Subterranean by James Rollins (#82)

Suspend belief and journey down. Down below the ice where evolution has taken a different course.

I was so mad at Dr. Blakey. How could he recruit a single mother and let her bring her son on this mission? He knew some of the dangers but didn't inform the others. Ashley had been having enough trouble keeping food on the table after the divorce that a guaranteed tenure at "the university of your choice", exclusive authorship of research garnered and $100,000 for two months work blinded her to the omissions. Being able to bring her son and a large diamond fertility statue helped. True, we only know of them because of the previous chapter but when something sounds too good to be true, maybe it is.

I was serious about suspending belief. This may be listed as a thriller but think Journey to the Center of the Earth with strange creatures, fantastic geological finds, and amazing plant life. Just add modern greed and weapons. I haven't read Journey so I'm not sure it is a true comparison but I'm loving this book, am amazed that it is a debut novel and am looking forward to reading what else Mr. Rollins has written.

off to read some more. . . 

heart-stopping panic, blood-curdling fright, blood and gore, tear inducing moments, satisfying ending.

Subterranean
James Rollins
978-0061916175
William Morrow
March 2010
432 pages
hardcover (paperback, ebook, audio)
Age range: high school
 
Thriller
source: public library

finished reading: June 27
Grade: B+

Beneath the ice at the bottom of the Earth is a magnificent subterranean labyrinth, a place of breathtaking wonders—and terrors beyond imagining. A team of specialists led by archaeologist Ashley Carter has been hand-picked to explore this secret place and to uncover the riches it holds. But they are not the first to venture here—and those they follow did not return. There are mysteries here older than time, and revelations that could change the world. But there are also things that should not be disturbed—and a devastating truth that could doom Ashley and the expedition: they are not alone.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Where are you reading
Outdo Yourself
Library Books Read-a-Thon
Library Books
Genre/sub-genre

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Fatal Error by Colleen Thompson (#80)

This book is listed as Romantic Suspense. I found it to be more suspense than romantic. My heart pounded, I jerked in surprise and put the book down several times just to catch my breath. I've been reading a lot of small town romances and ended up falling in love and wanting to move there. This book didn't give me that feeling. I thought it was a great example of what can go wrong in a small town. The Sheriff who has been in office for too long. The Ladies Group that basically runs the school board. The narrow-minded and petty people that show up everywhere, just in larger number here. The Mother in denial and looking to blame anyone else for her son's behavior.

There are also the two ladies who have been friends with her Mother forever and always come through in a pinch. The almost high school drop-outs with redeeming qualities. The brother-in-law who does what is right. The sister who comes through in the end.

And the stalker.

The imagery used to describe the beauty of the wasteland surrounding the town made me think I was there.

His gaze rose to where, far above the sky-stretched arms of ocotillos, a buzzard floated kite like on the breeze. The dark bird glided toward the distant purple smudge of foothills, its apparent aimlessness a study in deception...he opened his hand and let the hot breeze carry the feathers away. It skimmed along the sand until the lost sight of it among a thorny mass of cholla cactus.

The imagery isn't just for the location, it works very well with the characters too.

. . . he had failed so utterly that she would never see him as more than a ... loser, a vindictive ... who'd struck out at her like a toddler in a tantrum. Screaming with rage at hte thought, he swept the photos and the papers off the table, his wrist smearing a bloody arc across its cool tiled surface.

It looked almost like a sunset, he thought in the last moments before his intolerable. existence flickered and went out. 

I enjoyed this one very much and am looking forward to reading more of her books but due to space limitations, I'll use the library.

Fatal Error
Colleen Thompson
978-0843954210
Leisure Books
Nov 2004
340 pages
MMP, also ebook
Age range: high school
 
Romantic Suspense
source: private library

finished reading: June 22
Grade: B-

West Texas gossip paints every story a more interesting shade, especially when a married man goes missing with a small-town banker’s wife and a stolen fortune. Susan Maddox is tired of feeling like an abandoned woman, and even angrier when neighbors insist she’s the one getting away with murder. Maybe her handsome-as-sin, bad-boy brother-in-law isn’t the smartest choice of an ally, especially since she’s never been able to forget a star-studded night in his convertible back in high school. But who else can she trust to recover damning information from her husband’s crashed hard drive? Who else can pick up the pieces when intruders set fire to her home, a truck runs her off the road, and a trail of dead men stops her cold? Who else will help her uncover a fatal error?

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Where are you reading/50 States
Outdo Yourself
In the Middle
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Romantic Suspense

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #79: Sea Glass Island (more sweet)

Sea Glass Island
Ocean Breeze #3
Sherryl Woods

9780778314462
Mira
June 2013
378 pages
print
Age range: 14+
 

romance
source: private library
(Amy wanted to send me the ebook but I bought the print so it would match the other two books she sent me to review)

Grade: B+


With her two younger sisters heading for the altar, will Samantha Castle exchange old dreams for new ones? Lately she'd rather be on the North Carolina coast with family than in New York with agents and actors. Though she vows not to let her teenage crush on Ethan Cole influence her decision, it's hard to ignore her feelings for the local war hero.

Ethan lost more than his leg in Afghanistan. He lost his belief in love. Even being surrounded by couples intent on capturing happily-ever-after won't open this jaded doctor's heart. It's going to take a sexy, determined woman—one who won't take no for an answer.

~*~*~

I'd like to say this is all about Samantha. About her lost love of acting, the high school crush that she never got over, her love of family. Except, Emily hasn't gotten married yet. Samantha is Maid of Honor and Ethan is Best Man. They are consistently thrown together because of wedding stuff, add in a meddling Grandmother who just wants to see her girls happy and you have a LOT of drama.

Still it is Samantha's story so while the wedding is a "character" it is Samantha's viewpoint we see it from.

I'm just at 200 pages and so far their Dad has had some very insightful comments. The love the sisters have for each other really shows through. I'm really looking forward to finishing the book but am sad that the trilogy will be over.

back to reading. . . .

I thought the book wasn't totally about Samantha and Ethan. Turns out that while Emily's wedding and a whole lot more are happening, Samantha and Ethan are up to their necks in almost everything.

I love the twists, the unexpected situations, the interactions between friends, family and town folk.

Ms. Woods does leave us hanging about a couple of things concerning B.J. but I'm very satisfied with the trilogy.

As for sex. . . it does happen, over halfway through, after tension for most of the book but it isn't in your face or pages and pages of it.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Outdo Yourself
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Key Word
Spring Reading Thing
52 in 52
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #75: Black List

Black List
Scot Harvath
Brad Thor

9781439193020
Pocket Books
May 2013 (hardcover: 2012)
443 pages
tall Mass Market Paperback
Age range: 18+ (I'd have let my 8th grader read it but he was reading Rainbow Six by Tom Clancy at the time)
 
Thriller (Espionage)
source: private library

Grade: A


Somewhere . . . deep inside the United States government is a closely guarded list. Once your name is on the list, it doesn’t come off . . . until you’re dead.

Someone . . . has just added counterterrorism operative Scot Harvath’s name. Somehow . . . Harvath must evade assassination long enough to untangle who has targeted him and why.

Somewhere, someone, somehow . . . can put all the pieces together. But Harvath must get to that person before the United States suffers the most withering terrorist attack ever conceived.

~*~*~

There is an interesting author's note . . .

All of the technology contained in this novel is based on systems currently deployed, or in the final stages of development, by the United States government and its partners.

all that data gathering is for our own good of course.

This book is frighteningly realistic and those that try to say anything will come across as paranoid.

What would happen if you were accused of being a threat to the United States simply because you had a couple months supply of food? The reason you were targeted? You walked through a mall looking like you were searching for something and had a higher than normal heartbeat.

The surveillance happening in this book is too scary for words. The power one company/man can have is beyond belief but so realistic I want to start looking for that private island. Too bad I won't get internet or mail service. Oh, wait, that's one two of the things they're taking note of.

I'll just keep reading and keep my head down, better to avoid the cameras that way. Pay cash and be careful of what you search for. Remember, it isn't always friends looking at your Facebook account or reading your Twitter feed.

This may be fiction but it's just too realistic and current not to be aware of.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Genre/sub-genre
Genre Variety
Color Coded
Colorful

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #70: Chasing the King of the Mountains (sexy)

Chasing the King of the Mountains

International Men of Sports
T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes

978-1-78184-364-2
Total-e-Bound
July 2013
140 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+ (maybe 16?)
 
romance (sports/cycling) male/male
source: private library

Grade: B


Pascal Durant, one of the best mountain riders in the cycling world, was about to finally win his first polka-dot jersey denoting him King of the Mountains in the Tour de France. Then he suffered a horrific accident that left him unable to complete the race. In his forties and fighting chronic injuries, he knows he only has one more shot at the top.

Laurent Desrochers, an internationally known reporter, hears about his dear friend’s crash and watches a moving viral video of Pascal, bloodied yet unbowed, congratulating the winner. When Pascal tells him he’s going to do the Tour one last time, Laurent decides to convince his network to let him follow Pascal on his quest.

Friends for a decade, they had never thought of the other as more. Pascal’s focus on his sport and poor taste in men has never produced a long-term relationship. And Laurent’s constant travel causes a rift between him and his fiancé Jan that proves insurmountable.

Laurent finally realises his ideal partner has been in front of him all along. Can he pull Pascal’s focus from his goal long enough for him to know he’s being chased...and let Laurent catch him?

~*~*~

I love the way the authors were able to bring the excitement of race to the page. There were lots of interactions with team members as well as support personal. The story isn't drawn out or technical as it is fast as well as soul searching. Pascal does a lot of introspective thinking while waiting for the starting gun. The friendship of the two men is like your favorite sweatshirt. The slide into lovers as smooth as silk.

You know this is a happy-ever-after kind of book but the will he or won't he excitement is still there. And the ending of the book was perfect.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
ebook
M/M Romance
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Where are you reading?

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #69: Crystal Gardens (sexy)

Crystal Gardens
The Ladies of Lantern Street
Amanda Quick

978-1410447203
Thorndike Press (large print)
hardcover: May 2012
471 pages
large print (also mmp, hardcover, ebook, audio)
Age range: 16+
 
paranormal, romantic suspense
source: public library

Grade: B+


Evangeline Ames has rented a country cottage far from the London streets where she was recently attacked. Fascinated by the paranormal energy of nearby Crystal Gardens, she finds pleasure in sneaking past the wall to explore the grounds. And when her life is threatened again, she instinctively goes to the gardens for safety.

Lucas Sebastian has never been one to ignore a lady in danger, even if she is trespassing on his property. Quickly disposing of her would-be assassin, he insists they keep the matter private. There are rumors enough already, about treasure buried under his garden and occult botanical experiments performed by his uncle—who died of mysterious causes. With Evangeline’s skill for detection, and Lucas’s sense of the criminal mind, they soon discover that they have a common enemy. And as the energy emanating from Crystal Gardens intensifies, they realize that to survive they must unearth what has been buried for too long.

~*~*~

I was sure about this book at the beginning, it felt like I was missing some information but I persevered and fell in love.

The twists and double backs, the realistic characters, the love story, and murder attempts all combined to hold my attention to the last page.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
library
romantic suspense
52 in 52

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #68: The Gift of Running (Non-fiction/clean)

The Gift of Running
a book for runners & future runners
Dr. P. Mark Taylor

978-0615668604
Wise Running Publications (self published)
July 2012
196 pages
ebook (paperback too)
Age range: 10+?
anyone who needs a little encouragement to start and is able to read at this level.
 
non-fiction, sports/running
source: private library

Grade: B (better yet, buy them their own copy)


Running is a gift, but not only for the gifted. Whether you run just for fun or want to become a more competitive runner, The Gift of Running is for you. In The Gift of Running, P. Mark Taylor shows runners how to get started and stay motivated. The book includes: advice on how to get started as a runner, tried & true methods of running faster and longer, how to prepare for a marathon, tips on staying healthy & happy, motivation to keep you running, an insider view of the running community, & training programs for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, & marathon.

P. Mark Taylor is a runner & author of the blog at www.WiseRunning.com.

~*~*~

This is not really anything new and Mark acknowledges this himself. The thing is, instead of reading many books to find the information, Mark has gathered it in one place and added his personal experiences. One piece of info I found on my own by fluke, he mentions three times!

This really is a good starting point. Read it clear through like a novel then read it again with a highlighter or notepad handy!

There is lots of good advice, so much that I can't pick my favorite but I do have two. 1) Buy your first pair of running shoes at a running store. The employees are runners and they know what questions to ask you to help you get the best shoes for you. 2) It doesn't matter what you look like, how far you go, or how fast you are. . . that first "bouncy step" makes you a runner.

I love that he explains things so well, there are tips for your first marathon as well as your first steps out the door. 

I actually paid full price for the kindle version and am pleased with my purchase.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
ebook
Monthly Mix-up Mania
self-published
Wicked Wildfire RaT

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #60: Wind Chime Point (mostly sweet)

Wind Chime Point
Ocean Breeze #2
Sherryl Woods
978-0-7783-1442-4
Mira
May 2013
393 pages
print
Age range: 14+
warning: the main character is pregnant and unmarried. 

romance
source: Amy Bromberg affiliated with McAllister PR

Grade: B+


Facing a personal crisis, ambitious and driven Gabriella Castle retreats to the welcoming arms of her family. Everything she's worked for has been yanked out from under her, and she seeks the serenity of her grandmother's home on the North Carolina coast. With difficult decisions to make about her future, the last thing she wants is an unexpected love.

Wade Johnson fell for Gabi the first time he saw her. It's not the only time he's found himself in the the role of knight in shining armor, but Gabi isn't looking for a rescuer. To get her to stay, Wade will need a whole lot of patience and gentle persuasion...and maybe the soothing sound of wind chimes on a summer breeze.

~*~*~

Gabi was a good girl all through school. She didn't have time to get in trouble, she was too busy planning her future in hopes of making her father proud of her, even going so far as to work in the same field. She's done well for herself but the 60 hour weeks are starting to take their toll and when she comes up pregnant (and still single) she's demoted. Not because she's pregnant, noooo, that would have been illegal. It was still a demotion and she took the severance package.

So, she come to her Grandmother's house. No, to Grandmother's home. She's already been there a lot because of the storm damage but now she has decisions to make. Will she keep the baby? Go back to her old life? Find something new? Someone new?

Now there are two dads in the picture. Her Father and the father of her child. Her Father is improving, I'm happy to say but the baby's father gives new meaning to the phrase sperm donor.

"I'm afraid I'm a work in progress, Gabriella. I imagine there will be a few setbacks when I'll revert to my familiar, self-absorbed ways."

I love the support she receives from the family. I love the spirit she displays when dealing with her Grandmother's meddling, her ex-boyfriend and her Father's "help". You know how sometimes you get a wow feeling when the title makes sense. I got that with this one. Wind Chime Point may be the middle book in a trilogy but it is a satisfying read all on it's own.

Then again, I can't wait to see what happens to the third sister. Hey, Sea Glass Island is on my reading pile :-)

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Way
Outdo Yourself
contemporary romance
In the Middle
ARC
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #59: Mr. Putter and Tabby Spin the Yarn (early reader)

Mr. Putter and Tabby Spin the Yarn
Cynthia Rylant
Arthur Howard, illustrator

978-0-15-206095-4
Sandpiper
October 2007
44 pages
paperback
Age range: 6-9

children's book, early reader, animals, friendship
source: Private Library

Grade: A+

Trying to be neighborly, Mr. Putter decides to serve tea to Mrs. Teaberry's knitting club but chaos ensues when Tabby the cat and Zeke the dog find the party irresistible.

~*~*~

This is number 15 in the series but once you read the first one you should be fine reading them in any order. In this book, Mr Putter is worried that he isn't as good a neighbor as Mrs. Teaberry, after all, all he does is eat the food she makes him.

All room full of knitters and a cat shouldn't mix but add to that a dog who likes hat decorations and the party has all the hallmarks of being a disaster. Those who knit or do other crafty stuff will cringe when they read about the sweater. And the ending illustration shows just how good of a neighbor Mr. Putter really is.

My son is 23 now but I got a smile and a "hey, is that a new one?" from him.

~*~*~

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #56: a Sticky Wicket in Bollywood (NSFW)

A Sticky Wicket in Bollywood
International Men of Sports
T. A. Chase
Devon Rhodes

978-1-78184-299-7
Total-e-Bound
April 2013
155 pages
ebook
Age range: 16+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library

Rajan Malik has the world of Bollywood in the palm of his hand—a beautiful girlfriend, starring roles, adoring fans… He should be happy, but behind the façade lies a man conflicted and exhausted by the pressure placed on him by his terminally ill mother, his agent and society. His life is not his own, and all he wants to do is escape.

Indian Premier League cricketer Ajay Singh can’t believe how bad his university roommate Rajan looks when he spots his picture in the paper. They had parted on bad terms. Still, he’s moved to offer Rajan his support by renewing their friendship.

But friendship was not all they shared back then. Though Ajay is out, Rajan isn’t willing to give up his carefully cultivated Bollywood image to be with him publicly. And with very little privacy, it won’t take long for someone to find out they are more than friends.

Their renewed secret affair is fraught with difficulties as they deal with the death of Rajan’s mother, the secret of Rajan’s till-now absent father, a jealous friend, the intrusive media and threatening notes from someone who seems to know all about their private lives…

It’s a bit of a sticky wicket they find themselves in. Will it be too late when they finally realise that they’ll both need to compromise, or they’ll stand to lose everything?

~*~*~

What's a man to do when the love of his life is not only in the closet but is being run ragged by a controlling mother, agent and co-star?

I really wanted to shake Rajan. He's exhausted, doesn't want to do another film right away but doesn't say anything when his agent announces it is a done deal. His house is not a hideaway, heck anyone can get in and usually do, tour bus regularly stop and stare. Add to this a stalker and Ajay's offer of a place to hide becomes a lifeline.

I must tell you that I ended up liking everyone, even the stalker.

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
m/m romance
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania
52 in 52
Where are you reading

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #54: Sand Castle Bay (more sweet)

Sand Castle Bay
Ocean Breeze #1
Sherryl Woods
978-0778314363
Mira
April 2013
384 pages
print
Age range: 14+

romance
source: Amy Bromberg affiliated with McAllister PR

Grade: B+


In a trade-off she's lived to regret, Emily Castle left home years ago to become an interior designer. The youngest of three sisters, Emily desperately wanted to prove herself. Success, though, came at the cost of leaving behind the man she loved.

For Boone Dorsett, losing Emily left his heart shattered, but another woman was waiting in the wings. Now a widower with a young son, Boone has a second chance with Emily when a storm brings her home. But with his former in-laws threatening a custody suit, the stakes of loving her are higher than ever.

Will fate once again separate them—or is the time finally right for these two star-crossed lovers?

~*~*~

I haven't gotten very far in reading yet but have to tell you that in-laws and custody suits don't mix well. Boone seems to be a very level headed man just trying to make a living for him and his son. To have the in-laws come in and take a son away from his only parent (Mom is dead) just doesn't sit well with me. As if having the grandson will replace losing the daughter. shudder.

Okay, off my soapbox and off to read . . .

Oh, man!  First off, it isn't grandparents, just the mother-in-law.

I don't recall much about the town other than "beach" and "peaceful" - sounds great!

I've got at least five sticky notes to tell you about and just hope they can convey the love of family, importance of compromise and communication, and dealing with grief and disappointment.

I got to page 137 before I went to find my stickies and my copy is an uncorrected proof so while I'm sure the sentiment is there, don't hold me to specific quotes.

1) If Boone had needed a role model for the type of father not to be, Sam Castle would have been it. Even so, he'd wandered dangerously close to being exactly like him.

-Sam and his lack of being there for his family carries through the whole novel and I'm sure it will continue to play a part in the other two, especially Gabi's book.

2) ". . . Men are always trying to find the right balance between the truth, diplomacy and what a woman really wants to hear. We get tripped up on that a lot."

B.J. shook his head. "Sounds way too complicated. I'm thinking girls might not be worth it."

-Well, B.J. is 8 and this just shows how there Boone is for him.

3) "I don't like leaving the important stuff to chance," Cora Jane said in frustration.

"Think of it this way." Jerry suggested. "You're putting it in God's hands. Last time I checked, He was even better than you at making sure things turn out hte way they're supposed to."

Cora Jane could hardly deny that, but she sure as heck didn't have to like it.

-This isn't a preachy novel, just accepting that there is a higher power. It also illustrates a grandma's need to see all is right with her grandchildren.

4) "I think Boone and I are agreed that boring doesn't enter into what we have," Emily said with a chuckle.

"Some details you can keep to yourself, young lady." Cora Jane scolded.

Emily laughed. "I'm definitely not planning to discuss my sex life with you. You might be inclined to turn around a tell me about yours."

For an instance her grandmother looked shocked, but then a grin spread across her face. "As if I'd do such a thing," she muttered indignantly.

But Emily noticed she didn't deny that there was a sex life to be discussed. Just thinking about that kept a smile on her face all the way to the airport.

-Yes, the main couples are having sex but most of it is off screen, except for kisses, and Cora Jane's is complete speculation at this point.

5) "The Farmers (in-laws) aren't the only family you and B.J. have," she reminded him.

She thought she saw some of the tension in his shoulders ease at her words.

"You have no idea how much I count on that," he said.

She grinned at him. "Doesn't need to be legal to be real," she told him. ...

-Isn't that the truth! Sometimes we're blessed with a blood family that is wonderful and sometimes we're blessed with circle of friends that are family.


I haven't mentioned Boone's parents have I? They're there but still not. I'm looking forward to meeting them. Also crossing my fingers that things improve with the in-laws. Otherwise I'm going get out my wet noodles!

Lucky me, book two (Wind Chime Point) is on my shelf and book three (Sea Glass Island) should be here on the 28th :-)

Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
contemporary romance
In the Middle
ARC Clean Sweep
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Where are you reading/50 States

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #50: The Teacher and the Soldier (sexy)

The Teacher and the Soldier
Ellery Mountain #2
RJ Scott
978-1-78184-283-6
Total-e-Bound
2013
87 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library


Luke Fitzgerald left Ellery Mountain for college and vowed never to come back. When his father is murdered he has no choice but to return. Luke only goes home to sell off his share of the Ellery Mountain Cabins, but everything changes when he meets the son of the other owner. Daniel Skylar is an ex-soldier who lives every day to the limit and sees a future in Luke.

It doesn’t matter what Daniel says, or how much he needs Luke; Luke isn’t staying once everything is sold off. Surely Daniel can understand that?

~*~*~

I knew going in that they'd end up a couple, after all, I'd already read book 3. Only, the interactions were so good that there we several places where I seriously doubted it would ever have a happy ending.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
romance
m/m romance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #47: The Fireman and the Cop (sexy)

The Fireman and the Cop
Ellery Mountain #1
RJ Scott
978-1-78184-217-1
Total-e-Bound
January 2013
78 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Romantic Suspense, male/male
source: Private Library


Ellery is a quiet town in the Smoky Mountains, at the base of Ellery Peak, where nothing ever happens. Max Harrison escaped from his firefighting job in the city to take up a role as assistant to the mayor, whilst also holding the position of a volunteer firefighter.

Finn Ryan is one of only three cops in the small town and it soon seems to Max that someone is out to hurt the sexy cop. Rescuing Finn from a burning precinct was the easy part—it’s keeping him alive after that that fireman Max Harrison finds difficult.

~*~*~

Max's first fire with his new job is the police station. He meets Finn when he goes in to save him.  Finn grew up in Ellery and has a regular Friday night with his friends and that's our introduction to half of the three couples in the series.

I was thinking it would be a quick, light hearted read but it wasn't. Yes there was humor but there were several places where my breath speed up or got caught in my throat.

I loved how the roots of being in the same small town kept popping up for Finn and the love and support he's shown.

Wishing now that I had bought book two as well...off to go shopping!


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
romance
m/m romance
Men in Uniform
Monthly Mix-up Mania

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #46: The Carpenter and the Actor (sexy)

The Carpenter and the Actor
Ellery Mountain #3
RJ Scott
978-1-78184-321-5
Total-e-Bound
May 2013
87 pages
ebook
Age range:18+

Romance, male/male
source: Private Library


Jason McInnery, hounded by the paparazzi after his brother's death, runs to the one place where he hopes people will not sell him out. The place where he was born.

Hiding in the tourist cabins at Ellery Mountain Resort out of season he thinks he finally has room to breathe.

If only Kieran Dexter, a man ten years his junior, would stop fixing stuff and generally causing ripples in Jason's calm space.

~*~*~

I didn't feel lost when I read this one, even though I didn't read the first two books in the series. Jason is believable in his grief, the small town is believable in leaving him alone (almost), and Kieran is a sweetheart!

We also meet the couples from the first two books but instead of making me think "Oh, I know how the book ended" I'm thinking "wonder how they got there".


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebook
romance
m/m romance
Where are you reading/50 states

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #37/38: Home Sweet Home (sexy)

This is the 38th title read this year, I got my numbering wrong.
Home Sweet Home
Home series, book 5
T.A. Chase
978-1-78184-322-2
Total-e-Bound
April 2013
137 pages
ebook
Age range: 18+

male/male romance
source: Private Library


Home is sweetest when it’s the one person you can’t live without.

Yancey MacCafferty and Juan Romanos fell in love when they were in their teens, but their families convinced them both to follow their dreams and explore the world before committing to each other.

Their dreams take them in different directions. Yancey heads off to veterinarian school while Juan goes east to ride show horses. They stay in touch, and see each other as often as they can, but slowly they begin to drift apart.

Until Yancey graduates from college and decides it’s time to claim Juan as his. He gets a job working at a clinic near where Juan trains and rides. They spend as much time together as their work allows, finding out that while they may still love each other, meshing their lives together will take a lot more work.

~*~*~

I was really worried that one of the riders would come between them. I didn't think Scout would back down once he decided he wanted Juan. Even knowing about Yancey, he comes on strong.

Yancey has finished school and is now in practice near where Juan trains and rides "show horses". What they don't tell you is that Juan rides 1,000+ pound stubborn animals really fast over 5 foot or higher fences. At least these fences come down when hit.

You might cry on this one. That's all I'm going to say.


Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Quick Fix
ebook
m/m romance
Monthly Mix-up Mania
Where are you reading?/50 States

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #21 (NSFW)

The Best
Tinnean
978-1-62380-388-9
Dreamspinner Press
February 2013
197 pages

Romance, m/m
adult themes
source: private library

Ransom Burke, the handsome, wealthy, gay CEO of Burke, Burke, and Hammett, has implemented a strict no-fraternization rule for his firm. And with good reason—his father's profligate ways almost destroyed the family company. Ransom’s new policy works well until he comes into the office one day and sees Parrish Rutledge, his new executive secretary. Ransom finds Parrish extremely attractive but fights his feelings. If he takes Parrish as a lover, he'll have to fire him.

Parrish has been alone since he was sixteen, having been tossed out by his older brother. He dreams of his boss but knows nothing can ever come of it. Then an office party becomes their undoing and they give in to their passion. As expected, Ransom offers Parrish a choice: stay and ignore what happened or leave the job and return to college. Neither option is even remotely appealing. If only Parrish could persuade Ransom there's a third possibility….

~*~*~

I loved the interaction between the main characters and the peaks into office politics, policies and relationships.




Challenges this counts towards:
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
ebooks
male/male romance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #17 (clean)

Santa Wore Combat Boots
Barbara Witek
ASIN: B006OJRKAE
86 pages
The Story Vault (kindle format)
December 2011


ebook
Romance, Militaryish, paranormal (ghosts)
source: private library

Emma Turner feels like her life ended with the death of her husband. Three years later she’s doing the best she can for her children and moving through life on autopilot. She doesn’t believe true love can happen twice in a lifetime. As a matter of fact, she doesn’t believe in much anymore. Putting her trust in one honest man might be just what she needs to move forward.

Bound by duty Jake Nicklaus never imagined he’d cross the line and fall in love with the woman he swore he’d watch over. If only he’d died on that chopper instead of her husband, she wouldn’t be hurting. The only way to heal her heart is to show her how to live again. Finding the magic in Christmas is the perfect way to start.

Will one kiss under the mistletoe change their lives forever?

~*~*~

Sweet, happy-ever-after story.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading . . . #16 (NSFW)

 A Soldier's Choice
D. L. Warner
978-0977867097
224 pages
Sybaritic Press (ebook)
Amazon (print)
December 2008
18+

ebook
Sci-Fi/Futuristic, Military, Romance, gay
source: private library

They were soldiers. Fight or die was all they had known since they were still boys. Colonel Rik Heron was on track to become the youngest General Joint Command had ever produced. But then his wild protégé, Vincent Greven was lost in a senseless battle born of the crazed ambitions of their superior officers. After two years of a hollow and empty existence, Vincent returns during a cataclysmic firefight. He is older, wiser and irresistible to Rik. While they heal from the last battle and repair old wounds, a deep bond builds between them. Friends and colleagues are not pleased about their relationship or their plans to leave the military. While the pair navigates a messy and dangerous situation, new plots are brewing that put them in the crosshairs once more.

~*~*~

The story starts at with the return of Vincent and the bond grows quickly. We learn of all that went before through re-tellings and interviews. While this is a gay romance book with lots of sex, there is a strong futuristic military story full of enhanced humans, deep friendship and explosions.

The sad thing is that I never would have picked it up based on the cover and I've enjoyed it so much that this is about the fifth time I read the book. 

A second book is also available with Bobby, Vincent's brother, as the main focus.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thoughts on . . . Where Azaleas Bloom

Small towns can be wonderful but when you're going through a divorce? Not so much. Where Azaleas Bloom starts with Lynn staring at a pile of bills and her checking account with less than $25 in it. You can feel her determination to protect her children, her frustration at her husband. Her confusion comes through too. Wanting to keep things private isn't really possible and it gets worse as it goes on. Questions are asked and some are answered. There was a bit of a "what happened to" for me. Lynn's Mother-in-Law is priceless...I wanted to string her up.

We've been to Serenity before, recognize places and embrace people. Helen is once again a strong supporting character as Lynn's lawyer with Raylene as her new boss. Frances, Flo and Liz continue to have their own side story. While the divorce is a central part of the story, the budding romance and strong friendships are the focus. The deep friendships look to be carried over with the children of the Sweet Magnolias carrying on the tradition.

And . . . it was brought up that the town is in need of several new businesses...a bookstore or yarn shop being a couple mentioned. I'm ready to move! ;-)

I have reviewed the other two books in the trilogy and if this doesn't seem as glowing as my review for Catching Fireflies, it is only because I feel so strongly about bullying. This was an immensely satisfying read and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Sweet Magnolia novels.


Where Azaleas Bloom is not available at the publisher at this time but is available for pre-order at amazon and Barnes and Noble with a release date of August 28. As always, check your favorite bookseller.

Sherryl Woods website. She also has a blog and a Facebook account.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of the Barnes and Noble and amazon

 Where Azaleas Bloom
A Sweet Magnolia Novel
by Sherryl Woods

publisher: Harlequin MIRA
On-Sale Date: September 2012
ISBN: 978-0778313694
Mass Market Paperback
Romance
18+
384 pages plus Discussion Questions

Grade: B+

Product Description:

Single mom Lynn Morrow is determined to put food on the table for her son and daughter. Her soon-to-be-ex-husband has failed to meet his obligations time and again-but it turns out that Ed is struggling with his own demons.

Enter contractor Mitch Franklin, an unlikely knight in shining armor. A widower with two grieving sons, Mitch once admired Lynn from afar. Now he sees in her not only the sweet girl who got away, but a woman desperately in need of support. While rushing to the rescue of Lynn and her children comes naturally, he's also wise enough to encourage Lynn to find her own way...hopefully straight into his arms.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thoughts on ... Catching Fireflies

The group of women central to the series Sweet Magnolia are fiercely loyal. It all started out with three girls in school and in Catching Fireflies the loyality envelopes a town.

Ms. Woods has a very stirring "Dear Friends" letter to start off this book. "While there are often subtle messages tucked away in my stories, I hope the message in Catching Fireflies is loud and clear. There is nothing cute or normal or acceptable about bullying, whether it's a toddler on the playground or a teenager using the internet to torment a classmate. Pay attention to what may be happening to your children, no matter how young or how old. Pay even closer attention to how they're treating others. Bullying is wrong. It needs to stop. And alert parents and teachers and a united community can make that happen."

With that in mind, I started reading.

How do you review a romance book about bullying? Is this a romance book? It most certainly is. The basic storyline of boy meets girl is there. The bullying might have been a reason for the two of them to meet and even spend time together, but sparks flew.

It is also a strong message for all of us. Bullying hurts. I am not on school grounds anymore and my children are grown. I'm not even involved with the children at church. The only way I can fight this is to share with you and hope you can have some influence.

My emotions are all over the map with this story. I was scared, angry, afraid, and indignant. I cheered, laughed out loud and cried. I was out for blood.

And when I finished. . . I wanted to shout to the world. Bullies learn their behavior somewhere. Bullies come in all shapes, colors and ages. Please make sure it doesn't happen where you are. Don't be a bully in retaliation. Stand up for yourself but don't bully the bully. (yes, that could be difficult advice to follow and it comes up in the book).

I thought this might be a difficult story to read and while the subject matter is harsh, it flows well and the story is, ultimately, a romance. There are also several tangents that could lead to other books. :-)

I was very happy to see that the trilogy would all be published in 2012. I was estatic when I received all three at the same time and planned on posting a review close to each publication date with a guest post preceding the review. I mentioned how great this new trilogy would be as a winter time gift when I reviewed Midnight Promises. I take that back. Read it as soon as you can, don't wait. Give the trilogy to friends but really, don't wait to read Catching Fireflies yourself.

Stealing Home was great. Midnight Promises was fabulous. Catching Fireflies sealed Ms. Woods fate as one of my backlist authors. I'm so glad so many of them are still in print! I read Catching Fireflies basically in one sitting and while I'd love to start Where Azaleas Bloom right away, I think I need some sleep first.

Catching Fireflies is not available at the publisher at this time but is available for pre-order at amazon and Barnes and Noble with a release date of July 31. As always, check your favorite bookseller.

Sherryl Woods website. She also has a blog and a Facebook account.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of the Barnes and Noble and amazon

 Catching Fireflies
A Sweet Magnolia Novel
by Sherryl Woods

publisher: Harlequin MIRA
On-Sale Date: August 2012
ISBN: 978-0778313595
Mass Market Paperback
Romance
18+
384 pages plus Discussion Questions

Grade: A

Product Description:

When bullying threatens to destroy a teen’s life, painful memories resurface for dedicated high school teacher Laura Reed and pediatrician J. C. Fullerton. With the support of the Sweet Magnolias, they bring the town together to ensure that a promising student’s future isn’t ruined. And to establish once and for all that bullying has no place in Serenity, South Carolina.

Both J.C.’s and Laura’s passion for the cause is deeply personal, and their growing feelings for each other are just as strong. But with so many secret hurts to overcome, can these two vulnerable lovers find the strength to believe in happily ever after?

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012