Review: Succubus Revealed by Richelle Mead

The Georgina Kincaid Succubus series by Richelle Mead is one of my top favorite urban fantasy series ever.  And Succubus Revealed is the final book.  Needless to say, I put off reading this book for quite some time.  I really didn't want it to end!  Monroe felt the same way.  As this is the final book in the series, there are definitely some spoilers.  But here's our review!

Succubus Revealed by Richelle Mead
Published by Kensington in August 2011
Genre:  Urban Fantasy
Series:  Georgina Kincaid #6

Georgina Kincaid has had an eternity to figure out the opposite sex, but sometimes they still surprise her. Take Seth Mortensen. The man has risked his soul to become Georgina's boyfriend. Still, with Lucifer for a boss, Georgina can't just hang up her killer heels and settle down to domestic bliss. In fact, she's being forced to transfer operations. . .to Las Vegas.

The City of Sin is a dream gig for a succubus, but Georgina's allies are suspicious. Why are the powers-that-be so eager to get her away from Seattle—and from Seth? Georgina is one of Hell's most valuable assets, but if there's any way out of the succubus business she plans to take it—no matter how much roadkill she leaves behind. She just hopes the casualties won't include the one man she's risking everything for. . .

Monroe: ....NOOOOOOO!!!!! I refuse to believe it's all over! =(

Ames: LOL I felt the same way, but I really really wanted to know how things would turn out for Georgina. It's always sad to see a series come to an end and Georgie's in particular, she was such a great character.

Monroe: I love how no matter what happened in her life she was so kick ass! She was a character who learned from her mistakes...this was no helpless heroine!

Ames: She was kick-ass, that's how she remained so plucky after thousands of years as a succubus.

Okay, so what did you think of Succubus Revealed itself?

Monroe: Loved it! I honestly felt that it gave me everything I was wanting but at the same time kept you guessing what the outcome would be! The only thing we didn't get was Roman...but I have a feeling we will at some point...maybe her next series??? *fingers crossed*

What about you? Were all your I's dotted and T's crossed? Was it what you expected?

Ames: Yes it was. I liked how there was a slow build-up to Georgie realizing something was wrong with the whole scenario of her being moved to Las Vegas. She was a bit naive to think hell didn't have something up it's sleeve, but I liked how Roman smartened her up. And I had the same thought about Roman too - that he might get his own series.

One thing that seemed unexplored was Doug. Remember how he said he always seemed to be aware of what she was feeling? I wonder if they had a connection in a previous life or something.

Monroe: Hmmmm...I didn't think about that! Wonder if it too might come up down the road?

As for Vegas I was fooled for a second but then everything was just falling into place too easily for her. I hated her old buddy what's his name was in on it. But I guess that's Hell for you.

I love how we are so used to her everyday life at the book store etc in all the past books and yet this one were pulled put of that aspect so we can focus on getting to the nitty gritty ya know? So for me it was sad not getting to finish the series in our normal setting but I see why it had to be done. And it shows the story itself (just like the character) evolving.

Ames: I missed the bookstore too and all the characters there. But I agree, the focus was more on the main characters in this one. I love how much we saw of her friends. And that even though they all work for hell, they were willing to go out on a limb for a friend.


Now Seth. I loved how much his family played a part in the book too. And his niece! The psychic one. And Carter, playing Santa for them. That's one of my favorites. I love Carter.

Monroe: Yes! I love that the niece was the one to break everything open with the cancer! And when Carter helped her mother I had tears! Just such a touching moment.

As for her friends...yes I loved that when it came down for it they felt she deserved so much more and decided to put their necks out for her.

My favorite part is Seth being hypnotized! Just all the past lived coming out...And I forgot about the priest! Out of all the past lives I loved that one the most. I always hoped we would get like one book that touched on all those lives....that would be awesome!

Ames: Seth being hypnotized, now that was a great scene. Just Georgie's reaction and then his reaction when he wakes up. Imagine Seth having to remember all that, and then the last thing he sees before he wakes up is when she cheated on him, in their very first life together. Harsh stuff. His reaction was believable.


One thing I was worried about was Seth's soul. In the previous book, we find out that if he died, he'd go to hell, he'd sinned so much. I was glad to find out he'd redeemed himself. Awww.

Monroe: Yes I was so happy Seth gained his soul back! I mean I just don't get him going to Hell he's too good for that!

Ok question...were you sort of hoping Carter and Georie would have something? I totally did...I mean I live in the land of Oz most days so I know it's not possible but a girl can dream right? I mean that last scene with them at the wedding? Sigh...

Ames: Throughout the whole series I always thought Carter and Georgie had something connecting them. That if Carter wasn't an angel, they'd totally hook up. LOL So yeah, I thought that last scene with Carter was very touching and I liked it. And I understand why they couldn't have something.

Monroe: Yeah, forbidden love and all that mess *eye roll* lol

You know who I still hate? Maddie! ha!

Ames: I don't hate her. I felt bad for her, falling for a man who loved Georgie. I kinda want to reread those books, where Georgie finds out Seth was with Maddie and then when Seth was with Georgie when she was human. LOL

Monroe: Omg I don't....remember how upset I was? It took me FOREVER to continue the series! Obviously I'm glad I did but still. That heartache sucked. And I know if it happened in real life it I would hate it for Maddie but because it's a book and fake I hate her lol I'm so glad she didn't really get brought up in this book except for like once.

So, grade?

Ames: Oh a solid A. I enjoyed it and thought it wrapped up the series in a good way.

Monroe: An A for me as well. Sad to see everyone leave but what a great send off!

Ames: I hope Roman gets a book or story at least.

Monroe: Me too! He was yummy!

Review: Blackout by Rob Thurman

Today is the release date of Doubletake, the 7th book in the Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman... so I thought it'd be the perfect day to put up this review :) A couple of years ago, I started reading this series and just fell in love with it... and I wasn't the only one. Leslie and Hilcia did too :) And it's become a tradition to review these books together :) Well last year, Leslie and I read Blackout... and buddy reviewed the books. However, that time, I kind of burned out on blogging... and the task of putting together the buddy review was daunting... So yes, this discussion has been in sitting in my inbox for almost a year ^_^; But I am back now!! And well better late than never, right? :) LOL, I promise the buddy review for Doubletake won't take as long! In the meantime, enjoy this review!


Blackout by Rob Thurman
published by ROC in March 2011

I was alone, and I was lost. I didn't know where I was; I didn't know who I was. it doesn't get more lost than that. Knowing what I knew and not knowing anything else at all, why would I want to be in the darkness where monsters hide?

Because killers hide there too...

Half-human Cal Leandros has always walked a bloody line between keeping his mortal soul free and clear (sort of) and unleashing the horror of his otherworldly heritage. The one thing that's always saved him is the memory of his brother, Niko, his friends, and those he loves. Until now.

Cal wakes up on a beach littered with the recently slaughtered remains of a variety of hideous creatures that were obviously looking for trouble. The fact that he is the one who did the slaughtering doesn't bother him. The fact that he feels like a natural-born killer doesn't either. What bothers Cal is that he doesn't remember Cal anymore... and he's not sure he cares.

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Cal Leandros, Book #6

The Story: The blurb sums it well. Cal Leandros wakes up with no memory of who or what he is. All he knows is that monsters do exist. Niko and Robin are able to track him down and bring him back to New York City... However, Niko struggles with this new Cal. This person is not he's little brother... but it could have been. A Cal unaware of his Auphe's bloodline... so what should Niko do? Hope that Cal recovers or wish for Cal's burden to never return? In the meantime, they still have to deal with monsters.


Nath: What did you think of Blackout, Leslie?

Leslie: Wow. I'm not sure what I was expecting but Thurman certainly came through with another exceptional book. It did seem to take me longer to read, due to there being more of Cal's internal monologue.

Nath: I’m with you Leslie. I wasn't sure what to expect either, especially with the way Roadkill ended and Cal getting darker it seemed :( However, I'm pretty happy with the direction Ms Thurman took! It did feel like Blackout was a bit of a transition book, as in she stalled a little bit the overall storyline of the series, but I didn't mind. I just liked seeing the characters being together and how things have changed from the beginning :)

Leslie: This was certainly more character driven than what you might expect from a UF. I agree that Cal was getting darker. There was no doubt that he would have killed Delilah, if it needed, at the end of Roadkill and a small part of him might have enjoyed it. Blackout was like taking a step back, away from that darkness, and letting Cal see another side. So when he did get his memory back, he had something to compare how he really is to what he might have been. And he realized that he needs to be how he is in order to fight all the monsters. Kind of like that saying "It takes a thief to catch a thief". Well, it takes a monster, even half monster, to catch a monster. I do think that Cal's memory loss helped him to accept what he is.

Nath: I agree with you that Cal would have enjoyed it. There's such a fine line between being bad-ass and enjoying killing. It always seemed in the past that Cal had to kill because it was part of his job, he was protecting people or the people he killed were really evil... However, enjoying the killing would be crossing the line and go into evil/psycho. I did wonder what Ms Thurman would do and I got my answer in Blackout :)

And I think you're right about Cal accepting who he is. I thought he's come to terms with it in previous books, but this time, we really have confirmation. In the end, it all comes back to protect the person he cares most for - Niko... and if he needs to be "him" to protect Niko and for Niko to be happy, he will.

By the way, is it me or I didn’t really see the "different" Cal?

Leslie: I did see a different Cal at the beginning than what we are used to. He wasn't so quick with his snarky comments. He might think them but didn't always say them. The New Cal came with a filter where the Original Cal just said whatever was on his mind. New Cal didn't seem as pessimistic either. And can you imagine Old Cal wearing a gingham apron? LOL

The New Cal had a very black and white view of things. The monster killing for instance. He killed monsters, monsters are bad therefore he was good. Then Niko and Goodfellow (monster) show up and suddenly things begin to have shades of gray. I think so much of it was due to confusion - waking up the way he did, surrounded by giant spiders. Then to find out that monsters are real and he kills them. It was a lot to take in. But I did like getting this different perspective from Cal. He's like the Cal that might have been had normal ever been part of his world.

Nath: I don't know, those were all very small changes to me. As a whole, besides the monster part, I didn't feel like there was much difference. Perhaps it’s because I’m not an attentive reader enough. Although true, Old Cal would never have worn that apron. Black maybe, but not blue :P And there would have been a lot of complaining and comments as a result LOL.

But to get back to what you were saying, I thought Cal’s thinking process being black and white was very natural. Not knowing that you're a monster, well it does lend to "monsters being bad/evil" ^_^; And you're absolutely right, this would have been the Cal if he hadn't known that monsters existed. At the same time, given everything he went through in his life, if he had a choice, I think Cal would choose the Old Cal.

You know, what bothered me was everyone saying Cal is so "evil/bad." I've never gotten that feeling. I mean, given his circumstances, the way her grew up, I don't consider his badass-ness, his monster killing job as evil. Even killing bad humans... Of course, this is fiction. In real life, it'd be different...

Leslie: Everyone saying Cal is evil, you mean all the other supernatural beings? I think that comes from the Auphes' reputation and that they can either smell or sense the Auphe in him. I don't think Niko, Goodfellow or Promise think Cal is evil. I think Delilah was turned on by it - by what she perceived as Cal's potential for being bad since she looks down on humans.

Nath: Oh, I’m sure that Niko, Robin and Promise don’t think that Cal is evil, but all the other supernatural beings. Even Isiah, when Cal asked! I understand that the Auphe has a reputation, but it seemed to me some should know better. Yes, Cal is bad-ass... but evil or bad? It seems to me the way he’d rid the world of some threats, people should be grateful instead!

Leslie: I think with the Auphe always being a part of him, Cal will always have that potential for being evil. I think that's one of the things that drove Niko to do what he did in deceiving Cal.

Nath: Speaking of which, what did you think of the deception? Cal is such a lucky guy that no matter what the circumstances, Niko will always have Cal’s best interests in mind. The loyalty and dedication of Niko towards Cal makes him an amazing man. Because let’s face it, while Cal would have been happy, Niko would have been miserable and it would have ruined his whole life. You know how love always triumphs? Well this time, it was brotherhood and I was glad for it :)

Leslie: Niko was in so much pain in this one. Such a hard decision to make - keep the new Cal by deceiving his brother or let the old Cal come back with all that Auphe baggage? If there was ever any doubt, Blackout showed how Cal is the focal point of Niko's life and that everything and everyone else will always come in second in his eyes - even Promise. I think it killed Niko to be so dishonest but at the same time, he didn't feel like he had a choice. Very hard for our Zen loving Ninja to do.

Nath: Nod nod. I guess Niko is worried about a repeat from Nightshade... because I'm sure that if Cal ever cross the line of evilness, Niko will be there to stop him. It was a very hard decision for Niko and it seemed it added to his burden. Sigh.

Leslie: Turning the table around, what did you think of Cal's reaction to Niko? Calling him Leandros instead of Niko I'm guessing was a way to keep his distance until he felt he could trust Niko. I did like that Cal didn't go willingly with Niko and Robin. Especially considering how he felt about Robin - how many times did he try stabbing him with a fork? LOL Cal was funny, being so proud that he still had that fork up his sleeve after Niko took his knife so easily. :)

Nath: Seriously, my heart really broke for Niko in this book! Niko must have felt so sad and depressed and it must have killed him every time Cal called him Leandros. Because that’s the proof he had lost his younger brother... and still, Niko went ahead with the deception. Sigh. Then again, I think it wa's normal that Cal did not rust Niko and Robin so easily. It simply isn’t in his nature.

By the way, I loved, loved Robin in this book. Not only for the comedic moments LOL, but for his friendship with Cal and Niko. For being there for both brothers and for not choosing sides!

Leslie: Goodfellow - good grief! Between the "Sorry, I'm in a monogamous relationship, here's the suicide hotline number" to the dang feathers everywhere, LOL he added his unique perspective on the situation. I love how Goodfellow and Ishiah's relationship has developed. And Cal's embarrassment about it. LOL But what is with the feathers? Does Ishiah molt when he's in love or maybe it's something about being with Goodfellow? Yeah, it's probably a Goodfellow effect. *snort* You mention how Robin didn't take sides with Niko or Cal which I thought was another example of how far Robin's relationship with Niko and Cal has come. Early on, I would have said that Robin would side with Niko in just about anything but now, it's become a much more balanced relationship between Robin and the brothers.

Nath: Oh I'm so happy for Goodfellow and Ishiah as well. I think that those two deserve to be happy :) LOL, maybe he just like to have sex with his wings on... LOL. I am so looking forward to Robin's revenge on Cal. I think it's going to be epic LOL.

You think Robin would have sided with Niko over Cal in the beginning? I don't know. For some reasons, I always felt that there was a camaraderie between Cal and Robin that was very strong, perhaps from them being supernatural beings. In the very beginning, perhaps Robin would have sided with Niko - but that was because Niko reminded him of Ishiah. However, ever since Ishiah has been in the picture, that's been taken off the table. Instead, it seems to me Robin and Cal have a stronger bond - hanging out together, being stupid together LOL.

Leslie: I'm getting such a visual after reading your "sex with wings on" comment! Good thing Robin's apartment is big. Lots of room so they can spread out. LOL Oh, I can't wait for the revenge. With Robin, you know it will be something sexual. ;)

Nath: LOL, well don't you think so? I'm thinking it's like when you shake a tree, leaves fall... but in this case, it's feathers :D

Leslie: "When you shake a tree, leaves fall" with Ishiah the tree and Goodfellow doing the shaking. LOL You're killing me here with these visuals Nath! : )

I think in the beginning Robin would have sided with Niko because Niko isn't as rash as Cal in his actions. He thinks things through and weighs the actions with the consequences. Plus the Ishiah influence that you mentioned. But now, Robin has built up a trust with Cal, enough I think to trust Cal's instincts. In a way, Niko is the big brother/parent to both Robin and Cal when it comes to them getting into trouble and "being stupid" as you said. And we know they can be really stupid. Hello - who helped Cal loose his virginity? And didn't that turn out well.

Nath: I still feel that from the beginning, there was a complicity between Robin and Cal, an understanding. Something along the lines of supernatural beings sticking together... but also, they are simply closer in personality.

Another character I want to mention, Delilah.

Leslie: Delilah, talk about power trip! I know she always put herself first, then pack but I thought she at least cared a little about Cal. Now, she seems even colder, meaner than she did in Roadkill.

Nath: I'm actually glad Ms Thurman took the direction she did. At least, it's clear the line has been drawn and there is no going back for both of them :P And the part where Cal is all "I nailed that?!? I'm awesome!" Classic Cal LOL.

Leslie: I'm glad Delilah's out of the picture. Makes room for Georgie. :) You know I've always wanted Georgie and Cal together, or at least a chance to give it a try. I hope she comes back soon.

That whole "nailed it" comment was the pure, real Cal coming through. LOL

Nath: Ugh, not Georgie!! Unless she's changed a lot.

Leslie: Awe, where the Georgie love? hahaha I know you, and Hils too, are not thrilled with the thought of Georgie and Cal together. I do agree that she needs some maturing but that's what she's been doing while she's been gone right? She's going to come back and be smarter and more mature and her and Cal will fall head over heals in lurv. *snort*

So what did you think about the ending with the half-breeds? Most importantly - did you think the empty cage meant the occupant was dead like Cal thought or escaped? I just find it hard to believe that Cal's the only one left.

Nath: It’s not just a matter of maturity, Leslie. To be Cal’s love interested, II always felt that she needed to be strong, be able to take care of herself and be able to manage Cal’s darkness. That’s why I rooted for Delilah at first, because she could handle Cal. Georgie always seemed a bit too fragile to me. In any case, I guess we're going to find out soon if Cal has a new love interest or not :)

As for the other half-breeds... I’ve always been a bit more like Cal - I never thought of the possibility before. Although, as Niko said, it did make sense that they've tried more than once. Whether it is the end of them or not, well I was ready to accept that there was no more Auphe... so why not half-breeds? But realistically... I guess once again, we'll have to wait and see. If there is one left, then it seems that one perhaps can build portals and that'll be interesting. However, I hope it doesn’t become an habit of Ms Thurman to always bring up half-breeds as obstacles or challenges...

So, final grade?

Leslie: Okay, final grade - I'm going with A-. Really enjoyed this different look at Cal and the "what could have been" but I'm still missing Niko's POV.

Nath: It’s an A- as well for me. I really enjoyed Blackout and I think that emotionally and character-wise, this was really an awesome read. I missed Niko’s POV too and I think it would have made the book even more emotional... but at the same time, perhaps it would have been a bit too maudlin for an UF book? In any case, we’ll never know. Now, all I can do is look forward to Doubletake and wonder what Ms Thurman has in store for us!

New Releases - March 2012

Another new month, another new releases post :) It's amazing how time goes by, but also scary!! I mean, wasn't New Years just yesterday?!? Instead, no, it was Leap Day!

There are definitively some good books coming out this month... but not enough to my taste!! All in all, it seems to me March is going to be a long month ^_^; Can't wait till April LOL. Unless there are books you are looking forward to that we overlooked? In that case, let us know!


March 1

Run from Fear by Jami Alden
published by Grand Central Publishing

With each step she takes, he tracks her every move, waiting for the perfect time. The perfect revenge. Until then, he’ll watch her...

More than anything, Talia Vega wanted to leave behind her harrowing past. Moving 800 miles away, she succeeded . . . until the one man who knows her darkest secrets wanders into the restaurant where she works. Now the agonizing memories come crashing back—along with an undeniable desire for Jack Brooks, the ex-Green Beret who rescued her from a sadistic monster two years ago.

Jack Brooks knows that showing up unannounced is a purely selfish move. Talia doesn’t need his protection anymore, but he can’t get the raven-haired beauty out of his mind. And when a twisted madman is hell-bent on resurrecting her tortuous past, Jack vows to do anything to keep her safe--even risk his own life to save the only woman he’s ever loved.

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Book #3 in trilogy

Nath: I'm actually not sure whether I'll be getting this one, but I have it on my radar. I've been looking for a new romantic suspense author to follow and Ms Alden might be it :) I skimmed through Beg for Mercy and it definitively had potential... Unfortunately, it with its sequel, Hide from Evil, had story themes that I don't really enjoy. Run from Fear sounds more like something I'd enjoy :)


March 6

Fair Game by Patricia Briggs

published by Ace (Berkley)

They say opposites attract. And in the case of werewolves Anna Latham and Charles Cornick, they mate. The son-and enforcer-of the leader of the North American werewolves, Charles is a dominant alpha. While Anna, an omega, has the rare ability to calm others of her kind.

Now that the werewolves have revealed themselves to humans, they can't afford any bad publicity. Infractions that could have been overlooked in the past must now be punished, and the strain of doing his father's dirty work is taking a toll on Charles.

Nevertheless, Charles and Anna are sent to Boston, when the FBI requests the pack's help on a local serial killer case. They quickly realize that not only the last two victims were werewolves-all of them were. Someone is targeting their kind. And now Anna and Charles have put themselves right in the killer's sights...

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Alpha & Omega, Book #3 (related to Mercy Thompson series)

Ames: Ok, I'm living under a rock because I thought this was a Mercy Thompson book. LOL That's ok, I really enjoy Anna and Charles' series and I'm looking forward to this one. I think I may re-read all the previous books though, just to catch up.

Nath: No, no, no!!! It's Anna and Charles' book and damn time it comes out!! LOL. Been waiting so long for it, I just can't wait for my copy!! I love Anna and Charles, can you tell? :) And the books are definitively worth a re-read, Ames :) Definitively one of my favorite UF series.

Monroe: I second Naths comment! Its been TOO LONG since we've heard from this series! Briggs is always an auto buy for me regardless!

Oracle's Moon by Thea Harrison
published by Berkley

As a second daughter, Grace Andreas never had to worry about the intrigues of the Elder Races. But when her sister, Petra, and Petra's husband are both killed, Grace inherits the Power and responsibilities of the Oracle of Louisville, as well as her sister's two young children - neither of which she is prepared for.

Yet, she is not alone. Khalil, Demonkind and Djinn prince of House Marid - driven by his genuine caring for the children - has decided to make himself a part of the household both as their guardian and as an exasperating counterpoint to Grace's impudence toward the Elder Races.

But when an attempt is made on Grace's life, she realizes that Khalil is the only one who can protect her - and offer her more than a mortal man...

Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: The Elder Races, Book #4

Ames: I only read Dragon Bound but am still going to buy this one. LOL  That's how awesome Thea is, she became an auto-buy author with just ONE book.  haha

Nath: I haven't read the third book, but reading the blurb of Oracle's Moon... I just might buy it too :) I like the fact that she was the second daughter, but is now stuck with the responsibilities... And there's children. I think it can be fun :)

Monroe: I too haven't read the third book but I do adore this series! Hmmm...Petra...I may have to skim for that name b/c I'm drawing a blank and the sister. O-well either way SOLD!


Taking a Shot by Jaci Burton

published by Berkley

If you want to score, you have to get in the game...

The last thing Jenna Riley needs is more sports in her life. While her brothers are off being athletic superstars, she's stuck running the family's sports bar, whether she likes it or not. Then in walks pro hockey stud Tyler Anderson. As much as Jenna would like to go to the boards with him, she's vowed to never fall for a jock—even one as hot as Ty.

Ty, intrigued by the beautiful bar owner, becomes a regular. He senses that Jenna wants to do something more with her life. And as he gains her trust, the passion between them grows, as does Ty's insistence that Jenna should start living for herself. With his encouragement, Jenna starts to believe it, too...

But first, Jenna has to figure out what she wants, what she needs, who she loves, and if she has the passion and pride to take a shot at having it all—including Ty...

Genre: Sports romance, contemporary
Series: Play-by-Play series, Book #3

Ames: I have the second book in this series but haven't found it in myself to read it (did not like the heroine's character in the first book). But right from the first, I wanted to read more about Jenna. I'm really looking forward to this one. :P

Nath: I agree with you, Ames. Jenna seems to be such an interesting character, you just want to read her story :) However, I'm a bit skeptical on the hockey aspect... I hope it won't be too present ^_^; Ugh, I'm just not a fan of hockey and it's so hard, since all you hear in Montreal is hockey.

Monroe: I haven't read the second book (man I'm behind on a ton of series) but this new author (to me) is wonderful! The books are steamy with a great story line! I LOVE hockey and MAN LOOK AT THAT COVER!

The Surrender of Miss Fairbourne by Madeline Hunter
published by Berkley

A woman running a prestigious London auction house? Preposterous! But that is exactly what Emma Fairbourne intends to do when her father dies, leaving her the reins of this fabulous enterprise. Of course, she is not addlepated enough to do this openly and scare away her wealthy collectors. So she and her friend concoct a deception, hiring a handsome and charming front man who will do her bidding...

All would have proceeded smoothly—if it weren’t for the maddening interference of Darius, the arrogant Earl of Southwaite, who has been her father’s “silent partner” and now shares ownership of Fairbourne’s. An earl, of course, has no interest in running an auction house—and Darius is certainly not interested in allowing Miss Fairbourne to run it either, her ludicrous scheme notwithstanding. Clearly the business must be sold, especially since Darius suspects that Fairbourne’s has been involved in shady activities that could embroil everyone associated with it in crime and scandal.

But the headstrong Emma is like no other lady he has ever encountered, refusing to follow his dictates. He finds her infuriating, but her direct speaking and lack of artifice create a powerful attraction as well, one that that has him following his inclinations to seduce her into surrendering to him about Fairbourne’s, and in every other way imaginable.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Fairbourne Quartet, Book #1

Nath: Premises sound interesting and refreshing. Ms Hunter is also a solid author. So I think I'm in for a good book )


More Than One Night by Sarah Mayberry

published by Harlequin

From bed to baby to...bliss?

A chance encounter. A steamy night together. That's all Rhys Walker signs on for when Charlotte "Charlie" Long sashays across his path. Sure, maybe he catches a glimpse of forever in her eyes. But the brush-off note the gorgeous brunette leaves the next morning says it all, doesn't it? Time to move on.

Rhys never expects that moving on actually means reconnecting with Charlie. Or that her big news changes everything. Becoming a father now, under these circumstances, never factored into his plans. Yet he's not as upset as he thought. Because now he has the opportunity to explore that glimpse of forever...and turn it into reality.

Genre: Category romance, contemporary
Series: None

Ames: I looove Sarah Mayberry and even baby can't turn me off of this one.

Nath: LOL, I'll let you read it first and then, you let me know :)

Tempted by her Innocent Kiss by Maya Banks
published by Harlequin

No Man’s Bargaining Chip

Devon Carter was her first; now newly wed Ashley wants their passion to last. But her dreams of true love are crushed by the discovery that their marriage is another of Daddy’s business deals. Her strategy: act the part of perfect wife and make Devon love her.

But Devon misses the bubbly, no-holdsbarred woman his wife used to be. Who is this Ashley with the steely demeanor of a society wife? And will he find a way to rekindle the fire in her eyes…especially now that she’s pregnant?

Genre: Category romance, contemporary
Series: Pregnancy & Passion, Book #3

Ames: I admit I already read this one and I really enjoyed it. The hero is a total asshat but it works because this is the kind of storyline I like.

Nath: See, this totally wasn't on my radar... But because you liked it, it is now. You wield a lot of power, Ames ;) I like babies in my books, but pregnancies? Not so much. Still, Ames liked it...

Monroe: Maya Banks = YUM!


Doubletake by Rob Thurman

published by ROC

Everything's relative...

Half-human/half-monster Cal Leandros knows that family is a pain. But now that pain belongs to his half-brother, Niko. Niko’s shady father is in town, and he needs a big favor. Even worse is the reunion being held by the devious Puck race – including the Leandros’ friend, Robin– featuring a lottery that no Puck wants to win.

As Cal tries to keep both Niko and Robin from paying the ultimate price for their kin, a horrific reminder from Cal’s own past arrives to remind him that blood is thicker than water...

And that’s why it’s so much more fun to spill.

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Cal Leandros series, Book #7

Nath: Wooohooo, another Cal Leandros book! Looking forward to it :) And it seems this one will be more focused on Niko and Robin! Can't wait! I hope that means we'll have their POVs. Leslie, Hils, are you in for a buddy review? :P

Crucible of Gold by Naomi Novik
published by ROC

For Laurence and Temeraire, put out to pasture in Australia, it seems their part in the war has come to an end just when they are needed most. Newly allied with the powerful African empire of the Tswana, the French have occupied Spain and brought revolution and bloodshed to Brazil, threatening Britain’s last desperate hope to defeat Napoleon.

So the British government dispatches Arthur Hammond from China to enlist Laurence and Temeraire to negotiate a peace with the angry Tswana, who have besieged the Portuguese royal family in Rio—and as bait, Hammond bears an offer to reinstate Laurence to his former rank and seniority as a captain in the Aerial Corps. Temeraire is delighted by this sudden reversal of fortune, but Laurence is by no means sanguine, knowing from experience that personal honor and duty to one’s country do not always run on parallel tracks.

Laurence and Temeraire—joined by the egotistical fire-breather Iskierka and the still-growing Kulingile, who has already surpassed Temeraire in size—embark for Brazil, only to meet with a string of unmitigated disasters that leave the dragons and their human friends forced to make an unexpected landing in the hostile territory of the Inca empire, where they face new unanticipated dangers.

Now with the success of the mission balanced on a razor’s edge, and failure looking more likely by the minute, the unexpected arrival of an old enemy will tip the scales toward ruin. Yet even in the midst of disaster, opportunity may lurk—for one bold enough to grasp it.

Genre: Fantasy
Series: Temeraire series, Book #7

Nath: I love Temeraire and Laurence, but I admit I haven't read the last couple of releases. Mainly because I find the plots have become a bit confusing... Also, Temeraire has been a bit too preachy, trying to get rights for the dragons. So I might wait till it comes out in paperback... but one day, I'll definitively come back to this series :) Perhaps now that Temeraire and Laurence are no longer fighting for the Crown...

Ames:  I stopped with this series too but may have to pick it up back up.  I really did love this duo.


March 20

Natural Evil by Thea Harrison

published by Samhain Publishing

No blurb available. Only information is: Natural Evil focuses on two totally new characters, Claudia and Luis. The story is a little longer than her latest ebook- True Colors.

Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: The Elder Races, Book #4.5

Ames: Two Thea Harrison books this month! Squeee!

Monroe: What she said! ;) lol


March 27

The Art of Duke Hunting by Sophia Nash
published by Avon 

Six Regency heroes -- One royal hangover
Last night was a blur.
This morning is a shock.
Tonight will be a secret...

The Duke of Norwich has two rules: never marry and never go to sea. So on the morning after the most extravagant royal bachelor party of the century, he is stunned to find himself aboard a storm-tossed ship and locked in the arms of a proper lady.

The Countess of Derby has two rules as well: never give away your heart and never let anyone get in the way of your life's deepest passions. But Esme cannot resist Roman when all seems lost at sea. Yet when their ship returns to London, everything will be forgotten... as long as they can keep their secret from the Prince Regent. For if the future king commands them to marry, all their fondest dreams will be ruined. But where love is concerned, some rules are made to be broken...

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Royal Entourage series, Book #2

Ames: I enjoy Sophia's writing and even though I haven't read the first in this series yet, I'm looking forward to this one. I like sea-faring adventures and this sounds cute.

Nath: Now, I didn't expect this one to take place on the sea! You'd think the setting would suit more the first book given its title, Between the Duke and the Deep Blue Sea, and cover. Ah well, if I enjoy Between the Duke and the Deep Blue Sea, I'll be picking this one up :)


A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare

published by Avon 

When a devilish lord and a bluestocking set off on the road to ruin... Time is not on their side.

Minerva Highwood, one of Spindle Cove’s confirmed spinsters, needs to be in Scotland. Colin Sandhurst, Lord Payne, a rake of the first order, needs to be... anywhere but Spindle Cove.

These unlikely partners have one week
- to fake an elopement
- to convince family and friends they’re in “love”
- to outrun armed robbers
- to survive their worst nightmares
- to travel four hundred miles without killing each other

All while sharing a very small carriage by day and an even smaller bed by night.

What they don’t have time for is their growing attraction. Much less wild passion. And heaven forbid they spend precious hours baring their hearts and souls.

Suddenly one week seems like exactly enough time to find a world of trouble.

And maybe... just maybe... love.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Spindle Cove series, Book #2

Ames: I liked the first book in this series and the novella that followed it. I think this one will be really good.

Nath: I never finished the first book ^_^; It seems Ms Dare's writing and I don't click. Pity because the blurb is so cute :)

At Your Pleasure by Meredith Duran
published by Simon & Schuster

Glittering court socialites and underworld cutpurses agree: Adrian Ferrers, Earl of Rivenham, is the most dangerous man in London. Rivenham will let nothing—not the deepening shadow of war; not the growing darkness within him—interfere with his ambition to restore his family to its former glory. But when tasked by the king to uncover a traitor, he discovers a conspiracy—and a woman whose courage awakens terrible temptations. To save her is to risk everything. To love her might cost his life.

Lady Sarah Percy knows that Rivenham is the devil in beautiful disguise—and that the dark attraction between them is as dangerous as the nightmare in which her family is trapped. But when war breaks out, she has no choice but to place her trust in her dearest enemy—and hope that love does not become the weapon that destroys them both...

Genre: Historical romance
Series: None

Ames: Lots of historicals this month! I like Meredith's writing so yeah, auto-buy!


Taming An Impossible Rogue by Suzanne Enoch

published by St. Martin's Press

One year ago, Lady Camille Pryce left her haughty fiancé at the altar—for good reason. Not only was the marriage arranged before she could even walk, her betrothed was too smug to exert himself to meet her! Now, disowned, with no husband or family to support her, she’s left with one option: go to work in the notorious Tantalus Club...

A gentleman’s gaming house run by a woman, the Tantalus is no place for a proper lady; so, to save face, her jilted fiancé must retrieve her. But banned from the club, he’s forced to employ his ne’er-do-well cousin instead. A handsome, experienced rogue, Keating Blackwood is the perfect man to lure Camille away. But the moment they meet, Keating instead wants to save her... for himself. Impossible? Perhaps. But if Camille can make the ultimate player lay his cards on the table—and risk his heart—all bets are off...

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Scandalous Brides series, Book #2

Nath: This blurb sounds very interesting and I actually click with Ms Enoch's books! I haven't read the first installment... but since when has that stop me from buying and reading books, right? LOL.

Lover Reborn by JR Ward
published by New American Library

In the darkest corners of the night in Caldwell, New York, a conflict like no other rages. The city is home to a band of brothers born to defend their race: the warrior vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Now back in the Brotherhood - and unrecognisable as the vampire leader he once was - Tohrment is physically emaciated and heartbroken beyond despair. When he begins to see his beloved in his dreams - trapped in a cold, isolating netherworld - Tohr turns to a self-serving fallen angel in hopes of saving the one he has lost. When he's told he must learn to love another to free his former mate, Tohr knows they are all doomed...

Except then a female with a shadowed history begins to get through to him. Against the backdrop of the raging war with the lessers, and with a new clan of vampires vying for the Blind King's throne, Tohr struggles between the buried past, and a very hot, passion-filled future... but can his heart let go and set all of them free?

Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood series, Book #10

Ames: Yes, I'm still reading this series. LOL

Monroe: And you NEED to catch up missy!!! lol I've waited (along with MANY others) for Tohr's book to come out since the beginning of the series! I'm UBER excited!!!! EEEEeeeee!!!


Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

published by Plume (Penguin Group)

Beth and Jennifer know their company monitors their office e-mail. But the women still spend all day sending each other messages, gossiping about their coworkers at the newspaper and baring their personal lives like an open book. Jennifer tells Beth everything she can't seem to tell her husband about her anxieties over starting a family. And Beth tells Jennifer everything, period.

When Lincoln applied to be an Internet security officer, he hardly imagined he'd be sifting through other people's inboxes like some sort of electronic Peeping Tom. Lincoln is supposed to turn people in for misusing company e-mail, but he can't quite bring himself to crack down on Beth and Jennifer. He can't help but be entertained-and captivated- by their stories.

But by the time Lincoln realizes he's falling for Beth, it's way too late for him to ever introduce himself. What would he say to her? "Hi, I'm the guy who reads your e-mail, and also, I love you." After a series of close encounters and missed connections, Lincoln decides it's time to muster the courage to follow his heart . . . even if he can't see exactly where it's leading him.

Written with whip-smart precision and charm, Attachments is a strikingly clever and deeply romantic debut about falling in love with the person who makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Even if it's someone you've never met.

Genre: Fiction
Series: None

Ames: Just wanted to mention this one for those who were interested but didn't want to pay hardcover prices. :P This was one of my top reads from 2011. I know I had a copy from the library so I'll be getting myself a paper copy.

Nath: It was also one of my top reads. I second Ames and I think I'll be getting myself a copy as well :)

So that's March!  What are you looking forward to??