Passionate, romantic, mature
934341
What I love about Halftime is the author's commitment to focusing on the passionate relationship between Devontae and Shai. It's like the world stops for their romance. Instead of introducing conflict at every little point, we're treated to the experience of mature men and women dealing with sexuality and family.  It's a fun, hopeful read and I'm looking forward to the follow up book.
4470270
There's been a plethora of student-teacher romances, many of which followed a similar route, but this is genuinely unique and so full of chemistry, romance and passion that it is one of the best romances I've read in ages.

I liked the fact that this book has interesting subplots (Mrs Price's illness, the community, Eloise's parents and her future dreams), not to mention the coming-of-age element to it.

The romance is NOT rushed, but nicely paced so that you're on the receiving end of lots of tingles and warm-fuzzies due to the blast of chemistry hitting superseding the staid act of reading.

THE BEST PART OF THE BOOK IS THE PACE OF THE ROMANCE - IT'S AN AMAZING BUILD-UP.

THERE IS NOOOOOO INSTA-LUST but AWESOME ROMANCE

It's JAM-PACKED WITH CHEMISTRY as Eloise and Isaac become friends.

I also liked the fact that the author was able to build a foundation of friendship between the characters without it losing the chemistry, sparks and steam between them. It doesn't become a dry dull relationship, the taboo element keeps it HOT.

I love how they deny each other, are reluctant to claim their feelings, the sneaking glances, accidental touches, the eloquent words. It's stunning in it's simplicity, the nuanced dialogue and casual banter.

I LOVED THE BANTER

The Characters aren't your typical over-dramatic, angst-y, annoying types. Eloise is your typical teen but not annoying. And Isaac is your typical 29-yo who likes the odd joke, and living the bachelor existence.

I highly recommend!
3817269
Wow, this story is realistic, raw, gritty, fun, and romantic !!  Deep thought filled characters, an interesting tale, and hot sexiness with some light BDSM, all make this worthwhile.  We love the characters immediately.  Kelly Robak is strong, hard, and macho.  Erin is sweet, but tired and angry that she's always responsible, and not carefree. For 6 years she took care of her ailing Aunt, and then her sister and nephew, Amber and Jack.  Kelly is a bit older, and settled, and knows what he wants.  Erin needs to stop coddling Amber, and getting between Marco and her sister.  Marco is her nephew's father and has an on and off relationship with Amber.  When Erin steps in, she gets a black eye, bruises, and police involvement.  Furious Kelly wants to beat the guy, and does get to "talk" to him later.  He fixes her broken down car, so does she have someone to depend on?  Their relationship is a realistic story of pasts, the way events shaped them, how they became who they are, and how they want to be.  True grit, emotional talks, well described sex and the realness of it is awesome.  Once Erin realizes that Kelly is not flighty, and that she needs him, and wants him, and has him to lean on, she must let go of her negativity.  There is always hope, yearning, chances, and love around each corner.
This story doesn't have the amazing billionaire, or mansions on a hill.  It has real, solid, caring people.  People who work, have emotions, worries, heartfelt dreams, and are looking for steady, reliable, unconditional love.
Well written, highly recommended, E N J O Y !!!
3885850
This author never fails to deliver a great story with charming characters that are likeable and draws me into the setting so I can imagine being there. This is a mature adult  romance that is passionate, yet sexually clean, but there are some curse words.
1944681
I've been bemoaning the lack of real romance with a warm love story in most recent HRs.  Well, this one has it in spades and I truly enjoyed reading it.  Yes, as a few reviewers before me have pointed out, Long doesn't have titles and the peerage mastered, but I can overlook the Duke of Falconbridge (our H) being called Moncrieffe throughout the book when he should be addressed as "Your Grace", "Duke" or "Falconbridge", depending on who's talking to him, and the young son of a viscount here (the character Harry) is only an "Honorable", not a "Lord".  You have to overlook a lot of inaccuracies and anachronisms in most mass market paperback HRs anyway.

The reason this isn't a 5-star book for me is that the whole story takes place at a house party and nothing much happens except for the romance.  (Apparently there is no pleasing me.  When there's not enough romance I complain, and here I have the romance I've been wanting and still I complain.) There's also an age discrepancy of almost 20 years between H and h, something I'm not usually fond of, but it works here because the young heroine isn't annoyingly immature or naive or TSTL.  And the hero is someone I could fall for, if he would ignore the reverse even larger age discrepancy between him and me.  He's a wonderfully complex character.

The book starts off well and caught my interest immediately. Long's writing is very good, her ability to describe things, people and emotions is much, much better than the average HR author's, and her characters' dialogue/conversation is witty, humorous and smart and her characters come alive on the page. The love story develops gradually and that's something I appreciate.  Instant sex by page 50 isn't my idea of romance.  So when this H and h do become intimate, you know that it's not just a physical thing.  (But, BTW, that physical thing between them is pretty smokin' hot.)

So the only reason for the 4 stars, rather than the 5 that the romance aspect deserves, is that I did become a bit bored by the breakfasts, picnics, strolls and card playing.  There wasn't much else going on.  However, that's certainly better than too much going on so I shouldn't be complaining.
2964885
I loved this book. I loved the old fashioned feel to it. I thought the formal language used was perfect for the older main character as the narrator, and as for him, I absolutely loved Hilary. When I realized the MC was 65, I was immediately worried I would have a really hard time getting into the story with a character so much older than Im used to reading about, but surprisingly, I never once doubted that Tom, as young as he was, could easily fall for him. Hes an honourable, kind, generous and thoughtful man. Who wouldnt long for those qualities in a partner? I found myself thinking about the book when I wasn't reading it, contemplating how they could be together and deciding for myself that a hale and healthy 65 year old had easily another twenty years in him, and isn't that a longer span for a relationship than many of us ever get to enjoy? I was convinced this was a love affair that had forever written all over it. And my conviction was born out with the story. The sex was sweet and in keeping with the narrators proper upbringing as well as his lusty desire for his younger lover. And the use of language was so indulgent. I rarely get to read a book with this kind of formal language that I can also enjoy the content, so it was a real treat for me. Loved, loved, loved it. Would be reading it again right now if I didn't still have books on my list.

Great love story, proving that love has no age limit
4392834
In Show Me The Way, two characters were running from past mistakes trying not to let the past define their future. Rex was a single father who devoted him time and energy to raise Frankie with love. He wasn't open to loving anyone other than Frankie. His heart was guarded. Rynna was back living in her grandmothers house, living in the small town she ran away from eleven years ago.

Rexs character was uninterested in a relationship with anymore women. Having lost two women who had meant something to him he decided to focus on his daughter instead. So when Rynna moved across the street from him grabbing the attention of his daughter Rex lost the battle of trying to keep women away.

I loved the way Amy created little steps, breaking down the wall of fear and mistrust in Rexs character.

The story had emotion, affection, heart, and warmth all the elements that make a great contemporary read. The supporting cast of characters were genuine, caring, and friendly. The words were laced with raw emotion, I could feel its power. The energy crackled with the lust these two characters tried to fight against. The story was romantic with elements of crazy lust and desire. I embraced and cherished the love shown in these characters. The bond and connection felt genuine.
1847085
I used the above reviews to aid me in purchasing this book and I'm sooo happy that I did.  PASSION employed all of the things that I want in a romance novel- lovable, engaging characters, hot sex and tear jerker emotion.  I simply could not put this book down!  Finally a romance novel that treats its reader like a mature adult that can handle the rawness of lust and love.  I recommend this book to all who love a good read that will last long after the  final page.  I am awaiting the arrival of PATIENCE in May 2007.  I am sure it will not disappoint.
3417740
I enjoyed it thoroughly!  This is a well-written and passionate story with multiple characters you're rooting for!  Great imagery.  Long live love!
345509
I gave this book 5 stars because it is well written, passionate and unexpected. On top of those things, the main characters are likable and relatable. I thought this story would just be about love between a girl and a boy, and I suppose it essentially is, but the story has much more depth than just first love between two adolescents.

Sky and Holder face a dark past that catches up with them, brings them together, and shows them that situations in life aren't always black and white. It's hard to say more than that without spoiling anything. So I'll just add that although this book is a young adult novel, it's on the mature side, and the reader should anticipate the characters handling very real issues. In my opinion, the raw and highly realistic nature of the story is the best part of this book.

I was immediately sucked into Sky's world. I felt what she felt as she felt it. So much so that I couldn't leave her to deal with everything on her own, so I read her story in one sitting and leant my shoulder for her to cry on as my eyes teared up with hers.

If you're looking for a dramatic contemporary novel that will make your gut wrench and strike you in your heart, then this one is for you.

Note: I got lucky and got this kindle book for free from Amazon.
2927435
Review : Finding Promise by Aneesa Price
 What a beautifully written romance. A few graphic sex scenes mean I will recommend this to mature readers only but they are written to enhance the romantic flow of the story and form a integral part of the story telling. I'm not big on pure, non plot driven romance but this is far from that. There is plenty of plot and story and emotion to keep you entertained all the way to the end. I hope Aneesa has plenty more books in store for the promise series. 5 stars all the way for this romantic beauty.
 ~ WaAr ~
4829448
A sweet rational passionate romance with details of real life woven into a wonderful story... very enjoyable with a warm sense meaning. The characters and settings amazingly authentic... I enjoyed it!
2464243
I'm not afraid of being temporary. I'm afraid of being a flash of lightning. You don't even seem capable of temporary.

If you're not a fan of menage type romances or love triangles, this may not be the book for you. It's written well and involves true emotion, but be aware that there are three souls integrated into this story.

Kayla is a talented ER nurse, not only dealing with the stress of patients and a snobby doctor, but also fending off the advances of the attractive, bike riding Dr. Dev. Fighting off the advances of such a man is not an easy task!

After a chance, life-saving encounter, Kayla is introduced to Dev's attractive, bike-racing, twin Reese. The two share a connection that cannot be denied, and when Reese demands Kayla be his recuperating nurse, and makes it worth her while, she reluctantly agrees.
Stuck in the home of the attractive Dr. Dev and dealing with the broody Reese, Kayla is stuck between two bad boys and a hard place. There is a blatant attraction to each of these men, but can Kayla choose just one?

This book is probably not for everyone and generally I'm not a fan of menage type romances, but I feel as though this one is written most realistically. It involved not only three bodies, but it involved three hearts. Feeling a strong connection to more than one individual can lead to hard choices.  Kayla is put right into such a mess. Although the trio seem to craft an arrangement which is satisfactory when they're all together, some time apart causes them to reevaluate their feelings. With a surprising ending, this book kept me until the end.

Some great action, intense feelings, sizzling love scenes, and a good story lead to my rating. I would've liked to delve a little more into several angles of the story such as the criminal activity and Kayla's past, the story flowed well without it. Hoping to see a bit more into the life of Sam *wink, wink.* Overall a feel-good read that leaves you with a surprising ending and a great deal to think about when considering love.
3344320
Terrific romance set in the world of today's music industry.  34 year old Samantha made it to the big time three years ago.  The Georgia native is far from home touring Australia with her band and the tour is about to end in two weeks.  33 year old Australian Julia is a highly regarded journalist for a popular entertainment magazine.  Julia has been divorced for 8 years and has no desire to get involved in a relationship any time soon.

This is a very passionate story as the two women are attracted to each other on every level.  They dance around their feelings. The atmosphere is heavily laden with wants and desires. Very well written.  The character development is very satisfying and the two main characters come with all the little details that make them a complete person to the reader.  I enjoyed this novel so much that a future short story involving the Julia and Samantha would be most welcome.

I especially enjoyed reading about women who were so self confident in themselves and their talents as they relate to their careers.

I found this a deeply satisfying read and not a simple lite hearted romp of a romance.

I wish there were more than three novels from this author

This is a Keeper!
1470941
***I received this book as a gift

Anya and the Shy Guy is a special, heart-warming romance. Its sweet, playful, and powerful.

PROS:
Anya is a wonderful character. Spunky, honest, she always says whats on her mind, is quick-witted, and adorable when flustered. A sweetheart with a strong voice, Anya uses her words to make a difference. Living on the streets has made Anya wary of trusting anyone. She pushes away romantic feelings for fear of sinister intentions. Anya cant open her heart, its a matter of survival that carried through from her time on the streets. Anyas anxiety, her constant scanning of her surroundings, how she treats food as something that needs to be stored for later, is all powerful and written extremely well. You get the feeling that though Anya suffered, her past is horrible, that she will not let it break her. Anya is incredibly strong and a wonderful role model. Anya is willing to work hard to succeed.

Anya and Will are deliciously awkward together. Theyve both got huge secrets and aren't sure who to trust. They fumble and make mistakes, its embarrassing, sometimes weird, and yeah the flirting gets a little lost but its more endearing than anything else. Once they start to learn each other, it heats up crazy quick. The chemistry is not overwhelming, its a nice, easy exploration that is laugh out loud hilarious and full of cute blunders.

Secondary characters are fully developed and memorable. The S2J guys are edgy, sexualized, sarcastic, and playful, everything youd expect from a bus full of boys. Natasha is a dazzling, inspiration lady who makes a great friend for Anya. I would have loved a whole book just on her.

Will (Matt) is flirty, sometimes shy, clumsy, and attentive. The way he moons over Anya is enough to make you melt. Will (Matt) is a kind guy who will go to any lengths to save his family and fool the band. Its laughable how bad he is at time sometimes, the mistaken lyrics are hilarious, and hes a romantic. The star-gazing, his casual touching, its a tasty combination that draws you in and doesnt let up.

CONS:
The ending felt rushed and conflict was easily resolved. There was hardly any resistance. The fact that Anya didn't at least pretend to reject the offer wasn't like her and conflicted with her character. Issues with Jude, the Cherry members sort of fizzled out at the end without much follow through though they were major plot instigators.

Sometimes Ellas character was a little confused. The phrasing made her sound British and other times Will (Matt) had an almost Southern accent. Yeah, hes from Jacksonville, so thats okay but it wasn't consistent for either character.
1393882
There is a bakery near my house that has hands-down the best chocolate cake in the world. It is decadent, but not overly so. It is rich and satisfying. There was a time where I was going there twice a week to get a taste of that cake. It was simply irresistable.

This book reminds me of that cake. It is a standout in a crowded romance field. The story is compelling, the characters have depth, the emotions run hot and there is sizzling chemistry, and it is well-written!

Lacey Meyers is a 36 year old, recently divorced, successful businesswoman who has lived the picture-perfect life with relatively little drama until her husband walked out. She is looking to experience a little more from life, a little more than having sex from the missionary position for the last 15 years. She finds Hunter at the hot bar in town. Hunter is a 28 year old police officer and experienced "player". He takes up the challenge to help Lacey experience many of her "firsts." What neither of them realized at the time is that no matter how they try to keep it "just about sex", intimacy can grow unexpectedly.

Lacey is incredibly likeable and relatable character. She is confident, funny, loving, and not overly dramatic. And because of her maturity and self-esteem, she is NOT needy. She doesn't overly lament her divorce and she is ready to move on. Though she does have doubts in this relationship, it does not stop her from living her life. Her life does not stop because a guy does not call. She is attractive both to Hunter (and the reader) because she knows who she is.

On the surface, Hunter exudes confidence and command presence. But underneath, he has his own concerns about differences in their age, and their social and economic status. It is interesting to watch how his self-doubt impacts this relationship.

There is a level of authenticity to this story. Lacey and Hunter balance each other well. This is not so much insta-love. The story takes place over several months. It is a story of discovery. It is not overly done - meaning, it doesn't rely on forced, contrived situations to up the drama level.

Rich. Emotionally satisfying. Simply irresistible. Period.
4569233
I read this story as part of my KU membership but l like it so much that I bought it.

There is so much I liked about the story story so I will narrow it down and talk about the things that I loved.

 I loved the hero. He was so loving and caring and devoted and sweet. He loved the heroine since she was born and never stopped. Rather his loved change from that of a surrogate uncle to that of a friend and finally of that of a lover. He was not a manhoe but rather the number is women he was with he could count on his hand. More importantly the last woman he was with was six months prior to realizing he had romantic feelings for the heroine. Talking about romantic, the hero was. The things that he did for her and said to her and acted showed it very clearly.  The heroine returned his feelings. Alls he ever wanted was someone to love him unconditionally and she did. Despite trying she never had  romantic feelings for anyone but him and like the hero, the heroine's devotion showed in her actions and words and thoughts. I loved that he rescued animals in his spare time. Loved it.

The smex scenes were hot and also at times romantic.  The only thing that I did not like were the separations but I could handle them because they were faithful to each other.

Her parent's story was riveting and what I wanted to happen for them did. From the HFN ending it appears that her parent's story will be told. I cannot wait to read it as well as the hero's brothers if the author writes them.