Bound by Your Touch - Meredith Duran

Publication
Pocket Books, July 2009

In short
Silver-tongued Viscount Sanburne is London's favorite scapegrace. Alas, Lydia Boyce has no interest in being charmed. When his latest escapade exposes a plot to ruin her family, she vows to handle it herself, as she always has done. Certainly she requires no help from a too-handsome dilettante whose main achievement is being scandalous. But Sanburne's golden charisma masks a sharper mind and darker history than she realizes. He shocks Lydia by breaking past her prim facade to the woman beneath... and the hidden fire no man has ever recognized. But as she follows him into a world of intrigue, she will learn that the greatest danger lies within - in the shadowy, secret motives of his heart.

In words
It took me a little while to get into this book. I found Sanburne a bit hard to like at first, as I thought he took his feelings of guilt a bit to far, which probably was the purpose of the author. But in the end I did understand and like him, and believed in their HEA. All characters are full of depth, even the not so nice ones, and the story itself sucked me in as well. Again a great book by Meredith Duran.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 11
A- = 9/10 = 4.5 stars

Because You're Mine - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
1997, Avon, Capitol Theater #2

In short
Lady Madeline Matthews would rather shame herself than sacrifice her freedom - which is why, to avoid a marriage to an aging, lecherous lord, she seeks out the company of Logan Scott. A torrid affair with the notorious womanizer would surely condemn her in the eyes of good society.
Though a legend in the bedchamber, Logan is in truth an intensely private man tormented by past betrayals. Now a forward little minx is disrupting his life with her vibrant charm and unspoiled beauty, a high-spirited enchantress completely at sea in London’s sophisticated whirl. But when what begins with a kiss threatens to blossom into something more rapturous and real, will Logan and Madeline have the courage to drop the masks they hide behind in the name of love?

In words
After reading the first one in this series, I hoped I would like this one better and fortunately I did, although it still wasn't up to LK's usual standard, IMO. I was intrigued by Logan in the 1st book, but he didn't entirely live up to it in this book. Nice read, but nothing special.

In numbers
Voice - 2 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 8
B = 7.5/10 = 3.5 stars

Somewhere I'll Find You - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
1996, Avon, Capitol Theatre #1

In short
All London is at Julia Wentworth's feet. The beautiful, enchanting actress is the toast of the theatre world - and anything she desires is hers for the asking. But the incomparable leading lady guards a devastating secret: a mystery husband whom she does not know, dares not mention... and cannot love.
For years Damon Savage has been searching for the stranger his unscrupulous parents wed him to without his consent. Wanting no more than to be legally rid of the foolish chit, Damon is shocked to discover his ‘bride’ is the exquisite stage performer whom he intended to make his mistress! But though his wife by law, Julia will never truly be Damon's - until he conquers her fears, his formidable rivals... and the stellar lady's proud, independent heart.

In words
I'm in shock: I did not like it! That is to say, not as much as all the other LK books I've read. The plot was okay and the style was just as good as always. I think it's mainly because of Damon - I just couldn't like him and had no idea why he - suddenly it seems - decided he loved Julia. I don't believe in a HEA for them at all. I'm almost waiting for him to leave her or ask her to give up the theater after all..

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 1 (max 3)
Romance - 0 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 6
C = 6.5/10 = 3 stars

So Still the Night - Kim Lenox

Publication
2009, Signet

In short
Marcus Helios was a member of the Shadow Guard until one reckless act changed it all, bringing him to the edge of madness. His hope for salvation lies in a cryptic message contained within two cryptic scrolls he believes to be in the possession of an enigmatic beauty named Mina. And Mina is not about to hand over the scrolls' secrets to a total stranger.
But someone else has designs on the mysterious relics, and on Mark: Jack the Ripper's jilted bride. Her malevolent embrace will trap everyone within reach, and her dark plans will challenge the powers of all she is destined to destroy.

In words
I like this world, especially in combination with the historical setting. I like the first book in the series better (grade A), but this is still a very nice book, with an interesting plot, and I will certainly keep reading this series.

In numbers
Voice - 2 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
World-building - 1
No minus points
Total - 9
B = 8/10 = 4 stars

Never Lie to a Lady - Liz Carlyle

Publication
2007, Pocket Books

In short
The notorious Marquis of Nash is a creature of the night; his wealth and his title provide but a tenuous entrée into polite society. With his Eastern European manners and dark elegance, Nash tempts women even as he tempts the scandalmongers. Rumors abound of the men he has bankrupted and the hearts he has broken. But when Nash leaves his lair for a rare foray into the ton, and enjoys a moment of heated passion with a mysterious lady in the dark, he develops an obsession which will lead him into the hellish world of smugglers, spies, and political intrigue as the Continent edges nearer to war.
Xanthia Neville has arrived in London to expand her family’s most lucrative business holding - Neville Shipping. With her brother Rothewell all too happy to waste his life in debauchery, Xanthia opens up shop in London’s grimy Docklands, and sets about expanding the family fortune, all the while flaunting the ton’s silly strictures about how a lady ought to behave. But London, she soon learns, is not Barbados. And when the British Government approaches Rothewell to ask the family’s help in exposing a dangerous arms dealer, Xanthia must enter society after all, only to find her loyalties torn. Someone in London is fueling the conflict on the Balkan Peninsula by smuggling illicit weapons into the Aegean - and there is only one likely suspect. The Marquis of Nash has the resources, the contacts and, quite possibly, the deeply divided loyalties. But can Xanthia’s subterfuge prove him a traitor to the Crown before her heart is broken?

In words
After enjoying several other novels by Liz Carlyle I was sadly disappointed by this one. There were a few plot points which I found a bit hard to believe but - worse - the whole book seemed stand-offish, I could not feel a connection with anyone or the story, even though the plot itself was alright. I did get to know Xanthia a bit, but Nash not at all and therefore can't truly believe in their relationship. A certain sex scene makes this book a 'hot' one, but to me it felt totally out of place and almost turned it into a D-. I'll give it the benefit of the doubt, it's not a bad book, but it just doesn't work for me.

In numbers
Voice - 1 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 1 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
No minus points
Total - 5
C- = 6/10 = 3 stars

To Seduce a Sinner - Elizabeth Hoyt

Publication
2009, The Legend of the Four Soldiers, #2

In short
THE ONE THING HE CANNOT REVEAL
For years, Melisande Fleming has loved Lord Vale from afar... watching him seduce a succession of lovers, and once, catching a glimpse of heartbreaking depths beneath his roguish veneer. When he’s jilted on his wedding day, she boldly offers to be his.
TO THE ONE WOMAN HE MOST DESIRES
Vale gladly weds Melisande, if only to produce an heir. But he’s pleasantly surprised: A shy and proper Lady by day, she’s a wanton at night, giving him her body - though not her heart.
IS HIS DEEPEST NEED...
Determined to learn her secrets, this sinner starts to woo his seductive new wife - while hiding the nightmares from his soldiering days in the Colonies that still haunt him. Yet when a deadly betrayal from the past threatens to tear them apart, Lord Vale must bare his soul to the woman he married... or risk losing her forever.

In words
Again a seriously tortured hero. So far this series is like a relay race where the batons are smoothly handed over to the next runner, without being dropped or rudely smacked into the next hand: from heroine to heroine (the fairy tale book), from hero to hero (discovering who the real traitor was), and from villain to villain. I want to pace myself and not read the books too soon after one another, but I'm not sure how long I can hold out - I wanted to get started on the next one straight after finishing this one.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 11
A- = 9/10 = 4,5 stars

Tempt Me at Twilight - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
2009, Hathaways #3

In short
Poppy Hathaway loves her unconventional family, though she longs for normalcy. Then fate leads to a meeting with Harry Rutledge, an enigmatic hotel owner and inventor with wealth, power, and a dangerous hidden life. When their flirtation compromises her own reputation, Poppy shocks everyone by accepting his proposal - only to find that her new husband offers his passion, but not his trust. Harry was willing to do anything to win Poppy - except to open his heart. All his life, he has held the world at arm’s length... but the sharp, beguiling Poppy demands to be his wife in every way that matters. Still, as desire grows between them, an enemy lurks in the shadows. Now if Harry wants to keep Poppy by his side, he must forge a true union of body and soul, once and for all...

In words
Harry is now one of my favorite heroes, he is portrayed wonderfully. The one quibble I have with this book is Poppy, who somehow remained a bit flat. The book is full of humor, amongst others because of various animals. The other Hathaways are of course also present, but in a pleasant way.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 11
A- = 9/10 = 4,5 stars

The Wedding Wager - Deborah Hale

Publication
2001, Harlequin

In short
School For Love...Or School For Scandal?
What had she agreed to? Leonora Freemantle had wagered high stakes that book learning, not birthright produced a gentleman, but now with the roguish Sergeant Morse Archer under her tutelage, she was no longer sure of the outcome. Would it be polish, passion...or public outrage?
If Leonora Freemantle couldn't spruce him up enough to pass muster with the Society swells at Bath, she'd be hastily married off. But not if he could help it, Rifleman Morse Archer vowed, for this beautiful bluestocking with her highbrow ideals and innocent charm was effortlessly teaching him the true language of love...!

In words
I know a lot of books are not entirely correct in a historical context, but this time I could not let it go. The whole plot and therefore all characters are utterly unbelievable. Furthermore, the characters are cardboard and do not develop. I don't get the romance either.

In numbers
Voice - 1 (max 3)
Characters - 1 (max 3)
Romance - 0 (max 2)
Plot - 0 (max 2)
No minus points
Total - 2
D- = 4.5/10 = 2 stars

With Seduction in Mind - Laura Lee Guhrke

I wasn't gone, but my router was, thanks to a thunderstorm... Almost a week without telephone and internet, I couldn't believe how hard that was. Now several reviews straight after one another.

Publication
2009, Avon Historical Romance, Girl-Bachelors # 4

In short
HER PROPOSITION . . .
London Society is harsh for a young woman with no family connections who has to work for a living. But when Daisy Merrick is sacked from yet another job, the feisty and outspoken miss comes up with a plan that could give her a future beyond her wildest dreams. There's only one problem. Her success depends on a man, the most infuriating, impossible, immovable man she's ever met.
HIS RESOLUTION . . .
Sebastian Grant, Earl of Avermore, is England's most infamous author. Known for his notorious reputation, he is more interested in play than work, and has no intention of cooperating when Daisy shows up on his doorstep with a mad plan. The provoking, fire-haired beauty stirs his senses beyond belief, and Sebastian knows he has only one way to stop her. Seduction.

In words
Nothing very special about it, but also nothing wrong with it. It is just a very enjoyable read.

In numbers
Voice - 2 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 9
B = 8/10 = 4 stars

Miss Wonderful - Loretta Chase

Publication
2004, Carsington Brothers #1

In short
Alistair Carsington really, really wishes he didn’t love women quite so much. To escape his worst impulses, he sets out for a place far from civilization: Derbyshire - in winter! - where he hopes to kill two birds with one stone: avoid all temptation, and repay the friend who saved his life on the fields of Waterloo. But this noble aim drops him straight into opposition with Miss Mirabel Oldridge, a woman every bit as intelligent, obstinate, and devious as he - and maddeningly irresistible.
Mirabel Oldridge already has her hands full keeping her brilliant and aggravatingly eccentric father out of trouble. The last thing she needs is a stunningly attractive, oversensitive and overbright aristocrat reminding her she has a heart - not to mention a body he claims is so unstylishly clothed that undressing her is practically a civic duty.
Could the situation be any worse? And why does something that seems so wrong feel so very wonderful?

In words
What a wonderful book. I think the way Alistair tries to deal with his war trauma - his obsession with clothes - is so cleverly written. The relationship between Alistair and Mirabel is so believable. Part of the plot (about the steward) could have been left out, but the entire book is so good and rich - great characters, humor, witty conversations - that I simply don't care. As a whole, the Carsingtons are one of my favorite series and I reread them every year.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 12
A = 9,5/10 = 5 stars

Not Quite a Lady - Loretta Chase

Publication
May 2007, Avon Historical Romance, 978-0-06-123123-0
Carsington Brothers #4

In short

IRRESISTIBLE FORCE
Darius Carsington is a spectacularly handsome rake with a rare intelligence and no heart, a man who divides his time between bedding loose-moralled women and writing scholarly papers. He finds society's “perfect darlings”... exceedingly boring. But there’s something intriguing, and not quite perfect, about faultless Lady Charlotte Hayward. He senses a crack under her polished surface, and finding it is a temptation he can’t resist.

IMMOVABLE OBJECT
Lady Charlotte is so beautiful, charming, and gracious that no one has noticed what an expert she is at Not Getting Married. Early on, she learned a painful lesson about trust... and temptation. In the years since, she’s devoted her life to all she ought to be - and she’s not about to let a man like Carsington entice her to do everything she shouldn’t.

A SPLENDID COLLISION
But the laws of attraction can easily overpower the rules of manners and morals, and sometimes even the best-behaved girl has to follow her instincts, even if it means risking it all.

In words
I have no idea what it is with this one compared to the other three in the series, but it is lacking something for me. The biggest problem I have is with Darius: I cannot seem to 'get' him. His character, his person remains somewhat unclear to me and therefore the romance seems to be suffering too. For the rest, again great writing and humor.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 1 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Special setting - 0
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 10
B+ = 9,5/10 = 4,5 stars

Lord Perfect - Loretta Chase

Publication
March 2006, Berkley, 978-0425-20888-5
Carsington Brothers #3

In short

IDEAL
The heir to the Earl of Hargate, Benedict Carsington, Viscount Rathbourne, is the perfect aristocrat. Tall, dark, and handsome, he is known for his impeccable manners and good breeding. Benedict knows all the rules and has no trouble following them - until she enters his life...

INFAMOUS
Bathsheba Wingate belongs to the rotten branch of the DeLucey family: a notorious lot of liars, frauds, and swindlers. Small wonder her husband’s high-born family disowned him. Now widowed, she’s determined to give her daughter a stable life and a proper upbringing. Nothing and no one will disrupt Bathsheba’s plans - until he enters her life…

SCANDALOUS
Then Bathsheba’s hoyden daughter lures Benedict’s precocious nephew into a quest for a legendary treasure. To recover the would-be knights errant, Benedict and Bathsheba must embark on a rescue mission that puts them in dangerous, intimate proximity - a situation virtually guaranteed to end in mayhem - even scandal! - if anyone else were involved. But Benedict is in perfect control of events. Perfect control, despite his mad desire to break all the rules. Perfect control. Really.

In words
Usually I don't like romances with children playing a large role, but this is one of the very few exceptions. Again, a book full of great humor, witty conversations, and wonderful characters. I fully believe in the relationship between Batsheba and Benedict, and how they interact with the children. And this is also one of the few 'road regencies' I've read.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Special setting - 0
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 12
A = 9,5/10 = 5 stars

Mr. Impossible - Loretta Chase

Publication
March 2005, Berkley, 978-0425201503
Carsington Brothers #2

In short
IMPOSSIBLE...
Rupert Carsington, fourth son of the Earl of Hargate, is his aristocratic family's favorite disaster. He is irresistibly handsome, shockingly masculine, and irretrievably reckless, and wherever he goes, trouble follows. Still, Rupert's never met an entanglement - emotional or other - he couldn't escape. Until now.
OUTRAGEOUS...
Now he's in Egypt, stranded in the depths of Cairo's most infamous prison, and his only way out is accepting a beautiful widow's dangerous proposal. Scholar Daphne Pembroke wants him to rescue her brother, who's been kidnapped by a rival seeking a fabled treasure. Their partnership is strictly business: she'll provide the brains, he, the brawn. Simple enough in theory.
INEVITABLE...
Blame it on the sun or the blazing desert heat, but as tensions flare and inhibitions melt, the most disciplined of women and the most reckless of men are about to clash in the most impossibly irresistible way.

In words
One of the best heroes ever written, IMO. When you finish a book and want to reread it straightaway, it's a winner. I cannot get enough of this book, so I wanted to start my blog with it. It is full of great humor, has witty conversations, all characters are wonderfully written and I fully believe in the relationship between Daphne and Rupert. And how nice to have a story that's completely set in Egypt.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 3 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Special setting - 1
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 13
A+ = 10/10 = 5 stars