Love Immortal by Brita Adams

Story: 8

Presentation: 9

Total: 17
Publisher: Silver Publishing
m/m paranormal
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Blurb: Born in 1620, Laurent Kinsdale, an orphan at ten and a vampire at twenty five, goes against all his sire has taught him, when, on an impulse, he turns his lover, Graham Symonds. Graham does not take the turning well, his anger towards the man he's loved for four years knows no bounds. After he commits unconscionable acts directed at destroying Laurent, he disappears for a century and a half.

In 1820, Laurent meets Sebastian FitzHugh. The two men have common sexual interests, each other, despite the fact that Sebastian doesn't know about Laurent's vampirism. Their lives are disrupted by the re-emergence of Graham, who insinuates himself in the middle of their idyll and forces Laurent to make a gut-wrenching decision that could tear his and Sebastian's world apart. Does he care for Sebastian enough to let him go or will he repeat the mistakes of his past?

Review: The historical feel of this story is perfection. The tone, sights, sounds and dialog all contributed to taking me back in time. There is nothing lacking in the sex and actions. The story grips and holds you and the characters become real as you read. It’s entertaining and certainly on par with Ms. Adams other works. What’s nice is when there is danger and action, I was reading as fast as my eyes could track across my ereader screen. And then the story was building between Laurent and Sebastian, I was tumbling into love with them. I especially loved the BDSM elements, leaning more toward the S&M. So lovers of m/m sex with bdsm elements are going to be pleased with this emotionally charged story. My only gripe was in the vampire elements. I wanted more of what it is like to be the vampire. I didn’t get much of the “bloodlust.” And for vampire lovers, it’s all about the bite. For me, this part didn’t deliver. But that is the only complaint in an otherwise fantastic read. This is excellent, solid storytelling. A book you can’t put down.

Cowboy Love on Hold by Luxie Ryder

Story: 8.5

Presentation: 9

Total: 17.5
Erotic Contemporary Menage
Publisher: Siren Publishing
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Blurb: When retired Special Op Brandon Reed comes back to Chelwood, he doesn't expect to find his high school buddy Wade Gardener still living in town with the woman Brandon used to date, Kimber Williams. It hurts him to see that they have taken back their love for him and given it to each other.

Kimber doesn't know why Brandon deserted her as a teenager, and although madly in love with Wade, she has never gotten over Brandon. But Wade has his own issues to deal with. He knows the real reason why Brandon left town so suddenly, but he's never confessed his true feelings for Brandon to the woman he adores, or even to himself.

Just as Brandon begins to fear there is no room in their hearts for him, the past comes back to haunt him, and he is thrown into a desperate struggle to save their lives.

Review: Okay, let’s get the suspense aspects of the story out of the way first. Oh my gosh, it was fun, exciting, entertaining. Twists and turns, suspenseful situations…that didn’t take over the story. Yay! If you want suspense action as a backdrop to an engaging love story, this book is for you. I can say, it is just the kind of story I love. The characters are memorable, and the development of their love wasn’t rushed with rapid sex scenes that don’t contribute to the plot. Ms. Ryder, you’re good. You’re very good at marrying hot sex with wicked good storytelling. As much as I loved the angsty love between Brandon and Wade, I loved how you made Kimber vital to the relationship. She wasn’t left out, even when she wasn’t with them. The story doesn’t drag, great characters, emotional-tummy-tugging sex scenes. This is a great story and a great start to a series I intend to follow.

Begging For It by Miranda Forbes

Story: 7
Presentation: 8
Total: 15
Publisher: Xcite
Erotica
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Blurb: A collection of five erotic stories with mixed and varied themes.

'Begging for It' by Emily Dubberley

When she meets Jake in a Japanese language class he wants to take advantage of her, but he has unwittingly met his match. She invites him home and changes into her Domme gear. He is aroused and curious, and when she binds him and orders him to use his mouth to pleasure her, he obeys eagerly. After he brings her to climax, will she return the favour? Not so fast. Any reward he gets from her has to be earned.

'The Fitting Room' by Roger Frank Selby

Laetitia, a lingerie saleslady, wonders if her last boyfriend was right when he called her "frigid." Then Mr. and Mrs. Brown come into the shop to find something special for the Mrs. to wear. Laetitia lets the older woman try on her own custom-made bra, and it fits perfectly. Mr. Brown enjoys the sight of Laetitia's firm young breasts, and before long, Laetitia and the Browns are the best of friends. Unfortunately, Laetitia's supervisor returns just in time to be appalled. How will Laetitia find her new friends when she is without a job and they have been barred from the shop? Where there's a will, there's a way.

'My Immortal' by Sally Quilford

Vicky is a young widow who can't stop grieving for her husband James, who died too soon. Spending Christmas in the cottage in Derbyshire where she and James had so much pleasure, she feels a familiar touch and encourages her unseen lover to keep going. Vicky learns that the touching only happens occasionally. On the train home, she meets a warm, sensuous man who is very willing to give her what she needs. Vicky is not ready to form a new relationship, but she knows that she needs to rejoin the living.

'Ladies" Circle' by Kaycie Wolfe

Kate would love to fit in with her new neighbours, the chic ladies of Eden Court Village. Then she discovers her husband Stephen's affair with another woman. How dare he? She gives him a choice: he may leave at once, or submit to her in every way for one month to win back her trust. Kate loves showing off her nearly-naked man-servant to her women friends, and they love watching him perform on command.

'Lorelei's Day of Play' by Chloe Devlin

Lorelei is left alone too often when her husband Charles leaves town on business. Just as she is about to meet the realtor about buying a new house, her neighbours Gina and Martin come over to offer her a bit of distraction! Both of them show Lorelei some exciting activites she has never tried before. And best of all, they plan to help her welcome Charles home.

Review: Begging for it- A steamy little Domme story that really worked well. Hot and nasty, dirty and sexy all at the same time.

The Fitting Room: I just didn’t get it at first. I found parts of this little tale strange and confusing. I understand what the author was doing with this tale but I think the main plot would have worked a bit better is the story hadn’t been so broken up with POV changes and time changes. I stumbled in a few places but overall it was good. Nice a hot in the right places.

My Immortal: Maybe not as erotic and detailed as I would have liked but a good tale that was easy to follow.

Ladies’ Circle: A woman who takes hold of her inner Domme toward a husband who has strayed. Really more of a tale than an erotica but it was good. I could have done with some more titillation and description but all in all it was a well done story.

Lorelei’s Day of Play: HOT, Kinky…Yeah baby! Without a doubt IMHO the best story in the collection. Dirty, detailed and fast paced. Filled to the brim with naughty sex and worth every minute J

Work It by Marilyn Campbell

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Contemporary Erotic
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Blurb: Prequel to the Crystal Island Series

Cory knows she has an amazing boss. Jeff is considerate, generous and a true pleasure to work for. Unfortunately, he’s also the sexiest man she’s ever known, and being so close to him every day without being able to touch has turned into pure torture.

Jeff believes Cory is the ideal assistant, always willing to accommodate. For some time he’s been fantasizing about personal things he wishes Cory would do for him. Letting her know that, however, has been out of the question…until she turns in her resignation and admits it’s because she wants something more from him. The instant they realize they want the same thing, they don’t waste another second before acting out their office fantasies.

Review: Just in case you didn’t already know…I am a huge friends to lovers fan. A die hard maybe. And this story really fit the bill.

Two people who work together well and have for several years. Both wanting but never taking that chance. Ahhh. It was good.  Hot sex coupled with a quick to the point story that was well written…what’s not to like?

Among the Living by Jordan Castillo Price

Story: 9

Presentation: 8

Total: 17
Publisher: JCP Books LLC
m/m paranormal
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Blurb: PsyCop #1 - Victor Bayne, the psychic half a PsyCop team, is a gay medium who’s more concerned with flying under the radar than in making waves.

He hooks up with handsome Jacob Marks, a non-psychic (or “Stiff”) at his ex-partner’s retirement party and it seems like his dubious luck has taken a turn for the better. But then a serial killer surfaces who's not leaving any spirits behind.

Review: You will love this book from the first words. Witty, edgy, different, and completely consuming. However, I don’t think this book can be truly understood on the first read through. There is so much going on and the story is wrought with tension both sexual and just pure adrenaline junkie excitement, that you can barely catch your breath while reading. Vic is so full of flaws and such a wonderful character. This is a story to read when you want sexy but not a constant stream of one sex scene to the next. This is a thrilling, action packed roller coaster ride of a story that only escalates in intensity as you read. The ending is so freakin fantastic that all I can say is thank you to Jordan for giving me a highly entertaining read.

The Vampire Who Loved Me by Theresa Meyers

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: Harlequin
Paranormal Romance
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Blurb: Dr. Rebecca Chamberlin hated nothing more than the vampires who had turned her loved ones into creatures of the night…until she became one herself. Now her experimental vaccine has become more urgent than ever, and has made her the target of vampire security chief Achilles Stefanos.

Built like a god with golden hair and an irresistible allure, Achilles made her feel passion the way no mortal man had before. Beck could no more deny her craving for him than she could the hated bloodlust in her veins. But when her vaccine fell into the wrong hands, Beck had a difficult choice to make—one that challenged everything she'd always believed….
Review: FANTASTIC!!! In true Theresa Meyers fashion, this paranormal knocked my socks off :)

I have read other works by Ms Meyers and have been drawn to her from the get go. The snap and splash that she brings to her stories really make the characters and plot POP. It's really a symphony for the eyes and imagination.

Strong characters that are so "alive" and the plot so gripping that I found it nearly impossible to put down. I am on pins and needles with anticipation for the next in this awesome series :)

Four Days With Jack by Kelli A Wilkins

Story: 7.5

Presentation: 8

Total: 15.5
Publisher: Amber Allure
Gay Erotic Contemporary
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Blurb: When David invited his best friend along on vacation, he never expected them to fall in love...

Spending four days in a tropical paradise with Jack is a dream come true. For years, David lived a lie and denied his attraction to Jack. Now that they’re together in an isolated Caribbean resort, however, he finally sheds his denial and admits what he really wants—to be Jack’s lover.

Jack is more than willing to introduce David to the life he has always fantasized about. Their sizzling nighttime encounters confirm David’s long-hidden desires. But what will happen when they leave the resort? Will David sacrifice everything to start a new life with Jack? Or will he go back to his old ways and risk losing the best friend he ever had?

Review: Four Days With Jack was exactly as promised. Hesitation, longings, risks, fears, and in the end, taking love the way it comes. The sex is hot, the characters likeable and the writing was easy to read. There weren’t any surprises and that was good for me. The peaks and valleys of the story come from David and Jack coming to terms with their relationship. Their secrets are exposed but those secrets and actions come with consequences. I didn’t love the “dark moment” talked about in books. That pivotal place where the main characters are tested and redeemed for love. Jack had been a good guy throughout the book. He wants David so badly, but he doesn’t pressure—until he’s tested by David’s insecurities and fear. However, in the end David grabs and holds on to a good thing. Their journey is a pleasant read and one I’m sure you’ll enjoy as well.

Breakaway by Kelly Jamieson

Story: 7

Presentation: 6

Total: 13
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Contemporary erotic romance
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Blurb: Jason and Remi want the same thing—no-strings-attached, screw-their-brains-out, burn-the-sheets-up fun. Pro hockey player Jason just broke up with his girlfriend because she got too serious. Schoolteacher Remi just saw the last of the younger siblings she raised leave the nest. Jace isn’t ready for responsibility. Remi’s had enough responsibility. They’re perfect playmates.

But fun and sexy games get complicated when emotions get involved. Then responsibility and commitment crash the party when Jason’s past comes back to haunt him. Like it or not, Jason and Remi both have to figure out what they really want.

Review: I have to score this book in two parts. And the presentation score (scoring the publisher is lower for reasons I’ll explain. The cover is hot so that’s not it.) I love Ms. Jamieson’s writing style and can read anything she writes. And for the most part, I loved the romance in Breakaway, with all the hesitations and situations between Jason and Remi. I suspect Jason’s issues and fears are the same for many men in that situation (don’t want to give any spoilers) and while he struggles initially, he man’s up to his responsibilities by the end of the story and for that I was satisfied as a reader. Remi didn’t come together as well for me. I think she made amazing sacrifices for her family. But I lost some of my love for her with the situations with her brother and sister. I think the way Ms. Jamieson wrote the scene was very believable. I hated the way Remi handled her siblings when they were being unreasonable irresponsible brats and I didn’t cheer for her as a character the way I would want to. If by the end of the story, she had come around and stood up to them, I would have cheered. I don’t think she does. I still found the book to be an enjoyable read and a book I didn’t want to put down.

Now for my issues with BREAKAWAY and why the score on the publisher is lower, because I did like the story. But if you’re going to name drop actual teams, they should be accurate. As a hockey lover, I had to scratch my head. I don’t know if it’s oversight or intentional, but the Wolves are an AHL team. The Blackhawks are the NHL team in Chicago. The Stars play in Dallas, not Phoenix. If you’re in Phoenix, you’ll want to cheer for the Coyotes. Maybe for those who don’t follow hockey won’t care. But it was like reading road bumps along the way for me and I stumbled over them every time.

Apples and Regret and Wasted Time by Cornelia Grey

Story: 8.5

Presentation: 9

Total: 17.5

Publisher: Storm Moon Press

Contemporary M/M Erotic Romance

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Blurb: He lives in the shadows of the law. Now, wounded and stranded in the city after a job only he could do, he has no qualms about climbing through the window his old lover left open—or stealing his shampoo, at that. He has, however, not taken into account the possibility of being surprised in the shower.

Three years is a long time to go between visits, especially if you've left so much anger and hurt and desire unresolved. They try to negotiate a truce for one night—over Chinese takeaway leftovers and apples, and between the sheets.

Please note: This story does not contain a Happily Ever After (HEA) ending. The ending is bittersweet, which may not be the preference for some reviewers.

Review: At first I didn’t understand how the title was going to come into play. It was part of the charm of this otherwise haunting story. It’s intimate and it’s sexy in a dark foreboding way. It’s super short and so difficult to give too many details without spoiling the story for you. There are parts that left me a little confused, but the part that mattered, (I don’t think I ever knew their names. It’s first person so it’s either he or I in the telling of the story. It’s what made the story eerie and dark. Dangerous yet sexy. The mysteriousness of it all really worked) the encounter between the two characters was intimate and personal and I enjoyed reading this short story.

Betrothed to the Enemy by H C Brown

Story: 9.5
Presentation: 8.5
Total: 18
Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing
Historical Erotic
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Blurb: After her father’s death at the Battle of Hastings, Lady Angela of Parr is defenseless. Dragged from her estate and taken to London, she finds herself at the mercy of a ruthless Norman king.

William, the new king of England, plans to repay his loyal knights by offering them marriage to the landed Saxon ladies. Angela has no love for the Normans, but when she meets Sir Damien de Anesi she is instantly smitten and puts her reputation in jeopardy by secretly meeting with the handsome young Norman knight.

Their love blossoms until King William betroths Angela to a depraved old man and Sir Damien is forced to choose between his loyalty to his liege and his love for Lady Angela.

Review: Ms. Brown does an amazing job of capturing the reader and drawing her into the story. The characters are well-developed as is the plot. Little details enrich the story and lend authenticity to the setting. The love scenes are nicely done. Who knew knights and maidens could be so creative and naughty?

My favorite aspect of the story were the conflicts. First, Lady Angela was forced to deal with a new king who was not only responsible for the death of her father, but was also threatening to take her lands. Then there’s the conflict that arises when she finds herself attracted to a Norman. And, or course, there’s the jealousy and insecurity that go hand-in-hand with new love. Throw in the huge obstacle of a forced betrothal to a depraved old man, and you’ve got a winner!

So, why not a 10? Well, I wanted more, a little more description and a little more conflict in certain places.

Can’t wait to read more offerings from Ms. Brown!

Demons Prefer Blondes by Sidney Ayers

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: SourceBooks
Paranormal
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Blurb: A Bad Day For A Demon
Rafe Deleon is a senior demon and he resents like hell his assignment to Earth to retrieve the Chest of the Damned before it falls into the wrong hands. But then he meets beautiful, intriguing succubus Lucy Gregory, and she’s just unleashed a whole load of trouble…

Really Sucks For A Succubus
Lucy’s chic suburban beauty salon has suddenly become the Underworld’s center of mass chaos and destruction. The only good thing in a day going rapidly down the tubes is the arrival of a gorgeous demon who’s adamant that he can help her…

But Lucy has quite a few deeply unpleasant—not to mention deadly and hateful—surprises ahead of her, and surely there’s never been a worse time to try out a new boyfriend…

Review: Snappy...Spicy...Sexy...Sassy...SMOKIN' Without a doubt one of the best paranormals that I have read in a good while.

This "keep you on your toes" romance lit a fire for me that just wouldn't go out...and I didn't want it to :) A great read from an author that has a flair all her own. I am so looking forward to more in this Demons Unleashed series because if they are half as good as this one you will be blown away!!!

Ms Ayers truely has a gift when it comes to crafting characters and plot that POP. Look out world...I just found a new MUST READ AUTHOR!!!

Virgin (The Cat Star Chronicles) by Cheryl Brooks

Story: 7
Presentation: 8
Total: 15
Publisher: SourceBooks
SciFi Romance
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Blurb: Zetithians have a feline gene that gives the males remarkable sexual prowess. Refugee Dax is no exception—but as a virgin, he has no idea how to use it. His fumbling attempts at romance fail to tempt the beautiful Ava, but he is determined to learn the art of love. Let the seduction begin...


Review: I have to admit, I have read all of The Cat Star Chronicles and was excited when I had the chance to read this one. With that being said, I was slightly disappointed Captain Jack only had such a brief role, and if you had not read all the whole series, the possibility of being confused with her words and actions are probable. I will not say that I did not enjoy the story, because I did enjoy it. This book could be read as a stand alone, but to read the entire series back-to-back would allow you to understand the Who's, the What's, and the Why's that I feel kinda got missed. The new characters are intriguing, the attention to detail was wonderful (I do want a KOTS!) and the idea of for the subliminal advertising is brilliant!

I look forward to the next of 9!

Rodeo Rescue by Teri Wilson

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Inspirational Romance
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Blurb: With the ink still dry on her new veterinary license, Rodeo Queen Ruth Davis returns to Angel Springs as the new town vet. It seems her plans to save the world as a veterinary missionary are on hold. But, when her first patient arrives in the arms of battered rodeo man, Dodge Atwell, she realizes God has bigger plans than she ever dreamed possible.

The last thing Dodge wants, or needs, in his life is Ruth. Her annoying habit of quoting Scripture only serves to remind him that she’s everything he’s not—Pure, innocent, good.

When Dodge returns to her clinic, with yet another rescued dog, Ruth cannot help but become fascinated with the man and his scars—the physical ones there for the world to see, as well as spiritual ones she senses lurking beneath the surface.

Could the reluctant animal savior be the hero she’s been waiting for all her life?

Review: I am going to sound like a broken record but I just can't help it. Ms Wilson has done it AGAIN!!!!

Ms Wilson is a totally ROCKING author whose talent astounds me. She has the ability to pull you in as a reader and make you PART of the story. As this is a story in a series and I have read the first I have to say that I FEEL like I am part of this town and all the characters. The emotion is strong and the events are real. I LOVE the way Ms Wilson just lets it all flow in such a magical way. It came as no surprise to me how much I loved this story as there has been NOTHING of Ms Wilsons that I have read so far that has not just blown me away. I am looking forward to reading her work for years to come.

Last Rake Standing by Jayne Fresina

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 7
Total: 14.5
Publisher: Evernight
Historical
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Blurb: In Victorian London, Emma Hale leads two lives. As Le Petite Oiseau, in corset and pink feathers, she's the reigning queen of the music hall; offstage she's a prim-faced theatre seamstress. For years these two women have shared one body; now they share something else—forbidden love for a man who could destroy them both.

Marcus Craven, Duke of Penhale, wants Le Petite Oiseau as his mistress, but he's also sworn to hunt down and revenge himself on the hazel-eyed girl who once shot at him with a dueling pistol. On this winter's evening when he finds both women in his path, he suddenly faces a dilemma.
What exactly does Marcus want? The fiery, passionate actress or the quiet "mouse" hiding in her shadow?

Perhaps this notorious rake wants them both.

Review: Let me begin by saying that the blurb really grabbed me. As I started reading I got sucked in and really enjoyed the story. While I found the characters and the authors ability to craft a tale I had to stop and scratch my head near the end. I had to stop reading, go back and re-read about 15 pages of text. To me it seemed almost as if the author began the story with one ending in mind and later the characters just sort of changed directions on her a bit. Now, I don't know for sure if that was the case, but as a reader I felt a bit confused near the end.

That does NOT mean that overall I didn't enjoy the story. Quite the opposite actually. I am looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. If the intricate nature of this story is any indication of what can be expected of Ms Fresina, I think that I have found a new MUST READ author :)

Acting Naughty by GA Hauser

Story: 8

Presentation: 9

Total: 17
Publisher: GA Hauser Collection
m/m Contemporary Erotic
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Blurb: Keith O’Leary has been trying to break into acting for ages. When he is offered a part in the newest cable television drama he realizes it could be the chance of a lifetime. Only it means playing a gay man and Keith, live-in girlfriend and all, is definitely straight. Or so he thought, until sexy Carl Bronson kisses him on camera.

Carl Bronson, the consummate professional, never thought he’d fall for a co-star, but he has, and hard, for Keith. To Carl’s amazement the feeling is mutual, and soon the sparks start to fly both on screen and off. Things are perfect until someone threatens to expose them as real lovers, placing their future in the acting business in jeopardy.

Will they follow the advice of Keith’s agent Adam Lewis, and deny, deny, deny their true feelings to the tabloids? Or take the chance and expose themselves, their love and possibly risk their careers? Sometimes the hardest role for an actor is real life.

Review: I enjoyed so much of this story, I’d say 90%, but the parts I didn’t enjoy, I really hated. Lol Carl and Keith are perfect together. I love how their relationship developed and how they came to terms with their attraction to one another and also the fear of discovery. Carl seemed much more at ease with his sexuality and was willing to embrace it easier than Keith. Keith had moments where my heart ached for him, and times I wanted to ring his neck. I think that makes for a great internal conflict within a character. The story is about the characters. Their wants, their fears, acceptance and sadly that there are those, even those we love, who can’t or won’t accept simple truths. The sex was hot, the “acting scenes” even hotter because the sexually tension sizzled on the page. There are numerous story threads left unexplored. The only resolution is that Carl and Keith are going to live together and explore their relationship. In the end this is definitely a book worth reading.

Solo Honeymoon by Jillian Chantal

Story: 7
Presentation: 8.5
Total: 15.5
Publisher: Siren BookStrand
Contemporary
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Blurb: Emma Chauncey finds her fiancé naked with one of her bridesmaids on top of him three days before her wedding. Burned by the experience, she takes a friend on her honeymoon. They travel to an Italian villa where Emma plans to nurse her broken heart.

Wealthy, titled, and handsome women’s shoe designer Dario de Luca is also at the villa. In disguise as a dance instructor, he’s determined to find a woman to love him for himself, not his wealth and title. Sparks fly between Emma and Dario, until she learns his true identity. Hurt that another man has lied to her, and distrusting her own judgment, she flees. Dario follows her to New York. But Emma’s former fiancé is back with an agenda of his own. Can Dario convince Emma he’s the man for her even though he lied about his identity? Can he convince her she deserves true love?

Note: This book contains adult language.

Review: I'll admit that once I started reading I got a bit worried. For me this title started off a bit slow but turned around pretty well. Using a pretty classic plot, I found that I was pulled along with the characters on their journey...and discovered it was one that I was glad to have been on with them :)

While it may not be one that I ever read again I found that as a whole I enjoyed this book :)

Lady Wicked by Delle Jacobs

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Historical
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Blurb: When the Ton's most infamous rake, Thomas Steynes, Viscount Savoury, is forced to retreat to his ancient, abandoned, family manor to redeem his wasted life, he comes upon a woman being tormented by village boys. Rushing to the rescue, he discovers his damsel in distress is instead the viper-tongued harpy who hates him more than anyone else on earth.

Cast aside by her violent husband, the last thing Davina, Lady Wyckham, needs is an irkingly handsome knight in tarnished armor hell bent to rescue her. After her brutal marriage, all she wants is to be left alone, to support herself raising herbs to sell to apothecaries. As if she weren't ruined enough, Savoury's attention can only bring more disaster.

Despite their intentions, true friendship and trust grow between them, and the attraction they had long denied begins to deepen. But behind their backs lurks a dark mystery that threatens them both. Only by uncovering and thwarting the sinister plot can they have a chance for survival and love.

Review: This was a really interesting story. Not only were the characters captivating but the attention to detail was wonderful.

Even though there were a couple parts that seemed to get a little long overall I really enjoyed the tale. Heartbreaking and heartwarming all in one. A really good story that I am glad I read.

Good Job Ms Jacobs. I can't wait to read more of your work :)

Rafe's Redemption by Jennifer Jakes

Story: 6.5
Presentation: 8
Total: 14.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Erotic Historical
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Blurb: He rode into town to buy supplies, not a woman.

For hunted recluse Rafe McBride, the raven-haired beauty on the auction block is exactly what he doesn't need. A dependent woman will be another clue his vengeful stepbrother can use to find and kill him. But Rafe's conscience won't let him leave another innocent's virginity to the riff-raff bidding. He buys her, promising to return her to St. Louis untouched. He only prays the impending blizzard holds off before her sultry beauty breaks his willpower.

She wanted freedom, not a lover.

Whisked to the auction block by her devious, gambling cousin, and then sold into the arms of a gorgeous stranger, outspoken artist Maggie Monroe isn't about to go meekly. Especially when the rugged mountain man looks like sin and danger rolled into one. But a blizzard and temptation thrust them together, and Maggie yearns to explore her smoldering passion for Rafe.

But when the snow clears, will the danger and secrets that surround Rafe and Maggie tear them apart?

Review: I was really excited when I saw this one. The blurb just grabbed me and I couldn't wait to dig in. Then I got the review copy.

I won't say that I didn't enjoy the story because it was enjoyable...there were just some issues that I had that made this one less than par for me. While I felt that the two main characters were a bit wishy washy, I did like them. Even though the sex scenes didn't really curl my toes they were detailed.

The writing style wasn't something I had ever read before so a big portion of my "ifiness" is becuase of that. Now don't get me wrong, I did finish the story and found parts of it amazing but as a whole I am not sure that I would read it again. I WOULD like to read more by this author because I really enjoyed her imagry and attention to deatil in the way she crafted her story. This particular one just wasn't a home run for me.

Boss With Benefits by Lelani Black

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 8.5
Total: 17
Publisher: Audio Lark
Contemporary Erotic
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Blurb: Hot Honolulu bachelor Jack Sloane has finally fallen in love. Problem is, he can’t find his woman–a mysterious beauty who showed up after-hours at his Waikiki office and spent one erotic night with him he'll never forget. How such a sexy beauty could be his frumpy secretary's sister is a mystery. He has to see her again and convince her he's worth more than a one night stand.
Keely St. John has no intention of helping her gorgeous boss locate his fantasy girl. How can she without exposing her secret? It’s bad enough she’s spent the last three months fantasizing about him while carefully maintaining her drab image. Now her one lusty night with the island tycoon could cost more than just her job and a Boss with Benefits.

Review: Now, I had already read this story in e-book but when I saw it come across my email in audio form I knew I had to check it out. The story was still cute and the sex was still smokin'. I thought that the narrorator did a good gob expressing emotion and characters.

No doubt that Ms Black has written a steamy tale but I must give props to Audio Lark for their quality of audio book. I find that I really enjoy the vast majority of the product that they put out and have to say that when I am in the market for an audio of my favorite titles you can bet that I will be going to them :)

Whom Gods Have Favored by Denyse M Bridger

Story: 5
Presentation: 5
Total: 10
Publisher: XOXO Publishing
Historical Erotic
To Purchase

Blurb: Pompeii lies complacent and decadent in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, the populace thriving on their depravity and their hunger for blood and Games. In the midst of the looming destruction, an ancient evil emerges, and claims not only a celebrated general of Rome, but the slave girl he has slowly grown to love and cherish. A girl who will follow him into hell itself, and rewrite the Fate that awaits so many...

Review: The story, like the blurb, has a lot going on. While Ms. Bridger does an excellent job of setting the scene--generals, slaves, politicians, gladiators, oh my--there are too many points of view presented during the story. While the multitude of povs provide glimpses into the intrigues boiling under the surface, which does add to the realism of the setting, the story is just too short to fully develop the characters. Additionally, the sex scenes aren’t as detailed as I would have liked for an erotic story.