The Way Home (One - Eyed Jacks #2) by Cindy Gerard

Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

The Way Home is a brilliant story of four lives that are intertwined with each other. It is both heartwarming, heart stopping and heartbreaking. And it had everything I enjoy in a romance book.

Jess Albert was told her husband Jeff had been killed in war torn Afghanistan four years ago. Since that time she has focused on the general store she runs in Lake Kabetogama. The one thing she doesn’t want is another man who will put the military before everything else.

Tyler Brown first met Jess over a year ago. But he just can’t forget the woman that helped him out of a dangerous situation. Now he is back to see if there is a possible future with Jess. He will do anything for Jess, including go on a rescue mission to bring her Husband home.

Jeff Albert’s convoy was attacked in Pakistan. For the last few years he has been tortured and held captive. With no memory of who he is, he is dependent on the kindness of Rabia, a Muslim woman. Suffering with his debilitating injuries, he dreams of returning to the United States.

Rabia is risking both her own life and that of her father, by caring for the American soldier. Rabia is starting to fall in love Jeff. But she knows she must help him to escape as the Taliban have been searching for the escaped prisoner.

I cannot stress enough just how gripping a story this is. The author had me holding my breath both when the convoy was attacked and later when the rescue mission was underway. And at times I wondered if any of the four main characters would ever find happiness again.

I highly recommend this book to romance readers. This was my first book by Cindy Gerard. I am going to have to go back and read book one. I can’t wait to read more from this author.

5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from the NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Cattleman's Proposal by Helen Lacey

Reviewed by Desere

Every woman dreams of a rich successful good looking man to sweep her off her feet. But what if the proposal is merely to satisfy his own needs, and all you are to be is his bed-mate and mother of his children.

Sounds completely unacceptable, yet this is the situation Joley faces in the new Helen Lacey read. Mr-I-don't-believe-in-happy-ever-after- Nate knows what he wants and what he wants is Joley.

She is the perfect candidate to be the mother of his children, wife when needed and all without any romantic nonsense.

So to gain her over this his idea of thinking he uses a little blackmail, only when Joley starts to make his heart beat faster and he realizes love is something one cannot live without, it seems the game is up and he is to be the loser because Joley is on her way out the back door.

I loved this read, it was sweet, sensual and really heartwarming. I loved seeing how Nate changes from being a heartbroken man to a man that will do anything for the woman he simply cannot live without.

Through this character the author showed that everyone no matter how badly broken can be mended, all they need is the right person to drag them back from the depths of anger and pain.

Joley was a real treat to read, she knows what she wants and will do anything to get it, a true fighting spirit heroine!  But the author also let her hit a few turning point that changed her from always on the defense to rather letting her heart believe in trust.

A stunning read about two broken people healing each other through love. I recommend this read for romance fans looking for sweet and sexy heartfelt emotional characters, that will crawl deep into your hearts and remind you of just how short life is and when getting the chance to live it, grab hold with both hands.

Perfect read for an escape to romance on a lazy afternoon!

4.5 star review
" To appreciate her, he needs to lose her" 

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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

Nate Garrigan had what he thought was the love of his life. But just a few months into his happy ever after, his wife walked away from the marriage. Nate is still looking for a woman to be a wife, and to have children with. If there is chemistry between them, then that will be a bonus. But when it comes to love … forget that. Been–there–done–that-not–gonna–happen-again. He believes Joley would be the perfect woman for his future.

Joley McBride has one great love in life … flying. Like father like daughter.  After seeing her best friend get married she can’t help but think she is missing out on life. But now she has just learned that her best friend and business partner has mismanaged the business Joley’s father started. And the only way out of the nightmare is to agree to Nate’s offer. If she will stay a month on his ranch, he will return his share of the business back to her. I loved the character of Joley, she spoke her mind and was really feisty and called it like it was.

I loved the interaction between Nate and Joley. The attraction was believable. The passion was good.  I also enjoyed the setting of the Outback. Of course when you throw in some humor into a romance novel, it always makes this reader happy. So basically this book touched on all the things I love in a romance novel.

I recommend this book for romance readers who love a western theme set in the Outback.

Favorite lines:

You were running as fast as you could – and all I could think was – who is she running to? I didn’t know. I hoped … but I …” Nate inhaled and looked her directly in the eyes. “I don’t think I’ve ever been so afraid in my whole life. And then … then all of a sudden you were in my arms.”

4.5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
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Review by TashNz

5 Stars

I love a story where you're drawn in from page one and Helen Lacey's The Cattlemans Proposal did just that for me.  Joley McBride has just watched her best friend marry his wife and as bridesmaid she cant wait to leave.  To fill in her time she gets drunk and makes the biggest pass at Nate Garrigan by telling him he can have her... litterally!  During the second chapter boy did I giggle, I loved the refreshing honesty of Helen's writing.  How many times do you get to read about the heroine in the garden bed being sick from far too much wine? It made her real and I loved it.  Despite the damaged shoes, Nate rescues from both the garden bed, making an life size fool of her self AND financially  by buying out her best friends share in her barely solvent flying school. 

 Nate is clear from the start he really likes Joley.  He's almost the perfect man.  Handsome, strong, honest, hardworking, knows what he wants.  He's passionate about what he believes in and runs his cattlefarm with precision.  He knows what he wants and sets out to get it.  I loved him. Oh and dont even get me started about how he plays pool! 

A throughly captivating story.  It has everything.  Romance, drama, tension, laughter and lots of love and I have to say, my first 5 star in a while.  Absolutely loved it!

English Girl In New York by Scarlet Wilson

 

Reviewed by Desere 

Lots of people have traveled the world only to end up in a place where you fall so head over heals in love with it all , you decide to stay.

But this new life does of course not always turn out the way you pictured it, among-st the glittering lights and vibrancy of Manhattan the heroine from this read finds hiding her heartache is far less easy than she thought.

Carrie climbs the highest of heights but fails to gain a smile from her sexy neighbor Dan but when fate or rather a little bundle of joy brings her up close and personal she is in for a whole lot more than just a smile.

Only her pain and sorrow stays hidden, something that Dan intends to bring out into the open, but cracking the tough nut that is Carrie proves easier said than done.

I loved. loved, loved this story to bits. It was one of those perfect romances that just had everything falling into place! My mind would conjure up the outcome or the say this or do that and it would happen!  Yes, to some readers this might sound a little too predictable but to me it was a really nice way of picking up on just how much the author knows her audience.

A story written to show sadness can be turned into something so beautiful it will teach you a lifetime of lessons. The character of Dan was very awesome, I really liked that he is so much in touch with everyone around him, always doing good or trying to save someone. It showed him as I think everyone in life should be, for when doing good let's face it, you might not get rich from it but you will be loved and that is the best reward there is!

The character of Carrie was very, very sad. And at first I thought she was going to be one of those heroines that has so many or such strong issues that it would take forever for the hero to bring her around and into the open, but that author surprised me by letting the character flow very easy and I found her road to happiness very intriguing.

The backdrop settings were so, so, so romantic and sent my heart all into a flutter! The dialogue used by the author was one that I found delightful mixed with just a hint of playful and lots of sweet sensual heat.

I am taking away a message of connections with lots of people will come and go, it's part of life but when that one true magical connection comes that is so strong and overpowering, don't panic and run. Grab it with both hands and never ever let go!

I recommend this read for all fans of this author's brilliant work! Romance perfection!

5/5 star review
"Tired and broken, only he can save her" 

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Reviewed by Nas

ENGLISH GIRL IN NEW YORK by author Scarlet Wilson is a Harlequin Romance release for January 2014.

Carrie McKenzie finds abandoned baby on the doorstep during a snowstorm. She brings the baby in to her downstairs neighbor, cop Dan Cooper. But Dan asks for Carrie’s help in looking after the baby as he doesn’t know anything about babies.

Would Carrie be able to help Dan? She has been running away from her past and babies. So how can she help look after this tiny bundle of joy?

Dan reads her sadness but hesitate to ask her. Would Dan’s view change when he comes to know of Carrie’s past?

ENGLISH GIRL IN NEW YORK is a heart-warming story which would hook you from the first page as you flip pages to get to the end. It is an emotional romance with the baby mystery.

Read this astounding romance to find out all answers. Author Scarlet Wilson once again mesmerizes her readers with her characters emotions.  Highly recommended for all romance lovers.

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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

English Girl in New York: When New York is hit with an early blizzard it brings together two neighbors, and one abandoned baby. This book touched on so many emotions. It had me laughing out loud as many times as it had me crying buckets of tears.

Carrie McKenzie is in New York working and trying to forget her past. The one thing she can’t handle is finding an abandoned baby on the doorstep of her apartment building. Panicked, she knocks on her neighbor’s door for help.

Officer Dan Cooper is home, after breaking his wrist earlier in the day. He is shocked to see Carrie at his front door with a baby. He knows he needs to help, but he has no experience with an infant. So he talks Carrie into staying to help him with the baby.

Scarlet does an amazing job with the emotions of these two. I felt shattered when I read what brought Carrie to the United States. The characters were very well written, as well as the scenes. The plotline was believable. The ending was a little rushed for the timeline set in the story. But this is still a book worth reading.

I highly recommend this book to romance readers, just make sure you have some Kleenex too!

There were a number of really humorous exchanges between the hero and heroine. Here is one of my favorites:

‘How can all that stuff come from one tiny little thing?’ He really wanted to pinch his nose shut.

Carrie was shaking her head, too, as she made a dive for the baby wipes. ‘I have no idea, but the next one is yours.’

5/5  Stars

I received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

Sugar Babies by Mickey J. Corrigan

Reviewed by Desere 

We all know is life is hard, and yes sometimes you need to do what you would never do under normal circumstances but when you have no choice and it comes down to survival you close your eyes and get going.

But some people don't care what they do at all, they would do anything and everything to get what they want. In this read from Mickey J.Corrigan she explores the side of woman who are pretty desperate and dead set on getting the fancy cars, jewels and shopping sessions they crave so yes, not really anything to do with surviving but more of a situation of not wanting to work for it, or rather not doing the most honourable job in the world or the most ladylike for that matter.

Their solution is shocking and scandalous but also in today's modern times very true, they become sugar babies and grab themselves a sugar daddy!

Now I will be the first to agree with you that from the above I would not really want to read this book, but I have learned that no book is to be judged by it's cover or in this case by it's blurb.

The author touched on some very realistic aspects of the woman of the modern world and just how far some will go to get what they want and along the way even find time to hit all the notes us normal woman hit, like hurt, despair, sadness and also happiness without begging, showing these woman as only human and looking to find the slot they are meant to be slotted into.

Because the read had more than one main character am not going to go into much detail on each one, I will only say that from the truly brilliantly fascinating Maire to the very highly intriguing Esme and very dark Niki they each had their own set of rules and took this read from 'So out of my league 'sounding to "Wow now ain't that the truth" and all though I cringed for some parts it was not all bad language and extravagant sex scenes as you may think.

It was actually pretty classy and nicely depicted by the author and best of all she dug into the real life aspects of what sugar babies have to face when wanting to find their own happiness. It also included a fascinating little mystery just adding to the real life feeling of this read, and I for one could not stop reading to find out if the mystery would be solved or if I would be left wondering, lucky for me the author did not leave me in suspense and wrapped up the lives of these woman and the mystery very neatly.

I recommend this read for anyone looking for something new and fresh with a realistic look into the comings and goings of the sugar daddy meets sugar babies of the world.

4 star review
" No one ever said the road to happiness was all sunshine and roses"

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REVIEW BY TASHNZ - 5 Stars

WOW! Let me begin by a quote at the very end of Mickey Corrigan's full length novel:

                          "I know my wife. She will read this manuscript at once, pouring over it as you have. She will  complete it in one sitting.  Like you, she will not be able to put it down. "

This quote sums up my exact experience with Sugar Babies!  An intensely dramatic, and sizzling story about three girls with dreams and the men who help make them into who they become! 

Wow!  I could not put it down, I would have read it in one sitting if I wasn't interrupted by family arriving and I literally poured over the whole story, my curiosity begging for more as I turned each page.

A fantastic opening captures me immediately.  Someone is writing the story... we dont know who yet but it's his story of three girls who come into his life, one who's spirit he breaks, one who's neck he breaks and one who he marries.

In a month by month account we meet the three girls, Marie, Niki and Esme.  Three girls playing the game... being Sugar Babies to their Sugar Daddies.  Professional Girlfriends to the old, rich and famous.  Marie is the brain child and runs a website which caters to the Sugar Daddies needs, she runs mixers with the babies and daddies... dreaming of earning a living from the memberships.  Niki and Esme and have dreams too.  They need the $$$ to make their dreams come true and being a professional girlfriend does just that.  

Of course anything that's too good to be true usually is and slowly the dreams start to unravel, one girl goes missing early in the piece, a multitude of suspects are around but perhaps she's just run away, unable to cope with the life of a professional girlfriend and all it brings.  One is drinking much to heavily and has her dream almost in the grasp of her hands before she puts two and three together to make five.  One is stuck with her Sugar Daddy as well as her boyfriend back home who she's earning all her $$$ for but then there's the complication of falling in love with someone who may possibly have something (but surely not) to do with her friends disappearance.

As things are slowly falling apart and the gold of Coconut Island is becoming quite tarnished before I knew it I reached the thrilling conclusion which neatly wrapped up all loose ends.  All I can say is WOW what a ride!

Sugar Babies is full of Mickey Corrigan's trademark sas and in your face language and thrilling descriptions which leaves most scenes up to your imagination which I thought totally added to this story because you're only limited by your imagination and boy did mine run wild with a thrilling, fast paced, risky and dangerous lives Marie, Niki and Esme were living.  I was taken back to the good old days of stories I read in wide-eyed teenage wonder by the likes of Jackie Collins and Shirley Conran.

I give this 5 stars because I litterally couldnt put it down, I was dying to get back to it while I was out with the family and because it was a very good read, especially as it's the first full lenght novel of Mickey's that I've read.  I was left satisfied by the surprising conclusion, as well as a bit sad.  But the point is it made me feel something and that gets a star from me :)

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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

In Mickey J. Corrigan’s latest book it starts off with the following:

SUGAR DADDY’S DIARY

     Three women. I broke one’s spirit, I broke another’s neck, and I married the third.

And I have to admit this reader was hooked from that point on. This book has a little bit of everything. From broken hearts, broken spirits, and a broken neck, along with more of a -who is it -behind these girls lives that impacted them in such a way.

This book tells the story of three women, all struggling with finances and wanting to better their lives. So they try to find Sugar Daddy’s. They are willing to have sex in exchange for what they perceive as the good life. And this is where the name Sugar Babies comes from.

We have Esme Grant, abused by the man she loves but willing to sell herself to make enough money so they can buy their dream bar. Stunningly beautiful, one wonders why she puts up with her her so called boyfriend.

Maire O’Rourke is the one who came up with the name of her service called Arranged Relations. With a Sugar Daddy old enough to be her Grandfather she is getting the funding and advice she needs to start her business.

And finally we have Niki Stephanopoulos. A student with a scholarship, but it does not cover the rent. Niki feels like a failure when she is forced to ask her parents for help. So Arranged Relations just might be the answer to her problems.

I struggled a little with the way the book was first laid out. But as you read along you will understand why the author did this. I have to admit Mickey did a great job with the guessing behind this. I was convinced that the man was the first one I choose, but I have to admit I started having doubts as the book went along. And I changed my mind two times before going back to my original suspect. And I totally loved how the book ended. Well done Mickey!

5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

The Billionaire Banker by Georgia Le Carre

Reviewed by Desere 


We all need money, be it for pleasure or survival it is always needed no matter what. But the ways used to get it is not always of the straight and narrow kind. Some steal it, others kill for it, and others will even sell themselves.

In the case of the heroine Lana in this new read from author Georgia Le Carre she is there to sell herself to earn the money she so desperately needs, but will she be able to walk the line to earn victory or simply admit defeat ?

Because this read is part of a series am only going to give a short opinion as I really do not want to spoil this read for anyone.

The main characters were all very well written and each one gave their own unique bang to the read. From Lana the strong and willing to do the unthinkable to the totally deliciously captivating and very mysterious Blake.

The read offered up some truly fascinating secondary characters , which was really fantastic as too many times I have read a excellent book with good main characters and the secondary characters are too faded and it feels like they are out of touch with the rest of the cast, not the case in this read it felt as it the author really let all the characters each have a brilliant part in shaping this read.

The backdrop settings were vivid and intriguing and kept perfectly in tune with the story going on. The dialogue was emotional and awesome sexy overload, loved it!

I am taking away a message of not all is what it seems and sometimes what needs to be done must simply be done, no questions asked, just suck it up and get it over with, you might find a surprise waiting on the other side.

I look forward to the next part of this series. I recommend this book for any romance fan looking for a sensually, sexy hot read filled with a endless world of wondrous what next moments! The author kept me on the edge of my seat and I could not wait to find out more!  Le Carre is a master storyteller that will leave you in awe of her writing !

5 star review
"He has the cash she has the goods" 
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Reviewed by Shirley Buchanan

Just how different do the rich and the poor look at things? Eons different. For cold, ruthless,and unemotional rich men, women's lives are to be taken, molded and shaped to suit their whims. The only emotion ever involved in the transaction is the need to possess.

Rich, handsome and successful, Blake Law Barrington is a member of an old established banking family. Following the footsteps of his ancestors, his days are spent behind the scenes making deals that decide the fates of nations and monarchies. Cold, unemotional and ruthless, what he wants, he always gets...and he wants Lana, but only on his terms. Snatching her from the clutches of a despicable man,he pays double the price she was asking and considers her his living, breathing doll to be dressed, shaped and molded to his exact specifications. His reward...unlimited access to her body, all of her time and her complete attention to him. Only he never considered she would change him,enthrall him and soften him instead. Can he change his life's path to keep her forever or is the chains of his environment too strong to break?

Beautiful, innocent and desperate, Lana Bloom has only one thing to sell to help her dying mother: her virginity to the highest bidder. Beginning her search for an appropriate buyer by using the gossip from her work, her initial foray into the rich man's world with a potential buyer was detoured when Blake doubled the asking price. Now, she has her money and her mother has the experimental treatment she needs. But she never suspected relinquishing her virginity would begin an introduction into a sensuous, consuming and emotional life for which she had never prepared. Dreams she wants to spin, a future she wants to plan, and a heart she wants to give cannot be realized because this interlude of her life has a finite date and suddenly, she has an unexpected complication. Evil has come knocking on her door,literally forcing her to leave. Will she survive her broken heart or is her future as bleak as she imagines?

Is this truly the end of their involvement?

Or does fate have another encounter in store?

I enjoyed the way the author developed Blake from being so cold and ruthless to the beginnings of a softer emotional side. Lana also spread her wings from a frightened, naive and vulnerable girl to a woman aware of her sensuality and strength. Although with this only being book one there was no happily ever after, I felt hope that the second book would deliver the necessary ending. I certainly hope it is a happily ever after.

Well developed characters interlaced with a well thought out plot to bring this novel to life on each and every page. With vivid descriptions of the scenery, the colorful supporting characters' lives and the differences between Blake and Lana's upbringing, I felt as if I was there on the pages as well. Excellent book. All I can say is: Where is book two???!!

I would recommend this book to all romance readers.

I was given a copy by the author for an honest review.

5/5 stars       Can she dip in the rich man's world and come out unscathed?


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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

In Georgia Le Carre’s book, The Billionaire Banker: We learn just how far someone would go to save the life of a loved one. Lana decides to sell herself for the money. Blake Barrington is the one to offer Lana the money she wants.

I was drawn to the character of Lana, who would do anything to save her mother. Lana Bloom’s mother has stage four cancer and they can’t afford the special treatments offered. While she doesn’t regret her decision, she never thought she would lose her heart along the way. Lana was always thinking of others and I loved how the author wrote this character.

At first I had mixed emotions about the character of Blake Barrington. Blake comes from a very privileged family and while he comes to Lana’s rescue, from a brutal user of women, some of his comments didn’t set well with me. As the book goes on he totally grew on me. And by the time this book ends I totally want to see these two get their HEA.

I loved the writing style of Georgia Le Carre. She wrote a very sexy, intriguing book, which had this reader fully vested. Georgia also writes of a secret society with a hint of dark pleasures. While I have read books with similar themes, this one did delve deeper into the lives of the main characters and secondary characters as well.

As a reader I have never been a fan of a cliff hanger and this book has a few at the end. But I believe that this book is totally worth the experience. And I highly recommend it to readers of romance. And I can’t wait to see how these two end up. Please hurry with book 2!

One of my favorite lines:

“This is a dangerously sexy pair of white shorts, Miss Bloom,’ he teases. ‘Do you have the necessary license to operate such a weapon?’

5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

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The Redemption of Rico D'Angelo by Michelle Douglas

Reviewed by Desere 

Most people come from a difficult childhood, not everyone makes it out of there alive or living on the straight and narrow, but for some they pull up from the gutters and get our there to make a difference.

One such person is Rico, he has shown an enormous amount of courage and strength to make his way onto the path of a normal life, only his life is not half as normal as it should be.

Yes, he works hard to help others in need, saving one at a time is the name of the game, but instead of tasting sweet victory he feels empty and lifeless, like it is all worth something to the person being saved but to him just another day, another one for the rescue books.

That is until I-am-the-light-in-the-dark Neen walks into his life, she is a brilliant ray of sunshine shining through the clouds of grey, and soon he wants a piece of that warmth but to let go of his past wounds and let the sunshine in is of course easier said then done.

The character of Rico was very fascinating, I found myself wanting to dig deeper and deeper to get to the wounds lying in wake on the surface of someone that to the outside world seems to have it all. The author letting him be this empty shell of a man while still maintaining a air of perfection was a really stunning addition. It reminded me that in real life there are some of us that do the same, think about actors or any number of other famous people, even your neighbours,it seems that they have it all, or even that they have what they want but when the doors close what type of person is really standing on the inside, someone that feels content with it all or someone that is simply going through the day to day ritual of dealing with bottled up emotions of unhappiness.

The character of Neen was really great, I liked that she is the type of person that is in complete contradiction with Rico, she has her own issues but instead of letting it get to her by just going day to day she instead shines out this ray of hope and love whilst going through the tears on the inside. It showed her as I think we all need to be, yes we need to cry to let it out sometimes but we also need to remember that there are far worse things that can go happen and others out there face far dire situations. So plaster a smile on your face and instead don't dwell on the past,be thankful for what you have. Your rays of love and hope might just give someone else the courage to do the same.

The backdrop settings were very well incorporated and gave the read that 'there is light at the end of the dark' feel. The dialogue was really heart-warming and so touching that it left me with feelings of joy and true understanding of how the past can effect even the strongest of people and all-though it looks like you have made it, there will always be a part of you that will be hiding in the corner of fear.

I am taking away a message of hope can be found in the most unexpected places or in the understanding arms of others, once that comes along don't push it away. Everyone needs a little help in life, but instead of only giving help allow others to also help you, there is no shame in asking or letting someone else do what you do for others, it could be a word of comfort, a embrace of love or simply a look of understanding but in the end it will pull you up from the ground and up to the top, where you really need to be.

I highly recommend this read for all fans of sweet, heartfelt, emotional and sensual romance reads. It was simply the prefect look into realism and a reminder of what life can be.

4.5 star review
" She is the ray of hope that can bring him to life" 

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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

I really enjoyed this latest book by Michelle. She writes strong characters in this book both main and secondary. But the two main characters were the shining points. Both the hero and heroine were written with depth, both are dealing with demons of one sort or another. But they come together in a way that is believable.

Rico D’ Angelo was a dream of a hero. He has totally turned himself around from the young teenager of his past. But he still carry’s around the guilt from his teenage years. He now helps troubled and at risk youth stay on the straight and narrow and gives them a chance that they normally might not have. He finds himself attracted to Neen, but feels he is not deserving of happiness, not now not ever.

Neen Cuthbert seems to bring brightness to all those who know her. One would believe she had been loved and cherished as a child, but nothing could be further from the truth. And now Neen has a stalker terrorizing her. Somehow through it all she still manages to bring joy to those around her. I loved how the character of Neen was still was able to be so strong in the face of adversity.

I have to admit I love a surprise in a book and this one had one I did not see coming. I for some reason seem to figure them out faster than most, but was shocked when I learned who was doing the destruction. Well done Michelle!

One of many favorite lines:

All of her sweetness vanished. ‘If only everyone who decided to get a dog had half as much foresight,’ she muttered, and the grin inside him grew. ‘There should be some kind of dog-ownership test that people have to pass before they’re allowed to get a dog.’

4.5/5 stars

I received an Autographed Copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

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Reviewed by Nas

THE REDEMPTION OF RICO D’ANGELO by author Michelle Douglas is a Harlequin Romance release for October 2013.

Rico D’Angelo opens a charity café to have all his disadvantaged kids and kids living on the street work there. His plan—to train these youth for better future prospective employment opportunities.

In need of a café manager, he hires Neen Cuthbert. But Neen takes everything in her stride. She realizes that though Rico was helping these kids, he keeps a part of himself apart. He closes off his heart to any hurt by trying not to get emotionally involved. She discovers that Rico is a very sincere, courageous and an honorable person and can’t help but fall helplessly in love with him. Would Rico reciprocate her feelings? Is he ready to move forward from his past tragedy? And then they discover someone wants Neen down and out. Who could it be? Who set fire to her house? And is trying to threaten her?

THE REDEMPTION OF RICO D’ANGELO is an intriguing mix of sweet romance and is also filled with mysteries. Once you start reading, you will be hooked from the first page till you end the story. Rico is a tortured hero and Neen is one sexy, feisty heroine.  Author Michelle Douglas presents this sparkling romance. There is good, fast and witty dialogue. And the story is intensely emotional.

 Highly entertaining and well worth reading!

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Reviewed by Maria

Michelle Douglas's novels always have attractive heroines - the type of girl you'd like to be, or have as a friend.  The hero in this story has a touch of glamour as well - Rico D'Angelo, he of the sexy Italian name and proactive attitude towards helping teens in trouble.  He's a social worker and he identifies youngsters in need of help - those from unstable backgrounds, in danger of going on with a disastrous life and he tries to see to it that they get the support they need to get it together.

But some of us have come from nice homes, good homes, where there was no violence, no obvious breakdown or  neglect - yet we can still be damaged beyond what anyone could imagine.  Rico came from a loving home and nearly blew all the benefit away by venturing over to the wild side in his youth just for the heck of it.  And Neen (don't you just love that name?  Short for Janeen!), the heroine, had been raised by caring parents who ran an animal rescue shelter.  The trouble was, they seemed to care more about the animals than they did about their child.  Her need for love was so compulsive that a love affair gone south had resulted in a potentially dangerous situation.

When Rico and Neen meet, they both have baggage.  The attraction is there, always bubbling under, but in their shared project, a job initiative for troubled teens, they come to know each other and the power of love gets a chance to work it's healing magic.  This is a really charming, gentle read.  And mercifully, a really clean read too. It's not that I'm against a bit of sexual frisson (and believe me, you'll find quite a bit of that in this story, but think more frisson than sexual) but there is nothing worse, for a bored reader, than to have to wade through pages of someone elses' sexual shenanigans just to get to the action.  That's why I have so much respect for sweet romance authors.  They have to come up with something good to hold the readers attention because they can't just throw in a few pages of 'hot' to distract you while they wait for inspiration to strike.  I'm sure that Rico and Neen will set the sheets on fire just fine when the time comes.  I just don't wanna be there when that happens.  I'm one of those weird people who'd rather 'do it' than read about it.

Another great story from Michelle Douglas, who consistently turns out quality romance fiction with the constant message  that love can truly heal and give you new life and set you free from the bondage of past mistakes. 

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

Blush (Burlesque Bombshells) by Nicola Marsh

Reviewed by Nancy Crocker

On the Beach of Prince Island to celebrate the marriage of a friend, two unlikely people are about to share what is suppose to be a one night stand. But Adele Radcliff and Reid Harper cannot forget those few hours of passion they shared.

Adele Radcliff works and an accountant for Burlesque Bombshell. She has worked hard to better her life and is proud of her accomplishments. While she is good friends with Jess “Reid’s sister” and Chantal her boss. She has a dark past that no one’s knows about and she is planning on keeping it that way. Because becoming involved with a politician will exposed everything and that is something she will not risk for either of them.

Reid Harper is a politician on the fast track to becoming a State Senator. He just can’t get the red head he had amazing sex with on the beach out of his head. When he visits Adele in Vegas it is like they never separated. But he is shocked to learn she does not want a relationship with him. Even when she discovers she is pregnant.

The passion was intense and perfect in this novel. These two just could not keep their hands off each other no matter how much they tried. I loved how Jess and Jack were there to help out Reid who was relationship clueless. And the banter between Reid and Jack was really  funny to read. But the best part of this story was overcoming ones past. And accepting someone for who they had become and not what they lived through. I felt the story was totally believable and that these two were meant to be together.  I also loved how Adele was really thinking of Reid and not wanting to cost him his career.

Favorite line:

“I’d like to tell you I dragged him back to Burlesque Bombshell and had wild monkey sex with him on my desk, on the stage and in every other freaking room in the place.”

5/5 stars

I received a copy from the Author in exchange for an honest review.


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Reviewed by Desere

We all work hard to erase things in our past that we never want uncovered.  It may even be something so low and out of character, you fear if people discover the truth, they will be shocked and may even say they never really knew you, and you never see or hear from them again.

In the latest from Nicola Marsh, this is the exact fear Adele has.  Once a Burlesque Bombshell dancer, she has worked hard to make a name for herself as an honest, hard working accountant.  She keeps on track as best she can and always remains focused. 

Then she falls at the hands of temptation when do-me-now- Reid winks in her direction. But Reid is a politician who could never get involved with the likes of her, especially if he learns the awful truth of who she once was.  So what to do about their one night stand surprise?  Tell him and risk the truth of her past being revealed leaving their child hanging in the balance, or simply walk away and start over?

The character of Adele was really awesome, the kind of heroine that all woman with a terrible past can learn from. She rises from the ashes and fights her way to the top in an honest and hard-working way.  Her past was less than pretty but it was also hard-working, even if it wasn't honest and classy. Adele comes across as a loving person who would do anything for those she cares about, even stain her life in a manner that can never be fully erased, no matter how good she tries to be.

Reid was a true kiss-me-now and kiss-me-senseless kind of hero. I loved that he has to call his friends in as backup for relationship advice.  Though it showed him as a little clueless, it also made him more real since many times in real life, men are indeed clueless and need some advice. Unlike the perfect heroes we find in some reads( I know we all still love those) who somehow act both incorrectly and at the same time correctly, Reid was just plain old, real life, I-want-the-girl-and-I-want-her-any-way-I-can-get-her material. I simply adored it.  Well done Nicola!

The backdrop settings and dialogue were sexy and so passionate it left me breathless. I am taking away the message that the past is in the past, don't let it hold you back from seeking your future. If it is within your grasp then take the risk and let it all out.  You might or might not be forgiven and still seen as the person you wanted to be, but at least you shall be free from always looking over your shoulder and hoping the truth stays hidden.

I recommend this read for fans of Nicola Marsh's more risqué writing.  Unlike her Harlequin's, this read contains swear words and much hotter sex scenes than what you are use to. But if you simply adore anything this author writes, I can guarantee you will not be disappointed and I urge you to get a copy of this read right away!

5/5 stars review

"He can be the one to take away her past and show her the best future" 

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Review by TashNz

Blush is Book 2 of Nicola Marsh's Burlesque Bombshell sizzling series.  

Starting off where book 1, Brash, finished Jess sticks to her word and introduces her brother Reid to Adele, Burlesque Bombshell's accountant.  Reid is an up and coming politician with his sights set on Senate.  Adele has seen him speak before and was completely smitten... so a one-night stand? Why not!  They're on a secluded island of paradise; at a wedding and will probably never see each other again so both Adele and Reid let go for a night and they get right on down to business in a secluded  island cave.  

This is usually the point where you walk away, and remember it fondly as one of the best one-night-stands EVER and move on with your life.  Not for Adele and Reid, they cant forget each other, it's an impossible feat so Reid pursues Adele relentlessly and roadblocks are blocking every corner.  A politician heading for senate needs to keep his track record clean... seeing someone who works at Burlesque Bombshell's isn't going to achieve that.  And Adele has her own little secrets she's not ready to share.  

Reid is quite a mesmerising hero.  He knows what he wants.  He wants Adele and he knows he can kick all the roadblocks out of the way... but what will he think of the complete smashed up road block he's about to encounter???  Adele is such a hard lil worker and has achieved so much you genuinely want her to have her happy ever after and right till the end you're hoping she'll help Reid smash all walls down.

With a set up of mainly Vegas you know anything goes and it does in Blush.  It's a hot, fast paced, edge-of-your-seat rocking good read!   Blush is also a fun read, a sizzling HOT read... in terms of chilli hot level, this is high combustion level!

I loved the recurring characters from Brash and I cant wait to read Chantel and Zane's story in 2014.

Dont walk past this series if you want a bit of fun and escapism, Brash and Blush perfectly hit the spot.

4 stars

Hot Pursuit by Lynn Raye Harris

 

Reviewed by Desere 

Her dreams in shreds, all hope lost and feeling pretty sorry for herself, Evie takes the only option she has and heads back to her home-town to work in her mother's salon until she can piece together again the pieces of her once near perfect life.

But she comes face to face with her past, I-want-you-naked-and-screaming-my-name Matt. She faces him head on all nerves of steal, but the hurt that Matt inflicted on her poor teenage heart is still there, simmering on the surface and ready to explode.

However her sexual attraction to Matt is far stronger than the hatred she knows she is meant to feel after everything his actions from the past did to her life.

Add in mad gunman, her sister being kidnapped, a series of bad-guys out to get her and Matt determined to protect her even if it costs him his job with the elite military team HOT and you have Evie on high alert and so not ready to expected the unexpected.

And when she finds herself pinned under delicious ripped muscle and being protected by the once hero to her heart she realises there is no where else she would rather be. But Matt is not planning on sticking around, he will leave yet again and she will be left to pick up the pieces of her heart again, only this time the pain will be far worse. Can she convince him that no matter what she will follow where he leads even if it means he never comes back to her?

The character of Evie was really neat, she has lost it all more than once, I totally loved that she comes back stronger every time. No matter the bomb that gets thrown her way she gets back and up and starts again. I adored that the author lets her evolve into a somewhat wonder woman with each situation coming her way, going from cooking in the kitchen to bring down a bad ass crook to his knees in one swift move is not a skill just any woman can learn in less than 24 hrs.

I particularly loved that she lets Evie lose her strength every now and then, it showed that the tough image she upholds can crack and crumble and that she is very much only human, a tough cookie but still just human.

The character of completely swoon worthy Matt was absolutely perfectly written. The author showed that he is a true hero out in and out of the field, always ready to face danger and take action. This to me made him more real, as we all know most reads contain a billionaire hero who does and says most things real men would never do, but Matt was very real with his actions towards Evie during their years of friendship, to the point of him breaking her heart and right up to the point where he shows what he is really made off. Brilliantly done Lynn!

I adored that the author showed him as still being in the war zone even whilst standing in a salon, proving he is a true soldier always alert and ready. Really loved that he was the target and Evie the incoming RPG ready to blow him out of his boots, and completely shatter his defences.

Matt was also the key character for me in this read as he is what ultimately brings it together, with his life blending in with the life of Evie so swiftly it is as if they never parted ways. He easily goes from apologetic to lets get naked in just a few pages, showing him as the definitely 'hero now forget about me tomorrow' type.

This might sound like he is a very un-likeable character and that you would rather hit him at the first given opportunity, but once the author gets into his mind she shows with vivid clarity what the work out the field can do to even the strongest of men, his actions and reasoning's become very clear and let me in to the mind of a damaged and tormented man, who simply needs the right push to let it all out.

The backdrop settings for the scenes were action packed, thrilling, exciting and totally awesome! From the deserts of Iraq to the gator infested waters, it all was incorporated with perfection. The dialogue was hot and oh so very, very sexy! Going from dangerous and sexy to revealing and shocking and back to thrilling and exciting with effortless ease.

I do need to mention that if you prefer your hero's more pure that you keep the following in mind when picking up this read.

Soldiers are in a completely different frame of mind at any given stage and they do tend to use swear words a lot to express their feeling,  it comes with the adrenaline and that fact that they are in the zone at all times thinking only of the actions needed to get out and get out a alive, even if they are miles from the war their minds are still in it.

I advise that you keep in mind that this read is as close to real life as it gets and the characters, their words and actions are very realistic so the author adding in a large amount of swear words was necessary, to keep it real.

I am taking away a message of courage, risk and hope. You need to dare to believe that when you love someone and you let them go into the most dangerous of situations that they will always have you on their mind and this will make them strong and keep them fighting to make it back to your arms.

I highly recommend this read for fans of action romantic suspense military related reads, filled with enough action,suspense, mystery and romance it will leave you on the edge of your seat, and ready to go into any contact situation just to find a hero like Matt.

I am 100% certain this read will go to the top of the best sellers list. I have in my reading experience only found one other author able to offer up this kind of kick ass, action packed, keep me on the edge of my seat read,  and I am very happy to announce that Lynn Raye Harris has definitely made the team to the elite world of romantic adventure suspense authors! Kick ass writing all around!

I very much look forward to the next instalment in this series, Lynn get writing I need the rest of the team and I need them NOW!

5/5 Star review
"Putting it all on the line in the name of love, is always worth the risk" 

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Reviewed by Nancy Crocker



I have been waiting a while for this book to be released. And let me tell you it was worth the wait. This is one HOT, action packed, hold on to your seat ride. There's betrayal, murder, car chases, an explosion, a kidnapping and passion. What more could you ask for in a book.

Evangeline "Evie" Baker first met Matthew "Matt" Girard when she was only seven years old. By sixteen she is offering him her virginity, but soon her young heart is shattered by his betrayal. Though she moved on with her life, she never really got over Matt. Being from a small town she was left to hear nasty comments. So as soon as she was able, she left Rochambeau, Louisiana. She opened a small bistro in Florida. But this dream of hers soon falls apart after another betrayal. Now that Evie has lost everything she has returned to Rochambeau. Working for her Mother in her hair salon. Hoping to get back on her feet. Even though the character of Evie has been knocked down a couple of times, she is no pushover. Maybe naive and a little to trusting at times. But she proves to be one tuff woman.

Matthew "Matt" Girard is on leave from the Army pending a hearing on a mission that went terribly wrong. He was heading up one of the HOT " Hostile Operations Team" teams that was captured and two of his members were killed. Matt has returned to Rochambeau for his sisters wedding. Being back in town is bringing back memories, especially the ones of how he treated his best friend Evie. He knows what he did was wrong but he never could bring himself to call her and apologize. One look at her when they come face to face again after ten years and he knows she is stilling feeling the hurt his cruelty caused. This is one tuff, strong, hunk of man. One that this reader would love to have in her corner.

I loved the characters of Evie and Matt. Although at first I was pissed at what he had done to Evie, it also made the story believable because he was only 17 at the time. As you read Hot Pursuit you learn of their young friendship as children and how they were just perfect as friends. Evie was there for Matt when he needed someone the most at the tender age of 12. But then puberty hit these young friends. I think every reader out there can admit to those awkward times. But now that they have come back together it is like they were never really apart. When these two really get back together ... Oh my is it heart pounding good. But where will this leave them. He doesn't do long term. He is married to his job, and it is a job were he is uncertain if he will come home alive each time.

David West didn't just run off with the payroll from Evie's Restaurant. He also has been skimming money from Mob Boss Ryan Rivera to the tune of 10 million dollars. He also has kept detailed records of Ryan Rivera's dealings. Now he wants his records back and the mob wants the records too. 

Their were lots of great secondary characters here. Including Matt's team who risked court martial, when they broke the law to help their leader. 

Then there was Evie's little sister Sarah, struggling with teenage issues. And feeling abandoned by Evie, when she left home to open her restaurant in Florida. Now a night of carelessness has caused her to be kidnapped, and she fears her sister won't do anything to help.

I can't wait for the next book in the series. Lynn Raye Harris you have me hooked!

5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.


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Reviewed by TashNz

Hot Pursuit is the first in an exciting military series by Lynn Raye Harris.

A fantastic read filled with loads of excitement, lashings of passion and extremely likeable characters mixed in with a fab and heart pounding plot.

Evie Barker is back at home, her life in ruins, shampooing in her mothers beauty salon when her high school sweetheart and flirt from way back Spec Ops Captain Matt Girard turns up for a haircut.  Hiding out back Evie feels like dying when her Mom calls her out.  For Matt and Evie time stands still each remembering the last time they saw each other, 10 years ago when Matt took Evies virginity.  Matt good memories, Evie not so much. She still remembers Matt walking away to join the military.

Skip forward to an evening at the lake, Matt gets up the courage to ask Evie for a dance. He can feel her pricklyness but asks anyway, also hoping to tye in an apology for his appaling behaviour as a teenager.  BAM all the action explodes  left right and centre.  Shots are fired. Evies sister is kidnapped and Evie and Matt reaquaint themselves with each other.  Once they find out Evies sister is missing they go in search. Next second Evies ex partner turns up dead. What a day!!!

Inbetween all the non stop action Evie and Matt try to accept this is a one or two night thing, just while they're in town.  In the race against time to find Evies sister there's action and drama and feelings a plenty.  Then Matt brings in his team and hoo-rah HELLO!

I really loved the characters, I loved the drama, the action, the loving and the sense of humor that was sprinkled throughout the story. and I loved the way Lynn used memories to build the complete story.  I was hooked every second right until the beautifully written last sentence at the end.

I look forward to reading more