enchanting reviews

AFTERTIME by Sophie Littlefield

2011-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

AFTERTIME
SOPHIE LITTLEFIELD
Dystopian / Post-Apocalyptic
Luna Books, a division of Harlequin Enterprises
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN #978-0-373-80336-1
384 Pages
$14.95
Paperback: February 15, 2011

Rating 5 Enchantments

In post-apocalyptic California, people are struggling with day to day survival. Bio-warfare decimated the landscape, killing off plants and animals, only the hardiest survived. Then came the blue-leaf fever, it didn't kill every one affected, yet those who survived became flesh-eaters, zombies, or more commonly referred to as Beaters.

Cass Dollar can't remember the last 2 months of her life, but that is not a terrible thing, the last she does remember is being taken away by a group of Beaters. The scars on her body tell a story that even she finds hard to believe. She has recovered from the disease, fortunately with no recollection of what she did or became. Now she has one focus, to find her daughter Ruthie.

With the help of the mysterious man everyone calls Smoke, Cass hopes to find Ruthie. Knowing it would be a difficult road, she never envisions the obstacles thrown in the way of their quest. Nor is she prepared for the feelings Smoke has awakened in her .

*****

When I flipped to the last page of AFTERTIME my initial reaction was: WHAT?!? THIS is the END?!? Noooooo, I wanted MORE! I wasn't ready to let Cass, Smoke and Ruthie go yet. I felt as if I was just getting to know them. Lord knows, we barely scratched the surface of Smoke. He is so mysterious, alpha, heroic, kind and SUPER hot! This was a gripping and emotional tale of survival that will keep any reader on their toes, because you just never know what is going to happen when you turn the page.

Cass had lead a pretty lousy life in the Before, one that she strongly regrets. You can feel her yearning to be a better person. Her daughter Ruthie is the reason she keeps going on, yet as the story moved on, I understood that she was starting to care for Smoke, and wanted to be a better person for him also.

Ahh, Smoke is still a delicious mystery. I'm not really sure why he was so eager to leave with Cass and why he never wavered in his faith of her. Of course I'm happy he made the decisions he did. There were a few brief explanations, but he really stuck his neck out for a complete stranger.

AFTERTIME is the first book of a new series I canNOT wait to continue. There were a few spots in the beginning of the book that seemed a bit discombobulated, but that didn't last long, and in all honesty, it worked with the story because Cass was just coming out of her illness and was trying to work things out in her confused brain.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviewer
January 2011

NIGHT BETRAYED by Joss Ware

2011-01-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

NIGHT BETRAYED

Envy Chronicles #4

JOSS WARE

Paranormal/Sci-Fi/Post Apocalyptic

Avon
Sexy
ISBN #978-0062018632
384 Pages

$7.99

Paperback/eBook: Available

Rating 4.5 Enchantments

Theo Waxnicki has lived thru the end of the world, literally. During the Change, somehow his physical chemistry was altered. While his twin brother Leo has aged naturally these last fifty years, Theo doesn't look much over 30. He also gained some super-human powers, which has helped him and his brother in their efforts to discover what really happened fifty years ago. Apparently Theo has exhausted his lifetimes, when his last injury becomes fatal. But a jolt brings him back to life.

Selena is known as the “Angel of Death” as people flock to her, believing that she can guide souls to Heaven. When her latest patient is brought to her, she expects he will soon be crossing over, but is shocked when he comes back to life.

****

Wow, I was not prepared for the emotional roller coaster Joss Ware took me on in her latest installment of the Envy Chronicles. *Please be warned that tissues should be kept nearby.* I've been waiting for Theo's story since first being introduced to him four books ago, thankfully I was not disappointed. Selena was a perfect character for him, having witnesses and lived through much of the same things he did, though she had a very different vision of things. I did find Selena a bit irritating at first, but as I got to know and understand her, her actions made sense. I was devastated by the turn of events, which became a turning point in the story. I liked how Ms. Ware convinced me to find compassion in the most horrific of things.

I loved how Ms. Ware kept the storyline moving as we learned more and more about the Strangers (or the Elite). I also liked learning more about the creation of the gangas, as it brought more of an understanding to what has been going on. I thought she really brought her characters to life. Not just her main characters, but the secondary characters were also very easy to connect with. Sam, Remy, Ian, and Wyatt all had intricate parts that kept me engaged in the story.

I'm really torn. I can't wait for Remy's story...but I can't decided if I want her more with Wyatt or if I want her to be with Ian Marck (I refuse to believe we've seen the last of him). Wyatt is a savior to her, though they seem to butt heads, but there was a connection with Ian. I've always been a sucker for a villain turned hero, but I don't think he's as bad as he's been portrayed. Sure he's no saint, but there's hero potential there, yeah I'm totally crushing on him. :o) Well, I figure Remy will be paired with Wyatt, and I know they will work. I'm also confident that she will find the perfect match for Ian.

Aemelia

Enchanting Reviewer

January 2011

SINS OF THE HEART by Eve Silver

2010-08-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

SINS OF THE HEART
EVE SILVER
Paranormal
Harlequin
Sexy
ISBN #978-0-373-77482-1
384 Pages
$7.99
Paperback: Available August 1, 2010

Rating 4.5 Enchantments

As the eldest son of Sutekh, Lord of Chaos(just one of a string of glorious titles), Dagan Krayl is the most feared soul reaper, gathering the wickedest souls for his father to consume. When his brother is brutally murdered, Dagan is determined to find and destroy those responsible.

Roxy Tam is an Asetian Guard of the Daughters of Aset, set on protecting the innocent. She finds herself drawn to Dagan as she joins him on the quest to seek answers to his brothers death, uncovering a plot destine to cause war in the Underworld.

*****

Roxy and Dagan have a bond that pulls them together, neither is sure why, though Roxy has a pretty good idea. I love the passion and determination each of them show, for each other, and for what they believe in. Dagan is a delicious being that I would love to be able to take a bite out of. The heat of desire between him and Roxy keeps the pages smoldering, that and the action-packed adventure they embark on to find the truth keeps the pages turning. Roxy is a bit more reluctant to let go of herself than Dagan, she has her secrets and fears, but Dagan is able to draw her out, whether she likes if or not.

As the first book of a new dark paranormal series Eve Silver did an excellent job creating a world inhabited by gods, demons, humans and everything in between. She masterfully blended both Earthly and Underworld characters and scenes. I was drawn into a whole new world that I cannot wait to further explore. Especially as there are answers I still need. I can't wait to see who and what is in store for Dagan's brothers or how everything will be resolved.

Eve Silver is the author of Gothic historical and gritty paranormal romance novels. She also rights speculative romance under the pseudonym Eve Kenin.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
2010

LOVE IN THE TIME OF DRAGONS by Katie MacAlister

2010-07-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

Paranormal Romance
Signet Sensuality rating: Spicy
ISBN# 978-0-451-22971-7
352 pages
$7.99
Print Paperback- Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments
Tully Sullivan is surrounded by crazy people. She wakes up after a 5 week slumber with people telling her she is a dragon. Are they crazy or what. She is a middle aged wife and mother who is a mage apprentice. She would know if she is some legendary dragon. Wouldn’t she?
Baltic is the dreaded and feared Wyvern of the black dragons. At least he used to be until he died. Now he is just dreaded and feared simply because he is dead. That and the fact that he seems to pop up and disappear as no other dragon can do and he leaves a trail of bodies behind him. Is he really alive or is he just the ghost of the once great and powerful wyvern.
LOVE IN THE TIME OF DRAGONS is the first book in the light dragons series. Although this is a new series it, like all the other dragon series, tie together so it is best to read the books from the first green dragon book, YOU SLAY ME. The hero in this book is anything but a hero. He is the ex-wyvern of the black dragons. He slayed hundreds of dragons in the wars, and is even currently responsible for dozens of deaths in present day. He had no equal and nothing could take him down. That is until the death of his beloved mate Ysolde. It was her death that caused him to get a moment of weakness and ultimately he paid in his life. That was hundreds of years ago, so how is it that he is alive and kicking now?

Tully Sullivan, mage apprentice, has mysterious dreams. In these dreams there is one who is so dark and mysterious he feels so real. But she is not scared of him. She has moments in time where she passes out, often for weeks at a time. But her memory seems to falter. Could these dreams be memories coming back to the surface? Who is this mysterious man and why does she have a connection to him when other people seem to even curse his name?

This is the book I have been waiting for! Katie MacAlister has outdone herself. Each of her books seem to be better than the rest but this one is by far my favorite. Of course when the next one in the series comes out I will probably think that one is the best too.

Baltic is a hero unlike any of our other heroes. Drake is a grumpy dragon set in his ways, Gabriel is a loving and kind dragon, and Baltic is a bad boy. He never tries to make excuses for his actions and he never apologizes for them. He has a lot to atone for and he is willing to. He steps up and takes on the role of father quite well. In fact that is a part that I did not really like. He went from complaining about Tully’s son to the next page making him call him dad. I just expected a little more resistance.

Tully, or Ysolde, is completely opposite of Baltic. She is just a big mess. I am still not sure why she passes out for weeks at a time, but I am hoping that the other books will explain that. She also went from thinking everyone was crazy, to thinking she was crazy, to all of a sudden accepting it all. She is a big mystery but I am sure each of the books in this series will help to reveal a little more about her. Brom is a character that I think has more to him than meets the eye. I am expecting a big surprise by the end of the series.

Overall this book was great. There is very little I think I would change. I am so happy that Mrs. MacAlister keeps all of her past characters involved in her current books. I am thinking that each dragon set will end up having a series. The Blue dragons will be interesting, and the red dragons are completely mysterious but the black dragons are a group that I am dying to read about. Kostya is a character that seems has yet to be fully developed. He is an active part of these books, after all he was Baltic’s second in command and best friend, and I hope his character keeps revealing more of himself. One thing Katie MacAlister does is keep you wanting more.

Katie MacAlister is the author of several paranormal, historical and contemporary series. She even has a young adult series that she writes under the name Katie Maxwell. To find out more about her and her amazing books please visit her website at http://www.katiemacalister.com/

Jennifer
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
April 2010

SINFUL by Charlotte Featherstone

2010-07-20T17:12:00.000-07:00

Historical Romance
Harlequin Spice
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN #978-0-373-60543-9
$13.95
336 pages
eBook & Trade Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Jane Rankin's only goal in life is to be respectable. Her past has shown her what happens to those without such a goal, and she refuses to put herself into that position. She's a paid companion by day, and a nurse by night. Her job as a companion has placed her on the edge of the aristocracy. She began nursing to fulfill a debt, but in it she has found respectable work that she enjoys and can envision herself to continue on into the future.

Matthew, Earl of Wallingford, is a disreputable rake. He would rather debase himself with scandal than become a respectable hypocrite. He suffers from a secret that he can never divulge. Something so shameful that he could not it bear to be known. He cannot open himself up to the vulnerability of emotion.

When Matthew is beaten and left for dead, he awakens to the touch and sound of an Angel. Jane makes him yearn for her in a way he's never felt about anybody. Jane is drawn to Matthew's forbidden touch. Can either of these lost souls learn to trust and love one another?

****

SINFUL by no means follows any standard formula for historical romance. I was enthralled by Jane and Matthew's actions and emotions in reaction to their painful life experiences. While the last ¼ of the book ticked me off, I could still appreciate the unconventional Happily Ever After. I really liked this story, I just didn't care for how some of the predicaments where handled.

I hated the situations Jane and Matthew were forced into, as their choices were abysmal, but that is also what made this book so good, as it forced the characters to move on into directions that I wouldn't have foreseen. I'll be honest, part of my reason for reading romance is that awful situations can be easily solved by the authors stroke of a pen. I commend Ms. Featherstone for NOT doing that. In her writing she brought forth so many emotions. The sizzling heat of passion between Jane and Matthew kept the pages fairly smoldering, and I could feel the pain and hate that Matthew and Jane faced.

This was my first experience with Charlotte Featherstone, but it will not be the last, as she has shown me that she can write a HOT romance with some very enticing characters and interesting plot twists, that I don't see coming.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
July 2010

DOPPELGANGSTER (an Esther Diamond Novel) by Laura Resnick

2010-07-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

DOPPELGANGSTER (An Esther Diamond Novel)

LAURA RESNICK
Urban Fantasy
Fantasy DAW
ISBN# 978-0-7564-0595-3
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
400 Pages
$7.99
Paperback—Available Now
Rating: 5 Enchantments

When out-of-work actress Esther Diamond turns part-time waitress at Stella’s, a restaurant favored by some of NYC’s most powerful mob families, she couldn’t expect that it would be any more dangerous than usual. Besides, she’s dating Lopez, a cop, and that should be enough to keep some of the touchy-feely types at bay. Yet Lopez’s warning to be careful comes true when Esther witnesses the hit on Chubby Charlie at her table up close and personal. Suddenly, she’s on the cover of every tabloid in the city. Lopez wants her to quit her job and Lucky, the aging hitman wants her help in solving the case before the cops.

Within a few pages, DOPPELGANGSTER quickly became one of my favorite Urban Fantasy reads! Filled with unique and fun characters from Esther to Lucky, the aging hitman, to the mysterious 350 year old mage, Max and his new familiar Nelli, it was easy to slip into the world Ms. Resnick created.

The mystery of whose behind the mysterious death of Chubby Charlie gets deeper when Johnny Be Good is found dead, followed shortly later by another. Suddenly not only Esther’s in danger, but so is Lucky, Max and Lopez, who’d still rather keep Esther out of his investigation. There was so much going on, with twists and turns over who was behind the deaths, who was targeted next and how were Esther and company going to figure things out before it was too late that I had to read the book in one sitting, it was just that good.

It’s hard to pick a favorite scene to highlight for the review, but one that sticks out in my mind is when Lucky organizes a sit-down between the two families shortly after Johnny Be Good is found dead and Max and Esther have to come to the meeting, dressed to fit in. It's hilarious and gives the reader more questions than answers on who could be next and whether or not the real killer is in that room with them.

Fans of Urban Fantasy looking for a fresh read should definitely pick up DOPPELGANGSTER. With its humor and mystery, it has earned a spot on my keeper shelf. Look for the next Esther Diamond novel, UNSYMPATHETIC MAGIC on sale August 3, 2010.

Visit Ms. Resnick online at www.lauraresnick.com to learn out more about this series, including excerpts, and info on the reissuing of the first book in the series.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
June 2010

SOUL DANCER by Aurora Rose Lynn

2010-07-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

Science Fiction Romance
Resplendence Publishing, LLC
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN# 978-1-60735-140-5
Pages 49
$3.50
E-book April 2010

Rating: 5 enchantments
Jamar, the second born male of an affluent Jaquill family on the planet Manitee-a, is involved in actions that might negatively affect his relationship with his parents, older brother Bara, and most importantly the laws of his society: bedding with a kattanee slave.

Kierra, Jamar's object of obsession fears reprisal from all parties, especially from the law. The penalty is death if anyone was ever to discover her affair with her master, Jamar.

Their society has put a wedge between them and has clearly established the nature of their relationship. Katanees are the white slaves of the Jaquill, the dominant black class of the planet.

Prior to reading this novel, I had a preconceived notion of sci-fi romance weird and difficult to pronounce names and places. However, I breezed through this story without stumbling. The romance between the Kierra and Jamar was touching, while the sex scenes were awesome to the point were you could actually feel their pain and anguish as the story evolved. I am definitely looking forward to reading another story by Ms Lynn.

Victoria
Enchanting Reviews
June 2010

CRAZY FOR LOVE by Victoira Dahl

2010-06-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

CRAZY FOR LOVE

VICTORIA DAHL
Contemporary Romance
Harlequin
Sexy
ISBN #9780373774623
384 Pages
$7.99
Paperback Available July 2010

Rating 5 Enchantments

After her finance fakes his death to avoid marrying her, Chloe Turner is branded the worlds most heinous Bridezilla. For a bit of relief from the paparazzi, Chloe and her best friend Jenn escape to a quiet island get away.

World renowned treasure hunter Max Sullivan seeks to stay out of the limelight. Hoping for a peaceful vacation on a tranquil island, he agrees to go with his brother, Elliot, to help him learn how to sail.

When the two friends catch a glimpse of their hot island neighbors, they decide that an island fling is just what Chloe needs to regroup and relax. Max thinks that Chloe is an uncomplicated sweet girl, just right for an island affair. But can Max handle the media frenzy when Chloe's identity is discovered?

****

This book CRUSHES everything I have read so far this year, actually, it's the best book I've read in a very long time. I could NOT put it down once I started, I stayed up until 2am finishing CRAZY FOR LOVE. Victoria Dahl did a phenomenal job, creating intelligent, entertaining, passionate characters that I absolutely fell in love with. I laughed, I cried and I ended the book with a sigh of happiness.

Chloe was handed such a crappy hand by her ex-fiance and the media, but she was determined to ride it out. I loved the strength she showed to overcome her problems. Though her little break down, while not much for helping her cause, was funny, and a well-deserved stress reliever, it also made her very realistic...who wouldn't want to throw Chinese food at the paparazzi?!

Max was a manipulative control-freak, I know that sounds bad, but he did it because he had a major phobia of people getting hurt or ruining their lives, when he could have done something to prevent it, because of that, it was an endearing characteristic. Chloe saw right through him and wasn't afraid to call him out on it. I loved their sexy banter, their red hot passion and the emotional journey they took us on, as they both had things to resolve before their Happily Ever After. But, Max really ticked me off when he finally decided to stop being the savior of all, as he had terrible timing.

I liked Max's brother, Elliot, he was so sweet and deserved to find happiness. But I did not like Chloe's friend Jenn, I just couldn't agree with her actions. But then again, I happen to be a very blunt and upfront person, and in my opinion, secrets from you friends do nothing but hurt them, if you can't tell your best friend ANYthing, then you aren't being a good friend.

I can't wait until CRAZY FOR LOVE comes out in print, so that I can buy a copy for my keeper shelf and a couple copies for my friends, it was so good that I can't wait to share it! Also, I can't wait until August, when A LITTLE BIT WILD, Victoria Dahl's new historical series will be released.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviewer
April 2010

I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT by Adam Selzer

2010-03-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT

ADAM SELZER

Paranormal YA

Delacorte Press

ISBN# 978-0385735032

192 pages

$7.99

Trade—Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

What a fun read! Eighteen year old Algonquin "Alley" Rhodes is determined to get out of small town Cornersville Trace and head to Seattle, where there has be a bigger dating pool. Unlike some of the other girls at school, she isn't aspiring to date an 'undead': a/k/a a vampire, werewolf, or zombie. But one night, covering the local band scene she meets Doug, a guy who sings Cole Porter songs and makes her feel like swooning, something she's never felt before.

Readers looking for a fun, laugh out loud paranormal read should definitely pick up I KISSED A ZOMBIE AND I LIKED IT. This book truly has it all. From plot to interesting characters, including the high school guidance counselor who doesn't believe in mixed relationships between the living and the undead, to amazing wit and a moment the reader can't wait for: Alley to realize the truth about Doug. But along the way Alley realizes the truth about herself, that she doesn't exactly like being the snarky sarcastic 'ice queen' she is at school and prefers who she is when she's with Doug. The humorous moments are plenty, thanks especially to Alley's voice and the situations Mr. Selzer puts the characters in.

One of my favorite scenes is when Alley and Doug go on their first date. There's something a little odd about Doug, but Alley can't quite put her finger on what it is. But if there was a perfect guy in the world for her, Doug could seriously fit his description.

To learn more about Mr. Selzer and his books, visit him online at http://www.adamselzer.com/

Lisa

Enchanting Reviews

February 2010

DREAM LIFE by Lauren Mechling

2010-03-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

DREAM LIFE (Dream Girl #2)
LAUREN MECHLING
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0385735230
336 Pages
$16.99
Hardcover—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

When her best friend Becca starts acting funny after returning home from holidays, Claire feels abandoned, until she finds out Becca's been tapped for a secret society, and surprisingly she gets 'invited' to join herself. But if only things were that easy. It seems there's a rival society out to get the Blue Moons and take over New York for themselves. Soon Claire finds herself in the thick of things, trying to solve the mystery before their top secret plans are disclosed and the group is relegated to nothing more than a name forever.

DREAM LIFE is my favorite book in the Dream Girl series so far. The characters seemed much more formed this time and I found myself liking Claire a lot more. DREAM LIFE stands well on its own, so if you haven't read the first novel 'Dream Girl' don't worry about it. The world created is at times a bit eccentric but nonetheless fun to visit.

My favorite scenes happened when Claire was tapped to become a member of the Blue Moons. From the scene where they 'grabbed' her to where the hangout was actually located were really fun. Also, the friendship between Claire and her unusual society grandmother, Kiki, continues, climaxing at her grandmother's birthday party, a scene which turns out to be so horrific for Claire, I could only hope she'd get out of there as fast as she could.

Overall DREAM LIFE is a really fun and unusual read. I can't wait to return to Claire's world and see what happens next.

Lauren Mechling is the coauthor of all three 10th-Grade Social Climber books. She has written for the New York Times, Marie Claire, and Seventeen. She lives and writes in New York City. You can visit her at www.laurenmechling.com.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
February 2010

DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE by Pat Mora

2010-03-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE
PAT MORA
YA Poetry
Knopf
ISBN# 978-0375843754
176 Pages
$15.99
Hardcover—Available
Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is filled with a collection of fifty poems of different types, from a simple poem, to '3 a.m. Blues' which is the blues to the last in the book 'My Song' which is written as a song.

I have to admit, I'm not usually big on poetry but I really enjoyed DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE. Every poem is different, told from a different narrator's point of view. The one thing they all have in common though is the theme—love. With some of the poems Ms. Mora provides a description of the type of poem on the opposite page, so those interested can learn more about that particular style. Two of my favorite poems are 3 a.m. Blues because I like the lyrical styling and an earlier one in the book, To-Do List because it's very much true to life.

DIZZY IN YOUR EYES: POEMS ABOUT LOVE is Pat's second collection for young adults. Pat also wrote My Own True Name: New and Selected Poems for Young Adults and six poetry collections for adults. To learn more about Pat and her books visit her online at www.patmora.com.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010

TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME (Immortality Bites series) by Michelle Rowen

2010-03-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME (Immortality Bites series)

MICHELLE ROWEN
Paranormal Romance
Grand Central Publishing - Forever
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0446505857
352 pages
$6.99
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Sarah Dearly finds herself in a bit of a complicated mess. Still cursed from a malevolent witch, there's a nightwalker inside her just dying to get out. The only thing that can control her is the thin gold chain around her neck. There's also the fact Gideon is blackmailing her to make him an immortal, in hopes that it will heal him and finally get rid of the hellfire burning within him. If that weren't bad enough, as part of the blackmail, she's had to break up with the love of her life, master vampire Thierry.

I've loved this series from the first book and am sad to see it end, as I loved Sarah and Thierry, two of my favorite vampires. Who can forget Barry, her best friend's husband and Thierry's butler, and all the other memorable characters throughout the series.

The best part about TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME is all the best characters return for the end, including surprisingly Quinn, who is always nice to see as I enjoyed his relationship with Sarah. While darker then some of the other books in the series, TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME has the same humor that made me a fan early on and I loved the chemistry between Sarah and Thierry, even while they had to hide their relationship because of Gideon's threats to Sarah's friends and family.

Between hiding her on-going relationship with Thierry from her closest friends and trying not to find herself attracted to Gideon, she also has to deal with the mysterious Red Devil who seems to have appointed himself her bodyguard. Which wouldn't be too bad, until she finds out he's telling Thierry everything he sees. Can't a girl even have a few little secrets? I liked the addition of the Red Devil, even if I had kind of figured out what Sarah did about him a little before she did.

The tension between Gideon and Sarah and whether or not he was fully bad or still partly good was a good subplot. My favorite scene had to be when Sarah goes out to meet 'the wizard', who can supposedly wipe out the nightwalker. Imagine her surprise when he turns out to be a Goth teenager—a surprise that turns jaw dropping when he offers her a chance at reversing her entire vampness. Her friend thinks she should leap at the chance, even if it wipes out the last few months of her life, but that means giving up her relationship with Thierry, something she can't bring herself to think about. I liked how the teenager showed up again in a frightening scene at Sarah's place and warned her about the impending danger.

Filled with unexpected twists, turns and appearances, TALL, DARK AND FANGSOME has become one of my favorites in the Immortality Bites series.

Michelle Rowen is a full-time writer and self-confessed bibliophile living in Ontario, Canada. Her first young adult fantasy novel will be published in Fall 2009 from Walker Books for Young Readers. Under the pseudonym Michelle Maddox she has also written futuristic romantic suspense for Dorchester.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009

THE STRANGELY BEAUTIFUL TALE OF MISS PERCY PARKER, Book #1 by Leanna Renee Hieber

2010-03-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

THE STRANGELY BEAUTIFUL TALE OF MISS PERCY PARKER, Book #1

LEANNA RENEE HIEBER
Gothic Victorian Fantasy Romance
Dorchester Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN #978-0-8439-6296-3
320 Pages
$6.99
Paperback: Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Enchanting and shy, Percy Parker plans to try and blend in as much as possible as a student in Victorian London's Athens Academy. Well, to blend in as much an albino that can see and talk to ghosts possibly can.

Professor Alexi Rychman is focused on his studies at the Academy, deciphering the prophecy that he has been anticipating since childhood, and fighting the demons that threaten to consume the earth. He doesn't know quite what to think of Percy, while he pities her for her odd appearance, he is captivated by her personality and her unusual gift.

A sadistic killer know as The Ripper is terrorizing the streets of London. Is he naught but a madman or is he a demon? Is Percy entering Alexi's life just a coincidence or does she somehow fit into the prophecy? Can their feelings expand beyond teacher/student?

I absolutely loved this book. It was nothing like I expected, though in all honesty, when I first opened THE STRANGELY BEAUTIFUL TALE OF MISS PERCY PARKER, I really didn't know what to expect. The depth of emotion and the complexity of the characters drew me in completely. I can't remember the last time I read a tear-jerker, but I definitely will have a few tissues handy when I pick this up to reread, and reread it I will. This book has definitely earned a spot on my Keeper Shelf. There is also an element of humor that balances the book out, keeping it from being depressing.

Percy is someone that is easy to feel sympathy for, she's had a difficult time, being so different from everyone else, and I'm not talking about the fact that she can see and talk to dead people. Her experiences have given her an inner-strength that is easy to admire, but it has also given her a complex of inferiority, which is fascinating watching her emerge from. Alexi, while being a strong, yummy, Alpha-male did exhibit a few moments of idiocy, where I wanted to slap him, but I could understand his reluctance to be with Percy, mostly the whole student/teacher relationship taboo, if he'd not fought to cross that line, I wouldn't have been able to respect him quite so much.

I can't wait until April 27, 2010, when Book #2 THE DARKLY LUMINOUS FIGHT FOR PERSEPHONE PARKER is release, as I will be right there to scoop it up and devour it!

Leanna Renee Hieber is a bestselling author, actress and playwright. Originally from rural Ohio, she is now a resident of New York City. She is also the co-founder of Lady Jane's Salon a Romance Reading series held at Madam X's in Manhattan, where on the first Monday of every month, authors read from their latest writings. All proceeds from Lady Jane's go to Share the Love a non-profit organization focused on helping women transition into independent lives, to find out more you can visit: http://www.leannareneehieber.com, http://www.share-the-love.org and http://www.ladyjanesalon.com.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviewer
January 2010

SO STILL THE NIGHT by Kim Lenox

2010-02-25T18:16:00.000-08:00

SO STILL THE NIGHT (A Novel of the Shadow Guard)

KIM LENOX

Paranormal Romance

Signet Eclipse

Sensuality Level: Sexy

ISBN# 978-0451226785

304 Pages

$6.99

Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Marcus Helios is not only an immortal, a former member of the elite Shadow Guard and the son of Antony and Cleopatra, but he also in the depths of Transcension, bringing him to the depths of madness. His only hope of salvation lies in two ancient scrolls he believes are in the possession of the beautiful Willowmina, and he'll do whatever it takes to get his hands on them. But with the mysterious Dark Bride hunting him in London and having to deal with his twin sister Seline, who's desperate to become his official assassin, things are complicated enough without falling for the beautiful Mina.

With her father faking his own death, sending her back to London to report the grim news, then to go into deep mourning for her own safety, Mina suddenly finds herself on her own. When strange things begin to happen, such as being the victim of an apparent random attack in the street and having her father's papers shredded in her room, she becomes uncomfortable and slightly scared for her own safety Surprisingly, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to Mark, Lord Alexander. When he unexpectedly asks for her hand in marriage, she's thrilled when her uncle agrees to the betrothal. Now she can get out of the house and hopefully start over, completely unaware of her new husband's immortality.

I adored SO STILL THE NIGHT. While not your typical historical romance, Mina and Mark are two strong individuals, both fighting their own battles: Mark's for his sanity and Mina for trying to overcome the loss of her father. The chemistry between the two is some of the strongest I've read and the scenes between them are sizzling hot. I loved how Mark wore down Mina's resistance to him, especially the scene with the hot air balloon at the club. My favorite scene though is after the two are married and Mina learns his secret. While on the search for her father, they visit an old family friend of Mina's, a rather eccentric character who owns a warehouse full of unusual items. It's a fun and a nice respite from the darker tone of a lot of the book, it's one that made me laugh and stayed with me through the rest of the book.

I have to say SO STILL THE NIGHT is a wonderful read that quickly earned a spot on my keeper shelf. Mark is a delicious hero, filled with a dark intensity and a purpose that I haven't read in awhile and quickly fell for. Mina's strong enough on her own, but watching her fall for Mark and accept who he truly is makes this a great read. The only drawback to the story is the ending chapters are rather fast paced, and rush by quicker than the rest of the story.

With a fast paced ending with a few surprising twists and revelations, SO STILL THE NIGHT leaves the reader breathless, going back through the story for clues they may have missed as to the Dark Bride and her cohorts identities. I can't wait to read the next in this series, Darker Than Night, due out in April 2010.

To learn more about this book and the Shadow Guard series, visit Ms. Lenox online at her website: http://www.kimlenox.com/.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010

BATTLE OF THE NETWORK ZOMBIES by Mark Henry

2010-02-25T17:42:00.000-08:00

BATTLE OF THE NETWORK ZOMBIES (Amanda Feral Book #3)
MARK HENRY
Urban Fantasy
Kensington
Sensuality Level: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0758225269
288 Pages
$15.00
Trade—Available

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Celeb zombie Amanda Feral seems to be having a stream of bad luck. Between her car getting repossessed in the parking lot of her mother's strip club; her relationship with Scott breaking up (all his idea) and Elizabeth Karkaroff wanting to get out of the business, which means Amanda would owe her a staggering sum of money she doesn't have, not to mention she owes the reaper her first born, if she'd have one. But there might be a way out of all of this mess. Amanda can't stand Johnny Birch, the weird little wood nymph, but if being a judge on his new reality show will save her, what's wrong with that? Until she discovers Johnny's charred body on the floor of his room and suddenly the show's no more. With some quick thinking on her part, Amanda turns the show into a whodunnit and she's the lead detective, which would be great if she'd ever been a detective before.

What do I like best about the latest in Mark Henry's 'Amanda Feral' series? Hard to say, between the gruesome and sometimes macabre scenes and characters, not to mention all the dark humor, with every scene sometimes so gruesomely detailed, it's hard to pick just one. But perhaps it's Amanda herself, with her sarcastic barbs and outlook on life, especially dark in this particular tale. And who can forget the footnotes, where Amanda talks straight to the reader?

BATTLE OF THE NETWORK ZOMBIES brings the reader back into Amanda's life and she's just as delightful as ever, as are her two good friends Wendy and Gil. Hands down, one of my favorite scenes in the book is when Amanda first arrives at the mansion where the reality show is set to be filmed. Thanks to Johnny's woodland nymph nature, the place is literally alive with vegetation. Amanda meets the unusual Mama Montserrat, who takes an instant liking to her, and an instant dislike to Wendy, who's tagged along on the trip, posing as Amanda's agent.

The fun really begins when the contestants are introduced, a handful of wanna-be bodyguards you'd never imagine. I especially enjoyed some of the new characters Mr. Henry brings to the mix in this one, from Mama Montserrat, the producer of the ill-fated Johnny Birch reality show and possible suspect in Johnny's demise to Hairy Sue, the unusual stripper from Amanda's mother's club and a surprising contestant on the reality show. Who would have figured her for the role of bodyguard? Filled with some memorable characters, including my new favorite Tanesha, and a heck of an unusual mystery, readers looking for something a little dark and twisted won't go wrong picking up BATTLE OF THE NETWORK ZOMBIES.

Mark is the co-founder of both The South Sound Algonquin writer’s group in Washington and the highly regarded (and/or degraded) League of Reluctant Adults, an online cabal of disturbed urban fantasy and paranormal romance writers. He’s a member of the Pacific Northwest Writer’s Association and the Fangs, Fur and Fey online writer’s community. Visit him online at http://www.markhenry.us.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010

NIKOLAI'S WOLF by Zera Wynn

2010-01-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

NIKOLAI'S WOLF
ZERA WYNN
Shifter/paranormal romance
Loose Id
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN# 978-1-59632-894-5
133 Pages
$6.99
EBook–Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

A blue moon's coming, and for shape-shifter Shannon McFelan, it's bringing nothing but trouble. Something she's got enough of already. Her body has mysteriously turned on her, going into Heat at the worst possible time. It will take all the cunning in her possession to survive this lunar cycle without finding herself mated.

Vampire Nikolai Taranosky has waited centuries for his Chosen. He doesn't care that Shannon's a werewolf, and he knows exactly what's wrong with her. It's because of him that she's in Heat. By the waning of the blue moon she'll definitely be mated ... to him!

What can I say that could possibly do the justice to this book it deserves? Well written, no mistakes. It gives you chills as well as passion. I was glued to the book from the time I started reading until I finished it in two days. The alpha female, Shannon, is strong. She’s got so much heart you can feel her essence even after you put the book down. Nikolai is strong, sexy, and dominate. He’s a vampire with wolf blood and determined to make headstrong Shannon not only his mate, but make her fall in love with him too. I loved the interplay between all of the characters. Shannon and her stubborn brother, Rory face off in challenge after challenge.

I have loved a lot of female characters. Shannon is my favorite. Her headstrong ways remind me so much of myself. Nikolai represents the kind of man every woman dreams of. The story itself left me wishing and at times holding my breath. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. Shannon’s ways kept me laughing all through this wonderful book. This is a sequel to 'True Mates' also by Ms. Wynn. The ending leaves you breathless and also leaves room for her third book in the series.

Ms. Wynn is the mother of three (four, if you count Lady, her family dog) and grandmother of two, when not busy with family or church, she can most likely be found in front of the computer writing or escaping into a book. She loves to read. She loves books that can take her out of her ordinary life into an extraordinary reality. She doesn’t just read. She becomes. To her, a really well written book is like a mini-vacation, without all of the hassle. Her greatest hope is that after reading one of her stories, you'll feel the same.

Angel
Enchanting Reviews
June 2009

POWER PLAY by Deirdre Martin

2010-01-15T14:48:00.000-08:00

POWER PLAY
DEIRDRE MARTIN
Romance
Berkley Sensation (Penquin)
Sensuality Rating: Sensuous
ISBN# 978-0-425-22451-9
$7.99
Available October 2008

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Monica Geary is a leading lady in a soap opera. Her status as leading lady is being threatened by the "new face on the block". Monica is desperate to please her peers with "pure" acting, yet doesn't want to lose her daytime status on top.

Eric Mitchell is a a playboy hockey star who is secretly a soap opera watcher. He is desperately trying to be accepted as the newest member of the New York Blades.

Monica and Eric's publicity managers devise a scheme to get them back on top through a public, fake romance. In private, though, they can't stand each other. Or can they? Both learn about the person behind the public image during their 'fake' dating. The media eats up the handsome couple; they are seen together all over the place. The news coverage pumps both their careers, so how can they break it off? Are they staying together just to boost their careers or will they actually fall in love?

POWER PLAY is well written and fun. The whole dating in the spotlight makes this fun. People always wonder what it would be like to be famous and POWER PLAY lets you step into the lives of two famous people for a time. Ms. Martin also brings in the softer side of two tough people in the spotlight and their insecurities. It is endearing to know that people who seem to have it all, have things they worry about and that they are insecure about. The sex scenes are few, but very steamy. There are several sub-plots that make POWER PLAY very interesting and hard to put down. I would definitely read this author again.

Ms. Martin is a New York Times bestselling author. Her website is www.deirdremartin.com which includes excerpts and upcoming books.

Sandy Maffeo
Enchanting Reviews
March 2009

RED FIRE by Deidre Knight

2010-01-15T14:46:00.000-08:00

RED FIRE
DEIDRE KNIGHT
Paranormal Romance
Signet
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0-451-22538-2
400 pages
$6.99
Print - Available now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Ajax Petrakos and his Spartan brothers made a deal with Ares to become immortal to protect the human race from the evil that threatens us. After centuries, Ajax is ready for peace in his life and to find that he must find his true love.

Shay Angel is part of a demon hunting family. Being the youngest and a female, her brothers are overly protective of her. She can see the demons roaming the streets but she can’t help but wonder if there is something more to her special gift.

To Ajax, eternity has become a prison. What gets him through the long years is his destiny of finding his one true mate. When the Oracle sends him to Savannah, Georgia, he finally finds Shay but he isn’t the first. Ajax’s worst enemy Sable has come back and knows Shay’s true gift and destiny. Because of a past conflict, Sable will do anything to ruin Ajax even if it means taking Shay. Ajax is on a time limit to keep Shay protected and also find the clues to an ancient prophecy detailing what Shay’s and his true destiny will be.

This was a great concept to the Spartan soldiers. I did get a bit lost in a few places around the beginning, but the description was good so it didn’t take long to get back on track. You can’t go wrong with this fast paced, action packed book. I would read it again and I recommend it to all my friends. This is the first in the Gods of Midnight series (Yay! There will be more.).

Along with being a novelist, Ms. Knight is a mom and a literary agent. You can check out her website at http://www.deidreknight.com/ you can also send her emails at deidre@deidreknight.com.

Kim Graham
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2009

THE SARRAN PLAGUE by A.C. Katt

2010-01-15T14:44:00.000-08:00

THE SARRAN PLAGUE
A.C. KATT
Science Fiction/Erotic/Ménage
Eternal Press
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
E-Book ISBN: 978-1-926647- 67-8
Print ISBN: 978-1-926647- 75-3
68,000 words
Ebook: $6.95/Print $9.95
Available - April 2009

Rating: 4 Enchantments

It began with the July 4th celebration. Everyone thought the green mist that fell was a wonderful ending to their holiday fireworks displays, then word spread that the oily mist had fallen everywhere. Within days, females began getting ill, but only those of reproducing age. It ignored prepubescents, post-menopausal or any who did not ovulate. Then they started to die. No case zero, no treatment, it was everywhere and hospitals became holding grounds. Then the Sarrans – a more advanced race, arrived, holding a cure and with a proposition that would rock earth’s world, especially for a select few of its females.
This story is about Anya.

Whether you’re a science fiction buff or a fan of romance you’re going to thoroughly enjoy reading Sarran Plague. A.C. Katt completely draws you into the lives of her characters through her vivid descriptions. Tonal and Jonal came alive for me in so many different aspects in this book. She was able to flesh them out not only as lovers and Triad mates of Anya’s for the romance aspect of the book, but also as Admirals and military men deeply caring and committed to their ship, their cause and their planet. I know sometimes the blending of two genres is difficult but she pulled it off admirably.

Another thing I truly loved about the book (and if you don’t like spoilers stop reading now!!) is that when she reached the point of the Sarran’s having to address the issue of homophobia on Earth she did not shy away from it, dance around it or beat it to death. She handled it tastefully and as much as was needed for the book and that was that. No political showboating here. Well done.

She has left us with several taunting leads for other possible stories (yes I did notice that, don’t think I didn’t) and I am already looking forward to two future books at the very least that she absolutely MUST write. (That being one of Cynthia Synclair and one of Madeline Dixon-Howard, she who is destined to know the Zyptz) I will be waiting and watching for more books from this talented author.

A.C. Katt has been on a hiatus in writing since high school, only recently having begun writing again. You can learn more about this writer at http://www.ackatt.com/. To learn more about the Sarran’s you can visit http://thesarrans.blogspot.com/ and http://ackatt.blogspot.com/.

Lissa
Enchanting Reviews
January 2010

OFF THE MENU by Christine Son

2010-01-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

OFF THE MENU
CHRISTINE SON
Women's Fiction
New American Library
Sensuality Rating: Sensuous
ISBN# 978-0-451-22417-0
350 Pages
$14.00 Trade Paperback
Available August 2008

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Whitney Lee is working 24/7 in a law firm. Her immigrant parents are very proud of their workaholic daughter. Secretly, Whitney wants to ditch the law firm and sing. She is very talented musically, but her parents would never accept this choice of career from her.

Hercules Huang owns several of the best restaurants in town and is very successful. She has a strained relationship with her father. She also has a secret wish which is to fall in love, but is too busy.

Audrey Henley is in love and has a great relationship with her fiancé, attending graduate school and working towards being a professor. Her parents aren't too thrilled about her fiancé and thinks he is using her to get to their money.

All three girls are part of the Valedictorians. This story is of their relationships with each other, with their parents and with their significant others. The book also tells of living in America as Asian women. Their lives intertwine until their dreams come to fruition.

OFF THE MENU moves quickly and is well written; it speaks well of living in America as Asian women, with its problems and advantages. It is a great story of living as a people-pleaser while trying to achieve one's own dream, which oftentimes clash. The ending is happy if a little predictable. All in all, I really enjoyed the read. Since I am a people pleaser, it taught me to follow my dreams once in a while.

Even though these girls are best friends, they all keep secrets from each other. In the end, the secrets come out and each one has a surprising reaction to the others. They end up being a huge support system for each other. If only they would have opened up to each other sooner. Ms. Son captured what happens in relationships so eloquently.

Ms. Son is a Korean-American living in Texas. She was inspired by her own family experiences as well as those of her Korean friends to write an authentic novel. Ms. Son can be reached at www.christineson.com.

Sandy Maffeo
Enchanting Reviews
February 2009

THE ROGUE AND THE RIVAL by Maya Rodale

2010-01-15T14:40:00.000-08:00

THE ROGUE AND THE RIVAL
MAYA RODALE
Historical Romance
Berkley Sensation
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0-425-22452-6
328 Pages
$7.99
Paperback—Available now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Angela Palmerston is in Stanbrook Abbey, banished to take a vow of poverty, obedience and chastity after her parents disowned her. Six long years have passed since Angela set eyes on a man because the man she loved ruined her for any other. When the abbey takes in a strange man, unfulfilled desire and passion are aroused like a burning fire out of control.

Lord Phillip is a handsome rogue that has ruined many women in his short lifetime. He has a twin brother that took his fortune because he was the good son. Lord Phillip is hell-bent on proving his father right by being the bad son. He gambles away his fortune and almost pays with his life and ends up in Stanbrook Abbey.

Angela and Phillip are thrown together and are quite the opposites. Angela can’t quite control her unrequited passions and falls for the rogue Phillip hoping not to get her heart broken. But Phillip ends up leaving her, due to uncontrollable circumstances, and breaking her heart. Will he ever be able to convince her of the truth and what are the consequences he pays to do that?

THE ROGUE AND THE RIVAL is full of rich characters and sub-plots that make this a real page turner. Maya Rodale takes you back in time where the rules are not the same as they are today and turns Angela into a Women’s Activist for all time. You immediately root for Angela and Phillip to get together, which seems impossible, given their background and status in life. The sex scenes are passionate and you can feel the forbidden desire that makes them so much more exciting. I highly recommend this twisting, turning story that makes you keep turning pages to see if Phillip and Angela will ever get together after resolving all their issues.

Ms. Rodale lives in New York City and is the daughter of the Rodale family of Rodale publishing fame. http://www.mayarodale.com/.

Sandy Maffeo
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
April 2009

SINK OR SWIM by Alexis Fleming

2010-01-15T14:28:00.000-08:00

SINK OR SWIM
ALEXIS FLEMING
Fantasy Romance
Total E Bound
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN# 978-1-906328-01-6
58 pages
$4.36
eBook/Print – Available now

Rating: 3.5 Enchantments

Jonah Billings is a surfer with a secret. Jonah is a selkie, a seal by night, and a lifesaver by day. He is in love with Samie, but has yet to tell her about his secret. Jonah is a dark haired handsome hunk of a man, determined to mate for life with woman of his dreams.

Samie McIntyre is a gorgeous twenty-four year old woman who is preparing, by sitting in the full bathtub daily, to become a mermaid. Her mother became one, and she told Samie her turn would come when she turned twenty-five. Unfortunately, her birthday is going to be in just a few weeks. Will she be ready? She only has one fear to conquer, but it is huge. Samie is afraid of water. What good is a mermaid if she is afraid of water?

This was a cute story about a young woman who is soon to become a mermaid but she is afraid of water. She is in love with Jonah and Jonah is in love with her. But how can she show him before she turns into a mermaid and must live in the sea? This is a fun story is about two people in love, the secrets that keep them apart, and how they come together.

This erotic romance has interesting twists adding the selkie and mermaid influences. I enjoyed the overall story, but I felt the language was a bit rough and took away from the romance has a whole. It may be all right for someone younger but way to harsh for this chickie. For me, the language was a turn off. I was thrilled when Jonah and Samie came together in the end

When she’s not tied to her computer creating sizzling stories to tempt her readers, she helps run a busy motel set on the edge of a National Marine Park in Australia. What better place to get inspiration for the tales she turns out? Ms. Fleming loves to hear from readers. You can find her contact information, website and author biography at http://www.totalebound.com.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
December 2008

GHOSTLAND by Jory Strong

2010-01-15T13:42:00.000-08:00

GHOSTLAND
JORY STRONG
Urban Fantasy Romance
Berkley Sensation
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
352 pages
ISBN# 978-0-425-22606-3
$15.00
Trade paperback – Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

In a post-apocalyptic world Aisling McConaughey is ripped away from her simple life to use her gift as a powerful shamaness guide into the Ghostlands. When she unwittingly calls upon Djinn prince Zureal en Caym to help her discover the whereabouts of a high-powered politician's mistress, Aisling's not prepared for the price he will demand.

Zureal has never before been called upon, but the experience of being torn away from his world and thrust into the power of another is not one he will tolerate without retribution. He will make the child of mud pay for taking control out of his hands.

When Aisling and Zureal learn someone is trying to enslave a demon through the drug “Ghost”, them must work together to discover who is behind the evil that threatens both of their worlds.

GHOSTLAND is a powerful story of the struggle between right, wrong, revenge, passion, and forgiveness. Jory Strong wrote a complex, emotionally charged tale, successfully creating a world and characters that captivated me. Aisling first appears as a fragile woman who has never really had much in her life, but she quickly shows deep strength and while her confidence waivers, she always does what she MUST do, even when she is scared. Zureal was pissed. He did not like losing control, and he was determined to make Aisling pay. What he wasn't prepared for was the scorching heat of desire that he felt when he tracked her. I could feel the sizzle of passion as I turned the smoldering pages. Not only was their passion hot, but the action was riveting as they struggled to locate the fiend responsible for “Ghost” and in the process came to realize the feelings they held for each other.

When I finished reading GHOSTLAND, I so looked forward to revisiting the post-apocalyptic world Ms. Strong had created that ran out to buy SPIDER-TOUCHED, book 2 in the Ghostland series, which I also loved...now I just have to wait patiently until September 2010 for the next installment, HEALER'S CHOICE.

When author Ms. Strong is not writing, you might find her reading or working with her horses on her ranch out in the boondocks.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009

AETHEREAL’S CHILDREN by Christopher W.Wilcox Sr

2010-01-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

AETHEREAL’S CHILDREN
CHRISTOPHER W WILCOX SR
Fantasy
Whiskey Creek Press
Senauality: N/A
ISBN# 978-1-59374-727-5
Pages 328
Price $5.99
Ebook- Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Many of the Æthereal warriors surveying new planets disappear and the huge dragons turn to their human partners to help them solve the mystery. For twenty years there has been no sign of the Gray and the guardian leaders wonder if the Æthereal disappearances indicate the return of their eternal enemy. The children of the original human partners are now adults and they are charged with investigating the disappearances. They discover a new Gray species, but meanwhile rebellion from within threatens the Guardian alliance. Æthereal and humans are forced to face the truth about the past, present, and to question whether there is any future for the Guardians.

Ms. Wilcox has hit the jackpot with his Æthereal series and the latest one is as enthralling as the previous four books. If you like dragons, fantasy and high tech, this series is a must. ÆTHEREAL'S CHILDREN answers some of the questions of the future of the human race and their association with the dragons.

Mr. Wilcox presently works in the IT industry for a Fortune 500 company. He has a library of over 1,000 books of almost every genre. While he enjoys a wide range of fiction, Mr. Wilcox says he has always had a special affinity for Science Fiction and Fantasy novels. The Æthereal series is a blend of Sci-Fi and Fantasy. Hopefully we will see more of the Æthereal books and Mr. Wilcox’s new series The Alurian Chronicles. Read more at http://christopherwilcox.wcpauthor.com/.

Suzie
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
July 2008

THE DEVIL HIMSELF by C.A. Salo

2010-01-15T12:54:00.000-08:00

THE DEVIL HIMSELF
C A SALO
Paranormal
Whiskey Creek Press Torrid
Sensual
ISBN# 978-1-60313-067-7
121Pages
$4.99
Ebook - Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Meet Luca, a man that has never known true love of any kind. A man that does not see himself as anything any woman could love. They call him the Jersey Devil, for a reason. He has lived for centuries always searching for that elusive thing called love. Then one night he smells blood in his woods and his life is changed forever.

Now, our lovely heroine Chandra Burke, is a woman that is not afraid to go after what she wants. She has always looked for the beauty beneath the beast in all things. She never would have dreamed she would get the chance to see a real beast. She is a photographer and has always captured the truth in her art. Then after a savage beating from a human monster she will finally get to prove that a Knight in Shining Armor can come in many forms.

This is the story of two people brought together by fate. One a man called the Jersey Devil who feels he is cursed from finding true love, and the other a young woman who feels that curse is a blessing for it saves her life. Luca and Chandra must learn to trust one another if they are going to defeat this curse, especially with an ancient enemy that will do whatever it takes to stop their love.

This is a fantastic story of the power of love and looking below the surface especially if you believe beauty is only skin deep. I loved the characters and the love scenes were hot and spicy. But that is what you can expect from a Ms. Salo love story. The characters drew you to them with the depth of their feelings for one another. The relationship between them could be heart warming and heart wrenching at the same time. You had no choice but to cheer them on. I have only one complaint I never wanted the story to end.

If you would like to find out more about C. A. Salo and her works please go to her website www.casalo.com.

Melanie
Enchanting Reviews
April 2009

THE EX-MRS. HEDGEFUND by Jill Kargman

2010-01-15T12:48:00.000-08:00

THE EX-MRS. HEDGEFUND
JILL KARGMAN
Dutton-Penguin Group
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0-525-95098-1
290 Pages
$25.95 (Hardcover)
Available April 2009

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Holly Talbott is the main character who is married to a very successful Hedge funder in New York named Tim. She is the perfect hedge fund wife who plays the part and fulfills her society obligations and puts up with all the other stuffy, stuck up wives.

Kiki is Holly’s wild and crazy friend and married to Tim’s brother. The family is not wild about Kiki and would prefer Holly to not hang out with her.

Holly and Kiki go out in trendy Williamsburg and are shocked to find Tim cheating with a younger woman. Forced to choose between living honestly, with integrity or playing the part and living a lie, Holly chooses to get a divorce and try out the single life again. This is a 'Sex and The City' kind of adventure as Holly and Kiki try to find love.

I loved this book, THE EX-MRS. HEDGEFUND. Ms. Kargman has a unique and witty writing style that keeps you turning the pages. Her descriptions are hilarious and descriptive. She makes up charts to explain the varying degrees of whatever she is describing. For example, her Blonde-O-Meter describes Ashy Blonde as a Locust Valley matron all the way through Platinum which equals a Porn Star. Truly a delightful read!

Ms. Kargman has several books on the New York Times Best Seller List and has written for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Interview, Town & Country to name a few. She lives on the Upper East Side of Manhattan with her husband and three children. Email her at jillkargman@mac.com.

Sandy Maffeo
Enchanting Reviews
May, 2009

THE MAJESTIC LION by Diane Taylor

2010-01-14T06:23:00.000-08:00

THE MAJESTIC LION
DIANE TAYLOR
Fantasy/Time Travel
Firedrakes Weyr Publication
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# (13) 978-1-935141-06-8
(10) 1-935141-06-6
ESN 6131308013053026632
110 pages
$5.50
Ebook/Print - Available now
Rating: 4 Enchantments

Suren, the Mongol war lord’s son, is an incredibly handsome, virile warrior with eyes for the new warrior who traveled back from the future. Suren knew in his heart that he was in love with her.
Tara Michaels is a spirited student studying to become an archeologist. She is quick witted in conversation, and is rising up from an abusive upbringing to being a woman of her own. Tara gets sucked back in time to the 1500’s and is introduced to many of the ancient Mongols.

Tara is transported back to the time period she has done extensive research on, and becomes enmeshed in the lives of those in the tribe. Tara meets her many times great grandmother, her many times great grandfather, and the love of her life, Suren. Tara ends up traveling back and forth between the two ages, battling evil and finally settling in modern day where her love Suren, travels forward as well to grow old with her.

This was a very creative work where the author beautifully covered some complex historical events. I totally enjoyed the love between Tara and Suren, it was hot, and by their actions, you could tell they deeply loved each other. The battle scenes were brilliantly written taking me back to the life and times of ancient Mongolia. The violence on the battlefield, although completely historically accurate was just a bit much for the passive girl that I am. The author obviously studied, and this story is beautifully written. I enjoyed the book, and knowing me will probably read it again. This book is well worth the money spent.

Ms. Taylor has short stories published on an adult oriented website. Ebooks are all she writes at present. She would love to hear from you and you can reach her at dianet_write@yahoo.com.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
June 2009

THE PRINCESS AND THE PROMISE by Elise Dee Beraru

2010-01-14T06:19:00.000-08:00

THE PRINCESS AND THE PROMISE
ELISE DEE BERARU
Fantasy/Historical Romance
Awe-Struck E-Books
Sensuality Rating: Sensuous (Mild)
ISBN# 978-1-58749-644-8
296 pages
eBook $4.99
eBook/Print – Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Prince Darius has the misfortunate of being the second born son of King Isham, of Zarbaria. By royal decree, only the first-born son can inherit the throne and his brothers must all face the same doom…a lifetime of celibacy and service enclosed in the cloister of the Goddess.
Princess Roxana is the first-born and heir to the throne of Hebrun, the kingdom that borders Zarbaria. She is remarkable in beauty and height, having reached six feet at the age of fourteen and making her the tallest person in her kingdom. Roxana is close to her younger sibling, Prince Pavlek, training together to take on the roles of the future military leaders of their kingdom. When still very young, Roxana and Pavlek have a vision of the Goddess that changes them forever.

Ms. Beraru’s tale set in the alternate worlds of Zarbaria and Hebrun is well plotted and crafted. Her expertise in law, textiles and architectural restoration come through in the details she incorporates to create a magnificent panorama that will spark your imagination, yet keep you grounded in the story. Her writing style is clear and concise making the reading of this story a pure delight.

Darius is easy to identify with either as the proud Prince of Zarbaria or lowly votee. Here is an unforgettable, tortured hero who will steal your breath away. You never lose interest as you embark on the journey with Darius to find his true love. Roxana is a strong, compassionate character who loves the former prince as he deserves to be loved. As a reader, you cannot help but feel deeply for the trials and tribulations these characters endure and the resolution will make you cheer. THE PRINCESS AND THE PROMISE is a wonderful tale of love, honor and sacrifice. I eagerly look forward to the sequel entitled, “The Surgeon and The Virgin” which is currently in the works.

In addition to her writing career, Ms. Beraru is also an award winning fabric artist, specializing in art reproduction quilts, unusual handbags, and Judaica. After closing her California law practice, she moved to Lynchburg, Virginia, where she participates in the restoration of historic houses, craft and art shows, promoting the local opera company, as well as singing and public speaking. Visit her website: http://members.aol.com/elise0511/romance/index.htm.

Rowena
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

THE TORY WIDOW by Christine Blevins

2010-01-14T06:17:00.000-08:00

THE TORY WIDOW
CHRISTINE BLEVINS
Historical
Berkley
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN#978-0-425-22601-8
384 pages
$15.00
Print - Available Now

Rating: 4 1/2 Enchantments

Jack Hampton is a true patriot. With his strong beliefs in independence he will do anything for his and others’ freedom. With the British invasion and men turning against men it is really hard for Jack to trust anyone.

After being widowed Anne Merrick uses her brains and wits to show that she can be independent and not have to rely on a man. She is a very strong willed woman and also very smart. Even when her store is ruined because it got out she was printing Tory propaganda she prevails and just keeps going.

The group gets information that the Widow Merrick is using her print press to print Tory propaganda. With finding evidence of her printing they set out to destroy her shop but Jack vows to keep an eye on the Widow. Jack follows Anne when she is out doing an errand for her shop, with this he finds himself saving her from a vicious attack by a couple of men. And out of this a friendship builds between them.

Anne and her friend Sally decided to stay on to take care of Anne’s wounded brother, whom Jack also saved, who is hiding in her home. But with the British pounding on her door in order to survive she must show her loyalty to the King of England. But while serving tea and scones to the military men she decides to do her part for the cause she befriends Captain Blankenship. Through this friendship Anne gathers helpful information for General George Washington. When given information about Anne being on the Kings side Jack is furious. The one person who thought he could really trust. He sets out to find the truth about Anne.

Be prepared to be swept back into time. Ms. Blevins, while mixing both fact and fiction, has written a moving story. I enjoyed Jack and Anne but I really loved Anne’s friend Sally. She has a very quick mouth ready to put a man in his spot. In a time when trust is tested the relationship between Jack and Anne went through a lot of struggles but with time they show that a beautiful love can blossom. This being the first in a trilogy I am looking forward to the next in the series.

Ms. Blevins resides in Illinois with her family. She enjoys hearing from her readers you can contact her at chris@christineblevins.com.

Kim Graham
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
April 2009

BAD, BAD BOYS by Aaron Michaels

2010-01-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

BAD, BAD BOYS
AARON MICHAELS
Gay Contemporary Erotic Short Story
Torque Press
Sensuality Rating:
ISBN# n/a
13 pages
$1.29
eBook - Available March 2009

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Marc spends two weeks out of every four away on business. The salary he earns allows Marc and his long time partner, William, to live in Beverly Hills. Although he’s away from home quite a bit, the altruistic nature of his work, obtaining charitable donations, goes some way toward making up for being away so often.

William is a talented artist who isn’t always practical or easy to live with. His forgetfulness has often meant that he and Marc spend a lot of time searching for car keys. Over time they’ve developed a system – both men will leave their keys in the basket by the front door. To forget is to invite punishment of the erotic kind.

One thing I enjoyed most about this short story is that Marc and William aren’t meeting for the very first time. They have already established how their relationship works. In a lot of other novels or novellas, introducing characters who are new to each other often means the reader must spend a fair bit of the book learning about each of the characters. These stories always end on the happily ever after theme. Unless it’s a continuation of a series the reader never really gets to see what everyday life is like. BAD, BAD BOYS is life after the happily ever after. We’re not reading about a couple who’ve lost sight of why they fell in love in the first place. If anything, Marc and William have found very real ways to reaffirm their feelings.

BAD, BAD BOYS is short, intense, extremely erotic and, interestingly enough, very humorous. When their kitchen activities begin to get rather loud Marc belatedly remembers they have a guest, only by this point it’s rather late in the game as both are facing the doorway when he spies Arthur making his way down the hall. Unsure of how much Arthur actually saw, breakfast is a rather uncertain affair. When Arthur makes a comment about pancake turners Marc’s mortification knows no bounds. Arthur’s gift to the couple a month later serves to highlight the hilarity around the kitchen scene. I am always impressed by authors who manage to sparingly use words to condense so much feeling, humour and personality into short story characters. Aaron Michaels does such a great job of this! I can say, hand on heart, that I will be looking for more stories by this author.

Visit Torque Press for a complete listing of Aaron Michael’s stories.

Tosca
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
June 2009

CAREY’D AWAY by J.M. Synder

2010-01-14T05:53:00.000-08:00

CAREY’D AWAY
J. M. SNYDER
Gay Contemporary Erotic Romance
Amber Allure Press
Sensuality Rating: Heat Level 3
ISBN# 978-1-60272-505-8
79 pages
eBook $5.00
eBook - Available April 2009

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Carey Thornton is young, sexy, bold, tired of his single state...and suffering from a sexual drought. His wish list for his ideal man isn’t too picky: a man who under estimates his own hotness with a body that won’t quit. In short, someone other than anyone he’ll ever meet at a comic book convention. Not too much to ask is it?

Patrick Dix is the embodiment of Carey’s list. He’s painfully shy, slightly nervy, easily tongue-tied and has no clue of his own inherent sex appeal. And the bonus - he’s not a fan of comic books either. So when he meets someone as vibrant as Carey, it’s right out of his comfort zone. It isn’t long before he discovers that the price of temporary discomfort is a man who pushes and tempts you to reach out and take what you truly want. When Patrick seems more inclined to take a step back, Carey is right there to follow through, showing himself to be an exciting and challenging partner.

Snyder’s characters are modern, humorous and painfully human. So much so, in fact, that one can’t help wincing in empathy with Patrick’s lack of self-confidence. By contrast, Carey’s forthright and frank nature serves as a perfect foil. Snyder cannot be faulted on sexual tension - the expectation of an encounter is in every word, every gesture and every shared look. A delicious frisson of awareness is constantly simmering away over and around all of the banter.
I was always aware, at every moment, of their thoughts and feelings. Carey’s friends were a very interesting and quirky bunch of people. I’m no stranger to male/male romance stories and I think that sometimes it’s possible to find authors who churn out books that are really good reads but don’t offer anything beyond sexual gymnastics. I really liked how Patrick’s vulnerability was portrayed but I much preferred him on an equal footing.

CAREY’D AWAY is a contemporary romance that manages to be both erotic and sweet at one and the same time. I thought this was a fantastic read and I will definitely be looking for more by this author. Starting today!

Born in Richmond, Virginia, J. M. Snyder is a writer of gay male erotic and romantic fiction. For free stories and excerpts visit her website: www.jmsnyder.com, alternately readers can send an email to: jms@snyder.net.

Tosca
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
May 2009

IN FOR A PENNY by Carol Lynne

2010-01-14T05:50:00.000-08:00

IN FOR A PENNY
CAROL LYNNE
Gay Contemporary Erotic Romance
Resplendence Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Fire Opal
ISBN# 962011014381
95 pages
eBook $5.00
eBook: February 2009

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Raven Black is quite an impressive sight – he stands at six-foot-three, weighs over two hundred pounds, has body piercings and tattoos. These days he’s a bad boy turned FBI agent but seven years ago he thought his life was exactly what he wanted. All he needed to make it complete would be to have Zane Connor, his foster brother, return his feelings. It broke his heart to find that wasn’t the case.

Zane is now a very wealthy and powerful man and, at six-foot-one with deep blue eyes and long, thick, black lashes he’s even more tempting than he was seven years ago. And he’s been unhappily in love with Raven forever.

Someone is stealing cattle from Zane’s ranch, and not in small numbers, either. The discovery of a dead body, badly abused, just adds to the tension, especially when Ray knows that the murderer is most likely to be his abusive father. Zane has brought Ray home to find out who would kill a seventeen-year-old boy.

Ms. Lynne’s characters are very human, so much so that their imperfections make them more real and likeable. It also made it easier to really empathise with Raven’s plight. His homecoming wasn’t quite the return he wanted it to be: he got to come home but he had to pretend to hate the love of his life. It seemed like he was constantly being given a second chance only to have it taken away again. The tension between them is scorching and, at times, very intense, and I couldn’t help cheering for them from the sidelines. I’m always a sucker for a cowboy story. Especially a male/male romance and IN FOR A PENNY did not disappoint me in any way. It hits the right spot: a touch of murder, a dash of intrigue, a soupcon of unrequited love mixed in with some pretty gosh darn hot male on male action – I will definitely be reading more by this particular author!

Ms. Lynne is a writer of erotic and romantic fiction, and some of her works include the very popular male/male series Cattle Valley and Campus Cravings. For a complete listing of her previous books and stories visit her website: www.carol-lynne.net/, alternately readers can send a message via her website contact form: www.carol-lynne.net/contact/.

Tosca
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
May 2009

UNSPOKEN SECRETS by Destiny Blaine

2010-01-14T05:48:00.000-08:00

UNSPOKEN SECRETS
DESTINY BLAINE
Contemporary Romance
Whispers Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# Not Assigned
95 Pages
$3.95
Ebook/Print - Available

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Tanner Dorsey was the leader of the largest American Drug Cartel. He was hot, filthy rich, and worked with Ally’s two older brothers, Darren and David. Tanner loved Ally beyond imagination, but he was on one side of the law and she was on the other. So he kept an eye on her, had his men photograph her, and he watched his beautiful girls grow, without his loving touches.

FBI Agent Ally Stevens has been in love with Tanner Dorsey since she was 12 years old. She made love to only one man, once in her entire life, Tanner Dorsey. She got pregnant and gave birth to beautiful twin daughters, their father, the only man she ever loved, Tanner Dorsey. The problem? He ran an illegal drug cartel and she worked for the FBI.

This the second book in a trilogy, which continues the intense love story between Tanner Dorsey and Ally Stevens. The two of them are on opposite sides of the law, but they have loved each other since Ally was twelve years old. This second book develops the love between the two of them, but leaves you wondering what’s in book three.

Okay this was book two, book one pissed me off, so I was expecting the same out of book two. As a matter of fact, the author (a dear friend), told me I would probably hate this book as much as I hated book one. I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the way Tanner and Ally’s relationship progressed. It was brought one step closer to each of the characters personal fulfillment with each other. I can hardly wait for book three. This trilogy is so well written, it keeps the reader glued to the outcome of the story. The sex is hot and the relationship strong and vibrant. I loved this story, and this trilogy will remain in my keep forever pile. I will recommend it to my friends.

To find out more about Ms. Blaine, visit her website at http://www.destinyblaine.com/ and watch for her in 2009 when she visits Melbourne, Australia for the 2009 Inaugural Australian Romance Readers Convention.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
October 2008

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL by Carla Cassidy

2010-01-14T05:46:00.000-08:00

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
CARLA CASSIDY
Suspense/Romantic
Penguin/Signet Eclipse
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 9780451228277
336 pages
$7.99
Print - October 6, 2009

Rating: 5 Enchantments

After the murder of her younger sister, Jordan Sampson decides to become a homicide detective. She is a very strong and smart woman. She is dealing with an ex husband at the same time she trying to understand why her daughter doesn’t want to be with here when some terrible murders happen that is closer to her than she realizes.

Jordan Sampson loves her job as a homicide detective but the only thing she loves more is her daughter Mandy. When Mandy grows more estranged from her for unknown reasons to Jordan and skips their weekend visitation, Jordan decides to attend her high school reunion where she meets up with her past high school sweet heart Clint. Unknown to Jordan her reunion also sets off a killer’s rampage. While Jordan struggles with building a relationship with Clint and trying to make some progress with her daughter, a killer is out killing her old cheerleading squad one by one. She is on a very tight time limit to find this killer before she is the next on the killer’s list.

Ms. Cassidy had me from page one. The build up of suspense was an edge of your seat thrill ride. Jordan was the best she is a very strong character. To have a very high pressure job and also dealing with the pressure of her personal life she kept her head up and kept going. I would highly recommend this to all. Like all good suspense you will be very surprised at the end. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Cassidy.

Ms. Cassidy is a multi award winning author who has written over 70 books. She presently lives in Missouri with her husband. You can check out her websites at http://www.carlacassidybooks.com/, http://www.carlacassidy.ning.com/. She also loves to hear from her readers:
c.cassidy1@juno.com.

Kim Graham
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2009

DEL FANTASMA: WHITE RUSSIAN by Selena Illyria

2010-01-14T05:42:00.000-08:00

DEL FANTASMA: WHITE RUSSIAN
SELENA ILLYRIA
Paranormal Romance
Aspen Mountain Press
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN# 978-1-60168-197-3
71 pages
$3.00
Ebook- Available now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Tuesday Dean, a Halfling Demon, never expected to see her old love after refusing his proposal of marriage 10 years ago. Living in the human world has taught her many things but her feelings for Gavrill haven’t changed at all. Now he’s back and the choice is up to her, walk beside the man she’s always loved or let others opinions decide for her.

Demon Gavrill Chimera, a full Demon, is on the human realm on a mission for his soon to be King. But he never expected to see the one woman he’s ever loved, Tuesday. But this time is different, heart broken when he let her go her own way 10 years ago almost killed him, now he’s playing for keeps with her heart in his sight.

White Russian is a sensual story that pulls the reader briskly into the sensual world of demons, humans and Halfling’s, a tangled web of desire, decisions, and fantasies. From the ingenious stunning atmosphere in which the story takes place, to the character’s whose relationship ignites into a passion that entices you to delve deeper into the story of Tuesday and Gavrill, diving the reader head first into a pool of love and passion. Ms. Illyria uses whit, sensual needs and charm to bring her characters to life in a way that will leave the reader refreshed and energized with a new perspective in her world. The story will pull the reader down a corridor of lust, indecision, and love unlike anything they’ve read before.

Ms. Illyria is an enthralling author at her craft of contemporary paranormal to futuristic Sci-fi. You can find more of her other works at www.selenaillyria.com or contact her directly with her email address at selenaillyria826@gmail.com.

Cathleen Yager
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
May 2009

WYNDSHEER by Charlotte Boyett-Compo

2010-01-14T05:40:00.000-08:00

WYNDSHEER
CHARLOTTE BOYETT-COMPO
Paranormal/Romance/Suspense
New Concepts Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Carnal
ISBN# 978-1-60394-142-6
108 pages
$5.50
Ebook - Available

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Jamie MacGivern is an absolutely gorgeous lycant, a wolf shape shifter. He is a genetically engineered super human with wolf-like abilities and killer instincts. He has taken Allison, married or not; she is his mate, and he knows it!

Allison Groves was a Federal Agent, at least until her plane crashed, and she woke up without any memories, only to meet and fall in love with the lycant.

This is a fabulous paranormal romance filled with mystery, hot sex, and suspense. Allison Groves is matched and mated with her lycant hero, Jamie MacGivern. When her memory returns, she makes the choice to stay with the lycant, no longer to return to her old life.

I absolutely loved this story! It’s one of the best I have ever read. The author’s word pictures were phenomenal; the sex absolutely fabulous. The suspense, mystery and intrigue was so well written, I literally could not put the book down. The paranormal creatures completely captivated me with their texture, size and the description of their smell. This story was awesome, very well written. I would say to anyone - if you like paranormal, suspense, and good hot sex, this is a must read. If you are an aspiring author and want to effectively paint pictures with your words, this is a must read, as well as a writing course in a box. If I could give it more than five enchantments, I would. Absolutely fabulous.

Ms. Boyett-Compo is the author of fifty books, the first ten of which are the Wind Legend Saga. Married 40 years to her high school sweetheart, Tom, she is the mother of two grown sons, Pete and Mike, and the proud grandmother of Preston Alexander and Victoria Ashley. You can reach her at: http://www.windlegends.org.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
June 2008

ESCAPE IN PASSION by Shiela Stewart

2010-01-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

ESCAPE IN PASSION – Book 2
SHIELA STEWART
Contemporary Erotic Suspense Romance/ Drama
Linden Bay Romance, LLC
Sensuality Rating: Sensuous
ISBN# Paperback 978-1-60202-093-1
eBook 978-60202-092-4
236 pages
$ 6.99 eBook/ $13.99 Print
EBook/Print - Available January 2008

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Thirty-year-old Victor Davis is our hero, a six foot somthin’, blond hunk of gorgeous. He is a cop, Staff Sergeant Davis to be exact. Vic came to Passion as the police chief, and to get away from the death of his lover Michelle, who was killed in a drive-by shooting. Although the case was never solved, Vic knew that Michelle was killed by her husband Marshall, a big time drug runner or his minions. Because Vic needed a change of scenery he moved to Passion, two doors down from his best friend Tom, and Tom’s wife Cassie who is pregnant with their first child.

Twenty-year-old Julia Wilson is a darling little redhead with bright green eyes who gets pulled over by Cop Gorgeous, Staff Sergeant Davis to be exact, the very man she came to town to meet. She came to town to kill him for killing her older sister Michelle, or so she’s been led to believe by Marshall, Michelle’s husband. The more Julia gets to know Vic, the more she comes to realize that Marshall had to be mistaken, and the more she falls in love with Vic. But how can she ever reveal to him her true identity?

This is a story of suspense, intrigue, and murder, where one mentally broken police officer comes together with one heart broken redhead. They come together sexually, the sex evolves to love, and in the process a murder is solved, and a killer is unmasked.

This was an absolutely wonderful story, a must read for those who enjoy suspense and intrigue, the sex is good as well. I thought Shiela Stewart created marvelous characters with vibrant personalities; each character was so well defined, and blended harmoniously with the others, creating a symphony of believable relationships. I sat down last night to just read a couple of chapters and I could not put the book down until I had read the entire thing. I loved this story, the suspense, the conclusion, and the epilogue. This is a must read, and I will read it again.

Ms. Stewart lives in Saskatchewan, Canada with her husband William and their three children. She spends her days writing and maintains websites for two organizations she belongs to. Her passions aside from writing are stargazing, music, dancing, and home décor. Her favorite time of day is sunset.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

HUNTER'S REVENGE by Bonnie Rose Leigh

2010-01-09T05:58:00.000-08:00

HUNTER’S REVENGE
BONNIE ROSE LEIGH
Futuristic romance
eXtasy Books
Sensuality rating: 4 Flames
ISBN# 1-55410-995-7
182 Pages
$5.99
eBook – Available September 1, 2007

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Hunter Shi’lan is a Lionese from Chantrea, the heir to the throne. The only problem is Hunter is lonely. He wants to find his mate and settle down as his brother, Taliff, has with his Earther-Lionese mate, Eve. Then he scents her and nothing can stop him from hunting her down and rescuing her, but will he be able to convince her to mate with him?

Amy has given up on life and only wishes to die. She has been kidnapped by the infamous Black Rose and is being used as a breeder. Six or seven times a day, men come to her and assault her. All in the hopes that she will get pregnant, and if she fights or refuses to cooperate in any other way, she is beaten.

The Black Rose has been plaguing the planets for some time now and she’s not above using anyone to get what she wants. Too bad she’s Taliff and Hunter’s sister, because when Hunter catches up with her he’s going to kill her for what she’s done to his mate and others.

This is book two of a series. I haven’t read the first one, though I am going to purchase it. You can read this one without reading the first, but since there is an over-arching story arc, it’s my thought that you need to read the books in order.

That said, I loved this book. I can’t say that enough times. I love this book and I wasn’t sure I would when I started reading it. I loved Amy’s strength despite her ordeal. The storyline is great and the attention to detail of the culture of these societies is wonderful and makes for a very rich story. Hunter is a hero any woman would fall in love with and he is matched very well by Amy despite the way you see her when her part of the book opens. If you love attention to detail, a great story arc, characters you can fall in love with, read this.

Bonnie Rose Leigh has been writing since she was small. She lives in Upstate New York in a small town. If she’s not writing she’s reading and odds are you will find a cup of cocoa in her hand. You can reach Bonnie through her website: http://www.mybonnierose.net/

Jordan
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

ENSLAVED by Hope Tarr

2010-01-08T20:08:00.000-08:00

ENSLAVED
HOPE TARR
Historical Romance
Medallion Press
Sensuality Rating - Sexy
ISBN# 978-1-933836-12-6
$6.99
376 pages
Paperback - Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Daisy Lake and Gavin Carmichael are an unusual pair. Separated fifteen years ago, it seems like fate that Gavin would find her in London of all places, just as he’s about to give up the search. But a lot has changed in that time, and Daisy is nothing like the little girl he remembers. She’s strong willed, beautiful and hiding a secret.

Gavin’s finally found the woman he’s spent the last year searching for, in of all places, an East End supper club. But when he carries her off stage, beneath the harsh make-up and Delilah De-Luc persona, is still the Daisy Lake he loved as a child. And now that he has the money and influence, he’s willing to help make her dreams to become an actress come true.

When Gavin promises to help her become a real actress, Daisy jumps at the chance. She’ll be able to spend thirty days and even better, thirty nights, alone with the very handsome Gavin. But he seems adverse to her eduction, even when it’s obvious he has feelings that go well beyond friendship for her.

ENSLAVED is an engrossing read. Daisy and Gavin’s relationship has quite a few ups and downs, from the attempt at sabotaging Daisy’s career by a jealous woman to Gavin’s grandfather’s demands. But the biggest obstacle these two face is Daisy’s secret, her past and how willing Gavin is to accept Daisy as she is today.

One of my favorite scenes is when Daisy is summoned by the London Vigilance Committee. After answering their questions, she has to perform one of her songs from her Delilah De-Luc days to answer the charge of whether her act qualified as “lewd and lascivious”.

A captivating Victorian Romance, ENSLAVED is the second book in Ms. Tarr’s Roxbury House trilogy. You can visit her online at http://www.hopetarr.com/.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

THE DOCTOR NEXT DOOR by Catherine Berlin

2010-01-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

THE DOCTOR NEXT DOOR

CATHERINE BERLIN
Contemporary Erotic Romance
Red Sage Publishing
Sensuality Rating: E-rotic
ISBN# Adobe PDF 978-1-60310-160-8
Mobi pocket 978-1-60310-161-5
MS Reader 978-1-60310-162-2
HTML 978-1-60310-163-2
79 pages
$4.50
Available February 2008

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Brandon, who’s very good looking, is an Emergency Room doctor with a busy schedule, but he’s never too busy to notice his lovely neighbor Gen.

Gen is a thirty-year-old virgin. She’s gorgeous and she writes romance novels, in which she uses her hunky neighbor next door as a pattern for her heroes. But she will never date or get to know him because he is a doctor.

Brandon, because of his profession, is ignored by Gen because of a fear she has that all doctors are alike. They are like her father, cold and self-serving. When she finally learns that Brandon is truly a nice guy and lets her guard down, they get together, date, and after she overcomes some of her fears, he asks her to marry him.

Cute! Cute! Cute! This is a darling sensuous love story where two single neighbors who have admired each other from a distance for some time, finally come together. I completely enjoyed the relationship evolvement in this story, it was totally believable, and when Brandon dressed as a highland laird, complete with white billowy shirt and kilt, comes knocking at Gen’s door equipped with a picnic basket, full of traditional Scottish foods, I cracked up. He was just trying to fulfill one of Gen’s fantasies from the latest romance novel she had written, and which he had purchased, to better understand her. The scenario was completely believable as well as darling. This is a cute story and well worth the read, this is a keeper; I will definitely read it again.

Ms. Berlin sang in a band which helped her pay for college where she earned degrees in three languages. She ended up marrying the man who auditioned for drummer in the same band. He won the job and her heart, and they are married to this day. She can be reached at CatherineBerlinAuthor@yahoo.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

UNSPOKEN PROMISES by Bonnie Hamre

2010-01-06T17:38:00.000-08:00

UNSPOKEN PROMISES

BONNIE HAMRE
Romance – Paranormal/Time Travel
Cerridwen Press
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 9781419909757
278 pages
$7.99
eBook - Available July 2007

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Ford Hunter is following the 1847 California Trail across the Nevada desert. A recent widower, he’s trying to cope with a toddler and a baby while keeping his oxen alive and wagon whole. The last thing he needs is some crazy lady showing up, claiming she’s from the future while wearing clothes not fit for a decent woman to be seen in.

Mollie Andersen has just buried her husband and daughter and is driving back cross-country to her roots in California. At a rest stop, she has a black out caused by a strong wind and wakes up in the middle nowhere. She stumbles across what she thinks is a troop of reenactment enthusiasts and tries to get them to help her back to the interstate. When they refuse to break characters, she is at first annoyed but then grows wary as they seem to resent her mysterious arrival and clothes.

The two main characters are drawn to each other immediately and forced to marry when caught in the compromising position of kissing passionately. Molly eventually realizes that she has somehow stepped back in time and Ford accepts that she is from the future when he sees her flashlight and color photographs. Although extremely attracted to each other, their strong personalities clash, making it hard for the two of them to trust each other and form the alliance necessary to stay alive on the trail. Molly and Ford have to battle lack of water and food, violent Native Americans, and also suspicious and superstitious pioneers.

I loved both of these characters. They are well developed and the sexual tension between them more sizzling than the bacon Mollie learns to fry on Ford’s cast iron skillet. Ms. Hamre’s research is remarkable and I learned more about the pioneer’s trail than any history book has told me. I laughed and cried as this love story developed and ultimately ended with both characters finding the truth about their love within themselves. Reading the book was a fantastic journey and I thank Ms. Hamre for making it so enjoyable and educational.

Ms. Hamre is a multi-published fiction and travel author. To find out more about her, visit http://www.bonniehamre.com/.

Åsa Maria Bradley
EnchantingReviews
February 2008

THE BEAST WITHIN by Rebecca Goings

2010-01-06T17:29:00.000-08:00

THE BEAST WITHIN

REBECCA GOINGS

Paranormal Romance
Champagne Books
Sensuality Rating - Sensual
ISBN# 1897261276
240 pages
$6.00
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Let me introduce you to Lanie Erickson. A heroine yearning for a little adventure in her life but never expecting to find more than what she was looking for. She has always been the dutiful daughter, never stepping out of bounds. Until one night in a most unexpected way she meets the man of her dreams; or will he become her nightmare instead? For he is unlike anything she has been prepared for and only her quest for a dream will let her win out.

Now for Noah Carpenter, our hero. A man who does not remember his past, for it was stolen from him. But he is a man who remembers many tormenting hours at the hands of a group of sadistic scientists that will do whatever it takes to make killing machines. Our hero does not want to be that and escapes. But he must discover the truth of his past so that he might have a future with the woman of his dreams.

This is the story of two people brought together in unusual circumstances; you might say a twist of fate. One just going back to a mundane life and the other looking for his past but never expecting to find his future instead and his freedom. But first Noah must escape the enemy that is hunting him and putting in danger the life of the woman who has come to mean more than his own freedom. A predator not unlike himself. Can he save her from a fate worse then death before his enemy changes her and will he have to trade his freedom for hers?

I really liked this story. The interaction between the hero and heroine was intense. The tormenting thoughts of the heroine, wondering if she will be able to stick with him or was he just a man with an overactive imagination, were enthralling. These things just pull you into the story and you cannot help but feel for the tormented hero. This book is a must for the shape shifter fan and I cannot wait for the next installment in this great series.

About Ms. Goings, her first writing love will always be historical novels. She has written a few paranormals and contempary novels. Being a writer has been her dream come true and she cannot think of anything she would rather do. She lives in Oregon with her husband and four children.

Melanie
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

MISS LONELY HEARTS by Charlene Teglia

2010-01-05T19:31:00.000-08:00

MISS LONELY HEARTS

CHARLENE TEGLIA
Romantic Comedy
Samhain Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN# 1-59998-031-2
167 Pages
$4.50
eBook – Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

After two failed engagements, Cassandra Adams is sick of looking for love first, hoping it would eventually lead to marriage. Her first fiancé left her the day of the wedding. Her second fiancé broke up with her at work, a month before their planned wedding. The one common denominator in both break-ups was Cassandra's cousin, Riley the Bastard. If Cassandra weds by her 28th birthday, she stood to inherit 3 million dollars, if she was not wed by then, it would revert to her cousin's side of the family. Cassandra decided it was time to look for marriage first, and to hope that love follows. Her first step was to peruse the online dating sites, where she came across a promising candidate in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Someone is pulling a “Miss Lonely Hearts” con on the good male patrons of the Last Chance Saloon, and Jason Alexander is determined to find out who it is, and to trap her at her own game. Jason posted a profile on an online dating site, knowing that he would get the woman, and make her pay back what she had conned his customers out of. Sam, Dwight and Duke- the victims, described her profile as blonde and beautiful, from Seattle.

When Jason and Cassandra start communicating, Cassandra thought she found a man she could spend the rest of her life with in happiness. Jason knows he had found Miss Lonely Hearts. He set the trap, and figured to spring it. Much to his surprise, though not the surprise of Sam, Dwight and Duke, Cassandra is the genuine article, and he cannot wait to get married to her.

This is a very sweet story, I fell in love with the characters - Cassandra, who just wants to find someone who will love her and cynical Jason who was just out to catch a con artist, but finds love instead. I also liked the quirky side characters, as Ms. Teglia made them realistic and funny. I could picture Reverend Moonshine, Rex and Mona as she described them.

I do believe my favorite line in the book was “...that she'd had a stripper jump out of her wedding cake.” Now if that doesn't set the tone for a comedy, I don't know what will. Cassandra and Jason's wedding was definitely not your ordinary wedding, but it would be a memorable one. There was a steam and chemistry between them that made you want this marriage to work. The sex scenes were very hot, and, I thought, very well written.

This is the first book I've read by Charlene Teglia, but it will not be the last. She spun a tale full of romance and humor, which I loved. To find out more about her and her books you visit her on the web at: www.charleneteglia.com or join her Yahoo!group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wicked_writers/.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

BOLD BRIDE by Melany Logen

2010-01-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

BOLD BRIDE
MELANY LOGEN

Multicultural Erotic Historical/Western
Loose ID
Sensuality Rating: Erotic
ISBN# 978-1-59632-649-1
86 pages
$4.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Miguel Ruiz was a half-breed, half Mexican and half White. Why she picked him to be her husband was beyond him, he wasn’t safe, but he WAS attracted to her!!

Abigail Sutton found herself alone when her father left her. She needed a husband and needed one fast! She sought out the only man she was attracted to, Miguel Ruiz. Besides, it was only a business arrangement, right??

This is a short historical romance that starts out as a business arrangement only, but soon blossoms to something much deeper, much more permanent, true love!
This is a great story I totally enjoyed it! The author took a creative idea, a young woman’s aloneness out on the prairie, and wove into the situation , a beautiful passionate love story, that leaves the reader with a warm tingly feeling, and a happily ever after. Great story, great read!!

Once upon a time, two little girls grew up hundreds of miles apart. They lived, they loved and especially, they read. Reading led them to finding each other and discovering a mutual love of writing. They are two lucky people who have found a best friend and a wonderful writing partner online. From that partnership, Melany Logen was born.

Visit Melany on the Web at www.melanylogen.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

RATIONAL ANIMALS by K.A. M'Lady

2010-01-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

RATIONAL ANIMALS

K.A. M’LADY
Fantasy/suspense
eXtasy Books
Sensuality Rating: 3 flames
ISBN# 1-55410-813-6
68 pages
$2.99
eBook – Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Toren Crushing is a biologist who has studied the integration of wolves back into Yellowstone National Forest.

Renee Faroque is a beautiful Crow Indian with the knowledge of Crow healing techniques.
This is a tale of suspense and intrigue involving the wolves of the forest, the great white wolf in particular, of the Nez Pierce Pack, and its cunning and leadership regarding man.

The word pictures in this story are phenomenal, example “The slushy crimson crystals of the snow freezing into a burst of red death,” I couldn’t put the story down once I started. It’s a quick read, it took me thirty minutes, but in that amount of time, the imagery was so clear, I could smell the forest, feel the cold, and hear the song of the wolf. This is really excellent work, and the story comes across almost like an Indian mythological tale. Excellent read!!

K.A. M’Lady currently resides in the suburbs of Chicago with her husband and three children. Her love of all things medieval draws her to the past like the last firefly at dusk in late September. She still believes that hope inspires all possibilities; dreams are always within our grasp if we just reach for them and love truly is the strongest warrior in any battle.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

FALLEN by Lauren Kate

2010-01-05T16:59:00.000-08:00

FALLEN

LAUREN KATE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Press
ISBN# 978-0-385-73893-4
452 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments
Luce Price has always seen shadows, these terrifying things that appear around her without warning. She's helpless to stop them and the destruction that usually follows their appearances. Thanks to them and the death of the guy she was crushing on, she's found herself at Sword & Cross boarding school, a place for screw-ups and delinquents, something that Luce appears to be—at least to everyone else, including her own parents, who are slightly afraid of her after what happened. But how can Luce explain the shadows without everyone thinking she's crazy?

Daniel Grigori has a secret. He's immortal and he and Luce have had several past lives together before, but every time she's died before things reached a certain point. So when she shows up at Sword & Cross, he vows to stay away from her, that is until she finds herself in real danger and Daniel is forced to intervene.

I really enjoyed FALLEN. I thought it was a really unique mixture of paranormal, setting and characters. What better place for fallen angels to hide than a school for delinquents? Ms. Kate does a great job at making the reader not sure of some of the characters intentions, especially the female characters of Gabbe and even Luce's friend, Arriane. The dilapidated conditions of Sword & Cross come to life on the page, especially during the Parents Weekend scene where Luce is seeing things through the eyes of her parents, as she's already gotten used to things in her short stay. The cemetery in the middle of the campus is just plain creepy. As is the fact that detention involved being there before dawn to clean off the statues. I really liked Luce and the rest of the characters, especially Penn. Every character has something different about them, including a secrets that seem to be revealed in due time. Filled with twists and turns, and the deep sense of foreboding as the shadows that follow Luce become darker and more frequent as she gets deeper into the mystery of why Daniel feels so familiar and why it seems like she's able to interact with the shadows more. With an ending that literally had my jaw dropping with a couple dark surprises, FALLEN has quickly become one of my favorite reads of the year. I cannot wait to read the second in the series and see where Ms. Kate takes these characters next. Wherever it is, I doubt it'll be boring.

Lauren Kate recently finished her M.A. in Creative Writing at UC Davis, where she also teaches. She lives and writes in an old farm house in Winters, California.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
December 2009

POST GRAD by Emily Cassel

2010-01-05T16:55:00.000-08:00

POST GRAD

EMILY CASSEL
Women’s Fiction
St. Martin’s Griffin
ISBN# 978-0-312-59626-2
256 Pages
$13.99
Trade--Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Ryden Malby’s had her whole life planned out, do well in high school, get a great scholarship and graduate, thereby moving into the next phase of her life, a gorgeous place and her dream job at the city’s best publishing house. Graduating from college was one thing, but when her plans for her life are quickly disintegrating she’s forced to do the unthinkable—move back home with her parents, her crazy grandmother and strange little brother till she can find a job and figure out what to do with her life.

POST GRAD is a hilarious, entertaining read. There wasn’t a single chapter where I didn’t either laugh or lament the thought of having to eventually put the book down. I loved Ryden instantly, it’s hard to not like a girl who’s dealing with a family as crazy as hers, and her nemesis in Jessica Barde, the ‘perfect’ girl who seems to always show up when Ryden would least like her to, especially during one truly horrific moment when working at Luggage World. Her best friend Adam who’s hopelessly crushing on her. Ryden’s family is truly one of the best, most outrageous families I’ve ever come across. Her father is beyond hilarious and her grandmother is a scene stealer. It’s so hard to pick a scene to mention in the review, but the first one that pops to mind is when her grandmother takes them shopping for her own casket and the chaos that ensues. Ryden’s already embarrassed enough at times by her family, but to have her grandmother actually trying out the caskets is enough to give the poor girl a meltdown.

If you’re looking for a great read, POST GRAD is one book you should definitely pick up.

Check out the first chapter online at http://us.macmillan.com/postgrad.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
July 2009

FADE OUT (Morganville Vampires #7) by Rachel Caine

2010-01-05T16:50:00.000-08:00

FADE OUT (Morganville Vampires Book Seven)

RACHEL CAINE
Paranormal YA
NAL
ISBN# 978-0-451-22866-6
237 Pages
$6.99
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

With Bishop gone and Eve in the local production of 'A Streetcar Named Desire', things around Glass House are about as normal as they've been in a long time. But normal is short lived in Morganville, especially for Claire. She thinks there's something a little odd about Eve's sudden new BFF Kim and it's not just the fact that she hooked up with Shane in the past either, no there's something there that Claire just can't put her finger on. When Kim suddenly goes missing before a rehearsal of the play, Claire and friends can't believe what they uncover about Eve's supposed new friend.

Ms. Caine does a great job with FADE OUT, the seventh installment in this entertaining paranormal series. With Bishop gone in the last book, I wasn't quite sure what would happen next in Morganville with Amelie seemingly back in charge, but things just keep on escalating. When the truth about Kim is found out, suddenly Claire, Eve, Michael and Shane are forced to save her from the Vamps punishment, even if she may actually deserve what she could get. Even with that going on, Ada is still out for blood—namely Claire's—and she really will do anything to get rid of her, making things between the two reach a climatic and chilling head in FADE OUT, where Myrnin gets caught in the middle of deadly game Ada's playing. I never imagined a character who's usually nothing more than a computer generated image of her former self can be so evil and devious. I love how we see Myrnin evolving from his crazed character in the earlier books in the series, even if he still retains a bit of his dark side, which shows up here and there. What I like best about the Morganville series is what I love best about this book, things just keep getting more complicated and the unexpected keeps popping up around every corner. I can't wait to see what's in store for Claire in the next book!

Rachel Caine is the internationally bestselling author of thirty novels, including the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Morganville Vampires young adult series: Glass Houses, The Dead Girls’ Dance, Midnight Alley, Feast of Fools, Lord of Misrule, Carpe Corpus, and Fade Out, with five more to follow in 2009-2011. Visit her online at www.rachelcaine.com

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009

THE SPLENDOR FALLS by Rosemary Clement-Moore

2010-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

THE SPLENDOR FALLS
ROSEMARY CLEMENT-MOORE
Paranormal YA
Delacorte Books
ISBN# 978-0-385-73690-9
513 Pages
$17.99
Hardcover--Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Sylvie Davis' promising career as a ballet dancer is over before it really even has a chance to begin. Thanks to a fluke, she fell and broke her leg and is unable to dance again. To top things off, her mother just remarried and while her and the step-shrink go off on a honeymoon, Sylvie's been shipped south to visit a cousin of her father's she barely remembers meeting once to stay at a house she's never seen. But once she arrives in Alabama, Sylvie finds herself in what seems like a different world.

Cousin Paula's remodelling the family estate into a bed and breakfast, and the whole town seems to think she's something special just because she's a Davis, something she just doesn't understand at all. Add in the weird vibe she's getting from some of the locals, including Paula's business partner's daughter and the fact there's strange rumours about the house and things people have seen there, things maybe Sylvie's sorta seen for herself and things are way too complicated too quick for her liking.

One of the best things about Ms. Clement-Moore's writing is her characters. No two are ever alike, but they're as real as real can be. Sylvie is no exception to the rule and neither are those around her in Alabama. I especially loved the relationships between Sylvie and both Rhys, the mysterious stranger staying at the unfinished bed and breakfast with his father and Shawn Maddox, the local good boy, who seems to like Sylvie a little too much, too quickly. The house itself quickly becomes a character of its own, unfamiliar and at times slightly menacing, Sylvie isn't sure what to make of it—or Alabama as a whole. Her father never talked about the place, and maybe she can see why. But when she finds away to seek solace and time on her own, recreating what used to be a magical garden, the secrets of the past begin to be unleashed, something that puts her directly in danger.

THE SPLENDOR FALLS is one of my favorite reads of the year. Sylvie's a great character, I loved her voice, her weariness at where she was and what her future holds now that her dream of being a prima ballerina is shattered. Faced with that and what seems like an unpleasant stay in Alabama—Cousin Paula won't even let her take her beloved little dog up to her room, she soon finds herself involved in something more mysterious and supernatural than she'd ever expected. It all seems to start when she sneaks out with the dog to the back of the house and she sees a figure watching from one of the upstairs windows. But it's not Rhys or his father or even Cousin Paula. Who could it be? And what's their connection to the house? There were so many scenes I loved it's hard to pick one to highlight, but when Sylvie runs into Shawn in town and he takes her to the local coffee shop. All the locals are so excited to see the two of them together, Sylvie begins to wonder what exactly is going on.

Rosemary Clement-Moore lives and writes in Arlington, Texas. THE SPLENDOR FALLS is her fourth book for young readers. Visit Rosemary online at www.readrosemary.com

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009

ETERNAL CRAVING: GODS OF NIGHT 2 by Nina Bangs

2010-01-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

ETERNAL CRAVING: GODS OF NIGHT 2
NINA BANGS
Paranormal Romance
Dorchester Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sensual
ISBN# 978-0-8439-5793-8
308 pages
$7.99
Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Let’s meet out hero Al . That is the only name he knows. He is a man that seems to crave violence. He is a mystery that any woman would love to unravel but she would run screaming for her life when she did. He has all the urges of a savage beast and is only now learning to control them sometimes. Then he meets Jenna and all bets are off. He must have her but will she see the real him? And when she does will she run or give in to his eternal craving?

Now let’s meet our heroine Jenna Maloy. A young woman trying to find out the truth about her sister’s new family. But she is getting more then she bargained for. She is a young woman used to working hard not quite the smart one like her sister Kelly. But she is on a mission and nothing will stop her from finding the truth. Then she meets Al and her life is turned upside down, Al is the man of her dreams and her nightmares. Can she stay when she learns the truth?

This is a story of An Ancient Mayan prophecy from ages past, that tell of the end of the world. A group of men called the Eleven must fight Immortal Demons from hell that want to destroy the Human Race .Al a member of the Eleven and Jenna Maloy brought together by fate to fight back a group of Immortal to save a city and to save a soul Al’s But can Jenna accept Al’s savage nature and embrace his Eternal Craving?

I love this series. Ms. Bangs has again created a series filled with Hot Sexy Alpha males. And we would have it no other way. The character are amazing and seem to be filled with a life of there own, I am so overtaken by the depth of these characters, who would have thought I would cry over a Raptor. They make you want to hate there enemies right along with them. The characters in these books cry out for there own story. I cannot wait until the next book in this amazing series. I would recommend this book to any and all lovers of this genre.

If you would like to find out more about the amazing works of this author, she would love to hear from you. Please visit her website at www.ninabangs.com.

Melanie
Enchanting Reviews
May 2009

ETERNAL 1: ETERNAL EMBRACE by Ann Lory

2010-01-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

ETERNAL 1: ETERNAL EMBRACE
ANN LORY
Erotic Paranormal
Loose Id
Sensuality Rating: Smokin'
ISBN: 978-1-59632-352-0
188 pages
$6.99
Ebook - Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Let’s meet our hero Dimitri Alexios. He has become a recluse in his later years though others would not see him as old. You see he is Vampire though not of his choosing. He has learned not to kill. Even if Gabriella, the woman who turned him, always wants those she turned to be hers and hers alone. Then one night he meets a beautiful young woman named Cassie and both their lives are changed forever.

Now our heroine Cassie Stephens, A young woman raised in a small town from the Midwest. She sees her chance at a change in her life and continues to do the work she loves, being an archeologist. She has felt out of touch since she has come here but she will do what ever it takes to adjust. It seems as if her chance for change has come in the form of Dimitri Alexios.

This is a story of two people just wanting to find a place to belong. A man Dimitri Alexios who is not quite what he seems and a young woman Cassie Stephens trying to adjust to the big city. Then Cassie’s boss sends her to Dimitri’s home to look over his Ancient Greece collection and from the moment they meet their lives are changed forever for they have found each other at last but first they must fend off his creator the evil Gabriella. And she will use everything and anyone in her power to end their love.

I really loved this story. Once you started it you could not put it down. This story just pulled you in with it and you felt you were one of the characters. You cried when they did and were happy when they were. Ms Lory has a way with the written word that makes you unable to pull yourself away. Ms Lory’s stories have a magical quality about them and I only hope she continues writing for many years to come.

If you would like to learn more about Ann Lory and her Novels please visit http://www.annlory.com/.

Melanie
Enchanting Reviews
February 2009

WASSAIL WOES by Diane Taylor

2010-01-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

WASSAIL WOES
DIANE TAYLOR
Fantasy
Firedrakes Weyr
Sensuality Rating: E-rotic
ISBN# 978-0-9814819-0-6 (10) 0-9814819-0-6
31 pages
$5.99
eBook - Available now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Kris Odinson, aka Odin, is from Valhalla and has come to be with Jeri for the Yule. Kris is a hot hunky god of a man, and he’s hot for Jeri.

Jeri Butler is preparing for the Yule and her upcoming festivities. She a bit lonely this year, and would love to spend the holidays with a gorgeous man’s arms around her.

This is a light fun holiday story. It is filled with magical characters, hot sex, and plenty of wassail.
This is the second book from Ms. Taylor that I have read, and just like the first book, this one is very good. I thought her characters were vivid and striking. Kris Odinson, oh my goodness, what a total hottie! This cute tale bought me right into the yuletide spirit. This story is full of magic and fantastic happenings. It was definitely a fun read.

Ms. Taylor loves to use her imagination. She has short stories published on an adult oriented website, and SHADOW DEMON was her first published book. She would love to hear from you and you can reach her at dianet_write@yahoo.com.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2008

GARDEN MAGIC by Beth Caudill

2010-01-05T14:12:00.000-08:00

GARDEN MAGIC
BETH CAUDILL
The Wild Rose Press
Rosette/sensual
ISBN# N/A
33 pages
Ebook—Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Melinda Conley was the last of three magical sisters to marry. After failing to find a mate in the supernatural community, she falls for a mortal. So what happens when her magic garden says he's not her one true love?

If it had not been for the fact that this was an eBook and on a much needed computer I would have thrown it against the wall because of her fiancé Eric. Not even a fairy tale woman deserves that kind of treatment. If I had been her I would have broken the rules just that once and used my magic to turn him into something no one would have recognized. But instead of doing something bad to them when she catches them in the act of having sex, she does something for the woman her fiancé is cheating on her with. Imagine that! Had the book been longer it would not have surprised me if her fiancé had intentions of moving his lover into Melinda’s home.
It’s good to see a book about magic that the mage in it uses her skills for good instead of bad.

Melinda is a kind sweet hearted woman. She holds strong to her true self and her magic. I really don’t know what would be more devastating for a woman as gentle as her, finding her fiancé having sex with his secretary or his ill intentions for her home and possessions. That is surely a hard way to find out the man you’re going to marry never loved you in the first place. But she is soon drawn in to the attraction of Rendell. Once again, Ms. Caudill shows her heart, compassion, and soul in her work.

Rendell is her fiancé’s partner in the company they work for. He is a compassionate man with a bit heart. He’s sympathetic and gentle. He shows all the qualities of being the perfect man for any woman. He is also magical and ends up being her true love.

Ms. Caudill grew up in West Virginia but now resides in North Carolina with her husband and two children. She has a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and previously worked as a quality assurance computer software tester. Reading has been her favorite activity for as long as she can remember and her home has more books than shelves to store them. While being a fulltime parent, she is pursuing a writing career. Recently she joined Romance Writers of America and the RWA chapter Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.

Visit Beth's website at www.bethcaudill.net.

Angel
Enchanting Reviews
August 2009

OUTRAGEOUS BEHAVIOR by Amy Corwin

2010-01-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

OUTRAGEOUS BEHAVIOR
AMY CORWIN
Historical Romance
Wild Rose Press
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN# N/A
29 pages
$2.00
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Lord Warnock is quite pleasing to the eye with a charming personality to match. If that doesn’t make him marketable, his title of Earl certainly does. Although he visits London, he isn’t a fan of the hustle and bustle of the city, instead preferring to spend his off Season time out in the country. With a quick wit and a mysterious demeanor, Warnock became the perfect hero to this short and lovely story.

Hoping to catch Lord Warnock’s eye, Laura Brownwell follows her parents to events throughout the Season. Gradually her eye becomes drawn to Lord Warnock more and more often. With a fluttering heart when he draws near and a sinking one when he walks the other way, Laura’s maiden spirit seems to focus on Lord Warnock. If it weren’t for the etiquette of the time dismissing a woman as nothing more than a silent shadow and a greasy fortune hunter out to win her hand in marriage, Laura could be on the road to utter Warnock bliss.

OUTRAGEOUS BEHAVIOR was the cute tale of what happens when a woman throws off the cloak of propriety and does what is necessary to ensure her future. Caught in a struggle between gaining a good life and evading the attentions of her fortune hunter suitor, Laura’s behavior is often humorous. Will she live her life as the wife of the insincere suitor, or will she gain the freedom to live her life in the happiness that she so desperately desires?

I have to say, OUTRAGEOUS BEHAVIOR was quite a nice book for how short it was. As it is only 29 pages, it could have been easy for Corwin to write a rushed story that left out key elements. Instead, she kept the story pertinent to the length and accommodated accordingly. OUTRAGEOUS BEHAVIOR doesn’t cover a large chunk of time, but the time that it does cover is well developed and full of tension.

The romance between our hero and heroine was wonderful and fit well with the length of the story. We didn’t get a full blown, passionate affair; instead, we got just a hint of magic and a touch of what the future for Catherine and Lord Warnock might hold. Along with the great character development, I think that Ms. Corwin’s writing really made this story a success.

Ms. Corwin writes Contemporary Paranormals and Regency Historicals. She can be found online at http://www.amycorwin.com/.

Cinnamon Brown
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2009

CHASIN’ MASON by Stacey Joy Netzel

2010-01-05T13:07:00.000-08:00

CHASIN’ MASON
STACEY JOY NETZEL
Contemporary
Wild Rose Press
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN# 1-601-387-5 (print)
188 pages
$4.50
E-Book - Available now

Rating: 4 1/2 Enchantments

Tripp had a hard time understanding why his dad would believe the lies of his girlfriends’ daughter and not his own son. Not wanting to stick around anymore he left home at an early age and had to grow up quickly to survive.

Reggie, who had to follow her money hungry mom go from boyfriend to boyfriend, had only really wanted one thing in life. She just wanted to actually belong some where, to belong to a family.

After being away from home for 11 years Tripp returns home for his dad’s funeral. Even after all these years Tripp still holds a very bitter grudge against Reggie for breaking up his family. After all these years Reggie still believes she did the right thing by setting Tripp’s dad’s prized horse free but she feels terrible for putting a wedge between the two men. After the will is read to both Tripp and Reggie’s surprise there is an extra stipulation Tripp’s dad added. In order for the ranch to stay in the family and not given away, they must work together and bring back Mason’s Gold to the ranch. They both have to come to terms from mistakes from the past but what they both didn’t expect is the passion and also the friendship that grows on their journey.

What a truly enjoyable book. Both Tripp’s and Reggie’s struggles were clearly described. At first I really didn’t like Reggie, she was a bit too selfish for me but more into the book I got to understand her character more and I couldn’t help but hope for the best for both Reggie and Tripp.

Mrs. Netzel presently lives in Wisconsin with her family. You can check out her website at www.staceyjoynetzel.com.

Kim Graham
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2009

FROM LATTE TO LOVE by Amber Polo

2010-01-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

FROM LATTE TO LOVE
AMBER POLO
Sweet Contemporary
The Wild Rose Press
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN# n/a
23 pages
$1.50
eBook Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Sandy-haired, blue-eyed Brian is a computer game designer with a yen to finish a science fiction novel he calls “Star Master of the Universe.” He seeks solitude and inspiration at the local Starbucks, but something… or someone interferes with his ability to concentrate. He doesn’t know her name but she looks pretty hot behind that pink laptop. It’s hard to concentrate on his alpha male, Duke Starmaster, when the scenery is so distracting.

High school poetry teacher Elaine spends her Saturday morning at the local coffee shop working on “Magic Queen of Peaceful Meadows.” Her mind wanders to a future book signing and what she might wear, but she’s stalled with how to proceed with her heroine, Tranquility. Her missing muse may be more interested in the guy with the red laptop across the room than in finishing the third chapter.

When two authors cast stolen glances at one another while trying to finish their novels, sparks fly. Brian finally gets the nerve to speak to Elaine and is amazed to discover she’s an author, too. Her email address written on a napkin leads to a date where he passes her romantic test with flying colors. Another date, collaboration, and a melding of the minds result in a pleasant ending.

I really liked the way Ms. Polo combined a romance within a romance. Not only did I get to experience the emotions of her hero and heroine, I also got a glimpse into the stories they worked on and the romance flourishing there. This was a great touch and a refreshing concept. If you’re looking for a short, entertaining read, this may be it.

Ms. Polo claims to weave reading and writing with relaxation techniques. Her background as an English major, librarian and a yoga instructor certainly meet the requirements, so I have no reason to doubt her. If you want to find out more, check out her website at: http://amberpolo.com.

Brett Scott
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2008

DANGER'S KISS by Sarah McKerrigan

2010-01-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

DANGER'S KISS
SARAH McKERRIGAN
Historical Romance – Medieval
Grand Central Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 0-446-61887-X
$6.99
359 pages
Paperback - Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Desiree of Canterbury is an accomplished thief who meets her match in the most fearsome lawman Nicholas Grimshaw. Desiree wants retaliation for the unfair execution of her elderly mentor, and Nicholas is the only person who can help her. Nicholas takes Desiree into his household, hoping for an amiable housekeeper, but instead gets a lush, intelligent woman, keen on upsetting his orderly life. An enemy lurks near, endangering their lives, can they overcome the ruthless killer and seek a future together?

The one thing that I absolutely loved about this book, is that it took place in Medieval England, and neither of the main characters were aristocrats! I loved the change of pace, a chance to look into the lesser classes. I loved how nobody inherited a great sum nor a title throughout the whole book. That probably sounds really silly, but in an industry over-saturated with Dukes, Earls, and anybody else in between, it's refreshing to not have any of that. To look into the lives of the common class.

Nicholas was gruff and prickly, but really opened up to Desiree, a woman who'd grown up on the streets, but was protected from the basest acts. Desiree was a criminal who had a difficult time breaking old habits, but Nicholas was patient in his ability to handle her. It was funny watching Nicholas get used to having a woman in his household. He was a bachelor and a loner that never even contemplated being with someone else, so Desiree really spun his world around. They had a unique and complicated bond, but they were able to overcome their differences to create and intriguing couple. I found them fascinating. Neither of them were accepted by society, but they weren't worried about that either. They made a life and relationship work for them. I look forward to finding more books by Ms. McKerrigan.

Under the nom de plume of Sarah McKerrigan, Glynnis Campbell has written three medieval romance novels for Warner Books featuring kick-ass warrior wenches: LADY DANGER, CAPTIVE HEART, and KNIGHT’S PRIZE. When she isn’t writing historical romance, she’s the voice of several cartoon characters, the wife of a rock star, and the mother of two nerds.

If you’re intrigued by Sarah, check out her or her evil twin:
www.sarahmckerrigan.com, www.glynnis.net and www.glynniscampbell.com.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviewer
July 2009

LONE STAR SURRENDER by Lisa Renee Jones

2010-01-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

LONE STAR SURRENDER
LISA RENEE JONES
Contemporary
Harlequin Blaze
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN #978-0-373-79446-1
$4.99
211 Pages
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Constantine Vega has been in deep undercover for three long years, infiltrating the drug world to bring down the top drug lord. The time has come to bring him down, putting him away for good. Constantine is set to be the star witness, if he can make it to the stand alive.

Nicole Ward has been burned badly, and not just by love. She began her career as an attorney for her father's firm, one of the best, but when she gets a convicted killer off, only to have him murder another victim, she does what she can to salve her guilt, by quitting her high-paying job to work for the U.S. Attorney. She is determined to put Alvarez away for life. When she agrees to meet her witness, Constantine, she knows it's dangerous, but she never expects to be on the run with him.

LONE STAR SURRENDER was a fast-paced, action packed story, that kept me on my toes while I followed Constantine and Nicole through Texas, as they stayed one-step ahead of their pursuers. The heat that flared between them kept my pages smoking, they allowed their passions to reign over them, though not forgetting the reason they were brought together. I felt a connection to them each right from the start, they were both well thought out characters, each with their own flaws, but able to come together as a perfect pair. I loved how while they ran, they let themselves enjoy the moment, not knowing where it would lead them. It gave them a bit of relief. I liked seeing Constantine and Nicole overcome their fears and grow together as a couple.

Ms. Jones writes both contemporary and paranormal romance with Harlequin, Kensington, Berkley and Pocket. She has also published scorching hot romances with Ellora's Cave. Soon she will be writing for Grand Central Publishing under the pseudonym, Faith Winter.

You can find out more at: www.lisareneejones.com.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
January 2009

FOURTY FOUR SUMMERS POETRY COLLECTION by Stephen J. Martin

2010-01-05T12:52:00.000-08:00

FOURTY FOUR SUMMERS POETRY COLLECTION
STEPHEN J. MARTIN
Poetry
Wild Child Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN# N/A
37 pages
$3.25
Ebook - Available May 2008

Rating: 4 Enchantments

This is a compilation of forty-four poems that capture different aspects of human life. It is beautiful, picturesque, and romantic. I loved each section equally, but I would have to say, the part about children was my favorite. It beautifully painted childhood into a masterpiece of the delightful, the bright and the bouncy!! Remembrance, wow, what a way to colour aging, loss and death. Thank you Mr. Martin, this was truly lovely. If you enjoy beautiful poetry, this is a must read!!

The early death of his parents catapulted the author into touch with his emotions at a young age. Sincerity being the offspring of great emotion, Mr. Martin went on to easily make friends everywhere he went. Married at a young age, he quickly learned the joys of parenting. Although a divorce knocked him into depression, a love affair with a healing woman revealed to him that great sorrow can be turned into great art. Teaching himself to capture his emotions with paper and pen, he learned quickly the restorative powers that are unleashed when appreciating the
colors of a flower, the music of a violin, and the touch of a woman's smile.

Here are a few links to contact the author:
http://www.myspace.com/pointedshoe
http://www.pointedshoe.com/
http://www.stephenjmartin.com/

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
November 2008

SECRET CONFESSIONS : BOOK 2 by Bethany Michaels

2010-01-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

SECRET CONFESSIONS: BOOK 2
BETHANY MICHAELS
Historical Erotica
Red Sage Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN# 1-60310-258-2
44 pages
$ 2.99
eBook - Available

Rating: 3 Enchantments
Amelia is urgently searching for her journal. Gossip is appearing in the newspapers. She is desperate to stem the tide of the rumors and protect her family’s reputation, especially the marriage prospects of her niece, Charlotte. She also has to contend with her desire for Grayson.
Grayson is still trying to find the man who stole Amelia's journal. He also has a newfound desire for Amelia, which she definitely reciprocates. They, however, cannot act on their desires because he is her dead husband’s cousin, also because her reputation has already been tarnished by her stolen journal. In order for her niece to marry a man of consequence, her family has to have a good reputation, and a public affair between Amelia and Grayson would damage her chances.
I really loved the second book. It was a great mixture of scandal, romantic tension, and sexual interludes. I loved the tension between Amelia and Grayson. I kept hoping for them to finally forget their obligations and reservations and just go for it. It was unresolved sexual tension to the tenth degree. My favorite part of Book 2 is Amelia’s encounter Lachlan McGregor, the stable keeper who Amelia had a fling with when she was younger and rekindles her flame when she becomes a widow. I loved his initial rejection of Amelia and the almost power struggle between them because it reminds me of the tension that exists in novels like Wuthering Heights where there is a huge class difference between the lovers. I became really curious about him. He was that rough and abrasive character that I love. He kind of reminded me a bit of Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights because he was poor and down on his luck. I hope he returns to the story somehow. I almost like him better than Grayson because he has so much depth to him. I also like it much more when my heroes in novels are rougher around the edges. I can’t wait to see what happens in Book 3.
Ms. Michaels grew up in an Indiana farm town. This small town is where her love of reading and writing took hold. She recently moved to Nashville with her husband and four small children. She misses the quiet of the country but is currently acclimating to the hustle and bustle of city life. Please go to eRedSage.com to find more books.

Grace Loiacono
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
April 2009

ONE DANGEROUS WOMAN by Marc Jarrod

2010-01-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

ONE DANGEROUS WOMAN
MARC JARROD
Romance/Paranormal
eXtasy Books
Sensuality Rating: 4 Flames
ISBN# 978-1-55487-128-5
241 pages
$4.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Dexter DeWitt is a demon in hell who is in love with Charlie Jackson, a mortal on earth. Dexter knew with Charlie’s occupation as a political assassin she would eventually join him in Hell and he’d have her for eternity.

Charlotte Jackson, AKA Charlie, is an ex-marine turned political assassin. She grew very wealthy and very confident because of her kills. It was the perfect job, until one day she missed the mark and killed a beautiful six-year-old little girl. Her perfect job sent her into a downward spiral until Dexter DeWitt was sent up to escort her to Hell, right before she is about to commit suicide.

This is a marvelous story combining the Hades underworld, and the more sinister workings of earth above. A demon, Dexter DeWitt watched from the pit as the love of his life murdered evil dictators on earth. He knew she would be joining him in Hell, because everyone who takes a life spends eternity in Hades. Satan also has plans, much to Dexter’s dismay. He plans to take Charlie as his bride, and there’s nothing Dexter can do about it—unless of course Charlie repents from her misdeeds. Still guilt-ridden because of the botched hit, Charlie decides she can’t live with herself anymore. When Satan himself sends Dexter to earth to escort Charlie to Hell, right after she completes her jump from the Golden Gate Bridge, Dexter, going against everything he stands for as a demon, not only talks her out of jumping but does everything in his power to persuade her to repent. In other words, if he can’t have her, neither will Satan. There is a twist in the end that results in a very HEA.

Mr. Jarrod did an awesome job creating a fascinating tale, and drawing in both the earthly and the spiritual aspects that surround every human. I enjoyed immensely the relationship Mr. Jarrod painted on the canvas of the unbelievable. The imagery was phenomenal. In all honesty, I didn’t see how any author could take the spiritual and the earthly, and create a painting of true love and a happy ever after. But Mr. Jarrod succeeded. Not only did he succeed, but he kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how everything was going to work out. Thank you Mr. Jarrod for a very intriguing read. I consider it a priviledge to review this book. If you’re looking for a good story about angels and demons, this is a must read. I loved it!

Born in Italy, he came to America when he was six years old and now lives in St. Louis, Missouri. By day, he works for a major delivery company. By night, you can reach him at tonyburdulis@yahoo.com.

Desiree de Cleves
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
October 2008

CURSES by Cindy Spencer Pape

2010-01-03T14:52:00.000-08:00

CURSES
CINDY SPENCER PAPE
Paranormal Romance
The Wild Rose Press
Sensuality Rating: Hot
ISBN# 1-60154-151-1
300 pages
$6.00
eBook and Print - Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

CURSES is a wonderful story with a great set of characters. Jonas Pierce is your tall, dark, and deliciously handsome hero. Oh yes, he also just happens to be a werewolf. Terrified of bringing his dark past into the present, Jonas attempts to detach himself from his more beastly nature as best he can. He spends the majority of his time instead writing as the world famous author, J.P. Wolfe. Hounded by a reporter that has discovered his real name and may be on to his secret, Jonas attempts to disappear to the upper peninsula of Michigan for some much needed quiet time to focus on his current work in progress. It’s no coincidence that he chooses Whispering Pines to escape. The next novel he is planning is a fiction novel surrounding witches and witchcraft. What he’ll find however, is much more than the local resident witch.

Melissa MacRae, our beautiful and spunky heroine is much more than just the innkeeper of Whispering Pines. She is also a witch, specializing in healing the people and animals around her. Burdened by a centuries old family curse, Mel is terrified of love and has avoided men as much as possible. When her powers start to dwindle and she can no longer help the living things to thrive around her, Mel discovers that a man might just be the thing she needs to jump-start her powers back into action. The arrival of the tempting Jonas Pierce brings up much more than long dormant hormones, however. Trouble starts to brew at Whispering Pines and it will be up to Mel to discover who or what is the cause.

CURSES has a great storyline mixed in with touching and often passionate romance. Whispering Pines has been passed down from daughter to daughter as each woman tries and fails to defeat the family curse. Unable to keep a man, each woman is destined to bear one daughter to continue carrying on the MacRae curse. Set atop a sacred and magical spot, Whispering Pines is more than a mystical boon to the MacRae witches; it is also prime land for the nearby Talcott Resort. Stuck between a fight to keep the Talcotts from running her off her property and her strange attraction to Jonas, Mel fights to protect her home and her heart.

I absolutely loved the story within CURSES. I found Jonas to be a refreshing hero. There are so many bad boy characters out there that it was nice to actually get a gentleman for a change. Don’t get me wrong, the bad boy fiend is still quite hot, but the strong, shape-shifting, caring protector leaves the heart fluttering warmly. Being caring doesn’t mean that Jonas is any less passionate, however. Ms. Pape instills quite a bit of passion into her story, making for some very steamy scenes. Often, hardly anything more than a look or a small touch occurs and yet she leaves us with our hearts pounding, palms sweating and general temperatures soaring through the roof.

The main story of CURSES involves Jonas’s background, Mel’s family curse and the Talcotts' incessant push to take over her land. The combination of these three really made for a detailed and complex story. I highly enjoyed the depth that this added to the book. I’m a huge fan of romance so I typically can find something enjoyable out of any romance novel, but in CURSES, Ms. Pape separated the romance with actions of mystery, suspense and adventure. These acted like accents of darkness to the brightness that made up the heat between Mel and Jonas. It gave us a break from the lust to explore something new and ensured that the interactions between Mel and Jonas always got the blood pumping.

Parts of the story were predictable but let me say that this in no way made it any less enjoyable. Even though I could see where a scene or two was going to go, the overall plot of the book was full of twists and turns. The story progressed well with the words flowing nicely across the pages. The last few pages of the story were a surprise for me and made for a great ending to a wonderful book. CURSES is one of those stories going to be great for a rainy afternoon. Even though I already know what happens at the end of the story, it is the story itself and the relationships that Ms. Pape creates that makes CURSES so enjoyable.

Cindy Spencer Pape is the author of many beautifully romantic and delicious erotic books ranging from Western to Paranormal to Contemporary. She can be found online at http://www.cindyspencerpape.com/.

Cinnamon
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
July 2009

BOUND BY MELODY by Hunter Raines

2010-01-03T14:48:00.000-08:00

BOUND BY MELODY
HUNTER RAINES
m/m romance
Changeling Press
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN# 978-1-59596-850-0
70 pages
$4.49
Ebook- Available now

Rating:4 Enchantments

Finding an eviction notice on his apartment door, the night after the most erotic dream he’d ever had, Gilrain, a disinherited royal Helir Elf, is forced to find a new home. Soon after finding his new home, he is swept up by an Elf binding melody played to create a bond that between him and Arion, a faer Elf. He soon learns how much Arion needs his help in controlling his magic.

After learning about each others past, and an unexpected rejection, Gilrain fights for the love they share with a quick witted, cunning and tenderness that shows that true feelings are made not by magic but with the heart, and that they appear unexpectedly.

BOUND BY MELODY enlightens the reader on the dazzling side of male relationships. This story shows that a night spent with someone can lead to love at first touch. Sexually explicit scenes hypnotize you with enticing characters and mesmerizing details that you the reader will find hard to put down. With the use of magic and bursts of sensual scenes it is an enthralling love/lust story held between two Elf men.

Ms. Raines delves into the realm of male-on-male love with an enlightening & fresh way, with her deep and strikingly-gorgeous men. You can find more of her well written work at www.hunterraines.com or reach her more directly at hrainesauthor@gmail.com.

Cathleen Y.
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
March 2009

COFFEE AND LOVE TO GO by Christine Columbus

2009-12-30T17:58:00.000-08:00

COFFEE AND LOVE TO GO
CHRISTINE COLUMBUS
Sweet Contemporary
The Wild Rose Press
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN: N/A
11 pages
$1.50
eBook Available now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Dan is newly divorced and trying to get on with his life. His co-workers and friends all seem to want to pair him up with someone. When he spies a gorgeous creature at the local coffee house, he finally sees a reason to appreciate that his ex left him the lawn mower and took all the kitchen appliances. Otherwise, he’d never have seen Missy.

Missy stops in Fresh Brew every day for her morning fix. There’s a certain hunk that catches her eye, but she can’t find the nerve to approach him. Rather than try, she jumps in her yellow jeep and drives away, regretting she didn’t even get his name.

Missy calls a local radio advice program and solicits opinions on whether or not a woman should be the one to approach a handsome man. The consensus is overwhelmingly yes. Dan just happens to be listening and recognizes her voice. Could she be talking about him? He’s been having the same feelings about her, and doubting someone as beautiful could be interested in him. Although resolved to find out, everything he tries to say comes out wrong, making him feel like the idiot he believes he is. Finally he turns to the radio show for advice of his own.

Ms. Columbus has penned a quirky little story that makes you smile. Dan and Missy both want the other to make the first move, but neither have the courage. I wondered who would finally make the first move, and kept reading to find out. I guess you can’t take the editor out of some of us, and I do wish someone would have caught ‘shinny’ and made it ‘shinny.’ A minor complaint for such a sweet contemporary story. I definitely would read more of Ms. Columbus’ work.

If you’d like to find out more about the author, you can find her blog at http://christinecolumbus.blogspot.com An RWA member, she’s multi-published but still has many stories to tell about the fictional men in her life.

Brett Scott
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2008

GARDEN MAGIC by Beth Caudill

2009-12-30T17:44:00.000-08:00

GARDEN MAGIC
BETH CAUDILL
The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Rosette/sensual
ISBN# None
33 Pages
EBook—Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Melinda Conley was the last of three magical sisters to marry. After failing to find a mate in the supernatural community, she falls for a mortal. So what happens when her magic garden says he's not her one true love?

If it had not been for the fact that this was an EBook and on a much needed computer I would have thrown it against the wall because of her fiancé Eric. Not even a fairy tale woman deserves that kind of treatment. If I had been her I would have broken the rules just that once and used my magic to turn him into something no one would have recognized. But instead of doing something bad to them when she catches them in the act of having sex, she does something for the woman her fiancé is cheating on her with. Imagine that! Had the book been longer it would not have surprised me if her fiancé had intentions of moving his lover into Melinda’s home.
It’s good to see a book about magic that the mage in it uses her skills for good instead of bad.

Melinda is a kind sweet hearted woman. She holds strong to her true self and her magic. I really don’t know what would be more devastating for a woman as gentle as her, finding her fiancé having sex with his secretary or his ill intentions for her home and possessions. That is surely a hard way to find out the man you’re going to marry never loved you in the first place. But she is soon drawn in to the attraction of Rendell. Once again, Ms. Caudill shows her heart, compassion, and soul in her work.
Rendell is her fiancé’s partner in the company they work for. He is a compassionate man with a bit heart. He’s sympathetic and gentle. He shows all the qualities of being the perfect man for any woman. He is also magical and ends up being her true love.

Beth grew up in West Virginia but now resides in North Carolina with her husband and two children. She has a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and previously worked as a quality assurance computer software tester. Reading has been her favorite activity for as long as she can remember and her home has more books than shelves to store them. While being a fulltime parent, she is pursuing a writing career. Recently she joined Romance Writers of America and the RWA chapter Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.
Visit Beth's website at www.bethcaudill.net

Angel
Enchanting Reviews
August 2009

SEVEN NIGHTS OF SIN by Lacey Alexander

2009-12-30T17:32:00.000-08:00

SEVEN NIGHTS OF SIN
LACEY ALEXANDER
Contemporary - Erotica
Heat
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN #978-0-451-22314-2
$14.00
281 pages
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Brenna Cayton has no desire to have a man in her life, having been burned by her ex, she is just fine flying solo, or so she keeps telling herself. When her boss offers her a promotion to replace the current talent scout, she all but jumps at the chance to move up. Traveling to Vegas to learn the ropes of the music industry from the best, Damon Andros, who ignites a fire she cannot resist, hoping not to get burned by her own guilt.

Damon Andros is the hottest man in the music industry, he is known for his knack signing the hottest new acts in music, while enjoying life to the fullest. Such a lifestyle is making him more of a liability for the company than what his boss is willing to put up with. When he is asked to train Brenna, he agrees to take her under his wing.

Soon both Brenna and Damon cave to the undeniably hot passion which has flared between them. They are determined to fulfill their wildest fantasies in their seven sensual nights together. What will happen once Damon learns of her deception?

----

SEVEN NIGHTS OF SIN is a combustible tale of searing passion. The chemistry between Brenna and Damon scorches the pages; this tale is so hot that you will need a fan to cool you down. I loved Brenna's vulnerability, and watching her struggle to be open with her desires with Damon. And you can't help but fall in love with Damon, as you see him for the man he is. He is such a sweetheart! I loved following them along as they explored and indulged in their fantasies. More than the sexual chemistry between Brenna and Damon, I loved the emotional journey they traveled, I just wanted to cry when Damon discovered Brenna's betrayal, but was well satisfied how everything was worked out.

To learn more about Lacey Alexander and her entertaining books, please visit her on the web at: http://www.laceyalexander.net/

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
December 2008

SEDUCE ME IN SHADOW by Shayla Black

2009-12-30T17:12:00.000-08:00

SEDUCE ME IN SHADOW - Doomsday Bretheren #2
SHAYLA BLACK
Paranormal Romance
Pocket Books
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN #978-1416578444
226 pages

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Caden is desperate to do whatever it takes to make sure his brother lives, even if it means having to involve himself in the magic world. He’d made a sworn oath that he would never have anything to do with magic or the people who are involved in it., but he finds himself in over his head as his own transition is coming on and the saucy reporter he’s trying to stop from printing the wrong information.

Sidney has always felt alone in her life because she chose to be a reporter. Reporting the paranormal activity is pushing her into a danger zone. When she’s given a magic book to make wishes with she gets more than she bargained for, Cade.

Caden isn’t your normal romance novel man and I award Ms. Black for that. It was a very refreshing change from the perfect man. I could relate to this man although I’m female. He’s been scared, but has his pride. His desire for Sidney is overwhelming. Caden is the kind of man I actually dream of. He’s sensitive and sexy.
---
The scarred scared man becomes the hero in the end. The tension between Sydney and Cade will forever haunt my mind no matter how much I read. The saucy way Sidney behaves gives the book something to smile about. I love how she stood up for herself against Cade over the news reporting for the mage kind. It shows as much as tells the strong character of the woman. Ms. Black leaves plenty of room for another book in the series.

SHAYLA BLACK is the nationally bestselling author of more than twenty sizzling contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances, including the Doomsday Brethren novels Tempt Me with Darkness and Possess Me at Midnight. Her novel Decadent was nominated for Best Erotic Romance of 2007 by Romantic Times. She lives in Texas with her family.

Visit her website at www.shaylablack.com.

Angel
Enchanting Reviews
November 2009

EXTREMELY HOT by Jenninfer Apodaca

2009-12-24T12:35:00.000-08:00

EXTREMELY HOT
JENNIFER APODACA
Romantic Suspense
Kensington Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sensual
ISBN# 13: 978-0-7582-1451-5
10: 0-7582-1451-0
314 pages
$14.00
Print - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Luke Sterling, also known as the Urban Legend, is a gorgeous, hunky ex-military man with a past, and unsure about a future until he encounters Ivy York.

Ivy York is a radio talk show host for the Sex Hex show. She helps women protect themselves and their finances from men who are looking for a free ride

This is a romantic thriller packed with suspense as several people, including Luke and Ivy, search for two stolen ancient jade fertility and virility statues.

This story was fabulous, and the ending made me cry, happy tears no less. Ms. Apodaca, you did a marvelous job weaving the mystery and suspense beautifully throughout this story. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the read, and just when I thought it was going one way, it went another. I loved the story, especially the ending! Great work!! If you like romance, mystery, and suspense, this is a must read, It’s marvelous!

This author went from suburban soccer mom to mystery writer when she discovered how much fun it was to kill off people in her books. Embracing her new interest in murder, she enjoys combining humor, murder and mystery into hot romances. Please visit her website at www.jenniferapodaca.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

CELTIC LOVE KNOTS VOL 8: SANDS OF TIME & TURNING BACK TIME by Michelle Houston

2009-12-07T17:29:00.000-08:00

CELTIC LOVE KNOTS VOL 8: SANDS OF TIME & TURNING BACK TIME
MICHELLE HOUSTON
Torrid Romance Paranormal
Whiskey Creek Press Torrid
Sensuality Rating - Sensual
ISBN# 978-1-60313-026-4
76 Pages
$3.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

SANDS OF TIME:
Ciaran is a Cait Sith, a shape-shifter who has known for ten years that Nicole Jefferies is his mate. Nicole Jefferies is a young woman diagnosed with terminal cancer, and has decided to spend her last days traveling the world. She starts her travels in Scotland, where she meets Ciaran.

This is a sweet love story that invites fantasy, as well as mortality, into the gathering of life.
This story was excellent. Beautiful word pictures painted on a lovely canvas. I was immediately drawn into the fantasy. I wish it were longer. Great job, Ms. Houston.

TURNING BACK TIME:
Julie, Nicole Jefferies’ long-time friend, has just heard that Nicole is dead, but she doesn’t believe it, she has to see the body for herself.
Roarke is a shape-shifting Scot, who knows that Julie is his mate, but can she accept that fact? Only time will tell.

This love story accompanies SANDS OF TIME, and it too is excellent. I loved both stories, although I wished they were longer. If you love fantasy and true love, this book is a must buy.

Michelle Houston has been writing erotica/erotic romance since 1995, and a member of The Erotic Readers & Writers Association since early 2002. Recently joining Sexy Authors With Attitude, she’s now their webmistress. You can reach Michelle at www.eroticpen.net or www.sexyauthorswithattitude.com

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

BEYOND THE VALLEY by Destiny Blaine

2009-12-07T17:27:00.000-08:00

BEYOND THE VALLEY
DESTINY BLAINE
Romance/Western/Contemporary
eXtasy Books
Sensuality Rating: 4 Flames
ISBN# 978-1-55487-038-7
86 pages
$3.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Jonathan Woodwine is a thirty-six year old, hunky, unmarried cowboy, who was intrigued watching Victoria break a horse.

Victoria is a gorgeous nineteen-year-old with a tragic past, and unsure where her future leads.

This is a love story where two people come together, one wearing a chip on her shoulder, and the other not looking for a mate, and create a beautiful relationship.

This is a quick, easy read with a bit of mystery as you try to figure out why the heroine has a chip on her shoulder. I loved the romantic, happily-ever-after ending. Great job Ms. Blaine, very nice.

Ms. Blaine is an erotic romance author who writes in various genres. Visit her website at www.destinyblaine.com for more information.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

A FEW MILES MORE by Penny Dawn

2009-12-07T17:25:00.000-08:00

A FEW MILES MORE
PENNY DAWN
Romance/ M/F/M/F Ménage
Amber Quill Press
Sensuality Rating: Erotic
ISBN-13: 978-1-60272-168-5
122 pages
$5.00
eBook/Print - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Miles and Brighton McClintock, gorgeous and estranged identical twins, renew their relationship on a cross-country trip with their girlfriends.

Cherry, Brighton’s girlfriend and Joanna, Miles’ girlfriend, meet each other and bring their boyfriends back together in the way identical twins should be together.

This is a cute romance where a family is brought back together, through several layers of hurt and betrayal, out of their love for one of their sisters.

This was a soft romance, very enjoyable. Ms. Dawn beautifully covered some sensitive relationship issues, weaving them intricately with family life, and created a very enjoyable read. There is a M/F/M/F ménage, as well as containing several enjoyable, explicit, sex scenes. If you enjoy ménage and watching people successfully work through relationship issues, you’ll love this story.

When she isn’t writing, Ms. Dawn enjoys tap, ballet, and jazz dance, physical fitness, and renovating her 1906 Victorian Lady. Drop by her website www.pennydawn.com to discuss all things decadent. If you wish to contact Ms. Dawn, please drop her a line, or request an invitation to join Penny Dawn’s Romance…with a Passion! at penny_dawn1111@yahoo.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

WHEN DREAMS COME TRUE by Pat Cromwell

2009-12-07T17:23:00.000-08:00

WHEN DREAMS COME TRUE
PAT CROMWELL
Red Rose Publishing
Bi-Racial Romance
Sensuality Rating: Sensual
ISBN# 978-1-60435-129-3
1-60435-129-2
156 pages
$3.99
eBook - Available

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Kenneth Ingram, a white interim professor working at Franklin College, is instantly attracted to a young Black woman he see while out walking one day. He knows in an instant that she is destined to be his mate. For Kenneth, it is love at first sight.

Unfortunately, the young woman, Chris, turns out to be one of Professor Ingram’s students. After ending an abusive relationship, she is a bit cynical when her professor tells her that he’s going to marry her. She doesn’t believe him, but she is definitely attracted to him.

This is a story about how a divorced white man, with a white mother and a black stepfather, finds love with a young black woman. Professor Ingram notices his sexy student Chris immediately, and then begins to pursue her. They develop a sexy steamy relationship together and they end up getting married.

This is a brilliant story of love, sex, relationships, and the impact of prejudice. I believe in love at first sight, and so did Professor Ingram. This is a light, fun read, encompassing some of the issues that are so prevalent in society today in a very productive way. I think the author did a lovely job interlacing these heavy topics with light fun to create a wonderful, believable story.

Ms. Cromwell‘s number one addiction is daytime soaps. She draws her inspiration for over the top and occasionally outrageous dialogue not only from her favorite daytime soaps – which she records religiously – but also from her family and friends. She‘s the first to admit that her characters are sometimes way out there, but millions of fans of the genre can‘t be wrong! You can reach her at pacd97867@cs.com or www.patcromwell.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
March 2008

DEMENTIA: TREK MI Q’AN BOOK 5.5 by Jaid Black

2009-12-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

DEMENTIA: TREK MI Q’AN BOOK 5.5
JAID BLACK
Futuristic
Ellora’s Cave
Sensuality Rating: E-rotic
ISBN# eBook 1-84360-196-6
Print 9781419956393
32 pages eBook/154 pages Print
$2.99 eBook/$6.99 Print
eBook/Print - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Zaab. General Zaab of the Mantus Hoard, to be exact. He is a gorilla fighter on Dementia and rules with much force and fear. Zaab has attributes of both a human man as well as a gorilla. Ever since he noticed Dee when she was attempting to steal, he has become completely obsessed with her. Will Zaab finally be able to capture his elusive Dee? And if he can, will he be able to keep her from escaping him again?

Dee, also known as Delores Ellison, and she really originates from Earth. About a year ago, she found herself transported to this desolate place called Dementia. She has been able to escape enslavement for the past year. It now looks like her time is up. Will Dee be able to escape him again? Or will she finally find herself in her very own nightmare as a slave to a gorilla?

Dee currently finds herself being chased through the jungle. She realizes she knows who is actually chasing her and it frightens her. As she is being stung in the thigh, she instinctively screams and is immediately thrown to the ground. Oh no, what will happen now? Will Dee be able to escape again or will her hunter find her and enslave her?

This definitely deserves 5 unbelievable Enchantments. This is the first novella I read by Ms. Black, and I have to say that this was a great story. Please don’t be fooled by its length. The rhythm of the story was fast paced and adventurous. “Dementia” is the perfect length for a quick and short diversion from reality for one night. It will transport you to another world and soften your heart to a strong and possessive alpha-male. As short as this story is, the details are wonderful. Ms. Black is able to paint a wonderful picture in the imaginations of her readers and make that personal connection that can transport the reader to a whole new universe.

Jaid Black has been writing for several years and has a great collection of books written. Whether you like futuristic, time travel, Vikings, suspense, action-filled, or a sexual fantasy played out, you will be able to find all of those with this one special author. Look her up at http://www.jaidblack.com/index.htm. From this page you will be able to find all the information you want about Ms. Black and her books.

Rebeca
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

CASSIE’S SHEIK by Linda Sole

2009-12-07T17:12:00.000-08:00

CASSIE’S SHEIK
LINDA SOLE
Contemporary Romance
Red Rose Publishing
Sensuality Rating - S-ensuous
ISBN# 978-1-60435-070-8
230 pages
$4.99
eBook - Available January 10, 2008

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Kasim Ahmed Mohammed is the nephew of a sheik, but is a sheik himself through his lineage. He is aggressive, and a bit overbearing, and he loves Cassie Livingston.

Cassandra Livingston is a twenty-one year old journalist who is helping her father at his stables when she meets Kasim; her knees grew weak, her heart rate sped up and she fell in love with this Middle-Eastern man named Kasim.

This sweet love story brings together an English woman and a Middle-Eastern man in a sweet connection. They overcome different cultural as well as religious differences, to form a beautiful relationship

Absolutely enchanting, such a wonderful story. This story is a beautiful combining of cultures, creating something lovely and worth reading. Ms. Sole created a work, putting it boldly on the canvas and painted it with happy, bright, and sweet colors. For the hopeless romantics like myself, this story is a must read, and one I will read again. Great work, Ms. Sole, I loved it!

Ms. Sole was born in Swindon. She started writing in 1976, combining this with helping her husband to run his antique shop. Writing as Anne Herries, Linda won the 2004 RNA Romance Award and the Betty Neels Trophy. You can reach her at http://www.lindasole.co.uk.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
April 2008

BRIDES OF SERENDIPITY by Sarah Richmond

2009-12-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

BRIDES OF SERENDIPITY
SARAH RICHMOND
Historical/Western/Romance
Cerridwen Press
Sensuality Rating - S-ensuous
ISBN# 9781419914171
223 pages
$6.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

1. COURTIN’ DORY: This is a delightful romance and courtship between Harley Jacobs, a resident of Rag town, and Dory, a pioneer heading west. It is a sweet story with the old west and its culture, beautifully illustrated.

2. BARRETTS LAW: The widda Nicolena Carlson was lonely, the widow Henry Barrett never anticipated remarrying. The two of them ran into each other, and after the dust settled and the sparks stopped flying, they realized they were perfect for each other. This is a lovely, sweet story, and a wonderful read for the romantic at heart.

3. ROSEY: Rosamund Sherry, also known as Rosey, is widowed. Her husband
Sheriff Jake Sherry was murdered by an outlaw called the Kid. Matthew Kincaid is the new sheriff, and he likes Rosey. After a period of time, Rosey realizes she is pregnant with Jake’s baby, and she needs a husband. Mathew loves her, and is ready to be her man.

This book was very good; all three stories were sweet, gentle romance, with the Wild West woven in so delightfully. I enjoyed this book, the softness and the romance. Very nice work, Ms. Richmond, I totally enjoyed it.

Ms. Richmond has lived and traveled all over the world. She calls Pasadena, California, home. She is the winner of the Reviewer’s Choice award for favorite historical author at simegen.com. Sarah welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.cerridwenpress.com.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
May 2008

WINTER WONDERS by Cindy Green/Jo Ann Carter/Meg Allison/Muncy G. Chapman

2009-12-07T17:04:00.000-08:00

WINTER WONDERS - ANTHOLOGY
CINDY GREEN, JO ANN CARTER, MEG ALLISON, MUNCY G. CHAPMAN
Short & Sweet
By Grace Publishing
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN# N/A
75 pages
$2.99 eBook/$9.22 Print
eBook/Print - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Snow Kissed – Cindy Green

Logan Riley paints a rough exterior in his grease-stained t-shirt and faded jeans, but his eyes soften whenever Holly Armstrong is around.

Holly Armstrong, with her wavy reddish-brown hair and blue eyes, has decided to leave Meriden for New York. It’s going to be hard to leave all the things she loves about her small town environment, but it’s a perfect opportunity to further her music career

Logan is terribly upset when he learns from a third party that Holly is leaving. Why couldn’t she have told him? They’ve spent so many special times together, and his heart is breaking. He can’t just let her leave without seeing her one more time, so contrary to his past behavior, he goes to the carnival to find her.

You can read more about this wonderful author at: http://cindykgreen.com/.

Smuggler of the Heart – Jo Ann Carter

Tim Davis stands six feet tall, with light brown hair and intense hazel eyes. He’s had dates and casual relationships, but no one has ever measured up to Samantha Warren.

Auburn-haired Samantha Warren has returned to her grandmother’s home in Stowe for a short visit. While rummaging through Gram’s attic, she comes upon a small worn wooden chest that has quite a history.

The small worn chest that Samantha finds reveals a family legacy of love. She and Tim are both too stubborn to admit their feelings, and Samantha is determined to return to Trenton. Smuggler’s Cove has a connection with the wooden box, and is where Tim takes her on a ski trip.

This lovely book is available at: http://www.bygracepublishing.com.

Gwen’s Resolution – Meg Allison

Tad Smith lives in the small town of Harris Grove. He left long enough to go to college and major in business, but came back to open his own garage.

Gwen Josephs is alone in her duplex, preparing for New Year’s Eve. Tonight will be a new beginning in more ways than one. No more sitting in front of the television or reading novel after novel. She’s going to go out and have fun, even if she’s alone.

It was a year ago when Gwen’s boyfriend broke up with here. As she readies to leave, the phone rings and it’s her mother, checking up on her. Rather than admit to celebrating alone, she tells a little white lie about meeting someone. Her white lie turns out to be the truth when handsome Tad Smith invites her to join him at his table.

With five children, a husband an assorted pets, it’s amazing that Ms. Allison can find time write. She can read more about her at: http://www.megallisonauthor.com.

Maybe Forever – Muncy G. Chapman

Bryan McAlister is on his way to the University of Iowa and a new position when his car slides off the icy road and hit a tree.

Margy Mayfield has just returned home from selling her prized bull at the Ames Livestock auction. A storm is brewing and she’s in a hurry to get home. There’s an escaped convict on the loose.

Maybe Forever was a great finale for this anthology. It’s a little different than the other stories in that Margy is a widow. Despite an invitation from her hired hand, Hiram, to spend the stormy night with he and his wife, Margy decides to stay at home. When the lights go out, she settles down by the lantern to perform her nightly devotion. A pounding on the door interrupts her, and a peek out the window shows someone matching the description of the escapee standing on her doorstep.

Muncy G. Chapman is not a novice author. You can find more of her work at: htttp://www.bygracepublishing.com.

Winter Wonders is full of ‘ah’ moments, and I could go on and on but I have to limit my comments. All I can say is you won’t be disappointed with a single story in this collection. Well done, ladies.

Brett Scott
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
June 2008

BLACK DRAGON by December Quinn

2009-12-07T17:01:00.000-08:00

BLACK DRAGON
DECEMBER QUINN
Historical Romance
Cerridwen Press
Sensuality Rating - S-ensuous
ISBN# 9781419913099
203 pages
$6.99
eBook - Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Gruffydd ap Hywel, also known as the Black Dragon, is a good-looking man who is haunted by his past. He is a man who never allowed himself the pleasure of happiness.

Lady Isabelle is betrothed to Gruffydd in an arranged marriage. She does not want to go with him, but does so out of obedience and duty to her father. Will she ever find love?

This is a historical romance taking place in the thirteenth century. It is filled with murder and mystery. The man and woman do get together after much intrigue, and it ends with a beautiful Happy Ever After.

I wish sometimes I could give a book a higher rating, 5 is as high as we go, but this story was fabulous. Ms. Quinn beautifully wove romance, heartbreak, pain, happiness, and intrigue into a beautiful tapestry of a phenomenal story. I totally loved this story. I was glued from the beginning to the end, and I loved the epilogue! This is a must read, and I will read it again.

Ms. Quinn is married with children. She has been writing for years, and is the author of several acclaimed books. She is intent on writing - especially writing romance. There's something about writing these stories - creating these people and the world they live in, finding out how they fit together, and the knowledge that you're making people happy - that she loves. You can reach her at www.myspace.com/decemberquinn.

Desiree de Cleves
Enchanting Reviews
May 2008

BEAST OF DESIRE by Lisa Renee Jones

2009-12-05T20:37:00.000-08:00

BEAST OF DESIRE, KNIGHTS OF WHITE BOOK 2
LISA RENEE JONES
Paranormal Romance
Harlequin Books S.A., Silhouette Nocturne
Sensuality Rating: Spicy
ISBN # 978-0-373-61783-6
eBook $4.75/ Print $5.25
eBook/Print - Available March 2008

Rating: 5 Enchantments

The Knights of White are back. This time they are looking to save the legendary journal of Solomon, which is said to hold a map to the location of a list of bloodlines of the descents of angels. The Darkland Beasts are after the journal, wanting to destroy all that may be connected to it.

Jessica Montgomery's mother died trying to find Solomon's journals, ignoring her health because of her obsession to locate them. When they are found, the museum Jessica works for plans to hold a reception to reveal the journals to the public, unwittingly revealing them to the beasts who want to steal them and use them for their own evil design.

Des is the leader of the team of knights on the reconnaissance mission for the recently discovered journals. They know that the Darkland Beasts are planning a heist, which they plan to thwart, by getting it first. Des meets Jessica under the guise wanting to gift the museum with a generous donation. The chemistry between them is immediately obvious to both, the only question is whether to fight it, or enjoy it.

Des is walking a thin line between darkness and light. He has control of his beast, though is not willing to depend on the goodness of his soul, fearing the evil is to close to the surface and may be unexpectedly released. Jessica has an innocent soul, willing to see Des for all that he is. Jessica is the only thing that can save him. As they search for the map of the bloodlines, they grow closer and closer.

OMG! Ms. Jones has done it again! Des and Jessica's story is another outstanding show of her incredible talent at penning a story I will want to read again and again! Des is struggling not to let the beast inside him control his life, yet also unwilling to let the man come through either. He believes that his flaws as a human may come to corrupt him into losing his battle and letting the beast out for good. I love that Jessica is a woman who knows what she wants, and is not afraid to go after it. She knew that Des was her destiny and did not fight it, though she did have to fight to make Des realize that she is his destiny, also.

The Knights of White are my favorite kind of heroes, alpha males, with insecurities that make you love them as they try to overcome their flaws, both real and imagined. They are also men who treat the woman in their lives with love and respect, even when they are denying they feel any emotion. No doubt about it - Ms. Jones' books are an auto-buy for me. She writes compelling stories that keep me enthralled from page one all the way through the end. I loath putting her books down, how dare work and family intrude! I am already counting down the days until Max and Sarah's book, which doesn't come out until JULY!

To learn more about the Knights of White series, you can visit them on the web at: http://www.theknightsofwhite.com/. To find out more about Lisa Renee Jones, you can visit her at: http://www.lisareneejones.com/.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
February 2008

BEAST OF DARKNESS by Lisa Renee Jones

2009-12-05T20:31:00.000-08:00

BEAST OF DARKNESS

LISA RENEE JONES

Paranormal Romance

Harlequin Books S.A., Silhouette Nocturne

Sensuality Rating - Spicy

280 Pages

ISBN # 978-0-373-61790-6

eBook $4.75 / Print $5.25

eBook/Print - Available July 2008

Rating: 5 Enchantments

The Knights of White return in their vigilant fight of good vs. evil against the Darkland Beasts.

Adrian is back with a new scheme in his struggle to obtain more dark power. He has discovered a demon prince, Vars, who can be used to strengthen his battle against the Knights and to overtake Cain, as the ruler of the underworld. He would like nothing better than to add Max to his demon army.

Breaking the sacred rule to never kill a human, albeit an evil one, Max must pass an unthinkably hard test to prove that he will not succumb to his inner-beast. Salvidor has sent him on a quest to affirm his loyalty to the Knights. He is drawn to the town of Nowhere, Texas, where he senses an evil not just born of the beasts, and knows that it will be a part of his trial.

Sarah Meyers and her team have been asked to visit Nowhere, Texas to research the supernatural happenings around town. Gifted with the ability to speak with the dead, she has never felt normal, so when she meets Max she feels a kindred spirit.

Max knows that Sarah is his mate, but will she be able to accept him? Having lost her family to a demon, Sarah is hesitant to trust. But soon she feels the same tug as Max and knows that they are meant for each other. But, will she be willing to be Max's mate?

Soon the battle ensues, Max calls his fellow Knights to help defeat the uprising army of beasts. Will Max lose his soul to join Adrian's army? Or will Sarah give him the confidence he needs to trust himself to be hers for eternity and to continue the battle against the beasts?

Another outstanding achievement by Lisa Renee Jones! She has created warriors that jump off the pages in their quests to combat evil and find love. The Knights of White are my absolute favorite superheroes! I was drawn to Max's story in BEAST OF DESIRE, where he showed the promise of a true champion, and in BEAST OF DARKNESS he did not disappoint. I was on the edge of my seat, throughout much of the story, just waiting to see where he was going to take me. I loved that he had never lost faith, and was able to show Sarah how to regain hers and how she was gave him the strength he needed to believe in himself and in their love. Sarah was a perfect compliment for him. As a strong independent woman, she was able to see into him, understanding him to the point that she was sure the beast within him was well below the surface.

Ms. Jones did an excellent job bringing the Knights and Cathy and Edward, Sarah's team, into the story, without taking away from Max and Sarah. Adrian and Salvidor are key characters that add a higher element to the fight, I love seeing their battles in each story.

I eagerly await the next installment of the series, CAPTIVE BY THE BEAST, Rinehart's story. I can't wait to see what scheme Adrian thinks of next (or see what punishment Cain has in store for him.)

To learn more about Lisa Renee Jones you can visit her on the web at http://www.lisareneejones.com/ and to learn more about the Knights of White, visit them at http://www.knightsofwhite.com/.

Aemelia

Enchanting Reviews

May 2008

VISION IN WHITE by Nora Roberts

2009-10-18T18:44:00.001-07:00

VISION IN WHITE
NORA ROBERTS
Contemporary Romance
Berkley
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 9780-425-22751-0
352 Pages
$16.00
Trade--Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Mackenzie “Mac” Elliot is the wedding photographer for ‘Vows’, the wedding planning business she runs with her three lifelong best friends. She isn’t looking for a relationship at all, in fact, that’s probably the last thing on Earth she wants--until she encounters Carter Maguire, the new teacher at her old high school and the brother of one of their clients.

Carter Maguire had a crush on the free spirited Mac in high school and never did anything about it. Now that they’ve reconnected thanks to his younger sister’s wedding, he’s not going to let that happen again. Recently out of a bad relationship, Carter’s a little unsure in the dating department and gets help from his co-worker and friend, Bob, who isn’t the best advice giver in the world. But Carter gets past the bad advice and falls--hard--for the unconventional photographer.

VISION IN WHITE is a great kick-off to Ms. Roberts’ new series. I loved Mac, she’s a very strong willed character, except when her mother’s involved and that’s where the trouble begins. Thanks to her oft married mother, Mac has a skewed view of relationships and panics when she realizes things between her and Carter may be getting more serious than what she’s comfortable with. At times, I wasn’t sure of Carter. I liked him well enough, and he loves Mac, but his uneasiness with how to act and date and basically woo her did get a little tedious at times, but the chemistry between the two characters is unmistakable. There are some truly great scenes in the book. One of my favorites is the meet scene between Mac and Carter, where he bops his head against the wall and she tends to him. Not to spoil it, but it’s a really funny and memorable scene with some great dialogue.

Ms. Roberts lays the groundwork in VISION IN WHITE for what should be a great series. I love the backdrop of the four women running a ‘Vows’ the wedding planning company. All four women are equally strong characters and there’s already some hint of the possible men in their lives with some of the supporting cast in this book. I look forward to the second book, ‘Bed Of Roses’, due to be released October 2009.

Nora Roberts is the author of 160 New York Times best sellers, including 23 written as J.D. Robb and one written together with J.D. Robb. Visit her online at http://www.noraroberts.com/

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
August 2009

BARELY BEWITCHED (A Southern Witch Novel) by Kimberly Frost

2009-10-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

BARELY BEWITCHED (A Southern Witch Novel)
KIMBERLY FROST
Paranormal Romance
Berkley
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0-425-22961-3
312 Pages
$14.00
Trade—Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Tammy Jo is once again finding herself in a heap load of trouble. Bad enough that her attraction to Bryn is anything but fading, but there's a guy on her doorstep telling her she has to take a witch test from WAM, the World Association of Magic, within a few weeks. If she fails, she's dead. He won't listen to the fact that she doesn't want to be a witch nor does she want to cast spells ever again. Amongst this, her ex-husband and sometimes boyfriend Zach is having issues dealing with what happened, her family ghost Edie up and disappears on her and somehow in all of this, Tammy Jo's managed to somehow turn fae.

BARELY BEWITCHED is a great fun paranormal read. I'd definitely say it helps if you're already familiar with the series, as some parts can be a little confusing if you don't already know the prior history between some of the characters. I liked Tammy Jo a lot, she wasn't afraid to do things, even though she knew they could end up going wrong, like her magic usually seems to. Her chemistry with both her ex-husband Zach and with Bryn is complex and intriguing. At some points, you want her with Zach and others you wonder why she wastes her time with him. Same can be said for her relationship with Bryn as well.

What I truly loved about BARELY BEWITCHED is that it was a read where you truly had no idea what would happen next. Between the arson-crazed Incendio, the faeries that had escaped and created havoc within Duvall, and her topsy-turvy relationship with both men in her life, the pages went by in a blur and I reached the end of the book far too soon. The story may have gotten off to a bit of slow start, but once it reached the middle it was raring along. It's hard to say who I wish Tammy Jo would end up with, especially with Edie's warning of a future betrayal in Tammy Jo's future, but at the moment I'm leaning towards Bryn as he's not so my way or the highway with Tammy Jo.

Filled with fun characters, like her hairdresser Johnny and his vamp boyfriend, Rollie and the interesting Mr. Jenson, BARELY BEWITCHED is a great second novel in the series. I can't wait to read what's next for Tammy Jo and the town of Duvall.

Kimberly Frost wasn't born in Texas, but she got there as fast as she could. Currently at home in a small town known as Houston, she is taking dictation from her characters and working on a new Southern Witch novel. She loves to hear from readers and you can visit her at http://www.frostfiction.com/

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009

SINS OF A WICKED DUKE by Sophie Jordan

2009-10-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

SINS OF A WICKED DUKE
SOPHIE JORDAN
Historical Romance
Avon Historical Romance
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN#978-0-06-157917-2
369 Pages
$6.99
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Dominic Hale, known as ‘the demon duke’ for his wild living ways, can’t get the woman he rescued out of his head. But she spurned his advances and he doesn’t have time for women who aren’t interested in what he has to offer—which to be brutally honest, isn’t much more then a good time. He’s not interested in relationships, as his nickname suggests. But the right woman might just change all that, if he can convince both her and himself.

After losing her latest job, thanks to the wandering hands of her boss’ son, Fallon O’Rouke finds herself without a lot of options. The woman at the agency won’t recommend her for another job. One of her two best friends is setting sail with her own charge and Fallon is at a loss of what to do—until the perfect idea hits. If she were a man things would be much easier. Shedding her attention getting locks is easier than expected and she gets the first job she turns up for, working for the one man she never expected, the man who tried to rescue her from the wandering hands of her last employer, the so-called wicked duke.

SINS OF A WICKED DUKE is a really enjoyable historical romance. Fallon isn’t exactly your typical woman of the times, as she’s willing to change her appearance and even her identity to get a job so she can attain her dream of one day having a small cottage of her own. I especially enjoyed watching her have to fight to keep her role as Francis “Frank” when she finds herself attracted to Dominic. And things get even more fun when one of the young maids decides to crush on newcomer ‘Frank’. Forced to hide her true identity, things become even more complicated when out of an act of heroism ‘Frank’ saves Dominic from being shot by an irate husband and is quickly promoted in the household to that of valet. It was hard enough being attracted to Dominic from afar, but now Fallon finds herself living in the room next door. I loved the tension between the two, especially when Dominic begins to believe Frank isn’t who he says he is. And the scene where the truth comes out is truly one of my favorites. But hands down, the best scene is when Fallon as Frank shoos out Dominic’s drunken friend and the two women who are there with them. With Dominic passed out on top of the bed, Fallon thinks she can escape. But when he mistakenly thinks it’s the woman he brought home and kisses her, it takes all of Fallon’s willpower to pull away and sneak back to her own room. Ms. Jordan has done a great job creating two memorable characters with Fallon and Dominic.

Sophie Jordan is a former high school English teacher and resides in Houston with her family. When not writing, she divides her time between inventing what she calls culinary masterpieces and visiting her family’s pecan ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Sophie also writes paranormal romances under the name Sharie Kohler.

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
July 2009

THE LONE TEXAN by Jodi Thomas

2009-10-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

THE LONE TEXAN
JODI THOMAS
Historical Romance
Berkley
Sensuality Rating: Sweet
ISBN# 978-0-425-23062-6
336 pages
$7.99Print – Available Now
Rating: 5 Enchantments

Drummond Roak has always taken care of himself as he grew up on his own and became a legendary gunfighter. He’s sexy, caring and a little rough around the edges. The one constant in his life has been his love for Sage McMurray.

Sage grew up under the protection of three older brothers, and at 18 left to make her own mark in the world as a doctor. Now she’s returned home to Whispering Mountain with a cynical attitude about love. When Sage returns home she has plans to open a clinic and live quietly being a doctor. However, she gets involved in protecting two boys who have thugs gunning for them. No one is sure why a band of outlaws wants them dead, but with Drum's help she’s determined to make sure they are safe. That could be hard to do since she’s kidnapped by the outlaws and taken to their hideout. Drum rides out to save her, with revenge on his mind.

This is a very sweet love story with a likable hero and heroine. Both Sage and Drum are inherently good people trying to find their place in life. The conversations they have are both sweet and feisty, as Sage isn’t quite ready to admit that Drum is the man for her but he’s doing his best to convince her. I loved the interaction between the two, as Ms. Thomas does a good job of making their arguments funny, but at the same time you can tell they care for each other
Drums’ pining for Sage does get a little old and he’s made out to practically be a saint as he constantly shrugs off Sage’s rejection and always does the right thing. However, he still makes a great hero because he does treat Sage with respect and even though he’s had a rough life he still cares about the people around him.

The action in this story keeps moving with several story lines going at once. The focus isn’t solely on the main characters and I really liked the little side story involving Sage’s nurse Bonnie. I’m also hoping that Ranger Daniel will get his own story! There’s a little of everything in this book, including murder, mystery and a love story. This is the first story I’ve read by Ms. Thomas and I can’t wait to read some of the first books in the Whispering Mountain series.

Ms. Thomas grew up in Texas and most of her novels are set there. She’s won many awards for her writing. You can learn more about her at http://www.jodithomas.com/.

Heather
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009

BLOOD RED ROSE: THE HUNT FOR THE ELIXIR by Midnyte Dupree

2009-10-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

BLOOD RED ROSE: THE HUNT FOR THE ELIXIR
MIDNYTE DUPREE
Romance Vampire
Resplendence Publishers
Sensuality Rating: Garnet
ISBN#97-201-107-409-4
Number of pages: 113
$5.00
E book- Available May 2009

Rating: 5 Enchantments

After 200 years living away from his homeland, the Master Vampire Eli, was finally heading home. The task of keeping the Elixir safe from their enemies known only as the The Others. This task was given to him by his late Queen to make sure the Elixir was kept out of their enemies hands.

Rose was looking around the night club when she spotted him. As she came closer to him, Eli's heart began to beat harder, his body reacting to her being so close to him, after kissing her, his need to taste her was building in his blood, the Elixir that hung around his neck started to vibrate as hard as his heart was beating. Why would the Elixir vibrate only when she was so close? What did she have to do with the Elixir anyway? The others would try reclaim the Elixir on the way back to Rome. He would have to leave soon for Rome, but would Rose go with him? Would the others try again to reclaim the Elixir before it is reunited with the New Queen?

I truly enjoyed this book. I could not put it down. The characters are so real that you can connect to them and what they go though and why they feel the way they do. I love a great hero like Eli.
You can see how he comes to terms with his [past in order to be able to deal with his feelings for Rose. How Rose grows as a vampire because of Eli's acceptance of her in his life. I think this is a very well written book. The characters are all very well rounded and full of life. I can only hope that there will be more from Midnyte Dupree about Eli and Rose.

K.L. Bjork who also writes as Midnyte Dupree is such a wonderful writer. Her characters are wonderful written and full of life. Her website is www.midnyte-dupree.com

Barbara Weghorn
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
April 2009

SEIZE THE FIRE by Laura Kinsale

2009-10-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

SEIZE THE FIRE
LAURA KINSALE
Historical Romance
Sourcebooks Casablanca
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
583 pages
ISBN # 978-1-4022-1396-0
$7.99
Print book – Available now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Olympia, Princess of Orleans is ready to start a revolution. She believes she can help the people of her homeland oust the current government, her uncle, a ruthless tyrant, who has chosen to marry Olympia off for his political gain. Olympia is having none of that, she's thought of the prefect plan to foil her uncle. And she's found a hero to help her.

Captain Sheridan Drake isn't heroic, he's lucky. Even when he's doing his best to tarnish his reputation, he still ends up the hero. No matter what he does, he comes out smelling like a rose. When the princess asks for his help, he jumps at the chance, not to help her, but to take advantage of her. He's in a tremendous amount of debt, and figures he's found a plumb pigeon ready to be plucked.

Things do not go as planned for either of them. Olympia discovers that planning a revolt and being in one are two completely different concepts. When she finally learns her hero is a thieving scoundrel, she is forced to face reality and try to save herself. Is there any possible redemption for Sheridan? How can two people with such different personalities, find any common ground to base a relationship on?

I was so excited to finally find a historical romance that moved away from Great Britain and into more exotic locales. But, when I began this book I was a bit daunted by the size, it's been a long time since I've read an epic saga of any kind.

It didn't help that I was a bit disgusted by both Olympia and Sheridan for about the first quarter of the book. Olympia was a princess. She was spoiled, idealistic, and very naive in the matters of politics and the world in general, which she was so sure she could take over. Also, the gushing infatuation she felt for Sheridan was nauseating. Sheridan on the other hand, was a penniless knave, whose main concern was himself. He rarely did anything that did not benefit him.

When Olympia was rudely introduced to the reality of life, things seemed to finally pick up and get rolling. I soon found myself unable to put this book down! Soon I had an interesting heroine, who was spirited, independent and finally was not going to put up with being taken advantage of again. Sheridan turned around and truly decided to be a better person. As their mutual attraction became harder to avoid, I greatly anticipated them falling in love and wanting a future together. The danger that surrounded them kept the story hopping. I felt myself so emotionally entwined in the book that on more than one occasion I felt tears burning my eyes. The love they felt for each other and the trials they went through to get to their happily ever after made this a worthy read.

I can't wait for her new book LESSONS IN FRENCH coming out in February 2010.

Laura Kinsale is a New York Times Best-selling author. You can learn more about her http://www.laurakinsale.com/.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
September 2009

TRIPLE EXPOSURE by Colleen Thompson

2009-10-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

TRIPLE EXPOSURE
COLLEEN THOMPSON
Romantic Suspense
Dorchester Publishing, Leisure Books
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
352 pages
ISBN # 978-0-8439-6143-0
$7.99
Print book – Available now

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Killing her would-be attacker did not save Rachel Copeland from terror. She left Boston to return home Marfa, Texas, hoping to escape the media and a stalker, who believes Rachel didn't act in self-defense, but as a seductress and murderer. Believing if she left it all behind, she could start over.

Zeke Pike is a loner. He is perfectly happy not having to deal with people on a daily basis. He'd rather work with his hands, creating wood furniture, or ride out into the desert, alone. He has left his past far behind, missing it, but never to seeking to repair it.
Rachel and Zeke strike and unlikely friendship that quickly leads to passion. But the past is not ready to be buried. Who seeks to hurt Rachel, and why the animosity? Can Zeke and Rachel find happiness, if the killer doesn't get to them first?

TRIPLE EXPOSURE is a masterfully spun tale of romantic suspense. I was not able to correctly guess the true villain, though I had many suspects in mind. I was completely absorbed into this gripping story. While the thrilling suspense kept me glued to my seat, the compelling tenderness Zeke felt for Rachel, and her returned passion was wonderfully captured into words. I felt as if these two were perfect for each other. Though they had to work at realizing they were meant to have a future together. I was highly amused when the high school classmate of Rachel's was humiliated by her own actions, I always enjoy seeing a “mean girl” get a shot of her own medicine.

I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Thompson, who, prior to writing suspense wrote historical books as Gwyneth Atlee and Colleen Easton. She currently lives in Texas with her family. When she's not writing you can find her with her family or with a book in her face. You can learn more about her on the web at: www.colleen-thompson.com.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
October 2009

HIGHLAND OBSESSION by Dawn Halliday

2009-08-21T14:49:00.000-07:00

HIGHLAND OBSESSION
DAWN HALLIDAY
Historical Romance
Signet Eclipse
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN# 978-0-451-22701-0
320 pages
$15.00
Trade – Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Alan, a Scottish laird, and Cam, the Earl of Camdonn, have been best friends since boarding school, wreaking havoc with each other and guarding each other’s back. Alan is handsome, serious and noble, whereas Cam is gorgeous, wealthy and out to have a good time. The one thing they do have in common is their love for the same woman.

Sorcha is a beautiful, sensuous woman, who above all else believes in honor. She had a fling with Cam in her youth, but once she marries Alan she becomes devoted to him.

Although Alan and Cam have been friends for years, that doesn’t stop Cam from deciding he can’t live without Sorcha and kidnapping Alan’s wife on their wedding night. Alan believed his bride was pure, but learns that she had a love affair with Cam before they met. While Cam struggles with his obsession with Sorcha, Alan must deal with his mixed feelings over his wife and best friend. Meanwhile, Sorcha is torn between two men she cares deeply for.

This book is hot, hot, hot! Sorcha, Alan and Cam burn up the pages with their passion for each other. Ms. Halliday definitely knows how to keep the sex scenes exciting and fresh. Sorcha isn’t the typical shy virgin heroine as portrayed in many historical romances. She’s a sensual woman who isn’t afraid to experience the carnal pleasures that await her.
All of the characters are struggling to come to terms over their feelings about each other, and Ms. Halliday does a good job of making the reader feel their angst as they try to do the right thing. Although at times I found Alan to be a little too self-righteous and Cam to be very selfish and it made me wonder how they would have become such good friends in the first place. Sorcha, on the other hand, was a very believable character who grows and learns about herself as the book progresses.

Overall, this is a sizzling read that leaves me wanting more. I can’t wait to read Cam’s story in HIGHLAND SURRENDER coming out in 2010.

Ms. Halliday lives in California with her husband and three sons. She also writes under the penname Jennifer Haymore. You can visit her website at http://www.dawnhalliday.com/

Heather
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
August 2009

MASTER by Colette Gale

2009-08-21T14:46:00.001-07:00

MASTER: an Erotic Novel of the Count of Monte Cristo
COLETTE GALE
Erotica, Historical
Signet Eclipse
Sensuality Rating: Sizzling
ISBN #978-0-451-22412-5
343 Pages
$14.00
Trade: Available Now

Rating: 3 Enchantments

When Edmond Dantes finally escapes the prison walls which encased him for years, he returns home in disguise, on a path of revenge, as the wealthy Count of Monte Cristo. Nobody is quite sure where the Count is from, but one woman sees through the facade, as she gazes into the eyes of the man she once loved.

When the man Mercedes Herrera Mondego she loved vanished without a trace, she was sure her life was at an end. Married to a man she despises, she has never found a glimmer of the happiness she once cherished. Now her beloved has returned, though only she seems to realize it. But instead of a joyful reunion she discovers he is out for vengeance, and not just against the men who betrayed him, but also against her.

Will Edmond be content with the destruction of the lives of those who ruined him? Will he be the master to Mercedes, as he enslaves her in his passionate pursuit and retaliation efforts?

Honestly my biggest problem with this book was I was expecting a romance, but what I got out of it was an erotic novel, the romance just didn't work for me. The Count of Monte Cristo has always been one of my favorite books and movie adaptations, so I was eager to see how Ms. Gale wove one of my favorite classics into an erotic romance. Maybe my expectations were too high. While there was an unmistakable chemistry between Edmond and Mercedes, I just felt he was to cruel in his revenge to be a romance hero, okay that probably sounds silly especially with all the “revenge” themed romances out there, some of which I really like, but what I mean is that I never really felt him warm up to her, he always held himself aloof. I felt bad for Mercedes as she tried to regain her lost love, but never seemed to quite succeed. As erotica this was a fair read, but still not something that I was enthralled with. The story was peppered with many scorching hot and sometimes rather kinky sex scenes, but just great sex scenes doesn't make a good book for me, I need more plot that I can get into.

Colette Gale is the nom de guerre of a popular historical author. You can learn more about her and her books on her website: www.colettegale.com.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
July 2009

THE PRINCE OF MIDNIGHT by Laura Kinsale

2009-08-21T14:36:00.000-07:00

THE PRINCE OF MIDNIGHT
LAURA KINSALE
Historical
Sourcebooks
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN #978-1-4022-1397-7
521 Pages
$7.99
Paperback: Available Now

Rating 3.5 Enchantments

Lady Leigh Strachan has crossed France dressed as a boy, seeking the skills of The Prince of Midnight, a legendary highwayman, believing he can train her to kill the man who destroyed her family. But what she finds is a shell of a man, crippled by illness.

Living in a deteriorating castle, with his pet wolf, S.T. Maitland yearns for the company of a woman. He can't hear out of one ear, and is plagued by dizziness and nausea with every quick move he makes. Now he struggles to live life as an artist.

Circumstances force them together on a quest back to England, where he once again gains his health, strength, and stamina. Soon Leigh sees the ominous and invigorating man behind the legend. Can he melt the ice around her heart?

I found the first half of THE PRINCE OF MIDNIGHT to drag for me. It took me a while before I was able to warm up to Leigh and S.T. Leigh was just too cold and stubborn, while S.T. was almost ridiculously mushy. But once S.T. regained his vitality and health, and stopped letting Leigh walk all over him, I felt the story pick right up. Leigh had a long way to go before her heart healed over the tragic murders of her family, but she finally rediscovered her emotions, unable to lock them away any longer. The transition of S.T. from Beta to Alpha hero was intriguing. I am definitely a fan of the Alpha romance hero. I loved the complexity of the characters, even if they didn't appeal to me immediately, they were well developed, and eventually won me over.

I enjoyed THE PRINCE OF MIDNIGHT and look forward to rediscovering more of Ms. Kinsale's books.

Laura Kinsale, a former petroleum geologist, is a New York Times bestselling author. Who is working a new and highly anticipated book to be published in February 2010. She and her husband divide their time between Santa Fe and Dallas.

Aemelia
Enchanting Reviews
July 2009

SECRET LIFE OF A VAMPIRE by Kerrelyn Sparks

2009-08-13T17:09:00.001-07:00

SECRET LIFE OF A VAMPIRE
KERRELYN SPARKS
Paranormal Romance
Avon Paranormal Romance
Sensuality Level: Sexy
ISBN# 978-0-06-166785-5
360 Pages
$7.99
Paperback—Available Now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Jack is the son of the legendary Casanova. He’s not a legendary lothario like his father and at times, just wishes to blend in amongst the other vampires. But when the bachelor party gets out of hand and two police officers come to the door, he does his best to wipe their memories and get them out of the room as fast as possible. The man is easy to control, but the woman, Jack can’t control her at all. There’s something about Lara, besides the fact he can’t alter her mind, that Jack finds interesting. But is it going to end up being his downfall? The last thing a vampire needs to do is get entangled with a mortal whom he can’t wipe away their memories if things go bad.

After a horrible car accident left her injured, Lara Boucher picked up and moved to NYC with her hospital roommate and became NYPD. Now on the way to making detective, Lara finds herself investigating the case of disappearing girls off university campuses. But there’s one thing that disturbs Lara, other then her attraction to Jack—the girls’ disappearances all seem to have a theme to them, and that theme shares something with Jack.

I loved Jack in SECRET LIFE OF A VAMPIRE but I have to say it took me a good while to like Lara. Up till around their first date, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted these two to end up together at all. As the son of Casanova, Jack should have the same skills with women as his father, but if his past has taught him anything, it’s that women usually can’t accept who he is. But with Lara, he’s willing to risk more then he thought possible. The chemistry between these two characters was almost instantaneous and continued like that throughout the book. One of my favorite scenes is when the two first meet and Lara is horrified at what she finds in the hotel suite, deciding that Jack’s attacked the two women in the bedroom (who are really nothing more than plastic dolls filled with blood) and that a passed out and blood stained Laszlo is in need of paramedics. It’s hilarious to see Jack try to get rid of her and her partner while she keeps discovering everything he doesn’t want a mortal to see.

A good addition to the series, SECRET LIFE OF A VAMPIRE will keep readers of this popular series happy with Jack’s story. I look forward to seeing which of the vampires we get to read about next.

Ms. Sparks lives in the greater Houston area with her husband, children and a houseful of garlic. Visit Ms. Sparks online at her website, http://www.kerrelynsparks.com/

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
June 2009

POST GRAD by Emily Cassel

2009-08-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

POST GRAD
EMILY CASSEL
Women’s Fiction
St. Martin’s Griffin
ISBN# 978-0-312-59626-2
256 Pages
$13.99
Trade--Available Now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Ryden Malby’s had her whole life planned out, do well in high school, get a great scholarship and graduate, thereby moving into the next phase of her life, a gorgeous place and her dream job at the city’s best publishing house. Graduating from college was one thing, but when her plans for her life are quickly disintegrating she’s forced to do the unthinkable—move back home with her parents, her crazy grandmother and strange little brother till she can find a job and figure out what to do with her life.

POST GRAD is a hilarious, entertaining read. There wasn’t a single chapter where I didn’t either laugh or lament the thought of having to eventually put the book down. I loved Ryden instantly, it’s hard to not like a girl who’s dealing with a family as crazy as hers, and her nemesis in Jessica Barde, the ‘perfect’ girl who seems to always show up when Ryden would least like her to, especially during one truly horrific moment when working at Luggage World. Her best friend Adam who’s hopelessly crushing on her. Ryden’s family is truly one of the best, most outrageous families I’ve ever come across. Her father is beyond hilarious and her grandmother is a scene stealer. It’s so hard to pick a scene to mention in the review, but the first one that pops to mind is when her grandmother takes them shopping for her own casket and the chaos that ensues. Ryden’s already embarrassed enough at times by her family, but to have her grandmother actually trying out the caskets is enough to give the poor girl a meltdown.

If you’re looking for a great read, POST GRAD is one book you should definitely pick up.

Check out the first chapter online at http://us.macmillan.com/postgrad

Lisa
Enchanting Reviews
July 2009

LOVER AVENGED by J.R. Ward

2009-08-05T03:34:00.000-07:00

LOVER AVENGED
J. R. WARD
Paranormal Romance Fiction
NAL
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 9780451225856
544 pages
$24.95eBook/Print
Available April 2009
Rating: 5 Enchantments

Rehvenge is an attentive son, a protective brother, a member of the Glymera and an exceptionally shrewd businessman. He wears his purple eyes and mohawk like a weapon and does not hesitate to make an example of people who cut into his business. His club is the hottest place in town and the women who solicit there are very well cared for. He is a drug dealer extraordinaire whose personal addiction is literally a matter of life and death. When a member of the aristocracy thinks Rehvenge makes the perfect pawn, he couldn’t be any more wrong. Rehv is ever the opportunist, although never at the expense of his family. And there’s the small matter of the princess who blackmails him with a secret that could bring the whole house of cards tumbling down.

Once upon a time Ehlena belonged to the beautiful world of the Glymera. An aristocrat by birth until an unfortunate change of circumstance saw her family lose their wealth, status, friends and home. These days she lives very modestly on the income she earns as a nurse. Her father’s illness leaves very little time to socialise and, from habit, she maintains a protective air of aloofness. Her contact with Rehvenge to date has been minimal, that of patient and nurse, until one day his conversation forces her to notice him as a man.

Secrets have a power, and Rehvenge’s secrets are a little bit different than those belonging to anyone else. They have the power to hurt his mother and sister, see his family cast from their home and have him imprisoned for the rest of his life. Not all as a result of his own actions. Up till now Rehv has kept his distance from the Brotherhood, in spite of his sister having married one of their warriors. His secrets cannot help in the war against those that would slay their kind, otherwise known as the Lessening Society. When members of the aristocracy seek him out as a possible candidate to kill their king, it’s not a total surprise when they add blackmail to the mix. In the middle of a regular visit to the doctor, Rehv makes his attraction to Ehlena very clear. While everything around them begins to unravel at an alarmingly fast pace, their feelings for each other seem to be the only bit of stability either of them can find. And even that seems uncertain when Rehvenge’s secrets are made known to Ehlena in the most terrifying way possible. When Ehlena starts to question what is and isn’t real it seems it may be too late.

“The king must die.” This eye opener of a statement kicks off the seventh novel in the darkly romantic Black Dagger Brotherhood series. And also manages to set the tone for the rest of the novel. While Rehv’s lifestyle may seem morally bankrupt, his own personal code of honour is deeply ingrained and, ironically enough, more honest than that of any of the aristocracy, and they’re the people who make the laws that everyone else abides by. Rehvenge and Ehlena’s story takes precedence over all else but, over and around that main theme, are other smaller supporting stories unfolding in their own way. Just when things begin to get interesting between Rehv and Ehlena the story would switch to John on a self-destructive streak, or to Xhex and her personal pain, or to Wrath and his deteriorating vision, or to Lasher and his perverted grab for power. While I found this extremely frustrating I couldn’t help but admire the way in which Ward very cleverly kept me on the edge of my seat. The sub-plots gave me hope that there would be other novels, if only for Xhex and John Matthew.

At no time did I think a happy ever after moment was a given. In fact, even when you think you’ve got a happy ending it comes with more food for thought. That’s not a bad thing – in fact it’s fantastic. I felt I had earned the ending because I had sweated blood and tears and nerves right along with the characters. My only regret is that the novel is finished and book 8 in this fantabulous series cannot come fast enough for me!

J. R. Ward lives with her husband and golden retriever in the American south, and spent years working as the Chief of Staff for an academic medical centre. For more information on the author and her books visit http://www.jrward.com/ where readers can choose to read the message boards or send an email: jrw@jrward.com

Tosca
Enchanting Reviews
June 2009

THE BEAST WITHIN by Lisa Renee Jones

2009-07-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

THE BEAST WITHIN
LISA RENEE JONES
Paranormal Romance
Harlequin Books/Silhouette Nocturne
ISBN# 978-0-373-61775-3
$5.25
Print - Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

She came to him in his dreams, tempting him, taking him to the edge, bringing the Beast within him to the surface. Making him lose the control he has fought so hard to keep.

Jag is the leader of the Knights of White, immortal warriors fighting the soulless Darkland Beasts. He lost his first love and his soul to the beasts two centuries earlier. He regained his soul, and if he loses it again, it will be forever. He will not succumb to the call again.

Karen Gibson lived a life of pleasure and fun, one that sheltered her from her past. That is, until she received a telegram from her sister Eva, stating only that Mark, Eva’s husband, was dead. By not giving any other details, Karen knew something was wrong.

Jag and Karen meet for the first time at the airport. He recognizes her and is suspicious, while she’s simply tired from her flight. When she sees Jag, she feels an initial jolt of recognition. Jag questions her appearance in his dreams, and begrudgingly releases her finally.

Karen finds her sister in a comatose state however. She recognizes the bite marks on her neck, and knows that she needs help. Help she will find at Jaguar Ranch, where Eva can be healed by those who fight the Darkland Beasts. This is where she encounters Jag, again. Jag is a tortured soul, needing to find the strength and courage to battle the beast within, though horrified of the consequences if he were to release it. Karen is his stabilizer, showing him that he can overcome the beast, though he will not trust her easily.

I loved, loved, loved this story. I did not want this book to end and, consequently, cannot wait for the next installment of the series. Ms. Jones has created characters you believe in and whom you want to see again and again. She drew me into not only the main characters, but also her supporting characters. I cannot wait to read Des’ story or to find out how the relationship between Rock & Marisol evolves (I’m hoping they get their own book too). I especially want to see what will transpire in the struggle between the good of Salvador, the descendent of Archangel Raphael, and the evil of Adrian, the right-hand man of Cain, the lord of the demons.

Ms. Jones has just become an auto buy for me! To find out more about this author and her books, you can visit her on the web at www.lisareneejones.com.

Aemelia
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
November 2007

HOLD by Zannie Adams

2009-07-09T12:30:00.000-07:00

HOLD
ZANNIE ADAMS
Futuristic Romance
Ellora’s Cave
ISBN# 9781419912849
$5.20
eBook - Available now

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Imprisoned for a violation against the Coalition, mistakenly assuming that while she was given permission to explore the Imperial Palace of Karna, the permission also extended to digging on the Palace grounds, archeologist Riana is sent to the prison planet, Genus 6. A prison guard is kind enough to give her advice during her processing. In order to survive, she must align herself with the strongest man in the Hold. To give herself to him in exchange for his protection.

Dropped in the Hold, Riana is immediately surrounded by the predatory inmates, all wanting to have her. She notes the solitary man in a cell watching the goings on. Thorn, one of the Alphas, gives her the choice of him or he will give her to all the other prisoners. Not liking the cold, selfish look of him, Riana kicks him and chooses the loner in the cell.

Cain had been in the Hold for a year now. He had learned to survive by showing little or no emotion. By being stronger than all the rest. When Riana faces him through the bars, begging to be let in, he cannot refuse. While she realizes she must go through with the inevitable physical relationship, she is surprised by the actual pleasure and passion she feels for him.

Riana and Cain’s relationship is one of few words, but of great emotion. Cain is very driven and focused on finding an escape route. Riana is not sure of Cain’s feelings for her, though she knows she is growing to care for him. Riana is scared that when he does escape, he will not take her with.

I could not put this book down. It was as if something grabbed me and made me sit and finish the book in one afternoon. Ms. Adams had my undivided attention as I followed her characters, Cain and Riana. I was skeptical at first, but she gave such depth to Cain and Riana, that while the setting primarily took place in their cell, I just HAD to continue reading to see what their plan was to escape, and how their relationship developed. The chemistry between them was so hot and all-consuming, I think my pages began to smolder.

To find more information about this author, please visit her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com or her web page at www.zannie.net.

Aemelia
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
November 2007

A LIMITED ENGAGEMENT by SaraLee Etter

2009-07-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

A LIMITED ENGAGEMENT
SARALEE ETTER
Regency Romance
Cerridwen Press
ISBN# 9781419911590
$5.95
eBook/Available now

Rating: 4 Enchantments

Palms sweaty, nerves jittery, butterflies in her stomach - it was opening night at the Elysium Theater. Miranda was making her acting debut as Hermia in “A Midsummer Nights Dream”, at her brother-in-law Edward’s theater. If she succeeded, it would mean that she could have a career, a chance to be independent.

Justin, Lord Devereux, needed money, and he needed money fast. He wasn’t due to come into his inheritance until his 35th birthday, a long way off. There was a prime piece of property that he wanted to buy, which he knew would not be on the market long. Justin decided to approach his uncle, Lord Meresford, for an early advancement of his funds. The answer is no, he is too young. But were Justin to become engaged to a respectable young lady, he may be persuaded into dissolving the trust early, so long as his wife, Lady Meresford, also approved of the match.

While Miranda and her sister, Mary, are scrambling to find a way to raise money to release Edward from prison, Justin is confronted by his aunt, Lady Meresford, and her new “charge” Lettice Tenley. To escape Lettice’s scheming, Justin quickly made up an imaginary fiancée. He hires Miranda to act as his fiancée until he could convince his uncle to dissolve his trust. He also wanting to avoid marriage with Lettice. Miranda jumped at the opportunity to earn enough money to bail her brother-in-law out of prison.

This was not a bad book, but it’s not one I will be reading again. While I found Miranda to be a warm and loving character, Justin came off as cold and stand-offish. I’m really not sure when they fell in love. My favorite character was Miranda’s nephew, Anthony; too bad nobody would listen to him!

I give credit to Ms. Etter for keeping me interested, I really did want to see what Miss Lettice Tenley held over Justin’s aunt, Lady Meresford, but I found the writing a little over-dramatic for my tastes, it was like reading a spoof of a romance - very cliché. I think the kicker for me was the “Scooby-Doo” ending “Everything would have worked perfectly if it hadn’t been for that abominable brat.” I did crack me up - I do love the Scooby gang, but I’m not sure that was the author’s intention. To find out more about this author and the books she has written, you can visit her on the web at http://www.saraleeetter.com/.

Aemelia
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
November 2007

SHADOW OF A DOUBT by Karen McCullough

2009-06-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

SHADOW OF A DOUBT
KAREN MCCULLOUGH
Romantic Suspense
Cerridwen Press
Sensuality Rating: Sexy
ISBN# 1-4199-0684-4
eBook - Available now

Rating: 3 Enchantments

Detective Liz Ramsey is one focused police professional, until she meets Greg Conyers, an artist with a troubled soul and more. Torn between solving a slew of mounting murders and her ever growing desire to be Greg’s savior from himself, she almost succumbs to an end that could destroy them both. Only in the end does she find and battle the dark lurking monster within Greg, saving both the job and the man she loves.

Ms. McCullough masterfully brings to light the darkness and passion that is deep within us all. In SHADOW OF A DOUBT, she has created a true page turner that challenges the reader to look beyond the obvious until the bitter end. Balancing fiction with fact, she has created a truly unique romance-detective story.

Rowan
ENCHANTING REVIEWS
October 2007

THE MERRY WIDOW by Adriana Kraft

2009-06-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

THE MERRY WIDOW
ADRIANA KRAFT
Contemporary Erotic Romance
Whiskey Creek Press Torrid
Sensuality Rating: Torrid
ISBN# 978-1-60313-174-2
272 pages
Price: N/A (ARC)
eBook - Releasing January 2008

Rating: 4.5 Enchantments

Merry Delaney is a recently widowed accountant. Though alone now, Merry is no stranger to loneliness. She’s been by herself, especially in her bed, for many years, ever since her husband had been diagnosed with a debilitating disease. However, it’s time for her to stop mopping around, and her best friend Camille knows just what Merry needs – sex. And lo and behold, good sex does not necessarily imply a man. Camille, a confirmed bisexual, introduces Merry to the world of Girls’ Night Out.

Detective Jim Barnes does not know Merry Delaney. That is, until an investigation leads him to her. The mob has been using her accountancy skills, unbeknownst to her, to skim money. Jim needs her to help him, and Merry agrees. However, Jim also knows he needs to keep a close eye on Merry. What if she went to the mob and tipped them off? However, he’s in for more than he bargained for, and it is to a long list of sexual dates, both male and female, that he is privy to while in surveillance.

There comes a time when Jim can no longer contain his desire for the adventurous Merry. Merry herself did not imagine she would have such a wild streak. She indulges in her newfound sexual freedom and liberation. Until the day Jim steps into her life as more than a cop, but as a fiery lover. Can the passion between them survive Merry’s need for independence? And what to make of the mob’s escalating threats on her person?

THE MERRY WIDOW is one very merry romp. The heat sizzles and burns off almost every page. Be prepared to need lots of cooling aid when reading this one! However, despite the almost non-ending sexual prowess related in the story, the author does manage to convey a physical and human dimension to the characters. The romance between Merry and Jim is nothing short of sweet, well, okay, if you overlook the sultry blaze that lights up at every encounter.

Definitely a good read, but one that will leave the reader hot, hot, hot!

Zee
Enchanting Reviews
October 2007

MY EYES ONLY by Judith Otto

2009-06-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

MY EYES ONLY
JUDITH OTTO
Young Adult Adventure Romance
Whiskey Creek Press
ISBN# 978-1-59374-129-7
190 pages
Price: N/A (ARC)
eBook - Available October 2007

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Mandy Rossiter is a on the point of taking a giant leap into the unknown world of adolescence. The era is the 1950s.

Her story starts with the gift of a diary from her best friend, Sally. From this point on, she’ll record everything that happens to her, from the trivial to the important. And also, she’ll put her secrets in the diary, secrets even Sally won’t know of.

As Mandy embarks on her journey, the world is changing around her. Her friends are wearing makeup, trousers, and going out with boys. Mandy’s parents are old fashioned and forbid her from doing all this.

Yet, Mandy has discovered the fascination which boys present to adolescent girls. There is the older, stovepipe-wearing, slicked back hair and dressed-in-black guy she meets while on vacation, who gives her her first real kiss. Then back home, there is sweet and handsome Gary, who wants her as his steady girlfriend. Then there is Roger, the bad boy spelling trouble.
There is the journey of discovery, complete with the lure of adventure and the thrilling temptation of seduction... It is also a time of love, sweet kisses, and betrayal.

While I will admit that at the start of the book I wasn’t too keen on this story, I cannot recall where Mandy Rossiter pulled me into her world and made me want to stay there. Ms. Otto writes in a poignant way which makes the reader feel Mandy as if she was there and the reader was her best friend. The reader is taken along this journey, and sometimes is terribly frustrated to be only a silent observer, wanting at times to laugh with Mandy, bash her on the head when she is about to do something stupid, and cry with her when her life goes hay wire.

Mandy’s story is one any woman can relate to, because we’ve all been there at one point, be it in different eras or decades. At heart, Mandy is the girl in us.

Thanks Ms. Otto for having caught this elusive essence of growing up in this book.

Zee
Enchanting Reviews
October 2007

TO LOVE AN OUTLAW by Roxanne Springer

2009-06-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

TO LOVE AN OUTLAW
ROXANNE SPRINGER
Western Erotic Romance/Historical
Whiskey Creek Press Torrid
Sensuality Rating: Torrid
ISBN# 978-1-59374-990-3 (eBook)
ISBN# 978-1-59374-990-3 (Trade Paperback)
$6.99/$15.95 paperback
446 pages
Releasing December 2007

Rating: 3.5 Enchantments

Jessica Randall is a young widow. Beautiful and strong, she mourns and pays homage to her deceased husband. Though alone, she knows she can make it, and tends to her farm almost single handedly. Jessica is not a recluse, but she isn’t too social either, living at a distance from the nearby town.

Until the stormy night when a man knocks on her door. His name is John Budreau and he is injured. He requests her help, and Jessica acquiesces. However, something else is shared between them, and that is an undeniable attraction.

Jessica allows her woman’s heart to come out of its painful and lonely mourning, and it is with renewed vigor that the same heart now beats for the handsome John. When he decides to stay back for a while as hired hand on her farm, both he and Jessica allow the simmering appeal for each other to gain ground.

They eventually fall in love. Yet, the enigmatic John carries and hides a secret so terrible it would tear the very heart he now cherishes - Jessica’s. Should he reveal his secret, there will be no future for them. And a future with Jessica is precisely what he now yearns for.

Both Jessica and John are very lovable characters. They have both been depicted with flair and humanness. The story reserves some very powerful twists and turns, some of which the reader will not see coming. The eventful dimension of the story however does tend to lag and drag in some instances, and in some places, the recovery is rather lacking. However, all this might be overlooked in the light of Ms. Springer’s particular brand of realistic and very detail-oriented descriptions of historical life.

Zee
Enchanting Reviews
October 2007

LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON by Bruce Cooke

2009-06-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON
BRUCE COOKE
Romance Contemporary
Whiskey Creek Press
ISBN# 978-1-59374-072-6
Price: N/A (ARC)
200 pages
eBook - Available October 2007

Rating: 5 Enchantments

Life is bleak, grey and ugly for fifty-year old widow Joanne Montgomery. Not wanting to hurt their children with the stark, ugly truth about their father, she carries the burden of his infidelities and abusive streak alone. Depression lurks like a pernicious cloak around her, and she often seeks solace in the bottle. Until the day Ritchie steps into her life.

Richard Collins, better known as Ritchie, is fifty-three years old and a divorced father of three. Ritchie has brought his kids up single handedly, and there has never really been time for him to seek more from life. When he meets Joanne, Ritchie knows she is his second chance at love.

From here starts a quest to win over first Joanne’s trust, then her love, both of which he gains after his relentless pursuit of her. Joanne, wary of love, finally falls for Ritchie. Things couldn’t be better – if only her daughter Becky could be happy for her. Becky held her father in saintly light, and she is aghast at her mother being with another man, especially Ritchie, whom she views with much distrust. To further stir things up, Ritchie’s gold-digging ex-wife steps back into the picture. She’s been ditched by her latest lover, and wants back into Ritchie’s life. She won’t let a small obstacle like Joanne stand in her way, and she convinces Joanne she and Ritchie are back together.

Joanne is hurt and feels betrayed. She withdraws from the relationship. But Ritchie is not ready to let her go, at least not without putting up a fight. He will expose the lies keeping them apart, come hell or high water.

Here is one story with an apparently simple plot. Simple? Not so much. While I will admit the plot is rather uncomplicated, there is a big surprise awaiting all the readers, and this is the author’s delightful writing voice. Mr. Cooke’s mastery of relationships and the characters he creates in Love in the Afternoon is simply to be applauded. Rarely have I read of a hero more worthy of being termed a hero – Ritchie, despite being in the afternoon of life, is a man any woman would find hard not to fall for. The interaction of the characters in this set-up is simply marvelous, especially where Ritchie and his daughter Sally are concerned. I had one laugh after another with these two.

This is one story to curl up with and read in one single go. It will fill you with a soft warm glow, and you will fall in love along the way.

Zee
Enchanting Reviews
October 2007