THE HEIR'S SCANDALOUS AFFAIR - Jennie Lucas

Author: Jennifer Lewis

Line: Silhouette Desire

Release month North America/UK: April 2009

The S-Factor: Sizzling and Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Young widow Samantha Hardcastle longs to find her late husband's heir and bring him into the family. Even so, restaurateur Louis DuLac won't respond to her calls or letters—or knocks at his New Orleans door. All alone, Samantha succumbs to the sensual refuge offered by a gorgeous stranger. Who turns out to be Louis DuLac.
Louis never knew his father's identity. Now this trophy widow wants him to take a DNA test to prove—or disprove— that he is a Hardcastle. No problem—if Samantha agrees to spend another evening with him….
Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

This wonderful last book in Jennifer Lewis The Hardcastle Progeny series was a total and wonderful surprise. The Heir’s Scandalous Affair, book three in the series was nothing short of brilliant. Why you might ask? The answer is read my notes on “behind the book” and if you’ve read the first two then you would understand. And if not, just know the story centers around Tarrant Hardcastle whose dying wish was to find his illegitimate children before he died. Usually a representative was sent to retrieve the DNA and bring the son home. However, in this case his widow takes on the task.

Of course Tarrant dies and the family is forced to move on and Samantha sets out in the journey in finding the final son and bringing him home to the family. You’ll love Samantha, because her exterior is extremely beautiful but inside more so and she’s so vulnerable during her grieving time and to take on such a task only shows the reader how important and determined she is to unite the Hardcastle clan. When you learn of her upbringing and her past marriages you’ll immediately have a soft spot for her and only wish her happiness.

New Orleans, what a sensual and mysterious setting where the story begins and where Sam seeks out Tarrant’s long lost son the very charming, sexy, and kind man, Louis. Louis DuLac is wealthy by his own rights and owns restaurants all over the world but what will attract one is his depth and insight into life and character. Knowing who his father was is of not importance to Louis and of course due to his own wealth and for personal reasons he doesn’t need the money not does he wish to find out who his father was but he is definitely intrigued by Samantha and the fact that he has two step brothers.

Sam literally stumbles into a “lounge” one evening, is rescued, wined and dined and literally is swept off her feet. Then one thing leads to another and the world tilts. Luke immediately rescues her; they spend the night in each others arms. In the morning, she leaves and readies herself to find Tarrant’s missing son. When she knocks on the door, Luke answers and they both are floored.

For them both, it a rollercoaster ride; self discovery for Sam at Louis hand But what I loved about this beautiful man was how he made Sam realize how important she was to her family and to him. Their journey and getting there is the best part of the story, especially all of the turmoil which takes place when they both return to New York for Louis to meet the family and friends. The dynamics of the Hardcastle’s, how they end up unified and the chemistry which is so full of fire and passion in The Heir’s Scandalous Affair will be a love story long remembered.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

Behind the book from the author:

“Young, beautiful women who marry rich, older men are often treated cruelly in the press. These 'trophy wives' seem to be objects of intense fascination and resentment, as evidenced by the ghoulish obsession with Anna Nicole Smith after the passing of her wealthy older husband.

The coverage of her life and tragic death made me wonder how it would feel to be subject to such envy and loathing. It sparked the idea for The Heir's Scandalous Affair, in which young widow Samantha Hardcastle has to find her way in the world after the death of her billionaire husband, Tarrant.

With the eyes and cameras of the world upon her, Sam finds herself falling in love with the one man she should stay far, far away from: her husband's illegitimate son. I hope you enjoy Sam and Louis's roller-coaster romance.”

Jen Lewis (direct quote from Eharlequin)

THE FRENCH TYCOON'S PREGNANT MISTRESS - Abby Green

Author: Abby Green

Line: Harlequin Presents and Mills & Boon Modern

Release month North America/UK: April 2009

The S-Factor: Sizzling, Sensual, and very Sexy

Back-Blurb:

Devastatingly handsome French tycoon Pascal Lévêque has his sights set on Alana Cusack. Her seeming inexperience intrigues him—she used to be married!

Alana's marriage was a sham. It left her feeling unattractive and unwanted. Now that Pascal has claimed her as his mistress, he'll teach the innocent Alana how much pleasure can be had in the bedroom….

But passion leads to pregnancy and Pascal vows he'll take Alana in Paris…and to the altar!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

The French Tycoon’s Pregnant Mistress is the third book in the International Billionaire series and it’s extremely explosive, intense, a very steamy romance and a wonderful addition to the series.

From the moment they set eyes on each other in the Irish stadium they are drawn on a very powerful level. Pascal Lévêque is determined to meet and explore his interests with the beautiful redhead with the intense green eyes who is a television reporter covering the match between France and Ireland. This French alpha honestly is like no other. He’s handsome, strong, determined but also a very patient man. After a few encounters, he realizes she is like to other woman he’s met. She is fire in his blood and he wants to continue seeing her at any cost. He also sees her vulnerability and is determined to be patient while enjoying their time together. When Pascal discovers Alana is pregnant with his child and situations arise which embarrass Alana, her family and the Six Nations he takes her to Paris.

Alana Cusack has worked hard to get her position as a television reporter. Her husband was a famous rugby player, and a player with other women, so she divorced him, only to have him pass away before the divorce was final. She’s gained recognition by working hard but when she sees Pascal her heart stops. She finally agrees to go away with him and realizes she is in trouble because he brings her such pleasure. Two questions become apparent 1) can she trust and give in to her emotions for him and believe they had a future together? 2) When their affair ends will it destroy her, because it will end due to his reputation with women?

They both come from two different worlds, Alana from a family of six children, she being the youngest, a caring family full of love. However, she’s never really shared her married life with her family even though they were all very close. Pascal was raised in the poor and dangerous suburbs of France, and upon his mother’s death was sent to live with his grandfather. Pascal sacrificed his career in rugby to abide by his grandfather’s wishes. This made him a very wealthy man.

The French Tycoon’s Pregnant Mistress is an emotional roller coaster for both Pascal and Alana. For him, at times he feels part of him is “untamed” and he doesn’t want their relationship to be just about the baby and sex. For Alana, too many to mention…..trust, dealing with her emotions concerning her ex, the baby, her family, plus secrets; let’s just say prepare yourself for one steamy read which is very emotional on many levels as only Abby Green can write. This book has so many layers and when their secrets and feelings are revealed, be prepared; it was marvellous to read.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

SUNSET BAY - Susan Mallery

Author: Susan Mallery

Line: Pocket Star Books

Release month North America/UK: March/February 2009

Back-Blurb:

L.A. accountant Megan Greene has a successful job, a handsome cardiologist fiancé, and a doting father. Surely they make up for her estranged sister and hypochondriac mother...and a niggling sense that something, somewhere, got lost along the way. But then Megan's life falls spectacularly apart. Faced with the knowledge that neither her father nor her fiancé are the men she thought they were, she is loath to trust Travis -- the high school boyfriend who never quite left her heart. But his reappearance stirs dreams she once reluctantly packed away, and forces her to confront her relationship with her sister -- a bond that has been strained to the limit but has never quite broken. And amid the turmoil lies the promise of a future Megan never expected -- one that may turn out to contain everything she really needs....

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

“What if you got another chance at the life that got away?”

I can personally attest that Sunset Bay by New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery is a book for all women of all ages. It’s also Susan’s debut into women’s fiction and I hope she continues on this path. I can only say I was personally blown away and cried my heart out! While reading this incredible story I was forced to take a personal look at myself and ask the question some of us are afraid to ask concerning my dreams. Have I accomplished them or some where along the way, were they lost?

We all make personal choices for love, for family and for friends and sometimes along the way we loose a part of ourselves. Books like this exceptional story remind us, give us a wake up call and hopefully we can learn from stories like this and grow because of them.

The character Megan Greene in Sunset Bay was difficult for me to read because of the family dynamics……her spoiled sister, her doting father and her very selfish and verbally abusive mother. As usual, Susan Mallery interjects humour into her storyline but makes this so believable you want to stand up and yell at them all while laughing and crying at the same time. But it was Megan’s courage I adored and in the end the decisions she made on a personal level.

Megan’s first love was Travis, the high school bad boy who also came from a physically abusive family. Travis is so passionate and honourable and for me sort of a knight in shining armour. He is also dark and edgy and at times afraid of his feelings for Megan. Their history is well let’s say sweet and yet in the end very emotional; it’s a love story about second chances.

All of the characters in Sunset Bay are unique, from Megan’s immediate family, to her special friends, Travis, and her cheating doctor fiancé. When a secret is revealed which eventually rips her family apart you will certainly be shocked.

If you believe in dreams coming true and second chances then I encourage you to read Mallery’s Sunset Bay because I sincerely believe this book will win many awards, it’s that special.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

Behind the Story: "The heroine came to me one Saturday afternoon while I was watching Project Runway. (I’m obsessed with Project Runway.) With great excitement, I told my agent all about this quirky, artsy girl. Megan was one of those kids who could take an outfit from ordinary to awesome with nothing but scissors and some thread. She saw art in fabric and texture, put together odd combinations that shouldn’t have worked but did.

What would happen to a girl like that, I wondered, if she bowed to family pressure and got a “sensible” job? And how would she feel about a sister who rejected sensibility to pursue her own crazy dream?" A quote from Susan on a recent blog post at TRRC, post here.

MISTRESS UNDER CONTRACT - Natalie Anderson

Author: Natalie Anderson

Line: Harlequin Presents/Mills & Boon Modern Heat

Release month North America: March 2009/UK: February 2008
OZ/NZ: April 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual



Back-Blurb:

When high-flying Daniel Graydon hires Lucy Delaney as a temporary bar manager, he doesn't expect much from her. Lucy is his complete opposite: carefree and fun-loving. He can't figure out why on earth he's so attracted to her!

The only thing Lucy and Daniel have in common is their reluctance to have a committed relationship. When one steamy night together is not enough, Lucy is offered a short-term contract in Daniel's bed…only to find she's falling for him, the one man she can't have….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Daniel and Lucy were as different as night and day. Natalie Anderson has captured their differences and passion for each other is a beautiful love story, Mistress Under Contract.

When Daniel’s cousin Laura asks him to take care of her trendy bar while she’s away and her bar manager makes a mess of things, Daniel seeks out the help of a “temp” agency and walks in to find the flamboyant Lucy applying for a temporary position. He notices how different she is from the women he is usually attracted to but there something about her and her sassy mouth that intrigues him. He’s desperate to hire a manager, so he takes a chance but soon learns that she never sticks around for long. That suits him fine, as he wants no relationship, no commitment, nothing from her other than her taking care of the bar. Daniel learned the hard way as a teenager when his mother left his workaholic father that commitment and marriage don’t work.


Daniel is quite the stunning lawyer. He’s wanted by his firm to become a partner, by the university to teach and there’s a possibility he might someday made a judge. He’s a workaholic where Lucy is not. They are so very different, at times it’s amusing to read and to watch this “buttoned up man” fall to Lucy’s charms.

Lucy is a very interesting character. She has spirit, determination to prove herself, soul and she takes nothing from anyone but she also has self esteem issues. She’s had several disappointments in life and she also does not commit. What Lucy doesn’t count on is she loves her position as manager and she literally turns the bar around, makes it profitable and has an incredible staff. She wants to stay for many reasons……as the manager and because of Daniel and what they share.

With Daniel being the successful lawyer and her going from job to job, their differences become apparent when one of his co-workers points that out to Lucy. You will ache for Lucy when the rug is pulled out from her but as this talented author Natalie Anderson pens her ending to Mistress Under Contract you will not want their incredible love story to end. The lessons from this story are lessons we should all learn…..faith, hope and trust.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

PLEASURE, PREGNANCY AND A PROPOSITION - Heidi Rice

Author: Heidi Rice

Line: Harlequin Presents/Mills & Boon Modern Heat

Release month: North America: March 2009 UK: November 2008

The S-Factor: Sizzling and Sassy

Back-Blurb:

Sexy millionaire aristocrat Luke Devereaux showed up at Louisa's office, marched her to a doctor and demanded she take a pregnancy test! Much to her complete shock and horror, it was positive!

Nearly three months before, Luke had shown Louisa a night of pleasure she could never have imagined—and which would never be repeated. But the dramatic consequences meant Luke was now demanding marriage—and his proposition came with a tantalizing promise: more nights of unbelievable pleasure….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Again, Heidi Rice has outdone herself with this amazing contemporary romance Pleasure, Pregnancy and a Proposition. The title is literally the story as the very sexy Luke and the spirited Louisa meet and can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Their sexual attraction for each other is extremely strong.

The reader immediately knows there’s going to be a problem when Luke shows up at Louisa’s office because he suspects she might be carrying his child. When this is confirmed, he insists they head out to his country home to sort things out. Let’s just say the heat is turned up a notch as they try to determine what should be done and of course they each have their own ideas on how they should proceed. Just prepare your self for their arguments and their passion.

I adored Louisa’s character, she has a passion for her job as a writer for a woman’s magazine, a passion for life itself and no one is going to tell her what to do, not her father nor the extremely handsome and wealthy Luke Devereaux. You just immediately know this couple are meant to be together but their journey is spirited and very rocky at times.

Luke Devereaux’s passion for Louisa leaps off the pages. However, his secrets and his coming to terms with his past will have you in tears. For Pleasure, Pregnancy and a Proposition was indeed a pleasure to read.


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Reviewed by: Marilyn

REVIEW: TWO WEEKS IN THE MAGNATE'S BED by NICOLA MARSH

Title: Two Weeks in the Magnate’s Bed

Author: Nicola Marsh

Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat

Release month: March 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

He’ll tempt her…

Shipping tycoon Zac McCoy can sense there is a passionate woman behind Lana Walker’s shy exterior. Whilst aboard his luxury yacht, he’ll tempt her out to play!

He’ll tease her…

Lana always looks before she leaps. But the captivating Captain has her throwing caution to the wind. The gloves come off, the silk dresses slip on – and the real Lana begins to emerge.

He’ll take her!

He’ll have her as his two-week mistress. But as land approaches, a fortnight may not be enough…

Review:

A Plain Jane is whisked off her feet by a gorgeous shipping tycoon in the latest sizzler by Nicola Marsh: Two Weeks in the Magnate’s Bed!

Shipping tycoon Zac McCoy finds himself swapping designer suits for a sailor outfit when his uncle asks him to go undercover aboard one of his luxury cruise liners to weed out a saboteur who is putting a spoke in the wheels of what was a well-oiled machine. Zac just wants to do his job and to put his uncle’s mind at rest, but when he spots Lana Walker lurking in the shadows, Zac’s interest is piqued.

Sick and tired of being the shy introvert nobody takes any notice of, Lana decides to go on a cruise, leave her geeky clothes behind and unleash her inner vixen – it’s just a shame that nobody’s told her how to walk in high heels! Lana is just about to go and cower beneath the duvet in her cabin, after taking a tumble in her killer heels, when she stumbles into Zac in his sexy sailor’s uniform - that accentuates his every muscle!

Lana thinks that a guy as gorgeous as Zac couldn’t possibly find her attractive – until he kisses her and leaves her breathless!

Zac and Lana soon begin a steamy affair. But what was meant to be a no-strings affair soon begins to get serious! Will Zac and Lana’s shipboard romance give way to the real deal?

Nicola Marsh is just superb at creating realistic characters that leap off the pages and in Two Weeks in the Magnate’s Bed, she has created a smart, intelligent and absolutely wonderful heroine in Lana, whilst Zac is a sexy hero women everywhere would just love to be swept off their feet by! Two Weeks in the Magnate’s Bed sparkles with oodles of charm, humour, sizzling sexual tension and tender romance! Don’t miss it!

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THE ITALIAN'S BOUGHT BRIDE - Kate Hewitt

Title: THE ITALIAN’S BOUGHT BRIDE

Author: Kate Hewitt

Line: Mills and Boon Modern /Harlequin Presents
Release month:
USA: February 2009 UK: September 2008

The S-Factor: Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

Allegra Avesti never realized that her fiancé, wickedly handsome tycoon Stefano Capozzi, saw her as just another item on his agenda. How could she share her life with a man who'd negotiated the terms of their marriage in the boardroom rather than the bedroom? Years later, Stefano needs Allegra—and is determined to claim his runaway bride.

The defiant Allegra will return to Italy with him—and if he has to seduce her into agreeing, then that will make it all the more pleasurable for him….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥
Allegra had it all, wealth, beauty and now she is about to marry Stefano Capozzi who’s handsome, successful and she adores him until she over hears a conversation in which she learns her marriage has been arranged. She’s been lied to by her parents and most of all by the man she loves. She’s determined not to go through with the marriage and with the help of her mother she flees from Italy, literally leaving her bridegroom at the altar and goes to England. With hard work and determination, Allegra studies and becomes a speech therapist that also utilizes art as a form of therapy and has become quite successful in working with children.

Stefano is a self made millionaire but like most men who came up the hard way needs social connections by marrying into a well connected family. However, what he doesn’t count on is being left at the altar. Now years later while meeting with a physician to obtain assistance for his friends son, he learns that Allegra might be his only hope in assisting with the therapy this small child so badly needs and in the end, helping him to return to a normal life.

This story will tug at your heart in three different ways. First of all Allegra’s flight from the man she loved, not only leaving her home but the scorn she endured from her parents and uncle and her mother’s betrayal. Then of course, when Stefano’s past is revealed, it will tear at your heart and you’ll understand why he holds back his feelings and at times, is ruthless. Last, the sweet little boy Lucio and how Allegra helps him to heal will have you in tears. The Italian’s Bought Bride has a few lessons to be learned; it’s about forgiveness, and about accepting the consequences for one’s actions.

Once again, Kate Hewitt pens a brilliant love story, full of passion and promise one you won’t want to miss.

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Reviewed by: Marilyn

From Kate’s Website: “ I’d wanted to write a book where the hero and heroine have a shared history for awhile, and all the dimensions and dynamics a past relationship create. Yet Stefano and Allegra’s story took some time for me to discover; I’d almost written a completely different book until I realized just what they were trying to tell me about themselves!” K. Hewitt

REVIEW: THE DOCTOR CLAIMS HIS BRIDE by FIONA LOWE

Title: The Doctor Claims His Bride

Author: Fiona Lowe

Line: Mills and Boon Medical Romance

Release month: March 2009

The S-Factor: Sweet

Back-Blurb:

A nurse worth waiting for

Nurse Mia Latham thinks she’s found the perfect solution to get her life in order – a new job on an idyllic tropical island. But, thanks to her arrogant, teasing and devastatingly handsome new boss

Dr Flynn Harrington, life isn’t quite as simple as she might have hoped!

Flynn can see Mia is hiding secrets, but the one thing she can’t disguise is her passion for him! Flynn knows a thing or two about running away, but something about this beautiful nurse makes him want to unpack his suitcases and settle down – with Mia!

Review:

Packed with plenty of emotion and heart, The Doctor Claims His Bride is the latest heartwarming tale from talented Australian Medical Romance writer Fiona Lowe.

The past few years haven’t been kind to Nurse Mia Latham. She’s had plenty of knocks and lots of ups and downs, but she’s adamant that her new job on Kirra Island will be a fresh start for her. Mia knows that working on the remote Aborigine island is not going to be easy, but she’s looking forward to the challenge and to hopefully put to rest some ghosts from the past.

Dr. Flynn Harrington is the resident doctor on Kirra Island, having decided to make the beautiful yet far-flung isle his home after getting his heart broken many years ago. Falling in love hadn’t been a part of his plan, but when he claps eyes on Nurse Mia, he immediately senses that she’s hiding something – and that she’s just as drawn to him as he is to her.

Mia refuses to have anything to do with Flynn. She’s determined to keep their relationship strictly professional. But under the tropical island sky, will she be able to resist the charming doctor’s tempting kisses? And will she lets the ghosts that dog her every move ruin her last chance of happiness?

I thoroughly enjoy reading Fiona Lowe’s wonderful Medical Romances and I absolutely adored reading The Doctor Claims His Bride! Full of the warmth, humour, pathos and detailed medical scenarios that have become her trademark, The Doctor Claims His Bride is a tender, poignant and highly absorbing Medical Romance that will tug at your heartstrings, move you to tears and make you fall in love all over again!

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THE CHILDREN'S DOCTOR'S SPECIAL PROPOSAL - Kate Hardy

Title: THE CHILDREN’S DOCTOR’S SPECIAL PROPOSAL

Author: Kate Hardy

Line: Mills & Boon Medical

Release month UK: March 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

A special bride for a special doctor

New consultant paediatrician Rhys Morgan is everything the hospital grapevine promised: piercing blue eyes, perfect physique and a mysteriously guarded manner. He is also Katrina’s boss, but children’s doctor Katrina thinks she’s safe from Rhys’s charms. Until they discover a shared commitment to their little patients – and a heartfelt passion for each other.

Rhys has never believed in happy families, yet Katrina opens his eyes to what love and family really mean. Her courage and vulnerability create a fierce desire to protect her. Enough, perhaps, to make Rhys risk his heart with the most special proposal of all …

Review: ♥♥♥♥

This is the second book in ‘The London Victoria’ duo and follows on from The Greek Doctor’s New Year Baby (released in the UK – January 2009).

Rhys is a naturally guarded and private person but when he starts to work with Katrina he is charmed by her warm, sunny personality. They work together on a children’s ward and although Rhys is very good with the patients and their parents, Katrina is the one they seek when in need of comfort or further explanations. She has a natural gift with children and it is obvious to Rhys she doesn’t just see her job as work – it is who she is.

Katrina is instantly attracted to Rhys but is wary of relationships, particularly with a colleague, as a previous boyfriend left her feeling damaged due to his inability to accept her hearing difficulties. Rhys gradually persuades her that he doesn’t see this as a problem and slowly restores her confidence in herself. All that stands between them is Rhys’s past and a secret he cannot bear to tell her.

Kate Hardy has handled Katrina’s hearing difficulty sensitively, positively and with great feeling, this issue adding to the story rather than detracting from it. The medical facts are pertinent and to the point without bogging down the romance between Rhys and Katrina. A truly heartwarming story about learning to trust again and triumph over adversity.

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Review by: Joanne

IN THE ARGENTINE'S BED - Jennifer Lewis

Title: IN THE ARGENTINE’S BED
(The Hardcastle Progeny, Book 2)

Author: Jennifer Lewis

Line: Harlequin Silhouette Desire

Release month North America/UK: March 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

It was just one 'simple' mission—find out whether a winemaker in Argentina was a New York millionaire's long-lost son. But Susannah Clarke quickly learned Amado Alvarez played by his own rules. He'd give her the DNA sample she wanted—if she spent the night with him! And in a moment of madness, she'd given in, to his demand and to her own desire. Now she had to return to South America to face this compelling, sensuous man again—and to face the consequences of that one unforgotten, unforgettable night in a stranger's bed….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

In the Argentine’s Bed is the second book in The Hardcastle Progeny and for Amado Alvarez it’s a second chance at finding love but not an easy one for him. For both Amado and Susannah it’s also a lesson in learning to trust, about family and the true meaning of coming home.

Tarrant Hardcastle is NOT a nice man. He’s a millionaire several times over and he owns a Manhattan retail empire Hardcastle Enterprises. He is also just holding onto life by a mere thread and it’s his goal to track down the illegitimate sons he once denounced.

Susannah Clarke has been given the assignment of getting a DNA sample from the handsome and sexy Argentine vintner Amado Alvarez. What neither of them counts on is their immediate attraction and how they immediately enter into a relationship. Amado is definitely one attractive man with an incredible heart. He loves his family, his grapes and his winery and he has no knowledge that Tarrant Hardcastle is his father until he meets Susannah. When he learns about Tarrant, his relationship with his family and the secrets they’ve been keeping almost rip the family apart.

Susannah is not only beautiful she’s very successful as a wine buyer and well thought of at Hardcastle. She loves her work and all of the travel it involves. As a child, she moved from country to country as her parents were missionaries and she doesn’t know the meaning of “home” but she gets a taste of it with Amado and the Alvarez’s. What tugged at my heart was that Susannah really never new the true meaning of home until she met Amado. She was always on the outside looking in, always moving and never belonging until she met him.

In the Argentine’s Bed is a stand alone book and one you won’t want to miss. Tarrant Hardcastle, his wife, daughter and his long lost sons are an exceedingly pleasing series and I honestly can’t wait to read the last book, The Heir’s Scandalous Affair.

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Fresh Fiction Interview:
“In the first two books I had to keep a delicate balance between showing Tarrant’s growth as a human being, and keeping his cold, calculating edge, because I knew he was going to die by the third book. He’s already terminally ill in the first book, so it’s no surprise, but I didn’t want readers to be so attached to him that they’d be upset when he finally met his maker. I hope I managed to make Tarrant endearing enough to be sympathetic, but not so adorable that you’ll be furious with me for killing him off!” J Lewis

REVIEW: MOMMY IN TRAINING by SHELLEY GALLOWAY

Title: MOMMY IN TRAINING

Author: Shelley Galloway

Line: HarlequihAmerican Romance

Release month North America: January 2009

The S-Factor: Sweet

Back Blurb:

Matt Madigan's back in town…

And Minnie Clark's furious. Not only does she have her hands full being a new mother to her young niece, she has to face her high school crush again…and he's building a megastore that could put her struggling gift shop out of business!

Ten years ago Minnie was head over heels for Matt Madigan. Of course, the star football player never noticed. Minnie had to sit on the sidelines and watch as he dated her more popular, prettier sister. Now she has a constant reminder of those painful days—he's her new neighbor! But she's not going to let him waltz back into their Texas hometown full of big plans, just to break her heart all over again….

Review:

Mommy In Training by Shelley Galloway is a sweet romance about second chances. I really enjoyed the story and watching Matt and Minnie work through the challenges in front of them in order to get together at last. Whether it was Matt's job, or Minnie's own set of issues and insecurities or a combination thereof, there was always a chance that the two wouldn't get their very own happily every after.

Matt Madigan's returned home to Crescent View, Texas to oversee the development of the new SavNGo. While there, he's taking over the house of Mrs. Wyzecki, his beloved foster mother and neighbor of high school classmate Minnie Clark.

Minnie Clark has enough on her plate. Losing her older sister Paige was hard enough, but now she has her five year old niece to raise on her own and deal with the impending arrival of SavNGo, something she's sure is going to close down her small card shop. Even though she's happy to see the return of her high school crush, Matt, when she finds out the real reason he's in town, she finds it hard to see him as anything but a competitor, even if her heart feels differently.

I really enjoyed Mommy In Training. Matt is a real sweetheart of guy and I especially loved how he treated Kimber, Minnie's young niece and Mrs. Wyzecki. The relationship between him and Minnie evolved naturally and the tension between them was great. I really enjoyed the scene between Minnie and her ex where Matt makes a surprise appearance.

Mommy In Training is part of the MOTHERHOOD mini series.

Heroine Lovability Factor♥♥♥♥♥

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Reviewed by: Lisa

AT THE ARGENTINEAN BILLIONAIRE'S BIDDING - India Grey

Author: India Grey

Line: Mills and Boon Modern and Harlequin Presents
(International Billionaire’s Series)

Release month North America: March 2009 UK: March 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

Argentinean billionaire Alejandro D'Arienzo has fresh prey: heiress Tamsin Calthorpe. He sees her as a ravishing but spoiled beauty who destroyed his past—and he's ready to settle the score!

What Alejandro doesn't know is that Tamsin loved him, hiding her naïveté under the guise of willful sophistication. Now a talented designer, she's working hard to prove herself, despite her pedigree. But her credibility is in the hands of merciless Alejandro, who offers an ultimatum: her name in ruins, or her body in his bed…. He'll accept nothing less than her steamy surrender.


Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

I adore an excellent series and The International Billionaires are going to be wonderful to read; along with a rugby theme. India Grey’s contribution and the second book in the series is absolutely without a doubt……breathtaking as only she can write.

Immediately one will fall in love with the sexy Argentina rugby player, Aljandro D’Arienzo. He’s a gorgeous athletic specimen, handsome, rich and sinister. Years ago he lost his position on the English top rugby team due to a misunderstanding between the coach and his daughter, the Calthorpe’s. He’ll do anything and everything to get even, so he tricks Tasmin Calthorpe into returning with him to Argentina to design uniforms for his team.

You will adore Tasmin Calthorpe, her spunk and spirit just leap off the page. Her passion for fashion and proving herself are fierce. But her past with Aljandro, her youthful crush and her adult attraction will grip your heart. Their journey is full of passion, heat and at times hard to read as they are constantly in a battle of wills and sexual attraction. Be ready for tears when Tasmin shares past secrets. Their’s is such an incredible love story, full of adventure, heat plus the two settings……..rugby in England and polo in Argentina only add to this incredible book.

At the Argentinean Billionaire’s Bidding is like both sports, a very powerful addition to the series and trust me the ending will have you literally “cheering” in the stands!


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Fun gossipy tidbit: The International Billionaires series: Read the article “No Knickers at Twickers” here

UNTAMED BILLIONAIRE, UNDRESSED VIRGIN - Anna Cleary

Title: UNTAMED BILLIONAIRE, UNDRESSED VIRGIN

Author: ANNA CLEARY

Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat
Harlequin Presents



Release month North America: May 2009/ UK: December 2008 / Australia/NZ: Feb 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

The rebel billionaire…

Connor O’Brien has scars – inside and out – proof of the dark and dangerous life he leads.

The innocent girl next door…

Inexperienced Sophy Woodruff has never known a man as devastatingly sexy as Connor. Intense, brooding and distant, this bad boy is everything she shouldn’t desire…

He’ll take her – and show her the most exquisite pleasure!
Despite his vow of non-commitment, Connor can’t resist bedding Sophy. But Sophy is a virgin, and once he’s taken her innocence he’s not sure he can walk away…

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Our alpha is Connor O’Brien….just envision tall, dark, handsome and mysterious. He is a man who is totally dedicated to his intelligence occupation and for a reason. He wants to attachments, no involvements as he’s been there and done that; as a result he lost his wife and son in an airplane crash.

Sophy Woodruff you’ll immediately love. She’s lovely, sweet and only wants a family who will love and accept her. Sophy was adopted but has always felt her adoptive parents loved their only child more and the proof of that is they have moved to England to be with that daughter and their grandchildren.

Sophy has discovered she has her biological father living right there in Sydney and she has a half brother. She and her father have been secretly meeting but it’s been a very painful experience for Sophy. He’s cold, uncaring and wants to pay her off. Sophy is not aware she also has a grandfather and he was a very old and dear friend of Connor’s dad.

Upon his arrival for his R&R in Sydney, Connor’s father’s dearest friend approaches him and requests he do a favour, surveillance on a young lady he believes is having an affair with his son. Of course, as the story unfolds one learns that the supposed lover is Sophy’s biological father and everything becomes complicated.

Connor takes an office in Sophy’s building so he can watch her and doesn’t count on the attraction they will experience. Their love story is bittersweet. It will have you cheering when Connor finally gives in to his attraction. However, you will cry right along with Sophy when he returns to his intelligence position.

Untamed Billionaire, Undressed Virgin by author Anna Cleary is written in such a manner you’ll actually feel you’re in Sydney, in its posh areas, the gardens, restaurants, and shops. Anna is very expressive and detailed in each of her books and always such a joy to read.


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About the author: Check out Anna’s website here for her inspiration for the book. Reading it, I was transported to a country I’ve never visited but felt right at home.

ONE MONTH MISTRESS - Sabrina Philips

Title: VALENTI’S ONE – MONTH MISTRESS

Author: SABRINA PHILIPS

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: March 2009
UK: February 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering and Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

Faye Matteson cannot believe the nerve of Dante Valenti! The arrogant Italian expects her to become his mistress in exchange for his help with her failing business.

In her inexperienced youth, Faye gave her heart to Dante—but he took her virginity and left her devastated. She'd sworn, never again!

But no one should ever underestimate the power of Dante Valenti's sensuality. If he wants her, he will have her….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

I was actually blown away reading this debut book by Sabrina Philips. Faye and Dante’s story is incredible! Dante is one stubborn, ruthless and opinionated Italian. As for Faye, she’s beautiful, loving and loyal to her family.

They had a past. It began when Dante came into Faye’s parents London restaurant. He was immediately drawn to her, even though he realized she was just fresh out of school but he recognized Faye’s talents and offered her a job; moving her to Italy. She was an excellent apprentice. She also knew she had very intense feelings for Dante. One evening Dante and Faye act upon their attraction and he takes away her virginity. He’s so upset by his actions, he hurls cruel accusations at her and Faye flees Italy without a word.

Now Faye is back and she needs Dante’s financial assistance to keep Matteson’s, the family restaurant from going under. In the end, Dante agrees, dangles their past in her face and demands she become his mistress. Their interaction, their attraction, the nasty comments and accusations Dante’s says to Faye will make your heart ache, it certainly did mine. Their time together in Italy will put you in an emotional state just reading about it.

I admired Faye’s determination and her need to save her family restaurant for her mother, for her father’s memory and for the staff at Matteson’s no matter what it would cost her in the end. After weeks of hard work, the accusations, and the harsh comments are too much for her so again Faye leaves Dante to return home to rebuild Matteson's. However, now she has a secret and she's more determined to make the restaurant a success. As for Dante, let’s just say he learns many things about himself and what is most important to him which is Faye.

Sabrina Philips is a brilliant author and I feel so privileged to have been able to read her debut book. Its intensity will take your breath away and it will be one love story you will long remember.

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Humour Factor♥
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Reviewed by: Marilyn

REVIEW: PLEASURED IN THE PLAYBOY'S PENTHOUSE - NATALIE ANDERSON

Title: Pleasured in the Playboy’s Penthouse

Author: Natalie Anderson

Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat

Release month : February 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering

Back-Blurb:

At the red-hot millionaire’s mercy!

Bella has always felt like the ugly duckling in her family, but after one night with super-sexy Owen Hughes she feels like a beautiful swan. Until she realises Owen isn’t the ordinary guy she thought… This struggling waitress is daunted by his multi-millionaire status – he is exactly the kind of man she avoids!

But Owen won’t let Bella shrink back into her shell. Two weeks of pleasure in his penthouse and he’ll have her begging for more…

Review:

Natalie Anderson’s latest novel for Modern Heat, Pleasured in the Playboy’s Penthouse, is a fabulously feel-good romance that will go down a treat with Modern Heat readers everywhere!

Bella Cotton is not looking forward to being a bridesmaid at her sister’s posh wedding on a luxurious tropical island. Not only are her fellow bridesmaids all waif-like leggy blondes who could stop traffic, whilst she’s a Plain Jane who has spent most of her life lurking in the shadows, but she also has to contend with her relative’s constant questions about her non-existent love-life, whilst admitting to her father that she’s still working in a café, trying to make it an actress!

Things for Bella soon start to look up when Owen Hughes walks through the hotel doors. Sexy, charismatic and as handsome as sin, Owen soon makes it blatantly clear that the only woman he is interested in is her! A night of sizzling sex soon follows. But when Owen disappears into the night, Bella realizes that she’s been let down once again and vows never to let herself be used like that ever again.

Fed up of being stuck in a rut, she goes back home and decides to move to a city. However, just when she thinks that she’s starting afresh, she bumps into Owen and he makes it clear that he wants to pick up where they left off that night.

Owen had had to leave Bella because of his work and now that he’s found her again, he’s determined that he is not going to let her slip through his fingers! As luck would have it, Bella needs a place to stay and Owen offers her lodging in his sumptuous penthouse. Sparks soon start flying between the two of them and before long they’re indulging in a no-strings passionate affair.

But neither of them has counted on falling in love with one another…

Natalie Anderson is just brilliant at writing hot, sexy, funny, witty and contemporary stories about modern women falling in love with gorgeous Alpha heroes with hearts of gold. Pleasured in the Playboy’s Penthouse is a fantastic story, featuring a lovely heroine and a terrific hero you’d just love to meet, that will delight fans of this most talented writer of romantic fiction.

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Humour Factor♥♥♥♥

THE SECRET MISTRESS ARRANGEMENT - Kimberly Lang

Title: THE SECRET MISTRESS ARRANGEMENT

Author: KIMBERLY LANG

Line: Mills & Boon Modern Heat
Harlequin Presents

Release month UK: January 2009 USA: April 2009

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

One week of red-hot passion…

Time is money to drop-dead gorgeous tycoon Matt Jacobs. But when he meets beautiful Ella Mackenzie at his best friend’s wedding, he decides to break his rule and make the most of his week off work – by spending it in bed with her!

One convenient proposal!

Strong-willed Ella doesn’t do sleepovers – but Matt’s incredible lovemaking has got her hooked! So when their secret week between the sheets comes to an end, Ella finds herself accepting the sort of indecent proposal she never thought
she’d consider…

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

The Secret Mistress Arrangement is Kimberly Lang’s debut contemporary and it’s magnificent. As a reader I’m always so excited to read a new author, especially a M&B or Presents author. Honestly, they never let me down and Kimberly is no exception. I’m also a true romantic at heart so when I began reading this book and it began with a wedding setting, I was overjoyed and not disappointed.

Mel and Ella are best friends and Ella wants to make Mel’s wedding the wedding of her dreams. They were college roommates and later roomed together in Chicago. She is very special to Ella as she has no family and Mel and her family have adopted Ella into their fold. Let’s just say Ella’s fond memories of family as such, relate to her grandparents who raised her.

Ella is petite, beautiful, feisty, bright, organized and is making plans after the wedding to move to Alabama to begin a new job, a new life and return to her Grands home. Quite honestly she has commitment issues and you will want to help her along because she is such a lovely woman who needs that extra “push”.

The groom and Matt have known each other forever and Matt is his best man. He has arrived late for the rehearsal dinner from Atlanta due to a late flight. This attorney is to die for; he’s handsome, he has an incredible body and well let’s just say is very very good at everything he does in and out of the bedroom. Matt’s goal is to make partner by his mid thirties and he’s a workaholic. He comes from a large and close family, is the youngest and even though he loves his family, would rather spend his time in Chicago with Ella.

Matt and Ella’s journey in finding love begins with a dance at their friends wedding and then Matt invites Ella to dinner and the chemistry between them is hot! They act upon their attraction and the next morning they make the decision to continue their affair in secret for a week. In return Matt will help Ella pack for her move and it will give him time to get to know this lovely woman. Their time together will take your breath away, not only their passion but their romantic journey, first as friends and then as lovers.

Matt and Ella’s goodbyes, well have some tissues ready for the farewell and for their future struggles. Kimberly Lang has crafted such a beautiful and romantic love story. I congratulate Kimberly on her debut book and look forward to reading many more.


Hero Hotness Factor♥♥♥♥♥
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Reviewed by: Marilyn

Fun gossipy tidbit about author:

On the “Dear Reader” page of her book, Kimberly states she’s a hopeless romantic and loves to fall in love. That’s why she reads romance.

THE ROYAL DOCTOR'S BRIDE - Jessica Matthews

Title: THE ROYAL DOCTOR’S BRIDE

Author: Jessica Matthews

Line: Mills and Boon Medical
Harlequin Presents Extra

Release Month: UK: now
NA: May ‘09

The S-Factor: Sweet and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

Royal duty or real love?

As an ER doctor, Gina Sutton is ready for anything—until Dr. Ruark Thomas enters her organized world and turns it upside down! He’s the most handsome man she’s ever met, and working with Dr. Thomas is going to be hard. But he has another surprise for Gina. . .he wants to marry her!

Ruark is actually Prince of Marestonia, the neighbouring island to Gina’s own birthplace, Avelogne. With tensions escalating on the islands, Gina and Ruark must unite to create peace. But this will be no marriage of convenience—Ruark wants to make Gina his royal bride for real!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Is this the stuff that dreams are made of? Or nightmares?. . .

As an ER doctor, Gina Sutton is satisfied with her life. She’s busy all the time, well liked by the staff she works with, successful—at least on the outside. Inside? Well, that’s another story. She’s trying very hard to pretend she doesn’t know her family history. She’s trying very hard to forget she has a. . .(I’ll leave that for you to figure out)

Enter Dr. Ruark Thomas, taking over the position of her boss, within sight every time she looks up, and finally, offering her a proposition—er, proposal—she can’t refuse.

Jessica Matthews invented what seems to me the perfect Alpha-male. Ruark is strong, confident, knows exactly when to be forceful, yet he can be gently persuasive in the right situation. Gina is the perfect partner for him. She is stubborn and independent, not backing down from whatever stand she takes until she is convinced that changing her decision will be for the benefit of the masses.

So what was this proposal Ruark had for Gina? Did his title of Prince of Marestonia have anything to do with it?

Jessica has a way with words. This story flowed along beautifully. There was always a crisis at the right time to influence the hero and heroine’s decisions. The love scenes were realistic and well done. The tension between the two main characters was just enough to keep you reading on. Though dreams of royalty might be out of reach for most of us, this author made it believable.

This was an enjoyable read. I will definitely be on the look-out for more from this author.

Hero Hotness Factor: ♥♥♥♥♥

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Reviewed by: Donna B

CODERO'S FORCED BRIDE - Kate Walker

Title: CORDERO’S FORCED BRIDE

Author: KATE WALKER

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: February 2009 UK: March 2009

The S-Factor: Simmering and Sensual

Back-Blurb:

Alexa Montague is mortified! She's had to call off her sister's wedding, and now the ruthless, arrogant groom, Santos Cordero, is demanding shy ugly duckling Alexa take her sister's place!

The Montagues have stolen his money and his convenient bride, so Santos will enjoy taking Alexa instead. For Santos does not—cannot—love. But his body burns for Alexa as it has for no other woman before. He'll keep her captive in his bed until she's begging to be his….

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Codero’s Force Bride by Kate Walker is intense, explosive and the passion leaps off the pages. It’s one of those books that once you begin you’ll literally stay up all night reading. From the moment I began reading, I absolutely knew I was going to fall in love with Santos Codero. He’s a man of many layers and he’s determined to have what he wants and will go to any lengths to get it. So on his wedding day when his future bride’s sister appears on the scene to announce her sister has run off with the man she loves, what does he do? He invites all of the guests back to his home for the reception, including the bride’s parents who have stolen a fortune from him.

Alexa Montague is one determined young woman. The first time she met Santos there was an electric charge between them and now she is facing him head on and determined that her sister and her family will survive Santos. What she doesn’t count on is that Santos now has a plan, that very plan to still gain the respectability by marrying a Montague, giving that respectability not only to his business but also to his heirs. So the revised plan leaves it to Alexa to wed Santos and he’s not going to take no for an answer.

There’s no denying the attraction and desire they both feel for each other. Immediately Santos recognizes it, and is drawn like a moth to Alexa. He wants her and he’s going to have her no matter what. He even lets his guard down and shares his horrible childhood with her, something he’s never shared with another woman and reading about it will have you shedding tears. For Santos, she is like no other woman he has ever known but he keeps fighting it and chalks it up to the passion they share.


As their story unfolds, you will learn that Alexa feels deeply for this proud Spaniard and that he literally rips her heart out. She has such a low opinion of herself and she sincerely believes herself to be the unattractive sister while it’s obvious Santos feels differently. Her realization that he will never love her, her struggle to walk away from him, just prepare yourself for the emotion the author delivers.

Cordero’s Force Bride is part of the Bedded by Blackmail series and a wonderful addition especially with this year being Harlequin’s Diamond Anniversary, celebrating sixty years. It’s a beautiful sensual and passionate love story and one you definitely won’t want to miss.


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Reviewed by: Marilyn