Challenge: 50 Books discussion

Time to start reading for 2012!

My Favorite Books Read in 2011


A Discovery of Witches written by Deborah Harkness Alice Bliss written by Laura Harrington Best Kept Secret written by Amy Hatvany Night Road written by Kristin Hannah
The Name of the Wind written by Patrick Rothfuss
The Restorer written by Amanda Stevens
The Winter Rose written by Jennifer Donnelly

Favorite Classic Read in 2011

Jane Eyre written by Charlotte Bronte

Favorite Historical Romance Read in 2011

Devil in Winter written by Lisa Kleypas

My Worst Books Read in 2011

Chasing Fire written by Nora Roberts (not your typical action-packed romance written by this author)
Labor Day written by Joyce Maynard (kind of boring)
Mockingjay written by Suzanne Collins (the first 2 books in the trilogy were superb, but the last was very disappointing)
Vows written by LaVyrle Spencer (it was just an "okay" read for me)

Nice recap Nance. See you on the 2012 challenge!?

Books Read So Far in 2012!! 1-25


**1** Always Something There to Remind Me written by Beth Harbison (422 pgs) - finished 1/5/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**2** Darkfever (Fever #1) written by Karen Marie Moning (309 pgs) - finished 1/9/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**3** The Fault in Our Stars written by John Green (YA) (306 pgs) - finished 1/13/12 - 5 stars
**4** Bloodfever (Fever #2) written by Karen Marie Moning (268 pgs) - finished 1/15/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**5** Faefever (Fever #3) written by Karen Marie Moning (305 pgs) - finished 1/21/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**6** Dreamfever (Fever #4) written by Karen Marie Moning (388 pgs) - finished 1/25/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**7** Once a Good Girl... (Madrin Memorial #3) written by Wendy S. Marcus (184 pgs) - finished 1/29/12 - 5 stars
**8** Shadowfever (Fever #5) written by Karen Marie Moning (464 pgs) - finished 2/11/12 - 5 Stars (iPad)
**9** Wuthering Heights written by Emily Bronte (Classics) (326 pgs) - finished 2/21/12 - 4 stars
**10** Thorns of Eden written by Diana Ballew (317 pgs) - finished - 2/27/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**11** The Thirteenth Tale written by Diane Setterfield (406 pgs) - finished 3/2/12 - 4 stars
**12** Born in Sin (Brotherhood/MacAllister #3) written by Kinley MacGregor (410 pgs) - finished 3/8/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**13** Tess of the d'Urbervilles written by Thomas Hardy (464 pgs) - finished 3/10/10 - 4 stars
**14** The Endearment written by LaVyrle Spencer (340 pgs) - finished 3/11/12 - 4 stars
**15** Fifty Shades of Grey (Shades of Grey #1) written by E.L. James (528 pgs) - finished 3/14/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**16** Fifty Shades Darker (Shades of Grey #2) written by E.L. James (544 pgs) - finished 3/16/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**17** Fifty Shades Freed (Shades of Grey #3) written by E.L. James (592 pgs) - finished 3/17/12 - 5stars (iPad)
**18** The Nurse's Not-So-Secret Scandal (Madrin Memorial #3) written by Wendy S. Marcus (193 pgs) - finished 3/21/12 - 5 stars
**19** Sins of the Night (Dark-Hunter Series #7) written by Sherrilyn Kenyon (365 pgs) - finished 3/25/12 - 3 stars
**20** Unleash the Night (Dark-Hunter Series #8) written by Sherrilyn Kenyon (334 pgs) - finished 3/26/12 - 5 stars
**21** Lover Reborn (Black Dagger Brotherhood #10) written by J.R. Ward (572 pgs) - finished 4/3/12 - 5 stars
**22** Outside the Lines written by Amy Hatvany (308 pgs) - finished 4/6/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**23** On the Island written by Tracey Garvis Graves (283 pgs) - finished 4/8/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**24** To Seduce A Sinner (Legend of the Four Soldiers #2) written by Elizabeth Hoyt (261 pgs) - finished 4/9/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**25** Gabriel's Inferno written by Salvain Raynard (518 pgs) - finished 4/18/12 - 5 stars (iPad)

1. Always Something There to Remind Me written by Beth Harbison (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


Once upon a time you were ecstatically and completely in love with your high school sweetheart, but you were desperately seeking his undivided attention constantly so you decide to flirt with his best friend, which, in turn, met with devastating results. Now, fast forward to the present (twenty-three years later), do you ever forget that so-long-ago "love" that was essentially your soulmate while making you weak in the knees and causing your heart to thunder recklessly with anticipation and exhileration...even if you are about to agree to marry a hot sexy, but yet safe, attorney that thinks you are ultimately exquisite and so fundamentally right for him embellished with that "happily ever after" fairytale writing on the wall? Erin Edwards was deeply and irrevocably in love while in tenth grade with Nate Lawson, the handsomely striking yet somber bad boy with amazingly large and kind eyes. They shared everything with each - including their dreams to someday get married, have a family, and spend their lives together forever. But, as a result of Erin thinking time and time again that there was something or someone more interesting and exciting out there instead of the same old constant routine of hanging out with "the gang" and "partying" with Nate, she decides to brazenly test their relationship. Once I started reading this profoundly charming novel, I couldn't put it down. It had me reminiscing about my past high school crush, which was so important and life-changing at that age and time. I don't think you ever forget your first boyfriend or girlfriend, and what they meant to you at the time...treasured unforgotten memories during a special point in your life. This novel is for anyone that has experienced that never-forgotten high school first love while sometimes wondering what happened to them and what kind of life are they now living.

Some Expressively Genuine Quotes

pg. 269 - "The problem was that he'd never done anything that made me feel like he really wanted me. In some way, deep down, I had thought he had. I thought I'd known that was how he really felt about me, and the truth was he'd done a thousand little things to prove it - a thousand little things that would have been more than enough for the adult woman I'd become - but somehow they'd never added up, in my teenage mind, to mean the same as one single grand gesture." (Erin, now in the present, realizes how much Nate really did care for her when they were in high school while conversing with her daughter, Cam, and expressing her idea to her about not just giving herself over to a guy, but by letting the guy win her.)

pg. 345 - "The universe sends signs, even when we're too stupid or bullheaded to see them." (These can be good signs or bad signs. It just depends how you look at it Erin explains.)

pg. 346 - "Time had marched on and things had changed; being an adult wasn't nearly as exciting as being a kid looking forward to being an adult." (Erin concludes that time marches on and things change no matter what obstacles or achievements you encounter.)

pg. 372 - "If you love someone, you should make sure they know it every day and make even more sure you never hurt them in the name of gratifying your own ego." (Erin discusses her selfishness with her daughter about enjoying other boys flattering her with compliments, which, in turn hurts Nate deeply.)

pg. 389 - "I couldn't believe that after all this time it had taken that punk to show me that real love was quiet and steady, not showy and loud and self-congratulatory." (Erin realizes finally what love really is by witnessing someone else's selfish act.)

pg. 415 - "I'd rather love you and be alone than love you and be with her, or anyone." (Finally the moment that Erin has been waiting for...the moment when Nate presents his one single "grand gesture.")

2. Darkfever (Fever #1) written by Karen Marie Moning (Paranormal Romance) 4 stars


Meet MacKayla Lane...twenty-two years old with long luxurious blonde hair and piercing green eyes that bartends for a living and takes the occasional college course at the local community college. Her older sister, Aliana, is savagely murdered in Dublin, Ireland where she attends Trinity College while furthering her college education. "Mac", with her parents disapproval, packs a bag and travels to Dublin to identify her sister's body and avenge her murder. When she arrives in Dublin, she discovers that the police have given up on pursuing her sister's case due to lack of evidence. Mac will not hear of such a thing, so she begins to do her own investigating. Things just don't seem normal. Her sister's apartment had been ransacked, and everything was destroyed as if someone was looking for something. What kind of trouble was her sister in, and who had killed her, remains the mystery until she meets Jericho Barrons, the owner of the bookstore, Barrons Books and Baubles. Jericho, the mystifying impeccably dressed alpha-male with dark hair and eyes, is hiding secrets concerning a Dark Hallow book, the Sinsar Dubh, that belonged to the highly advanced race, Tuatha De' Danaan, that came to Earth from another world. As to who Mac and her sister really are and the secret mystery surrounding their existance, intrigues Jericho as he sets out to help Mac further unravel her sister's attempt to recover the Sinsar Dubh. The novel was an introduction to the world that author, Karen Marie Moning, created involving the paranormal world of fae that are Seelie(Light Court) and Unseelie (Dark Court). An intriguing encounter between two strong and passionate characters (Mac and Jericho) that are both entertainingly caring and intense in their own way during their quest for survival while looking for the truth behind the evil that lurks around every corner of the Dark Zone in Dublin. I enjoyed this novel immensely and am looking forward to immersing myself amongst the pages of the next installment to the series, Bloodfever.

I'm very upset to hear this about Mockingjay, yet I shall still give it a go!

Mackenzie wrote: "I'm very upset to hear this about Mockingjay, yet I shall still give it a go!"

Well, that's definitely just my opinion. A lot of people really liked it. My son is reading the trilogy now and is on Catching Fire, which he really loves. So, I'll see what his opinion is also when he is done. To each his own...right? I guess I was just expecting a little more to the ending than what actually occurred. Judge for yourself, though.

3. The Fault in Our Stars written by John Green (Young Adult) 5 stars


The new just released young adult novel written by author, John Green, does not disappoint. Full of memorable quotations set amongst the page of a sad tender love story between two young teenagers who are living their lives day-to-day while being victims of two different types of cancer...brandishing enough humor and belief that they will lick this fatal disease. The novel is told in the first person narration of 16-year-old cancer survivor, Hazel Grace Lancaster who totes around her oxygen tank wherever she goes to backup her horrible set of lungs. Hazel meets Augustus Waters, a 17-year-old boy who once suffered a bout of osteosarcoma a year and a half ago, at "The Support Group" for teenagers experiencing the disease or in remission. When setting eyes on Augustus, Hazel is immediately attracted to the witty and good-looking young man. He is comedic and makes fun of the disease while admitting that he is afraid of "oblivion". Hazel immediately responds to the group with an excerpt from her favorite book, "An Imperial Affliction", about how the author appears to understand what it is like to be dying, not to have died. Augustus is impressed with this little speech, and in the weeks to come, the two become inseparable. The novel reveals many significant questions that people facing the end of their life exhibit. So many thought-provoking inspirations were affirmed between the two main characters and their families who were agonizing with grief to see these two young people dying, especially when they simply couldn't do anything else to stop this disease from claiming their loved ones. Such a sad, but yet happy novel for these two young people to have found each other while looking death straight in the eyes. Mr. Green wrote a novel that will stay with me for quite a long time. The understanding and compassion that he exhibited during the penning of this novel was expressed wholely. A novel full of heartache and tears, with courage and strength to endure even the sorrowfullest situations. I really loved his novel Looking for Alaska, but this time he really outdid himself. Astoundingly beautiful!

Memorable Quotations

pg. 217 - "There is no honor in dying of." (Augustus says that there is no meaning to dying from something like a disease because there is no glory in dying of an illness.)

pg. 236 - "Nostalgia is a side effect of dying." (I can't really elaborate on this quotation because it would give away the ending of the novel.)

pg. 272 - "Without pain, we couldn't know joy." (A great quote in Gus's house.)

pg. 286 - "Grief does not change you, Hazel. It reveals you." (The author of "An Imperial Affliction" admits his reason behind writing the book.)

pg. 312 - "The real heroes anyway aren't the people doing things; the real heroes are the people NOTICING things, paying attention." (Gus's letter to Von Houten discussing a reason for Von Houten to someday write Hazel's eulogy.)

pg. 313 - "You don't get to choose if you get hurt in this world, old man, but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices. I hope she likes hers." (Gus's acknowledging loving Hazel.)

The title of the book definitely reiterates the lines from Julius Caesar written by William Shakespeare "Men at sometime were masters of their fates./The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars,/But in ourselves, that we are underlings."(l.ii.140-142). Certain events are beyond human control. To face death head-on is perhaps the best course when chosing to die honorably and bravely.

4. Bloodfever (Fever #2) written by Karen Marie Moning (Paranormal Romance) 4 stars


As the saga progresses on in "Bloodfever", we join Mac as she is reeling from the fact that both her and her sister, Alina, are adopted. As she asks herself the questions "who am I?", "where did I come from?" and, the ulimate, "who are my parents?", Mac is very insecure as to what kind of meaning her life really has. As the story continues, she is also adjusting to her sidhe-seer powers, and learning who she can trust and who she cannot. In the first book of the series, we meet Jericho Barrons, the charismatic and secretative owner of the bookstore Barrons Books & Baubles. In Book 2, Jericho still has not divulged who and what he really is yet to Mac's disappointment. The ultimate quest to get her hands on the Sinsar Dubh, a book of black magic that was written by the Unseelie King which holds the powerful key to the Fae and Man worlds, is what Mac so wishes to possess. While searching for the black magic book, Mac stumbles upon several characters that are also interested in the book...V'Lane, a Seelie prince who is erotically sexual is searching for the black book for his Queen...Rowena, headmistress of the sidher-seer organization who was in possession of the Sinsar Dubh until it escaped...Lord Master, liberator of the imprisoned Unseelie, possible murderer of Mac's sister, Alina...and Malluce, an evil vampire who murdered his rich parents, who, now works closely with the Lord Master. As she searches for the book, and comes upon many secrets, Mac realizes that gone are the days when she is the "rainbow" girl. She's not going to be able "to play" nice, and wear her fancy and feminine clothes that she is used to with her high-heels and fingernails so beautifully polished. It's time to put on her "don't mess with me" attitude while toting around her newly acquired Spear of Luin, one of only two weapons capable of killing immortal Fae, and show the Fae that she is not messing around anymore. The author does not hold back her comical side by also letting Mac experience somewhat funny situations while she figures out pretty quickly what works for her...i.e. numberous flashlights always on her for protection against the Shade. There is still quite a bit of tension and distrust between the two characters of Mac and Jericho. But, they seem to have each other's back when relatively necessary. I enjoyed the second book even more so than the first...exploding with action, containing some erotic sexual innuendos, and harboring imaginative plotlines in the paranormal genre...immensely different than just your basic vampire/human novel. Great series, Ms. Moning!!!

5. Faefever (Fever #3) - written by Karen Marie Moning (Paranormal Romance) 5 stars


Thank God that I didn’t read this book when it first came out because at the end, there is a magnificently mind-blowing cliff-hanger that would have me cursing at the stars!!! The book was just so blazingly hot with all its seedy and courageous characters each cavorting with their own agenda to adher to. We again encounter Mac, a null sidhe-seer, trying to find that damn dark book, The Sinsar Duhb, which causes excrutiating pain to her head while totally debilitating her powers when it is near. It is constantly on the prowl...just where it will turn up next, is the question. And where is her protector, the handsomely hot and evasive Jericho Barrons? Why right where he has been since Mac arrived in Dublin, fighting along side her and bailing her ass out of beastly situations. Mac still is wondering exactly what is Barrons and how he’s involved in the fae/human crisis. He seems to be rich...just look at his extravagant selection of cars, the fact that he is sole owner of his bookstore (Barrons Books and Baubles), along with his passion to collect antiques. The man is rolling in it!!! But, there is something that Barrons is hiding, and Mac wants to know what that is. Mac’s whole pink and cheery womanlike persona has changed. Gone are the beautiful playful skirts and high-heeled shoes, replaced by dark-colored clothing and comfortable shoes made for fighting monsters and psychotic rogues. While investigating her sister’s demise, she also meets Christian, a Scottish Druid, who worked where her sister, Alina, went to college. Christian’s heritage is impressive. He is part of a family that protects the walls that separate the fae world and the human world. V’lane, the sex-by-association Seeley prince, is still around flaunting his erotic magnetism when tangling with Mac. And let’s not forget the Lord Master...the person Mac holds responsible for Alina’s death. Mac still has an eye on him, and is just waiting for the right moment to pounce on the sucker. Encountering the jerk is high on her to-do list, but at what price will Mac pay for that soon-to-be barbaric meeting. That’s the disturbing and elicit cliff-hanger at the end of the novel that has everyone mad and also in disbelief as to how Mac will recover after such a brutal and mind-altering attack. So, glad that I waited to read this series when its near the author’s completion. It was just scintillatingly exciting! Next up, Dreamfever, Book 4 in the amazing Fever Series...can’t wait!!!

6. Dreamfever (Fever #4) - written by Karen Marie Moning (Paranormal Romance) 5 stars


Dreamfever begins where Faefever left off with MacKayla Lane now being controlled by the Lord Master after a terrifying encounter in a church that leaves “Mac” broken and painfully damaged emotionally as well as physically. Jericho Barrons to the rescue!! I love this series with its courageous heroine, Mac, along with her splendidly tattooed and alluringly mysterious “friend”, Jericho Barrons. This paranormal series is like no other that I have read before with the author’s tight grasp on sucking the reader in while engaging in details that entice like no other. Her imagination is simply brilliant!! The only complaint that I have is the couple of chapters that are dedicated to Mac’s young friend, Dani. Where did they come from and why? They just don’t seem to fit in amongst Mac’s story, and when each chapter began, it was a little confusing as to who was speaking because they were in the first person narrative along with Mac’s chapters. I guess the only reason that I can come up with is because after the fifth book of the series, Dani will have a three-book series of her own. Maybe that’s why the author saw fit to ease the reader into some glimpses of the young Irish sidhe-seer. But, other than that, the novel moves right along with its further intrigue to who and what Jericho Barrons really is and the provocative relationship that Mac and he will eventually have together. V’lane still is hanging around with his essentially mystical persona that keeps Mac guessing as to whether or not she can trust the Seeley prince. Where do his loyalties lie...with his queen or in doing what he morally thinks is right? The powerful dark book, The Sinsar Dubh, is still on the prowl tracking Mac’s every move. Where will it turn up next and just how powerful is it? And, will Mac finally eliminate the one person whom she holds accountable for her sister’s demise? Looking forward to immersing myself into the pages of the next book of the series, Shadowfever. Will Mac and Barrons along with their unusual cast of characters succeed in keeping the walls errected that separate the fae and human world?

7. Once a Good Girl... (Madrin Memorial #2) written by Wendy S. Marcus (Medical Romance) 5 stars


Author, Wendy Marcus, does not disappoint with the second medical romance from her Madrin Memorial Hospital series titled, “Once a Good Girl...”. It’s overflowing with tender feelings for a young love that was lost, while trying to capture that magnetic electrifying spark that now could ignite it to a “happily ever after”. Victoria Forley is the epitome of hard-working. Nothing could remotely ever stand in her way to show the people of Madrin Falls that she is more than capable of becoming the new Director of Nursing at the hospital even without a diploma from a distinguished university, despite the fact that her father is on the Board of Directors. Kyle Karlinsky, now turned Physical Therapist, was the dark, pale blue-eyed rough-around-the-edges hellion that caught Victoria’s heart in high school nine years ago. Just recently returning to Madrin Falls from an alleged past circumstance that yielded to Kyle’s abrupt departure from the small town, Victoria learns that Kyle, along with his therapy dog Tori, is the newly hired member of physical therapy for “her” hospital, which she is not thrilled about. Unbeknownst to Kyle, Victoria gave birth to their son, Jake, precisely nine years ago. Through endless determination and unconditional love, Victoria has worked to give Jake the life that he so richly deserves...fullfilling both acolades as mother and father. Kyle now wants to be an eminent part of Jake’s life while still harboring unresolved feelings for Victoria. He wants to resume their relationship, while she is just not sure where the relationship will lead...whereby, designating it her first priority to try and protect Jake’s heart from getting hurt should Kyle take off and leave again. There are many poignant heartfelt moments throughout the novel that the reader will find sweet and touching. Ms. Marcus’s ability to combine steamy romance and raw emotion amidst the backdrop of the medical romance genre was very entertaining and passionate. I enjoyed reading about the two main characters, Victoria and Kyle...her being the protective and sometimes know-it-all that was living the life of a single mom while doing the best she could for her young son, and him being the just recently realized new dad that was trying to fit in and make a good impression on his son while trying to win his soulmate’s heart. Will this couple reunite back together, completing the family that young Jake so desperately wants and needs? Looking forward to reading the next installment to the series with Roxie’s story. Two thumbs up!!

8. Shadowfever (Fever #5) written by Karen Marie Moning (Paranormal Romance) 5 stars


Wow!!! What can I say about this novel, the 5th installment of the “Fever” series? It’s just fantastic with loads of twists and turns throughout the novel, which kept me reading until late in the night to uncover the mysterious and dark secrets that will finally reveal Mac’s utter existance. As we now encounter null sidhe-seer, Mac, she is suffering emotionally and physically with the reality that she has done the viciously unspeakable to the dark and handsomely mysterious, Jericho Barrons (which, I will not divulge because it gives away an essential act that was committed from the previous book, Dreamfever). Now Mac feels that Jericho let her down because he always said that he would protect her, and he was unable to do so recently. The novel moves along as Mac comes to terms as to what she has done and also how she will finally take revenge on her sister’s murderer. She is still busy trying to hunt the Sinsar Dubh...or is the book hunting her? There are many secrets revealed that I had not seen coming, which had pleasantly surprised me...whereby, I have to be careful as to not divulge while writing this review. This was definitely the best book of the series thus far, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book, which I hear will be sometime because the author is writing a three-book “Fever” spin-off series surrounding the characters of Dani, Christian and Ryodan. I think now I will take a stab at reading her “Highlander” series for the time being. If you are an enormous fan of the “Fever” series, you will not be disappointed with the addition of this novel to the series...simply magnificent!!!!

9. Wuthering Heights written by Emily Bronte (Classics) 4 stars


This is the second classic novel that I have read written by a Bronte sister...the first one being “Jane Eyre”, which was written by Charlotte. The novel depicts the story between Catherine Earnshaw, an intensely vibrant beautiful, yet socially driven young woman, and Heathcliff, a powerfully cruel and abusive orphan that was brought home by Cathy’s father from Liverpool, England when the story first begins. Miss Bronte describes the setting of the novel to be somewhat gothic with a bleak and dreary moorish countryside as the backdrop that illustrates the whereabouts of the two family estates, Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange...The Earnshaws and The Lintons. Cathy and Heathcliff grow up together, along with Cathy’s brother Hindley, becoming inseparable, much to Hindley’s horror. Hindley resents Heathcliff’s presence, and after finally returning from college some years later with a wife in tow, decides to seek revenge on Heathcliff after Mr. Earnshaw’s untimely death. Still to Cathy’s delight, the two confidants continue their adventures together, which leads them to Thrushcross Grange, the home of the Lintons. Cathy becomes infatuated with the son, Edgar, after a dog bite mishap, and decides that she and Edgar are worthy of committing to a lifetime of marriage together. Heathcliff is deeply hurt with Cathy’s decision and decides to leave Wuthering Heights not returning for three years. During his time away, Cathy marries Edgar and moves to Thrushcross Grange, while Hindley leads a drunken life with his young son in his care because of the death of his wife, Frances. When Heathcliff returns, he seeks revenge towards Cathy for her decision to marry Edgar, but Cathy admits to still being passionately in love with Heathcliff. Will their true love survive the absence that these two individuals have experienced for the past few years? Or, will circumstances keep them apart while driving wedges between their respective families and their counterparts? The novel is told through flashbacks with Nelly Dean, a woman engaged to be Catherine’s charge at Wuthering Heights, and Mr. Lockwood, an occupant at Thrushcross Grange during the final demise of the strong and powerful, Heathcliff. As far as whether or not I liked the book, it is hard to say. I thought that the novel was especially difficult to read with its old-English verbage and Miss Bronte’s continued thoughts assumed not written. It also was not as compassionately told as the romantically likeable characters of Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester in “Jane Eyre”. But at times, I did found myself picking the book up repeatedly to find out what was going to happen next. Did I think that Cathy, the elder, was a snob and a bit whiny? Of course I did, but I think that was how the author had every intention of portraying the character as a social climber, but in conflict with two possible suitors. Did I think that Heathcliff was abusive and evil? Of course I did to that question also. Miss Bronte didn’t want him to be the golden-haired perfect romantic hero that we so much associate with English literature. He does not reform himself as the novel progresses either...leading the reader to question whether or not he is a malevolent villain ultimately seeking the love of his life. In addition to the two main characters, there are other background characters that serve to further intrigue the reader while moving the story along to its final destiny...the definitive outcome of Heathcliff’s revenge.

10. Thorns of Eden written by Diana Ballew (Historical Romance) 4 stars


Was this author, Diana Ballew’s, first novel? I am positively nodding and saying, “Yes” it was with an appreciative smile on my face. Ms. Bellow creates an exciting and romantically enticing addition to the historical romance genre with her new novel, “Thorns of Eden”. The novel takes place during one of America’s most pivotal time in history, The Civil War, which pits countryman against countryman fighting for the right of slavery and the additional quest for each state to decide and create its own laws. It was also a very romantic time in America’s history with the womenfolk pining for the men off fighting as a means to support either the North or the South. Not so much was thought about losing one’s life, but more was thought about fighting for their specific cause regardless of the final outcome. In this particular novel, the author does not deviate from the heroine, Eden Blair, being a strong and independent beauty supporting and doing what she can to help the cause in the South. Eden has lost her father and is afraid for her brother, Isaac, who is now off fighting with his friend, Jimmy, while leaving his wife, Lucy, behind. As the novel progresses, Eden meets and is at first seemingly revolted by the audicity of the devishly handsome Major Rayce Hampton when it comes to his forward and disrespectful manner. When Eden realizes that Rayce is her sister-in-law’s cousin, she decides to give the man a chance and ends up not being to forget his smoldering and desirable advances towards her. The novel is filled with tender and explicit moments between the lovers that leaves the reader holding their breath for want of more contact between the two. Looking forward to reading more from this very promising and authentic author.

11. The Thirteenth Tale written by Diane Setterfield (Mystery/Historical Fiction) 4 stars


“I have always been a reader; I have read at every stage of my life, and there has never been a time when reading was not my greatest joy.”, quote from “The Thirteenth Tale” written by Diane Setterfield.

That quotation is so true in reference to myself and others alike, and this book, does not disappoint when it comes to the ever-present English gothic style genre projected within its pages. Books have always been my passion’s delight, and this novel shows the very unique style of writing used to capture the reader’s attention from the very first page. Before I began the novel, I read mixed reviews from past readers...some loving the powerful and intense novel with its dark and often strangely disturbing characters, while others were not intrigued with the author’s drama and claimed that there was not much of a story to be had. I, myself, was drawn into the “tale” from the very first pages with its female lead, Margaret Lea, a bookstore owner’s daughter who, within the first few pages of the novel, receives a written request to pen a famous author’s, Vida Winter, biography, who, by the way, has a very painful and unknown past. The story is told in flashbacks during Vita’s past teenage life and her now present elderly life where she has become feeble and frail. Death is the main catalyst in the destruction of many of the characters’ lives that grace the pages of the novel, which is caste from the existance of the two sets of twins that reside in both Vida’s past and Margaret’s present, while the title of the novel craves the reader to search amongst the pages for the answer as to what exactly is “The Thirteenth Tale”.The story holds the reader’s attention through the various twists and turns with significant characters emerging that add mystery and melodrama that create diversions from the explosive conclusion. This would be an excellent bookclub discussion novel because of its many themes, including the numerous references to “Jane Eyre” (another brilliant English gothic novel), incorporated within its pages in addition to its perplexing characters battling their demons of sex and incest, along with physical and mental abuse. So looking forward to see what Ms. Setterfield has in store for us next with her new novel, which is rumored to be out in 2013...waiting patiently!!

12. Born in Sin (Brotherhood/MacAllister #3) written by Kinley MacGregor (Historical Romance) 5 stars


This was my first read from Historical Romance author Kinley MacGregor, and boy did it not disappoint! Sin is the hero in this novel, and a brooding chivalrous specimen of fine musculinity he is. Caledonia MacNeeley is the heroine who is generous and fearless with a trustingly compassionate soul. The two are ordered to be joined in marriage by the English King, but neither have a desire to so. Sin because of his current distaste with the Scottish that began during his childhood, and Callie because of her despisement of existent English rule. Will these two be joined in holy matrimony? Well, it stands to reason that, “Yes”, it will eventually happen but under life-altering changes for both. And, so goes the story of Sin and Callie’s romantically passionate story entertwined with a love so heartfelt and riveting. Exiled from the Scottish family that he was born into, Sin MacAllister loathes the heritage that claims him. His loyalties lie with King Henry and the English, and when told that he will marry a red-haired beauty from a Scottish clan, he does everything in his power to dissuade the young passionate vixen from the impending nuptials. But, Callie decides that she will sacrifice her honor for the goodwill of her clan so that the fighting with the English will result in a standstill with no more unmerciful bloodshed. What Sin and Callie eventually find together is a love so rare and powerful whereby they each realize that their “unwelcomed” arranged union is meant to be forever. The novel is a beautiful romantic story brimming with deep emotion and yearning for a love so breathtakenly magical. This is definitely one of my most favorite historical romance stories. Loved the hero, Sin!! He was the notorious highland soldier that was branded a demon by legend. Who would have have thought that he, a cold black-hearted rogue, would ever experience this depth of feeling towards another individual? Callie just brought out the best in him, and with that she was also vulnerable to his hidden charm and wit. Can this pair survive the hardships and tough decisions that come with being from two different backgrounds? Read this novel and you will fall in love with Sin too, while also rooting for Callie to get her man. A novel not to be missed!!!

13. Tess of the d'Urbervilles written by Thomas Hardy (Classics) 4 stars


When first encountering the title of this novel penned by auther, Thomas Hardy, I thought that Tess of the d’Urbervilles belonged to an English aristocratic family. So you can just imagine my surprise when it was revealed early on that Tess’ social status was that of a poor underprivileged damsel lacking even the simplest amount of education. With that being said, Mr. Hardy creates the classic Victorian story of Tess Durbeyfield filled with deceit, murder, seduction, religion, and family values, which to some degree, is a tragedy of sorts. Tess is a beautiful young girl that lives with her poor family in the small village of Merlott. Her family believes that they have a heritage that is rich in aristocratic royalty. But, unknown to Tess and her family, they are not actually related to nobility. Days later there is an accident that kills the family’s only horse, and they find that they must send Tess to work at the nearby d’Urberville mansion tending to the elder Mrs. d’Urbervilles’ fowls. While, at the estate, Tess meets Alec d’Urberville, and he becomes smitten with Tess. His attraction leads him to take advantage of her ending in devastating consequences. As a result, Tess retreats home, but eventually leaves to find work elsewhere so that the family can survive. Soon she finds work at a dairy farm, and creates lasting friendships with three other women who are employed there. While working at the farm, she also meets a man, Angel Clare, who she is infatuated with. Angel feels the same way about her, but Tess will not commit to him because of her past indiscretion. She is worried that Angel will be ashamed of her, and she cannot deal with the frank possibility of hurting him. The couple does eventually marry, but past secrets from both of the couple are shared during their wedding night, which result with both hearts breaking. As the novel nears its end, Tess makes a difficult decision to take comfort with the apparent villain, Alec, while Angel finally comes to his senses. The ending, which was somewhat of a shock to me when it was finally revealed, further complicates things for Tess and Angel, whereby resulting in the ultimate outcome of tragedy and pain.

I did enjoy this novel, but I was very often angry with Angel and his perfect holier-than-thou attitude. He just would not give one inch when it came to Tess begging him to forgive her for the past episode that occurred which she had no control of. I really don’t want to say what it is because it would give away a vital detail of the story, but he was not very forgiving, and when he decided to forgive her, it was definitely a little to late. It was kind of like, “Okay Angel, enough of your crap. You love her. She loves you. Just forgive the girl and move on, alright?” Meanwhile in Tess’s defense, she did everything that she possibly could by “coming clean” with the truth and assuring him that she was sorry and that she was suffering as well...i.e. writing to him every day and asking for his forgiveness. But, in the long run he was just too judgmental, which could have possibly been derived from his family’s strong religious background. I did enjoy the scandalous character Alec, who just was after whatever he could take from the naive, Tess. I could just picture the man with one of those sinister-looking thin mustaches brandishing an evil smirk on his face so sure of himself while thinking that he was untouchable because of his family’s social status. Tess obviously did not know how to put the man in his place. When you think of it, though, during the time period when the novel takes place, it was uncharacteristic for a woman to refuse a man basically anything or know how to deal with an undesirable situation, especially when Tess thought the Alec was from a noble background. As I reflect back on my reading of the novel, it comes to mind that Tess was definitely controlled by many characters in the book, Alec (the person who tarnishes the pure and trusting Tess), Angel (the unforgiving and unreasonable husband), and her mother (a disappointing, but yet supportive woman). She always was trying to do the right thing, even if she was the one who suffered in the end. That is, until the final act occurs during the last section of the novel, whereby she resolves that she cannot bear to live without Angel.

This novel was not an easy read, but I would find myself wanting to learn what difficult situation was up next for poor Tess. Her life was not very fair during most of the novel...between the poverty of her family, the way that Alec physcially abused her, and Angel’s condescending and critical emotional verbal abuse. A novel not to be missed! Judge for yourself. I will definitely pursue reading some of Mr. Hardy’s other works with high expectations.

14. The Endearment written by LaVyrle Spencer (Historical Romance) 5 stars


Author, LaVyrle Spencer, embraces historical romance like a breath of fresh air. Refreshing as to the sense that her characters come alive on the pages of this novel with compassion and courage to embrace the unknown. Anna Reardon travels to the Minnesota frontier along with her brother, James, towards her future husband, Karl Lindstrom, as a mailorder bride. While corresponding with her intended, she has fabricated a few details about herself. Now scared of her soon-to-be-husband’s discovery of to what degree she has gone to to concoct the lies that she has written him, she embarks on crossing the country in the long journey from her former home in Boston. When finally reaching her destination in Minnesota, she is shocked by Karl’s enormous size and stunning blonde good looks. Soon after meeting the Swedish woodsman, however, Anna realizes that there is no reason to be afraid of Karl. Hopefully he will understand her deceptions and accept her for who she really is. Karl is no dummy,however, and within the first few chapters, most of the lies are revealed except for one major deceit. As the novel progresses on, the couple does marry and learn to rely on each other while bracing the harsh Minnesota terrain. The novel rendered some humurous situations while Anna was learning to adjust to being a “housewife” in the midwest. Her mishaps with cooking and trying to make a fire in the fireplace were very entertaining, but also endearing. She really tries so hard to make Karl happy so that he won’t regret marrying her. Her brother adapts nicely to the fact that he has a real home along with Karl to take an interest in him. In fact, James feels that Karl is more like a father instead of just a brother-in-law. James admiringly looks up to Karl and worships the ground he walks on. What will happen when the final shoe drops and Anna’s last explosive deceptive lie comes into play? Will Karl forgive her and move on with a life together as a family? Or, will he abandon the only good thing that has come into his life since leaving Sweden and moving to Minnesota? I enjoyed this novel immensely. It had me rooting for the happy couple to stay together and embark on their rugged adventure while discovering a bittersweet love so real and passionate. Karl needed Anna as much as she needed him so he wouldn’t have to face the unknown challenges of the desolute midwest alone. Just read this romantically touching novel, and it will make you appealingly sigh when the bride and groom finally realize that there is something so magically special about their shared love for one another.

15. Fifty Shades of Grey (Shades of Grey #1) written by E.L. James (Erotic Romance) 5 stars


Wow, wow, and wow is all that I can say about this book! Is it as good as everyone (women I’m talking about) says it is? Yes, and then some!!! (Warning – this novel is a BDSM erotically charged romance. So, if it’s not something that you are comfortable reading or offends you, don’t attempt it). I first heard of the novel while watching “Good Morning America” this week. The woman doing the piece on authur E.L. James’ novel, was saying how hot and steamy the book was and how it is the latest “mommy porn” to have hit the bookshelves. Well, not being one to really have read too many erotic romances, I figured what the heck, download it to my iPad and give it a go, which considering that day also was my birthday, I could do anything that I wanted, HA! Well, I read the first book in the trilogy, Fifty Shades of Grey, in record speed...a day and a half, and fell right into the next book only to take time out to sleep in the early morning hours.

And, thus, the novel tells the story of Anastasia Steele, a college student who does an interview for the college newspaper, taking the place of her roommate, Kate, who is home ill. The interview is focused on the business conglomerate mogul Christian Grey, who is one fantastically beautiful man to the “naked” eye. When one meets this gorgeous specimen, you have to blink, rub your eyes, and make sure that you are not dreaming because he’s that hypnotizing. “Ana” is so in awe of the man, that she embarrasses herself quite a few times in the short time that she is in Christian’s company. When finished with the interview, she is happy that it’s over and doesn’t have to see Christian again. To Ana’s surprise, he tracks her down in a very “accidental” nonchalant way, which further intrigues her. Eventually the two embark in a highly intensive explicit relationship, which is foreign to Ana because of her lack of experience in the romance department. She is a virgin in every sense of the word.

Now I’m not going to sit here and tell you all that transpires between the couple romantically, emotionally, or sexually, but I will tell you that its super erotic and electrically charged with a sadly secretive story in the foreground that sheds some light on the twisted and abusive past concerning Christian, who also has trust and commitment issues. He, in no sense of the word, likes to be touched at all, and, “Why?” asks Ana. “Because I’m fifty shades of f***ed up,” responds Christian. So, what happened in Christian’s past that is so devastating? For all intense purposes, that is the ultimate question to be answered eventually.

So, now after giving a short synopsis of the novel, I confess that I did like how the story was developed – it was different then one of your short novella-type romances with the get-down-and-dirty sex within the first few pages of the story so that you have to rush to the end because the story is finished in 180 pages or so. This actually did tell a story with real characters that had real issues brewing to explode upon the pages of this ultimately sizzling novel. Within the pages also, were multiple references to the classic novel, Tess of the d’Urbervilles, which was such a coincidence to me because I had just finished reading that novel two days before. How strange? The references to that novel, compares the two main male characters to that of Christian’s character in this novel. And, if you have read Tess, then you will understand the referenced comparisons. All I can say is that it was definitely an emotionally charged read that had me staying up long into the night trying to figure out how their relationship would endure their trials and tribulations or, if they actually had any real type of relationship at all. Don’t miss this excitingly provocative novel by first-time author, E.L. James. Okay now enough writing. Onto the next book to see what Ana and Christian are up to now.

16. Fifty Shades Darker (Fifty Shades #2) written by E.L. James (Erotic Romance) 5 stars


I’m still loving Ana and Christian along with all his fifty shades as book two in this scorchingly hot series continues. Christian with his strikingly “dom” nature is finding himself falling for Ana and at a loss as to why this astonishingly attractive young woman has taken to getting under his skin. He just can’t stop thinking about her and things are happening to him that is out of that male domineering persona that he has so closely guarded. He finds himself disclosing bits and pieces of his past to her more and more by answering her curious and brazen questions. She actually does not take any crap from the man, and, in the long run, he respects her strong and bold temperment towards him. This magnificiently gorgeous man also opens up Ana’s world to her inexperience of romance along with his hardcore sexual appetite that has been a big part of his private life. While reading along, I found myself mesmerized by Christian’s bold and masculine power, but yet swooning from his piano playing sensitive side. Yes, he was bossy and, at times, overbearing, but, there was nothing that he wouldn’t do for Ana...usually seeing her side eventually. Ana could be often times annoying and whiny, but she really did have Christian’s complete interest at heart. I sometimes had enough of the author constantly referring to Ana’s “inner goddess”. Their sexual encounters were still scintillatingly hot and steamy, but at times innocently tender and sweet. He really did want to take care of her, but because he was so scared that she would leave him, which was shown most recently, he unknowingly smothered her. There is also another storyline that is also being weaved throughout the pages which is unsuspectingly taking shape. This pertains to Ana’s job at the publishing firm that she now works for. What kind of effect to the pair will this introduce? Ms. James’ ability to keep the reader interested and entertained in this series has been astoundingly fascinating. At the end of each chapter, I would say to myself, “Okay one more chapter, and I’m done for the night.” But, then I would get to the end of the chapter, and have to keep turning those sizzling pages because it would just suck me back in...just so engrossing!! Needless to say, I didn’t get much sleep in the seven days that it took me to read the trilogy...lol!! All in all, I think it’s safe to say that I won’t be able to look at a grey tie (or a billiard table, or elevator, or piano, or practically any other piece of furniture) without thinking of this novel...lol! Whoever reads this trilogy will be enflamed with lust and desire when they first encounter the heartstopping Mr. Grey. Is there really such a desirable human male living amongst us? Who knows;)

17. Fifty Shades Freed (Fifty Shades #3) written by E.L. James (Erotic Romance) 5 stars


The last and final installment to British author E.L. James’ Fifty Shades trilogy does not disappoint. Christian finally decides that Ana is the only woman for him, and doesn’t pull no punches by telling her so. He wants to spend the rest of his life with her, and her alone. No other woman will ever be for him, but is that also true for Ana? Will Ana think that she could ever possibly fulfull Christian’s passionate erotic desires, which includes his ultimate sexual turn-on to his male “dominating” persona? Well, you will just have to open the book to see the explosive final ending to this fantastic piece of erotically-charged tender love story. With Christian and Ana now married, we see more glimpses of their maturity as a couple. Ana, while wanting to be independent and her own person, also wants to make Christian happy by pleasing him in any way that she can. Christian wants to give Ana everything and be the man that she desires so that she will never have a reason to leave him. The physical walls around Christian that he built up during his past finally come crashing down when he is more and more comfortable with Ana displaying her intimacy and passion with the sense of touch. Now, don’t get me wrong, Christian is still his same old bossy controlling self, but it’s in a more compassionate-laced way. He genuinely loves Ana and is trying to be more reasonable and less domineering. They also finally learn who is trying to kill them, and it’s a shock to Christian how this individual is connected to his past, which incidentally is shear coincidence that he/she is also associated with Ana’s job. During this book, the sexual encounters that were so newly earth-shattering to both individuals have now cooled to a more intimate and forever loving revelation. Their present relationship is very believable as a married couple when faced with a life-altering circumstance that both characters were not really for. Christian’s relationship also moves to a more normal personal level with his family members. And, the past relationship with “Mrs. Robinson” is finally put to rest. Many unselfish and thought-provoking decisions are made which just enhances the readers to the fact that “yes” they have grown and developed as a couple since the beginning of the trilogy in Fifty Shades of Grey. I just loved the little ditty at the end of the novel from Christian’s point-of-view on how he was so attracted to Ana when they first met, and also the chapter on “Fifty’s” first Christmas when he resides with his newly adopted family...so sweet! I will definitely miss Ana and Christian along with their supportive and loyal family members and friends. Hopefully, we have not seen the last of the “Greys”...laters, baby!!!! LOL!!!!

18. The Nurse's Not-So-Secret Scandal (Madrin Memorial #3) written by Wendy S. Marcus (Medical Romance) 5 stars

Ohhh boy, will I miss the women of Madrin Memorial Hospital and their delightful cast of family, friends, and patients! According to author, Wendy Marcus, this is potentially the last book in the series pertaining to the women that we have come to love and respect. In this installment, however, we meet Roxie Morano, a proud and take-no-shit Hispanic nurse who absolutely embraces life...i.e. page 115, “Life may not be the party we hope for, but while we’re here we should dance,” says the enthrallingly tall tan beauty. It’s all about fun for the spirited hellcat except when it comes to her illustrious career of nursing. The confident nurse takes her job responsibilities seriously, but when faced with some difficult situations with her personal life, she realizes that life has been totally unfair to her. So, with that being said, enter Ryan “Fig” Figelstein. The man is just deliciously hot - burning with an amazing hard-body physique which only adds stimulation to a sleekly smooth shaven bald head while infinitely accentuating his kind face and a pair of captivatingly dazzling green eyes. In the beginning few chapters of the book, I thought that I would enjoy the second book of the series the most. But as the story continued and the longer I read about the positively fearless Roxie and her gorgeously compassionate man, Fig, I loved the couple extremely more than I thought I would. Fig was just the ultimate sensitive male with his own unfortunate fetishes, which regrettably for him, dictated how he lived his life entirely. How can you not love a guy that is so insightful and thoughtful while unaware of his extremely stunning good looks? The man just oozed sensuality. It is sad to say that Fig’s parental upbringing was overbearingly dominated by a controlling and strong-minded mother, which, to no fault of Fig’s, initially began because of debilitating illness. As a result of her continuous manipulations and an eventual eye-opening realization, Fig wanted nothing to do with her when he reached adulthood. Ms. Marcus’ ability to keep the reader entertained with a highly anticipated climax that would surface near the end of the novel, was impeccably impressive. Details and opinions were exposed as the pressure was building when Fig’s sad, but yet truthful, secret was discovered. You really had to feel for the guy. Roxie’s unfortunate dilemma also is resolved with positive results for most all involved. I really enjoyed Ms. Marcus’ ability to incorporate past characters from her other two novels along with introducing the two new main characters into this book. It’s refreshing to know that past characters just haven’t been forgotten. Like I said, I am going to miss the nurses of Madrin Memorial Hospital, but I am also looking forward to see what Ms. Marcus has in the store for us next.

19. Sins of the Night (Dark-Hunter Series #7) written by Sherrilyn Kenyon (Paranormal Romance) 3 stars


I really love this series with all its quirky little monsters and alpha-male dominated masculine morsels, but this one fell a little short for me. The writing seemed a bit effortless, which is the first time that I have said that for one of Ms. Kenyon’s novels. I liked the essence of the storyline, with Alexion trying to put the cabash on an out-of-control Daimon situation while finding love again after he was betrayed by his former wife, but subsequently the story just seemed to drag a bit, which took longer than my normal quick-paced read for these novels. Alexion is Acheron’s “destroyer”, which only when the situation is way out of control and Acheron does not want to interfer himself, does he deem it necessary to call on Alexion to serve as his intermediary. So, Acheron sends Alexion to sort out the harrowing situation and put it to rest before more humans are hurt or killed. Alexion also wants to try and save a close Dark-Hunter “brother” that is also involved with this apparent betrayal to Acheron. Dangereuse St. Richards is the petite tough woman that Alexion meets and is instantly attracted to. The two together try to squash the “Stryker” (a dasterdly Diamon/god) situation, but it seems like they’re always going back and forth trying to find him and patrolling at night instead of making any headway in finding him. It just seems to go on and on and on. At times, I was just confused as to why this novel was so necessary because it just didn’t seem to go anywhere. In addition, I also guess I’m not really into the tough “girl” fighter persona who has just as much, if not more, backbone to fight the “bad guys” then her “man”. I’m more of a tough guy to the rescue kind of girl. The best part of the book, however, was Simi (Acheron’s demon) finally reuniting with her sister, Xirena. They make a very comical pair together! And, now Alexion has his own demon too:) So, anyway, I still consider myself a huge loyal fan...I was just not really into this book. Looking forward to, however, reading the next book in the series, Unleash the Night:)

20. Unleash the Night (Dark-Hunter Series #8) written by Sherrilyn Kenyon (Paranormal Romance) 5 stars


Sherrilyn Kenyon brings about a wonderful love story amongst the pages of her eighth installment of the Dark-Hunter series. Wren Tigarian is quiet, not letting anyone look into his dynamic turquoise eyes...branded a misfit with the two-animalistic beasts living within his body. A snow leopard and a white tiger (a combination that is a forbidden curse) were entombed within this highly intense man that reeked of sensual magnetism. Marguerite D’Aubert Goudeau is the Cajun rebellious daughter of an influential United States senator who strongly disapproves of her simple style of living. She has never really felt comfortable living the lavish lifestyle of an immensely important political dignitary. When both people meet finally, they are immediately attracted to each other. “Maggie” wants to get to know the quiet man that knew her now missing friend, Nick, but Wren is a wanted man. Something fatal occurred in his past that now has him running for his life from both the law and his Were-Hunter existance. Will Maggie be able to help him prove his innocence while she discovers his darkest and most unbelieveable secret? Or, will she run from him never to trust his feelings for her or believe in his world of feral reality? I just reveled in Wren’s world of Were-Hunters with their brave and seemingly persevering strength of character along with their massive physical attributes. I liked the personality that the author projected of Wren with his quiet and wanton sex appeal. And, the character of Maggie was also very courageous and compelling for sticking by her “man” when he really needed her support and belief in him. It was a very endearing love story for a character like Wren who really had never experienced love before. He finally has someone to care about him so much, which he most definitely deserved. I just really love this paranormal series:)

21. Lover Reborn (Black Dagger Brotherhood #10) written by J.R. Ward (Paranormal Romance) 5 stars


Review May Contain Possible ***Spoilers***

Ahhhhh, J.R. Ward is back with a Vhengeance when it comes to the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series! The best book, in my opinion, since Zadist’s book, Lover Awakened! Tohrment still is in mourning for his beloved shellan, Wellesandra. You have to feel bad for the guy, but it’s time to move on and the fallen angel, Lassiter, is there to see that he does...mainly because Wellsie is stuck, slowly fading away along with Tohr’s infant in the In Between. They didn’t quite make it yet into The Fade whereby she would be able to rest in peace. How to get her to move from the In Between and into The Fade, is the ultimate question. Lassiter has to somehow and some way get Tohr to let go enough for Wellsie to move on, and it’s not going to be easy.

Enter the forsaken Chosen, No’One, who was kidnapped by a sympath, raped, and eventually gave birth to Xhex (a sympath that is John Matthew’s shellan). No’One committed suicide (Lover Mine) after Xhex was born so that she would not have to be reminded of the sympath that stole her life and purity. She now returns to make atonement for her past. Both she and Tohr finally come together in a quest for hope and survival. Near the end of the novel, No’One goes through her needing, a female vampire fertility period, and Tohr realizes that he cannot commit to her...it’s simply not possible. He says some very hurtful and malicious things to her, which causes the two to realize that they were never meant to be. Will these two lonely people find their way back to each other?

I felt in the beginning that No’One was somewhat of a prude, but I think in the long run, she was just trying to find herself and really didn’t know how. After all, she was kidnapped, raped, and had a baby when she was considered clean and pure. She needed for Tohr to say those nasty, but truthful, things to her...no matter how mean he was. She also needed to live her own life, and stop being everyone’s maid and servant...punishing herself for the past. I didn’t like the fact that he was so rotten to her and really didn’t care much about her feelings, but I guess it was just something that she had to hear. And, it also encouraged him to try and sort out his feelings about how he really felt about her, and how to finally let go of Wellsie and his infant son so they can move into The Fade. Sometimes things need to be said no matter how harsh they can be. You can’t hide behind the truth because it just snowballs and grows until nobody really knows what the truth actually is or how to fix it. It’s heartbreaking and sad at times, but it can be soothing eventually. Both characters were strong and supported each in their hunt to find the true meaning of what their lives were really worth. Did they actually want to be alone forever...him grieving the loss of his one-time shellan, Wellsie, and her punishing herself because of her past history with the sympath and his abuse of her? I really don’t think so. Their’s was a beautiful love story that I was entranced with while also shedding a few tears throughout.

The novel also centers on John Matthew and Xhex...he doesn’t want her to fight because he is afraid for her safety, but she insists that this is who she is. Will they remain together? Xhex also develops a mother/daughter relationship with No’One which causes the breakdown of those protective walls of betrayal and anguish that No’One built up while also giving Xhex another family member that she can depend on and embrace. We also visit with Qhuinn and Blay, the two male vampires that will not admit that they really belong together even though Blay is in a relationship with Qhuinn’s cousin, Saxton. What will eventually happen to them? Will they remain friends or take it to the next level? The lessers are really not mentioned much in this novel, but we do see that the “Brothers” have conflicts with another group of rogue vampire fighters, the Band of Bastards...who are traitors fighting against the Black Dagger Brotherhood that make a bold attempt on Wrath’s life. What kind of impact will they have on the “Brothers” elite group? And let’s not forget about Lassiter, the comical and driven fallen angel. What will happen if, and only if, he succeeds in helping Wellsie and her infant soon move into The Fade? So many questions are answered in this book, but I’m sure that there will be many more predicaments inflicted when the author returns with another installment of the “Brotherhood” sometime next year.

The title of the book, Lover Reborn, gives new meaning to the many lives that are penned among the pages...Tohr and No’One, John Matthew and Xhex, and Xcor and Throe (members of the Band of Bastards). As the end of the novel draws near, each character is “reborn” with different outlooks on life while its true meaning is finally revealed to them.

One of the most beautiful and heartwarming parts of the novel is when Tohr picks a name out for No’One...pg 370 – “Autumn is my favorite season of the year. It’s not that I’m chicking out or anything...but I like the leaves when they turn red and orange. They’re beautiful in the moonlight, but more to the point, it’s an impossible transformation. The green of spring and summer is just a shadow of the trees’ true identity, a miracle every stinking time it happens. It’s like they’re making up for the loss of the warmth with all their fire. I like Autumn. You’re like that. You’re beautiful and you burn brightly – and it’s time for you to come out. So I say...Autumn.” and her response...pg 370 – “No’One loved the name Autumn. To be named was to be claimed, and it made her feel...reborn.”

Another wonderful quote in this book...pg 563 – “Life was short, no matter how many days you were granted. And people were precious, each and every one, no matter how many you were lucky enough to have in your life. And love...love was worth dying for. Worth living for, too.”

I loved how there was so much story in this book. So much raw emotion met with believable sustenance. The characters have real feelings even though they’re met in fictional overdrive. You can actually feel their grief and dispair mixed in with their love and loyalty. I did really love this story, and I am so happy that J.R. Ward is again writing with that same power and emotion as her beginning books. I recommend this novel to anyone that is a hard-core fan of the Black Dagger Brotherhood...in fact, even if you are not a fan you should begin reading this series now. It’s really THAT GOOD!!

Thanks for the review. Of course, you said everything I needed to know with:
"No’One committed suicide (Lover Mine) after Xhex was born so that she would not have to be reminded of the sympath that stole her life and purity. She now returns to make atonement for her past."
There are few pleasures like the WTFery that is J.R. Ward's idea of continuity. It's like comics, everyone comes back from the dead except Bucky, or in the BDB, Wellsie.

22. Outside the Lines written by Amy Hatvany (Contemporary Fiction) 5 stars


And so, artist David West decides to live “outside the lines” of society, which suits him just fine. That’s the topic that author, Amy Hatvany portrays throughout her most recent novel, Outside the Lines. In the beginning of the novel, David lives in a surburban neighborhood with his wife, Lydia, and young daughter, Eden, painting his pictures while also struggling to keep his demons at bay. The novel alternates between two different viewpoints, David’s and Eden’s, with flashbacks from the past and present, which helps to organize the plot’s timeline. Ms. Hatvany’s ability to “hook” the reader into the story is apparent from page one.

David West seems happy and content from the beginning of the novel, but as the story moves on, it is painsakingly apparent that the man suffers from a debilitating handicap of mental illness that he tries to camouflage with the consumption of alcohol. Eden loves her father, and at the age of 10 and 11, does not quite get that she can’t really help him even though her intentions are honorable. He has to want to help himself, and it doesn’t look like he wants to go there. David just wants to be happy living his life the way he wants to without medication, doctors, or interference from his family. The author gives the reader many glimpses of the family’s desperation to get David the help that he needs, but in the end David decides to leave the household, which ends up devastating to poor Eden.

Eventually, Eden takes it upon herself after twenty years, to try and locate her absent father. Is he living on the streets? Does he live near them or far away? Or, is he even alive after all the many years that have gone by without any contac? Those are the questions that constantly plague Eden until finally those questions come full circle and are answered. Ms. Hatvany illustrates an honest and truthful depiction about how this illness can affect a family and the victim.

The characters in this novel, besides David, also were not without their own flaws. Eden’s inability to commit romantically for any length of time was sadly heightened because of her broken relationship with her father. She was afraid of any companion leaving her just as her father did. So, as a result, she only had a couple of romantic interludes until finally in steps Jack, the man in charge of the homeless shelter where she begins to start searching for her father. Their relationship takes a turn for the better in the coming months as Eden becomes more trusting of him and learns to love again.

She does, though, have a few other relationships that are important in her life. The relationship between herself and her stepfather is somewhat strained due to the fact that Eden would not allow the man to take her father’s place instead of just accepting him in her life. No one could possibly take her father’s place in her mind. She did, however, have a wonderful relationship with her half-brother, Bryce. Even though there was a huge age difference between the two, they had fun together and truly supported each other. She also had a best friend, Georgia, that she had come to rely on and socialize with when she is not busy working her job as a head-chef in a well-esteemed catering company. Her relationship with her mother was loving, but often constricted. Her mother just could not understand why Eden had to find her father. She thought that it would only bring her daughter more heartache and sorrow. Amongst the pages of the novel, Ms. Hatvany reflects “that until a woman resolves the issues she has in her relationship with her father, she isn’t capable of having a lasting, intimate connection with a partner. If there’s something broken in her primary relationship with a male, the odds of success in any other romantic relationship she forms are pretty slim.” (pg 29).

In the end, Eden just could not mold her father into the person that she wanted him to be. Most people just want to be heard, loved, and valued for exactly the person they are, and that’s what David West desired. It’s enough for him to know that his daughter would always be waiting for him with open arms should he desire to see her. He just wanted to be happy and live his life the way he wanted – no matter if anyone agreed with the way he did it or not. And, Eden realized that her father would be happy as long as he was living his life where or how he so chose to. She was also finally content and happy after finally locating her father and establishing a new love with Jack. Not all life’s curveballs that are thrown at us end up all rosy and perfect. Ms. Hatvany writes another stellar novel that depicts the family dynamic of the father/daughter relationship!

A quotation that reflects living Your Life:
Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is bliss, taste it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.
- Mother Teresa

The Garden of Eden (you must read the novel to understand the significance of The Garden of Eden)

Flowers | Forward this Picture

23. On the Island written by Tracey Garvis-Graves (Contemporary Fiction) 5 stars


Teacher Anna Emerson is offered a teaching job to tutor 16 year-old T.J. Callahan during the summer. T.J. has missed a lot of school due to the fact that he had been battling cancer. They board a small plane together destined for a tropical island where his family is vacationing. The pilot, thought to be suffering from indigestion, in actuality has the beginning signs of heart trouble. When the pilot eventually suffers a fatal heart attack, the couple is thrown into a life-or-death situation. Staying alive and being there for each other is the only thought that is on their minds as the airplane nosedives into unchartered waters. Originally T.J. had thought that he would enjoy this new lease-on-life hanging out with his friends this summer while his cancer is in remission, but his parents had other ideas by seeing that he gets back on track with his schoolwork. Ms. Emerson, however, is not your typical middle-aged boring teacher. She is a 30 year-old very attractive woman that awakens T.J.’s male teenage hormones. While trying to survive together and hoping that they will be rescued, the duo rely on each for support emotionally as well as physically while they battle some hardships and illnesses when being helplessly stranded on this uninhabited island. As time passes from months into years, the teacher/student relationship takes on a totally different likeness as T.J. passes the legal age of 18 and the pair realize that they there are destined to never be rescued. It forges into a very passionate relationship that expresses some very tender and intimate moments. After all the suffering and anguish that they have witnessed, they realize that they love each other unconditionally regardless of their ages. As the novel nears its end, there are a few questions that must be answered. First, if need be, will they both survive on the island as time goes on? Second, will they ever be rescued after so much time has elapsed? And, the final question, if they do survive and are rescued, does their love stand a chance when they finally witness the changes that their lives outside of the island have taken? A real emotional ride! The characters were so compassionately believeable with their support of each other and the love that they shared. I thought that the story would just be based on a few days, but was thrilled when I found out that it would be years that they were missing, and couldn’t wait to see how their relationship changed and grew as time slide by. The author kept the reader guessing if either one would survive “the island”, even as the ending was drawing near. So, I was pretty surprised when I read the final pages. Great debut novel!!! Would definitely recommend it to other readers!!

24. To Seduce A Sinner (Legend of the Four Soldiers, #2) written by Elizabeth Hoyt (Historical Romance) 4 stars


Melisande Fleming always had a “thing” for Lord Jasper Vale. She had been smitten with the Lord for years! So, when another one of his fiancees’ tosses him away for a current lover on his wedding day, she proposes a solution to his problem...she will marry him instead! Imagine his surprise and good fortune when Melisande makes herself available to him in his unfortunate time of need. Unbeknownst to Melisande, however, Vale suffers horrifically within himself at past mistakes made during a military debacle that resulted in unfortunate fatalities to the soldiers that had depended on him to lead and protect them. The novel was one of compassionate love and intimacy mixed in with deep emotion and trust, which was tested from both sides of the relationship because little did Vale realize, but Melisande was also harboring a unfortunate secret too. Having been engaged at one time to another suitor, unfortunately she had given away her innocence to an all-to-willing rake. As the novel progresses, we later bear witness to Melisande’s embarrassment and sudden bashfulness when surprisingly encountering the presence of her former intended. I was both intrigued and horrified to find out what sort of military mistake had been made on Vale’s part when I realized that the poor man punished himself so severely while also trying to unravel the mystery as to why and who was to blame for the ill-fated travesty. My heart went out to the this person that blamed himself for something that he had no control over. And, I thought about how lucky and endearing it was that he could have such a woman in his corner like Melisande that loved him and supported him no mater what. She was a dream come true for him with no question as to where her honor and loyalty would lie. She loved him unconditionally and forever no matter what had happened in his past, and eventually that rings true for him also. He eventually realizes that “yes” he does love this plain but yet humorous beauty that somehow got under his skin. She truly understood who he was inside and out. Ms. Hoyt writes about heros and heroines that have you blissfully sighing and dreaming about that happily everafter. Love all her books!!!

25. Gabriel's Inferno written by Salvain Raynard (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


Okay, so at first as I was reading along, I thought that I would give this book only 4 stars, but then the intensity and anticipation of the ending kept getting closer and closer, while so many thoughts were swirling inside my head as to how in the world the author was going to end this novel. I kept thinking, “Okay, now there’s only 50 pages left, what is the author going to do to make reading this book worthwhile”? And then finally, here’s the ending, which kind of leaves you hanging and saying “What? That’s it? Wow, after all that anticipation leading up to those final pages?” But now I hear there’s going to be a sequel...uggh, I hope I don’t have to wait a whole year for it to come out. But because this first novel was so extraordinary, I’ll try and wait patiently...maybe!

Well, anyway, it’s a story that includes a beautiful, but yet shy, graduate student who loves, and I mean loves, her suavely polished professor, who just also happens to be the adopted brother of her best friend, which she hasn’t seen in a few years. The man is gorgeously magnetic with his seemingly stunning ice-blue eyes that just pierce the inside of Julianne’s soul. As the man that she has loved from afar while sleeping with an old college photograph of him under her pillow at night, Gabriel now realizes who she is and is far beyond attracted to her. He’s truly never known a bond so addictive or so passionate as what he feels for Julia, and vows that he will not take advantage of her pure but yet enticing innocence. They must wait, however, to take their relationship intimately to the next level until when her final grades are submitted to the college so that there will no questionable reprecussions as to when they had ended their teacher/student relationship.

In addition to their sexual frustrations, there are also past indiscretions and secrets that must be shared so that they may proceed with their romance honestly and trustworthy. Julia’s past romantic experience is anything other than pleasingly memorable. She is fearful and utterly afraid that she will not satisfy a man like Gabriel when it comes to the bedroom. Branded frigid and unfeeling by a past love, the thoughts do not leave her mind when thinking of how she will captivate Gabriel’s attention amongst the sheets. And, Gabriel has a disturbingly haunting past filled with drugs and sexual exploitations that are both embarrassing and punishing so much that he doesn’t think himself worthy of Julia’s attention and especially her heart. The characters believe in each other to honestly convey their passionate feelings for each other and turn their lives around while finding peace with their past experiences. This is the fantastic direction that the author takes to spin the tale within this debut novel.

I could easily say “okay here’s another dark character (Gabriel) trying to seduce an innocent inexperienced virginal character (Julianne) like in so many other books”, but, the author takes his time delving into the characters’ past lives, explaining how and why they feel the way the do, while developing their lasting relationship step-by-step in an attempt to let them really get to know each other and realize that “yes” they are each worthy of love intimately and unconditionally. This novel was not rushed because the author took his time to allow the climax to constantly simmer and eventually explode at the end, which was immensely anticipated...hence, my decision to award 5 stars to this enticingly provocative novel.

I love most any kind of music, and when I read all the songs and masterpieces that the author referenced amongst the pages, I would preview them on my iPad, and was pleasantly surprised that I too was mesmerized by these pieces of music...even Nine Inch Nails was something so out of the ordinary. The type of music cited each moment could have been conveyed as the author’s attempt to set the tone of the atmosphere at that moment. I can honestly say that I just can’t wait to read the sequel to this amazingly captivating novel, which is rumored to be published sometime this May! Fantastic debut novel!!!

Books Read So Far in 2012!! 26-50


**26** Fallen From Grace written by Laura Leone (312 pgs) - finished 4/24/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**27** Masters at Arms (Rescue Me #1) written by Kallypso Masters (166 pgs) - finished 4/25/12 - 3 stars (iPad)
**28** Liberating Lacey written by Anne Calhoun (272 pgs) - finished 5/4/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**29** Sweet As Sin written by Inez Kelley (337 pgs) - finished 5/6/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**30** City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5) written by Cassandra Clare (534 pgs) - finished 5/15/12 - 5 stars
**31** Heaven and Hell written by Kristen Ashley (472 pgs) - finished 5/21/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**32** Dancing on Broken Glass written by Ka Hancock (416 pgs) - finished 5/28/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**33** A Hearing Heart written by Bonnie Dee (321 pgs) - finished 5/31/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**34** Easy written by Tammara Webber (316 pgs) - finished 6/9/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**35** The Sweet Gum Tree written by Katherine Allred (314 pgs) - finished 6/10/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**36** Poughkeepsie written by Debra Anastasia (384 pgs) - finished 6/19/12 - 4 stars
**37** Playing for Keeps (A Neighbor from Hell #1) written by R.L. Mathewson (220 pgs) - finished 6/25/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**38** The Opportunist written by Tarryn Fisher (426 pgs) - finished 6/26/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**39** Beautiful Disaster written by Jamie McGuire (446 pgs) - finished 6/27/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**40** Just the Way You Are written by Barbara Freethy (349 pgs) - finished 7/2/12 - 3 stars (iPad)
**41** Me Before You written by Jojo Moyes (482 pgs) - finished 7/5/12 - 5 stars
**42** Mystery Man (Dream Man #1) written by Kristen Ashley (356 pgs) - finished 7/14/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**43** Wild Man (Dream Man #2) written by Kristen Ashley (329 pgs) - finished 7/18/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**44** Perfection (A Neighbor from Hell #2) written by R.L. Mathewson (266 pgs) - finished 7/19/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**45** Law Man (Dream Man #3) written by Kristen Ashley (390 pgs) - finished 7/21/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**46** Hearts in Darkness written by Laura Kaye (100 pgs) - finished 7/25/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**47** Knight (Unfinished Hero #1) written by Kristen Ashley (352 pgs) - finished 7/31/12 - 3 stars (iPad)
**48** The Gamble (Colorado Mountain #1)written by Kristen Ashley (555 pgs) - finished 8/12/12 - 4 stars (iPad)
**49** The Chief (Highland Guard #1) written by Monica McCarty (352 pgs) - finished 8/13/12 - 5 stars (iPad)
**50** The Hawk (Highland Guard #2) written by Monica McCarty (334 pgs) - finished 8/18/12 - 5 stars (iPad)

YEAH!!! FINISHED MY 50 BOOKS!!!!

26. Fallen From Grace written by Laura Leone (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


I’ve never read a book about a male prostitute before...so, this was a first for me. While reading along and not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised how the author kept this book a sweet and tender love story without tons of raunchy and unmeaningful sex. There actually was a story here like no other that I have ever read. Now, you’re probably thinking how much story can there possibly really be with a novel that revolves around a man living two different lives...one (Ryan, his real name) as a normal handsomely charming male seemingly employed as a model during the day, while (Kevin, his escort name) is in reality selling his body to the rich clintele of lonely pleasure-seeking women. Well, just to complicate his life even more, in moves Sara, the new neighbor, who is pulsatingly attractive to the male eye. The two hit it off immediately as friends, him helping her get settled in her new move and her taking care of his various pets when he’s “on assignment”. As the relationship deepens into something more intimate, Ryan feels guiltier and guiltier for not telling Sara the truth about his real professional job. He knows that when she finds out the truth, she will be hurt and probably never want to see him again. Ryan’s story as to why he is currently employed as an escort, delves deep into a sad and harrowing life of homelessness and thievery as a child runaway trying just to survive. And now, just when he thought he had everything under control, here comes Sara moving into his building, trying to re-start her career as an author by plunging into a new novel, and ultimately giving him a reason to get his life onto the straight and narrow. The readers are also introduced to Sara’s sister, Miriam (a woman trying to find her true identity amongst today’s judgmental culture) and Catherine (Ryan/Kevin’s manipulative employer that he is indebted to because of her willingness some years ago to give “Kevin” a way to get off the streets and a chance to withstand the past painsaking suffering). What will happen when Sara finds out his true profession and the realization of his past life? And, do they actually have a chance at a life together given the unusal circumstances that surround their sensually compassionate bond? I couldn’t help but love this book. Ryan is such a sweet guy even though he has this degrading and immoral job. He’s not one of those kinds of guys that you would probably bring home to meet your family, but he has a good heart and regrets hurting Sara. She eventually throws her feelings out there, and he decides to stomp all over them than to drag her down to his dispicable level. She is such a good-hearted person, and he doesn’t want to tarnish her purity with his shameful self-worth. But, Ryan doesn’t realize how much Sara wants to help him get out of the “ugly” business, and will stop at nothing to fight for the man she loves, even if she has to jump into the ring herself...i.e. pg. 162-163 “How could she help this lost man, this abandoned soul, this wayward altar boy fallen so far from Grace?” Well, you just have to pick up this explosive novel and read it to find out what happens between this fascinating couple. You will not be disappointed!!!

27. Masters at Arms (Rescue Me #1) written by Kallypso Masters (Erotica/BDSM) 3 stars


I don’t really do that great reading analogies (if you want to call this one) because there just doesn’t seem to be much of a story there with the enclosed novellas being so short. But this book, which leads to individual novels within the series, was getting such great reviews that I figured I would give it a try. Three men, all faced with sad and poignant pasts that are dealing with a previous history in the military together, decide to open a club...and, not just any club, but a male/female domineering fetish club. In this short introduction to the Masters at Arms series you catch a glimpse of the past from which each soldier has come from and what they faced during their military tour in Iraq. Some of the action was brutal and sad, but yet necessary in the telling of each soldier’s backstory. We also learn how the three individuals meet, section four of the book, and become fast friends. This sets the stage as to what we can expect from the threesome and the establishment of their club. Three different sections give tribute to each of the soldiers before they meet along with touching on their family, friends and past loves. The last section takes place a few years later when they are back in the United States as civilians working together. The introduction to each section gives the reader a tease about what to expect when that soldier’s story is finally told. So far, I think that the author has published two of the expected five heroes stories...Nobody’s Angel (September, 2011) and Nobody’s Hero (December, 2011) with Nobody’s Perfect (due out May, 2012). Definitely looking forward to beginning this series of dominating soldiers!!!

28. Liberating Lacey written by Anne Calhoun (Contemporary Romance) 4 stars


Lacey Meyers, a stylish and well-educated divorcee, decides to go to a popular bar in town on the prowl for an apparent “hook-up”, which is something different than her normal, boring, and predictable old marriage to her college sweetheart had allowed her. What she doesn’t bargain for is actually finding someone that is equally attracted to her and wanting the same sexually-charged fixation, but he’s much younger, by eight years, and a cop to boot! As she really gets to know Hunter over time, what had started off as a no-strings-attached bump n’ grind in the bar’s parking lot, now takes on a whole new picture when Lacey realizes she’s falling for the younger mesmerizing cop named Hunter. Hunter has had his fair share of women with that “no commitment, let’s just have fun for a while” gameplan. The man just breathes of hotness with that confident rough-around-the-edges quality that has Lacey’s juices flowing. But what will happen when, and if, she decides that she wants more from the magnetizing younger hotty? And, is he falling for her too while surprising himself in the process? Ms. Calhoun’s ability to draw the reader in with her characters’ alluring sexual and compassionate qualities simply purrs with tenderness and excitement. What 36 year-old woman wouldn’t want to attract the attention of a much younger smokin’ hot male? The author created the most intimate love scenes imaginable with that biting edge of not getting caught...just fondly reminiscing about the rain scene and the restaurant bathroom scene. The only reason why I didn’t give this novel 5 stars is because it was over with way too soon, and I couldn’t stand him calling her “beautiful” all the time. Who really does that? But, I will say that I am looking forward to reading the next novel that Ms. Calhoun writes. I do hope that it will be bit longer, though. There just seemed to be so much more that I thought could happen between the happy couple and their friends.

29. Sweet As Sin written by Inez Kelley (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


This was my first Inez Kelly read, and believe me when I say, I was not disappointed none whatsoever!! This was an intriguing sort of romance whereby a young adult author is depicted amongst the pages who just happens to live with an embattled turmoil that occurred during his past. John Murphy is the ghost writter J.B. Flannigan who just happens to write an illustrious young adult fantasy series that kids are yearning to read. It involves a monster, Jondi, and his best friend, Thorn, who are loyal and kind to one another. Somewhere, though, lurking in his past, John actually lives with these monstrous and dark details that he illustrates among the popular series’ pages. After moving into his new house, he meets next door neighbor, Livvy Andrews, a pastry chef that owns her own bakery. After Livvy meets John, she decides that he’s not for her and tries to nip-in-the-bud pronto any idea that he might get as them as a couple. John, though, just wants to have some fun. No commitment! No way! Not with his skeletons in the closet! But, as time passes, Livvy can’t help herself by falling for the troubled soul, John. He’s great with kids, hard-working and dependable. Besides he’s a fascinating man with an amazing body too, which is just icing on the cake!!! So goes the story of Livvy and John embroiled in an impassionate affair, but with undesirable consequences lurking in the shadows. Trust and honesty is key in their relationship along with the love they share, but John is unwilling to disclose his past to Livvy. In the beginning of this novel, I felt that this was just going to be one of those playful romantic sexy reads, but boy was I wrong. It involved so much more, especially as John’s past is painsakenly revealed. This was a man who sacrificed himself for his sister, who was plagued with unending nightmares, and who believed that ultimately he was responsible for the past torturous life his family has lead. Livvy’s life was not quite so dark, but she did have to live with the past indiscretions of her father cheating on her mother with other women repeatedly. No man was ever going to do that to her...no matter how much she loved him!! I just loved the storyline with the author being such a troubled soul while living within his characters’ lives. The love between Livvy and John was genuine. I just think that John was afraid and didn’t want to subject Livvy to his life of suffering. It was like he was trying to protect her, just like he did his sister, Gina. He had always looked out for Gina since the time she was born. Ms. Kelly’s novel was more than just a romantic interlude...it include heart, and soul, and honesty, and sacrifice. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, but honestly, I wish that there would be a sequel. There could be so many questions explored. Does John still have his demons? How has John and Livvy's relationship further developed? And, what is John, as an author, working on writing now? Just so many possibilities for a sequel to this gripping and passionate novel! Would Ms. Kelley consider writing a sequel? One could only hope!!!

30. City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5) written by Cassandra Clare (Young Adult) 5 stars


***Mild Spoilers might be present***

So, I just finished the 5th installment of Cassandra Clare’s Mortal Instruments series, City of Lost Souls, and it was way better than the last one, City of Fallen Angels. The action, the love stories, along with the amount of secretive alliances formed and brilliant mindgames played just flowed with intrigue and second-guessing throughtout the entire novel. Who really were friends, and who really were enemies, was continually questioned throughout the book.

This novel concentrated more on Clary tracking Jace and Sebastian and guessing what her brother was now ultimately planning. This left more of their friends and relatives like Simon, Isabelle, Alec, Magnus, Jordan, Maia, Luke, and Jocelyn more in the background with their own dilemmas rampantly weaving throughout the main storyline. Clary is fighting to save Jace, the love of her life, from the evil clutches of her brother, Sebastian. Sebastian is just the epitamy of evil with his white-blonde hair, black eyes, and unfeeling soul. I think that he is one of the most disturbing young characters that I have read about in a long time. The reader is enlightened to his eerily haunting persona that is trapped inside his body as well as his physical actions and his verbal comments that are nothing but repulsive and chilling. Ms. Clare still keeps up with her little zingers of side jokes in this installment...i.e., Magnus, that magnificent warlock, just loves his “eighteen-year-old boyfriend”, Alec, whereby he never stops keeping the reader entertained with his witty commentary. We also get some glimpses of Jordan and Maia’s romantic little tete-a-tete’s...I guess that they have reconciled or...are they just friends with “benefits”? Luke gets injured and is, hopefully, on the mend with his steadfast partner, Jocelyn, at his side. And, last but not yet least, let’s not forget about Clary’s best friend, Simon, who has been harboring that shocking secret from his family that he is now a vampire. His nerdish personality captured the attention of both Isabelle and Maia in the previous book. But now, he’s just basically seeing the intoxicating Isabelle due to Maia’s recent romantic liaisons with Jordan. With time running out, Simon agrees to risk the ultimate protection of the Mark of Cain etched into his forehead to try to bring about the final execution of Sebastian for the good of all concerned.

What will happen when the Shadowhunters are now forced into another battle with the dangerous and wicked Sebastian who wants nothing more than to wipe out the whole existance of the Shadowhunters? The end of this book, of course, leaves you hanging while questioning what Ms. Clare has in store for the final book of the series. Will Sebastian remain an enemy of the Shadowhunters and lose his life in the process, or will he somehow be reformed, not living up to the original satanic potential that his father Valentine had breeded him for, and eventually owing his alliance to the Clave? Will Jace and Clary’s love survive while they hunt down Sebastian yet again? And how about the others, Simon and Isabelle, Alec and Magnus, along with Jordan and Maia and Luke and Jocelyn? What will be the final outcome of the explosive finale of The Mortal Instruments series? Gee, I hope that it is really something big and unsuspecting after being such a committed reader of the series for so long. And, I also hope that there are no ARCS or full-chapter teasers distributed until the novel reaches the publication release date because people don’t hesitate writing reviews early, and so many times, they are littered with spoilers...even just tiny ones without them realizing it. I am so looking forward to the last book, which comes out next year!!!


A Heartfelt Quotation:
“There are some people—people the universe seems to have singled out for special destinies. Special favors and special torments. God knows we're all drawn toward what's beautiful and broken; I have been, but some people cannot be fixed. Or if they can be; its only by love and sacrifice so great that it destroys the giver.” – pg 151-152...said by Magnus Bane.

31. Heaven and Hell written by Kristen Ashley (Contemporary Fiction) 5 stars


Kia Clementine marries directly out of high school and begins her young adult married life the victim of domestic violence. Circumstances prevail that set the young Kia “free” from her life of abuse with a surprising inheritance of a $5,000,000 life insurance policy. Desperate to go on a much needed vacation that would mean a break from her existing and not too pleasant hometown life, she heads to Paris, Rome, and Florence to experience something new and exciting. While eating breakfast in the hotel dining room in Lake Como, Italy, she spies her “celebrity crush”, Sampson Cooper, sitting at the table next to her. Sam Cooper is tall, dark and beautiful...every woman’s sexual fantasy! What is he doing there alone?? Well, one thing leads to another, and the couple visit some Italian sights together, party together, and eventually embark on an illicit heated affair together. As Kia finally confides in Sam her most disturbing and violent secrets, Sam continues to hold up his walls of privacy that involve his past devastation of losing his best friend, Gordo. Even though he wants Kia to share her past, he is unwilling to do the same. The only person who really knows what Sam has experienced, is his former friend’s widow, Luci, and it’s just not right for Kia to consult her knowing how much pain it would cause to dig up the past. So, Kia and Sam enjoy their time together in Italy for the time being. It’s a story of new found promises like none other with a love so exquisite that requires both partners to trust and be honest completely with each...no matter what the cost. Another stellar execution by the clearly admirable author, Kristen Ashley. One of the main ideas that this novel portrays is largely about trust. Sam had to finally trust Kia with his heavy heart that was possessing all his emotional afflications surrounding the harrowing death of Gordo. It was a sad occassion, but it finally allowed the couple to move on, no...not ever to forget, but to move on with their lives. Ms. Ashley is a genuine impassioned storyteller that leaves the reader blissfully content romantically. Looking forward to reading another novel from her romance collection!!

32. Dancing on Broken Glass written by Ka Hancock (Contemporary Fiction) 5 stars


Okay, so I finished this novel with tears streaming down my face along with a box of Kleenex by my side. This has got to be the saddest, most emotional book that I have EVER read! All I can say is WOW! How did the author pull this off without crying herself...or maybe she did? I really just don’t know where she got the heart and sensitivity to write a book like this. I guess that’s why she’s the author and I’m the reader. So, with that being said, Ms. Hancock creates the story of two damaged souls...Michael “Mickey” Chandler and Lucille “Lucy” Houston - each individual carrying around enough baggage that could sink the Titantic yet again. Mickey grew up watching his mother suffer from a bi-polar imbalance, which eventually plagues Mickey himself. Lucy dealing first with the fatal shooting of her father during his employment of police officer and then watching her mother wither away from breast cancer, which eventually consumes her also. The two meet during Lucy’s 21st birthday celebration and are immediately attracted to each other. I don’t need to tell how they end up together...they just do. But what comes next is a novel that alternates splendidly through alternating voices and the past and present first with Mickey’s dated journal entries beginning each chapter and then Lucy immediately following him reminiscing about their ups and downs as a loving couple. Now I won’t go into what BIG THING happens to their lives to totally change it even though it is revealed on the dust jacket, but I will say that it is really something HUGE that changes everything that they had planned for their future. The book touches on relationships between sisters, relationships between parents, and especially relationships between spouses. So much so, that it had me so believing that these characters were actually real. I really felt so sorry for these two people, and I couldn’t help but wonder,”How much heartache could this two individuals actually take?”. They were both such good and honest people. They really didn’t deserve all the sadness and anguish that affected their lives. You could also tell that the author did mountains and mountains worth of research or at least was very knowledgeable about the bi-polar disorder. I really have never known anyone with this disorder, but it does sound very unpredictable and highly dependent on medication. Ms. Hancock has written a touching novel filled with sadness, heartbreak, love, and mostly hope. Hope that anyone reading this novel will understand and be compassionate about the ravaging disease of cancer and the debilitating disorder of bi-polar. It’s now been almost a week since I finished reading this novel, and I can honestly say that I am still thinking about it. It’s been a long time since a book has really touched my heart like this. Please read it, you will not be disappointed!!! Can’t wait for the next Ka Hancock book to be released!! A simply outstanding debut!!

33. A Hearing Heart written by Bonnie Dee (Historical Romance) 4 stars


Jim Kinney is a deaf and mute un-educated man trying to fit in amongst the elite in a small Nebraska town, while Catherine Johnson is the town’s school teacher who has just newly moved to Nebraska from White Plains, NY, which obviously is a city so much more advanced than the little town of Broughton in 1901. When Catherine first encounters Jim, he is being accosted by a trio of drunken troublemakers. Injured and needing immediate medical care, Catherine takes it upon herself to nurse his wounds tenderly. She then decides that Jim must make more of himself and approaches him with the subject of educating him in reading and writing, while also learning the new communcation form of signing. After many classes of instruction between the couple, the attraction has been building until they are spying on each often just to get of glimpse of each other during each and every day. Why is there such an attraction between an educated female like Catherine and a simpleton male like Jim? Will their love withstand the social class differences between a well-off woman and an underprivileged man? And, what is the corrupt crime that is taking place within the midst of their town that is finally revealed? I really liked the innocence of Catherine, which was kind of surprising given the fact that she was the more established character of the two. She was definitely the less experienced of the two in the intimacy department, however. Jim was such a caring and compassionate man who just had such a hard time expressing his feelings and thoughts due to his disability, which thoroughly angered himself. This novel is full of intimate and sensual sex scenes mixed in with a sweet romance between two giving and tenderhearted individuals searching to fit in and be loved by that one special someone. My first read by Bonnie Dee, which won’t be my last!!!

34. Easy written by Tammara Webber (Young Adult) 4 stars


This is a young adult novel that takes place in student Jacqueline Wallace’s first year of college whereby she is dumped by her boyfriend, Kennedy, of three years after he decides that he no longer wishes for them to be a couple. Jacqueline is devasted with his decision and decides to forego her economics class so she doesn’t have to face her ex, but then is faced with realistic consequences...either attend the class or face failing a class and possibly destroying her GPA, which she has deligently been working on maintaining superbly. She decides to plea with the professor of the class to see if there is anything that she can do to pass the class, and he puts her in touch with a tutor, Landon. They e-mail each other back and forth and decide on a time and a place to meet to begin their tutoring sessions. When Jacqueline finally returns to her economics class, she notices a gorgeous boy attending the class that does nothing but draw during the lecture. What’s his deal? And, why is she so attracted to him? Soon after watching him repeatedly, she notices that he has begun staring at her also. Jacqueline is also being stalked and bullyied by one of her ex-boyfriend’s frat-buddies. So much so that an unknown person saves her from being a victim of Buck’s aggressive behavior. That unknown person, who Jacqueline later finds out, is Lucas, the gorgeous tattooed artist that sits in the back of her economics class. They develop a special and heartfelt relationship where Jacqueline is protected solely by Lucas. I found the book to mirror college life respectively and be spot-on with the relationship between college friends and college romances. The novel kept pace with the bumpy and often unpredictable life as a college student when the relationship between the couple intensified. This was a little more mature than just your everyday young adult novel...so beware that there are some adultlike situations that occur within the text of the novel. Easy was an emotionally riveting novel that hinged on honesty, trust, and loyalty. I enjoyed the chemistry that was etched between the couple...Jacqueline with her caring and sweet persona while Lucas possessed that sometimes dark and sensual demeanor. A deep and poignant novel not to be missed!!!

35. The Sweet Gum Tree written by Katherine Allred (Contemporary Romance) 4 stars


Everybody who reads this emotionally-charged romance seems to really enjoy it, and I too, was no exception to that feeling. The Sweet Gum Tree follows southerner Alix French living in the Crowley Ridge area of Arkansas from the young age of eight until she is a grown woman. She’s a member of the respectable “French” family. Alix lives with her grandfather, Judge, her mother, Ellie, and two aunts, Darla and Jane, in the small town of Morganville. Her father, James, was not around because he had run off before she was even born. At a young age, she loved to follow her grandfather around, and on one particular day, she decides that she wants to accompany him to the local salvage yard for a fuel pump for the ’52 Chevy that he is restoring. The salvage yard’s owner, Frank Anderson, is a bitter and large man that is often drunk regularly spouting comments about how everyone thinks that they are better than he is. Alix strikes up a conversation while at the salvage yard with Nick, Frank’s 10-year-old son whom he often abuses both verbally and physically. After that initial meeting, there forever starts a bond of friendship that the two share. Alix and Nick become extremely close as friends, but as they emerge into adolescence, Alix’s feelings for Nick begin to grow in a whole different direction...she wants him to notice her as more than a friend - more like a woman. But, standing in the way, is Nick’s friendship with another girl, Lindsey Swanner. Lindsey, a quiet and shy young girl, has been protected by Nick for years, and Alix wonders just what kind of relationship the pair actually have...some jealousy is apparent from Alix. As the years pass, Alix and Nick do become involved romantically and experience ups and downs, but none is as devastating as when a misunderstanding causes Nick to leave town while Alix is harboring a life-altering secret from him. Will these two find themselves reuniting? What is the secret that Alix keeps from Nick? And, when they do finally come together in a chance meeting, will past altercations keep them apart? Oh, what a mesmerizing and beautiful romance...full of a powerful connection from two passionate people that reek of courage and tenderness. The two main characters were meant to be together, but there were so many obstacles that kept them apart...both characters were always trying to do the right thing. Just when you thought, “okay, this is it, there is a future for them together”, something else would drive a wedge right through that thought. This was a story of truelove, and through both pitfalls and blessings during their relationship, it just seemed to suggest that, “if it’s truly meant to be, it will happen”. Loved the character of Nick...from the age of 10 right up until he becomes a mature manly man. Putting all his looks aside (which seemed to be scorching hot), he was such a nice guy...always trying to do the right thing while looking out for a person even though the life that he had come from, the wrong side of town, was flowing through his veins. And, there was just something about Alix that made her seem like a caring and compassionate young woman – a person someone could just call friend. It never mattered to her what type of disfunctional family Nick had been born into. She loved him just the same. What a great book! So easy to get into, and you will find yourself rooting for this captivating couple!!

36. Poughkeepsie written by Debra Anastasia (Contemporary Romance) 4 stars


I started off reading this book with no high expectations because, at the time, I had not really read many reviews. So, I figured, what the hell, I’ll give it a shot - the story only takes place 20 minutes from my house... I was definitely super surprised about how great this read positively moved me. It was so much more than what I had preconceived it to be...

Every day Livia McHugh boards the train in Poughkeepsie and heads to her workplace as a professor’s assistant. She always happens to notice the poor, often abused, homeless man sitting near the platform just trying to keep his occupence on the down-low as he fingers his cardboard cutout of a keyboard. Unsuspecting to Livia, the man notices her too...counting her smiles as she waits for her train to arrive during the week. Both individuals are unaware that they are being carefully watched by the other. Finally, after Livia watches a group of young men taunt and offend the homeless man, she decides to take on the troublemakers and stand up for this innocent green-eyed loner. The mysterious man, Blake Hartt, is more than appreciative, but he vows not to be her charity case. As their friendship grows, Livia is so taken with Blake, which causes a breakup between her and her current boyfriend, now turned fiancé, Chris –

pg. 46...”Did you know your sister’s screwing a homeless man?” Chris taunted, “A freaking crazy-ass bastard? She has the nerve to do it in plain sight of my friend, who I’d just told my great news,” Chris’s eyes bore into Livia as he spoke to Kyle.

After some time passes, Blake feels that he can trust Livia, so he confides in her his life as a foster child and introduces her to the two men that he has been calling brothers ever since. Beckett, the older and wiser macho-type badass who has always vowed to protect Blake no matter what the cost, and along with protecting Blake, he will also protect anything and everyone that Blake loves. The man is hilarious with his colorful and quite truthful jargon...not withholding anything back. The other brother, Cole, is involved with the clergy...a priest’s assistant. Much more reserved than Beckett, Cole is honorable and also protective of his two “brothers”, therefore, adding to the symbolism of the intertwining tattoo that decorates the arm of all three men...a music clef (Blake), a knife (Beckett), and a cross (Cole).

The novel deals with mental health, homelessness, murder, physical abuse, family loyalty, and love. A novel that speaks of hope for a future and hope for a better life. Ms. Anastasia’s ability to create a tender love story with strong courageous characters was simply outstanding...Blake was shy and broken, but with Livia’s strong values and strength he was able to trust and painsakeningly realize that he was entitled to her love and a life of normalcy amongst human society. He seemed like he would slowly, but positively win the battle that he so desperately required to be part of Livia’s real world. She was a fighter, never willing to compromise, and he really and truly wanted to win the fight of his life to show her that he just could be everything and more than she wanted...very powerful stuff! The story also introduces a few other storylines that involve the main characters’ family members and friends...Kyle (Livia’s often outrageous and un-controllable sister), Eve (the woman that seeks revenge while working for Beckett), Chris (the often volatile and abusive ex-boyfriend of Livia), and Mouse (the loyal and trustworthy large bodyguard who also works for Beckett). With a cast full of interesting and intense characters, Ms. Anastasia’s novel is suspenseful and sharp with a creative glow of depth and heart. A novel not to be missed...a very emotional find!!

37. Playing for Keeps (A Neighbor from Hell #1) written by R.L. Mathewson (Contemporary Romance) 4 stars


Yes, Haley Blaine is a push-over...and yes, Jason Bradford is a bully, but what these two don’t see coming is the fact that they are meant for each other. Haley lives next to Jason, and hates it, but she loves her little house. Jason lives next to Haley, and hates it too, but he loves his independence and perfect hideaway from his huge family. He’s your typical Neighbor from Hell – loud parties, endless parade of women in and out of his house, and no respect for his quiet and shy neighbor. Well, that’s about to change when she sees Jason ripping up her prized-possession flowers. She finally decides that it’s time to let him have it, and she marches on over next door to tell him exactly what she thinks of him. Enough is enough!!! What she doesn’t figure on happening is that Jason likes the fact that she sticks up for herself, and realizes that she’s a bit spunky and cute when she really gets going. What forms next is a close-knit friendship with a few extra passionate perks between the two neighbors. Of course, it also helps that Haley owns a bakery, and Jason is a bonafide food-aholic...lover of sweet, mouth-watering, delectable treats! I guess, you could say that it’s the way to his heart...just like with the rest of the Bradford men. These two are comfortable with their little hidden arrangement until real feelings start to get in the way. What will happen to this little happy couple of so-called BFFs? And, will they be ready and willing to make that happily-ever-after commitment? Only the reader will know their decision... I just loved this couple!! They were full of spice and sassiness with snippets of tender loving care mixed in. Ms. Mathewson does not hold back on the sexy display of affection between the couple and often shows their comical and laugh-out-loud spirit along the way. I am sooo looking forward to the next Neighbor from Hell installment, which is sure to be another winner!!!

38. The Opportunist written by Tarryn Fisher (Contemporary Romance) 4 stars


All I can say is that I am way beyond totally surprised how this novel ended. Not anything like what I was expecting, which happens to be a good thing. Who wants to be able to predict how a book is going to end from the very beginning, which in retrospect, is a letdown when you’re in pursuit of finding that element of surprise. Kudos to Ms. Fisher for pulling this off!!

Olivia Kaspen’s ex-boyfriend, Caleb, has no idea who she is. She discovers this during a chance meeting with him in a record store. They were in love
once-upon-a-time, even when Olivia had destroyed what they once had during their years in college. How could he forget her? They had met in college...he, the skirt-chasing basketball star, and she, the recluse pre-law major. During those college years, Caleb didn’t hide his love from Olivia, but she was not used to admitting her true feelings to anyone. In the end, their love is doomed because of Olivia’s failure to commit to Caleb. As the years pass, both individuals have moved on, living their own lives separately, except now that the couple have re-connected, people will be betrayed and, eventually, secrets are divulged. In the end, will the couple decide that the love they experienced together ever be forgotten? Will both individuals have moved on enough in their lives for them not to be able to go back in time to the once special bond that they had so innocently craved? And, will the lives that they have now chosen be enough to live with when now all that remains is a love lost along the way? These decisions and others will eventually be answered along the way.

Within the novel’s pages, two very significant quotes that might also be reminescient in today’s society are expressed:

“I think that after the first time you give your heart away, you never get it back. The rest of your life is just you pretending that you still have a heart.” – spoken by Noah.

and...

“You can only give your heart away once; after that, everything else will chase your first love.” - one of Olivia’s final thoughts as she narrates the conclusion of the novel.

my thoughts exactly...

This was a real gem of a novel...full of twists and turns that were exposive and unsuspecting. The character of Olivia was not like one that I had read about before. She put on the air of being quiet and not really interested in mingling with the popular and rich societal accolades, but in reality, she was just a sarcastic manipulating person willing to hurt others to get what she wanted. Caleb, however, really seemed to love Olivia and was oblivious to her shenanigans, even though he was this so-called rogue amongst the ladies. The book was totally convincing with its not so perfect ending. It pretty much made sense as opposed to the happily-ever-after ending. Great first novel!!

39. Beautiful Disaster written by Jamie McGuire (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


I’m finding that the young adults written today are not just for teens, but also for adults. This novel, written by Jamie McGuire, was hot, and emotional, and physical, but most of all, riveting. Abby Abernathy meets Travis Maddox during one of his many underground hidden fight meccas. With swarms of college kids betting on his elicit fistfights, he comes to her rescue as the fight gets out of hand. Cousin to her bestfriend’s boyfriend, Travis radiates smokin’ badboy with his colorful tattoos and lean muscled physique. All the girls love him, and what’s not to love? He’s gorgeous! He rides a Harley! And, underneath all that pulsating testosterone, he’s smart too! They become best friends – helping each other with homework, studying for tests, and supporting each other’s decisions. Through time they are inseparable, but with him parading his numerous girlfriend wannabes around, and with her seeing one of Travis’s fraternity brothers, the feeling of jealousy invades both consciences. It all comes full circle when the two make a bet that Travis has the pleasure of winning. Will they take their relationship to the next level of intense intimacy or will they remain just bestfriends forever? This is a deeply moving page-turner with compassionate characters that came from very different upbringings. The character of Travis was sometimes a real jerk with his cocky attitude and childish outbursts, but he was so confident and protective of everything and everyone that was important to him. While Abby was uuummm.......I don’t know what to think about Abby. She sometimes came off as a little too good for everyone else, and she did lead Travis on at times, but that just seemed to go hand-and-hand with the background that she came from. She was very guarded and didn’t want anyone to know where she came from or who her father was. I really enjoyed this novel from author Jamie McGuire, and I am looking forward to reading the story from Travis’s point-of-view...Walking Disaster...when it’s released in 2013!

40. Just the Way You Are written by Barbara Freethy (Contemporary Romance) 3 stars


***POSSIBLE SPOILERS INCLUDED IN REVIEW***

This book, written by author Barbara Freethy, was just a “fair” read to me. I was just expecting a bit more as far as surprises go. It was just too predictable from the very first few chapters. Alli and Sam were married and parents at a young age to daughter, Megan, who incidentally, was such a cute and smart little girl. Once-upon-a-time Sam had been Alli’s sister’s boyfriend. But Alli stole him away from Tessa on a nite of drunken passion when she was out of town, and the reprecussions that followed, were devastating to the three. Now, in this desperate need of family togetherness because of a tragic health scare affecting their beloved grandmother, Phoebe, the two sisters find themselves in competition again for the love of one man, Sam. Tessa, now living the life of a supermodel, drops what she’s doing and flies clear across the world to the small fishing village, Tucker’s Landing, that she has not visited in years, to possibly see for the last time her “Grams”. With Alli and Sam’s now impending divorce proceedings underway, Tessa resolves to possibly see where her relationship with Sam could now go. Would there be a possibility of them getting back together or has too much time passed for them to re-kindle their passion for each other? While the two sisters duke it out as to who will win the guy, Phoebe’s life is in turmoil also. She also has a long-lost love, William, who has loved her through the years. Phoebe, when she was once young, was promised to another man, John, by her father as a business arrangement. Even though she was not happy about having to marry a complete stranger, through the years her love grew, and John ended up being the love of her life. Now William is back to claim his lost love and has try to talk Phoebe into believing that she was meant for him and he for her. Only Phoebe will never be able to love him like she loved John. It’s just not meant to be. William finally understands this, but at what cost? Through a last request from Grams, the family is thrown together with a mission to find an exquisite treasure – a lone pearl to complete the necklace that John had intended for his beloved Phoebe symbolizing hope, beauty, strength, and love. What happens if or when the circle of love is completed? Will everyone’s final destiny be what they most want? Some will be disappointed, and some will be happy, but all-in-all, they will never finish “counting the stars...they will never be alone because there is always love, and love lives forever.” (pg. 8). Neither sister seemed to be very likeable until the very end. Alli seemed to be a bit of a whiner, and always was feeling sorry for herself. While Tessa seemed to be a little more put together, knowing what she wanted, unfortunately, though, still living in the past. Sam was kind of confusing, while never really telling his wife how he felt about her, he did, though, act as if he was in love with her. He just seemed not to know how to show her. Tessa coming back into the mix finally resolved a lot of Sam’s conflicting emotions. He was definitely more sure of his feelings once Tessa arrived and stayed around. It seemed to seal the lid on the coffin, so to speak, about how he actually felt about Alli. “You didn’t steal my life. You gave me one”, Sam says to Alli when she confronts him about living his life with her instead of Tessa (pg. 257). I think that he was just afraid of finally admitting that she was the one for him because he had no idea how she would react to it while their legal separation was ongoing. Phoebe, however, always had made her mind up as to who was her one and only love. She just did not want to hurt William’s feelings. She was a genuinely nice person, and everybody loved her. William was sincere by trying to win back Phoebe, but he was just a little too blind in realizing that she had definitely made the right decision so many years ago to marry John. The novel was full of heartache and tragedy, while ebbing of tenderness and compassion with lovable encouraging characters. Old loves were lost and new loves were found. The novel was a quick page-turner that leaves the reader satisfied with the final outcome, even though you can see it coming probably from mid-way into the book. An enjoyable and entertaining read by author, Barbara Freethy!

41. Me Before You written by Jojo Moyes (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


Oh, this novel is just so sad and heartbreaking that I was totally stunned by the ending!! Did not see that coming at all! It’s hard to review this novel without giving up how the ending is resolved. So, I’ll just say how entranced and entertained I was with this emotional and often humorous novel. The story centers around Louisa Clark, a down-on-her-luck young woman with so much potential if she just makes the right decisions, and Will Traynor, a wheelchair-bound young man who is just totally disgusted with how his higher-than-life liveliness has been cut short by being condemned to a life of constantly being dependent upon others. The two meet when Lou loses her job at a cafe and decides to interview for a job as a caretaker for the injured Will. She is offered the job and decides to take it because her parents are in dire need of extra income as a result of her father losing his job. The two individuals spar and tussle constantly as Lou tries to get Will’s mind off his troubles and introduce him to new and exciting adventures that could possibly get him out of his emotional depression...”if you can’t do what you used to do, maybe you just have to try other things that you never thought you could do”. Will resists to a point and then decides that maybe if Lou is taking her job so seriously to show him that there is more to life than just feeling sorry for himself, than maybe he should humor her and take her up on her silly adventures. I loved the constant comical ridiculing between the two as friends, and then also later as their relationship leads to feelings of love that trickles within the boundaries of their two desirous hearts. Will will not let their relationship progress further, however...as made clear during the quote illustrated below:

“I can't do this because I can't...I can't be the man I want to be with you. And that means that this - this just becomes...another reminder of what I am not.”

It’s just so sad, so much so, that you really feel for the two incredible characters that Ms. Moyes has created. So much emotion and heartbreak is depicted amongst the pages along with an understanding of truth, honesty, and affection between the couple. A book that I can’t really recommend enough if you are an emotionally romantic reader! Beautiful love story! Beware, though, this book is extremely hard to find...at least it was for me.

42. Mystery Man (Dream Man #1) written by Kristen Ashley (Contemporary Romance) 5 stars


I just started reading another hot and steamy series by none other than romance writer, Kristen Ashley. The first novel in the Dream Man series, begins with Mystery Man. It was full of suspense, romance, family loyalty, and arousing sex scenes. Ms. Ashley doesn’t skimp on building up the attraction between Gwendolyn Kidd and her “Mystery Man”, Cabe “Hawk” Delgado. As Gwen carries on their affair for a year and a half with mind-blowing sexual innuendos not knowing her deliciously erotic partner’s name, it finally is revealed when Gwen’s house is shot up after a drive-by shooting takes place, which somehow involves Gwen’s younger sister, Ginger. When she finally learns her “Mystery Man’s” name, she also learns that “Hawk” has been keeping tabs on her too. There are multiple facets to this alpha-male hero...family is key, he protects those he loves, and he takes no shit from anybody. There were times during the novel, that we get other glimpses of potential suitors for the attractively bold Ms. Kidd, but her heart and soul belongs to Hawk. While the romance continues between Gwen and Hawk, the storyline concerning Ginger weaves its way through the pages of this dangerous rollercoaster ride. She is wanted by the cops for questioning while being on the run from local thugs. Hawk promises Gwen that he will try and protect her sister the best he can, which seems to put Gwen’s nerves somewhat at ease, but circumstances arise that put her in harm’s way and increase the need for Ginger to be found “pronto”. Hawk also suffers from a sad and devastating past that comes to light when their relationship is tested concerning whether or not they will survive as a couple. Hawk implores the fact that Gwen should give all of herself to him if she wants them to work. But, she has been hurt in the past in a different way than Hawk, and to give him her heart and possibly see it crushed again, would be tragic. Finally, the couple admits their feelings for each other and it is a glorious occasion for both.

**page 315** - “You’re in deep with me, aren’t you,baby?" I whispered my question just to confirm.
“Drowning,” he whispered back.
Oh my God, He felt the same as me!
“I love you, Cabe.”
The minute I said it, he curled me into him so we were pressed together and his face was in my neck.
“Love you too, Sweet Pea.”
He loved me.
Thank God, he loved me.

I really loved this book! There are so many great characters that kept me so entertained...from the two lead characters, (Gwen and Hawk), to their friends (Cam, Tracy, and Elvira), to their family members (Meredith, Bax, Maria, Gus and Ginger) and, last but not least, the guys who fawn all over Gwen (Tack and Mitch). I loved the romantic banter between Gwen and Hawk, which lead to a passionate and trusting understanding. Even though Hawk was this Badass tough-as-nails hero, Ms. Ashley made sure that he didn’t lack the heartstopping tender persona...like when he talks about missing out on seeing how beautiful Gwen really was during their year and a half of meeting in Gwen’s bedroom for their sexual trysts.

**page 132** - He tenderly slid the backs of his knuckles against the skin of my cheek while he muttered, “A year and a half. Totally f****n’ missed out.”

Ms. Ashley writes novels that just ebb romance with her strong and attractive female leads and rough n’ tough smokin’ male counterparts. Looking forward to reading the next Dream Man novel, Wild Man...which features hunky Brock Lucas.