Buddy Review: The Reece Malcolm List by Amy Spalding

I was minding my own business one day when Wena asked me if I wanted to review something with her. Knowing it had been a while since we've posted reviews here at Breezing Through and me and Wena are best buds, I jumped on her offer and suggested this novel. I had noticed it getting some positive buzz around blogland and was curious.  Luckily, it lived up to the hype!  And thanks to Wena for the buddy review.  :P

The Reece Malcolm List by Amy Spalding
Published by Entangled Teen in February 2013

Things I know about Reece Malcolm:

1. She graduated from New York University.
2. She lives in or near Los Angeles.
3. Since her first novel was released, she’s been on the New York Times bestseller list every week.
4. She likes strong coffee and bourbon.
5. She’s my mother.

Devan knows very little about Reece Malcolm, until the day her father dies and she’s shipped off to live with the mother she’s never met. All she has is a list of notebook entries that doesn’t add up to much.

L.A. offers a whole new world to Devan—a performing arts school allows her to pursue her passion for show choir and musicals, a new circle of friends helps to draw her out of her shell, and an intriguing boy opens up possibilities for her first love.

But then the Reece Malcolm list gets a surprising new entry. Now that Devan is so close to having it all, can she handle the possibility of losing everything?

Genre:  Contemporary Young Adult
Series:  n/a

The Reece Malcolm List opens up with our main character, Devan, on a flight to LA with her mother's lawyer.  Devan's father had passed away 3 months earlier and it took all this time for things to get settled on where Devan would live.  You see, she had a step-mother.  But she was less than keen to keep Devan.  So Devan is under the assumption that Reece had to take her in. This is compounded by the fact that she couldn't even be bothered to pick Devan up herself.  She sends her lawyer.  And so begins the tale of Devan and Reece.  Reece is an uber-cool author and Devan almost thinks of herself as a drama geek.  But Devan is no geek.  She's an incredibly talented singer and despite not feeling settled with her mother, she fits in very well at her new school, even becoming friends with the other new student, an incredibly hot guy.  LOL  More than anything, TRML is about daughters and mothers.  Devan thought her mother didn't want her, so this is her journey to the truth.  And it doesn't come easily, but it's an interesting story.  And there's some cute guys.  :P

Ames: What did you think of the Reece Malcolm List? For myself, I thought it was a bit slow to begin. However, I got over that feeling quickly enough and couldn't put the book down until I'd finished!

Wena: You know, I don’t recall ever being bored by the book and while it didn’t start off with a bang, I was still very interested in Devan and her mother right from the jump. I really enjoyed the book and I really, really enjoyed getting to know Devan. I thought as a main character, Devan was well written. I connected with her in a way that I haven’t connected with any main character in a while.

Did you think that the love interest was who it turned out to be? I’ll admit, I was tossed on who exactly the love interest was even though I knew who I wanted it to be.

Ames: I think part of it was that the last YA I read annoyed me and then there was the death of a parental unit...which kind of put me off because I feel like it’s overused in YA...so I think the book had to overcome my feelings over those things at the beginning. Which it definitely did! But yeah, Devan and her mom were something else and I was intrigued by them that I got over that relatively quickly. If that makes sense. LOL

Devan was very well written! I definitely related to her feelings surrounding her mom and thinking her mom didn't want her and that she was imposing. That's such a big piece to Devan's feelings about her mom. I liked how that relationship grew over time.

As for the boys. I thought that it would play out differently from the way it did but I liked how it all worked out in the end. I thought it was very mature of her to break things off with who she did because of how she felt about the other dude. Don't you think? That made me cheer. And I like who she ended up with.

Aside from the boys, I liked her new group of friends. I did not expect Mira's situation though. LOL

Wena: Yeah, I guess I know what you mean. Death is a popular thing to have in YA’s these days. Is it because kids that don’t deal with death aren’t interesting? I wonder.

It was amazing to me that Reece Malcolm said things that were so insensitive to the daughter that she gave up so many years ago. I mean, I got that, that was the kind of person she was but, still. She didn’t know Devan at all and Devan’s father (the only parent she’s ever known outside of her evil stepmother) just died. She was an adult and for her to say the things that she did and do the things that she did, got on my nerves in the beginning.

I so agree! I mean, the list that Devan had running wasn’t something she started in L.A. She started that long before she moved in with Reece Malcolm. I really like how their relationship grew and how it was written. It wasn’t a perfect relationship by any means but I liked seeing how they came together.

I was happy with who she ended up with too. I can usually spot the love interest from a mile away but in this book, it was hard to tell at first because the first guy was so …love interest material that I kept thinking, “Oh man, I like him but not for her…” and when she broke up with him, I was happy too. I mean, he was a great guy but he wasn’t for her. I really liked when she let the other guy have it though. The way that she finally stood up for herself with him and the way that she called him out on his crap. It was great.

I really liked her new set of friends too. I really liked that even though they were all great, things between them weren’t always perfect. They had their issues, we saw them fight and then make up. The way friends should be. I thought Mira would be the one that she ends up being closest too and I was glad that they came around with each other. And like you, Mira’s situation caught me off guard too. I wasn’t expecting that one.

Ames: Oh Devan's mom got on my nerves in the beginning too! It would have been interesting to know how things had gone for her mom after Devan was born. I mean she has to be prickly for a reason right? Even her best friends said that she pushed away the people she cared for the most. Her mom was an interesting and imperfect character all on her own. I cried when they had their words at the end. I was floored by how invested I was in these characters emotionally and the way Reece talked to Devan after their fight made me tear up. I love books that make me cry like that.

And how screwed up was it the way Devan found out about her mom? I was furious at her dad at that point. I was mad at him for being so distant, but when I read how she found out?

I love how Devan stood up for herself and called dude out on his crap. Girls need to do that to boys more often so they quit playing games like that! And to realize that things will be awkward with the other guy after they broke up but that they could still be friends. I found the romantic aspects to this book very refreshing and just wish all characters could communicate like that.

Who know who else I liked? Brad. Remember when she was at the club for Elijah's show with a beer and he showed up. LMAO! I thought that was funny. Such quirky characters.

Wena: Oh, I know! I was a total Brad fan. I thought he was good for Reece but he was also good for Devan.

I would have liked to see Reece’s background a bit more (through talks with Devan) too. When they finally have that talk at the end, I was so happy and like you, I teared up. I was so happy to finally be getting some answers for Devan. Devan’s character was so likable, even when she wasn’t speaking up for herself. She was one of those characters that as an adult, I wanted to cuddle close and protect her from those that would harm her. She was smart, she was capable and yet there was a vulnerability about her that endeared her to me. I wanted to be her mother and I wanted to beat her step-mom and then smack her Mom around for 1) not flying out to meet Devan and 2) not sitting Devan down to talk about her father’s death and why she’d given her up in the first place. I get that Reece didn’t know anything about the relationship between Devan and Devan’s father but she should have at least asked if Devan wanted to talk about it. I was disappointed that she didn’t.

The way that Devan found out about Reece was totally messed up. I can’t even imagine finding out who my mother was the way that Devan found out…and even with the way that she was brought up, the card that she was dealt….I never once thought that Devan was a total snot. She had every reason to be a snot but she wasn’t. Which made me like her even more.

So I’m taking it, you would recommend this book? Right?

Ames: I like to think that Devan and her mom, after the conclusion of the book, had that sit-down. Because they definitely needed it. But they broke the ice with their big fight and they needed to do that too, so it's a step in the right direction. Devan needed to know she didn't have to be perfect and that she could get in trouble. I think her bitch of a step mom really did a number on her making her keep all her emotions and feelings inside. I hated that woman!

Overall, I liked this YA. It was smart and mature but it definitely took me back to those good old days when liking a guy gave you butterflies in your stomach. Yes, I highly recommend this one. :P

Wena: She really did, that stupid step mom. The Dad had a hand in that as well. He couldn’t have not known that his wife was mistreating his daughter. But you’re right about Reece and Devan. That big fight did break the ice and did a lot to repair the relationship that wasn’t all there when Devan first gets to L.A.

I highly recommend this book too. On top of great characters and a charming main character, this book introduced some fantabulous relationships that weren’t perfect but so interesting. I really liked this book and will definitely be reading more from this author.

Ames: I'm giving this book an A-. And I look forward to more by this author as well. :P

Wena: I’d give it an A. Great read!

Happy Valentine's Blogiversary Day!!

First of all, HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to all our wonderful friends.

And second, today is the fifth anniversary of Breezing Through!!  Woohoo!! It hasn't been smooth sailing, but we hope to continue this journey as long as possible :) And we hope that you'll keep accompany us!

New Releases - February 2013

Finally a plentiful month of new releases after two lean ones! Honestly, I feel like the year is only really starting now... and I can't wait :) Because this is the beginning of a few good months of new releases and let me assure you, your wallet can take it LOL. And if it can, well your reader soul will still thank us :P

So let's take a look at the books that are revving our motors :)


February 5

Reservations for Two by Jennifer Lohmann

published by Harlequin (SuperRomance)

It's getting hotter in the kitchen

Tilly Milek almost has it all. She's opened her own Chicago restaurant, the way she'd always dreamed, and it's this close to being a success. Even better, she's met Dan Meier—a gorgeous man who loves food as much as she does. He isn't put off by her demanding job, which only makes her want to spend more time with him.

But a scathing review by an anonymous local critic puts everything in jeopardy. Worse, her steamy new man turns out to be the one who wrote it! Tilly doesn't see how she can ever forgive Dan, but she can't stop thinking about him either. In print he's her enemy. In person? He's as tempting as a perfectly prepared meal…and Tilly's appetite just might get the best of her.

Genre: Category romance, contempoary
Series: None

Nath: When it comes to category romance, I'm quite picky. Most often, I'll pick up the books because it's by an author I've previously read before or on a recommendation. So Reservations for Two wasn't on my radar until I started seeing all the positive reviews... but with its big city setting and foodie characters, it's definitively on now :)

Crystal Cove by Lisa Kleypas
published by St. Martin's Press

Justine Hoffman has made a comfortable life for herself on the island of Friday Harbor. She is the proprietor of a successful boutique hotel, and she has the safe, predictable life she has always wanted. Growing up with her flighty, nomadic mother, Marigold, has instilled in her a deep longing for stability. But in spite of everything Justine has achieved, there is still something missing. Love. And after years of waiting and dreaming, she is willing to do whatever it takes to change her destiny.

What Justine soon discovers is that someone cast a spell on her when she was born, with the result that she will never find her soul mate. Determined to change her fate, Justine finds a way to break the enchantment, never dreaming of the dangerous complications that will follow.

And when Justine meets the mysterious Jason Black, she accidentally unleashes a storm of desire and danger that threaten everything she holds dear . . . because Jason has secrets of his own, and he wants more from her than fate will ever allow.

Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Friday Harbor, Book #4

Nath: I'm kind of torn about Crystal Cove... I mean, it's Ms Kleypas after all! However, I'm just not excited about this series which is why I have yet to read Dream Lake and the blurb is not helping ^_^; So I guess I'm skipping this one.

Ames:  I haven't read Dream Lake either.  I think I'll wait to see what others say about this one.


Did You Miss Me? by Karen Rose

published by New American Library (Signet)

Baltimore prosecutor Daphne Montgomery pulled herself out of a damaged past to build a solid life for herself and her son. But after she helps to convict a killer, her confidence is shattered once again by the news that her son has been kidnapped.

Daphne believes it’s connected to the recent high-profile trial, and at first FBI special agent Joseph Carter agrees. But together they find the reality to be even more troubling, and it runs deeper than Daphne fears. With her son’s life in jeopardy, she must unlock a dreadful secret about her past—and confront a truth that will change everything for those closest to her. And, if she survives, threaten the lives of everyone she loves.

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Baltimore, Book #3

Nath: This is the North American release of Did You Miss Me? I couldn't wait two months to get my hands on this book, so I bought the UK edition... but guess what? Yep, I'll be buying a second copy - that's how much I love Karen Rose... which means if you haven't read her yet, give her books a try!

Ames:  Karen is an autobuy author for me.  Even though I'm not caught up on this series I'll be picking this one up.

Soulbound by Tessa Adams
published by New American Library (Signet Eclipse)

As the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter—and a member of Ipswitch’s Royal family—Xandra Morgan should be a witch of incredible power. But things don’t always turn out like you expect...

While she hasn’t lived up to her family’s expectations, Xandra has come to terms with her latent magic and made a life for herself in Austin, Texas, running a coffee shop where she makes potions of a non-magical nature. While things aren’t perfect, Xandra is happy—until she runs into powerful warlock Declan Chumomisto.

Xandra hasn’t seen Declan in years, and though she’s still overwhelmed by his power, she doesn’t trust him. And when her own powers awaken one night and lead her to the body of a woman in the woods bearing the symbol of Isis—the same one that has marked Xandra since the day she met Declan—she’s filled with a terrible suspicion, soon confirmed: the woman is connected to him.

Xandra doesn’t want to believe that Declan is capable of murder, but as the body count mounts, and Xandra’s own powers spiral out of control, she’s not sure she can trust her own instincts...

Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Lone Star Witch, Book #1

Nath: Magic, witch, warlock... What can I say? That's one of my weaknesses :P Also I'm very intrigued by the fact that the heroine is the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter. Powerful mojo there. I've never read Ms Adams, but I'm very intrigued :)


Going Under by Lauren Dane

published by Berkley

In the wake of the Magister’s rampage, chaos rules. Left reeling, the Others and the humans scramble to create a some sort of unity in the face of growing unrest and violence from anti-Other hate groups federation—and ruthless PR guru Molly Ryan is the witch who can do it. She grew up in the human world but there’s nothing left for her there. She’s lost her PR firm, her friends and she’s decided to put all her fight toward aiding the Others in this dark, new reality. If there’s anything left for her there, she’s going to fight for it. But Gage Garrity, one of the few Others who survived the massacre, fears that the crusade will expose Molly to greater dangers than ever before.

Now, together, with magick on their side, they’re on the road in a desperate struggle to unite a torn world. From state houses to television news to legislative conference rooms across the country, they’re fighting the good fight. And it’s bringing out a passion in both of them they never expected—one as volatile, intense, and all-consuming as their relentless battle for world unity. A battle that could be their undoing...

Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Bound by Magick, Book #3

Nath: I read and really enjoyed Chaos Burning, the second book of the series, and that's why I'm going to pick up Going Under.

Ames:  *sigh*  Another series I need to get into.  Lauren Dane is an auto-buy author for me so I know I'll be picking this one up regardless.

The Autumn Bride by Anne Gracie
published by Berkley

Governess Abigail Chantry will do anything to save her sister and two dearest friends from destitution, even if it means breaking into an empty mansion in the hope of finding something to sell. Instead of treasures, though, she finds the owner, Lady Beatrice Davenham, bedridden and neglected. Appalled, Abby rousts Lady Beatrice's predatory servants and—with Lady Beatrice's eager cooperation—the four young ladies become her “nieces,” neatly eliminating the threat of disaster for all concerned!

It's the perfect situation, until Lady Beatrice’s dashing and arrogant nephew, Max, Lord Davenham, returns from the Orient—and discovers an impostor running his household...

A romantic entanglement was never the plan for these stubborn, passionate opponents—but falling in love may be as inevitable as the falling of autumn leaves...

Genre: Historical romance
Series: The Chance Sisters, Book #1

Nath: In the past couple of years, I've become a huge fan of Ms Gracie's historical romances. Looking forward to her new series! Although I admit I'm a bit disappointed that The Autumn Bride is not Marcus' book... when is he going to be the hero? I hope soon!

Ames:  This author is on my radar because of how much you've enjoyed her.  This one sounds interesting!


Rush by Maya Banks

published by Berkley

Gabe, Jace, and Ash: three of the wealthiest, most powerful men in the country. They’re accustomed to getting anything they want. Anything at all. For Gabe, it’s making one particular fantasy come true with a woman who was forbidden fruit. Now she’s ripe for the picking...

When Gabe Hamilton saw Mia Crestwell walk into the ballroom for his hotel’s grand opening, he knew he was going to hell for what he had planned. After all, Mia is his best friend’s little sister. Except she’s not so little anymore. And Gabe has waited a long time to act on his desires.

Gabe has starred in Mia’s fantasies more than once, ever since she was a teenager with a huge crush on her brother’s best friend. So what if Gabe’s fourteen years older? Mia knows he’s way out of her league, but her attraction has only grown stronger with time. She’s an adult now, and there’s no reason not to act on her most secret desires.

As Gabe pulls her into his provocative world, she realizes there’s a lot she doesn’t know about him or how exacting his demands can be. Their relationship is intense and obsessive, but as they cross the line from secret sexual odyssey to something deeper, their affair runs the risk of being exposed—and vulnerable to a betrayal far more intimate than either expected.

Genre: Erotica romance
Series: Breathless, Book #1

Ames:  I am a fan of Maya Banks, so even though this one screams copy cat, I wanted to read it.  I do like rich businessmen.  I have read it, but I won't say anything about it, because I need to review it.  Muahahaha!

Man in an Empty Suit by Sean Ferrell
published by Soho Press

Say you're a time traveler and you've already toured the entirety of human history. After a while, the outside world might lose a little of its luster. That's why this time traveler celebrates his birthday partying with himself. Every year, he travels to an abandoned hotel in New York City in 2071, the hundredth anniversary of his birth, and drinks twelve-year-old Scotch (lots of it) with all the other versions of who he has been and who he will be. Sure, the party is the same year after year, but at least it's one party where he can really, well, be himself.

The year he turns 39, though, the party takes a stressful turn for the worse. Before he even makes it into the grand ballroom for a drink he encounters the body of his forty-year-old self, dead of a gunshot wound to the head. As the older versions of himself at the party point out, the onus is on him to figure out what went wrong--he has one year to stop himself from being murdered, or they're all goners. As he follows clues that he may or may not have willingly left for himself, he discovers rampant paranoia and suspicion among his younger selves, and a frightening conspiracy among the Elders. Most complicated of all is a haunting woman possibly named Lily who turns up at the party this year, the first person besides himself he's ever seen at the party. For the first time, he has something to lose. Here's hoping he can save some version of his own life.

Genre: Fiction, Sci-Fi, Time travel
Series: none

Nath: Honestly, I have no idea if I'll ever pick up this book because it's so far out of my comfort zone... but I'm really intrigued by the blurb. So you never know...


February 12

Pivot Point by Kasie West

published by Harpercollins Publisher (HarperTeen)

Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier...

Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.

In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through... and who she can’t live without.

Genre: YA, fantasy, paranormal
Series: Pivot Point, Book #1

Nath: This book has an interesting premise and it intrigues me. Again, not sure I'll be picking it up, really depends on the feedback, but it's on my radar :)


February 25

Pros and Cons by Jenna Black
published by Simon & Schuster (Pocket)

As a living descendant of Artemis the Huntress, private investigator Nikki Glass knows how to track someone down—but this time, her latest case leads to unexpected revelations of lies and betrayal...

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Nikki Glass, Book #2.5

Nath: Okay, I'm not fond of authors writing novellas in-between full-length novels in a series. I used not to mind, but it's becoming increasingly more frequent and I don't know, it just feels like a ploy for your fans to shell out more money because most of the time, the stories in these novellas don't impact the series at all ^_^; I mean, what's the point then? That being said, I'm most probably going to pick Pros and Cons. I know, I know, I have no will power.


February 26

Calculated in Death by J.D. Robb

published by Putnam

On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better.

A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn't seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.

But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait...

Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: In Death, Book #36

Nath: Is there anything to say? Long-time follower of this series, I'm up-to-date and looking forward to my bi-annual fix LOL. And seriously, there's no author as consistent as Nora Roberts.

The Best Man by Kristan Higgins
published by Harlequin (HQN Books)

Faith Holland left her hometown after being jilted at the altar. Now a little older and wiser, she's ready to return to the Blue Heron Winery, her family's vineyard, to confront the ghosts of her past, and maybe enjoy a glass of red. After all, there's some great scenery there....

Like Levi Cooper, the local police chief-and best friend of her former fiancé. There's a lot about Levi that Faith never noticed, and it's not just those deep green eyes. The only catch is she's having a hard time forgetting that he helped ruin her wedding all those years ago. If she can find a minute amidst all her family drama to stop and smell the rose, she just might find a reason to stay at Blue Heron, and finish that walk...

Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Blue Heron, Book #1

Nath: It seems it's been forever since Ms Higgins' last release... and that might have been a good strategy on her part because I'm really looking forward to The Best Man :) I think Ms Higgins did a great job in her last few books, crossing the line into contemporary romance, and I hope she continues with this one.

Ames:  It does feel like it's been forever!  Especially since I haven't read her last 3 releases!!  I think I'll read this one though.  :P


Three Sisters by Susan Mallery

published by Harlequin (Mira)

After Andi Gordon is jilted at the altar, she makes the most impetuous decision of her life – buying one of the famed Three Sisters Queen Anne houses on Blackberry Island. Now the proud-ish owner of the ugly duckling of the trio, she plans to open her own pediatric office on the first floor, just as soon as her hunky contractor completes the work. Andi's new future may be coming together, but the truth is she's just as badly in need of a major renovation as her house.

When Deanna Phillips confronts her husband about a suspected affair, she opens up a Pandora's Box of unhappiness. And he claims that she is the problem. The terrible thing is, he's right. In her quest to be the perfect woman, she's lost herself, and she's in danger of losing her entire family if things don't change.

Next door, artist Boston King thought she and her college sweetheart would be married forever. Their passion for one other has always seemed indestructible. But after tragedy tears them apart, she's not so sure. Now it's time for them to move forward, with or without one another.

Thrown together by fate and geography, and bound by the strongest of friendships, these three women will discover what they're really made of: laughter, tears, love and all.

Genre: Contemporary romance
Series: Blackberry Island, Book #2

Nath: Haven't read the first book, but I've heard good things about Three Sisters. This book sounds more like Women's Fiction/Chick-lit and perhaps that's not a bad thing. I used to really enjoy Ms Mallery's contemporary romance, but it feels like she lost something in the past few years. Perhaps this book will be the one that'll bring back the magic for me...

Star Crossed by Jennifer Echols
published by Simon & Schuster

Wendy Mann loves her job rescuing celebrities from public relations scrapes. She grew up with nothing, and now she’s drawn to glitz, glamour, and a lighthearted lifestyle. She speaks her mind, so she’s just the tough cookie to tell stars the truth about how other people see them, even when they don’t want to hear it. But after six years at the top of her game, Wendy crosses the line. A star she was sent to save rebels against her and nearly gets her fired. To salvage her job, she must rehabilitate the career of a singing starlet with a penchant for posting inappropriate photos of herself and arguing online with her famous ex. Problem is, the ex is represented by Wendy’s arch nemesis from college, the hot and haughty Daniel Blackstone. And both stars are scheduled for a collision course on national television, broadcast live from Las Vegas.

Daniel’s uneasy when he hears Wendy Mann from his firm’s most hated competitor has been brought in to revive the career of his client’s ex-girlfriend. Daniel must win at any cost. And if he has to seduce Wendy to smooth the way to their partnership, he’s willing to sacrifice himself for the cause. But Daniel doesn’t count on the scorching heat between them—and when they get to Vegas, all bets are off.

Genre: Chick-lit
Series: Stargazer, Book #1

Nath: This is Ms Echols' first foray into adult fiction and I'm intrigued. I really hope she pulls it off :) Blurb sounds interesting and funny.

Ames:  I hope she pulls it off too.  I like her writing, so I'm looking forward to this one.


By Love Unveiled by Sabrina Jeffries

published by Simon & Schuster

Miss Marianne Winchilsea is running for her life from those whom she believes have attempted to kill the king. Forced to disguise herself, she trusts no one—especially not Garett Lockwood, the Earl of Falkham, who usurped her family home and who seems to be her most dangerous enemy.

And what Garett sees behind her masquerade is a beautiful half gypsy enrobed in mystery, deception, and burning secrets. A woman he should avoid at all costs.

In a world where treachery and betrayal reign, a sweet seduction rules their hearts—and dares them to risk their destinies on a passionate love that all the powerful forces of the world cannot defeat.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: none

Nath: I'm not super fond of reprints because very often, it's not a good reflection of the author's style anymore... so I think I'm going to wait for reviews for By Love Unveiled before giving it a try. Her next book   - What the Duke Desires - though, I'll pick up without hesitation.

Ames:  I didn't realize this one was a reprint.

Nath: Yeah, it's a reprint. Apparently, she wrote this book more than twenty years ago under another name, Deborah Martin. However, this version has been revised, so might be worth a try.

And the Miss Ran Away with the Rake by Elizabeth Boyle
published by Harpercollins Publisher (Avon)

Daphne Dale never could have imagined that when she answered an advertisement in the newspaper that she would find true love. Now she has the opportunity to meet her unknown suitor, but it means traveling to Tabitha’s wedding, and into the heart of her family’s sworn enemies. Everyone knows the Seldons are terrible rakes and bounders, but Daphne will risk anything to gain the happiness she is certain is right around the corner.

Lord Henry Seldon is aghast at the latest addition to the house party guest list—one would think after the unforgettable scandal Daphne Dale caused at the duke’s engagement ball, she wouldn’t dare show her face at the duke’s wedding. But here she is, poking her nose where she shouldn’t and driving Henry mad... with an unforgettable passion that will turn enemies into lovers.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Rhymes with Love, Book #2

Nath: Ms Boyle's books are hits and misses for me, but I'm really hoping And the Miss Ran Away with the Rake is a hit because after reading Along Came a Duke, I think it has a lot of potential :)

Ames:  I like the title and that cover!

Nath: They're cute, right? ;)


The Duke Diaries by Sophia Nash

published by Harpercollins Publisher (Avon)

After a wild, scandalous night, Rory Lennox, the Duke of Abshire, finds himself in the bed of his sworn enemy’s wholesome sister, Verity Fitzroy. To protect her honor and keep the peace, he agrees to marriage, but it’s an engagement neither is happy about—until unimaginable occurrences make them view the other in a new, passionate light.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Royal Entourage, Book #3

Nath: I like when two persons who don't really like each other have to marry... so perhaps I'll pick this one up. The premise of this series is not bad, but I don't know, something's missing in my opinion.

Ames:  I like that kind of set up too.  I need to read the other books in this series though.  hehe

A Bride by Moonlight by Liz Carlyle
published by Harpercollins Publisher (Avon)

Passion and secrets simmer behind the elegant façade of Victorian London in another deliciously intriguing novel featuring the dangerous men of the mysterious St. James Society.

Royden Napier, Baron Saint-Bryce, is tall, dark, and ruthless—and on the hunt for a dangerous beauty...

On the eve of her escape to the Continent, bold, beautiful Lisette Colburne accepts a proposal she dare not refuse: masquerade as the future bride of the steely-eyed Royden Napier and help him solve his most dangerous case. Soon Lisette is in even greater danger—of losing her heart to the one man with the power to destroy her...

Estranged from his aristocratic family, the enigmatic Napier has forged a reputation as Scotland Yard's most relentless police commissioner. He's vowed to bring Lisette to justice—but with every forbidden kiss and every tantalizing touch, he finds himself becoming less convinced of her guilt... and more certain he must have her. But when danger touches Lisette, can he save her?

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Fraternitas Aureae Crucis, Book #4

Ames:  Liz Carlyle is another solid historical author and I'm looking forward to this one.


A Most Scandalous Proposal by Ashlyn Macnamara

published by Random House Publishing (Ballantine Books)

After watching her beloved sister Sophia pine over the ton’s Golden Boy for years, Miss Julia St. Claire has foresworn love and put herself firmly on the shelf. Unfortunately, her social-climbing mother and debt-ridden father have other ideas, and jump at the chance to marry Julia off to the newly-named Earl of Clivesden…the man of Sophia’s dreams.

Since resigning his Cavalry commission, Benedict Revelstoke has spent his time in London avoiding the marriage mart. But when he discovers that the Earl of Clivesden has set Julia in his sights, Benedict tries to protect his childhood best friend from the man’s advances—only to discover more than friendship driving his desire to defend her. He surprises them both with the force of his feelings, but when she refuses him and her father announces her betrothal, he fears he’s lost her forever—until Julia approaches him with a shocking scheme that will ruin her for all respectable society…

…and lead them into an exquisite world of forbidden pleasures.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: none

Ames:  Something about this blurb really appeals to me.  It could be Julia putting herself on the shelf and that Julie and Benedict are childhood friends.  It just sounds cute.

Lord of Darkness by Elizabeth Hoyt
published by Grand Central Publishing

When Strangers In The Night

He lives in the shadows. As the mysterious masked avenger known as the Ghost of St. Giles, Godric St. John's only goal is to protect the innocent of London. Until the night he confronts a fearless young lady pointing a pistol at his head—and realizes she is his wife.

Become Lovers...

Lady Margaret Reading has vowed to kill the Ghost of St. Giles—the man who murdered her one true love. Returning to London, and to the man she hasn't seen since their wedding day, Margaret does not recognize the man behind the mask. Fierce, commanding, and dangerous, the notorious Ghost of St. Giles is everything she feared he would be—and so much more.

Desire Is The Ultimate Danger

When passion flares, these two intimate strangers can't keep from revealing more of themselves than they had ever planned. But when Margaret learns the truth—that the Ghost is her husband—the game is up and the players must surrender...to the temptation that could destroy them both.

Genre: Historical romance
Series: Maiden Lane, Book #5

Ames:  I enjoy Hoyt's writing and I have the rest of the series, so this is a no brainer.


Also Known As by Robin Benway

published by Bloomsbury

Being a 16-year-old safecracker and active-duty daughter of international spies has its moments, good and bad. Pros: Seeing the world one crime-solving adventure at a time. Having parents with super cool jobs. Cons: Never staying in one place long enough to have friends or a boyfriend. But for Maggie Silver, the biggest perk of all has been avoiding high school and the accompanying cliques, bad lunches, and frustratingly simple locker combinations. Then Maggie and her parents are sent to New York for her first solo assignment, and all of that changes. She'll need to attend a private school, avoid the temptation to hack the school's security system, and befriend one aggravatingly cute Jesse Oliver to gain the essential information she needs to crack the case . . . all while trying not to blow her cover.

Genre: YA, contemporary
Series: none

Nath: The fact that the heroine is going to act as a spy reminds me of Ally Carter's series, The Gallagher Girls... and I'm interesting to see how Ms Benway will make it hers.

Ames:  Hey!  This one sounds interesting.  Thanks for bringing it to my attention, Nath.  :P

Nath: You are welcome my friend :)

Trickster by Jeff Somers
published by Simon & Schuster

Lem has ethics in using his magic. Therefore Lem is hungry and broke most of the time.

Ethics in the world of blood magic, however, is a gray area. While Lem will grift his way through life by using small glamours to make $1 bills appear as $20s, enabling him and his none-too-bright pal Mags to eat, he won’t use other people's blood to cast. Stronger spells require more blood, and hardcore magicians use Bleeders or “volunteers” to this end. Not Lem.

So when these down-and-out boon companions encounter a girl kidnapped and marked with magic rune tattoos, it’s not at all clear that they’re powerful enough to save her…or themselves. Turning to his estranged Master for help, it quickly becomes clear to Lem that not only is this beautiful, strange girl’s life all but forfeit, but that the world’s preeminent mage had big, earth-shattering plans for her—and he and Mags just got in the way.

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: none

Nath: Trickster sounds a bit darker than I'd like but you know me, always on the look-out for new urban fantasy series, which is why this book is on my radar.


Fade to Black by Francis Knight

published by Orbit

It’s a city built upwards, not across—where streets are built upon streets, buildings upon buildings. A city that the Ministry rules from the sunlit summit, and where the forsaken lurk in the darkness of Under.

Rojan Dizon doesn’t mind staying in the shadows, because he’s got things to hide. Things like being a pain-mage, with the forbidden power to draw magic from pain. But he can’t hide for ever.

Because when Rojan stumbles upon the secrets lurking in the depths of the Pit, the fate of Mahala will depend on him using his magic. And unlucky for Rojan—this is going to hurt.

Genre: Fantasy
Series: Rojan Dizon, Book #1

Nath: Again, another book that sounds very dark, but that could be awesome. Will be looking for reviews :)

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What about you? What books are you looking forward to? Any books we should be adding to this list? :)