This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary

Sadie Higgins has had to bail her brother continually out of trouble. But his latest altercation involves stealing cows from the Kendricks. So Sadie goes after Connor hoping that she can change his mind and get whatever he has stolen returned back to the rightful owners. But when she finds him and confronts him, he is with a band of others. But Sadie is in over her head. Because the so called leader of the group, is viscious. He strings her up in the woods and wraps her body with barbed wire and leaves her there. Rory Kendrick on the search for his missing cows, stumbles upon Sadie, who is barely alive. He rescues her and aids her in healing. Rory has always wanted Sadie, but has never initaited any kind of romantic entanglement with her until now. Rory wants her, but he also needs her. As the circumstances with Sadie's father and brother erupt so does the love between them. Will Sadie be able to make the right choose between her brother and the man she has come to love more than life?

The Hero

Rory Kendrick, along with his other three brothers, became orphans when their parents were killed in a avalanche. They were raised by their grandfather and work together on the ranch. Rory is the oldest, full of responsibilities and very serious minded. His brother nickname him the "monk". Even though he has had enjoyed the company of a woman on occasion, he has never had a real relationship until he stumbles upon Sadie. Rory is hard working, responsible, duty bound and loyal. Family is everything to him, and he will do anything to protect Sadie even from her reckless brother. Rory was one delicious hero, and I honestly couldn't seem to get enough from him. Man was he sexy and loved the whole serious man theme going on here because they usually make the best romantic partners. He is truly wonderful with Sadie and the type of hero you could see yourself wanting to marry---he is that good!!

The Heroine

Sadie Higgins is in a tough spot where her family is concerned. Her mother passed away when she was young. Her father is currently having severe medical issues he doesn't share with her...but she knows that its bad. Ever since her brother got into drugs, she has had to constantly bail him out of every crime and problem he has gotten into. She is one tough hardworking woman. Works two jobs and takes care of her father. Sadie is probably one of my favorite heroines I have read so far this year. I was very impressed by her from the beginning. Even after what her brother does to her, she has a hard time letting go of wanting to help him. But she also pays his debts, she is honest and caring. She takes responsiblity for Connor even though she didn't commit those crimes but settles any debts she possibly can. She has spunk, is a fighter but I loved the way she embraces her relationship with Rory.

Plot and Story Line

Stone Cold Cowboy is one hell of a romantic jewel and I savored every moment. Literally, I couldn't put this book down at all it was so damn good. I just wanted morer of Rory and Sadie. This does have a bit of a heart breaking moments, especially there in the beginning. My Goodness...my heart just reached out to Sadie. But when Rory enters the scene....HOLY HANNAH did I fall in love with him at the spot. He is so honorable and good and I wanted more and more of them together. They make a fantastic match and it was so interesting to see them work through issues together, learn to trust one another and not hold things back from each other. Quite refreshing to read a story, where a couple just embraces what they have together and don't fight it or go into denial over what they are feeling.

I also had a fun time with Rory's family, most especially his grandfather. His brothers were a hoot, and I loved the great familial bond they share. The brothers tease each other, but they also fight for each other and support one another no matter what!! So admirable and the grandfather. He is darling. Always trying to matchmake his grandsons so they can marry and give him great grand babies. hehe They also accept Sadie instantly, and loved seeing that. They see what she means to Rory from the beginning, and treat her as one of their own which is what she needs. Sadie is definitely going through the ringer emotionally, and Rory is stable and reliable and is exactly the type of support she needs at the right moments.

The romance is sweet and charming but powerful!

Yes. I love you. With everything that I am, every breath I take, every beat of my heart, I love you.

Rory and Sadie have an instant connection to each other, and they build that up. I also loved seeing how Sadie learns to let go of situations that she can't change especially when it comes to her brother Connor.

The Cover

What a delicious covers and he isn't showing anything!! All covered up but boy does he make that t shirt and jeans look good!! I also love the ranch backdrop as well.

Overall View

Stone Cold Cowboy was one of the most satisfying romance reads I have ever read!! Boy does this author rock romance....she writes it beautiful, intricately and packs it with enough real emotion to sweep the reader off their feet. SUPERB IN EVERY WAY!!



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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Cedar Ridge is the last place that Lily Danville wants to be, but she has little options. With being terminated from her job just to save face, her friend convinces her to return to Cedar Ridge, and since he has a job for her she knows that she will need to, especially with her savings almost depleted and no one willing to hire her due to the scandal. And one of the first people that she runs into on her way back, is none other than Aiden Kinkaid, firefighter extraordinaire and the man she once fell in love with. Lily Danville is shocked to see him again, and as she starts to settle in at Cedar Ridge, she keeps running into this sexy man she can't seem to get out of her mind or her libido. But Lily has unresolved issues she has to get through first before she can ever think about reconnecting with him again. Because her sister was killed ten years ago while on a climb and wanted Aiden. Lily, still not past her sisters death, is having a hard time letting go of the past to embrace the present.

Plot and Story Line 

In Second Chance Summer, we are introduced to Cedar Ridge Colorado and the fun and sexy Kincaid family. Now also this was my first Jill Shalvis book and I was highly impressed with this one. Once I started listening, I didn't want to put it down, and in my opinion wasn't long enough to satisfy...I just wanted more of Aiden and Lily and the fun mountain setting we have here. This was such a easy going and heartwarming romance that kept me enthralled. I was in the mood for a story like this, so it was just a perfect read for me. And had enough emotional balance to the story to win me over instantly. The chemistry between Aiden and Lily is explosive, and man Aiden is one sexy beast!!!

There were some men who just knew how to kiss, the kind of kiss that could send a woman reeling. The kind of kiss that could take away problems and awareness and … and everything. The kind of kiss that could shatter her into a trillion little pieces. The kind of kiss that somehow both calmed her body and soul even as it wound her up for more. Aidan was that kind of kisser

I love firefighters (what women doesn't...they always fill shirts out so nicely), but Aiden is altogether different. Aiden is the personality to rescue people in distress, I mean HELLO----its what he does for a living hehe. But he along with his brothers, are working their butts off trying to save their family business that their father ruined with gambling debts. The bond these siblings have is so wonderful and engaging. Their bantering was contagious and I always had a good laugh when they got together.

The romance between Aiden and Lily was quite warm and fun. We see the connection they have together, but what I loved more is seeing it grow through the story. They both get tested in different ways, but it only made their relationship more vital. I had no strong issues with the book overall, although Lily could be a bit over dramatic at times. Its what had me four star this book instead of five star. But even though she wasn't my favorite heroine to read...she definitely grew on me and I really liked her. This was a very refreshing read and I can't wait to dive into more of this author.

The Narration 

I will be honest, I had a hard time with the narration. It was the way this narrator talked. Almost like she was always out of breath or something. I don't know, it took me a while to get used to it.

The Cover 

Man...I LOVE this cover. This male model definitely fills out those clothes so well....can I marry him?? hehe Love the blue sky backdrop with the mountains...boy do I love my Rockies.

Overall View 

Second Chance Summer was a tasteful and highly entertaining romance that sizzles from head to toe!! Quite the Endearing Romance!!



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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Ever Night 

In Ever Night, we have our Heroine Rose, who is transported to another realm and she is part of a unique group of people who can shift from different realms. But Rose is only 17 on her first visit on her birthday, and is taken to the King of the realm of warriors. Vasilli has lived for centuries, and even though Rose it technically viewed as his "enemy" he is drawn to her. But he knows that she is too young. But he binds her to him in a sacred ceremony of his people. Literally she is his wife even if she doesn't know it yet. The next year Rose comes with a bit more kick ass attitude to her belt. Each time they see each other, Rose is drawn to Vasilli even more. To the point that despite what she has learned in her own time and realm, that she only wants to be by his side.

This was a wonderful novella, and one of the best PNR I have ever read. I really liked seeing the set up of this world that Showalter shows us. I do hope she plans on adding more books to this since I fell in love with this mysterious realm. She definitely left a couple of teasers with two side characters: Vasilli's brother and his best friend. I would love to see them get their own stories. The narration was done so well and the romance between these two was sizzling and I just wanted more.

The Collector 

In The Collector, Neal Etan is out to seek out an ancient artifact, one that is capable of healing a very close friend to death. He must get it at all costs. However the person that is keeping it from him, is none other than Viviana Rowan. She protects certain artifacts especially those that deal with certain legends of a ancient people that she has studied for years. Neal is overbearing and rude and she refuses to just "hand" it over to him. But when Neal touches her, he leaves Viviana vulnerable to attack because Viviana is rare to his kind and he will need to fully claim her in order to protect her. Neal is dying due to a circumstance of his people, and only one tiny woman can save his life...Viviana.

This was quite a unique story, and the first I have read from this author. I can just say this won't be the last time I read Shannon K. Butcher. I can tell you that much. Even though at first, I was a bit confused by what was really going on. I caught up pretty quickly, and even though it was a novella, it still had great emotional depth to it with some fabulous sexy moments to leave you breathless. I was very fascinated with this world I was able to get introduced to. i GOTTA HAVE MORE....GIMME MORE!! LOL

Crystal Skull 

In Crystal Skull, it starts off with our heroine, Natalie Albright who is an archeologist. And she has discovered some ancient ruins, and as her team seeks to study it she discovers a crystal skull. She also is seeking a connection to her past. Because the ancient writings on the wall she recognizes, since they are familiar to her and she knows that they are the key to finding her real identity. But everything goes haywire when the villagers of the area, seek to destroy it and she must find the one man who can aid her. But when she goes out to seek him, they are attacked by beasts from the underworld and only working together and risk it all can they close the portal for these beasts and protect hidden secrets.

I haven't read Jessica Anderson in the LONGEST time and whew I can see that I definitely need to get back to her and soon. I had forgotten all about this world of Mayan prophecy's and ancient mythology themes and my goodness I was swept away in this story. I love this world and it was great to see more of it in this story. The only thing I didn't like was the romance between these two. It felt too rushed even for a novella. And even though they have known each other for a little while in the story, it felt a bit off to me. But other than that everything else about this book was fabulous.

Red Angel 

In Red Angel, we are introduced to Jamie Angel who is a fighter of vampires and demons alike. He is the oldest of his family and tends to take charge way too much. His sister makes an effort to invite his nemesis and her best friend for New Years. For the first time in Jamie's life, he is drawn to a woman who is an angel, smells sweeter than heaven and he can't seem to get enough of her. But then he learns her true identity---she is an angel sent to earth to protect the one vampire he can't stand but is mated to his close friend. Their love is forbidden and untouchable unless they can find a loophole that will allow them to be together.

This book was the most emotional for me to get through out of all four novella's. Boy did this author really work me good. It has the whole "forbidden love" scenario. I love this trope and I don't get to read it enough, and I loved seeing it in a novella that was very well written. I was very surprised how much I loved this book. Because normally I wouldn't be able to with it being so short, however, this author did wonders with it. And I just wanted more, because this world she introduces only intrigues the reader even more. Especially when we have revealed the truth behind Jamie and Sunny and their true destiny.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Sir James McKenna is a younger son of the McKenna Chief in the Highlands. James has always had a rivalry with his older brother Malcolm. He then meets Lady Davina Armstrong, and as he is escourting Davina and her cousin Joan home. We see the instant relationship that begins to build between these two. James and Davina spend every moment they can together and they fall in love with each other. But on the day when they make plans for their future and believed nothing could dampen their happiness...the worst happens. They are surrounded by a band of rogues, and James against six men, was too much. Davinia suffered nightmares and withdrew from the world and from James. Davinia was in shock, but her family shelters her from anyone outside their home. Davinia after five long years, takes James mother's offer on a Christmas celelbration at the McKenna holding. She knows that this is what she needs. But upon arrival, she is sought after by Malcolm and then James arrives unexpectedly from his battles down south. By decree of their father....Malcolm and James must both court Davinia and win her hand. Thus the rivalry between the brothers continues, however fated love doesn't go away...and soon James and Davinia rekindle the fire that once burned between them if they can overcome the trials of the past.

The Hero 

James McKenna, has always had to work hard to seek his father's approval. As the younger son, he has needed to prove himself even more than his brother ever has had to do. But when he discovers the love for a sweet and kind woman...he is hooked heart and soul. Until the worst happens, and he is unable to fully protect the woman he loves. When she rejects him and their plans for the future. He leaves Scotland, he heads down to fight in the crusades. He hones his skills in battle, every day building strength and skill. His guilt of that one day driving him to the brink...to prove himself. He becomes hardened by experience in training and a losing battle. He returns home, battle worn and weary. This hero...*sigh* is pure deliciousness. My goodness I just wanted to hold him all the book long. He is a fighter, holds his emotions in, and suffers from guilt of the past. But despite his anger toward Davinia, he still loves her and fights for her when he needs to. I loved his drive and determination to win over the woman he loves.

The Heroine 

Lady Davina Armstrong, has grown up sheltered and always looked under from the beauty and grace of her cousin. She is pretty, but not overly so, but she is kind and sweet spirited and couldn't hurt a fly. She has a calm disposition and never seeks out conflict. When she wins the love of James, Davina knows she is one lucky woman. Until the day of hell arrives, and her life changes forever. She is attacked, traumatized and has no memory but has the fears of every man surrounding her. Including her beloved James. She can't ever be his wife in the true sense and pushes him away for his own good so he can find a woman he can be with intimately. But five years pass, and she is still suffers in her own little world and needs escape from it. She needs to get out, explore and get over her fears and fight for her life and happiness. She wants to find joy again and she knows a little trip for the holiday with James' mother is exactly what she needs. Davina is a heroine I grew to really like. Even at the beginning, I liked her. I felt a kinship to her, many of her qualties I felt I could relate to. What we see next is a version of medieval PTSD. And how a young sweet girl reacts to it, and maybe not in the best way, but she eventually works through it. However I think her uncle and aunt and their over protection were damaging to her healing. She really starts to heal the moment she decides for herself she wants more in life and goes after it. This is where we see such character growth and the book surrounds her character. I LOVED that. Even though I liked both brothers, there was something so enchanting about Davina that I was drawn to. And it was an adventure to see her grow and change and become a strong woman.

Plot and Story Line 

The Highlander Who Loved Me is a truly emotional and riveting romance that I was instantly hooked on. I honestly couldn't get enough of these two and their story. Now technically it can be termed as a "love triangle" but in all honestly it's a very minimal aspect to the plot. From the beginning, you know that this love story is centered on James and Davina. I understand why this author chose to pick the angle of mixing in the brother. In the end it turns out to benefit all three involved. What wins you over though is the beginning blooms of their romance. Its sweet, fun and silly at times.

Breathless when she reached him, Davina stretched up on her toes and quickly kissed his freshly shaven cheek.

“Och, now, Davina, is that any way to kiss a man?”

Teasing laughter bubbled to her lips. “Cease yer bellyaching. Ye are the man who taught me how to kiss, James McKenna, therefore ye’ve no right to complain.”

She gave him a saucy wink, then spun around and raced to the trees. Playfully, he gave chase, catching her quickly and easily. Laughing, he drew her close and they swayed together on the uneven ground.

“I dinnae teach ye that sort of kissing, Davina Armstrong,” he said. “Give me a proper kiss.”

We see how after the attack and the separation how their relationship changes. Both James and Davina will learn that they have to come to terms with the past before they can ever embrace the love that has never died. I loved James' family. They were so dynamic and wonderful to read...very lively. The parents, well they are fabulous. The father is just like his sons, but the mother is highly spirited and obviously is the leader of the home in many ways. The oldest brother Malcolm, at first I didn't like him. But boy he grew on me, he is tough and talented when fighting, but he also is a widower and has a precocious daughter he spoils rotten. Malcolm is looking for a wife to be the mother to his daughter. I understood his pursuit of Davina, but he is also respectful and patient with her wishes and needs. I admired that about him.

Now the romance between James and Davina. After they are reunited, it's a bit rocky...okay a lot rocky. James isn't sure he and Davina have anything worth fighting for anymore. Davina really hurt him five years previous when she rejected him. That hurt has festered over the years. But slowly James starts to realize how much she really matters to him and he doesn't want to lose her. But there is also a danger to Davina. A mysterious villain is after her, and James will do anything to protect her.

"I love ye, Davina. With all my heart and soul. 'Tis time to finally put the past to rest and start the future we both desire." James knew their love was something that couldn't be found with another. They belonged together--in this life and the next. They had from the beginning. It might have taken them longer than most to reach for a life of happiness, but now it was firmly within their grasp, James knew he would never let it go. 

Any one that loves a wonderful historical romance...needs to pick this author up, so brilliant!! I am hoping for Malcolm's story next.

The Cover 

GORGEOUS....I have a weakness for romance covers like these. So sensual and romantic, I love the blue colors used. And yeah I totally adore the bluish colored plaid. Has a nice touch.

Overall View 

In The Highlander Who Loved Me  we find a stimulating and emotionally driven romance of mistrust, anger, pain and we see the healing power of love and redemption. A SEXY PAGE TURNER!!

Books N'Tunes Reading Challenge:

 

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Ailis Robertson and Bhaic MacPherson are both pawns in the mind of the Regent. These two families have been feuding for generations, but Ailis and Bhaic will have to make a difficult choice. Either marry, or watch their father's and men be killed. Ailis would do anything for her father, who loved her and raised her. Even if that means marrying the enemy. Despite the fact that Ailis and Bhaic despise what they have to do....they do what needs to be done. At first they both decide not to consummate it, hoping that later they will be able to obtain an annulment. But during the may day celebration festival, they find that they don't want to resist the chemistry that is building between them. Ailis and Bhaic realize how important it is for this alliance to continue, to stop the fighting. But Ailis has the worst time of it. She is forced to go to Bhaic's home, where she is the enemy. She will have to work hard to prove herself to Bhaic's people and most especially his brother. But Ailis and Bhaic find something precious together, they find a fierce and passionate love that they both are willing to fight for.

The Hero 

Bhaic is the younger son of the Laird of the clan. But he is just as strong and determined and a capable fighter as his elder brother. He also is quite the ladies man, He is shocked when he learns of the latest scheme from the regent. At first he wants to fight and battle his way out. However, he can't deny his attraction to Ailis or what an alliance could mean between the two feuding clans. Bhaic makes an effort to cede to her wishes for an annulment, however during a certain celebration, he is green with jealousy, and he realizes that he won't be able to resist claiming her as his wife. Bhaic is such a sexy hero and boy I had a blast having him as a main character. He is very alpha, commanding, and quite a fighter and he definitely knows how to do battle in the bedroom. *shivers down spine* What I truly came to admire so much about his character, was seeing the way that he handled his brother especially in the way he makes an effort to shield and protect Ailis when his people get a bit out of hand. Overall a fantastic hero to read.

The Heroine 

Ailis is a beloved daughter from her father, since her mother has been gone for many years. What was most enchanting about Ailis was seeing the way that she fights but she also has a gentle spirit. I was worried when I first started reading this, that her character would be too intense since some spitfire heroines can be quite outrageous at times. But boy Mary Wine, truly knows how to write characters especially her heroine. I grew to love Ailis; because she is a fighter, stands her own grand, but is also willing to compromise at times too and see things in a different way. She can be kind and honest and open and it was quite interesting to see the various facets of her character. With each chapter, you see more depth to Ailis and that made me love her even more.

Plot and Story Line 

in Highland Spitfire, a new series from Mary Wine, we have a story that is full of excitement, romance and history. This was such a blast of a romance, and once I started I couldn't put it down. I am always surprised in how well Mary Wine can completely win me over and I shouldn't be....since I have yet to find a book from her I haven't enjoyed. But this might be my favorite one that she has written that I have been able to read.

It sets off with a marriage of convenience, and what a start to their union. Practically forced into in, knowing they if they didn't....they wouldn't survive and neither would their people. And what was quite amusing and villainous was the Regent. He is a bit of a villain but he was quite amusing at times. I found it quite fun seeing how he tries to get them to get close to each other especially on their wedding night.

Spoiler

We see on their wedding night, how there is nothing for them to make a fire or many blankets at all....so they are forced to warm each other up----which in the Regent's mind, can encourage them to heat up the night with some lovin'. Quite devious and cunning.

Despite the Regent's plan, Bhaic and Ailis have a plan of their own and make their own plans including not dealing with this farce of a marriage that neither of them want (or that is what they tell themselves) But when it comes down to what both really want, we see how much the like each other, and the fact that they can laugh together....and their kisses are quite explosive, says that there is definite potential for the both of them. We see how the green man of jealousy rears its head, and shows how sometimes plans don't go the way you expect.

We see the strength of our heroine, who goes to live with Bhaic and is surrounded by everyone one who hates her, no friends and all want her gone and see her as the enemy. But she forms a strong bond of friendship to Helen (who I believe is the heroine for the second book). I loved Helen, because she was kidnapped to be of use to Bhaic's older brother. And yeah there is something more going on between those two that I hope we get to see in the second book. The older brother, well he is quite the alpha. He is way worse than Bhaic.....Bhaic is like a tame dog compared to his brother, Marcus. So I will say, that the author does give us a bit of teaser about Marcus and Helen and I am quite looking forward to what Mary Wine has in store for us.

The romance between these two is quite charming, sexy and full of engaging characters that made me want to pick this author up more!!

The Cover 

What a beautiful cover, I love the artist here!! I love the bright and vivid colors that are shown. It draws the eye with all that red and gold.

Overall View 

Highlander Spitfire is a highly entertaining romance that brings us into a feuding clan war, packed with sensuality, energy and passion leap from the pages, and Mary Wine gives us a tantalizing read!!!  A TRUE WIN OF A ROMANCE!!



 

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

The Princess Wore Plaid deals with a short story about two people that may not seem right for each other at first....but end up needing each other in the right ways. Tatiana, is a princess from Oxenburg, but on her way to meet up with her cousin, she was injured in a carriage accident, wandering in the forest and was taken in by a couple who owns a inn. She works in the inn hoping to hear from one of her cousins. Then she meets our hero, Lord Buchanan. Who has a bit of a temper, suffers a war injury but there is chemistry between them. Tatiana knows that she can't get involved with him, her life is in Oxenburg. But as she knows their time is drawing near, so does her relationship with Buchanan become stronger than ever. Tatiana will have to make a hard choice....her life in Oxenburg or the man she has come to love.

I really liked this novella, the ending there seemed a bit rushed, but I really liked seeing the building of the chemistry between these two. Karen Hawkins is such a enjoyable author, highly entertaining, and I really liked what she did with this story. Both characters are delightful. The story is quick but fun. It also gives us a teaser for Nikolas---the next book coming up. If you like this author and enjoy this series....definitely recommend trying out this novella.



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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Stanton Shaw, went to college, and had to tough it out being away from the girl he loved and the child they had together. He keeps busy with his studies and makes some friends. Little by little, he makes compromises with Jenny that he would have never imagined if she hadn't pushed for it despite how much it hurt her in the process. He started living a life in the city, and craved it and loved every moment. Now ten years later, he is a DC defense attorney, trying to make partner. His current partner in the firm, Sofia is also a woman he has been having sex with for almost a year. They have a relationship as friends with benefits. Then Stanton hears about some painful news....Jenny is getting married to another man. Stanton is outraged, and he convinces Sofia to come along with him to keep himself from being an ass and to win Jenny back. But Stanton never imagined how stubborn and willful Jenny would be. Or how much he despises JD yet at the same time respect him. But as he pursues Jenny, attempting to convince her to leave her fiance and be with him again....the feelings between Stanton and Sofia become more realized. Stanton will need to choose over the woman of his past or the woman of his present?

The Hero 

Stanton Shaw, always dreamed of living the small town he grew up in. He had always great plans for the future. But when he was seventeen, he was shocked when his girlfriend and childhood sweetheart, ends up pregnant. At first he knows the right thing is to marry her. But Jenny refuses him, not wanting to hold him back from his dreams. Willing to wait until he has cultivated his career. But as time goes by, Stanton starts to drift away from his loyalties to Jenny, and enjoying the life of college---and the wild girls who crave his attention. Now ten years have passed, and even though he is a respected lawyer, his attitude toward Jenny hasn't changed. He doesn't like change, he likes circumstances as they are. I liked this hero but then I didn't. Quite simply he was a conceited ass!! But quite frankly Jenny kinda helped him get there. At first I admired how noble he was to Jenny. Wanting to stay loyal and not have affairs or anything. But when a woman tells a man she is okay with an open relationship (but really isn't)....especially when you live thousands of miles away from each other....well then he is bound to stray. And boy does Stanton stray. But this isn't what made me dislike him like I did at times. Its the way he lives a double standard. Its okay for him to sleep around while having a relationship with Jenny on the side when he happens to deign them with his presence. But when she gets engaged....ALL bets are off. Boy does he go overboard. But somehow this author won me over with him. He is human...he makes mistakes, especially with Sofia. But he learns even if it takes a while to get it through his thick skull.

The Heroine 

Sofia Stantos, is very career driven but that doesn't mean she doesn't dream of love or having a family. Sofia is very close to her family, her parents came to the states to start anew. She and her brothers were involved in a plane accident when she was young and can't fly. It still haunts her at times. Sofia has worked hard to become successful. Even though she is friends with benefits with Stantos, her heart breaks when learning about his girl Jenny and her engagement and that he wants her to come with him. She feels like she has been kicked when down. But she bears it with grace. Never letting on her true feelings...that she wants more than just his sex partner. Sofia...was a marvelous heroine and I adored her so much. I can't even describe how much better she is from Stanton. She goes through a lot in this story and it just about broke my heart.

“Sex with Stanton is exhilarating, working beside him is a privilege. But loving him…that just hurts."

She is spirited though, and is a bit of a city slicker, and has a hard time adjusting to country life which I thought was hilarious. But she handles it pretty well. She handles the situation with Stanton and Jenny even better. I was very impressed, because I am sure I couldn't do what she does. But she stands her ground when its important to her and I liked her personality.

Plot and Story Line 

Overruled is the first book in the series and the first book I have read this author and boy was I drawn into this story. It didn't take me long to listen to it...only two days. Which is pretty quick for an audiobook. Normally I don't always feel comfortable with the "love triangle" trope. But this one definitely swept me away in the emotions of it. And yeah I don't think I really read the blurb very well or not thoroughly before listening to it because I fell in love with Stanton and Jenny together. I really really did. The beginning of the story, shows their beginnings and their sweet love as teenagers. It also shows how Stanton struggles emotionally being away from her and his daughter while at college. This is the moment I wanted to break down in tears. You see how he goes through some revelations for himself and makes changes. Jenny was a unique character. In some ways I liked how she pushed Stanton to fulfill his dreams, but I felt that she was a bit of a drama queen at times. Especially when she practically forced him into an open relationship he didn't want....yet get mad at him for doing what she told him. I guess all of us women can relate with that?? So I could understand why our hero was very confused. But he figures out the best way for himself. Even if I didn't agree with it all the way....I respected him for doing what was right for him.

Now we are introduced to Sofia and damn I liked her...heck of a lot actually. Even if it took some getting used to that she was the real heroine of the story since I wasn't expecting it. I like that she gives control to Stanton and helps him think logically instead of a raving lunatic (which happens OFTEN) They are such a good team and Stanton could be so blind when it came to Sofia. At times I wanted to shake him because he has such a great thing with Sofia.

Because I want him to fight for me. More than anything. For him to want me---not just as a friend or a lover. But as his forever. 

I will be honest that this is part where I like Jenny and JD. In fact, I might have liked them more than Stanton and Sofia (and they were the main couple of the story hehe) I know, I am bad...but seriously...those two were just perfect for each other. JD is such the better man, he knows exactly who Stanton is, but is so trusting of Jenny and has faith in their relationship. Love a man who is secure in his feelings and doesn't hold back. He does keep his feelings about Stanton hidden, so when they come out...watch out.

Now one aspect of this story that I really wanted to mention is that the humor is so dang good!! I was laughing my head off all through this story. This author has such superb humor and the narrators really brought that part of the book out so well I just wanted to applaud them for it. It's not always easy to convey humor like they did....but yeah I got hooked really fast into it. Especially the scene with the tractors. SO GOOD!!! The side characters rock.

"Yeah, we're kicking ass and taking names. We're like the Avengers. The good ones, anyway"

"Ooh" I gasp playing along "Can I be Thor? I always liked the hammer"

He pats my head "No, you poor, foolish girl, you're Black Widow, Jake's the Hulk and Stanton's Captain America"

Sofia's brothers, to the friends of Sofia and Stanton in the legal offices, and Stanton and Jenny's family members. Even some of the town folk I really liked quite a bit. They added some fun elements to the story that made it even more engaging and was just the right touch. But what I loved was toward the end, where Stanton really shows his true colors and this is where I was fully satisfied with his character.

There comes a time in every man’s life when he takes a good, long look at himself and admits he’s been an asshole. A self-centered prick.

The Cover

I like the cover, it has a sexy feel to it that just makes you want to grab it up. But I don't like that they couldn't make it more realistic to the heroine in the story. She is NOT caucasian....she has more olive skin, so I do wish her skin wasn't so white. But I do love the whole "grabbing the tie" element.

Overall View

Overruled is a sexy read that is Sizzling in the pages...an emotional roller coaster that will give you one hell of a ride!!!

"Jenny will always be my friend, the mother of the little girl who owns my heart, the first girl I loved. " Then my voice goes scratchy, strangled with emotion. "But you, Sofia...I swear if you let me...You will be the last."

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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary

Edwin Barlow, the Earl of Blakeborough, has known the Lindsey's for a long time, and is a close friend to the family. When Lady Clarissa's brother Warren, asks Edwin to watch over Clarissa while he heads off to Europe to help their younger brother...Edwin is more than willing. But the moment he agrees, he realizes that he is way in over his head, because the chemistry between himself and Clarissa is flame worthy. Edwin escourts Clarissa around town for certain events, balls and soirees, but there is a reason he is their escort. There is a stalker, a french nobleman, who is after Clarissa for unknown reasons. Clarissa is afraid of him but won't explain why, but he knows it must be something serious to make her so fearful since she is bold and daring and not hesitant to put a man in his place if need be. But there is a secret plot in place, soon Clariss and Edwin end up in a marriage of convenience when they are left with no choice unless Clarissa wants to be forced into a marriage with the one man she fears the most.

Plot and Story Line

Study of Seduction is a story I have been highly anticipating ever since the first book "Art of Sinning" came out. I was excited for Edwin and Clarissa's story. We see the sizzling chemistry between them in the first book, so I couldn't wait to open this one up. I will say that overall this was a wonderful romance that I just soaked up. Although I do feel that the first half was a bit slow, still engaging but not as much as the second half. I did love the bantering between these two though. They are a riot together. They tease each other mercilessly and I had a ball of fun with their antics. I found this story to be quite interesting especially in the way they end up together. Because even though its a marriage of convenience romance, we do see the affection and friendship these two have for each other before that aspect comes into play. It leads up to it, and doesn't happen instantly, which I really liked. At times I had a hard time connecting with the actual romance on ocassion but there were so many elements that made this story a very much enjoyable read. It did have some more intrigue and tension in the plot than I was expecting. I liked the involvement of the villain and seeing how it adds a few thrills to the story. There were quite a few tear worthy moments here especially toward the end. The actual romance between Edwin and Clarissa was heartwarming and lighthearted. I felt like Sabrina Jeffries really balanced this story out so well.

The Cover

Oh I am in so love with this cover....I really like the man behind set up of the pose and the colors are just perfect. I love the blue and pink.

Overall View

The Study of Seduction is charming, sweet and has some twists to keep you ever engaged. HEARTWARMING!!



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