What can you say about an author name......Lora Leigh

A word of advice, these books are rated at "Adult Contemporary".

Other than her books are grrrrreat!! Her style is very (and I mean very) original. The characters are loveable (would make great pets). If there's one thing I can say about Lora Leigh is...........she's in a class of her own! For example.....The series of books she’s best known for, her "BREED" series. The story is about how this whole thing got started. Weird scientific experiments to create the next generations of soldiers/weapon (all in one) have gone amok. Man and beast DNA all mixed up to create a new species. To be use and discarded after the war. To be considered as a non human and to be treated worse than the wild animals they were supposed to turn out to be..............Who said that animals don't have feelings. Screw them after you read these books.

"TEMPTING THE BEAST" ...... The main characters consists of Merinus Tyler,and (of course) our hero Callan Lyons. As to how to explain the story........mmmmmmm.............let's see............Hero is half man half beast, created for the sole purpose of a weapon of mass destruction and later terminated after the mission has been accomplished. A small group of these so called “Breeds” manage to escape and established a new race of their own. Our heroine is a reporter who is interested in an expose about the new "Breed" people. What they didn't know was that 'NATURE' can never be contained (these wise words were from “Jurassic Park” part 1). But the scientists have got it wrong. Animals do have feelings. And emotion. And most surprising of all………LOVE. Even after all the hell they went through it is surprising that they were still able to place their trust in people. Ahh…I see. You’d like to know more……..go visit her website at www.loraleigh.com Oh, some of her old books from this series are constantly on sale in ebay. If you feel the hunger (like I did) go buy it!

"The Man Within" ebook cover

"The Man Within" paperback cover.........

I'd rather prefer the ebook cover as it's sizzling hot (as in ow, ow.....burning hot) and the picture is just how it was describe in the book. This time, the story revolves around Roni and Taber. Our hero and heroine who have know each other for a long time. However, the last time they met, Taber gave Roni something to remember him by. But Roni, being Roni, didn't know what it was. Until now, Taber has come to reclaim what's his. Roni. She has always been his since she was just a little girl, and she will now be his, forever. As you read along you will feel the conflict that the characters have against each other. The thing that really gets you is that their 'PRIDE' gets in the way. Comparing to the first book of this series, you'll love the characters more as you'll feel the connection between them and you. Between books 2 and 3 just happened to be a surprise. We've all been reading about cats.....well.....now introducing......dogs, actually it's a Wolf Breed.

Meet "Elizabeth's Wolf". The main characters are Dash and Elizabeth. I thought I loved Taber and Roni, but this one had me crying since I started reading the excerpt. I knew I had to get this book, come hell or high water. And I did. And I love reading every minute of it. The surprise is not Dash or Elizabeth.....ahh, if I tell you, it wouldn't be a surprise would it? The story is lovely the flow is great and most of all, the story is touching. Okay, enough already.....go get your own book to read.

Now book 3 is very difficult to read. As you've started out from book1 and 2, don't even try to measure it with Elizabeth's Wolf. Not even close. But by now, you should now understand what is going on and what the characters have been through in "Kiss of Heat".

The Council's scientist have done to them in the labs. Meet two lovers Kane, he's Merinus brother and Sherra, she's Callan's sister and a member of the "Pride", who were torn apart by the Council's lies and deceit. For so many years this two lovers have been apart through death the death of their child. Until they met again. This time Kane will do all he can to keep Sherra with him. Even if he has to fight her to the death. Whether it's his or hers, time can only tell. This story is quite tough to swallow. Since you do have to read what Merinus and Kane had gone through. Even till this date, I still can't go in to details of it as I (since I do feel like I know them like family) didn't want to know the extent of the tortures that they both went through. It was not a baptise in fire.....trust me on that.

**end of part 1 **

Congratulations to Cynthia Eden

Hooray!!! Hooray!!

I wrote about Cynthia Eden and I got a comment from her. I am also delighted to inform all of (any) you the following news:

Cynthia Eden said...
Hi, Toni!
First, thanks so much for reading my stories--and writing up your thoughts on them. :-)
I think you'll be glad to know (well, I hope you will!) that I'll be releasing 6 full length novels with Kensington over the next 2 1/2-3 years. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy writing novellas, but I've been itching to get my chance at full length tales. Hotter After Midnight (the one you mentioned) is my first full-length for them, and my second "Midnight" book (we're calling them the Midnight Series), will be out in December (Midnight Sins). I'll have at least two more novels released the next year (maybe 3--a girl can hope, right?). I do hope you enjoy my full-length work--keep me posted! And, thank you, again.
April 16, 2008 12:53 PM

I hope you can see why it is a cause to celebrate as the comment I have posted about her writing should have been a full lenght novel and not just an anthology. Things are looking good, very, very good for her and her fans. Below is what was mentioned on her website:

Kensington…

Posted in Latest News on April 7th, 2008 by Cynthia Eden
I am very, very happy to report that Kensington has offered me another three-book contract–I’ll be writing more of my paranormals for them. Yay!!!! This means I get to dig in and become very busy on my WIP, one tentatively titled BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND MIDNIGHT. For those out there who’ve gotten a sneak peek at HOTTER AFTER MIDNIGHT, my WIP is about Niol.
Did I mention this offer has made me extremely happy?

What else is there left but just to pop the bottle of champagne. But for this, I would also have to congratulate Kensignton Publishing for their wonderful insight in to this author's future. Trust me, you'll never be disappointed about Cynthia. You can also look in to more authors under Kensington at www.kensingotnbooks.com .

And last but not least.........Cynthia.........Honey, you just made my day!!!

This one's for you!

Toni

Barbara Pierce "Naughty By Nature" Book 3 of the Carlisle Series

What can I say about this book? One thing's for sure, the love scene was hilarious!!! No, I am not joking. Go and look it up your self. Barbara knows that I did not write to ridicule her writing, but I just wanted to let you know what to expect from this book. This time, the story is about our heroine Miss. Patience Rose Farnaly and our hero Fowler Knowden, the Earl of Ramscar I'm gonna split it in to 4 parts, okay?

Part 1 - You wouldn't like how our heroine got her introduction to her acting carrier and as a companion to Ram's sister. But what the heck! The story will have to start out somewhere, right?

Part 2 - This is where things start to get interesting. Tension begins to build up as they avoid an inevitable relationship that is about to happened.

Part 3 - Oh yeah! Now things are stirring up and you can cut the tension with a knife. But most of all........YUM!!

And last but not least, part 4 - I will try to put it as gently as I can............I don't get it?!?! Yes, how she was taken, found and retrieve. Duh?!?! Okay, the bad guy got what they deserved. BUT!!! It was all over in a blink of an eye. And her family?!?! What exactly happened to them? Got back together? Never spoken to each other? Exposed for what a fraud they are? What? What? What?

If you could have disregard what I have mentioned above then you'd probably enjoy reading it. I (on the other hand) feel that if a little bit more detail was put in to this then the story would have been smooth like silk. As it is, I felt that there were (very, very small) bumps here and there all through out the part since Patience met and was recognized by her mother. Phoo-phoo!!! or as how we do it here.........Aaarrrrgggghhhhh!!!! I have been very irritated by this ending!

Listen, it is not as if I am saying that I don't like her books, I do. It's just that if there are improvements made here and there, the story would be a whole lot better. Yes!! I would still continue to buy her books. I mean that even the greatest writers sometimes writes things we don't always like, right? Same here. She would (I think) probably like our feed back on the matter. What better way to do so. And, yes!! I will read book 4 of the Carlisle series "Scandalous by Night" as I would any other books written by her.

Rate this book:
A. Electrifying?
B. Agitating?
C. Arousing?
D. Annoying?

E. Addicting?
and last but not least F. All of the above? You tell me! If you don't count for my own personal point of view, then...hell, maybe you'll like it more than me.

Happy reading,

Toni

Barbara Pierce "Sinful Between The Sheets" Book 2 of the Carlisle series.

How do I rate thee?

A. Delectable?

B. Delicious?

C. Delightful?

D. Dreamy?

E. Luscious?

Or F. All of the above?

To find out, you've got to read it yourself. I mean it! I do not have the correct words to describe this book. I am serious!! It's so delicious that I couldn't put the book down. Even as I am blogging here I still have the book in my backpack. What I would like to know is what was Barbara eating when she was writing this book?!?! It seems that this was even better (no....I'd say a whole lot), hotter, steamier than "Wicked Under The Covers". The plot is one I have not seen for a long time. Barbara made good use of the characters by tying then all together in a way that's unimaginable. Trust me, I did not see this coming at all. And if you ask how "Sinful" this books is..........let's just say that when I go to work the arrival flight, I had to bring it just in case I have spare time. If you ask how many times I've got through this book? Is about the same amount of time I spend it on NJ's "To Pleasure A Lady". Both books are mmmm, mmmm, gooood!!! I need more time to find fault to this book, but at the present, I still can't find any. And that's not fair. No you all know that there are others in this series, right? But this one.............this is one of those that you'd wish for to be in hardcover and to collect. Don't know if there are any. I'm still looking through the Internet if any is available.

Oh, yes!! Am so happy about this. As you all know, I am not from a native English speaking country. So.......yes, I had trouble pronouncing the hero's name Fayne Carlisle. It's the first name that I'm having trouble with. Just like his sister before this book too. **SIGHING long and hard**!! It's either I need to learn how to use the dictionary or I need help with pronunciations. That's the only thing bad I could think of for this book. Thank the Lord that the name in book 3 is not this difficult!!! I've already started on it and will be writing about it very soon. Or as soon as I can let go of book 2. As for book 4.........I can only hope it will follow in it's predecessors footsteps. Anyway, I'm going back to read it again. I do so love it.

Happy reading!
Toni

p.s. I think I just thought of a new rating system for Barbara's books. What do you think? Inspiring enough to entice others to read?

The name is Cynthia..........Cynthia Eden

Her books are not for the young and the fainthearted. You could say it’s a collection of erotic short stories. You can get to know her from Red Sage publishing’s “Secrets”

volume 15 "Bite of the Wolf"

volume 16 "The Wolf's Mate"

and volumes 21 "The Caged Wolf"

Eh-em, sorry. Got carried away…At the present, I’m almost finish with her other short in

volume 16 "Never Enough"

"A Red Hot New Year"

and (again) loving it. Actually, there hasn’t been a story by her that I do not love and enjoy. I've seen on her website that her stand alone new novel

"Hotter After Midnight"

which will be out this April 29th. I can hardly wait for it. A stand alone about (what else, of course) a good looking, mouth watering and a terrific loving werewolf. Ahhhh, I can just imagine what he’d look like. All of her alpha dogs (sorry) werewolves are just to die for. I can only wish they’re walking the streets amongst us. As not only would they make great pets, they also love you back more than the normal man should. I just wish that (here we go) she'd write more novels (not that I've read one yet). It's just too bad that a skilled writer such as her is writing a lot of short stories. With her talent to be able to cast a spell to enchant all the readers to be such loyal followers, she should (by now) obtain a reputation equal to those such as: Lora Leigh, Anya Bast and Sylvia Day. I can’t say much about her other books, as I have not had the chance to read them yet. But I do have great expectations about her soon to be out book. If she can write them this good in shorts, she would be terrific in a novel. Her style is unique and of her own. I mean I do read paranormal and sci-fi romance/erotic, although not much but I think I am reading one of their most talented writers. Take Lora Leigh for instance. Who do you think can write better paranormal and sci-fi romance/erotic better than her? For me, I feel that she’s the reigning queen of sci-fi and paranormal romance/erotic writer. Well, maybe another, Christine Feehan? But I think that I can say (for the people with my taste only) you will love each and every one of her characters and would love to get to know them more and more. As each of her short is written and each time you do read them, you will find that you get more and more frustrated. As the story is too short to really (as the saying goes) sink your teeth in to, or that the characters needs to explain how they got in to that precarious incident or situation. Or what so ever!! So, I wrote to her, but I never did ask her this? Should I email to her again and ask about this? Or should I let her find out what I’m really fussing about here? …………what do you think? Let me know, will ya?

Happy reading,
Toni

Barbara Pierce "Wicked Under The Covers" Book 1 of the Carlisle Series.

4, 3, 2, 1...........Here we go.........The cover is absolutely too hot to handle. I mean WOW!! And by the way, it not only looks good, the book itself is terrific. Frankly speaking, I have not had a good read like this for a long, long time. The characters and the story are…….mmmmm……how can I describe them? Let’s see…….

A: Excellent?

B: Impressive?

C: Unforgettable?

D: Terrific?

E: Remarkable?

Or F: All of the above?

The answer is F. Yes, I have not seen the likes of this kind of writing, character and story that is so compelling since I have discovered Nicole Jordan. You can describe her writing to the early works of Catherine Coulter’s ‘Historical Series’. My best comparison is to the “Night or Magic Trilogies”. At a glance, the book is not much and the excerpt is so, so. Nothing really catches your eyes like other authors who make their excerpts so good but the book itself so sucks! Once you start to read Barbara Pierce, you will feel you are compelled to finish it, unable to put it down, etc, etc. No, I am not joking! I actually finish all three of her books in a record time (well, it really wasn’t that fast) but still not as fast as I would have liked as I had to sort through another set of books by Nicole Jordan (please see to my previously mentioned “Courtship Wars” series).

It is very strange that you can rarely come across an author like this. You get so involved with the story and the characters that you feel like you’re sitting right next to them when the incident is taking place. You are actually there watching the story unfold. You get to know the characters on a personal level that when the sequel comes out you still look around to see how the characters of the previous stories are doing? Well ladies, this is how I feel about Nicole Jordan and now I am feeling it with Barbara Pierce. I mean, Lady Fayre Carlisle (I still can’t pronounce her first name) and Maccus Brawley is such a flawlessly suited couple that I was thinking to myself that the story was just too short. When have I last felt like this (here we go again), it was when I was last reading NJ’s latest series. Okay, okay! Enough already with the comparisons between these two authors, but what else can I do?!?! I mean I can’t find anymore historical authors that can (literally) knock me off my feet just be reading the first chapter, right? But these two authors can, and I love them for it. You also get to meet the secondary set of characters who you feel might be in her next book. Well, I didn’t know but I could guess. And I was wrong, so damn wrong. Anyhow, I did not put the book down until I finished the last letter (please do not count the excerpt of her next book too) and then I let out a long, loud sigh. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, yes! Now, that’s what I call….good and enjoyable reading. Oh, I do have to thank Barbara as she has an excellent glossary (for more information, please look it up in her website at www.barbarapierce.com/Glossary.aspx ) for the words I have (until now) not found in the normal standard (and online) dictionary. For historical romance readers, you (many but not all) must know that some words are difficult to understand. Especially for those who have a hard time understanding (old) English. This glossary help expanded my understanding of the language so much that I copied it down and glued it to my small notebook (not the computer notebook but a real paper notebook). The one I kept when I run in to a word I do not understand. You get what I mean, right? I mean that some of you (English speaking natives an all) might not understand all of what is written down, right? Oh, to hell with me if I’m wrong. But I know that it must be (partially) true. As you can see from my blogs, how bad my English (spelling wise/grammar wise) is. Also, Barbara has an excellent link to help with (almost) all what you might need (for historical references), in terms of books/authors. I know where you're heading, so don’t go there! Here, this is the place for book lovers (like me).


To continue with the titled subject.........."Wicked Under The Covers" is another book that I would highly recommend to any and all historical romance lovers. This author is one you could not pass up. I mean, recently, I just gave up on a couple of pros....such as

.Julie Garwood: Her latest historical will be my last.

Catherine Coulter: I will continue with her contemporary romance only, historical is a no, no!

Let me see……who else…….Amanda Quick, Dorothy Garlock and Shannon Drake: All three of them are no longer on my list.

Virginia Henley: The changes are there, but I can’t put my fingers on it yet. So Until I can figure it out, she’s on my pending list. I’m wondering off again, aren’t I?

Back to the book……It’s a very good book and definitely a page turner. However, I do not suggest for those who loves historical to get your hands on them in the morning before going to work. As it caused me to get to the office almost half an hour late as I got so carried away reading it I forgot the time and left the house a lot later than expected. I feel that this is a book you will thoroughly enjoy. The author has put a lot of work in to it and it shows…..(don’t get carried away now). Wait till I tell you about her second book……..


Enjoy reading!
Toni

p.s. It’s just too bad that the villains in this book get their comeuppance a lot softer than they should. I mean after what they did to our main character, they should have been a harsher punishment. Especially something that will ban them socially forever and so on. Just read the book and you’ll know what I mean.

Finally...........Nicole Jordan's book 3 of "THE COURTSHIP WARS" series.

Yes, folks…….it’s finally here. The last book (maybe) of The “Courtship Wars” Series, “To Seduce A Bride”.



That’s right; I’ve finally found time to read it. Okay, this is what I feel about the book. I loved book 1, adored book 2 and was dying to read book 3……and the outcome is ………drum rolls, if you please……..The more you read this series, the more you get to know the Loring sisters and (might be) tempted to feel about marriage as they do. Well, maybe not like them but close enough. This is the 3rd installment to the “Courtship Wars” series……..We do not know yet if it would be the last of the series or not, but if we all send NJ a lot of email asking her to write more, maybe she will. After all, we are her fans and she will at least listen to us, right?

Lilian Loring, the last of the Loring sisters is about to meet her fate. He comes under the name and title of Heath Griffin, the Marquess of Claybourne. Even tough he is considered to be a charismatic rogue has never had a woman discourage his advances. But he has never met anyone like Lily. For the first time, this will be the battle of not only wits and willpower but of strength and determination of each striving to reach for their individual goals. The end result is spellbinding. Another one of NJ’s books you just can’t put down till the last sentence, the last phrase and the last word is read.

However (o-oh) the book’s ending should have been a lot better. A bit more detailed description regarding to their plans, future and so on. Comparing this book to her past two ones, I’d give this an A- while book 1 and 2’s got A+. It just didn’t click for me, this last book. Something or some ingredient was missing which I can’t put my fingers on. I’ll reread it all again and be back to post it here.

Be back again in a few days. Happy reading!

Toni

I found a new author for historical romance lovers.

And her name is..........Barbara Pierce. You can look her up at www.barbarapierce.com. To all historical romance lovers out there, listen up!!! Her "Carlisle Series" are to die for. Well......I must say, I really can't take all the credits.......okay, okay....this is what really happened. As I was in my favorite bookstore, and was getting fed up with why Lora Leigh’s new books is not in stores yet. As I was gearing up to ring the neck of the sales person, my friend turned to leaf through the shelf. There she found a scandalous cover…..she called me and showed me the book. I didn’t think much of it then. But what the 2nd book did was knocked me out!!! The cover was hot......sizzling hot!! So hot I couldn't put it down after I got it in my hands kinda hot! It was book 1 and 2 from the “Carlisle Series”. Book 1 "Wicked Under the Covers", and book 2 "Sinful Between The Sheets". Lucky me that I found the covers to be kind of interesting (yeah! Like, WOW man!!), and decided to read the back of the book. I remember thinking to myself “So, it’s another historical. Would there be more disappointment for me? How many times have I tried to branch out and never made it to the first quarter of the book? And in the famous words of Samuel L. Jackson’s famous words from ‘SWAT’, “What the hell….” I bought it and had the plastic covers done for them. (Again) I was thinking, “Dear God, help me get some good reading done. Else this ride is gonna be a long way home for me.” I never thought that for a new writer (comparing her to CC/JD or even JG, she quite new), she good! Damn good, I tell you!! The story was original (done a lot of comparison, trust me), character wise too. And I thought that I only had Nicole Jordan left to read on this subject. Okay, before you throw rocks at me…..I’ve given up Virginia Henley **ducking flying missiles**. HEY!!! Don’t take it personally, oooi!!! Listen up. She is giving me the run around; therefore I get seasick from reading too many characters involved with each other and so on. So, I’ve decided to take the easy way out. Look for a new author. And found one. You will not be disappointed in her style, originality (mentioned that), characters (mentioned that, too). All in all, she writes a damn good book.

Now, how do I summarize her works for you? Well, I can only do it for this series. As currently, I am (not yet) on the hunt for her previously writings. Why....do you ask? It was because of a (couple) of bids for a (couple) set of books by Christine Feehan (hardcovers) which I paid my ass off for on ebay. Please, don't forget....the exchange rate for the US dollars here is USD$1 = THB32. I spend more than USD$200 for them, maxed out my credit and therefore, is lying low (well, not that low) and will not be looking in on ebay anytime in the near future. So, that leaves me with her 3 previous books. Oh, yeah! I forgot to mentioned to you that I also got the latest one....."Naughty by Nature". **growling** It's just so damn pitiful that it had to be my first day on the shift. I have a 5 day shift and my off days are Thursday and Friday. This sucks, from tomorrow onwards I get the 5am shift and have to get up at 2am. That means I need to sleep on the bus. So, I will have less reading time. I will need more time as Barbara uses difficult to pronounce name (not for you, I mean for me as I am not a native English speaker). Thanks to her website I did find some helpful meaning so some of the words I never did find in my dictionary. Now, if only I can get my hands on most of the names, words and places. Oh, oh!! Especially the names...I am having a hell of a time pronouncing them. And I don't even think I got them right yet. Well, never mind my ranting. Where am I, oh yeah! Summarized!! Sorry, I forgot myself. After I finished all 3 books, not counting the next one will be out in July "Scandalous Night", I'll let you know as soon
as possible (or in my line of work ASAP).

Be back to post later and updating you on Barabara Pierce. For now.........it's goodbye!


Happy reading,
Toni

And her name is..........MaryJanice Davidson.

What can I say…………she’s good. I’ve never read a paranormal comedy that I want to follow up like this. Let me tell you how this all got started. I found a book by Red Sage publishing that’s titled “Secrets” Actually, I was looking for an anthology by another author and found MaryJanice accidentally. In this book (vol#6)

was a short story by her titled “Love’s Prisoner”. The story is about a hot looking bunch of werewolves. Consisting of their leader Michael Windham and his clan made up of both male and female. The others can be found in her other stories (vol#8

and

much,
much
more). Michael was unfortunate enough to have met his mate Jeannie Lawrence. I can only say one thing; it’s hilarious to a tee!! But for all MaryJanice’s books is that they should all come with a warning. It should not be read in a public place! Unless you don’t mind strangers looking at you like you’re crazy or something for laughing out loud. Never have hot or too cold beverages to drink with the reading of this book, as you could get in to serious trouble. Her werewolves stories are also (or not) connected to her other stories (have not read them yet) about a group of vampires. Yes, vampires and their leading lady who has serious issues about her shoes.

If you like paranormal, cuddly dogs….oops, sorry I mean wolves and good looking guys then you’ve come to the right place. Trust me, this is the one to read!

Happy reading!

Toni

Farewell to Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - The Queen of Romance.

It is with great sadness that I learn of her passing away. For sometime now, I have known that she has passed away due to long illness. It was very tragic, especially for those writers who are so gifted and mostly, her loyal fan (which I am also). Let me tell you how I knew about her…

Once upon a time, there was a young girl. She was and is still tomboy. She didn’t have many friends, because her first love was literature and sport. She would spend any free time either in the library reading Greek Mythology, old English literature and dream about the gods and goddesses or just practicing her volleyball skills in the gym. Until one day, she passed by the rental bookstore to drop of a book her mother rented. She came across a book written by an author in her local language. The cover did not catch her eye, but the store owner told her it was the hottest item in print and asks if she would be interested in it? The girl wanted to know what the book was about. The store owner told her it was a romance novel. The girl replied “yuck! I don’t read soppy novels” but she did glanced through it and found it to be interesting. So, she rented the book and took it home. That……was how I got started reading romance. Later, the book was made in to a movie and the critics called it a milestone step for local writers to be able to create such fine works. At that time, no one knew that the book, story, characters and all was a translated version of the original by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss titled “SHANNA”. From there, she started to read more and more romance. Not knowing that many of them were in fact, unauthorized translated versions. Until, one day, by coincidence, she found a book in English with the same cover as the book she had previously read. After picking it up and leafing through it, she found out the truth. And from that day on, she no longer read books in her own language; instead she started to buy them in English. That started a new love affair for her, romance novels and her desire to collect as many books as she can. Even up till now, she still have those books that she first bought when she was so very, very young. Now days, she doesn’t only dream of collecting books written by her favorite authors. But she started a new dream, to write like them……sometimes, she even tries to write reviews for her favorite books. She still have a long way to go (if she still wants to get there). Here are the listings from most beloved to

My favorite book for KEW always and will be “SHANNA”. I mean, WOW, if I can find a guy like this at the gallows; I wouldn’t hesitate to do so. The story is about (of course) Mistress Shanna, who was forced to marry. She can marry anyone as long as it’s a name with some recognition and acceptance. Else, her father will make his own arrangements. She ends up finding Ruark awaiting execution in jail. His only lucky break in all of this (if you could call it lucky) was that his last name is Beauchamp. A man with the same last name as the wealthy and aristocratic family of Beauchamp’s of England. Oh, and just to let you know……if you want to know how the Beauchamp’s got their start in the Americas, you have to start from “PETALS ON THE RIVER”. Here, you’ll get to meet a fiery and outspoken adopted daughter of one of England's most formidable women, Shemaine O'Hearn. Falsely accused of a crime she did not commit and was deported from England to serve her time in the Americas. Here, she will meet with Gage Thornton-a shipbuilder with a young child in need of a nanny. Gage is also accused of a crime he has no knowledge of. Together, they will rebuild their lives and solved out the mystery as to why they were condemn in the eyes of the public of their nonexistence crime.

Followed closely by “A ROSE IN WINTER”. I do love this book and it does come in close 2nd or even equal to “SHANNA”. The story is about one woman loving 2 very different men. Yeah, yeah….but it’s not that bad you know. She did end up with both guys. Jealous? Want to know more? Go get the book and read it yourself!

“THE WOLF AND THE DOVE”, a medieval love story about the Norman warrior Wulfgar and his beautiful Saxon Princess Aislinn. Oh, what tangle web we weave. Now, this story would not have taken off if they just sat down and talked about the invasion. But….oh, no. They had to do it the hard way. And Aislinn’s mother was demented enough to help with the cover up. Unfortunately, it was the wrong thing to do. But if that was how it happened then this would have been an anthology. Lucky for us that they never had the chat or reveal the truth early in the story. Another classic by KEW. You do get frustrated sometimes but a true KEW fan will just go with the flow.

And then, there is the Birmingham Family saga “THE FLAME AND THE FLOWER” , about Brandon Birmingham and the lovely Tory name Heather Simmons. This is followed by 2 anthology with the sequel to the Birmingham’s are “THREE WEDDINGS AND A KISS” and “MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT”. These 2 books are about how Jeff Birmingham met with his future wife Raelynn Barrett. But I can't for the life of me remember which book goes first. Then you can see how the story unfolds in “A SEASON BEYOND A KISS”. The saga continues with “THE ELUSIVE FLAME”, the first born of Brandon and Heather Birmingham, Beauregard Birmingham and his soon to be wife Cerynise Kendall. The story starts out a bit slow and a lot of details. But as you go onwards, you will find the story intriguing and you might laugh at some of the ways which Cerynise handles the ruffians and getting away with it.

“COME LOVE A STRANGER” is anything but! Okay, this is a story about a woman who has two (yes two) men claiming to be husbands. Her name is either Lenore by Malcom Sinclair or Lierin by Ashton Wingate (depending on which man is calling her). As the story unfolds, you will learn why it is that each man calls her a different name and what is the tie each has to her. Each man desires her, each in their own way. But which way will it be best for her and which man will truly lover her?

Here is where I disappoint you, for the following books were read but they (as Shania Twain sang) that don’t impress me much. Starting off with “ASHES IN THE WIND” where I felt that the story was too slow and took too long to read. Next we go to “SO WORTHY MY LOVE” which should have had a better ending. Well many of her stories should have had a better ending but who’s counting, right? “FOREVER IN YOUR EMBRACE” there’s just too much running around each other. No, no!! Not the hero and heroine. I’m talking about the good guys and the bad guys. You’ll get what I mean when you read the book. “THE RELUCTANT SUITOR” is another book I feel the hero should be bitch slap for being such an @$$ xxxx and his immaturity about the situation. Wait; did I get this book right? I’m getting confuse now?!? “EVERLASTING” ….. no comment. I did not get a chance to go through it with a fine tooth comb yet. Just leafing through it and…..ummm….still no comment yet.

All in all, KEW is still queen. As it has been attest by various authors (female, that is) that they grew up with her and that she inspired a lot of writers today. Like many authors today, you have your good days and your bad. Her’s too. It’s just too bad that we will not get to read anymore of her writing as she is no longer with us.

Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, creator of the modern historical romance, died Friday, July 6, 2007 in Minnesota. She had just turned 68, after a long illness. Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, who was predeceased by her husband and son Dorren, is survived by sons Sean and Heath, and numerous grandchildren.

She will be dearly missed, especially her devoted fans like me.

Your most loyal fan,

Toni

Nicole Jordan.........book 1, 2 and 3 of "THE COURTSHIP WARS" series (book 3)

“THE COURTSHIP WARS”

Book 3 ‘TO SEDUICE A BRIDE’. Ah, yes…….the long awaiting ending of the series (or maybe not). Lily Loring, the youngest of all three Loring sisters. No ordinary girl here. Since the first time that Heath Griffin the Marquess of Claybourne has seen her she has captured his imagination. Sworn off marriage and men (in general) due to her childhood experience, Lily would do anything to get away from Heath. But Heath has other ideas. He wants to prove to her that passion and love can be hers, if she would dare to risk it all. I have not yet read this book, as it is set to be on sale around the end of March’08. Like her previous predecessors, the excerpt from book 2 is enough to get you drooling for the book. From the looks of it, I have a feeling that this book will not only be hot! But… it will be sinfully HOT!! I’ll make the additional comments after I have read the book. Trust me, you will know about it!

Wanting to read it very soon!!
Toni

Nicole Jordan.........book 1, 2 and 3 of "THE COURTSHIP WARS" series (book 2)

As I promised you........here's book 2.

“THE COURTSHIP WARS”

Book 2 ‘TO PLEASURE A LADY’. Here is where you get to know the second Loring sister Roslyn, and our new hero Drew the Duke of Arden. Roslyn has her eye set on someone else entirely. Planning to have a loving relationship with another but needed the teachings of Drew on how to please a man. As for Drew, you must have read about him (a little) from the first book. He’s Marcus other best friend (there’s three of them) and this is his turn to shine. From reading the excerpts from the back of the first book, I expected this book to be hot. Not that the first one was not. Okay, maybe hotter. But I was wrong………it is burning hot!! However, the story will reveal the true reason why Roslyn will not marry Drew. His way of looking at marriage and getting married to her was something of a turn off **phoo, phoo** the chemistry was there but something’s just don’t click right. Nicole set her heart on writing this series and seems that this is another one that should be on the USA TODAY’S top 10 best seller too. Why don’t these people read what they are supposed to be reading and ranking what they’re supposed to rank? Fool, they be!!!

Enjoy Reading!

Toni

Nicole Jordan......book 1, 2 and 3 of "THE COURTSHIP WARS" series (book 1)

If you are a true die hard fan of Nicole Jordan, then you will not be disappointed in this series. For those of you who are not, here’s a good place as any other to start. Nicole Jordan, a name that should be ranked up with the New York TIMES best selling authors (expected to be listed in the top 5) is one of the best Historical Romance writers present. Many have not lasted this long or was able to keep their readers intrigued with the story lines or maybe even change their style of writing. But not Nicole! If you love Regency England period, you will lover her. Her story, characters are a page turner. Although I can’t say about her Westerns, because I have not had the chance to read any yet, but if I get my hands on one….I’ll post my view about it. All I need to do is find one and buy it. Okay, back to historicals….Starting off with her latest series, here we go…..

“THE COURTSHIP WARS”

Book 1 'TO PLEASURE A LADY’. This book is the story about Marcus Pierce the Earl of Danvers and his ward Arabella Loring. For Marcus, the best possible way to solve this problem of being responsible for this three sisters is to marry them off to the first eligible bachelor he deems suitable for them. Unbeknownst to Marcus, Arabella has sworn off marriage life. Not only her, but so did both of her sisters. This is a love story. So, if you are expecting mystery, murder and mayhem….you’ve come to the wrong place, but for those who is looking for love with romance with hot sizzling love scene (well, it’s not so hot as her other previous books) you’ve come to the right place. As the characters develop, you will come to know them better and even love them. I donno know about you, but that’s how her books are to me and still! Look it up, you might like it. If so, spread the word so she’ll be a best seller!

Regency romance readers should take note that this author will not disappoint you! I can guarantee on this as I have compared her book with another well known author and found that comparing to this (previously known as) New York TIMES best seller, she rocks!!! Big time. Her writing is very constant. She keeps to her style (not the plot). This is the one thing I feel that will keep her mainstream readers loyal. Oh, by the way!! She even replies her mail herself. I don’t know about you, but she did me!

Enjoy reading!

Toni

New Reading Matterials....

Just got an eyeful of Kathryn Anne Dubios.....I saw a set of books by Red Sage Publishing titled "Secrets" on sale (a real bargain). So, I got a couple......not knowing what I was getting myself into......OHMYGOSH!!! Some of the short here was wonderful, meanwhile.....some were not ment to be published at all (either that or my English is really, really bad). Anyway, I came upon Kathryn's short and was completely blown away. Wish she could have written th story a bit longer, but....never mind. You can look her up at www.kathrynannedubois.com . I went online and started searching for a couple of her printed books, which I am happy to say I have found. All I have to do now is just wait till I get to read it and I can input my comment on this 3 books. I do hope that they're as good as the excerpt that I've read. Many times, book excerpt are quite good but the book itself is seldom not. The story that I liked the most was from the book "Secret" volume9 and 10 - "Wilde For You" and "The Sacrifice". Previously, I had a book that was another short written by her but I didn't take my time to read it. As I was actually catching up on most of my Lora Leigh's stories. I later realized that it was written by her from her site. The book was from Elora's Cave Publishing titled "Elemental Desires" story titled 'Wynd Temptress'. At that time, I was going crazy about Lora Leigh to have notice anything else (sorry). So, I have to go back, dig out the book and start reading again......*sigh*. Okay, just a reminder......some of her stories are..... a bit lame (near the ending of the story) but, otherwise......kinda..........cute!

Happy reading,
Toni

I would like to introduce to you..........Nicole Jordan.

For "Historical Romance" lovers and beginning readers in the field of romance, you will not find another more intriguing as Nicole Jordan. Visit her website at http://www.nicolejordanauthor.com/ . I don't even remember how I got started on her books and which one was the first. I think it was around the same time I discovered Lucy Monroe. Anyway, it doesn't matter. All I know that comparing her to others who has made a mark writing historical, her's (at the present) is OUTSTANDING!!! I started out by reading Catherine Coulter: Devil Duology/Night, Magic, Legacy Trilogy/Song Series/Regency and Baron Seies; Julie Garwood: Regency-The Lion's Lady/Guardian Angel/The Gift/Castles, Medieval-The Secret/Ransom/Shadow Music/The Bride/The Wedding; the late Kathleen E. Woodiwiss : Shanna/The Flame and The Flower/The Wolf and The Dove/Ashes in the Wind/A Rose in Winter/Come Love a Stranger; Dorothy Garlock: River Trilogy; Judith McNaught: Kingdom of Dreams/Whitney My Love/Almost Heaven/Until You/Once and Always; Jude Deveraux: Montgomery Family Saga; Shanon Drake: Ondine (that's all I could think of); Amanda Quick:
Seduction/Surrender/Scandal/Rendezvous/Ravished/Reckless/Dangerous/
Deception/Desire/Mistress/Mystique/Mischief/Affair/With This Ring/I Thee Wed Wicked Widow/Slightly Shady/Don't Look Back/Late For the Wedding/
The Paid Companion/Wait Until Midnight/Lie By Moonlight/Second Sight/The River Knows.

Now, that was the good old days. I've recently found out that comparing to some of the above authors with the present day writing of Nicole, you could not believe that many of these authors (not counting KEW as she passed away on 6th of July, 2007, her latest book was "Everlasting") have lost their 'original' touch. I did a comparison, that's how I know. Trust me, I've been reading romance for the past 20years, I know what I'm talking about. Okay, where was I......ah, yes. Nicole Jordan.....if you want delicious historical romance with sizzling hot love scene, be sure to get her book. Suggestions? Of course, just pick up any (and I mean all of the whole) series written by her. You will not be disappointed. Starting off with

Paradise Series:
MASTER OF TEMPTATION
LORD OF SEDUCTION
WICKED FANTASY
FEVER DREAMS

Notorious Series:
THE SEDUCTION
THE PASSION
DESIRE
ECSTASY
THE PRINCE OF PLEASURE

The Courtship Wars:
TO PLEASURE A LADY
TO BED A BEAUTY
TO SEDUCE A BRIDE

As for the list below, if you could get your hands on any of these books....just remember, they're a keeper!

Other Novels in Print:
THE LOVER (updated reissue)
THE WARRIOR (updated reissue)
TOUCH ME WITH FIRE (reissue)

Other Novels Out of Print:
VELVET EMBRACE
DESIRE AND DECEPTION
MOONWITCH
TENDER FEUD
LORD OF DESIRE
WILDSTAR
TOUCH ME WITH FIRE (Avon Books 1993)
THE SAVAGE
THE WARRIOR (Avon Books 1995)
THE OUTLAW
THE LOVER (Avon Books 1997)
THE HEARTBREAKER

There's no disappointment in (most) of her books. I did not get them all yet, but will soon as I'm always looking for them on ebay. Especially the hardcovers. At the moment, I'm very happy (and satisfied) about her new series "The Courtship Wars". This series looks to be very promising and just hope that the last 2 books are as delicious as the excerpts sounds. The 1st book is out now, the other 2 will be in the following months March and April'08. So far, I have not missed out on her books yet.

Enjoy reading,
Toni

Romance novels done in "Manga" version!

I have posted the original story and the "Manga" version of the story below the book. This is now the most popular style in Asia. Various books published by Harlequin has been done in this format. A few were even translated in to English, if I am not mistaken, one was by Penny Jordan, .............. At the present, I was able to find the others that was translated in to various other Asian language. They had their humble beginning in Japanese. As far as I know, I've found over 30-40 books done like this. I know that some of these "Manga" is widely accepted in the US. It's just that when you take a English language romance, do the translation in to Japanese, it suck!!! Then to have it translated again in to English to match each frame was even worse as it was very difficult for those who translated the book without prior knowledge of the original story. However, if you love these characters (just don't expect too much out of it) then some of the artist are quite good....to very good! Some, like the artist that Christine Feehan used was just awful!!! So awful that a friend of mine who loved each and everyone of her "Dark" series just wept. The hero (in her mind) did not look this gaunt! She pictured him as the way we do all our heroes; tall, dark and handsome. This one is absolutely not!!! Others, I've still having a hard time trying to find their origin. I've been corresponding with various writers and trying to see who else will want their books to be done in the Manga version next. As far as I know, Lucy Monroe has one planned. Just planned. No agreement has come through, yet. And so far, Lucy still can not say if it would be published by Harlequin. Still waiting on this one, though.

Well, enough for today. Later, I'll write more about how I got started on this addiction to reading!

Toni

What's my new recommended reading (adults only)!

I didn't have much time commin back here to write up about my favorite books an authors for a (long, long) while. I'm still trying to catch up though. Some of my older blogs will be edited to better describe my feelings towards them. Soon, I hope that someone will like what I write and feel the same way about some of the authors I've posted about. Maybe even comment on a few or even all of them. Both books and authors. Anyway, back to the present....Recently, I've discovered that there are other kinds of romance. The adult kind. After an introduction (by my best friend) I've recently fell in love with a few new authors. Most of them are from "Elora's Cave" publishing and some are not. And they do write the most exciting stories. For example:

• Lora Leigh - Her "Breed" series are to die for. I started out reading one of her "Bound Hearts" series and went to her website www.loraleigh.com to do some search and started to read excerpts from a few of her books. The one that broke my heart was from the book titled "Elizabeth's Wolf". From then, I was hooked, line and sinker!!! But, then....all of her books are good. No, make that very good. **sigh** I have not read a LL book that I wanted to just put aside. Trust me on this, will ya? There are still a few of her books I still don't have, I'm planning to get them. But not in the near future as there are a lot of books out this time of the year. I'll have to think (hard) about it as it's costing me an arm and a leg (on my credit card bill). Ha, ha!!! There's only one word for Lora Leigh, and that's HOT! HOT! HOT! Sizzling hot!!!! Man, wish I can find me one of them breed men. I'd love them to death! If you ever get your hands on her books, don't put it down till you read a few pages. Trust me, it is absolutely, positively,......oh, I just can't put it in words. Find out yourself!
• Ravyn Wlide - At the moment I am readying from her "Zylan" series. I was laughing my ass off when I read one of her anthologies "A.D. 2203 Adam & Eve". From there I went to her site at www.ravynwlide.com had a look around and fond the "Zylan" series. So, I got them and is loving it!!! Good fun reading, story is touching ( well, that's how I feel) and you feel you want to know more about the characters as the saga continues....
• Anya Bast - It started from the recommendation from the site www.eharlequin.com that introduce me to Anya Bast. I bought one of her book "Witch Fire" and enjoyed it a lot. The story is not too complicated, the sex is hot (but not too hot). Then, at the end of her book, she had an excerpt of the sequel. So, I'm still waiting for her next book to be out, if I'm not mistaken it should be titled "Witch Blood". It should be by March'08. I'll let you know how I feel about it. You can find out more from her web at www.anyabast.com .
• Sylvia Day - Just like Anya Bast, I found out about her book from harlequin. I ordered a book titled "Perfect Kisses" and it contained an analogy written by her. From there (again) I went to her website and found a few more of her printed books and also bought one of her e-book, because it was a sequel to another of her books. From there, I have tried to get my hands on any and all of her printed books. Turns out that I fell in love with one of them. It is from the series of books called "Dream Guardians". The book is titled "Pleasures of the Night". For me (I don't know anyone else) the book generated for me laughter and tears (a lot of tears too)!! I so love Aidan and Lyssa. So much so that I left a message on her message board about the book. You can find out more at www.sylviaday.com . Trust me, you'll fall in love with each and everyone of her heroes and heroines! Her new book is "Heat of the Night", wondering who's next on my to love list? I just it was worth the wait.....
• Diane Whiteside - What can I say about Diane? I don't even remember how I started out reading Diane? All I know is that her "Devil" series is not something to be taken lightly. Out of all of her books from that series, I think that I love (I love easy so I've got a lot, so there's lots to go around) her "The Irish Devil". The book was so hot, I burn my hands reading it (3 times over)! Man, this woman can write!!! And her paranormal aren't bad either. Oh, wait!!! I remember now, I started reading Diane from following up on Lucy Monroe's anthology from a book titled "Unleashed". That's where I met Diane. Now, I remember and clearly too!!! From there it kept growing and growing and growing till I've completely bought all her printed books. The 2nd Diane book I got was "Captive Dream" which was an eye opener for me. Then later my friend introduce me to Lora Leigh. But I loved it! And follow up with "The Switch". I felt that the fantasy written in the story was out of this world! Especially the one when Beth was the commander and Sean the pirate. Man, that was hard to put down!!! Check her out at www.dianewhiteside.com
• Ashleigh Raine - A tag team of best friends who became writers and write wonderful stories. I've read only one of their stories from "Angel In Moonlight", which was an series of short stories (again anthology) written by several writers. I discover this team of writers by accident. The author I was looking for was Lora Leigh(again) and I got a little extra with Ashleigh. Just too bad the story was too short. If they could have extended the plot longer and develop the characters more, they would have had a wonderful piece of work! Other wise, she's okay. I need to read more to be able to say yes or no. But so far, good....but needs improvement.

Next time, I'll be writing about Lucy Monroe, Barbara McCauley and Nicole Jordan.....If I can find the time for them.

Toni