Showing posts with label Victoria Dahl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Victoria Dahl. Show all posts

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Contemporary Minis: Sarah Mayberry, Victorial Dahl and more...

Happy Sunday! I hope all who celebrated Thanksgiving had a wonderful long weekend! I certainly did. Today I've grouped four recent contemporary romance reads from Harlequin and am sharing them via mini-impressions -- two recent releases and two older ones. The grades range from B+ to B- so they all turned out to be enjoyable reads for different reasons.

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All They Need by Sarah Mayberry

I really enjoy Sarah Mayberry's contemporary romances, but I was hesitant to read All They Need because well... it deals with Alzheimer's and that kind of hits home. However, Mayberry seems to explore these serious subjects with sensitivity and in the end that's what changed my mind. It was an emotional read for me and of course that touch of realism hit me hard, but the romance balanced it out. That's what Mayberry does so well.

Mel and Flynn's romance develops nice and slow. Flynn is a heck of a guy. At times I thought he was too perfect, but that's not necessarily true. I think it's good that he shows his self-absorbed side at the beginning because for the rest of the story, he's pretty much understanding, sweet, passionate and loving. Mel? Well, Mel has been traumatized by her marriage and the psychological abuse her ex-husband dished out during all that time. She's not ready for a long term relationship, and although she allows passion to rule her relationship with Flynn, her heart and head are another matter. That becomes the real conflict between them. Lack of trust and real emotion. I had a couple of issues with this romance, mainly to do with Mel's change of heart and unseen character growth. However overall, I found this to be another solid contemporary romance by Ms. Mayberry. (Harlequin, November 1, 2011): Grade B

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Real Men Will (Donovan Brothers Brewery #3) by Victoria Dahl

I liked Eric Donovan when I first met him in Good Girls Don't. I know... I know... he was tough on the kids (and kids they were, and to me they still are at the end of this series if you go by their immature and self-centered regressive behavior), but to me both those kids needed a good kick in the butt. True, he didn't always handle things correctly, but then when taking into consideration the circumstances he did the best he could and should have been admired for it. His siblings didn't really seem to appreciate Eric's position and that was a real shame. But anyway... enough about the frustrating sibling relationship and on to the romance.

I was happy that Eric found himself a woman, and Beth was definitely good for him. Their relationship began as a one night stand based on a lie, and later on continued as a steamy and sensual sexual relationship between adults that slowly developed into more. These two people had baggage and they both had to struggle to make a complex relationship a success, so as it turned out it was even sweeter when at the end it did. This was a highly enjoyable contemporary for me because I really liked both central characters and their romance. (HQN Books, October 25, 2011): Grade B+

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I also read two contemporary category romances that are older releases, but turned out to be quite fun! The first one is Sex, Straight Up by Kathleen O'Reilly (Blaze #388), the second book in the Those Sexy O'Sullivan's trilogy and Daniel O'Sullivan's story. I was really surprised at how good and sexy this story turned out and I liked it more than the first book. Why? Well, mainly because Daniel is a widower still grieving for his wife who died during the World Trade Center attacks on 9/11 and he was so reluctant to let her go. However, in this book (as opposed to the first one where the male was the only reason for my grade) the female character, Catherine Montefiore, made a difference and provided balance. She turned everything around and made this story really work for me. I found this one to be a sexy, emotional and satisfying read. (Harlequin, April 1, 2008): Grade B

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The other book is By the Book by Nancy Warren (Blaze #85). Now this one was fluffy, fun and just what I needed to read at the time. Shari decides she's going to have a hot date and maybe a night with the hunky downstairs neighbor, but when she sees that he sent for a book with the title "Sex for Total Morons" she changes her mind. Luke is not about to let her, so he asks her to help him get through part of the book, and hmm.. she becomes his tutor -- just for the first few chapters. Riiiight! Of course, we all know who wrote the book, yes? This one turned out to be a book where characters have lots of preconceived ideas on all sides, with lots of fun dialogue, funny situations and sexy circumstances. As I said above, fluffy, fun and read at just the right moment. (Harlequin, May 1, 2003): Grade B-

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Impressions: Good Girls Don't by Victoria Dahl

Too much of a good thing…
With her long ponytail and sparkling green eyes, Tessa Donovan looks more like the girl next door than a businesswoman—or a heartbreaker. Which may explain why Detective Luke Asher barely notices her when he arrives to investigate a break–in at her family's brewery. He's got his own problems—starting with the fact that his partner, Simone, is pregnant and everyone thinks he's the father.

Tessa has her hands full, too. Her brother's playboy ways may be threatening the business, and the tension could tear her tight–knit family apart. In fact, the only thing that could unite the Donovan boys is seeing a man come after their "baby" sister. Especially a man like Luke Asher. But Tessa sees past the rumors to the man beneath. He's not who people think he is—and neither is she.
Good Girls Don't by Victoria Dahl is a solid contemporary romance with excellent secondary characters. The central characters are the focus, even when the others make an impact. The main female protagonist is a bit immature, but is both fun and passionate. The dialogue and situations are amusing and keep the reader engaged. There were enough conflicts, both internal and external, to keep me interested in the story from beginning to end.

I loved the scenes between Tessa and Luke, they sizzled with passion and steam. Luke was a man worth having and I love the fact that he doesn't care when the brothers' interfere. He respects them, specially Eric, but not enough to give up the budding relationship he has going with Tessa. (LOL on the virgin scene). I loved that he stood up for his partner too without making excuses or having to give up that relationship for anyone.

Tessa is a first class manipulator and control freak and that's the main crux of her problem in this story. Manipulation and control that come by way of her fear of losing those she loves. She begins small throughout her life until she goes too far. Although fun and a bit of a contradiction because Tessa seems to be a rather sexy and independent woman on the surface, her character tends to be frustrating because of her tendency toward those immature actions and reactions, however, Dahl works out those issues satisfactorily in the end for Tessa and Luke.

Eric and Jamie are both strong and compelling secondary characters. Jamie as the spoiled and rather immature younger brother, fighting to show that he can and has changed, and Eric as the older brother that not only took charge of the business when his parents died in a tragic accident, but raised both his siblings and now has a problem letting go of that parental role.

Overall this is a contemporary romance that I enjoyed reading from beginning to end because of its mostly engaging characters and interesting, amusing circumstances. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in this contemporary series, Bad Boys Do.

Category: Contemporary Romance
Series: Donovan Brothers Brewery
Publisher/Release Date: HQN Books/August 30, 2011
Grade: B

Visit Victoria Dahl here.

Series:
Good Girls Don't, Book 1
Bad Boys Do, Book 2 (Releases September 27, 2011)

ETA: Thanks to Leslie for her thorough review, it convinced me to read this book. :)

Monday, September 5, 2011

New Releases: September 2011

Hey, two posts in one day! I've been away and missed you all... but I've had a few family emergencies that have kept me away from it all lately. We all had a tough month trying to deal with the facts of life and death after a family member was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early in August and passed away this last week. I've been away from home for almost a week again and just got back. I hope to catch up with all of you soon after I recuperate and get some much needed rest.

But first, well... I haven't highlighted new releases during this whole crazy, busy summer that took over this year. However, summer is almost over and there are quite a few books in September that I'm looking forward to reading and would love to highlight.

As always I read and look forward to a lot more than the books that I feature in my posts, but I do like to feature a good mixture of the books that I read during the month. Here I go:

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Title: Demon Marked by Meljean Brook (Guardian Series, #7)
Release Date: September 6, 2011
Publisher: Berkley
Category: Paranormal Romance
Nicholas St. Croix is familiar with the evil of demons. After his father’s death, a demon took over his mother’s body and raised him. Six years ago, his “mother” was responsible for the disappearance of the woman he loved, and Nicholas swore he’d find her—even if he had to go to Hell and back. Except she finds him first—and with one tormented kiss, he knows she too is a demon. Now he is determined to take his revenge…

Ash is a half-demon with no memory of her past or how she got to Hell. All she knows is that Nicholas St. Croix holds the key to her identity. And though he’s clearly drawn to her, Nicholas makes no secret of his distrust of her. Yet one kiss at a time, he breaks down her defenses as they battle an array of demons and Guardians. But is Ash’s greatest enemy the man at her side?
I love, love this paranormal series by Meljean Brook! It's one of my top two favorite PNR series and I've found myself anxiously awaiting this book's release this whole year. I heard that an end to this series has been announced and as much as I love it, I'm fine with that. I prefer a good ending to a great series, than a slow and tortuous death. For me, this is a series that hasn't lost its momentum or appeal. I will read this book as soon as it hits my Kindle on September 6th!

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Title: Kissing Comfort by Jo Goodman
Release Date: September 6, 2011
Publisher: Berkley
Category: Historical Romance
Bode DeLong knows that his playboy brother Bram isn't really in love with Miss Comfort Kennedy, even though it's clear that she's enamored with him. With Bram's motives for the engagement suspect, Bode figures the safest place for Comfort to be is in his arms. Now, Bode just needs to convince Comfort that the childhood fancy she has for his brother is no match for the incredible desire that sparks between them every time they touch.
I love my western historical romances (although I don't read nearly enough of them!) and Jo Goodman is one of those authors whose new releases I look forward to reading. Kissing Comfort has been on my list for a while and will definitely be read this month.

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Title: Speaking Out: LGBTQ Youth Stand Up edited by Steve Berman
Release Date: September 20, 2011
Publisher: Bold Stroke Books, Inc.
Category: LGBTQ Young Adult - Anthology
Speaking Out features stories for and about LGBT and Q teens by fresh voices and noted authors in the field of young adult literature. These are inspiring stories of overcoming adversity (against intolerance and homophobia) and experiencing life after "coming out." Queer teens need tales of what might happen next in their lives, and editor Steve Berman showcases a diversity of events, challenges, and, especially, triumphs.
This is an anthology that looks great not only because the authors involved are really excellent writers, but because of the content and its importance and relevance for LGBTQ young adults. I'm looking forward to reading all the stories... but hey, some favorite authors are included: Rigoberto González (From Macho to Mariposa Anthology), Alex Jeffers (The Abode of Bliss), Steve Berman (Vintage: A Ghost Story), Jeffrey Ricker (Fool for Love Anthology and New Normal), and Sandra McDonald (Diana Comet and Other Improbable Stories). I'm looking forward to "discovering" new favorites in there too.

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Title: Snowflakes and Stetsons by Jillian Hart, Carol Finch and Cheryl St. John
Release Date: September 20, 2011 (October 1, 2011)
Publisher: Harlequin
Category: Historical Romance - Holiday Anthology
The Cowboy's Christmas Miracle by Jillian Hart

Wrongly imprisoned, Caleb McGraw is finally free—but the bitterness he holds still makes him feel trapped. Until he sees the beautiful Caroline holding a little boy with eyes just like his own. Discovering his long-lost son is just the start of Caleb's Christmas miracles!

Christmas at Cahill Crossing by Carol Finch

One Christmas night, outcast Lucas Burnett finds a silver-haired angel buried in the snow. But Rosalie Greer is no pale spirit—she's a fiery, independent woman, as wild as the mustangs Lucas breeds. Can she be the one to finally thaw Lucas's frozen heart?

A Magical Gift at Christmas by Cheryl St.John

Meredith has always dreamed of a grand life but, stranded on a train in heavy snowfall with two young stowaways, she unexpectedly finds she has everything she needs with just one strong man to protect her….
Again, I love my westerns, and a good cozy, warm holiday story set in the historical west does it for me too. This anthology features a story by Cheryl St. John, and well... she has become a favorite author for me in the past couple of years because she writes those wonderful Harlequin historical westerns so full of love and warmth and that makes this a read to look forward to already. I haven't read anything by Carol Finch or Jillian Hart before, so those will be new-to-me authors this year and I always look forward to "discovering" those. :)

Note: I have TWO release dates for this book. Well... I found two of them and it can be a bit confusing... Goodreads has September 20th and Amazon has October 1st. I usually go with Amazon's release date, but if you're interested in reading this anthology I suggest you begin looking for it after September 20th. 

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Title: a + ɘ 4EVER by I. Merey
Release Date: September 25, 2011
Publisher: Lethe Press
Category: LGBTQ Young Adult - Graphic Novel
Asher Machnik is a teenage boy cursed with a beautiful androgynous face, boys punch him girls slag him and by high school he's developed an intense fear of being touched. Art remains his only escape from an otherwise emotionally empty life.

Eulalie Mason is the lonely, tough-talking dyke from school who befriends Ash. The only one to see and accept all of his sides as a loner, a fellow artist and a best friend, she's starting to wonder if Ash is ever going to see all of her...

a + ɘ 4EVER is a graphic novel set in that ambiguous crossroads where love and friendship, boy and girl, straight and gay meet. It goes where few books have ventured, into genderqueer life, where affections aren't black and white.
This is an LGBTQ young adult graphic novel I have for review from Lethe Press. I haven't read a graphic novel in a long while, this one just looks really good. I've skimmed it a few times, but I'm really looking forward to settling down and reading it from beginning to end.

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Title: Bad Boys Do (Donovan Brothers Brewery #2) by Victoria Dahl
Release Date: September 27, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin
Category: Contemporary Romance
Olivia Bishop is no fun. That’s what her ex-husband said. That’s what her smart bob and glasses imply. And with her trademark determination, Olivia sets out to remake her life. She’s going to spend time with her girlfriends and not throw it all away for some man. But when an outing with her book club leads her to a brewery taproom, the dark-haired beauty realizes that trouble – in the form of sexy Jamie Donovan – may be too tempting to avoid.

Jamie Donovan doesn’t mean to be bad. Sure, the wild streak in his wicked green eyes has lured the ladies before. But it’s time to grow up. He’s even ready for a serious romance. But how can that be when Olivia, the only right woman he has ever met, already has him pegged as wrong.
Have you read the first book in this contemporary romance series? It's Good Girls Don't, and it's definitely a solid and true contemporary romance -- when I say "true" I mean nothing chic lit(ty) about it. I'm really encouraged by the fact that I've read a few of those this year. I DO love my women's fiction... and a good "chic lit(ty)" book hits the spot here and there, but, but, but... contemporary romance novels are my bread and butter, my chicken soup, my comfort reads, my all time favorites and I've MISSED THEM!! So this is a good thing. :D

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What about you? What books are you looking forward to reading in September? Any good recommendations?

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Review: Crazy for Love by Victoria Dahl

Chloe Turner thought she was going to marry the perfect man--until her fiancé's plane crashed. And then she got the really bad news: he'd tried to fake his own death to avoid marrying her. Now America's most famous bridezilla (a tag she most definitely does not deserve), Chloe escapes to a remote island to avoid the paparazzi. And right next door is a man who just might be the cure for Chloe's heartache....

A magnet for wild, complicated women, Max Sullivan is relieved to have finally found someone "normal." Chloe is his girl-next-door fantasy come to life, and best of all, she gets him. With her, he can be himself, a treasure-hunting millionaire who desperately wants out of his sexy but reckless job. But when Chloe's notoriety catches up with them, will their torrid romance make it to the mainland?
Crazy for Love is Victoria Dahl's latest contemporary romance. This was a fun story. I seem to be reading a lot of these lately.

Chloe is being pursued by the paparazzi after her fiancé faked his death in a plane crash to avoid marrying her -- supposedly because she was such a crazy bridezilla. After a month of mayhem, Chloe's best friend Jenn takes her on a weekend getaway to an island to get her away from the press and she meets Max. On the surface, Max seems to be the ultimate self-confident man -- a treasure hunter and sophisticated world traveller. Max and his brother Elliott are at the island for a week's getaway so that the recently divorced and self-acknowledged workaholic Elliott can learn how to relax. As it turns out, the one who really needs to learn how to relax is Max. The man is neurotic with control issues. He worries about and feels responsible for everyone he meets, therefore he MUST keep those around him safe. It's exhausting for him to maintain a careless façade and to constantly manipulate everyone into safety.

I enjoyed this book for the most part . What did I like? The way Chloe figures out, understands and accepts Max's neurosis. I think that was the best part of the story for me. There's also great chemistry between them as a couple and their dialogue kept me interested.

Max? Well, he was both adorable and exhausting! As a character, he was a mixed bag -- I thought he was sexy one minute and felt sorry for him the next.  Half the time I wasn't sure if he really fell in love Chloe or with the fact that Chloe figured him out and he could be himself with her.

Poor Chloe! The woman has to deal with all types of betrayal, but she's strong even when it seems like she's fall apart in the midst of the craziness going on in her life. She's really is a great character: witty, smart and likable. Chloe is just what Max needs, and frankly she made this book a good read for me. I enjoyed the dialogue whenever she was on the page.

There's a secondary storyline between Max's brother Elliott and Chloe's best friend Jenn. This storyline is good in that it supports that of the main characters and the overall story, although there were moments when it did take the main focus away from Max and Chloe.

A quick, light read with interesting and vastly different characters falling in love in the midst of mayhem.

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: None
Release Date: July 1, 2010
Source: Received from Tabitha- Tabz Book Blog - Thanks Tabs!
Grade: B

Visit Victoria Dahl here.