by Mary Balogh.
This is actually a second book, the first being One Night to Love but I couldnt' get it on the Kindle so I have not yet read it. This book however follows Kit Butler who I know only as having broken Frey Bedwyn's heart and I wanted to read this one before her story.
He gets into a fake engagement with Lauren from book 1 of the series (which I have not yet read) to get out of an engagement with Freyja. They of course fall in love and end up really getting married. This one was a good one to read, I got to know a lot of characters that were referenced in the later books I read. It was also good that I read this before the Freyja book which I started up next.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Simply Magic (Simply series book 3)
by Mary Balogh.
Book three is the story of Peter and Susanna. They meet when Susanna is staying with Francis from book one and have 2 weeks of friendship which buds into a small romance with no foreseeable future. They meet again later in Bath and eventually Peter is able to convince Susanna to marry him.
I'm interested to see what the 4th will bring, Claudia's story should be very interesting.
Book three is the story of Peter and Susanna. They meet when Susanna is staying with Francis from book one and have 2 weeks of friendship which buds into a small romance with no foreseeable future. They meet again later in Bath and eventually Peter is able to convince Susanna to marry him.
I'm interested to see what the 4th will bring, Claudia's story should be very interesting.
Slightly Wicked (Slightly series book 2)
by Mary Balogh.
This is the story of Rannulf and Judith. They meet on the road and have a whirlwind romance of 2 nights, both pretending to be someone else. Later when they meet up under more normal circumstances it is to find out that they are to be neighbors for a while and he is to be courting her cousin.
Quite a compelling story with lots of troubles and twists but we get to meet the Bedwyn's a bit more at the end, finally seeing more of the sisters, particularly Freyja who's story starts right up at the end of this one. Again i couldn't put this book down at all!
This is the story of Rannulf and Judith. They meet on the road and have a whirlwind romance of 2 nights, both pretending to be someone else. Later when they meet up under more normal circumstances it is to find out that they are to be neighbors for a while and he is to be courting her cousin.
Quite a compelling story with lots of troubles and twists but we get to meet the Bedwyn's a bit more at the end, finally seeing more of the sisters, particularly Freyja who's story starts right up at the end of this one. Again i couldn't put this book down at all!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Slightly Married (Slightly book 1)
by Mary Balogh.
This is the first in a series that follows the Bedwyn family. This book covers the story of Aidan and Eve. Aidan marries Eve to save her with the idea that it would be a marriage of convenience and they'd never see each other again. Of course this doesn't work out as planned :) We are introduced to most of the Bedwyn family in this book and it ends with one brother Rannulf coming and then leaving again after meeting Eve. That leads directly into Rannulf's story - the second book.
I am devouring these, I really can't put them down at all!
This is the first in a series that follows the Bedwyn family. This book covers the story of Aidan and Eve. Aidan marries Eve to save her with the idea that it would be a marriage of convenience and they'd never see each other again. Of course this doesn't work out as planned :) We are introduced to most of the Bedwyn family in this book and it ends with one brother Rannulf coming and then leaving again after meeting Eve. That leads directly into Rannulf's story - the second book.
I am devouring these, I really can't put them down at all!
Simply Love (Simply series book 2)
by Mary Balogh.
This is the second in the simply series, it follows Anne's story, an unwed mother as she meets Sydnam who was wounded during the war and holds scars inside and outside that make it hard for him to see himself capable of having a real relationship.
This story is different than the first in that instead of multiple chance encounters, they get to meet, and spend a month together becoming good friends. They are then thrown together of their own volition and have to figure out how to become whole again (both have wounds from the past to deal with). It's a touching book and characters from previous books are brought back.
This one is the one that made me realize there was a whole series of books that followed the Bedwyn's that I missed so before continuing I need to go read those! Also Sydnam's brother Kit has his own story as well that came before this one.
This is the second in the simply series, it follows Anne's story, an unwed mother as she meets Sydnam who was wounded during the war and holds scars inside and outside that make it hard for him to see himself capable of having a real relationship.
This story is different than the first in that instead of multiple chance encounters, they get to meet, and spend a month together becoming good friends. They are then thrown together of their own volition and have to figure out how to become whole again (both have wounds from the past to deal with). It's a touching book and characters from previous books are brought back.
This one is the one that made me realize there was a whole series of books that followed the Bedwyn's that I missed so before continuing I need to go read those! Also Sydnam's brother Kit has his own story as well that came before this one.
First Drop of Crimson (Night Huntress World book 1)
by Jeanine Frost.
This is a spin off of her Night Huntress series. Instead of following Cat and Bones (although that series will continue and they are in these books a bit), they follow side characters we have met along the way.
One thing to note and I was QUITE disappointed about this ... do NOT read this until after reading book 5 of Night Huntress (which is not out yet!) - This Side of the Grave. It appears that this book takes place after that one and a major plot development is given away (boo!).
Anyhow, as a book on it's own this one was great! It follows Spade who is friends with Bones/Crispin and you also get to know their other mutual friend Ian a bit better. I assume Ian will be a future book.
Spade gets involved helping Cat's friend Denise with some Demon issues. She has PTSD issues when around vampires from her time spent with the vampires in an earlier book when her husband was killed - this at least was in a book I had read. Spade has relationship with human issues so there are some barriers to them being together, none the less it is intriguing and the author is quite good at keeping the story moving forward.
I'm not as excited about the next but that might be because I dont' know the characters too well that star in that one.
This is a spin off of her Night Huntress series. Instead of following Cat and Bones (although that series will continue and they are in these books a bit), they follow side characters we have met along the way.
One thing to note and I was QUITE disappointed about this ... do NOT read this until after reading book 5 of Night Huntress (which is not out yet!) - This Side of the Grave. It appears that this book takes place after that one and a major plot development is given away (boo!).
Anyhow, as a book on it's own this one was great! It follows Spade who is friends with Bones/Crispin and you also get to know their other mutual friend Ian a bit better. I assume Ian will be a future book.
Spade gets involved helping Cat's friend Denise with some Demon issues. She has PTSD issues when around vampires from her time spent with the vampires in an earlier book when her husband was killed - this at least was in a book I had read. Spade has relationship with human issues so there are some barriers to them being together, none the less it is intriguing and the author is quite good at keeping the story moving forward.
I'm not as excited about the next but that might be because I dont' know the characters too well that star in that one.
Belly Laughs
by Jenny McCarthy.
While I am not pregnant, I have friends that are and this book was recommended as being pretty light hearted but informative and funny. It was a quick 2 night read and I really was laughing quite a bit. It's easy to laugh when it's not you going through it that's for sure. I do recommend this to those that are pregnant or are trying, she doesn't really give advice but she does give you a warning about what's to come and a feeling that you are not alone for the tough stuff. Plus it's a quick read which is always welcome when you're busy!
While I am not pregnant, I have friends that are and this book was recommended as being pretty light hearted but informative and funny. It was a quick 2 night read and I really was laughing quite a bit. It's easy to laugh when it's not you going through it that's for sure. I do recommend this to those that are pregnant or are trying, she doesn't really give advice but she does give you a warning about what's to come and a feeling that you are not alone for the tough stuff. Plus it's a quick read which is always welcome when you're busy!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Simply Unforgettable (Simply book 1)
by Mary Balogh.
I didn't realize that there was a series (Slightly) that came before this one. Although this first book doesn't really tie in closely with that series, the second one really did.
This first one follows a couple as they meet unexpectedly during a snow storm, then again later on at a social event. Neither of them really wanted a relationship for different reasons but in the end all works out of course.
This book also sets up the series where 4 women who work/live at Miss Martin's school will each find love in their own time.
I didn't realize that there was a series (Slightly) that came before this one. Although this first book doesn't really tie in closely with that series, the second one really did.
This first one follows a couple as they meet unexpectedly during a snow storm, then again later on at a social event. Neither of them really wanted a relationship for different reasons but in the end all works out of course.
This book also sets up the series where 4 women who work/live at Miss Martin's school will each find love in their own time.
A Secret Affair (Huxtables book 5)
by Mary Balogh.
The final Huxtable book follows Constantine so we finally get to find out his secrets. He starts an affair with the recently widowed Duchess of Dunbarton. We get to see all the other Huxtables in this one and Constantine and his cousin finally work things out and are friends again. It was a good ending to a series with good characters.
The final Huxtable book follows Constantine so we finally get to find out his secrets. He starts an affair with the recently widowed Duchess of Dunbarton. We get to see all the other Huxtables in this one and Constantine and his cousin finally work things out and are friends again. It was a good ending to a series with good characters.
Sinful in Satin (Rarest Blooms book 3)
by Madeline Hunter.
I didn't think this one had as much political information and history of the time as the others but followed a character we met briefly in book one (Jonathan) as he investigates Celia's mother's prior clientèle after her death. Celia is trying hard not to follow in her mothers footsteps and still has a relationship with the women from the first 2 books.
The fourth book will follow Daphne and should be interested. It's hard to picture her as anything except a motherly figure even though she is supposedly only 27 or so.
I didn't think this one had as much political information and history of the time as the others but followed a character we met briefly in book one (Jonathan) as he investigates Celia's mother's prior clientèle after her death. Celia is trying hard not to follow in her mothers footsteps and still has a relationship with the women from the first 2 books.
The fourth book will follow Daphne and should be interested. It's hard to picture her as anything except a motherly figure even though she is supposedly only 27 or so.
Dark Angel (Dark book 1)
by Mary Balogh.
I read this book in one night. It was published along with Lord Carew's Bride in the same book because they follow 2 women who are cousins and have a come out season together. In book one, they are both hurt by one man but the older ends up marrying to save herself from scandal and of course falling in love.
I'm looking forward to the second book quite a bit now.
I read this book in one night. It was published along with Lord Carew's Bride in the same book because they follow 2 women who are cousins and have a come out season together. In book one, they are both hurt by one man but the older ends up marrying to save herself from scandal and of course falling in love.
I'm looking forward to the second book quite a bit now.
A Precious Jewel (ideal book 2)
by Mary Balogh.
This book follows the love story of Gerald and his Mistress, we met Gerald and knew about his relationship in book one but this book goes back to when he first met her and then set her up to be his mistress. I enjoyed this one quite a bit.
This book follows the love story of Gerald and his Mistress, we met Gerald and knew about his relationship in book one but this book goes back to when he first met her and then set her up to be his mistress. I enjoyed this one quite a bit.
The Ideal Wife (ideal book 1)
by Mary Balogh.
The Ideal Wife follows Miles as he decides he must marry a very discrete, plain woman and Abigail shows up on his steps. They marry quickly and then slowly fall in love, during which time Abigail slowly reveals secrets, each one worrying her. This book had a couple of extra characters that you knew would follow up with more stories (hence the second book).
The Ideal Wife follows Miles as he decides he must marry a very discrete, plain woman and Abigail shows up on his steps. They marry quickly and then slowly fall in love, during which time Abigail slowly reveals secrets, each one worrying her. This book had a couple of extra characters that you knew would follow up with more stories (hence the second book).
The Secret Pearl
by Mary Balogh.
A standalone book, this one follows a love story that twists and turns and doesn't quite seem like it will end happily. It doesn't start out promising, with the Duke meeting Fleur as a common street walker and then finding out she was actually an innocent. Feeling guilty, he arranges for her to become governess to his daughter and live with his wife in the country (a little Jane Eyre there for you anyone?). The characters are pretty deep though and the story intriguing so it kept me interested and I just held out hope that all would end well. All in all it was enjoyable!
A standalone book, this one follows a love story that twists and turns and doesn't quite seem like it will end happily. It doesn't start out promising, with the Duke meeting Fleur as a common street walker and then finding out she was actually an innocent. Feeling guilty, he arranges for her to become governess to his daughter and live with his wife in the country (a little Jane Eyre there for you anyone?). The characters are pretty deep though and the story intriguing so it kept me interested and I just held out hope that all would end well. All in all it was enjoyable!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
204 Rosewood Lane (Cedar Cove book 2)
by Debbie Macomber.
The second book follows more from Grace's point of view, solving the mystery of her husband Dan's disappearance and some new budding romances. It still deals with a lot of divorce though and I'm not enjoying this series because of that. I think this will be my last, the characters are interesting but I need a bit more happy endings in my books :)
The second book follows more from Grace's point of view, solving the mystery of her husband Dan's disappearance and some new budding romances. It still deals with a lot of divorce though and I'm not enjoying this series because of that. I think this will be my last, the characters are interesting but I need a bit more happy endings in my books :)
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
16 Lighthouse Road (Cedar Cove book 1)
by Debbie Macomber.
A new author and I guess series. I found this on Audible a while back and finally read it. I did like it a good bit. It was sad at times and lots of divorce, unhappy family stuff going on that was hard to swallow as a light read but otherwise it was interesting. It follows the story of a number of people who live in Cedar Cove. Mostly romantic stories but not all.
I didn't realize it was a series and I'll have to check out the next in the series and see if it's characters I now know or not. All in all I would recommend this, not as the lightest of reads but nothing like a Jodi Piccoult either.
A new author and I guess series. I found this on Audible a while back and finally read it. I did like it a good bit. It was sad at times and lots of divorce, unhappy family stuff going on that was hard to swallow as a light read but otherwise it was interesting. It follows the story of a number of people who live in Cedar Cove. Mostly romantic stories but not all.
I didn't realize it was a series and I'll have to check out the next in the series and see if it's characters I now know or not. All in all I would recommend this, not as the lightest of reads but nothing like a Jodi Piccoult either.
Scandal in Spring (Wallflower book 4)
by Lisa Kleypas.
The fourth and final in the series, this one follows Daisy Bowman as her father tries to arrange a marriage for her. It was much more slow going for me, not quite as interesting as the others but still good. A little action at the end kept it interesting and it rounded out the series nicely.
Next up is Midnight Crystal to finish that trilogy and then maybe some Mary Balogh's I have piled up by my bed!
The fourth and final in the series, this one follows Daisy Bowman as her father tries to arrange a marriage for her. It was much more slow going for me, not quite as interesting as the others but still good. A little action at the end kept it interesting and it rounded out the series nicely.
Next up is Midnight Crystal to finish that trilogy and then maybe some Mary Balogh's I have piled up by my bed!
The Devil in Winter (wallflower book 3)
by Lisa Kleypas.
This one picked off right where the second ended and followed Evie as she proposes marriage to St. Vincent to escape her family. It was quite interesting because it explains the history of Rohan more clearly and I read those Kleypas books much earlier (Hathaway?). I may have to reread the first in that series now.
I liked the danger in this one and Evie who was so shy really stood her ground. It was a good book.
This one picked off right where the second ended and followed Evie as she proposes marriage to St. Vincent to escape her family. It was quite interesting because it explains the history of Rohan more clearly and I read those Kleypas books much earlier (Hathaway?). I may have to reread the first in that series now.
I liked the danger in this one and Evie who was so shy really stood her ground. It was a good book.
It Happened One Autumn (wallflowers book 2)
by Lisa Kleypas.
The second book covered the story of Lillian Bowman and Lord Westcliff. I found it very intriguing and while predictable, it was fun. A great followup as the 4 friends stay strong through the series and we get to see Annabelle even though she's married now.
This may have been my favorite of the series, not quite sure but it was a treat to read. Of course it ended with a cliffhanger so I had to start the third right away!
The second book covered the story of Lillian Bowman and Lord Westcliff. I found it very intriguing and while predictable, it was fun. A great followup as the 4 friends stay strong through the series and we get to see Annabelle even though she's married now.
This may have been my favorite of the series, not quite sure but it was a treat to read. Of course it ended with a cliffhanger so I had to start the third right away!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Burning Lamp (Dreamlight Trilogy book 2)
by Amanda Quick (Jayne Ann Krentz).
And 10 months later I finally purchase the second book (in audio format because i don't like hardcovers and the kindle never dropped below 10dollars) but this book technically comes before the first one.
Well it wasn't my favorite - which is a bummer because I love Amanda Quick books generally. I thought the first half lacked character development, too much of it was giving this history of the Jones family and the Winters family so you didn't get to know the characters well. The romance just sort of happened with no build up. The second half of the book was much better, containing some mystery and danger and some characters from previous books which was nice.
Part of my problem may have been the reader of the audiobook, she was breathless/throaty and it was hard to feel like the characters were normal people because of it. So hard to relate in general and definitely not my favorite. Arcane started out as my favorite of JAK's books but I think i like her standalone AQ books best now because she doesn't have to waste time explaining the history of the Arcane Society.
I am really looking forward to the midnight crystal however (the third in this series) which is a jayne castle!
And 10 months later I finally purchase the second book (in audio format because i don't like hardcovers and the kindle never dropped below 10dollars) but this book technically comes before the first one.
Well it wasn't my favorite - which is a bummer because I love Amanda Quick books generally. I thought the first half lacked character development, too much of it was giving this history of the Jones family and the Winters family so you didn't get to know the characters well. The romance just sort of happened with no build up. The second half of the book was much better, containing some mystery and danger and some characters from previous books which was nice.
Part of my problem may have been the reader of the audiobook, she was breathless/throaty and it was hard to feel like the characters were normal people because of it. So hard to relate in general and definitely not my favorite. Arcane started out as my favorite of JAK's books but I think i like her standalone AQ books best now because she doesn't have to waste time explaining the history of the Arcane Society.
I am really looking forward to the midnight crystal however (the third in this series) which is a jayne castle!
Secrets of a Summer Night (Wallflower book 1)
by Lisa Kleypas.
This series is about 4 wallflowers who are looking for marriage and become friends and help each other pursue future husbands. The first deals with Anabelle who is attracting to a man Simon of lower birth but wants to marry a peer. Surprise - she ends up marrying Simon :) It was an enjoyable read and the friendship between the girls is great.
I'm now torn between reading the next and reading the new book that just came out by my favorite author... ahh decisions!
This series is about 4 wallflowers who are looking for marriage and become friends and help each other pursue future husbands. The first deals with Anabelle who is attracting to a man Simon of lower birth but wants to marry a peer. Surprise - she ends up marrying Simon :) It was an enjoyable read and the friendship between the girls is great.
I'm now torn between reading the next and reading the new book that just came out by my favorite author... ahh decisions!
The Sins of Lord Easterbrook (easterbrook book 4)
by Madeline Hunter.
And the fourth and final book in the series. Finally it's Easterbrook's turn and we learn something of his travels and a woman he fell in love with on those travels who reappears in his life. There is a lot of political stuff going on in this one, dealing with the opium trade which was very interesting. This one was interesting because until the last few pages she was set against staying and was planning on leaving and that this was nothing but an affair... interesting. It was nice to follow the characters from the previous books and how they are all still doing. I love series' because of that.
And the fourth and final book in the series. Finally it's Easterbrook's turn and we learn something of his travels and a woman he fell in love with on those travels who reappears in his life. There is a lot of political stuff going on in this one, dealing with the opium trade which was very interesting. This one was interesting because until the last few pages she was set against staying and was planning on leaving and that this was nothing but an affair... interesting. It was nice to follow the characters from the previous books and how they are all still doing. I love series' because of that.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
House Rules
by Jodi Piccoult.
This book is about a family, a single Mother Ella who has two sons Jacob and Theo. Jacob has Aspergers and is obsessed with crime scene investigation. When his social skills tutor ends up dead and missing and eventually found he gets tried for her murder.
Like all of her books this one is difficult to read, it's hard to read the truth when you don't want it to be that way. You also know a twist might be coming so you can't settle and relax, there are not always happy endings in real life. I can't read a lot of her books in order but once in a while I give them a try and then go back to my lighter reading.
This one didn't meet expectation, I learned a lot about Autism, specifically Aspergers but the mystery was disappointing and the ending even more so (and not for the reason I was thinking). I won't give more than that away because I'm glad I read it but don't think you'll feel totally contented in the end.
This book is about a family, a single Mother Ella who has two sons Jacob and Theo. Jacob has Aspergers and is obsessed with crime scene investigation. When his social skills tutor ends up dead and missing and eventually found he gets tried for her murder.
Like all of her books this one is difficult to read, it's hard to read the truth when you don't want it to be that way. You also know a twist might be coming so you can't settle and relax, there are not always happy endings in real life. I can't read a lot of her books in order but once in a while I give them a try and then go back to my lighter reading.
This one didn't meet expectation, I learned a lot about Autism, specifically Aspergers but the mystery was disappointing and the ending even more so (and not for the reason I was thinking). I won't give more than that away because I'm glad I read it but don't think you'll feel totally contented in the end.
Secrets of Surrender (Easterbrook book 3)
by Madeline Hunter.
This book follows Rose who was the cousin to Alexia from book 1. She knows the truth about her brother finally but still can't take handouts from Hayden whom she's insulted. She gets herself in trouble and Kyle helps out - one of the people that her brother hurt financially. He proposes marriage to help her out of scandal and they try to build a life together even though he was not highly born. A lot of hurdles for that relationship.
This book follows Rose who was the cousin to Alexia from book 1. She knows the truth about her brother finally but still can't take handouts from Hayden whom she's insulted. She gets herself in trouble and Kyle helps out - one of the people that her brother hurt financially. He proposes marriage to help her out of scandal and they try to build a life together even though he was not highly born. A lot of hurdles for that relationship.
Lessons of Desire (Easterbrook book 2)
by Madeline Hunter.
This book follows Easterbrook's younger brother Elliot as he tries to help the family escape from scandal. He ends up falling for Phaedra while touring with her through the continent (they even marry to escape trouble thinking it won't last). Phaedra is against marriage on principal and it looks troublesome for the two for a while.
It was nice to see some of the continent instead of just England and Phaedra's views are very odd for Victorian times but very comforting for current times.
This book follows Easterbrook's younger brother Elliot as he tries to help the family escape from scandal. He ends up falling for Phaedra while touring with her through the continent (they even marry to escape trouble thinking it won't last). Phaedra is against marriage on principal and it looks troublesome for the two for a while.
It was nice to see some of the continent instead of just England and Phaedra's views are very odd for Victorian times but very comforting for current times.
Rules of Seduction (Easterbrook book 1)
by Madeline Hunter.
This book follows one of the brothers of Easterbrook - Hayden as he strives to help the family of a friend of his, then he falls for the cousin of that family. Unfortunately the family thinks he destroyed them when in reality he was helping to keep the brother from being brought up on charges. Eventually the truth comes out a little bit and he's happy in a new marriage.
Back to the Victorian age - what a great past time.
This book follows one of the brothers of Easterbrook - Hayden as he strives to help the family of a friend of his, then he falls for the cousin of that family. Unfortunately the family thinks he destroyed them when in reality he was helping to keep the brother from being brought up on charges. Eventually the truth comes out a little bit and he's happy in a new marriage.
Back to the Victorian age - what a great past time.
Medieval Series by Madeline Hunter
I read this whole series this summer - unfortunately i read them in published order instead of chronologically but I still was able to make the connections between the characters and politics of the time.
The books in chronological order are:
By Possession (year 1326 - Addis is main character)
By Design (year 1328 - Rys is main character)
Stealing Heaven (year 1341 - Marcus is main character)
By Arrangement (year 1346 - David is main character)
The Protector (year 1348-49 - Morvan is main character and covers plague a bit)
Lord of a Thousand Nights (year 1350 - Ian is main character)
This series was very interesting from a political/historical point of view, I learned a lot about this time period. Unfortunately during this time period woman had very few rights and it made the relationships hard to relate to. I still enjoyed them quite a bit however and I loved how they all intertwined.
Spoiler Alert!!!!
***************************8
Addis marries his serf Moira but before they marry she befriends Rys. Rys then marries a noble woman Joan who's young brother Marcus is friends with David. Addis takes Marcus under his wing to teach him how to be the lord he was born to be. Marcus then falls for Nesta who has no other ties in the series.
David is favored by the king with a noble wife Christiana who's brother Morvan then falls for Anna in Breton. Anna in England has a tiny trist with Ian who is a knight working for Morvan in the last book and finally falls for Lady Reyna.
Very interleaved!
The books in chronological order are:
By Possession (year 1326 - Addis is main character)
By Design (year 1328 - Rys is main character)
Stealing Heaven (year 1341 - Marcus is main character)
By Arrangement (year 1346 - David is main character)
The Protector (year 1348-49 - Morvan is main character and covers plague a bit)
Lord of a Thousand Nights (year 1350 - Ian is main character)
This series was very interesting from a political/historical point of view, I learned a lot about this time period. Unfortunately during this time period woman had very few rights and it made the relationships hard to relate to. I still enjoyed them quite a bit however and I loved how they all intertwined.
Spoiler Alert!!!!
***************************8
Addis marries his serf Moira but before they marry she befriends Rys. Rys then marries a noble woman Joan who's young brother Marcus is friends with David. Addis takes Marcus under his wing to teach him how to be the lord he was born to be. Marcus then falls for Nesta who has no other ties in the series.
David is favored by the king with a noble wife Christiana who's brother Morvan then falls for Anna in Breton. Anna in England has a tiny trist with Ian who is a knight working for Morvan in the last book and finally falls for Lady Reyna.
Very interleaved!
Anne's House of Dreams (Anne book 5)
by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
This book follows Anne as she and Gilbert move so he can set up a practice. Her life as a wife and eventually starting on the life of a mother. More new friends, and a darker side of life are exposed to Anne.
I missed Windy Poplars which covers the 3 years when Anne is just engaged - they didn't have it in Audiobook form so I'll have to read it on my kindle some time.
This book follows Anne as she and Gilbert move so he can set up a practice. Her life as a wife and eventually starting on the life of a mother. More new friends, and a darker side of life are exposed to Anne.
I missed Windy Poplars which covers the 3 years when Anne is just engaged - they didn't have it in Audiobook form so I'll have to read it on my kindle some time.
Anne of the Island (Anne book 3)
by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
This book follows Anne's life through college, making new friends, falling in love and eventually really falling in love. It was one of my favorite of these books.
This book follows Anne's life through college, making new friends, falling in love and eventually really falling in love. It was one of my favorite of these books.
Love in the Afternoon (Hathaways book 5)
by Lisa Kleypas.
This may have been my favorite of the books. I loved the characters all around. It was a while ago since I read it though so I don't have details.
This may have been my favorite of the books. I loved the characters all around. It was a while ago since I read it though so I don't have details.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Married by Morning (Hathaways book 4)
by Lisa Kleypas.
And another Lisa Kleypas. Mom bought book 4 and 5 in the Hathaways series and I was just between books when I got them so I jumped right in. The 4th book follows the brother and typical Victorian, he must marry quickly to keep his land/house. He's always had a tempestuous relationship with his sister's companion but obviously for a reason. She holds out for quite a long time (not marrying him) but they do fall in love. She has quite a history too which interferes a little and keeps it interesting. I can't wait for the next book because it follows Beatrix who is very much loved.
And another Lisa Kleypas. Mom bought book 4 and 5 in the Hathaways series and I was just between books when I got them so I jumped right in. The 4th book follows the brother and typical Victorian, he must marry quickly to keep his land/house. He's always had a tempestuous relationship with his sister's companion but obviously for a reason. She holds out for quite a long time (not marrying him) but they do fall in love. She has quite a history too which interferes a little and keeps it interesting. I can't wait for the next book because it follows Beatrix who is very much loved.
Smooth Talking Stranger (Travis family book 3)
by Lisa Kleypas
When i started reading this I didn't realize it was a trilogy but as I was meeting other "couples" in the book I started to wonder and sure enough it's the third book :) Funny - I even had the first book on my ipod. So I'll finish this and then read the first and second.
This book is quite enjoyable. The main character gets saddled with her sister's illegitimate child that she knew nothing about while her sister disappears. She meets a man she thinks is the father, turns out he's not but he ends up helping her out and they become friends and then more. I really enjoyed the dynamic with her raising her sister's child, knowing she has to give him back soon but falling in love with him (the baby).
I look forward to reading the first two now :)
When i started reading this I didn't realize it was a trilogy but as I was meeting other "couples" in the book I started to wonder and sure enough it's the third book :) Funny - I even had the first book on my ipod. So I'll finish this and then read the first and second.
This book is quite enjoyable. The main character gets saddled with her sister's illegitimate child that she knew nothing about while her sister disappears. She meets a man she thinks is the father, turns out he's not but he ends up helping her out and they become friends and then more. I really enjoyed the dynamic with her raising her sister's child, knowing she has to give him back soon but falling in love with him (the baby).
I look forward to reading the first two now :)
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Provocative in Pearls (Rarest blooms book 2)
by Madeline Hunter.
The second follows the story of a runaway bride (another of the rarest blooms). Her husband accidentally comes upon her (he's good friends with Sebastian from the first book). She agrees to go with him but wants an annulment and he wants no such thing so he needs to convince her otherwise. It's not as good as the first but again, more history and details about the time period which caught my interest for sure.
The book is enjoyable but I still liked the first better. I'm really looking forward to the third that comes out in the fall!
The second follows the story of a runaway bride (another of the rarest blooms). Her husband accidentally comes upon her (he's good friends with Sebastian from the first book). She agrees to go with him but wants an annulment and he wants no such thing so he needs to convince her otherwise. It's not as good as the first but again, more history and details about the time period which caught my interest for sure.
The book is enjoyable but I still liked the first better. I'm really looking forward to the third that comes out in the fall!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sea Glass (Glass Series book 2)
by Maria V. Snyder.
This is the second in the Opal Glass Series which i can say for sure is definitely not as good as the Study series. Yes the characters from the Study series still appear here and there but ugg!
It does improve and I have to say I really liked the end of the book but the first half I was really reconsidering liking this new series :) There are some new characters in this book which are very similar to some old characters but she knows what works.
All in all i'd say a 3.5 stars out of 5, wouldn't read again but looking forward to a third if there is one.
This is the second in the Opal Glass Series which i can say for sure is definitely not as good as the Study series. Yes the characters from the Study series still appear here and there but ugg!
It does improve and I have to say I really liked the end of the book but the first half I was really reconsidering liking this new series :) There are some new characters in this book which are very similar to some old characters but she knows what works.
All in all i'd say a 3.5 stars out of 5, wouldn't read again but looking forward to a third if there is one.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Ravishing in Red (Rarest Blooms book 1)
by Madeline Hunter.
A new author (for me)! And some more victorian romances. This series is about a group of women who come together with secrets in their past that they keep secret. Each will find their true love through out the 4 books. First we follow Audrianna who wants to clear her father's name as her story intertwines with Sebastian who is still trying to find all involved in the crime her father was accused of.
I found Madeline Hunter's writing to be unique for a victorian romance, she does her research and you learn a lot about the political situation that was going on at the time. Quite interesting. I jumped right into the second after reading this one in a day.
A new author (for me)! And some more victorian romances. This series is about a group of women who come together with secrets in their past that they keep secret. Each will find their true love through out the 4 books. First we follow Audrianna who wants to clear her father's name as her story intertwines with Sebastian who is still trying to find all involved in the crime her father was accused of.
I found Madeline Hunter's writing to be unique for a victorian romance, she does her research and you learn a lot about the political situation that was going on at the time. Quite interesting. I jumped right into the second after reading this one in a day.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Seducing an Angel (Huxtables book 4)
by Mary Balogh.
This one follows the brother Stephen while he is seduced by a widow whose reputation for murdering her husband precedes her. It was good, not the best in the series but still good. I'm actually really looking forward to the next which follows their cousin Con.
This one follows the brother Stephen while he is seduced by a widow whose reputation for murdering her husband precedes her. It was good, not the best in the series but still good. I'm actually really looking forward to the next which follows their cousin Con.
And Last Come Love (Huxtables book 3)
by Mary Balogh.
Well not really last :) This is the third in the huxtables series. It follows the eldest sister who is now 30 and heartbroken. She bumps into a complete stranger who asks her to marry him. Turns out he has a very scandalous past. I liked this one a lot, the main character was so likeable.
Well not really last :) This is the third in the huxtables series. It follows the eldest sister who is now 30 and heartbroken. She bumps into a complete stranger who asks her to marry him. Turns out he has a very scandalous past. I liked this one a lot, the main character was so likeable.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Then Comes Seduction (Huxtables book 2)
by Mary Balogh.
The second in the series of 5, this one follows the youngest sister who is almost ruined at the age of 18 by a complete rake. He can't go through with it however and 3 years later finds himself wagering her that he can make her fall in love with him and vice versa. I did enjoy this one and I like the strong family connections between the books so you get to see where the previous characters are in life. Quite a bit of time passes between books too which makes things more realistic.
The second in the series of 5, this one follows the youngest sister who is almost ruined at the age of 18 by a complete rake. He can't go through with it however and 3 years later finds himself wagering her that he can make her fall in love with him and vice versa. I did enjoy this one and I like the strong family connections between the books so you get to see where the previous characters are in life. Quite a bit of time passes between books too which makes things more realistic.
Anne of Avonlea (Anne book 2)
by L.M. Montgomery.
I finally got started on the second book which picks up right where the first left off. These books are easy to listen to in the car because even if I drift off and think of other things I don't miss much (she rambles quite a bit) but they are lovely books and I love the characters.
This book brought in some new characters and a little love story for them. I really enjoyed it. It also prepares for the next book when Anne returns to her own schooling, I can't wait!
I finally got started on the second book which picks up right where the first left off. These books are easy to listen to in the car because even if I drift off and think of other things I don't miss much (she rambles quite a bit) but they are lovely books and I love the characters.
This book brought in some new characters and a little love story for them. I really enjoyed it. It also prepares for the next book when Anne returns to her own schooling, I can't wait!
First Comes Marriage (Huxtable book 1)
by Mary Balogh.
Aimee loaned me a new series that takes place in victorian times! This series revolves around the Huxtables (3 sisters and one brother) who come into an inheritance (the brother comes into a title) and start moving in new circles.
This first book is the story of the middle sister who is widowed and asks an Earl to marry her because she thinks he's about to ask her sister and she knows her sister will say yes but be unhappy in the marriage. It's always neat how many plots can be thought up to place 2 people in a marriage before they know each other and then they fall in love.
The story is a good one though and it led me right into the second which is about the youngest sister who is falling for a complete rake.
Aimee loaned me a new series that takes place in victorian times! This series revolves around the Huxtables (3 sisters and one brother) who come into an inheritance (the brother comes into a title) and start moving in new circles.
This first book is the story of the middle sister who is widowed and asks an Earl to marry her because she thinks he's about to ask her sister and she knows her sister will say yes but be unhappy in the marriage. It's always neat how many plots can be thought up to place 2 people in a marriage before they know each other and then they fall in love.
The story is a good one though and it led me right into the second which is about the youngest sister who is falling for a complete rake.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
A Compromised Lady
by Elizabeth Rolls.
I've been sick the last two days, the only good that came of it was some reading time, although Monday I mostly just slept, yesterday I was able to at least read. And the kindle doesn't bother my headache like the computer!
So I finished up A Compromised Lady and I have to say, it's probably my favorite of the 3 (it's technically the second book but I read them out of order). I loved both characters, both such good people that this has to be my favorite. Although I already like Richard from the first book where his twin Max fell in love.
It's another Victorian romance. I'll have to try some more Elizabeth Rolls soon but for now my sister just dropped of a stack of new books (new authors) that are all Victorian age so I must give them a try!
I've been sick the last two days, the only good that came of it was some reading time, although Monday I mostly just slept, yesterday I was able to at least read. And the kindle doesn't bother my headache like the computer!
So I finished up A Compromised Lady and I have to say, it's probably my favorite of the 3 (it's technically the second book but I read them out of order). I loved both characters, both such good people that this has to be my favorite. Although I already like Richard from the first book where his twin Max fell in love.
It's another Victorian romance. I'll have to try some more Elizabeth Rolls soon but for now my sister just dropped of a stack of new books (new authors) that are all Victorian age so I must give them a try!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Blue Smoke
by Nora Roberts.
Another change after Anne of Green Gables. I hadn't yet purchased Anne of Avonlea so decided to try out Blue Smoke which has been sitting on my ipod for a while. It was a long one but i liked it. It had a lot of mystery/danger, reminded me of her JD Robb books in that sense (but not a futuristic book) :)
It also followed the main character through her whole life, from a child, through college, mid twenties to early thirties where the main mystery takes place. I enjoyed it very much.
Not sure what's next - just got Anne of Avonlea so I may go back to that.
Another change after Anne of Green Gables. I hadn't yet purchased Anne of Avonlea so decided to try out Blue Smoke which has been sitting on my ipod for a while. It was a long one but i liked it. It had a lot of mystery/danger, reminded me of her JD Robb books in that sense (but not a futuristic book) :)
It also followed the main character through her whole life, from a child, through college, mid twenties to early thirties where the main mystery takes place. I enjoyed it very much.
Not sure what's next - just got Anne of Avonlea so I may go back to that.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Lord Braybrook's Penniless Bride
by Elizabeth Rolls.
Turns out this is kind of a third in a series. Luckily I had read the first in the series so I recognized the characters when they were referenced and it was just in passing so it didn't affect anything.
After the first book (His Lady Mistress) I decided I liked the style and purchased a few more of her books on Kindle and I'm glad I did. This one was hard to put down and I read it within a 24 hour period. Makes me think twice about starting the other one I bought before bed tonight :)
This one revolved around a Lord who finds a woman in need of a job and hires her as a governess for his siblings and companion for his step-mother. Eventually (obviously) falling in love with her. There were lots of characters and complex relationships which made for a good read. It dealt a lot with bastard children (unclaimed) which was an interesting viewpoint and theme throughout.
All in all I definitely liked it and look forward to reading the "second" in the trilogy especially now that i know it's tightly linked to the first book (the main character's brother is the main character in the second).
Turns out this is kind of a third in a series. Luckily I had read the first in the series so I recognized the characters when they were referenced and it was just in passing so it didn't affect anything.
After the first book (His Lady Mistress) I decided I liked the style and purchased a few more of her books on Kindle and I'm glad I did. This one was hard to put down and I read it within a 24 hour period. Makes me think twice about starting the other one I bought before bed tonight :)
This one revolved around a Lord who finds a woman in need of a job and hires her as a governess for his siblings and companion for his step-mother. Eventually (obviously) falling in love with her. There were lots of characters and complex relationships which made for a good read. It dealt a lot with bastard children (unclaimed) which was an interesting viewpoint and theme throughout.
All in all I definitely liked it and look forward to reading the "second" in the trilogy especially now that i know it's tightly linked to the first book (the main character's brother is the main character in the second).
Monday, June 7, 2010
The Apothecary's Daughter
by Julie Klassen.
Well that was another good book. It was hard to tell where it was going to end up which can be frustrating but it was a good ride. These books are not romances, they are just straight fiction novels set in the Victorian age.
My one complaint would be that while it is overall a type of love story, you never really know what's inside the main character's head as far as who she may be falling in love with. She doesn't really know but she doesn't agonize over it "out loud" so you really don't know what her feelings are. That's the reason you don't really know how it will end up.
Overall a good book though and I really enjoyed it throughout. I finished up last night after watching "Northanger Abby" and "Persuasion" (Jane Austen movies). I will say there was more than one line in Julie Klassen's second book that was pretty much straight from an Austen book. So she was definitely inspired a bit by Austen.
Well that was another good book. It was hard to tell where it was going to end up which can be frustrating but it was a good ride. These books are not romances, they are just straight fiction novels set in the Victorian age.
My one complaint would be that while it is overall a type of love story, you never really know what's inside the main character's head as far as who she may be falling in love with. She doesn't really know but she doesn't agonize over it "out loud" so you really don't know what her feelings are. That's the reason you don't really know how it will end up.
Overall a good book though and I really enjoyed it throughout. I finished up last night after watching "Northanger Abby" and "Persuasion" (Jane Austen movies). I will say there was more than one line in Julie Klassen's second book that was pretty much straight from an Austen book. So she was definitely inspired a bit by Austen.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Lady of Milkweed Manor
by Julie Klassen.
A new author for me, and another free book on Kindle I thought I would give it a try. I am really glad I did. This is not the typical romance that I thought it would be (at all!). It's set in Victorian times in England and follows the life of a young girl/woman who becomes pregnant and is outcast from her family (her father the vicar). She goes to the "Manor" for her lie-in and the book follows her whole life, the decisions she makes and the changes she goes through. I really enjoyed it a lot.
I'm going to continue on with Julie Klassen's second book The Apothecary's Daughter since I like her style so much!
A new author for me, and another free book on Kindle I thought I would give it a try. I am really glad I did. This is not the typical romance that I thought it would be (at all!). It's set in Victorian times in England and follows the life of a young girl/woman who becomes pregnant and is outcast from her family (her father the vicar). She goes to the "Manor" for her lie-in and the book follows her whole life, the decisions she makes and the changes she goes through. I really enjoyed it a lot.
I'm going to continue on with Julie Klassen's second book The Apothecary's Daughter since I like her style so much!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Anne of Green Gables (Anne book 1)
by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
After Tale of the Thunderbolt I wanted something light so I chose Anne. I never read this series as a kid but watched the made for tv mini-series/movies and loved them (Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea). So I was vaguely familiar with the story line and characters.
The book started out SO slowly, Anne is so young and BABBLEs about everything! But as she grows and develops so does the method of relaying the story and it ended up being just as enjoyable as I remember. I'm definitely looking forward to continuing this series either in audio format or in kindle or otherwise (free on kindle). I also would like to see the tv series again now.
I would love to share this series with cousins and nieces. It's such a great set of books. They have to be able to deal with death of a loved one since that happens at the end of the first book but it's handled well and honestly so I think it's a great learning about life type book.
After Tale of the Thunderbolt I wanted something light so I chose Anne. I never read this series as a kid but watched the made for tv mini-series/movies and loved them (Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea). So I was vaguely familiar with the story line and characters.
The book started out SO slowly, Anne is so young and BABBLEs about everything! But as she grows and develops so does the method of relaying the story and it ended up being just as enjoyable as I remember. I'm definitely looking forward to continuing this series either in audio format or in kindle or otherwise (free on kindle). I also would like to see the tv series again now.
I would love to share this series with cousins and nieces. It's such a great set of books. They have to be able to deal with death of a loved one since that happens at the end of the first book but it's handled well and honestly so I think it's a great learning about life type book.
His Lady Mistress (kindle only)
by Elizabeth Rolls.
This Victorian romance was free on Kindle so I decided to give it a try since I love Victorian age novels (romance with mystery is more my style though). This was enjoyable and hard to put down. There were a lot of reviews about the frustration dealing with the mis-communications but I feel that most romances revolve around mis-communication and this one wasn't as unrealistic as most books (where you may be just yelling at a character to just say what they MEAN). This one I could understand why there were mis-understandings for the most part.
All in all it was a good read and for a free book, definitely worth it!
This Victorian romance was free on Kindle so I decided to give it a try since I love Victorian age novels (romance with mystery is more my style though). This was enjoyable and hard to put down. There were a lot of reviews about the frustration dealing with the mis-communications but I feel that most romances revolve around mis-communication and this one wasn't as unrealistic as most books (where you may be just yelling at a character to just say what they MEAN). This one I could understand why there were mis-understandings for the most part.
All in all it was a good read and for a free book, definitely worth it!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tale of the Thunderbolt (Vampire Earth book 3)
by E.E. Knight.
I'm finally back to this series. It took me a while, needed some light reading after the first two but I really enjoy the characters so once I started the third one I didn't have a problem picking it up every day. I really enjoyed this one and while the end was a bit heart breaking I think it fit well with the story.
I'm going to switch to something lighter now but will definitely continue this series.
I'm finally back to this series. It took me a while, needed some light reading after the first two but I really enjoy the characters so once I started the third one I didn't have a problem picking it up every day. I really enjoyed this one and while the end was a bit heart breaking I think it fit well with the story.
I'm going to switch to something lighter now but will definitely continue this series.
Tempt me at Twilight (Hathaways book 3)
by Lisa Kleypas.
The third was better than the second, kept me on my toes for sure and reminded me even more of an Amanda Quick book which is good since I love her books :)
I'm looking forward to continuing this series!
The third was better than the second, kept me on my toes for sure and reminded me even more of an Amanda Quick book which is good since I love her books :)
I'm looking forward to continuing this series!
Seduce me at Sunrise (Hathaways book 2)
by Lisa Kleypas.
The second book wasn't as good as the first, not sure anything could be, but was interesting none the less and I loved the characters. As an audiobook this series is perfect, it moves along quickly and stays interesting. I would definitely recommend it.
If you like Amanda Quick books I think you'd like Lisa Kleypas, at least this series so far, I plan to try out some of her other books soon too.
The second book wasn't as good as the first, not sure anything could be, but was interesting none the less and I loved the characters. As an audiobook this series is perfect, it moves along quickly and stays interesting. I would definitely recommend it.
If you like Amanda Quick books I think you'd like Lisa Kleypas, at least this series so far, I plan to try out some of her other books soon too.
A Fatal Waltz (Lady Emily book 3)
by Tasha Alexander.
I love love love this series. It's got suspense, action, romance and relationships. All set in the Victorian age in europe. I just finished up this third one and was very pleased with the outcome, never disappointed at all. I can't wait to read the 4th and just wish there were more!
I love love love this series. It's got suspense, action, romance and relationships. All set in the Victorian age in europe. I just finished up this third one and was very pleased with the outcome, never disappointed at all. I can't wait to read the 4th and just wish there were more!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Twist of Fate
by Jayne Ann Krentz.
I really enjoyed this book, reminded me why I like JAK so much! Not sure why I put off reading it, probably because I have the kindle but still this was a quick read and it really kept me interested.
I really enjoyed this book, reminded me why I like JAK so much! Not sure why I put off reading it, probably because I have the kindle but still this was a quick read and it really kept me interested.
How to Cook without a Book
by Pam Anderson.
This is a strange one for my book list here but I read it cover to cover so it fits :) I got this book for Christmas and found it highly entertaining and inspiring. It was everything I hoped it would be, almost like it was written for me.
And now that I've cooked from this book (without it in front of me even!) and I can highly recommend it. I followed the saute "recipe" on both pork chops and strip steaks and it was a success. I've also made 2 pan sauces, the orange sauce we LOVE and the apple cider one was okay but next time I would not add the vinegar, we like sweet sauces with pork chops better.
This is a strange one for my book list here but I read it cover to cover so it fits :) I got this book for Christmas and found it highly entertaining and inspiring. It was everything I hoped it would be, almost like it was written for me.
And now that I've cooked from this book (without it in front of me even!) and I can highly recommend it. I followed the saute "recipe" on both pork chops and strip steaks and it was a success. I've also made 2 pan sauces, the orange sauce we LOVE and the apple cider one was okay but next time I would not add the vinegar, we like sweet sauces with pork chops better.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Mine Till Midnight (Hathaways book 1)
by Lisa Kleypas.
I got this one as a deal on audible, new author to try. I picked it out because it's set in the Victorian age in England and it involves a little mystery/intrigue. I was thinking it might be like an Amanda Quick. I was close. It's actually like a cross between Amanda Quick and Deanna Raybourn. A little heavy on the passion/romance side but the story was interesting and the characters very likable. This is good because it's a series :)
This first book details the budding romance between Amelia Hathaway (the oldest sister) and Cam Rohan (a half-Gypsy). There's a lot of drama in the book outside of their romance which keeps the book quite interesting and I was swept right up. Even as an audiobook I listened to it after getting home a couple of nights because I "couldn't put it down".
It doesn't rate up as high as my favorite Deanna Raybourn books do (I won't read it over again) but it was highly enjoyable and I look forward to the next in the series although I doubt it can stand up to this one.
I got this one as a deal on audible, new author to try. I picked it out because it's set in the Victorian age in England and it involves a little mystery/intrigue. I was thinking it might be like an Amanda Quick. I was close. It's actually like a cross between Amanda Quick and Deanna Raybourn. A little heavy on the passion/romance side but the story was interesting and the characters very likable. This is good because it's a series :)
This first book details the budding romance between Amelia Hathaway (the oldest sister) and Cam Rohan (a half-Gypsy). There's a lot of drama in the book outside of their romance which keeps the book quite interesting and I was swept right up. Even as an audiobook I listened to it after getting home a couple of nights because I "couldn't put it down".
It doesn't rate up as high as my favorite Deanna Raybourn books do (I won't read it over again) but it was highly enjoyable and I look forward to the next in the series although I doubt it can stand up to this one.
Tears of the Moon (Jewels book 2)
by Nora Roberts.
The second in the series followed the second Gallagher brother (Shawn) and childhood friend Brenna as they fall in love and complete the second of the three courtships that must occur to free the ghost at fairy hill cottage. Brenna was a likable character. The book was enjoyable but I needed a break before moving onto the final in the series.
The second in the series followed the second Gallagher brother (Shawn) and childhood friend Brenna as they fall in love and complete the second of the three courtships that must occur to free the ghost at fairy hill cottage. Brenna was a likable character. The book was enjoyable but I needed a break before moving onto the final in the series.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Poisoned Season (Lady Emily Mysteries book 2)
by Tasha Alexander.
I couldn't resist more of Lady Emily. I don't like her as much as Lady Julia Grey but almost as much :)
The second in the series was just as entertaining as the first. There was some more character development and returning characters are always fun. They mystery involved the murder of a man and the wrongful accusation of a servant for that murder. At the same time there is a burglar whose attention is captured by Lady Emily. Mystery, intrigue, flirtation, it's all there.
I couldn't resist more of Lady Emily. I don't like her as much as Lady Julia Grey but almost as much :)
The second in the series was just as entertaining as the first. There was some more character development and returning characters are always fun. They mystery involved the murder of a man and the wrongful accusation of a servant for that murder. At the same time there is a burglar whose attention is captured by Lady Emily. Mystery, intrigue, flirtation, it's all there.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Jewels of the Sun (Jewels book 1)
by Nora Roberts.
I got this trilogy on audible when I was looking for something new and light to read. It's got some fantasy and of course some romance since it's Nora Roberts. I was actually disappointed that there isn't any mystery to this one. It's got fairy tails which are interesting but no actual mystery or evil to defeat.
All in all though it was a good read and I really liked the characters. Definitely laughed out loud a few times. I finished this while working on the house so I jumped right in to the second one since I wasn't done working for the evening.
I got this trilogy on audible when I was looking for something new and light to read. It's got some fantasy and of course some romance since it's Nora Roberts. I was actually disappointed that there isn't any mystery to this one. It's got fairy tails which are interesting but no actual mystery or evil to defeat.
All in all though it was a good read and I really liked the characters. Definitely laughed out loud a few times. I finished this while working on the house so I jumped right in to the second one since I wasn't done working for the evening.
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Villa
by Nora Roberts.
I really enjoy the darker longer mysteries Nora Roberts writes. This one was great, not really dark like Divine Evil but long enough and involved enough to get to know multiple characters and relationship and she alway intertwines multiple love stories in her longer ones. It was very good and I enjoyed the Italian part of the book as well.
This one takes place mostly in California in a vineyard. It's a mystery surrounding a family owned wine company. Lots of details on wine making were a bonus.
I really enjoy the darker longer mysteries Nora Roberts writes. This one was great, not really dark like Divine Evil but long enough and involved enough to get to know multiple characters and relationship and she alway intertwines multiple love stories in her longer ones. It was very good and I enjoyed the Italian part of the book as well.
This one takes place mostly in California in a vineyard. It's a mystery surrounding a family owned wine company. Lots of details on wine making were a bonus.
Monday, March 8, 2010
The Dead Travel Fast
by Deanna Raybourn.
A new book - not a Lady Julia Grey novel, this one is set in Transylvania with a new heroine (a writer) and some very lively characters.
One word: Awesome. Truly! I loved it. It was unique and a little bit unpredictable. I enjoyed it immensely. Deanna Raybourn is definitely my favorite author - consistently! I can't wait for the next Lady Julia Grey or anything else she may write now!
A new book - not a Lady Julia Grey novel, this one is set in Transylvania with a new heroine (a writer) and some very lively characters.
One word: Awesome. Truly! I loved it. It was unique and a little bit unpredictable. I enjoyed it immensely. Deanna Raybourn is definitely my favorite author - consistently! I can't wait for the next Lady Julia Grey or anything else she may write now!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Grave Secret (Harper Connelly book 4)
by Charlaine Harris.
This is the 4th and final book in the series. My issue with this series is the brother/sister/love relationship between Toliver and Harper. It's hard to get past the relationship however I love the mystery behind the gift Harper has been given and I find it a very intriguing psychic power that a lot could be done with so I'll be sorry to not read more in the series.
This one did not disappoint at all. The mystery surrounding Harper's sister was finally solved and I enjoyed the mystery very much.
This is the 4th and final book in the series. My issue with this series is the brother/sister/love relationship between Toliver and Harper. It's hard to get past the relationship however I love the mystery behind the gift Harper has been given and I find it a very intriguing psychic power that a lot could be done with so I'll be sorry to not read more in the series.
This one did not disappoint at all. The mystery surrounding Harper's sister was finally solved and I enjoyed the mystery very much.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
And Only to Deceive (Lady Emily Mysteries, Book 1)
by Tasha Alexander.
The first in a new series. I was very happy with this series and look forward to reading more. Lady Emily is a widow, her husband, whom she barely knew, passes away in Africa on a hunting trip. She gets entangled in a mystery involving her husband and a few other gentlemen (all of whom are in love with her it seems).
It rounds out nicely and her independent nature does not get her into any trouble. The characters are easy to like and I look forward to the next in the series - which I already ordered on my kindle!
The first in a new series. I was very happy with this series and look forward to reading more. Lady Emily is a widow, her husband, whom she barely knew, passes away in Africa on a hunting trip. She gets entangled in a mystery involving her husband and a few other gentlemen (all of whom are in love with her it seems).
It rounds out nicely and her independent nature does not get her into any trouble. The characters are easy to like and I look forward to the next in the series - which I already ordered on my kindle!
The Walking Dead (Walker Papers book 4)
by C.E. Murphy.
Finally another Walker book. I love this Shaman series and although it's been a while, there are enough references to bring things back as you go through it. Joanne is stronger in her magic and sense of self in this one and she's actually dating! Although the unspoken pull still exists with her boss, and I wish it would work out between the two of them - although the author seems determined to keep them apart. Her reaction to him drumming her under this time really bothered me (lack of reaction I should say) and I hope the author isn't going to make them just friends.
All in all the actual story line was great and I thought the end came together rather well. I can't wait until the next in the series whenever that may be.
Finally another Walker book. I love this Shaman series and although it's been a while, there are enough references to bring things back as you go through it. Joanne is stronger in her magic and sense of self in this one and she's actually dating! Although the unspoken pull still exists with her boss, and I wish it would work out between the two of them - although the author seems determined to keep them apart. Her reaction to him drumming her under this time really bothered me (lack of reaction I should say) and I hope the author isn't going to make them just friends.
All in all the actual story line was great and I thought the end came together rather well. I can't wait until the next in the series whenever that may be.
Dangerous Games
by Jayne Ann Krentz.
This was a 2 part book - The Devil to Pay and Wizard.
These are her earlier works and I wasn't a big fan. They kept me interested but the men are very possessive and overbearing and drive me nuts. Plus there's something they always harp on (the women usually) - over and over which also drives me nuts. But i can't resist reading them when they're dropped in my lap (borrowed from my sister).
This was a 2 part book - The Devil to Pay and Wizard.
These are her earlier works and I wasn't a big fan. They kept me interested but the men are very possessive and overbearing and drive me nuts. Plus there's something they always harp on (the women usually) - over and over which also drives me nuts. But i can't resist reading them when they're dropped in my lap (borrowed from my sister).
Friday, February 19, 2010
Emma
by Jane Austen.
I decided to re-read Emma after watching the new miniseries adaptation of it and loving it. I got it on the kindle (free) and started it right up.
Wow the miniseries follows the book almost exactly! It was a joy to read and I loved having the miniseries characters in my heat. Emma make me cringe a bit (I hate when people are acting stupidly) unlike Pride & Prejudice but in the end I really love the book and the growth of Emma through the book.
A highly enjoyable book and I'm sure I'll visit it again sometime!
I decided to re-read Emma after watching the new miniseries adaptation of it and loving it. I got it on the kindle (free) and started it right up.
Wow the miniseries follows the book almost exactly! It was a joy to read and I loved having the miniseries characters in my heat. Emma make me cringe a bit (I hate when people are acting stupidly) unlike Pride & Prejudice but in the end I really love the book and the growth of Emma through the book.
A highly enjoyable book and I'm sure I'll visit it again sometime!
River God
by Wilbur Smith.
This was a re-read for me, i listened to it a long time ago so i knew what was going to happen but had forgotten the details and it's so very enjoyable to read! It took forever to get through it because my ability to listen to my ipod in the car stopped for about a month but now that i fixed that problem i finished it right up!
The point of re-reading this was to then read Warlock and his other books but I'm taking a quick detour to read some books that came out recently that I've been waiting to listen to.
This book goes through a period of Egypts history, from the point of view of a slave (a very special slave). There is love, there is loss, there is war, there is adventure. It's hightly entertaining to listen to. There are some parts, particularly in the first half of the book that are VERY gruesome and difficult to listen to but otherwise the book is great.
This was a re-read for me, i listened to it a long time ago so i knew what was going to happen but had forgotten the details and it's so very enjoyable to read! It took forever to get through it because my ability to listen to my ipod in the car stopped for about a month but now that i fixed that problem i finished it right up!
The point of re-reading this was to then read Warlock and his other books but I'm taking a quick detour to read some books that came out recently that I've been waiting to listen to.
This book goes through a period of Egypts history, from the point of view of a slave (a very special slave). There is love, there is loss, there is war, there is adventure. It's hightly entertaining to listen to. There are some parts, particularly in the first half of the book that are VERY gruesome and difficult to listen to but otherwise the book is great.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Lady Susan
by Jane Austen.
I got this one for free on my Kindle and read it in 2 evenings. It takes the format of letters written between different characters which in turn tell a story of Lady Susan which is compelling and very entertaining. Lady Susan is not a good person, she is very selfish and prides herself on flirtation and manipulation. I really enjoyed reading the story and flew right through it. I would highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys Austen or historical pieces in general.
I got this one for free on my Kindle and read it in 2 evenings. It takes the format of letters written between different characters which in turn tell a story of Lady Susan which is compelling and very entertaining. Lady Susan is not a good person, she is very selfish and prides herself on flirtation and manipulation. I really enjoyed reading the story and flew right through it. I would highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys Austen or historical pieces in general.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The Third Circle (Arcane Society book 4) (again)
by Amanda Quick.
Again, re-reading these in historical order instead of written order. I read this one very quickly (almost in a single day) and since I was not feeling well I don't even remember much of it.
Main characters are Thaddeus Ware (mesmerist) and cousin to Caleb Jones. Leona Hewitt (crystal/dream worker) who has only one family member Uncle Edward (who went to America on an investment scheme).
Thaddeus' aunt Victoria (matchmaker) is a main character as well.
Adam Harrow and Mr. Pierce are main characters again in this one as well.
As for the hoodlums in this book - we have Dr. Basil Hulsey (chemist), Lancing (parahunter), Delbridge (collector of antiquities) and the entire Third Circle.
Next up would be Perfect Poison however that one is still quite expensive so I may wait. I still remember that one pretty well too.
Again, re-reading these in historical order instead of written order. I read this one very quickly (almost in a single day) and since I was not feeling well I don't even remember much of it.
Main characters are Thaddeus Ware (mesmerist) and cousin to Caleb Jones. Leona Hewitt (crystal/dream worker) who has only one family member Uncle Edward (who went to America on an investment scheme).
Thaddeus' aunt Victoria (matchmaker) is a main character as well.
Adam Harrow and Mr. Pierce are main characters again in this one as well.
As for the hoodlums in this book - we have Dr. Basil Hulsey (chemist), Lancing (parahunter), Delbridge (collector of antiquities) and the entire Third Circle.
Next up would be Perfect Poison however that one is still quite expensive so I may wait. I still remember that one pretty well too.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Second Sight (Arcane Society book 1) again
by Amanda Quick.
Reading this on my kindle now I've been inspired to come up with a family tree of sorts that maps out the characters in each book. There are some family names that recur throughout the books that I want to keep track of.
This one for example tells the story of Gabriel Jones (parahunter) and Venetia Milton (Aura talent).
Other characters include ...
Amelia Milton (Sister), Edward Milton (Brother), Beatrice (Aunt)
Hippolyte Jones (senses other talents) (Father), Marjorie Jones (card talent) (Mother), Caleb Jones (strat) (cousin)
John Stillwater (parahunter) son of ?? - tied to Arcane Society
Rosalind Flemming AKA Charlotte Bliss (mesmerist)
Adam Harlow and Mr. Pierce (crime lord) (women dressed as men)
Second Sight goes through the history of the Arcane Society in relation to the "formula". The formula has been stolen and the people that stole it are looking for the antidote. Venetia is posing as Gabriel's widow until he comes back from the dead to claim his bride. She is a photographer and he is set up to become the next Master of the Arcane Society.
Reading this on my kindle now I've been inspired to come up with a family tree of sorts that maps out the characters in each book. There are some family names that recur throughout the books that I want to keep track of.
This one for example tells the story of Gabriel Jones (parahunter) and Venetia Milton (Aura talent).
Other characters include ...
Amelia Milton (Sister), Edward Milton (Brother), Beatrice (Aunt)
Hippolyte Jones (senses other talents) (Father), Marjorie Jones (card talent) (Mother), Caleb Jones (strat) (cousin)
John Stillwater (parahunter) son of ?? - tied to Arcane Society
Rosalind Flemming AKA Charlotte Bliss (mesmerist)
Adam Harlow and Mr. Pierce (crime lord) (women dressed as men)
Second Sight goes through the history of the Arcane Society in relation to the "formula". The formula has been stolen and the people that stole it are looking for the antidote. Venetia is posing as Gabriel's widow until he comes back from the dead to claim his bride. She is a photographer and he is set up to become the next Master of the Arcane Society.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Fired Up (Dreamlight Trilogy book 1, Arcane Society book 7)
by Jayne Ann Krentz.
Yea! A new book - and it hit the NY Times best sellers list so it was 9.99 on the kindle! So i purchased this and jumped right in!
I love the Arcane Society series and this is the first in the Dreamlight Trilogy so it had a lot of new stuff with lots of references to the other books. It also had a lot of build up to the Fallon Jones book and the next Dreamlight book which comes out in April and is by Amanda Quick.
One thing I was kind of disappointed with is that she wrote the 21st century one before the Victorian age one so there was a lot of reference to something I hadn't read yet. But since these books are so predictable at least it didn't give anything away that wasn't obvious.
This book makes me want to go back and read the Arcane series in order chronologically (starting with all the Amanda Quick's then going on to the JAK's). So i purchases Second Sight and Sizzle and Burn on kindle to start right away.
Yea! A new book - and it hit the NY Times best sellers list so it was 9.99 on the kindle! So i purchased this and jumped right in!
I love the Arcane Society series and this is the first in the Dreamlight Trilogy so it had a lot of new stuff with lots of references to the other books. It also had a lot of build up to the Fallon Jones book and the next Dreamlight book which comes out in April and is by Amanda Quick.
One thing I was kind of disappointed with is that she wrote the 21st century one before the Victorian age one so there was a lot of reference to something I hadn't read yet. But since these books are so predictable at least it didn't give anything away that wasn't obvious.
This book makes me want to go back and read the Arcane series in order chronologically (starting with all the Amanda Quick's then going on to the JAK's). So i purchases Second Sight and Sizzle and Burn on kindle to start right away.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Pride and Prejudice (again!)
by Jane Austen.
This time I'm reading it on my new KINDLE! And what a great book to break my kindle in with!
This time I'm reading it on my new KINDLE! And what a great book to break my kindle in with!
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