Stacy’s Book Reviews

Paperback: 356 Pages
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Thriller
Series: Dirk & Steele: Book 5

“Eye of Heaven”

by Marjorie M. Liu

Book Five: Dirk & Steele Series

“Liu’s screenplay-worthy dialogue, vivid action and gift for the punchy, unexpected metaphor rockets her tale high above the pack. Readers of early Laurell K. Hamilton, Charlaine Harris and the best thrillers out there should try Liu now and catch a rising star.”

—Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

Back Cover Summary:

Dirk & Steele had a creed: Protect the innocent in secrecy. No member of the Agency was “normal”. Each was an outcast, a pariah, a beneficent shadow living under the sun but rarely in its warmth. “Blue” Perrineau was no different. And now, when it was clear that darker shadows existed in the world–people who followed no rule under heaven–every secret was a liability. Blue would soon see.

They came from all over the world to observe Iris’s lithe, catlike body and her affintiy for wild creatures. But beyond the celebrity of the Las Vegas footlghts, a blackness grew. All eyes were upon her, seeking, judging… coveting. But one gaze was that of a savior, a man of electricity and mystery–a mystery as deep and convoluted as her own. And together, they might yet see the dawn.

Excerpt:

“You always like to spy on girls while they sleep?” Iris asked the darkness. The shadow moved and walked toward the pen.

“I’m sorry,” said the man, quiet. “But I was only trying to help. You shouldn’t be here. Not like this.”

“And you’re my protector?” Iris tilted her head. “I can take care of myself.”

She thought he smiled. “I guess that means you’re bulletproof, then. Nice talent to have.”

“Yeah,” she replied, standing. “I’m remarkable that way.”

He was lean, with broad shoulders and narrow hips, garbed in clothers with dark clean lines that looked highly tailored and expensive. Good taste, if nothing else. A man who was primed and ready for a night in a high-end yuppie club, a martini–shaken, not stirred–in his large elegant hand.

Stacy’s Review:

This is the first of Marjorie M. Liu’s books that I have read; and even though I read this “Dirk & Steele” series out of sequence, I didn’t feel as though I missed a thing.

“When Blue, an electrokinetic and a member of the Dirk & Steele detective agency, is sent to Las Vegas to track down his half-brother, he finds himself embroiled in an organ smuggling plot—and protecting a young beauty who is more than she appears.”
–http://www.marjoriemliu.com/books.html

Liu grabbed me in and held my attention from the very first page. I did not want to put this one down until I had read the entire thing. It was that amazing! I love the way she writes: flawless rhythm, wonderful imagery, excitement, intrigue, and terrific dialogue! The action scenes are ‘on-the-edge-of-your-seat’ good. No. They’re outstanding! What a rush! I nearly forgot that I was reading a romance, and let me tell you… Marjorie M. Liu knows how to build the tension in that department as well.

Everything about “Eye of Heaven” was well worth the read, exceptionally entertaining with an original, interesting plot. Her characters come to life on the pages and will stay with you in your memories for some time to come. I have to say that I enjoyed this book immensely, and can’t hardly wait to read the rest in the Dirk & Steele series.

Heck! I want to read every single book that Marjorie M. Liu has written. I really like this author!

Technorati Tags: Paranormal Romantic Thriller, Eye of Heaven, Marjorie M. Liu, Book Five, Dirk & Steele Series, Review

Paperback: 413 Pages
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Malory: Book 5

“Say You Love Me”

by Johanna Lindsey

Book Five: Malory Series

“A very romantic story to sigh over.”
–Heartland Critiques

Side note: I am covering the “Malory” series in proper sequence. To read the reviews for books one (1) through four (4), please click on the links below:
Malory Novel #1 - ‘Love Only Once’
Malory Novel #2 - ‘Tender Rebel’
Malory Novel #3 - ‘Gentle Rogue’
Malory Novel #4 - ‘The Magic of You’

Back Cover Summary:

Left penniless after her parents’ deaths, Kelsey Langton must now take responsibility for the well-being of her younger sister, Jean. But when circumstance and human frailty conspire to leave them homeless as well, Kelsey is forced to resort to drastic measures. Only by allowing herself to be sold at auction can she rescue her sister’s future–and so Kelsey enters the infamous House of Eros, resigned to becoming the plaything of some well-heeled gentleman.

Lord Derek Malory is the highest bidder for Kelsey’s charms–a dashing rakehell from a family of charming London rogues who draws the sensuous dark-haired maiden into a world of unparalleled pleasures and dangerous rivalries. But Kelsey must scrupulously guard the secret of her highborn past–even as her grace, wit, spirit and beauty entice her new “master” to renounce his scandalous ways …and take a chance on ture love, the most perilous and rewarding gamble of all.

Stacy’s Review:

First off, I have to say that, while I thoroughly enjoy every Malory novel, this one had a couple of different elements that I found quite refreshing. The hero and heroine are both gentle souls. Sure, their passion can heat up the pages, but all-in-all this was a sweet, romantic story that had me pleasantly entertained. Each time I write up my own review, I do a bit of research on what other reviewers have had to say. And sadly, in my opinion, I’ve noticed that some people have missed the true magic of this endearing story.

In “Say You Love Me”, Lindsey has given us a chivalrous hero with undeniable gallantry. Derek Malory has a gentle strength, coupled with a protective nature; thoughtful, romantic and caring. I would have liked for Lindsey to give us more of this character’s depth. But, of what she did offer, I would have to say that Derek Malory is definitely worth sighing over. {smile}

The heroine, Kelsey Langton, seemed to be the major focus of this novel, which put the rest of the characters, (including our hero), into the position of set dressing, (in my opinion). And here we have the portion of this story that spoke to me … Kelsey Langton, while naïve, was not foolishly so. She has an incredible inner strength, coupled with a kind-hearted, gentle nature; a sweet, witty, resourceful and intelligent heroine … very likeable indeed.

And now we come to the villain: Lord David Ashton is a sadistic woman-hater. His heart is as black as coal and his deeds against women are horrific. I think it was quite brilliant of Lindsey to throw this wickedly, sick cretin into the midst of such a sweet, romantic tale. It’s a dash of thrills amidst the romance.

Oh, and of course, we have plenty of humor too as Derek calls upon his uncles to assist him–the ever-witty James and Anthony Malory. Ya gotta love those two! If you don’t, then there’s something seriously wrong with your funny bone, mate.

I enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it–especially to fans of Lindsey’s Malory series.

Technorati Tags: Historical Romance, Say You Love Me, Johanna Lindsey, Malory Series, Kelsey Langton, Derek Malory

“Creates Fairy Tales That Come True.”
– Romantic Times

Side note: I am covering the “Malory” series in proper sequence. To read the reviews for books one (1) through three (3), please click on the links below:
Malory Novel #1 - ‘Love Only Once’
Malory Novel #2 - ‘Tender Rebel’
Malory Novel #3 -’Gentle Rogue’

Back Cover Summary:

As wild and reckless as the most incorrigible of her male cousins, Amy Malory has reached a marriageable age and has set her sights on a most inappropriate mate: the straight-laced American ship captain who once nearly had her Uncle James hung for piracy.

Warren Anderson is shocked by the brazen advances of his despised enemy’s beautiful niece. Though determined to resist her; he burns for the enchanting British minx. And an impassioned heart implores him to surrender to a love that could stoke the smoldering fires of a family feud into a dangerous, all consuming blaze.

Stacy’s Review:

Well, it seems that this book has received many mixed reviews. I would venture to guess that this is because the hero and heroine are near complete opposites, with about a twenty year age difference. Some people simply cannot get past that last fact. Personally, I venture into every novel with an open mind. I don’t have any set ideas on how the characters should behave if they were real, living, breathing human beings. Heck folks, this is fiction.

The Magic of You is definitely a “Malory” novel, with all the hilarious, somewhat predictable, yet fun antics of Lindsey’s characters. Amy Malory is quite incorrigible in her blatant pursuit of Warren Anderson. This is a fun twist in which the heroine pursues the hero with a bold, optimistic determination. She’s mischievous, charming, spirited, and blatantly honest. Amy is a gal who knows what she wants and makes no bones about going for it; an admirable trait, in my opinion. Besides, Amy has a special talent for matchmaking, and putting that gift to personal use doesn’t fail her here. One of the few Malory’s blessed with the rumored gypsy blood, Amy is a raving beauty on the outside, coupled with a delightful, compassionate minx on the inside. She’s one of my favorite heroines in the Malory series.

Warren is an unhappy, brooding grouch. The events of his past, (of course), have soured him on any notions of love or romance. Some have stated that his nature was a bit over-the-top, but I disagree. I believe that it was in perfect accord with how his life had unfolded thus far. Warren Anderson has substance. He is a caring, compassionate, intelligent, strong-willed, man with plenty of warmth locked up in his tarnished heart. All he needed, he found in Amy Malory.

This is a fun, fast-paced, adventure-filled romance. And quite to my delight, Lindsey has tossed in plenty of Anthony & James Malory’s entertaining banter as well. A thoroughly enjoyable read!

“Experience the storytelling magic that makes each and every Johanna Lindsey novel impossible to put down.”

Back Cover Summary:

The most desirable beauty in the land, wildly unpredictable Megan Penworthy has set her amorous sights on Ambrose St. James, Duke of Wrothston – a man she has never met but has every intention of marrying. No other suitor will satisfy her – especially not the common, if uncommonly handsome, horse breeder, Devlin Jefferys.

Posing as lowborn Jefferys to escape a potentially fatal confrontation, Ambrose is enthralled and infuriated by the brazen, duke-hunting redhead. Without revealing his true identity, the notorious rogue vows to foil Megan’s plans to wed the man of her dreams – never imagining the enchanting schemer would turn out to be the only woman he would ever dream of marrying.

Stacy’s Review:

“Man of My Dreams” was a fun read. The formula was fairly predictable, but none-the-less entertaining. It was a ‘push me – pull you’ kind of romance. You know, where the hero and heroine have a strong physical attraction right from the ‘get-go’, but they find that antagonizing each other is a much more rewarding sport than a roll in the hay. Well, at least that’s the case through about half of the book.

There are quite a few chuckles to be gained within the pages of this book. The characters are definitely memorable, and fun. The sexual tension, which leads into sizzling chemistry between the characters, grabs you with a few Wow! moments. Grab a glass of ice water and enjoy! Also, this book introduces the outrageous character of a Scotsman by the name of Lachlan MacGregor. His story is continued in ‘book two’ of the ‘Sherring Cross’ series, and another must read for Lindsey fans.

Overall … A frolicking good read!

“Sheer delight … As always, Ms. Lindsey gives us what we want – A memorable, wonderful read that brings us laughter and joy.”
– Romantic Times

Back Cover Summary:

Still mourning her mother’s death, Kimberly Richards is incensed by the determination of her father, the Earl of Amburough, to marry her off as quickly as possible – just to please the jealous lover he plans to wed. And since Kimberly harbors a deep-seated dislike of gold-diggers and the whole distasteful state of affairs, the feisty young heiress already despises the “worthy suitor” she encounters at Sherring Cross Estate: Lachlan MacGregor, the dashing, newly impoverished Laird of Clan MacGregor.

A tryst with the handsome, haughty Lachlan seems dubious at best – especially since the rogue has designs on the married Duchess of Wrothston. But strange turns and outrageous circumstances promise to lead a woefully mismatched pair to a wildly unexpected destination – where a hard, resisting heart can open to the true glories of love.

Stacy’s Review:

“Love Me Forever” was a memorable read, filled with sexy, fun, endearing characters. There were plenty of twists and turns, outrageous behavior, guffaw wrenching humor and just plain ol’ fun!

The heroine in this story was not … (did you catch that?) … not a raving beauty. She was an average looking gal that radiated an inner beauty. She did, however, have a smile that garnered attention, and enhanced her outer appearance. The hero, Lachlan MacGregor, was a hoot! Ya gotta love this guy!

Once again Johanna Lindsey has created characters that come to life! Lots of fun! An awesome read!

“She manages to etch memorable characters in every novel she writes.”
– Chicago Sun-Times

Back Cover Summary:

What was to be a grand adventure for Melissa MacGregor – an escape from the wilds of her Scottish home into the whirl of the London social scene – seems to pale before the promise in the passionate gaze of Lincoln Ross Burnett. Though they exchange but a few words before parting after a chance encounter on her grandfather’s lands, Melissa instantly knows this bold stranger is her destiny, while Lincoln realizes his heart has been claimed forever and he will never be complete until Melissa MacGregor is his bride.

But there are serious obstacles impeding the well-smitten Viscount Cambury’s pursuit of glorious romance: sixteen of them – all big and brawny, six named Ian and all named MacFearson. The bane of Lincoln’s youth, Melissa’s stifling, disapproving; uncles are now determined to rob him of his newfound happiness. Yet he is equally resolved to confront the peril – and to pursue his exquisite obsession all the way to London … and to the ends of the earth, if necessary.

Stacy’s Review:

“The Pursuit” left me with a nice, warm feeling. Like hot cocoa on a rainy day, it just felt good. This was a switch from Lindsey’s usual writing style, or least from what I’ve read in her novels thus far. In this novel, the hero and heroine actually make a connection from the moment they meet. They talk with one another in an open, direct and honest manner. It seems as if there is nothing to keep them from being together. Nothing, except for Melissa MacGregor’s sixteen uncles, who, it seems, have a good reason for wanting to keep the happy couple apart.

Lincoln Ross Burnett, (the hero), is a rather determined chap. His is a tormented past, that haunts his chances of having a future with the woman he wishes to make his bride. Having learned from his past mistakes, he now meets obstacles with an inner calm and admirable grace. Through him we maintain optimism while fighting adversity. We learn to never give up on what is important in life.

Johanna Lindsey throws in dashes of her usual humor, which is always fun. The banter between Lincoln and Melissa’s uncles is a chuckle a minute. Lindsey always brings her characters to life, and this story is no different. It’s an endearing tale of love, romance, adversity, forgiveness and the importance of family ties.

“Experience the storytelling magic that makes each and every Johanna Lindsey novel impossible to put down.”

Back Cover Summary:

They didn’t mean to fall in love …

Sharisse Hammond had no intention of giving herself to some rancher who had sent for a mail-order bride! She had gone West only to escape the New York society marriage her father was arranging.

Lucas Holt’s intentions were also less than honest. But their plans to use each other were soon complicated by unspoken desire. He never expected her to be so stunningly beautiful. And she never expected to want any man so much.

While Lucas forced Sharisse to play in a dangerous game of revenge against the man who killed his father, she forced him to feel passions he could no longer control. Yet when her family asked her to return to New York, Lucas couldn’t find the words to ask her to stay.

Only when their stubborn hearts felt the pain of loss and separation did they come to know how completely they loved each other. And despite the distance and time – and misunderstanding – between them, somehow they had to be together …

Stacy’s Review:

Rather than stare numbly off into space as I waited for my next Yard Sale customer this weekend; I picked up another entertaining Lindsey novel. I read “Tender Is The Storm” while braving the cold October day, and you know what? This book was such an engrossing read, that I barely noticed it when my toes went numb from the chilly air.

I don’t want to give any spoilers away here, so I’ll have to keep this review short. I will say this though … the heroine was never kidnapped, nor did she fall deathly ill in order for the hero to finally realize that he truly loved her. Can you believe that!?! (grin) Go figure. I thought that I had finally got Johanna Lindsey novels down pat and she goes and changes the rules on me. The nerve! (chuckle)

The setting is placed in Arizona and New York back in the 1800’s. There were a couple of surprises contained within the pages. The main characters were likeable and real, nothing larger than life. The hero, (Lucas Holt), had a heart-wrenching past which shadowed his feelings of the future. The heroine, (Sharisse Hammond), was completely likeable, just enough of variety to her personality to make her believable. I didn’t find myself hollering at the pages this time, as the heroine didn’t do anything too incredibly frustrating. Lindsey’s usual sarcastic wit wasn’t really present in this book. But, there was a fun scene between the heroine and another gal where they traded some heavy-hitting barbs. Plus, there was a variety of humor thrown in here and there.

Overall, it was a good read.

“The phenomenal author of several national bestsellers continues the amorous exploits of the Malorys, in this tantalizing tale of passion, conflict, and surrender.”

Back Cover Summary:

Her heart trampled and torn, innocent Georgina Anderson was desperate to return home to America. Leaving her sorrows on England’s shores, she defiantly boarded the “gentleman’s ship” Maiden Anne disguised as a cabin boy – never dreaming she’d be forced into intimate servitude to the irrepressible rake Captain James Malory.

A handsome ex-pirate, the black sheep of a proud and tempestuous family, Malory swore no woman alive would entice him into matrimony. But on the high seas, he would be bested by a high-spirited beauty whose love of freedom and adventure rivaled his own … and by an inescapable tidal wave of passion that threatened to engulf them both.

Stacy’s Review:

Oh, what a deliciously fun read! “Gentle Rogue” is a veritable delight! I loved this book! Johanna Lindsey created an amazingly fun heroine for James Malory to fall in love with. Georgina Anderson is an endearingly fun character. Her exploits are downright hilarious! And James … there’s not enough words in the English language to describe how much fun this character is! He is a devilishly, irresistible, hunk of a man; built like a “brick wall”. (grin) He’s a man’s, man … a woman’s dream … a gentleman-pirate, and a dashing rogue.

The introduction of Georgina’s brothers is a regular laugh riot! I nearly had to buckle over and gasp for breath I was laughing so hard. Honestly, romance, adventure, ridiculously funny exploits, witty banter, love scenes that’ll fog up your spectacles, and characters that will touch your heart forever! All this wrapped up with perfection by the talented, Johanna Lindsey.

This book took me about 5 hours to read. And I can guarantee you, if you’re a Lindsey fan; you won’t want to put this one down until you’ve consumed all 426 pages. “Gentle Rogue” is by far, the most guffaw wrenching book in the series! It’s a bloody good read, mate.

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Johanna Lindsey sweeps readers into the privileged world of English aristocrats, as she presents a new novel of passion, intrigue, and romantic pleasures featuring the incomparable Malorys — a family of dashing rogues, rakehell adventurers, and beautiful ladies of incomparable spirit. Johanna Lindsey is a master storyteller who spins romantic fiction like no other.”

Back Cover Summary:

Scottish beauty Roslynn Chadwick needs the safety of marriage to protect her from an unscrupulous cousin and the fortune-hunting scoundrels who covet her wealth. And Anthony Malory is precisely the sort of handsome rogue she’s been warned against.

A cunning, ruthless, yet irresistible rake, Anthony’s sensual blue eyes speak of pleasures beyond her imagining – and Roslynn dearly wishes she dared to surrender to such a man. Believing his passionate promises will surely lead to disaster. But denying her heart may cost the exquisite Highlands lasy an unparalleled love hotter than flame and more precious than the rarest jewel.

Stacy’s Review:

“Tender Rebel” is an entertaining blend of romance, intrigue, adventure and humor. It’s another awesome ‘Malory’ novel, to be sure. The outlandish antics, incorrigible charm, and sardonic wit of James & Anthony Malory are back within the pages of this second book in the series. I recommend you pick up and read this book based on that fact alone. Ya gotta love ‘em!

Roslynn Chadwick was a thoroughly enjoyable character through most of the book. She’s determined, spunky, intelligent, beautiful, (of course) and a red-head to boot! Being a red-head myself, I’m no stranger to the ever popular, (grossly misused), assumption that our kind is overtly stubborn, and prone to sudden outbursts of anger. Eh, well … so maybe that assumption is accurate, but just the same …

Towards the end of “Tender Rebel” I was ready to throttle this heroine! She took obstinance beyond a reasonable level of acceptance. I found myself hollering at the pages, “Catch a clue, you ninny!” Oh which, to my delight, she finally did.

Overall, I enjoyed this book thoroughly and would recommend it to any and all Malory fans. Anthony is a delectable hero!

Back Cover Summary:

Her life changed forever the night she was abducted from a dark London street and carried to a stranger’s townhouse. At first Regina Ashton was amused, then outraged at the arrogance of this bronzed, golden-curled seducer who so deftly taught her a woman’s passion … and a woman’s shame. Though he had dragged her good name through the mud, Reggie knew she would never be able to forget Nicholas Eden.

Nicholas was intrigued by this fiery, black-haired beauty who stirred his desires in way that no woman had before. But a painful secret from his past hardened his heart against Reggie completely — while Reggie’s pride reined back her own deep longings.

Fate and scandal had thrown them together. But it would take more than that to make them admit their needs. It was not until tragic misunderstandings and storm-tossed dangers almost destroyed everything they once shared, that they realized their blazing destiny … to love only once.

Stacy’s Review:

First of all, I have to say that the “Malory Novels” are a blast! A regular laugh riot at times. Anthony and James Malory are a hoot! No, I’m not poking fun at romance novels here, I’m being quite serious. Johanna Lindsey knows humor and her Malory Novels are packed with sardonic wit and clever humor. I’ve read all seven (7) in this series (as well as her other works). It’s worse than opening up a bag of Lays and not being able to stop at just one. With the Malory series, you are so thoroughly enthralled that you quite simply devour the pages with rapid speed, unable to set the book down until the very last page has been consumed. (Ahem!) Well, uh … that’s what happens to me anyhow. (grin) And I’m not ashamed to admit it.

Seriously, folks. Before Lindsey, you wouldn’t catch me picking up a Romance novel. I tried one once, when I was about 16, and found it utterly lacking in any form of entertainment. Pages and pages of mind numbing descriptions with little story content. Ugh. How tedious. Lindsey, on the other hand, doesn’t waste the reader’s intellect with useless descriptions. The romance scenes between her characters sizzle with electrifying chemistry. Her novels are full of humor, romance, intrigue, crazy plot twists, and teriffic, fun, interesting, completely-endearing characters. Honestly, these are people you’d absolutely love to meet! (sigh) If only they were real.

“Love Only Once” is delicious fun. Regina Ashton, known as Reggie by her Uncle Anthony and Regan by her Uncle James, (mainly because James knows it aggravates his brother to no end to call her Regan.), is a beautiful (of course), confident, and spunky heroine. Being abducted is a bit of a ho-hum experience for her, no reason to worry, it’s just another one of those kind of days. (chuckle) She’s a gal that knows what she wants and goes for it, with no thought of failure. She’s optimistic, bold, has a clever, curious mind, and always faces life’s challanges directly. Regina Ashton makes her first appearance in this novel, but, being such a fun character … this is definitely not the last you will see of her. Nor of Nicholas Eden, her love interest in this story, and her hero. Nicholas gives back as much aggravation, (teasing torment) as James and Anthony dish his way. The banter between these three men had me chuckling outloud and uttering such things as, “Oh no, he didn’t!” My husband tends to shake his head and roll his eyes at me when I’m reading a Lindsey novel. (grin)

Anyhow, Regina Ashton and Nicholas Eden’s love story is a definite must-read. An awesome beginning in the Mallory Series.