Lady Wild by Máire Claremont

Victorian England is about to go wild…

Lady Ophelia longs to be independent, daring and bold, but her mother’s illness has stolen the last of her creative fire. Condemned to an isolated country cottage after the death of her idealistic father, she and her mother are forsaken by family and all of society. Disappointed by those she once trusted, Lady Ophelia lovingly nurses her dying mother knowing that her own dreams of being an artist will never be realized. That is until she meets a devilish aristocrat who reawakens her desire to be wild.

Viscount Stark has never known love. Reputed to be a rebel and a rake by all, at heart he is anything but. When he meets Lady Ophelia, he is struck by her haunting presence, dignity, and honor. Will he continue to play his wicked games and risk ruining the last of Lady Ophelia’s wounded heart? Or will he dare to be the gentleman he always wanted to be and unveil a love he never thought possible?
~~

Despite the fact that I've been following Máire on Twitter for a while, Lady Wild is the first story of hers that I've read. She released this title with a special price of $.99 with the goal of raising $10,000 for hospice care in honor of her parents who she lost to cancer. With such a worthy goal and a book summary that seemed right up my alley, I had to give this a try.

Lady Wild is a short but satisfactory love story, that has enough emotional angst to make the simple plot work really well. Andrew (Viscount Stark) may have lived an outwardly privileged life, but the loveless family he grew up in has left him scarred and doubtful that there's anything else out there. Ophelia has suffered too many betrayals by those she trusted, losing loved ones to death and rejection, that acting as her mother's caretaker in her final days threatens to crush her spirit along with her dreams.

I didn't dwell much on how realistic their coupling actually was because honestly, it didn't matter. Andrew and Ophelia found in each other the missing parts of their hearts, which sounds corny but in a good romance is exactly what you're looking for. The fact that Andrew and Lady Darlington (Ophelia's mother) were also able to make a connection, even for the short time they knew each other, helped make what could have been a bittersweet ending more peaceful. 

Overall Feeling - B

Series - 1) Lady Wild

Otherwise Engaged by Amanda Quick

One does not expect to be kidnapped on a London street in broad daylight. But Amity Doncaster barely escapes with her life after she is trapped in a carriage with a blade-wielding man in a black silk mask who whispers the most vile taunts and threats into her ear. Her quick thinking, and her secret weapon, save her . . . for now.

But the monster known in the press as the Bridegroom, who has left a trail of female victims in his wake, has survived the wounds she inflicts and will soon be on his feet again. He is unwholesomely obsessed by her scandalous connection to Benedict Stanbridge—gossip about their hours alone in a ship’s stateroom seems to have crossed the Atlantic faster than any sailing vessel could. Benedict refuses to let this resourceful, daring woman suffer for her romantic link to him—as tenuous as it may be.

For a man and woman so skilled at disappearing, so at home in the exotic reaches of the globe, escape is always an option. But each intends to end the Bridegroom’s reign of terror in London, and will join forces to do so. And as they prepare to confront an unbalanced criminal in the heart of the city they love, they must also face feelings that neither of them can run away from. . .
~~

Here's something rarely seen on the blog anymore - a good ol' historical romance! Combine my slowing rate of reading with a general lack of historicals on my shelves, and the even the good ones don't get featured as often as they should. 

Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz/Jayne Castle is one of my favorite authors. She continues to write soothing but entertaining romances, where the HEA might be guaranteed but there's sure to be just enough twists and turns on the journey to keep you interested. Otherwise Engaged might not be my favorite, but Amity's independence and ability to protect herself (plus her interests) made her a fun heroine to navigate the world through. This was especially true once she and Benedict started to solve (what appeared to be) two mysteries simultaneously, because in every conversation or interactions sparks flew which meant the banter meter was high which is just the way I like it.

The Bridegroom was a good villain, sufficiently threatening and secretive, but there started to be so many unknown "to be revealed" moving parts that things got a tad unbelievable near the end. But hey, I'm not reading a romance for total believability, and in the end things worked out as they should.

Overall Feeling - B-

Series - None

A MacKenzie Family Christmas by Jennifer Ashely

The Mackenzies gather for a clan Christmas and New Year's in Scotland. In the chaos of preparations for the celebration--the first of Hart and Eleanor's married life--one of Ian's Ming bowls gets broken, and the family scrambles to save the day. Daniel busily runs a betting ring for everything from the time Eleanor's baby will arrive to whether Mac's former-pugilist valet can win a boxing match to who will be the first of the many guests to be caught under the mistletoe. Ian begins a new obsession, and Beth fears the loss of one of his precious bowls has made him withdraw once more into his private world.
~~

After all the hype and hooplah I've heard about the Mackenzie family I absolutely had to pick up "A Mackenzie Family Christmas" when it popped up as a freebie on Amazon. I'm not sure if it's inspired me to go back and read the whole series (The Duke's Perfect Wife is on my list though - I love Hart!) but it did do a great job of acquainting me with the personalities and back stories of all the brothers.

Each one may have already found their match but the legacy of their father's neglect and abuse remains strong. Even Ian, understood by so few but completely enamored with his wife and children, remembers what it's like to be shuffled away and forgotten. The heart of the story finds itself though, in the brothers' present and future - the lives they've made and the happiness before them. It results in a great Christmas story because even when people are afraid or worried you know it will all work out in the end.

Highly recommend, even for other n00bs like me :).

Overall Feeling - B

Series - 1) The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie 2) Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage 3) The Many Sins of Lord Cameron 4) The Duke's Perfect Wife 4.5) A MacKenzie Family Christmas

The Heiress Effect by Courtney Milan

Miss Jane Fairfield can't do anything right. When she's in company, she always says the wrong thing--and rather too much of it. No matter how costly they are, her gowns fall on the unfortunate side of fashion. Even her immense dowry can't save her from being an object of derision.

And that's precisely what she wants. She'll do anything, even risk humiliation, if it means she can stay unmarried and keep her sister safe.

Mr. Oliver Marshall has to do everything right. He's the bastard son of a duke, raised in humble circumstances--and he intends to give voice and power to the common people. If he makes one false step, he'll never get the chance to accomplish anything. He doesn't need to come to the rescue of the wrong woman. He certainly doesn't need to fall in love with her. But there's something about the lovely, courageous Jane that he can't resist...even though it could mean the ruin of them both.
~~

I don't think I've read a historical quite like what Courtney Milan has crafted here with The Heiress Effect. When Jane and Oliver come into each other's lives there is so much malevolence - so many reasons and people determined to not only see each them fail, but be destroyed. It's a strange way to feel about a romance, let me tell you. 

As things slowly change and evolve between the two of them, even when they start to work together to face their enemies, it took a while for me to accept that things might actually work out ok for everyone. The turning point for each character, that moment when they realize their own strength after all that time of feeling helpless, is really moving. I'm used to reading historicals about strong women and the alpha rakes who fall for them, but Jane and Oliver, while strong, are beaten down by life and finding the ability within themselves to overcome that and fall in love? It's really fantastic to read. 

Milan does a great job writing characters who are full of different facets and motives, who are moved to their actions because of a myriad of reasons. It makes Jane and Oliver's HEA that much more satisfying and I've love find out what happens next for The Brothers Sinister.

Overall Feeling - A-

Series - 1) The Duchess War 2) The Heiress Effect 3) The Countess Conspiracy 4) The Mistress Rebellion

*Title requested from NetGalley*

Crystal Gardens by Amanda Quick

Novelist and professional companion Evangeline Ames has rented a cottage in the outskirts of Little Dixby, far from the London streets where she was recently attacked. Fascinated by the paranormal energy of nearby Crystal Gardens, she finds some pleasurable diversion in sneaking past the wall to explore the grounds. And when her life is threatened again, she instinctively goes to the gardens for safety. Lucas Sebastian has never been one to ignore a lady in danger, even if she is trespassing on his property. Quickly disposing of her would-be assassin, he insists they keep the matter private. There is plenty of whispering about him already, with rumors of treasure buried under his garden, and occult botanical experiments performed by his uncle — who died of mysterious causes. Immediately sensing each other’s psychic talents, as well as their mutual desire, Lucas and Evangeline find themselves with an even more pressing concern. Whoever tried to have her killed will try again. But who would want her dead? With Evangeline’s skill for detection, and Lucas’s sense of the criminal mind, they soon discover that they share a common enemy. And as the dangerous energy emanating from Crystal Gardens grows stronger, they realize that to survive they must unearth what has been buried for too long.
~~

After finishing The Mystery Woman I decided to impose upon my public library again and backtrack to Crystal Gardens - which turned out to be a great decision. In my opinion Crystal Gardens is stronger than The Mystery Woman both in plot and character development; Evangeline and Lucas spend more significant time together and when his family descends to make sure that propriety is being observed they're forced to reveal parts of their past in way that brings them closer together. The only one I could have done without was maybe Luca's aunt, but since she was a vehicle for his sister and then eventually his brother to be introduced I can't say she was completely unnecessary. 

The suspense/mystery elements of the book were also fun to read. The whodunnit might not have been hard to figure out but there were enough strings around to other plots that while the ending wasn't uncharacteristic for Quick's work it was still enjoyable. Going back definitely has me excited about going forward - I might have to wait but the Ladies of Lantern Street will be worth it.

Overall Feeling - B+

Series - 1) Crystal Gardens 2) The Mystery Woman

The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick

Beatrice Lockwood, one of the intrepid ladies of Lantern Street, is in the middle of a case when her past comes back to haunt her.  Joshua North, a former spy for the Crown, has come out of a self-imposed retirement after a disastrous case that left him scarred and forced to use a cane.  He is hunting the villain who is blackmailing his sister.

The trail leads him to Beatrice who is his chief suspect.  But when he realizes that she is not the blackmailer they set out to find the real extortionist.  Passion flares between them as they dodge a professional assassin.  Meanwhile a mysterious scientist intent on resurrecting his dead lover using an ancient Egyptian formula for preserving the bodies of the dead is also hunting Beatrice. He is keeping his dead love perfectly preserved in a special, crystal-topped sarcophagus filled with the special fluid.   But he needs Beatrice's paranormal talent to activate the reviving properties of the preservative in the coffin.  Time is running out for everyone involved.

The two cases collide at a mysterious country-house filled with artifacts from ancient Egyptian tombs.  The drama concludes in the mad scientist's laboratory where Joshua discovers that the past he thought was dead is still very much alive -- sort of.
~~

I usually gravitate to Ms. Krentz books under her Jayne Castle pseudonym but for a historical The Mystery Woman wasn't bad. It's got Krentz's usual tricks, a forthright heroine and a hero with a dangerous past, but the story is still interesting to read. 

Beatrice's connection to her psychic abilities and Josh's vehemence that he doesn't have them is a familiar dynamic but one that works for me. I mean the book summary says a lot about what happens, so let me say in the end this was entertaining but not terrifically different from anything else Krentz has done. It was good enough that I've put the first book on hold at the library and will be checking back in with these characters in the future. If you like Krentz you should like this!

Overall Feeling - B

Series - 1) Crystal Gardens 2) The Mystery Woman

What an Earl Wants by Kasey Michaels *ARC Review*

Kasey Michaels introduces a delicious new series about the Redgraves, four siblings celebrated for their legacy of scandal and seduction....

Gideon Redgrave, eldest child of the late Earl of Saltwood, refuses to be humbled by the scandal that once tore his family apart. He's built his life in London society around one rule: trust no one. So the last thing he wants is to play guardian and role model to a headstrong boy... or to engage in a battle of wills with the boy's spirited half sister, who is fighting Gideon for custody.

Beautiful and bold, young widow Jessica Linden proves to be a formidable and passionate adversary. But the more they lock horns, the more Gideon realizes he'd prefer to have Jessica on his side...and in his arms. Especially now that a new threat-sprung from his father's supposedly defunct secret society-is poised to destroy the Redgraves once and for all.
~~

This book ended up being the most pleasant surprise. I didn't know in the beginning how much I'd like it; the writing was solid but Gideon hadn't quite lived up to the hype - he was a bit of an ass in fact. There seemed to be a lot of things happening at once, and I admit to being a little lost about the direction the story was going to take. As things went on though, as Gideon and Jessica got married, and as the evolution of their relationship became entangled with the solving of an old mystery everything got very interesting.

There's a seed of evil in England, men coming together in secret to plot its downfall to Napoleon, and Gideon feels responsibility enough about his family's part in it to try and make things better. Gradually, as his feelings for Jessica grow their relationship comes to the forefront and Michaels does a fantastic job balancing both threads. I didn't feel like their relationship took a back seat to the mystery because both of them were invested in having the perpetrators exposed, but the mystery remained important. I may like instant gratification (tell me who the bad guy is! Now!) but even I have to admire the way Michaels kept me going while still ending without the full reveal. 

The end is both sweet and satisfying, reminding me just how good historicals (even if they're not truly accurate) can be. I can't wait for the next one!

Overall Feeling - A-

Series - 1) What an Earl Wants (11/20/12)

**Title requested from NetGalley**

 

Teaser Tuesdays (10/30)

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

* Grab your current read
* Open to a random page
* Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
* BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
* Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers! 

"He laid her back on the rose petal-strewn sheets, lifting her legs onto the coverlet, and smiled down at her. She looked unfocused, lost in a dream, her limbs loose, her hair spread out on the pillows like a living thing."

--pg 200, What an Earl Wants by Kasey Michaels (11/20/12)

An Outlaw's Christmas by Linda Lael Miller *ARC Review*

With his wild heart, Sawyer McKettrick isn't ready to settle down on the Triple M family ranch in Arizona. So he heads to Blue River, Texas, to seek a job as marshal. But in a blinding snowstorm he's injured—and collapses into the arms of a prim and proper lady in calico.

The shirtless, bandaged stranger recuperating in teacher Piper St. James's room behind the schoolhouse says he's a McKettrick, but he looks like an outlaw. As they wait out the storm, the handsome loner has Piper remembering long-ago dreams of marriage and motherhood. But for how long is Sawyer willing to call Blue River home?

As the gray skies clear, Piper's one holiday wish just might bring two lonely hearts together forever.

~~

Not only have I not read a Linda Lael Miller in a while, I can't remember the last time I picked up a Western that I enjoyed as much as this. Yes, as a Christmas story you know you're in for a heartwarming tale with a great HEA, but the characters in this particular McKettrick installment were quirky, fun, and interesting the entire way through. 

Piper wasn't just an uptight schoolmarm - she has feelings and worries and in spite of all of those she ventures out to do what she can for Sawyer. Once he's actually awake and she's faced with the reality of a real live man living in her room at the schoolhouse...well then things get a little more complicated. She doesn't know what to do; she's nervous about having him there, attracted to him and his forthright attitude, but held back by the repercussions she knows will come about by having him recover there. It's a conundrum I tell you :).

Sawyer doesn't make it any easier just by being himself. He's a 'modern' man in this historical town, understanding that women are smart capable people - and appreciative that Piper doesn't take any crap. Their back and forths were my favorite part of the whole story because each of them were so clearly taken with the other but didn't know what to do about it. When Sawyer finally proposes marriage to salvage Piper's reputation (which should be a spoiler people - Christmas romance) nothing is rushed into. He's very respectful of her inexperience and wants her to enjoy the sexy times as much as he knows he will, lol. The supporting characters from the town and Piper & Sawyer's relatives enhanced the story and definitely played a roll in my overall enjoyment - they each serve a purpose in helping the hero and heroine grow but didn't overreach or become an unnecessary barrier to their HEA. 

Even without background from the rest of the McKettrick books this is a great feel-good stand alone and I highly recommend it. 

Overall Feeling - B+

Series - ...14) The McKettrick Legend 15) A Lawman's Christmas 16) An Outlaw's Christmas

**Title requested from NetGalley**

Teaser Tuesday (8/7)

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

* Grab your current read
* Open to a random page
* Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
* BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
* Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
 

"His laughter was that of a pirate- a buccaneer, a swashbuckling rogue who should have been safely on a deck in the middle of some ocean- nowhere near her. The sound. deep, rolling, and far too sure, held a threat and a promise; it enveloped her, caught her up, and held her- then he was there, before her once more."

--pg 124-125, Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens

The Magicians and Mrs. Quent by Galen Beckett

Of the three Lockwell sisters—romantic Lily, prophetic Rose, and studious Ivy—all agree that it’s the eldest, the book-loving Ivy, who has held the family together ever since their father’s retreat into his silent vigil in the library upstairs. Everyone blames Mr. Lockwell’s malady on his magickal studies, but Ivy alone still believes—both in magic and in its power to bring her father back.

But there are others in the world who believe in magick as well. Over the years, Ivy has glimpsed them—the strangers in black topcoats and hats who appear at the door, strangers of whom their mother will never speak. Ivy once thought them secret benefactors, but now she’s not so certain.

After tragedy strikes, Ivy takes a job with the reclusive Mr. Quent in a desperate effort to preserve her family. It’s only then that she discovers the fate she shares with a jaded young nobleman named Dashton Rafferdy, his ambitious friend Eldyn Garritt, and a secret society of highwaymen, revolutionaries, illusionists, and spies who populate the island nation of Altania.

For there is far more to Altania than meets the eye and more to magick than mere fashion. And in the act of saving her father, Ivy will determine whether the world faces a new dawn—or an everlasting night. . .

~~

Ok I will admit that Gothic Romance is perhaps not my genre (or subgenre). This book was painful for me to finish because at some point I just gave up on ever really liking all of the characters or where the story was going. Plus, in a authorial decision that completely turned me off, this book is in three parts that go from third person to FIRST PERSON back to third person. No thank you.

As a reader I felt like I was presented with a bunch of characters that required a ton of back story that still didn't result in me caring very much. It felt plodding I guess, with my left questioning who the heck Mr. Quent was for 2/3 of the book - which for me is way way too long. I think if you had patience and thought the foreboding overtones and hints of forgotten romance were just dandy than this is a book for you. I can admire the skill it took to weave together so many disparate elements, especially since with some Googling I've discovered this is the first in a trilogy, but it was not my cup of tea.

Overall Feeling - C-

Series - 1) The Magicians and Mrs. Quent 2) The House on Durrow Street 3) The Master of Heathercrest Hall

Weekend Finds!

While not as usually dirt cheap as I like my used book finds to be (these were half price), I'm very excited to add a couple of new books and new-to-me authors to the list:

A Hundred Words for Hate by Thomas E. Sniegoski

As an angel, Remy possess powers and skill he puts to good use in his chosen profession - but only if the situation calls for it. And the sudden reappearance of the Garden of Eden is definitely one such situation.

He's approached by the seemingly benevolent Sons of Adam to find the Key to the Gates of Eden. But there are those who want the Gates to stay shut. For there is something terrible and dangerous buried in the Garden- and they'll do anything to see that it is not unearthed.

Now, caught between warring factions of immortals, Remy must decide how to proceed: Find the Key, or not? Desperate for help, he turns to a very old acquaintance: a fallen angel who is sometimes a friend, sometimes a foe- and always deadly. 

The Magicians and Mrs. Quent by  Galen Beckett

In this enchanting debut novel, Galen Beckett weaves a dazzling spell of adventure and suspense, evoking a world of high magick and genteel society—a world where one young woman discovers that her modest life is far more extraordinary than she ever imagined.

Of the three Lockwell sisters—romantic Lily, prophetic Rose, and studious Ivy—all agree that it’s the eldest, the book-loving Ivy, who has held the family together ever since their father’s retreat into his silent vigil in the library upstairs. Everyone blames Mr. Lockwell’s malady on his magickal studies, but Ivy alone still believes—both in magic and in its power to bring her father back.

But there are others in the world who believe in magick as well. Over the years, Ivy has glimpsed them—the strangers in black topcoats and hats who appear at the door, strangers of whom their mother will never speak. Ivy once thought them secret benefactors, but now she’s not so certain.

After tragedy strikes, Ivy takes a job with the reclusive Mr. Quent in a desperate effort to preserve her family. It’s only then that she discovers the fate she shares with a jaded young nobleman named Dashton Rafferdy, his ambitious friend Eldyn Garritt, and a secret society of highwaymen, revolutionaries, illusionists, and spies who populate the island nation of Altania.

For there is far more to Altania than meets the eye and more to magick than mere fashion. And in the act of saving her father, Ivy will determine whether the world faces a new dawn—or an everlasting night. . .

What about you? Find anything new and exciting this weekend?

The Shadowing by Joan Overfield

Evil is the first word that comes to mind when Anne Garthwicke arrives at Castle MacCairn. Duty bound to help her father appraise the holdings, she has no choice but to stay. And her trepidation deepens after meeting the laird. Proud and powerful, he embodies all the wildness of the Scottish highlands and incites dreams of carnal passion such as Anne has never experienced. Achingly tender one moment and roughly forceful the next, Ruairdh MacCairn has a beast within straining to break loose. And according to legend, it is only a matter of time before the monster will escape. Anne already knows her heart is lost, but she can only hope that when the moment of fate arrives, her body won't be sacrificed as well.

~~

Look at that face! Look at that hair! How could I not buy this book? Even though it was originally released in 2002, this book gives off serious old school vibes - it might as well have Fabio on the cover! LOL! I didn't know what I was getting myself into, the description to me meant there was a 50/50 shot of it being good-good or bad-good, but I really enjoyed this! 

Ruairdh is a tortured soul, just waiting for 'The Shadowing' to turn him into a raving madman; when he sees Anne and starts to feel something other than depression, he's not too happy about. He's a bit of a jerk in fact, which luckily is balanced by the reader having some insight to his mental state (ie, I didn't hate him because the book is told partially from his point of view). What's especially great about this story is that Anne doesn't just accept Ruairdh being a jerk; while she does keep her station in mind, she tends to give as good as she gets and the sparks between the two are pretty awesome. 

The paranormal plot line doesn't detract from the romance at the heart of this book and I thought the inclusion of 'love conquers all' was done very well with only the slightest hint of corny. If you can get your hands on a copy of this book I'd recommend it, it's a fast, fun read with a satisfying ending.

Overall Feeling - B+

Series - None

Follow My Lead by Kate Noble

Jason Cummings, Duke of Rayne is feeling the weight of his responsibilities – one of which is to get married. Being the most sought after bachelor in London can be trying, so who can blame him if he seeks refuge from the voracious hordes of young debutantes at the decidedly female-free Historical Society? Female-free, that is, until Winnifred Crane marches up to the door, demanding entrance.

Despite her prowess as a historian, Winn is denied membership to the Society. So she daringly offers an unusual bargain: if she can prove the authenticity of a certain painting, she’ll be granted recognition, fame, and respect. But to do that, she must go abroad. And to go abroad, she must have an escort, even a stubbornly unwilling one…

Jason has no desire to accompany Winn on her adventure across Europe, but even he is not immune to Winn’s passion for her profession. As the journey proves more difficult than planned, they must work together to stay one step ahead of their rivals… and the closer they get to the proof Winn seeks, the closer she and Jason become. But as their adventure turns dangerous, can Jason keep this headstrong bluestocking safe? And what will become of their growing bond when the adventure ends?

~~

Before anyone suggests a tar and feathering, let me just tell you that I really wanted to like this book. Really. I don't read a lot of historicals anymore and after all of the good things I'd heard about Kate Noble I truthfully expected this read to be a slam dunk. I have to admit I'm not sure why it isn't.

In retrospect I'd have to say the biggest thing that turned me off was the timing. As I was reading I never got swept up in the story; instead I found myself checking how much of the book was left or skipping ahead a few pages to figure out what was going to happen next. Jason and Winn are an interesting couple, the both of them trying to negotiate the tricky steps into the next part of their lives, but the characters didn't hold on to me. George was as much of an ass as Noble I think intended him to be, but other than that I was for the pretty ambivalent.

I will say though that since my opinion appears to be in the minority that you should give this a try yourself. You never know what will work for you and this could be a prime example of that.

Overall Feeling - C+/C

Series - 1) Follow My Lead 2) If I Fall

Bride of the Rat God by Barbara Hambly

After donning a cursed necklace for the cameras, a silent screen starlet and her entourage are terrorized by an ancient demon

It is 1923, and silent film reigns in Hollywood. Of all the starlets, none is more beloved than Chrysanda Flamande, a diva as brilliant as she is difficult to manage. Handling her falls to Norah, widow of Chrysanda’s dead brother. She has always done her job well, but she was never equipped to deal with murder.

When a violent killing shocks Chrysanda’s entourage, and other weird happenings swiftly follow, Norah begins to suspect that some strange power is stalking the star. In Chinatown she receives warning that a curse has been placed on the actress as vengeance for wearing a sacred amulet in one of her films—and this curse could mean death for all who surround her. 

~~

Bride of the Rat God was an unexpectedly enjoyable read. I requested it because of the great review on Dear Author but you never know - even trusted sources can't guarantee that I'll read it the same way. I can happily say now though that the action, romance, mystery, and paranormal elements all work together in a fantastic way. In fact I bet this would make a great movie as most of the characters and the time it's set in (1920's Los Angeles) are over the top and incredibly entertaining.

On the surface this is a paranormal mystery, with Norah trying her damnedest to figure out who (or what) is trying to kill her sister-in-law Chrysanda. There are spooky omens given by a 'Chinese mystic' and accidents that are just too planned out to truly be what they appear. It makes for a story you can't take your eyes from because you want to know what happens next. And me being a romance girl at heart, the slow development between Norah and Alec, from acquaintances to friends to something more, was another great thread to follow. Norah's working past the death of her husband and isn't sure she's ready for a relationship; instead of rushing it Hambly writes them both as people who slowly but surely finding a partner in the other. I highly recommend this title as something a little different that turns out to be a lot of fun.

Overall Feeling - B+

Series - None

**Title requested from NetGalley**

Mini Me: Into the Dreaming by Karen Marie Moning

Aspiring romance novelist Jane Sillee was completely in love with her fantasy man - the hot and strapping dark-haired Highlander who'd been coming to her in her dreams for years and inspired her sensual flights of literary fancy.

But it was more than her imagination that conjured up the brilliantly woven tapestry sporting the spitting image of her magnificently arrogant warrior. It was more than a dream that transported her to medieval Scotland to break an evil spell. And it was more than she could handle when she found herself wrapped in the muscular arms of Aedan MacKinnon, who had his own fantasies to fulfill...

~~

I'm not sure if you can still pick this up anywhere for $2.99 but it's such a fun quick read! A mass market-esque paperback at 102 pages the story of Jane and Aedan is a wonderful fairytale. There's intrigue in that Aedan is trying to find himself after 500 years at the hands of the Unseelie King, but for the most part this is a character driven story. Jane works tirelessly to return Aedan's memories not only of his life but of their time spent together - while dreaming. She's determined that she's not going to lose him after finally finding out he's real and I loved the way she convinced the entire village to help her.  Yeah it's a bit over the top that she magically fits in perfectly in the past and is a romance author (of Highlander romances in fact) but you know what? I didn't care and I don't think you will either because the whole story is short and sweet and just makes you happy.

Happy Friday!

August in Review

I know you probably won't believe me, but I totally deserve props for this post even existing on RAtChaos. Why? Because by the time you read this I will be at Dragon*Con having a FREAKING AWESOME time!!! And when I'm having an awesome time I find it hard to force myself to stick close to my computer and write monthly wrap-up posts, even when I've managed to actually read more than a few for once, lol.

I hope all of you are prepped for a great Labor Day weekend (yay for 3-day weekends!) and if you're not following me on Twitter yet (@goodredherring) you really should because I plan to spend most of my weekend tweeting cool pics of what I'm seeing at D*C!

What a Dragon Should Know by G.A. Aiken

Kitty's Big Trouble by Carrie Vaughn

Midnight Sins by Lora Leigh

The Assassins' Lover by Emma Holly

Charming the Highlander by Janet Chapman

The Last Dragon by Jane Yolen

Ain't Myth-Behaving by Katie MacAlister

Colters' Wife by Maya Banks

Slow Ride by Lorelei James

Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison

Storm's Heart by Thea Harrison

Scent of Danger by Andrea Kane

A Rake's Vow by Stephanie Laurens

Basilisk by Rob Thurman (review coming soon!)

Something About You by Julie James (reviewing coming soon!)

Books Read/Reviewed: 

15/10

A Rake's Vow by Stephanie Laurens

He vowed he'd never marry:
Vane Cynster always knew which way the wind was blowing, and it was headed in a marrying direction. The other Cynster men might not mind stepping up to the altar, but Vane never wanted to be leg-shackled to any woman, no matter how comely. Bellamy Hall seemed like the perfect place to temporarily hide from London's husband hunters. But when he encountered irresistible Patience Debbington, Vane realized he'd met his match and soon he had more than seduction on his mind.

She vowed no man would catch her:
Patience wasn't about to succumb to Vane's sensuous propositions. Yes, his kisses left her dizzy; his caresses made her melt; but he was arrogant, presumptuous...and, despite his protests, bound to be unfaithful, just like every other man. Patience had promised herself that she'd never become vulnerable to a broken heart. But was this one vow that was meant to be broken?

~~

My favorite historical romances by far are those written by Stephanie Laurens. With almost every installment readers are treated to strong, smart heroines and alpha males who are willing and able to win their hearts.  When I'm looking for a good natured romance that's just going to make me happy I often find myself reach for a Laurens title, and the Cynster family is my favorite series of hers.

Especially with the first 7 or so books, all the characters are men we've come to love from previous installments. Brothers and cousins, all with their own lands and things that they personally are passionate about. No cookie cutters here, though each one possesses similar traits of honor, morality, and strict adherence to their own moral code. 

Patience and Vane are wonderful in particular because each one is so determined to be left be. They don't want to be married but family duty and circumstance contrive to throw them together. The sparks are fantastic and the way they both have to work through their trust issues to admit they love each other results in a great HEA. The mystery element is a bit weak I admit, the perpetrators could have been squared away about 2/3 through the book, but it adds a nice 'something' to the overall story.

Overall Feeling - Thumbs Up.

Series - 1) Devil's Bride 2) A Rake's Vow 3)........15) The Taste of Innocence

Update from the Shelly Laurenston Newsletter

As we are all well aware, I love Shelly Laurenston and reread her books with an almost fanatical devotion to her characters. They make me THAT happy and folks, sometimes it's the little things that get you through the day.

In her latest newsletter she included an excerpt from her upcoming dragon series addition, The Dragon Who Loved Me. As usual it's pretty spiffy so I thought I'd pass it along in the hopes that it can make your Monday as bearable as it has made mine. 

~~

EXCERPT: (Unedited/Unproofed)

THE DRAGON WHO LOVED ME
From Kensington
Coming September 6, 2011!

They ended up taking several breaks because of Ren during the next day of travel. Whatever Magicks the Eastlander was doing were quite strong and Rhona began to worry about him.

While Keita took a quick nap by the base of a tree a few feet away, Rhona crouched beside Ren. They'd shifted to their human forms and dressed in case any true humans stumbled upon them. The land path they were flying above was often busy this time of year, and Rhona had no desire to kill some human because he simply stumbled into the midst of dragons and felt the need to warn his neighbors.

"What can I do for you, old friend?" Rhona asked.

Ren smiled at her. "Nothing. I'm fine."

"You don't look fine. You look like you've been out drinking with my cousins."

"Gods, do I really look that bad?" He grinned and Rhona felt better for seeing it. "I'm fine," he insisted. "Really. Exhausted, but fine. Once I get the children into the Eastlands, my father's strength and the power of my parents' home will get me back to my old self. I promise."

"Is there anything you need now?"

"Any food left?"

Her eyes crossed. "That barbarian's eaten what we've brought with us. He just sucks up all the food around him without caring about anyone else."

Ren chuckled. "It could be worse. He could be chatty."

"Good point. You know how I hate chatty." Rhona stood. "Let me see if I can track something down for you. I'll even roast it for you."

"That would be perfect. Thank you."

"Anything for you, Ren of the Chosen."

"Really? And why's that then?"

"Because you manage to control Keita and keep her relatively safe. For that alone -- the entire Clan owes you."

Rhona lifted her head, sniffed the air. "Deer," she said and went after it.

*****

Vigholf caught the deer by its throat and slammed it into a tree, snapping its neck, and tossed the carcass to the ground. His stomach grumbled and he reached for the animal, planning to tear it open and enjoy its still-warm insides.

But before his fingers could touch the animal's soft pelt, a blast of flame singed his human fingers.

"Gods-damnit! What was that for?"

"You have to be the most selfish dragon I've ever met," Rhona accused. "And considering my kin -- that's truly saying something."

"What did I do now?"

"Ren needs to eat."

"So? Let him eat."

"You've devoured all the dried beef and bread we had. You haven't even asked any of us if we're hungry or not."

Vigholf shrugged. "I asked Keita. But she -- "

"Keita? You asked Keita? Keita who's not doing any Magicks to protect her nieces and nephew? Keita who's not protecting anyone? Keita who's done nothing but talk about all the bloody dresses she plans to get -- not buy mind, but get -- when she arrives in Dark Plains? That's the one you're making sure is fed?"

Vigholf cleared his throat, scratched the back of his neck. "Well...yeah."

Rhona's eyes narrowed and she shoved him back from the carcass. "I'm giving this to Ren. You can bring your precious Keita something else that you caught or killed."

"That deer wasn't for her. It was for me. I'm hungry."

"Again?" Rhona gawked up at him. "How can you be hungry again? You've done nothing but eat all day. Now that I think about it, I've never seen a dragon eat while flying."

"Then clearly you're not putting in enough effort." Rhona's eyes narrowed again and Vigholf, in no mood to fight with her, quickly put his hands up. "There's more deer over in that glen. I'll grab one of those."

"Good."

Rhona crouched beside the carcass and proceeded to skin it.

Vigholf watched her for a time until he asked, "How's the Eastlander doing anyway?"

"He's tired. To his bones tired."

"You're worried about him."

"Aye. I am."

"You two seem...close."

Rhona gave a good yank and removed the deer's pelt with her bare hands. "Aye. I guess we are."

"How close?"

She tossed the pelt aside and looked up at Vigholf. "What?"

"How close are you to the one your sisters refer to as the 'handsome foreigner'?"

"Why are you asking?"

"Why won't you tell me?"

"Because it's none of your business?"

"And what exactly is none of my business? What are you hiding from me?"

Rhona stood, flicking the deer blood and pulp from her hands. "I hide nothing from you, but my business and my personal life are my own. Even my mother doesn't ask me these sorts of questions."

"I'm not your mother."

"No. So you have even less right."

"Then answer me this," he quickly said before she could walk off. "Are you two...attached?"

She snorted a small laugh. "No. Not like that. We're...old friends."

"Uh-huh."

"Unattached old friends. So leave it be."

Except Vigholf wasn't sure he could.

*****

Rhona blasted the deer with her flame, using the power of it to turn the carcass over and over until it was wonderfully roasted on all sides. She reached for it and lifted it onto her shoulder. That's when Vigholf asked, "Do you want to be attached?"

Rhona froze. All these questions were beginning to get strange. Then again, the barbarian was strange.

"Attached to what?"

"A mate of your own."

"Guess I hadn't thought much about it. Why?"

"No reason."

"How could you have no reason to ask me that?" Rhona snapped.

"Because I don't."

"Well you don't have to snarl!" She turned away from him.

"But," he said to her back, "you're not against having a mate?"

Rhona faced him again. "Why are you asking me these questions?"

"Because I'm curious."

"Well, be curious with another female."

"Why? What's wrong with you?"

"Nothing's wrong with me except that I'd never settle for a male who wouldn't fight with me in battle."

"I've been fighting with you in battle for five years."

"Not willingly."

"That's ox shit. When have I ever said -- "

"'Females...fighting by my side?'" Rhona imitated in her low, making-fun-of-Vigholf voice that she used to entertain the triplets. " ‘When did the hells come to earth?'"

He blinked. "Oh. All right. I may have said those words before but -- "

"But what?"'

"But not when it's been you. I've never said those words about you. You've impressed me from the beginning."

"How very big of you," she snipped, again turning away from him. "You lunkhead."

Rhona took a few steps but Vigholf cut in front of her. "I'll admit that my opinion of female fighters was that there were none. But," he quickly added when she hissed, "you and your sisters have changed my opinion on that belief. Shame I can't say the same about you believing all Northlanders are barbarians."

"You are all barbarians."

"Even Ragnar?"

"Well...no. But he's different. Special."

Vigholf's left eye twitched and she suddenly felt in fear for Ragnar's safety. But, after a moment, Vigholf went on. "And has any of my brethren tried kidnapping one of you, forcing you into a Claiming?"

Rhona rolled her eyes. "No."

He took a step toward her, closing the gap between them. "Have some of us not proven ourselves to be excellent strategists in battle rather than berserkers you need to leash between fights?"

"I guess."

Another step. "Haven't we been polite and considerate to all the female warriors even when they're throwing ale, starting fights, and generally being a bit unstable?"

She let out a breath. "Most of you, yes."

"Then how about giving us a break? Giving me a break?" Another step. "Since we're all doing so well that is."

They were nearly touching now, his grey eyes gazing down at her.

"I have to get this meat to Ren," she said. "He needs to eat before we can return to the skies."

"All right."

But he didn't move or stop looking at her that way. She couldn't explain what that way was -- but it was that way. So Rhona forced herself to walk around him and slowly headed back to her cousin and friend.

Although to be honest, she really wanted to make a run for it. She just didn't know why.

Copyright © Shelly Laurenston 2011

Dreamlight Trilogy by Jayne Ann Krentz

More than three centuries ago, Nicholas Winters irrevocably altered his genetic makeup in an obsession fueled competition with alchemist and Arcane Society founder Sylvester Jones. Driven to control their psychic abilities, each man's decision has reverberated throughout the family line, rewarding some with powers beyond their wildest dreams, and cursing others to a life filled with madness and hallucinations.

~~

I'm going to try not to gush too much, as I think it shows I'm probably a little too emotionally evolved to review these books, but I do think Jayne Ann Krentz did a wonderful job with this series. Readers are treated to 3 really interesting stories that intertwine with themselves and the particular environments of the 3 types of worlds Krentz has created.

As Krentz she wrote a contemporary romance, as Quick a historical, and as Castle a futuristic; each one worked well within her established environments. Thus nothing felt forced and instead flowed with the personalities of the characters. I would say though that for people trying to save their pennies the romances are a little similar (especially when read back to back) and it might be worth trying a novel or 2 from the library before buying the whole set. Since I like the way Krentz frames her narratives and like the back and forth she sets up between her heroes and heroines before the HEA I'm still a happy camper - but keep it in mind, this stories are in the same vein as what she usually writes.

Now on to a small little con (that is only really a con because I read all the installments so close together and am actually following the whole series) - the family history in each novel is almost overwhelming. In each novel we get another explanation/retelling of the tale of the original Winters and Jones. It's great from a publisher's stand point because then each novel works well as a stand alone story but it get's old pretty quickly from my viewpoint as the reader. That's kind of why I say it's a small con, because as annoying as it is to reread I understand the purpose of it and truthfully it's not that much of a hardship to flip a couple pages.

Overall Feeling - Thumbs up for all!

Series - 1) Fired Up 2) Burning Lamp 3) Midnight Crystal