Monday, January 30, 2012

Princess Charming by Nicole Jordan

Cinderella is one of my all time favorite fairy tales so I was excited to finally read a book by Nicole Jordan when I saw she was going to be doing her own spin on the tale.  We have all the classic elements: a dashing prince in the form of Ashton Wilde, Marquis of Beaufort and our lovely, 'lowly' Cinderella in Maura Collyer, horse breeder.  Maura is devastated when her stepmother (not a total villianess which I liked) sold her beloved champion stallion to pay for her two step-sisters seasons (again, very likable girls which I liked).  The horse was sold to the man Maura believes caused her fathers death, as he has always converted her horse.  But as the slimy viscount proves too much for Mauras temper, Ash (whose sisters are Mauras best friends) tries to step in and help the situation.  This doesn't exactly go over very well with the bold, passionate Maura but sparks start to ignite and it causes our couple to come together...eventually :)

Overall, for my first Nicole Jordan book I was very happy.  I love stories that are centered around big, lovable, "Wilde" families and this looks to be a great start to a possible five books for the Wilde family.  I enjoyed how even though Maura and Ash have known each other since childhood, there new found attraction to each other seemed natural.  The part that really piped my interest was the fact that Maura was a horse breeder.  A very unusual profession for females during that time period.  We don't get to see much of that unfortunately, but it adds a unique back story.  I personally don't know if I would go abduct a horse and try to flee with it, but you could really feel Maura's passion for her beloved horse.  There are some wonderful supporting characters that add some good family moments, but don't overshadow our main couple.  Ash and Maura have loads of sexual tension but Ash is hesitant to fully bed Maura as he believes she will marry someday, even though Maura believes she is almost on the shelf and has no dowry, title, or real prospects in that regard.  I had about forgotten about the important glass slipper of Cinderella, and Ash's slipper moment was all too fitting for this story and it brought a sweet smile to my face.  While this isn't my favorite Cinderella retelling, it was certainly enjoyable and I breezed through it in a couple afternoons and I look forward to the rest of the series.  I would recommend this book for people that enjoy sweet and sexy fairy tale retellings, mixed with a warm, big family and a bit of uniqueness and danger.  3 1/2 stars

Legendary Lovers series 

Lover Be Mine Later 2012 (Jack's story based on Romeo and Juliet)
More books to be annouced

Friday, January 27, 2012

A Secret in Her Kiss by Anna Randol

Attention grabbing cover?  Check.  Unique historical setting?  Check.  A smart and sassy heroine?  Check.  A hero destined to protect her, no matter the cost to himself, his country and his heart?  Check.  Great writing from a debut author?  Yup, another check.

Obviously the biggest thing that drew me to this book was the unique setting.  The entire book is set in Constantinople and with that came the lush descriptions of the land and fashions, which were done very well.  I really enjoyed our strong heroine, Mari and her belief that she can protect herself even though her life has been in danger before due to her secretive drawings.  When the overbearing, Adonis looking Major Bennett Prestwood arrives to protect her during her last mission, the gloves are drawn on both sides and the sparks fly. 

For a debut I was very happy with this book.  The storyline was interesting and moved quickly along.  There is a sweet side story that was enjoyable and I really did not see the big reveal at the end of the villain.  The chemistry between Mari and Bennett was smoldering and the little attentions to detail were fabulous.  It is so refreshing to read a historical that is set within a unique setting that gave me glimpses of the new area without overwhelming me with too many details.  There is just enough freshness that will have you finishing up this books with a wonderful smile on your face.  I would have liked an epilogue, but that is just me.  I love epilogues :)  If you are in the mood for a fresh location and storyline that features a strong couple amongst danger and intrigue, Anna Randol looks to be an author on the rise if her debut is any indication.  4 stars

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

End of January releases!

Wow, I can't believe it is almost the end of January already!!  Here are some of the upcoming releases I am most looking forward too.

Heiress Without a Cause (Muses of Mayfair, #1)A Lady Never Surrenders (Hellions of Halstead Hall #5)This one just came out on the 24th and it is the highly anticipated conclusion to Sabrina Jeffries Hellions of Halstead Hall series and it is already downloaded on my Kindle and I hope to read it soon.

Also releasing on Jan 24th, but just for you lucky Nook owners (the rest of us have to wait until Feb 21st, I think) is a debut from Sara Ramsey that sounds good!


Here is a look at all the great titles releasing on the 31st!  Four great debuts from Jillian Stone, Anna Randol, Manda Collins and Sophie Barnes.  Plus a the start of a wonderful new series from Lorraine Heath and a new series from Nicole Jordan, a continuation from Jennifer Haymore (a novella and a full length out on the same day) and from Victoria Alexander and a conclusion from Stephanie Laurens.

An Affair with Mr. Kennedy (The Gentlemen of Scotland Yard, #1)A Secret in Her KissHow to Dance with a Duke (Ugly Ducklings, #1)How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back

She Tempts the Duke (The Lost Lords of Pembrook, #1)Once Upon a Wicked Night (Donovan, #1.5)Secrets of an Accidental Duchess (Donovan, #2)The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae 


And if nothing catches your eye here (but I'm sure a couple have!) don't worry as there are some great releases in just a week on February 7th from Shana Galen, Samantha Grace, Heather Snow, Victoria Alexander and Carolyn Jewel!

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on Wednesday is a a weekly blog hop hosted by Breaking the Spine where we all mention one upcoming book release we are waiting for.


This week my pick is from the ever talented Julia Quinn. A Night Like This is book two in the Smythe-Smith Quartet and while I have not read all of Julia Quinns works, from what I have read I know I can count on a light, humorous, enjoyable read.  And don't we all need those kinds of reads?  Just something easy to read to escape real life :)  And look at the pretty cover that was released this past week!  I love the blue with the pop of pink for the shoe--I am hoping there is a pink shoe involved as with the red shoe from the cover of Just Like Heaven played a role in the book.  This one releases May 29th.  Here is the goodreads.com summary:

 Three years ago, Daniel Smythe-Smith shot a man in a duel and was forced to flee the country. He used to be a devil-may-care charmer, but after three years of being quite literally hunted, he is wary and on edge. Now he's back in London and, on the night of his arrival, attends the annual Smythe-Smith musicale, where he notices that the young woman at the piano is definitely not his cousin. 

Anne Shawcross made a terrible mistake at the age of sixteen. Ruined by the son of the most important family in the district, she changed her last name and left home, eventually becoming the governess to the Earl of Pleinsworth's three daughters. When Sarah Pleinsworth takes ill the night of the musicale, Anne is asked to step in. Could Sarah be the woman to save Daniel and his wounded heart? New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn's enchanting second novel in the Smythe-Smith quartet is guaranteed to make you laugh out loud and tug at your heartstrings in equal measures.

(I think the line  'Could Sarah be the woman to save Daniel and his wounded heart?' should be 'Could Anne be the woman..' but I'm not sure.  I didn't see a summary on Julia Quinns website to confirm, but that would make more sense to me.)

Monday, January 23, 2012

How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back by Sophie Barnes

Emily Rutherford is shaken to the core when her lifelong friend Adrian proposes to her best friend.  After all, Emily and Adrian had an understanding that they would become engaged in due time...well, that was understood by Emily, his parents, her sisters, and practically the entire ton.  Apparently Adrian, and his heart, missed that particular discussion.  Wanting to do nothing more than stay in her small cottage, she is persuaded to go to London and enjoy a Season, along with her two sisters at the bequest of another childhood friend, Francis Riley, Earl of Dunhurst.  After the unexpected death of their parents, Emily and her sisters have been living on the "generosity" of the new viscount.  They have no dowries and this could be their one chance to make a favorable match.  The only real problem is Francis.

Francis grew up with Emily and Adrian and her sisters but a terrible secret was brought to light and it made him into a changed man.  Gone was the relaxed nature of his life and in its place he became a bit cold.  He has kept this secret to himself the entire time and in the process, caused his friendships to slide.  Now after seeing the way Adrian treated Emily, he wants to correct his cousin's mistake and help Emily became the bubbly female she has always been.  In the process, his own demeanor begins to thaw and he remembers why he always loved being around Emily and as those feelings grow, so does the heated flirtations.  Will these two childhood friends be able to overcome there pasts to find a future together?

Overall, I was very happy with this sweet and sexy romance!  I thought it would be a bit more humorous based on the title but it is a little deeper than just enjoyable fluff.  I enjoyed how Francis' secret was made know to us readers quickly as it really helped shaped him and we got to see the wonderful thaw of his heart.  I also enjoyed how Francis refused to bed Emily until they were married and the resulting circumstances were a surprise to me.  **spoilerish (I don't read many books where the couple is married by the middle of the book)**  I enjoyed our couple together and I adored one of the opening scenes at the ball when Francis asks Emily to dance and she refuses as she thinks he too stiff now (because what lady in her right mind refuses to dance with a perfectly eligible earl?)--it reminded be a bit of Pride and Prejudice :)  I originally thought this was a novella but I was pleasantly surprised to learn it is a full length story and I am so happy it was.  It allowed for a wonderful romance to play out, not just between Emily and Francis, but also her sisters got a bit of happiness as well.  (But the sisters stories did not detract from the main couple at all, they were just an added bonus for these very close sisters).  There are a few misunderstandings but they are quickly cleared up and the story just moves along, which I appreciated.  No big long drawn out misunderstandings, phew!  For Sophie Barnes debut, I adored it and am already anxious for her new series.  If you are looking for a sweet childhood friends to lovers romance that flows along quickly with a dash of humor and a bit of 'what the heck are you thinking Emily?!?' thrown in as well, this is a great romance to curl up with.  4 stars

I received this eARC from Avon Impulse

Friday, January 20, 2012

The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens

This was a very satisfying conclusion to the Cynster Sisters Trilogy with the mystery as to why there have now been three kidnappings being quickly spelled out, which I appreciated.  I was also happy with the reason behind the kidnappings and it showed our hero,  Dominic Lachlan Guisachan, eight Earl of Glencrae in a positive light.  Just as he is re-entering society he catches the attention of one Angelica Cynster and being the bold, headstrong female that she is, knows that this tall, mysterious man is her husband to be.  Angelica is pleasantly surprised when her attentions seemed to be returned and convinces Dominic to step out for a bit of air, though it is highly improper.  Dominic can not believe that the last Cynster sister is falling into his lap and proceeds to whisk Angelica away from the ball.  

Angelica was a delight to read.  She is strong, fiesty and at the same time, caring and loving.  She agrees to Dominics crazy plan but not without her own little twist.  As she knows deep inside her heart that this is the man for her, she has no qualms about stepping up and helping him rescue his clan.  She steps into the role of presumed countess-to-be with a great deal of grace and charm.  And Dominic can feel the love growing between them but still refuses to bend to passion until matters are taken out of his hands.  Phew!  Can these two burn up the sheets!  But with her family searching for her and Dominic running out of time to save his clan, can these two overcome all the obstacles being thrown there way?

It took me a bit to really get into this story but once I did, I was flipping through the pages and finished it up in one night.  I thought our couple were perfect for each other and balanced each other nicely.  The mystery that has been surrounding the laird from the previous two books is revealed quickly but I thought the ending was a bit abrupt.  Like all the loose threads were tied up too neatly and quickly.  But even with these hesitations on my part, this was a delightful book that will give past Cynster fans more glimpses of this large, bold family but will also showcase a romance destined to be.  4 stars

I received this eARC from Avon via netgalley.com

Cynster Sisters Triology 
  Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue (Cynster #16)In Pursuit of Miss Eliza Cynster: A Cynster Novel

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Wicked as They Come by Delilah S. Dawson

I was pleasantly surprised to receive this book one day in the mail and while it sounds very fascinating, it just was not something I was really in the mood to read right now.  So I checked my friends list at goodreads and was so happy to see one of my great friends had it on her wish list so I shipped it off to her for her reading enjoyment.  Please head over to her blog to check out her glowing review!

The Queen's Library


And thanks so much to Pocket for providing the ARC!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Pardon my dust...

Please excuse any weirdness you may find around here over the coming days.  I'm playing around with changing my blog layout and design and will be tweaking it while I have the time! Let me know what you think if you want :)

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on Wednesday is a a weekly blog hop hosted by Breaking the Spine where we all mention one upcoming book release we are waiting for.
This week my pick is the third in Charlotte Featherstone's The Breathren Guardians series and there has been plenty of build up in the first two books!  I am so anxious to read this one and delve into this couples past and see their happiness finally arrive.  Look for Temptation & Twilight June 19th!  Here is the goodreads.com summary:

Iain Sinclair, Marquis of Alynwick, is certain there is a special hell for him. An unrepentant rake, he holds nothing sacred – except for beautiful Elizabeth York. For years, Alynwick has tried to forget the woman he loved so well, and treated so badly. A woman who could hold nothing in her heart for him except hatred.

All of society believes Elizabeth, blind daughter of a duke, to be a proper young lady. But no one knows of her wanton affair with Alynwick. When Lizzy learns of her ancestor’s ancient diary – filled with exotic tales – she longs to uncover the identity of the unnamed lover within and hesitantly allows Alynwick, who claims to have knowledge of the “veiled lady,” to help her solve the mystery.

Eager to be Lizzy’s eyes, Alynwick brings the seductive text to life, and each night it takes greater effort for her to forget his betrayal. With each whispered word, her resolve gives way, without her knowing that a centuries-old secret will lead them to a present-day danger.


I really enjoy books with a scarred hero or heroine and I already know that Elizabeth is strong and independent despite her blindness so I am looking forward to her making Alynwick fall to his knees :)  

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

An Affair with Mr. Kennedy by Jillian Stone

Wow, this book is so unique and fascinating!  First, our hero is not a duke, earl, etc...he is the son of one but he is not going to inherit and it is always nice to read a change of pace from that scenario.  Same for our heroine, Cassie St. Cloud.  She gained the Lady title by marriage but her husband is deceased and she prefers to be called Cassie.  She is the daughter of two prominent doctors in society and her mother is a strong advocate for women's suffrage which brings up another key factor in this story to set it apart--it is set in 1887 which allows for such things as the London Underground (laying electric work), women riding bicycles and bloomers.  Jillian Stone brings all this to life with a fresh breath of air that I enjoyed.

Cassie was such a bold female--she smokes cigars, rides bikes, and rents a flat next to a handsome man...that just happens to have a connecting door between the premisses.  Locked of course...but for how long?  She is a painter and she is accepted for all her uniqueness by not just her parents and friends, but also by Zak.  Zeno Augustus Kennedy, nickname Zak, works for Scotland Yard (does anyone else love saying that in their faux British accent?  I do, lol) and helped defuse a large bomb plot that has arisen again and Cassies former brother-in-law seems to be a part of the murderous group so Zak is determined to find out what Cassie knows.  However, the pair find themselves in a hot flirtation that soon leads to a hot affair and matters of the heart become involved all while trying to uncover the dangerous group know as the Bloody Four.

Overall, this is a fascinating piece of work!  I really hope we see more and more books set during this time period as it adds so much richness to the story.  I adored Cassie and Zak together and I appreciated that even though Cassie is strong and independent, she is also a female who wants the love of a good man to be known to her and will not accept anything else.  Nothing to major to complain about with the book other than it is long.  It is almost 400 pages so you will need to carve out some time to sink into this one and enjoy it.  The mystery aspect will keep you flipping the pages and I know my heart was racing in the final chapters!  Jillian Stone has delivered a strong story set within a unique setting with characters that are smart, sexy and perfect for each other mixed together with an intriguing mystery and wonderful supporting characters that will leave you anxiously awaiting the next story!  4 stars

Thanks to Pocket and Jillian Stone for providing me with this ARC!

The Gentlemen of Scotland Yard
An Intrigue with Detective Lewis August 28th
A Private Duel with Agent Gunn Early 2013

Monday, January 16, 2012

New Covers

Here are some new covers that were mentioned online recently.

Rules of Engagement: The Reasons for Marriage\The Wedding Party\Unlaced features, I think, two new stories and one reprint (the Laurens one).  I'm not positive about that but Delilah Marvelle  does have some info on her website and it releases April 17th.  Looking forward to her story :)  And I love the teal of this cover!

The Scarlet Bride is book three in Cheryl Ann Smith's School  for Brides series and I think this is a very unique cover.  Obliviously, the red dress seems appropriate based on the title but I really like the background shot of a city.  Something different :)  This one comes out in June.

Elizabeth Boyle is on my to read soon list and I think I will be starting with Along Came A Duke!  Such a pretty cover (done by the ever talented Jon Paul Studios as I remember him posting this cover art to facebook).  And the synopsis sounds good as well!  Look for it June as well.


And finally, Karen Ramsey revealed her upcoming cover and stepback through her email/blog subscription.  Very nice and Scottish and the stepback is super sexy.  Look for A Scandalous Scot  June 26th.

Any of these covers grab your attention?  Any new cover goodies out there that I have not seen yet?

Friday, January 13, 2012

She Tempts the Duke by Lorraine Heath

Well, this book grabbed my attention from the very first page and never let go!

Sebastian Easton, Duke of Keswick, has had a very hard life.  Nearly killed alongwith his two brothers as a young lad, he escapes unharmed to only have to split up from his brothers to protect them.  Sebastian takes off to the war and in the process, he becomes quite scarred inside and out but the one thing that keeps him going is that he must seek revenge against his vile uncle.  Life finally allows the three brothers to gather together in London and they find a quite dramatic way to announce their arrival back in society and Sebastian's proper place as the duke.  And no one is more shocked by their arrival than Lady Mary Wynne-Jones....the young girl who freed the brothers and has been waiting twelve long years for any word of them.

Mary is overjoyed to see her best friend from childhood is back but is a bit shaken by her grown up attraction to Sebastian.  After all, she is engaged to another, perfectly acceptable man.  But that quiet, proper man is not quite the right fit for Mary who is strong, bold and cares deeply for those she cares about.  And it is that deep, abiding caring that keeps her coming back to Sebastian and helping him try to find his new place in society.  This causes a few burned bridges for Mary but allows this destined-to-be couple to find happiness together.

I adored this book!  It is a wonderful, heart pleasing romance of childhood friends to lovers but mixed with enough danger that you will breeze through it and end with a happy smile on your face.  I was not expecting the slight 'Beauty and the Beast' theme but it played out very well.  Mary never saw Sebastians scars as anything to pity and her way of expressing this to Sebastian was a key turning point in their relationship.  I also was very happy with the fact there is no cheating on Mary's fiance, besides one kiss.  I'm always nervous about cheating while engaged to another but that is not the case here.  In fact, it takes almost three quarters of the book for the major heat factor to kick in and I'm not really complaining.  The storyline just moved along so well that when it finally happened, it was right.  There is a strong sense of family between the brothers despite being apart for so long but with that comes many doubts on Sebastian's end but Mary is the perfect balm to help him heal.  I am so eager for the next two books as there is so much history of the brothers to discover!  Overall, this is a perfect romance that blends true love and danger in a way that will keep you up late finishing the book!  4 very solid stars

I received this eARC from Avon via netgalley.com

The Lost Lords of Pembrook
  Lord of Temptation Oct 2012
Book 3 2013

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Not Wicked Enough by Carolyn Jewel

What an absolutely charming romance this book is!  Here are some of the high points for me:

~~Lily Wellstone is the type of friend we all love to have--kind, generous and loving.  She arrives at her friend Eugenia's home to help her overcome the loss of her husband and is able to draw Eugenia out of her sadness and start to smile and live again.  While doing this, Lily attracts the attention of Ginnys brother, Mountjoy, but as Lily believes she lost her one true love in the war, she thinks she will never love again but is tempted enough to start a hot (!!) affair.

~~The Duke of Mountjoy never expected to be a duke, he was just a farmer raised with his brother and sister by his aunt and uncle until a long lost lineage line gave him the dukedom.  He has grown as comfortable with his new life as he can and it shows in his dedication to making the land and tenants happy and prosperous but it has short sighted him a bit to his sister's grief and more of what society expects out of a duke.  The arrival of Lily opens his eyes--and heart--to his surroundings and helps him get a closer bond with his sister.  Mountjoy is practically engaged to a neighboring woman and knows it is his duty to marry Miss Jane but he just can't get the alluring Lily out of his mind.  He believes a quick affair before he proposes will cure his lust.

~~The attention to detail of the fashion in this book was wonderful!  Lily is a fashion plate and takes great care and pleasure in making sure she is exquisitely dressed for each occasion and I loved how Ms Jewel wrote out all the delicious details.  I adored how Lily was just flabbergasted that Mountjoy had no qualms about looking anything less than perfect.  Mountjoy dresses for comfort, not fashion and it shakes all of Lily's sensibilities and it was a delight to see Mountjoy slowly come around on his thinking of tailoring and clothing choices.  Perhaps being fashionably presentable as a duke isn't such a bad thing after all?

This was my first Carolyn Jewel book and what drew me to want to read this book was the stunning cover and having read the book now, I appreciate the detail of the cover so much more but I also loved the story.  The beginning started out a bit slow but once it got going for me, it was wonderful!  The dialogue between Lily and Mountjoy was stiff and proper when around family but when they were alone...phew, smokin!  I adored, absolutely adored, how Mountjoy grows to call Lily Wellstone.  That is just so sweet and personal to me.  Oh, and the ending.  Sigh.  You can feel the love between Lily and Mountjoy and the last chapter left me with a huge smile and happy sigh so big that I immediately read it again.  Romantic to a T.  Overall, a entrancing romance that will leave you happily satisfied and looking forward to the next story in the series!  I know I can't wait for it!    4 stars

I won an arc of this book from Carolyn Jewel, thanks!!

Seducing the Scoundrels
Not Proper Enough Sept 2012

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Miss Hillary Schools a Scoundrel by Samantha Grace

Miss Lana Hillary has gotten herself into a bit of a situation.  She has found herself attracted to the type of man she has sworn off after a broken engagement, a scoundrel.  And unfortunately her first meeting with this scoundrel is quite indecent to say the least.  As Lana is trying to escape the lecherous advances of a man she disgusts, she climbs out of a window and hangs there until the rakish Lord Andrew Forest happens by and is able to help.  But as Andrew is a rake of the highest order, he thinks a kiss is a proper thank you.  Hee hee.  You can see the mutual attraction right off the bat with this couple but as Lana only will marry for love, there is no room for scoundrels but that doesn't stop Andrew from pursing her.  And when Lana's brother, Jake, throws down the ultimate challenge--stay away from my sister--the pursing begins in earnest.  After all, Andrew doesn't need to bed her completely, just some more steamy kisses will do.  However, the attraction is too strong and passionate for that to stay true and Lana ends up being the one that throws up the walls afterwards and leads Andrew on a bit of a chase.

This is Samantha Grace's debut novel and she does an excellent job of taking many common Regency themes--dashing scoundrels who will never marry but fall hard, heroines that refuse to marry for anything less than love, meddling mamas that must see their almost-on-the-shelf-daughter married now, protective older brothers--and mixing it all together in a way that was still fresh and fun to read.  I love stories that have large extended families that are close and get along well and this one delivers on that front as well through Andrews family.  Andrew has a wonderful relationship with his parents and siblings as does Lana.  Lana has a close bond with her brother Jake but there is tension between their parents and their mama can be a bit tiring at times.    

As for Lana herself, she was very delightful.  I thought she was going to be shy and proper but that turned out not to be the case.  Lana is witty, clever and a bit carefree but has a wall around her heart that Andrew tries so hard to break down with his love and affection but with his past rakish ways, it is a bit hard to Lana to truly trust him completely.  It was great to watch Andrew slowly transform from scoundrel to gentleman, while still maintaining his warm sense of humor and charm.  I also appreciated there was no back and forth on telling each other they loved one another.  When they realized it, it was said shortly after that.  Really one of the only negatives for this book was Andrew's pet name for Lana.  It is just a pet peeve of mine as I do not personally like nicknames being used all the time in place of the persons real name but the nickname 'peach' did suit Lana and when she confronts him about it (as she thinks it is a negative to do with her despised hair color)...sigh, so sweet.

Overall, a very solid debut for me.  This book had be laughing quite a bit at the sharp wit and also had quite a few surprised laughter at the end.  There is a dash of intrigue thrown in for the last part of the book that had me flipping the pages to see how it would end and I was definitely surprised.  Quite a bit of surprised laughter for me there!  There is also a small introduction into the next book in this series featuring Jake and the mysterious widow, Lady Amelia and I am quite anxious for that book!  If you are looking for a warm Regency filled with wit and laughter and a bit of mystery and some wonderful, hot loving, this is a great debut to try!  4 stars

I received this eARC from Sourcebooks via netgalley.com

A couple of LOL quotes for me

Frustrated with her inability to cease thinking on Lord Andrew, she huffed and shifted her position on the carriage seat again.
Jake crossed his arms and scowled, "For goodness' sake, Lana.  What's with all the huffing?  Are you laying an egg over there?"

Drew's mother patted her hand.  "I believe they miscalculated.  Phoebe appears to have swallowed a small pig, not that my grandchild will be anything less than perfect."

*Quotes subject to change in final book*

Books in series (I'm not sure if it has a name but it looks like they will feature the same characters)
Lady Amelia's Mess and a Half
        June 1st

 Miss Lavigne’s Little White Lie -- Coming Fall 2012

Thursday, January 5, 2012

New Covers

Here are some new covers that I have noticed around cyberspace this week~

First up is the first cover for Elise Rome's debut series! I love this cover...the blue and the mask make it pop and look mysterious at the same time. No definite release date at this time but hopefully by the end of January she has said. Yay!


Sigh.... I love this cover. The green. The handsome guy. Very pretty and a clever way to make the long title fit nicely. Look for book book five in the Lords of Vice series, All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess on July 31st.


I love purple so this is another winner of a cover for me! I have read a couple of Sherry Thomas' books and they were just ok for me but I am excited for her new trilogy coming up and hope to see if my tastes have improved :) Look for Ravishing the Heiress around July 3rd.


Almost a Scandal is the start of a series called Reckless Brides from Elizabeth Essex. I can't find much information about the book or the series but I am intrigued just based on the cover alone. This one also releases July 31st.


Now I know I just said I love purple and I do love the purple of this cover but the rest is just sort of ho-hum for me. I feel like the female is a bit too made up for my tastes and I'm not particularly found of the bodice of the dress. Picky picky I know! (Oh, but I do like that the male is wearing black instead of the usual white) That being said, I can't wait to read Much Ado About Rogues as it is the Blackthorn Brothers' story! I am so intrigued to see what Black Jack has been up too :) Look for this March 20th.


Last up is the cover and stepback for book three in the Donovan series from Jennifer Haymore. I'm pretty excited for this one as well as Meg is believed dead in the first book so that should make things interesting :) This one is out August 1st.

So, what about you? Any of these covers catch your eye and you can't wait to dive into?

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on Wednesday is a a weekly blog hop hosted by Breaking the Spine where we all mention one upcoming book release we are waiting for.

This week my pick is How to Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling (out April 1st).  I really enjoyed the previous two books as they were fun and a delight to read.  Here is the goodreads.com summary:


SCANDALOUS DESIRES . . .

Amy Hardwick has one last Season to shake off her wallflower image and make a love match. If she can't, she'll set aside her dreams of romance and return home to a suitor who can provide security-if little else. What she doesn't count on is the inappropriate-and irresistible-attention lavished on her in a darkened library by rake extraordinaire Will "The Devil" Darcett . . .

DEVILISH DELIGHT

When Will is caught in a tryst with the ton's shyest miss, he knows he must offer for her hand. Yet Amy is not the shrinking violet she seems to be. Passion lies beneath her prim exterior and Will is eager to release it. But winning Amy isn't simply a matter of seduction; first, Will must convince her that he's mended his wicked ways . . .


I enjoy a good forced engagement/marriage storyline and there has been a bit of a build up for Will and Amy's story in the previous books so that makes me a bit more anxious for it.  (But I'm sure you could read it as a standalone).  I also love the cover...the yellow background is very eye catching and the pretty blue of her dress....and oh yes, the abs of steel :)


What about you?  Have you read Vicky Dreiling before?  Or do you enjoy the forced engagement/marriage storyline?

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Happy Release Day!!

Here are some of the great sounding books that are releasing today!

Mad about the Earl (Ministry of Marriage, #2)
First up is one of my most ancipated reads for this year, Mad about the Earl.  Can't wait until I can read this one!


Twice Fallen (Ladies in Waiting, #2)


Another one I am looking forward to is Twice Fallen. I have enjoyed Emma Wildes previous books that I have read and I enjoyed the previous book in this series...and the title sounds like a perfect fit again. 


Sunrise with a Notorious Lord (Lords of Vice, #4)
This is another one I have been waiting for.  Sunrise with a Notorious Lord is book four in Alexandra Hawkins hot Lord of Vice series.  And I love the cover as well :)


Bride by Mistake

And one last book on my radar on a new to me author is Anne Gracie's Bride by Mistake. I have yet to read anything by her but the premise of this one sounds good so I hope to give her a try soon.


So, any of these catch your attention?  It seems pretty quiet for the rest of the month until the 31st when another great sounding batch will be released!

Monday, January 2, 2012

The Rogue Pirate's Bride by Shana Galen

Revenge is the name of the game for Raeven Russell.  The daughter of a British admiral, almost her whole life has been at sea and she loves it but when the pirate Captain Cutless kills her fiance, she is out avenge his death.  Raeven has heard tales of this 'privateer,' as he refers to himself, and feels like it is her job to teach the scoundrel a lesson.  So she stuffs her long black hair into a cap, drags her friend with her to a bar where Cutless will be and challenges him to a duel, which she is confident she will win as she is very hand with a sword.  The tables are quickly turned though as Cutless brushes her off as a mere boy, which just infuriates Raeven even more but the final straw is when her removes her cap.  Oh yes, then the sparks start to fly!

Sebastian Harcourt, marquis de Valere, aka Captain Cutless, is a bit surprised with the hatred rolling off of Raeven towards him.  But he can understand seeking out revenge all to well as he is also on a quest to avenge his mentors death.  The added addition of the feisty Raeven is just a surprising bonus...until he finds out who her father is.  He watches Raeven disappear thinking he will never see her again.  Naturally, fate has other ideas and watching all the zings between this couple was a delight!

Sigh, what an excellent pirate, high-seas adventure this book is!  There are battles between ships that will have you flipping the pages and casualties that will make you cry.  There is a sense that you are there on the ship as well, you can almost feel the ship rocking but not enough that it overpowers the romance end of the story.  And what a hot romance it is!  There is a mutual attraction right away but as Raeven believes Bastian is a murderer, her feelings are all jumbled up.  Bastian's feelings are not as clear cut either.  He believes his entire family is dead and he is alone, save for an old servant.  But as his attraction for Raeven grows, so does love and respect...especially after she proves her abilities with a cannon :)

Overall, another winner from Shana Galen!  This is book three in this series and can truly be read as a standalone.  I would have liked to have seen a bit more of Bastian's family at the end but it is a wonderful conclusion to a truly fabulous series.  This book is sure to have something for everyone--romance, danger, revenge, betrayal, deceit, and an attraction so sexy and smart it will make you laugh and sigh over and over.  I truly believe Ms Galen has a very bright future ahead of her and I can not wait to see what else she delivers!  5 stars

Favorite LOL quote

"There's nothing complicated about our relationship.  I hate you and want you dead."


eARC provided by Sourcebooks via netgalley.com and quote subject to change in final book

The Sons of the Revolution series
The Making of a Duchess (The Sons of the Revolution, #1)The Making of a Gentleman (The Sons of the Revolution #2)

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!!  2012 already?  That seems a bit crazy!  I would like to wish all of you a very happy, healthy and blessed new years and find lots of happiness and love in your book journeys!


Now, resolution time.  I did pretty good on my goals for last year.  I have not updated my A to Z challenge in quite some time so I will have to get back to you on that.  As for reading 96 books in the year...that one I manged to surpass as I was able to read 188 books in 2011!!  Wow.  I'm not going to shoot for to much more than that for 2012 so I will start my goal at 150 and for from there.  And book buying.  Yeah, I did ok for most of the year.  Then I started getting antsy in the last couple of months so I picked up too many books that I didn't really need right now...oh well, lol!  But for 2012 I will have the same type of goal.  I am only going to use my Amazon gift cards to buy books.  If I don't have a balance available, the book will need to wait.  I love being able to get books through netgalley.com and all the awesome new author friends I have made this past year and I hope that generosity continues into 2012.

Another goal I have is to read all the wonderful self published books I have been accumulating.  They all seem to have great reviews and I am really looking forward to finally reading most of them!  Some authors on my radar include Rose Gordon, Ava Stone, Jane Charles, Kate Harper, Catherine Gayle, Jerrica Knight-Catania, and Natasha Blackthorne.  Yes I already have books by all these authors and I really, truly hope to read them all!

One more goal for myself is to read some of the older historical books I keep putting off because there are just do many darn good books coming out!  First and foremost is to read What I Did for a Duke by Julie Anne Long.  I also hope to get back to the Bridgerton series from the fabulous Julia Quinn.  I also have some backlist books from Meredith Duran, Lavinia Kent, Anna Campbell, Jennifer Ashley and Katherine Ashe I hope to read.  The main word there is *hope*

Well, they seem like some lofty goals but they are truly want I want to accomplish in my book reading.  Personally...well...love my family as much as possible :)  What about you?  What sort of goals are you hoping to accomplish in your book reading or personally?