Soon To Come...

Here is a list of the books I will be reviewing in the next little while:

* Lisa Kleypas - "Blue-Eyed Devil" (Sequel to "Sugar Daddy")

* Cecelia Ahern - "P.S. I Love You" (I read this a few years ago and loved it so much I have read it three times since...so I figure it's time to 'share the love') haha

* C.L. Wilson - "Lord of the Fading Lands" AND "Lady of Light and Shadows" (The first two novels in Wilson's Tairen Soul Series)


On a different note: Has anyone read a book called "Tall Dark And Dead" by Tate Hallaway?? I read the excerpt and it looks interesting but I am not sure if I want it enough to order it or not. Please let me know if you have read it and what you thought of it. :)

Quick Update!

Hi ya!!

I just popped in to say hello and give y'all an update. I just finished "Ransom My Heart" By: Mia Thermopalis (a.k.a. Meg Cabot) and will likely be posting a review on that in the next day or so. I will also be posting a review of Barton's "Dying For You" (fingers crossed) tonight, or if I don't find time then tomorrow night.

Like always, if there are any new and upcoming authors or novels/books (or even just some of the good old ones you think I may not have read as of yet) please feel free to give me a shout out and let me know some of your faves! ;)

On a different note, I have a question to pose to anyone and everyone who reads this: I have been dating a very sweet, funny 22 year old for a few months now and (though we haven't seen each other recently due to unavoidable circumstances) I am really crazy about him. However, lately I've been unsure as to how he feels about me. He is always very sweet and says he's crazy about me, but at the same time I can't help but feel that I'm just here for him because something better hasn't come along. Maybe I'm just being a silly ninny, but either way I need to know where we stand with each other...which is why I'm going to ask him how he sees our "relationship" next time we are together. He has never actually called me his girlfriend and (though I have considered him to be my boyfriend for awhile) I have never broached the subject. So my question is this: How should I go about finding out if we are a couple or simply dating or even just friends with benefits?

...Any and all suggestions and advice would be soooo wonderful and much appreciated!

Thanks and have a splendid day! =D
Cherie

*Lisa Kleypas ~ Sugar Daddy*

SHE’S FROM THE WRONG SIDE OF THE TRACKS
Liberty Jones has dreams and determination that will take her far away from Welcome, Texas—if she can keep her wild heart from ruling her mind. Hardy Cates sees Liberty as completely off-limits. His own ambitions are bigger than Welcome, and Liberty is a complication he doesn’t need. But something magical and potent draws them to each other, in a dangerous attraction that is stronger than both of them.

HE’S THE ONE MAN SHE CAN’T HAVE
When Hardy leaves town to pursue his plans, Liberty finds herself alone with a young sister to raise. Soon Liberty is under the spell of a billionaire tycoon—a Sugar Daddy, one might say. But the relationship goes deeper than people think, and Liberty begins to discover secrets about her own family’s past.

WILL THEY FIND THEIR HEARTS' DESIRES - OR WILL HEARTBREAK TEAR THEM APART?

Two men. One woman. A choice that can make her or break her. A woman you'll root for every step of the way. A love story you'll never forget.

- Taken from the back cover of Lisa Kleypas' "Sugar Daddy" novel

~~~

~*~My Review~*~

Lisa Kleypas has to be one of the most phenomenal authors I have ever had the pleasure of coming across. I can say with all honesty that I have truly loved every novel I have ever read by her - to the point that reading each book once through is simply not enough. Kleypas has the unique and wonderful ability to bring life into her stories in a way that astounds her readers, leaving them breathless and longing for more, while at the same time feeling a sense of complete satisfaction and fulfillment. I think what amazed me the most was Kleypas' adaptability as an author.

Before "Sugar Daddy" the only books I had read by Kleypas were all Historical Romances, thus I was a bit hesitant to read one of her few contemporary novels. However one day I found the book in one of my favorite used bookstores and my curiousity got the better of me. I found the summary on the back interesting, so I chose to read the first chapter and THAT is what got me hooked! I loved that Kleypas began the book while our heroin was still young. Unlike most books where you are introduced to the lead female character right before she encounters her soon-to-be-true-love, Sugar Daddy allows readers to follow Liberty through her life. You meet her as a young girl, and follow her along her long, difficult, and wonderful journey through life, so that you not only understand her life, but you yourself feel as though you are a part of it...you become Liberty Jones. And don't be fooled by the fact that this story starts off with our lead female character at a young age, nothing about this book is slow or drawn out and there is plenty of romance within this story from the very start.

As I mentioned before, one of the things that stood out to me the most was Kleypas' ability to adapt to this different genre of romance storytelling. It was as if she transformed her writing and author's voice to fit that of her main character. I'm afraid I'm probably not doing a very good job of describing it, so I will simply say: it is an amazing story and she was the perfect author to write it!

I am not going to describe the storyline any further than I already have because, one: it would be near to impossible to truly explain how complex and wonderful it is. And two: this is the type of story you need to experience...

If you give it a shot I know you will love this story - and please do not let the title discourage you in any way! It is ony of my all-time favorite stories and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone!! :)

~~~

~*~Excerpts~*~

" ...'What do you want from me?'

'I want you to admit just once what you feel for me. I want to know if you'll miss me even a little. If you'll remember me. If you're sorry for anything.'

I felt his fingers clench my hair, tugging until my head tilted back. 'Christ,' he whispered. 'You want to make this as hard as possible, don't you? I can't stay, and I can't take you with me. And you want to know if I'm sorry for anything.' I felt the hot strikes of his breath on my cheek. His arms wrapped around me, stifling all movement. His heart pounded against my flattened breasts. 'I'd sell my soul to have you. In my whole life, you'll always be what I wanted most. But I've got nothing to give you. And I won't stay here and turn into my father. I would take everything out on you - I would hurt you.'..."

~

"...'You need a wife,' I told him one morning as I came to take his breakfast tray.

'I had a wife,' he said. 'Two good ones, as a matter of fact. Trying for another would be like asking fate for a kick in the ass. Besides, I do well enough with my lady friends.'

I could see the sense in that. There was no practical reason for Churchill to get married. It wasn't like he had a problem finding female companionship. He got calls and notes from a variety of women, one of them an attractive widow named Vivian who sometimes stayed overnight. ...

'Why don't you get a husband?' Churchill countered. 'You shouldn't wait too long or you'll get set in your ways.'

'So far I haven't found one worth marrying,' I said, making Churchill laugh.

'Take one of my boys,' he said. 'Healthy young animals. All prime husband material.'

I rolled my eyes. 'I wouldn't have one of your sons on a silver platter.'

'Why not?'

'Joe's too young. Jack is a ladies' man and isn't nearly ready for that kind of responsibility, and Gage...well, personality issues aside, he only dates women whose body fat is in the single digits.'

A new voice entered the conversation. 'That's not actually a requirement.'

Glancing over my shoulder, I saw Gage walking into the room..."

Free 3 Day Weekend!!

First, I would like to apologize to the few people who actually read my blog for being so sporadic with my posts as of late. I've been seriously neglecting my blog - which is terrible since I love blogging about my favorite reads - and I'm sorry about that. My life has been a bit crazy for these last few months and the truly depressing part is that I now can only read on the weekends because my weekdays are almost always too packed to fit it in. Thankfully though, I was able to get some reading done over christmas break and am currently in the process of reading a new book and rereading a couple of old ones! =)

Here is the list of books I've read recently and will be posting on this weekend:

* Dying For You (By: Beverley Barton)
* Sugar Daddy (By: Lisa Kleypas)
* Stranger In My Arms (By: Lisa Kleypas)
* The Duke's Indiscretion (By: Adele Ashworth)
* Highlander In Her Dreams (By: Allie Mackay)
* Before The Scandal (By: Suzanna Enoch)

The books I am reading currently are all ones that I have reviewed before with the exception of a new one I bought the other day called "Ransom My Heart" (By: Mia Thermopolis - a.k.a. Meg Cabot)...so far it's amazing, and I'm only on chapter 2!!! ;)

Alrighty, well I'm going to start on some of the reviews now but before I do, I'd like to invite anyone and everyone to give me some books ideas. I'm looking for some new reads and am not having much luck outside of the same series I have already found. Anything romance will be good, I'm always in the mood for historical and/or paranormal romance, and lately I've been into contemporary romance as well ( any books similar to Kleypas' Sugar Daddy or Barton's Dying For You would be most welcome!)

Thanks,
Cherie :)

*Karen Chance ~ Midnight's Daughter*

Dorina Basarab is a dhampir—half-human, half-vampire. Subject to uncontrollable rages, most dhampirs live very short, very violent lives. So far, Dory has managed to maintain her sanity by unleashing her anger on those demons and vampires who deserve killing.

Now Dory’s vampire father has come back into her life. Her uncle Dracula (yes, the Dracula) infamous even among vampires for his cruelty and murderous ways, has escaped his prison. And her father wants Dory to work with the gorgeous master vampire Louis-Cesare to put him back there.

Vampires and dhampirs are mortal enemies, and Dory prefers to work alone. But Dracula is the only thing on earth that truly scares her, and when Dory has to go up against him, she’ll take all the help she can get…

~ Taken from Karen Chance's Site:

http://www.karenchance.com/author.html ~

~~~

~*~MY Review~*~

All I can say is, "Thank God Chance is continuing this story as a series!! Because this storyline - though not as important to me as Cassandra Palmer's story - is far too wonderful to not continue!!" I will admit I was worried about introducing another strong, powerful female character into the same world as Cassie Palmer (the main character of our most beloved Cassandra Palmer, Clairoyant series) however I am thrilled to say my fears were unwarranted! The fact that Dorina's story takes place in the supernatural world we were introduced to in the Cassie Palmer series, only adds an element of familiarity to the series, allowing readers to feel instantly comfortable with the story's background.

I also love that Chance, being the absolutely fabulous author that she is, is able to create these two main characters in the same world with many of the same characters, yet keep from stepping on the toes of the other story. She has this uncanny ability to cover every detail her readers might question or wonder about, and to think far enough ahead to set up her storyline so that she can later uncover aspects of the story that the readers overlooked (as theyy were meant to) adding to the story and giving her readers the chance to learn about this crazy/miraculous world along with our heroins.

I am also excited beyond words to have Louis-Cesare starring as our lead guy in a series...I absolutely adore him in the Cassie Palmer series, but he's so not for Cass, so I love having this amazing character finally have his own romantic role.

And so to wrap up my review, I obviously adored this first installment into this new series. It not only introduces us to yet another amazing storyline in this supernatural world we have all come to love, but also allows us the opportunity to view the world and its characters in a new light providing readers with the chance to fall further in love with it all!

(NOTE: THOUGH THIS SERIES CAN BE READ WITHOUT HAVING PREVIOUSLY READ THE CASSANDRA PALMER, CLAIRVOYANT SERIES, I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND READING THE CASSIE PALMER SERIES FIRST! BELIEVE ME, YOU WILL NOT UNDERSTAND OR APPRECIATE THIS AMAZING SERIES AS WELL AS YOU SHOULD IF YOU SKIP OVER CASSIE'S STORY...PLEASE GO TO KAREN CHANCE'S WEBSITE AND CHECK IT ALL OUT...TRUST ME IT'S WORTH IT!)

~~~

~*~Excerpts~*~

"He managed to pin my arms to my sides momentarily, pulling me hard against him in the process. I hadn't had a real sense of his power before, but now it crackled along my skin, warring with my own. I tried to knee him in a sensitive area, but he slipped a leg between mine, crushing me between his body and the bathroom door.

The fight paused. I couldn't break his hold, but he couldn't press his advantage without risking me slipping away. His breath was coming fast and I had a second to enjoy the thought that at least I'd winded him. The the feel of that solid chest moving up and down against mine brought on another emotion altogether. My entire body clenched, breath coming faster, nipples hardening. I shivered, caught between fury and arousal, and stared up into a face that reflected the surprise I felt.

Louis-Cesare's grip tightened, setting my pulse pounding in my ears. I wasn't accustomed to encountering someone stronger than me, to being unable to break away. The fight-or-flight instinct kicked in, and despite the unexpected attraction, it took all my willpower to force myself to melt against him.

It wasn't a big change, as we were already pretty much as close as we could get, but it felt very different, A second earlier, his body had resembled carved rock; now it was warm, muscled flesh that was very definitely male. His hold loosened, changing into something closer to an embrace. It felt achingly shockingly good. I shifted luxuriously against the muscular thigh that spread my legs, and slid my arms out of his grasp. I ran them up his chest...twining my arms around his neck.

Some of his hair had come loose and was falling about his face in a cloud of shimmering bronze, gold and copper. I wondered briefly if it was as soft as it looked, my fingers flexed with the sudden desire to bury themselves in that shining mass and tangle in a fist...I gently pulled the clip out instead, freeing his hair to tumble around his shoulders. 'Louis-Cesare,' I murmured, 'I have to tell you something.'

A shaft of light from an overhead fixture illuminated the sensual blue of his eyes. The brows over them rose and a wry smile tugged at his lips. Oh, yeah, he knew exactly how gorgeous he was. 'And what is that?'

I whispered my lips along his neck in a soft kiss, breathing in the warm, sweet scent of the man, the one my brain had stubbornly labeled butterscotch. His smile grew wider, softer, more genuine, forming dimples at the corners of his mouth. Curling a hand in the silken weight of his hair, I pressed still closer, until the curve of his ear was against my lips. 'You've underestimated me again.' ..."

Wow school work has been heavy...

I'm only 2 weeks in and already up to my ears in readings! lol luckily though I have time tonight to finish the review on Hannah Howell's novel that I started 2 days ago and I just read Midnight's Daughter by Karen Chance and will definitely be posting on it as well...I am going down to the dining commons now to grab some food with a friend before the crowd gets too bad but should be back in a couple of hours to post like a mad-woman on a book-addiction...*oh wait...lol that is me hee hee*

I'll be baaaaccccckkkkk....*menacing music plays in the background* ;)

*Hannah Howell ~ Beauty And The Beast*

Beauty And The Beast

On the eve of her wedding to the heir of Saiturn Manor, the stunningly beautiful Gytha is shocked to learn that her betrothed, a man she barely knew, is dead. Now she must marry the new heir, Thayer Saturn, a battle-hardened knight known as the Red Devil...


With a face scarred in battle and a heart broken in love, Thayer has no interest in marriage. But not even the Red Devil can break the promise his foster-father made years ago and soon finds himself married to a woman whose exquisite beauty and sweet innocence intrigue him. But can his new bride look beyond his scars to find a hidden passion and undying love locked deep inside him?

~Taken from the Beauty And The Beast book cover~

~~~

~*~My Review~*~

This was one of the littler treasures I found in the Friends of the Library bookstore in my hometown before I left for SB...Beauty & The Beast was always my favorite fairytale (lol I loved the prince's flaws and I loved Bell's intelligence and passion for the written word) however even with my love for the disney story, I was worried this would be some cheap, erotic version of the old tale...luckily though that was not it at all!! Howell has taken the true meaning behind the story (that loves comes from the heart, and that only by loving and trusting with our hearts fully, can we ever know true love) and given it a new, and far more believeable, storyline.

The story of Gytha and Thayer is a complicated, intriguing, and thoroughly romantic story of two people who fall in love, and along the way learn to trust not only each other but themselves as well. What I loved most about this story (aside from the wonderful writing, captivating storyline, and realistic-quality of the entire story) was how the love between the two characters (though beautiful and very important to the storyline) was not what our hero/heroin were struggling towards throughout the book...whereas most books have the characters only discovering their love in the very end of the story, both Gytha and Thayer know they are in love very soon on, however it is trust that they must work towards finding. Both characters must struggle to surpass their own pride and fears to face their inner demons together, in order to truly accept their undeniable love.

This is the first novel I have ever had the pleasure of reading by Hannah Howell, however if this book is any indication for wha can be expected of the rest of her works, then I will be sure to keep an eye out for her other pieces. :)

~~~

~*~Excerpts~*~

"Staring up at him, Gytha decided it was an extremely awkward position. With all that whirled in her head, all that demanded saying, she felt she could get a severe crick in her neck before she was done. Glancing around, she espied a low bench. Grabbing his hand, she towed her startled bridegroom over to it. She then stood upon the bench and stared at him.

'Just what is it that you so abhor about our coming wedding?' she demanded.

'Gytha,' Margaret began in a soft protest.

' 'Tis a reasonable question, cousin. Well, sir? Do you perchance prefer darker ladies?'

'Nay.' He could not tell her of his fears, of how he dreaded a future filled with pain and the shame of being cuckolded.

'Then mayhap I am too short for your tastes?'

'Well, 'tis true that if you were much smaller, I might have trouble finding you.'

'Ah, I see. You wish me to be taller?' She frowned when he shoook his head. 'Thinner? Fatter?'

Despite his efforts to resist, his gaze moved over her figure. He could find no fault there. High, full breasts, a tiny waist and gently rounded hips stirred only intense interest. ...

'None of those. Child, I had a shock....'

...As she decided to drop the matter, voices from the other side of the hedge behind her drew all her attention.

'We should not,' gasped a husky female voice. 'My husband-'

'Is soaked senseless with wine.'

'Your wife?'

'Abed. She cares little how I entertain myself...'

Gytha gasped and looked at Margaret, who hastily covered her reddened face with her hands. ...

In the heat of righteous indignation, she decided that such things would not be allowed in her home. After glaring at the amused men, she leapt off the bench and started around the hedge. Hearing her three companions come after her, she hurried to elude them. The sight of the entwined couple on the ground enraged her. Even as the man saw her and hastened to stand up, she gave him a good kick in the backside. She glared at the couple as they scrambled to pull together their tangled clothing. Them she began to lecture them, punctuating certain statements with an occasional swat at one or the other miscreant. ...

'Oh Gytha,' Margaret murmured when the couple was gone, loving amusement in her voice, 'you should have let be.'

'But Margaret, my mother often strolls here with my father.'

Although his sides ached from all the smothered laughter he had already indulged in, Thayer started again. He joined Roger in whooping with unrestrained laughter. Gytha was staring at the ground as if the trysters had left some bold stain, forever tainting the area. She still looked beautifully indignant.

(lol, this is one of my fave scenes but it's so long I couldn't put it all in...lol just trust me, this book is worth buying!!)

*Karen Chance ~ Cassandra Palmer, Clairvoyant Series (Books 1-3)*

Touch The Dark

Cassandra Palmer can see the future and communicate with spirits-talents that make her attractive to the dead and the undead. The ghosts of the dead aren't usually dangerous; they just like to talk...a lot. The undead are another matter.

Like any sensible girl, Cassie tries to avoid vampires. But when the bloodsucking Mafioso she escaped three years ago finds Cassie again with vengeance on his mind, she's forced to turn to the vampire Senate for protection. The undead senators won't help her for nothing, and Cassie finds herself working with one of their most powerful members, a dangerously seductive master vampire-and the price he demands may be more than Cassie is willing to pay...

Claimed By Shadow

A recent legacy made Cassandra Palmer heir to the title of Pythia, the world's chief clairvoyant. It's a position that usually comes with years of training, but Cassie's circumstances are a little...unusual. Now she's stuck with a whopping amount of power that every vamp, fey, and mage in town wants to either monopolize or eradicate-and that she herself doesn't dare use.

What's more, she's just discovered that a certain arrogant master vampire has a geis on her-a magical claim that warns off any would-be suitors, and might also explain the rather ... intense attraction between them. But Cassie's had it with being jerked around, and anyone who tries it from now on is going to find out that she makes a very bad enemy...

Embrace the Night

Recently named the world’s chief clairvoyant, Cassandra Palmer still has a thorn in her side. As long as Cassie and a certain master vampire—the sizzling-hot Mircea—are magically bound to each other, her life will never be her own …

The spell that binds them can only be broken with an incantation found in the Codex Merlini, an ancient grimoire. The Codex’s location has been lost in the present day, so Cassie will have to seek it out in the only place it can still be found—the past.

But Cassie soon realizes the Codex has been lost for a reason. The book is rumored to contain some seriously dangerous spells, and retrieving it may help Cassie to deal with Mircea, but it could also endanger the world…

~ Taken from Karen Chance's Website:

http://www.karenchance.com/author.html ~

~*~My Review~*~

I remember the first time I came across Chance's Cassandra Palmer series; it was a couple of years ago when I was just getting into the romance genre and I was so blown away by every aspect of the first book Touch the Dark...I remembering thinking there was no way the following books could possibly compare - I couldn't have been more wrong. Every book in this series has been superb! The love I felt for the series from the first book only grew and strengthened as I continued the story with the other books.

Chance captivates her audience in every way possible. Her talented writing and innovative storyline, combined with her compelling characters, make her books instant successes. Now add to that her amazing ability to call upon ancient myths, legends, and fairytales to create a very believable and enthralling world of magic and intrigue, you have what I like to call a "shooting star" (a rare but magical thing we all love to experience).

One of the main things I always need in my books is strong relationships between the characters; it is thru the relationships that we as readers truly come to know the characters in the book, thus falling in love/hate with them. What I truly love about Chance's work is how she not only gives her readers a wide world full of interesting characters to relate with, but she gives them a complexity that is unfortunately often-times lacking in fictional stories. Each character is viewed differently by the other characters, they have secrets that, until revealed, leave us falsly believing we have them pegged and then changing our opinions of them entirely as a new piece of the puzzle is set in place. There are so many characters to adore, despise, pity, love, and hate in this series and believe me when I say, this is a series that will call forth strong emotions and not just inklings of feelings.

I would recommend this series to anyone and everyone. Please read these books...I can promise you that (if you are interested in either paranormal and/or romances) you will enjoy these novels very much. They are amazing and I can only pray the next installment comes quickly.

~*~Excerpts~*~

(Touch the Dark)

"I looked into that handsome face, and some part of me detached itself to watch another illusion shatter and die. I thought I'd finally done something good, that I'd actually helped someone, save somebody, instead of always watching every damn thing I did end in pain - either mine or someone else's. I should have known it was too good to be true, that he was too good. Way out of your leage, Cassie, my girl, I thought as my back hit the door. Maybe you should start smaller, adopt a kitten next time - only I knew there was very little chance that there would be a next time."

~~~

" 'Do you know how you taste, my Cassandra?' he asked me softly. 'I have never known anything like it. You go to my head like aged brandy.' He breathed deeply of the skin above my pulse. 'You cannot imagine how intoxicating I find your scent.' His thumb moved slightly on my waist, up and down the center of my rib cage. It wasn't an overly sexual touch, but I caught my breath. 'Or how very good you feel.' ..."

(Claimed by Shadow)

"I glanced at my nonexistant watch. 'Oops, look at the time. Guess I have to be going now. Let's not do this again sometime, okay?'..."

~~~

"Tomas kissed the side of my head, the only thing he could reach, and looked at me somberly. 'You should not have come back for me - it was a terrible risk. You must promise never to do it again.'

'I won't have to,' I said, brushing his hair out of his eyes. It was always so beautiful, long and black and as soft as a child's. I picked a few leaves out of it with a slightly trembling hand. I was so glad to see him alive that I felt giddy. 'We'll find some way to hide you from the Senate.'

Tomas was shaking his head before I even finished speaking. 'Beautiful Cassie,' he murmured. 'It has been a very long time since anyone was willing to risk themselves for me. Very few ever have. I will remember what you tried to do.' ..."

(Embrace the Night)

"Something lunged at me out of the night. 'Donj't shoot!' a man whispered.

He smelled of sweat, metal and dirt, plus a static crackle of nervous energy that was practically his signature. I turned on the flashlight and saw what I'd expected: a shock of pale hair, which as usual was making taunting gestures in the face of gravity, a square jaw, a slightly overlarge nose and furious green eyes. The Circle's most famous renegade and my reluctant partner, John Pritkin.

I breathed a sigh of relief and clicked my gun's safety on. To know Pritkin was to want to kill him, but so far I'd resisted temptation. 'You shouldn't sneak up on me like that!' I whispered.

'Why didn't you shoot me?' he demanded.

'You told me not to.'

'I-that's-' Pritkin seemed momentarily incoherent, so I shoved the gun's barrel lightly against his stomach. At least I'd thought it was his stomach. I'd only intended to show that I wasn't defenseless, but in a flash, I was slammed against the side of a crypt, my gun arm pinned ot the wall, my body stuck between the hard surface and a very angry war mage. I reluctantly admitted that there may have been a fantasy or two that began with this scenario, but I doubted the evening was going to end in the same way."

~~~

"His lips were on mine, his hands cradling my head so he could kiss all the breath out of my body, and he was pushing me down against the bed. And then his lips were everywhere-my collarbone, the side of my neck, the crease between my breasts, my jaw-and it hit me that he wasn't just choosing spots at random. These were places he'd thought about, and that was almost enough to send me over the edge."

I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry...

I am soooo sorry...I got so caught up in moving away from home that I didn't even realize I never posted reviews for Karen Chance's series!!!! *Bows head in shame* I was going on and on about how I was waiting to post a review on them until I'd read all three in order and then I actually forgot to post a review on these magnificent books!! How can I have forgotten?? It's one of my fave series (lol, I suppose I should stop now before I turn this into the review!) No worries though, I'm gonna work on Chance's review right now ;)

Hope you all like it!

Smile,
Cherie

My Dorm Room!! *I got a single*

*This is the view from my window*

(And of course I would be remiss if I did not mention my books. I tried to narrow it down, I really, truly, honestly did, but can I be blamed if I have fallen in love with too many of them to only bring 20 or 30 books? Lol that's right...I wound up bringing somewher around 120 books with me - and I still miss those left behind at home)

*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."

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 =)

Bad Habits Tend To Come Back To Bite You In The 'Arse'

I know I shouldn't do it. Even as I say this I am doing it. I am jumping in between books. Although in my defense some of these are books I have read many times over, but still...It's just one day I'll be craving paranormal romance and the next I'll be in desperate need for a little historical love match. Can you really blame a girl for wanting to experience all of her favorite fictional loves all at once?...don't answer that.

At the moment I am still working on Karen Chance's Cassandra Palmer Series (I LOVE THESE BOOKS!!! But am having trouble focusing on them at the moment because I have already read the first two many times over and, while I am head over heels for them, I still find myself distracted by all of the books I have yet to read.) On top of Chance I am also working on Karen Hawkins' MacLeans' novels (I feel so horrible because I had actually read them out of order-unknowingly of course-and so now I am reading them in the correct order.) From what I have already read these books are supremely fabulous and this series is already in my top 5 historical romance series list...in fact I daresay it might possibly fall in my top 3 list (high praise indeed). ;)

Ok so here's a quick update on the going-ons in my life:
* My uncle from Germany is paying us a visit so we're all making sure to spend some quality time with him.
*I am still preparing for UCSB - it seems as though there's always something else to be done in regards to preparing for being there. I tremble in imagining what the actual being there will be like.
*I found out my speeding ticket will cost just under $100 so not great but definitely not as horrific as I imagined it would be - plus the amount I will have to spend on traffic school to get it off my driving record.
*I am currently volunteering at the used bookstore I told you about so long ago (not the quaint shop with the cats but the Friends of the Library store whose profits go to the public library and whose prices will tempt you to take up permanent residence within its walls). It looks as though I will be volunteering there every Tuesday! :) I really enjoyed my first day of volunteering yesterday; the volunteers are all in their 60's and 70's so the company is darling and the shop itself has this comfortable feeling to it. Plus (the true bonus): I get a sneak peek at all of the books before they get on the shelves on Friday hee hee. I've already found three books that I intend to buy by the end of the week.
*I also went to see The Dark Knight with my uncle today. It had to have been one of the best movies I've seen all year and I definitely suggest it to anyone and everyone - especially if you are a Batman fan like I am. I Love The Bat! Haha.

Well I guess that's all for now...I'm going to shut down my computer now and loose myself in the pages of one of my books...I'll post a review for Hawkin's MacLeans series as soon as I finish them (in order) which should be very soon indeed. Hope you have a wonderful day/evening.

Sweet Dreams,
Cherie

Blog Might Be Slim-Pickings For The Next Week Or So...

Alrighty-O, here's the dealio (lol can't remember where I heard that but like it all the same)...I am leaving town for a couple of days starting tommorow to attend a concert with some friends. I will be back the 19th but will then be gone again from the 20th through the 25th (I'm going for orientation for UCSB so I will be spending the first three days in lovely Santa Barbara and the remainder of the time in San Diego on a little mini-vaca). I will be taking my laptop with me on my week long trip but am not sure how often I will get the chance to come onto my blog but I promise to try my hardest to find the time.

I just finished reading To Catch A Highlander last night and wowsers!! I will try to post a review tonight because I doubt I'll find the time tommorow and this book sooo deserves a shout-out. =)

I am currently rereading Karen Chance's ABSLUTELY BRILLIANT AND BREATHTAKING Cassandra Palmer Series because I feel I need a brush up before (finally) reading the third novel!! And since I read those novels before I started this blog, I have yet to post any reviews on them so be prepared for a full out review bonanza on Karen Chance here in the near future ;)

Ok well I suppose that's all for now...TTFN :)

*Kerrelyn Sparks ~ The Love At Stake Series*

(Ok I was bad and didn't read this series in order...although I am so not at fault! It's not my fault Sparks made Jean-Luc's story too irresistable to wait for. Anyways, I have only read three of the books from the series. I have yet to read the second book in the series however I really enojoyed the ones I have read and knowing me I will likely forget to read the second book for months and in doing so would likely deprive you of a review and that won't do. WARNING: There may be some spoilers in my review so you may not want to read more than the first book's review...)

How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire: Nobody said love was perfect...Roman Draganesti is charming, handsome, rich...he's also a vampire. But this vampire just lost one of his fangs sinking his teeth into something he shouldn't have. Now he has one night to find a dentist before his natural healing abilities close the wound, leaving him a lop-sided eater for all eternity.

Things aren't going well for Shanna Whelan, either. After witnesing a gruesome murder, she's next on the mob's hit list. And her career as a dentist appears to be on a downward spiral because she's afraid of blood. When Roman rescues her from an assassination attempt, she wonders if she's found the one man who can keep her alive. Though the attraction between them is immediate and hot, can Shanna conquer her fear of blood to fix Roman's fang? And if she does, what will prevent Roman from using his fangs on her...?

Be Still My Vampire Heart: One look at her was enough to stop his heart...if it was still beating. Angus MacKay has been undead for almost five hundred years and it's not often something, or someone, surprises him. Until Emma Wallace. The sight of this luscious agent from the CIA's elite Stake-Out team was enough to stop Angus in his tracks. But then he discovers that she's a vampire slayer, intent on killing the "monsters" who killed her parents. And it's Angus's job to stop her.

The only good vampire is a dead vampire. It's been Emma's motto since she committed her life to the destruction of these things. Now Angus MacKay wants to convince her differently. Sure, he's a sexy Highland warrior who seems to have stepped off the cover of a romance novel, complete with brogue, kilt, and sword, but he's also one of them. And it's her job to kill them.

The war is on, but will it end in the destruction of one or both of them...or in total surrender to a passion for the ages?

The Undead Next Door: Three signs that something is very DIFFERENT with your new man:

1. He sleeps all day...which would be annoying except he's so attentive at night.

2. He's attacked by sword-wielding assailants, yet insists he can handle it on his own.

3. He never seems to age.

Heather Westfield has always lived a quiet life, but that all changes when she helps a very handsome, very mysterious stranger. There's something not quite right about Jean-Luc, but still, she's never been with a man so charming, so attractive...so wonderful. Now if only a murderous villian wasn't after them, they might get their happily-ever-after.

~Taken from the backs of the books themselves...for more information see Spark's site:

http://www.kerrelynsparks.com/ ~

~*~My Review~*~

This was my first encounter with Kerrelyn Sparks's work and I must say I was very impressed. I really liked her Love At The Stake Series (a very good name for a vampire series in my opinion) and I hope she continues writing novels within the series. I do feel a bit ashamed at the fact that not only did I skip one of the books but I also failed to read them in the correct order. I started off with How To Marry A Millionaire and was immediately craving more, however I made the mistake of reading the reviews for The Undead Next Door and simply couldn't resist giving in and reading it before the others. Then once I had finished Jean-Luc and Heather's story, I went on to Be Still My Vampire Heart (another amazing title!) and enjoyed reading about Angus and Emma. I absolutely enjoyed all three books, however if I had to choose a favorite I would likely have to say the first book in the series (Roman and Shanna's story) was my fave - although it is a tough call.

There were many wonderful aspects to this series. Sparks's writing is very witty and entertaining, captivating her audience throughout each story and leaving them longing for more. I also really liked that her books are a nice blend between Lynsay Sands' Argeneau series (with its wit and light-hearted feel) and Christine Feehan's Dark series (with its highly-developed characters and sense of passion/love) - although I'd say it resembles Sands' series more so. And amazingly enough each story is very unique - a huge feat in a romance series. And finally, what I loved most about Kerrelyn Sparks's series was how normal and natural she made it all seem. She introduces you to a wide variety of characters who repeatedly participate in each storyline, giving you the sense that you are progressing with them. By the time you have reached The Undead Next Door each character holds a certain familiarity for the reader - almost as if you and the characters are one big family. I know I certainly had favorites by the time I finished reading the three I read (such as Ian, phil, gregori, and oh...I could go on forever *hee hee*).

Long-story-short, I really enjoyed these books with their lively wit, detailed (loveable) characters, unique situations, and romanctic meanings and am looking forward to being immersed into the fanged world once again.

~*~Excerpts~*~

(How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire)

"He grabbed her by the wrists and pinned her against the door. 'By God, woman, you are hard to control.'

'You better believe it.' She pulled against his grip, but couldn't free her wrists.

He leaned closer. His breath stirred her hair and feathered her brow. 'Shanna,' he whispered her name like a cool breeze.

She shivered. His hypnotic voice tugged at her, lulled her into a sensation of comfort and security. False security. 'I won't let you kill me.'

'I don't want to kill you.'

'Good. Then let me go.'

He lowered his head, his breath tickling her body. Oh God, he was going to touch her. Maybe even kiss her. She waited, her heart hammering in her chest.

His voice whispered in her ear, 'I need you.'..."

(Be Still My Vampire Heart)

"In a mere second, he'd reached behind his head, pulled out a sword, and pointed it at the flasher's neck. With a gasp, Emma froze. He had a sword? And not just any sword. This sword was huge.

The flasher halted, his eyes wide with fear. He gulped and promptly wilted down south.

'I told ye mine was bigger,' the Scotsman growled. 'Make a move for the lass again, and I'll be shortening yers by a few inches.'

'Don't hurt me.' The flasher backed away, closing his coat.

The Scotsman advanced, his sword only inches from the flasher's fluctuating Adam's apple. 'I suggest from now on, ye remember to wear yer knickers.'

'Sure. Whatever you say, man.'

'Leave us.'

The flasher scurried away, disappearing around the bend. The Scotsman lifted the sword over his head so he could slide it back into its sheath. The long blade made a soft scraping noise as it slid home. ...

'Doona worry. Ye're safe now.'

'I'm supposed to feel safe with a stranger who's packing a humongous weapon?'

He smiled slowly. 'I told ye mine was bigger.'

What typical male arrogance. 'I was referring to your sword. Not your wee willie.'

He gave her an injured look. 'If ye're going to insult my size, I'll have to defend myself by offering ye proof.'

'Don't even think about-'

' 'Tis a matter of honor.' His mouth twitched. 'And I'm a verra honorable man.' ... He stepped closer, lowering his voice. 'Admit it lass. Ye were wanting a private showing.'

'Ha! Of all the...I'm going now. Goodnight.' ..."

(The Undead Next Door)

"Show was moving into view. And what a view.

She had curves. And breasts. A derriere a man could grab onto. And mounds of auburn hair that fluffed around her shoulders. She was like the old movie stars he had loved to design clothes for. Marilyn Monroe. Ava Gardner. Lusty, full-figured women. And her was a beautiful one, right in front of him. Her black dress clung to a luscious hourglass figure.

He caught a glimpse of a pert nose, slightly titled up at the tip. The woman in question pushed her hair behind her ear. She had high, wide cheekbones and a sweet curve to her jaw. What color were her eyes? he wondered.

She was a natural beauty. An angel.

She retrieved some items from her purse - a small writing pad and a pen. No, a pencil. She was writing something. No, sketching. His mouth dropped open. She was drawing his new gown. Stealing his design.