After Math (Off the Subject #1) by Denise Grover Swank

Before she agreed to tutor Tucker price, college junior Scarlett was introvert, struggling with her social anxiety and determined to not end up living in a trailer park like her mother and her younger sister. A mathematics major, she goes to her classes, to her job in the tutoring lab, and then hides in the apartment she shares with her friend, Caroline.

After junior Tucker Price, Southern University’s star soccer player enters the equation, her carefully plotted life is thrown off its axis. Tucker’s failing his required College Algebra class. With his eligibility is at risk, the university chancellor dangles an expensive piece of computer software for the math department if Scarlett agrees to privately tutor him.Tucker’s bad boy, womanizer reputation makes Scarlett wary of any contact, let alone spending several hours a week in close proximity.

But from her first encounter, she realizes Tucker isn’t the person everyone else sees. He carries a mountain of secrets which she suspects hold the reason to his self-destructive behavior. But the deeper she delves into the cause of his pain, the deeper she gets sucked into his chaos. Will Scarlett find the happiness she’s looking for, or will she be caught in Tucker’s aftermath?

I'm very excited about this book !!!!!! When I first started reading this book I thought it might be YA but then I got to a sex scene and changed my mind. This is not your normal romance book it has a young love kind of feel to it. This was the first time for me to read any of Denise Grover Swank books but this won't be the last. The book is in first person of Scarlett a college math student that has a high social anxiety disorder. Scarlett is almost forced into tutoring Tucker Price the man whore of Southern University. Tucker at first raises Scarlett's anxiety but it's not long until that changes. Scarlett gets a glimpse of a very different Tucker then what he shows everyone else. She sees the sadness he hides from everyone else. It's not long and you can almost see the bond between them jumping off the pages. After Math had a different feel to it I think because of the setting and ages of the characters. Tucker is so sweet to Scarlett he knows what sets off her anxiety and does what he can to help her. The love scenes were sweet and gentle, really perfect for the feel of the book. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. A bad boy that is so much more than he shows the world how can you resist !

Never Seduce a Scot (The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #1) by Maya Banks

Eveline Armstrong is fiercely loved and protected by her powerful clan, but outsiders consider her “touched.” Beautiful, fey, with a level, intent gaze, she doesn’t speak. No one, not even her family, knows that she cannot hear. Content with her life of seclusion, Eveline has taught herself to read lips and allows the outside world to view her as daft. But when an arranged marriage into a rival clan makes Graeme Montgomery her husband, Eveline accepts her duty—unprepared for the delights to come. Graeme is a rugged warrior with a voice so deep and powerful that his new bride can hear it, and hands and kisses so tender and skilled that he stirs her deepest passions.

Graeme is intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.

I wanted to cry within the first few chapters of reading the book. I believe that Eveline has the sweetest family I may have ever read before. The Mongomerys and Armstrongs have fought against each other for decades so long that no one even knows how it started. Graeme is forced by the King to marry Eveline hoping this will bring peace to the two strongest clans in the Kingdom. Eveline is scared for she has always believed that Graeme was a monster that would abuse her. When she sees him that changes for she was a feeling that he will be kind to her. Graeme has heard what they say about Eveline but begins to doubt what is said shortly after meeting her. Graemes clan is not nice to Eveline at all but she keeps trying to prove her worth to them. There were times I wanted to jump in the book and beat some of the women of the clan for the horrible things they did to her. She trust them and they abuse that trust and hurt her. Graeme tries to understand his clans concerns but the finally straw comes and he stands up to his clan. I think if I could fall in love with a character it happened then. I loved this book. I also liked that when a old emeny from Evelines past tries to set the clans against each other they both stop and think before charging into a war that will kill both clans. This is just a great book that I can see myself rereading in the future. One of the best books I've read.

Masters at Arms (Rescue Me #1) by Kallypso Masters

Masters at Arms begins the journey of three men, each on a quest for honor, acceptance, and to ease his unspoken pain. Their paths cross at one of the darkest points in their lives. As they try to come to terms with the aftermath--forging an unbreakable bond--will they ever truly become masters of their own fates? Or would fate become masters of them?

(Book One in the Rescue Me series about the men who own the Masters at Arms BDSM Club)

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is an introduction to the series, but does NOT have the Happily Ever After endings that will come in the next three romance novels in the series. Being the back-story that usually is not told in "real time," there are some intense themes in the book, including death of a spouse, incest, torture, a battle scene, and amputation.

This is another lovely lady I meet last month. This is a prequel to the series in which you meet Adam, Damian, Marc, Karla, and Savannah for the first time. I liked getting to read the back story because it's not something you get often when reading. Adam had me wanting to read more about Karla and him from the beginning. Adam is older than the normal men you read about but he was no less strong and sexy. Damian and Savannah are so sweet together you just can't wait to read more of their story. Adam, Damian, and Marc meet in the war and forge a bond nothing can break. This book is a must to read if you want to read the rest of the series because it sets up everything else to come and it's FREE on Amazon.

Relentless Seduction by Jillian Burns

When her best friend disappears during Mardi Gras, microbiologist Claire Brookes is determined to find her. Her only lead is a bar called Once Bitten—a haven for the dark, melancholy and vampire-obsessed. And while Claire generally prefers science nerds over the Gothy children of New Orleans, something about the bar’s tall, dark and delish bartender makes her mouth water….

Bar owner Rafe Moreau is pretty sure that there’s more to Claire than uptightness and frumpy clothes. And as they delve further into the dark, seedy underworld of the Big Easy, Claire and Rafe turn to each other, discovering a sizzling hunger that won’t be satisfied.

But will one taste be enough?

Bein’ bad in the Big Easy...

Jillian Burns was a joy to meet and very nice lady. This is another author I've never read before but so glad I found. Claire is not the kind of woman you get used to reading about in romance books, she is shy and nerdy dressed in baggy clothes but under is a beauty that Rafe has no problem seeing. Rafe tries his best not to be pulled into Clarie's trouble but he can't help but be her knight coming to her rescue. Claire just wants to find her friend and won't stop until she does. Rafe is street tough but likes the way Claire makes him feel. The emotion between Rafe and Claire was so strong it jumped from the pages. I was worried a couple times that about them getting their HEA but they did. This book keeps you on edge wondering what has happened to Julia (Claire's friend). I didn't want to put the book down between the mystery and the chemistry the book has it all. If you like some mystery with your romance than you have to get this book. Mystery, romance and steamy love scenes what more could you ask for.....

Texas Haven (Dawson Ranch) by Kathleen Ball

Everything in Annie Douglas' life has taught her that men can’t be trusted. Although Burke is big, strong, and not seemingly gentle, Annie feels drawn to the handsome Texas cowboy. Upon discovering Burke’s advertisement for a wife, Annie shyly asks if he might consider her. Burke Dawson wants children; unfortunately, that also includes a wife. His first wife was a citified hellcat who stole half of his ranch. Now Burke’s determined to find an honest country girl with no expectations of love. Misunderstandings, accidents, and treachery leads to Annie leaving shattered and alone. Can their shaking start lead to the possible loving relationship they both desire but neither is sure of?

Kathleen Ball was another lovely lady I got to meet and being from Texas I do love a good Cowboy romance. First time to read any of her books and boy am I glad I picked up her book. This book was full of emotion. I couldn't help but to feel bad for poor Annie that just wanted some love and affection. I couldn't image living a life without either but that is what she survives. Annie makes it impossible for you not to root for her. Burke is a good ole cowboy that is Texas tough and caring. He's been hurt but tries to be soft with Annie. Burke and Annie were a joy to read about and I didn't want to stop. When Annie cries you feel close to tears yourself. I wanted to hit Burke upside his head at times. Most books I would be yelling at the book when a main character was so blind to what was right in front of his face but something about Burke kept me from doing that. After many ups and down Burke finally sees the light and gets his act together. I loved reading how Annie went for shy and bullied to strong. Also adored reading her take in so many strays and help anyone she could. I have to say Cowboy romance isn't something I read alot of but I'll have to change that after reading this book. Texas Haven isn't a very long book it's under two hundred pages but that doesn't affect the book at all. This was a great start to a series and can't wait to get my hands on the next book.

Highland Healer (Highland Talents #1) by Willa Blair

He needs her for his clan.
He wants her for himself.
Can he have both?

Toran Lathan never expected to become Laird, and never expected to meet a woman like Aileanna Shaw. Her healing ability is just what his people need, but Toran cannot resist her beauty. Yet will loving him destroy her ability to heal?

Aileanna Shaw has a healing touch - and a special talent she must keep secret. Stolen from her home by a marauding army, she's kidnapped again by the Highland Laird she heals. Is she a prize of war, or the prize of his heart?

While Toran battles the invading lowland army, he also battles his desire for Aileanna. And Aileanna must decide if she can trust her secrets to this fierce warrior who needs her talent, but wants her love.

I had the pleasure to meet Willa Blair several weeks ago. Willa Blair is one of many authors I got to meet that I will be reading and reviewing. Aileanna Shaw is a healer forced for the pasted two years to follow Colbridge. Toran Lathan is taken to her tent to be healed after being captured in a battle. When a chance to escape comes Toran takes Aileanna to his Aerie in the mountain's. Aileanna has a hard time trusting what Toran says after being around Colbridge for so long. I really liked this book and can't wait to read more in the series. Toran was the kind of alpha male any woman loves to read about. He was strong and tough but caring with his people and Aileanna. Aileanna had me almost in tears at one very emotional part in the book. If you like historical books or Highlander books then you will love this book. Highland Healer was a great start to what I'm sure is going to be a brilliant series.

No Place to Run (KGI #2) by Maya Banks

The last person Sam Kelly expected to save was Sophie Lundgren. Once they shared a brief, intense affair while Sam was undercover and then she vanished. She's spent the last few months on the run, knowing that any mistake would cost her both her life and that of their unborn child. Now she's resurfaced with a warning for Sam: this time, he's the one in danger.

This was another great book in the KGI series. I haven't read many Maya Banks books but after enjoying the book in this series I will have to get more of her books. I loved Sam in the first book and was excited to read more about him and the Kelly family. Sam and his brothers are the alpha males I love to read about very take charge and protective. Sophie was sweet but a bit of a mystery for Sam and the other Kelly brothers to figure out before the danger stalking her springs it's trap. There is so much going on in this book danger following Sophie, Sam finding out he's going to be a father as he protects Sophie, dealing with the attraction sizzling between them and a potential family crisis. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone that loves a hot alpha male that will do anything to protect his family !!

Texas Bride: A Bitter Creek Novel (Mail-Order Brides #1) by Joan Johnston

Miranda Wentworth never imagined becoming a mail-order bride. Now marriage to a stranger is her only hope of finding a home where she and her two younger brothers can escape the brutality of the Chicago orphanage where they live. With any luck, she can even start a family of her own, once the three of them are settled at Jacob Creed’s Texas ranch. But Miranda has one gigantic concern: Her husband-to-be knows nothing about the brothers she’s bringing along. What if he calls off the deal when he discovers the trick she’s played on him?



Jake Creed is hanging on to his Texas ranch by his fingernails. His nemesis, Alexander Blackthorne, is determined to ruin him. Jake will never give up, but he’s in desperate trouble. His wife died six months ago in childbirth, along with their stillborn son, and his two-year-old daughter needs a mother. The advertisement Jake wrote never mentioned his daughter—or the fact that he has no intention of consummating his marriage. He’s determined never to subject another wife to the burden of pregnancy. But Jake doesn’t count on finding his bride so desirable. He doesn’t count on aching with need when she joins him in bed. And he never suspected his bride would have plans of her own to seduce him.

I love reading historical romances and Joan Johnston knows how to write them. This is the beginning to a new series. The series is about the Wentworth siblings and opens with them trying to figure out a way to get out of the evil orphanage they are placed in. When Josie (Miranda's youngest sister) comes up with a plan. Jake and Miranda are two characters you feel sorry for but for very different reasons. Miranda is a shy young lady and I enjoyed reading as she grow strong. Jake is scared to love after the death of his wife but soon can't help wanting the shy beauty. Jakes little girl Anna Mae is a doll and you love her for the start and so is Miranda's youngest brother Harry. Nick (Miranda's oldest brother) is sweet even if he was a chip on his shoulder when it comes to Jake. Alexander Blackthorne (Jake's step-father) I liked at first and hoped by the end of the book that Jake and Alexander would come to at least like each other. I soon found out why Jake hated Alexander and I came to feel the same way. If I say why it would be a spoiler so I will just say it's a big shock and changed how I saw Alexander. This twist is a good one but by the end of the book it's still a secret and I didn't like that. I don't like unfinsihed plot lines and that's what this is and I don't see it coming up later in the series. This is my only problem with the book. The journey from strangers to family is a joy to read. If you like historical romances then this is a great book to read.

The Darkest Hour (KGI #1) by Maya Banks

The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super elite, top secret, family-run business.
Qualifications: High intelligence, rock hard body, military background.
Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the US government can’t…

It’s been one year since ex-Navy SEAL Ethan Kelly last saw his wife Rachel alive. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt over his failures as a husband, Ethan shuts himself off from everything and everyone.

His brothers have tried to bring Ethan into the KGI fold, tried to break through the barriers he’s built around himself, but Ethan refuses to respond… until he receives anonymous information claiming Rachel is alive.

To save her, Ethan will have to dodge bullets, cross a jungle, and risk falling captive to a deadly drug cartel that threatens his own demise. And even if he succeeds, he’ll have to force Rachel to recover memories she can’t and doesn’t want to relive—the minute by minute terror of her darkest hour—for their love, and their lives, may depend on it.

 I can't say enough how much I LOVED this book !!!! I started reading this book when I should have been resting for work the next day. I only got three hours of sleep cause I couldn't put this book down. I love so much about this book from Ethan and his brothers to the sub plot with his parents and a teenage girl. Rachel is the kind of character I had wanted to read about in a book a woman that was broken and scared out of her mind but gets stronger as the book develops along. Rachel tugs at your heart strings and your cheering for her as she gets stronger. Ethan is a good man that's devastated when he finds out what his wife went through. Plus you have the mystery of why Rachel's death was faked and the new member of the family cause's some waves without meaning to. I liked at the end of the book Rachel wasn't good as new she was much better than she started but she still had a long way to go. It was a pleasure to read about Ethan and Rachel's journey and a great beginning to a series. If you like when a man and his family fight for one of there own then this is your book, promise you won't be sorry for giving it a chance.

3 Brides For 3 Bad Boys by Lucy Monroe

Rand
After tragedy struck six years ago, Rand buried what was left of his heart. But Phoebe Garrison refuses to give up on him. When nothing else gets the brooding hunk to open up, she blackmails him, offering him the coveted deed to property his company needs--if he agrees to spend a week in her bed.
Colton
Waking up in Vegas next to a naked showgirl named Fayre after a red-hot night of passion puts a smile on Colton Denning's face--until he discovers that Fayre is his new wife. What can stable, workaholic Colton possibly say to this unpredictable force of nature, a woman who expects him to love, honor, and cherish the vows he took, drunk, in a Vegas chapel?
Carter
As marriage proposals go, Carter's offer to Daisy Jackson lacks romance: Marry me and I'll give you a half million dollars. Four years ago, Carter let Daisy go for her own sake. Now, he needs a wife to fulfill the requirements of his father's lucrative will, and this could be his chance to make amends with Daisy.

Lucy Monroe did a excellent job of connecting these stories. It's not often that three short stories relate to each other but this is one of the rare times it does. Every character is well developed and very likable. I can't say much more without giving anything away and since I don't do spoilers. I'll just say that if you like to read about men that won't take no for a answer when it comes to his woman than you'll love this book.