Saturday, December 1

New Releases - December 2012

OMG, it's December already!! Where did time go? It's funny how days and sometimes weeks seem to go by slowly, but the next thing you know, the month has gone by! So weird. As usual, we're kicking off the month with a list of new releases that we're looking forward to :) Three things that I noticed for December: 1)  it's being a slow month new releases-wise. There are some, but not that many... I guess it's not completely a bad thing, it means you can budget more money towards gifts and hopefully, the festivities will keep you busy enough not to go in a reading slump ^_^; 2) There's a lot of novellas!! I'm quite surprised by the number actually, but hey, I won't complain. While short, it's still new reading material :) and 3) Wacky release schedule!!! This year, both Christmas and New Year are on a Tuesday, the usual books release day and it seems the publishers couldn't all agree on releasing the books a day before or after. Not that it's going to change a thing - I mean, what are the chances that the books will actually be on the shelves?

Okay, enough babbling :) Here are the books:


December 04

Under the Mistletoe by Jill Shalvis
published by Grand Central Publishing
Just one more kiss

There's no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts-and asking for forgiveness.

Nick grew up without a family of his own so he's overwhelmed by the love that Mia receives from all her relatives, gathered together to celebrate the season. Under their watchful eyes, Nick finds earning back her trust the hardest thing he's ever had to do. If he succeeds, he will receive the greatest gift of all, Mia's love for a lifetime.
Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Lucky Harbor, Book #6.5

Ames:  This is just a novella, and Jill's an autobuy author for me.  :P

Nath: There's a lot of novellas coming out this month. I might get this one eventually, but so far, it's not on my priority list... And Ames, how many Lucky Harbor books have you read? LOL.

Ames:  One...what's your point?  LOL

Nath: None, just curious LOL


A Taste for Scandal by Erin Knightley
published by New American Library (Signet)
A TEMPTING DIVERSION
Things have always fallen into place for Richard Moore, Earl of Raleigh. His good looks, abundance of charm, and the small matter of being heir to a marquisate make him quite the catch. So when a delectable young woman wants nothing to do with him, he can’t help but seize the irresistible challenge.

AN UNLIKELY COURTSHIP
Jane Bunting knows all about responsibility—she has managed to support herself and her brother with their bakery—but she knows nothing of excitement or passion. When dashing Lord Raleigh crosses the threshold of her shop, she has no idea of the potential danger to her reputation…or to her heart.

AN IMPOSSIBLE MATCH
Neither imagined things would go so far—until the night their worlds collide, irrevocably changing both their lives. But when duty calls for Richard, and with everything Jane's worked for suddenly at stake, will their taste for scandal be their downfall?
Genre: Historical romance
Series: Sealed with a Kiss, Book #2

Ames:  I'll wait for your thoughts on this one Nath.

Nath: Okay :) More than a Stranger was a nice debut novel and I did like Richard's character in it... but I have to say, I don't have the urge to pick up this book ASAP... so it might take a while Ames. But it's definitively on my radar for when I'll be in the mood for historical romance :)


The Weird Girls by Cecy Robson
published by New American Library
Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other 20-something girls—with one tiny exception: they're products of a backfired curse that has given each of them unique powers that make them, well, a little weird...

The Wird sisters are different from every race on earth—human and supernatural. When human society is no longer an option for them, they move in among the resident vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region. Could this be the true home they’ve longed for? Um, not quite. After the sisters accidentally strip a witch of her powers in a bar brawl, they soon realize the mistake will cost them. Because to take on a witch means to take on her coven. And losing the battle isn’t an option.
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: The Weird Girls, Book #0.5

Nath: This is a new urban fantasy series that is coming out this month. I thought the premises of the series sounded interesting and fun. I've already pre-ordered the first book, Sealed with a Curse, but I'm excited to check out this novella to have a feel of the author's writing :)


December 11

Your Wicked Heart by Meredith Duran
published by Simon & Schuster
Jilted overseas and abandoned without a penny, Amanda Thomas is desperate to get home. She’ll do whatever it takes to secure a berth on an England-bound ship, even if it means pretending to be the wife of the absentee viscount who jilted her. But when the anchor lifts, she’s not the only impostor on board—for the stranger in her bed claims to be the real Viscount Ripton. Can she trust this devastatingly attractive scoundrel? Or is his offer of friendship only a pretext for seduction...and revenge?
Genre: Historical romance
Series: Rules for the Reckless, Book #0.5

Ames:  I think this one sounds interesting.  I like Meredith Duran's writing and I have given thought to what would happen in old times if you got stranded somewhere without money.  LOL  I know, I think of weird stuff.


December 17

My Bluegrass Baby by Molly Harper
published by Simon & Schuster
Sadie Hutchins loves her job at the Kentucky Tourism Commission. Not only could her co-workers double as the cast of Parks & Recreation, but she loves finding the unusual sites, hidden gems, and just-plain-odd tourist attractions of her home state. She’s a shoo-in for the director’s job when her boss retires at the end of the year...until hotshot Josh Vaughn shows up to challenge her for the position.

Josh is all sophisticated polish while Sadie’s country comfort, and the two have very different ideas of what makes a good campaign. So when their boss pits them against each other in a winner-takes-all contest, they’re both willing to fight dirty if it means getting what they want. But it turns out, what Josh and Sadie want could be each other—and Josh’s kisses are the best Kentucky attraction Sadie’s found yet!
Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: none

Ames:  I LOVE Parks & Recreation and I really enjoy Molly's sense of humor.  I'm really looking forward to this one.

Nath: Thanks for bringing this book up, Ames! I enjoyed Ms Harper's previous foray into contemporary romance, And One Last Thing..., and am looking forward to this one. Plus, isn't it a cute cover?


December 18

Deck the Halls with Love by Lorraine Heath
published by Harpercollins Publisher (Avon)
Christmas is a time for miracles... and second chances at love.

In her dazzling first Season, Lady Meredith Hargreaves gave her heart to Alistair Wakefield, the Marquess of Chetwyn, only to have it shattered when he proposed to another. And now that he's free to pursue her? It matters little, because she's on her way to the altar, heartbreak be damned.

Chetwyn once set aside his dreams in favor of duty and honor. But as Christmas approaches, he is determined to put his own desires first and lure Lady Meredith back into his arms, where she's always belonged.

First he steals a dance; then he steals a kiss. But when they find themselves alone in an abandoned castle during a snowstorm, reignited passion consumes them both. And Chetwyn will have one last chance to steal back Meredith's heart, once and for all.
Genre: Historical romance
Series: The Lost Lords of Pembrook, Book #2.5

Ames:  Awww, this one sounds cute!

Nath: It does, doesn't it? But the main reason I want to read this novella is because Chetwyn appeared in Lord of Temptation and he was such a great character! I was hoping Ms Heath would write his story and well, it didn't take that much time LOL. Hope he's as awesome in Deck the Halls with Love as he was in Lord of Temptation.


Scent of Magic by Maria V. Snyder
published by Harlequin (Mira)
Hunted, Killed—Survived?

As the last Healer in the Fifteen Realms, Avry of Kazan is in a unique position: in the minds of her friends and foes alike, she no longer exists. Despite her need to prevent the megalomanical King Tohon from winning control of the Realms, Avry is also determined to find her sister and repair their estrangement. And she must do it alone, as Kerrick, her partner and sole confident, returns to Alga to summon his country into battle.

Though she should be in hiding, Avry will do whatever she can to support Tohon’s opponents. Including infiltrating a holy army, evading magic sniffers, teaching forest skills to soldiers and figuring out how to stop Tohon’s most horrible creations yet; an army of the walking dead—human and animal alike and nearly impossible to defeat.

War is coming and Avry is alone. Unless she figures out how to do the impossible ... again.
Genre: Fantasy romance
Series: Healer, Book #2

Ames:  What?  How did I miss the first book in this series?

Nath: No idea Ames. I even reviewed it! LOL. Touch of Magic was good, but I was expecting more from Ms Snyder and I hope she delivers with Scent of Magic. An aside, did you know Ames that Ms Snyder was contracted for more books in the Study world, with Yelena and Varek!?! Those books, I'm really looking forward to!

Ames:  Cool!!  I didn't know that!


December 24

The Chocolate Kiss by Laura Florand
published by Kensington
The Heart of Paris

Welcome to La Maison des Sorcieres. Where the window display is an enchanted forest of sweets, a collection of conical hats delights the eye and the habitues nibble chocolate witches from fanciful mismatched china. While in their tiny blue kitchen, Magalie Chaudron and her two aunts stir wishes into bubbling pots of heavenly chocolat chaud.

But no amount of wishing will rid them of interloper Philippe Lyonnais, who has the gall to open one of his world famous pastry shops right down the street. Philippe’s creations seem to hold a magic of their own, drawing crowds of beautiful women to their little isle amidst the Seine, and tempting even Magalie to venture out of her ivory tower and take a chance, a taste... a kiss.

Parisian princesses, chocolate witches, patissier princes and sweet wishes—an enchanting tale of amour et chocolat.
Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: The Parisian Chocolatiers, Book #2

Ames:  Nath really likes this author and indeed, her books sound really cute.

Nath: Ames, you gotta give this series a try :) I think they're fun and very yummy books. I've already read The Chocolate Kiss courtesy of Ms Florand and I just love the chemistry between Magalie and Philippe! I'm definitively going to get my own copy to support the author.


Live and Let Love by Gina Robinson
published by St. Martin's Press
Though Willow Pierce has moved forward since her husband died two years ago, she can’t ignore her sixth sense that Jack is alive.When newcomer Con Russo comes to town, Willow is convinced he’s Jack. She’d never forget his eyes. Willow is determined to learn the truth about Con’s identity—even if it means brazenly seducing him.

Secret agent Jack Pierce was almost killed in an explosion that left him severely disfigured. Thanks to reconstructive surgery, he has a new face and a new life. But when the terrorist who tried to assassinate him suspects he’s still alive, Jack’s forced to go undercover—and destroy him for good. But before he can complete his mission, he must protect the only woman he’s ever loved...
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Agent Ex, Book #3

Nath: I haven't read the second book of the series and I thought the first book was so-so, but every time Ms Robinson has a new release, I can't help but put it on my radar ^_^; Combination of fun covers and the genre,  I think. I might pick up this one... still undecided.


A Breath of Scandal by Elizabeth Essex
published by St. Martin's Press
Forced by her family into an engagement with a man she can never abide, Antigone Preston knows only a scandal will save her from a loveless marriage. But knocking a man down to the ballroom floor with her fists brings dangerous consequences. She may have ruined her reputation, but now she’s endangered her heart… The son of an earl and a career navy man, Captain William Jellicoe has no interest in the frivolities of London—and even less in the institution of marriage. But there’s something steering him toward Antigone. He has never met anyone as brazen and unconventional as…himself. But will he risk it all for a woman who still has the breath of scandal hot on her lips?
Genre: Historical romance
Series: Reckless Brides, Book #2

Ames:  Nath and I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Almost a Scandal.  So although Antigone (love that name, btw!) doesn't don men's clothing, I still want to read this one.  :P

Nath: Ames, I think this one is going to be fun! The blurb sure sounds interesting... and I'm excited to see William all grown up! I hope Sarah and Col make a small appearance.


Crimson Frost by Jennifer Estep
published by Kensington
For a moment, a face flashed before my eyes—the most hideous face I’d ever seen. No matter how hard I tried to forget what had happened, I saw him everywhere I went. It was Loki—the evil god that I’d helped set free against my will.

I should have known that my first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. If we’d gotten into a swordfight, or been ambushed by Reapers, I’d have been more prepared. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? I didn’t see that one coming.

I’ve been accused of purposely helping the Reapers free Loki from his prison—and the person leading the charge against me is Linus Quinn, Logan’s dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks I’m guilty. If I’m going to get out of this mess alive, I’ll have to do it myself...
Genre: YA, paranormal
Series: Mythos Academy, Book #4

Nath: Fourth book in the Mythos Academy series already! Logan and Gwen are finally together and I hope that means we can now focus on the storyline. Going to pick this up because I want to support Ms Estep and if Crimson Frost wows me, well good :)


December 26

The Lady Most Willing... by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Connie Brockway
published by Harpercollins Publisher (Avon)
Step into the glittering world of Regency and prepare to have your hearts warmed by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Connie Brockway...

During their annual Christmas pilgrimage to Scotland to visit their aged uncle in his decrepit castle, the Comte de Rocheforte and his cousin, Earl of Oakley, are presented with unique gifts: their uncle has raided an English lord's Christmas party and kidnapped four lovely would-be brides for his heirs to choose from ...as well as one very angry duke, Lord Bretton. As snow isolates the castle, and as hours grow into days, the most honourable intentions give away to temptations as surprising as they are irresistible.
Genre: Historical romance
Series: none

Ames:  I enjoy all of these authors so I'll be checking this one out.

Nath: These are definitively three great authors... However I read The Lady Most Likely... and I think it would have been more fun if it was all one story instead of three separate ones. I wonder if the format will be the same for The Lady Most Willing... If it is, I think I'm going to wait for reviews.


December 31

Chance of a Lifetime by Jodi Thomas
published by Berkley
Emily, the local librarian, has started a writing group, but as the group stumbles through both the fiction and reality of their lives, they’re learning much more than how to write. But Emily suddenly has other things on her mind when a friend from her past shows up in Harmony's library. Now she must deal with a secret she’s kept for fifteen years—a secret that changed her life and threatens to shatter her future.

Meanwhile, new lawyer Rick Matheson thinks he’s in charge of his world until accidents start happening all around him. Just when he realizes someone is trying to kill him, he meets a beautiful U.S. Marshal named Trace Adam. Now that the marshal has given him an even stronger reason to go on living, he must learn to take a chance on life to dream bigger—and love better—than he ever has before...
Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Harmony, Book #5

Nath: I love, love, love this series, the author and her writing. There's not a single doubt I'm picking this up :) Can't wait to be back in Harmony!


The Seduction of Elliot McBride by Jennifer Ashley
published by Berkley
Properly improper... and daring to love...

Juliana St. John was raised to be very proper. After a long engagement, her wedding day dawns—only for Juliana to find herself jilted at the altar.

Fleeing the mocking crowd, she stumbles upon Elliot McBride, the tall, passionate Scot who was her first love. His teasing manner gives her an idea, and she asks Elliot to save her from an uncertain future—by marrying her...

After escaping brutal imprisonment, Elliot has returned to Scotland a vastly wealthy yet tormented man. Now Juliana has her hands full restoring his half-ruined manor in the Scottish Highlands and trying to repair the broken heart of the man some call irredeemably mad. Though beautiful and spirited, Juliana wonders if that will be enough to win a second chance at love.
Genre: Historical romance
Series: Highland Pleasures, Book #5

Ames: ...yeah...not caught up on this series yet.  LOL  But of course I still want this one!

Nath: I still haven't read the last book... Not sure I'll be getting this one ^_^; But I know a ton of people who loves these McBride men!


A Taste of Ice by Hanna Martine
published by Berkley
There is an untapped world of magic that any man would covet...

Five years ago, Xavier escaped from the Ofarian Plant. Today he calls a Colorado mountain town home. It’s there he buries himself in his work, swearing off magic and relationships—until a woman threatens every promise he’s made to himself.

Cat has always known she is different. Water speaks to her on an uncanny level, and she channels this gift into beautiful painted waterscapes. Now, a gallery is debuting her work in Colorado—and it’ll reveal far more about her than she imagined.

The spark between Cat and Xavier is enough to throw both of them off balance. Every tantalizing moment sends them dangerously close to a rising flood of desire. Dangerous because Xavier comes to suspect that Cat is an Ofarian—his people’s enemy. But they’re both about to discover a far greater, more malicious power at play...
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: The Elementals, Book #2

Ames:  I know the first book got good reviews, so I bought it, just haven't had the time to read it yet.  So this one is on my radar.

Nath: Same thing with me, Ames. This sounds like something I would like, a mix of psychics/witches with power over elements. Definitively going to give this one or the first book, Liquid Lies, a try.


Sealed with a Curse by Ceci Robson
published by New American Library
Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other 20-something girls—with one tiny exception: they're products of a backfired curse that has given each of them unique powers that make them, well, weird...

The Wird sisters are content to avoid the local vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region—until one of them blows up a vampire in self-defense. Everyone knows vampires aren't aggressive, and killing one is punishable by death. But soon more bloodlust-fueled attacks occur, and the community wonders: are the vampires of Tahoe cursed with a plague?

Celia reluctantly agrees to help Misha, the handsome leader of an infected vampire family. But Aric, the head of the werewolf pack determined to destroy Misha's family to keep the region safe, warns Celia to stay out of the fight. Caught between two hot alphas, Celia must find a way to please everyone, save everyone, and oh yeah, not lose her heart to the wrong guy—or die a miserable death. Because now that the evil behind the plague knows who Celia is, it’s coming for her and her sisters. This Wird girl has never had it so tough.
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: The Weird Girls, Book #1

Nath: As I mentioned above, the blurb and the cover of this book caught my eyes. It sounds fun and refreshing, which is always a plus. Also, I'm always on the look-out for new urban fantasy series :) I really hope this turns out to be good!


Forbidden by Kelley Armstrong
published by Subterranean Press
The team-spirit sign by the side of the highway seems a good omen to loner Morgan Walsh, as he drives to what could be the most important visit of his life — a chance to join the North American Pack. Then he wakes naked in the woods, surrounded by wolf tracks and a ring of suspicious cops. The situation only gets worse when he’s bailed out by Alpha-elect Elena Michaels and Clayton Danvers, her terrifying enforcer and mate.

Disappointed that such a promising young werewolf risked exposing them, Elena isn’t expecting anything from the pesky retrieval job except some much-needed alone time with Clay. Instead, she finds a different kind of evil stalking the streets and forests of Westwood, New York. Trapped in town by a snowstorm and sabotage, Elena, Clay and Morgan must find the mysterious threat before it sets its sights on them.
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Women of the Otherworld/Otherworld series, Book #?

Nath: It's Kelley Armstrong, part of her Otherworld series and it has the Pack. Need I say more? I've been curious about Morgan's character for a while and would love to re-visit the Pack, so this is a no-brainer... but that cover? That would probably give pause to any new readers ^_^;

***
What do you think? Is there any books that we missed? Are you expecting to get any of these as Christmas gifts? :)