All He Wants for Christmas Anthology

All He Wants For Christmas Anthology

Publisher: The Indie Six, LLC

December 2015

ISBN: 9781942447399

Pages: 450

Holly, North Carolina

Melt for Me by Elisabeth Naughton

Ella McKinley doesn’t do holidays even if she does own the Yuletide Spirits pub.  Especially with the loss she suffered one cold snowy night long ago. If the calendar jumped from November to January skipping December completely she would be perfectly happy. Tate Kendrick is rock’s latest “it” guy when he rolls into town. The heat that Tate and Ella once shared flares hotter than ever even when Ella tries to resist his wicked charm. Soon Ella is wondering if the return of her first love is a holiday miracle or her nightmare before Christmas when trouble linked to Tate strikes her pub.

Sweet Rapture by Alexandra Ivy

When Meg Anderson discovers her relationship with Dylan Cain is nothing more than a lie she returns to her home in Holly. Dylan being her new tenant is the very last thing she expects. She also didn’t expect to find that he might be the only thing standing between her and a killer.

The Spy Who Came for Christmas by Cynthia Eden

Jemma White might seem as sweet as the delicious treats she makes in her chocolate shop, at least that is what everyone in town thinks but they would be wrong. Jemma is ready for her wild side to come out. She has also found the perfect man to make her fantasies come true. Grayson Cole has escaped to Holly for the holidays even though he seems more than a-too-sexy-to-be-true stranger. Jemma can’t wait to steam up the cold winter nights with him as he is her perfect temptation. Jemma soon realizes that the man she is falling for has some very dark secrets when danger from Grayson’s past follows him to town. Those secrets just might get them both killed.

Merry, Christmas Baby by Katie Reus

Nora and her younger sister settled in Holly when they unexpectedly inherit a bookstore. Holly is a place that it is Christmas year-round. Nora is her sister’s legal guardian and that has made romance the very last thing on her mind. Jackson O’Connor is a former SEAL and for the town’s golden boy Nora has broken her own rules. Doing something stupid and almost losing Nora for good makes Jackson realize just how far he will go for the woman that has stolen his heart. Though for Nora to give him a second chance just might take a Christmas miracle.

Sinful in Snow by Laura Wright

Gabriel Fox is a heartless, ruthless, soulless Grinch and a Billionaire that is back in town.  He has only one goal in mind when he returns to Holly and that is to ruin Carol Cardini’s Christmas. Ten years ago she ruined his Christmas and his life. He has finally found the way to accomplish his goal with her business being in trouble. Carol isn’t about to let her dream be destroyed as the owner of Carol’s Shop and Crafts. Most certainly not by the sexiest man she has ever known and certainly not by revenge. What she can do is offer a chair at her holiday table and an apology. Now she will find out if the magic of Christmas spirit and the love of a good woman will warm and heal a Grinch’s cold heart.

Home Advantage by Skye Jordan

Meier Grant is a NHL super star but at the moment he has been sidelined by a bum shoulder. With a three week recovery sentence he has returned to his hometown of Holly. His parents are more interested in capitalizing on his fame rather than the much needed family bonding and it makes for an extended family stay the one thing that is not on his holiday wish list. Home doesn’t seem so bad when he finds out Faith Nicholas is suddenly single as when they were in high school she was the high school beauty and out-of-his league. Ten years later she is sexier than ever. Home is even better when he gets quality bonding time with Faith. Meier has the moves but are they enough to win a woman that deserves forever?

This is a bunch of amazing stories by some great authors.  While each story stands on its own they are much more fun to read together as they all weave together to make up a great small town that has some very interesting characters in it.  They are also sure to get readers into the holiday spirit as they get captivated by the town of Holly, North Carolina. The town of Holly is made up with special people that support each other and help each other out when it is needed.  The story really brings the reason for the season to life in a way that will have readers wishing they could actually visit Holly and the shops and people that are there.  This is one not to miss.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

I'll Be Home for Christmas

I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Lori Wilde

Publisher: Avon

November 2015

ISBN: 978-0-06-231141-2

Pages: 401

Contemporary Romance

Twilight, Texas

It is all merriment and mistletoe as the town of Twilight celebrates Christmas. The townspeople are scrambling to get their holiday shopping done and the Cookie Club is whipping up their most festive sweets.  A hometown guy with a restless heart, Joe, is dreaming about the woman he wants to kiss more than anything.

While Joe’s sister is away the woman he wants is staying at his sister’s place. Gabi Preston is a runaway law student and Joe isn’t sure if he wants to be a living Christmas present to her.

Joe nicknames Gabi “Trouble” as she is a sassy sweetheart. He also thinks he won’t be inconvenienced by anything other than his healthy sex drive. Soon Joe aches to give Gabi everything she has never had when he finds out why she ran away to escape her life. With the magic of the season drawing them together they discover that the only gift worth giving is love.

This is another chapter in a series that will have readers cheering that they can revisit Twilight, Texas.  The story of Joe and Gabi will be pulling on readers heart strings and will put readers in the mood of the season.  This is also a story that readers will want to read over and over.  It is fun to watch how much Joe and Gabi change as they find what matters most to them and to see how they work to find their happily ever after.  Readers also get the joy of visiting Twilight again and see how the other characters are doing. 

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Hard Limit

Hard Limit by Meredith Wild

Publisher: Grand Central

May 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-9181-7

Pages: 287

Contemporary Romance

Boston, Massachusetts

Blake Landon has everything he needs – good looks, wealth and most importantly the love of Erica Hathaway.  They are a power couple that has been to hell and back. They are now more in love and stronger than ever after life has torn them apart and finding their way back to each other.

Erica is more than ready to say I do. Just as she is on the verge of making the ultimate commitment she uncovers an unsettling chapter in Blake’s past. Erica presses Blake to tear all the walls down between them especially as she comes to terms with her own past and family. She opens a door beyond her wildest imagination in her determination to learn all about the man Blake once was.  She finds a world that leaves her questioning the limits of her own desires.

She needs to see if their forever will be destroyed by the past when dark secrets come to light and with danger lurking. 

This is proving to be an amazing series that will stay with readers long after they finish the book.  The characters are interesting and watching as they overcome each and every obstacle that is strewn in their path to find their happiness takes reader on an emotional rollercoaster. This book takes some great twists and turns that keep the reader guessing just what will happen next and if Blake and Erica will be able to overcome their problems to find their way to a happily ever after.  This is a series that will end up on many keeper shelves.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Break On Through

Break On Through Rock Royalty Book 3 by Christie Ridgway

Publisher: Christie Ridgway

January 2015

Pages: 228

Contemporary Romance

California

Rolling Stone magazine once dubbed the nine collective children of the most famous band in the world “Rock Royalty,” years ago.  All the princes and princesses are coming back to L.A.’s Laurel Canyon now that they are all grown up. They are also trying to discover if love can be found among the ruins of their childhoods that was steeped in sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll.

Reed Hopkins enjoys his solitary existence as a reclusive novelist. At least until Cleo Anderson who is a single mom and her two kids move in next door. The exasperating woman wants to be neighborly.  What he needs is either a mean dog or a better security system.

Cleo’s compulsion to make the strong silent man on the other side of the fence smile is one she can’t control. Reed is a magnet to her kids and also to someone that is lonely and is beginning to dream. When trouble arrives at her door Cleo is suddenly afraid she is about to lose more than her heart.

This is a good story that fits in nicely with the first two books in the series. There are a few editing problems but once the reader gets past those it is a very good book.  The characters are likable and move the story along very well. It will also have readers wanting to read the next book in the series. It is proving to be a fun and an emotionally engrossing series. It is nice to see each of the “Rock Royalty” put their pasts behind them and find a happy future.  It is also nice to have past characters make cameo appearance so the reader can see what each one is up to.

I give this one 4 red roses

LRH

Sixth Grave on the Edge

Sixth Grave on the Edge by Darynda Jones

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

May 2014

ISBN: 978-1-250-04563-8

Pages: 336

Contemporary Paranormal Romance

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Charley Davidson is not most girls and most would think twice before getting engages to someone like Reyes Farrow. Charley is a paranormal private eye not to mention a grim reaper-in-training and with just few shots of caffeine she is also knows as a bit of a hell-raiser. Reyes is everything Charley could hope for being dark, deeply sexy and sultry even if her beloved is also the only begotten son of evil. Then an FBI file ends up in her lap that is about Reyes’ childhood. Then the real fun begins when she opens it. If that wasn’t enough first a naked corpse ends up riding shotgun in her car. Next a man loses his soul in a card game. As if that wasn’t enough a deaf boy that sees dead people, a very suspicious Reyes and a woman running from mobsters gets thrown in too. Charley is sure things can’t get any worse for her. Unless, the Twelve Beasts of Hell are unleashed then they can get worse.

This is a series that is full of laughs that will keep readers up late into the night just so they can finish each book.  Each book gets better and better and makes for a series that is truly unforgettable.  With the way Charley livens things up around her readers will wish they could actual know Charley and her brand of crazy.  This book is laugh out loud funny and it will have readers turning the pages just to see how Charley will get out of her latest bout of trouble.  It will also have readers reaching for the next book just to see what else will happen to Charley and company.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

The Good Girl

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

Publisher: Mira

February 2015

ISBN: 978-0-7783-1776-0

Pages: 361

Contemporary Suspense with Romantic elements

Mia Dennett enters a bar one night to meet her on-again, off-again boyfriend. She unwisely leaves with an enigmatic stranger when her boyfriend doesn’t show. Colin Thatcher seems like a safe one-night stand at least at first. By following Colin home Mia ends up making the worst mistake of her life.

Colin then decides to hide Mia in a secluded cabin in rural Minnesota rather than turn her over to his employers.  Detective Gabe Hoffman and Mia’s mother, Eve, won’t let anything stop them from finding Colin and Mia. The emotional entanglements that eventually cause the family’s world to shatter no one could have predicted.

This is a story that keeps the reader guessing as to what will happen next and just what exactly is going on. The character insight that the reader gets with each word read makes for an unforgettable story.  The story takes so many twists and turns that the reader never knows how it will eventually turn out.  Just as the reader thinks they know what is going on another twist comes along to throw everything the reader knows into disarray.  This is an amazing psychological thriller that is very hard to put down once it is started.  It will also have readers wanting to read more from this author.  This is a thriller that is definitely a must read.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Bite the Dust

Bite the Dust (Blood and Moonlight Book 1) by Cynthia Eden

Publisher: Hocus Pocus Publishing, Inc.

October 2015

Pages: 244

Contemporary Paranormal Romance

New Orleans

Jane Hart is a detective in New Orleans. As she investigates her first official homicide case her world is torn apart by that very investigation. Jane is caught in an eternal battle between vampires and werewolves because her murder case is a part of that deadly war. It is also a battle that can’t end well.

Aidan Locke is a werewolf who for years has been running New Orleans. His job is to keep the vamps out of the city. It is now time for Aidan to fight with all the fury of his pack when a Master Vampire comes to town determined to unleash hell. It is beast versus vamp until the very last breath.  Then he meets Jane.

Aiden knows Jane is much more than she seems with just one taste and one look. Even she doesn’t know how much more she truly is. She is very important to the paranormal war. She is a queen to be won not a pawn to be used. Jane Hart will become something deadlier not just a fierce cop or guardian if Aiden can’t stop the darkness from descending on the town or keep her at his side. Aidan is determined to fight heaven and hell to change her fate.  He must become more than just a predator to change their fate.

This is another amazing book by an author that continues to writes books that prove to be addictive.  Readers will not want to put this one down until the very last page and they will want the next book right now. The characters are complex and intriguing and make for a story that moves at a very fast pace.  The action starts right at the beginning and doesn’t stop until the very end.  With all the twist and turns this story takes reader will never be completely sure just where this one will end up at and how it will get there. Readers that enjoy paranormal books and enjoy vampires and werewolves will find this is a must read. 

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Hardline

Hardline The Hacker Series Book 3 by Meredith Wild

Publisher: Grand Central

May 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-9178-7

Pages: 271

Contemporary Romance

Boston, Massachusetts

Blake Landon is a software mogul that met his match with Erica Hathaway who is headstrong. Blake has no intention of letting her leave his life again even as his controlling nature and her independent spirit continue to battle.

Erica is determined that they will conquer any challenges together. She has given Blake her trust and love. Now she is being forced to face his dark desires that he has kept hidden when he demands more and tests the boundaries of her commitment.

Enemies are closing in even as their bonds grow tighter. Blake’s frustration grows when others tried to get to him by ruining Erica’s start-up company and he tries to protect her from the ones after him. When more than just Erica’s livelihood is threatened by Blake’s enemies it will test their relationship as they see if it will survive.

This is an amazing series that gets better with each and every book. The twists and turns the series keeps taking keeps the reader guessing just what will happen next and just how Blake and Erica are going to manage to get out from what their enemies have planned for them. The suspense keeps building with each book and while so far each one has ended with a somewhat cliff hanger it is proving to work very well overall in the series.  This book will also have readers wanting to read the next book right away.  This is one series that will go on a lot of keeper shelves.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Love Her Madly

Love Her Madly Rock Royalty Book 2 by Christie Ridgway

Publisher: Christie Ridgway

September 2014

Pages: 224

Contemporary Romance

California

Rolling Stone magazine once dubbed the nine collective children of the most famous band in the world “Rock Royalty,” years ago.  All the princes and princesses are coming back to L.A.’s Laurel Canyon now that they are all grown up. They are also trying to discover if love can be found among the ruins of their childhoods that was steeped in sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll.

Bing Maddox is the “bad twin”. Alexa Alessio is his brother’s BFF and Bing has wanted her for months but he has stayed away because of his jaded soul and because she is too hearts-and-family.  He has buried his guilt after a good deed turned to a dark regret.  Since then he has also had a series of forgettable flings with women that want nothing more than some fun. He gives into his urges when Alexa needs a plus one for some upcoming wedding events. As he pursues her he goes all out to get her into his bed.

Alexa Alessio was being smart and keeping herself separate from Bing who is seen-everything, done-everything and wildly sexy then somehow she is suddenly agreeing to letting Bing be her date.  She wants back-up as her cousin marries Alexa’s stolen ex but Bing has made it clear he wants her in his bed. Her common sense tells her that with Bing being commitment-phobic when he moves on her heart will be broken even if her heart is saying yes. Now she is going to have to see if she can hold him after having him.

This is proving to be a very interesting and good series.  Seeing how the different “Rock Royalty” goes about finding their happy ever afters when they never thought they could have one let alone would even want one makes for some great reading. The characters are engaging and seeing them overcome their pasts to find the happiness they have a chance at pulls the reader in and will have readers hoping each one of the Rock Royalty finds lasting happiness.  While the first two books can be read as stand alones the stories are much better if they are read in order.

I give this one 4 red roses

LRH

Friction

Friction by Sandra Brown

Publisher: Grand Central

August 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-8116-0

Pages: 410

Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Prentiss, Texas

Crawford Hunt is a Texas Ranger that wants his daughter back. When his wife died four years ago he fell into a downward spiral that left his five-year-old daughter, Georgia, in the custody of her grandparents and he was relegated to desk work. Since then Crawford has met all the court-imposed requirements and cleaned up his act. Now the fate of his family lies with Judge Holly Spencer.

Holly is ambitious and confident. She also temporarily occupies the bench of her mentor who is recently deceased. She must prove herself worthy with the upcoming election if she wants to make her judgeship permanent. That also makes every decision high-stakes. Holly is wary of Crawford’s checker past despite his obvious love for his daughter and his commitment to being an ideal parent. Her opinion radically changes when a masked gunman barges into the courtroom during the guardianship hearing. Crawford reacting instinctually and saves Holly from a bullet.

Soon though his heroism takes on the taint of recklessness. After he uncovers a horrifying truth about the courtroom gunman the cloud over him grows ever darker. He also realizes that the unknown person that is behind the shooting is still and large and still a threat.

Crawford is determined to catch the culprit as it is now a personal fight for him. Soon his chances of gaining custody of his daughter is in jeopardy and Judge Holly Spencer is further compromised as he pursues the killer with this customary diehard fashion. Holly needs protection not just from an assassin but also the forbidden attraction between herself and Crawford but also from Crawford himself.

This is a book that is extremely hard to put down once the reader starts it.  The twists and turns that the story takes will have readers questioning just what will happen next and who is behind what is happening. It will also have readers on the edge of their seats as the action doesn’t stop until the end and as reader tries to guess where this one will end up.  This is definitely one book to check out for anyone that loves thrillers and/or romantic suspense.  The characters are flawed and relatable and will have readers hoping that everything will work out for them in the end. This is a must read.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

What Happens Under the Mistletoe

What Happens Under the Mistletoe anthology

Publisher: Pocket Books Romance

October 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4767-8608-7

Pages: 391

Historical Romance

The Heiress and the Hothead by Sabrina Jeffries

Two strangers share an unexpected kiss on a cold winter’s eve. They find themselves stunned by the heat of it especially as they come from two vastly different worlds.

Twelve Kisses to Midnight by Karen Hawkins

A rakish duke finds an alluring lady under the mistletoe that he surprises and she is not who he expected. Though what he does find is a long-lost love with a score to settle.

By Any Other Name by Candace Camp

With Edinburgh aglitter a curious gentleman finds himself in hot pursuit of an intriguing lady that is in disguise.  A lady that refuses to reveal who she truly is. Though she is also a lady that fears the gentleman has already stolen her heart with just one kiss.

Sweetest Regret by Meredith Duran

A feisty heroine finds the festive spirit of the season sweeping her under the mistletoe.  Though will it also sweep her back into the arms of the dashing rogue that broke her heart two years ago?

This is a book that is sure to have a story to please everyone that enjoys historical romances.  The stories are all different and all fun to read.  Readers will also find themselves getting into the spirit of the season with each and every story. Seeing each couple get around the obstacles that are standing in their way to getting the happy ever after they all want makes for some compelling reading. With each story being short it makes for a book that anyone can read during short breaks or even all at once.  For holiday reading this is definitely a book to check out and find a new author to read.

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

Reckonings

Reckonings The Battling McGuire Boys by Cynthia Eden

Publisher: Harlequin

October 2015

ISBN: 978-0-373-69860-8

Pages: 217

Cotemporary, Romantic Suspense

Austin, Texas

Dr. Jamie Myers has worked on outrunning her past.  Now it seems she has someone stalking her and leaving her deadly messages.  She trusted the wrong man once. She has hired Davis McGuire, a handsome ex-SEAL as her bodyguard and she wonders how she can rely on him. She also has to figure out how to ignore his hands-on attention that excites her.

Davis is one of McGuire Securities’ best.  He wants to play by the rules and protect the sexy doc 24/7.  Davis’ desire grows stronger as Jamie’s stalker grows bolder. Now he is breaking all of his rules as he is determined to uncover all of Jamie’s secrets so he can protect her.  He also wants to discover the key to her heart.

This is another amazing book in a series that is proving to be unforgettable.  The characters are well written and complex and makes for a story that pulls the reader in and doesn’t let go until the very last page.  With Jamie’s issues that stem from her past and seeing her get past them to find her happy ever after makes for a compelling read that is hard to put down.  It will also have reader eagerly awaiting the next book in the series and just how the overall story line that links all the books together turns out.  With all the mysteries and suspense that twist and turn in each of the books it makes for some addictive reading.  This is definitely a series worth checking out. 

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

Hardpressed

Hardpressed The Hacker Series Two by Meredith Wild

Publisher: Grand Central

May 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-9172-5

Pages: 299

Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Boston, Massachusetts

 Blake Landon is wealthy, young and a hacker and despite his controlling ways he has managed to win the trust of the woman he loves. Erica Hathaway is an internet entrepreneur that has finally broken down the walls that kept her from opening her business and heart to Blake.

Erica is ready to start a new chapter in her life and is determined that nothing will come between them. Even if that means giving Blake some of the control that he needs in and out of the bedroom.

Erica soon makes a decision that changes their lives forever when the demons from her past threaten their future.

This story picks up just after the first book in the series leaves off.  This is a series that should definitely be read in order to understand all that is happening throughout the series.  This is proving to be a wonderfully written series that draws the reader in and has them wanting more and more.  It will be interesting to see just where the series ends up and how it end. The characters are well written and watching them work through their pasts and the issues that it creates in their presents makes for an engrossing read that is very hard to put down. This story really pulls at readers heartstrings and will have them hoping things will work out for Blake and Erica.  The story also ends in a cliffhanger that actually works very well with the overall story line. If the next book picks up right after this one does it should give readers some closure. This is proving to be an addictive series that readers will love.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Ruin & Rule

Ruin & Rule by Pepper Winters

Publisher: Grand Central Forever

July 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-8933-3

Pages: 436

Contemporary MC Romance

Florida

The lies she has lived for the past eight years prove to be as twisted as her past, present and future. She is also a woman divided. She is desperate for the truth which means she must turn to the one man that might also be her greatest enemy.

He is a heartless biker, retribution-deliverer and the president of Pure Corruption MC. He lives only to reap revenge on those that have wronged him. He obeys no one and accepts no rules. Now he has stolen her body and soul.

She is plagued by mystery and must decide if she can fall in love with a man that refuses to face the truth. He needs to figure out if he can finally find redemption even though he is drenched in darkness and if he can forgo his quest for vengeance.

This is a book that stays with you long after the last page is read.  It will also have readers wanting the next book to see what will happen next.  This one ends with a cliffhanger but it works very well with the story.  The reader will be sucked into the story and lives of the characters as they try to figure out just what is going on. With each clue that is revealed it makes for a story that drenched in suspense. It is full of action and suspense that doesn’t stop at all. This is definitely a different story that makes for an original read.  This is definitely one to check out.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Light My Fire

Light My Fire by Christie Ridgway

Publisher: Christie Ridgway

July 2014

Pages: 258

Contemporary Rock Romance

California

Rolling Stone magazine once dubbed the nine collective children of the most famous band in the world “Rock Royalty,” years ago.  All the princes and princesses are coming back to L.A.’s Laurel Canyon now that they are all grown up. They are also trying to discover if love can be found among the ruins of their childhoods that was steeped in sex, drugs, and rock ‘n roll.

Ren Colson is a band tour manager that is world-weary. He has left his London business behind for a stay in Southern California.  He never expected to wake up beside Cilla Maddox. Cilla Maddox has managed in the years since their last meeting to turn out sexy as hell. Ren is a man that has been hardened by dark roads, long nights and too many faceless women. He is also convinced that Cilla deserves more than that.

Cilla Maddox never thought to see the bad boy of her dreams again. Next thing she knows he is sharing her home, her air and her bed. He claims he has no heart. Cilla wants it to be hers. Now she needs to see if she can convince him that the flames between them just might signify forever.

This is the start of a series that should prove very interesting.  The characters are interesting and readers will enjoy seeing them get beyond both their pasts and the issues that have resulted from that past.  It will be interesting to see how each one of the Rock Royalty gets past their demons to find the happiness they all want. All the different personalities makes for some very interesting reading.

I give this one 4 red roses

LRH

Darksider

Darksider by Erin Kellison

Publisher: Fire Flower Publishing, LLC

June 2014

Pages: 143

Contemporary Paranormal Romance

Sarafina Rochan is a chef that is about to open her second restaurant and she is sure that is the reason behind her recurring nightmares of pursuit. Soon she has to swallow her pride when a stalker appears in the waking world. She has to risk her heart to call the one man she trusts to go into her dreams.

Harlen Fawkes is a Marshal and when he receives Sera’s call nothing else matters to him. The power of his feelings for her have not eroded with time. When they go Darkside together their connection evokes their longing and desire for each other even after years apart. Sera abandons all her reservations to embrace Harlen even if it is only for one night as the past and present collide.

Harlen aligns himself with disavowed friends so he can protect Sera even though by doing so he is drawn deeper into the secrets and perils of the dreamwaters. Harlen faces his demons with Sera who is determined to fight just as fiercely for the dream of a life together as the tide of darkness rises.

This is proving to be an amazing series that is very different. It is filled with action and suspense and makes for series that is hard to put down. With each book the world building gets more complex and fuller and makes for story that comes alive with each word that is read.  It will be interesting to see where the next book takes readers and just where this series is going to end up at.  Readers that enjoy paranormal romances should check this one out.

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

Ransom Canyon

Ransom Canyon by Jodi Thomas

Publisher: HQN

August 2015

ISBN: 978-0-373-78844-6

Pages: 335

Contemporary Romance

Ransom Canyon & Crossroads, Texas

Staten Kirkland is a rancher and also the last descendant of Ransom Canyon’s founding father.  He is also practical and rugged. When his troubling memoires threaten to overwhelm him he runs to Quinn O’Grady. No one knows that he does so. Quinn is reclusive and lovely and has her own secret that no one living knows about.

Lucas Reyes is young and a ranch hand’s son but he has his eye on the prize of college and a chance to be more. His life is set on a course he hadn’t imagined one night with one wrong decision.

Yancy Grey has a troubled past that he is running hard from.  He doesn’t plan on sticking around Ransom Canyon.  He just wants to be around long enough to learn the town’s weaknesses and how he can use them for his personal gain. He has been a common criminal since he was old enough to reach a car’s pedals. He also isn’t prepared for what he encounters. 

This is a great book that has several stories going that are woven together brilliantly.  It makes for a book that is hard to put done and will have readers happy that it is the start of a series.  The town comes to life with all the characters that live in and around the small town.  It will be interesting to see where the series goes and to see what happens to the characters of the town. For those that enjoy small town romances and western romances this is definitely a book to check out.  It will also have readers wanting to see what else the author has written.

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

Dark Secrets: A Paranormal Noir Anthology

Dark Secrets: A Paranormal Noir Anthology

Publisher: Rashda Khan

September 2015

Pages: 562

Paranormal Romances

Marion, Missing by Rachel Caine

Valentine is a detective.  He is also facing two problems.  He has been offered a kidnapping case that his partner refuses to let him say no to and the case has a strong chance of getting him killed. He figures it is the least he can do for her as she is a ghost and he feels it is his fault she is dead.

Femme Fatale by Cynthia Eden

Mick Swayne is a PI that has had clients that are thieves, liars and even killers so he figures he has seen it all. He feels he can handle anyone and anything.  Then Savannah Moreau walks into his office. She is seductive, beautiful and a vampire? Mick is hired by the gorgeous vamp to help her track down a killer that is hunting in Chicago. With everything step that Mick goes deeper into Savannah’s paranormal world he starts wondering if he can actually trust his new client.

Dance with the Devil by Megan Hart

You better be ready to dance when the devil starts the music.

Kathleen Murphy has fame, fortune and success, everything she has ever dreamed of and all due to the fact she sold her soul to the devil.  Now she just has to do the devil’s bidding. When Jake enters her world the last the thing she wants to do is get him involved in her world even when love comes knocking. Kathleen though has no choice but to learn the steps as the devil has started up the jukebox.

The Consort A Hunt Club novella by Suzanne Johnson

Faulkner Hearne is the captain of the ruthless Fae Hunters.  When he is ordered to capture the consort of Faerie’s cruel Prince of Summer after she flees to modern New Orleans through the veil he finds his duty at odds with this heart. Now Faulk has to decide if he will risk a war with the Faerie to save her or if he will hand her over to certain death at the hands of the prince.

Heart’s Blood by Jeffe Kennedy

The retelling of a princess robbed of husband, rank and even her name. Nix is nothing. Princess Natilde, her former waiting woman, is attacked as she journeyed to wed Prince Cavan. She is stripped of everything and her place is taken. Nix becomes a goose girl as she has no serving skills. Just maybe if Nix keeps her promise to never reveal the truth Natilde won’t carry out her vile threats. When Prince Cavan entered his arranged marriage, he was determined to if not have a loving relationship to at least have a congenial one with his future queen.  At least for their kingdoms. With each day he is more repelled by his wife and is absurdly drawn to the lovely Nix. Cavan and Nix struggle to find the magic to restore what has gone horribly wrong, if they even can, as between them they have anguish, dark secrets and broken vows. 

The Djinn in the Mirror by Mina Khan

With a young witch and a wicked sexy djinn it is a paranormal Cinderella story.

Dahlia is the stepdaughter of a wizard that is power hungry. If a djinn in a mirror will rescue her from impending death she promises to free him. Ashmael, is the djinn and he has his own agenda. He is determined to seduce and trick his way to freedom. There is only one problem with his plan as he ends up falling for Dahlia. Now he has to see if he can win his freedom and save the girl.

This box set will let readers discover some new to them authors and open up some interesting paranormal worlds. While some readers will find a couple of the stories a little disturbing overall the stories are engrossing and with six different books in the set readers will find each one a fast read and can easily read each one during a quick break.  They will also find a lot of the stories staying with them long after they have finished it.  They have action and suspense and different paranormal characters that make for some very interesting reading. Readers will soon find themselves having a new favorite paranormal character.

I give this one 4 red roses

LRH

Amethyst Flame

Amethyst Flame The Flame Series Book 2 by Caris Roane

Publisher: Twin Bridges Creations LLC

September 2015

Pages: 170

Contemporary, Paranormal Romance

Alter world Five Bridges

Vaughn is a vampire Officer with the Crescent Border Patrol when he is called to the deadly place called the Graveyard because of a triple homicide. Warning bells go off for him when he finds out that Emma Delacey is also summoned to the same crime scene. In the alter world of Five Bridges he knows a relationship with the beautiful witch will not be good so he tried to suppress his desire for her. The problem is that no woman since he has become an alter vampire has called to him the way Emma does with her auburn hair and green eyes. Vaughn must face his deepest fears as an evil wizard hounds them both, especially as it seems Emma is the key to saving Vaughn’s sister from a madman’s torture.

This is proving to be a very good series that is very different than most vampire stories.  The world that has come alive in the first two books in the series is proving to be amazing.  The book is filled with action that doesn’t stop until the very end.  It will be interesting to see where this series goes as it has some great secondary characters that if they have their own books will be fascinating. Readers will find the book hard to put down once they start as they will want to find out what is going to happen next and just how things will work out for Vaughn and Emma.

I give this one 4 red roses

LRH

Fatal Affair

Fatal Affair by Marie Force

Publisher: Carina Press

April 2015

ISBN: 978-0-373-00257-3

Pages: 412

Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Washington, DC & Virginia

Detective Sergeant Sam Holland of the Washington, DC, Metro Police had a disastrous investigation and now needs a big win to salvage both her career and confidence.  When Sam is assigned to the case of Senator John O’Connor when he is found murdered in his bed she gets the perfect opportunity. 

When Sam has to team up with Nick Cappuano, O’Connor’s chief of staff and friend matters get complicated. Especially as he is the man she had a memorable one-night stand with years earlier.  Sam has to fight to stay focused on the case as their sexual chemistry still sizzles.  With bodies piling up she can’t afford another mistake like sleeping with a material witness.

This story starts a series off with a bang.  The twists and turns keep coming throughout the story until the very end.  Watching both Sam and Nick work through both their past and issues makes for a book that is extremely hard to put down. Just as the reader thinks they know what is happening and why it is happening and who is behind everything another twist comes to throw everything into doubt.  The story is also action packed and makes for a book that will have readers hooked on the series with just this one book. For readers that love suspense this is definitely one story to check out.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Undaunted

Undaunted by Ronnie Douglas

Publisher: William Morrow

September 2015

ISBN: 978-0-06-238960-2

Pages: 272

Contemporary MC Romance

Williamsville, Tennessee

After her father is indicted for embezzlement Aubrey Evans needs to get her life back on track.  She has a Plan and all she needs to do is follow it by hightailing it out of small-town Tennessee, save up money for college tuition and stay away from hard-muscled boys on motorcycles. Though with someone like Zion there is no ignoring anything. Zion is a knight in black leather and she can’t resist him even if he looks like every bad idea she has been told to avoid. He is always there whenever she is in trouble. The principled, protective man beneath the appealing rough exterior is what tempts her like crazy.

Zion knows Aubrey plans to leave as soon as she can.  He senses the naughty girl that is hiding inside, one whose intense desires match his own even if she is claiming all she wants is friendship. He knows it will only be a matter of time before he can weaken her resolve but until then he will be patient and play by her rules.

With a local crime spree going on they join forces to figure out just what is going on but soon it is clear that the danger goes deeper than Aubrey first thought.  Zion intends to be there for Aubrey now and always especially when she needs someone dark, tall and undaunted to keep her safe.

This is the start of a series that will have readers wanting the next book right now.  The characters, suspense and action prove to be addictive and make for a book that readers will read in one sitting.  They won’t want to put it down for any reason and will stay up late to finish it.  It is a very satisfying read.  It also has some wonderful secondary characters that readers will want to see have their own stories.  This is definitely a must read.

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Luke Armed and Dangerous

Luke Armed and Dangerous by Cheyenne McCray

Publisher: Cheyenne McCray LLC

August 2015

ISBN: 978-1-939778-64-2

Pages: 259

Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Douglas, Arizona

Trinity MacKenna has returned to her family’s ranch in southeastern Arizona after spending four years abroad. With a home in London, practically engaged to a gorgeous English gentleman and a brilliant career, her life is going just the way she planned it.  Then her life is turned upside down when she meets Luke who is a cowboy. He is definitely not part of Trinity’s carefully arranged plans even if everything about him is dark, dangerous, virile and sexy. 

When Luke Denver first sees the sensual strawberry blond he knows he’s got to have her. With Trinity’s combination of boldness, shyness, sophistication and innocence Luke is instantly intrigued by her. Luke is determined to make her his, no matter the cost, even when Trinity tells him she’s taken he won’t let that stop him.

This is the second book in a series that is proving to be addictive with all the action and suspense anyone could ask for.  The characters practically jump off the pages at the reader as they get more and more into the story.  Just as the reader thinks they have it figured out another twist comes along to make them doubt they know where this one is going.  The action is fast paced right up until the very end of the book.  It will also have readers wanting to read the next book just to see where the overall story of the series is going and just what will happen next.  It is also a good idea to have an ice cold glass of water nearby when reading this one. 

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

The Girl Without a Name

The Girl Without a Name by Sandra Block

Publisher: Grand Central

September 2015

ISBN: 978-1-4555-8377-5

Pages: 368

Contemporary, Suspense with some Romantic elements

Buffalo, New York

Dr. Zoe Goldman is having an ordinary day or what passes for one in the psych ward when a highly unusual case arrives.  Wandering on the streets of Buffalo in a catatonic state is a young African American girl that was brought in by police. Zoe’s treatment is the last hope to discover the girl’s identity when all the leads have been exhausted and no one has come forward to claim her.

Zoe takes matters into her own hands to track down Jane Doe’s family and piece together their checkered history when drugs prove ineffective and medical science seems to be failing. Zoe finds monsters hiding where they are least expected as she unearths their secrets. Before it is too late Zoe has to solve the mystery. Someone is trying to make sure that this young girl never remembers.

This is an amazing story that keeps the reader guessing just what happened to Jane Doe.  As the different threads of the story pull together it makes for a story that is very hard to forget.  The characters move the story along at a fast pace and seeing Zoe as she races to find the truth before it is too late provides a book that is very hard to put down.  The characters come alive for the reader with every word that is read.  For readers that enjoy suspense books this is definitely one to check out.  This one keeps the twists and turns coming and they don’t stop until the very end. 

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Blood Flame

Blood Flame by Caris Roane

Publisher: Twin Bridges Creations, LLC

August 2015

Pages: 166

Contemporary Paranormal Romance

Alternate Phoenix, Arizona

Connor is an officer with the Crescent Border Patrol. He is also a vampire. Though at the moment he is trying to suppress his desire for Iris Meldeere who is a powerful witch.  He can’t fall in love with a woman that has the power to kill him with just the tips of her fingers, can he? Soon they are thrown together while they are working a double homicide. Connor finds his deepest fantasies fulfilled when Iris succumbs to his seduction. Love begins consuming them both as they battle together to stay alive.  With the dark secrets of his past he has to wonder if the witch will be able to forgive them. 

This is the start of a new series that starts out fast and doesn’t stop until the very end.  The world building is fascinating and complex.  It makes for a story that the reader will get wrapped up in as they read to find out just what is going on and who is behind what is happening. While both Iris and Connor are both damaged by their pasts it is engrossing to see them work to get past their past so that they can find a happy future together.  It will have readers wanting to read more from this world. 

I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

LRH

The Young Elites

The Young Elites by Marie Lu

Publisher: Putnam

October 2014

ISBN: 978-0-399-16783-6

Pages: 355

Fantasy Romantic YA

Adelina Amouteru survived the blood fever.  The deadly illness swept through her nation a decade ago.  While most of the infected perished the children who survived ended up with strange markings on them.  Adelina was left with a jagged scar where her left eye once was, her black hair turned silver and her lashes went pale. Her cruel father sees her as malfetto, an abomination.  He is also convinced that she is ruining the family’s good name and standing in the way of their fortune. There are rumors that some of the fever’s survivors have more than just scars.  They are believed to have powerful and mysterious gifts. They are also called the Young Elites, though their identities are kept secret.

Teren Santoro is the Leader of the Inquisition Axis. He also works for the king.  It is his job to seek out the Young Elites and destroy them before they can destroy the nation. He believes the Young Elites are dangerous and vengeful.  Though it is Teren that just might possess the darkest secret of all.

Enzo Valenciano is a member of the Dagger Society.  It is within this secret sect, who also are some of the Young Elites that they seek out others like them before the Inquisition Axis can find them. The Daggers discover someone with powers the like they have never seen when they find Adelina. 

Adelina would like to believe that Teren is the true enemy and that Enzo is on her side.  As each fights a very different and personal battle they will find their lives colliding in unexpected ways.  Though one thing they all agree on is that Adelina abilities don’t belong in this world. There is a vengeful blackness in her heart. She also desires to destroy all who dare cross her.

This proves to be a very addictive book to read.  The characters and world building expand with each word read.  The story takes some very interesting twists and turns that keep the reader turning the pages just to see where this one is headed.  While there is a slight cliffhanger at the end it works very well with the story line and will have readers eagerly awaiting the next book to come out.  The reader really gets to understand Adelina and why she does what she does.  Readers will also want things to work out for Adelina. 

I give this one 5 red roses

LRH

Suspicions

Suspicions The Battling McGuire Boys by Cynthia Eden

Publisher: Harlequin

September 2015

ISBN: 978-0-373-69855-4

Pages: 224

Contemporary Romantic Suspense

Austin, Texas

Mark Montgomery still remembers the night Ava McGuire galloped onto his ranch terrified out of her mind nor will he ever forget.  The hardest part after saving his best friend’s sister from harm was letting her go.  Ava is now back looking for a safe haven again.  The desire that is rekindled between them is about to engulf them both.

Ava is uncovering the truth about that long-ago night but it also plunges her into a world where she can trust no one.  Except maybe Mark who she has been in love with for years.  Mark has secrets. Now the question is will those secrets be their downfall as the passion they share draws them closer together even as a vengeful killer stalks them.

This book proves to be just as great as the other books in the series. This is proving to be series that stays with readers long after they finish each book.  It will also have readers wanting the next book in the series now to find out what will happen next.  This is proving to be a very addictive series that grabs readers by the throat and doesn’t let go until the last page and then only until the next book comes out.  For readers that enjoy romantic suspense books this is definitely a must read.  It will also have readers wanting more from this author. 

I give this one 5 plus red roses

LRH