My Reading List - March 2013

FINISHED - 

1. "SEAVIEW INN" by Sherryl Woods (A+++++) Home is often where you least expect it. Hannah Matthews is undeniably tough - a single mom, a top-tier PR exec, a breast cancer survivor. On the job and in her family she prides herself on being go-to Hannah, who can handle any crisis. But with her eighty-five-year-old grandmother balking at going into a retirement home, her twenty-year-old daughter unexpectedly pregnant and an old flame suddenly underfoot, Hannah is facing a few crises of her own. And being back home on Seaview Key is most definitely adding to the stress. Luke Stevens has some serious issues, as well. While he was serving in Iraq, his wife dumped him for his best friend, his kids are furious because he left them and he shared his medical practice with the man who's now sleeping with his wife. Seaview Key, where he grew up, seems like the perfect place to hide out untiil he makes some decisions and gets his life back on track. The last thing he expects is to fall in love...with his old hometown and with Hannah. Sometimes, though, the unexpected is just what it takes to start over...and to heal the heart.
2. "BAREFOOT IN THE SAND" by Roxanne St. Claire (Barefoot Bay #1) (A+++++) When all you hold dear is taken away...a second chance is the only thing you have left. When a hurricane roars through Lacey Armstrong's home on the coast of Barefoot Bay, she decides all that remains in the rubble is opportunity. A new hotel is just what Mimosa Key needs and Lacey and her teenage daughter are due for a fresh start. And nothing, especially not a hot, younger architect, is going to distract Lacey from finally making her dreams a reality. Love has already cost Clay Walker everything. And if he's going to have any chance of picking up the pieces of his life, he needs the job as Lacey Armstrong's architect. What's not in the plans is falling for the headstrong beauty. Her vision of the future is more appealing than anything he could have ever drafted for himself. Will Clay's designs on Lacey's heart be more than she can handle, or will she trust him to build something that will last forever?
3. "ANIMAL ATTRACTION" by Jill Shalvis (Animal Magnetism #2) (A+++++) She's tempting his basic instincts. Sunshine, Idaho, is a quiet ranching town that provides a perfect refuge for injured animals...and sometimes, people. And veterinarian Dell Connelly suspects there's a reason his clinic's uberefficient receptionist has taken shelter here. Jade Bennett couldn't be happier to escapt her well-meaning but smothering family and their expectations, not to mention the big-city jungle. There's nothing like working with animals, having a forlorn, grumpy stray kitten make its home under her desk...or enjoying the gorgeoug views of her ruggedly sexy boss to help her forget the past. But Dell's seductive, alluring ways have sparked an uncontrollable desire, one Jade hadn't expected to feel again. And though Dell has never had time for love, Jade's strength and sass is the kind of call no red-blooded male can resist.
4. "RETURN TO WILLOW LAKE" by Susan Wiggs (Lakeshore Chronicles #9) (A+++++) Sonnet Romano has the ideal career, the ideal boyfriend and has just been offered a prestigious fellowship. But when she learns her mother is unexpectedly expecting a high-risk pregnancy, she puts everything on hold and heads home to Avalon. Once her mom is out of danger, Sonnet intends to pick up her life where she left off. But when her mother receives a devastating diagnosis, Sonnet must decide what really matters in live, even if that means staying in Avalon and taking a job that forces her to work alongside her biggest and maybe her sweetest, mistake - award-winning filmmaker Zach Alger. And in a summer of laughter and tears, of old dreams and new possibilities, Sonnet may find the home of her heart.
5. "INSTANT TEMPTATION" by Jill Shalvis (Wilder Adventures #3) (A++++) T.J. Wilder is the perfect package of breathtaking adventure and raw sex appeal. Even better, he's about to reconnect with the one woman he's never been able to forget. To Harley, the landscape around Wishful, California, is exhilarating, untamed and more than a little dangerous. The same could be said for T.J. Wilder, who's invited himself along on her trek to study a rare coyote. Harley's career is riding on this trip and she doesn't need a stubborn, incredibly sexy distraction. But T.J. is a professional guide who knows when to stay back and when to provide invaluable expertise -- just like he's done since they were in high school. And Harley, as usual, is torn between throttling him and giving in to the raw attraction that's been smoldering all these years. T.J. knows how proud and capable Harley is, but he's damned sure not letting her put herself at risk when there are illegal hunters in the area. She needs him, with the same soul-stirring urgency that's he's always craved her. And here, in this beautiful place days from civilization, he'll finally have a chance to prove it - over and over again.
6. "WANTING YOU" by A.C. Arthur (Carrington Chronicles Part Two) (Kindle) (A++++) One man wants her...and another won't let her go. They've seen, they've touched and they're hooked...on each other! Jason and Celise have to idea what their relationship will bring or how the fact that Celise's family and Jason's rivals are all staying in his hotel. As things at Carrington Resorts take a turn for the worst and Celise's ex shows up to make his final play, will their newfound connection suffer? Or will love find a way? 
7. "WHEN FIRST THEY MET" by Debbie Macomber (prelude to Rose Harbor series) (Kindle) (A+++) From the moment Jo Marie sits next to Paul Rose inside the Seattle Seahawks' stadium, she feels a spark. Paul's strikigng blue eyes and kind smile tell her that he's someone special - different from any man she's met before. When they strike up a conversation, Jo Marie and Paul realize how much they have in common, yet there one thing keeping them from a fairy-tale ending: Paul is in the military and will ship out of Seattle within the next six weeks. As Jo Marie wonders if she should once again open her heart, she decides that, no matter the stakes she can't forgo her chance at true love.
8. "ONE DANGEROUS NIGHT" by Lisa Renee Jones (prelude to Beneath the Secrets series) (Kindle) (A+++) Blake Walker left behind the ATF when the drug cartel he was hunting cost him the life of his fellow agent and fiancee. Now, two years later, he's working with his brothers at Walker Security, but he's living fast, hard and wild, until he reaches the ultimate high...revenge. And he's close, so close he can taste it. He's one meeting, one woman away from being inside one of the money laundering shells the cartel operates.
9. "SEAN'S RECKONING" by Sherryl Woods (Delaney Brothers #2) (A+++) Boston's bravest...Son of a shattered family, fireman Sean Devaney knew love never lasted - so he refused to chance it. Then he encountered scrappy but vulnerable single mom Deanna Blackwell and her pint-sized son - who had just lost everything in a devastating fire. Despite the warning in Sean's head, he had to protect this struggling waitress and her spunky kid. But who knew that mother and child would take chinks out of the armor around his heart? A tower of testosterone, Sean was tough enough to storm burning buildings. But was he brave enough to risk building a family?
10. "THE INN AT ROSE HARBOR" by Debbie Macomber (Rose Harbor #1) (A+++++) Jo Marie Rose first arrives in Cedar Cove seeking a sense of peace and a fresh start. Coping with the death of her husband, the young war widow purchases a local bed-and-breakfast - the newly christened Rose Harbor Inn - ready to begin her life anew. Yet the inn holds more surprises than Jo Marie can imagine. Her first guest is Joshua Weaver, who has come home to care for his ailing stepfather. The two have never seen eye to eye and Joshua has little hope that they can reconcile their differences. But a long-lost acquaintance from Joshua's high school days proves to him that forgiveness is never out of reach and that love can bloom even when it's least expected. Jo Marie's other gues is Abby Kincaid, who has returned to Cedar Cove to attend her brother's wedding. Back for the first time in twenty years, she almost wishes she hadn't come, the picturesque town harboring painful memories. While Abby reconnects with family and old friends, she realizes that she can move on only if she truly allows herself to go.
11. "BEACH HOUSE NO. 9" by Christie Ridgway (Beach House No. 9 #1) (A+++++) When Jane Pearson arrives at Griffin Lowell's beach house, she expects a brooding loner. After all, his agent hired her to help the reclusive war journalist write his stalled memoir. Instead, Jane finds a tanned, ocean-blue-eyed man in a Hawaiian shirt, hosting a beach party and surrounded by beauties. Faster than he can untie a bikini top, Griffin lets Jane know he doesn't want her. But she desperately needs this job and digs her toes in the sand. Griffin intends to spend the coming weeks at Beach House No. 9 taking refuge from his painful memories - and from the primly sexy Jane, who wants to bare his soul. But warm nights, moonlit walks and sultry kisses just may unock both their guarded hearts.
12. "HEAD OVER HEELS" by Jill Shalvis (Lucky Harbor #3) (A++++) Breaking rules and breaking hearts. Free-sppirited Chloe lives life on the edge. Unlike her soon-to-be married sisters, she isn't ready to settle into a quiet life running their family's newly renovated inn. But her love of trouble - and trouble with love - quickly draws the attention of the very stern, very sexy sheriff who'd like nothing better than to tame her wild ways. Suddenly Chloe can't take a misstep without the sheriff hot on her heels. His rugged swagger and his enigmatic smile are enough to make a girl beg to be handcuffed. For the first time, instead of avoiding the law, Chloe dreams of surrender. Can this rebel find a way to keep the peace with the straitlaced sheriff? Or will Chloe's colorful past keep her from a love that lasts...and the safe haven she truly wants in a town called Lucky Harbor?
13. "MEN OF HONOR" "FRISCO'S KID" by Susanne Brockmann (Tall, Dark and Dangerous #3) (A++++) Alan Francisco's leg - and his career - were damaged beyond repair and with them, his confidence and love for life. But there were two people determined to help him feel positive again - his five year old niece who was now in his care and Mia Summerton who hoped her love could bring happiness to his life. "MAN OF ICE" by Diana Palmer (A+++) In order for Dawson rutherford to secure the land he needed, Barrie Bell was going to have to pose as his bride-to-be. A tempestuous night long ago, however, meant that Dawson had given up any hope of the relationship being more than pretence. But there was no telling what this hot-blooded woman would do to this man of ice.
14. "REAL MEN LAST ALL NIGHT" "COOPERS FALL" by Lora Leigh (A++++) Former-ranger-turned-bar-owner Ethan Cooper never thought he would get an eyeful of prim Miss Sarah Fox from his attice window one hot summer afternoon. But now his blood is on fire for the delicious little minx. "LURING LUCY" by Lori Foster (A++++) All Lucy was looking for when she went to her facation home was an innocent fling to quell the yearning she had felt since the death of her husband four years before. She never expected her longtime friend Bram to lure her into a love affair so hot. "THE EDGE OF SIN" by Cheyenne McCray (Lexie Steele #1.5) (A++++) Zane Steele lives a life of extraordinary danger as a government agent and has never let anyone get too close. Then he sees the one woman who will change his life forever. "WANTED: A REAL MAN" by Heidi Betts (A++++) Claire left her high school sweetheart, Linc, in search of a better life. Ten years later she needs his help as a U.S. Marshal to find her missing daughter...Linc's daughter. Reeling with the knowledge of having a daughter he's never known, Linc sets out to claim what's his.
15. "TRUE LOVE AT SILVER CREEK RANCH" by Emma Cane (Valentine Valley #2) (A+++++) Adam Desantis is back - bruised, battle-weary and sexier than ever! Not that Brooke Thalberg is in the market. The beautiful cowgirl of Silver Creek Ranch needs a cowboy for hire, not a boyfriend - thought the gaggle of grandmas at the Widows' Boardinghouse thinks otherwise. But from the moment she finds herself in Adam's arms, she's shocked to discover she may just want more. Adam knows it's crazy to tangle with Brooke, especially with the memories that still haunt him and the warm welcome her family has given him. But he finds himself in a fix, because tender-loving Brooke is so much more woman than he ever imagined. Can a soldier battling demons give her the love she clearly deserves? Just about everybody in Valentine thinks so!
16. "HOLDING OUT FOR A HERO" by HelenKay Dimon (Men of Hawaii #4) (A+++++) Too close for comfort. Deana Armstrong needs a hero - not for herself, but for the nephew all her money and time can't seem to get out of jail. Unfortunately, the best hero in all the Hawaiian Islands is set on turning in his badge and getting his excellent butt into another line of work. If that wasn't enough, Josh Windsor also has a big-time grudge against Deana herself. But if there's anything being rich, smart and stubborn has taught Deana, it's never to settle for second best. Josh has had it with saving people. He's had it with getting hauled into court. And boy, has he ever had it with Deana. Or well, he hasn't had it. Yet. But the more she pops up sounding infuriating and looking good enough to eat, the more her hot bod and her cold case wriggle into his mind. And there's only so much even a hero can resist.
17. "RISKS" by Stella Cameron (Kindle) (A++++) Widowed with two feisty sons, house falling apart, old female friends from her "couples" days wary of a newly single and very appealing woman - Jenny Andrews plate is more than full. Add a struggle to start a new business after years out of the workplace and she is as close to overload as possible. Isn't she? And the return of Peter Kynaston, her dead husband's research chemist whom Jenny partly blamed for the death that tore her family apart and she has a recipe for throwing up her hands, or proving she's a take-no-prisoners winner. Peter intends to smooth the waters between them, to drop back into their comfortable friendship. At least that's what he thinks he wants...until he spends a little time with Jenny. There is very little that is smooth between these two, but trouble can be fascinating!
18. "THE SECOND CHANCE CAFE" by Alison Kent (Hope Springs #1) (Kindle) (A++++++) Growing up, Kaylie Flynn was shuffled from foster home to foster home before being welcomed into Winton and May Wise's family. It was May who taught Kaylie the comfort of home and the healing power of baking the perfect brownie. Years later, May leaves Kaylie the money she needs to open her own cafe in the charming Victorian house they once shared. Now back in Hope Springs, Kaylie's determined to finally make all her dreams a reality - and unearth answers to lingering questions about her past. Soon, However, Kaylie's carefully laid plans take an unexpected turn. The house needs far more work than she realized and Tennessee Keller, the carpenter Kaylie hires, is proving to be a very handsome and very unneeded distraction from her quest to uncover the truth about her parents. When a crisis threatens to destroy everything she's worked so hard to build, Kaylie must decide where her heart lies: with the ghosts of her past or the love and promise of her future.
19. "THE LONG WAY HOME" by Mariah Stewart (Chesapeake Diaries #6) (A++++) As the only child of a wealthy investment manager, Ellie Chapman has never known anything besides a life of perfect privilege. But her years of good fortune come to an abrupt end when her father is exposed for swindling billions of dollars from innocent investors in a massive Ponzi scheme. And just like that, Ellie loses everything: money, job, home - even her fiance, who's jailed as her father's partner in crime. With no job prospects on the horizon, no cash and her family name in tatters, Ellie has only one place to go. Sleep St. Dennis, Maryland, is hardly where Ellie intends to stay, however. Keeping her identity a secret, she plans to sell the house her late mother left her in the small town and use the proceeds to move on with her life. Unfortunately, her ticket to a new beginning is in dire need of a laundry list of pricey improvements, many of which she'll have to do herself. And until the house on Bay View Road is fit to be sold, the sole place Ellie will be traveling is the hardware store. But as the many charms of St. Dennis - not to mention Cameron O'Connor, the handsome local contractor who has secrets of his own - begin to work their magic, what begins as a lesson in do-it-yourself renovations might just end up as Ellie's very own rejuvenation.
20. "KEY WEST" by Stella Cameron (Talon & Flynn: New Orleans PD #1) (A++++) One night, eight months ago, Sonnie Giacano lost everything - her husband, her unborn child and a significant portion of her memory. She knows what happened to her was no accident, but rather something so sinister she's blocked it from her mind. A cynical man on the run from his own demons, ex-NYPD cop Chris Talon isn't interested in Sonnie's case. But against his will, Chris is drawn into her harrowing world. Tormented by nightmarish flashbacks, Sonnie is determined to find out the truth. Does she really hear what she hears...and what she sees? When Sonnie and Chris put their lives on the line, her nightmares soon threaten to bleed into reality.
21. "THE LOOK OF LOVE" by Bella Andre (Chase & Chloe: The Sullivan's #1) (Kindle) (A+++) Chloe Peterson is having a bad night. A really bad night. The large bruise on her cheek can attest to that. And when her car skids off the side of a wet country road straight into a ditch, she's convinced even the gorgeous guy who rescues her in the middle of the rain storm must be too good to be true. Or is he? As a successful photographer who frequently travels around the world, Chase Sullivan has his pick of beautiful women and whenever he's home in San Francisco, one of his seven siblings is usually up for causing a little fun trouble. Chase thinks his life is great just as it is - until the night he finds Chloe and her totaled car on the side of the road in Napa Valley. Not only has he never met someone so lovely, both inside and out, but he quickly realizes she has much bigger problems than her damaged car. Soon, he is willing to move mountains to love - and protect - her, but will she let him? Chloe vows never to make the mistake of trusting a man again. Only, with every loving look Chase gives her - and every sinfully sweet carress - as the attraction between them sparks and sizzles, she can't help but wonder if she's met the only exception. And although Chase didn't realize his life was going to change forever in an instant, amazingly, he isn't the least big interesting in fighting that change. Instead, he's gearing up for a different fight altogether...for Chloe's heart.
22. "BLAME IT ON TEXAS" by Christie Craig (Hotter in Texas #2) (A+++++) Zoe Adams has always been content with her quiet nights at home, watching TV alone - until her life turns into a real-life episode of Unsolved Mystery Hunters. The story of a kidnapped girl triggers unexplained memories and Zoe is dead-set on figuring out why. Her search leads her to one of the Lone Star State's richest families - and to sexy PI Tyler Lopez. Tyler has sworn off women, especially redheads with killer curves who poke their noses into his clients' private lives. Still, he can't deny the attraction any more than he can deny that some of Zoe's crazy story makes sense. But when she becomes a hit man's target, this cold case really starts heating up. Suddenly Tyler will do anything to protect Zoe - even risk his heart.
23. "THE MARRIAGE MISTAKE" by Jennifer Probst (A+++++) Carina Conte has had a crush on her brother Michael's best friend, Max Gray, since she was a teenager. Now she's earned her MBA and come to work at Michael's new venture, America's fastest-growing bakery empire. But some things never change: her family still treats her like a child. With three drop-dead gorgeous siblings, she's still the ugly duckling of the bunch. And Max, the company's new CEO, still barely notices her. Max knows Carina Conte is strickly off-limits. But hot-blooded lust wins out at a conference when the two share a scorching one-night stand - and are busted by her mother! Now, forced by old-world Italian tradition into a marriage he's not ready for, Max is miserable - and Carina is furious. Her new husband is about to realize that hell hath no fury like a woman transformed.
24. "JOSH" by R.C. Ryan (Wyoming Sky #2) (A++++) Rancher and mountain climber Josh Conway has never backed down from a challenge. So when a photographer disappears in the wilderness during a blizzard, Josh answers the emergency call and leaps into action. Yet he's soon shocked to find the person in "distress" is doing fine - and she's a gorgeous blonde spitfire who's as brave and bold as he is. Sierra Moore will stop at nothing to capture the perfect picture, even if it means braving a snowstorm in the mountains. She's not used to being rescued, especially by a ruggedly handsome cowboy who makes her heart skip a beat. Sierra can't turn down Josh's invitation to ride out the storm at the Conway family ranch - and she can't resist his slow, steamy kisses, either. But thids mysterious beauty is hiding a deadly secret. Now as a dangerous force closes in on her, Sierra fears it wil destroy everything she cares about...starting with Josh.
25. "ALL OR NOTHING" by Claire Cross (Coxwell's #4) (A++++++) Some people will do anything for true love - even if they have to fake it. Jen Maitland had no use for handsome guys with easy charm - until she met Zach. He's the perfect fake date to end her mother's matchmaking scheme before it starts. Besides, he'd probably just use her and leave her like her ex-fiance did. At least that's what Jen tells herself. The only problem is that Zach isn't as predictable as he appears. Zach Coxwell hates commitment, but loves a challenge. Like the pretty bar waitress who turned him down flat for a date - only to invite him to her family's Thanksgiving dinner. Zach knows he can make Jen smile - and he's betting that he can unravel her mysteries - even if he has to do it over candied yams. A tofu turkey, a sister who threatens to have Zach's love child, the untimely appearance of a knitted avocado - and Zach's discovery of her real motive - combine to turn Thanksgiving dinner into Jen's worst nightmare. Zach, on the other hand, has the time of his life. And when he finally makes Jen smile, he realizes there's one commitment he's willing to make after all...but persuading Jen to believe him will take everything he's got.
26. "DESTINY" by Carly Phillips (Serendipity #2) (A++++) Nash Barron might be cynical about love, but even he likes a good wedding. Still, the only good thing about his brother's wedding is seeing Kelly Moss again. Nash can't help but admire her confidence and beauty, but he's forced to keep his distance because getting involved with Kelly could destroy his relationship with his newly discovered teenage half sister, Tess. Kelly doesn't want to upset Tess's life for a fling. Except...the more Kelly gets to know Nash, the more vulnerable she becomes to the kindness hidden beneath his gruff exterior and the less she's able to stay away. But Kelly has other reasons for keeping her distance - like the secret from her past she knows Nash will never forgive.
27. "DARK AND DEADLY" by Jeanne Adams (Dark #2) (A++++) No Escape. Cursed. Bad things happen to men who get close to Victoria Hagan. Now one of them has paid the ultimate price. Her ex-fiance, Todd, has been found murdered in the very church where he left her at the altar - and Torie is the prime suspect. Her only hope is the last person she wants to see. Ever since he advised his best friend not to marry her and the bride-to-be walked in on the conversation, Paul Jameson has stayed far away from Torie - and resisted their dangerously hot mutual attraction. Still, Paul promised Todd he would take care of Torie. She certainly needs him now...almost as much as he wants her. And that's exactly what a killer is counting on.
28. "UNDENIABLY YOURS" by Shannon Stacey (Kowalski Family #2) (A+++++) Can a one-night stand turn into happily ever after? Bar owner Kevin Kowalski is used to women throwing their phone numbers at him. Even if lately he's been more interested in finding Mrs. Right than Miss Right Now. Enter Beth Hansen. Kevin and Beth may have started out all wrong, with an impromptu passionate encounter at a wedding, followed by a walk of shame. Yet Kevin knows there's more to their relationship than a one-night stand. Especially when Beth turns up pregnant. Kevin may be ready for the "next step," but Beth doesn't want a relationship with a former playboy, however irresistible he might be. And it's going to take a lot to convince her to go on a second date with the father of her child.
29. "WATER BOUND" by Christine Feehan (Sea Haven #1) (Unabridged Audio CD) (A+++++) The last thing Lev remembered was being enlisted to protect a vulnerable young woman in the coastal town of Sea Haven. Then, as if in some nightmare, he was lost in the swirling currents of the ocean and sucked deeper into a freezing black cold. Just as quickly he was saved - pulled ashore by a beautiful stranger. Her name is Rikki and she's a sea-urchin diver in Sea Haven. Soon they will be bound by tantalizing secrets, which will engulf them both in a whirlpool of passion and danger.
30. "HIDDEN RICHES" by Nora Roberts (A+++++) Dora Conroy has a passion for antiques - and any other rarities she can acquire for her quaint Philadelphia shop. A seasoned dealer, she knows all the tricks of the trade. But she is unprepared for the deadly consequences when she purchases a few curiosities at an auction - and unknowingly brings home a priceless cache that makes her the target of an international criminal. Entwined in a reckless chase, Dora turns to her new neighbor, Jed Skimmerhorn, a cop who has turned in his badge - and whose desire for lovely Dora puts him back in the line of fire. Fighting their attraction while falling in love, they find that hidden riches can have a most ordinary facade. And that passion can be a lethal obsession,
31. "CALL ME IRRESISTIBLE" by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (Wynette, Texas #6) (A+++++) Lucy Jorik's the daughter of a former U.S. President...Meg Koranda's the offspring of legends...One of them is about to marry Mr. Irresistible - Ted Beaudine - the favorite son of Wynette, Texas...The other is determined to save her friend from a mess of heartache. Meg knows breaking up her best friend's wedding is the right thing to do, but no one else agrees. Faster than Lucy can say "I don't," Meg's the most hated woman in town - and stuck there with a dead car, an empty wallet and a very angry bridegroom. Broke, stranded, without her famous parents watching her back, Meg believes she can survive by her own wits. After all, what's the worst that can happen? She'll lose her heart to Mr. Irresistible? Not likely. Not likely at all.
32. "EXCLUSIVELY YOURS" by Shannon Stacey (Kowalski Family #1) (A+++++) A second chance to finish what they started. When Keri Daniels' boss finds out she has previous carnal knowledge of reclusive bestselling author Joe Kowalski, she gives Keri a choice: get an interview or get a new job. Joe's never forgotten the first girl to break his heart, so he's intrigued to hear Keri's back in town - and looking for him. He proposes an outrageous plan - for every day she survives with his family on their annual camping trip, Keri can ask one question. The chemistry between Joe and Keri is as potent as the bug spray, but Joe's sister is out to avenge his broken heart and Keri hasn't ridden an ATV since she was ten. Who knew a little blackmail, a whole lot of family and some sizzling romantic interludes could make Keri reconsider the old dream of Keri & Joe 2gether 4ever?
33. "BEACH HOUSE BEGINNINGS" by Christie Ridgway (Beach House No. 9 prequel) (A+++) Two miles of magic. That's how Meg Alexander remembers her childhood home of Crescent Cove on the California coast. But Meg doesn't believe in magic anymore - not since heartbreak made her leave at nineteen and kept her away for 10 years. Yet Meg can't say no when her sister asks her to temporarily step in as the cove's property manager - and she can't deny her instant attraction to handsome guest Caleb McCall. He sparks a desire that Meg hasn't felt in a long time, that even as their incredible, incendiary kisses tempt her into a short-term fling, her head tells her to pull away. Can Caleb convince her to give love a second chance?
34. "THAT NIGHT ON THISTLE LANE" by Carla Neggers (Swift River Valley #2) (A++++) More than just make-believe. Librarian Phoebe O'Dunn deals in stories, but her passion for history has taught her that happy endings are rare. Her life in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts, is safe and uneventful...until she discovers the hidden room. Among its secrets is a ache of vintage clothing, including a spectacular gown - perfect for a gala masquerade in Boston. In the guise of a princess, Phoebe is captivated by a handsome swashbuckler who's also adopted a more daring persona. Noah Kendrick's wealth has made him wary, especially of women: everybody wants something. When Noah and Phoebe meet again in Knights Bridge, at first neither recognizes the other. And neither one is sure they an trust the magic of the night they shared - until an unexpected threat prompts them to unmask their truest selves. After all, it takes more than just the right costume to live out your personal fairy tale. It takes heart...and the courage to be more than you ever dreamed.
35. "ETERNAL KISS" by Laura Wright (Mark of the Vampire #2) (A+++++) Family is blood. His father unknown, his mother dead, Nicholas Roman was raised by the vampire Breed with one wish: to live as a normal vampire. But once he's transformed against his will into a gifted immortal, Nicholas now has one goal: to stop the Eternal Order of vampire from controlling his life and from transforming more males from his bloodline for their vicious reign. Then comes a stranger with a startling secret. Vampire Kate Everborne claims she's sheltering Nicholas's long-lost son. If this is true, then who is the mother? And how endangered are they if, indeed, Nicholas does possess the bloodline so coveted by the Order? These are questions that with every seductive whisper, every silken touch, draw Nicholas and Kate intimately closer and nearer still to the truth. But aroused too are Nicholas's fears that this tantalizing woman has even more secrets - both dangerous and provocative - she has yet to share.
36. "DOUBLE DANGER" by Dee Davis (A-TAC #6) (A+++++) As the newest member of A-Tac, a black-ops CIA unit masquerading as Ivy League faculty, ex-SEAL Simon Kincaid races against the clock to save lives - and outrun his wrenching past. But preventing a major terrorist attack will plunge him and the one woman he's never forgotten into a desperate fight for survival. Ignoring his instincts once cost Simon a vital op - and the life of his best friend, Ryan. Now as escalating, violent attacks hit A-Tac, another person he loves is in danger. Homeland Security agent Jillian Montgomery's investigation has suddenly brought her back into Simon's life and unless they can learn to trust each other, their dangerous mission will fail. After her husband Ryan's death, Jillian dedicates herself to saving others. She can't afford to be tempted by Simon, even though his every touch reignites the desire they once shared. But in the last desperate before disaster strikes, their second chance at love might be the most lethal trap of all.
37. "THE WANDERER" by Robyn Carr (Thunder Point #1) (A+++++) Nestled on the Oregon coast is a small town of rocky beaches and rugged charm. Locals love the land's unspoiled beauty. Developers see it as a potential gold mine. When newcomer Hank Cooper learns he's been left an old friend's entire beachfront property, he finds himself with a community's destiny in his hands. Cooper has never been a man to settle in one place and Thunder Point was supposed to be just another quick stop. But Cooper finds himself getting involved with the town. And with Darah Dupre, a woman as complicated as she is beautiful. With the whole town watching for his next move, Cooper has to choose between his old life and a place full of new possibilities. A place that just might be home.
38. "SUMMERLAND" by Elin Hilderbrand (A++++) A perfect summer night ends in a deadly crash - and four lives are changed forever. On a warm June evening, the students of Nantucket High gather for the traditional graduation bonfire on the beach. But the celebration ends in tragedy after a horrible car crash leaves the driver, Penny Alistair, dead and her twin brother, Hobby, in a coma. Penny's boyfriend, Jake and her friend Demeter are unhurt but haunted by the events of that night and by the questions that linger about what happened in the car - and what happened in the dunes before Penny took the wheel. For Zoe, the twins' mother, the unthinkable awaits: life without her daughter and an agonizing recovery for the son who had been a star athlete with infinite prospects. Free-spirited Zoe has been as much friend as mother to her children, but now she must face devastating truths about them and about her own role in all that happened. As summer unfolds, Zoe and the other parents have to ask whether their efforts to protect their children from life's realities have only left them more vulnerable. The key to understanding the accident lies in what Penny learned that evening on the beach - but will it also destroy the survivors' fragile peace?
39. "THE GUY NEXT DOOR" (Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor #1) "READY, SET, JETT" by Lori Foster (A++++) A vacation from her no-strings romance with her sexy next-door neighbor. That's what Natalie Alexander needs to get her head - and heart - together. But her solo trip south turns into a disaster when gorgeous Jett Sutter turns up with another challenge. "GAIL'S GONE WILD" by  Susan Donovan (A++++) Single mom Gail Chapman insists on chaperoning her teenage daughter's spring-break trip to Key West. But she never expects to face temptation - in the hunky form of Jesse Batista, the mysterious man in the cottage next door. "JUST ONE TASTE" by Victoria Dahl (Donovan Brothers Brewery prequel) (A+++) All-work-and-no-play businessman Eric Donovan won't be distracted by a "businesswoman" who's all wrong for him. Beth Cantrell owns a women's erotica shop! And she has a juicy little secret. Can she tempt him to put pleasure before business for once?

Currently Reading -

1. "Bungalow Nights" (Beach House No. 9 #2) by Christie Ridgway
2. "Fated" by Carly Phillips (Serendipity #3) (Kindle)

Currently Listening to -

1. "Notorious Nineteen" by Janet Evanovich (Stephanie Plum #19) (Unabridged Audio CD)

Finished:  Mariner's Compass by Earlene Fowler  --- 6th in the Bennie Harper series.  This time Bennie is on the trail of another mystery, only it's not a murder. Interesting story line, lets the reader in on some of Bennie's background. Fun series, easy read.

Longshot by Dick Francis  --- If you've never read any of Dick Francis' books, you are in for a treat.  He is undoubtably one of the very best mystery writers ever. This book deals somewhat with his usual theme of horse racing/jumping, etc., but the main character is a writer hired by a horse trainer to write his biography.  As usual Francis has the reader hooked from the very beginning and the plot just keeps getting more involved.  It's a book that will keep you turning the pages to the very end.

The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry  --- I really enjoyed The Amber Room and The Romanov Prophecy by Berry, but I didn't care for this one. The story line was very convoluted, lots of repetition, too many dates to try to keep straight and the premise of the story went against everything I believe. I finished it only because I had to find out how it ended...did the 'good guys' win?

 Bull's Island by Dorothea Benton Frank  --- A very entertaining read by one of my favorite authors.  This was a little more light-hearted than some of Frank's books, but still deals with Charleston and the Low Country of South Carolina. I love that area of the country and she makes it really come to life with her characters and descriptions. A fun read.

 Ill Wind by Nevada Barr  --- Third in the Anna Pigeon series.  Park Ranger Anna Pigeon helps investigate the mysterious illnesses making people sick in Mesa Verde National Park, then a temporay park ranger is found dead. Interesting series, lots of information about Mesa Verde along with a well-plotted story. Anna is in a different park in each book.

 The Passions of Chelsea Kane by Barbara Delinsky --- This is one of those books that keep you up half the night! Chelsea Kane is a successful architect who's searching for her adoptive parents after receiving a mysterious key from her deceased mother's attorney. Her journey takes her to a small town in New Hampshire where she hope to discover the truth about who she really is. An intriging plot, likable characters and a love story...who could ask for more? 

Standoff by Sandra Brown    --- A quick read.  One of Sandra Brown's better books, I think. The plot was interesting, believable characters and not an over-abundance of sex.   TV reporter Tiel McCoy is caught in the middle of a hostage standoff, literally, when she finds herself held hostage along with 6 other people.  The hostage takers are not ones the reader would expect.

 The Man With a Load of Mischief by Martha Grimes  --- I know this series has been around for a long time, but I've just discovered it...and I love it!  Inspector Richard Jury from New Scotland Yard is a delight.  He's witty, charming and a very good detective. I've got others in this series to read and I'm hoping Melrose Plant features in more of them.  They make a formidable team. Together they solve several murders in a small hamlet in England.  I love the names the English have given their towns, roads, etc...even their pubs: re: The Man With A Load of Mischief!

Savage Run by C.J. Box  -- The second one in the Joe Pickett series and it is just as good as the first one..Open Season.  Joe is up against environmentalists and 2 men hunting them down and killing them.  A tense, well-written plot that keeps the reader turning the pages. 

Currently Reading:  Where Trouble Sleeps by Clyde Edgerton  &  Cat on a Blue Monday by Carole Nelson Douglas   

Up Next: 

Currently reading The Shadow Wife  by Diane Chamberlain, and listening to The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian.

I like to keep a mix of something easy and contemporary and something historical.  I am reading Diane Chamberlainright after another one by her which is unusual for me, I don’t like to read authors books back to back.

Finished:

The Perks of a Wallflower Stephen Chbosky

The Salt Letters Christine Balint

The Signal Ron Carlson

Bellfield Hall Anna Dean

Life in the Balance Thomas Graboys

The Anatomy of a Disappearance Hisham Matar

All My Patients Have Tales Jeff Wells

The Best of Me Nicholas Sparks

Blue Collar B&B Bobby Hutchinson

Fifty Days of Solitude Doris Grumbach

My Abandonment Peter Rock

Downstairs the Queen is Knitting Dorcas Smucker

Operating Instructions Anne Lamott

Murder of a Barbie and Ken Denise Swanson

Catfish Alley Lynne Bryant

MWF seeking BFF Rachel Bertsche

The Sweet Life Lynn York

A Year By the Sea Joan Anderson

Under the Paw Tom Cox

True Sisters Sandra Dallas

I just finished two very military novels.  I don't usually read this type of book but found the material heavy, but very interesting going: 

 Finished

• News from Heaven: The Bakerton Stories by Jennifer Haigh
• The Nine by Jeffrey Toobin
• We Live in Water by Jess Walter
• After Visiting Friends by Michael Hainey
• Suspect by Robert Crais
• Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
• The Dinner by Herman Koch

Currently Reading

• We Had It So Good by Linda  Grant

Listening To

• The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro

Recently Added to Wishlist

• Ten White Geese:  A Novel :: Gerbrand Bakker
• The Silent House :: Orhan Pamuk

Reading

My Life by Bill Clinton

Finished

The Winter Queen by Boris Akunin - Russian language mystery set in 1890's Russia but written in 1998. I liked the writing style and the dedication to the times, our young hero's embarassment over seeing a naked shoulder was cute, and the mystery went along really well until near the end. I didn't like the way things wrapped up, and I thought the ending didn't match our hero's smarts. I knew what was going to happen on the last page and I'm no genius, he should have too. That is really my only complaint, I enjoyed the reading and the characters.

Carry On Jeeves by P G Wodehouse - I have seen all of the British tv series based on the books so I wasn't expecting anything new but I was pleasantly surprised to find they hadn't done all of the stories. These tales are told as the reminiscences of the hapless Bertie Wooster, who is a young British man living in New York for the most part due to the generosity of a wealthy aunt. He doesn't really do anything except dine but the rweal character in these works is his valet Jeeves, who is nothing less than a genius. Bertie tends to get himself into a very l;ot of trouble and Jeeves is always at hand to bail him and his friends out of their messes. A lot of fun, and a nice look at a lifestyle past.

Lang by Kjell Westo - Written in Finnish, it is the tale of a difficult love affair between some dark and troubled people that ends badly. It is subtitled 'a novel of suspence' but I didn't find it suspenceful at all. It was a good book, just not particularly surprising. From the very beginning you know that someone has been killed but you don't know exactly who until the very end. Lang is the lead character, a talkshow host and novelist approaching a downturn in his career. He meets a youn ger woman who helps drag him out of his stagnant and unhappy life but then drags him back down into different problems. Pretty interesting story.

The Diva Runs Out Of Thyme by Krista Davis - I've been surprised by a couple cozies lately, maybe the first couple I read were just bad but the last few have been a lot better. Quick read, finished it in 24 hours (I was hurrying a little for the book club) but if it weren't enjoyable I couldn't have done it that fast. Quick pace, no boring parts. Pretty good mystery even if the ending was pretty tame. Typical of cozies though, you can only get so spectacular before you push the boundaries of the cozy rules. I gave it a solid 4, definitely worth a further look at the series.

Mr Big by Don Arden - Memoir by Sharon Osborne's father who was a music promoter and the 'Godfather of Rock and Roll' in the UK. It's a very interesting tale of his youth as a performer, stint in the army, and the creation of the music business. He was in it from the ground floor, and was a self-described thug. He talks about mafia connections later in his career and tells a couple tales where he really hurt a couple people. One guy he really messed up in UK and was prosecuted for it but he got off. The only problem is I get the feeling you can't believe a lot of what he says. Maybe he paints too good a picture, of how he did everything right and knew everything and could predict everything. He does discuss a couple times he blew it but either he's the luckiest SOB alive or some of his stories are not quite the truth.

Catching Fire: How cooking made us human by Richard Wrangham - I was already in the believer camp for cooking being a major evolutionary step, that's what attracted me to this book. Now I know how to prove it, lol. Very, very thorough study of how cooking food affected the development of man not only physically but socially and economically. The book finished at the 56% mark on the kindle and I was like "what?" but the rest was page after page of references and study links. Very well researched and cited.

Lord Emsworth and Others by P G Wodehouse - A collection of tales in typical Wodehousian style where the hero is hapless but always comes out ahead in the end usually by dumb luck.

The Caller by Karin Fossum - A good story but light on the mystery. It's the kind where you know all along who done it, the chapters alternate between the antagonist's p.o.v. and the victim's. There are a few ends that are never tied though, they seem to be related to everything else but it's never made clear whether they are or not. Lots of questions left at the end, which is kind of typical of her. This is part of a series so some of the questions about the detective may be answered but I don't see coming back to any of the other characters in subsequent books so if unsolved incidents bother you than skip this one. If you can handle that it was a really good book.

Service With A Smile by P G Wodehouse - Typical crazy romp from Wodehouse, where no one has any idea what is going on and everyone has their own agenda but it all works out in the end, somehow.

Gangsta Granny by David Walliams - A YA book written by one of Britain's comedians least likely to do so. It's about valuing your grandparents while you can and being what you want to be. Very cute and funny.

The Second City: Unscripted by Mike Thomas - An history of the improv theater Second City, started in Chicago but spread to several other cities. A lot of really famous comedians came thrpugh Second City but the intervies and stories are much more about the hundreds of other performers you've never heard of. Not much at all about it's most famous citizens, especially John Belushi. There's a little, but not much. Basically it's a detailed description of the lives and careers of a bunch of people you've never heard of unless you are a serious Second City follower. Interesting for the history but not so good on the popular performers.

Black Orchids by Rex Stout - Two stories lightly connected by the appearance of some exclusive black orchids. Excellent typical Nero Wolfe mysteries, quick going due to there being 2 of them in the one book.

Cup Of Gold by John Steinbeck - The story of the pirate Sir Henry Morgan, who started a slave, terrorized the sea in the 1600's, and ultimately became a Lord. Quite different from the Steinbeck I'm used to be a good departure. Historical fiction, there are plenty of true facts but a bit of novelization too.

The Canterville Ghost by Oscar Wilde - A delightful, witty ghost story. Short, very short, but full. A sad old ghost is haunting an English manor that has recently been purchased by an American family. They both are in for a surprise or two.

Seinlanguage by Jerry Seinfeld - It's pretty much a bunch of comedy books written down. No form or continuity, just a bunch of bits. Funny, but a bit disjointed.

The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore - Humorous, horror tinged Christmas story. How can you go wrong with that? A rather stupid angel is sent down to grant the Christmas miracle request of a child and gravely misunderstands the request.

Fun And Games by Duane Swierczynski - A hapless, damaged housesitter collides with a washed up actress on the run for her life. It's very much like Lindsay Lohan runs into Bruce Willis. It's a bit of a "you must suspend belief to enjoy it" story because it's like some of the characters have 9 lives but it was really quite good, more of a thriller than a mystery it only lets up once near the middle when it goes a little too long into explaining back story. Constant action, would honestly make a good Bruce Willis movie.

I Killed by Ritch Shyder and Mark Schiff - A compilation of road stories from a bunch of comedians, some famous, most not really. Lots of funny and crazy tales, it makes you both envious of their adventures and glad you didn't have to be a stand up comedian.

Mr Monster by Dan Wells - Book 2 in a series about a boy who ends up killing some demons. The boy is a budding serial killer himself trying very hard to keep his inner "Mr Monster" under control so he doesn't hurt anyone, so when people start ending up dead in his little town he's the perfect guy to figure out what the killer is thinking. Simple stories but entertaining none the less. He spends a little too much time philosophising about the struggle between good and bad but the rest of it is good.

Reading

Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

Book Group:  

Finished:

  FinishedF   Everybody See's the Ants~A.S. King: A YA novel about bullying and results of it. Excellently written story which portrays a very intelligent response to the bully issue. Also very interesting cameo story about the POW/MIA issue as it relates to the present.

New: *The new choice for the group above is Cutting for Stone~Abraham Vergese (sp?)

My other group chose The Kitchen House~Kathleen Grissom which I already read a few months ago, with high praise! 

The Thirteenth Tale~Diane Setterfield: Storytelling gluttony, Gothic and exciting! Reading for the Basement Book Group on this site and loving it. 

Kindle:

Austerlitz~W.G. Sebold: Story about a man who uncovers his identity and memories of being a child of the Kindertransport during the Holocaust years. A bit dry at the beginning yet the characters in conversation bring up some very intriguing points about war and defense.   

Mystery/Thriller/Horror:

Darkness take my Hand~Dennis Lehane: Psychological thriller, just started but if it's like the others, I know I will love it!

Instance of the Fingerpost~Iain Pears: Historical/Mystery, a carryover from my Feb. list. time gets away but I still intend on getting onto it!

Civil War List:

Cloudsplitter~Russel Banks: Speculative history of Owen Brown, last surviving son of John Brown, political terrorist and martyr in the years before the Civil War!

Wild Card:

Undecided as of yet: My rule is that this is a random choice that I have invested at least 50 pages in: Will let you know when I know!  

I am reading Misstress in the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin.  I loved Medicus by Ruth Downie and this is even better.  More detail, more characters and great murder mystery. 

I just finished the first Harry Hole book by Jo Nesbo (The Bat) -   It was good!  Not OMG great, but I've heard the series gets better.  I have no idea if I can find the 2nd book in the series though.  I don't think it's been translated to English yet?

Recently read "Rules of Civility" by Amour Towles. I really loved it as did most of my book club. Loved the author's style of writing. Just finished "In the Garden of Beasts". It was a little dry at times but generally good and I am glad I read it. Am currently reading "Sisters from Hardscrabble Bay". Just started it last night and so far, so good.

I just finished My Thoughts Be Bloody by Nora Titone.  It's about the Booth family - as in John Wilkes Booth - and how their rivalries might have pushed JWB to do what he did.  Pretty interesting book.

I'm now going in a completely different direction and starting Belwether by Connie Willis.

Rhonda the 2nd Harry Hole book hasn't been translated. I love Jo Nesbo but read The Bat well after most of the others. Compared to the later books I thought The Bat sucked.

Thanks for all the great reading ideas!

I am currently reading The Way We Live Now, by Anthony Trollope (I always have to have a Trollope going), and just finished The Penultimate Chance Saloon, by Simon Brett, an old favorite author known to me mostly for his Charles Paris mysteries.

I have heard from my librarian friend that the Harry Hole books are good.  Thanks for the reminder.

I love hearing about what other people are reading- it's one of the reasons I joined PBS.

Finished: Death Match by Lincoln Child- definitely not his best; White Smoke by Andrew Greeley- interesting and appropriate, given that it's about a papal election, Kushiel's Avatar by Jacqueline Carey- reread, because I picked up the flu; Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins- another reread.

Currently reading: American Massacre by Sally Denton, Wicked Bugs: I don't have it with me, so I don't remember who wrote it- it's in my substitute bag; and Inflating a Dog by Eric Kraft

Up Next: I don't know yet. I have so many TBR books that I'll probably just pick one off the shelf on a whim. :)

I am finishing The Last Centurian by John Ringo.  It is a post apocalyptic view of what happens due to Bird Flu Plague.  Obama must have just been elected.  I give it 3.99 stars.  It was a little hard to read how us granola bunnies are the reason for the mess.  But also interesting to read this person's point of view about the world.  I actually learned a lot.

I'm reading some NF at the moment, one book about the comedy club/show/troupe Second City and one about how cooking made us human. The cooking one is really good, and anyone who is thinking of going raw needs to read it.

Finished Bellwether by Connie Willis, which I enjoyed very much.  Yesterday I received Riders on the Storm by John Densmore from a fellow PBSer and finished it today - it was a quick and enjoyable read.  It was part of my Doors trilogy this year, the others being No One Gets Out of Here Alive by Danny Sugerman and Jerry Hopkins, and Light My Fire by Ray Manzarek.

Now I'm going light with a cozy - A Stitch in Crime by Betty Hechtman.

Okay, I finished The Secret Keeper, which as really good and then  My Horizontal Life A Collection of One-Night Stands and I just started A Knight in Shining Armor and it seems light but really good so far.  I am listening to Mrs. Tom Thumb and reading it on my kindle so I am making fast progress in that, although I don’t love it.  I hope to have a chance to read more over Easter vacation.

I'm reading Doc by Mary Doria Russell. It is about Doc Holliday and it is worth reading but not earth shattering...

I am reading the third book in Adriana Franklin's Mistress of the Art of Death Series.  Great historical fiction.  I am really enjoying the books and all the characters.

I just finished Beautiful Boy, David Sheff's memoir about his son's descent into drug addiction.  Absolutely beautifully written.  Haunting, gripping, sad and raw.  Sometimes even hopeful and funny.  I couldn't put it down.