*Lora Leigh ~ Tha Man Within (Feline Breeds Series Book 2)*

He had protected her as a child, filled all her teenaged fantasies and stole her womanly heart, only to break it.



Now, fifteen months later, the news has released. The man she loves is one of the genetically altered Feline Breeds who have shocked the world with their presence. He’s also her mate. The mark on her neck attests to that. The fire that rages in her heart and in her body further proves it. But he hadn’t wanted her then; does he really want her now?



Deceit and treachery, born in the past, now haunt the present as Taber and Roni fight to make sense of a sudden bonding. The mating of heart, body and soul as the man and the beast within merge; both battling the forces raging against the union and dominance over the woman he claimed.

~ Taken from Lora Leigh's Site:

http://www.loraleigh.com/breeds/themanwithin/ ~

~~~

*My Review*

Alright confession time: I was so intrigued by the storyline of this second book in the Breeds series that I did in fact read this one before Tempting the Beast (book 1). I know, I know, a horrible deed to read such a series out of order but I am being 100% honest when I say I didn't have a choice!! It drew me like few precious stories do...

The Man Within is one of the greatest stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. And although I have only read the first two books in the series so far, I truly believe it will remain my favorite of Lora Leigh's books. The storyline is not only original but utterly wonderful! And don't even get me started on the relationship between Roni and Taber. It's amazing how you can see the many depths behind their bond. An unfailingly loyal friendship from their child years, a deep-rooted understanding of one another that is beyond comparison, a great dependence on and protectiveness for each other, blatant sensual desires, and a love that goes far deeper than their mate-bonding.

Roni and Taber's relationship is different and difficult and yet in the end, utterly right. I loved everything about their relationship. I especially adored the little insights into their background together.

And, as is the case with the first book in Leigh's Breeds series, The Man Within was written brilliantly, capturing the reader from the very first sentence and refusing to withdraw its hold until the end of the very last sentence. The chemistry between our hero and heroin will draw in even the most reluctant of readers and keep them craving for more. As I mentioned in my review of Tempting the Beast the other day, one of the greatest aspects of Leigh's books is the sense of family she gives the reader. She introduces her readers to the many background characters while not over-shadowing her lead characters, yet still managing to give them enough attention to have the readers dying for their individual stories more and more with each passing story.

This book has made it into my favorites list and (neeedless to say) Taber has absolutely made my 'Fictional Loves' list!! Now, although I did not take my adivce, I urge you to do so: read these books in order. I do not regret reading The Man Within first because it has wound up being my favorite, however I believe most people would understand and enjoy the series more so in the correct order.

Please do not pass these books by...they are worth checking out. I loved this book and I'm sure you will to.

~~~

*Excerpt*

"'Roni, dammit, what kind of trouble did you manage to get yourself into this time?'

Roni Andrews tried to suppress her grin as she heard Taber's voice echoing through the corridor of the cells housed in the county jail. She sat on the uncomfortable bunk, trying for nonchalance. No way in hell would she give him the chance to see just how much he could intimidate her. And boy could he intimidate.

Well over six feet tall, his body corded with powerful muscles, his expression often savage, remote, he could set her eart pounding in both fear and arousal. The fear she could handle. It was the arousal she often had problems with. ... There were nights she burned for him, and it terrified her. ...

Within seconds he was standing at the cell door, his hands braced on his lean hips, a frown etched on his proud, sun-darkened face. Damn, he made her want to start rubbig against him, like a cat. He was tall and muscular, his shoulders broad, his chest powerful and tapering to a flat, corded abdomen that tempted her to touch. Long powerful legs were encased in snug denim and there was no in hell she was going to let her gaze drift to...oh hell. That bulge between his thighs just looked too good to be true. Hastily she jerked her gaze back to his face.

His eyes were narrowed on her now, the jade-green color brilliant and snapping with fury. She swallowed tightly. He was non too pleased with her this morning.

'I didn't do a damned thing,' she snapped back, allowing all the awakening senses he managed to flip into overdrive to fuel her own anger. 'I was just standing there, Taber. Honest. That sherriff has lost his mind.'

She fought to hide her amusement. Of course, he knew she was lying. He always knew when she was lying.

'I should let you rot here.' She loved that growling thing he did when he was pissed. His voice would lower and just vibrate...like a cat. She had a fondness for cats. ..."

*Lora Leigh ~ Tempting The Beast (Feline Breeds Series Book 1)*

Callan Lyons is a genetic experiment. One of six fighting for freedom and the survival of their Pride. Merinus Tyler is the reporter who will tempt him, draw him, until the fury of the “mating frenzy” locks them into a battle of sexual heat there is no escape from.
Deception, blood, and the evil Genetics Council are hot on their trail. Callan will use his strength to try and save them both…and do all in his power to keep his woman in the process.

~ Take from Lora Leigh's Site:

http://www.loraleigh.com/breeds/temptingthebeast/ ~

~~~

*My Review*

I have never been the type of person to enjoy erotic novels - I am too desperate of a romantic to enjoy a relationship that doesn't end in deep, true love. So Lora Leigh's Feline series definitely caught me off guard!! This novel, while definitely erotic, should absolutely be categorized in the romance section! It had all of the steam, excitement and sensuality of erotica combined with the charming, enthralling, head-over-heels, soul-mate love that every romantic desires. And now add to that combo, a wonderfully original storyline, witty dialogue, and truly amazing writing and you've got yourself a keeper baby!

The relationship between Callan and Merrinus will draw you in and sink its claws into you from the first page, refusing to extract them until the very satisfying ending. Merrinus is a strong-willed, passionate, intelligent woman who (thanks to having been raised by an overprotective all-male family) is more than able to hold her own against the wildness within her man. Callan is the possesive, dominant, delicious alpha-male from every woman's fantasy whose fierce loyalty and love for his family and mate will capture the heart of every reader (so beware! haha).

I truly love how Lora Leigh managed to introduce so many background characters in a way that causes the reader to practically beg to read their individual stories while not treading over the toes of Callan and Merrinus' story. I will also admit that I am a sucker for the protective older brother bit and boy does this story have it...I mean how could it not when our heroin has 7 older brothers and a dad - all who are powerful, sexy and deadly lol. I love the relationship between Kane (Merrinus' eldest brother and father-like figure) and Merrinus.

Tempting The Beast has become one of my favorites (I'm dying to continue the series!!). The relationship between Callan and Merrinua is simply beautiful and sensual and lovely in every possible way and I strongly urge every romantic to give it a try. Believe me, it's worth it.

~~~

*Excerpt*

"She jerked as she felt her cell phone vibrating at her hips. She grimaced impatiently. She knew who it was. It had to be her oldest, most aggravating brother.

'What Kane?' she hissed as she flipped the phone open and settled it against her ear. ...

'It could have been dad,' Kane reminded her, his voice flat and hard.

'It could have been the pope too, but we know the averages on that one,' she muttered.

'Bitch,' he growled almost affectionately.

'Why Kane, how sweet,' she simpered. 'I love you too, asshole.'

There was a bried chuckle over the line, making her smile in response. ..."

~~~

"Callan watched her go, hiding his smile as she glanced back at him. Damn, she looked fine, he thought. And she was definitely on the hunt. A flare of regret rose in him as he admitted he would have definitely enjoyed the chase if circumstances were different. If he wasn't who he was, if his own life wasn't hanging by luck alone, then he could have enjoyed a game or two. And he'd be damned if that woman didn't look good enough to play with. It made his mouth water, looking at all the smooth, sexy skin, just faintly tanned and as tempting as sin itself."

Finally!!!

Finally I can get back onto my blog!! For some odd reason blogger was adament about keeping me from signing into my account for the last few days. I'm not sure what's changed but something I did must have worked because I was just able to sign in!! *YAY*

Ok...well now to celebrate my return I think some book reviews should be posted...what do ya think?

Yeah I thought you'd agree ;)

Hmmm...which books to review...hmmm...choices, choices...

Stay Tuned *haha*,
Cherie

Sorry Bout the Delay...

Sorry about the lack of posts in the last week or so...I've been busy between spending some quality time with friends before we all go our own ways and dealing with college drama. It turns out some of my financial aid forms (you know, those important ones that allow me to actually AFFORD to go to university) were "misplaced" in the system of postal service or something and so now I must resend them months after they were due. I'm praying I will still be able to recieve my full fin aid...*fingers and toes (and every other body part that will twist) crossed*.

My volunteering at the Friends of the Library has become a weekly thing, I'm glad to report, and I have found some interesting new books to read. I'll come on tonight once the house is nice and quiet and post a couple of reviews.

Until then... ;)

*Karen Hawkins ~ MacLean Curse Series*

How to Abduct a Highland Lord:



CAN SHE?



Shy, quiet Regency miss, Fiona MacLean, must save her brothers from becoming embroiled in a centuries old feud that could mean the death of them all. All she has to do is commit one, teeny, tiny, barely noticeable . . . crime.

WILL HE?

Sinfully handsome Black Jack Kincaid has spent his entire life philandering with other men's willing wives, trying to forget beautiful, wilful Fiona MacLean, so he's shocked when he awakens one day and discovers himself married to that very lass! Will he help her save her brothers and end a centuries old family feud? Can he accept being married to the woman who broke his heart so many years ago? And now that he has her, can he afford to let her go?




To Scotland, With Love:

When Lord Gregor MacLean learns a fortune hunter has abducted his childhood friend, Venetia Oglivie, he rides off to Scotland in hot pursuit. If he doesn’t rescue the provocative wench swiftly, she’ll be ruined by scandal! But when an irate Gregor catches up w

ith the supposed-damsel-in-distress, arrogantly expecting a hero’s welcome, the sparks between him and strong-willed Venetia fly. While they’re trapped by an unexpected snowstorm, those sparks grow so hot they threaten to burn down the inn! Now if Gregor can only convince Venetia that his motive for marriage isn’t duty . . . but desire!






To Catch A Highlander:

When her father gambles away the family estate to darkly dangerous Lord Dougal MacLean, Sophia MacFarlane is determined to use her wiles to regain it. Forced to stake the one thing she has left -- her virtue -- she desperately hopes her skill can limit her losses to a few kisses...no matter how hotly tempting Dougal turns out to be.

Dougal MacLean knows that Sophia has some trick up her sleeve, but he can't resist the challenge -- or her ravishing beauty. So when she proposes a card game with most unusual stakes, Dougal is delighted to accept. But as the game ends, Dougal and Sophia discover they've wagered something even more precious -- their hearts.

~ Take from Karen Hawkins' site: http://www.karenhawkins.com/index.html ~

~*~My Review ~*~

It is a rare magical moment when you uncover a series that thoroughly enthralls you within its depths, however that is precisely what Karen Hawkins' MacLean Curse series is (for me). I once again managed to read the series out of order, reading the third book in the series (To Catch A Highlander) first rather than last as I should have. However after reading this novel, I rushed out to obtain its 2 predecessors and I am thrilled to say I was most definitely not dissappointed.

The first novel in the series (How to Abduct A Highland Lord) introduces us to the devastatingly handsome and hardheaded MacLean clan and the curse that surrounds them. I truly loved that Hawkins chose to introduce her readers to the MacLeans via Fiona MacLean - the female member. A good deal of the time the female members (in a series based on one paticular family) are often overshadowed by the male members, however that is not the case when it comes to the MacLeans. Hawkins was able to introduce us to the entire MacLean clan (thus setting us up for the future books) while focusing our attention on our fiesty heroin and our roguish hero.

I have to admit I could not hold in my laughter at certain parts in this book. After all, it's not ever day a woman abducts a man and literally drags him to the alter!! =)

One thing I always look for in my romance novels is the witty banter; if the dialogue between the couple is just as exciting (if not more so) than the sexual encounters then you know you've struck gold!! This is apparently something Hawkins has already discovered, because the exchanges between the characters (especially between our heros and heroins) are present and shining in all three books making this an irresistable read for any and all Hist-Ro fans!

And when the author can make each and every story so very different yet equally thrilling, it is another sign of a truly remarkable series. The first book has Fiona MacLean and Jack Kincaid thrown into a marriage with passion yet devoid of love, and has the readers watching as their feelings begin to develop, despite their stubborn attempts to control the situation. To Scotland, With Love (a great title by the way) has an entirely different storyline. This book revolves around Gregor MacLean and Venetia Oglivie - childhood friends who must cope with the sudden change in their feelings towards one another either by accepting what fate is obviously trying to tell them and risk losing the greatest of friendships, or by ignoring their hearts desires and protecting their fragile (if unfufilled) relationship. And finally, our third book To Catch A Highlander tells the story of Dougal MacLean and Sophia MacFarlane - two people thrown into a battle of wits, both attempting to outmaneuver the other...however will the victor truly have won in the end, or will they have both lost in their denial to give in to their hearts demands?

All three books are very unique in storylines, leading characters and even in dialogue. And yet, even with all of the differences, I find myself unable to choose a favorite amongst them. They were all splendid in their own way and all I can do is recommend them to any and all lovers of historical romance.

~*~Excerpts~*~

(How to Abduct a Highland Lord)

"He wanted her so badly, ached with a lust that burned so hotly and so deeply, he feared it might destroy them both.

She was fumbling with her gown. 'Let me,' he said, his voice thick even to his own ears. She nodded, her cheeks flushed, her lips swollen from their kiss. He quickly undid the remaining ties. He wanted to see her naked, her hair spread about her, her arms and legs open for him - him and no one else.

The thought gave him pause. He was not given to possessiveness; his liasons were entertainments to be taken as they came, enjoyed, and then left. The freedom of the encounters gave spice to it all.

But with Fiona, it was different. Perhaps it was because she was the only woman he'd ever lost before he'd tired of her. Perhaps it was because she was the only woman who'd ever sent him away. Or perhaps it was something as simple as ownership. She was his wife. The word sent a possessive thrill through him. His chest expanded at the thought, his body quickening.

The last tie of her gown came free."

(To Scotland, With Love)

"Ravenscroft captured one of those hands now. He lifted it to his cheek, his gaze fixed on Venetia's face. 'Venetia, you are the most beautiful woman in the world, inside and out. I hope you know I would never do anything to disrespect you.'

Until now, Gregor had been enjoying every utterance that slipped from the pup's lips. But the unconcealed admiration that shone in Ravenscroft's eyes as he held Venetia's hand to his cheek sent an unfamiliar - and devilishly sharp - pang through Gregor.

It was the oddest feeling, and it wiped away his amusement in a flash. Venetia should have been offended by such familiarity. She should have been outraged by the suggestions this fool had made.

Instead, she sighed, her lips curling into a reluctant smile as she turned her hand and patted the insolent pup's cheek. 'Oh, Ravenscroft, you are so young. I keep forgetting that, don't I?'

It was hardly a compliment, but it only encouraged the fool. Ravenscroft had the temerity - the audacity, by God - to cup her fingers to his lips and press a kiss to her bare palm.

Something inside Gregor snapped. 'Venetia.'"

(To Catch A Higlander)

Damn, she was a heady wench. Under other circumstances, there was no telling where their flirtation might have led, for he couldn't imagine tiring of her.

Unfortunately, fate had dealt them a short hand, and they were doomed to a brief, though brilliant relationship. He would have to be satisfied with that.

Dougal took another drink of sherry, the liquid burning his throat. It was traditionally a sweetish drink, fit for gently bred women, but this brew was amazingly potent. He placed his glass back on the table and said softly, 'How do you wish to do this, my love? You lost, so therefore you must part with your gown.'

She stood, her silk gown whispering as she rose. 'I never liked this particular gown, anyway.' Her voice, husky and low, sent a shiver over his skin.

He stared, unable to look away as her gown caressed the curve of her breasts, full and round. He imagined how they'd fill his hands. He could easily span her petite waist, and the curve of her hips seemed made for his hands. She slowly pushed her hair aside, the golden strands clinging to her neck and shoulders. He didn't blame them; he'd be loathe to part from such glorious skin himself.

As she met his gaze, he was caught by the seductive light in her eyes. By Zeus, she was enjoying this. Savoring it, even. The idea made his breath tighten in his chest and he realized that he was gripping his glass so tightly that it was in danger of cracking.

Bloody hell, but she was a temptress. It was a pity she was trying to cheat him, too. For that, she would pay and pay dearly. Slowly, he placed his glass on the table. 'Let me know if you need any assistance. I'm quite practiced in undressing a woman.'

'I can undress myself.' She reached for the ties at her shoulder and gave one a gentle tug. 'Be certain you remain in your chair, please. You won the right to watch me disrobe, MacLean, and nothing more.'

This time, he thought to himself. Next time, the stakes will be much higher. I'll make certain of that if it's the last thing I do."

Hello There :)

Hi ya =)

Unfortunately I haven't had much time to read as of late (a horrendous crime indeed) however, luckily I was able to snag a few hours today and am planning on stay up late tonight to catch up haha. I am still working my way thru Chance's C. Palmer Clairvoyant series while also juggling a few historical romances (I can never seem to go too long without reading a historical lol). I also finally broke down and ordered Lora Leigh's Tempting the Beast and The Man Within (the first 2 books in her Feline Breeds series) because I have been unable to get my hands on them threw the stores nearby and am desperate to own them! I "accidently" *cough cough* read the second book (Taber and Roni's story) first and am now dying to read the first one and am greedily anticipating owning The Man Within. With any luck they should be arriving here tommorow *fingers crossed*.

I finally got my mini fridge for my dorm (managed to snag one on craigslist for only $50...perfect size, great condition and even in the color I had hoped for). Now I have only some minor odds and ends to deal with before moving on to become a full-time college student. Still can't believe how soon I'll be having to leave :(...hmmm...best not to think about it for too long lol.

I should be finishing Devils Bride by Stephanie Laurens tonight (this is the first novel I've ever read by her - an impulsive buy - but so far I've loved it! I'll post a review tonight after I finish it) ;)

As my friend Mary would say "Ta!!"
Cherie =)