ARC Book Review-Sun God Seeks…Surrogate?

Sun God Seeks…Surrogate
Accidently Yours (3)
Mimi Jean Pamfiloff
Forever-Grand Central Publishing
E Book
Published February 2014
300 Pages
Paranormal Romance
ISBN:  9780615679655

Synopsis
A Deal from Heaven

Living in New York City, Penelope Trudeau has seen a lot of weird stuff-but nothing like the insane redhead who accosts her with a wild proposition. Penelope will get a million dollars if she has a baby with the strange woman’s brother. With her mother dying from a mysterious disease, Penelope can use the money. Yet the terrified waitress is adamant that her womb and eggs are not for sale . . . until she meets her intended mate. He’s impressively built, gorgeous, and red-hot, literally. He’s a freaking immortal Sun God.

For thousands of years, Kinich (Nick to his friends) didn’t believe in fraternizing with humans, so procreating with them is definitely a no-no. But after one sizzling encounter with the beautiful, passionate Penelope, Nick begins to think he was wrong . . . until he realizes meeting Penelope was just another one of his crazy sister’s schemes at manipulation. But now that he has Penelope in his life, he can’t let her go. Especially because doing so means throwing her into the hands of his dangerous enemies.

My Review

Penelope is approached by the strangest craziest woman known…Cimil. Cimil offers Penelope a proposition, she will give her a million dollars in exchange for having her brothers baby. At first Penelope feels outraged, but with working to pay off her mothers medical bills, and trying to save up to go to college, she doesn’t know what it would hurt to meet the man she is supposed to have a baby with. When she first meets Kinich, her senses go into overload, and she knows the heat alone that flares between them from across a crowded room, she knows they would no problem making a baby right? Kinish is a powerful god, the sun god. He has lived for thousands of years, but he believes in never socializing with humans, as it leads to consequences he would rather avoid. But then he realizes that this sensual beautiful woman is everything he could ever dream of. She starts to teach him of the beauty of living. But a war is coming, and his enemies threaten to destroy everything good and pure, including the one woman who has stolen his heart.

For a year or so I have been watching this series pop up, and I have been curious on reading these books. So when I was able to obtain a copy of this ARC, I couldn’t wait to pick it up. Even though the e book was published in 2012, the mass market paperback was released a couple of days ago. So another E book format was released as well. I have heard pros and cons to these books, but I think after reading the first chapter I was hooked, completely. I was so drawn into this story, I couldn’t put it down, and I read it all this morning. WOWZERS!!! That is all I wish to say because I don’t believe my review will do this book justice. I was so shocked in how much I enjoyed it. I wasn’t even expecting anything as close to what this book was packed with. As I was in the process of reading it, I could barely contain my excitement of this story, characters and a plot that thickens with each chapter. With each page turn, I found myself mystified and intrigued by the continuous change of events, and how when I thought I had the story figured out, something would change and it would blow my mind away!!

The characters in this book are phenomenal and I loved every one of them. Penelope is endearing and charming and a fighter and I LOVED her. She has spunk and intuinity, and a sense of adventure and her personality is very bold even though it doesn’t seem like it at the beginning. You see a transformation of her character in a subtle but progressive way. Now Kinich I think I had a harder time liking. He is everything you would like in a alpha male stereotype, but he took some getting used to. His character is a bit more harsh and unapproachable at times. But as I progressed further into the story, he started to become more endearing to me. We see other side characters, and couples from the previous books (so I am aching to read their stories too.). The intimate scenes between Kinich and Penelope were blazing at times. They so have a fire buildup of chemistry, but there wasn’t quite as much focus on the romantic relationship. There was some, and you see more of it through the later half. There is also much more going on in this story than just a simple romance, there is a few complex issues that come up and it built up the plot that only engaged the reader even more.

Overall a sexy paranormal romance with steamy scenes, a thrilling plot, plenty of action, mystery and romance. BREATHTAKING!!!

My Grade 
5 Blossoms

Heat Rating
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Accidently in Love with a …god?
Accidently Married To A…Vampire
Accidently…Evil?
Vampires Need Not…Apply?
Accidently…Camil?
Accidently.. Over?

ARC Book Review-Sapphires Are An Earl’s Best Friend

Sapphires Are An Earl’s Best Friend
Jewels of the Ton (3)
Shana Galen
Sourcebooks Casablanca
E Book
Published March 2014
384 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN:  9781402269790
Authors Website

Synopsis
She Wants Him…
She Wants Him Not…

Lily Dawson, dubbed the Countess of Charm by the Prince Regent himself, plays the role of the courtesan flawlessly while her real purpose is spying in the service of the Crown. Her mission now is to seduce a duke to test his true loyalties. She’ll do it, even though the man she really wants is Andrew Booth-Payne, Earl of Darlington—the duke’s son.

Andrew is furious when he finds himself rivaling his father for Lily’s attention. When he uncovers Lily’s mission, Andrew is faced with impossible choices. It seems he is destined to betray either his family, his country, or the longings of his own heart..

My Review

Lily, ever since she was a little girl, admired her father for his profession and so she followed his footsteps and now works as a spy for the government. Lily has been called on a new mission, to seduce the Duke, Andrew’s father and find out what secrets he is hiding and if he is a traitor. She knows that she will have one obstacle, Andrew. Lily has loved Andrew for years but he has never returned the sentiment, but has always had a interest in one of her closest friend. Now she is forced to handle him so that she can gain the trust of his father even though seducing him is the last thing she wants to do. Andrew, is outraged at Lily seducing his father, when it is clear they both share a passionate desire for each other. He doesn’t understand her purpose, and doubts her real reason for coming to their estate. As Lily comes close to finding what she is looking for, she finds that there is one person she can’t let go of, a man whom she loves more fiercely than ever. But a danger lurks ahead, will Lily and Andrew be able to work together and bring down the enemy that would destroy them and England?

Sapphires Are An Earl’s Best Friend is the third in the series, and we see the last Jewel have her story. From the beginning of the story, Lily always fascinated me. She is the most mysterious of all three, and so I was very excited to read her book. Shana Galen is a favored author of mine, from her older works to her latest one, I feel like she just keeps getting better. I was given a copy of this ARC in return of a honest review from Sourcebooks and Netgalley. I was really thrilled to be able to get a chance to read this one, since I have adored every book of this series. It was very thrilling at times to get into this story, and it didn’t take much effort to get fully into it.  The story starts off with a quick pace so it really draws the reader in quickly. The chemistry between Lily and Andrew is instantaneous and boy the fireworks….I loved the tension between these two lively characters. They never let up, its just one thing after another. I felt like I was caught up in a whirlwind of emotion whenever these two souls collide. Haha. Oh boy, did I enjoy myself in this one. There was times when I felt the consistency to the story was a bit lacking, that I didn’t feel in the previous two books. Saying that however, I immensely enjoyed myself, and there was quite a bit of powerful elements to this story that made it into a winning romance of a read.

I felt like there was nothing held back and it was full blast most of the way. The characters were very engaging, and quite a few times I will admit I laughed, but then there was a couple instances where I needed a tissue, since there was some raw emotion displayed that reaches out to the reader in a very personal way. At first I didn’t know what to expect from the blurb, however as you read further into the story, you start to see complicated issues and a bit of drama. There was a hint of true depth and insight into these characters, that pull you like magnets. I felt drawn to both Lily and Andrew, and the way the author writes this story, I felt as if I could feel what they were feeling in the “moment”.The side characters were a wonderful additional spicy flavor to the story. I really liked Andrew’s sister (she was charming and like able). I did enjoy the way the story turns out, although there were a couple times I felt like I didn’t receive a couple of ‘satisfying’answers of questions that I was asking in my mind as I read this story.  And maybe that was the author’s intent, use my imagination and all that nonsense, frankly I would have preferred the answers LOL. Oh well.

Overall a stunning display of romance, suspense, thrills and anticipations, sensual desires, and the magic of true love. A story that will take you places you only can dream of. A book to enrich and captivate and is beyond memorable!!! SPARKLING GEM!!

My Grade 
4 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
When You Give A Duke A Diamond
If You Give a Rake A Ruby

Throwback Thursday (19) The Conqueror

Throwback Thursday is a new meme hosted by Buried Under Romance and Love Saves The World, and since I just love Historical Romance I decided to participate.

What Is Throwback Thursday? Traditionally, Throwback Thursday celebrates nostalgia, asking participants to post a personal photo or image from their past–usually from 5 to 10 years ago. There are a lot of book blogs that also do a book related Throwback Thursday.

 Here Are The Rules: 1. It must be posted on a Thursday. 2. It must be a historical romance novel published before October 3, 2008

Like a pagan god, Rolfe the Relentless rode into Castle Aelfgar to claim it as his prize–and Lady Alice as his bride.  Lauded for his bravery in France, in England he was the hated enemy.  Once ensconced in his new domain, Rolfe became determined to tame the Saxon beauty Ceidre, Alice’s illegitimate sister, whose spirit and sensuality make him risk treason to have her–not Lady Alice–in his bed…

Mysterious and seductive, she was no lady but a spy for the rebel cause of her noble half brothers.  Refusing to bow to this arrogant warrior who ignited her forbidden passion, Ceidre was swept into a dangerous liaison tied to the fate of England and kings.  Yet with his kisses on her lips, his skillful hands on her body, she would have to struggle not to surrender to… The Conqueror.

ARC Book Review-Duncan

Duncan
Vampires In America (5)
D.B. Reynolds
ImaJinn and Belle Books
Re Published February 2014
264 Pages
Vampire Romance
Authors Website

Synopsis
Washington, D.C. … capital of an empire. Powerful. Exhilarating. Corrupt. And in the shadows … vampires far older than the nation itself.

A power unto himself, Duncan has served at Raphael’s side for a hundred and fifty years. But long laid plans have finally borne fruit, and the time has come for Duncan to leave Raphael and tackle the greatest challenge of his life. He will face treacherous vampires and murderous humans. He will rock the halls of human power if necessary. But Washington, D.C. will be his.

Emma Duquet cares nothing for vampire politics. She just wants to find her missing roommate and best friend, Lacey. But Lacey’s been playing with vampires of a particularly dangerous kind, and Emma will have to deal with the new vampire in town if she’s going to find her friend.

Battling powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets, Duncan and Emma will dig beneath the corruption and depravity that is Washington, D.C. and uncover the most heinous conspiracy of all…

My Review 

Duncan has been at Raphael’s side for over a hundred years, ever since he was first turned. Now it is time for Duncan to become a vampire lord, and his territory will be Washington D.C. where secrets and betrayal are abundant. He will do everything to make it is, no matter who gets in his way. Emma Duquet, is searching for her best friend and roommate who disappeared, and she knows that a vampire is responsible. Emma is tough as nails, but when she encounters Duncan, all her toughness goes out the window. Duncan can’t help but feel drawn to Emma, whose vulnerability and beauty speak to his soul. He has never known such tenderness toward anyone, except his closest friends. Now that he has just taken over his new territory he must take care, but he can’t help but resist Emma and her plea for help. As they search for those that have been committing atrocious acts, a fierce desire flares between Duncan and Emma, a desire that threatens to consume them or build a stronger love than either of them imagined.

Duncan is the fifth installment in the series. D.B. Reynolds, with the help of Belle Books, has been re publishing this series, with such beautiful covers. I think Duncan is my favorite, and I love the blue background with the blond hair with this beautiful specimen, I could definitely look at him all day. When I was able to get a copy of this ARC through Netgalley and Bellebooks, I was excited and downloaded it right away and could hardly wait to read it. I have been waiting for Duncan’s story ever since I first saw his character in the first book Raphael. We do see a little of Raphael and Cyn but not nearly as much as the previous books, but I was okay with that. It was nice to have this story to have more focus on Duncan and Emma.  We actually see their first interaction pretty close to the beginning of the story. We see instant fire and sparks between these two and oh boy you could build a fire with that heat. Duncan and Emma are magical together. I felt like they were such a good fitted pair, and evenly matched. Duncan may be a powerful vampire lord, but he has battled like nothing when it comes to Emma. You see his love for Emma that rings like crystal glass. The reader almost becomes envious. Emma is darling, and I love her strength and resilience, and her way of not giving in to Duncan’s orders, but handling him like a mate and not one of his minions. She definitely knows how to handle him and it was exciting seeing these two get over the hills and rocks to true love. There is quite a bit of a conflict involved, where you see secrets revealed and a betrayal you never expect or see coming.

Overall a stunning vampire romance that takes your breath away with every chapter. A tale of a love that is hard fought and worth every moment. Characters that instill a charming quality to entice the reader. And a powerfully written story to make the reader weak in the knees and cheering for this couple in finding their HEA! MAJESTICALLY DONE!!!

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Raphael
Jabril
Sophia
Betrayed
Lucas
Hunted
Aden

WWW Wednesday (27) Waiting On Wednesday (87)

Hosted by Should Be Reading. To participate in this feature, you just have answer these three simple questions:
What are you currently reading?
What did you recently finish reading?
What do you think you’ll read next?

What Are You Currently Reading?

What Did You Recently Finish Reading?

What Do You Think You’ll Read Next

Waiting On” Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine,that spotlights upcoming releases we are eagerly anticipating.This week I’m waiting on, March 2014

A Little Misunderstanding. . .

Kit, the Marquis of Ashton, is in a sticky wicket. He married young and for love—how naïve. He discovered his mistake the very day of his wedding, but he is saddled now with a wife he’s reluctant to trust. And however much evidence he gathers against faithless Jess, he can’t seem to prove her guilt to the final judge—his foolish heart.

Jessica knows she’s bobbled her marriage, however innocently. A fairytale wedding makes no difference if she hasn’t got the marquis charmed to show for it. Well, she’s had enough of accidental encounters with naked gentlemen and near misses explaining things to her husband. It’s time to buck up and go win her man back—even if she has to fight very dirty indeed.

ARC Book Review-A Wicked Pursuit

A Wicked Pursuit
Breconridge Brothers (1)
Isabella Bradord
Ballantine Books
E book
Published February 2014
368 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN:  9780345548122
Authors Website

Synopsis
In Isabella Bradford’s enthralling new trilogy, three noble brothers—London’s most scandalous rakes—are about to do the unthinkable: settle down. Harry Fitzroy, Earl of Hargreave, is the first to meet his match and lose his heart . . . to a lady he least expected.
 
As the eldest son of the Duke of Breconridge, Harry Fitzroy is duty-bound to marry—and marry well. Giving up his rakish ways for the pleasures of a bride’s bed becomes a delightful prospect when Harry chooses beautiful Lady Julia Barclay, the catch of the season. But a fall from his horse puts a serious crimp in his plans. Abandoned by Julia before he can propose, the unlucky bachelor finds himself trapped in the country in the care of Julia’s younger sister.

Harry has never met a woman like Lady Augusta. Utterly without artifice, Gus is clever and capable, and seems to care not a fig for society. After a taboo kiss awakens passion that takes them both by surprise, Harry realizes he’d almost given his heart to the wrong sister. While London tongues wag, he’ll use his most seductive powers of persuasion to convince the reluctant Gus that she belongs with him—as his equal, his love, his wife.

My Review

Harry Fitzroy, has finally decided that it is high time he marry, so he picks the belle of the Ton, a beauty like none other, with grace and poise. So he heads to her country home, where he plans on proposing. But while on a wet morning ride, his finds that he is injured, and his leg broken and his fiancee has fled being “upset” over the situation, and her sister Gus, takes responsibility for him. Gus is appalled by her sisters actions, but not surprised. So Gus starts to tend to Harry’s injuries, and finds herself very protective of him and fights for his survival. When Harry finally breaks his fever, and starts to come back to his normal self, Harry and Gus end up spending more time together. At first they become close friends, but when a passionate kiss is shared, everything changes between them. A intimacy strengthens the bond between them, will Harry and Gus be able to accept the love that is right in front of them? Or are they even in for a bigger battle?

This is the first chance I have had to read from this author. I was able to obtain a copy of this ARC in return of a honest review. A Wicked Pursuit is the most recent series from this author, and A Wicked Pursuit is the first installment. I didn’t know what to expect from this book, especially when I haven’t read from this author before and haven’t read many ratings and reviews on her books, so I was heading into A Wicked Pursuit full throttle with no one man or machine stopping me. I found myself having a difficult time to put this down, which doesn’t always happen with a new to me author. The authors  writing style was enthralling and I couldn’t help but find myself being fully entertained by this one. I definitely didn’t realize how much I would enjoy Bradford until now. I do love it when a author surprises you and in such a delightful way too. There isn’t a huge big conflict in the plot here, its more of a gentle and sweet romance that is very addicting to the reader. There are times when you just need a love story that warms your heart, and this one definitely won in that category. The romance at first isn’t hot at all, its more of a steady progression. You see how much they are attracted to each other, but I do love it at times when its more slow and you can keep up with the pace in a very comfortable way.

The Characters were quite fun to get to know in this one. Harry, oh Harry, how do I explain sufficiently how much I adored him as the hero. He is sweet and playful, a rascal and the loving sort of man. You start to really admire him, even from the beginning of the book. Once Harry and Gus start to get to know each other, you gain a higher respect for him. Oh how I wish more men today were like him, less broken hearts there would be. He isn’t afraid of his love he feels for Gus and doesn’t hide from it, he gives in to it and doesn’t act ashamed of it. Gus is a sweetheart but she does have a few vulnerabilities. I felt like I could relate to her in those vulnerabilities. She isn’t a great beauty, and doesn’t see how Harry could ever really love her except for gratitude. But you start to see how good Harry is for her, and she starts to gain more confidence in herself and in her abilities.

The story line was very enjoyable and romantic, and tender. It definitely would fit in the emotionally driven section. You might need a tissue or two especially if you fully get into the story. The bed scenes weren’t too smexy, but I like that. I prefer more focus on the relationship. There are quite a few heated moments, which are very tender, but one of my favorite aspects of this story, was that the “Sex” didn’t take control over the story. It was icing on the cake. You see quite a bit of substance to the plot and to the characters that is quite addictive. I loved seeing the quality of the story come through and it was very disarming. Overall a hypnotic love tale to overwhelm, excite, and endear you. A RARE TREASURE!!!

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books in Series 
A Sinful Deception (coming out August 2014)

Book Review-Last Kiss Goodnight

Last Kiss Goodnight
Otherworld Assasin
Gena Showalter
Pocket Books
Paperback
Published January 2013
436 Pages
Paranormal Romance
ISBN: 978-1-4516-7159-9
Authors Website

Synopsis
The breathtaking first novel in New York Times best selling author Gena Showalter’s new paranormal romance series, Otherworld Assassins, featuring a black ops agent who is captured and enslaved…and the beautiful deaf girl who holds the key to his salvation…

THE SWEETEST TEMPTATION…

Black ops agent Solomon Judah awakens caged and bound in a twisted zoo where otherworlders are the main attraction. Vika Lukas, the owner’s daughter, is tasked with Solo’s care and feeding. The monster inside him yearns to kill her on sight, even though she holds the key to his escape. But the human side of him realizes the beautiful deaf girl is more than she seems—she’s his.

THE ULTIMATE PRICE…

Vika endures the captives’ taunts and loathing, hoping to keep them alive even if she can’t free them. Only, Solo is different—he protects her. But as hostility turns to forbidden romance, his feelings for her will be used against him…and he’ll be put to a killer test.

My Review

It has been quite some time since I have read this author, and this series is very recent. So when I saw this on the bookshelf at my local library, I knew I needed to try it out. There hasn’t been one book of Showalter I didn’t like. So I was very intrigued by the blurb so when I started reading it, I knew that this would be a book I could sink my teeth into. Last Kiss Goodnight deals with seeing a world where paranormal creatures exist who have a variety of talents and abilities.  I loved the way that Showalter sets the scene for this story to begin. The plot does pick up pace pretty quickly, so no slow start for this one. The romance that blooms between Vika and Solo is pretty quick but not too quick to throw you off. I felt like it was very sweet and tender, and even though there is a level of intensity to the story, the romance isn’t so much. Its more slow and steady yet wonderful to witness their connection. The characters were very intriguing. Vika is deaf, but can read lips, and I loved seeing her character have a disability, it makes her seem more human. She seemed to me to be more passive at times, but definitely has a passion that becomes more evident as you read through the story. Overall a contagious romance that will set your heart at a faster speed, and take you on a adventure of passion, suspense, paranormal creatures, and a fantastically written story!!TOTALLY CAPTIVATING!!

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Black and Blue

On My Wishlist (69)

On My Wishlist is a fun weekly event hosted by Book Chick City and runs every Saturday. It’s where I list all the books I desperately want but haven’t actually bought yet. They can be old, new or forthcoming.

As King Robert the Bruce of Scotland plots to retake his English occupied castles, he needs the stealth and skill of his elite soldiers, the Highland Guard. Fearless and indomitable, no men are more loyal to their king, or cherished by the women they love.
 
The talents of legendary marksman Gregor “Arrow” MacGregor are crucial now, as Bruce moves to reclaim his Scottish holdings. Gregor is considered the most handsome man in Scotland, and his fame as an archer is rivaled only by his reputation with the lasses as a heartbreaker. But when his infamous face is exposed during a covert mission, Gregor is forced to lay low. He returns home only to find a new battle waiting: a daring game of seduction involving his now very grown up and very desirable ward, Cate of Lochmaben.

A born fighter, Cate was clinging to life when Gregor rescued her after a vicious English raid on her village left her mother dead. But five years later, the once scrappy orphan Gregor took under his protection has become a woman. Brave, strong, and skilled in warfare, Cate is determined to lay claim to the warrior who refuses to be trapped. The heat in his eyes tells her she has his attention . . . and his desire. But will Gregor allow his heart to surrender before danger finds them, and the truth of Cate’s identity is revealed?

Breaking up was never so hard…

Going undercover at Galaxy Brides as one of the prospective mates to these Viking-like barbarians, Morrigan has no intention of getting chosen to stay. But when Ualan of the Draig picks her to be his wife with the aid of his mystically glowing crystal, it is all she can do to say no.

Waking up from a drug-induced night of torturous and unfulfilling pleasures, Morrigan discovers her spaceship has left without her and Ualan is claiming she is his wife. It’s not exactly the story this reporter had in mind. And to make matters worse, Ualan refuses to take no for an answer.

Being cursed by the gods was never so frustrating…

Prince Ualan is like all others of his race on the male dominated planet of Qurilixen. He is raised to trust the mystic powers around him and when it comes time to marry, he is ready to follow those powers to choose his life mate. When the stubborn, yet achingly beautiful, Morrigan refuses to accept their shared fate and his supreme authority over her, it is all he can do not to break her lovely neck

A Daring Rescue Emma Paulsen is a geneticist driven by science. But she’s also a psychic, so when a dark, good-hearted vampire frees her from the clutches of the evil Kurjans, she realizes he must be the man who’s been haunting her dreams. But with a virus threatening vampires’ mates, Emma may discover a whole new meaning of “lovesick”.

A Deadly Decision As King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs has learned to practice diplomacy. Still, it’s taken three hundred years to find his mate, so he’ll stop at nothing to protect her—even if it means turning his back on his own kind..

At the King’s request, chieftain Alasdair MacDonald has sworn to preserve the peace in the Glen of Many Legends. Though he’s handsome and fearless, his warrior’s heart belongs only to his beloved land-until the fair sister of his oldest enemy shatters his defenses, branding his skin with a single touch, and sealing his fate with one stolen kiss . . .

Lady Marjory Mackintosh will do anything to unite the warring clans, even seduce Alasdair MacDonald. She has loved the rugged Highlander since she first saw him and now, as temptation leads to surrender, Marjory dares to possess him, body and soul. But a dangerous new menace enters the Glen, and he will stop at nothing to strip Alasdair of his honor-and the only woman who can claim his heart.

Audio Book-A Kiss At Midnight

A Kiss At Midnight
Fairy Tales (1)
Eloisa James
Harper Audio
Narrated By: Susan Duerdan
10 Hours and 39 Mins
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN:  9780061626845
Authors Website

Synopsis 
Miss Kate Daltry doesn’t believe in fairy tales . . . or happily ever after.

Forced by her stepmother to attend a ball, Kate meets a prince . . . and decides he’s anything but charming. A clash of wits and wills ensues, but they both know their irresistible attraction will lead nowhere. For Gabriel is promised to another woman—a princess whose hand in marriage will fulfill his ruthless ambitions.

Gabriel likes his fiancée, which is a welcome turn of events, but he doesn’t love her. Obviously, he should be wooing his bride-to-be, not the witty, impoverished beauty who refuses to fawn over him.

Godmothers and glass slippers notwithstanding, this is one fairy tale in which destiny conspires to destroy any chance that Kate and Gabriel might have a happily ever after.

Unless a prince throws away everything that makes him noble . . .

Unless a dowry of an unruly heart trumps a fortune . . .

Unless one kiss at the stroke of midnight changes everything

My Review 

A Kiss At Midnight is the first book in the Fairy Tale series that this amazing author has created for us. Now I have read most of the books in the series and have adored each and every one of them. I do have a weakness for the fairy tale theme, especially in the regency genre. For some reason, I had yet to have the opportunity to read this one. My favorite of the series was The Ugly Duckling, but I think this matches pretty close to it, as far as my enjoyment of the story goes. I was able to get this book for $5 on Audible on a daily deal they were having. Not too bad of a price for a audiobook.I found that I really liked the narrator and her accent used for this book was done very well. Although for some reason when I started reading this one, it didn’t seem like a Regency style romance, it seemed to be from a earlier time period. I might just be crazy, but that was the impression I gained while listening to this one. Another plus to this book is that it has a “royalty” theme to it as well. This story goes along the basis of “Cinderella” and with a godmother, who is witty and charming and contagious. Where can I find one of those? She definitely knows how to meddle at all the right times and places. The stepsister in the book is sweet however the stepmother is pretty awful. I found that the author matched this story with the story of Cinderella pretty well, but it definitely has the sort of theme that is very different than you would think. I loved seeing her creativeness in her writing turn this story into a marvelous romance that captured me from the first moment.

The story begins like you would expect in a Cinderella based romance. Kate’s father has died, and her stepmother has turned her into a servant and she is barely keeping the estate together. Her stepsister is going to be married, but her sister suffers from a physical issue, so she is forced to go in her place and dress and act like her sister with four little runts of dogs with her at all times. Then she meets the prince with whom she instantly dislikes. The prince in the beginning is very arrogant and conceited at times. He is a prince after all. We see two characters that in the beginning are in different phases, but as they start to really connect and passion flares between them; we start to see that they have a tender and sweet intimacy that the reader aches to have as well. They both come from very different past and circumstances, but I found that this story is based on the theme of Choosing what really matters, and everything else will fall into place.

A Kiss At Midnight is a truly wonderful romance that spins out a romance of delicious flavors, spicy scents and savory delights. A truly heart warming tale of glass slippers, princes, four mice.

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In Series 
When Beauty Tamed The Beast
The Duke Is Mine
The Ugly Duchess
Once Upon A Tower
 

Throwback Thursday (18) The Golden Barbarian

Throwback Thursday is a new meme hosted by Buried Under Romance and Love Saves The World, and since I just love Historical Romance I decided to participate.

What Is Throwback Thursday? Traditionally, Throwback Thursday celebrates nostalgia, asking participants to post a personal photo or image from their past–usually from 5 to 10 years ago. There are a lot of book blogs that also do a book related Throwback Thursday

Here Are The Rules: 1. It must be posted on a Thursday. 2. It must be a historical romance novel published before October 3, 2008

From the halls of a palatial prison to the hot sands of an endless desert…

Here is a timeless story of love and adventure set among hills of gold, warring tribes, and fabled kingdoms—the story of a fearless princess and a barbarian sheikh….

She was a ravishing pawn in a game of politics and passion…

Flaunting the oppressive destiny decreed for her by the kingdom of Tamrovia, Princess Theresa Christina Rubinoff struck a sensual bargain with a handsome barbarian chieftain. She vowed to play his seductive game, surrendering herself to his will, all the while determined to fight for her independence in a land that considered women only as playthings.

Mysterious as the desert night, rich as Midas, Galen ben Rashid swept Tess away to his palace in exotic Sedikhan, offering her freedom in exchange for the marriage that would join their kingdoms. A man surrounded by enemies, he would make her a slave to his passion in order to bind her to his side, little knowing that when he took the captivating princess as his bride, he would lose his heart.