Who the *bleep am I?!

POLO! Ok, so no one screamed 'MARCO!', but I am back. I am finally gonna get back to my horrid book reviews or reviews of horrid books. Just a reminder, this is my blog about rubenesque/bbw/curvy chick romances. I am going to be reviewing an oldie from Ellora's Cave within the next day or so.

Kansas City Shuffle by Talya Bosco

Kansas City Shuffle (from publisher):

Larissa comes to Kansas City after winning a trip to see where her favorite series of books takes place. She expects to have a great time with her three scheduled fantasy dates and an all-expenses-paid shopping spree. When she meets two men at different points in her vacation, she is suddenly torn between them. Finding out they know each other, and are perfectly willing to share her, in and out of bed, is more than a dream come true. It’s a fantasy.
Devon and Jared know that Larissa is their mate; they just have to convince her. And hope she doesn’t freak when she finds out they are the werewolves she has been reading about for the past six years. But they can’t tell her until their pack has finished “testing her suitability” as an alpha female. All they can do is hope she will forgive them when she finds out the truth.
Yet, the real truth is something none of them suspects. And may be enough to drive them apart permanently.

Review: I tried hard to like this book. Really, I did. When I reread the book, I realized how much I did not care for this story. It is hard to pinpoint exactly what it was, but this book did not click with me. The author tried to make Larissa a confident plus sized woman, but I did not buy it. To me, the characters came across as juvenile. I did not like Devon or Jared. The author's writing style was not something I appreciated, but others might. "Gently he pushed her, and she came up against something hard. Her hands felt around. It was a tree. A very large and very firm tree." I mean come on, how else would a tree be?! Pudding dense or maybe spongecake? Hmm. That irked me. Other things as well. Larissa constantly mutters to herself about wanting to be used by a dominant man with light bondage-like this. "Shit. He was right. It had. She knew she didn't want it all the time, but she'd always dreamed of being ordered around by a dominant male. Just a little bit of harmless role-playing. But how had he known? She hadn't said anything." That sort of writing is just a mood killer, like some blathering on during sex. While not a horrid book, I could barely stomach to reread it. It just could not hold my interest. It took days to reread it while trying to do anything else but get back to it to finish it. Also, Larissa is not sufficiently angry or upset for all the lying, deception and "tests" she was put through. I just didn't buy it. The author reiterates constantly how much Larissa dislikes dishonesty and is very open and honest, but barely blips when she finds out all that was done to her. Anti-climatic ending, just didn't suit me. I recommend you pass on this paranormal, shape-shifter menage. There are better examples out there. Try Battered Not Broken by Celia Kyle, I highly recommend this one. **It is not that I dislike this author, I loved her story Hungry Like a Wolf, so I guess this one just didn't click!

His Son's Teacher by Kay Stockham

His Son's Teacher:

Nick Tulane ordinarily won't admit weakness in himself or in those he loves. But when he learns his son is about to fail in school, the single father is desperate to find a tutor. And Jennifer Rose is perfect. In fact, Jen might be too perfect. Nick's starting to fall for the attractive teacher, and he can't let that happen. Because opening up to Jen means sharing the secret that has always made him feel like an outsider in his own family. Still, with his son showing signs of following in his footsteps, Nick can't keep the truth hidden. But once she knows, will Jen accept him...weakness and all?

Review: While this is part of a series, Tulanes of Tennessee, it is a stand alone story. Jennifer Rose is a overweight divorcee who has been emotionally abused by her ex-husband and father. Never made to feel that she was worthy or anything special, Jenn has a hard time coping with Nick. Nick has troubles from his childhood that he keeps closely guarded. This is a very interesting story. The secondary characters are done just right. They are not trying to take over the story. They are perfectly done, drawn out enough. What makes this story interesting is that Nick is not the knuckle dragging Harlequin alpha male. He is a sweet man who has very real issues he is dealing with. Jennifer is fat, overweight, etc. She not the classic Harlequin heroine. The flaws, perfections and imperfections of these characters is what makes this story special. I highly recommend this story as a keeper and reread.

Second Chances by Carolyn Faulkner

Second Chances:

There was just no getting away from that fact that Holly Johnson was fat. She knew she wasn’t cute and round, or pleasingly plump. She was fat - and smart and funny and impish. Chance Thompson was, in a word, not. Very not. In fact, he was downright gorgeous – and dominant and loving and supportive. He was always more than willing to lend Holly a guiding hand – preferably applied with a painful thwack to her ample bottom. Was happily ever after with him too much for an ugly duckling to hope for? At one time, Holly had thought her insecurities had been proven out, but now she wasn’t so sure . . . Second Chances is a romantic spanking story with lots of hot sex and loving correction.

Review: First off let me give you a warning that this is a spanking, or domestic discipline story. I am not someone who seeks out spanking stories, or is a member of that lifestyle. This not bdsm, it is discipline in a parent-child way. I can't explain it because I do not know anything about that lifestyle and I will make no judgment calls on it. That said, you're ass will tingle after reading this somewhat bittersweet tale from the infamous spanking author, Carolyn Faulkner. What I like about this story is that it really digs in on the whole issue of weight. The heroine is at least 40 pounds overweight and her mother is abusive in how she deals with having a "fat" child. Holly has serious issues because of that and her mom uses the insecurities she pounded on her daughter's head to jeopardize the friendship and budding love Holly has with Chance. I wanted to like Chance, I really did. But I couldn't. He did something unconscionable and I couldn't forgive him. Let me just say there is a reason why this book is entitled "Second Chances". As the reader, you will have to figure out if a second chance should have been given. I know my answer. I know this type of spanking/discipline story is not going to be for everyone, still I recommend that if you read this at least once. A great one-time read. And, YES, I did pick this book out for the hunky firefighter guy. Is it me or do just wanna lick around those tattoos?

Thinking about romances led to....

...thinking about romance songs. I'm not a country fan, or a Wynonna Judd fan for that matter. I do, however, love this song. When I first heard this song, I was gobsmacked. I couldn't believe it was a "country" song. Just beautiful and had to share it since I'm reading all these books to review. Ok, 'ya got me! I was actually rereading Making Chase. Here is "Only Love" by Wynonna Judd.

Annabelle Lee by NJ Walters

Annabelle Lee (from publisher):

By day Annabelle Lee is a perfect small town librarian, with loose-fitting dresses and hair scrunched up in a tight bun. But at night, lying in her lonely bed, her sensuality emerges in scorching, erotic dreams about Mike Sloan.
Annabelle's not the only one with a few fantasies. Mike has been dreaming of stripping her out of her prim clothing and getting her into his bed, and when the opportunity arises, he grabs at the chance. Soon they're heating up the sheets, and each other, with steamy sexual interludes.
While Annabelle is luxuriating in their no-strings secret affair, Mike is longing for something more permanent—like exploring the exhilarating heights of passion as man and wife.

Review: This is the first in a series entitled Summersville Secret by an author I am falling for. I have read most of another series by her and fully intend to post something about that it here. NJ Walters has the ability to not only draw the reader in but light 'em up. This story is just as hot as the Southern summer it is set in. The reader gets hot, bothered and steamed up. Yet, there is a semblance of emotions here. While I have reread this story, I still am unsure about the mental tickings of either character. Why is Annabelle so afraid? Why does she think no man will want her? Why, why, WHY?! It is a hard sell to this reader. There isn't enough emotional depth and full backgrond layout to fully understand. Of course, the author fully explains what she does but there is not that dig down to the roots and rip it out sort of thing. Annabelle only had one experience with a guy in college (one night stand?) and is now 30. How is that a basis for this fear? Dunno, may the author doesn't know either and just wanted to write a story about a reluctant heroine and a besotted hero. Going past this sticky wicket, you get a highly sensual tale with a wonderful hero who can make even the most reluctant "quite a handful" of curvy heroine fell more beautiful about herself. I highly recommend that anyone read this keeper of a tale.

WHERE THE HELL HAVE I BEEN

I'll tell you where: grad school. Yep, kicked my ass right up on my shoulders. Haven't had much time to pee, let alone read a good book. Papers, research, lesson plans, blah, blah, etc. Also, there has been next to nothing in the rubenesque/bbw categories of e-book publishers released. I do have a tentative list of books that I have scraped together that I am going to review in the next couple of months.

Also, I have had lap-band surgery. My ass was the size of Texas, seriously I had to have beeping horns and flashing lights just to get around. Honestly, though, at my weight, something had to be done. PCOS was not helping my efforts. I mean it took me a year to lose 25 pounds. I have lost that since my surgery at the end of March. That's right, I am now under 300 pounds and close to my second weight loss goal. I'm so happy. But be warned, this is a drastic, hard, difficult thing to do-it is not easy to live with. You have to have a commitment to the restrictions of the band and give up a lot of the things you probably love. I am still transitioning and learning. It is very overwhelming.

Back to the books. I hope to review the following books over the summer:
XKay Stockham-His Son's Teacher--found here
Sherrilyn Kenyon-Night Play
Francesca Hawley-Whirlwind Affair
Flesa Black-Big, Bad Wolf
Rita Allen-You Have Been Disconnected
Melinda Barron-Search Me Baby, One More Time
Lisa Kleypas-Mine Till Midnight
Teresa Mederios-The Bride and the Beast
Michele Ann Young-The Lady Flees Her Lord
Erin McCarthy-Houston, We Have A Problem
Hannah Murray-Knockout
And plenty more. Note these may not all fall into BBW gal category, but still their extra curviness is noted when describing their appearance, ie unfashionably curvy, overweight, etc.

Paranaughty Predator-Match.com: Alpha v Alpha by Francesca Hawley

Alpha v Alpha (from author's site):

Serena Goldwolf's life revolves around making matches for her fellow shapeshifters through her mate service, Predator-Match.com. She's thriving in the business world, if not her private one, until a match goes awry. She comes face to face with Damien Blackwolf, a very unhappy customer. He's the hottest male on two legs, or four, she's ever met. Life just got interesting.

Damien is looking for his perfect Mate and is startled when he first catches the scent of the voluptuous Serena. He knows he's found his True Mate, but how will he convince her of their destiny when she won't even give him the time of day? He needs to bring out her baser desires and he knows just how to do that - by dragging her off someplace private to get to know her...intimately.

Review: Wow, can't believe I missed this one. Alpha v Alpha is a selection in an anthology that can be purchased here. This is actually an introduction to the same world as Protect and Defend(reviewed). Serena, Damien and others appear in the latter novel. I highly recommend this story, a definite keeper and reread. I would buy the anthology just for this story, it is the only one I have read. The description says it all. Kudos again to Francesca Hawley for proving that curves are more fun!

*If you haven't read Protect and Defend(shame on you!), then read this first. It is not imperative, but would be fun to do. I didn't and enjoyed both stories. Two separate stories in the same world-it is not a read in order series.*

Dayum!!

The Klitschko Brothers, brothers, people. Hot DAMN, is about all I can mutter around all this drool! With bodies like that who cares if I'm not all that attracted to their faces. Although, that side profile ain't so bad.

How I Spent My New Year

Caught my midnight kiss on film!!
I set up the camera so I could share what hubby and I did on New Years Eve. I mean I never heard what was supposed to be kissed at midnight.

Where do I get my books?

Where do I get my books you ask? First, I have seen on many romance book review sites about stating where or from whom they get their books, etc. Now, I buy all my books either in ebook or dead tree form. No authors have or ever will ask me to review a book for them or give them a good review for any price. I have only had one author ever thank me for the review. That had to be a fluke. I really only do this blog for me foremost, gotta get rid of all these brainwave things, and then for other readers who are looking for non traditionally sized heroines. I have read a lot more than I've reviewed. Occasionally if a book that does not meet my main purpose is reviewed it is either because it is so good I have to crow about it or so bad I have to dash it to the earth with my feet or cut it's balls of with my sharp tongue. Ain't that an image.^.~

I buy my books and take no requests from authors or anyone in the publishing industry and am not in anyway connected to the industry. I'm just a mouthy bitch who loves to read romances.

Merry Christmas!

This month has been low...strep throat, scarlet fever, stomach flu, uti and yeast infections....good times! Hope you're holidays are better than ours. I see a specialist about the utis soon. Doc is believing it is anatomical-trauma during labor and delivery of my son. I've had recurring utis and yeast infections since a year after my son was born. He's six now. Been tough, but at least I'm beginning to know what is wrong with me.

Nothing In Common by Megan Hart

Nothing in Common (from publisher):

It's all fun and games—until someone catches your eye... To Sarah Lazin, gorgeous men are like bargain-basement grab bags—nice wrapping with nothing inside but junk. She's ready to dismiss Alex Caine as just another pretty face, but she soon learns there's much more to him than that. He's a man she could love, if only she can forget her past and the handsome lover who scorned her. Will Sarah give Alex the chance he deserves, or will she keep pushing him away by saying they have "nothing in common"?

Review: This is a somewhat predictable, yet still intriguing hot guy falls for chubby, not beautiful gal story. Sarah dated a very handsome man and through his verbal abuses and actions her self confidence plummeted so that any man in reality would have a hard time getting into a relationship with her, not just 'Mr. Gorgeous' Alex. Especially considering the actions and things William said to Sarah would have even made a gorgeous, skinny woman insecure. Alex, while he may look perfect, doesn't realize what it is like to be dumped and unwanted and has a hard time with that. I felt that he often didn't get the deep emotional scars that Sarah had through her somewhat traumatic breakup. William really came across an emotionally abusive man who would be bad for any woman. Sarah also didn't like being judged on her looks, but she still did it with Alex and the men she had went on dates with after William. This is a very good novel on looking past the package and really looking at what is on the inside. Sarah and Alex both had to really look at themselves on the inside; Alex at his somewhat shallowness with women and Sarah with her low self image. One fault I have not just with this story, but with all of this author's works that I have read, is the abrupt endings. After the high emotional stringing throughout the tale it sorta dumps you on you butt with a "well that's that" type feeling. A gentle easing would be better as I was still strung out over the drama. Overall, I would highly recommend this story and consider it a keeper and reread for its humor and emotional depth.

The Perfect Wife by Lynsay Sands

The Perfect Wife (author's site):

It was to be hoped that her groom was partial to cherries. For Avelyn feared she would very much resemble one at their wedding feast. Too round, to red in the scarlet gown that was all she could fit into…and perhaps too tart for his taste? No doubt he longed for a sweet, biddable bride, one who was as tiny and trim as she was trying to appear.

Paen Gerville longed for a lively, well-rounded woman, one whose plump breast would cushion his head after the lonely, harsh life of a solitary fighting knight. At first his wife-to-be promised no such delights—her form was unbending, her health apparently fragile as she fainted into his arms as their first kiss. But one split bridal gown later, her assets were eye-poppingly apparent and Paen could only grin as he anticipated the surprises yet to come on his wedding night with… THE PERFECT WIFE

Review: I waited awhile to read this book. I really wished I would have kept on waiting. Maybe then, this happy little bubble I had for this book would not have burst like Avelyn's bindings. This story takes place in the late 12th century. Paen has been away fighting in the Crusades, which had to be the Third Crusade(1189-92) since Paen says that King Richard released him from service. This is where things get a little hairy for me, murky waters and all. Paen often speaks of being a hard soldier and being away years for the crusade, but the last crusade only lasted three years and was still within King Richard's reign. How, other than travel time, was he away for the crusade for the quantity that this tale suggests? I mean the Second Crusade ended forty years previous to the Third Crusade! You gotta watch when history buffs read your books.
Beyond quibbling over Paen's late claiming of his betrothed, there are more pressing matters to attend to. Avelyn comes across as a bumbling half-wit. It is never a good thing when writing about a 'pleasingly plump' heroine to have her come across as an incompetent fool. People tend to hold plus sized or larger than average people to a higher standard and presenting Avelyn in the way she was presented early on, only confirmed their beliefs. I know some claim that she was nervous and beat down for her cousins' taunting, but there is only so much a reader can take. The story took so long to get to a point where it was passably enjoyable that I felt I deserved some sort of metal of valor. Also, the suspense plot that ran for the last part of the story did nothing to make up for the dismal first half. If this was supposed to be a humorous story I wasn't laughing. Okay, I laughed for a few pages at the beginning but then it got old and repetitive. The love scenes between Paen and Avelyn were well done. I also like David, Paen's squire. Overall, I would pass on this book. There is not a lot to draw you in and keep you. If it wasn't for the fact that I wanted a non-erotic, historical to review for this blog, I would not have even tried to finish it. Even if Avelyn was skinny and still presented the same way, I would not have likeed this book. If the first half had been present more like the second half, then I would have liked this one. Can't say I'll try this author again.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Here's a little 'turkey' for you to gobble. Enjoy these Turkish delights! (^.~)

Baby Daddies and, uhm, 'Turkey' Stuffing: The Agent's Secret Baby by Marie Ferrarella

For some reason unknown to me I have been reading baby daddy/hidden pregnancy/love child stories from Harlequin. I know. I have really hit rock bottom. Since this is confessions of a dirty girl, I am asking for forgiveness for this heretofore unknown weakness of mine.

Now that that is out of the way on to the book to review:

The Agent's Secret Baby:

Eve is pregnant with your baby. The anonymous tip leads undercover DEA agent Adam Serrano back to his lost love, Eve Walters. The gorgeous veterinarian had stormed out of his life upon discovering the "truth" about his identity. Though it nearly killed him, disappearing had ensured her safety. Now he's a father and must see for himself that Eve is okay. Renewed desire fuses them together despite all common sense. Then Eve and their baby become targets in his dangerous world. To survive, he must regain her trust. In the end, he needs to choose between family and duty, life and death.

Review: Don't gag on your giblet gravy when you read this sordid tale. This story barely has a tiny toe in reality. I had to check the front and make sure this wasn't a farce instead of a romantic suspense. Eve, nearly thirty, gives up her virginity to Adam (that's right Adam AND Eve!) in a night of overwrought passion. Eve turns up preggers and Adam doesn't want to be around because he is living on the edge, a man with a hard life, blah blah, etc. Well curiosity gets the better of him and he appears before Eve. This is when reality sets in for the book. Eve, more than two-three-four weeks(the author never really decided and just used these numbers at different points) to her due date, starts having contractions when she sees Adam. Her water breaks and about ten minutes later pushes and has her baby. Speed birthing leads to speed healing, because at three weeks postpartum she has been all cleared for sex. Woohoo! Yeah. If you expect anything other than silliness from this book then you will be sorely disappointed. This turkey tale and baby daddy story will not even lure you from the noxious slaver your family will shove on you during Thanksgiving festivities. While you may want to pass on this story, make sure to get second helpings of that pecan pie.

imnsho: Crappy Romances

Just one of those days: I've been reading such crappy romances lately that I've wanted to gouge my eyes out with rusty spoons. Dug up one of my favorite songs that really captures the essence of my recent relationship with the stories I've been reading. I love everything about this song and this video(and that guy is so adorable >.<). Time for some British indie pop:

Check These Out

Fully rounded heroines article:
http://romance-author-buzz.blogspot.com/2009/11/chick-lit-offers-fully-rounded-heroines.html

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2009/nov/01/chick-lit-heroines-weight-fiction

Check this wikipedia article out, very interesting:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romance_novel

Romance Wiki

Hotly Bedded, Conveniently Wedded by Kate Hardy

Hotly Bedded, Conveniently Wedded:

Alex Richardson has the ultimate playboy lifestyle, moving from one luscious, long-legged woman to the next. So why would he want Isobel, his short, curvaceous friend who loves him from afar?

Alex needs a convenient wife--and Bel is his first-choice bride! Shocked at his proposal, Bel has doubts about his crazy plan. Then Alex gives her a taste of just how hot they can be together, leaving Bel begging him to finish what he started--on their wedding night!

Review: There's a first time for everything and for once I like a Mills and Boon story. This is a Harlequin Presents series novel from January 2009 and can be bought individually, so you don't have to buy the whole bundle. Despite the requisite cheesy cover and overly dramatic synopsis, there is a real tale here. Something beyond bodice ripping and scandalous roguish playboys of stereotypical romance fare. Isobel has went through fertility problems that led to a divorce from her insensitive husband. Alex has had commitment problems due to a bad burn, but nothing to the extent Bel has. While Bel may not be plus-sized, she is curvy. Something in which Alex glorifies. This is a very fulfilling read. Since Alex was an archeologist and Bel worked in a museum, this story was full of history. I loved it . I am shocked and pleasantly surprised that what I would, on face value, pass this off as another category romance to be forgotten. Not so! There is a deeper tale here and one, that while not personal to me, I felt was handle with a care and understanding. I highly recommend that you read this tale, it is definitely a one-time read and probably a keeper for me. I will be on the look out for more by this author. That being said, it such a shame and a disservice to this story to have such a gaudy title, cover and summary. This is otherwise a decent enough tale made garish and tawdry.

Hot in Here by Sophie Renwick

Hot in Here:

She wasn't his kind of dish-until someone turned up the heat...
Celebrity chef and infamous ladies' man Bryce Ryder can't believe the thoughts he's having about his old friend Jenna McCabe. She's always been the shy girl next- door, but when some bad publicity threatens everything he's built, Jenna gets down to business- and shows a side of herself that is take-charge and totally irresistible.
Soon things are heating up in and out of the kitchen-and all of Jenna's secret fantasies about Bryce start coming true. But will she be the one to tame his heart, or is the sexy chef just indulging another one of his cravings?


Review: This is this author's debut novel?! Hot in Here is a very good novel, not perfect, but damn good for a first published story. It was hot. That was done right. I did not like, however, how Jenna attempts to be the 'I just want sex not a commitment' seductress. I hate when authors force the characters to turn themselves inside out and make them go against their beliefs to try and get a man. If you can't be yourself and express you're feelings, why go after the guy if he is that shallow and chauvinistic. Jenna is so hard headed and defensive that she totally misses Bryce's obvious feelings. Of course, Bryce is not above reproach as you will read, yet to this reader Jenna was annoying too often. At times I felt like I was reading Andre's Take Me and that is not necessarily a good thing in my opinion. On the point of Jenna's size. The author takes great pains early on that Jenna is not a size zero, has tits and ass and is very curvy. Then she dashes it to the earth with her feet my making pains to state that she in not plus sized or over a size 14. Whatever, sure she's curvy but not fat or plus sized. It was at odds with comments made by other characters in the story. On this point she does have a plus sized sister and hopefully she will feature in her own book as there were hints in this story. So I look forward to a Trey and Sarah story (HINT, HINT!!), while I enjoy this keeper and reread.

100 POSTS!!

Wow, 100 posts! My other two blogs barely made it to twenty. To celebrate this milestone in my blogging adventure I will gift to you, fair reader, the most f#%@ed up cover I have seen to date. Look and die a little on the inside.

Powerful Greek, Unworldly Wife by Sarah Morga

Powerful Greek, Unworldly Wife:

Gorgeous Greek billionaire Leandro plucked plump Millie from her farm and swept her into his glamorous world! Wrapped in his arms and draped in diamonds, she thought nothing could touch their romance.
But the deepest, darkest betrayal did. Her sister claimed she was expecting Leandro's baby. So Millie ran away, distraught. The designer dresses had clearly never hidden how unsuitable and unglamorous she truly was.

Now, though, Leandro's powerful voice is demanding that his wife come home. And, to her shame, she's willing….

Review: The things I must go through for the sake of bringing "fatchick" books to readers attention. I am almost as saintly a martyr as Millie, yet just as ruthless as Leandro. Seriously folks, this type of story is the reason I stay away from what I consider more traditional romances. I will admit I do like some, but all the ones that I've truly disliked have been Mills and Boon imports. Maybe I just don't like British authors of traditional romance. This book exceeds at everything I hate about this genre: weak, dirt under the doormat low, silly, spineless, no redeemable quality heroine and an arrogant, stubborn, insensitive, self important and high-handed hero. (Note to self: stay away from all whinging pommies from now on). There is absolutely no reason to read this book as neither character inspires empathy or even the slightest spark of like towards them from the reader. Millie is the worst type of heroine in my opinion and Leandro doesn't fare much better. The story seemed to be part of a larger tale that was left off. The reader was left to flounder about in an attempt to figure out what was going on. Not good. I usually try to give books with a "plump" character, so-called in this case, the benefit of the doubt, but avoid this one at all costs. This one made me feel ill and well abused. It was taxing to just finish the story.

Graceful Submission by Melinda Barron

Graceful Submission (from publisher):

Plus-sized Grace Kinison lives a dull life. She’s a teacher and aspiring author, who does nothing but work, and then write on her novel. That is until she becomes a cyber submissive.
Grace has agreed to help her childhood friend’s husband plan her surprise birthday party. Grace thinks her fellow party planner, Toffer Shelley, is a writer on a TV show. What she doesn’t know is that he’s the show’s sexy star, Drake Dawson. He’s a Dom, and he wants to work his magic on her.
When Grace runs into trouble at work her cyber relationship turns into the real thing after she travels to Hollywood to meet Toffer. She’s thrilled to be meeting her Master, until she realizes that he’s the most gorgeous man in Hollywood.
But Toffer won’t let Grace judge him by his looks. He takes her on a sexual journey full of bondage and submission, which give her strength to overcome challenges in her own work.

Review: This was actually one of the first tales I read by Barron and one of the first bdsm tale I read. There are things I like about this story and things I don't. I did not like how Grace 'met' Toffer on the internet, flew to his home and basically blindfolded and trussed herself up naked and alone in his house. That is so scary. So unsafe. Within this story I know that the author was using that as a trust point, but please, please, never do that in real life. It did upset and hurt Grace some that she did not know Toffer's other identity. Think about all the really horrifying things that could have gone wrong. *shudders* Grace and Toffer's initial online chats are fun. It still takes a bit to think about online/phone sex and bdsm and how that works. As a DD bra wearer myself, I find it hard to believe that Grace was able to hide those and that her coworker just suddenly found them, DDs are hard to hide. This story of course falls back onto the jealous, skinny ex who just happens to be a model. I wonder, if Toffer liked full bodied women, why didn't he date one? Why have sex with someone you don't like? They apparently didn't have a bdsm relationship. This is a great one-time read, but just wasn't as good on reread for this reader.

There is a follow-up short for this story that I will review at some point.

Pink Buttercream Frosting by Lissa Matthews

Pink Buttercream Frosting (from publisher):

Desire: Blend sinful with sweet. Whip to perfection. Don’t forget to lick the spoon…
Aidn Greer is a much-sought-after Dominant in the BDSM lifestyle with an unusual problem. He hasn’t owned a submissive in more years than he cares to think about. He’s bored with unchallenging women, yet mentoring other Doms and training subs has left him cold as well. He’s craving something other than plain old vanilla—a taste of something sinfully sweet that, for once, he can really sink his teeth into. Professional cake baker Bailey Harris wasted ten years bored to tears with her marriage, enduring a job she hated, and harboring a secret desire for something passionate, fulfilling and dark. Then she found it…in the world of BDSM. Exploring on her own brought the kind of mind-opening experiences that led her to declare her independence—and exposed a yearning to find the one Dom for whom she’s willing to kneel. Permanently.
When Aidn and Bailey meet, it’s fire and ice. Sugar and spice. And an experience that satisfies every detail of both their fantasies. Almost. While the big, beautiful sub is everything Aidn wanted, her fierce independent streak could be more of a challenge than he bargained for…

Review: This is the first story I have read by this author. Lissa Matthews appears to be relatively new on the erotic romance scene as her website only shows three published stories. PBF is a bdsm story between a newbie sub, Bailey, and a reluctant dom, Aidn. Aidn and Bailey both have had issues in the past. Bailey divorced her husband because he didn't want to delve into the bdsm lifestyle. I find it hard to swallow that. If love, trust and friendship is there, why dump you're life for spankings. Hmm, I guess I just don't get that. Personally, I would never leave my husband because he couldn't/wouldn't fulfill a fantasy. Aidn had a sub he shared with a friend, who cheated on him with said friend. Hmm, maybe that comes from not being monogamous, you share so maybe she thinks you don't mind if she dilly dallies with the guy you usually share her with. I don't know.
Another thorn is that Aidn does not like, or finds overweight women attractive, yet he peruses Bailey. He is constantly coming to her and either having sex or fondles her to orgasm and then abruptly leaves saying he can't be involved with her. He even uses her weight as an excuse. Not exactly 'great catch' material. After repeated dumpings, Bailey gets it through her frosting filled head that he can't commit, even though he has said such. She meets a hunk-o-man-meat who has got the supreme hots for her and loves her curvy body, yet she is ripped away by Aidn for their own, umm, HEA, I guess. The I don't want to commit, especially to the fat girl routine is too much for me. Why does Bailey pursue a man who doesn't want her? Why not go out with buff studly from the bdsm club? Personally, I would have dropped Aidn like a hot potato and explored a relationship with someone who really wanted me, curves and all. Definitely, a one time quick read, only if you're bored. Very, very light on the BDSM, to almost non existent, so much that it's not really a bdsm story.

This author has another 'curvy girl' story and I will review it at another time. It is a bdsm story with bdsm sex themes.

Breaking the Silence by Katie Allen

Back to our regular scheduled "fatchick" romantica reviews (^.^)

Breaking the Silence (from publisher):

After enduring a horrific childhood, William Jackson lives a solitary existence working as a computer programmer from his Minnesota home. His safe routine is blown to pieces when the daily sight of an unknown woman walking her dog sends his heart into a tailspin. Jenny Fitzgerald’s love life is at a definite low. Her only potential date in sight is her annoying and creepy coworker, Evan—until a stunning man appears before her like a gift from some kindly sex god. Who is she to turn down what’s offered to her on a hunky blond platter? Will and Jenny’s friendship develops as their hunger grows into love. Meanwhile, a jealous Evan watches, his rage building until it explodes in a brutal act of violence that tears Jenny’s life apart. Will struggles to help her rebuild her courage and sense of self as his own demons and fragile memories threaten their chance at happiness—but perhaps they can learn to heal each other.

Caution: If you have been through sexual trauma recently or at anytime, then you may want to steer clear of this story. The attempted rape scene is realistic and violent and may trigger flashbacks or strong emotions. I just want you to be aware that this book contains this material, which could be hard to handle if you feel emotional vulnerable.

Review: Wow, I started back to my normal reviews with a whopper. This is an excellent book with a great depth of emotion. The sex scenes were, yes, hot but so, so much more than that. It all becomes even more poignant when you look back as things about Will's past are revealed and after Jenny's assault and attempted rape. Wonderful book. Katie Allen gets it as close to right for the reader on everything Jenny feels after her assault as she can. Unless you have been through it personally, you can never truly understand those emotions. When Jenny describes her rape exam, I was flooded with memories of my own. She talks of screaming. Yes, I get that: forty hairs from your head and pelvic area, plucked not cut because they need your skin attached. The cold, clinical and painful exam can be just as much like rape (left feeling vulnerable, violated and little dignity) and I got Jenny. Will and Jenny along with Christian are some of the best characters I have come across in awhile, especially Will. I loved Will, especially how he loves Jenny's curves. I love how Jenny does not worry about her size, although we never know exactly. For once, the never exactly knowing, is fine by me. This is an excellent book, that you must read and keep and reread again.

BTW, as this author has written m/m content books, it would not be overly surprising if she wrote a Christian follow-up. Those interested might want to keep an eye out. Don't know if will happen, but Allen doesn't seem adverse to writing m/m stories.

TRICK OR TREAT

Here's you're plastic pumpkin full of treats and tricks. Check back throughout the day for quick bites of stories. No real reviews today, just quick thoughts. Enjoy!
*Click titles for summaries* Naked Pumpkin Run

Tied and Tempting by Maggie Casper:
Another attempt at a Maggie Casper tale and it was like getting an apple in your treat bag. What a let down. I felt sure that Mira was truly not into bdsm and was only going along with it to get "H.O.T." Nash. For someone who had been 'curious' about bdsm and read about it, she was overwhelmingly naive. The author couldn't sell me on this story. I read it once and tried to read it again for this review and just had to give up. To hard to believe. I just wasn't able to buy Mira's I'm-curious-about-bdsm-yet-can't-believe-the-guy-I-lust-after-is-really-a-Dom thing. If she's unsure and slightly uncomfortable, then what the hell is she doing at a bdsm club?! Seems too much like I'll do anything to get the guy sort of thing. BTW, I liked Nash's thoughts better as Mira was just too damn silly for me.

Tentacles of Love by Margaret L. Carter:
While not technically a Halloween or Autumnal story, it is super weird and fits into the out of this world theme that is Halloween. By the title alone it should be obvious that Blake is packing more than the average man and that Lauren is in for a surprise. If you've read or are familiar with tentacle hentai(click to learn more), then you can see where this story is going. While I have passed this story up in the past, I decided to give it a go since it went well with the paranormal themes of this month. While not a must read, it is a fun little tale, even if alot weird.

Your Treat or Mine by Tuesday Morrigan:
The first I've ever read by Morrigan, this short Halloween tale is full of lust and little substance. Because it is so short, it comes across a part of Amelia, Riley and Vittorio's story. While it'll feel your sweet, or in this case, lust tooth, don't expect much else. An okay little Halloween treat that was too short to pull of the whole shifter and life mate plot, though nice try. This tale would have been better if it was expanded.

Wake Me Up by Caitlyn Willows:
A very sexy, and yes, heart warming tale of time traveling lovers. I enjoyed this tale and its a shame I put of reading this Halloween tale till the last minute! Daniel and Isabelle are both good characters and I like that Daniel was not the over-the-top alpha male Dom type, but a sensitive and caring man who just liked a little bedroom play. Nice tale, enjoyed it immensely.

Haunted Redemption by Melani Blazer

Haunted Redemption (from publisher):

He isn’t the Scott she once knew. Lili never expected to see him again, but when she does, the sparks between them make Halloween a night to remember. It had been at a haunted house ten years earlier that Scott had disappeared. Lili has no intention of letting history repeat itself.

Scott returns, desperate to see the woman he’d left behind, knowing he’ll have one night—just one night to savor in his memory for an eternity. He hasn’t counted on the power of their attraction—and the devastating effects his secret will have on the woman he loves.


Review: This book tried unsuccessfully to get the reader to believe that Lili and Scott were ill fated lovers reunited. This reader could never discern any deep emotional attachment, but more a 'what could have been' sentimentality and a heaping of lust. It was also odd that the author chose for Scott to come back ten years later after Lili had lost the fat. Convient isn't it. Scott, the man who seemed to accept her for her, shows up when she has a new skinny, super sexy confident form. The hackneyed diaglogue between Lili and friends was nauseating. For example:

“Dayum girl, you look hot! This look really works for you. We need to get you dressed up more often.” Susan Hamilton shook her head and sighed. “Damn scary how good you cleaned up.”

Lili Dewitt winked at her longtime friend’s outburst. “It’s Halloween, I’m supposed to be scary. And don’t get used to this. I said I was changing some things about my life now that I’m back in Sycamore Springs. But I was going for a less extreme approach. This? This is just for fun.”

“Honey, fun or not, people are going to see the new you tonight. Slim and sexy. Shit. You hoping to get laid or something?”

Gags, it barely gets better. No moving prose here but plenty of sex(anal, oral and vaginal), voyeurism, hedonism, inter-species, blood, etc. All in the name of Halloween fun, right? Anyway, Lili and Scott are both to self-sacrificing for my liking. Lili has mooned for Scott for ten years and when he comes back and says he wants her, she leaves and he lets her go. Then when she changes her mind, he doesn't want her to come, preferring to not make her into a vampire. There are plot twists that further confuse the plot and why and how Scott got turned into a vampire are never told. This story was published in the Things That Go Bump In The Night V Anthology and now separately. My recommendation, if you have the anthology, then you can read it if you really want to. If not, don't waste your time.

Eternal Kiss by Felicity Heaton

Eternal Kiss (author's site):

Nicholas has spent centuries doing what he does best-hunting and killing. A Halloween masquerade seems like the perfect place to amuse himself and grab a quick bite to eat, but he gets more than he bargained for when he sets eyes on the beautiful Anna. He's a vampire who is happy being alone in the world but is Anna about to change all that?

Anna has had a tough life and her luck with men is dismal. When she finds herself swept up into the seductive embrace of a sinfully handsome man, she thinks that luck is finally changing, but things are not all they appear.

Caught up in their masquerade, Anna and Nicholas both find it impossible to deny their attraction to the other and they succumb to their desires. Anna takes everything in her stride, convinced that she's either dreaming or about to die, and wanting to make the most of it regardless. Nicholas starts out wanting nothing more than her blood and her body, but things soon change. What will happen when reality comes crashing down around them? Will love last forever if it's sealed with an eternal kiss?

Review: This is a very short, engrossing Halloween tale-under 2o pages actual story line. The author does a great job on describing the lure a human has for a vampire. Because its length, there is no real character development-no deep emotional understanding, etc. You don't know what actually makes Nic or Anna tick, their experiences, who they really are, nothing really. What the reader gets is a snippet of this fantastical, carnal Halloween encounter and its lasting repercussions. It would have made an absolute great tale if it were expanded, hint to the author. This story is as much a must read for its escapism as for the price...$o.84 at Fictionwise. For under a dollar, you can't go wrong with this vampire/Halloween tale. The cover is very good, one that actually is more representative to what the story is about, imagine that!

His Female by Madison Hayes

His Female (from publisher):

The human Chiarra is on the run. When she manages to cross the dangerous maelstrom, seeking refuge among the fascinating Gryffin, she never expects to become the prize in a vicious contest between two magnificent males.
Descended from the winged gryffins and armed with poisonous barbs on their knuckles, the mighty Gryffin are humanoid creatures both deadly and dangerous. They are feared for their power and strength, though regarded as "animal" by the prejudiced humans dwelling on the far side of the treacherous divide. And yet, human females are highly prized as mates—it is perhaps every Gryffin male's fantasy to have a woman like Chiarra in his fold.
Determined to save the girl from certain death, Jarrk fights for the right to claim her—only to be shamed in front of his people by the hostile, arrogant little human. Thus ensues a battle of wills between the two—a struggle born of pride, prejudice and misconception—fired by a dangerous, unwanted attraction that cannot be denied.
By the time Chiarra's past catches up to her, Jarrk has developed a taste for all this sensual creature can offer him—and claimed Chiarra as his own. He'll kill the man who dares to touch his female. Now they are on the run, but a Gryffin and human together make a conspicuous pair. Though they might outwit the men who seek Chiarra's life, they'll never outrun the huge reward offered for her capture.
Only a combination of human ingenuity and animal instinct will save them—only with unconditional trust can they find the true promise of love.

Review: The Calendar Girl series by Madison Hayes tops my charts. I decided to take a further look at this author's works. The Gryffin Strain series, so far only two, centers on the misconceptions of humans and gryffins towards each other. Gryffins are humanoids who have ruffs and poisonous barbs fatal to humans. Where Gryffin females are straight, human females are curvy. Gryffin females are dry in the places, human females are moist. Coupling between gryffin females and males is a short lived experience, whereas humans can last much longer. Thus leads to the almost obsessive desire by male gryffins to bring a human female into their fold (like a harem) of multiple women. Chiarra ends up in such a situation when Jarrk wins her. Intially, Jarrk saved her from death under another male, but lust bloomed and the love flowered. (Now I'm sounding like an old school romance, heaving bosoms and bodice ripping as well!) Chiarra is on the run and then her past catches up. This story is very good. It is nice to see a story where there is lustful curiosity from almost the beginning, but it is not acted upon. The author allows for some feelings to develop. It was much appreciated. While not a Halloween themed story, the Gryffin peoples are too intriguing to be ignored. As Halloween is a time of fantasy, you should definitely pick up this keeper and reread and sink yourself into this world.

Walk on the Wild Side by Sierra Cartwright

Walk on the Wild Side (from publisher):

On a night filled with trick or treating, Brianna Duncan's about to get the treat of her life.
She's wanted to take a walk on the wild side, and Halloween gives her the perfect opportunity.
She's been interested in the BDSM lifestyle, and when her hunk of a husband-to-be brings home a scandalous, skimpy outfit and tells her it's the costume for the party they're going to, she's nervous, and more than a little tantalised.*Publisher misspelling, not mine!
Not only does Justin have treats in store for Brianna, he's got some leather and tawse in his bag of tricks and they're both determined that this won't be just an ordinary Halloween.

Review: Somewhat confusing on who initiated the bdsm aspect into this relationship. Apparently, Justin was a Dom and had been in D/s relationships previously but not with Brianna. When she expresses an interest, he doesn't respond, that is until Halloween. Then Brianna fantasies come to life and she has to decide whether she can handle the realities of that type of relationship over what she has read in erotic books and on websites. As this is a bdsm story, the sex scenes focus more on the pain/punishment/submission aspect and not sexual intercourse although there is some. The punishment scenes can get intense and the use of a tawse and flogger on breasts, genitalia and bottom was cringe worthy to this reader. Overall not a bad read and was very British in terms and language usage. Read this only if you like the pain aspect of bdsm or are interested in how this type of relationship begins.

Fated Mates and Anal Sex

Here's a good discussion for a rainy Tuesday: Fated mates and anal sex- a country perspective.

Now, I don't know about you guys, but I am getting a little uncomfortable in the saddle with all this spewing of anal sex. It seems to me that anal sex is gonna almost be blase when this finally passes over.

I gotta chuckle every time I read a true mate shifter style story and the man says something like we must seal the bond and I must mark you in every way. That's right folks, anal penetration. I don't know, Discovery/NatGeo ain't ever showed wolves and lions doing that before. I don't recall it in my Biology course in college either.

Or when they must quickly mate and seal the bonds through anal sex in order to end some world catastrophe. That's right folks, a good reaming is all that's needed to empower you to defeat the dark forces. Who knew?! I didn't.

Well, I gonna wrap this up. This vibrating butt plug is gettin' a might uncomfortable and a whole mess of feral vamps is headed my way. Time for some bond sealing and ass whoppin'.

All joking aside:
Be wary of any hulking, knuckle dragging neanderthal, alpha male type that claims you are his one true mate and you must seal that bond through anal sex in order to stem some extreme crisis.You have been warned!

Hellbaby by Minx Malone

Hellbaby (from publisher):

All Helena plans for Halloween is a visit to Underworld to find the demon father who abandoned her and her mother.
Instead she finds herself captured by the gatekeeper, Abaddon.
Lena knew him only as Donny, the quiet young bodyguard she loved as a teenager but he’s been reborn as Lord Destroyer, Commander of the elite military squadron, the Enforcers. He offers her a deal, three nights in exchange for her freedom but Lena wants more. Can she convince Underworld's fiercest Enforcer that they can have much more than three nights, that if he's willing, they can have forever?

Review: I have never read anything by this author before, but Minx Malone seems promising. Helena, part angel and part demon, tends to go into fire rages when she is highly emotional. Especially during sex when she climaxes. So having sex with humans or even angels is difficult because she can not orgasm or she will hurt her partner. Donny, her bodyguard sent by her father, was her first lover and only love. Donny was a demon and thus able to handle the fire, being an erotic sensation for him. Donny left abrubtly and Helena has been broken hearted along with sexually unfulfilled since then. The veil between the worlds is open on Halloween so Helena hashes a plan. She decides to find her father just so she can persuade him to help her find Donny, she is captured by Abbandon. Abbandon has loved her, yet blames his love for her and the time they shared, as reasons for the torture her Lord Regent father put him through. Abbandon plays mind games with her and the Lord Regent plays games with the both. This is a good one time, quick read that is only hurt by the fact that it could have been longer. Just wish there were further stories of Helena and Abbandon.

John Abraham

OK, things you will never here me say in my life:

No, you eat that chocolate.

I've had enough coffee.

I wish I was from India.
--but this man changes that.
I would do awful, horrible things to just.....

John Abraham is a Bollywood (India's version of Hollywood) actor/model who is probably as gay as they come (no pun intended) but gay or not he's beyond me. Notice I don't even bring up my poor hubbie. HAHAHAHA!! Love you honey.

Demon Moon by Cameron Dane

Demon Moon (from publisher):

Rancher Connor Hawkins despises every drop of demon blood that courses through his veins. He would give just about anything to become human. The only way he can make that happen is to participate in a darkly sensual ritual under a rare full Halloween moon with a woman who loves him unconditionally. He's got the full moon, if only he can risk his heart and tell Cassandra Claire what he really is.
Cassie Claire thinks she already knows the real Connor, and she's been in love with him since she was eighteen years old. They've shared a unique friendship from the day her father died and Connor brought her home to live with his family. But she's twenty-three now, and on this Halloween night she's determined to make the stoic, stubborn Connor open his eyes and finally see her for the strong, capable young woman she's become.
But it's hard to trust when you never have, and Connor has precious little time before the full Halloween moon wanes, not to be seen again for many, many years. He has to tell her, but if he does, will she love him enough to do what must be done?
They'll both find out, one passionate night under a Demon Moon.

Review: This story starts off almost shockingly in its eroticism, but quickly attempts to redeem itself. I personally like a slow build up, not a sex scene that starts on page three of a novella. Nonetheless, this is an interesting tale of demons that live as humans on their ranch in Montana, Hawkins Ranch. Connor has one chance to become human, but is scared that Cassie will reject him if she finds out he is a demon. He would rather live with her as a friend than risk losing her. Cassie is in love with Connor but he does not seem to see her as a woman. The sex scenes are very heated. The ceremony, if you will, that Cassie must perform on Connor only on Halloween night moves from the erotic romance/romantic category straight into the crass. I felt it was a scene built more for the male fantasy than the female. Not a bad book, but not a great read either. If you like demons and Halloween, then you might want to check out this one.

Note most other offerings in the series are m/m. At my time of reading, this first tale was the only m/f, but there may be others now.

Solo by Jill Mansell

BEWARE THIS POST CONTAINS CURSING AND LOTS OF RUDE PHRASES. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!!

Description:
Love is always just around the corner in a Jill Mansell novel - with a few surprises and a lot of humour on the way to happiness When Tessa Duvall, a struggling artist, reluctantly agreed to accompany her best friend Holly to a party at the elegant Charrington Grange Hotel, she had every intention of sneaking off early. For parties full of strangers bored the knickers off Tessa and this one proved to be no exception - until she encountered Ross Monahan, whose wicked reputation was as high profile as the hotel he owned and ran with such panache. But whilst Holly set about ensnaring his reluctant brother Max, Tessa simply accepted Ross for what he was, a sensational one-night stand...until she realised, weeks later, that one-night stands can have far-reaching consequences...

REVIEW: Ok, this has not a damn thing to do with Autumn, Halloween, nothing. But this book is so bad it's scary. Like typing in bold scary. In the immortal words of Jon Stweart, "There's gotta be some chocolate sauce in this shit sandwich somewhere" alas there was not. I have not read anything so chauvinistic and disgusting. Tessa and Holly, Max and Ross all the characters really, well except for the baby, should have been loaded on a plane and then crashed somewhere in the ocean. That would have been good, because the story would have ended, abruptly, instead of being dragged out. This story should have been entitled "Philanders and The Women who Shamelessly and Desperately Cling to Them Because They Have NO Selfesteem and Would Thus Like to Be With a Man Who Would Stick His Phallus in Anything with a Hole, Especially While his "True Love, Tessa" is Giving Birth to His Child." Long title, I know yet appropriate. Mansell take infidelity to a new level, I mean Ross screwed everybody, except his brother, Max, while claiming to want a marriage to Tessa, even going so far to claim she was a slut for having a platonic male friend stay with her. All because he recognized he was like him, ie, not able to keep his dick in his pants. The only thing I can be happy about is that Ross wasn't bisexual or incestuous, or maybe if he had screwed his brother I would have seen the publisher warning and never read this book. The only likable character in this book is the only one without a HEA. I am damned pissed that this was an ebook. In these tough economic times the paperback would have been useful for toilet paper. As for the supposed wit in this book, I've seen more at funerals. I think if I read more British books like this one, then I could see why the French hate the British.
Got to be one of the worst books I have ever read. So bad I am not even giving you a link to buy it. Consider this my community service/charitable gift, in warning you away. Bring in Halloween, you only wish you ate a bag of razor blade embedded candy bars, instead of reading this garbage.

Whose body is this????

Whose body is this?? I mean I noticed blondie's nipples seemed a little dark and his skin didn't quite match, but then the image of the dark haired guy hit me and I knew where I had seen those barb tats that blondie is sporting before. Apparaently, Ellora's Cave did a little photoshop decapitation. I wonder what he really looks like. How funny, yet oddly disturbing. Wait, but what if it's not the black haired gents body either? Whose body is this? Where's his head? Why do I care??? Hmm, good point. And is it me or does he look a tad uncomfortable-- "I am in pain. My speedo stuffing went horribly awry" (from Twilight Rifftrax). Butt floss, anyone? No? Are ya' sure?

See, this is what happens to you if you can't find a job and are left to your own devices.

Hankie Pankie by Liz Andrews

Hankie Pankie (from publisher):

When Amie Taggert discovers an invitation for a BDSM Halloween party on her boyfriend's computer, she's concerned he's unsatisfied with their relationship. Wanting to show him she's willing to try anything once, Amie signs them up. Imagine her surprise when she discovers he's clueless about the event.
Eric Hammond wonders if this is Amie's way of saying she's interested in spicing up their love life. He's more than willing to be adventuresome in the bedroom.
If the exotic rooms at the club are any indication, Halloween will be a night of hankie pankie neither will forget.

Review: Hankie Pankie is a rather mild, or bland, bdsm story depending on your opinion of this genre. If you do not like hard core bdsm with multiple partners, humiliation, etc., then this may be a good tale for you. As it is about a couple learning about the lifestyle, it would be a good introduction to bdsm stories. If you like more hardcore bdsm, then this tale may disappoint. It is a "quickie" length, thus not much in the way of a deep plot, but a pleasant tale nonetheless. A great one-time read for your Halloween pleasures!

*Even if those barb wire tats may be fake, they still look hot! (^.~)*

Romancing the Recluse By Michelle M. Pillow

Romancing the Recluse (from publisher):

Viktor Dracodomus' biological clock is ticking. As a dragon shifter, he only has a short time left to find his mate and reproduce or he'll be forever sterile. Considering he's lived for centuries, it shouldn't be too hard. But there's one catch. This recluse hasn't been on a date for some time—since Queen Victoria took the throne. Modern women are nothing like those he remembers dealing with.

Samantha Egan's life is in a slump, despite the fact she's an heiress. She was just fired from a volunteer job, her boyfriend left her and she's all alone in the world. But being the lady of propriety she is, she can't believe it when she is compelled to start making out with a stranger in the middle of Central Park. Now the sexy man won't keep his hands to himself and it's all she can do to say no.

Review: This Autumn tale is about a dragon shifter and a somewhat dingy heiress. I'm not sure why she had to be an heiress. It seems Viktor Dracodomus has a thing for snagging them as the other woman in his past was also one. Sam was alright, but I like Viktor more. Not a bad tale, but there are things that I wish had been expanded on. Beware, if Viktor doesn't find his mate by his 600^th year, then he loses the ability to have sex. Sam is his fated/chosen mate and he is quick to claim her. Hence the the plot device of dubious consent to become a mate, not the sex, just the life mate. If Autumn in the city and dragon luvin's are your thing, then you might want to check this one out. This reader enjoyed how the author discusses the changes in time periods and language. Not a great read, but not a bad one either.

Part of the “Stop Dragon My Heart Around” Anthology.

Blood Lust by Stephani Hecht

Blood Lust (from publisher):
Once top soldiers for the Vampire Regulation Force, Kane Toren and his two younger brothers were the ones to call for missions no one else could handle.They were feared by everyone and respected by all.That ended in one horrible night, when an entire human family was slaughtered and the brothers were falsely accused, imprisoned and disgraced.

Ten years later, Kane is out of prison and struggling to support himself and his brothers by taking jobs no self-respecting vampire would accept.Then on Halloween Night a beautiful female Drone vampire, named Toni, shows up at his door seeking his help. There is no way Kane can turn her away, even though he knows she, too, is harboring demons from her own dark past.

Despite all that, they find themselves drawn to each other. But, can they let go of the past long enough to embrace the future?

Review: This is a fast paced paranormal Halloween tale. Blood Lust is the first in the Drone Vampire Chronicles series. Kane and Toni are both excellent characters. It contains a nice blend of action, adventure, romance and eroticism all done in a comfortable voice and is easily approachable. I dislike complicated story lines that have so much information crammed into them it is hard to follow the plot. Not so with Blood Lust. The author has done and excellent job with this tale and has setup a world (I would love to further explore) without complicating Blood Lust with overly detailed back story. Unfortunately for me, the rest of the tales in this series are m/m or m/m/f. I am not a fan of that genre. If you are, then I would definitely pick up this keeper and reread as a start and then check out the rest of the series. Hey, you could even let me know how the books are.