Addicted To Romance

Down London Road is a story that is just as good as the first book!! I had so much fun with this one. It does have a angst romantic feel to it, but in all honesty, This is a mix of Contemporary and New Adult, but you don’t really see the difference, its a subtle change and the flow of the story is smooth enough that you don’t get confused. This is Johanna’s story, and in the frist book I remember admiring her character quite a bit, she adds a bit of zest and boy did she really make this story spectacular. Both of the main characters did, but we see more of Johanna’s life and day-to-day goings, and so we see what she has to struggle with on a daily basis. The author does a wonderful job of having the reader so enthralled by the story that you get involved in each of the characters, and the emotions conveyed are so vividly real at times. There is one issue that I had with this story, I am not big on cheating AT ALL!! Well both Johanna and Cameron upon meeting each other both have people they are in relationships with, but they don’t act on what they are feeling until they end the relationships they are in currently. So I was alright with this circumstance and the author spins the story in such a way that become endeared instantly to their situation. We do have a villain in the story, and it adds a twist to the complexities of their relationship, and we get a ex involved in the mix, as well as the matchmaking of Jocelyn and Braden. We see a level of falling in love that isn’t easy, and many stumbling blocks this pair have to get through before they reach their happy ending. But I promise it does happen. Down London Road is a romance that I had quite a fun time with, with the angsty bantering, the fun-loving side characters, and the sensual relationship that forms between Johanna and Cameron.

For my full review, click the link below!! 

Once Upon A Billionaire is a bit unique from the other books, but has its own charm and style that captivates you. Now I had my own issues with this story, but quite frankly it was such an adorable modern fairy tale romance. I had a hard time not laughing through this story, it had its moments of witty come backs, endearing characters both main and side, and we see how being raised in a royal family may affect your personality and how you view others. This was a story that was very eye-opening, and we see a side to the “rich and titled” that you don’t normally see in books such as these. We see the negative side to living in a palace and all the proprieties that come with it. Along those lines we also see some positives as well, how inner strength can aide in this type of environment. At first, I had a challenge in liking the hero, he was quite mean and rude and needed a huge dose of fun. But we see that he gets that big dose and her name is Maylee. Now Maylee was so adorable, and I love how open and accepting she is. She also isn’t ashamed of her own personality or fashion style, she is true to who she really is. She has this affectionate nature that rubs off on Griff in ways you don’t see coming. What I also had fun was the secondary characters. We see how they play a integral part in the story, both the villains and the characters that win your heart, most especially the cousin that is getting married and her fiancée. There is a slow process of these two falling for each other, it isn’t quick or easy, and we have some hurdles they need to overcome, the biggest issue these two have is loving each other for who they really are, and that does come in slow increments. Also another aspect of the story I enjoyed was how Griffin won my heart in the end. He makes quite a few mistakes, but quite frankly, he owns up to them, he realizes when he hurts Maylee, and makes true efforts to become better and treat her with kindness more often. He may be a jerk but he doesn’t mean to be. He has this sincerity about him, and he is very clueless how to handle Maylee and struggles with her, but I felt like in the end, he is a hero that wins the reader over if you stick with him through the end.

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This is a story that I wanted to love and even though I did love parts of the story, overall it was an average read for me, it felt a little flat and considering this is one of my favorite authors, it’s quite a disappointment. I have enjoyed seeing how this series has progressed, but with each book I have felt less and less interested, and I had too high hopes for this one. And I just want to say I have been waiting for Niall’s book for quite some time. Niall along with some other Scotsman, were transported from medieval Scotland to modern Maine. He has come to Spellbound Falls, and is the chief of police and his neighbor, is a pain in his backside, a woman out for women’s rights…Birch Callahan. When we learn of Birch’s history with men, most especially the men her mother has been married to but all four husbands ended up being scumbags….and only her birth father is the only man she has ever loved or respected. There were many scenes that were quite fun to read and boy can Niall and Birch go at it. The quick-witted bantering and the easy-going playfulness that these two characters tend to have with each other….was enough to keep me interested. As a bonus we get many characters from previous books and love seeing these characters again. The two main characters are both equally matched, they each have their own interests and goals, and we see how despite their differences, they work best together and not fighting each other. I did enjoy seeing the fun banter, but after so long it got too old, meaning that it was too much. I did enjoy Niall way more than Birch though. She was a bit of a harpy and she tended to be too harsh in her judgments, she didn’t really soften until the very end. But as an overall read, it didn’t come to par as Janet Chapman’s usual style, so I felt disappointed. I will still read her in the future, and maybe I will re read her previous books before I read her next book coming up later this year. I would still recommend this author, and try out her earlier books (because they are outstanding) and I hope the next book of hers sings to me better!!

The Wrong Billionaire’s Bed is Reese’s and Audrey’s story. I wasn’t sure how much I would love this story, but did it surprise me. I usually don’t like the “I think I am in love with someone but have a passionate affaire with another man” scenarios. But Jessica Clare handles to intricate complexities of the plot very well. The tension between Audrey and Reese is quite entertaining, they like to goat each other, and tend to bring out certain responses in each other. The sparks are quite hot at times, and boy do they sizzle at times. One of the aspects I loved most about this one, was seeing a different side to Audrey. Reese is pretty much the same as we have seen him in the previous books…but Audrey really changes in this story. We see her become more comfortable with herself, and accept every part of herself. Reese balances her out, and Audrey calms Reese down a bit. I really adored this part of their relationship, seeing how they compliment each other in a way that just works seamlessly. We also see hints of Reese’s future story. The actual building of the relationship is quite different in this story than the previous others, but it works pretty smoothly with the plot, and we see quite some entertaining moments that wins your heart over.

Marked is the last and final installment in the series, and what a ride, and what a conclusion. Technically there is a novella after this one. But Marked is the final full length novel in the series. I have been looking forward to Janie’s and Zane’s story since we first see them. And of course we have quite a few surprises and conflicts added into the mix that just makes the story even more interesting. This isn’t your average love story, its packed with crazy villains but a couple that surprise you, we see more of the previous characters in the series, and what a romance that is put front and center. There is quite a bit of conflict going against Zane and Janie, and it almost seems impossible for them to reach their HEA. There is quite a bit they have to accomplish and win before they have a hope of a future. We see some questions answered and the series got wrapped up pretty nicely. I loved the conclusion, and seeing Janie finally get her HEA, and what was most interesting about this one was seeing everything fall into place. I enjoyed seeing Zane and Janie fight for one another, in different ways, but they are equally matched and both determined to win the upcoming battles.

For my full review, click the link below. 

Shadowed is a story I knew was going to be dang good and boy was I right about this book!! Whew, did I love just about everything about it. Another fabulous addition to the series that Zanetti has created for us here. Shadowed follows the previous book a little bit after, some time has gone by. Jase, has been rescued and been healing since he got back. But he is full of anger and uncontrolled rage. We see how his time with the demons has affected him. In some ways the easy-going brother is gone, and a more powerful vampire has taken his place. A vampire that does what needs to be done, no matter what. Even if that means mating with a woman he doesn’t love. It seems like just about everyone is against their mating, including some of her coven members. Even though it seems like a practical arrangement, it doesn’t turn out that way. And it seems that these two are destined for more. Love the way this author weaved this story and told a tale of redemption and the healing power of love. What made the most impact on me was the change in their relationship despite the chaos surrounding them. It’s a ongoing and steady change, and you slowly see it changing from something practical to a very emotional and powerful bond these two start to build with each other.

Want to learn more about my thoughts on Shadowed...click the link below!! 

This is a “beauty and the beast” themed story but in a contemporary setting. Which I actually love this trope, and even though it can be overdone, I loved the way that Jessica Clare wrote this one. In the previous book, we see the beginning of the story happening, so it was fun seeing it just start off from where the first book left off. Beauty and the Billionaire, is a story that won my heart with every page written. I loved the different feel to this story from the first book. We have the Beauty (Gretchen), and the Beast (Hunter), and at first they don’t see much of each other, but Gretchen grows more bolder, and Hunter becomes more open to her advances, and it was quite entertaining seeing these two come together finally. There are quite a few obstacles that they need to overcome before they have any hope of getting their HEA, but they find it, and what a beautiful way it is found too. I love the flow of the story, and the writing just kept me reading and this was such a page turner, I had the most difficult time putting it down. This author has a talented way with her writing of captivating her audience. I found these two characters to be just wonderful for each other, and boy some of the bedroom scenes are quite thrilling and sexy, but what I loved most was seeing the love story to be the primary focus of the story, and seeing it grow and bloom was quite fun. Another great aspect was seeing the way this story comes together, it was very riveting at times, and kept me on tinder hooks, and it also gave us a little teaser at the end for the third book which I am very excited for now.

Want to know more about this title, read my full review below. 

Desiny’s Embrace is the first book in the Destiny trilogy. This is a trilogy based on the three Yates Brothers. I recently read the third book and I loved it so much I knew I needed to read the other two brothers. This is an author I have loved ever since I started reading romance, in fact she is one of those first authors I read that got me hooked, and she is very talented on interracial romances, she has a beautiful way of weaving love stories that win the reader over instantly. In this book we have quite a whopper of a romance. What was most entertaining was seeing these two go at it, These are equally matched in tempers and tend to go half cocked at times, both stubborn and passionate about what they believe in, and I loved the quick witted bantering and seeing these two fall for each other. It’s techinically a angst romance, but it has a bit more lighter tone to it than the typical angst romance. The supporting characters in the story added some fun to the story as well. And we do get to meet the brothers and I just cheered for Mariah at the end there…don’t want to spoil anything, but she really came through.

For The Full Review...Click the link below. 

Dream Hunter is the first book in the Dream Hunter series. My local state has an audio book library, and I found this treasure available, and since I have yet to read the series, I thought that I needed to give it a try. This book was a riot of fun, passion and some Greek adventure. This series is connected to the Dark Hunter series, and we see in this book and other books in the series, connection to characters to the Dark Hunter series. Dream Hunter is a story that just won my heart over from the beginning, And the narrator, is one that from what I have seen has done most of the books in these connecting series, and he is fantastic. It is rare for me to love a male narrator, since I have mostly listened to female narrators, but he is one of the best I have ever listened to. I loved the way this story develops, and it has some twists that are unexpected, and boy was I surprised over a few things, and what became most endearing was seeing how these two fight for a future together. Dream Hunter is a story that won me over, with these charming characters, a story line that is packed with adventure, greek gods, and a romance that is bound to captivate you. What was most provocative about this story was seeing the way these two come to fight for one another. Arik, who at first is conceited and arrogant, but when he learns the error of his ways is willing to give up his own soul for the woman he loves. Then we have Megeara, when she learns the complete truth about Arik, she goes to drastic lengths to bring him back to her, even if that means facing Hades herself, loved the courage and tenacity and the will to be together. The supporting characters are quite fun and added a certain flair to the story that gave the story the humorous edge it needed.

For More on Dream Hunter see my full review click the link below. 

Plot and Story Line 

I have been hearing some great things about this series, so I decided to read the first book up, and boy did I love this story. It just kept me so interested and involved, and the authors writing is superb…I love the way she makes the reader fall in love with the story. I am not always a big fan of billionaire romances, they have to be done right, and despite my reservations, I fell for this story hard. I loved everything about it. From the island fling that Logan and Bronte have, to making love in a freezer, how Bronte wins over his friends, and the way she gets Logan to become humble…and even the signs of another love story that is in the next book. What was most fun about this story was seeing how Logan and Bronte flounded their way through a relationship, both side makes mistakes but I found that most endearing…seeing them make mistakes but still find a way to work as a team and make a future together. There was many aspects of their relationship that was easy to relate with in a very realistic way. From beginning to end, I found myself falling in love with this story…with its charm and poignant love story…its guaranteed to warm your heart.

The Cover 

I honestly don’t know what I think about this one. In all honest I like it, I don’t mind a little bling-bling, but what my issue is how it relates with the story. I do prefer something that connects better with the story and characters. So as of right now I am undecided if I love it or not.

Overall View 

Stranded With A Billionaire is a charming love story that shows how love tests us all in ways we don’t quite imagine. This is a love story that promotes passion and raw emotion, and learning to trust again. Heartwarming from beginning to end!!

Summary 

Lady Lucy Upton, is considered to bold and outspoken and is considered a “wallflower”, Lucy has always been daring enough to speak her mind. When one of her two closest friends, Cassandra, is being pursued by the Duke of Claringdon, when she is interested in another man, but the Duke is being persistent, so Cassandra’s asks for Lucy’s help in deterring his advances. So Lucy comes up with various ways to discourage Derek Hunt. Derek’s best friend Julian, made him promise on his deathbed, to take care of Cassandra and marry her, knowing that his friend doesn’t have much longer to live, he tries to make good on his promise, but Cassandra doesn’t stir his blood like her friend Lucy does. Their quick-witted bantering, makes him want to second guess his decision to marry Cassandra, but he is split in two…one over honor or love…will Lucy and Derek find a way to be together despite the odds against them…

The Hero 

Derek Hunt grew up in a military family, he and all of his brothers have served in the military. Derek became the Duke of Claringdon, through intelligence and creativity on the battlefield, and never imagined that he would be part of London’s most elite society. Derek knows that being the Duke holds great responsibility, but with his men missing on a mission, including his younger brother, Derek has been commanded to stay in London. Derek is a character that is smart and cunning, and is determined to win Cassandra. What was most likeable about Derek was his sense of humor and the way he could laugh at himself.

The Heroine 

Lucy Upton, had to train herself to act like a man. she is bold and free-spoken, she doesn’t care what others think of her. She hasn’t exactly been the toast of the Ton since she met with the queen which was a total disaster. Lucy, lost her only sibling when she was a child, and ever since has never been able to make her parents proud of her. Lucy was a character, that I truly loved seeing in this story. She is Derek’s match in every way…boy she is opinionated, strong-willed and stubborn…a delighful combination. She is loyal to her friends and would do anything for their happiness…you don’t see that kind of loyalty every day.

Plot and Story Line 

What was most enjoyable about The Unexpected Duchess was the way that Derek and Lucy developed a relationship. We see how these two go at it and quite wildly too. Boy do they have a way with words…its almost like they each have the encyclopedia memorized and being able to recall in instantly. The Unexpected Duchess is a story that is engaging, witty and completely pulls you in. I had no problem loving this one, and as this is my first Valerie Bowman book…I can tell you it won’t be my last. I am fully excited to try out Cassandra’s story next. What this story did for me was make a regency romance come alive for me in the same way that Lisa Kleypas and Sabrina Jeffries can do for me. From the first page or two I was hooked especially on the bantering between Lucy and Derek. But there was something more to this story than just a romance that intrigued me and kept me involved…it was the friendship. It is very difficult to make and keep friends like these three have managed to done. Each of them are a bit different, you have the outspoken one, the gentle and sweet and the bookworm. Allt three of them I felt a kinship to, and boy could I have a ton of fun with these outstanding ladies. They love and support each other in their endeavors, no matter what it is…that is true friendship. We also have a sub plot occurring in the story, of three men that are under Derek’s command, and we see how that develops and we still don’t get the full mystery revealed in this story, so I hope we get some more clues on that in the next book. So if your new to historical romance, or to this author….try her out…I guarantee you will have one adventure of wits and battles with words.

The Cover 

Oh how I adore this cover…its simply gorgeous. The male is simple one nice piece of maleness…those toned shoulders and arms….yummy. And her dress…love the color, and the beautiful bow….love the way it flows down the back of her dress. What do you think of this cover?

Overall View 

In The Unexpected Duchess we see a story that is a delightful mix of sexual tension, witty dialogue, heartwarming characters, and a romance to send you into a swoon….positively DELIGHTFUL!!

Summary 

Shay, is half human and half shallot, and as such she is highly prized. With the witches dead, she has been returned back to the troll, who holds the curse over her. A curse that has kept her a slave for years…she aches to be free and live her own life, which has been taken from her because of the potent blood she carries. When she goes on auction, her new buyer, is the one vampire that is her weakness…Viper. Viper is drawn to Shay, and wants her, so he buys her, hoping to repay the debt when she saved his life. But Viper and Shay are drawn into a game of death and danger, there is an enemy out there, that needs Shay to survive, and Viper will do everything in his power to save her no matter what the cost to himself. But their enemy knows Viper, knows his strengths and weaknesses, and soon it will take Viper, Shay, their friends and even a crazy gargoyle to survive the coming tide..

The Hero 

Viper, is a vampire chief, a vampire that is charismatic and easy-going, lover of women of all kinds, and see the beauty of Shay. He adores her, and he knows that he will do anything to keep her safe. Viper has dedicated centuries of his life to becoming who he is. Viper is a character we fall in love with in the first book. We see him as a vampire leader, that is commanding and has his own “harem” of women. He doesn’t lack for sex in any time frame…he is sexy and quick-witted, and knows how to have a good time. What was wonderful about Viper is that he is way deeper than you see in the first book. He cares about his people and the humans, he treats Shay as a woman with intelligence rather than a slave. I love the way he is with her, so engaging and consuming, and his character is everything you want to see in a alpha….but a alpha that knows how to play and have fun, and can work a good weapon in his hands….everything you need.

The Heroine 

Shay, with her mother being human and her father being Shallot, she has always been highly prized because of her “blood”. For a long while, she had a curse set on her, and this curse a certain greedy troll controls. She has lost both of her parents, but her father whom she adored was killed for his blood. Shay is drawn into a world where she is hunted  and only Viper is strong enough to protect her. Shay was a heroine that is still strong-willed despite how she has been treated. Being treated and sold as a slave hasn’t broken her, only made her stronger. I loved her resilience and tenacity to keep fighting, no matter what.

Plot and Story Line 

Embrace The Darkness is the second installment in the series, and it continues off from where the last one ended. This is Vipers story, and what a character he was. What was most fascinating about this story, was seeing Shay and Viper come together. It wasn’t how I expected it to be, so I loved not being able to predict what will happen next (tends to happen in a few paranormals), but what was most fun was the fun and silly bantering between these two. It was quite engaging and will give you giggle and laughs, because these two are a great pair…whether they are fighting enemies or making love…they have a certain connection that is almost harmonious. They equal each other out, and it was very satisfying seeing the balance of their relationship form and become cemented. The supporting cast was quite fun, we get the mini gargoyle, who is three feet tall and loves goading Viper. Then of course we get Dante and Abby and see a bit more of them, which was fun seeing them together after the previous book. The villain of the story isn’t what he appears to be, and I really liked the twist at the end, and seeing a character that appears to be bad who is really more misguided through loyalty….love the way the story climaxes and ends because it leaves you wanting to read the next book right away.

The Cover 

Even though this isn’t my favorite cover of the series…I do love the red tints in the cover, and those eyes!! Love em’

Overall View 

Embrace The Darkness is a stunning installment from this author…a story to entice, an edgy vampire romance to give you thrills and chills…a story that gives you a perfect blend of spicy romance, engaging characters, and dangerous villains right around the corner!! MAGNIFICENT

When An Alpha Purrs is the newest book release from this author…its the first of a new series, and in this installment we have the Alpha’s story. We do know that there will be atleast three books in this series. I love a great shifter romance, and even though this is a bit shorter than I was expecting…it was still enjoyable. This was such a enjoyable story, one that was short and sweet and very delectable. What I found most intriguing about this story, was seeing how Arik and Kira get along with each other…and boy was their bantering fun and sexy. They definitely have some sizzles and chemistry happening, but in the beginning we see the playfullness of their relationship…and boy Kira is fantastic, she sure knows how to bring a male down a peg or two from his arrogance. And below I wanted to share this most delicious excerpt so you can get a taste of how they react to each other…which is very similar to the rest of the story. But we also have a added elemnt, Kira has a ex wolf lover that is crazy, a stalker and has abused and tormented her in the past. She has been living on the run from him. But when she is put in danger…Arik goes into Alpha lion mode….and let no wolf stand in his way. Even though at times I felt like something was missing from this story (probably due to the short length) I found it quite a entertaining one, and had me bursting out in laughter…these two were a riot together. So this is perfect for a lazy afternoon…that is quick reading, entertaining and lively in humor and plot.

EXCERPT

“What do you mean Dominic isn’t here?” Arik didn’t quite raise his voice, and yet everyone in the barbershop heard him and noted his displeasure. Heads ducked, hands busied themselves snipping and styling, and no one dared meet his gaze.

If they were lion shifters, he would have said it was because they recognized his alpha status—say hello to the king of the concrete jungle. But these were only regular humans, people easily cowed by a man in an expensive suit with a commanding attitude.

Except for one.

“Granddad is out west.”

The woman’s reply had him spinning, and he inhaled sharply, which drew in more than just the scent of the barbershop. It drew in her tempting aroma—and stirred a hunger that had nothing to do with food.

Smells delicious. For a human.

Standing at just over five and a half feet, the woman barely reached his chin. She didn’t let her shortness deter her. Her head tilted. The chin raised, almost defiantly, as she met his stare. Brown eyes framed in dark lashes didn’t turn from his amber-hued ones.

Someone’s got spirit. But he didn’t have time to explore how far her attitude and bravery went. There were more important matters clamoring for his attention. Such as his poor, shaggy mane.

“What do you mean he’s out west? I have an appointment.” People didn’t cancel his appointments. Nor did they make him wait. The perks of being top of the heap.

“My Aunt Cecily had her baby early. He took some time off to go meet his new grandson.”

A decent excuse, but still… “But what about my hair?” That might have emerged more plaintively than he’d like. However, who could blame him? They were talking about his precious luxurious mane that required a regular trim lest the ends grow ragged, or, worse, a split end dared to make an appearance.

Vanity, one of his faults, along with arrogance and an unwillingness to budge.

“No need to worry, big guy. I’m taking over Granddad’s appointments while he’s gone.”

“You?” A girl, cut his hair? He couldn’t help but laugh, the idea too ridiculous to contemplate.

“I’m sorry. I fail to see the entertainment.”

“You can’t seriously expect me to trust my mane to a woman?” Sexism, alive and well in Arik’s world, the fault of the females in his pride who’d raised him. No coddling for Arik. They didn’t believe in letting him play with dolls or caving to others. His mother and aunts, not to mention his numerous female cousins, had taught him to be tough. They didn’t allow softness in his world, not when they groomed him as the future leader of their pride.

He was all male, all the time, and dammit, a man used a barber, not a hairdresser. Even if she was cute.

“Suit yourself. I’ve got more than enough men to take care of—”

Was that his cat growling?

“—without adding a pompous one to the list.”

“Pompous?” Even if she’d pegged him right, it didn’t stop his indignant glare.

A glare she chose to ignore. She crossed her arms over her chest, plumping her cleavage—ooh, pretty, shadowy cleft. His curious nature drew his eyes to the mysterious and beckoning vee until she cleared her throat.

“My eyes are up here, big guy.”

Caught. Good thing he was a cat. His kind had no shame, nor did they apologize. He shot her his most engaging, boyish grin. “My name is Arik. Arik Castiglione.”

She didn’t react to his smile or titles, so he elaborated, “The CEO for Castiglione Enterprises.” He stretched his lips wide enough to engage his deadly dimple.

And still failed to impress.

She raised a brow. “Is that supposed to mean something?”

Surely she jested. Within his mind, his poor lion lay down in a traumatized heap and crossed its paws over its eyes.

“We are the largest importer of meat in the world.”

Her shoulders lifted in a shrug. “I don’t check the label to see who brings me my steak. I just eat it.”

“What about our chain of restaurants? A Lion’s Pride Steakhouses.”

“Those I’ve heard of. Decent, I hear, but overpriced. I can get a bigger plate of food at LongHorn. And according to my girlfriends, the male waiters are cuter too.”

For once, Arik found himself at a loss for words. His lion on the other hand? His mane was definitely ruffled—and itching.

Arik had already gone two weeks longer than usual for this haircut because of an overseas business trip. Time to get back to his highest priority. “How long until Dominic is back?”

“A week, maybe two. I told him to take his time. Granddad doesn’t often take time off, and he’s getting up there in years.”

A few weeks? He’d look like a wildebeest if he waited that long. “That’s no good. I need a cut. Are there any male barbers available?”

“Afraid to let a girl touch your precious hair?” She smirked. “I can peek at the schedule and see if we can squeeze you in this afternoon.”

“I don’t have time to come back. I need it done now.”

Usually when he used the word now, people jumped to do his bidding. She, on the other hand, shook her head.

“Not happening, unless you’ve changed your mind and are willing to let me cut it.”

“You’re a hairdresser.”

“Exactly.”

“I want a barber.”

“Same thing.”

Said the girl without a Y chromosome. “I think I’ll wait.”

Arik turned away from her, only to freeze as she muttered, “Pussy.”

If she only knew how right she was. But, of course, she didn’t mean the feline version.

Pride made him pivot back. “You know what. On second thought, you may cut my hair.”

“How gracious of you, Your Majesty.” She sketched him a mock bow.

Not funny, even if accurate. He glared in reply.

“I see someone’s too uptight for a sense of humor.”

“I greatly enjoy comedy, when I hear it.”

“Sorry if my brand of sarcasm is too simple for you to understand, big guy. Now, if you’re done, sit down so we can get this over with and send you and your precious hair back to your office.”

A woman giving him orders? Not uncommon when a male lived surrounded by them. But actually obeying, that was new – and in this case, unavoidable.

Head held regally high, Arik took the proffered seat, putting his back to the female, but he could still watch her in the mirror and track her by scent. Coconut lotion, fabric softener, and musky woman. All woman.

My woman. Want to taste.

His lion grumbled in hunger. Odd because Arik had eaten a hearty breakfast, even wrestling his beta, Hayder, for the last two pieces of bacon.

The hairdresser swirled a fabric cape around his upper body, swathing him in protection against snipped tickly bits. So far the same as usual, except Dominic’s mere presence never had Arik’s body so aware. The light touch of her fingers at his nape as she fastened the Velcro closure caused all the hairs on his body to stiffen. And they weren’t the only thing standing at attention.

Before he could wonder at his reaction, she withdrew her hand and busied herself with her tray of instruments. Razor, scissors, brush, comb. But forget the manly black colors a barber would use. Her tools were pink and black, zebra striped.

The indignity of it. He almost said something but held his tongue, only because he could see her watching and waiting for it in the mirror. As if he’d give her the satisfaction. This cat held his own tongue—for now.

The hairdresser sifted her fingers through his long strands, lifting and studying the various layers Dominic usually cut into it. Unlike many businessmen, Arik preferred to keep his golden mane somewhat long. Funny how many of his lovers had told him it gave him a leonine appearance—if only they knew the truth.

“How much are we taking off?”

As little as possible, given he still didn’t trust her. “About a half inch or so. Just even up the ends.” That should tide him over until Dominic returned.

“Are you sure?” She frowned at his crown, as she held long strands up. “You look like you could use at least two inches off, if not more.”

How did she know? Arik usually kept his mane to a civilized length that just touched the top of his collar.

“I’m sure.”

“You know, a man your age really should have a more mature cut. The shaggy surfer style is more suited to young guys.”

He dug his fingers into the armrest and fought not to growl. “I like my hair like this.”

“Suit yourself. I was just saying you’d look better with a shorter cut.”

Shave his precious mane? Never! “Do you always argue with your clients?”

Her eyes met his in the mirror, and he wasn’t surprised to see a smile lurking at the corners of her lips. “Only when they’re wrong.”

That surprised a bark of laughter from him. Despite his irritation with the situation, and her outspoken nature, he grudgingly liked Dominic’s granddaughter. “Very well. You may cut it a little shorter than a half inch. But not much shorter. I do not want to end up scalped.”

“For a man your age and in your position, you are way too obsessed with your hair,” she muttered as she bound sections of his mane with hairclips. Not exactly his most manly look.

Arik kept a close watch for anyone with a camera or cell phone. Dare to take a pic and he’d probably go furry.

Okay, he wouldn’t go furry in public, but he sure as hell would extract retribution. CEOs of billion-dollar corporations had an image to maintain, and pink hair clips holding his hair at crazy angles didn’t exactly fit it.

“How come I’ve never met you before?” Dominic had paraded a great number of his children and grandchildren through his barber shop over the years.

Attention focused on her hands, which wielded a set of scissors, she answered. “I don’t visit often. I live out in the Midwest with my mom and dad. I was actually working at a hair salon out there until it shut down, and Granddad offered me a job here.”

“You just packed up and moved?”

“Why not?” She released a layer of hair, and the scissors kept snipping. Golden bits flittered to the floor, and Arik tried to not tense. There was just as much hair strewn as when Dominic cut it. She seemed to know her business when it came to using scissors, but for some reason, he couldn’t shake his unease.

“Women should stay close to family.” His female family members certainly did, despite his best efforts to pawn them off onto other tribes and cities. Hell, he’d even tried to bribe some of his more rascally cousins with the promise of condos on other continents. However, the lionesses in his pride were content. A sign he was a good leader, but annoying as it meant they were constantly putting their whiskered noses in his business.

And they also loved to play matchmaker.

“When are you going to give us some cubs?” Not a day went by that he didn’t hear this.

“I’ve got a friend I want you to meet.” Fun for a night, until the next day when his cousin hammered him to make some kind of commitment.

The hairdresser reacted to his statement about a woman’s place with a snort. “Get with the times, big guy. We’re no longer strapped to a kitchen or forced into arranged marriages. We even get to vote. Girls nowadays often move away from home and have jobs. Or at least this one does.”

He couldn’t help but wince as she gave a decisive snip to his mane. So far, everything looked good. Yet he could have sworn ominous music hummed at the edges of his mind, feeding a certain dread he’d never admit aloud.

Scared of this woman and her scissors? Never. And his lion reinforced this with a very masculine rawr.

Still though, she’d essentially accused him of being a chauvinist. He explained himself. “I did not mean to sound misogynistic. I merely stated that women often find comfort in having family around them.”

“I do have family here.”

“Touché.” Then he couldn’t have said what prompted him to ask, “What of your boyfriend? I’m sure he’s not pleased at your abrupt departure.”

She paused and stared at him in the mirror. “Is this your not-so-subtle way of asking if I’m single?”

“Was I being subtle? Let me rephrase then. Do you have a lover?” He’d challenge him to a duel if she did and—

Hold on a second. He wasn’t challenging anyone, especially not the human boyfriend of a hairdresser he’d just met.

Just met, and yet wanted.

The realization made him frown. Time to hit the dating circuit again if a plump and mouthy human girl was capable of making him irrational. It didn’t help that his lion urged him to rub against her and mark her with their scent—to keep other males away.

Not happening. Marking any kind of female was bound to create complications. Arik wasn’t about to settle down or commit himself. He was in his prime. Playing the field.

Flirting with a hairdresser who set his hairs on end—and brought his erotic senses alive.

The things I could do to her. Nibbles on her creamy skin… Nips at that luscious lower lip, which pulled taut as she frowned at him and said, “First off, I don’t think my love life is any of your business.” Snip. “Second. Even if I were single, I wouldn’t date you.” Snip. Snip.

“Why not?” He could have blinked in astonishment when the query emerged from his mouth. However, a curious kitty needed to know. Women just didn’t say no. It wasn’t arrogant of him to claim it, not when it was fact.

Rejection was not something he encountered. Until now.

“Are you seriously having to ask why I won’t date you?” She sounded so incredulous. “Would you like me to recite the list alphabetically?”

Actually, he did. “Let’s hear it.”

Not even a pause. “Asshat. Braggart. Cocky tied with chauvinist. Dumbass. Egotistical. Do I really need to go on?”

A chuckle rumbled forth from him—again. What was it about this woman that delighted him? She kept arguing and defying him at every turn, and yet he couldn’t help but find her amusing. She utterly intrigued him, especially as he tried to guess what she’d say next. How refreshing to come across a female that wasn’t related to him, or impressed by him, who dared to treat him as a man.

One she considered beneath her standards.

“I think your list needs tweaking.” He launched a defense of his character.

“Oh really? And just how do you see yourself? I’m sure this will be good.”

“Let me see. Attractive, bold, courageous, daring, elegant, ferocious, especially as a lover,” he admitted with a wink. “Gallant.”

With a derisive snort, she interrupted. “Ha. I highly doubt that.”

“And yet you don’t really know me. My lady friends would tell you that I am a gentleman.” When it came to opening doors and picking up the check. Other than that, there was nothing gentle about him. Just ask those who crossed him.

Kings didn’t let anyone question their authority.

“I wouldn’t know, though, about this supposed gallantry, because I’m not your lady friend.”

“You could be.” He gave her another chance. She truly did draw him in with the roundness of her figure, hugged by faded denim and topped with a baggy sweatshirt that drooped enticingly off a shoulder, baring a black strap.

Lace or cotton? A feline mind wanted to know.

But apparently he wouldn’t know today, as she, yet again, managed to resist him.

“Date you? Not likely.”

Again words emerged from him without volition. “Why not?”

“Oh please. I’ve seen enough to know you’re not my type.”

Such a liar. Apparently he wasn’t the only one aroused by their repartee. The musky scent of her arousal tickled his senses. It made him bolder. “I guarantee when I’m between your thighs and you’re clawing my back, you’ll be screaming a different tune.”

So he might have come on a tad strong with that last statement. That was still no excuse for what happened next.

“Pig.” However it wasn’t the animal insult that was her most grievous crime. It was the gigantic hunk of hair she snipped off!

An irreplaceable, thick chunk of his hair permanently removed. Accidental or intentional, it didn’t matter.

Ack! My mane. My beautiful, precious mane.

He couldn’t help a low rumbling growl. His eyes glinted in the mirror, the gold catching the light and reflecting it, along with his fury.

“You. Did. Not. Just. Do. That.” And yes, he might have growled the last bit.

“Oops? Did I do that? Sorry.” Said with no repentance at all. With a smirk and a blown kiss, she let her crime rain down over him in a golden, threaded shower.

And then, she ran.

Summary 

Penelope Bridgemen, thought that when she married her husband, life couldn’t get any better. Then he died from madness, only six months after they married. Penelope devoted herself to educating on the workings of the mind, and working with those that suffered from mental disabilities due to effects from the war. When she hears that her husband’s cousin, Gabriel, has been put in a mad house, she is determined to save him. Gabriel, feels like he is losing a part of himself, every time the madness overtakes him. He is haunted by memories of the war and battles, with no hope of escaping where his life has led. During a fierce moment of madness, the only person that brings back his sanity, makes him feel safe, is seeing Penelope again, a woman of courage and life and strength. They begin to work together, to discover why he is suffering the madness, but it will unlock secrets…secrets that Penelope will have to uncover if she wants to save Gabriel and set him free…

The Hero 

Gabriel, is a soldier, and it has become a part of him. He dedicated himself to serving in the military during the war, but it haunts him and its a dark place he seeks to hide from. The memories give him nightmares, and he is devoted to protecting those that suffered in the war. Gabriel is titled, and has much in his future…but all he sees is the darkness and the horrible memories. While at his cousins wedding….he is drawn into the light with his cousin’s wife, who senses the darkness and they dance a jovial dance, that brings him a measure of peace. Now his life has taken a turn for the worse, its been almost two years later, and he is put in a mad house in the countryside. Gabriel, was a hero that just broke my heart…he is honest and good to the core, he has this strength, and is overwhelmed by memories of his past, but we see his determination to not give up, to keep fighting despite the odds against him.

The Heroine 

Penelope, was very young when she got married, and had no idea what her husband was suffering from until it was too late and she had lost him for good. Penelope blamed herself, for her inability to see the early signs and get help for her husband. She has dedicated her life to the study of the mind, and helps with her cousin, in the aid of those ex military officers that suffer from traumatic disorders from the war. Penelope was a heroine I just loved from the beginning. She has this zest and passion for learning about the mind, all that she can. She is quite sassy and smart and I loved her. Snow does create the best characters, most especially her heroines. What I found most endearing about Penelope, was how she never gives up on Gabriel…no  matter what. She keeps fighting for him and she is quite sneaky at times that made me want to cheer “bravo”. She is intelligent and quick-witted, she is sweet and caring, but suffers from her own demons.

Plot and Story Line 

What was most admirable Sweet Madness was seeing Gabriel and Penelope working together and helping each other from their pasts. This story is the third book in the trilogy, and I really loved the first two books, but there was something “more” to my liking that made me fall in love with this one even more than the other books, probably due to the emotional war that is played out in it. From the beginning, we see a connection between Gabriel and Penelope, but it’s very platonic, but it isn’t until Penelope is a widow, and Gabriel in a mad house….that their connected blossoms into something more than just “friends”. They are both attracted to each other, and even though they try to keep it professional, sparks fly and desire becomes too hard to resist. I was entranced by this story, and what a ride this one turned out to be…near impossible to put down. What made this story fantastic was the characters. We have a great plot, endearing supporting characters…a villain to uncover and much more. We learn quite a bit about how our minds protect us even when we don’t see it. I love having the opportunity to learn a bit more, and seeing this love story develop in the unique way it does. This series is very different from any other historical romance I have ever read, in a way that consumer and enthralls….a story to delight and crave.

The Cover 

This is such a beautiful cover, I love the way it captures your attention, with her vivid colored dress, and the night around her…makes you want to grab it up.

Overall View 

Sweet Madness is a story that in unpredictable, sweet and spicy, a love story that is much more than simple regency romance…its a tale that worms its way into your heart. With some sexual tension, a smart heroine, tortured hero, a plot to keep you guessing, and a romance to endear you!! COMPLETELY CAPTIVATING!!

Summary 

Rebecca Kearsey is a daughter of a baron, a baron that is low on funds, and society looks on her with disdain. She knows what its like to not be excepted. While out with her maid, she gets taken and kidnapped and taken to a underground fighting ring, and the winner will have her at his pleasure. What she doesn’t expect is to have the winner, be none other, than a man she admires, John Barrett, a man recently to become a lord, but the stigma of rumors of him being a bastard, despite it being untrue….holds a taint to the members of the Ton. John is  attracted to Rebecca, she sees him in a very real way that not even his own family sees him, and when there is a opportunity to court her at a house party that his grandmother is hosting…he takes advantage. This will be his one opportunity, and soon John and Rebecca begin a courting dancing, and soon the desire they feel for each other just might ignite if they aren’t careful…

The Hero 

John is a hero that I really admired and liked. He grew up poor in a cottage, but had a loving and kind mother, that got treated poorly by his grandmother. When its discovered that he is heir to the title, he is shocked, and he is brought into a world, of scandals and where he is hard pressed to find acceptance…except for a group of men that are the most despicable rakes…but he considers them his friends. John is not the man he used to be, but when he meets Rebecca his world changes, and he wants to be what she needs. What I find most endearing about John’s character, is how human he seemed. Not fake or near perfect, he had many rough challenges in his life, hadn’t made the best decisions, but at the heart of his character he was honorable and loyal.

The Heroine 

Rebecca, is the daughter of a poor baron. A baron that can’t help but gamble away their funds and land. They have only the bare necessities, and funds to pay for the doctors for her mother who is sick. Rebecca has no prospects or suitors, and she isn’t respected by other members of the Ton. Rebecca is a heroine that I grew to really like…she had the inner strength I admired. I loved how she faces challenges and doesn’t back down when she gets threatened. She is devoted to John, and is very accepting of who he is, and I loved how open she is to others, and isn’t like other members of the ton and judge by rumor, but by personal connections with those persons.

Plot and Story Line 

Never Resist A Rake is a charming romance that I liked even better than the first book. And I really loved the first book, but this story felt a bit more engaging to me. This is a story that may seem like your average romance, but it had certain qualities to it that separates it from other regency’s I have had the opportunity to read. For starters, the opening scene, we see it begin with a fighting match, totally scandalous and illegal…and how often do we see this type of scene in historical romance??? NEVER…that is right Ladies and Gents…hardly ever…so just the beginning scene alone sets it apart from anything else. Another aspect that I quite enjoyed, was how well these two got along and instantly connected and accepted the love they felt for each other the moment it happened. Neither of them went into denial or tried to stave it off…they openly accepted it and each other and that was very refreshing. What was also a bit fun…was that these two had already met before, we don’t see this scene, but we get a decent description of what happens…and they definitely had chemistry…even as strangers before they meet. The supporting  characters were quite fun including the villain (this villain is like a wolf in sheep clothing…the characters in the story don’t see how truly demented he is until the end…but as the reader…no worries you see how depraved he is, and that just creates more thrills for you to enjoy). But we get the lovely Dowager Countess who can be trying at times, but very entertaining, I love the way she tries to “manage” her grandson and just fails each and every time. Then we have the brother Richard and is his wife, who were the couple in the first book. What I found most endearing about these two is how protective they are of him and tries to keep the Dowager under some control. This story is sweet, engaging, and passionate.

The Cover 

You know I am a big fan of pink especially on historical romance covers…and this one totally works for me. I love the flirty sense we get from it, I really like the grin the gal has on the cover…like she knows a secret and won’t tell. And look at that gorgeous dress…I want it.

Overall View

Never Resist A Rake is a tale of redemption and finding your own path, its a story that is paved with adventure, mystery, flaming desire and a poignant romance…TOO DELICIOUS TO RESIST!!

Summary 

Prudence Cabot, knows that her future is looking more bleak than ever. With the two scandals that her two older sisters have caused, Prudence has no prospects or suitors, and she knows that she will end up a spinster. She is tired of seeing her family embracing their husband and children, without realizing what their actions have done to her. So when she has an opportunity to have a adventure for the first time in her life, she takes it. She then meets an american man who makes her want to live life…Roan Matheson. Roan, has come to England in search of his wayward sister, and bring her home to her fiancée. When he bumps into beautiful Prudence, he is overwhelmed with desire, As they find themselves forced to survive on their own through a set of circumstances, Prudence and Roan discover a fierce desire, a desire that develops into something more, and soon Prudence will have a difficult choice to make…Roan or her life in England…

The Hero 

Roan Matheson is a man of responsibility, he is devoted to the family business, and working as hard as possible, to make sure he doesn’t disappoint his father. When he learns that his younger and very spoiled sister, has run off to England, he is furious and goes out in search of her. Roan is a character that you come to enjoy quite a bit. He is a bit of a rogue…but a honorable one. He is an American, so he has that rough and gritty exterior, but he will do anything for those he loves. I love how dedicated he is to finding his sister, that despite her foolish actions…he still wants her to be happy. Roan is a hero that I fell in love with, because even though he has certain “scoundrel” traits, he also has honor and integrity, and is fiercely loyal.

The Heroine 

Prudence, grew up with three sisters, two older and one younger. Prudence has always been especially close to her mother, but following a carriage accident her mother goes mad. Prudence is by the book on what is proper, she has always followed the rules and never entered into any kind of scandal. She has done everything she could to make a good and decent match and secure her future. But when her sisters make horrendous scandal…Prudence is left with the consequences. What I loved about Prudence is how practical she is…she isn’t a day dreamer like her sisters who tend to see things as they want them to be rather than as they really are. She knows she is destined to live a spinster life, and her future seems bleak…but she doesn’t back down…instead she wants to live life for once in her life…to experience and have some adventure. Because she knows that she will live a life alone for the rest of her life. I love how she goes after what she wants, despite what her family says. From the very beginning, my heart ached for her…because in the previous two books we have seen what scandal has done to her. Prudence although very logical and practical, wants love and a home and children, she is fierce and passionate, and wants to spread her wings.

Plot and Story Line 

The Scoundrel and the Debutante was a bit different to read for me, since the previous two books I was able to get through whispersync and Audible…but this story, since its fairly new wasn’t available in that form yet, so I had to go with E book. The beginning really grabbed at me, from the first page I was hooked because of Prudence. I was warned by my lovely friend Anna about the sisters. Now since I had read the previous two books, I was not surprised by how they treated Prudence. Because quite frankly they tend to be a bit self-absorbed at times. At the beginning, they act like Prudence hasn’t been touched by scandal….basically they are very ignorant in this story. And toward the end there….I will be honest I wanted to wring their necks…they are just awful to Prudence. But what was most fun was seeing Prudence and Roan come together and have a bit of adventure together and fall in love along the way. This story’s theme is a bit of star-crossed lovers…one is British and the other is American….and their lives are so different from one another. But they both know that they can’t be together. Although if I was Prudence I would so cross the sea to be with the man I loved….but she is a bit more reserved and thinks too much (which is a quality that I can easily relate with) Roan has the patience of a saint though, he puts himself out for Prudence and puts his heart and trust to her, but we see how Prudence has to make a decision that if she decides Roan her family will suffer even more…and she knows exactly what that is like. She would never to do that to them. But what became most endearing was seeing how eventually her family comes through and earns back a little respect in my eyes…I love the way the story wraps up and boy definitely a tear jerker!! Oh boy I just fell in love with these two as a couple, and even there were a couple of times in the story I had a hard time keeping my attention to….seriously my favorite couple so far!! They won me over heart, body and soul!!  And sweet lil ole’ Mercy…she is still so crazy and full of energy and passion. I hope we get her story soon…I have a feeling it will be a whopper. Because she is a bit wild and would love to see what she is like when she become an adult.  They won me over heart, body and soul!!

The Cover 

What I love most about the cover is how sensual yet tender at the same time. It just makes me what to look at it forever. And I love the blue tones.

Overall View 

This is a story that is bound to captivate its reader, a tale of spreading your wings, embracing life, and finding the most fierce love along the way in the journey, and hold nothing back from going after what you want most. A BREATHTAKING ROMANCE!!