Happy New Year!!
So now that a new year has begun, did anyone make any new year's resolutions? Because if you resolved to buy fewer books, we will not be helping you out with that. LOL Here are the books Nath and I are looking forward to this month.
January 1
Published by Simon Pulse
Rae's always dreamed of dating a guy like Nathan. He’s nothing like her abusive stepfather—in other words, he’s sweet. But the closer they get, the more Nathan wants of her time, of her love, of her...and the less she wants to give.Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
As Rae’s affection for Nathan turns to fear, she leans on her friend Leo for support. With Leo, she feels lighter, happier. And possessive Nathan becomes jealous.
Then a tragedy lands Rae in the ICU. Now, hovering between life and death, Rae must find the light amid the darkness…and the strength to fight for life and the love she deserves.
Series: n/a
Ames: This book sounds dark and intense. But sounds like friends falling for each other, so of course I'm all over that.
Published by Ballantine Books
Lizette Henry wakes up one morning and doesn't recognise the reflection staring back at her in the mirror. She isn't suffering from amnesia; she remembers who she is, what she did the day before, her parents, where she grew up - everything. But who she is, is not who she sees. Alarmed, she begins searching her house for something - anything - that will match what she remembers. There is nothing. And yet there is nothing in her life that seems abnormal, except herself. She could be crazy, but her instincts are telling her this isn't the case. Some women might make an appointment with a psychiatrist, but Zette isn't 'some women.' Deep inside she knows she isn't the face in the mirror, and that she has to find out the truth, before it's too late.Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: n/a
Nath: It's been a while since I read a new book by Ms Howard. I have this one on my radar because it sounds a lot like her older books. Still, I'll be waiting for reviews before picking it up.
Ames: I haven't read a Linda Howard in a looong time and yes this does sound like one of her older books, but to me that doesn't seem like a good thing.
January 02
Published by Harlequin SuperRomance
The best thing between Oliver Barrett and Mackenzie Williams is a fence. Ever since Oliver's new-neighbor gestures were met with unfriendly responses, he's decided to keep his distance. After all, he's in this seaside town to get his life on track again. That doesn't include working hard to get on Mackenzie's good side—no matter how intriguing she may be.His intentions are put to the test, however, when his dog becomes infatuated with hers. The two crafty canines do their best to break down the barriers between the properties. And where the dogs go…well, the humans must follow! It doesn't take long for a powerful attraction to build between Oliver and Mackenzie. They soon discover that the worst of first impressions can lead to the best possible outcomes….Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: n/a
Nath: It's Sarah Mayberry, I think it says it all right? LOL. She has become one of my favorite category romance authors and is now an auto-buy author as well :)
Ames: Sarah is an auto-buy author for me as well. This one sounds extra cute because of the dogs. :P
Published by Signet
He was used to getting what he wanted. And what he wanted was her. As an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist, Dillon Slater had one of the most dangerous jobs in the military. Now, he’s enjoying the pace of life in Shelter Bay, where he teaches high school physics. He still gets to blow things up, but as the school basketball coach he also gets to impart leadership skills. His latest minefield: fifteen-year-old Matt Templeton—and Matt’s irresistible mother...Genre: Contemporary Romance
Claire Templeton moved her troubled teenage son to the small town of Shelter Bay to escape the bad influences at his school in L.A. But when his attitude earns her a visit from the handsome basketball coach, she wonders if this role model might be too much of a temptation—for her. Because though she isn’t looking for a relationship, she can’t seem to resist Dillon’s playful charm. But what she doesn’t realize is that Dillon isn’t playing games—he’s playing for keeps...
Series: Shelter Bay #5
Nath: I haven't kept up with this series, but I might pick up Sea Glass Winter if Ames likes it enough :) I like heroes that go after what they want, but I don't know, the way it's being phrased in the blurb, it sounds a bit too aggressive ^_^;
Ames: I actually don't like the sound of this one! And this time it's because of the son. Described as a troubled teenager...I'm sorry but I deal with them all day long in my line of work and I don't want to read about them in my free time. Not right now anyway. But I'll keep an eye out for reviews.
Published by Harlequin
Larkville hero comes home!Genre: Contemporary Romance
Returning Special Forces soldier Nate Calhoun is struggling to adjust to small-town life. It's a relief to get back to the bunkhouse with only his memories and a bottle of bourbon for company.
Only Sarah Anderson can see straight through Nate's surly exterior to his pain. As childhood sweethearts they were inseparable—until he left, shattering her heart.
But hanging out like they used to—racing horses and shooting the breeze on the ranch—they begin to see that there really might be that spark still between them...
Series: The Larkville Legacy
Nath: I've been meaning to try Ms Lane and I did so last month... it didn't go that well ^_^; However, I'm not giving up. This one sounds really cute :)
January 08
Published by Dutton
When sheltered American good girl Allyson "LuLu" Healey first meets laid-back Dutch actor Willem De Ruiter at an underground performance of Twelfth Night in England, there’s an undeniable spark. After just one day together, that spark bursts into a flame, or so it seems to Allyson, until the following morning, when she wakes up after a whirlwind day in Paris to discover that Willem has left. Over the next year, Allyson embarks on a journey to come to terms with the narrow confines of her life, and through Shakespeare, travel, and a quest for her almost-true-love, to break free of those confines.Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
Series: Just One Day, Book #1
Nath: This one sounds interesting! I enjoyed her previous duology and am looking forward to this new one! The only reason why I might wait before getting Just One Day is that I'll be waiting for the second book, Just One Year, so I get the whole story at once :)
Ames: I haven't read Gayle's other books but I have them in the tbr pile. This one sounds interesting! I will keep an eye out for it.
Published by Orbit
Condemned as a murderer for killing the man who dishonored his sister, Blaine "Mick" McFadden has spent the last six years in Velant, a penal colony in the frigid northern wastelands of Edgeland. Harsh military discipline and the oppressive magic of the governor's mages keep a fragile peace as colonists struggle against a hostile environment. But the supply ships from Dondareth have stopped coming, boding ill for the kingdom that banished the colonists.Genre: Fantasy
Now, McFadden and the people of Velant decide their fate. They can remain in their icy prison, removed from the devastation of the outside world, but facing a subsistence-level existence, or they can return to the ruins of the kingdom that they once called home. Either way, destruction lies ahead...
Series: Ascendant Kingdoms, Book #1
Nath: Okay, not the nicest cover ever ^_^;; However, you don't judge a book by it right? Once again, I'm not sure I'll be picking this one up, but it's on my radar if I want something different as I've read and enjoyed Ms Martin's writing before.
Published by Carina Press
Barista Jen Hanby's coworkers give her a hard time for bringing coffee and pastries to a homeless man who sits outside her café—but she has a secret. The scruffy man is her father.Genre: Mystery
She's also hiding the little matter of why her palm itches. But how can she explain that her hand has a mind of its own and writes messages from the beyond? Right. That'll get her Employee of the Month.
When she finds herself scrawling your boyfriend is cheating on you! to herself on the bathroom mirror, she immediately dumps the guy. But then his little fling—who just happens to be her half sister—turns up dead, and suddenly Jen's homeless father is the prime suspect.
Jen knows he is being framed and must take matters into her own hands to protect him. But will anyone believe that the crazy old man is innocent? Or that his spirit-writing daughter holds the truth?
Series: n/a
Nath: This one caught my attention over on Kay's blog. I like the cover and the story sounds interesting. I think I'll be checking it out, especially if it's mystery or romantic suspense.
Ames: Wow!! That blurb sounds very very interesting! Now I'm going to keep an eye out for it too. :P
January 15
Unforgiveable by Joanna Chambers
Published by Samhain
A notorious rake is about to make the ultimate faux pas—fall in love with his own wife.Genre: Historical Romance
Gil Truman has eyes only for the beautiful Tilly—until he is forced to marry plain, sickly Rose Davenport to reclaim the lands his father foolishly gambled away. After a disastrous wedding night tainted with his bitterness, he deposits Rose at his remote Northumbrian estate, soothing his guilt with the thought that she need never lay eyes on him again.
Five years after the mortifying wedding night that destroyed all her romantic fantasies, Rose is fed up with hearing second- and third-hand reports of Gil’s philandering ways. She is no longer the shy, homely girl he left behind, but a strong, confident woman who knows how to run an estate. And knows what she wants—her husband, back in their marriage bed.
Gil doesn’t recognize the bold, flirtatious woman he meets at a ball, with or without her mask. Yet he is bewitched and besotted, and their night together is the most passionate he has ever known.
But when he confesses his sins to the beautiful stranger, the truth rips open the old wounds of their blighted history. Threatening any hope of a future together.
Series: n/a
Nath: Oh, another book that sounds interesting! Thanks Ames for bringing it up! I always like it when rakes fall in love with their wives LOL. Not sure though it was a good idea of Rose to not tell him it was her, but we'll see how it turns out! :)
Ames: I love stories like this, and I really liked Joanna's other book, The Lady's Secret.
January 21
Published by Carina Press
Josh Kowalski is tired of holding down the fort—better known as the Northern Star Lodge—while his siblings are off living their dreams. Now that his oldest brother has returned to Whitford, Maine for good, Josh is free to chase some dreams of his own.Genre: Contemporary Romance
As the daughter of the lodge's longtime housekeeper, Katie Davis grew up alongside the Kowalski kids. Though she's always been "one of the guys", her feelings for Josh are anything but sisterly. And after a hot late-night encounter in the kitchen, it's clear Josh finally sees her as the woman she is.
Katie's been waiting years for Josh to notice her, but now that he has, she's afraid it's too late. Giving her heart to a man who can't wait to leave town is one sure way to have it broken. But Josh keeps coming up with excuses not to leave—could it be that everything he's ever wanted is closer than he could have imagined?
Series: Kowalski Family, Book #6
Nath: If I pick this one up is because Katie is a tomboy. Otherwise, not sure I liked Josh that much from what I read in All He Ever Needed.
Ames: I hate when I'm so far behind on a series. I should try and read this series because this one sounds cute!
Published by Pocket Star
Kasie knows who she’s supposed to be. But one passionate night with a mysterious stranger will teach her who she wants to be. You should sleep with a stranger, her best friend whispers in her ear as they take to Vegas for one last pre-wedding fling. Despite her best intentions, when Kasie Fitzgerald enters the casino and sees him, a man whose tailored clothes belied a powerful, even dangerous, presence, she loses herself to the moment. Maybe it’s the dress, much shorter than she’d ever normally wear, or the Scotch, but something makes her give herself over to him more completely than she's ever done with a man before.Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance
It was supposed to be just one night. But right as she’s thinking she wants more, he shows up in her office with an agenda. As the billionaire CEO of a company that’s engaged her PR firm, his demands just became her reality...and he desires so much more than just some attention in the boardroom.
Series: Just One Night, Book #1
Ames: I can't seem to stay away from serials...and here's a prime example. Even though Kasie cheats on her fiance something about this appeals to me. I'm sick in the head. And I cannot get enough of rich businessmen. LOL
January 29
Published by Zebra
For Winfield Elliott, Viscount Stillwell, finding a prospective bride always seemed easy. Perhaps too easy. With three broken engagements to his name, Win is the subject of endless gossip. Yet his current mission is quite noble: to hire a company to repair his family’s fire-damaged country house. Nothing disreputable in that—until the firm’s representative turns out to be a very desirable widow. Lady Miranda Garrett expected a man of Win’s reputation to be flirtatious, even charming. But the awkward truth is that she finds him thoroughly irresistible. While Miranda resides at Millworth to oversee the work, Win occupies her days, her dreams…and soon, her bed. For the first time, the wicked Win has fallen in love. And what began as a scandalous proposition may yet become a very different proposal…Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Millworth Manor, Book #1
Nath: I can't wait for this one!!! I loved Winfield's character in What Happens at Christmas and that little e-novella relating his three engagements, Lord Stillwell's Excellent Engagements, was great in my opinion :) Plus, the heroine is from the Hadley-Attwater clan and I'm happy to revisit them :) This is really the book that is going to make my month :)
Ames: Nath, after you introduced me to Alexander's writing with What a Lady Wants, I am definitely interested in reading more! And this one sounds like it'll be good!
Published by Ace
Vivian’s life is finally on track. She has a job she loves as an ER doctor and has just met – literally – the man of her dreams. But when her eccentric grandfather is murdered and designates her as his next of kin, she discovers that she is the last of a race of beings known as dreamshifters. It is her task to guard the doorways between waking and dreaming, which have already begun to unravel, spilling dangerous creatures from dream into the waking world. When she sets out to close the open doors and protect her town and the people she loves, Vivian confronts dragons, intrigue, and the dark secrets of her own family history. In the end she comes face to face with a sorceress seeking eternal life and ultimate power. Vivian must find a way to stop her, or reality will be forever altered.Genre: Fantasy
Series: n/a
Nath: This one sounds interesting :) I like that Vivian is an ER doctor and the whole legacy that she is not aware. Not sure I love the dreamshifters part of the storyline though... but who knows, I might be surprised! :)
Published by Avon
Lady Philippa Marbury is odd. The bespectacled, brilliant fourth daughter of the Marquess of Needham and Dolby cares more for books than balls, flora than fashion and science than the season. Nearly engaged to Lord Castleton, Pippa wants to explore the scandalous parts of London she's never seen before marriage. And she knows just who to ask: the tall, charming, quick-witted bookkeeper of The Fallen Angel, London's most notorious and coveted gaming hell, known only as Cross.Genre: Historical Romance
Like any good scientist, Pippa's done her research and Cross's reputation makes him perfect for her scheme. She wants science without emotion - the experience of ruination without the repercussions of ruination. And who better to provide her with the experience than this legendary man? But when this odd, unexpected female propositions Cross, it's more than tempting... and it will take everything he has to resist following his instincts - and giving the lady precisely what she wants.
Series: The Rules of Scoundrels, Book #2
Nath: I haven't read Ms MacLean in a while, but since there's so little releases this month, I might pick this one up :) And the characters in this one sound interesting :)
Ames: This actually sounds similar to Kleypas' Dreaming of You. But that's a good thing! I like unconventional heroes and heroines, especially in romance. And a bookish gal is my favourite.
Published by Pocket
For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different--until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan. CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike's team--which included her husband--in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she's determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn't trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can't live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: One Eyed Jacks, Book #1
Nath: I've been in the mood for romantic suspense lately and am really having a tough time finding books to read. I know Ms Gerard is a favorite of Leslie, which is why this book ended up on my radar. The thing is, I'd like my RS reads to be more geared towards investigation and therefore cops or FBI agents or even Interpol, instead of action and military or ex-military characters which seem to be all the rage right now.
Published by Pocket
When a wicked widow meets a sexy doctor, sparks fly in this sizzling and evocative Regency romance.Genre: Historical Romance
In the social whirl of Regency England, Elizabeth Chudderley is at the top of every guest list, the life of every party, and the belle of every ball. But her friends and admirers would be stunned to know the truth: that the merriest widow in London is also the loneliest. Behind the gaiety and smiles lies a secret longing—for something, or someone, to whisk her away.
Raised in scandal, Lord Michael de Grey is convinced that love is a losing gamble—and seduction the only game worth playing. But when duty threatens to trump everything he desires, the only way out is marriage to a woman of his brother’s choosing. Elizabeth Chudderley is delightful, delicious—and distressingly attractive. With such a captivating opponent, Michael isn’t quite sure who is winning the game. How can such passionate players negotiate a marriage of necessity—when their hearts have needs of their own?
Series: Rules for the Reckless, Book #1
Nath: I've read several Ms Duran's novels and my conclusion is her style just doesn't match my taste... but I keep hoping ^_^; I'll wait for reviews for this one and hopefully, who knows?
Ames: I like Duran's writing so I'll let you know what I think of this one, Nath. :P
Published by Forever (Grand Central Publishing)
Some rules simply beg to be broken...Genre: Historical Romance
A dressmaker in London's busiest shop, Miss Anabelle Honeycote overhears the ton's steamiest secrets—and (occasionally) uses them to her advantage. It isn't something she's proud of, but the reluctant blackmailer needs the money to care for her gravely ill mother. To make up for her misdeeds, Anabelle keeps to a firm set of rules:
• Never request payment from someone who cannot afford it.
• Never reveal the secrets of a paying client.
• Never enter into any form of social interaction with a client.
Her list keeps her (somewhat) honest—until she encounters Owen Sherbourne, the Duke of Huntford. Not only does Owen nip Anabelle's extortion plans in the bud, the devilishly handsome Duke soon has the sexy seamstress dreaming of more than silks and satins. With Owen, Anabelle enjoys pleasures she never imagined...until a scandal from the past resurfaces. Now her rules could mean his family's ruin. Owen's searing kisses carry the promise of passion, but how will he react when Anabelle's most devastating secret is finally revealed?
Series: Honeycote, Book #1
Nath: If I remember correctly, When She Was Wicked is a debut novel. The blurb sounds interesting and I'm always looking for new authors :) So this one is on my list to buy...
Published by Pocket
Maximillian Burke has always prided himself on being the man every mother would want her daughter to marry. But after his scoundrel of a brother makes off with Max’s bride, Max discovers it’s more satisfying to be a rogue than the perfect gentleman. Forced to flee London after a duel gone wrong, he seeks refuge at Cadgwyck Manor on the lonely coast of Cornwall, a place as wild and savage as his current temper. The tumbledown manor comes complete with its own ghost, but oddly enough, it’s not the White Lady of Cadgwyck who haunts Max’s heated dreams—but his no-nonsense housekeeper.Genre: Historical Romance
The last thing housekeeper Anne Spencer needs is a new master, especially one as brooding and gorgeous as the Earl of Dravenwood. Even as she schemes to be rid of her new employer, she finds herself irresistibly drawn into his strong, muscular arms. When Max vows to solve the mystery of Cadgwyck’s ghost, he doesn’t realize it will put both of their hearts at risk and tempt them to surrender to a pleasure as delicious as it is dangerous.
Series: n/a
Nath: Been a while since I last read a book by Ms Medeiros. Actually, it's not true, I read Goodnight Tweetheart. So it's been a while since I last read a historical book by Ms Medeiros. Mostly because I prefer regency and lately, her books have been about highlands characters... Anyway, this one sounds good :)
Ames: I'm not a fan of ghosts, but I like that she's a housekeeper and she's trying to drive Max away. That'll lead to some fun hijinks I think.
Published by St. Martins
Lady Madeline Essex is the last of the unwed “ducklings” in her family—and by far the most outspoken. But when she boldly enters London’s most notorious gaming house in search of fodder for her novel, even her sharp tongue can’t save her from the horrible crime she stumbles upon there. As luck would have it, first on the scene is the last man she wants to see her vulnerable. The one man who could tempt her heart...Genre: Historical Romance
Christian Monteith, the new Earl of Gresham, isn’t much for card rooms and gaming hells. But as a favor to his former commanding officer, he's investigating a gamester for espionage on the night that Maddie ventures in looking more enticing than he's ever seen her. Suddenly, his feelings for his friend aren't so friendly anymore. And when her curiosity brings the impetuous novelist to the attention of a madman, Christian will stop at nothing to protect her—from a sinister plot that is far more dangerous than any stolen kiss…
Series: Ugly Ducklings, Book #3
Ames: Another gaming hell and another bookish heroine. Also sounds like a friends to lovers. Woot woot!
Published by HarperTeen
Bonnie and Clyde meets IF I STAY in this addictively heart-wrenching story of two desperate teenagers on the run from their pasts.Genre: Contemporary Young Adult
They’re young. They’re in love. They’re on the run.
Zoe wants to save Will as much as Will wants to save Zoe. When Will turns eighteen, they decide to run away together. But they never expected their escape to be so fraught with danger....
When the whole world is after you, sometimes it seems like you can’t run fast enough.
Nobody But Us, told in alternating perspectives from Will and Zoe, is an unflinching novel, in turns heartbreaking and hopeful, about survival, choices, and love...and how having love doesn’t always mean that you get a happy ending.
Series: n/a
Nath: If I Stay as in the book by Gayle Forman?
Ames: I'm assuming so, but I don't care. This one sounds cute!
All right! So those are our picks for January. What are you looking forward to?
