Jacquelyn Frank--Drink of Me

In a world where emotion can be a deadly weapon, one slight, battered runaway holds the key to a dark and twisted enigma...

"Drink Of Me", she whispers, her silver eyes trusting, pleading. What female dares speak such words to one of the Sange? His people are scorned by every race for their fierce sensuality, their fearful rituals. And as Prime, Reule is the most telepathically gifted of them all.

But nothing has prepared him for the intensity of emotion radiating from the outlander rescued by his Pack. Terrified, tormented, but beautiful beyond measure, Mystique shatters his legendary control. As she reaches for him in the steamy heat of the healing baths, he knows this blind need can have but one end...


***** (5 stars)
LOVED IT, LOVED IT, LOVED IT! Jacquelyn Frank has the ability to write about worlds that defy imagination. Each of her books has brought us to a world so exotic and layered with characters and descriptions, I am awed. I was a little confused at first, but only for the first few pages. The story drops right into the action and runs aways with your full attention for almost 400 pages. Reule and Mystique are fascinating characters as is the world in which they live. Their love story is passionate and sweet all at the same time. But Frank didn't just leave it at the main couple. There are so many other characters circling this couple, and each one has their own story, their own passions, their own dramas, and their own dreams. I love everyone one of them. I only hope Frank writes a few stories about the others in Reule and Mystique's Pack. I think it will be a fascinating world to read about for a series.

J.K. Beck--When Blood Calls (Shadow Keepers)

Sara Constantine is one of the country's most tenacious prosecuting attorneys—and she's just secured a well-earned promotion. At first she's thrilled. Then she finds out her new job involves prosecuting vampires and werewolves. And nothing prepares Sara for the shock she receives when she meets the first defendant she'll be trying to put away: Lucius Dragos, the sexy stranger with whom she recently shared an explosive night of ecstasy.

When Lucius Dragos kisses the beautiful woman sitting next to him at the bar, he's only hoping to blend into the crowd and avoid the perceptive gaze of the man he's following…and planning to kill. But what starts as a simple kiss to secure his cover ignites into a fierce hunger that leads to an all-consuming passion. Charged with murder, Luke knows Sara will do whatever it takes to see him locked away—unless he can convince her that he's not the monster she thinks he is. And that might mean making the greatest sacrifice a vampire can make.....


***** (5 stars)
First book, first time author. And let me just say......WOW!!! I am completely hooked. This story has it all, mystery, intrigue, and passion. The characters are great and very interesting. The story has multiple layers happening all at once, and its a fast-paced page turner! The passion is not over the top, just the right level at the right time. I read the entire book in one day, and I am already starting the second one.

Jax (Jacquelyn Frank)--The Bid

DISCIPLINE OF LOVE — Strapped and chained on the block, a masterpiece of naked flesh and muscle turns slowly…the eyes of the crowd devour the sight of Vejhon, whose platinum-white hair and cat-green eyes mark him as newly captured from a wild planet on the outer edges of space. The noble men and women erupt in a bidding frenzy -- that finally stops on a man named ...Najir. This strikingly handsome man who strangely resembles Vejhon cries out the winning bid on behalf of the lady he serves. Hanna Drakoulous now has a matched pair of the finest males in the galaxy…

Shackled, Vejhon can only marvel at the mysterious beauty with blue skin and shining eyes whom Najir clearly worships. But Vejhon refuses to humble himself -- until Hanna’s kiss strikes him like lightning. First dominant, then sensually tender, she arouses him to explosive sexual passion that goes beyond the limits of physical pleasure. What manner of mistress has bought him and what does she want? Freedom is what he wants, but will she be worth the price...


(3.5 stars)
This was supposed to be an Erotica novel set in a very sci-fi setting. It was only PG17 on the rating of Erotica. The reason for the PG17 rating is for the animal aspect of the story. I won't explain, because I don't want to give any spoilers away. I have read much, much hotter before, but not to say that it is a boring book though. I was confused for the first half of the book, not really sure what the "big secret" was and feeling very lost in this new world, much as Vejhon was. JAX (aka Jacquelyn Frank) has quite the imagination. If you have read any of her other books, you will know that she can create worlds that defy description. This world is no different, I believe this is her first attempt at Erotica and it was a little tame for me, but the dynamic between the main characters was very interesting. This book does have a story, and characters that are somewhat complex and intriguing. I can't say this is a keeper for me, but I would be wiling to read future books in this story line.

Rhyannon Byrd--Touch of Temptation (Primal Instincts series)

Kellan Scott, the Lycan shape-shifter, has vowed to redeem his playboy past...even allowing himself to be captured by his enemies to save a woman he's never met. Once imprisoned, stealing into Chloe Harcourt's cell is the easy part---withstanding her irresistible beauty is next to impossible.

Chloe has struggled to keep her unusual powers over other people's emotions in check, never trusting that any man could truly love her for herself. Until her mesmerizing rescuer awakens a primal craving for contact.

Their all-consuming passion is their strongest weapon against their sadistic captor. But Kellen's biggest battle may still lie ahead: to convince Chloe he's worthy of her undying love...or die trying.


**** (4 stars)
I love this series, I just wish Byrd wrote faster. Kellen's story starts in the previous book (Keirland and Morgan's). He has set off across the wasteland to rescue Chloe from Westmore, crossing paths with a nest of vampires who he gets caught up in a fight with, that leaves him poisoned. Racing against the poison and the clock to free Chloe, Kellen struggles to get Chloe free before the Casus catches up with them. Kellen is trying to redeem himself by rescuing Chloe, but it is Chloe who rescues Kellen (from himself). Their story is cute, at times is bogged down by the dialogue, but overall a good story. The passion and intimacy is scorching with these two, and would give any woman some heated fantasies! The series is moving along a little further in the fight against the Casus, and we meet a few new characters in this one. If you haven't read this series, start at the beginning, you will need to know the path to understand all the dynamics. But you won't be disappointed.

Alexandria Ivy--Devoured by Darkness (Guardians of Eternity)

Tane is a Charon, sworn to hunt and kill rogue vampires. His new assignment seems like a waste of his talents--until he catches up with the jinn he's been sent to capture. Half human, half demon, Laylah has a vulnerable streak that strikes right through to Tane's cold heart. He should be furious when she uses her powers to bind them together, preventing him from dragging her before the Commission. Instead he welcomes any reason to stay close enough to touch, to taste, to seduce. . .

Laylah doesn't know why she was chosen to protect a child who may be the catalyst in a war between good and evil. But the mysteries of her past pale compared to the dangers approaching. Tane is devastatingly strong, breathtakingly sensual. And Laylah will have to trust in every ounce of that strength, because her enemies are drawing near, eager to destroy them both. .


**** (4 stars)
Tane is YUMMY! His story begins in the previous story, where he is chasing Layla thru the tunnels after she kills a cur. Her only reason for killing was self defense and her need to keep her secret. The child she is protecting may be the most dangerous being to enter this world. But Layla only sees an innocent child. Tane is drawn to Layla's vulnerability and spunk. I liked the two of them, the story is fast paced and enjoyable. Several of the previous couples make appearances in this story and as always, the charming gargoyle Levet is back to annoy the vampires and charm the women. This series is taking an interesting turn with new characters and a new path of evil. It all sounds very interesting and I can't wait to read Jaelyn and Ariyal's story. The only downside to this story was its length. The final battle scene took a little too long to play out and I skimmed thru a couple of pages. The last chapter was a cute ending, but Ivy didn't bring resolution to Layla's mother. Which, to me, seemed like a pretty important point to close up since she played a part through out the story.

If you haven't read this series, you should really start at the beginning so you can follow the path of all the characters. You won't be disappointed.

Shayla Black--Entice me at Twilight (Doomsday Brethren Novel)

Dangerously handsome Simon Northam, Duke of Hurstgrove, and his uptight brother Mason are hardly close, but crashing Mason’s wedding and stealing his fiancee further aggravate their sibling rivalry. Duke’s family has no notion he’s a wizard, so how can he explain that magickind’s fate lies with the beautiful, tenacious bride he longs to seduce?

Felicia is an Untouchable, a rare human whose presence disables magic -- even the impenetrable forces surrounding Morganna le Fay’s tomb. The evil witch’s malicious powers could propel nefarious wizard Mathias to ultimate world domination . . . if he can resurrect her. To conceal herself, Felicia must succumb to her smoldering desire for Duke, but he risks binding his life -- and sanity -- to a lover whose loyalties are forever torn. He faces a choice: betray his brother for ultimate survival . . . or lose the woman who tempts him beyond control.


*** (3.5 stars)
Well.....I'm not really sure how I feel about this book. I didn't love it, but didn't hate it either. I'm just kind of "luke warm" about it. I did keep turning the pages and read it in 3 days. Simon and Felicia weren't as passionate as previous couples. I think the length of time in which it took Felicia to open up to Simon "Duke" took to long, it seemed as if she would never let herself fall in love with him. The action with Mathias picks up in this book, and as usual there is more drama with Shock. The trip thru Moganna's tomb was interesting and the climax in the tomb was good. But the ending overall was weak. I'm not giving up on this series, they can't all be obsessive page turners and the sneak peek in the next book sounds really interesting.

Shannon K. Butcher--Living Nightmare (The Sentinel Wars)

For nine years, Nika has had one goal: to save her younger sister from the Synestryn who hold her captive. Now the psychic bond Nika forged with her sibling is fading, and time is running out. But the one man who can unlock the power inside her left and never returned, leaving Nika alone to rescue a sister everyone else believes is dead.

Madoc swore to himself that he would never enter Dabyr again. For his soul is nearly dead, and he fears what he might do to those he's sworn to protect -- especially Nika. If he accompanies her into the Synestryn realm, his forbidden desire for her may unleash the savage monster within him. But Nika's need to rescue her sister is soon becomes intertwined with her passion for Madoc, while the a key to victory in the war may be within her reach...


***** (5 stars)
Nika and Madoc's story is one I have waited (impatiently) to read. And I was not disappointed! It is quite a ride and a LOT of questions get answered. This book really pulled all the pieces of this series together for me. I couldn't put it down, page after page kept me glued to it, needing to know what would happen next. So much happens, but I don't want to spoil anything. Some of the team is lost, we find others along the way, and Nika and Madoc finally become the couple that we all new they would be (sorry to spoil that, but you knew it would happen). Their story is sweet, tragic, and full of impossible odds. But I loved every page of it. I am anxious to find out what happens with Torr and Grace, what will happen to Tori, and how will all the new players weave into the series. I am going to pre-order it as soon as amazon.com has it listed!

Addison Fox--Warrior Avenged (Sons of Zodiac series)

For ages, the goddess Nemesis has sought divine vengeance against mortal man, as she awaits her chance for retaliation against Mount Olympus. Now, after making a deal with a dark wizard, she has reinvented herself as a female spy with her own sinister agenda...

Immortal warrior Kane Montague is as lethal as a scorpion--like the one that marks his powerful form. As an assassin for MI6, he was an ace gun-for-hire until someone very close burned him. Now on the outs with his former colleagues, Kane knows all too well who's to blame: a sexy secret agent names Ilsa.

When their paths cross again, the passion between Kane and Ilsa is irresistible...and possibly lethal. But they soon realize that Ilsa is simply a pawn in a conspiracy aimed at the heart of the Zodiac Warriors. Can Kane trust her? Or is Ilsa the only one who can save him, body and soul?


**** (4 stars)
Second in the Zodiac Warrior series. After a slow start with the first book, I really liked this one. The characters are developing well, each with their own quirks and stories. The Zodiac Warriors behave true to their signs, and if you like Greek Mythology, this is a nice series. New characters are joining the mix. And Kane and Ilsa's story is complicated, but pulls together nicely. I'm looking forward to the next book, I hope its Drake and Emerson.

Christine Warren-Born to be Wild (the Others series)

Josie Barrett brings out the animal in men. Literally. As the local veterinarian in a town that's approximately seventy percent Others--mostly shapeshifters--Josie deals with beastly situations all the time. It's practically part of her job description. But when the werewolves of Stone Creek, Oregon, start turning downright feral, Josie smells a rat--among other, more dangerous critters...

Teaming up with the ferociously sexy Eli Pace, a full-time sheriff and part-time were-lion, Josie tries to contain the shapeshifting problem before it spreads like a virus. But when more shifters get infected--and stuck in their animal forms--the fur really begins to fly. Josie and Eli have to find the cause, fast, before the whole town goes to the dogs. But first, they have to wrestle with a few animal urges of their own...


* (no stars--didn't finish it)
Really really tried to like this book, but after 3 attempts to read it, i give up. I really loved the first ones in this series, but this one strays away from the core the series started with. Can't say it's a bad book, didn't read enough to judge. I just couldn't get into it.....it didn't captivate me.

Addison Fox--Warrior Ascended (Sons of Zodiac series)

Charming, proud, and impulsive, Leo Warrior Brody Talbot is fighting what may be his final battle. Enyo, the Goddess of War, plans to fulfill an ancient prophecy to destroy humanity by harnessing the dark power of the Summoning Stones of Egypt--and there's only one person who knows enough about the stones to help Brody diminish their strength.

Since her father's murder, museum curator Ava Harrison has continued his research of Egypt's ancient treasures. She's just landed the exhibit of the century: displaying the Summoning Stones at New York's American Museum of Natural History. Used to working alone, Ava is suspicious of the arrogant archaeologist who's been brought in to entrust the stones' safekeeping, but his presence ignites an unexpected blaze of attraction.

Never in all his centuries has Brody met a woman who enthralls him as Ava does. But, bound to protect her, he struggles to deny his passion as they are drawn into a dark and dangerous final reckoning between good and evil.

*** (3 stars)
Didn't hate it, but didn't love it. This is the first in this series, and it was.....truthfully, boring. The plot sounded interesting, I like the Greek Mythology theme. But the story and the characters fell flat. I kept reading out of sheer boredom, and to my suprise the story pulled together after 200 pages. Brody and Ava seemed to mesh together and the disjointed parts of the story started to come together....barely. Ava's family is a train wreck of dysfunctional evil, pathetic really. The evil Enyo is a joke, and Themis is hardly a player at all in the story. But there are a couple of other warriors in the mix, and I liked them. Still not a keepsake book, more like a bored afternoon Sunday read. But I have hopes for the next book in the series, if it pulls together better than this one I just might read the rest.

Christina Dodd--Chains of Fire (Chosen Ones series)

synopsis:
Samuel Faa is a Gypsy lawyer with the power to control minds. Isabelle Mason is wealthy, privileged, and refined, and has the gift for healing. Two of the Chosen Ones, they share a past filled with love and betrayal, and a future denied by fate -- until the day they're trapped underground. No way out. No way to deny the passion that still burns beneath the surface. And when danger threatens, Isabelle has only one choice: to place her trust in the power of the one man she could never forgive ... or forget.


**** (4 stars)
Out of the 4 books in this series, I like this one the best. The dynamic between Samuel and Isabelle is great. They don't always get along, they fight, but they love each other. Their character development was great. The series is moving along at a more understandable rate, and the pieces are falling into place. The side story involving Todd seemed out of place when you learn that he is just greedy and is not really an "other". And what is with Irving's nurse? Kind of makes you think she is an "Other". The ending seemed weak, confronting the devil should have had a bigger splash, but tempting man's free will is fairly simple right? I'm sure most people were expecting fire and brimstone, but the devil himself rarely gets his hands dirty. He has others to do his dirty work for him. And the last scene with Samuel and Isabelle was a little to sappy. But all in all, I like the book. Now we wait to find out what's happening with Alexansdr? Who is this girl he is marrying?

Christina Dodd--Chains of Ice (The Chosen Ones series)

synopsis:
For one magic summer, Genny Valente escapes to spend time as a wildlife observer in the untamed mountains. Little does she know that a beast lurks in the forest…a man, one of the Chosen, betrayed by his gift & tormented by memories. John Powell has fled his fate and his duty, yet in Genny he sees his chance for redemption. He will stalk her, kidnap her, love her as only a savage can. But when a new betrayal threatens, John must call on the powers he swore he’d never use again. Then only Genny’s love can save him…if she dares tame the one man she can’t live without…


***(3.5 stars)
I read the first 2 books in this series, and thought they were a waste of time. I don't know why I put the next 2 on my wish list, but I thought I would give the series another try. Nicely surprised! The series is really starting to pull together, the characters are becoming more developed (still annoying and silly at times) but they are learning their place in the grand scheme of things. I felt a little lost with the back story about Gary and John's team, like I had skipped a book, but eventually you find out what happened and are able to piece it all together. I really like John and Genny's story, it developed outside of the "Chosen One's" group, so you learned alot about them without them being lost among the others. Still not the best series I have ever read, but it does seem to be getting better and the core of the series is coming together. Still don't really understand the point of the "hand", but I will read the next one in the series, hope it holds up as well as this one did.

Jessa Slade--Seduced by Shadows (Marked Souls Novel)

synopsis:
Her life was never that good especially after her mother committed suicide and her father proved pathetic while her brothers fled the family. However, Sera Littlejohn's life became worse when she is crippled in an accident; now she lives every moment with unbearable pain and a struggle to get around.

Although she had not thought much of possession, the demon entices her with healing her battered body by taking it over, which also denotes damned. However, when she meets also possessed Ferris Archer, she finds her soul mate. He, in turn, has never met a demonic-possessed woman although he knows she is his if he does not have to kill her for what is inside her.

* (failure)
I had high hopes for this book. The story sounded interesting, but I struggled from the first page. Maybe I expected this book to be like the Lords of the Underworld series who are possessed by demons also. But Slade's writing is to intellectual for me, not emotional enough. It doesn't flow smoothly, it was like listening to a CD skip, it gave me a headache. I gave it 50 pages to hook me, but unlike the other reviews, I just can't continue with it in hopes it gets better. I won't be reading the rest of this series. Sorry Slade.

Lora Leigh--Renegade (Elite Ops series)

synopsis:
As a bridal shop owner, Mikayla Martin helps make women’s wedding dreams come true. Her own life, however, has become a nightmare since she witnessed a murder -- and got an up-close-and-personal look at the killer. What’s worse: She knows she knows him. But the police, after doing an alibi check, don’t believe her. It’s up to Mikayla to prove them wrong…and do whatever it takes to solve the murder by herself.

Elite Ops agent Nikolai Steele, code name Renegade, is asked to pay an old comrade a favor. This friend swears he’s no killer -- and Nik believes him -- even though he’s been mistaken as one by Mikayla. So Nik goes to set her straight…but the moment he lays eyes on the fiery and determined beauty, he knows he’s in too deep. A woman this irresistible can only mean trouble and, sure enough, after sticking her nose in one too many places, someone wants Mikayla dead. Now Nik must find a way to keep her safe, clear his friend’s name, and find the real killer, who remains on the loose…


**** (4 stars)
Loved the book, loved the couple. This one was a real "who done it". It had a nice mystery to go along with how the characters met and developed together. And it didn't involve government espionage. Mikayla is a true "good girl" and winds up with the baddest of all bad boys who has a LOT of baggage to overcome. My only complaint about the book was it was about 50 pages to long, and after 375 pages of build-up, the big "reveal" seemed a little short. But the couple got their fairy tale ending, right? And is it only me, or are Leighs sex scenes getting tamer?

Lora Leigh--Black Jack (Elite Ops series)

synopsis:
The Secret Service can't control him. The British government can't silence him. But renegade agent Travis Caine is one loose cannon you don't want to mess with, so his commanders cut him a break -- and cut him loose. His new HQ is America's top intelligence force, Elite Ops. His new code name is "Black Jack." And his new assignment is to die for.

She's smart, sexy, scintillating -- and one of Elite Ops' savviest agents. Lillian Belle's code name is "Night Hawk," and Travis certainly wouldn't mind flying a few midnight maneuvers with her. But when their mission turns into a red-hot game of danger, deceit, and double-crossed signals, Travis begins to wonder: Can he trust her? Can he resist her...


**** (4 stars)
I usually don't like the stories where both the main characters are agents, BUT, since Lilly has amnesia, she becomes that damsel in distress character that balances out the tough as nails male lead. I really like both Lilly and Travis. And suprisingly, the story turned out to be a real mystery. Leigh's usual sex scenes were toned down a bit in this one, but were still passionate and appropriate as they played out in the story. Not my favorite, but still a good read.

Annette McCleave--bound by Darkness (soul Gatherer Novel)

synopsis:
Soul Gatherer Brian Webster has long lived with the guilt of his failure to save his teenage sister. When another girl dies in his arms as she protects an ancient coin from a demon, he takes up her cause. The coin is one of thirty pieces of silver paid to Judas. United, the coins are a dark relic of immense power, and in the wrong hands, they could destroy civilization.

Lena Sharpe is on her own mission to find the Judas coins. A Soul Gatherer by day and a thief by night, she's negotiated the most important deal of her life. When Brian intervenes and kidnaps her to obtain the coins, she attempts to escape. But the brazen warrior is unrelenting, as he is fearful that the beautiful felon has made a pact with the devil himself. And he's not entirely wrong.

Bound together by burning desire and a similar darkness in their hearts, they race against time to recover the missing coins. But as the truth behind Lena's bargain surfaces, Brian is faced with a desperate choice to save one or save many...


*** (3 stars)
Liked it, didn't love it. This book didn't seem to have the same intensity as the first. Brian was too likable, not brooding enough. And Lena's constant escaping was a little tiring. I was more interested in the story line happening with Carlos and Emily. Something is seriously wrong with him and is tweaking my curiosity. Brian and Lena are an ok couple, not the best romance I've ever read, but not the worse. I will still keep reading the series. The basis of this series is unique and interesting enough to keep my interest. I like that even though it has a religious basis, it's really about good and evil and the decisions we all make in our lives. It's nice that they get the chance to redeem themselves.

Annette McCleave--Drawn into Darkess (Soul Gatherer Novel)

synopsis:
For centuries Lachlan Macgregor has battled demon thieves for the souls of the dead, carrying out his pledge to deliver them into Heaven or Hell. But his greatest challenge as a Soul Gatherer is now among the living.

Struggling to connect with her troubled teenage daughter, Emily, artist Rachel Lewis turns to her enigmatic yet strangely compelling neighbor for advice. As Lachlan soon discovers, the girl has fallen victim to a seductive demon--a specter from the past using the unsuspecting women to fulfill an ancient prophecy and settle a hellish score with Lachlan himself.

In the race to save Emily and avert a disastrous power shift among the deities, Rachel and Lachlan forge an uncommon bond. But how can Lachlan tell the mortal woman he's falling in love with, that the next soul he's been enlisted to gather--and deliver beyond--is her daughter's?


***** (5 stars)
A completely new kind of story. This is the first book from Annette Mccleave, and I am impressed. The story isn't weighted down with building the "world" this series follows. The action starts on page one and never stops and the characters are well developed and likable enough for me. The base of the series might sway some people with the whole "God vs. Satan", soul gatherers, and "death", but the religious aspect didn't bombard the story. It only gave the basis for who, what, why, and where the characters are in this series. I found it a refreshing change of storyline. Sometimes paranormal romance starts to blend together and become repetitive. I can't wait to get to book 2 in the series...I hope it's about Brian.

Kresley Cole--Demon from the Dark (Immortals after Dark series)

synopsis:
A DANGEROUS DEMON SHE CAN'T RESIST . . .

Malkom Slaine: tormented by his sordid past and racked by vampiric hungers, he's pushed to the brink by the green-eyed beauty under his guard.

A MADDENING WITCH HE ACHES TO CLAIM . . .

Carrow Graie: hiding her own sorrows, she lives only for the next party or prank. Until she meets a tortured warrior worth saving.

TRAPPED TOGETHER IN A SAVAGE PRISON . . .

In order for Malkom and Carrow to survive, he must unleash both the demon and vampire inside him. When Malkom becomes the nightmare his own people feared, will he lose the woman he craves body and soul?



****(4 stars)
Where do I start? Not my favorite of this series, it started out a little confusing for me. I wasn't sure where this book started in the time-line of the series. Cole will sometimes start back in the beginning of the series with a new book. But I gave it my 100 page try and completely fell for it. Carrow is not the most likable character, but Malkom is great. His path from tortured, abused "venom" to hero "stepdemon" is both endearing and funny. The sex was not gratuitous but fitting for the moment the couple was in. Their romance was slow and had a "learning curve" for both of them. They had baggage and trust issues, but don't we all? But true love conquers all sometimes. Ruby is adorable, and I hope she gets her own book. As the war is starting, there are more questions, then answers, and I can't wait to get the next book...

Lara Adrian--Taken by Midnight (Midnight Breed series)

synopsis:
AT THE CROSSROADS OF DEATH AND DESIRE, A WOMAN TASTES A PLEASURE NO MORTAL IS MEANT TO SURVIVE.

In the frozen Alaskan wilderness, former state trooper Jenna Darrow survives an unspeakable breach of body and soul. But with her narrow escape comes an even greater challenge. For strange changes are taking place within her, as she struggles to understand -- and control -- a new hunger. To do so, she will seek shelter in the Boston compound of the Order, an ancient race of vampire warriors whose very existence is shrouded in mystery. Perhaps the most mysterious of them all is Brock, a brooding, dark-eyed alpha male whose hands hold the power to comfort, heal . . . and arouse.

As she recovers under Brock’s care, Jenna finds herself drawn to the Order’s mission: to stop a ruthless enemy and its army of assassins from subjecting Earth to a reign of terror. Yet in spite of their resolve, a purely physical relationship without strings soon binds Brock and Jenna together with a desire fiercer than life and stronger than death itself -- until a secret from Brock’s past and Jenna’s own mortality challenges their forbidden love to the ultimate trial by fire.


**** (4.5 stars)
I couldn't give it a complete 5 star rating because Adrian only teased us with Jenna's transformation after the attack by the Ancient. I didn't get nearly enough details as to what she may become. But other than that, it is a true Lara Adrian novel. You fall instantly in love with the couple of focus and can't help yourself but to race to the end of the book. The ending was a little weak for me, but I never want the books to end anyway. The story could go on for another couple 100 pages and I would be happy. Everyone of The Order make appearances, and I can't wait for Tess's baby to get here. The series base story is moving along at a great pace and there is just enough action mixed with romance to pull it all together. I am hanging by my fingernails to see what Dragos is up to next. Looks like Hunter is the next one up, that should be a very interesting story....I'll be stalking the mailbox waiting for my pre-order.

Lora Leigh--Styx's Storm (Breeds series)

synopsis:
When Storme Montague's father and brother are killed by the Breeds, her father's research is also destroyed--except for a crucial data chip that both the Council and the Breeds would kill to possess. Betrayed to the Council, she is rescued by Styx, a Wolf Breed who is different from most other Breeds she has ever known. Storme has something he wants too--but it's not a data chip.

There's never been a woman who bad boy Styx couldn't seduce. But can the charmer of the Wolf Breed charm the enemy?

Or has the enemy come up with a plan of her own? A plan that could destroy the tentative balance the Breeds have created in society and among their allies--and that may ultimately destroy them both.....

(4 stars)
Storme is not a likable character, understandably so given her history. But her prejudice and hatred bogs the book down for to long. Storme had a lot of baggage to overcome before she gives in to Styx. I like Styx, but his character was not developed enough for me and there was very little action until the last portion of the book. I hate to say the book was boring, because I really love the Breeds, but it wasn't the most thrilling installment of the series. The main plot moves forward somewhat, and Cassie gives a couple of hints into the upcoming Navarro story. Overall, not bad, but not the best. I think I like the Feline Breeds better....

Shayla Black--Delicious (Wicked Lovers series)

synopsis:
He can’t control his desire.
Luc Traverson’s entire future is planned out—but there is one very sexy obstacle in his path: Alyssa Devereaux . She’s a former exotic dancer turned strip club owner and restaurateur. Recently, Alyssa and Luc shared one night of wild abandon that left Luc terrified by his loss of self-control—and Alyssa desperate for more.

And that’s just the way she wants it.
Fulfilling a promise, Luc is the guest chef for Alyssa’s restaurant debut. The sight of her makes Luc wild, so how can he survive a week without letting loose and ravaging her—especially when she’s begging for it? Luc’s desire for her explodes when he realizes he isn’t the only man desperate to have her. But one of the others is deadly. And that’s not the end of Alyssa’s secrets…which are as dark and mysterious and enticing as her fantasies.


*** (3 stars)
Disappointed. The first 2 books in this series were smoking hot with passion. This one fell short for me, it seemed to me that it was more focused on their emotional baggage. Not a bad thing, but not what I was looking forward to in this book. And it was certainly more tame than the previous two. And truthfully about half way through the book I started to skim the pages and only read the dialogue. It was a struggle for me to even finish this book, I was ready to put it down all together. I hope Hunter's story takes us back to the wickedly hot passion that I know Black can write.

Alexis Morgan--Dark Warrior Untamed (Talion series)

synopsis:
He questions everything.

No one thought Chief Talion Greyhill Danby would report to work so soon after wrapping up his affairs in London. Then again, he didn’t expect to find a beautiful spy with a major attitude in his new office. Clearly the Kyth’s Grand Dame doesn’t trust him to do his duty -- to protect her.

She fears the truth.

Piper Ryan isn’t keen on the arrangement, either. Matching wits with an ancient warrior isn’t in her administrative job description. But sharing space with the red-hot head of security could have unexpectedly tempting benefits...if he doesn’t dig into her secret past.

Opposites always attract.

When threatening e-mails result in danger, the fiery sparks between Piper and Grey grow scorching hot. They must defend the throne from a deadly invisible attacker, but will their raging desire keep them together...or will their burning suspicions tear them apart?


***(3.5 stars)
I prefer Morgan's Palladin series to the Talions. It is an OK story, not a page turner. The characters are not as intense for my taste and lack that spark that keeps me hooked. I enjoyed Grey and Piper, but overall they seemed kind of tame to me. Good enough for a Sunday afternoon, but not a trip to the bookstore to get the first copy. I took off .5 stars for the numerous grammar errors in the book. If the author/editor doesn't care enough to proof read, why should i care enough to own it? I'm sure that is just my own pet peeve, but if you are proud of what you write, you should make sure it is error free so the rest of us will be proud to own it. I will still read future books in this series, I'll just wait for them to make my wishlist as a swap.

Shayla Black-Decadent (Wicked Lovers series)

synopsis:
Two men are better than one…

How can a virgin seeking happily-ever-after with a hot pop star who has a penchant for threesomes win her fantasy man? Kimber Edgington desperately needs a plan to convince Jesse McCall, who’s been her friend and secret crush since they spent a summer together as teenagers, that they are meant for each other. But all the tabloid stories about his sexual escapades make her feel oh-so inadequate.

Determined to prove she’s woman enough for Jesse, Kimber turns to bodyguard Deke Trenton for sexual education. Bold and brash, Deke warns Kimber that playing with him is playing with fire. But he can’t bear to imagine the innocent beauty in someone else’s arms. So Deke and his super-sexy friend, Luc, take Kimber under their wings and dangerously close to the edge of ecstasy. Though she’s saved herself for Jesse, Kimber soon learns, he’s not the man adept at stoking her aching, endless need. That’s Deke, and he can’t resist when Kimber begs for more -- and more…


**** (4.5 stars)
Whew! Anyone reading this book better bring a cooling fan, it is HOT, HOT, HOT! Definitely not for the faint of heart. If you are ready to face that hidden fantasy of two men, you are in for a very passionate ride. I fell for Deke in the first book Wicked Ties, and I still like him. Kimber is an independent smart strong character who is easily likable. It's a complicated story, issues and baggage for everyone, but Black writes another winner. My only complaint is that I feel the ending, the final scene, was a little sappy and weak. But it was probably hard to top the intensity that was present in the entire book. That aside, I enjoyed every word. Black's characters are great and I can't wait to read Luc's story.

Shelley Laurenston--Hunting Season (The Gathering Bk. 1)

synopsis:
STUBBORN, LETHAL, AND FROM JERSEY...
WHAT MORE COULD A VIKING WARRIOR WANT FROM HIS WOMAN?

Neecy Lawrence, winged warrior for a Viking goddess and second-in-command of the fierce Crows, doesn't know what to do with a nice guy. As it is, making up for a past she'd sooner forget leaves her barely polite most days. But Raven leader and loyal Odin warrior, Will Yager, isn't just nice. He's gorgeous, hot, and a distraction she simply can't afford.

Yager has wanted Neecy in his life -- and in his bed -- for a long time. Not just for a night, but forever. And, like any self-respecting Viking, he'll stop at nothing to get what he wants. So what if she's the most difficult, complex, never-gives-him-a-break woman he's ever known? She's more than worth the effort. In fact, she's worth everything.

And if it turns out that twenty-four hours of non-stop, any-way-she-wants-it sex doesn't work with Neecy? Then it looks like he'll just have to get a little more creative....

Warning: Contains a strong, intelligent, ass-kicking heroine; an alpha hero with the occasional geeky tendency; gritty, realistic violence; and sex so hot that, well, let's just say there's not enough ice water in the world....


*** (4 stars)
This is the first Laurenston book I have read, and I have to say I liked it. It was a different spin on the usual romance with the man chasing the out-of-control woman. Not much about the underlying series is covered, which was fine with me, we learned enough to make the story tie together, even though I know nothing about Norse Gods. The characters in this book are absolutely hilarious! They are well written, with very different personalities. And the sex was not over the top but fit just right into the story. I can't wait to read the next one.

Shayla Black--Wicked Ties (Wicked Lovers series)

synopsis:
Megan O'Malley has seen a lot of kinky things as the hostess of a cable sex talk show. But she's never met a man like Jack Cole before. A self-proclaimed dominant, he's as alpha as a male can get and good for Morgan to have around when an obsessed stalker ratchets up his attempts to get to her.

Though Jack is a bodyguard. Morgan feels anything but safe in his presence. Because slowly and seductively, Jack is bringing her deepest fantasies to the surface. And when he bends her to his will, what's more shocking than her surrender is how much she enjoys it and how she starts to crave his masterful tough. A willing player in Jack's games, Morgan knows that his motives aren't pure, but she has no idea how personal they are.....


**** (5 stars)
I love a good erotica book. BUT, they have to have a story to pull it all together. Sex scenes for the sake of sex, is boring to me. WELL, Shayla Black has hit it right this time. WICKED...WICKED...WICKED. I was hooked from the beginning, the characters are well developed and the story is believable. I found myself hoping the main couple would get their happy ending. And even dominants have their weaknesses, Right? The right woman can always bring a man to his knees. This story line is very well written and it looks like this series is off to a very HOT start. This story is steamy and explicit in its BDSM story line, if you are not adventurous, you should take a walk on the wildside and give it a try.

Larissa Ione--Sin Undone (Demonica Series)

synopsis:

HER TOUCH IS DEADLY

As the only female Seminus demon ever born, master assassin Sinead Donnelly is used to being treated like an outcast. She spent decades enslaved, and now vows she'll die before she'll relinquish her freedom again. Then Sin's innate ability to kill her enemies goes awry: She creates a lethal new werewolf virus that sparks a firestorm of panic and violence.

HIS HUNGER CAN'T BE DENIED

Half-werewolf, half-vampire Conall Dearghul is charged with bringing in Sin to face punishment for the plague. And she's no stranger: He's bound to her by blood, and the one sexual encounter they shared has left him hungering for her raw sensuality. Worse, Sin is the underworld's most wanted and Con soon learns he's the only one who can help her...and that saving her life might mean sacrificing his own.



**** (4 stars)
This was a long book, but never slow or boring. A LOT goes on in this story, the "sin fever" is reaching epidemic proportions. Which in turn, has started a warg war between the born wargs and the turned wargs. As Sin tries to find the cure, she deals with her "baggage" and emotions with the help of Con. Luc, Con's paramedic partner has his own story going on, along with all the Seminus brothers. Plus we get a sneak peak into the spin-off series Ione is creating which will debut next year. There is really too much going on in this story to explain, but in true Ione fashion you will not be disappointed.

Sherrilyn Kenyon--No Mercy (Dark Hunter Novel)

synopsis:
Live fast, fight hard and if you have to die then take as many of your enemies with you as you can. That is the Amazon credo and it was one Samia lived and died by. Now in contemporary New Orleans, the immortal Amazon warrior is about to learn that there’s a worse evil coming to slaughter mankind than she’s ever faced before.

Shapeshifter Dev Peltier has stood guard at the front of Sanctuary for almost two hundred years and in that time, he’s seen it all. Or so he thought. Now their enemies have discovered a new source of power -- one that makes a mockery of anything faced to date.

The war is on and Dev and Sam are guarding ground zero. But in order to win, they will have to break the most cardinal of all rules and pray it doesn’t unravel the universe as we know it.


***** (5 stars)
My only complaint was that it was too short, I never want the book to end. I need more. I wait, what seems like forever for the next Dark Hunter book to arrive, and just that quickly I have read it and am waiting all over again. Lots of familiar players make appearances, I have missed them all, especially Simi. Dev is so funny I was laughing out loud, I completely get his sense of humor. And the plot thickens, what will Stryker do now? And what in the world is going on with Nick? Kenyon leaves us with so many questions, but that is what keeps us hooked and pacing around the mailbox waiting for the next book. I don't want to give any secrets away, so if you are a true Dark Hunter junkie....run to the bookstore and pick up a copy, I am keeping mine for my collection.

Lora Leigh--Dangerous Games (Navy SEALS)

synopsis:
Navy SEAL Clint "Iceman" McIntyre didn't earn his nickname by being a coward. Or a quitter. Having crushed an infamous drug cartel in Colombia, Clint was nothing short of an American hero. Now he's home, on a much needed leave, but instead of some R&R, he finds himself neck-deep in trouble with his best friend's little sister, Morganna Chavez--the only woman who has the power to bring him to his knees...

Morganna has been secretly working with the DEA to uncover a thriving date-rape drug, which leads her to a shadowy faction that is more deadly than anything her team has ever encountered. Now it's up to Clint to keep this beautiful, determined agent out of harms way, even while the passion between them threatens to consume them. Soon Clint's greatest mission will be not just keeping Morganna alive, but getting her into his arms and never letting go.


**** (4 stars)
If you have ever read Lora Leigh before, you know she is explicit in her sexual play. And this one takes it to another level.....the BDSM scene. As with all the SEALs books the story is the war with the Fuentes cartel. And I do enjoy the underlying story in all her series, but it is the main couple that draws you in. The uncontrolled passion and need to be with one another, that brings all women to their knees. Sometimes you just need to get lost in a passionate, sexual, book on a Sunday afternoon. Give it a try, I'm sure you'll like it too.

Lynn Viehl-- "Dreamveil" (Novel of the Kyndred)

synopsis:
Rowan Dietrich knows how hard life can be. After running away from her abusive home life, she struggles to survive on the streets. The brutal lessons she learned while there still resonate in her mind and heart. Now she wants to start anew, find a job, and keep her identity as a Kyndred--as well as her ability to "dreamveil" herself into the object of others' desires--secret.

She isn't using her gift when world-class chef Jean-Marc Dansant helps her after a motorcycle spill. He's genuinely attracted to Rowan's own beauty and strength. But just as Rowan begins to find a life for herself, the GenHance corporation pursues her, eager to take her back to where she was created. And a bounty hunter hired by a ruthless millionaire wants Rowan for his own sinister reasons...

*** (3.0 stars)
This book starts off confusing, if Veihl had just told us from the start that Rowan was the girl who worked for (and fell in love with Mathias) it would have made more sense. The snobby french food stuff was just annoying and pointless. And it seemed there were too many broken pieces of stories all happening at the same time, it didn't flow well. None of it came together until the very end, and i was disappointed. I wanted to know more about Sean and Dansant, and how they came to be. I hope we learn more about them in the future. This book left me wondering whether or not i will bother with the rest of the series....

P.C. Cast-- books. 1-7 (House of Night series)

synopsis:
House of Night is a thrillingly engaging book series that follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird, who gets “Marked” by a vampyre tracker and begins to undergo the “Change” into an actual vampyre. She has to leave her family in Tulsa and move into the House of Night, a boarding school for other fledglings like her.

It’s within the school’s walls that the heart of the action takes place as Zoey meets new friends, finds love, comes to terms with how her life will be different now and begins to realize her awesome new powers.

Here’s the deal though: Yes, Zoey’s a vampyre now. But she’s still a teenager – with all the humor, angst and confusing feelings any other teenager has....

***** (5 stars)
1. Marked
2. Betrayed
3. Chosen
4. Untamed
5. Hunted
6. Tempted
7. Burned

I picked up the first book "Marked" back in January. And i really like it so i started getting all the other books in the series. They sat quietly on my desk for several months until I sat down one Sunday and started the second book. I couldn't stop. I was very glad I had already gotten the rest of the series, because i was completely hooked! YES, it is the vampyre version of Harry Potter. YES, its full of teen angst. YES, the language is at times silly. YES, there is lots of teenage bickering and banter (which I find hilarious!) What I love about this series is that it never slows down. It's never boring to me. I love all the characters and find myself hoping for their happy ending. But nothing ever goes easily in Zoey's world and there is lots of pain and drama and even death. If you are looking for a series to read that will entertain your inner teenager for a while, give it a chance. I am glad I did! Now I'll be waiting for the post office to bring me the next book i have already placed on pre-order.

Gena Showalter-- "The Darkest Lie" (Lords of the Underworld)

synopsis:
Forced to his knees in agony whenever he speaks the truth, Gideon can recognize any lie---until he captures Scarlet, a demon-possessed immortal who claims to be his long-lost wife. He doesn't remember the beautiful female, much less wedding--or bedding--her. But he wants to...almost as much as he wants her.

But Scarlet is keeper of Nightmares, too dangerous to roam free. A future with her might mean ultimate ruin. Especially as Gideon's enemies draw closer--and the truth threatens to destroy all he's come to love...

***(3.5 stars)
It took me 2 weeks to get thru this book. I can usually finish a book in 3 days. But translating "Gideon speak" (lies) slowed the book for me and had me putting it down again and again. Even though i struggled with the "lies" translation, this was just as great a story as the others. I love the Lords of the Underworld series, so I pushed thru. Gideon and Scarlet are great characters and i would have appreciated them more without having to translate every conversation, and their story was a little confusing. Were they married and his memories were erased? Or were her memories planted? Amun, William, and Aeron head to HELL to get Legion back and what a journey that was! (But i won't spoil it) We find out a lot of info about Cronus and Rhea's war and Strider finds another demon. The battle at the end of the book with Scarlet was great and funny at the same time. Can't wait until the next one, will it be Strider or Amun's story?

Gena Showalter-- "The Darkest Prison" (Lords of the Underworld)

synopsis:
For weeks, the immortal warrior Aeron has sensed an invisible female presence. An angel--demon assassin--has been sent to kill him. Or has she? Olivia claims she fell from the heavens, giving up immortality because she couldn't bear to harm him. But trusting--and falling for--Olivia will endanger them all. So how has this "mortal" with the huge blue eyes already unleashed Aeron's darkest passion?

Now, with an enemy hot on his trail and his faithful demon companion determined to remove Olivia from his life, Aeron is trapped between duty and consuming desire. Worse still, a new executioner has been sent to do the job Olivia wouldn't.....


**** (4 stars)
Long book, at over 430 pages you might think that you would never get to the end. There are alot more stories going on besides Aeron and Olivia. I still find Showalter's characters fascinating and likable (the good guys anyway). But at times this book seemed to drag for me, occasionally the book was bogged down by the dialogue in Olivia or Aeron's head, and Legion's tantrums. And I was not really satisfied by the ending. Even though i was not 'head over heels' about this installment, by no means am i dropping this series. My issues with this particular book do not sway me from the series as a whole. I still love all the Lords of the Underworld and Olivia is a charming character. And I'm glad Legion got what was coming to her for trying to trap Aeron. We get some glimpses at some new characters and some old ones pop back up (Baden) and I can't wait to see what will happen next.

Tess Gerritsen-- "Ice Cold" (Rizzoli & Isles Novel)

synopsis:
In Wyoming for a medical conference, Boston medical examiner Maura Isles joins a group of friends on a spur-of-the-moment ski trip. But when their SUV stalls on a snow-choked mountain road, they're stranded with no help in sight.

As night falls, the group seeks refuge from the blizzard in the remote village of Kingdom Come, where twelve eerily identical houses stand dark and abandoned. Something terrible has happened in Kingdom Come: Meals sit untouched on tables, cars are still parked in garages. The town's previous residents seem to have vanished into thin air, but footprints in the snow betray the presence of someone who still lurks in the cold darkness--someone who is watching Maura and her friends.


***** (5 stars)
Excellent! Gerritsen does it again! Maura goes on an impulsive trip to try and straighten out her head and her love life. But everything goes wrong, stranded and lost with strangers,they manage to find a village in the middle of nowhere. 41 people have vanished into thin air and left behind a village with nothing but ghosts and questions. After an accident with one of her group, she tries to hike out to safety to get help. Only to find herself in a much dire situation. Fleeing for her life with her captor turned hero. She manages to survive in the wilderness and find the answers to the missing village and the 30 year history of lies and deceit that claimed to many victims. Loved it! Can't wait to see what happens to Rat, will his story continue with Sansone?

Jaime Rush-- "Touching Darkness" (The Offspring series)

synopsis:
Nicholas Braden has an uncanny psychic talent for finding things---which is why he's been recruited for a covert government program designed to hunt down terrorists. While his work for a shady controller named Darkwell is leading him down some very questionable alleyways, it's also bringing him closer to Olivia, Darkwell's stunning young assistant. A "good girl" with a wild secret side, Olivia tempts Nicholas in ways he never believed possible--and in his business, a loss of control could prove fatal.

But there is something not right about the operation. And as Nicholas and Olivia's passion reaches a white-hot intensity, chilling reversals of good and evil, of right and wrong, suddenly threaten their very survival.


(3.5 stars)
spoiler alert....
This is book 3 in the series, and truthfully it dragged for me. I read the first 2 each in just an afternoon. But this one did not move as quickly for me. And I can't quite put my finger on why, the characters were just as interesting and Nicholas and Olivia were a nice couple. But Olivia has no psychic powers and the drama with her father (Darkwell) was a little boring to get thru. A few more characters are introduced and are not all good guys. And now we find out they have alien DNA in them? Where is Rush taking this series? With Darkwell dead, who is on the side of evil now? Fonda is the only one left that worked for Darkwell, but there is still the open question of who is Pope? And is he an alien or another Offspring? It looks as though Fonda and Eric will be the focus of the next book in the series and I hope there will be more answers to the Alien DNA question.

Jaime Rush-- "Out of Darkness" (The Offspring series)

synopsis:
Rand Brandenburg can see the future, yet thus far all he has done with his unique ability is become a skillful gambler. But according to the Offspring, his power has made him a target and could get him killed. So the loner used to living on the edge is now hiding out with others just like him, including Zoe Stoker, a mysterious redhead who has his heart soaring.

But that's not the only thing Zoe's got flying. All her life, whenever she felt anything too intensely, objects would start moving. She's never been able to control her power, so instead she's shut down her emotions. Now as a powerful enemy approaches, she's losing control of her heart. But letting love lead her out of the darkness might save her life....

**** (4 stars)
Second book in this new series, and just as good as the first. The story has moved along at a fast pace, never slowing down or getting boring. The four original Rogue offspring have found 2 more to join their group, and this story is about them. But all of the group play parts in the story. The action is stepping up and more secrets have been revealed. I am usually a paranormal romance reader, but this story intrigued me and I was not disappointed. I am hooked! I don't know how far Rush can take this series, but I will enjoy the ride.....

Jaime Rush-- "A Perfect Darkness" (The Offspring series)

synopsis:
A sexy stranger awakens Amy Shane in the dead of the night. Lucas Vanderwyck barely has time to whisper a few words before three men burst into her bedroom and drag him away. But what Lucas reveals shatters Amy's safe little world forever.

Lucas and Amy share a psychic gift--a gift that could put them in mortal danger. And as they share night after night of savage passion, as a shadowy government conspiracy tracks their every move, they will fight to save each other. But only with their powers of second sight can they escape the terror of a perfect darkness.

****(4 stars)
New author, new series. Great new series! There wasn't a lot of back building to bog down the plot. It moves quickly,from the first page, with a lot of action, and likable characters. The story reminds me alot of Firestarter (stephen king). But takes it to a whole new level. The kids of the original "group" are all grown up and want answers. With psychic talents of their own, they find each other and form a bond that is at times funny and sad, but leaves you cheering for them. There are lots of layers under the main story. I am totally hooked!!

Karin Slaughter-- "Broken"

synopsis:
When Special Agent Will Trent arrives in Grant County, he finds a police department determined to protect its own and far too many unanswered questions about a prisoner's death. He doesn't understand why Officer Lena Adams is hiding secrets from him. He doesn't understand her police chief. He doesn't understand why that man's widow, Dr. Sara Linton, needs him now more than ever to help her crack this case.

While the police force investigates the murder of a young woman pulled from a frigid lake, Trent investigates the police force, putting pressure on Adams just when she's already about to crack. Caught between two complicated and determined women, trying to understand Linton's passionate distrust of Adams, the facts surrounding Chief Tolliver's death, and the complexities of this insular town. Trent will unleash a case filled with explosive secrets--and encounter a thin blue line that could be murderous if crossed.

***** (5 stars)
Closure. At least closure for the two people still feeling the impact of Jeffrey Tolliver's death. The murder that brings Will Trent to Grant County is just the catalyst that forces all the players to face their anger, betrayal, and grief at losing Jeffrey. Not that the murder mystery is not an important part of this book, but for readers of this series, it is just the background keeping the main characters we are obsessed with engaged with each other. The murders force a police department to unravel and secrets to fall out. Sara finds some resolution with her grief over Jeffrey's death and Lena takes a long hard look in the mirror at who she truly is. Slaughter delivers another winning installment in this series. I think we will finally be leaving Grant County behind us and moving forward in Atlanta. I can't wait to see where Slaughter takes Will and Sara....

Shannon Butcher-- "Running Scared" (Sentintel Wars)

synopsis:
Lexi Johns has one purpose: to free her best friend from the hands of the Sentinels. And Zach, the Sentinel she has been running from for months, has one goal: to convince her that their destinies are entwined. For the magic that Zach has absorbed could destroy him if he doesn't find the woman who can channel it for him. And he knows Lexi is the one.

From an early age, Lexi has been taught to fear the Sentinels. And now she is an agent of a group out to destroy them. So when Zach finds her, it is Lexi's chance to strike at the heart of the Sentinels. But, as Lexi sees Zach's courage, selflessness, and honor, she begins to doubt her beliefs--and is faced with an unbearable choice.


*** (3.5 stars)
Bored. The first 2 books in this series were full of action, layers, and characters. The series moved along at a pace that kept me from putting the book down. This one had me skimming thru most of it. Butcher spent way to much time keeping us inside Lexi's head, and it took to long to convince her to change her mind about the Sentinels, about 100 pages to much. I didn't feel the passion between her and Zach that I found with the previous 2 couples. Their story lost it's spark once he caught her. We had a couple of very short glimpses into other layers of the story, we know who the spy is, but the next plot he was told to accomplish died in a very short chapter. We got a glimpse at the lullaby project, but not enough to understand it. We got to meet the Prince who fathered some of the Theronai women, but it was a weak portion of the story. I'm not giving up on this series at all, I was just not as excited about this book. Looks like book 4 is about Nika and Madoc, and I am really looking forward to that story.

Shannon Butcher-- "Finding the Lost" (Sentinel Wars)

synopsis:
Andra Madison knows that monsters are real. She's been fighting them ever since her family was victimized by the Synestryn eight years ago. Now she's devoted to finding children who've been abducted by the Synestryn. When she gets a call about a lost little boy, she tracks him to a warehouse on the outskirts of town, where she's aided by the a trio of human men...or so she thinks.

Paul has been searching for centuries for a woman like Andra. To find her, he strikes a bargain with a bloodhunter that could cost him his life. Now his desire for Andra threatens to destroy his much-needed control. Against her wishes, Andra agrees to join Paul on a journey fraught with danger--one that leads directly to the Synestryn.

***** (5 stars)
I am so completely hooked on this series. I haven't found anything this exciting since I discovered Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark Hunters. The synopsis doesn't even begin to explain this series. It has so many layers and characters....to many to explain. Yes the obvious romance happens, and almost everyone gets the happy ending....but not all. Butcher leaves just enough unanswered questions to keep you wanting more. Does Zach find Lexi? Does Madoc save Nika? What happens when Andra's real father discovers what happened? What monsters are the Synestryn creating now, and why do they need the children? I couldn't wait for these books to come in on wish list, so i ran out and bought them, and I'm not sure if I can part with them just yet.

Shannon butcher-- "Burning Alive" (The Sentinel Wars)

synopsis:
For too long, Helen Day has been haunted by visions of her own death, surrounded by flames as a dark-haired man watches her burn. So when she sees the man of her nightmares staring at her across a diner, she attempts to flee--and ends up in the man's arms. There, she awakens a force more powerful and enticing than she could ever imagine.

The instant the Theronai warrior Drake touches Helen, the anguish he has borne for years fades away. He is determined to know why this beautiful, fearful woman has such power over him. The answer lies in his very blood--and in Helen's as well. For together, they may become more than lovers. They may become a weapon of light that could tip the balance of the war--and save Drake's people.


***** (5 stars)
What a surprising new series! It is not your usual paranormal romance. The story is new, and the paranormal aspect of it is a surprisingly different vision. I loved the characters, and there are many of them. You could become attached to them easily, and the story has many character layers happening. But it is easy to follow along. I was hooked in the first 20 pages. Most new series spend a lot of time setting up, that I get bored before the action started. But not this one, it makes you dive right in to the deep end. It captured my attention so well that i didn't put it down until i finished it (and i got it in the mail this morning). Now i can't wait to get the next ones on wish list, I am heading to the store to get the next 2!!

Pamela Palmer-- "Rapture Untamed" (Feral Warriors series)

synopsis:
The most combative--and tormented--of all the Ferals, Jag is a predator who hunts alone--until daemons terrorize the human population. To stop them, he partners with Olivia, a flame-haired Therian temptress as strong as she is beautiful. but Olivia is no ordinary immortal. The survivor of a vicious supernatural attack, she possesses a deadly and forbidden skill--one that must remain hidden, especially from the powerful Feral Warriors.

As Jag and Olivia's sensual dance of dominance and seduction gets wilder and hotter, a dark force sets its sights on Olivia, threatening to destroy everything she has vowed to protect. And the only one who can save her soul is the arrogant jaguar shifter she lusts for but dares not love.

**** (4 stars)
Not my favorite couple, but I still like them. Jag and Olivia have a lot of baggage going into this book. Working out ones demons is always a rough ride, but their story is worth telling. This series has been one of my best discoveries, don't let the titles or the cover art fool you. They are not cheesy romance. They have a story and each of the warriors will hook you with theirs. This one felt a little too long but WOW, what a cliff hanger this one has! I won't give it away, but i will be watching the mailbox for the next book.

Lora Leigh-- "Heat Seeker" (Elite Ops series)

synopsis:
John Vincent has always led a life of danger, and now he has every reason to want to remain as dead as the obituary in the Australian papers had proclaimed him to be. He'd left nothing behind in the life he had once led--except for one woman, and one night of unforgettable passion. Now, both will return to haunt him....

Bailey Serborne is still tormented by a past she can't change and a man she hasn't been able to forget. A man who was supposed to be dead. But now, a stroke of fate has revealed that sometimes, a woman is given a second chance to heal a heart--and exact the sweetest revenge...


***(3 stars)
Didn't like this as much as the first two, their wasn't that desperate passion for each other that i found in the others. Bailey was an agent herself and she is a stronger character, not that wounded soul that needs rescuing. Their story was rather boring for me, i skimmed thru most of the middle to get to the end and i don't feel like i missed out on any of the story. I will still keep reading the series anyway, I Love Lora Leigh that much.

Lora Leigh-- "Maverick" (Elite Ops series)

synopsis:
Micah Sloane knows almost everything there is to know about Risa Clay, including the vicious betrayal she endured years ago and the distrust she's harbored ever since. The only way for the Elite Ops agent to uncover an assassin--and banish the ghosts of his own dark past--is to use Risa as bait. But nothing has prepared him for her disarming blend of innocence and sensuality, or for his overwhelming need to protect her...

Risa has spent eight years rebuilding her life. And now, to save it, she must pose as Micah's lover and draw a killer into the open. It's a risky plan--especially with a man as powerfully seductive as Micah. But as their charade becomes reality, Risa realized the greatest danger may lie in losing her heart forever....


***** (5 stars)
Love it as much as the first one. It has a dark edge to it that keeps you hooked into their story. The whole team makes appearances in this one along with Wild Card aka Noah Blake. And just like Noah and Bella's story, Risa and Micah have a hunger for each other that borders on desperate. This one takes you back to one of the victims that Noah Blake rescued from the drug lord, Risa, she has spent years recovering, and now an assassin has been given the order to kill her before she remembers who drugged and raped her. In steps Micah to protect her and hunt the assassin himself, because this particular assassin killed his parents and nearly killed him when Micah got to close to capturing him.

Keri Arthur-- "Moon Sworn" (Riley Jenson series)

synopsis:
Shape-shifting werewolf and vampire Riley Jenson is through with death--causing it, solving it, surviving it. Her soul mate, Kye Murphy, is dead--and at Riley's own hands. Not even the seductive embrace of her vampire lover, Quinn, can fully ease her mind, for she has begun questioning everything that makes her Riley--including her job at the directorate.

Now the ritualistically slain bodies of ex-cons have started turning up. Reluctantly, Riley takes the case, but something even worse is waiting in the wings. A vicious enemy from her past is determined to strip Riley of everything that gives her life meaning: her lover, her brother--and even her own identity. Can Riley survive this ultimate assault? All she knows is that she must fight one last time to find answers, before everything goes dark forever.


***** (5 stars)
I will really miss Riley Jenson, rumor has it that Arthur has ended the series with Moon Sworn. And she absolutely ended with all the pieces tied together that I am sure will please everyone. All issues are addressed and everyone gets their happy ending, but Riley had to go thru hell to get there. She has one last case that gets her kidnapped, her memories erased and almost gets her killed. But Riley is to strong to be defeated, she fights back and puts the puzzle together and escapes to find her way back to those she loves the most. I hope we will see some peeks into Riley's new pack thru Risa's series. I look forward to it.

Pamela Palmer-- "Passion Untamed" (Feral Warriors series)

synopsis:
Though the Mage witch Skye has a gentle heart, demonic forces have enslaved her, forcing her to kidnap Paenther, a powerful and dangerous Feral Warrior. Even chained and naked, Paenther is a cunning prisoner who seduces her, body and soul, turning captive into captor.

Paenther's pride demands revenge from the deep woods like a sensual vision and enthralled him, even as she makes his body burn with passion. Despite his fury over her treachery, Skye's gentle beauty calls to his soul, calming the wild chaos within him, and stealing his heart. But when evil threatens, Paenther and Skye's only chance at survival is to trust in one another...and the power of love.

***** (5 stars)
Foxx and Paenther have been searching the Blue Ridge Mountains looking for Vhyper and the Daemon blade. After stopping at a market, Paenther spots the Mage witch who will capture his attention. But she has been a slave to an evil Mage and is being forced to enthrall him and capture him. During his imprisonment, he discovers she is not like the others, she still retains her soul. Skye helps him escape and the two of them battle a whole host of obstacles to save his friends, his paenther spirit and her life. I absolutely loved this pair, i read this in one afternoon. There is something compelling about them, and I dare you not to cry at the end. This is as much Skye's story as it is Paenthers, even as it is Vhypers escape from the Mage madman.

Pamela Palmer-- "Obsession Untamed" (Feral Warriors series)

synopsis:
Every time she closes her eyes, Delaney Randall suffers another nightmare. A brutal serial killer has found his way inside the tough, take-no-prisoners FBI agent's head. Now she lives the murders through his eyes, from his deadly approach to his victims' screams--until the night he breaks into her apartment and she fears she's going to be the next to die.

But the man who snatches Delaney from her home isn't the murderer. He's Tighe, a dangerous Feral Warrior who needs her and her visions to stop the rampages of a creature as inhuman as he is evil. Tighe has little use for humans, but as he and Delaney join forces to track the dark fiend, he falls for the intense beauty and becomes wild with an obsession as untamed as his heart.


**** (4 stars)
This is the second book in this new series. In this one, Tighe and the other Feral's are still chasing down Tighe's twin clone and looking for the Daemon blade. Tighe suddenly loses his sight and is struck be a vision that has him seeing thru his clone's eyes while he is killing. One of the clone's victims' is an FBI agent who escapes with a bite, tying her to Tighe and the clone by visions of the clone's murders. Tighe has to find her in order to stop the clone, but falls for he along the way. The passion just wasn't there for me in this one, but i love Tighe's character and followed the story thru to the end. The Feral Warriors are another step closer to ending the current nightmare and the Mage's plan to free the Daemons. Even though I wasn't in love with Tighe's story, I am in love with the Feral Warrior's as a whole and will keep reading as soon as Palmer writes them.

Lora Leigh-- "Wild Card" (Elite Ops series)

synopsis:
It was supposed to be simple. All Navy SEAL Nathan Malone had to do was rescue three young girls from a Colombia drug cartel, then allow himself to be captured just long enough to draw out a government spy. That was before his mission went disastrously wrong...and before his wife, Bella, was told that Nathan was never coming home....

Bella's mourned her husband's death for three long years. But she has no idea he's still alive. Forced to assume a new identity, the man Nathan was is now dead. If he can get back to his wife, can he keep the secret of who he really is...even as desire threatens to consume them? And as danger threatens to tear Bella from Nathan's arms one more?

***** (5 stars)
I have read Lora Leighs Breed series, so i gave this one a chance. I don't usually like government, spy, or political based stories. But this one had a mystery/thriller kind of base story to it so i gave it a chance. And i was not disappointed, i loved it, couldn't put it down. As with all Lora Leigh stories, the sexual attraction is mind blowing and the sex scenes leave nothing to the imagination. But there is a story here. There are people turning up dead in the Texas desert, killed in a horrible fashion, and too many for anyone to ignore now. Nathan, now Noah, is sent to his old home town to find the truth and stop the murders. But he finds it hard to keep his hands off his wife. She doesn't know who Noah is or why he is really there, she thinks he is just another mechanic her brother-in-law hired. But a woman always knows who her soul belongs to....the face may have been changed but the heart always knows who holds it. The path that Nathan (Noah) and Bella take thru their grief and pain to find each other again, really brings the characters to life for me and i found myself routing for them to have that happy ending. Some of the bad guys were predictable, but there were still a few suprises in store. Can't wait to read the rest of this series.

Pamela Palmer-- "Desire Untamed" (Feral Warriors series)

synopsis:
They are called Feral Warriors--an elite band of Immortals who can change shape at will. Sworn to rid the world of evil, consumed by sorcery and seduction, their wild natures are primed for release...

Kara MacAllister's quiet small-town life is transformed forever the night a powerful stranger rips her from her home, claiming she is the chosen one--the key to his survival.

Spiriting her away into the rain-soaked night, Lyon reveals a truth Kara can barely credit. She's immortal, and the only one who can save his race. And deep within her, he arouses a fierce, primal hunger beyond anything she's ever imagined. But only when their lives are threatened by an ancient evil will Kara and Lyon realize they have found a love they would risk their immortal souls to claim....and a powerful desire that could never, ever be tamed.


***** (5 stars)
This is a new author for me, it was a suggestion based on previous wish list items. And I couldn't put it down! Don't let the title or cover art turn you away. It is well written and the characters are very likable. I kinda figured out who the "bad guy" was half way thru, but i had no idea the full scope of the evil plot. There were some surprises in the end. The Feral Warriors are a "frat boy" kind of bunch, but are loyal and lovable. Kara and Lyon's story has quite a few close calls with death, for both of them, but their love saves them both along with their friends. Since there can only be one radiant at a time, i am curious how the other warriors stories will play out and who they will fall for. The warriors are still trying to stop the evil from escaping, but without the knife and the other half of Tighe's soul, the battle has only just begun...

Rhyannon Byrd-- "Touch of Surrender" (Primal Instinct Series)

synopsis:
With his auburn hair and lean build, Keirland Scott looks more man than lycan. But his wolf instincts are aroused by the gray-eyed Morgan Cantrell. Not because of her beauty, but because of her long-ago betrayal, a fateful choice that made their love impossible.

Now however, the two Watchmen must team up, leaving the placid Lake Country for the forests of Scandinavia. To rescue Kierland's brother, they must track a vampire--and use their combined shape-shifting sensitivities in a battle that will take them beyond death. As the two learn to seek together, they begin to understand the history that has driven them apart. But they will have to overcome death itself, if their shared passion is to have a chance.

***** (5 stars, loved it!)
I am always waiting for the post office to deliver the newest Rhyannon Byrd book like a kid waiting for Santa. Her characters are well developed with alot of baggage, of course, but they are still lovably dysfunctional and leaves you hoping they find their happy ending. In this installment, Kierland has to find his wayward brother Kellen, and needs Morgan to do it. Kierland has loved Morgan from the moment he set eyes on her, but did everything in his power to push her away and deny what he felt. Morgan loved him just the same, but with no hope of getting what she wanted she sought solace with a vamp named Ashe. But he was not who she really wanted. Once they start on the trail to find Kellan all their baggage comes out in the open, and as is such in the paranormal romance world, they make love in the most odd places and the most odd times. But what can you do when you can't take another breath without being skin to skin with the person who drives you mad with lust (and love). The main story doesn't move as much this time, but there is still some of the main story plot moving along. Westmore has kidnapped a few people and all the same enemies are about. Can't wait till Kellan's book come out!

Gena Showalter-- "Twice as Hot" (Tales of an Extraordinary Girl)

synopsis:
Belle Jamison is finally starting to feel like a normal girl again. Her job as a paranormal investigator is going well, she's learned to control her supernatural abilities (mostly) and she's just gotten engaged to Rome Masters, the ultra-sexy operative who once tried to neutralize her!

But planning a wedding is never easy, especially when the bride keeps accidentally torching her dress, the groom returns from a dangerous mission with selective memory loss and the man responsible now wants Belle for himself. With Rome's ex determined to win him back and a new band of supervillains on the horizon, it will take all Belle's powers--plus a little help from her trusty empath sidekick--to save the day, salvage the wedding and prove that true love really does conquer all.

***This is the second in this series, and is just a addictive as the first. You will need to read the first one to get the basics of the story, and then you will find Rome and Belle just as interesting as i find them. Belle has quite a team, from Tanner and Sherridan, to Cody and Lexis. A few new members are added to the team and their characters are developed as much as Belle and Rome. I love all of them! (even though Lexis is a bitch most of the time) This time the team is off to rescue some team members and stop another nasty scrim named Desert Girl (she can drain the water out of you) This book did seem a little lengthy, but the added pages leads you to what might be in the next installment. There is alot of emotional drama occurring between Rome and Belle, so for the most of the book you don't know how they might wind up. But there a lot of happy endings to go around.....

Shayla Black-- Possess Me at Midnight" (Doomsday Brethren Novel)

synopsis:
As a mysterious dark cloud drains the life of her beloved brother, Doomsday Brethren leader Bram, Sabelle Rion can think of little else. Still, every time she meets Ice Rykard's intense green gaze, her body aches with need for the sexy warrior. Their attraction is explosive, incredible--and forbidden. As dangerous as he is unpredictable, Ice is her brother's sworn enemy. But as Bram weakens, a more sinister force is gaining power.

Evil Mathias and his ruthless Anarki army are on a bloodthirsty hunt for the Doomsday Diary. Sabelle must guard the potent book with her life--and Ice vows to protect the beautiful witch with his. Duty demands that Sabelle deny her lover's fiery call of possession and mate with a man who can sway the magical Council against the impending rebellion. With the fate of magickind hanging in the balance, will she forsake the burning desires she can't ignore or turn her back on her people for the courageous man she can't resist?


***Sabelle and Ice are my second favorite couple. In this book, the story moves along with Mathias attacking several council members homes and driving the Brethren into hiding until they hatch a plan to keep Mathias from a council seat by placing Ice there instead. I really enjoyed Sabelle and Ice's story, their romance is endearing and shows you can overcome just about anything. A few new Brethren are added, not much is known about them yet. But the twins show promise as intriguing characters. And now that i am finally hooked on this series, i can't wait for the next one.

Shayla Black-- "Seduce Me in Shadow" (Doomsday Brethren novel)

synopsis:
Ex-marine Caden Mactavish has shunned his magical heritage all his life, but he will do anything to heal his desperately ill brother, a doomsday Brethren warrior in mourning for his missing mate. Posing as a photographer, Caden must convince firecracker tabloid reporter Sydney Blair to reveal the source of her recent expose on a supernatural power clash. Unfortunately, keeping his hands off the sizzling redhead proves as hard as getting them onto the potent and mystical doomsday Diary he discovers at her bedside. A bloody rebellion led by an evil, power-hungry wizard is imminent. If Sydney divulges the book's existence, she will jeopardize magickind's most deeply guarded secrets and become the ruthless wizard's number one target. Caden has never trusted magic's cruel and dangerous powers, but he will protect Sydney with his life and magic--even if it means risking his heart.

***Ok, I admit I wasn't going to read the rest of this series, but left with little else to read, I read on. There is an actual story moving along in this series, not a great one mind you, but there is a story. I like the first book better than this one, I didn't get attached to this couple. But I was given the first 3 books in this series, so i figured i should read them in order to be able to follow the story. Mathias is still on the loose, and the Brethren are still grasping at straws to find a way to defeat him. Same plan as the first book, sort of. But I disliked the part of the story regarding energy surrogates and Sabelle using her body to help Lucan. It all seemed a little barbaric and the repeated use of the term "mounting" when referring to a sexual encounter takes all the romance out it. (and don't get me started on the actual titles for these books) I hope the next book is better...

Shayla Black-- "Temp Me with Darkness" (Doomsday Brethren Novel)

synopsis:
As soon as Marrok sees Olivia Gray's dark windswept hair and burning violet eyes, he's sure they've met in eons past. He's felt her soft gentle curves writhing in pleasure beneath his own hard powerful body...Morganna! For centuries, towering Marrok, once the mightiest of King Arthur's warriors, has endured a terrible curse cast upon him when he spurned the witch.

Olivia shares a mystical--and irresistible--connection with brooding Marrok. Soon after the sexy warrior appears in her erotic dreams, he abducts her, demanding she uncurse him. Their intense passion is more powerful--and intimate--than either of them has ever known. Olivia may be the key to unlocking the diary that will break Morganna's hold on his life. But in the wrong hands, the book also holds the power to destroy all magickind. As they search for answers, a ruthless wizard returned from exile is building an army of evil. When he discovers Marrok and Olivia have the diary, only their love--with the help of a powerful group of magical Brethren--can save them.


***This is not my typical choice of book to read. It is based on magic, wielded by bloodlines started by Merlin and Morgan le Fay. One evil, one good. It took me a good 100 pages to get into the story, I am not used to reading stories based in England. But once the story got going, I found myself enjoying the humor and connection between Marrok and Olivia. Their love story is cute, in no way original by any means. Strong woman saves brooding man from himself. But there is a backstory developing that takes the story along with them and a few more characters come into play. All in all it was a good Sunday afternoon read, not a keeper, but ok. This seems to be the beginning of a series, I won't rush out to buy them, but i might read the rest of it on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Charlaine Harris-- "Dead in the Family" (Sookie Stackhouse series)

synopsis:
Even with the blood of 2 vampires in her system, Sookie is having trouble healing from the terrible torture she endured at the hands of her great-grandfather's enemies during the brief but deadly Fae War. Worse are the emotional wounds, especially over the loss of her own personal fairy godmother and the near death of her first love. Sookie is hurt and she's mad. Just about the only bright spot in her life, besides the fact that she is, after all, still alive--is the love she thinks she feels for vampire Eric Northman, who is under scrutiny by the new vampire king because of their relationship.

As the political implications of the shifters' coming-out are beginning to be felt, Sookie's connection one particular Were draws her into the dangerous debate. And, unknown to her, though the doors to Faery have been closed, there are still some fae on the human side--and one of them is angry at Sookie. Very, very angry.


***It seemed like i had read the last book a long, long time ago. I had to skim thru it to refresh my memory of what happened. This book seemed almost tame compared to the previous ones. The "edge of your seat" thrill just wasn't in it. It did have it's tense moments, it was not boring by any means. But just not quite as exciting as previous ones. I would have liked to delve more into the side stories with Eric's maker and Bill's blood sister. And Sookie's relationship with Eric gets deeper, and as always the were's are stirring up their own trouble, Alcide still has the hots for Sookie, i wonder if they will ever be together again? But we do get to know Claude a little better, and somehow Sookie still lands on her feet......

You really have to start at the beginning of this series to understand it all. And don't compare the TV series "trueblood" to the books. The story gets "tweaked" to make it great television. But i am biased and like the books better....

Ted Dekker-- "Boneman's Daughters"

synopsis:
They call him BoneMan,a serial killer who's abducted six young women. He's the perfect father looking for the perfect daughter, and when his victims fail to meet his lofty expectations, he kills them by breaking their bones and leaving them to die.

Intelligence officer Ryan Evans, on the other hand, has lost all hope of ever being the perfect father. His daughter and wife have written him out of their lives.

Everything changes when BoneMan takes Ryan's estranged daughter, Bethany, as his seventh victim. Ryan goes after BoneMan on his own.

But the FBI sees it differently. new evidence points to the suspicion that Ryan is BoneMan. Now the hunter is the hunted, and in the end, only one father will stand.


***This is the first Ted Dekker book I have read and I liked it. It was a bit confusing to follow at first, but then the backstory falls into place and the race is on. This story shows how parents can go wrong. And how one father can change and beat all odds to save his daughter. I wish the Boneman's identity hadn't been revealed so soon, but there was still alot of edge to this story. The BoneMan is twisted in ways that boggle the mind and his way of defeating those who he perceives have disappointed him are almost beyond imagination. There are a lot of characters in this book, not too many to overload the story, but enough to make it a multi layered one. Dekker's character development brings you to cheer for the good guy and wish death on the bad guy. Give it a try, it is a long book, but worth the effort.

Amanda Ashley-- "Immortal Sins"

synopsis:
Three centuries ago, vampire Jason Rourke succumbed to temptation with a wizard's lovely daughter, and that brief taste of pleasure earned him a powerful curse. Trapped within a painting, unable to quench the hellish thirst that torments him, Jason has given up hope of escape until Karinna Adams purchases the painting and unwittingly frees him.

At first, Jason plans only to enlist Kari's help in navigating this strange new world so he can find and punish the wizard who entrapped him. But Kari's enticing sensuality and innocence incite a growing need in Jason to touch and taste her, to possess her utterly. For the gulf between them, and the danger that awaits, is nothing compared to a potent, primal hunger that will last for all eternity....

***Plain. That is the best word to describe this book, just plain, like vanilla. I picked it up because it had a different premise than any other vampire book I have read. But there was really no passion, just a slightly sweet story. When Jason was trapped in the painting, his lover, the daughter of a wizard, was trapped in her own painting. After Jason is freed, he finds and frees her as well, bringing her to Kari's home. Luisa still childlike after being trapped for 300 years in a painting, runs away and finds her own vampire to love. When the wizard finds them and traps Kari in a painting to punish Jason, he must turn Kari into a vampire to break the curse and free her from the painting. It was generally boring and if it hadn't been just different enough of a story, i would have never finished it. I don't think i will read anymore of this author.

Christine Warren-- "You're So Vein" (Other series)

synopsis:
Ava Markham is beautiful, savvy, chic, and more at home with Kate Spade than with the idea of fangs and fur. She can't quite get used to the fact that some of her closest friends have crossed over to the Other side. Then one night she is attacked by a rogue vampire, and her deepest fears are realized when her body begins a dangerous transformation from human to immortal--a change she cannot survive without the help of an alluring stranger who comes to her rescue...

Vladimir "Dima" Rurikovich, an elite member of the European Council of Vampires, is on the prowl for a murderous vampire fugitive on the night he saves Ava from the clutches of death. It takes just one look for Dima to know he cannot live another eight centuries without the stunning and seductive Ava--until he discovers a secret about her bloodline that could change everything....


***I have never liked Ava throughout the series, she is a very unlikable character. And for her to finally have her happy ending is a little hard to believe. I liked that Dima is Misha's long lost brother. But in truth i skimmed thru most of this story just so i could find out what happened with "Liza" the escaped vampire Dima came here to recapture. I am more inclined to be happy that Dima got his happy ending.

Christine Warren-- "Big Bad Wolf" (Other series)

synopsis:
Missy Roper's fantasizes have revolved around Graham Winters since the moment they met. But the imposing leader of the Silverback werewolf clan always seemed oblivious to Missy's existence. At least he was, until Missy collides with him at a party and then abruptly runs away--arousing Graham's interest...and wild desires.

Lupine law decrees that every Alpha must have a mate, and all Graham's instincts tell him that the sensual, beguiling Missy is his. Trouble is, Missy is human--every delectable inch of her. Convincing his clan that she's his destined mate, and keeping her safe from his enemies, will be the biggest challenge Graham has ever faced. And now that he is determined to have her--as his lover and his mate--Missy's world is changing in ways she never imagined....

***This is my favorite couple in the series! I couldn't put this one down and practically read it straight thru the nite. I didn't want it to end. And it really doesn't since they play a part of several upcoming stories. I didn't read these in order so i already know their path. And each of the books in this series stand alone. But i still enjoyed discovering their story and learning more about the werewolf clan culture. If you can find the correct reading order, start there, but you won't be disappointed no matter what order you read them in.

Christine Warren-- "One Bite with a Stranger" (Other series)

synopsis:
When Regina's friends insist on setting her up on a "Fantasy Fix" to help her get over her cheating ex, she dreams up some kinky out-of-this-world encounters that they could never possible bring to life. But the next thing Regina knows, her friends have got her laced into a shiny black corset, tight leather pants, and a sexy pair of stilettos. It's time for some downtown vampire-fantasy fun....

The Vampire Ball in Manhattan's East Village isn't really Dmitri's idea of a good time, but as a member of the Council that governs The Others, he has to keep an eye on all the young vamps who prey on the pretenders. After he feasts his dark eyes on fiery Regina at the bar, he knows that he must have her. But for the first time, Dmitri meets a woman who is more that a match for his indomitable will. And he may be the fantasy Regina hoped for...until she-and her feisty friends--discover her sexy new lovers bloodsucking secret.


***At first i was confused about the path of this book, since Rafe and Graham are not mated or high ranking members of the Council of Others. Then i realized i have read this book out of order, it should have been the first one i read, not the 4th. Oh well, the story stands alone just as well as part of the series since it was the first one written. It is just your basic vampire love story with just the whisper beginning of the series of the Others. I really like Dmitri and Regina, and who wouldn't want a fantasy to come true? I wish it were so......

Christine Warren-- "Demon You Know" (Others series)

synopsis:
As a research grunt at a local television station, Abby Baker tends to blend into the background, which is where she's most comfortable. But when she ends up being the last resort to cover a hot story. Abby discovers a whole new side to their personality when she is possessed by a fiend--a type of rogue demon. Suddenly everyone wants a piece of her. And now the demon Rule--a hunter of his own kind who have gone astray--is Abby's only hope...

Meanwhile, the Others--vampires, werewolves, and witches--have come out of the supernatural closet and humans are all aflutter. Mischief is afoot in the demon realm, and Rule knows that Abby is key to figuring it all out before the fiends tip the fragile balance between the newly discovered Others and the humans into an epic battle. It's now up to two lost souls to make love, not war....


***Didn't love it, didn't hate it. I'm in the middle so to speak. It was ok, but not nearly as funny as the other books in this series. And i didn't find myself drawn to this couple at all. The romance between Abby and Rule didn't seem as passionate as the "Other" couples we have read about. Abby gets possessed by a runaway demon informant, and the conversations between the two of them are the only humorous parts. I found Abby's brother a much more interesting character, but he only plays a small part. Hope to see him in a future book.....and i will be reading on.

Christine Warren-- "She's No Farie Princess" (others series)

synopsis:
Queen Mab's niece, Fiona, wants nothing to do with the intrigues of court life. She'd prefer to cut loose at a punk club, knock back a few Thai beers, and hook up with a likely lad of similar interests. But when Fiona goes AWOL, she only gets as far as Manhattan's Central Park before a nasty demon nearly puts a permanent crimp in her plans, and a dark stranger sparks her desire....
All work and no play make Tobias Walker one cranky werewolf. After six months of doing his part to keep the peace during the delicate negotiations between the Others and humankind, he'd like nothing more that a good night's sleep, preceded by an enthusiastic mating session. The alluring woman he rescues in the park might be the answer to his most lustful prayers, but only if they can both stay alive long enough to find out who wants her dead and why.


***I had forgotten how funny Christine Warren is. She has quite a sense of humor. I find myself laughing out loud at parts. And as always the love story is as passionate as always. Fiona and Tobias are quite a pair. The story moves along a little further with the negotiations finalizing towards revealing the Others to humanity. But Fiona's uncle has a better, more selfish plan of his own. And it is up to Fiona and her new found friends to stop him. And love conquers all....

Eileen Wilks-- "Blood Magic" (Lupi series)

synopsis:
As they plan their wedding, Lily Yu and Rule Turner, a prince of the lupi, are facing a great deal of tension from both their families. Not everyone can accept their mixed marriage: she's Chinese; he's a werewolf. Even Lily's grandmother is acting strangely distant, though Lily and Rule are about to discover that her behavior has nothing to do with their upcoming nuptials. A powerful, undying nemesis has come to San Diego to exact vengeance on Lily's family, and turn the city into a feeding ground. It's up to Lily and Rule to stop her, in spite of ancient treaties and an inheritance passed down through the blood. Otherwise San Diego could go up in flames, and they won't live to make it to the altar....

***When i started this series, i really enjoyed it. But now, i am having to force myself to finish a book. I skimmed and skipped whole chapters to get to the end of this one. This series has lost it's charming romance and is mainly a magical thriller. I want more romance and less war. All in all, it's still not a bad series, I still really like the main characters, but it doesn't keep my interest anymore and i put it down several times to read other books before coming back to it and skipping to the end. I still want to read about Lily and Rule's wedding, I just hope that Wilks doesn't stick it in a short story on her website like she did Cullen and Cynna's.

Jacquelyn Frank-- "Stealing Kathryn" (The Gatherers)

synopsis:
Sandman, Angus, Morpheus. He is know by many names, except his true one, Adrian. When he departs his world, it is to enter the sacred space of sleep, and he is not there to sow sweet dreams. Adrian's mission is to reap the dark energy of nightmares, work that has twisted his soul as well as is once-handsome face. Now, he lives only to await the day darkness finally overcomes him...and to collect exquisite reminders of what he's lost....
But there is one treasure that stands apart. Having risked everything to obtain her, Adrian soon realizes his mistake. For Kathryn has a wholly unexpected power over him, not only for what she represents, but for what she IS: a soul with desires as strong as his own, tempered by compassion that could save Adrian from his self-made hell---or condemn them both...


***This is the second story of The Gatherers, and not my favorite. Julian's story was more informative about what the gatherers truly are. If you have not read Hunting Julian, you will not understand the world they live in. And there is not much "set up" in this one. This story is solely about Kathryn saving Adrian....from himself. I enjoyed the love story between the two, but there just wasn't a "spark" in this one. Nice story overall, but not a keepsake book. This book just seemed to be a bridge to maybe a new world Frank is taking us to??? Hope so, she has quite an imagination. The worlds she creates are like nothing i have ever read. It is definitely NOT your usual paranormal romance.