MARRIAGE AT THE MILLIONAIRE'S COMMAND - Anne Oliver

Title: MARRIAGE AT THE MILLIONAIRE’S COMMAND

Author: ANNE OLIVER

Line: Harlequin Presents & Mills and Boon Modern Extra

Release month North America/: June 2008
UK: December 2006 Australia/NZ: April 07 (One Night before Marriage)

The S-Factor: Sizzling and Sweet

The tall, slim blonde seems the perfect diversion for ruggedly handsome hotel magnate Ben Jamieson. He'll bed Carissa Grace on a strictly no-strings basis.

Carissa and Ben soon embark on an all-consuming affair. But for Ben, that's all this can ever be—passionate, but temporary. However, when Carissa finds she's pregnant, Ben demands that she marry him! Even if it is just for their baby's sake….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Carissa Grace is a lovely and talented classical pianist, she’s dedicated to keeping the family home left to her by her grandmother, and she’s loyal to her sister and can’t wait for her fiancé to return from France. Then she receives the news, he not returning; he’s found someone else. So she takes a look at her situation and makes a decision, she’s going to meet some one, have a one night of passion and then move on. Enter Ben Jamieson, tall, rugged, handsome, and wealthy with his sights on the beautiful blonde piano player; he’s got the same idea, a one night stand! They have a drink; go upstairs to Ben’s penthouse and the earth moves for Carissa

Carissa realizes she’s in trouble, she’s working two jobs and still not enough money to make all of the repairs on the house so she advertises for a border and as fate would have it, Ben applies for a room; with a push from her sister, she agrees to allow Ben to stay in her home. Can they both fight their attraction for each other; try to forget their night of passion? It’s an absolutely lovely journey they embark on, getting to know each other, becoming lovers and then everything comes to a full stop when Carissa finds out she’s pregnant.

Ben Jamison is one sexy and troubled man…..he’s recovering from loosing his dear friend Rave who in earlier years he rescued and who was like his brother. Rave made some bad choices and ended up dying and leaving behind a wife and child. In a way, Ben blames himself; Ben is a composer and has lost the desire due to the accident plus his past family life. However, when he learns that he’s going to be a father, he insists he and Carissa marry. Carissa realizes after spending time with Ben she loves him but believes without him loving her back, can their marriage last?

You will relish in their joy of becoming parents, watch their respect for each other grow, feel their sadness and pain and rejoice in their found love! Anne Oliver is a very talented author, she will have you smiling and crying in her Marriage at the Millionaire’s Command but the most favourite part of this book for this reader was their healing and the warmth Ben and Carissa experienced.


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About the Book from Anne Oliver: “I loved the idea of a one-night stand that culminates in marriage. I wrote One Night before Marriage over an eighteen month period of upheaval in my life, including the death of my father. During Dad’s time in hospital and subsequent nursing home after breaking his hip and the onset of dementia following surgery, I wrote the scene in the book where the hero Ben, visits his mother. It was a personally challenging scene to write. At times I felt I couldn’t go on writing. Without the help and encouragement of my critique group I don’t know when I would have finished it."

HIS MISTRESS BY ARRANGEMENT - Natalie Anderson

Title: HIS MISTRESS BY ARRANGEMENT

Author: NATALIE ANDERSON

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS

Release month North America/UK: June 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sexy

Jake Rendel is a successful millionaire who works and plays hard—unlike Emma Delaney, who's stifled by her uninspiring job. So Jake makes Emma a proposition to shake off her prim-and-proper image: for a month, they'll pretend to have a steamy affair!Emma's out of her depth—and things quickly get passionate in private as well as in public. Soon the girl-next-door is wishing the month of mistress make-believe will never end….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

All of her life Emma Delaney had to live up to her father’s expectations, work…..achieve…..be the best and she’s not only become a workaholic, she has no social life and her co-workers look at her as a “buttoned-up” and uptight person.

Jake Rendel is someone from her past, a neighbour and his sister is Emma Delaney’s sister’s best friend. As a young girl she adored him and now he’s here at the hotel where she works and he’s going to be in charge of the renovation! He’s handsome, sexy, and full of charm and every woman on the property is drooling over this self made man and millionaire. Emma also remembers how Jake took care of his mother and family and also remembers the “crush” she had on Jake.

Upon seeing Emma and watching how her co-workers treat her Jake’s heart aches for her. He can still remember how harsh her father was with Emma and her sister, always pushing them to be the best and Jake felt her father never appreciated Emma and her achievements. In fact, he remembered back to one day when as a young girl he found her crying because her report card did not have perfect marks. And now, he finds he’s going to be working with her and observes how her female co-workers look at her so he decides he’s going to help her by pretending to be her lover. Can Jake provide a little fun in her life, get rid of her bad rep with her co-workers and help transform her, make her believe in herself?

His Mistress by Arrangement was a beautiful love story, it’ was the chase, their attraction for each other and how everything backfired for both of them. It touched me deeply as the book is actually a journey in self discovery for Emma and the realization of how she had put her dreams and hidden them from everyone especially those who meant the most to her, her family and all because they wanted her to be successful so they could brag. As for Jake, this incredible man wanted only the best for Emma, he wanted her to have those dreams, trying to teach her to take a risk and if she wasn’t the best, he would still love and support her. As for Emma, could she fight that fear and ask for what she wanted? You are going to want to read this wonderfully written love story by Natalie Anderson as it is so moving, emotional and the happy ending spectacular!


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Reviewed by: Marilyn Shoemaker

The Tycoon's Very Personal Assistant

Title: The Tycoon’s Very Personal Assistant
Author: Heidi Rice
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat
Release month: July 2008
The S-Factor:Simmering
Back-Blurb:

From a compromising position…

Kate Denton was stranded in a Nevada hotel with nothing but her underwear and her passport! She desperately needed some money to pay for a flight home, so she threw herself on the mercy of the hotel owner: dark, brooding, incredibly sexy Zack Boudreaux… …to a position in the boss’s office…

The feisty English girl was so full of outraged indignation Zack was certain she was no hooker, despite first appearances. He’d given her a bathrobe, but she was also insisting he gave her a job… And after seeing those tantalising knickers he struck a deal: for two weeks she would be at his beck and call as his very personal assistant.
Preferably without the knickers…

Review:

If it’s sassy, sexy, contemporary and fun romantic fiction you’re after, then Heidi Rice’s books should be at the very top of your list!

Feisty English girl Kate Denton doesn’t make a habit out of hanging round hotels in her knickers. But when her boss leaves her stranded in a Nevada hotel with no money and no clothes, Kate finds herself in the embarrassing position of having to do the one thing which is loathe to do: ask for help.

Help comes in the shape of rich, seductive and drop dead gorgeous hotelier Zack Boudreaux, who makes it quite clear that he’s dangerously attracted to Kate and that he can’t wait to get up close and personal to her – and preferably when she isn’t wearing any knickers!

A no-strings affair ensues, but when love rears its head, Zack and Kate realize that they’ve first got to confront their demons before they can move forward…

The Tycoon’s Very Personal Assistant is a terrific Modern Heat from one of the imprint’s most-talented writers. Witty, sexy, funny and absolutely unputdownable, The Tycoon’s Very Personal Assistant is another fabulous read from a wonderful writer whose star is rising fast: Heidi Rice!

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HIRED: THE SHEIKH'S SECRETARY MISTRESS - Lucy Monroe

Title: HIRED: THE SHEIKH’S SECRETARY MISTRESS (Royal Bride series)

Author: Lucy Monroe

Line: Harlequin Presents & Mills and Boon Modern Romance - August 2008


The S-Factor: Simmering & Sweet


Claimed by the Sheikh — for marriage!

Sheikh Amir bin Faruq al Zorha lives in New York City, but the desert is where his heart lies. Now the time has come for him to marry...

Grace Brown is Amir's plain but indispensable assistant. She's in love with him, but knows she's not what the Sheikh is looking for when it comes to a wife...

Grace is the only woman Amir trusts. But no matter how tempted he is to take her innocence — she's strictly off limits... Until he returns to his homeland of Zorha...where the barbarian prince replaces the businessman— and resolves that Grace will be his!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Only one way to describe it……an exceptionally sweet romance featuring an innocent woman who doesn’t see herself as being worthy of a handsome prince’s love. He’s her boss, her very best friend and she loves and adores him and for Grace Brown the past five years working for him, travelling with him, getting to know his family has been heaven. He’s changed her world and “filled it with light, warmth and sound”.

In Lucy’s July release Forbidden: The Billionaire’s Virgin Princess the reader was introduced to Princess Lina and the handsome, rich, playboy…… Sheik Amir. Both of their parents arranged a marriage between them but Lina fooled them all by falling in love and marrying her bodyguard Hawk. So now Sheikh Amir is not going to let his family arrange another marriage. He adores his personal assistant, he trusts her and he’s going to break her heart by asking her to find him a wife!

Amir decides he needs to return home to Zorha to see his family and also set his “marriage” plans in motion. He can’t deny he has inner feelings for Grace, he certainly considers her more than a PA and close friend and for reasons he can’t put his finger on, he’s sexually attracted to her and fights his urge to act upon it. He knows if he does, he’ll loose not only his PA but friend. He seeks the counsel of his eldest brother and admits his feelings and attraction, but what to do?

As for Grace, she loves Amir deeply and in the end agrees to find some candidates based on his requirements……beauty, intelligence, social standing and most important a marriage of convenience not love. Years ago, Amir loved deeply and his beloved was taken by him in death. He vows never again! Because Grace is devoted and wants him happy she agrees but with a price, she’s going to give her resignation.

What transpires you are not going to want to miss as Grace decides to go for broke…….transform herself, put herself on the list……..it’s final chapters, well let’s just say, amazing as only Lucy Monroe can pen.


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Reviewed by: Marilyn Shoemaker

FORBIDDEN: THE BILLIONAIRE'S VIRGIN PRINCESS - Lucy Monroe

Title: FORBIDDEN: THE BILLIONAIRE’S VIRGIN PRINCESS

Author: Lucy Monroe

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America & UK: July 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual


Sebastian Hawk is a master in business and in the bedroom. There is no place for emotion in his world.
Lina is a headstrong and reckless princess in need of protection and Sebastian is called in to provide round-the-clock security. Her provocative innocence is too enticing, and Sebastian loses his legendary self—control and beds her…only to discover she's still a virgin….
Royal Brides - An innocent princess — claimed by a hot-blooded billionaire!


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

I’ve read every book in Lucy Monroe’s Royal Bride series and they only get better and better and more interesting. In Forbidden: The Billionaire’s Virgin Princess Sebastian Hawk and Lina Marwan are equally matched in sensuality, spirit and in their attraction for each other. In each chapter I couldn’t wait to see if Lina was going to out-smart Hawk as he was hired to be her bodyguard to watch over her and to also watch over her security team her family had hired.

As a small child, Lina was sent away from her home to live in the US with her aunt and uncle. She’s never felt a part of her family; she’s felt neglected, unwanted with the exception of the care her US relatives have given her and from time to time, her brother who infrequently. She’s been sheltered, watched over like a hawk and now she wants to spread her wings. However, the only way she can do that is to outsmart her security team and her new bodyguard Hawk has figured her out!
Hawk is one hot man! He’s exceptional at his job, owns his own security company, is well respected in the industry and wants no part of a relationship. He’s learned from the women in his life not to trust and to keep his relationships short and sweet. Now he’s been hired by the Sheik to watch over his daughter who’s attending college so he makes sure he literally bumps into her, sparks fly between them…..it’s immediate attraction for both of them, Lina so innocent and Hawk so “experienced” and it’s a battle of wills, lust and a love story you’re not going to want to miss!

Throughout the entire book I was rooting for them and you will as well because their attraction is so immediate and powerful. Hawk is torn every step of the way; he fights his attraction for Lina and in the end it’s an emotional breakup and farewell. What was incredible to read was Lina’s journey in self discovery, how she grew emotionally and outsmarted them all! This author has a gift for drawing her readers into the story and this book is no exception. In the end, let’s just say, their reunion years later is emotional and tender as only Lucy Monroe can portray and this book is a love story at it’s best! Cheers to Lucy and her Royal Brides!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn Shoemaker

Link to the trailer: http://www.veoh.com/videos/v12063278KPpTqYKG

THE AUSTRALIAN MILLIONAIRE'S LOVE-CHILD - Robyn Grady

Title: THE AUSTRALIAN MILLIONAIRE’S LOVE-CHILD

Author: Robyn Grady

Line: Harlequin Presents US & Mills and Boon Modern Romance UK– July 2008

The S-Factor: Sexy & Sensual


Sophie Gruebella is happy with her single life— until she overhears her friends discussing why she's still single! Could this be why she falls into bed with a man who's her complete opposite?
Cooper Smith is as driven as he's drop-dead gorgeous! Cooper has life all planned out and his night with Sophie was amazing, but—on mutual agreement—not to be repeated.
Three months later: the stick has turned pink. Sophie's expecting…and Cooper has just proposed a shotgun marriage….


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Robyn Grady continues to deliver an emotional and entertaining story in The Australian Millionaire’s Love-Child. The reader is introduced to Sophie who is attending a friend’s wedding shortly after a break-up with her boyfriend; on top of that, she’s feeling insecure about herself and the extra weight she’s gained; not to mention old friends comments about her situation. However, in the end it makes her realize she needs to make some changes and take charge of her life!

We’ve all been there at one time in our lives, single….attending a lovely wedding…..no date and that “horrible” bouquet toss for those single! Talk about embarrassing! Yes, you guessed it, Sophie’s was feeling the same way so she tried to be inconspicuous and didn’t join the group. However, little did she know the bouquet was not caught but would land in her lap and on top of everything else, Sophie didn’t realize that the most gorgeous man she’d ever set eyes on would overhear her friends discussing her lack of a boyfriend or the pounds she had put on!

Enter Cooper Smith to the rescue. Cooper is not only tall, dark and handsome, he’s a man who decides to take action and rescue Sophie, by physically swooping her up in his arms, and kissing her in front of the wedding guests. They both decide to have a nightcap in Cooper’s penthouse, learn a little about each other and that’s when Sophie learns that Cooper is a driven and successful attorney, one with a plan……he’s looking for a wife, wants a family and has made a list of requirements, none of which appeal to Sophie; just the man himself and oh what a man! One thing leads to another and they end up making love all night. From the beginning they both realize they want different things and as they say, they are both opposites and disagree about what’s important in a marriage……for Sophie its love and for Cooper compatibility, an agreeable and stay at home wife and at least children. So at the end of their evening, they agree to go their separate ways.

So, that’s the beginning of this enchanting and dazzling love story. What I felt made this book so remarkable was the way Robyn Grady gave the reader a deep emotional connection to the story and the characters. The way she developed the relationship between Cooper and Sophie and the new found knowledge they would soon be parents will have you reading this story from cover to the end. What’s even better is how they deal with their differences in opinion, and Cooper’s manipulation and dominance. For Sophie she wonders is she "the pre-wrapped package” or is she his destiny? Can they make this relationship work? Can they find love? Hopefully you’ll read and find out the answers and enjoy The Australian Millionaire’s Love-Child as much as I did…..you’ll laugh, cry, get exasperated with Cooper and love Sophie!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn Shoemaker

SPANISH BILLIONAIRE, INNOCENT WIFE - Kate Walker

Title: SPANISH BILLIONAIRE, INNOCENT WIFE

Author: KATE WALKER

Line: Harlequin Presents: USA June 2008
Mills and Boon Modern Romance: UK March 2008-06-26

The S-Factor: Simmering & Sensual

Raul Esteban has always wanted Alannah.

She is purity and passion combined! But she rejected him, and now the proud Spanish aristocrat is determined that she will pay for her mistake—with her body!

Raul mistakenly believes Alannah is no longer a naive girl—until one night of passion proves he has taken her virginity! Now Raul will do whatever it takes to keep her at his mercy….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

The Spanish Billionaire, Innocent Wife was not only full of passion as only Kate Walker can write it also was moving, full of tension with extremely believable characters. What touched me the most was Raul, he was so vulnerable with his feelings for Alannah yet intensely angry. Even though he displayed his Alpha characteristics he touched me because his feelings for her were hidden inside from the moment she lied and left him he never really got over the pain or loss. Raul’s love for his sister, his lost brother and his desire to produce an heir for his father will move anyone reading this incredibly beautiful love story.

From the moment one begins reading this story set in a hospital where Alannah mourns her dead brother and friend, Lorena who turns out to be Raul’s sister who has also passed, you just know that when Raul arrives on the scene the tension is going to explode……and it does with seismic force.

As their story unfolds before the reader’s eyes, the sexual tension, the emotion, the pain of their love for each other will rip out your heart especially when Alannah’s feelings about her love for Raul, her wanting to give him an heir and her uncertainly of his feelings for her, well trust me you won’t want to miss reading this wonderful and moving story.

The Spanish Billionaire, Innocent Wife is just another example of the amazing Kate Walker and her sensual and entertaining love stories.

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About the Book:

As Kate states in her blog post dated 6/19/09 “Sometimes there is a personal element to a book. A piece of the story that relates to something in my own life, something close to my heart that I've woven into it. And it does seem that when this happens, it creates a book that resonates with readers particularly strongly.” KW 6/08

In this case it relates to an accident of someone very close to Kate and I encourage you to stop by Kate’s blog and read the post…..it’s amazing. http://kate-walker.blogspot.com/

Reviewed by Marilyn Shoemaker

VIKING WARRIOR, UNWILLING WIFE by MICHELLE STYLES

Title: Viking Warrior, Unwilling Wife
Author: Michelle Styles
Line: Mills and Boon Historical Romance
Release month: June 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

The warrior’s conquest

With the war drums echoing in her ears, and the sharp northern light glinting off the sharpened swords, Sela stood with trepidation on the shoreline. The dragon ships full of warriors had come, ready for battle and glory.

But it wasn’t the threat of conquest that shook Sela to the core. It was the way her heart responded to the proud face and chiselled body of Vikar Hrutson, jaarl, leader of the invading force – and Sela’s ex-husband!

Review:

From Michelle Styles’ terrific pen comes a passionate, romantic, exciting and fast-paced historical romance which will leave you breathless: Viking Warrior, Unwilling Wife.

Four years ago, Sela had walked out on her husband, even though she was carrying his child – a child he knows nothing about till this very day. Having returned home to her father, Bose the Dark, Sela had hoped to start afresh and to put her husband behind her. But every time she looks into her son’s eyes, she finds herself reliving the passion which she had found in her husband’s arms.

But Sela has got more on her mind than her former husband. Her father is at death’s door and dragon ships full of enemy warriors are approaching her home – and leading them is her former husband Vikar!

Vikar is still as handsome as ever and when he spots his former wife, he has only one thing on his mind – seduction!

Whether she’s writing about Vikings, Gladiators or Victorians, Michelle Styles has an uncanny ability of making each and every historical period her own! In her latest historical, she has once again delivered a full-bodied engrossing tale readers will just not be able to put down.

Pleasured by the Secret Millionaire by Natalie Anderson

Title: Pleasured by the Secret Millionaire
Author: Natalie Anderson
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat
Release month: June 2008
The S-Factor:Simmering

Back-Blurb:

One night of hot loving…

Gorgeous millionaire Rhys Maitland is tired of women throwing themselves at him just because his name equates to success, power and wealth… When he meets beauty Sienna Rendel, Rhys decides to hide the truth, and insists on being with her for one night only…

…will have them both coming back for more! But Sienna’s got her own secrets…

Dressing carefully to conceal the scar that plagues her life, she’s quite happy with Rhys’s offer of fast, furious and amazing lovemaking! She doesn’t know she’s being pleasured by a secret millionaire, but when she and Rhys realise one night isn’t enough, they’ll have to strip themselves bare – in every sense!

Review:

Natalie Anderson’s sizzling Modern Heat novels just keep getting better and better. In her latest romance, Pleasured by the Secret Millionaire, she blends sizzling sexual chemistry, scintillating sex scenes, intense romance and poignant emotional development which will keep readers everywhere glued to their seats!

Sienna Rendel has had enough of her mother and brother treating her like a fragile little flower, so she leaves New Zealand behind, waves goodbye to her old life, and heads off to Australia where she hopes to have some fun and not be treated like an invalid. Top of the list on her priorities is finding a hot guy with whom to have a no-strings affair with – and as luck would have it, she meets just the guy!

Rhys Monroe is sexy, charismatic and drop dead gorgeous, but little does Sienna know that, just like her, he’s got a devastating secret of his own: he’s not a brickie, but a millionaire doctor whose family is one of Australia’s richest dynasties!

How’s Sienna going to react when she finds out that he’s lied to her? And will Rhys ever learn to trust anyone with his heart?

Pleasured by the Secret Millionaire is a truly terrific read! Hot, steamy, romantic and poignant, readers looking for a sexy read to heat up their summer nights will not be disappointed with the latest outstanding contemporary romance by New Zealand’s hottest romance writer: Natalie Anderson!


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Hot Nights with a Playboy by Nicola Marsh

Title: Hot Nights with the Playboy
Author: Nicola Marsh
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat
Release month: June 2008
The S-Factor:Simmering
Back-Blurb:

Working by day…

Abby Weiss could make her name as a stylist to the stars on a two-week photo shoot in a tropical island paradise. Even better, Judd Calloway, her best friend, will be the photographer. Nothing could be more fun than working with him…

Naughty by night!
…except spending hot, sexy, passionate nights with him! In the years since they last met Judd’s become a charming, muscled, gorgeous hunk! Abby can’t keep her hands off him – and the attraction’s mutual. And now Judd’s got a proposal that he hopes will keep her right where he wants her: in his bed!

Review: If you’re looking for a romance that’s hot, sexy, modern and utterly delicious, then you’ll love Nicola Marsh’s latest Modern Heat: Hot Nights with a Playboy!

As children, Abby Weiss and Judd Calloway had been the best of friends who had bonded over their screwed up parents, miserable childhoods and their desire to get as far away from small town Australia as possible. As teenagers, their friendship almost developed into something more, but Abby and Judd had pulled back at the very last minute, and although they’re still the very best of friends that spark of dangerous attraction still sizzles between the two of them!

Now, Abby and Judd have been thrown in close proximity together on a tropical island for a two-week photo shoot. Seeing her best friend in a tight pair of swimming trunks and his toned torso glistening under the sizzling sun only increase Abby’s desire for Judd. But while Judd makes it clear that he’s more than willing to have her in his bed, he is adamant that theirs will be a no-strings sexual affair.

But, the more time Judd spends with Abby, the more he realizes that commitment is beginning to like a whole lot of fun!

I adore Nicola Marsh’s stories because even though they are fresh, feel-good, flirty and modern, they still have that deep, emotional core that will ensure that readers of all ages will enjoy reading her stories. Featuring a sexy hero, a lovely heroine and plenty of drama, laughs and humour, Hot Nights with a Playboy is the perfect book to pack in your beach bag this summer!


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CARETTI'S FORCED BRIDE - Jennie Lucas

Title: CARETTI’S FORCED BRIDE

Author: JENNIE LUCAS

Line: Mills and Boon Modern and Harlequin Presents

Release month North America: August 2008; UK/Australia: May 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering & Very Sensual



He'll take his revenge. He'll be ruthless. He'll make her ready for the taking!
Dark, devilish, rich and ruthless, Paolo Caretti isn’t ashamed of his roots. But he’s ashamed that he once loved a woman who thought she was better than him. Now Isabelle needs him, and Paolo has a thirst for revenge…
She’ll be his bride. She’ll do his bidding. She’ll be happy in his bed!Princess Isabelle de Luceran – she knows she hurt Paolo and it broke her heart. She also knows his help has a price. And when he discovers the true depth of her deceit she’ll be destroyed by his vengeance…
They’ll make vows. They’ll make love. They’ll find love springs from hate!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Yet again, Jennie Lucas delivers a wonderful story full of passion, anger, secrets, pride…..just a very enjoyable and moving love story set in the Mediterranean and surrounded by castles, villas, lush country side and the sea.

Princess Isabelle de Luceran is bound by duty and honor to her Country and her family. Even though her heart was ripped apart years ago when she left the only man she’d ever loved. Isabelle had refused his proposal and in the end let her sister talk her into giving up the baby she had conceived with Paolo, making him heir to the throne. It’s not bad enough that her sister and her husband recently died in an acccident……now their 9 year old son has been kidnapped. She can only trust one man to do the job and that’s her past and only lover Paola Caretti. So she returns to the US and begs him to come home with her to save her nephew, which of course he does but with a price.

Paulo Caretti is ruthless, handsome, and rich and wants Isabelle. Years ago he loved her and proposed marriage and in the end, she refused and returned to her country. Now Paolo can seek revenge and his plan is for Isabelle to become his mistress, get her pregnant and marry her at all costs. Paolo accepts his passion for her but vows never to be caught up in love again. Love hurts and Paolo knows this first hand……from his ruthless father, from the mother who abandoned him and from the only woman he ever love who walked out on him!

What neither of them counts on is their powerful attraction, lust and the passion which goes up in flames when they are together. What they also don’t count on is that they can’t leave each other alone so the affair continues and they are splashed all over media which doesn’t sit well with Isabelle’s family and country.

There is so much anguish, hurt and at times it broke my heart. Their passion will take your breath away and in the end when they resolve their past, secrets and the issues facing them are resolved, you’ll stand up and cheer! Caretti’s Forced Bride is one book you won’t want to miss and I’m hopeful that Jennie will continue on with a series as all of the characters were wonderful, each with a story of their own, I’m sure!

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About the Book - From Jennie’s Website:

Like most girls, I dreamed of being a princess. I was seven years old when my mother woke me up to see Princess Diana’s fairy-tale wedding televised from half the world away. Now I see my own young daughter prancing around the house in fancy dresses and tiaras.

But being a princess isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be, is it? A life can feel so different on the inside than it might look on the outside. You only have to look at Grace Kelly or Princess Diana to realize that.

In Caretti’s Forced Bride, Isabelle is beloved and worshipped as the most beautiful princess in the whole world. She is fashionable, beautiful, adored. Surrounded by paparazzi. But in spite of that, she’s very lonely. She’s lost nearly everyone she loves. And she carries the heavy weight of a secret.

Is it possible to be a princess trapped in a castle—but still be happy? Maybe if you have the right prince…

Reviewed by: Marilyn

KING OF THE DESERT, CAPTIVE BRIDE - Jane Porter

Title: KING OF THE DESERT, CAPTIVE BRIDE

Author: JANE PORTER

Line: Harlequin Presents – Desert Kings
(book 2) Mills & Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: May 2008; UK / Australia: March 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering & Sweet



When Sheikh Khalid Fehr rescues innocent Olivia Morse from the hands of his country's enemies, he guarantees her freedom by announcing she is his betrothed….
Khalid has vouched for Liv with his honor… and this desert king is determined that his new wife will fulfill her marital duties, by his side as his regal queen…and as his captive virgin bride!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

In Jane's the Sheikh's Chosen Queen (book 1) you were introduced to King Sharif Fehr and his wife Jesslyn. Jesslyn was friends with Sharif's two sisters who were killed when they were all three on a trip. The family was devastated, especially his brother Khalid Fehr, who now resides in the Great Sarq Desert.

Khalid has never gotten over the loss so when he reads a post on the Internet from a brother who lives in the US, looking for his sister, Khalid's heart twists. After some research and investigation, he finds out she's been arrested and is now in a prison. Determined to free her, he stakes his honor, his familes as well to obtain her pardon. However, from the moment of Olivia Morse's release, everything goes wrong and so in order not to have Olivia returned to prison, Khalid states that she is his fiancé and they are to be married. All sorts of questions arise with the government and his family.....is she a thief, a drug smuggler, and why would he want to marry when he's always told his family never!

Their journey actually begins in Cairo and then a wonderful river trip on the Nile, sights one dreams of seeing; history, color, artifacts, temples, bazaars, foods.....a dream come true for Olivia who is a travel agent from a small southern town. It's a journey of exploration for them both.....trust, yearning, fear, the unknown factor if Olivia will be able to marry or go back to prison.

For Olivia is not just the adventure, it's finding out about herself, it's about falling for a man she doesn't understand, it's about honor, family and in the end love. It's a romantic adventure as only Jane Porter can write to exotic ports and places with an incredible honor bound sheikh, Khalid Fehr you'll adore!


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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE SPANIARD'S DEFIANT VIRGIN - Jennie Lucas

Title: THE SPANIARD'S DEFIANT VIRGIN

Author: JENNIE LUCAS

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS – Innocent Mistress, Virgin Bride series

Modern Romance – Mills and Boon

Release month: North America: June 2008; UK / Australia: November 2007

The S-Factor: Simmering & Sensual


In his Spanish castillo Marcos Ramirez has been planning his retribution for the Winters family…. And now it's time.

Marcos will take Tamsin and destroy her family. But Tamsin isn't the hedonistic society girl he expected. She's beautiful and courageous—bedding her will be sweet. And it's then that Marcos realizes Tamsin's a virgin, and innocent of all she's been accused of!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Marcos Ramirez is truly a “dark angel”! This Spanish alpha is to die for, he’s angry, he’s seeking revenge and yet he has a protective and extremely sexy side, he’ll melt your heart.

Tasmin is misunderstood by the press and all of London. She’s been deemed a wild heiress, a flirt and a spoiled beauty and actually she’s none of these…..she’s got a secret and she’ll do anything that has to be done to protect a family member. When Tasmin is kidnapped by the “dark angel” she realizes she is indeed in trouble because if she doesn’t follow her step brother’s instructions to marry the nephew of the sheikh to save the family business, she’ll not only be on the receiving end of his wrath she’ll not be able to protect her ten year old sister from her families abuse.

Marcos is seeking revenge, revenge for the loss of his family due to the Winters family greed and that of Aziz the nephew of the sheikh. He kidnaps Tasmin and is seeking revenge and plans to ruin Aziz and Tasmin’s brother’s business. What neither of them counts on is their strong attraction for each other and in the end they act upon it and can’t seem to stay away from each other.

When the time comes to set the revenge plan in motion, everything is turned upside down. You will be holding your breath during the last few chapters, trying to figure out the outcome. Trust me, it’s thrilling, full of suspense and passion, pleasure and you’ll be shedding some tears as well. It’s a lesson for all to learn……leave the past behind and look towards the future and thanks to Jennie Lucas and The Spaniard’s Defiant Virgin one will see how Marcos gives up revenge for love.

A quote from Mahatma Gandhi: “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

Wanted: White Wedding by Natasha Oakley

Title: Wanted: White Wedding
Author: Natasha Oakley
Line: Harlequin Romance
Release month: May/June 2008
The S-Factor: Sweet
Back-Blurb:

Seeing Daniel Ramsey struggle with fatherhood makes memories of Freya's past come flooding back. Freya was a wild child, but on the inside she always dreamed of happy ever afters and white weddings. It was a way to escape the troubles of home. Now she's grown up, stunning and successful, and she knows she can help Daniel and his daughter.

But Freya's afraid of getting too close.… She still has her secrets, locked up tight. Could it be that after all these years, she's met the man who has the ability to see straight into her heart?

Review:

The wonderful Natasha Oakley is back with a brand new Harlequin Romance that will tug at your heartstrings and hold you spellbound until the final sentence: Wanted: White Wedding.

Freya Anthony knows that the people of Fellingham haven’t forgotten her wild child past. She’s well aware of the gossip and sniggers which surround her return, but her beloved grandmother Margaret needs her, and she isn’t going to let a bunch of nosy parkers with nothing better to do with their lives, prevent her from helping the one woman who’s always cared and been there for her.

On her arrival, Freya learns that Margaret wants to sell some of her antiques to local auctioneer Daniel Ramsay, and when Freya visits his auction house, she’s less than impressed! How can Daniel runs a serious business from a ramshackle building?
But Freya’s got other things to worry about: her attraction to the gorgeous Daniel!
Charismatic, charming and drop dead gorgeous, Freya begins to fall for the handsome auctioneer. However, will Freya and Daniel let their pasts and responsibilities push them away? Or will they realize that theirs is a love that will last a lifetime?

Wanted: White Wedding is an absolutely terrific contemporary romance by one of my favourite romance writers! Moving, tender, sweet, poignant and totally absorbing, Wanted: White Wedding is a captivating tale of renewal, new beginnings and happy endings from a writer who never fails to deliver enthralling romance!

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THE GREEK TYCOON'S CONVENIENT BRIDE - Kate Hewitt

Title: THE GREEK TYCOON'S CONVENIENT BRIDE

Author: Kate Hewitt

Line: Harlequin Presents and Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: April 2008; UK / Australia: March 2007

The S-Factor: Simmering & Sensual

Back-Blurb:

Rhiannon Davies's plan was to reunite her late friend's baby with the infant's Greek father, then return home…alone. Instead Lukas whisks them away to his private island! Soon Rhiannon falls under the spell of the sun, sea—and the ruthless tycoon himself. Caught up in a wave of desire for the devastatingly handsome Lukas, she finds herself agreeing to marriage—with a man who has made it clear he'll never love her….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Kate is another new author for me and an exceptional one at that with this almost "Greek Tragedy"! At times, this was painful to read as Lukas struggled with his emotions and refused to love! He is a magnificent Greek alpha, shoulders his entire family's problems and always rises to the cause and takes responsibility for their misconduct.

The first few chapters are intense due to the fact that both characters, Lukas and Rhiannon are immediately drawn to each other. The air sizzles and crackles between them from the very beginning. When Rhiannon contacts Lukas it's for an urgent reason.....she is the ward of an old friend’s infant daughter, Annabel, who recently passed away. Her friend told her Lukas is the father and because of her past upbringing she feels it's important for the infant to be with family. She knows what it's like not to belong as she was adopted and never felt loved. Love is the most important thing to Rhiannon and she hopes someday to find it.

Lukas figures out that the Annabel's father is his nephew Christos, an uncaring, spoiled playboy. No matter at what cost, Lukas is going to take responsibility for this child and claims her as family. However, he demands until matters are settled that Rhiannon accompany them to Greece.

Sparks, sensual tension, all of it and more flare up between this couple. As the days go on, Rhiannon realizes that she loves this baby girl, she fights her attraction for Lukas and worries what the outcome will be.....should she allow this dysfunctional family to be involved in raising Annabelle? Should she stay in Greece to be close to this child she has grown to love and how will she deal with her feelings that are growing for Lukas?

The passion, the heat, the tension and the heartache that encompass this couple will have you in tears. Kate Hewitt sincerely has a "winner" with The Greek Tycoons Convenient Bride; it's an exceptional story and will make you believe in love and happy endings!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

IN BED WITH HER ITALIAN BOSS - KATE HARDY

Title: IN BED WITH HER ITALIAN BOSS

Author: Kate Hardy

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: April 08 UK: July 07 as Breakfast at Giovanni’s

The S-Factor: Sweet & Sensual

Back-Blurb:

Having just been fired, Francesca has three immediate requirements: a coffee, an extremely calorific pastry and a new job. Stopping off at her favorite café, Giovanni's, she manages to pick up all three!

Working for darkly handsome Giovanni Mazetti is fantastic—except Fran discovers the job comes with a tantalizing caveat: pretending to be his adoring girlfriend! Soon their kisses start happening in private as well as in public, and although Fran knows it's all a game to Giovanni, she can't help wishing his feelings were for real….


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

This is the first Kate Hardy book I’ve ever read and I’m so glad I did! It’s a little like Prince Charming meets Sleeping Beauty. Gio is one handsome, sexy and talented Italian. He believes in commitment and family and is a man who made sacrifices for that family. At one time he dreamed of being a musician. However when his father became ill, he rose to the cause and took over the family coffee business giving up his dream.

Fran, is the oldest in her family and was adopted when her parents thought they couldn’t have any children which was inaccurate as they eventually had twins boys and a girl. Fran always felt awkward, a sense of not belonging as her siblings excelled at everything they attempted; where Fran definitely was not an academic as the rest of her family. Fran frequents the Mazetti coffee shop and one particular day stops in feeling a little off as she’s just been told her job is being eliminated. She feels comfortable talking with Gio and in the end, Gio offers Fran a job as his office manager as he needs someone to organize his business because he wants to expand.

What both Fran and Gio don’t count as their working relationship and friendship progress is their attraction for each other. Gio’s family adore him and want him happy so when they learn of Fran they believe her to be more than his office manager. This situation works well for Gio as his Nonna is soon to visit so he asks Fran to pose as his girlfriend for the entire family. What they both don’t count on is how their relationship develops from friendship to lovers. What Fran doesn’t count on is for the very first time, she actually feels she belongs!

This is one sweet and tender love story……an awakening of sorts for both Gio and Fran and one you definitely will not want to miss thanks to Kate Hardy’s storytelling ability!

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Reviewed by Marilyn

ACCIDENTALLY YOURS - Susan Mallery

Title: ACCIDENTALLY YOURS

Author: Susan Mallery

Line: HQN

Release month North America & UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet and Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

WANTED: -Single mom seeks billionaire's pocketbook to fund dying son's research cure.
Will seduce if necessary. Blackmail is not out of the question. Miracles welcome.

-Cynical billionaire seeks working mom with a heart of gold for PR campaign to improve his standing in the community. Must be willing to attend social events. Anyone looking for love need not apply.

It seemed like the perfect match… until the unthinkable happened.

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

This book actually knocked me sideways; I was so taken with it! When I read Susan's comments on how the book came to be, I thought I'm not going to enjoy it.....A super mom who dresses up like Wonder Woman because her son has a terminal disease and she thinks if he believes she has super powers he will not die?Let me tell you like 22 other readers have posted have on Amazon, this is an incredible story, it is funny, it's so moving at times you're heart will ache. On top of everything else, it's steamy and sexy as well.You will adore Kerri, her drive to find a cure for her son's disease, how she gets the funds to re-open the clinic where scientists are very close in finding the cure. And Kerri's son Cory will melt your heart.

Cynical billionaire Nathan King, you'll want him for yourself, he's that kind of driven and determined man who has lost so much, who does not believe in love until he falls under Kerri's spell. Their love story is simply beautiful!Susan Mallery amazes me each time I read one of her books. She always delivers fun, fascinating and exceptional stories and Accidentally Yours is a book I will long remember.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE GREEK TYCOON'S UNEXPECTED WIFE - Annie West

Title: THE GREEK TYCOON’S UNEXPECTED WIFE

Author: ANNIE WEST

Line: Mills and Boon Modern and Harlequin Presents Extra

Release month North America: May 2008 UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sizzling and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

She’s fallen in love with her husband!

Stavros Denakis is furious when Tessa Marlowe turns up without warning. Even though, technically, they are married, their union was never consummated. Weary and cynical through his experience of women, Stavros suspects the wife he hardly knows is a gold-digger – surely her reason for appearing again out of the blue must be to claim her share of the Denakis millions? But Tessa is a temptation that he can’t resist…

Bedded by her gorgeous Greek husband, Tessa realizes that she has fallen in love with him, and she longs for their marriage to become real. Only Stavros, though he may be passionate in private, remains cold in public, and seems determined that they will stay wedded only in name…

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Annie West yet again delivers a passionate love story full of intrigue in the name of Tessa Marlowe. Tessa appears on the eve of Stavros Denakis engagement party and sets in motion a chain of events you won't want to miss. Unexpected wife doesn't even describe it!Stavros Denakis is the Greek alpha like no other who holds himself back when it comes to commitment and love. His father's past history with women have left him scared and resentful so when Tessa appears on his door step, he is not only furious but thinks she has an agenda. Tessa swears she is only here to return the "family" heirloom ring with the family crest.Is this really Tessa? The Tessa he married a few years ago and then he witnessed her accident and death? If this is his wife, then why after all of these years has she appeared on the eve of his engagement to another woman? Why now and where has she been? He is angry, intrigued and she still can make him crazy, peak his interest and cause him to feel desire in ways no other woman has ever touched him.Stavros and Tessa's journey is one incredible ride, full of passion, it’s a tug of war, roller coaster ride all rolled into one. Stavros self discovery in the end, will move the reader, especially when he realizes he cares deeply for Tessa. Well it's something you won't want to miss! Congratulations to Annie West on this moving and emotional love story.


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Annie says, “writing Stavros and Tessa's story was lots of fun, though Stavros is such a strong-minded character sometimes it was a challenge too!”

Reviewed by Marilyn

BOUGHT FOR THE FRENCHMAN'S PLEASURE - Abby Green

Title: BOUGHT FOR THE FRENCHMAN’S PLEASURE

Author: ABBY GREEN

Line: Mills and Boon Modern

Release month North America: April 2008 UK: March 2008

The S-Factor: Sizzling, Sensual, Sexy

Back-Blurb:

His price? She’ll become his mistress!

As a top model, Sorcha Murphy can command a high price. But her fame hides a terrible secret from her past – one she has tried to put behind her, but which is about to return to haunt her…

Romain de Valois knows Sorcha is damaged goods – her hedonistic reputation speaks for itself. But he needs and wants her for one final assignment, and he’s prepared to pay…

So when Romain discovers that Sorcha hasn’t changed her ways, he decides to change the deal…her pay-cheque will be recouped in the bedroom – as his model mistress!


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Abby Green’s Bought for the Frenchman’s Pleasure will probably be on my top ten lists for 2008. I absolutely loved this book and from start to finish I could not put it down.

The story begins in New York but also includes Ireland, India and France and takes the reader on a worldwide journey with this couple, Sorcha Murphy and Romain deValois., Their eyes meet across the room and they can’t look away, that’s the way it is from the first moment they see each other and that’s the way it is throughout the entire book. Tension, anger, sexual attraction, desire, all of it rolled into one. When Sorcha is asked to become the model to represent Romain’s company and ad campaign she refuses the chance of a lifetime. Why? She remembers what he did to her years ago, remembered and wanted no part of him now!

Years ago their paths crossed but in not a nice way. Sorcha was accused of being a drug user, her reputation was completely destroyed by an interview Romain gave to the press. It was his Aunt who came to Sorcha’s rescue, gave her another chance and is now her employer.

Romain has learned the hard way not to trust, not to trust love, his stepbrother, his deceased mother, no one. At one time in his life they have all let him down. Being a “user” is disgusting to him and he still suspects Sorcha is a user but cannot control his attraction to her. He’s decided she is what he needs for his campaign and for his pleasure. It’s like he’s obsessed and he does let up on this woman and time and time again, circumstances all point to the fact that Sorcha should not be trusted!

Sorcha is “fiery” in everyway…..she’s an incredible character, she lives up to her red hair and Irish heritage, she’s loyal to her friends, passionate about drugs addiction and actually sets up a youth outreach centre in Dublin. She’s also insanely in love with the man who would toss her in the trash, would use her until there was nothing left of her soul. This story will wrench your heart out……..their passion leaps off the pages, their attraction for each other, , their love/hate feelings………their story sizzles!

As for Romain, at first I wanted to sock him, kick him until I learned how emotionally he was hurt by his first love, his mother and his stepbrother. This is one steamy and sexy man who can’t get Sorcha out of his system. But when all falls, he falls hard, I promise.

If you’re a fan of “Top Model” or fashion week in NYC or the fashion runway in Paris or Milan….it’s the glamour, the electricity the models generate, it’s the intrigue of the entire fashion industry from the designers, to the models, to those wealthy enough to afford the luxury of designer high fashion. It’s fabulous!


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Abby says, “Bought for the Frenchman's Pleasure features an Irish heroine: Sorcha, and an arrogant and I hope deliciously gorgeous French hero, Romain. It's special to me because I've set parts of it here in Ireland, in Dublin and also in the far west, on Inis Mor, an island famous for its fort, Dun Aengus.”

Reviewed by Marilyn

THE SHEIKH AND THE PREGNANT BRIDE - Susan Mallery

Title: The Sheikh and the Pregnant Bride

Author: Susan Mallery

Line: Silhouette Special Edition

Release month North America: and UK: March 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet & Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Maggie Collins had come to the exotic kingdom of El Deharia to restore Prince Qadir's antique car…not to get married. The no-frills mechanic had been burned by love before, and marriage—even to a seductive sheik—didn't top her agenda. But then Qadir made her an offer she should have refused.It was meant to be a temporary engagement…until Maggie discovered she was pregnant. Now Qadir was honor-bound to give Maggie and her child the protection of his name. He never expected her to sweep him off his feet.Would there be a royal wedding after all?

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

When it comes to sheik books, Susan Mallery is at the top of the list. Her latest March release The Sheik and the Pregnant Bride I think is my favourite of all her Desert Rogue series.

Maggie Collins was not only lovely, she was full of spirit, sass and on top of everything else a top notch mechanic especially in restoring expensive top of the line cars. Maggie had grown up without a mother and was extremely close to her father who owned an auto body shop. Her father had been hired by Prince Qadir of El Deharia to restore his vintage car but upon Mr. Collins death and mountains of bills to pay, Maggie comes in her father’s place. From the moment they meet they are both drawn to each other not in a sexual way but one of friendship, trust and they just plain like each other.

Prince Qadir's father the King has a specific mission and that’s to marry off each of his sons. The King is constantly parading eligible young women in hopes of marrying off his sons and having grandchildren. Prince Qadir has no plans to get married so he comes up with a plan, he wants to hire Maggie to be his girlfriend and then pretend to be his fiancé. Everything back fires because they both develop more than a friendship; they develop a passionate relationship, one that knocks them both sideways. Maggie not’s sure how to feel about the relationship.

As for experience, Maggie has only known one man, Jon a boy she grew up with in Colorado, dated in high school, they had a short intimate relationship, more to ease the pain of being alone, especially after her father passed away. Now Maggie finds herself pregnant with Jon’s baby and on top of everything else, Jon is in love with someone else and Maggie’s extremely attracted to Qadir. It becomes an emotional mess for all people concerned!

This was such a fun story to read….and I adored Maggie. She actually reminds me of the author, Susan Mallery. She is charming, has quick wit, and gives as good as she gets. Prince Qadir was a fabulous character as well and you will love to see him brought to his knees by the lovely Maggie.

If you love sheikh books then you will not want to miss reading Susan’s The Sheik and the Pregnant Bride.

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This particular book is one of Susan's personal favorites.

Reviewed By Marilyn

THE ITALIAN'S CAPTIVE VIRGIN - India Grey

Title: THE ITALIAN’S CAPTIVE VIRGIN

Author: India Grey

Line: Mills and Boon

Release month UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet, Sensual, Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Italian tycoon Angelo Emiliani knows Anna Delafield is playing games: he wants to buy her French chateau, but it seems she’ll do anything to stop him. So he decides to teach her a lesson! Anna will be his VIP captive for a few days on his yacht. Hopefully, that should show her he’s not a man to be toyed with… But as cabin fever sets in, passions erupt, and Anna quickly realises the price of stopping Angelo has just got higher. Now there’s more at stake than just saving the château… Anna’s at risk of losing her virginity and more…!


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥


I was absouately captivated by India Grey's The Italian's Captive Virgin. Anna Delafield was such an interesting character, full of dreams, had such loving memories of her mother and grandmother, and of her family chateau in France,. The times spent at the chateau where some of the happeist of her life. That is where she once dreamed of someday being a bride and walking down the staircase and into the arms of her handsome "prince". Well those dreams are about to come to an end with the sale of the chateau. Family secrets also threaten to destroy her spirit and life. Anna feels all is about to end at the hand of Italian Angelo Emiliari. Angelo is a very rich and powerful man who's interested in purchasing Anna's family chateau, a man who usually gets what he wants at any cost, a man who will charm and draw her into a web which has the power not only to destroy her home but Anna herself. I found Angelo an interesting man, especially the secrets of his past and how he was always holding himself back, intrigued by Anna, drawn to her in such a way that she also had the power to cause him anguish and emotions he was not willing to face.

This is India's second book with Mills and Boon and oh what a wonderful, sensual and emotional read it was and in keeping with strong alpha and intriguing female characters.
Anna was interesting and had many facets to her character and I was absolutely charmed by her story. At times I was drawn to her and wanted to be her friend. I'm so happy she found the love of her life! Thanks you India Grey for such a moving romance, one I will long treasure.

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This is India’s second book for Mills and Boon.

HIRED FOR THE BOSS'S BED - Robyn Grady

Title: HIRED FOR THE BOSS'S BED
(Originally Dream Job, Hot Boss! UK)

Author: Robyn Grady

Line: Harlequin Presents

Release month:

North America: March 2008
UK: Modern Romance Extra - September 2007 Australia: March 2007 - M&B Sexy Sensation

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Working in Sydney's most dynamic advertising agency, Serena Stevens has just landed the agency's biggest account—this will make or break her career…. Serena's sexy boss, tycoon David Miles, may be all business in the boardroom, but soon he wants a little business in the bedroom!One wild night, Serena has to choose: career versus love, her dream job versus her hot boss! What's a girl to do?

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

As I finished reading this book many thoughts came to mind. Dreams, goals, can they be achieved at any cost? I guess it depends on a person’s drive, their past, present and what their goals are for their future. Tonight as I was getting dinner ready I heard a commercial on the TV, the author is unknown but the message is one of the messages I believe Robyn Grady was trying to portray in her book Hired for the Bosses Bed. “When you give up the ability to decide for yourself, you give up you”.

Serena Stevens is a girl we all know maybe even one we recognize. In her youth, she had to overcome some physical obstacles, weight, eyes (coke bottle glasses), and self esteem and now as an adult her father’s negative comments as they relate to her future which just makes her more determined.

Serena is driven to make her goals and a name for herself in the media industry, to travel, and live overseas…..she is determined as she’s worked very hard in furthering her education, making major changes in her life…..her appearance and moving from her home town. She looks back at her accomplished mother who gave up her life for family and still wants the brass ring. Enter a man who will change her life!

David Miles, handsome, talented, millionaire, sexy and owner of the advertising agency Serena works at, gives her an incredible chance and promotion. He is looking for the top award this year in his field and when the person he is counting on injures herself, he gives Serena a chance but at what price? However let’s not forget that this incredible man had to also give up his dreams for family.

David and Serena are immediately attracted to each other, fight it, and act on it and eventually fall deeply. I can’t remember reading a romance where both characters are so equally matched but in the end, at such odds. Be prepared!

Robyn’s Hired for the Bosses Bed…..well I wish it had a different title because it really doesn’t portray the deep meaning the author was trying to deliver to her readers……so many lessons, packed with emotion, light humour, a true lesson in love and what’s important in life! Robyn keep on writing your incredible stories!

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From I (Heart) Presents: “March is a big month! Robyn’s first Presents Extra, Hired for the Boss’s Bed, as well as her second Desire, For Blackmail…or Pleasure, are both on the shelves in the States. The double deal has prompted some people to ask: What’s it like to write for her two dream lines? Robyn’s simple answer: I’m in Heaven”

Robyn….we’re in Heaven with your wonderful stories!

Reviewed by Marilyn

THE SHEIKH'S CONVENIENT VIRGIN - Trish Morey

Title: THE SHEIKS CONVENIENT VIRGIN

Author: TRISH MOREY

Line: Harlequin Presents/ Mills and Boon Modern Romance and Sexy

Release month:

UK - Mar 2008 Mills & Boon Modern Romance -
AUS - Apr 2008 Harlequin Mills & Boon Sexy -
US - Mar 2008 Harlequin Presents -

The S-Factor: Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

Sheikh Tajik al Zayed bin Aman needs a convenient bride, and custom demands that she must be pure. So when he first sees Morgan Fielding and is intrigued by her strait-laced style, an idea begins to form…. Morgan doesn't understand why Tajik is pursuing her—such a virile man could have any woman he desires! But once she arrives in Tajik's desert kingdom, he announces he will take her as his wife—and bedding her is only the beginning!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

In November of 2007 we were introduced to Morgan and her twin Tegan in the Bosses Christmas Baby. In Trish Morey’s The Sheiks Convenient Virgin, this is Morgan’s story. You will fall in love with Morgan, she is very different from her spirited twin and yet this sweet and even tempered woman no longer is passive, she develops a temper and sass when she meets Sheik Tajik. He demands, his advances, his assault on her senses and her personal space drive her crazy.

The sheikh needs a wife and immediately! When he arrives in Australia and comes to see his mother, he notices her companion, Morgan. The sheikh is advised by his closest aid that his cousin is undermining him while he is away, has suggested to the council that Taj should marry his young daughter. Taj learns of this conspiracy and realizes he must return to his home country, what better solution than to have his mother’s companion accompany them and plans are set in motion. Plans that Morgan his not privy to so one can well imagine when they are revealed she blows her fuse. Marry a man she doesn’t know? Become a sheika in a desert wedding? Be expected to not only consummate the marriage but bear his heirs? Never!

Their journey is a dance and rollercoaster ride you won’t want to miss. It’s tender, passionate and oh what a beautiful, proud, sexy, wealthy sheikh Tajik is but wait until you see him soften, you’ll melt!

What make this story so special is that Sheik Taj wasn’t looking for love nor did he expect it! His father, her father and his fiancé were killed a year before so this marriage will be one of convenience for him. In the end, what he didn’t expect was to fall in love!

Again, Trish Morey has penned an exceptional story, one of passion and promise and tying in two of her other releases to make this a romance you will not want to miss!


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Trish likes to hammer out her stories while walking through the bushland of the beautiful Adelaide Hills, counting koalas high up in gum trees as she goes. (From her website)

Review by Marilyn

THE SHEIKH'S CHOSEN QUEEN - Jane Porter

Title: THE SHEIKH’S CHOSEN QUEEN

Author: JANE PORTER

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS ( The Desert Kings)

Release month North America: April 2008 UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sweet

Back-Blurb:

When Jesslyn knew him in London, Sharif Fehr was a playboy prince, and their romance was carefree and fun.Now Jesslyn has been summoned to the desert land that Sheikh Sharif rules. The intervening years have proved harsh and cruel, and Sharif has grown used to his word being law. No one dares challenge him—except Jesslyn! But for all her sweet insolence, Sharif is sure of one thing: Jesslyn will obey his ultimate command and submit—to becoming his wife and queen!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Yet again, Jane Porter mesmerizes her readers with a magnificent and magical “sheikh” story, part of The Desert King series. It’s a bit of a reunion love story as nine years ago, Jesslyn and Prince Fehr were lovers in every sense of the word. They were brought together by a tragedy when Fehr’s two sisters and Jesslyn were in a horrible accident and the sisters were killed. The other tragedy was that Jesslyn was not only left with their loss but injuries which would affect the rest of her life, probable infertility.

Your heart will break as you take the jour4ney with them…..you’ll meet his three sweet girls, his horrible and meddling mother and watch from the sidelines as secrets, lies and manipulation unfold.

Jesslyn walked away nine years ago from the love of her life, Sharif Fehr. Why? His mother hated her, told her he was to marry and that she was not fit to love and be his wife due to the fact she could never give him children. So she walked, still secretly hoping he could come after her. He did not, he married another and had three beautiful girls and now he’s a widower and needs Jesslyn’s help with his girls. Sharif realizes something is dreadfully wrong with the children and knows that Jesslyn is a teacher not living far from his palace. He “demands” she come to the palace, teach the girls and hopefully help them to adjust to their life without their mother. Sharif also has an agenda, one you’ll learn about when you read this incredible book.

You’ll love Sharif, his lack of understanding of how to be the father his girls need and how Jesslyn helps to heal and bring this family together through love and determination. It’s an exceptional romantic and sweet story as only Jane Porter can write with promises of more to come in her next release, Captive Bride.


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The Sheikh’s Chosen Queen is Jane’s take on The King and I (per her newsletter).

Reviewed by Marilyn

MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON - Nicola Marsh

Title: MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON (formerly released in the UK as Big Shot Bachelor)

Author: Nicola Marsh

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance


Release month North America: March 2008/UK: January 2007

The S-Factor: Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

Cooper Vance is successful, sexy, and totally single—and that's the way he likes it. Until he walks into an art gallery that he's determined to buy and sees a woman who takes his breath away….Can this big-shot tycoon break all his own rules so he can broker a deal and make Ariel his mistress?

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

The book is stunning! It’s a negotiation in more ways than you can imagine but when you meet Cooper, you’ll fall absolutely in love……he’s not only handsome, rich, smart, and has a sense of humour, he’s sexy and sensitive. I have to mention that the Presents title does not reflect the storyline or the power it delivers but as we all know sometimes authors don’t get a choice.

Ariel well as far as I’m concerned she’s the “star” of this book. She’s was rescued by a wonderful woman who she calls Aunt Barb. She was an orphan and Barb found her wrapped in an “art” canvas when she was a small child. Barb has given her a meaning to live and a sense of family. How can a reader not be drawn to this woman, this beautiful, funny, talented artist who wants to keep Aunt Barb’s memory and art gallery alive? And guess what? Cooper’s corporation wants to take it away from her…..buy and develop the site.

How they initially meet, what transpires and the chemistry between Cooper and Ariel sizzles right off the page. Their interaction, the cat and mouse game they play from the beginning to end, your heart will clench. I adored this book; it’s charming, funny and sexy and extremely moving thanks to Nicola Marsh!


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Nicola says, ‘The inspiration behind the main characters? After seeing a naked-from-the-waist-up pic of Mark Phillipoussis, Australian tennis star, (advertising tinned tomatoes of all things!) he was the perfect role model for Cooper.

Similarly, I saw a pic of Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins in a magazine wearing a floaty, chiffon caftan thing which screamed 'boho artist' and Ariel was born!’

Reviewed by Marilyn