Review: A Yuletide Kiss anthology

 

Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Each story in this anthology takes place in a certain rural tavern during a bad winter storm at Christmas.  I like how all three authors put their own spin on the same scene, yet they wrote it in the view of their own characters.

Sabrina Jeffries is the sole reason why I picked up this anthology. I normally do not read holiday-themed anthologies or stories. However, I am a big fan of the author’s DUKE DYNASTY series.

 

WHEN WE FINALLY KISS GOOD-NIGHT by Sabrina Jeffries 

Konrad Juncker is a well-known playwright. He carries a secret that could blacklist him from the theater community. Bad weather strands Konrad at a secluded inn during Christmas. Fate gives him another chance to make amends to the one woman he never forgot. Can Konrad trust Flora with his biggest secret? Will he find a way to have a future with her?

Flora Younger is a paid companion to a viscountess. She secretly pins reviews on plays for a newspaper. Flora and her employer find themselves stuck at an understaffed inn during the holidays. Even worse, she discovers the blackguard who broke her heart there also. Can Flora trust Konrad with her heart again? Or will she throw caution to the wind to be with him?

Konrad is such a fun and naughty rascal! He made the series enjoyable to read. I like how Konrad never allowed his association with the Duke of Thornstock to turn his head. He enjoyed his brief stint in the limelight; however, a part of him disliked living in a lie. What I adore the most about Konrad is his altruism towards Flora. He did not want to start anything with her because he had no prospects to offer her.

Flora did not disappoint! She cared little about Konrad’s fame. Flora preferred the man beneath the façade. I like Flora’s work relationship with the viscountess. She knows the lady can be candid in her opinions, so she willingly plays mediator on her behalf. What I adore the most about Flora is her thoughtfulness towards the inn’s servants. She refused to subject them to her questionable baking skills, especially during the holidays.

WHEN WE FINALLY KISS GOOD-NIGHT is book 4.5 in Suzanne Enoch’s historical romance series, DUKE DYNASTY. This story is the reason I wanted to read this anthology. I have been intrigued by these two since their interaction in the fourth book, UNDERCOVER DUKE. Now I must get the SEDUCTION ON A SNOWY NIGHT anthology so I can read Heywood’s story.

 

AN UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS GIFT by Madeline Hunter   

Lucas Avonwood is the second son of a viscount. He works as an agent for The Home Office. Lucas follows a lead when he falls victim to bad weather and illness. Lucas comes to and finds himself being cared for by the inn’s attractive proprietress. Does Jenna have ties with Lucas’ suspect? Will that interfere in their budding romance?

Jenna Waverly owns and operates a respectable inn in a remote area. She closes her establishment for Christmas so her employees can enjoy the holidays. Jenna finds her inn bombarded by an assortment of unexpected visitors. She never intended to fall for one of them. Will Jenna give her heart to Lucas?  Or will their time together be a pleasant interlude?

Lucas is such a knight-in-shing armor. He may be a viscount’s son, but he never once put on airs. I like how he does not vocalize his suspicions. Lucas prefers to obtain proof before making accusations. What I adore the most about Lucas is his desire to shield and protect Jenna. He did not want to spoil her Christmas with disappointing news.

Jenna steadily grew on me. I admire her decision to become a business owner. Jenna could have led a modest genteel life. Instead, she chose a path most of her peers would snub. What I like the most about Jenna is her consideration for her employees. She could have kept her inn open, but she closed it so they could spend the holidays with their families.

AN UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS GIFT is a novella that can standalone. I did not sense it belongs to a series, though I could be mistaken. I am familiar with Madeline Hunter’s works. However, it has been years since I have read one.

 

WHEN STRANGERS MEET by Mary Jo Putney 

Daniel Faringdon is a former solider. He returns to England to assume responsibility to the barony he inherited. Daniel is surprised to find a familiar face at an isolated inn during an icy snowstorm. The lady in question claims to be his lawful wife. Daniel proposes they give their marriage a chance. Can Daniel convince Kate away from her suitor? Or will he lose her forever?

Katherine “Kate” Macleod comes from a long line of prosperous Scottish merchants. She takes shelter at a rural inn to escape frigid weather. Kate never imagined she would once again see the solider who saved her. And married her. Now Kate must decide if she wants to stay married to him. Will Kate give Daniel a chance? Who will she choose? Daniel or Edmund?

Daniel is such a wonderful knight-in-tarnished-armor! He is an honorable man who tries to help whomever he can despite their status. I like that Daniel acknowledges and accepts his imperfections. He does not allow his past mistakes to break him. Instead, Daniel learns from them. What I love the most about Daniel is how he openly admires Kate’s eccentricities.  He is not intimidated by Kate’s independence, intelligence or business sense but supports them.

Kate is a stubborn and spunky woman who is comfortable in her own skin. She refuses to bow down to society’s expectations on a woman’s place and duty. I admire Kate’s determination to never be a damsel-in-distress again. She took measures to protect herself. What I like the most about Kate is her kindness to animals. She rescued a cat-in-need and selflessly adopted it.

WHEN STRANGERS MEET is a standalone novella by Mary Jo Putney. As with Madeline Hunter’s novella, I did not get the feeling that this story belonged to a series. I could be mistaken. This is my first time reading the author’s works. I have heard her name before, just never got the chance to try her full-length books.

 

A YULETIDE KISS is a series of sweet and feel-good stories told in three different perspectives. I believe this is the first time I have read an anthology like this. I hope this is a new trend in anthologies because I found it so satisfying.

Review: Jeffe Kennedy's Bright Familiar

 Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Lord Gabriel Phel is a wizard proficient in moon and water magic. He plans to keep his hard-won familiar from the Convocation. However, Gabriel discovers something unsettling about his nature. The two work tirelessly to find their wizard and familiar dynamic. Can Gabriel keep Veronica safe from the Convocation? Will he have to turn into a monster to defeat them?

Lady Veronica “Nic” Elal-Phel has surrendered to the inevitable. She puts all her efforts into re-establishing Gabriel’s house to its formal glory. Nic tries to guide him into understanding and accepting his wizardry nature. However, the Convocation threatens to destroy their hard work. Can Nic convince Gabriel to be the wizard he is meant to be? Or will her efforts be in vain?

Gabriel continues to amaze me. He is a man who is not afraid to be different. I admire how Gabriel balks at becoming like the other Convocation wizards. He refuses to go against his integrity. Gabriel hates the flaws in their society’s mentality that other wizards exploit for their own gain. What I love the most is how Gabriel and Nic’s bonding is not the normal wizard/familiar kind. Its uncharted waters requires them to learn as they go.

Nic has made the most progress. She is the perfect balance for Gabriel. Nic believes in his magical ability when he doubts it. I adore how Nic does not take advantage of Gabriel’s ignorance. She knows that he did not receive the same education she did, so she fills in the gaps in his wizardry education. What I love the most about Nic is how she warms up to Gabriel’s ideology, especially his stance on familiars. She is aware that the Convocation will find it profane; however, that does not stop Nic from influencing the wizards that flock to House Phel to share his ideals.

BRIGHT FAMILIAR is book two in Jeffe Kennedy’s fantasy romance series, BONDS OF MAGIC. I recommend reading the prior book to better understand the world, its magic system, and the characters. This story immediately picks up where DARK WIZARD, book one, leaves off. Gabriel and Nic’s wizard-and-familiar dynamic reminds me of a tamer side of BDSM. I generally steer clear of BDSM-type stories; however, I did not mind so much with this story.

BRIGHT FAMILIAR is a spellbinding tale of two people’s fight to overcome an antiquated society. I cannot wait to see how Gabriel and Nic will tackle the new challenges that await them!

Review: Jill Shalvis' Holiday Ever After anthology

 

Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

All three stories in this anthology are written by Jill Shalvis. Two of the novellas belong to the same series. I am not a fan of holiday-themed stories or anthologies. However, I cannot pass up anything this author writes. I adore the humor she weaves into her storylines.

ONE SNOWY NIGHT

Max Stranton works for an investigation and security firm. He offers Rory a ride to Lake Tahoe.  Max remembers her from their high school days, especially what she did to him. Wintry conditions force the two to face their shared past. Will Max and Rory’s history keep them from being together? Can he forgive her?

Rory Andrews works as a dog groomer. She wants to go home and visit her family for Christmas. Rory reluctantly accepts a ride from Max, a former classmate, and his dog. Their road trip in a bad blizzard allows them to finally air out all their grievances. Will Rory make it to her family before Christmas? Can she gain Max’s forgiveness for her teenage folly?

Max is a sweetheart. He is a man of few words. I like Max’s protectiveness towards Rory. He came to her defense with her stepfather. What I love the most about Max is his thoughtfulness towards others. He willingly helped strangers in their time of need without expecting compensation. Max even tried to help Rory get to her family before Christmas morning.

Rory is a survivor. Her teen years were not kind to her, something I can relate with. I admire Rory’s courage to turn her life around. She tries to make amends for her past deeds. That takes incredible strength to do. What I adore the most about Rory is her interaction and behavior with Carl. She treats the dog as if he belongs to her. It is evident the two are best friends.

ONE SNOWY NIGHT is book 2.5 in Jill Shalvis’ contemporary romance series, HEARTBREAKER BAY. I have only read a few books in this series, something I plan to remedy in the future. Carl, Max’s dog, made the story entertaining. He reminds me of the Doberman I grew up with. So, I have a soft spot for that breed of dog.

 

HOLIDAY WISHES

Sean O’Riley co-owns a pub in San Francisco, California. He arranges a weekend getaway for his brother, his future sister-in-law, and their wedding party. Sean never imagined he would be reunited with Lotti Hartford, his first love. She even refuses to acknowledge him. Bad weather forces them to extend their stay at Lotti’s bed and breakfast. Can Sean convince Lotti to give him another chance? Will he give his brother the wedding he deserves?

Charlotte “Lotti” Hartford runs her family’s bed and breakfast in Napa Valley, California. She discovers that her latest customers include Sean O’Riley, the boy who broke her heart. Lotti refuses to soften her heart to the former bad boy. However, the weather keeps Sean and his party trapped at her B&B. Can Lotti trust Sean with her heart again? Will she ruin their second chance? Can Lotti help Sean pull off an impromptu wedding?

Sean is a doll! He is a reformed bad boy, who is tired of his womanizing ways. I like how Sean wants to right all the wrongs he committed in his youth. He deeply regrets some of his past actions. What I adore the most about Sean is his determination to make certain his brother’s wedding is perfect. It is his way to show Finn his appreciation for all he did for him after their parents died.

Lotti is a woman who is afraid to let people close. She has been hurt too many times. I understand Lotti’s reluctance around Sean. He was responsible for her first heartbreak. He is also the reason for her trust issues. What I love the most about Lotti is her selflessness. She willingly donated her unused wedding gown for Sean’s improvised wedding. Lotti even helped him with it.

HOLIDAY WISHES is book 4.5 in Jill Shalvis’ contemporary romance series, HEARTBREAKER BAY. This story, along with ONE SNOWY NIGHT, can stand alone. There is no on-going plot. Characters from prior books do show up in the story. I love Peaches, Lotti’s pet parrot. He made me laugh!

 

MISTLETOE IN PARADISE

James Webber owns and runs his own expedition company. He also helps at his family’s lumber business. James plans to have a talk with his father on their yearly holiday vacation in the Caribbean. He never anticipated finding Hannah on the boat. The two are forced to confront many things on their boat ride. Can James convince Hannah to give them another try? Or will he let her slip through his fingers again?

Hannah Banfield works as a health care advocate. She dreads her family’s joint Christmas yacht vacation in the Caribbean. Hannah has an ulterior purpose for going this year, a fact that she despises. However, she never expects to see James Webber on her father’s boat. Can Hannah deliver the devastating news she has for her stepfather? Who will she ultimately choose? Jason? Or her job?

James is an adventurous soul. He enjoys traveling and seeing new places. I like how instinctively James knows when Hannah needs a friend. Regardless of their troubles, he always listens to her when she needs to talk. James even defends Hannah against her stepfather. What I adore the most about James is the deathbed promise he made to his late brother. He is doing what Jason wanted him to do: live his own life.

Hannah is a driven woman dedicated to her work. She had a semi-difficult childhood growing up with two clueless and irresponsible parents. I admire Hannah’s thoughtfulness towards her stepfather. She did not want to hurt him so close to Christmas. He may not be blood related, but she still considered him her father. What I admire the most about Hannah is her reason for falling into her profession. She did not want to see another family experience what James and his parents did with Jason.

MISTLETOE IN PARADISE is book 5.5 in Jill Shalvis’ contemporary romance series, WILDSTONE. So far, every story in this series can stand alone. This novella is no exception. The only similarity each one has is the town Wildstone in California. I am almost caught up on this series. I just need to buy and read the first three books and the first novella.

 

HOLIDAY EVER AFTER is a series of warm-hearted and feel-good holiday stories. I love that Jill Shalvis did not ram Christmas down my throat. The holiday is more of a setting than the main focus.

Review: Christi Caldwell's ALONG CAME A LADY

Review courtesy of Romance Junkies (https://romancejunkies.com/reviews/along-came-a-lady/)

Rafe Audley is the illegitimate son of a duke. He supports his younger siblings by working as a foreman at a coalmine. Rafe wants nothing to do with the man that sired him and his three siblings. However, he cannot ignore the latest person the duke sent to retrieve him. The female persists in upending Rafe’s life and dragging him to London. He never expected to like her. Can Rafe resist Edwina’s brand of persuasion? Or will the relentless woman get her way?

Edwina Dalrymple teaches respectable young women etiquette and proper conduct in society. She wants to pave a path for herself among the ton and to earn her father’s acknowledgement. Edwina’s latest assignment may allow her that opportunity. She needs to convince the duke’s son to come to London and assume his rightful place. The stubborn man thwarts Edwina’s every attempt. Can Edwina win her battle-of-wits with Rafe? Will she eventually find the place she belongs?

I could not help but fall in love with Rafe. He is a selfless man who looks after everyone in his charge. I like how Rafe prefers to earn his livelihood through honest work and not from his father’s handouts. He cares little about his blood ties to nobility or their way of life. What I admire the most about Rafe is his dedication to his three siblings. Even at a young age, he accepted responsibility for their care and wellbeing. Rafe never once abandoned them.

I adore Edwina! She is such an intriguing and resourceful woman. I admire Edwina’s tenaciousness in eking out a respectable life for herself. She knows there are few professions open to a woman or a nobleman’s illegitimate child, especially one alone in the world. Edwina did not let her circumstances hinder her. What I love the most about Edwina is her refusal to be intimidated by Rafe. She holds her ground against him, and she meets his every challenge head on.

ALONG CAME A LADY is book one in Christi Caldwell’s new historical romance series, ALL THE DUKE’S SINS. This is my first time reading this author’s works. I enjoyed her writing style. The story’s premise is what drew me to this book. And it did not disappoint! I found myself quickly immersed in the plot and the characters.

ALONG CAME A LADY is a charming tale about two converse people discovering their true places in life. I wonder which Audley will be next? I cannot wait to find out with the next book!

Review: Glass Syndrome by Eiko Ariki

 Nijou and Toomi are two broken souls. They both ache for something… And they find that “something” in each other.

Nijou is popular. He is also a people pleaser, something he abhors about himself. Toomi has been abandoned by his father. He is forced to do shady things to survive.

This is a cute yet bittersweet story. I like how Nijou and Toomi are complete opposites, yet they have quite a lot in common.

The second story in the manga did not pack much of a punch as the first.

Kasumi has been in love with his best friend since high school. However, that best friend has a girlfriend. Kasumi used to think he would be all right with his unrequited love. He finds comfort and love with an upperclassman.

 

I like how both stories have a beginning-esh and sequel in the same manga – basically showing how both couples progressed further in the future.

Both stories are tame boys love stories.

Painting fun = Nauilp + story

 

The resin figure I decided to feature is from Loot-Studio’s January 2021’s Orconspiracy pack.

The figure is from the heroes section. Natasha Blaine (Human Bard). I have bardic characters; however, they are all elven. Which would not work. So, I decided what if… What if my character Gryffe Wynterwind had a daughter with my friend’s character Tangi.

And thus, Nauilp Wynterwind was born! She did not follow in her parents’ footsteps. Instead, she followed her own path. But of course, her father insisted she learn some weaponry.

Since she is a character, I made up on the fly, I really do not have any written pieces with her. So, I decided to use a piece with her parents.

Please forgive any grammatical errors and such... I revamped this piece too. I do have another piece featuring her father...

Gryffe thumped the back of his hand against his captain’s tent. “Red, I’m coming in,” he announced before brushing the flap aside. “We have a bi’ of a problem…”

He spotted her seated before the map table. Her elbow propped on the scarred wood. Tussled crimson hair framed her rectangular face. Across from her sat a pony-sized wolf, his front paw mimicking the captain.

Tangi turned distracted teal-green eyes his way. She tapped her fingertips on the map’s surface.

Gryffe hated to interrupt her, especially when Tangi worked on their battle strategies. But his news may hinder their job. Or possibly their employment.

He rubbed the leather patch across his one eye. “Our employer’s nephew paid us a visi’ today.”

She let loose a beleaguered sigh but waited for the rest of the report. A rumbling growl came from her wolfen pet.

Gryffe knew this next part would upset her the most. “And he proposi’ioned the wrong woman.”

Tangi thunked her head on the table and groaned. He distinctively heard her mutter Bremusa’s name.

Gryffe’s body reacted to her response. He inwardly cursed and struggled to control his breathing, only to inhale her scent.

“Ih’,” his voice turned raspy. He coughed before starting anew. “Ih’ took Ignatius, Sterenn, and myself to restrain Bremusa. She nearly castra’ed the male.”

For a wee woman, she knew the right spots to hit a man. His hip and shin took the brunt of her displeasure. Gryffe omitted that part from his report.

“I gave Sterenn permission to knock her ou’.” He mentally thanked the Anthe that his voice steadied. “I figured she would excuse Sterenn.”

Tangi lifted her head only to rest it on her arm. She showed her approval with a wry smirk. “Where is she now?”

Gryffe motioned in the direction of their cartographer’s tent. “She’s in Leisil’s ten’.” Leisil was the only male in The Pack Bremusa tolerated.

“And our unwanted guest?” Resignation flitted over her pretty features.

Gryffe wanted to kiss those pinch lines away. He shook his head to banish the thought. “In Circe’s expert care. He’s fortunate tha’ we tackled Bremusa before she could enac’ her threa’.”

Tangi pushed her body up from the table. She turned to the rust-brown wolf companion. “New orders Kry, I need you to help Leisil babysit Bremusa. You have my permission to use whatever force you deem necessary.” She gave a sardonic shrug. “She can burn off her rage at tomorrow’s battle.”

Kry’s lips parted in a simile of a smile. He made a yapping sound and jumped to his feet. His dark green eyes met Gryffe’s in passing.

Gryffe narrowed his good eye in question. He could never shake the feeling that the damn beast laughed at him. That stare felt too humanoid. “Red? Why do I always feel like he’s laughing a’ me?

Review: Laughing Under the Clouds, Volume 3

 

Soramaru desperately wants Abe no Sousei – Yamainu’s leader- to teach him. He wants to catch up to his older brother Tenka. Sora first needs to complete a task for the Yamainu: infiltrate Gokumonjo and investigate the strange dealings going on there.

But will he find more than what he bargains for? Living nightmares? Or a possible ally? What will they learn about Orochi’s vessel?

I like that Sora is coming to terms with some things. He still has room for growth… but at what cost?

Tenka still makes the manga funny! I love his antics! He has always been my favorite. Still is!

This volume really gets you in the feels. So angsty! It moved me to tears!

This makes me want to re-watch the anime!

Jeffe Kennedy's BRIGHT FAMILIAR released today (07/07/21)

 

“Dark Wizard is one of my top reads ever.” ~ NY Times Bestselling Author Darynda Jones

“Dark Wizard will be on my keeper shelf for freaking ever.” ~ NY Times Bestselling Author Dana Marton

“Jeffe nailed what it is to write a fantasy romance. Fabulous!” ~ USAT Bestselling Author of Radiance, Grace Draven

"...utterly compelling...clicked Buy right at the end of the sample and just kept reading and reading because this book is so good, with such a rich world and characters. I'm so glad I picked it up...now can it be June already so I can read more?" ~Amazon reviewer

***

The epic story of Nic and Gabriel continues…

***

He wanted her with consuming passion... and so did the monster within.

Lady Veronica Elal has been freed from her tower—and entered a life of servitude. It doesn’t matter that her wizard master has odd ideas about circumventing Convocation tradition and making their relationship equal. Nic prides herself on her practicality and that means not pretending her marriage is full of hearts and flowers. Besides she understands that, despite her new husband’s idealism, they face obstacles so great the pair of them could be crushed to nothing, even without dashing themselves brainless trying to fight the Convocation.

Lord Gabriel Phel has come this far against impossible odds. He was born with powerful wizard magic, the first in his family in generations. He’s managed to begin the process of reinstating his fallen house. And—having staked his family’s meager fortune to win a familiar to amplify his magic, a highborn daughter to be mother to his children, his lady, and lover—he rescued Nic in a distant land, successfully bringing her home to House Phel. Though she’s cynical about their chances of success, he’s certain they can defy their enemies and flourish. Together.

But, the more Gabriel discovers about working with the fiery Nic, attempting to learn the finer points of wizardry and marriage, the more illicit fantasies plague him. His need for Nic—and the dark cravings she stirs in his black wizard’s heart—grow daily. Though Nic has reconciled herself to being possessed by Gabriel—and indeed yearns for even more from her brooding and reluctant master—creating a new life for herself isn’t easy. Especially when Gabriel seems determined to subvert the foundation of her world. Starting with her father.

 

My review of BRIGHT FAMILIAR will hopefully come tomorrow or before the weekend is over.

https://jeffekennedy.com/bright-familiar

Painting fun + story - Jivundus

The resin figure I decided to feature is from Loot-Studio’s October 2020’s An Expedition to the Underworld pack.

My husband knows about my love (and fascination) with drows, so he bought this pack specifically with me in mind. To say I was giddy is an understatement.

This figure is from the Enemies section. Drow warrior male. I had to decide which of my drow characters he would fit. Jivundus immediately came to mind. Some colors I had to improvise.

The next problem I faced was deciding which of the three writing pieces to put up on the blog. Two of the three are rewritten. So, by default, I chose the first one.

 

The revised snippet. I was told the revamped version is much better. Please forgive any grammar or other errors. Again, if you wish to see the older version ask.

Valsharen studied the door before him. It lacked the gaudy ornamentation the Horde Matrons favored. Slate grey and plain, the opposite of its owner. He chuffed out a breath and rapped his gloved knuckles against its surface.

“In!” A commanding voice barked.

He pushed the door open enough to permit his bulk through. His armor clanked, heralding his presence in the sparse room.

Quarth-sargh’s leader sat in a backless chair. A thin boy attended him, fitting a gray and black breastplate to his torso.

“Welcome, my abbil!” Rich brown eyes warmed in congenial welcome.

Valsharen felt the boy’s curious scrutiny. He turned enough to regard the waif. Vaguely, he recalled when Jivundus found him. And where...

Dark green eyes peeked through dirty and unkempt hair, little else of his face showed. He judged the boy to be somewhere around eleven or twelve, around the age when his grandmother sent him to Sargh Academy.

The boy’s fingers brushed back Jivundus’ hair to finish buckling the armor into place. “Finished, master,” he announced and stepped back, averting his gaze to the ground.

But not before Valsharen caught the reverence in those young eyes.

“Good lad,” Jivundus praised. He motioned to the door with his chin. “Go fetch me a bottle of Deathsting. Then go eat. First-General Valsharen and I have business to discuss.”

The boy bobbed his head. Valsharen noticed green-blue streaks in the boy’s hair. “As you command, master.” He padded to the door, his bare feet making barely a sound, and slipped out.

Valsharen waited until the door clicked shut. “You kept the boy.” He worded it as a statement. “And what is this ‘master’ business?”

Jivundus’ thin lips curled up into a smirk. “Wanre feels beholden to me for saving him from those soul-sucking parasites.”

He could not refute the man’s claim. The Horde matrons used boys like Wanre for fodder or sacrificial offerings to Nhilyl.

Jivundus nearly fell into that world, he remembered. However, his charismatic demeanor and his tactician mind saved him from that fate.

“Besides,” Jivundus continued and rose up from the stool, “he is better off with us.”

“This decision has nothing to do with a certain scarred Second-General?” Valsharen asked point-blank. “Word through the ranks is that she favors him.”

Jivundus’ body stilled at the mention of Sarol. He snorted in derision before heading towards his bed. “Favor him?” He scoffed as he picked up his vambraces. “The woman has already started training him in warfare.”

Valsharen kept his face blank. He could hear the man’s one-sided infatuation in his words.

“Before long, she will be giving him a proper drow name,” Jivundus groused, jamming his right wrist into a forearm guard.

“Careful, abbil,” Valsharen cautioned, his red eyes leveling on his friend and commander. “You are starting to sound like one of those fathers up on the surface.”

Jivundus sent him a baleful glare. “No matter,” he dismissed with a casual flick of his hand. “I have already decided to send Wanre top-side. I have a friend there who would look after him.”

Valsharen frowned. He knew his commander periodically smuggled drow and half-drows to the surface.

“Which brings us to the reason I called you here.” He returned to business. “You will be accompanying Wanre there and staying. She has been asking for competent fighters. However, I can only afford to send you.”

Review: Donna Grant's DRAGON MINE

 Review courtesy of Romance Junkies ( https://romancejunkies.com/reviews/dragon-mine/ )

DRAGON MINE is book two in Donna Grant’s new paranormal romance series, DRAGON KINGS, a spinoff from her DARK KINGS series. It is also loosely connected with her REAPER books. I recommend reading the previous series to understand everything that goes on in the plot and the characters involved. The only nitpick I have is that I wish the author explored Zora a bit more. I guess I got spoiled on Anne McCafferty and Mercedes Lackey’s dragon realms that I expected more.

Vaughn is the Dragon King of the Teals. He is Dreagan’s solicitor and lawyer. Vaughn cannot forget the woman he met eons ago. He offers to accompany Rhi and Con to Zora – an alternate world like earth but with dragons. There, Vaughn comes face-to-face with his mystery woman. However, she intends to keep him at a distance. Will Vaughn convince Eurwen they belong together? Can he help her and her brother defeat Zora’s menacing threat?

Eurwen is the daughter of Rhiannon and Constantine. She co-rules Zora with her twin brother. Eurwen yearns to meet her parents. However, their reunion brings an unexpected guest. Eurwen feels conflicted between her feelings for Vaughn and her duty to Zora. A dangerous threat reveals itself. Will Eurwen deny Vaughn? Can she find a way to be with him? Or will duty stand between their happiness?

I can only imagine the emotional turmoil Vaughn went through on seeing dragons again. However, I admire him for not trying to force a connection with his teals. Vaughn understands that he is essentially a stranger to them. What I like the most about Vaughn is his patience with Eurwen. He waited centuries to find her. Vaughn also respected Eurwen for her responsibilities to the dragons.

I had a difficult time connecting with Eurwen. I cannot pinpoint what exactly kept me from liking her, especially since she possesses a lot of qualities I like. She does remind me somewhat of her mother in some ways. I adore Eurwen’s name. It differs from the usual Gaelic names used often in stories. I did have to look up its pronunciation. What I admire the most about Eurwen is her dedication to Zora and the dragons. The dragons’ safety comes first to her.

DRAGON MINE is an incredible tale of two people overcoming challenging hurdles to be together. I cannot wait to see what dangers await the Dragon Kings in Zora in upcoming books.

Those with sensitivity to miscarriages and stillborn births should read with caution. It is mentioned and referenced in the story.

Review: Yakuza Lover

 

Yuri wants nothing more to find a boyfriend. However, she is not settling for just any guy. Yuri encounters Oya at a party – where he not only rescues her from an unwanted situation, but he steals her heart.

Oya is yakuza. He is no lower ranking boss. Oya sees Yuri standing defiantly while protecting a friend, and it was love at first sight. So when Yuri approaches him later, he knows he cannot let her go.

Oya is no hero. He shows Yuri is possessive yet sweet side. There is little he would not do for her. Okay, I just like the way he's drawn too. Something about it simply draws me in.

 

I have been eyeing this manga for a while… If you want a wholesome, sweet read, this series is not for you. There are a good deal of sexy scenes in this volume.

I will definitely be checking out the next volume!

Review: LOVE ★ COM Volume 1 and 2

 

Volume 1

Risa Koizumi and Atsushi Otoni have height complexes. She is the tallest girl in class. He is the shortest.

Neither can escape the other at school!Their homeroom teacher assigns both as classroom reps, so they are forced to be together.

Risa finds a boy she’s interested in. Otoni forms a crush on Risa’s friend. The two put their differences aside to help the other win their crush’s affection.

Things don’t go exactly as planned!

These two are hilarious together! Neither wants to acknowledge the gift horse in the room. They are too stubborn to admit that something is stirring before them! They have so much in common, right down to their favorite musician.

Volume 2

Risa and Otoni’s classmates all think the two are a pair. The two are quick to deny it… Otoni’s ex-girlfriend shows up and Risa jumps to conclusion. She decides to help him get back with his ex; however, she feels conflicted.

The shoe falls on the other foot when Risa’s childhood friend starts monopolizing her time. This guy keeps picking a fight with Otoni. He is not exactly thrilled at seeing Risa with this guy either. The two are starting to realize that something might be between them.

 

 

I actually picked up the first two volumes from my local library. The premise looked like something I might enjoy. And boy did I ever.

This is a teenage, high school romantic comedy. I smiled through all two volumes. I will definitely be checking out the rest