THE ITALIAN'S CAPTIVE VIRGIN - India Grey

Title: THE ITALIAN’S CAPTIVE VIRGIN

Author: India Grey

Line: Mills and Boon

Release month UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet, Sensual, Sexy

Back-Blurb:

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


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

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

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

HIRED FOR THE BOSS'S BED - Robyn Grady

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

Author: Robyn Grady

Line: Harlequin Presents

Release month:

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

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sexy

Back-Blurb:

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

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by Marilyn

THE SHEIKH'S CONVENIENT VIRGIN - Trish Morey

Title: THE SHEIKS CONVENIENT VIRGIN

Author: TRISH MOREY

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

Release month:

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

The S-Factor: Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

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

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

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

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

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

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

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


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

Review by Marilyn

THE SHEIKH'S CHOSEN QUEEN - Jane Porter

Title: THE SHEIKH’S CHOSEN QUEEN

Author: JANE PORTER

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS ( The Desert Kings)

Release month North America: April 2008 UK: January 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual and Sweet

Back-Blurb:

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

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

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

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

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

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


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

Reviewed by Marilyn

MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON - Nicola Marsh

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

Author: Nicola Marsh

Line: Harlequin Presents
Mills and Boon Modern Romance


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

The S-Factor: Sizzling

Back-Blurb:

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

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

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

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

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


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

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

Reviewed by Marilyn

HOUSEKEEPER TO THE MILLIONAIRE - Lucy Monroe

Title: HOUSEKEEPER TO THE MILLIONAIRE

Author: LUCY MONROE

Line: HARLEQUIN PRESENTS EXTRA
MILLS AND BOON MODERN EXTRA (What the Rancher Wants)

Release month North America: April 2008 UK October 2007

The S-Factor: Sizzling, Simmering & Sweet

Back-Blurb:

Vacancy: housekeeper needed for eligible millionaire!

Sexy millionaire Win Garrison’s requirements for hiring a new housekeeper are simple – he wants someone to make his life easy – not someone who tries to get a ring on his finger!

When curvy Carlene Daniels arrives on his doorstep, Win isn’t fooled by her oversized jumper and hastily pulled-up hair. He can see she’s a knock-out! So why is she trying to look like a frump? All it makes him want to do is get her out of the clothes – and into his bed! This is one housekeeper who doesn’t seem to want to play… But what this rancher wants he always gets!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

Lucy Monroe absolutely charmed me with this book. It was one of those love stories ....sweet yet steamy and the main character Charlene Daniels we briefly met in The Rancher Rules. In both books, Charlene’s good looks and sexy figure give both men and women the wrong impression. No one realizes that she graduated at the top of her class in English literature, and for most of her teen to adult life, she was misjudged based on her looks and her recent occupation as cocktail waitress at the Dry Gulch, Charlene’s morals are impeccable, she has never been intimate with a man. She did try to seduce a rancher and it backfired’ a few people were privileged with that information, she is extremely nervous that her chances of being hired for a teaching position might be compromised. Her goal is to live her dream…..to teach and to be loved for who she is not how she looks!

When Charlene arrives at Win Garrison’s ranch to apply for a temporary housekeeping position, all she cares about is doing a good job, and earning some extra money before turning in her teaching application. What Charlene does not count on is that Win Garrison is a stunning cowboy with shocking good looks, an incredible body, sexy, charming and absolutely makes it clear he is off limits for marriage. He had been there, done that and it failed miserably. However, Win is determined to bed Charlene at any cost!

Their entire journey is a romantic dance of tension, foreplay, sass and a real battle of strong wills. Win wants Charlene at any cost and to keep her there in the evenings, so he begs her to stay when his sister literally “dumps” her two small children on his doorstep. Win’s determination and Charlene’s distress are something you will not want to miss! Their love story is beautiful; it is passionate, sizzling, and definitely sweet. I loved this book and it sincerely touched my heart, as I am sure it will touch yours!

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Lucy admits that her character Charlene Daniels grabbed onto her heart and wouldn’t let go in her earlier book and she just had to tell Charlene’s story. I am glad she did!

Reviewer: Marilyn

MY TALL DARK GREEK BOSS - Anna Cleary

Title: MY TALL DARK GREEK BOSS

Author: Anna Cleary

Line: Harlequin Presents Extra
Mills and Boon Modern Romance

Release month North America: April 2008 UK / Australia: November 2007

The S-Factor: Simmering & Sweet

Back-Blurb:

Tall, dark, handsome Greek…Gorgeous billionaire Samos Stilakos is the answer to every woman's prayers. And from what Ellie O'Dea can tell, he's happily answered a lot of them.Boss?But Sam is also Ellie's new boss! Even though they've had one thrillingly passionate night, Ellie is going to have to forget it—fast.Or lover?Only, Sam wants to explore the attraction that sizzles between them—and being Ellie's boss and the CEO, he's not used to taking no for an answer!

Review: ♥♥♥♥♥

A “Greek God” in every sense, Sam is proud, very much the alpha but he has a well “hidden sensitive side” when it comes to Ellie his personal PA. You see, they actually at one time were two ‘Strangers in the Night” who shared an incredible night of passion. Months ago, they met at a company masquerade ball and they were so drawn to each other and acted on that attraction. However, Ellie made Sam promise not to remove her masque and if he in the future were to recognize her, he was to never mention their night of passion and Sam agreed because he knew Ellie would run!

Ellie has worked for the bank for years, promoted several times and her main goal is to have enough money saved to quit her job and have a child before it is too late. As far as relationships, Ellie’s success rate is “zero” so she plans to have a procedure in order to achieve her goal. However, when she is given a promotion to be Sam’s PA with an increase in salary she accepts. However, he is a threat to everything she wants and she’s scared. Sam pulls Ellie like a magnet; it is actually painful and a couple of times she gives in to her desire and throws caution to the wind. However, it all backfires for both of them.

This was an incredible love story and at times hard to read as you watched Ellie and Sam’s struggle. Sam in a way lives by the old Greek ways, at one time he was married and hurt so he has trust issues and his strong feelings for Ellie confuse him. Whereas, Ellie is hurt by Sam’s comments, actions and yearns for him to see her as the person she really is and she feels “used” and decides to move forward, which means leaving Sam and the bank she loves.

Heart breaking? Yes! However, you will not want to miss this wonderful romance and you will want to read more of Anna Cleary’s books. Congratulations Anna on this spectacular book; I can’t wait to read your next Presents!


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Did you know...

Anna earned an education degree in Queensland. When a friend suggested they make a pact to each start writing a romance, Anna accepted the challenge.

She was hooked from her very first line. Anna’s first published novel, My Tall, Dark, Greek Boss, explores the dilemma of a woman who longs to exchange her lovely, successful career for the joys and trials of motherhood.

MILLS AND BOON PRESENTS ... by Annie West, Annie Burrows and Margaret McDonagh

Title: Mills and Boon Presents…
Author: Annie West/Annie Burrows/Margaret McDonagh
Line: Anthology
Release month: April 2008
The S-Factor:Simmering
Back-Blurb:

The Billionaire’s Bought Mistress by Annie West

Billionaire businessman Rafe Benton sees beautiful Antonia as a pawn in his plans for revenge. He uses his wealth and devastating sex appeal to get her into his bed, but her pregnancy changes everything…

The Earl’s Untouched Bride by Annie Burrows

Heloise Bergeron is determined not to be forced into a bad marriage! She throws herself on the mercy of Charles Fawley, Earl of Walton, who then returns to England with a convenient wife – who inspires a very inconvenient desire!

An Italian Affair by Margaret McDonagh

Sexy Italian Sebastiano Andriani has riches and fame, yet a heroic act has left his future uncertain. When he meets pretty, caring Gina McNaught, Seb awakens her desire, but can theirs ever be more than a holiday romance?

Review:

Penny Jordan introduces three of Mills and Boon’s fastest rising stars of category romance: Annie West, who writes for Modern romance, Annie Burrows, who writes for Historical Romance, and Margaret McDonagh for Medical!

The Billionaire’s Bought Bride – Annie West

If you’re looking for passion, glamour, sophistication and torrid emotion, then Annie West’s The Billionaire’s Bought Bride will go down a treat.

Antonia Malleson’s father has just died and she’s left to face to music and pay the vast amount of debt which he has accumulated! Antonia has no job, no money and hardly any connections. But just when she was about to give up hope, she gets the shock of her life when billionaire Rafe Benton pays her debt!

Antonia is stunned, but the shocks just keep on coming when Rafe announces that he wants her to be his mistress…

Annie West’ brilliant tale is page-turning Modern Romance at its very best! Sizzling, emotional and poignant, The Billionaire’s Bought Bride cements Annie West’s position as one of the finest voices of the line!

The Earl’s Untouched Bride – Annie Burrows

If you like Regency romances, you will absolutely love Annie Burrows’ spellbinding tale of passion, adventure and emotion: The Earl’s Untouched Bride.

French Miss Heloise Bergeron does want to marry the cruel man her parents chose for her and she knows that the only man who could get her out of this horrible engagement is her sister’s jilted fiancé Charles Fawley, the Earl of Walton.

Charles is stunned when Heloise begs him to marry her. Having been cruelly dumped by her sister for a commoner, he is not predisposed to help Heloise out. Unlike her sister, Heloise is shy, retiring and no beauty, but there’s something about her which just draws him to her, so he agrees to her request – little knowing that he’s about to fall passionately in love with his convenient bride!

The Earl’s Untouched Bride is a compelling Regency romance by a fabulous new writer of historical romance. Fast paced, funny, poignant and peopled with a gorgeous heroine and a scrumptious hero, The Earl’s Untouched Bride is the kind of Regency romance that deserves a place on your keeper shelf.

An Italian Affair – Margaret McDonagh

Fall in love with the gorgeous Sebastiano Adriani in Margaret McDonagh’s moving Medical romance, An Italian Affair.

Nurse Gina McNaught vowed never to get involved with another man ever again after her former boyfriend forced her to choose between him and the grandparents who had brought her up and had always been there for her. Gina is perfectly happy with her job, her career and living with her beloved grandmother. She doesn’t need a man – or so she tells herself…

Like Gina, Seb has had his heart bruised by avaricious women who’ve used him for his looks and his position. But there’s something about the Scottish nurse that just forces him to drop down his defences and to give his heart to her.

But Seb hasn’t been completely honest with Gina and he cannot help but wonder how the woman he’s fallen passionately in love with will react when she finds out that he’s been keeping secrets from her.

Margaret McDonagh’s fabulous Medical Romances have made her a firm favourite with readers everywhere! If you enjoy compelling, poignant and absorbing Medical romances, then make sure you add Margaret McDonagh’s name to your list

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The Novice Bride - Carol Townend

Title: The Novice Bride

Author: Carol Townend

Line: Historical

Release month: UK - March 2008/USA - August 2007

The S-Factor: Sweet

Back-Blurb:

INNOCENT BRIDE, CONQUERING HUSBAND!

As a novice, Lady Cecily of Fulford’s knowledge of men is nonexistent. But when tragic news bids her home immediately, her only means of escape from the convent is to brazenly offer herself to the enemy...as a bride!

With her fate now in the hands of her husband, Sir Adam Wymark, she battles to protect her family. Suspicions and betrayal are rife, yet their convenient marriage offers Cecily much more than comfort in her knight’s arms...

Review:

Set during the Norman Conquest, The Novice Bride takes a familiar conceit – having as its hero one of the invaders and its heroine a Saxon. This type of set up is a popular one as conflict between the characters is inevitable from the word go, and in some instances, authors using this type of plot let the stories write themselves. Not so Carol Townend! The tale that plays out in The Novice Bride is an utterly engaging one, and the author’s skill is so great that she effortlessly weaves the backdrop and central story together in such a way that the reader becomes enveloped in her historical world.

Indeed, it was the historical background that I found most enthralling in this story. The research is so thorough that everything seems real and authentic, and the experiencing of the sights and sounds of 11^th century England is a joy. I really didn’t want the story to end. Taking her reader through a poverty-stricken village, a post-invasion Winchester struggling to come to terms with its new masters and the bleakness of an unforgiving English winter, Carol Townend is a confident, enthralling historical writer, one who never lets the backdrop overshadow her central romantic story.

And what a romance! In Cecily, the author has crafted a lovely and lovable heroine whose innocence and inherent goodness are her defining qualities... I defy anyone who reads this not to fall in love with her from the start. Cecily’s journey from prim and proper nun to loving wife is thoroughly engrossing. As for the hero, Adam Wymark is a little sterner and his character is the more complex of the two, and he’s a hero I could really identify with. His growing love for Cecily is always believable and makes for great reading. The romance scenes are well handled and full of subtlety and sweetness.

The rest of the story is populated with interesting supporting characters and tension between both the protagonists and everybody else. Carol Townend really puts across a feeling of what it was like to live in these harsh, violent times which is why I loved the book so much. In fact, it’s my favourite historical romance yet!

Reviewed by: Gray

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Did you know that Carol's first novel, set in 11th century England, won the RNA New Writers' Award? To find out more about Carol why not visit her website ...

Have you read this book or others by the same author? Leave a comment, we'd love to hear from you!!!

Get 2 FREE books and a FREE mystery gift from eHarlequin.com

One-Night Love Child by Anne McAllister

Title: One-Night Love Child
Author: Anne McAllister
Line: Harlequin Presents
Release month: March 2008/April 2008
The S-Factor: Simmering
Back-Blurb:

It was one night as hot and passionate as only young love can be. But they left it at that. Flynn had the world to conquer—alone. Only three months later, Sara's life changed: she discovered she was expecting Flynn's baby. Now Flynn has taken his rightful place as the Irish Earl of Dunmorey. But once he discovers that he also has an heir, his strategy is simple: claim his love child. He wants his son, and he wants Sara, too…as his bride.

Review:

Anne McAllister’s latest novel for Harlequin Presents, One-Night Love Child is absolutely fantastic! Smart, sexy, funny and feel-good, One-Night Love Child is the kind of romance readers will devour in a single sitting!

Flynn and Sara had shared one night of unforgettable passion six years ago. However, when Flynn had left Sara, little did he know that he had left her pregnant with his love-child! When baby Liam was born, Sara sent Flynn a letter informing him of the birth of his son, but when she did not get a reply, Sara decided that she was going to raise Liam as a single mother, and try her best to forget Flynn.

Flynn had never quite managed to forget Sara, so when six years later, the letter she sent him finally reaches him, he decides to jump on a plane and go to Montana to get to know his son - and to convince the only woman he has ever loved, that she's the only one for him!

You can always rely on Anne McAllister to deliver a page-turning romance that will tug at your heartstrings, make you laugh out loud and leave you breathless – and One-Night Love Child is no exception! In One-Night Love Child, Anne McAllister combines lovely characters, steamy passion, hilarious moments and captivating romance and once again proves that when it comes to writing unforgettable romances, she is head and shoulders above most of the competition!



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The Soldier's Homecoming by Donna Alward

Title: The Soldier’s Homecoming
Author: Donna Alward
Line: Harlequin Romance
Release month: March 2008
The S-Factor: Sweet

Back-Blurb:

A hero for his country—home to win her heart!

Jonas Kirkpatrick left town to be a soldier without ever looking back. But Shannyn saw him every day in her little girl's green eyes.…

Six years later, Jonas has come home, changed utterly from the carefree boy Shannyn once knew. Hardened by war, Jonas can't allow himself to open his heart.

Until he discovers what he left behind—the unbreakable bond with a child he never knew existed, and the enduring love of the only woman who can make him whole again.

Review:

If you like the emotive storytelling of Lucy Gordon and Rebecca Winters, you will simply adore Donna Alward’s latest Harlequin Romance, The Soldier’s Homecoming!

Shannyn Smith had fallen head over heels in love with the gorgeous Jonas Fitzpatrick, but when he left town to become a soldier, Shannyn knew that she might never see Jonas ever again. However, Jonas had left her with a token of his love: a baby! Every time she looks at little Emma, Shannyn remembers the passion which she had felt in Jonas’ arms – even though she hasn’t seen him for six years. But when Jonas comes back home, Shannyn realizes that she’s got some explaining to do.

Jonas has changed since the last time she clapped eyes on him – he’s scarred, angry and hardened by war. When he realizes that Emma is his daughter, Jonas is furious that Shannyn kept her a secret, but he’s determined to make up for lost time and to get to know his child.

However, Jonas has got no intention of pursuing a relationship with Shannyn. But the attraction between the two of them has never wavered, however, will Jonas realize that Shannyn is the one woman who can make him whole again?

The Soldier’s Homecoming is one of the most moving romances I’ve ever read! Tender, poignant, dramatic and heartrending, Donna Alward will tug at your heartstrings and make you cry buckets, as she takes you on a wonderfully affecting journey that will simply leave you breathless!

Donna Alward is a bright new jewel in the Harlequin Romance crown and I cannot wait to read more wonderful stories by this talented storyteller!

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The Bride's Baby - Liz Fielding

Title: The Bride's Baby

Author: Liz Fielding

Line: Romance

Release month: April 2008

The S-Factor: Sweet

Back-Blurb:

The wedding of the season!

Event’s manager Sylvie Smith is organising a glittering fundraising event: a wedding show in a stately home. She has even been roped into pretending to be a bride – a bride who’s five months pregnant...

The bride everyone is talking about!

It should be every girl’s dream, designing a wedding with no expense spared, but not for Sylvie. Longbourne Court was her ancestral home, and she’s just discovered that the new owner is Tom MacFarlane: her baby’s secret father. Now Tom’s standing in front of her, looking at her bump...

A Bride for All Seasons

A spring wedding is in the air!

Review:

The Bride’s Baby is the first in a new Harlequin Mills & Boon Romance miniseries, and Liz Fielding kicks it off with her usual tug-at-the-heart emotional pull that is her signature of a fulfilling Romance read.

Sylvie Smith attempts to negotiate payment with a jilted groom – billionaire Tom MacFarlane and finds herself with more than she bargained for!

This is another dazzling story from the pen of Liz Fielding. Sylvie is a tough, no-nonsense heroine, and Tom is a gorgeous hero to fall in love with – and fall I did!

As well as enjoying the heartfelt emotion, I loved the humour in Sylvie’s “Oh, confetti” moments! As always, Liz Fielding has woven pure magic and by the end of the book she has her readers breathing a sigh or relief and contentment. Another for the keeper shelf!

Reviewed by: Sue

Hero Hotness Factor = ♥♥♥♥♥

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Did you know that this book is Liz Fielding's fiftieth for Mills & Boon? Visit Liz's Blog and Website to join in the celebrations - there are prizes to be won every week!

A Wedding in Warragurra by Fiona Lowe

Title: A Wedding in Warragurra
Author: Fiona Lowe
Line: Medical Romance
Release month: March 2008
The S-Factor: Sweet
Back-Blurb:

The single father’s Outback bride…

Single father Dr Baden Tremont moved to the Outback for a fresh start, and is focusing on raising his young daughter and his job as a flying doctor.
But working together side by side with new flight nurse Kate Lawson, Baden realises that there’s more to life than his work. They have both loved and lost in the past, and it will take courage now if they are to be a family together. Baden decides that he’s going to make that happen. Somehow, some way, he’s going to make Kate his Outback bride…

Join Fiona Lowe for a visit to the small Outback town of Warragurra, where there’s always a warm welcome!

Review:
Fiona Lowe’s warm-hearted Medical Romances have made her a huge favourite with readers – and if you haven’t discovered the magic of this talented storyteller, then pick up A Wedding in Warragurra and get ready to escape into her world of Outback romance!

After her husband’s death, flight nurse Kate Lawson left the town of Warragurra and spent some time in Europe; getting away from all the pain and suffering. But Kate had realized that she couldn't possibly keep running away, so she decided to go back home and to start getting back into the swing of things – even though she’s well aware that she will be the subject of malicious gossip!

Dr Baden Tremont is new in Warragurra, having left the city to start afresh in the little country town after the death of his beloved wife. Baden had sworn that he would never get involved with another woman ever again. But, once he clapped eyes on Kate, the heartbroken widower found himself unable to get his flight nurse out of his mind!

But can the two of them ever have a future together? Or will their pasts prevent them from moving forward?

Tender, romantic and absolutely enthralling, if you’re looking for an escapist but realistic tale featuring a lovely heroine, a gorgeous hero and plenty of atmosphere and vivid medical scenarios, then pick up A Wedding in Warragurra!


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MY LADY INNOCENT by ANNIE BURROWS

Title: My Lady Innocent
Author: Annie Burrows
Line: Mills and Boon Historical Romance
Release month: February 2007
The S-Factor: Simmering
Back-Blurb:

Innocent bride or treacherous temptress?

As the nobility jostles for the new King’s favour, Maddy is all alone. Landless and friendless, she is now beginning to suspect that someone wants her dead… So she accepts a bridegroom she has never met, intending to find peace at home.

But peace is in short supply when Maddy marries Sir Geraint, a powerful protector and a passionate man. Fiercely loyal to the King, Geraint cannot trust his Yorkist bride – but neither can he resist her innocent temptation!
Review:

Historical Romance fans are in for a treat this February with the release of Annie Burrows’ second historical, My Lady Innocent!

Set during the fifteenth century in the middle of the War of the Roses, My Lady Innocent is the story of Maddy, a nobleman’s daughter who finds herself being branded a traitor’s daughter, after her father refuses to pledge allegiance to Henry Tudor. Forced to live as a servant, Maddy is treated with derision and contempt by her cousin Eleanor and by everyone at court. However, Maddy cannot get of her head the fact that there is somebody who is keen to murder her…

When the King orders her to marry one of his knights, Maddy accepts. But her troubles are far from over, for her bridegroom, Sir Geraint, may be a wool merchant’s son, but he is determined to show her that he is now her lord and master…
But with a dangerous enemy on the loose, Maddy realizes that the only man who can save her is the husband she has grown to love!

My Lady Innocent is a terrific historical novel by an outstanding new writer of historical romance! Compelling, engrossing and passionate, you will not be able to put down this spellbinding tale of courage, intrigue, betrayal, and, of course, romance!



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Her One and Only Valentine - Trish Wylie

Title: Her One and Only Valentine
Author: Trish Wylie
Line: Mills and Boon Romance
Release month: February 2008
The S-Factor: Sweet
Back-Blurb:
He’s back – for the love he never should have let go…

When Kane Healey had to fight the hardest battle of his life, he decided to do it alone – learning the true meaning of if you love someone you have to let them go…
Young and afraid, Rhiannon discovered she was pregnant, and the man she needed by her side was her one and only. But Kane had gone. Unaware of the precious miracle he’d left behind…

Now they have one last chance to put past mistakes behind them… As the Valentine’s Day Ball approaches, will Kane get down on one knee and make his Valentine his bride?

Review:

Trish Wylie’s latest Romance, Her One and Only Valentine, is a warm-hearted and highly enjoyable contemporary romance that will, in true Trish Wylie style, make you laugh out loud as well as shed a tear!

Kane Healey was the first man Rhiannon McNally had loved – and he was also the father of her daughter Lizzie. However, Kane hadn’t wanted to have anything to do with Lizzie, so Rhiannon met and married another man and tried her best to get on with life. But when, years later, Kane comes back into her life, he drops a bombshell: he didn’t know that Lizzie was his daughter.

Kane is keen to get to know Lizzie, and in the process he finds himself getting close to Rhiannon,who is now widowed, once again. As their old flame rekindles, Rhiannon and Kane realize that theirs is a love that had never died. However, has too much water gone under the bridge for the two of them? Or will they be given a second chance?

Her One and Only Valentine is Trish Wylie at her very best! Emotional, dramatic, witty and moving, Her One and Only Valentine is a fabulous romance from a writer who always delivers!


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Mistress Under Contract by Natalie Anderson

Title: Mistress Under Contract
Author: Natalie Anderson
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Romance Extra
Release month: February 2008
The S-Factor: Simmering
Back-Blurb:

He’s her boss – and she’ll be his mistress…

When high-flying Daniel Graydon hires Lucy Delaney as a temporary bar manager, he doesn’t expect much from her. Lucy is the complete opposite of him – flighty, carefree and fun-loving. He certainly can’t work 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 no way enough, Lucy is given a short-term contract in Daniel’s bed…only for Lucy to find she’s falling for the one man she can’t have…

Review:

If you’re looking for a romance that is fun, fresh, feisty and feel-good, then you’d better add Mistress Under Contract by Natalie Anderson to your auto-buy list!

Hot-shot lawyer Daniel Graydon has got enough on his plate; he certainly doesn’t need the extra pressure of running his cousin’s club, while she’s off gallivanting round the world! As luck would have it, he meets Lucy Delaney, a woman who immediately informs him that she’s the answer to his prayers!

Lucy is looking forward to working for Daniel and she’s determined to prove to him that she can look after his cousin’s bar and make a success of it. However, what Lucy hasn’t counted on is falling in love with Daniel.

Daniel is her polar opposite and Lucy knows that she shouldn’t fall for him. However, when he kisses her, Lucy begins to wish that the two of them weren’t so different after all!

Will Daniel be able to convince Lucy that she’s the only woman for him?

Natalie Anderson is absolutely wonderful and I just cannot resist lapping up her novels in a single sitting! Mistress Under Contract is a fantastic contemporary romance full of intense emotions, funny moments, blazing sexual tension and moving romance; don’t miss it!

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His Mistress, His Terms by Trish Wylie

Title: HIS MISTRESS, HIS TERMS
Author: Trish Wylie
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Heat
Release month: January 2008
The S-Factor: Simmering
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 is back with a sensational new Modern Heat - His Mistress, His Terms!

Weeks ago, Merrow had spent a wonderful weekend in bed with a gorgeous Irish man called Alex. But back in the real world, she knows that she's got no chance of clapping eyes on Alex ever again. And even if she did, Merrow's tried - and failed - at settling down before, so she's determined to simply enjoy dating men without any strings attached. But when Alex turns up again, she realizes that that is easier said than done!

Alex is stunned when he finds out that he will be working in close proximity with Merrow, and the more time the billionaire playboy spends with the Irish beauty, the more he realizes that she is perfect mistress material. However, Alex soon realizes that he wants Merrow to be his - in and out of the bedroom!

Will Alex be able to show Merrow that he will not break her heart?

Witty, sensual and absolutely unputdownable, His Mistress, His Terms is Trish Wylie at her best! Merrow is the sort of heroine every woman wants to be, whilst Alex is the kind of man every woman wants to have!

Fresh, hilarious and feel-good, His Mistress, His Terms is a stylish Modern Heat you will not want to miss!

An Honorable Rogue - Carol Townend

Title: The Novice Bride

Author: Carol Townend

Line: Historical

Release month: NA Feb 2008

The S-Factor: Sensual

Back-Blurb:

CHARMED AND SEDUCED!

Benedict Silvester is a rogue and a flirt! His skill as a musician means he is always travelling...and he charms women wherever he goes. Yet he is on a special mission: to accompany Rozenn Kerber to England.

Rose is frustrated with Ben’s frivolous behaviour and annoyed that his wicked smile continually occupies her thoughts, for he can never offer the stability she craves. But on their travels, Rose begins to suspect that he may have a serious side, that Ben is more than he appears...

Review:

An Honorable Rogue is another winner from historical romance author Carol Townend and is another engaging exploration of life at the time of the Norman Conquest! The story begins in France and follows Benedict as he accompanies Rose on an adventurous passage to England. However, alongside the physical journey, Rose is also taken on a personal, sexual awakening, journey-of-discovery. Ben is a longstanding family friend, and although Rose finds him attractive, she has never allowed herself to dream that he could offer her the security and stability she craves. Ben is a lovable hero, full of warmth and charm. Unbeknown to Rose he has a secret undercover mission which adds mystery and excitement to the plot. Rose is an ambitious and strong woman who modern readers will find easy to identify with. She struggles to fit into society and her endeavours give her character an admirable inner strength. The relationship between the hero and heroine is frequently heartbreaking for the reader because Ben is obviously in love with Rose, yet she refuses to focus on his positive side, only seeing the negatives which he wraps up with his easy going, happy-go-lucky nature.

The author gives a fantastic attention to detail which enables the reader to feel like they are accompanying Ben & Rose on their voyage. The additional emotional journey that both the characters undertake has the story brimming with sensuality, tension and suspense making for real page-turning qualities. Carol Townend is adept at writing historical novels and An Honorable Rogue is one of her finest. Rich in historical detail it vividly brings a long-gone era to life, and is an utterly romantic read and a real winner. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by: Gray

Hero Hotness Factor = ♥♥♥♥♥

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Did you know that Carol's first novel, set in 11th century England, won the RNA New Writers' Award? To find out more about Carol why not visit her website ...

Have you read this book or others by the same author? Leave a comment, we'd love to hear from you!!!

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The Italian's Captive Virgin by India Grey

Title: The Italian's Captive Virgin
Author: India Grey
Line: Mills and Boon Modern Romance
Release Month: January 2008
The S- Factor: Sensuous
Back Blurb:
Italian tycoon Angelo Emiliani knows Anna Delafield is playing games: he wants to buy her French château, but it seems she’ll do anything to stop him. So he decides to teach her a lesson! Anna will be his VIP captive for a few days on his yacht. Hopefully, that should show her he’s not a man to be toyed with…

But as cabin fever sets in, passions erupt, and Anna quickly realises the price of stopping Angelo has just got higher. Now there’s more at stake than just saving the château… Anna’s at risk of losing her virginity and more…!

Review:
India Grey's second steamy Modern Romance, The Italian's Captive Virgin, is absolutely brilliant! Intense, emotional, passionate and wonderfully romantic, The Italian's Captive Virgin is the kind of book you will devour in a single sitting!

Anna Delafield is determined that property devloper Angelo Emiliani will not get his hands on her beloved Chaetau Belle-Eden. Anna vows that she will not let some cold hearted industrialist desecrate her childhood home and destroy a place that is full of wonderful memories for her. But Angelo never allows anything to stand in his way. However, he hasn't counted on Anna...

Sexy, vivacious and truly unique, Anna is nothing like the women he usually dates. But Angelo is strictly a one-night stand kind of guy. However, it looks like Anna may change his mind.

But both Angelo and Anna have secrets. Secrets that could destroy any chance of a possible future together...

India Grey is absolutely sensational! In The Italian's Captive Virgin, readers will adore Angelo, a gorgeous Alpha male who'll make scores of women melt in a puddle of lust; whilst they will love Anna for her strength, her resilience, but also her vulnerabilty.

The Italian's Captive Virgin is a wonderfully passionate romantic tale about two wounded souls coming together, which will delight and enchant fans of Modern Romance everywhere!

All I Want For Christmas - Ann Roth

Title: ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS

Author: Ann Roth

Line: Harlequin American Romance

Release month: North America & UK/ November 2007

The S-Factor: Sweet and Simmering

Back-Blurb:

What exactly are you asking Santa for?"It's A Secret. How Do You Spell Mommy?" Nothing is more precious to Ryan Chase than five-year-old Maggie. She's the reason the widower moved to Halo Island in the first place—he wanted to get away from his hectic, work-all-hours job so he could spend more time with his daughter. Ryan will do anything to make sure Maggie is protected from hurt, which means no attachments to anyone who comes into their lives—and plans to leave. As soon as the holidays are over, Tina Morrell is going back to Seattle to her busy job, and hopefully a big promotion. Her career has always been the most important thing in Tina's life—that is, until she meets the adorable Maggie and her incredibly hunky father. But Ryan won't let Tina get close—even though his daughter seems to be bringing them together. As the spirit of Christmas descends over the island, it's the wishes of one little girl that may be granted!

Review:

The magic of the holiday season is captured in Ann Roth’s All I want for Christmas. It’s an extremely heart-warming and lovely book full of fabulous characters and set on an island in Washington State. What more could a reader ask for than the warm residents of Halo Island.

Tina Morrell lost both of her parents at a young age and her beloved Kindergarten teacher GG along with many neighbours have raised her in a loving environment, sent her to college, believed in her ability to someday run her ad agency and loved her to death. Tina is now a very successful advertising exec and up for a promotion at her Seattle firm. However, she has taken a leave to take care of GG who is recuperating from hip surgery.

Ryan Chase, left Los Angeles as a successful business man and has taken his captivating five year old daughter Maggie and moved to Halo Island, to give her stability and a home in a wonderful neighbourhood. Ryan’s wife died when Maggie was young, his fiancé left them for a “high powered” career and then his nanny also had to leave to help raise her grandson. The loss has affected both Ryan and Maggie. Maggie longs for a woman or mother figure in her life and Ryan wants no part of any sort of relationship, especially a permanent one.

Yet when Ryan and Tina meet, his daughter is immediately drawn to Tina and does everything in her power to spend time with her and GG. Maggie longs for a mother and adores Tina……the feeling mutual. Ryan is extremely protective of Maggie and doesn’t want her to become attached to Tina. Every step of the way, Ryan fights his attraction and puts up protective armour.

Both Ryan and Tina are attracted to each other immediately and fight their attraction for each other every step of the way. Their journey in finding love and each other will melt your heart. However, the entire story, it’s marvellous characters, the warmth I felt while reading this story……well let’s just say, it made me believe there “really is a Santa” and reminded me of the miracle of Christmas.

Reviewed By: Marilyn
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Fun gossipy tidbit about author: This book was inspired when the author saw a young man with his baby at a Seattle lake. The expression on his face touched Ann deeply. She saw love, pride and joy, but underneath grief and sorrow. In her imagination this man was a single father who had lost his wife. She has carried this picture in her heart and often wondered about the man and child. All I Want for Christmas was born out of that image.

To find out more about Ann you can visit her Website