The Cowboy's Accidental Baby - Marin Thomas (HWR #1644 - May 2017)

Series: Cowboys of Stampede Texas (Book 1)

FROM PLAYBOY COWBOY TO…DADDY?

Bronc rider Gunner Hardell never plans past the next stop on the rodeo. When he's home in Stampede, Texas, he's part-time manager of the run-down Moonlight Motel, to get his crotchety grandpa off his back. Then he meets interior designer Lydia Canter -- hired to renovate the motel -- and suddenly the gig gets a whole lot more appealing…

Lydia is looking for love, but there's nothing wrong with some Mr. Right Now while she waits for Mr. Right. But one steamy night with Gunner has unexpected consequences. And she would rather raise their baby alone than give the good-time cowboy a chance to break her heart. When Gunner learns he's going to be a daddy, he's determined to prove to Lydia he really is her Mr. Right!

Good book. Gunner is a rodeo bronc rider who enjoys his laid-back lifestyle. He participates in some rodeos, enjoys the attentions of the buckle bunnies, and moves on. Commitment is not a word that exists in his vocabulary and doesn't see himself ever settling down. He is loyal to his family, however, even though they are constantly on his case about his lack of ambition. When he isn't rodeoing, he is the part-time manager of his grandfather's Moonlight Motel. It doesn't get much business, but that's alright with him.

Lydia Canter is an interior designer. Her Aunt Amelia owns the mortgage on the motel and is determined to force the owner into renovating. Amelia hires Lydia to do the renovations. Lydia is okay with spending a couple weeks in Stampede to get things going, but she wants to get back to her life in Wisconsin. She has seen her friends settling down and she's ready to find her own Mr. Right. She has very specific ideas on what she's looking for and has signed up on several dating sites to find it. Motel manager and cowboy Gunner doesn't meet any of those requirements, but he does light off some sparks in her.

I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Gunner is Lydia's help in doing the renovation. She doesn't consider him very reliable, since he keeps taking off to do rodeos or other fun activities. Gunner thinks Lydia is a bit uptight and too work focused, and is determined to get her to have some fun. Neither of them expect the attraction that flares between them, but they're willing to indulge in a summer fling.

But when the stick turns blue, both of them have some decisions to make. Lydia is quite prepared to raise the baby on her own. Though Gunner has proposed, she knows he doesn't love her, and marriage without love is not an option for her. Gunner has never pictured himself as a father, but the thought of walking away doesn't sit right either. If he's going to be a part of his baby's life, he's going to have to convince Lydia that he's up to the job. And to do that, he has to show her that she needs more than a 9 to 5 stuffed shirt.

I loved seeing Gunner add some fun to Lydia's life. He has no problem distracting her from her business first mindset, whether it's taking her to a rodeo or luring her back to bed. But when he finds out about the baby, a whole new side of him comes out. I loved all the little things he did for her, from the special water to the scented air. I also loved seeing him get serious about the renovations, put his rodeo trips aside, and discover that he really wants to be part of Lydia's life. There's a lot more to Gunner than the image he portrays. I especially loved seeing him with the various kids he encountered. I enjoyed seeing Lydia start comparing all her potential dates to Gunner and have them not measure up. She was surprised to discover that the man who didn't match any of her requirements was the only one she wanted to be with. She's stunned to realize that she's fallen in love with him, knowing that he doesn't return the feelings.

When she runs from those feelings, back to the safety of Wisconsin, she has to decide if she wants to risk her heart with him. I loved Gunner's big moment, as he finally makes that last step into adulthood and realizes the truth of his feelings for Lydia. I loved watching him put his heart on the line and risk it all.

I also enjoyed the secondary characters. Gunner's grandfather and Lydia's Aunt Amelia are especially fun with their bickering. It quickly becomes obvious that there is more between them than antagonism and I loved seeing them play each other. They also appeared to be conspiring to get Gunner and Lydia together. I am looking forward to seeing more of them in the next book. There was also a little bit of exposure to Gunner's brother Logan. He comes across as pretty judgmental of Gunner at the beginning, but lightens up a bit toward the end. He does have some pretty good advice for Gunner, so there is hope for him. There's another brother that's only mentioned in passing. Lydia has two cousins that she is close to and I liked meeting them. I liked their support of her when she needs it and the memories they shared of their visits to Stampede. I suspect they'll be back in Stampede soon, too.

Hold Me, Cowboy - Maisey Yates (SD #2479 - Nov 2016)

Series: Copper Ridge (Book 8)

Stranded with a cowboy for Christmas…

Oil and water have nothing on Sam McCormack and Madison West. The wealthy rancher has never met a haughtier -- or more appealing -- woman in his life. And when they're snowed in, he's forced to admit this ice queen can scorch him with one touch…

Madison had plans for the weekend! Instead she's stranded with a man who drives her wild. A night of no-strings fun leaves both of them wanting more when they return to Copper Ridge. His proposal: twelve days of hot sex before Christmas! But will it ever be enough?

Good story of opposites attracting. Madison is a member of Copper Ridge's wealthiest family, but one who has been something of an outsider for the past ten years. At seventeen, she was seduced by a married instructor, but when the affair was discovered, she was blamed. Hurt, bitter and emotionally devastated, she has avoided any relationships since then, using a snarky attitude to keep people at a distance. But she's tired of her celibacy and has set up a weekend away with an acquaintance, one that she feels won't threaten her defensive walls. But a snowstorm keeps her partner away, and a power outage sends her to the cabin next door for help. To say she isn't happy at who opens the door would put it mildly.

Sam is the local farrier who has taken care of her family's horses for several years. He is also a talented metal sculptor who has come to the cabin as a retreat to decide what he's going to make next. Sam is gruff, grouchy and anti-social. He's carrying some baggage of his own from the past which has left him guilt-ridden and emotionally closed off. He, too, has avoided intimacy of any kind since it happened. Having Madison, who has been a thorn in his side for years, show up at his door is not the inspiration he was looking for. But he can't let her freeze, so he lets her in.

Sam and Maddy have been butting heads for years. He thinks she's a snob and she thinks he's just a jackass. But all that antagonism has been a cover for the attraction that both have been trying to deny. When Sam finds out about Maddy's plans for the weekend, he offers to fill in. A passion filled weekend will scratch their respective itches and they can go back to normal when they go home. However, things get much more intense than either expected, and within a few days of going home they decide they want to continue for a little longer. They give themselves permission to carry on until Christmas, and then they'll end it.

But a funny thing happens in the midst of all that window steaming togetherness. Sam's gruffness hides a pretty sensitive heart and Maddy finds herself opening up about the events behind her ten year dry spell. His lack of condemnation for her actions and his disgust with the instructor, go a long way toward healing the hurt that has been with her for so long. It also makes her far more willing to open herself up to the feelings that are growing for Sam. He has also begun experiencing feelings that he has closed off, but he's not at all happy about it. He tells Maddy about the tragedy that has made him the way he is, and is stunned that she doesn't feel the same disgust with him that he does. I ached for Maddy as she tells him how she feels and he does his best to drive her away. I loved seeing her admit that she's made her mistakes, but that she's through accepting all the blame. But getting Sam to see that he doesn't deserve the guilt he heaps on himself doesn't go as well. I cried for her unhappiness, as she is sure that Sam loves her, but can't get past his own pain. I loved seeing his brother Chase dish out the same medicine that Sam gave him, enabling Sam to finally see the truth. I loved the ending, with Sam and Maddy coming together, but also agreeing that love isn't going to turn them into a unicorns and rainbows kind of couple, that snark and sarcasm will always be a part of who they are.

Wildfire in His Arms - Johanna Lindsey (Gallery Books - June 2015)

Series: Callahan-Warren (Book 2)

With his work in Montana completed now that the Callahan-Warren feud has ended in marriage rather than bloodshed, Degan Grant sets out for California because it is far away from the home he wants to forget--until the US Marshal who saved his life calls in a favor. All Degan has to do is apprehend three outlaws on the marshal's list and turn them over to the law. Easy enough, he figures, for a man no one wants to tangle with.

But then a bold young woman crosses his path. Maxine grew up so pretty and attracted so much unwanted attention in her Texas hometown that events spiraled out of control. She will try anything to escape the handsome, enigmatic gunfighter who intends to turn her over to a corrupt sheriff who will hang her instead of putting her on trial.

Saddled with a sassy, spirited young woman who insists she is innocent, Degan must hunt down a vicious killer and keep an old enemy at bay. But forced into intimate proximity with his beguiling prisoner, he finds his desire sparking into a wildfire of passion, and he can no longer deny that it is time for them to risk confronting their pasts so he can have a chance at a future with her in his arms forever.

Good book. I was fascinated by Degan in One Heart to Win, as he filled his role as bodyguard. There was something about him that said there was more to his story than just being a gunfighter for hire. In this book, he is ready to move on, following his plan to go to California, when an old friend calls in a favor. The marshal has some outlaws to capture, but also a family conflict, so he asks Degan to catch them for him. As there aren't too many people willing to tangle with a man of Degan's reputation, he figures it should be an easy thing to do. But things don't go quite as expected when his first capture turns out to be a young woman rather than the man he expected.

Maxine Dawson had been on the run for two years, accused of murdering the mayor of her hometown. Growing from a pretty child to a beautiful woman, she wasn't happy with the type of attention she was getting, and defending herself made things worse. She's certain that she'll be hanged without a trial if the sheriff succeeds in getting her back to town.

I loved the first meeting between Max and Degan, as it really set the tone for their entire relationship. He succeeds in catching her, but Max is smart and feisty and determined to stay free. From the start she really keeps Degan on his toes. Degan is strong, silent and honorable. Initially he plans to simply turn her over to the law and let a jury decide her fate. He keeps her with him while tracking down the other two outlaws, giving him the chance to decide if he believes her story.

It was great fun to see the contrast between the talkative, open and outspoken Max and the silent, mysterious Degan. Her frustration at his silence was obvious, as was his amusement at her efforts to get him to talk. During their travels they slowly get to know and trust each other. I really enjoyed Degan's confusion at her complete lack of fear of him and his reputation and Max's enjoyment of watching others fall all over themselves to do what he wants. I also loved that after two years of surviving on her own, she doesn't turn into a helpless female. There are a couple great scenes where she actually saves his life thanks to her own shooting skills. She also nurses him back to health after he gets injured. I also loved the contrast of the ruthless gunfighter with the man who really likes his creature comforts. The visuals of people hurrying to satisfy his requirements for baths, real beds and dinners were really amusing.

I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Degan has been burned once before and now keeps his emotions well in hand. After suffering through so many unwanted advances, Max isn't in any hurry to settle down with someone who doesn't want her for who she is. Neither can deny the powerful attraction between them, though they certainly try to resist it. The heat builds between them until it bursts into flame. I liked seeing their feelings grow, though admitting it seemed out of the question. Though he has quite the hardened reputation, there is actually a softer side to Degan that Max brings out. I loved seeing those sweet and tender moments because they were so unexpected. When they are forced into marriage, Max is determined not to hold him to it, not wanting to tie him down. I loved their return to Texas, and Degan's protectiveness as Max faces her enemies. I also loved Max's support of Degan as he faces his own past. Their trip to Chicago emphasized how much she had come to care for him. I loved watching her get up the courage to face him about their future, and the way she did it was perfect for the relationship they had. I loved their decision on where to build their life together. I hope that there will be more Callahan-Warren stories.

Besides the building relationship between Max and Degan, I enjoyed the other threads of the story. Degan's past is dogging his heels as his ex-fiancée shows up, trying to get him back to Chicago. Her dogged pursuit of him finally gets explained at the very end, though the reasoning is convoluted. He also has a man on his trail who is looking for revenge for something he blames on Degan. Degan's restraint is amazing, and I loved how Max's protectiveness toward Degan is shown here.

Their pursuit of the other outlaws, one very simple and one very dangerous, was really good. The face-off with the vicious killer and his gang was a real nail-biter, as Degan tried to protect Max and she ends up in the middle anyway. Max's level-headed nature and trust in Degan really comes out in this part. 

Colton's Secret Son - Carla Cassidy (HRS #1935 - Mar 2017)

Series: Coltons of Shadow Creek (Book 1)

When criminal mastermind Livia Colton escapes from prison, her son, Texas Ranger Knox Colton, is suspended from his job. Embittered, the loner lawman heads home to Shadow Creek, Texas, a town full of unsettling memories for him. But Knox is floored when he discovers that the woman he loved and lost has a son that looks just like him.

Allison Rafferty thought she was doing the right thing by not telling Knox about young Cody all those years ago. Now the man she still loves insists on getting to know his son. And as a threat looms over Shadow Creek, they'll both discover just how far a Colton will go to protect what's theirs.

Gripping start to the new series. Livia Colton is the half-sister to Michael Colton (Coltons of Texas) and turned out to be worse than he was. Now she has escaped from prison and her son Knox, a Texas Ranger, is paying the price. He's on leave until she's recaptured, because the higher-ups consider him a risk. So he has gone home to Shadow Creek to stay with one of his half-brothers. While there, he discovers that the woman he had loved gave birth to a son she never told him about. He's determined to be a part of Cody's life now.

Ten years ago, Allison had believed she was doing the right thing. She was afraid of what Livia would do if she knew Knox had a child. She was also hurt and angry when Knox had walked away from her during that time in his life. Now she has to deal with the consequences.

Knox is understandably angry when he finds out, but he's also thrilled to discover he has a son. The first part of the book deals with him getting to know Cody. I loved seeing the two of them together. Not having had a father in his life, Knox is determined to be everything that his wasn't. I loved seeing those bonding moments, everything from the fun of fishing together to the sweetness of being able to tuck him in.

Knox has a harder time dealing with his feelings for Allison. He's angry about the deception, but the attraction they had all those years ago is still burning strong. He doesn't want to be pulled back into a relationship with her, having been hurt once by her. Allison feels the same attraction, but doesn't want to fall for him again and have her heart broken when he leaves again.

I loved the rekindling of their relationship. Both fight it hard, but being together as Knox gets to know Cody gives them a taste of what could be. Everything is thrown into turmoil when Cody doesn't come home from school one day. He has been kidnapped and Knox and Allison have to learn to lean on each other if they are going to make it through. I really liked seeing the support they provided each other. Knox is especially protective and seems to have a sixth sense about what kind of comfort she needs at any given time. He has some pretty sweet and tender moments as he does so. I also liked how Allison began to see past Knox's tightly controlled emotions to the vulnerable parts of his heart. There was one time when the stress caused some hard words to be spoken, but even those served as eye openers to both Knox and Allison, as they saw their own actions in a different light. I loved seeing them come together in the end, admitting that their love had never died, and ready to see what a future might bring.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. Livia's escape is going to provide the background for the series, as each sibling has to deal with his or her feelings for their mother, and the danger she brings to them all. In this one, she has made a successful escape from prison and is on the run. When Cody is kidnapped, there is some question as to who is behind it. Allison has been dealing with threats from a disgruntled former employee and vandalism from a business rival. She is convinced that one of them is behind Cody's disappearance. Knox isn't too sure about that, and is more inclined to believe that Livia has decided to use Cody as a way to get something she needs. In the meantime, there is precious little real help from the local sheriff, leaving Knox and Allison to investigate on their own. Tension builds as the days go on and their searches lead to dead ends. They get some unexpected help that proves to be useful in narrowing down where Cody has been taken, but time is running out. The conclusion is intense as Cody's life is in danger. Assistance comes from a surprise source, as his rescue is carried out.

One of my favorite characters other than Knox and Allison was young Cody. He's such a terrific kid, full of fun. I loved how he took to Knox right away. I hurt for him while he was in captivity, so scared and yet determined to be brave. I loved his confidence that his mom and Knox would find him. It was also really sweet to see the major case of hero worship he had going on for Knox, and his happiness when he found out Knox was his dad.

I also liked meeting some of Knox's siblings and getting a little bit of their stories. I am really looking forward to getting to know them all better.

The Lawman's Convenient Bride - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2545 - May 2017)

Series: Bravos of Justice Creek (Book 7)

FIRST COMES MARRIAGE

Feisty, fearless Jody Bravo's set to do everything for her baby. She doesn't need anything from anyone -- especially the stepbrother of her baby's late father. But lawman Seth Yancy won't leave her to face parenthood alone, no matter how prepared she is. And even though Jody resists, soon she's taken in completely by his charms -- and agrees to be his wife…

THEN COMES LOVE?

Hunky Sheriff Yancy's not without his fair share of admirers in Justice Creek. After a terrible tragedy years before, though, he's faced life alone. Now the real-life woman of his dreams just happens to be his bride -- and pregnant with the child of his heart, if not his reality. So "father" is a role that will come naturally to Seth. And will "husband" really be that far behind?

Very good story. Jody is pregnant and ready to handle everything on her own. She has everything planned out and is ready for anything. That is, except for the step-brother of her baby's father to get involved. Seth had had no idea that his late brother had fathered a child. At first furious at not being told, he quickly resolves to give Jody all the help she needs - whether she wants it or not.

I liked Jody. She's feisty and independent, determined to be the best mom she can. However, she can be a little too independent at times, pushing away the people that care for her. She has decided that marriage isn't for her, as that would mean risking her heart. She's been hurt twice before and isn't up for a doing it again. She's also got a secret she's been carrying for thirteen years, one that deeply affects her actions as a mother now. I loved how, in spite of being sure she's ready for anything, she still experiences the same doubts as any new mother once the baby arrives.

I liked Seth too. At the beginning he's pretty stiff and judgmental over not knowing about the baby. He had thought he was very close to his brother and couldn't understand why he hadn't been told. Seth is also one of those men who is very conscious of his duty. He has devoted all his time to his job as sheriff, avoiding getting involved with any of the women in town. He was in love once before, which ended tragically, and believes that loving again would be disloyal to his late fiancée.

I loved the development of their relationship. Because Seth won't take no for an answer, he is constantly underfoot, doing anything he can to make Jody's life easier. When she goes into labor early, and none of her coaches are around, Seth is the one who comes to the rescue. The labor and delivery scene is awesome, with the experience creating a big change in Seth. It's pretty sweet how he moves right in with Jody as a mother's helper. Jody knows she should send him home, but the longer he stays, the more she appreciates everything he does. It doesn't take long before they've developed an excellent friendship, one deep enough that they are able to share their worst hurts of the past.

It's pretty obvious that they are falling for each other, but neither wants to admit it. Jody has a pretty good idea of what is happening to her when she realizes that she doesn't want some other woman to win him at the bachelor auction. I loved Seth's insistence on following through with the date, and he really goes all out. By the end of it, he has realized that he wants Jody and the baby in his life permanently, though he still refuses to think of the L word. His proposal is sweet, but a little lacking. Jody, still avoiding her own feelings, agrees that they would suit each other well, and accepts his proposal. But once they are married, she realizes that she wants more than he appears to be willing to give. I liked that she didn't just give up, but was determined to fight for their marriage. She just had to get past Seth's stubborn refusal to believe that he can love again. I ached for Seth as he faced the thought of losing them both. I really liked how he finally admitted he should talk to someone, and that it was his father he opened up to. Seth's big moment at the end was awesome - romantic, sweet and pretty funny. I especially loved the epilogue and how it covered more than just a couple months.

I loved the always present support of the other Bravos and their families, as each one plays a role in Jody's life. It was pretty funny that they all could see the truth of Jody and Seth's feelings, even as they refused to believe. Jody's mom Willow was especially fun at the bachelor auction, as she prodded Jody along the bidding war.

There was one part early in the book that made me laugh out loud and really relate to Jody. When she was settling in for a night at home, her idea of relaxing was binge watching the second season of Outlander. As a huge Outlander fan myself, that made her all the more real to me.

*copy received in exchange for an honest review.

One Texas Cowboy Too Many - Carolyn Brown (Sourcebooks Casablanca - Mar 2016)

Series: Burnt Boot Texas (Book 3)

She’s Got Too Many Cowboys On Her Hands

Leah Brennan has always been the good girl of the Brennan family, groomed to become the matriarch of the clan. When a dark-eyed, tattooed, ponytailed bad boy saunters into her life, Leah knows he’s off-limits -- but his mesmerizing gaze makes her forget everything she used to think was important. As town-wide tension rises, Leah wonders if love really can conquer all…

And the Whole Town’s Taking Sides

When Rhett O’Donnell roars into Burnt Boot on a hot July evening, the first thing he sees is a beautiful blonde. She puts a little extra giddy-up in his heartbeat, but when Rhett’s desire throws him into the middle of a love triangle and a hundred-year-old feud, he realizes that winning his cowgirl’s heart will be a lot more complicated than he thought.

Another wonderful trip into the world of Carolyn Brown. Rhett has arrived in town to help his cousin on the Fiddle Creek Ranch and in the bar. Instead of driving a pickup truck like everyone else, he shows up on a steer-horn decorated motorcycle, ponytail, tattoo and all. One of the first people he sees is Leah Brennan and she immediately grabs his attention. Leah is the good girl of the Brennan clan, quiet and slated to eventually become the head of the family. She's the fourth grade teacher at the ranch school, and loves what she does. But one look into his eyes and Leah finds a part of her that she never knew existed.

One of the things I love about Carolyn Brown's books is the way the romance develops. There are no big secrets or other dramatic issues to tear them apart. Instead, there are two adults who take the time to get to know each other and realize that they belong together. Not that it is easy. Leah is a Brennan, and matriarch of the family, Mavis, takes an instant dislike to Rhett. She makes all kinds of threats to keep Leah in line and is none too happy when Leah stands up for her own desires. Being around Rhett gives Leah the courage to fight for herself. Rhett's always been a bit of a charmer, but he quickly realizes that he wants more than just a fun time with Leah. I loved the buildup of their relationship as they get to know each other, from fishing to Ferris wheel rides. Both are a little taken aback by how quickly their feelings grow, but they don't run or hide from them. Their happy ending comes about in an unexpected way, but was perfect for them.

I loved Leah and Rhett. From the moment she met him, Rhett brought out the more adventurous side of Leah. She was no longer content to just go along with Mavis's plans for her. Instead, she finds herself spending as much time as she can with Rhett. I loved seeing her stand up to Mavis and walk away from the ranch and the school, standing on her own. For a long time she had had a crush on Tanner Gallagher, but she knew nothing could come of that. Once she met Rhett, Tanner was history. There was some trouble involving Tanner, which Leah dealt with beautifully.

Rhett was great. He's easy going and has a great sense of humor. He sees the ridiculousness of the feud and doesn't let it bother him. He's very family oriented and refuses to get in the middle of the feud. I like the way he encourages Leah to follow her heart, rather than telling her what she should do. He's a true cowboy gentleman and maintains his cool under some pretty trying circumstances.

The feud between the Gallaghers and the Brennans continues in this book. In the previous book, The Trouble with Texas Cowboys, the feud had taken the form of "pig wars". Things get a lot more intense, smell wise, when septic tanks are involved. There is also a cat fight between the two matriarchs, Mavis and Naomi, right in the middle of the street. I loved the resolution of that one. There are hints that some of the family members have had enough, but so far no one is doing anything about it.

Convenient Proposal to the Lady - Julia Justiss (HH #1321 - Mar 2017)

Series: Hadley's Hellions (Book 3)

"Duty can also be pleasure, Lady Alyssa…"

When politician Benedict Tawny set out to save Lady Alyssa from a nefarious plot, he never expected to find himself trapped in a compromising situation with the alluring lady! Now duty demands he propose…and claim her as his bride!

Tainted by his illegitimacy, Ben knows he can't give Alyssa the life of luxury she deserves. But if he can convince her to succumb to the undeniable heat between them, their convenient marriage might just lead to the love of a lifetime!

Very good book. Ben is one of four friends who came together while at school. Each of them had issues that made them outcasts with their peers, so they banded together. Ben's difficulty was that he was born the illegitimate son of a viscount. He suffered from jeers and taunts throughout his childhood and longer, and also watched as his mother was treated even worse. Fortunately, he was acknowledged by his father and received the benefits of a good education. The treatment he received has made him extremely cautious about his own behavior, and he has matured into a thoughtful and honorable man. When he overhears a plot to ruin a young lady's reputation, he takes action to warn her of the danger.

Alyssa is an independent and stubborn young woman. Thanks to the bullying behavior of her father and brother, she has no intention of marrying and putting herself under the control of yet another man. She is a talented artist and intends to set up her own household with inherited funds, if she can just convince her father. Ben's sudden appearance and the tale he tells startles her, and she is hesitant to believe him. But the truth is soon obvious, and Alyssa decides to take action of her own. She's a bit naïve about the prospect of succeeding, but determined to have her way.

I really enjoyed the development of their relationship. From the moment they met, the attraction between them was strong. Though he could have simply warned her and left, Ben feels compelled to stay nearby and watch over her. Their morning meetings so that he could reassure himself of her safety quickly turned into a burgeoning friendship. He is amazed by her talent, and truly impressed by her wit and intelligence, while Alyssa is drawn to his kindness and honesty in his conversations with her. When her plans for revenge against those who plotted her ruin go wrong, Ben comes to her rescue and gets caught in a compromising position with her. Alyssa is horrified that his chivalry forces him to propose, and she is adamant in her refusal, not wanting to ruin his life. She has no confidence in her ability to be the kind of wife he needs.

Her stubbornness backfires on her, and her father's actions are especially cruel and inhumane. When Ben discovers what is happening, his reaction is immediate. I loved seeing him take charge. His attraction to Alyssa and his appreciation of her mind and talents convince him that a marriage between them can work. Alyssa is the one who needs to be convinced, and it isn't easy. The attraction she feels for him scares her, and she fears that giving in to it will lead her to lose her sense of who she is and what she wants to do. I loved that Ben promises her that there will be no intimacy until she wants it, even though resisting his attraction to her is a monumental task.

His patience and care for Alyssa is evident as he accompanies her on her travels. I loved seeing him earn her trust as he strives to keep his word. His efforts prove to be worth it when Alyssa is finally ready to give in to the steadily growing desire he inspires. However, neither is quite ready to give voice to their feelings, as their fears run deep. It takes a threat to Ben's career for them to realize what they have together. I loved her big moment at the end, when it is her turn to come to Ben's rescue.

There were some marvelous scenes showing Ben's determination to do whatever he could to ensure Alyssa's happiness. My favorite is the one in the lawyer's office, as Ben states his desire that Alyssa have full and sole control over her inheritance. The lawyer's reaction is priceless.

The underlying theme of how women were treated during this time was very well done. The nasty bet placed by Denbry only emphasized how helpless most women were against people like him. Alyssa's father and brother were another example of what they had to endure, with no true way to escape. There was also a theme of reputation, how important it was, and how fragile it could be. Denbry's method of revenge was truly devious and difficult to counter. Ben also had to deal with his own feelings about his past, especially after a surprise revelation by his mother. I loved his scenes with his father, and the changes in Ben that it showed.

I loved seeing the other Hellions and their wives. Their respect and support of Ben was great. I especially liked the way that Ben was able to enlist the ladies' help to make Alyssa more comfortable in a situation she dreaded. It was moving to see the way that they all banded together to deal with the threat against Ben.

A Billionaire Between the Sheets - Katie Lane (Forever - Nov 2015)

Series: Overnight Billionaires (Book 1)

Overnight billionaires, the Beaumont brothers are thrust into life in the fast lane with exotic cars, private jets . . . and sex and success on their minds.

A commanding presence in the boardroom and the bedroom, Deacon Beaumont has come to save the failing company French Kiss. He was born to be boss in this glamorous new world of lacy lingerie and stunning supermodels. But one bold and beautiful woman dares to question his authority.

Olivia Harrington has dedicated her life to the company's success. Just because Deacon is sexy as hell doesn't mean he'll make a better CEO. With a limitless supply of push-up bras and garter belts, Olivia turns her considerable feminine charms on Deacon to discover what makes him tick . . . and reveals instead the billion reasons why she wants him to stay.

Fun book and good start to the series. Olivia is the stepdaughter of the man who started French Kiss, a lingerie company. She grew up working for the company, being groomed by her stepfather to take it over. But when he died, he left the company to his three nephews instead. Olivia is determined to buy their shares and go back to what she was meant to do.

Deacon and his three brothers have grown up in Louisiana. There is bad blood between them and their uncle, so they are stunned to learn of their inheritance. Each has their own projects underway and could use the money that Olivia is offering. But Deacon has two things on his mind: First, a chance to get revenge on Olivia and his uncle for something that happened in the past, and second, a feeling that there is more going on than meets the eye. So he shows up in San Francisco, ready for battle.

The book started out fun and maintained the fun along with passion and a bit of mystery. The sparks flew between Olivia and Deacon from the moment she showed up in Louisiana, though neither is happy about it. Once Deacon arrives in San Francisco, he discovers that the company is actually in trouble, and his instinct to protect and rescue is awakened. He decides that he's not quite ready to sell out, and instead takes over the business side. Though initially ticked off by his actions, Olivia quickly discovers that Deacon knows what he's doing.

I liked both Deacon and Olivia. Olivia is stubborn, beautiful and creative. Though business isn't really her strong point, she wants to bring the company back from the brink of bankruptcy because of the wonderful memories of her time with her stepfather. Her first love is design, but she believes that she isn't good at it, so she has put those dreams aside. Deacon's arrival upends her plans, as she fights her attraction to him at the same time she has to try to work with him. Deacon is a smart, sexy and focused. He's got his own development company in Louisiana, but the challenge of saving French Kiss is too much to resist. He quickly loses his thirst for revenge, and instead finds his protective instincts roused by Olivia.

I enjoyed the development of their relationship. They butt heads a lot at the beginning, their antagonism fueled by an underlying attraction that both try to resist. Once they decided they were on the same side, their connection grew quickly. I especially loved seeing Deacon discover the woman underneath the business façade. From his support of her creative side to wanting to show her the world outside the company, he found himself wanting more than just the passion that flared between them. I also enjoyed seeing Olivia realize that there was much more to Deacon than the backwoods Louisiana hillbilly that she had believed him to be. But both also have a fair share of pride, and admitting to their feelings and accepting the vulnerability that means, is something that is hard to do. Some misunderstandings push them apart until each realizes the truth of what they want for their futures. I loved their big moments at the end, which were both funny (airport) and romantic (fashion show).

There was also some mystery behind the problems at French Kiss. Deacon stumbled upon one employee who appeared to be working with someone else to bring down the company. This would force Olivia to sell it for pennies on the dollar. With the help of Jason, company lawyer, and Kelli, Olivia's PA, Deacon also discovers that someone is skimming money from the company, adding to its problems. The resolutions of both these issues turned out to be different than I expected, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the book.

The secondary characters all added extra fun to the story. Babette, the French designer that Olivia found to design a line of men's underwear, was hilarious with her over-the-top dramatics and her horrible designs. I loved Deacon's reactions to those. Olivia's PA, Kelli, was a hoot with her not quite office appropriate clothing and outspoken personal revelations. Her developing relationship with Jason was fun to see. I loved Olivia's aging hippie neighbors and their unique dress code. They were a little flaky, but also fond of Olivia and watched out for her. The juicer man and the seagull, Jonathan, turned out to be more important than I expected. But my favorites were Deacon's brothers, Nash and Grayson. Both are just as sexy as Deacon, and have more in the way of blatant charm. Though they don't always agree with Deacon, they support him anyway. I loved their part in discovering Olivia's talent. I can't wait to read their stories.

Marine for Hire - Tawna Fenske (Createspace - Feb 2014)

Series: Front and Center (Book 1)

She thought she'd sworn off military men for good...

Sam Kercher is every inch a wickedly hot Marine. Tall. Sexy. Lethal. When his best friends call in a favor, Sam is forced to face an entirely new line of duty--playing nanny for their newly divorced sister and her squirming seven-month-old twin boys. If Sam can dissemble an M16 in his sleep, diaper duty should be a cakewalk...right? Unfortunately, Operation Nanny isn't quite that simple. Sheridan has sworn off overbearing military men, so Sam must protect her from her dirtbag ex without revealing just how much he has in common with her brothers. Or that he's been ordered not to touch her. Ever. Problem is, Sheri's one hell of a gorgeous woman, and Sam wants her--bad. Protect the girl. Care for the babies. Hide his identity. And keep his hands off. But even the most disciplined Marine has weaknesses...and Sheridan is one Sam might not be able to resist.

Fun book. Sheri is a newly divorced mother of twin boys. Her ex, tagged Lieutenant Limpdick by her overprotective older brothers, has been harassing her, wanting them to get back together. Since he left her for a stripper while she was recovering from having the twins, she's not interested. As a matter of fact, she's sworn of men for a while, especially military men. In her opinion they are overbearing, controlling, and all too ready to lie to her. All she wants to do is start her new job and take care of her boys. She needs a nanny, and her oldest brother, Mac, offers to find her one.

Sam is a Marine, on leave after a mission gone wrong, and feeling guilty about what happened. When his best friend Mac calls on him for a favor, he's willing to help. Especially since it's Sheri, who he has been crushing on since he was a geeky college kid. Mac just has two requirements: Sheri can't know that Sam is a Marine, and he has to keep his hands of her. He's pretty confident he can handle the kids, but resisting her advances is a whole other problem.

This was so much fun to read. Sam actually does quite well as a nanny. It was laugh out loud time to witness his first diaper changing scene, as his mind kept wandering from diapering to cleaning his rifle, but he pulled it off quite well. There's another hilarious scene as he has to deal with a dirty diaper, no diaper bag, and no one around to help. He is certainly creative. I loved seeing how well he bonded with the two babies.

I loved seeing the relationship develop between Sam and Sheri. The chemistry between them is off the charts, but Mac's threats are always there in the back of Sam's mind. Sheri keeps reminding herself that he works for her. But the pull is too strong, and Sheri makes her move. It was great fun to see her kill his self-control. I loved that they were honest about the attraction and the feelings between them, with no silly push and pull games. There's a fun scene when Sheri realizes that her brother has threatened Sam over not touching her. But it wasn't just a physical relationship. They connect over a lot of things, but especially the care of the two boys. There are some terrific "family type" moments that show how much they really belong together. I really loved seeing the way that Sam helps build up Sheri's confidence as a mother. She's always going on about how much better "normal" moms are at everything. I loved seeing how they fell for each other, but Sam fears what will happen when she finds out the truth. I have to say that I thought Sheri was a bit oblivious about it all. There were certainly enough "oops" moments that should have given it away. She is understandably hurt and angry when it does come out. I liked the ending, as a heart-to-heart with her best friend opens her eyes to what is really important.

I enjoyed the part of the story dealing with Sam protecting Sheri from her ex. Jonathan was definitely a creep and I loved the nickname Mac gave him. He did not take Sheri's divorcing him well, and seemed oblivious to the fact that he was completely in the wrong. It was especially great to see him compare so badly with Sam. Though I loved that Sam was there to protect her and the boys, it was great to see Sheri handle the final confrontation the way she did. She was much stronger than she suspected when her mama bear instincts were riled.

I liked Sheri's friend Kelli, who was a terrific support for her. She was there to help with the kids, give moral support, and even the occasional "don't be an idiot" talk. I loved her comments about Mac. As for him, he has the overprotective brother thing down pat. He loves his sister, and he'll do what he has to whether she likes it or not. I suspect that he's got some woman trouble ahead for himself, and I can't wait to read it.

*copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Meant to Be Mine - Marie Ferrarella (HSE #2541 - Apr 2017)

Series: Matchmaking Mamas (Book 18)

THE BOY NEXT DOOR IS BACK…AND AFTER HER HEART!

He's a "gift" -- a referral from the Matchmaking Mamas -- sent by Tiffany Lee's mother to do her bathroom remodel. But the real surprise is that Tiffany already knows Eddie Montoya. When they were little, he was her playground protector. When they were in college, Eddie was her campus competition. And now she's a teacher and he's her handyman?

Well, just on weekends. On Monday morning, Eddie shows up at Tiffany's school -- as the new third-grade teacher. When a fund-raising contest between classes is announced, the old rivalry heats up. And it's game on! Except as the playful competition intensifies, so do their feelings for each other. And Eddie begins to wonder if they might work better…as a team.

Good book. I loved the prologue and how Eddie and Tiffany met the first time. It really showed what a terrific guy Eddie was from the very beginning. That was followed by Tiffany's mother's visit with Theresa and the request for her matchmaking assistance. I always enjoys seeing the ways that Theresa and her friends bring people together.

Tiffany is a hardworking fifth grade teacher who has been burned by love once. She is determined not to let it happen again, so she simply avoids relationships. It seems to have made her rather cynical about men in general. She claims to be content with her friends, her job and her kids at school. She's super-competitive, and many of her reactions seem to be about her and how they affect what she wants.

Eddie is also a teacher, one who has been out of work. He works as a handyman to make ends meet while waiting to get another teaching job. Theresa has recommended him for a remodeling job. He lets her know up front that he has just gotten a teaching job, so his handyman work will be on weekends only. He comes across immediately as a really nice guy, honest and honorable. He's terrific with the kids in his class. It's obvious that they love and respect him. I loved his stories about growing up with sisters and the effect they've had on his life.

When he first arrives at Tiffany's house to do the work, she is still sound asleep, and not pleased to be awakened. She's not very nice to Eddie, though she feels a certain pull toward him. I admit, if I was expecting a handyman, I would have made sure I was up and dressed, and definitely would not have gone back to bed while he was in my house. That was definitely a little strange. Her attitude toward him didn't really improve once she really woke up. Eddie remembers Tiffany from college too, and the fact that they were always at odds. Nothing has really changed as far as that goes. By the time he leaves on Sunday, he's still as attracted to her as he was then. Meanwhile, Tiffany can't figure out why he gets under her skin the way he does and is trying desperately to get him out of her mind.

That chance goes out the window on Monday when she discovers that he's the replacement teacher for one that had her baby early. Now there's no way to avoid seeing him. It was interesting to see her reaction when she realized that she knows him from the past. She acts like he deliberately tried to trick her, but if I were him, I wouldn't have said anything either. She's pretty rude to him, but he's never rude back. There may be a little softening when he comes to finish the bathroom remodel, but she's still fighting the attraction tooth and nail. I really loved how he knew her well enough that he expected her to cancel their dinner date, and came prepared with a rather inventive response. The sparks finally come to the point where they burst into flame. Even then, Tiffany wonders what she's gotten herself into, but Eddie seems to know just how to calm her fears.

The school competition was a pretty cool thing. I loved the way that they got the kids involved in helping the shelter. Once again, Tiffany's competitive nature kicked in, and she was determined that her class would beat Eddie's. Didn't seem to matter to her that there was an age difference of two years. I was happy to see that she tried to emphasize the reason and the goal, rather than winning to the kids. I had a feeling that the result would be what it was. It was really fun to see Tiffany and Eddie forced to work together at the picnic. I loved how Eddie was so up-beat and positive, able to come up with terrific solutions to the problems they encountered. It was really great to see Tiffany start to realize that Eddie really was a nice guy.

I really liked the ending. The revelation of the picture and the story behind it was sweet and romantic. I loved the epilogue, with Theresa and the others congratulating themselves on another successful match. I also loved the way the kids from their classes were included in the wedding.

First Time With a Highlander - Gwyn Cready (Sourcebooks Casablanca - Oct 2015)

Series: Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands (Book 2)

She needs a man-but only for a night

What do you get when you imbibe centuries-old whiskey-besides a hangover the size of the Highlands? If you're twenty-first century ad exec Gerard Innes, you get swept back to 18th-century Edinburgh and into the bed of a gorgeous, fiery redhead. Gerard has only a foggy idea what he and the lady have been up to...but what he does remember draws him into the most dangerous and exhilarating campaign of his life.

Be careful what you wish for...

Serafina Seonag Fallon's scoundrel of a fiancé has left her with nothing, and she's determined to turn the tables. If she can come up with a ringer, she can claim the cargo he stole from her. But the dashing man she summons from the future demands more than a night, and Serafina finds it easier to command the seas under her feet than the crashing waves he unleashes in her heart.

This was a really fun time travel romance. It begins with Serafina complaining about her dastardly ex-fiancé, who seduced her, dumped her, and used her money to purchase a ship's cargo, leaving her broke and with a ruined reputation. If she has any hope of retrieving that cargo  she needs a look-alike man to impersonate Edward and sign the cargo over to her. Enter Abby and Undine. Undine is something like a witch, whose potions have been known to bring just what is needed. She creates the potion but warns Serafina to be careful what she wishes for.

Gerard is a twenty-first century ad exec in Manhattan who has just landed a big account and is celebrating. He has quite the reputation as a ladies' man, and has invited a young lady to his room to continue the celebrating. She's a bit worse for drink, and he's actually a gentleman and puts her to bed to sleep it off. In the meantime, he samples some three hundred year old Scotch, then passes out himself. He wakes up the next morning not only in bed with a different woman, but also in a different city and a different century!

That first scene is hilarious, with Gerard completely confused about what happened, with some hazy memories that don't really make sense to him. Serafina is also confused and experiencing some of the same memories. Gerard is fortunate in that the first person he encounters turns out to be a fellow time traveler who can fill him in a little bit. Explantations are cut short when their activities of the previous night bring unwelcome visitors and he and Serafina have to make a run for it. This begins a highly amusing tale as Serafina and Gerard try to track down her cargo. There's more to the story than just the cargo, including some piracy, threats to Scotland's independence, spying and romancing.

I loved Serafina. She is feisty, independent and stubborn. She has made mistakes (letting Edward sweet talk her into sleeping with him before marriage, giving him access to her money) but she is doing her best to rise above it. Her reputation may be in tatters, but that isn't going to stop her. She has her plan and nothing is going to stop her from carrying it out, even a highly distracting man of the future.

Gerard was great. I thought he took to the eighteenth century pretty easily once he accepted that it had happened. He's quite a charming flirt, and it is fun to see him try to work that charm on Serafina. He also quickly becomes very protective of her, and finds himself in interesting situations because of it. At first he's determined to do what has to be done, so that Undine can send him home, but it doesn't take long for him to start thinking about staying longer.

Though neither wanted a relationship in the beginning, their connection is fast and deep. It was fun to see them bicker their way around Edinburgh as they tried to track down her cargo. They were also desperate to reconstruct their memories of the night before, especially to find out if they had truly married or simply faked it. They get themselves into and out of quite a few scrapes, frequently with the help of Gerard's fast thinking and creative mind. It was especially fun to see him put his twenty-first century marketing skills to work in 1706 Scotland. I really enjoyed the scenes with the baker and tavern owner, and the part with Gerard and the fancy chemises was a riot.

As his time in Scotland draws closer to its conclusion, Gerard realizes that he doesn't want to lose Serafina. He makes a few missteps in his ideas for their future, but eventually comes to the conclusion that he will do whatever he must to make her happy. Whether that means stepping aside for someone else, or changing his entire life is a decision that isn't easy to make. Serafina, too, doesn't want to lose Gerard, but she doesn't want to make him give up his family, fortune and friends. She also has to let go of her pride a little bit, and learn that it's okay to lean on someone for a little help now and then.

There were also a few interesting twists that came out in the final chapter. One involving a bottle of whisky and one involving a dress that turns out to be more than a dress. And finally one that will require a lesson in genetics and the weirdness that is time travel.

I'm looking forward to reading more in this series, including going back and reading the first one.

Montana Destiny - R.C. Ryan (Forever - May 2010)

Series: McCords (Book 2)

They're the McCords...three rugged, sexy cowboy cousins who'll inherit the family range--if they seek the treasure hidden on it. But even more precious are the women who can tame their wild hearts...

Emergency medic Marilee Trainor likes her freedom and lives for trouble. But when she stumbles upon a clue to the legendary McCord gold, she's suddenly in a mysterious killer's sights--and the arms of irresistible playboy Wyatt McCord. This McCord cousin has been everywhere, yet the ranch is the only place he feels at home. Now Marilee's courage and independence make him want to protect her, win her heart, and finally settle down. But trust is the one thing Wyatt and Marilee can't easily give. And their survival and everything they cherish depends on whether they can surrender to each other--to fight for their...

Good book, second in a series about three cousins who come home to Montana to continue their late grandfather's quest for lost gold. This book is about Wyatt, the middle cousin, who also has quite a reputation as a ladies' man. After years of wandering the world, he's happy to be back on the ranch that feels like home. The only thing that can make it better is spending time with beautiful EMT Marilee. Marilee is fairly new to town, having been hired to run the town's only ambulance. She's worked long and hard against her upbringing to gain her independence and she's not planning to give it up for anyone.

I really enjoyed the way that Wyatt finally got Marilee to talk to him the first time. There aren't too many people who could time a fall off a bucking bull to land right at a woman's feet. Even though she shuts down his advances quickly, he doesn't give up, and by the end of the evening he's managed to talk his way into having dinner with her. And though he's really attracted to her, he plays the gentleman and behaves himself. Marilee ends up having more fun than she expected. And when one of her emergency calls results in finding a clue about his family's lost gold, she takes it right to him. This puts them both in the sights of someone who doesn't want them looking for that gold.

I loved seeing the relationship develop between Marilee and Wyatt. It was sweet to see them getting to know each other. Wyatt has a pretty wicked sense of humor and brings a lot of laughter into her life. There are a lot of things that they have in common. Both of them are stubborn and independent, which has them butting heads more than once.  Marilee especially can carry her independence a bit too far at times. She grew up with a controlling father and a mother that was so dependent that she couldn't make a decision without him. Marilee swore that would never happen to her, but she also sometimes forgets about the art of compromise. Wyatt is a true cowboy, raised to respect and protect women. When Marilee is put in danger, his protectiveness goes a bit overboard, causing Marilee to push him away. It takes some hard times and deep soul-searching for both of them to learn to give a little. The ending was especially sweet and romantic.

The suspense of the story was a real roller coaster ride. The discovery of the pages from Coot's diary began a series of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. Each "accident" became more suspicious as Wyatt and the others wondered who was behind them. The tension continued to build throughout as the clues started to come together. The final confrontation was intense with a somewhat surprising outcome. I'm looking forward to the next book and hopefully a resolution to the search.

As usual with small town stories, there are some unique and quirky characters. First of all, I loved the boys' Aunt Cora and how happy she was to have them all back on the ranch. She is the heart of it and gives them all the mother-type love they could want. I liked that she's just as independent as the rest of them, and stubborn too. I liked Daffy, the waitress at the saloon, with her gruff, gossipy care about everyone. It was always fun to see what she had to say when they were in the saloon. Delia was a character that grew on me. She was so mean at the beginning, but as the book went on, her attitude was explained. I loved seeing the changes she went through, thanks to the understanding of Wyatt and the others. 

Tycoon Cowboy's Baby Surprise - Katherine Garbera (HD #2520 - May 2017)

Series: Wild Caruthers Bachelors (Book 1)

It only takes one night in Vegas…

Wedding planner Kinley Quinten's luck runs out when her job brings her back to Texas -- and face-to-face with her child's father, rancher Nate Caruthers. The passion that got them in trouble during a one-night stand three years ago is still there, too strong to deny.

Nate can't help it: Kinley gets under his skin. But what happened in Vegas really needs to stay there. Too bad that cliché only gets him so far as he falls for the woman whose baby secret will change everything!

Very good book with two very strong-willed characters. Kinley and Nate had grown up together on the Rockin' C ranch. Nate is the ranch owner's son, and Kinley the daughter of the ranch foreman. Though there were a few years difference in their ages, Nate had always been nice to Kinley and she grew up with quite a crush on him. When they met again in Las Vegas after she graduated from college, they had a hot and heavy weekend together, then parted ways, planning to leave it there. That is, until Kinley discovered she was pregnant and tried to contact him. When she called, Nate blew her off before she could even tell him her news, so she stayed in Las Vegas, got a job and tried to forget about him. Then Kinley's boss sends her back to her hometown as wedding planner for Nate's brother Hunter. The attraction that burned so hot between Nate and Kinley was still as strong as ever. Neither had ever forgotten what they shared, and when Nate runs into Kinley again he is very interested in picking up where they left off.

I liked both Kinley and Nate, though there were times I wanted to smack them both. Three years earlier, both had been party animals, just looking for a good time. But when she got pregnant, Kinley had to grow up fast. She had an amazing amount of strength and determination that got her where she is today. But she also has some insecurities and regrets. She hadn't felt that she was enough to make Nate want to give up his playboy ways, but she has come to regret that she didn't make more of an effort to tell Nate about Penny. But she's also nervous about telling him, afraid of what his reaction might be. Nate is quite the ladies' man. He has no interest in settling down and makes sure the women he's involved with know it. That weekend with Kinley left him feeling a bit guilty, torn between his respect for her father and the attraction he felt for her. Then, once he finds out about Penny, his emotions swing between anger at Kinley and joy at having a daughter.

The development of their relationship was fast and furious. From the moment they met again their chemistry between them was off the charts. It was very easy to fall back into bed together, but Kinley knew she needed to come clean with Nate. Problem was, every time she tried to talk to him, he would distract her. The first time she tried to tell him she was too subtle about it and the information went right over his clueless head. But he did realize that what he felt for her was more than what he'd felt for any other woman, and that he'd need to get to know her child too. There was an amusing scene where he's asking advice from his friends about how to treat kids. He listens well, and his evening with Kinley and Penny is great. It was really sweet to see the way he and Penny connected.

His reaction to her news is everything she feared, and she has to find a way to calm his anger so they can work together. There is also the problem of dealing with their families, who have expectations about what they should do, but Kinley doesn't want to marry without love. I loved Kinley's father's reaction, as Nate certainly deserved it. But when a medical crisis brings the confrontation to a sudden end, Nate suddenly realizes just how much Kinley has had to deal with alone. I loved seeing the changes that he went through as the playboy finally grew up. All he needed to do was find a way to show her that they belonged together as a family. He came through in a truly sweet and romantic way.

I enjoyed the secondary characters also. Nate's family was great, and I enjoyed seeing the planning for Hunter and Ferrin's wedding. His brother Derek was interesting, too, extremely intelligent and very sensitive. I'm looking forward to his story. I loved little Penny, who was so much fun with her horse crazy antics and easy acceptance of Nate. The character who fascinated me the most was Kinley's nanny Pippa. I'd love to see more of her and her story.

Quick-Draw Cowboy - Joanna Wayne (HI #1708 - May 2017)

Series: Kavanaughs (Book 2)

This cowboy is a sure shot to the heart…

Riley Lawrence is an expert at moving on and not risking his heart. Helping pastry chef Dani Boatman is a onetime deal -- she's got her hands full giving her orphaned niece a stable home. But someone with a vicious grudge has a target on the curvaceous redhead's back. And destroying her life is just the start…

Dani doesn't trust easy -- a lesson she learned the hard way. This freewheeling cowboy with an irresistible grin insists on putting himself between her and harm's way. But the desire getting hotter between them can't promise anything more than heartbreak. And with unsuspected danger also closing in, Dani and Riley's one chance for love could prove forever lethal.

Good book. Dani is relatively new to Winding Creek, but has quickly made a place for herself. She owns a bakery and is legal guardian to her niece, Constance. She is beautiful, independent, determined to give Constance a better life than she'd had before. She is friends with Grace, who is about to marry Pierce Lawrence.

Riley is one of Pierce's brothers and has arrived in town for Pierce's wedding. Riley is a wandering ranch hand who is best known for not staying in one place for very long. Riley is good-looking, charming, and chivalrous.

The story begins with Dani being threatened by her sister's ex, who claims to be Constance's father. He's threatening to sue for custody if Dani doesn't turn over half the insurance settlement from Amber's death. The money is tied up in a trust, so Dani couldn't do it even if she wanted to. But James's threats are frightening anyway, and Dani will do what she must to protect her niece.

Riley arrives in town and stops by Dani's bakery for coffee. He steps in to help when she's overwhelmed by customers. He's quite taken by her and looks forward to seeing more of her at the wedding. I loved seeing their quick connection and the attraction that flares between them. When Dani's bakery is vandalized, Riley insists on helping with the cleanup and staying to give her peace of mind. He senses that she isn't being completely honest about what is going on and is determined to be there for her.

I liked seeing the relationship develop between them. Dani knows Riley's reputation, but is determined to enjoy his company while she can. It isn't long before his care for her and for Constance works its way into her heart. Riley finds himself less and less interested in moving on, and more interested in spending time with Dani. I really enjoyed seeing him bring some fun into their lives and how they brought a feeling of home into his. The ending was really sweet and romantic with the surprise that Riley had for Dani.

The suspense of the story was good, The main theme was the threat against Dani. James was definitely a nasty piece of work who obviously cared more for getting some easy money than what was best for Constance. What he did to Dani's bakery increased the tension she was under, as she wondered what would happen next. I liked that she was also proactive in taking steps to find out if he was truly the father. There's also a twist where others get involved in his scheme, increasing the danger Dani is in. The final confrontation was intense with some surprising information coming out of it regarding an event from the previous book.

I really liked the relationship between the three Lawrence brothers. Each had coped with their childhood trauma a different way, but their ties have never been broken. I also loved the way that they all had a part in helping Dani.

Alpha Bravo SEAL - Carol Ericson (HI #1710 - May 2017)

Series: Red White and Built (Book 2)

Navy SEAL Protector

When members of her film crew start being killed off, documentarian Nicole Hastings is relieved to find the man following her is Slade Gallagher -- a navy SEAL sniper who once saved Nicole from Somali kidnappers. Now he's shadowing her to trap the terrorists behind the killings and find out just what they want.

Nicole couldn't be more different from the women Slade usually falls for. But he quickly learns that there's a lot more to this socialite than he first thought. And as Slade's admiration for her courage and resilience grows, so does his yearning. Protecting Nicole is an assignment, but can he let her go when it's all over?

Good book. Nicole is a documentary filmmaker. She and her film crew had been captured by Somali pirates, then rescued by a group of Navy SEALs. Eighteen months later, the other members of her crew are dying under mysterious circumstances and Nicole suspects something is wrong.

One of those SEALs was Slade. He had been fascinated by her at the time, intrigued by a wealthy woman that doesn't act like the ones he's used to. Then he's assigned to protect her again, this time from deadly terrorists who are after her.

I liked both Nicole and Slade. Both have come from wealthy, privileged backgrounds, but prefer to make their own way in the world. Thanks to her work in frequently hazardous areas, Nicole is not easily flustered or frightened. She is also smart, feisty, and determined. Slade is smart, determined and protective. He has been burned pretty well by his few relationships with wealthy women and tends to steer clear of them now. I enjoyed seeing the development of their relationship. First up is the attraction between them, which simmers under the surface from the start. Neither had been able to forget the other, even though they hadn't actually met. Second was the connection between them that quickly became a friendship, then more. I liked that Nicole was strong and independent, but could lean on Slade when she needed to. I also loved that while Slade was protective, he trusted Nicole to know what she could handle. I liked how they came together at the end, with no angst or trouble, just an admission that they want to see where the relationship goes.

The suspense of the book was really good. We quickly learn that the bad guys are after some film footage, though not exactly why. They are ruthless and have no problem with leaving a high body count. Slade and Nicole follow the leads to track down the footage, but the bad guys are never far away. The intensity increases when they find the film, but Nicole is taken. The final confrontation is exciting, though doesn't go quite like I expected, but it certainly brings things into a nice neat circle, with just one loose thread. I can't wait to read the next one.

My only real quibble is with the cover of the book. It takes place almost entirely in New York City, so the African cover is a bit misleading.

Locked, Loaded and SEALed - Carol Ericson (HI #1703 - Apr 2017)

Series: Red, White and Built (Book 1)

A navy SEAL sniper turned bodyguard, he'll protect his target…at any cost…

The SEAL's secret assignment had been to protect a certain important doctor. But when the man is murdered, Austin Foley's mission changes. The navy sniper must now protect the doctor's protégé, the irresistible Sophia Grant, at any cost. For Sophia has information that could endanger the entire country. There's only one problem: Sophia has no idea what those secrets are.

With lethal terrorists on their heels, Austin and Sophia must embark on a covert operation. But it will mean placing Sophia even more in harm's way -- a sacrifice not even the steel-hearted SEAL may be able to make.

Good start to the new series, with plenty of action and romance. Sophia is the assistant to a doctor in Boston when she discovers him dead in his office and the office ransacked. Devastated by the loss of a man she thought of as a father, she is more than willing to help Austin find out who did it. Austin is a navy SEAL who had been sent to protect Dr. Fazal, but arrived too late. Instead he discovers Sophia, who may have information that the killers want, so he steps in to protect her. Unfortunately, Sophia has no idea what they are looking for, which puts she and Austin in the position of trying to figure it out and stay alive at the same time.

I liked Sophia. She is feisty and independent. Growing up in the foster system, daughter of substance abusers, she has learned to depend on herself. She's wary of trusting people, but her instincts tell her she can trust Austin. She's also able to think fast and adapt to what happens around her, which comes in handy during the story.

Austin was terrific. He and his team had helped get Fazal out of Pakistan when he was targeted by terrorists. He's not happy that he was too late to save him, and the failure bothers him. Realizing that Sophia is in danger gives him a chance to redeem himself in his eyes. Austin grew up in a large and loving family and demonstrates the gentlemanly manners he was raised with. I loved seeing how kind he was to Sophia and the respect with which he treated her.

I liked seeing the relationship grow between them. There's definitely attraction between them, but there is also genuine liking and respect. It was really sweet to see the way that Austin worried about Sophia, and took care of her. He also wants to be careful not to let his growing feelings distract him from keeping her safe. I liked that Sophia had good insights into Austin and understood his feelings about not saving Fazal. She's also quite sure that once the danger is over, Austin will be gone and she won't see him again. But when the shooting is all over, they realize that they belong together.

The suspense of the story was really good. From the moment Sophia discovers Fazal's body the amount of danger steadily increases. There is the question of what is the information they think she has? Does it have something to do with Fazal's secretive patient? Austin is pretty sure Fazal was targeted because of his connection to Austin and his SEAL team, but who is behind it? I enjoyed seeing Sophia become just as involved in the hunt as Austin is, in spite of his attempts to keep her safe. I was pretty sure I knew where the hidden information was, and turned out to be right. I was a bit more surprised by the identity of one of the bad guys, though it made sense once I knew. The final confrontation was intense, and I really liked Sophia's calm under fire reactions. I have a feeling that the pursuit of the main antagonist is going to be a theme throughout the series and I'm looking forward to seeing how it plays out.