Extreme Bachelor by Julia London

Michael Raney practically lived with Broadway actress Leah Klein five years ago, but his job as a CIA operative didn’t permit luxuries like permanent relationships and the truth. So when his job forced him to return to Europe, Michael reluctantly broke up with Leah. The breakup devastated Leah, which eventually destroyed her career. Since there was nothing left for her in New York, Leah moved to Hollywood and attempted to rebuild her career from scratch. Things where starting to look up for Leah when she lands a minor role in an upcoming movie. Unfortunately, she runs into Michael again, only this time he working with a group called Thrillseekers Anonymous who is coordinating the stunts on her movie. It turns out that Michael has dated many of the actresses, including at least one of the stars in the movie, but now Michael only has eyes for Leah. But can Leah find it in her heart to trust Michael again, or will she leave him playing his role as the Extreme Bachelor?

This book is the second a series that began with Wedding Survivor. It has a relatively complex plot full of twists in turns and an interesting sense of humor. One of the things that really worked for me is the way Julia managed to foreshadow events in the future, they hinted at a possible danger, but you don’t know when or where it’s going to strike. All in all, I really enjoyed this story.

Details: Berkley Sensational, May 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

The Penalty Box by Deirdre Martin

Paul van Dorn knew Katie Fisher when she was the overweight nerd in high school, but he missed the chance to see her blossom into a lovely lady at college. Katie is now a respected college professor, who’s taken a year’s sabbatical to write a book. Paul on the other hand lived to play hockey, so when he was offered a chance to play in the pros, he left college to live his dream. Unfortunately, his dream was short-lived, when a series of concussions forced him into early retirement. When Paul saw Katie at their high school reunion, he knew that he wanted her, but can Katie put those high school years behind her and accept Paul into her heart?

I really liked this story. Deirdre has a quirky sense of humor and I found the book to be fast-paced and full of fun. I particularly liked the love triangle and how the characters reacted to each other. The storyline about Katie’s sister was extremely well done; despite the fact that it was a sad it places. I also thought the ending was a little weak, but the rest of the book more than makes up for it. If you’re looking for a fun read and like sports, you should pick up this book.

Details: Berkley Sensation, March 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

My Favorite Witch by Annette Blair

The sequel to The Kitchen Witch, explores the life of Kira Fitzgerald after she’s dumped her cheating fiancé. She meets hockey star, Jason Pickering Goddard, who has been sidelined with an injury. His grandmother cons him into taking over the role of Director of Special Events for the Pickering Foundation where he runs into Kira. Together they capitalize on Jason’s popularity as the winner of the Worlds Best Kisser reality TV show to raise money for an orphanage.

If you were expecting a traditional paranormal book, you’ll be disappointed. Witchcraft doesn’t play a strong part in the story, though it does contribute to some of the humor. The conflict between Kira and Jason seems a little forced at times, while the story line is also a little too predictable. However there are some very funny scenes, a few of which I’m sure I’ll remember for a long time.

Details: Berkley Sensational, January 2006

Bottom line: An good book