Book reviews from BeverlyRomance

Take Me There

by P. F. Kozak

Unparalleled Erotica! No other erotic romance writer can seem to equal or be as unique as P. F. Kozak. In her debut "Sins and Secrets" this talented writer took the reader on an erotic adventure above and beyond expectations by allowing the reader to choose which sensual path they would like the characters to take....and in "Take Me There" this writer successfully does it again! The main character in this story, Journalist Presley Knowles discovers the answer to the question if a woman could love two men, but as always, pushing the erotic envelope further, P. F. Kozak adds a touch of paranormal....can a woman love a man and a ghost? Vadim, a lover from another life Presley lived centuries ago enters her life after a fatal near-death accident. When Presley wakes up in the hospital after having a strange sensual dream, it is sexy Dr. Daniel Hanson she sees standing by her bed, patiently waiting for her to quickly get well so that he can have from Presley what he witnessed as he watched her dream while caring for her. As Daniel and Presley's wild sexual relationship begins, suddenly Vadim enters Presley's life again, as well as Presley and Daniel's bed by bringing another surprise... another woman, Ezra, who happens to be Presley's sister from her other life, which Daniel just happens to be sexually drawn to as well. Will this threesome, suddenly turned foursome's love, love that is both physical and emotional, survive from the past to the present and beyond to the future? This author just keeps getting better and better with each book. "Take Me There" is so much more than beautifully written sexually explicit love scenes. Once again, like this author's other books, it has a storyline with quality characters that keep the reader glued to the pages. If you are a fan of a well-written erotic romance, don't miss this or any other book written by P. F. Kozak! This reviewer is patiently waiting for the November 2008 release of "Do It To Me." - Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

The Midnight Man

by Charlotte Mede

Sensually, Dark, Dangerous and Mysterious Victorian Romance The beautiful, wealthy widow, and talented painter, Helena, Lady Hartford is in serious danger. She being sought after by a devious relative of her dead husband, the powerful Bishop of Sissinghurst, who believes her talent for painting and independent lifestyle since his cousin’s death, is out of control in the strict Victorian Era and that she is suffering from hysteria and must be admitted to Bedlam as soon as possible. His true plot to admit her really has more to do with the fact of taking control of her estate and money. Lord Hartford was in debt and the marriage to Helena was arranged for monetary gains and the estate of Lord Hartford is under complete control of Helena after Lord Hartford’s death. The only way the Bishop can get control of the money is to declare Helena insane and have her committed so he can oversee her estate. Helena lived a life controlled first by her father, a man of trade who wanted his daughter to marry a title, and then an overbearing husband, who worked daily to stifle Helena. She is finally beginning to live a freestyle life, and then discovers she must now fight and run to save herself from the Bishop and admittance to Bedlam. One night while she is at a party to escape her predicament and is in a fog of opium, she meets the handsome Ramsey, Lord Beckwith, and is drawn to him. But little does she realize he has vengeance plans of his own. Ramsey is surprisingly taken in by the beauty and talent of Helena. As a part of an underground group that believes in the new Darwinism of the times, he plans on using Helena’s talent to convince her to travel and draw many of Darwin’s findings while working out his own plan. This only adds more fuel to the Bishop’s plan for wanting Helena committed. As Helena becomes a pawn to both, Ramsey wants to only be concerned with his own cause, but finds more and more that he is drawn physically and emotionally to the beautiful and talented Helena. Soon Helena is on the run from Bishop Sissinghurt and his cohort Deacon Mosley. At every turn, it seems Ramsey is there to save her, but can she trust him? She runs from Ramsey with mistrust, but then when with him, finds she cannot control the sexual allure and safety of being in his arms and bed. Ramsey discovers that Helena is a woman he simply cannot get out of his mind and heart. He is drawn to her beauty, intellect, and talent. Can he use her as planned or become her savior? Helena begins to question if she can trust anyone, including her long time artist friend Horace. Helena and Ramsey soon become more and more mesmerized with each other and their sensuality and passionate fog deepens as the danger grows. Will Helena discover who her loyal friends and real enemies are, while possibly finding true love before it is too late and she ends up in Bedlam? In Charlotte Mede’s talented style, The Midnight Man is a sensually erotic romance that is complex, drawing the reader into mysterious action immediately. This is a well-written Victorian Era erotic mystery romance that will keep readers at the edge of their seats with characters of depth that are complex and alluring. A real keeper that will be read and re-read, Ms. Mede has shown that her second book is just as exciting as her first, “Explosive.” I am looking forward to another exciting sensually written historical from this talented author. - Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

A Notorious Proposition

by Adele Ashworth

Notoriously Sensual! When it comes to reading an Adele Ashworth romance, readers can expect an excellent story, in-depth characters, and a sensuality that oozes from the pages, keeping a reader riveted to the book. It is no different with this new title “A Notorious Proposition.” Revisiting a place called Winter Garden from a previous book of that name back in 2000, we find two people who left an intense emotional and physical love behind two years ago due to undercover government intrigue, mystery of missing Martello diamonds and amnesia. The handsome Garrett Burke, who is the mysterious Winter Garden’s Marquis of Rye, left the beautiful Lady Ivy Wentworth in his warm bed after an intense night of love to finish this mysterious business with the intentions of returning and asking for her hand in marriage. But then it seemed everything went wrong and to make matters worse, due to an injury he received that evening while trying to retrieve the famous Martello diamonds, he is left with no knowledge about what actually happened that night and the aspects of his relationship with Ivy. He is so confused that he actually suspects she may actually be involved in the nefarious plot; especially because her brother is missing since that fateful night. Now it is two years later and the diamonds and other individuals besides Ivy’s brother, involved in the original mystery are missing. Everyone seems suspect, but most of all, it is Ivy that is the one deeply hurt at Garrett’s treatment of her, past and present, and his suspicion toward her. Her reputation is at stake, together with her fear for her brother’s life and his possible involvement in the original theft and current mystery. Garrett and Ivy find themselves thrown together at Winter Garden, at the invitation of the Marquis of Rye, who Ivy does not know is actually Garrett, while walking a fine line of suspicion, love and hate. Will Garrett find the diamonds and who is responsible for their theft and his injury, while at the same time will his memory return so he can remember just how important Ivy is to him? Will Ivy help Garrett by using her famous talent as a seer, to find her brother and somehow rediscover the diamonds and the love she once had for Garrett, while fighting the continuous sensual desire she discovers she cannot put behind her since that fateful night two years ago when Garrett left her in his bed? Adele Ashworth is a superb talent that seems to get better with each book that is a definite keeper. Crime, mystery, and sensuality combine with excellent storylines and interesting characters to keep readers patiently awaiting a next release. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Texas Loving

by Leigh Greenwood

Saddle Up Loving Cowboys and Cowgirls! The Maxwell Family is one of the most famous ranch families in the romance genre, with several books in a western series that are interesting, sexy and well-written, which is unique in a present era of vampire hunters and Matrix-type futuristic romances appearing to be so popular. Once again Mr. Greenwood allows his readers to enjoy the American West and provides handsome rugged men and strong, beautiful and willful women that were historically important in building America. In Texas Loving Mr. Greenwood brings aristocratic England together with the American West for a rip roaring story that touches the heart. The youngest of the Maxwell children, Eden is one of those tough, strong and willful Texas beauties. She has never seen anything past the Broken Circle Ranch in Texas until she is part of the family that returns for a visit to England with her British grandfather. When Eden arrives in England, she is in awe and realizes that she has so much freedom in comparison to the strict society rules of the aristocracy. Upon the families arrival trouble begins almost immediately as old wounds are opened by the illegitimate side of the family arriving for a visit. Eden finds the dynamics interesting to watch, yet her feelings and heart begin to become involved, making her uncomfortable as she watches her cousins Patrick and Edward Davenport interact with their family and hers. It is the heir to the Davenport title, Edward that Eden seems to come in to more contact with during her visit. She sees this handsome aristocrat as the only hardworking family member, yet he seems to be looked down upon by all, even his current fiancé, because of his hard work on the estate, which is confusing to Eden who thinks living a life of leisure is a waste. As Eden and Edward begin to experience a spark of deep friendship and desire, a secret is revealed that topples Edward’s world and breaks Eden’s heart, as she is the one that reveals the secret. Upon her return to Texas, she tries to put Edward out of her mind, but when he suddenly shows up at her brother’s ranch as a ranch hand, new challenges are produced for both of them; especially when a big horse race is coming up and Edward wants to race his horse against Eden’s. While Edward still harbors a bit of resentment for Eden because he feels she destroyed his life, he still is drawn to this wild and free beauty who knows more about horses and life than he does. As he learns Texas, he begins to learn about Eden even more and the desire leads them into a passion as hot as the State of Texas. But when Eden’s life is in danger and other strange happenings begin to happen on the other Maxwell ranches, it brings Edward and Eden even closer. Edward wants nothing more than to win this horse race, but will he come to realize that he may want Eden more? The blend of the two countries, together with passion under the Texas heat and stars makes this an extremely interesting read for those romance readers who enjoy an excellent western romance. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Private Arrangements

by Sherry Thomas

It is extremely difficult for this reviewer and avid romance reader and seller, who loves to support new authors, to say that Private Arrangements is simply not a debut as good as many other new authors. Sherry Thomas has the talent, no doubt about it, but the book as a whole was disappointing and very depressing. I had read the first nine chapters and wanted to toss the book aside and not pick it up again because I was so confused by the story that has chapters jumping back and forth between the present time period and the previous 15 years too quickly, which caused the characters and their connections to be confusing to the reader. So I woke up the following morning and started once again from the beginning, deciding to give this author and her book another chance; especially because top-notch authors like Mary Balogh and Jane Feather had comments on the front and back covers. These authors are masters at romance, so I thought maybe there is something I am missing here and I had a bad night or was too tired and missing something. And I was missing something: No romance. No sensuality. No passion or desire. No real deep love. Just two characters Camden Saybrook and Gigi Rowland, who are extremely flawed, too bull-headed early on in their young lives and relationship to realize this, and after such manipulation early on in the relationship; especially by Gigi, Gigi and Camden simply do not seem to have the deep down goodness to admit their wrongs and communicate properly with each other. That is what is in most romances with this type of theme, but there is no sense of that here. The characters are just too flawed and want to hurt rather than love and forget. Thus, Camden and Gigi create years and years of problems and suffering that go unsolved. When they are thrown back together again because Gigi wants a divorce to remarry; an artist friend, Freddie, who is obviously not a good match for her, Camden and Gigi harbor such deep dislike for each other and both want hurtful revenge and continue to make the same mistakes at hurting each other even more and exposing old wounds that have grown even deeper. It didn't make sense to this reader that if these two individuals loved one another, they would have worked out the problems from the beginning, not have lived so long apart, and then finally decide to see each other when one finally decides to divorce and remarry again for all the wrong reasons. And when they get together again, it is not to work harder at making amends, but to hurt each other even more. The whole idea of Camden returning to Gigi to get an heir and then divorce her is horrible, and the times they come together for sex it is not in love, but borders on rape; sex used as a weapon to hurt, not heal and create love. Even the secondary characters, Gigi's mother and friends are weak and sort of ditzy people. Again, the reader keeps reading, I believe, to try to see if anyone develops some sense at all by the end of this story. This type of storyline has played out before in romances, with characters that made mistakes and walked away from their marriages early in the beginning, but the reader felt a deep love from the characters and there were usually circumstances that created the problems, not the characters themselves creating such planned, mean-spirited hurt to one another. But most of all there was remorse and forgiveness and an attempt to fight for their love, seduce, woo and love - not hurt more. At the end when the truth of the major mess ups are finally exposed, it seems so odd that suddenly Camden only wants what is best for Gigi and agrees to the divorce and then Gigi realizes she must have Camden and she goes to him and they are suddenly passionately in love and it is the end and they are to finally be together. I did not get the feeling that this would last and it would be "Happily Ever After." This book was too much like REAL life, not a romance novel. If I wanted to read this type of storyline I could read stories about extended family, friends and neighbors in real life that messed up their lives. I hope "Delicious" Ms. Thomas's next book will improve in character depth because she is an excellent writing talent. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

The Seduction of an Unknown Lady

by Samantha James

After the first book in the MacBride Family Trilogy, “The Secret Passion of Simon Blackwell,” the MacBride family is back in England after the tumultuous ending in India, with two wounded and brooding brothers Alec, the Duke of Glendon and his brother Aidan, but also a happy ending with Annabel MacBride and Simon Blackwell’s marriage. “The Seduction of An Unknown Lady” highlights Aidan, who is continuing to struggle with his physical and emotional injuries that took place in that final battle. Home in England as a hero, he feels anything but a hero, and spends many a long night brooding, until one night on a dark street he meets and rescues an Unknown Lady. Immediately something draws the handsome Aidan to the lonely and beautiful, Fionna Hawkes. Aidan has his physical and emotional struggles to deal with after the family’s return, being partially blind in one eye, but also feeling deep guilt over the loss of numerous comrades in a battle in which he blames himself for. Fionna is a local bookseller and writer who secretly uses the pen name, F. J. Sparrow so she can assist her ill mother and provide the best of care for her. Friendship soon develops into passion and a growing love as Aidan spends more and more time with Fionna. Fionna is frightened by Aidan’s seduction and the intense passion she feels for him, while at the same time she understands the inner struggles he deals with and feels the need to help him, but at the same time does not trust enough to share her own burdens of her mother’s illness and secret writing with Aidan. When Aidan discovers Fionna needs his protection from an unknown follower, he realizes that the beauty he has been seducing and is falling in love with has many unknown secrets. Aidan feels he must do whatever he can to help this beauty and what haunts her deep inside. Mysteries are revealed as love and passion bloom and soon Aidan learns that by revealing the unknown Fionna and the demons that haunt her dark world, she has helped him overcome his demons. Eventually their friendship and love deepens into more than a simple seduction of an unknown lady. Every book Samantha James writes is a delight. Her writing style is captivating with characters that have depth and struggles to overcome. Her sensual scenes between the love interests are well-written while at the same time discovering true love and happiness are what really matter. It will be interesting to read Alec’s story next, as the MacBride Family is one that is endearing and one which the reader can become absorbed in and enjoy. Ms. James has written another sensual romance with mystery and suspense that are again, like this story, difficult to put down. ~Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Never Trust a Scoundrel

by Gayle Callen

The beautiful Miss Grace Banbury has not only been the beauty, but the brains in her highly dysfunctional family of gamblers and has always found a way to get her brother and mother out of their waging messes. But this time, her mother has done the ultimate insult and has not only gambled away the family's homes, property, and a priceless violin, which is one of Grace's most important possessions, but her along with it! The handsome Daniel Throckmorten has always turned everything he touches into gold and has a knack for recognizing a good gamble and business deal that will pay off well, but he discovers the shock at winning the beautiful Grace, especially when he is in the market for a new mistress. Upon seeing her beauty and intelligence, he is taken with her and his feelings begin to somewhat soften. How can he keep up his image of being a scoundrel and rake that has kept his image of success within society in business and bed going if he turns soft on Miss Banbury and allows her to win the wager? Suddenly Grace finds herself in a position that she never thought she would be in: a wager with a scoundrel no less! If Daniel cannot seduce her into his bed within two weeks she will lose all, but most of all she wants the priceless violin so that she can sell it and save her brother. And this is indeed a sacrifice, because Grace loves music and that violin, but she loves her brother Edward more and wants to save him before he becomes as bad as her mother, has no property and will never find a wife. As Daniel begins his seduction of Grace he begins to see her beauty is more than skin deep. And as Grace feels her passion weakening and giving into Daniel, she realizes that it is the violin and music that is between them more than the wager, and that this scoundrel is really a gentleman. Desire blazes and mysteries are uncovered regarding Daniel and Grace's family. When Grace discovers Daniel is training Edward in how to choose good business deals that pay off other than gambling, she soon begins to realize that maybe a scoundrel can be trusted, but most of all both Grace and Daniel realize that all along the wager is not as important as family and love. Gayle Callen in her usually sensual style has written another romance that is about a rake, rogue and/or scoundrel that romance readers love to hate and end up loving even more! Once again Ms. Callen has written another book that readers will absorb and lose all track of time. She cannot write fast enough! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Perfect Betrayal

by Frank R. Stockton, Ruby Storm

The Civil War is the backdrop of this sensually passionate erotic story about two lovers, lost in the confusion of a long and dreadful war as well as their deep sensual love for one another. The most confused is the beautiful spitfire Alli Nordstrom, who has felt betrayed for years when her lover Jackson McCay left for the war as a traitor Confederate Soldier, not a Union Soldier as her brothers and many of the families in Maryland. Alli lost more than Jackson's love, alone without her parents and two brothers who died in a Confederate prison. The betrayal she feels for Jackson runs deep and feels as perfect as her love and desire for him. She realizes this even more when one night, close to the end of the war, Jackson returns. Although so much is different and left in shambles from the war, the passion and desire they once shared flares immediately, together with Alli's feelings of betrayal for Jackson. Even though she finds his betrayal so hard to forget, once again they spend long days and nights of physical, wildly sexual love and a stronger emotional love that begins to soften Alli toward Jackson once more. But just as their lives are returning to normal Jackson receives a message that he dreads most of all. He must leave Alli again. As a true patriot to his country and an oath he has given, Jackson leaves brokenhearted, knowing that there is the possibility that Alli may not forgive him next time if he returns from this last dangerous assignment. The ending is tense and one that leaves the reader at the edge of their seat. Having read many Ellora's Cave Romanticas, this story is definitely one of the best written by this author and released by the publisher. A story that is as absorbing and entertaining as the passion and sensuality of the characters, and one where the well-written erotic sex scenes do not overcome the story, this is a book difficult to put down. This reader/reviewer read it in one morning! Perfect Betrayal is a definite must read to add to the list of historical erotic romance fans who enjoy a well-written sensual historical! One of the Best!

Where the Heart Leads

by Stephanie Laurens

Where the Heart Leads is considered the 15th book in the Cynsters Family Saga, and although the Casebook of Barnaby Adair is mentioned on the cover, that is the true nature of the book. Cynster fans, looking for a story like the earlier passionate and heart stopping handsome Cynster males sensually pursuing strong beautiful ladies, made-to-be Cynster brides, may be left just a bit disappointed. That is not to say that Stephanie Lauren's most recent book is not extremely well-written with characters of depth, it is just that after a while the whole Cynster mystique gets diluted so much down the line of cousins and siblings of Cynster relations that the reader now has to expect something different; and this story is different, not close to the original fabulous Cynster novels that were written early on. Those will always remain favorites for romance fans and collectors. No one knows the Regency Period and 19th century more than Stephanie Laurens; especially when she wrote a few Cynster novels with storylines about the rare and extremely interesting horse racing world that took place during the period. Now she entertains and educates readers further with her knowledge of what it is like behind the glittering ballrooms, gentlemen clubs, shining ladies in silks and rogues outfitted in Hessians and superfine. During this period there were those that suffered while others lived lives of leisure. In this book we see how the other side lives. Portia Cynster started a Foundling School for Orphans that aids poor orphans after the death of their only living relative, which was the focus of another Cynster novel and mentioned in some of the others. Now after marrying Simon and running a house and having children of her own, the responsibility of the school has been turned over to Penelope, Portia's sister. A beauty, but considered a bluestocking and a bit overwhelming to many gentlemen of the ton, Penelope has been dedicated to her work and has never thought of marrying, believing she would never be able to find the type of true love other Cynster women have found, especially in her unique position of running the school and having a rare intelligence and deep calling for social justice. Her feelings about love, passion, and even marriage begin to change a bit after four boys due to arrive at the school show up missing and she considers asking the third son of a nobleman, Barnaby Adair, well-known for solving mysterious cases of the ton, to consider helping her find these boys. As soon as she knocks on his door late one night she realizes that she is drawn to the handsome and intelligent Barnaby, and is more thrilled when she realizes he understands, respects and is not judgmental about her school, intelligence and involvement in social causes. What a coincidence that the stunning and intelligent Penelope shows up at Barnaby's door just when he is sitting alone in his parlor nursing a brandy and deciding what to do with his life that was once exciting and now seems to hold no appeal anymore. To him it is love at first sight, but he knows he must move carefully and allow Penelope to realize they were meant to be together so that he doesn't lose her and his one chance at finally finding a woman that is his equal and worthy to be his wife. Barnaby obtains the aid of his friend Basil Stokes, of Scotland Yard, and together with an East End woman, Griselda Martin, who worked her way up from the poor East End to becoming a successful tradeswoman as a milliner, the two couples work together to solve the case of the missing boys and the discovery of a burglary school that is snatching them away as soon as they are orphaned before they can make it to the school. The danger intensifies as murders begin to take place before the children can be orphaned and are snatched, while at the same time love and passion are blooming for the two couples. This story is a delightful change for Ms. Laurens and hopefully the fans of the Cynster books will realize that there are just so many Cynsters and the originals and their storylines would lose being unique, if every story was similar. This book, like "An Unwilling Conquest," brings out the unique talent and unlimited knowledge base of Stephanie Laurens that expands way beyond the Cynster family. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Perfect Betrayal

by Frank R. Stockton, Ruby Storm

The Civil War is the backdrop of this sensually passionate erotic story about two lovers, lost in the confusion of a long and dreadful war as well as their deep sensual love for one another. The most confused is the beautiful spitfire Alli Nordstrom, who has felt betrayed for years when her lover Jackson McCay left for the war as a traitor Confederate Soldier, not a Union Soldier as her brothers and many of the families in Maryland. Alli lost more than Jackson's love, alone without her parents and two brothers who died in a Confederate prison. The betrayal she feels for Jackson runs deep and feels as perfect as her love and desire for him. She realizes this even more when one night, close to the end of the war, Jackson returns. Although so much is different and left in shambles from the war, the passion and desire they once shared flares immediately, together with Alli's feelings of betrayal for Jackson. Even though she finds his betrayal so hard to forget, once again they spend long days and nights of physical, wildly sexual love and a stronger emotional love that begins to soften Alli toward Jackson once more. But just as their lives are returning to normal Jackson receives a message that he dreads most of all. He must leave Alli again. As a true patriot to his country and an oath he has given, Jackson leaves brokenhearted, knowing that there is the possibility that Alli may not forgive him next time if he returns from this last dangerous assignment. The ending is tense and one that leaves the reader at the edge of their seat. Having read many Ellora's Cave Romanticas, this story is definitely one of the best written by this author and released by the publisher. A story that is as absorbing and entertaining as the passion and sensuality of the characters, and one where the well-written erotic sex scenes do not overcome the story, this is a book difficult to put down. This reader/reviewer read it in one morning! Perfect Betrayal is a definite must read to add to the list of historical erotic romance fans who enjoy a well-written sensual historical! One of the Best! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Bedding the Baron

by Deborah Raleigh

Ms. Raleigh's first few books were extremely sensual and enjoyable. This reviewer always felt that her talent was held back by the publisher with a limited number of pages to the stories leaving readers with abrupt endings wanting more, but overall, due to the talent of the writer, every story was still a joy to read. In the first of this new trilogy, Ms. Raleigh does not disappoint from the beginning and all the way to the end. She only gets better, and this particular romance trilogy appears to be one of those where readers will patiently be waiting for the next two books. Mr. Drummond has had the pleasure of many years of tutoring and caring for three important, handsome and educated young men left bastards by important noblemen in London. He has been the one proud and stable force in the lives of these three gentlemen. Upon Mr. Drummond’s death, each discovers they have questions about the large amount of money left them and the unique stipulations regarding the wills. They are left wondering not only about their true fathers, but the dear Mr. Drummond who took them in and molded them into the fine gentlemen they have become. As the three handsome noble bastards get over the shock and loss, Ian Breckford and Raoul Charlebois are delighted with the funds left them and feel no need at the time to consider their fathers who deserted them, only to mourn the loss of their dear friend and continue to enjoy their rogue lives in London. But Fredrick Smith decides he definitely needs answers, not just about his father, but about Mr. Drummond as well. He has spent years of unique, strange, and well-hidden visits with his true father, visits that left him more angry than secure. He became an extremely successful businessman in his own right, without the help of his father and certainly feels no joy for the funds now left him as Ian and Raoul do. He has always wanted to confront his father for answers, not money. Now that Mr. Drummond is gone, and he is successful in his own right, he takes off on a quest to obtain these answers, and discovers much more than expected while staying at a local inn near his father’s estate, run by the charming, beautiful, but shabbily dressed widow, Mrs. Portia Walker. Both Fredrick and Portia are lost and wandering souls with broken hearts and deep hidden miseries and secrets and are immediately drawn to each other. Soon desire and passion bloom and both realize that until their unsuspecting meeting, they were extremely lost and troubled with their past, but have begun finding a special joy and sensuality together in the present. Long hidden secrets that were never to be discovered, soon surface. Will the answers that Fredrick at long last found, threaten the true love and passion that he and Portia held back for years or will it grow with Fredrick’s shocking discoveries? The storyline is extremely interesting and the characters have a depth that leaves the reader enthralled with secrets, answers, desires and the eventual outcome of all involved. Bedding the Baron is enjoyable from front to back, leaving the reader absorbed with a story very difficult to put down. I certainly am looking forward to the next two books! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

His and Hers

by Dawn Calvert

Dawn Calvert mesmerized romance fans with her debut romance Hero Worship, an extremely unique storyline of time-travel back to the Regency era. If you are a true romance fan, her style is thrilling and many a romance lovers dream. How many times has a reader been so absorbed in a story they wish they could be in it? Ms. Calvert transports a contemporary character from modern times in a unique time-travel storyline, but then literally transforms them into a current story being written by a romance author! The characters from the previous book tuck away the "magic stone" (that allows time-travel and wishes to come true) in a local Starbucks, hoping true love as they have found, finds another. At the Starbucks walks in Jane Ellingson. As she sits in her favorite local coffee shop contemplating all that has been going wrong in her life she happens upon the stone tucked on the window ledge with a note saying "The sport of wishing. A guide for those so disposed." She figures what has she got to lose with a wishing stone, no matter how strange the idea seems? After all, how could her life get anymore awful than it seems at this time? She has messed up big time in her job as chief assistant to a senator when she releases a scandalous story to the press by accident, her live-in boyfriend freaks after she makes a bigger mistake by announcing "why don't we get married?, and she adds frosting to her disaster cake by spilling red wine on her best friend's wedding dress at the final fitting party, and no matter how she attempts to make it better, she is told to "just go away." So what could be better than going away by rubbing the wishing stone? Little does Jane realize that she would end up in the Victorian era in a Victorian romance novel! First it's the darn corset, long dresses, horses, no modern conveniences, and strict society rules, but then she meets the knock out handsome Curran Dempsey and suddenly all of the things she missed in modern times don't seem so difficult to miss (even though her corset is still too tight), but then she comes to realize she is not only controlled by the Victorian era itself, but the whims of the author writing the novel Jane is in! As Jane becomes involved in her new life and then takes on the other characters and eventually the author herself, this story will not only leave you smiling, but also laughing out loud, as well as mumbling in frustration at both the characters and the author of Jane's story -- not Ms. Calvert :) Will Jane stay in the Victorian era story and win the handsome hero Curran Dempsey or be wiped out of the story with the mere slash of a pen or torn out page that is put in the trash bin? This book is just too much fun to give too much away! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Laird of the Mist

by Paula Quinn

Paula Quinn breaks away from her Risande Family trilogy with this masterfully written 17th Century Scottish Historical Romance. It is a time in Scotland where the name of MacGregor has been declared under proscription; wiped out from the name of all Scottish clans. The strong and handsome highlander Callum MacGregor and his darling of a sister Maggie grow up as small children surrounded in evil as they are imprisoned and shackled deep in the Campbell's dungeon, after their family was killed, their lands taken away, and their very name wiped away as a Scottish clan. Callum never gives up and his hatred grows as he continues to grow up in the dungeon. One day he finally escapes with Maggie by killing his captors and becoming known as the evil MacGregor. With the help of other sympathetic clans he refuses to drop away and hide as anything but a MacGregor and instead becomes their laird. But the evil Duke of Argyll has made it his life's work to destroy all MacGregors, especially Callum and Maggie. As Argyll rides across the Scottish lands killing any and doing evil to those who harbor or claim to have helped the MacGregors, his beautiful niece Kate Campbell and her brother Robert, unbeknownst to them, live on Callum's previous lands, have been told that the MacGregors are considered evil, but do not understand the full effects until one day the large handsome Callum kidnaps her in order to use her as a lure to bring Argyll to him so he can finally kill him and earn his final vengeance. As Kate lives amongst Callum, Maggie and the MacGregor people, she not only falls in love with the highlands and its people, but deeply for Callum. Maggie and many other MacGregors want peace as well and fear for their handsome and strong leader and his continued thirst for vengeance. Can the deep, passionate and sensual love Kate feels for Callum, as well as the love of his sister Maggie and his people, make him realize the true meaning of life and happiness and overcome this severe vengeance and bloodshed? As Kate becomes possessed by Callum, the reader will become possessed by the story as well as the main and secondary characters, unable to put the book down. Laird of the Mist is a beautiful love story that will touch the deepest parts of your heart. It is masterfully written and will make you laugh and cry, with an ending that will not disappoint. If you loved Paula Quinn's other medieval romances, you will not want to miss this one and if you haven't had the pleasure of reading one of her books before Laird of the Mist, you will want to purchase them all to add to your collection. Her masterfully written medieval historical stories are a reader's joy! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Naughty by Nature

by Barbara Pierce

Fans of romance, and especially Barbara Pierce fans, will fall in love with this “Naughty” tale of passion that captivates the reader from the very first pages. Patience Rose Farnaly dreamed of being an actress. As a young girl of only fifteen, she is lured away from her upstanding aristocratic family by a ruthless con man, Julian Phoenix, for the theatre’s bright lights, but instead is abused. When an accident occurs, she leaves him for dead and joins another theatre group as Miss Winslow, feeling hurt and shamed to think of returning to her family. While entertaining with her new group at one of London’s finest homes, she meets the handsome and charming Fowler Knowden, Earl of Ramscar. Ram finds the audacious and beautiful Patience Rose as the one who could possibly bring his sister, Meredith, severely burned by a fire and living as a hermit; out of the house and into society. Not only does Patience have the “patience,” but the style to bring Meredith out into society like a shining star. There is also mystery and intrigue, as well as the joy of a reunion for the lovely and kind Patience. “Naughty by Nature” is truly a beautiful, touching, and yet sensual story with happy endings not just for Meredith, but true love for Patience and Ram. Not since Maddy and Christian Langland, Duke of Jerveaux in Laura Kinsdale’s “Flowers from the Storm” have I been so touched by a story. Ms. Pierce has written many entertaining and well-written romances, this is definitely one of her best! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Once a Rake

by Rona Sharon

When Rona Sharon wrote her debut "My Wicked Pirate," It was considered an unbelievably well-written story that read like it was written by an author that had written many books. Now with "Once a Rake," Ms. Sharon has proven with her complicated storyline and in-depth characters that her debut Historical Romance was not first time luck, but rather a debut of an extremely talented writer that is and will become a Historical Romance Reader's favorite for years to come. In this heartwarming story, the strong, troubled, lonely and handsome Paris, Earl of Ashby leaves England to fight Napoleon with his best friend Will and returns with physical as well as emotional scars, which include not returning with his best friend Will. He returns with what he left behind, which is an even stronger love for Will's little sister Isabel. Lady Isabel Aubrey is even more beautiful, independent and strong than when she was thirteen years old when Paris last saw her. They both fondly remember that last kiss on a garden bench; Isabel's first. Returning scarred in so many ways, he realizes he loves Isabel even more, but is not good enough for her. But Isabel, stronger than she was as a young girl, has never forgotten that first kiss on a garden bench long ago and has rejected numerous marriage proposals, leaving her heart open for Paris. Paris returns a recluse, but she tracks him down and brings him back to life on so many levels. Because of his love for Isabel, he eventually finds himself returning to society, and also helping her and her friends with their charity for war widows. But there are those who want to destroy Paris and Isabel's love, and even go as far as ruining the society that Isabel created that is helping so many war torn families. Isabel learns the difference between young puppy love and true sensual love while Paris comes to realize that he is more than a beautiful face. Once a rake, and at the top of society, he discovers true love is more than sensuality and passion, but true friendship and companionship. As Isabel and Paris learn the true meaning of life and love there is mystery, suspense, and an evil out to destroy what they have. Can Paris return to society, while Isabel learns to accept the changed Paris that is now so different from the handsome rake she first kissed so long ago? This story is another hard to put down book that keeps the reader engrossed until the end. It is a true delight and not to be missed for those who love good, solid Regencies with mystery and sensuality. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Seduction Is Forever

by Jenna Petersen

As in the other two "Lady Spies" series, Jenna Petersen has created another Regency of sensuality and suspense leaving readers glued to the pages so as not to miss a moment of a well-written story with unforgettable characters. The whole storyline of Lady Spies during this interesting period in history is dramatically different, but then adding aristocratic widows with unique personalities and inner struggles of their own to overcome creates one of the most superb historical romance suspense trilogies of all time. We left the last book with the heroine of this story, Emily Redgrave, shot and recuperating after being betrayed by a double agent. The recovered Emily is given a new assignment to protect the handsome Lord Westfield, Grant Ashbury, when really, unbeknownst to them, they have both been told to protect each other. The Foreign Office is wondering if two of their best agents still have what it takes. Is Emily traumatized by her shooting and is Grant really over his feelings of helplessness and hopelessness he experienced after a woman he knew got caught in the crossfire of a previous assignment? As Emily and Grant are thrown together to prove they still have the capabilities to continue as agents, their passion and desire for each other develops and grows, strengthening them along with their struggling doubts and discovery that both their skills are being watched and evaluated. Can they prove themselves as the excellent spies they are, while at the same time prove that their growing love can conquer all, making them stronger and even better agents, as Charlie, Lady M and Emily and Grant's friends and colleagues struggle with their doubts? The best is saved for last in "Seduction is Forever" and many of the questions left unanswered in the previous stories are revealed, i.e., who actually is the infamous Lady M? It is also enjoyable to revisit the lives of the other two previous widows; Charlie's other two Regency Angels, Meredith and Anastasia. There are so many surprises, sensuality, mystery and fun in this third book. It is disappointing that the trilogy has come to an end; or has it? Each book is strong enough to stand alone without reading the others first; but it certainly is a joy to read and re-read the series in order! Jenna Petersen's talent is masterful in this series, as well as her other books, and fans look forward to each one, patiently awaiting release dates. ......And for a further treat! Don't miss Jenna's erotic romances written under the pseudonym of Jess Michaels! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

No Regrets

by Michele Ann Young

Curvaceous and bespectacled Caroline Torrington has loved the handsome and charismatic Lord Lucas Foxhaven since childhood. Strong, but low on self-esteem, she feels dowdy and provincial, not realizing her friend Lucas finds everything about her wonderful, especially her curves. After her father's death, Caroline finds herself penniless and working hard scrubbing dishes in order to provide for her more beautiful and younger sisters. Caroline realizes her marriage to Lucas has been arranged and she would rather work than enter an arranged, loveless, marriage. Society considers her a laughingstock for not only refusing the marriage to Lord Foxhaven, but for her unacceptable societal appearance. Lucus, well-known rake, is aware he is adored by society, especially the ladies, but also realizes his father considers him a huge disappointment and is not ready for marriage. Lucas has no choice but to convince Caroline to marry him, otherwise, he will lose all of his funds. When Lucas and Caroline finally agree to a marriage of convenience, they both find themselves angry, disappointed, and confused. Caroline does not want to relinquish full control, finding herself married to Lucas and stuck back in the country while Lucas enjoys whatever he pleases. So when she finally gives in and agrees to the marriage, she insists on a bit more; a written and signed contract that states she is allowed the freedom to go to London in order to learn polish and style so she can create a future in society for her beautiful sisters, and once this is accomplished, Lucus will agree to a divorce. But is everything really as it appears; simple, yet complicated? Lucas fondly remembers growing up with Caroline, and deep inside has always found her curves and spectacles attractive. Does his father, society, as well as his dear friend, now wife, Caroline, really know the true Lucas? As Lucas and Caroline enter the marriage deep in unhappiness, Lucas has a wife and his father's approval, but finds himself more and more confused by his attraction to Caroline and his marriage. Instead of admitting the truth, he pushes Caroline further away from his daily life. Caroline still carries deep inside her the love she has had for Lucas for so many years. She soon begins to obtain some London polish, together with a touch of some happiness and a few friends, while trying so hard to keep her eyes on her goal of providing for her sister's future. But Caroline soon realizes she is not only learning about society and is beginning to fit in, but she is also developing sexual desire and passion for Lucas. Unable to deal with a life that has seemed to have always been full of heartache, with more heartache developing due to her growing desire for Lucus, she flees to Paris society in order to visit and become acquainted with her newly discovered mother's side of the family. She also decides this is the best time to finalize her marriage agreement with Lucus. She leaves England together with a note for Lucas stating this would be the best time for them to proceed with the divorce. Caroline discovers that her happiness in finding her family leads to a long, complicated series of secrets and betrayals that are not only dangerous, but involve kidnapping. Who can she really trust and turn to in this dangerous time? Upon learning that Lucas has lost Caroline and that she may be in danger, the suspense builds and Lucus realizes he has loved Caroline forever. Like so many times when they were children, he came to her rescue. Can he now be the one to save her from this treachery, when it really counts, while at the same time earn back her love and respect, hoping for the possibility they can create a future with true love, passion and happiness? Michele Ann Young has masterfully written a Regency Romance in a traditional style reminiscent of Jane Austen. "No Regrets" is a deeply moving, complicated love story with unforgettable characters. A perfect Regency Romance for the holiday season of true love and hope! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Riding the Thunder

by Deborah Macgillivray

If you are one of the many readers who enjoyed The Invasion of Falgannon Isle, you will be blown over and entertained to the maximum with DeborahAnne MacGillivray's sequel "Riding The Thunder." This is a writer that just keeps getting better with each book release. Her unique talent, knowledge base, writing prose, story and character development are truly amazing. This is definitely one of those stories that readers will not be able to put down and will probably read in a day, unable to pull themselves away from the sensual mystique of the story and its characters. Only Ms. MacGillivray can write a contemporary Scottish romance and construct it in such a way that it has the feel of a Medieval Historical and a Paranormal with a mix of suspense added to the story. If you are a cat lover, you will smile and laugh as she has the superb capability of inserting a feline character that actually fits into the storyline, adding an additional dimension to the Falgannon Isle series, as well as the other stories she writes. Taking place in parallel with the first book, while the eldest and leader of the Mershan family, Desmond, is boiling over with vengeance and is conquering the Falgannon Isle's leader and granddaughter, B.A. (BarbaraAnne Montgomerie), he sends his brother Jago to the State of Kentucky to zero in on B.A.'s sister Asha. In a very creative contemporary paranormal twist, there are numerous other strange happenings while the planned vengeance and takeover of Montgomerie Enterprises is taking place and the handsome Mershan men on different continents are sensually drawn to the beautiful, strong, intelligent and willful Montgomerie women. Similar to her sister B.A., Asha is responsible for her business and the livelihood of several unique secondary characters that are just as interesting and fun as the 213 Single Scotsmen B.A. is responsible for on Falgannon Isle. Asha is the owner of a unique 1960's period Diner and cottage rental that carry a mystique regarding the tragic death of two lovers back in the 1960's. The old jukebox at the Diner continues to randomly keep playing the tragic favorite love song of Jenny and Tommy. Very similar to the people of Falgannon Isle with their strange quirks, the people of Leesburg, Kentucky do not want any changes made to their small part of the world run by Asha. Stuck in the 60's they are as confused as Asha with the arrival of the sexy and handsome outsider, Jago Fitzgerald, (really Jago Mershan). Mystery begins to build and more than sparks fly. As Asha rides the thunder with Jago, they are not only enmeshed in the Montgomerie/Mershan ordeal, with Jago hiding his identity and the truth of the overtaking of Montgomerie Enterprises from Asha and her family, but Asha begins to have blackouts, not only reliving portions of the former 1960's tragic lovers lives, but suspicious parts of their tragic deaths. While giving into the sparks of desire and the wild ride of sensuality Asha and Jago's passion develops into a deep love. Jago struggles with the realization that he must tell Asha the reasons for his being in Leesburg and about the plan his brother Desmond has constructed to destroy the Montgomerie family. Just as everything is coming together for Jago and Asha, the true tragedy of Tommy and Jenny is revealed and Asha gets caught up in the danger while at the same time discovering that Jago has been lying to her. Can the handsome Jago regain her trust while at the same time save her and their love in time? Or will Leesburg once again experience a Jenny and Tommy tragedy? Don't miss reading this wonderfully entertaining story and series that is a Contemporary Romance with a mixture of the mystique of a Scottish Medieval Historical, Paranormal and Romance Suspense novel that is a true delight and masterpiece. I was awestruck by this story and highly recommend it for an extremely entertaining read! But don't miss the first book, The Invasion of Falgannon Isle. If you haven't had the pleasure yet, make a MacGillivray weekend and read them both! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Tell Me Lies

by Claudia Dain

The young, innocent, and beautiful Lydia McIntyre is traveling home to Williamsburg, Virginia from the Bahamas after caring for ill relatives when her ship is attacked by ruthless pirates. Bound to the hold of the ship she plans her survival. Fearing she will be taken by the entire pirate crew, she knows she must survive above all else. The dark, dangerous and handsome captain is her only chance to make it home alive. Knowing nothing of passion and desire she must somehow lure this captain to taking her. Danbridge Prentis, pirate hunter turned pirate, sees this lovely girl and knows what the crew would do. Lydia's plan works, as he sees only the desire in her eyes. Mistaking her for a practiced courtesan they spend endless nights of passion in his cabin. But many lies are told, as both Lydia and Dan are not what they seem. When Lydia eventually escapes the ship near the shores of Bath and makes her way back home to Williamsburg, litle does she know that Dan has been tracking her to her very door, as his family also happens to reside in Williamsburg. Lydia's parents know their daughter has suffered and have been worrying about her mood since her return. Their concerns deepen when they see Lydia's reaction to the nephew of the aristocratic Prentis family. Dan has returned to Williamsburg not only for Lydia, but to hunt for the individual who arranged to have him sail on a pirate ship to his death four years ago. He pursues Lydia for the lust and desire he cannot forget, as well as vengeance for the pirate life he was forced to live. Lies are told and truth is revealed in the end when Dan realizes his love for the beautiful Lydia. But is it too late to earn Lydia's love? Tell Me Lies is a passionate, sensual story of mystery and desire. A truly pleasurable read for those romance readers who enjoy a good pirate romance! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Forbidden Pleasures

by Monica Burns

Forbidden Pleasures is a delightful blend of two separate and sexy historical romances with interesting, well-developed story lines, strong characters, and well-written erotic love scenes, providing a pleasurable read. In Love's Revenge, a search for vengeance turns to passion and desire, as Quentin Blackwell, the Devil of Devlyn returns to his lands years after the severe betrayal of the woman he once loved. Eleanor had accused him of rape and then once her family stripped him of his lands, married another. Upon Quentin's return he is astonished to be visited by Eleanor's older spinster sister, Sophie Hamilton. Sophie has her own revenge in mind, as the man her sister married just happened to have been her fiance. Left alone, unmarried and emotionally and physically abused by her father, Sophie sees an opportunity to not only team up with Quentin, but to also experience the passion she has long been denied in her spinsterhood. She offers Quentin his revenge if he will teach her passion. Quentin finds bedding and using the daughter of his enemy as a means for satisfying revenge, but he did not realize that desire and passion has the ability to spin out of control. Quentin finds himself in an arranged marriage with the desirable Sophie. Sophie discovers her newfound passion and desire are turning into love. She struggles against the physical desire and pleasure found in Devlin's arms, not wanting to be emotionally hurt by the younger, seemingly heartless sensual man. When Devlin realizes the kind and passionate Sophie is much more than he deserves he struggles with his feelings of love over vengeance. Can Love's Revenge, so pleasurable and forbidden, turn into something more? A well-written, sexy story that is absorbing and difficult to put down. In Love's Portrait, the beautiful, luscious, intelligent widow Julia Westgard discovers freedom in her newfound widowhood. She raises society's eyebrows by becoming a business partner with the dashing handsome rogue of the Marlborough Set, Morgan St. Claire. She also holds a little scandalous secret. She has posed nude for a portrait, a symbol to her of her newfound freedom from a loveless and nonpassionate marriage. Little does she know that Morgan has had the pleasurable opportunity to have seen this portrait and is planning the right opportunity to get Julia into his bed. The opportunity presents itself when Julia decides to auction off one of his handkerchiefs for charity. Julia sees this as an opportunity to get back at an infamous rake known for loving and leaving women. When Morgan catches her in his bedroom stealing the handkerchief he wages a night in her bed and wins. But he soon discovers winning is not as sweet and refuses to bed an unwilling Julia. A sensual courtship begins and the desire builds with Julia succumbing to his sensual advances. They spend many passionate moments together and soon Morgan realizes he loves Julia and desires more than her body. Believing him to be the rake and rogue he always has been, Julia flees from him and his offer of marriage, a marriage she sees would be similar to the one she previously felt trapped in. Can Julia hold out against Morgan's pleasurable seduction? Will Morgan prove to Julia that his love is as true as his passion? Love's Portrait is a sensual pursuit that will leave the reader breathless. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Island Flame

by Karen Robards

In this reissue: Island Flame is an all-time classic for those romance readers who love a senusal pirate romance. The young beautiful blonde, blue-eyed, Lady Catherine Aldley has lived in opulent comfort with her father Sir Thomas Aldley, the ninth Earl of Badstoke as the Queen's Ambassador to Lisbon. He is concerned that "Cathy," now seventeen and starting to be courted by young men is becoming too isolated in Lisbon. So he decides to send her to England to live with her aunt and rejoin English society and make an advantageous marriage, sending her off on a military ship the "Anna Greer" feeling she will be safe. Little does he realize that silver and other expensive goods were to be disguised in the hold so that pirates would not discover the treasure. The dark, handsome, pirate Captain Jonathan Hale knows about this treasure and attacks the "Anna Greer," but comes to realize there is even a richer treasure when he feasts his eyes on the beautiful, young Cathy. In all of his 34 years he has never seen such beauty. Jon takes Cathy's innocence and continues to keep her captive throughout the long voyage. Once they stop for supplies at the Spanish Port of Cadiz, Cathy makes an escape attempt and falls into even rougher hands. Jon saves her, only to almost lose his own life. Through the long days of nursing Jon back to health, she learns from his man Petersham the hard boyhood and life Jon has had and she begins to realize she is falling in love with this dark, troubled pirate. When Jon awakes from his illness he realizes the same about Cathy and struggles with his feelings of love that are new to this hardened man. He takes her to his island home in Las Palmas and they have a short idyllic life, still not expressing their love. As Cathy discovers she is carrying Jon's child, the island is attacked by British ships. Her father is among them and he captures Jon and is ready to hang him. Cathy pleads for his life and that of her child and convinces her father to allow her to marry Jon. After the ceremony Cathy's father knocks Jon unconscious, has him hauled off to prison, but tells Cathy that he has escaped and left her alone and pregnant, while at the same time whipping and torturing Jon in prison telling him that all of his torture is at the request of Cathy. Jon eventually escapes and once again kidnaps a very pregnant Cathy, taking her this time to America to his Charleston plantation. There they struggle through their relationship and the mutual lies and betrayals. This is not a story for the squeamish. If the reader is uncomfortable with rape and harsh treatment, then this may be a book to avoid, but these details fit in a story about a rough pirate, and most definitely in the understanding and building of the hardened character of Jonathan Hale and how this young tenderhearted woman eventually breaks down all barriers within his heart and emotions and helps him understand himself and finally find true love and happiness. It is disturbing and dark at times, with a happily ever after ending. A true classic romance that is rare and one that is destined to be on romance collector's shelves for years to come. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

His Unexpected Bride

by Jodici Belle

When the Marquis of Rutledge is pressured by his mother to join the marriage mart, he decides he must do something quick to stop the parade of young debutantes his mother is forcing on him at social events. He suddenly thinks of a name, Miss Hinglebottom; a name sounding so ridiculous to him that no one would think it is made up. As soon as he is approached by matchmaking mamas with daughters in tow and announces his betrothed's name, Lady Witherspoon erupts with "Not Miss Bethany Hinglebottom?" Damien realizes he is in trouble. So off to the country he and his mother go to pick up his betrothed and bring her back to London. Bethany, not realizing a thing, is happily living her country life after her disasterous past London seasons. Clumsiness is and has been her biggest problem with one mishap after another happening to and around her, from ripped hems to downright trips and falls. When the handsome Damien shows up at her home, she is taken with the handsome Marquis and delighted that he has supposedly seen her in the past, remembered her, and wants her. Before she knows it she is in a coach to London to live with Damien's family. Damien sees that Bethany is a nice girl, feels guilty about the deception and tries to think of a way he can tell her the truth. When Damien finally admits the lie to his family, they decide they must provide her with a season and real fiance. Damien's sister Violet gets involved and assists Bethany with her wardrobe, as well as some tips on how to gain Damien's attention. When Damien sees Bethany's transformation and that other gentlemen are pursuing her, he realizes he desires her. Fooled previously by his lies and advances, Bethany tries to resist Damien. Eventually desire and passion build and she gives into his advances and is compromised. Damien feels he must marry her, but Bethany wants to marry for love. Damien continues his sensual pursuit and Bethany once again succumbs, but this time to love. When Damien's ex-mistress shows up, wanting him back, Bethany feels she has truly made a mistake. It is then up to Damien to convince Bethany that he truly loves his unexpected bride. The story is fun and sensual with twists and turns in the plot that make the reader laugh and cry. A truly delightful fairy tale romance about a clumsy duckling and libertine that turns the duckling into a beautiful swan and finds true love in the process. ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Secrets of a Duchess

by Kaitlin O'riley

Upon the death of their father, Caroline Armstrong and her sister Emma have arrived in London to live with their grandmother, The Dowager Countess of Glenwood. Emma is enjoying the season tremendously, but Caroline is in dread. She has a secret that keeps her from accepting any marriage offers. She is waiting for a young American from Virginia who left her two years ago to fight in the Civil War. She devises a plan and presents herself to prospective suitors as a dull bluestocking. Her plan is working until she meets Alexander Woodward, The Duke of Woodborough on a moonlit balcony at the Maxwell Ball. They have something in common, as he is also avoiding the marriage mart, particularly marriage with Lord Maxwell's spoiled daughter Madeline. Alex and Caroline form an immediate bond and while captured by the moment, Caroline shares her secret with Alex. Alex asks to seal their bargain with a kiss, which sets off a spark of desire. He is intrigued by the beautiful Caroline and sends flowers the following morning with an invitation to visit. He offers Caroline an interesting proposal; a pretend courtship and engagement in order to avoid any further marriage proposals. Caroline agrees to this proposition, not realizing that Alex's real plan is to court her hoping she will forget the young American. As they enjoy the season, Alex takes his time, not overwhelming Caroline, and soon a deep friendship develops with underlying deep passions pulsating beneath the surface. When Caroline visits the home estate of Alex and meets his mother, Caroline begins to realize that she has slowly been captured by his charms and kisses. Desire and passion builds with Alex revealing to Caroline that he loves her and wants to marry her. While Caroline struggles with her secret, she discovers she has truly fallen in love with Alex. But there is more to the secret that she has not told Alex. Now that she is his wife, will the Secrets of a Duchess be revealed? When the young American suddenly returns and the spoiled, jealous Madeline sees a way to get her revenge, will their love be strong enough to weather the storm? Secrets of a Duchess is beautifully written and captivating. What is most amazing about this story is that with all of the romances ever written, this one seems fresh, making the reader feel like this is the first romance ever read. It is a true delight to read. The prose flows and a feeling of magic is felt with every turn of the page. Kailin O'Riley is destined to be a romance readers favorite and a writer who will not be able to write fast enough for her fans. A truly beautiful book! The best debut of the year! ~ Beverly Meiner, Beverly Romance Books

Wild

by Noelle MacK

Sexy and Wild Erotica at Its Best! �Wild� is the first of three sexy historical and paranormal erotic novels about three handsome and passionate Russian brothers, Kyril, Marko, and Semyon. The three brothers, who are an integral trio of the Pack of St. James, not only have the ability to lure all eyes and turn all heads of the ladies in the Ton just by being handsome and mysterious, but they can also use their old legendary supernatural powers to make them even more sensual and powerful than any normal man. How can any woman with an ounce of passion resist them? Kyril is the focus of this first book, which also introduces the reader to those in the Pack of St. James and the Pack�s powers, Kyril�s brothers, and the evil that exists out to destroy them all. A priceless and powerful treasure of the Pack has been stolen from their Russian homeland and thought to be in England. Kyril, who commands the pack, is also the leader in this intricate and intense search. In the midst of the search Kyril discovers that his heart is in as much or even more peril than the treasure. While working on the whereabouts of the treasure, he comes into contact with the alluring and beautiful Vivienne Sheridan. He recognizes her as his mate � terrible timing for him � because he feels his intense feelings of passion and desire could bring even more peril than the loss of the priceless treasure -- disaster and possibly even death to those he holds lifelong allegiance to. Vivienne is mesmerized by Kyril and the intense passion between them and finds she will give him anything he wants, physically, emotionally and materially. From start to finish the intensity is extreme and the passion is �wild!� Will Kyril be able to find the treasure and true love at the same time? Noelle Mack, already known for her delicious and juicy stories, has developed a trilogy that is intense, sensual, mysterious and destined to be a tremendously popular series that erotic and paranormal fans will not only be able to put down, but count the days until the next release. If you have enjoyed Ms. Mack�s other novels, this one will impress you even more. Reviewed by: Beverly Meiner Beverly Romance Books

An Affair Before Christmas

by Eloisa James

A BEAUTIFUL AND SENSUAL CHRISTMAS ROMANCE! In a captivating and beautiful story, we find the beautiful, young, and innocent Lady Perdita (Poppy) who has fallen head over heels in love with the handsome Duke of Fletcher, considered the catch of the season. Fletch feels the same for his beautiful Poppy and patiently awaits their wedding day. Little does he realize that the young and innocent Poppy has not been properly prepared for her wedding night, but instead has been controlled by an overbearing mother who has filled her head with unrealistic expectations of marriage and the marriage bed. Fletch experiences a disappointing wedding night, not understanding that Poppy needs tutoring in the ways of passion and marriage. Instead of being patient and instructing Poppy, Fletch distances himself from his beauty and soon an intense love turns to disappointment and severe loneliness for them both. As four years go by, Fletch even considers obtaining a mistress, but all he can think about is his love and desire for Poppy. Besides, he sees all the infidelity and unhappiness around him in society that brings little happiness to those involved. Poppy understands that something is seriously wrong with her marriage, doesn�t understand how it can be fixed, and is left heartbroken. How can she bring back the intense love that Fletch had for her at one time? Before the marriage, she always seemed to please him, and since the marriage, everything she does is for Fletch. But that is the sweet Poppy�s main problem; pleasing everyone but herself and in so doing, feels she has accomplished nothing but disappointing the man she loves so intensely. Poppy understands the whole society side of being a duchess, but not a thing about being a true wife, especially because, just as her loving Fletch, she sees nothing but unhappiness in society marriages. Poppy makes the ultimate decision in her yearning for happiness in her life. She walks out on Fletch and her overbearing mother, leaving them both behind, and decides she will enjoy her own life and stop trying to please everyone else. It is not until Fletch loses his precious Poppy that he realizes he must woo her back somehow. Unwilling to lose her, Fletch decides to begin an intense seduction of Poppy that has her head and heart spinning, but not impressed. Can Fletch win back the love of his precious Poppy before Christmas? In the masterful writing style of Eloisa James, An Affair Before Christmas is a wonderful sensual sequel to the Desperate Duchesses Series. Adding an interesting depth to this story, the reader gets to revisit some of the secondary characters from the first book, like the infamous rake The Duke of Villiers and the dysfunctional Elijah and Jemma, The Duke and Duchess of Beaumont. Ms. James cleverly allows the reader to revisit these dysfunctional characters in order to emphasize and help the reader fully understand how Poppy and Fletch can become so disillusioned about love. An Affair Before Christmas romance is a delightful read and perfect for a holiday that celebrates true love and happiness.

From London With Love

by Jenna Petersen

In this first installment of The Lady Spies Series, we are introduced to the infamous Lady M and Charles Isley as they create a new network of lady spies from society, young widows of beauty and intelligence, who will train and uncover traitorous plots against The Crown. Meredith Sinclair is the first beauty. Widow of a loveless marriage, Meredith discovers excitement and freedom in being one of the Lady Spies and working in the field picking locks and dodging bullets is her forte. When she is given a new assignment involving the handsome Tristan Archer, Marquis of Carmichael, who she has been attracted to since he saved her life as a young girl, her skills are put to the test. In order to discover if he is involved in treasonous activities she finagles an invitation to his family's house party. Little does she realize that Tristan has always been attracted to her and that now that she is back in his life, he finds her hard to resist. Tristan is out for vengeance to uncover the treasonous villain that was responsible for the death of his brother, who was killed in a military battle because of important information leaked about the location of troops. He realizes he must keep away from Meredith so she is not pulled into the danger. At the same time Meredith is trying to discover if Tristan is indeed linked to an oil painting that hides treasonous documents. Tristan and Meredith are drawn together by their individual missions and passionate desire for each other. As the activities of their individual missions and the house party spin out of control, Meredith and Tristan come together in a moment of intense passion in his bedchamber. The villain then uses their attraction to get away and when Meredith discovers evidence that points to Tristan she has him arrested, only to realize later that he may not be guilty. With the help of the other Lady Spies she frees Tristan and they work together in an exciting finale to uncover the real treasonous villain. From London With Love is a sensual, delightful adventure from start to finish that is difficult to put down. I can't wait to read and re-read the entire series!

Desire Never Dies

by Jenna Petersen

As if it can get any better, Jenna Petterson delights her fans with this next installment of The Lady Spies Series! The beautiful and shy Lady Anastasia Whittig is only too happy to stay at home and be the infamous code breaker of the Lady Spies team. It has been five years since Gerald's death and Ana still wears black and misses her childhood sweetheart, first and only love. But when Emily is shot in the line of duty while on assignment, it is up to Ana to step up and take her place. Now her training will be put to the test and is complicated when she discovers her partner is to be the handsome spymaster Lucas Tyler. Lucas brings out uncomfortable desires Ana never had with Gerald. Little does Ana realize that Lucus is extremely attracted to Ana and when circumstances of the case cause them to arrange a fake engagement, real passions flare and they are forced into a speedy marriage. Marriage complicates issues for them both, as Lucas believes Ana still loves Gerald and Ana believes the best friend of Lucas may be involved in the murders of government agents, including the shooting of Emily. Tensions and suspicions build as the treasonous insider is revealed and Ana and Lucus discover they make a successful team in more ways than working together as field agents. Another sensual regency era spy adventure with plot twists and turns that keep the reader riveted to the page.

Scandalous

by Jenna Petersen

How delighted I was with the pleasurable erotic historical romance anthology "Parlor Games" and one of the stories by the author Jess Michaels a.k.a. Jenna Petersen. So it is no wonder why the historical romance debut of "Scandalous" has wonderful sensual shades of Jess Michaels' erotic touch. On a terrace in the moonlight the handsome and sensual Dominic Mallory sees the beautiful Katherine Fleming enjoying the snow and the stars. Immediately he thinks of this beauty in his bed, but later when he discovers that she is the fiance of his estranged brother Colden, he must back away. But in a strange twist Dominic finds himself quickly engaged and married to the sensual beauty, when his brother's dead wife returns from the dead. Colden insists that Dominic marry Katherine in order to avoid scandal, as Colden has already spent her dowry and in turn he will give Dominic the family lands he has always wanted. As Dominic and Katherine begin their life on his new estate, the passion and desire builds to love, but little does Katherine realize the treachery and lies that she has married into with the Mallory family. When Dominic's bastard identity is revealed to her and she discovers he married her only for access to the lands so he can discover his father's identity, and that Colden, his wife Sarah and other family members were involved in the lies, she is devastated. When Dominic realizes that in his lifelong quest for truth about his paternity, he may lose Katherine, he makes a decision to keep Katherine, but is it too late? The story is sensual and mysterious with underlying treachery that culminates to an intense conclusion making the reader realize that no matter how scandalous, true love conquers all.

If You Dare

by Kresley Cole

A handsome, overbearing Scottish mercenary with a deadly curse and a passionate, hot-blooded Castilian beauty with a family scandal come together in an intense story of desire while fleeing from treachery. The beautiful Annalia Elisabet Catherina Tristan, daughter of the Llorente family lives with her brother Aleix high in the Pyrenees Mountains, where the evil General Reynaldo Pascal is holding Aleix as blackmail so that Annalia will marry him. He has already taken over the Principality of Andorra and wants the beautiful Annalia for her Castilian blood so he can claim more power and direct conncetion to the throne of Spain. Little does he know that Court MacCarrick, the hired Scottish mercenary would turn against him. When attempts at killing Court fail, it is Annalia who discovers his unconscious body and takes him to her home in the mountains to care for him. Upon awakening he discovers immediate desire for his beautiful healer and soon comes to discover her connection to Pascal. Annalia is disturbed to discover an attraction to Court as well, but remembers how her mother's passionate nature resulted in her being banished from the honorable Castilian family in scandal. They both fight against this attaction and their deep passions, as Annalia wants nothing to do with another one of the many barbarian Scots who have come to her land to hire on with Pascal and Court does not desire the complications of a woman, as a deadly family curse hangs over the MacCarrick's that states any woman the MacCarrick men fall in love with, death follows. When Annalia requests Court's help in rescuing her brother and he refuses, she has no other alternative but to go to Pascal and agree to the marriage. It is then that Court decides to rescue Annalia and Aleix both. But when the rescue attempt for Aleix fails and Annalia is shot, Court has no choice but to protect her and flee alone with her. It is Olivia, Pascal's daughter that eventually rescues Aleix. Upon the escapes Pascal sets his assasins called Rechazados upon them all and as Annalia and Court race to London and then onto Scotland to safety of his family, Aleix and Olivia follow. While on the run Annalia and Court's desire builds and they come together in many passionate encounters. Once in London they both realize they love each other, but Court is reminded by his brothers of the deadly curse and he comes to the hurtful realization that if he wants Annalia to live he must let her go. Eventually everyone comes together to fight off the evil Rechazados and Pascal, but it is the MacCarrick curse that is left hanging over everyone. The story ends with the discovery of the missing lines of the curse and what the MacCarrick brothers will do with this information is going to make for interesting sequels to this passionate trilogy. If You Dare is an excellent start to the the exciting adventures of the MacCarrick Brothers. If You Desire and If You Deceive are two further stories to look forward to.

Midnight Eyes

by Sarah Brophy

When Robert Beaumont, the handsome mercenary knight and bastard son of a Norman nobleman, wins lands and the hand of the infamous "Lady Deformed" in marriage after years of fighting for King William II, little does he realize that the extremely beautiful Lady Imogen Colebrook is not extremely deformed, but merely blind. But there are deep, dark, sick secrets lurking in her dark world, and her evil, sick and twisted brother Roger, the lover of King William, is behind all the darkness, evil and pain. Years ago he was banished by his parents from Shadowsend Keep when he attempted to kill his sister Imogen. Instead, Imogen fell down the stairs and was blinded. Blaming Imogen for his banishment, he returned years later and killed his parents. Since that time, he returns at intervals to administer cruel psychological and physical torture on the blind Imogen, who he keeps captive in her blindness and bed chamber. Through the years Imogen calls these sick contacts as "The Game," and when Robert shows up as the new master of the keep and husband, she feels he is just another playing piece in "The Game." Robert expects the worst of a marriage to "Lady Deformed," but is nearly knocked senseless with desire when he sees the stunning beauty. For the first time in her life Imogen is treated tenderly by a man, and even though she believes Robert was sent by her brother Roger, she begins to fall in love with him. Robert knows his lady is holding deep, dark secrets, but he takes joy in seeing her come out of her dark world and chamber to learn about him, his men and the daily life of the keep. His love grows and deepens and he even begins to feel jealousy at the courtly love his men express toward his beautiful and kindhearted wife. When Robert learns more about her past and this secret "Game" and that her own brother is the cause, he is angered, troubled and pained that she will not trust him enough to share the entire truth. Suddenly the evil breaks into their idyllic life in the form of secretive messages only to be given to Imogen from Roger. Thinking he is a successful, well-trained knight capable of protecting Imogen, little does Robert know that he has become another playing piece in Roger's Game. When Roger finally unveils his complete plan by using King William's love for him, Roger convinces the King that Robert is committing treason by attempting to replace him on the throne with his brother Henry. When Robert is arrested and waiting hanging for treason, he can finally play out his Game with Imogen. When Imogen realizes that Robert's expressions of love are true and that he has become a victim in "The Game" and not a partner with Roger as originally thought, she flees to King William to finally unveil the truth and the years of secrets she has kept to herself. The intense passion and love, together with the constant evil lurking to damage Robert and Imogen's happiness, makes for an enthralling, mezmerizing read that is difficult to put down. Midnight Eyes is an intense and interesting story with light delightful moments, and a happy ending. It has many components of a solid medieval historical romance - a very evil villian, a beautiful damsel in distress, and a handsome knight coming to the rescue, as well as secondary characters that blend in well with the main characters. It is a well-written, fast paced enjoyable read. I look forward to more stories from this author; hopefully about Robert's comrade Gareth.

The Price of Desire

by Leda Swann

The desire to have someone body and soul turns into love in this erotic historical romance tale of the beautiful young and innocent virgin Caroline Clemons who suddenly finds herself and her siblings penniless after the suicide of her prominent society banker father. She is depending on the honor of Captain Bellamy to hold to their engagement agreement. When he breaks the engagement and offers her the position of mistress instead of wife, Caroline is devastated. She sees her father's way as the easy way out. As she sits in the conservatory at a society gathering and plans the taking of her siblings life and herself, the handsome and wealthy Dominic Savage approaches her. He is under the misconception that she is the widow of the now deceased banker. He has desired her for his mistress from the moment he saw her across the room. Thinking this is to be her last evening alive, she gives up her innocence to Dominic with such passion that he wants her body and soul. Later that night, Caroline discovers she cannot go through with her plan and the following morning she and her siblings enter the local workhouse. Once again the evil Captain Bellamy tries to manipulate her to becoming his mistress and arranges it so that she is removed from the workhouse. As she and her siblings are being removed to the streets once again, Dominic steps in to rescue her. Now that she has no other alternative and he appears to be more honest and upfront in his offer, and mostly because she cannot forget the passion and pleasure she experienced when he took her virginity, she takes him up on his offer. He takes her and her family in and provides a home, education and dowries. She in turn is to provide him with every desire and pleasure and he will teach her everything he has learned about pleasure in India. At first Caroline is shy and uncomfortable, but soon learns to make the best of the arrangement. When Dominic takes her on a trip to spend time at a house of pleasure called Sugar and Spice, he comes to realize that he does not want to share Caroline with any other man. He discovers that he not only wants her to belong to him body and soul - he now wants to win her heart. He then begins to court her, but when a strange twist of fate causes him to lose his fortune, he can no longer keep her and she moves to the small estate given to her by Dominic in their original agreement. Caroline is then pursued by numerous gentlemen desiring her pleasures, but it is only Dominic that fills her thoughts and desires. When she finally has no choice but to offer herself up for auction in order to continuing supporting herself and her siblings, one bidder offers "...my love for you, because that is all I have to offer." The Price of Desire is a passionate, moving story of hardship, desire, passion and love that is not only a good sensual story, but well-written with substance. An excellent erotic read.

Midnight Eyes

by Sarah Brophy

When Robert Beaumont, the handsome mercenary knight and bastard son of a Norman nobleman, wins lands and the hand of the infamous "Lady Deformed" in marriage after years of fighting for King William II, little does he realize that the extremely beautiful Lady Imogen Colebrook is not extremely deformed, but merely blind. But there are deep, dark, sick secrets lurking in her dark world, and her evil, sick and twisted brother Roger, the lover of King William, is behind all the darkness, evil and pain. Years ago he was banished by his parents from Shadowsend Keep when he attempted to kill his sister Imogen. Instead, Imogen fell down the stairs and was blinded. Blaming Imogen for his banishment, he returned years later and killed his parents. Since that time, he returns at intervals to administer cruel psychological and physical torture on the blind Imogen, who he keeps captive in her blindness and bed chamber. Through the years Imogen calls these sick contacts as "The Game," and when Robert shows up as the new master of the keep and husband, she feels he is just another playing piece in "The Game." Robert expects the worst of a marriage to "Lady Deformed," but is nearly knocked senseless with desire when he sees the stunning beauty. For the first time in her life Imogen is treated tenderly by a man, and even though she believes Robert was sent by her brother Roger, she begins to fall in love with him. Robert knows his lady is holding deep, dark secrets, but he takes joy in seeing her come out of her dark world and chamber to learn about him, his men and the daily life of the keep. His love grows and deepens and he even begins to feel jealousy at the courtly love his men express toward his beautiful and kindhearted wife. When Robert learns more about her past and this secret "Game" and that her own brother is the cause, he is angered, troubled and pained that she will not trust him enough to share the entire truth. Suddenly the evil breaks into their idyllic life in the form of secretive messages only to be given to Imogen from Roger. Thinking he is a successful, well-trained knight capable of protecting Imogen, little does Robert know that he has become another playing piece in Roger's Game. When Roger finally unveils his complete plan by using King William's love for him, Roger convinces the King that Robert is committing treason by attempting to replace him on the throne with his brother Henry. When Robert is arrested and waiting hanging for treason, he can finally play out his Game with Imogen. When Imogen realizes that Robert's expressions of love are true and that he has become a victim in "The Game" and not a partner with Roger as originally thought, she flees to King William to finally unveil the truth and the years of secrets she has kept to herself. The intense passion and love, together with the constant evil lurking to damage Robert and Imogen's happiness, makes for an enthralling, mezmerizing read that is difficult to put down. Midnight Eyes is an intense and interesting story with light delightful moments, and a happy ending. It has many components of a solid medieval historical romance - a very evil villian, a beautiful damsel in distress, and a handsome knight coming to the rescue, as well as secondary characters that blend in well with the main characters. It is a well-written, fast paced enjoyable read. I look forward to more stories from this author; hopefully about Robert's comrade Gareth.

The Price of Desire

by Leda Swann

The desire to have someone body and soul turns into love in this erotic historical romance tale of the beautiful young and innocent virgin Caroline Clemons who suddenly finds herself and her siblings penniless after the suicide of her prominent society banker father. She is depending on the honor of Captain Bellamy to hold to their engagement agreement. When he breaks the engagement and offers her the position of mistress instead of wife, Caroline is devastated. She sees her father's way as the easy way out. As she sits in the conservatory at a society gathering and plans the taking of her siblings life and herself, the handsome and wealthy Dominic Savage approaches her. He is under the misconception that she is the widow of the now deceased banker. He has desired her for his mistress from the moment he saw her across the room. Thinking this is to be her last evening alive, she gives up her innocence to Dominic with such passion that he wants her body and soul. Later that night, Caroline discovers she cannot go through with her plan and the following morning she and her siblings enter the local workhouse. Once again the evil Captain Bellamy tries to manipulate her to becoming his mistress and arranges it so that she is removed from the workhouse. As she and her siblings are being removed to the streets once again, Dominic steps in to rescue her. Now that she has no other alternative and he appears to be more honest and upfront in his offer, and mostly because she cannot forget the passion and pleasure she experienced when he took her virginity, she takes him up on his offer. He takes her and her family in and provides a home, education and dowries. She in turn is to provide him with every desire and pleasure and he will teach her everything he has learned about pleasure in India. At first Caroline is shy and uncomfortable, but soon learns to make the best of the arrangement. When Dominic takes her on a trip to spend time at a house of pleasure called Sugar and Spice, he comes to realize that he does not want to share Caroline with any other man. He discovers that he not only wants her to belong to him body and soul - he now wants to win her heart. He then begins to court her, but when a strange twist of fate causes him to lose his fortune, he can no longer keep her and she moves to the small estate given to her by Dominic in their original agreement. Caroline is then pursued by numerous gentlemen desiring her pleasures, but it is only Dominic that fills her thoughts and desires. When she finally has no choice but to offer herself up for auction in order to continuing supporting herself and her siblings, one bidder offers "...my love for you, because that is all I have to offer." The Price of Desire is a passionate, moving story of hardship, desire, passion and love that is not only a good sensual story, but well-written with substance. An excellent erotic read.

O'Rourke's Bride

by Barbara Dan

Barbara Dan treats romance fans with a brand new rip roaring western romance with sexy passionate Irish characters that are very much like a mixture of two all-time favorite John Wayne movies, The Quiet Man and McLintock. Kate McGillacutty has grown up with all the conveniences of a wealth, but unfortunately without the closeness of her father, as her parents have been estranged. Her father decides it is time he needs an heir to his fortune and brings Kate and her mother back out west in order to arrange a marriage with the foreman of his mine. Kate and her father strongly disagree and when they argue she decides to outsmart him and his plan by marrying the first man she sees on the street. The handsome, down on his luck, Irish aristocrat, turned actor, and now just plain passed out drunk, Peter O'Rourke is her choice. He makes a side deal with her father to not only marry Kate, but accept a lumberjack foreman job. The main part of the plan is to take the pampered Kate with him to the camp in order to teach her the value of hard work and then return her in the spring for an annulment and remarriage to the foreman her father wanted her to marry all along. Kate is furious when she discovers she has been fooled and decides she is going to show everyone. Both Peter and Kate have much to prove to themselves and each other running and supporting the lumber camp, not counting on their desire that soon spins out of control. When the lumber camp burns in a forest fire they run for their lives and spend the night in a cave where their intense passion can no longer be denied and realize they are meant to be together. When word comes that Peter is now the heir to his family's title, he hides that little bit of information and not only does he end up fooling Kate's father into a deal so he can become a lumbar baron in his own right, but he fools Kate as well, who thinks he robs a bank for her. The sparks fly once again between the firey Irish couple with the families coming together. O'Rourke's Bride is a well-written story with passionate characters that will make you smile and laugh. It is a pleasure to read a brand new western romance that is so much fun. I can't wait for more from this author.

The Mad, Bad Duke

by Jennifer Ashley

Jennifer Ashley superbly blended dreams of cinderella with sexy romance in her first fantasy about the Land of Nvengaria in Penelope & Prince Charming. In this sequel, Alexander, Grand Duke of Nvengaria, also known as The Mad Bad Duke is living in England, assigned to represent Nvengaria for his cousin, Prince Damien. All the ladies of London are chasing the dark, handsome, bad duke and want him in their beds. When Megan Tavistock meets her married friend Deirdre at Black Annie's home in order for Deirdre to receive a "lust charm" so that she can lure Alex into her bed, something goes wrong with the charm. When Megan holds the charm for Deirdre in her reticule so that Deirdre's husband does not discover it, it is only Megan that Alex lusts for upon first sight when he enters the ballroom. He takes her innocence at the ball and later insists upon marriage. Thinking that they only lust for each other due to the lust charm, Alex and Megan stuggle with their intense feelings of passion and desire. Nvengarians are naturally lustful people, but when Alex discovers he just happens to be half logosh, one of the magical beings of Nvengaria, his animal instincts become more intense during intense passion with Megan and he becomes concerned that he will harm her the more they are together. He fights his feelings of lust and love and his half logosh self. As their love grows the danger builds for the troubled Alex and Nvengaria. It is then up to Megan to help Alex realize that true love, not lust and a lust charm, will help him come to terms with his past, face his future, and help save Nvengaria. The Mad Bad Duke is a beautiful, magical, sensual story with the perfect blend of fantasy and romance that is difficult to put down.

How to Abduct a Highland Lord

by Karen Hawkins

Karen Hawkins delights fans of Scottish Romance once again in this first of a new series about the highland MacLean Family. Black Jack Kincaid had his roguish heart broken years ago when the beautiful green-eyed Fiona MacLean refused his offer of marriage. After years of drinking and wenching he wakes up from being drunk and unconscious on a road to London to discover he is now wed to Fiona. When her brother Callum is murdered and a Kincaid is blamed, Fiona has no choice but to abduct and marry this handsome auburn-haired, blue-eyed rogue in order to halt the MacLean-Kincaid life-long feud. After all, the MacLean's only power, other than their good looks, is the ability to make it rain and thunderstorm! When Jack is determined that his marriage will not affect his rogue lifestyle, he flees with Fiona to his London home in order to be in control of the relationship. Once there Fiona's beauty, passion, and kindness begins to warm Jack's cold heart. London experiences a stormy season as the MacLean brothers follow to make sure their little sister is happy in her new marriage. An ex-lover of Jack's who wants him back in her bed and a member of the Campbell family who wants revenge, get in the act to make trouble. When attempts on Fiona's life are made, Jack and Fiona return to Scotland, where the mystery of Callum's death and attempts on Fiona's life are unveiled. The story is sexy, witty, fast paced and pure regency highland fun!

What a Lady Wants

by Victoria Alexander

When the handsome, Honorable Nigel Cavendish meets with the other two last men standing to discuss the current bet of who will be last to marry, he is the one most firm in his announcement that what happened to their friend Lord Warton will not happen to him. But when he jumps over the fence into the yard of Lady Felicity Mellville while fleeing the husband of his latest paramour, he is immediately taken with the intelligent beauty and her deep brown eyes. Wishes, fate, and a little manipulation from his twin sister Maddy, brings them together at every turn and the passion and desire grows spinning Nigel's ordered life out of control. When he enters her balcony again to steal a family painting she won from him in a card game, Felicity meets him with gun in hand. No matter how he fights his desire, he can't help but kiss Felicity senseless. So senseless that she drops the gun she is holding to ward off the intruder, it goes off and loudly shatters a vase, and Nigel jumps over the balcony and into the thorn bushes below. It is in that position he meets Felicity's father the Earl of Dunbury. The last thing Felicity wants is a forced marriage. She would like to believe it is her wish upon a star or fate that brings them together with eventual love. But when Felicity asks her father if they could just overlook the incident, he replies "A man falling from a woman's balcony after a shot is heard is the sort of thing gossips dream about. Add a midget and a monkey and it would be the stuff legends are made of!" So they are married in haste with Nigel afraid to even mention the words marriage and wife. He announces after the ceremony that his life is going to be as it always has been, minus the other women. Felicity once again obtains the help of Nigel's twin sister Maddy and they scheme a bit to help Nigel wonder what his beautiful wife is doing while he is living his separate life. When Nigel becomes bored at his club and former interests he realizes he misses Felicity's company, but when he follows her to his sister's home he finds out that a bit of manipulation from Felicity and Maddy, not what he feels was fate, intervened to make him a married man. He and Maddy argue with Felicity announcing she will let him have his wish and his freedom. When his father passes on and Nigel moves into the title of Viscount, more responsibilites and circumstances are added to his life and it is then that he comes to realize that love and fate, not manipulation, is what brought he and Felicity together, and that he misses Felicity and wants her back. It may take another trip over the balcony and a shot to go off for things to be settled. But one thing for sure is that the second book in "The Last Man Series" is a delightful, whimsical, fast paced story with entertaining dialgoue between the characters, that is witty, sexy and pure historical romance fun!

Dangerous to Know

by Mary Jo Putney

In the reissue of The Diabolical Baron Jason Kincaid, the nineteenth Baron Radford, decides it is time to acquire a wife. He fell in love once in his youth, only to have his young love run away with a military man. In a heartless bet with his friend he chooses the shy, young and innocent Caroline Hanscombe's name out of a hat and decides to meet her at Almacks. He courts and then asks for Caroline's hand in marriage. Although Caroline is not in love with Jason, she is forced to accept the handsome, yet seemingly cold man for the money he can bring her aunt and uncle who have been caring for her for so many years. Caroline has lived with only the love of her beloved widowed Aunt Jessica, where she takes refuge in her home whenever she can in order to use her piano and compose the beautiful music she loves to write and play. It is only when Caroline writes and plays her music that she truly feels alive, and when she is whisked off to Jason's country estate, she feels even more alone, realizing he does not truly love her, and that she will have to live in a cold, loveless marriage. There she meets his new neighbor, Richard Davenport. Richard is the heir to the neighboring estate, but does not want to accept the title, as his mother and father were cut and estranged from the family when they married and ran away years ago. He arrives at the estate disguised as a custodian, and while spending time there comes across Caroline in the well-equipped music room. The handsome Richard also loves music and he and Caroline form a bond that soon grows to love. When Caroline's Aunt Jessica shows up at the Radford estate for a visit in preparation for the upcoming wedding, it is discovered that she is the young beauty that Jason loved and lost so many years ago. They both discover the love they once lost, but concern over Caroline's feelings keep them apart once more. The story develops and twists as the couples struggle with their relationships and true loves. It all comes to a shocking conclusion at the engagement ball when the couples realize they are all in love with the wrong, but then the right people. The shock of this discovery, together with the true identity of Richard culminates in an unsolved mystery and treacherous plot by one of Richard's relatives. A true love story, excellently written, of love once lost and won again. In the western novella, Mad, Bad, and Dangerous the young, beautiful, pregnant widow Elizabeth Holden discovers the handsome prisoner she helps save from abuse in the streets of a small Texas town is the man convicted of shooting and killing her abusive husband. When she brings Andrew Kane dinner and is locked in the room with him where he is held prisoner, a fight breaks out and she cannot leave. They talk and discover a connection to each other, as they both have been used and abused by the Holden family. Liza hears his story and learns about his family in England and his land and ranch, The Lazy K. Soon the attraction they had to each other from first sight grows to desire and they experience a moment of passion before Kane is taken to hang and she is go live with the Holden family in a prison of her own, as they only want Liza for the baby. The story itself has a strange twist and surprise ending, and is an excellent short story, but would seem to be even better if extended to a longer story and book of its own. Also, this western romance novella doesn't seem to fit with the regency The Diabolical Baron. Both stories, excellent in their own right, seem to suffer a bit under the different title of Dangerous to Know.

Love Storm

by Susan Johnson

Love storm is a story of intense lust and passion about the handsome Russian Prince Alexander Nikolaevich Kuzan and the young, innocent, beauty, Zena Turku, the daughter of Baron Turku. Alex has a past of hard, cold-hearted women in his bed and life and has learned to use women as a means to only warm his bed, not his heart. He rescues Zena as she is running away from a forced marriage with the revolting, aging General Scobluff. Thinking she is a courtesan, he takes her innocence and then attempts to justify his action by taking her into his protection. Zena has been raised to be a lady, and although she feels the passion and desire that Alex has awakened in her young body, her heart becomes more involved and she begins to fall deeply in love with Alex. She soon discovers that she is carrying his child and knowing that he can never offer her the love she so desires, she flees, only to be captured as a love slave in a harem. Alex begins his search and rescues Zena once more while in this erotic sensual captivity. As Zena is with him once more, he continues to take her in passion and lust while struggling with his hard heart and unrecognized feelings of love. Finally her family discovers the relationship and insists on a marriage, which causes further conflict as a marriage of convenience is anything but. This is not a story for the light romance reader. The sex scenes are intense and many times rough, as intense and rough as the emotional relationship between these two intensely passionate individuals, time and place. The story twists and turns and sweeps across Russia and the harems of Turkish sheikhs and beys while Alex fights his love for Zena. Zena continues to give into Alex time and again. Some readers may have problems coming to terms with the intense sex and Zena appearing weak, but in a period of history where women did not have much power, in this character's defense, Zena begins the story as a young, weak girl, who at the end becomes a strong woman winning the love of a man who seemed incapable of ever loving. The story is well-researched and developed, as the reader is swept away in the beauty and history of the Russian aristocracy. It is a pleasure to see this reissue of an epic erotic romance destined to be part of a new generation of romance collections.

Texas Rain

by Jodi Thomas

Jodi Thomas starts a new trilogy in her touching, in-depth style about the orphaned McMurray family and the McMurray Ranch. The handsome, rugged, half-breed Texas Ranger Travis McMurray returns home to the family ranch and takes his sister Sage to the local dance where he happens across who he feels is a " beautiful fairy" skulking around the edges of the dance. It is the runaway Rainey Adams, running from a harsh father and an arranged marriage in order to find a new life and identity out west. The last thing she feels she needs is to be tangled with a Texas Ranger. She steals Travis's horse and blends in with a wagon train heading west. When Travis follows, not only to retrieve his horse, but to discover the identity of the beauty he cannot seem to stop thinkig about, the wagon train is attacked and Travis is left seriously injured and unable to walk or ride properly. Rainey feels responsible for his injuries, but knows she cannot stay long enough to help. She flees once more and settles down in Austin where she continues to think about the handsome Texas Ranger and how he is recovering from his injuries. She decides to write him. Little does she know that she is also in Travis's thoughts and as he struggles with being a cripple, her letters become a source of strength to him. The pen pal relationship continues and once healed Travis decides to practice law and seeks Rainey out, only to have some past Ranger trouble follow him. The story is beautifully written with deep insight into the characters feelings and struggles. If you are a romance fan looking for a string of passionate love scenes, they are not here, although underlying passion is, but it is somewhat subdued and builds toward the end. The unspoken and unacted upon passion of the characters blend together with some mystery and murder in a story of such feeling that make this book hard to put down.

A Thief in a Kilt

by Sandy Blair

In this third Kilt Series we find the handsome "Thief of Hearts" Ian McKay taken in by desire, lust and confusion with the English beauty Kate Templeton who has come to the Scotish court looking for the Dowager Lady Campbell in disguise as a Campbell widow in order to obtain a list of noblemen that are true to the captured King James. Young King James is currently being held in an English prison for ransom and believes his countrymen have forgotten him. He is angry and is planning war between England and Scotland in order to hurt those noblemen who have forsaken him. Kate has been his tutor for years and is blackmailed into impersonating a Campbell to obtain information about the ransom. With Sandy Blair's unique writing style, this book will keep you laughing and wondering as to who the real "thief" actually is. As war looms with England and Scotland, Kate wants so very much to prevent it by bringing back the proof that King James does have his country's support. But the handsome, sexy Ian McKay is in Kate's way at every step and since he is a man of Lord Albany, who was supposed to have received the ransom note, but has not acted on it, she must flee his advances and discovery. She steals his horse and when he discovers she is not only a thief, but English and holding back on some secrets, he struggles with his physical desire for Kate and wanting to believe the secrets she holds are true. They work together to uncover the deception and in the process discover true love. Sandy Blair again has written a sexy and witty Scottish romp, with a little bit of mystery, that is fun to read for those who like a light Scottish Romance.

Touch Me With Fire

by Nicole Jordan

Touch Me With Fire is a story that blazes with passion and senuality, as the handsome and charasmatic Julian Morrow, Vicount Lynden pursues the beautiful violet eyed, raven haired, Blaise St. James. Julian, an injured war hero is now home from Spain struggling with not only the deep physical and emotional pains of war, but the struggles and rumors surrounding the death of his first wife, which originally caused him to run off and fight so far away from England. Upon his return home, he happens across young Blaise, dressed as a servant, as she is on the run from her guardians and an unwanted arranged marriage. Julian does not realize Blaise is a "lady" and wants her as his mistress. He offers to take her to her gypsy friends and there in the romantic setting of the gypsy camp pursues her with lust and passion that the young, innocent Blaise struggles with and does not truly understand. Under the guidance and love of her gypsy friends, which are like family to her, she begins to fall in love with Julian. While Julian knows he lusts for Blaise, he struggles with his true feelings of love, as he watches the young, kind, loving Blaise care for him and others in the gypsy camp. He sets many alluring passionate traps for Blaise, who is drawn to this handome, sexy, yet troubled man. Finally he can no longer wait and arranges to have her, only to be caught and discover that she is not truly his firey gyspy, but a "lady" of the ton. He feels betrayed and manipulated and Blaise is confused, as their troubled, sensual marriage begins and the mystery surrounding the death of Julian's first wife begins to unravel to a surprise ending. The book is well-written and researched with strong characters, deep mystery, inner emotional stuggles, passion, desire, and love scenes beautifully written that keep the reader riveted to the page. It was a pleasure to read this book the first time around and it was even more pleasurable to visit it again as a reissue.

Surrender to Sin

by Tamara Lejeune

Mix together scandal and ruin, desire and passion, mistaken identities, run down estates, thievery and even a bit of kidnapping and you are bound to have some fun. All I can say is that I laughed out loud so many times my family began to wonder what I was reading. This is a story guaranteed to tickle the funny bone of even the most stoic, as a passionate kiss in a wardrobe is mistaken for a bat fluttering in the face and a dog that likes to eat watches and parrots causes an all out search and arrest. Abigail Ritchie, the daughter of a rich merchant, is engaged to the horrible pompous Lord Dulwich. She breaks the engagement in scandal, as she is accused of replacing the diamonds in her engagement ring with paste. She remembers a brief run in with a handsome distant cousin who has a house to rent in Hertfordshire. Believing him to be married and safe, she flees London in disguise as Miss Smith in order to hide from the scandal. But she is not alone, as she is traveling with a hypochondriac and her chaperone, dog and parrot. Lord of the Manor, Cary Wayborn has no idea what is in store for him when Miss Smith and her party arrive. A storm has caused a tree to fall on the house they are to rent and they are forced to stay in his estate manor. Cary is drawn to the beautiful Miss Smith, who he recognizes from a bookshop in London, believing her to be some distant cousin. He desires her for her unique beauty and personality and when Abigail discovers him to not be married and is drawn to him as well, she eventually surrenders to one night of pleasure and sin. Cary offers her marriage and unexcpectedly, she rejects his offer and returns to London, but in her absence, there are several items of worth missing. Not wanting to believe she is a thief, he searches for the Miss Smith, not realizing she is really Abigail Ritchie. The real thieves are loose and want to get away by kidnapping her and blackmailing Abigail's rich father. In the meantime, Cary's sister and future brother-in-law get into the act with a broken engagement and mistaken identity with a group of actors that are all part of the theft. A real plot twister with a strange, unique cast of characters that is fun and sexy and does make you think why be good when being wicked can be so much more fun!

Scandalous Lovers

by Robin Schone

Fans of Robin Schone have been waiting patiently for her next release and with Scandalous Lovers it was worth the wait. In this beautifully written Victorian Romance a middle-aged widow and widower find more than passion, and discover that true ecstasy is obtained only when the heart is engaged. The country-bred Frances Hart has spent her forty-nine years as an obedient wife and perfect mother and grandmother. Upon her husband's death, she travels to London, changes her appearance by purchasing a lovely wardrobe and dying her hair, and finally obtains the freedom to see the sights and do whatever her heart desires without having to answer to anyone. During her outing at the famous Crystal Palace she looks for a water closet and instead enters a meeting room where The Men and Women's Club of London are meeting to discuss social, moral and philosophical views of Victorian Society. There she meets the handsome, over fifty year-old, barrister James Whitcox. He sees Frances, is immediately drawn to her, and longs to ask her the question he had never asked his wife before she passed away; "What does a woman desire?" and "Does a woman desire to touch a man?" Frances, never having been asked those questions by her husband, answers honestly and frankly. From there she is asked to join "the society" and she and James are drawn closer to each other and eventually come together in intense passion, ecstasy and love. This is a hauntingly beautiful story that is well-researched and written in one of the most romantic periods of history. The imagery of the beauty of the Victorian Era, together with the well-written passionate erotic love scenes, makes for an intense, descriptive, pleasurable read. The story is as intense as the love scenes and has a powerful ending. James defends a woman accused of murdering her husband with the dreaded disease of the time, syphilis. He then finds himself defending Frances, as her eldest son, David, upon discovering her affair with James, her attendance at The Society meetings and free life in London, attempts to get her committed to an asylum, as the family does not understand her newly found freedom, believing she is going through a woman's change and is hysterical. This is a romance written for the mature, experienced adult, comfortable with their sexuality. Very few writers have the capability to address mature love and sexual matters, but Robin Schone has done it in Scandalous Lovers to perfection. If you have the pleasure of real, true ecstasy in your life, you will come away from this book recognizing it and being thankful that you have it. If you had it and lost it, you will be plagued with fond memories of those moments. If you have not yet had the pleasure to find it, you will yearn for it. A hauntingly beautiful story destined to be on the bedside tables of many women to be read again and again for years to come.

How to Abduct a Highland Lord

by Karen Hawkins

Karen Hawkins delights fans of Scottish Romance once again in this first of a new series about the highland MacLean Family. Black Jack Kincaid had his roguish heart broken years ago when the beautiful green-eyed Fiona MacLean refused his offer of marriage. After years of drinking and wenching he wakes up from being drunk and unconscious on a road to London to discover he is now wed to Fiona. When her brother Callum is murdered and a Kincaid is blamed, Fiona has no choice but to abduct and marry this handsome auburn-haired, blue-eyed rogue in order to halt the MacLean-Kincaid life-long feud. After all, the MacLean's only power, other than their good looks, is the ability to make it rain and thunderstorm! When Jack is determined that his marriage will not affect his rogue lifestyle, he flees with Fiona to his London home in order to be in control of the relationship. Once there Fiona's beauty, passion, and kindness begins to warm Jack's cold heart. London experiences a stormy season as the MacLean brothers follow to make sure their little sister is happy in her new marriage. An ex-lover of Jack's who wants him back in her bed and a member of the Campbell family who wants revenge, get in the act to make trouble. When attempts on Fiona's life are made, Jack and Fiona return to Scotland, where the mystery of Callum's death and attempts on Fiona's life are unveiled. The story is sexy, witty, fast paced and pure regency highland fun!

The Mad, Bad Duke

by Jennifer Ashley

Jennifer Ashley superbly blended dreams of cinderella with sexy romance in her first fantasy about the Land of Nvengaria in Penelope & Prince Charming. In this sequel, Alexander, Grand Duke of Nvengaria, also known as The Mad Bad Duke is living in England, assigned to represent Nvengaria for his cousin, Prince Damien. All the ladies of London are chasing the dark, handsome, bad duke and want him in their beds. When Megan Tavistock meets her married friend Deirdre at Black Annie's home in order for Deirdre to receive a "lust charm" so that she can lure Alex into her bed, something goes wrong with the charm. When Megan holds the charm for Deirdre in her reticule so that Deirdre's husband does not discover it, it is only Megan that Alex lusts for upon first sight when he enters the ballroom. He takes her innocence at the ball and later insists upon marriage. Thinking that they only lust for each other due to the lust charm, Alex and Megan stuggle with their intense feelings of passion and desire. Nvengarians are naturally lustful people, but when Alex discovers he just happens to be half logosh, one of the magical beings of Nvengaria, his animal instincts become more intense during intense passion with Megan and he becomes concerned that he will harm her the more they are together. He fights his feelings of lust and love and his half logosh self. As their love grows the danger builds for the troubled Alex and Nvengaria. It is then up to Megan to help Alex realize that true love, not lust and a lust charm, will help him come to terms with his past, face his future, and help save Nvengaria. The Mad Bad Duke is a beautiful, magical, sensual story with the perfect blend of fantasy and romance that is difficult to put down.

A Little Bit Wicked

by Victoria Alexander

The first of four books in Victoria Alexander's new "Last Man Standing" Series begins with this first of four books about four of the ton's most eligible bachelors determined not to be snared into the trap of love and marriage. A little bit wicked and a little bit sexy, in this first installment we meet the handsome Gideon Pearsall, Viscount Wharton, who is attracted to the beautiful widow Judith, Lady Chester. She is scandalous enough for his tastes, as she chooses a particular gentleman for a companion, is not interested in marriage, and always ends up friends with each gentleman after each liason. What could be better for Gideon who is determined to be the "Last Man Standing," than to have this alluring beauty? He chases and teases her to be the next pick. Little did he count on falling in love with Judith, who is frightened of her growing feelings for Gideon and the loss of control she always has had in her relationships with gentlemen. Judith has her secret reason for wanting to remain single, even though on the surface it appears her first marriage was a love match. She fights her desire for Gideon as scandal builds that she cannot control. In the end these two passionate people who started out just wanting desire and passion realize they have also found love. In the style of Stephanie Lauren's Bastian Club, this book is sexy and fun; a real delight for romance fans who enjoy the regency period filled with rakes, rogues, beauties, gossip and like to read a romance that is just a little bit wicked.

Touch Me With Fire

by Nicole Jordan

Touch Me With Fire is a story that blazes with passion and senuality, as the handsome and charasmatic Julian Morrow, Vicount Lynden pursues the beautiful violet eyed, raven haired, Blaise St. James. Julian, an injured war hero is now home from Spain struggling with not only the deep physical and emotional pains of war, but the struggles and rumors surrounding the death of his first wife, which originally caused him to run off and fight so far away from England. Upon his return home, he happens across young Blaise, dressed as a servant, as she is on the run from her guardians and an unwanted arranged marriage. Julian does not realize Blaise is a "lady" and wants her as his mistress. He offers to take her to her gypsy friends and there in the romantic setting of the gypsy camp pursues her with lust and passion that the young, innocent Blaise struggles with and does not truly understand. Under the guidance and love of her gypsy friends, which are like family to her, she begins to fall in love with Julian. While Julian knows he lusts for Blaise, he struggles with his true feelings of love, as he watches the young, kind, loving Blaise care for him and others in the gypsy camp. He sets many alluring passionate traps for Blaise, who is drawn to this handome, sexy, yet troubled man. Finally he can no longer wait and arranges to have her, only to be caught and discover that she is not truly his firey gyspy, but a "lady" of the ton. He feels betrayed and manipulated and Blaise is confused, as their troubled, sensual marriage begins and the mystery surrounding the death of Julian's first wife begins to unravel to a surprise ending. The book is well-written and researched with strong characters, deep mystery, inner emotional stuggles, passion, desire, and love scenes beautifully written that keep the reader riveted to the page. It was a pleasure to read this book the first time around and it was even more pleasurable to visit it again as a reissue.