Somebody to Love by Kristan Higgins

BookTalk

Parker Wells is loaded. Girl’s rich like Midas and raising her son in the family compound. But Parker isn’t just some spoiled rich girl. She’s focused on raising her son along with her son’s father…who just so happens to be married to Parker’s BFF. She has a bestselling series of children’s books featuring a band of  rollerskating angels named The Holly Rollers. And those perky pipsqueeks are about to debut in their first full lengh feature film!

Life is really comfortable for Parker…sure there’s no man turning on “Lady Land” but a girl can be happy with a beautiful child and full life.

That is until Parker’s Dad…and all of his assets (including Parker’s trust fund and home) are seized by the government. Parker is now homeless, and almost penniless looking at a pretty bleak future. Her only hope is renovating and selling a forgotten Aunt’s coastal home in rural Maine. Pumped up with hope, a new puppy, and a hot, but annoying minion of her father’s tagging along Parker may be able to change her life around…And she may find that her new life is worth far more than the wealthy one she lost…

Review

I loved this book. Can I just leave my review at that?

Just say: “Read It”

Tell you to find a comfie couch, cup of coffee, glass of wine and read, read, read

Offer the advice to “Save this one for when you really need a great dose of chick lit”

…For when you want to find a funny and surprisingly strong heroine make the most out of life

When you want to see a fiesty relationship spring from a misunderstood past…

When you want to kick back with some lemonade and imagine watching the hero nail some shingles to your beach cottage…shirtless…

I Change my Mind. Wait till the summer to read this one. Save it for a beach chair and some waves, a deck and a cold beer, a pool float and some SPF.

Enjoy watching characters from Higgins previous books (Catch of the Day and The Next Best Thing) find more Happily Ever After.

Laugh about all the references to “Lady Land”

Just read this one…You’ll thank me, because like I said after I read Until There Was You, Higgins only gets better and better with each book released.

4/5 For an almost perfect Chick Lit read. 

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Holiday Kisses by Shannon Stacey, Jaci Burton, HelenKay Dimon, and Alison Kent

Holiday Kisses is an anthology by Carina Press full of delightful Christmas-time tales. As it’s getting closer and closer to the big day I’ve broken this review down story by story. So those of you who were early birds and finished shopping in October can Click Here to purchase the full eBook version of the anthology. Those of *cough* us *cough* who may have forgotten how quickly 25 days go by may want to invest in the titles individually. You know, for that quick hour to be found while waiting in line at the mall…

…Don’t judge, you know you’ve seen me reading in the checkout line and though longingly of your own Nook waiting for you at home…Shop Prepared People! lol…

Simply click on each title to be directed to the Carina Press page where the ebooks can be purchased for about 3 dollars a copy. That’s less than a Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Latte! And much more relaxing…especially if you splurge on the Starbucks as well 😉

Without Further Ado…Holiday Kisses…

This Time Next Year – Alison Kent

Brenna Keating is on her way to spend Christmas with her grandmother when treacherous roads and a skittish deer put her car in a ditch. Riding to the rescue—literally—is Dillon Craig, a reclusive doctor who insists she weather the storm in his cabin.

Since returning from Afghanistan where he treated wounded soldiers on the front lines, Dillon’s made it a point to avoid any emotional involvement. But his unexpected guest has him dangerously close to breaking his own rules.

Brenna has a plan for her life—until she’s stranded for three days with Dillon. Soon, the chemistry sizzling between them forces her to reexamine her priorities. The man is gorgeous, if taciturn, and a true hero in every sense of the word. No woman in her right mind could resist him, and so Brenna doesn’t—even though she can’t stay…

This title was the perfect opening to this anthology. I really found myself wishing this was a full length story. Because, even with the constraints of a novella Kent really took the time to give them full personalities. Brenna and Dillon were complex. She’s torn between a lifelong dream and the reality she may not want to leave behind. Dillon is recovering from tours in Afghanistan, haunted by those he was unable to save as a medic in the Army.

I liked Brenna and Dillon together. I could tell that they were the perfect fit to heal each other’s wounds. I just wish that they had been given a full story to flesh out all the complexities Kent gives them. While the novella felt complete…the reader in me itched for a little more time. Maybe Kent will re-release in time as a longer work. I’d like to know more of their histories, spend some time with the mountain people, watch Dillon work on his woodworking craft shirtless…And I’d really love to see some of the love letters the characters sent to each other…Hint, Hint! lol.

Rating: 3.5/5 If only we had a little more time with their love…

A Rare Gift Jaci Burton

With a disastrous marriage behind him, Wyatt Kent has no interest in getting involved with any woman, let alone his ex-wife’s younger sister. But when Calliope Andrews hires him to build an addition onto her day care center, Wyatt can’t help but notice she’s a desirable woman, as warm and funny as his ex was cold and aloof.

Calliope fell hard for Wyatt the first time he walked through the door of her family’s home, and can’t believe her sister let him get away. He’s still the star of all her fantasies, and she’s determined to prove to him she’s nothing like his manipulative ex. Wyatt may be all business, but Calliope sees the way he looks at her when he’s supposed to be working…

It’s not long before Wyatt and Calliope are keeping each other warm on cold December nights. But it’s going to take a Christmas miracle for Wyatt to put his trust in love a second time.

Can I tell you how much I loved this story? I really felt like the characters had time to circle around each other. I didn’t feel like their romantic progression was rushed. And can I just tell you how cute this romantic progression is? Calliope is a quirky girl who knows what she wants and sets out to get him. The potential awkwardness that could result from a woman dating her sister’s ex-husband is dispersed by Calliope’s enthusiasm. Just watching Wyatt’s bear-like nature melt under Calliope’s love and attention was lovely 😉 Too cute. I wanted to eat this story up. It was so good, I need to stop myself now before I continue to gush…One of the best of the book for sure.

Rating: 5/5 Potentially awkward romance gives lots of wonderful love instead. 

It’s Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon

Carrie Anders officially broke up with Austin Thomas when she accepted a dream job in the city. Unofficially, she misses him and is tempted to sneak back to her West Virginia hometown to see him. That’s why this year, she’s not going home for the holidays. Her heart can’t take any more mornings-after where nothing has changed—and Austin has made it clear he’s not interested in relocating.

Austin’s been waiting for Carrie to realize she can’t live without him. But when he hears she’s not coming home for Christmas, he decides to take action. If Carrie won’t come to the country, he’s going to bring a piece of the country to Carrie—in the form of a Christmas tree lot just minutes from her apartment. He’s certain daily meetings will entice her to come home with him, this time for good.

Their attraction is as hot as ever, but with such contrary Christmas wishes, can either of them get what they really want this year?

I’ll admit, I could have skipped this tale. It’s about a relationship that has been on hiatus for roughly 6 months. This is after dating for years: think high school, college, and beyond. Carrie has moved to D.C. because Austin won’t compromise. Austin can’t understand why Carrie would like to have her own hopes and dreams fulfilled working in a prestigious museum rather than a small tourist trap in West Virginia. Silly man, the answer is Duh. What girl doesn’t want all her dreams to come true…even those that don’t include a man.

What bothered me was that in the end, I don’t think Austin got it. He openly hated Carrie’s job and spent the majority of the novella waiting for her to come to her senses and come home. While the do eventually reconcile and “compromise” it’s not in any way I see working in the long run. I wondered if maybe Carrie should have given the big city boys a chance…because Austin’s not giving up anything for her dream.

Rating: 1/5 I didn’t like their relationship…If Carrie was my girlfriend I’d tell her to move on…

Mistletoe and Margaritas by Shannon Stacey

Claire Rutledge still believes in love, despite losing her husband. So, after two years, she’s not surprised by the steamy dreams telling her it might be time to start moving on. But she didn’t expect her friend Justin to have the starring role.

Justin McCormick has loved Claire since the moment he first saw her, but his best friend got there first. Now that Claire is ready to move on with her life, Justin is finding it harder than ever to hide his true feelings. And when they both get caught up in the holiday spirits at a party, their simmering mutual attraction boils over into a night neither of them can forget…

Can I start by saying how much I love Shannon Stacey’s writing. When I interviewed her this summer she let it slip that this story would be out around the holidays. You don’t even want to see how excited I got when this collection went up on NetGalley. E.X.C.I.T.E.D. doesn’t even do it justice.

Stacey didn’t disappoint. Her characters, as always, were down to earth and funny. You hit this relationship not at its beginning but close to its boiling point. You’re literally waiting for these characters to implode! They’ve spent so much time trying to resist each other because of the nature of Claire’s first marriage that the tension is through the roof. Their relationship, both physical and emotional, comes together very realistically. Though this is the shortest title in the collection I never felt as though the progression of their relationship was rushed. And they were given time to deal with the emotional ramifications of their attraction. When this one ends you’ll find a Happily Ever After, not just because the Author tells you there will be one…but because you can see it for yourself in the character’s new-found understanding.

Rating: 4/5 Mistletoe spurs yet another relationship…Because something had to break that tension! 

*Book Received from Carina Press via NetGalley…I was in no way compensated for my review beyond the gift of a free book…Thanks!*

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TheLibrarian Interviews…Karen Erickson and Giveaway

Earlier today I reviewed the yummiest Christmas novella:

To add to the Christmas-goodies I’ve asked Karen to answer a few Christmas-themed questions. The three wise men brought 3 gifts in the Christmas story…So today I’m asking Karen Erickson for 3 gifts of my own, in the form of answers to my holiday-themed questions…

1. Your characters in Her Christmas Pleasure blended a bit of Naughty and a bit of Nice…and, frankly, the size of the novella itself was Naughty (I wanted more!) and Nice (perfect size for a quick yummy read) Considering this, where do you land on Santa’s list for writing this title? Naughty or Nice?

Well, considering I’ve written MUCH hotter titles than Her Christmas Pleasure, I’d say I’m more on the Nice side on Santa’s list, LOL. My historicals, while sexy, aren’t as hot as my earlier contemporary titles (specifically from my Playing With Fire series). So hopefully I made the Nice list – though being on the Naughty list isn’t so bad….*grins*

2. We spend much of this novella attending Regency England Christmas celebrations…The mistletoe, the yule log, lots of mulled beverages and holly abound. Is there a reason why you were drawn to write a story set at Christmas time? and What are your favorite Christmas traditions? Pictures please, if appropriate. 

I love a good Christmas story. I’ve written a few in the past (contemporaries) and I can’t explain why, but when the idea came to me for Her Christmas Pleasure, it had to be set during Christmas. It might’ve helped that I started the novella right around Christmas last year and finished it in January.

There are still many Christmas traditions carried on today that were happening (and even established) during the Regency period – including mistletoe. I knew Damien and Celia had to kiss under the mistletoe – that’s how they came to me in the first place!

3. It’s easy to say that Damien and Celia receive the gift of Love this Christmas. What is the best gift you’ve found beneath the tree?

Years ago my husband went out with his friend and they bought last-minute gifts for the wives. I had no idea what he was up to but when I opened my gift Christmas morning, the first thing I thought was, “Why this?” It was an iPod. I believe this was in 2003 – we still had dial-up internet and let me tell you, downloading a song from iTunes was an impossibly long and trying process!

So it sat for a couple of months. We finally got rid of the dial-up, I started writing once more (it was something I’d always started and stopped since I was in my very early 20s) and I pulled out the iPod, making myself a playlist. It helped with the writing so much – one of the best gifts I’ve ever received (though that iPod died a few years ago, LOL)!

If we count gifts from when I was little, the Barbie Dream Townhouse. It had an elevator – it was AWESOME.

4. Bonus! (I’m much greedier than baby Jesus, lol) What can we expect from the next Merry Widow…Give us 3 hints…

Oooh, well I can tell you the title for the third Merry Widows novella is A Scandalous Affair. I cannot tell you the release date because I don’t know it, LOL. Here are a few hints though:

• The hero has an embarrassing impediment which makes him a bit shy (and gives him a bad reputation amongst society, those wretched, judgmental beasts!)
• The heroine is rather determined in her pursuit of the hero
• I love the heroine’s brother so much I think he deserves his own story
• There is a minor guest appearance by one of the other Merry Widows and her new husband.

And that’s all I’m telling you. *inserts evil laugh here*

Contest: I’ll give away a Kindle or Nook ebook gift of Her Christmas Pleasure to one lucky commenter!

This giveaway is now closed…Click Here to see the winner

Thanks Karen! How sweet is she spreading the Christmas Spirit via a giveaway…And very tempting with her teasers for Merry Widows #3. Can’t wait to pick it up!

Bio

Karen Erickson has always loved the written word. From being one of the best readers in her kindergarten class to penning romantic stories that never ended about her favorite band members (Duran Duran) in high school, she always wanted to write. It just took her a while to seriously pursue it.

With the birth of her third child came a realization – it’s one thing to talk about writing a book, another thing entirely to actually do it. First published in 2006, she’s gone on to write over 30 erotic and sensual romance titles for e-publishers including Samhain Publishing, Ellora’s Cave and Carina Press.

On a personal note she’s a native Californian who lives in the foothills below Yosemite with her husband and three children. Oh and the dog, the cats, the rooster and the chickens…

Where you can find Karen on the Web:

• Website: http://karenerickson.com
• Blog: http://karenerickson.blogspot.com
• Group Blog (The Smutketeers): http://smutketeers.com
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/karenericksonwritesromance
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/karenerickson

Thanks so much for having me, Sara! Happy Holidays everyone!

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Her Christmas Pleasure (The Merry Widows #2) by Karen Erickson

BookTalk

Mistletoe is a dangerous thing. That small ball of leaves can spring up out of nowhere and change the course of lives.

Lady Danvers and Damien Morton have been friends forever. Damien was the best friend of Lady Danver’s, Celia’s, husband. Since his death Damien has become an integral part of Celia’s life. He’s been a shoulder to cry on, a friend, and a father figure for Celia’s young son. Until now, Celia has managed to ignore the fact that Damien is head-over-heals in love with her. Sure, she’s noticed the long lingering stares, the warm touches, and the love blooming between her son and her friend. But, attraction is easy to ignore in the society of the Ton especially between a Lady and an untitled man.

Until that sneaky ball of greenery. This kiss underneath the mistletoe may very well bring two people together in the magic of the season.

Review

If you’re looking for the perfect way to pass an hour with a glass of wine this Holiday Season look no further. Her Christmas Pleasure is like a Christmas cookie, a little bon-bon, a piece of fudge. It’s short, sweet, and yummy…

I didn’t realize when I requested this book that it was a novella. I wasn’t sure how I felt about the length when I opened the ebook…

Short doesn’t usually mean good in the Romance genre…

It usually means underdeveloped characters I don’t connect to…

It means I feel gypped by a lack of fleshed out relationships and bedroom scenes that seem rushed and [pardon the pun] unfulfilling.

I could not have been more wrong in my prejudice of this book. I’ve waited a bit to write this review trying to figure out exactly how Erickson gave so much body to such a short book. Right from the start I felt involved in Damien and Celia’s lives. Probably because Erickson throws you right into the middle of things. The middle of a Christmas celebration, the middle of their relationship, and in the middle of Damien’s decision to stay by Celia’s side and fight for her affections…or run away to a new job and a new country. These characters have a history and you feel that connection and the tension right from the start.

By the time Damien and Celia make it to their first bedroom scene you’ll be thinking “What took you two so long?!” even though you’ll only be, like, 30 or so pages in! Erickson is just that good at setting her scenes and forming her characters. I was amazed to find that the novella was over. I think I kept clicking after the final page just hoping for a magical continuation of their story (hey, I’m sure some of Santa’s elves specialize in Romance novels…they’re the naughty ones 😉 Sorry couldn’t resist!)

Anyway, know that I wasn’t sad this book ended so quickly because the story wasn’t complete. Nope. Damien and Celia’s story comes to a satisfying conclusion [again, me and the puns today!]. I just wanted more because I loved the characters so much. I wanted to follow them into their happily ever after. I wanted more from their newly formed family.

Honestly, treat yourself to this little Christmas nugget. You’ll thank me for the hour you spent in the company of Her Christmas Pleasure…It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the season.

Rating: 5/5 Still in awe of so much love in such a short package

*Book received from Carina Press via NetGalley for review…Thanks!*

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A Winter Scandal (Legend of St. Dwynwen #1) by Candace Camp

BookTalk

Thea is officially a spinster. After a few seasons attempting to garner attention with youth and ribbons and no dowery to speak of Thea left the ballrooms of the country and settled into life as a Vicar’s sister. She spends her days writing her brother’s sermons and keeping her nose in a book. Many a fine hour is spent in quiet study of the latest tomes.

Gabriel is officially a rake. He’s spent his adulthood flitting from ballroom to ballroom managing to capture the heart of many a youthful debutante and the bedroom of many a widowed Lady. But with the purchase of a country estate Gabriel is ready for a bit of quiet amongst friends for the holiday season.

That is until Thea finds a baby in a manger…

A baby wearing Gabriel’s crest…

Convinced the child is Gabriel’s by-blow Thea storms in to confront the rake. But the child’s story won’t be dealt with so easily. As the mystery of the baby gets deeper and deeper. These two opposites will find that what they may really want this holiday season is love…

Review

“I know you’re not the sort to lose your head even over a man who looks like sin walking, which his lordship does”…”It’s your heart I’m worried about” (152)

This is such a Cinderella story. A woman transformed by finding love. When we meet Thea she’s a confirmed spinster. Completely entrenched in the boring life of a Vicar’s sister. It only takes one meeting from Gabriel to begin to crack away at that stodgy facade. Out come rosy cheeks, curls, and a desire to dress pretty again. It was fun to watch Gabriel’s kisses turn Thea from a caterpillar to a butterfly.

What I wasn’t as in love with in this book was the mystery plot line. I thought the mystery took a really long time to come to a head. For about 90% of the novel we have 0 clues. ZERO. I was slightly frustrated by this point. The love story progressed on a nice story-arc and those bedroom scenes were absolutly wonderful! But that pesky mystery [who the baby’s mother was and how he ended up abandoned in the church] kept popping up!

Granted trying to solve the mystery and taking care of baby Mathew was the entire reason Thea and Gabriel were forced to be together. I mean, Gabriel completely ignored Thea after a first kiss and a re-meet at a country ball. If fate hadn’t thrown a mysterious baby their way there would have been no hope for this couple falling in love.

So it’s a good thing baby Mathew was left in that manger. Because once Gabriel gives Thea a chance he discovers a smart, practical woman who is just dying to let her hair go wild and embrace her wanton ways. They have the best kissing scenes in this book! Right from the start they have sparks.

I think of all the Christmas-themed romances I’ve been devouring lately this has been the least “Christmas-y”. True, they find a baby in a manger and Thea is the Vicar’s sister…but other than these satellite references there is no real attachment to the holiday. This is not a book filled with yule-tide greetings and traditions. But it was a lovely winter Romance. Feel free to do this one before or after the holiday season. It’s a nice way to warm up a winter weekend.

3/5: Solid winter read

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Marian’s Christmas Wish by Carla Kelly

BookTalk

Marian is looking forward to having the perfect Christmas. It’s been a year since her father’s death and it’s about a month until the family is too destitute to maintain their current home. Marian figures it’s best to make the most of the present and squeeze every bit of Christmas Spirit out of the season.

That is until her brother comes home with two lords. One, a whale of a man to marry Marian’s sister (and save the family home) another,  handsome and young Lord Ingraham who seems to be hiding from his true desires.

Then Marian’s other brother will return home disgraced from University. Hijinks will abound as witty Marian attempts to save the family spirit…and force everyone to fulfill their Christmas wish…If only she knew that someone’s wish was for her heart…

Review

This is the sweetest Christmas Romance. It falls into a category of Romance classification called Traditional. An adult Romance read without any overt sex. it reads just like a trashy romance…without the trashy bits. I think the best way to show my love for this book is to breakdown all the bits that worked for me.

The Clean Romance. It’s not exactly a secret that I like my romances trashy. I love the buildup to a bedroom scene…extra points if it happens somewhere other than a bedroom, the garden perhaps? the stables? It’s all lovely in my book. Which is why I had a bit of trepidation in learning that this book was Traditional…and squeaky clean.

Uh oh, I was a bit nervous to leave the tried and true path of the trashy romance…

I should have worried not. This book was wonderful. The romance between Marian and Gil built quickly. There were plenty of sweet moments, and a few slightly sensual. It’s obvious Gil is a man who knows what he’s doing even if Marian is pure as snow. Watching him fall for such a naive girl was thrilling. As a reader you know what must be going through his head, you know exactly when Marian catches his eye and exactly when he falls in love…even if Marian is a little slower on the uptake.

Marian’s age. I’ve mentioned that Marian is a bit naive. She’s also a bit immature at the start of this book. I’ll even admit there were times when I was wincing at her reactions. You see, Gil, the very hunky spy, is about 13 years her senior. I’ll give you a moment to ‘ick’ before we put this all in the perspective of Regency England where poor Marian could have potentially married someone old enough to be her father…or grandfather.

So beyond the massive [by modern standards] age gap Marian’s youth served the story well. It forced the relationship to move a little slower. And it was fun watching Marian mature under Gil’s instruction and stolen kisses. You can see the potential in Marian from the beginning…But the woman you find at the end of the story is worthy of any full-blooded Regency Romance.

Marian’s Brain. Oh, my, does her intelligence get her in trouble! The last place an intelligent woman was desired was a Regency dining table. True, we’re reading a story about a man who falls for this witty woman, it’s what we love as a reader. But Kelly bars no punches when Marian speaks out of turn.

Most of the time Marian is right.

All of the time it amuses Gil and endears her to his love.

And Marian is still struck down every time. It’s fun to watch her speak her mind, score little points with the reader and with Gil. But Kelly never lets these slips of the tongue endear her to anyother character. And rightfully so. If we’re introducing the correct age gap between marriageable couples…we’re going to keep the society rules too. I love an author who sticks to her guns and who gives me a smart character to boot.

Gil aka Lord Ingraham. He’s hunky, he’s mysterious, he’s sweet, he’s amusing, and he’s a spy. I. Love. This. Man. How he plays puppet master behind the scenes for so much of the book. It was so much fun to watch his plans come to fruition. Then, when Marion goes and saves him herself…*sigh*…so wonderful to see the two of them support each other. Because, as much as Marian obviously needs a bit of help growing into a woman…Gil needs as much help rectifying the choices he’s made as an adult. Together their romance is oh, so, sweet.

Christmas. Is there anything better than a Regency England Christmas? I don’t think so. It’s the golden age of Christmas. Full of traditions like Mistletoe, the Yule Log, Christmas Pudding wishes, and Midnight Mass in the family church. Of all my Christmas reads this year I found this one to be the most festive. I felt such a part of the celebration. I could just feel the Christmas spirit pouring off the page. It made me want to read this one with a fresh snow-fall and a hot chocolate…and my mother’s Christmas tree…It’s ever so much more traditional than my own.

This tale really is a wonderful Christmas read. If you’re hankering for a new book this holiday season that will make you smile, laugh, and even bring a tear or two to your eyes. It’s the perfect soft romance for a snowy day.

Rating: 5/5 A Christmas romance to get you in the Christmas Spirit!

*Book received from Cedar Fort Books via NetGalley…Thanks!*

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Library Musings…Romance novels

The other day I was reading Smart Bitches, Trashy Books when I came across this post. It’s all about defending the genre of romance. I am, and always have been, a huge fan of trashy romances so I was very excited to see what these white knights had to say. And I was happy to see intelligent, academically backed logic explaining how the romance genre promoted girl-power and a general message of “life your life to the fullest!”

Seeing such praise makes me happy. You see, the romance genre played a huge part in my growth as a reader. They were some of the first adult books to really hook me. I’ve read Julie Garwood’s historical romances multiple times each. Loved. Them.

People always seem to be embarrassed to be seen reading books of this genre. Perhaps, because of their sometimes explicit artwork. I never thought to hide the covers. I can honestly say, I didn’t know to feel shamed by them. I think the two main reasons for this were:

1. Fabio didn’t usually appear on my covers. I don’t know if this was chance or choice…But while I do enjoy beautiful cover art, rarely does it factor into my choice of book. I’m blinded by things like a good summary. Yes, I know I’m a weirdo.
2. My family doesn’t have any closet romance readers. The only two reactions I’ve ever received from family members when it comes to my reading are:
1. Put down the book! Pay attention to your [family, friend, dog, mother, food, etc]
2. A generic Wow, we’re so [proud, surprised, amazed, happy, etc] that you love reading so much.

No one ever told me it was wrong to read these books. So I did. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to read a happy book were people save the day and fall in love. Where a smart woman is appreciated and loved not just in spite of her quirks but because of them…

Earlier this year my reading BFF RachelKiwi came to me in book withdrawal. She wanted another Outlander, another Bronze Horseman, another Tea Rose. So I asked her…

“What do you love about those books”

She replied “I like a bad boy to fall in love and become reformed by a woman; I love the romance”

I informed her that what she was craving was basically the plot of every romance novel ever written.

But, *gasp* RachelKiwi didn’t read Those kinds of books. At least she didn’t until I force lent her some from my Nook.

She Tried

She Loved

While I think she’d admit that the romance genre still isn’t her favorite. She’d def. go so far as to say that they were better than she had been expecting, and that she very much enjoyed them in small dosages.

She’s nothing if not a woman who loves Love…

Which brings me to this awesome video by Maya Rodale. It’s the book trailer for her book:

Dangerous Books for Girls:

The Bad Reputation of Romance Novels, Explained.

I wish I was as smart as this woman. She’s not only a published romance author herself, she has a new book based on research from her Master’s thesis. It’s all about the history of the romance novel and the history of women as authors and readers. The video alone makes me want to go back to school and study such things myself…Anyone got a couple grand lying around I could borrow? Wanna further my education? Give me a winning lotto ticket?

As it is, my mind is abuzz with ways to use this video with my students. [If only it didn’t say ‘orgasm’ it would be a lot easier to use with high school students, lol] Just watching it makes me want to debate literature and the role of women. It makes me want to give a big Fist Pump to the romance genre and how I love it so.

If you’re still with me…here’s the video…comment or tweet to join the discussion. What do YOU think of the Romance Genre…

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Until There Was You by Kristan Higgins

BookTalk

Posey Osterhagen is not a hottie. She’s about 107 pounds soaking wet, with a cow-lick that refuses to be tamed, and a complete inability to dress like a girl. This is a slight improvement over her high school self. Now, no need to feel sorry for Posey. She’s a completely happy, business-owning, big dog loving woman who has had a wonderful childhood and is still surrounded by a loving family and group of friends.

Really, the only thing she’s ever pined for was Liam Murphy…and maybe, occasionally boobs, lol.

But, *Sigh* Liam…A man built like God’s Gift to women. In high school he arrived fresh out of juvie as a motorcycle riding, leather jacket wearing, player. Who’s bad boy traits were revered by young Posey. And to everyone’s surprise he was tamed…by Emma Tate.

Now years later Liam is back in town. A widower with a 14-year-old daughter, Liam has moved to be closer to his wife’s parents. What he failed to remember was his life before his wife…All those girls he loved and left are now the women of the town, their husbands none too happy to see the still sinfully hot Liam back in town. Posey thought she had convinced herself she was over her first crush…

Both are about to find that while High School never dies…sometimes you just need a fresh perspective to find love…

Review

I loved this book so much I could eat it up…again and again.

It was addictive.

One of those girly-chick-lit-trashy-romance types that get me hooked…a gateway drug if you will. It’s like ignoring McDonald’s double quarter pounder for six months, giving in, then craving that damn burger for weeks afterward! The kicker being that while McDonald’s is staring at me from every corner…I’m probably gonna have to wait at least a year for Higgins’s next book! Boo.

True, I could pick up an oldie of hers…but I have to say, this author has gotten better with time. Her latest two books were grand slams for me, while reaching back into her older titles I sometimes feel like something is missing. Like settling for Burger King instead of Mickey-D’s (hmm…craving much? Note: I’m writing this around lunch-time…please forgive the fast food references, lol)

But back to the story. It’s a slow romance, and while Posey is cute, she isn’t a hottie. And Liam doesn’t immediately see her as some beauty. This is a good thing! Instead, he likes her the way she is but the attraction isn’t instant. And nobody ever pretends that it is. Liam falls in love with Posey as a person rather than through lust first. What I loved so much was that the characters were different…not really quirky-different just very real.

In her letter to the reader Higgins notes that this was one of the first times she really gave the man a fleshed out point of view. In this romance we learn (and see) as much of Liam’s past and present feelings as we do Posey’s. Which is necessary because he was part of a pretty big life altering incident in Posey’s past. Liam was her first love crush and also part of a very “Carrie-like” prom scenario. Luckily, one that Posey chooses to see as a definitive mark of character in her background rather than something she carries a grudge for over the years.

I saw the big ending surprise coming…but not that last gift from Liam, and not the third act twist with the old lady. Look for all of Higgin’s hallmarks, the animal love, the fun and unusual jobs, the dysfunctional family love, friendship with the elderly, and a girl who is realistically enjoyable.

In the end I can’t completely put a finger on why I loved this Higgins book head and shoulders above others. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and I couldn’t put it down. Pick this one up for a fun weekend read. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: 5/5 I want more Higgins right now!!! 

*Book received for review from Harlequin via NetGalley…Thanks!*

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The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley

BookTalk

Carrie McClelland is a bestselling author of historical fiction. She’s made enough off her writing to travel the world, living in the locations where her books are set. Carrie begins her journey at a French Castle. She’s decided to track Nathaniel Hooke, an Irishman deeply involved in the failed Scottish uprising of 1708. But, Carrie is finding that in addition to a mostly forgotten plan to reinstate the Scottish King Mr. Hooke is giving her very dry writing material.

What Carrie needs is a change of scene…Drawn to Slains Castle, ruins of a stronghold perilously close to the sea, Carrie begins to feel the whispers of a story. Her tale changes shape. Carrie is being led not by Nathaniel Hooke but instead by a young woman. Carrie believes she names this girl after her own ancestor Sophia Paterson for sentimental reasons. But as Carrie’s Scottish nights grow thick with the voices of her characters, her writing takes on a life of its own. And Carrie begins to have the sneaking suspicious that it is not her imagination creating the heart-breaking love…Instead it looks as though Carrie is remembering ghosts of her past…

Review

This book came with some mixed reviews. Some people were 5/5 star in love with the book…others hung-up on an ending plot choice that not only didn’t ring true, it also incited anger and fury amongst readers.

I’ll admit I fall into the middle of this group. If you’d like a *Spoiler* as to the plot choice (or you’d just really like to see myself and RachelKiwi debate the point) check out the Book Club of Two breakdown tomorrow.

So without mention of the *Spoiler* I’ll let you know what I thought of the book as a whole. It’s why your reading this right? Just checking, lol…

Know that the book is extremely addictive. Told in alternating chapters of modern-day Carrie, the woman writing the historical fiction novel, and Sophia, Carrie’s main character and ancestor. While Carrie has action enough on both the paranormal and romantic front it is Sophia’s love-story that sings.

You see, the premise of this tale is that Carrie has genetic memory of Sophia’s life. It’s rationalized much in the same way that we explain how our baby has the exact same smile or mannerism as our dead grandfather. That somewhere in our strands of DNA in addition to deciding the color of our eyes and the size of our feet we also inherit physical movements and skills from past generations. While this theory is completely legit Kearsley stretches science to include actual memories of the past. Like…remembering an entire year of another persons life.

Kearsley weaves past and present together fluidly. Carrie’s own life begins to reflect Sophia’s past. In the beginning this is what Carrie blames her story on. Later it simply becomes a nice plot point. I will note that Carrie’s modern romance didn’t have the spark that Sophia’s did. I think had more time been given to the modern couple. Or had Stuie been cut from the story. Carrie and Graham’s romance would have been fleshed out a bit better. This is sad, not because this tale lacks love…nope, Sophia provides that in spades…more so because I liked Carrie and Graham and would have enjoyed a bit more time with them as full characters and not as a mode to view Sophia’s story.

Another problem some had with the text was its historical component. Be Warned my bookish friends…Kearsley knows her history, and doesn’t deviate for a minute. I think this also muddied up the plot a bit. It was a lot to wade through at times, and some characters/schemes could have been cut altogether. But still, I maintain the camp of a happy historical reader. I have a lot of admiration for Kearsley’s ability to stick so stringently to fact and make history work for her. Just always sad to watch the Scottish uprisings…You know they all end poorly…and yet those strong Scottish men are always so sexy and stalwart. I just wish they would have caught a break every now and then.

Know that this is a great read. Plot *Spoiler* or not, it’s a well told tale that is both addictive and different.

Rating: 4/5 Perfect for a snowy winter’s day…remember the warm coffee and a box of tissues!

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Winter’s Passage (Iron Fey #1.5) by Julie Kagawa

The final book in Julie Kagawa’s Iron Fey Series comes out Tuesday October, 25th. Each week until the release date I’ll Book Talk and Review a book in the series…including those novellas!

I’ve become addicted to the series, so whether this is your first time with the books or you’re eagerly awaiting The Iron Knight’s debut a little trip to the Nevernever is good for everyone!

Without further Ado…Winter’s Passage

BookTalk

“My name is Meghan Chase.

If there are three things I’ve learned in my time among the fey, they are this: don’t eat anything you’re offered in Faeryland, Don’t go swimming in quiet little ponds and never, ever, make a bargain with anyone.”

Meghan Chase is following the mysterious Winter Prince Ash through a passage to the Winter Kingdom. She made a contract with this man, a man who’s cold exterior warms her in ways that could be fatal to a Summer Princess. Their attraction could mean death for both of these royals. While not yet a full-blown romance their feelings for one another will only be encouraged by this journey…While the relationship seems to be headed in a hopeless direction, the couple won’t have to worry about its repercussions if The Hunter catches them first…

Review

I liked this novella. I think I liked it more than Kagawa’s first book in the series The Iron King. I was pared down. Far simpler in its fairy tale scope than the first. It could be that I was already familiar with the characters and their story plots. But I liked that the hunter was our main focus and that places and creatures we’d already met were glossed over. I wasn’t overwhelmed with creature and place descriptions like I had been in the novel.

What I liked about this little teaser of a story was it made me realize some mad respect for Kagawa’s knowledge of fairy tale history. I took a few classes in college on fairy tales and what I’ve always loved about this type of literature is its history. How cultures spread far and wide still came up with so many similar tales and characters. When the big bad wolf says

““I am Wolf. I am older than you, older than Mab, older than the most ancient faery to walk this realm. I was in stories long before the humans knew my name, and even then they feared me.”…”I am the wolf at the door, the creature that stalked the girl in the red hood to grandma’s house. I am the wolf who becomes a man, and the man who is a beast inside. My stories outnumber all the tales ever told,…”” (34, ePub ed.)

I was so inspired by this quote. It is amazing to think of all the tales we grew up with…how far back they truly reach. I think that in this tale of passage to the Winter realm of the Unseelie I truly began to respect the spectrum of lore Kagawa is honoring. And the tale does just what it’s supposed to. It whet my appetite for the next book in this series and gave me a view of a legendary character that does deserve some respect.

Rating: 7.5/10

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