My Reading Journey

~The Smoke Thief~ by Shana Abe

2009-02-07T10:48:00.005-05:00

2. Book that was read and Reviewed in the Fall Challenge

My expectations were very high for this book, the story begins with a quick history of the drakon, then begins with background story of Clarissa and Chrsitoff. The story jumps few years later and we discover that Clarissa now Rue has become a thief, she is no regular thief she has special powers, but unfortunately are only those that are drakon. Now that Christoff is older and has taken the place of his father he along with the council know they need to find this mysterious thief who has the same powers and bring them back before they are discovered, but no one knows who it could be. Once Christoff arrives he is also done in by the thief, but using his special powers he begins to track the thief.

Up onto this point I was really into the story and enjoying it very much, but about midway through the story went downhill, toward the end of the story it again comes alive but only for a few pages. I wanted to give it 2 stars, but again the beginning was great and again dragged me in at the end, so I went for 3. I know so many enjoyed this series, but not sure what I missed but during the middle of the book I had to force myself to pick up and continue.

~Only With Your Love~Lisa Kleypas

2009-01-24T21:36:00.003-05:00

This is the second to Only in Your Arms and is the story of sons of Maximillien Vallerand, Philippe and Justin.

Philippe is returning to Louisiana with his wife Celia, but they are attacked by pirates, and Philippe is killed and thrown overboard in front of his wife. Celia is resuced by Captin Griffin who is rough with her and ends up taking her virute. He eventually delivers her to her in-laws the Vallerands, and makes a shocking discovery, that Captin Griffin is Justin, brother to her dead husband.

Justin and Celia develop feelings, and Justin begins to change his rough ways, but others stand in the way, some wants justice for Justin's being a pirate, but can the Vallerand's save him? His father wants him to become his brother so he may stay safe, but will he be able to pull it off?

A great story, I did not enjoy it asw much as the first book.

~ It's Good to be Queen ~

2009-01-06T20:46:00.005-05:00

Wow, another challenge could not resist this one love reading about Royalty....

Chose 2-4 books on any women who reigned as Queen.

Your Queen can be from any era as long as she she held the title Queen Or Empress at some point in her lifetime.

The books can be Fiction or Nonfiction which ever your prefer
The Challenge starts January 30,2009 and runs til June 2, 2009.

I am going for Four books...
1. The Life of Elizabeth I ~ Alison Weir
2. Catherine de Medici: Renaissance Queen of France ~ Leonie Frieda
3.
4.

~Victorian Challenge~

2009-01-06T19:50:00.009-05:00

The challenge starts the 1st January 2009 and ends the 30th June 2009 click on banner for the rules and to join.

Reading Levels:

A drink at Whitechapel: 3 books
A walk in Hyde Park: 4 books
A tour of the British Museum: 5 books
A visit to Buckingham Palace: 6 books

Great idea for a challenge I want to go for A visit to Buckingham Palace....hope to see you there!!

1. Uncle Silas by Sheridan Le Fanu

2. Tess of the D'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy

3. Book by Elizabeth Gaskell

4. Undecided

5. Undecided

6. Undecided

A To Z Challenge

2009-01-05T07:01:00.006-05:00

Read titles A to Z. Commit to reading 26 books theoretically speaking

Click on photo for more information & to sign up.

Taking suggestions for tiltes that begin with "X" and "Z"

An Offer from a Gentleman

Beguiled ~ Shannon Drake

Come this Spring ~ Julie Garwood

Dangerous to Know ~ Mary Jo Putney

Emily's Secret ~ Jill Jones

For the Roses ~ Julie Garwood

Guardian Angel ~ Julie Garwood

Her Man of Affairs

It's in His Kiss ~ Julia Quinn

Jane Boleyn

Kissed by Shadows

Lady Elizabeth ~ Alison Weir

Martha Peake

Never Lie to a Lady

One Night with a Prince ~ Sabrina Jeffries

Phillipa

Queen of Dragons ~ Shana Abe

Ransom ~ Julie Garwood

Sense & Sensibility ~ Jane Austen

Three Little Secrets

Until You

Villette

Wicked

You Belong to my Heart

The 2009 Support Your Local Library Challenge

2008-12-31T23:12:00.004-05:00

I love to go to the library, but do not go as often as I used to, and when I found this challenge this challenge this will be a great way to get back into checking out more books in 2009. Since we are all different, there will be three sizes of challenges. ** The first is to read 12 books from your local library in 2009. ** The second is to read 25 books from your local library in 2009. ** The third is to read 50 books from your local library in 2009 Click on photo for more information.

I commit to reading at least 12 from my local library, I hope to do more.

Historical Fictional Reading Challenge 2009

2008-12-31T22:57:00.002-05:00

Looking forward to participating in this challenge again. Read 3 historical fiction books in 3 months from 1st Jan 09 - 31st March 09. Historical fiction will be counted as anything set or written prior to World War II. This will include classic novels, time travel novels or anything you feel fits the genre. Click on photo for more information and/or to join.

The Countdown Challenge

2008-12-18T06:36:00.005-05:00

I like the idea of this challenge, I can go back and read some books I missed for the past eight years once I read a book I will add and link it to my review. Click on the photo for rules and to join. This challenge lasts from 8/8/08 through 9/9/09 and is retroactive.

2009 - 1.
2009 - 2.
2009 - 3.
2009 - 4.
2009 - 5.
2009 - 6.
2009 - 7.
2009 - 8.
2009 - 9.

2008 - 1. Lady Elizabeth ~Alison Weir
2008 - 2. Enchanting the Lady ~Kathryne Kennedy
2008 - 3. The Desert King ~Olivia Gates
2008 - 4. Your Scandalous Ways ~Loretta Chase
2008 - 5. Seduce me at Sunrise ~Lisa Kleypas
2008 - 6.
2008 - 7.
2008 - 8.

2007 - 1. The Bone Garden ~Tess Gerritsen
2007 - 2. Castle of the Wolf ~Sandra Schwab
2007 - 3. Blackthorne's Bride ~Shana Galen
2007 - 4. Her Irish Warrior ~Michelle Willingham
2007 - 5. The Leopard Prince ~Elizabeth Hoyt
2007 - 6. The serpant Prince ~Elizabeth Hoyt
2007 - 7. The Queen of Dragons ~Shana Abe

2006 - 1. The Handmaiden's Necklace ~Kat Martin
2006 - 2. The Alchemist's Daughter ~Katharine Mcmahon
2006 - 3. Peneloope & Prince Charming ~Jennifer Ashley
2006 - 4. The Raven Prince ~Elizabeth Hoyt
2006 - 5. The Dream Thief ~Shana Abe
2006 - 6.

2005 - 1. Prince of Darkness ~Sharon Kay Penman
2005 - 2. The Bride's Necklace ~Kat Martin
2005 - 3. The Devil's Necklace ~Kat Martin
2005 - 4. The Smoke Theif ~Shana Abe
2005 - 5.

2004 - 1.
2004 - 2.
2004 - 3.
2004 - 4.

2003 - 1. Dragon's Liar ~Sharon Kay Penman
2003 - 2. Suszanne's Diary for Nicholas ~James Patterson
2003 - 3.

2002 - 1. Kiss the Bride ~Patricia Cabot
2002 - 2.

2001 - 1. Midnight Bride ~Susan Carroll

The 2009 Pub Challenge

2008-12-18T06:32:00.001-05:00

Read a minimum of 9 books first published in 2009. You don’t have to buy these. Library books, unabridged audios, or ARCs are all acceptable. To qualify as being first published in 2009, it must be the first time that the book is published in your own country.

This will be a great challenge for me, I get stuck reading so many older books that have been in my TBR forever that I do not read anything current so that will change with this challenge, I just don't know what books yet.

Click on the photo to sign up... hope to see you there.

Only in Your Arms ~ Lisa Kleypas

2008-12-16T23:38:00.005-05:00

I read the book titled Only in Your Arms, but it was re-published under the title When Strangers Marry which I think is a better title.

Lysette is on her way to New Orleans to marry a man she loathes, but her stepfather has arranged the marriage which her mother, sister and aunt all inform her she has no choice but to do her duty and marry this man. Lysette arrives to find the man more appalling then she remembered and decides to run away. Lysette does not get very far when she is discovered by twin brothers Justin and Phillipe, who hand her over to their father Maximillien Vallerand.

Lysette begs them to not return her and once Max realizes who she is to wed his mortal enemy he agrees she can stay, and he quickly realizes he can use her to seek revenge. Max confides this to his mother and ask her to organize a wedding for him and Lysette. Max's mother is against the marriage, but knows she will not be able to stop her son, but she will let Lysette know that Max is suspected of murdering his first wife, Corrine Vallerand.

The enjoyed the love story of Max and Lysette, and the great mystery and suspense of what happened to his first wife and why she was a pawn in this revenge game. I normally do not read many novels written about early American, but I do enjoy stories based in the great city of New Orleans. I will begin the next book which is Only With Your Love which is based on Max's two son's.

Wallflower Christmas ~ Lisa Kleypas

2008-12-16T23:38:00.004-05:00

Rafe Bowman older brother to Lillian and Daisy two of the wallflowers is coming to England for Christmas. His father is playing matchmaker and insist he marry Natalie Hannah Applegate was sent by Natalie's father to visit with Rafe, his sister's and their friends to prepare the way for Natalie. Hannah disliked him immediately, but she knew for her cousin she must try his manner's were horrible and very outspoken. Rafe is infatuated with Hannah and kisses her before she leaves, which leaves her in a state of shock.

Hannah returns to Natalie and they begin to pack to join Rafe and his family for Christmas, she does not disclose the kiss to her cousin, but deep down feels that the match will not work. Her cousin intends to marry him no matter how horrid Hannah describes him. I hated the way Natalie treated Hannah she came across as a “goody-goody” who was helping her poor cousin, I did not like Natalie and was glad the story did not revolve around her. Once they arrive Rafe is constantly pursing Hannah and although she refuses to have anything to do with him, she begins to fall in love with him. Natalie tries to get Rafe alone she wants to be kissed by him and wants him to wed her. Hannah begins to feel jealous of their relationship, since she is not as pretty and does not have the money she knows she would never marry anyone like Rafe.

I have been looking forward to reading this book, the cover is lovely and I was so looking forward to the reunion of the wallflowers. The story was to short, therefore no depth into Rafe or Hannah the main characters. I enjoyed Rafe and Hannah, but hated their story was over so quick I feel the book was rushed and the story over much to fast. The wallflowers had small stories that were summed up to fast. I felt the story needed more meat so I only rate it a 3.

Prince of Darkness ~ Sharon Kay Penman

2008-12-16T23:31:00.005-05:00

The last book on Justin de Quincey, or maybe not but is currently last book. Lady Claudine summons Justin on behalf of Prince John who needs his assistance. Justin is upset but he is the Queen's Man and believes she would want him to assist John. Someone is plotting against Prince John they claim that they have a letter where he has planned to kill his brother Richard, he needs Justin's help in proving the document is a forgery. Justin and Durand set out to prove John's innocence, but stumble upon dead monks and a lady who is deeply involved in this conspiracy against John. Immediately suspicion falls on Justin and Durand when they are discovered with the bodies, they quickly invent a story to get away. The plot thickens as to who you can trust and who is behind the murders.

Another great blend of secondary characters I loved how finally Justin was partnered with his nemesis, Durand who unknown to John is loyal to the Queen, and in the prvious books there was lots of tension between these two, but to see how they come together to unravel the plot against John is great.

I hope she writes another story with this great characters.

~ 9 Books for 2009 ~

2008-12-16T14:17:00.005-05:00

These are the NINE categories to celebrate 2009! This is will be a Challenge that I can only read 3 books on this list for other challenges, so there will six books that can only be read for this challenge. For more information on the cataegories and to see rules click on the cute photo.

1.Long
2.Free: The Smoke Thief -Shana Abe
3.Dusty
4.Used
5.Letter
6.Strange
7.Distance
8.Alive or Not : The Wild Hunt ~Elizabeth Chadwick
9.Cover: Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World -Vicki Myron

~ 2nds in a Series Challenge ~

2008-12-16T13:29:00.005-05:00

Another great challenge to go along with the 1st in a Series Challenge & Serial Challenge.

Read 12 books by authors that you have only read once. It doesn't have to be a series.

You can join anytime between now and December 31, 2009. Don't start reading until January.

To join please click on the photo.

My Projected List:
1.The Dream Theif
2.Emma
3.Until You
4.Two Little Lies
5.Reckless
6To Kiss a Spy
7.To Pleasure a Prince
8.Love me Forever
9.The Visount who loved me
10.Time & Chance
11.The Gift
12.Rising Tides

~ 1st in Series Challenge 2009 ~

2008-12-16T13:13:00.010-05:00

Read 12 books that are the first in any series. You may read & list your chosen books any time during the year.

I love series books and this will go perfect with the Serial Challenge, and also works with the 2nd's Challenge.

If you enjoy reading books in a series and would like to join click on the photo for more information.

1.The Smoke Theif -Shana Abe
2.Rosamund -Betrice Small
3.One Little Sin -Liz Carlyle
4.WickedThe Widow's Kiss -Jane Feather
5.In the Prince's Bed -Sabrina Jeffries
6.Man of My Dreams -Johanna Lindsey
7.The Duke and I -Julia Quinn
8.When Christ & Saints -Sharon Kay Penman
9.Castles -Julie Garwood
10. Sea Swept -Nora Roberts
11. Undecided
12. Undecided

~ New Author Challenge 2009 ~

2008-12-11T12:41:00.005-05:00

I love to discover new authors (like I need to add to my TBR pile and Wish List) so I am excited to join this challenge and go for 25 which is steep, but I am up for the challenge. To view more details on the challenge click on the photo and you will be directed to the host site. I plan to post the new authors and the books as I read them.

Looking forward to discovering some new authors.

Prisoner of My Desier ~ Johanna Lindsey

2008-12-10T09:29:00.004-05:00

I have read many romance novels and have never read anything along this storyline very shocking.

Rowena Belleme, is being forced to marry a very elderly man by her greedy stepbrother, Gilbert who wants her to quickly produce an heir with him. Gilbert wants her to increase her holdings, although she owns land that has been in her family for sometime, but he needs to increase his fighting power to save what he has left from his sworn enemy Warrick deChaville who he has already tried to seize one his holdings and failed, and needs a bigger and stronger army before Warrick returns.

Rowena goes along with the marriage, but then a something happens and she is not able to consummate the marriage. Her brother then arranges for another man to be brought to his sister with the same hair and eye color as her husband, and is forced to do the unthinkable or her mother will die. The man is held captive in a room and tied down with chains and gagged he tries to resit her, but he is unable to. He is so angered that he lost control he plots his revenge while he is held prisoner. Rowena lets him know she likes this no better, but she has no choice. Rowena finally decides she no longer can keep this up and she has him released secretly.

Unknown to Rowena or Gilbert the man that was captured is Warrick deChaville, and when he comes back for his revenge he captures Rowena and has her thrown in his dungeon until he returns, but he has no idea she is the sister of his enemy Gilbert. Once he returns home he has her released and brought to his room where he turns the tables on her and seeks his revenge, once he is done with her he strips her of her title “Lady” and treats her as a serf and leaves her in his household to rule over her and have her do manual labor and wait on him. He takes her personal clothing and gives it to his daughter’s to wear in order to hurt her. The staff is shocked, since he has never treated a woman like he has Rowena.

Rowena, decides to turn the tables on him, but in a different way, but will it work? Warrick, believes she is up to something, but he begins to warm up to her. When he is called away he misses her, but he learns something while away and he feels betrayed again by her.

WOW, is all I can say about this story there are several scenes some may find offensive I normally skip over those parts, but not with this storyline I had to read it. I could not put the book down; I was so gripped by the storyline and what would happen next I read this book almost in one day. I have read a few of her books and by far this is my favorite book. I enjoyed both characters, and you could almost feel the heartache both of them felt when they had to be so cruel to each other, and the pain they had to work through to find love. If you have not read this Lindsey book I recommend it, but it is not for the faint of heart, some of the scenes are intense. This is on my keeper shelf.

2009 Romance Reading Challenge

2008-12-07T14:28:00.006-05:00

I read lots of Historical Romance and I found this challenge and decided to add to my growing list of '09 challenges. Please click on photo and you will be directed to the host blog.

Choose at least 5 novels read them between Jan 1st though Dec 31st 2009. You can change your choices at any time. Crossovers between other challenges are fine. I will post the romance novels as I read them and a link to the review.

The Perfect Wife ~ Victoria Alexander

2008-12-07T08:15:00.000-05:00

Sabrina is a widow left alone to raise her daughter Belinda, she gave up her wild past and became a very proper woman obeying all of the society rules to ensure her daughter a good marriage. Belinda becomes engaged to Erik the son of the Earl of Wyldewood. The only problem is Sabrina has no dowry to offer, due bad investments she has been left penniless. Sabrina discovers her husband won a letter that gives the location of gold that was hidden in Egypt, the answer to her money problems. She lets her butler in on her upcoming adventure who has accompanied her in the past, with his help she locates others from her past to assist her. Once her daughter discovers what she is planning she begs her finance to help, he goes to his father the Earl of Wyldwood, Nicolas. When he arrives Sabrina is packed and ready to go he insist she cancel the trip, when she does not he decides to accompany her. Once they sail Sabrina stays in her room, she is worried that he will discover her past and call of the marriage, she decides to stop hiding and deal with him. He tells her that he had her investigated and she would make the “Perfect Wife” for his status, unaware of her wild past. Sabrina decides that maybe marriage to him would guarantee her daughter’s marriage to Erik so she offers to marry him, with the understanding his is only a marriage of convenience, he agrees.

When I opened the book and read the prologue I really was looking forward to this story, but nothing every happened I was so bored reading the book the story was cluttered, the plot was not rewarding I am surprised I finished the book. I did enjoy some the secondary characters the were more enjoyable then the main characters. I read one other book by her and it was much better then this.

~18th & 19th Century Women Writers Reading Challenge ~

2008-12-04T21:22:00.007-05:00

How many books? No fewer than four. No more than twelve.

What books are allowed? If they’re written by a woman who lived and wrote from 1700 to 1900, then they count.

Timeframe…January 1rst 2009 to December 29th 2009

This challenge is hosted by Becky for guidelines and to sign up click on photo.

Titles I plan to read:
1. Frankenstein ~ Mary Shelly
2. Wives & Daughters ~ Elizabeth Gaskell
3. Villette ~ Charlotte Bronte
4. Emma ~ Jane Austen

The Wild Hunt ~ Elizabeth Chadwick

2008-12-03T11:01:00.009-05:00

Elizabeth Chadwick is my favorite author, I have most of her books and she is an auto buy for me. The Wild Hunt was her first novel and I have been unable to get my hands on it the few I have found are high priced. I am so excited the book is now available she has published this book again, and it also has been re-edited.

Her medieval stories are so beautifully written and the characters come to life that I become emotionally attached to them. I get so lost in her books I dread coming back to reality.

From Elizabeth Chadwick's Website:

'To save his inheritance, Guyon FitzMiles is forced into a marriage alliance with heiress Judith of Ravenstow. Judith too is a reluctant partner in this match, but in the turbulent political world of the late eleventh century they must co-operate or be destroyed. Winner of a Betty Trask Award for a best first novel.

Her books are not published in the US, but in the UK. I purchase mine at The Book Depository they have FREE SHIPPING Worldwide. I ordered my copy today.

~ Casual Classics 2009 ~

2008-12-01T14:24:00.008-05:00

I love the classics and have always wanted to read more of them, so when I found this challenge I knew it would be perfect for me.
For rules and to join click on picture and you will be directed to the host blog.

Read 4 “Classics” between January 1st and December 31st, 2009
1.Sense & Sensibilty ~ Jane Austen
2.Emma ~ Jane Austen
3.The Woman in White ~ Wilkie Collins
4.The Count of Monte Cristo ~ Alexandre Dumas

~ Medieval Challenge~

2008-11-30T15:08:00.007-05:00

The challenge runs between 8th August 2008 and 8th February 2009.

Click banner to visit the Medieval Challenge Blog

You therefore have 6 months to complete this challenge You can join anytime. You can read modern Medieval novels, non fiction, classic texts, plays and even watch a film as part of the challenge...you choose!

There are three levels to the challenge - you choose your own level.

1: Serf* Read 3 Medieval texts
2. Gentry* Read 5 Medieval texts
3. Royalty* Read 6 Medieval texts

I am going for *Royalty* the books I plan to read (or have read)
1. ~~The Queen's Man by Sharon Kay Penman~~ (9/17/08)
2. ~~Cruel As the Grave by Sharon Kay Penman~~ (10/14/08)
3. ~~Dragon's Lair by Sharon Kay Penman~~ (11/30/08)
4. ~~Prince of Darkness by Sharon Kay Penman~~ (12/9/08)
5. The Falcons of Montabard or A Place Beyond Courage by Elizabeth Chadwick
6. Undecided

Thanks to Lynda for hosting this and letting me join.

~Bookworm Award~

2008-11-30T11:52:00.003-05:00

Heather awarded me with the Bookworm Award!! I love the graphic and it is my first award. Thanks Heather.

I can appearantly share this with others, this is how it works:
Open the book closest to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56. Write out the fifth sentence, as well as two to five sentences following there.
The book closest to me is The Falcons of Montabard by Elizabeth Chadwick. I am considering reading it for the Winter Challenge and have not put it away or with my challenge books yet.

Page 56. Sentences 5-10:
Annais gazed briefly into its sinuous bright mirror and resheathed the weapon. She knew that she ought to lace up the flaps of the shelter, but could not bring herself to do so. Her father wanted to protect her by keeping her in ignorance, but Sabin was right in his assesment. She did need to know.

Now I have to tag 5 of my fellow bloggers!
1. Becky
2. Kate
3.Teddy
4.Dani
5.Tanzanite

Brave the Wild Wind ~ Johanna Lindsey

2008-11-29T20:34:00.002-05:00

I don't read a lot of stories that take place in America, but this challenge read a book that took place in Montana and this one in Wyoming and I did not realize until halfway through, I had it marked as part of a series. When Kenneth Jesse Blair was born his father could not have been happier until a few weeks later the midwife finally admitted the baby was a girl, and the baby became known as Jessie. Raised by her father alone since he beat her mother almost to death when he found her with a man. Jessie was raised as the son he never had and was taught to despise her mother she runs the ranch better then most men, and when her father dies her father makes her mother guardian over her and comes to the ranch to live for awhile with her son Billy and friend Chase Summers.

Jessie is not happy with her mother's interference or this Chase person. Jessie, runs away to her Indian friends they have always been kind and treated her as a woman. Chase nor her mother are happy about her association with the Indians and Chase goes to find her and bring her home. There is an attraction between these two and Chase finds himself falling into love with her. Jessie makes it clear that neither him nor her mother are wanted there and wishes they would leave, but they both love her and want to help her, but how do they convince her of that.

This is a different story and some surprises along the way the book in some places I would rate a 2 and others 5+, I enjoyed Jessie's story and her heartache. I rate this book a 4.

The Wedding ~ Julie Garwood

2008-11-29T19:24:00.004-05:00

This book is the 2nd book of a series, but can be read alone. Alec and Jamie Kincaid are secondary characters in this story. Lady Brenna and Connor MacAlister first met when she was a little girl and at that time proposed to him. Brenna is on her way from England to Scotland to marry a man she has never met, Connor's enemy. Connor has been seeking revenge for his father's death and plans to intercept his bride since she proposed to him when she young. When Connor arrives she stands her ground and will not leave to marry him, but he lives choice in order to save her father's men who were guarding her she agrees to marry him.
Connor and Brenna do not see eye to eye on how a wife she act, I enjoy how Brenna constantly defies him and does as she pleases all the while she is also eager to please her husband, his staff, his men and even his stepmother. Connor is a strong and keeps his feelings deep inside he lost his mother when he was young and new the heartache his father suffered from the loss. He attempts to keep Brenna `in line' but in the end always relents.
His two trusted men Quinlan and Crispin are great and seem to enjoy the way Brenna does not back down from their laird. Brenna is looking forward to arriving at her new home and meeting her step mother, who Connor is also excited to see her. Brenna is shocked to see how her new home looks, and sets out to make things look more like a home, but her stepmother and her son have other ideas they set out to destroy all her plans and make her feel inferior in her own home, instead of seeking her husbands assistance she takes matters into her own hands and things go from bad to worse.A great love story with some great secondary characters, I enjoyed the humor in the story and Brenna's determination to win Connor over.

Movie ~ The Other Boleyn Girl

2008-11-24T22:52:00.012-05:00

As usual I am behind in watching movies, maybe I spend to much time reading :)
A thumbs up for bringing History to the big screen, normally these films do not do well at the box office, but I believe it brings a new audience and fans to the genre of Historical Fiction.

Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn't. Mark Twain

I always try and read a book before I watch the movie, Hollywood loves to put their spin on things and add and delete great parts. The movie was fast and skipped many scenes, but overall I enjoyed the movie and the character choices. Many more books have been written on Anne Boleyn girl and plan to obtain and read them.

The sister who won his heart........... Nothing sister! Except sing your praises and talk about my husband.

The sister who stole his heart....... Younger than me, more beautiful than me, married before me. I'm eclipsed! *I'm* the other Boleyn girl.

Click photo to view trailer

2009 ~ Serial Readers Challenge

2008-11-21T15:52:00.010-05:00

A great challenge for those who love to read books in a series, and I do. Beth (Carpollqueen) is hosting this great challenge for 2009 for requiremnets please click on the photo.

This is draft of the books in a series I would like to read in 2009 I hope I can add more. Looking forward to this challenge. Thanks Beth.

Drakon Series ~ Shana Abe
The Smoke Thief
The Dream Thief
The Queen Dragon
The Treasure Keeper (March '09)

The Bridgertons ~ Julia Quinn

1.The Duke and I

2.The Viscount Who Loved Me

3.An Offer from a Gentleman

4.Romancing Mister Bridgerton

5.To Sir Phillip, With Love

6.When He Was Wicked

7.It's In His Kiss

8.On The Way to the Wedding

Necklace Trilogy ~ Kat Martin

1.The Bride's Necklace

2. The Devil's Necklace

3. The Handmaiden's Necklace

Highlands' Laird~ Julie Garwood

1.The Secret

2.Ransom

3.Shadow Music

Lyon Series ~ Julie Garwood

1.Castles

2.The Gift

3.Guardian Angel

4.The Lion’s Lady

Claybornes' Brides (Rose Hill) ~ Julie Garwood

1.The Clayborne Brides
2. For the Rose
3. Come the Spring

Trans Siberian Orchestra

2008-11-21T12:36:00.008-05:00

Last night me and my friends attended our second TSO concert and had a blast. The show is specular very entertaining and lots of energy. The concert started around 8pm and it was non-stop till almost 11pm. I have always enjoyed their CD's and we decided last year to attend the show again.

The music and the light/laser show is unbelievable. The first half plays lots of traditional Christmas songs with electric guitars, an electric violin, drums, keyboards and a small orchestra and a narrator who is awesome telling a Christmas story. The blend of classic Christmas songs and metal were unique and great way to spice up the traditional songs we have heard hundred's of times.

The light show is amazing the lights dance along with the music so no matter where you are at in the arena you will see an amazing show. I would recommend to everyone if you have never saw the show live to check it out.
Trans Siberian Orchestra

The Bride and The Beast ~ Teresa Medeiros

2008-11-19T13:11:00.003-05:00

When she was younger Gwendolyn Wilder dreams of being swept off her feet by Bernard McCullough, the heir to succeed as the laird of Ballybliss. Disaster strikes and someone betrays his father the castle is attacked and no survivors are left.

Fifteen years later Gwendolyn still leaves in Ballybiss where she takes care of her father and sisters. Although Gwendolyn never believed in Dragons the town did and recently discovered a letter left by him, which they approach Gwendolyn and have her read his current demands. The Dragon ask for more food and now money, the town believe they can chase him away with a virgin sacrifice and the only person that fits that description is Gwendolyn.

The town takes her ties her up and leaves her for the Dragon, when the he appears out of the mist she faints. He takes her back to his lair where he pampers her never revealing his face. She becomes quickly becomes attracted to him and the mystery surrounding this façade of his. He wants to tell her the truth, but decides he cannot the town people soon discover that he is a man and come to capture him. Gwendolyn persuades him to go on without her she will stall them, he leaves but returns in time to rescue her again from the people and he decides to reveal himself to her. Betrayed and heartbroken she leaves, but can the Dragon make her understand his motives and maker her love him again.

I enjoyed most of the book a few disappointments.

Charming the Prince ~ Teresa Medeiros

2008-11-19T12:32:00.000-05:00

Story begins in 1347 England with a young and eager Lady Willow of Bedlington waiting by her father’s side for his new wife Lady Blanche and her new mother. Willow has always wanted a mother to love and is certain Lady Blanche will be excited to have a daughter. Lady Blanche finally arrives, but no alone to Willow’s surprise she already has children of her own. Willow is not at all welcomed into the blended family she is out casted by her stepmother and her new brothers and sisters treat her horribly.

It is now 1360 in England and Sir Bannor the Bold has returned from the war with father of 12 motherless children he sends out his trusted friend to find a woman who likes children, but is homely looking so he want be lured into her bed to produce more children. He returns with Lady Willow who is not at all homely but beautiful. Willow had been without love for so long she yearns for her prince and wants Bannor to be him.

Willow learns of his reputation fathering several children out of wedlock and does not believe he will ever truly love her. Willow is determined to have the love of her husband all to herself so she seeks out the town whore for assistance.

Willow bonds with the children, and with their help tries to capture Bannor’s heart, but is disappointed when yet another baby arrives at the castle who Bannor claims as his own. What can Willow do to win his heart? A nice heartwarming book really enjoyed the theme and the children. 4 Stars

Kiss the Bride ~ Patricia Cabot

2008-11-16T00:47:00.007-05:00

We begin in London, 1832 the heroine Emma Van Court wants to marry Stuart Chesterton, a very religious minded man. Emma intends to make her plans known to James Marbury, Earl of Denham. James is not all happy about the idea of Emma marrying his cousin. He does not believe Stuart will be able to support them. Emma gets no support from her family either to be married to a curator so her and Stuart elope and move to Scottish Hebrides.

When James receives word that Stuart died six months ago he immediately goes to Scotland to arrange for his remains to be returned to London. When James arrives he finds Emma barely making a living as a school teacher. Emma is distraught over James coming to remove her husband’s remains she persuades him to return to London. While James returns to the town to have a meal he soon learns that the man that killed Stuart left in his will a large sum of money to Emma once she marries again. He pays her a visit at the school to find a man trying to force her into marriage. James comes to her rescue and spends the night at her home.

The next day he decides to call out this man, when they arrive at his run down castle he finds Emma already there and she comes between the two men, after some arguing James offers to marry her for protection and tells her in private once she has her money she can have an annulment.

The events happen quickly the book is a fast enjoyable read. I also discovered halfway through the book that Patricia Cabot writes as Meg Cabot the young adult author. I enjoyed the book and give it 4 Stars and look forward to reading her other novels

Winter Challenge 08

2008-11-15T23:52:00.014-05:00

1. Reader’s Choice Place any book here

The Queen's Dragon: Shana Abe

2. Book that was read and Reviewed in the Fall Challenge

The Smoke Thief: Shana Abe

3. Read a book that has a “D” word in it for December

The Dream Theif: Shana Abe

4. Read a book that has an arranged marriage or Marriage of Convenience

~~The Perfect Wife: Victoria Alexander~~

5. For Valentines Day, read a book that has love, kiss or heart in the title

Forbidden Love: Karen Robards

6. Read a book by Lisa Kleypas

~~Only in Your Arms~~

7. A book that makes you think about Christmas

~~The Christmas Heiress: Adrienne Basso~~

8. A title that has 4 words in it

9. Read a story that has a military or civil servant (firefighter/cop/fbi/clan chief/commander) in it –can be any genre

~~Prisoner of My Desire: Johanna Lindsey~~

10. Read a book that has a Viking or Pirate in it!

~~Only With your Love: Lisa Kleypas~~

11. Pick a book that was first published in 2008

~~Wallflower Christmas: Lisa Kleypas~~

12. Read a series (Harlequin or Sillehoutte)

Reckless: Shannon Drake

13. Read a book that the author has 3 names (ie Susan Elizabeth Phillips/ Karen Marie Moning)

~~Prince of Darkness Sharon Kay Penman~~

14. For the New Year-Pick a book that has been in your TBR pile for a long time --Out w/ the old in w/ the new!

Daughter's of the Grail: Elizabeth Chadwick

15. Read a book that has a “W” word for Winter

~~Wicked: Shannon Drake~~

The Judas Kiss Victoria Holt

2008-11-14T18:07:00.001-05:00

Victoria Holt not a new author she has written books for many years and this is the 2nd book I have read that she wrote. I enjoyed this story which begins with Phillipa (Pippa) Ewell finding a newspaper clipping and discovering her sister Francine was murdered. The story returns to the girls childhood and we learn they lived on their parents on an island after his father left his home when he pursued being an artist which was against his father's wishes. The girls parents died close together and since they had no where to go they were returned to their father's home Greysone Manor.

The grandfather welcomes the girls but has strict requirements for their upbringing as he did their father and his sister. Francine soon learns she is wed her cousin Arthur who is a man of the church and he will also inherit the home. Francine rants to Pippa she will never marry him she will leave first, she does not have long and a family that visits periodically shows up to open their home for a visit the girls decide to investigate the family who is German and they are discovered in the home. The girls are welcomed and invited to the a ball they will be hosting. The sisters begin to scheme on making a dress for Francine and getting her to the ball in secret. The plan works and Francine enjoys herself and meets a wonderful man who she decides to run away with to avoid marring her cousin.

Pippa receives a letter from Francine describing her quick marriage at a local church, and another letter detailing the birth of her son. Since her sister abandoned her duties at Greystone Manor Pippa learns her grandfather plans for her to marry Arthur now. Pippa has learned of her sister's death and decides she must also leave. Pippa is out walking the grounds when she discovers the neighbors will be visiting again soon and she meets Conrad who traveled ahead he sweeps he off her feet and he knows of her sisters murder she tells him of her marriage and child which Conrad explains that she could have never married nor was there a child.

With everything Pippa has recently discovered she makes plans to leave and discover the truth of what happened to her sister and her child The novel has great suspense and a wonderful story that keep me up reading.

My rating 4 stars.

Montana Debbie Macomber

2008-11-06T14:12:00.002-05:00

Molly Cogan single mom of 2 boys Clay and Tom living in CA in the big city was under the stress of her ex-husbands being in jail no child support his trial, her son’s disobedience and then a phone call from a Sam Dakota a foreman on her grandfather’s ranch in MT the Broken Arrow, to tell her his health is bad and has little time.

With no money, Molly decides to sell everything she owns and moves to Montana. When she arrives at the ranch she is shock to see the beloved home she once loved run down. Her grandfather was never the same after her grandmother Molly (who she was named after) died. Her grandfather who also looks bad does not let on anything is wrong with his help.

Molly soon discovers that some things have been damaged on the ranch and the sheriff is pointing fingers at Sam. She is not crazy over Sam anyway but her grandfather and boys adore him. Molly does not believe her grandfather looked into his references enough before he hired him, but he assures her he is a fine man.

In town there is a prostitute named Pearl who is having a private affair with a lawyer Russell, but she unfortunately involved with some shady characters, the same who are also wrecking havoc over at the Broken Arrow.

Molly is shocked when her grandfather insists she marry Sam, he even offers him a type of dowry land and cattle. Molly is furious that he would suggest marriage to a man she barely knows.

Enjoyed the mystery of the story, the storyline between Molly and Sam was lacking in the love department. Pearl and Russell what little was mentioned had a much better love story, enjoyed the twist at the end was not expecting that.

Cruel as the Grave Sharon Kay Penman

2008-10-28T22:05:00.003-04:00

Justin de Quincy is back again in the 2nd book of this medieval series. Justin is called upon by a friend to solve the murder of a 15-year old Welsh girl Melangell who was killed in the church graveyard. The accused are two brothers who seem to be hiding something are not helpful in solving the mystery of this young girl. The father also seems to be hiding something. Again Justin has his work cut out for him to find a killer and the reason why.

It is April 1193 and Justin is summoned back to court by Eleanor of Aquitaine while Richard the Lionheart sets in a German prison his younger brother John seizes Windsor Castle and the Queen ask Justin to undertake a dangerous mission by asking him to mediate a truce with John. Also, Justin discovers that Claudine de Loudun is with child and she wants to abort the child with special herbs, not sure what to do Justin confides in the Queen, which upsets Claudine. The Queen arranges for Claudine to leave and have the child and home found for the child.

I do not read many mystery's, but the clues that Justin was able to discover and how he unraveled those clues were interesting. Although, not a terrible read was not as good as the first book and I was not impressed with the discovery of the killer. Many of the same characters return in this book, which I enjoyed.

Midnight Bride Susan Carroll

2008-10-28T19:30:00.000-04:00

The third and final book in the St. Leger Series. The story focuses on the youngest twin son of Anatole and Madeline St. Leger, Dr. Valentine "Val" St. Leger born on Valentines Day. He has a gift that enable him to draw pain from others, but when he used this on his twin brother he was not able to control the power and it left him crippled. Val was told by the bride finder Effie Fitzleger that he did not have a chosen bride, although he was disappointed he accepted his fate never to marry.

Kate Fitzleger, adopted daughter of Effie was in love with Val he was her teacher, friend, and confidante and she knew in her heart that she would marry Val. Kate was shocked when Val turned her down, she was so broken-hearted she knew what she had to do. Kate took it upon herself to visit the ghost of the St. Leger's, Prospero St. Leger in hopes to cast a love spell on Val. Although, Kate new the warnings of marrying a St. Leger that was not chosen by the bride finder would mean death for her, but Kate was sure that was a myth. Kate took a book of spells against Prospero's warnings and chose All Hallows Eve to cast her spell. That night the lightening flashed and thunder roared, and unknown to Kate many things changed.

What happens to Val becomes a mystery to Kate, he was always so kind and thoughtful but now has this dark side that she cannot explained. In another part of the country the family rival Rafe Mortmain has also been affected somehow his dark side has gone, and he now has feelings that he cannot explain. Victor a cousin of Val who has never even looked at Kate is now crazy in love with her. Kate is so distraught over this she seeks out the ghost Prospero again who explains she will have to wait for 30 days before she can undo the spell on these men.

The story is so fast paced, you cannot wait to read what happens next. This book was a great read, but the first story is still my favorite of the three.

Tatiana and Alexander - Paullinja Simons

2008-10-19T16:02:00.003-04:00

*** SPOILER ALERT**** Second book please see review for first book here:
The Bronze Horseman

Luckily this book was already out when I discovered this series I could not wait to continue the story of Tatiana and Alexander. Again I was so captured by the love story of these two and in this sequel Alexander tells the story and what a story.

The Leningrad war is still in progress and Tatiana who is carrying Alexander's child flees to America. Tatiana tries to start a new life gets a job and makes friends, but she cannot forget the love of her life Alexander who she believes is dead. Unknown to her he sits in a prison awaiting execution.

Tatiana has information that Alexander may still be alive, so she returns to find Alexander. Again these two endure more life struggles and find themselves in some scary situations.

I am always skeptical about a series, but without a doubt this story was as intriguing and I was so drawn in again to the characters. Again 5 Stars...

The Bronze Horseman - Paullina Simons

2008-10-19T15:35:00.003-04:00

I have not read a novel based on either WWI or WWII, but the reviews of this novel and that is takes place in Russia appealed to me. I was quickly drawn into the story the characters Tatiana and Alexander are so real and their story is so genuine it was easy to fall in love with them. The setting in Leningrad during the Nazi invasion is such a horror the citizens living in fear of the bombings and food had to be rationed and many starved to death so many that the bodies were piled outside of the cemeteries. Paullina Simons story is so powerful it really pulls at your hear strings.

The story begins with Tatiana at the age of 17 and she meets Alexander at a bus stop, it is love at first sight. Not long after the two meet Alexander is taken away by the war. The two are meet by so much tragedy and you want their hopes and dreams to come true, their story has so many turns and twist you cannot put the book down you want to know what happens next. This book is so much more then a love story it is about the human will to love and survive I recommend this book to everyone.

The ending will leave you hanging so I recommend you have the 2nd book which is Tatiana and Alexander. I give this book 5 STARS

The Bell Witch - Brent Monahan

2008-10-17T22:20:00.005-04:00

I happened to be flipping through channels one evening and came across a movie titled "The American Haunting" in the beginning of the credits "Based on a true story". Not one to watch horror flicks (don't care for the gore) I was interested in the idea the events may be true. The movie was not that great, but I became very interested in the Bell witch, and found this book.

The story begins present time when a manuscript is discovered that has never been open, the recipient turned it over to the Brent Monahan who converts the manuscript to book form. The manuscript is written by a school teacher who witnessed some of the events and later matter the daughter of John Bell. The story then begins in central Tennessee in 1811 John Bell has been taken in front of the church members by a citizen, Kate who tells him that his family will suffer.

John took no heed Kate's statements. The family begins to hear faint noises of tapping, rats chewing wood but are unable to locate the sources of the sounds. The noises begin to get more intense and soon his daughter Elizabeth is dragged from her bed and slapped, but no one there. The family believes somehow Kate is behind this strange happenings. The family begins to loose sleep and are unable to prove what is happening. The begin to open their home to close friends to assist in finding the source of what is going on, which they are unable to do.

As time goes on they begin to hear voices, and start calling this ghost "Kate's Witch". The witch begins to communicate with the members of the family and say she is there until John Bell dies, which will be very soon. The witch tends to disturb Elizabeth more then other members of the family. Many friends and outsiders come to home to uncover this mystery, but have no luck.

I was really into the beginning of the story, but then it begins to drag. It was not written for entertainment, but more of the events that took place in the home. Eventually the last few chapters become interesting and the storyteller uncovers the mystery of the bell witch that left me in total shock.

Very interesting, not a thriller or bestseller but worth the read. If you enjoy mystery and actual events then I recommend the read.

The Queen's Man - Sharon Kay Penman

2008-10-17T22:18:00.001-04:00

1st Book of the Justin de Quincy Series

New author for me and I am pleased to say I thoroughly enjoyed the story. This is the first book in a series that begins in 1192 with the main character Justin de Quincy who grew up as an orphan and was taught by a high ranking bishop who paid for his education, housing etc. During his search for his mother he discovers the bishop is his father.

Justin sets out to find his fate in the world, when he stumbles upon an ambush where he witnesses a murder. As the goldsmith lies dying he ask Justin to deliver a message to Queen Eleanor. Once he delivers the letter the Queen becomes worried her son King Richard the Lionheart has been missing for a couple of months and her youngest son John is plotting to take over the throne.

Queen Eleanor is impressed with Justin and asks him to identify the killer(s). He gladly accepts the task. Justin returns to the town of the goldsmith to begin his investigation, here he discovers some interesting characters. Who can he really trust?

The book is well written nice quick read, very little romance, nice plot and some twists. I am looking forward to reading the remaining 3 books in the series.

The Night Drifter - Susan Carroll

2008-10-17T22:13:00.003-04:00

I could not wait to read the 2nd book of The Bride Finder series this book begins with the two of the children from our main characters in book one, Lancelot the eldest twin son and heir has returned from the war and his parents are away and he is left in charge. Lance would rather not have these responsibilities, but oldest son it is his responsibility. The story begins with the loss of the St. Leger Bride Sword - a priceless family heirloom that gets passed on to the brides found for St. Leger men by the Bride Finder.

Lance, like most St Leger family he also has a power which is to separate his soul from his mortal body and night drift. Thinking this a great way to search for the stolen sword he happens upon a young widow Rosalind, who believes him to be Sir Lancelot de Luc of King Arthur's Round Table. Rather than let her know the truth he plays along with her and tells her he is looking for a missing sword, which is part truth.

Rosalind visits Effie Fitzleger, granddaughter of the original Bride Finder Lance shows up with his brother Val to seek her assistance in finding a bride for Val. Effie is hit with a feeling for a bride not for Val, but for Lance, who happens to be Rosalind. She does not recognize Lance as her nightly apparition and wants no part of this reputed St. Leger rakehell.

Lance decides to continue as Sir Lancelot at night in order to convince her to give Lance St. Leger a chance to redeem himself during the day.

Susan Carroll develops another mystery, and explores into the ghost Prospero, I believe his the remainder of his story will come out in the last book. Carroll has given us a new plot with interesting characterizations, but the book was enjoyable and I liked the characters, but somewhat slower then the first book. Eager to story book three.

The Bride Finder- Susan Carroll

2008-10-17T22:09:00.003-04:00

Anatole St. Leger who has special powers is a descendant of some interesting family members. Anatole carries some emotional scars from his childhood along with the visible scar on his forehead. He knows he needs to marry and contacts the Bride Finder, who selects all the St. Leger’s brides. If the bride is not chosen by the Bride Finder he will be cursed as his father was who did not follow tradition. He is very stern with the requirements of his bride and makes a list. Unknown to Anatole the resident ghost Prospero switches the list.

The bride, Madeline, and her cousin arrive from London and are soon greeted at the front door by Anatole, who immediately grabs the cousin and kisses her passionately. In shock the cousin flees and leaves Madeline alone to face her husband who in no way resembles the photo in the locket she carries around her neck given to her by the Bride Finder. Madline is left to wonder did she do the right thing should she flee as her cousin or stay and try to fall in love. Her visions of prince charming sweeping her off her feet are fading fast.

Madeline struggles to reach deep within Anatole to discover his dark past, while Anatole struggles to keep the past a secret.

The story has it all twist, mystery, suspense, interesting characters, magic and a beautiful romance. I love it when I find new authors to read, I cannot wait to read the remaining 2 in the series.

Fall '08 Reading Challenge

2008-10-02T13:48:00.028-04:00

1. Title that reminds you of a fairytale (Once upon a time, Prince Charming, Beauty and the Beast, Princess)

~~Prince Charming: Teresa Medeiros~~

2. Book based on the cover: ~~The Bride and The Beast: Teresa Medeiros~~

3. Read a book that was read and reviewed on the blog in the Summer Book Challenge

~~The Wedding: Judy Garwood~~

4. Read a book from a genre you have not read yet (or if you have read all genres, read from the genre you read the least) ~~The Bride Finder: Susan Carroll (paranormal)~~

5. Read a book that has an "N" word in the title for November: ~~The Night Drifter Susan Carroll~~

6. Read an author that last name or first name starts with "S" for September:

~~Midnight Bride: Susan Carroll~~

7. Read a book by Johanna Lindsey ~~Brave the Wild~~

8. For Halloween…. Read a book that is "spooky" (ghosts, vampires, werewolves, mystery, suspense)

~~The Bell Witch: Brent Monahan~~

9. Title with an address or a place in it (city, State, lake, cottage, river, etc) ~~Montana: Debbie Macomber~~

10. Title that has a name in it (Nicknames are okay) ~~The Judas Kiss: Victoria Holt~~

11. Read a Series Book: ~~The Queen's Man: Sharon Kay Penman~~

12. Read a Series Book: ~~Cruel as the Grave: Sharon Kay Penman~~

13. Read a New (to you) author ~~Kiss the Bride: Patricia Cabot~~

14. Title that has an animal in it ~~Dragon's Lair: Sharon Kay Penman~~

15. Title that is 2 words ~~Magnificent Passage: Kat Martin~~

Elizabeth Chadwick.....coming this fall

2008-06-28T00:02:00.010-04:00

Elizabeth Chadwick writes historical fiction and is a must read for me. When I open one of her books I get the feeling I am back in time. This October she will be releasing 2 books.

1. The Time of Singing: Expert from Amazon.uk Available in Hardback Oct 2, 2008.

In 1173, Roger Bigod is heir to the vast and powerful earldom of Norfolk When his treacherous father, Hugh, loses the family lands and castles in a rebellion against King Henry II, Roger finds himself in reduced circumstances and dogged by a bitter family dispute with his half brother over the remaining crumbs. Whilst trying to resolve the matter, he encounters Ida de Tosney, the King's young mistress. Seduced by Henry, Ida's gaze is now drawn to Roger in whom she sees a chance of lasting security beyond the fickle dazzle of the court. But she has to navigate a careful path between her dearest wishes and the King's reluctance to part with her. Every fulfilled wish has its price, and that price is losing the son she has borne to Henry. When King Richard comes to the throne, Roger is restored to his family's lands and becomes a great earl, and one of the richest men in England. He builds a great castle at Framlingham for himself and for Ida, but life is still riddled with uncertainty as Richard goes on crusade and the men left to govern the country quarrel their way into civil war. Ida struggles to come to terms with their new future...

2. A Place of Courage Expert from fantasticfiction.com Available in paperback October 4, 2008.

The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper, and royal servant John FitzGilbert Marshal is one of them. Raised high, as the kin of the deceased King Henry battle each other for England's throne, John reaps rich rewards but pays a terrible price for the choices he makes ? as do his family. His wife, fragile, naive Aline is hopelessly unequipped to cope with the demands of a life lived on the edge and, when John is seriously injured in battle, her worst nightmare is realised. Sybilla, bright, forthright sister to the Earl of Salisbury, finds herself used as a bargaining counter when her brother seeks to seal a truce with his troublesome neighbour, John FitzGilbert. And then there is Sybilla's small son, William, seized hostage by the King for John's word of honour. But sometimes keeping your honour means breaking your word

Come and join the Book Blowout Challenge

2008-06-27T11:32:00.006-04:00

I am joining yet another challenge, the July Book Blowout this can be done with my current challenges fits in well.

It's being hosted by Mrs. S of Blue Archipelago. The goal is to read as many books as possible from:July 1, 2008 -July 31, 2008.

Before August 7, 2008, you post the list of books that you've read. I am sitting myself a goal of 10 I normally read between 6-8 depending on the size of the books.

And Only To Deceive Tasha Alexander

2008-06-26T16:19:00.002-04:00

The story is set in 1890’s Victorian London and tells the story of socialite Lady Emily Ashton who marry Phillip only to get away from her overbearing mother. Not long after they are married Phillip dies from an illness during an expedition to Africa. Emily knows very little about her husband and is unaffected by his death. Almost two years later she receives Phillip’s journals she learns her husband was an antiquities collector and apparently loved his new wife deeply.

Emily is her own woman and does not care to do as society dictates, learning that her husband was a scholar she decides to read some of his books and begins to learn more of ancient Greece. Phillip collected many antiques and donated them to museums for everyone to enjoy, but when Emily visits their country estate she finds the originals that she thought was in the museum. She cannot accept the horrible truth that he husband may have been a forger. Two of his friends who are also courting her now become suspects, but which one helped Phillip in his deception or his donations.

She soon learns that Phillip may not have died in Africa, so she sets out to uncover the truth.

The novel was a quick read, the story predictable, but I enjoyed the characters and the plot and the language. I give it 4 Stars.

The Prince Kidnaps a Bride

2008-06-22T22:48:00.001-04:00

I have finished The Missing Princesses Series and was eager to read Sorcha's story the oldest of the three sisters, and I was not disappointed. This book had me from the first page, again Dodd brings action, mystery and a wonderful romance to life in this book.

Sorcha has been hidden away in a remote convent for her safety, but a mysterious fisherman rows to shore and a fire starts that quickly puts her life in jeopardy so a plan is constructed to get her back home. Prince Rainger disguised as the fisherman called Arnou, plans to escort Sorcha to her homeland, but is surprised to find she has left with another.

Sorcha disguised as a boy has no idea that Prince Rainger is alive and following her, when he is able to catch up with her he is still disguised as the fisherman, but something is familiar about him. They continue on, but soon she finds herself more comfortable with him and they share a kiss, Sorcha wants more, but Rainger wants her to have it all so he want allow their feelings to go to far.

The two end up in a village of where people from both Richarte and Beaumontagne live. Sorcha still disguised as a man does not fool the people they know who she and the fisherman really are. In order to share the same room, they must wed unknown to Sorcha this is actually a royal wedding.

Eventually she finds out the identity of the fisherman and is very distraught. They return to Beaumontagne, where things are still in turmoil. The man who locked Rainger up for eight years still rules Richarte.

Again, I enjoyed this story the characters romance is more genuine and enjoyable. I felt so many emotions reading this story and enjoyed the whole cast. I was happy the third book was good as the first in the series. FIVE STARS *****

The Barefoot Princess Christina Dodd

2008-06-22T22:47:00.002-04:00

The second book in The Lost Princesses series and tells the story of Amy the middle sister who left her sister Clarice in Scotland in the first book. This story was also great with some mystery and danger. The love story itself fell flat for me in the middle of the book, not much chemistry between Jermyn Marquess of Northcliff. The secondary characters were wonderful.

Amy who washes up on shore and is found by Miss Victorine, and soon finds out how poor her living conditions her and everyone else is due to the lack of funding from the Marquess. Amy kidnaps him and shackles him in the basement of Miss Victorine's cottage. They soon send a ransom to his Uncle Harrison in order to help locals regain their losses. To their dismay the uncle refuses to pay the ransom.

Jermyn is surprised to learn his captures are the dear Miss Victorine and an unknown female companion. He has never trusted women since his mother abandoned him at a young age. Jermyn always enjoyed Miss Victorine when he was young and thought him very handsome and never believed his mother abandoned him. Soon Jermyn begins to fall in love with Amy and she confides in him that his uncle will not pay the ransom and come to the conclusion he does want him dead.

They begin to set a plan in motion to prove his uncle has been plotting his murder for years, but things don't go as planned. Prince Rainger also shows up to question Amy about her older sister and where she might be.

I rate the book as a four the beginning and ending were the best, the middle fell flat since I could not get into the characters falling in love it was to quick and no chemistry.

The Love Knot Elizabeth Chadwick

2008-06-20T22:26:00.006-04:00

The story takes place during the feud around 1140 between England’s King Stephen and his cousin Empress Mathilda. The story begins when Oliver Pascal smells something burning and decides to investigate. When he arrives what he finds is a horrible scene and his friend who has been raped by lawless mercenaries, she soon miscarries and dies. The only survivors are her 10 year-old son and Catrin her widowed maid. Oliver escorts them to Bristol Castle, home of Earl Robert of Gloucester, who Oliver hopes will help him reclaim his family lands.

Catrin becomes bored and finds a friend in Ethelreda who helped raise Oliver. Ethelreda introduces and teaches her the ways of a midwife. Catrin is a quick study and is soon at Ethelreda’s side helping the local women with their births. Oliver and Catrin are attracted to each other, but are afraid. Oliver’s wife died in childbirth and does not want to be close to anyone, and Catrin loathes the thought of reliance upon and tries to ignore her feelings. They cannot run from their feelings and fall in love.

Ethelreda sees something bad in Catrin’s future, and warns’ her to watch out for this unknown man on a horse. Oliver is soon called into battle where he is captured. Catrin decides to go and ransom him, when she arrives she discovers her husband who was supposed to be dead. Catrin’s old feelings for him quickly returns and she chooses her husband over Oliver.

Soon Catrin realizes she made the wrong choice by going with her husband. Catrin is with child and soon gives birth. Their home becomes under attack, her husband leaves for reinforcements, but never returns.Catrin makes a decision about her and her child’s future, she must return to Oliver.

Catrin arrives she find Oliver badly injured during a fight when he visited his homeland, and she begins to nurse him back to health. Soon they begin to live their life together until Catrin's husband makes his final demand on her loyalty ...

Wow an amazing story there is so depth to this book and the characters. Every time I read an Elizabeth Chadwick book I am drawn back into time.

2008-06-14T18:10:00.002-04:00

Read my first book in Christina Dodd's The Lost Princesses series, reading this book was like a breath of fresh air since the last few books have been duds great choice for a summer read. This book has it all from suspense, damager, mystery, love, strong woman, and a hero and the old men in the village are a great set of characters.

We learn in the prologue that three princesses (all sisters) are exiled into England and lose contact with each other and their country. The Prince of Richarte sets out to find the three princesses, but before he does he makes a bargain once he returns them all he will choose one to marry.An enchanting beauty rides into the town of Freya Crags her name is Princesses Clarice she has come to sell her potions to make women beautiful and appealing. Robert MacKenzie the Earl of Hepburn, is wary of this exquisite stranger, but she stirs emotions in him that have been dead for years. Although, not sure if she is being honest about being a princess he intends to use her in his scheme of revenge.

Soon we are introduced to another great characters Robert's sister Millicent. Also, we meet Clarice's younger sister Amy, who has a minor roll in this story. I could not wait to read the next page to find out what was going to happen next. Why did Robert want Clarice to pretend to be someone she was not, who was this hero Ogley, and the mysterious man sneaking outside Robert's home. I do hope to some of the characters show up in the next book, which I cannot wait to read.

I read another series by Dodd that was OK, but so far this one rates very high and I cannot wait for the next story..... 5 STARS

2008-06-10T16:50:00.002-04:00

The story takes place in colonial times (1784) in Kentucky. The book begins with Linnet Blanche Tyler and her parents who left England for the American countryside. They are raided by Indians who steal the children and kill the parents. Unknown to them Linnet is not a child but a grown woman, when the Indians realize the mistake they made they are mad and begin to torture Linnet. She is soon rescued by Devon "Mac" Macalister and in return all he wants from her is to learn to read, which I don’t think ever happened.

He takes her to a small settlement Sweetbriar where we meet several characters including Devon’s cousin Cord. An incident with Cord and Linnet leaves her almost dead, her I was appalled that she gets no sympathy from Devon due to his jealousy. Linnet finally has enough of his rubbish and leaves town and possibly carrying Devon’s child. Many events transpire which makes the story an interesting and quick read.

The novel was up and down, for me I felt no emotion the characters are under developed, I did not like Mac at all in the story, even with a few good qualities they never made up for the treatment of Linnet. His anger and jealousy controlled him and never redeemed himself in my opinion. I wanted more of a background on both main characters and not so much fighting.I give it 2 Stars.

2008-06-05T13:20:00.002-04:00

As the title suggests the book is about “The Pretenders” Baron Reeve of Ormsby, Earl of Cambridge and Deborah “Deb” who pretended they were engaged so that Reeve could get his hands on his inheritance. I cannot “Pretend” I liked the book, I kept reading in hopes something would happen, but I was greatly disappointed.

Reeve lost both parents and his father appointed his Uncle guardian over his estate and finances until he felt he was responsible. Well Reeve could not keep himself from visiting the gambling rooms or betting on horse races in which he entered his own horse and ended up not finishing the race and owing money that his Uncle did not want to pay out. In order to insure his uncle would pay off his debts he needed to get married.

Once he discusses his dilemma to Deb she agrees to pretend an engagement, her mother supports her since Reeve has always been so good to them since her mother only gets a small allowance from her step-brother.

The story has great potential but fails miserably, no chemistry between the two main characters. There are parts left out of the story, and I don’t understand why some of the things happened. There is only one book I have not finished reading during my lifetime of reading and this was almost the second, I just felt obligated to finish.

I give it ONE STAR.

A Well Rounded Challenge

2008-06-02T13:21:00.007-04:00

A Well Rounded Challenge

Dates of Challenge 7/1/2008-12/31/2008

Could not resist this challenge!!! What a great idea.

To be well-rounded however means stretching yourself to include as many challenges (and books) as you can fit into this six month time frame. I will add more books on 7/1 not sure what I will have read by t hen.

Romance Book Club Reading Challenge:
1. Midnight Lady Rosemary Rogers

Historical Reading Challenge:
2. The Conquest Elizabeth Chadwick

2008 Summer Reading Challenge:

Romance Book Club Reading Challenge 2008

2008-05-27T22:40:00.010-04:00

a. Read a romance by an author you have never read before
~~The Other Boleyn Girl: Philippa Gregory~~

b. Read a romance that includes a wedding-related word in the title such as Bride, Groom, Bridesmaid, Bridegroom, Wedding
~~A Bride Most Begrudging: Deeanne Gist~~

c. Read a romance with a provocative word in the title such as Seduced, Wicked, Scandal, Dangerous, Tempt, Scorned, Compromised
~~To Wicked to Love: Barbara Dawson Smith (revised)~~

d. Read a romance with a color name in the title (ex. Red Roses Mean Love)
~~The Scarlet Lion: Elizabeth Chadwick (revised)~~

e. Read a romance with the word LOVE either in the title or the author's name
~~The Love Knot: Elizabeth Chadwick~~

f. Read a romance with a proper name in the title (ex. Seducing Sir Oliver)
Midnight Lady: Rosemary Rogers

2008-05-27T22:23:00.003-04:00

Royal Harlot: A Novel of the Countess Castlemaine and King Charles II

Susan Holloway Scott

This book tells the story about Barbara Villiers Palmer who is not a virtuous character, and one I was very unfamiliar with. Her story was a quick and interesting read. Although not a great story I enjoyed learning more about this infamous woman of history. The story begins when Barbara returns home under orders from her mother to make a suitable match with no dowry. Barbara is soon seduced by Phillip Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield and falls in love in love with him, but Phillip has no desire to settle down and soon finds another to replace Barbara. Barbara's bawdy reputation soon lands her married to Roger Palmer, a Royalist who supports to restore Charles Stuart to the English throne. She is sent by her husband with letters and money to the King, who is fascinated by the lusty and courage's woman. Once Charles is established to the throne Barbara soon becomes his Mistress, although Charles does eventually marry him and Barbara continue their sexual escapades. She has five children and four are known to belong to Charles. Although Barbara finds many enemies at court especially the Queen, she continues to be demanding and keeps Charles at her beck and call with her sexual appetite. I only gave this book 3 stars, I felt to sexually explicit, "TMI" (to much information) for me and some parts were way out there, for a movie rating I would say X-rated.

Summer Reading Challenge

2008-05-27T22:13:00.024-04:00

June 1st-August 31, 2008 Read 5, 10 or 15 books for this challenge:

1. Title includes name of flower: The Orchid Hunger-Jill Marie Landis
2. ~~Title includes the word “LOVE”: The Love Knot-Elizabeth Chadwick~~
3. ~~Title that has a wedding word: The Prince Kidnaps A Bride Christina Dodd~~
4. ~~Title with a Color word: Silver Angel-Johanna Lindsey~~
5. ~~Book with a ONE word title: Sweetbriar-Jude Deveraux~~
6. ~~Read one new author: Venetia Georgette Heyer~~
7. ~~Title that includes Prince or Princess: The Barefoot Princess Christina Dodd~~
8. Title with a jewel: Sapphire - Rosemary Rogers
9. Title with a word that makes you think of summer: A Summer to Remeber Mary Balogh
10. Title includes a “W” word: Wild Orchids-Jude Deveraux
11. Title that includes a number: First Lady Susan Elizabeth Phillips
12. ~~Title with a Time: Some Enchanted Evening Christinia Dodd~~
13. Title with Lord or Lady: For My Lady's Heart-Laura Kinsale
14. Author first or last name begins with “J” for June/July: The Pretenders-Joan Wolf
15. Author first or last name begins with “A” for August
Only To Decieve-Tasha Alexander

A Bride Most Begrudging

2008-05-14T10:34:00.004-04:00

This was my first Christine novel, and it seems I am in the minority on this one so many 5 stars and I say 2 ½, it was highly overrated so my expectations were high, but quickly slashed.

I did enjoy the plot and it was a quick read. The story begins as Lady Constance Morrow sneaks onboard a ship leaving England for the American Colonies, to say good-bye to her uncle, but finds herself kidnapped. Constance is not to worried once she arrives and lets them know who she is she will be safely returned home.

When she arrives she finds her self being sold to farmer Drew O’Connor, who needs a maid. Constance demands to be returned to England to her father, but Drew does not listen. Soon the people of the town learn she is leaving with Drew unmarried and demands he marries her, which he does and promises Constance he will not consummate the marriage. He sends Josh his brother to England to collaborate her story, and when he returns she can have the marriage annulled.

Drew soon learns that his maid now wife knows nothing about cooking or cleaning only that she can do some difficult math problems and sew. Somehow these two become attacked to each other, but I never figured out how this happened. Other reviews mention lust, well did not get that impression either.

Also, the brother Josh could have his own story I was more intrigued with him and his character. Josh mentioned the love of his life and he was planning on marrying her, but on his visit to England to find Constance’s family he found the love of his life in the arm’s of another man. If there was a book written with Josh I may consider giving the author another chance since this was her first novel.

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory

2008-05-14T09:24:00.006-04:00

This is my 2nd Philippa Gregory book, I read The Other Boleyn Girl first. I was looking forward to the story of Katherine of Aragon. My knowledge of the history during her reign is zero, but reading this book has inspired me to want to find out more about her parents and the historical facts during her reign.

I knew nothing about Katherine of Aragon the daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain, so I was excited the story began when she was ground. Her parents were constantly on crusade against the Moors. I soon learned this was the only exciting part of the entire book.

I was not impressed with any of the characters; Katherine was very self centered and arrogant I never felt anything for her and thought she got what she deserved. Henry VII was laughable his lust for his daughter-in-law was too much. Author I felt was thrown into the story but really never developed as a character for me, so I found it hard to digest this “love affair” they had before he died. The “death bed” promise to me to not fit in well.

After Author died Katherine was treated very badly not only by Henry VII and his mother, but her own family ignored her, not sure how much of this is fact or fiction. I wanted to stop reading the book how many more times did I have to read she was destined to be Queen of England, hence the word "Constant" in title, and insisted that she had to marry Henry. In the end she finally won and married Henry.

Finally married to Henry VIII, I was hoping the story would get more exciting would have more insight to her reign and learn more of Henry, again I was disappointed the story was slow the scenes seemed rushed, and before I know it her marriage to Henry was over. I was left going “What happened”.

I really wanted to enjoy this book, but I didn’t. It really has been searching out other writers of Katherine of Aragon learn what facts are known of her.

Historical Fiction Reading Challenge

2008-04-06T21:47:00.018-04:00

I found this GREAT reading Challenge and since Historical Fiction is my favorite I look forward to being a part of this Challenge. You must commit to reading 6 Historical Fiction novels in 6 months starting 4/1/08 and ending 10/1/08.

Please join me in this challenge and if you do post your books in my comments or your webiste, I would love to see what your reading list and visit your site. Reading, Writing and Ranting to join the Historical Reading Challenge.

I have listed the six I plan to read below, but they could change since I have many Historical Fiction in my TBR pile.

1.~~The Love Knot Elizabeth Chadwick~~
2 ~~Royal Harlot Susan Holloway Scott~~
3.~~The Constant Princess Philippa Gregory~~
4.~~Royal Harlot: A Novel of the Countess Castlemaine and King Charles II Susan Holloway Scott~~
5.~~A Bride Most Begrudging:Deeanne Gist~~
6.~~Cruel as the Grave Sharon Kay Penman~~

Happy Reading

2007-09-20T08:28:00.000-04:00

I have not posted any current books, but I hope to have the books I finished up within the next week.

I am a huge coffee drinker and Folgers is currently offering a sample visit their website and request your free sample today.

2007-08-12T23:21:00.003-04:00

This was a fun quick read, Fern Michael's is a first time author for me and I would read her again.

Olivia lives alone and work out of her home as a dog photographer. The richest dog in America, Cecil shows up to have his photo taken, his lawyer and caretaker Jeff Bannerman decides to leave him with her overnight.

Olivia who always believed her mother died when she was born gets the shock of her life when a lawyer tells her not only did her mom die less then two weeks ago, but her she is to inherit her estate worth millions. Her mother has written a letter asking her to do her favor and find two of her friends from college, so they can all make a wrong a right.

Olivia has no interest in accepting her inheritance or running her mother's mail order catalog business, she is left upset and unsure as to what to do. Her father lied to her for all of these years, her dead mother wants her to find two old friends that she committed a crime with over 40 years ago.

Olivia and Jeff become fast friends and helps her uncover the mystery surrounding her mothers crime and finding her friends. Although, I like both Olivia and Jeff I found no chemistry between the two to have any kind of relationship.

2 STARS

2007-08-09T08:58:00.002-04:00

Kat Martin is one of my favorite historical romance authors, so I had not qualms about purchasing a contemporary with her name.

The story begins when Allie's best friend is killed on a yacht, and she believes it is no accident. With the investigation going no where she decides to take matters into her own hands. She sneaks aboard another boat owned by the same person, and before she realizes what is going on the boat is heading out to sea. She overheard talk about a mysterious shipment that she believes is drugs and that must have been why her friend was murdered. Soon she is discovered by one of the three men, and comes face to face with Jake Dawson. Jake decides he wants her to himself so has her locked into his room.

Alli, who attempts escape is stopped dead in her tracks by the handsome Jake who she assumes will have his way with her. Jake's only interest is to keep her from the other two men. Allie is furious she is being held and again attempts escape but Jake again comes to her rescue.

Jake informs her that he wants to help her escape, but the other two men have their own plans, she needs to trust him. Soon they end up in the hot jungles of Mexico running for their lives.

The story starts of with a bang, the middle is to long and Allie gets on my nerves. The last few chapters the story picks back up and ends nicely.

I give this STARS

2007-08-06T10:06:00.002-04:00

This story starts with Jordan Donovan "JD" Harris who worked as a special force medic. On Christmas Eve as the President of the United States is coming to visit the wounded. Before JD can blink in a moment everything for him changes, when he puts his life on the line for the President. Overnight JD becomes a true American Hero and his life is no longer his own.

The media exploits him in every light from his saddened childhood with his reformed alcoholic mother who has a relapse due to the meida. Also, with his good looks women are calling 911 and committing stupid acts to be saved by him, that actually lands one woman in the hospital on her death bed.

JD cannot take this anymore, so his friend Sam has a cottage up on the lake that is remote and out of the way so JD turns to solitude for the summer hoping the media will lose interest in him.

Kate Livingston single mother to nine year old Aaron has recently been fired from her job as a fashion editor and with school out for the summer heads to her family vacation cottage to escape life herself.

I was actually enjoyed the story until these two meet up immediately there is no chemistry between Kate and JD, the interactions with Aaron are more real. The book is to long and

spends to much time on everyday happenings that don't mean anything to me.

This is my first contemporary by her, but I will give her others a try.

My Rating Stars

2007-08-03T16:22:00.002-04:00

This book reminds me of a scrapebook. The story is told only by letters, diary/journal entries, documents, and later on e-mails.
You follow the two best friends Jillian and Lesley from the day are born all the way up until 2002.

You will experience everything 2 best friends experience from their first date, birth of their own children and even their parents/spouses death. Also the historical events from the civil rights movement to the 9/11 tragedy, and their feelings on the issues.

From the first page to the last page I enjoyed it, I felt as I was their friend too. I was reading this book every chance I got.

2007-08-01T20:22:00.000-04:00

I am taking a break from reading Historicals and will attempt some contemporary titles, I have several sitting in my TBR pile that I keep pushing to the end of my shelf.

I want be at the beach reading these, but thinking of the blue water, white sand and palm trees want be hard with this gorgeous photo.

2007-08-01T19:40:00.001-04:00

First time author for me, look forward to reading her other novels.

This was a wonderful story of love and sacrifice. Lady Sarah is in love with Justin Tolbert. Circumstances separate them, Justin is off to war and Lady Sarah goes after her sister Amelia.

Lady Sarah watches her sister die giving birth to an illegitimate son, Andrew. The shame her sister felt at having a child out of wedlock was so great that on her deathbed she made Sarah promise to never reveal the secret of Andrew's birth to anyone.

Sarah returns home with the baby, and her promise to her sister will cost her dearly. Sarah writes to Justin to call of their engagement. Justin finally returns home after four years fighting in the war not only has he lost his fiancee, but his family estate and is debt and he lost the lower part of his leg.

Soon Justin meets up with Drew who is being tormented by other boys. Drew is quickly drawn to Justin and begins to think of him as a hero. Justin soon learns the reason why Sarah sent him the letter and is shocked that she is not married.

Sarah hates that she cannot be honest about Drew's mother, but she will not break her promise to her dear sister. She finally does offer to help Justin with the debt he inherited from his father and brother, but with a catch they must marry so he will become a role model for Drew.

I feel for Sarah and could not put the book down, I wanted her to tell Justin the truth, but I also admired her loyalty to protect her sisters memory.

I give this book: STARS

Scandal in Spring

2007-07-26T15:41:00.001-04:00

This is the last story in the wallflower series. Daisy the youngest wallflower, and sister to Lillian, still has not had an offer in marriage. Her father gives her an ultimatum, if she does not find a husband within 2 months then she will marry an American Matthew Swift who works for her father's soap company.

Matthew is secretly in love with Daisy and has been for years and never dreamed he would have a chance with her, an American Heiress. Not only does he harbour a secret love for Daisy, but he has other secrets.

Daisy is totally caught off guard by Matthew her last memories of him were skinny, and not all attractive so when she encouters him by the wishing well she is overwhemled by his handsome looks. She is also torn by the fact her sister is not in agreement with the match.

Matthew's secrets soon catch up with him, will they be the end of him and Daisy, does she remain a wallfower. Don't miss reading the last book in the series.

2007-07-25T16:15:00.002-04:00

This series only gets better and better with every book, I could not put this book down. The story of Evie and St Vincent was breathtaking.

Evie, who was raised by her dead mother’s family, will do anything to receive sanctuary and protection from their abuse and to visit her dying father, a notorious gaming club owner.

The hardened rake St. Vincent who was so desperate to marry for money that he kidnapped Evie’s wallflower friend Lillian in It Happened one Autumn, and failed. So why would Evie go to him? Well sometimes desperate situations, cause for desperate measures.

Evie goes to and ask St Vincent to marry her pronto, she pleads with him that she wants so badly to see her father but each time she attempts to escape to see him they bring her back and beat her. St Vincent who is dire need of funds agrees to the marriage, because when her father dies Evie will be a wealthy woman.

Well they say opposite’s attract and in this relationship they do more then that. Evie wants nothing further to do with St. Vincent after their wedding night she is afraid she will in fall and love with him and he will break her heart, but he does not want to let her go so easy. He escorts her to her fathers gaming club and realizes since his illness the club has been loosing money, so he quickly takes over and makes changes, and he begins to take more notice of Evie and begins to genuinely care for her. He decides he wants them to behave as husband and wife, well Evie is very reluctant to this and decides she will on one condition, and that is that he can remain
From having relations with other females and become monogamous.

Can St Vincent remain faithful to Evie? Who will be the first to break their deal? You will have to read and find out, if Evie is able to tame this rakish man into a loving faithful husband.

I give this book STARS

2007-07-22T21:59:00.002-04:00

Today was an awesome day to finish up this book mid July here but could be mistaken as an early autumn as nice as the weather was.

The book was also awesome. This is the 2nd book in the Wallflower Series and the story of Lord Westcliff (Marcus) and Lillian.

Lillian and her sister Daisy were born in America, and their mother wants them to both marry aristocrats. Lillian who does not think it possible visits a apothecary and he offers her an aphrodisiac, of course she does not believe in such things, until....... she is kissed unexpectedly by Lord Westcliff then she believes, but is it the aphrodisiac or is it love?

These two are very headstrong and neither want to believe they could be falling in love, so they deny their attraction to each other and their friends. The plot moves along quickly with Marcus believing Lillian is all wrong for him, while she is busy spending her time with the scandalous Lord St. Vincent. Marcus does not approve of the pair, regardless Lillian proceeds to pursue him as a possible husband.

Soon Lord Westcliff's mother The Countess learns that Marcus plans to ask for Lillian's hand in marriage. The Countess will not stand for the union. Lord St. Vincent soon becomes a pawn to stop the marriage from happening.

I enjoyed this book more then the first book in the series. Both Marcus and Lillian are enjoyable characters who keep you reading to see what happens next.

3 STARS

2007-07-17T13:27:00.000-04:00

New Website:

I just joined Shelfari to connect with other book lovers. Come see the books I love and see if we have any in common. Then pick my next book so I can keep on reading.

Add me to your friend list: ancestorsearch

Click below to join my group of friends on Shelfari!
http://www.shelfari.com/

Shelfari is a free site that lets you share book ratings and reviews with friends and meet people who have similar tastes in books. It also lets you build an online bookshelf, join book clubs, and get good book recommendations from friends. You should check it out.

2007-07-16T16:32:00.000-04:00

Currently reading It Happened one Autumn:

2nd book in the Wallflower Series

It Happened One Autumn is the story of Lillian Bowman, a bold and headstrong American heiress, and Marcus, Lord Westcliff, the most eligible peer in England. But even though Lillian is hunting for a husband, Marcus is the last man she would ever consider marrying.

Wallflower Series

2007-07-16T16:08:00.001-04:00

This is the first book in the Wallflower Series.

Four young girls unite together to become the Wallflowers and organize a husband hunt.

First on the list is Annabelle Peyton she is the oldest the wallflowers unite to help her wed first. Anna as she is called will do anything to help her family since her father's death the family finances are almost gone. To keep her brother in school she will do most anything to find a husband.

Annabell is beautiful, but has no dowry. She has her sights on an eligible bachelor who she plans to snag in a trap with the help of the wallflowers. Things are going as planned until an unfortunate accident occurs. Her plans to capture her future husband are put on hold, but it seems someone is actually out to capture her.

My Review: Three Stars ***

I really enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters, but thought lacking in the passion and romance department. Somedays it was hard to pick up the book to read, I just wanted it to end.

I enjoyed the hero Simon very much but wish she developed him more, I found Annabell more dull and not interesting at all. There was no chemistry between the two, well not from Annabell. Simon was alluring and a mystery.

The secondary characters are interesting I believe she spent some time developing some of the wallflowers and could have spent more time on the hero and heroine; so I am looking forward to following their stories in the remainder of the series.

2007-07-16T10:31:00.001-04:00

I love to read historical romance and fiction. I will be posting what I am currently reading and reviewing books as I finish them.

I will be doing reviews of some of my past books as well.