A Convenient Husband by Reece Butler

A Convenient Husband by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 4

Publisher: Siren Publishing (September 2011)

326 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $6.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Though I liked Florence, Ben and Patrick, Ranger was by far my favorite character in this story. He is such a wonderfully complex character that we only got to see glimpses of in the previous book. I did feel the children, Emma and Johnny, were a bit too conveniently disposed of quite early in the story without another thought. Also, the ending seemed a bit rushed and abrupt, but knowing how this series continues on with characters and story lines from the preceding books, I expect updates on and confirmation of the Bitterroot’s happily ever after will be included in the following books. I look forward to the next book in this series (1 Bed, 2 Weddings, 3 Husbands) about the J Bar C men.

Compromised Cowgirl by Reece Butler

Compromised Cowgirl by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 3

Publisher: Siren Publishing (June 2011)

284 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $6.59)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I have to admit I didn't much care for Jessie. I usually like feisty and independent, but she oftentimes seemed gratingly so. I also didn't really care for Ace in the beginning, though he significantly improved as he went along. Sin and Henry were sweethearts, I liked both men from the beginning, and they were definitely this story's saving grace. Characters from the first two books in this series continued to play a significant role in this book, which I liked. I am looking forward to reading the Circle C mens' story, but I see I have to wait until Book 6 for that. I look forward to continuing this series with the next book, A Convenient Husband, which is about the second set of Elliott brothers.

A Contract Bride’s Triple Surprise by Reece Butler

A Contract Bride’s Triple Surprise by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 2

Publisher: Siren Publishing (February 2011)

372 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $6.59)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This series seems to have a bit different take on the menage relationship from other similar books I have read. In other books, all the men involved were of equal status in the relationship, all considered husbands, regardless of the woman only being legally wed to one of the men. This series has only the legally married man being a true husband, while the other men seem to be of lesser status, without as many rights and privileges in the relationship, and at times just along for the ride (no pun intended). Not a bad difference, just different. I liked how many of the characters in this story had a past to overcome. Amelia was great with all three MacDougal brothers (Ross, Nevin and Gillis) and I was glad to see characters from the first book in this series continue to play a part in this book. I look forward to the next book in this series, Compromised Cowgirl.

Barefoot Bride for Three by Reece Butler

Barefoot Bride for Three by Reece Butler

Bride Train Series, Book 1

Publisher: Siren Publishing (September 2010)

214 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.79)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I loved this book! Beth was feisty and engaging, and the Elliott brothers were perfect. Trace, Simon and Jack each showed their affection for Beth in their own individual way, fitting to their very different personalities. It took them a while to settle into their new life, but it was enjoyable to watch. I look forward to the next book in this series, A Contract Bride's Triple Surprise, about the Elliotts' neighbors and good friends the MacDougals.

Sizzle by Julie Garwood

Sizzle by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 8

Publisher: Ballantine Books (December 2009)

382 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

If you are this far along in this series, you have long ago discovered that all the books in this series follow a definite predictable pattern. I almost considered taking a break from this series, just to mix it up a bit, but decided to go for one more, and I’m glad I did. I really liked Sam and Lyra from the beginning and enjoyed seeing their relationship develop. The mystery definitely kept me interested and the storyline with the inept hired thug was priceless, comedic relief. Alec, Jack and Sidney make brief appearances and there is a nice nod at the end to the Kincaids of The Bride. I hope to see more of Sidney and Lyra’s brothers, Owen and Cooper, in a future book.

Fire and Ice by Julie Garwood

Fire and Ice by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 7

Publisher: Ballantine Books (December 2008)

337 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I thought this story was a bit slow to start and the story line with the wolves was hard to pay attention to, since I wasn’t sure if it was meant literally or not and it didn’t make any sense until the end. I have to admit, though I didn’t dislike her, Sophie wasn’t my favorite character from Alec and Regan’s story, Murder List. She still isn’t my favorite character in the world, but her interesting background, being Bobby Rose’s daughter and getting to know her a little better, allowed me to warm up to her a little bit. I didn’t like Jack at first, he seemed conceited and unfeeling, but my opinion of him improved as the story progressed. The running gag with the YouTube video was great. Once Jack and Sophie were together their chemistry was good, and I liked Jack’s no-nonsense attitude. Will Cordie and Aiden ever get together? Even if they don’t get their own book, I hope to hear mention of them in some future book saying they got their happily ever after. I look forward to the next book in this series, Sizzle.

Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood

Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 6

Publisher: Ballantine Books (December 2006)

352 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Noah’s story is the one I had been waiting for since I finished the first book in this series and was introduced to him. For the most part I was pleased, though I wish he hadn’t left her in limbo near the end when he could have made his intentions clear, especially since her whole family clearly knew his intentions toward her. I liked Jordan and was glad to get to know her a little better. I hope the final three Buchanan siblings (Mike, Sidney and Zack) will eventually get their own books. For those who have read Garwood’s historical romances this story incorporates characters, families and events from some of those books, in particular the book Shadow Music. I look forward to the next book in this series, Fire and Ice.

Slow Burn by Julie Garwood

Slow Burn by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 5

Publisher: Ballantine Books (August 2005)

368 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I’m not sure why, but I didn’t much care for Kate or her sisters in the beginning, but they grew on me. Dylan, surprisingly enough, I liked from the beginning even though I’m usually not too much for the player type, in general. I liked that Kate and Dylan had an interesting history between them that had been slowly evolving for sometime already, unlike many of the other stories in this series where most of the couples were previously strangers to each other. I am excited to finally move on to Noah’s story, Shadow Dance . . . it’s been a long wait.

Murder List by Julie Garwood

Murder List by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 4

Publisher: Ballantine Books (August 2004)

448 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Regan wasn’t the spoiled little rich girl that one would expect, and that is exactly why she had such good chemistry with Alec from the very beginning. Like his brothers, Alec radiates an irresistible self-confidence that I loved. I enjoyed getting to know Regan’s friends and family (though we didn’t get to see much of her brother, Walker, and I got the feeling he would be interesting enough to warrant his own book). We got a few glimpses of Nick and Noah from some of the previous books in this series. I look forward to the next book, Slow Burn, about Dylan, the next Buchanan brother.

Killjoy by Julie Garwood

Killjoy by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 3

Publisher: Ballantine Books (September 2002)

464 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

John Paul is dark, brooding and very intriguing and Avery is just right for him. She doesn’t take any of his crap and is nearly as stubborn as he is. I loved the slow evolution of their relationship, the mystery was wonderfully complex and there were a few parts that were down right hilarious. Noah, from the first two books, makes a small appearance near the end of this book, and a few other previous characters from this series are commented on. I look forward to the next book, Murder List, about Alec, another one of the Buchanan brothers.

Mercy by Julie Garwood

Mercy by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 2

Publisher: Atria Books (September 2001)

496 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I really enjoyed this story. There were multiple story lines to follow until near the end when they start intersecting and everything comes together, just as a good Mystery/Thriller should. Theo and Michelle were great and had wonderful chemistry from the beginning. There are a few short glimpses of Theo’s brother, Nick, from the first book and one of my favorite characters from the first book, Noah, plays a prominent role in this story as well. I look forward to the next book, Killjoy, about Michelle’s brother, John Paul.

Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood

Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood

Buchanan-Renard Series, Book 1

Publisher: Atria Books (February 2001)

520 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $7.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

If you are used to this author’s historical romances, this book is a little lite on the romance in comparison. This is more like a mystery/thriller with a love interest subplot, which is fine if that is what you were expecting. The characters were great and I found not only the main characters but also the supporting characters very engaging. Nick and Laurant were beautiful together. I thought the mystery story was good and not too predictable. I would have liked to read Noah’s story next, but I see I have to wait until Book 6. The next book, Mercy, is about Nick’s brother, Theo.

Her Personal Security by Becca Van

Her Personal Security by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 6

Publisher: Siren Publishing (March 2012)

101 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This story was great, with just enough thrills thrown in along the way. Giles, Remy and Brandon were perfect. Each individuals, but all caring, compassionate and protective. Kayli, though cautious at the beginning, quickly warms to them with a few reassurances along the way. Will there be a Book 7 to tell Brandt and Cord's story? I hope so.

Her Shadow Men by Becca Van

Her Shadow Men by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 5

Publisher: Siren Publishing (March 2012)

103 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Britt and Daniel were awesome! Such sweet, caring, determined, protective guys. Debbie was being so difficult throughout the whole first half of the story, it was almost to the point were she was unlikable, until she had her religious experience and a change of heart . . . but I didn’t hold it against her by the end of the book, by that time she had redeemed herself. The dialogue was a bit cheesy at times and there were a few parts where I didn’t feel Britt and Daniel’s actions jived with their training and operative abilities. The crazed person in this one was a former associate of Britt and Daniel. I look forward to the last book in this series, Her Personal Security, the Alcott Brothers story.

Leah’s Irish Heroes by Becca Van

Leah’s Irish Heroes by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 4

Publisher: Siren Publishing (February 2012)

103 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Though I understand the appeal of an Irish accent (or most any accent for that matter), I’m still confused as to how two young Irish men grew up on a ranch or served in the U.S. Military. There were also some unrealistic passages with regard to Leah’s weight (if she is supposed to be 5’9” and pleasingly plump, she’d weigh a lot more than 130 lbs.). But, whatever . . . maybe I’m just taking this a bit too seriously. That aside, the characters and story were great. Leah was easy to like from the beginning. Connell and Seamus, who we were introduced to in the last book, were great and I was happy to read their story. I look forward to Book 5, Her Shadow Men.

Her Ex-Marines by Becca Van

Her Ex-Marines by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 3

Publisher: Siren Publishing (December 2011)

98 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I loved Damon, Tyson and Sam! They immediately recognized what they wanted and went after it with no second thoughts. I also liked Rachel and felt she was easy to relate to. The story was good and it was nice to have a little glimpse of the characters from Book 2, Double E Ranch. Very satisfying short read and I look forward to Book 4, Leah's Irish Heroes.

Double E Ranch by Becca Van

Double E Ranch by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 2

Publisher: Siren Publishing (December 2011)

118 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

All three men in this book, Tom, Billy and Luke, were so sweet and caring that I didn’t mind their little bursts of dominance, I even found it a bit endearing. Felicity I liked from the very beginning. She had spirit and put up a good fight, but was also wise enough to stop fighting against something she wanted. The crazed ex-ranch hand storyline, much like the crazed ex-girlfriend storyline in the first book in this series, was entertaining. Great little story. I look forward to Book 3, Her Ex-Marines.

Slick Rock Cowboys by Becca Van

Slick Rock Cowboys by Becca Van

Slick Rock Series, Book 1

Publisher: Siren Publishing (November 2011)

110 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I'm not big on Dominant/Submissive or violence and this included some serious spanking, but the Dominance was almost playful, so I didn't mind it as much. I liked Tara and enjoyed her fiery willingness to push against the men's dominance a bit. Though I liked Clay and Johnny, I was upset on Tara's behalf for their past betrayal and sympathized with Tara's unwillingness to accept their stupid excuses for their past behavior. The crazy ex-girlfriend storyline was entertaining, though probably unnecessary. Nice, short little read. I will continue on to Book 2 in this series, Double E Ranch.

The Bikers and the Socialite by Marla Monroe

The Bikers and the Socialite by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 6

Publisher: Siren Publishing (May 2012)

114 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I'm not sure why I so liked Parker, when I didn't like Carly from the last book much at first, but perhaps Parker's ulterior motives made me feel better about her easy acceptance of hopping into their bed so quickly, as if it was the price she had to pay for her scheme against her evil stepmother. I loved both Shane and Allen and the story was great! I'm sad to see this series end, and will miss spending time with The Dirty Dozen. You have to love any group of people who will stand by each other, no matter what comes their way. Great series!

Her Biker Boyfriends by Marla Monroe

Her Biker Boyfriends by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 5

Publisher: Siren Publishing (March 2012)

138 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I didn’t particularly care for Carly in the beginning. She was entirely too eager and willing to jump in bed with two strangers after only one dance, but eventually I began to like her and even felt bad for her when Ranger was acting so stupid toward her. I really liked Drew and felt the story itself was interesting and explored more of the real world implications of such a relationship more than the other books in the series. What happened to Briana, Gavin and Dillon’s twins (a story line from the previous two books)? This book said they only had a daughter . . . one daughter. Maybe it is another editorial mistake, this series has a fair amount of editorial errors, but not so much that it is unreadable. This book was not my favorite of the series, but I continue on to the last book in this series, The Bikers and the Socialite.

Their Biker Babe in Training by Marla Monroe

Their Biker Babe in Training by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 4

Publisher: Siren Publishing (March 2012)

119 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

The setup for this story was more than a little difficult to find convincing or believable, but once you get past that the rest of the story is great. I really liked the characters. Alexis was someone who took herself a little too seriously (part of the reason the beginning was less than convincing), and Neal and Mark were just the type of men to help her loosen up a bit. I look forward to reading Book 5, Her Biker Boyfriends.

Her Biker Bodyguards by Marla Monroe

Her Biker Bodyguards by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 3

Publisher: Siren Publishing (March 2012)

138 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I liked this story, but found myself becoming annoyed with Gavin and Briana, because they seemed to be making everything unnecessarily difficult. I felt sorry for poor Dillon, having to put up with the both of them, though I wished he would have stood up and made his feelings known, instead of waiting for the other two to come around. I really liked the beginning and the end, the middle I found irritating. I do really like this series and look forward to Book 4, Their Biker Babe in Training.

The Bikers’ Babe by Marla Monroe

The Bikers’ Babe by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 2

Publisher: Siren Publishing (January 2012)

115 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I enjoyed this story and liked all the characters. Cole and Zack were great sensitive alpha men and Tina had enough spirit to make her engaging. I felt the writing in this book was a bit better than the first book in this series, but there were still a lot of editorial errors. The stories in this series all seem to follow the same general formula, but with enough differences to keep it interesting. I look forward to reading Book 3, Her Biker Bodyguards.

Brandy’s Bikers by Marla Monroe

Brandy’s Bikers by Marla Monroe

The Dirty Dozen, Book 1

Publisher: Siren Publishing (December 2011)

124 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.39)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

I felt the writing was a little rough and there were a lot of editorial errors, but I liked the story and I loved the characters. Kyle and West were sweet, loving guys and Brandy was easy to like, never taking anything for granted and never expecting too much of others.