Romance Book Review of Scandal with a Sinful Scot (Men of Wollstonecraft Hall #2) by Karyn Gerrard

Title: Scandal with a Sinful Scot (Men of Wollstonecraft Hall #2)  Karyn Gerrard 
Author: Karyn Gerrard 

Source: NetGalley

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Lenght: Novel

Reviewed by: Laurie

Rating: 3
Sexual: 3

“You must lock away your heart at all costs.”

Falling in love was the darkest moment of Garrett Wollstonecraft’s privileged youth, even as he and Abigail Hughes shared a blissful summer of passionate promise. Sworn to keep Abigail safe from the curse plaguing generations of Wollstonecraft men, Garrett sacrificed his future happiness. Now, fourteen years after he lost his heart, Abigail reenters his life. But the woman who arrives unannounced at his ancestral manor is very different from the sheltered girl Garrett once knew.

The widow of a country doctor, Abigail can’t forgive Garrett for his cruel rejection. Yet she can no longer keep the truth from him—a secret that could have resulted in her ruin. But as the embers of desire reignite, and Abigail and Garrett slowly rebuild trust, a malicious enemy plots against them. Is their love strong enough to break free from the sins of the past—and to end the tragic cycle that consigns Garrett to a life of loneliness?

I enjoyed the first two books in Karyn Garrard Men of Wollstonecraft Hall series, but this one fell short for me, but again you can’t love them all.

I am just going to pull the bandage right off and get right into this books drawback. The first and biggest drawback for me was both Garrett and Abigail cannot seem to forgive each other and so this means these two keep bring up the same thing that broke them up so many years ago and it got to be dreadful reading it time and time again. The other drawback for me was, I felt like these two never really rekindled that spark to reconnect. After years of separation she brings herself to face him and then before you know it, they were hopping like rabbits I just didn’t feel the connection that would bring them together after all of the years, especially with the fact both Garrett and Abigail, has such a hard time getting over the fact of Garrett just dumping and that she never came running to him all those years ago. The last downside for me is I really wished this series would focus a bit more on the curse that is on the family, and how they are going to find out how to solve the curse for these men.

This story does give you a glimpse into future books with other characters in the story so, you have something to look forward to, I know I am looking forward to the next book. 

Lover Mine by J.R. Ward

Title: Lover Mine (Black Dagger Brotherhood #8)

Author: J.R. Ward

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Length: 528 pages

Publisher: NAL

Release Date: April 27, 2010

Source: Purchased (Audiobook)

Reviewed by: Jasmyn

John Matthew has come a long way since he was found living among humans, his vampire nature unknown to himself and to those around him. After he was taken in by the Brotherhood, no one could guess what his true history was- or his true identity. Indeed, the fallen Brother Darius has returned, but with a different face and a very different destiny. As a vicious personal vendetta takes John into the heart of the war, he will need to call up on both who he is now and who he once was in order to face off against evil incarnate.

Xhex, a symphath assassin, has long steeled herself against the attraction between her and John Matthew. Having already lost one lover to madness, she will not allow the male of worth to fall prey to the darkness of her twisted life. When fate intervenes, however, the two discover that love, like destiny, is inevitable between soul mates.

**********

John Mattew is quite an intriguing character to me. His mysterious background, his strange link to Darius, and the bond he has with Bella all made him really stand out among the strong characters in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Since then, he's grown into quite the vampire and fighter, but not quite fully finding his place yet.

Xhex is one of the physically strongest females we've seen in the series and I love how she just doesn't take any crap from anyone. One of my biggest overall complaints about the series is the lack of recurring female characters. Yes, the shellens pop up from time to time, but I thought Xhex had real potential to be part of the team and give the series a female character that is more than just a utility. We see a lot of her potential and strength showcased during her ordeal and recovery from Lash.

Tons of things happening in the background including a bombshell with Payne. Blay and Qhuinn continue to tip-toe around each other, but with the addition of Saxon and Layla to the scene things might just be reaching their tipping point. 

The fight with the Lessers continues and on one hand, I really enjoy the continuity this brings to the series, but I'm also sort of hoping that a new "bad guy" will pop up and really add some twists and turns. 

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Esmeralda and the Second-Hand Suitor by Hebby Roman

Title: Esmeralda and the Second-Hand Suitor (Snowbirds #2)

Author: Hebby Roman

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 189 pages

Publisher: Estrella Publishing

Release Date: March 12, 2016

Reviewed by: Jasmyn

What’s a forty-year-old virgin doing in a predicament like this? Looking for a husband because her late father’s will decrees she must marry or forfeit her orchard, her only means of support. Hank McCall, as a perspective husband, leaves a great deal to be desired—he’s twice divorced and older than Esmeralda. Scarred by their pasts and challenged by the gap in their ages, Esmeralda and Hank struggle with their new-found relationship. But when Hank is faced with losing Esmeralda or surrendering to her yearning to have a real family, their fates hang in the balance. 

**********

Esmeralda and the Second-Hand Suitor was a cute story. At times a little unbelievable, but other times incredibly down to earth. It was also quite refreshing to see an older couple portrayed as....asn older couple. I know, crazy right? Esmeralda and Hank are both over 40 and living real life with real life problems. Divorce, paying bills, meeting people, family drama, and wondering if it's even worth looking anymore.

Esmeralda was a bit on the unbelievable side for me. A little too much of her character seemed to be determined by what would help the story work better. She's a virgin - which I know can still happen - but let's be honest. It isn't very likely anymore. She can only have her inheritance if she's married - because her father is a chauvanistic jerk - which I am more inclined to believe, but it still seems far-fetched. Especially to have all these things fall on one person's shoulders.

Hank is a divorced, fighting to keep enough from his recent ex so that he can retire in peace, and is really and truly going through what seems to be a mid-life crisis. Flying south to spend some time away from it all, he meets Esmerelda, and they are both faced with some serious adult-like problems (such a refreshing prospect).

This book dealt with real-life people facing real-life issues that would (mostly) affect any one of us that is no longer hovering in that 20-something age group. I really enjoyed seeing an older couple than I usually see in a romance with experiences and personalities that fit them well. 

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Review Secrets of Desire by LK Shaw

Title: Secrets of Desire 

Author: LK Shaw 

Genre: Contemporary Romance 

Reviewed by: Laurie

Rating: 3 1/2

Sexual rating 3

When secrets surface…

Bridget Carter seems to have the perfect life. She’s happily single and has a career she loves as a fashion designer at a local boutique. She enjoys playing at Club Eden and bounces from one Dominant to another. She’s not looking for love, even though she’s more than intrigued by Connor Black. When a secret from Bridget’s past surfaces, Bridget and Connor are forced to work together to protect an innocent.


The battle begins…

Scarred inside and out, Connor Black fights to protect those who can’t protect themselves. He also hides behind a mask of confidence. Battling against his own insecurities, he secretly envies the boldness Bridget exudes. He watches her with a look of longing he thinks he’s kept hidden. And when Bridget comes to him for help, he realizes he can no longer keep his desire secret. But an enemy is ready to strike and Connor must battle his inner demons to protect the people he is coming to love.

Review

Shaw does any amazing job creating a standalone, for any series, I have to read in order freak, like me.  I didn’t feel like I was missing anything. Kudos.

The characters are really great, but I could have used more background on Bridget, I didn’t feel like I got to really know her as much as I did Connor. They are both lovable, not annoying in any way.

The downside to me was, the book is very predictable. I am not going to host any spoilers, but the connection between Conner and the kid was just too similar, I could see where it was all going to lead to and I could tell what the villain was going to do with the heroine before it happened.

It would have been wonderful if the villain had his POV. He got one tiny paragraph which didn’t help me fully feel the whole connection like I would have liked to. I could see it just not feel it.

I would have enjoyed the book more if there was more shown by the characters eyes, not telling.

There are a few scenes that I would have loved more details on. For example, the where they go to the BDSM club, I wanted to see what was going on around them when they entered, give me a picture as I read of what the characters are seeing, smelling, touching. I know this cannot be done the whole time, but there are times I want to be in the character's mind. I want to know what they are seeing, feeling etc. I know this is picky, but I really do miss this in books nowadays and this is why I don’t read so much anymore too. When I read I want to feel like I am in the story, not someone just telling me the story.

Would I still recommend this book? Yes, this is a new author that I know loves to learn and I know once she starts digging into the world more, the more she will apply to her stories. I can see her really growing in the next few years

How To Tame A Beast in Seven Days by Kerrelyn Sparks ~ Review

Title: How To Tame a Beast in Seven Days (The Embraced #1)
Author: Kerrelyn Sparks
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Length: 416 pages
Publisher: St Martin’s Press
Release Date: March 7, 2017
Source: Review Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Luciana grew up on the Isle of Moon, hidden away because of her magical powers. But when her father arrives, he offers her a choice: remain on the island or return with him and marry the Beast of Benwick in order to save their legacy—and her father's life.

Lord Leofric, the Beast of Benwick, has not been touched since he was a child. Born with the power to harness lightning, he is a danger to everyone he touches. When he meets his betrothed, he expects a loveless, lonely marriage...until he discovers she's vastly more powerful than he realized. But is she strong enough to withstand his touch?

If they can survive, their love will alter the future of the kingdom. But will their extraordinary powers cost them everything?

How To Tame a Beast in Seven Days was a fantastic book. Set in a fantasy world, it pulled on my roots of high fantasy reading and made them proud. A world that is detailed and vibrant, with people to go right along with it. There are even dragons!!!! Combine that with a beautiful arranged marriage style romance, I think I found a truly winning series.

The Embraced are a group of people born under a certain moon and grow up to be blessed/cursed with strange and sometimes terrifying powers. Luciana is an orphan growing up on the Isle of the Moon, the one place where Embraced are not feared and reviled. She was sent there to protect her from those that would kill her for what she is. She loves the island and her 'sisters,' but when her father (surprise!) shows up, she finds out that her history is completely different than what she believed.

Returning with her father to the mainlands, Luciana will have to convince the world that she is another person as she prepares to marry the Beast of Benwick, a man rumored to kill all who come near. And so begins our romance. Of course, the Beast has a surprising history and personality. I'm wasn't sure how Kerrelyn Sparks was going to get these characters together for a while. Everything was stacked against them and both were terrified of what might happen.

There are some crazy twists and turns as Luciana and the Beast travel to the capital. Attacks, deaths, discoveries, and along the way we get to meet some really great secondary characters that I feel just might show up with a story of their own - I certainly hope so.

While I enjoy a good twisting tale, there were a few times that it seemed like a twist was thrown in to drag the story out just a tad, and then we had a bit of a rushed ending. Overall, I loved the world, I loved the characters, and I can't wait to see what they are going to do next.

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**

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Darkness Seduced by Stephanie Rowe ~ Review

Title: Darkness Seduced (Order of the Blade #2)

Author: Stephanie Rowe
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 384 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: September 6, 2015
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Immortal warrior Gideon Roarke made an oath five hundred years ago to the woman who died for him. The ancient Calydon is ruthless in his quest to honor that promise, even if it means risking everything by teaming up with the one woman who will either destroy him, or finally bring redemption to his blackened, hardened soul. After escaping from a two-year imprisonment at the hands of a madman, the only thing Lily Davenport wants is to go home and reclaim her life. Unfortunately for Lily, standing between her and that goal is a sensual, demanding protector whose dangerous seduction threatens to claim her life...and her soul. The Calydons Destiny: The Calydons are a race of ancient immortals cursed with a dark side. Each Calydon is destined to meet his soul mate, to be so drawn to her that he is unable to resist bonding with her through the rituals of his race, but their destiny is to destroy each other and all they care about the moment their bond is complete.

It's been awhile since I read the first book in the Order of the Blade series, and I was quite happy to see that I was able to jump into Darkness Seduced without having to re-read it. There is an overall stroy arc, but the high points were covered in a way that didn't seem like a re-cap, and the romance was definitely a hot stand-alone affair.

Lily is mentioned in book one and the Calydons are out to find and rescue this woman that has been held by the bad guys (rogue Calydons) for years......yes years! But Gideon is quite surprised when they find her and it seems like she may be his mate. Why? Because he already lost his, and he isn't supposed to have another. So, our story begins with them denying the truth in front of them - but at least they have a good reason to.

Calydons aren't supposed to mate, it turns them into termpermental a-holes that like to kill everyone around them. But in the first book, our couple defies fate and manages  to avoid what was thought to be inevitable. Gideon and Lily will now have to do the same.

There is tons of action in this story, and the pacing was reminescent of an urban fantasy - so I think people who just want a good paranormal adventure will enjoy this book right along with the paranormal romance crowd.

However, with the Calydons playing with destiny, and their sanity, we don't quite have a HEA - but more of a "well, at least we haven't killed anyone yet so we can stay together" type of ending. The evil still lurks out there and they still need to destroy it. There were a few times that it seemed like the action overtook everything else - it was quite violent at times. I enjoy a good fight between good and evil, but the hop betwee down-time and action happened a little suddenly at times.

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Beauty and the Wiener by Casey Griffin ~ Review

Title: Beauty and the Wiener (A Rescue Dog Romance #2)

Author: Casey Griffin
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 400 pages
Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks
Release Date: February 7, 2017
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

A TAIL AS OLD AS TIME…

Addison Turner has scripted a perfect future for herself, complete with a fairytale ending. She will become the name in doggie fashion design and live happily ever after with the husband of her dreams—and her dachshund, Princess, by her side. Just when her plan is on track and she’s gaining recognition at the local dog show, Addison is hit with some Oscar-worthy drama. A group of prize-winning show dogs are stolen from under her nose, and she’s stuck asking for help from Felix Vaughn, an infuriatingly hot bartender who is the exact opposite of Prince Charming.

When more dogs go missing—and Felix becomes a suspect—the two team up to clear their names. Although Felix and Addison fight like cats and dogs, there’s an undeniable spark between them. And as the trail to the missing dogs heats up, so does their red-hot chemistry. Can Addison be persuaded to throw away her script to find an ending that just might be better than she ever expected?

This series is so cute! I love the addition and fun that the dogs add, and being able to re-visit the all the characters in the next book really help bring them to life. Our attention has turned to Addison this time. She's on the fast track to making her high-class grooming salon the next big thing in the dog show world. But it wouldn't be much of a story if something didn't go wrong.

The show dogs are kidnapped right out from underneath everyone's noses and Addison is being blamed. Her business is suffering and the annoying know it all bartender, Felix, isn't willing to help her. But when he gets roped into the blame game, he doesn't have much of a choice. More dogs are gone and no one seems to trust anyone else.

Felix was awesome!!! I want him. He is one of the best romance heroes I've had a chance to 'meet' in a long time. He's sweet and he really has his priorities in order. He also saves the day in the most perfect way and throws a good bit of humor into the dialog.

It was Addison I had a bit of trouble with. She's quite a judgemental person and a bit of a gold digger. But she loves Princess, her dachshund, and the little dog helps to ground her in a strange way. Princess is a bit of a diva herself, so they are a perfect match.

Felix and Addison come together while they try to clear their names. They both have to grow a bit (Addison a bit more than Felix) and there's some great tear jerking moments near the end. I will definitely be picking up the next book as soon as I can!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**

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A Rescue Dog Romance

Must Love Wieners #1

Undeniable by Gayle Eden

Title: Undeniable

Author: Gayle Eden
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: 200 pages
Publisher: Air Castle Books
Release Date: September 21, 2010
Source: Freebie
Rating: 2
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Sensual Regency Romance from Gayle Eden Free book

I don't remember why I picked up this book - maybe it was a blind "Freebie click." But I could have done without.

Let's start with the good though. Gayle Eden starts with two great characters and a good set up. Our hero is a barely legitimized bastard that society looks down on and he's trying to prove himself. Our heroine is a bit jaded and almost on the shelf miss that just wants the freedom to do what she wants.

They have a marriage of convenience and mutual purpose. Both content to live their own lives apart from each other for the most part. But the story after this point was very un-memorable. I had to read through some other reviews to jog my memory just a few days later.

Outside of the storyline, this book needs a good proofreader and historical editor. Scenes go from drinking tea to coffee, and I'm pretty sure some of the terms and language used wasn't true to the time.

I'd recommend taking a pass on this one.

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The Holiday Gift by RaeAnne Thayne ~ Review

Title: The Holiday Gift (Cowboys of Cold Creek #15)
Author: RaeAnne Thayne
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Christmas
Length: 224 pages
Publisher: Harlequin
Release Date: November 22, 2016
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

A COWBOY FOR CHRISTMAS

With two kids and an active life, widow Faith Dustin only wants peace and quiet for Christmas. But her snowy Pine Gulch ranch is nothing but chaotic. All that keeps Faith going is her helpful neighbor, cowboy Chase Brannon. He's always been "good ol' Chase," her faithful friend. Until he kisses her under the mistletoe…

Years ago Chase blew his chance with the woman he's loved since childhood. Now he's determined to step out of the friend zone…and into the role of husband. But the scared and stubborn Faith won't let herself fall. With Christmas just days away, Chase will need all the magic of the season—and the help of her two matchmaking children—to unwrap a second chance at love.

The Holiday Gift was a sweet second chance, friends to lovers style romance. There wasn't anything overly dramatic or exciting, it was just a really solid and down to earth story. Faith is determined to prove that she can make it on her own after her husband's death a couple years ago. She's raising her kids and running the ranch, and things seem to be perfect.

Then, her best friend has to go and ruin everything by asking her out on a date. Like a real date. She's not sure if she's ready for that, and she's definitely not ready to risk her friendship with Chase if things don't work out. But Chase has other ideas, he doesn't want to miss this second chance to be with the girl he's loved since they were young.

A fun and beautiful romance. I loved the connection that Chase and Faith had already built through the years and the community that surrounded them. I just had a hard time finding something that stood out and make this one something special.

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**

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Lover Unbound by J.R. Ward ~ Audiobook Review

Title: Lover Unbound (Black Dagger Brotherhood #5)

Author: JR Ward
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 502 pages - Audio
Publisher: Signet Books
Release Date: October 1, 2007
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

In Caldwell, New York, war rages between vampires and their slayers. There exists a secret band of brothers—six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Now the cold heart of a cunning predator will be warmed against its will...

Ruthless and brilliant, Vishous, son of the Bloodletter, possesses a destructive curse and a frightening ability to see the future. As a pretrans growing up in his father's war camp he was tormented and abused. As a member of the Brotherhood, he has no interest in love or emotion, only the battle with the Lessening Society. But when a mortal injury puts him in the care of human surgeon, Dr. Jane Whitcomb compels him to reveal his inner pain and taste true pleasure for the first time—until a destiny he didn't choose takes him into a future that cannot include her...

I had a hard time buying some of this one. Vishous is quite a cold hearted vampire. His history was a rough one, and I did enjoy seeing how it shaped him and his personality. A lot more about him made sense after reading this book. I felt a little sorry for him to be honest.  Although I still don't quite understand how this odd relationship with Butch fits into the whole thing.

Vishous is feeling a little sorry for himself now that his bromance has found a mate of his own. He puts himself at risk needlessly and ends up in a human hospital - this is one of the worst things that can happen. Human doctors can quickly see the difference between vampire and human anatomy (and I found some of the differences to be fascinating).

Enter Dr. Jane Whitcomb. We get a ton of history about her - some of it was a bit confusing. I kept waiting for her sister to pop up again in the story and she never did. Maybe she does later? There were some pretty heavy hints dropped that I kept waiting for her to appear.

Jane quickly realizes Vishous is different than any patient she's ever seen before. And when she's kidnapped to keep watch over her patient after he's rescued the "I love her - but she's human - but I love her - but she's human" begins and never seems to end.

Well, eventually it does, and I think JR Ward wrote herself into a corner again. There are a few times now that she's really broken the rules of her own world again. I think this was my biggest pet peeve of the series so far. She finds a way to sort of make it work, but it's not quite within the rules either.

There are some pretty big reveals about some of the brotherhood, which I like. And I enjoy seeing all them in each story. Revisiting past favorites is always fun - but I wish the women had a stronger appearance as well.

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Black Dagger Brotherhood

Dark Lover #1
Lover Eternal #2
Lover Awakened #3
Lover Revealed #4

Lover Mine #8

Feral by Laxmi Hariharan ~ Review

Title: Feral (Many Lives Spinoff #1)

Author: Laxmi Hariharan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 57 Pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: May 29, 2016
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 2
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

He was her destination. She just didn't know it.

When Maya leaves Luke to go in search of her blood family, nothing prepares her for the secrets she uncovers about herself.

An intense, shifter romance, set in Bombay. A standalone novella in the Many Lives universe.

I would recommend reading the original Many Lives series before starting. I did not and there were a few times that I was a tad confused about the world in general. Laxmi Hariharan did a great job trying to fill in the blanks without going overlong for this novella, but there were still a couple holes for me.

Maya doesn't fit in with her pack. She doesn't even think she is pack, so she leaves to find out where she came from. Her search takes her into the main city of Bombay where life is much different. There are rules for everything and lives are planned out.

Her search reveals some unexpected things, and I'm not 100% sure I'd call this a romance even. There is a romantic element, but it's in the background for most of the story. I enjoyed watching Maya find her place and learn her history, but I think a little bit more overall would have been nice.

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Bearly Smitten by Misha Carver ~ Review

Title: Bearly Smitten (The Alpha’s Bride #1)

Author: Misha Carver
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novella
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: November 17, 2016
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Surrendering my lips to his was akin to selling my soul to the devil...

When bear shifter Jed Barton’s keynote speaker engagement and his role as pack alpha require him to have a wife, he does what any other tycoon would do – he hires one – the last thing he wanted to do was fall in love with her.

Carrie

Have you ever fallen in love with someone you shouldn’t? Jed, my boss, is hot. I mean, smoking hot. But it gets worse. He’s also a womanizing jerk and a bit of a tyrant. He’d devour me if I let him. I know I should turn around and walk away, but I can’t. The heart wants what the heart wants, and it will do or endure anything to get it.

Jed

There are rules in business. Never hire a beautiful woman and never fall in love with her. Rule number one comes back to bite me in the ass every single time. You’d think a grizzly shifter of my stature could find a suitable mate without picking off his employees one by one.

Will Carrie meet Jed’s expectations to fill the role of a lifetime or will he have to pass on one of his engagements? Fur flies, stocks rise, and passion ignites in this paranormal shapeshifter romance.

A really fun office style romance. Carrie needs this job desperately, and Jed is determined to hire her even though he knows he won't be able to keep his hands off. I think what really made this memorable was the office drama. The receptionist was a riot and really had it in for Carrie - it was very well done and just added an element to help give this novella a little more depth.

Jed and Carrie are very sweet together, but Jed is denying his family legacy. When he's called home unexpectedly, he convinces Carrie to come with and pretend to be his girlfriend. I loved the reactions of the family and I really loved the book.

Why three stars?? I didn't get an ending. This is more of a serial style romance that a complete HEA of HFN ending and I wasn't expecting that at all! It really soured it for me because I was looking forward to that great ending moment and I didn't get it.

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Healer's Fate by Beth Caudill ~ Review

Title: Healer’s Fate

Author: Beth Caudill
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 73 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: July 1, 2013
Source: Purchased
Rating: 2
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Corliss Rumdone hides behind her status as Healer to avoid the normal wolf pack hierarchical challenges. A forced mating changes the course of her life. Instead of Raymond, the beta wolf selected for her, she mates with Liam—her best friend and heir to the Alpha pair.

Liam whisks them away to a shifter retreat so they can allow the mating bond to settle in private. But interference from those seeking power and two terminal children arouse past hurts and challenge their new relationship. Even their home is not the haven it should be as Liam must watch Corliss fight for the right to stay his mate. For one healer, death becomes a weapon to balance life.

This one just didn't hit the spot for me. There was so much that I needed to know more about, or that just didn't quite add up. Corliss is the pack healer, which seems to be a very honored and special position, and yet she isn't treated that way. She seems to be looked down upon and is being forced into a mating she doesn't want.

Thankfully, her old friend Liam steps in and takes his place in the mating ceremony instead. I was good through here. It's what happens when they go on their "honeymoon" that I just had a hard time with. A random group of wolves seems to have it out for Corliss, we find out somewhat of a reason later, but at the time it occurs, it was just confusing.

While they are trying to figure out what is going on - even though they don't really know anything is going on - there's a family with two children that are dying and Corliss isn't able to save them. This seems like it was just thrown in to take up space and give her something to do later in the story as well.

There were some good moments, but overall this one fell flat for me. Things weren't tied together well and the bad guys were a little too erratic and out of the blue.

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Must Love Wieners by Casey Griffin ~ Review

Title: Must Love Wieners (A Rescue Dog Romance #1)

Author: Casey Griffin
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 359 pages
Publisher: St Martin’s Paperbacks
Release Date: August 2, 2016
Source: Purchased
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Piper Summers works like a dog juggling three jobs to put herself through veterinary school—driving taxis, delivering pizzas, and singing telegrams. Thankfully, Piper has her devoted dachshund Colin to help her keep things in line. That is, until she gets fired...and someone throws her a bone that is too good to resist.

Aiden Caldwell is an Armani ad come to life—a billionaire CEO who’s just adopted a dachshund from the rescue center where Piper volunteers. He’s hot on Piper’s tail to be his personal dog walker...but he may be after more than a walker for his wiener. The gorgeous, spirited Piper is everything he’s ever wanted from a woman—and more. But can Piper ever love, and trust, a man who has never learned to open his heart—or has she bitten off more than she can chew?

Must Love Wieners is even more fun than the title sounds. This was such a fun read from start to finish. A couple that just worked great together, some amazing dialog, a little over the top personality, and of course a couple cute pups. It was the perfect recipe for a book I couldn't put down.

Piper is a struggling student, trying to make ends meet until she can pass her vet exams and land a real job. In the meantime, she's working three jobs at once and things are just piling up and ready to topple. And topple they do, right into the lap of Aiden Caldwell, a super rich CEO that didn't know he needed to have his life shaken up until Piper does it.

When Piper's life begins to crumble around her, and they someone seems out to get her. When clues point to that someone being Aiden - well, there's trouble in paradise. I loved how the suspense element built up. The answer always seemed to be just out of reach.

The nice little topper on the cake of this romance was the dogs. Even a bit of romance there when two long lost buddies are allowed to re-connect. Well written and a great story. You won't regret picking this one up.

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A Night of Forever by Bronwen Evans ~ Review

Title: A Night of Forever (The Disgraced Lords #6)
Author: Bronwen Evans
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: 240 pages
Publisher: Loveswept
Release Date: October 26, 2016
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Distrust is no match for desire as a proper young miss and a self-professed rogue hunt down a murderer in this thrilling Disgraced Lords novel from the USA Today bestselling author of A Kiss of Lies and A Taste of Seduction.

Arend Aubury trusts no one besides his fellow Libertine Scholars. After his family escaped from France, penniless and persecuted, only the Scholars took him in. So when the stepdaughter of the villainess who has been plotting against them approaches Arend with allegations against their enemy, he suspects a double cross. Yet Isobel is a tantalizing prize, with lips as sweet as champagne and skin as creamy as Camembert. Is she a feast for the senses—or a bitter trap?

Lady Isobel Thompson dreams of marrying an honorable gentleman with a spotless reputation, a trait that Arend seems to lack completely. But Isobel believes that her stepmother is responsible for her father’s death, and only Arend has the skills to uncover the truth. As a cover, Arend suggests a fake betrothal—and soon Isobel finds herself forgetting that their courtship is a ploy. He’s so different from the man of her fantasies, and yet he’s so terribly handsome, so dangerously intoxicating—and all Isobel wants is more.

A Night of Forever takes us further into the events of Arend's kidnapping - which we see from others' perspectives in the previous book. It did take me a few moments to find my place in the timeline, but once I was settled I really enjoyed the story.  Although, knowing part of the outcome did make it a bit less suspenseful for me.

Lady Isabel is the step-daughter of the woman the Libertine Scholars believe is trying to ruin and kill them. How could she not know what is going on when she is right in the middle of it all? Arend is determined to prove her collusion and is willing to take some rather extreme measures to do so. But or course this backfires, and he finds himself deeply intrigued by the lady.

There is a lot of action, and even though I knew how it was going to end already, there were a couple surprises along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed Lady Isobel. She had a quick wit and was fiercely loyal once she deemed you worthy of her trust.

I wasn't as fond as Arend, he's never been my favorite of the Libertine Scholars. A bit too roguish for my tastes - and too much of a blackguard to really seem like the hero. In fact, he's the one in need of rescue a few times. I'm all for a damsel rescuing her hero, but that isn't the case. In fact, she's rescued by someone entirely different (I hope he finds love) that I liked much better than Arend.

A great addition to the story of the Libertine Scholars, and sort of an end. There's still more to come and I can't wait to read it. As a series, it is near the top of my list for great reads.

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**

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The Disgraced Lords

Kiss of Lies #1
A Promise of More #2

A Touch of Passion #3
A Whisper of Desire #4
A Taste of Seduction #5

Homewrecker Incorporated by S. Simone Chavous ~ Review

Title: Homewrecker Incorporated
Author: S. Simone Chavous
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 328 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 5, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 2
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

*Don't let the title fool you, this is a story about true love, not cheating.

Without love, marriage is just business. At least that’s what Claudia Mason tells the women who seek her firm’s unique services. With wealthy husbands who see their wedding rings as meaningless pieces of jewelry, they trust Claudia to do whatever is necessary to gather the hard evidence needed to shatter an ironclad prenup.

She is the best in the business and has yet to meet a mark she couldn’t get the goods on— solidifying her belief that no man can be trusted. After landing a client who is her ticket to retirement, she is on top of the world. Until a chance encounter with Greyston Michaels turns her carefully controlled world upside down.

Greyston shows Claudia a part of herself she thinks she’s lost, making her question everything she believes about men—and love. But in Claudia's world, following her heart is bad for business. And business is everything.

This was a really well-written story. The characters were incredibly dynamic and fun, each with their own personality that really made them stand out from the group, while also added an important essence to the overall group as well. Some descriptive storytelling really brought the city to life around them.

But, I didn't like it. It was just a storyline that I couldn't seem to enjoy. Nothing wrong with the writing whatsoever, but the story just made me mad. The lies, the deceit, and the whole fact that they are trying to break up marriages (yes, with good reason, but still) was something I found I just couldn't enjoy.

Plus the twins kept getting mixed up. We have Grey and Greg.....I'm sorry but those names were just too close to each other for me and I kept wanting to switch them around and confusing myself.

*This books was received in exchange for an honest review*

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When a Laird Finds a Lass by Lecia Cornwall ~ Review

Title: When a Laird Finds a Lass (A Highland Fairy Tale #2)

Author: Lecia Cornwall
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: 283 pages
Publisher: Swerve
Release Date: November 1, 2016
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

She is his greatest enemy and his only salvation.

Malcolm MacDonald, a lawyer in Edinburgh, unexpectedly inherits his father’s title of Laird of Dunbronach, forcing him to return to a place he hasn’t seen since he was a small child. To gain the trust of a wary clan, Malcolm must act upon their insistence that he cast aside his English betrothed and marry a Highlander.

However, they have one condition—no lasses of the barbaric clan MacLeod.

When he finds an unconscious woman in the sea, he brings her back to his clan but not before doing the one thing that could save her life—hiding her all too telling MacLeod plaid. When she wakes with no memory of who she is, Malcolm vows to keep the little he knows about her identity a secret. As new dangers threaten his clan, the mysterious lass teaches Malcolm some very important lessons about how to be a Highlander and a laird.

But secrets never stay secret for long, and when she finds her plaid, her memory returns and she flees. Malcolm is forced to make a difficult choice to win her back, facing his darkest fears and his worst enemy for a chance at true love.

This series has completely wrapped me around its finger. It's not often I give two books in a row from a series 5 stars, but A Highland Fairy Tale is just enchanting. The subtle nods to classic fairy tales, mixed with exciting highlander romance seems to be the perfect combination for me. And Lecia Cornwall does a great job mixing them together just right.

Malcolm may not look much like a highlander at first, but deep down in his blood he's highlander through and through. When his clan tracks him down in the city to come be the new Laird of Dunbronach, he thinks it's a joke. He's a lawyer - not a highlander. But to honor his estranged father's dying wish, he'll go back, but he won't be staying.

But the mysterious woman who washes up on shore may make him change his mind. The clan is convinced she's a selkie, but there's a secret that Malcolm hides from everyone - she's the daughter of a clan the MacDonald's have sworn to kill.

There's a dash of lies, some mistaken identity, and a just a hint of mermaid and selkie lore to add a hint of magic to the story. A finding of yourself theme for Malcolm, and he'll need his mystery woman to pull it all together. A great romance, and a great story. I can't wait to see what's next!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**

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A Highland Fairy Tale

Beauty and the Highland Beast #1

To Dance Again by Hebby Roman ~ Review

Title: To Dance Again

Author: Hebby Roman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 190 pages
Publisher: Wild Rose Press
Release Date: December 11, 2015
Source: Review Request
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

They say a woman never forgets her first love, and Maricel Cardona hasn't forgotten Ramón Morales. She remembers dancing all night in Ramón's arms to the sensual beat of their homeland, Puerto Rico. When her family forced her to move to the States, she didn't know she was carrying Ramón's child.

A self-made multi-millionaire, Ramón hasn't forgotten Maricel and the passion he felt, dancing with her. Now, at the pinnacle of his success, he's withdrawn from the world to safeguard his own secret. A secret that, if revealed, would change his life forever. Reunited after twenty-seven years, will the high school sweethearts get a second chance at love or will their secrets tear them apart?

Loves reunited is one of my favorite tropes, and this one did a great job in that area. Maricel and Ramon were high school sweethearts when Maricel's family left Puerto Rico for United States, separating them. Both lived their separate lives for over twenty years, but Maricel is drawn back to Puerto Rico for a few reasons, and talking to Ramon is one of them.

I liked Maricel, and I didn't like Maricel. She kept her secret far too long. I can only imagine how difficult it would be to tell Ramon a secret like this, but there were so many opportunities that she let just pass her by. Once or twice I think I would have understood, but it was just too many times, and I was never a fan of secrets.

Ramon is just as guilty with his secret, the one he tries to keep from the entire world. But all secrets eventually come out, and when his does it just makes him seem a little silly and overly prideful. They did make an amazing couple together, and the ending was incredibly sweet and just what the story needed.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Her Heart's Desire by Linda Joyce ~ Review

Title: Her Heart’s Desire

Author: Linda Joyce
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 280 pages
Publisher: Word Works Press
Release Date: July 16, 2015
Source: Review Request
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Artist Amelia Britton battles her older brother for the right to remain on the family farm—their inheritance after their parents’ tragic deaths—she faces a looming mortgage, weather threatens to destroy her crops, and the man she secretly loves only sees her as Craig’s little sister.

After serving his country in Afghanistan, Lucas Dwyer expected to return home to his family’s farm, but the bank foreclosed. Undeterred, he begins combining-for-hire to support his younger sister in college. His best friend convinces him to discourage local guys from dating Amelia. Craig wants her back in the city, farming is too hard for a woman alone. Only one problem—Lucas has fallen in love with Amelia.

With family, the bank, and the weather conspiring against them, can Amelia and Lucas ever hope to grow the love blooming between them?

Well, the first thing I have to say about this one is that Craig is an a-hole. A big one. You're set up to dislike him, and it just keeps getting worse. He treats our star, Amelia, like she's five years old and needs to be taken care of in every way, incapable of making her own decision. But, Amelia isn't having any of it.

In fact, she's determined to get a boyfriend and have an amazing date. But of course we have complications. That complication comes in the form of her brother's best friend, Lucas. Who also happens to be the man she's had a crush on her entire life.

Thins sort of steamroll on Amelia, and I continue to wonder if her brother had anything to do with it. It seems like she just can't catch a break - it's actually a little too much. Instead of waiting for her and Lucas to get together, I started wondering what was going to wrong next.

The ending was quite abrupt. It seemed like it hit an HEA brick wall and suddenly it was over. I prefer to see a little bit more of a wind down, myself.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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