December 24, 2014 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Long Gone Girl, by Amy Rose Bennett

Hot Vintage Read *****

Erotic Romance/18+

Book Blurb

After returning home from the Korean War a widow, former MASH surgical nurse, Ginny Williams, heads to the Jersey Shore for a weekend of much needed R&R. But her plans to do nothing more than relax on the beach go seriously awry when the boy who broke her heart on Prom night nine years ago—the now hotter-than-hot ‘fly-boy’ Jett Kelly—shows up on her patch of sand. To make matters worse, Captain Kelly seems to be on a mission to win her trust, and maybe even her heart again. But the last thing Ginny wants is a man—especially one like Jett—in her life. She’s a career nurse now, and that’s that. If only Jett wasn’t so damned charming and attractive…

US air force pilot, Captain Jefferson ‘Jett’ Kelly Junior is blown away to have stumbled across the beautiful yet shy and bookish girl he used to have a huge crush on in high school—especially now that Ginny is all grown up and sexy as hell. Problem is, she’s also not backward in coming forward when letting him know she hasn’t forgiven him for the Prom-kiss-gone-wrong incident. Even though Jett knows he’ll have his work cut out for him to get a second chance with her, he’s definitely going to give it his best shot…

Despite Ginny’s determination to keep her head—she’s certainly not the naïve girl she used to be—when Jett starts to unashamedly woo her, she soon realizes that maybe her heart didn’t get the memo… (less)

My Review

Erotic Romance 88 pages

Sparkling Vintage Romance

Long Gone Girl is an erotic vintage read that fizzes and hits the spot like classic champagne! It is the second book that I have read by Amy-Rose Bennett (my first, Lady Beauchamp’s Proposal, an erotic Regency noir is on my list of top reads for 2014, which I’m currently pulling together).

It takes place in America in 1953, after the Korean war and is the sweet, sassy and sexy story of a second chance at love between a young widowed nurse and a pilot. Jett was every young girl’s dream at high school and Virginia (Ginny), a shy an bookish young miss, fell hard for him only to be humiliated most publically . Yet Jett has not stopped thinking about Ginny and when their paths converge one weekend at the beach he is once again bowled over by her and vows to make her his.

What follows is a delightfully light hearted erotic romance which heats up the pages. Ginny has grown a lot in confidence since her schooldays yet Jett can still make her blush like a schoolgirl. She is shocked to find that she is still attracted to this man who she views as a player, and trusts him not one inch! However, she reluctantly agrees to spend the day with him. After the death of her husband and the ravages of war she needs to relax more, right? Also what harm can a little fun do especially as she is planning to once again leave her home town to pursue her nursing career?

I loved how determined Jett is not to let Ginny slip though his fingers. He turns on the charm big time to win her trust and her heart, embaking on a seduction plan which aims to break down Ginny’s defences. Yet after their time together how can he convince her that he is playing for keeps?

I found Long Gone Girl to be a fun, feel good read. The dialogue between the couple is sparkling and wtty and they are well suited. The lovemaking scenes (which would make my mother blush) are nor just hot but downright HOT as Jett uses every available weapon in his arsenal to ensure that Ginny does not forget him.

Strongly recommended for romance fans who like a scorching read.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Amazon US Amazon UK

Connect with the Author

http://amyrosebennett.com/

https://www.facebook.com/amyrosebennett.author

Click on the title for my review of Lady Beauchamp’s Proposal

December 21, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Caroline’s Top Reads 2014

Hi readers, it’s that time of year again when Tina and myself have lots of fun going through our reviews of the past year and choose our favourites to share with you! And, wow, there are so many it is difficult to narrow them down!

This is the end of our second full year and we cannot thank you all enough for following us and sharing our posts. We have made so many friends, be they authors, bloggers, agents, publishers and more, it has been overwhelming. We have received our first Christmas card from Australia (pictured), which was an absolute pleasure to receive. It’s amazing to see the sun and summer holiday reminders when the usual card for us is full of snow, log fires and dark evenings.

We hope that you have had a great year and are looking forward to the festive season. We are looking forward to sharing it with you. And I hope that you enjoy us sharing our favourite reads. Tina’s Top Reads will also be coming your way very soon. And here are mine!

Please click on the titles for my full review and much more info!

Contemporary Romance

Books of this genre and some contemporary rom-coms have been a big hit for me this year, and Helena Fairfax’s The Silk Romance was an absolute pleasure to read. It was written so beautifully, powerfully and thoughtfully, and certainly a read you will not forget! It is a Cinderella-type story that is highly intense and completely grips the reader. I have also likened it to some high-profile romance movies in my review as some aspects are similar and captivating!

The Love of Marisol by Christos Toulouras is a short story of love and loss, but with the possibility of finding new love after. It is, again, very powerful and emotive, beginning as quite a dark and realistic read (although fiction). Taking only around an hour to read, it was one of my favourite reading hours of the year!

Contemporary Rom-Coms

As well as the serious side of romance, it is always uplifting and refreshing to read some fun reads, even though they still hold a serious undertone. The book that enlightened me in this manner is C.J. Pinard’s Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) (Duty & Desire #3). It is my favourite book of the Duty & Desire series. It is a light-hearted, fun and cheeky read. And I love how C.J. Pinard follows both Miranda’s career, as well as her romances, and at the same time the reader sees a different side to the friendship that Miranda has with Cara.

Wanting to read a seasonal book at the time, I thoroughly enjoyed An Autumn Crush by Milly Johnson. It was a Bridget Jones style read, with plenty of humour and a real feel-good and refreshing feel that really captured the time of year. And with some sombre storylines for some characters it has an awful lot going on, but is still relaxing and fun to read.

Historical Romance

Lucy Oliver’s novella Summer in Rye is an incredibly intense short story, with power and the ability to grip the reader. Following a new governess to children that have been badly affected by smallpox, and a master that is tyrannical, Eva only has one choice: to turn to the master’s brother, who was once engaged to her. Passion reignites between these two, but after he lied before, can Eva really accept him back?

Paranormal

To top off my favourite paranormal reads is Tim O’Rourke’s Vampire Flappers (Samantha Carter #1.5). Last year the first of the series, Vampire Seeker, was one of my favourites, and again this series has really thrilled me. It has everything from vamps, shifters, action/adventure and time travel! The romance and passion is also very intense, making for a very HOT read! This is a series not to be missed, and I cannot wait to review Vampire Watchmen (Samantha Carter #2) in the new year!

And, not always a huge fan of short stories, this year has certainly changed my point of view. I used to think that to create great characters that full novels would be more fulfilling. However, there are a number of short stories in my top reads this year and a certain series of short stories really blew my mind – Alisa Woods’ True Alpha series. There are six shifter stories, which follow Mia and shifter Lucas, their attraction and heat for each other! Yet, the dilemma is that Lucas lost his last mate, and being to close to another is just not an option. But, when rival shifters kidnap Mia, Lucas has to face his true feelings. Each story is complete with action, heat and intensity. Shifter fans will LOVE this series. Here are the links to each review:-

Desired (True Alpha #1)

Guarded (True Alpha #2)

Hunted (True Alpha #3)

Captured (True Alpha #4)

Sacrificed (True Alpha #5)

Claimed (True Alpha #6)

I am also hoping to review another short A True Alpha Christmas over the coming days before the big day. And, in the new year Alisa Woods will be releasing her Dark Alpha short story series!

Now, for my second entry of author C.J. Pinard we have Soul Rebel. This is my favourite novel of C.J.’s. With plenty of action, suspense and romance it really does have it all. The characters and storyline are brilliant. Nolan loses his soul during a kiss with a female succubus in a nightclub and he only has 7 days to claim his soul back! Time constraints cause the tension and really make the pace quick. Plus there are many surprises which make it an exciting read.

Recommended for the younger adult (15yrs+) Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal trilogy #1) by Pat Spence is an enchanting and fairytale-like read with supernatural mystery and horror. It is highly recommended to fans of the Twilight saga, but without the vamps. It follows the idea of eternal youth, ancient links and an attraction between Emily (17) and the handsome Theo. It is highly emotive, with a great eerie atmosphere as the reader gets sucked in to the mystery. Blue Moon is a fantastic beginning to this trilogy.

Horror

This year saw the final instalment of Tim O’Rourke’s Moon trilogy, Moonshine (The Moon trilogy, #3). A paranormal horror series that has it all; action and adventure, vamps, weres, heart-warming moments and plenty of surprises. The running theme through the trilogy is whether or not vamps and weres can exist in peace together. Or, will they both have to try and annihilate each other? Will the love of Winnie be enough to hold it all together? (Clicking on the links for books 2 and 3 may spoil the storyline for those who haven’t read book one.)

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy #1)

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy #2)

Crime Thriller

Cold Call by Colin Llewelyn Chapman, was an instant like for me. After being likened to author Martina Cole, Luther (BBC tv series) and with a pinch of Fifty Shades, Cold Call proved to be a gritty, well-planned read that follows both the suspect and the police with their investigation into the deaths of several women from seedy backgrounds. This is another read with surprises along the way that will keep you gripped until the end.

Dustin Stevens’ 21 Hours is full of action and suspense as an uncle and ex-con is attempting to save his two year old niece after she has been kidnapped. Being an ex-con he is not entirely trusted by the authorities, but he is so desperate that he will do anything! I have likened it to some action movies, such as Lethal Weapon, Commando, Ransom and Con Air as there are some elements of these in the book and especially in they way it left me feeling after I had read it. It is also another read that is quick-paced, partly due to the time that it is believed that the young girl has left!

Ooh, and now for some Festive Contemporary reads

As an added treat, and because they were brilliant reads, I thought I would share the following two festive reads:

C.L. Scholey’s Candy Cain is a short 55 page read that is festive, hot and full of suspense. After being snowed in during a blizzard and left on a desolate road, with only the stranger that she dislikes after briefly bumping into him earlier, the only way they can keep warm is by body heat! Hmm, I wonder where this will lead and what the outcome will be for them? There are also heart-warming moments and an underlying storyline about helping those in need.

And finally, a full-length story with a Christmas build-up, new friendships and a new romance in Amy Silver’s All I Want for Christmas. Beginning from the fourteenth of December, the story is written with each chapter being a new day in the lead up to the big day, when there are plans at The Honey Pot café for people of the neighbourhood to meet for a party of food and friendship for the lonely.

I have read many more great reads that I cannot possibly add due to the amount I have here. Crossing many genres, I always hope that there are reads in here to suit many, and I feel that there is a great mix of both published and indie authors.

I hope that you enjoy our posts and would like to thank each and everyone of you for following and supporting us. I sincerely wish you a Merry Christmas and an absolutely brilliant New Year!

Caroline Barker 🙂

If you would like to check our Top Reads of 2013 to recap on our previous year, you can do so here:-

Caroline’s Top Reads 2013

Tina’s To Reads 2013

December 18, 2014 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Tempting His Mistress, by Samantha Holt

Sensual Victorian Romance

Book Blurb

What could possibly induce at woman to follow in the footsteps of her mother and further sully her reputation by becoming a mistress?

Lilly Claremont is well used to being at the centre of gossip. Being the illegitimate child of a rich businessman never failed to titillate the gossips and while she cared little about the wagging tongues she never intended to reinforce their opinions of her by ruining herself completely.

But it seems Lord Hawksley is determined to make the fascinating Lilly his mistress…

Evan has no doubt her bold tongue and beautiful body could keep him entertained for some time. Captivated by her, he must find a way to burn through his desire for her. He cannot marry a woman of such social standing so why not make her his mistress?

After the murder of her father, Lilly is searching for answers and they lead her directly to Lord Hawksley. But will they also lead her to his bed…?

My Review

A Sensual Delight!

Loved, loved, loved Samantha Holt’s foray into Victoriana! Tempting His Mistress has a strong hero and heroine and a sensual and suspenseful plot. It also touches on a number of burning social issues of the day pertinent to women and their role in society and how much their lot in life was controlled by men.

The heroine Lilly, as an illegitimate child of a businessman and his mistress, is in a real pickle and I felt for her immediately. Her mother is deceased and she has no one to support her after her father’s sudden and violent death, having to rely upon the charity of others. She is introduced to Lord Hawksley, aware of a rumour of his involvement in her father’s demise. Immediately wary, at the same time she wants to find out if he is guilty or not. Sparks fly when they meet and I adored the repartee between the couple!

Lord Hawksley is entranced by Lilly’s open and forthright manner and mutual attraction sizzles. When his brother, a married man, mentions making Lilly his mistress, Lord Hawksley cannot contemplate the thought of her being ruined by his own brother and makes the offer himself. At first shamed and angered by his proposition Lilly, conscious of her penniless state, acquiesces. She also hopes that she will be able to find out the truth about Lord Hawksley’s involvement in her father’s death.

What starts out as a business arrangement develops into something stronger and emotions come to the fore. Lord Hawksely recognises that it will be difficult to let her go once their arrangement is over. Marriage between a lord and a social outcast such as Lilly is, of course, unthinkable. Not only that but he has his own reasons for not wanting to marry….

Lilly discovers that there is a lot more to the sardonic lord than she thought and she knows that he has secrets. When danger threatens will the couple be drawn together or forced apart? Also how can they find a HEA given the social mores of the time?

Samantha Holt deals sensitively with the role of mistresses in Victorian Society and the plot explores other issues pertaining to women, which are at the forefront of political debate at the time, such as women’s education and their place in wider society. The double standards experienced by Lilly as a lord’s mistress are particularly heartbreaking.

The sizzling scenes (of which here are many) are divine and the relationship between Lily and Lord Hawksley is strong and believable. The couple are just made for each other – a tortured alpha male with secrets and vulnerabilities, and a woman, although viewed as below him in social station, is one who calms and excites him like no other.

The supporting characters are well drawn and it is clear that the author has done a great deal of research into the social issues of the time to give the novel just the right amount of colour without detracting from the plot and the central romance.

Another must read for romance fans from this author.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Author Links

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK

Check out Samantha Holt’s Once Upon a Rake, also set in Victorian England.

Amazon UK Amazon US

December 17, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Review Round Up December ’14

Hi readers, we hope that you’re Christmas preparations are going well and that you are not too stressed with all of the arrangements, shopping and wrapping to do! Here is the last Review Round Up of 2014! As usual, there are quite a few genres with the fourteen books that we have reviewed, and we do hope that they pique your interest. (For the full review please click on the titles.)

You may be pleased to hear that we will both be doing our Top Reads of 2014 over the holidays. We have had the pleasure of reading many great reads and look forward to sharing them!

Enjoy!

Caroline & Tina ❤

Invasion Earth (Delroi Connection #1) by Loribelle Hunt, erotic/sci-fi romance (reviewed by Tina)

In the distant future, Earth has been ravaged by war and famine, and after generations of bloodshed settles into peace only to be invaded by the alien Delroi. General Alrik Torfa needs a mate and his seers promise mates for many of his people on the distant planet Earth. He doesn’t expect her to come easily, but is more than a little surprised to find her leading an enemy army. Outmanned and outgunned, there is no way the Earth forces can win.Sergeant Major Laney Bradford has always played her part and served her people well, but the demands of the Delroi’s surrender are a bit extreme. Marriage? To one of them? Not likely. But she’s fought for peace her entire life and when surrender talks are threatened by a conspiracy led by her people, Laney must choose. Will she submit to the alien invader or lead the fight against him?

Entropy by Robert Raker, dark crime drama, thriller suspense (reviewed by Caroline)

When a series of child abductions and murders disrupt the life of an economically blighted community, the consequences have far-reaching implications. The brutal crimes take a different toll on a disparate group of individuals; the scuba diver who retrieves the children’s bodies; the disfigured cellist who thinks he knows who’s responsible; the undercover federal agent; and the mother of one of the victim’s.
United in a situation not of their choosing, they are forced to take a deep, introspective look into their intersected, yet isolated lives.

To Avenge Her Highland Warrior (Highland Fae Chronicles #3) by Samantha Holt, historical romance, fantasy (reviewed by Tina)

Lorna lost everything to war. Her home, her wealth… her lover. And now she wants revenge. When her hasty plan throws her at the mercy of her enemy’s men, she holds little hope of returning to her kin and fears death is around the corner. But could her salvation lie in the arms of her dark captor? Logan has little time to be dealing with a stubborn noble woman. His orders are to prepare for war. His laird—the man he owes his life to—intends to join forces with the Norse and bring a battle to Scotland that will see the fate of the country forever changed. Scarred, and with no memory of his past, Logan is determined to forge a new future for himself as well as prove his loyalty to the laird. But the beautiful lass has him questioning his previous life and his goals. When she starts claiming he once loved her, he knows he’s being manipulated and she’s taking advantage of his memory loss. So why is it so hard to resist the idea of having once been her lover? With the threat of impending war—a battle that promises to bring slaughter to her family—can Lorna persuade Logan to believe her, and is the bitter man he’s become even worth saving? Whatever the outcome of the battle, a certain interfering faery is resolved to see fate back on its correct path. And that means forcing Lorna and Logan together—no matter their differences.

Cold Call by Colin Llewelyn Chapman, dark crime drama, thriller (reviewed by Caroline)

Wealthy entrepreneur Robin Bradford had it all – the house, the cars, the fine dining – and he lost it all. All except Lizzie, his perfect, loving girlfriend. Down on his luck and with no immediate prospects in business, Robin’s energies found another outlet, Just a little something spicy to bide his time until his financial world recovered, leading him down a very seedy path, onto a very rocky road. Time however was all he had, and all he was going to get.

Due to violence, drug references and sexual content, readers are recommended to be of 18yrs+.

Bend, Don’t Break (Irrevocable #2) by Skye Callahan, dark erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

I thought I was done.
my End
I couldn’t take my eyes off her as the bullet tore through me, leaving me with nothing but the hope that I had done enough to save her. The darkness tried to engulf me—to brand me as its own and drag me to my fate.
my Darkness
Waking to see her tear-stained face above me was enough to make my heart stutter. I was alive and free from that place—but not from the toll it had taken on my mind and body.
my Strength
My story should have ended, but one woman kept standing in the way of that. The only way I could have her was to find a way to put the darkness to rest.

Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) (Duty & Desire #4) by C.J. Pinard, contemporary military romance, romantic comedy, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Miranda Cates finally graduates from college and is excited to begin her dream career in law enforcement. After the final betrayal and heartbreak of her college boyfriend, Chris, she moves back home with a firm plan in place for her life.

However, the life she has carefully mapped out for herself takes a serious left turn. Miranda finds she not only has to be strong for herself, but for the daughter who hadn’t been part of her plan.

Determined to still believe in true love, life throws Miranda one more wicked curveball. She meets Jace Lawless, a hot minor league baseball player, whose warm aqua eyes and big dimple have her unraveling her carefully laid plans. A man who may be just be too good to be true.

Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) is book 3 in the Duty & Desire series, and while it is recommended to read the books in order, it’s not necessary.

An Autumn Crush by Milly Johnson, contemporary romantic comedy (reviewed by Caroline)

In the heart of the windy season, four friends are about to get swept off their feet…

Newly single after a bruising divorce, Juliet Miller moves into a place of her own and advertises for a flatmate, little believing that, in her mid-thirties, she’ll find anyone suitable. Then, just as she’s about to give up hope, along comes self-employed copywriter Floz, and the two women hit it off straight away.

When Juliet’s gentle giant of a twin brother, Guy, meets Floz, he falls head over heels. But, as hard as he tries to charm her, his foot seems to be permanently in his mouth. Meanwhile, Guy’s best friend Steve has always had a secret crush on Juliet – one which could not be more unrequited if it tried…

As Floz and Juliet’s friendship deepens, and Floz becomes a part of the Miller family, can Guy turn her affection for them into something more – into love for him? And what will happen to Steve’s heart when Juliet eventually catches the eye of Piers – the man of her dreams?

Apartment 2B by K. Webster, Adult contemporary paranormal romance (reviewed by Tina)

Sidney has a rough life. Her mom is incredibly abusive both mentally and physically. One day, she’s awarded the escape she’s always wanted and thrust into a world she barely understands. Each day is a struggle to feel human and not terrified of everything around her.

Sidney has rules. Routines. Structure. It’s the only way she can cope

When a handsome, yet mysterious stranger inserts himself into her life, Sidney begins to come apart at the seams. She’s having trouble sticking to her habits and it’s threatening to shred any hope of a normal life to pieces. Will this stranger help her in ways no other person can, or will things get worse for her?

He comes with his own set of problems and secrets he’s unwilling to share. Will they work together through the mess of their pasts or will they get caught up enabling each other? Will their toxic relationship ultimately be destined for demise?

Mist Unveiled (Elemental Desire #1) by Nancy Corrigan, erotic paranormal romance (reviewed by Tina)

Cat has one love in her life—science. Facts rule her, not passion. At least it doesn’t until an unknown deadly virus claims her sister’s life. Cat’s quest for answers takes her to Greenland and drops her into the arms of the one man who sways her devotion from logic to passion. Rune stirs her lusts, ignites her desires and fuels her carnal cravings, but he isn’t simply a lover, nor is he human. He’s a weapon, one that has the potential to save or destroy her.

Rune, a child of the mist, awakens into a world hovering on the verge of destruction. Rising temperatures have released his enemies from their frozen prison without his knowledge. He searches for them but finds Cat, a human with the power to save him and the world. He hungers for her—blood, body and soul. Every moment of shared passion convinces him of the truth—she’s his greatest treasure, one he’ll die to keep.

Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives (Virginia #1, Lana #2 & Nella #3) by Rhian Cahill, Cate Ellink & Cathleen Ross, erotica (reviewed by Tina)

Cool, collected, confident – those who know Virginia in her personal and professional life would never expect to find her in Boyd’s, a bar across town from her circle of friends and socialite world. But Boyd’s offers her something she can’t get among her rarefied acquaintances: sex. Rough, hard, mind-blowing, anonymous sex. In her casual clothes, she’s no one important. Incognito, unnoticed by everyone except one: the bartender who knows her drink order – and would like to know a whole lot more.

Lana by Cate Ellink: Lana lives her life by her own rules – and she has very few. What she wants, she goes for, and she very rarely fails. So when a young, handsome waiter at her favourite restaurant catches her eye, she has no hesitation in asking him to escort her home. But one night of passion opens up exciting new possibilities, and a chance for Lana to enact one of her deepest, most illicit fantasies.

Nella by Cathleen Ross: Nella is one hundred percent in control of her life – all aspects of her life. She excels at knowing what everyone needs, and in meeting those needs. So when it comes to her husband, Michael, and his deepest desires and most fundamental requirements, she is committed, creative, and unswerving in her responsibilities. A strong man needs a strong woman, and Nella’s love is as strong as steel.

Cursed (Cursed trilogy #1) & Obsession (Cursed trilogy #2) by Georgina Hannan, young adult paranormal horror (reviewed by Caroline)

Cursed: Reality and Myths collide.
A young adult story about a group of four friends who embark on a holiday together to the gorgeous countryside of Dartmoor, Devon. Each of them hoping for an adventure, something they will always remember. However it isn’t long before they get what they want.

The group are plagued by noises after hearing the myths and legends of the area. Is it just their overactive imaginations or is there a visitor in the spare room who is trying to get their attention?

Join the group on a spectacular journey as they discover what Dartmoor has to offer.

Obsession: There’s a fine line between Obsession and Madness.

After a strange and exciting holiday, Daisy is looking forward to the new start University life will bring.

A life changing assignment makes her question the fine line between Obsession and Madness.

Can she tell the difference?
Can you?

Candy Cain (festive short story) by C.L. Scholey, hot, contemporary romance, festive (reviewed by Caroline)

Candy is on top of the world. She’s a high priced corporate lawyer with expensive cars, time on her hands, and money to burn. Although, she has no one to burn it on, except for a yearly ritual of buying toys and treats for the needy at Christmas time.

Cain is an egotistical enigma. A very deprived and hurting enigma, who feels wishes are for fools. A car accident leaves them stranded together, and the two have no choice but to warm each other’s cold bodies, lest they freeze to death.

As the temperature dips outside, the heat begins to sizzle inside. Candy and Cain, though worlds apart in society, begin to feel perhaps they have more in common than either could ever wish for.

Will they both discover the miracle of Christmas wishes isn’t just for the very young?

A Way From Heart to Heart by Helena Fairfax, contemporary romance (reviewed by Caroline)

After the death of her husband in Afghanistan, Kate Hemingway’s world collapses around her. Kate’s free time is spent with a charity for teenage girls, helping them mend their broken lives – which is ironic, since her own life is fractured beyond repair.

Reserved, ex-public school journalist Paul Farrell is everything Kate and her teenage charges aren’t. But when Paul agrees to help Kate with her charity, he makes a stunning revelation that changes everything.

But can Kate take a risk with her son’s happiness as well as her own?

The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen, historical romance, religious (reviewed by Tina)

Believing herself guilty of a crime, Olivia Keene flees her home, eventually stumbling upon a grand estate where an elaborate celebration is in progress. But all is not as joyous as it seems. Lord Bradley has just learned a terrible secret, which, if exposed, will change his life forever. When he glimpses a figure on the grounds, he fears a spy or thief has overheard his devastating news. He is stunned to discover the intruder is a scrap of a woman with her throat badly injured. Fearing she will spread his secret, he gives the girl a post and confines her to his estate. As Olivia and Lord Bradley’s secrets catch up with them, will their hidden pasts ruin their hope of finding love?

December 14, 2014 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ The Silent Governess, by Julie Klassen

Regency Historical Romance

Inspirational/Christian Read

Book Blurb

A Beautiful Romantic Read

The Silent Governess is a beautiful sweet Regency romance, with Christian undertones by Julie Klassen. It is reminiscent of the novels of Victoria Holt in that is has a Gothic flavour.

It is expertly researched and has an ingenious and page turning plot, containing plenty of mystery and suspense pertaining to the hero and heroine including family secrets and threatening characters. I rooted for the heroine, Olivia, from the off. She is a strong and thoroughly likeable young woman who is fleeing a crime scene. Her actions greatly assist the emotional journey that the hero embarks on as he comes to terms with new found secrets from his own past.

The hero, Lord Bradley, is a handsome, honourable and competent young man, however, he is very much the product of his aristocratic upbringing and his actions towards the heroine are not always kind. He did grew on me a great deal as the story progresses and he comes to learn a great deal about what really matters in life.

The characterisations are excellent and the romance, central to the plot, evolves realistically, over time. Olivia is quickly attracted to her employer but Lord Bradley, although increasingly fascinated and drawn to her beauty inside and out, shies away from admitting his attraction to himself, due to the differences in their station. Yet he comes to realise that in reality there is not much that separates them after a series of unexpected plot twists. Their evolving romance is truly beautiful to behold.

The read expertly illustrates the social mores of the time, including the perceived gulf between the upper classes and those in service. It is especially instructive in painting a realistic picture of the lonely life of a governess. It also documents the rural society around the great houses and the ties between the church, village and the role the aristocracy played in managing their estates. I particularly loved how each chapter has a contemporaneous quote from the era reflecting the times.

This is the first book that I have read by Julie Klassen and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Silent Governess transported me to the Regency era and swept me away into the emotions of the characters. I recommend it to romance lovers who like a sweet romantic read.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Buy Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Connect with the Author

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Goodreads

March 20, 2014 by Tina Williams

Transcendence, by Shay Savage

Totally, Utterly and Completely Spellbinding!

Time travel romance/science fiction/historical Adult read

Transcendence is one of those rare books that as soon as I started I COULD NOT PUT DOWN! My mind was totally fixated on the characters and the world that the author Shay Savage had created, wondering what would happen next. It is a love story like no other and it is difficult to shoe-horn into one particular genre, as it encompasses time travel, science fiction, historical romance and is also a super sensual and erotic read.

Book Blurb

It is said that women and men are from two different planets when it comes to communication, but how can they overcome the obstacles of prehistoric times when one of them simply doesn’t have the ability to comprehend language?

Ehd’s a caveman living on his own in a harsh wilderness. He’s strong and intelligent, but completely alone. When he finds a beautiful young woman in his pit trap, it’s obvious to him that she is meant to be his mate. He doesn’t know where she came from; she’s wearing some pretty odd clothing, and she makes a lot of noises with her mouth that give him a headache. Still, he’s determined to fulfill his purpose in life – provide for her, protect her, and put a baby in her.

Elizabeth doesn’t know where she is or exactly how she got there. She’s confused and distressed by her predicament, and there’s a caveman hauling her back to his cavehome. She’s not at all interested in Ehd’s primitive advances, and she just can’t seem to get him to listen. No matter what she tries, getting her point across to this primitive, but beautiful, man is a constant – and often hilarious – struggle.

With only each other for company, they must rely on one another to fight the dangers of the wild and prepare for the winter months. As they struggle to coexist, theirs becomes a love story that transcends language and time.

As soon as the book opens we are introduced to the hero, Ehd and learn about his lonely existence and his struggle to get though the harsh winter since the fire that destroyed his village and tribe a year past. I felt his delight when he discovered a young woman in his animal trap. He is extremely attracted to her form and believes her to be his ideal mate despite her strange clothes and behaviour. It is a mystery where the woman Eizabeth (whom he calls Beh) has come from but Ehd has an overwhelming desire to provide for her, protect her and impregnate her as she is HIS!

It would have been so easy for this book to have cast Ehd as a alpha male who immediately bends the heroine to his will and compels her to accept his sexual advances, but instead Ehd is a beta male through and through, empathising with Elizabeth’s initial fear and her ocassional tears and sadness. He is often frustrated at not understanding her and also when she repels his sexual advances.

Beh’s reactions to waking up and finding herself in an alien landscape and being plucked from the trap by Ehd is realistic, as is how she struggles to adapt to her new reality. Initially she is forced to stay with Ehd to survive, but slowly grows to trust him and shares her own innovations with him to ensure their survival in this harsh world. Their blossoming romance is truly beautiful to behold and when they do ‘get it together’ the scenes are extremely sensual as the couple explore each others bodies and communicate to each other their intimate and carnal needs.

In addition to the originality of the plot and the well drawn characterisations the author’s masterstroke is writing the novel in the first person POV of Ehd. Much of our emotional journey throughout the novel is therefore with Ehd, which is highly unusual in a romance novel. However, such is the skill of the author that we are left with little doubt as to how Elizabeth is bearing up in the strange new world she finds herself in and what she feels about her relationship with Ehd. I LOVED the many humorous and touching scenes in the novel where the couple struggle to communicate what they want and need from each other and Ehd strives to prove to Beh that he is the perfect mate for her. Ehd and Beh are without doubt an unforgettable hero and a heroine!

Transcendence is one of my fave reads of this year and I will definitely be checking out other books by Shay Savage. I recommend it to readers who love historical novels, science-fiction or time travel tales with the focus very much on the psychology of the relationship between the hero and heroine.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Cover Design by Mayhem Cover Creations

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Connect with the Author

http://www.shaysavage.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ShaySavage7289

November 23, 2013 by Tina Williams

Tina’s Autumn Harvest of Reads

A Selection of Books from my ‘To Read Pile’

Like all other avid readers I have oodles of books on my ‘to read pile.’ I have winkled out just some of them to share them with you. I hope to read some of them over the coming months, now the temperature has dropped and the nights are longer.

Of course I’m always pleased to consider any requests for reviews in addition to the books on this list, as this is a great way to find out about new authors and genres!

As the list is a bit of a smorgasbord I’ve put the books into a number of categories. Click on the book title to take you to the Goodreads or Smashwords link. Also look out for our update post later this week in which we list the books that we plan to review in the next few weeks.

Tina 🙂

Contemporary

Wild Water, by Jan Ruth – WINNER of the Cornerstones Literary Consultancy ‘Most Popular Book’ Competition 2011. Also listed in the 2013 eFestival of Words Award Nominations. The story of forty-something estate agent Jack, stressed out by life and the feeling that he and his wife are growing apart. What happens when he discovers that she is having an affair and is pregnant? At the same time he becomes reacquainted with his childhood sweetheart, Anna…….

Captured. My Sworn Enemy, My Secret Lover, books 1 and 2, by Eve Rabi – Sargent Megan Saunders is captured by Islamic militants, held as a slave and forced to deliver inflammatory speeches against the US. During an escape attempt she is raped. Her rapist Reed, insists she proceeds with the pregnancy. Megan is already married and due to her inflammatory speeches, she is now regarded as a terrorist. She finds herself drawn to Reed and before long they enter into a relationship which is far beyond sexual and which has massive repercussions.

Historical

Love’s Revenge, by Monica Burns – When Quentin Blackwell, Earl of Devlyn, discovered the woman he loved was carrying another man’s child, he refused to marry her. In retaliation her father ruined Devlyn. When Sophie Hamilton, the man’s eldest daughter, makes him an offer, he seizes the chance for vengeance. Yet this could cost him what he wants the most, Sophie’s love. On the shelf at forty-one, Sophie accepts her fate until she impulsively makes a rash proposal to escape a life of servitude and right a wrong at the same time. She never expected Devlyn to accept her rash proposal and to fall in love with a younger man. Rating: Contains graphic sexual content, adult situations, and explicit language.

Disciplining the Duchess, by Annabel Joseph – The bookish Harmony Barrett has repelled every gentleman of consequence and caused a debacle so horrifying that her waltzing privileges are revoked. Through a vexing series of events, the Duke of Courtland finds himself shackled to Miss Barrett. But all is not lost. The duke harbors a not-so-secret affinity for spanking and discipline and his new wife is ever in need of it. Will the mismatched couple find happiness? Or will the duke be forever be Disciplining the Duchess? An adult read.

Daughter of the Sky, by Michelle Deiner – The sole survivor of a shipwreck, 15 year-old Elizabeth Jones is taken in by the Zulus. Six years later, she becomes useful as a spy to find out why the Victorian Empire appears about to attack. Her disguise as a soldier is uncovered by Captain Jack Burdell, who believes her tale of searching for a missing brother and he shields her. But as they explore their mutual attraction, the armies move closer and Elizabeth is torn between the guilt of betrayal and her loyalty to her Zulu family. When the battle commences she and Jack are caught in the crossfire.

Ragnar The Murderer (Ragnar the Dane #1), Lily Byrne – In East Anglia under the Danelaw, half breed Dane, Ragnar, tries to fit in but feels like an outcast. When he meets the English Aelfwyn they begin a passionate affair, but she is promised to another and forbidden to consort with Danes. When her betrothed is murdered, Ragnar is the obvious suspect. Is he guilty or just a pawn?

Fantasy

Taken to the Ebon Court, Elena Han – When a half-demon general conquers Irizel’s homeland, he claims her, drawn by her beauty and bloodline. Upon discovering she’s a healer, he forces her to accompany him to the Ebon Court–a nest of political intrigue and carnal decadence–so that she might heal his hybrid infertility, demanding that she must bear his child… An erotic dark fantasy romance. Adult read.

The Ritual (Theft and Sorcery #1), by Erica Dakin – For Chiarin, a young half-elf thief, life is about survival as she is considered an outcast and every day could bring her death. She meets a master thief Zashter, who unexpectedly takes her on as his pupil, and draws her into a dangerous adventure gathering powerful magical items for a sinister employer. What purpose these items will serve Chiarin does not know, but it soon becomes apparent that Zashter should not be trusted. Yet amutual attraction grows and there is no going back…..

Rowena through the Wall, by Melodie Campbell – Rowena falls through her classroom wall and lands in an alternate world. Her adventures include being kidnapped, gathering unwanted husbands and falling for the wrong brother. Can she return through the wall? Warning: This book is not a ‘sweet’ romance – it is a sexy, funny, rollicking adventure with a spunky heroine and the medieval ‘men’ of her dreams!

Sci-Fi

Promises to Keep (Gaian Stories #1) , by Janet Miller- In the future, with Earth near barren and men willing to commit to marriage almost non-existent, a group of young women leave to find husbands in the Outer Colonies. En route they’re hijacked by men from a rebel planet called Gaia. Gaian men can only make love to a woman they match and Dr. Sarah Johnson is the match for the most hated Gaian of all, General Garran Doranth…….

Historical Western

Love and Betrayal on the Santa Fe, Lisa Day – In 1859 Calico Benson, a gentle bred woman wanting the security of marriage and family, answered an ad in the “Matrimonial News,” where men were advertising for wives. Along with five other women, she sets out on the Santa Fe Trail hoping to find love. Instead they found a hellish nightmare journey. Will their dreams be fulfilled or lost?