Paisley Scott is one author we really enjoy around the holidays, because lately she has been turning out some real holiday gems!! Not only did we LOVE her Halloween romance, The Pirate and the Pussycat, but now we have a new holiday obsession- Secret Santa 4U! After you pick up your copy of Secret Santa 4U, check out how to enter Paisley's contest for some great prizes!
Secret Santa 4U Paisley Scott Wild Rose Press eBook 39 Pages Contemporary Romance Holiday- Christmas
Sophie is about to spend what looks like will be her loneliest Christmas yet. While being a single thirty-something librarian does little for her self-esteem, her recent forays into adult singles chat rooms have given her a boost. Not just a boost in self-esteem, but also in her sex life, even if it just consists of herself in front of the computer. So when a Christmas Eve storm delivers a very sexy Secret Santa right to her door, will she be able to shed the safety of her computer, and have the courage to accept the gifts he has for her?
Once again, Paisley Scott delivers a fantastic holiday story that any romance reader will love. Secret Santa 4U is a charming little Christmas story that is as light-hearted as it is steamy. You will be cheering for Sophie as she finds that love can be found in the most unexpected places. The author gives plenty of hints as to the identity of the Secret Santa, but the fun is the anticipation of when and how all will be revealed to Sophie. Secret Santa 4U is a seasonal romance you’ll want to pull out and read every Christmas. So if you’re looking for a fun and sexy holiday romp, Paisley Scott won’t let you down!
-Mandy Briggs Rogues and Romance
Heat Rating: *4- Cupid's Aphrodisiac Arrow
Violence Rating: *0- No Violence
Official Blurb: Christmas was always the loneliest holiday for Sophie Mulligan. But at least this year, her sex life was fabulous! Too bad it was only online. Then, on Christmas Eve, a sudden snowstorm sends her Secret Santa to her doorstep and Sophie finds herself on his naughty list.
The Greek Rule was the first book I had read by fantastic author Aleka Nakis, and I have since devoured Eyes of the Dead, and from here on out, will read ANYTHING with her name attached to it! Her characters are always real with sizzling connections- but the absolute best thing about her books is that she paints the setting in the readers mind to such perfection, you really feel like you've gone on a vacation.
Athena has worked hard building a name for herself under her boss’ corporation and she is ready to strike out on her own. It’s been her dream to build her own resort, and she has a fabulous location all picked out. The only problem is she has a little competition in her bid for the property. Okay, she has BIG competition, Alexandros Strintzaris, a well-known bachelor and business tycoon. He’s successful, he’s deliciously handsome, and he’s Athena’s one dating no-no: he’s Greek. But between an unexpected meeting at a charity ball and a wedding that has the two keeping close company; Athena is realizing she’s in danger of losing a lot more than her resort property…
The Greek Rule is a beautiful story that will sweep you away with superb imagery of exotic locales, fantastic characters, and a love story that will warm you all the way to your toes. Athena is a beautiful, intelligent businesswoman, and Alexandros is the perfect man to break down Athena’s stereotypes of the Greek playboy. The attraction between Alexandros and Athena is nothing short of electric, and you will love the interaction between the two. In The Greek Rule, Aleka Nakis infuses a rich cultural influence with a lush setting that’ll have you packing your bags for Santorini!
Official Blurb: Ambitious and beautiful Athena Lakis has one simple rule… No romance with a Greek.
In theory, this tenet should be easy to keep. After all, reaching for her life long dream to own and operate a prestigious hotel on prime seaside property in Greece, she has her hands full. The major hurdle being her drop-dead gorgeous competition: Greek tycoon Alexandros Strintzaris.
Alexandros has his sights set on more than just a real estate deal. He wants Athena, and he always gets what he wants. When he discovers she is the one outbidding him on the resort, will he feel the same?
From a Naples ballroom, to the exotic island of Santorini, Alexandros and Athena learn when it comes to affairs of the heart, there are always exceptions to the rule.
When I came across Rae Lindley's Cimmerian City MySpace page, it was by far the coolest one I had seen. Not only is she a very talented artist, but I had the pleasure of discovering what a talented writer she is as well!! After you fall in love with Cimmerian City, be sure and hop over to the Cimmerian City website to grab some CC wallpapers, take a "Which character are you?" quiz, and watch a deleted scene from the book!
Cimmerian City Rae Lindley Lavender Isis Press ISBN: 0-9793674-7-6 eBook and Print 155 Pages Urban Paranormal/Futuristic Cimmerian City Series
Unknown to the general public, a war is brewing, and their world is about to be turned upside-down. A war between humans and a race most humans didn’t even know existed: the Dracins, a vampire-like race. But the Dracins are not supernatural creatures that are as old as the vampire myths. They are a race of people created by science, by late 20th century drug companies, to be exact.
After enduring a vicious attack during the Dracin emergence, Raven Blackheart wakes up ten years later to find quite a different world from what she remembers. A world divided by the two races, and run by corporations. But not only is the world different, she’s different- now half-human and half-Dracin. Her body holds the blood of the people that attacked her and killed her beloved, but that blood also gives her body unique abilities. Raven awakes to find herself provided for and mentored by one of the heads of the biggest corporation, a human that tells her she is to help bring peace between the two races. But she soon finds that there’s more behind this supposed plan for peace, and the humans can be just as cruel and deadly as the Dracin insurgents. It’s up to Raven to find out who to trust- for her life and the lives of innocents- both human and Dracin.
Cimmerian City is the first book in a series that is sure to become a fast favorite for readers. Rae Lindley has a real talent for immersing the reader in the story, revealing plenty to let you in on secrets even our heroine doesn’t know yet, but just enough to keep you guessing. The author creates a dark and fascinating setting, a perfect backdrop for the conspiracy and mystery of the story. Raven is a complex character fighting to understand herself as well as this new world around her, and the perfect heroine to act as a beacon of hope for a bleak world. Rae Lindley hits the mark with Cimmerian City, a story full of suspense, action, and the stirrings of a romance that I can’t wait to see develop later in the series.
-Mandy Rogues and Romance
Heat Rating: N/A *No Sex Scenes
Violence Rating: *4- Fire Arrow
Official Blurb: Stripped from the headlines of today's news, Cimmerian City is a novel spanning 10 years.
Greed can turn a good man’s heart to stone. This is especially true in the age of commerce and large corporations. No new pill can be taken without a laundry list of side effects that the patient may have to endure. But what if the side effects are more dangerous than the pills are helpful? What if the side effect causes the patient to be immune from standard dangers, such as firearms, the climate, etc., but causes them to change into otherworldly beings?
It is seen through the eyes of a young woman named Raven Blackheart. It is a future where corporations rule the world and political parties have been dismissed. An Earth that is recovering from a global war that has divided two races: Humans and Dracins, quick, tough skinned creatures that are children of the side effects from 20th century pharmaceuticals. Raven awakens in this world as a product of both races and nurtured by the vice president of the main corporation in the world as a symbol of the union of races. With her help, Vice President Tyler Deamond’s corporation can take both beings off Earth, which is quickly becoming a waste planet, and to a new terraformed planet. But, as Raven learns, nothing is as it seems, especially concerning humans.
I was really impressed with Rynne Raine's The Awakening. I don't read short stories very often because when I do, I always feel like it's over too fast, and I don't feel like I get closure. But The Awakening was by far the best short story I have ever read, and one I will definitely read again and recommend. Not only is the story emotional and realistic (even with the paranormal element!), it is extremely satisfying. The Awakening is especially perfect when you want the enjoyment and comfort of a wonderful romance, and want it now! Actually, this story is perfect for any time!
The Awakening Rynne Raines Wild Rose Press eBook 19 Pages Paranormal Romance
Every night, Natalie Kendrick is both titillated and tormented by her dreams. In these dreams, a man dressed in proper 19th century attire comes to her and sweeps her away in his passionate embrace. But this man is more than just a dream lover, she believes he is the man that saved her life many years ago. Every morning when she wakes, she feels the pain of his absence, and knows that she can’t continue living life for her dreams. When she seeks the help of a professional, she is given medication. Just one little pill at bedtime, and no more dreams of him. But actually going through with it is harder than she could have imagined.
Rynne Raines has written a beautiful short story that will charm itself onto your keeper list. Raine’s realistic and honest approach to storytelling is refreshing. When Natalie begins to have problems in her life because of her dreams, she does what any intelligent woman would do: she seeks professional help. The heroine is a smart, strong woman who meets her problems head-on, and I loved this aspect of the story. The Awakening delivers sensuality, suspense, realism, and an ending that while you're sad to see come, will leave you fulfilled. I am eagerly awaiting Rynne Raine’s next story!
-Mandy Rogues and Romance
Heat Rating: *4- Cupid's Aphrodisiac Arrow
Violence Rating: N/A- *No Violence
Official Blurb: Torn between fantasy and reality, Natalie Kendrick wakes each morning on fire, haunted by passionate dreams of Alexander, the nineteenth century gentleman she believes saved her life fifteen years ago. But when living outside the erotic dream world they share becomes unbearable, she seeks the help of a dream analyst. The solution seems simple: dream suppressants. But can Natalie bring herself to forever shut out the only man she has ever loved--from her head, her life and her heart?
Jade Twilight is an author who is as generous as she is talented. Judging from her blogs, she spends a good deal of time each week helping her fellow writing community by posting author interviews, excerpts, and more. If you've ever put a post together that's not just a journal entry, you will know how much time it takes. In addition to having an author spotlight on her personal blog once a week, her blog "Love Prefers Twilight to Daylight" has author interviews, excerpts, and more. She has also started a fabulous new blog, "Lycan Paradise" that features books with wolf-shifters!
Jessie's Dirty Little Secret Jade Twilight Dark Eden Press eBook 34 Pages Paranormal/Incubus
Jessie has always been very close with her Aunt Jules, so when her aunt passes away, she is left devastated. But with the loss of her aunt comes a new responsibility. She is to take over Jules’ place as mistress to Garin, an incubus. Garin has given Jessie’s family wealth and power in exchange for giving him nourishment, and now that task falls to Jessie. Garin quickly discovers that Jessie is just as insatiable as he is, and he is more than happy to help make all her fantasies a reality. But when the Horned God, the leader of the incubus and succubus, makes it known that he has been impressed with Jessie’s escapades, he presents her with a proposition. Suddenly, Jessie is faced with a decision she could have never imagined having to make, and it’s up to her to reach out for what she wants.
Jade Twilight has shown an immense talent for imagination and description in Jessie’s Dirty Little Secret. This story was fresh and fascinating, and I loved the idea of the incubus being bound to one female family member. The author has written a highly descriptive story, but leaves a little to the imagination in just the right places. The characters are intriguing, and you will especially love the scenes where Jessie pulls Garin into her world. Garin was an extremely hot and slightly devious hero, and a very sexy incubus. Jessie is a smart and sensual woman with a little bit of wildness, but whether or not the reader can relate to her, the author makes her likable and easy to empathize with. When Aunt Jules passes away, you deeply feel the love Jessie has for her aunt, as well as the grief Jessie feels over her loss.
Keep in mind that this story is rated “Intense” by Dark Eden Press, and there is some subject matter that might be a little much for some readers. However, if you aren’t easily offended, you will love the edge and rawness that Jade Twilight has put into this story. Jessie’s Dirty Little Secret is one deliciously dirty little novella!
-Mandy Rogues and Romance
Heat Rating: *5- Cupid's Whole Quiver (BDSM, one f/f scene)
Violence Rating: *2- Blunt-Tipped Arrow
Official Blurb: We all have our demons, but Jessie's is real. He's an incubus named Garin, who has served Jessie's family for centuries. Giving them wealth, privilege and power in return the women in the family feed Garin. Now it's Jessie's turn and she's proving to be just as insatiable as her demon. This catches the eye of the Horned God leader of the incubus and succubus. The question is will Jessie give up everything to satisfy her carnal desires?
Lisa Renee Jones has created a wonderful new paranormal series called The Knights of White, with a fascinating group of heroes. If you haven't tried out Harlequin's paranormal line, Silhouette Nocturne, this is the perfect book to introduce you to the line. But whether you have or haven't read Nocturne books before, The Beast Within is a book you will love, and The Knights of White is a series you can't get enough of!
The Beast Within Lisa Renee Jones Silhouette Nocturne 978-0-373-61775-3 Print and ebook 276 Pages Paranormal Romance
In the battle between good and evil, the Knights of White struggle with the Darkland Beasts for all of humanity. The leader of the Knights is Jag, a man tortured by both the beast he feels raging inside of him, and by the dreams. Since the day he was made immortal after the Darkland Beasts took his life and that of his beloved wife’s, he has felt nothing but the need for vengeance. But the dreams bring new feelings, new temptations in the form of a beautiful woman, who in these dreams causes him to lose control over the beast in his soul he fights to repress.
Karen is a mortal who has been searching her whole life. For what she has no idea, but her need to find it becomes more apparent to her each day. When she is unknowingly manipulated by an evil being, she finds herself led to the Knights of White, and to Jag. She feels a strange connection to him, and though she doesn’t know why, he feels strangely familiar, and oddly like the missing piece she’s been awaiting.
When Jag meets Karen, he instantly recognizes her as the gorgeous temptress from his dreams. But his suspicions of her motives and his fear of losing control cause him to push her away from him. But when the cause of the dreams becomes clear, and their destinies are revealed, it’s not a matter of Jag trusting Karen any more; it’s a matter of trusting himself.
The Beast Within is an exciting and emotional story of soul mates, accepting who you are, and trusting in the ones you love. Lisa Renee Jones has created not only a marvelous, suspenseful story, but an assembly of characters that are completely unforgettable! The Knights are sure to be some of your all-time favorite heroes, and you become attached to each one in just the first book! The connection between Jag and Karen is deep and powerful, and the reader is left riveted by their love story. Join the hero and heroine, along with the other Knights you will come to know and love, in their fight against pure evil, the Darkland Beasts. Lisa Renee Jones’ Knights of White series is a paranormal essential that will sweep romance readers off their feet!
-Mandy Rogues and Romance
Heat Rating: *3- Cupid's Ardor Arrow
Violence Rating: *3- Steel Arrow
Official Blurb (from website): A world where angels and demons collide…Where knives, guns, and weapons might cause damagebut only good can defeat evil. Known only as ‘Jag’, he leads an army, the Knights of White, in the battle of good over evil, fighting the soulless Darkland Beasts who took his wife and his life. Saved by an immortal of mystical powers, he, too, is now immortal, destined to live with the vengeance he feels in his heart. He is torn between the beast stirring his soul and the goodness his mentor presses him to embrace. But soon the true origins of the war being fought will become clear. For this is a battle of angels; Raphael, a protector of humanity, against, Cain, the fallen one, from the Underworld. Cain will stop at nothing to take down his adversary, even bringing Jag’s wife back to life in the form of forbidden temptation. His plan…to destroy the Knights and conquer good with evil. Now, Jag will find the one he lost, and their love will either lead him to the light or the ultimate darkness.
Official Blurb (from back of book): Only Passion Can Soothe the Beast Within… Known only as Jag, he leads the Knights of White against the soulless Darkland Beasts who took his wife and his life. Jag is immortal, destined to live with the vengeance he feels in his heart. And the dreams that haunt his soul. Sensual dreams of a woman. Dreams that threaten to unleash the beast within… Karen Gibson is an innocent mortal, unwittingly thrown into this millenia-old battle, and, unwillingly, under Jag’s protection. She and Jag are about to discover that they have met before - in the dreams they share. Neither trusts the other. Neither can survive alone. The secret of those erotic dreams may be all that saves them – if Jag can only accept it. At risk is Karen’s life. And Jag’s immortal soul… Knights of White: These demon hunters fight for all that is good…
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If you are an author or publisher, and would like Denise or Mandy to personally review a book or interview you, just drop us an email at denise+mandy (at) roguesandromance (dot) com with your request. We review books in ANY romance genre, any heat level, any length, no matter how long ago it was released. We are happy to receive multiple requests as well.
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Our Awards
We currently have two awards: the Must-Read and the Erotic Must Read. The Must-Read is for books with outstanding writing, story, and characters. The Erotic Must-Read has nothing to do with the book genre- it was created to acknowledge those books whose sex scenes really sizzle! These are the books that have those certain scenes that we revisit when we're feeling a little steamy!
Our Rating System
Because we do have some sensitive readers out there, we have ratings for both the sensuality and the violent content in each book. They are on a 1-5 scale, and the higher the number, the more graphic the element is. You can find a detailed explanation of the ratings further down in the sidebar.
Rogues and Romance does not rate books based on how "good" the reviewer thinks they are. We do not believe it's fair to rate book based on one opinion. However, there are some books that deserve special recognition- ones that really stand out in story, characters, and writing. We will reward these books with a special "Rogues and Romance Must-Read" award.
To keep things simple, we do not rate or award must-reads to reviews we do for other sites. There are a few we would love to, but it would not be right (and would be confusing) to employ our rating system on a book we reviewed elsewhere.
What are your top two favorite eye colors for your hero to have?
1- Suction Cup Arrow- Violence without Weapons; No Blood, Severe Injuries, or Death
2- Blunt-tipped Arrow- Minor or Severe Injuries, Weapons, Mild Scenes with Blood- No Death
3- Steel Arrow- Severe Injuries or Death, But No Explicit Descriptions
4- Fire Arrow- Death, Maiming, Blood, Gore- Moderately Graphic
5- Poison Arrow- Very Detailed, Longer Violent Scenes: Graphic Death or Maiming, Graphic Bloody and Gory Scenes, Explicit Language- What Might be Shocking to Most Readers
Does it bother you when there are scenes in which the hero is sleeping with another woman before he meets the heroine?
