BookingIt

Posted By katie on January 29, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: The Birches

Leo is in cooking school and an absolute perfectionist, like his late mother, but his search for perfection comes at a cost to his friends and family.  When a friend introduces him to a popular restaurant, The Birches, Leo loves the food and can’t get the owner, Dock, out of his mind.  Not only is Dock intriguing, he isn’t a professional trained chef, which grates Leo’s nerves.  Can Leo lighten up or will all of his relationships crumble?

I love a great character study and The Birches delivers!

Leo is a difficult character to like.  Honestly, I never developed a soft spot for him.  His need for perfection made him unforgiving of not only himself, but also others.  In addition, he is a snob for the best food, best ingredients, best technique, best… everything.  I wanted to yell at him to lighten up!

Although I didn’t like Leo, I had an emotional response to him.  I felt as if I needed to slap some sense into him.  He frustrated me, but I still wanted to know how his story ended.

On the other hand, Dock is completely likable, easy going, and does what makes him happy.  I found the relationship between Dock and Leo a bit far fetched because these two characters seemed so different.  Honestly, I never quite got it, except for sharing their love of food.

Even though Leo made me want to pull out my hair and I didn’t completely understand his relationship with Dock, I liked The Birches.  The characters are intriguing, the story realistic and a bit kinky.  Recommended!

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  Seventh Window Publications
• Length:  Novella
• Release Date:  October 24, 2011

Buy from Amazon: The Birches

Book Description

Perfection isn’t everything, although it’s everything Leo wants. His desire to become the perfect chef may keep him at the top of his class, but it drives his friends and family crazy while keeping love and passion on the back burner. That is until he meets Dock, owner and chef of the new and popular restaurant, The Birches. Although Dock isn’t a trained chef, Leo finds the food he cooks delectable and the man behind the food irresistible. The lessons taught at the hands of an untrained cook may be just what this uptight chef needs to let go.

Posted By katie on January 27, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Lyrical

Peter is an average guy with social issues.  He listens to music throughout the day while at work to prevent interaction from his coworkers.  When the new girl, Chloe, is assigned a desk next to him, she isn’t deterred by Peter’s anti-social ways.  Will Peter let Chloe seduce him or will the interaction send him running?

I think most people will be able to relate to Peter, at least a little bit.  He uses the music as a barrier and a security blanket.  I know I’m guilty of doing this same thing at one point or another!  I loved how Chloe came along and would not take Peter’s less-than-subtle clues to leave him alone.  She either deserves a prize or she really likes a conquest.  In any case, she is much more likable than Peter, even if I had a soft spot for Peter by the end.

The plot is Chloe slowly seducing Peter, even when he doesn’t realize.  What I found most interesting is these two seemingly polar characters have many similarities. One scene is a bit odd at which Chloe decides point out his undesirable traits, but at the time, why she likes him.

Lyrical possess a touch of true life that many stories are missing.  Although I felt Chloe had to work a bit too hard, I enjoyed the story and both characters since they felt so incredibly real.

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  House of Erotica
• Pages:  33
• Release Date:  July 27, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Lyrical

Book Description

Living in a world of lyrics, she sings his song and he is powerless to resist. Peter is held back by a lack of self confidence and interacts with people as little as he can manage to get away with, that is until willowy Chloe is assigned the desk next to him, she has other ideas. Peter soon gives in to her siren song and lets Chloe seduce him but he just does not know how to deal with this beautiful woman and her lusts. Does Chloe have the patience to teach him to play in harmony with her natural sensuality or will he be forever doomed to a solitary life with only his music for comfort?

Posted By katie on January 25, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Body Temperature and Rising (Lakeland Heatwave)

First book in the Lakeland Heatwave

Marie, an American, had recently moved to England and had a voyeuristic experience while on a long walk in the woods.  But, her eyes may have deceived her, especially since Anderson, the man she saw in the woods, was actually a ghost.  Her encounter with Anderson led to a relationship with her neighboring witches who practiced sex magic.  Unfortunately, a demon named Deacon was accidently released and Marie, with the help of her witch neighbors and farmer neighbor Tim, must try to eliminate Deacon before innocent people die.

Starting in the first chapter, K.D. Grace delivers on hotness!

I liked how Marie had moved to England to live a different life, but she didn’t plan on her life being as abnormal as it became after meeting Anderson.  Her relationship with her neighbor Tim, the farmer, and the witches begins slowly.  The character backstory, if any, is very slow to happen for all the characters involved, except for Anderson and one of the witches, Tara.  Luckily, there is depth of character with Tim and another witch.  I craved more about Marie.

The plot is intriguing.  I especially liked the paranormal ghost aspect of the entire story.  Also, the plot weaves in a great deal of steaminess, which is for the most part necessary for the plot.  Since the story is rather complex, I felt there could have been a bit more focus on the plot and not the bedroom.

The defining moment in the plot happened quickly.  I hoped for a bit more set up, but I enjoyed how the story ended.  Crossing my fingers that there is more to come in this series and soon!

Body Temperature and Rising is steamy hot with an involved plot.  Although I hoped for a bit more character and plot development, the story is still very enjoyable and definitely showcases Ms. Grace’s erotic writing.  Definitely give this paranormal erotica a try!

BookingIt Grade:  B+

• Publisher:  Xcite
• Length:  Novel
• Release Date:  November 13, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Body Temperature and Rising (Lakeland Heatwave)

Book Description

First title in the Lakeland Heatwave, K.D. Grace’s paranormal erotic trilogy set in the Lake District.

Can the power of lust overcome deadly intentions? A voyeuristic encounter on the fells ends in sex with a charming ghost for American Marie Warren who realises she has the ability to unleash demons. Her powers bring her to a coven of witches who practise rare sex magic that allows ghosts access to pleasures of the flesh.

As ancient grudges unfold, Deacon, the demon Marie has unleashed will stop at nothing to destroy everything the coven’s high priestess holds dear, including Marie and her landlord, Tim Meriwether. Only the power of lust Marie and Tim share can stop Deacon before the coven is destroyed and innocent people die?

Posted By katie on January 22, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Dark Waters (Celtic Legacy Book 1)

Celtic Legacy #1

Quinn and Ashling are sisters with an incredible bond.  Quinn will do anything for her sister including fighting paranormal bad guys.  Then again, Quinn and her sister are special and part of a bigger prophecy.  Will they be able to win only a few battles or can they persevere against the war?

Quinn is an interesting character in that she supports her family through thick and thin, even if they haven’t supported her.  Enter Luke and Brees, two men that enter out of seemingly nowhere to help Quinn.  I adored the interplay between these two men, especially since they aren’t what they seem.  But, with Quinn and all the characters in the story, I yearned for more depth of character.  Why are the good guys good?  Why are the bad guys bad?  I did love the odd love triangle that develops and can’t what to see what happens.

The plot is completely intriguing, especially since Quinn has no idea what she has gotten into.  Unfortunately, I felt the story lacked that special catch that keeps the reader turning the pages.  Even though this novella is the first in a series, I wished for more plot resolution.  Honestly, I felt the story ended abruptly.

Dark Waters is a solid start to a novella series.  Quinn, Luke, Brees, and Ashling have promise to shine, even if I felt their growth was stunted during the short length of this novella.  If you’re in the mood for a novella about two, warring fae cultures, this is your book!  Honestly, I would recommend waiting to see what happens in the second installment before jumping into this new series.

BookingIt Grade:  B

• Publisher:  Amazon
• Length:  Novella
• Release Date:  December 2011

Buy from Amazon: Dark Waters (Celtic Legacy Book 1)

Book Description

Two sisters.
A legendary prophecy.
Monsters, magic, deception and sensuality.
Be prepared to dive into Dark Waters!

Posted By katie on January 18, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: The Flight of Gemma Hardy: A Novel

Gemma has had a tremulous life.  After the death of her father, she is moved from Iceland to Scotland to live with her uncle and aunt.  When he uncle dies, she discovers she is unwelcome in her home.  Luckily, she receives a scholarship to a boarding school, but is nothing more than a servant.  When the school closes, Gemma takes the first job she finds:  an au pair position to a reclusive 8 year-old girl on a remote island to a home with a mysterious, handsome, rich man, Mr. Sinclair.  Although she has lived a hard life, Gemma realizes that her adventure has just begun.

The Flight of Gemma Hardy is a new telling of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre (one of my favorite novels).  Although the story begins similar to that of Bronte’s classic, Gemma Hardy becomes its own, shining novel.  Don’t think the Gemma Hardy is simply a modern remake of Jane Eyre because at the point the classic novel ends, Gemma’s story begins.

Set in the 1950s and 1960s Scotland, Gemma has more hardship than expected.  Her aunt hates her and her school is horrific.  This background of horribleness is necessary to understand Gemma as she accepts her first paying position as an au pair.  Luckily, through this entire time, Gemma is growing and becoming her own person.  Then, she meets her new boss, Mr. Sinclair.

Mr. Sinclair and Mr. Rochester (from Bronte’s novels) are similar characters except Rochester has a more haunted, secretive past.  Sinclair is much more realistic and modern.  I’m glad to see the changes in this main character because I felt much more sympathy for him.  Unfortunately, my sympathy for Sinclair made me dislike Gemma.

Gemma is a difficult character.  As a young girl, she is easily pitied, but as she grows older, her impertinence and unyielding nature are hard to like.  Although she makes much of her own problems as an adult, I am glad to see there are some ramifications for her actions.  Thankfully, she does become more likable towards the end when she learns some very valuable lessons about life.  Most importantly, I enjoy watching her grow.

The Flight of Gemma Hardy is a re-telling of Jane Eyre.  Fans of Bronte’s classic novel will definitely want to pick up this book, but those unfamiliar with the tale will surely be won over by Gemma’s remarkable coming of age story.

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  Harper
• Pages:  464
• Release Date:  January 24, 2011

Buy from Amazon: The Flight of Gemma Hardy: A Novel

Book Description

When her widower father drowns at sea, Gemma Hardy is taken from her native Iceland to Scotland to live with her kind uncle and his family. But the death of her doting guardian leaves Gemma under the care of her resentful aunt, and it soon becomes clear that she is nothing more than an unwelcome guest at Yew House. When she receives a scholarship to a private school, ten-year-old Gemma believes she’s found the perfect solution and eagerly sets out again to a new home. However, at Claypoole she finds herself treated as an unpaid servant.

To Gemma’s delight, the school goes bankrupt, and she takes a job as an au pair on the Orkney Islands. The remote Blackbird Hall belongs to Mr. Sinclair, a London businessman; his eight-year-old niece is Gemma’s charge. Even before their first meeting, Gemma is, like everyone on the island, intrigued by Mr. Sinclair. Rich (by Gemma’s standards), single, flying in from London when he pleases, Hugh Sinclair fills the house with life. An unlikely couple, the two are drawn to each other, but Gemma’s biggest trial is about to begin: a journey of passion and betrayal, redemption and discovery, that will lead her to a life of which she’s never dreamed.

Set in Scotland and Iceland in the 1950s and ’60s, The Flight of Gemma Hardy—a captivating homage to Charlotte BrontË’s Jane Eyre—is a sweeping saga that resurrects the timeless themes of the original but is destined to become a classic all its own.

Posted By katie on January 15, 2012

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Immortal Rider

Book #2 in Lords of Deliverance Series (a continuation of the Demonica Series)

Arik took a chance and kissed the one female Horseman of the Apocalypse, Limos.  He didn’t realize a simply kiss would lead to such catastrophic events.  The apocalypse is looming and everything seems to be falling apart, especially any hope of a relationship with Limos.

Don’t be fooled.  The beginning of this book seems like it is only about Limos and Arik’s relationship with a little bit of Pestilence on the side.  But, wow, there is so much more happening in this book!

Limos was a big, fat liar.  Having been raised by demons and is betrothed to Satan, lying was status quo and gives her a big thrill.  I adored watching her about-face and realizing the enormous consequences of her lying.  Luckily, she had a fantastic guy by her side:  Arik.  He went through Hell and back, literally, to be by her side.  Like Limos, Arik had a dark past that is evident in his decisions.  Together, Limos and Arik had an unusual relationship that was both steamy yet sweet.  Definitely interesting!

The plot for the entire series moved forward with astounding speed.  Limos’ brother Horseman, Pestilence, was still a pest (uh hem!)  Plus, the good guys seemed to be losing the war, even if they won a few battles here and there.  I loved how there is a fine line between good and evil where even both sides of the war have a difficult time telling where the line stands.  Generally, I found the plot to be a bit uneven where portions were slow and others were incredibly fast.  Luckily, right as I was becoming bored with one section of the story, the plot moved forward.

I liked the relationship between Arik and Limos, but my favorite part was the budding relationship between Thanatos and Regan.  I can’t wait to read about their book, coming next in the series.   Honestly, I felt this book simply featured the beginning of Thanatos and Regan where Limos and Arik happened to star.

Fans of Larissa Ione will adore Immortal Rider!  Arik and Limos have a very interesting story, but I felt this entire book was set up for the next story featuring Thanatos and Regan.  The book is definitely worth the read, but don’t expect anything earth shattering.  No, that will be the next book Lethal Rider.  Can’t wait for more!

BookingIt Grade:  B+

• Publisher:  Grand Central Publishing
• Pages:  414
• Release Date:  November 22, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Immortal Rider

Book Description

They are here. They ride. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Arik Wagner, a soldier with the U.S. Army’s paranormal unit, the R-XR, kissed a girl and liked it. And then he went to hell as punishment. Where he’s spent weeks being tortured…and plotting revenge.

Limos, Horsewoman of the Apocalypse, isn’t your average girl. She’s immortal, dangerous, and her fiancé is Satan himself. In a moment of weakness, she gave in to her desire and kissed Arik, triggering her fiancé’s wrath – and his claim on her. In order to save Arik, and the world, Limos must make a dangerous pact with her recently turned evil brother, Pestilence. A deal that might just cost her her soul…and her heart.

Posted By katie on January 11, 2012

Buy from Amazon: Live Wire (Elite Ops)

Elite Ops #6 Series (a continuation of the SEALs series)

With the disbanding of the Elite Ops, Tehya doesn’t know where to go.  Plus, her relationship with the team leader, Jordan, became extremely complicated.  When her past comes to haunt her, Jordan is there to protect (or maybe get in the way) as well as her old Elite Ops team.  Will she be able to finally put her past behind her?

The much anticipated story about Jordan has finally arrived!

Jordan has commitment issues, especially when it comes to Tehya.  From the moment she entered his life she turned him upside down.  Throughout the years Jordan has worked closely with Tehya, the attraction has only grown.  I liked how Tehya gives Jordan a run for his money, especially with her complicated past that shows its dirty face.  Tehya has a very dark past, but I didn’t quite understand it.  Her family is extremely wealthy, yet her mother still was kidnapped to be a sex slave, but didn’t run away back to her family with the means to protect her?  Even though Tehya’s backstory made me scratch my head, at least she had a logical explanation for her actions.  Jordan did not have any reason for him acting the way he did, except for a family “curse”, which has been explored in previous books in the series.

The plot takes a very long time to get started.  At first, the story is Jordan and Tehya, but they already had a relationship.  So, I felt their story was about them jumping into the bed.  Multiple times.  Just when I was about ready to give up on the book, the plot begins with a bang.  Then, the story stagnates again, but there is some character development.  Rinse.  Repeat.  Overall, I found the plot uneven and the pacing at which the characters develop is erratic and too late.

Live Wire had promise, especially with Tehya’s dark past.  Unfortunately, Tehya’s past is a bit muddled and Jordan doesn’t have much motivation for his actions.  Add in an oddly paced plot that is full of too-little-too-late action and character development, I found Live Wire to be the weakest book in the series.  Definitely pass.

BookingIt Grade:  D+

• Publisher:  St. Martin’s
• Pages:  384
• Release Date:  March 1, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Live Wire (Elite Ops)

Book Description

Meet Captain Jordan Malone. For years he has been a silent warrior and guardian, operating independent of government protocol or oversight, leading his loyal team of Elite Ops agents to fight terror at all costs. A legend in the field, Jordan’s true identity has remained a mystery even to his own men…until now.

Tehya Talamosi, codename Enigma, is a force to be reckoned with. A woman this striking spells nothing but trouble for Jordan. Armed with killer secrets—and body to die for—she’ll bring Jordan to his knees as they both take on the most deadly mission they have ever faced. Because this time, it’s personal…

Posted By katie on January 4, 2012

Buy from Amazon: Sweet Possession

Sweet Series #5

Connor has a new security assignment guarding the over-the-top, wild pop star Lyric Jones.  He doesn’t want the job and dislikes her from the start, except he can’t get enough of her smart mouth.  Will Connor be able to stay professional and protect Lyric from a stalker or will she burrow under his skin?

Connor seems to be an average, good guy with a great job, friends, and family.  I liked how his life is opposite of Lyric’s, with her crazy schedule and non-friends.  Where Connor is close to a handful of great people, Lyric is completely alone even though many people surround her constantly.

I found the relationship between Connor and Lyric odd since these two are so very different.  Plus, Connor is not very nice to Lyric, yet still wants her.  Luckily, Connor comes to her rescue a few times and is the first to defend Lyric, adding much needed points for team Connor.  The relationship does progress realistically, especially when Lyric has trust issues.

The plot is the relationship between Connor and Lyric, with a stalker twist that is purely a plot device.  Generally, the pacing is smooth.  I found the ending turmoil to be a bit forced, but I still liked the turn of events.  I had a slight issue with the writing since the book is written in the perspectives of Connor and Lyric yet their voices were similar.  For example, both characters use the phrase “[someone] is going to have a kitten”.  In my opinion, this is a colloquialism that may be special to one of the characters, especially since Connor and Lyric are from two different environments.

Sweet Possession is an intriguing story, but doesn’t seem to fit into this strongly sexual series since Connor and Lyric are so normal.  Also, I believe Sweet Possession is the weakest in a series full of outstanding works, which is hard to live up to.  Luckily, this book is purely Maya Banks and everything her fans are expecting, even if the main characters are a bit tame in the bedroom.

BookingIt Grade:  B

• Publisher:  Berkley
• Pages:  310
• Release Date:  April 5, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Sweet Possession

Book Description

here is nothing Connor Malone wants to do less than babysit the outrageous and out-of-control pop star Lyric Jones. But part of him relishes taming the celebratty songstress and showing her what it’s like to be possessed-body and soul-by one man. And though Lyric’s crazy antics nearly drive Connor to the edge, his quiet intensity penetrates her defenses, leaving them both vulnerable to the secrets that could topple Lyric from the stage.

Posted By katie on January 2, 2012

Buy from Amazon: Alpha (The Shifters)

Last book (#6) in the Shifters (werecat) series

Faythe and her werecat pride are still recovering from the previous books, especially the rule of the tyrant Calvin Malone.  Plus, her personal life is in shambles where she cannot chose between Jace and Marc.  Will she be able to influence the direction of her life and that of her pride?  Can she choose between the two men she loves?

Alpha starts almost immediately after the happenings of Shift, the previous installment.  Faythe is still struggling with loss and the inability to chose between Jace and Marc.  Throughout the series, I felt as if Faythe had not grown much as a character and only seemed to dig deeper holes for herself.  Hence, I was interested to see how she would develop in this last book.  Luckily, she does mature as a character, but only when significantly forced to do so and the choices she must make seem rather obvious.  Thankfully, other characters force their hand (and Faythe’s) and require a reciprocal action by Faythe (especially one, big move by a main character at the end.  Finally!)

The plot moves very quickly.  Although parts of the story were expected, the heartbreak is still strong.  Faythe annoys me, but I found it difficult not to be emotionally attached to the story.  I not only cried, I was frustrated with the turn of the events, just as the characters were.  The ending came quickly and I wished there was more plot resolution.  Instead, the series finishes such that another book (or series?) could follow.

Alpha is definitely a must read for those following the Shifter series.  Generally, the plot has no surprises, but the story is still great to read.  The characters remain consistent (for better or for worse) and their stories remain open ended.  I expect we haven’t seen the last of the werecats, but I hope any subsequent books choose another character to follow or not focus solely on Faythe.  With that said, Alpha is everything that the readers expected out of the book, complete with heartbreak, battles, and the all important love triangle.

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  Mira
• Pages:  477
• Release Date:  October 1, 2010

Buy from Amazon: Alpha (The Shifters)

Book Description

The unscrupulous new Council chair has charged Jace, Marc and me with trespassing, kidnapping, murder and treason. Yeah, we’ve been busy. But now it’s time to take justice into our own hands. We must avenge my brother’s death and carve out the rot at the heart of the Council.

It’s not going to be easy, and loss seems unavoidable, but I have promised to protect my Pride, no matter what. With a target on my back and Marc at my side, I’m heading for a final showdown that can—that will—change everything forever. A showdown I’m not sure I’m ready for.

But life never waits until you’re ready.

Posted By katie on December 31, 2011

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Forever and a Day (The Rumor)

First novel in The Rumor series (be sure to read the short story prequel, linked here).

Georgia is a young widow and one of the heads of the notorious Forty Thieves gang in New York.  Life is hard, but she has plans to move west to begin a new life.  A mysterious gentleman courts her on the street and then rushes to her aide when a thief steals her bag.  Unfortunately, the gentleman is struck by a carriage and subsequently forgets everything, including his identity.  Georgia takes him in to her humble home while they discover who he is, but she didn’t expect to fall for him.  But, when he regains his memory, will he choose her or return to his gilded life?

What a fantastic book!

From the first chapter, I adored Georgia for her grit and smarts.  She stands up for what she believes in, works hard, and is a remarkable woman, especially for taking in a strange man with no memory.  Plus, her past hardships and happiness definitely shape her character.  The mysterious man (aka Robinson) is an interesting character.  For over half of the book, we do not know who he is except through his interactions with Georgia.  He is considerate, intelligent, and generally a nice guy.  Honestly, it is difficult to not like him.

The plot is the story between Georgia and Robinson.  Also, there is an arcing storyline (introduced in the prequel short story Forever Mine), which plays an important role in the latter half of the novel.  The pacing is perfect, except for the abrupt ending.  Truthfully, I did not like the ending and wished the story were a few chapters longer.

Forever and a Day is not your average historical romance, with a rough-around-the-edges heroine and a hero without an identity.  Their interactions are great and highlight how these two characters, which seem very different, are actually very similar.  Throw in a hefty helping of romance, an old family scandal, and quirky storytelling and Forever and a Day makes a name for itself in a genre that is, at times, very stuffy.  I think Ms. Marvelle’s works, especially this new series, will appeal to anyone that loves romance and is definitely not to be missed!

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  HQN
• Pages:  384
• Release Date:  December 20, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Forever and a Day (The Rumor)

Book Description

Roderick Gideon Tremayne, the recently appointed Duke of Wentworth, never expected to find himself in New York City, tracking down a mysterious map important to his late mother. And he certainly never expected to be injured, only to wake up with no memory of who he is. But when he sees the fiery-haired beauty who’s taken it upon herself to rescue him, suddenly his memory is the last thing on his mind.

Georgia Milton, the young head of New York’s notorious Forty Thieves, feels responsible for the man who was trying to save her bag from a thief. But she’s not prepared for the fierce passion he ignites within her. When his memory begins to return, her whole world is threatened, and Roderick must choose between the life he forgot and the life he never knew existed.…

Posted By katie on December 29, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Forever Mine (The Rumor Series)

Prequel short story to the Rumor Series (highly recommended to read first!)

Lady Augustine is in a difficult situation with pressure to marry; yet the secrets surrounding her family prevent her from wanting to enter into a relationship.  But, the Duke of Wentworth has other ideas and won’t take no for an answer since Augustine is the first woman to strike his fancy since the death of his previous wife.

My heart immediately went out to Augustine because she yearns for a husband, but is haunted by the memory of her kidnapped younger brother.  Her story is sad, yet her perseverance is admirable.  Then there is the Duke of Wentworth who also has had his share of heartache.  I loved watching how their sad histories brought these two characters together.  Plus, it is incredibly hard not to fall for the dashing Duke.

The plot of this short story sets up the arc for the entire Rumor Series:  the disappearance of Augustine’s brother.  The story reads very quickly and I was sad for it to end!  Luckily, the next, full novel installment, Forever and a Day, is available for instant gratification.

Delilah Marvelle scores again with the beginning of a new historical series that is sure to please lovers of the genre!  I highly recommend reading this short before jumping into the Rumor series.

BookingIt Grade:  A

• Publisher:  HQN
• Pages:  70
• Release Date:  December 1, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Forever Mine (The Rumor Series)

Book Description

London, 1802

Lady Augustine Jane Ascott longs for a man who will do more than offer his hand in marriage. She wants a husband she can trust, someone who will shield her from the darkness of the world. Her heart was broken when her little brother was kidnapped years earlier, and she still carries the pain of his loss.

When the handsome Duke of Wentworth makes his feelings for her known, Augustine’s past demons warn her away. Besides, every woman in London knows he’s devoted to the memory of his late wife. But is it possible he cares for her after all—and that their love can bring them the peace they both crave?

From the Author

Dear Reader,
In this Prequel, you will be introduced to a series of events that will drag you steadily closer to the truth behind a most ominous rumor.  Rumor has it that in the year of 1800, a ten year old boy, British heir to the Sumner estate disappeared in New York City & was never seen again.  Rumor also has it that 30 years later, details pertaining to his disappearance have resurfaced right along with the heir himself.  What will it lead to?
Only you, the reader, will ever know.
Delilah Marvelle

Posted By katie on December 27, 2011

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Lady of the Drake

Lana is the medicine woman of her village, which is one of many villages with the plague.  She heads into the Ashen Forest, occupied by the elusive dragons, to find a cure.  She didn’t expect to find Alaron, the Keeper of the Forest, and be swept into a new world filled with magic.

Lana’s story begins well, especially with a very interesting tryst with Alaron.  Her motivations are clear in the first half of the book and I thoroughly enjoyed her story.  Alaron is everything that is mysterious and he does come clean about his identity early in the book.  Honestly, I found his character to be rather flat and lacking the many dimensions I crave in main characters.

The plot grabbed me when Lana and Alaron first meet.  I loved watching them interact and her discovery of him.  Strangely, I felt the first plot ended about half way through and then a second muddled plot took precedence.  At this point, a human king enters the story.  Is he good or bad?  Honestly, I never could tell.  Also, I felt Lana lost her clear character motivation.  Why the drastic plunge into her education of Alaron’s world?  Then, I pondered the ending, finding it very drastic.  I wish this short novel were actually two separate stories:  Lana meeting Alaron and then everything that happened after.  I feel that the second half of the book really needed more details, instead I felt this portion of the plot was rushed, attention skipped during important times, and too much focus on intimate happenings between characters.

Lady of the Drake started with a fantastic bang, but the big beginning fades.  I liked the characters and the premise, but a lack of details as well as character motivations in the latter half of the book left me confused.  By the end, I was completely disenchanted and had a difficult time finishing the book.

BookingIt Grade:  C-

• Publisher:  Ravenous Romance
• Length:  Short novel
• Release Date:  October 25, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Lady of the Drake

Book Description

Lana’s village is being consumed by a devastating plague. The last hope for a cure lies in a forbidden forest claimed by dragons.

 
Deep in the woods she finds a breathtaking realm of sorcery and untamed passion. Alaron, the seductive keeper of the forest, offers what she seeks and more.

 
She’s swept up in the mysterious keeper’s world of secrets, lust and magic; but the entire kingdom is dying–and there may be no way to save it!

Posted By katie on December 21, 2011

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Claimed

Second book in the series

Emma is a scientist who was captured by the evil Kurjans, a vampire-like race, but the King of the Realms and good vampire named Dage, rescues her.  At first glance, Emma knows that she has been having visions of Dage all of her life.  As a deadly virus attacks the vampire’s mates, Emma focuses on finding a cure, but she doesn’t realize how distracting Dage would be, especially since he insists that she is his mate.

Claimed will grab your attention on the first page!

Emma is an interesting character with an incredible amount of depth.  I loved how her past definitely influences her motivations, especially concerning Dage.  I found her character a bit inconsistent, though.  Dage is more consistent than Emma, but lacks the past motivations and overall depth.  Generally, I found him a really great leader, but a bit overwhelming in the bedroom.  Actually, he made me a little uncomfortable, especially since Emma voiced her reluctance.

The story begins with a bang!  Then, the plot continues to charge ahead, adding various characters and issues that keep the pages turning.  Several of the other characters (Jase, Caleb, Lily) I’m desperate to know their stories!  Unfortunately, I found much of the scientific lingo and timeline both corny and unrealistic.  Honestly, this is my own issue since I am a scientist during the day, but I understand that the plot must move forward.

I enjoyed Claimed and look forward to the next installment!  I did not read the one previous book in the series and I did not feel lost or left out of the loop.  So, jump into this series!  I can’t wait for the next book.

BookingIt Grade:  B+

• Publisher:  Brava
• Pages:  332
• Release Date:  November 1, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Claimed

Book Description

A Daring Rescue: Emma Paulsen is a geneticist driven by science. But she’s also a psychic, so when a dark, good-hearted vampire frees her from the clutches of the evil Kurjans, she realizes he must be the man who’s been haunting her dreams. But with a virus threatening vampires’ mates, Emma may discover a whole new meaning of “lovesick”…A Deadly Decision: As King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs has learned to practice diplomacy. Still, it’s taken three hundred years to find his mate, so he’ll stop at nothing to protect her – even if it means turning his back on his own kind…

Posted By katie on December 19, 2011

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: The 18th Floor

Alexa works too much and she is attracted to her coworker Sebastian.  An early morning tryst in the conference room jump starts a steamy relationship between these two, but will Sebastian’s preferences in the bedroom be too much for Alexa to handle?

Wow, Alexa and Sebastian are HOT.

Alexa is definitely in a rut with both her personal and working life.  I liked how the loud neighbors solidify this trait.  Sebastian entered the book very early and seems the very opposite of Alexa:  laid back, self-assured, and have some sort of life outside of work.

Their relationship began fast and furious with a big helping of danger.  They pushed the comfort zones of each other, but especially Alexa being pushed by Sebastian.  The best part is when Alexa had reasons for her reluctance, which plays a direct role in the ending of this novella.  Luckily, we learn some of Alexa’s past, but I craved to know more about Sebastian.

The 18^th Floor is smoking hot.  Alexa and Sebastian compliment each other, but I wished for more relationship building and more character depth.  With that said, if you’re in the mood for a steamy book with somewhat unusual situations, definitely pick up The 18^th Floor.

BookingIt Grade:  A-

• Publisher:  Sizzler Editions
• Pages:  90
• Release Date:  August 22, 2011

Buy from Amazon: The 18th Floor

Book Description

Alexa Robbins is so consumed by her career, the only sex she has is listening to her nymphomaniac neighbors go at it. When Sebastian Law discovers her in the eighteenth floor conference room early one morning, the table becomes a pallet for making one of her fantasies come true. Will he enjoy her extensive repertoire of fantasies? On the outside, Sebastian appears a buttoned-up, well-dressed, techno geek. Inside, he’s a Dom with a hearty appetite for all types of carnal pleasures. He risks alienating Alexa by revealing his true nature, but he won’t keep the secret for long. Together, they explore all the things that turn them on. And discover whether they’re a perfect match for life beyond the 18th Floor.

Posted By katie on December 14, 2011

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Buy from Amazon: Lord of the Abyss

Book #4 in the Royal House of Shadows series

The Lord of the Abyss is a frightening man in dark, magical armor.  Liliana escapes her father and runs to the Lord of the Abyss, Micah, to save herself and all of Elden.  She didn’t expect for the mysterious Micah to pull at her heartstrings and be so tempting.

Lord of the Abyss is the best book in the Royal House of Shadows series!

The story begins, and mainly follows, Liliana.  She is the daughter of the horrific blood sorcerer who killed the King and Queen of Elden, Micah’s parents.  A blood sorcerer herself, I liked how Liliana knows who Micah is and feels like she must help him return to Elden at just the right time.  Even more endearing is that she is not pretty and extremely caring, even when she’s at her most unfortunate.  Plus, she doesn’t have any trouble standing up to the dark, gorgeous, and scary Lord of the Abyss, Micah.

On the other hand, Micah is lonely and frightens most people since he is Lord of the Abyss, a land similar to Hell.  Interestingly, he only has flashes of his former life as a young prince of Elden, but no real memories. I loved this small bit of vulnerability in a man that literally wears armor.  Plus, he has a thing for Liliana, which extends past physical.

Both Liliana and Micah are fabulous, deep characters that are sure to dear any reader.  Their stories are both emotional and completely intriguing.

The plot focuses on Liliana and Micah, but the story is much more than just these two characters.  The other stories in of the series are important in that they represent Micah’s siblings, but those backstories do not play a role in any part of this book.  Honestly, I wished there was a bit more of the previous characters at the climax of the book.  Luckily, the epilogue does a good job of settling any nagging wistfulness of what could have been.

The Lord of the Abyss is by far the best installment in the Royal House of Shadows series.  The characters have remarkable depth, their stories emotional, and the plot moves both their lives forward as well as the main arc of the entire series.  Simply wonderful!

BookingIt Grade:  A

• Publisher:  Harlequin
• Pages:  288
• Release Date:  November 15, 2011

Buy from Amazon: Lord of the Abyss

Book Description

Once upon a time…the Blood Sorcerer vanquished the kingdom of Elden. To save their children, the queen scattered them to safety and the king filled them with vengeance. Only a magical timepiece connects the four royal heirs…and time is running out.…

As the dark Lord who condemns souls to damnation in the Abyss, Micah is nothing but a feared monster wrapped in impenetrable black armor. He has no idea he is the last heir of Elden, its last hope. Only one woman knows—the daughter of his enemy.

Liliana is nothing like her father, the Blood Sorcerer who’d cursed Micah. She sees past Micah’s armor to the prince inside. A prince whose sinful touch she craves. But first she has to brave his dark, dangerous lair and help him remember.

Because they only have till midnight to save Elden.