FIRE AND ICE

By Julie Garwood
Ballantine Books (2008), 320 pages, $26 (hardcover)

The strengths of Julie Garwood’s books are the engaging characters she brings to life, and the chemistry she brews between the hero and heroine.

“Fire and Ice” fit rather nicely into her well-honed formula.

Sophie was peripherally introduced in “The Murder List.” Don’t remember? No wonder – it was written four years ago.

So to save yourself the frustration of not being able to remember Sophie – or other characters – from that book, you might want to read it again before you start “Fire and Ice.” Or, you can read this brief synopsis:

Regan and her friends Cordie (perhaps within the next decade we’ll read about her romance with Regan’s brother Aidan….or maybe not) and Sophie go to hear this quack self-help guru, to help Sophie (a reporter) expose him as a fraud. He tells everyone to write a “Murder List,” names of people they’d rather not exist.

Regan scribbles down a few names so he doesn’t suspect her of being a spy.

The next thing she knows, people on her list start getting killed. And she receives threats. She’s assigned a bodyguard – Alex Buchanan – who is a few weeks away from leaving Chicago and returning to Boston to work for the FBI.

They fall in love.

So in “Fire and Ice,” Regan and Alec are back, and so are some of Alec’s police buddies. But the new guy is Jack – Alec’s partner, and the hero of this piece.

Jack loses a bet and consents to a favor, which results in him sticking close to Sophie. Of course eventually he sticks real close.

Sophie is a strong heroine and Jack makes a good match for her. Their chemistry is good and it’s obvious to everyone that they’re head-over-heels – everyone but Sophie and Jack. And that just makes it fun to watch.

The suspense is intriguing and will keep you guessing in some aspects. The trip to Alaska is rather fun to read about – but keep a blanket handy. You’ll get cold when you read it.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. Garwood doesn’t release books very often, but when she does it’s a must read. This book has ties to the Buchanans (the modern day ones), which gives it additional appeal for fans of that series. But it’s also well-written, with engaging characters and a suspenseful storyline – which will appeal to all romance fans, and perhaps even to some mystery readers as well.

Hunk appeal: 10. Jack isn’t the flowers and candy romantic type. Thank goodness. His toughness, eventual protectiveness and capability give him a gruffy appeal. His reluctance to accept his love for Sophie is endearing as well. It’s just fun watching him fall.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. And fall hard.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Garwood has a knack for fun endings (who will ever forget Laurant’s and Nick’s finale in “Heartbreaker”) and while this one doesn’t match that one, it’s still a good one. Maybe a bit predictable, but that’s OK too.

Also this week…..



“When the Duke Returns,” by Eloisa James (2008 paperback) 4 of 5. This fourth book in the “Desperate Duchesses” series is just fun. Isidore, who we’ve watched not-so-patiently wait for her husband to return from Africa, finally gets to meet the man who made her a duchess when she was just a child. Their families arranged the marriage, and they were married by proxy when Isidore was quite young. Simeon returns looking to start a life with his docile, biddable wife. He was in for quite a surprise when he discovered his beautiful Isidore was a lot of things – intelligent, quick-witted, opinionated and stubborn – and most definitely not docile and biddable. While they struggle to decide whether to stay married or not, they can’t ignore the passion that sparks whenever they’re together – even though at times, both would like to. Then again, at times they both rather enjoy that passion.

A STONE CREEK CHRISTMAS

By Linda Lael Miller
Silhouette (2008), 217 pages, $4.99 (paperback)

Take a veterinarian who talks to animals, a lost reindeer named Rodney and a Christmas tree vendor named Kris Kringle and what do you get?

A delightful holiday romance worth reading.

Olivia O’Ballivan is a small-town vet who spends more time with animals than people. She’s got trust and abandonment issues – thanks to her mother’s desertion when she was a child, and even her beloved famous brother’s leaving to find fortune and fame – but that doesn’t stop her from becoming attached to new-guy-in-town Tanner.

Tanner has definite commitment issues.

So when they embark on a no-strings-attached affair, it seems the best for both. But it doesn’t take long for each of them to realize they’re in love – and no-strings isn’t best at all.

In fact, they both discover they want strings. Lots of strings. And not just the strings of lights they buy to decorate for Christmas.

The simplicity of the plot, and the fun that Linda Lael Miller has with entwining Christmas magic in the story, should put it at the top of holiday reading lists. But Olivia’s sadness about missing her grandfather, and her angst over those abandonment issues thanks to dear old mom, make her less than a cheery and fun heroine to read about. Tanner doesn’t help matters – he’s still grieving for his deceased wife, misses his grandmother, and is conflicted about whether he should be forcing his daughter to live in a boarding school for protection.

All of this soul-searching, angst and sadness makes for a rather somber read much of the time.

But the romance between Olivia and Tanner is touching, endearing and sweet. It’s also fun to read about Brad and Meg (“The McKettrick Way”) as they enjoy their happily-ever-after.

Overall rating: 3 of 5 hearts. Perhaps a bit too somber at times, but still a touching and sweet romance full of Christmas spirit.

Hunk appeal: 10. Perhaps a bit too somber at times….but Tanner is a good man who treats Olivia well and tries to do the right thing for his family.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Not too somber.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Perhaps a bit too somber….but Tanner and Olivia are well on their happily-ever-after way and seem to be a bit perkier.


Also this week…..



Silver Bells

by Fern Michaels, JoAnn Ross, Mary Burton and Judy Duarte
(2008, paperback) 3 of 5.

This is a collection of short, holiday stories that are easy, quick reads. In “Silver Bells,” by Michaels, movie-star Amy discovers she can go home again – thanks to high school boyfriend Hank. In “Dear Santa,” Holly discovers the magic of Christmas – and love – thanks to Gabriel. In “Christmas Past,” Nicole discovers love is worth trying again – thanks to David. And in “A Mulberry Park Christmas,” Jillian goes home again, and discovers love again – thanks to Mac.

THE PAGAN STONE

By Nora Roberts
Jove (2008), 305 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

Nora Roberts very, very rarely disappoints.

But the finale of her latest otherworldly-type trilogy fizzled somewhat.

Perhaps it was because the bad guy wasn’t really a guy – or gal. Perhaps it was because Gage and Cybil weren’t really romance hero and heroine worthy.

Maybe it was because Gage and Cybil’s “courtship,” if you can call it that, seemed to be more about the physical than romance.

And maybe some readers aren’t just enlightened enough to latch onto characters who are way too casual and “cosmopolitan” about certain things.

Or maybe all the research and speculation about the big evil entity lurking in their lives just got a bit tedious and overshadowed the romance.

Regardless, “The Pagan Stone” wasn’t as good as its predecessors, “Blood Brothers” and “The Hollow.”

Still, a disappointing Nora Roberts book is better than many and it’s still an intriguing story. And besides, if you read the first two books, you’ve got to read this one.

Encouraged by successful battles against the evil thing in the earlier books, the team of six is ready to dispense of the bad entity for good. They’re far from totally confident they can, but they know they have no choice.

Of course we started “The Pagan Stone” with two couples already blissful – Quinn and Cal (“Blood Brothers”) and Fox and Layla (“The Hollow.”) By the way, Layla was less annoying in this book.

Gage and Cybil resent the notion that fate may be forcing them toward couple-dom. They acknowledge a physical attraction, but are determined not to be paired for eternity.

Of course, they end up paired for eternity.

When Gage confesses his love – and it does rather charmingly come out like a confession dragged out by torture – he says, “I’m not here with you because of some grand design dictated before either of us were born. I don’t feel what I feel for you because somebody, or something, decided it would be for the greater good for me to feel it. What’s inside me is mine, Cybil, and it’s in there because of the way you are, the way you sound, the way you smell, you look, you think….

“I’m in love with you, and I’m almost through being annoyed about it.”

And by the time you read that, you’ll almost be through being annoyed at Gage and Cybil and the research that bogged down the story somewhat.

Overall rating: 3 of 5 hearts. While the research and speculation about how they can best defeat the evil entity gets cumbersome, there is still enough witty dialog and repartee to make it worth reading. Nora Roberts is incapable of writing a bad book. This one just isn’t as good as most of hers.

Hunk appeal: 10. Gage is a good enough guy, and while he stumbles a bit – and is somewhat too casual – he does rally nicely at the end.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Doesn’t stumble here.

Happily-Ever-After: OK. The evil is destroyed and the town can live without the fear that strikes every seven years. The couples are all paired and headed toward wedded bliss.

Also this week…..

A BRIDE BY CHRISTMAS
by Heather Graham, Jo Beverley and Candace Camp (2008 paperback) 3 of 5.

These are actually stories by these authors written 19 and nine years ago. Even though they’re all short stories, they do drag at times. Still, they’re Christmas stories and that makes them more tolerable. In Graham’s story, “Home For Christmas,” a Yankee captain confiscates a Southern home, and captivates it’s young mistress – Isabelle. She is torn between her feelings for Travis, and her allegiance to the Confederacy. In Beverley’s, “The Wise Virgin,” Joan gets entangled in a feud between her uncle and his long-time enemy, and falls in love with the enemy. She thinks their future together is doomed not to happen, but she underestimates the power of true love. And in “Tumbleweed Christmas,” by Camp, Melinda becomes a housekeeper and cook for a curmudgeonly rancher. By Christmas, he’s not so curmudgeonly any more.

A McKETTRICK CHRISTMAS

By Linda Lael Miller
HQN (2008), 280 pages, $16.95 (hardcover)

If you’re having trouble finding the Christmas spirit this season, spend a couple of hours with the McKettricks.

Linda Lael Miller has written an historical Christmas tale focusing on the family many of her fans have come to love.

Lizzie McKettrick is coming home to the family ranch, after spending years away at school. She’s bringing home a city boyfriend to meet her family. She is excited to be going back to the Triple M and is looking forward to becoming the town’s school teacher – and to her boyfriend proposing marriage.

But her plans were rather derailed – like her train, which was knocked off the tracks by an avalanche.

With their lives in danger, an unlikely group of strangers form a bond, as they try to keep their Christmas spirits alive despite knowing their lives are in danger. Morgan, a doctor on his way to Indian Rock to set up practice, takes charge of caring for everyone, with Lizzie by his side.

It doesn’t take long for Lizzie to realize that her city boyfriend isn’t the one – and that Morgan is.

Lizzie and Morgan’s courtship isn’t all that, but this is a sweet and fun holiday read that won’t take up much of your time, and will definitely help get you in the Christmas spirit.

It doesn’t take the entire book for the passengers to be rescued – thank goodness – and the rest of the book mainly focuses on Morgan and Lizzie’s courtship, albeit a rather tepid one. However, their love isn’t.

The bottom line is, if you want a decent holiday story, this will do the trick. Especially if you’re a McKettrick fan.

Overall rating: 3-plus of 5 hearts. The romance isn’t great, but it’s a sweet holiday story that is certain to get you in the Christmas spirit, with a twist or two that will keep you smiling and thinking of the season.

Hunk appeal: 10. Morgan doesn’t have that tough-guy, save-the-damsel sort of appeal, but he’s a good guy. And most definitely the love of Lizzie’s life.

Steamy scene grade: XXX. First comes marriage….well, sort of.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Actually the best part is when the McKettrick men save Lizzie and the train passengers (come on, this didn’t ruin anything. You knew they would.) The remaining story wraps up Lizzie’s and Morgan’s relationship, but it’s almost anti-climatic. Just kind of a sweet.

Also this week…..

Captivated & Entranced
by Nora Roberts (1992 paperback) 5 of 5.
This was re-released in a two-for-one this month. And if you haven’t met the Donovans before, don’t hesitate to make their acquaintance now. It starts with “Captivated,” Morgan and Nash’s story. And one of the best break-up/make-up scenes ever is in this book (have a box of tissues handy). The Donovans are a family of witches, and Morgan is perhaps the witchiest. Nash is a movie writer, and solicits Morgan for consultation regarding one of his scripts. And the rest is magic. Next, in “Entranced,” it’s Sebastian’s turn. He teams up with private investigator Mary Ellen and creates magic with her, while foiling a kidnapping ring.

SALVATION IN DEATH

By J.D. Robb
Putnam (2008), 353 pages, $25.95 (hardcover)

Eve and Roarke are back with a suspenseful story that will enthrall you by capturing your curiosity and snare you with the usual wit, repartee and passion that have made this series of books an addiction for many readers.

For those of you who have never read one of J.D. Robb’s books, find copies of the first two stories of the series, “Naked In Death” and “Glory In Death.” You’ll be hooked.

And by the way, for those who don’t know this yet, J.D. Robb is Nora Roberts.

In this tale, Eve and Roarke are enjoying their happy albeit never restful marriage. Surrounded by an eclectic group of colorful friends, Eve tries to deal with the complicated and scary parts of her life – like planning a wedding shower – and the mundane, like solving a murder.

Or two.

This book actually has two murders for Eve and her trusty partner, Peabody, to solve. One is cracked pretty quickly, the other takes up the entire book.

While conducting a funeral mass, a priest is poisoned. As Eve begins investigating this intriguing case, she unearths secrets and will prevent you from being able to put the book down.

And of course when she goes home, Roarke is there to help her unravel the mystery – and help her remember that her life is about more than solving murders now.

Roarke isn’t quite as involved with helping her solve this case as in some others, and perhaps there isn’t quite enough of him in the book. But when he’s there? He’s…..well, he’s Roarke.

As one expects from a J.D. Robb book, the banter and dialog between characters is snappy, witting and fun. Especially between Roarke and Eve, although Peabody has become quite a sidekick as well.

Like when Eve comes home to Roarke the first evening and says, “I thought you were somewhere else today. Like Mongolia.”

“Minnesota.”

“What’s the difference?”

Then she asks, “Did you buy Mongolia?”

“Minnesota.”

“Either.”

“No. Did you want it?”

And then there are the mushy scenes, those tender moments that these two driven, tough people share only when they’re alone.

As usual, this book hits on all cylinders.


Overall rating: 5 of 5 hearts. The interaction between Eve and Roarke, and the couple and their friends, is always fun and witty and would make it worth reading even if there was nothing else. However, there is a big something else that will keep you turning the pages – the murder. It’s a good mystery to solve.

Hunk appeal: 10-plus, plus, etc. Roarke is the standard to measure all others – and they all come up short. It doesn’t hurt that he owns planets and is the most powerful, rich and gorgeous man in the universe. But he not only totally loves Eve, he totally understands her. And still considers her “everything and all things” for him.

Steamy scene grade: XXXXX. Roarke and Eve. Enough said.

Happily-Ever-After: Very good. Eve solves the case beautifully, and she has her moment with Roarke. Of course the best thing is knowing we’ll be reading more about Eve, Roarke and the gang. In fact, “Promises In Death” is scheduled for release in February. Something to look forward to after the holidays.


Also this week…..

Home for the Holidays

by Johanna Lindsey
(2000, paperback) 5 of 5.

You may have to do a bit of scrounging to find this one, but it will be worth the hunt. It was actually a hardcover before it was released a year later as a paperback. It's a perfect holiday story, borrowing the "Scrooge" theme. Like most of Lindsey's books, this is a historical romance, set in turn-of-the-century London. Baron Vincent is a man void of emotion, one who has lived his 29 years without love, without friends and without a Christmas tree. Then he meets Larissa, a sweet young woman who is only supposed to be pawn in Vincent’s plan for revenge. Of course he falls in love with her and she changes his life. Unfortunately, he did tell her all of that until after she discovers Vincent is responsible for her and her family’s misfortunes. Which makes for a great reconciliation scene.

SUITE 606

By J.D. Robb, Mary Blayney, Ruth Ryan Langan, Mary Kay McComas
Berkley (2008), 344 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

Of course in this anthology, J.D. Robb steals the show.
Even a short story starring Eve and Roarke is enough to excite fans and “Ritual In Death” is the definite highlight of this book.
So let’s focus on that one.
Eve is accompanying Roarke at a party in a hotel (owned by Roarke, of course) when a bloody, naked man stumbles in.
Instantly, the party changes from social tedium to murder investigation for Eve. And for Roarke, since he delightfully tags along for much of this one.
The murder and mayhem occurred down the hall from the party – in Suite 606.
As an anthology story, it’s short and quick. But the exceedingly talented Nora Roberts (aka J.D. Robb) excels in infusing the story with the typical humor, suspense, wit and passion that is the earmark of this series.
In the other stories, Mary Blayney’s “Love Endures” is a sweet tale about a couple estranged for years by the lies crafted by the heroine’s husband. When he dies, his ghost must linger until the truth – uttered from his lips – reunites Stephen and Summer.
The other two stories aren’t as strong.
Ruth Ryan Langan, usually reliable for writing stories worth reading, gives readers a disturbingly haunting tale this time – with an ending that’s far from satisfying. Mary Kay McComas’ story is cute, but a bit mind-boggling.
But Robb’s story alone makes this worth reading.
And even better – a full-length Robb book is now available now. Look for a review of “Salvation In Death” next week.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. Robb’s story is a definite 5, Blayney’s a 4, and the other two would be 3s. One thing positive – they’re all quite different. You’ve got a futuristic murder-suspense, a historical with a ghost, a paranormally weird story and a time travel tale.


Hunk appeal: 10. Of course, Roarke is off-the-scale 10-plus-plus. The others are OK. Stephen gets major points for “enduring” and his behind-the-scenes care of Summer for years. Sam is just put in a too-weird-for-words situation. And a wizard for a hero? Almost works.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. In some, more than others.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. The best thing about the Robb book is knowing a full-length tale awaits. Langan’s ending was not good at all. Blayney’s ending was a bit weird, but good. McComas’ ending was better than OK.


Also this week…..


KISS AND TELL


by Suzanne Brockmann (1996, paperback) 4-plus of 5.

Before Suzanne Brockmann hit it big with her Navy Seal novels, before she became an advocate for a social cause or two in her books, she wrote pure, sweet romances. And she was quite good at it.
“Kiss And Tell” is the first of a trilogy, and is a story that only advocates romance and love.
Leila couldn’t wait to shake the sand from her shoes and leave her small, beach hometown for the big city. She’s home for the holidays, and bummed because boyfriend maybe-soon-to-be-fiancee Elliot, wasn’t able to join her for the New Year’s Eve masquerade party.
But she wasn’t alone at midnight. She shared a shockingly passionate kiss with a man dressed as a Ninja, someone she didn’t recognize during their all-to-brief interlude. When mystery man has to hurry away due to an emergency beeper summons, she’s left wondering, who kissed her?
Marsh is the best friend of Leila’s brother, and the local doctor. And Leila’s lifelong nemesis. He’s always secretly been attracted to Leila, but even he was shocked by the result of that kiss. He can’t way to explore what it means, but is thwarted when he learns Leila didn’t realize it was he she had kissed.
Not knowing what to do, he gets drawn into a ruse of “helping” Leila find the man. And all along, he tries to woo and court her.
And the results are sweet to read.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Lisa Plumley
Zebra (2008), 344 pages, $6.99 (paperback)


There’s no place like “Home For The Holidays,” and there’s nothing like reading about romance at Christmas.
Lisa Plumley once again gifts readers with a Yuletide story sure to put you in a holiday mood, with characters certain to make you laugh – and shake your head.
Rachel is a rather annoying small-town-girl-turned-LA-snob, who gets an unfair comeuppance in the big city, and decides to hide out and lick her wounds back home during Christmas.
Reno is the local hero, the small-town kid who made it big in the NFL, who then returned home to run a sporting goods store and endear himself to the locals by being the go-to-for-any-favor man about town.
So, he was only doing one of his favors when he agreed to pick up Rachel at the airport.
Their courtship was rather unorthodox, since Rachel was in full LA-is-so-much-better-than-this-place mode, and Reno was determined to change her mind. There was also the fact that Reno was suffering a lot of guilt because his best buddy fancied himself in love with Rachel, and was counting on Reno to hook him up.
Oh, and then there were Reno’s parents, who separated over Tom’s insensitive Christmas gift.
In other words, this is vintage Plumley. She’s created a cast of characters that are a bit eccentric, quirky and likeable and spun a story that will make you smile.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. It’s really tough to not like a holiday book. And it’s really tough not to like the quirkiness and fun that Plumley infuses in all her stories. And there’s lots of Christmas in this one as well!


Hunk appeal: 10. Reno is just a good guy. Almost too good, at times. He loses points when Rachel discovers he was supposed to be setting her up with his best friend, by deciding he’s the affronted because she doesn’t understand how he felt.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. A good guy.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. It’s another hero-rushing-after-heroine-to-stop-her-from-leaving scene. But hey, it works! Reno goes after Rachel, catches her, apologizes – accepts her apologies – and both say very mushy, very romantic stuff that makes it a good ending.



Also this week…..

BIG SKY WINTER

by Diana Palmer (2008, hardcover) 4 of 5.

Actually, this is a two-in-one, with both stories written in 1986. But as most of her stories are, these two are timeless and you’ll enjoy them every bit as much now as you would have 22 years ago.
In the first story, “Rawhide & Lace,” Ty is a homely rancher, who is nasty and cruel to the woman he loves – the beautiful model Erin. Of course it’s a self-defense mechanism, to keep her from breaking his heart. It doesn’t work – in more ways than one. His nastiness runs Erin off, but not before their passion resulted in a pregnancy. She tries to tell him, but he’s nasty again. Soon after, she wrecks her car and loses the baby and her career.
Ty finds out about that shortly before Erin inherits half of his ranch – with the stipulation that she lives there. She doesn’t want to, but knows a lot of innocent people would lose their jobs if she refuses. Ty is determined to make up for his part in Erin’s accident, but still slips into nastiness often. Of course they end up married, and eventually happy – after clearing up misunderstandings and learning each other’s true feelings.
“Unlikely Lover” is the sequel to “Rawhide & Lace,” featuring Ty’s former nemesis and neighbor, Ward. Mari is the niece of Ward’s cook, and becomes an unwitting pawn in auntie’s matchmaking scheme. Even though Ward and Mari are both aware of the aunt’s plot, they succumb to the love that simmers between them.
Of course Palmer’s name is on the cover, so they have to suffer many self-erected obstacles before they can embark on happily-ever-after. But of course, they finally get there.

SEDUCE ME AT SUNRISE

St. Martin’s (2008), 360 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

Lisa Kleypas does it again.
Kleypas was born to write romances. She writes scenes that resonate with romance readers, ones that get earmarked and cherished. Scenes that have tears streaming down cheeks while readers sigh wistfully.
Quite simply, Kleypas gives romance readers exactly what they want.
In “Seduce Me At Sunrise,” she reprises beloved characters from “Mine Till Midnight,” and gives us another charming and unforgettable story.
In “Mine Till Midnight,” we meet Win, invalid sister of heroine Amelia, and Merripen, a gypsy taken in by the girls’ family as a boy who is obviously in love with Win, and just as obviously has some sort of connection to Amelia’s future husband, Cam.
“Seduce Me At Sunrise” picks up soon after “Mine Till Midnight” ends, with a brief flashback to when Merripen came to live with the Hathaways. Win is getting ready to journey to France, where a doctor has had success in “curing” fragile patients suffering lingering effects from illnesses, such as Win’s scarlet fever.
Much of the story deals with the compelling and consuming passion Win and Merripen share for each other, and Merripen’s determination to ignore it. He doesn’t think he’s good enough for her. But at the same time, he can’t let her go.
This causes much frustration for Win – and readers – as Merripen succumbs to passionate petting and embraces, only to push her away in an effort to convince her to forget about him.
It doesn’t work.
“Seduce Me At Sunrise” has plenty to keep readers turning the pages: Wit, suspense, secrets to learn and, of course, lots of love and passion.


Overall rating: 4-plus of 5 hearts. “Seduce Me At Sunrise” is full of romantic passages, words designed to make readers sigh wistfully and shed capacious tears. Like when Merripen tells Win, somewhat angrily, that he does love her: “All the fires….could burn for a thousand years and it wouldn’t equal what I feel for you in one minute of the day.”

Hunk appeal: 10. Once he quits trying to deny his love and the inevitability of a union with Win, it’s a definite plus. Unfortunately, it takes him most of the book to get there. Still, Merripen’s wonderfully protective and eventually loving. And he definitely has some great lines: “I love every part of you, every thought and word….I love you for being the answer to every question my heart could ask.”

Steamy scene grade: XXXXX. Get ready to blush.

Happily-Ever-After: Very good. It’s a rather long ending, but you won’t complain. It starts when Merripen gives in to love, and promises to love Win forever. From then until the final page, secrets will be revealed (including Cam and Merripen’s questions about their past), a villain unveiled and Win and Merripen’s love will face a test – and pass.


Also this week…..


AGAIN THE MAGIC

by Lisa Kleypas (2008 paperback) 5 of 5.

Simply one of the all-time best romances, a compelling love story that oozes romance and has you dreading the final page.
The story spans several years, beginning when Lady Aline and stable boy McKenna realized their innocent childhood friendship has evolved into something more. Their passion is the stuff great love stories are made of.
So, of course, they have to face tragedy. Aline's father threatens McKenna, and Aline must take drastic measures to keep him safe. As her sister explains to an embittered McKenna many years later, "She loved you . . . enough that she chose to make you hate her rather than see you harmed in any way."
And McKenna does try to hate Aline. He returns to her home 12 years later as a successful man intent on making Aline suffer for casting him aside all those years ago. He tries to fight his affection for Aline with bitterness and nastiness, but he can't fight love.
Truths have to be discovered and secrets shared before they can embark on their happilyever- after.
This book is full of wonderfully romantic, tender scenes that will linger in your mind -- passages you'll turn to time after time, whenever you need a quick dose of passionate romance.
Interesting note: “Again The Magic” introduced Lord Westcliff, Aline’s brother, who was later an integral character in the Wallflower series as the husband of Lillian, and had smaller roles in “Mine Till Midnight” and “Seduce Me At Sunset.”

THE RUSTLER

By Linda Lael Miller
HQN (2008), 374 pages, $7.99 (paperback)


Take a former outlaw-turned-good guy in the early 1900s. Pair him up with a damsel in distress and what do you get?
A fun, pure romance by Linda Lael Miller.
Following in his brother Rowdy’s footsteps (“A Wanted Man”) Wyatt decides to shed his outlaw ways and find a law-abiding job. He ends up in Stone Creek, where his brother is the marshal.
And he meets Sarah.
Sarah has two rather significant secrets that make her rather sad, and keeps her from allowing any man to get too close. She considers herself an old maid who is “too plainspoken and too smart to suit most men.”
And Wyatt decides right after meeting her that he’s going to marry her.
It takes a bit longer for him to realize he loves her.
Sarah is immediately drawn to Wyatt, but those secrets hold her back. Her father, the town’s banker, suffers from what seems to be dementia. She can’t let anyone know, or realize that she’s actually running the back, or she knows the business will be taken away.
Her other secret is a past relationship with a city man, who is a total jerk.
And the result of that relationship.
When the jerk comes to town with his son, Sarah is ecstatic to spend time with the boy. But when the jerk turns the visit into blackmail, her life becomes a nightmare.
One Wyatt intends to turn into a dream.
And, of course, he does.
It’s nice to visit characters from the other books in Miller’s “Stone Creek” series, and nice to get to know Wyatt, who ends up making a rather good, good guy.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. Nothing complicated about this book, just a pure, unapologetic romance with a determined hero, an independent damsel in distress, and a villain who gets his due.

Hunk appeal: 10. Romance books like to tout that reformed rakes make the best husbands, but the Yarbro brothers seem to be proving reformed outlaws are pretty good as well.

Steamy scene grade: XXX. Definite “carrying on.”

Happily-Ever-After: Good. A bit of excitement, and a sweet “I love you” scene, along with a happy epilogue.




Also this week…..


Raintree: Inferno / Sanctuary / Haunted

by Linda Howard, Beverly Barton and Linda Winstead Jones (2008 paperback) 4 of 5.

The stories that were released separately a year ago are now together in a three-for-one. Howard’s “Inferno” starts off the trilogy, introducing Dante.
This is a series that probably will sound ridiculously stupid when you try to tell someone about it.
But it's so good, you won't care.
It is a paranormal series, but don't let that turn you off. Dante is king of a far-reaching group of people with special powers, including brother Gideon (“Haunted,” by Winstead Jones) and sister Mercy (“Sanctuary,” by Barton.) They can do stuff like control fire and lightning and read minds.
The Raintree, as the clan of powerful and power full people are known, use their abilities for good. The Anasar is a clan that has been warring with the Raintree for centuries, and they come to blows big time in the series.

MR. CAVENDISH, I PRESUME

By Julia Quinn
AVON Books (2008), 370 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

A few months ago, we read about how a former military officer turned highwayman discovered he was “The Lost Duke of Wyndham.”
Jack, if you remember, robbed his grandmother who recognized him due to his resemblance to his deceased father.
During that story, Thomas – who thought he was the duke – had a peripheral role, as did his beleaguered fiancee, Amelia. Amelia and Thomas had been engaged since childhood, and Thomas had done his best to politely ignore her for years.
It’s like he thought at one point, “he had not treated her badly, but nor had he treated her well.”
Then, just as he began to take notice, he found out about cousin Jack – the real duke.
In “The Lost Duke of Wyndham” we read about Jack’s turmoil and reluctance to become a duke, while he was falling in love with Grace.
In “Mr. Cavendish, I Presume,” we read about the situation from Thomas’ perspective – while he was falling in love with his fiancee, whom he now decides deserves better than a mere mister.
So of course the bulk of the book is spent with Thomas getting used to his new lot in life, and slowly coming to the realization that love conquers all, and that Amelia wants him, not a title.
Julia Quinn is a romance master and like the rest of her books, this one is an outstanding read that will captivate you immediately.



Overall rating: 5 of 5 hearts. It was a lot of fun to read this story, which followed a parallel line to its predecessor, “The Lost Duke of Wyndam.” Interesting to read the same story, told from a different perspective.

Hunk appeal: 10, almost plus. Thomas was perhaps a bit brooding, but who could blame him with his life turned askew and a shrew for a grandmother. He perhaps wasn’t the most gallant and romantic fellow for Amelia initially, but he turned into a stalwart protector and a true love.


Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Worth the wait.

Happily-Ever-After: Very good, with a fun twist at the end. And of course, a very romantic one as well.




Also this week…..


SILVER MASTER

by Jayne Castle (2007 paperback) 4 of 5.

If you like or even tolerate futuristic stories, this is a must read. And with Castle’s new book, “Dark Light” taking readers back to the futuristic Harmony, it’s a good time to revisit with other books.
Unlike past heroes in the series, Davis isn't a ghost hunter. He comes from a family of ghost hunters, but his particular psychic skills make him a better private detective.
Celinda has some special and powerful psychic skills of her own. She doesn't advertise them because they freak out some folks.
They don't bother Davis. And Davis' abilities don't freak out Celinda.
So there you have it -- a perfect love match. Ah, but it's not quite that simple. It never is.
This book has strong characters, sharp dialog sharp and the story is intriguing. It’s a compelling story from one of the genre’s top authors.

WILD ROSES

By Hannah Howell
Zebra (1997), 308 pages, $6.99 (paperback)


In this Hannah Howell classic romance, you find yourself mumbling several questions to yourself:
Does Harrigan really not know he’s totally in love with Ella?
Would a man in love really leave his soul mate alone in a home where he suspects she may be in danger while he scrounges up evidence?
Would that same man really go have a drink with his friend after he suspects an evil uncle is taking his true love to her death?
But in the end, you realize the answers – and the aggravation – really don’t matter. Because all is well that ends well.
And “Wild Roses” ends well.
Harrigan is hired by Ella’s evil uncle to track her down in Wyoming and bring her back, by force if necessary, to Philadelphia. Ella tries to convince Harrigan during the trip that her uncle is no good and will kill her if Harrigan hands her over to him.
Harrigan does his best to not believe that.
He also does his best to ignore what he feels for Ella, even though everyone who encounters them even briefly can figure out that they love each other.
Like Ella said at the end, “I fear I wasn’t as strong a fighter as you and had to face the fact that you had stolen my heart fairly early in the game.”
That made some of the things Harrigan did to Ella even worse.
Not that Harrigan was unforgivably horrible. He gagged Ella, forced her to come with him and refused her pleas not to return her to her uncle. But he explained his reasons and was mostly a gentleman, as well as loving and protective in his way.
But then he turned her over to her uncle.
Obviously on the trip from Wyoming to Philadelphia, the two embark on a passionate affair. Which again, makes Harrigan’s actions even worse.
The book does drag on somewhat, and the ending takes too long to wrap up – probably because Harrigan does some rather convoluted thinking that is supposed to explain his actions – or inactions.
But in the end, he does save his damsel in distress – both from the dastardly deeds of her uncle and from a lifetime of loneliness and heartbreak.


Overall rating: 3-plus of 5 hearts. It’s a timeless, tear-producing, make-you-sigh pure romance, that just drags a big in a couple of places. It’s the sort that makes you want to yell at the hero on one page, and almost feel sorry for his turmoil on another.

Hunk appeal: 10, with definite 10-plus moments – and definite cad moments as well. Harrigan is an honorable man, trying to do the honorable thing and restore the family business he feels responsible for losing. In that vein, he does mistreat Ella, at times rather abominably, and does some things that just doesn’t make sense for a man in love to do. He does continuously feel guilty, which is somewhat of a consolation.


Steamy scene grade: XXXXX. Which also spoke well of Harrigan….and not.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Harrigan makes amends for his earlier misbehavior, and makes Ella happy.


Also this week…..
IT HAD TO BE YOU, by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (1994 paperback) 5 of 5. This must-read classic began Susan Elizabeth Phillips’ delectable Chicago Stars’ series, and was recently re-released. Phoebe inherits a professional football team from her father, whom she hadn’t seen for years. He wasn’t a nice man. She immediately clashes with coach Dan, who thinks of Phoebe as a slutty, blonde bimbo. He quickly learns that first impressions can be very, very wrong. This is a read again and again sort of book, with a fairytale ending and scenes that will become embedded in your mind. Phoebe and Dan’s happily-ever-after is also witnessed in future Chicago Stars’ stories – a must read series.

NOT ANOTHER BAD DATE

By Rachel Gibson
AVON BOOKS (2008), 377 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

For every woman who has had her heart broken by her first love, this one is for you.
For all the times you dreamed of the guy bumping into you years later, being dazzled by your beauty, charm and success and regretting more than anything in his life that he let you go…..
“Not Another Bad Date” is for you.
Adele is the last in her small group of writer friends to find her soul mate. (And we’ve read about all the others in previous books.)
Or perhaps she did find her soul mate while she was in college, and lost him.
Zach was a college football star, and Adele was on the outer fringes of popularity. Still, after he broke up with his head-cheerleader girlfriend (a snob who had made Adele’s life miserable in high school) he was drawn to Adele and they embarked on a brief, yet passionate, affair.
Until ex-girlfriend told Zach she was pregnant.
So being a good Southern gentleman, Zach married his ex. And broke Adele’s heart.
Fourteen years later, Adele – who has inexplicably had three years worth of really bad dates – comes back to her small hometown to help her pregnant sister and teen-aged niece. And discovers her niece’s best friend is Zach’s daughter.
Like most of Rachel Gibson’s books, this one is a lot of fun. And this time, part of that fun comes from an “otherworldly presence.” One that is not only responsible for Adele’s bad dates, but whose mortal self was responsible for her heartbreak.
That would be Devon, Zach’s deceased wife.
Devon wasn’t the nicest woman on Earth, and is given a couple of chances to redeem herself and earn a spot in heaven. She’d rather torture Adele though, even though her worst efforts turn out well for Adele and Zach.
Eventually.
When Adele discovers the parentage of her niece’s friend, she panics and tries to escape before seeing Zach. She had been at the hospital all night with her sister, had a coffee stain on her sweater and suffice it to say didn’t look her best.
But she doesn’t escape, and as she watches Zach approach she thinks, “At one time or another, every woman alive fantasized about running into an ex and making him sorry he’d dumped her. …she’d had them a time or two about Zach Zemaitis, but she’d always pictured herself sizzling hot, not looking like crap with coffee down her sweater.”
Adele resists Zach as long as possible, certain that he will shatter her heart again if she gets too close. And, because of the machinations of Devon, he does. But he comes to his senses and gives Adele the ending she deserves.



Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. It’s just pure fun to read a Rachel Gibson book, and “Not Another Bad Date” is no exception.
Hunk appeal: 10-plus. Even though Zach shattered Adele’s life years before, he did have a compelling reason. And he has his moments when Adele returns to his life. He’s patient, thought he does jump to a wrong conclusion. Still, that just sets him up to be dashing and romantic at the end.
Steamy scene grade: XXXXX. Pretty much defined their entire courtship.

Happily-Ever-After: Very good. For every woman who has dreamed of having a man chase her across the country to apologize, this one is for you.

Upcoming…..

While September has been a bit slow in the romance world, the next few months promise better.
In October, look for “Mr. Cavendish, I Presume,” by Julia Quinn, a sequel to “The Lost Duke of Wyndham.” Also in October, Carly Phillips has “Lucky Charm,” Fern Michaels releases “Collateral Damange” and Susan Krinard has “Come the Night.”
Heather Graham starts a trilogy in October, with the next book coming out in November, and the final in December. In order, the books are “Deadly Night,” “Deadly Harvest,” and “Deadly Gift.”
J.D. Robb fans are in for a huge treat in November, with the release of “Salvation In Death,” and the anthology, “Suite 606,” which has an Eve and Roarke story, along with tales by Mary Blayney, Ruth Ryan Langan and Mary Kay McComas.
And Nora Roberts will release the final installment of her Sign of Seven Trilogy, “The Pagan Stone,” in December.
Also in December, Iris Johansen has “The Treasure,” and Beverly Barton “Dying for You.”
Of course, the Christmas romances will begin hitting the shelves in October as well.

HEART OF STONE

By Diana Palmer
SILHOUETTE BOOKS (2008), 219 pages, $4.99 (paperback)

There’s a reason why fans start smiling when they see a Silhouette Book with Diana Palmer’s name on it.
And, a reason why they smile even brighter when they see it’s a “Long, Tall Texan” story.
Those who have read the multiple books in this series (Jacobsville, Texas is definitely blessed with many hunky cowboys) know what to expect, which is why we snatch them up quickly and find a place to hide and read.
When you read one of Palmer’s books you know that:
1) You’re going to need tissues,
2) You’re going to sympathize with the brave heroine who has suffered tragedy and heartbreak,
3) You’re not going to sympathize with the hero who despite being hunky and the love of the brave heroine’s life, is unreasonably hostile and/or nasty to said heroine for much of the story,
4) The story is going to end well with the heroine, and hero, blissfully happy.

And if they’re blissfully happy, so are you.
This is a quick and easy read, full of emotion that will have you smiling and crying. If you don’t have at least a sniffle or two while reading a book by Diana Palmer, you may need emotional counseling.
In this tale, Keely is an innocent 19-year who has been in love with her best friend’s brother for years. But Boone barely acknowledges her existence and Keely is sure her love is destined to be unrequited.
Her belief is solidified when Boone starts going out with his ex-fiancee, the dastardly Misty.
Of course, not all is as it seems.
Keely harbors secrets that makes her think a future with any man is impossible. But when her criminal father and his friend return to town and threatens her, suddenly unrequited love is the least of her problems.
Of course, Boone comes to the rescue. In both cases.
There are brief glimpses of some recurring characters, including Sheriff Hayes Carson, Cash Grier, Cag and Tess Hart and Officer Kilraven.

Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. Is it sappy? Absolutely. Predictable? Totally. Corny? Of course. And that is why readers love Palmer’s “Long, Tall Texan” stories. Shoot, even the name of the series is sappy and corny.

Hunk appeal: 10. Boone isn’t nearly as cruel and nasty as some heroes are in the beginning of the book, but he’s bad enough that watching him make up for it is satisfying.

Steamy scene grade: XX. He makes up nicely.

Happily-Ever-After: Very good. The great thing about Palmer’s books is that the ending is actually not at the ending. Boone reveals his secrets and his true feelings for Keely. She responds in kind, and they drift into their blissful ending.

Also this week …

REFLECTIONS AND DREAMS
by Nora Roberts (2001 paperback) 4 of 5.

"Reflections and Dreams," has been re-released – again. Actually, it's two books under one cover -"Reflections," the story of retired dancer Lindsay Dunne falling in love with Seth Bannion, and "Dance of Dreams," the tale of Ruth Bannion (Seth's niece and Lindsay's student) falling in love with dancing legend Nickolai Davidov.
In "Reflections" Lindsay is an appealing character whose bluntness and openness is endearing. While she lures Seth to love with no effort, it takes a bit more for him to admit it.
"Dance of Dreams" happens five years later. Seth and Lindsay are blissfully happy with their two children in Connecticut, while Ruth has fulfilled her dream of being a famous ballerina. She finds that falling in love with a dancing legend isn't easy - especially when he loves her back.
Note: Ruth and Nickolai make a brief return appearance in "Considering Kate," the Stanislaski book Roberts' released earlier this year. Check out pages 200-208.

TO CATCH A THIEF

By Christina Skye
HQN (2008), 372 pages, $6.99 (paperback)

“To Catch A Thief” is vintage Christina Skye.
Which is good. And bad.
Skye blends a character and setting from her older (and better) Draycott Abbey series, with a recurring Navy SEAL from her newer, Code Name/Foxfire series.
It would have been better if she’d just stuck with the Draycott storyline.
Not that there is anything wrong with Dakota. But the Foxfire shtick of surgically and experientially enhanced heroes just doesn’t do it for many readers.
At least in this case, it’s a bit more subtle.
Nell is an art restorer, and a serious mountain climber. But while those become valuable assets to the crusading good guys in the story, that’s not what brings her to their attention.
That would be her father, a former (maybe) art thief.
As is often the case in Skye’s tales, the plot is a bit contrived and sometimes frustrating to follow as she alludes to secrets and mysteries. And the entire super secret Foxfire organization with its quirky human experiments and unlikable leader is just hard to take.
Anyway, back to our story. A valuable piece of art is stolen from a museum, and our secret agents discover that the plan is to use it to fund a nasty terrorist group. They suspect Nell’s father of the robbery (and the murder that went along with it) and initially, believe that Nell was an accomplice.
It doesn’t take long for the skeptical and cynical Dakota to doubt Nell’s involvement. But that doesn’t let her off the hook. Dakota and his cohorts use her to locate her father. But even once they find him, they’re not done using her. Dakota isn’t happy about it, but his supervisor insists on using Nell to train Dakota for wall climbing.
Of course the more they’re together, the more their feelings for each other grow. And of course, Dakota becomes another Foxfire operative to break the organization’s rule about no personal involvements.
Oh, the Draycott connection? That would be Nicholas Draycott himself, and part of the story takes place at Draycott Abbey – where Adrian the ghost and his ghost cat Gideon reappear, so to speak.

Overall rating: 3-minus of 5 hearts, a bit more if you’re actually a fan of the Code Name/Foxfire series. Despite the irritating Foxfire bit, the characters are appealing – including recurring mystery man Izzy. If you're looking for authenticity, a story about how Navy SEALS really work, you don't read this. But if you're looking for a light read where a strong hero unwittingly falls for a strong heroine, you’ll probably like it.

Hunk appeal: 10. Dakota finds himself having to choose between “duty and emotion” a couple of times – the “duty” being the mission and his job, the “emotion” being Nell. Would have been nice if he had chosen Nell at least once. Other than that, he was pretty solid, but like his pals from other books, he loses points for being a human experiment.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Definitely solid.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. As is often the case with Skye, the ending dragged out somewhat, but when it finally ended, Nell and Dakota were living happily-ever-after.


Also this week …


INNOCENT AS SIN

by Elizabeth Lowell (2007 hardcover, 2008 paperback) 4-minus of 5.

Sift through way too detailed accounts of various guns, African upheaval, the criminal workings of third world counties, political corruption and banking, and you’ll actually find a pretty good romance.
Rand is a reluctant operative for St. Kilda Consulting, who has been looking for the man who caused his brother’s death. He is assigned to investigate the bad guy’s personal banker. After reading Kayla’s dossier, Rand is convinced she’s a victim, not a crook. And when he meets her, he’s even more convinced.
And smitten.
So while trying not only to survive once in a world of evil but to stop it, the couple embraces their rather instant attraction. Their banter was fun, and their instant devotion to each other endearing.

THE EDGE OF DESIRE

By Stephanie Laurens
AVON (2008), 433 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

There are two problems with reading books written by Stephanie Laurens.
First, she’s wordy, often taking a page when a couple of sentences would do – especially with the more steamy scenes. (Thirteen pages?)
The second problem is despite often having to muddle through the wordiness, Lauren quickly hooks you and forces you care about the plight of the characters, therefore sentencing you to read the entire book.
The good news? You’re ultimately glad you did.
“The Edge of Desire” marries off the final member of the Bastion Club. This was a group of seven men, all former spies, who after the war return to London (around 1816) with the need to find wives. They weren’t interested in the "hen-witted flibbertigibbets" paraded on the marriage mart and they refused to be trapped into marriage by conniving matrons.
So each man found his true love, his soul mate, on his own.
Christian actually met – and fell in love with – his future bride before he went off to fight the war. Letitia loved Christian as well, and promised to wait for him.
But she didn’t.
What will confuse readers – and certainly confuses Christian as well – is that Letitia is just as angry at Christian as he is at her. But she does explain about 127 pages into the book.
The book opens when Letitia appeals to Christian for help. Her husband has been murdered and her beloved brother is the top suspect.
Letitia is much more upset about her brother’s plight than her husband’s fate.
To spare her brother from being wrongly prosecuted for her husband’s murder, and to save her family from ruin, Christian and Letitia team up to find the real murderer.
In the process, they tumble upon quite a mystery – and into several beds.
Letitia realizes just how little she knew about the man she married, and what they discover while seeking his murderer shocks her. And what Christian discovers about his past with Letitia is just as surprising.
While unraveling that mystery, they fall in love in again. But Letitia is afraid of being hurt by Christian again – and Christian is afraid he won’t be able to convince Letitia to take a chance on him again.


Overall rating: 3-plus of 5 hearts. It’s not a book you’ll sit down and read cover to cover. But you will keep going back to it, wanting to unravel the mystery with Christian and Letitia, and waiting for them to embrace their happily-ever-after.

Hunk appeal: 10-plus. Even though Christian unwittingly messed up years earlier, he doesn’t hesitate to accept the blame and take measures to make up for his mistake. He’s protective, heroic, patient and passionate.

Steamy scene grade: XXXXXX. So much that it fogs up the rest of the book at times.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. The bad guy is discovered and thwarted, and Christian and Letitia end up together. And while Christian may be the last of the club members to marry, the gang is most likely to show up again when the mysterious Dalziel finds his true love.

Also this week …

NORTHERN LIGHTS

by Nora Roberts (2004 hardcover, 2005 paperback)

Nora Roberts’ website reports that Lifetime Movie Channel has decided to make four more of her books into movies for 2009. Her latest book, “Tribute,” is being considered along with “High Noon,” “True Betrayals,” “Midnight Bayou,” “Carnal Innocence,” and “Northern Lights.”
“Northern Lights” gets my top vote, ranking as an all-time favorite.
The come alive on the pages. Roberts takes readers a the small Alaskan town in the coldest part of winter, and you may find yourself getting up to grab a blanket while reading.
Nate is "escaping" to Lunacy as he runs from his past. He’s the sheriff.
Meg is a tomboyish loner, a gruff, self-sufficient no-nonsense woman who is perfectly content to remain snowbound alone at her remote home with only her dogs for company.
When a body is found, Nate begins to unravel a mystery from the past - a mystery that involves Meg somewhat. While he sleuths and adjusts to living in Alaska, he slowly falls in love with Meg.
She's not particularly thrilled at first. But the idea grows on her.
My second vote goes to “High Noon.” Roberts does a masterful job of entwining Phoebe and Duncan's romance while spinning a suspenseful story of an evil man's plot to destroy Phoebe. This book is actually more of a suspense novel than a romance story, but romance readers won't feel cheated.
The book I’d vote off the list is “Midnight Bayou," the only Roberts’ book I don’t like. The book’s niche is reincarnation. OK for a while, but it got to be a little much. Perhaps my romance mind just isn't liberal enough.

HOT PROPERTY

By Carly Phillips
HQN (2008), 376 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

Those who thought the “Hot Zone” stories were finished when the third and final Jordan sister married are in for a pleasant surprise.
“Hot Property” returns readers to the New York City public relations firm, immersing them once again in the world of hunky professional athletes.
Centerfielder John Roper takes center stage in this book, after appearing in a support role as Micki’s best friend in “Hot Number.”
The heroine is Amy, niece of Hot Zone partner Spencer Atkins, who was introduced as the daughter and keeper of Atkins’ eccentrically crazy sister in “Hot Item.”
In “Hot Property,” Amy moves to New York to work for her uncle’s public relations and sports agent firm. The story actually starts where “Hot Item” left off, at Sophie and Riley’s wedding.
At the wedding, John is instantly smitten with Amy and starts a flirtation. Problem is, his date walks up while he’s in mid-flirt, and Amy isn’t impressed with a man who would hit on one woman with a date nearby.
A month later, Amy starts her new job and meets her first client: John.
The sparks that sizzled between them at the wedding are still smoldering when they see each other again. But John’s life is infused with problems and it becomes Amy’s job to fix them.
First of all, John is recuperating from an injury – and a disastrous performance in the World Series a few months earlier. But it’s difficult for him to focus on rehabilitating and getting his career back on track with his mother, sister and brother calling him repeatedly, expecting him to solve their problems at their beck and call.
Amy intervenes and convinces him he has to weaken a few family ties and concentrate on his career. Which he does – while he’s concentrating on Amy as well.
John is the first to recognize, accept and embrace love in this relationship. It’s fun to watch a man in love work for the acceptance and love of the woman of his dreams.
Phillips exploded on the romance scene a few years ago with her series on the Chandler brothers, boosted by Kelly Ripa’s enthusiastic endorsement of “The Bachelor.” Since then, she’s gifted readers with several sizzling romances, full of passion and romantic turmoil that culminates in very satisfying happily-ever-afters. “Hot Property” is another of Phillips’ winners, a fun read that will keep you smiling.



Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. An unapologetic romance, with just enough tension to make it interesting without detracting from the love story. You engage with the characters, from the likeable hero and heroine, to their zany relatives. It will make you smile, laugh and sigh.


Hunk appeal: 10-plus. Roper’s devotion to those he loves, his patient seduction of Amy and his willingness and ability to say and do the right things makes him a definite keeper.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. A definite keeper.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Perhaps it’s a big drawn out, but who says that has to be a bad thing?

Also this week …

Strangers in Death (In Death)

by J.D. Robb (2008, paperback) – 5 of 5.

If you missed the most recent story featuring Eve and Roarke when it was released this past winter, you can now pick up a copy in paperback.
And if you haven’t, do it now.
It’s another must-read story in the beloved series about gutsy, tough and dedicated homicide detective Eve and the character that defines romance heroes, Roarke.
Eve's investigation of a murder might borrow a plot device from another well-known mystery writer (no need to ruin the surprise), but that makes it even more fun to read, once you figure it out.
As for the romance? It has Roarke, doesn't it? And while he and Eve have one brief tiff, it's rather humorous and ends well. Otherwise, they're in accord the entire book and enjoy several tender and romantic scenes, as well as witty moments.
And J.D. Robb fans are in for two more treats in the coming months. “Salvation In Death,” is scheduled for release in November, as is “Suite 606” an anthology featuring short story “Ritual In Death.”

FEARLESS

By Diana Palmer
HQN (2008), 315 pages, $24.95 (hardcover)

Warning: Don’t read this book without a box of tissues nearby.
Of course Diana Palmer fans don’t have to be warned.
“Fearless” is another book with ties to Jacobsville, where the rugged hero is set to foil the bad guys but isn’t able to thwart love and the heroine draws the readers’ complete support and sympathy.
Rodrigo was the “loser” in love in “Outsider,” when Sarina and Colby reunited and found their happily-ever-after. What readers didn’t fully realize in that book was how devastated Rodrigo was when his DEA partner, Sarina pursued her bliss with Colby.
Glory is a typical Palmer heroine, a damsel in distress type who has hidden depths and is stronger than she appears. An abusive mother left Glory crippled, but loving – and rich – step siblings came to her rescue. Despite a genetic heart condition, Glory has emerged as a tough assistant district attorney who is forced into hiding when a nasty drug lord she’s prosecuting threatens her life.
She hides at her step-siblings farm in Jacobsville – where Rodrigo is working uncover trying to capture the same drug lord.
So their “courtship” begins cloaked in lies, with neither able to reveal their true identities. Rodrigo decides to marry Glory, but immediately regrets the hasty decision. He treats Glory horribly, and says hurtful things to her that will have you grabbing for those tissues.
Of course, that’s Palmer’s trademark and the appeal of her books: The hero unwittingly hurts the heroine, then feels totally guilty about it and seeks to make amends. In this case, Rodrigo doesn’t know about Glory’s ties to her rich step-family, her successful career or the heart condition that makes her frail. So a few health scares and harsh assumptions puts Rodrigo squarely on that grovel path.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. Typical Diana Palmer: A bit corny, but delightfully romantic with pages that will make you cry and smile. Misunderstandings are such wonderful setups for groveling and it’s fun to watch Rodrigo stumble and fall – and then find solid ground again.


Hunk appeal: 10. Like all of Palmer’s heroes, Rodrigo is a bit rough at times, treating his heroine less than gallantly and making her, and the readers, shed tears. But like all of Palmer’s heroes, he adequately makes amends, feels suitably guilty and fixes everything in time for the happily-ever-after.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. A bit moreso than many of her books.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Perhaps Rodrigo overdoes it a bit, but he had a lot to make up for. He could have cleared up things a bit more satisfactorily verbally, but his actions spoke loudly. A short “epilogue” is a nice touch.

Also this week …

A WHOLE NEW LIGHT

by Sandra Brown (1989, paperback) – 4 of 5. "A Whole New Light," by Sandra Brown is being re-released in paperback. It’s one of the author’s oldies but goodies, a pure romance where love prevails. Cyn, her deceased husband, and Worth were best friends. Two years after her husband's death, Cyn discovers her feelings for Worth are changing. It's like Worth told her, he suddenly saw her in "a whole new light." It takes some time (nearly the entire book) for the couple to accept and deal with their changed relationship. But by the end, they appreciate their love and embark on a sweet happily-ever-after.

SOME LIKE IT WICKED

By Teresa Medeiros
Avon Books (2008), 384 pages, $7.99 (paperback)

“Some Like It Wicked” is a charming story that proves once again that love can conquer all.
Catriona is orphaned as a young girl and sent from Scotland to live with her British uncle. She dreams of returning to the Scotland her father romanticized with tantalizing stories, and returning her clan to its days of glory.
But when her uncle threatens to marry her off to “the next man who walks through that door and asks for your hand” Catriona knows her dreams are in jeopardy. And since she knows who that next man will be, she’s especially worried.
So, she devises a plan.
When she was younger, she met Simon, a dashing soldier who made a lasting impression on Catriona. She followed his military career, harboring a crush on the man who was deemed a hero during a sea battle.
But Simon considers himself a fraud, and returns home to act in the most un-hero-like manner possible. Still, Catriona seeks him out to be her hero.
It just takes him a while to fill that role properly.
Catriona’s plan is to marry Simon, then use her dowry to pay him to escort her to Scotland, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother. Strictly a business arrangement.
Right.
The trip to Scotland is long enough for the two to have some uncomfortable moments trying to resist the growing attraction between them – an attraction that started building the day Simon met the young Catriona in her uncle’s barn.
But the trip isn’t long enough for the couple to succumb to love. That comes a bit later after a few disappointments, a revelation or two and a transformation for Simon.
“Some Like It Wicked” isn’t as fairytale-ish as many of Medeiros’ novels, but it is well written and charming with witty, touching and tender moments. It probably won’t be your favorite Medeiros book, or your favorite of the summer, but it’s a fun story that you won’t regret spending time with.


Overall rating: 4 of 5 hearts. An easy read about a young girl chasing her dreams, and discovering love trumps all. You’ll appreciate Catriona’s spirit and while Simon is disappointing at times, he triumphs by the end.


Hunk appeal: 10. It’s more like Simon emerges as a hero. He’s spent years in self-destruction mode, but Catriona knows the prince she glimpsed years earlier is still in him somewhere. She just doesn’t know how deep that prince was buried. Her faith in him wavered somewhat, but she was rewarded for her trust.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Simon has his moments.

Happily-Ever-After: Good, if perhaps a bit drawn out. Simon does transform into a suitable hero, but is it too late? It’s good to see him have to fight for the woman who has loved him most of her life. When she finally tells him that she would wait for him “forever and a day” he replies, “You’ll never have to wait for me again because I’m never going to leave you.”

Also this week …

Before the Scandal: The Notorious Gentlemen (Avon Historical Romance)

by Suzanne Enoch (2008, paperback) – 3 of 5.

This is a book that will keep you turning the pages with the hopes that the bad guys will get their due and the hero will get his heroine.
And of course, he does. And they do.
Phin’s sister tricks him into returning home, after he spent years away fighting in a war. His guilt over bad behavior that resulted in his brother losing the use of his legs kept him away, as well as his belief that his family didn’t want him around.
When he returns home, he discovers his family’s friendly and helpful neighbor isn’t as friendly and helpful as they think. In fact, he stumbles upon a plot to run his family out of their ancestral home.
Of course, he foils that. And wins the love of long-time friend Alyse as well. It’s difficult to say which was the biggest challenge.
It’s a good book with a likeable hero and a suspenseful-enough story.

NO CHOICE BUT SEDUCTION

Pocket Books (2008), 361 pages, $25 (hardcover)

Even if “No Choice But Seduction” wasn’t a Malory book, it would be a delightfully fun and engaging story guaranteed to leave readers smiling.
But add a substantial presence of beloved Malorys such as James, Georgina and Anthony, and you get a book certain to be savored and cherished by the hoards of Malory fans.
Once again, it’s actually a Malory in-law that shares the lead. Georgina’s brother Boyd is the third to find marital bliss thanks to their connections to the Malory family.
“No Choice But Seduction” has a few twists that will keep you guessing, but it’s the charisma and wit of the characters that will keep you charmed.
Like his brothers, Boyd owns a ship and is on the sea as much as he is on land. But he’s thinking of retiring, and settling on land – in fact, since his sister lives in London he’s thinking of migrating from his American home to there. And, he’s ready to get married and live happily ever after, like his brother Warren (he doesn’t know about Drew’s wedded bliss at the beginning) and sister.
As he stands on the deck of his boat bound for England, he sees Katey board his ship as a passenger. And he decides she would make a good wife.
Problem is, Katey isn’t interested.
After growing up in a small American village, Katey is ready to explore the world – and can do so, thanks to a sizable inheritance. Marriage doesn’t fit into her plans, and recognizing her naivete when it comes to men, she decides the best way to thwart any plans of seduction is to declare herself married.
That works. At first.
Katey soon finds herself embroiled in a bit more adventure than she bargained for, and Boyd doesn’t exactly play the role of knight in shining armor for her. In fact, he casts himself more as the villain in the piece.
Despite her vow to avoid Boyd, Katey ends up spending a lot of time with the man, trying to ignore her growing attraction. Boyd, of course, doesn’t want her ignoring it and continues to try to arouse it.
And her.
Even if you’ve never ready a Malory book, you’ll enjoy this one. While fans of the series will appreciate subtle references to past books, those who haven’t read them won’t be left in the dark.
But bet you’ll want to read more Malory books when you’re done.





Overall rating: 5 of 5 hearts. It’s a fun, witty and engaging read. It does lack the passion that many of Lindsey’s books usually have, but the story takes off on other tangents that makes up for that.


Hunk appeal: 10. Like most of Lindsey’s heroes – even the Malorys – Boyd does falter a bit toward the beginning. But his transgression isn’t as bad as most, and he doesn’t take as long to express remorse and try to make amends. He’s love-struck and acts accordingly during most of the book.

Steamy scene grade: XXXX. Definitely love-struck.

Happily-Ever-After: Good, even though it lacks the punch that Lindsey’s books usually offer. There’s no grand reconciliation, no scene where the hero makes amends for his earlier transgressions. It’s a sweet and happy ending, though.

Also this week …

THE GOLDEN VALKYRIE
by Iris Johansen (1983, paperback) – 3 of 5. This oldie from the author who has since evolved into more suspense-laden novels is an easy, sweet read for someone looking to fritter away few hours on the beach or by the pool.
It’s been re-released with a new look, but it’s the same engaging, simple and old-fashioned type love story that is wonderfully predictable.
Honey is a private investigator. Prince Lance blackmails her into becoming his bodyguard, openly using that as a ploy to seduce her
Of course eventually, Honey decides she wants to be seduced. But she fears that she’s just another notch on the bedpost for the playboy prince known as “Lusty Lance.” While she’s trying to steel her heart so it won’t break when he moves on, she doesn’t notice that Lance shows no sign of leaving.

INTO THE FIRE

Ballantine Books (2008), 477 pages, $25 (hardcover)

Suzanne Brockmann definitely writes a different sort of romance.
The author has evolved through the years, from writing more traditional romance novels to her current series where the love stories take a back seat to suspense, and sometimes social statements.
Which may appeal to many readers.
And not to others.
“Into the Fire” is a rather convoluted story that reads quicker than you might think when you first pick up the rather heavy 477-pager. But bouncing around among five different storylines sometimes gets frustrating.
There’s the main story, featuring Murphy and Hannah.
Flashbacks to Murphy and Hannah’s past.
Izzy and Eden’s story.
Sophia and Dave and Decker.
Nash and Tess.
Granted, Brockmann does a good job of weaving the stories together and blending them at the end. But still, switching to five different storylines can get a bit annnoying at times.
And then there’s the aspect of it not exactly being an uplifting story.
Readers of Brockmann’s latest Troubleshooters series will remember Murphy, whose wife Angelina was tragically shot and killed in “Hot Target.”
So, part of this story is showing how devastated Murphy was when he lost his wife. Which is a definite downer. Hannah was Angelina’s best friend, and a long-time friend of Murphy’s as well. They get together and live happily-ever-after, but the getting there is rather depressing much of the time.
The other stories? Well, Izzy and Eden have a very weird and quick courtship before getting married, and it does not end happily-ever-after. Perhaps it will in a later book?
The Sophia-Dave-Decker triangle takes an interesting turn at the end, but who knows if it’s a permanent situation?
And we just won’t talk about Nash and Tess, the heroes from “Flashpoint,” because it will ruin the surprises there.




Overall rating: 3 of 5 hearts. The good points? The book is well-written and this one doesn’t hit you over the head with social statements. The characters are engaging and several from past books make appearances. The bad? Too many different storylines, and dealing with Angelina’s murder is just too depressing.


Hunk appeal: 10, with shades of minus. You feel sorry for Murphy at the beginning when he’s drunkenly trying to get over his wife’s death, but you’re also quite annoyed with him. When he snaps out of it, it just never quite reaches his full hunk potential.

Steamy scene grade: XXXXX, well, some potential.

Happily-Ever-After: OK. Some storylines end well, some don’t – end well or end at all?

Also this week …

NATURAL BORN CHARMER
by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (2007, paperback) – 5 of 5. The main characters in this book, Dean and Blue, are definitely not perfect.
But they are perfect for each other. And isn't that what counts? Perhaps they don't always react the way we'd like them to. Perhaps their neuroses get in the way a bit. But then again, perhaps it's those neuroses that make them entertaining, engaging and interesting.
"Natural Born Charmer" was released a few weeks ago in paperback, the latest in Phillips' Chicago Stars series about football players, or those associated with them. But you will love it even if you haven't read the other books.
Dean is the star quarterback for the Stars. It's offseason, and he's driving to his farm in Tennessee for a quiet vacation. Then he sees a two-legged beaver walking down the road.
And that should tell you all you need to know about the book.
Blue is wearing the beaver costume and isn't happy about it. She's less than appreciative when Dean offers her a ride. That doesn't mean she turns it down. And that ride leads to a longer ride, which leads to sharing what ends up being Dean's rather bizarre vacation.
And that leads to...well, it's a romance story. Use your imagination.
The story has snappy and witty dialogue, not just between Dean and Blue, but between Blue and her aging, crotchety friend. In fact, the supporting cast is another of the many great things about this book. Each character is, well, a character. They'll make you laugh, they'll make you want to throw the book at them, and they might make you cry just a little, all because you'll really like them. But remember, it all ends happily-ever-after.

DEATH ANGEL

Ballantine Books (2008), 341 pages, $26 (hardcover)
This is not your normal and beloved nice-boy-meets-nice-girl-and-overcomes-obstacles-to-savor-their-love-happily-ever-after sort of book.
Oh, the hero and heroine overcome obstacles all right. The biggest two being their own immorality.
Yes, Linda Howard has definitely given readers a very different sort of romance, and some won’t really appreciate it.
Others will be shocked that they like it.
Drea is the heroine, a woman who has suffered hard times and who used her good looks and smarts to live a life of luxury. Unfortunately, she did that by become the girlfriend of a drug lord.
Of course, it’s hard for Simon to criticize Drea for her “career choice,” since he meets her though his job – an assassin for hire.
The scene where Drea and Simon realize they have “feelings” for each other is rather sordid, and while they may reflect on it fondly later on, chances are you won’t.
The part that will make this work for many readers is the turnaround both characters do after being blessed with a miracle.
The redeeming part of the book is that it’s well-written (of course) and Drea and Simon, while unscrupulous initially, do become rather likeable. And Simon’s ultimate devotion to Drea is rather satisfying as well.
Another positive aspect of “Death Angel” are the bits of surprises sprinkled throughout the book, which makes it hard to summarize without ruining some of those.
So in a general, non-spoiling sort of way, here it is: Drea decides to leave her boyfriend and her life of crime-by-association. Unfortunately, she does that by stealing from drug-dealing boyfriend. Boyfriend hires Simon to kill Drea.
Does he? That’s one of the surprises.
Drea manages to start a new life, but Simon finds her.
The rest….well, miracles do happen and both Drea and Simon experience a whopper. They’ll never be nominated for sainthood, but their attachment to each other makes the final 50 pages or so a pleasure to read. Unfortunately, there are about 250 pages before you get there. Fortunately, while they’re not terribly romantic, they are intriguing enough to keep your interest. And with the promise of a satisfying romance at the end, that may be enough.







Overall rating: 3-plus of 5 hearts. If you can get past and forgive the hero and heroine for their immorality, it’s still a bit frustrating that it takes about 250 pages for them to really begin their relationship. But once they engage, they make up for lost time.

Hunk appeal: 10. Simon makes some choices in the first 200 pages or so that aren’t exactly sterling hero type decisions. But, he does redeem himself somewhat by becoming obsessively devoted to Drea.

Steamy scene grade: XXXXX, and not all very romantic.

Happily-Ever-After: Good. Again, the last 50 pages are romantic enough, with Simon saying and doing all of the right things to prove his love for Drea. Like the rest of the book, the ending may be appreciated by some readers and abhorred by others.

Also this week …

AFTER THE KISS, by Suzanne Enoch (2008, paperback) – 3 of 5. This is the first of a trilogy about “notorious gentlemen,” but in this segment, the hero is the likeable one despite his penchant for robbing houses.
Sullivan is a war hero, who returns home from fighting Napoleon to discover his artist mother recently deceased. All of his possessions, included his mother’s paintings, had been taken away by his father, who never acknowledged Sullivan as his illegitimate son.
So, Sullivan decides to recover the paintings.
Isabel discovers him doing so in her home one night. The spoiled, nasty brat decides to blackmail Sullivan, trying to turn him into a servant while she decides whether or not to report him to the authorities.
Isabel isn’t very likeable. She becomes almost tolerable by the end, when Sullivan finds a way to make their impossible love, possible. But Sullivan, and his friend who is destined to be the hero in the third book, are likeable enough to make up for Isabel and make it a worthy read.