Tag Archives: romance

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Ice Planet Barbarians

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I had yet to delve into the works of this author until now, but I was completely captivated by this story. While the premise may echo themes we’ve encountered before, it’s the execution that truly matters, and this tale is masterfully crafted. From the very first page, I was pulled into the narrative and found myself unable to set it down until the final word. I quickly developed a genuine affection for the characters, who were incredibly well-developed considering the brevity of their introductions. Although the world-building is solid, I felt there’s still room for more exploration, particularly regarding the planet’s unique flora and fauna.

At the center of the story is Georgie Carruthers, a pragmatic woman who has never put stock in the idea of extraterrestrial life. However, her beliefs face a dramatic upheaval when she and several other women are abruptly abducted from Earth in the dead of night and transported aboard a mysterious spacecraft destined for an unknown location. When the ship encounters mechanical issues, the captors make the decision to jettison their human cargo, leaving the women stranded on a desolate ice planet, with plans to come back for them later.

However, the women refuse to accept a fate of waiting to be reclaimed. Electing Georgie as their unexpected leader, she bravely takes on the critical task of seeking assistance and a way out of their bleak predicament. Enter Vektal, a striking native of the icy world who possesses both the desire and the means to help her.

The narrative shifts seamlessly between the perspectives of Georgie and Vektal, offering a rich, multidimensional experience that immerses the reader deeply in their journey. The story is infused with a tantalizing spice that enhances the romantic tension without crossing into the realm of the overly sensational. I eagerly anticipate the continuation of this saga; that level of excitement is a true testament to the author’s skill.

My rating: 😊😊😊😊

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A Witches Mortal Desire

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This is a new author for me, and while I encountered a few issues, I still enjoyed the story overall. It took me a while to get through it, mainly because there were moments when the pacing slowed down, prompting me to set the book aside temporarily. However, I always returned to it, believing it was worth the effort.

I liked all the characters except for Sadie’s mother, who lacked any redeeming qualities in my view. While the characters were generally well-developed, I felt they could use a bit more depth, which can likely be addressed in future books. I also noticed a few typos, such as “titled” instead of “tilted.” Additionally, the world they inhabit could have been better fleshed out, especially since it is supposed to parallel our own.

Sadie Willamena Holt is the middle child in a family of witches but lacks magic and the respect of her mother and older sister. They treat her poorly, making her feel like a bad and evil person because of who she is.

Sadie has come to terms with being an outsider, as it is a role she has always occupied. Nevertheless, she has good friends who make her feel valued and a life that is worth living. Her life may be unconventional, but it is still uniquely hers.

There are some steamy elements to be aware of, as this story includes ménage pairings of various genders. I would recommend it.

My rating: ✪✪✪✪

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Mountain Man

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I adore this author and usually relish the tales I read, but this particular story didn’t fully meet my expectations. Initially, I could predict the plot from the first chapter and character introduction. The characters were well-developed, to the extent that I genuinely disliked one of them for her lifelike portrayal. However, I missed a sense of the town and its inhabitants, as I enjoy rich backdrops. The main characters received some background, but it felt insufficient, providing just a skeletal understanding of their identities before they came together.

William Black relocated to Marshall Heights to escape what he viewed as unforgivable failures, believing he didn’t deserve to be part of society. Living reclusively on the mountain, he’s the subject of much speculation, yet the truth of his past remains hidden. Delilah, a bank employee, encounters William during his biweekly visits to cash checks. Despite the rumors, she senses they’re unfounded. Her admiration turns to affection after witnessing an act she deems heroic. Complicating matters is Janet, the proverbial thorn in the side, who seeks to rekindle a relationship with William for less than noble motives.

The romance was endearing and somewhat steamy. I would suggest it to others, as the author’s talent shines through, and fans of this book are likely to appreciate their other works as well.

My rating: 💖💖💖

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The MacKinnon’s Bride

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I found myself enjoying this historical romance more than I anticipated. Initially, it didn’t captivate me, as the story began on a rather unexciting note, but it eventually won me over. The book felt slightly longer than necessary since I deduced the identity of the traitor within the first few chapters. However, I grew fond of the main characters once they took center stage, with their interactions unfolding as expected. The secondary characters elicited varying levels of engagement from me.

When Laird Iain MacKinnon’s son is captured and delivered to the English by a traitor, the Scottish chieftain retaliates by abducting the daughter of the man detaining his son. His intention is to exchange the girl for his son’s return. Unexpectedly, after his son is returned, FitzSimon instructs Iain to keep the girl, claiming she is of no use to him. Page FitzSimon suspects Iain of deceit when he doesn’t send her home, yet deep down, she knows he isn’t at fault.

Two narratives are unfolding: the romance between MacKinnon and Page, and the tale of MacKinnon’s quest to confront the traitor who kidnapped his son.

This book is a tapestry of love, honor, suspense, and passion. I enjoyed both reading and listening to it, with the audiobook being particularly engaging thanks to Braden Wright, who vividly brings the characters to life. The Scottish accents are well-executed, although I’ve seldom heard one in person. The exchanges between Iain and Page are intensely passionate and often infused with humor. I would recommend this book to anyone fond of Highland warriors or simply looking for a compelling romance.

My rating: ⚝⚝⚝⚝

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Midnight Labyrinth

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The first three novellas provide a solid introduction to the series, acquainting us with key characters in Ben and Tenzin’s story. I give it 4.5 stars for the significant enjoyment it offers. Though not immediately gripping, by the second chapter, I was fully engaged and eager to see what would unfold next. The introduction of new characters and the return of familiar ones is appreciated after some time.

Benjamin Vecchio has abandoned his tumultuous life in New York, where he was raised by a famed vampire assassin. Now an adult, he comes back to the city that once brought him sorrow, intent on establishing an identity separate from his aunt and uncle. With Tenzin at his side, Ben begins to set up an antiquities recovery business in New York, echoing Giovanni’s rare book enterprise in California.

On a business outing one night, Ben encounters Chloe, his high school sweetheart, and they rekindle their relationship. Chloe introduces Ben to the works of Emil Samson, her celebrated artist, at an art gallery. There, Ben is struck by two discoveries: a troubling story from a young woman tied to a missing artwork, part of a trilogy, which he pledges to find pro bono, much to Tenzin’s chagrin. Moreover, their endeavors rarely proceed without complications.

This installment brings just the right amount of thrill, setting the stage for future books. It also addresses a grave domestic issue with appropriate sensitivity and attention. The experience is highly enjoyable, particularly when experienced through an audiobook that brings the characters to life vividly.

My rating: ✯✯✯✯½

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The Handbook

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The story begins at a leisurely pace, introducing the main characters individually, but gains momentum when Nikki and Derek meet. While some characters are mere stereotypes, they serve to advance the plot effortlessly. More classroom interactions would have been preferable, as the main characters, particularly the teacher, often end up clubbing instead.

Nikki Sloan, after being dumped by her long-term boyfriend, spirals downward, despite the relationship not being right for her. As she starts to recover, a disastrous date sends her plunging back into despair. Discovering a notebook claiming to transform her into the ultimate seductress, she embarks on a journey to gain confidence and power.

Derek Anderson, a professor rumored to be involved with his students, finds himself coerced into taking over another instructor’s classes when the dean hears of his alleged affairs. This twist of fate brings him and Nikki together. Derek, who prides himself on bachelorhood, begins to see the potential for change.

Initially, Nikki appears immature, but she matures significantly as she follows the notebook’s advice. Derek, too, starts off seeming juvenile but reveals deeper layers. Although this genre isn’t my usual preference, I find these stories quite engaging and am open to exploring more.

This book should appeal to anyone who enjoys a heartfelt romance with a guaranteed happy ending.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

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Omens and Artifacts

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Although I adore the characters, they seemed somewhat underdeveloped in this instance. I missed the usual action associated with Ben and Tenzin as they strive to establish their business. The new characters didn’t excite me, but there’s always potential for growth if they reappear.

In the Elemental world, reputation is crucial, yet it’s a double-edged sword. Benjamin Vecchio is venturing into the world of antiquities hunting and is in dire need of clients. His uncle’s notoriety as a legendary fire vampire assassin has generated much intrigue but hasn’t translated into job offers. Benjamin needs a significant find to earn the recognition and prestige he seeks. If he can recover Brennus the Celt’s lost sword, he believes it could be his breakthrough. All he needs is for a descendant of Brennus to employ him for the search.

Securing his reputation might also endanger his life, but that’s par for the course in the perilous realm of ancient vampires.

It remains an excellent choice for fans of the series.

My rating: ✭彡✭彡✭彡

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Imitation and Alchemy

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Once more, I was drawn into the world of these unique vampires with their fascinating lives. The humans connected to them are equally intriguing, living alongside predators who are just a moment away from turning on them. The seamless introduction of new characters gives an immediate understanding of their personas.

Ben expected a tranquil summer before his final college semester, but that was wishful thinking. Tenzin, intrigued by the prospect of locating a trove of invaluable medieval coins for the vampire ruling Naples, planned a trip to Italy.

Ben vowed not to get entangled in another of Tenzin’s plots. A year later, he finds himself on the brink of another Italian adventure with her, lacking crucial details. Once again, Tenzin’s actions surprise him, revealing hidden agendas. Yet, this apparent debacle might have a silver lining.

The sequel may lack the action of its predecessor, but it offers a more compelling narrative that delves deeper into Ben and Tenzin’s relationship. Ben contemplates his significance to Tenzin, who appears to have claimed him as her own. As they embark on their new partnership and living situation, their lives are bound to become even more entwined.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

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Bronco

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Summer Camile Sellers, once wealthy, has lost everything due to others’ arrogance. Her life, now a prolonged nightmare, finds solace only in her horse, Aria, and the hope of rebuilding. At 22, Summer faces her first job unprepared, journeying to Springhill Ranch in Colorado, clinging to hope for a better future.

My feelings towards Summer are mixed; her arrogance is evident, yet she acknowledges the need for humility. Nonetheless, she is a compelling character, capable of growth, which I appreciate.

Jake Lawson, the quintessential cowboy, has little patience for city dwellers but makes an exception for Summer, the attractive newcomer at the ranch. Both harbor secrets; Jake’s are closely guarded, yet Summer prompts him to contemplate a future he’s never considered—one with her alone. His uncertainty about her feelings, however, remains a barrier.

I was drawn to Jake immediately, perhaps due to his upright nature or simply my fondness for cowboys.

The sexual tension between them was palpable from the outset, escalating to a crescendo that was timely yet not premature. Their story is a tender tale of two individuals scarred by their pasts, who never envisioned finding a kindred spirit, yet they did in each other. While Contemporary Romance isn’t always my preference, this story captivated me, leaving me curious about their future—a testament to its impact.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½

The cover has been updated since the original reading.

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Shadows and Gold

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I’m thrilled that this author is continuing to build upon a world with characters I’ve grown to adore. The new series embarks on adventures with two previously secondary characters, Ben and Tenzin, whose dynamic promises thrilling escapades. We witness Ben’s world broaden as he navigates a realm filled with vampires.

Tenzin, after watching a news report about the devastation of a province in China, entices Ben into her plan to illicitly retrieve her treasure trove. Initially, Ben complies, eager to enhance his Mandarin with the new semester approaching, and China seems the perfect place for it. Upon discovering Tenzin’s true intentions, he consents to proceed, provided he can choose some items for himself.

Ben had intended to keep Tenzin out of mischief, but deterring a 5000-year-old wind vampire prone to trouble is no small feat.

This series opener is fantastic, and I’m eager to see where it leads in terms of settings and the evolution of Ben and Tenzin’s relationship. The story strikes a fine balance between tension and action, introducing compelling new characters. Fans of the Elemental vampires are sure to enjoy this installment.

My rating: 🌠🌠🌠🌠