MILLIONAIRE'S SECRET SEDUCTION - Jennifer Lewis

Title: MILLIONAIRE’S SECRET SEDUCTION

Author: JENNIFER LEWIS

Line: SILHOUETTE DESIRE

Release month USA/UK: February 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sexy



Back-Blurb:

A multimillion-dollar family dynasty was hard to walk away from. And that's what Dominic Hardcastle intended to do. Until he met his father's employee Bella Andrews. She was intriguing and sexy beyond reason… and out to ruin his estranged, ruthless father. So Dominic offered to keep her secret if she'd keep him company…after hours.

Everything about Dominic set off alarms in Bella's head. For he had the power to destroy her plans. Maybe some intense overtime with Mr. Tall, Dark and Dangerous was needed. Suddenly her scheme didn't seem so simple…or her heart so safe.…

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Millionaire’s Secret Seduction is the first book in author Jennifer Lewis’s The Hardcastle Progeny. One learns that the ruthless millionaire Tarrant Hardcastle is dying and has found one of his illegitimate children, Dominic DiBari. The same son he denied he fathered and now recognizes and wants to head up his corporation. Tarrant has a reputation being a womanizer and for only hiring “beautiful people”. Now he’s determined that his long lost son will take over the helm.

Dominic is an incredibly handsome and self made millionaire coming up the hard way, with hard work and shear determination and owns a chain of food stores very similar to Trader Joes (more than a grocery store with its shelves stocked also with exotic foods and items). He is also more than just a handsome man; he’s a man of honour but struggles with his feelings for his newfound father.

Bella Andrews is the head chemist at Hardcastle Enterprises and she’s on a mission to prove that Tarrant Hardcastle stole her father’s formulas and she’s going to expose and sue him. She is also an honour bound woman with a deep feeling for her mother who has been destroyed not only by the loss of her husband but also agonizes over loosing her home and feels Hardcastle is responsible. Bella’s mother wants to get back what she feels is rightfully theirs and is counting on Bella to prove they were cheated.

When Dominic explores his father’s company he bumps into the natural beauty, Bella and appreciates her looks, intelligence and sass. So much so, he’s determined to get to know her professionally and physically. However, he also realizes she has something to hide when he catches her going through Hardcastle files.

As the story unfolds, Bella tells Dominic about her father and her plans and he promises to give her sometime but he wants to make a deal. What will the deal cost each of them? He follows her and keeps an eye on her at every turn and in the end reveals to his father Bella’s plan. However, keeping his hands off of her is a problem and there is a scene in a copy room you won’t want to miss.

This is not just another sizzling love story, it’s about honour, family, values, trust and forgiveness. The story takes place in the cosmetic and fashion industry and is set in New York. Dominic and Bella’s journey is full of passion, is explosive, very powerful and was beautiful to read. This three book series is going to be wonderful and The Millionaire’s Secret Seduction just wet my appetite. In March, the second book will be released, In the Argentine’s Bed and in April The Heir’s Scandalous Affair.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE FIORENZA FORCED MARRIAGE

Author: Melanie Milburne

Line: Mills and Boon/Presents

Release: January 2009

The S Factor: Sexy

Front Blurb:

His eyes came back to hers, his inherent cynicism glittering like black diamonds.

‘I can only assume my father thought by forcing me to marry his little nursemaid it might have some sort of reforming effect on me,’ he said. ‘What do you think, Miss March? Do your skills extend to taming decadent playboys?’


One thing you have to understand about Rafael, he has no time for emotionally needy women. They’re too much hard work.
But for once in his life, he found himself not in command. His life had always been simple, no ties, no false promises and no love. But Emma had pierced his firewall.
Poor Rafael, suddenly realised that Emma’s innocence, her integrity, had completely turned his life upside down. His utter certainty that Emma was far too sweet for him and his realisation that he did want to be loved and for that love to last.
You will love this book, Melanie has written a beautiful, thought provoking, passionate love story of 2 people striving to be happy and to fulfil a dream of the happy ever after.

Their journey to find that ultimate love won’t disappoint. It’s lovely.
Thanks Melanie.


Back Blurb:

Rafael Fiorenza is furious. To get his inheritance he has to marry… his estranged father’s mistress!

Emma March was only doing her job, caring for the late Valentino Fiorenza. She expected no mention in his will, let alone a stipulation to marry his son! But, financially, she’s desperate…

Rafael will treat Emma like the money-grabbing harlot he thinks she is. He’ll wed her, bed her and destroy her. But then he discovers his new wife is a virgin! He’s forced an innocent woman up the aisle…

Location: Lake Como, Italy

Hero Hotness Factor: XXXX

Heroine Lovability Factor: XXX

Aww Factor: XXX

Stickability Factor: XXXX

Humour Factor: XXX

Weepy Factor: X

Reviewed by: Karen

CINDERELLA AND THE SHEIKH - NATASHA OAKLEY

Title: CINDERELLA AND THE SHEIKH

Author: NATASHA OAKLEY

Line: HARLEQUIN ROMANCE


Release month North America/UK: January 2009

The S-Factor: Sexy and Sweet

Back-Blurb:

Life has been tough on Pollyanna, who has constantly been at someone's beck and call. So when she journeys to the desert with magnificent sheikh Rashid, it feels like a dream! Charisma. Power. Danger. In just days, Rashid has taken Polly's world and changed it. He can't ever be hers, but what she is feeling is as old as time itself.

Pollyanna came to Amrah to relive her great-grandmother's adventure. But as the fairy-tale trip draws to an end, her adventure—with Rashid—has only just begun


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

This was an extremely entertaining and romantic love story taking place in England at a castle and also in the Amrah Desert Kingdom.

One’s first impression of Sheikh Rashid is he has it all, wealth, power, looks and can any woman he wants. But as one gets to know his character, he is so much more; he’s devoted to his kingdom, his brother and sister and aches to see his father before he dies. He’s also out for revenge as an English Duke has sold him a stud which can not produce and has taken his money and Rashid vows to get even.

Polly you will adore. She’s sweet, caring, devoted to her mother and Shelton Castle. She’s determined to take care of her wheelchair bound mother, the castle her stepbrother is about to ruin and live up to the expectations her stepfather had for his heirs. Now she’s been offered the opportunity to travel to Amrah and film a documentary about her great grand mother and have the adventure of her life.

It’s immediate attraction for Polly when she sees Rashid; he absolutely takes her breath away. She is overwhelmed by him so when he takes an interest in her she believes it to be sincere. However, for Rashid he needs to make sure Polly is not involved in her step brother’s deception so he is wary but he cannot deny his physical attraction for her. On top of everything else, his father is dying and does not want to see him plus there are security issues in his country because a new sheikh will be declared upon the death of his father. For Rashid his country means everything to him and he knows once Polly finds out he is going to ruin her stepbrother and possibly loose the castle, there can be no relationship.

Cinderella and the Sheikh is truly a Cinderella story set in the romantic desert full of mystery with the hope for the future for both Polly and Rashid.


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Reviewed by: Marilyn

TAKEN FOR REVENGE, BEDDED FOR PLEASURE- India Grey

Title: TAKEN FOR REVENGE, BEDDED FOR PLEASURE
Author: INDIA GREY
Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance
Release month North America: MAY 2009UK: JANUARY 2009The S-Factor: Simmering and Sensual
Back-Blurb:

The ruthless tycoon and the virgin heiress

Dangerously handsome Olivier Moreau has everything: power, money, and endless women warming his bed. But there is one thing Olivier is still hungry for: revenge on the Lawrence family!

What better vengeance than to seduce innocent Bella Lawrence…and cast her aside when he’s had his fill? An eye for an eye, a heart for a heart. But when cold, calculating revenge turns to red-hot passion, Olivier has no intention of letting her go… She’ll stay right where he wants her – in his bed!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Again, author India Grey has charmed me with Taken for Revenge, Bedded for Pleasure. It’s a very intense love story, full of passion, secrets, pain and intrigue. On top of that, both Olivier Moreau and Bella Lawrence carry a lot of baggage from their past.

Set in London and the French countryside I felt drawn to the hustle and bustle of the City but India’s description of the French countryside, and the Moreau farm house made me want to plan a trip to France. This couple’s journey begins in an unconventional way and almost ends in an explosive and violent manner.

They both are fighting demons from their past….Bella has issues with her family plus suffered at the hands of a man who used her and then publicly shamed her. Oliver has definite issues from his childhood and has not seen his father in years. Now returns to France and is shocked at seeing Bella again. He has to decide what type of revenge he is going to take against the Lawrence family for their past transgressions against his father and fights his attraction for Bella every step of the way.

Olivier and Bella’s story is a interesting one, full of obstacles, lust, mistrust that will have you cheering them on to find the happiness they so deserve. It’s a beautifully crafted story as only India Grey can pen.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn


Behind the book: As a reader I’ve always been fascinated by the Dedication Page and this one is no exception: “This one’s for Daisy, who makes the hard times easier and the good times better. With love and thanks”. Isn’t that lovely? M

BOOK REVIEW : HIGH SEAS STOWAWAY

Title : High Seas Stowaway

Author : Amanda McCabe

Line : Harlequin Historicals

Release date : January 2009

S-Factor : Simmering

 

Back burb 

Balthazar Grattiano, captain of the infamous ship Calypso and renowned seducer of women, has just walked into the one tavern in all of Hispanialo he should have avoided. For Bianca Simonetti, his sworn enemy, is the owner—and she has vengeance on her mind.

But before she can take her revenge she is captured by this rogue's kiss. Her only chance for retribution is to stow away on his ship for a passionate adventure that will either kill them—or bring them together once and for all!

 

Review 

Once upon a time, a young girl of fifteen, Bianca Simonetti, lived in Venice with her fortune-teller and tarot-card reader mother.

Balthazar Grattiano, the son of the powerful and fearsome Ermano Grattino, often waited for his father while Bianca’s mother would tell him who will be his fourth wife.

After a few visits from Ermano and in a single moment, Bianca’s life is changed forever when her mother is murdered and she blames Balthazar for it.

Seven years later in Santo Domingo, Bianca is now older and wiser and she has a new life on the island as a tavern owner. Her life without surprises is under control and she has no plans to change it.

Until.

Until the Captain of the Calypso, a man said to be able to navigate his way out of hell itself, appears in her tavern. She recognized him as Balthazar, the man who made her heart beat faster when she was a young girl and she remembers how she had vowed to take revenge her mother.

The more I was drawn in the story, the more I fell in love with Ms. McCabe’s writing. I was with Bianca when she decided to go on with her plans for revenge against Balthazar and I was still with her when she realized that her hate in him might be something else.

Because of her extensive researches on the time period, Ms McCabe was able to grab not only all of my attention, but also all of my senses. She was able to make me see the colors of the sea and of the islands and make me smell the scents of the tavern and of the flowers.

She also beautifully incorpored the sex scenes and the passion in the story, making it a seamsless one.

A tale of revenge, love and passion, High Seas Stowaway is the ultimate love story for pirates lovers.

Hero Hotness Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Heroine Lovability Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Awww Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Stickability Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Humor Factor: ♥
Weepy Factor: ♥♥

NOTE : Although HSS is the conclusion of Ms. McCabe Renaissance  trilogy (see A Notorious Woman and A Sinful Alliance), HSS can be read as a standalone.

FALLING FOR GRACIE (reissue) - Susan Mallery

Title: FALLING FOR GRACIE (reissue)

Author: Susan Mallery

Line: HQN


Release month US/UK: January 2009

The S-Factor: Sassy and Sexy

Back-Blurb:

First comes love, then comes marriage. . .
Or that was Gracie's plan, anyway, at the ripe old age of fourteen. She loved eighteen-year-old heartthrob Riley with a desperation that made her a town legend. Even now that she's all grown up, the locals in sleepy Los Lobos won't let her forget her youthful crush.

. . .but it's not as easy as it looks.

And how can she, when she's face-to-face with Riley at every turn? The one time bad boy has come back to town seeking respectability-but the sparks that fly between them are anything but respectable! Gracie's determined to keep her distance, but when someone sets out to ruin both their reputations, the two discover that first love is sometimes better the second time around.

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Falling for Gracie was a warm and spirited book. It was refreshing to read a romance filled with humour, warmth and strong characters. There were many lessons to be learned in this book a few being honesty, integrity and the art of communication. A very sensual romance, one I will read, over and over.

Gracie's character was strong, spirited, fun, intelligent, and warm even though her family had sent her adrift. She will charm her way into your heart.

Riley, how does one describe an alpha male at his finest? Tall, dark, handsome, aloof and because his past...mistrusting, tormented and angry.

How Gracie and Riley come together begins with their knowing each other in the past but now they meet again and sparks fly, while the entire town looks on and becomes involved in their romance.

I highly recommend this book. It is one of Susan Mallery's finest.


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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE MAGNATE'S INDECENT PROPOSAL - Ally Blake

Title: THE MAGNATE’S INDECENT PROPOSAL

Author: Ally Blake

Line Release Date:
Harlequin Presents – US September 2008
M&B Modern Romance – UK May & AU/NZ: June 2008

The S-Factor: Sexy and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

A millionaire magnate had her phone!

When Chelsea realized she'd accidentally swapped cell phones with someone, she knew how this would play out: she'd trek back into town, swap phones with some middle-aged man with a paunch and be on her way.

…now he wanted her body!

Only, seriously sexy Damien "Rich-list" Halliburton was way out of her league. She'd sworn off men long ago, but with a guy this gorgeous, how could she refuse his wicked, seductive and very indecent proposal?

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Ally Blake has created a sensual dance with The Magnate’s Indecent Proposal. It’s the first book about the Halliburton family, featuring the handsome Damien; the second being A Night with the Society Playboy featuring Damien Halliburton’s sister and his best friend Caleb. Usually I read series in order but that didn’t happen this time but this story is also a stand alone and so wonderfully executed that you sincerely won’t want to miss the experience.

Their story begins on a fun and light note…..they are both lunching at a posh restaurant which requires checking in your cell phone. Chelsea is running late meeting her sister for lunch. When the restaurant tells her she has to check her phone, she’s not happy as it has her entire life and business on it. In a hurry and not paying attention, she literally bumps into Damien. All I can say is the sparks fly between them. When Damien leaves to go back to his office, he is given Chelsea’s phone…need I say more?

Chelsea is not only beautiful, she’s spirited, owns and runs a successful business Pride and Groom a pet grooming service. She’s very independent but is very close to her sister. You’ll also learn one thing about Chelsea; she has trust issues due to being raised by a con-artist father. When she bumps into the handsome millionaire he takes her breath away and her life will change forever.

Damien is one smart and wealthy man who was born with a silver spoon, charm and owns a successful day trader business in Melbourne. He also has commitment issues when it comes to relationships and is only committed to his work. He’s also recently left a two year relationship and is definitely not looking for anything permanent. When he accidentally meets Chelsea, he’s intrigued and immediately realizes after only speaking with her on the phone, they have chemistry.

The Magnate’s Indecent Proposal is a charming and romantic love story about two people from different worlds who in the end can’t live without each other and are meant to be together. How they get there is something as a reader, you’ll want to experience.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

CONFESSIONS OF A MILLIONAIRE'S MISTRESS - Robyn Grady

Title: CONFESSIONS OF A MILLIONAIRE’S MISTRESS

Author: ROBYN GRADY

Line: Harlequin Presents: February 2009
M&B Modern Romance: UK November 2008
AZ January 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual and Scorching



Back-Blurb:

Saying ‘Oh, yes!’ to the millionaire…

When Celeste Prince discovers her beloved family business has been sold to millionaire Benton Scott, she’s determined to get it back. But gorgeous Benton sets her pulse racing, and her carefully laid plans lead her to just one place…his bed!

Benton makes it clear right from the start that he can’t offer more than a steamy affair. The passion is scorching – but Ben’s emotions are still in the deep freeze, and Celeste knows that only a dramatic collision course with his troubled past can thaw them…


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Author Robyn Grady has written an extremely, emotional and moving romance set in beautiful Australia. It’s about resolving past and moving forward, and accepting love.

As long as Celeste can remember and since her mother’s death, she is determined when her father retires that she has earned the right to head up the family landscaping business which was created by her parents. After her mother’s passing she felt the distance between she and her father. She was sent away to boarding school and could only count on her friend Brooke. Celeste has her own business but has dreams of expanding Prince Landscaping. So on the eve of announcing the new Chairman, Celeste is on pins and needles. Her father literally destroys her dreams by announcing a new CEO and owner by the name of Benton Scott. He also announces he is to become a new father and will be getting married.

Celeste is devastated and begs Ben to let her prove herself. She is so upset that Ben steps in and takes her on a picnic to take her mind off of everything. Her beauty, spirit and determination attract Ben so on that very day their relationship begins and they continue seeing each other but on his terms………having fun while it lasts with no commitment.

Their shared passion will absolutely leap off of the pages because you can see they are personally made for each other. But for Ben, because of his childhood and growing up in foster care, he won’t believe in “happily ever after” or permanence. His struggle with his past, eventually finding his father and learning why he left will pull at your heart. Celeste also reveals to Ben about her growing up years, the relationship between her parents and the effects it all played in her life, be prepared for tears.

Even though they physically enjoy their passion, the relationship becomes complicated. For Celeste these issues bring up questions for her as she looks back on her own parent’s marriage and realizes she needs more and decides to end the their relationship to save her heart from further breaking. In the end, Ben realizes that he has to work for what he wants the most, which of course is Celeste and he doesn’t need perfection. This couple were just meant to be and get their happy ending!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

ANTONIDES' FORBIDDEN WIFE - ANNE MCALLISTER

Title: Antonides’ Forbidden Wife

Author: Anne McAllister

Line: Harlequin Presents

Release month: January 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

Ally is back in the life of PJ Antonides for one thing only—his signature on their divorce papers.

But arrogant Greek businessman PJ refuses to sign anything. He won't accept that Ally's no longer his wife. So when the smoldering attraction between them moves negotiations from his boardroom to his bedroom, PJ knows his forbidden bride is once again his, and ready for the taking….

Review:

Antonides’ Forbidden Wife is Anne McAllister’s latest tantalizing novel for Harlequin Presents!

At eighteen years old, Ally was desperate to escape from her father’s tyrannical clutches and to experience the world and be an ordinary woman leading an ordinary life. A relative of hers had left her a substantial fortune, but the only way she could get her hands on this legacy is if she marries. Unfortunately for Ally, her father does not permit her to date, but when she meets surfer PJ Antonides, she realizes that she might have finally found her convenient husband…

On their wedding night, sparks begin to fly and as they make love, Ally realizes that she might just have fallen for PJ. Not daring to reveal to him her true feelings, she decides that the best thing for it is to run away and start afresh. Away from her father and her husband, Ally decides to begin anew and to make a new life for herself. But her husband’s tender love-making keeps on haunting her…

Many years have passed since the last time they clapped eyes on each other. PJ is no longer a laidback surfer but a ruthless businessman who refuses to have his heart broken again. When Ally walks through his office door, old feelings soon resurface, but he is stunned she asks him for a divorce. Now that Ally is back in his life, PJ is not about let her out of his sight ever again and when he kisses her for old times sake, Ally begins to wonder just why she left him in the first place...

Anne McAllister has written another fresh, funny, tender, intense and emotional romantic read. Like Nora Roberts and Jennifer Crusie, Anne McAllister’s writing sparkles with warmth, humour and ingenuity and readers looking for a heartwarming and heart wrenching story that will keep them up all night will not want to miss Antonides’ Forbidden Wife!

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HIS MISTRESS, HIS TERMS - Trish Wylie

Title: HIS MISTRESS, HIS TERMS

Author: TRISH WYLIE

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS
MILLS AND BOON MODERN ROMANCE

Release month North America: December 2008
UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet and Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Rule 1 – Keep it strictly professional
Rich, gorgeous playboy Alex Fitzgerald has his sights set on Merrow O’Connell. Initially he needs just her interior design skills, but soon they’re on different terms – she’s perfect mistress material!

Rule 2 – Never mix business with pleasure…
Alex is determined to break all the rules and have the Irish beauty in his bed – and Merrow can’t argue with the boss! But she’s learned not to let anyone get close, and is determined to stay free and single. So what will she do when the billionaire playboy suddenly wants her to be more than just his mistress…?

Rule 3 – This boss always gets his way!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Trish Wylie has penned is an incredible romantic, sensual and sizzling love story in His Mistress, His Terms. The chemistry, the banter, the relationship itself will knock your socks off! Put that together with the story being set in Dublin, a fiery redheaded designer and a cool and confident architect who one weekend months ago, fell into each others arms for a night of passion.

When they meet up again, it’s to work together on a rock star’s Dublin hotel. From start to finish this romantic dance, their ups and downs, their getting to know each other and take their relationship to the next level is one you will not want to miss!

Merrow is a free spirit, she’s lovely, confident and funny and she remembers her weekend of passion when she met Alex at a festival and spent one of the most memorable weekends of her life. She is now faced seeing him again and when he offers her a job, she actually believes she can put her past behind her and work with Alex professionally.

Alex, is handsome, hard working but he comes with some baggage’ his family is high society. His wealth and family don’t bother him as he’s always worked for everything he’s achieved; he’s pushed himself every step of the way. His family background bothers Merrow as she comes from a very unusual background and knows this relationship can go no where.

It’s a wonderful story of cat and mouse, exceptional I would say and I congratulate Trish Wylie for this glorious, sexy and very entertaining “fairy like” tale. With it being Mills and Boon’s 100th anniversary, this book makes the celebration even more special!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE COWBOY AND THE ANGEL - Marin Thomas

Book Review

Title: THE COWBOY AND THE ANGEL

Author: MARIN THOMAS

Line: Harlequin American Romance

Release Month: November

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

‘Tis the season for miracles?

Renee Sweeney will do whatever it takes to keep a roof over the heads of Detroit’s street kids. Even if it means stepping in front of a ten-ton wrecking ball aimed at their temporary home. And especially if it means clashing with gorgeous corporate cowboy Duke Dalton.

To Duke, the blue-eyed blonde seems more like an angel than a social worker. Until he discovers a group of runaways camping out in his warehouse! The Tulsa businessman came to set up shop in a new town, not provide free housing for the masses. But Renee and the kids are making him rethink his bottom line. . . and what the spirit of the Christmas season really means.

Now this cowboy Santa is looking to give Renee – and her young charges – a gift straight from his heart!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

This book starts out: “Renee Sweeney stood defiantly in front of the ten-ton wrecking ball and glared at the crane operator inside the cab.” Oh my! Marin had me right there! I was not about to put this book down any time soon.

Renee was a social worker in the city of Detroit. She was good at what she did, because she cared. Like a lot of people who care, most of the time she was in trouble with her boss, who only cared for the bottom line, and doing things by the book. When Duke Dalton met her, he was rather upset, and was not really in a mood to listen to anything she had to say. That’s why she had to show him. What was his reaction to finding out that there were six young children living in cardboard boxes on the top floor of the building he was trying to tear down? This was winter. Detroit in winter is not warm by any stretch of the imagination.

Though I have to hand it to Duke, as soon as he got over the shock of this discovery, he did what was necessary, not only to help Renee do her job, but to help keep the kids together. He was pretty much what you’d call an alpha male, strong and forceful, and he definitely wanted his own way, but he was smart enough to know a good thing when he saw it, and Renee was a good thing! Even though he did not want to, and it cost him many thousands of dollars that he couldn’t afford, he still did what he could to get those kids the help they needed.

Marin’s handling of this very touchy subject was phenomenal! This wasn’t what I would call a weepy story, but it brought tears to my eyes several times as I read about what those children were going through, and made me snarl with anger when she described how callous and hard-hearted some of the “city fathers” were when she wanted to improve things for all children in this position. I was totally in Renee’s shoes every step of the way through this story.

The romantic part of it, the sex scenes, the passion, were all wonderfully done. The twists and turns that kept them together, then tore them apart, then brought them back together again – a must in every well-written love story, were extremely well done.

Marin’s depiction of the homeless children of Detroit was so well done that I shudder every time I think of small children living that way. One usually envisions a homeless person as a down-and-out alcoholic or someone who has done something to cause himself/herself to be there, but not children. A story that came straight from her heart, I’m sure. Marin Thomas is definitely going on my must buy list.

Hero Hotness Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Heroine Lovability Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Awww Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Stickability Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
Humor Factor: ♥
Weepy Factor: ♥♥

Reviewed by: Donna B

THE SHEIKH'S REBELLIOUS MISTRESS - SANDRA MARTON

Title: THE SHEIKH’S REBELLIOUS MISTRESS

Author: SANDRA MARTON

Line:
Harlequin Presents: US: December 2008
Mills & Boon Modern Romance: UK: February 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

For Sheikh Salim al Taj, it's strictly business. But one night with his employee Grace Hunter and his focus is changed— now he wants her exclusively!

When Salim ends their passionate affair, he can't believe it when Grace walks out on her job, apparently taking company secrets with her. He resolves to bring his runaway rebellious mistress to heel—slowly, pleasurably and mercilessly….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

The Sheikh's Rebellious Mistress was the last book in Sandra Marton's The Sheikh Tycoons series and was based on revenge due to embezzlement and getting even for walking away from a relationship. It's extremely entertaining, full of passion with a few twists and turns.

For sometime the handsome, powerful and wealthy sheikh Salim al Taj had stewed and vowed to find Grace Hudson and make her pay in more ways than one. She would pay dearly for ending the relationship, disappearing without a word and from lying and stealing from him. He would punish her himself and when he was through with her he would turn her over to the authorities.

Like all of the sheikhs in this series they were of modern thinking, were educated at Harvard, close friends, fierce, proud, loyal to their country and to each other. They felt royal marriages were based on duty, not emotion and relationships outside of marriage on fulfilment. In the end, they were wrong and each of them falls hard. Salim was no exception and you'll ache for him because he almost didn't get his second chance.

Grace Hudson was beautiful, smart, a hard worker, well spoken, had opinions and never hesitated to state them. She never mixed business with pleasure but when she met and worked for Salim, she fell hard and he broke her heart. As their relationship continued she felt he was distancing himself so she left before her could hurt her more and she could salvage what was left of her life.

Grace finds herself in a horrible situation. She's attending a conference with her boss in Bali and he forces himself on her. On top of that, Salim has tracked her down in Bali, witnesses the assault and intervenes. The only way Grace can get away from her horrible boss is to accept Salim's assistance by agreeing to return to the States. On the return trip to New York, Salim announces he's going to have her prosecuted and then their plane goes down. Salim being the desert warrior he is saves them both by swimming and finding a private island. Is Grace safe from Salim? You'll just have to read this beautiful love story to find out!

The Sheikh's Rebellious Mistress took my breath away. When Salim realizes two things........he's in love with Grace and she did not embezzle from him, your heart will break and you'll want to shake him and cheer him on at winning back her heart. Salim finally realizes "a man determined to be blind to love was capable of great stupidity". Be prepared for ups and downs and a lot of emotion as only Sandra Marton can pen.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE RUTHLESS ITALIAN'S INEXPERIENCED WIFE - CHRISTINA HOLLIS

Title: The Ruthless Italian’s Inexperienced Wife

Author: Christina Hollis

Line: M&B Modern Romance

Release month : December 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

From virgin nanny – to the boss’s bride!

Nanny Cheryl Lane has been summoned to Tuscany by billionaire Marco Rossi. His ruthless, brooding reputation precedes him.

Marco Rossi has hired Cheryl to look after his orphaned nephew. But little does he realise that he’s employed such a ripe young beauty; she may try to hide her luscious curves beneath a dowdy uniform, but Marco’s no fool…

The desire to unbutton the prim Miss Lane is so tempting – and he could never resist a challenge…

Review:

The Ruthless Italian’s Inexperienced Wife is the latest passionate yet poignant Modern Romance by the wonderful Christina Hollis!

Being on her own in a derelict house in the middle of nowhere during a ferocious thunder storm, having to tend to a sickly child, wasn’t exactly how Cheryl Lane envisaged her new job as a nanny to pan out. But as her charge’s guardian, Marco Rossi, is a selfish workaholic who barely has a moment to spare for his orphaned nephew, Cheryl is not in the least bit surprised. However, when he turns in the middle of the night, soaked to the skin and looking ferocious, Cheryl is stunned by how attractive he is. Cheryl doesn’t have much luck with men, and although she knows that Marco will never be drawn to a dowdy frump like her, she cannot help but be drawn to her ruthless boss.

Marco is used to dating ambitious, confident and self assured women, so why is he drawn to his shy and innocent nanny? Unable to resist one another, Marco and Cheryl share a passionate kiss. But neither of them was prepared for the sheer force of their desire for one another. Will their steamy passion give way to a love which they cannot deny? Or will they let their past fears and insecurities get in the way of their own happiness?

The Ruthless Italian’s Inexperienced Wife is another wonderfully romantic tale from the pen of this talented storyteller! Christina Hollis sweeps her readers off Italy and will entrance them with this spellbinding tale of unexpected romance, past secrets and second chances!

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CAPTAIN FAWLEY'S INNOCENT BRIDE - ANNIE BURROWS

Title: Captain Fawley’s Innocent Bride

Author: Annie Burrows

Line: Mills and Boon Historical Romance

Release month : December 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

The Captain’s convenient wife…

Battle-scarred Captain Robert Fawley was under no illusion that women still found him attractive. None would agree to marry him – except, perhaps, Miss Deborah Gillies, a woman so down on her luck that a convenient marriage might help improve her circumstances.

Plain and somewhat shy, Deborah accepted his pragmatic proposal – because she was already halfway to falling in love with him. As remote as Robert was, though, could she ever hope to reach his guarded heart?

Review:

Annie Burrows’ latest Regency romance, Captain Fawley’s Innocent Bride, is an enchanting, beguiling and spellbinding historical tale from this talented rising star!

Battle-scarred hero Captain Robert Fawley knows that the ladies of the ton do not find him in the least bit attractive. With his scarred face, amputated leg and lack of fortune, he isn’t exactly one of polite society’s most eligible bachelors, however, that doesn’t stop him from wishing that, someday, a young lady might see beyond his scars and see the real him. When he is informed that he stands to inherit a substantial fortune from a deceased relative of his, Robert realizes that although he cannot do anything about his looks, he could do something about his insubstantial fortune. But there’s a catch: in order to claim his inheritance, he must first marry. The question is who will want to be saddled with a man like him?

Miss Deborah Gillies feels sorry for the poor Captain, who has to put up with all the scorn and derision of the superficial ton. She soon begins to grown fond of the proud Captain – even though he seems keener on her gorgeous friend Susannah. Poor and plain Deborah had come to London hoping to make a good match and save herself and her mother from destitution. Sadly, nobody seems keen on making her his bride, but that doesn’t stop her from yearning for the Captain’s attentions…

Robert is not determined to let his fortune slip through his fingers, and seeing how devoted to him Deborah seems, he asks for her hand in marriage making it quite clear that theirs will be a marriage in name only. But on their wedding night, Robert soon realizes that his marriage to Deborah will be anything but convenient!

A wonderfully romantic tale imbued with plenty of charm, period detail and heart-stopping passion, Captain Fawley’s Innocent Bride is the latest unmissable treat from this hugely talented writer of historical romance!

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BABY BEQUEST - ROBYN GRADY

Title: BABY BEQUEST

Author: ROBYN GRADY

Line: Silhouette Desire:
US: November 2008
AZ/NZ: December 2008
UK: January 2009

The S-Factor: Sexy

Back-Blurb:

All Gage Cameron had thought about, as he clawed his way to wealth and power, was the woman he'd loved and lost so many years before. Now Jenna Darley was home at last—and he finally had the means to make amends for the past. She was desperate to adopt her orphaned niece, but she couldn't unless she had a home, a husband. He offered her marriage—in name only—planning to stay only until the baby was safely in Jenna's arms. But a woman's passion, and a baby's love, gave the tycoon far more than he'd bargained for.…


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥


Baby Request is an emotional love story with a little suspense thrown in along with tenderness and second chances for Gage and Jenna.

She once loved him and he left her without a word and twelve years later they have both returned to Australia. Jenna Darley to bury her father, twin sister and her husband and to get custody of her baby niece, Meg. Gage Cameron to settle an old debt to Jenna’s father and to make sure she is settled and happy. He’s determined to go to any lengths to make sure Jenna gets her niece even if it means marriage.

Jenna is in a state of disbelief….she’s lost her entire family in a plane crash and she never made amends with her father for past disagreements or for leaving home. To make matters worse, her father has left his entire estate to her stepmother and the custody of Meg is in jeopardy. On top of everything else, the love of her life has returned home. After spending a short time with him, he offers to assist her in getting sole custody of Meg by offering marriage. Should she take a leap of faith and marry him in order to accomplish getting Meg? Would marrying him destroy her?

Little Meg is the most important thing to her so she agrees to marry Gage and carry on the charade at all risks to her heart. In the end, being with him, having him take care of her, his gentleness, her sexual attraction for him, she’s determined to store the memories of their time together knowing in the end it will rip her heart out when he leaves. So she takes what she can, storing those memories away and also focuses on getting little Meg.

There are many lessons for these lovers to learn. For Gage, to come to terms with his past and understanding that he can love and have it all. For Jenna, forgiving her father and understanding why things happened. Also, forgiving Gage and understanding why he left her years ago. Their journey is just plain moving and beautiful!

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

THE MEDITERRANEAN BILLIONAIRE’S BLACKMAIL BARGAIN

Author: ABBY GREEN

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: December 2008
UK: July 2008

The S-Factor: Simmering and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

When Alicia turns up at Dante D'Aquanni's Italian villa claiming he's responsible for her sister's pregnancy, he's furious. He knows her type—and he'll make her pay!

When it turns out Dante wasn't her sister's lover, Alicia has to make amends, and Dante wants more than a mere apology.

He wants Alicia. She's whisked into his glamorous world. But despite the sizzling chemistry between them, Alicia knows she must leave—because she's falling for a man who despises her….


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

England, Italy, and Cape Town are all places you will visit along with reading Dante and Alicia’s sensual journey as only Abby Green can pen. It’s an explosive story of revenge, full of tension and passion.

Dante D’Aquanni is not only a successful and powerful businessman, he’s one hot Italian who has learned the hard way from growing up on the streets of Naples. He’s a self made billionaire who raised his brother while building his wealth. Now he’s faced with a woman who has hurled accusations not once but twice and now in front of the press at his Lake Como Villa. She has accused him of being the father of her sister’s baby and he’s going to put an end to it and her as he suspects she and her sister to be gold diggers.

The beautiful Alicia Parker has recently returned home from Africa with little money, a broken spirit, plus a secret. On top of this, she has learned her sister has been in a serious accident which she and her unborn baby have critical injuries and need long term care if she is to carry to term. When she tries to find out the identify of the baby’s father she misunderstands her sister and believes it to be Dante. She has always taken care of her of her younger sibling since they were orphaned and whatever it takes by whatever means she will make him pay and stand up to his responsibilities.

Dante is in the middle of an important deal which will put his company and it’s investors well over the top and place them as the most successful construction organization the in the world. He can’t afford any scandal or publicity. He knows several things…..he can’t mess up the deal, and he must keep an eye on Alicia and keep her close, and keep her sister and the baby a secret. However, the most important fact is there is something about her that calls out to him and he must have her even though he mistrusts her. In fact he doesn’t trust any female due to a past experience and he certainly will never marry.

Alicia realizes she has made a mistake by accusing Dante falsely of being the father of her sisters baby when in fact is was his brother. He uses this to blackmail her into staying with him during the business negotiations. In return, he agrees to assist financially with her sister’s and baby’s care. She also knows deep down inside this man has the capability of hurting her emotionally due to their attraction for each other. After just one kiss and later when they take their relationship further, she knows he can destroy her. For the past year she has cut herself off from emotion and yet this man can bring her to tears. Leaving would be the easiest solution but she keeps coming back for more.

What I would warn the reader is “read at your own risk” because you will be in tears and filled with emotion each time Dante uses cynical and harsh words or when he’s abrupt with her out of his own frustration. He always believes the worst in her but is drawn to her like a moth to a flame. He’s a coward to trust in something good which is just so terribly sad. However, when the truth and reasons for his actions are revealed, just be prepared because it’s extremely moving and emotional.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn


Behind the Book: Per a post on I(heart)presents: “This story was born out of a single image in my head. No plot, nothing, just an image inspired by a film – Oceans Twelve. In it, we see a character who is played by Vincent Cassel, the charismatic French actor, who, in the film, lives in a palatial villa on Lake Como.” Daisy

I(heart)presents

DOUBLE THREAT CHRISTMAS - Terri Reed

Book Review

Title: DOUBLE THREAT CHRISTMAS

Author: TERRI REED

Line: Love Inspired Suspense

Release month North America: December

The S-Factor: Scary but Sweet

Back-Blurb:

“I didn’t kill those men!”

According to the police, Megan McClain had the motive, means and opportunity to commit a double murder. Unless she can prove her innocence, she’ll spend Christmas in jail. Is someone trying to frame her? Who?

She starts nosing around – and uncovers not one, but two unlikely suspects. The detective working the case doesn’t appreciate Megan doing his job for him. And the more Paul Wallace investigates, the guiltier Megan looks. That’s because she is hiding something. Something that scares her even more than her feelings for the handsome cop.

The McClains: Bound by faith, honor and love

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

How do you think you’d feel if first you came across not one but two dead bodies, and then the police decided you had killed them both? That is the situation Megan found herself in. Nonetheless, she could not stop herself from being drawn to the investigator, Paul. Did he really think she was guilty? What was she hiding from him?

Paul watches Megan closely. He’s never met a murderer yet who didn’t proclaim his innocence. But she seems so truthful. So what is she hiding?

Megan works in an art gallery, she is organized, tidy, a hard worker, and loyal to a fault. She also has a problem she doesn’t want anyone to know about – or at least as few people as possible, and this list definitely does not include detective Paul Wallace.

The more time Paul spends with Megan, the more he comes to believe someone is trying to frame her for murder. But who? He keeps telling himself that he needs to stay close to her in order to keep her safe.

This is book number four in the McClains series by Terri Reed, and it’s every bit as good as the first three. In this story, the heroine was believed guilty by the police of something she had not done. To me, that is the ultimate in fear, second only to someone trying to kill you. I was terrified right along with Megan when both these fears came into her life. Yet I was so involved in the story that I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. I loved the ending, how Paul finally realized that God had brought them together to compliment each other.

Love Inspired Suspense books have no sex in them, they do have reference to belief in God, and I find them a refreshing change from the books where the hero and heroine regularly fall into bed together throughout the stories. Terri Reed is a master when it comes to putting suspense and mystery into a wonderful love story.

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Reviewed by: Donna B

THE RANCHER'S RUNAWAY PRINCESS - Donna Alward

Title: THE RANCHER’S RUNAWAY PRINCESS

Author: Donna Alward

Line: Mills and Boon Romance
Harlequin Romance

Release month North America and UK: January

The S-Factor: Sweet

Back-Blurb:

Brooding ranch owner Brody Hamilton keeps his heart out of reach. But there’s something about vivacious stable manager Lucy that brings joy to his hardened soul. Only he must put his past behind him before he can put a ring on her finger…

Lucy Farnsworth has just discovered she’s of royal blood. She should be glad, but it’s blown her world apart and she just finds herself wanting to be the old Lucy again. At Prairie Rose Ranch Lucy’s found the man who makes her feel she belongs. Only she hasn’t told him she’s a princess…

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Lucy Farnsworth’s life has been turned upside down. Her mother just died a few months ago, and she has been drowning in new and strange experiences. Just before she died, Lucy’s mother introduced her to her father, King Alexander from the small island country of Marazur. Understandably, Lucy now feels like she doesn’t even know who she is.

This trip to Prairie Rose Ranch in the foothills of Alberta might be just the thing to help her get her life back on an even keel. Therefore, she decides that she is not going to tell the people at Prairie Rose Ranch that King Alexander is her father, only that she is his stable manager.

Brody Hamilton takes one look at King Alexander’s stable manager, and his whole body stands to attention. But he’s been burned before, and he’s vowed that never again will he allow passion to rule over common sense.

Will the two of them be able to work out a business arrangement between the stables of Marazur and Canada’s Prairie Rose Ranch? Or is their desire for each other going to take the upper hand and ruin everything?

Brody was a strong, handsome alpha male. He also still had a lot of anger toward his ex-wife, which at times got dumped on Lucy. At first Lucy was a meek little thing, and I despaired of her ever finding her backbone, but when the time came, she stood right up to everyone and made her beliefs known in no uncertain terms.

This book, like all Donna Alward’s books, caught me right into the story, and held my interest to the very last page. Donna has a very direct and down-to-earth way of writing that I thoroughly enjoy. Read this wonderful love story for yourself and see how two people who think they’re unsuited for each other, are, in the end, more than suited.

Hero Hotness Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥
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Reviewed by: Donna B