Retroreduxs Reviews

This months pasts reads

2011-05-11T09:26:00.001-05:00

1-Once A Scoundrel by Candice Hern-pretty good Historical Romance, part two of the The Ladies Fashionable Cabinet Trilogy -4 stars

2- Once A Gentleman by Candice Hern- the final book in the The Ladies Fashionable Cabinet Trilogy-not as good as the first two-the heroine and hero were too weak-3 stars

3-The Gamble by Joan Wolf-excellent book-finished it in a day-5 stars!

4-The Duke's Wager by Edith Layton-first of two interrelated books. Excellent traditional that features not one, but two really bad boy rakes. 5 stars.

5-The Disdainful Marquis by Edith Layton-not as good as The Duke's Wager but still better than average 3.5 stars.

Reading Catch Up

2011-04-04T04:34:00.001-05:00

Life has been super busy lately , so no time for these last weeks reviews. Here is what I've recently finished though.

Sins of Midnight by Kimberly Logan-an OK Victorian Historical. 3 stars
Snake Agent by Liz William-a pretty good Urban Fantasy set in a "future world" China-4 stars
The Bride Sale by Candice Hern-a very good Regency Historical-4 stars

Lord Rivington's Lady by Eileen Jackson

2011-03-14T12:14:00.002-05:00

Read For:
Reading My Shelves Project
1000 Regency Challenge
ROR Spring 11
Forgotten Treasures Challenge (1976)
Buck Stops Here Challenge ($1 through online seller)

Synopsis:
LORD ALEXANDER RIVINGTON WAS THE MOST HATEFUL MAN GEORGINA HAD EVER KNOWN

Lord Rivington began by virtually assaulting Georgina at their first chance meeting. Then this incredibly wealthy and handsome aristocrat publicly mocked Georgina's views on the rights of women while the cream of Regency society looked on. From there he went on to physically thrash Georgina's beloved brother, financially ensnare Georgina's family, not bother to deny his shameful relationship to a servant girl - and arrogantly demand Georgina in marriage.

Georgina had every reason to detest this thoroughly impossible and egotistical male. She vowed that nothing in the world would make her join the list of victims of his charms. Indeed, Lord Rivington was due for a richly earned comeuppance - and Georgina for a most unexpected awakening...

My Review:

Lord Rivington's Lady was a very good "Old School" Regency that have quite a Pride and Prejudice vibe to it. Georgina was overall a good heroine, an outspoken Lady of Quality though living in Poverty after her father squandered the family fortune gambling. I do wish she would have come to her senses about Alexander, the hero, earlier in the story, as it would have been a five star book then. Lord Rivington is very much a "Mr Darcy"-a hero that hides his emotion, as lessons learned from his abusive past.

Overall, a fast, fun Regency read. 4 stars.

Lady May's Folly by Donna Simpson

2011-03-07T08:06:00.001-06:00

Read For:
1000 Regency Challenge
Buck Stops Here Challenge
Reading My Shelves Project
ROR Spring 11

Synopsis:
A COUNTRY AFFAIR

When Lady May van Hoffen sets out on a ride across her country estate, she anticipates nothing more than a sentimental visit to the Gothic folly where she played as a child. Yet while the sight of a wounded man within its stone walls is quite shocking, what is more amazing is the man's identity. For it is Etienne Delafont who lies bleeding in the cottage, the gallant Frenchman who helped May escape from a devious kidnapper--and the man both May and the ton have believed dead for months! With just one glance at the darkly handsome Etienne, May knows that her innocent tendre for him has survived, as well. Sheltering him may be a scandalous notion, but for once the risks don't signify. And for May, the chance of danger is far less frightening than the idea that her greatest folly may be losing her heart...

My review:

I loved the previous book in this trilogy, Lady Delafont's Dilemma, so much, and wanted to see what happens to May and Etienne, that I went through my TBR boxes, grabbed my copy of Lady May's Folly, and read it all the way through in about 3 hours!

Etienne and May, are in many ways, complete opposites, but the chemistry is there. Etienne is the comsumate French "reformed Rake"- a good hearted scoundrel, a gourmand of, in his words "deliciously plump and voluptuous older widows".

Etienne is a "sigh worthy" hero-very sexy, very French, and very much "saved" by May's goodness. Even his recurrent use of his endearment for May, "little one"-which would normally make me cringe, made me wish for my own Etienne-LOL. He seemed a sexy younger version of a Maurice Chevallier!

May, is everything that Etienne normally runs from-prim, uptight, thin and willowy and small busted. He's a town playboy and she's a country mouse ala Tomboy who actively dislikes most men. But May has very real, abusive reasons for her fear and dislike of men and Etienne is the perfect, gentle and sweet "tutor" that shows her that not all men are cads or lechers.

Another good one from Donna Simpson-5 stars.

Lady Delafont's Dilemma by Donna Simpson

2011-03-07T07:31:00.001-06:00

Read For:
ROR Spring Challenge
Reading My Shelves
1000 Regency Challenge
Buck Stops Here Challenge

Synopsis:
HE WAS THE LOVE OF HER LIFE...

Lady Emily Delafont wanted to be alone. For five years, she lived a solitary life in Yorkshire, finding serenity and almost forgetting him. Baxter. The Marquess of Sedgely. Her husband. She knew that their marriage had been stormy, but she never expected Baxter to abandon her for his trip to the Continent. Now nothing would have prompted Lady Emily to have seen him again -- except a message that he was in danger.

...AND SHE OF HIS

Attacks upon his person by a secret enemy had put his life in danger, but it was meeting Lady Emily again that truly put Baxter in peril. She was still completely kissable! But in his mind, only one thing stands in the way of full reconciliation -- the dashing young Frenchman Bax believes to be his wife's lover. Pride will not let him claim his wife if she prefers another man -- yet passion will not let his soul rest until he has the only lady he has ever loved in his arms again....

My Review:

Donna Simpson is turning into one of my favorite authors. I've read Lady Savage and Lord St. Clair's Angel by her and really enjoyed them. The heroine in this story, Emily, is the Aunt of Celestine in Lord St. Clair's Angel. The fact that she has been separated from her husband for 5 years is mentioned in that book though you needn't read it to enjoy this book (though I HIGHLY recommend it).

It's a sign of great writing that this author could take several subjects that I normally hate to read about-love triangle, separation, and adultery, but still write an engaging, moving, and in my opinion, very romantic/highly sensual story. I love that the couple-who are in their thirties and forties, are written with the normal aging we all go through (graying hair, gaining a few pounds, not as active as we once were) but they are still desirable to each other, others and still want sex! LOL! We don't stop wanting it just because we age:)

I also applaud the author for having a male friend of the couple, who plays matchmaker to get them back together, who is witty and heroic, and well loved by his friends, who is also Gay. It is approached with sensitivity and heart and leaves the reader wanting to know how Sylvester Lessington's story finishes-I wonder if we ever find out in another book?

A great Regency-so good I had to hurry and read the last book in the trilogy, Lady May's Folly, next!
5 stars.

The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann

2011-03-07T06:53:00.000-06:00

Read For:
Contemporary Romance Challenge
Reading From My Shelves
ROR Spring Challenge
The Buck Stops Here Challenge (49 cents at Goodwill)

Synopsis:
SOMETIMES LOVE IS THE GREATEST VICTORY....

After a near-fatal head injury, Navy SEAL lieutenant Tom Paoletti catches a terrifying glimpse of an international terrorist in his New England hometown. When he calls for help, the navy dismisses the danger as injury-induced imaginings. In a desperate, last-ditch effort to prevent disaster, Tom creates his own makeshift counterterrorist team, assembling his most loyal officers, two elderly war veterans, a couple of misfit teenagers, and Dr. Kelly Ashton -- the sweet "girl next door" who has grown into a remarkable woman. The town's infamous bad boy, Tom has always longed for Kelly. Now he has one final chance for happiness, one last chance to win her heart, and one desperate chance to save the day....

My review:
This was my first Suzanne Brockmann. I had mixed expectations for this book. As not much of a fan of Contemporary Romance I had low expectations but since I do normally like Romantic Suspense and the few Military Romances I've read, that raised my expectations a bit.

The Unsung Hero pleasantly surprised me. I enjoyed the lead story between Tom and Kelly-fairly good interaction and somewhat scorching love scenes. But I really enjoyed more than that all the secondary characters and their trials and tribulations. The mix of the specialist and "ragtag" Troubleshooters crew, the idea that they were on a secret mission because the Government thought the thought of a terrorist attack in sleepy Massachusetts a product of Tom's brain injury, and the back story flashbacks from Tom's Uncle and Kelly's Dad in World War II Germany were very moving. The story was both exciting and had me tearing up as well. This is the first in Brockmann's "Troubleshooters" series (currently at 16 books!) and I look forward to reading the next installment.

5 stars.

The Lost Heiress of Hawkscliffe by Joyce C. Ware

2011-02-27T17:49:00.001-06:00

Read For:
Gothic Challenge
Reading My Shelves Project
The Buck Stops Here Challenge

Synopsis:
Katherine Mackenzie agreed to catalogue the Ramsay oriental rug collection before she realized the drama playing out in the famous painter's manion. Ramsay's heir, his exotic mistress Roxelana, had been missing for seven years and was about to be declared legally dead. Katherine wanted no part of the intrigue-until she noticed that in Roxelana's portrait, the beauty was wearing the same ring that Katherine had inherited. Gothic by Joyce C. Ware; originally published by Zebra Gothic

My Review:

A fairly good, albeit purple prosey Gothic Romance. I enjoyed the unusual characters, the Armenian background and the heroines career as a Arabian Rug expert. The hero was a bit of a jerk and his "redemption" towards the end was a bit too easy. All in all, I recommend this book to a Gothic fan looking for a different locale.

3 stars.

ROR Spring 2011 Challenge List

2011-02-22T01:42:00.007-06:00

Spring '11 Challenge List

To Join go HERE

Here is your list for the Spring ‘11 (March, April, May) Reading Challenge! (March 1- May 31)

RULES:
1. Select ANY number of books to read that fit the category.
2. Post your list on the discussion board and blog (Name’s Winter 11 Challenge List)
3. If you need title suggestions please use the Discussion titled WINTER TITLE SUGGESTIONS if you don't see it please search (to try and minimize number of discussions)
4. Once you have read a book please find the corresponding discussion by searching you can search by 11 Winter # and use the number that corresponds with the list. (one will be created for each number on December 1, again, to try and minimize number of discussions) and post the book and title you read and rating, and review.
5. It is not required, but if you could post your review on the blog that would be great.
6. Reviews on the blog please include labels list the rating, author, and # of challenge only.
7. Audio books are okay
8. Rereads are okay
9. You can change your list at anytime

The List:
1. Read a book that received a 2 or 1 Star rating from Shelfari, or a D or F review rating from allaboutromance.com

2. Read a book with Death, Deadly, Dead in the Title

3. Read an author’s Debut Novel (1st book published)-DONE-The Duke's Wager by Edith Layton-5 stars

4. Choose a book where the Hero or Heroine has an unusual job-DONE-Once A Gentlemen by Candice Hern-3.5 stars

5. Read a book that either has a flower or rain in the title or on the cover (for Spring)-DONE-Lord Rivington's Lady by Eileen Jackson-4 stars

6. Read a book set in your home state, province or county

7. Read a book set in New York, Paris or London-DONE-The Disdainful Marquis by Edith Layton-3.5 stars (Paris)

8. Surprise Category – Close your eyes and pick a book off of your TBR Pile-DONE-The Bride Sale by Candice Hern-4 stars

9. Read a book with a “Love Triangle”-DONE-Lady Delafont's Dilemma by Donna Simpson-5 stars

10. Read a book from your “TBR Pile” that you’ve put off because your hate the cover or title-DONE-Sins of Midnight by Kimberly Logan-3 stars

11. Read a book that features a Plus Sized Heroine

12. Read a book involving a Motorcycle – either in title, cover or storyline

13. Read a book by either Eloisa James or Stephanie Laurens

14. Reader’s Choice I-DONE-Lady May's Folly by Donna Simpson-5 stars

15. Reader’s Choice II-DONE-The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann-5 stars

Lord Of Illusions by Rita Boucher

2011-02-21T18:48:00.000-06:00

Read For:

1000 Regency Challenge

Pick Your Poison Challenge

Reading My Shelves Project

Buck Stops Here Challenge

Synopsis:

Hiding behind the countenance of a governess for an English lord, a highborn witch secretly spies on her employer, reading his mind, and sending secrets to the French. But England's head sorcerer, a secret agent in Wellington's army has been sent to investigate and unmask the traitor within the lord's ranks. Disguised as a traveling magician, the agent finds himself attracted to the governess and together they discover the enchanting power of love. A Regency romance original.

My Review:

Another good Traditional Regency/Paranormal Romance from Rita Boucher. I enjoyed how the author tied a semi secret society of aristocratic witches with a spy tale. Great Romany secondary characters too.

4 stars.

The Would-Be Witch by Rita Boucher

2011-02-21T18:36:00.002-06:00

Read For:
1000 Regency Challenge
Pick Your Poison Challenge
Reading My Shelves Project
Buck Stops Here Challenge

Synopsis:
A Bewitching Young Lady

Miranda Wilton had everything a young lady needed to shine in society - birth, beauty, and breeding. But though she cast her spell on a swarm of suitors, both her proud mother and powerful brother demanded the final say in choosing the man who took her hand.

Certainly Lord Adam Brand did not meet their strict standards or Miranda's own notion of the kind of mate she sought. Handsome and brilliant Lord Brand might be. But his arrogance filled Miranda with anger, and his mockery of Miranda's family tree made her want to make this unbending gentleman bow to the strength of her sweet sorcery. It was only when his lips came down on hers, that Miranda began to wonder who indeed had the power of magic.

My Review:
Very good traditional Regency with a Paranormal twist. Heroine is from a long line of witches but born without powers. Hero is a naysayer who lives to expose the spiritualist charlatans of the time who preyed on the rich and gullible aristocracy.

I liked this book so much that I'm reading Miranda's brother Damien's story, The Lord Of Illusion next.
4 stars.

A Countess By Christmas by Annie Burrows

2011-02-14T01:12:00.003-06:00

Synopsis:

The Earl of Bridgemere is happy to encourage his reputation as a curmudgeonly recluse if it repels the grasping females who usually attend his lavish Christmas parties.

Helen Forrest is like a breath of fresh air, uninterested in his wealth and not cowed by his temper.

Bridgemere's seasonal duty suddenly becomes a pleasure as he sets about making Helen his countess—by Christmas!

My Review:

I really enjoyed this book! 4.5 stars

A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas

2011-02-14T00:50:00.002-06:00

Synopsis:
The Wallflowers are four young ladies in London who banded together in their wild and wickedly wonderful searches for true love. Now happily married, they join together once again to help one of the world’s most notorious rogues realize that happiness might be right under the mistletoe.… It’s Christmastime in London and Rafe Bowman has arrived from America for his arranged meeting with Natalie Blandford, the very proper and beautiful daughter of Lady and Lord Blandford. His chiseled good looks and imposing physique are sure to impress the lady in waiting and, if it weren’t for his shocking American ways and wild reputation, her hand would already be guaranteed. Before the courtship can begin, Rafe realizes he must learn the rules of London society. But when four former Wallflowers try their hand at matchmaking, no one knows what will happen. And winning a bride turns out to be more complicated than Rafe Bowman anticipated, especially for a man accustomed to getting anything he wants. However, Christmas works in the most unexpected ways, changing a cynic to a romantic and inspiring passion in the most timid of hearts. A Wallflower Christmas takes a trip to Victorian London, under the mistletoe, and on a journey of the heart. With her trademark charm, sensuality, and unforgettable characters, there’s no one like Lisa Kleypas to make you believe in the magic of Christmas.

my review-
It was good, but not great. The story was way too short to deal with the heroine/hero's story properly. It was good to catch up with the Wallflowers though:)
3 stars.

Winter Blossom by Cynthia Sinclair

2011-02-10T02:49:00.003-06:00

Winter Blossom

Cynthia Sinclair

1983, 310 pages

Tapestry Romance #27

Synopsis:
NO MAN WOULD OWN HER.

Suzanna Rutledge's mother had been a Japanese companion to her father, a British trader. Cloistered for years, Suzanna barely knew him until James Rutledge summoned her to be a translator for his English partner.

Suzanna was ordered to cater to Lord Alex's every whim. But she had desires of her own and her heart would be given only to the man who would win it.

My Review:
Old School Bodice Ripper set in Japan, probably the 17th century era.

The heroine, Zanna, is a bi-racial child, her father a British merchant and her mother was his Japanese "companion", or concubine. The hero is another British Lord and Merchant who is sent to Japan to check on the London trading company that's being run by Rutledge, Zanna's father.

Pretty good Historical from the "Tapestry" line of romances of the 80's. Lot's of high drama, conniving, swindling, fighting and of course, bodice ripping ;) Interesting change of scene from the usual Historical Romance normally set in England. The author seemed to have researched feudal Japan quite a bit. It was enjoyable and I'll read more from this author. 4 stars.

The Oak Staircase by Mary Lee

2011-02-10T01:57:00.003-06:00

The Oak Stair case: Or The Stories Of Lord And Lady Desmond
Mary Lee
copyright 1872, 287 pages

Note: This is a FREE public domain book-you can download and read it yourself HERE.

My Review:
I downloaded this book simply because I liked the cover and with "Lord and Lady" in the title, I figured it was historical in nature.

The Oak Staircase was a harrowing and well written Young Adult Historical Fiction loosely based on a true event. The "Maids Of Taunton" and the 'Bloody Assizes' following the Monmouth Rebellion in 1685.

This was an exciting and unknown historical period for me, and one that so fascinated me from the story that I researched it after finishing the book. You can learn more about this period HERE and HERE.

The period was one of the bloodiest in England and while the book does not go into the gorier details, the writer was talented enough that you will feel the terror these poor young girls must have felt during this time.

The story is told in the vein of a almost bedtime story. It starts with two young descendants of Lord and Lady Desmond-who walk by their portraits on the Oak Staircase at the family estate many times, but know nothing about them. Their Uncle Algernon -who is writing a historical work, tells them of Lord and Lady Desmond's story, as though they had "come" to Algernon after death to share it with them. The story is told from the perspective of when Lord/Lady Desmond were children of 10 and 14, as this is when they were married (an event that happened sometimes to make an advantageous marriage amongst two noble families).

From Frances and Algernon's (Lord Desmond was also named Algernon) marriage, to Frances being sent to the boarding school which is to change her life forever, to Algernon's stint as one of the Queen's Page Boy attendants, The Oak Staircase was a fascinating, compelling read.

Don't let the fact that it's classified as Young Adult stop you from reading this. I didn't even realize it was young adult until after I finished it, and in no way hinders the stories believability or dealing with the dire aspects of the storyline. I'd recommend this to anyone, especially fans of Historical Fiction.

5 stars.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T15:31:00.001-06:00

Buddy Photobomb!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-27T02:58:00.001-06:00

Semi-Wordless Wednesday:)

Today the American Kennel Club Announced that the Labrador Retriever is the #1 most popular dog for the 20th straight year.

BUT....

Did you know that it's a fact that large black dogs (predominately Labs/Labs mixes) are the very LAST to be adopted from shelters?

So when you are ready for a pet-PLEASE consider adopting a Black Lab or Lab mix breed dog from your area shelter.

The Apple Tree Girl by George Weston

2011-01-23T04:39:00.002-06:00

The Apple Tree Girl By George Weston

1918, 157 pages

Read For:
Public Domain Challenge
Reading My Shelf Challenge
Forgotten Treasures Challenge
Buck Stops Here Challenge

This is a FREE Public Domain book. You can download it here:

My Review:
Very sweet story of a "Plain Jane" girl who, after being orphaned in her teens, starts a series of adventures. She is tormented by her cousin, who is very pretty on the outside, but a horror inside. The cousin constantly drills into Charlotte that she is worthless because she is homely. Charlotte, who is very smart and self sufficient, sets out to prove her wrong. A wonderfully charming story from the Edwardian era.

Unfinished-Surrender A Dream by Jill Barnett

2011-01-21T03:50:00.002-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
Synopsis:

Adelaide Amanda Pinkney was glad to bid Chicago farewell. After the bustle and crowds of the growing city, the news that her aunt and uncle had left her their California farm was like a dream come true.

But Addie's idyll was shattered the moment she reached California, and learned there was another claim on her land. Montana Creed was tall, headstrong, elemental ... as much a part of the rich and rugged California terrain as the fields and valleys that dotted its majestic landscape. As a boy, Montana had watched his father slaughtered, his land stolen--and he had vowed that one day he would fulfill his father's dream.

Addie soon discovered that Montana's stubborn streak ran as deep as her own ... and that his seductive smile was almost impossible to resist. As his reluctant bride, she came to cherish Montana's tender, passionate caresses. But she knew that one day he'd have to face the demons of his past--or lose the bright and loving promise of their future!

My Review:

My Amazon Review:
cannot agree more with the last reviewer. Those who liked this book and thought it "touching" must be mental. This is one of those romances where the hero and heroine constantly-and I mean every minute constantly-fight each other. I've never understood the attraction in those storylines anyway, but this one is a bit extreme. The hero kicks the door in of the heroines home, and tries to physically throw her out of the house.He then SHOOTS at the heroine, inside her home and holds a gun to her chest-while thinking to himself that he appreciates her "spunk" in not flinching as he holds a gun on her? What in the world is supposed to be romantic about that?

Basically it's a "let's treat each other like dogs so we can suddenly realize we love each other the last 25 pages of the book".
Not recommended.

The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin

2011-01-17T16:50:00.002-06:00

Read For:

Pick Your Poison Reading Challenge

2011 Reading From My Shelves Project

What's In A Name 4

1000 Regency Challenge

ROR Winter Challenge

Buck Stops Here Challenge ($1 on ebay)

Synopsis:
Dreams Are Made of This

Penelope Jones is a young woman of reduced means, eager to give her family one less mouth to feed. Seeking a position as governess for the Silverthorne family, she is put off by James Betterton--Lord Silverthorne's notoriously rakish cousin--around whom her unsullied reputation will certainly be at risk. Then she is startled to see a painting of Silverthorne Castle--the exact image that has haunted her dreams since childhood. Still, Penny cannot let some handsome, well-fed roisterer--or some eerily coincidental dream--place her future at risk....

Penny decides to accept the position, hoping to help Lady Silverthorne, who is being haunted by ghosts identical to those in Penelope's dreams. Though she doesn't believe in such things, Penny has to agree that something out of the ordinary is happening at the castle. There are ghosts indeed, and they seem to want to bestow on her a great treasure that a dangerous man intends to steal. James Betterton wants to protect Penny. But first he must convince her to forget her fears about his past reputation...and to accept his love.

My Review:
This is the first June Calvin traditional Regency I've read. This book came out in 2006-pretty much the end of the production of traditional Regency romances. What I didn't realize was that this was also Miss Calvin's last book. How do I know that? Because surprisingly, she announces that this is her last book in the front of the book.

Ok...I found that a bit odd, to say the least. Most of the time we find out a book is an author's last book from the simple matter of their not getting any more published. This "announcement" kind of struck me as more an "I quit" than anything else.

Why do I bring this up, you might add? Because this book just seemed like a rushed, half finished, unloved book, that's why. The characters are one dimensional, there is almost no thread on continuity to the story, in fact a whole new storyline is sort of "plopped" into the book almost three fourths in! And it made no sense!

The heroine couldn't make up her mind from being Miss Forthright one minute, to completely lying to all her new friends in order to supposedly "protect" a family member the next. But overall, she was just stupid.

But in all honesty, we could perhaps overlook a TSTL heroine if there was a fabulous hero, right? Well, sadly, he's just not it. He's a reformed rake-but the reader gets the impression that he had to reform cause he's just not smart enough to carry off rakedom anymore :(.

Not even getting into a secondary character, a "dependent Aunt" who constantly publicly insults the heroine in her guests home, and yet they never do or say anything to the Aunt to stop her behavior? That makes no sense in this time period.

Ok-that's enough time wasted on this book. Since I actually went to the trouble of finishing it, I'll give it 2.5 stars, but that's being generous.

Laura's Buck Stops Here Challenge

2011-01-07T07:35:00.007-06:00

Here's the posts for the review of books I read for this challenge.

2011 The Buck Stops Here Challenge

January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

I've always been thrifty-what some might call cheap :).

I love to use my bargain detecting skills when it comes to books. Some of my most beloved books actually cost me mere cents to nothing to purchase. I love Library Sales, Thrift Shops and Garage Sales. I've received bargains from swapping sites like www.paperbackswap.com or some small town Used Book Stores. And now with the plethora of cheap to FREE bargain books on my e-reader? Forget about it-I'm in book Heaven! LOL

The Rules:

Read, review (optional) and post where you found your bargain book. The book can be paper or ebook, it can be FREE or cost you up to ONE DOLLARmaximum. No loaned books-the book must be yours even if it was a freebie.

Level one -3 bargain books

Level two-6 bargain books

Level three-10 bargain books

*Bonus! Level four "proud cheapskate"-52 bargain books!*

(those who complete this level will receive a nifty "Proud Cheapskate" blog award from me to post on their blog)

Books can be posted in other challenges and both bloggers and non bloggers welcome. Any and all genres welcome as well.

I'm going for Level FOUR!

My List:

1-Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist-4 stars-DONE (paid 20 cents at a Goodwill Sale)
2-The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin-2.5 stars-DONE (paid $1 on ebay)
3-The Apple Tree Girl by George Weston-4 stars-DONE (paid ZERO-free public domain book)
4-The Oak Staircase by Mary Lee-4 stars-DONE(paid ZERO-free public domain book)
5-Winter Blossom by Cynthia Sinclair-4 stars-DONE( paid 20 cents at Goodwill)
6-A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas-3 stars-DONE( paid 99 cents at Goodwill)

7-The Would Be Witch by Rita Boucher-4.5 stars ($1 on ebay)
8-Lord of Illusions by Rita Boucher-4.5 stars ($1 on ebay)
9-The Lost Heiress of Hawkscliffe by Joyce C. Ware-3 stars (49 cents at Goodwill)
10-The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brocmann-5 stars (49 cents at Goodwill)
11-Lady Delafont's Dilemma by Donna Simpson ($1 on ebay)
12-Lady May's Folly by Donna Simpson (49 cents at Goodwill)

Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist

2011-01-07T07:11:00.003-06:00

Read For:

ROR Winter Challenge

Buck Stops Here Challenge (paid 20 Cents at Goodwill sale)

Reading My Shelves Project
Pick Your Poison Challenge
My Bucket List Challenge

I love the cover!

Synopsis:
Tired of Waiting for a Match-Made-in-Heaven, She'll Settle for One Made in Texas Whether it's riding bikes, catching snakes, or sliding down banisters, Essie Spreckelmeyer just can't quite make herself into the ideal woman her hometown--and her mother--expect her to be. It's going to take an extraordinary man to appreciate her joy and spontaneity--or so says her doting oil-man father. Unfortunately such a man doesn't appear to reside in Corsicana, Texas. It's 1894, the year of Essie's thirtieth birthday, and she decides the Lord has more important things to do than provide her a husband. If she wants one, she needs to catch him herself. So, she writes down the names of all the eligible bachelors in her small Texas town, makes a list of their attributes and drawbacks, closes her eyes, twirls her finger, and ... picks one. But convincing the lucky "husband-to-be" is going to a bit more of a problem. Join Deeanne Gist for another unforgettable tale and find out whether Essie's plan to catch a husband succeeds or if she's just Courting Trouble.

My Review:
This is the first "Christian romance" I've ever finished (only tried one other and it was not good).

This book was a delightful, enjoyable story that was written so that anyone, avid Christian, or just someone looking for a good story, will enjoy it. I loved the message of this story, that you need to love yourself, and not change yourself just to find a love that will only "accept" you if you mold yourself into THEIR idea of perfection.

Dare I say it, this Christian book has some very forward thinking ideas on Woman's Rights as well as naysaying the idea that a unmarried woman who had "relations" being "soiled goods"! Good for Miss Gist! I find it amusing that some of the other, more Christian readers reviews on Shelfari, had issue with Essie's one "fall from grace" and the "love scenes" (which were TAME in comparison to traditional romances!). Isn't the whole thing about being a Christian is forgiveness?

As to the Christian aspects-they were tastefully done, not "preachy" and did not have the character getting trod upon in the name of Christianity (which is what happened in the other book I tried). I liked that the message that you can do many "good works"-like some of the "church ladies and gents" in the book-but if you are still a judgmental and gossipy fart that spreads vicious rumors about others, you are not as "Christian" as you might think :).

I loved the lead character and the townsfolk and I'll be seeking out the next book, Deep In The Heart of Trouble, to read about Essie's next adventures.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-06T15:51:00.001-06:00

My first Wordless Wednesday!

The Stylish Book Blogger Award

2011-01-06T15:17:00.001-06:00

I was awarded this by A Universe In Words-who has a great blog too!

You have to do these 4 things to get the award:

Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award
Share 7 things about yourself
Award 10 recently discovered great bloggers
Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

7 Things about Myself:

1-I'm the youngest of five girls.
2-I've always considered myself a proud nerd, collected Comics and met my husband at the Comic Book Store.
3-I'm an avid Anglophile, I love everything English-books, period films and modern film. My favorite era is Regency set in England.
4-I've always been an avid animal lover though I never had a cat until I was an adult.
5-I love crafts, though since I've started working I do more daydreaming about crafting than actually doing anything. I hope to change that this year.
6-I love knowledge-be it trivial, historical, or vital.
7-Avid thrift shopper. My most frequent purchases are-books (of course) quirky vintage stuff, fabric, clothes (why pay full price?) and stuff from different countries.

Ten new blogs (plus 2):
1-The Phantam Paragrapher

2-Just One More Paragraph

3-All That Glistens Is Not Old

4-The Children's War

5-Just One More Page...

6-Whatever and Other Stuff

7-Mommy Wants To Read

8-Reading 2011-Anja's New Blog

9-Flora, Fauna, Fur, and Fiber

10-A Book Lover

11-One Book Per Week

12-Wine And Coffee

Unfinished-Impossible Dreams by Patricia Rice

2011-01-05T00:53:00.003-06:00

Synopsis:
Although home is a dusty curiosity shop filled with rainbows and crystal balls, Maya Alyssum's past has not been filled with good fortune. Her impossible dream is to open a school where kids can find unconditional love and acceptance, the very things she never had as a child. The town council of Wadeville, North Carolina, is determined to stop her -- until the day Axell Holm walks into her shop.

Axell knows trouble when he sees it -- and Maya Alyssum is definitely trouble. But he needs the ethereal schoolteacher and the magic she works on his motherless daughter. He's willing to face the wrath of his hometown to get what he wants, but he's unprepared for his reaction to this strange and wonderful woman who turns his ordered life upside down, making him believe in dreams again....

My review:
I'm sure this is a nice enough book for someone else.Frankly, it was just too unoriginal for me. I've seen this storyline too much lately- the "ditzy, "New Age" free spirit chick and the "uptight" conservative dude. But of course, as soon as the heroine meets the hero- she cannot seem to function in life without him and must be "rescued" by the big strong guy-this supposedly from a character who has a masters in education and has fought her way up from being a child of the foster care system? It gets tiresome.

After repeatedly falling asleep trying to read this, I quit 70 pages in. The names are also laughably cliche'- Maya (New Age) Alyssum (a flower for flower child of course) and Axell Holm-Axell? are you kidding me? Like the Axell of a car or Axel Rose huh? LOL. I guess the big strong man has to have a big strong name right? Excuse me while I vomit. Here's a question Romance writers-what the heck is wrong with regular names?

I've read another book by this author that I loved (The Marquess) so I'll definitely try her again as I know she can do better than this one.

My Book Bucket List for 2011

2011-01-02T09:26:00.006-06:00

http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/2010/12/my-book-bucket-list-for-2011.html

I'm really liking the idea of this challenge but I'm going to "tweak" it a bit for my needs.

My dresser in my bedroom is covered literally with several hundred books! I'm going to make my "bucket list" for this challenge 50 of those. My only rule is-no go backs! If I start to read one and it doesn't grab me, it goes in the get rid of box, not back on top of the dresser. I want those 50 books G-O-N-E one way or another by 12/2011 :)

The rules:
I have MANY books on my shelves that I have not read. "Too many books, too little time." Maybe what I need to do is prioritize my reading.

I have decided that for 2011, I will read 50 of the books that have been sitting on my "to read" shelf for too long, some for three years or more.

I read at least two books a week, so it should be no problem, right? I will remind myself of that when the end of 2011 comes, and see how many I may try to cram in at the last minute. My problem when it comes to reading is , my intentions are good, but I am easily distracted. There are so many books that I find and want to read, and some great books are moved farther on the back burner.

I am going to keep a list in my sidebar for the year, as I read them I will cross them off, that way there will always be a reminder for me when I get on my blog. It won't become buried under all of my posts and forgotten.

My List:

1-The carolinians by Jane Barry
~~2-A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas~~
3-The White Witch of Rosehall by Herbert G.de Lisser
4-Killer Takes All by Erica Spindler
5-The Charmed Sphere by Cathrine Asaro
6-The Glass Slipper by Linda O. Johnston
7-Barbara Cartland: Three Complete Novels by Barbara Cartland
8-French Leave by Sheri Cobb South
9-Thornfield Hall by Emma Tenant
10-Soft Focus by Jayne AnnKrentz
11-Caroline and Julia by Clare Darcy
12-Blue Heaven, Black Night by Shannon Drake
13-suspicious by nora roberts
14-Guardian of Honor by Robin D. Owens
15-the rope dancer by Roberta Gellis
16-The code of love cheryl sawyer
17-molly by teresa crane
~~18-the sicilian amulet by jo manning~~
19-the jeweled daughter by Anne Maybury
20-Emma Hamilton by Norah Lofts
21-a singular hostage by Thalassa Ali
22-pride prejudice and jasmin field by Melissa Nathan
23-Circle of Death by Keri Arthur
24-Love Came Just In Time by Lynn Kurland
25-Wizard's Ward by Deborah Hale
26-Olivia Joules and The Overactive Imagination by Helen Fielding
27-the secret life of bees by Sue Monk Kidd
28-A Witch's Lament by Catherine Anne Collins
~~29-daneclere by Pamela Hill~~
30-Beatrice Goes To Brighton by Marion Chesney
31-Fancy Pants by Cathy Marie Hake
~~32-Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist~~
33-The Art of Arrow Cutting by Stephen Dedman
34-Hunter's Moon by Karen Robards
35-Moon Shadow by Laura Parker
36-The Day of The Butterfly by Norah Lofts
37-Ratcatcher by James McGee
38-Resurrectionist by James McGee
39-Danger Zone by Shirley Palmer
40-The Flowering by Agnes Sligh Turnbull
41-poison study maria v. snyder
42-Pride and Prescience by Carrie Bebris
43-Smuggler's Summer by Carola Dunn
44-Firedrake's Eye by Patricia Finney
45-the fifteen streets by Catherine Cookson
46-Lady Robyn R. Garcia y Robertson
47-Charity Girl By Georgette Heyer
48-Let There Be Blood by Jane Jakeman
49-Feathers In The Fire by Catherine Cookson
50-The Blackstone Key by Rose Melikan

Red line=tried but quit it
Black line=finished

Christmas Beau by Mary Balogh

2011-01-02T06:53:00.003-06:00

Christmas Promise by Mary Balogh, 1991, Regency Romance

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

2011 Reading from My Shelves Project

2011 The Buck Stops Here Challenge

Synopsis:
His Vengeance Was Sweet

Judith Easton knew that even the spirit of Christmas wouldn't stop the Marquess of Denhigh from settling the score with her. For the beautiful young widow had injured Denhigh's rigid pride years ago by jilting him for another man.

Now that Judith was free from her nightmare marriage to that other man, the bold and handsome Marquess made no secret that he had her in his sights and wanted her in his arms.

But how could she trust the tender words on his lips when she could sense the hardness of his heart? And after she had made so grievous a mistake in love once, how could she ever trust her own heart's desire again?

My Review:

Christmas Beau is one of Balogh's earlier Regencies with a storyline that normally I dislike: the "revenge" or "enemies" storyline. But, since I had to read a "enemies" storyline for the ROR Challenge, and I already owned this book (a thrift shop score from several years back-a whole 10 cents!) I thought I'd give it a whirl.

Christmas Beau started out slow for me-while the characters are in London the story is very unemotional and frankly, both characters were for the most part unlikable. But then they go to the Marquess' Christmas house party at his estate and the storyline suddenly blossomed.

All of Balogh's hallmarks are here-internal conflict, passion, vibrant, three dimensional secondary characters that have their own wonderful storyline, and lot's and lot's of conflict with seemingly no resolution. Max is a terrific hero-a very jaded, dark, brooding man who's lust for revenge of Judith has overpowered his life for eight long years. Now that Judith is a widow with two small children, his vengeance is at hand, or is it?

Judith's spinster sister in law Amy is just lovely and her own story is enough for me to recommend this book. But Judith and Max's story is so very moving and motional-I'll admit that I pretty much cried the last 50 pages of the book:)

A five star book and one of my favorite Balogh's-highly recommended!

2011 Forgotten Treasures Challenge REVIEWS

2011-01-01T17:31:00.000-06:00

For Bloggers: Please post the link to your review through Mr Linky below.

Fon Non-Bloggers: Please post your review or comments on the book read in the comments below.

Thanks for Participating!

2011 Forgotten Treasures Challenge

2011-01-01T17:20:00.003-06:00

January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

This challenge, for me, ties in with my other two challenges- Public Domain Challenge and The Buck Stops Here Challenge. Whether it's a free public Domain book, or perhaps a fun and funky looking old 70's Gothic I picked up for a quarter at the Goodwill-I have a deep respect for older books.

The stories are great, and it's interesting to research a older book or author after you find and read a "forgotten treasure". That 50's author you have never heard of might just have been the Grisham or King of their time, and deserve to be read again in modern day. Whether it's a hundred year old classic or a 40 year old novel-older books are well worth reading.

The goal of this challenge is to read and review (or just share a few thoughts on the book) books that are 25 years old or older. Please join me for this challenge. Let's discover some buried book treasures together.

The Rules:

Open to all-bloggers and non bloggers alike.

Open to all books-bought, loaned or ones you already own. The only rule is on AGE. The books printing date must be at least 25 years old- 1986 or older please.

Level one- read 3 books 25+ years old or older

Level two-read 7 books 25+ years old or older

Bonus* Level three-read 25 books 25+ years old or older

(all those who complete Level three will receive a nifty "Vintage Book Fan" award to post on their blog)

Post Reviews here.

Sign up below:

2011 The Buck Stops Here Challenge REVIEWS

2011-01-01T16:25:00.000-06:00

For Bloggers: Please post your link to your book review through the Mr. Linky widget below.

For Non Bloggers: Please post your review in the comment section below

Thanks for Participating!

2011 The Buck Stops Here Challenge

2011-01-01T15:59:00.005-06:00

January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

I've always been thrifty-what some might call cheap :).

I love to use my bargain detecting skills when it comes to books. Some of my most beloved books actually cost me mere cents to nothing to purchase. I love Library Sales, Thrift Shops and Garage Sales. I've received bargains from swapping sites like www.paperbackswap.com or some small town Used Book Stores. And now with the plethora of cheap to FREE bargain books on my e-reader? Forget about it-I'm in book Heaven! LOL

If you share my affliction for literature for less then this is the challenge for you. What fantastic books have you purchased for (up to) a mere dollar? Was the book worth it's weight in gold or not worth a plugged nickel?

The Rules:

Read, review (optional) and post where you found your bargain book. The book can be paper or ebook, it can be FREE or cost you up to ONE DOLLAR maximum. No loaned books-the book must be yours even if it was a freebie.

2011 Buck Stops Here Challenge Reviews HERE

2011 Public Domain E-book Challenge-REVIEWS

2011-01-01T11:52:00.000-06:00

For Bloggers: please use Mr Linky to post the link to your review (either individual review or your thread for the entire challenge-your choice)

Non-Bloggers: add your reviews to the comments section below.

Thanks for participating!

2011 Public Domain E-book Challenge

2011-01-01T10:41:00.013-06:00

January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

(This is the first challenge I've ever hosted so please bear with me if I make any errors-any help/suggestions appreciated)

I received a Nook about 6 months ago and I love it. My favorite thing is discovering new (to me) book offerings under the various sites that promote their organization's scanning and saving of these otherwise vanishing books once they hit the "public domain". All of these books are FREE-a bonus to a thrifty reader.

A few sites with public domain books (there is lots of overlap between the sites):

Google Books-

to find the public domain books, search for a book under any subject, after the items come up, click "full view" on the left hand side of the page (these are the free books).

The Internet Archive-
Search under "Texts" header.

Manybooks.net-
Very "newbie" ereader friendly.
Note: after so many downloads they do have a non offensive "if you'd like to help please donate" pop up-that is up to you. (I'm in no way affiliated with this site.)

Project Gutenberg-
the site that started it all.

Project Gutenberg Australia

www.classicreader.com-

this site has almost 4000 public domain books that you can read on site-no downloading or ereader required:) (thanks Mommy Wants to Read)

The one problem I saw was that many or even most of these books-there is little to no information of what they are about, or even reviews to let others know what they are about. But, that's part of the fun!

I feel it behooves us as the reading community to help these volunteers "save" these books-simply by giving them "press". Read them, review them, and by doing so, get the word out to other readers about these undiscovered gems.

The Rules:

1-Pick a level of participation for the year:

"newbie"level-read and review 3 public domain books (non bloggers will just post reviews in the reviews comments page)

"advanced" level-read and review 6 public domain books (non bloggers will just post reviews in the reviews comments page)

That's about it-easy peasey:) You pick the book, genre, length, etc. Readers who don't own a e-reader are welcome as well (e-reader apps on phones, etc or just read on your PC). You can cross this over with other challenges as well.

After you read the book, just come back and either post the actual review or the link to the review on the review post below:

2011 DOMAIN CHALLENGE REVIEWS HERE

Use Mr. Linky below to sign up below or sign up in the comments for non-bloggers.

Thanks and let's have fun with this!

SIGN UP BELOW:

2011 Challenges I'm Participating In

2011-01-01T04:55:00.007-06:00

1-Paging All Bookworms Challenge (hosted by my husband, Nighthawk on Shelfari)

Goal: same as last year 20,000 pages

current total-zero

2-Gothic Reading Challenge

Goal: 20 books

current total-zero

3-Pick Your Poison Reading Challenge

Goal: 4 books in 4 categories=16 books

current total-zero

5-What's In A Name 4 Challenge

Goal: 6 books

current total-zero

6-2011 Contemporary Romance Reading Challenge

Goal: 10 books
current total-zero

7-Thousand Regency Challenge (ongoing)
Goal: 1000 traditional Regency Romances
current total-23

8-2011 Reading From My Shelves Project

Goal: 70 books
current total-zero

9-ROR Seasonal Romance Challenges (4 per year)

Goal: 15 books (Winter Challenge)
current total-8

Pick Your Poison Reading Challenge

2011-01-01T04:39:00.006-06:00

This one sounds like a lot of fun so I'm going to give it a go. I'm picking "Nightshade" level-4 books in each category. My four sub genres are:

1-Sci Fi or Fantasy books set in one of the past time periods-maybe Steampunk, but maybe set in another time period.

2-Traditional Regency Romances with Supernatural/ Paranormal element to it.
   1-DONE-The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin-2.5 stars
   2-DONE-The Would-be Witch by Rita Boucher-4.0 stars
   3-DONE-Lord Of Illusions by Rita Boucher-4.0 stars

3-Books with "headless" cover art-either all or part of the head is cut off the cover.
  1-DONE-Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist-4 stars
  2-DONE-A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas-3 stars
  3-DONE-A Countess by Christmas by Annie Burrows-4.5 stars

4-Romance books where either the hero or heroine is a scientist

Sign up HERE:

This challenge was created with the encouragement of TheCoolMom and Guitarzan, to create my own when I couldn't find a reading challenge for some of my kookier sub-genre. So here is to you steampunk loving readers, the cat mystery readers or the supernatural warfare novel enthusiasts. In this you get to create your own challenge by deciding if you want to read books only about Dragons or if you want to read those obscure fantasy books you were looking at. Mix and match to make your perfect combo. You can have Steampunk and obscure fantasy or even Serial Killer mysteries, Historical Romance, the point is you get to choose.

There are four levels of Pick Your Poison:

Hemlock- You read 1 book of each of your categories

Nightshade- 4 books of each of your categories

Foxglove- 6 books of each of your categories

Monkshood- 12+ books in each of your categories

Challenge begins January 1, 2011 and lasts until December 31, 2011. You can join at anytime you want. When you sign up under Mr. Linky, put the direct link to your post about the Pick Your Poison Reading Challenge. Include the URL so that other participants can join in. You can list your books in advance and if you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you. Sorry that I didn't have a button or anything for you to post as a picture, I may be able to get one up later.

If you do not have a blog, comment with what level and what your category is.

Have fun readers!!!

2011 Reading from My Shelves Project

2010-12-31T09:54:00.010-06:00

Join HERE:
Since it appears that the RYOB Challenge I used for my "Ginormous TBR Mountain" is no longer being hosted-I searched for another, similar challenge and this one fits the bill.

My goal was 100 the first year, 70 the second year-but I only made it to 57 in 2009 and 52 in 2010. Still, I'm going to try for 70 again this year and really try to clean off those shelves.

Challenge runs from January 1 - December 31, 2011.
Read books from your own shelves, and then pass the books on to someone else: a friend, relative, the library, used book store, swap them, just as long as the book leaves your house once it has been read.
Decide on your goal (12 is the minimum - no maximum). Cross over books are allowed.
Grab the button and do a post about the challenge.
Keep a running list of the books you've read and passed on.
Leave a comment with a link to your post and you are entered (no Mr. Linky).
Have Fun and GOOD LUCK!

1-Christmas Beau by Mary Balogh-5 stars
2-Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist-4 stars
3-The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin-2.5 stars
4-The Apple Tree Girl by George Weston-4 stars
5-The Oak Staircase by Mary Lee-5 stars
6-Winter Blossom by Cynthia Sinclair-4 stars
7-A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas-3 stars
8-A Countess by Christmas by Annie Burrows 4.5 stars
9-The Would-be Witch by Rita Boucher 4.0 stars
10-Lord of Illusions by Rita Boucher 4.0 stars
11-The Lost Heiress of Hawkscliffe by Joyce C. Ware-3 stars
12-The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann-5 stars
13-Lady Delafont's Dilemma by Donna Simpson-5 stars
14-Lady May's Folly by Donna Simpson-5 stars
15-Lord Rivington's Lady by Eileen Jackson-4 stars

2011 Contemporary Romance Reading Challenge

2010-12-31T09:33:00.001-06:00

I'm joining this challenge as this one will actually BE a challenge for me as I read very little straight contemporaries...but I do own several hundred of them to choose from-LOL.

Want to join? Go HERE

Details –

1. By contemporary romance I mean straight contemporary, so without paranormal, fantasy or time-travel elements. Sexy, steamy contemporaries are eligible and so are category romances. (i.e. Harlequin Blaze, Harlequin Presents, Harlequin Super Romances, Silhoutte Desires, etc.)

2. Read at least 10 contemporaries between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011

3. You don’t have to pre-select your books, you can just add them as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed. Nothing is set in stone! Also, the books you choose can crossover into or from other challenges you are participating in.

4. Feel free to grab the button below for the sidebar of your blog. It would be great if you would link it back to this post so others can find their way back to this post and join the challenge.

5. If you decide to join this challenge be sure to create a post telling others and feel free to add a link back to this post so others can join in the fun.

Have fun & Happy Reading!!

My list:

1-The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann-5 stars

10-

The Warrior's Forbidden Virgin by Michelle Willingham

2010-12-28T06:50:00.000-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge

Synopsis:Sir Ademar of Dolwyth does not think beautiful Lady Katherine of Ardennes would ever consider him for her husband--especially since she is in love with someone else! But when Katherine's heart is broken, Ademar is there to offer her comfort...and passion. For though the Norman knight cannot tell Katherine how he feels, he can show her without using any words at all....

My Review:
An ebook in Harlequin's "Undone!" series, this is a short story or novella of about 40 pages. My first Michelle Willingham, this was an enjoyable and very hot story. I liked the two leads and would have actually liked to see them in their own longer book. 4 stars!

Unfinished-Sweet Sarah Ross by Julie Tetel

2010-12-27T19:08:00.002-06:00

Read for:
Harlequin/Silhouette Reading Challenge

Synopsis:
THEIR MUTUAL ATTRACTION WAS INFINITELY TEMPTING AND UTTERLY IMPOSSIBLE!
Sarah knew that a proper Baltimore miss shouldn't even glance at a man who had lost all his clothes, but the barefaced truth was that this man appeared to be the only thing standing between her and disaster.
Sarah Ross Harris was a beautiful idiot, Wes Powell reasoned. Who else would argue with a buck-naked stranger while fleeing an Indian attack? How on earth would the two of them ever survive the dangers that lay ahead, let alone the fire that burned between them?

My review:
there's name's for women like the "heroine"- selfish, self centered, bratty, and bitchy. When I finally had to add "c@ck tease" to that list of names, I couldn't take anymore. The "hero" was no better-constantly calling the heroine an idiot and was a notorious womanizer. Who would have known from the pretty cover that we'd have two such unlikeable characters? I kept hoping for some redeeming qualities to emerge, but finally gave it up three fourths through. Not recommended.

What's In A Name Challenge 4

2010-12-26T04:26:00.002-06:00

I've done this challenge for a couple of years now, and it's always fun. To join go HERE:

Here's How It Works

Between January 1 and December 31, 2011, read one book in each of the following categories:

A book with a number in the title: First to Die, Seven Up, Thirteen Reasons Why
A book with jewelry or a gem in the title: Diamond Ruby, Girl with a Pearl Earring, The Opal Deception-DONE-The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin-2.5 stars.
A book with a size in the title: Wide Sargasso Sea, Small Wars, Little Bee
A book with travel or movement in the title: Dead Witch Walking, Crawling with Zombies, Time Traveler's Wife
A book with evil in the title: Bad Marie, Fallen, Wicked Lovely
A book with a life stage in the title: No Country for Old Men, Brideshead Revisited, Bog Child

The book titles are just suggestions, you can read whatever book you want to fit the category.

Other Things to Know

Books may be any form (audio, print, e-book).
Books may overlap other challenges.
Books may not overlap categories; you need a different book for each category.
Creativity for matching the categories is not only allowed but encouraged.
You do not have to make a list of books before hand.
You do not have to read through the categories in any particular order.

Gothic Reading Challenge 2011

2010-12-26T03:21:00.003-06:00

I'm definitely doing this challenge as I love vintage Gothics! I'm in for reading 20 of them this year. To join go HERE

There is nothing better than a great Gothic read - crumbling old castles, mysterious legends, shadowy characters, supernatural beings and unexplainable events, make for some of the most haunting and captivating reading imaginable.

There are four levels of participation to choose from:

A Little Madness - Read just 1 novel with Gothic elements.

The Darkness Within - Read 5 novels with Gothic elements.

A Maniacal Frenzy - Read 10 novels with Gothic elements.

Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to Know - Read 20 novels with Gothic elements

1-The Lost Heiress of Hawkscliffe by Joyce C. Ware-3 stars
2-
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Unfinished-Stormwalker by Allyson James

2010-12-22T01:07:00.001-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
RYOB Challenge
Fantasy Challenge

Synopsis:
Janet Begay is a Stormwalker, capable of wielding the raw elemental power of nature, a power that threatens to overwhelm her. Only her lover, Mick, is able to calm the storm within her-even as their passion reaches unimaginable heights of ecstasy.

But when an Arizona police chief's daughter is taken by a paranormal evil, they find themselves venturing where no human can survive-for only together can they overcome the greatest danger they've ever faced.

My review:

I read, or tried to read Stormwalker by Allyson James (Jennifer Ashley). I quit this book halfway in-very disappointing as I normally like this authors works. In a word, there was nothing original about this story.

The same old "supposedly uber tough Harley riding heroine who, of course, must constantly be rescued by the mysterious, uber hot, alpha, ancient hero, who the heroine knows little about, but still manages to end up in bed with every few pages" UGH-the overproduction of paranormal romance/urban fantasy these last few years has, in my opinion, lead to an overproduction of formulaic tripe.
How about a heroine who is strong but drives a regular car, holds down a regular job, and whose wardrobe consists of something besides skin tight leather maybe?

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T13:01:00.000-06:00

Christmas Wishes by Barbara Metzger

2010-12-19T10:38:00.001-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
SHE MADE A CHRISTMAS WISH FOR A CHARMING CAVALIER--AND MET THE MOST NOTORIOUS RAKE IN ENGLAND!

Though granddaughter to one of the ancient regime, Juneclaire Beaumont lived without complaint as a poor relation at Stanton Hall -- until a family crisis sent her packing. But the road to London was not smooth, and she was compelled to take shelter in a stable with a handsome, scowling stranger whose curricle had been held up. A delicate situation, although he behaved in a most gentlemanly fashion.

The ton, however, would never believe it of the lordly rakehell Satan St. Cloud! He would preserve this madcap beauty's reputation.... Damn it, for once duty would be pleasure!

But Juneclaire declined marriage solely for honor. She disappeared, leaving the imperious Earl of St. Cloud to spend the twelve days of Christmas on a neck-or-nothing ride to find her....

My Review:
charming and funny Regency romance- with a "poor relation" storyline. 4 stars!

Teller of Tales by Laurel Ames

2010-12-17T02:53:00.000-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
A GAME WITHOUT RULES
All of London knew Lord Raines as a charming rake and a veteran of the Napoleonic Wars who was no stranger to lush pleasures. Yet the disenchanted nobleman soon discovered that Jenner Page was more blatantly honest in her passions than anyone he had ever known.
With boyish garb hiding her shattered past and shielding her against the future, Jenner Page had more freedom than most women could ever imagine --- and more loneliness than most could endure. Until the night the infamous Lacey Raines drew her into an outrageous life of impossible love . . .

My review:
While I give this author bonus props for using a rarely used storyline (girl in boy's garb),and trying to boldly use said storyline throughout the entire book, there was something "missing" in this book and I believe it was heart. The hero and heroine were very dysfunctional,"damaged" characters-which is normally a good building block to a fantastic story. Sadly, in this case, the two leads were to self centered in their own needs to ever "grow" from their damage.

Finally, while it was also bold for the author to introduce a serious topic-rape-into the storyline, again it was too cavilerly done, and never really satisfactorily dealt with between any of the characters. Also, the author introduces a incident in the hero's background that almost put me off the book, and if it would have been introduced earlier in the story, I would have quit the book but I was already more than halfway through so I plodded on, though I could not enjoy the "hero" after this relevation. More shocking was how the heroine received this news, knowing she was an assault victim herself. It left a bad impression on the reader, to be sure.

While the author's writing style is good enough that I'll try another of her books, I do not recommend this one.
2.5 stars.

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie

2010-12-15T06:18:00.002-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
Beth Ackerley knows Lord Ian Mackenzie is mad. Only a madman would give a woman he had never met before a letter warning her not to wed her fiancé and then propose to her. Beth knows Ian is bad for her. One kiss from Ian, and Beth is prepared to give up her quiet new life as a widow and indulge in a scandalous affair with the sexy Scottish nobleman. But Beth knows that Ian is not dangerous. Even if everyone else in society might believe he is connected to the murder of two different women, Beth believes Ian is innocent, even if it means risking her life to prove her faith in him.

My Review:
I really like Jennifer Ashley. I've read several of her books, under Jennifer Ashley, and her other psuedonyms, and have enjoyed them. I liked this book except for the amount of "relating" to each other the hero and heroine do via their sexual encounters. It seemed like the entire story was about the hero hiding the heroine away and having sex with her. I would have enjoyed learning more about their relationship outside the bedroom, their characters and the secondary characters. In my opinion, having any book filled with sex scenes as "filler" is the lazy writers out, and is disappointing because I know this author can do better.

That being said, I still enjoyed this book enough to give it four stars, but not five for missed opportunities. I'm still looking forward to reading the other characters stories though.

Lady Jane by Norma Lee Clark

2010-12-10T07:02:00.000-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
IN A FEW SHORT YEARS THE LITTLE BACKSTAIRS MAID HAD BECOME A MOTHER, A WIDOW, AND AN HEIRESS TO A STAGGERING FORTUNE...

With her bright, sherry-brown eyes and her dazzling smile, little Jane Coombes was irresistible to men. This was her downfall. It caused her to lose her position as a maid in the prestigious household of the Montmorencys. It thrust her alone into the cold, cruel world.

But fortune gazed kindly on Jane. She was taken into the household of a gracious and forgiving woman whose son fell in love with Jane. She married him.

A few years later both son and mother died, and Jane was left not only with a fortune, but a title as well, Lady Payton.

Now these become the weapons which little Jane Coombes will use to avenge herself on a world that had tried to destroy her.

My Review:
A very unusual Regency about a young maid, who through an extraordinary set of horrific but then wonderful circumstances, becomes a widowed Baroness. Story deals with some tough issues like rape, unwanted pregnancy, disabilities, and violence. Also, this book is much more explicit than most traditional Regencies, but I didn't consider it offensive.

I'll be reading more from this author. 5 stars.

Enchanting Jenny by Zabrina Faire

2010-12-07T16:24:00.000-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
RYOB Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

Synopsis:
Fate decreed that Jenny must become the Comtesse de la Garde, but even the power of Fate could not make her love the Comte... Jenny said "No!" But everyone else insisted that this was the right marriage for Jenny. The Comte was the scion of a noble family, said Jenny's mother, pointing out that both Jenny's sisters' chances would improve when she became the Comtesse. The Comte agreed because his mother's secret plan to use Jenny's inheritance was irresistible. Even Jenny's clairvoyant grandmother declared it had to be... Only Jenny herself was opposed to the match. Only Jenny and the Comte's half-brother who viewed the marriage of convenience -- and Jenny -- with contempt.

My review:
second book I've read by this author. Was fairly good but not as good as this author's Lady Blue. These 70's Regencies are very "old school"-high drama, wilting females and machismo males, and nasty villains. 3 stars.

The Christmas Promise by Mary Balogh

2010-12-07T15:35:00.000-06:00

Read For:
ROR Winter Challenge
RYOB Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

Synopsis:
Although her father is determined that she marry a nobleman, Eleanor Transome, who thinks she loves the humble Mr. Wilfred, is forced instead to become betrothed to Lord Randolph Falloden, a man on the brink of ruin.

My Review:
Was an "average" Mary Balogh-which means it was better than most other authors but not one of her best. It was still very good though and had me misting up at the end:) 4 stars.

ROR Winter 2011 Challenge

2010-12-01T01:03:00.022-06:00

Finished: 14 out of 15 completed

Winter '11 Challenge List

It's that time again! Here is your list for the Winter ‘11 (December, January and February) Reading Challenge! (December 1-February 28)

RULES:

1. Select ANY number of books to read that fit the category.

2. Post your list on the discussion board and blog (Name’s Winter 11 Challenge List)

3. If you need title suggestions please use the Discussion titled WINTER TITLE SUGGESTIONS if you don't see it please search (to try and minimize number of discussions)

4. Once you have read a book please find the corresponding discussion by searching you can search by 11 Winter # and use the number that corresponds with the list. (one will be created for each number on December 1, again, to try and minimize number of discussions) and post the book and title you read and rating, and review.

5. It is not required, but if you could post your review on the blog that would be great.

6. Reviews on the blog please include labels list the rating, author, and # of challenge only.

7. Audio books are okay

8. Rereads are okay

9. You can change your list at anytime

THE CHALLENGE:

1. Reader’s Choice-DONE-Christmas Wishes by Barbara Metzger-4 stars

2. Reader’s Choice-DONE-Courting Trouble by Deeanne Gist-4 stars

3. Reader’s Choice-DONE-Winter Blossom by Cynthia Sinclair-4 stars

4. Read a book by an author you’ve been wanting to try, but haven’t yet-DONE-Lady Jane by Norma Lee Clark-5 stars

5. Choose a cover with a headless model-DONE-The Warrior's Forbidden Virgin by Michelle Willingham-4 stars

6. Read an Enemy story http://likesbooks.com/enemy.html-DONE-Christmas Beau by Mary Balogh-5 stars

7. Read a book by Jill Shalvis or Nancy Warren-

8. For MLK Day: Read a Title with 'Dream' in it-DONE-Surrender A Dream by Jill Barnett-1 star

9. A book where one of the main characters has a weird/uncommon name.-DONE-Teller of Tales by Laurel Ames-2.5 stars

10. Read a Christmas themed book OR an author that first or last name begins with C -DONE-The Christmas Promise by Mary Balogh-4 stars.

11. Read a book that has 2 words in the title-DONE-Enchanting Jenny by Zabrina Faire-3 stars

12. Read a book by picking one off your Shelfari’s friends shelf (and list who you got it from to make it fun!)-DONE-The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley-4 stars

13. Read an American Indian themed book http://likesbooks.com/native.html-DONE-Stormwalker by Allyson James-1 star

14. Read a book that has been on your shelf for a while (Out with the Old!)-DONE-The Ruby Ghost by June Calvin-2.5 stars

15. Read a book that was published in 2011 -or Dec of 2010 (In with the New!)

The Courtship of Izzy McCree by Ruth Langan

2010-10-25T01:05:00.000-05:00

Read For:
Fall Reading Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
The Way To A Woman's Heart...
Isabella McCree wanted to be loved. So she traded her lonely Eastern existence for life in a mountain cabin w/ her rugged mail-order husband and his brood. But could she ever put her haunting secrets behind her and become a "real" wife?
Between raising four children and training wild stallions, Matt Prescott had no idea how to court a woman again. Especially not a shy beauty like Isabella. Yet when he looked into her blue-green eyes he saw strength--as well as pain that mirrored his own--and knew he'd somehow find the way to her heart.

My Review:

I like Langan's books-this one was a good one if you like sweet, family orientated stories. Isabella, the heroine, is disabled, an answers a letter from a man looking for a wife and mom to his four children. So she sells off everything she owns to go and marry him-but finds many surprises once she's there.

3.5 stars-a pretty good book.

ROR Fall '10 Challenge

2010-10-18T14:50:00.002-05:00

Off to a slow start this time, as I'm now WORKING :).

Fall '10 Challenge List

It's that time again! Here is your list for the Fall '10 (September, October and November) Reading Challenge!

RULES:
1. Select ANY number of books to read that fit the category.
2. Post your list on the discussion board and blog (Name’s Fall 10 Challenge List)
3. If you need title suggestions please use the Discussion titled FALL TITLE SUGGESTIONS if you don't see it please search (to try and minimize number of discussions)
4. Once you have read a book please find the corresponding discussion by searching you can search by 10 Fall # and use the number that corresponds with the list. (one will be created for each number on December 1, again, to try and minimize number of discussions) and post the book and title you read and rating, and review.
5. It is not required, but if you could post your review on the blog that would be great.
6. Reviews on the blog please include labels list the rating, author, and # of challenge only.
7. Audio books are okay
8. Rereads are okay
9. You can change your list at anytime

THE CHALLENGE:
1. Comfort Read. (could be reread a favorite, revisit a favorite author, a beloved genre Your Mac-n-Cheese read)

2. Spooky Book for Halloween (could be paranormal in nature, or ghost story type theme, or spooky setting)-DONE-Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews-4 stars

3. Read a book with an animal on the cover. (doesn’t have to be the main character on the cover, but a animal somewhere on the cover)
4. Read a book with a name in the title.
5. Book with Hero who is Military/Police/Fire-rescue. (love a man in uniform!!!)

6. Book with disabled or plain hero/heroine (some ex. Can be found at www.likesbooks.com/lessthan.html)-DONE-The Courtship of Izzy McCree by Ruth Langan-3 stars

7. Read a book that was free or borrowed. (includes PBS, or library books, or borrowed from a friend.)
8. Read a book that is part of a series.
9. Read a book, where the hero/heroine is in the limelight. ( for ex. An actor, artist, musician, politician, etc. for ideas try www.likesbooks.com/limelight.html )
10. A book where the couple are reunited. (http://www.likesbooks.com/reunited.html)
11. Reader’s Choice 1
12. Reader’s Choice 2
13. Reader’s Choice 3
14. Read a book where someone has Amnesia (www.likesboook.com/feign.html)
15. Revisit one of the previous Challenge Authors: Read a book by (pick one) Johanna Lindsey, Lisa Kleypas, Lori Foster, Linda Howard, Julia Quinn, Christina Dodd.

Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews

2010-10-18T14:37:00.002-05:00

This 4th installment in the Kate Daniels urban fantasy series was very good, but not her best-the biggest problem is the author dragged out the story about 40 pages after the "battle climax" of the story, when she could have wrapped up the afterward in 10. This book is still good enough for me to recommend though.
4 stars

A Dark And Stormy Night by Anne Stuart

2010-08-20T19:18:00.001-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
Harlequin Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
The man had secrets...

Blindsided by a hurricane, Katie Flynn was seeking shelter from the storm -- but all she found was a moody, broody recluse named O'Neal. Trapped with him in his house on a windswept cliff overlooking the wildly tossed sea, Katie tried to fight the feelings O'Neal awakened in her -- both of sensuality and fear. She began to suspect that something haunted the tall, gray-eyed man's domain, something more than the wicked servants or family ghosts... something strange that only O'Neal himself could reveal.

My Review:
Pretty good series/paranormal Romance by an old favorite. Loved the Irish and supernatural aspect of the story. 3.5 stars.

The Wild Marquis by Miranda Neville

2010-08-16T02:51:00.000-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:

The Marquis of Chase is not a reputable man.

He is notorious for his wretched morals and is never received in respectable houses. The ladies of the ton would never allow him in their drawing rooms . . . though they were more than willing to welcome him into their bedchambers. Ejected from his father's house at the age of sixteen, he now lives a life of wanton pleasure. So what could the Marquis of Chase possibly want with Juliana Merton, a lovely, perfectly upstanding shopkeeper with a mysterious past?

A moment's indiscretion?

A night's passion?

Or a lifetime of love?

Even the wildest rakes have their weaknesses . . .

My Review:

I loved this book! The characters are well fleshed out, three dimensional and not "cookie cutter". I love the concept of the storyline-of "bibliomania" a group of avid rare book collectors, their race to get the books they want, and what shocking secrets they learn along the way in relation to those books and their lives. Both the hero and heroine are "scarred" in one way or another-both being raised in very dysfunctional homes. That didn't stop them from being caring people. The love scenes are pretty hot-at least a "R" rating.

I recommend this book and look forward to more from this smart and savvy author. 5 stars!

Jack O'Lantern by Kathleen A. Shoesmith

2010-08-14T19:21:00.000-05:00

Read For:
1000 Regency Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
In the year 1730, when Susanna, a penniless woman left alone by the death of her mother, learns of the existence of distant relative, she is overjoyed. She travels south to Silfleet, on the English coast, to locate the father she'd never known. But a killer lies waiting for her and it soon becomes very clear that she can trust no one, least of all her mysterious masked ally, the infamous smuggler Jack O'Lantern.

My Review:

First-I find it cute, that this "Ace Regency Romance (per it's cover) is in actuality, set in 1730, which I believe to be Georgian era. Secondly-dig that cover art! LOL

Finally, to the story-cute Georgian era Romance of a penniless girl who must move in with poor relations.They live in a village known for smuggling-where she meets and falls for the "Jack O' Lantern", a dashing smuggler. A "Scarlet Pimpernel" style story.

The "mystery" was fairly obvious and the typical "the heroine must be a-very young, b-very stupid, and c-very powerless" was a bit annoying but most heroines written in these 1970's romances were this dumb. It was still enjoyable enough if you are in the mood for a short bit of sentimental fluff.
3 stars

A Wife For Warminster by Margaret Summerville

2010-08-14T18:56:00.002-05:00

Read For:
RYOB Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

Synopsis:
A Difficult Duty

At first it seemed that Miss Elizabeth Newmarch had found a perfect position as companion to wealthy, witty and kindly Lady Honora Trevor. But Elizabeth's new position soon became awkward in the extreme.

Honora was determined that her notorious nephew, the Earl of Warminster, enter into wedlock. And Elizabeth was enlisted to find a bride to make Warminster mend his wicked, wicked ways.

How could Elizabeth induce a dazzling beauty like Lady Georgina Barley to wed Warminster? How could she possibly put this tender young innocent into his callous hands? And, more to the point, how could Elizabeth allow another woman to possess this libertine lord she wanted so desperately for herself..

My review:
Wonderfully witty "comedy of errors" Regency with a naval/yachting theme thrown in. My first Regency by this author but definitely not my last. This author knows how to write enjoyable secondary characters. Loved Aunt Honora and the gawky but gallant Jeremy Sherwood. A little too quickly ended, otherwise it would have been a five star Regency. Still well worth a read to any fellow "traditional Regency" fan.
4 stars.

Unfinished-Finders Keepers by Linnea Sinclair

2010-08-14T18:43:00.002-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
Fantasy Challenge

Synopsis:
Trilby Elliot is a barely legal independent trader. Rhis Vanur is the arrogant Zafharin military officer she rescued from a crash landing. It would have been a miracle if they survived each other's company on Trilby's slapdash starfreighter even under the best of circumstances. And these are far from the best of circumstances. For Trilby's best friend is missing and the warlike 'Sko are hunting both Trilby and Rhis. Suddenly they're in it together, for better, for worse--or until death blasts them to oblivion...

My review:
This book started out well, but fell flat when the heroine turned "angry brat" just because the hero didn't tell her he was a starship captain. This conflict should have been tidied up in a couple chapters, but when we have this go on for over 100 pages? Am I reading a "supposed" thoughtful, mature Sci Fi romance, or some hokey Harlequin? Again-authors-how can you develop a relationship between the hero/heroine-when all you have them do is "fight"? To top it off-the hero is constantly thinking nice things about the heroine, and helping her, and she's being frankly, a bitch. I quit it 350 pages in-yep-I tried to stick with it but Trilby's childishness just threw me off any enjoyment I may have had in the storyline. I'll try another of this author's books and hope this was just "debut novel" problems.

2 stars.

Nook Corner: Lovey Mary by Alice Hegan Rice

2010-07-25T10:17:00.004-05:00

Lovey Mary
Alice Hegan Rice
1903, 69 pages

Alice Hegan Rice's Wikipedia page:

Download Lovey Mary FREE at http://manybooks.net/titles/ricealicetext04lvymr10.html#

Well, I've joined the "future" and asked for and was lovingly given (by my DH, Roger for my Anniversary gift) a Barnes and Noble ereader, the Nook.

I'm having a blast searching through and downloading for FREE the literal millions of older books that have been painstakingly scanned and saved for the ages through programs like Google Books and Gutenberg.net. I hope to read and review many of the oldies and share them on my blog. I feel that the restoration and "saving" of these old, hard to find books is so essential. They are literally being saved from extinction. On to my first Nook read and review:)

Synopsis:
The large hearted girl heroine adopts a forlorn baby, and herself becomes the protegee of Mrs Wiggs of the cabbage patch.

My Review:
Published in 1903.
Charming story about an Orphan Girl of 15, called Lovey Mary, who is put in charge of another ward's baby, Tommy, when she is thirteen. The "wicked girl" who is Tommy's mother comes back two years later to claim him and this is where Lovey Mary and Tommy's adventures begin. Mary and Tommy run away and end up in Cabbage Patch-which is hinted to be the poor side of the town. Mary and Tommy are helped by Miss Hazy, Miss Wiggs (of Miss Wiggs and The Cabbage Patch) and many other residents of Cabbage Patch.
If you like humor ala' Ma and Pa Kettle, then you'll enjoy this charming tale.

PS-be forewarned-as many books of the era, the "n" word is used once.

4 stars.

One of the original illustrations from the book!

The Jewelled Snuff Box by Alice Chetwynd Ley

2010-07-23T15:09:00.001-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

Synopsis:
Jane Spencer Tarrant finds a half-dead man, victim of highwaymen, with amnesia and in possession of a jewel-encrusted box, the all-important key to a mystery.

My Review:
Good vintage Regency. Heroine is poor gentility who is working as a companion/governess. Hero is a gentleman she finds one night, on the side of the road, unconscious and with amnesia.

3.5 stars

Jane And The Unpleasantness At Scargrave Manor by Stephanie Barron

2010-07-23T15:04:00.001-05:00

Read For:
Thriller/Suspense Challenge
Historical Fiction Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
For everyone who loves Jane Austen... a marvelously entertaining new series that turns the incomparable author into an extraordinary sleuth!

On a visit to the estate of her friend, the young and beautiful Isobel Payne, Countess of Scargrave, Jane bears witness to a tragedy. Isobel's husband--a gentleman of mature years--is felled by a mysterious and agonizing ailment. The Earl's death seems a cruel blow of fate for the newly married Isobel. Yet the bereaved widow soon finds that it's only the beginning of her misfortune ... as she receives a sinister missive accusing her and the Earl's nephew of adultery--and murder. Desperately afraid that the letter will expose her to the worst sort of scandal, Isobel begs Jane for help. And Jane finds herself embroiled in a perilous investigation that will soon have her following a trail of clues that leads all the way to Newgate Prison and the House of Lords--a trail that may well place Jane's own person in the gravest jeopardy.

My Review:
I enjoyed this historical mystery featuring Jane Austen (pre any of her books being published) as the sleuth and plan to read the others in the series. A great mystery for those who love the Regency era.
4 stars.

The Runaway Princess by Christina Dodd

2010-07-08T08:29:00.000-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
MASQUERADE

English orphan Miss Evangeline Scoffield has spent her life contenting herself with dreams. But with an unforeseen inheritance, she can afford one perfect summer--a summer she will spend the rest of her life remembering. She buys herself expensive clothes, travels abroad, and presents herself as a lady of mystery.

MARRIAGE

But she quickly discovers her mistake, for a darkly handsome man appears at her bedroom door, claiming to be a Crown Prince--and her fiance.

OR THE EVER AFTER OF HER DREAMS?

One look into her eyes, and the prince recognizes her. She is his betrothed, the runaway Princess of Serephina. All her denials cannot change that, or alter the passion that burgeons between them. To fulfill their destinies, the prince will do anything--abduct her, coerce her, or, best of all, seduce his reluctant bride into his royal world of peril, promise and passion.

My Review:
Overall, it's about a three. There was pretty much nothing about this book that "grabbed" me. It was entertaining enough, though not anything special. It's definitely a fantasy Romance and as such be prepared for implausibilities galore. Characters were too one dimensional.

2.5 to 3 stars.

Out Of The Common Way by Melissa Lynn Jones

2010-07-04T21:56:00.000-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
WHAT THE RAKE NEEDED WAS A WIFE. AND SHE WAS JUST THE MISS TO MARRY HIM OFF!

Tall as a gatepost, with hair that put carrots to shame, Cecilia wasn't waiting for love. But neither would she marry without it, as her loathsome guardians insisted she must. Her solution: escape to London and into the very comfortable employment of the dowager duchess of Kelthorpe.

Yet the sight of her employer's dashing grandson sent a shock of recognition through Cecilia's fluttering heart. Wasn't this the Major Trelwyn who had once mistaken her for a lightskirt? It had been an embarrassing case of mistaken identity that had ended in a practical joke--at his expense!

The only way to avoid the man, and keep her present position intact, was to find him a wife. There was but one problem. Cecilia was falling in love....

My Review:
A fairly good Regency, though a bit too heavy on descriptions instead of much needed interaction and dialog, which made this relatively short book read as a much longer one. The relationship between the H/H and other characters was well written though. Finally I loved the heroine's dog, a French Briard named Marpessa.

3 stars

Yesterday's Evil by Dorothy Daniels

2010-06-28T22:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's Evil
Dorothy Daniels, 1979. 172 pages
Gothic Romantic Suspense
Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
Thriller/Suspense Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
A TOWN OF GHOSTLY MEMORIES.

When an innocent man was lynched by the angry people of Arnetville, the local minister called down a devastating curse on his sinful parishioner's. And from that moment the town began slowly, frighteningly, mysteriously, to die . . . years later, lovely Adria Arnet return there as the new owner of the town were she had been born. Adria was determined to discover the truth about its terrifying past so she could start rebuilding Arnetville and reopen the nearby marble quarry. Yet in a to Meridee people only buy a half-crazed old woman, a drunken doctor, and the restless ghost of the dead, Adria found little to encourage her. And least not until a co-owner of the quarry, handsome Owen Sloan, fell in love with Adria and eagerly agreed to help her with her plans. But Adria and Owen couldn't foresee what misfortune awaited those who attempted to stir up long-buried secrets. Nor did they dream of the evil that would soon in danger both their love and their lives. . .

My Review:
Set in Victorian or Edwardian times, Yesterday's Evil was a pretty entertaining old Gothic mystery. Full of "Gothic" treats like an abandoned quarry town, curses, tragedies, unexplained deaths and other things that go bump in the night. The mystery was good enough that I didn't figure out who the villain was and the romance was sweet albeit sappy. 3.5 stars.

A Spirited Romance by Alana Clayton

2010-06-25T03:16:00.001-05:00

Read For:
RYOB Challenge
ROR Summer Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge
Countdown Challenge

Synopsis:
WILL THE SEARCH FOR SPIRITS TURN OF LOVE INSTEAD?

Clearing Ellery Lawford, Lord Trent's country home, of ghosts is just another job for Miss Vanessa Grayson. After all, her ability to communicate with spirits is her only means of income--and with her missing sister's infant left in her care, she needs funds post haste. But the task at hand is more complicated than usual, because Trent's soon-to-be fiancee seems to be inventing menacing spirits everywhere. Even more disturbing is the fact that Vanessa finds the young nobleman dangerously appealing.

Lord Trent can't believe that skittish, demanding Cornelia Burnett is the woman he is about to marry--especially with level-headed and inexpressibly pretty Miss Grayson in attendance. But can he trust his attraction to a woman who talks to the dead? A woman whom he suspects might be linked with a nefarious London club and his own brother's disappearance? When the tangled threads of proof become a frustrating knot, Trent knows that he needs Vanessa's help to sort out the whole mess--almost as much as he wants the lovely spiritualist's love.

My Review:

A Spirited Romance is one of these storylines where a mystery keeps the hero and heroine from being entirely truthful with each other for a period of time. While that in itself is not a problem, the duration the "misunderstandings" go on can make or break the book for me. In this books case, they went on far too long, pretty much the entire book till the last 5-10 pages. Because of the misunderstandings, the hero thought all sorts of bad things about the heroine-from being a fake, to being a member of the Hellfire Club, to having a child out of wedlock and involvement in his brother's disappearance. All this was concluded in those ten pages WAY too conveniently , and the heroine just blithely accepts his apology. How are we supposed to feel any romance for a guy who pretty much thinks the worst of the heroine the entire book?

Finally-for a book that was supposed to be about a "ghost whisperer", that takes place way too little in the book as well.

I'd give this book 3 stars, but wouldn't recommend it.

The Falcon And The Flower by Virginia Henley

2010-06-22T08:32:00.004-05:00

The Falcon And The Flower
Virginia Henley
Medieval Romance, 470 pages

Read For:
Historical Fiction Challenge
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge
What's In A Name Challenge 3

Synopsis:
Promised to him in marriage, she vowed not to surrender her body or her soul.

AN ANGEL WITH HELLFIRE IN HER HEART

Astride her white palfrey, surrounded by a nimbus of silver-blonde hair, Jasmine was a vision to strike a man mute with desire. But the violet-eyed love child of King Richard's half brother had vowed that no man would ever rule her heart. Until she saw the face of the Devil himself in her crystal ball -- the dark, brooding knight who would kill to make her his own. She would risk a dissolute court and a maddened, lustful king to keep destiny at bay, anything to keep her from the hypnotic eyes and burning caresses of... THE FALCON

A BLACK KNIGHT WHO VOWED TO MAKE HER HIS WIFE

A wickedly handsome warrior who lived by blood and the sword, Falcon de Burgh wanted to wed no woman -- until he laid eyes on the exquisite Jasmine, and he vowed to possess her, to teach her all the wondrous ways a man could love a woman, no matter what it might take to conquer her fiery, unyielding heart. Falcon knew only blind, reckless passion as he swore to tame, at the risk of his life... THE FLOWER.

My Review:

A great old school"bodice ripper" 80's historical romance. The hero, Falcon, is way alpha male and the heroine, Jasmine, is pretty much a stubborn twit who continually gets into scrapes that the hero must rescue her from. All that being said-the back story of King John and the machinations of his court were such that the book was still quite enjoyable.

This book would have been 5 stars if not for the stupidity, stubbornness, and just plain bit@hiness of the heroine. The book constantly goes on about her "exquisite, flaxen beauty" and the heroine uses that to manipulate most around her. The most unusual, and implausible thing, is that, even though Jasmine is supposedly a skilled white witch, she has virtually no knowledge of the marriage act and is literally terrified of bedroom relations for over two thirds of the book? She actually cringes when the hero touches her! The hero is crazy about her but at several points he wonders why he puts up with her abuse.

And yes-he does strike her a couple of times in the book-after her selfish antics put many others in jeopardy and in one instance almost get a man killed. While I don't at all support violence-this heroine was SOO selfish and mean spirited she almost makes ME want to slap her-LOL!

I give props to Virginia Henley's writing that she can make two leads who are VERY unlikable but still weave an interesting story in spite of them. This is my first Virginia Henley and I hope that most of her heroines are not dingbats like Jasmine, if so I'll skip those books as she is cringe worthy.

3.5 stars.

Belinda Goes To Bath by Marion Chesney

2010-06-21T09:57:00.002-05:00

Belinda Goes To Bath
Marion Chesney
Regency, 1991, 155 pages

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge
1000 Regency Challenge

Synopsis:
The delightful Miss Pym returns to the English countryside in search of adventure and romance in distress.

With her infallible wisdom and charming demeanor she corn steer even the most misguided of hearts back on course!

No sooner does Miss Pym board her next stagecoach than she finds herself embroiled in the plight of Miss Belinda Earle, a spirited heiress banished to Bath after swearing off the marriage mart!

When the coach founders near Baddell Castle, and the dashing Marquess of Frenton comes to the rescue, Miss Pym decides to give fate a hand! Although the austere bachelor disdains romance, his furtive glances toward Belinda prove to Miss Pym that her expert matchmaking will soon turn this star-crossed couple into a heavenly match!

My Review:
Belinda Goes To Bath is another great installment in The Travelling Matchmaker series. It's fun to see Miss Hannah Pym, the 30 something former servant, who, after inheriting a modest income from her deceased employer, goes on her dream travel, via the stage coach all about England.

In this installment, Miss Pym's fellow rider that she takes under her wing is Belinda, who is forced to ride the coach, with her companion, to Bath, to cover up a "scandal". After a coach accident, the coach riders are forced to house at the hero's home, the Marquess of Frenton. A series of comedy of errors, scandals, and machinations develop-keeping the hero and heroine apart and Miss Pym on her toes.

4 stars-recommended.

Irish Enchantment by Kathryn Fox, Candace McCarthy, and Jean Wilson

2010-06-15T22:13:00.002-05:00

Read For:
ROR Summer Challenge
RYOB Challenge
Synopsis:

Three stories explore the magic and mystery of a land steeped in legend and lore . . .

Irish Enchantment, an anthology written by the following authors:

Kathryn Fox - "Irish Roses."
A stranger appears at the door of an English woman and tries to convince her that their destinies are entwined . . .
Candace McCarthy - "The Bride Price."
A newly married couple let pride keep them from admitting their deep love for each other . . .
Jean Wilson - "Irish Wildfire."
Sparks fly as a spirited Irish patriot kidnaps an English nobleman to ransom a magical harp . . .

My Review:
Three Irish Historical Romance stories.
Kathryn Fox's Irish Roses was the best-5 stars.
Candace McCarthy's story was not good, I quit it forty pages from the end.
Jean Wilson's story was very good at first but the heroine turned a bit "TSTL" at the end, so I give it 3 stars.
Overall, I give Irish Enchantment 3 stars.

Bewitched By Love by Desjardien, Holbrook and King

2010-06-12T22:18:00.003-05:00

Bewitched By Love

Zebra Regency Anthology Holiday Special

1996, 380 pages

Teresa Desjardien, Cindy Holbrook and Valerie King

Synopsis:

A TIME OF SORCERY, ROMANCE... AND THE MAGIC THAT IS LOVE

All Hallows Eve ...a night when the impossible happens...when Regency castles are filled with mystery and intrigue...when costume balls in elegant mansions may lead to passionate surprises ...and when ladies and gentlemen of the ton find themselves falling under a spell that may be other-worldly. Or as close as their own hearts ...in these three delightfully mysterious tales...

Teresa DesJardien's The Haunted Bride is the second Lady Healey who has just wed a nobleman whose first marriage ended in tragedy...and whose seductive embrace could bring danger--or the love of a lifetime. In Cindy Holbrook's Love's Magic, a young sorceress meets her destiny in a handsome highborn Duke who is promised to another...a union only the powers of true love can prevent. Valerie King's The Vampire Rogue pairs a charming rake with an heiress, whose newly acquired castle is the setting for a masquerade ball ...and where the resident vampire has his own plans for eternally joining these unlikely lovers.

My Review:

Of the three stories there was one good one, one OK one and one stinker. The Cindy Holbrook story, was the best-I loved the hero and heroine, and the heroines silly, scatterbrained witch Aunties. The last story, King's A Vampire Rogue, started well, but I didn't like the way the hero wanted to make the heroine his "conquest" and his mistress through most of the story. The first, Desjardien's Haunted Bride, was just not good, couldn't finish that one.

So I'd give The Haunted Bride 1 star, Love's Magic 4 stars, and The Vampire Rogue 2.5 stars. Overall, it was interesting to read a traditional Regency with supernatural storylines, but I'd only suggest Bewitched by Love if you can get it cheap or free.

3 stars.

Dead In The Family by Charlaine Harris

2010-06-10T01:19:00.001-05:00

Read For:
Fantasy Reading Challenge

Synopsis:
If you think your family relationships are complicated, think again: youhaven't seen anything like the ones in Bon Temps, Louisiana. SookieStackhouse is dealing with a whole host of family problems, ranging from herown kin (a non-human fairy and a telepathic second cousin) demanding a placein her life, to her lover Eric's vampire sire, an ancient being who arrives with Eric's 'brother' in tow at a most inopportune moment. And Sookie's tracking down a distant relation of her ailing neighbour (and ex), VampireBill Compton. In addition to the multitude of family issues complicating herlife, the werewolf pack of Shreveport has asked Sookie for a special favour,and since Sookie is an obliging young woman, she agrees. But this favor for the wolves has dire results for Sookie, who is still recovering from thetrauma of her abduction during the Fairy War.

My review:
It was pretty good, but not as good as most of the others in the series.I cannot pinpoint exactly "what" was missing to give the story it's usual "oomph", but it wasn't there. It was still enjoyable, as any visit into "Sookieville" is:) 3.5 stars.

Silverhair by Stephen Baxter

2010-06-03T22:19:00.000-05:00

Read For:
Fantasy Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
Stephen Baxter breaks genre boundaries and brings his unique imagination, epic scope and elegant style to an anthropomorphic fantasy. Starting with the story of a young female mammoth and the struggle her herd has to survive into the present day on a remote Siberian Island the MAMMOTH trilogy encompasses thousands of millions of years, the geological and climatic history of earth and a vision of a startling future. All via an astounding evocation of mammoth. Life, biology, intelligence, culture, myth and legend. It is a triumph of imaginative story telling.

My Review:
A fast paced fantasy novel based on a family grouping of Mammoths. Exciting,emotional, tragic and a moving story of survival. You might shed a tear or two reading this moving story. If you are a person who likes "animal" fantasy books like Watership Down, Tailchaser's Song, or Redwall, I recommend Silverhair. 4 stars

Lucky Charm by Carly Phillips

2010-06-01T08:01:00.000-05:00

Lucky Charm
Carly Phillips
Contemporary Romance, 375 pages, 2008

Read For
Countdown Challenge
RYOB Challenge

Synopsis:
Long ago, as revenge on a Corwin who stole her son's fiancée, a witch proclaimed an eternal curse that every Corwin male who married for love would be destined to lose his woman and his fortune.

Derek thought he could outsmart the long-standing Corwin curse by breaking up with Gabrielle, his first love - and marrying someone else. Now, divorced and broke, all he has left is his teenage daughter and a healthy respect for ancient sorcery. But then Gabrielle returns, determined to defeat the curse and rekindle their passion. But will her stubborn streak and her unwavering love be the lucky charm Derek so desperately needs?Long ago, as revenge on a Corwin who stole her son's fiancée, a witch proclaimed an eternal curse that every Corwin male who married for love would be destined to lose his woman and his fortune.

Derek thought he could outsmart the long-standing Corwin curse by breaking up with Gabrielle, his first love - and marrying someone else. Now, divorced and broke, all he has left is his teenage daughter and a healthy respect for ancient sorcery. But then Gabrielle returns, determined to defeat the curse and rekindle their passion. But will her stubborn streak and her unwavering love be the lucky charm Derek so desperately needs?

My Review:

Others reviewers on Visual Bookshelf have continually stated Lucky Charm is "an easy read" and they are right. Predictable storyline, predictable mystery, generic romance as well as bedroom scenes. Hero and heroine are both pretty lame, and the storyline is way far fetched and easily forgettable.
Another reviewer mentioned that it is a book you don't have to "think about" when reading-and sadly that's true. Average at best. Is the book equivalent of getting mediocre takeaway-it fills you up but never truly delights the tastebuds. About the only good thing I could say about it is it's a good book if you have pressing personal issues and just need to "zone out".
2.5 stars

Unfinished-The Tarot Spell by Willo Davis Robarts

2010-05-29T09:12:00.001-05:00

The Tarot Spell
Willo Davis Roberts
Magnum Gothic Romance, 1970
254 pages

Synopsis:

Catherine Sorenson nursed Sherm Addison for seven long years, until the old man died...and plain Catherine, unpretty Catherine, found herself two million dollars wealthier. The whole world suddenly stood open before her...but there had been only one romantic dream in her life: that of marrying Jason Ruart. The Ruarts were Mill Falls, and now, almost unbelievably, Catherine Sorenson was about to become Mrs. Jason Ruart.

Then the rumors began - the dirty rumors, the stories of heavy losses in the mills, the snickering gossip that claimed Jason would do anything for money in his desperation - including marrying ugly Catherine Sorenson! At first Catherine refused to listen to the stories; then she learned the truth about the death of Jason's first wife...

My Review:
Oh no-the dreaded "I'm a plain heroine, please treat me as your personal doormat as I have no self esteem or backbone".
I quit at the point where she signs over the 3+ million she just inherited to her husband of TEN DAYS-the same guy who never looked at her twice in fourteen years since high school, but marries her right after she comes into a fortune. Gawd save me from moronic heroines!