Knight by Kristen Ashley (Review)

Kristen Ashley
BN ID: 2940033157570
Publisher: Kristen Ashley, via Smashwords
Publication date: 4/8/2012
Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
Format: eBook
Sales rank: 6,615
File size: 707 KB


Back Blurb
Anya Gage has learned that to get anything good in life, you have to work for it. She has no expectations, no dreams. Then she finds herself at a party where she doesn’t want to be and she meets Knight.

Knight Sebring knows who he is, what he wants and what he likes. And he gets it. But he never expected something as sweet as Anya Gage to wander into his bedroom during a party he did not expect to be having to borrow his phone.

Knight tries to leave Anya to the life she deserves of white picket fences and a man who watches football on Sundays – good, normal and clean. But when Anya comes to his nightclub and finds herself in a situation, he knows someone has to look after her, he can’t fight it anymore and he decides that man will be him. Knight teaches Anya that, just as with the bad, in life you should also expect the good. And he teaches her this by giving it to her. But Knight has a dark past and just as he desires Anya for exactly who she is, he fears when she finds out exactly the man he has become and always intends to be, she’ll leave him for good, normal and clean.


My Thoughts:
I normally like Kristin Ashley books, such as The Dream Man series and Tack's family and friends. But with KNIGHT, of The Unfinished Hero series, I had problem with the dialogues and the writing. I didn't like Knight enough to warm up to him and sometimes Anya could be annoying too. The story was okay but not so great. I think it did get better toward the middle end of the book. This is not one of my favorite but I did enjoy it for what it was. I know others would enjoy this book more than I would, so don't let my review stop you from reading KNIGHT. You would have to read the book, to judge it for yourself. I noticed that Creed story will be told for book #2 of the Unfinished Heroes. I'm looking forward to read the book, and hope it would be better than KNIGHT.

However, my favorite of Kristin Ashley's books are from The Dream Man series, and I really enjoyed them. While these books are repetitive and sometime annoying, I do like them! I recommend anyone to read them if you are fan of first POV, alpha heroes and steamy sex. I'm surprised I enjoyed these series so much, because first POV is not my cup of tea. I love alpha heroes who are strong, wild, tough, outrageous but really soft when it comes to their heroines or their kids.

Grade: 3.5

50 Books ChallengeMy June Books

Sorry, it has been such a long time since I post on my blog. Summer has been keeping me too busy lately. I spent times with my family, celebrating summer holidays/birthday and trying to catch up on some of the movies and TV shows that I've missed on Netflix. I've only seen the first season of Spartacus and really love the main actor, Andy Whitfeld, who played 'Spartacus' but I'm sadden to see he passed away last year. I thought his role were well done and the actor did a great job. And I loved him, sexy and all! It would be interesting to see the new actor who is replaced by Andy and see if the new guy can do 'Spartacus' but, Andy will be missed. I also seen the first eight episodes of season 1 from Dexter, as well as the first few episodes of season 1 from True Blood and the first few episodes of season 1 from Vampire Diaries. I have enjoyed them all.

Right now, I'm currently reading Try Me by Olivia Cunning. This is only available in ebook, not in print. And it's the first book to 'The Sole Regret' book. This series should keep me busy until the next upcoming book #3 'The Sinner' series, which is releasing in November 1, 2012, Double Time. I've just finished reading At Last by Jill Shalvis and I loved it! I'd enjoyed all of the Lucky Harbor series and looking forward to read the next upcoming book #6 Forever and a Day, releasing July 31, 2012. My favorite heroes, so far, of series are Sawyer, Ty and Matt - YUM! Not sure what I'll read next. I'm thinking to get back to Toni Blake's Destiny series book with the newest book Willow Springs (released June 26, 2012). I have enjoyed all the Destiny books so far and highly recommend it!

Here are the books I've read in June. It has been a good month, since I also been trying to catch up on my reading this summer. I've read a total of five books in June and since January, a total of 32 books all together! My challenge is to read 50 books before the end of the year and I think I'm getting closer there - YAY! After the first 50 books are done, then I can challenge myself to read the next 50 books before the end of the year. Wish me luck!

Four authors are 'new to me authors' and I enjoyed reading them. But my most favorite is Edge of Courage by Elaine Levine. I loved the book and HIGHLY recommend it! I went through lot of emotions reading this book. It's romantic suspense and has a military theme. It was an easy and fast read too.

JUNE
28. Forbidden Hero by Laura Kayne (ebook) - 4 stars
29. Club Shadowland by Cherise Sinclair (ebook) – 3.5 stars
30. The Witness by Nora Roberts (ebook) – 4.5 stars
31. Betting Hearts by Dee Tenorio (ebook) – 4 stars
32. The Edge of Courage by Elaine Levine (ebook) – 5 stars

Celebrating Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day! Hope everyone have a great time celebrating with family and friends with good foods and fireworks! Here a photo of the cupcake I bought with U.S Flag topper. Delicious! Now celebrate and have a good rest of the 4th of July - Wednesday!

50 Books Challenge : May Books

Here are the books I have read in May. I'm excited to say that I've read 6 books in May and a
total of 27 books since I started in January! I hope to be able to read more in the upcoming months until the end of December.

This month, I have read some good books. I was excited to read Julie James' About That Night, finally. I loved it as I always do with the rest of her other books. Except this one, the sex were more steamier than her previous works, which I also like. The humors are also there as well as the hero/heroine bantering, but maybe there are less of it. But I really enjoyed the book and loved Kyle and Rylann together. I also loved Lucky in Love by Jill Shalvis, the latest Lucky Harbor series. Ty and Mallory are so good together and I loved every moments of them on pages. The emotions, the hearts and humors is just my kind of book I like to read. I'm looking forward to get my hands on the next release, At Last, which is on June 26, 2012! Notice, I've been reading some of Jill Shalvis' older works too. I've all of her books and finally able to read them, so I'm now up to dated on her books. Although I have read many books by Lora Leigh, there are still some I need to read or catch up on. I loves Lora Leigh books, especially the ones with the best friend/lover theme. I wish there were more theme like this one, but sometime it really hard to find.

Below are the books I read in May. These were some good books read! Wish me luck that I be able to continue to read more in the next few months.

MAY
22. About That Night by Julie James (print book) – 4.5 stars
23. Wicked Pleasure by Lora Leigh (reissue MMPB/print book) – 4 stars
24. Instant Temptation by Jill Shalvis (ebook/Wilder Advent trilogy) – 4.5 stars
25 Nauti Intentions by Lora Leigh (print book) – 4.5 stars
26. Lucky in Love by Jill Shalvis (print book) – 4.5 stars
27. Superb and Sexy by Jill Shalvis (ebook/Sky High trilogy) – 4.5

Upcoming New Release SpotlightLucky In Love by Jill Shalvis

Ever since I fell in love with Jill Shalvis' first three Lucky Harbor novel, I knew I want more. I'm so excited that Lucky in Love, book #4 of the Lucky Harbor novel, is releasing this summer on May 22! I've waited for a long time for this book and I can't wait to finally read it! *happy Snoopy's dance*

I love Jill's witty humors, sweet, steamy romance with warmth heart in her contemporary romance books. And I can't forget she also wrote good alpha heroes, who will melt your heart. She is my auto buy author and I recommend anyone to read it! Here is Jill Shalvis'website for more info. And here are the links to pre-order at B&N and Amazon. The release date is May 22, 2012. Aren't the book cover (see below) so romantic and sweet?!

The Blurb:
Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she’s expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she’d like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he’s only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he’s gone…
For the first time in his life, Ty can’t bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn?t?including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all…anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

Books I bought In May

I've been pretty much busy and became kinda lazy to post anything on my blog. And yet, I've got a lot of reading done these past few months. Since the summer is almost here, I've decided to try to spend more times on my reading too. So far in May, I've read 4 books. I'm hoping to read more books in by the end of May. Wish me luck!

Below are the books I bought this month. They're all authors I've read for many years and had became my favorites. I admit that I'm sorry to see that Sweet Spot is the last book for Richmond Rogues baseball series. I'm going to miss them. Also I'm very used to read Roxanne St. Clair's Bullet Catcher series and sad to hear that it will be the last one but for a while. I'm anxious to try her new contemporary romance Barefoot Bay series soon. The last book, is 'new to me author'. I have read many reviews on this book and the idea of a heroine working for a legendary female assassin, and she only employs women, working together with group of mercenaries men for a rescue missions pique my interest!

Next time, I will post the upcoming May books that I'm looking forward to buy soon!

Barefoot in the Sand by Roxanne St. Claire
Overview:
When a hurricane roars through Lacey Armstrong's home on the coast of Barefoot Bay, she decides all that remains in the rubble is opportunity. A new hotel is just what Mimosa Key needs, and Lacey and her teenage daughter are due for a fresh start. And nothing, especially not a hot, younger architect, is going to distract Lacey from finally making her dreams a reality.

A second chance is the only thing you have left.

Love has already cost Clay Walker everything. And if he's going to have any chance of picking up the pieces of his life, he needs the job as Lacey Armstrong's architect. What's not in the plans is falling for the headstrong beauty. Her vision of the future is more appealing than anything he could have ever drafted for himself. Will Clay's designs on Lacey's heart be more than she can handle, or will she trust him to build something that will last forever?

The Last Boyfriend by Nora Roberts

Overview:
Owen is the organizer of the Montgomery clan, running the family’s construction business with an iron fist—and an even less flexible spreadsheet. And though his brothers bust on his compulsive list-making, the Inn BoonsBoro is about to open right on schedule. The only thing Owen didn’t plan for was Avery McTavish...

Avery’s popular pizza place is right across the street from the inn, giving her a first-hand look at its amazing renovation—and a newfound appreciation for Owen. Since he was her first boyfriend when they were kids, Owen has never been far from Avery’s thoughts. But the attraction she’s feeling for him now is far from innocent.

As Avery and Owen cautiously take their relationship to another level, the opening of the inn gives the whole town of Boonsboro a reason to celebrate. But Owen’s hard work has only begun. Getting Avery to let down her guard is going to take longer than he expected—and so will getting her to realize that her first boyfriend is going to be her last…

Sweet Spot by Kate Angell
Editorial Reviews
Publishers Weekly
Angell’s fifth Richmond Rogues baseball romance (after Sliding Home) is another lighthearted contemporary in which a rakehell athlete is tamed by a quirky, passionate woman. Star second baseman James “Law” Lawless and ambitious financial adviser Cat May have a memorable sexual encounter while in costumes and masks at a night club. He spends much of the book trying to identify “Wonder Woman” while she tries to pretend the incident never happened. Meanwhile, as affluent investor, Law meets Cat in her professional role and is wowed by her business acumen. Disappointingly, there is little of the baseball trivia that gave the earlier books their charm, but fans of the Richmond Rogues will enjoy cameo appearances from the whole team and their sweethearts. Agent: Roberta Brown, Brown Literary Agency.

Under Fire by Catherine Mann

Overview:
No Holds Barred, In Love or War...

A decorated hero, pararescueman Liam McCabe lives to serve. Six months ago, her and Rachel Flores met in the horrific aftermath of an earthquake in the Bahamas. They were tempted by an explosive attraction, but then they parted ways. Still, Liam has thought about Rachel every day—and night—since.

Now, after ignoring all his phone calls for six month, Rachel has turned up on base with a wild story about a high–ranking military traitor. She claims no one but Liam can help her—and she won't trust anyone else.

With nothing but her word and the testimony of a discharged military cop to go on, Liam would be insane to risk his career—even his life— to help a woman who left him in the dust.

Midnight Rescue by Elle Kennedy
Overview:
Dangerous. Ruthless. Savage. And she's the good guy.

Abby Sinclair had a desperate childhood until she was rescued and adopted by a retired army ranger who molded her into a master of self-defense. Now, she's a cunning and fearless assassin thrust into assignment after dangerous assignment, using everything she has-nerve, resilience, strength, sex-to come out on top. Her only rule: trust no one.
Abby's latest assignment is in Columbia: go undercover and snuff out a dangerous arms dealer active in the underground sex trade. But when Abby purposely blows her cover in a last-ditch attempt to free the helpless victims, deadly mercenary Kane Woodland is recruited as back-up. His mission: get Abby out of that hell hole.

The last thing Kane expects is to feel a primal attraction for Abby. But when she convinces him to join her on her perilous mission, their newfound passion could put the lives of their whole team at risk.

Happy Mother's Day to all moms out there! Hope you have a wonderful day with your love ones and everything else fun you do!!!

The Fifty Shades trilogyReview

The Fifty Shades trilogy has been an ongoing controversy for months now. I wasn't planning on reading them, not because of the controversy whether it is negative or positive, but because normally first person POV isn't my cup of tea. It wasn’t until one of my friends encouraged me to read them that I decided to give the trilogy a try. She raved about this couple, their story and especially the hero, Christian. So with that in mind I picked up the first book, The Fifty Shades of Grey, not knowing what to expect but hopeful. The first two chapters in I was unsure, because Ana is 21 years old and I found her voice somewhat annoying, but I kept reading and as the story progressed I started to become pulled in the story and intrigued with this couple.

Christine is a billionaire, a wealthy man who owned a big company. He wanted to introduce Ana to his world of Sub/DOM lifestyle to give her sexually submissive feel, which both excites and frighten her. Although there are aspects that Ana does not feel comfortable with, they are both willing to compromise. Ana soon discovered his dark secret and understood why he needed to be in this lifestyle. Ana continued to see him even though it scared her.

As I read, I wanted to know more about Christian's dark history, his childhood and how he became the man he is now. Had this been a real life situation, his need to control and full blown stalker behavior would have me running in the opposite direction. Being that this is fiction and anything is possible I was willing to go along for the ride. While Christian is by any definition an alpha hero, he is also a tortured soul who can be sweet, charming and romantic with a vulnerability that makes you want to wrap your arms around him and and make it all better. You can see how much he loves Ana the way she is, how willing he is to compromise and how shocked he is that he has fallen in love for the very first time. He worry that his dark secret could scare Ana away, so he kept it to himself and try to avoid telling her.

On the other hand, Ana came across as naive and annoying at a times because as she is somewhat immature, although she is funny as well. I would say she is an adventurous heroine because she always considers what Christian wants and is brave enough to step outside her comfort zone and to stand up to Christian. She comes to loves Christian in a way that no other has ever made him feel loved before. She is a courageous soul, feisty and stands behind Christian despite his many flaws.

As I continued on with the last two books, Darker and Freed, I watched as their relationship developed and it was enjoyable to see both Ana and Christian learning about each other and meeting each other half way when it came to what would make them both happy. Of course there will be some up and down issues between them but at the end of the day, their loves for each other is never lost. I thought there something special about them and their relationship that had me rooting for their HEA. I felt emotionally invested in this trilogy, in this amazing couple and came to really love and enjoy them.

I have read BDSM erotic books before, so there isn't anything that is done in books that I haven't seen that would surprise me. For me personally, the BDSM in Fifty Shades trilogy, is almost a minor part of the story even though sex is seen throughout the course of the books. The graphic details were tame than the ones that are out there. The languages were not too crude. To me the main focus of the story is all about Ana and Christian, their story and their relationship development and growth. That’s what made me love the Fifty Shades trilogy. It wasn’t the BDSM part, even though it is sourcing hot! It was about learning to change and be what you want to be. Something about Christian just grabbed hold of me and has not let me go. It is why I want more of him, even though I know I should be running away from him. Maybe it is because I find myself a lot like him when I was younger, being too hard on myself and learning to love and accept who I am and make changes for the better. And yes, there is a plot in the story! I weren't have enjoyed the book if there was no plot.

There were some parts where the moments are intense and very moving, I felt emotionally connected to this couple. There also some moments where I laughed, smiled and got angry. Sometime I wanted to shake some sense into Ana and and tell her to think before she does something. I did enjoy their email correspondence and found her inner goddess funny.

I honestly have to say I am surprised that I enjoy the Fifty Shades trilogy. The Shades books must have said something big to me because I really enjoyed it, even though first person POV is not my cup of tea! Although Ana’s voice and action are sometime childish, these books are definitely for the grown-up. I personally do not think this is YA book, at all.

There wasn't anything I dislike about these books, except that sometime Ana drove me nuts. I felt the writing could have been improved with editing, thought I hear it has been corrected in the print copies. I enjoyed this trilogy enough that I went ahead and bought them individual in print and looking forward to seeing what changes were made. I love The Fifty Shades trilogy! I have to thank my friend, Linda for recommend me the Fifty Shades trilogy; otherwise I would have missed these great books and this wonderful couple! Thank YOU!

Book #2; Fifty Shades Darker is my favorite out of the trilogy. Freed is my second favorite. However I enjoyed them all! I'm excited that Fifty Shades will be made into a movie soon!

Fifty Shades of Grey - 4 stars
Fifty Shades Darker - 4.5 stars
Fifty Shades Freed - 4.5 stars

My Monthly Books Read

How is everyone doing in April going? I hope all is good. The months speed by so fast that it is hard for me to catch up and update my blog. I will try my best to post whenever I can. I notice I have not post my monthly books read since the beginning of this year. Or did I? I decided to post it today, or else I will forget later. If you notice some of my reading were in ebooks format and other are in print books. I was given a gift of Nook Simple Touch on the day of Thanksgiving Black Friday sale, last year. Since then I started reading ebooks and find how easily it is to buy the ebooks and get it within in few second into my Nook. And my reading speed up really quickly than I can imagine. While I do love my Nook, I'm still buying print books too. Most of the time,I find myself miss turning the pages, holding books, smell the pages or even see some beautiful covers art in person. So I will continue to buy both print paper and ebooks to satisfy my reading experience.

I have always love re-reading favorite books because I always like to go back and 'visit old friends' again. It felt like 'home' and it's comfort read for me. If you notice some of my books are re-read. At first I was not sure if I should added them into my monthly books read, but I decided to added them because it all part of my reading challenge. Below are my monthly book read from January - March. Toni Blake ,Lorelei James and Jill Shalvis are some of my favorite authors. So I'm always excited to read their books.

I'm currently reading the Fifty Shades trilogy by E.L. James, and I'm just starting on book 3 Fifty Shades Freed. So far book 2, Fifty Shades Darker, is my favorite of the trilogy even though I did enjoy Fifty Shades of Grey. I am enjoying the trilogy and I love Christian. I need me some Christian!! I know there have been some controversial on these trilogy and whether it is in negative or positive discussion, I do recommend it to people to at least give these trilogy a chance and read it.

JANUARY
1. Swept Away by Toni Blake – 4 stars
2. Her Innocence, His Conquest by Jules Bennett – 4 stars
3. Whisper Falls by Toni Blake (re-read) 4.5 stars
4. Sugar Creek by Toni Blake (re-read) 4 stars

FEBURARY
5. Changing the Game by Jaci Burton – 4.5 stars
6. Cowboy Casanova by Lorelei James (ebook) – 4.5 stars
7. Shane’s Stand by Suzanne Brockmann (ebook) 4 stars
8. Dangerous Grounds by Shelli Stevens – (ebook) 4 stars
9. Wrangled and Tangled by Lorelei James – 4 stars

MARCH
10. Time Out by Jill Shalvis (ebook) - 4 stars
11. Exclusively Your by Shannon Stacey - 4 stars
12. Game for Anything by Bella Andre – (ebook) 3.5 stars
13. Smart and Sexy by Jill Shalvis – (ebook) 4 stars
14. Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis – (ebook) 4.5 stars
15. Because of You by Jessica Scott – (ebook) 4 stars
16. Strong and Sexy by Jill Shalvis – (ebook) 4.5 stars

Upcoming Print book!The King's Mistress by Sandy Blair

I read The King's Mistress by Sandy Blair and loved it! Have you read it yet? If not, I recommend that you do. The upcoming trade size paperback book is coming out on June 5, 2012. Sandy Blair is one of my favorite author and I have been reading her historical books for long times. I love the way she writes! She also write good humors and sexy heroes in kilts to die for. I've waited for a long time to get The King's Mistress in paperback so I can put it in for my keeper bookshelf. I'm excited that now I can!

You can read it in both ebook and pre-order print book. Here at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Here is the Book Trailer for The King's Mistress and an excerpt.

The overview:

The long way home could be the shortest road to ruin.

The king of Scotland is in a snit. Which means Britt MacKinnon, proud captain of the king’s guard, has an onerous task: fetch Alexander’s favorite paramour back to the royal bed—now. Never mind that the crown should be about the business of getting a legitimate heir. Especially since England’s Edward I would love nothing more than to seize an empty Scottish throne.

When the handsome soldier appears on her doorstep, Geneen Armstrong has to think quickly. Her twin lies abed in her cottage, pregnant with the king’s bastard. If the barren queen learns the truth, the foolish girl’s life won’t be worth a farthing.

She must somehow transform her graceless, plain-spoken self into her vivacious, talented sister. Then, after the court is convinced she carries no child, use her herbal knowledge to sour the king’s taste for her sister’s company—for good.

By the time Britt realizes this unusually articulate, ungodly stubborn woman is the wrong woman, tendrils of attraction have already tightened into a bond. A bond that will be tested when the king’s unexpected death puts Scotland’s very destiny at stake—and unleashes an ever-tangling web of court intrigues, secrets...and lies.

Upcoming Release BookAbout That Night by Julie James

I have read all of Julie James' books and I'm very excited that she is going to continue to write more FBI/US Attorney series books for me to look forward to read! Ever since A Lot Like Love came out last year in March and we were introduced to Kyle Rhodes, I just knew I want to know more about him. So glad that we will get to read his story and see him get his HEA in About That Night. This book will release on April 3rd, which is just one week from today --- *doing a happy Snoopy dance* YAY, I can't wait!!!!

Below are the summary blurb of the book. You can also read excerpt too. I also included Julie James' Giveaway contest from her blog to win Kindle Fire and $25 gift card to Amazon. Or $200 to Amazon or B&N. Five runner-up get the book, About That Night. I have linked it below :)

ABOUT THAT NIGHT
FBI/US ATTORNEY SERIES, BOOK 3
IN STORES APRIL 3, 2012

HE’S PLAYING GAMES

Though Rylann Pierce tried to fight the sparks she felt for billionaire heir Kyle Rhodes the night they met, their sizzling chemistry was undeniable. But after being stood up on their first date, Rylann never expected to see him again. So when she finds herself face-to-face with Kyle in a courthouse nine years later, she’s stunned. More troubling to the beautiful assistant U.S. attorney is that she’s still wildly attracted to him.

BUT SHE’S MAKING THE RULES

Just released from prison, Kyle Rhodes isn’t thrilled to be the star witness in a high-profile criminal case—but when Rylann comes knocking at his door, he finds she may be the one lawyer he can’t say no to. Still as gorgeous and sharp-tongued as ever, she lays down the law: she doesn’t mix business with pleasure. But Kyle won’t give up on something he wants—and what he wants is the one woman he’s never forgotten...

Here excerpt of the book.
And here is the link to Julie James' Giveaway Contest from her blog.

Enjoy and have a good day! :)

Favorite Dessert & Favorite Author

This is my favorite dessert. In Vietnamese we call it "Che Ba Mau" (which means 3 colors Che). We make them on any holidays event at the church during the festival fair. There are recipes to make this. Very easy to make. Try them :)

And this is the ebook I just bought on Tuesday March 20,2012, for my Nook. It's Born to Darkness by Suzanne Brockmann latest new series book. I'm excited and looking forward to read this book very soon! I have been a fan of Suzanne's books since her Troubleshooter series and Tall, Dark and Dangerous series. Love both.

What about you? What are you currently reading?

New Release Books

First Happy Valentine's Day everyone! May love fill your life today and everyday :)

Here are the books which I bought on their release day! I have never try the books by Sarah McCarty or Shiloh Walker but I do have their series books in my TBR bookshelf. Hopefully I will get to their books soon. I read a review on Shiloh Walker's latest book If You See Her which got good grade and high praises from a friend and it's made me want to read it! Lora Leigh is the only author on this list who I have read over the years and have enjoyed most of her books. Happy reading everyone!

Nauti Deceptions by Lora Leigh
(Jan. 31, 2012 release)
Overview
The new book in the New York Times bestselling series from a major star in hot, hot romance.
Caitlyn "Rogue" Walker left her life in Boston to become a teacher in a small Kentucky town. But her dream was shattered when she was framed in a sex scandal. Refusing to be run out of town, Caitlyn shed the identity she had and became Rogue. Sheriff Zeke Mayes knows there's more to her than meets the eye, though what meets the eye is pretty smoking. He's prepared for a long struggle getting Rogue to drop her defenses-and give in to desire. But soon Zeke will become embroiled in a deadly game that sweeps Rogue up in its wake. And when everything seems to be a matter of life and death, there is no reason to hold back...

If You See Her by Shiloh Walker
(Jan. 31, 2012 release)
Overview
A FACE IN THE MIRROR
Hope Carson may not look like a survivor, but she has escaped an abusive ex-husband and recovered from a vicious assault. Now she endures the painful memories and suspicious rumors surrounding her involvement in the attack. Her ex is a cop, so the last people she trusts are law enforcement officials—and she certainly doesn’t trust how the local DA makes her feel inside.

Remy Jennings should know better. He has no business falling for a woman who he suspects may have a deeply troubled mind. And even if he did make a move, she’d bolt like a frightened rabbit. But how can he deny a burning desire that threatens to consume him? As Hope’s past catches up with her in the worst way, Remy is determined to break through her defenses, earn her trust, and keep her safe in his arms—before it’s too late.

Shadow's Stand by Sarah McCarty
(Jan. 31, 2012 release)
Overview

Shadow Ochoa is lying low in the western Kansas Territory, waiting for his fellow Texas Rangers—the Hell's Eight brotherhood—to clear his name. That is, until he's unjustly strung up for horse thieving…and pretty Fei Yen intervenes. Invoking a seldom-used law, the exotic lady prospector claims Shadow as her husband and rides off with the bridegroom shackled to her buckboard.

Savvy, fearless Fei is single-mindedly devoted to her hidden claim and all it promises: wealth, security and freedom. A husband is just a necessary inconvenience and a name on paper to hold the claim she cannot.

Shadow isn't a man to take orders from anyone, especially from lovely Fei—except that the daily friction between them ignites into nightly blazes of all-consuming passion. Soon Shadow is dreaming a little himself: of the life they could have if only Fei could see past the lure of independence. If only bounty hunters weren't closing in on him. If only he's left standing when the impending showdown has ended….

New Release Books!

Here are the books which I bought on their release day! The two authors are Cindy Gerard and Susan Mallery, they are my auto buys and one author is 'new to me author' Shannon Stacey. I haven't got a chance to read Shannon's first book Exclusively Yours yet. But my sister who has read it, did enjoyed the book and told me that I will enjoy it too. Now that I now have copy of both Exclusively Yours and Undeniably Yours, I should be ready to read both soon unless I decided to wait until the third book Yours to Keep, come out in mass market paperback. Even though I bought all three books in mass market paperback, its was original released in digital format.

Last Man Standing by Cindy Gerard
Overview:
A deadly mission.A thirst for revenge.One headstrong alpha hero and one daring woman will settle the score. LAST MAN STANDINGSpecial operative Joe Green has gone vigilante. His mission: avenge his Black Ops, Inc., brother’s death during a bloody ambush years ago in Sierra Leone. He refuses to drag the BOI team or his lover, Stephanie Tompkins, into the hunt for the man responsible, so when he finds himself beaten, starving, and alone after being falsely imprisoned for the murder of a Freetown priest, he knows he’s as good as dead. Joe meant to protect Stephanie when he walked out on their relationship, but he can’t stop her now from executing his escape. Breaking him out of prison is the easy part. After Joe’s explosive theory pans out and his cunning enemy emerges as the front runner for a high-level presidential appointment, he and Stephanie must race to derail the traitor’s conspiracy if they are to save their loved ones, the nation, and each other.

Only Yours by Susan Mallery
Overview:
Montana Hendrix has found her calling — working with therapy dogs. With a career she loves in a hometown she adores, she’s finally ready to look for her own happily ever after. Could one of her dogs help her find Mr. Right... or maybe Dr. Right?
Surgeon Simon Bradley prefers the sterility of the hospital to the messiness of real life, especially when real life includes an accident-prone mutt and a woman whose kisses make him want what he knows he can’t have. Scarred since childhood, he avoids emotional entanglement by moving from place to place to heal children who need his skillful touch. Can his growing feelings for Montana lead him to find a home in Fool’s Gold, or will he walk away, taking her broken heart with him?

Undeniably Yours by Shannon Stacey
Overview:
Can a one-night stand turn into happily ever after?
Bar owner Kevin Kowalski is used to women throwing their phone numbers at him. Even if lately he's been more interested in finding Mrs. Right than Miss Right Now. Enter Beth Hansen.

Kevin and Beth may have started out all wrong, with an impromptu passionate encounter at a wedding, followed by a walk of shame. Yet Kevin knows there's more to their relationship than a one-night stand. Especially when Beth turns up pregnant.

Kevin may be ready for the "next step," but Beth doesn't want a relationship with a former playboy, however irresistible he might be. And it's going to take a lot to convince her to go on a second date with the father of her child….

Holly Lane by Toni Blake: Review

Toni Blake
SBN-13: 9780062024602
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 10/25/2011
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Edition description: Original
Pages: 384
Series: Destiny, Ohio Series, #4

Sue Ann Simpkins is working hard to rebuild her life and find some holiday spirit. A weekend away from Destiny in a cabin on nearby Bear Lake seems like the perfect Christmas gift to herself -- until her ex's best friend, Adam Becker, shows up at the door, claiming the cabin is his! And if that's not trouble enough, how had she never noticed how gorgeous he was?

Alone for the holidays and forced to play a reindeer at the local department store, Adam's been feeling rather Scrooge-ish himself. But finding the smart, sexy woman he's admired since elementary school waiting in the house he rented is helping to brighten his humbug mood. And when a sudden snowstorm strands them together in very close quarters, leading to one very hot night together, Adam soon realizes that what he really wants for Christmas is a second chance at love. Now all he has to do is convince Sue Ann....


Sue Ann's perfect world has changed when her ex husband Jeff, divorced her six months ago. Feeling shocked and disappointed, she decided to take a weekend off and take a trip to the cabin where she can concentrate on being herself and figure out what to do. She want to stay strong for her daughter Sophie, because she wanted her to have the best Christmas and not worrying about her and Jeff aren't together anymore. But as she is about to settle down and to relax in the cabin, her ex-husband's best friend Adam, walks in the cabin.

Grumpy and disappointed that his twin sons are off for the holiday with their grandparents and won't be spending holidays with him, Adam decided to spend his time at the cabin where he and his twin sons usually go to on Thanksgiving. He wanted to keep those memory of his time spent with his boys when they are together in the cabin, the one they rented every year. But he is surprised to find Sophie in his cabin and demand to have his cabin back.

After learning the owner made a mistake on their reservation from the registry and that both Adam and Sue Ann are double booked in the same cabin, things got worse when they also found themselves snowed in as well. But sparks started to fly when their attractions collide, and their one night together was hot and steamy. The next day, they both agree that this can only be a one time thing and when they come home to Destiny, no one is to know about what happened in the cabin. When they came back to Destiny, both started to feel like...maybe their one night stand might be more than just sex between them. And no matter how hard they tried to stay away from each other, they just couldn't deny their attraction for each other is there. But because Sophie has trust issues, she fear to have relationship with Adam due to his secret and any relationship with him would mean losing custody of her daughter.

I loved that this book kinda has the classic retelling of A Christmas Carol with the premonition ghost dream thrown in, even though it is contemporary romance. I admit I wasn't expecting it in Toni Blake's Destiny novel, but I enjoyed this book because it themed around Christmas holidays and I thought it just seems to fit with A Christmas Carol added in. It was minor things, that didn't take away the story.

I loved that even behind Adam 'bah-humbug' grumpy attitude, there is a soft and sweetness side of him. The wonderful sweet things he did for little Sophie was heartfelt that it gave me those warm-fuzzy feeling moments. He wants Sophie Christmas to be special, and it surely shown in his actions. I loved the way he loves his two sons and think about them all the times. I know for sure he is a great dad. And I know a couple of times I just wanted to knock some sense out of Sue Ann and Adam when they resisting to be together, especially Sue Ann. I understand the issues about Sue Ann's fear since her divorce and not wanting to lose her daughter, but it become annoying when she keeps making that as an excuse to have chance with Adam at every opportunity.

I'm very happy to see old characters showing up again. It was nice to see them and get a peek of what they have been doing since their HEA. Especially the good surprise! And I sure hope to see them again in the next two upcoming books.

HOLLY LANE is about second chances, new beginnings, and finding love when and where you least expect it. Also it is a self discovery break through, uplifting, sweet, heartfelt, magical, romantic and steamy hot! I felt every emotions that was thrown toward me, and sighed contently after I finished and closed the book. It is the perfect book to read during Christmas time or winter, and have a cup of hot chocolate while you read it. It would sure warm your heart.

I'm a huge reader of Toni Blake's books. All of the Destiny novel are sitting in my keeper bookshelf. I know it's the novel I want to re-read over again. I'm in love with every characters in Destiny because I felt they are real, although my heart always belong to Mick and Lucky *G*. I'm looking forward to reading more of Toni Blake's upcoming Destiny books and hope they are as good as the first four books!

4.5/5 stars

What Been Going On With Me50 Books Challenge

I'm sorry for not posting enough, and the last time I posted was Christmas 2011. It had been a busy month for me, since January 2012 arrives. With the New Years and birthdays all happened at once, so that was why I delayed in posting. Plus the darn 'Gardens of Time' apps game from Facebook, which my good friend M had got me to play. I hate this game for a good reason, HA! *G* I will try to keep up and post more on my blog whenever I can. I was debating (and have been since last year) of closing this blog down because I fear that my blog isn't getting enough readership. And that it get very hard for me to think of something good to post about. But a very good friend of mine 'pushed' me to keep it running and do my best in my blog as much as I can. She said "practice make perfect". In a sense, that is true. But it is HUGE challenge for me. I'm not the best grammar and speller out there, I will admit. But I don't wish to make my readership feel uncomfortable to be here and I do hope they will stay with me as long as I still have this blog. I still use my blog to keep up with the books I read over the years and to remember what the book are about from the reviews I've done. I also want to see how many books I can read each years too. I always challenge myself to read 50 books. And if I can reach it, then I go further for 100. But no matter how fast or slow I read, I can only managed to read below 50. In 2011 I read a total of 37 books. While that isn't a bad number, it still leave me feeling...unsatisfied because I didn't reach that 50 books goal. This year, I'm going to try my best to reach that 50 books goal! And I know I'm going to need those 'push' from friends and that would be helpful for me.

I have not posted books that I read in December 2011. So here they are. See below. I only read 3 books for December but two out of the three books were very good! Both are my favorite authors. And I hope you would check them out and read their books! I also have not posted all the books I have read for 2011 either. I will post that underneath the "December Books 2011" too. I know I didn't put links to read the book's reviews for each books, but I only have limited time to blog. And it'll take me long time to link them to each books. You are more than welcome to search it around my blog. Most of my reading range from contemporary romance, romance suspense and erotic contemporary romance. A few historical and paranormal (no vamps please *G*!) And these are all books I bought on my own. And if I'm lucky enough to win books from online contests, it make me happy and I be glad to review them :) I have read many good books from my favorite authors in 2011 and I hope to continue to read plenty more books from them in 2012! I also wish everyone happy reading! :)

DECEMBER Books 2011:
35. Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis – 4 stars
36. Exotic Indulgence by Vivian Arend, Lexxie Couper and Jess Dee – 3.75 stars
37. Holly Lane by Toni Blake – 4.75 stars


50 Books Challenge 2011:
JANUARY
1. Something About You by Julie James – 4 ½ stars
2. Sugar Creek by Toni Blake – 5 stars
3. Cowgirls, Don’t Cry by Lorelei James – 4 ½ stars
4. Whisper Falls by Toni Blake – 5 stars

FEBRUARY
5. Along Came a Husband by Helen Brenna – 4 stars
6. The Sheriff’s Secret Wife by Christyne Butler – 4 stars
- Beguiled by Deeanne Gist J. Mark Bertrand - DNF
7. Body Heat by Brenda Novak – 5 stars
8. The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton – 4.5 stars
9. Deadly Fear by Cynthia Eden – 5 stars

MARCH
10. Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis – 4 stars
11. Deadly Heat by Cynthia Eden - 5 stars
12. A Lot Like Love by Julie James – 4 stars

APRIL
13. Saddled and Spurred by Lorelei James – 4 stars
14. Temperature’s Rising by Karen Kelley – 3.5 stars
15. Everyone Loves a hero by Marie Force - 4 stars
16. Deadly Lies by Cynthia Eden - 4 stars

MAY
17. Nauti Nights by Lora Leigh – 4.5 stars
18. The Search by Nora Roberts – 4 stars

JUNE
19. Burning Alive by Shannon K. Butcher

JULY
NOTHING!

AUGUST
20. Temp Me Tonight by Toni Blake – 4 stars
21. The Trouble With Paradise by Jill Shalvis – 4.5 stars

SEPTEMBER
22. Aussie Rule by Jill Shalvis – 4.5 stars
23. Going All In by Jess Dee (e-book) – 4 stars
24. Call Me Irresistible by SEP – 4.75 stars
25. Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis – 4.75 stars
26. Nauti Dream by Lora Leigh – 4 stars

OCTOBER
27. Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis – 4 stars
28. Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden – 4 stars
29. Sage Creek by Jill Gregory – 4 stars
30. Don’t Mess With Texas by Christie Graig – 4 stars

NOVEMBER
31. Chasing Eight by Lorelei James 4 stars
32. Addicted to You by Beth Kery – 4 stars
33. Courting Death by Carol Stephenson - 4 stars
34. The Sweetest Things by Jill Shalvis (re-read) – 4 stars

DECEMBER
35. Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis – 4 stars
36. Exotic Indulgence by Vivian Arend, Lexxie Couper and Jess Dee – 3.75 stars
37. Holly Lane by Toni Blake – 4 stars

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Have yourself a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from my home to your! Hope you have better and healthy year 2012! -- Julia

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Happy Thanksgiving to all the people in Blogger land! I'm thankful for all the people in my life. Without them I weren't be who I am. Lots of love for you all!!! Below we had Mr Turkey, sweet potatoes casserole, cornbread stuffing and greenbean casserole. Now shown in the picture are: cranberry sauce, rolls, ham, shrimps & crabs casserole and pumpkin pie.

Book Cover Alert : Head Over Heels

This is one of the book I have been waiting to get my hand on. Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis, is book three of the A Lucky Harbor Novel. I have already read book one Simply Irresistible but not book two The Sweetest Thing yet, because I want to wait until this book to come out first so that I can read both books one after another. I'm excited that this book will be release less than four more days! I think Chloe and Sawyer would be an interesting pair and I'm looking forward to see what they are up to. I do need to cut back on buying more books to only two books because the holidays is coming. But I will definitely go buy a copy of this book and get myself a nice winter seasonal hot drink at my local Barnes and Noble while I start on the last two books. Isn't the book cover simply sweet and romantic? *nodding head* I think so too :) I really enjoy reading Jill Shalvis and recommend readers to try her books. Start with A Lucky Harbor Novel, you won't regret it :)

FYI- About Head Over Heels: For the print book, it will come out first but ebook readers will have to wait another week.

Happy reading and shopping!

A Lot Like Love by Julie James

Julie James
Pub. Date: March 2011
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Format: Mass Market Paperback , 304pp
ISBN-13: 9780425240168
ISBN: 0425240169

Agent Nick McCall has just taken a time off from an undercover job, after he had helped take down twenty-seven dirty cops, to head back home for his mother's sixtieth birthday party when unfortunately his boss call and ruined his plan. His boss wanted his help in taking down Roberto Martino. So Nick and Agent Huxley visit Jordan's wine store The DeVine Cellars to get her to help them with the FBI undercover investigation. They asked Jordan to attend as a guest with one of them at the charity fun-raiser of famous restaurateur so that they can get a proof for a arrest. And Jordan agree but on one condition, if the FBI help her get her brother released from jail. So they set up a plan to plant bugs during Xander Eckhart party, who the FBI suspect is helping launder money for Roberto Martino. Nick first has a rule where he never get personal, especially on 'date' with Jordan since she is only an assignment. But on their first meeting, Jordan and Nick just can't seem to be together for five minute without any bantering or sarcasm.

Nick was assigned to be inside a van with the tech team, a block away from party, to make sure the recording devices are working correctly during their undercover Op. And Agent Huxley was to be Jordan's 'date' at Xander Eckhart party, and plant in some bugs in his office for record of proof. The morning of the day when the plan was to take place, Agent Huxley got sick and Mick end up taking over his place instead. When the bugs were set and the plan working, Nick and Jordan thought that they can now forget about everything and move on with their life but unfortunately Xander had other plan. Because of this, to avoid blowing up their undercover op, they decided to continue to 'date' each other until they make the arrest. And while Nick and Jordan pretend to be a couple, he begin to learn more about Jordan and her love for wine tasting along the way. She gave him a tour to the winery and show him how to know the different about each wines. Jordan may be a billionaire's daughter, but she is financially independence and is the owner of her own wine business DeVine Cellers. And she won't let anyone think she doesn't know how to run her business. And even when they are bantering at each other, spark fly between them and they have fallen hard.

After his girlfriend has broken his heart, Jordan's brother Kyle was arrested for hijacking twitter and causing the Great Twitter Outage of 2011. But Jordan know that Kyle had learn from his mistake and doesn't think that he deserved to be in jail. So when an opportunity walk into her life, a chance to help her brother release from jail, she took a chance on it.

I thought A Lot Like Love is another enjoyable books I've read. It is a fun, smart and steamy. I love the sexual tension between Jordan and Nick. The bantering were so witty it made me chuckle. One of my favorite scene is when Nick saw Jordan in the dress that she is wearing to the Charity fun-raiser event for the first time. He was starring at the dress and thinking how he like her in the dress. His reaction to the back of the dress had me chuckling. And his reaction when he discovered that she was braless...priceless! I couldn't stop laughing over it! I also like that we get to see Kyle and how he adjusting his time in jail. And see the people he interacted with there and the funny comments said about him. I loved that he is said to look like Josh Holloway from the TV show Lost and his reaction to it when someone mention the look-a-like. And some of the scenes at the winery was plus. I thought the book cover is pretty sexy and I love the fact that the h/h 'look' and their clothing they worn are true to what is inside the story. I've always complaint how the front cover of the book does not match what is inside the book, but I'm so happy that this book didn't disappoint me.

I have always enjoy reading Julie James' books. Her books always managed to make me smile, laugh and made my heart flutter. I love the humors and sarcastic dialogue between the characters in her writing. I also love that her heroine are strong and smart. I have read up to the first three books and I had finished reading A Lot Like Love since this May 11th but is now just posting this review up (yes am so late in reviewing this book). I don't think there are any James' books that I didn't enjoy.

4 1/2 stars