Heather McCollum, Surrender: The Dragonfly Chronicles

Title:  Surrender: The Dragonfly Chronicles

Author:  Heather McCollum

Rating:  Five Siren Stones

Genre:  Fantasy

Sub-Genre:  Paranormal Romance

Keywords:  Sensual, Faery Rose, Telekinesis, Magic, Demons, Cowboy

Page Count:  382           

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-62830-000-0   

Price:  $5.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=177_139&products_id=5467 

Reviewer:  Rhonda J Callum-King

Blurb/Summary:

To save her father, Kailin must control her magical gift of telekinesis and unearth the cryptic Orb of Life in nineteenth-century Egypt. Only one man can help her, a treasure hunter with an agenda of his own. Besides battling demons, Kailin must also battle her attraction to the handsome American cowboy aiding her search.

Jackson Black desperately wants the Orb, an artifact said to have power over life and death. But to get it he must ignore his conscience and do things he never thought he'd do. Falling for Kailin will only jeopardize his mission.
Only Kailin's complete surrender to Jackson, the one man who can mute her powers, will save her life. But when she discovers his secret, it will take more than magic to save her heart. It will take trust and the ultimate treasure--love.

Review:

Surrender: The Dragonfly Chronicles is the fourth in the series.  I have read only the 3^rd and 4^th books of this series.  Surrender follows the fourth sister who has the bulk of their mother's magical powers.  She is so powerful that she cannot ever let down her guard for fear of injuring those that she loves.  Because of this, she has constructed mental walls to stay behind and never integrates with the general populace.  She resides in late Victorian England during the boom of the Egyptian tomb raiding period.  Kailin has been adopted and trained by an archeologist who found her in and Egyptian tomb as a child and is aware of her magic.  The story is rather Indiana Jones-ish and I enjoyed the scenery employed. 

The interplay between Kailin and Jackson Black is amusing.  Jackson is keeping secrets from her and has the role of American tomb raiding bad boy.  Kailin must trust him for them to become the destined mates of prophecy.  But how can one surrender to someone they cannot truly trust when they have spent their life living behind mental walls of safety?  Can Kailin trust the one man who completely disarms her of her magical powers and yet continues to lie to her?  I know I couldn't!  This is a great read with a completely different feel than the previous novel.  Read it, you'll love it.  

Brenna Lyons, All I Want for Christmas is You

Title:  All I Want for Christmas is You

Author:  Brenna Lyons

Rating:  Five Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Sub-Genre:  Erotic Romance

Keywords:  Romantic Comedy, Sensual, Bondage, HEA Ending

Page Count:  86            

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-60659-751-4    

Price:  $4.99

Publisher:  Phaze

Buy-Link:  http://phaze.com/book.php?title=All+I+Want+For+Christmas+Is+You

Reviewer:  Stacey Krug

Blurb/Summary:

Carson Cousins Book 1

Two years after losing her fiancé Zach in a car accident, Robin is moving on. She's set her priorities, and one of them is following through with a life plan she and Zach made together...having a baby. It would be best if said child shared some of Zach's genes. Enter David, Zach's older brother. He's Robin's best friend, her confidant, the one person who won't think she's crazy to do this...she hopes. Since there's no chance the ladies' man will fall for her, she hopes sex with him will stop the dreams where David takes Zach's place. It's the invitation he's been waiting for, three years of watching Robin with his little brother, then watching her grieve Zach. If only she wanted David for himself and not a convenient sperm donor to conceive his brother's child. Then again, in such close quarters, maybe he'll be able to convince her to something more permanent...if his parents don't catch wind of the whole thing first.

Review:

This was a fun story to read and watch unfold.  It’s hard not to like both the main characters, Robin and David.  The author brings them to life with believable backgrounds and insecurities.  Robin was engaged to David’s younger brother Zach.  Zach was killed in an accident that paralyzed Robin from moving forward.  While grieving, David was there for her as was Zach’s family.  When Robin decides she wants to have a baby and asks David to help her, David sees his chance to be with Robin.

Brenna Lyons turned up the heat in her extremely erotic, hot, steamy love scenes between Robin and David that will keep you reading for more.  The suspense around the parents and family finding out that David and Robin are together keeps the plot moving forward.  The secondary characters add some comedy and mirth to the story.

All I Want for Christmas is You is a story with some deep emotions that still managed to be light-hearted and enjoyable to read.  The ending is both happy and hopeful for the future unfolding for Robin and David.  

Sharon Sobel, A Cottage Affaire

Title:  A Cottage Affair

Author:  Sharon Sobel

Rating:  Three Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Last Rose of Summer, Sensual, Thrifty Means Series

Page Count:  364          

ISBN E-Book:  d5611  

Price:  $5.99 

ISBN For Print:  978-1-61217-026-8

Price:  $14.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_140&products_id=4800

Reviewer:  Marcie Oropeza (BookFairyMO)

Blurb/Summary:

[Thrifty Means Series]

Small New England towns may bury their dead, but never the past.

With an art scandal threatening her future as a curator, Arden Alexander seeks refuge in the small colonial cottage owned by the women of her family for generations. But her handsome neighbor won't let her hide for long.

For years, Alex Wingate has hoped to incorporate the cottage into his plans for an artists' retreat, and Arden's arrival is his golden opportunity. But when they discover some undocumented history about their families and are drawn into a partnership, Alex's interest in Arden soon extends to much more than her property.

Before long, someone else finds the contents of the cabin too tempting to resist, and Arden and Alex realize they are fighting for their future as well as their history. As they uncover the past, can they also find the truth about themselves and their growing love?

Review:

This is a lovely book; well-written and obviously well-researched.  It’s also about 150 pages too long.  There was more than enough time to develop the characters, however, this reader felt like she was always coming from behind in knowing them.  There was always the feeling that the characters knew more than they were revealing to the reader so the reader was often left thinking, “What’s going on here?”

The formatting was also a bit of an issue; the reader often had to refer back a bit to determine whose dialogue was actually being read.  Quite frustrating.  A good love story with a bit of a historical mystery, but at 364 pages, more frustrating than not and just not worth plodding through to solve it!

Toni Lynn Cloutier, The Patriot Girl

Title:  The Patriot Girl 

Author:  Toni Lynn Cloutier 

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Last Rose Of Summer, Sensual 

Page Count:  248       

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-61217-265-1

Price:  $4.99

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-266-8 

Price:  $11.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_140&products_id=4882

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

MaKayla Adams has always been curious about the wild side of life. Making love with her late husband wasn't exciting, and she never could understand the big deal...until hunky nightclub owner Dustin James hires her as a public relations consultant. His touch arouses feelings she's never known, and his kiss tempts her to cross the line between business and pleasure. 

Dustin doesn't remember the car accident that put him in a coma three years ago, but since his recovery, he's pushed his own needs aside to be a single father to his young daughter. When MaKayla offers to help publicize his country nightclub, however, she ignites deeper feelings he can't ignore. 

But there is more than mutual attraction between MaKayla and Dustin—there is a shared past connected to her husband's death. Will the truth bring them together or tear them apart?

Review:

When one thing is all you've ever known, finding something new could be quite difficult.  MaKayla is in a difficult place in her life.  Still dealing with the loss of her husband, and dealing with the feelings of having some excitement, she runs smack dab in the middle of it, in the form of Dustin James.

Dustin has his own demons.  There's the accident, and there's providing for his daughter.  But he has a need so deep that MaKayla pushes to the surface, and vice versa.

With a few secrets, this couple is going to have a long way to their happily ever after, but the journey there is emotional and engaging. 

Patrice Wilton, A Catered Affair

 Title:  A Catered Affair

Author:  Patrice Wilton

Rating:  Four And A Half Siren Stones

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Last Rose Of Summer, Sensual, Widower 

Page Count:  266       

ISBN E-Book:  d5432

Price:  $5.25

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-031-2

Price:  $12.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_140&products_id=4808

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

A family tragedy has career-minded Jenna Cassali housebound with two teenagers, a baby, and a dog from hell, with a hot doctor in pursuit. The longer she stays the more she realizes what’s missing in her own life, but she likes to play it safe, and safe means returning to New York and her job, not launching a catering business, or falling in love.
 
Grant, a pediatrician and widower, believes his son died because of his negligence. The hospital becomes his life, but when he meets Jenna, his broken heart begins to heal. 

Can he close the door on his past, and allow himself to love again? Will Jenna find the courage to change her destiny, open her life, and her heart?

Review:

Talk about chaos!  Having to take a break from your job and living in a house with some rowdy teenagers, a child....and a chance at love? Jenna is about to embark on a journey she'd never imagined she'd have.  Life has a few curve balls aimed right toward her.

The hero is a bit on the tortured side.  He's a doctor, and he is ashamed because he couldn't even save his own son.  Put Grant and Jenna together, and comes a new look on life.  There's some healing to be done, but together, these two learn they can accomplish anything.

A Catered Affair is an emotionally charged story that hooks the reader and keeps them going.  It's a touching story that sticks with you when you're not reading it. 

Rebecca Grace, Shadows From The Past

Title:  Shadows From The Past

Author:  Rebecca Grace

Rating:  Five Siren Stones

Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Keywords:  Crimson Miniature Rose, Sensual

Page Count:  144       

ISBN E-Book:  d5933   

Price:  $2.75

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=137&products_id=4777

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

When Stacey Moreno goes undercover on Evergreen Island, she's looking for answers to a friend's mysterious death, not trouble. After all, Stacey's not adventuresome--she lives vicariously through her cartoon creations and can't tell left from right. But from the moment she moves into spooky Redfern Manor and meets her sexy new boss, trouble starts and sparks fly.

Hobbled by injuries from a plane crash, former journalist Mack Warren came to Redfern Manor looking for escape, not romance. He intends to focus on the biography he's writing of the manor's former occupant and ignore the strange feelings his lively new assistant inspires.

As Stacey digs for answers, she's drawn to her mysterious boss, but he is obsessed with a ghost. With danger drawing near, can Stacey persuade Mack to face the shadows from the past that threaten to destroy their future?

Review:

A spooky house, an old friend dying under strange circumstances....it makes for a suspense novel that while short, it keeps the pace intense until the riveting climax.  Shadows From The Past is a great story that pulled me in immediately. It's haunting, suspenseful, and enjoyable.  Stacey just wants to get to the bottom of her friend's death.  What awaits Stacey are many surprises and even a shot at love.  Mack is mysterious, which draws me to him.  I wondered how he'd finally open up to Stacey.  The town and the house she stays at is full of secrets.  Rebecca Grace has created a thrilling ride with this story.  I had no idea what I would find out next and I rooted for Stacey to find out why her friend died.  If you're a fan of romantic suspense, Shadows From The Past is top notch!  Don't miss it! 

Title:  Spirit of the Rebellion

Author:  Debbie Peterson

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre: Fantasy

Keywords:  Faery Rose, Sensual 

Page Count:  354       

ISBN E-Book:  d5167 

Price:  $5.99

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-024-4

Price:  $14.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=177_139&products_id=4792

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Souls touch and emotions flare when a historian and an embittered spirit form an unlikely alliance to investigate the centuries-old riddle surrounding his death...

Ready for a fresh chapter in her life, Shae Lynn Montgomery accepts a job translating a cache of Civil War documents from Wisconsin's famous Norwegian regiment.  The assignment takes her to Chickamauga's haunted Starling Plantation and face-to-face with a handsome captain--its angry ghost in residence.

Tristan Jordahl, falsely accused of treason, has no use for the living--not even the lovely translator invading his home.  Despite Tristan's best efforts to frighten her, Shae Lynn refuses to leave, and reluctantly, Tristan enlists her help to clear his name. But as they grow closer to the truth--and to each other--an evil spirit makes it clear he will do anything to stop them.

Can a love that transcends time overcome all obstacles?

Review:

I truly enjoy stories like these- the obstacles that two people living a world apart face to be together after finding one another in the strangest of happenings.  So many questions run through my mind as I read the pages.  Spirit of the Rebellion is no different.  This lovely written story captured my attention with its wonderful characters, intense plot, and well written structure.  Good ghost romance stories are hard to come by, but this one is a definite keeper!  Tristan and Shae Lynn have a long way to go before they can find peace and happiness, and the story they take is one not to be missed!  Get your copy today. 

Tess Morrison, Kissing Livvy

 Title:  Kissing Livvy

Author:  Tess Morrison

Rating:  Four And A Half Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Champagne Rose, Sensual, Butternut Creek Series

Page Count:  276       

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-61217-157-9

Price:  $5.50

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-032-9 

Price:  $13.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_133&products_id=4751

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

[Butternut Creek Series]

After years of bouncing between foster homes, Livvy Sherman’s one attempt at commitment blew apart with a resounding thud and she ran.  Landing smack in the middle of the Tully family was not what this free-spirit counted on..

 Lumberjack Jesse Tully’s life was a dumping ground for nothing but commitment and responsibility. With a disapproving father, a troubled teenager, a crabby grandma and a struggling family business weighing on him, the last thing Jesse needed was this hippy-dippy protestor on his doorstep.

Funny thing, the one person with little family experience brings his dysfunctional family together.  It's what Jesse and his family teach Livvy about life, love and commitment that nearly brings her to her knees.  Once again, the open road looks mighty attractive.  Will the one thing that she fears the most be the very thing that saves her?

Review:

What will it take to tame a free spirit?  Could it be a few mishaps, and staying with a family so dysfunctional they could make a sitcom out of their life?  Maybe....

Livvy finds herself in a predicament.  She runs from her life after a discovery. She's branded with a group of people with intentions that may be good, but aren't presented well.  But for some reason, Jesse keeps her by his side instead of turning her in.

Jesse's got a lot on his plate.  He's a bit gruff, rough around the edges, but with all he deals with, it's understandable.  Though he has a soft spot for Livvy, which opens a door for unexpected possibilities.

Kissing Livvy is a wonderful, witty and fun contemporary romance.  You can really tell that the characters grow from the start to the ending and the journey in between charges the emotions of readers.  It sure did for me.  I'm glad I got a chance to read this book.  Tess Morrison creates a world I didn't want to leave, but enjoyed the ride the entire time. 

Tricia Jones, Bull at the Gate

Title: Bull at the Gate

Author: Tricia Jones

Rating: Three And A Half Siren Stones

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Keywords: Champagne Rose, Sensual

Page Count: 250

ISBN E-Book: 1-60154-975-X

Price: $6.00

ISBN for Print: 978-1601549754

Price: $12.99

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_133&products_id=4648

Reviewer: Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Alexander “Bull” McKinley’s reputation as a hard-nosed businessman is tested when an old Fairy Gate and local superstition stand in the way of a lucrative development contract. Alex has his hands full trying to convince the villagers to play ball, without the unexpected—and definitely unwanted—attraction to the feisty redhead leading the revolt.

Dee Ashman detests those who put profit before people, and she’s damned if an arrogant, insensitive and, okay, wildly attractive capitalist is going to destroy the symbolic heart of the village and break her beloved grandmother’s heart.

But they cannot deny the desire that burns between them nor the unleashed passion neither can resist.

Review:

Dee is a woman who is standing up for what she believes in. Currently, that is trying to get developers to leave a legendary Fairy Gate where it is. The gate is important to the people in her village, including her grandmother.

Alexander is the one trying to convince the villagers. They're not budging. They want to leave the Fairy Gate. I'm not fond of Alex for most of the book. He's one of those money hungry people that doesn't care about what others feel about landmarks. He just acts businesslike.

Dee's best friend is pushing her towards dating Alex. I don't find that very realistic, because why would a friend push her towards a man who is going against what she believes? I don't understand that thinking at all.

Other than that, the story is enjoyable. The tension is definitely there, as the pair stands on opposing sides of thinking. How are they going to resolve the biggest issue that could keep them apart? Bull at the Gate is a good contemporary story. If you enjoy contemporaries with plenty of conflict and tension, then don't miss out on Bull at the Gate.

Nancy Jardine, Monogamy Twist

Title: Monogamy Twist

Author: Nancy Jardine

Rating: Four And A Half Siren Stones

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Keywords: Champagne Rose, Sensual

Page Count: 270

ISBN E-Book: 1-60154-965-2

Price: $6.25

ISBN for Print: 978-1601549655

Price: $12.99

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_133&products_id=4594

Reviewer: Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Luke Salieri thought he'd seen everything. But when he inherits a dilapidated English estate from a woman he's never heard of—and with quirky conditions besides—it’s a mystery he wants resolved immediately. There must be a woman out there who can meet his needs. But how far will he have to go to persuade her?

Lucrative employment for a whole year? The job of researching the old house and its fantastic contents is enticing – but Rhia Ashton can’t see herself living with gorgeous Luke Salieri and not wanting his body as well. Can she live and sleep with him for a whole year and then walk away? Rhia has her own ideas about what will make it worth her while.

Review:

Who in their right mind would leave such a property to Luke? And with the conditions! But he hesitated to turn it down, for if he did, the house and land would soon fall to shambles.

Then there's Rhia. Their first encounter was anything but pleasant, considering she thought he was a burglar. But this little spitfire catches his attention, and Luke asks for her help.

Monogamy Twist is a light-hearted contemporary with a mystery element that will soothe the reader's soul. This isn't a graphic or violent novel. Instead, this is in the classic type of romance, and it aims to please. Nancy Jardine delivers a wonderful book that will have you turning the pages in awe to find out more. It's beautifully written with great plot, characters, and just the right amount of descriptions that leaves the readers with plenty to imagine.

If you enjoy a contemporary mystery romance, don't miss this book!

Sue Fineman, The Mitchell Money

Title: The Mitchell Money

Author: Sue Fineman

Rating: Four Siren Stones

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Keywords: Last Rose Of Summer Rose, Sensual, Martinson Ranch Series

Page Count: 272

ISBN E-Book: 1-60154-895-8

Price: $6.50

ISBN for Print: Price: $13.99

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_140&products_id=4477

Reviewer: Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Martinson Ranch Series

Where had her husband hidden their money? If he wasn’t dead, Rachel would leave him this time for sure. Without the money, she’ll lose her only asset, the half-built house on the hill outside Maystown, Arizona. The only man who can help her is the surly ex-cop who owns the ranch next door.

Gary is reluctant to get involved with the woman who backed into his truck, but she desperately needs his help. He strikes a deal – his investigative skills in exchange for Rachel’s cooking. He intends to find the money quickly and get the rude woman out of his life, but things get complicated. Gary discovers Rachel’s husband hid more than his money. His entire life was a lie.

Rachel’s vulnerability tugs at Gary’s heart. He’s been lonesome since his wife died, and he wants to keep Rachel at the ranch, but the truth about the past could tear them apart. After her husband’s treachery, she’ll never trust another man. Even him.

Review:

Some people have many secrets. Some of those secrets happen to come out when the person is dead, leaving behind a mind of chaos and wonder to those who knew the deceased, but didn't know their secrets.

Rachel was married to Mitch for over 20 years. He wasn't the best husband, but they made it work. Though after his death, Rachel struggled both financially and emotionally. Her late husband drained the savings accounts and left Rachel stranded.

She's hired to work as a cook for some neighbors. In return, Gary, a retired police officer, will help her find the missing money. Though their first impression of the other started off rocky, the two warmed up to each other after many circumstances kept them close.

This is a story featuring an older hero and heroine, and though they are very far off from my age, I was very drawn into this story. The situations were so real, and the characters were so full of life and emotion, readers won't be able to help but be immersed with this book.

If you enjoy contemporary romances, a bit of mystery, and an older hero and heroine, then pick up a copy of The Mitchell Money.

Rolynn Anderson, Last Resort

Title: Last Resort

Author: Rolynn Anderson

Rating: Four Siren Stones

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Keywords: Crimson Rose, Sensual

Page Count: 282

ISBN E-Book: 1-60154-925-3

Price: $6.25

ISBN for Print: 978-1601549259

Price: $13.99

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=137&products_id=4529

Reviewer: Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Corporate fixer Rena Gordon needs to wrench a Canadian resort out of the red in time for the Canadian-American Winter Games—but employees bent on sabotage are blocking her every move. When her loose-cannon sister arrives after being kicked out of yet another school, Rena must face the past she's worked so hard to hide, while fighting her attraction to a local fishing guide.

CIA agent Neal Jackson is undercover as a fishing guide to find terrorists at Big Bay. He needs Rena's confidence to access her employee files without exposing his identity, but despite his vow to keep a professional distance, his feelings for her are anything but businesslike.

Caught between vengeful employees, a sister who likes to party, and a hot CIA agent—Rena’s corporate training didn't prepare her for this. Can she trust her instincts to save the people and resort she's grown to love?

Review:

Set in beautiful Canada, this book is thrills and chills. With just the right amount of suspense, the pacing is great, and the characters come right off the pages in a memorable way. The way the author writes the mystery, it's hard to know who to trust in the book. The chemistry between Rena and Neal is intense, and the fact that he's got an important job to do at her resort makes it even fierier.

Rolynn Anderson weaves a tale that readers won't want to miss. It's got plenty of action, suspense and romance. This is a first time read for me by this author, and I can't wait to see what else Rolynn Anderson has in store in the future.