Sheer Dynamite by Jennifer Skully

Opal Smith is uniquely normal for her family. While her mother, brother and sister are certified psychics, she feels cheated by her lack of abilities and wishes she could find that particular skill that would make her complete. So while driving one day, she has a vision of a body falling from a bridge onto the highway. Thinking this might be her gift, she slams on her brakes and finds herself the first car in a three car pileup. Jack Davis spent a good chunk of his life rescuing his mother from one ordeal after another. So when he runs into the beautiful girl’s rear end, his rescue instincts kicked in and soon Jack finds himself helping Opal to prove that her vision was real. But will Jack settle for being Opal’s knight in shining armor or will he risk everything to win Opal’s love.

Jennifer did it again. While the book started out slow, it finished with a bang (pun intended). Once I got past the middle of the book, I just couldn’t put it down. I liked the weird collection of characters that made up Opal’s family and how everything came together. Definitely enjoyable and worth reading.

Details: HQN, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Dead End Dating by Kimberly Raye

Lil Marchette is a born vampire (as opposed to the made kind), whose reasons for living include Gucci, Christian Dior and Donna Karan. She’s rather die than wear the uniform of the family business – a lime green polo shirt with Midnight Moe’s stitched over the pocket and matching Dockers. Instead she decided to open her own business, Dead End Dating – a matchmaking service catering to both humans and vampires. But when a bounty hunter named Ty Bonner enters her life looking for a serial killer who seems to frequent dating services, Lil knows she’s in for a rough time. Even though he’s seriously hot, Lil knows dating him would be a major mistake, since he’s a made vampire and therefore can’t procreate. Still, Lil can’t help but wonder what he’d be like in bed. Now Lil finds that the serial killer is after some of her clients. Will she call for Ty’s help or will she face the killer alone, knowing that she might be his next victim?

It was bound to happen sooner or later, a real vampire chick-lit novel. Anyone who can create a character who loves Janet Evanovich is alright in my book. This is pretty funny book as you watch Lil and her obsession with designer fashions deal with all of the normal problems that anyone would face in starting a matchmaking service – providing that many of their customers only came out at night and drank blood instead of eating. This is definitely an interesting spin on the paranormal world and I can’t wait to see the next book in the series :) .

Details: Ballantine, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

I’m the Vampire, That’s Why by Michelle Bardsley

Jessica Mathews last thoughts before she became a vampire was wondering why her fourteen year old son couldn’t remember take out the trash. Her first conscious thought as a vampire was a desire to know why she was sucking blood from the thigh of a naked hottie. Soon, Jessica found herself in the middle of a vampire war, lead by her hottie, Patrick O’Halloran. She also learned about the ancient prophesy that foretold her marriage to Patrick. But despite her attraction to the leader, Jessica felt a responsibility to her children and refused to even consider sex with him as sex was the vampire equivalent of a wedding. When an attack leaves Patrick facing eternal death, will Jessica be willing to sacrifice everything including her family to save him?

This was a pretty cute book as it explored the issues of a single mother turned vampire who with two kids who became a vampire. The desire to share a normal life with her family left Michelle plenty of opportunities for humor. I really liked Jessica, especially how she acted like a real mother with two kids. This is definitely a unique book and one that I heartily recommend to all vampire lovers with families.

Details: Signet Eclipse, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Phule’s Errand by Robert Asprin with Peter J. Heck

In the distant future, the Space Legion is a place where someone can get a fresh start and a new name. Individuals are assigned to various units depending on their skills, but the biggest screw-ups always seem to end up in Omega Company under command of Caption Jester. Caption Jester, otherwise known as William Phule is the son of the man who owns Phule Pruf Munitions. Wealthy like his father, Phule is perhaps the only person in the Legion to employ his own butler. But Beeker isn’t just any butler as Phule has trusted him with managing his not inconsiderable fortune. But when Beeker disappears, Phule is left with no other option but to follow him. And of course Phule’s commanding officer, General Blitzkrieg chooses that time to conduct a surprise inspection of the Omega Company. Now Phule and the Omega Company must find Beeker, before Blitzkrieg finds the evidence he needs to though Phule of the Space Legion forever.

This is the sixth book in the Phule series and it’s just as funny as the rest. The book is filled with puns and other word plays. For instance, Phule tracks Beeker to a tourist planet with a wild west theme. But while the people on the planet have figured out cowboys, they couldn’t decide what kind of Indians were in the wild west, so they choose all three. So Phule meets East Indians, West Indians and Wild Indians along with way, each complete with their unique language. If you haven’t read any of the other books in the series, you really should start with the first book, Phule’s Company. But if you’ve been following this series, I suggest you run right to your nearest book and pick up a copy.

Details: Ace, August 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Indulge by Nancy Warren

When Mercedes Esteves drew J. Dennis McClary’s business card from the “Booty Bowl”, she knew she was in for a hot time. After all, she was the one that contributed his name in the first place. Her short relationship with Dennis was all about sex – hot sex to be sure, but a real relationship was more than just sex. Not once during the entire time they were together, did Dennis actually take her out on a date. Mercedes was willing to give him a second chance, if he agreed to date her instead of just hopping into bed. But even if Dennis was willing, Mercedes wondered if he could actually stick to the agreement, or would she be the first one to break the new rules?

In the latest book in the For a Good Time Call… series, Nancy creates a set of characters who’s powerful attraction to each other seems to dominates else in their lives. In most reunion stories many years pass between now and when the characters were previously together. However this story brings back characters who’ve been apart for only a few months. I’ve always wondered if you could do this, and Nancy proved you can – but only in a very good story. I liked the way she created a secondary romance featuring Dennis’s assistant and another man from the “Booty Bowl”. Finally I liked the way she used Mercedes’ Mexican heritage throughout the story. I think it really added depth to her character. This is definitely a good story and one I think you’ll enjoy.

As a side note, Nancy’s story featured a walk on role for a couple with the names Wayne and Jill. This is the first time I’ve ever seen our names as a couple in a novel. My only question, is why did she have to make us lawyers? .

Details: Blaze #277, September 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

Just Trust Me… by Jacquie D'Alessandro

Inventing an anti-aging cream with aphrodisiac characteristics should have been the crowing point of Dr. Brett Thornton’s life. But instead it created a new kind of hell for him, where everyone wanted exclusive rights to his formula and was willing to stop at nothing to get it When Kayla Watson’s boss discovered Dr. Thornton was heading to the wilds of Peru for a vacation, he sent Kayla on her way with explicit orders to use all her charms to get Dr. Thornton to sign on the dotted line. Unfortunately something unplanned happened along the way – Kayla fell in love with Brett. Knowing that she will never have a future with Brett, can Kayla needs to find the strength to walk away before it’s too late.

Most of the book takes place in the Andes, which is fitting since this is another title in the Adrenaline Rush series. The amount of research Jacquie did shows in the quality and quantity of the details as the hero and heroine journey though the mountains. The sex is almost nonstop throughout the book as the hero and heroine can’t seem to get enough of each other, even though the good doctor doesn’t make use of his invention. All in all, a good book and definitely worth the time to read.

Details: Blaze #276, September 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

My Only Vice by Elizabeth Bevarly

When Sam Maguire agreed to be the Northaven chief of police, the small New England college town that was much farther away from Boston than mere distance would indicate. Here, Sam hoped to escape from the types of crimes he used to investigate on the during his time on the vice squad. The local campus police turned over their lead about a suspected drug dealer to Sam, who followed the information to Rosie Bliss, the sexy owner of the local floral shop. As far as Sam could tell, Rosie didn’t exist prior to moving to Northaven, but after a sip of her special tea, he didn’t care. He only knew that he wanted her and wanted her bad. Rosie was just happy to escape from her past and while she missed the touch of a man, she knew that any relationships would have dire consequences. When Sam entered her life, all she wanted was a temporary replacement for her vibrator, but she got much more than she bargained for. Knowing that sharing her secret with anyone could mean the end of her life, can Rosie find the strength to stay?

This is one hot book with a pair of characters that keep you wanting to read more. I absolutely loved the start of this book and nearly laughed out loud several times while reading it. The rest of the book is equally lighthearted, so if you find yourself in need of a smile, I think this book will provide the cure. Highly recommended.

Details: Blaze #273, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Anything for You by Sarah Mayberry

One day while on the beach with her sister’s family, Delaney Michaels had a revelation, she wanted a family, a husband to be there when she woke up in the morning and the joy of having children around the house. Unfortunately, her dream wasn’t compatible with her current life, partner in an extreme sports magazine with her best friend from her childhood, Sam Kirk. There was only one slight hitch – while she loved Sam, she knew that Sam didn’t love her back. Women paraded through Sam’s life like a marching band on steroids and Delany didn’t want that to happen to her. Her only option was to sell her half of the magazine to Sam, and move away and establish a new life away from him. But there’s only one problem, when she explains her desire to Sam, he’s ready to do nearly anything to keep her in his life, including taking her to bed. Now can Delany find the strength inside to walk away from Sam, or will she succumb to Sam and go back to just being friends.

In the latest story in the All About Attitude series, Sarah takes us to Australia where the characters are interesting and the sex is hot and plentiful. I loved the use of the local slang and the other cues that reinforce the idea that this action takes place somewhere different. The story itself is lighthearted and fun, which I always enjoy, though I wish Sarah took the time to dig more into the relationship between Sam and his mother. So if you’re looking for a good read, I can definitely recommend this book.

Details: Blaze #278, September 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

Fear of Falling by Cindi Myers

As Natalie Brighton drives up the twisty Colorado mountain road to the castle, she tried to pur her fears behind her. A year ago, performing with the Cirque de Paris was all she know. But after her accident, she was happy with her new job as business manager for John Sartain, aka The Satyr. The Satyr's paintings were a commercial success. His special mixture of erotic but not explicit S&M themes made him the artist of choice for many rock bands. When Sartain makes a play for Natalie, she’s intrigued and soon finds herself falling in love. But when a series of mysterious accidents start happening, Natalie wonders if they're part of Sartain's games or just someone looking to discredit him. But when things get physical, Natalie must decide whether to give in to her fears or find the strength to overcome them to protect the one she loves.

Before I read this novel I didn’t have a clue about what constitutes a gothic novel. And afterward I still don’t. Looking at the story as a mystery, the plot was somewhat transparent, but that might be common in gothic books. But that didn’t stop me from enjoying Cindi’s story. I really liked the characters’ back story and enjoyed watching it unfold over the course of the novel. I also liked how the characters changed from the beginning of the story. If you’re into gothic romances, then you’ll definitely have to read this book.

Details: Blaze #274, September 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

Hysterical Blondness by Suzanne Macpherson

Patricia Stillwell’s new experimental diet not only helped her lose weight, it also helped her hair to shed its natural color, leaving her blonde and it just happened to catch the attention of Brett Nordquist of the Nordquist Department store chain. Brett was everything she wanted in a husband, rich and handsome and full of passion. Unfortunately, to the rest of the world Brett was a drunk, playboy who didn’t give a damn about the people around him. Little did Patricia know that Paul Costello was more than just a roommate and friend, he also was in love with the real person underneath the hair. When the diet is over, and her blondeness wears off, will Patricia come to her senses and see the real Brett or is she doomed to live a live of rich misery.

I was really looking forward to reading this book, as the basic concept was an open invitation for laughter – the instant blonde hair coupled with two women and a man sharing a house, where the heroine chased after a guy that was absolutely wrong for her. But for some reason the story never grabbed me. The characters where somewhat cardboard and there were lots of obscure (at least to me ) references to fashion. Patricia had a second roommate, Pinky, who played such a major role in the beginning of the book that it took something away from Patricia’s character and Paul never quite worked for me either. I suspect that a lot of people will really enjoy this story. I just wish I was one of them.

Details: Avon, September 2006

Bottom line: A pretty good book

On the Edge by Pamela Britton

Adam Drake could have been one of the greatest drivers of all time, but when his wife abandoned him and her four year old daughter, Adam gave up racing and focused his attention on making a proper life for his little girl. But now his little girl is ten and wants the best for her father, so she runs away from home and begs Rebecca Newman to give her father a chance to drive again. When Adam raced to Becca’s house to collect his kid, he was stunned by two things – one, by Becca’s offer to try out for a slot on her race team and two, by his attraction to Becca. But Becca is afraid to open her heart to anyone after the death of her husband several years ago and tries her best to chase Adam away, even though he’s the best driver she’s seen in a long time. Now can Adam convince her to take a chance on love again or will Becca continue to be haunted by the ghosts of her past.

I have yet to read one of Pamela’s books that I didn’t like. She always creates wonderful characters that tug at your emotions, but throwing in Adam’s daughter makes this book even better. Her inside knowledge about NASCAR shows in the level of details she includes in this book, though she does it in a way that won’t intimidate anyone. But if you’re a NASCAR fan, you should drop everything, race to the store and read this book. I’m certain you’ll enjoy it.

Details: HQN, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Aphrodite’s Flame by Julie Kenner

Despite his evil father, Mordi has decided to concentrate his efforts on becoming a model superhero. But little did he realize that his father decided to do the same thing. Mordi doesn’t believe his father really wants to be good, but Isole, his father’s empathic rehabilitation councilor, believes his intentions are sincere. Knowing his father is up to something, he attempts to convince Isole that she’s wrong, but instead he ends up falling in love with the woman of his dreams. Now, not only does Mordi have to convince Isole that they belong together, he has to foil his father’s evil plot before he can take over the world.

Bad boy, Mordi returns for the fourth and most recent volume of this series. Many of the characters from the previous novels also appear in this one making it even more enjoyable for fans of the series. Again the characterization is great and the ending is arguably the strongest of the four novels. In other words, if you like Julie’s other books, you better add this one to your to be read pile :) .

Details: Love Spell, August 2004

Bottom line: A great book

Aphrodite’s Secret by Julie Kenner

Jason Murphy and Lane Kent are in love, or at least they were in love before Jason spent six long years in captivity by one of the most evil people in the world – his father. Lane didn’t realize that Jason was a Protector with the power to turn change into a dolphin, she was just angry that Jason left her the night she told him she was pregnant - the same night that Jason was captured by his father. But when Jason’s father turned his evil intentions on his grandson and Jason knew must do everything he can to protect Lane and his son. Now it’s up to Lane. Will she chase Jason away to protect her heart or will she believe Jason’s story and let him back into her life?

In the third volume of the Aphrodite series, Julie dives into the history of one of the minor characters from the previous novels. Unlike her previous superheroes, Jason isn’t all that powerful, yet his struggles to regain Lane make for a very interesting story. It’s definitely worth reading the previous books before this one as it helps to understand much of the back story. Highly recommended.

Details: Love Spell, May 2003

Bottom line: A great book