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This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceMy Review

Summary


Lady Emma de Leon was sent to the King's court. Emma being the daughter of a traitor, despite her lineage, is viewed by the court as practically a traitor herself. She is despised and not welcomed by hardly any. Her most recent goal is getting her younger sisters case looked at and seeing if she can be freed from the convent and returned home. While attempting to get an audience with the King, she meets a mercenary for the King, Darian of Bruges. The King's brother accuses Darian of murder, that was previously condoned by the King since the man killed was an enemy. However, Darian was innocent of the charges and would have been hanged but then Emma steps forward. Emma knew that Darian was innocent, and she knew that he would be in her future. So by claiming they were 'together' she ends up being married to Darian by the King's command. Darian and Emma are then sent to a country estate. Emma and Darian plan on an annulment, but when circumstances force them to work together by traveling back to London and then to the convent, they soon discover desire and a love they will have to fight for.

The Hero


Darian of Bruges, is Finnish and has become a mercenary, but it has been a matter of survival. Darian's family was murdered and he had to pick up the pieces that were left and make a fresh start. He was trained and reared by his close friend William. Darian, even though, he is a mercenary only kill when absolutely necessary and only the person is evil and needs to be killed. He follows orders and is content with his life. Until he is betrayed by one of the mercenary band he runs with. Now he is shocked that a stranger, a woman of high rank is protecting him. Even though he resents being forced to marry, he also realizes it was the only way. Darian is a hero that is rough around the edges, but soft as a teddy bear. I grew to really admire his strength of will and his fighting spirit. He never gives up on his investigation to find the real murderer. He is true to his word and has affection for a certain wolf dog...Rose. I love how passionate he is at times, loyal and driven.

The Heroine


Our heroine of the story, is Lady Emma, the middle of the Leon sisters. Emma has a powerful birthright. Her parents were both of noble blood, and her ancestry could be traced back to King Arthur. But because of her fathers 'betrayal' her whole family is viewed less than that. In the first book we are introduced to Emma, and now we get to see her in full form. Emma has a powerful gift or a curse. This curse happens whenever she gazes or even glances into water, she sees a vision. If she blocks that vision she gets extreme headaches. But she views these visions as curses because early in her life, it showed only negative. She doesn't trust in her gift and hates that she has to live with it. Emma is determined to save her sister. Her baby sister has been worrying her because the letters she has received don't sound like the wild child she and her older sister raised on their own. Emma is a heroine that acts on impulses. She takes action in doing what is right, not what is easy. I loved her affection she has for her family. She isn't afraid to open herself up to new experiences. She has an adventurous spirit that is engaging.

Plot and Story Line


Twilight Magic is the second book in this trilogy and once again Shari Anton had me hooked into this one. This is set in the Norman Era, mid 12th century. The historical context was one of my top favorite aspects of this story. Its obvious that the author really researched out the time and the culture. We are introduced to the King and Queen's court, and the various complex issues that resided there. We also see use of nobleman, knights, mercenary's, and Bishops. I really couldn't get enough of being drawn into this historical world that was pictured in such a way that made those tiny details come alive.

Twilight Magic also has a mix of magical elements that really add depth to this story and the series as a whole. What is most interesting, was seeing a different magical gift. A gift of seeing the future. Even though Emma despises her gift, this gift leads her to Darian, who will be her husband. At first these two are at odds, with them being forced to marry, they aren't exactly willing to even try to make it work. Even though they have some sparks, they both want an annulment. But their relationship changes as they work together to solve a mystery. This is where they really blossom, and they begin to fall in love with one another. Although it is not quick paced, its more even paced, not too rushed but not too slow. What I found most intriguing about this book was seeing the various elements come into play and seeing how it works together. And we do see more of the younger sister, Nicole. She is one of my favorite side characters....other than the dog "Rose". Nicole is so energetic and lively and that seeps out to the reader. Its fun to see a young girl, blossom even more in this story, and see the changes in her from the first book to this second installment. I can hardly wait to grab up the third book.

Twilight Magic was such a moving story and I loved the storyteller and her ability to create a beautifully crafted romance that is zesty, heartwarming and engaging from beginning to end.

The Cover


I find this cover to be so elegant in some ways. I love the bowl of water (which relates to our heroine's visions) and lovely nightgown and the candle is a good touch.

Overall View


Twilight Magic is an enthralling love story that this talented author creates for us. Stimulating in rich history, mixed with powerful magical elements and seeing two strangers fall in love with each other without meaning to. A POWERFUL STORY TO WIN YOUR HEART!!

Series Order

Midnight MagicTwilight MagicMagic In His Kiss
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceMy Review

Summary


Gareth, is well known for his charm and his seductive ways in the bedroom. He has certain connections that make him a target for women everywhere. Gareth knows a woman's body just as much as his own and enjoys the pleasures of it. After his brother Percy is killed, Gareth and his two other brothers are the prime suspects. As Gareth and his brother try to investigate and clear their names, there is also missing artwork, that they are trying to find and also the thieves responsible. Gareth, has regained the property that was denied him for so many years, as he works to restore it to its former glory, he meets an unlikely match but like bee to honey, he can't resist the temptation. Eva Russell, is a spinster, and even though they are considered "gentry", she and her sister are struggling to keep their home from being taken away from them. Eva is talented and created, and uses her talents as an artist to copy paintings and sell the work. In an unlikely meeting, she and Gareth stumble across each other and soon Eva realizes what temptation really is. Gareth with his handsome looks, his seductive ways and his charming manner, she knows he is dangerous for her and not what she wants. And even though she is trying to settle a match for her younger sister, she is drawn to Gareth and doesn't know if she will be able to resist him.

The Hero


Gareth is considered to be the "bastard" son and brother of the brothers. He grew up with a loving mother who adored his father. Even though his parents loved each other, they couldn't ever be officially married. Gareth was a interesting character. We see what a rake he is in the beginning, he definitely isn't ashamed of who he is. He has a kinship with his two other brothers. Even though he hated his brother Percy, he never wanted him dead. On the surface Gareth seems to be the type of man that only is interested in women and drinking. But we see how his childhood shaped him into who he has become. He is a bit cynical especially when it comes to marriage and love. In his mind its just a reason to have sex. Gareth has depth you don't expect when you first read this story. Its with each chapter, we see a bit more of the truth Gareth, and it isn't until you get to the "artichoke heart" of his character that you really begin to understand him. Gareth's character surprised me in those little ways that added more pleasure to reading this story.

The Heroine


Eva Rusell, is the oldest of the two sisters. Eva has had to resort to creative thinking in making sure she and her sister survive, thanks to their brother's foolish decisions that have cost them just about everything. Eva is the protective one, she is a spinster and is content with her position. She doesn't feel the need to marry, but she knows it's what her sister wants and needs. Eva is a talented artist, and she uses those abilities to create a somewhat steady income for their needs. But Eva knows that she has to be careful. Eva is very talented, but cautious especially when it comes to men. She doesn't trust Gareth or her feelings for him. What was most fun about Eva's character was seeing her personal growth. I love how firm she is with Gareth, and she stands up to him and his seductive ways. She is intelligent and creative, and a very endearing character.

Plot and Story Line


His Wicked Reputation is the first book in the latest series by Madeline Hunter. This is an author I have had on my TBR pile for years, probably ever since I started reading romance, since she has been writing for quite some time. I wonder why I haven't read her before now. I picked this book up, because I had read some positive reviews on it, and since it was available at my local library, I decided that I needed to grab this one up. From the first few pages, I was slowly hooked onto this one. I love this authors writing style, very engaging and I didn't have a hard time getting into it. In the middle,  the pace of the story was a bit slower, but then it picks up again. I had quite a enjoyable time with His Wicked Reputation, because of the characters. There was so much more to them than meets the eye and I loved seeing more depth of layers to their characters than you expect to find at first.

The plot is evenly paced, we do have a couple of mysteries in play in the story, but they aren't a driving force of the story. The actual center of the book, is the romance between Eva and Gareth. These two are one of those unlikely matches. Gareth is used to experienced women in the bedroom, but Eva is opposite from all the women he has been with. She is something different. They had a easy going bantering that was entertaining and this is what really keeps the reader involved in the story. I loved the chemistry....oh what chemistry these two have. Makes me want to find my own wicked regency man because Gareth was delicious to read. The secondary characters played a pivotal role in the story as well. I loved the sisters and their relationship, they are very close and I loved their friendship and easy going manner with one another. Its very light hearted and carefree and so fun to see them interact with each other. Then we have the brothers, and boy are they lively when they are all in the same room. Each brother is different, but they are as close as brothers can get. You see the close ties they have, despite their different views on handling life.

The love story between Gareth and Eva was charming and sweet and sensual. I just couldn't get enough of seeing them in action, and the building of their relationship. There is a instant spark of physical reaction, but with our hero being cynical about love it takes some time for him to open himself up more emotionally to Eva. But I loved seeing them grow together and it was very interesting seeing their relationship blossom with the other variables of the plot. It was simply a blast reading Gareth and Eva's story and I can hardly wait to grab up the second book.

The Cover


I do love it, with the relaxed but confident posture. Almost a "come hither"  and see what I have to offer. Love the tones of gold and grey blue in the background.

Overall View


His Wicked Reputation is a sensational read that will leave you wanting more from Madeline Hunter. An author writing at her best...historical romance with flair, passion, and mystery. Guaranteed to make you fall in love. AN INTOXICATING ROMANCE!!

Series Order

His Wicked ReputationTall Dark and WickedThe Wicked Duke
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceMy Review

Summary 


Cannon Colter, is the ideal hero, but he truly became a true hero for Yvette Sweeny on a horrific night that still haunts her. Cannon saved her when she was kidnaped. Yvette fell in love with Cannon, but Cannon thought Yvette too young and distancing himself from her was the hardest thing he had to do. Now its three years later, he has just returned from one of the hardest fights that he managed to win, and Yvette's grandfather has passed away. Cannon and Yvette are brought back together when the will claims both of them has equal heirs to a pawn shop and a house. Cannon understand Yvette in ways no other man can. He sees her as intelligent, strong and courageous. And she was worth waiting for all this time, and now Cannon wants her forever. But Yvette is determined to show Cannon she isn't the flirty girl she was three years ago. She has made a successful business with a friend in California. But there are inner demons of Yvette that could keep her from the only man she has ever truly loved.

The Hero 


Cannon, is one of those heroes that is a true hero in every sense of the word. Honorable, loyal and strong. Cannon is an MMA fighter and is one of the best. He isn't shy around women, confident and knows his own abilities. But he also knows a good woman when he finds her and Yvette has always had his heart and is willing to wait for her no matter how long it takes for her to mature and be ready for him both physically and emotionally.
When need be, I can fight dirty, though usually I just fight for sport. But when it comes to you, I fight to win.

I fell hard for Cannon because of the way he views Yvette and how he treats her. I love how respectful and understanding he is, doesn't take her life a train at high speed. He slowly wins her over by gradual degrees, he is patient and sees the real Yvette, inside and out. Love a hero that is willing to wait and be patient and not rush into anything.

The Heroine 


Yvette was raised by her grandfather and worked along side in his pawn shop. She was kidnaped but was rescued by Cannon and suffered a severe case of hero worship. She fell hard for Cannon, but he rejected her. So she left and moved to California and made a new life for herself. Yvette comes back for her grandfathers funeral and try to figure out what she needs to do about Cannon now that he has returned full force into her life. Yvette is ashamed of how she practically worshiped Cannon and wants to prove she is mature and a woman, not the flighty girl he viewed her as. Yvette is haunted by her past, and we see how trauma can affect us in numerous ways. Yvette hasn't had it easy when it has come to romantic relationships, and Yvette is attempting to deal with her problems on her own. What I truly found I liked about this heroine, is her inner strength.

Plot and Story Line 


No Limits is the first full-length novel in the Ultimate series. This series is based on a crew and group of MMA fighters. No Limits is a story that I fell hard for. I can't believe how long it took me to get a hand on this book, because I adore Lori Foster and she did a fantastic job with this book and setting the series up. The couple we have Cannon and Yvette have some rough hills and mountains to overcome. Both Cannon and Yvette have loved each other for years, but when they both return to Ohio at the same time...sparks fly. The chemistry between these two is quite intense and I could get enough of seeing their bantering and the way they interact with one another. I loved seeing these two reconnect with one another.

This is a story that I couldn't stop reading, Lori Foster is the storyteller that captivates the reader from the beginning. I just wanted more of these two. I love how easy going they are with one another. At first there is some sexual tension, and quite a bit of reluctance on Yvette's part, but Cannon is ready to pursue her and uses every 'weapon' at his disposal to gain her trust and love.
He had an athlete's body, a fighter's strength and an angel's heart - all wrapped up in gorgeous good looks.

Yvette is brought into the band of Cannon's group of friends who are quite colorful. Each member is so different, but each one of them is outrageous and Yvette takes it in stride, and she gains the friendship of each man. These secondary character really added some flair to the story and we saw some characters flirting around each other and I am eager to read their books in the near future.

The love story between Cannon and Yvette, isn't what I was expecting.
“Don’t run from me,” he said low, his mouth touching her ear. “Swear to God, Yvette, it only makes me want to chase you.”

We see two people that are reconnecting, but there are emotional demons to fight before either one of them can embrace what they have together. We see some sub-plot lines that add more conflict to the story. We see other characters take a step into the story that attempt to keep Cannon and Yvette apart from one another. I found myself intrigued by the development of the story. It takes some twists and turns, with some drama and some funny moments that added a charming quality to this romance. I couldn't get enough of it, the strong emotional bond, the sizzling sexual chemistry and the secondary characters that wrapped this story up perfectly.

The Cover 


I truly love this cover, because it has a tough feel to it, both physically and emotionally. Its almost thoughtful and pondering in some ways. Love the stance...calm and secure and sexy all at once.

Overall View 


No Limits is a stunning beginning to a new series that kept me on my toes. It dug into my emotions, stimulating and compelling. Bravo to Lori Foster for creating a love story that captivates and charms in the most balanced way.

Series Order

No LimitsHolding StrongTough LoveFighting Dirty

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This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceMy Review

Insatiable is a single title by Henley. It has been years since I have picked this author out. But she has been on my TBR list for quite a long time. So when I saw that this book was available through my local library in audio format....I started listening to it. Took me almost a week, since I only listened for a couple hours while at work. (I am alone baking for the first 3 hours so have some quiet time) I did enjoy the narrator quite a bit. She does many medieval themed romances, which is one of my favorite sub-genres in historical romance to read. I find it so refreshing after all the light Regency that has become so popular lately.  So many Julie Garwood fans would love this narrator. I loved her accent of British accents and her character inflections.

The story is pretty solid. It starts off with Cat Spencer, is a courtier of the Queen of England's court. She is out visiting some friends in the countryside. While taking a walk in the woods, she runs into Patrick Hepburn who is wild and untamed. These two have a bit of an angsty relationship in the beginning. Patrick loves his spitfire of a cat and wants her as his wife. He has special psychic abilities, where he can see the future and he knows that he will marry her. I had one reason why this story was a winner for me, the heroine. She bothered me from beginning to end. Most of the time I felt she was childish, selfish, throws tantrums. There were multiple times that I thought she would begin to settle down from her high horse and trust in the man she claims to love but always believes in the worst of him. I had a difficult time with her character because she was spiteful many times. The plot of the story was strong, the historical relevance to the story was accurate and really brings to life between Queen Elizabeth and King James of Scotland and the drama these two dealt with each other. We see the catastrophic consequences of the plague. We also see some positive fun moments for the main characters. I loved Cat's grandfather, Geordie. He was quite amusing, boisterous and proud of his heritage. Loved that and I adored the way he treats his granddaughter. He shows her some enlightening views that help change her views from having lived in court all of her life. Then we have Maggie, Cat's personal maid but was also her nanny and Maggie is very blunt with Cat which I adored. Because she practically raised Cat so she understands her in a way no one else does and I love their relationship. Maggie isn't afraid to tell Cat when she is wrong or being too full of herself.

Now our hero was very delicious to read, because I loved him as the hero. He is quite a alpha male....dominant, driven and hardworking. He definitely knows how to deal with Cat Spencer and I adored the unique ways he handles her. What was most interesting about this story was the complex intricate details in the plot. The development is what pulled me in and I admit I was curious to see if I would ever like Cat Spencer, and to be honest I never really did until the end there. There were moments throughout the story I liked her, but it wasn't enough for the negative aspects to make me like her as I wanted to.

The story overall was quite delicious and full of the depth I have been yearning for. I love a story with rich emotion that pulls me immediately to the characters and the dramatic happenings of the plot. I will be definitely reading more of this author, despite my reservations for the heroine, but when an author can bring history alive they have me hooked. A solid historical romance that is stunning, detailed, and provocative.

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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance 

Welcome to the Book Tour for The Madness of Lord Westfall by Mia Marlowe. This is a talented writer and she always delivers a unique style of romance. I love the way she writes, its different from any other historical writer. She has a fresh and rich voice that is evident through the pages. So excited for this new series full of adventure, intrigue and depth of emotion.



My Review

In this story, we have Viscount Westfall who hears the thoughts of others. He was sent by his uncle into a mad house and his time there still haunts Pierce. But then he was rescued by a friend and leader of the order of the M.U.S.E. His mentor is training him to handle his gift and to block if he needs to. Then at a ball, he meets Lady Nora Claremont, a carefree courtesan he feels sparks with. Pierce and Nora share passion with each other, but Nora is mixed up with business that could lead to her being a traitor. Only Pierce will be able to find a way to protect the woman he loves and exposing the real traitor.

This was quite interesting to read, and unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it as much as I would have liked. I was super tired while reading this one, so I believe that was the biggest reason or I might have had a much more fun time with this book. The plot was just fascinating, and even though I was a bit confused about the order of the M.U.S.E. and what is exactly was for a while. I do believe I want to read the first book and hopefully it will help make more sense before I read the next book.

What I really liked about this book was seeing the mix of psychic and historical elements come into play. This isn’t your average regency romance. Mia Marlowe has created such a unique series that has a feel to it that is set apart from anything else she has ever written. What we have is a order of the M.U.S.E., agents that all have psychic abilities and aid in the crown. We see some fun characters and I was really intrigued by a few that were closely tied to this couple. It was interesting seeing the plot development, and there was such depth to this story. I really wasn’t expecting so much from this book. This book had spicy passion, delicious adventure, intrigue and load of secrets to be unraveled. Mysterious and engaging, this story is packed with enough to satisfy and add some tasty delights to your appetite. I can’t wait to read more from this series.

Series Order

The Curse of Lord HansteadThe Madness of Lord WestfallThe Lost Soul Of Lord Badewyn

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This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceMy Review

Thunder On The Plains is a republished book from Rosanne Bittner via Sourcebooks Casablanca. A few months ago, I read this author for the first time and I have been hooked on her ever since. In fact she is one of the best romance writers I have ever had the pleasure to read and This review will be a bit shorter than I would like, but there is so much that goes on in this story and I don't want to spoil anything for those that haven't had the chance to read it yet.

Thunder On The Plains was a phenomenal romance that had me hooked from the beginning. This story kicks off when our hero  Bo Landers takes a job at 20, to escort, protect and guide a father and daughter and group of men across the west to start a transcontinental railroad. Sunny, is the daughter of a man of wealth and she is his heiress because out of his three children she is the only one that truly believes in his dream to see this railroad come to be. Sunny, is only 16 but she is lovely, sweet and kind. She has a kind word for everyone and doesn't have a hateful or mean bone in her body. Instantly there is chemistry between Bo and Sunny even though they both know how far apart their worlds are. So they become content with mere friendship. Bo and Sunny are separated but are drawn back together over the years through various set of circumstances. But Sunny and Bo have a love that is destined and both of them will have to fight for it to keep it.

What is truly wonderful about this story is how long their love story spans years, grief, tears, struggles, turmoil, and pain. This is a story that will be heartwrenching for the reader but will stay in your memory for years to come. This is an epic romance where we see that love isn't easy to find and can be hard to hold onto. Where you have to truly fight for it and that the cost can be high. Both of these characters are different, grew up in opposite ways, have futures that seem to be far apart from each other. But we see when every time they run into each other, how much they truly need each other in the right ways. This is a romance that kept my tissues right by my side and I couldn't help but feel for these two. It is quite a big book, took me two days to read with 600 pages but what a book!!! This is one of my favorites books of the year and Rosanne Bittner is classic and writes romance in a way you can never expect.

We see a glimpse of history of the transcontinental railroad, and the surrounding conflict of the war between the states and other factors that caused many problems before it was fully built. We see the struggles the native Americans suffered through, but also the families trying to move west. The historical aspect is true to fact and had a unique experience seeing a different outlook on the history of the United States.

This is a story that kept me spellbound from the beginning, that had me battling with my emotions and is one of the best reads I have ever read. This author is moving to the top of the best authors to read in romance. She writes in a way that is real and vivid and true. If you haven't read this author, pick her up right now and you won't have regrets....100% guaranteed.

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In Wanted: Wild Thing we have a story that continues the series of Midnight Liasons. Now this is a series I fell in love with years ago when the first book came out and I love each story of this series and Jessica Sims AKA Jessica Clare and Jill Myles. Jessica Sims is her PNR name and I love how fresh these books are. Each story we see more into this fabulous series and in Wanted: Wild Thing we see something new happen. We have a new set of paranormal creatures come into play here, ones we haven’t seen yet. Our heroine, is a “changeling” she works at the Midnight Liasons setting up matches between paranormal creatures such as vampires, sirens, and shifters. But she has a secret she has kept from her closest friends, she is a changeling–she is coming upon her 25th birthday, she is still a virgin and not because she wants it. Whenever she gets aroused, her beast from within comes out to play. But she was told from a seer that if she can find her true mate, she won’t transform and once she loses her virginity she can be her normal self. But then a Fae comes in claiming she is his “pet” to do with as he wishes. He brings her a bodyguard, and within a month her transformation will be complete but her bodyguard has to stay by her side at all time. This put a serious kink into her plans. Then we have our hero, Hugh. A big hunky male that is all toughness and muscles. He has never been in the human world before, his kind lives in a fae realm. He has never been around women, and is out of his element when it comes to flirty females.

Now this was a story that was so entertaining. I was able to snatch it up from my library’s audiobook system: Hoopla. I want to talk about the narration for a bit. Now I think in the past I have been extremely lucky to have found narrators that I instantly fell in love with. But I will be honest this narrator threw me off for a bit and I had trouble at first adjusting. But eventually she grew on me. I think the southern accent is what threw me off. But after a little while, I grew accustomed to it. What is most fun about this story was seeing the conflict between these two. I loved that they were both virgins (that hardly EVER happens in romances especially in paranormals and contemporary type settings!!) And boy did I love that aspect. Because its orginial and felt fresh and new. This really adds something different to the story because we see how these two really struggle with the chemistry they feel for each other. We see both sides on the conflict. Because Rhyder, wants to be free of her creature, she doesn’t want to be a kept pet by the fae and be breeded all of her existence. She wants love and freedom. The only way to have that is to have sex and there is only one person that has seen her true form and accepted her fully. The only problem is he can’t touch her. The fae has promised that if Rhyder comes into full bloom of her changeling form, than Hugh and his primordial’s (all 24) will be given their mates. None of them have ever known family, love or passion. They just know stark loneliness and living a empty life. He is the leader of must think of his people first.

What was most heartbreaking was seeing these two together and how much they truly cared about one another but both were in a tough spot. This conflict is what drives the story and I couldn’t help but fall in love with every aspect of this story. I love the way these two are with each other. Having both of them as virgins, is something that I loved the most about this book. I like that they learn each other on the same level, both have zero experience but they both are passionate and it was quite fun to see the way they come together. This is a PNR that is sweet, fun and highly entertaining. Packed with emotional depth, endearing characters, and a story line to keep you going. Nothing held back in Wanted: Wild Thing. I am eager to see if Sims does more with these Primordial males because dang they sure are sexy and I want more of them.