily by Alex; they send Lexi who never leaves the office to investigate under the guise of assisting him. If she finds proof she must kill him. Alex is irate with his new partner who obviously has never stepped out of the office controlled climate into the field tundra. He has no time to protect Lexi, as something chilling is occurring around the globe. However she proves useful as her data analysis skills begin to uncover a pattern of terrorist strikes .His foster brothers Lucas Fox (see NIGHT SECRETS) and Simon Blackthorne (see NIGHT FALL) try to help the stunned couple deal with an international threat.

The final T-FLAC romantic suspense espionage urban fantasy is a super thriller that teleports readers around the globe as Lexi and Alex struggle with doppelgangers and love; with the latter being more dangerous. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as once again Cherry Adair makes her realm seem genuine, but also adds self spoofing humor with the names of her lead couple. The return of the T-FLAC heroes from the previous paranormal spy novels enhance a strong finale that will have fans clamoring for more tales in the Adair environs.
Harriet Klausner

Phantom's Touch- Julie Leto

2008-11-07T10:35:00.001-08:00

Phantom's Touch
Julie Leto
Signet, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0451224906

Action movie star Lauren Cole wants to be taken seriously as an actress, but is contractually trapped to perform one more thriller as Athena for her ex-husband Ross. She is especially angry with her former spouse because he refused to give her an antique sword he purchased in Germany for her. Lauren steals the weapon.

As Lauren practices with the ancient sword, she liberates warrior Aiden Forsyth from his entrapment inside the weapon. However to his disappointment he is not totally free of the curse that first incarcerated him in 1747 when he tried to rescue his sister from gypsy abduction; he remains a phantom during the day but a human able touch others at night. Neither is prepared for unknown adversaries to covet her sword and attempt to murder those in possession of it.

The second Phantom urban romantic fantasy (see PHANTOM PLEASURES) is an engaging tale in which Hollywood collides with real magic. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action as Lauren tries to prove her skills on the silver screen are genuine in real life. Readers will relish Julie Leto’s outstanding touch; especially with a bewildered Aiden. He struggles with understanding a world that makes no sense as he has seen moving pictures of Lauren in action performing incredible feats of daring do that he could never do; yet though competent she is nowhere near that super level of expertise. This is a exhilarating paranormal thriller starring a strong lead couple and a diabolically vile villain.

Harriet Klausner.

0n The Prowl-Karen MacInerney

2008-11-07T10:34:00.002-08:00

0n The Prowl
Karen MacInerney
Ballantine, Nov 25 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780345496263

After her recent escapades with weres and proving her mom a witch was not a killer (see HOWLING THE MOON) Austin werewolf Sophie Garou plans on keeping a low profile like she used to have before her recent problems. She especially prays the powerful Houston pack ignores her solo existence in the midst of them.

Instead, the pack leadership demands Sophie come to them or else. She has no choice if she wants things to remain positive with her boyfriend Heath and at her accounting firm Withers and Young where she made partner. The Houston pack is outraged by her living inside their territory as strays are normally unacceptable, but what makes her worse in their lupine eyes is that the half-breed has been inside their turf under the werewolf radar screen for a few decades. To make amends and calm their fears of a rogue, she agrees to spy on the San Antonio pack, but quickly realizes she is not a good undercover agent and her new accounting client Southeast Airlines CEO Mark Sydney seems to be sniffing around her an awful lot making her wonder if he is ON THE PROWL with her his target.

The second Garou Texas werewolf tale is a terrific follow-up to a strong opener due to the heroine’s actions and reactions as she no longer can hide under the radar scope. Sophie cannot understand how her world has crumbled so fast. However she is strong perhaps because she is the offspring of a witch and a werewolf; so faces her issues with courage albeit reluctant bravery as she would rather hide. Fans will appreciate her howling adventures that give biting meaning to the modern day wild west.

Harriet Klausner

Words Alone-Autumn Dawn

2008-11-07T10:34:00.001-08:00

Words Alone
Autumn Dawn
Love Spell, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780505528018

Working as a translator for the Galactic Explorers has not been fun in what should have been an uplifting experience for Lieutenant Xera Harris-d. Her captain is a boorish self-conceited macho idiot and the company he represents cares only about the bottom line. Thus she is not shocked when her vessel and that of the Scorpio race get entangled in hostilities with both crash-landing on a nearby hostile planet.

Shockingly Scorpio, Commander Ryven warns the enemy crew of the dangers and offers to escort them to safety. As the sole woman amidst testosterone-thinking thugs on both sides, Xera expects to be a victim. She especially believes her side starting with her captain is the group to fear the most from so she stays close to the Scorpio hunk as he is probably the only safe situation. When another Scorpio ship rescues everyone, Xera knows she is a POW, but her heart captured by Ryven frightens her the most.

NO WORDS ALONE is an exciting science fiction romance driven by the strong cast on both sides of the conflict. The Galactic Explorer’s crew led by the captain is cutthroat coming across as pirates in space while the Scorpio are more disciplined as a professional military unit. The Romeo and Juliet love story in outer space is well written as the audience sees the first hand cultural divides and taboos inside of the superb Autumn Dawning of a new “universe”.

Harriet Klausner

Unlaced-Jaci Burton, Jasmine Haynes, Joey W. Hill and Denise Rossetti

2008-11-06T10:55:00.001-08:00

Unlaced
Jaci Burton, Jasmine Haynes, Joey W. Hill and Denise Rossetti
Berkley, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780425223819

“The Ties That Bind" by Jaci Burton. Divorced fifteen years ago but still in love, Lisa and Rick would not mind a second chance together.

"Undone" by Jasmine Haynes. Margo feels undone after meeting Dirk, but shocked when she learns what his vocation is.

"Controlled Response" by Joey W. Hill. Due to meeting Lucas, Cassandra knows she no longer needs to hide her deepest ardent emotions; as she can finally let it all hang out.

"Rubies and Black Velvet" by Denise Rossetti. To win the heart of Meg, John must destroy an evil sorceress’ corset.

Tongue in cheek, or perhaps corset in cheek is more apropos as that sexy garb connects these four erotic well written heated romances as the heroes understand their assignments starts with unlacing.

Harriet Klausner

What a Pirate Desires-Michelle Beattie

2008-11-06T10:32:00.001-08:00

What a Pirate Desires
Michelle Beattie
Berkley, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224939

In 1661 one thing drives Samantha Fine; vengeance against vicious Captain Dervish for what he did five years ago in the Caribbean. He is the reason she became pirate Captain Sam Steele, whose loyal crew know her gender but none will gossip about this factoid because they successfully raid merchant and pirate vessels. They are so good Captain Sam is the most feared person on the sea.

The only person besides her crew to know Sam’s gender is incarcerated Luke Bradley, a former member of Dervish’s cruel crew. Sam rescues Luke demanding he will lead her to Dervish. As they become acquainted with one another while arguing they fall in love, but both agree that destroying Dervish whom they each loathes comes before any future plans beyond that.

This terrific seventeenth century High Seas pirate romance works because Samantha comes across as an avenging sea-she pirate captain. Her verbal battles with Luke are amusing with word play sharper than sword play. Fans will enjoy this fine at sea cat and mouse tale while wondering whether it will be Sam, Samantha, or neither to survive the expected combat with Dervish.

Harriet Klausner