What's on My Radar? Episode 4

DARK HARVEST by Anitra Lynn McLeod

Releases April 27, 2010

Genre: Erotic Fantasy Romance

To be a Harvester is to exist with pain that should be pleasure and desire bound by duty. Until one who can spark a change meets the perfect mate. Now he needs only to convince her-one shattering climax at a time...

Harvester Sterlave of Gant knows his mission: initiate all the virgins of the season and choose a bondmate from among them. The one he selects is perfect, both physically and politically-she is, after all, the empress's daughter. Kasmiri, however, has other ideas. She wanted to be chosen by Sterlave's best friend, Chur, who instead rebelled by selecting a mere servant girl! Kasmiri knows she now must submit to Sterlave-although she doesn't have to like it...

But Kasmiri soon realizes she more than likes Sterlave's sensual attentions. A man like no other, Sterlave is a warrior who satisfies her deepest physical needs, even as he strives to win her heart...

Thoughts: I've never read or heard of this author before, but the cover grabbed my eye and then the blub stole my undivided attention.


THE MAN WHO LOVED PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: A MODERN LOVE STORY WITH A JANE AUSTEN TWIST by Abigail Reynolds

Releases May 4, 2010

Genre: Contemporary Romance

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE is the quintessential women's novel— but many men love it, too! When marine biologist Cassie Boulton and Calder Westing III, a modern-day Mr. Darcy, share one passionate night by the sea, Cassie thinks she may have found her happy ending. But with devastating secrets from the past and Calder's family determined to keep them apart, Calder tells her about his feelings the only way she'll let him—by rewriting her favorite book, featuring the two of them as Darcy and Elizabeth.

Thoughts: I absolutely love the sound of this novel. A man who loves PRIDE & PREJUDICE? This I gotta read to believe.


TEMPTING A PROPER LADY by Debra Mullins

Releases June 8, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Two years ago, dashing Captain Samuel Breedlove disappeared without a word. But he's resurfaced in London a wealthy man, only to discover his fiancée planning to wed another. Now Samuel needs to restore his good name and expose a villain--and tempting, temptable Cilla seems an ideal accomplice.

Priscilla Burke knows the marriage of her charge, Annabelle Bailey, to the Earl of Raventhorpe must be perfect. It would be madness for her to even consider doing anything that would mar this beautiful day and destroy her fledgling career as a wedding planner. Why then is she so drawn to this irresistible stranger who insists she help him sabotage the impending affair?

But a proper lady’s desire is nothing to toy with. And a man whose character has been questioned cannot allow himself to dream of happily ever after. This not-so-innocent seduction may have unforeseen consequences…

Thoughts: The cover is absolutely striking. I haven't read this author before and while the plot doesn't sound all that original, I can see myself picking it up as an impulse buy.


MY LADY'S PLEASURE by Olivia Quincy

Releases July 6, 2010

Genre: Erotic Historical Romance

Lady Georgiana Vernon, daughter of the Earl of Eastley, and Jeremy Staunton, youngest son of a viscount, have an unconventional relationship-at least for the upper crust in 1895. They meet publicly as friends, and privately as lovers. It's an arrangement that allows Georgiana the sexual freedom she desires-and continues to indulge in-as a guest at Penfield, where the most sought-after names in the country gather for Lord Laughlin's annual masquerade ball.

Then Georgiana initiates a torrid affair with the sexy landscape architect working at Penfield. She sees it as nothing more than a harmless but pleasurable indulgence. But when the relationship is discovered she becomes the target of increasingly malicious threats. During the night of the masquerade ball, these intimidations will come to a dangerous head, as the men in Georgiana's life reveal their own secret desires.

Thoughts: Again, another book that caught my eye with its cover. The blurb sounds more like an erotic thriller than romance but its definitely got my attention.


INSATIABLE by Lauren Dane

Releases July 6, 2010

Genre: Erotic Futuristic Romance

Desire is the most dangerous sensation of all.

With tensions between the Federation and Imperial ‘Verses rising, one woman may hold the key to victory. The dangerous mission to smuggle her out of Imperial Territory falls to Daniel Haws and his team, the ultra secret Phantom Corps. This elite squad of the Federation Military is the only one trusted and skilled enough to remove her from under the watchful eye of her father, the Supreme Commander of the Imperial ‘Verses.

Carina is used to wearing a mask. Her father and his men think her little more than a pretty prize to be won by a man more ruthless than the rest. When he announces his intention to marry her to one of his henchmen, a man known for his cruelty, Carina knows she has to move as soon as possible to get out. But getting secret information to the Federation has served her well for years and she appeals to them for help.

She expected rescue from a man who’d been her enemy. But she wasn’t prepared for just how intense her attraction to Daniel Haws would be. Born as adversaries into different ranks, and on the run for their lives, they now need each other to survive–by holding on to the only thing they have in common: a growing desire that is dangerous, irresistible, and insatiable…

Thoughts: Hello! Is that not the hottest cover? Nuff said.

Review: VELVET HAVEN by Sophie Renwick

Review: VELVET HAVEN by Sophie Renwick

The Immortals of Annwyn Book One

Releases March 2nd

Hidden from mortals for all eternity, Annwyn, the Otherworld, is home to shapeshifters, wraiths and dragons. But in a nightclub called Velvet Haven, desire brings humans and immortals together…

Built atop the mystic passageway to Annwyn, the gothic nightclub Velvet Haven has seen its share of lost souls—both mortal and immortal. It is here that Bran, the shapeshifter king of the Sidhe, searches for his brother, who is ensnared by a centuries-old curse. When a vision foretells his own death, he knows his time to find Carden is running out.

For help he must turn to Mairi, a mortal woman with an unusual aura. Bran has never liked humans, other than using their sexual pleasure to restore his magic energy. But with Mairi everything is different. Her lush curves and teasing caresses enflame him like no Sidhe has ever done. He has no idea that the woman he’s falling for holds the key to his destruction – or his salvation.

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance

Single Title/Series: VELVET HAVEN is book one in the Immortals of Annwyn Series. However, there's a prequel novella, "Yuletide Enchantment", in the A HIGHLANDER CHRISTMAS Anthology but it doesn't necessarily need to be read in order to understand or enjoy VH.

Cover Thoughts: The more I read VELVET HAVEN the more I connected with the cover. Bran, the hero, is portrayed to stunning perfection. His intensity, his strong body, the "Matrix"-esque clothes, the tats - all of these things are Bran. The ferocious wind, black clouds and the mansion concealed by ghostly mist, sets the dark tone and ultimately the current reality of the paranormal world where VELVET HAVEN is set.

Why I Read It: I was offered an Advanced Review Copy by Sophie Renwick.

Review:

VELVET HAVEN is the Black Dagger Brotherhood meets "The Matrix" and the showdown happens at an erotic fetish club catering to an exclusive clientele that's renowned for satisfying every physical delight known to mortals and immortals alike. Whether you're a naughty school girl, sexed-up metal head, or leather-wearing hulk, all walks of life are welcome. And while mortals think they're the only beings to own the night, immortals emerge from the shadows to partake in their misguided offerings. It's a culmination of leather-clad sin and gothic mysticism tossed with dark sex magic and ancient deities that aren't the least bit chaste. Basically its a chocolate covered erotic fantasy just waiting to be read and I feel like I've been waiting an eternity to enter this mysteriously delicious club known in both worlds as Velvet Haven. Let me give you taste.

It would be the understate of the year to deem the men of Sophie Renwick's VELVET HAVEN as brawny. These guys are huge - larger than life really - each with a magnetism of rhythmically pulsing erotic magical powers, beckoning the enamored like the lulling beauty of a Venus Flytrap. However, in this case, one doesn't mind being devoured. The king of these luscious hunks of man-meat is Bran, King of the Night Sidhe and co-ruler of Annwyn, and he houses a wonderfully dark and festering soul. Over a century ago he sacrificed his eternal happiness for another and in doing so, he became shackled to a goddess he hates and a couple of nasty curses, all of which fan the flames of his hatred for both mortals and immortals alike. Now, with the inability to harness and create the power he was born with, Bran must feed off the energy of the beings he despises most: Humans. Human females to be more exact. To top off his dark existence, Bran has recently been plagued by visions, visions of his own murder by one female mortal that's about to turn his entire world upside down.

But Bran's personal problems aren't the only recent happenings to plague his black existence. Wrapped up his own bleak affairs, Bran has shirked in his duty to protect the world of Annwyn and in doing so, has carelessly allowed dark magic to seep past the veil that separates immortals from the mortals of Earth. Recently, victims have been found gruesomely marked with dark magic and angelic symbols alike. The bodies were meant to be found as a warning and as a billboard, announcing that a new power is growing with alarming force. Its also the catalyst that forces Bran to put aside his own endeavors and protect the world he has neglected. First place to start: Velvet Haven. Residing literally on top of the very gate that opens from the mortal world into Annwyn, its the idyllic location for sinister and deadly magic. Its also the location where Bran meets his delectable murderess.

Mairi MacAuley embodies a piercing intellect, distrusting skepticism and an overall prickly nature that keeps nearly all people at a distance. Conversely, she's fiercely protective of the very few she loves which really only consists of her friend Rowan and one large and lovable Irish wolfhound named Clancy. For these two, Mairi would gladly walk through Hell and back. Its a trait that isn't necessarily mentioned but rather one that's intrinsically felt by the reader. You just know this about Mairi and beyond that, you believe this about Mairi. Sadly, Rowan, Mairi's friend - sister really, is dying and to bring a smile to her face, Mairi agrees to go with her to Velvet Haven despite the fact that she has major reservations about the goth club. Her reluctance isn't unfounded either, especially after a carved up woman landed at the hospital where she works as a nurse mere hours before with possible connections to the mysterious club. Mairi has seen some baffling things pass through the hospital doors in her time, but this particular corpse could ignite a tableau of eternal nightmares if she wasn't made of sterner stuff.

When Bran and Mairi meet, its a moment for females everywhere to rejoice. Immediately taken with Mairi, Bran is frustratingly confused by his effect on her. For the first time in his three centuries, he's unable to melt his human quarry. Instead, he's being grilled on his player antics and it's not until a fallen angel muddles up Mairi's head before he finally gets the chance he's been doggedly trying to capture. Even then, Mairi compels him to talk and it's probably the most words he's spoken to a mortal in his entire lifetime. It's in these moments that Mairi discovers a scintillating mystery in Bran that strangely has her trusting every word falling from his mouth. He's safety personified and while she's never before been the center of some one's universe nor had she thought to be deserving of that type of attention, Mairi finds herself druggingly special in Bran's eyes. On the other hand, Bran sees a surprisingly interesting person in Mairi, one that he's never met or ever thought he would meet. Immediately he's struck by her bravery and her balanced soul but also perplexed by the emotional and physical scars she bears. Such pain she's endured but yet she's also emerged that much stronger for it and it's at this realization that Bran decides that Mairi is too good for him. Too good for his perverse motives which was to have sex with her, restore his energy and leave her as he's done with every other female mortal.

Despite Bran's determination to maintain distance and Mairi's nervous uncertainty, Fate isn't about to let these two go their separate ways. There's a higher plan for them both, one that's being orchestrated by the most unlikely of characters - the fallen angel, Suriel. For the dark plot underfoot doesn't only hope to destroy Annwyn, it wants to crush the mortal world into oblivian as well and there are those that will not allow this to happen. So when dire circumstances and circling enemies force Mairi to face the realization that her instincts had been right along, that magic and immortals do in fact exist, that Bran is her lover and protector, she's finally capable of embracing a previously unknown gift. A gift that will forever link her to Bran, Annwyn and the eventual fall of those those who seek to destroy this magical world and her inhabitants. There's also the pesky business of killing Bran that needs to be dealt with as well...

VELVET HAVEN is a dark and sinfully erotic paranormal romance that has you tumbling head first into a mysterious and complicated world, one that magically stole my reader heart. I do feel compelled to mention, however, that while I very much enjoyed the explicit eroticism, I really would have loved to read more about the world of Annwyn. For how complicated the rules of Annwyn are, Ms. Renwick did an amazing job immersing the reader quickly but there is that want and the tug for more and I happened to feel it.

Bran was an intriguing and deliciously dark hero and his reasons for his darkness are extremely justified which drew immediate sympathy from me. But Bran isn't the only male character in VELVET HAVEN that draws the reader. There's a stunning mosaic of intense men and each one is sexier than the last. One character in particular who stole the show every time he walked on stage was Suriel. As a fallen angel, Suriel is somewhat consumed with trying to get back into God's good graces but in the meantime, he doesn't mind being a bit bad. He's a magnetic character and he tended to overshadow the rest of the cast but trust me, it's no hardship at all to be consumed by Suriel.

As a heroine, Mairi ranks as one of my favorites. Not only did I immediately connect with her strong and guarded personality, but her protectiveness of those she loved was very endearing and I truly believed her capable of that trait. I also fell in love with her amazingly unique gift. Unfortunately I can't tell you what that gift is because the unveiling of it is rather special and I don't want to spoil anything but it truly was remarkably original and left me in drop-jawed wonder.

For paranormal readers that love intriguing and complex worlds with the added bonus of explicit eroticism, VELVET HAVEN should not be missed. Its a rich tapestry of dark words and sinful delights that leaves the reader wanting for nothing.

B+

What's On My Radar? Episode 3

Lately, I've been noticing how beautiful the Harlequin Historical Series covers have been looking so I thought I'd post the ones that have really caught my eye.

THE EARL'S FORBIDDEN WARD by Bronwyn Scott

Releases March 1, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Innocent debutante Tessa Branscombe senses that underneath her handsome guardian's cool demeanor there is an intensely passionate nature. The arrogant earl infuriates her—yet makes her want to explore those hidden depths…

Peyton Ramsden, Earl of Dursley, has no time for girls—especially those who are suddenly given over to his care! Miss Tessa Branscombe, in particular, is trouble. She tempts this very proper earl to misbehave—and forbidden fruit always tastes that much sweeter.

Thoughts: While the plot - male guardian falls for his younger female ward - isn't unique, this particular story reads as more sexually aggressive than most.


HIS CALIFORNIAN MISTRESS by Kate Welsh

Releases April 1, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

On board a clipper bound for America's West Coast, British aristocrat Jamie Reynolds is bewitched by a fellow passenger's beauty.

Amber Dodd is sailing away from an unhappy past, embarked on a new adventure. She's traded places with an heiress—the very heiress Jamie is on board to find!

As the San Francisco skyline hoves into view, Amber may not be the woman Jamie set out to discover—but this intriguing governess could just be the one he's spent his whole life searching for….

Thoughts: The plot and location of this story reads so unique and refreshing. It almost has a Titanic feel without, of course, the two hour destruction leading towards a heartbreaking tragedy. ;)


LADY ARABELLA'S SCANDALOUS MARRIAGE by Carole Mortimer

Releases April 1, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

You are cordially invited to the marriage of Darius Wynter, Duke of Carlyne

Dark and dangerous, Darius has a reputation riddled with unsavory rumor…

to

Lady Arabella St. Claire

Headstrong and feisty, yet more innocent than she'll ever admit…

What is Lady Arabella letting herself in for? Sinister whispers surround the death of Darius's first wife—could Arabella be in jeopardy? Or will the infamous duke prove all of society wrong?

One thing's for sure—after the compromising situation that led to this marriage, Arabella will soon discover the exquisite pleasures of the marriage bed….

Thoughts: I really love how the back cover reads for this novel. Already my interest is seriously piqued and I'm very curious to know if the sinister whispers are true.


HIS BORDER BRIDE by Blythe Gifford

Releases May 1, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Royal Rogue: He is the bastard son of an English prince and a Scotswoman. A rebel without a country, he has darkness in his soul.

Innocent Lady: Daughter of a Scottish border lord, she can recite the laws of chivalry, and knows this man has broken every one. But she’s gripped by desire for him—could he be the one to unleash the dangerous urges she’s hidden until now?

Thoughts: I love this cover with the all the plaid and that the female cover model is wearing a wedding dress. Plus the contrast of the rule-breaking hero and a heroine that exudes acute propriety sounds scrumptious.

Images and summaries from Amazon.com

Review: ARCHANGEL'S KISS by Nalini Singh

Review: ARCHANGEL'S KISS by Nalini Singh

Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux wakes from a year-long coma to find herself changed—an angel with wings the colors of midnight and dawn—but her fragile body needs time to heal before she can take flight. Her lover, the stunningly dangerous archangel Raphael, is used to being in control—even when it comes to the woman he considers his own. But Elena has never done well with authority…

They’ve barely begun to understand each other when Raphael receives an invitation to a ball from the archangel Lijuan. To refuse would be a sign of fatal weakness, so Raphael must ready Elena for the flight to Beijing—and to the nightmare that awaits them there. Ancient and without conscience, Lijuan holds a power that lies with the dead. And she has organized the most perfect and most vicious of welcomes for Elena…

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Cover Thoughts: My cover love for ARCHANGEL'S KISS is positively off the charts! Other then the major spoiler, I completely heart this cover and have wasted countless minutes staring at it.

Single Title/Series: ARCHANGEL'S KISS is book TWO in Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series and I strongly suggest that you read this series in order starting with book one, ANGELS' BLOOD.

Why I Read It: This series, hell this author, has continually blown me out of the water with each book she pens. I'm just in complete and utter awe of her. If you haven't read Nalini Singh yet, what the HELL are you waiting for???? Oh yeah, and I bought this book for my own reading pleasure.

My Review:

Spoiler Alert: ARCHANGEL'S KISS is book TWO in the Guild Hunter Series and it would be impossible to review this novel without spoiling its predecessor, ANGELS' BLOOD. If you haven't read ANGELS' BLOOD yet and you're planning to, DO NOT read any farther.

ARCHANGEL'S KISS picks up three days after ANGELS' BLOOD left off. Elena, awakening from a year long coma after nearly dying in an archangel fight to the death, has now become an immortal angel. Kissed with ambrosia, an angel chemical that legend said is only produced when an angel is in love, has turned her into her new angelic form and also leaves little doubt to her archangel's - Raphael's - feelings. Unfortunately, when one of the most power archangels has created you, he also claims you as his eternal possession which grates a bit on Elena's fierce independence. In addition, as the first angel-Made in recorded history, Elena garners both fascination and hatred from the angelic population with neither boding well for Elena's overall survival in this new, cut-throat world.

Comparatively, ARCHANGEL'S KISS has more of fantasy feel than ANGELS' BLOOD in the sense that there was little to no real human involvement. Instead, the reader is immersed deep into the mysterious angel world with eighty-five percent of the novel taking place at The Refuge - an angel stronghold guarding the most precious of angelkind: Their young. High up in an undisclosed mountain range, Elena must learn what is to be an angel both mentally and physically. There's also a lot of emphasis and word time dedicated to Elena's new and beautiful wings. After being human in ANGELS' BLOOD, it's a bit difficult to picture Elena with wings but the constant reminder helps the reader to mentally picture a new Elena, wings and all.

As mentioned above, Elena's incredible uniqueness as the first Made angel has garnered a lot of unwanted attention especially from a very dangerous and very ancient archangel. Lijuan holds the territory of China with her perching almost exclusively at the Forbidden City. In her extremely ancient age, little fascinates Lijuan making Elena a target of deadly interest. Bent on her own amusement, Lijuan invites Raphael and Elena to a ball to be held in honor of Elena's incredible creation along with the unmentioned but expected addition of deadly games. This is, of course, all created with the intent of testing Elena and her strange bond with Raphael. Normally Raphael would have rejected the offer but because Lijuan has evolved in the most gruesome of ways, the Cadre of Ten - the archangels - are curious and they must go to this farce of a ball to discover the extent of Lijuan's deadly extracurricular activities. The fate of mankind and angelkind alike might very well depend on it. With Elena being practically an infant physically wise, she's in great peril as well is Raphael for his unbending love for her has now become his greatest weakness.

Having only two months to learn her new body and how to fly, ARCHANGEL'S KISS jumps right into Elena's angel training as well as her deepening relationship with Raphael. Sexual tension, as ever, is still ramped to a hot and pulsating degree making every touch, every wing stroked against wing, electric. Theirs is a fierce bond between two warriors who are both straining for dominance. While it takes time for Elena to recognize that she's not Raphael's equal in age or strength, she fights to be his equal in their love for each other. Raphael is a being that could easily overpower any one's character - molding and shaping the other until their essence is lost in his magnetism and Elena knows this, feels his powerful will dominating her thoughts until all that's left is her desire to please him. But this is not something either of them wants. Elena vows to Raphael time and again that she'd rather die as Elena then as her shadow and no matter how much Raphael wants Elena to obey him, his heart soars at her fierceness to maintain who she ultimately is at heart. He can only have respect for that and while in the beginning he rebelled greatly against this facet of Elena's personality, Raphael learns boundaries and eventually he learns to trust that she will call him when he's needed.

In addition to Elena's and Raphael's story, there's the full introduction of Raphael's Seven: A select group of angels and vampires that are completely loyal to Raphael. These seven men are incredibly fascinating and each face-off with Elena at some point in the novel, testing her boundaries and really just trying to understand what Raphael sees in her. The Seven are sworn to protect Raphael from both seen and unseen dangers and Elena is high on their list of threats. She's now a profound weakness to their master and even if they die as punishment for killing her, in the eyes of the Seven she'd still be dead.

Here's a quick peek at the Seven: Galen, an angel who probably has the most deadly intent of ending Elena's life. He's lethal with a blade and completely uncompromising. Aodhan, an angel of pure undiluted white who cringes at any touch thus igniting the reader's curiosity as to why he abhors any physical contact. Venom, a deadly vampire who is named appropriately. Made by Neha, Archangel and Queen of Snakes, and Poisons, Venom is a snake in every sense of the word. Dimitri, an ancient vampire with a lusciously sensual scent that arouses Elena very much against her will. As Hunter-born, Elena has an acute sense of smell that surpasses any normal human and apparently carried over to her angelic form thus making Dimitri's scent have a profound effect on her body and therefore resulting in her acute dislike of him. Illium, aka Bluebell, is an angel with striking blue wings and hair with an even more striking body. It's apparent to readers that he's falling in love with Elena which puts his life in grave peril of Raphael's wrath. Lucky for Illium, he's Elena's favorite. Naasir, a member of the Seven that was very briefly mentioned and still very much unknown. Lastly is Jason, an angel spymaster who's wings blend with any shadow and a face that's a tattooed landscape of his ancestors history.

Another briefly mentioned aspect of ANGELS' BLOOD that is fleshed out more thoroughly in ARCHANGEL'S KISS is Elena's past and the gruesome deaths of her two sisters along with the eventual suicide of her mother. With her recent transformation, its possible that previously dark and purposefully forgotten areas of Elena's mind have been jarred awake thus plaguing Elena with dreams soaked in blood. It's also apparent that Lijuan has a deadly intention of using Elena's crippling past against her at the so-called ball. Being further enlightened of Elena's past was very interesting and lends a lot to the development of her character and her unbelievable strength. Elena has looked into the eyes of a mad vampire who destroyed her family and yet she'll not let him take over her soul. Instead, his unwanted presence in her mind only causes her to fight that much harder to survive.

Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter Series is a series that I will be returning to time and again. Its a series where you can raise your expectations high and have them surpassed by this author's incredible imagination.

It's my guess that Singh isn't done with Raphael and Elena and the possibility of her dedicating another Guild Hunter book exclusively to them wouldn't be surprising. There are still areas of their relationship that have yet to be seen and secrets that must still be revealed. Beyond Raphael and Elena, the Seven - the vampires and angels that serve Raphael - have garnered immense interest and I for one am dying to see some of this arrogant lot get smacked around by their eventual match. Sadly for others I can only hope that they are able to find some measure of happiness. Their stories are steeped in such dreaded mystery and are so incredibly heartbreaking that they could very well be simply beyond repair.

Truly, for all you paranormal/urban fantasy lovers out there, the Guild Hunter Series is not one you should miss and if you have these books in your TBR, you gotta move 'em up to the tippy-top!

A-

More review:

The Book Lover Girl: B-
Dear Author: A-
The Book Lush
That's Quenn Bitch to You: A
Touch the Night
Babbling About Books, and More! A
Lurv a la Mode: Four Scoops

Alexandra Hawkins ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE Winner!

Thanks for the awesome turnout, everyone! And a BIG thanks to Alexandra Hawkins for not only providing a copy of ALL NIGHT WITH A ROUGE to giveaway but for also taking the time to respond to comments. I always think its wonderful for an author to do that. ;)

If you haven't checked out Alexandra's website yet, I highly recommend that you do. Its absolutely beautiful and brimming with information about the Lords of Vice.

Congratulations one more time to Alexandra on her debut release!!!

And finally, the winner of ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE is...

BLANCHE!

CONGRATULATIONS!

Blanche, please email Alexandra Hawkins at lordsofvice(at)aol(dot)com to claim your prize.


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Timestamp: 2010-02-12 18:10:27 UTC

What's on My Radar? Episode 2

MOST EAGERLY YOURS by Allison Chase

Releases March 2, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Raised on their uncle's country estate, the four orphaned Sutherland sisters formed a close friendship with the young Princess Victoria. Shortly before her coronation as queen, Victoria asks the sisters to serve her in matters requiring the utmost discretion.

They are to become her secret servants...

Laurel, the eldest, is the first to be called. The Queen is threatened by her jealous cousin, George Fitzclarence, who is known for speaking treason. She asks Laurel to pose as a wealthy widow and use her charms to win George's trust, then find out what he is really plotting. Laurel is prepared for the risks of acting a part, but she encounters an unexpected and formidable obstacle in the Earl of Barenforth--George's friend and a notorious rake, whom Victoria has warned her to avoid...

An undercover agent for the Home Office, Aidan Phillips, Earl of Barensforth, is on the trail of a financial hoax involving alchemy, murder...and George Fitzclarence. When a lovely young widow wanders into his path and turns his well-laid plans on end, he senses she is hiding something. Aidan is no stranger to seduction, or to the wiles of beautiful women. And he intends employing wiles of his own to uncover the lady's secrets...

This novel sounds really good and really refreshing with its unique plot involving Queen Victoria. There are a lot of "gentlemen" fighting for the crown plot types but I love how this one is a group of female spymasers. Girl POWER!



FORBIDDEN PASSION by Rita Herron

Releases March 30, 2010

Genre: Paranormal Romance

SHE SEES HIM IN HER DREAMS...

Fueled by her family's murder years ago, Dr. Marlena Bender has devoted her life to understanding violent criminals. But when a serial killer in this small Southern town starts taking the lives of women in diabolical ways--leaving trophies of his kills on Marlena's doorstep--it all hits too close to home. Terrified, Marlena turns to the only man she can trust...the man who saved her life.

BUT HIS SECRET IS HER WORST NIGHTMARE.

Sheriff Dante Valtrez would move heaven and earth to keep Marlena safe, but he's not the savior she thinks he is. A dark legacy runs through his blood and a dangerous secret lies within him. Now a fierce, hot, ruthless desire draws Dante and Marlena together--as a demonic force from his past threatens to rip them apart, destroying everything they hold dear.

This is book three in The Demonborn series. I haven't read this author before but the cover captivated me followed by the blurb. In a moment of weakness, I can totally see myself buying up this entire series. IBT syndrome - Impulse Buy Tendancy.



HER VAMPIRE HUSBAND by Michele Hauf

Releases April 1, 2010

Genre: Paranormal Romance

An arranged marriage between a werewolf and a vampire.

There will be blood.

She may resist his bite, but she can't resist his charms...

Werewolf princess Blu Masterson won't allow her seductive vampire husband to consummate their marriage with his bite, marking her forever. Alone in a secluded estate with her sworn enemy, Blu curses the marriage arranged to bring their rival nations together, especially since Creed Saint-Pierre calls out to her most feral desires.

When Blu uncovers her pack's secret plot to destroy the vampire nation—and Creed—she is forced to confront her growing feelings for her sexy undead husband. Will she choose the only life she's ever known or accept his vampire bite?

Oooo yeah, I love a good Vampire vs. Werewolf plot. Any UNDERWORLD fans out there?




WICKED INTENTIONS by Elizabeth Hoyt

Releases August 1, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

A MAN CONTROLLED BY HIS DESIRES . . .

Infamous for his wild, sensual needs, Lazarus Huntington, Lord Caire, is searching for a savage killer in St. Giles, London's most notorious slum. Widowed Temperance Dews knows St. Giles like the back of her hand-she's spent a lifetime caring for its inhabitants at the foundling home her family established. Now that home is at risk . . .

A WOMAN HAUNTED BY HER PAST . . .

Caire makes a simple offer-in return for Temperance's help navigating the perilous alleys of St. Giles, he will introduce her to London's high society so that she can find a benefactor for the home. But Temperance may not be the innocent she seems, and what begins as cold calculation soon falls prey to a passion that neither can control-one that may well destroy them both.

Is that stepback gorgeous or what? I'm a collector of Elizabeth Hoyt's books but I'll confess to never having read a single one of them. Shameful, I know. Oh and this one sounds a bit gothic too. Yum.



AWAKENED BY KISS by Lila DiPasqua

Releases August 3, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

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

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

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

Gawd, I'm such a sucker for these fairy tale collections. Barbara, heads up on this one, girl.

Interview with Alexandra Hawkins & Giveaway!

Hey everyone! Please welcome Alexandra Hawkins to Lovin' Me Some Romance!

Her debut novel, ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE, hit shelves on February 2nd and is book one in the sinfully delicious Lords of Vice Series.

In the midst of a chaotic opening week, Alexandra was kind enough to not only let me pick her author brain a bit, but she's also offered a copy of ANWAR to one lucky commenter. See below for contest details.

The Lords of Vice - How did they come to be? Can you tell me something sinful about Sin and the heroes of the next two books?

One of my favorite type of hero is the Regency rake, so I knew almost from the beginning that I wanted to develop a series around a group of male friends. I decided to use the their club, Nox, as a reoccurring setting where the men’s private lives intersected with their often public pursuits.

As for something sinful . . . Well, Sin can be very creative with a string of pearls. Reign doesn’t need to undress a lady to pleasure her, and while Dare is more reserved than the others, he knows how to use his clever mouth when it counts.

Sin, your hero in ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE, is quite the rake in need of some reformation. What is so appealing about the Rake as a Hero to you as a writer? And as a reader, do you gravitate towards reformed rake stories?

As a writer, the Regency rake is so deliciously appealing because he’s the quintessential rebel. He thumbs his nose at society’s rules, indulges his passions, and somehow manages to live his life on his terms without dire consequences. As a reader, this type of alpha male has always appealed to me. It doesn’t matter what time period I’m reading.

Your heroine in ALL NIGHT WITH A ROGUE, Juliana, withstands a lot of turmoil not only from Sin but from her family as well. Do you ever feel guilty about wrecking havoc on your characters and their lives or are you rubbing your hands in glee? What's the general consensus amongst authors, if there is one, for when too much becomes too much?

Oh, I’m not gleeful at all. As I’m working on a story, I’m running the emotional gamut with the characters. I feel what they’re feeling at any given time; however, I try not to interfere with what I’ve put into motion. When does it become too much? It’s difficult to draw a line in the sand because it’s going to vary from author to author, just as it varies from reader to reader.

What's something that not too many people know about you?

I love sci-fi and horror. I blame all those black-and-white monster movies that I watched as a child.

Writing sex can't be easy so my hat's off to you and every other romance author for being so adept at conveying the complicated dance of sex with mere words. How do you feel about the romance reading population demanding more and more steamier fare? Are you silently pumping your fist in excitement or are you reading "How To Write Erotica" books?

Fortunately, I haven’t reached for a “how-to” book yet! I don’t mind writing steamy because it’s what I enjoy as a reader. For the Lords of Vice series, steamy seemed wholly appropriate!

What's next for the Lords of Vice? Got any inside information you can divulge?

Book two, Till Dawn With the Devil, is scheduled for August. This is Reign’s story. The heroine, Lady Sophia is a newcomer to the series. Book three, After Dark With a Scoundrel is scheduled for February 2011. This is Dare’s story. His heroine is Lady Regan, Frost’s younger sister.

Me and my blogger friends have a love for what we affectionately call "Hussy Reading Material". Do you have any romance authors that you prefer when or if you're in need of erotic romance reading material?

Authors that I’ve tried and liked are: Emma Holly, Jess Michaels, Virginia Kantra, and Robin Schone.


A big thank you to Alexandra Hawkins for the interview and giveaway. (((HUGS)))

I also highly recommend, if you haven't already, that you take a moment to peruse Alexandra's gorgeous website.

*Contest Open to U.S. and Canada*

**Contest Closes Thursday, February 11th at Midnight U.S. Pacific Standard Time and a Winner will be Chosen Randomly and Announced Friday, February 12th**

Review: KISMET by Monica Burns

Review: KISMET by Monica Burns

In the heat of the desert night, passion rises like a flame...

Raised in a brothel, Allegra Synnford quickly learned that survival meant taking charge of her destiny. Now, as a renowned courtesan skilled in the pleasures of the flesh, she vows she will never be vulnerable to any one man...

Sheikh Shaheen of the Amazigh has been hiding from his past for a long time, but not enough to forget how another courtesan made him abandon his life as the Viscount Newcastle. When Allegra ignites his desire, his need threatens to undermine his cover.

With old enemies circling, experience tells him he must resist her charms at all costs. But Allegra has her own game to play...with a man who can't afford to lose.

Genre: Erotic Historical Romance

Cover Thoughts: Absolutely stunning and even more so in person. The exotically rich colors bring to life the novel's location of Morocco, providing a handy visual along with the page's description. It really drove home the vibe of the land where KISMET takes place.

Single Title/Series: Single title novel.

Why I Read It: From the very first moment I glimpsed the cover, I had to have it. Along with the cover, the title KISMET - meaning destiny - really sparked my interest and I was pleased to read that the plot dealed strongly with the characters musings on fate versus creating one's own destiny.

My Review:

KISMET is the first historical romance novel I've read that featured a Sheikh for a hero and its really changed my preconceived thoughts - judgements - on Sheikhs. My initial mental reaction at the word Sheikh was the combined thoughts of harem and misogynist but I've realized that this is really an uneducated response. Sheikh is an honorific term that can be applied to both men and women and literally means a person of age or an elder. A Sheikh is a learned or educated person who seeks knowledge and is respected by a community. Hmmm...I don't know where to attribute my first thoughts with regard to Sheikhs but I'm happy to no longer be ignorant of the word's true meaning.

On to the review...

Fifteen years ago, Sheikh Shaheen came to the harsh Moroccan desert to die only to find a new reason to live with the Amazigh. A people of strong values and tradition, the Amazigh live and love a vital land that can be both giving and cruel. It's in this barren wilderness that Shaheen builds a new life that allows him to bury the painful heartache of the name Viscount Newcastle and its association with the family he left behind in England. But when a world renowned courtesan arrives in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh, Shaheen is doomed to meet his destiny and be forced to face his dreaded past whether he's ready for it or not.

Allegra Synnford is a woman shaped by a crime she didn't commit. Barely at the brink of womanhood, Allegra was sold into prostitution by the same person that should have been willing to die to protect her - her mother. But Allegra is nothing if not a survivor and she's come a long way from that black pit of hell to pull herself up in the world by shaping her destiny with one careful choice at a time. Now, confident in her independence after securing the right to choose her lovers, Allegra travels to Morocco for a friends wedding. It's there that she's confronted by the one and only man that poses a serious threat to enslaving her heart and soul.

Within moments of Shaheen meeting Allegra, his emotions tailspin into complete turmoil. Having already acquired a healthy disdain for women, a courtesan has the ability to spark a deep seeded hatred within Shaheen along with the sickening feeling of guilt for he'd once been terribly wronged by a woman of Allegra's ilk resulting in a tragedy that has blackened his soul. Combined, these vicious emotions poison his thoughts and his words making him highly distrustful of Allegra but despite all this, he can't make himself stay away. When Allegra is snatched by a particularly evil rival Sheikh whilst in a seedier end of Marrakech, Shaheen wastes no time and even less thought before he's riding across the desert to save her.

Vibrant and compelling, Allegra is nearly broken by the disgusting Sheikh Nassar and is even further humiliated by Shaheen's retrieval of her. Just like her horrific past, Allegra is bartered and sold to Shaheen. Little does Shaheen know that while his strategy to save Allegra was universally degrading, he'd inadvertantly dug up the horrifics of her past resulting in an incredible emotional impact and igniting a deep distrust. He also underestimates Allegra's desire to return to Marrakech and to her home in England. Her greatest fear is Shaheen and his impact on her. He's a magnificent threat to all the independence that she's built but Shaheen is blinded and befuddled by his fierce craving for Allegra and no matter how tangible her desperation to leave becomes, he can't let her go. Instead he embarks on seducing her and removing her skilled courtesan mask. He's determined to tear past all the shielding layers that hide the real Allegra which is exactly what she fears and is so desperate to flee from. But it's hard to continue to deny what your soul desires and after a tough fight, Allegra succumbs to Shaheen's seduction.

Finally, in a moment of pure beauty, both Shaheen and Allegra drop their shields but fate is not yet content to leave the pair in peace. Once again the evil Sheikh Nassar is circling closer but this time it's with a fatal intent. As war looms on the horizon and Shaheen fears for Allegra's safety, he devises the fastest way of removing her from camp and returning her to England: Breaking her heart. Tearing to shreds the tenuous trust and burgeoning love, Shaheen destroys Allegra - reducing her to nothing but a woman of undiluted anger. Eventually his intentional destruction becomes all for not for in another twist of fate Allegra is kidnapped once again by Nassar but this time he has no intention of selling her.

Shaheen was an arrogant hero but a hero nonetheless. He did his best to keep Allegra safe but with his heart blinded by the emotions that consume him, Shaheen makes many mistakes - some of them are even repeat offenders. He's constantly underestimating Allegra's strength and haphazardly pushes her near her breaking point before he realizes that he couldn't live with himself if he actually "broke" her. Yet Shaheen continued to show major trust issues and its not until he's destroyed Allegra's heart that he finally allows himself to open his own heart to her. It was a bit nerve-wrecking waiting for him to learn from his mistakes and I almost thought the book would end with him unchanged but Shaheen surprised me greatly. His self-inflicting punishment at Allegra's feet had me near tears and it was more than apparent that he recognized his mistakes and that he was deserving of forgiveness. For the first time Shaheen doesn't barge in and demand but instead waits for Allegra to decide their fate and for Shaheen, that's a big deal.

While both characters are incredibly stubborn, Allegra really embodied the true meaning of the word but primarily in a survival sense. Incredibly, she knows when to let go and its only at the times that benefit her soul. With Sheikh Nassar, she stubbornly clings tight to her survival instincts and her desire to live free making her uneasily broken. Conversely with Shaheen, Allegra was stubborn in her refusal of his advances when he arrogantly, and at times cruelly, made hasty assumptions about her character. When she realizes the reason for his initial disdain, her soul hurts for him but she doesn't relinquish it because of guilt, but for love.

KISMET is an epic romance that brings to life the vibrant land of Morocco and its people. Amazingly colorful, one feels like they're right there with the characters riding speedy Arabians across the desert sands. The romance is passionate and the end is heartbreaking, leaving the reader in a puddled mush of tears and smiles. If you're a historical romance reader looking for something new, edgy and passionate, look no farther than KISMET.

B+

More Reviews:

The Romance Dish: 4 1/2 Stars
Babbling About Books, And More!: B

What's on My Radar? Episode 1

FLIRTING WITH FOREVER by Gwyn Cready

Releases March 30, 2010

Genre: Time Travel Romance

Ava Stratford has piqued more than reader interest with her sexy, tell-all biographies of seventeenth-century painters. She has also aroused the anger of the deceased in the art world. Unlike her readers, these dead artists know she uses a long-lost time portal to uncover the secrets of history's bad boys. When she sees the breathtaking and provocative portraits of half-clothed noblewomen produced by Sir Peter Lely, Ava dons her period travel garb, determined to dig up a great story. What she doesn't know is that Lely has been recruited to return to his life on Earth, intent on protecting his secrets and mastering the woman who has captured his heart.

Thoughts: This cover...WOW. I was completely captured simply by this gorgeous cover. Does anyone else have a thing for castles on their covers? I suppose it's a weird little anecdote of mine, but I love castles in romance. Probably because a castle is the perfect symbol of romance. They're always magical in their beauty. Even the most Gothic of castles inspires romance.



BEDTIME STORIES: A COLLECTION OF EROTIC FAIRY TALES by Jean Johnson

Releases April 6, 2010

Genre: Erotic

All-new! Fairy tales retold with an erotic edge, by the national bestselling author of the Sons of Destiny series.

Jean Johnson sneaks between the covers of such classic fairy tales as Beauty and the Beast, Puss n' Boots, and Sleeping Beauty, and refashions them into bedtime stories for adults only. With clever gender twists, hot fetishistic turns, other-worldly desires, and explorations into forbidden territories, Bedtime Stories reveals a veritable garden of sensual delights that gives new meaning to the term "happy ending."

Thoughts: Another beautiful cover but I'm also intrigued by fairy tales having an erotic twist to them and this one sounds uber good in that department.



MARKED by Elisabeth Naughton

Releases April 27, 2010

Genre: Paranormal Romance

THERON – Dark haired, duty bound and deceptively deadly. He’s the leader of the Argonauts, an elite group of guardians that defends the immortal realm from threats of the Underworld.

From the moment he walked into the club, Casey knew this guy was different. Men like that just didn’t exist in real life—silky shoulder-length hair, chest impossibly broad, and a predatory manner that just screamed dark and dangerous. He was looking for something. Her.

She was the one. She had the mark. Casey had to die so his kind could live, and it was Theron’s duty to bring her in. But even as a 200-year-old descendent of Hercules, he wasn’t strong enough to resist the pull in her fathomless eyes, to tear himself away from the heat of her body.

As war with the Underworld nears, someone will have to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Thoughts: I'm always on the look out for a new paranormal romance series and this one has some major promise. I'm not really crazy about the cover but the blurb has me captured - hook, line and sinker.



SEX AND THE SINGLE EARL by Vanessa Kelly

Releases May 4, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Their marriage was convenient...

Simon St. James, fifth Earl of Trask, knows he could do worse in the marriage of convenience department. Sophie Stanton may be a bit of a social liability, with her ungovernable ways and flighty nature, but Simon has responsibilities as an earl that far outweigh happiness in the household. As for happiness in the bedroom...he has to admit he sees Sophie’s potential in that arena...

Their passion was not!

But Sophie isn’t some bargaining chip to be traded, and she’s not about to let Simon St. James tell her how to live her life—even though she has nurtured a crush on the handsome young earl for as long as she can remember. If his idea of courtship is telling her what to do, then she is not interested, or at least she is trying not to be. But when his scolding words turn to scorching kisses, suddenly Sophie starts paying attention...

Thoughts: I'll admit that the word sex is what first caught my eye with this book. I know, I'm well aware of my kinky radar. ;) But I'm also a sucker for a good "marriage of convenience" romance. There's always some good emotional turmoil to be had with this type of plot.

BTW, you gotta check out Vanessa's website. It's gorgeous!



BARELY A LADY by Eileen Dreyer

Releases June 29, 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Olivia Grace has secrets that could destroy her. One of the greatest of these is the Earl of Gracechurch, who married and divorced her five years earlier. Abandoned and disgraced, Grace has survived those years at the edge of respectability. Then she stumbles over Jack on the battlefield of Waterloo, and he becomes an even more dangerous secret. For not only is he unconscious, he is clad in an enemy uniform.

But worse, when Jack finally wakes in Olivia's care, he can't remember how he came to be on a battlefield in Belgium. In fact, he can remember nothing of the last five years. He thinks he and Olivia are still blissfully together. To keep him from being hanged for a traitor, Olivia must pretend she and Jack are still married.

To unearth the real traitors, Olivia and Jack must unravel the truth hidden within his faulty memory. To save themselves and the friends who have given them sanctuary, they must stand against their enemies, even as they both keep their secrets.

In the end, can they risk everything to help Jack recover his lost memories, even though the truth may destroy them both?

Thoughts: This romance sounds emotionally tumultuous. The best kind really. Normally I'm not into espionage or war heroes but I find myself looking at this book constantly on Amazon and I'm taking that strong urge as my instincts yelling out that this is a good one and should not be missed.