Winners of Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory

*Cecile
elaing8
*debbie
*Karen Gerrard
*s7anna

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to our winners and I hope you enjoy your prize!

Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory (Terra's Review)

HOW CAN THIS PASSIONATE KNIGHT...
Renowned beauty Lady Linnet is torn between two desires: revenge on those who destroyed her family or marriage to her childhood sweetheart Sir James Rayburn. One fateful night, she makes a misguided choice: she sacrifices Jamie's love for a chance at vengeance.

TRUST A BEAUTY WITH A PAST?
Jamie Rayburn returns to England in search of a virtuous wife-only to find the lovely Linnet as bewitching as ever. Their reckless affair ignites anew, even hotter than before, although Jamie vows to never again trust her with his heart. Then just as Linnet begins to make amends, she's tempted by one last opportunity to settle old scores. But a final retribution could cost her Jamie's love - this time forever.

(Terra's Thoughts) The author has given us a wonderfully delicious third installment of All The King's Men and one you won't soon forget. Lots of love, passion, deceit and watch out for the tip of the sword action to have everyone enjoy.

Lady Linnet is a prize alright. She is quite beautiful but doesn't have an ounce of common sense but does carry a conviction for payback for past hurts that gets her in more trouble than even someone with back luck would admire.

Jamie Rayburn has been trying so hard for years to get Linnet out of his system when all of a sudden she is smack dab in his face making his own personal flag stand at full attention whenever she's around. So much for forgetting and getting on with your life. Oh and if that's not bad enough, Linnet knows just what buttons to push to really trigger Jamie's unbridled fury. The thousand dollar question though is can he keep from killing her before his passions get the best of him? Which tip of sword do you think she will taste first?

This is a quick fluffy read that I truely did enjoy and really hope to see more from Margaret Mallory in the future. This author has a knack for testing one's patience all in the name of love. Way to go Margaret!

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Forever (June 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446559865
ISBN-13: 978-0446559867

Born to Bite by Lynsay Sands (Terra's Review)

Eshe d’Aureus is sent to Armand Argeneau under the auspice that she needs a safe place to hide from a rogue out for revenge, but Eshe is really on the job. She's been saddled with the task of finding out why Armand's wives keep dying, and what it has to do with his son Nicholas and the murder Nicholas is accused of committing 50 years ago. She's Nicholas's only hope of avoiding being executed for a murder he may or may not have committed. Eshe's agreed to take on the task, but that was before she realized she couldn't read Armand and he is the life mate she's been waiting for.

Armand Argeneau’s first sight of Eshe was her roaring up on a motorcycle that appeared to be aflame. That was inconspicuous?! She had the grace of a panther, the attitude of a pit bull and openly enjoyed thwarting Lucian’s orders whenever possible . . . all of which delighted him immensely . . . until he realized he couldn't read the woman and she might be a life mate. Having already lost a life mate and two wives to suspicious circumstances, Armand isn't willing to risk losing another. Unfortunately, sending her away was pretty difficult when he couldn't keep his thoughts, not to mention his hands, off her. It seems it's time to once again try to get to the bottom of the deaths of his first three wives. While Armand's tried before, he's also failed, but this time he could lose his son as well as his life mate.

(Terra's Thoughts) Have I ever told you how much I really love Lynsay's books? No. Well let's just say that I have read every single book she has written to date so does that give you some indication!

This installment of the Argeneau Family Saga is right up there with the best of the best. Lynsay starts out with sparks flying between Armand and Eshe that could incinerate an atomic bomb. Whew..........! Let's just say the hot and steaminess of the beginning chapters will have you running for a cold shower. YUMM!

It's not long before we get down to business though and the storyline really picks up speed and continues right to the end at a fantastic pace. This is a solid storyline that will make you think you are an innocent bystander watching all this as it actually happens. This is what you get from an author who most certainly knows her stuff.

Eshe and Armand are sooooooooo made for each other. I want my own life mate please that will curl my toes and sizzle the tips of my hair. With all that our hero and heroine go through and the way the story makes you think, it will keep you guessing let me tell you. I had part of the puzzle solved early on but questioned myself right up to the end and Lynsay threw just the right size monkey wrench into the story to keep me off track and questioning.

If you are an Argeneau Lover then don't miss out on this book. You snooze you loose as the saying goes and this is a 5 star worth every page.

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (August 31, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061474320
ISBN-13: 978-0061474323

The Dark Rose by Cynthia Harrod Eagles (Terra's Review)

In Cynthia Harrod-Eagles's worldwide bestsellers, the majestic sweep of English history is richly and movingly portrayed through the fictional lives of the Morland family.

It is 1501, and Paul, great-grandson of Eleanor Morland, has inherited the estate and has a son to follow him. But he fathers an illegitimate boy by his beloved mistress, and bitter jealously between the half-brothers causes a destructive rift that threatens to destroy them all.

Paul's niece Nanette has her own passions, and becomes maid-in-waiting to Anne Boleyn. At the court of Henry VIII, she witnesses firsthand the events leading up to the rift with Rome, her mistress's execution, and the further efforts of the sad, ailing king to secure the male succession. And through all the turmoil of Henry VIII's reign-from drought to floods, from religious reform to court intrigue-the Morlands find new ways to come together while the world seems intent on tearing them apart.

(Terra's Thoughts) This is an amazing story of Henry Tudor aka. King Henry VIII with so much realism that you cannot help immerse yourself in the story right up to your pretty little eyes. Considering this is a work of fiction it has more than it's share of fact to give you a wonderful lesson into the life of royalty in England during the Tudor dynasty.

The focus of the story is not on the King so much himself but on the Morland's who were not the richest most powerful family but one of privilege and money in their own right. The main focus is on Lady Anne (Nanette) Morland as she goes from childhood through adulthood and all of the different aspects of this powerful period that affect her life in ever so many ways.

I honestly wish I had read the first book in the series before this one but will most certainly acquire it and read it later. You need not read the first one to read this one as this is in it's own right a book that can stand alone with the amount of detail throughout King Henry VIII's reign.

The author has given us a wonderfully rich story full of love and devotion, hate and conflict, pride and prejudicism that are vividly detailed to ensnare you right from the beginning and keep you hooked all the way to the very end. A story based on fact that is embellished just beautifully to not only give you a much needed lesson in history but to capture your emotions and wring them out like a wet rag. You will need a few tissues during this story as you cannot help yourself from becoming emotionally involved with the complex lives that are presented so artistically. It's like watching the best movie of your life especially if you are someone who gets more from the descriptive than the visual. This is a series not to be missed.

Paperback: 592 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (July 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402238169
ISBN-13: 978-1402238161

To Conquer a Highlander by Mary Wine (Terra's Review)

In the Warrior's Bed fills this addictive tale of betrayal, lust, power, and love with detail-rich descriptions and frequent bedroom scenes hot enough to warm even the coldest Scottish nights. In 15th-century Scotland, women are expected to be quiet, meek, and above all obedient, but hot-blooded, hotheaded Shannon McBoyd is not a typical simpering lady. She meets her match in the dark, handsome highlander Torin McLeren, who kidnaps her to stop her father's raids into McLeren land. While Scotland roils in political upheaval, Shannon struggles to accept passion and a future with Torin, never losing her independent spirit and courage even as she succumbs to her feelings. Wine skillfully creates suspense, keeping Shannon's fate uncertain until the very end. With a captivating leading lady and terrific pacing, this story will be devoured by devoted historical romance readers.

(Terra's Thoughts) This was such a delicious story with bantering back and forth between Shannon and Torin. The sexual appeal to each other sent sparks flying out in all directions and you just couldn't wait til the two of them got going.

A tough storyline with that of one Clan trying to wipe out another and the struggles that ensue due to the pain both physically and emotionally. Torin is within his rights as Laird of the McLeren Clan to not only lash out at the neighboring McBoyd Clan but he is justified in bringing all of what is going on to the King so that justice can be given. Only problem for Torin is will he lose Shannon to the King's justice and how much will he have to give of himself to keep what is rightfully his by Highlander Law, what a Highlander steals is rightfully his.

A story full of action on two fronts, sexual between our hero and heroine and Clan vs. Clan for retribution for harm done to it's peoples, homes and livestock. A web of deceit against the Crown that will make the hair stand up on the back of your neck as the tension builds throughout the story. A great Summer Read for anyone who needs a taste of the light and fluffy.

Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (July 6, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402237375
ISBN-13: 978-1402237379

The Wolf Next Door by Lydia Dare (Terra's Review)

Product Description

They can't even be in the same room together...

Ever since their failed elopement years ago, Prisca Hawthorne has taunted, insulted, and in every way tried to push him away. If only her heart didn't break every time Lord William Westfield left her...

But staying apart is even worse...

Lord William throws himself into drinking, gambling, and debauchery and pretends not to care about Prisca at all. But when he returns to find a rival werewolf vying for her hand, he'll stop at nothing to claim the woman who should have been his all along.

Can Prisca forgive the unforgivable, or are the moon-crossed lovers going to be forced into a battle of wills that could be fatal?

(Terra's Thoughts) If you liked the first two books of this series then you will most certainly love this one. I just couldn't wait for Will's story and was licking my fingers all the way through.

Book one and two gave us a little tasting of Prisca and Will with the dangling of tensions between them making us crave this story with high anticipation. Thank goodness the wait is over and the book delivers. The battle of will's along with tempers flying as two of the most stubborn people are put together at last.

Prisca's brothers are bound and determinded to make sure their baby sister who is a royal PITA is finally put to wed. The brother's decide that Will is the best candatite since it's better to choose from those you know than from those you don't. They don't want to see Prisca in the wrong hands, sad, unhappy and in constant fear so what better choice than The Wolf Next Door. Ah, but what the brother's don't know is that the beast they do know is actually a beast in more ways than they could have ever imagined. Oh goodness, you just can't help but giggle.

This is another delightful romp in the land of fluff that makes a great beach read or just a wonderful quicky while lounging by the pool.

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402236964
ISBN-13: 978-1402236969

The Summer of Skinny Dipping by Amanda Howells (Terra's Review)

While spending summer vacation with her family at her cousins’ fancy beach house in the Hamptons, Mia, 16, wants to join the popular crowd. Instead, she feels like the “frumpy relative”; in fact, even her own mother is a class snob who thinks Mia isn’t slim enough to be part of the “in” set. Then she bonds with gorgeous Simon, the boy next door, and they meet secretly at night on the beach, drink vodka, and skinny-dip in the wild ocean waves. The details about what the kids wear and their conversations about what is trendy overpower the story, especially because much of the fashion will date. But many teens will appreciate this first novel for how the dialogue not only captures the dynamics of Mia’s standoffs with her peers but also reveals her surprising discoveries about adults. Mia’s first-person narrative is right on about wanting to be “cool” (“I couldn’t help wishing I was more like them”) even as she despises much of what “they” stand for.

(Terra's Thoughts) I remember when I was in high school that I was a basket of insecurity and unsurity and can only imagine that the youth of today are much the same if not worse for the way that the lifestyle has changed so drastically. This book was a wake up call. Sad and happy, dangerous and free spirited, angry and loving and so much more. A most definite read for anyone this Summer and one that should be on high school reading requirements nationwide.

I am not a big lover of first person narrative but Mia's story just grabs ahold of you and won't let go. This is a quick read only because you can't put it down once you start it. A story that is vividly in tune so as to make you think you are actually the one telling the story and seeing all that is really happening. You'll feel the awkwardness that Mia feels around her cousins and their friends, the loneliness that she feels and the spark of excitement that flairs brighter that the fourth of July fireworks when she meets the pale faced awkward boy next door.

Honestly this is one I don't want to elaborate on except to say it is a must read. Young or old or anywhere in between, take a chance you won't be sorry on.

Reading level: Young Adult

Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire (June 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402238622
ISBN-13: 978-1402238628

A Little Help From Our Friends by Carrie Lofty

One of the more challenging tasks when writing a historical romance is creating a sympathetic best friend for the hero or heroine. Conflict is much easier to sustain if the protagonists don't have a sensible sounding board ready to tell them the blunt truth. I believe this is also why so many romance heroes and heroines are orphans. Not only does their lack of parental figures create an angst-ridden backstory, but they'll rarely be privy to sage words of advice from sympathetic elders.

Now don't get me wrong--I'm not criticizing this tried-and-true literary device. I've used it often, and so did renowned masters through the ages. If you haven't see the trio of "Sassy Gay Friend" videos that take Shakespeare to task for his treatment of Desdemona http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKttq6EUqbE Ophelia http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnvgq8STMGM and Juliet http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwnFE_NpMsE, you really must!

But I was determined to try something a little different for SONG OF SEDUCTION http://www.carrielofty.com/Song.html. Yes, Mathilda is a widow and an orphan, and Arie is a stranger in town, but the two are rescued from complete confusion by the sympathetic friends in their lives.

Mathilda relies on Lady Ingrid Venner, a salt-trader's daughter who married very well. Ingrid keeps Mathilda from losing perspective, goading her when the situation requires and offering her a hug when her world starts to collapse. I was surprised by how freeing Ingrid was to create. Amidst all the angst and tribulations, she became a sunny, comedic bright spot, showing by example that life could be fantastic--if one proved brave enough.

In this excerpt, Ingrid drags Mathilda out of bed after Arie de Voss has left town.

"Mathilda? Dearest?"

"I don't want to wake up."

"Nonsense," Ingrid said. "Get up, Tilda. This is my house, and I will have you forced from it bodily if I must."

"Does Venner know you call it your house?"

"I chose the wallpaper. It's mine." She stepped away from the bed and opened the drapes, ushering midday sunshine into the dolor of Mathilda's room. "Now get up before someone sees us. They'll mistake me for your lady's maid, and my place in society will be ruined."

I also provided Arie with a confidant of sorts in the form of Salzburg's real-life Kapellmeister, Michael Haydn. When Arie's confidence fails or, as a Dutchman living in Austria, when his confusion about life in Salzburg becomes too much, he turns to Haydn.

Dark eyes regarded him with a paternal sort of scrutiny. "Arie, I have never been so impressed with a composition of yours, nor with your skills as a conductor. I want you to understand how highly I hold your progress these last few months."

Arie swallowed hard. "Thank you, sir."

"You're quite welcome. I believe my decision to invite you to Salzburg has proven a solid one. Now, how goes your current work?"

Arie marveled at the composer's subtle, adept manners. Experience and leadership had taught him how to negotiate any number of personalities, even a jumbled recluse like him. "I am nearly finished with a second cantata," he said. " And I have three new students."

He wondered at the simplicity of including Mathilda in that number, so inconsequential. For all of her sudden impact on his life, she was only a student. For now.

"And the symphony?" Haydn asked.

Arie winced, almost regretting his decision to reveal his grandest ambition. He did not like reminders about his stalled progress, nagged well enough by his own tick-tock impatience. But if one individual was most like a friend to him, Michael Haydn was that man. When the compulsion to write a symphony finally overcame his hesitations, he had needed to tell someone.

"I am through the second movement. Otherwise nothing."

"Ah, it will come," Haydn said. "The good ones take some time."

But even with such sensible companions, Arie and Mathilda proved up to the task of remaining at cross-purposes until finding their happy ending!

What do you think about sympathetic friend characters in romances? Can you name favorites who helped liven and deepen books on your keeper shelves? I'd love examples!

Desire Me by Robyn DeHart Blog Tour

The Legend Hunters . . .
The Men of Solomon's meet in secret, their very existence only a rumor among the best of Victorian society. They are treasure hunters, men of wealth and title, seekers of myths and legends. And no legend is as mystifying as the lost city of Atlantis . . .

DESIRE ME

Years ago, Maxwell Barrett found a map to Atlantis and dedicated his life to the search for the mystical lost continent. But when an alluring woman makes a wager for the priceless artifact, he may have discovered an even greater treasure.

A descendant of Atlantis, Sabine Tobias needs the map to decipher an ancient prophecy. What she doesn't need are the sparks flying between her and Max. He's too devilishly charming to be trusted: The fate of her people is at stake as well as her heart. Yet a ruthless killer also covets the map. Now Max and Sabine must race to decode the prophecy's riddle before this criminal fulfills his deadly mission.



I've got 5 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on June 28th 2010!

Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory Blog Tour

HOW CAN THIS PASSIONATE KNIGHT…
Renowned beauty Lady Linnet is torn between two desires: revenge on those who destroyed her family or marriage to her childhood sweetheart Sir James Rayburn. One fateful night, she makes a misguided choice: she sacrifices Jamie’s love for a chance at vengeance.

TRUST A BEAUTY WITH A PAST?
Jamie Rayburn returns to England in search of a virtuous wife—only to find the lovely Linnet as bewitching as ever. Their reckless affair ignites anew, even hotter than before, although Jamie vows to never again trust her with his heart. Then just as Linnet begins to make amends, she’s tempted by one last opportunity to settle old scores. But a final retribution could cost her Jamie’s love – this time forever.



Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory Giveaway

I've got 5 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on June 21st 2010!