The Devil of Kilmartin by Laurin Wittig

The Devil of Kilmartin by Laurin Wittig

Publisher: Laurin Wittig (September 2010)

272 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Elena, daughter of the former Lamont chief, possesses a mystical power to heal and lessen pain, but her gift has been kept a secret from her people, used by those in power for their own gain. When she is faced with an unwanted suitor, she flees only to have Symon, The Devil of Kilmartin, a man famed for his madness, save her and she isn't sure if her situation has improved or gotten worse. But, the more she sees of the man, the less she believes of the stories about Symon. I loved the exploration of the intricacies of Elena's gift and Symon's seemingly complimentary gifts. This is a great story of troubled souls soothing each other, with a bit of mystery woven through it. My only complaint is that Elena was stubbornly determined throughout to live without hope of happiness and it started to get annoying, especially near the end. Luckily, Symon had enough hope for everyone and I loved his character from the beginning. Great read!

Conquering the Dark Axe by Amber Dane

Conquering the Dark Axe by Amber Dane

The Northern Knights Series, Book 2

Publisher: Amber Dane (August 2012)

296pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Rourke, a notorious Norman warrior known as The Dark Axe, is a harsh, troubled man increasingly weary of war and trying desperately to overcome a broken heart. As one of William the Conqueror's favored knights, he is ordered to marry a Saxon bride and when the one contracted for him dies, he is ordered to marry her sister, Alexa, in her stead. If you are looking for a warm, tender hero, this is not the book for you. Rourke was abusive, hard and uncompromising and continued to be so throughout much of the story, only made worse by Alexa's headstrong, wild spirit. Their romance is rocky and full of conflict on both sides, and it was hard to read at many points throughout the story. I felt Rourke's character and actions were almost too realistic and time period appropriate, but I liked watching his slow evolution to the man he became in the end and I felt Alexa grew at least as much as Rourke did. Perhaps not a pretty story, but beautifully crafted, and with characters you can't tear yourself away from. I look forward to reading the third and final book in this series, The Beast of Renald, about Darc, which will hopefully be released soon!

Gem of Gravane by Amber Dane

Gem of Gravane by Amber Dane

The Northern Knights Series, Book 1

Publisher: Amber Dane (June 2012)

227 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Having long been subjected to her cousins' treachery and abuse, Danielle clings to the hope that one day a knight in shining armor will come and save her from her hardships. When William the Conqueror demands she marry one of his favored knights, she hopes her new husband will be the answer to her prayers, despite Aric's hard, warrior facade. Aric was hard to like in the beginning, but part of that was Danielle being so soft-hearted and easily hurt after being cut down by her cousins for so long. Once Danielle toughened up a bit and Aric softened, I found them both very engaging and enjoyed reading their internal struggles. The way this story was told from multiple points of view, I thought was great and it really gives you a chance to see things from all angles. The secondary romance between Aric's second-in-command, Balwain, and Danielle's maid, Edie, was a nice touch. There were a few editorial errors and some questionable phrasing/syntax, but I enjoyed the unique Saxon/Norman speech, different from Scottish Highland romances that I've read. I look forward to reading Rourke's story in the next book in this series, Conquering the Dark Axe!

Southern Seduction by Reece Butler

Southern Seduction by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 8

Publisher: Siren Publishing (December 2012)

207 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $6.39)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Finally, the Sweetwater Ranch's turn! Casey, dressed as a boy, and her younger brother, Willy, came to Tanner's Ford looking to escape their father's plans for Casey. Casey and Willy get hired on different ranches for the winter, Casey as a cook and Willy as a ranch hand, but Casey isn't able to hide her femininity from her employers for long, before the cat is out of the bag and Cole decides the only decent thing to do is marry her and annul the marriage in the spring, but the annulment part isn't to the liking of his cousins/partners Byron and Marshall or Casey. The story line here is much like the previous books in this series, but I really appreciated that Cole (the sole hold out in this group) didn't fight against things for too long and much of the story centered around them getting to know each other, instead of people fighting the inevitable. There was a bit more BDSM in this one, than in others in the series. I loved all the characters! Excellent read, plus, there were a few insinuations of happy endings for a few other minor female characters featured in the series!

Death Blow by Jianne Carlo

Death Blow by Jianne Carlo

Viking Vengeance Series, Book 2

Publisher: Etopia Press (December 2012)

135 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Nyssa is cursed by a sea-god making it difficult for any man to make her his own, but Konall seems to be the one man up to the challenge and he is willing to help her reclaim her castle and lands, as well, but she fears once he knows the full extent of her curse he will cast her aside. This is a wonderful story that brings you even further into Norse mythology than the first story in this series and with a slight BDSM edge to it. The characters, as always, were very engaging. I hope we see more of Nyssa's brother, Mus/Ciarran, in the third book, or at least learn what happens to him. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, Vengeance Hammer, about Konall's brother, Draddor! Awesome series!

The Highlander's Lady by Eliza Knight

The Highlander's Lady by Eliza Knight

The Stolen Bride Series, Book 3

Publisher: Eliza Knight (December 2012)

292 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Due to an overprotective father and a tragedy involving her mother, Myra has been forced to watch from the shadows for most of her life, with the exception of one night spent dancing with Daniel, only to have it end in misunderstanding and heartache. When Daniel finds her alone and in need of help in the woods shortly after an attack on her family's castle, he offers her protection and help in fulfilling her brother's last request of her, and he hopes to rectify the misunderstanding that pulled them apart in the first place. Daniel and Myra had great chemistry from the beginning and their history together, just made it all the more intriguing. I found both characters very engaging and the story kept me riveted until the end. I look forward to reading Ronan and Julianna's story in the next book in this series, The Highlander's Warrior Bride, expected out March 2013. Great Series!

Shiver by Karen Robards

Shiver by Karen Robards

Publisher: Gallery Books (December 2012)

400 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $11.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Sam is a young single mother that repos cars for a living as she tries to scrape by and provide a decent life for her 4-year-old son, Tyler. Her daily existence is set awry when she thinks to repo a car with a man in the trunk, gets thrown in with him and is drawn into the dangerous world of undercover FBI agent, Danny, who is posing as Marco. I didn't care for Sam much. I found her abrasive, impetuous and not all that smart, many times acting at the wrong time and too single-mindedly. Other than being the most beautiful girl on the planet that every man who walked past lusted after, I wasn't sure what Danny liked about her. I also found the writing style to be a bit too crass/valley girlish for my taste. I liked Danny, but it's pretty hard not to like a man that seemingly has no faults. The action was fast-paced and definitely kept me interested right through to the end, with lots of suspense and a bit of mystery as to who exactly is hunting Danny/Marco. The plot was reminiscent of the books in Julie Garwood's Buchanan-Renard Series. Would be a decent read at a lower price, maybe.

Warriors in Winter by Michelle Willingham

Warriors in Winter by Michelle Willingham

MacEgan Brothers Series, Second Generation Novella Collection

Publisher: Harlequin Historical (December 2012)

284 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.21)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This is a collection of three interconnected novellas about second generation MacEgan characters. 

The first tale, In the Bleak Midwinter, is about Brianna, widowed a year before and still dealing with her grief, loneliness and desire for revenge on the Viking responsible until Arturo comes along, providing a distraction and understanding gained from the loss of his own wife. I thought this was a sweet tale of two grieving hearts helping each other to heal and build something new and beautiful. 

In the second tale, The Holly and the Viking, Rhiannon becomes lost in a blizzard and is saved by Kaall, the Viking who killed her cousin Brianna's husband only to find that not all is as clear cut as it would seem and the Viking is blind. While tending the wound he got saving her from a wolf, she comes to know him as more than just her cousin's enemy. This was my favorite story of the collection. Kaall was an angry, bitter man eager to push everyone away, but Rhiannon wouldn't let him and I loved that about her. And once Rhiannon made her intentions clear, Kaall's determination was a match for her own and I found his strength and resolve inspiring.

In the last tale, A Season to Forgive, Liam is becoming increasingly concerned about his betrothed Adriana and her distance, especially given their impending nuptials. Adriana is struggling with guilt over the price she paid for Liam's life while they were away on Crusade and she fears he will cast her aside when he finds out. I was a bit disappointed in Liam's response in this one, but I suppose it is understandable and thankfully, he worked through it. I felt bad for Adriana, but did think things might have gone better if she had come clean in the beginning. A great collection nonetheless, and a pleasure to read!

Highland Legacy by B. J. Scott

Highland Legacy by B. J. Scott

The Fraser Brothers Trilogy, Book 1

Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing (November 2011)

234 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After Cailin's impetuous attempt to escape a marriage arranged for her by her father, Connor comes upon her in time to save her from being raped by English soldiers, only to return her home in much more dire need of escape, when she finds the place place crawling with English soldiers looking to arrest her for murder. Cailin escapes and catches up to Connor, who marries her to keep her safe, but regrets the decision later, his need to be with her warring with his duty to the patriot cause. I found the characters in this story to be engaging and complex, and all of them full of inspiring strength. Cailin, though a bit of a worrier, kept forging ahead despite all she had been through. Connor, in his complexity, vacillated between duty and the call of his heart endlessly and there were times I wasn't sure I liked him much, but once he saw the light, I could find no fault with him. His two brothers, Alasdair and Bryce, provided endless entertainment along the way and I loved them. I look forward to reading Bryce and Fallon's story in the next book in this series, Highland Quest!

The Highlander's Conquest by Eliza Knight

The Highlander's Conquest by Eliza Knight

The Stolen Bride Series, Book 2

Publisher: Eliza Knight (September 2012)

290 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Sent by his sister-in-law, Arbella, to bring her sister to her, Blane interrupted Aliah's secret imminent plans to join the church. Both burdened by a misguided sense of guilt from a childhood tragedy, their lengthy journey to the Highlands not only brings Blane and Aliah together, but fortuitously lightens their burdens along the way. I loved Aliah's strength and courage. She was an easy character to relate to, and I loved the inclusion of the family's wolfhound, Frosty. This book included more humor than the first in this series, and there were a couple parts that I nearly laughed until I cried. Blane, I liked, but he stubbornly drug his feet until the very end and I was beginning to get a bit frustrated with him. I look forward to the next book, The Highlander's Lady, which is soon to be released and I believe is about Magnus's and Blane's cousin, Daniel Moray/Murray. I hope this series will continue with the younger siblings stories, Ronan and Heather, as I have become fond of them. Great Series!

The Highlander's Reward by Eliza Knight

The Highlander's Reward by Eliza Knight

The Stolen Bride Series, Book 1

Publisher: Eliza Knight (July 2012)

263 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

On her way to marry a man she and her father have never met, at the request of the King, Arbella finds herself in the middle of a battle and in danger of becoming mere spoils of war until Laird Magnus Sutherland swoops in to save her from his own countrymen, leaving him with the problem of what to do with her. It soon becomes clear that he must marry her and take her back to his holding, letting the chips fall where they may. I loved Arbella and felt that she had a lot of depth as a character, always keeping Magnus on his toes, while Magnus is a man you can't help but adore once his rough exterior begins to crack. Spurned betrothals on both sides and the worries over a father who may or may not have survived, combined to keep me riveted to the end. Great read, and I look forward to reading about Magnus's brother, Blane, and Arbella's sister, Aliah, in the second book in this series, The Highlander's Conquest!

Malice Striker by Jianne Carlo

Malice Striker by Jianne Carlo

Viking Vengeance Series, Book 1

Publisher: Etopia Press (October 2012)

180 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Following his first wife’s deception and the resulting capture of his little sister, Brokk (Malice Striker) steals King Kenneth’s bastard daughter, Skatha, intending to ransom her and is surprised to find himself commanded to wed her by his own liege lord. As Brokk comes to know his new wife, he finds the plot surrounding his misfortunes is even deeper than he could have imagined. This is a wonderful story with great characters and some history and mythology deftly woven in without being overpowering. Skatha had a quiet strength, which I loved, and Brokk was wonderful with her. I look forward to reading about Brokk’s brothers: Konall (Death Blow) and Draddor (Vengeance Hammer)!

Reconstructing Jackson by Holly Bush

Reconstructing Jackson by Holly Bush

Publisher: BookBaby (September 2012)

191 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Reed Jackson is a lawyer from the south who suffered injuries in the Civil War that left him in a wheelchair. He set out west at his mother's insistence to start over and stop stewing in bitterness, accepting a bit of help and a room in his cousin's hotel while he starts out on his own. Belle is a dirt poor farmer's daughter, who has simple dreams, that her harsh life leaves little hope of fulfilling, until she is thrown together with Reed. Surrounded by women of strength and conviction, Reed is drug into countless situations he'd rather not find himself in and nudged until he finally shoves his bitterness aside finding strength and conviction of his own. He was a wonderfully complicated character and it was great to watch him crawl out from the depths and back into life, though he never would have been able to do it without a strong, determined woman like Belle at his side. This was such a wonderful story and I look forward to more from this author!

The Trouble with Highlanders by Mary Wine

The Trouble with Highlanders by Mary Wine

The Sutherlands Series, Book 2

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 2012)

320 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After relieving Daphne MacLeod of her virginity in order to help her escape a loveless marriage, Norris can't get her out of his head and bundles her home with him, curious to explore the hold she has on him, but obstacles are aplenty and appear at every turn. Though I didn't dislike the two main characters, I admit I didn't feel particularly drawn to either of them, both having distasteful qualities which perhaps only served to make them more life-like. Daphne a bit too eager to toss away her virginity and Norris a bit too willing to take it. But, even so, I enjoyed this story. It included lots of intrigue and maneuvering by the evil Frasers and the Sutherland clan itself and I thought it was wonderful to watch. And despite any qualms about the main characters, they were surrounded by secondary characters that I absolutely loved. I hope this series continues, and there seemed to be a hint at the end of this one of a story to come between Norris's half-brother, Gahan, and Bari Fraser's half-sister, Moira. I also hope to see more of Faolan Chisholms, Kael Grant and his sister, Nareen, and Daphne's half-brother, Saer. Though we didn't see much of him, I thought Saer was a very striking character and one I would like to know more of, so I hope he gets a story of his own. Wonderful series!

The Highlander's Prize by Mary Wine

The Highlander's Prize by Mary Wine

The Sutherlands Series, Book 1

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (April 2012)

350 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Contracted by her family to be the King of Scotland's mistress, Clarrisa of York, is hoping for a way out of the match when Laird Broen MacNicols shows up to deliver her from her circumstances, though she is unsure if her fate with him will fare any better, since his reasons for taking her are to ensure his own political gain. I found the characters to be likable and the story to be fast paced and engaging. My only problem with it was I felt Clarrisa a bit too willing to participate in Broen's infidelity to his betrothed, even before the matter was cleared up between all parties. I'm not a fan of infidelity, and I wish she had steered clear until she understood the lay of things, but given the feelings and wishes that were later revealed, it turned out okay in the end. I look forward to reading Daphne and Norris's story in the next book in this series, The Trouble with Highlanders. I hope this series continues, perhaps with the stories of Faolan Chisholms or Kael and Nareen Grant.

Highland Heat by Mary Wine

Highland Heat by Mary Wine

The Highlander Series, Book 3

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (March 2011)

353 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Ruined by her naive choice of her first lover, Deirdre is undertaking an unhappy life of penance at a convent, for lacking of a better choice, until the Queen of Scotland requests her assistance in acting as a diversion for her. Deirdre's part in the Queen's deception sends her straight into the arms of Laird Cameron and he decides to keep her. I identified with Deirdre from the beginning and found her very engaging.  She had been wronged in the past by placing her trust in the wrong person and it seemed she continued to be surrounded by people with questionable motives. I didn't trust the Queen and I didn't trust Laird Cameron for much of the story either, especially since I had questions about his actions in the previous two books in this series. Through everything, including the repeated captures and escapes from various castles, Deirdre never gave up and she always held her head high and I loved that about her. And once you get past all the protective layers, I liked Quinton Cameron too. This was a wonderful story and I hope the author comes back to explore a few of the stories left untold (Coalan and Amber, Roan McLeod and Erlina/Shylah, Cyric Sinclair or Troy Douglas). These first three books in this series were related, but I understand that the next two though related to each other are not necessarily related to the first three. The next book in this series is, The Highlander's Prize.

Highland Hellcat by Mary Wine

Highland Hellcat by Mary Wine

The Highlander Series, Book 2

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 2010)

344 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

When Laird Connor Lindsey finds that his betrothed has taken his enemy as a lover, he decides to take a different Chattan daughter for his wife to seal the alliance between the two clans, and it just so happens that he picks Brina, unconcerned that she is promised to the church. The way that Connor takes Brina was awesome. The constant upheaval and never-ending problems that Laird Chattan finds laid at his door, particularly regarding his daughters, was something of a running gag throughout the book and I found it amusing. I liked both Connor and Brina, and enjoyed their similar pasts and inclinations making their connection to each other even more entrancing. Brina's part in the plot to save Connor young sister, Vanora, from captivity was great and I thought it made a perfect ending. The descriptions of the historical, cultural and architectural details in this book were very vivid and made the story all the more enjoyable. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, Highland Heat, about Connor's friend Quinton Cameron.

To Conquer a Highlander by Mary Wine

To Conquer a Highlander by Mary Wine

The Highlander Series, Book 1

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (July 2010)

354 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.97)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Shannon McBoyd is the daughter of a despicable Laird who is greedy and not above making traitorous deals to further his own self interests even raiding and massacring a peaceful neighboring clan. Laird Torin McLeren is determined to see justice done after one of his villages is attacked by the McBoyd, but when he sees McBoyd's daughter starting out on a journey he decides to take her and bring the matter of the attack to his overlord, the Earl, for resolution. I liked both these characters. Torin was steadfast no matter what Shannon threw at him and he had a harsh bluntness about him that I found endearing. Shannon frustrated me a bit with her stubbornness and her blind sense of duty that seemed to plague her relentlessly, but Torin always saved her from herself. I look forward to continuing this series and reading about Torin's friends Connor Lindsey (Highland Hellcat, Book 2) and Quinton Cameron (Highland Heat, Book 3).

Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks

Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks

The Montgomerys and Armstrongs, Book 1

Publisher: Ballantine Books (September 2012)

418 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

The King seeks to bring about peace between two clans that are bitter enemies by ordering a marriage between Laird Graeme Montgomery and Eveline Armstrong, daughter of Laird Armstrong. Both families and clans are appalled by the order, especially in light of the fact that Eveline is widely believed to be daft and therefore incapable adequately performing wifely duties.  The more Graeme knows of Eveline the more he suspects she isn't daft at all, but only deaf as a result of an accident years before and eventually persuades her to tell him all her secrets. This book was awesome! I loved the characters and the story. Despite the difficult situation they were thrown into, Graeme and Eveline both behaved admirably and didn't keep secrets or string out misunderstandings. The strength and fortitude of both characters was inspiring. So many wonderful possibilities to continue this series (Graeme's siblings: Bowen, Teague & Rorie, and Eveline's brothers, Aiden & Brodie). I look forward to reading Bowen's story, Highlander Most Wanted, out early next year!

Never Love a Highlander by Maya Banks

Never Love a Highlander by Maya Banks

McCabe Trilogy, Book 3

Publisher: Ballantine Books (October 2011)

305 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After being rejected by the first two McCabe brothers who had wed other women, the last and youngest McCabe brother, Caelen, stepped forward to marry Rionna in his brothers’ stead, thereby cementing the alliance that was deemed necessary not only for their own clans’ future, but the whole of the highlands. They saved the best McCabe brother for last. Caelen McCabe is such a wonderfully complex character; grumpy and brooding, yet gentle and undyingly loyal. He’s a big softy underneath it all. Rionna is quite complex herself, fierceness and strength hiding a deep vulnerability. I loved this story. Both Caelen and Rionna had been wounded deeply by their past and nothing could heal it but each other. The battle scene near the end was awesome! I don’t think it could have had a better ending. Highly recommended!

Seduction of a Highland Lass by Maya Banks

Seduction of a Highland Lass by Maya Banks

McCabe Trilogy, Book 2

Publisher: Ballantine Books (September 2011)

354 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Alaric is set to do his duty to his clan, the King and all of Scotland it would seem, by putting his own wishes aside to wed Rionna McDonald, a woman he scarcely knows, but on his way to seal his fate he is grievously injured in an ambush and nursed back to health by Keeley, a McDonald clan outcast who makes her living with her healing skills. Alaric and Keeley had wonderful chemistry from the beginning and an endearing playfulness to their relationship. This story did include some mild BDSM. I'm sorry to say that Alaric is my least favorite of the three McCabe brothers, and though he treated Keeley well in private, I was displeased that it took him so long to muster the strength and courage to do right by Keeley, and in fact remained unswayed until it appeared it was too late. I could not find him honorable throughout much of the story. Keeley's way of dealing with the whole situation was nothing less than saintly and I don't feel you could find another woman who would have acted the same in such circumstances. Once Alaric was forced to come to his senses, I was very pleased with the ending and I look forward to reading the final book in this series, Never Love a Highlander, about Caelen McCabe.

In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks

In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks

McCabe Trilogy, Book 1

Publisher: Ballantine Books (August 2011)

351 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

As illegitimate daughter of the deceased King and in possession of a desirable dowry and vast property to be bequeathed to her first born, Mairin has spent a life in hiding from the greedy men that seek to claim her riches, only to be kidnapped from the abbey by one such greedy man. Mairin escapes with a captive young boy and the pair is rescued by the boy's family, Mairin putting her faith in the young boy's promise that his father Laird Ewan McCabe will help her. I really liked these characters. Ewan was strong and confident, but not afraid to allow others to advise him, or show affection for his lady. Mairin was also strong and feisty, but didn't hide that Ewan reduced her to tears on occasion, which I felt was more genuine then some heroines who insist on putting up a hard front despite hurt feelings. This was a great story and I enjoyed the interaction between Ewan, Mairin and Ewan's two brothers, Alaric and Caelen. I look forward to reading the rest of this series. The next book in this series is Seduction of a Highland Lass about Ewan's brother, Alaric.

Love’s Reckoning by Laura Frantz

Love’s Reckoning by Laura Frantz

The Ballantyne Legacy, Book 1

Publisher: Revell (September 2012)

432 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $9.68)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Silas Ballantyne plans to finish the few months left of his apprenticeship, then head west to live out his dreams, but from the moment he steps foot in Liege Lee’s household he is met with problems and impediments unwillingly thrust upon him by his new master, not the least of which are Liege’s two daughters Elspeth and Eden, whom the man is determined to marry off. Though I found the characters and the story engaging, I nearly could not finish this book for the last half was so heart-rendering and I was so upset with the two main characters for their stubborn stupidity. Upon Eden’s stubborn insistence to hold to her secrets, Silas leaves her when she needs him the most and does not go back, not to mention his considering another woman in her absence. I almost could not get past the ugliness of it all and very well could have done without the estrangement part of the story. It didn’t seem to add anything to the story, except length and grief. That removed, the story was wonderful, with rich characters, a beautifully depicted historical world, and the refreshingly contemplative style that I have come to expect from this author. I look forward to the next installment in this series, and hope that it does not include so much needless heartache and grief.

Findley’s Lass by Suzan Tisdale

Findley’s Lass by Suzan Tisdale

The Clan MacDougall Series, Book 2

Publisher: Suzan Tisdale (September 2012)

233 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Finally healed from his injury in battle, Findley heads out with his men in hopes of bringing back the beauty that ensnared his heart after only a brief meeting that has occupied his mind ever since, only to find her and her sons missing and her village destroyed. Though they catch up with Maggy and four of her sons, they find a fifth son was taken captive, and Findley promises to get the young boy back for her. This story was well-written, fast paced, full of action and included a good bit of comedic relief here and there. Unfortunately, I had a very hard time liking Maggy, especially during the first half of this story. She was abrasive, foolishly headstrong and beyond her beauty, I have no idea what poor Findley or anyone else saw in her. In fact, I found myself sympathizing more with the villain, Malcolm Buchannan, more than her. Buchannan was such a wonderfully complex character! Maggy’s five sons: Robert, Andrew, Collin, Ian and Liam were great and I loved their interaction with Findley and his men. Findley and his men were all as great as I remembered them from the first book in this series, and I look forward to reading more of them. I’m excited to read Wee William’s story, coming Summer of 2013, and hope that the stories of Black Richard and Caelen McDunnah will follow.

Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood

Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 10

Publisher: Dutton Adult (August 2012)

369 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $12.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Olivia is a magnet for trouble and Grayson is her knight in shining armor, complete with an FBI badge, a weapon and a stubborn drive to protect her whether she likes his methods or not. If you have read other books in this series, this book pretty much follows the same pattern. I liked both Olivia and Grayson from the beginning. The interactions between Olivia and Grayson's nephew, Henry, and the other children in the story were fun, and a nice insight into another side of her character. Despite Olivia's fear of commitment, Grayson was unrelentingly tenacious and I loved that about him. There are passing references to some previous characters in this series, but none of them actually make an appearance, much to my disappointment. The ending begs for the other three pips stories to be told, perhaps beginning with Collins and Grayson's partner, Ronan. I'm still hoping to see the final three Buchanan siblings (Mike, Sidney and Zack) get their own books, as well as Lyra’s brothers, Owen and Cooper, and hopefully a side note along the way somewhere to know that Cordie and Aiden finally got together, would be nice. Keep them coming!

My Brave Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

My Brave Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Highland Adventure Series, Book 3

Publisher: Vonda Sinclair (July 2012)

357 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After being attacked by her betrothed's brother while her betrothed was away from his castle, Isobel escapes into the wintry night determined to be rid of the attachment only to be rescued by Dirk who is rushing to his father's deathbed at a neighboring clan after being absent for many years. There are so many things going on in this story that it definitely holds your attention. The characters were great and I genuinely cared about both Dirk and Isobel, as well as many of the supporting characters. There were lots of openings and unfinished business left at the end of this book. What of Nolan MacLeod, Haldane and McMurdo? I suppose they will come back to haunt future books in this series. And what about the contract with the Murrays and Seona? Hopefully, Seona will get to be with Keegan, then there is Torrin and Jessie, and Rebbie, though I would also be interested to read more about Isobel's brother, Cyrus, and perhaps even Aiden. So many wonderful possibilities! I look forward to reading more books in this series!

My Wild Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

My Wild Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Highland Adventure Series, Book 2

Publisher: Vonda Sinclair (August 2011)

271 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Her trust and faith in men deeply hurt by her past, the last man Angelique wants to be intimately tied to is a womanizer like Lachlan, but she finds herself ordered by the King to marry Lachlan after a scandalous misunderstanding while at court. Though she is loath to admit it, it seems the marriage was a stroke of luck when her enemies surface and she realizes how much she needs Lachlan’s protection, if nothing else. I loved both these characters! Lachlan is unfailingly patient, compassionate, and perceptive toward his new wife, whose prickly ways do not seem to phase or fool him, all the while trying to wade through the unfamiliar territory of being responsible for and true to someone other than himself. Angelique, guarded and fearful, expects the worst of Lachlan, but finds herself increasingly hopeful about him, despite her past. Lachlan and Angelique had such great chemistry together. The next book in this series is My Brave Highlander about Lachlan’s friend, Dirk.

My Fierce Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

My Fierce Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Highland Adventure Series, Book 1

Publisher: Vonda Sinclair (July 2011)

256 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Unable to turn away, widowed healer Gwyneth takes a risk and rescues the enemy’s chief from the battlefield and nurses him back to health. When she is found out by her own clan, she has no choice but to flee unto enemy lands with her son and hope that the man whose life she saved will be willing to return the favor. I felt the story started out well and I really liked Alasdair, but Gwyneth’s ever-changing illogical resistance became unnecessarily frustrating in the end, especially when she claimed to be doing everything as a sacrifice for her child, but with no apparent thought for Alasdair’s child and their future. Aside from my frustration with Gwyneth, I really liked this story and all of the other characters, though I thought the end was a bit painful, again largely due to Gwyneth’s irrational decisions. Nonetheless, I look forward to reading about Alasdair’s brother, Lachlan, in the next book in this series, My Wild Highlander.

The Badger City Gang by Reece Butler

The Badger City Gang by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 7

Publisher: Siren Publishing (August 2012)

233 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After the death of her mother, Kate heads west on the Bride Train hoping to build a satisfying life for herself in the less restrictive society of the west and possibly find her birth father. Zach, along with his brother Gideon and their cousin Rusty, have decided they need a wife and determine to steal one off of the Bride Train, before it reaches the end of the line and all the good ones are taken. I wasn't sure at first that I would like this one. Kate, both in character and thinking, was so like Jessie (Compromised Cowgirl, Book 3) and Sarah (Beauty and the Beasts, Book 6), neither of which I liked because they tended to be gratingly independent and carelessly hedonistic, but as this story went along I felt Kate had a little softer edge to her and a little healthier respect and wish for commitment, and I could sympathize with her logic for her behavior more than Jessie's and Sarah's. I loved all of the guys and enjoyed the glimpses of previous characters from this series. I'm hoping the Southern Gents from the Sweetwater Ranch (Flying X Brand) will be next, possibly with a side story to offer Sophie a chance at happiness as well. Looking forward to the next one!

The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz

The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell (August 2011)

408 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $8.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

With nothing but heartache and sad remnants left for her in the East, Roxanna Rowan heads to the Kentucky wilderness where her father is stationed at Fort Endeavor under Colonel Cassius McLinn. But Roxanna arrives to find her father dead and with little other alternative, herself installed in his place as the Colonel’s new scrivener. While I liked both Roxie and Cass, I found their lack of communication and mutual stubbornness to be a bit annoying after a while. It is also worth noting that this is a Christian Romance and I found it to be a bit more preachy than Frantz’s first two books. The part I had most difficulty swallowing was the heavenly army though more likely French Pox induced delusions. Thankfully, the circumstances presented in that instance at least allowed for that possibility instead of just insisting unexplained divine intervention. I also questioned the authenticity of the storyline regarding Cass’s alcohol use. Would it really be so easy to just give up such extensive daily use with no withdrawal or other ill effects? It would be nice to think so, and it is undeniably romantic to think one could instantly resolve to do it for love so easily. Despite all this, I loved the troubled, brooding Colonel enough to overlook most of this and hope he would receive Roxie’s forgiveness for his sins and secrets. Cass was such an intriguing, endearing character! For those who have read Frantz’s other books, this story includes mention of Ezekial Click’s Fort Click from Frantz’s first book, The Frontiersman’s Daughter.

Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz

Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell (July 2010)

363 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $8.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Morrow, heartsore from the massacre of her mother and baby sister as well as the capture of her older brother, by the Shawnee when she was a young child, she finds it difficult to forgive the Shawnee, and Red Shirt by association, as her father has done. Her father’s failing health hastens her need to marry, but Morrow finds her choice of suitors difficult and it comes just as so many other factors are intruding and she is struggling with her feelings toward the Shawnee. I found the tone of this story as contemplative and easy as the first book, the romance sneaking up on the characters by slow delicious degrees. I loved the character of Red Shirt, a strong, intuitive man of quiet intelligence and ease. This story includes a glimpse of famed frontiersman, Ezekial Click, and mention of his daughter, Lael, both from Frantz’s first book, The Frontiersman’s Daughter. I felt this book fulfilled my musings about what might have been if Lael had ended up with Captain Jack, and I am grateful for that satisfaction.

The Frontiersman’s Daughter by Laura Frantz

The Frontiersman’s Daughter by Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell (August 2009)

416 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $8.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

This is a coming of age story set in the Kentucky frontier. Lael, is the daughter of famed frontiersman, Ezekial Click, a mysterious, stoic man held captive in her youth by the Shawnee Indians. With strength and courage, Lael makes her way through the simplicity and harshness of frontier life, plagued by family secrets and trying to make sense of her feelings toward three different suitors. I liked how this story was not rushed or action-driven, but almost contemplative, even in its most tense moments. The characters and life itself are all shown to be extremely complicated, with no easy answers. This is a Christian Romance, so it does include religious undertones, themes and passages, but I did not find it overly preachy. I did not like the open-endedness of Captain Jack's fate in the end, and wished it had been sealed irrevocably in the epilogue with word of his death in battle or in sickness. The thought of him alive and knowing her fate lay elsewhere, feels like a betrayal to him, which I cannot accept. I prefer to think it was his spirit in the field that day and not him in body. I also would have liked to know what happened in future to Ransom. Did he ever find happiness of his own?

This is a Dark Ride by Melissa Harlow

This is a Dark Ride by Melissa Harlow

Publisher: Loose Id LLC (June 2012)

162 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $6.29)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Brody and Sam have enough problems of their own, both in their lives and in their relationship, without adding Angel’s problems as well, but they take her in anyway. All three have a sad past, and all three are struggling with the past, the present and the logistics of the relationships springing up between the three of them. I loved all three of characters. They were real people, each with their own imperfections, dealing with gritty reality, but together they hoped to help each other to put their pasts behind them and become something better. Highly recommended!

His Obsession, Her Submission by Maggie Chatterley

His Obsession, Her Submission by Maggie Chatterley

Publisher: Maggie Chatterley (July 2012)

37 pages, eBook (was available for Free on Amazon)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Daniel has wanted Kristy since high school and when their high school reunion comes around, he sees it as the perfect opportunity to make his dream come true. Let me preface this by saying that I'm not much into BDSM, sexual encounters or relationships devoid of feeling/love, or degrading words or actions from a lover, but I do understand that these things may be appealing to others. With that said, this story included all of that and I found parts of this story disturbing. I like disturbing, as long as it doesn't cross a certain line, and this story for me did not cross that line. I also found Kristy's confusion about her own feelings, throughout much of the story, to be oddly fascinating, and I felt Daniel was a very compelling dominate character. Overall, I enjoyed the story.

Hammer it Home by Jayne Rylon

Hammer it Home by Jayne Rylon

Powertools, Book 6

Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd. (August 2012)

128 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I enjoyed this story so much more than the previous one in this series. There is depth and evolution in both the characters and the plot of this story on so many levels, even in the relationships between various crew members. Even through their toughest times, the crew pulls together like the strongest of families, making sure no one gets left behind and it is beautiful to watch. Awesome! I look forward to reading about Joe's cousin, Eli, and his crew in the upcoming Hot Rods series!

The Luna Moth by Melissa Harlow

The Luna Moth by Melissa Harlow

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (October 2010)

114 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.79)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This is such a beautiful story! Cole had spent a life being pigeon-holed and looked down upon and Regina was down on her luck and going through a rough time. This story shows that just because everyone else says it or believes it doesn’t make it true and sometimes it just takes the right person to make a big difference in someone’s life.