Highland Homecoming by B. J. Scott

Highland Homecoming by B. J. Scott

The Fraser Brothers Trilogy, Book 3

Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing (September 2013)

224 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Alasdair, known by all to be outspoken about his intention not to marry or become entangled in a relationship, happens upon an unconscious young lady washed upon the beach in nothing but a nightgown and grudging accepts responsibility for seeing her well only to have the situation further complicated when she wakes up with amnesia. The mystery woman, who thinks her name might possibly be Lauren, was a little overly cautious in the beginning, I thought, but became much more likable as the story went on and you got to see more of her feisty, determined spirit. My only complaints are I got a little weary of Alasdair's stubbornness and unceasing excuses for not being fit to wed and I wish the incident with the maid sent to change the bed sheets had been resolved, it smacked a little too much of infidelity for me (Alasdair got off entirely too easily there, but perhaps it was a misunderstanding . . . I'll hope). Great action-packed ending as Alasdair races against time to make his claim before it's too late. Nice ending to a great series!

Taught to Obey by Powerone

Taught to Obey by Powerone

Sequel to Taught to Submit

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (September 2013)

160 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Lisa and her daughters, Christina and Elise, had been stranded on a small island in Panama when their plane broke down on the way to Rio Carnival, but after a few days with the local men, they decide to spend the rest of their vacation there instead of going ahead to Rio, hoping to continue with what they've started, some getting more than they bargained for and some realizing they didn't fully understand what they bargained for. This picks up seamlessly where Taught to Submit left off, delving even deeper into the depravity of desire, exploring more forbidden territory not covered in the first book, and blurs the lines just a bit more between what is acceptable and what is not. While all three women were basically being trained to be wanton, it was interesting to see Christina find her strength once again and wield her sexuality to take her revenge. Once again this contains vivid descriptions of dubious consent situations and rough sexual situations which may be out of some readers' comfort zone, in addition this contains a few socially taboo scenarios that may be off-putting for some. An interesting story highlighting how little control we have over our desires and how easily they can be played upon.

Taught to Submit by Powerone

Taught to Submit by Powerone

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (March 2012)

196 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Lisa had encouraged an almost prudish caution regarding men and sex with her daughters, Christina and Elise, but now that they are 19, she's setting them and herself free upon the world and they are celebrating with a trip to Rio Carnival, but due to a plane breakdown they find themselves stuck in Bocus Del Toro, all three catching the attention of men who recognize the girls as ripe for manipulation and degradation. I thought this story did a really good job of illustrating their mirroring perverse desires, that of the men wanting to inflict pain and humiliation, and that of the women wanting to feel pain and be humiliated or otherwise be made to be submissive. In a manipulative sort of way the men seem to be helping the women, but all parties involved are in no doubt the controlled, cold, unfeeling men are entirely motivated by selfishness. Despite all parties being over 18, there is a strong sense of the dirty old man messing around with the innocent young girl and abusing his position of authority in many scenarios here. Contains vivid descriptions of dubious consent situations and rough sexual situations which may be out of some readers' comfort zone. Nothing politically correct or warm and fuzzy here, but an interesting exploration of forbidden desires. Followed by Taught to Obey.

Night is Darkest by Jayne Rylon

Night is Darkest by Jayne Rylon

Men in Blue Series, Book 1

Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd. (November 2009)

264 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.24)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Lacey's life has been full of tragedy, the latest of which was her brother's murder in the line of duty, so she reaches out to her brother's two best friends for comfort, not knowing that her longtime crushes on them weren't unrequited but they'd just been biding their time and trying to sort out their feelings for each other. Great cop menage romance with some BDSM thrown in, though I thought it was done sweetly without much bite, which I thought was nice. Lacey could be a bit harsh and uncompromising at times, but Mason's careful dominance and Tyler's tenderness was a perfect offset for it, always able to quickly soften her between them. I loved the shared history and Mason and Tyler's interaction was great! The next book in this series is Razor's Edge.

Love’s Awakening by Laura Frantz

Love’s Awakening by Laura Frantz

The Ballantyne Legacy, Book 2

Publisher: Revell (September 2013)

417 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $8.54)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Ellie comes home after a long absence at finishing school only to be thrown together unexpectedly with Jack, a son of a family ever at odds with hers, but she finds him changed and at times seeming to seek redemption for his family's sins. I loved this story! So many great characters, the hero and heroine the best of bunch, with all their fascinating layers. So many story lines woven together here in a complicated mesh that flowed effortlessly, keeping me riveted to the end. I only wish Chloe could have fared better. It was interesting to see all of the complications and ramifications that materialize from being involved with the Underground Railroad. I can't wait for Book 3 in this series, due out Fall 2014, so I can find out what happened to Ansel and I'm excited to read Wren's story. A year seems like a lifetime to wait!

Rancher's Healing Touch by Arthur Mitchell

Rancher's Healing Touch by Arthur Mitchell

Publisher: Red Ice Press (June 2013)

107 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Brax saves Sadie from the wreckage of her car, but the amnesia left behind ensures her past remains elusive for both of them, though the dreams she's had since makes her uncertain she wants her memory to return and perhaps ruin her chance for a fresh start. The longer she's at the ranch, the more certain Brax becomes that he'll do anything to shield her from her past. Nice western romance with a bit of mystery and a nice isolated setting with just enough vigilante freedom to deal with problems without interference. Quick, entertaining read!

Forever Mine by Donna Grant

Forever Mine by Donna Grant

Publisher: Donna Grant (September 2011)

53 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Braden has been working for a long time to exact his revenge on Niall, and seeing Jean as Niall's captive only makes Braden more determined to see it done. A great highlander version of love at first sight, with interesting and likable characters. I liked Jean's strength and determination. Once she was thrown into Braden's world, she was more than willing to take on her share of the fight. I thought the ending was a bit rushed, but it didn't bother me overly much. I wish Braden's commander, Keith, could have his own story. He was such a great character, and I'm sure many of the men in Braden's ranks would be of interest had we gotten the opportunity to known them individually. Would make a nice series. This is a short story, but I felt for the length, it seemed very complete.

Love Unexpected: Nighttime Tales by Anne Glynn

Love Unexpected: Nighttime Tales by Anne Glynn

Publisher: Blackpool Press (March 2013)

307 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This is a collection of short romance stories including all the previously individually released stories, plus the bonus Carole's Christmas (contemporary romance take on A Christmas Carol). This collection is also available in a "clean-ish" version under the title Love Unexpected, which includes a fun revamp in Carole's Christmas: Dental Version. Included tales range from alien encounters to zombies to mail order brides and a manual for seduction. All light-hearted fun and great short reads! Neat idea to have two versions to accommodate people's tastes. Great collection!

World War Zelda by Anne Glynn

World War Zelda by Anne Glynn

Publisher: Blackpool Press (June 2013)

45 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Zelda is a chemist and perfume maker doomed to try and work with the whims and utter ignorance of the famous celebrity Ka¢entra, who wants her own signature perfume. This tale follows their professional relationship and its connection to the Zombie Apocalypse that followed. Amusing zombie story, with a nice mix of characters and a great surprise ending. I believe this is the "clean-ish" version of this story. A more graphic, slightly racier version can be found in the collection entitled Love Unexpected: Nighttime Tales. I have to say, I prefer the unedited one, but to each their own.

Area 69 by Anne Glynn

Area 69 by Anne Glynn

Publisher: Blackpool Press (May 2012)

58 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Sick of her mooching, loafer boyfriend, Leah dumps him and sets out looking for a new adventure, applying for a secret government job in Nevada. In fact the job is so secret, they won't even tell her just exactly what it is. For the most part, it is a tale about Leah and her romantic prospects, both before and after her benign alien encounter. Good fun and I loved Leah's internal dialogue throughout. Excellent ending!

Sun Zu's The Art of Whore by Anne Glynn

Sun Zu's The Art of Whore by Anne Glynn

Publisher: Blackpool Press (March 2012)

39 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

A little uptight and a bit jealous of her friend's good fortune, Michelle is reluctant to take her friend's advice and read the book that she claims turned her luck around, and the book's lurid nature or off-putting title doesn't help matters. This is a fun story of a woman learning the art of seduction from a step-by-step manual, of sorts. Nice, enjoyable light read!

To Protect and Service by Anne Glynn

To Protect and Service by Anne Glynn

Publisher: Blackpool Press (June 2012)

58 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Ollie's got big Hollywood dreams, and she's hurt that her boyfriend Tanner doesn't believe a little more in the things she wants out of life, so she ends up leaving him to see what she can make of herself in California. This was a fun short story about coming back to what you left behind when you find nothing quite measures up to what you had. Sweet, upbeat read!

Indentured Bride by Joan Russell

Indentured Bride by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (December 2012)

39 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After abruptly losing her entire family and much of their household staff to illness, then having been betrayed by the man that had handled her father's finances, Maggie finds herself thrust upon the harsh world with few alternatives to ensure her own survival but to sell herself into indentured servitude in the Colonies. I was a bit concerned about what was in store for Maggie here, having read some other stories by this author, but was pleasantly surprised. Joshua was a true knight in shining armor, saving Maggie at a time in her life when she needed it most. Loved this story!

Mail Order Bride: Kim by Joan Russell

Mail Order Bride: Kim by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (October 2012)

14 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Kim has been groomed by her mother to be the perfect virgin bride, hoping that her marriage to an American man will provide monetary gain or other familial benefit. I was drawn to this story because it was a modern day version of the mail order bride scenario. Though there was a good deal of BDSM in this story, I found it a bit easier to take than in the previous installment in this series, because the husband here seemed to possess at least a little affection for his bride, despite his overriding selfishness. I’m still a bit uncertain about the ending, but I choose to view it optimistically and wish Kim the best.

Mail Order Bride: Svetlana by Joan Russell

Mail Order Bride: Svetlana by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (June 2012)

14 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Hoping for a chance at a fresh start, Svetlana offers herself as a mail order bride to an American husband. What she did not expect was to start the consummation almost the minute they walked in the door of her new home, or that her new husband’s two friends would be there to welcome them and actively participate in said consummation. I was drawn to this story because it was a modern day version of the mail order bride scenario, but there was a bit too much BDSM for my taste and I wish Svetlana had a bit brighter future to look forward to in the end. I found it bleak and disturbingly realistic.

Stolen Bride by Joan Russell

Stolen Bride by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (October 2012)

17 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Gwendolyn had noticed some interested looks as she worked as a maid at the Manor House, but was surprised when the Lord of the Manor demanded his Right of First Night just after her wedding. Interesting scenario, that left Gwendolyn with little time to think up a strategy to deal with the Lord’s actions, though she seemed a bit too willing and lacking in loyalty to her new husband, in my opinion. I also wish the ending had provided a bit more closure, or at least a hint of what would follow.

Pirate Captives by Powerone

Pirate Captives by Powerone

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (June 2010)

159 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

When their ship is overtaken and attacked by pirates, Abigail, Prudence, Jasmine and Francine are taken captive and find they are at the mercy of their sadomasochistic captors with no possibility of escape, as the pirates look forward to training the mostly untried young women in the sexual arts. I found this difficult to read. There are graphic descriptions of dubious consent situations, abuse (both physical and mental) and intolerable degradation. Not only were each of the four women systematically broken down in spirit and in body, but in the end, each of them became not only resigned to it, but seemed to derive some twisted form of fulfillment from it. I prefer to have a happy ending to look forward to, if the characters have to go through so much horribleness, but this story, in my opinion, didn't even provide that. All the men were horrible and evil right to the end, never giving any indication of real affection for any of the girls. Twisted and depressing, and definitely not my cup of tea, but well-written, despite a fair number of editorial mistakes. It definitely makes you feel disgust, pity and outrage on behalf of the women. Not for the faint of heart.

Virgin in a North Texas Cat House by Joan Russell

Virgin in a North Texas Cat House by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (April 2013)

44 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Giselle has sought out therapy for an addiction to violent sex and cruel men, and finds that her past lives hold the answer to her problems. This story includes graphic descriptions of rough/violent sex and rape, and is not for the faint of heart. I thought the idea behind the story was interesting and felt it was presented in an engaging, believable way. My only regret was that we didn't get to find out what happened with Tad and I didn't care much for the open-ended ending. Interesting little story.

Wicked and Wild West by Powerone

Wicked and Wild West by Powerone

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (October 2011)

202 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Madison, her husband and their two adult daughters (Samantha and Belle) decide to try their luck out west as many of their friends have done, but their journey there forces them to run the gauntlet of all imaginable horrors that could befall women of the time period on such a journey. This story is gritty and graphic, and includes many dubious consent situations, doctor/patient abuse of trust, and a variety of BDSM situations. Though each of the three women get a happily ever after, of sorts, in the end, none of the men in this story are exactly warm and fuzzy, so if that's what you are looking for in a hero, you should look elsewhere. I felt the writing was a bit rough in the beginning, but got better as the story went along, and there were a fair number of editorial errors. Overall, a decent story for those who know what they are getting into here.

The Viagra Monologues by Joan Russell

The Viagra Monologues by Joan Russell

Publisher: Joan Russell (January 2013)

26 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After taking Viagra and wearing out his date, William arrives at the emergency room, hoping the medical staff can help him find some relief, and he finds the nurses more than willing to help. This was a sweet, short story about a desperate man who finds what he is looking for in the most unlikely place. The perfect, beautiful women shouldn't always get the guy, after all. Quick Read!