Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Ransome’s Crossing-Kaye Dacus

Ransome’s Crossing
Kaye Dacus
Harvest House, Jun 2010, $13.99
ISBN: 9780736927543

In 1814, her family is unaware that Charlotte Ransome has a secret fiancé Henry Winchester in Jamaica. Although she knows she is acting rash, Charlotte dresses up as midshipman Charles Lott to sneak on board one of the vessels of a fleet captained by her brother Commander William Ransome.

However, her plan threatens to fall apart when she becomes ill. First Lieutenant Ned Cochran knows who Charles is having met briefly Charlotte in England before setting off for the Caribbean. He is already halfway in love with her from that brief meeting in Portsmouth and decides to conceal her true identity from his superior officer her brother the Commander. On the journey across the sea to find her fiancé, Charlotte finds herself attracted to caring Ned; leaving her to ponder her fickleness as she falls in love with a second man.

The second Ransome historical romance (see Ramsome’s Honor for the turbulent romance between William and Julia) is a terrific early nineteenth century tale as readers will feel they are at sea crossing the Atlantic. The lead couple is a fabulous pairing as she feels capricious while he risks his career for his beloved. Although women disguised as men has been used many times in books and movies, Kaye Dacus makes it feel sea-breezing fresh with a strong entry that also sets up the next novel in the saga with a wonderful final twisting cliffhanger.

Harriet Klausner

Ransome’s Crossing-Kaye Dacus

Ransome’s Crossing
Kaye Dacus
Harvest House, Jun 2010, $13.99
ISBN: 9780736927543

In 1814, her family is unaware that Charlotte Ransome has a secret fiancé Henry Winchester in Jamaica. Although she knows she is acting rash, Charlotte dresses up as midshipman Charles Lott to sneak on board one of the vessels of a fleet captained by her brother Commander William Ransome.

However, her plan threatens to fall apart when she becomes ill. First Lieutenant Ned Cochran knows who Charles is having met briefly Charlotte in England before setting off for the Caribbean. He is already halfway in love with her from that brief meeting in Portsmouth and decides to conceal her true identity from his superior officer her brother the Commander. On the journey across the sea to find her fiancé, Charlotte finds herself attracted to caring Ned; leaving her to ponder her fickleness as she falls in love with a second man.

The second Ransome historical romance (see Ramsome’s Honor for the turbulent romance between William and Julia) is a terrific early nineteenth century tale as readers will feel they are at sea crossing the Atlantic. The lead couple is a fabulous pairing as she feels capricious while he risks his career for his beloved. Although women disguised as men has been used many times in books and movies, Kaye Dacus makes it feel sea-breezing fresh with a strong entry that also sets up the next novel in the saga with a wonderful final twisting cliffhanger.

Harriet Klausner

Playing With Fire-Amy Knupp

Playing With Fire
Amy Knupp
Harlequin SuperRomance, Jul 13 2010, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373716463

Macey Locke leaves the Peace Corps after two years and heads to San Amaro Island, Texas, home of her best friend Derek Severson. She loves Derek, but knows he does not return her deepest feelings. However, her mission is to help her BFF move passed the tragic death of his girlfriend Julie in a fire last year.

As a firefighter Derek feels guilty that in spite of his occupation he failed to save Julie’s life. Worse, he finds his attraction to Macey makes him think he is betraying Julie’s memory. However, as he realizes he loves Macey, he also concludes kind-hearted Julie would want him to go on with his life. Now to persuade Macey they can be friends and lovers.

This is a terrific contemporary tale with a romantic subplot that enhances the relationship drama between the lead couple. The key to the well-written novel is Derek as the audience will feel his grief and commiserate with him; feelings from others he does not want. His guilt for failing Julie and for falling in love with his BFF make for a strong emotional story line though the premise of a second chance at love with a best buddy is not new. Amy Knupp provides a powerful novel as this Texas Firefighter learns what happens to one’s heat when Playing With Fire of the woman who loves him.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, June 28, 2010

The Family Plan-Susan Gable

The Family Plan
Susan Gable
Harlequin American, Jul 13 2010, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373716456

Her daughter Jordan is dying from cancer. The only thing that can save her life is the umbilical cord blood from a newborn sister. Her single mom Dr. Amelia Young finds the anonymous donor whose sperm she used thirteen years ago to birth her daughter.

Chef Finn Hawkins is stunned that he was tracked down. However, he agrees to donate again so that a full-blood sibling can be born to save Jordan’s life. Amelia accepts his donation, but vanishes. However, eight months later, Jordan searches for her biological father at a time when Amelia’s baby doctor wants her resting.

Mindful of the true story of a sister born to save her sister from leukemia, this is an engaging contemporary as The Family Plan never included a father, but Finn persuades Amelia that Jordan and their unborn need him as much as she does and he needs them. Character driven, this is a warm tale of love that comes in many ways and in various relationships.

Harriet Klausner

Charlotte’s Homecoming-Janice Kay Johnson

Charlotte’s Homecoming
Janice Kay Johnson
Harlequin American, Jul 13 2010, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373716449

After their widower father is hospitalized from a tractor accident injury and having lost her Bay Area job due to downsizing, Charlotte Russell returns to the family farm to help her twin sister divorced kindergarten teacher Faith run the place and care for their dad. Faith informs her sibling that her abusive former husband Rory Hardesty is trying to reconcile with her but only scares her with his temper further fueled by alcohol.

Charlotte and town mayor Gray Van Dusen, an architect, meet and are attracted to one another. Whereas Gray wants to pursue their feelings, Charlotte wants to ignore them. She left the farm years ago so she could be her own person and not the other half of a twin. As he points out he likes her sibling but loves her, Gray tries to persuade her that her loved ones including him know she is her own person and not a mirror image.

The cast makes for a strong family drama with the prime story line being the romance between the mayor and the prodigal sister. In some ways, the other twin’s subplot re an abusive ex spouse is the more poignant entry. However, Charlotte’s Homecoming is a family affair that readers of contemporary tales will appreciate while knowing the rest of the other Russell twin’s story is to follow.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, June 21, 2010

Ruthless Heart-Emma Lang

Ruthless Heart
Emma Lang
Kensington Brava, Jul 1 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758247506

In 1872 reticent intellect Eliza Hunter worries about her sister Angeline as her Papa has accepted a marriage offer from twice married Josiah who is also older than their dad. Being members of the Latter Day Saints, Angeline must obey her Papa though her heart belongs to Jonathan who is on his mission. Heartbroken Eliza knows crossing the powerful Josiah is dangerous, but vows to do something though she is unaware what she can do as within her community and family she is considered an outsider and her foe is a very important leader.

Several months later a married Angeline runs away from her brutal spouse. Eliza knows she will do anything to insure Angeline is safe, but hired bounty hunter Grady Wolfe is a bit taken aback when she follows him in the Utah Territory wilderness while he searches for her sibling. Grady is unhappy that Eliza is on his trail, but for her safety takes her with him. He has no idea the meaning of what she says verbally and her obsession with her books that she drags across the territory, but somehow their nonverbal communication starting with kisses tells him what he needs to know. However, Grady has a secret that he must tell the woman he loves but fears how she will react; ironically she concealed her relationship to his target and now fears how he will react.

This superb Americana romance stars two wonderful lead characters who are pariahs in their respective circles. The story line is fast-paced from the moment the intrepid bookworm totes her favorite books with her while trailing after Grady. Fast-paced but character driven, fans will relish the entertaining taming of the Wolfe historical romance.

Harriet Klausner

I'll Be Slaying You-Cynthia Eden

I'll Be Slaying You
Cynthia Eden
Kensington Brava, Jul 1 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758234308

In Baton Rouge, Night Watch vampire slayer Sandra “Dee” Daniels stalks the night wearing pointed heels while seeking the undead. She is sworn to protect humanity from these predators. She is quite good at what she does until she meets Simon Chase as he makes her desire him.

Dee has learned she will be converted to a genetically altered human who dies and returns as a vampire. Her current mission is to prevent a rogue “born” again Master who has vamps fleeing him. She wants to stop the villain from turning the bayou into a red sea. However, as dangerous as that is, she feels the most perilous person to her well being is Simon; he shares her intense passion and ire. As each planned to use the other, neither anticipated the feelings that develop for each other; but stalking Baton Rouge remains the Born Master Vampire..

I’ll Be Slaying You is a heated Bayou romantic fantasy as two individuals find their respective souls when they fall in love. Both understand the grim mission, but each hides something critical from their lover as trust does not come easy to either of them. Readers will enjoy the star-crossed romance between the vampire and the vampire slayer.

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Can’t Get Enough Of You-Bette Ford

Can’t Get Enough Of You
Bette Ford
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061728815

When Jenna Gaines was five she was separated from her two siblings as each was placed in different foster homes. Her life goal has been to be reunited with her twin sister Lena and their older brother by one year Lincoln. Meanwhile over the two decades and a half, she worked hard to obtain her Ph.D., succeeded on Wall St in a job she hated, and now at thirty one is returning to Detroit to teach economics at the University of Detroit-Mercy. Jenna also plans to hire a private investigator to locate her siblings.

Her former fiancé Scott Hendricks is back in Detroit seeking a degree after a career with the NBA. He is going to attend the U D at Mercy. The pair meets up and realize though they went their separate ways, they remain in love with one another. Neither are quite comfortable with the idea, but he is there for her as her detective Mr. Collagen believes he found Linc in Cleveland, which renews her hopes for reconnecting with her sister too though her images remain in the distant past.

This is a fun second chance in two ways as the siblings reunite though not quite as Jenna expected and the former lovers also reunite though not quite what either expected. Although a rather straightforward no dunks tale, fans will enjoy Bette Ford’s solid contemporary romance as a woman seeking her family and a former NBA star (see Can’t Say No for Ms. Ford’s previously retired professional basketball player) finding love for the second time with each other.

Harriet Klausner

Claimed by a Scottish Lord-Melody Thomas

Claimed by a Scottish Lord
Melody Thomas
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061898709

Twenty years old Rose Lancaster has lived her life inside the cloistered Hope Abbey. She has also dreamed much of her life of escaping from her gilded cage to see the world outside the cloisters and to meet her father. She finds an ancient ring that brings her new hope.

Thus in 1755 towering Rose is in a Scottish village when she learns of the return of Ruark Kerr Lord Roxburghe, who was away for over a decade. The Black Dragon as he is known has come home to claim his rightful position and ransom his brother from the English Lord Hereford. He seeks an edge when he negotiates with the tough border warden and knows he needs a chip; Hereford’s missing (for years) daughter, Lady Roselyn. Ruark meets Rose because her height makes her stand out in a crowd. He believes she is Roselyn so abducts her to trade her for his brother. As they fall in love while he escorts her to Hereford, each will scrutinize their desire vs their family allegiance

This is a warm Georgian Era romance with a wee touch of Arthurian fantasy. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing of beloved enemies while her father is his and his clan’s biggest adversary. Fast-paced throughout, fans will enjoy this straightforward by the book eighteenth century borders romance as the captor wonders just who is the captive.

Harriet Klausner

The Duke’s Captive-Adele Ashworth

The Duke’s Captive
Adele Ashworth
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061474842

In 1856 young widow Viola Bennington-Jones was married for about eleven months when her spouse Baron Cheshire died several years ago. She has one objective in life; being the best momma to her four year old son John Henry though she loves to draw and is quite good at it.

However, her comfortable world as an aristocratic single mom raising a baron abruptly ends at a gala. There she see Ian Wentworth who has returned to London as a wealthy Duke seeking revenge against those who drugged and held him captive, starting with Viola. He flirts with her while pretending he is unsure when they met and commissions her to paint his portrait. .He plans to also go after her sisters who incarcerated him as well. Her biggest fear is he will remember what happened between them as she conceals a secret from him.

This is an entertaining refreshing Victorian romance in which his captivity five years earlier makes for a brisk read. Viola and Ian are an intriguing gem of a pairing as each cooks up a humble love pie but that delicacy may not be strong enough to overcome their previous encounter.

Harriet Klausner

I Kissed An Earl-Julie Anne Long

I Kissed An Earl
Julie Anne Long
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061885662

At a gala, Violet Redmond and Captain Asher “Savage” Flint a new Earl meet; with him is his first mate Lord Lavay. The Crown has assigned the sea captain to end the reign of notorious pirate Le Chat whose vessel is called Olivia, the name of the woman who broke her brother’s heart. Asher believes Violet’s missing brother Lyon is Le Chat.

Recognizing what a gypsy foretold her and what she overheard between the earl and his first mate, Violet sneaks onto Flint’s vessel as he heads to Cadiz. Flint finds his stowaway and is charmed by her sibling allegiance, but even as they fall in love he plans to insure that the pirate has no more cat lives.

The latest Pennyroyal Green historical (see Like No Other Lover) is a strong entry as love is tested and seems doomed to failure if Lyon proves to be le Chat as both lead characters believe. Fast-paced, this high seas romance is an entertaining tale as her brother whether he is the pirate or not stands between the Earl and the Lady as they are conflicted over her sibling.

Harriet Klausner

The Brazen Bride-Stephanie Laurens

The Brazen Bride
Stephanie Laurens
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061795176

In 1822, Logan Monteith and three others fled Bombay using four different routes to reach England with information that will destroy a traitor to the Crown. Only one of the four has the genuine proof, but the Black Cobra Cult must go after each one as they have no way of knowing who carries the real evidence.

Logan reaches Lisbon, a hot bed of Black Cobra Cult agents waiting for him. He manages to get on the Heloise Leger, a Portuguese merchant vessel bound for Portsmouth, but in the English Channel they run into trouble from the weather and from cult assassins.

On Guernsey, another shipwreck leaves many dead with one survivor. Linnet Trevission takes in the amnesiac and heals his other injuries. He admires her courage and skills, but as his memory returns he knows he must complete the mission. However having been seen with Linnet by the Black Cobra assassins, he takes her with him as he travels to the estate of the Duke of Wolvestone.

The late Regency romantic suspense story line is refreshed by having most of the adventure in England yet also contains constant exciting action as the tough yet seemingly inept Cult mount attack after attack. Fast-paced throughout, fans will enjoy this engaging Black Cobra entry as the lead couple is another delightful pairing of a brave man with a brazen woman.

Harriet Klausner

Friday, June 18, 2010

Give Me A Texas Ranger-Jodi Thomas, Linda Broday, Phyliss Miranda and DeWanna Pace

Give Me A Texas Ranger
Jodi Thomas, Linda Broday, Phyliss Miranda and DeWanna Pace
Zebra, Jul 1 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9781420111743

“The Ranger’s Angel” by Jodi Thomas. In 1870, former Army nurse Annaline Barkley comes from DC to assist her brother the physician with his practice. However she and three men are trapped inside a stagecoach station surrounded by Randolph Thorn and his gang. She persuades Ranger Wynn McCord to take her with him as he flees into the night seeking to find help. ZSuoerbstorytelling

“Undertaking Texas” by Linda Broday. In 1883 Ranger Stoney Burke arrives in Devils Creek where his best friend’s widow Texanna Wilder raises her six years old son while struggling with the demands of her odious late husband’s half brother Marcus LaRoach. Marcus demands Texanna marry him so she will give him the undertaker/barber shop business she runs. Stoney intercedes on her behalf out of his respect for the late Sam. A gret romance

“One Woman One Ranger” by Phyliss Miranda. In 1881 suspended Ranger Hayden McGrew arrives in Buffalo Springs seeking a new copy of his orders that he will pick up at Molly Louis Tavern. When a lynch mob goes after Ella Patience Stevenson, Hayden intercedes insisting she is his wife. Justice of the Peace Scott makes them sign as married in the register as required by the law; which means they are married. Soon he gets involved with stopping a bootlegging operation that endangers his wife. Exciting!

“The Perfect Match” by DeWanna Pace. In 1896 El Paso, like all the Rangers, Thomas Longbow is assigned to prevent the boxing match between Pete Maher and Bob Fitzsimmons. Thomas notices Pete sneak into town stopping at the leather wares shop. Pete orders from owner Laney O’Grady customized boxing gloves as his trainer lost his. Thomas believes Laney knows where the fight is going to take place so he tries to coax it out of her. Refreshing and enjoyable short story

As with the previous Give Me A Texan anthology, these are four enjoyable post Civil War nineteenth century Texas romances starring strong lead characters and solid settings.

Harriet Klausner

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Under Her Spell-J. A. Ferguson

Under Her Spell
J. A. Ferguson
ImaJinn, Jun 15 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9781933417424

In 1897 the Amazing Nightingales travel the circuit as Roland the magician performs with his sister Madeleine as his assistant. They go from small town to even smaller villages while Roland dreams of making it in London. Though she wants her sibling to be happy, she realistically knows he lacks their late father’s prestidigitator skills.

At a performance in Kent, Madeleine’s distraction makes Roland look more inept than usual, as she is sidetracked by attendee Christopher Sheffield. He is hosting a Faire at Sheffield Priory to extensively celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, but in fact to introduce his rustic mom to his London mistress Allegra to make his life easier. She learns that Gilbert Birmingham owner of London’s Birmingham theater will attend the Sheffield Faire so she wants to attend hoping her brother will gain his dream. As Christopher forgets his mistress and even his mom, he wants Madeleine ever since he stole a kiss that has placed him Under Her Spell. She is attracted to him, but knows he will hurt her when he magically disappears from her life even as she magically heals his mom’s aching joints, his niece-ward’s aching loneliness and his forlorn heart yet ironically Roland and Allegra seem to connect.

This is a fun lighthearted late Victorian paranormal romance starring a woman with real magical healing skills concealed as the assistant to her untalented unaccountable brother in his magical act and an aristocrat who simply finds himself Under Her Spell. Fast-paced with a touch of irony fans will enjoy the lower class healer and the noble falling in love, but illusion comes naturally to her and he will soon bitterly learn other loved ones too.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

The Gift of Love-Lori Foster, Jules Bennett, Heidi Betts, Ann Christopher, Lisa Cooke, Paige Cuccaro, Gia Dawn and HelenKay Dimon

The Gift of Love
Lori Foster, Jules Bennett, Heidi Betts, Ann Christopher, Lisa Cooke, Paige Cuccaro, Gia Dawn and HelenKay Dimon
Berkley, Jun 1 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234280

“For the Love of Wendy” by Foster. Widower Jack raises his beloved learning disability child Wendy with help from caretaker Briana who he also loves.

“Ava’s Haven” by Bennett. In Alabama teen Carly calls Olivia of Ava’s Haven shelter to help her; Livie rushes over to the police station to find Detective Colin, who broke her heart, there.

“Skin Deep” by Betts. Manhattan model Sophie arrives in Pennsylvania to persuade Mac the photographer to develop a comeback portfolio for both of them; she from a fire that burned 20% of her body and he from addiction.

“Atticus Gets a Mommy”” by Christopher. Wheelchair bound architect Keenan loves Diana but believes she deserves a whole man; while she believes he is a coward as he is her whole man.

“The Redemption of Brodie Grant” by Cooke. In 1886 Texas, Brodie comes home for his sister’s wedding to the man he loathes Leo, but falls in love with Sara, sister of the groom.

“The Wolf Watcher’s Diet” by Cuccaro. A distracted, Ella crashes when she avoids a big dog only to have a man grab her; the dog rescues her but accidentally bites her. Luke explains he is not a dog but a werewolf and she is his soulmate.

“A Fairy Precious Love” by Dawn. Honeysuckle lost her wings to the blight that cost her the love of her life Wolf-moss the king who had no choice but to perform duty over love. Now his niece has the blight so the monarch and protector of the wingless meet and know they remain in love.

“Second Time Around” by Dimon. Single dad Heath loves his son’s teacher Serena, but he hurt her years ago when he was a star athlete who rejected her offer to be her first.

Besides containing an octet of enjoyable romances that provide a wide span of loving relationships, all author proceeds go to The Conductive Learning Center of Cincinnati.

Harriet Klausner

Cherry Adair, Gena Showalter, and Lorie O'Clare-Cherry Adair, Gena Showalter, and Lorie O'Clare

Cherry Adair, Gena Showalter, and Lorie O'Clare
St. Martin's, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN 9780312943233

"Temptation on Ice" by Cherry Adair. T-FLAC operative Sebastian Tremayne can turn seemingly invisible when he wants. His current assignment takes him and his partner Anatoly Cohen to a Russian Decommissioned Sub Base in the Arctic Circle where he is to keep the woman he loves and met five times before but never alone, nuclear physicist Dr. Michaela Giese safe.

"Temptation in Shadows" by Gena Showalter. Secret Agent Sean Walker controls the shadows between the living and the living. His current assignment is to rescue and keep the woman he loves Gabrielle Huit safe.

"Hunting Temptation" by Lorie O'Clare. Human Seth Gere is a bounty hunter in search of serial killing Tray Long while falling in love with the sister of his prime informant Jeremy Drury. Unaware that the siblings are werewolves, Seth vows to keep the woman he loves Jenna Drury safe from the monster he stalks.

These are three fun urban fantasy romantic suspense tales that fans of the authors will enjoy, but none of the paranormal thrillers contain the depth to maintain high levels of tension.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, June 14, 2010

Barely A Lady

Barely A Lady
Eileen Dreyer
Forever, Jul 1 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446542081

Olivia lost her standing in polite society following her divorce from the Duke of Gracechurch. The scandal left Grace with few options. Currently she is a stay out of the Ton’s way companion with a young son.

She accompanies her employer Mrs. Bottomly and her three daughters to Brussels where much of the Ton has temporarily relocated from London as the war heats up in nearby Waterloo. Once the battle ends, Olivia tries to help the wounded when she finds her former husband Jack, lying unconscious wearing the enemy’s uniform. Stunned that Jack would betray their country, she nurses him, but he has limited amnesia; unaware of what he or Olivia has done for the last five years; in fact he believes they remain married. She pretends to be his wife in order to learn if her ex is a traitor. As they fall back in love, someone lurks in the shadows ready to destroy both of them.

Barely a Lady is a thrilling Regency romance with an intriguing beginning as the Ton has relocated to be near the battlefield, but the galas continue even with blood flowing. In fairness some of the nobles die during the battle, others like Jack are inured and some of the ladies volunteer to help. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Olivia finds Jack and never slows down. Although amnesia is a frequently used matchmaking mechanism, Eileen Dreyer keeps her plot fresh with the underlying question of whether he is a traitor.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Daring A Duke-Claudia Dain

Daring A Duke
Claudia Dain
Berkley, Jul 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235461

In 1802 American Jane Elliot leaves New York for the London upper crust swinging adventure scene. Her problems are her two sea captain brothers and her aristocratic British cousins are a flock of hawks watching her every move; one day in town and already she feels like a prisoner in a gilded cage. They want her to get married, but Jane came to England for fun not a husband.

She is attracted to the Duke of Edenham and he apparently reciprocates her regard. Courtesan matchmaker Sophia Dalby notices the Yank who is the daughter of a former friend and the Duke seems perfect for each other and obviously wants each other. Yet they dance apart especially after the visitor makes it clear she has no plans to get married while enjoying her first season. Sophia likes the challenge posed by the reluctant American but also stays alert as the Duke of Ruan is sniffing around her.

Though somewhat similar in tone, the latest Courtesan Chronicles (see The Courtesan’s Wager, The Courtesan's Daughter and The Courtesan's Secret) once again, though a secondary player, Dalby steals the show in this well written amusing Regency romance. Fast-paced from the moment a desperate Jane tries to elude her handlers and never slowing down, fans will appreciate the shameless Dalby as she matches the lead couple up while also handling a personal matter.

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Courtesan’s Kiss-Mary Blayney

Courtesan’s Kiss
Mary Blayney
Bantam, Jun 22 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780553593136

In 1819, the fickle Ton blames Mia Castellano for her broken engagement although her fiancé is totally at fault; logic never intrudes on the gossip. Surprisingly, she finds being ostracized as liberating as being able to say no. Mia wants the freedom to choose her lovers and declaring no to those she does not desire. Her only way to achieve total freedom is as a courtesan.

His brother the Duke of Meryon (see Stranger’s Kiss) has asked Lord David Pennistan to escort Mia to see his wife, her guardian, in Derbyshire. Along the journey, trouble is the norm for the pair, but the most troublesome is their growing attraction that neither wants. When they end up compromised he offers marriage, she rejects him. David must persuade Mia he loves her and marriage will free her even more than being a fallen woman.

The forth “Kiss” Pennistan Regency romance (see Traitor's Kiss and Lover's Kiss) is a terrific entry. The table is set early as Mia makes it clear to her escort what her future is. Although the theme of a woman struggling between love and independence is not new, Mary Blayney uses the courtesan role as a fresh liberator that focuses on how limited female choices were amidst the aristocracy.

Harriet Klausner

Twice Tempted By A Rogue-Tessa Dare

Twice Tempted By A Rogue
Tessa Dare
Ballantine, Jun 22 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780345518873

After years at war with a death wish never granted, battered combat vet Lord Rhys St. Maur comes home to Devonshire. He enters the Three Hounds Inn in Buckleigh-in-the-Moor where a fight has broken out. Before he can intercede a beautiful woman ends the dispute. He learns she is no barmaid but Mrs. Meredith Maddox, the widowed wife of the old owner.

Meredith loved Rhys before he left for the service. She fears she still does. He is attracted to her but believes he does not deserve love. As she encourages him to work hard at overcoming his demons, they investigate the murder of his friend and nasty treacherous smugglers while the locals distrust Rhys.

This is a terrific Stud Club Regency romance (see One Dance with a Duke) starring a feisty kick butt female and a PTSD veteran who had memorial issues before he ran off to die at war. Readers will enjoy their escapades as the townsfolk trust the double-dealing smugglers more than the returning lord; which speaks volumes of the class warfare. Starting with Meredith stopping a fight in the inn by ripping skin off the combatants, Twice Tempted By A Rogue is a strong Stud Club entry.

Harriet Klausner

Friday, June 11, 2010

My Lady’s Pleasure-Olivia Quincy

My Lady’s Pleasure
Olivia Quincy
Signet, Jul 6 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451230072

In 1895, free spirited modern thinking Lady Georgiana Vernon and Lord Jeremy Staunton are politely friendly in society; but at night with no prying eyes, they are wild lovers. Both enjoy their sexual escapades.

As the elite gather at Penfield for Lord Laughlin's annual rustic masquerade bal, Lady Georgiana Vernon the sexually liberated daughter of an Earl meets the estate’s landscape architect Barnes. They are attracted to each other from the first moment they set eyes on each other and begin a heated tryst. However, over the next few days their lovemaking soon leads to Barnes angrily accusing her of cavalierly trifling with his feelings especially when their affair becomes known. However, he never expected that his lover will become the victim of threats and accidents from an unknown adversary.

This heated late Victorian romance is a great historical as the heroine learns a lot about herself and the feelings of others during her week at Penfield. Georgiana makes the tale as her attitude changes during the stay from a hedonistic selfish person to a woman considering the feelings of others. With a bit of suspense enhancing the strong story line, readers will enjoy My Lady’s Pleasure due to Georgiana’s rapid maturing.

Harriet Klausner

Cupid Cats- Katie MacAlister, Vicki Lewis Thompson and Connie Brockway

Cupid Cats
Katie MacAlister, Vicki Lewis Thompson and Connie Brockway
Signet, Jul 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451230720

“Unleashed” by Katie MacAlister. Fish and Wildlife Officer Jacintha “kitty whisperer” Ferreira arrives at the Cupid Cats shelter to investigate a Moravian jaguar inside with a hangover. Instead of just a large feline she finds voices in her head courtesy of vampire Avery Scott.

“Cat Scratch Fever” by Connie Brockway. In Chicago, Widower Jim Curran takes his five years old Chloe to the nearby animal shelter so she can pick a kitten as her pet. However, the little girl insiststhat an elderly cat is her late mother’s long-missing Pixie. While her father and shelter director Dr. Edith Handelman know that is impossible, no one bothered to tell the cat.

“A Cat’s Game” by Vicki Lewis Thompson. While her sister is on vacation, Kate Archer manages her sibling’s bed and breakfast in Bisbee, Arizona. Her first arrival is her high school sweetheart Jon Ramsey. It is the newly adopted cat who plays matchmaker.

These are three fun lightheaded feline romances as a cat stars in Kate MacAlister’s urban fantasy and plays matchmaker in the other two tales.

Harriet Klausner

Chains Of Ice-Christina Dodd

Chains Of Ice
Christina Dodd
Signet, Jul 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451412911

After a horrific life, John Powell feels he has finally found a place where he belongs. He likes working for the Gypsy Travel Agency especially on Gary White’s team as an operative seeking the lost Chosen. However, In Indonesia his idyllic world with Sun Hee implodes; leaving John once again feeling alone. Despondent, he flees into self exile in the Ural Mountains where he has remained hidden for five years.

Almost a decade ago, Kevin Valente was fired from the Gypsy Travel Agency barely avoiding prison. His family life was destroyed. Now his daughter Genny graduates from grad school and he gives her a present with a stipulation. If she would like to join Koslov’s study team in the Russian Urals to study a rare lynx, Genny must find John the recluse and get him to come in from the cold. She is unaware what she has signed onto when it comes to John which includes peril and her heart.

The third Chosen Ones saga (see Storm of Visions and Storm of Shadows) is an exciting mountain romantic fantasy that grips readers once the heroine heads to Europe. Fast-paced, readers anticipate a triangulation in the Urals as the Others, John and Genny converge with fans wondering who will return to New York City.

Harriet Klausner

My Way To Hell-Dakota Cassidy

My Way To Hell
Dakota Cassidy
Berkley, Jul 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234433

Raging Lucifer punishes demon Marcella Acosta for defying orders and saving the soul of her BFF (OF is more accurate as only friend) Delaney Markham (see Kiss and Hell). Her punishment is the loss of her demonic status and exile into some sort of purgatory between heaven and hell, but not earth as no malls or coffeehouses arein sight.

As a ghost she fails to make contact with mortals until she decides to go after the human she most wanted as a demon, Delaney’s brother Kellen. He has psychic issues that he feels are psycho as seemingly beings from beyond contact him; the most persistent being his sister’s friend Marcella who he hid his attraction for her from everyone. As he realizes a child is in danger from a stalking demon and knows he must act, his nocturnal desires for Marcella brings her back to his side.

This amusing urban fantasy romance brings together a lead pair that fans of the saga will appreciate especially after the Kiss and Hell escapades (and rejection). Fast-paced albeit a bit thin in plotting, fans will enjoy that Marcella is back burning tamales and peanut butter as only a retired sexagenarian former demon could when she becomes a not so average woman in love.

Harriet Klausner

Dark Embers-Tessa Adams

Dark Embers
Tessa Adams
Heat, Jul 6 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780451230584

The Dragonstar clan of dragon shapeshifters is dying. Their last hope before extinction wipes them out is their King Dylan MacLeod, but he has searched for his soul mate unsuccessfully for five centuries; she is the only one h can truly mate and sire a child with.

His people need help now so Dylan leaves his realm to enter the vile human sector seeking a cure to the deadly plague eradicating his clan. He turns to research biochemist Phoebe Quillum, whose Ivy league grant was canceled, agrees to investigate the conflagrant and its cure in exchange for three million dollars that she will use in her search for a cure to an extreme form of Lupus that killed her mother and sister. However, neither the purebred dragon-shifter nor the purebred human expected to fall in love. As she diligently seeking the elixir, the clan’s enemies continue their pandemic assault.

The first Dragon’s Heat romantic fantasy is a wonderful shapeshifter tale starring a beleaguered hero and the equally forlorn woman he cherishes who is his last hope for his clan and his heart. Although too many subplots intrude, Dark Embers is an entertaining novel that fans will enjoy soaring with dragons.

Harriet Klausner

Insatiable-Lauren Dane

Insatiable
Lauren Dane
Heat, Jul 6 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425235263

Her father Ciro Fardelle, the Verses Imperial Supreme Commander arranges for his daughter Carina to marry one of his as evil monsters. Her mother Esta is willing to die to see her beloved daughter not pawned to any of these malevolent thugs as she had been when she was fourteen. She grabs some information chips to give to her daughter and abets Carina’s escape.

The Federation learns that the daughter of their enemy is looking for asylum and has information they can use to perhaps prevent what looks inevitable a nasty war. Phantom Corps covert leader Daniel Haws mounts the rescue knowing that the Supreme Commander will be coming after them with a vengeance. However, neither he nor his natural enemy Carina expected to fall in love while on the run.

Although in the Federation universe with ties to Daniel’s Relentless sister Abbie, Insatiable widens the Dane realm by focusing on the Phantom Corps. The story line is fast-paced and loaded with action as the irresistible force meets the unmovable object when two enemies from different life stations fall into heated love with her father fuming in pursuit. This is quite a sizzler.

Harriet Klausner

Unbridled

Unbridled
Beth Williamson
Heat, Jul 6 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425236147

With the death of her beloved David who as a sexagenarian was twice her age, Alex Finley knows it is time to go home. David’s family wants her to leave anyway as they assume she is a gold-digger even though ironically she only took the car he gave her with her. Alex leaves California heading to her family ranch in Wyoming; a place she left a decade ago following the death of her beloved mother and her anger at her cheating late father who left his cancer stricken wife and daughter.

She learns you can never go home as the spread she remembers is now a dude ranch run by Connor Matthews and her father has been dead for two years. He expects the returning prodigal daughter to challenge her deceased father’s will; as she loathes her stepmother and tolerates her stepbrother Daniel; neither of whom she never knew existed before now. However, as she and Connor fall in lust and love, he fears she will sell her interest in the Finley Ranch before fleeing Wyoming again.

This heated ranch romance is filled with angst and lust though the past is too underdeveloped to appreciate what fully led to the estrangement in which a teenage girl was able to fall off the grid. Ergo, the audience only obtains Alex’s perspective until the very end, which detracts from what otherwise could have been a powerful character driven tale. Still the cast is solid and the sex hot as Beth Williamson proves you can go home if the heart is willing.

Harriet Klausner

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Shadow Bound-Erin Kellison

Shadow Bound
Erin Kellison
Leisure, Jul 1 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505528292

In Appalachia, West Virginia, Adam Thorne is an obsessive dreamer wanting his Segue Institute to succeed. He has put up his vast inheritance to fund the foundation and backed that with time. His personal goal is to kill his brother Jacob a former CEO turned wraith; who he has incarcerated for six years with little success; while the institutes’ mission is to study vampiric wraiths.

Adam believes he has found the solution in Talia O’Brien who suffered a near death experience. She has the uncanny paranormal ability to cloak herself in the darkness so that neither humans nor wraiths can detect her. However, she must learn to use her ability, but loathes applying it as she detests being different. Adam mentors Talia but conceals from her is motive with a caring nurturing veneer.

This is a fascinating urban romantic fantasy starring an obsessed lead male and the woman he plans to use as a tool to achieve his immediate objective of fratricide though he knows his sibling is no longer human. The story line is fast-paced, but the criticality that makes it fun to read is that wraiths and an enigmatic Shadowman seen genuine. Fans will relish this entertaining tale as Adam begins to fall in love with his latest weapon to kill his wraith sibling.

Harriet Klausner

The Scarlet Contessa-Jeanne Kalogridis

The Scarlet Contessa
Jeanne Kalogridis
St. Martin’s, Jul 6 2010, $25.99
ISBN: 9780312369538

Daughter of the Duke of Milan, Caterina Sforza marries the illegitimate son of Pope Sixtus. He is a pathetic paranoid while though she grew up spoiled she proves energetic, ambitious, and intelligent. She befriends the rich and influential while he makes no efforts to improve the family.

Caterina depends only on her loyal lady-in-waiting Dea as her advisor. Dea uses her skill at reading Triumph (Tarot) cards to assist her lady even as her loved ones are murdered. In 1499 Cesare Borgia lays siege to the Fortress of Ravaldino while Caterina struggles to survive his advances even when he abducts and tortures Dea. Caterina wonders if the Mendican preachers are right that the end of the world is just a few weeks away; at least on her orb.

Interestingly the story is told through Dea’s filter, but though she is devoted and brave, the courage of The Scarlet Contessa grips fans of biographical fiction. Jeanne Kalogridis is at her best with this strong historical that brings alive late fifteenth century Italy; as once again the author entertains readers with an insightful look at Renaissance Italy (see The Borgia Bride and I, Mona Lisa).

Harriet Klausner

Dangerous Desires-Dee Davis

Dangerous Desires
Dee Davis
Forever, Jul 1 2010, $6.99
ISBN: 9780446542043

Drake Flynn distrusts women. He wants nothing to do with females as all they do is betray men and, for that matter, women too. Thus he wants to refuse his assignment to rescue Madeline Reynard from a Columbian drug cartel, but he end up doing the mission.

Drake is stunned by his attraction to Madeline. Still she worked for a drug lord and her gender adds to his distrust of her. Madeline has spent much of her life trying to save her sister. This has meant going to San Mateo Prison in Colombia and working for an abusive crime lord. When her drug addicted sibling Jenny dies, Madeline wants out so she flees and ends up with Drake. She distrusts men as much as he distrusts women; still he is her only hope out, but she also knows he loathes wanting her. As they trek through the jungle to a rendezvous rescue point, Drake suspects she will betray him to her former employer to save her skin if circumstances warrant it.

The latest A-Tac “Dee-lightful" romantic suspense (see Dark Deception) is a fast-paced, exciting action-packed jungle adventure. The lead couple makes the thriller fun as each is a misanthrope trusting no one and expecting their associate on the run to betray them at the first opportunity. Filled with plenty of twists and spins, fans will want to join (as an armchair potato) Drake and Madeline as they flee for their loves.

Harriet Klausner

Rushed To The Altar-Jane Feather

Rushed To The Altar
Jane Feather
Pocket, Jun 22 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439145241

In 1761 the three Sullivan siblings (Jasper St. John and his twin brothers Sebastian and Peregrine) learn the conditions of their inheriting from their still living reformed rakish uncle Viscount Bradley. His lawyer Alton explains that they must ‘save” and marry a fallen woman in need of salvation before their uncle dies.

The oldest brother Jasper an Earl has no plans to meet the conditions of his uncle’s will though he could use the money to pay off the mortgages on the estates he will inherit. However, fate intervenes when he meets Clarissa Astley in a seedier side of town. He assumes her being there unescorted means she is a prostitute; he scoffs at her being an innocent searching for her missing brother Francis abducted by their guardian Uncle Luke while also eluding his nefarious plans for her. He makes her his mistress. However as they fall in love, he knows she was not the hooker he thought she was and marrying her means he failed to meet the intent of the will, but marrying her he will.

The first Blackwater Georgian romance is a fun lustful historical starring two likable lead characters and a strong support cast. Clarissa makes the tale work as she tries to pretend to be what she is not while enlisting the aid of the rake and his two “musketeer” brothers. Fans will enjoy the opening act as the rake needs to wed a hooker, but never expected to be hooked by love.

Harriet Klausner

My Dangerous Duke-Gaelen Foley-

My Dangerous Duke
Gaelen Foley
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061733970

In 1816 Cornwell, the smugglers drug Kate Madsen so they can abduct her and hand her over to the Duke of Warrington, known as the Beast; in order to appease his wrath. Kate refuses to cooperate with either the kidnappers of the beast.

Believing he is cursed just like all his family males, Rohan Kilburn works for the Crown as an assassin. He conceals his activity by being a card carrying member of the Inferno Club, just like the other so called wastrels who belong. He returns to his family castle in Cornwall where he is known as the Beast and where allegedly the ghosts of the murdered wives of his cursed ancestors linger. His job is to end the smuggling, but even he is taken aback when the latest stolen merchandise is kissable Kate. She may end the curse and he may help her understand her heritage as they fall in love, but he fears he will have to kill his beloved as he thinks she may be an enemy agent instead of a “gift”. However, neither is aware someone evil waits their entering a deadly maze.

The second Inferno Club Regency romance us enjoyable historical filled with action starting with the kidnapping of the heroine for several weeks and never slowing down especially once the smugglers present beauty to the beast. Fully engrossing with plenty of action, readers will enjoy the adventures of Rohan and Kate as he falls in love with his “gift” and his “gift” falls in love with him.

Harriet Klausner

Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage-Jennifer Ashley

Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage
Jennifer Ashley
Berkley, Jul 6 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235454

In 1875 when she was eighteen, Lady Isabella Scranton and Lord Mackenzie eloped; his family delighted in their marriage while hers disowned her Three years later, Isabella walked out of her marriage to the shock of her spouse and the condemnation for her scandalous behavior by the Ton.

Her estranged husband is a talented painter and three years since she left him, Isabella discovered someone is forging Mac’s work. She goes to see him, but he is more concerned over winning a wager that he can paint an erotic portrait. He wants his wife to pose as the subject; she prefers to catch the forger. As they work on the painting the felonies, they recall why they fell in love and married; however neither is prepared for the forger whose obsession turns to having Isabella live and on canvas.

Jennifer Ashley follows up on the magnificent Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie with a sibling’s strong Victorian second chance at love romance and a solid supporting mystery. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing of a debauched rake knowing he is not good enough for the goodness of his wife and a not so innocent “debutant”. Readers will relish this terrific historical wondering why did the wife who obviously loves her husband leave him.

Harriet Klausner

Chapter and Hearse-Lorna Barnett

Chapter and Hearse
Lorna Barnett
Berkley, Aug 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425236017

Bob Kelly might not be the nicest person in New England, but he was instrumental in saving his hometown of Stoneham, New Hampshire from financial bankruptcy. He somehow got several booksellers to open up stores in the town; this proved so successful the village is famous as Booktown.

One of the new proprietors Tricia Mills, owner of Haven’t Got a Clue, is hosting a book signing for her sister who just published a cookbook. Angelica owns the Cookery and the Booked for Lunch. When Angelica’s boyfriend Bobfails to show up, Tricia looks for him and notices he is talking with Jim Roth of History Repeats Itself. When she returns to her store, an explosion occurs, which destroys History Repeats Itself, kills Jim and injures Bob. Once Angelica knows her boyfriend is okay, she goes on her book tour. Meanwhile the police conclude Jim was murdered and have three suspects with strong motives including the victim’s mother. Other people wanted him dead too. Tricia places herself in danger searching for a killer who will do anything to remain anonymous.

Chapter and Hearse is filled with action, but is character driven by the visitors and small town eccentrics who turn the cozy wonderfully and amusingly convoluted. The protagonist is strong willed and independent who believes in doing the right thing (a too frequently used trait of the amateur sleuth) even when the police and others tell her to butt out of their inquiry. Lorna Barnett has written a delightful amateur sleuth filled with red herrings and false leads that keep reader interest from the explosion till the explosive climax.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

A Groom Of One’s Own-Maya Rodale

A Groom Of One’s Own
Maya Rodale
Avon, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061922985

In 1822 at the church in Buckinghamshire, the man she is engaged to marry Matthew Fletcher breaks off their relationship saying marriage is a commitment. Stunned, Sophie Harlow writes off marriage. Thus it is ironic because one year after her disavowal of marital bliss and her fall from grace, she obtains a position as one of the four Writing Girls; her column is Miss Harlow’s Marriage in High Life for the London Weekly.

For the Weekly, Sophie covers the wedding of the Duke of Hamilton Brandon to Lady Clarissa, daughter of the Duke of Richmond. She would like to beg off because she is very attracted to the groom, but must attend if she is to keep her job. To her amazement the Duke appears to want her and to both their shock, the bride seems more interested in a foreign prince. However, the quartet is all honorable people so no one will take that critical first step to disentangle the wrong pairings into the loving relationships.

The first Writing Girl’s Regency romance is a screwball comedy of errors that feels like combing Sheridan’s The School for Scandal with a 1930s madcap movie inside a regency romance. The story line is fast-paced throughout as the quartet dance to love but with the wrong partners. Maya Rodale provides a wonderfully zany historical with three other Writing Girls to go.

Harriet Klausner

Tempting A Proper Lady-Debra Mullins

Tempting A Proper Lady
Debra Mullins
Avon, Jun 8 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061882494

In 1876 in London, Cilla Burke works for wealthy American Dolly Bailey as her personal assistant. She wants to do the best job possible for her employer. When Samuel Breedlove crashes the engagement party of Dolly’s daughter Annabelle to the Duke of Raventhorpe, Cilla intervenes; demanding he leave.

Samuel is stunned as the duke left him marooned on an island and now is marrying his beloved. He will do what it takes to destroy the blackguard and get his woman back as Breedlove will not allow Hurricane Cilla from stopping him. As they battle and fuss, the pair falls in love; however what allies them is not the heart, but Cilla now believes Samuel’s contention. She unites with her beloved enemy to rescue her employer’s daughter from the monster she is to marry.

This is an amusing yet also tense Victorian romance starring a strong cast. The lead characters are a likable pair, but he no longer believes in love and she feels guilt over falling in love with Annabelle’s sweetheart. While the vile villain has no redeeming qualities, historical fans will enjoy this jocular suspense thriller while wondering if Samuel will realize he can still love somebody in spite of his ordeal.

Harriet Klausner

McKettricks Of Texas: Austin-Linda Lael Miller

McKettricks Of Texas: Austin
Linda Lael Miller
Harlequin HQN, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373774463

Depressingly yet euphoric, Paige knows she is torn as the last Remington sister left standing single. She will be the bridesmaid at a double ceremony of her siblings Julie (to Garrett McKettrick) and Libby (to Tate McKettrick). Making matters worse she is not at home since her house is undergoing renovation.

Unemployed, she is even unhappier when the man who broke her heart, Austin McKettrick returns home after overcoming his doubts and defeating Buzzsaw the bull that almost killed him. When he is shot, Garrett and Tate hire Paige to take care of him. Austin realizes he still loves Paige and has a new life goal to make her happy, if he can persuade her to take a second chance on him for the rest of their lives.


The third McKettrick-Remington sibling romance is an entertaining by the book tale with a similar plot to the previous entries. The lead couple is a likable pairing of two nice people, but he hurt her before (just like Tate did to Libby) so has his work cut out to persuade his Remington that he is her McKettrick. Fans of the saga will enjoy the merging of the families.

Harriet Klausner

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Undead and Unfinished-MaryJanice Davidson

Undead and Unfinished
MaryJanice Davidson
Berkley, Jul 6 2010, $24.95
ISBN: 9780425234358

Learning just who the mom of her half-sister is (see Undead and Unwelcome) still shakes the soul of vampire Queen Betsy Taylor; that is if vampires keep their souls once converted; if not at least shakes the soles of her new shoes. The last person she wants to deal with is her half-sister former Sunday School teacher the Antichrist Laura.

Laura pleads with her sibling to accompany her as she needs to take a trip to Hell to meet her mommy dearest Lucifer. Betsy agrees that she has nothing better to do than go to Hell, but while visiting the devil’s playground; she negotiates a Faustian deal with Lucifer that allows her to read the Book of the Dead without going insane; or at least crazier than she is. In payment Lucifer simply expects the siblings to have a good time using her hellfire sword that slices through time and place. However, the two sisters soon have a bigger quandary to confront than finding designer shoes as somehow their night on the universe is devastating the future; although the sisters are having problems calculating what future.

To Hell and back to hell as Betsy and Laura just wanna have fun, but soon finds Lucifer crafted a diabolical deal. Humorous as always due to Betsy’s sarcastic in your face (especially her beloved, her sister, some supernaturals, shoe sellers, and Lucifer) as well as scornful asides to the reader. Yet with the acerbic comedic commentary, fans of the saga will enjoy the latest “Un and Un” fantasy as Undead and Unfinished continues the grimmer trend started with the previous Taylor thriller.

Harriet Klausner

Home Is Where the Bark Is-Kandy Shepherd

Home Is Where the Bark Is
Kandy Shepherd
Berkley, Jul 6 2010, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425234297

In San Francisco Nick Whalen brings his Yorkie Bessie to the Paws-A-While doggie day care managed and owned by former model Serena Oakley. She has a difficult time seeing the pair together. After bewildering him with doggy blogs, social networking and doggy-kids, she knows he is doggy clueless especially about pampered pooches. Her assertion is affirmed when she learns the canine’s human pet is Nick’s great-Aunt Alice of Sausalito

A private investigator, he actually is using the pooch to get insider information on Serena as part of an investigation he is conduction on identity theft in which the evidence points to the day care owner. Still Nick is attracted to his only suspect and soon gets involved with a doggy abandonment case that brings them even closer together.

Following up on Love Is a Four-Legged Word, Kandy Shepherd provides another warm investigative doggy romance in which Nick and Serena learn the same lesson that the previous leads learned that WC Field's was right to never co-star with animals; they always steal the show. Fans will relish this jocular romantic suspense as the undercover P.I. and the doggy day care entrepreneur fall in love one bark at a time.

Harriet Klausner

Chased by Moonlight-Nancy Gideon

Chased by Moonlight
Nancy Gideon
Pocket, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439149645

New Orleans Police Detective Charlotte “Cee Cee” Caissie struggles to balance her personal life with her work. Her lover, shapeshifter Max “Monster” Savoie replaced his late boss Jimmie Legere as the chief of the mob (see Nasked by Moonlight). However, at the same time, someone brutally murdered twenty-two year old Tulane student Sandra Cummings, the daughter of Max’s rival Simon, which places him as a person of interest.

Cee Cee believes Max is innocent and vows to solve the homicide case while keeping his shapeshifting secret. She understands she walks a thin line between following her supervisor Alain Babineau’s fidgety orders and protecting her Max. On the other hand Max wants her to leave in order to keep her safe. However, someone seems to know a lot more about Max than even he knows about himself. That unknown adversary schemes to use Max’s unknown birthright that the Monster begs to know to annihilate him and his lover.

Chased by Moonlight is a complex romantic police procedural in which Cee Cee, once again, works a dangerous urban fantasy investigation. The story line is filled with action, but as with Masked by Moonlight is character driven as the star-crossed lovers continue to cross their respective barrier to each other even when the heroic Monster pushes her away from him for her sake. Nancy Gideon provides a taut paranormal whodunit that captures the full attention of sub-genre readers who will look forward to more investigations starring Beauty and the Beast.

Harriet Klausner

Chased by Moonlight-Nancy Gideon

Chased by Moonlight
Nancy Gideon
Pocket, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9781439149645

New Orleans Police Detective Charlotte “Cee Cee” Caissie struggles to balance her personal life with her work. Her lover, shapeshifter Max “Monster” Savoie replaced his late boss Jimmie Legere as the chief of the mob (see Nasked by Moonlight). However, at the same time, someone brutally murdered twenty-two year old Tulane student Sandra Cummings, the daughter of Max’s rival Simon, which places him as a person of interest.

Cee Cee believes Max is innocent and vows to solve the homicide case while keeping his shapeshifting secret. She understands she walks a thin line between following her supervisor Alain Babineau’s fidgety orders and protecting her Max. On the other hand Max wants her to leave in order to keep her safe. However, someone seems to know a lot more about Max than even he knows about himself. That unknown adversary schemes to use Max’s unknown birthright that the Monster begs to know to annihilate him and his lover.

Chased by Moonlight is a complex romantic police procedural in which Cee Cee, once again, works a dangerous urban fantasy investigation. The story line is filled with action, but as with Masked by Moonlight is character driven as the star-crossed lovers continue to cross their respective barrier to each other even when the heroic Monster pushes her away from him for her sake. Nancy Gideon provides a taut paranormal whodunit that captures the full attention of sub-genre readers who will look forward to more investigations starring Beauty and the Beast.

Harriet Klausner

Shadow of the Vampire-Meagan Hatfield

Shadow of the Vampire
Meagan Hatfield
Harlequin HQN, Jul 1 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780373775002

The vampires butchered his parents leaving Declan as the new dragon lord of his shapeshifter clan. Like his late mom and dad, Declan makes a desperate attempt to obtain the Crystal of the Draco his brood needs to survive and avenge the death of his parents. The new king fails and is captured by his enemy.

Locked away until the heir to the vampire throne can torture him like she did his parents, Declan fears the worst for his people. However instead of harming him, the century plus old vampiress Alexia offers to help him if he helps her. She fears her mother’s lover Lotharus has somehow gained control of her mom the queen, who is slowly dying and to save her, Alexia turns to Declan. He feeds from her and finds he obsesses over having more from her. Both remain unaware that Lotharus has plans for the heir once he completes his destruction of the current queen.

This is a wonderful romantic fantasy due to the relationship between the lead couple lovers. Declan is confused as he falls in love with the female he believes tortured and killed his parents. Alexia knows he is her fist chance to overcome the deadly control of Lotharus, but he distrusts her more then she does him. Dragons and vampires do not mate let alone sleep with the enemy. Although the fantasy elements at times are overwhelmed by the star-crossed “mile high” romance, sub-genre readers will believe we are soaring with dragonshifters.

Harriet Klausner

Unchained- Sharon Ashwood

Unchained
Sharon Ashwood
Signet, Jul 6 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451230737

Captain Reynard works as a guard at the supernatural prison known as the Castle. However, though he has a few more liberties than the inmates, he is as locked away as those he watches over. Centuries ago, his choices were taken away from him when he was forced to place his soul in an urn.

When the urn is stolen, Reynard will die. He actually considers giving up on immortality as an escape from the Castle. Widow Ashe Carver was a monster slayer. She understood her profession would cost her custody of her ten year old daughter Eden so she retires and becomes a librarian. Her retirement ends when her brother-on-law the vampire asks her to clean out the monster stalking the bathroom at Fairview Botanical Gardens. Reynard was expecting her to clean the bathroom of the monster so when she arrives he asks for her assistance; reluctantly Ashe, surprised he could leave the Castle, agrees to help him find his soul. At the same time the Castle is undergoing a radical adjustment that has the supernatural world wondering how it will all turn out.

The third Dark Forgotten urban fantasy (see Ravenous and Scorched) is a terrific action-adventure thriller that steps away from the mysterious Castle and into the world at large. The lead couple makes for a strong entry as the stressed beyond the max Castle guard is running out of immortality time and the heroine who, though it could cost her the one person that matters, takes on the “client” and his quest to catch a thief. As their attraction grows she knows he would make a perfect centerfold as the “Hot historical hero” of the century and he believes her as lovely as ever. However, beyond the search and rescue, and their entwined hearts, in the background lurks a major supernatural shift. This is an enthralling magical great work by Sharon Ashwood.

Harriet Klausner

Monday, June 7, 2010

Ghost Shadow-Heather Graham

Ghost Shadow
Heather Graham
Mira, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778327912

In Key West, photographer David Beckett takes the group on a tour of his family’s wax museum. They reach the Count von Cosel exhibit however, in the bed near the Count is not waxy version Elena, but the corpse of David’s former fiancée Tanya Barnard. Although everyone suspected David killed her, no evidence proved he did. Still he left town with a cloud hanging over him.

Ten years later, the Barnard homicide remains unsolved as David returns to Key West. With the death of David’s octogenarian grandfather last year, businesswoman Katie O’Hara, a ghost whisperer, wants to buy the wax museum; David opposes the sale. He asks his friend Pete and his cousin Liam, both cops, to reopen the cold case. When a second murder occurs with the victim posed in a nearby museum, the Key West police and Katie wonder if the killer just came home from overseas after a decade away.

Ghost Shadow is an entertaining paranormal romantic suspense. The investigation is fun to follow, but remains in the background to the romance. The heroine in spite of communicating with ghosts (Bartholomew the spirit adds humor to the mix) has doubts about Beckett even as she falls in love with him. With a supernatural nod to Hitchcock’s Suspicion, fans will enjoy Ghost Shadow.

Harriet Klausner

Killing Me Softly-Maggie Shayne

Killing Me Softly
Maggie Shayne
Mira, Jun 29 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778327936

Shadow Falls, Vermont police officer Bryan Kendall was shot in the line of duty. Healed, a party is thrown welcoming him back to work. The next day Bryan awakens up on his bathroom floor. Confused, he enters his bedroom to see Bettina Wright lying dead in his bed.

The murder looks identical to the M.O. of the Nightcap Strangler; who was just executed by the state after fifteen years on death row. Learning what happened from her biological mother, Bryan’s former girlfriend Dawn Jones decides to help him prove his innocence so she comes from the West Coast to New England. She hears voices in her head, but ignores them as she has for five years ever since she broke Bryan’s heart by leaving. However, for Bryan’s sake she heeds the voices when she realizes she is a dead ringer for the latest victim of apparently The Nightcap Strangler.

This is a superb paranormal murder mystery with a supporting second chance at love romantic subplot. The story line is fast-paced with a strong support cast especially the intriguing killer and a great unique witness to the homicide in Bryan’s bedroom. Readers will relish Maggie Shayne’s taut thriller as Bryan and Dawn (see Thicker Than Water and Darker Than Midnight for her previous appearances) work the case while rekindling their love.

Harriet Klausner

Torn Apart-Shane Gericke

Torn Apart
Sharon Sala
Mira, Jul 1 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778327929

Their marriage apparently died several months ago due to his employment and her need to remain in her hometown of Bordelaise, Louisiana keeping them apart. However, Katie and oil troubleshooter J.R. Earle stay connected though separated because they both love and want to be involved with their preadolescent son Bobby.

While J.R. is on an offshore rig, a tornado hits the town causing several deaths and plenty of property damage. Bobby is reported as one of those who died though his body has not been found. However, Bobby’s friend Holly Maxwell who suffered a broken hand, insists she saw a stranger take Bobby with him. Not willing to wait for either the law tied up with the tornado emergency or for J.R., Katie goes after her son.

The second Bayou Storm Front romantic suspense (see Blown Away) is a fast-paced thriller that provides long deep looks into the townsfolk struggling with the emergency including the deaths, and the fears of father, mother and son; especially harrowing is Bobby’s viewpoint as a kidnapped victim. Although the profound character perspectives mute the suspense somewhat, readers will appreciate the lioness vowing to get her cub back from the monster as she refuses to wait for the cops, the Amber Alert or her estranged husband

Harriet Klausner

Torn Apart-Shane Gericke

Torn Apart
Sharon Sala
Mira, Jul 1 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778327929

Their marriage apparently died several months ago due to his employment and her need to remain in her hometown of Bordelaise, Louisiana keeping them apart. However, Katie and oil troubleshooter J.R. Earle stay connected though separated because they both love and want to be involved with their preadolescent son Bobby.

While J.R. is on an offshore rig, a tornado hits the town causing several deaths and plenty of property damage. Bobby is reported as one of those who died though his body has not been found. However, Bobby’s friend Holly Maxwell who suffered a broken hand, insists she saw a stranger take Bobby with him. Not willing to wait for either the law tied up with the tornado emergency or for J.R., Katie goes after her son.

The second Bayou Storm Front romantic suspense (see Blown Away) is a fast-paced thriller that provides long deep looks into the townsfolk struggling with the emergency including the deaths, and the fears of father, mother and son; especially harrowing is Bobby’s viewpoint as a kidnapped victim. Although the profound character perspectives mute the suspense somewhat, readers will appreciate the lioness vowing to get her cub back from the monster as she refuses to wait for the cops, the Amber Alert or her estranged husband

Harriet Klausner

The Whisper-Carla Neggers

The Whisper
Carla Neggers
Mira, Jun 29 2010, $24.95
ISBN: 9780778328513

The bomb in Ireland almost killed Boston detective Cyrus “Scoop” Wisdom. As he recuperates he meets archaeologist Sophie Malone, who had been left for dead in a cave filled with blood and lacking the ancient Celtic treasure, which brought her there. They are attracted to one another.

However, when he returns to Boston, Scoop searches for the bomber. When his prime suspect kills himself, he relooks at Sophie, who found the corpse hanging in a ritual suicide. She traced the missing treasure to Boston. Scoop looks deeper into the alleged suicide and begins to theorize the culprit faked a death while hoping his trust in Sophie proves right. With her help with interpreting the archaic clues, he begins anew his search for the bomber who tries to kill the woman he is falling in love with.

Following up with the explosive The Mist, The Whisper is a powerful romantic suspense thriller starring two delightful lead protagonists who fell in love at first sight in an ancient Irish ruin. The story line is fast-paced throughout as each uses their detecting skills to search for a diabolical serial killer using ancient rituals to either conceal avarice or for something sinisterly arcane. Readers will enjoy accompanying the lead couple, as they argue, fuss and kiss during their suspenseful investigation.

Harriet Klausner

Sunday, June 6, 2010

The Devil She Knows-Diane Whiteside

The Devil She Knows
Diane Whiteside
Kensington Brava, Jun 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758225177

In 1880 her father puts unbelievable pressure on Portia Townsend to marry into the British aristocracy. Although she loves her Uncle William Donovan’s friend Gareth Lowell whom she met two years earlier in San Francisco following her mom’s death, he apparently does not return her regard. She weds the earl, St. Arles.

Five years of marital abuse ends when St. Arles divorces her based on a false charge of infidelity that a joyful Portia does not challenge. She travels to Constantinople where St. Arles demands she abet him in his efforts to overthrow the Ottoman Empire Sultan if she wants her freedom. Failing her the last time they met, Gareth rescues Portia and insists they marry until he can insure her safety; then they will obtain an annulment. As Portia and Gareth try to prevent St. Arles’ revolutionary scheme from happening, she realizes her beloved loves her, but for some reason carries guilt that makes him believe he is undeserving of her.

The latest nineteenth century Devilish romance (see Southern Devil, Irish Devil, and Northern Devil) is an exciting around the world in several years thriller. The story line is action-packed as Gareth meets his match in feisty Portia. Although St. Arles is so over the top as a villain caricature that even his servants recognize him as such, fans of Diane Whiteside’s Devil historicals will want to travel with the lead couple on their adventures.

Harriet Klausner

Bliss-Opal Carew

Bliss
Opal Carew
St. Martin’s Griffin, Jun 22 2010, $13.99
ISBN: 9780312580148

Sex columnist Kara Spencer believes that making love is a normal physical activity just like going to the bathroom. She is flying to Indianapolis via a stop in Cleveland, but her flight is delayed. Also waiting for the same flights is Tantra master J.M. whose triangular relationship with Hannah and Grey just ended as he went from teacher to third wheel (see Blush). Hannah’s sister Grace is to join him at the Indianapolis sex conference where he is to speak, but she will not be able to fly out until tomorrow. However, when J.M. and Kara notice one another, she feels a deep need for him and he knows she is perfect for him. They share what she assumes will be a one-night stand.

The next day, Kara is stunned to find out her last night’s lover is a keynote speaker at the conference and the person her editor wanted her to interview re Tantra sex. J.M. teaches her Tantra sexuality while hoping she will realize they are a prime pairing of bodies and souls even as he expands her horizon to a much wider range of sexual encounters.

Bliss is a heated erotic romance that returns the Tantra master who trained Hannah and Grey with his prime woman whom he mentors with the full palate of physical and energy orgasms derived from role playing fantasy, triangular encounters and bondage. The story line more than just sex, sex, and more sex (though that seems like 75%) as Kara does not believe love exists ever since her dad left when she was young. Opal Carew has written an enjoyable erotica with just enough of a plot outside of the sexual encounters of the first kind to grip the reader’s libido and more.

Harriet Klausner

Alaska Bride on the Run-Kate Bridges

Alaska Bride on the Run
Kate Bridges
Harlequin, Jul 1 2010, $5.99
ISBN: 9780373295999

In 1899 in Eagle’s Cliff, District of Alaska, Harrison Rowlan prepares to open a neighborhood tavern in which locals can drop by for a pint and a bite. He does not want a bar where patrons drop to the floor either from too much to drink or a brawl. He places an ad for a bartender in the window of his new establishment. Willa Banks wearing a torn wedding gown applies for the position. She persuades Harrison a lady will bring in the type of customer he desires. He hires her on a temporary basis that quickly turns permanent.

An orphan Willa thinks back to her uncle and cousins who took for granted her hard work on the ranch and ignored her plea for some land. She read of opportunity for even women in Alaska and left. In Skagway, she made friends with Keenan Crawford the butcher, but fled when her groom tried to rape her; she muses he can stuff his sausage elsewhere. As Willa and Harrison fall in love, cattle rustlers and Crawford intrude.

This is a strong late nineteenth century Alaska Territory romance that enables the audience to feel they are in the Panhandle region (think of Call of the Wild by London). The lead couple is a caring pair, but it is the towns that have sprung up since the Gold Rush that make for a vivid atmospheric historical. Nobody does 1880s and 1890s Alaska-Canada better than Kate Bridges consistently does as affirmed by returning lead characters (see Alaska Renegade and Wanted in a Alaska)

Harriet Klausner

Saturday, June 5, 2010

The Mailbox-Marybeth Whalen

The Mailbox
Marybeth Whalen
David C. Cook, Jun 2010, $14.99
ISBN: 9780781403696

In 1985, teenager Lindsey Adams left her first letter at the Kindred Spirit mailbox in Sunset Beach, North Carolina. Every year afterward, she would write a letter about what happened to her and loved ones and drop it off at the mailbox.

In 2004, following her husband Grant divorcing her, Lindsey and their two kids (eleven years old Anna and eight years old Jake) return to Sunset Beach to stay in her uncle’s home. She assumes she will be writing her saddest letter since her first love with Campbell Forrester ended heartbrokenly without the long term commitment she desired. However, in Sunset beach, Lindsey and an also divorced Campbell meet and are still attracted to one another and want a second chance at love.

This is a terrific whimsical contemporary romance that uses the real Kindred Spirits mailbox as a focus into the past and present lives of the lead characters. Readers will enjoy the fine tale and take guilty pleasure in reading someone else’s personal letters. The Mailbox is a wonderful quirky tale.

Harriet Klausner

Money, Honey-Susan Sey

Money, Honey
Susan Sey
Berkley, Jul 6 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425235485

Patrick O’Conner blames two feisty females over the end of his previous felonious career as a successful jewel thief. He surrendered six years ago to FBI Agent Elizabeth Brynn to keep his sister Mara out of jail. They cut a deal and he assisted the Fed on her cases for the next three years. Ironically she is also the only woman he has wanted but failed at making their relationship personal.

Patrick, who is now a published author, leaves Palm Springs for Grief Creek, Minnesota because Mara, whom he has not spoken to in three years, says she and her Brightwater’s Casino and Restaurant are in trouble due to counterfeiters. Liz says she has the case under control and he should go back to Los Angeles after she reads the riot act to Mara. Looking forward to the cat fight between the women who turned his life upside down, Patrick accompanies Liz to Mara’s place. As the reformed felon and the Fed work the case together; their desire for one another turns to love. However, she has childhood issues that make commitment impossible and he knows the FBI is her first love.

This is an amusing romantic police procedural starring two likable lead characters who belong together if the her heroine can see passed her childhood demon biases. The investigation is fun due to the squabbling between Liz and Patrick; as each knows the other places them on constant edgy tension by just being near each other. With some late suspense to round out the fun Minnesota thriller, fans will want to read this entertaining investigative romance.

Harriet Klausner

Friday, June 4, 2010

Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico-Lena Nelson Dooley

Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico
Lena Nelson Dooley
Summerside, Jun 2010, $12.99
ISBN: 9781935416746

In 1890 Golden, New Mexico, elderly and ailing former miner Philip Smith explains to his best friend Jeremiah Dennison why he plans to place an ad in the Boston Globe for a mail-order bride. He has money without family and figures someone can nurse him until he dies or recovers while he would be helping a Lady in desperate straits to take such a position. Jerry tries to talk the man he considers his father out of doing this, but fails.

In Boston, Maddy Mercer grieves the death of her father when his former business partner Horace Johnstone informs her they will marry just like her dad wanted. With a responsibility for a newborn while also loathing the avaricious Horace and knowing she and her baby needed to escape a life of hell if married to him; kind hearted Maddy decides on the unknown. She responds to an ad for a mail-order bride placed in the Globe.

Unable to talk Philip out of doing the insanity, Jeremiah plans to persuade the bride to go home. Then he meets Maddy accompanied by baby Pearl and her devoted servants Frank and Sarah Sneed who nurture a dying Philip like he was their father; not understanding her Massachusetts secret toddles between them.

This is a pure golden historical romance starring a courageous caring woman, a wonderful old man, and the male hunk who loves both of them (and Pearl too). The strong lead cast and solid support characters bring alive the mining town in 1890, but it is the relationships that make for a strong Americana tale. Lena Nelson Dooley writes a warm wonderful winner.

Harriet Klausner

Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii-Bodie Thoene

Love Finds You in Lahaina, Hawaii
Bodie Thoene
Summerside, Jun 2010, $12.99
ISBN: 978935416784

UCLA American History graduate student Sandi Smith goes to bed every night for the past four and a half years wondering whether her husband John is dead or a guest of the Viet Cong. The military list John as an MIA and though she prays for him, Sandi knows he probably will never come home and she will never know his fate. As part of the university sponsored history project she flies to Maui to meet with the oldest person on the island Auntie Hannah to discuss with the elderly woman what she recalls about the Kingdom of Hawaii royal family in the late nineteenth century.

Auntie Hannah provides more than just a verbal response to the visiting Californian: she provides insight as she attended school with Princess Kauliana in London; whimsicality remarking her last great cup of tea was in 1897. She gives Sandi journals that focus on the 1890s when her best friend and companion Crown Princess “barbarian princess” Kauliana of the Kingdom of Hawaii tried diligently to return the nation back to a monarchy. As rebellion stirs to become part of the United States, Scottish missionary Andrew arrives on Lahaina leaving the Princess with difficult choices to make; just like Sandi must do on a lesser scale now that she has met Archie.

This is a great historical romance with a strong historiographic spin and a terrific Royal Flush twist. With a strong sense of place and eras (the 1890s and 1973), this character driven by the lead females in the two periods provide the audience with an excellent entry in the Love Finds You series.

Harriet Klausner

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Her Abundant Joy-Lyn Cote

Her Abundant Joy
Lyn Cote
Avon, Jun 1 2010, $12.99
ISBN: 9780061373428

In 1846 Galveston, Texas, German immigrants are stranded because all the freight wagons that work the docks are near the Rio Grande supplying the cavalry in anticipation of war with Mexico over Texas becoming an American territory. Texas Ranger Carson Quinn arrives in town to find chaos as the hundred Germans are clogging the streets with no place to go.

Carson arranges for them to stay one night in an empty warehouse. He offers to lead them with most on foot to the Hill Country land they purchased. Anything they cannot carry is stored in Galveston. Carson warns them of the danger of the trek insisting some will die. He directs anyone fourteen and over regardless of gender to vote. Herr Heller slaps his servant widow Mariel Wolffe informing her she like his wife will vote to go. On the journey Carson and Muriel fall in love, but neither trusts the other gender with their heart; as he was hurt by a woman he cherished and she fled Germany due to the shame of what her late husband did.

The grueling trek across Texas during the beginning of the Mexican War provides a powerful backdrop to the latest Star of Destiny historical romance (see The Desires of Her Heart and her Inheritance Forever). The lead couple is a nice pairing of two intrepid souls who because of their respective last relationship have misgivings about love and the other gender. The support cast, especially the German immigrants; and to a lesser degrees family like Sugar and adversaries such as a poisonous snake (readers will be squeamish with that vivid scene), Santa Ana’s army and the Comanche augment a strong mid nineteenth century tale with a great late twist.

Harriet Klausner

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Dane-Elizabeth Amber

Dane
Elizabeth Amber
Kensington Aphrodisia, Jun 2010, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758241283

In 1880 Rome, the Council orders tracker Dane Satyr to marry a human immediately. He would prefer not to, but understands what the Sickness does to his kind. Thus he puts aside his mission to hunt down illegal demonic immigrants crossing the barrier from ElseWorld; in order to visit the marriage broker who has found human spouses for some of his seemingly happily married peers. Thus Dane plans to hire Eva Delacorte to find him a wife.

Dane and Eva are instantly attracted to one another. However, she has a secret that if revealed could cause death to both of them. As they fall in love while she seeks the ideal mortal for her beloved, he searches for a sex slave mob buying and selling in European high society while enemies plot to use his Achilles’ weakness to destroy his heart and ultimately him.

The latest Lords of Satyr historical romantic fantasy (see Nicholas, Raine, Lyon) moves forward the era from Regency to late Victorian with a refreshing female satyr. Fast-paced as always, the love and passion between the fully developed satyrs may prove lethal to both. Elizabeth Amber provides a wonderful brisk entry that expands her ElseWorld mythos.

Harriet Klausner

The Irish Warrior-Kris Kennedy

The Irish Warrior
Kris Kennedy
Zebra, Jun 1 2010, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420106534

In 1295 in Northern Ireland, the O’Fail King sent his chief advisor warrior Finian O’Melaghlin to meet with the English Lord Rardove to learn what treachery the evil one plots. The fear is that Rardove schemes to use the legendary Wishme dye. Showing his true colors, Rardove imprisons Finian, has him tortured and threatens to kill his men if he fails to provide the dye making manual.

Rardove’s betrothed English merchant Senna de Valery arrives as directed by her future husband. Hoping to escape the bonds of her evil fiancé, she poisons him and frees Finian. They flee together knowing they need one another to survive the wrath of their mutual enemy. As they fall in love, he vows to keep his rescuer safe, but is unaware just who she is and why so many stalk Senna.

The lead couple makes for an exciting action-packed medieval romance in which the Wishme dye formula brings an economic fresh spin to the plot. Fast-paced from the moment the aptly named Senna arrives at Rardove’s encampment, readers will enjoy this exhilarating late thirteenth century historical wondering why men seek to own the heroine.

Harriet Klausner

A Knight's Enchantment-Lindsay Townsend

A Knight's Enchantment
Lindsay Townsend
Zebra, Jun 1 2010, $5.99
ISBN: 9781420106978

In 1210 England, Bishop Thomas holds the father of Joanna of Glastonbury prisoner. If Joanna the alchemist wants to see her dad live, she will create an eternal life elixir. Insulted as a puffer by the Bishop’s cruel men Joanna pans for gold, a necessary ingredient in the elixir she is brewing.

Sir Hugh Manahill learns the Bishop has captured his brother David. He attempts to ransom his sibling, but is not only insulted by the Bishop, he demands relics he accuses David of stealing. The Bishop orders his men to incarcerate Sir Hugh. He flees but hauls Joanna with him hoping she is an exchange chip to free his brother. Instead the pair realizes a mutual loathing of the Bishop who has their respective loved ones held in captivity and a strong attraction to one another. They team up with resolve to free her father and his brother, and send odious Bishop Thomas to the eternal life in hell he deserves.

This superb medieval romance is a very invigorating brisk thriller due to the strong background as the church and state interweave like a DNA helix to the chagrin of those unfortunates caught at the nodal points of abused power. Brother Thomas is as vile a villain one will encounter in a thirteen the century historical like Chaucer’s Pardoner but nastier, he would sell souls if he could. His opposite is the lead couple who are courageous and fortified by their love for each other as they risk their freedom to rescue their confined loved ones.

Harriet Klausner

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Driftwood Lane-Denise Hunter

Driftwood Lane
Denise Hunter
Thomas Nelson, Jul 6 2010, $14.99
ISBN: 9781595548009

In St. Louis, as Meredith Ward inspects a restaurant, attorney Edward Thomas calls her to inform her that her dad T.J. and his second wife Eva died in a boating accident off Nantucket a couple of weeks ago. Estranged from her dad for years, Meredith is stunned to learn the couple named her guardian of their three children. She never even knew she had step-siblings and the only other person capable of caring for them, Eva’s brother Uncle J remains out of contact.

Meredith immediately drops everything to go to the Summer Place Bed and Breakfast on Nantucket to care for her siblings. Her angry thirteen year old sister Noelle wants her to leave. Her brother ten year old Max supports Noelle while seven years old Ben is a bit more welcoming of a big sister whom none of them ever met before, but the trio prefers Uncle J.

Jake Walker finally finds a computer in the Georgia wilderness. He reads his niece’s frantic emails informing him of the deaths and claiming Meredith is control freak crazy; he fears she may have inherited her mom’s illness. He heads to Nantucket where he conceals who he is from Meredith as he plans to prove she is incompetent while posing as a handyman she hires as the B&B needs repair. As they fall in love, his masquerade and her desire for whoever is best for the kids appear to be family breakers.

The fourth Nantucket Love Story (see The Convenient Groom, Surrender Bay and The Seaside Letters) is a strong drama as the quintet struggle to forge a new family dynamic. Each of the five principle players are fully drawn as the adults and kids have different issues and fears. Although the ending feels sweetly abrupt, fans of the series will enjoy this fine family drama as Denise Hunter provides a warm tale.

Harriet Klausner

The Homecoming-JoAnn Ross

The Homecoming
JoAnn Ross
Signet, Jul 6 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780451230676

Former Navy SEAL Sax Douchett survived being wounded and alone presumed dead by his mates as the Taliban assassins went after him in the Hindu Kush region. He survived, but even more harrowing was his few weeks of “incarceration” at Bethesda Naval Hospital. Finally he is allowed to return home to Shelter Bay, physically healed but mentally questionable as he still suffers flashbacks.

While walking with his dog Velcro, the Irish Wolfhound mutt deposits a human bone at his feet. As he thinks of the fickle finger of fate, Widow Sheriff Kara Conway receives the dispatcher’s excited call re his dog finding the bone. Kara is upset as she left the Oceanside PD to raise her eight years old son Trey in a safe environs following the death of his dad her beloved Jared in the line of duty as a cop handling a domestic dispute. As she works the case, someone wants the inquiry ended. At the same time Kara and Sax fall in love; he knows he loved her as a teen and never stopped while she has a list of reasons not to get involved with the middle Douchette sibling starting with Trey though Sax is so good with her son.

The Shelter Bay police procedural romantic suspense stars two likable lead characters and a strong support cast which obviously including Kara’s son; but also SEALs, the memory of Jared, and the townsfolk. The investigative story line is character driven by Kara and Sax who have a myriad of reasons for not getting involved.

Harriet Klausner