Blame it On Texas

Title:  Blame It On Texas
Author: Christie Craig
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing/ Forever
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 464, paperback
On Sale: August 28, 2012



Available on
Amazon
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Authors Website

Synopsis:

Zoe Adams has always been content with her quiet nights at home, watching TV alone-until her life turns into a real-life episode of Unsolved Mystery Hunters. The story of a kidnapped girl triggers unexplained memories, and Zoe is dead-set on figuring out why. Her search leads her to one of the Lone Star State's richest families-and to sexy PI Tyler Lopez.

Tyler has sworn off women, especially redheads with killer curves who poke their noses into his clients' private lives. Still, he can't deny the attraction any more than he can deny that some of Zoe's crazy story makes sense. But when she becomes a hit man's target, this cold case starts heating up. Suddenly, Tyler will do anything to protect Zoe-even risk his heart.

My Take:

What is it about PI's that might just wear a cowboy hat when there's a mystery, some intrigue and a case of sexual tension that causes me to trip on the treadmill?  I guess it doesn't really matter because I was able to right myself before I went down in a heap at the end and I didn't even lose my place in the book!  Book #2 in the Hotter In Texas Series #1 is titled Only in Texas and, although not required pre-reading, I'm not sure why you'd skip ahead!  Another fun and exciting story from Christie Craig - if she keeps these coming I'll never leave the treadmill.

Enjoy!  http://notsohumbleopinions.blogspot.com/

Disclosure:
I received this book in ebook form from Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley for reading and reviewing.  I am a member of affiliate programs for both Amazon and Indiebound and earn a small commission from purchases made through links from this site.

Man Made

Title: Man Made, A Stupid Quest for Masculinity
Author: Joel Stein
Publisher:Grand Central Publishing
Genre: Biographical
Pages:304
On Sale:May 15, 2012



Available On:
Amazon.com 
Indiebound
Barnes and Noble

Authors Website

Synopsis:

The smudge looked suspiciously penis- like. The doctor confirmed: "That's the baby's penis!" which caused not celebration, but panic. Joel pictured having to go camping and fix a car and use a hammer and throw a football and watch professionals throw footballs and figure out whether to be sad or happy about the results of said football throwing.

So begins his quest to confront his effete nature whether he likes it or not (he doesn't), by doing a twenty-four-hour shift with L.A. firefighters, going hunting, rebuilding a house, driving a Lamborghini, enduring three days of boot camp with the U.S. Army, day-trading with $100,000, and going into the ring with UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture. Seeking help from a panel of experts, including his manly father-in-law, Boy Scouts, former NFL star Warren Sapp, former MLB All-Star Shawn Green, Adam Carolla, and a pit bull named Hercules, he expects to learn that masculinity is defined not by the size of his muscles, but by the size of his heart (also, technically, a muscle). This is not at all what he learns.

My Take:
An often funny, often serious quest to "learn" what it is to be a "real man".  Joel Stein investigates every avenue he believes will help him be the masculine father figure that his son will need.  What he learns on his journey is not to be missed, whether you are a father, are planning to be a father or even have a father. I really enjoyed the book as evidenced by my highlighted and post-it noted copy.





Disclosure:
I received this book in hardcover format from Grand Central Publishing for reading and reviewing.  I am a member of affiliate programs for both Amazon and Indiebound and earn a small commission from purchases made through links from this site.

Guilt By Degress

Title: Guilt By Degrees

Author:Marcia Clark

Publisher: Mulholland Books / Little Brown And Company

Genre: Thriller/Crime/Detective

Pages: 432

On Sale: May 8, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

Someone has been watching D.A. Rachel Knight--someone who's Rachel's equal in brains, but with more malicious intentions. It began when a near-impossible case fell into Rachel's lap, the suspectless homicide of a homeless man. In the face of courthouse backbiting and a gauzy web of clues, Rachel is determined to deliver justice. She's got back-up: tough-as-nails Detective Bailey Keller. As Rachel and Bailey stir things up, they're shocked to uncover a connection with the vicious murder of an LAPD cop a year earlier. Something tells Rachel "someone" knows the truth, someone who'd kill to keep it secret.

My Take:

This is my 2nd book by Marcia Clark and I will say hands down it is just as good, maybe better than her first Guilt By Association which I reviewed in April of 2011.  I can't get enough of D.A. Rachel Knight and waiting for this latest installment was torture that was worth the wait.  The characters, setting, and plot twists and turns are engrossing and exciting.  Not wanting to spoil the ending I will only say... buckle up because this one will take you for a ride.  Highly recommended, but start with the 1st book if you haven't read that... it isn't required, but I think this one is better having read the first.

Disclosure:

I received this book Mullholand Books (Little, Brown and Company) Via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Under Fire

Title: Under Fire

Author: Catherine Mann

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Genre:Contemporary Romance

Pages: 271

On Sale: May 1, 2012

IndieBound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

After Rachel Flores' relationship with Major Liam McCabe ends abruptly, she refocuses her energy onto her career. She plans to forget Liam and live a peaceful life supplying therapy dogs for recovering military vets--until a patient reveals a traitorous plot within the epicenter of military intelligence.

My Take:

Sad Face :(  This book expired before I had the opportunity to read it.  I was super excited and had a grand plan to read the first 2 books (Cover Me and Hot Zone) in the series before starting Under Fire (Elite Force #3).  I've read some good reviews and plan to come back to this series and give the whole thing a proper review..maybe these will be the next thing I load for my long gym workouts where I need to focus on something other than how many minutes of torture remain.

Disclosure:

I received this book from Sourcebooks Casablana via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Barefoot In The Sand

Title: Barefoot In the Sand

Author: Roxanne St. Clair

Publisher: Forever / Grand Central Publishing

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Pages: 432

On Sale: May 1, 2012

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Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

When all you hold dear is taken away . . .

When a hurricane roars through Lacey Armstrong's home on the coast of Barefoot Bay, she decides all that remains in the rubble is opportunity. A new hotel is just what Mimosa Key needs, and Lacey and her teenage daughter are due for a fresh start. And nothing, especially not a hot, younger architect, is going to distract Lacey from finally making her dreams a reality.

A second chance is the only thing you have left.

Love has already cost Clay Walker everything. And if he's going to have any chance of picking up the pieces of his life, he needs the job as Lacey Armstrong's architect. What's not in the plans is falling for the headstrong beauty. Her vision of the future is more appealing than anything he could have ever drafted for himself. Will Clay's designs on Lacey's heart be more than she can handle, or will she trust him to build something that will last forever?

My Take:

WEEEE!  I will upfront 100% admit that this book might be labeled a little bit cheesy by some people, but I LOVED this story and it has nothing to do with the title - although for a girl who likes reading books by a gentle lakefront it didn't hurt any. Every page kept me glued , cheering for certain characters and wanting to trip others.  

This is book #1 in what promises to be a series and I hope that comes to fruition because I want to know what happens with the rest of the characters, even the one I wanted to trip.  A fun, engrossing story with romance, family drama, and a good dose of putting bullies in their place I'll recommend this one for beaches, pools, airplanes, bathtubs, treadmills and cozy fireside reading....

Disclosure:

I received this book Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Summer Days

Title: Summer Days

Author: Susan Mallery

Publisher: Harlequin

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Pages: 384

On Sale: May 29, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

Locked in an unexpected land dispute, Rafe Stryker is trapped in the one place he vowed never to return to—the Castle Ranch in Fool's Gold, California. He made millions facing ruthless adversaries in the boardroom, but nothing could've prepared him to go head-to-head against stubborn, beautiful Heidi Simpson. No one is more surprised than Rafe to discover that he's finding Heidi—and life as a cowboy—much more compelling than he wants to admit.
For Heidi, the Castle Ranch is the home she's always wanted. After a life on the road, the vivacious blonde has finally put down roots. She won't give that up without a fight, not even for a man whose late-night kisses make her yearn to be a little less…wholesome.
As the two turn from passionate adversaries to passionate, period, they'll discover that summer love can last a lifetime.

My Take:

For me Susan Mallery is a reliable author; I know when I choose one of her books that I'm going to get a well plotted story with enjoyable characters and enough strife to keep the story moving.  Summer Days is a perfect example of her reliability, with the infusion of a cowboy into the mix, it's hard to go wrong. A fun read perfect for those toes in the sand moments or curled up in front of a fire I'll recommend Summer Days in the heat of the summer or dead of the winter.

Disclosure:

I received this book from Harlequin via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Not Just Friends

Title: Not Just Friends

Author: Kate Hoffman

Publisher: Harlequin Blaze

Genre:Contemporary Romance

Pages: 224

On Sale: May 1, 2012

Indiebound Link

Synopsis:

For venture capitalist Adam Sutherland, attending Camp Winnehawkee's reopening was a no-brainer. He's even reuniting with former camp counselors to chip in and help revive the camp. What he isn't expecting is to find a girl sleeping in his bunk. Or that the girl is none other than Julia McKee, who went from shy and awkward Good Girl to scorching-hot babe….
But the good girl is all gone…and she's headed off to Paris! But before she goes, Julia intends to show her bad-boy childhood crush just how to put the "wild" back into the wilderness! And this time, he'll be the one left wanting more….

My Take:

A cute story of unrequited love finally consummated..so to speak.  A nice (no so blazing) story with characters that are easy to like and a setting that keeps the action moving. I read this one on the treadmill & it held my interest enough to put in extra time, so you know I'll be recommending it for the beach, pool and treadmill too.  Enjoy!

Disclosure:

I received this book from Harlequin via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Tempted By Her Innocent Kiss

Title: Tempted By Her Innocent Kiss

Author: Maya Banks

Publisher: Harlequin Desire

Genre:Romance

Pages:256

On Sale: March 6, 2012

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Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

Devon Carter was her first; now newly wed Ashley wants their passion to last. But her dreams of true love are crushed by the discovery that their marriage is another of Daddy's business deals. Her strategy: act the part of perfect wife and make Devon love her.
But Devon misses the bubbly, no-holds-barred woman his wife used to be. Who is this Ashley with the steely demeanor of a society wife? And will he find a way to rekindle the fire in her eyes…especially now that she's pregnant?

My Take:

I'll admit that not every Maya Banks book is for me, but I enjoyed this one.  A fun contemporary romantic read featuring a female lead that we see blossom from a spoiled and overprotected child into a real woman.  I'll recommend this one for the beach, poolside, and bathtub for sure.

Disclosure:

I received this book from Harlequin via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Shades of Desire

Title: Shades of Desire

Author: Virna DePaul

Publisher: Harlequin

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Pages: 384

On Sale: May 29, 2012

Synopsis:

Natalie Jones is the lucky survivor of an elusive killer who preys on young women and then disappears from view. And since her harrowing ordeal, the once gutsy photojournalist has remained isolated in her home, paralyzed by fear and her failing vision.
Special Agent Liam "Mac" McKenzie has scars of his own. But despite his efforts to ignore the attraction that simmers between him and Natalie, he needs her help to catch a predator. Soon, they will forge a tentative alliance—charged with desire. Through a soft-focus lens, Natalie dares to envision a future with Mac beyond the investigation…never guessing that the clues hidden within her photographs are drawing them into an explosive confrontation with a madman.

My Take:

Natalie Jones feels trapped by her fear and losing her eyesight... I felt trapped on the treadmill with a book that held promise but, for me, didn't deliver in the end.  I'm not sure I can pinpoint where it went wrong, and there were things about the book that I liked but with so much more out there to read I'm going to have to mark this one as a do not recommend.

Disclosure:

I received this book from Harlequin via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Always In My Heart

Title: Always In My Heart

Author: Kayla Perrin

Publisher: Harlequin / Kimani Romance

Genre: Romance

Pages:224

On Sale: May 1, 2012

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Authors Website

Synopsis:

The oldest of three adopted daughters, Callie Hart has always loved being the protector of the family. But now she is all grown up—with a young son of her own to protect. Callie can't wait to show him off when she reunites with her two sisters in Ohio. But that also means coming face-to-face with the lover she left behind. Nigel Williams is even more irresistibly attractive than ever. But what will he do when he learns about the secret she kept hidden from him for ten years?
Nigel has never forgiven Callie for fleeing Ohio—and the passion they shared. And when she shows up on his doorstep asking for forgiveness, the Cleveland cop is furious at her deception. But how can he deny the feelings Callie reawakens in him? Blindsided once again by the heat of desire, Nigel vows to fight for his future with the woman he has always loved.

My Take:

A fairly quick read but with a main story line that was too predictable for my tastes and so many subplots that were neither resolved nor had a purpose.  I was hoping for more... but I'm afraid this book didn't deliver.

Disclosure:

I received this book from Harlequin via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Tender Loving Cure

Title: Tender Loving Cure: A Loveswept Classic Romance

Author: Gayle Kasper

Publisher: Loveswept / Random House Publishing Group

Genre: Romance

Pages: 228

On Sale: October 10, 2011

Synopsis:

Dr. Joel Benedict is a proper Bostonian, more likely to be caught daydreaming about sailboats than supermodels. He insists he doesn't need to take the hospital's Sex Talk seminar. Then he sees the temptress leading the class.Instantly enamored of the so-called sexpert, Joel soon feels a stirring passion he thought was long dead. Could she teach him to take the only chance that matters?

Maggie Springer's provocative seminars are all the rage, except with the prudish problem student who dismisses her course as psychobabble. She sets out to free Joel's inhibitions, to break through his cool facade-but Maggie finds that Dr. Benedict's bedside manner could make a lady blush. And if Maggie gets too close, her private lessons may ignite a desire she never expected in her wildest fantasies.

My Take:

A cute and quick romantic read perfect for a day at the beach or sitting poolside sipping a special drink. 

Disclosure:

I received this book from Loveswept / Random House via NetGalley for reading and reviewing

Fifty Shades of Grey - Oh MY!

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Title: Fifty Shades of Grey

Author: EL James

Publisher: Vintage

Genre: Contemporary Romance /erotic fiction

Pages: 528 (paperback)

On Sale: April 3, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.

Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.

My Take:

Engrossing, engaging and erotic as all hell, there were times I felt like I needed more than a cigarette.. I needed a whole carton and a cold shower.  I was almost afraid to have it in my house for fear it would self combust.  No spoilers here, I can't wait for the next book in the series, but I will warn those who are faint of heart, if graphic scenes are a problem for you this is not the book for you.  Me, I loved it...I didn't have the time to read this book and yet managed to carve out the time to read the whole thing in 3 or 4 sittings.

Disclosure:

I received this book from my friend to read because I have a bit of a reputation for reading steamy books.

A Cold Creek Reunion

Title: A Cold Creek Reunion

Author: RaeAnne Thayne

Publisher: Harlequin

Genre: Romance

Pages: 288

On Sale: March, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

He was the one you called when you needed rescuing…
But who was Taft Bowman going to call when he needed help? Because ten years ago Laura Pendleton, the love of his life, had left town without a word, then or since. Now she was back, with a new last name–and two adorable, high-needs little ones in tow. Well, Taft had been stupid enough to let her go once before…he wasn't about to make the same mistake again. He'd never stopped loving her–and one look at those adorable little faces and he knew that he was meant to be with Laura and her kids forever. All he had to do was convince her that this time he was a man she could count on!

My Take:

I first started reading serial romance novels back when I was hiding from chores on my grandparents farm (Grandma was a fan of the drug store novel); we aren't going to date it.. but suffice it to say it was some time ago.  I loved them then, and I love them now because you typically know exactly what you are going to get and they are reliable.  This isn't the first RaeAnne Thayne Harlequin I've read, and it certainly won't be the last.  This isn't the only Cold Creek story and although they all easily stand alone RaeAnne Thayne does an excellent job of weaving in back story without consuming pages unnecessarily.  An enjoyable read and one I'm pleased to say I can hand off to my 16 year old without worrying that it's too racy....even with a fire fighting, horse riding, hero that knows how to swing a hammer....

Disclosure:

I received this book in digital format from Harlequin (Via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

One Hot Cowboy Wedding

 

Title: One Hot Cowboy Wedding

Author: Carolyn Brown

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Genre: Romance (With Cowboys!)

Pages: 348 paperback - I read digital

On Sale: April 3, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

A marriage made in Vegas...
Hunky cowboy Ace Riley wasn't planning on settling down, but his family had other plans for him...The only way to save his hide, and his playboy lifestyle, is to discreetly marry his best friend, Jasmine King.
Can't possibily last...
Fiesty city–girl Jasmine as just helping out her friend—that is, until their first kiss stirs up a whole mess of trouble, and suddenly discretion is thrown to the wind.

One hot cowboy, one riled up woman...
And they'll be married for a year, like it or not!

My Take:

An enjoyable book with a fun story line and likeable main characters.  As the 4th book in Carolyn Browns Spikes & Spurs Series I felt like a a respectable job was done allowing the book to stand on it's own; but found some of the back story filler to be more than I personally would have liked, the opportunity to go back and read the first 3 seems lost.  Regardless I would recommend this book for those who enjoy the genre and don't see any reason why I won't be seeking out the next book in the series.  My advice would be to start from the beginning... I think there was probably good stuff there too.

Disclosure:

I received this book in digital format from Sourcebooks Casablanca (via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

Somebody to Love

Title: Somebody To Love

Author: Kristan Higgins

Publisher: Harlequin

Genre: Romance

Pages: 432 paperback - I read digital

On Sale: April 24, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

After her father loses the family fortune in an insider-trading scheme, single mom Parker Welles is faced with some hard decisions. First order of business: go to Gideon's Cove, Maine, to sell the only thing she now owns—a decrepit house in need of some serious flipping. When her father's wingman, James Cahill, asks to go with her, she's not thrilled…even if he is fairly gorgeous and knows his way around a toolbox.
Having to fend for herself financially for the first time in her life, Parker signs on as a florist's assistant and starts to find out who she really is. Maybe James isn't the glib lawyer she always thought he was. And maybe the house isn't the only thing that needs a little TLC….

My Take:

For anyone who is well versed in the books of Kristan Higgins (that would be me) this is not your first introduction to the headstrong & confident Parker Welles, her son, or the town of Gideons Cove.  You may remember Parker from The Next Best Thing... I know I do... and Gideons Cove was the setting for one of my favorites Catch of the Day!

Parker Welles is in over her head & James Cahill is JUST the man to dig her out.  The familiarity of the people & places that weave in and out of this story are an added bonus to the charming story line filled with unforgettable characters.  No requirement to read the 2 books that came before Somebody To Love stands all on it's own, but I can't imagine why you wouldn't want to read all three.

Disclosure:

I received this book in digital form from Harlequin (via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

SEAL Of My Dreams

 
Title: SEAL of my Dreams

Authors: 

Stephanie Bond, Elle Kennedy, Helen Brenna, Kylie Brant, Roxanne St. Clair, Cindy Gerad, Tara Janzen, Alison Kent, HelenKay Dimon, Jami Alden, Leslie Kelly, Jo Leigh, Marliss Melton, Gennita Low, Christie Ridgway, Barbara Samuel, Stephanie Tyler, Loreth Anne White

Publisher: Belle Bridge Books

Genre: Romance Anthology

Pages: 380 paperback (I read digital)

On Sale: November 11, 2011

Indiebound Link
SEAL of My Dreams Website

Publishers Website

Synopsis:

Honor, duty, courage, passion . . . the men of the Navy SEALs are a special breed of hero, and in these novellas by eighteen top romance authors the SEALs are celebrated not only as symbols of devoted service to their country but as the kind of men every woman wants to love. They’ll rescue a damsel in distress and her lap dog, too. They’ll battle hometown dramas and international bad guys. When it comes to giving away their hearts, they’ll risk everything.

All proceeds from sales of SEAL of My Dreams go to the Veterans Research Corporation, a non-profit fundraiser for veterans’ medical research.

My Take:

I mentioned my favorite thing about anthologies earlier this week, finding new authors while reading stories by other authors I already enjoy; that's not all SEAL of my Dreams offers.  With 18 short stories to keep you warm (sometimes downright HOT) I will say I wasn't disappointed by a single one.  Sure I suffered the typical "Thats It?!?" moments that come with short stories (really who doesn't want more) but not a single time did I skip to the next story.  Many miles of elliptical were happily passed and I have SEAL of my Dreams to thank.

*Aside:  This book cuts a little close to home for me because I know, knew a real life SEAL.  He served this country for all of his adult life (in and out of service) and when he left this earth not so long ago I was reminded by those he served with how hard they work, how hard they play, how much danger they are put in all of the time....what it is they do and what they sacrifice for this country and the world. 

Disclosure:

I received this book in digital format from Belle Bridge Books (via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

Kiss Me I'm Irish!

Title: Kiss Me, I'm Irish

Author: Roxanne St. Claire, Jill Shalvis, Maureen Child

Publisher: Harlequin

Genre: Romance (with a hint of Ireland!)

Pages: 512 Paperback (I read digital)

On Sale: February 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Websites:

Roxanne St. Claire

Jill Shalvis

Maureen Child

Synopsis:

The Sins of His Past by Roxanne St. Claire
For one incredible night, Kendra Locke gave Deuce Monroe everything she had. Then he walked away without a backward glance to chase his big-league dreams. Now after one too many daredevil stunts, he's back in his hometown ready to pick up where they left off—but Kendra has no intention of giving in so easily….

Tangling with Ty by Jill Shalvis
Dr. Nicole Mann, a child prodigy who graduated high school at the age of thirteen, has no room in her mind or her schedule for romance. But when the architect renovating her apartment turns out to have a charming Irish accent, all bets are off—and Ty Patrick O'Grady plans to use every trick in his book to stay in her life for good.

Whatever Reilly Wants by Maureen Child
Connor Reilly only has a few weeks to go in his "no sex for ninety days" bet with his brothers—and he figures no woman is safer to be around than his best friend, Emma Jacobsen. Until Emma shows up at a bar in a short skirt and high heels, and suddenly seems anything but safe!

My Take:

Here's the thing I love about anthologies, I almost always find new authors to add to "Must Read" list and Kiss Me I'm Irish did just that.  It's no secret that Jill Shalvis has been on that list for years, but this month I got to add two more authors to that list as well. 

Each story has great characters, enough of that "good" tension to snap a 2 by 4 and a dose of steam to take care of all the wrinkled curtains in my house.  Fun from the get go, you don't have to be Irish and it doesn't need to be anywhere near St. Patricks day to enjoy these Irish Devils.

Disclosure:

I received this book in digital form from Harlequin (via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

A Perfect Storm

Title: A Perfect Storm

Author: Lorie Foster

Publisher: Harlequin Books

Genre: Romance (steamy hot intrigue kind)

Pages: 445 paperback - I read digital

On Sale: March 27, 2012

Indiebound Link

Authors Website

Synopsis:

Spencer Lark already knows too many secrets about Arizona Storm, including the nightmare she survived and her resulting trust issues. But in order to expose a smuggling ring—and continue avenging his own tragic past—the bounty hunter reluctantly agrees to make Arizona a decoy. Yet nothing has equipped him for her hypnotic blend of fragility and bravery, or for the protective instincts she stirs in him.
Arizona wants to reclaim her life, which means acting as bait to lure the enemy into a trap. Sure it's dangerous, especially with a partner as distractingly appealing as Spencer. But as their plan—and their chemistry—shifts into high gear, Arizona may discover there's an even greater risk in surrendering her heart to a hero….

My Take:

The fourth book in Fosters Men Who Walk the Edge Of Honor series, A Perfect Storm picks up where Savor the Danger left off and the reader gets glimpses of couples from the past stories.  Probably best read from the beginning so the reader has a good grasp on why Arizona is so vulnerable, Foster does a good job of not making it a requirement.  Well paced with enough action, dialog and character development to make this a great beach read choice.  Although I will admit I read my copy at the gym and it did a stellar job of taking my mind off how many minutes I had left on the elliptical.

Disclosure:

I received this book in electronic form from Harlequin (via NetGalley) for reading and reviewing

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

Title: I've Got Your Number
Author: Sophie Kinsella
Publisher: Random House / Dial Press
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 448 (hardcover)
On Sale: February 14, 2012


Indiebound Link
Authors Website


Synopsis:

Poppy Wyatt has never felt luckier. She is about to marry her ideal man, Magnus Tavish, but in one afternoon her “happily ever after” begins to fall apart. Not only has she lost her engagement ring in a hotel fire drill but in the panic that follows, her phone is stolen. As she paces shakily around the lobby, she spots an abandoned phone in a trash can. Finders keepers! Now she can leave a number for the hotel to contact her when they find her ring. Perfect!

Well, perfect except that the phone’s owner, businessman Sam Roxton, doesn’t agree. He wants his phone back and doesn’t appreciate Poppy reading his messages and wading into his personal life.

What ensues is a hilarious and unpredictable turn of events as Poppy and Sam increasingly upend each other’s lives through emails and text messages. As Poppy juggles wedding preparations, mysterious phone calls, and hiding her left hand from Magnus and his parents . . . she soon realizes that she is in for the biggest surprise of her life.

My Take:


One of my great big fears is losing my cell phone, probably more for the lost wages that would occur (I am not insured and am no where near upgrade time) than the lost contacts.   What I don't want to lose is my number...I already did that 18 months ago when I switched carriers and in place of the trusty number I had for nearly 5 years I was given a number that some one else had used and given out, everywhere.  Maybe it's my own experience with receiving phone calls and texts intended for someone else but I know exactly what drew Poppy to do some of the crazy things she did on behalf of Sam with her finders keepers phone.  


In Poppy Wyatt and Sam Roxton, Sophine Kinsella has given her readers a new set of characters who are very different yet meant so much for each other.  Well written, with a charming story line, a little intrigue, and a moment or two of "Oh no Poppy, don't do it!" I found myself a little sad when it was time to bid Sam and Poppy farewell.


Disclosure:
I received this book electronic from Random House for reading and reviewing

Time Out by Jill Shalvis

Title: Time Out
Author: Jill Shalvis
Publisher: Harlequin / Blaze
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 224 (mass market paperback)
On Sale: February 21, 2012


Indiebound Link
Authors Website


Synopsis:

NHL coach Mark Diego's plan to spend his off-season volunteering in his hometown goes awry when he learns that not only is he coaching teenage girls, but that the program is coordinated by energetic (and five feet two inches of trouble) coordinator Rainey Saunders, his childhood friend—and the woman he could never stand to see dating any other guy….


When their tempers flare, Mark and Rainey discover their fireworks don't just burn angry—they burn very, very hot! But that'll just sweeten the victory. Because Mark always plays to win. And with Rainey, he's planning on playing very dirty, too…

My Take:


I don't know a single person who doesn't have that embarrassing moment from their long ago past (or maybe more recent) when a bad case of crush/lust caused them to do something they will forever regret and never forget.  Poor Rainey Saunders replays her embarrassing moment every time she lays eyes on Mark Diego... and thanks to his screen time as an NHL coach it happens more than Rainey would like; not that she's giving up her secret glimpses of Mark.  


Another fun, sizzling read from Jill Shalvis; with strong characters, a fun story line, and an ending that leaves you smiling I can't imagine why you're still here reading this review when you should be reading the book!


Disclosure:
I received this book electronically from Harlequin for reading and reviewing