Early Book Review: How to Seduce a Scot by Christy English

How to Seduce a Scot is a historical romance by Christy English. It is currently scheduled for release on December 1 2015. Highlander Alexander Waters has a plan, he is in town and dealing with the ton for a season to get his sister married. He has no desire for any romance of his own, he just wants to do right by his sister and get back to his ship. Catherine Middlebrook must find a respectable man to marry or her family will be ruined. Her little sister and less than reliable mother are making the need more pressing, and the need to save her family stronger. She won't allow herself to be distracted by Highland barbarians, regardless of how much her heart and body disagree with her good sense. As the battle of will begins and escalates Catherine and Alex will both be surprised and thrilled with the path they find themselves on.  

How to Seduce a Scot is a romance with entertaining and well fleshed out characters. Every character has a set of problems, even if the readers are not aware of them. i know that must be more to several of the secondary characters and their motives, and am eager to explore the rest of the series in order to figure them out, even if this book does stand up fine on its own. I liked that Catherine is a smart and capable lady, facing hard times with as much honor and fortitude as she can manage. She is trying her best to protect those around her, even when they do not make it easy. Alex and his siblings are charming and unique, and I really want to explore their family more since I found them to be extremely entertaining, even when they are trying to go unnoticed. I enjoyed the twists and turns that everyone faced to find their own happy ending, and look forward to seeing who is next!

How to Seduce a Scot is an engaging read that had me invested in the main characters, as well as the fate of the secondary characters. It is the dynamic characters for the larger cast that will bring me, and most likely other readers, coming back for more again and again. 

Early Book Review: Tremaines True Love by Grace Burrowes

Tremaines True Love is the first book in the True Gentlemen series by Grace Burrowes. This historical romance is currently scheduled for release on August 4th 2015. Tremaine St. Michael is firmly in trade and seeks only to negotiate the sale of some fancy sheep with the Earl of Haddonfield. The earl’s sister, Lady Nita, is pragmatic, hard-working, and selfless, though Tremaine senses she’s also tired of her charitable obligations and envious of her siblings’ marital bliss. Tremaine, having been raised among shepherds, can spot another lonely soul, no matter how easily she fools her own family. Neither Tremaine nor Nita is looking for love, but love comes looking for them.

Tremaines True Love is another winner from Burrowes. Nita is a smart, strong woman that still has a vulnerable heart. She has been healing the people in her village for years, at great risk to herself, because of the incompetence of the actual doctor. She has also been dealing with the scorn of that doctor, the village vicar, and society as well as her families worry and disapproval. Tremaine is a strong and thoughtful man with no plans to marry and some childhood issues to deal with. He sees a kindred soul in Nita, but is reluctant to pursue it, but love in these cases often has a mind of its own, particularly when other people and their problems are close at hand. I really loved that all of the secondary characters had stories of their own, rather than just being lost in the background or stereotypes. It left me satisfied on several levels and looking forward to see the larger story continue and other characters find their own happy endings.

Tremaines True Love is exactly what I expect from Burrowes, and is a must read for her many fans. Her characters, dialogue, and grander story arch capture the imagination and captivate. I am still thinking about the characters, even though i finished it and have read other books since reading the final pages. 

Early Book Review and Giveaway: Jaguar Pride by Terry Spear

Read to the end of the review to enter a giveaway for my paper ARC copy of this book.

Jaguar Pride is the forth book in the Heart of the Jaguar series by Terry Spear. It is currently scheduled for release on February 3 2015. you do not have to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this book, they can each stand on their own. JAG Special Forces operatives like Melissa Overton and her partner, Huntley Anderson, are trained for the most dangerous missions in the harshest environments. They work well together, but try to keep it all business and get the job done as they protect their wild cousins. These jaguar shifters can handle any variable, but what about babies? When Huntley and Melissa find two jaguar shifter cubs snoozing in their jungle hut while on assignment, they have to keep the cubs and each other safe from ruthless poachers, bringing these partners closer in ways they never expected.

This description does not do Jaguar Pride justice. While Melissa and Huntley are jaguar shifters and elite special agents, they have even more complications to their lives than this little window into the story offers. They are both honorable people with intelligence and an affinity to the wild. They each start the story involved in other relationships, which adds a reluctance on both their parts to getting together. Professionalism and the addition to two little jaguar cubs while hunting poachers in the jungle makes things more complicated and potent for both of them.

Jaguar Pride is a solid and entertaining read. The characters are good and there is plenty of action and suspense to keep readers guessing. I think that there is an almost too easy acceptance of the relationship as long term by both Melissa and Huntley by the end of the book, especially considering the complications they encounter. However, since they did know each other for a time before the book picks up I can dismiss it and blame their previous friendship.

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Early Book Review and Giveaways: The Laird by Grace Burrowes

The Laird by Grace Burrowes is the third book in the Captive Hearts series. This historical romance is currently scheduled for release on September 2 2014. While reading the previous books can give you some great insight into a few of the characters, each book in this series can also stand on its own. After years at war Michael Brodie returns to his Highland estate to find that the bride he left behind has become a stranger. Brenna is self-sufficient, competent, confident-and furious about Michael's prolonged absence. Brenna is also hurt, bewildered, and tired of fighting for the respect of those around her. Michael left her when she needed him most, and then stayed away even after the war ended. Nonetheless, the young man who abandoned her has come home a wiser, more patient and honorable husband. But, if she trusts Michael with the truths she's been guarding, he'll have to choose between his wife and everything else he holds dear.

If you have read my previous two reviews of books in this series, The Captive and The Traitor, then you know that I enjoyed The Captive and liked The Traitor even more. Well the trend has continued. I had trouble putting The Laird down on several occasions when I relly needed to do important things like get my kids to camp in the morning or myself to work in the morning or to bed at night.  Michael is a compelling character, and has had me curious through the previous books. He is strong minded and determined, but bares some scars and emotional baggage. He is loyal to a fault, and honest with himself and others. A great hero on several levels, including some inner scars and flaws you do not fully understand until the very end. Brenna is my favorite heroine in the series. She has overcome huge obstacles and still does her best to help everyone regardless of how they feel about her. She is resilient, and honest to herself. The pacing of their romance is just wonderful, no assumption of affection, rather a true romance including wooing. 

I would recommend The Laird to everyone that enjoys historical romance and main characters that come into the story with emotional scars. Readers that have enjoyed other books by Burrowes should label this a must read. It has a true love story and multiple subplots running that all come together beautifully.  

Now for the giveaways! First, the official giveaway from Grace Burrowes and her publisher:

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And for a second chance to win, I also happen to have a full set of paperback galleys of this series at home. Would you like a chance to win them? Well, then enter this giveaway too:

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Book Review: Noble Intentions by Katie MacAlister

Noble Intentions is the first book in the Noble series by Katie MacAlister. Noble Britton, Lord Weston, has come to London intending to revisit old friends, enjoy a modicum of society, and find a mild, biddable wife. Gillian Leigh's Unfortunate Habit of speaking her mind and Shocking Susceptibility to Accidents have left her on the shelf at five-and-twenty but intrigues Noble. When Gillian meets the infamous Black Earl, she knows that she's found a man who can match her zest for life; even if that entails the occasional arson, possibly kidnapping, or encounters with his former mistresses. Life with Gillian involves chaos and laughter but Noble intends to claim her for his own, that is if she doesn't accidentally kill him first.

Noble Intentions might be the first book in this series, but I read it third. I read The Trouble with Harry ages ago and just re-read it along with Noble Destiny. Each of the books can stand on its own, but they also connect in fun ways because of the connected group of people. As a long standing fan of MacAlister I knew that I would find quirky characters, humor, and some fun is this historical romance, and I was not let down. Gillian is a fun but strong character with an unfortunate habit of speaking her thoughts, particularly ones that she means to keep to herself. Noble is a widower with a young son that is looking for a stable, predicable life. Gillian is anything but predictable, and he struggles to change that, urging thought and respectability above all else. That just will not work for Gillian, who quickly takes to motherhood and marriage but is not so good at living the respectable life. It is occasionally odd to have Gillian's habit of speaking her private thoughts refereed to as 'Unfortunate Habit", but the entertainment factor overcomes all of that and quickly.

I highly recommend Noble Intentions to all MacAlister fans, fans of historical fiction, and romance with humor woven throughout. There are misunderstandings, but not because of the main players not talking to each other, but because of how much they care. That makes for a fun and entertaining weekend or even single day reads.

Do not forget to enter my giveaway for the full series!

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Book Review: The Truth about Leo by Katie MacAlister

The Truth about Leo is the forth book in the Noble series by Katie MacAlister, which is set for release today, August 5 2014. Dagmar Marie Sophie is a poverty-stricken Danish princess whose annoying royal cousin is about to have her stuffed away in a convent. When she finds a wounded man unconscious in her garden, she sees a way out of her desperate situation. Leopold Ernst George Mortimer, seventh earl of March, and spy in the service of the king, finds himself on the wrong end of a saber and left for dead. He wakes up not remembering what happened and in the care of a beautiful woman who says she is his wife. Once they get to London Leo sets out to unravel what he's forgotten, with the help of his old friends the eccentric Britton family. Is Dagmar truly the wonderful, irrepressible woman who makes his heart sing, or will she be his destruction?

The Truth About Leo rounds of the Noble series nicely. Dagmar is a nice mix of innocent, smart, and sweet. She trusts a little too easily, but stands up extremely well under pressure and stands up for herself and those she feels are in the right with no hesitation.  Her enthusiasm about just about everything is infectious. Leo is a little slower to trust, but when you have worked as a spy that seems to be a good idea. He seems to be intuitive and fair minded, with a honorable streak a mile wide. The pair make a great match, even with their unusual beginnings. Quirky characters, humor, and some very exciting moments come together just as we expect from MacAlister. I will say that I did see through the mystery or twist woven through the story pretty quickly, but just what the characters go through to get to their conclusions is always interesting. 

I would highly recommend The Truth about Leo to everyone that enjoys historical romance and the signature blend of humor and love found in just about every book from MacAlister. Oh, just read it... and the entire series,. It is a fun story that will make you smile as you turn the pages to see just what might happen next.

Blog Tour Review: The Unicorn Thief by R.R. Russell

The Unicorn Thief  is the second book in the Unicorns of the Mist series by R.R. Russell. I highly recommend reading the first book, Wonder Light, before reading. In this sequel Twig and Ben and working to tame the last unicorn herd on Lonehorn Island while dealing with their personal struggles about identity and family. However, a thief runs rampant in the land of unicorns and now no one is safe, not even Ben's loyal unicorn Indy. When their search leads them to the island’s secret passageway of Terracornus, the land of unicorns, they discover a bold thief at work. It is here that Twig learns the tangled truth about Ben and the evil queen who’s enslaved all of the unicorns. Now all of the captive unicorns are in danger and only Ben and Twig, the last unicorn riders, can save them.

The Unicorn Thief is a wonderful sequel to Wonder Light. The world was not made perfect with one victory for Ben and Twig, and there are still many difficulties ahead of them. Ben is keeping secrets, as are others, and Twig is trying to be the best version of herself while trying to let down any of the people that have come to trust in her. I love the fact that every character is well fleshed out and given both good and bad quality, which makes them much more real than any perfectly pure hero or simply evil big bad. There are equal parts of adventure, mystery, action, and the emotional trials involved of knowing yourself and being a honorable individual. There are lots of secrets to be uncovered, and telling too much might reveal the truth and spoil the surprise. I will admit that I saw one or two of the big twists coming, but the journey was still delightful.

I would very highly recommend The Unicorn Thief to everyone that read and enjoyed Wonder Light. If you like action, adventure, magic, or coming of age stories then this series has something you can get lost inside. I do recommend reading in order, but with the quality of the storytelling, that will be no chore.

Early Book Review: The Raider (Highland Guard, #8) by Monica McCarty

The Raider is the 8th book in the Highland Guard series by Monica McCarty. It is currently scheduled for release on February 25 2014. You do not need to read these books in order, they each do well as stand alones. Robert “Raider” Boyd is one of the most formidable warriors, a patriot and enforcer of Bruce's Guard. However, his well founded hatred of the English drives him but the possibility of vengeance is bittersweet when his enemy’s sister falls into his hands. Attraction and a encounter in the past have Robbie fighting temptation, a battle he badly wants to lose. Lady Rosalin Clifford barely recognizes the rebel prisoner she saved from execution six years ago. Rosalin believes she betrayed her brother when she helped this dangerous man escape in the name of fairness and justice. Now her reckless act seems to have come back to haunt her. But she can’t deny her attraction to the warrior, or deny the passion that turns sworn enemies into lovers. Can they find away to come together, or will vengeance destroy them both?

The Raider delivers exactly what a fan of the Highland Guard series might expect. Rosalin is a smart, caring woman with an independent streak. Robby is a wounded hero with fierce fighting skills, an ax to grind, and some serious moral codes that he struggles to maintain in the search for vengeance. Of course the two are attracted to each other, meet some crazy obstacles along the way, and find a happy ever after despite it all. I like that all of McCarty's characters are strong, intelligent, and strong-willed. Heroes and villains alike are fully formed characters with good and bad sides to their personality. Nothing is black and white, and amid extremely trying times love and hope can be found. I like that nothing (including the main characters) is perfect, and yet somehow things come together amid chaos.

I would recommend The Raider to those that have been following the Highland Guard series, as well as to readers that enjoy powerful characters in a tough setting. I think readers new to the series can fully enjoy the characters and the romance, but readers that have a understanding of the larger story arch and how the Highland Guard work, as well as past history related plot points, will get much more out of the story. The series has started to lose some of its shine, but it is still a fun weekend or winter night read.

Early Book Review: Back to You (A Coming Home Novel) by Jessica Scott

Back to You (A Coming Home Novel) by Jessica Scott scheduled for release as an e-book on January 7, 2014 and in paperback on July 29, 2014. Come back tomorrow for a Pre-Launch post including a giveaway, a Q&A with the author, and an excerpt of the book.

Back to You is the latest book in the Coming Home series, a contemporary romance series that realistically deals with the issues of love and life when at least one party in the relationship is in the military. Army captain Trent Davila loves his wife, Laura, and their two beautiful children. But when he almost lost his life in combat, something inside him died. Now everything is on the line, and Trent has one chance to prove to his wife that he can be the man she needs. Laura is blindsided when Trent returns home. Time and again, he chose his men over his family. But when Trent faces a court martial on false charges, only Laura can save him. What begins as an act of kindness to protect his career inflames a desire she thought long buried-and a love that won't be denied. But can she trust that this time he's back to stay?

Back to You is another fantastic book by Scott that makes me feel what her characters are going through in a very real way. Trent is a man dealing with issues from almost dying in the field and the guilt he feels for those that will never come home. In his effort to protect his family, instead he creates barriers that almost destroy the family. Laura loves her husband and has to deal with making choices for herself and their two young children based on what is best for everyone. She feels abandoned despite knowing Trent is having trouble, mainly because he keeps shutting her own. Despite everything, she trusts that he is innocent of all charges and does what ever she can to help his case, even when it puts her heart in a dangerous position. The characters are all to real, and those of us that have been reading this series from the beginning, have seen bits and pieces of this story as it built, and were so happy to see this book. I love that Scott (a veteran herself) captures the complexity of emotions and trauma of both sides of both being deployed and the return home. Too many books that claim to be military romance focus on specialty units and leave out the realities that our men and women actually have to face. Scott gives readers the real deal, and sometimes that means scenes that are not comfortable to read, but ones that are incredibly real on all levels.

I would highly recommend Back to You to all fans of military or contemporary romance. If you have not read anything by Scott, I highly recommend picking up this entire series, but if you are a crier have the tissues handy. This series is full of real romance complete with trauma, kids, and illnesses and injuries. There is no glossed over danger or manufactured problems here. Read, feel, and fall in love with all of Scott's characters.

Book Review: The Rogue Steals a Bride by Amelia Grey

The Rogue Steals a Bride is the sixth book in the Rogues' Dynasty series by Amelia Grey. This regency historical romance series is most likely best read in order, but this is the only book I have read from the series and think that it could stand well on its own. Matson Brentwood has finally met the woman of his dreams. He is practically obsessed with the red-haired and feisty Sophia Hart, but he knows she is out of his reach because she is ward of the man he is sworn to hate, and she has her own plans for her future. Newly arrived in London, Miss Sophia Hart is new in London and in search for a husband. Her task is made slightly more difficult by the doting but very protective spinster aunts and the promise she made to her father on his deathbed. When Sophia meets Mr. Matson Brentwood, she knows that for the first time, she in danger of losing her heart. But there’s more than just an adversarial guardian and a long list of beaus standing between Sophia and Matson. Sophia promised her dying father she would honor his lifelong plan for her as an heiress and marry a titled gentleman. Matson is not titled so she must deny her love for him and make up to her father for costing him the love of his life.

I had mixed feeling with The Rogue Steals a Bride. For the most part i really like Sophia, she was smart and very independent with a mind of her own. She is loyal and caring, sometimes to her own detriment. However, I think the premise of the promise to marry into a title is carried to far, because a woman with that much integrity would not walk done the paths that she often chose, at least in my opinion. It irked me after a bit, not enough for me to dislike the character or the book, but enough to distract me. I did love the character of Matson. He is aware of his faults, does everything in his power to be a good, honorable man, and is thoughtful. The additional side characters were also well done, I particularly liked the side story with Sopha's aunts Mae and June as well as Sir Randolph. There was some very witty dialogue and humor that made me very happy. AS I said, my only issue was that the only true obstacles between the Sophia and Matson would have been easily resolved if not for stubbornness.

I enjoyed The Rogue Steals a Bride, but not enough for me to go back and find the other five books in the series. I would recommend the book to fans of the author and to those that enjoy regency romance over other historicals.

Book Review: Highland Master by Hannah Howell

Highland Master is the 19th book in the Murray Family series by Hannah Howell. This historical romance series can be read as stand-alones or as a large series of stories about related characters. Lady Triona McKee's life is under siege. Her marriage did not give her the love or support she had hoped for. Now she is a widow, mother, and laird trying to hold her people together an neighboring laird is trying to force her into marriage by sabotaging the crops and welfare of those she cares about. Then her cousin and her guard appear at the gates, and Triona is faced with hope, and more than a little temptation. Sir Brett Murray is among the guard, and wants Triona from the moment he sees her. But he notices that all is not well in the keep, and vows to stay until the troubles are settled. Can Brett and Triona avoid losing their hearts while enjoying the passion they share, and will the plots surround the keep be resolved without bloodshed.

Highland Master is another entertaining read from Howell. The characters are all well defined, with the strong women that I find make historical much more fun and interesting. Triona has been through hard times, but never blames other people of whines about it. She just does what needs to be done and depends on her heart and intelligent to get her through. Brett has his own troubled past and seems to dwell on his own guilt and misfortune much more than Triona- but not so much that it becomes annoying. I really like that while Triona really needs help to solve the problems she faces, it is not because she is unable to unwilling to take care of things herself. Even when assistance is there she is not diminished because of accepting the help, instead she just takes care of business and does everything she can to take care of her home.  As Howell fans might expect, the secondary characters and those from past books in the series are also well fleshed out and make readers eager to explore the previous books in the series, as well as any that might crop up in the future, just to discover more about them. The conflict and crisis surrounding Triona and her home are interesting and carry enough suspense and madness to keep readers guessing. What more could you want?

I would recommend Highland Master to all fans of Howell and of historical romances set in Scotland, with strong female charters, and that are simply fun to read.This might not have been my favorite of Howell's, but I was still a great read.

Early Book Review: Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper

Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper is a paranormal, historical romance which is currently schedule for release by Sourcebooks on December 3 2013 (however it was originally published in January of 2013). Mina Seymour is a smart independent woman in 1894 London. Despite coming from meager beginnings she has become the secretary for a famous scholar. When her concern for her employer brings to to an acquaintances door she had no idea that she was about to encounter much more than a Scottish gentleman. Stephen MacAlasdair is the heir of a prestigious but secretive family. When an old enemy brings trouble to his door he strives to protect those around him, including Mina's employee with who he had worked with in the past. Circumstances make Stephan and Mina allies as they try to thwart a dangerous enemy. Mina discovers a world she never new existed, and Stephen opening up and sharing secrets that he never planed on sharing. Can the unlikely pair defeat the enemy, and can they find a way to make their attraction kindle into something much stronger?

Legend of the Highland Dragon is a book that shook me out of a reading slump. Sometimes I try to read so much, so fast, in order to keep this blog regularly updated that I stop ENJOYING the reading- which is a crime! This book brought me back from that place and had me turning pages and looking forward to reading more. Stephen was a great  alpha male. The elemental nature of his dragon combined with his powerful but thoughtful man aspect made him very appealing. I liked that Mina was a strong, hardworking woman. While not ashamed for her past, she worked to remover her accent in order to move forward and earn a honest wage. However, she has no animosity towards those unable to break the cycle of poverty and still spends significant time and thought for her family. I really liked the strength that Mina displayed throughout the story.

I highly recommend Legend of the Highland Dragon and think it was a a great take on dragons and the historical period. I liked the melding of historical and paranormal, and the strong female characters. Readers that particularly enjoy strong female characters, historical romance, and paranormal romance will all find something here to make them smile.  I hope that the story continues, and we get to see Stephen's brother find love as well. I have hope that Cooper will not disappoint me there. I really enjoyed the writing style and will be checking out her previous books as soon as I get a chance.

Book Review: Geek Girls Don't Date Dukes by Gina Lamm

Geek Girls Don't Date Dukes is the second book in the Geek Girls romance series by Gina Lamm. Leah Ramsey has always loved historical romance novels and dressing in period costumes, in fact she works at a local renascence fair while on summer vacation from teaching. When Leah has the chance to time travel and experience the history for herself, she jumps at it. Her best friend Jamie had done it and found her true love, so it could not be too hard. Unfortunate, the first person she sees is not the duke, but his valet. Avery Russell, valet and prize pugilist, reluctantly helps Leah gain a position in the Duke of Granville's household as a maid. Emptying chamber pots and cleaning was not quite what she imagined, but she's determined to win her happily ever after, even if the hero isn't exactly who she's expecting.

Geek Girls Don't Date Dukes is a solid follow up to The Geek Girl and the Scandalous Earl, in which Leah's best friend Jamie enters the past through a mirror. Leah uses the same mirror with the hopes of having the same luck as her now newlywed best friend. I liked Leah's character, while she is depressed with the fact that her best friend is off and growing apart from her because of her experiences and new marriage, she is also happy for her friend and maintains her spunk. There is a great interaction between Leah and her ex boyfriend in the beginning of the book that really gives the reader a good glimpse at her personality. Leah is a nice girl with a good heart, be she will not be taken advantage of and is not afraid to speak her mind. I loved her honest and spunk, particularly as she had to learn to self-censor while in the past to blend in. Avery is another great character, he is not just a valet. He is a boxer that does everything in his power to care for his ailing aunt. He is blackmailed and looked down on, be he continues doing the right thing (or as close as he can get in his personal circumstances). The side story about the duke and some of the characters that readers of The Geek Girl and the Scandalous Earl will recognize, are entertaining and a nice additional layer to the story.

Geek Girls Don't Date Dukes is a fun and enjoyable read. I love the combination of contemporary romance with historical and a little magic to make it all possible. If you have read The Geek Girl and the Scandalous Earl you will get a bit more out of the story, but newcomers to the series will not be lost or miss too much of the larger story. If you like romance that concentrates on the characters figuring out what they want rather than just falling into bed, then this is the book for you. I will definitely be taking a look at the next book in the series, The Geek Girl and the Reluctant Rake, when it comes out in 2014 for some more fun romance reading.

Early Book Review: Born Wild by Julie Ann Walker

Born Wild is the fifth romance in the Black Knights Inc. series by Julie Ann Walker. It is schedule for release on November 5 2013. Eve Edens is one of the few people privileged enough to know the truth about just who what Black Knights Inc really do, partly because she played helped out in a previous adventure. However, you do not have to have read the previous books to enjoy this installment. Eve in very wealthy, with an overbearing father, press that hounds her every move, and is a hairs breath away from her doctorate degree. Unfortunately, she has had some serous accidents lately, and she is sure that someone is out to kill her. The only place she feels like she can turn holds its own dangers. William 'Wild Bill' Reichert was her first love, and the man she betrayed by dating, and marrying, another man while he was away. He is also a member of the Black Knights and the big brother of her best friend Becky. Together they need to find out who is behind all of Eve's bad luck, unfortunately the answer is likely closer that anyone wants to consider. When all is said and done will they give romance a second chance?

Born Wild is a suspenseful romance full of action and mystery. It also has some lengthy sex scenes and some little things that started to irk me by the end of the book, but lets talk about the good first. Bill is a strong, solid character. He is the epitome of the stoic alpha male with the heart of gold, a boy scout with strong, capable hands. He is a wonderful character that tried to do the right thing even when he feels like the person he is helping might not deserve it. His only weakness is Eve, and his long standing love and desire for her. Eve has been sheltered and had her father calling the shots for most of her life, mainly because she does not have the heart to tell him no. But, she has done a lot to better herself (defensive driving, learning to shoot, martial arts, etc) and become stronger physically and emotionally. However, all that work might go to waste if she does not find out who is out to kill her. Eve has a balance of looking innocent and weak, while being steady and strong under the surface. The tension between the pair, and the set up for the next book with another couple were done very well. As was the level of action and suspense, though I will admit tat I figured out the bad guy about halfway through the book, even though I was not completely sure on how the motives matched them until the very end.

One of the things that did get on my nerves while reading was Eve's constant pep talks to herself about 'lady balls'. Come on, I am all for a woman being strong, but why would a woman that can not even swear when her life is one the line use that kind of terminology so often during her inner dialogue? Again, she uses crass words with Bill, I think more in an attempt to shock him or herself. I have no issues with characters swearing or using crass language IF it fits their personality, and I do not think it really fit in this case. My other moment of upset can with the sex scenes. Again, I am all for some hot and steamy moments and look forward to them when well done. However, I think that this series is falling into the trap than many romance series fall into, the loss or suspense and plot for the sake of sex. Any time the main characters ignore common sense and danger and have marathon sex sessions I feel a little let down. I expect more from Walker, and feel like this series is falling into that downward spiral- though I hope it redeems itself in the next story.

I would recommend Born Wild to fans of Walker and the Black Knights series. However, if you are a reader that gets easily annoyed at either of the issues I mentioned above, you might want to pass for now. I will give Walker another chance, because she usually makes me happy, and I will let you if the series will stay on my reading list or fall away.

Early Picturebook Review and Giveaway: Don't Push the Button! by Bill Cotter

For a chance to win Don't Push the Button! by Bill Cotter please see the details at the end of this post.

Don't Push the Button! by Bill Cotter is an interactive picturebook schedule for release on November 1 2013. Larry is a monster, and he has only one rule; that no one press the button in the book. However, curiosity becomes too much for Larry and he urges the reader to press said button when no one is looking. Pressing the button has some unexpected consequences, which leads to more button pressing, book shacking, and all sorts of fun.

Don't Push the Button! has delightful illustrations and a fun premise. who does not want to press a button, particularly after being told not to? the very visible results lead to lots of interactive fun for the reader. i think a one on one reading session with an adults and young child or an older child reading to a younger would will bring the most enjoyment out of the story. It reminded me of the joy I always for in There's a Monster at the End of the Book, where the main character directly interacts with the reader in a fun way. Even though the button is just a picture rather than an actual, press-able button, I think children will have fun pressing the button and seeing the result on the following page.

I would recommend Don't Push the Button! to picturebook fans, particularly those that enjoy monsters and interactive tales. I think it could be a good discussion starter about consequences or for guessing just what might happen next. I think everyone can find some fun and enjoyment in this picturebook and plan on giving it as a gift this holiday season to at least one young child.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Artist and musician Bill Cotter had the perfect focus group while writing his first picture book: the students at the Church Street school of Music and Art in New York, a nonprofit organization where he teaches.  The kids were introduced to Larry in all his many guises and his many different experiences before he became the cuddly critter and hero of Don't Push the Button!

Bill Cotter studied Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA).  Bill now lives in New York City and teaches art and music to children of all ages. When he isn't drawing pictures, Bill loves to play the piano, paint murals, and pop bubble wrap.Bill's work has been in various publications, including Rolling Stone.

If you would like to win your own copy of this awesome picture book simply comment on this post and share your favorite picturebook with me and your fellow readers. A winner will be chosen at random on October 31 and notified. Unfortunately, since the publisher will be shipping to the winner directly, the contest is only open to residents of the United States and Canada. 

Book Review: To Wed a Wicked Highlander by Victoria Roberts

To Wed a Wicked Highlander is the third book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands by Victoria Roberts. Each of the historical romances can stand alone, the main players in the previous books are only secondary characters in this installment. Laird Alexander MacDonnell is not opposed to marrying his enemy's daughter in the efforts to procure peace, especially since she is attractive and intelligent. He wants peace for his clan, and in his home. Lady Sybella MacKenzie is a little less enthusiastic about marriage, since she knows her father has arranged the match only so she can search for her clan's ancient seeing stone. However, as the days go on she has less interest in the search and more for her husband. When she finds the precious artifact, will she choose the family who raised her and used her, or will she stand with the man who has captured her heart?

To Wed a Wicked Highlander was my favorite of this series thus far. Alexander is a highland with a high code of ethics, treats others with respect, and values honesty. I really liked his character and thought his intelligence and compassion made him a perfect hero in the story. Sybella is an independent heroine that often faces criticism from her family for her outspokenness and less than 'lady-like' manners. She does not like the plotting by her father, and hopes to minimize the damage done, but things escalate well beyond her control quickly. I really loved the development of the relationship between this pair, and was treated to a few laughs along the way.

I highly recommend To Wed a Wicked Highlander to readers that love a historical romance that has romance because of the characters rather than those that just fall into bed because they cannot seem to help themselves. The characters are solid and I look forward to seeing what might happen next in the series. The first book in the series was Temptation in a Kilt and the second was X Marks the Scot. Each seems to be better than the last, I hope to see a number four in the series and fully expect to be wowed by it if this trend continues.

Book Review: Dead Sexy Dragon by Lolita Lopez

Dead Sexy Dragon is the paranormal romance novel by Lolita Lopez that begins her new  Dragon Heat series. It is a novella length novel that could be considered erotica. Stig Wyvern is a dragon shifter entering his mating phase, a dangerous time under normal conditions.When his dead friend’s kid sister Cora Cardenas shows up on his doorstep things can only get worse. Stig has lusted after her for years, and she shares his desire. Sharing an isolated house when he can barely control himself, or his shifting, is a recipe for disaster. But Cora has nowhere else to go, she is in serious trouble with some really nasty people and Stig is the only one who can protect her. It is not long before Cora notices that Stig is hiding something from her, and she intends to figure it out.

Dead Sexy Dragon is short, around 25000 words, and I really did not expect a great deal of characterization of plot. Thankfully, Stig had a good back story and changed as the plot moved onward, so was a three dimension character and well formed. Cora was lacking a bit in the back story department, but like Stig does grow and change through the story. There is plenty of sex, and for the most part that is very well done. There is not a whole lot of 'romance', mainly because of Stig's hormone issues and the fact that they pair have wanted to get together since they have known each other and just never crossed that line. I will admit that there was a few times when Cora's words for her body, and Stig's ability to whisper in Cora's ear at moment I thought to be physically impossible distracted me- but for the most part I was satisfied with the story. Being the first book in the series, there is a primer of background information about the dragon history and the Knights trying to kill them all, which of course plays into this story, providing some danger and action along the way. We also get to met some of the dragons that expect to have their own stories in the books to follow.

I would recommend Dead Sexy Dragon to readers that what a quick, hot read. It was not a really stand out in erotica or romance for me, but does offer a satisfying read. The second book in the series, Red Hot Dragon, is scheduled for release on October 1st 2013. I will probably be reading that volume as well, because I did like the set up about the dragon species and have hopes that the series will get even better.

Book Review: Bad Nights by Rebecca York

Bad Nights by Rebecca York is a contemporary suspense romance. Morgan Rains is a psychology professor that is just going through the motions of life since the loss of her husband. While alone in a cabin she is contemplating selling she hears a strange noise outside, only to discover a stranger that happens to be wounded and naked in her backyard. Private operative and former Navy SEAL Jack Brandt has escaped torture after an assignment goes wrong. Morgan drags him into her cabin and does what she can to treat his wounds, only to discover that an act of kindness brings the people Jack has escaped from to her front door. Together they run and fight for survival and discover the danger is even larger than they expected.  Jack and Morgan are finding in each other a reason to live, if they can survive.

Bad Nights is a suspense romance that offers plenty of action and tight spots to keep readers on the edge of their seats. However, I was sad that I could not connect more with the characters. Morgan is a widow, still going through the grieving process, and just happens to be a psychologist that is too afraid to practice and teaches instead. She is just going through the motions of life, and it seems like even after she 'falls in love' with Jack she is still not really completely invested in life.  Jack is a better done, but I still do not fully connect with him, he is suffering for survivors guilt and just seems incomplete. The action was great, but readers that really enjoy character driven stories (like myself) rather than stories where they just seem reactive, might find themselves disappointed. I have liked many of York's past books, and I think that is more where my disappointment lies- because I have seen her do so much better than this.

Bad Nights is a book I would recommend to fans of the high action romance, rather than those that prefer to fully connect with the characters. High action, a bad guy with some serious issues, and wounded souls falling for each other might make many readers happy. I was not a bad book, but not up to that standards I have for the author.

Book Review: Paradise Valley by Rosanne Bittner

Paradise Valley by Rosanne Bittner is a historical romance set in America. Maggie Tucker has had a hard life, made even harder when three men attack. They shoot her husband and brutally attack her. She is now lost and alone in the Wyoming Territory. She vows to find the men who killed him and who tried to destroy her. Sage Lightfoot is a former outlaw and current owner of a ranch called Paradise Valley. On his search for three men who murdered his best ranch hand, he finds Maggie collapsed beside an open grave and offers her his help. Together they set off on a journey along the Outlaw Trail in search of justice, and they just find trust and love as well. However, Maggie's secret and a woman from Sage's past could destroy their future before they even have a chance to get started.

Paradise Valley is a well paced historical novel, with plenty of action and conflict. Maggie Tucker is a wounded heroine. Her childhood was terrible, her marriage not much better, she witnesses the murder of her husband, and is then raped and left for dead. Not exactly a woman looking for love. Sage Lightfoot had a childhood that was not much better than Maggie's, but he has face betrayal from the people he should have been safest with and is not exactly looking to fall in love or even lust with anyone soon. With all that said, I did find the tension and conflict in the romance well done. However, I did find that Maggie was a little too willing to hop in the sack after the trauma she had been through. No flashbacks or PTSD symptoms- just "ohh, I did not know it could feel like this" sentiments. But, whatever. The two additional conflicts felt a little like they were added on last minute for added effect- because kidnapping and fighting with a slew of outlaws were not dramatic enough. They were well utilized plot points, but I do not think that they were absolutely necessary. I did not really connect with either Maggie or Sage, but did enjoy getting to know some of the secondary characters. I also liked the ideals in the book, that everyone has some good and bad in them and sometimes the 'bad' is because of circumstance rather than desire. The basic acceptance of others was a nice thing to see.

Paradise Valley is a historical romance full of action, drama, and danger. It is not the best of the genre, but it is a solid read and far from being bad. I think readers that enjoy reading about characters that have trauma and obstacles from their past to overcome, trust issues, and daily danger to deal with will greatly enjoy this book.