Throwback Thrusday Book Club Picks....

Howdy, readers! Welcome to the first Throwback Thursday Book Club. In case you missed my explanation last week, here’s how it works: every other Thursday, I’ll be recommending a “throwback” read—and by “throwback” I mean something published more than five years ago. There are all kinds of great titles out there waiting for readers to discover them and they aren’t all new. Some of my favorite reads definitely qualify for “throwback” status. I hope you find something you like, Cozies! Because today is the first Thursday book club post, I’ve chosen three “oldies.” Trust me, they’re goodies ;)

Title: The Heart of Devin MacKade

Author: Nora Roberts

Genre: Contemporary Romance (from Silhouette Intimate Moments)

Originally Published: 1996

Back Cover Blurb: Devin MacKade knew it was his destiny to serve and protect the small town of Antietam, Maryland. And he always suspected his future should have little Cassie Connor in it. After Cassie married the wrong man, Devin tried to convince himself there would be other women, other loves. Now, after Cassie's divorce, Devin can finally follow his heart. But can Cassie follow hers?

Why I Recommend It: I love the MacKade brothers. This book is third in a series of four, but it’s classic Nora. A great romance and, although not a novella, a quick read. I always love going back and cracking this one back open for a quick, satisfying fix. Devin is a memorable hero and his and Cassie’s story is both sweet and sexy!

Amazon Average Rating: 4.7 Stars (I personally give it a solid 5!)

 

Title: Tall, Dark & Cajun

Author: Sandra Hill

Genre: Contemporary Romance (from Grand Central Publishing’s Forever line)

Originally Published: 2003

Back Cover Blurb: Rachel Fortier, a thirty-something home design consultant, has had it with her fiancé. It's bad enough that he gave her a Thighmaster for Valentine's Day and a Butt Buster for her birthday, and that their seven-year engagement has no end in sight. But she just learned that he's had a vasectomy! Rachel packs up and heads south to meet her great-aunt Gizelle for the first time and take a few days to regroup. She imagines a Grandma Walton living in a picturesque house surrounded by wondrous nature. What she finds is a cabin on stilts deep in the bayous, with alligators and snakes the size of telephone poles. As for Aunt Gizelle, she's a former taxidermist who can outcreep Hannibal Lechter any day of the week.

And if that isn't enough to make a girl turn around and head right back to her ex, Gizelle is feuding with a Cajun bad boy -Remy LeDeux, a helicopter pilot and Air Force vet whose face is scarred from battle. Rene wants to buy a piece of property from Gizelle, but the feisty senior makes it clear she wants nothing to do with any LeDeux. But the moment Remy sees Rachel getting out of a red truck, it's love at first sight for the long-time bachelor, despite all the turmoil she brings into his life, with her ideas of Feng Shui-ing his houseboat and her ex chasing after her, not to mention her great-aunt threatening to shoot his heinie. But getting Rachel to say "I do" is worth it. After all, he's never met a woman before who looks at him like he's a Whitmans Sampler box and she's a chocoholic.

Why I Recommend It: I recently discovered Sandra Hill and her rip-roarin’ Cajun series. I’m sorry it took me this long. This happens to be the second book in Hill's Cajun set. The downhome, Louisiana bayou backdrop and Cajun culture is one of my favorite things about the story. However, it’s Hill’s voice and seam-splitting humor as well as the pace of the story that won me over. I was little more than midway through the book before I went out and bought the first book in the series and ear-marked other Sandra Hill titles on my auto-buy list. If you need a pick-me-up, this book’s for you!

Amazon Average Rating: 4.5 Stars (I give it 4)

 

Title: Homespun Bride

Author: Jillian Hart

Genre: Historical Inspirational Romance (from Harlequin’s Love Inspired Historicals)

Originally Published: 2008

Back Cover Blurb: Montana Territory in 1883 was a dangerous place—especially for a blind woman struggling to make her way through an early winter snowstorm. Undaunted, Noelle Kramer fought to remain independent. But then a runaway horse nearly plunged her into a rushing, ice-choked river, before a stranger's strong, sure hand saved her from certain death.

And yet this was no stranger. Though she could not know it, her rescuer was rancher Thad McKaslin, the man who had once loved her more than life itself. Losing her had shaken all his most deeply held beliefs. Now he wondered if the return of this strong woman was a sign that somehow he could find his way home.

Why I Recommend It: I don’t read a lot of inspirationals and, even you aren’t a fan, trust me, this one is a memorable read. I’ve always been a sucker for a handicapped protagonist. Add in the western setting and, needless to say, a rancher hero.... It’s no wonder I bought this one in the first place. However, this is a stand-out title is a treat for those who enjoy the occasional sweet romance as well as those who love inspirational romance against the historical backdrop of the American West.  

Amazon Average Rating: 4 Stars (I give it 5)

 

So that’s it for this week’s Throwback Thursday Book Club picks! Come back two weeks from now for another great throwback recommendation. Oh, and don’t forget to tune in on Sunday to get a Mardi Gras recap as well as details for the first book bundle giveaway of the year to celebrate Valentine’s week!

I’d like to extend an invitation to readers who have throwback recommendations of their own. If you have a “throwback” book in mind that you would like others to know about, feel free to message me via email at amber@amberleighwilliams.com and I’ll be happy to include it and your name in the next Throwback Thursday post!

I'll leave you with one last treat in honor of Throwback Thursday. This one's from the '80's. Without a doubt, an oldie. This was long before my family moved to the Gulf Coast or the Mobile Bay, but here I am on a visit to the hometown of my heart as well as quite a few of my characters, Fairhope....

 

1st Quarter Recommended Reads

It's that time of the year again, Cozies! I've compiled my list of 1st Quarter Recommended Reads. It's sad how behind I am on some of my TBR. Please keep in mind that not all of these books were published in 2011. Most, I think, were published in 2010 (2009 at the earliest). I love, though, when reviewers go back and feature books that have been published in the past. In fact, that's how I discovered one of my favorite Regency romance authors, Christine Wells!

Title: Marked Author: Elisabeth Naughton Genre: Paranormal Romance Review: 4/5 - I love discovering new voices in paranormal romance, especially those who take the world we know and give it an intriguing world within our own. This is the case with Naughton's Marked. Another thing I loved about this book was its mythological overtones. The Eternal Guardians and their people are descendants of Greek gods. The Greek references made a mythology geek like me squee. And of course, the romance between the guardian, Theron, and his "supposedly" human mate, Casey, was spot on. I can't wait for the third book in the series, which features the guardian, Demetrius.

Title: The Irish Warrior Author: Kris Kennedy Genre: Historical Romance Review: LOVE! - Sorry, but it's hard to find a better voice in historical romance than medieval romance author Kris Kennedy. Loved her debut novel, The Conqueror. Despite my high expectations, she didn't disappoint in The Irish Warrior. I think the title character, Finian, is probably one of the best historical romance heroes I've had the pleasure of reading in some time. And heroine, Senna, doesn't disappoint either. Even if you don't read much of the medieval period, if you're a fan of historical romance you must read at least one book by Kris Kennedy!

Title: Covet Author: J.R. Ward Genre: Paranormal Romance Review: 4/5 - Anything by J.R. Ward is on my must-read list, but I was a little cautious about her new Fallen Angels series and some iffy reviews for Covet. Despite this, I enjoyed the book. As much as I love and adore the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, it was nice to take a break outside that world with Ward's awesome paranormal voice. Although Jim isn't the romantic hero of the book, he is a central character and he and his angel friends are my favorite so far. I have to warn you though, Covet is even more dark and scary than the BDB books. Still, I look forward to reading the next in this series, Crave.

Title: Deadly Fear Author: Cynthia Eden Genre: Romantic Suspense Review: 5/5 - I discovered the romance genre through romantic suspense so it's been a little weird over the past few years. My romantic suspense TBR has been pretty sparse. I have no idea why. Especially now that I've had a chance to read the first book in Eden's Deadly series, Deadly Fear. My love for romantic suspense has definitely been rekindled. All of the books on Eden's booklist feature things that go bump in the night. Deadly Fear is no exception. In fact, this novel's heart-tripping pace and freaky villain kept me reading into the early morning. My favorite element though, is the hero Luke's feelings for heroine Monica. Monica, who comes from a dark and harrowing past, might be one of the strongest heroines I have ever read. If you don't mind jumping at small noises while you're reading RS, read Deadly Fear! (Side Note: Deadly has just been nominated for a RITA! Congrats, Cynthia!!!)

Title: Happy Ever After Author: Nora Roberts Genre: Contemporary Romance Review: 4/5 - Other than the usual batch of lovable characters, Nora's Bride Quartet series started out a little lackluster for me. Book three finally turned things around for me, enough for me a await the final book, Parker's, with excitement. I liked streamlined Parker and her near to OCD tendencies from book one. She's a perfectionist you can definitely learn to love. It didn't take me long to fall in love with Harley-riding hero, Mal, either. The series' completion is a satisfying one. If you're a Nora fan, I recommend Parker and the gang :)

Title: Haunting Beauty Author: Erin Quinn Genre: Paranormal Romance Review: 5/5 - Light paranormal is something you don't see a lot of now but Erin Quinn writes it with some serious flair! I'm a fan of the Irish setting and Celtic characters so this book was a double win all around for me. Quinn's Irish setting is fluid and lush as is her voice and storytelling ability. The romance between hero, Sean, and heroine, Danni, is heartbreaking in its sweet intensity. This book packs plenty of heat nonetheless and it left me wanting to rush off to the bookstore to buy the second book in this series right away. Quinn's imagination is one I will be revisiting soon!

Title: Strangers in Death Author: J.D. Robb Genre: Futuristic Romance Review: 4/5 - I'm so far behind in Nora's In Death series. And why oh why? Eve and Roarke set a romantic precedent above all others and this addition was no exception. A rarity for a Eve Dallas viewpoint, our heroine knows who the culprit is early on and from there it's a pretty awesome game of cat and mouse with the usual suspects assisting her in her quest to unveil the killer. Roarke, Peabody, McNabb, Feeney, Mira, and Summerset feel almost more family to me than they do to Eve. And did I mention Roarke? Sorry, can't seem to do that enough. Another excellent saga in the Eve/Roarke storyline.

Next quarter, I'll be reviewing J.R. Ward's latest Black Dagger Brotherhood book, Lover Unleashed, and the first book of Larissa Ione's Lords of Deliverance series (I'm told there's must-read upside down tree sex involved so, trust me, it's next on my TBR) as well as another great Ann Aguirre book and more!

Historical Recommended Reads

Hi Cozies! I've decided to do two Recommended Reads posts for the third quarter of 2010 because it seems I've read quite a bit in the last three months. Quite a few books wound up on my keeper shelf and to avoid a post that just keeps going and going, I'm doing historicals today and highlighting contemporaries and paranormals on the 16th. Keep in mind that not all these books were published this year. I believe strongly in trying both recent titles and not-so-recent titles. Most titles listed today were reviewed for The Season. (Note: Books reviewed for The Season are ranked on a scale of 1-10 while personal reviews are ranked on a 1-5 scale.)



Devil's Highlander by Veronica Wolff (My Review: LOVE) - This book begins a new saga, Clan MacAlpin, for author Veronica Wolff. And an exciting series launch it is! From the first page to the last, I was completely swept away by Devil's Highlander and enjoyed every moment lost in Cormac and Marjorie’s tale. I felt that it is also a unique tale, a departure from the usual Highlander romance setting and plotline. Amidst the well-researched streets and docks of Aberdeen, the book takes on weighty issues like human bondage and child labor as well as explores the depths to which guilt and blame can destroy lives. I look forward to the next story in the Clan MacAlpin saga. Meanwhile, Devil’s Highlander has all the right ingredients for a must-read historical romance.... (Read the full review at The Season)

Never A Bride by Amelia Grey (My Review: 8/10) - Clever characters, smooth prose, and a fluid pace make Amelia Grey’s Never A Bride an enjoyable read. This book is both romance and mystery as the heroine, Mirabella Whittingham, risks her reputation to find the scoundrel who led her family’s ward, Sarah, to an untimely death. To do so, she must kiss every titled bachelor who fits the description Sarah left behind of her “Prince Charming.” Conflict ensues when the fiancé who abandoned Mirabella for America returns. Grey’s voice and writing style are on par with Julia Quinn’s. My only issue with it is the tendency to repeat information the reader already knows. Her love of the Regency time period radiates from the pages of this book. It’s everything I love about romance in Regency times and I highly recommend it to fellow lovers of the genre.... (Read the full review at The Season)

All Night with a Rogue by Alexandra Hawkins (My Review: 5/5) - I read this first book in the Lords of Vice series after the second, Till Dawn with the Devil (below). Although both books are standout Regency romances, the Lords of Vice debut is superb! I enjoyed every moment with both the hero, an unrepentent rake, and the heroine. I've mentioned before that it's hard to find a romance where I enjoy the main characters in equal measure. I thought the villains of this book were also well-written.

Till Dawn with the Devil by Alexandra Hawkins (My Review: 8/10) -

This is a page-turning read that turns out a most unexpected villain. Still, the story resolved itself quite nicely and I was satisfied with the outcome. There is no doubt that Alexandra Hawkins is making a splash in historical romance and fans of the genre who haven’t read the Lords of Vice series should sit up and take notice. These men are downright delicious. I haven’t been this excited about Regency heroes in some time. They are the ultimate bad boys of the ton, rogues and scoundrels to the last, but fresh and addictive, adding their own brand of devilry to the Regency scene. I cannot wait for more in this series and have already scoped out the next title, due out early next year.... (Read the full review at The Season)

Something About Her by Jeannie Ruesch (My Review: 4/5) - I was eager to read this author's debut because it was presented so well in all the advertising I saw on it. The story was not without a few issues, but overall I had fun reading this Regency. Ruesch's voice flows well and is almost light-hearted. I liked the heroine and learned to love the hero. There are several sub-plots and villains, but they are all tied up in the end. The prose is smart and polished, but it was the ending that really got me on an emotional level. I look forward to seeing Jeannie's Ruesch's future works!

Scandalous by Candace Camp (My Review: 6.5/10) - Within the first few pages, this book didn't waste any time sweeping me along for the ride. In Scandalous, the reader gets a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Hamilton family and the mystery of John Wolfe's identity. The book expands on that, weaving the motivations and colorful personalities of neighbors and friends into the fabric of the story and its suspenseful elements. Despite a few story issues, it isn't hard at all to imagine why Candace Camp is a historical favorite. Her writing is exquisite, the work of a consummate professional. Scandalous is written in so well a hand and so well-paced I was almost surprised to find myself flipping pages so fast. Suffice it to say, I could hardly put this book down once I became immersed in the story. The sub-plots and arcs were no doubt a complex balancing act, but Camp fashions it all together beautifully, crafting this suspenseful historical with finesse.

My Life in France by Julia Child and Alex Prud'homme (My Review: 5/5) - I always like to toss in a little non-fiction, just to mix things up every quarter. After seeing Julie & Julia this past spring, I couldn't help but pick up Julia Child's memoirs. I knew it would be a treat, but it went so much further than I thought in terms of depth of emotion and political overview. I loved this book mostly because Julia Child wasn't just an innovative chef - she was also a highly disciplined writer. I could not put this book down once it started and I didn't want it to end. It's one of the best memoirs I've read in some time. The most fascinating thing about it was the glimpse into post-war France. It wasn't just the food that left me hungry at the end of of every page; it was the colorful descriptions of Paris and the French countryside.

Be sure to check out The Season for upcoming fourth quarter historical romance reviews....

Stay tuned for more third quarter recommended reads later this week! And readers, I'd love to hear your recommended reads from July, August, and September!

Recommended Reads

The second quarter of 2010 has come to a close and, true to Cozy tradition, following is my list of recommended reads. (Not all the titles that follow were released during the 2nd quarter of this year.)



A Hint of Wicked by Jennifer Haymore (My Review: 4/5) - When I first discovered that this book had two heroes, I thought it risky on the author's part. And when I sympathetized with both heroes, Tristan and Garrett, I wasn't sure that Haymore could resolve the heroine's dilemna of choosing between these two worthy men. It was the resolution, however, that I loved most about this book. If you're looking for something different in historical romance, I recommend A Hint of Wicked. I can't wait to read the sequel, A Touch of Scandal.





Wicked Little Game by Christine Wells (My Review: LOVE) - Another risky premise - a married woman accepts an indecent offer from a dashing marquis. I picked this one up based on the reviews. This book is now one my favorite historicals and Christine Wells is now on my auto-buy list. Wicked Little Game has everything - supsense, murder, intrigue, and sensuality. I can't wait to read it again!







Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts (My Review: 4/5) - Still struggling to find good contemporary romance these days. The one that I didn't put down at any point was the latest from Nora. Though I am a Nora fan, I wasn't as hyped up about this series due to the general meh I felt after reading the first two books in the Bridal Quartet (Vision in White & Bed of Roses). But this one centered around Laurel, the baker, and Delaney Brown was kind of addictive and I wound up enjoying it thoroughly. Already anticipating the final book in this series, Happy Ever After - due out in November.





Dawnkeepers by Jessica Andersen (My Review: 5/5) - The J.R. Ward cover quote sold me on the Final Prophecy series, but Andersen's books stand on their own. I love everything about this series. It's fantasy elements are unmatched and you can tell the author has a passion for the subject matter because it is so well-researched. I learn a lot about the ancient Mayan while getting an edge-of-the-seat read. I liked Book II in this series marginally better than the first, Nightkeepers. It packed the same heat, but there was something so satisfyingly romantic about Nate and Alexis, plus lots of great internal conflict between them.




Lover Mine by J.R. Ward (My Review: LOVE) - You knew it was coming. Who loves John Matthew? Amber loves John Matthew! This book is everything I thought it was going to be and more. I didn't expect it to be as romantic as it was since both the protagonists are, in essence, assassins. If you love the Black Dagger Brotherhood, you will love this book as much as I did. Definitely a re-read and maybe one of my top three favorite romances to date. (Uh huh - it was THAT good!)




Following are books I have reviewed for The Season, click on the title links to read the full review and book snippets....


Her Captain Dares All by Eliza Knight (My Review: 6/10) - Her Captain Dares All is Book 3 in Eliza Knight’s Men of the Sea series. Characters from previous titles in the series are mentioned, but reading order does not necessarily have to be chronological for each to be enjoyable. This book surprised me after a rough start. Once together, Lady Tessa Woodward and Captain Jeremy Williams enchant. As soon as they sail off from France to England, this story begins to read like the kind many romance readers first fell in love with; love on the high seas. I almost wish Tessa and Jeremy could have spent more time in the close confines on his ship, The Conqueror. Knight has a deft hand at building sensuality in subtle but no less satisfying strokes.... (read more at The Season)

The Summer of You by Kate Noble (My Review: 7.5/10) - Despite the author’s delightful voice, this Regency started out a tad slow for me, largely because it seemed to take some time for the heroine, Lady Jane Cummings, and the hero, Byrne Worth, to come together. The story begins in London with the return of Jane’s brother, Jason, from a year-long European tour. The declining health of their father, the Duke of Rayne, forces them to their Lake District cottage on Merrymere Lake and the charming village of Reston. Jane concerned me throughout the first few chapters due to her superior attitude toward the people of the country and her great unwillingness to leave the frivolity of London and all its distractions from her responsibility to her ailing father. But once she began to fall in love with the idyll country setting again, I began to warm up to her... (read more at The Season)

Sweetest Little Sin by Christine Wells (My Review: 7/10) - I looked forward to reading the sequel to Christine Wells’ Wicked Little Game. Though Wells had set the bar high, I was not disappointed by Sweetest Little Sin. Everything I loved about the prequel to this story is carried over into Sweetest Little Sin—suspense, intrigue, danger, sizzling sensuality and, to my delight, the mysterious character of the Marquis of Jardine... (read more at The Season)






Be sure to check The Season in August and September for reviews for these titles, one of which stars a "Hero To Die For" and is a Top Pick!














And this completes my list of recommended reads for the 2nd quarter! Readers, I'd love to hear your favorites. Meanwhile, here's a list of 3rd quarter titles I can't wait to get my hands on....


Swept Away by a Kiss by Katharine Ashe
July 27, 2010













Sin Undone by Larissa Ione
August 24, 2010












An Unforgettable Lady by Jessica Bird
July 7, 2010













Lie With Me by Stephanie Tyler
October 26, 2010

THINGS MEANT TO BE w/ Donna Marie Rogers

Today I welcome a dear friend to Cozy, author Donna Marie Rogers! Her contemporary romance, Meant To Be, is on my Recommended Reads list. Stay tuned for an excerpt and a chance to win...

Still very much on my mind, on most people's minds, is the devastation in the Gulf Coast. Concerns are both environmental and economic. If marine life dies, the consequences on the fishing industry will be unimaginable. Not to mention the fear that no one will want to buy products from contaminated water anyway. Tourism officials worry that vacationers won't want to visit oil-tainted beaches; environmentalists are concerned how the oil will affect the birds, coral and mammals in and around the Gulf. My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone personally effected by this unthinkable disaster.

As a friend of mine said yesterday, whether your children are of the two-legged or four-legged variety, I hope all you mommies out there had a nice Mother's Day!

Happy Birthday Week, Amber! It's always a pleasure to guest blog at The Cozy Page. Amber is not only a great friend, but an amazing author as well. And since she included Meant To Be in her April 10th blog, Recommended Reads, I thought I'd dig through the book and pull out a brand new excerpt. Meant To Be placed second in the 2010 NEC Bean Pot Awards, and is a finalist in the 2010 WisRWA Write Touch Awards. Hope you enjoy it!

She's running from her past, he's unsure about his future. Maybe together they can figure out what was Meant To Be.

Officer Garrett Jamison is at the lowest point in his life. He’s lost faith in his ability as a police officer after unwittingly setting his sister up with a dirty cop. Garrett ended up getting shot, and his sister's son kidnapped right out of his own bed. He takes a leave from the force, in need of some time to make a decision about his future. Too bad he can't get a decent night's sleep thanks to his sexy new neighbor and her howling cat.

Jessica McGovern moves halfway across the country to start a new life in Green Bay, Wisconsin after her ex-husband is convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of their young son. Her new neighbor is as infuriating as he is handsome, but when her ex is released from prison early and shows up in town, Jessica discovers she's never needed anyone more...

Excerpt:

"Remember, you promised to be good," Garrett reminded his nephew as he pulled open the door to the restaurant. "Any sass-mouth and I'll take you right home. I mean it."

Ethan frowned, but wisely nodded his head. He stomped through the door and stood next to the PLEASE WAIT TO BE SEATED sign. Garrett couldn't help but grin. Even annoyed, Ethan had better self-control than his uncle.

The hostess, a busty, middle-aged woman with a humongous salt-and-pepper beehive hairdo, walked up and winked at Ethan. "Hey, good-lookin', would you like a table or a booth?" She reached down and grabbed a menu, placemats, and a few crayons.

"We'll take a booth," Garrett said. "In Jessica's section, if that's all right."

She looked him up and down and smiled. "She has a booth open in the corner. Follow me."

Ethan dragged his feet the entire way, then climbed in and crossed his arms, his little face screwed up in a mutinous scowl. Garrett let out a resigned sigh. The hostess handed Garrett the menu, set down the paper placemats, and dropped the crayons in front of Ethan. "Jessica will be with you in just a minute."

"I ain't no baby," Ethan muttered as soon as she walked away.

"You're seven, sport. There's nothing babyish about coloring when you're seven." Garrett flipped open his menu, hoping a decent meal might sweeten Ethan's disposition. Hell, who was he kidding? The only cure for his nephew's foul mood would be if Jessica disappeared from the planet. And that would surely put Garrett in a foul mood. The thought of never seeing her again was enough to make his blood run cold. Damn, when did he become so attached?

He blew out a frustrated breath and glanced over the menu. "Hey, they have chicken quesadilla appetizers. Want to split an order?"

Ethan shrugged. "I s'pose." He picked up one of the crayons and started doodling.

Garrett felt a glimmer of hope. He certainly didn't need the little squirt's permission to date Jessica, but it would be nice if he could at least be civil to her.

"Well, I didn't expect to see you two here," Jessica said as she approached the table.

Garrett had to clear his suddenly dry throat. Jesus, what in the world was wrong with him? It hadn't been that long since he'd gotten laid. He shrugged. "We have to eat lunch, and this is as good a place as any." Had that sounded nonchalant enough?

"So what can I get you?" She pulled the pad and pen from her pocket before craning her neck to see what Ethan was drawing. "Wow, that's amazing. A dog?"

Ethan looked up with utter disdain. "It's a horse. Don't you know anything?"

Garrett's face grew hot with embarrassment. He slapped his menu shut and yanked the crayon from Ethan's grasp. "That's it, sport, I warned you. No lunch and no movies tonight. You can sit in your room and pout until you learn how to treat people with respect." His gaze moved to Jessica. Jesus, what she must think. "I'm sorry. I honestly thought his manners would've improved by now."

Ethan's eyes grew red and his chin quivered. "But it's a horse! Anyone can see that!"

Garrett had had enough. He started to push himself to his feet when Jessica laid a placating hand on his forearm.

"Please, Ethan's right. Anyone can see it's a horse. I don't know what I was thinking." She then said to Ethan, "You know, we make one of the best cheeseburgers in the city, and it comes with a big plateful of curly fries. And if you finish your food, you get a free sundae. What do you think? Are you up for it?"

Ethan shrugged a shoulder, but remained silent.

"If you don't think you can do it..." Jessica added, letting her words trail off as if in silent dare.

Garrett watched in wonder as most of the hostility faded from Ethan's eyes. The thrill of possible victory even brought a smug grin to the little shit's face. A free sundae? There wasn't much Ethan wouldn't do for that.

"Well, sport, it's up to you. Do we stay and have one of the best cheeseburgers in the city, or go home for some of Uncle Luke's Spam casserole?"

Ethan shivered in revulsion. Garrett and Jessica both laughed.

"I guess that settles it," Garrett said. "And I think I'd like to try that challenge as well." He handed Jessica both menus as he mouthed the word "thanks".

She winked at him. "Okay, so that's two cheeseburger challenges. What can I get you to drink?"

Ethan glanced at Garrett who nodded. Ethan's eyes lit up. "A large orange soda. And no onions on my cheeseburger."

"Make it two sodas." Garrett leaned back and laid his arm along the back of the booth. "And no onions on mine either."

Jessica rolled her eyes, and then softened the blow with another wink.

Thanks again for having me, Amber! And thank you to everyone who stopped by! For a chance to win an e-copy of Meant To Be simply leave me a comment...about anything you'd like. ;-)

Thank you, Donna, for sharing with us today! And Cozies, this is one read you don't want to miss out on!

Recommended Reads

The first quarter of 2010 is over. Can you believe it? Due to computer problems and health issues, I’ve had a lot of downtime to spend with my TBR pile. Here are some of the reads I found particularly noteworthy:

First off, I read my first Laura Kinsale romance, Lessons in French, for The Season. To read my review, visit The Season blog!

Grimspace by Ann Aguirre (My Review: LOVE) - I actually read this book late last year, but I don’t think I ever really gushed over how much I heart this story. Before Grimspace, I’d never tried sci-fi. Which is pretty odd considering my obsession with Han Solo. If you’re like me and you want to give the genre a try, Grimspace is the place to start. It isn’t a mainstream romance. It’s shelves in the sci-fi/fantasy section, but it does have romantic elements. I haven’t been this excited about a heroine since Eve Dallas. I’m a big fan of flawed protagonists and Sirantha Jax is the picture of incredible inner strength with a streak of vulnerability. (You might say she’s the Eve Dallas of futuristic space travel…beyond 2060, that is.) Her relationship with March is beautifully portrayed. I loved the political aspects of futuristic space travel and other worlds. Not to mention Sirantha’s “J gene,” which allows her to “jump” spaceships through “grimspace.” I can’t wait to read the next book in this series, Wanderlust, which is supposed to be fantastic!

Ecstasy Unveiled by Larissa Ione (My Review: 5/5) - I’m a fan of the Demonica books so I was first in line for this baby, the 4th installment in Larissa Ione’s series, in January. Finally in March I finished my 3rd paranormal manuscript and as a reward I picked up Ecstasy. Ahhhh. There’s just something about a Larissa Ione book. From the first chapter, her voice and character just take charge of your imagination and the story doesn’t let you go until the big, satisfying finish. I loved the hero, Lore, a relatively new face in the series. In this book, readers will also get acquainted with Sin who, other than Shade, might be my favorite character. With many romance series, the sequels show glimpses of former hero/heroines lives, continuing their HEA’s with children and picket fences and whatnot. Very fluffy stuff that oftentimes isn’t necessary. What Ione does—very similar to my favorite paranormal author, J.R. Ward—is keep building those secondary characters. They still have problems to solve which fuels the central storyline instead of taking over it. As a writer, it isn’t an easy thing to do, but Ione does this beautifully. More than anything, I loved revisiting Eidolon, Shade, and – in particular – Wraith. She also set up the final installment in the series, Sin's book, which I will pre-order from Amazon. If you’re a fan of dark paranormal romance or are WARDen fan, I highly recommend the Demonica series, starting with Eidolon and Tayla in Pleasure Unbound.

Three in Death by J.D. Robb (My Review: 4/5) - Nora Roberts’ J.D. Robb books are a comfort like no other. While I was feeling unwell in March, I also picked up this collection of In Death novellas, Three in Death – featuring Interlude in Death, Midnight in Death, and Haunted In Death. There’s nothing like journeying forward into the familiar world of 2060 NYC. I had already read Midnight but enjoyed the re-read all these years later. *g* Haunted put Eve up against the supernatural, which was interesting. And, of course, there's the almighty Roarke. *sigh* Perfection. *Side Note: Early this year, Roberts’ publisher split the hardback Remember When which featured a story in Roberts’ contemporary style and another in her grittier J.D. Robb voice featuring Eve and Roarke, linked by the same mystery only in different time periods. The titles are now available in mass market paperback. Did it bother anybody else that the title of the J.D. Robb half wasn’t an “In Death” like all other Robb novels and novellas, but called Big Jack instead. Maybe it’s the nitpicky author in me, but you’d think to save fans confusion, they’d give it a consistent title.

Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler (My Review: LOVE) - Catherine Mann is the only military romance author on my auto-buy list. However, when I tackled the first title in Stephanie Tyler’s SEALs trilogy, I was blown away! It’s not just the chiseled, bad-ass alphas that make these books must-reads – it’s the whole package. The heroes are so real, especially Jake in Hard to Hold, which is my new favorite romantic suspense. (It even edged out Nora’s Honest Illusions and Public Secrets…which is saying something!) The heroine deals with the recent and heavy trauma of an Africa kidnapping and physical and sexual abuse. This always a tentative subject for romance novelists, but Stephanie Tyler handles it better than any other author dealing with the same subject I've come across. And did I mention, I LOVE Jake. Every book in this trilogy is wonderful. I can't wait to read more from Stephanie Tyler!

Meant To Be by Donna Marie Rogers (My Review: 5/5) - I didn't think she could top the prequel to this contemporary romance title, There's Only Been You. Donna Marie Rogers never fails to surprise me. In Meant To Be, readers return to the Jamison family, only this time for brother Garrett's story. I love Donna's blue-collar heroes. Garrett is one sexy alpha. Remember I mentioned that banter between the h/h goes a long way toward roping me into the story? Meant To Be has lovable banter in spades! A story where the h/h start out disliking each other is always entertaining. The romance is hot, and the ending is so fitting! The characters are wonderfully layered and Donna's voice makes for a delightful read! *Side Note: Fans of Lori Foster will love this book. She even gave the cover quote!

Lighthouse by Eugenia Price (My Review: 5/5) - I'm a southern history nut so I love a dash of non-fiction every so often. Eugenia Price's St. Simon's Island trilogy is based on real-life events but reads like a southern fiction novel. While rich with well-researched detail, it still entertains! If you love individual and deeply personal portrayals of the people who make up American history, I recommend Lighthouse and the rest the St. Simon's Island trilogy as well as other novels by Eugenia Price.

Redeeming Gabriel by Elizabeth White (My Review: 3.5/5) - White's work is always enriched in the deep south, particularly Mobile, Alabama, which is just across the bay! I love reading up on local history. This inspirational author never disappoints. Not only does she delve into the Civil War era of Mobile history, she digs into the nautical history of the military. I recommend this book for the hero, Gabriel, who is a Union spy posing as a minister, the colorful walk through Civil War Mobile and Baldwin County as well as the well-written conflict between the h/h.

New Spring by Robert Jordan (My Review: 5/5) - Just like sci-fi, I'm new to fantasy. Who better to start with than Robert Jordan? I'm a Tolkien groupie and Jordan builds a world as deeply layered with character and magic as Lord of the Rings without losing the world's originality. This book is the prequel to The Wheel of Time series. Thanks to my sister-in-law, I knew where to start. Now I can't wait to play catch up by diving into the next installment! I am now a Dragonmount follower!


So that's my recommended reads from the first quarter of 2010! If you'd like to see what else I have on my favorites shelf, check out my Shelfari profile! Here's a glimspe of my spring wish list:

Readers, what's on your wish list? Read anything you'd like to recommend? I'm currently opening a Goodreads profile. I love that you can rate novellas there like Blackest Heart not available at Shelfari. What's your virutal shelf preference between these two sites?

And stay tuned: author Genella DeGrey is bringing her book tour here to The Cozy Page on April 13th! There will be prizes! Save the date...