Terry's Lesfic Reviews

A Kiss Before Dawn by Laurie Salzler

2012-02-27T15:15:00.000Z

Chris Martel is a loner. She is more comfortable with her horses and dogs than she is with people. She has one friend, an eighty one year old widow, Frances Cook. When Chris requires a woman’s company, she heads out to the lesbian bar in Rochester. Chris has never had a real relationship. She has too many issues from her past and has a problem trusting people. For Chris to be able to love, she has to learn to trust, which isn’t an easy thing for her to do.

Newly qualified vet, Mary Jo Cavanaugh DVM, meets Chris when she goes with her boss, Doc Hall, to Chris’s farm. She doesn’t make a good first impression when she upsets one of Chris’s precious horses, nearly killing herself in the process.

Once both women get over their initial meeting, they find they have a lot in common. Including a growing mutual attraction for each other.

Gradually Chris begins to let go of her inhibitions and Mary Jo and Chris manage to move their relationship on to the next level. Unfortunately, someone from Chris’s past makes an unwelcome appearance, which could well end the budding relationship between Chris and Mary Jo forever.

Will Chris and Mary Jo’s love survive this intrusion, allowing them to share a kiss before dawn?

This is a lovely well written debut novel, which goes far beyond a lesbian romance. During the course of each year, if I’m lucky, a debut book will be written that exceeds all my expectations. This book is one of those.

It is obvious from the very beginning that Laurie Salzler has a talent for writing, is an animal lover and researches her subjects well. If you love animals you will adore this book, as the animals play a large part in progressing this story along.

Even if you are not a particular animal lover, I feel you would like this book. Both main characters are extremely loveable and there is a good story-line. It’s also hot in parts too as an added bonus. I would defy anyone not to tear up when they read the story of Chris’s earlier life. The life she had with her family before her arrival in Bristol. The life Chris led is a big part of the person she is today.

Mary Jo’s work as a vet also plays a big part in the book. It’s was also very interesting to read of her life as a vet and the day to day work she does, the problems she faces and how she deals with them.

All the characters are well formed and each interacts well with the others to enhance the story. The scenic descriptions are fabulous. From the descriptive writing I could ‘smell’ the stables, and the outdoors. A true sign I was totally lost in the story. This book is a page turner that kept me up way beyond my usual bedtime. A book that I will definitely re-read.

It would be nice to see more of Chris and Mary Jo, even if they are part of another book and not main characters.

I’m not sure how Laurie Salzler is going to top this book with her next one. But it will be on my ‘to buy’ list as a must read.

A Guardian's Touch by Stein Willard

2012-02-17T10:28:00.002Z

In Transylvania in 32 B.C, Tahlia Oliveira was turned into a vampire. Tahlia is destined to become the Vampire Queen, one of the most feared and dangerous royal vampires to ever exist. Prior to her re-birth as a vampire, Tahlia had fallen deeply in love with Aurora, the daughter of the head of Caesar’s bodyguards. It broke both Tahlia’s and Aurora’s hearts when Tahlia had to leave Rome to go to Transylvania. It was unavoidable though, her mother wanted the best for Tahlia and she needed the money that she would receive for handing over Tahlia to Lecrac, supposedly to further her education.

Tahlia and Aurora had formed an unbreakable bond between them that would last throughout the centuries that followed. As each century passed by, Tahlia’s only reason for her existence in the vampire world was for her lover to be re-born, reincarnated.

Tahlia loves her mortal partner from each re-birth until her mortal death. The cycle is endless. The times in between her lovers reincarnation are torture for Tahlia.

Then the day comes when her lovers re-birth clashes with an enemy set on destroying the vampire hierarchy, an enemy of old, an enemy known to Tahlia. The threat will not be against Tahlia directly. Indirectly though, the threat will jeopardize Tahlia’s un-dead existence, therefore upsetting the Royal Clan Vampires forever. Will Tahlia be able to outwit and destroy the enemy?

This is the first book in a new vampire series, it is also Stein Willard’s debut book. The book is wonderfully well written, the story is tense and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough at first. I had to stop myself, to slow down and savor the story. It is much too good to rush through.

The characters are well formed, each plays a crucial part into the progression of the story. The settings are described so that they leave nothing to the imagination. I was there, living this story alongside of the vampires and mortals. The sights, sounds and smells all came alive. I was totally in tune with this story, nothing else around me mattered except for finishing this book.

As well as learning all about the vampire clan over the centuries, we learn of the emotions of a love that transcends all time and lasts through the centuries to the present day.

The heat of Tahlia’s and her mortal lover’s love just belts off the page throughout the book, no matter what century we are reading about. To say the romance is hot, would be an understatement, it’s sizzling.

Stein has seamlessly woven the story of the past and the present into a gripping book that I simply could not put down.

I’m really looking forward to seeing which direction the next book in the series will take. I’ve read many vampire books, this is one of the best I’ve read in a long while. I hope Stein is not going to keep us waiting for the next book in this series.

Pennance by Clare Ashton

2012-02-13T14:58:00.001Z

After the death of her partner, Jake, in a tragic car accident, Lucy’s life falls apart. Lucy is haunted by Jake’s death. She withdraws from the world, shutting herself up in the cottage they shared and becomes a virtual recluse. Just emerging when it’s essential. Lucy is nursing her fears and fuelling her guilt that she could have and should have been able to save Jake from their burning car. More to the point is Lucy’s guilt that she didn’t love Jake enough to save him.

When Karen and her two children moved in to the empty property next door, that belonged to Karen’s parents, Lucy was none too pleased. The last thing Lucy wanted or needed was someone invading her privacy. But once Lucy meets Karen and her children, she finds herself coming out of her self imposed isolation and actually beginning to live a little.

Lucy finds herself drawn to Karen and she love’s Karen’s three year old son, George. Unfortunately, she doesn’t have the same rapport with Karen’s daughter, Sophia. But no matter, they tolerate each other. In time both Lucy and Karen feel a mutual attraction to one another, will either woman act upon it?

As time passes Lucy becomes more and more convinced that someone is trying to kill her, she becomes paranoid that someone is out to make her pay for her being alive and Jake dying. Little things keep happening around her. But, is the threat real or imagined? What will it take to unravel the mystery? Will this cost Lucy and Karen their friendship?

This is a wonderfully well written debut mystery romance. Right from the beginning, the story is gripping and a page turner right through to the end. A book that once started, I did not want to put down.

The way Clare Ashton has told this story is breath taking. Lucy’s descent into paranoia and near madness from her guilt at not being able to save her partner, is written with such clarity that the emotions are coming in waves off of the pages.

It is nice to see the change in Lucy as she begins to accept Karen’s friendship. But like every story, the paths of love and friendship never run smoothly and there are many obstacles put in their way.

Karen has her own secrets she is hiding too. Which all adds fuel to the fast heating story. The story sizzles off the pages and made me want to finish it quickly.

The mystery stayed a mystery throughout. I simply could not guess what was happening and who was doing what. Which is a big bonus for me. I love a good mystery. All I will tell you here is that the revelation shocked me. Stunned me. Unbelievable, brilliantly thought out.

The characters are so well formed and easy to get to know, that I lost myself amongst them. I was there with them. The setting of this book is Cornwall. My home county. I can tell you, the scenic views are as beautiful as Clare has described them.

The end of this book came all too soon, even though I was desperate to find out who, what and why. This is a book I will re-read even though I know the outcome. Sometimes it’s just nice to have a comfort read, no pressure, just to enjoy the story.

I’m looking forward to any lesfic book Clare may write in the future. I hope it will be sooner rather than later.

Come and Go by Lee Harlem Robinson

2012-02-13T14:57:00.000Z

Lee Harlem Robinson had all the women she wanted, when she wanted them. That is, until she moved to Hong Kong for her job. It seems that eligible lesbians are few and far between in Hong Kong.

When Lee meets upmarket banker Stella Morales, a few months later, she falls head over hells in love with her. Unfortunately, the same doesn’t seem to be said for Stella. She betrays Lee and dumps her for a new young intern, CJ.

Lee’s life spins out of control. She starts hanging out with her single gay male friends and begins drinking far too much and her job begins to suffer.

Then Lee meets up with lawyer/photographer, Nikki. Nikki could be just what Lee needs to be able forget Stella and move on. But will she be able to? Although Lee likes Nikki well enough, it seems it’s not enough, she can’t let go of Stella. What will happen with Lee and Nikki?

With things going from bad to worse in her job, Lee’s boss and ex lover, Lucy, decides to fly out and pay a visit, in the hope of getting the company back on track. Will Lee succumb to Lucy’s charms again?

Lee is confused, her life isn’t her own anymore. She ends up sleeping with Stella again while she is with Nikki. Then there is Lucy added into the mix. How much will Nikki put up with? Will Lee ever manage to sort her life out?

This is Lee Harlem Robinson’s debut book. It is a delightful, delicious, well written lesbian drama/romance/chick lit. The book is set in Hong Kong, which makes a wonderful setting for a book.

The book centers around Lee and the lives of her mainly gay male friends. The characters are all well formed and easy to get to know, with nice interaction between them all. This is a story of love, loss and finding love again. With an added touch of humor thrown in for good measure.

As with most romance books, the path of true love never runs smoothly or with out hitches. This is not a typical ‘girl meets girl, girl loses girl, girl gets girl back’ romance however. It is refreshingly different. But we still get the desired effect that most of us look for in a romance, that happy ever after ending.

I look forward to reading more from this promising new author soon.

Heart Stopper by R.J Samuel

2012-02-12T10:05:00.002Z

Dr Priya Joseph is a coder. She works at a dedicated up and coming pacemaker clinic in Galway, just off the west coast of Ireland. Priya is of Indian descent, an Irish Indian.

Priya hasn’t had a very easy life. Her parents were quite pushy and they never really accepted the fact that Priya is a lesbian either.

Priya’s life had spiralled out of control a couple of years earlier. She was just beginning to get her life back to some semblance of order, when she meets a woman on a night out. Unfortunately for Priya, she’d had so much to drink, she couldn’t remember much about it.

When Priya woke up in a strange apartment the following morning, she found her boss, Dr Daniel Fairing, an American cardiologist dead. She had no recollection of how she got there, panicked and ran.

Daniel’s family don’t believe that he died of a heart attack. His mother Catherine and sister Reyna, enlist Priya’s help to investigate into his death.

Priya slowly begins to uncover secrets appertaining to the new wireless pacemaker technology that Daniel and his partners had developed. Priya also uncovers facts that proves she had unwittingly been involved with the earlier research, that could have far reaching consequences for not only herself, but many other people. Along the way, Priya uncovers secrets and lies about her past, secrets that could change Priya’s outlook on life now. Priya has to uncover and unravel the mystery from her past research to find the answers she is looking for. But Priya is being pursued by an unknown enemy. Will she be able to solve the mystery before she becomes another victim? Or will her pursuers catch up with her and force her into helping them?

Meanwhile Priya and Reyna are feeling a mutual attraction between them. Priya has her past to overcome though. Will she be able to put it behind her? More to the point, what will Priya feel when she learns of even more secrets from her past?

Reyna is also hiding a secret. She has a past that she has to resolve before she can move on. But will Reyna be able to settle her past to be able to move on? When the truth comes out, will Priya even want to be with her?

This is R. J Samuel’s debut book. It is different from any of the other medical themed books I’ve ever read. It is well written, fast paced, intriguing, mysterious, exciting, thrilling, dramatic and a real page turner.

R. J has written in great detail of the workings and technology of a pacemaker, all seamless integrated into the story. She has obviously carried out extensive research with all the technical details in this book. I’m afraid some of this went over my head, but I could get the gist of it all. So, I did learn a few things along the way too.

This book is far more than a medical drama, thriller, murder mystery or a romance. It is a unique combination of all these things. R.J writes about race, sexual orientation and also about being an outsider in a new country. The characters are all written so that the reader can feel a part of the group.

I loved the book, settings, characters and the story. Although this book is a book I couldn’t wait to finish, at the same time when I did, I felt as though I hadn’t had enough.

I am looking forward to R.J Samuel’s next book very much.

Awake Unto Me by Kathleen Knowles

2012-02-09T14:38:00.001Z

Kerry O’Shea’s mother died when she was born. Kerry grew up on the Barbary Coast of San Francisco, living her young life among prostitutes at the Grey Dog saloon. Kerry’s father, Jack does his best to do right by her, but he’s a con man and a gambler and doesn’t set the best example for a young girl.

After Jack dies, Kerry goes to live with Dr Addison Grant, an acquaintance of her father’s, and his prim and proper wife, Laura. Kerry is determined to make a better life for herself. She begins work at the Palace Hotel as a dishwasher. After a great battle of wits, she works her way up to become a cook.

Beth Hammond’s life hasn’t been easy. She grew up with unsupportive parents, her father was a domineering man, and seemed to think Beth should work all hours in his store. All Beth can think about is escaping and studying nursing. Which eventually she is able to do.

Kerry and Beth first meet at the home of Addison and Laura. For Kerry, it is love at first sight. But Kerry has known for years she prefers women. What will Kerry do? Will Kerry trust that Beth won’t run away if she tells her how she feels? Beth, although she has strong feelings for Kerry, has no idea why or what it means. Beth is also hiding a dark secret, which if she divulges, could lose her Kerry’s friendship forever. What will Beth do? Will Beth trust Kerry?

This is a wonderfully well written debut book. It doesn’t read like a debut book. Now and then I read a debut book and it is so good, I find it hard to believe the author hasn’t published before. This is one of those books.

The book is set in San Francisco and the story begins in 1880. It is quite obvious that Kathleen Knowles has done extensive research into the history of turn of the century San Francisco, for this book. It is far more than just a simple lesbian romance. The history comes alive.

As I began to read this story, I felt as though I had been transported back in time. The descriptive settings were so vivid, I could almost smell the aroma of the Bay area.

For anyone who has visited San Francisco, they will know some of these places still exist and some things haven’t changed at all. It is very easy to get lost into the story and to become a part of it.

The two main characters, Kerry and Beth, are well formed and loveable and there is a strong cast of supporting characters to progress the story along it’s way.

This is a story of courage, first love, romance and how women could make a life outside of marriage, which was the norm for women of those times.

The story of these two courageous women will remain with me for a long time. This is definitely a re-read for me. I look forward to more from this promising new author soon.

Lunatic Fringe by Allison Moon

2012-02-09T14:37:00.000Z

Lexie Clarion is a regular eighteen year old girl. Just like many other girls of her age, she is feeling nervous as she gets ready to go off to college. Lexie has no way of knowing that her life is about to change beyond anything she ever dreamed of.

When Lexie arrives at college, she is determined to make the most of everything and enjoy her life and the freedom of being away from home. She tries to put to the back of her mind the rise in attacks from local werewolves. She isn’t going to let this spoil her new life style.

When Lexie meets up with a group of feminist young women, calling themselves the Pack, she becomes caught up in their world. She is fascinated by the way they are so intimate together. This is really what Lexie secretly desires, to be with another girl.

Unfortunately, it soon becomes apparent that these girls aren’t all they seem at face value. What will Lexie do when she discovers their shocking secret?

After a tree destroys Lexie’s dorm room, fortunately for her she was out at the time, Lexie meets Archer, one of the clean up crew. Lexie and Archer hit it off and Lexie agrees to go off with Archer after the tree is removed. They go to a meeting of the Full Moon Tribe. This will be the turning point in Lexie’s life. Life as she knows it will be gone forever.

The Pack have other plans for Lexie and they don’t include Archer. So, the Pack and Archer have to fight it out to see who Lexie will allow into her life, but it can’t be Archer and the Pack. Lexie and Archer love one another, but who will Lexie choose?

As the battle rages, new enemies, old hatreds and Lexie’s past all emerge, all set to change Lexie’s life forever.

This book begins with sweet and innocent Lexie going off to college. It’s here that Lexie finds out the truth about her life and family. It’s here that Lexie has her first taste of love. Also where Lexie must come to terms with the fact that she isn’t like other young girls.

There is so much in this book, it is much more than just another lesbian werewolf romance. It tells of the innocence of youth and the pain and anguish of falling in love, of discovering things no young girl should ever have to know about herself. The pain, anguish, love and triumphs radiate off the page.

Although this book started off a little bit on the slow side, it picked up fairly quickly to become a page turner that I couldn’t put down.

I loved the way the characters came together and spoke to me. Each of the characters played their own parts in furthering the story along. Even though I disliked some of them, as we are meant to do, they were well written and essential. The main characters are werewolves, but unlike some books of this nature, it is easy to like them and get close to them.

The settings are so well described, I lost myself in them. I could smell the woods. This was a well written book with a great storyline. It will be very interesting to see where this story goes next.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I hope we don’t have to wait too long.

Dust by Ann McMan

2012-02-05T11:01:00.000Z

Evan Reed is in the dust busting business. She is paid by political campaigns to dish the dirt on candidates running for election.

Evan is a lesbian, she has a fourteen year old daughter, Stevie. A result of an experimental encounter with Stevie’s father, Dan. A man still in both their lives.

Evan is hired to investigate Andy Townsend, the former governor of Delaware, who could well become the next President of the USA. As Evan gets deeper into her investigation, she uncovers far more than she bargained for, including a murder.

When Evan meets Andy Townsend’s reclusive wife, Julia Donne, She discovers Julia is also hiding her own pile of dust.

Things become even more complicated when Evan and Julia discover they have a mutual attraction for each other. Evan tries to fight it off, after all, Julia is straight, isn’t she? Evan’s common sense is screaming no, don’t get involved. But her heart is telling her something different. Will Evan take notice of her head or her heart?

A truly wonderful, well written, second book. Full of suspense, mystery, intrigue and of course romance, of which the true path never runs smoothly. There are so many ups and downs and twists and turns in this book, it was hard to say if I was on a roller coaster or a carousel, or both at the same time.

I simply couldn’t put this book down, the mystery and intrigue kept me guessing right through. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough and at the end, I wanted more. I would love to see what happens to Evan and Julia next.

I enjoyed the touch of humor throughout, although the story itself was seriously written. It was just right to lighten things up a bit.

The story is set in both the USA and travels across the Atlantic to the UK and back again. The settings are so descriptive, I felt a part of the story. It was like looking in from the side lines.

I loved all the characters, each played their parts to perfection, even the ones you love to dislike.

I am greatly looking forward to more soon from Ann McMan. A refreshing new voice in lesbian fiction.

Third by Q Kelly

2012-02-05T10:59:00.003Z

Historian Helen Franklin’s area of expertise is the Tudor times. Imagine her surprise when she receives a highly improbable inheritance from her father, scientist Josiah Franklin. Josiah gives her a woman. Not just any woman though. This woman is none other than Anne Boleyn, King Henry V111’s beheaded Queen. How can this be? Anne has traveled through time, that’s how. Helen can’t believe her eyes.

Yalia is Helen’s wife. Helen and Yalia are on the verge of separating. Yalia has not been herself since a traumatic incident in her life occurred three years earlier. Is this really the end of their marriage? They do still love one another, but sadly, this doesn’t seem enough.

Anne Boleyn is being kept a prisoner by Josiah Franklin. He maintains this is for her own good. Anne knows Josiah is dying and she is not looking forward to what will happen to her afterwards. How will she get on with Helen?

When Helen, Yalia and Anne all meet, they are all aware of a strange bond between them. Gradually all three women become aware that they are in love with each other. But all three women are nursing their own vulnerabilities. Will they be able to overcome them?

Will all three women take a chance and live their lives together? What will happen with Anne? After all she has come from the past. Will she be able to remain in the present? Or will she suddenly return to the past?

Once again, Q Kelly has surpassed herself with her ‘going where other authors fear to tread’ writing.

I wasn’t sure whether to buy this book or not when I read the synopsis. I liked the time travel idea, but I wasn’t at all sure I wanted to read about a three way relationship. But, as I’ve enjoyed Q Kelly’s other books, I decided to buy it and take a chance. I’m glad I did. Third is a well written, page turning adventure. Not at all what I expected. If the truth be known, I thought the book would be sleazy. But it’s not. Far from it. The way these three women genuinely care for one another comes through loud and clear.

Helen and Yalia’s situation is common. A failing marriage for one reason or another. It’s how they manage to stay together that’s unusual.

This really is a book on it’s own, like no other I’ve read. Unique in fact.

The story covers a lot of ground. Time travel, history, the past, the present, polyamory and romance. All seamlessly interwoven to ensure the story runs smoothly on. Once you start this book, you won’t want to put it down. The book ended all too soon for me. A sure sign I enjoyed it. I look forward to Q’s next book eagerly.

All In The Family by Q Kelly

2012-02-05T10:58:00.000Z

Allison knew from an early age she was a lesbian. She had been raped by her step father when she was only twelve years old. She gave birth to her son Allen when she was thirteen, now at sixteen she is working in The Addict coffee place to help her mother make ends meet. Susan, Allison’s mother, has claimed Allen for her own son. Allison is not happy about this, but doesn’t have any choice.

Susan has a new man in her life, lawyer Barry Cannizarro. Barry has a seventeen year old daughter Sam. Sam is deaf and she attends military school away from home. Allison has seen photo’s of Sam and likes what she has seen, more than likes in fact. Allison is set on her and Sam becoming friends and may be more in time and begins to learn sign language in preparation for Sam’s return home. She teaches Allen as well.

Will Allison and Sam get on as well together as Allison hopes?

When Sam arrives home from school, she finds that she has a ready made family waiting for her. A family that Sam doesn’t feel a part of. She likes Allison well enough though and gradually comes around to liking Allen as well. Who wouldn’t like the little bundle of mischief?

Sam finds herself more than liking Allison. But Allison has been pushed by her mother into dating boys, so Sam thinks she doesn’t have a chance. Will both Allison and Sam confide their feeling for one another? Or will each girl go on thinking the other is straight?

As always with Q Kelly’s books, she covers topics that most authors would avoid. I have to give Q Kelly credit for being fearless in her writing. This book is no exception with the varied topics she covers.

This book centers around Sam a young deaf lesbian. It tells of her life within a family where she feels unwanted. Sam’s father re-marries and Sam doesn’t get along with her manipulative step mother. When Sam and Allison get to know each other well, Sam finds it hard to stand back and watch Susan push Allison around.

The story covers over five years of Sam and Allison’s lives. It tells of the emotional turmoil suffered by both Allison and Sam due to interference in their lives and how life almost spirals out of control for both of them.

The story is well written and I loved the characters.

It would have been nice to have had at least a glimpse into Sam’s life at military school. She spent a lot of time there in between her home visits.

I also would have liked to see a little more on how Allison coped with her drinking problem.

All in all though, this was a good read.

Paradise by Kate Sweeney

2012-02-03T15:06:00.004Z

Genevieve Gastineau is a reporter in a tiny town in Wyoming after being fired by the New York Times. Genevieve needs desperately to get her career back on track, so she needs a really good story. After hearing about a reclusive woman living miles away from civilization way up in the mountains, Genevieve feels the pull of the break through story she has been waiting for. All she has to do is to convince her boss to let her go and investigate it.

Graham Sheridan is the woman living the lonely life in a cabin way up in the mountains. She is there alone for a variety of reasons.

Genevieve gets her own way and eventually meets up with Graham. An accident and a heavy snowstorm strand Genevieve up the mountain in Graham’s cabin for several months.The longer Genevieve spends with Graham, the more she feels unable to carry out her obligations to write the story. Genevieve cannot betray Graham, she has fallen in love with her and her feelings are reciprocated. Together they find themselves becoming as one, having strange dreams and fighting off an unknown evil. Could all of this be connected as to why Genevieve was fired and why she felt the need to write Graham’s story?

Once again Kate has written a winner. I was totally into this story from the first page. As always with Kate’s writing, I found myself laughing at some of the dialogue. The two characters, Genevieve and Graham are so in tune with each other, they are a true pleasure to know. The story is a delight to read. A really nice romance with a little touch of something extra. Excellent work Kate, as always.

Open Water by Pol Robinson

2012-02-03T15:04:00.002Z

After a bad car accident, thirty two year old Cass Flynn manages to get herself fit enough again to be selected for the double scull rowing team to compete in the Olympics in China. She knows time is running out for her and this will be her only chance to compete.

On her arrival in China, she is met by twenty eight year old rower, Laura Kelly. However Laura doesn’t seem to like Cass and makes her feel very awkward at the lack of a welcome. But as time goes on the two women begin to forge a friendship. Unknown to Cass, Laura is suffering the pain of her ex girlfriend’s sister’s suicide. For which her ex holds her responsible. When Laura’s ex shows up unexpectedly, things begin to go rapidly downhill. The tentative friendship between Cass and Laura is also threatened.

Meanwhile, both Laura and Cass have to continue training for their respective events. Even that doesn’t go smoothly when unexplained things begin to happen. Will Laura and Cass ever get to be friends, let alone more than friends? Which is what they were both aiming for.

A very good debut novel. Although I’m clueless where rowing is concerned, I really enjoyed the excitement of the racing events. The story moves along at a fast pace and I was unable to put the book down. I look forward to more from this author, hopefully very soon.

Crystal's Heart by B.L Miller and Verda Foster

2012-02-03T15:02:00.000Z

Crystal Sheridan is a stripper. She ran away from an abusive home when she was fifteen, ten years before. She lived alone in a seedy run down apartment, that is until she accidentally caused a fire and it burned down one night. After spending the rest of the night in her car, she goes apartment hunting. For the money she can afford, she is offered a chance of sharing an apartment with lesbian author, Laura Taylor. It’s actually Laura’s friend Peter, that rents the place to Crystal in Laura’s absence.

When Laura returns to her home and meets Crystal, she is horrified. The two roomies are as different as night and day. Crystal drinks, smokes and does drugs, to say nothing of her stripping job and is an untidy slob. Laura on the other hand, hardly drinks, abhors drugs and is also an obsessive neat freak. How are the two women going to exist living together?

Time elapses and both women find themselves becoming more tolerant towards each other. Laura sees a vulnerability in Crystal that changes her outlook of the woman all together. She sets out to help Crystal overcome her fears. In helping Crystal, it also helps Laura overcome some of her own fears. It’s not long before Laura begins to feel more for Crystal than just friendship. But Crystal is straight, isn’t she? Also as the two women have nothing in common, will they even be able to become friends?

I first read this book online a few years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed the book then. Both BL Miller and Verda Foster have covered some extremely sensitive topics brilliantly. Child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, prostitution, and infidelity are just some of them . But the book is written with such understanding that what could be a big turn off for a reader, actually makes a reader understand more about the subjects, without getting too heavy. I only wish BL Miller and Verda Foster would write more books.

Conquest by Ronica Black

2012-02-03T14:59:00.001Z

Jude Jaeger has a room in the Conquest Club she uses for pleasuring women. She is a lesbian and is not interested in having a relationship. She wants women for one thing only, to give them the pleasure and passion they can’t get elsewhere and with no strings attached. This works out fine for Jude until she meets Mary Brunelle one evening.

Mary isn’t like all the other women Jude pleasures and Jude finds herself reacting to Mary in ways she didn’t think was possible. Mary is shy and a loner. She had gone to Conquest after being set up by some work acquaintances. But Mary finds herself in Jude’s arms having the hottest sex of her life. Mary is desperate to meet up with Jude again and leaves numerous messages at the club which all go unanswered. One evening when Mary is in her language class, she sees Jude again. She is there in her official capacity of the Professor overseeing Mary’s class. Mary is now more determined than ever to pursue Jude again, no matter what the consequences.

Meanwhile, Jude is battling with her own feelings towards Mary. She can’t let go of her past though. She can’t become involved with Mary just to suffer more pain and hurt. Will the two women be able to get beyond sex to have a relationship? Will they even meet up for sex anymore or will Jude be strong enough to say no?

This book is so hot, it’s smoking and smouldering throughout. The book is fairly short, but very sweet and has a really nice story to it. So, if you like hot with a story and loveable characters, take this to the beach. Make sure you take a tent though!

Confined Spaces by Renee MacKenzie

2012-02-03T14:56:00.003Z

Andie Waters day job is testing waste water samples for Royal Environmental a corporate company. In the evenings she works as a bar tender at The Cave, a popular meeting place for straight people. Andie has the two jobs to pay off her debts. She is quite happy being single, well, there is her faithful old dog, Xena as well. All this changes when the most gorgeous lesbian she’s ever seen walks into The Cave one night and Andie takes her home. What Andie doesn’t realize is that the woman she’s just spent a steamy weekend with, Kara Travis, is in town to shake up the company Andie works for. This also cuts both ways, Kara has no idea she might be having to fire Andie from her job in the very near future. Imagine the surprise for both women when they come face to face at Royal Environmental’s offices on Monday.

Kara can’t let her personal life interfere with her work. Especially when she discovers fraud within the company. If Kara has to shut down the Georgia division and Andie loses her job, it would seriously affect any relationship they may have. So, Kara has to put a stop to it before it goes any further. Both Kara and Andie find that easier said than done though. What will they do?

A nice believable story and it really doesn’t hurt that it’s romantic and hot in parts either. I got right into this book from the very first page and it held me until the last. This is Renee’s debut novel. I sincerely hope we have another book soon.

The Truck Comes On Thursday by Sue Hardesty

2012-01-27T14:10:00.002Z

Loni Wagner returns home to her small Arizona home town from L.A after her grandmother has a stroke. Loni is still grieving after the death of her partner and love of her life Maria, who was shot in the line of duty. If Loni expected a quiet life after the hustle and bustle of being a cop in L.A, she was very much mistaken in her thoughts.

Highway Patroller, Loni sees plenty of action, including a suspicious plane crash, car accidents galore, rapes, murders, drug running and human trafficking from across the Mexican borders are just for starters.

Her homophobic racist Chief hates her, he gives her every horrible and menial job he can find. He is a sexist redneck pig and Loni despises him.

Loni has her own family problems too. Her Native American grandparents are suffering great losses at the hands of cattle rustlers. Losses they can ill afford. Will Loni be able to catch them?

While Loni is trying to move on from Maria’s death, she finds herself drawn to two women. But can Loni let the past go and move on?

Meanwhile there is a mystery to solve too. Will Loni be allowed to work on it? The Chief is against Loni, so are others. Will Loni win through?

This is an extremely well written book that is much more than ‘just another mystery’. Yes, there is a mystery Loni has to solve, with or with out the help of her fellow police officers. Some of whom she’s not sure she can trust. But this book also goes into the history of Loni’s ancestors, giving us a great look backwards into the past and bygone days in Arizona.

The story is set in present time Arizona with glimpses back into the past using writings given to Loni from her grandparents time. Loni is part Native American and is not always treated with respect by some of the white folks around her. The story tells us of how Loni copes with the racist remarks thrown her way. There is a glimpse into Loni’s school days also. It is always nice when I can get to know how the character got to where they are today.

I especially like the way Sue Hardesty has interwoven the stories of Loni’s grandparents in-between the present day goings on.

The characters are a pleasure to get to know, well, some of them are. Even the baddies are written so you dislike them immediately. They are written exactly as they should be.

The Arizona settings are magnificent. The heat radiated off the page. Even though it’s winter I began to feel hot.

So, if you are looking for a book that is as much history and regular police work as it is mystery, give this one a try. I don’t think it will disappoint you.

After The Night by Rachel Dax

2012-01-27T10:34:00.001Z

Set In Berkshire, England in the 1960's

Chief Officer Jean MacFarlane works at Deepdown Women’s Prison. She is loved by the prisoners and most of the staff for her fairness and compassion. But Jean is hiding heartbreak. She has loved and lost her one true love.

Leah Webster has just joined the staff as a nurse in the prison hospital. Jean MacFarlane is the person that has to show her around. Within days, of Leah beginning her new job, all hell breaks loose. Jean and Leah find themselves involved in the near death by beating of a young prisoner, Amy Hodgkins, the murder of a much loved elderly prisoner and the homophobic beatings of other prisoners. To top everything, Leah begins to find herself falling in love with Jean. How can this be? Leah is straight and engaged to be married. In a panic Leah does something that will have an outcome on the rest of her life. But before the consequences of her actions become apparent, Leah finds herself more in love with Jean than with anyone else she has ever known. She doesn’t even know if Jean is a lesbian or even if she feels the same. Will Leah allow societies prejudices to stop her from finding out?

A thoroughly enjoyable fast paced read that kept me up most of the night. I simply could not stop turning the pages. The author covered some sensitive topics with sympathy and understanding. I loved the characters too. I had never heard of Rachel Dax until a friend recommended her book. I hope to read more from her soon.

L As In Love Book Two by Ruth Gogoll

2012-01-26T15:15:00.000Z

Warning Spoiler Alert. Read Book One Before Reading This Review.

This book continues where book one left off and is mainly focused on the lives of Carolin and Rebekka.

Carolin is still in her long distance relationship with Ina. But there are things about Ina that Carolin will find out when she takes an unexpected trip to Kassel to visit Ina. What will Carolin find? Will it be the end of their relationship?

Sabrina and Chris have separated. Sabrina is living with Anna. She is terribly unhappy. Will Sabrina stay with Anna or go back to Chris?

Rebekka can’t have the love she desires. She has an arrangement with Svenja. A friends with benefits arrangement. But is this enough? Svenja wants more, but certainly not out of love for Rebekka. Will Rebekka give in?

Rick helps Anita out after her affair with Marlene ends. They begin a mutual relationship even though neither of them loves the other. Rick is still carrying a torch for Melly. What will become of them?

Chris is still devastated by the end of her relationship with Sabrina. But how does Ina suddenly come in between Chris and Sabrina?

Melly’s sister, Silvia arrives on the scene to see Melly after a ten year absence. How does she know Marlene?

What happens when Anita and Anna meet again at a book fair?

Will Rebekka’s mother be successful in playing matchmaker between Carolin and Rebekka? What will happen when Carolin finds out the truth of who Rebekka really is?

These two books are a brilliant start to a promising new series. Book one doesn’t quite conclude, therefore it is essential to have book two ready to read. I am really looking forward to reading further books in this lovely series. I feel that I know these characters personally, I got totally lost in the story and both books had ended before I knew it. I’m really looking forward to book three in this series. It’s a real pleasure to read of the ups and downs of every day life with the surprises that crop up for these friends along the way.

These books are well written and the characters are just like a group of friends that any of us may have. This is what made these books so real for me. This could be a group of friends and the stories of their lives in the town any of us live in. As always with Ruth’s books, they are expertly translated from German.

L As In Love Book One by Ruth Gogoll

2012-01-26T15:12:00.002Z

This book is set in Cologne, Germany and it is a story of a group of friends that rendezvous from time to time at the Sappho Cafe.

The first book in this series focuses on the lives of a married couple, Sabrina and Chris.

Sabrina and Chris have been together for several years. They have spoken about having a baby together. Unfortunately, Chris is a workaholic. She is obsessed with making money so much so that she neglects Sabrina and their love life suffers.

When Chris decides to go away to Norway for a minimum of six weeks, possibly more to earn even more money, it is the final straw for Sabrina. Will it be the end of their relationship?

Sabrina and Chris are surrounded by their diverse group of friends. Friends who get together from time to time in the Sappho Cafe for drinks, coffee or dancing.

Marlene is sex mad and treats her women with contempt. Her latest conquest is shy and timid Anita. How long will Anita put up with Marlene’s chauvinistic ways?

There is Rick and her best friend Carolin. They’ve known each other since school. Rick is in love with Melly, who runs the Sappho Cafe. Her love is unrequited. Rick meanwhile dates Thea. But her heart isn’t in it. Will Melly change her mind and date Rick? Will Rick throw herself into the relationship with Thea?

Carolin is in a long distance relationship with Ina. She wants more though. Will Ina move to be with her?

Rebekka, a woman Carolin met by chance, appears to more than like Carolin. But Carolin is with Ina. Will Carolin allow anything to happen between her and Rebekka?

The writer Anna has designs on Sabrina, knowing full well she’s married to Chris. Will Sabrina succumb to Anna’s charms?

There are a lot of different characters in this book, but because they are gradually introduced it was easy to keep up with who is who.

The story tells of the lives and loves of a group of friends from all walks of life. But you can’t just stop at reading book one. Book two is a must and it follows directly on from book one. I feel that it is a good idea to purchase them both together and read them consecutively.

Golden Gate by Erin Jennifer Mar

2012-01-26T14:06:00.000Z

Maggie McKinnon is a junior reporter in San Francisco trying to make a name for herself. She is poking around at the scene of a warehouse fire when she meets Private Investigator, Julia Cassinelli. Maggie and Julia feel an immediate connection to each other. Although Maggie is a lesbian, she is inexperienced and Julia has been burned before by past love affairs.

When Maggie is given a break by her editor to report on a break in at an internet company called Netsports, she meets Julia again. Things begin to hot up for Maggie and Julia. Not just in the love department either. It soon becomes apparent that there is more to the break in than meets the eye. Julia gets beaten up in her office. Maggie is shot at at the scene of one of the warehouse fires. Maggie’s younger drug addict brother Patrick, appears on the scene and there are more attempts on both women’s lives. Somehow it seems that all these things are tied up, but how?

Will Maggie and Julia be able to find the answers? Will they have a relationship? Will they even be able to survive the attempts on their lives?

This book had several bad reviews among some good ones. I always like to make my own mind up about a book and decided to give this one a try. I really enjoyed it. It had a good strong storyline that kept me wanting to read faster to find out what happened. The two main characters really complimented each other and were further enhanced by a strong cast of supporting characters. Some nice and some not so nice. The romance between Maggie and Julia with their ups and downs added some nice spice to the story. Unfortunately, this looks to be Erin’s only book. Apart from some fan fiction, I can’t find anything else she’s written. This is a shame as I would like to see more from this author.

For The Love Of Miss Bard by P Crow

2012-01-26T14:02:00.001Z

When Alex Trout takes her daughter Samantha to kindergarten for the first time, she meets Kathryn Bard, who is to be Samantha’s teacher. Alex is immediately captivated by the beautiful Kathryn. Unknown to Alex, Kathryn is captivated too. But Alex feels she can’t follow up on her feelings, not with Samantha’s teacher. Kathryn is having exactly the same thoughts about the impossibility of dating a parent. Eventually though, the inevitable happens and the two women embark on a relationship they hope to keep hidden. Unfortunately, Kathryn has a stalker and they are found out. There is trouble ahead for Kathryn and Alex. Will their budding relationship survive?

The storyline in this book was quite enjoyable. Unfortunately the book had a number of inconsistencies and typos. I also found it rather disconcerting that there was no explanation as to why Alex even had a child.. Her previous relationships had all been the love them and leave them type. It’s a great pity about these things as the story had great potential.

Deadly Intersections by Ann Roberts

2012-01-26T14:00:00.000Z

Realtor Ari Adams discovers the body of businessman Warren Edgington in his car. She had seen Warren arguing with Stan Wetz just a short while before. Her detective girlfriend, Molly Nelson turns up to investigate the case, which at first glance, appears to be suicide. Not long after this, Ari becomes involved with finding a property for the business tycoon, Stan Wetz.. Is it just coincidence that Ari had seen Stan and Warren arguing?

Molly meanwhile finds herself investigating the shocking murder of a child. She is finding more questions than answers though. Ari’s estranged father comes to visit her hoping for a reconciliation. Then a former client of hers, Biz Stone, has a business proposition for her. Ari knows this will upset Molly, but goes ahead anyway.

Will Ari’s and Molly’s relationship survive amid all this turmoil? Add to this police corruption, greed and mystery, with no answers forthcoming and you have a time bomb just waiting to go off.

I love these little mysteries. They keep me guessing right up to the end. Plus they always leave a little something to look forward to in the next book.

Petra's Canvas by Ann Roberts

2012-01-26T13:57:00.000Z

Dani O’Grady, CEO of a large candy company, allowed her ex lover Petra to tattoo her body. The tattoos became an internet legend, except that nobody knows whose body the tattoos are on. Over the years, Dani has gone from lover to lover. Her personal life seems to be falling apart. Her son Liam has just married a money grabbing ex stripper and her previous exploits regarding an incident with a woman lover, has resulted in her being banned from entering Provincetown.

Dani meets a fascinating young woman, Cat, they have wild sex, then Dani finds out she is the adopted daughter of a half sister she never knew existed. Dani’s half sister Olivia, lives in Provincetown, Dani has to surreptitiously return there to meet with her. When Dani eventually gets to Provincetown, she discovers that Olivia has a will that entitles her to half of Dani’s company. Olivia intends to collect on this unless Dani persuades Cat to marry the man Olivia has lined up for her. Among all this turmoil, Dani meets Rafi, the owner of an upmarket candy store that her company does business with.

Will Dani and Rafi get together, or will Petra’s tattoo legacy come between them? It’s make up your mind time for Dani. What will she do?

I enjoyed this book which was fast paced and humorous in parts. The scenic settings made me just want to get right on down to Provincetown for a visit.

Like Lovers Do by Lori L Lake

2012-01-26T13:54:00.002Z

To all intents and purposes, Kennie McClain is a security guard at the Allen Arms. Unknown to all the tenants in the building, Kennie actually owns the Allen Arms. Kennie is still grieving from the loss of her life partner, Janeen ,of thirteen years, three years earlier. It was after Janeen’s death that Kennie, to escape her previous life, moved form New York to Portland for a fresh start. Kennie is gradually refurbishing the Allen Arms, while she tries to overcome her grief.

When Kennie meets Lily Gordon, a well known painter who lives in the penthouse flat at the Allen Arms, Kennie begins to think she may just be able to pull out of her deep dark despair. Lily has been dumped by her lover of four years, PJ. When Kennie and Lily get together, the chemistry between them is electrifying. Kennie is elated to find she can respond to someone again. But it all comes crashing down around her when Lily decides to give PJ another chance. Kennie is now left nursing a double broken heart. Will Kennie ever get over Lily’s betrayal to love again? How will she manage to live in the same building as Lily? How can she stand to see her each day?

Another winning book for Lori Lake. I found myself hoping that Kennie and Lily would somehow get back together. I really felt for Kennie. I loved the character of Max, the teenager that Kennie helped out. A story of love that showed me that blood family isn’t always as important as the family you choose for yourself.

Beautiful Game by Kate Christie

2012-01-26T13:51:00.003Z

It’s 1991 and Camille Wallace, (Cam) is a soccer player on a scholarship at San Diego University. Life is good for Cam and her future looks bright. She is doing well, has lots of gay friends and a best friend, Holly, that she hangs out with when Holly isn’t with her girlfriend Becca.

When Cam meets star tennis player, Jess Maxwell, she doesn’t see anything beyond the possibility of friendship and that’s only ‘maybe’. Over the course of time, Cam and Jess do become friends and Cam begins to fall in love with Jess, but doesn’t think she stands a chance and keeps her feelings to herself. Cam is all too aware that Jess can be withdrawn and seemingly stand offish, but she has no idea that Jess is holding in a terrible secret. A secret that could completely destroy her life and everything she’s worked for.

Meanwhile Cam and Jess go on being just good friends, concentrating on their respective soccer and tennis and studying together. With Cam still hankering after the seemingly untouchable Jess.

Their comfortable friendly existence takes a turn for the worse when Jess thinks that Cam is dating someone. Why is Jess so bothered about Cam dating someone? Will Jess listen to Cam’s side of the story? Will Jess finally confide in Cam and tell her secret? What will happen to their friendship, let alone any chance of a relationship? Will Jess be able to come to terms with the past and let go of it to have a future?

Another winning title from Kate. A page turner from the very beginning. I loved the two main characters and there is some really lovely supporting characters that add to the story too. Although this book title is Beautiful Game and gives the impression it is all about soccer, it is not. The story revolves around soccer and tennis, but there is so much more to it. Much more than a romance too. The character of Jess and the secret she is hiding has been written about with sensitivity and understanding in a totally acceptable and believable way. I have to admit, I’m not ‘into’ sports, but I loved this book as the sports aspect is not overwhelming. Plus I could understand and relate to the descriptions of the games. So, don’t let that put anyone off. There is plenty for sports fans too. A happy medium. Now, I have to ask, how long do I have to wait for your next book Kate?

Tats by Layce Gardner

2012-01-26T13:49:00.002Z

Lee Hammond has just about had enough of her stripper girlfriend Ginger. She borrows Ginger’s Harley and goes for a ride to think things through. She ends up sheltering from a thunderstorm in a cemetery and gate crashing a funeral.It’s here that Lee meets up with Vivian Baxter, an ex cheerleader from her past. Lee and Vivian ride off together and end up in the bar where Lee’s girlfriend, Ginger, works. Ginger shows up to claim her Harley back, deliver Lee’s car and to break her nose! Lee and Viv hang out together amid much hilarity and Lee discovers that Viv is on the run from some men after stealing some money. Lee has always had a fancy for Viv, but Viv is straight. But you never know, just maybe Viv can be persuaded to change teams.

If you want a book for a light hearted read and a good laugh to escape reality, you won’t get much better than Tats. There is a laugh on almost every page. Just don’t read it in public, you may be carried off! Being a Brit, I don’t always ‘get’ American humor, but this is so funny, I’m still grinning just thinking about it.

A Near Myth Murder by Kate Sweeney

2012-01-22T14:49:00.001Z

Kate Ryan is back. She has been persuaded to re-open her P.I business after an absence of over six years. Maureen Costello has talked Kate in to being her mentor. So, the P.I business of Ryan, Costello and Winfield is formed. Yes, that’s right, you did read that right the first time..........Winfield. Meaning both Aunt Hannah and Maggie are now in the P.I Business too. No wonder Kate is feeling her sanity is going to be tested to the limits.

When Kate’s old college roommate and friend dies unexpectedly while hiking with her sorority sisters, everyone is shocked at what at first appears to be a tragic accident. But there are things regarding Jan’s death that are not all they seem to be. Hence Ryan, Costello and Winfield have their first case to investigate.

Kate half heartedly agrees to attend the reunion at her old College, Hillcrest. Jan had always wanted Kate to attend, so now she will in the hope of finding some answers to how Jan died.

Kate meets up with some of her old friends, also with some of Jan’s sorority sisters. She also finds the weekend to be a trifle more exciting than she envisaged.

Will Kate find Jan’s death to be murder? Or is it just what it seems, a terrible accident? For those who have read the Kate Ryan mysteries before, you will know that nothing is straight forward in Kate’s life.

I absolutely adore this series. I love Kate, I find her antics hilarious. Her long suffering lover Maggie has a lot to contend with. Aunt Hannah is now taking an active part in the P.I business, this alone had me grinning from ear to ear. With Maureen Costello thrown in to the mix, you couldn’t ask for more.

Kate Sweeney writes these characters with such a wonderful sense of humor, while keeping the serious side of the mystery part of the story right where it should be. This is what makes this book a page turner from the first page through to the last. She has kept the perfect balance between mystery, romance and humor. When I buy a Kate Ryan mystery, I know I’m in for a nail biting romantic fun read. Kate Sweeney is the perfect story teller.

This whole series would make an absolutely brilliant film or TV series. Now I have to ask, when is the next Kate Ryan due out?

Firestorm by Radclyffe

2012-01-20T16:49:00.004Z

Mallory James, (Ice) is a firefighter/paramedic in charge of a unit of smokejumpers. Their job entails parachuting into remote forest areas and to deal with raging fires in any way they can. They all live and work together as a team. Mallory is the boss and has a small group of rookies to train for the next four weeks. Mallory thinks she has everything in hand until she sees a new name added to her list of rookies.

Jac Russo, hotshot and with an unsavory ‘reputation’ has been included into the smokejumpers training course at the last minute due to her Senator father’s intervention. She does have the qualifications to do the job, but will she be given the chance to prove herself?

Mallory and Jac get off to a really bad beginning. But it’s not long until the sparks between them begin to fly, sparks that have nothing to do with firefighting.

Will Ice melt into Jac’s embrace? Or will she fight the raging fire within herself? Will Jac be able to prove she is worthy of a relationship with Mallory? Both women have reasons not to pursue a relationship, but will they listen to their hearts?

Although I enjoyed this book, I can’t help feeling that the story didn’t match up to the title. I was expecting this first responders book to be primarily about the job of the smokejumpers, plus the usual romance, of course. I was a bit disappointed that the situation involving Jac and her father was not resolved, I felt it would have added to the story too. Radclyffe usually ties up any loose ends. None the less, the story was good and the scenery settings were great. A worthwhile read.

Storms by Gerri Hill

2012-01-20T16:47:00.004Z

Carson Cartwright has been estranged from her father and four brothers for the twelve years following her mother’s death. She gets a phone call out of the blue from her twin brother, Chase. Their father is on his death bed and Chase urges Carson to return home for a reconciliation before it’s too late. Carson reluctantly returns to the Montana ranch she grew up on. On her return she finds that the ranch is rather run down and the brothers have been struggling to make ends meet. She also discovers that her brothers have hired consultant Kerry Elder to help them to turn their working ranch into a guest (dude) ranch.

Kerry has only just started her own business. She will do almost anything to win the contract, including flirting with Carson’s brother, Cody. Little does Kerry know at the time, it is not Cody who will take her eye, but Carson.

Kerry is confused by the feelings Carson brings out in her. She has always considered herself to be straight. Carson herself, although a confirmed lesbian, is frightened of her feelings for Kerry, she’s never actually been in love before.She’s always steered clear of commitment.

Will Carson let go and allow herself to fall in love? Will Kerry come to terms with falling in love with another woman? Will Carson reconcile with her father and forgive him? What will happen when Cody finds out the woman he intends to marry is smitten with Carson?

After a bit of a slow start, the story really picked up nicely. I like Gerri’s way of writing. The characters come to life on the page and the stories are always well written. This is a typical lesbian romance. What I would call a nice comfortable read.

Love Another Day by Regina Hanel

2012-01-20T16:45:00.001Z

Law Enforcement Park Ranger Samantha Takoda Tyler, (Sam) works at the Grand Teton National Park. She’s been doing the job for five years and she loves it. Her personal life is a different matter. Sam keeps on reliving a devastating loss from her past and suffers nightmares that therapy has failed to cure.

Halie Walker is a photojournalist for The Wild International. She has arrived at Grand Teton to do an article on the area.

Sam is called in to her chiefs office and given the task of taking Halie around the area. Sam is not pleased with her babysitting task and the two women initially do not get off to a good start.

As time passes, Sam and Halie find that they actually do enjoy each others company and begin to spend more time together.

Sam however, can’t allow herself to have a relationship with Halie. She can’t bring herself to talk about her past to Halie and explain why either.

When Sam’s ex lover shows an interest in Halie, the fragile relationship between Sam and Halie breaks down completely. When Sam eventually works through her demons and feels ready to talk to Halie, it may be too late. A helicopter in which Halie was travelling has crashed in the forest. Will Sam reach the crash site in time to save Halie? Will she get the chance to love again, the love she almost threw away?

This is Regina Hanel’s debut book. I really enjoyed the storyline, although I thought the book was a bit on the short side. Nice for an afternoon read though. The two main characters, Sam and Halie complimented each other. The story went beyond a romance and had a few diversions to provide some excitement. I don’t want to provide any spoilers here, but I thought that there was one storyline in Halie’s apartment that didn’t do anything to progress the overall story. It just seemed out of place. In fact, I kept looking for a follow up on it. But apart from that one small gripe, I thought this was an excellent first book and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Different Dress by Lori L Lake

2012-01-20T16:43:00.001Z

Kip Galvin is getting on with her life after splitting up with her ex lover Bren. She is still nursing a broken heart. Kip is a school teacher, who writes songs and sings in her spare time. When singer Lacey Leigh Jaxon gets rid of yet another opening act on her tour, Kip is asked to stand in. It’s a really big chance for her.

Jaime Esperanza is an electrician, come general dogs body with the tour. She deals with just about every job, including dealing with her ex lover, Lacey’s, tantrums.

Kip and Jaime hang out together, forming a comfortable friendship. It doesn’t take long for Kip to find out that Jaime and Lacey had been an item and that Jaime is still hung up on her. Which is a shame for Kip as she is falling in love with Jaime, big time.

Although Kip doesn’t get on with Lacey, she gets on really well with the rest of Lacey’s band and they play well together, much to Lacey’s disgust. As time passes, Lacey becomes more irrational and unmanageable. It eventually becomes apparent that Lacey’s problem is alcohol. She is fast spiralling out of control.

When Lacey hits rock bottom, she wants Jaime back. Will Jaime drop everything and go running back? What will happen to Jaime and Kip’s friendship? Will all this affect the tour? Will Kip stay around to find out?

This is not the first time I’ve read this book and it won’t be my last. It is the first time I’ve put my thoughts out about it though. As with all of Lori’s books, it drew me in from the very beginning. I love the two main characters, Kip and Jaime. I became so caught up in the story that I found myself wanting to slap Lacey and really shake Jaime. I’ve never been on a tour with a band, but now that I’ve read this book, I feel that I have experienced the pleasure. The book is extremely well written and I lost myself completely in the story. I was there with them all. The cast of supporting characters added a lot to this story. I can’t say enough wonderful things about this book. It’s a true delight and will always have a place on my book shelf.

Looking For Julie by Jackie Calhoun

2012-01-20T16:40:00.004Z

When university student Sam Thompson returned to see her shrink, Dr Julie Decker after a prolonged absence, she was informed she had moved away. On the way back from her office, Sam and her best friends, Jamie and Nita, were involved in an altercation with a truck driver, which unknown to them at the time, was going to have far reaching consequences. Sam’s problems all seem to arise because she has a crush on her roommate Nita Perez.

When Sam meets Karen McGregor at the university, the two girls begin an affair. But will this take Sam’s mind off of her crush on Nita?

Sam and her friend Jamie are being terrorized by the unknown truck driver. Jamie enlists the help of his Aunt Edie. When Edie comes to Madison to help Jamie and Sam, she also takes the opportunity to see Claire, a woman she is having an affair with.

Added into the mix, Edie is a skier and she skis with a woman called Jennifer. Jennifer seems to ‘like’ Edie. Woven into the story is the hunt for the elusive Julie.

This book hopped from one set of characters and their stories to to the next so much that I found it hard to keep up with it. The story is intense and once I sorted out who belonged where, I quite enjoyed it. Unfortunately I found the ending rather rushed. I love Jackie Calhoun’s books, but in my opinion, this is not one of her best.

The Other Mrs Champion by Brenda Adcock

2012-01-20T16:38:00.001Z

Fifty five year old Sarah Champion has a really great life. Her wife Kelley is an extremely successful business woman and they’ve been together for twenty five years. Sarah’s life as she knows it is about to come to an untimely end when Kelley suffers a massive stroke while away on business.

Sarah, her two grown up children from her previous marriage and Kelley’s attorney set off for Vancouver to be with Kelley as she lays in hospital on life support. When Sarah arrives at Kelley’s room, she sees an attractive auburn haired woman leaning over her. To Sarah’s horror she is informed the woman is Kelley’s wife. Sarah’s horror turns to disbelief when she learns that Kelley’s attorney, the person she considered her friend, knew about Kelley’s other wife.

Sarah is devastated. She just cannot come to terms with the fact that Kelley is a bigamist. Where will that leave Sarah? How can Sarah find the answers to explain the reasons why Kelley had two wives? Will she find the answers she is looking for from Pauline Champion, the other Mrs. Champion? Will Sarah and Pauline ever be able to become friends? Will Sarah and Pauline ever get over the fact that they have both been betrayed by the woman they loved? Will they fight the attraction they both feel between them for each other, or will they cave in to it?

Like all the rest of Brenda’s books, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It is certainly different and unusual. I found that I just could not put the book down, I had to know the outcome. The story left me feeling that good things can come from nasty situations. As always when I’ve finished a Brenda Adcock book, I eagerly await the next.

Entangled by Maria V Ciletti

2012-01-20T16:35:00.001Z

Seventeen year old Hayden Crissman has a huge crush on her former teacher, Abbey Spencer. When Hayden graduates from high school, she and her best friend Calli, both get summer jobs at a fun fair in the Erie area. While she is living there she bumps into Abbey again. Her attraction for Abbey is stronger than ever. Will Hayden act on it?

Abbey Spencer returns to Erie and her closeted life with her lover, Professor Ann White. On her return home, Abbey discovers that Ann is still seeing Jackson Price, a man she had previously told Abbey she had made a mistake in having sex with. Ann maintained she was just curious and Abbey forgave her at the time.

Abbey is devastated and distraught when Ann tells her she wants Abbey to move out of their home and that she is no longer a lesbian.

Ann White is a devious and manipulative liar who will stop at nothing to get tenure. Even if she destroys the lives of those around her.

As with all of Maria’s previous books, the story is extremely well written. The agony and the angst comes off the pages in waves, I could really feel the suffering the characters endured. I also felt myself becoming extremely angry for the way Abbey was treated. Ann’s devious behavior leads to a catalogue of disasters for Abbey and also Hayden, causing untold pain to them both.

Whilst the actual story was good, I was not happy that there is actually more hetero love scenes in the book than lesbian love scenes. This book was sold as a lesbian fiction book and I felt cheated. The reason I buy lesbian fiction rather than mainstream is because that is what I like. So, unfortunately this book was a big turn off for me, which is a great pity because I was a big fan of Maria’s.

Love At Last by Kate Sweeney

2012-01-20T16:34:00.000Z

49 year old Alana (Allie) Sanders’ life was at a crossroads. Her children were grown up and had left home. Allie had put her artistic career on hold when she married and devoted herself to her family and her home.

Allie and her husband Paul, had grown further and further apart over the years and the situation got worse after their children left home. Paul was a workaholic and Allie had time on her hands to think about her past and what she wants in her future.

When Allie meets out lesbian Toni O’Hara, a fifty year old Chicago fire inspector, she feels an immediate attraction and begins to question if the life she is leading is the life she should be leading.

Toni makes Allie happy, makes her laugh and becomes a good friend. She helps Allie through the trauma of realizing her marriage has failed.

Paul meanwhile, has been hiding a secret from Allie for years, which had Allie known at the time may have shaped her life differently. When Paul reveals all, will it alter the way Allie maps out her future? Will Allie find the courage to go for what she wants? Will Allie be able to experience true love at last?

As always with Kate’s books, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on my copy. This book was well worth the wait. A standalone romance, extremely well written with the usual laugh out loud Kate humor for good measure.

Both Allie and Kate are lovely characters, each striving for true love. They interact well together and there is a nice cast of supporting characters that fit right into place and add to the richness of the story.

We follow Allie through her realization that she may be a lesbian, how this will impact on her family, how she copes and how she finally comes out to her family. We also follow Toni through her anguish of what she is sure is going to be unrequited love for Allie.

This is not just a run of the mill romance, the story is one that will stay with me a long while and will be a definite re-read. Oh, just as an added bonus there are some really hot scene’s in it too. Kate really has excelled herself. But then I say that about all of Kate’s books.

Unchained Memories by Karen D Badger

2012-01-20T16:32:00.002Z

Cat O’Grady and Billie Charland are leading an idyllic life with their three children. Until the past rears it’s ugly head.

Cat receives an anonymous envelope in the mail. When she opens it, there are photo’s of Billie in a compromising situation. The catalogue of events that evolves from the moment the envelope is opened, could change Cat and Billie’s lives forever.

When Cat confronts Billie with the photo’s, Billie reacts in a way Cat never thought possible. Billie continues acting out of character, she’s also suffering from headaches and blackouts. Cat asks Billie to let her doctor father run some tests. The results of the tests are shocking. Cat has to make a decision that could result in tragic consequences or at the very least, ruin their entire lives.

Will Billie see that Cat had no choice? Or will Billie leave and take her biological son with her? Will Cat and Billie’s love survive this latest trauma in their lives? Will the suffering ever end for them?

Although this is the second book in the series, there is enough information to make this a standalone book. However, I would strongly advise you read the first in the series, which is In A Family Way. You will be missing out on a truly excellent book if you don’t.

I love Karen’s writing. The characters are heartfelt and warm. Cat and Billie are people I would love to have as my friends. They are made for each other, they are true soul mates.

There is a great cast of supporting characters, all adding to the story in their own rights and adding to the enjoyment of the book.

Although this book has a serious theme, there is also a great deal of humor too, which takes the edge off the angst and makes it a more comfortable read. A hard hitting story of family life, the difficulties of illness and how love can win through against all odds.

The third book in this series can’t be published quick enough. These books will always have a place on my shelves.

The Fix-it Girl by J.M Dragon

2012-01-18T13:26:00.003Z

Elise Ridge is a successful business woman and the head of her own company. She has little or no time for love and relaxation. Her life consists solely of work.

Jill Marrack has been Elise’s personal assistant for five years. Elise’s very own fix-it girl. Although Jill has worked for Elise for a long time, she has never got to know her boss in a personal capacity. That is, until Jill receives a call one evening to go to Elise’s home in the country to fix her latest problem. Jill’s sister Grace, needs someone to look after her six year old daughter Lily, at short notice, while she leaves the country for work. On the spur of the moment, Jill offers to move to Headridge, Elise’s family home, temporarily, to take care of Lily.

When Jill meets the rest of Elise’s family, she wonders if she has done the right thing. But Jill finds herself loving little Lily, who has been starved of affection, so she stays on and arranges to take Lily to her parents home in Cornwall for a break.

On their return back to Headridge, Elise and Jill begin to get to know one another on a personal basis. When Elise notices how well Jill and Lily are getting on, she begins to think that there is more to life than just work.

Elise is attracted to Jill and begins to wonder at the possibility of there being something more between them. Jill herself is feeling a similar attraction, but she has been badly hurt in the past. Can Jill allow herself to trust and love again? Will Elise find the time from her work for a relationship?

Then there are outside influences that seem to stack up against Elise and Jill having a relationship.. Will they allow interference in their lives? Or will they trust each other?

Right from the very first page of this book I felt the lure of exciting things to come. I was not disappointed. This story is not a run of the mill lesbian romance, it is so much more. The two main characters, Elise and Jill, are both vulnerable in their own different ways.

Elise is the head of a dysfunctional family. One family member will stop at nothing with their conniving, lies and deceptions to ensure that Elise and Jill’s new relationship comes to an end.

There are many other characters throughout this book. Each and every one helps to enhance and progress the story.

The story is full of twists and turns that had me turning the pages really quickly to get to the end, causing an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions. Of course the ending came far too quickly, I simply had to go back and re-read this book over again.

I am hoping there will be a sequel to this book. The characters have a lot more to say. The story simply cannot end here. Please, please, please write more J.M Dragon.

Half To Death by Robin Alexander

2012-01-17T09:08:00.000Z

After Sloan Hawkins suffered a near death experience, her life as she knew it was never going to be the same again. For months Sloan almost drove herself insane hiding a secret so bizarre, she thought nobody would ever believe her. When Sloan finally confides in her best friend Miranda, she begins to regain her grip on her sanity once again and sees that her life maybe able to return to some semblance of normality.

Corrine Verner, (Jade) is a trainer at the gym where Sloan and Miranda work out. Sloan finds Jade attractive as soon as she meets her, but thinks she is too perfect and untouchable.

Jade herself, is hiding a secret from her past and considers herself to be unworthy of a relationship with anyone.

Will Sloan be able to resolve her issues to be able to move on with her life? Will Jade learn to trust Sloan and begin to live her life instead of just existing?

An enjoyable romance with a difference. The two main characters, Sloan and Jade, are both hiding secrets, making for a rocky beginning to a friendship, without putting a relationship into the mix. They are supported by a strong group of friends, some of whom have their own problems, which adds more to the story. But their deep friendship shines through. Another winner for Robin. The thing I like about Robin’s books, is the story lines are always so different. But there is always sweet romance.

Cool Side Of The Pillow by Gill McKnight

2012-01-17T09:05:00.005Z

Clara Dearheart is an undertaker, but not just any run of the mill undertaker. Clara takes care of the dead and their families. But she also sees and talks to the dead. That is, all the dead except her dead partner Frances. When Frances died, she never appeared to Clara. Clara is at a loss to understand why Frances hasn’t visited her and she can’t move on with her life.

Bebe Franklin is a scriptwriter for a really bad TV soap series. She returns to Preston to look after her Aunt Arlene’s house and her deceased grandmothers parrot, Darling, while her aunt is away. When Bebe meets Clara, she feels an attraction for her and can’t understand why Clara rebuffs her every move. She has no idea that Clara is holding on to the past and her dead lover, Frances. Bebe doesn’t stand a chance.

When strange things begin to happen in Aunt Arlene’s house, Bebe begins to think it may be haunted. She is at her wits end.

Will Clara give up waiting for Frances to appear? Will Bebe get through to Clara? What will happen when Bebe discovers Clara sees and talks to the dead?

An extremely funny laugh out loud book, also with a serious side to it. The antics of the parrot, Darling alone had me curled up with laughter. A cast of characters that meshed well. The dead and the living really worked in well together. I think this is Gill’s best ever book yet. Definitely one to re-read.

The Best Defense by Carsen Taite

2012-01-17T09:03:00.003Z

Ex homicide detective, Skye Keaton’s life has taken a spiral downwards. Since her forced resignation, she’s just drinking and womanizing her life away. Her father finds her a two bit job in a security company. Skye is really at rock bottom. Then an old friend of hers, ex cop, now attorney, Parker Casey, comes to her rescue. Parker and her law partner wife, Morgan Bradley, need a private investigator and Skye fits the bill.

Aimee Howard, real estate broker has had her home and office turned over by a team of Federal Agents looking for her niece Nicki. She hires Parker and Morgan to find out why Nicki is a wanted person.

When Aimee and Skye meet, Aimee is not happy to find out that she will be the PI on the investigation. Aimee decides that she will have to help the case along and joins a very reluctant Skye in Austin.

Aimee is very attracted to Skye and has been since she first saw her in a bar weeks before and tries her best to get Skye to notice her in a romantic way. Skye however, wants to keep their association on a professional level. Although she more than likes Aimee, she is all too aware that their lifestyles are very different.

Will Skye allow herself to see that she is worthy of Aimee? Will Aimee have to forgo her lavish lifestyle to get to know Skye? Why are the Feds looking for Nicki? Will Skye and Aimee find Nicki before the Feds do? These and many more questions are answered in this brilliant crime story.

This is another crime busting winner from Carsen. This book is an absolute page turner from start to finish. Some of the characters have appeared in Carsen’s previous books, which is a plus to have familiar loved characters. But the story is totally complete and stand alone.

It would be really great to see these characters as part of a crime series. Hello Carsen...........PLEASE.

Faithful Service Silent Hearts by Lynette Mae

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000Z

Devon James has not had a good childhood. She suffered abuse from her alcoholic mother, which got worse after Devon admitted she was gay.. Devon joined the army to escape and with the hopes of improving her life. At the end of boot camp training, Devon was recommended for officer training. Devon meets and falls in love with Jillian, the woman of her dreams. Unfortunately the CID (Criminal Investigations Division) have Jillian on their radar. Both Devon and Jillian’s careers are at risk as the CID begins a witch hunt against them and their friends. Circumstances cause Devon to lose the woman she loves and she throws herself into moving on with her career.

Devon is posted to the middle east, where she suffers a tragic loss and is injured herself. On her return stateside to recover, Devon discovers the CID are still determined to oust her from her exemplary career. They will stop at nothing, even telling lies and trumping up evidence. It doesn’t even matter that Devon is a highly decorated, officer and a brilliant leader.

Will the CID get the evidence against Devon? Will Devon ever find the love she so badly needs?

A riveting, nail biting story I simply couldn’t put down. This book fired up so many emotions for me. The character Devon, will stay with me for a long time. The anger I felt at the CID knocked me sideways. Only a well written story could bring these feelings out in me. I honestly felt as though I was there with Devon every step of the way.

I served in the military in the early 1970’s, in a different country from where this book is set. But no one would know the difference between the way the two armed forces conducted their witch hunts. The behaviour of the CID is so accurate, it caused shivers down my spine.

Well done Lynette Mae, this is a brilliant debut book.. I look forward to reading more from you in the very near future.

Getting There by Lyn Denison

2012-01-17T08:57:00.001Z

Kat Oldfield has two failed relationships and now she considers herself to be a complete failure. She is estranged from her family and since she broke up with her partner of ten years, Shael, she is living alone in a dingy apartment. Kat’s best friend Mary Margaret, (Em) talks her into moving into a house she inherited from her ex lover, Ruth. Kat is reluctant to do this though. The house is in dire need of repair and is also right near where her parents live. Kat decides she can’t go on the way things are, so she makes the decision to move into the house and to begin the renovations herself. She won’t go any where near her old family home though. Kat soon realizes she is going to need professional help with some of the repairs and hires a company of builders, where she meets Jess. Right away Kat feels she likes Jess more than she should and tries to keep her distance. After all, Jess is straight, isn’t she?

When Meggie, Shael’s daughter comes to stay with Kat, they meet up with Jess and her family.Meggie and Miranda, Jess’s daughter get on really well together and Kat feels her attraction for Jess growing stronger.

Will Kat give into her desires and chance being rebuffed by Jess?

I love Lyn’s writing and have done for years. This is the first book Lyn’s published in a long time. It didn’t disappoint. It was like coming home for me. The familiar writing was a true pleasure. I love the two main characters, Kat and Jess. This is more than just a simple romance, the story has a nice twist to it. This will join the rest of Lyn’s books on my shelves to be re-read.

The Indelible Heart by Marianne K. Martin

2012-01-17T08:52:00.000Z

Sharon Davis is still only just about coping with her life ten years after the murder of her friends, Evonne and Donna at the hands of Charlie Crawford. Sharon’s life changed drastically after their deaths. She fought for justice for them, but her life spiralled out of control and she turned to alcohol just to get her through the traumatic experience. Her reliance on alcohol cost her her relationship with her partner Laura. Laura couldn’t cope with the similarities between Sharon’s drinking and how her father’s drinking had affected their family.

Sharon was helped to cope with Laura’s departure by her best friend Kasey and their other close friends. Sharon finally manages to get her life mostly in control until she hears that Charlie Crawford is dying and his family are seeking an early release. Sharon is devastated and consumed with renewed hatred. She can’t forgive Charlie Crawford and once again turns to alcohol. Before Sharon gets too far out of control, help arrives in the form of a tiny bundle of fur, a dog named Abby. The turning point for Sharon came when Abby got knocked down by a truck. She had to stay sober to look after her.

Unknown to Sharon, her ex lover Laura has returned to the area to care for her mother.

Will there be a chance Laura will take Sharon back? It’s obvious they still love one another. But will that be enough? Will Sharon ever be able to let go of her hatred and forgive Charlie?

This is another wonderful book from Marianne. The story is well written and right from the beginning I knew I wouldn’t be able to put it down until I’d finished it.

There is so much in this book. Much more than a romance. Hate, depression, anger, alcoholism, loss of love, courage, love, romance to name but some of the topics. All written with sympathy and understanding.

It’s great to see characters from previous books back too, especially Sage and Deanna.

Although this book is a sequel, Marianne has artfully written it so that there is no need to have read Love In The Balance first. But I would most strongly urge you to do so. You will be missing another wonderful book if you don’t. In my honest opinion, we don’t get enough works from Marianne and when a new book does come out, it has to be savored and read slowly. This will join the rest of Marianne’s excellent books on my shelves to be re-read again and again.

Hidden Truths by Jae

2012-01-17T08:50:00.001Z

The story began in Backwards To Oregon, with Luke and Nora beginning a new life together. Now it continues with their two daughters grown up and finding their own way in their lives.

Luke and Nora Hamilton along with their daughters Amy and Nattie are now living on a ranch in Oregon. They are like many other families during the 1860’s. Hard working to survive the harshness of the west. There is one big difference between the Hamilton’s and other families that could result in the family being run out of the area or even death if it is discovered. Luke is a woman.

When mail order bride Rika arrives on the ranch to marry their foreman, Phin, life for the Hamilton’s changes in so many ways. Rika is hiding her own secret from Phin and the Hamilton’s. Luke and Nora have hidden the truth about Luke for years. Their daughter, Amy, is hiding her own secret from her family. Nattie, their youngest daughter is also hiding a secret.

What happens if all these hidden truths are revealed? Will Luke and Nora’s secret be exposed? Will Amy and Nattie reveal their secrets? Will Rika tell Phin and the Hamilton’s the truth? Will life for the Hamilton family ever be the same?

A gripping blockbuster of a western saga. Well written and the story well told. A page turner from start to finish.

Although this book is long, it still wasn’t long enough for me. I love the Hamilton family, their friends and their way of life and the time period the story is set in. Each page just sucked me further into the wild west. The fact that this western contained romance too, was just the icing on the cake for me. I would love to see at least one more book with the Hamilton’s, more if possible. Although this book is a sequel, it has enough information that you can catch up with the story without reading Backwards To Oregon first. But I would recommend you read it first or you will miss out on another wonderful book. Another one for my re-read shelf.

Waiting In The Wings by Melissa Brayden

2012-01-17T08:49:00.000Z

All Jenna McGovern has ever wanted to be is an actress. Her whole life has been centred around training to go on the stage. She gets her big break right after she graduates. She auditions for a part in Clean Slate, a stage show that is currently touring the country. When Jenna discovers her long time idol, Adrienne Kenyon is playing the lead role, she is beyond elated.

Jenna is soon up on stage, acting really well and is a popular member of the cast. Most importantly though, the audience love her.

Jenna and Adrienne find they get on very well together both on and off stage. It’s not long before Jenna and Adrienne begin a romantic relationship. This works out fine all the time they are acting together in the same show. But what will happen when the show ends? Will Jenna give up on her dream of an acting career to pursue a relationship with Adrienne? Or will she put her career first before happiness?

This is a terrific debut book from Melissa. A great story which goes far beyond the usual, ‘girl meets girl, loses girl and gets girl back'.’ The settings are Broadway and Hollywood on both stage and film sets. What makes this more interesting is the time span. The story takes place over several years. Somehow Melissa has cleverly written this so that it seamlessly follows on. I love the two main characters and the book has a strong cast of equally lovable supporting characters, which enhances the story. Oh and it didn’t hurt that the book was smoking hot in parts either. All tastefully written to further the story.

I would never have known this was Melissa’s first book. The writing is superb. A real page turner. I’m looking forward to reading more from Melissa in the near future. A definite keeper for my re-read shelf.

Sterling Road Blues by Ruth Perkinson

2012-01-17T08:47:00.001Z

Special needs teacher, Carrie Tomlinson’s life is on a downward spiral. She is fast losing control. She is still grieving from the loss of her lover, is drinking far too much and hasn’t got much control over her pupils either.

Audra Malone is Carrie’s best friend. Always around to pick up the pieces when Carrie is hung over or getting dumped by one of her endless stream of women.

One day life at Sterling Road High School changes forever. The day when special needs student Elizabeth announces over the school loud speaker system that she wants to marry fellow special needs pupil Melissa.

The school is divided. Half of the school backs Elizabeth and Melissa, the other half is against such a union.

Audra tries her best to protect her vulnerable pupils from the fall out. But Carrie is busy trying to get her own life in order. That is until an event in her life changes her outlook forever.

A nicely written, humorous look at life in a high school. I couldn’t help loving Elizabeth and Melissa. Two students loving one another with an innocence that really puts life into perspective. I think this is Ruth’s best book yet.

Forbidden Passions by MJ Williamz

2012-01-17T08:46:00.001Z

Corrine Staples works in a mans world, dresses the part and also loves women. When her best friend Della is having problems with her plantation records, Corrine travels to New Orleans from Baton Rouge to put her book keeping skills to use and help her out. On her arrival there, Corrine discovers that Della’s daughter Katie is no longer the little girl she used to carry around on her shoulders. She’s grown into a desirable nineteen year old beauty. Can Corrine do the right and honorable thing and ignore her growing passion for the young girl? Or will she give into the forbidden passion she feels? If Corrine gives into her lust, it could be the end of her friendship with Della.

Katie Prentiss is a feisty young woman. Well used to having her own way. She is determined to have her way with the delectable older Corrine. Katie has out grown the loveless sex she has been having with her maid servant. She is ready for more. She is ready for love. Katie tries every trick she knows to seduce Corrine, will she succeed?

A most enjoyable bodice ripper set on a plantation in New Orleans before the civil war. Although the book is erotica, the story is well written and the balance of story and erotica is, in my opinion, just right. The story deals tastefully with quite a few different issues. A May/December romance, illness and grief. I thought both Corrine and Katie’s characters were great. I couldn’t help myself hoping they would eventually get together. A great book to curl up with on a cold winter evening.

Three Days by L.T. Marie

2012-01-17T08:44:00.002Z

A very reluctant Dakota Riley arrives in Las Vegas. Her best friend Riann is getting married and having her bachelorette party there. Dakota is not looking forward to spending three days in the company of a bunch of women she doesn’t get on with. The heat alone is enough to get on Dakota’s last nerve. The only thing playgirl Dakota is looking for is some down time and mind blowing sex with some beautiful women. That is, until the arrival of Riann’s cousin, Shawn. Dakota’s life as she knows it will never be the same again.

Shawn Camello is a last minute addition to Riann’s bachelorette party. She really does not want to be in Las Vegas. She is only there because of Riann’s request that she wants to reconnect with her after a twenty five year separation.

As soon as Shawn meets Dakota, she knows she is in big trouble. The attraction she feels for player Dakota is dangerous. She could lose her heart so easily. Shawn must avoid Dakota at all costs. This is not easy, every time Shawn turns round, Dakota is there.

Will Dakota win Shawn round? Will Shawn give in to her desires and risk a broken heart?

An excellent, well written and hot, steaming hot, debut book, full of love and desire. The heat radiates off the pages. Both Dakota and Shawn the main characters are great in their own ways. The chemistry between them sizzles and is there from the moment they meet. They just have to allow themselves to take a chance.

This book is short, but there is so much packed into it. It is a true delight to read. I was sorry when I came to the end. I look forward to reading more from this author, hopefully very soon.

L.A. Metro by RJ Nolan

2012-01-17T08:43:00.000Z

Dr Kim Donovan’s life is in a real mess. After an incident at work brings her medical ethics in to question and she refuses to back down, her family and her lover, ER Chief Anna cast her aside. Kim decides that she has no choice but to totally change her life and secures a post at LA Metropolitan Hospital in California.

Standoffish Chief of the ER at LA Metro, Dr Jess McKenna is immediately attracted to Kim. But she can’t allow herself to act on her attraction. She is hiding too many secrets from her past. She is already the gossip of the hospital thanks to her ex lover, Myra.

Kim meanwhile is also attracted to Jess. Kim is carrying around her own baggage from her past though.

Jess and Kim decide they like each other too much not to be together, so they become firm friends. Will either woman be able to let go of their pasts to have the chance of becoming more than friends, a chance to have a future together? Or will the past forever keep them from happiness?

I love RJ’s books. This book is well written with a touch of humor and sympathy for the issues covered. As always with RJ’s books, I was into the story from the very first page. I love the characters, Jess and Kim. Two strong, efficient women at work, but extremely vulnerable when it comes to love and friendship. The cracks are so deep, they threaten to shatter each woman. Piece by small piece these cracks have to be repaired to allow each of them to move on. I hope there will be another RJ Nolan book out soon.

Harmony by Karis Walsh

2012-01-17T08:41:00.003Z

Andrea (Andy) Taylor is the type of woman who wants a quiet and peaceful life. It doesn’t matter at what cost to her personal life though. She gives into her family, friends and even her lovers to have peace. She is almost obsessive in her need for order, everything must always be in it’s rightful place. That is until she meets Brooke Stanton and Brooke turns Andy’s well ordered life upside down.

Brooke has hired the string quartet that Andy plays in, to play at her wedding rehearsal dinner. The last thing Brooke expected was to feel an attraction for another woman, or was it?

Brooke’s mind is in a turmoil, what can she do? She is attracted to Andy. She can’t ignore her desires, but can she pursue them? Can she leave everything in her life behind to take a chance on love with Andy? Both Brooke and Andy have to make choices, what will they do?

This is a debut book, but most certainly doesn’t seem like it. The book is very well written, the characters are really well formed and presented and there is a terrific cast of supporting characters to further the story along and enhance it.

This is a tender romance and I couldn’t help but love the characters, so much so, that I wanted to give them a nudge at times to push them together.

I look forward to reading more from Karis. I can’t wait to see how she is going to top this book as it is excellent.

Taken By Surprise by Kenna White

2012-01-17T08:40:00.003Z

Workaholic Corporate Lawyer, Leigh Insley, is finally taking a well deserved break. She heads off to her cabin in Aspen. She intends to sell the place as she never gets the time to visit. On her way there, she gets stranded in a snow storm. It’s here she meets snow plow driver Margo Tosch when she comes to Leigh’s rescue.

Margo Tosch is also a ski instructor and store owner among other things. Margo works hard to make a living for herself and her six year old daughter, Lindsey.

At first Leigh thinks Margo is a rough and rustic mountain woman. As Leigh gets to know Margo better, it becomes apparent they have a mutual attraction.

Will Leigh allow herself to get involved with Margo? Margo is hiding a secret, which once divulged could end their fledgling relationship. Will Margo walk away while her secret is safe? What will Leigh do if Margo’s secret comes out?

Another enjoyable romance from Kenna. I love the two characters, Leigh and Margo, also Lindsey, Margo’s daughter. I would have liked to know how life turned out for them all. A nice book to curl up with on a winter evening.

The Wedding Party by Tracey Richardson

2012-01-17T08:38:00.001Z

Dani is on the verge of marrying the love of her life, Shannon. She has planned a no expenses spared wedding in Vegas. No cost is too much to lavish on her bride to be and their guests. There is one problem though, Dani is hiding a secret from her bride to be. A secret that could mean the wedding is off.

Shannon is in seventh heaven, she is about to marry her lover of six years, Dani. Unfortunately all is not as it seems with Shannon. She has a secret that is eating away at her. A secret that when it comes out, as it must, could put an end to the love between Dani and herself.

Claire, a doctor and Shannon’s best friend, has been alone since the death of her lover Ann, three years earlier. Her life has been on hold grieving for her lost lover. She goes to Vegas, only because she can’t not be at her friend’s wedding. Once there, Claire finds a love that she isn’t sure she can accept, for several reasons.

Amanda, Shannon’s niece, is hiding a huge secret from her aunt. One that she knows must come out. Whilst in Vegas, Amanda finds love again, but will her love be reciprocated?

Jordan, Dani’s best friend. Her love ‘em and leave ‘em way of life over the years has resulted in her leaving a trail of broken hearts in her wake. She is a player. That is until she meets Dez in Vegas. Then the tables are turned. Jordan falls for Dez, only to get a taste of her own medicine when she is dumped. Will Jordan be able to change Dez’s mind?

All these secrets waiting to come out. All these secrets that could destroy lives. What will happen to those in the wedding party?

This is a truly fabulous book. Each of these characters has a story to tell. I couldn’t put this book down. The book is a mixture of happy and sad, but the happiness shines through. The anguish felt by each character was superbly written. The cast of supporting characters throughout each helped in enhancing the story. It would be great to have a sequel or at the very least, meet some of the characters again in another book.

96 Hours by Georgia Beers

2012-01-17T08:37:00.000Z

Scientist Erica Ryan is flying home to the USA after an unsuccessful business trip to London. She isn’t in the best of moods, all she wants to do is to get home and sleep in her own bed.

Abby Hayes is flying to New York City to spend a few days with her mother before flying off to visit friends in San Francisco.

Neither women will reach their destinations. Their plane has been diverted to Gander, Canada following the closure of USA airspace due to the tragic events of 9/11.

Standoffish Erica first notices Abby in the airport before their departure. She wasn’t enamoured with Abby’s flighty friendly happy go lucky ways.

When Erica and Abby find themselves thrown together in Gander for 96 hours, initially Erica is not happy. But then both women find themselves feeling attracted to one another.

Will Erica and Abby act on their attraction? Will they even remain friends when they return to their everyday lives? Or are their feelings caused by the tidal wave of emotions felt due to the devastation of 9/11?

Although this book is a fictional romance, it has obviously been well researched and is based on stories following the horrendous events of 9/11. An event, although happening on USA soil affected the whole world in many ways.

This is not just a romance. There is a lot of heartfelt emotion and feeling in this book. It is a story of how kind people can be and how they will rally together in times of great need. A story told with compassion. A story of personal conflict and personal change. A story of how love can come from the deepest despair and the disastrous events of 9/11.

The characters Erica and Abby couldn’t be more different, but opposites do attract. There is a fantastic cast of supporting characters, each and every one of them essential to the story, which moves along smoothly and quickly. My one wish would have been for a longer book. I really didn’t want this book to end. Another winner for Georgia Beers.

Callie's Dilemma by Vicki Stevenson

2012-01-17T08:35:00.003Z

Closeted queen of straight romance, Callie Delaney is attending a convention for authors and fans of chick lit. While Callie is there she meets fitness instructor Dale Kirby. Callie immediately begins to feel an attraction towards Dale. But Callie’s contract forbids her to be in an open lesbian relationship. It will mean the end of her successful mainstream writing career.

Callie is unfortunate to witness what could have been a murderer making preparations to eliminate a person in one of the other conventions in the hotel. Although Callie is unaware of the significance of what she walked in to at the time. The killer however is fully aware that Callie has witnessed his actions and he goes after her to eliminate her.

Dale’s extended family of gay friends all rally round to help solve the mystery of why Callie is being stalked and to keep her safe from harm.

Meanwhile the attraction between Callie and Dale grows stronger each day. Will they give in to their feelings? Will Callie give up her career for the chance of love with Dale?

I really enjoyed this book. It is a well written combination of mystery and romance, a page turner, that me hooked in from the first page and held me through to the last. I love the way Callie and Dale interact. There are some much loved characters from the ‘Family’ series making an appearance too. But this book is a standalone story and it is not at all necessary to read the family series first. However, I would highly recommend them, purely for enjoyment, I loved the whole series.

All in all, this is a nice read, a book that I was sorry to come to the end of. I hope to see more from Vicki in the very near future.

Two On The Aisle by Robbi McCoy

2012-01-17T08:34:00.002Z

Undercover food critic, Eno Threlkeld, real name, Wren Landry, has left San Francisco for a vacation in Ashland, Oregon. She is visiting her brother, Raven. Raven is playing Beatrice in the play Much Ado About Nothing.

Wren hasn’t had much luck with women. She always seems to attract the weird sort. When her latest date maintained she was from another planet, Wren had been glad she was going to Ashland.

Goatherd and cheese maker, Sophie Ward met Wren while she was in town selling her cheese. The two women hit it off right away and spend the night making wild passionate love. Wren was in heaven, she thought at last she had found the perfect woman. Sophie left the next morning though without leaving her phone number.

What happens next can only be described by me as a complete fun filled book, full of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, love and laughter. A true comedy of errors.

When the villain of the story, John Batard decides to find and unmask Eno Threlkeld, he bites off more than he can chew. What will happen next?

Amidst all the hilarity and on a more serious note, will Wren and Sophie ever find the truth and get past the total misunderstandings to find the love they both deserve?

An excellent, well written, laugh out loud book. I have to admit, when I saw Shakespeare being quoted, I thought, ‘oh no, not my scene’. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. There is much more to this book than Shakespeare. Although I’m British and I don’t always ‘get’ the American sense of humor, I found the book so funny and the story just flows along. This is so very different to anything Robbi has written before. The one thing that is the same though, is the quality of the writing and the excellence of the story telling. The characters are superb. The whole book reminded me of going to the theater and watching a play. I could almost smell the goats and taste the cheese.

Another winner for Robbi and on my re-read shelf.

Survived By Her Longtime Companion by Chris Paynter

2012-01-16T14:33:00.000Z

Bailey Hampton’s life has not been going too well. Her partner of nine years, Chelsea Parker, had walked out on her eleven months earlier. She moved from their home in Denver to Bloomington, Indiana. Neither Bailey or Chelsea cheated or had anyone else in their sights. They would both tell that their split was because they grew apart.

When Bailey is asked to go to Bloomington to interview Eleanor Burnett, (Ellie) longtime companion to the recently deceased movie star Daphne DeMonet, she at first refuses. It would be too painful to bump into Chelsea. Bailey is finally persuaded to take the assignment by top biographer and her friend, Joanne.

When Bailey discovers that Ellie has arranged the interviews to take place with her ex partner Chelsea, Bailey is devastated. How will she cope sitting there with Chelsea, with all the memories of their lost love flooding back when she still loves her?

The meeting is just as hard for Chelsea. Her love for Bailey has never died. It seems neither woman has been able to move on from their pasts.

Ellie is a canny old woman. She realizes there is a past between Bailey and Chelsea and she soon has both women admitting to their faults and failures and what went wrong in their relationship. Who was interviewing who here?

Ellie sets up a series of meetings where she has Bailey and Chelsea taking turns to read her old diaries containing the private lives of her and Daphne, spanning back over their sixty years together.

Ellie is hoping that Bailey and Chelsea will see the similarities between their lives and learn from the mistakes that her and Daphne had made.

Will Bailey and Chelsea know what Ellie is doing? Will they take on board the precious gift being given by Ellie? Or will it be too late for them to repair their relationship? They love one another, but is love enough?

First of all I have to say, this book is great. The story is well written and Chris has, in my opinion, done a lot of research. This is an epic love story between Ellie, longtime companion of Daphne and also the lost romance between Bailey and Chelsea.

Ellie and Daphne’s story is mainly told through reading Ellie’s diaries, dating back from the beginning of their romance sixty years earlier, until the end of their lives together. These diaries tell of all the ups and downs of lesbian life and the consequences of being gay in the movie world. They tell of the laughter and the tears, of happiness and betrayal, of love found and lost, of coming round in a full circle and love everlasting.

Ellie’s diaries are almost a book on their own. I got to know both Ellie and Daphne and to actually feel their emotional highs and lows. It was as if their emotions radiated off the page. Their story is both beautiful and sad. A story of a great unshakeable love spanning decades, a love that even when apart, meant they were really together.

The movie world along with all the scenic descriptions of both America and England had me imagining I was a part of their lives. I felt Ellie and Daphne were my friends.

The second story in this book is of the lost love between Bailey and Chelsea. In many ways their love story was similar to Ellie and Daphne’s. I could see where Ellie thought they could learn a lot from her and Daphne’s experiences. After all, a true love is love, whichever decade you are in or whatever age you are.

Chris has written this book with care and a great deal of passion for her characters that shines through. Not only did she practically write two stories, but Ellie is a Brit and some parts of the story takes place in England. Chris has also written Ellie’s dialogue using the British language.

I quite honestly think this is the best book Chris has ever written. I’ve read all her books, but this one simply tops them all. A definite re-read in the very near future.

Doublecrossed by Susan X Meagher

2012-01-15T13:34:00.000Z

Callie Emerson has been in a rather one sided open relationship for the past eighteen months. The rules of the relationship were made to suit both parties. But mainly because Callie’s lover, Marina, wanted to be free to see other women. Then Marina broke their rules.

Regina Manning and her lover, Angela, have been in a monogamous relationship. That is until Regina found out that Angela had been cheating on her for the past eighteen months with Callie’s lover, Marina.

Angela and Marina’s affair was instrumental to Callie and Regina meeting. Before long, the two women became firm friends. As time passed, both Callie and Regina began to realize they wanted more than just friendship. But unfortunately, their pasts kept coming back to haunt them.

Will Callie and Regan be able to put the past behind them? Will they allow themselves the happiness they both deserve?

This is an excellent, well written story. Although I didn’t particularly like Regan’s character. I know she had been wronged by her ex lover, but she treated Callie in such a judgemental way, I felt that I wanted to slap her. It wasn’t until the story progressed that I could understand more of Regan’s reactions and the reasons why she behaved towards Callie as she did. It still didn’t endear me to her though. I thought Callie deserved much better.

As I read on, I became aware that Callie was no where near as affected by the break up of her relationship with Marina as I’d first thought. Which came as rather a surprise. I think this probably made it easier for her to want to move on than Regan.

I enjoyed the book and it had me turning the pages late into the night to find out how the story ended. I will re-read this at a later date as I feel I may get more out of it with a second read.

Dead Ahead by Jen Wright

2012-01-15T13:32:00.001Z

Head of the Probation Office, Jo Spence is looking forward to getting her motorcycle out of storage and going for a nice fast ride. Spring is here at last. Life is good for Jo and her partner Zoey.

Jo has been having bad dreams. Each dream centers around death. Are Jo’s dreams a premonition? Although Jo feels uneasy, she carries on with her work and every day tasks as usual. Until suddenly Jo’s life is turned upside down once again.

Jo finds herself being the victim of a stalker. Jo suspects she is being stalked by someone she is or has been involved with in her capacity as a Probation Officer. But is this the case? Or is there some deranged person out there stalking Jo for their own pleasure? How will they find out?

The whole situation is unnerving for Jo and Zoey. Jo and Zoey find their relationship becoming more strained. The stalker keeps avoiding capture. Each time the police get close to finding the stalkers identity, they discover they are wrong.

After a few bungled attempts by the police trying to capture the stalker, Jo decides that she has had enough, she is going to do the job herself. Will she succeed where others have failed? Or will Jo put herself, Zoey and their friends in even more danger?

Will Jo and Zoey’s relationship survive the stress and trauma of being stalked and run out of their home?

An exciting well written book with mystery, intrigue and suspense, with so many twists and turns and ups and downs that I felt deliciously dizzy. This is a real page turner. Once started I couldn’t put it down until the end.

I loved the characters and the descriptive settings had me dwelling amongst them, looking on from the side lines. This book had me guessing all the way through. Just when I thought I knew exactly what was going on, I discovered I was wrong.

This is the third Jo Spence book and in my opinion, the best so far. There is no need to have read the others as this is a standalone book. But don’t miss out.

Snowbound by Cari Hunter

2012-01-13T16:03:00.000Z

During a heavy snow storm in the small English village of Birchenlow, Police Officer Sam Lucas and her cop partner, Mac answer a call. A silent alarm is going off. Sam and Mac arrive on the scene amidst gun fire. Sam is in the wrong place at the wrong time and is taken hostage.

The two robbers take Sam to an isolated building with a barn. They throw Sam in the dark barn and leave her there. Sam weighs up her chances and decides that she will try to escape. Unfortunately after injuring one of the robbers, Sam is shot in the leg.

Doctor Kate Myles has been treating the injuries of some of the victims of the robbery when a request for a doctor to go and tend to the injured robber and police woman, Sam, comes in. Kate volunteers.

When Kate arrives at the scene of the hostage situation, she finds that the robber has a concussion and treats him. But Sam’s life is in danger. She has lost a lot of blood. Will Kate be able to stop the bleeding and save Sam’s leg as well as her life? Sam and Kate have to find a way to stay alive. Will they succeed?

Amidst all the pain and terror, Sam and Kate find themselves getting close, there is a definite attraction between them. Is this because of the hostage situation? Will Sam and Kate feel the same way if and when they are rescued? They have to survive first though.

This is Cari Hunter’s debut book. You would never know it. The writing is excellent. The story thrilling and fast paced. There is a lot more to this story than just what the blurb says on the back of the book. But to expand on it any further would give away too many spoilers.

I loved both Sam and Kate’s characters, they complimented each other. The other characters in the book all played excellent parts to enhance and further the story along to it’s conclusion.

I was hooked into this book from the first page and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I had to find out whether Kate and Sam made it out unscathed. Just when I thought all was well, the story veered off in another unexpected direction, just to add more to the excitement.

Although this book is a thriller. It has the added bonus of a slow developing romance between the two main characters. But of course, love never runs smoothly.

I am greatly looking forward to seeing more from Cari Hunter in the very near future.

Ruth Gogoll's Christmas Carol by Ruth Gogoll

2012-01-13T16:02:00.000Z

Modern day version of Scrooge, Michaela Wittling, hates Christmas, it’s just another day to her. She hates that she has to give her staff time off, hates that she has to give out bonus’s and hates all the fuss everyone makes.

When Michaela’s father all but ruined her grandfather’s wine company, Michaela had a hard time getting the company back on track, let alone making a profit when she took over after his death. Michaela lived in virtual poverty, she ran the company as cheaply as she could. She paid her staff a pittance, dressed in tattered clothing, in fact she was so tight, she wouldn’t spend one penny unless it was absolutely necessary. Even when she got her company back in the black, she still carried on saving every penny.

Michaela had no social life at all, save for the odd one night stand. Her latest fling, Karina was a woman she’s hooked up with a couple of times, but Michaela really wasn’t bothered if she saw her or not.

Young mother Ramona Benckhoff works for Michaela. Her daughter Leonie had been ill since birth. Now on this Christmas Eve she is dying. Her only one hope and a slim one at that, is a treatment only available in America. Treatment that Ramona can not afford. What will happen to poor little Leonie? She needs a miracle.

Although Ramona has worked for Michaela for quite some time, Michaela has never really noticed her, until she offers to work over the Christmas holiday. Michaela thinks Ramona is trying to up her salary and is dismissive when she hears Ramona has a sick daughter in hospital. Michaela is her usual self centered obnoxious self.

When Michaela goes home on Christmas Eve the fun begins. Michaela is visited by three ghosts. The ghost of Christmas past, the ghost of Christmas present and the ghost of Christmas future. What will these ghosts have to show Michaela?

Will these ghostly visits change Michaela’s outlook on life? Will they change her way of life? Will they help Michaela become a better kinder person? Or will Michaela carry on being the frugal Scrooge, who couldn’t care about anyone or anything? Will Michaela ever find love or will her only love be money?

I loved this twist on Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. I’ve read and also watched many different versions of this timeless classic. It is a firm favorite. This modern day version with a lesbian Scrooge is fabulous. The layout of the story is very similar. But the story is so very different.

Michaela’s character was great as a female Scrooge. I hoped right from the outset that her character would follow the traditional story and become a nicer person. But did she? You will have to read the book to find out. I loved Ramona’s character too. She is so full of love and hope, she never gives in. Each of the other characters plays a vital role in the story to bring it all together. The book is very well written.

In my opinion this book would make an wonderful film. It was originally written in German and the translation is excellent. If you only buy one Christmas book, make it this one.

High Impact by Kim Baldwin

2012-01-13T15:59:00.001Z

Courier Emery Lawson has had one near death experience too many. On her recovery she decides enough is enough. She gives up her job and decides to live her life to the full. She is going to travel the world. Part of Emery’s itinerary involves a trip to Alaska. On her arrival, Emery finds herself becoming part of a close knit group of friends. What Emery didn’t expect to find, was true love.

Pasha Dunn works for an adventure company. She has an uncanny intuition that kicks in every so often. Her intuition goes off the scale just prior to Emery’s arrival. Pasha has no idea why. When it becomes apparent that according to her intuition, Emery is Pasha’s soul mate, Pasha is dismayed. Emery is not relationship material. In fact, it appears that Emery’s lifestyle is beyond Pasha’s liking or understanding. Will there be a chance of love for Emery and Pasha? For that to happen, one or both of them will have to change.

Emery is booked on to a trip out and Pasha is one of the guides. The two women become closer. But Pasha is all too aware that Emery will leave soon to continue with the rest of her world tour.

Their situation comes to a head when a terrible accident forces them both to take a look at their lives. Will Emery and Pasha survive the accident? Will Pasha’s intuition be right? Is Emery her soul mate? Will Emery see what is in front of her?

This is another winning book from Kim Baldwin. A fantastic mix of adventure and romance. The story is a well written page turner. It was great to see characters from Kim’s previous books set in Alaska. Old friends and new friends meeting together for a new adventure. This is a standalone book. But you wouldn’t want to miss any books Kim has written. I look forward to Kim’s next book eagerly.

Gloria's Legacy by Robin Alexander

2012-01-13T15:58:00.000Z

Adrienne and Hayden are expecting their first child. There isn’t long to go until Adrienne gives birth. Although Adrienne has to take it easy, it’s Hayden that is going out of her mind. As always with Hayden, she simply has to find things to do, often with hilarious and/or disastrous consequences.

Added to the list of Adrienne’s and Hayden’s worries and concerns, is a young woman guest. A woman hiding secrets. A woman who will unwittingly bring mayhem and disruption to their peaceful world on Cat Island. A woman however, who quickly endears herself to Adrienne and Hayden. What will happen when her secrets are divulged? Who is looking for her on the island and for what reason? Will Adrienne and Hayden be safe?

This is another wonderful, well written, light hearted, often hilarious adventure with Adrienne and Hayden at their Inn on Cat Island. An adventure that involves not only the lovely Adrienne and Hayden, but their families and friends as well.

This is the third book in the series and as always we meet the delightful characters from the previous books and some equally lovable new ones too. Well almost all of them are lovable! There is no need to read the first two books in the series, but you will be seriously missing out on some good books if you don’t.

The antics of Hayden are as always a laugh a minute. How Adrienne survived her pregnancy with the accident prone Hayden around, I’ll never know. But maybe Adrienne’s special gift helped her out.

As this series has gone on, it has become apparent to me that it would make an absolutely hilarious dark comedy drama either for a film or a TV drama. It doesn’t hurt that there is a hot romance at the centre of each adventure either. Oh, as an after thought, did Adrienne and Hayden have a boy or a girl? Read the book and find out.

Arbor Vitae by Susan X Meagher

2012-01-13T15:56:00.000Z

Forty Five year old Abby Graham had lost her husband William five years previously. Her son Trevor was going abroad for a while and her daughter Hayley had left for college. Abby decided to try to begin living her life again. She began dating, but none of the men she dated seemed to want to begin a relationship. Now Abby has decided that she wants to give her back yard a make over. She hires landscape architect Clancy O’Connor. A decision which will change both women’s lives forever.

Thirty year old Clancy O’Connor is an out lesbian. Within a short while of meeting Abby she realizes she really likes her, in a more than ‘just friends’ way. But Abby is straight, (isn’t she) older than her and has grown up children. Clancy knows she can’t hope for anything other than friendship. But as time passes, Clancy’s feelings become more intense, she is in love with Abby.

Abby and Clancy begin to spend a lot of time together. Soon Abby also realizes her feelings for Clancy go beyond friendship. Abby had always thought that William would be her only real true love and is surprised by the intensity of her feelings for Clancy. Abby and Clancy begin a deep and passionate affair. They have no idea how their affair will develop or even if they will be able to sustain it. Both women want a relationship. Unfortunately there is a huge obstacle put in their way. Will they be able to find a way round it? Will their love be strong enough to outlast every thing that is thrown their way. How will Abby cope when her family and friends find out about their relationship? Will she run?

This is a blockbuster of a book. A well written May/December romance of epic proportions. A truly wonderful romance of two women from such vastly different back grounds as well as their difference in ages. Although I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough to find out what happens with Abby and Clancy, I was really sorry when the book came to an end. A book I will definitely re-read.

The Life in Her Eyes by Deborah Barry

2012-01-13T15:55:00.000Z

Rae Crenshaw is a love ‘em and leave ‘em player. She can virtually have any woman she wants. Once badly hurt in love, Rae has no intentions of it ever happening again. But deep down, Rae is still hoping that she may find love again. Hoping that she will have a second chance. The problem is, she will have to let her guard down for that to happen. Will she be able to?

Evon Lagace’s life is in a complete mess. She failed as a dancer and now she is suffering an unbearable loss. Life for her is all but over, she can’t go much further down. Her once full and loving life is now full of pain, anguish and loneliness. Will Evon ever be able to let go of her past to have a second chance at love? Does she even want to? Or will the guilt eat her alive?

When Rae and Evon meet, Rae is immediately taken with Evon. But will she allow herself to love again? Evon can’t allow herself to love. She’s already had her one shot at true love. You do only get one chance, right? Wrong, but someone needs to tell Evon that. Will these two women ever sort out their pasts to allow them both a future together?

This is a well written, poignant story of love, survival and the possibility of second chances. The story is both tragic and exhilarating. The lives of these two extremely vulnerable women are connected in a way that will come as a surprise.

This book had me hooked into the story from the beginning. It created a mixture of emotions. It’s sad and tragic in parts. In other parts it is exciting and is hot and unpredictable. The stories of both Rae and Evon will stay with me for a very long time. In fact, I finished this book a few days ago and I’m still reeling from the story. Once I started this book, I was unable to put it down, so allow plenty of time to read it. This book is a definite re-read. It was published quite sometime ago and unfortunately I can’t find anything else written by Deborah Barry, which is a crying shame.

Cherry Grove by Susan X Meagher

2012-01-13T15:53:00.000Z

During the summer break from her University post, Hayden rents a home on Fire Island, part of the Cherry Grove community. Hayden needs peace and quiet to write her book and Fire Island fits the bill perfectly. It is a small place and can only be reached by riding the ferry. It’s here that Hayden meets Gina, the hot and sexy ferry driver. Although Hayden knows they are both opposites, she accepts a date from Gina anyway. Hayden has some serious misgivings about dating Gina, after all, she doesn’t really know her, so she leaves a note on the fridge for her housemates, giving them details of her date and whereabouts.

After a steamy night of passion, Gina finds the note. She is incensed and leaves immediately, but not before retaliating and leaving a note of her own. Will Gina even speak to Hayden again?

Eventually Hayden and Gina start talking and dating. But Hayden’s friends don’t think Gina is good enough for her. Especially Hayden’s best friend Dana. Gina though, isn’t all she seems at first glance. Hayden gets a most pleasant surprise when she gets to know her better. What has Gina been holding back on? Will Hayden’s friends think differently about Gina when all is revealed?

As time goes on, Hayden and Gina begin to think they may have something special. But Hayden is looking into other job offers that will entail her moving right away. Will Hayden choose her career or Gina? What will Gina do when she finds out about Hayden’s job opportunities?

Another set back is caused by Gina’s ex girlfriend, Lacey, turning up, four years after they had split up. Does Lacey want Gina back? She is gorgeous, Hayden feels inferior, does Gina still love Lacey?

Things come to a head when Dana tells Gina that Hayden has had a job offer. A story that is not true. Will Gina listen to Hayden’s explanation? Hayden is so angry that she no longer wants Dana as her friend. Will Hayden and Gina be able to get past this latest in the long line of set backs?

This is a wonderful, delightful, passionate, hot, romance. A truly excellent book. The fledgling romance between Hayden and Gina is sweet and tender. All their highs and lows, the laughter and the tears, all written with the sympathy and understanding that only a good writer can put across to the reader.

Both Hayden and Gina are lovely characters. Each character brought an essential piece of themselves into the story to help it along it’s way. I loved the feeling of actually being there amongst these characters. I could quite easily picture myself riding along on the ferry.

Although this book is a nice length, I still didn’t want it to end. A page turner and a book that will be a definite re-read.

A Fall to New Heights by Sidney Andrews

2012-01-13T15:51:00.000Z

At the beginning of 1973, Sidney Andrews was happily married to her husband Bill and the mother of three children. In August 1973, Sidney met a perfect stranger. A stranger that would change Sidney’s life forever.

Sidney had married Bill when she was seventeen. They brought a nice ranch house and they both dearly wanted children. Due to a medical problem, Sidney wasn’t able to have children, so the couple adopted three children. Sidney and Bill were happy and living the American dream.

When Sidney’s friend Joyce set up a regular prayer meeting, she badgered Sidney in to attending. It was here Sidney met Kate. The woman that would eventually become her soul mate. Her one true love.

Sidney and Kate quickly became firm friends. Soon both Sidney’s and Kate’s families were spending time together, going on vacations, dining out, camping trips, they all got on great together. The more time Sidney and Kate spent together, the more they both began to feel for one another. At this point neither Sidney or Kate considered what their friendship and feelings actually meant.

After Kate had a miscarriage, the two women started up a business together, they opened a Christian bookstore. Gradually Sidney and Kate became more than just friends. At first they fought it, but love won through. What should they do? Would either woman be able to give up their family to pursue their love? After a lot of soul searching and trusting in their faith, they came to the conclusion, that love had to win through.

The journey they took after making that decision was harrowing, to say the least.

The emotional turmoil these two brave women suffered just radiates off the pages of this book. Way back in the 1970’s, things were so different from today. Although having said that, even today, some parts of the world are not tolerant of same sex relationships. Sidney and Kate faced homophobia, hostility and hardship. Both women had left everything to be together. Against all odds and with their faith they made it through to live the lives they deserve to have. To love the person they choose to love.

This book should be an inspiration to all women in the the same or similar situations. It is a story of great courage. A story that shows if you believe in what you are fighting for, you will win through. A true story of a true and everlasting love.

A Walk In The Rain by Alison Barnard

2012-01-13T15:50:00.000Z

Conductor Jessa Hanson is just about at the top of her career. Her professional life is right on track. Her personal life however, is not. Jessa has been badly hurt in the past. Her relationship with her ex girlfriend Stephanie, almost destroyed her.

Actress Shara Quinn is going to take the part of playing Jessa in the film about Jessa’s life, called Maestra. Part of her research in to her role is to live with Jessa for a couple of months and shadow her every move. There is one obstacle in the way to Shara’s success in carrying out this task though, her obsessive fiancé, Derek.

When Jessa and Shara meet, there is an attraction there for both women. But Shara is straight, isn’t she? Plus Jessa is very wary of getting involved in another relationship. Jessa can’t tell her heart not to fall in love though, whatever her mind thinks. Jessa and Shara both know they won’t be able to deny their feelings much longer.

Unfortunately, Derek shows up and Shara has to meet him at the airport. What will Shara tell him?

Jessa is not pleased by what she perceives as Shara’s disloyalty. When Shara returns, she finds Jessa in a compromising situation. But is it all as it seems? It’s enough however to send Shara running out of Jessa’s life.

Months later after Maestra has been filmed, Shara hears a musical poem that can only have been written by Jessa about the love that was lost between them. Shara seeks Jessa out and they reconcile, finally consummating their love for one another.

But is Shara ready to be an ‘out of the closet’ lesbian? Will Shara be able to cope with the demands of the press? Will Jessa understand Shara’s reluctance to be out? Will their love be lost forever?

This is a lovely very well written romance. It is nicely paced, not too fast or slow and has so many ups and downs, twists and turns, it’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Both Jessa and Shara have to come to terms with their pasts and accept changes to allow them the possibility of a future together.

We follow both women on the paths they take and hope they will both end up in the same place at their journey’s end, together where they belong.

The rest of the characters were essential in moving the story along. Even the obnoxious Derek played his part to perfection.

This is the first book I’ve read by Alison Barnard, I’m hoping there will be more. I was so sorry when I reached the end of this excellent book. I wanted to hear so much more about Jessa and Shara. A book I will definitely be re-reading.

The Slayer by Nadine LaPierre

2012-01-13T15:48:00.000Z

RCMP Constable Danielle Renaud had been waiting ages for a chance to transfer from General Investigations to Special Investigations. Her chance finally arrived when Staff Sergeant John Kline, head of the cold case unit, is in need of a special investigator, a lesbian, to investigate the death of nurse Kristina Buchanan eighteen months earlier. Danielle meets his requirement nicely.

Danielle jumps at the chance, even though the transfer is only temporary to begin with. Little does Danielle know that what should be an exciting new beginning for her, will in fact turn into the worst nightmare of her life.

Lilly Marsh is a Mi’Kmaq Crown Attorney and Danielle’s friend, or should be. But is Lilly on the same side of the law as Danielle? Will she impede Danielle’s investigation to further her own career?

Melissa Lambert, Senior DNA Technician, takes an instant dislike to Danielle the first time they meet, but becomes friends with Lilly. Will she help or hinder Danielle’s investigation?

Nathalie Boudreau is a songwriter among other careers. She is also Lilly’s love interest. But Danielle who has just split up from a long term, unsatisfying relationship with Rachel, finds Nathalie attractive. Will Danielle act on her attraction even though she knows it’s wrong as Nathalie is part of her investigation?

During the course of Danielle’s murder investigation, it becomes apparent that all three of these women have something to hide. But what? Can it be that one of these women is the murderer?

This is the first book in a new series featuring the beautiful, intelligent RMCP Constable Danielle Renaud. It’s hard to believe that such an intriguing, thrilling well written story can be a debut book.

From the very first page I was hooked into the book. I found myself so immersed in this story, that I didn’t want to put the book down. But I paced myself. This book cannot be rushed. It must be savored. To miss a clue would be tragic, it could alter the whole perception of the story.The characters are well fleshed out and each character has a part to play in the exquisite plot. I really loved the characters, the descriptions of them are excellent, so it was easy to picture them, making them real for me. I loved the scenic descriptions of Nova Scotia and Quebec and surroundings. All this added to my enjoyment.

There are so many possibilities as to the outcome. So many twists, turns, ups and downs, it was like being on a rollercoaster and a merry-go-round at the same time. So many red herrings, my head was spinning. I am usually quite good at figuring out who the murderer is fairly early on, but not this time. Each time I thought I knew who the murderer was, I was proved wrong. A truly excellent suspense.

This is not a book that you can read in a couple of hours. It is long, something to really get your teeth into. For those of you who do not like blood and gore, don’t let the title put you off. There is very little of either in it. Just pure, unadulterated mystery, suspense and intrigue. Oh and some romance for good measure.

The story did conclude, but the ending was a real shock. It has left me gasping for the next instalment. I hope we don’t have long to wait.

Waiting by Q Kelly

2012-01-13T15:46:00.001Z

30 year old Caris Ismay’s life is not going according to plan. She has just had a baby and her 56 year old wife, Dale, has had an automobile accident. Dale’s coma turns into be a vegetative state. Their marriage was over before the accident, but how can Caris abandon her now?

29 year old Lena Ismay is Dale’s daughter from a previous marriage. Lena is the keeper of Dale’s huge secret. A secret that she feels Caris has every right to know about, which may shed some light onto Dale’s strange behavior before she had the accident.

Lena is hiding a secret of her own, which if revealed may destroy Caris and Lena’s budding friendship. Which for Lena means much more than Caris can ever know. Caris herself is also keeping her feelings to herself. It wouldn’t be right to allow them to surface, would it?

The day arrives when Caris and Lena can’t fight the growing attraction between them and they kiss passionately. Will Caris and Lena throw caution to the wind to pursue their attraction and what may possibly be true love? Will the fact that Caris is Lena’s stepmother, although there is only a years difference in their ages, get in the way? Will love overcome tragedy?

This is Q Kelly’s third book. It’s a truly excellent, hard hitting, gritty read. Like the other two books by Q Kelly, I couldn’t put this down.

Q Kelly covers controversial topics that many authors would fear to write about. She writes with sensitivity, caring and understanding that shows in her works. It is quite obvious that Q Kelly has done a lot of extensive research into the topics covered in this book. The notes at the back of the book give a very good insight into Dale’s condition.

I love the characters Caris and Lena, they are well described so that the reader can feel an affinity with them. The rest of the characters each have their own parts to play in moving the story along.

I eagerly await the fourth book by Q Kelly. Each of her books is totally different from the last. What will be next?

The Odd Couple by Q Kelly

2012-01-13T15:45:00.000Z

Morrisey Hawthorne has a four year old son, Gareth. Everyone is told that Morrisey conceived Gareth using artificial insemination. But Morrisey is hiding a terrible secret that she is afraid to reveal, afraid that if she does, everyone will behave differently towards her and Gareth.

Charlene Sudsbury has lost her son, JP. He committed suicide three years earlier. Charlene’s life has been a mess since that dreadful day. She is barely keeping her life on track and is still grieving and trying to understand the reason why JP took his own life.

Morrisey and Charlene meet at the cemetery when Morrisey is visiting the grave of her recently deceased father with Gareth and Charlene is tending to JP’s grave. Charlene is shocked when she comes face to face with Gareth. He is the image of her son JP when he was a boy. Morrisey and Charlene chat together and Charlene shows Morrisey a photo of JP. From the way Morrisey is behaving, Charlene begins to think that Morrisey is hiding something. Which of course she is, but it’s not at all what Charlene imagines. When eventually Morrisey reveals all to Charlene, it causes her to question the past.

Morrisey and Charlene continue to forge ahead with their friendship, which eventually, against all odds, turns into a mutual attraction.

When an old friend of JP’s arrives on the scene, another spanner is thrown in to the works. Will Morrisey and Charlene be able to get past this latest shocking development? Or will the past forever force them apart?

This book is no run of the mill lesbian romance, far from it. It is a shocking story with ups and downs and twists and turns throughout. The two main characters, Morrisey and Charlene are each battling the trauma’s of the past. To move on, they are both going to have to confront and overcome their pasts.

In the middle of all this is Morrisey’s son, Gareth. The one constant in Morrisey’s life and eventually in Charlene’s life too.

Although the storyline is both serious and dreadful, the author has added a timely touch of humor throughout to make for a lighter read. All in all, a well written book, one that deserves to be re-read. It would be great to see Morrisey, Charlene and Gareth back in a future book. In my opinion, they have much more to offer.

55 Ford by Erin O'Reilly

2012-01-13T15:43:00.001Z

Author, Andrea McBride, (Andie) is in need of someone to restore a 55 Ford truck that she inherited as part of the sale when she purchased her home. She has a special reason for wanting the best restorer money can buy. Garage owner, RJ Whittaker is recommended to her by a mutual acquaintance. For reasons of her own, RJ refuses point blank to even contemplate doing the restoration. Andie eventually wears RJ down with an offer too good to refuse. The money she gets for doing the restoration will enable RJ to do the renovations on her garage, which she’s been wanting to do for ages.

As Andie and RJ spend more time together, Andie begins to find RJ attractive and starts to think about the possibility of having a relationship. But Andie has some issues from her past that need to be resolved before she can embark on a new relationship.

RJ is attracted to Andie, but she can not allow herself to get involved in a relationship. There are too many ghosts from her past that are holding her back. RJ has to find a way to move on, but does she really want to?

Will both Andie and RJ sort out their problems from the past so they can begin dating? Is there a chance for them to have a future together? If certain people from Andie’s past have a say, the answer will be no.

This is a short book, well written and what I would call a ‘comfortable’ romance. A nice love story to snuggle up with on a cold winter’s night or even a beach read. I love the two main characters. They didn’t get off to a very good start with each other in the beginning, but as per the comfortable romance, that didn’t last too long. That’s not to say that all runs smoothly for them, far from it.

This is a very worthwhile read and for the ridiculously cheap price of $1.99 in the bargain basement at Affinity, it is excellent value. Although the book has only had a light editing, there are very few typos.

Beloved Pilgrim by Nan Hawthorne

2012-01-13T15:42:00.000Z

Elisabeth von Winterkirche, her twin brother, Elias and his gay lover and squire Albrecht, are leading a comfortable settled life with their frail mother. Elias and Albrecht are learning all the things to enable them to fight in the crusades and any other wars that may come their way. Elisabeth has also been surreptitiously leaning the art of warfare along side them too.

When their father returns from a four year absence, Elisabeth learns he has arranged for her to be married to a Baron Reinhardt. Elisabeth is against it from the start, but has no choice and nothing can be done. Once married, Elisabeth discovers her husband to be a spiteful, uncaring brute who only wishes for a child. Elisabeth is relieved that her parents won’t allow their marriage to be consummated until Reinhardt’s return from the wars and is delighted when he departs the morning after their marriage.

When Elisabeth’s mother dies, her father is grief stricken. He leaves their estate for the crusades. Meanwhile, Elias is taken ill and suddenly dies.

When Reinhardt returns and learns of Elias’s death, he claims their estate and riches for himself. Elisabeth is ill treated, abused and left a virtual prisoner when Reinhardt departs once again. Elisabeth and her only friend Albrecht feel they have no choice but to escape.

Elisabeth dons Elias’s clothes and with Albrecht posing as her squire, passes herself off as Elias and they go off to try to find Elisabeth’s father and to fight in the crusades.

On their journey, Elisabeth becomes aware that she is attracted to other women after spending a night with a prostitute. Fortunately, the prostitute is only too pleased to be with Elisabeth and keeps her secret safe. This night of passion is a turning point for Elisabeth. She knows she will only be happy with a woman as a lover.

Whilst on her travels, Elisabeth meets Maliha, a half Greek, half Turkish woman with a young son, she falls deeply in love and her love is reciprocated. But Elisabeth has to carry on with her pledge to fight. Reluctantly Elisabeth leaves her beloved Maliha and her newly acquired son behind. Will Elisabeth make it back unscathed? If she does, will she find Maliha waiting for her?

This book is bursting at the seams with scenic descriptions, excitement, history, adventure, war, fighting heroism and romance. It shows war at it blood thirstiest. The vivid descriptions are graphic and leave nothing to the imagination.

This is more than just another romantic novel about a woman passing herself off as a man to fight in a war. This is a story of discovery and ends in true love.

This book would make a fantastic film or at the very least a great TV series. I would love to see a sequel to this book.

When Women Were Warriors Books 1, 2 and 3 by Catherine M Wilson

2012-01-13T15:39:00.000Z

Book one of this wonderful trilogy begins the story of a would be warrior, sixteen year old Tamras, as she leaves behind her childhood and her mother Tamnet’s house, to enter the house of her mother’s best friend, the Lady Merin.

On her arrival, Tamras is disappointed to find that she has been assigned to be the companion of an outsider, Maara. Not to learn to be a warrior right away as she had thought. When Maara is seriously injured, Tamras nurses her back to health again when others had given her up for dead. A bond between them begins to form.

When the time comes for Tamras to become an apprentice warrior, she chooses to remain with Maara, even though the lead warrior, Vintel had specifically asked for Tamras as her apprentice. This does not please Vintel.

The other women of the house are wary of Maara and don’t trust her. The Lady Merin herself has her doubts as to Maara’s loyalty and asks for Tamras to spy on her.

Will Maara prove trustworthy? Will Tamras agree to spy for Lady Merin?

This book was a total surprise to me. I had the book for a long while before I read it. Then only at the recommendation of a friend. I’m only sorry it took me so long to get around to reading it. The story is written in such a way, that I’d finished it before I realized it was coming to an end and immediately wanted to read more.

The story is told entirely from Tamras’s point of view. I loved her way of telling tales from the old days, beginning with, ‘In ancient days when only women were warriors......’ This made parts of the book read like a lovely fairy story. Really delightful. A story not entirely of bloodshed and battles as I had expected. But of a young girl becoming a woman in ancient times. All the trials and tribulations of growing up and experiencing physical love for the first time.

An extremely well written excellent beginning to the trilogy. I love the characters and the way they interact with one another. The scenic settings make it easy to lose ones self in and to imagine being a part of the story as only a talented writer can do.

When Women Were Warriors Book 11 A Journey Of The Heart

This second book in the trilogy follows Tamras as she begins another part of her journey into adulthood. Tamras is apprenticed to Maara and learning to be a warrior. Her best friend Sparrow is now apprenticed to Vintel.

Tamras and Sparrow are lovers, but Tamras has reservations and is wary, as Vintel is hers and Maara’s enemy.

When Tamnet, Tamras’s mother comes to visit her, Tamras learns that Lady Merin intends to adopt her and make Tamras her heir. When Vintel finds out about this, both Tamras’s and Maara’s lives are in mortal danger.

When Lady Merin falls ill and Tamras nurses her back to health, Vintel made sure vile rumours were spread around regarding Lady Merin’s alleged relationship with Tamras.

Vintel lures Maara’s away from the house and then imprisons Tamras. But Tamras has friends and they help her to escape. Tamras catches up with Maara and together they manage to over power the warriors keeping Maara captive and they go on the run.

Maara and Tamras travel far from Lady Merin’s house and hide in a forest. They received help from the people of the forest and lived amongst them while deciding what they should do next and when to do it.

As time passed, Tamras realized she had fallen in love with Maara. But did Maara feel the same? Will Tamras and Maara be found by Vintel? Will they survive?

This second book followed right on from where the first one left off. It is a continuation as to be expected in the journey Tamras’s life is taking into adulthood. The story is every bit as captivating and intriguing as the first in the series. It left me full of excitement and anticipation for the next instalment.

When Women Were Warriors Book 111 A Hero’s Tale

The last book in the trilogy begins where the second book left off with Tamras and Maara still in exile from Lady Merin’s house.

At the end of the winter, Tamras and Maara decide to begin the journey back to Lady Merin’s house. They know that they must return to put right all the wrongs that Vintel has caused.

Unfortunately on their journey, Tamras and Maara are taken prisoner by people from the north. Maara manages to negotiate for Tamras to be released, therefore putting her own life in the hands of an old enemy, Elen.

Tamras decides to follow Maara’s trail which leads towards Elen’s house, where she is certain Maara is going to be returned to.

This decision is the turning point for everyone. The house of Lady Merin, The Northerners, The house of Elen and all people along the way. This decision leads to Tamras proving her worth as a leader. But how does Tamras find Maara? Will their love survive? Battles are fought and won, but who is the victor? Will Tamras ever return to take up her rightful place as the adopted daughter of Lady Merin?

This is an enchanting, captivating, excellently written trilogy of books that I simply could not put down until I’d finished them all. I tried to read them slowly to savor them, but alas, my Kindle got red hot from turning the pages so quickly. But I am going to read them again, slowly this time.

The whole trilogy is told from Tamras’s point of view and is based on her life and her family, friends and enemies and her adventures along the way. We see her grow from an uncertain sixteen year old companion to the outsider Maara, to her apprenticeship with Maara and her eventual leadership status.

These books are a true delight to read. Page after page was feverishly turned in my quest to take the journey through life with Tamras.

There is something for everyone in these books. Excitement, adventure, love, betrayal, battles, survival, compassion just to name but some of the things you will find along the way.

This trilogy would be brilliant made into a film or TV series. The story and scenery would be a delight on screen.

If you are looking for something to really get your teeth into for the winter, look no further. I wholeheartedly and unreservedly recommend this series.

Worth The Risk by Karis Walsh

2012-01-13T15:19:00.000Z

Jamie Callahan is a high flying Investment Analyst. She keeps any relationship at arms length. She will never let her heart become involved with anyone. Her niece Anna has everything money can buy, but she has neither love or Jamie’s precious time. Any romantic liaison Jamie has is short lived. Love them and leave them is Jamie’s attitude.

Kate Brown has grown up pleasing her parents. She puts on many different faces to meet all occasions. Kate’s parents are pushing her up the social ladder, maybe beyond what Kate actually wants for herself.

Jamie and Kate meet when Kate applies to Jamie’s investment company for funding to buy a superior horse to enter an Olympic event. Jamie finds herself fascinated and attracted to Kate. Which she must ignore at all costs. She has to protect her heart. The more time Jamie and Kate spend together the more difficult it becomes for Jamie to ignore her feelings. Kate herself, is feeling similarly torn by her attraction to Jamie, she knows Jamie is a player, she must also protect her heart.

Both women are vulnerable. They have to decide whether pursuing their path to love is worth the risk to their hearts.

When I read the first book Karis wrote back last year, I wondered how she would be able to top her debut book. Well, she has done it. This is a wonderfully refreshing, well written romance set among the horse world. Always a winning combination for me. This story is far more than a romance though. I don’t want to give away any spoilers here, it would not be fair. If you love a good romance with a story to get your teeth in to, this in my opinion will fit the bill.

I think the whole book, including the characters, story and setting is absolutely spot on and perfection. I loved it from start to finish and was really sorry to reach the end. Another one for my re-read shelf. Dare I ask how this one will be topped? I hope we see another Karis Walsh book soon.

78 Keys by Kristin Marra

2012-01-10T14:40:00.000Z

Devorah Rosten, (Dev) received a present of a pack of tarot cards for her Bat Mitzvah. She put them away and forgot all about them. Many years later Dev finds the tarot cards and discovers she has a talent for reading them. Not only does Dev read the cards, but she finds she has an extraordinary way of reorganizing the futures of her clients. Clients that pay her a small fortune for her expertise and anonymity. Dev eventually gives up her teaching job to pursue her new found career.

Dev’s talents however, go far beyond the norm. She is sought after by unworldly powers, she becomes a chosen hero.

Laura Bishop is an up and coming young attorney. She has a love affair with one of her law firms partners, Elizabeth Stratton. The affair lasts for several years, Laura is in love. Elizabeth however has high ambitions. She ends their affair and marries. Hurting Laura badly in the process. But a while later, Elizabeth seeks Laura’s help in a delicate matter. Laura ends up holding vital evidence that could bring Elizabeth and her husband’s plans crashing down around them. What will Elizabeth do when she discovers Laura has something on her?

Dev seeks Laura out and offers her help after one of her sessions with her unworldly advisers. Laura has already been attacked. It’s not long before both Dev and Laura find themselves fighting for their lives against an unseen enemy. Will they both survive unscathed?

Dev and Laura also find themselves becoming more attracted to each other as the days go by. But before they can pursue their desires, Dev must first use her knowledge and skill to save Laura and herself from the force called The Malignity. Will she be successful?

78 Keys is a book like no other I’ve read. It is unique and refreshingly different. The book is well written with a subtle touch of humor throughout. The story is exciting, intense and hot in parts. A page turner.

Both main characters are not only likeable, but loveable. Dev is kind hearted and a little whacky. Laura is gentle and vulnerable. The supporting characters seamlessly tie the whole story together to a terrific finale. Another for my re-read shelf.

I eagerly look forward to Kristin’s next book.

Jericho by Ann McMan

2012-01-09T15:22:00.001Z

Syd (Margaret) Murphy, packs up her home in Durham and begins the long drive to Virginia. Her life in Durham is over, just like her ill fated marriage to Jeff. She has an eighteen month contract to set up and run a new library in Virginia. This will be a complete new beginning for her.

Dr Maddie Stevenson moved back to Virginia to take over her deceased father’s medical practice. She is currently driving to North Carolina when she notices a blue Volvo with it’s flashers on at the side of the road and a flat tire. She pulls over. This chance meeting between Syd and Maddie means that life for both women as they know it will never be the same again.

Syd explains to Maddie that she is on her way to Jericho to set up a new library. Of course, Maddie knows all about the project. Maddie changes the tire for Syd and they have coffee by the river with Maddie’s dog Pete and then go their own separate ways.

Maddie and Syd run into each other a few more times and it seems they are destined to become friends. It’s not long before Maddie and Syd begin to spend a lot of time together and Syd becomes friends with Maddie’s closest friends, David and his partner Michael, the local inn owners.

Before long, Maddie begins to feel a strong attraction to Syd, but denies her feelings, after all, Syd is still married and straight, isn’t she? None of this stops David from throwing the two women together and trying to play matchmaker, much to Maddie’s annoyance. What will happen when Syd finds out Maddie is gay? Will she still want her as a friend? Or will she be so disgusted she won’t want to see Maddie anymore?

Syd is feeling rather confused about her own feelings towards Maddie. She doesn’t want to let on about the attraction she is feeling for her. Maddie may not want her as a friend if she finds out. Will Syd be able to hide her feelings? Maddie mustn’t find out, she may be so disgusted, she might not want Syd as a friend anymore?

Will Syd and Maddie finally admit how they feel for each other?

This first book by Ann McMan does not read like a debut novel. The book is well written and is a nice long read and full to the brim with the delightful, humorous story of Syd and Maddie, their friends and colleagues, their lives, jobs, hopes and their quest for love. The characters are well formed, honed to perfection in fact.

Maddie and Syd’s characters grabbed me right from the beginning. Their lives and that of their friends reads like a dream. There is a very strong and excellent cast of supporting characters. I loved David and Michael, their two forever friends. As the book progressed, more likeable characters are introduced. All of which fit seamlessly into the story adding a richness to my reading experience. To say I enjoyed this book would be an understatement. Loved, adored, brilliant, laugh out loud and amusing would also not begin to do this book justice.

Where the walls of Jericho once came tumbling down, so the walls around Syd’s and Maddie’s hearts also crumbled piece by piece until all that is left there is pure unadulterated love.

Once in a while a good romance really makes an impression on me. This is high on my list for a re-read and I’ve clearly marked Ann McMan’s future books as a must buy. I hope there is a sequel in the pipeline to Jericho. These characters have so much more to offer. I want to see where they go next. If you like romance and you want a good book to curl up with on a few cold winter nights, this is the one.

Smooth sailing by Susan X Meagher

2012-01-09T15:20:00.001Z

Workaholic, Laurie Nielsen, is so stressed out, overworked and under pressure to meet the deadline for the opening of her companies’ new theme park in Japan, that she collapses from sheer exhaustion in her office.

Her boss, Fernando, sends her on a non negotiable, complete break, a vacation on one of the companies’ cruise liners.

After several run ins with the ships crew for trying to interfere and tell them how to do their jobs, Laurie finally backs off and settles down to take the well deserved rest her body so badly needs.

When Laurie leaves the ship at St Maarten to explore, she meets Kaatje Hoogaboom, an intriguing woman as different to Laurie as chalk is to cheese.

Kaatje owns a catamaran and takes tourists out sailing. Unlike Laurie who is totally obsessed with striving to reach almost impossible goals, Kaatje, takes each day as it comes and never worries about saving for the future.

After a rocky beginning, the two women find themselves becoming more and more attracted to each other, much to Laurie’s surprise, as she’d always thought of herself as straight.

What will happen when Laurie has to return home to her eighteen hour days at work? Will Laurie and Kaatje be able to carry on a long distance relationship? Will Laurie put Kaatje before her job? Will Kaatje be willing to compromise to accommodate Laurie’s job?

A lovely well written romance with some great scenery descriptions that crosses a few time zones. The book also addresses some of the problems facing two people of the same gender who want to be together. Gay marriage and the laws on immigration are touched upon. I love the two main characters, Laurie and Kaatje, along with the cast of supporting characters that all play a part to further the story.

Both Laurie and Kaatje have their own hopes, expectations and fears. Their own what ifs.......... For Laurie it is her job, what if I give up my job of a lifetime and the relationship fails. For Kaatje, it is what if I give my heart and Laurie can’t settle down, how will I survive it?

A nice comfortable romance to while away a cold winter evening.

Desert Heat by Dannie Marsden

2012-01-09T15:19:00.001Z

Book One

Learning To Live Again Series

DEA Agent, Lucinda Velaquez lost her lover Yvette, due to her inconsiderate behavior following a road traffic accident in which a child was killed. Yvette tried and tried to get Luce to open up to her until she couldn’t take anymore and left. Luce’s life was on a downward spiral, filled with alcohol and mindless sex. Her best friend, Joe Alverez, tried his best to get Luce back on track to no avail. She continued to turn up for work reeking of alcohol and sex until her boss placed her on desk duty and she got the help she needed to get her life and her career back on track.

After a while when Luce was feeling somewhat more in control, she was hand picked for an undercover job. Luce and other Agents were to gather intelligence on drug boss and gun dealer, Donavan Vargos. Whilst undercover, Luce becomes romantically involved with Beth, Donavan’s beautiful blonde girlfriend. The liaison between them could mean death for them both and put the whole undercover operation in jeopardy. Will the already suspicious Donavan find out?

When one of the undercover Agents is shot dead on Donavan’s orders, it becomes apparent that he is not the only Agent in Donavan’s organization. Will Luce be exposed next?

Meanwhile, back at the DEA and ATF, SAC Jessie Sullivan becomes aware they have a rogue agent who could expose Luce at anytime. Will she find out who the Agent is in time to save Luce from discovery?

This is a nice fast paced debut book in the start to a new series. Although I found the book to be a bit on the short side, the price reflects on this. I liked the characters and found myself not wanting to put the book down to find out how it ended. The book did conclude and an opening has been left for the next in the series. It will be interesting to see where Dannie will go next with the characters in book number two. I hope it won’t be too long in appearing.

The Brenda Strange Files Bag of Souls by Patty G Henderson

2012-01-09T15:17:00.000Z

The Brenda Starnge files. Bag of Souls

Private Investigator, Brenda Strange, receives a letter from her old friend Dana McCleary asking for Brenda to visit her and her girlfriend Cheryl on a matter of great importance, paranormal activity within their home.

Brenda puts everything on hold and flies out from her home in Tampa to Maine.

What begins as a pleasant visit between the three women, quickly becomes mayhem.

Will Brenda be able to help Dana and Cheryl, or is it already too late?

A nicely written horror story from the Queen of lesfic horror, Patty. This story is told in the true style of the the old horror stories from long ago. You know, the ones where things go bump in the night and you feel the hairs rising on the back of your neck and the butterflies dance in your stomach? The added bonus here is the story is told by Brenda Strange herself. If you’ve read the Brenda Strange books, you will be delighted by this short story. For those of you who haven’t ventured into the dark world of Brenda Strange, this is just a taster of the delights you have yet to come.

There is a beautiful added bonus of an essay written by Patty in 2003 explaining why she set the Brenda Strange stories in Tampa, Florida.

The Brenda Strange Series by Patty G Henderson

2012-01-09T15:11:00.000Z

The Burning Of Her Sin The first Brenda Strange mystery

Brenda Strange has a great life, she is a Princess Diana look a like, she is wealthy and has a great job. She's a lawyer and she's just been made junior partner in an up-market New Jersey law firm. All is changed in the blink of an eye when a crazed gunman goes on a killing spree and she becomes one of the victims and is seriously injured.
Brenda is literally pulled back from deaths door after a near death experience, to find she has a strange psychic abilities.
Brenda and her lover Tina, decide to buy the old Victorian Malfour house, in Tampa, something Brenda has wanted to do for a long time. Tina hopes this will help Brenda's recuperation.
Brenda was drawn to the house from the beginning. After they move in, strange occurrences begin. Brenda finds herself listening to the screams of the past in her mind. Thus begins the beginning of Brenda’s new world. A world filled with love, curses, murders, ghosts, religion. A world in which the past and the present are woven together.

Brenda is on a mission to solve the mysteries, enter Brenda Strange Private Investigator, in her new career.
This story has so many twists, turns, ups and downs going from the past to the present, with a bit of help from beyond the grave. It will keep you enthralled, intrigued and on the edge of your seat from the first page right through to the last page. A real page turner. The characters are strong and fit well together. The writing is superb. This book is more than just a mystery. It has a touch of the paranormal, a hint of romance and is a little bit gothic. All in all a lovely combination. I read this book a while ago and had to immediately buy the rest in the series. A truly wonderful beginning to a fantastic series that will always have a place on my book shelf.

Tangled And Dark Book two

Brenda Strange, Private Investigator extraordinaire is back in the second in the series.
Brenda is called upon to investigate the death of a local business woman, Paula Drakes, who drowned while attending a party on a boat. The boat was owned by Brenda’s neighbours, Joan and Stewart. Brenda's investigation does not run smoothly. Her main suspect, Joan Davis is found dead. She has two other suspects. One is violent and could easily commit murder. The other suffers with Multiple Personality Disorder.
As well as her investigation, Brenda has to try and patch up her deteriorating relationship with her lover, Tina. Add to this trying to make things right with her mother and Brenda is almost tearing her hair out.

As if this isn't enough, there are friendly ghosts and a touch of the paranormal to keep you guessing.

Will Brenda figure out what is going on and who is the murderer before more people die? Will Brenda be able to save her relationship with Tina?

Another extremely well written psychic mystery from the pen of Patty G Henderson. The characters are well written and believable. The story so well written that I felt a part of it all.
There is so much mystery and intrigue in this book, you will not be able to put it down until you've finished it. An exciting page turner from start to finish.

The Missing Page Book three

Brenda is coerced into taking an unusual case involving a missing manuscript.
It doesn't take long before once again, Brenda is up to her neck in mystery, murder and the paranormal. As the plot thickens, more murders occur and Brenda finds herself desperately trying to solve the case before people dear to her are murdered.

Brenda is also dealing with her mother’s death. Her client has been found decapitated and Brenda feels she owes it to him to solve the case. When the FBI get involved and the manuscript finds it’s way into Brenda’s hands, will this endanger Brenda even more?

What makes the manuscript so valuable? Why have the heads of the decapitated victims been taken? How many more victims will be found? Will Brenda solve the case before she becomes a victim herself?
As always, nothing is simple and you will be kept with the book glued to your hands until you've finished it. This book is a little shorter than the previous two in the series, but there is so much packed into it, I feel it’s quality over quantity. A roller coaster ride that you won’t be able to get off until you’ve reached the last page. Then you will want more. Be prepared for the story to shock you to the core leaving you gasping for breath. A truly unforgettable book that will stay with me for a long time to come.

Ximora Book four

Two years have passed since Brenda lost her lover Tina. She is　only just beginning to overcome her grief.

When Brenda's grandmother dies, she learns a lot about her past and her own psychic powers.

Brenda is asked to take a look at a case involving a series of brutal murders that has the Tampa　Police baffled. She liaises with detective Lisa Chambliss and the two women find they work quite well together. But like all Brenda Strange mysteries, nothing is simple or as it seems.　Brenda has to delve into ancient myths, but even with the help of ghosts and her own psychic powers, will she be able to keep those near and dear to her safe? Or will a monster that has been on earth for hundreds of years win the battle of good versus evil? Brenda has to call upon all her psychic powers to try to win the battle.

This is yet another of Patty's books that kept me up way past bedtime. Once you start it, you will have a real problem putting it down. I hope the next Brenda Strange isn't too long arriving. I may get withdrawal symptoms.　

The Brenda Strange series begins in a perfectly ordinary way. Brenda Strange is an ordinary, albeit rich, good looking and successful junior partner in a top notch law firm. Then Brenda gets shot and left for dead. This is where these mystery stories stop being ordinary. Now we have Brenda coming back from a near death experience with psychic powers that she cannot explain.

The series goes on with Brenda as a Psychic Private Investigator getting involved with both the living and the dead solving cases for the good of mankind and the supernatural and ridding the world of evil.

This is a wonderfully written series from the pen of a very talented writer. The characters are well formed, the lovable characters could be friends you mix with everyday. The nasty characters you simply love to hate.

Each book seamlessly carries on from it’s predecessor, but each book can be read as a standalone. To enjoy the series to it’s fullest I would recommend starting from the beginning. These books are too good to miss any of the action. If you only buy one mystery series this year, make it this one. It has something for everyone. Mystery, a touch of romance, intrigue, excitement, and supernatural beings and experiences. A real winner.

The whole series is consistently good throughout and in my opinion would make good films or a TV series.

I’m hoping that there will be another delightful Brenda Strange book soon.

Rainey Nights by R.E Bradshaw

2012-01-09T14:49:00.000Z

Ex FBI Agent, Rainey Bell, is settled into her new life with her lover, Katie Meyers. Unfortunately the idyllic life Rainey and Katie have been leading is about to come to an abrupt end. Rainey’s past is catching up with her, now it will affect Katie too.

Four years previously, FBI Agent, Rainey Bell and her team from the BAU, (behavioral analysis unit) had been called in to investigate a series of murders occurring along US highway 220. Rainey and her FBI partner Danny along with the rest of the team eventually get a break and solve the murders. The perpetrator is put behind bars.

Rainey and Danny over the next year or so have interviewed the murderer to try and get more information from him. But unfortunately without success. The murderer just threatens Rainey and taunts her.

So, how is it after four years, more murders are being committed? Is it a copy cat? Is the murderer passing out information from his jail cell?

Rainey and Katie’s lives are in danger. Not only from Rainey’s past either. Rainey’s job is dangerous, she could be shot at any time by one of the criminals she arranges bail for.

It’s not long before Rainey and Katie begin to argue, putting their fledgling relationship in jeopardy. Katie wants a family and a safe life. She isn’t going to get either staying with Rainey.

Will Rainey and Katie split up or will their love be strong enough to overcome the odds? Will they escape the clutches of a killer unscathed?

A truly well written excellent story. If you loved Rainey Days, you will adore Rainey Nights. I could not put this fast paced page turner down until I’d found out who the murderer was. The story just seamlessly flows. The plot is superb with lots of mystery, suspense and intrigue to keep the reader on the edge of the seat throughout, but with a light touch of humor too. The balance of the plot is just right, just enough is given away to keep the reader on the boil without giving away who the baddie is.

Rainey and Katie the two main characters are made for each other. There is a strong supporting cast of characters to ensure the plot progresses. Characters like Mackie and Ernie are lovable, some are just so vile you hate them. This is great as RE Bradshaw has got the writing just right to ensure the reader feels all these things.

I am looking forward to reading more, much more from RE Bradshaw and soon.

Strange Bedfellows by Q Kelly

2012-01-09T14:47:00.000Z

Frances Dourne, the daughter of a pastor had been sent to boot camp to turn her ‘straight’ for professing her love for her best friend. During the year she was there, she was beaten and abused. When she finally left the camp, she had convinced herself she was ‘cured’ and straight. She eventually married and had a child, Marissa.

Frances became the president of Gay Is A Choice. An organization that maintains they can show gay people how to become straight. What better example could they possibly have, other than Frances herself? Frances is now at a crossroads in her life. She has decided that she cannot go on living her life as lie any longer. She cannot keep on denying she is gay. She is aware of how much pain, suffering and damage both herself and GIC have put gay people through. Heaven knows, she’s suffered enough herself. She has made up her mind, she is going to publicly come out.

Elena Elise is a high class prostitute. She is hired by Frances, when Frances becomes disillusioned with her work, her own beliefs and the beliefs of GIC. Frances wants Elena to help her with her coming out plan.

Although the arrangement between Frances and Elena is strictly business, it doesn’t take long for them to both realize they are feeling more for each other than they should do. Will either woman allow herself to deviate from their arrangement?

When I first started reading this book, my first thoughts were ‘how can a homophobic head of an anti gay organization and a prostitute possibly have anything in common’? As I read on, it became apparent that this book was going to go far deeper and become more complex than I had expected.

Both women have one huge factor in common, they have both lost children. Frances lost her daughter when her gay ex husband kidnapped her ten years earlier. Elena lost her son when he had drowned three years earlier.

As the story progressed, I began to feel the pain that both women had suffered in their lives. The dislike I felt in the beginning for these characters, quickly turned around to sympathy and understanding for them both.

An extremely well written story with interesting characters. A real page turner and a pure delight to read. I read this book entirely in one sitting as I couldn’t wait to see how Q Kelly managed to wrap the story up. But she did and brilliantly too. I’m looking forward to Q Kelly’s next book.

All This and Family Too by Sarah Glenn

2012-01-09T14:45:00.000Z

Astronomy Professor Cynthia Leach is a vampire. She has to move from her home in North Carolina to evade vampire hunters. While she is driving to California to join her family, she encounters a young girl, Josie, being attacked. Cynthia rescues Josie and takes her with her. Josie learns along the way that Cynthia is a vampire, so the family offer her a good home to keep her quiet. It’s safer for Cynthia that way too.

When Cynthia begins work at the university, she has problems trying to adjust her working hours to do only night classes. This is only the beginning of her problems though. Some residents of the gated community that her grandmother has made a home for them all in, are looking for any excuse to get them out for no apparent reasons. Cynthia is also having problems finding people to feed from. But to top it all, the vampire hunters have caught up with her. Will Cynthia be able to stay one step ahead and avoid permanent death?

A Modern day vampire story with all the excitement you would want and expect. The story of the vampire Cynthia and her dysfunctional family. The thrill of the chase between the hunters and the hunted and how a vampire juggles between life and unlife. Told with a great deal of humor, with romance thrown in for good measure. Neatly sewn up at the end but leaving an option for a sequel. Well, I can hope.

The Destiny Series by J.M Dragon

2012-01-09T14:42:00.000Z

Define Destiny is the first book in this powerful blockbuster series centred around two women, Catherine Warriorson and Jace Bardley and their family. The rich, powerful and virtual recluse, Catherine Warriorson, lives a lonely existence on her ranch, named Destiny.

Jace Bardley is a PA for a film producer, working for the conniving Clarissa Hudson. Jace is sent to Destiny to film a documentary. When Jace meets Catherine, it’s love at first sight for her. But the path of true love rarely runs smoothly. We see the effect of a heroic rescue by Catherine, which results in a serious injury that will affect the rest of her life.

This first book in the series takes us through the trials and tribulations of love, misunderstandings and loss. It sets the scene for the rest of the series, coming a full circle back to love and destiny for Catherine and Jace.

The second book, Haunting Shadows begins right where Define Destiny ended. Catherine and Jace are at Destiny, at last beginning their lives together with their young family. But as usually happens, nothing is going to run according to plan. In this exciting sequel we encounter murder, betrayal, kidnapping and plots to intrigue us all.

Will Catherine and Jace’s love endure? Will their lives ever be the same again?

A nail biting exciting sequel that I was unable to put down.

Book three, In Pursuit of Dreams shows us that Catherine and Jace have managed to get past the recent traumatic tragedies in their lives. It is time for them to move on with their lives together. Time for their love for one another and their extended family to shine through. They have lots to look forward to, weddings, honeymoons and reunions. But will they be able to do that if Catherine doesn’t let go of her insecurities and allow their dreams to come true?

This part of the series is what I always think of as the gentle part. Not so much excitement, but all about family and romance. A lovely gentle book.

Book four, Actions and Consequences, sees Catherine and Jace’s love and commitment to each other being tested to it’s limits. An old enemy returns and new enemies appear. The Xianthos family, their descendants and their families are all in peril. Their downfall is planned, will the plot succeed?

A kidnapping rips apart Catherine and Jace’s family. Will it rip their love apart too?

A book chock full of excitement, triumph, intrigue, anguish, love, hate, guilt and despair. Each page turn brings almost unbearable excitement.

Book five, All Our Tomorrows continues with the race against time to find Catherine and Jace’s kidnapped daughter, Lisa. Catherine and Jace are bereft as the search continues with no clues. They have one hope left, and ex FBI agent, Serena Dusterly. But will she be able to get Lisa back unharmed?

Jace goes on a mission of her own to Greece. Catherine’s aunt is in need of help. An old enemy is at large. Jace accompanied by her pregnant friend Grace arrives on the Greek island of Xianspiros, but will they succeed in preventing murder?

Another action packed, adventurous, passionate story in this continuing saga.

Book six, Two Steps Forward One Back is the penultimate book in this wonderful series. Catherine and Jace are anxiously awaiting the birth of the twins Jace is pregnant with. Amid their chaotic family life, their friend Grace is fighting for her sanity. It seems she is suffering from more than just post natal depression after the birth of her daughter. Lisa is in trouble at school, but is she the bully she is accused of being? Jace’s younger sister, Lucy, embarks on a perilous journey that will result in a series of events that will rock the foundation of her parents relationship and will impact on Catherine and Jace’s relationship too.

This book is full to overflowing with love, lies, secrets, intrigue and misunderstandings. I just couldn’t put this down until I’d turned the last page.

Book seven A World Of Change, the last in the series, begins ten years after Two Steps Forward One Back ended.

Catherine and Jace’s ideal world is in danger of total collapse. Catherine’s business is in dire trouble. She stands to lose everything, including Destiny. Money is being syphoned off from Xianthos. The IRS are involved. Will Catherine be found guilty of fraud and end up in jail? She can’t possibly tell Jace and it puts a strain on their relationship. Jace is hiding a secret herself. If Catherine finds out, it could mean the end of their relationship and their lives together.

With all the stress of keeping secrets from each other, will their love survive?

Sadly, very sadly, this is the last in this blockbuster series with all it’s endearing (and some not so endearing) characters. It’s many years since I first read about Catherine, Jace and their extended family online. These ebooks remain true to that series along with all the little quirks we see in fanfiction on the web. I was so pleased to find these books were unchanged and as I remembered them. I love this series and for old fans like myself, it was a delight to read these on my ereader in comfort.

For anyone looking for a delightful, lovable new series, I wholeheartedly recommend this one.

There is only one thing I would like to point out to any prospective new readers, there is a bit of head hopping and a few typos . This did not bother me and it certainly did not spoil my enjoyment of the story. I was only too pleased that Julie kept this series unchanged and original. I feel also that I should point out that the price of these books is very cheap for the amount of reading you get.

If Julie decides to write another big series, I’ll be first in line to buy. Thank you Julie for hours of pleasure and enjoyment.

Women Gone Wylde by Beth Wylde

2012-01-09T14:36:00.000Z

An Erotic Short Story Collection, including two novellas.

Necessary Roughness – A wife’s reluctance to play BDSM games and how she overcomes it.

Saddle Up – Hot rodeo lesbian cowboi frolics.

In My Skin – A red hot encounter in a tattoo parlour when a scared partner has a sexy tattoo experience.

The Real Thing – A hot meeting between two women after months of internet dating games.

Love On The Line – Two lovers missing each other after weeks apart play phone sex games.

Aim To Please – Fun and games in an adult video and toy store.

Worth The Wait – A hot bartender and one of her admirers finally get together for a red hot encounter.

Switching Sides A Novella

A young college girl gets her first taste of Sapphic love and can’t get enough.

Better With Age A Novella

Two mature women meet again twenty years after their hot teenage love affair.

The stories in this book are vastly varied in content. They do however have one thing in common. They are extremely well written and they are hot, smoking hot.

I have to confess, that I haven’t read a lot of erotica. But of the few books I have read, I have enjoyed this one the best. Why? Because the stories are written realistically and tastefully, rather than just as sex for sex sake. I could actually picture these scenarios happening somewhere. Each and every story was enjoyable. Which for me is a real plus. Although this is the first Beth Wylde book I’ve read, it will not be the last. She has gained another fan.

Damaged in Service by Barrett

2012-01-09T14:33:00.000Z

FBI Special Agent Zeke Cabot is suffering from PTSD. She had just finished a gruelling undercover job, had a car accident causing a head injury and was at the end of her rope. Enough really was enough and she set off for a much earned extended vacation to New Mexico. Unfortunately, Zeke isn’t going to get the rest and relaxation she so badly needs.

When Zeke arrived in New Mexico she bumped into an intriguing blond nurse, Anne Reynolds, not once but twice. As fate would have it, there was a third time when Zeke and Anne met. This time while Anne was out riding her horse, she came across Zeke after she had been involved in a hiking accident and she found herself looking down the barrel of Zeke’s gun. After Anne gets over the shock she arranges to take Zeke to the hospital and then home with her to look after her. The two women begin to get to know one another. Anne finds herself struggling with her feelings towards Zeke. She has not long been through a nasty divorce with a man and has never been attracted to a woman before, until now. What can be happening to her? Zeke is also struggling with her feelings towards Anne. Anne is straight and therefore unavailable, isn’t she?

Meanwhile, on Zeke’s job front, all is not well. There are questions unanswered from her previous assignment. Enquiries are being made about Zeke’s whereabouts by persons unknown. She is called into the local FBI office, but can’t shed any light as to who is trying to locate her or why she is being sought out.

Anne and Zeke continue to get to know each other better and to begin to pursue the possibilities of having a relationship. They go away for a romantic weekend in Taos and are attacked by two men and Zeke is assaulted. Fortunately the FBI find them and think the two men are connected to Zeke’s previous case. The experience has set Zeke back though and all her insecurities return. What will happen now? Will Anne and Zeke continue their fledgling relationship? Will Anne be able to help Zeke get over her PTSD? Will their attackers be caught?

I Have to say I was totally hooked on this story from the very beginning of the book.
The opening sentences are just a tiny taste of the excitement to come. This is Barrett’s first book in a series. It is a fast paced story with lovely scenic descriptions. I not only lost myself in the story, but the scenery as well. There is a nice cast of supporting characters. T.J, Zeke’s friend pops up from time to time, it is obvious they are long term best friends. It would be nice to see more of her in the sequels. The various FBI agents are just as I would imagine them to be. So are the baddies.

I only have one gripe about this excellent book, it did not conclude and I don’t do waiting for sequels very well. But yes, I will have to wait. I want the next book though, sooner rather than later. A brilliant debut book.

Circus by J.M Dragon

2012-01-09T14:24:00.001Z

Rita Collins had all but given up any chances of making a life for herself. After the death of her parents, she put all her energy in to helping her younger sister, Angel, to bring up her seven year old son, Charlie. Rita is an accountant and when the local mill closed down, she found herself out of a job. There isn’t many job opportunities around, so when she sees a flyer advertising for an accountant, she quickly arranges an interview. Rita had no idea that the job is with Garmancelli’s circus, or that if she takes it, she will have to travel around. She returns home despondent, resigning herself to not accepting the job if it’s offered. She can’t abandon Angel and Charlie.

However, Angel has life changing news for Rita, she’s going to marry Charlie’s father. Free of her obligations, Rita accepts the job and joins the circus.

Neve Garmancelli, circus owner, has spent the twenty years since her father’s death working year round, all hours just to keep the circus afloat. She gave up her own career as a top notch trapeze artist to do this. She leads a very lonely existence. After her uncle died, she found herself unable to manage the circus accounts and gave her brother, Lorenzo, the task of finding an accountant.

When Rita and Neve meet, there is no love lost between them. But as time passes, the two women form a tentative friendship. When Rita begins to delve into the accounts, she finds evidence of fraud and family betrayal. She has to impart this knowledge to Neve, knowing that it will cause her heart break and distress.

Will Neve trust Rita enough to accept her findings? What will happen to the circus now? Adding into this is the turmoil Rita is feeling regarding her growing attraction towards Neve. Rita knows that Neve is a lesbian, but she has never felt attracted to a woman before. What is happening to her? Neve herself is struggling with her own feelings towards the straight, untouchable Rita. What if anything, will happen between Rita and Neve?

As with all books I’ve read by J.M Dragon, I was into the story from the first page. The storyline in this book certainly had me hooked, I found it very hard to put the book down. The writing as always is excellent. The interaction between Rita and Neve made me want to read much more about them. The setting for the story is brilliant. All the fun of behind the scenes of the circus and much more. Plus the added bonus of the supporting cast of characters. All very believable. I eagerly look forward to more from J.M Dragon.

Emily's Art and Soul

2012-01-09T14:22:00.001Z

Emily Sanders life is changing drastically. She has not long divorced and moved from Rochester to Syracuse. Her mother has not long passed away. Her father is drinking too much and can’t cope with his own life, let alone the life of his Downs daughter, Mindy. So Emily steps in and with her father’s agreement has her sister Mindy to come and live with her. Emily has a new job teaching art at Freemont High School. It’s at the school, that Emily meets math teacher Andi Marino. They become fast friends right away. Andi informs Emily that she is a lesbian so there can be no misunderstandings. It’s not long after this that Emily begins to question her own sexuality. On a weekend visit home to see her father, Emily meets Sarah and suddenly everything clicks smoothly into place. It feels so right to Emily to be kissing another woman. When Emily returns to Syracuse, she tells Andi all about her weekend away and Sarah. Andi is devastated by her news as she’s more than liked Emily since they first met. But being the good friend that she is smiles and wishes Emily luck. When Emily and Sarah don’t work out, Emily and Andi play a cat and mouse game around each other for quite sometime. Andi knows she wants Emily. But will Emily ever realize that the person she wants is right there? Will Emily realize the love she could have with Andi? Or will Emily continue searching for a love she won’t find with anyone other than Andi?

This book is wonderfully written. It’s all about making and adapting to changes in your life. The two main characters, Emily and Andi are simply made for each other. I was really hoping they would get together from the outset. Emily’s sister, Mindy played a big part in the book too and was so lovable, that she added a warmth all of her own to the story. I was in tune with this book from the very first page through to the last page. I really didn’t want this book to end. It’s a definite re-read. I look forward to more from Joy soon.

Waking Up Gray by R.E Bradshaw

2012-01-09T14:21:00.000Z

Lizbeth Jackson, aged forty and divorced is finally free. Free from her sham of a marriage, free from her cheating ex husband and free to lead her own life in any way she wants to.

She arrives on Ocracoke Island from her home in Durham to spend the following few months studying the Carolina brogue for her masters degree. She is at last fulfilling her dream which had been put on hold all these years after Lizbeth married James and had her daughter Mazie at nineteen. Mazie was the one good thing to come out of the marriage.

Lizbeth is renting her late aunt Minnie's cottage from her cousins. Although Lizbeth hasn't been to Ocracoke Island for years, she soon settles in to life on the island, helped by her aunt's friend, Fanny O'Neal, from the cottage opposite.

When Lizbeth sees Fanny's granddaughter outside kissing a woman one night, Lizbeth can't get the sight out of her head. When Lizbeth meets Gray over at Fanny's cottage, Gray starts flirting with her and Lizbeth can't help feeling attracted to her.

Lizbeth and Gray begin to spend time together and Lizbeth finds herself falling for Gray in a big way. She decides to throw caution to the wind and go with her feelings. So what if Gray is a woman and Lizbeth has only ever been out with men? Gray however, doesn't want to allow herself to fall in love. She knows Lizbeth will leave the island to go back to her life in Durham and she feels she can't take the hurt and pain this would cause her. Gray has been hurt badly in the past. She knows what she feels for Lizbeth now would break her heart beyond repair if she actually fell in love with her totally.

But the inevitable happens, Lizbeth and Gray sleep together and they fall in love. But the course of their love is to be rudely interrupted by an ex lover turning up, just when things are going so well. The course of events that follow could have a tragic outcome. Will Lizbeth and Gray's love be able survive the consequences of the events that follow?

At last, another delightful romance from the pen of R.E Bradshaw. For me the moral of this book is that yes, life can really begin at forty. Yes, you can start over again from scratch. This book gives hope for anyone that finds themselves in this situation. It is very true to everyday life. This book is wonderfully refreshing and a real must for lovers of fine romance. The descriptions of Ocracoke Island just made me want to book a holiday there. The book is so well written and descriptive, that as a reader I felt at ease among the characters, just like I was viewing it all as it actually happened among friends. I was right there with them. The characters are adorable. The book is a real page turner from the very first page right through to the last page. After each book from R.E Bradshaw, I wonder how she can top the last one, how she can make her stories any better? Well, I have to say she manages it somehow, all her books are nothing but consistently good. I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite among R.E Bradshaw's books. I adore them all. They will always have a permanent place on my book shelves, this one included.

Scarlet Masquerade by Jett Abbott

2012-01-07T10:45:00.001Z

AJ Lockwood, aka Alexandra Locke is a lesbian vampire. She lives her life among the living and owns her own successful pharmaceutical company that manufactures the blood　tablets she needs to survive. No more human feeding for AJ. Clarissa Graham, aka Clarissa Dumonte is also a vampire, she used to be Alexandra,　(AJ’s) lover many years previously in France. That was before Clarissa became a vampire though. Alexandra (AJ) thought Clarissa　had died from the plague. She spent many years mourning the death of her soul mate, the only woman she　had truly loved. AJ has　had flings with other women since, but would not allow herself to to fall in love and have a meaningful relationship. Then one night in a lesbian bar, AJ sees a woman she thinks is Clarissa. But this must　be impossible, Clarissa　is dead, isn’t she? AJ is now on a mission, she is determined to find out if the woman is Clarissa. How could this be? AJ will leave no stone unturned in her quest to find out the identity of this woman. There is also the question that if she is Clarissa, who had turned her into a vampire? As the investigation gets underway, AJ finds out there is someone else following the woman she believes to be Clarissa. But who? Why is someone out to kill Clarissa? So many questions that need answering. But who can AJ trust to protect　her from this unknown assailant?

A vampire story　full of suspense, intrigue and betrayal. Very well written, a vampire story with a bit of bite and a twist. The supporting characters are brilliant. I loved Selene and her interaction with AJ. I found myself hoping from the beginning　that Clarissa would be 　AJ’s lover from the past. It was good that we get to go back to the past to find out how AJ and Clarissa’s lives had been before. The transition between the past and the present was very well done, no wondering if the story was past or present. This for me was a real page turner. The ending of the story is complete, but there is an opening for a sequel. I am really hoping this will be the case. I haven’t had anywhere near enough of AJ and Clarissa yet.

Redemption by Dejay

2012-01-07T10:44:00.000Z

Architect Mackenzie Taylor, (Mac) has been grieving for her wife Isabella and daughter Bella for the past five years. Mac can’t move on and what’s more, she doesn’t even want to. She considers herself still married. Her vows were taken and she is determined she will honor them for all eternity and beyond. Mac blames herself for their deaths, she was at a business meeting when Isabella and Bella were taken from their home, tortured and murdered. Now Mac has thrown herself into her work and most importantly, into making Isabella’s dreams come true.

Mac also volunteers at the local women’s crisis center and runs team Bella, a baseball team for special needs children. All of Isabella’s ideas being put into practice.

Mac just existed from day to day and then she met Emily O’Brien. Emily is a widow and she’s straight. Emily is new in town and is opening a business, KK’s Book Emporium. Emily lives over the store with her two grandchildren, Kaitlin and Kylie. Emily’s daughter, Melanie had been killed by a drunk driver. Melanie’s partner, Renee wasn’t capable of looking after the children, she’s an alcoholic and a mean one at that.

When Mac and Emily meet, they become friends. Mac loves Kaitlin and Kylie. It isn’t long before Mac begins to feel more than she should for Emily too. What will happen? Emily is straight, right? Mac is still married to Isabella, right? How can she be falling for Emily? Will there be any chance of love?

Phew, my goodness, this book is a true page turner. There are lots of twists and turns. Please don’t let the fact that the theme of this book is domestic violence deter you from buying it. The way this story is told is with compassion, sympathy and understanding. It is obvious to me that the author has done a great deal of research into this subject.

The main character is Mac, a person so eaten up with grief for her wife and daughter, she is merely a walking shell.

Emily is grieving for her daughter and trying to stay strong for her grandchildren. Then there is Renee, although she’s a drunk, she is suffering too. In between all the heartache and anguish, the story has a lighter side when love shines through the darkness.

There are lots of other characters all playing their parts to perfection.

This is a debut book, much to my surprise. DeJay has started out with a strong well written and extremely powerful book. She chose a difficult subject to write about, one which may not be well received by all. But I urge you to give this book a try. I couldn’t put it down. I’m surprised my Kindle didn’t over heat. This is a definite re-read. It needs and deserves to be read again to fully appreciate the book. A book that may give someone the hope for redemption, the hope that they will be able to have a better love filled life. DeJay will be hard pressed to top this book. I eagerly await her next offering.

Fearless by Erin O'Reilly

2012-01-07T10:42:00.000Z

This book tells the story of a diverse group of women who all had one thing in common, their love of flying. It tells the story of how each of them came to join the Air Transport Auxiliary, the ATA, at the beginning of the second world war. The ATA was not well received by some of the male pilots and sometimes the women found themselves in danger from those that should be their allies. They began by flying the small Tiger Moths then Spitfires. By the end of WW11 they were flying all airplanes that were used in the war.

We have Australian Brenda who lived in poverty and was beaten and abused by her father. She was found by Sarah on one of her air record breaking trips. Sarah eventually returns to Australia, rescues Brenda and takes her to England, where she teaches her to fly. There is Meg from Ireland. Her Uncle Shamus taught her to fly. Unfortunately, she is destined to marry according to her families wishes. Her Uncle Shamus persuades Meg’s mother to let him take her to England, where he ensures she gets more flying hours in to enable her to apply for the ATA. Lady Millicent is English gentry, but her love of flying and her overwhelming wish to serve her country, makes her choose between flying and being with her family. Jo and Midge are American’s. Midge persuades Jo to go to England and join the ATA.

All these women and others too, form part of an all women’s branch of the ATA in Southampton. We read of their courage as they ferry sometimes barely airworthy planes, without communications or the means to defend themselves, from one place to another to free up male RAF pilots for battle.

All these women had to help them was the notes made by their comrades from previous flights. They never gave up and flew on in the face of their enemies.

The story has both excitement, adventure and romance. A story of courage, love and loss. We are given a tasteful insight into the lives of these courageous women who did a dangerous but necessary job, for little recognition.

I thoroughly enjoyed the story. It was nice to have the background on the characters as it made me feel as though I knew each of them personally. The story is primarily about the women and the job they do, but does have a nice touch of romance as well. Definitely a book I would re read.

Just Tonight by Syd Parker

2012-01-07T10:40:00.001Z

After the deaths of her son Josh and his wife Megan, forty five year old Adrienne Thomas suddenly finds herself the guardian of her two month old granddaughter, Emma. Pat, Adrienne’s partner of fifteen years, decides she can’t handle bringing up a baby, so she leaves Adrienne and Emma.

Adrienne makes the decision to take Emma and go back home to her mother and the town she grew up in. It’s here that she meets Dylan Montgomery.

Forty Five year old Dylan Montgomery is retired army and after a life changing event, is now working as a park ranger. Dylan has had an abusive childhood. She has spent her whole life running from her past. Dylan has vowed never to fall in love, if she doesn’t, she can’t get her heartbroken, right?

When Adrienne and Dylan meet, there is an obvious attraction between them. But they both play a cat and mouse game. That is until they are thrown together at a remote cabin for the night during a storm.

Will Adrienne and Dylan give into temptation? Or will one or both of them be too stubborn to take a chance on what might be?

This is the first Syd Parker book I’ve read. What an absolute delight. Although the format follows the typical lesbian romance layout, the story is gripping, well written and very hot. Sizzling in fact.

I love both Adrienne and Dylan. I was rooting for them from the very first moment they met. The rest of the characters each play their own parts in enhancing and furthering the story. There are twists and turns throughout, but then the path of true love rarely runs smoothly. It’s obvious to the reader that Adrienne and Dylan are soul mates. But both women are afraid to take a chance on love due to various happenings in both their pasts.

I loved the scenic descriptions, the whole book gave me the feeling of being there with the characters. A lovely feeling. I will certainly be looking to buy the rest of Syd’s books now.

Love's Abiding Spirit by Syd Parker

2012-01-07T10:39:00.000Z

Thirty six year old songwriter Soren Lockhart has been on a downward spiral since her wife walked out on her two years previously taking their daughter Olivia with her. Soren’s ex, Victoria had decided she wanted Olivia to grow up in a ‘straight’ environment and that Soren would not be allowed to have any contact with Olivia at all.

When Soren’s agent offered her a vacation at her home in Savannah, Soren decided while she was there, that she would buy a run down Victorian house and move out there permanently. So, she moved to Savannah in a last ditch attempt to heal the pain and suffering she was still going through.

Soren’s best friends, Jordan, her partner Ali and Brett and his wife Lauren are upset by Soren’s decision, but they know she has to do something to heal the pain and to get her life back on track again.

Contractor Merritt Tanner, is hired by Soren to restore her house to it’s former glory. Merritt is in an unhappy relationship. Unhappy with her partner Kate, due to Kate’s affair, Merritt blames herself and can’t bring herself to end their relationship, even though Kate drinks far too much. Directly she meets Soren, she feels an attraction towards her. But Merritt must put her feelings aside. She isn’t a free woman. Unknown to Merritt though, Soren is having similar feelings.

While Soren is exploring her house, she finds a journal that had belonged to one of the previous occupants. Soren decides to find out more about the author of the journal. The more Soren reads, the more convinced she becomes that the mysterious author of the journal, Samantha, is still around.

As time passes, Soren and Merritt are really feeling the pull of attraction. Merritt knows she must do something about her ‘dead in the water relationship’. But even if she does, she still can’t pursue anything with Soren. She can’t risk hurting her. What will happen? Will Soren pursue Merritt? Will Merritt sort out her relationship with Kate? Will Merritt leave Kate? Will Soren find out more about Samantha? Is Samantha still around? Or is Soren imagining her presence? Will there ever be a chance of love for Soren and Merritt? Or will Soren end up with another broken heart? After all, both Soren and Merritt have to get over their pasts to be able have a future.

Another winner here for Syd Parker. I absolutely loved the book. Right from the first page through to the last. It’s like hovering above and watching the scene’s play out. There is a terrific cast of characters. I loved Gay, her sense of humor was phenomenal. The hint of the supernatural was great. Not out of place in the book at all. I thought the ‘is there/isn’t there’ way the supernatural part was written was tastefully done and not overbearing, in what started out as a normal romance. We are left to make our own conclusions.

The way Syd wrote the two romances in to this story, each one separated by time was excellent. All written with a touch of humor. If you love a nice romance, with a little extra, put this one on your list.

Secrets of the Heart by Syd Parker

2012-01-07T10:37:00.000Z

Pilot Chase Berkley, has been best friends with Avery Carson since they were young children.

When Chase loses her job after having split up with her boyfriend, she decides now is the time to visit Avery in Maine and to see Serendipity, the bed and breakfast she has invested some of her money in to.

Unfortunately, before Chase can get to Maine, she receives a phone call from Avery’s mom, Barb, Avery is dead, she’s been killed in a car accident. With a heavy heart, Chase sets out to Maine to join Avery’s parents, Barb and Joe for her funeral.

It’s not until the funeral is taking place, that Chase learns she didn’t know Avery as well as she thought she did. Avery was gay and her business associate Tess, the woman helping her to run Serendipity, was actually her lover and life partner. Chase is understandably hurt that Avery hadn’t confided her. Then Barb drops another bombshell on Chase. Avery had been keeping another secret from her. How will Chase react when Avery’s secret is revealed?

Chase decides to stay on in Maine and help Tess to run Serendipity. After a rocky beginning, the two women become firm friends.

At the reading of Avery’s will, Chase meets lawyer Jude Stafford, she is immediately captivated by her. How can this be? Chase is straight, isn’t she?

Jude is a womanizer, she rarely sees the same woman twice. When Jude meets Chase, she feels a strong pull of attraction for her. Will Jude allow herself to change her self imposed rules of never getting involved? Will Jude allow herself to pursue happiness with Chase? As it stands right now, the answer is no.

Chase has put her heart out there for Jude to take. Will Jude remain stubborn and steadfast? Can Chase and Jude even be friends when they both feel so much more for each other?

Chase and Jude spend a lot of time playing a cat and mouse game, with Chase chasing Jude and Jude running away. What will happen if Chase stops chasing? Will Jude stop running long enough to see what they could have together? The situation comes to a head after a terrible accident. What has happened? Who has been hurt?

Wow, this book is a real page turner from start to finish. The beginning of the book started out very sad. But as the story progressed it lightened up a lot and became humorous. Especially after Chase met bad girl Jude. At first I disliked Jude’s character. But I think we are meant to. It’s not until I read Jude’s personal story that I warmed towards her and began to like her a lot. I couldn’t help hoping that Chase and Jude would end up together.

Each of the supporting characters played their parts throughout the story and interacted well with the two main characters. All enhanced the book in their own ways.

The plot was well thought out and the story well written. A typical ‘feel good at the end romance’. Which is what I like. So, if you want a good read with a happy ever after ending, give this book a try. Excellent for curling up with on a cold winter evening, or taking to the beach for that matter.

Immediate Possession by Syd Parker

2012-01-07T10:35:00.000Z

Successful realtor Regan Sloan is hot, she owns her own company. So why is it so difficult for her to find the woman of her dreams? All Regan wants is a loving partner to spend her life with. Surely it isn’t too much to ask for? Unfortunately, Regan always seems to fall for the wrong women, straight women.

Still reeling from her encounter with Keely, the straight woman she’d fallen in love with, Regan bumps into Darcy Grey at her local bar. Regan is smitten with Darcy right away. That is until Darcy gets a text from her fiancé, Riley. Regan watched her hopes once more come crashing down around her.

Charge Nurse Darcy Grey was at a bachelorette party when she met Regan. As Darcy and Regan chatted, Darcy began to feel things an ‘engaged to a man’ woman shouldn’t be feeling for another woman. Nothing could ever come of her feelings. Darcy has lost too much in life after losing her parents and her beloved grandparents. Even though Darcy is uncertain of her love for Riley, she simply can’t risk losing him too.

What will happen? Will Regan fight for Darcy knowing she could end up with heartache? Will Darcy stay with Riley even though he makes her unhappy and she doesn’t love him? Will Regan and Darcy ever take a chance on love together?

A nice hot and steamy romance with some wonderful characters. From the time Regan and Darcy met I was hoping they would get together. There are always reasons as to why they can’t be together though. I felt like shaking Darcy at times to urge her to go with her feelings. But the cat and mouse game they play is essential to the story. There is a great cast of friends, all of which play their own parts to perfection. Regan’s mom, Carrie, is lovely. If only all mom’s were like her.

The story is written with a great sense of humor. I loved this book and I look forward very much to reading the rest of Syd’s books soon. In my opinion, Syd Parker has the ability to be a top selling lesbian author.

Broken Shield by Isabella

2012-01-07T10:33:00.001Z

Ex paramedic Tyler Jackson’s life is on a downward spiral. Since the untimely deaths of her cop wife Jill whilst on duty, followed two weeks later by her mother in a car accident, nothing matters to her anymore. Not even her career change to fire fighter. She is hell bent on self destruction. She drives her car too fast, drives her motor cycle on a death wish, and goes into fires, taking risks where other fire fighters fear to tread. She screws and tosses aside any woman she can get her hands on and with her butch good looks, that’s plenty. Until she meets Ashley Henderson.

Ashley Henderson is a cop. She loves her job. But Ashley is hiding a dark secret which is about to devastate her life along with Tyler’s life too.

When Tyler and Ashley first meet, Tyler feels an attraction for her right away and asks her out. Tyler’s best friend and Ashley’s cop partner Kelly, has already warned Ashley that Tyler is a player. Ashley takes heed of her friends warning and turns Tyler down flat.

But the two women are thrown together by a near death experience for them both. From which they both have a long struggle to recover.

Will Tyler and Ashley be able to move on from their past lives to find the love they both so badly need, or will both their pasts come back to haunt them and get in the way of true love?

A well written, well told, engrossing and exciting story with a nice romance and some smoking hot romantic scenes to spice things up. Sizzling in fact.

There are some sensitive issues covered in this book, all written with sympathy and understanding. The emotions of both the main characters, Tyler and Ashley radiate off the page and I could feel their angst myself. It takes a very special piece of writing for me to feel choked up.

There are some great supporting characters too. Kelly, Tyler’s friend and Ashley’s work partner, plays a big part in the lives of both women. Tyler’s fire fighter friends add to the story and bring some light hearted humor into it.

From the first page, I knew I was going to really enjoy this book. How can you say that, I hear you ask? Just read the opening lines of the prologue and find out. After that, I just couldn’t put the book down until I’d turned the last page.

Another winner for the up and coming lesbian fiction author, Isabella.

Before it Stains by R.E Bradshaw

2012-01-07T10:32:00.000Z

Stephanie Austin, (Steph), is living the perfect life. She is totally and utterly madly in love with her wife, Mo. They have been together for seventeen years. They have a lovely teenage son, Colt, a loving family, nice house, good jobs, lots of friends. Life could not be any better for them. That is until Mo cheats on Steph. Steph’s world comes crashing down around her. She always thought her and Mo would be together forever. She trusted Mo implicitly. Will Steph ever be able to forgive Mo?

Dr Maureen Hunt, (Mo), is an aspiring film maker as well as teacher at a university. She has finally realized her dream and will be heading to Los Angeles to make a film. Unfortunately, Mo has a one night drunken indiscretion with her agent, Michaela. An indiscretion that Michaela in going to ensure Steph finds out about.

Mo has no idea of Michaela’s scheme. In fact, Mo is doing all she can to avoid Michaela. What will happen next between Mo and Michalea? It’s obvious Michaela isn’t done with Mo yet.

All hell breaks loose when Steph discovers Mo’s infidelity. Steph has to keep a tight rein on her emotions for the sake of their son, Colt. She has to protect him. But can she? She is totally devastated and not thinking rationally.

When Mo returns home that evening and discovers Steph knows about her and Michaela, she begs for forgiveness. Steph can’t find it in herself to forgive Mo though and throws her out. Will Steph ever be able to trust Mo again? The answer is no, not right now.

Mo reluctantly leaves for L.A to fulfil her contract. Steph decides she will get on with her life. Heartbroken, she rethinks the direction her life has come from and where she wants it to go. But will Mo be with her? Steph is now on a mission. Changes have to be made. But what will the consequences of those changes bring about?

This is a book about commitment and forgiveness. The questions are, can a marriage survive the betrayal of one of the partners? Will the other person be able to forgive the indiscretion? Was there something wrong in the relationship?

This book is full of love, joy, laughter, tears, loving family life, loyal friends, anxiety, hurt, betrayal, hope, forgiveness and humor throughout.

The two main characters, Steph and Mo are so well suited to one another, that even though Mo cheated on Steph, I couldn’t help hoping they would get back together. In my opinion, R.E Bradshaw has written their parts so that we are meant to hope for this. This goes against all my previous thoughts on the subject of infidelity. So, she has certainly penned a powerful piece of writing here.

We also have the pleasure of seeing characters from some of R.E Bradshaw’s previous books. Each and every character is essential to moving the story forward and to enhance the story. I won’t put any spoilers in here. But Steph’s ex girlfriend makes an appearance and we discover more about her life. Having said that, this book is a standalone. No need to have read any of the others first. But you will be missing out on some excellent books if you don’t read them.

Steph has to make decisions that will affect not only herself, but her teenage son too. She has to do what is right for all. But can she go on with her life the way it was? Of course the answer is no, changes have to be made. But it’s how the changes are made that makes this book what it is.

First and foremost this is an excellent story, one that could happen to any of us in a relationship. Second is the effect on others around. Third is whether the mess can be mopped up before it stains forever and the situation can never be resolved. The fourth and most important message for me in this book is to never be too complacent, never take your partner or your life for granted. Keep the romance alive. Although this book is a work of fiction, many things can be learned from it.

Another winning book, that would in my opinion make an excellent film. The final question to be asked is, when is your next book due out Ms Bradshaw? Sooner rather than later, I hope.

New Beginnings by JM Dragon and Erin O'Reilly

2012-01-07T10:30:00.000Z

This is a book that is split up into two parts. It tells the story of the lives of two sisters that had never met each other and were not aware of each others existence. The first born sister was abandoned by her mother and father when she was six weeks old and left with an uncle. The younger sister grew up in a household where her mother was cold and distant towards her.

The story begins with Lauren Walker, the second born sister. Lauren is a doctor involved in research. Her life isn’t as satisfying as she would like it to be. She is missing the one thing she needs, love.

Lauren takes a vacation at her cabin in the woods near the river, to think about how to change her life. It is here that she meets Maggie Sullivan, after Maggie has an accident canoeing.

Maggie Sullivan works for a company that develops small towns into larger, busier towns, losing all the towns rustic charms in the process.

When Lauren and Maggie first meet, there is an immediate mutual attraction between the two of them.

What will happen when Lauren discovers that Maggie’s company may change the small town she loves forever?

There is yet another development when Lauren discovers her mother has been hiding a secret from her all her life, she has a sister. The secret Victoria Walker has hidden all these years has far reaching consequences for all concerned.

Victoria now wants to meet the daughter she abandoned. But will Lauren’s sister want to know?

Harriet Aristides, (Harry) is fully aware of the circumstances surrounding her abandonment. Harry grew up with her namesake, her Uncle Harry. Harry is a successful business woman and is head of a pharmaceutical company. Harry lives and breathes only for her work after losing her partner Abby and their unborn child in a tragic car accident.

Harry unexpectedly finds herself going on a field trip with her team of scientists. Amongst them is Nicky Ralston. Harry finds Nicky attractive and the feeling is reciprocated. Unfortunately, Harry can’t let go of Abby, so she can’t move on.

Nicky, herself, is concealing a big secret. One which will have to be revealed before they reach their destination. A secret, which when discovered may well pull the two women apart forever.

I really enjoyed this book, in fact it wasn’t long enough for me. I didn’t want either of the two stories to end when they did.

Both stories moved along at a fast pace.

The two main characters in the first story, Lauren and Maggie, got together really quickly. They each knew what they wanted and set out to get it. There was a great cast of supporting characters that were each in their own way crucial to the story. The storyline was intriguing. There was a lot packed into this story, which I had to keep up with because it is obvious it has an affect on the second story.

The second part of this book flowed seamlessly along. As in the first story, I loved the two main characters, Harry and Nicky. There is also a strong supporting cast of characters, each in their own way, progressing the story.

Both stories, although concluded, have left some really nice openings for a sequel. All four main characters have a lot more to tell. I’m really hoping J.M Dragon and Erin O’Reilly have a sequel planned.

THE SECRET OF LIGHTHOUSE POINTE by Patty G Henderson

2012-01-07T10:26:00.000Z

Constance Beechum is in despair. Dismissed from her job and with no means to support herself, she is considering ending her miserable life. A timely letter from her uncle with the offer of employment changes everything for her. If she takes up the offer, she will be employed as a nurse to the old and dying Lady Elizabeth Gerard at Gerard House in Castine. En route from Boston to Castine, Constance meets George Kane and considers him to be quite the dandy and very attentive to her. Why, she can't imagine.

On arrival at Gerard House, Constance meets the brothers Edward and Roger and Edward's wife, Catherine. It is clear from the outset that they do not want her there, although Roger seems to feel that Constance would make a good bed wench for himself. Constance has other ideas though and rebuffs his advances. When Constance finally meets Lady Elizabeth, they find they are well suited as employer/employee and much to the family's disgust Constance is kept on.

Constance begins to feel that the rambling old house is creepy, and starts to feel scared, then she sees lights in the Lighthouse Pointe cove, which can't be explained.

The biggest surprise to Constance is when George Kane turns out to be a close friend of Lady Elizabeth. She finds herself becoming more drawn and intrigued by him. How can that be so? Constance is a confirmed lesbian. So many questions and no answers are forthcoming. What is the secret of Lighthouse Pointe?

This book is totally different from any of Patty's previously published works. It is a historical gothic style romance set in the year 1812. Different is definitely good though. Patty has captured the whole concept of the dark brooding mansion, hero/heroine scenario, perfectly. The hairs actually rose up on the back of my neck and down my spine while reading this book. From the very first lines on the first page, I was hooked. The opening lines are hard hitting and just made me want to read on and on. As the story progressed, I felt as though I was actually a bystander observing at close quarters, rather than actually reading the book. At one point I'm sure my blood pressure rose significantly. I wanted to shout and shake one of the characters. A true sign of a good story for me to react in this way. This book contains both intrigue and romance. Once I started it, I just couldn't put it down. I hope Patty has another offering for us soon.