Shifted by Lily Cahill

Shifted by Lily Cahill

Independence Falls, Book 4

Publisher: Nameless Shameless Women LLC (December 2015)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Briar and Charlie have kept their powers a secret so far, and given the town’s reaction to the others with superpowers, they aren’t so sure they want to reveal it now, but a chance meeting in the mountains has them revealing their powers to each other. Charlie is the first shape-shifter in the group, and I thought it was a nice change from the stories so far. Briar was a strong almost irreverent character that I found really interesting—she wasn’t as concerned with social convention and more willing to break the rules. I liked the way she didn’t back down from Charlie’s surliness. Great story! Be sure to check out the Shifted Bonus Story (cute little cat tale) available as a free download on the Author’s website!

Shieldmaiden’s Revenge by Emma Prince

Shieldmaiden’s Revenge by Emma Prince

Viking Lore, Book 2

Publisher: Emma Prince (November 2015)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Ever since she was attacked in a raid, Madrena has been bent on revenge, to the point of training as a shieldmaiden so she can exact her vengeance when she is afforded the opportunity. That opportunity comes when a shipwreck washes ashore with some mysterious men. Rúnin has horrors in his own past that he’s running from, and offers to guide Madrena to the man she has been searching for in exchange for his release from the village. I loved this story! Both Madrena and Rúnin are struggling with their sense of honor throughout this story, but in different ways. They make a great team as they face the dangers of the wilderness on their journey. Great story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Desire’s Hostage! Hope to see it out soon!

Stepford Men by Powerone

Stepford Men by Powerone

Publisher: Sizzler Editions (November 2015)

174 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Eric received an offer to teach in an exclusive gated community where women rein supreme in every way imaginable, and he took the opportunity, only coming to realize fully just how much at the mercy of the women he would be. This community is jam-packed full of dominating women, and they are all eager to torture Eric sexually in whatever way they find most pleasurable. Eric finds this all terribly enjoyable, and seems to be the perfect candidate for their plans. This story includes: humiliation, public fondling, milking, and multiple partner scenarios. The story was well-written, but just not really my cup of tea. To each their own.

Wounded Hearts by Billi Tiner

Wounded Hearts by Billi Tiner

Sand Hill Romance Series, Book 3

Publisher: Tinerbooks (November 2015)

189 pages, eBook (borrowed from the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Suzanna is pleased both of her friends have found their prince charming, she just wishes that she could as well, and it is getting harder and harder to convince herself that her work as a schoolteacher will be enough to fulfill her on its own. She had almost become resigned to being a spinster, when she’s saved from a riding mishap by Hawk, a man used to getting the worst from people due to his ‘half-breed’ status. The attraction between the two is immediate and intense, but Hawk fights it hard, determined not to expose Suzanna to the harsh reality of his life. I thought Nathan from the first book was stubborn and frustrating when it came to him finally giving in to his feelings for the woman he loved, but he was nothing compared to Hawk, and Hawk's frequent coldness toward Suzanna made his almost unlikable at times. The gradual way in which he came around, as he chased criminals with Nathan, was something beautiful to watch, and I loved the ending!

Second Chance Hearts by Billi Tiner

Second Chance Hearts by Billi Tiner

Sand Hill Romance Series, Book 2

Publisher: Tinerbooks (May 2015)

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

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Rachel thought she’d met the man who would make all her dreams come true and quickly became engaged to him, but he wasn’t what he seemed and with nowhere to go and no one to turn to she ended up accepting a teaching position in the small town of Sand Hill. Chance had lost his wife years before in childbirth, and never thought to find love again, but when he sees the new schoolteacher he wonders if he may get another chance. Rachel and Chance were great together, thrown together as they were by Rachel’s circumstances, and I liked that Chance seemed determined to stand by her no matter what came their way. They face so many external threats in this story, I was beginning to feel a bit sorry for poor Chance, having to run around and save people all the time—but it was adventurous. Claire and Nathan from the first book in this series figure significantly in this story and it was nice to see them again. Good read and I look forward to reading Suzanna’s story in Wounded Hearts!

Scarred Hearts by Billi Tiner

Scarred Hearts by Billi Tiner

Sand Hill Romance Series, Book 1

Publisher: Tinerbooks (October 2014)

213 pages, eBook (borrowed from the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

With burn scars on her face, Claire has been a bit of an outcast, living on her small farm with an old former slave and an orphaned boy she’d adopted, as she tries to make a living from her healing skills and remedies. Claire had never envisioned a romance for herself until Nathan showed up full of bullet-holes, and his long recovery leads to feelings developing between them. Nathan was a hardened man who was as surprised by his feelings for Claire as anyone else, but it was interesting to see the gradual way in which his feelings softened toward both Claire and her son James, changing him into a different sort of man, though it took a long time and several extended absences to achieve it. There are some period appropriate references to God and faith, but nothing overly religious in my opinion. This also includes a secondary story involving domestic abuse, some of the violence is described in graphic detail and includes violence against children. There are a lot of rescued animals that figure in this story as well, and I loved the protectiveness they showed toward James. Great story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Second Chance Hearts!

Wrong Number, Right Guy by Elle Casey

Wrong Number, Right Guy by Elle Casey

The Bourbon Street Boys Series, Book 1

Publisher: Montlake Romance (September 2015)

353 pages, eBook (borrowed from the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

A text sent to the wrong number leads to May being in the wrong place at the wrong time and getting mixed up with the Bourbon Street Boys security business. Hilarious book with a quirky heroine who has a surprising ability to take care of herself, despite her harmless appearance. The romance between her and Ozzie is sweet and slow-moving, and the story in general is light on sex scenes, which I appreciated. Some of the secondary storylines seemed to be left hanging at the end, but I assume they will continue into the books that follow in this series. Good read, and I look forward to reading more books from this series!

A Woman of Courage by Marlow Kelly

A Woman of Courage by Marlow Kelly

Honour, Love and Courage Series, Book 3

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc. (November 2015)

55 pages, eBook (provided by the author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Fianna has never recovered from Connell divorcing her after three memorable months of marriage, so she had tried to stay away from him and his people as much as possible, but a Viking attack on her own settlement leaves her with little choice but to seek his assistance for the good of her people and in the hopes that warning him of the threat will safeguard their son, Lorcan. Now that he’s out from under his father’s thumb, Connell sees it as his opportunity to make up for past mistakes and seize his chance to make things right. This story takes place in 9th Century Ireland, and a lot of what happened to separate Connell and Fianna in the first place had to do with politics. An interesting glimpse into early Irish society. Fianna was such a strong character, moving ahead with determination even when things got tough. Made me wish Connell had shown a little more backbone when they were younger, but I guess better late than never. This is a fairly short story, and only covers a few days events.  Fun, adventurous read, with a great heroine!

Healing Montana Sky by Debra Holland

Healing Montana Sky by Debra Holland

The Montana Sky Series, Book 5

Publisher: Montlake Romance (October 2015)

364 pages, eBook (provided by the publisher for review)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Only minutes after his wife dies in childbirth, Erik rushes to town with his slightly premature newborn daughter hoping someone can do something to save her, only to have the minister introduce him to newly widowed Antonia, who is willing to act as a wet nurse to his young daughter. Despite the heavy weight of grief they both carry, an unpleasant experience in the general store spurs them into marrying, a decision neither of them was ready for, but must now accept. Great story of a couple working as a team for the sake of their children, but also struggling with the guilt of attachment to a new mate after a previous one has passed. The loss was so new to both Erik and Antonia, and it was interesting to see how they each handled it in their own way, but also helped the other in their struggle to move on. Beautiful story! I look forward to reading Caleb’s story in Mystic Montana Sky! Can’t wait!

Destiny’s Second Chance by Kate Vale

Destiny’s Second Chance by Kate Vale

Publisher: Promontory Press (October 2015)

259 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

Pregnant at sixteen, Bella had been forced into putting her baby up for adoption by disapproving parents, then out of the blue nearly twenty years later, she receives a letter from the adoptive father granting permission for her to contact her (now adult) biological child directly. This is such a complex topic, but I thought it was handled very well. All the characters involved (biological mother, child, adoptive parents) had mixed feelings about the renewed contact between Bella and her child Destiny, but the way in which they expressed them really exemplified just how complex the characters were, each having good and bad traits, but doing the best they could with the situations they were given. This story of reunion between mother and child played out alongside the romance between Bella and Gavin (the nephew of an elderly friend). Great story that really keeps you invested in the characters! This story was previously published as Bella's Destiny.

Ignited by Lily Cahill

Ignited by Lily Cahill

Independence Falls, Book 3

Publisher: Nameless Shameless Women LLC (September 2015)

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

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Ruth’s zealot father seems determined to demonize the young people in town that have developed powers, stirring the town into a frenzy likely to lead to a witch hunt, which makes it all the more worrying that she’s having more and more problems hiding her own powers. After a fondly remembered encounter at the general store with the young doctor, and another at a charity drive, Ruth decides to turn to Dr. Henry Porter when things become too much for her to handle on her own. Both Ruth and Henry have less than ideal family situations, and I liked the way they helped each other navigate the difficulties—standing firm as a team and supporting each other through the storm. Ruth’s isolation and naiveté made her a very interesting character and Henry’s calm, gentle presence was perfect paired with her. Can’t wait to see what’s in store for the Independents in the next book! Be sure to check out the Ignited Bonus Story (cute fairy-tale short) available as a free download on the Author’s website, and it was a nice setup for Briar’s story in Shifted—hope to see it out soon!

Exposed by Lily Cahill

Exposed by Lily Cahill

Independence Falls, Book 2

Publisher: Nameless Shameless Women LLC (September 2015)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

The last man a social climber in the 1950’s wants their daughter to end up with is the Russian boy, his heritage making him a virtual social outcast and a target for suspicion. But, June’s ideas about what she wants out of life and her mother’s aren’t exactly in sync. June and Ivan butt heads a lot in the beginning, but even through the fighting the attraction is undeniable. June is struggling with others expectations and her social image, while Ivan is struggling with the ability to trust or see good in the people beyond his family. This focuses so much on internal struggle and overcoming your own shortcomings. I loved the way Ivan and June challenged each other to become better people, and supported each other as they strived to do that. Great read and I look forward to reading Ruth’s story in Ignited! Be sure to check out the Exposed Bonus Story (in-law introduction dinner short) available as a free download on the Author’s website. Love the bonus stories!

Devil and the Deep by Megan Tayte

Devil and the Deep by Megan Tayte

The Ceruleans, Book 4

Publisher: Megan Tayte (September 2015)

314 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Scarlett has chosen to turn her back on the ways of  the Ceruleans, and has returned to make a life with Luke, though she finds it not quite as fulfilling as she would have hoped.  Meanwhile, questions regarding her lineage surface and begin to haunt her. Scarlett is faced with progressively hard questions in this story, none of which have easy answers. I wish she wouldn’t try to shelter Luke quite so much—when she allows it, she has such a large group of supporters/helpers looking to assist her when things become too much, and I really liked that about this story (the strange coalition of human/Cerulean people she has around her). This book closes with a massive cliffhanger! I can’t wait to read the last installment in this series (Darkly, Deeply, Beautifully) and see how it all turns out!

Ride Steady by Kristen Ashley

Ride Steady by Kristen Ashley

Chaos Series, Book 3

Publisher: Forever (June 2015)

628 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Separated by a difference in social position in high school, but crushing on each other from afar, Carissa and Joker never expected to meet up years later on the side of the road because of a flat tire—but Carissa didn’t recognize Joker, and what could have been their second chance was delayed. I absolutely loved this book. Joker started out really frustrating, but once he got on track he was so steady it was beautiful. I loved that Carissa went straight to Joker each time she messed up and confessed immediately so they could work through it together, instead of letting things fester into something much worse.  Great story of a man from an abusive background looking to build a better life than the one he had as a child and a single mother with an evil rich ex.This story included appearances by the full Dream Man crew, Lee & Hank Nightingale (Rock Chick) and Knight Sebring (Unfinished Heroes).  I look forward to reading High’s story in Walk Through Fire (due out in October) and hope to see Snapper’s story out soon!

Deacon by Kristen Ashley

Deacon by Kristen Ashley

The Unfinished Heroes Series, Book 4

Publisher: Kristen Ashley (September 2014)

216 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

A previous relationship that turned very ugly had left Deacon dead inside—that is until he wandered into a rundown Colorado resort and got a look at the woman that was running it. He fought the revival she inspired in him for years before he finally gave into it—and despite having every reason not to, Cassidy took a chance on him. I loved this story—it was the best of the series—until it got to the big blowout and the resolution to that blowout seemed really rushed and over simplified, and I just couldn’t believe Cassidy could get over what had happened so easily. That aside, I really liked Deacon and Cassidy—both really great characters and they had awesome chemistry together. This story included appearances from all the previous couples in this series and Marcus & Daisy Sloan (Rock Chick Series), with mention of Wood, Max and Nina (Colorado Mountain Series). Looking forward to the series wrapping up with Nick’s story, and hope to see it out soon!

Raid by Kristen Ashley

Raid by Kristen Ashley

The Unfinished Heroes Series, Book 3

Publisher: Kristen Ashley (February 2013)

282 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Hanna’s had her eye on Raid, the hometown golden boy, from the time she was six, but she had finally come to terms with the fact that it was a fantasy that was never going to come true and she needed to start living her life—then out of blue she had Raid’s attention and found she wasn’t sure what to do with it. Hanna is a shy, homebody type of sweet girl that looks after her grandma and makes a living making fancy afghans. I loved Hanna—I don’t know how you couldn’t. Raid had his moments where he was difficult to like, but for the most part, he was the easiest to swallow of the heroes in this series so far. Raid’s got unresolved issues from his military service which causes him to lash out unexpectedly at times, but he always crawls back to Hanna and apologizes once he’s cooled off, and I liked that about him. This story included appearances from Knight, Anya, Creed, Sylvie and Marcus Sloan (Rock Chick Series). Best of the series so far! Looking forward to Deacon’s story, though I suspect it will a good deal darker than this one was.

Creed by Kristen Ashley

Creed by Kristen Ashley

The Unfinished Heroes Series, Book 2

Publisher: Kristen Ashley (September 2012)

360 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After Sylvie’s childhood love abandoned her to a personal hell she developed a tough shell, never letting anyone get too close, but then Creed shows up all of the sudden, and the past she’s tried so hard to bury starts bubbling up.This story reminded me a lot of For You (Book 1 of the ‘Burg Series). Both stories are about childhood sweethearts tragically ripped apart to drift in emotional hell for years, only to be reunited many years later. This story was just as raw and emotionally taxing as For You, and I had to take a break partway through before I could keep going.  Creed was great, as are all of this author’s badass male leads, but I really liked Sylvie (who was much less girly than this author’s typical heroines)-though I wished she had taken her a bit further toward tomboy (what real tough girl cares about getting her nails done or wears makeup?). This story alternates between past and present and you don’t really get Creed and Sylvie’s full past until the end of the book. I liked that we got a bit of the story from Creed’s point-of-view (I wished part of Knight’s story had been that way, but oh well). There was a mention of Lee Nightingale (Rock Chick Series, Book 1) and brief appearance of Hawk Delgado (Mystery Man-Dream Man Series, Book 1) in this story.  Moving on to Raid!

Knight by Kristen Ashley

Knight by Kristen Ashley

The Unfinished Heroes Series, Book 1

Publisher: Kristen Ashley (April 2012)

285 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

When her cell phone dies at a party she is more than ready to leave, Anya is thrown into the path of Knight, an intense man who is less than happy about the party his brother is throwing in their apartment. Knight drives her home, hoping it will calm him, but seeing Anya’s ramshackle apartment building sends him into protective mode and repeated encounters solidify his need to see she’s taken care of. I had taken an extended break from this author (despite her being one of my favorites) needing to recover from reading For You (Book 1 of the ‘Burg Series—so raw and intense it still haunts me). I have been reluctant to start this book ever since I learned that the Hero was a pimp with a stable full of girls (what Kristen Ashley terms an anti-hero), but I decided to take the plunge and was surprised to find that once everything was explained and laid out before me, it wasn’t as off-putting as I’d thought it’d be. Knight was intense, EXTREMELY controlling and not all that forthcoming (especially at first), but he was great paired with Anya and I loved her quiet, almost shy personality. My one problem with this book is Anya calling Knight “Daddy”. It became especially off-putting during the sex scenes and paired with him calling her “Baby”—“Daddy’s Baby,” etc.—it just wasn’t for me. That aside, I loved this story! Knight was ultra protective and I loved that about him. Great story and I look forward to reading Creed!

The Huntsmen by Honor James

The Huntsmen by Honor James

Mischievous Fairytales Series, Book 4

Publisher: Siren Publishing (September 2014)

154 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.44)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Snow has been locked away in a tower for many years, held captive by her evil stepmother, but she finds an opportunity to escape and hopes to make her way to her uncle’s castle—along the way she comes across three huntsmen who have decided to protect Snow instead of taking her back to the Queen as they were ordered to do. This story reminded me very much of the recent movie Snow White and the Huntsman, only much more erotic and with the twist of there being a ménage scenario with multiple huntsmen. Fairytale retellings is one of my favorite genres, so I was excited to find this, but sadly I found it was just okay. The dialogue was a bit cheesy and repetitious, there were a lot of plot inconsistencies, and despite this being a story set a long time ago the dialogue was decidedly modern. If you are looking for an erotic read and not intending to take the story too seriously, this is a quick light read and is enjoyable enough to fit the bill. I will probably read the other books in the series just because I’m curious, but I wish a little more time had been spent checking for story continuity.

Bearing the Monster’s Baby by Monica Thornton

Bearing the Monster’s Baby by Monica Thornton

Publisher: Oynx Publishing (August 2015)

232 pages, eBook (available for FREE on Amazon, Aug. 27-29)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Margery is a college student with an unhealthy attraction to bad boys, drama and a lust for being treated badly, which serves to make brusque and extremely anti-social Martin the most attractive man on the planet, enhanced repeatedly by everyone she meets warning her off of him—including Martin himself. When I started reading this, I was expecting a typical shape-shifter romance—but this story was dark, gritty, weird, and disturbing—almost to the point of being comical at times. I’ve never read anything like this. Margery is borderline insane and her line of reasoning is disconcerting throughout much of the story—she has very little drive for self-preservation—but I liked that she (and the narrator) knew she was insane (or at the very least abnormal). Martin was a complex, interesting character himself, struggling with his “demons” while trying to ward off a stalker (Margery) for her own good. I loved the ending! Will Angela get her own story? Great read!

Touch of Amber by Jayne Rylon

Touch of Amber by Jayne Rylon

Hot Rods, Book 7

Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd.(April 2015)

174 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.49)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

As a brother-in-law of one of the Powertools crew and a soon-to-be sister-in-law of one of the Hot Rods crew, Gavyn and Amber are somewhat thrown together by virtue of the fact that they are the only unattached people in attendance at the joint weddings Amber has been planning for the Hot Rods crew, and the pull is only enflamed further by their instant and intense attraction to each other. Unfortunately Gavyn is still struggling with sobriety and the uncertainties regarding the direction of their relationship only test him further, while Amber is dealing with insecurities of her own. The psychological complexity of this story was so great, really delving into Gavyn’s addiction and its implications for a fledging relationship. Despite the rest of the series containing lots of ménage action, this book is strictly about a traditional relationship between Gavyn and Amber (no group extracurriculars here), and I thought that separateness from the rest of the group was part of what made this story interesting. Great story and I’m looking forward to the last book in the series, Long Time Coming!

Savage Construction by Becca Van

Savage Construction by Becca Van

A Man’s World Series, Book 1

Publisher: Siren Publishing (June 2014)

154 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.61)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

With her mother out of the picture from a young age, Gypsy followed in her father’s footsteps and learned all there was to know about construction, but a fight and stubbornness separated father and daughter for years, only to bring them back together after almost losing him to an accident at work. Now Gypsy needs take the reins while her father recovers, but the three Chadwick brothers ( Leo, Perry and Ivan) are a distraction she doesn’t need on the worksite, especially since it looks like what happened to her father wasn’t an accident and the culprit seems to be coming after her now. I liked Gypsy, but she could be REALLY frustrating, largely owing to the huge chip she has on her shoulder regarding men. I would have preferred her being a little less abrasive. The three brothers were great and I instantly liked all of them. If you have read other books by this author and enjoyed them, you’ll like this one, too. Quick read!

Song of Springhill by Cheryl McKay

Song of Springhill by Cheryl McKay

Publisher: Purple PenWorks (August 2014)

312 pages, eBook (borrowed from the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Hannah is running from an abusive fiancé and hoping to start fresh in the small mining town of Springhill, her birthplace, where she still has family. The death of her father in a mining accident has haunted Hannah all her life, but as she gets to know the people, place and life that her father lived, she gains a new outlook on his death and what he would have wanted for her in her own life. There were so many great, complex characters in this story, many of which were dealing with problems that have no easy answers. Josh was such a constant, steadying influence throughout the story, and despite having troubles of his own, I liked how he persisted in his pursuit of Hannah. I wish Bryce could have a story of his own—he was such an interesting character. This story did such a great job of showing the camaraderie between the miners and the reasons they do what they do, in such dangerous conditions. It made me think of all the service members in the military that reenlist when their tour is up, despite having family responsibilities back home. This book is labeled as “inspirational” and deals heavily with Hannah’s struggle of faith with a God that lets bad things happen to good people, but I wouldn’t say the story was overly religious (definitely not preachy). This story is inspired by three disasters that happened in the town of Springhill, Nova Scotia, in the late 1950’s. For more information on the mining disasters and the town of Springhill, be sure to check out the companion book, Spirit of Springhill.

Sparked by Lily Cahill

Sparked by Lily Cahill

Independence Falls, Book 1

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (July 2015)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

With their families involved in a generations old feud and the deep societal divide between rich and poor, Cora is the last person anyone expected to see with Clayton, but a chance meeting and a mysterious fog bring them together. I loved this story! Cora is working so hard to make an honest, respectable life for herself and her little sister, while trying to distinguish herself from her father’s and brother’s indiscretions. After a wild first year of college, Clayton is fighting to regain his family’s respect, while trying to avoid his mother’s matchmaking. The 1950’s rich/poor backdrop made a great setting for the story. Both characters were so complex and I liked that most of the conflict came from outside forces. Clayton and Cora made such a great team, bringing out the best in each other. Great read and I look forward to reading June’s story in Exposed! Hope to see it out soon! Don't forget to check out the Sparked Bonus Story (a fun Wedding short) available as a free download from the Author's Website!

Enthralled by Emma Prince

Enthralled by Emma Prince

Viking Lore, Book 1

Publisher: Emma Prince (August 2015)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Eirik’s dislike for the practice of enslaving people during a raid is well-known among his men, but when his cousin takes Laurel as his thrall then mistreats her repeatedly, he can think of no other way of saving her from her fate then to take her as a thrall himself when the opportunity presents itself. Exciting adventure set in a richly painted Viking world. While Laurel is adjusting to the Viking way of life, Eirik’s ambitious relatives are causing problems for everyone involved, and they are both struggling to come to terms with their feelings for each other. Eirik and Laurel had great chemistry together, their different yet similar internal struggles interesting to follow. I loved Eirik’s loyal friends, Alaric and Madrena!  I hope to see more of both Alaric and his sister, Madrena, the lone female warrior that went on the raid. Madrena was such an interesting character! Great story and I look forward to further Viking tales!

Captive Love by Reece Butler

Captive Love by Reece Butler

Highland Ménage Series, Book 2

Publisher: Siren Publishing (May 2015)

113 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.82)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Angus and Gillis wed their lady all proper in front of a priest, only to find out Fiona has a wealthy uncle she didn’t know about who could set aside their marriage with the snap of his fingers. As the men do their best to pass all her uncle’s tests of worthiness, Fiona is undergoing struggles of her own—being forced to learn the ladylike ways she was never taught.  Fun, adventurous read. I liked the uncle’s crafty tests that he made everyone undergo. Fiona’s grumbling over her unslaked lust, due to her uncle keeping them apart, got to be a little much at times, but I did enjoy the side story concerning her uncle’s guard captain. Looking forward to the next pair of MacDougal brothers!

Captive Bride by Reece Butler

Captive Bride by Reece Butler

Highland Ménage Series, Book 1

Publisher: Siren Publishing (April 2015)

106 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $3.82)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Having been captured by his enemy, Gillis had been occupied with trying to find a way out of the pit prison when a woman masquerading as a boy is tossed in with him. Between them they come up with a plan to escape, but not before Fiona surrenders her virginity to Gillis, and Gillis vows to protect her with his life and offers her a hand fasting, with the understanding that she will also be wife to his brother, Angus. Fair warning, this book is only half the story—Gillis, Angus and Fiona’s story continues in the book Captive Love. This series features sixteen brothers, each pair finding a lady love and their story is told over the course of two books, before moving on to the next pair of brothers. These books are short enough that I would have preferred to have the stories compiled into one book per match, but it is, what it is. I was initially a little confused with the ending (or lack thereof), until I realized it continued in the next book—maybe it was just me. Light-hearted, fun read. I loved the two brothers, Gillis and Angus, and I can’t wait to meet the rest of the MacDougal clan!

Trusting Them by Marla Monroe

Trusting Them by Marla Monroe

Publisher: Siren Publishing (February 2011)

141 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.61)

Book Rating: 3 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Driving back to their ranch in a blizzard, brothers Brock and Brady come upon an unconscious woman lying in the road and they take her home, hoping they can nurse her back to health. The storyline of this is VERY similar to Colters’ Woman by Maya Banks (Book 1 in the Colters’ Legacy Series). Jeni is on the run from an abusive ex-husband, and doesn’t want to endanger the brothers with her presence, but can’t help feeling the attraction between them. I liked the two brothers, but I thought Jeni came off as a bit too eager—given her past and how sick she was supposed to have been (who has sex on the mind, when they are that sick?)—and I thought the ending drug on a little longer than it needed to, after the action had passed. Quick read.

Gold Lust by Becca Van

Gold Lust by Becca Van

Publisher: Siren Publishing (April 2015)

123 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $4.24)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After the death of her father leaves her homeless and alone in the world, Lacy heads out in search of her only living relative—a brother she hasn’t seen in a decade, whom last she heard was trying his luck in the gold fields of Australia—but before she arrives at her destination, her coach is attacked by robbers and she’s saved in the nick of time by four men (Chet, Will, Kent and Walker), who take her back to their sheep ranch, hoping to persuade her into becoming the shared wife of all four of them. Short, light historical read, that takes place in a time and place where women were scarce. Interesting Australian version of the Wild West. All four men were very likable and Lacy had just enough backbone to suit me—she wasn’t afraid to cross society's rules and she also wasn’t afraid to try and tackle ‘men’s chores’ or defend herself when need be. Great Read!

Wild Blue Yonder by Megan Tayte

Wild Blue Yonder by Megan Tayte

The Ceruleans, Book 3

Publisher: Heaven Afire (May 2015)

312 pages, eBook (provided by Author for review)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: White Heart

Scarlett wakes up after her death and finds her new reality, as a Cerulean, a disappointment to say the least. This book begins with Scarlett largely in the dark, surrounded by secrets and people with hidden motivations, and she is deeply grieving for the life she left behind—seemingly for not. This book answers nearly all of the questions left open by the first two books, and in very interesting, creative ways—some of which I saw coming, and some of which came as a complete surprise. By the end of this book everything was falling into place and I was very satisfied with the answers given for everything. I vacillated throughout the story between being angry with Jude and feeling sorry for him, but I really hope he finds happiness somehow. Loved the ending! Eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series!

Deep by M. R. Greer

Deep by M. R. Greer

Publisher: Sudozine Media (May 2011)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Stephanie has a bad case of commitment-phobia and tends to self-sabotage any relationship that seems to be getting serious, but she meets Damien at a conference for work and in the midst of their whirlwind courtship she begins to wonder if being with him just might be worth the risk of getting hurt. This is a short story, but it didn’t feel that way when I was reading it. This was a really well-developed story with interesting characters. Stephanie gets so close, so many times to resorting to her old tricks with Damien, but he always seems to pull her back from the brink (even if it’s just the thought of him sometimes). I loved this story! Damien is a bit of a knight-in-shining-armor, which makes the story feel a little fairytale-like at times, but I liked it, and the intimacy between them was amazing! Great Read!

Off Road by M. R. Greer

Off Road by M. R. Greer

Sequel to Night Heat

Publisher: Sudozine Media (January 2014)

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

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

After her adventure with the deputy, Paige heads to Emma’s place on a mission to help her friend enjoy the fun in life and she thinks a trip to the city is in order, however their car breaks down along the way and when some cowboys drive up, Paige offers alternative payment if they’ll fix their car. Emma makes a great narrator as the reluctant participant in this crazy, slutty adventure. Paige is up for anything, anytime—milking all the fun she can out of life—while Emma needs a little more practice letting loose. I was a little disappointed that Emma didn’t end up with Paul, and kind of wished there was a third installment in which Emma returns to him after she’s had her fun. Paige may be no strings and fancy-free, but I can’t really see Emma being that way for long. Entertaining short read!

Night Heat by M. R. Greer

Night Heat by M. R. Greer

Publisher: Sudozine Media (January 2014)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Caught speeding late at night on the back roads, Paige decides to try and fulfill her fantasy of being taken advantage of by a law enforcement officer, and it turns out Dave is happy to oblige. Fun, raunchy little romp. I’m usually put off by such bold, slutty women, but Dave’s playful response softened it, and it was fun to indulge in a tale of a woman with no fear, no rules and no restrictions. The romantic in me wished for a sequel in which Dave and Paige meet again, but I think it’s better the way it is—with Paige flying free, no attachments needed (it fits her personality). Fun, short read!

A Woman of Love by Marlow Kelly

A Woman of Love by Marlow Kelly

Honour, Love and Courage Series, Book 2

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press (March 2015)

51 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $1.99)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Lady Annabel is blackmailed, by her husband of two months, into sleeping with a friend of his, in order to pay off a gambling debt, and despite her unwillingness to undertake the task, she is literally manhandled into it. Little does she know that James had no intention of sleeping with her, he just wanted to try and finagle some information out of her about her husband. James and Annabel are a great combination, Annabel being in a tight spot and James being such a tortured soul, due to the horrors of his military service. Unlike the first book in this series, which took place in the Scottish Highlands around the time of Robert the Bruce, this book takes place in Victorian London. Both novellas are stand-alone stories, but both feature strong female characters, willing to jump in and do what must be done, while teaming up with their hero to face adversity from outside sources. Fun, adventurous read!

A Woman of Honour by Marlow Kelly

A Woman of Honour by Marlow Kelly

Honour, Love and Courage Series, Book 1

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press (August 2014)

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

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality: Red Heart

Duncan wakes to find himself in a dark dungeon with a young woman who says she is dressed as a boy for her own safety and on her way to become a nun. This is a fun, short read. Most of the conflict in the story comes from outside sources—fleeing captors, braving the elements, etc.—and I loved that about this story (no angst or superfluous drama). Duncan is determined to have Isabel for his own almost from the beginning, it just takes him awhile to persuade her. Great adventure, and I liked that Isabel did her fair share of fighting, as well—she didn’t just wait for Duncan to save her. I look forward to reading the second book in this series, A Woman of Love!

Forget Me Not by Megan Tayte

Forget Me Not by Megan Tayte

The Ceruleans, Book 2

Publisher: Heaven Afire (February 2015)

338 pages, eBook (borrowed from the Kindle Owner’s Lending Library)

Book Rating: 4 Stars

Sensuality: Pink Heart

This book takes up where the other left off, with Scarlett facing inevitable death and having to leave the love of her life, Luke. While trying to make the most of the time she has left with Luke, she stubbornly refuses to let him into her problems, and I was really frustrated with her for not telling him sooner. It seemed to make things unnecessarily complicated, when it was already a bad situation. Luke was so sweet, and I really became invested in all of the characters over the course of this story: Scarlett, Luke, Cara, Jude. The telling had a bit of soap opera feel—I was never sure what was going to get thrown their way next (reminded me a bit of Ann Grech’s stories). I’m curious to see where it goes from here, and I’m hoping that Scarlett can somehow find a way back to Luke, despite Jude’s claim that it isn’t possible. Looking forward to the next book, Wild Blue Yonder, and hope to see it out soon!