Happy New Year!!! Let's start this year off right with some great December 2015 and January 2016 releases. So much to choose from, I think it's going to be hard to pick.
Paranormal
Science Fiction
Historical
Contemporary
Suspense
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Less Than a Lady by Eva Devon - Review
Less Than a Lady was absolutely wonderful! We start out with an Earl trying on a dress by order of the king. Definitely an interesting way to get a book started. Darcy is wearing a dress so that he can go undercover to find traitors in the world of London theater. His mark is actress Amelia - famous in the theater and one of the most beautiful ladies in London.
Title: Less Than a Lady
Author: Eva Devon
Genre: Historical Romance,
Length: Novel
Publisher: Entangled Publishing LLC
Release Date: December 28, 2015
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
To win a lord, you can’t be a lady…
Darcy Blake, Earl of Chase, is a solider, rogue, and a loyal King's man. Commanded to spy on the luscious actress Amelia Fox, Darcy must pretend to be her student for a court theatrical. He is certain he can school her in the art of seduction while discovering if she is a traitor. But to his shock, he finds Mrs. Fox teaching him an entirely different kind of lesson.
As London's most popular actress, Amelia is famous at court, and she doesn't have a husband to tell her what do. Unfortunately, the king has ordered her to train the rakehell, Lord Chase to act for the court. Before long, the Earl is driving her wild with desire and awakening her heart to love. As an actress, society dictates she can never be more than Lord Chase's mistress, and Amelia has vowed never to be less than a lady.
When Darcy learns the witty actress is indeed linked to a traitor, he'll have to decide if love or loyalty will rule the day.
Amelia also has quite a bit of attitude. I really loved this woman and her devotion to her own standards and way of life. She isn't about to fall for some Earl's suave ways and attempts to seduce her. She'll give as good as she gets and put him in his place. And that works for quite awhile, too.
Meanwhile, Darcy is falling head over heels in love with the woman he may have to arrest for treason. But there's so much more to her story that he realizes at first. There were a lot of fun twists to her history and reasons for doing things that kept throwing me (and Darcy) for a loop - but in a very good way. A good dose of mystery and suspense here to really round out the story.
In the end things get even more interesting. I had to laugh at a few of the scenes - they were just so clever and watching Darcy's friends react to the situation was amusing. One of the best endings I've seen in a book in a long time. It all worked out beautifully, but still a little unexpectedly.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
This Scarlet Cord by Joan Wolf - Review
I don't know much about Rahab and the story of Jericho - other than the walls fell down and the Israelites were victorious. But Joan Wolf has a way with words. The city jumps off the pages, from the crowded and congested lower city, to the pristine temples of Baal and Ashera.
Title: The Scarlet Cord: The Love Story of Rahab
Author: Joan Wolf
Genre: Historical Romance, Inspirational Romance
Length: 307 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release Date: July 10, 2012
Source: Self-Purchased
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 1
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
A chasm lies between Rahab and her beloved Sala that can never be crossed. Though Sala rescues young Rahab from slave bandits, he knows he can never fall in love with a Canaanite. His belief in the One True God prevents them from a future together. Rahab's beauty gains royal notice, and she is selected to entice the King during the annual sacred marriage reenactment praising their pagan god, Baal. But when the King suffers a heart attack and dies, Rahab is saved from the humiliating act. Her despair drives her curiosity about Sala's One True God. Could He accept her . . . even love her? Deceit and pride stand in the way of Rahab's happy ending. Only God can use these events to tell the larger story of forgiveness and redemption.
Rahab is a very fascinating character. She is a strong woman that seems to really look at what is going on around her, choosing her decisions based on what her heart tells her. She seems a great math for Sala, but there is one huge problem. She is a Canaanite and he is an Israelite. Neither of their families would ever agree to a marriage.
But as her life begins to fall apart, she begins to re-think her beliefs and her way of life. This was no sudden epiphany, but a good long soul-searching that was quite touching and a little scary. As an army approaches the city of Jericho, her decisions will mean the life or death of her entire family.
While this is an inspirational romance, you do not have to be religious to enjoy the romance and time period. It's a very well told story of two amazing people during a time that isn't visited very often.
Monday, December 21, 2015
Twilight Prophecy by Maggie Shayne - Review
I am so happy that I stuck with this series. After taking a small dip and changing directions, it seems we're back on track with the vamps I love. Coming back to the original group of vampires was something I really looked forward to doing. While we get a brief glimpse at Vixen and some of her crew (maybe more to come from them later?), we really get to see Rhiannon and her completely awesome panther, the twin half-breeds, and all the rest of my old favorites!!
Title: Twilight Prophecy (Wings in the Night #17, Children of Twilight #1)
Author: Maggie Shayne
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 392 pages
Publisher: Mira
Release Date: April 19, 2011
Source: Library Rental
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
According to ancient prophecy, there's only one chance to avert the complete annihilation of the Undead. Twins James William and Brigit Poe, part human, part vampire, believe that they "are" that chance. In truth, the key lies with the reclusive--and mortal--scholar Lucy Lanfair.As Armageddon approaches, antivampire sentiment fuels a war neither side can win, driving James to abandon his moral code and draw Lucy into a deadly battle she wants no part of.
But Lucy soon realizes that she holds this powerful immortal's soul in her hands and that it's her destiny not only to stop a war but to save him from his inner darkness. If she fails, his race will die--and so will her heart. Is the power of love strong enough to save the world?
As the world realizes that vampires might actually exist, things to to hell in quite a large hand basket very quickly. Senseless burning of both vampires and non-vampires, wide spread fear, and a lack of understanding. At the center of it all are James, his twin sister Brigit, and a strangely captivating human named Lucy. As they work together to save as many vampires as they can and translate an ancient prophecy Lucy and James become quite close.
There is a lot of distrust floating around in this one, and I loved it. I know I sure wouldn't trust some random vampire the first day I found out they actually existed. Their slow building of trust and friendship was amazing. At heart they are so much alike, but how they react to things is just so different. A great couple to see grow closer.
There is also plenty of action as DPI is back in full force and preparing their final blow. We also get to meet a new player in the game that really surprised me. He is fascinating and I wonder what is going to happen with him.
Lots of great things are starting up again, and I really need to get my hands on the next one soon!
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Sweet Ruin (Immortals After Dark #16) by Kresley Cole
Title: Sweet Ruin (Immortals After Dark #16)
Author: Kresley Cole
Source: Received from the publisher for an honest review
Length: Novel
Reviewer: Laurie
Rating: 1
Sexual Rating: 3
As much as it pains me to say this, I didn’t not much care for this book as I have the previous books in the series.
There’s quite a bit here that I didn’t enjoy about this book so, I am going to just tell you what I didn’t enjoy the most. I started liking the heroine but, after few chapters the book seemed totally turn into all about the hero and his background and that left me in the dark totally about Jo therefore, caused me to be disconnect with her character. You will get to know some of her background, but you have to wait until almost the end to find out.
I never felt that passion that really connected the hero and heroine. You can have foreplay and sex in the story but, it doesn’t work for me unless you have that passion between them.
Spoilers below
I didn’t care for the hero Rune. I understand his background and how he was abused and turned into a manwhore, what I didn’t understand was why he didn’t want to change for Jo. He really seemed quite happy with who he was and love being that manwhore. When you first read about him is with a bunch of nymphs having sex with them and Jo is watching him. I’m sorry but, that scene was a total turn off for me. For the largest portion of the book he constantly reminds Jo that he will never be faithful to her and yet it doesn’t really seem to faze her. Whatever! These two are constantly and I mean constantly having foreplay throughout the whole book, it’s either them talk about it or them having foreplay; sex comes very late in the book. I’ve never read anything quite like it before and to tell you the truth I got bored reading it.
Some people will say he is a flat out cheater while others say he did not. I myself call him a cheater because he set out to have sex with the nymph and he was naked with her, all to save Jo’s brother. Jo begged him not to do it but, he felt there was no other way to save her brother, so they split here for a few chapters. I didn’t much care for how easy she took him back after he almost went through with having sex with the nymph.
I'm sorry but, I have never liked a book where the hero thinks he can have sex with anyone he wants but, the heroine cannot. He gets mad and pulls out the "mine" word when she says anything about seeing someone else but yet he can tell her about all of the women he has been with and plans to be with soon, repeatedly and doesn’t expect her to get mad. WHATEVER!
The upside is this book is a standalone, so if you have missed a few books in the series or have never read this series you can totally pick this one up and read it without feeling like you’re missing something. Just be warned of this issues I had about the book above before buying because this book is not cheap even in Ebook it list for over 10.00.
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest review.
Author: Kresley Cole
Source: Received from the publisher for an honest review
Length: Novel
Reviewer: Laurie
Rating: 1
Sexual Rating: 3
An immortal assassin is caught between desire and duty...
A foundling raised in a world of humans
Growing up, orphaned Josephine didn’t know who or what she was—just that she was “bad,” an outcast with strange powers. Her baby brother Thaddeus was as perfect as she was flawed; protecting him became her entire life. The day he was taken away began Jo’s transition from angry girl... to would-be superhero... to enchanting, ruthless villain.
A lethally sensual enforcer on a mission
A threat to the Møriør has brought archer Rune the Baneblood to the mortal realm to slay the oldest living Valkyrie. Whether by bow or in bed, he never fails to eliminate his target. Yet before he can strike, he encounters a vampiric creature whose beauty conceals a black heart. With one bite, she pierces him with aching pleasure, taking his forbidden blood -and jeopardizing the secrets of his brethren.
A boundless passion that will lead to sweet ruin...
Could this exquisite female be a spy sent by the very Valkyrie he hunts? Rune knows he must not trust Josephine, yet he’s unable to turn her away. Despite his millennia of sexual conquests, he can’t ignore the unfamiliar longing she arouses deep within him. When Jo betrays the identity of the one man she will die to protect, she and Rune become locked in a treacherous battle of wills that pits ultimate loyalty against unbridled lust.
As much as it pains me to say this, I didn’t not much care for this book as I have the previous books in the series.
There’s quite a bit here that I didn’t enjoy about this book so, I am going to just tell you what I didn’t enjoy the most. I started liking the heroine but, after few chapters the book seemed totally turn into all about the hero and his background and that left me in the dark totally about Jo therefore, caused me to be disconnect with her character. You will get to know some of her background, but you have to wait until almost the end to find out.
I never felt that passion that really connected the hero and heroine. You can have foreplay and sex in the story but, it doesn’t work for me unless you have that passion between them.
Spoilers below
I didn’t care for the hero Rune. I understand his background and how he was abused and turned into a manwhore, what I didn’t understand was why he didn’t want to change for Jo. He really seemed quite happy with who he was and love being that manwhore. When you first read about him is with a bunch of nymphs having sex with them and Jo is watching him. I’m sorry but, that scene was a total turn off for me. For the largest portion of the book he constantly reminds Jo that he will never be faithful to her and yet it doesn’t really seem to faze her. Whatever! These two are constantly and I mean constantly having foreplay throughout the whole book, it’s either them talk about it or them having foreplay; sex comes very late in the book. I’ve never read anything quite like it before and to tell you the truth I got bored reading it.
Some people will say he is a flat out cheater while others say he did not. I myself call him a cheater because he set out to have sex with the nymph and he was naked with her, all to save Jo’s brother. Jo begged him not to do it but, he felt there was no other way to save her brother, so they split here for a few chapters. I didn’t much care for how easy she took him back after he almost went through with having sex with the nymph.
I'm sorry but, I have never liked a book where the hero thinks he can have sex with anyone he wants but, the heroine cannot. He gets mad and pulls out the "mine" word when she says anything about seeing someone else but yet he can tell her about all of the women he has been with and plans to be with soon, repeatedly and doesn’t expect her to get mad. WHATEVER!
The upside is this book is a standalone, so if you have missed a few books in the series or have never read this series you can totally pick this one up and read it without feeling like you’re missing something. Just be warned of this issues I had about the book above before buying because this book is not cheap even in Ebook it list for over 10.00.
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest review.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Fire Away by R.L. Syme - Review
When a story starts out with two people meeting eyes across a cupcake tasting that involve jalapenos - then I know I may have found me fictional soul mates. I really really loved both Claire and Aiden, My only problem was the whole sister thing - but that was addressed and resolved very well. In fact, resolving that issue was a good chunk of the book, and it was handled very well.
Title: Fire Away (Somewhere, TX #3)
Author: R.L. Syme
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Length: 212 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 16, 2014
Source: Self-Purchased
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
When two people fall for the same cupcake, more than tempers flare...
Claire Milton moves back to Somewhere, TX with her life in shambles. She lost her job, her savings, and the support of her parents. But she has an idea that will put everything back on track. And she needs Meg Klein's help. The MatchBaker. When Claire attends her scheduled taste-testing at Meg's Bakery in Old Town Somewhere, TX, she doesn't expect to have company, let alone her first crush.
And what a crush he was.
Strapping fireman, town sports hero, all around hunky and currently quite single. So what is Aidan doing at a wedding cake tasting?
Captain Aidan Conley doesn't get out much. He's been mostly in limbo, trying to avoid the town gossips who only want to talk about him and his late wife. When doing his sister a favor puts him in the path of Claire Milton, his high school best friend, he can't stop thinking about how much he wants to kiss her. But when a cold case at the fire house puts his career in jeopardy and Claire is the only person standing between him and a life sentence, he has to put his feelings aside and fight for his life.
But a fireman who knows entirely too much about how to investigate fires must be under suspicion when his wife dies suddenly in a house fire. Even if they were the happiest couple on earth. So when Claire discovers evidence that they weren't as happy as they seem and it casts a light on Aidan she doesn't want to admit, she has to choose between her resurfacing feelings and her own safety...
There's a good dose of suspense as Aiden begins his own investigation into what happened to his deceased wife. There's a lot of danger and a few close calls that will get your adrenaline pumping. But there wasn't quite enough to really call this a full on romantic suspense.
Aiden and Claire have ties that go way back, which was also nice since they didn't have a whole lot of time to forge a new one. However, her jumping in and standing up for him, while brave and honest, seemed a little out of character for the girl who seems more of the shy type. But it had to be done to get things moving.
I really enjoyed this one. There was just enough suspense to keep my adrenaline going, and plenty of romance to keep my heart happy.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Jungle Freakn' Bride by Eve Langlais - Review
I really loved Acat and Chaob. They are great friends and their personalities work perfectly together - a very well balanced pair full of confidence. But when they finally are sent on a mating hunt and find Carlie is their prize - they wonder if something may be wrong. Not only is she not a native - which if frowned upon - but she refuses to settle down and be a "good little woman." Watching Carlie but her new mates through hell as she insists on answers and turns the tables on their tactics a few times was a lot of fun.
Title: Jungle Freakn’ Bride (Freakn’ Shifters #5)
Author: Eve Langlais
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 246 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 4, 2012
Source: Self-Purchased
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 4
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
Warning: Hot, steamy threesomes, chauvinism and more are running wild in the jungle. Can you handle the heat?
Abducted by a pair of hunky, tribal warriors, Carlie doesn’t think things can get any stranger until the first time she purrs.
Everyone’s heard of the mysterious Moon Ghost Jaguars, supposed shapeshifting men who steal women as their brides. What they forgot to mention was that half naked, ripped and oh so delicious, they always came as a pair – and turned into really big freakn’ cats! But Carlie’s not about to let these furry Tarzan’s dictate her future, even if they seem to have conquered her body.
Acat didn’t think he wanted a mate until he came across the outspoken American with golden hair. Making her his bride is only part of the battle. With the help of his best friend, Chaob, can he find a way to convince this strong willed woman to follow the traditions of his tribe? Or will this reluctant jungle bride get her lovers to accept the fact she’ll never be a classic barefoot and pregnant mate?
But I wish the book had focused more on just them. Instead we get an extra non-native involved about half way through that just really seemed to be a red herring - thrown in for the sole purpose of creating more conflict - unnecessary conflict. It almost seemed like it was there to add pages - which I really dislike.
But once we get that little hiccup resolved, it all becomes very fun again. These primitive men will surprise you at every turn and Carlie is just a very nice breathe of fresh air.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Mastered: Teagan by Krystal Shannan - Review
Teagan's viewpoint that pain is the only thing that can make her forget isn't a new one. But Kyrstal Shannan did an amazing job of portraying the utter despair she feels when she doesn't get her dose of physical pain to drown out the emotional.
Title: Mastered: Teagan (Sanctuary Texas Novella)
Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novella
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 15, 2015
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 4
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
Nobody could fix her or claim her.
She belonged to nobody.
Pain was her game.
Self-deprecating and guilt-ridden she-wolf, Teagan Rourke, has been to hell and back. Now, all she wants is agony to reinforce what she already knows--she doesn't deserve happiness. Frequenting Castle, a local BDSM club, and succumbing to a sadist's wishes is the only "happily ever after" she's looking for. And all the magick in Sanctuary won't change her mind.
But when Teagan gets paired with a new Dom, Finn O’Connor, it seems that all bets are off. The type of pain this sexy and rugged wolf might inflict might be too much for her to endure. Swearing to never open herself up again to the type of suffering that love can cause, Teagan tries to deny the pull she feels for him. But Finn isn't giving up; he's waited too long for a perfect mate like her. It's up to him to show her the light beneath the darkness of her past. Can a little luck of the draw turn into fated magick for Teagan and Finn?
Having sworn off ever finding love or real pleasure again, she is terrified to realize that she may have found a mate - one that isn't interested in hurting her, but is much more interested in healing her. Their introduction is intense but fast (in the reading sense). But the chemistry is impossible to ignore.
I love that this can be a stand-alone. It is a great way for people to give Sanctuary, TX a try. A nice little sip that will get you addicted to the fast paced writing and great characters of Krystal Shannan.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Monday, December 14, 2015
Saddle Up by Jodi Vaughn - Review
Such a sweet romance. We get a glimpse of Emily and Derrek in book one, and I was really excited to see how the got together and worked out. Emily is such a sweet girl, but life keeps dealing her bad cards. She is afraid to even hope that something good can come from her new found relationship with Derrek. A little overly gun shy at times, her story is one that definitely deserves a happy ending.
Title: Saddle Up (Somewhere, TX #2)
Author: Jodi Vaughn
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 129 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 17, 2014
Source: Self-Purchased
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
She can heal his broken ribs, but it will take more than medicine to repair her reputation…
Nurse Emily Smith’s career was almost DOA thanks to her no-good, drug selling ex-boyfriend. Moving to Somewhere, Texas, she hoped to have a fresh start in the small county hospital, far away from all the accusing rumors and pitying looks. It was a good plan, until she found out her ex took out a business loan in her name. It seems he stole more than a prescription pad. Now Emily has to repay the huge loan or face legal action.
All ranch owner, Derrek Diaz, wanted was a Saturday night of fun. A few beers, a long ride in the fresh air…he hadn’t planned on a trip to the ER. The last thing he needs is to be unable to work. No, scratch that. The last thing he needs is a woman underfoot at the ranch. But when he overhears Emily begging for extra work shifts to pay an overdue bill, he speaks before he thinks. Now he has a gorgeous nurse staying with him, taking care of him and trying to be a ranch hand.
Things are about to get a whole hotter in Texas.
Derrek on the other hand seems to be just going through the motions. Yes, he's had some bad experiences, but nothing like Emily. But he's hard working and it's just about time for him to sit back and relax a little - even if it takes some broken ribs to do so.
Their romance is slow and sweet and so fitting for a ranch in a small town. DJ makes a few appearances throughout, and it was gun seeing her through her brother's eyes as a change. I can't wait to see who is up next on the romance block in Somewhere.
Friday, December 11, 2015
A Midnight Clear by Hope Ramsay - Review
OMG. This book may be a shorter novella, but it will have you tearing up like crazy! Teri is a single mom with an autistic son. She has come to the conclusion that this is all her life is going to be - who would want to take on all she has? Her son, Aiden, is adorable. But he hates Christmas - Santa, carols, candles, red - he'll have none of it! But Dr. Tom sees something in both of them and he just can't resist getting to know them better. Here's where the tears start, and they just kept coming in the most amazing and heartfelt way.
Title: A Midnight Clear (Last Chance #9.5)
Author: Hope Ramsay
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Christmas
Length: Novella
Publisher: Forever Yours
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 1
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
Dr. Tom Crawford isn't feeling the spirit of the season when he arrives in Last Chance. Far from friends and family, he's the odd man out in this town of gossiping, tight-knit Southerners-until he meets a sweetly sexy single mom who makes him feel welcome. Suddenly the handsome doctor is thinking he's finally found a place to call home. Local florist Teri Summers has her hands full of mistletoe in preparation for the holiday, yet finding someone to kiss is her last priority. But when the gorgeous new doctor makes a connection with her special needs son, Aiden, Teri finds herself wondering if she's finally found happiness in this season of joy. For Teri and Tom, Last Chance may be their best chance at love . . .
I loved that this was such a real look (as for as my knowledge goes) into not only a single mother, but also into a family with a child that no one seems to understand. There are even small breaks in the narrative where we get to see things from Aiden's point of view, and they were amazing. Everything he thought made such perfect sense, but it just didn't quite translate into our world in the best way.
Watching Teri, and then Tom, work with Aiden to make his life fulfilling and comfortable. Working with his unique quirks while still trying to expose him to a wonderful world was great to see.
As Tom and Teri try to navigate this new relationship, Aiden is trying to navigate a new world of his own - a new type of Christmas.
And now I'm tearing up again. Seriously, everyone has to read this!!!
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Rebel Bride by Elizabeth Moss - Historical Road Trip Tour and Giveaway
Title: Rebel Bride (Lust in the Tudor Court #2)
Author: Elizabeth Moss
ISBN: 9781492613855
Release date: December 1, 2015
Genre: Erotic Romance, Historical Romance
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Hilary Mantel meets Sylvia Day: the second installment in a deliciously erotic trilogy begun in Wolf Bride, set against the sumptuous backdrop of the scandal-ridden Tudor Court by Elizabeth Moss. HE IS UNDER HER SPELL...
Hugh Beaufort, favored courtier of King Henry VIII, likes his women quiet and biddable. But Susannah Tyrell is neither of these things. She is feisty, beautiful, opinionated and brave. And Hugh is fascinated by her—despite himself.
When Susannah pulls an outrageous stunt and finds herself lost in the wilds of England, Hugh must go to her rescue. Neither of them is prepared for the dangers that lie in wait. But most deadly of all is their forbidden desire for one another. Hugh has long held himself in check, but even his iron will has its limits as they remain alone together in the forest, far from the restraints of court...
Author Bio Born into a literary family, Elizabeth Moss lives with her husband and five children in South West England, and is a keen countryside walker. She writes fun, sexy historical romances and also writes award-winning fiction as Victoria Lamb. For more information, please visit her website: www.elizabethmossfiction.com.
In Rebel Bride, Hugh and Susannah travel the dangerous roads of Tudor England together, forced into each other’s company by circumstances. Beautiful and feisty, Susannah has run away from her cruel father in Yorkshire. Finding her in the wild forest, Hugh is determined to escort his willful charge safely to the king’s court.
Fictional journeys like this often work as metaphors for a character’s inward journey towards emotional or spiritual development. For Susannah, this journey to London is about resistance and attraction; for Hugh, it’s a struggle between physical desire and his moral duty to protect this young woman – even from himself!
Travel in Tudor England was not easy, even for a courtier like Hugh Beaufort. Beyond London, major roads were little better than muddy tracks, with robbers and bandits lying in wait for the unwary traveller. Within towns, local citizens were charged with the upkeep of roads; in reality, this meant Tudor streets were dark, narrow and uneven, pitted with potholes, and strewn with rubbish and human ordure. The wealthy travelled by horse or curtained litter, a good horse covering up to 30 miles per day. There were no carriages yet, and carts would have been deeply uncomfortable for passengers, lacking any form of suspension as they jolted and bumped over every pothole.
Road trips around England could take a week to ten days to complete, and wealthy travellers like Hugh and Susannah usually preferred not to hurry. Every night would be spent at a wayside inn, as journeying after dark was impractical without lights. If you could find a place to stay that looked clean and was free of plague, you were lucky. Popular inns might be crowded with travellers, and being forced to share a bed with a stranger was not unheard-of. Though on their journey, Hugh has to be careful – in public at least – to keep his distance from an unmarried lady like Susannah.
Fare would have been simple too. Inn keepers or famers along the way might provide travellers with the equivalent of a packed lunch for the journey. Our hero and heroine probably dined on bread and cheese, smoked bacon, honey cakes, and a stoppered flask of beer, consumed at the roadside. As a courtier, Hugh might have insisted on wine and perhaps sweetmeats for his lady companion. Besides onions for flavor, even wealthy Tudors rarely consumed vegetables, though seasonal fruits were popular and often elaborately prepared.
Hugh and Susannah’s Tudor tips for your own road trip:
Never argue with thy love in front of thy companions on the road, for fear of shaming one another.
Journey not for many hours without ceasing, but take thy ease from time to time, for fear of some mishap.
Avoid excess of wine and music late at night when the body is weak and the desire strong.
Consume not strong onions with thy cheese. Or, if thou must, keep a sprig or two of parsley close at hand and so avoid the reek of foul breath.
Let neither wine nor ale confuse thee on horseback, but keep thy good wits sharp, remembering that robbers and uneven roads ever assail the unwary traveller.
Carry a saint’s bone or other holy relic in thy purse, and thou shalt end thy journey safely and in good spirits.
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Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Say You're Mine by Diane Alberts - Review
Say You're Mine was a great look at best friends to lovers. Lauren and Steven know each other so well, but they can't seem to see the attraction that is right in front of both their noses. But a small lie could really throw a wrench into them finally finding each other.
Title: Say You’re Mine (Shillings Agency #5)
Author: Diane Alberts
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 181 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Brazen
Release Date: December 7, 2015
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
She’s a challenge he can’t afford to lose…
Navy SEAL Steven Thomas has only ever been able to count on three things: waking up in the morning, going to sleep sometime during the night, and Lauren Brixton. She’s been his best friend since grade school, and what they have is the only relationship he’s managed not to ruin.
Until one drunken night puts that all in jeopardy.
Lauren’s watched Steven flit from one-night stand to one-night stand, seemingly not interested in something more. So when the long-ignored attraction between the two of them blows up in their faces, she does the only thing she can—she pretends she doesn’t want him. But all’s fair in love and war, and Steven’s not about to lose the only person in his life who matters…
While I applaud Steven's hard stance on lies, for once I think the lie was almost justified and understandable. You won't hear me say that very often - and he overreacted quite a bit. But it was nice to see it addressed instead of just brushed under the rug as no big deal (which is a huge pet peeve of mine).
Both characters were a lot of fun. Laruen is sweet and sassy, while Steven was super protective but was still a bit of a softy. I loved the way the were together - anything and everything they did just screamed I love you and I trust you. There really were the best of friends and perfect for each other.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
In the Company of Wolves by Paige Tyler - Spotlight Tour and Giveaway
Title: In the Company of Wolves (SWAT #3)
Author: Paige Tyler
Release Date: December 1st, 2015
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense
He opened his mouth to order her to drop the MP5 she had
aimed at him, but nothing would come out. It was like she’d robbed him of the
ability to speak. Shooting her wasn’t an option, though. And the idea of
arresting her didn’t make him feel any better.
There's a new gang of criminals in town who are organized
and ruthless in the extreme. When Eric Becker, along with the rest of the Dallas
SWAT team, ends up in the middle of a shootout, he immediately senses
werewolves-a lot of them. Turns out, the new bad guys are a pack of wolf
shifters.
In a spray of gunfire, Becker comes face-to-face with the
most gorgeous woman he's ever seen. Becker does the logical thing. He hides her
and leaves the scene with the rest of his team.
Jayna Winston has no idea why that SWAT guy helped her, but
she's glad he did. Ever since she and her pack mates got mixed up with those
Eastern European mobsters, everything had pretty much fallen apart.
So what's a street-savvy thief like Jayna going to do with a
hot alpha-male wolf who's a police officer?
SWAT (Special Wolf Alpha Team) Series
Hungry Like the Wolf
Wolf Trouble
In the Company of Wolves
Paige Tyler:
Everyone loves reading about alpha males,
right? But of course, you can’t have a single dimensional character that’s just
hardcore alpha all the time. It comes off as flat or just plain irritating.
Most of the time you want to let your alpha have a lighter side, just to keep
things interesting. One of my favorite fun loving heroes from popular culture
is Han Solo!
This on-the-run-from-everyone bad boy of the Star
Wars series was played to perfection by Harrison Ford. He’s got the look and
physical size to play the alpha, and the way he wears his blaster slung low on
his hip makes you think about the gunfighters from the old west. But Han Solo
also has that casual relaxed attitude he wears like a tight-fitting T-shirt
just before violence breaks out. Think about how cool he is as he faces the
bounty hunter in the cantina scene. And as prone to violence as Han Solo can
be, he loves to crack jokes with just about everyone, especially when things
are at their most dire. We all remember the line, “Don’t get cocky, Kid!” I
have to admit, while everyone considered Luke Skywalker the “hero” of the
series, I always thought Han Solo was much hotter.
An Excerpt
One of the Albanians shouted something from the front of the
store in his own language, following it up with an order to the omegas to stop
wasting time and get the damn safe open. Becker ground his teeth. He should
have simply kidnapped Jayna and her entire pack. Then he could have just walked
into the loft and shot every one of these idiots—twice.
“Watch them,” he told Jayna, motioning to the security guard
and two women. Turning, he left the break room and jogged down the hallway
toward the back of the building.
“Get them back on the safe!” the Albanian driver shouted at
him from the front room.
Oh yeah, sure. Stop two morons from raping a woman and get
them back on task. What the hell was he—a daycare worker for omega werewolves?
Shit. If this was how criminals behaved, it was no wonder he
and his SWAT teammates took so many of them down. They were too stupid to live.
Then again, maybe this was how Gage felt some days.
The SWAT pack could
occasionally be a little stupid too. Becker’s current predicament was a shining
example of that.
The omega standing guard in the hallway outside the
manager’s office glared at him. “We got this. Go back and babysit the old
folks.”
What a complete ass, Becker thought as he walked up and
punched the guy in the face. The werewolf flew backward and bounced off the
wall, bleeding like crazy from a broken nose as he fell to the floor in a dazed
heap. He was still moving around though, reminding Becker that it was as hard
to knock out an omega as it was to knock out an alpha. He’d have to remember
that.
Becker strode into the office to find the store manager on
the floor beside her desk, the other omega—the one who liked to play with his
platinum medallion—leaning over her menacingly. He’d torn her blouse and was
telling her all the horrible things he planned to do to her if she didn’t open
the safe. The idiot was so intent on threatening her that he didn’t realize
Becker was there until he yanked the guy to his feet and spun him around, then
smashed the back of his head into the nearest hard object he could find—the
safe panel. Becker pounded his head into the safe a few times before letting
him fall to the floor. The asshole was definitely out cold.
Becker turned and looked at the shop manager. She cringed
away from him, terror in her eyes as she tried to hold the tatters of her
blouse together. He really wished he could pull up his ski mask. Seeing him
like this definitely wasn’t helping.
“Do you have an alarm button in this room?” he asked in his
softest, least intimidating voice.
The woman stared at him for a moment like he was insane,
then motioned under the desk with a shaking hand.
“Would you mind pushing it for me?” he asked.
Now she looked really confused. But she slowly reached under
the desk and poked around until a loud alarm started ringing.
“Thanks.” Becker bent down to take the platinum medallion
out of the omega’s vest and slip it into his pocket. “By the way, that diamond
merchant you bought from in New York sold you out to a really bad guy. You
probably don’t want to buy from him anymore.” Turning, he jogged out of the
room and down the hallway to the front of the store. “Time to leave. Moron hit
the alarm.”
Jayna was heading his way in a flash, the two Albanians
right behind her.
“What about the safe?” the driver asked.
Becker shook his head. “It’s a no-go. Our guy smashed the
keypad.”
The Albanians muttered something in their native language
and shook their heads, as if they’d seen this coming. They stepped over the
omega who was still rolling around in a daze on the floor in the hallway and
raced out the back door. In the distance, sirens echoed in the air. About damn
time. Becker motioned Jayna out.
“What about him?” she asked, jerking her head at the
werewolf still trying to get to his knees.
Becker nudged the omega with his boot, pushing him back
down. The guy looked like he really didn’t want to bother getting up this time.
“What about him?” Becker said, holding the door open for
her.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Crashed Out by Tessa Bailey - Review
First off, you need to know that this boy has quite the mouth on him. I swear every word out of his mouth was about sex! While it was kinda hot at first, I wish he'd had more to say. There had to be more going on in that head of his than music and sex! I really enjoyed his tortured artist feel - tortured by a girl he never had that he had to leave behind and now he can't get her out of his mind.
Title: Crashed Out (Made in Jersey #1)
Author: Tessa Bailey
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Rock & Roll
Length: 175 pages
Publisher: Entangled: Brazen
Release Date: December 7, 2015
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
His inspiration. His torment. And his temptation...
Jasmine Taveras is the reason Sarge Purcell grabbed his six-string and bailed the hell out of New Jersey four years ago. She's the fuel for every song he's ever written-each one laced with bitter, hard-edged, hungry lust. Now, with his hugely successful band on temporary hiatus, Sarge is determined to prove to Jasmine that this "kid" turned into every inch the man she's always needed...
Men are slim pickings for a single factory girl in Hook, New Jersey...until tall, broad-shouldered hotness walks-or rather storms-into Jasmine's life. Sarge's return shouldn't affect her this way. He's her best friend's much younger kid brother, and the kind of rough, gritty, sexiness Jasmine has no right to taste for herself. Even if he lets her.
But lust is a blinding, insatiable force. And when it crashes, it will take both Sarge and Jasmine down with it...
Jasmine was wonderful. She was sweet, sexy, hard working, talented, and just about anything else a guy could ask for in a girl. She seemed so different than Sarge, but they had some very serious chemistry that you could really feel coming right off the pages.
There was a great story line of reclaiming your past, living your dreams, and living with no regrets. But - the dialog just didn't cut it for me. While I'm all for a little dirty pillow talk, this was just a bit much for my taste.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Grand Master's Mate by Aurora Springer - Cover Reveal
Title: Grand Master's Mate (Grand Master's Trilogy #3)
Auhor: Aurora Springer
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
Release Date: December 6, 2015
Young empath, Violet Hunter, and her crafty Grand Master, Athanor Griffin, tackle the villains threatening civilization.
Their worst enemy, the Red Queen, rampages across the galaxy evading capture, while blocked portals restrict normal commerce among planets. Compounding their problems, half the Grand Masters on the Council fear Violet is the agent of their doom as her father foretold, and vow to eliminate her. To restore peace, Violet and Athanor embark on a dangerous quest for a weapon hidden by the ancient psychic masters on one of four planets. Yet, the weapon proves elusive, and new alliances forged with bizarre lifeforms may not be sufficient to stop their enemies and save civilization. Will Violet lose Athanor if she achieves her true destiny in the final confrontation with the Council?
Auhor: Aurora Springer
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
Release Date: December 6, 2015
Young empath, Violet Hunter, and her crafty Grand Master, Athanor Griffin, tackle the villains threatening civilization.
Their worst enemy, the Red Queen, rampages across the galaxy evading capture, while blocked portals restrict normal commerce among planets. Compounding their problems, half the Grand Masters on the Council fear Violet is the agent of their doom as her father foretold, and vow to eliminate her. To restore peace, Violet and Athanor embark on a dangerous quest for a weapon hidden by the ancient psychic masters on one of four planets. Yet, the weapon proves elusive, and new alliances forged with bizarre lifeforms may not be sufficient to stop their enemies and save civilization. Will Violet lose Athanor if she achieves her true destiny in the final confrontation with the Council?
Connect with Aurora Springer Online:
Friday, December 4, 2015
Reviewers Wanted!!
Bitten by Romance is looking for some fresh blood. We are looking for people who love to read, can commit to at least four reviews a month (or more if you're so inclined). Once we re-open our request form, I need you to commit to reading and reviewing any requests you take on within 14 days of receiving them.
Reviewing gives you some great opportunities to meet new authors and network with readers. The dangers? Well, your to be read pile will grow and grow and grow!!! Reviewing can be a lot of fun, but it is also a bit of work. We are looking for someone who can commit and stick with it.
If you're interested, please fill out the form below. If it isn't loading, just scroll to the bottom and there's a link that will open it in a new window for you.
Not sure if this is for you? Just shoot me an email with any questions - jasmyn.bitten@gmail.com
Click Here if the form isn't loading properly.
Reviewing gives you some great opportunities to meet new authors and network with readers. The dangers? Well, your to be read pile will grow and grow and grow!!! Reviewing can be a lot of fun, but it is also a bit of work. We are looking for someone who can commit and stick with it.
If you're interested, please fill out the form below. If it isn't loading, just scroll to the bottom and there's a link that will open it in a new window for you.
Not sure if this is for you? Just shoot me an email with any questions - jasmyn.bitten@gmail.com
Click Here if the form isn't loading properly.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Croc's Return by Eve Langlais - Review
Bitten Point is a great place - a little swamp city with a unique group of citizens. A city with quite a range of shifter residents. Caleb is finally coming home, but he is scarred inside and out from his time in the military. He doesn't know what to expect when he shows up after skipping out on his hometown and everyone he knew.
Title: Croc’s Return (Bitten Point #1)
Author: Eve Langlais
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 234 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 3, 2015
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
Coming home doesn’t always solve things … but it does pave the way for second chances.
Take one deadly bite and, bam, a man’s life is changed forever, or so Caleb discovers when a loss of control leads to him joining the military and leaving everything behind.
Time goes by … years spent silent and alone, cut off from those he loves. Until it’s time to come back, a scarred veteran, in many ways broken and looking for a meaning to his life. Perhaps it's not too late to right some wrongs. Make amends. Kiss a certain pair of sweet lips one more time.
If only Renny would damned well let him.
It doesn’t take Caleb long to realize Renny’s just the thing this croc needs to bring him back to life. Yet, what if he loses control again? He doesn’t want to take nibbling on her thighs to a whole new level.
Too bad, he can’t stay away, especially not when he discovers her secret. Add in a strange creature stalking the townsfolk and there is no way he’s leaving her alone.
Years ago it just about killed him to leave, but Caleb’s a changed man now. A darker kind of animal, and this retired soldier is ready to kill so he can stay.
Welcome to Bitten Point, where the swamp doesn't just keep its secrets, it sometimes eats them.
I really loved Caleb - he was a very down to earth and believable character - considering he could turn into a crocodile and all. His inner turmoil and struggles really made me want to give him some serious snuggles. But his snuggles are reserved for Renny.
Renny has had a hard time since Caleb left, and she's a bit pissed off about it too. She has grown into a strong woman that won't take crap from anyone or anything. She had just enough spunk, while still holding on to her soft side at times. A great mix.
But creepy things lurk in the swamp, things that defy imagination and explanation. When they venture too close to the people Caleb cares for - well, his crocodile has been itching for some fresh meat. I can see an overall story arc forming that looks to be quite exciting.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Can't Get You Off My Mind by Emma Roman - Review
A really fun take on the "must marry to inherit" theme. Three bachelor brothers stand to lose everything if they don't marry within a year. But wait! There's more! They can't just marry - they also have to have a kid. Talk about a crazy timeline! All in one year!! None of them take the news very well, I mean, who would? And as they all try to come up with some hair-brained scheme to meet the terms - Roark meets Zoe.
Title: Can’t Get You Off My Mind
Author: Emma Roman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 219 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
The rule: Get married and have a baby.
When Grandpa Stinson dies, he expects nothing more than to keep his grandsons together, running the family's multibillion-dollar business. But he's got just one unfaltering rule: they have to get married and have a baby first. The brothers disagree...wholeheartedly.
But it's set in stone. Follow the rule or you're the one grandson out of luck...
Stubborn, rugged, but oh-so-sexy, Roark Stinson, the oldest brother, refuses to give in to his grandfather's manipulations. After all, women are the root of all evil, and he's never witnessed a relationship that actually works. Then it hits him; it doesn't have to work.
Roark just needs a warm body to agree to the terms...
Zoe Morgan never wanted to be anyone's "means to an end," especially not Roark Stinson's. But his proposal is one she's in no position to refuse--can't refuse. When the stakes are this high, a warm body might just be exactly what she needs.
Maybe--just maybe--Grandpa Stinson knew exactly what he was doing...
Meets might not be the best way to describe their introduction. It was quite funny and a story they can tell their friends and family for years. It will never grow old. Roark is quite the sweetheart once you dig through all the crap in the way of getting to his heart.
This story is really all about the relationship. There is no huge outside suspense or drama. It's all about the people and learning to open up and let someone else in. To take that chance that just maybe you found your happily ever after in the place you least expected.
I can't wait to see what's in store for our next brother.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
In Search of Scandal by Susanne Lord - Review
This was fun, but a little drawn out. Will Repton is a famous explorer that collects plant seeds from far away places. This may not sound all that glamorous, but he's brought back several species that were completely new to Europe and is quite famous for it. Traveling through strange lands isn't nearly as glamorous as people seem to think. Will harbors some dark secrets and a quest to go back and try to make some things right.
Title: In Search of Scandal (London Explorers #1)
Author: Susanne Lord
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Release Date: December 1, 2015
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn
A DARING EXPLORER
All of London is abuzz with the tale of Will Repton. The lone survivor of a massacre in Tibet has returned to England a hero, but the traumatized explorer has no time for glory. Another dangerous expedition awaits. Nothing will deter him from his quest, and no one will unearth his secret—until Will meets Charlotte Baker.
IS NO MATCH FOR AN ADVENTUROUS HEART
Vivacious Charlotte Baker also has a mission—to find a man whose bold spirit matches her own. When she meets Will Repton, she immediately recognizes him as her soul mate, and she’s naively willing to turn her back on the rules of propriety to ensnare him. Will is torn between his fascination with Charlotte and his vow to finish his quest. He knows what it is to risk life and limb—but what if his most perilous adventure doesn’t lie across an ocean, but within his own lost heart?
Charlotte on the other hand, seems to be the belle of the ball. Everyone in the ton loves her and the men are all hoping to win her hand, if not her heart. But when she meets Will, she has eyes only for him. Unfortunately those eyes are clouded with dreams of a hero and explorer that will fall hopelessly in love with her and they can make moon eyes at each other for the rest of their days. She is not a silly girl at all - but she does come across as one many times.
I really enjoyed the dialog between Charlotte and Will. They were both very intelligent characters with strong opinions - that didn't always agree. With such different personalities it's hard to believe they could ever come together, but this is romance with an amazing HEA scene. The only part I didn't like was there was almost too many different conflicts surrounding the couple. There were at least four major issues that came and then went one after the other. There was so much going on that I had a hard time really feeling the danger/tension that any one of the created.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
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