Review: A Governess Named Trouble

A Governess Named Trouble by Loki Renard

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This was a wonderful and humor filled story. Cyril has lived an adventurous life traveling in Africa but now he home and has four sons to raise. He is doing his best to be a good a proper English gentleman. And when his friends recommend a new governess for his boys his trouble really starts. Frankie is not what he was expected and while she seems to be doing a great job of caring for his boys her behavior is driving him nuts in more ways than one. He finds her outrageous and she finds him to stuck up yet they both are attracted to each other. As Frankie does her best to misbehave to get Cyril's attention what's an Englishman to do.



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Review: Auction Action

Auction Action by Andrew Grey

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This was a great story. I hadn't re-read the blurb before I started reading and so when I started reading I was making the assumption that little guy would be the bottom. Of course you know what happens when you assume. It was great to see the small but might Frederick at work.



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Review: Blind Need

Blind Need by Dakota Trace

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Nate hasn't been with someone since he was scarred. Xaviera hasn't been with someone since she lost her sight and her fiancé. Madame Eve's finds two perfect halves to create a perfect whole. Sweet short read.



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Review: Sold to the Highest Bidder

Sold to the Highest Bidder by Donna Alward

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Ella seemed to bring so much more baggage then just the husband she married and let go. Devin withheld information but he seemed to do it more out of concern for her and to find out if she cared for him or his the changes in his own life. I had a hard time really like Ella. She was more than a bit self-adsorbed. Even her boss new more about her past life and husband than she did. She seems to redeem herself at the end but not enough to bump up my rating of the story.



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Review: Jennifer's Dilemma

Jennifer's Dilemma by Joanne Locker

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Wow lots of action going on in this story. Jennifer works for the "agency". She's in big trouble and Steven comes along and saves her life. They both feel an instant attraction and Jennifer defies Steven's directions to try and help him out. This leads him to spank her for risking her life. They lose touch and both are surprised to run into each other months later. Of course they still care about each other and Jennifer is still being to stubborn for her own good. So can they work things out and still stay alive.

I like that Steve's actions are out of strong emotions for Jennifer and that he can admit when she has a point as well.



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Review: Training Tristan

Training Tristan by Shannon West

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Jeb is a cop who is still in the closet. Tristan is a young guy in big trouble with Kurt a big bully. Tristan represents everything that Jeb resents. He sees Tristan as a walking sterotype but he's drawn to him all the same. He decides to take the boy home and maybe train him to be more manly. There are some really cute scenes with that. But there comes a point when Jeb has to come to terms with his own feelings. By the end you're not sure who's training whom.



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Review: Caught

Caught by Claire Thompson

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



This story turned out to be way to dark for me. There is no relationship involved at all in this story. Jessie was engaged in legal and consensual activities but she makes the mistake of using the companies equipment and space. Her activities cost the company money and was the potential for all kinds of problems. But Eric is really just a bully who decides to use this mistake as an opportunity to kidnap and abuse Jessie. The only redeeming quality is that he ends up paying in the end.



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Review: Neil and Obey

Neil and Obey by Elizabeth Coldwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Liz and Neil are set up by her friend for a weekend trip to see Liz's ex get married. Neil says he will on one condition and thus begins their journey. Liz responds quickly to Neil and they seem to be well suited. The trust seemed to be a bit quick but this is fiction after all.



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Review: Georgia Heat

Georgia Heat by Shannon West and Remy Devereaux

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really battle with the rating on this between 3 and 4. Mark really makes me angry pretty much through the whole story. He seems like a user and has trouble being honest about himself. He has cheated on his wife emotionally because he already clearly knew how he felt about himself before he even married her and then cheats physically with Jake and other men he encounters. He is also cheating on Jake in way by admitting he felt something special from the first encounter but continues to be with his wife and others. I mean they hook back up because Mark is coming in looking for a one-night stand. I could tell his feelings for Jake were real and that sort of redeemed him a bit in my eyes but to the end he still seems to be so much more about himself and his feelings and his convenience than concern for Jake and what he's needs and wants might actually be. You hope with time Mark can relax and just let the relationship develop but a part of me kind of hopes Jake moves on to someone who will love him more unconditionally.



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Review: The Courage to Love

The Courage to Love by Samantha Kane

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Really more a 3.5

This is a story that has some very strong and powerful emotions. Kate, Jason, and Tony have had similar feelings for years but since they were never spoken or acted on something bad has happened to Kate. It takes all the love and dedication of the two men to help Kate relax and act on their feelings.



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Review: Pleasure with Purpose

Pleasure with Purpose by Lisa Renee Jones

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Cute story of a long term crush finally working out. Neither Brad nor Heather wanted to lose their friendship but there comes a time where you either needed to act on your feelings or walk away.



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Review: Mistaken

Mistaken by Laurel Joseph

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This story starts out with a bang with a mistaken identity. But as it turns out there is a connection and that is where the story really starts. Jolie is the lost twin of Jacy who is married to Wes. Drew, Wes's brother is drawn to Jolie. So as you can see there is plenty of potential for action. Jolie has been caring for herself and she's not sure she is willing or able to just turn over control to someone else not matter how much she's drawn to Drew. Both sisters are very good at getting themselves in to trouble. Jolie through risky actions and Jacy by getting her her attitude all wound up. At first I was a bit taken back by the brothers seeing them as a bit over the top in their expectations and discipline but when you begin to factor the truly life and death situations they find themselves in you beginning it fits. Also, as the story develops and you can see the true love they men have for their women it becomes a bit easier to take. Of course I don't think I'd want to be married to either one of them either.



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Review: Spoken

Spoken by Sean Michael

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really enjoyed this story of Kendall and Eric. They already had a long term established relationship and had already had to over come as they called it the big C. I also appreciated the way that it was shown that there are as many ways to approach BDSM as their are people participating in it. Also, when Eric's interest leads to misunderstanding he is more than willing to apologize. This is a couple with a very strong relationship and it gives them the freedom to find out what they want and what they don't.



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Review: Hernando Heat

Hernando Heat by Tymber Dalton

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really loved the love story between all three characters. It was interesting to see the interaction between the characters and the way there were interconnected to the the bad guy. Their feelings seemed very real and possible.

Some people commented that they didn't think that their acceptance was really possible but knowing how wild Florida has really been I don't find that as hard to believe. My the late 1800's Florida's coasts were full of Northern investors building railroads and resorts but Florida's interior was still pretty rough and wild. Florida's real history is full of real characters and I could easily picture these characters fitting right in.



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Review: Love Slave for Two: Beginnings

Love Slave for Two: Beginnings by Tymber Dalton

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I haven't read the rest of the books of the series since I actually saw the ad for this one and decided to start the series at the beginning. Because I knew this was a prequel for a latter series of story I didn't expect it to be as fleshed out or to have as much of the relationship that you would expect from the main stories in the series. This was what I expected a quick peak at the past of the characters so that you can see their development in the rest of the series. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series. I think the whole point is to see that Tommy really had no strong relationship except his friendships and how strong that friendship colored his feelings on abuse. Tyler's exploration of his sexuality without fulfilling his need for relationship also molds him and makes him able to comprise for the sake of love.



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Review: Lyric's Cop

Lyric's Cop by Jory Strong

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I was pleasantly surprised by this tale. I had read a few other freebie first book lately that made me decide I wasn't going to read more but this one has me hooked on a new series. The characters were fun and likable. Kieran was a bit rough but everyone including Lyric seem to realize that this is exactly what she needs. It seemed to start out a funny tale about catching a dog napper and turned into something much more serious. The scenes between Kieran and Lyric are very hot but they didn't overshadow the story. Lots of loose ends for the sisters and cousins. Can't wait to see what they do next.



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Review: Bear, Otter, and the Kid

Bear, Otter, and the Kid by T.J. Klune

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This book took a bit longer for me to read because there are so many layers and so many strong emotions. Bear has had adulthood thrust upon him and has to much of himself on hold. He has conflicted feeling but the need for friends to help him survive the new realities of his life has made it even harder to sort out what he is feeling. Otter has been battling his own feelings and trying to figure out the right thing to do. No matter what happened people would get hurt but with the help of the wisdom of a very bright nine year old and a loving old lady the damage is manageable. And the return of a common enemy doesn't hurt in bring friends back together. I love that the ending while not completely settled leaves you with a good feeling of hope for the future of all the characters in the story.



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Review: Love Me Once, Love Me Twice

Love Me Once, Love Me Twice by Sandy Sullivan

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Loved how the interaction with their mutual friend really helped them figure out and cement their feeling for each other. And I think everyone should have a grandma like Natalie's. That lady is so cute.



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Review: Pinocchio Syndrome

Pinocchio Syndrome by Casea Major

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Nothing like accidently doing exactly what you're supposed too. Very funny read.



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Why Witness is my favorite movie..

So the other day on Guilty Pleasures blog they asked about your three favorite movies and I said that Witness was my number one favorite and there was a story behind that.  So here is the story.  It was many years ago when I was turning 22.  I was still married to my ex-husband and he was taking me out for my birthday.  Dinner at Benegins and then off to the movies.  So we headed to the twin theaters (yes this was before the megaplex).  One theater had Witness and the other had some guy oriented action flick.  I don't even remember the name.  So my ex says we're going to the action flick.  I said but it's my birthday and I would really like to see Witness.  He was like no we are seeing the action flick.  I said no I'm seeing Witness it's my birthday I get to pick.  I'd been a good sport.  I'd watch him drink green beer so I thought I really should get to see the movie I want.  Finally, he said fine you can go see Witness but I'm going to the action flick.  That was my signal to give up and go to the action flick.  But something just clicked and suddenly I didn't want to give in.  Just this once I was not backing down.  I said fine that works for me and I did indeed go in and see Witness all by myself.  The funny thing is it probably had as much action as what he saw.

But that moment was the beginning of something inside me.  I did what I wanted.  I went in the theater all by myself.  The world did not stop spinning.  Life as we know it didn't cease to exist.  No one else in the theater had no idea that anything at all had happened.  But I learned that maybe, just maybe, I was worth enough to make my own choice and have my own opinion.  It was a very tiny spark but it was lit.

I'd like to say from that moment on I was strong and capable and began living my own life but sadly no it took a couple more years to finally claim my freedom and it took a lot of support from some really great friends but even at that moment I knew something was different.

A few years ago my oldest bought me a copy of Witness because he knew I really loved that movie.  So maybe later today I'll have to take time to relieve a birthday memory as I continue to embrace what is important to me.

Review: Yes, Sir

Yes, Sir by Ellis Carrington

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This was a short read but very good and entertaining. You could really feel the emotion and the inner pain. Great short story.



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Review: The Bitch in the Kitchen

The Bitch in the Kitchen by Paul Martin

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This turned out to be a really great read. Poor Jake has had a bad time of it lately and his friend and business partner thinks getting away for a while is just the ticket but things don't go as planned at all. He wakes up in a hospital and doesn't even remember his name. His new job working for Lisa in her restaurant seems to create more questions than it answers about who he is. Then when Lisa's ex shows up to cause trouble things really start to happen. This was a cute story and the HEA is really surprising and very sweet.



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Review: Nobody's Hero

Nobody's Hero by Kallypso Masters

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Wow, wow, wow!!! - Adam and Karla's story is just so very special. I knew it wouldn't be easy for the two of them to get together but this story was over the top wonderful. These two have had such a long running friendship and to see all that caring pack into a relationship was beautiful.

And to top off the rocking relationship this story is pack with so much drama and so much past baggage getting unpacked that there something new every few pages. This book is not conducive to getting a good night's sleep that's for sure.

And finally the set up for the next book in the final part of the book. I so can't wait for the next installment.



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Review: The Instigator

The Instigator by Abigail Webster

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Becky only wants to make things better for her brother Rob. But her help almost ruins Rob's marriage to Holly. He has a fit and asks Becky's husband to step in and do something. And just when things seem to be improving Holly decides its her turn to get even. This poor husbands have their work cut out for them but luckily they've decided they are up to the challenge.



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Review: American Love Songs

American Love Songs by Ashlyn Kane

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



I liked how the story allowed the relationship between Parker and Jake to develop slowly and naturally. I also enjoyed the humor and the way the "story" was broken up with blog posts and news articles. This was a fun and sweet read.



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Review: Under My Skin

Under My Skin by M.L. Rhodes

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really loved Sebastian and Dylan's story. Past hurt can make it so hard to reach out and to accept your own feelings. Hurt can often make trust difficult. It takes someone special to keep trying and not giving up on a special future.



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Review: Cherry On Top

Cherry On Top by M. Rode

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This was a great anthology and great way to finish out the month of February. Every story was a real treat and I found the Hammer story very unique and a great addition to the story.



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Review: Dance With Me

Dance With Me by Heidi Cullinan

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I think actually a 4.5.

I loved this story of Ed and Laurie. How each man brought something special to relationship and to each other. It was interesting to see the dance between being the care giver and the one needed care. It was a very special love story and hated to stop reading so I could get some sleep.



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Review: Wooing Master Jones

Wooing Master Jones by Amber Kell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really love how Stephan reached out to Master Jones and slowly drew him in. It was fun to watch Master Jones' anticipation and appreciation. And when he finds out who is mystery man is and that he is sick he immediately goes into to protective mode even if it means taking on the equally dominate big brother. It's fun to see big bad doms have their world shaken up just a bit.



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Review: The Arrogant Author

The Arrogant Author by Amanda Dashwood

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Sparks fly when Alexandra meets John for the first time and she's glad she'll never have to see him again. Of course she ends up not only seeing him but having to work with him as well. This story really had more layers than the typical spanking story. It explored the difference between pleasure and punishment spankings, the different levels of trust involved, whether a relationship is necessary, and even does sex a given. As Alexandra explores her feelings for John, she is also forced to explore her feelings and understanding of spankings and they role they play in her life. Some very interesting ideas explored in this story.



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Review: Handcuffs and Pretty Things

Handcuffs and Pretty Things by Kim Dare

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Another great addition to the Rawling's Men series. Of course this time the tables are turned because the Rawling is the submissive one. And a master decides that not only is he ready for something more permanent but that being perfect isn't as important as he thought.



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Review: Kissing Kris Kringle

Kissing Kris Kringle by Erin Quinn

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This was a cute story of how the magic of Christmas touches a town and its citizens. The magic brings people together and helps them heal. It was a delightful Christmas story.



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Review: Turkish Delights

Turkish Delights by Liz Crowe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



How can you find better friends then ones who will work hard at bringing you together with the man of your dreams even if you think you're too old for him. Madame Eve does it again in making another perfect match from a 1 Night Stand.



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Review: The Reunion

The Reunion by OTK Romance

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



More like a 3.5

This anthology was a nice mix of individual stories about different couple that blending together in one story about a high school reunion. Several wives, girl friends, and new hook ups found out that the guys had an unique way of calming them down and keeping them inline. Makes you wonder if maybe you should have checked out your own high school reunion.



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Review: On the Run

On the Run by Sue Fineman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Really a 3.5

This book had a great action back story. Adam and his whole family a pretty tough even mom. And Neen has done a lot to keep herself alive since she last saw Adam. Despite running for their lives they are able to talk about the past and reconnect.



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Review: The Ice Cream Caper

The Ice Cream Caper by Dara Ames

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



When two sister decide to surprise their husbands by making some extra money for vacation by running an ice cream truck what could possibly go wrong. This was a fast pace and humorous look and why its never a good idea to keep secrets. Just about everything that could go wrong, does. And the worse part is their brother is more than willing to help him because he loves posting their exploits on his blog.



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Review: Never a Bride

Never a Bride by Amelia Grey

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I had gotten this freebie quite a while ago and wasn't expecting much. But I was really surprised at how engaging the story was. Mirabella has been left of the shelf when her intended left the country six years before. She has given up and decides she will never be a bride. In the mean time she on the trail of the man she feels is responsible for the suicide of her best friend. The problems start when she meets a mystery man who really makes her feel special and then gets caught with a man in the garden by her fiancee who has returned. The story of how she can help her friend and not lose the man was full of humor and heart warming moments. Very much worth the time to read.



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Review: The Bastard Preacher

The Bastard Preacher by Dee Dawning

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



This wasn't badly written but the subject matter and the way that the ending is just hanging there waiting for the next book didn't do anything for me. Characters were a bit flat and predictable.



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