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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Another wonderful addition that Samantha Young brings to the Dublin Street series. We see so much growth in this group of family and friends that come together during the good and the hard times.
Echoes At Scotland Street is a story that will lift your spirits but also push your emotional limits at times. Our delicious key players for this story are:
This story was pretty interesting to read and I have been admiring Cole for most of the series especially in seeing what a good brother he was to Jo--a heroine in book 2. We see in his true element, a talented artist working in a high end tattoo parlor. Now I haven't had the chance to read too many books that take place in a tattoo parlor and I found that Young did a wonderful job in writing up the set up of this story. Our heroine, is looking for a job and finds a secretarial job and runs into Cole, a boy she once knew when she was a teenager and felt a connection. But Shannon tends to think she has the worst luck in men, they tend to all be very toxic and betray her in one form or another and is estranged from her family. At first she makes a certain assumption about Cole, that he is like all the other men she has been with previously. Which causes some intense tension and our heroine has to prove to Cole how sorry she really is. Because Shannon soon realizes that Cole isn't the bad boy that he appears to be and appearances can be deceiving. But this isn't the first time that Shannon makes a mistake with Cole. And she will be faced with a difficult decision either her family or the man she loves?
What I found simply wonderful about this book that made the biggest impression on me was our hero. He was definitely dreamy and even though he is a bit of a playboy at times, he also is a good one, a true keeper. He also isn't as cocky as you would expect. In fact, our of all the heroes, this author has written, Cole is probably my favorite to read so far. There is something so compelling about his character, and how true he is to himself. I truly adored the changes we see in our heroine. She has been burned so much in her life, and my heart really broke for her situation. So I tried not to judge her too harshly. What I respected about the way her character was written is how realistic she is. She really grows and learns to fight for herself and what she really wants in life and I just admired that. And she learns some tough lessons but I did like that she comes through for the reader and you learn to become endeared by her character.
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Another wonderful addition that Samantha Young brings to the Dublin Street series. We see so much growth in this group of family and friends that come together during the good and the hard times.
Echoes At Scotland Street is a story that will lift your spirits but also push your emotional limits at times. Our delicious key players for this story are:
- Cole Walker, our sexy bad boy hero, tattooed and charming and women chase him but at the heart is a good guy with a heart of gold.
- Shannon MacLeod, our lovely heroine, spirited and been burned by bad boys and considers herself to have the worst luck in men.
This story was pretty interesting to read and I have been admiring Cole for most of the series especially in seeing what a good brother he was to Jo--a heroine in book 2. We see in his true element, a talented artist working in a high end tattoo parlor. Now I haven't had the chance to read too many books that take place in a tattoo parlor and I found that Young did a wonderful job in writing up the set up of this story. Our heroine, is looking for a job and finds a secretarial job and runs into Cole, a boy she once knew when she was a teenager and felt a connection. But Shannon tends to think she has the worst luck in men, they tend to all be very toxic and betray her in one form or another and is estranged from her family. At first she makes a certain assumption about Cole, that he is like all the other men she has been with previously. Which causes some intense tension and our heroine has to prove to Cole how sorry she really is. Because Shannon soon realizes that Cole isn't the bad boy that he appears to be and appearances can be deceiving. But this isn't the first time that Shannon makes a mistake with Cole. And she will be faced with a difficult decision either her family or the man she loves?
You’re worth every bad thing that’s ever happened to me, because going through them led me to you.
What I found simply wonderful about this book that made the biggest impression on me was our hero. He was definitely dreamy and even though he is a bit of a playboy at times, he also is a good one, a true keeper. He also isn't as cocky as you would expect. In fact, our of all the heroes, this author has written, Cole is probably my favorite to read so far. There is something so compelling about his character, and how true he is to himself. I truly adored the changes we see in our heroine. She has been burned so much in her life, and my heart really broke for her situation. So I tried not to judge her too harshly. What I respected about the way her character was written is how realistic she is. She really grows and learns to fight for herself and what she really wants in life and I just admired that. And she learns some tough lessons but I did like that she comes through for the reader and you learn to become endeared by her character.
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"Make love to me, darling," he whispered, tracing the outline of her lips with his tongue "Love me with all your heart."
I am a huge fan of Cassie Edwards, her stories are always so classic and I love every moment. Edwards has a certain writing style that is captivating and draws your attention to the story without letting go. I was able to obtain a copy of Eden's Promise through Open Library. So I put it under Paperback in the form I read it, because its kinda both a paperback and e book. Let me explain, with open library, these aren't e book editions of the book. They are scanned directly from the book. So you see the real pages, the color of the pages, and its almost like reading a paperback. For those of you, who haven't tried Open Library, you are missing out. There is so much selection especially if you like Zebra historical's as I do. There is quite a few of Edward's book on this site, way more than you will find in the Nook or Kindle store. So I always take advantage of it, since Cassie is one of my favorites to read from. I usually have read her for her Native American Historical's, but I have found her other stories that aren't Indian based, are brilliantly done.
Now I will do a short summary of this book, since the synopsis doesn't exactly tell much about it. It actually begins with Zach and Eden meeting on a dirt road, where Eden's wheel on her buggy gets damaged, Zach helps her take her into town to get the wheel fixed. Instantly a spark ignites, and they are instantly drawn to each other. We see a strong bond that quickly forms (and very fast I would say). Zach is a ex pirate, who is trying to make a new life for himself, and when he sees Eden, he knows he is far gone. He falls mad for her quickly, and starts to court her, even though he knows there is a danger to himself in being caught as a pirate. Eden has no men interests until Zach comes into her life, and even though she doesn't know if she can trust him, she wants to. Then Zach gets into a spot of trouble, and in order to free himself from Jail, he must agree to kill his old mentor, friend and Pirate; Captain Jack. He reluctantly agrees knowing he can never have a normal life until he does. Then he finds Eden bound and gagged in the hold of his ship, and must reveal the whole truth to her. With a dangerous mission he is torn between keeping her at his side, or returning her to safety.
Zach is actually a good hearted man, and I found myself drawn to him instantly. He is kind and generous and doesn't resemble the "Pirate males" you usually get familiar with, in historical romances. He was sold into becoming a pirate, and then decided he wanted more out of his life. He wants a family, and to have some land and to live out his life in the area he grew up in. I enjoyed seeing how gentle and understanding he is with Eden, but when the situation calls for it, he can be tough as nails. He is protective and possessive at times, but in a way that isn't smothering. A found it to be a good balance for Zach. Eden I liked for the most part, she could have had a bit more spine and been a bit more self aware. I did like how she responds to Zach. Their connection starts fast, a little too fast. The one thing I didn't like is how they were "in love" at the beginning of the story. I like a steady progressive plot towards a romance, and I don't mind the "love at first sight" but this story had it a bit too hurried for my taste. I didn't really feel their connection until late in the book, when conflict escalates quite a bit and puts a challenge to the characters.
Overall I found myself enjoying this story quite a bit. And even though there is the main love story between Zach and Eden, there are two sub plot love stories as well, which I felt fit nicely into the story. It didn't seem to be overly much, and with this being a stand alone novel, it worked better than I thought it would when I started it. There is a solid development in the plot, about 1/3 way through, and it starts to really grab your attention. I really liked the way the author puts "Lighthouses" into the mix, and you can tell she has done her homework (I have a love for lighthouses) It brought a unique and intellectual aspect to it a bit :) Its a easy and quick read, but in my opinion there could have been a bit more of substance in the first part of the book. A fun dramatic love story that equaled to a enjoyable read that is one you can enjoy in this beautiful summer season.
I am a huge fan of Cassie Edwards, her stories are always so classic and I love every moment. Edwards has a certain writing style that is captivating and draws your attention to the story without letting go. I was able to obtain a copy of Eden's Promise through Open Library. So I put it under Paperback in the form I read it, because its kinda both a paperback and e book. Let me explain, with open library, these aren't e book editions of the book. They are scanned directly from the book. So you see the real pages, the color of the pages, and its almost like reading a paperback. For those of you, who haven't tried Open Library, you are missing out. There is so much selection especially if you like Zebra historical's as I do. There is quite a few of Edward's book on this site, way more than you will find in the Nook or Kindle store. So I always take advantage of it, since Cassie is one of my favorites to read from. I usually have read her for her Native American Historical's, but I have found her other stories that aren't Indian based, are brilliantly done.
Now I will do a short summary of this book, since the synopsis doesn't exactly tell much about it. It actually begins with Zach and Eden meeting on a dirt road, where Eden's wheel on her buggy gets damaged, Zach helps her take her into town to get the wheel fixed. Instantly a spark ignites, and they are instantly drawn to each other. We see a strong bond that quickly forms (and very fast I would say). Zach is a ex pirate, who is trying to make a new life for himself, and when he sees Eden, he knows he is far gone. He falls mad for her quickly, and starts to court her, even though he knows there is a danger to himself in being caught as a pirate. Eden has no men interests until Zach comes into her life, and even though she doesn't know if she can trust him, she wants to. Then Zach gets into a spot of trouble, and in order to free himself from Jail, he must agree to kill his old mentor, friend and Pirate; Captain Jack. He reluctantly agrees knowing he can never have a normal life until he does. Then he finds Eden bound and gagged in the hold of his ship, and must reveal the whole truth to her. With a dangerous mission he is torn between keeping her at his side, or returning her to safety.
Zach is actually a good hearted man, and I found myself drawn to him instantly. He is kind and generous and doesn't resemble the "Pirate males" you usually get familiar with, in historical romances. He was sold into becoming a pirate, and then decided he wanted more out of his life. He wants a family, and to have some land and to live out his life in the area he grew up in. I enjoyed seeing how gentle and understanding he is with Eden, but when the situation calls for it, he can be tough as nails. He is protective and possessive at times, but in a way that isn't smothering. A found it to be a good balance for Zach. Eden I liked for the most part, she could have had a bit more spine and been a bit more self aware. I did like how she responds to Zach. Their connection starts fast, a little too fast. The one thing I didn't like is how they were "in love" at the beginning of the story. I like a steady progressive plot towards a romance, and I don't mind the "love at first sight" but this story had it a bit too hurried for my taste. I didn't really feel their connection until late in the book, when conflict escalates quite a bit and puts a challenge to the characters.
Overall I found myself enjoying this story quite a bit. And even though there is the main love story between Zach and Eden, there are two sub plot love stories as well, which I felt fit nicely into the story. It didn't seem to be overly much, and with this being a stand alone novel, it worked better than I thought it would when I started it. There is a solid development in the plot, about 1/3 way through, and it starts to really grab your attention. I really liked the way the author puts "Lighthouses" into the mix, and you can tell she has done her homework (I have a love for lighthouses) It brought a unique and intellectual aspect to it a bit :) Its a easy and quick read, but in my opinion there could have been a bit more of substance in the first part of the book. A fun dramatic love story that equaled to a enjoyable read that is one you can enjoy in this beautiful summer season.
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Egomaniac is a sexy, make you see stars type of romance. It's a story that is crazy fun, full of barrels of laughs and highs and lows and real emotion with enough sexy times hot enough to make you want to tackle your partner!! :)
I had such a blast with this book and such a treasure to be found in Audible's Romance Package and I just didn't want to put this book away even when I had to. I just had the most delicious experience listening to this story that took that seat out from under me with this dreamy romance that I wished I could be a real part of. That is how real this story feels to the reader. This delicious story begins with a great scene between these howl with laughter key players:
Drew and Emerie first meet when Drew has come home from a long vacation, only to find a strange woman, accusing him of taking her office in HIS office. Obviously, something weird has happened and Emerie has been scammed, but Drew takes great delight in the dilemma before him. (below is one of my favorite scenes)
Before he knows it, he is helping get out of the mess, file a complaint and when learning that she has a warrant out for her from many years previous, he helps her out of it. Then he offers her a chance to share his "office"with him and she helps him out with office matters.
Even though Drew is a only "casual sex" man there is something different about Emerie. A young woman that makes him want to stare at her ass, but also wants to treat her to her favorite take out or make her laugh or argue with her for the sake of having a good time together. We see this player be not the player that you expect. I liked how these two act on their attraction and there isn't any nonsense drama that the reader has to deal with.
Another aspect that I can guarantee you will fall in love with is the emotional dynamics that become built up in this story that I wasn't expecting. We have a hero that has been burned badly by a woman he once trusted but hurt him in the worst way. Obviously, he isn't the best at learning to trust, but Emerie makes him want to try for the first time. I love how "real" their relationship feel. Seeing how much they enjoy just being together, outside of the bedroom they have great chemistry. Emerie is a heroine that is highly trusting and yes at times she can be a bit naive but honestly, it didn't bother me because she is naive in the good ways. Beliving in the good and honesty of human beings, she wants to trust in the good side of the human race.
I do love seeing how they help each other without realizing it. And boy their careers definitely match their history and personalities. Drew works as a lawyer and helps men divorce their wives and is very cynical about marriage and relationship. Ironically once he meets Emerie, he viewpoint on life really changes here. It happens slowly but I love that he doesn't take his history out on Emerie on purpose. Emerie is a therapist who helps couples with their marriages and aids them in reconnecting. So she starts to learn the reality of "false hope" and that not all relationships work out in the end. But seeing the different in their relationship really shows how they balance each other out in the good ways and the bad too.
Then we have a twist that deals with Drew's son and I know that having children in romances aren't for everyone, but I am telling you that this aspect will work for you. We see a different side to Drew with him being a father. And seeing him learn some truths about his son, and their relationship was truly heartbreaking at times. But we see so much more depth to his character, and we see how he changes from being a father and how it motivates him in the good ways and I love how devoted he is to his son and what he is willing to sacrifice to this darling curious little boy that steals your heart.
Overall Egomaniac was one of the best reads in contemporary for quite a long while, a story that is engaging and laughs your pants off, a book that will leave you with a smile and fond memories of this darling family that comes together and becomes stronger!!Sexy and filled with tasty delights!!
Egomaniac is a sexy, make you see stars type of romance. It's a story that is crazy fun, full of barrels of laughs and highs and lows and real emotion with enough sexy times hot enough to make you want to tackle your partner!! :)
I had such a blast with this book and such a treasure to be found in Audible's Romance Package and I just didn't want to put this book away even when I had to. I just had the most delicious experience listening to this story that took that seat out from under me with this dreamy romance that I wished I could be a real part of. That is how real this story feels to the reader. This delicious story begins with a great scene between these howl with laughter key players:
- Drew Jagger, the hero of the story, is a divorce lawyer, he is a dirty talker, sexy as sin but has a heart of gold that few people ever see from him. He is a devoted single father, who has been burned badly and has some personal issues to work through. He is loyal though and likes to keep things private.
- Emerie Rose, our feisty heroine, who is driven, devoted to her career but is kind and caring and a bit prudish at times. But she is so thoughtful but do not cross her because she will fight you will everything she has.
Drew and Emerie first meet when Drew has come home from a long vacation, only to find a strange woman, accusing him of taking her office in HIS office. Obviously, something weird has happened and Emerie has been scammed, but Drew takes great delight in the dilemma before him. (below is one of my favorite scenes)
She pushed one and proceeded to report the crime of entering one’s own office. “I’d like to report a robbery.”
“Robbery?” I arched an eyebrow and looked around. A lone folding chair and crappy metal folding chair were the only furniture in the entire space. “What exactly am I stealing? Your winning personality?”
She amended her complaint to the police. “A breaking and entering. I’d like to report a breaking and entering at 575 Park Avenue.” She paused and listening. “No, I don’t think he’s armed. But he’s big. Really big. At least six feet. Maybe bigger.”
I smirked. “And strong. Don’t forget to tell them I’m strong, too. Want me to flex for you?”
Before he knows it, he is helping get out of the mess, file a complaint and when learning that she has a warrant out for her from many years previous, he helps her out of it. Then he offers her a chance to share his "office"with him and she helps him out with office matters.
Even though Drew is a only "casual sex" man there is something different about Emerie. A young woman that makes him want to stare at her ass, but also wants to treat her to her favorite take out or make her laugh or argue with her for the sake of having a good time together. We see this player be not the player that you expect. I liked how these two act on their attraction and there isn't any nonsense drama that the reader has to deal with.
I think your body likes me, and your head is fighting it. The two should fight it out like adults—naked in the bedroom with me
Another aspect that I can guarantee you will fall in love with is the emotional dynamics that become built up in this story that I wasn't expecting. We have a hero that has been burned badly by a woman he once trusted but hurt him in the worst way. Obviously, he isn't the best at learning to trust, but Emerie makes him want to try for the first time. I love how "real" their relationship feel. Seeing how much they enjoy just being together, outside of the bedroom they have great chemistry. Emerie is a heroine that is highly trusting and yes at times she can be a bit naive but honestly, it didn't bother me because she is naive in the good ways. Beliving in the good and honesty of human beings, she wants to trust in the good side of the human race.
I do love seeing how they help each other without realizing it. And boy their careers definitely match their history and personalities. Drew works as a lawyer and helps men divorce their wives and is very cynical about marriage and relationship. Ironically once he meets Emerie, he viewpoint on life really changes here. It happens slowly but I love that he doesn't take his history out on Emerie on purpose. Emerie is a therapist who helps couples with their marriages and aids them in reconnecting. So she starts to learn the reality of "false hope" and that not all relationships work out in the end. But seeing the different in their relationship really shows how they balance each other out in the good ways and the bad too.
Then we have a twist that deals with Drew's son and I know that having children in romances aren't for everyone, but I am telling you that this aspect will work for you. We see a different side to Drew with him being a father. And seeing him learn some truths about his son, and their relationship was truly heartbreaking at times. But we see so much more depth to his character, and we see how he changes from being a father and how it motivates him in the good ways and I love how devoted he is to his son and what he is willing to sacrifice to this darling curious little boy that steals your heart.
Being a parent is a choice, not a right… Anyone can become a father, but it takes a real dad to love and raise a child as his own.
Overall Egomaniac was one of the best reads in contemporary for quite a long while, a story that is engaging and laughs your pants off, a book that will leave you with a smile and fond memories of this darling family that comes together and becomes stronger!!Sexy and filled with tasty delights!!
Elegant Sins is a unique story and one I wasn’t quite sure about, but after reading the blurb, I decided to take a chance on this dark romance and I really liked it and definitely will be reading more from these duo authors for sure in the near future and excited for book two to be released very soon here. But in this story, we have a circumstance of sacrifice in order to reach your dreams. What I really liked was the commitment especially the heroine had throughout these tests of trials that she especially has to go through. Our hero is tested, but in different ways than she is. Its on a more extreme level for her, but I admired her strength and courage to go through it despite the negative that bears on her shoulders. And she conquers them all and finds a love she never expected to find. I love a great cinderella telling and this one was charming and HOT in every way. But despite the level of sexual scenes that are displayed throughout the story, we also see a rich emotional connection that is built between the two here and loved seeing it.
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In this stunning tale of a dark romance, which brings together the most unlikely pair you ever see in a romance. But two people that both suffer from dark pasts and help each other in finding their happy ever after.
Our key players that make you fall in love quite instantly are:
In this stunning tale of a dark romance, which brings together the most unlikely pair you ever see in a romance. But two people that both suffer from dark pasts and help each other in finding their happy ever after.
Our key players that make you fall in love quite instantly are:
• Martinez, our dark hero, who is the most feared of all men and leader of a mob family and is also known as the “El Diablo” or the Devil. He has had to learn to love and lose the important parts of himself. But one woman will make him want to fight for love and keep it.
• Lexi, our courageous heroine, a dancer and has grown up being abused in the worst ways.
We have a story that works through your emotions in some of the worst and BEST ways imaginable. I truly couldn’t get enough of this book and man was it difficult at times. These two really worked me through the ringer and yet I wouldn’t have it any other way. What we see is a romance that isn’t light and funny, Its dark and at times twisted but pulls you in and I just didn’t want it to end. I was really swept away by our hero especially in the first third of the book. We really get to see what he goes through. Being raised as the mob boss’s son, losing parts of himself and seeing his closeness to his mother and sister despite what he has been forced to become by his father. Then we see him fall in love, and lose it all with a horrible twist of fate.
I was pulled instantly to his character, seeing how intense his life was and seeing how he couldn’t stop losing the people that meant the most to him or the way he is betrayed in the worst way by the one person he trusted. Then Lexi comes into his life, like a breath of fresh air, and we see him change only for the better. Now it’s not perfect and their relationship is full of drama at times but I was really pulled into their bond. Now our heroine hasn’t exactly had a life of daisies and roses. She has had her own troubles, but what you come to admire about this character is how strong she really is. I mean its like nothing can get her down, no matter what she goes through, she just faces it and finds the “best” part of herself to keep going forward. She stands up to our hero on a constant basis and I enjoyed seeing the way that they come together.
I will admit that this story didn’t turn out the way that I expected, the turn of events that come into play are unexpected and throw the reader a whirlwind but I had a fun time joining them along in their adventure. What sets this book apart from many other dark romances, is the raw emotion that just pours out of this story in such a “real” way. I honestly never knew what was going to happen even on an emotional level. Right when I thought I have Martinez and Lexi figured out….something else would happen to blow everything out of the water of what I expected or knew about these two. Their road isn’t easy and we see them go through years of their life, figuring out what is the most important and how to learn to fight for it and find their happy ever after that they both deserved to have after what they really go through.
What was one of the most important aspects of this story though was the growth these characters suffer through. They definitely have quite a few growing pains, and certain circumstances really throw them a curveball but it was quite some complex dynamics seeing them muddle through these “mountains” and somehow finding their way back to each other when you least expect it. Definitely amazed with the talent of this author and what a story this book punches through. I am a bit overwhelmed in the story that I just read but loved nonetheless.
Overall I found El Diablo to be a stunning story that swept me away into a world I didn’t want to let go of. BREATHTAKINGLY REAL!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from St. Martins Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Eight Simple Rules For Dating A Dragon is a story that I have been looking forward to for a YEAR and so to say that I was excited is putting it mildly. Now I won't say that I loved this book as much as book two (which is still my favorite book this author has ever written) but there was so MUCH goodness in this book. And quite frankly, I was so mad that this book was only 400 pages...it honestly just wasn't long enough for me, I mean seriously people...I breezed through this book in like 2 hours....I never read that quickly but I definitely read this one in one sitting and before I realized it the story was over and I didn't want it to be.
So in book two So I Married A Sorcerer we get glimpses of the dragons and the realm that they live in, which they are super secretive anyway. But I was so intrigued by these "dragons" and most especially their general and future heir Silas Dravenko. This book starts out with our heroine who is Gwenmore. She is Elf and as such she is looked at by main with disdain and really dislike as a whole. But somehow she is next to find her "husband' according to her group of friends and adopted sisters. But she doesn't really believe in it. While playing with Luciana's young daughter, who gets kidnapped by a real fire breathing dragon, Gwenmore does what she has to and jumps a ride with the dragon. And when he kicks her off and she almost is killed, she is saved by another dragon, one that she can understand and one she bonds with on an intimate level without realizing who he really is.
They are taken to the realm of the dragons and the people who live in this hidden kingdom. A kingdom that has a King and Queen that are mentally disturbed and being poisoned. The people are suffering from a curse that has lasted for hundreds of years. But Gwenmore is a healer, and she knows the sciences of medicines and believes that she can help including helping them evade a war with Luciana and her husband.
It soon becomes apparent that the castle is full of dangers especially with an enemy that is poisoning the royal family and it is up to Gwen to discover why and who and to help put a stop at it so the country can heal from this "curse" that is plaguing them. But they meet up with the "circle of the five" including the chameleon they fought in book two but never defeated. And the man he takes the image and station of is NOT someone you would ever expect. I was really intrigued with this side plot of danger and intrigue that this "circle" is playing.
We learn more about Gwen's true heritage and that she is more than what she seems to be. And we see why she truly feels at home in the realm of the dragons and that her "dragon" is the man she is falling for, the future king of the realm of the Dragons. And boy the chemistry between these two is powerful. I just loved their sweet slow burning connecting that builds in this story. It honestly wasn't quite what I expected, since its slow but intense at the same time. You just become hooked on their romance and seeing their story just bloom in its own way.
We see how much this country has been suffering for so many years with fear in their hearts all the time, and I love that once Gwen enters into it, things just start to fall into place and we see some healing that begins. Especially when we learn about her parents and see her kind and gentle spirit just learn to blossom and grow stronger in this story. I felt such a kinship to the characters here and seeing both Silas and Gwen grow together and also start to rebuild a country that needs some true joy and healing. They make such a great team and work so in sync without even realizing that they are doing it.
I found this story to be a breathtaking installment into a world that is captivating and thrilling in the only way that Sparks can pen a tale....a TRUE JEWEL!!
Eight Simple Rules For Dating A Dragon is a story that I have been looking forward to for a YEAR and so to say that I was excited is putting it mildly. Now I won't say that I loved this book as much as book two (which is still my favorite book this author has ever written) but there was so MUCH goodness in this book. And quite frankly, I was so mad that this book was only 400 pages...it honestly just wasn't long enough for me, I mean seriously people...I breezed through this book in like 2 hours....I never read that quickly but I definitely read this one in one sitting and before I realized it the story was over and I didn't want it to be.
So in book two So I Married A Sorcerer we get glimpses of the dragons and the realm that they live in, which they are super secretive anyway. But I was so intrigued by these "dragons" and most especially their general and future heir Silas Dravenko. This book starts out with our heroine who is Gwenmore. She is Elf and as such she is looked at by main with disdain and really dislike as a whole. But somehow she is next to find her "husband' according to her group of friends and adopted sisters. But she doesn't really believe in it. While playing with Luciana's young daughter, who gets kidnapped by a real fire breathing dragon, Gwenmore does what she has to and jumps a ride with the dragon. And when he kicks her off and she almost is killed, she is saved by another dragon, one that she can understand and one she bonds with on an intimate level without realizing who he really is.
They are taken to the realm of the dragons and the people who live in this hidden kingdom. A kingdom that has a King and Queen that are mentally disturbed and being poisoned. The people are suffering from a curse that has lasted for hundreds of years. But Gwenmore is a healer, and she knows the sciences of medicines and believes that she can help including helping them evade a war with Luciana and her husband.
It soon becomes apparent that the castle is full of dangers especially with an enemy that is poisoning the royal family and it is up to Gwen to discover why and who and to help put a stop at it so the country can heal from this "curse" that is plaguing them. But they meet up with the "circle of the five" including the chameleon they fought in book two but never defeated. And the man he takes the image and station of is NOT someone you would ever expect. I was really intrigued with this side plot of danger and intrigue that this "circle" is playing.
We learn more about Gwen's true heritage and that she is more than what she seems to be. And we see why she truly feels at home in the realm of the dragons and that her "dragon" is the man she is falling for, the future king of the realm of the Dragons. And boy the chemistry between these two is powerful. I just loved their sweet slow burning connecting that builds in this story. It honestly wasn't quite what I expected, since its slow but intense at the same time. You just become hooked on their romance and seeing their story just bloom in its own way.
"My love for you will burn like an eternal flame deep in my chest"
She stifled a laugh. That sounds like a bad case of heartburn.
"I heard that." A puff of smoke shot from his nostrils as he huffed. "You think it's easy to confess how much I love you? You give it a try. "
We see how much this country has been suffering for so many years with fear in their hearts all the time, and I love that once Gwen enters into it, things just start to fall into place and we see some healing that begins. Especially when we learn about her parents and see her kind and gentle spirit just learn to blossom and grow stronger in this story. I felt such a kinship to the characters here and seeing both Silas and Gwen grow together and also start to rebuild a country that needs some true joy and healing. They make such a great team and work so in sync without even realizing that they are doing it.
Rule number eight: There is only one mate for a dragon, and he will love her forever.
I found this story to be a breathtaking installment into a world that is captivating and thrilling in the only way that Sparks can pen a tale....a TRUE JEWEL!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Brishen and Ildiko have found a beautiful love in the midst of an arranged marriage. Both lower casts of their families, they united in a way no one could have foreseen. Its been a year of passion, adventure and finding joy with each other. But that is all about to come crashing down upon them with Brishen's mother's latest schemes. The shadow queen of Haradis, through a bid for more power unleashes the worst enemy upon their world. Demons who crave blood and magic and nothing can stop them. The demons are destroying everything in their path....every man, woman and child. The royal family is slaughtered all except for Brishen. When he learns of the destruction, and that his home and his marriage is about to be threatened, he will do everything in his power to keep everyone he loves safe. Brishen will need to make alliances with the other two kingdoms, and there will be four of them that will need to become Wraith Kings, the only ones that will have the kind of power to force the hord of demons back to their realm and close the opening between their worlds. But Ildiko might have to make a difficult decision that could cost her the love of her life forever.....Will Brishen and Ildiko be able to defeat this evil enemy and find a way back to each other for good?
In Book one we saw the chemistry, and the slow burn romance that developed between Brishen and Ildiko. A arranged marriage to bring together an alliance. In Book two we see this pair and how their love is tested in brutal ways almost. First off, Brishen's whole family has been killed and he is the King now of the Kai. Which adds a certain dilemma for Brishen and Ildiko. The kai would never fully accept Ildiko as their queen, she is human and unable to have children with a Kai. Ildiko knows the risks, and she knows what would be good for Brishen in the long run, and is willing to give him up if necessary. However Brishen (man do I love this hero) he refuses to give her up.
Yep....he rocks!! He doesn't let what other think or feel stand in the way of the woman he refuses to let go of just because she can't bear his children. He is content to have her and only her. And Ildiko hurts him in the process of all this, which was quite heartbreaking at times. Because in the midst of all that they have to face, these two need to work through their differences, because they have no idea if their plan will be successful or not. Now the story gets really intense when Brishen and the three other men become "wraith kings" what a unique twist this is!! And what a teaser the author gives us in the end here. The story we are given here with Eidolon is simply fantastic, and I have so much love for this story. I love Brishen and Ildiko, their relationship is so strong and has a cozy feel to it with some powerful chemistry between them. I love seeing their relationship become even stronger and grow!! We get to see some great chemistry between Anhoset (Brishen's cousin) and Severin---now these two are explosive. And I am excited to see what Draven does with them in book 3!
WHAT A cover!! Just as beautiful as the first book. I love the pose here, almost as if they are breathing each other in. A perfect representation of this amazing couple.
Eidolon is a story that is vibrant and real and keeps the reader fascinated from beginning to end!! It has a charm to the romance, adrenalin surge to the action and a action packed adventure of a ride you don't want to miss your ticket on!!! INTOXICATING!!
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Summary
Brishen and Ildiko have found a beautiful love in the midst of an arranged marriage. Both lower casts of their families, they united in a way no one could have foreseen. Its been a year of passion, adventure and finding joy with each other. But that is all about to come crashing down upon them with Brishen's mother's latest schemes. The shadow queen of Haradis, through a bid for more power unleashes the worst enemy upon their world. Demons who crave blood and magic and nothing can stop them. The demons are destroying everything in their path....every man, woman and child. The royal family is slaughtered all except for Brishen. When he learns of the destruction, and that his home and his marriage is about to be threatened, he will do everything in his power to keep everyone he loves safe. Brishen will need to make alliances with the other two kingdoms, and there will be four of them that will need to become Wraith Kings, the only ones that will have the kind of power to force the hord of demons back to their realm and close the opening between their worlds. But Ildiko might have to make a difficult decision that could cost her the love of her life forever.....Will Brishen and Ildiko be able to defeat this evil enemy and find a way back to each other for good?
Plot and Story Line
In Book one we saw the chemistry, and the slow burn romance that developed between Brishen and Ildiko. A arranged marriage to bring together an alliance. In Book two we see this pair and how their love is tested in brutal ways almost. First off, Brishen's whole family has been killed and he is the King now of the Kai. Which adds a certain dilemma for Brishen and Ildiko. The kai would never fully accept Ildiko as their queen, she is human and unable to have children with a Kai. Ildiko knows the risks, and she knows what would be good for Brishen in the long run, and is willing to give him up if necessary. However Brishen (man do I love this hero) he refuses to give her up.
"Privilege," she said gently, "gives the crown its shine. Duty give it its weight. It's because you are no king that you can't do as you wish. The person you are - honorable, brave - will do what's required."
"I'll abdicate."
Her knees buckled at this declaration, and this time her fingers dug into his forearm. "Oh my gods, Brishen. You can't abdicate! You'll plunge this country into civil war."
He snatched her to him, and her feet cleared the floor for a second time. "I will not give you up," he vowed between clenched teeth. "I will suffer the ritual, gladly. Let it rip me apart and put me back together again. I will rob my people of their magic and fight the galla. I will not renounce my wife." He shook against her, burying his face in her neck. "Don't leave me, Ildiko," he implored. "The burden is only bearable because you're here."
Yep....he rocks!! He doesn't let what other think or feel stand in the way of the woman he refuses to let go of just because she can't bear his children. He is content to have her and only her. And Ildiko hurts him in the process of all this, which was quite heartbreaking at times. Because in the midst of all that they have to face, these two need to work through their differences, because they have no idea if their plan will be successful or not. Now the story gets really intense when Brishen and the three other men become "wraith kings" what a unique twist this is!! And what a teaser the author gives us in the end here. The story we are given here with Eidolon is simply fantastic, and I have so much love for this story. I love Brishen and Ildiko, their relationship is so strong and has a cozy feel to it with some powerful chemistry between them. I love seeing their relationship become even stronger and grow!! We get to see some great chemistry between Anhoset (Brishen's cousin) and Severin---now these two are explosive. And I am excited to see what Draven does with them in book 3!
The Cover
WHAT A cover!! Just as beautiful as the first book. I love the pose here, almost as if they are breathing each other in. A perfect representation of this amazing couple.
Overall View
Eidolon is a story that is vibrant and real and keeps the reader fascinated from beginning to end!! It has a charm to the romance, adrenalin surge to the action and a action packed adventure of a ride you don't want to miss your ticket on!!! INTOXICATING!!
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen,” he whispered into her hair. “Who was loved by Ildiko.”
Click On Cover For Buy Link
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This was such a fun little snippet into the Guild Hunter series. And seeing a scene between Elena and Aodhan, so hilarious.