beauty and a quest to bring love and justice to her man and his way of ...
588523
I've read this twice now... it combines several scenarios, all equally well done. Tessa has brains, beauty and a quest to bring love and justice to her man and his way of life. Their first love scene was full of passion, respect and rawness. A must read.
238335
The Darkest Kiss is a real beauty and the beast tale. There's Lucien, the keeper of Death--scarred and tormented--and Anya, the goddess of anarchy--gorgeous and strong--who loves him. She sees past his scars and is able to love Lucien, as well as his demon. And Lucien is able to find comfort and happiness with Anya.

Lucien's demon is Death. He's tasked with escorting the souls of the dead to their final resting place, whether that's Heaven or Hell. This is an emotionally stressful job because he sees what Heaven and Hell are like, and he's left yearning for the peace Heaven offers but knows he'll never have. And because Lucien can see a soul's last few moments of life, the knowledge he's left with becomes a burden he doesn't want. Lucien has a very intimate view of life and death; he's even had to escort the soul of the woman he had loved, and that has left its mark on him. To make sure that no other woman could ever love him again, he scarred his own face and burned part of his body to keep them away. But when he finally meets Anya, the goddess of anarchy, in person, he meets the one woman who sees his scars as beautiful and can see past them to the man he is underneath.

When I read the first book in the Lords of the Underworld series, The Darkest Night, Lucien was one of two warriors that really intrigued me. He's the scarred leader of the warriors and the incarnation of Death, so he was shrouded in mystery and I was dying to know more about him. We also meet Anya toward the end of The Darkest Night, but she was just the disembodied voice of a goddess and we only got a glimpse of her when she appeared to Ashlyn. So she was just as much of a mystery as Lucien. But we get the full scoop on them in The Darkest Kiss. And apparently the kiss of death is irresistible.

In The Darkest Kiss, we learn that Lucien is just a man scarred, literally and figuratively, by his past. By lost love, his job of escorting souls, and just wants peace and happiness for himself and his friends. Anya want to be able to find a man that she can finally trust to love and give all of herself to. She wants people to see that she is important and not minor in any way. Both want acceptance, peace, happiness, and love--and they find all of that in each other.

The search for Pandora's Box is in full swing, and they find out that they need four artifacts, guarded by Hydra, to locate the box--the All-Seeing Eye, the Cloak of Invisibility, the Cage of Compulsion, and the Paring Rod. The four artifacts are spread out all over the world and can be found somewhere in these four locations: South Africa, the Arctic, the States, and Egypt. While all of this is going on, Lucien is ordered by Cronus to kill Anya, Paris finds and loses a woman who stirs him like no other, and Aeron escapes the dungeon leaving death in his wake.

With Aeron's escape in The Darkest Kiss, Reyes and Danika's story is set up further for The Darkest Pleasure. And Paris and Sienna's story is also set up and introduced when he was captured by Hunters in this book. The Lords of the Underworld series just keep getting more exciting with each new addition.
1226419
Mama Menchan knows how to write a love story that's intense and engaging, but still remains classy. Abasha Celine is a strong, independent woman. Her independence and beauty are both so enticing, so much so that Shaka is committed to chasing her, even after he paints her to life. Their first encounter is one to remember and their dialogue exchange leaves the reader in awe of their immediate connection.
1735898
I have to admit the title and premise of the story attracted me. I loved the idea of a young Gypsy man as the main character. Another reason I wanted to read this book is that I knew it was a daring choice for this author. Many people dislike people like Daniel and there is much racism, hatred, and misinformation for people like him. One thing that I found important to note even though there are some racist people in this story the book itself is not, In fact Ronan does some evolving himself as he progresses through the story. This book offers a moment to see the opportunity of love, compassion, and understanding unfold in a beautifully told story.

Daniels circumstances force him to leave his family and he decides the kind of life that he wants and discovers what he is willing to settle for. Ronan and Daniel meet in Clearys Pub and providence brings them together again later. Both men face the ghosts of their past and learn to trust again. I love the chemistry between Ronan and Daniel. The other characters are well rounded, and add so much to the story.

This book took me on a beautiful journey and gave me a bit of insight into some fascinating people. It is a great love story and shows the length that a man is willing to go to in the name of love and how love can grow when given the chance. It is a story of love, courage, strength, character, and integrity.
1199146
I've read Robyn Carr's newer books, but this one is a real jewel. The very tender story of a man of God, who sweetly and persistently seeks to win the heart of a broken and wounded widow and mother. A beautiful love story about a woman who is afraid to love again and the man whose faith gives him the strength to not walk away.  Lovely.
3381261
Anger, determination, and eager to find justice.  That's what Lady Eliza Sumner feels after losing her father, her fianc, and ultimately her fortune.  With no family left and her friends abandoning her, she takes off to America to get a job and recover her money after locating the thief.  After quickly finding work as a governess she is asked to attend a dinner party unexpectedly.  Trying to be inconspicuous she attempts at disguising herself with disastrous results!  She does meet brothers Hamilton and Zayne Beckett and later learns their paths are connected as they seek two criminals who are working together.

This book became a five star rating for me in THE FIRST CHAPTER and had me eager to see how the story unraveled.  The dialogue in this story is BRILLIANT!  It felt like Abbott and Costello in 1880's society where it's easy to discover who's only interested in gossip and who is really your friend.  Eliza has turned her back on God and now endeavors to sneak her fortune back into her possession seemingly unnoticed.  Enter handsome widower Hamilton who is determined to help her, his adorable children who are very observant and don't tolerate fakeness, one private detective who has strong opinions about women and their place in society, and Hamilton's meddling mother who is determined to see her sons happily married.

Some mishaps that occur with Eliza on her journey:
The dinner dress is a disaster and Eliza is unable to be inconspicuous
Eliza breaks into someone's house but has to leave without finding clues
Eliza gets mistaken for a prostitute and thrown in jail
Her career as a governess ends quickly when she gets fired

This adorable story deals with sexism, scandals and betrayal but never loses its innocence and humor!  There is one dead body, one man gets shot, and there is kidnapping, but I never once felt tension or disturbed while reading about them.

This is Turano's first book, but I guarantee once you've read it you will want more from this incredible author!  This is my first book review of the year and it was more delightful than I could've anticipated.  It was refreshing to see Eliza's transformation and seeing how God worked out her journey.  Many of us lose faith after experiencing a hardship, but learning to trust God again is worth it once we see how relentless He is in pursuing us.  He has the best plan for us and it's better than anything we could do ourselves.  Eliza is a feisty, temperamental, passionate woman with an amazing heart and a determination to see justice served.  What she doesn't realize is that God has a way of exposing the perpetrators and giving us back what is rightfully ours and all we have to do is trust Him to carry it all out.  I absolutely loved Eliza's journey (did I mention how smooth and funny the banter is throughout the story??); it's FILLED with wit, feisty characters, family, bailing people out of jail, rumors, and shedding light on what's true and honorable along the way!  And JUST when you think you know how the story will end, Turano brilliantly throws in more twists with a fresh style that truly enhances the plot!!  I'm hungry for more books from Turano and I'm thankful for the chance to review her first one!

I want to thank Bethany House for the review copy they provided.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.
2132294
David Smith is on his way home, back from a long day in Parliament, when he hears a scuffle, and witnesses a woman being robbed by two men. He rushes to her rescue, swiftly disposes of her aggressors, then runs after the fleeing woman to see if shes alright. To his astonishment, the victim is Faith Wellingford Evers, the widowed Duchess of Ashedon, Davids best friend from ten summers ago. David has been madly in love with Faith since then, but he knew marrying her was impossible: she an aristocrat, he a penniless farmers orphan. Even though David is now a respected politician and rather well-off, he is still not her equal in society. However, both miss that bygone enchanting summer, and decide to rekindle their friendship. David surmises that its better than nothing, but his feelings for Faith have never dimmed, and keeping it platonic will require more efforts on his part than he ever imagined. David is a very honourable man, and even if it weren't for the malicious gossip, he wouldnt consider an affair with Faith, however she is not averse to the idea. What to do?

STOLEN ENCOUNTERS WITH THE DUCHESS is a very ingenious love story where the romance is directly related to the heros occupation and preoccupations. David is fighting to have the Reform Bill approved, which would also make it possible to marry Faith without any problem, especially since Faith had sons with her late husband. Ms. Justiss knowledge of the eras political scene is staggering, as is her understanding of the class differences, and this makes for captivating reading from a historical point of view, but also how it affects Faith and Davids relationship. No matter how hard they try to convince themselves, the fires of passion still burn bright for Faith and David, but Faiths sons and mother-in-law also live with her, which makes it very difficult to meet without doing anything publicly scandalous.

Ms. Justiss has created in David a wonderful hero: understanding, upright, loyal and compassionate; he and Faith are an ideal match, as she is more adventurous and quite passionate but still respectful of societys rules, at least in public. The author handles prickly situations very adroitly, and I loved the subterfuge when getting rid of a villain. Julia Justiss writing is as gorgeous as ever, measured yet lyrical; the dialogues are impeccable and always according to the eras language. Readers who enjoy a tale of true love, where historical accuracy is paramount, will be delighted with STOLEN ENCOUNTERS WITH THE DUCHESS.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4669998
A feminist look at life in the Old West, the authors combine adventure and blossoming love to bring to the page a story of women out to change their lives. An outlaw who wishes to put a dark past behind her is aided on her quest by a farm girl escaping an dreary life and an abusive father.  Their journey across the wilds of the old West is one of challenge, courage and a love that binds and strengthens them both
2117998
The setup in this read is a simple yet very intriguing one. We have Princess Clementina who takes off to England to help a friend, but this little bit of information she keeps as a secret.

So naturally we have her 'loving' father worried that she might be running from the arranged marriage he so nicely and with all intentions of love arranged for her.

Enter crown Prince Karim al Khalifa, his mission is simple, retrieve the Princess and bring her home so she can marry the man her father chose. Karim is a man of honor and no matter how much he wants to strip Clementina naked and shower her with kisses he resists and complete's the task at hand bringing the runaway princess home.

Once home things take a sudden turn and Clementina is free. Karim tracks her down, and this time it's all about having the woman he wants and craves so badly and his honor seems a distant memory, but once in his arms will Clementina be able to forget about the honor-excuse he used to resist her the first time around or did he just come after her for sex?

The heroine in this book was remarkable, one of those woman you know is strong and no matter what comes her way she will face it, because let's be honest no woman really wants to marry some man she has been "engaged" to since the age of 13. We all deserve to meet and fall in love with someone we chose and not whom our parents think we do, but unfortunately this practice does happen in some countries and I have always felt so sad for these woman that is breaks my heart, but thankfully the author took it to the next level and let's fate intervene, giving us a heroine that stands up for what her heart believes in.

The hero in this book was superb! I loved him from start to finish, his upholding honor personality was terrific especially because he has been through so much and here comes the woman of his dreams and tempts him into very sexy thoughts and he has to sit there and force himself to remember she belongs to another, that shows some serious levels of willpower.

Through both characters the author showed that there is a will and a way to find what you seek, but you have to be willing to go with the flow so to speak, because fate can always have a different plan lurking in the background ready to unfold when you least expect it. Don't give up hope, keep believing that it will all work out and never ever keep your feelings in your heart, stand up and shout it out to the world you never know by making your feelings known you might just save yourself from heartache.

I recommend this read for all Kate Walker fans, the author has taken a unique 'give us a story with a bang combined with emotional and heartwarming passion' trait and created a stunning romance of love finally found when no one was looking.

4 star review
" He questions his honor, she makes him forget it ever existed"
*** Copy provided in exchange for a honest review
3411663
Book 2, Justice Quinn continues 19 years later from the first book Bella Maura, in the series The Beautiful Justice series. In the fist book, we are introduced to the spiritual gifts of Bella, Jonathan and Sienna.
In book 2, it continues with Justice the small baby orphan whom they adopted into their family, raising as their own, becoming justice in the world. I loved the symbolism the author used in showing us that Justice and Faith have many similarities, both working to show you the way to Him. Restoring hope in the world. The characters Justice and Faith, a young man and young girl who fell in love and at the end Justice sacrificed himself so that Faith could truly live a life of purpose. Each character created so that you will better understand the true meaning of the words. Its influence into the world and their immediate family heartbreaking but yet fills your eyes with tears as the love blossoms between them.

We meet up with Bella, now a young woman in her early twenties, beautiful and still interceding for those around her. Working with her brother to help those in need.
We meet a young man, Andrew McKenzie. His past so shocking and severe but yet teaching this man what it is to be a godly man. His character strong but caring, suffering with past hurts but yet knowing enough to lay it down and be restored. His suffering makes his character believable, stronger, patient and beautiful.
The lurking presences of the enemy giving it enough suspense to turn to the next page. Not placing too much emphasis on him but yet enough to know he was hiding in the shadows, trying very hard to disrupt and destroy the frailty of this family.
Sienna is more in the back ground in this book but still there, writing her novels playing her part to support her children and those closest to her. The love of Jonathan and Sienna the thread that holds everything together.
The author's writing style flowing and descriptive as she tells the tale of this family and their unwavering faith in the power of an All-seeing, and All-knowing God.
1672720
With colorfully expressive words, a memorable couple and sizzling love scenes, THE DESERT LORD'S BRIDE is a noteworthy romance in every aspect. This second book in the Throne of Judar series keeps the anticipation building as the new crown prince discovers just what he is willing to sacrifice for his beloved country. Olivia Gates has written another incomparable story to stir the imagination of her readers.

Although he would do anything for his country, prince Shehab Aal Masood does not look forward to marrying Farah Beaumont. Upon becoming the crown prince of Judar, he knows it is his duty to marry the one woman who can keep peace in his region. Nevertheless, he does not look forward to trying to get this woman with such a disgraceful reputation to become his wife. She has let it be known she has no interest in helping the country she has just discovered is part of her heritage, but Shehab believes he can seduce her into agreeing to this necessary marriage by not letting her know his true identity at first.

From the first moment Shehab sees Farah, he feels shaken by her beauty yet believes she is a heartless woman inside. However, as they talk and become better acquainted with each other, he begins to wonder if everything he has heard about her can possibly be accurate.  Farah is also attracted to this intriguing man as her emotions go into sensual overdrive when they are together. Shehab is someone who is always in control of his emotions, so he never thought his heart would become involved as he carried out his plan to help his country.

Sensually stunning from the moment Shehab and Farah meet, every one of their scenes causes a powerful emotional reaction in the reader. With stirringly portrayed feelings being depicted at every turn, I formed a potent connection with this couple from the beginning and found my own sentiments were deeply affected all through the book. Whether the moment is sexually charged or simply filled with heartfelt emotions, each instant is depicted with insightful realism, especially when the unexpected happens, Watching the rousing desire between Shehab and Farah grow more fervent with each passing day is superbly shown through skillfully created scenes packed with sincerity. The genuine passions between these two will definitely heat up the one who is lucky enough to be reading this exceptional story. There is an openness to their conversations which lets one see the profound inner nature they often keep hidden from others, making them seem even more lifelike. When Shehab and Farah let their hearts dictate what they say, the moment is almost overwhelmingly moving from their convincing responses and words. Any book created by Olivia Gates lets her distinctive writing style transport the reader into a fascinating world where the power of love is emotively revealed, and this story is a prime example. THE DESERT LORD'S BRIDE is a truly remarkable story of earnest feelings between two dynamically compelling characters.
12295
This book is one of my favorites so far. Delacroix recounts the classic story "Beauty & the Beast", setting it in Scotland. Both characters went through ordeals in their young lives but fate brought them together.

The story is about Jacqueline DeCrevy who has given up the possibility of marriage, for she knows men only want to possess her for her beauty. Jacqueline decides to become a bride of god, but on the way to the covenent, she is snatched from her saddle by a handsome knight. This Crusader is Angus MacGillivray, a scarred tall, dark and handsome man with a vengeful passion. Jacqueline is to be his ransom. Angus believes her father is responsible for the murder of his family and the seizure of his home. Jacqueline is a defiant captive, and soon realizes that beneath Angus' hard exterior is a yearning for love and a life in peace. Can she break through the armor that shelters his heart?

Beautiful not only on the outside, but on the inside, Jacqueline embodies conviction, class and spunk--worthwhile qualities of a heroine in any age. Angus' character, although at first selfish and focused on revenge, reveals enough heart on the inside to heal the scars on the outside. Perhaps if he can love Jacqueline for what inside her, she will see past the hardened man that Angus portrays and they will enjoy the most beautiful thing of all--love.

I recommend this book to any female reader who loves Scottish knights.
2675666
Mirror, Mirror at 1600 D.C. is an enticing book shrouded with romance and mystery. When a mysterious man named Harrison Rossetti is in Rome working for the US government, he has a chance encounter with journalist Hannah Littleton. Their lives are changed forever as an unexpected love blooms. While preparing for their wedding, Harrison is called away for a top secret project leaving Hannah alone with her fears. Harrison is then swept away in an unexpected, dire situation. Life or death decisions are made at every turn. The countrys security and future are at stake. Meanwhile, Hannah befriends Harrisons longtime friend, Pope Josetta; unfortunately, under some less than desirable circumstances.

Follow the unexpected twists and turns of this mind  catching novel. Edward Galluzzi leaves you on the edge of your seat. His use of imagery and vocabulary captivates the audience and places them directly in the hair tingling situations. Friendship, Love, Sacrifice and Duty are all highlighted within these pages. While Harrison is portrayed as a secretive man, it is evident that he is a loyal companion once you break through his shell. He is committed to the people he truly cares about. The use of friendship adds an additional dimension to the story line. You find yourself feeling for these unexpected friends. The story of Harrison and Josetta, for example, leave a sense of awe and respect. The relationship between Greg and Harrison tiptoes on the line of professionalism and friendship. This leaves the reader questioning the next move from each.

Love sets an undertone throughout the story. Galluzzi does an exceptional job at catching the hearts of readers and leaving them longing for their own Harrison and Hannah love story. My heart ached for the lovers amidst their separation. While the love is admirable, it can reach peaks that I wish would dive a little deeper, at times you find yourself absorbed in a passionate moment eagerly awaiting the next move only to be left hanging. Sacrifices must be made, especially in Harrisons line of duty. Sometimes, ones that break your heart and leave you feeling empty. I do wish some of Hannahs fears and doubts would have been expressed and explained a little deeper. Harrisons emotional responses to such sacrifices were held on the delicate balance described in ways that rendered the reader sympathetic.

The sense of duty is noble. All sacrifices were made in the wake of duty and respect. An empowering sense of patriotism coupled with disbelief on just how far someone might be willing to go in the name duty continually engulfs the reader.

As stated previously, the twists and turns of this novel keep the reader consumed. The mind is constantly trying to skip to the next scene to find out what happens. I personally found it to be a quick read simply because I had to know what happened next.
1465721
She needs love but wants revenge. He lives for the adventure of the sea, but knows he has responsibilities to keep. What the Duke Doesn't Know is a journey vengeance, finding inner peace and being true to one's self. Kawena has to learn how to move forward without bitterness and anger and accept what cannot be changed, as well as all the traits that make her unique. James needs to discover that being true to your heart does not mean letting go of what he loves but understanding what it requires to blend his heart'safe desire and his life's responsibilities in a way that proves to be both beneficial and relaxing. Kawena and James' pathway to acceptance is enlightening and inspiring but monotonous at times.
1623478
This is a beautiful story about true love and the sacrifices a human being is willing to make for that special someone.  The story will definitely keep the reader in suspense from beginning to end.
3037120
The simplicity of this story is its beauty. I am rooting for Dean and Olivia to survive the horrors of everyday life. Some of the outside obstacle had me tearing my hair out but the strength of their love kept me hoping for a better life for them. I am aching in my soul to know how their story ends. Dean is a beautifully tortured man who wants only to protect the love of his life. In that protection he smothers livs growth. She doesn't know who she is. This causes discourse and doubt in their marriage. What they have to do to save each other is going to take more that what they have in their bedroom. I hope they have the ability to bind themselves together because I will be forever scarred if they don't. The next book cannot come fast enough!
1582564
A story full of incredible adventures leading from lust and passion to a love of a lifetime with some serious business.