Lina by Debra Holland

Lina by Debra Holland

Mail-Order Brides of the West, Book 4

The Montana Sky Series, Prequel

Publisher: Debra Holland (January 2014)

195 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

After having lost his Native American wife in childbirth, Jonah finds trying to run a farm with a toddler in tow is becoming too difficult, so on the advice of friends he sends for a mail-order bride, hoping Lina won't look down on his son's half-white/half-native american heritage. Great story of a man stuck in a rut and the vibrant woman who hopes to pull him out of his bleak isolation and help him to start living. I loved Lina's willingness to jump in and make the best of things, while taking a stand on the things that meant most to her. Loved the incorporation of the Montana Sky characters, Wyatt Thompson (Starry Montana Sky) and Tyler Dunn (Painted Montana Sky), being able to see bits of the past that had been referred to in their stories was awesome! I'm hoping for Bertha's story soon, and looking forward to reading Darcy's story, which is due out this summer!

Harvest of Dreams by Debra Holland

Harvest of Dreams by Debra Holland

The Gods' Dream Trilogy, Book 3

Publisher: Debra Holland (August 2013)

398 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $5.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

As the peoples and deities of Kimtair unite to oppose the Evil God once and for all, hoping to render the oppressing presence harmless, they also strive to offer some of those who had been under the Evil God's control freedom and some form of redemption. Newly freed, Thaddis joins in leading part of the force, hoping to redeem his past, while he is joined by a new warrior from Earth, Sadie, who's fencing training and strong "othersense" abilities add to their strength. Great conclusion to the series, as people from all sides struggle to put their differences aside and join together for their common cause. I also appreciated how many of the villains weren't just dispatched with, but given a chance to choose another path. I loved this series so much, I'm thinking to branch out and give Lywin's Quest (1st book of the Twinborne Trilogy by this author) a try! Great series!

Reaper of Dreams by Debra Holland

Reaper of Dreams by Debra Holland

The Gods' Dream Trilogy, Book 2

Publisher: Debra Holland (August 2011)

312 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Jasmine has escaped a traumatic experience only to be thrown into a world of turmoil that needs her strength and paranormal gifts, most of all the mysterious blonde man she sees in her dreams. Indaran has been held captive many long years by an evil deity, fighting to keep his will strong and the dream visions of Jasmine begin just at the right moment that he needs a little encouragement and support. The themes of faith in God and overcoming doubt in God, in these books, is one of my favorite aspects of this series. It is done in such a way that it doesn't feel overly religious and it doesn't champion any religion in particular, only the connection with a good and wise deity. The "othersense" connection from person to person and between a person and their deity is another great concept that I loved. Jasmine and Indaran were both strong, self-less characters who stepped up to the challenge of what was required of them, despite their self-doubt and self-recrimination, and I thought they were both inspiring. I look forward to reading the conclusion to this series in, Harvest of Dreams!

Sower of Dreams by Debra Holland

Sower of Dreams by Debra Holland

The Gods' Dream Trilogy, Book 1

Publisher: Debra Holland (December 2013)

326 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Surrounded by her father and brothers in the land that she loves, Daria never could have imagined that anything could threaten all that she holds dear, until a thwarted suitor turns her world upside down and she finds herself running for her life. Khan is on the run as well, and having found a refuge, he finds his new home lonely . . . that is until he begins meeting Daria in his dreams, daring to hope that one day they will meet face to face. I was a bit hesitant about this series at first, because Sci-Fi/Fantasy isn't one of my usual reading choices, but I loved this story! The mix of fantasy, universal spirituality, and vivid landscapes combined to form a fascinating world that I couldn't help but be drawn into, where even the villains were rich with complexity. Great story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Reaper of Dreams!

Where You Lead by Mary Calmes

Where You Lead by Mary Calmes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 2013)

69 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Pete and Carver had been together for six months when it became necessary for Carver to move home to Kentucky to help take care of his parents, and he worried that Pete wouldn't follow him. This is a short story centering on their Christmas visit to Kentucky together, sort of a trial run before any final decisions needed to be made. I loved how the story was interspersed with bits of their past together. Pete's interaction with Carver's parents was sweet, and everything about these people was so real that I really got attached to all of them as the story went along. Great read!

Caged by Skye Warren

Caged by Skye Warren

The Dystopia Series, Book 2

Publisher: M/M Romance Group (July 2013)

65 pages, eBook (available for Free on the M/M Romance Group Website)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Cor's locked in a prison cell and he can't remember why or how he came to be there, all he knows is he's feeling increasingly protective of his cellmate, Lack, and doesn't like how the guards treat the weaker more fragile young man. Sweet story about two people, each finding their own reasons to switch loyalties and follow their heart, in spite of their past. I loved Cor and his rough protective presence, it was a perfect contrast to Lack's openness and gentle desire to please. Great story!

Leashed by Skye Warren

Leashed by Skye Warren

The Dystopia Series, Book 1

Publisher: Skye Warren (September 2012)

62 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Captured in a raid, Sebastian has been taken by the Ke'lan to be interrogated, unfortunately he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and has no intel to provide them, even if he wanted to, but the Ke'lan aren't likely to believe that. Drake was sent to interrogate the young man, but unexpected attraction leads Drake to do things he never would have imagined only days before. Drake and Sebastian's relationship is rocky and uncertain, but it was even more beautiful because of the rough edges, then it would have been without them. I loved the HEA at the end. The next book in this series is Caged, available for free from the M/M Romance Group Website.

Further Explorations by David Russell

Further Explorations by David Russell

Sequel to Explorations

Publisher: Devine Destinies (February 2012)

51 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

After their exhilarating experience together in Explorations, Janice and Cedric are determined to spread their wings and follow wherever self-growth and self-discovery take them, while keeping each other abreast of their progress by frequently checking in with each other. This, more than the first installment, was highly metaphorical and abstract, leading you through an academic accounting of Janice and Cedric's progress with vibrant descriptive allegory and euphemism. Interesting and well-written, but a bit too abstract and cerebral for my taste.

Explorations by David Russell

Explorations by David Russell

Publisher: eXtasy Books (July 2010)

27 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Both newly divorced and trying to make sense of their newly acquired freedom, Janice and Cedric simultaneously gravitate to live model drawing classes and swimming, their increasing acquaintance leading to a more private modeling experience. Great story, with wonderfully descriptive narration and profound insights into the void left by the absence of a long attachment, whether pleasant or not.  A lovely non-threatening interlude for two people looking to get back in the game. This story has a sequel entitled Further Explorations.

Therapy Rapture by David Russell

Therapy Rapture by David Russell

Publisher: Devine Destinies (April 2013)

46 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Feeling an attraction to his therapist that he wishes he could act on, Perry is happy to follow her advice and describe to her a dream fantasy during one of his therapy sessions, and he was beyond pleased with the outcome. An interesting conglomeration of fantasy scenarios presented in wonderfully descriptive sensuality, representing Perry's ultimate dream date. A poetic and enjoyable short read.

Darlene by David Russell

Darlene by David Russell

Sequel to An Ecstatic Rendezvous

Publisher: Devine Destinies (July 2013)

20 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

After his experience with Sandra in An Ecstatic Rendezvous, our man is ready for another tryst and arranges to meet Darlene for a date. With his penchant for fantasy stories and dress-up scenarios, his second experience is a similarly controlled wooing that he soaks in with vibrant relish, though Darlene's checkered past adds an element of danger he had not foreseen. Nice sequel to An Ecstatic Rendezvous.

Fools' Paradise by David Russell

Fools' Paradise by David Russell

Publisher: Devine Destinies (September 2013)

28 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.59)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Looking for a break from his usual existence, Jim sets out to stay in a rural hostel, of sorts, unaware of the trouble that seems to surround the place, and he inevitably gets drawn up in the mess. This reminded me of a 60's movie (A Hard Day's Night or Breakfast at Tiffany's), where people say and do strange things, the whole thing being a bit of an enigma, but in an interesting, mesmerizing sort of way. His brief and undefined relationship with Celia just lent extra intrigue to the events. Interesting short read.

An Ecstatic Rendezvous by David Russell

An Ecstatic Rendezvous by David Russell

Publisher: Devine Destinies (October 2013)

19 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.59)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

This is a short story, told in first person, about a shy man who is inexperienced with women, yet a self-proclaimed narcissist, and he is seeking a sexual encounter with the woman of his dreams. The narrating voice is quirky and comical, at times, making it a fun read as this man takes you through his rendezvous, an experience he has clearly thought about at length beforehand and meticulously planned. Great read and I look forward to reading other stories by this author! This story has a sequel entitled Darlene.

The Conquest by Julia Templeton

The Conquest by Julia Templeton

Sequel to The Bargain

Publisher: Berkley Trade (August 2008)

272 pages, Paperback (purchased myself for $4.00)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Rhiannon's hand in marriage has been awarded an older Norman baron for his service to the King, but Rhiannon dreads having to follow through with the marriage and it only makes matters worse when she falls for Adelstan, the escort charged with bringing her to her betrothed. Rhiannon was a headstrong woman who could be a little too bold at times, but her honesty and reluctance to settle endeared her to me. Adelstan's evolution from lady's man and duty-driven soldier to devoted lover was great to watch and I loved the way everything came together in the end. Dare I hope this series might continue with the relationship between Jorden Louvet (Adelstan's second-in-command), Elspeth (Rhiannon's maid) and young Dante? It would be nice to see the three of them get their own happily ever after, and their unique relationship would no doubt be interesting, considering the time period. Great Series!

Teaching the Au Pair to Submit by Powerone

Teaching the Au Pair to Submit by Powerone

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (January 2014)

201 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Eager for new experiences and ripe for introduction to some of her forbidden desires, Jessica jumps at the chance to be an au pair to a wealthy man's son over the summer, the college professor who recommended her for the job giving her a taste of what was to come when she got to Haiti. Jessica's journey is littered with training opportunities and a variety of men are willing to help her make the most of them along the way. It was interesting to see Jessica take it all in stride, even when she got a little more than she bargained for, her naiveté meshing nicely with her growing self-awareness. This story includes some dubious consent scenarios and some socially taboo content which may be off-putting for some readers. This includes elements of sleep seduction, abuse of authority and exhibitionism. Well-written story that keeps you wondering what they have planned for Jessica next.

The End of the Line by Jim Power

The End of the Line by Jim Power

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing (October 2013)

294 pages, eBook (provided by the Author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Meeting by chance one day on the university campus where Latesha is a student, she and Peter come to know each other through her matchmaker scheme, and then when that falls apart, through Peter's persistence and increasing interest in Latesha, despite their racial differences and stark opposition from their families. This was an interesting, realistic look at an interracial relationship and the complications they might face from family, friends and the community at large. Peter was a strong, courageous and determined character that was impossible to dislike. His quiet, unassuming manner and persistence in trying win over Latesha and her unwelcoming father were inspiring to watch. Latesha was a bit of a frustrating character, unwilling to take a stand or make waves throughout much of the story, but she shined in the end. Sweet story and I liked the way Peter and Latesha's relationship not only impacted them and their families, but their community was forced to see things in a different light as well.

The Knight by Monica McCarty

The Knight by Monica McCarty

The Highland Guard Series, Book 7.5

Publisher: Monica McCarty(December 2013)

136 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

James and Jo had been in love since they were children, and the closest of friends, but James's ambition to restore what had been taken from his family, made him take for granted what he had right in front of him, and he had to face losing Jo for good, through his own folly, before he realized what it would mean to not have her. This was a sad story about shattered illusions and the stark unforgiving ways of the real world. James had a lot a growing to do as a person over the course of this story, but in the end they both came out the better for it. I was drawn to James and Jo's friend, Thom MacGowan, and his brotherly presence in this story. He seemed a tortured soul, with so much potential. I hope Thom will get the chance to have his own story told, perhaps in a novella of his own? The next book in this series is The Raider, due out next month!

The Bargain by Julia Templeton

The Bargain by Julia Templeton

Publisher: Berkley (November 2006)

292 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $9.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

King William orders Renaud, a Norman Knight, to take back possession of Braemere (a strategic fortress) and capture the Saxon rebel who has taken it, but when he arrives he finds not one but two Saxon rebels, Adelstan and his twin sister Aleysia. With her brother facing death, Aleysia makes a bargain with Renaud, exchanging the use of her body for her brother's life. I loved Aleysia and Adelstan's close relationship and her unfailing loyalty to her brother. My one complaint with Renaud was that he seemed to have unrealistic expectations of loyalty from Aleysia, given she made no secret about her motivations or her determination to save her brother, but once he got over his jealousy in that regard, he was a compassionate captor that grew into a great character willing to face even King William to protect Aleysia. I loved Aleysia's transparency and sense of duty. I am excited to read the sequel, The Conquest, about Aleysia's brother Adelstan!

Too Big to Make Babies by Nicole Snow

Too Big to Make Babies by Nicole Snow

Publisher: Ice Lips Press (May 2013)

43 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Mother has been long dead in a car accident and now that Melody has turned 19, her stepfather is starting to look at her with a man's interest, and she realizes that she feels an attraction for him as well. Sweet taboo story involving a stepfather and a mission to make the child he never got to have the first time around. Interesting play on the different and contrasting elements of their relationship, but Melody calling him Daddy all the time was a bit too taboo for me (as well as a few corresponding comments from him to her). Aside from that, I really liked the story and the idea of a relationship growing with the participants to fulfill what they need in the moment. Loved the ending!

Sleeping Seduction by Nicole Snow

Sleeping Seduction by Nicole Snow

Publisher: Ice Lips Press (July 2013)

30 pages, eBook (available for Free on Amazon)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Cassie's had a huge crush on her mother's boyfriend ever since they got together, but now that they are having relationship problems, Cassie sees her opportunity to move in on her mother's man. I'm not big on infidelity themes and I wasn't very impressed with the main character. Cassie is 18, extremely immature and just generally not a very nice person. I didn't sympathize much with Matt whose only stated relationship complaint was sexual frustration, but with things on the outs, the excuse for the breakup was probably unimportant. The self-drugged plan I thought was interesting, and if you're not bothered by the infidelity or Cassie, the sleep seduction portion of the story and/or the taboo topic of mother's boyfriend may draw some readers. This is also entitled "Sleeping Virgin Seduction" with some sellers. This is a free read on Amazon and a very short story, so if it's not your cup of tea, no big loss.

Fight For Her Heart by Nicole Snow

Fight For Her Heart by Nicole Snow

Publisher: Ice Lips Press (December 2013)

92 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After saving Rose from being attacked in an alley near his workout studio, William offers her some free self-defense lessons. An offer she accepts hoping it will help her move past the attack and the fears it caused. Great story of a chance meeting leading to something more. William was a great Dom, with just the right about of edge, his strength and discipline complimenting Rose's qualities well, as they struggled to sort out the balance between his fighting career and their relationship. The beginning of the first chapter might have worked better as a prologue, making the move into the beginning of the story a little less confusing, but once you're past that initial glimpse into the future, the story's very linear and flows well. Great short read!

Dangerous Desires by Julia Templeton

Dangerous Desires by Julia Templeton

Publisher: Julia Templeton (November 2013)

221 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 2 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

This is the story of the slow, painful reformation of a rake. Upon her father's death, Arlie is placed under the guardianship of Dominic, a man her father had met only once, and the unexpected responsibility of having to look after another's interests, pushes Dominic to rethink his way of life and his selfish ways. This story includes many different levels of infidelity, even after Dominic seems committed, and frankly I found it depressing. Arlie seemed so smart in the beginning, questioning all the right things and keeping her distance, but she ended up digging herself into a position of dependency and helplessness. Despite the happy ending, which was the one saving grace, for me, this story rode a little to close to the real problems to be faced when falling for such a womanizer. Perhaps, those with fewer qualms about infidelity type themes, would find this more enjoyable. It was well written and the characters had great depth, just a little too real for me.

Masquerade by Julia Templeton

Masquerade by Julia Templeton

Publisher: Julia Templeton (August 2012)

121 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $2.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After a stern rebuff from her mother, Brianna had tried to make the best of her unhappily arranged betrothal, but when her twin sister, Angelica, receives word that she also has been betrothed to someone she does not want, Angelica's delicate nature, her vehement resistance to the match and the prospective husband's rakish reputation cause Brianna to agree to a ruse in which she poses as her sister and tries to put an end to the match. Normally, I don't particular go for storylines involving such game playing and deception, but Nicholas (Saxford) wasn't entirely in the dark here, he knew something was up from the beginning and rather than feel frustrated and upset with the girls for the tangled mess they'd gotten themselves into, I really just couldn't wait to see how they got out of it in the end. All the characters were great, and it was a very enjoyable quick read.

Little Miss Independent by Julia Templeton

Little Miss Independent by Julia Templeton

Publisher: Julia Templeton (April 2011)

26 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Roan has returned from war with disfiguring burns to his face, neck and hand, leaving him a virtual leper among the society he used to move about in with such ease and without the fiancee that had chosen to end things when she found out about his injuries, but when he becomes reacquainted with his best friend's little sister, Addy, he finds she has grown into a woman that can see past his scars. For its short length, I felt this story was very detailed and complete, following Roan as he watches another man court Addy and he realizes and decides whether to act on his feelings for his best friend's little sister. Great read and I will be looking for more books by this author!

Kato’s Christmas Bride by Cia Leah

Kato’s Christmas Bride by Cia Leah

The Morgans’ Brides, Book 3

Publisher: Cia Leah (December 2013)

66 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Kato had his eye on the bride he wanted for a while, making sure she was okay and leaving anonymous gifts of food for Cassie and her grandmother, but fears for their safety prompted him to make himself known to them and move them to his tepee. This story was my favorite of the series. It moves along at a pretty good clip, but the sweet, innocent way Kato courted Cassie was unhurried and beautiful, despite her reluctance to acceptance his charms. There were a fair number of editorial errors in this edition and some of the dialogue was a little cheesy, but the characters were great, and I especially enjoyed the way Cassie's grandmother pushed Kato's suit, giving him a little leg up in winning the lady's affections. Great short read!

Breed's Mail Order Bride by Cia Leah

Breed's Mail Order Bride by Cia Leah

The Morgans’ Brides, Book 2

Publisher: Cia Leah (October 2013)

57 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $0.99)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

On orders from his deceased father, Breed's brother and sister-in-law arrange for a mail order bride for Breed, knowing full well he has no interest in marrying, and they manage to keep the bride's arrival a secret until the night before she arrives. But, after hearing the horrible circumstances the bride is leaving back east, Breed agrees to a marriage in name only to keep her safe, though his bride Susan hopes to convince him to make the arrangement a bit more permanent. A sweet, quick read. The storyline isn't overly complicated, it is a bit predictable, and there are some editorial errors, but this is a very short story, and it makes a nice historical romance for the length. I'm interested to read the next book in this series, Kato's Christmas Bride.