Mad About The Duke by Elizabeth Boyle

Setting: Regency

*The second book in The Bachelor Chronicles: The Standon Widows trilogy*

Summary:

Level-headed Lady Elinor Standon will not allow her greedy stepfather to wed her younger sister to the highest bidder! The only way to stop this evil plan is for Elinor to to gain control of her sister’s guardianship, but to do that she needs to get married. Convinced that nothing less than a duke will do, she hires Mr. St. Maur, Esq. to help her land her lofty lord… However her plans go awry as she discovers that beneath her solicitor’s rumpled coat and haughty demeanor is a man all-too-desirable to ignore and she finds herself falling for more than his unconventional legal advice.

James Tremont, the ninth Duke of Parkerton, is astonished by the freedom and anonymity he’s gained simply by donning his brother’s ill-fitting jacket, especially when an exquisite, peer-hunting beauty mistakes him for a solicitor… Now he finds himself tangled up by more than her legal woes. For until he can undo the straight-laced yet delectable Elinor, his identity must remain a mystery—because by not having revealed it immediately, this dedicated bachelor may have already sabotaged his one chance for the madness of finding his one true love.

Click cover for more info!

Review:

I really wanted to like this book. I really did. I bought the book, without having read any of the author’s previous books, based on the blurb (who doesn’t love a classic mistaken identity story?) and the cover/stepback (simply gorgeous!) and in this case I have to say I learned my lesson-NEVER judge a book by its cover! This book was like a creamy dessert that looks amazing and is amazing for the first couple of bites but ends up having a bad taste in your mouth.

What a brilliant premise! Hero disguised as a low class solicitor helping the desperate heroine to find a rich husband, but ends up falling for her himself. But so badly pulled off. I felt like the author was rushing to fulfil her book contract and didn’t bother thinking the story through. There were so many plot holes and so many ‘What the heck’ moments, I was quite tempted to just stop reading altogether! I held on though, thinking things would get better, but they sadly didn’t.

One of the biggest plot holes was the fact that NOBODY recognized the duke even though his ‘disguise’ was a worn out, shabby coat he borrowed from his brother. This could have actually worked IF he had been in the country, but there he was in London of all places walking around in this ‘disguise’ I found it unbelievable no one recognized him! Then there was the fact that if the hero had simply told the heroine right at the start he was a duke (exp since they both fell in love at first sight) and could solve her problems, the problem would be solved and there would be no need for the whole book to happen! If only there had been a few tweaks here and there-the story would have been much more plausible. I simply didn’t get why the he didn’t confess to her until about halfway through when we are given a paltry excuse that the hero was badly hurt by his first wife and then we are never given details and it doesn’t go deeper than that.

Then, there was the predictable misunderstanding fight-though it wasn’t about the heroine discovering the hero’s identity, but the alternative was much worse. Why, Elinor, why oh why? You claim to love the hero and then suddenly abandon your faith in him and believe your EVIL stepdad when he tells you he’s a liar and a fake???

Now, I’m not saying the entire book was a mess-there were brilliant parts-in particular, the writing was a joy and I loved the author’s wit and sense of humour-in fact, if it weren’t for the writing, I might have given up long ago! Some of the side characters and scenes were entertaining as well, and I must add that even though this was part of a long series, you didn’t have to read the others to understand this one-it managed to stand alone. I also really liked the hero, despite his stupidity at certain times, and the heroine was a nice enough character, except the believing-the-evil-stepdad thing.

All in all, this was such a great opportunity missed, thanks to bad plotting. I hope your next book is better, Ms. Boyle.

Sensuality Rating: Warm (Love scenes are short and non explicit)

Verdict: Don’t bother-unless you like collecting pretty covers and sexy stepbacks

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Another delicious cover!

Click cover to view excerpt!

Summary:

By candlelight, she lures him…

Glittering court socialites and underworld cutpurses alike know that Adrian Ferrers, Earl of Rivenham, is the most dangerous man in London. Rivenham will let nothing—not the deepening shadow of war, nor the growing darkness within him—interfere with his ambition to restore his family to its former glory. But when tasked by the king to uncover a traitor, he discovers instead a conspiracy—and a woman whose courage awakens terrible temptations. To save her is to risk everything. To love her might cost his life.

At swordpoint she defies him…

Lady Leonora knows that Rivenham is the devil in beautiful disguise—and that the irresistible tension between them is as unpredictable as the dilemma in which Nora finds herself: held hostage on her own estate by Rivenham and the king’s men. But when war breaks out, Nora has no choice but to place her trust in her dearest enemy—and pray that love does not become the weapon that destroys them both…

RELEASE DATE: MARCH 27, 2012

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS! :D

 

To Wed a Wild Lord by Sabrina Jeffries Book Trailer!

Coming to bookstores on November 22, the next book in Sabrina’s Hellions series!

Click cover for more info!

Trailer

Published in: on November 17, 2011 at 12:07 PM  Leave a Comment  
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Delilah Marvelle’s September Video Newsletter!

Delilah’s one of my fave authors and I absolutely ADORE her novels! Which makes me so glad that she has a Youtube channel, where she posts videos on what’s she’s been up to AND we get sneak peeks into the life a successful romance author! :D

This is her video newsletter for December which features the recent RWA event, RomCom and Delilah in New York researching for her upcoming books. After you’re done watching, why not check out some of the other videos on her channel? ;)

Delilah’s Youtube channel:

http://www.youtube.com/user/DelilahMarvelle

And don’t forget to look out for her new book coming December 20, 2011

Click cover for more info!

Delilah’s Marvelle’s New Free Novella

By now, you all probably know how much I love Delilah Marvelle and her sexy, hilarious romances! Her new Rumor series is due out starting next year, but before that, she’s giving us a sneak peek into the series through an all new prequel! And the best part? It’s all free! Check out the gorgeous cover below!

Click cover to view excerpt!

Delilah’s Introductory Note:

Dear Reader,
In this Prequel, you will be introduced to a series of events that will drag you steadily closer to the truth behind a most
ominous rumor.  Rumor has it that in the year of 1800, a ten year old boy, British heir to the Sumner estate disappeared in New York City & was never seen again.  Rumor also has it that 30 years later, details pertaining to his disappearance
have resurfaced.  What will it lead to?
Only you, the reader, will ever know.  
Happy Reading,

Delilah Marvelle

Victoria Alexander’s New Book and Trailer!

I love book trailers and when I saw the delicious new trailer, actually more like a mini-movie, I couldn’t help getting excited for this new release! Check out cover, blurb and trailer below!

Summary:

For three years, Lady Veronica Smithson has been perfectly happy as a widow–and thoroughly independent. Still, the right gentleman could provide the benefits of marriage without the tedious restrictions. And in Sir Sebastian Hadley-Attwater, renowned explorer and rogue, Veronica is sure she has found him.

Sebastian will come into his inheritance in a matter of weeks–if his family deems him responsible enough. There’s no better way to prove his maturity than with a wife. But though Veronica will share his bed, she refuses to marry. However, Sebastian has a plan: An intimate sojourn at his new country house will surely change Veronica’s mind. For Sebastian never takes no for an answer. And he intends to persuade his Christmas mistress that they belong together–in this, and every season to come. . .

Click cover to pre-order from Amazon

DUE OUT SEPTEMBER 27, 2011 in HARDCOVER

Romances Coming in July 2011!

Summer is here! (Or winter depending on where you live) and there are loads of juicy new books to keep you occupied in the summer heat (or the winter chill)! :D Lots of anticipated books in popular series and even a juicy new anthology! These covers are gorgeous!

1) Out July 1

Summary:

Lady Julianne Gatewick is in a pickle. It started when her brother’s best friend—for whom she’s long nursed a secret tendre—agreed to act as her guardian for the Season, only to seduce her with a risqué waltz.

But when the music stopped and the expectant ton waited for the Earl of Hawkfield to claim her as his own, he made his disinterest clear. Rather than succumb to humiliation, Julianne does what any recently discarded, wickedly witty young miss would do. She secretly pens a lady’s guide to enticing unrepentant rakes . . . and it becomes the hottest scandal in London.

Every honorable rake knows that friends’ sisters are forbidden. But suddenly Julianne has a spark of mischief in her eyes that Hawk can’t resist. Try as he might to push her away, he spends his days listening for her laughter and his nights dreaming of her kisses. He’s always avoided innocents and their marriage-minded mothers, but has the man least likely to wed finally met his match?

Click cover to read excerpt!

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2) Out July 5 *Book Two in Rebellious Sons series*

Summary:

All Blake Montague wants is to save Europe from a tyrant. But as the penniless youngest son of a baron, he needs a marriage of convenience to provide the money he requires for a military commission. Then he meets a blonde beauty who can fulfill all his needs-especially those satisfied by a wife…

Click cover to read excerpt!

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3) Out July 12 *Book Three in Mistress Trilogy* HARDCOVER

Summary:

While Lady Angeline Dudley’s pedigree dictates that she must land a titled gentleman, the irrepressible beauty secretly longs for a simple, ordinary suitor. No wild rakes like the men of her family, just a kind heart and good nature. So when Edward Ailsbury, the new Earl of Heyward, rescues her with unmatched civility from the advances of a scoundrel, Angeline thinks that she has found her true love. Persuading the earl is another matter entirely.

Edward has his future neatly mapped out. He hopes to wed his steadfast companion, a woman who shares his values of loyalty, respect, and decorum. But arriving in London to take his seat in the House of Lords, he is derailed by Angeline, an exquisite bird of paradise seemingly devoted to sending his predictable life into chaos.

From the brilliant hues of her fashion to her hoydenish antics, Angeline is the last woman on earth for Edward. And yet a stolen kiss in the moonlight awakens something deep and primal within him. Naturally, being a gentleman, he does the right thing after compromising a lady: He offers marriage.

Angeline knows that Edward’s proposal is born of duty, not love. But denying something so provocative and passionate is easier said than done. Deep down, Angeline believes that Edward’s dedication to convention will melt behind closed doors, where sensuality and seduction play wicked games. For a proper wife by day can become a husband’s secret mistress by night, when delicious desire rules.

Click cover to order from Amazon!

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4) Out July 26 *Book Four in The Scandalous Women of the Ton series*

Summary:

Devlin has always been a rogue but now he is ready to settle down. He has chosen a rich, beautiful heiress to marry and his sister Francesca has ensnared the heir to a dukedom. Everything is going well for the fortune-hunting Devlin siblings.

Then the mysterious Susanna Burney arrives in London. Not only does she threaten Francesca’s future, she holds secrets about Devlin’s past that no one must ever know. Devlin knows that he has to remove the threat that Susanna poses and so begins a game of skill and seduction between them that rapidly escalates into a fiery and passionate affair. But when Devlin and Susanna finally confront their shared past, will it hold the key to their future? 

Click cover for excerpt and more info!

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5) Out July 26 *Book Three in Burgundy Club trilogy*

Summary:

Being kidnapped teaches Miss Celia Seaton a few things about life

LESSON ONE

Never disrobe in front of a gentleman … unless his request comes at gunpoint.

LESSON TWO

If, when lost on the moors, you encounter Tarquin Compton, the leader of London society who ruined your marriage prospects, deny any previous acquaintance.

LESSON THREE

If offered an opportunity to get back at Mr. Compton, the bigger the lie, the better. A faux engagement should do nicely.

LESSON FOUR

Not all knowledge is found between the covers of a book. But an improper book may further your education in ways you never guessed.

Click cover to read excerpt!

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6) Out July 26 *Book Five in the Byrons of Braebourne series

Summary:

Lord Drake Byron has no time in his busy life to worry about taking a wife. He is more interested in the unbreakable code he has developed to defeat Napoleon’s forces. Little does he know that the irresistibly lovely new housekeeper he’s hired is really a French secret agent.

Sebastianne Dumont is not at all who she seems to be. Forced to spy to save her family, she embarks on a mission that takes an even more dangerous turn when she falls in love with the surprisingly tempting man she must ultimately betray. And if she succeeds in her mission, will she also break Lord Drake’s heart, while leaving her own behind?

Click cover for more info

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7) Out July 26 *Book Two in Fraternitas trilogy

Summary:

Anais de Rohan was raised from childhood to become a Guardian—a covert warrior trained in the ways of a secret militia so ancient its existence is believed mere legend. When Anais presents herself for initiation, however, her male compatriots are impressed with nothing save her hot temper and dark allure.

But when one of the St. James Society’s darkest, most enigmatic leaders challenges Anais to prove herself, she boldly accepts. Courting ruin to pose as Lord Bessett’s new bride, Anais must travel with the handsome, ruthless nobleman on a mission to save one of their own—a little girl with frightening gift—from danger.

But as intrigue swirls about them, drawing them ever closer, Anais begins to realize that their mission is hardly the only challenge she faces, for Lord Bessett is proving a temptation too hard to resist. As for Bessett himself—well, he might be a soldier sworn to the Society, but he certainly isn’t anyone’s saint . . .

Click cover to read excerpt!

***

8 ) Out July 26

Summary:

Serena Donovan left London six years ago, her heart broken and her reputation ruined by devilishly handsome Jonathan Dane. Now, with her family’s future in peril, she reluctantly agrees to return to England and assume her late twin’s identity. The price? Marry a man she doesn’t love and spend the rest of her days living a lie.

Jonathan Dane, Earl of Stratford, has become an incorrigible rake, drinking, gambling-and trying to forget Serena Donovan. Yet the moment he’s introduced to the prim and proper “Meg,” he recognizes the sensual young woman who captured his heart. Haunted by his past mistakes, he refuses to lose Serena again. But convincing her to trust him is no easy task. Claiming his lost love means exposing the truth and destroying the life Serena has sacrificed everything to rebuild. With the future of all the Donovans at stake, and their undying passion capable of triggering yet another scandal, how much will Jonathan and Serena risk for a chance at true love?

Click cover for excerpt and more info!

***

9) Out July 26 *Book Three in The Billingham Bastards series*

Summary:

He was everything she’d ever dreamed of . . . And then he was gone.

It hasn’t been easy for Marah Farnsworth to get over Caleb Talbot, the man who broke her heart. She’s done her best, sequestering herself in the sleepy English countryside while convincing herself she’d be happy marrying someone else. And she’s quite nearly succeeded—when she returns to London . . . and comes face to face with the man who abandoned her all those years ago.

Caleb believed he was doing the honorable thing when he disappeared from Marah’s life. The shocking truth about his scandalous origins made him unfit to wed. But now, one glimpse of her has again lit a fire in his heart…and letting another man have her would be unthinkable. However, winning back Marah’s love may prove the most difficult endeavor the handsome scoundrel has ever undertaken.

Click cover to order from Amazon!

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10) Out July 26 *Book One in Forgotten Princesses series*

Summary:

One of the most notoriously eligible bachelors in Europe is finally ready to marry . . .

For fiercely independent Grier Hadley, being the illegitimate daughter of one of London’s most unsavory characters has only one advantage: an enormous, ill-gotten dowry.

Prince Sevastian Maksimi knows where his duty lies: he must find a well-bred young lady—one with a considerable fortune to her name—wed her promptly, and get to the business of producing an heir.

The last thing Grier needs is some unattainable prince curling her toes with his smoldering glances and wicked suggestions. As far as Sev is concerned, she lacks the breeding to become a princess. And yet one kiss from this arresting female is all it takes for him to realize that anyone else in his arms would be unthinkable . . .

Click cover to order from Amazon!

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11) Out July 26 *Book One in Blackthorn Brothers series*

Summary:

Meet the Blackthorn brothers— Three unrepentant scoundrels infamous for being mad, bad and perilous to love

Charming, wealthy and wickedly handsome, Oliver “Beau” Blackthorn has it all…except revenge on the enemy he can’t forget. Now the opportunity for retribution has fallen into his hands. But his success hinges on Lady Chelsea Mills–Beckman—the one woman with the power to distract him from his quest.

Desperate to escape her family’s control, Lady Chelsea seizes the chance to run off with the notorious eldest Blackthorn brother, knowing she’s only a pawn in his game. But as Beau draws her deep into a world of intrigue, danger and explosive passion, does she dare hope he’ll choose love over vengeance?

Click cover to read excerpt!

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12) Out July 26 *Book Three in Regency Rogues series*

Summary:

A dedicated Young Corinthian agent, James Marlowe accepts the riskiest of missions—go undercover as a traitor and infiltrate a deadly French crime organization. As he heads to Paris, he is prepared for all matters of intrigue—everything but a surprise encounter with the only woman he ever has loved. Five years ago, the exquisitely stunning Clarissa Collins spurned his love, breaking his heart in the process. Now, the accomplished painter is in peril up to her lovely neck and only he can protect her.

Blackmailed by a mysterious man who threatens to destroy her world, Lady Clarissa cannot imagine a crueler fate. Until she is reunited with James Marlowe, the enthralling man who seduced Clarissa body and soul, then betrayed her. Despite the hurt and misunderstanding that still simmers between them, their enduring passion ignites anew, leaving the two breathless with desire and need. With their lives and England’s safety hanging in the balance, they have little choice but to put the past behind them and work together to save everything they hold dear. As they attempt to escape the clutches of the malicious forces holding them, can Clarissa and James find their way back to each other hearts…this time forever?

Click cover for more info!

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13) Out July 26 *ANTHOLOGY*

Summary:

“To Match a Thief” by Maggie Robinson

Ex-pickpocket Sir Simon Keith can now afford the best of everything. But London’s most-desired courtesan is his lost love Lucy. Now Simon will need his wits and his considerably large…wiles to win his way back into her bed—and into her heart.

“Hair Trigger Palace” by Diane Whiteside

He rules Colorado’s most glittering gambling palace. Justin Talbot never does something for nothing. If daring Boston aristocrat Charlotte Morland needs his protection from a dangerous enemy, he’ll make her business his pleasure…

“A Knack for Trouble” by Mia Marlowe

Lord Aidan Stonemere didn’t go from prison to a title by playing by society’s rules. If he wants something, he takes it. Rosalinde Burke didn’t object to being taken. Once. To keep her from marrying a proper viscount, Aidan will do whatever it takes to remind her how deliciously good being improper feels…

Click cover for excerpt and more info!

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HAPPY SUMMER OF READING! :D

Published in: on June 26, 2011 at 5:58 PM  Leave a Comment  
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July Preview: Improper Heroes/Heroines!

Looks like along with summer heat, we’ve got a selection of very improper heroes and one very improper bride! :P

Check out next month’s scandalous reads that’s sure to heat up your summer…

Jennifer Haymore‘s new book!

Confessions of an Improper Bride

Click cover for excerpt!

Summary:

Serena Donovan left London six years ago, her heart broken and her reputation ruined by devilishly handsome Jonathan Dane. Now, with her family’s future in peril, she reluctantly agrees to return to England and assume her late twin’s identity. The price? Marry a man she doesn’t love and spend the rest of her days living a lie.

Jonathan Dane, Earl of Stratford, has become an incorrigible rake, drinking, gambling-and trying to forget Serena Donovan. Yet the moment he’s introduced to the prim and proper “Meg,” he recognizes the sensual young woman who captured his heart. Haunted by his past mistakes, he refuses to lose Serena again. But convincing her to trust him is no easy task. Claiming his lost love means exposing the truth and destroying the life Serena has sacrificed everything to rebuild. With the future of all the Donovans at stake, and their undying passion capable of triggering yet another scandal, how much will Jonathan and Serena risk for a chance at true love?

RELEASE DATE: JULY 26, 2011

And check out that steamy stepback-now isn’t that perfect for summer? ;)

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And then we have 3 very improper gentlemen waiting to be introduced-move over you pampered dukes and earls, these men are street-smart, earthy and oh so sexy…

Improper Gentlemen Anthology

Click cover for excerpt!

Summary:

Unsuitable. Forbidden. Oh-so-seductive. These gentlemen are hardly respectable. But they are the very best at being bad… What more could a lady want?

“To Match a Thief” by Maggie Robinson

Ex-pickpocket Sir Simon Keith can now afford the best of everything. But London’s most-desired courtesan is his lost love Lucy. Now Simon will need his wits and his considerably large…wiles to win his way back into her bed—and into her heart.

“Hair Trigger Palace” by Diane Whiteside

He rules Colorado’s most glittering gambling palace. Justin Talbot never does something for nothing. If daring Boston aristocrat Charlotte Morland needs his protection from a dangerous enemy, he’ll make her business his pleasure…

“A Knack for Trouble” by Mia Marlowe

Lord Aidan Stonemere didn’t go from prison to a title by playing by society’s rules. If he wants something, he takes it. Rosalinde Burke didn’t object to being taken. Once. To keep her from marrying a proper viscount, Aidan will do whatever it takes to remind her how deliciously good being improper feels…

RELEASE DATE: JULY 26, 2011

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The Countess by Lynsay Sands

Setting: Regency

*The first book in the Madison Sisters trilogy*

Summary:

The fairy tale courtship did not turn into a happily ever after…

Not until her husband dropped dead, that is. He had been horrible enough to Christiana during their short marriage, and she was not going to allow the traditional period of mourning to ruin her sisters’ debuts as well. So Christiana decides to put him on ice and go on as if nothing’s happened…

Until the real earl appears. Richard Fairgrave had every intention of confronting his villainous twin who robbed him of his name and title…only to discover that he’d died. Quietly assuming his identity, Richard must now deal with a maddening desire for his ravishing inherited “wife”—certainly a gold digger and possibly a murderess. And Christiana must deal with an unwanted new “husband”…and they both must figure out what to do before the ice melts!

Click cover for excerpt and more info!

Review:

I loved this funny, fast-paced read from this author I hadn’t read before! Though the plot was at times implausible and there were some anachronisms, the premise was fresh, fun, original and very well pulled off!

The story concerns Christiana, the eldest of the Madison sisters whose cruel husband drops dead one day in his study. She decides to put him away and pretend nothing happened but when she spots him at the ball that evening, her troubles are just beginning! Turns out he’s the one she was meant to be married to and the cruel husband is his evil twin! Naturally, the two en d up falling in love but must also deal with what to do with the twin’s body and the threat of a possible murderer!

I liked Christiana and found her easily relatable. Right from the beginning, you feel sorry for her and what she had to endure and you’re almost rooting for her to find happiness! However, it was a bit silly how long it took her to figure out that the man she met at the ball isn’t her husband-he was so clearly different!

The hero on the other hand (the real one not the fake evil twin!) was sweet, considerate and very sexy! None of that typical arrogance seen in most heroes-this one was sincere and honest. He made the perfect match for Christiana and was the right man to heal all her wounds (in more ways than one :P )

The tension was hot and the story was very intriguing. I stayed up more than one late night just to finish it off! Lynsay Sands has a very easy-to-read and humorous writing style and boy, does she know how to write a love scene! :D The plot was at times a bit implausible but hey, this is fiction after all, though if you like your stories more realistic, you might not like this one as much.

I also enjoyed the mystery subplot and it kept me guessing right up till the end. The only flaws in this book was that sometimes the characters acted in very modern ways and more than once during a scene, I would think, a Regency lady wouldn’t do that or say that! This kind of spoiled the magic for me slightly. Then there would be times in a love scene when a heroine’s undergarments would magically disappear and she would be completely bare under her gown!

But apart from those flaws, I still found the book to be a great read, perfect if you want something funny , upbeat and wonderfully romantic to escape into on a boring afternoon. If you’re a bit of a history stickler, than this one’s not for you.

Sensuality Rating: Pretty Hot (Love scenes are quite long and explicit)

Verdict: Prefect escapist fun!

Rating: 4 and a half out of 5 stars

A Night to Surrender by Tessa Dare TEASER!!!

Check out this tiny teaser from the upcoming new series! Can we say sexyyyy? :D

Teaser:

“The question is, Miss Finch… what are you doing in this village?”

“I’ve been trying to explain it to you. We have a community of ladies here in Spindle Cove, and we support one another with friendship, intellectual stimulation, and healthful living.”

“No, no. I can see how this might appeal to a mousy, awkward chit with no prospects for something better. But what are you doing here?”

Perplexed, she turned her gloved hands palms-up. “Living happily.”

“Really,” he said, giving her a skeptical look. Even his horse snorted in seeming disbelief. “A woman like you.”

She bristled. Just what kind of woman did he think she was?

“If you think yourself content with no man in your life, Miss Finch, that only proves one thing.” In a swift motion, he pulled himself into the saddle. His next words were spoken down at her, making her feel small and patronized. “You’ve been meeting all the wrong men.”

Click cover for more info!

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RELEASE DATE: AUGUST 30, 2011

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