Once I used this to backup my napptural blog. Now I am using it for my book blog. I participated in the 2007 eHarlequin Book Challenge. The site is being revamped and I may lose my entries. I am post-dating them as they are in my other blog.

I love that I could post date the entries. I am participating in the 2008 Book Challenge this year too. We are aiming as a community to read 100,000 books. If that goal is reached then eHarlequin will donate that amount of books to a charity. In 2007, each member was challenged to read at least 100 books. No mininmum is set for 2008, but I am setting a goal of 150. I read 127 this year and I definitely had moments when I wasn't reading. Keeping a mirror blog here will keep my blog going from year to year. On the Harlequin site, the blogs are archived at the end of each year.

Anyone who knows me knows it is hard for me to choose favorites when it comes to my books. Choosing 10 is impossible. So here are my Top Picks of the year in alphabetical order.

Top Harlequin Books

1. At First Sight - Tamara Sneed (Kimani Romance)
2. Fall from Grace - Kristi Gold (Everlasting Love)
3. Fever - Elaine Overton (Kimani Romance)
4. Friends: A Love Story / Angela Bassett & Courtney B. Vance, with Hilary Beard. (Kimani Special Releases)
5. In Bed with Her Boss - Brenda Jackson (Kimani Romance) Jul 07
6. Marriage Miracle - Liz Fielding (Harlequin Romance)
7. Pick Me Up - Samantha Hunter (Blaze)
8. Risky Pleasures - Brenda Jackson (Kimani Romance)
9. Seduction, Westmoreland Style - Brenda Jackson (Silhouette Desire)
10. Stranger in My Arms - Rochelle Alers (Kimani Press Arabesque)
11. The Antonakos Marriage– Kate Walker (Harlequin Presents)
12. The Elusive Bride - Deborah Hale (Harlequin Historicals)
13. The Italian's Future Bride - Michelle Reid (Harlequins Presents)
14. To Love a Knight - Wayne Jordan (Kimani Romance)

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Top 10 Non Harlequin Books
1. A Little Bit Wicked - Victoria Alexander
2. Absolute fear - Lisa Jackson (Kensington Books)
3. Deadly Sexy- Beverly Jenkins (Avon)
4. Devil May Cry - Sherrilyn Kenyon (St. Martin's Press)
5. Never Seduce a Scoundrel - Sabrina Jeffries (Pocket Books)
6. Only You - Francis Ray (St Martin’s)
7. Soulful Strut - Lynn Emery (Harper Torch)
8. The Perfect Shoe - Kimberly T. Matthews (Urban Soul Presents)
9. The Sacred Place - Daniel Black (St. Martin's Press)
10. There's Always a Reason - William Fredrick Cooper Strebor Books
11. We'll Never Tell - Kayla Perrin (St. Martin's Press) Excellent
12. What a Woman Wants - Brenda Jackson (St. Martin's Griffin) Excellent
13. Wild and Wicked - Lisa Jackson (Signet Books)
14. Wild Sweet Love - Beverly Jenkins (Avon)

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Favorite New to Me Author:
Adrianne Byrd (I’ve read 5 books by AB this year and all were great to excellent books. When Valentines Collide had me in tears from laughing so hard, To Love a Stranger (excellent books), She's My Baby & her two Adam Sisters books – When You Were Mine and Measure of a Man. Can’t wait until the next installment. She has an upcoming book that promises

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Favorite Series:

The Fortunes (Silhouette Desire) - Different Authors
The Garrisons (Silhouette Desire) - Different Authors
The Lover’s Series (Kimani Romance) - Altonya Washington
The Mediterranean Brides (Harlequin Presents) - Lucy Monroe
Trust Fund Affairs (Silhouette Desire) - Emilie Rose
The Million Dollar Catch - Susan Mallery

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Most Long Awaited Book:
Vivid - Beverly Jenkins (I have been looking for a copy of this book forever. The last of Beverly's books that I haven't read. A friend gave me a copy while on a trip and finally finally FINALLY I was able to see what the hype was about. It definitely lived up to its reputation.)

1. In the Spaniard's Bed - Helen Bianchin (Harlequin Presents)
2. Married to the Viscount - Sabrina Jeffries (Avon Historical)
3. The Blackmail Baby - Penny Jordan (Harlequin Presents)
4. Their Christmas Dream Come True - Kate Hardy (Medical Romance)
5. Bending to the Bachelor's Will - Emilie Rose (Silhouette Desire)
6. Her Secret Baby - Kim Lawrence (Harlequin Presents)
7. The Italian's Future Bride - Michelle Reid (Harlequins Presents)
8. Dr. Carlisle's Baby - Carol Marinelli (Harlequin Presents)
9. A Notorious Love- Sabrina Jeffries (Avon Historical)
10. Paying the Playboy's Price - Emilie Rose (Silhouette Desire)
11. Exposing the Executive's Secret - Emilie Rose (Silhouette Desire)
12. Seduction, Westmoreland Style - Brenda Jackson (Silhouette Desire)
13. What a Woman Wants - Brenda Jackson (St. Martin's Griffin)
14. Back in Fortune's Bed - Browyn Jameson (Silhouette Desire)
15. The Right Brother - Patricia McLinn (Silhouette SE)
16. Fever - Elaine Overton (Kimani Romance)
17. The Christmas Twins - Tina Leonard (American Romance) Nov 06
18. At the Spaniard's Convenience - Margaret Mayo (Harlequin Presents) Jan 07
19. A Little Change of Plans – Jen Safrey (Silhouette SE) Sept 06
20. Fall from Grace - Kristi Gold (Everlasting Love
21. The Count's Blackmail Bargain - Sara Craven (Harlequin Presents) Sept 06
22. Soulful Strut - Lynn Emery (Harper Torch) Dec 06
23. All I Want is Forever - Lynn Emery (Harper Touch) Nov 02
24. After the Seduction - Sabrina Jeffries (Avon Historicals) Jun 02
25. The Elusive Bride - Deborah Hale (Harlequin Historicals) Dec 2000
26. Divas of Damascus Road - Michelle Stimpson (Walk Worth Press) July 06
27. Dream Hunter - Sherrilyn Kenyon (St. Martin's Paperbacks ) Feb 07
28. Mother in Training - Marie Ferrarella (Silhouette SE) Oct 06
29. The City Girl and the Country Doctor -Christine Flynn (Silhouette SE) Nov. 06
30. The Super Mom - Karen Rose Smith, (Silhouette SE) Dec. 06
31. When Vallentines Collide - Adrianne Byrd (Kimani Romance) Feb 07
32. Sword of Darkness - Kinley MacGregor (Avon Romance) Apr 06
33. Irresistible You - Francis Ray (St. Martin's Paperbacks ) March 07
34. Friends: A Love Story / Angela Bassett & Courtney B. Vance, with Hilary Beard. (Kimani Press Special Releases) Feb 07
35. Risky Pleasures - Brenda Jackson (Kimani Romance) Apr 07
36. Dance of Seduction - Sabrina Jeffries(Avon Historical) Mar 03
37. Never Seduce a Scoundrel - Sabrina Jeffries (Pocket Books) Feb 06
38. Her Secret Sons - Tina Leonard (American Romance) March 07
39. Wild and Wicked - Lisa Jackson (Signet Books) Feb 02
40. Stranger in My Arms - Rochelle Alers (Kimani Press Arabesque) Apr 07
41. Absolute fear - Lisa Jackson (Kensington Books) Apr 07
42. Sins of the Father - Felicia Madlock (Urban Books) Sept 06
43. A Lover's Dream - AlTonya Washington (BET/Arabesque) Jan 06
44. A Lover's Pretense - AlTonya Washington (Kimani Romance) Aug 06
45. Blessings in Disguise - ReShonda Tate Billingsley (Pocket Books) Jan 07
46. Indigo Summer - Monica McKayhan (Kimani TRU) Feb 07
47. At First Sight - Tamara Sneed (Kimani Romance) Apr 07
48. You Only Get Better: Forty and Fabulous - Connie Briscoe Lolita Files and Anita Bunkley (Kimani Press Special Releases)
49. The Glass Slipper Project - Dara Girard (Kimani Romance) Apr 2007
50. Fortune's Vengeful Groom - Charlene Sands (Silhouette Desire) Mar 2007
51. Mistress of Fortune - Kathie DeNosky (Silhouette Desire) Apr 2007
52. Expecting a Fortune - Jan Colley (Silhouette Desire) May 2007
53. Wild Sweet Love - Beverly Jenkins (Avon) Apr 06
54. She's My Baby - Adrianne Byrd (Kimani Romance) Sept 06
55. Only A Duke Will Do - Sabrina Jeffries (Pocket) Aug 06
56. Measure of a Man - Adrianne Byrd (Arabesque) Jan 05
57. The Secret Lives of Doctor's Wives - Ann Major (Mira) Dec 06
58. The Sacred Place - Daniel Black (St. Martin's Press) Feb07
59. One Gentle Knight - Wayne Jordan (Kimani Romance) July 07
60. A Lover's Mask - Altonya Washington (Kimani Romance) Mar 07
61. In Another's Man Bed - Francis Ray (St. Martin's Griffin) Feb 07
62.Marriage Miracle - Liz Fielding (Harlequin Romance) Mar 06
63. The CEO's Scandalous Affair - Roxanne St. Claire (Silhouette Desire) Jul 07
64. We'll Never Tell - Kayla Perrin (St. Martin's Press) Mar 07
65. In Bed with Her Boss - Brenda Jackson (Kimani Romance) Jul 07
66. The Pastor's Woman - Jacquelin Thomas Kimani Romance) Aug 07
67. Seduced by the Wealthy Playboy - Sara Orwig (Silhouette Desire) Aug 07
68. Millionaire's Wedding Revenge - Anna DePalo (Silhouette Desire) Sept 07
69. If Only You Knew - Gwyneth Bolton (Kimani Romance) Jul 06
70. Love, Lies & Videotape - Kayla Perrin (Kimani Arabesque) Aug 07
71. Devil May Cry - Sherrilyn Kenyon (St. Martin's Press) Aug 07
72. Cuffed by Candlelight - Beverly Jenkins, Katharine D Jones, Gwyneth Bolton (Parker Publishing LLC) Feb 07
73. Kidnapped! - Jo Leigh (Harlequin Blaze) Sep 07
74. The Antonakos Marriage– Kate Walker (Harlequin Presents) Aug 06
75. The Ranieri Bride (Harlequin Presents) Sept 06
76. Vivid - Beverly Jenkins (Avon Historical) Nov 95
77. My Lover, My Friend - Shirley Hailstock (Kimani Romance) Nov 06
78. A Little Bit Wicked - Victoria Alexander (Avon) Jan 07
79. Stranded with the Tempting Stranger - Brenda Jackson (Silhouette Desire) Oct 07
80. Ever Wonderful - Kim Louise (Kimani Romance) Sept 07
81. His Holiday Bride - Elaine Overton (Kimani Romance) Oct 07
82. The Doctor's Little Secret - Jacqueline Diamond (Harlequin American) Feb 07
83. When You Were Mine - Adrianne Byrd (Kimani Arabesque) Nov 06
84. The Secret Life of Lady Gabriella - Liz Fielding (Harlequin Romance) May 07
85. Only You - Francis Ray (St Martin’s) Oct 07
86. Pick Me Up - Samantha Hunter (Blaze) Aug 07
87. A Woman with Secrets - Inglath Cooper (Harlequin Superromance) Nov 06
88. The Baby Gamble - Tara Taylor Quinn (Harlequin Superromance) Oct 07
89. At His Fingertips (Harlequin Blaze) - Dawn Atkins April 07
90. Deja Vu - Elaine Overton (BET/Arabesque) August 1, 2005
91. What a Lady Wants - Victoria Alexander (Avon) Jan 07
92. To Love a Knight - Wayne Jordan (Kimani Romance) Nov 07
93. Secrets of a Tycoon's Bride - Emilie Rose (Silhouette Desire) Nov 07
94. Deadly Sexy- Beverly Jenkins (Avon) Oct 07
95. Betting on Santa - Debra Salonen (Harlequin Superromance) Nov 07
96. Forbidden Temptation - Gwynne Forster (Kimani Romance) Nov 07
97. Pride and Consequence - Altonya Washington (Kimani Romance) Nov 07
98. The Sheik and the Christmas Bride - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Special Edition) Nov 07
99. Dangerous - Tori Carrington (Harlequin Blaze) Nov 07
100. Slow Burn - Brenda Jackson (St Martin’s Press) Nov 07
101. Daring Devotion - Elaine Overton (Kimani Romance) Jun 07
102. Back to Mr. & Mrs. - Shirley Jump (Harlequin Romance) May 07
103. Bought: The Greek's Bride - Lucy Monroe (Harlequin Presents) Jun 07
104. Taken: The Spaniard's Virgin - Lucy Monroe (Harlequin Presents) Jul 07
105. There's Always a Reason - William Fredrick Cooper Strebor Books Mar 07
106. Spencer's Forbidden Passion - Brenda Jackson (Silhouette Desire) Dec 07
107. The Executive's Surprise Baby - Catherine Mann (Silhouette Desire) Dec 07
108. At First Touch - Tamara Sneed (Kimani Romance) Dec 07
109. To Love a Stranger - Adrianne Byrd (Kimani Romance) Dec 07
110. Midnight Dreams - Kayla Perrin (Kimani Arabesque) Nov 07
111. Going for Broke - Linda Style (Harlequin Superromance) Dec 07
112. Sinfully Sweet – Janelle Denison, Jacquie D'Alessandro, and Kate Hoffmann (Blaze) Feb 06
113. Secret Santa - Janelle Denison, Isabel Sharpe, Jennifer Labrecque (Blaze) Dec 06
114. Simon Says - Collen Dixon (Strivers Row) Sept 03
115. The Perfect Shoe - Kimberly T. Matthews (Urban Soul Presents) Mar 07
116. Winter Nights - Francis Ray, Shirley Hailstock, Donna Hill (Arabesque) Oct 04
117. Flirting with Danger - Kayla Perrin (Arabesque) Aug 01
118. Tango - Kimberley White (Arabesque) Nov 03
119. Ice Under Fire - Linda Hudson Smith (Arabesque) Jan 00
120. The Substitute Millionaire (Silhouette Desire) Nov 06
121. The Unexpected Millionaire - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Desire) Dec 06
122. The Ultimate Millionaire - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Desire) Jan 07
123. Seduced by the Rich Main – Maureen Child (Silhouette Desire) Sept 07
124. The Greek Boss’s Bride – Chantelle Shaw (Harlequin Presents) May 07
125. Having the Boss’s Babies – Barbara Hannay (Silhouette Romance) Nov 06
126. Christmas Heat – Devon Vaughn Archer (Kimani Romance) Dec 07
127. Talking in Your Sleep… - Samantha Hunter (Harlequin Blaze) Dec 07

124. The Greek Boss’s Bride – Chantelle Shaw (Harlequin Presents) May 07 Rating: Really good

125. Having the Boss’s Babies – Barbara Hannay (Silhouette Romance) Nov 06 Rating: Really good

126. Christmas Heat – Devon Vaughn Archer (Kimani Romance) Dec 07 Rating: Really good

127. Talking in Your Sleep… - Samantha Hunter (Harlequin Blaze) Dec 07 Rating: Really good

120. The Substitute Millionaire (Silhouette Desire) Nov 06

Silhouette Desire -- Book 1 in my Million Dollar Catch Series
November 2006
Successful businessman Ryan Bennett had agreed to masquerade as his wealthy cousin for a blind date.

But from the moment Ryan saw Julie Nelson to the moment he should have said good-night, he was captivated and couldn't resist an invitation to share her bed. In the hazy afterglow of their heated lovemaking, Ryan confessed his true identity, claiming the passion between them was real despite his deception, but Julie wasn't buying it. Obviously she considered him the enemy.

Except now she was having the enemy's baby….

121. The Unexpected Millionaire - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Desire) Dec 06

Silhouette Desire -- Book 2 in my Million Dollar Catch Series
December 2006
Millionaire Kane Dennison's first mistake had been carrying an injured Willow Nelson inside his home, which, as a rule, was off-limits. Of course, she'd needed his help, but his one kind gesture had her believing he was a nice man. He wasn't.
His second mistake had been surrendering to passion after warning Willow to run away. Because a woman like her deserved better than a one-night stand. She believed in soul mates. He trusted no one—needed no one. And not even Willow was going to change him!

122. The Ultimate Millionaire - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Desire) Jan 07 Silhouette Desire -- Book 3 in Million Dollar Catch Series
January 2007
Todd Aston III's reputation as a playboy preceded him; he wore power as seamlessly as he wore his custom-cut suits. But Marina Nelson had promised her sister—who was marrying Todd's cousin—that she'd help him plan the perfect wedding. And somehow, between tasting cakes and modeling wedding dresses, Marina discovered that she wanted Todd—and that Todd wanted her. She was powerless to prevent the inevitable. Yet the harder she fell for Todd, the more she realized that he didn't trust marriage-minded women.
Which made her grandmother's offer of a million dollars to whichever Nelson sister married him a big problem….


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I couldn't let the year end without read this series. Loved all the three. I think the sister that I loved them most would be - Willow. She was innocent and bold all at once. Kane didn't stand a chance.

116. Winter Nights - Francis Ray, Shirley Hailstock, Donna Hill (Arabesque) Oct 04 Another one I read that has been on my shelf too long. I got the idea from another blogger. Choose this one because of the season.

117. Flirting with Danger - Kayla Perrin (Arabesque) Aug 01 This is a book that has been on my shelf forever. It's a shame too because it was a great story and a connecting story to one I had already read.

118. Tango - Kimberley White (Arabesque) Nov 03 This a story of May-December relationship

119. Ice Under Fire - Linda Hudson Smith (Arabesque) Jan 00 I read this one and enjoyed the story though it was frustrating at times. It has a sequel with the same characters which I started but put down. I didn't quite connect with the characters enough to read it right away.

This Simon Says is a game of life.

LIFE'S A GAME. ARE YOU READY TO PLAY?

The blood rushed from Alex's head, and his body went limp. As he passed into an abyss of darkness, the chilling final words of The Deliverer rang in his ears, words that would haunt him for the rest of his life. "The next time you pull a knife on someone, you better know why. It's not a toy. It's not a plaything. You be prepared to either use it for real or have it used on you.You either kill or be killed. Always remember that."
—from Simon Says

Alexander Baxter is a young man from the heart of D.C.'s most notorious ghetto and seems destined for a life of crime. But his intelligence triumphs over his fists when Simon Blake, the city's illustrious mayor, plucks him out of the clutches of a violent fate and guides him to achieve his every wish. For Alex, it's a fairy tale come true.

But this isn't a fairy tale—and no good deed ever goes unpunished. In this riveting story of murder, intrigue, romance, suspense, and political high jinks, Alexander Baxter learns to be careful what he wishes for, who he trusts, and where he leaves his heart. And he learns it the hard way.


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I picked this one up at City Trends for $2.99. They have great bargain books. It looked interesting and a change from my normal reading taste. I enjoyed it. Got a little crazy in the end. I am interested in reading the sequel – Every Eye Shut.

What style of shoe is your man? December Elliot has a shoe wardrobe to die for...a sucker for the latest and most unique footwear fashions; it's not long before she finds herself in financial trouble, constantly spending money on not just shoes, but anything else she believes will keep the perception of her image prestigious. Her wallet is not the only thing influenced by her fancy footwear, her method of categorizing men is also inspired by her full-fledged shoe fetish as she searches for the man she calls The Stiletto— the ultimate sexy shoe. Versatile—can dress up a simple pair of jeans, and at the same time turn every head at the Chamber of Commerce's annual gala. Unique—not found in every woman's closet (or bedroom). Complementing—adds incredible sex appeal to her already stunning package, 5'8", creamy, warm, caramel complexion, and body measurements that could have inspired Carl Carlton's Bad Mamma Jamma. In her quest for her Stiletto, she tries on a few other styles which aren't quite the right fit: The Workday Pump—a practical and sensible brother, offering no bells or whistles. The House Shoe similar to a grease spattered slipper, he's too embarrassing to be seen with in public. The Flip-Flop—he offers nothing more than the noise of empty promises and broken commitments. Will December ever find The Perfect Shoe?
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This book was an absolute delight and much better than I thought it would be. I loved the concept of the comparison of shoes and men. There is a Shoe Dictionary you must read.
The story was realistic and believable. The heroine was someone all women could relate to. I am cutting my entries short to finish today, but I am doing the book a disservice. Great book and a must read. This is another book that proves that not all urban is off my list. I have definitely been missing out.

b Rating: Excellent

112. Sinfully Sweet – Janelle Denison, Jacquie D'Alessandro, and Kate Hoffmann Does chocolate put you in the mood? ...The owners of Sinfully Sweet, an upscale sweets shop, want to test their theory that chocolate is the ultimate aphrodisiac. So they conduct an unorthodox study, disguised as a Valentine's Day promotion. When the unsuspecting customers start grabbing up the chocolates -- the experimental results go right off the charts!

WICKEDLY DELICIOUS by Janelle Denison: Sensible Rebecca Moore impulsively decides to take up the offer of millionaire playboy Connor Bassett to have a wildly erotic fling.

CONSTANT CRAVING by Kate Hoffmann by Uptight Daniel Montgomery and free-spirited Carlie Pratt find out that opposites don't just attract, they set the sheets on fire!

SIMPLY SCRUMPTIOUS by Jacquie D'Alessandro by Kel Martin and Darcy Scott, who shared a one-night stand five years ago, are suddenly back in bed together -- and they can't get out!

But the ultimate test is...when the last of the chocolates melt in their mouths, will the passion remain?

113. Secret Santa - Janelle Denison, Isabel Sharpe, Jennifer Labrecque He'd Better Watch Out by Janelle Denison
Amanda Creighton has always been the epitome of good--until the day her inner vixen convinces her to tease the office bad boy with a gift he can't possibly resist….
The Nights Before Christmas by Isabel Sharpe
When her Secret Santa leaves Cathy Ann Johnson barely-there lingerie, she can't help but think the gift comes with an invitation to model it. So she seduces Santa--the wrong Santa….
Mistletoe Madness by Jennifer LaBrecque
Tatiana Allen believes in giving her job as a restaurant critic her all. Heck, she's even working over the holidays! So how does she end up with Cole in her stocking?


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I enjoyed both of these books. I read these as I was trying to read some of my older books. I always love a good story by Janelle Denison and she did not disappoint me. Jacquie D'Alessandro is another one of my favorites. I enjoyed all the stories. I love the concept of the Sinfully Sweet chocolate store and the matching making couple. Amanda steamed up the sheets with her secret Santa in He’d Better Watch Out Cathy found passion

She now needs the man she wrongly accused as a teen.

After taking the rap for a crime he didn't commit, Jake Chandler swore he'd seen the last of his unforgiving Texas hometown. Until family business brings him back…face-to-face with his past in River Bluff. Face-to-face with Rachel Diamonte.

Not only did Rachel break his heart, she was the lone witness whose so-called evidence fifteen years earlier had branded him a "barn burner."

And now the former homecoming queen—a single mother who needs help—has the nerve to ask him for a job. It could be Jake's chance to make her pay for what she did.… So why does he find himself compelled to protect her and her little girl?


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Texas Hold Em Book 3

I think this is my favorite one yet. There are three more to go so we will see. Jake secretly love Rachel as a teen before she wrongly accused him of starting a fire. He leaves town and has no desire to return until the death of his uncle. Now that he’s back with his friend’s pressuring him to stay and restore the Wild Card Saloon the old poker spot that he now owns. He has no desire to stay and yet he finds himself lingering. Rachel is back in town and needs his help. Despite their past, he feels the need to protect Rachel and her young child.

The Texas Hold Em gang is a series that I stumbled upon and I am enjoying it.

Wishes do come true if you follow your heart.

Midnight Passion . . .
Forced to wait tables after her husband stole money from their successful Manhattan hair salon and left her for another woman, Jade Alexander made two resolutions for the New Years -- reopen her business someday and never trust another man again with her heart. But when she attends her friend's New Year's Eve party, she meets her old flame, Terrell Edmonds. As the clock strikes midnight, Jade can feel her resolve weakening--and her desire kindling--under his piercing gaze.

Midnight Wishes . . .
Six years ago, Terrell Edmonds had lost Jade, the only woman he'd believed was "the one", by letting her marry the wrong man. Determined not to lose her again, Terrell sets out to convince Jade that love can be sweeter the second time around-and together, they can make all of their wishes for the New Year come true. . .


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I love Kayla Perrin. This book was a re-issue and I couldn't remember if I had read it or not. Either way I loved it. I always love a well written story of second chance. Terrell Edmonds tried to stop Jade from marrying the wrong man for he knew in his heart that he was the right one for her. Six years later, Jade is struggling to get back on her feet after her ex-husband has taken money and caused her business to fall. She runs into Terrell at a New Year’s Eve party and the spark is still there. This time Terrell is determined not to let the love of his life get away.

There's a stranger in my house and he says he's my husband.

Madeline Stone is widowed thank God. She had had enough of her two timing husband. While she is in labor with their second child, he is on a plane with his current lover. The plane goes down and Russell Stone is presumed dead. With her inheritance from his death, she is on the verge of fulfilling of dream of becoming a fashion designer. Six years later, her husband returns only he is not the man she remembers. This Russell with no memories of his past life is gentle loving romantic – all the things he wasn’t before. Is he her husband or not. He looks like him sounds like him but that’s where the similarities end. His own brother had embraced him. Can she do the same? Once she shares his bed she her doubts increase. Is this man her husband or not. What will she do now that she is in love with him?

To Love a Stranger is a prime example of why Adrianne Byrd has become a favorite auto buy for me. When I picked up When Valentines Collide, I never knew I was missing out on such a great author – and she had other books for me to read several in fact.

Rating: Excellent

This kind of attraction can't be denied and definitely not replaced.

Daytime television diva Quinn Sibley may be down, but shes definitely not out. While rumors of her overbearing ego have doors slamming in her face, shes planning the perfect comeback. But shes got to return to a place—and a man—she thought shed left for good. Is tiny Sibleyville, California, ready for a Hollywood invasion—or Quinn Sibley?

When handsome Wyatt Granger, the towns reluctant mortician, discovers a film crew outside his door, hes determined not to let beautifully outrageous Quinn knock him off his feet…again. Hes still searching for the right woman, one who is quiet, shy and doesnt resemble the impossibly sensual siren who has haunted his dreams for a year. Try as he will, ignoring Quinn is as impossible as denying a little Hollywood magic.


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Tamara Sneed is a new author for me and I just knew when I read At First Sight - Tamara Sneed that I had a new family series to look forward to reading. We met Quinn and Wyatt in At First Sight and even got a taste of their undesired undeniable passion for each other.

In At First Touch, Quinn needs Wyatt’s help to further her acting career. Wyatt has decided that a small town woman is what he needs to complete his life trying to ignore the fact that every time he gets near. Ignoring Quinn is the wrong thing to do Wyatt finds out. Quinn pulls out all the tricks to capture Wyatt and this Sibley sister’s story was just as great as the first. I can’t wait until the next installment.

To save the family business, she must marry him.

Book cover:

Millionaire deal-maker Spencer Westmoreland would bail out Chardonnay Russell's failing Napa Valley vineyard. And in return she'd bear his children. But she shouldn't dare hope Spencer would ever fall in love with her. Her only choice was to accept the arrogant businessman's proposal. But becoming Spencer's wife—in every way—set her body, her heart, on fire. And soon Chardonnay wanted what was strictly forbidden…


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This book could have been published under the Harlequin Presents line. Spencer Westmoreland is classic Alpha male. Since I love the Alpha Males, I thoroughly enjoyed his story. Even with his ruthless arrogant ways, we were shown the caring side of his nature. Like the man of his caliber Spencer wants love, but because of hurt and pain from a previous relationship; he guards his heart with dire determination. His attraction to Chardonnay is instant and undeniable and he resorts to what any true Alpha male would in his situation - blackmail.

Rating: Great book

Unplanned pregnancy, fist fights and undeniable passionate love- all from sleeping with the enemy.

Telling her high-society family she was about to be an unwed mother had been tough. So how could she possibly inform the Garrison clan that the baby's father was their archenemy? Brooke planned to keep the paternity a secret... then millionaire hotel mogul Jordan Jefferies learned the truth. And he was no about to let her fear of the scandal stop him from claiming his child. Or from making Brooke his wife.
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Book 6 of Garrisons

This story wraps up the Garrison saga. Somehow I knew Jordan Jeffries would pay a part in the series when his brother fell in love with Brooke’s twin – Brittany. As much trouble as he gave Emilio for falling for in love with the enemy, he was already half there himself. A one night stand leads to an unplanned pregnancy and what an explosive ending for the Garrisons. Sparks fly between Parker and Jordan as well as everyone with Mother Garrison who has needed some help since the beginning after learning her late husband had father a child outside the marriage. Among all the turmoil, the real questions is will the passion between Jordan and Brooke leads to love and healing for this family.

Rating: Really good

As I said here earlier in my blog, I was challenged to read this book and I accepted. I was promised it would the most emotional book written by an AA male author in recent memory. Normally I would not read a book with Zane's name on it. Too out there for me, but I realize I may have been short changing my reading experience. I read it over the Thanksgiving weekend and it had me in tears.

I've read a few books that have brought me to tears and There's Always a Reason is one of them, but that’s not the reason William's story is emotional for me. I was able to connect with William. I had an “I’ve been there moment” with him more than once while reading. His emotions at times were mine. The fact that William had universal problems - not just one-sided male issues - was what drew me in. Sometimes we tend to forget that our counterparts go through the same things we do.

The love story of William McCall and Linda “Lucky” Woodson is beautiful and heart wrenching. William has lost his fiancée, career and home and finds himself in a state of despair when Linda comes into his life singing off key and swinging her hips. He starts to feel things he never thought he would again. Linda, who has suffered her own pains of life, sees William for the man he is not for the current circumstances.

I admit I would have never picked this book up on my own - a classic example of not judging a book by its cover. I highly recommend you read this beautifully written book.

Rating: Excellent

103. Bought: The Greek's Bride - Lucy Monroe (Harlequin Presents) Jun 07

Greek billionaire Sandor Christofides was born in shame, and has fought his way to the top. Now he has wealth and acclaim—all he needs is Eleanor to be his bride.
The scene is set, vintage champagne, red roses—a dazzling diamond ring! But does Sandor really want to cherish Ellie...or is she just a pawn in a ruthless game?

104. Taken: The Spaniard's Virgin - Lucy Monroe (Harlequin Presents) Jul 07

Amber Taylor looked innocent...and that interested Spanish billionaire Miguel Mendez. But as a model—she sold her innocence every day.
The seduction was relentless.... Miguel's Mediterranean charm made Amber feel beautiful for the first time in her life.
It was supposed to be a quick fling with a top model. But now Miguel had taken the most precious gift of all—her innocence!
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I loved this series and wished it could have been bigger. The concept was wonderful. I won't give the connecting factor away, but I loved it and how Lucy Monroe handled. I bought these books when they first came out and misplaced them during wile moving. They were well worth the wait. Bought and Taken are must reads. In Bought, Ellie is determined not to marry Sandor a man she thinks only wants her for the company her father has. In Taken, Amber is a virgin (we know because of the title), but the attraction between her and Miguel is one that goes beyond anything she has ever felt. Miguel can’t resist though he knows virgins are not his forte. Two alpha males meet two alluring headstrong women and Lucy Monroe weaves two tales of passion filled with the emotion I love.

A story of second chances or restoring love before it’s too late

Cade and Melanie—high school prom king and queen—the golden couple! Twenty years on, the reunion's looming, and Melanie Matthews must let the world know that the dream is no longer true….
Somewhere along their journey Cade lost sight of what really mattered. He let work take first place in his life and lost the one person who lit up his world. Now he's determined to show Melanie that he can be the man she's always wanted, the husband she always needed…and win back her heart.


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A story of second chances or restoring love before it’s too late. Determined to take care of his family Cade forgets the little things that make a marriage work. The beginning of this story finds Cade and Melanie separated on the verge of divorce. A request for the reenactment of prom king and queen at their 20th year reunion gives Cade the opportunity to fight for his marriage and prove he can be the man Melanie needs and wants.

Rating: Really good

Don't let fear hinder true love.

Back cover:
Nights of passion
Detroit social worker Andrea Chenault has always believed she can live with the fear that every firefighter’s wife knows. But as her long- awaited wedding day approaches, she’s tormented by secret doubts. Because it’s becoming clear that deadly fires are targeting the man she loves beyond all reason.
Days of fear
Calvin Brown is the bravest, strongest man she’s ever known, and he’s taken her to heights of passion she never knew existed. But as the circle of flames draws ever closer, Andrea wonders if even her overwhelming love for this man is strong enough to survive the terrible thought of a life without him…
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Firefighter Calvin Brown is suffering from Post Traumatic Syndrome after a near death experience. His fiancée Andrea Chenault is having last minute doubts as their wedding day draws near. Now Calvin must be man enough to admit his weaknesses to save his chance at love as Andrea fights her own personal demons stemming from her parents’ dysfunctional marriage.

Rating: Good Book This story was a bit frustrating at times, but enjoyable overall.

Anyone one else having trouble picking their top 10 reads of the year? I'm going to try my best to pick 10 tonight. Can I have a few honorable mentions?

Book # 100

I choose this book as my 100th book. Slow Burn is Brenda Jackson’s 50th novel and I thought it was clever of me to make it my 100th book of the year. Brenda is my favorite romance author and the Madaris Family is one of my favorite family series. Slow Burn takes us back to the first Madaris Family novel Tonight and Forever where Justin and Lorren adopt a lovable little boy named Justin.

Skye Barclay’s life has been turned upside down when she learns that she is adopted. Though she learns her mother has died, she discovers she has a younger brother Justin Madaris. Against her adopted parents and once fiancée wishes, Skye sets out to find Justin. Though many of the irresistible Madaris men have found true love, there is one who is perfect for Skye Barclay. Slade Madaris, who is cousin to Justin Madaris and visiting at the time of Skye’s visit, answers the door and thus begins the sizzling romance Brenda Jackson style. From the beginning Slade is drawn to Skye as her protector, friend and a love is created from the slow burn of their meeting.

This book seemed to be more of a reunion story. I loved revisiting Justine and Lorren. You also get to see the Madaris men and friends in action. No one threatens a member of that family (official or non official) and get away with it. The secondary story of Nedwyn Lansing & Diana Madaris was great to read. Theirs was a story of long time friendship love.

I am so behind on my entries. I will have to do a few catch up rounds. I follow a fellow challenger's road and started reading some of my older books. Books 112-119 are books that have either been on my shelf for a few years or at least months. I started Fire Beneath Ice since it was related to Ice Under Fire, but I had to put it down. I really didn't connect with the characters in the first book and the story didn't read as well as I like. I wanted to go ahead and read the second book, but it wasn't working. I have decided to read the Millionaire's series by Susan Mallery- my next three books. I should have some free time tomorrow and I am hoping to catch on my entries. I also need to work on my top 10 for the year. Not an easy task.

I also ordered 11 more books during the last days of the 12 day sale. With 40% off all books plus the extra 10%, I found some great bargains. 11 books for $26 averaging about 2.40 a book.

96. Forbidden Temptation - Gwynne Forrester (Kimani Romance) Nov 07 I thought this was my first book by GF, but as I was entering books on Shelfari I realized I've read a couple of short stories in different anthologies. Her writing styles just doesn't grab me. Though I enjoyed Ruby and Luther, FT was hard to read at times. The back and forth with these two was a bit frustrating.

97. Pride and Consequence - Altonya Washington (Kimani Romance) Nov 07 Altonya has definitely become a favorite of mine. I could have knocked Malik upside the head. I understand the desire of a man to want to protect his wife, but he went a bit far. Women take the vows of in sickness and in health too. Pride and Consequence as titled or Love and Forgiveness another theme for this book.

98. The Sheik and the Christmas Bride - Susan Mallery (Silhouette Special Edition) Nov 07 I always enjoy stories from the Special Edition line usually with children. This one was no different. These stories leave me with that warm fuzzy feeling. Sigh! I love series too and I noticed that this one is part of the Desert Rogues. I will definitely look into reading them. Looks likes this one is the first in a new country according to Susan’s site, but there are 10 Desert Rogue books. I still have the Million Dollar Catch series in my TBR box.

99. Dangerous - Tori Carrington (Harlequin Blaze) Nov 07 This is my first Tori Carrington book this year. Sometimes there are just too many books to read and not enough time. Undercover FBI agent in love with the Lady Boss of the crime family he is investigating. Great story.

I am also planning to read one of my Stephen King unread books before the end of the year. I collect them, but I haven't read one in a few years. Right now I am leaning towards Insomnia

These two will need to go all in for love.

Book 2 for the Texas Hold 'Em series.

back cover

But this time Tessa Jamison isn't leaving River Bluff, Texas, until she finds what she came for: the father of her sister's two-year-old son. And the stand-in Santa at the local church bazaar could be the man she's looking for.

Cole Lawry seems an unlikely candidate for instant daddy. What's more, the divorced ex-businessman and consummate poker player insists he's not a father—never has been, never plans to be. Until Tessa calls his bluff.

Which means gambling everything she's got. Including her heart.


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Tessa Jamison's comes to River Bluff looking for her sister's baby daddy (I really hate that term, but I couldn't help buy use it :sheepish). Cole does not seem to be the love and leave 'em type, but he's listed in her sister’s cryptic journal. Though Cole is not the father, Tessa is drawn to him even if she doesn’t want to be. He is not driven enough for her. Tessa, who loves designer clothes and fancy things, reminds Cole of his first wife who trampled his heart. I enjoyed Cole's story and look forward to the next one. I am waiting for Going Broke to arrive any day now.

I read my 100th book - Brenda Jackson's Slow Burn.



Over weekend I read four books and today I started a book by William Fredrick Cooper - There's Always a Reason. I was challenged to read this book and I accepted. I was promised it would the most emotional book written by a AA male author in recent memory. Normally I would not read a book with Zane's name on it. Too out there for me, but I realize I may have been short changing my reading experience.

Zane has a publishing company - Strebor Books - and I will give Mr Cooper a chance. Maybe he has opened another world of books for me. If not, I will let him know just as he has asked.

I found my box of missing books. I knew I would find them as soon as I re-ordered. Luckily I only re-ordered one - Elaine Overton's Daring Devotion. The other missing books that have been thinking of reordering were Bought: The Greek's Bride and Taken: The Spaniard's Virgin by Lucy Monroe. First I wanted to check my used bookstore. The last book I have been most distraught about is my poetry book written by my friend who died this year in a motorcycle accident. An inspirational poetry book called When Can I Get Naked?. He was like a brother to me and I could never replace the book with his autograph. They were in the box with my Blaze books. I was afraid the box was either left at the old house or thrown away as we unpacked and moved things in the new house.

In December we always bring a wrapped book to our book club meeting. I guess I know which one I will have.

With a mix of electrifying attraction and life threatening situations, this book is titled just right.

Though her Lexus may be broken down on the California freeway, Jessi Teresa Blake is no damsel in distress. Rich, smart, and beautiful, JT, or "Lady Blake," as she is called, is one of the toughest sports agents around. She's negotiated megabucks contracts for every superstar in the business, and only the most confident of men can match wits with her. Men like Reese Anthony, the impossibly sexy trucker who gives her a lift back to Oakland


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There once was a time I would say I like Beverly Jenkins’s contemporaries, but I love her historicals. Beverly Jenkins and historical romance are synonymous. Now I am rethinking Ms B and her contemporaries. The Edge of Dawn, Edge of Midnight and Black Lace (all related) are really good to great books, but then came Sexy/Dangerous with agent Maxine Blake. If you haven’t read it, you must - full of action with a female heroine as tough as any man. I loved it! Now Deadly Sexy brings Maxine’s sister JT Lady Blake to the scene – the toughest sports agent around. Reese Anthony, who Jessi mistakes him for a truck driver, gives her a ride back to Oakland when her car breaks down. She is sure her breakdown was the deliberate actions of a disgruntled ex-employee. JT may be tough as nails, but Reese Anthony is not just any trucker driver. The tension and sparks between these two are instant and electrifying add in some a demented ex-employee turned wanna be competitor sports agent and Deadly Sexy lives up to its name. With first Sexy Dangerous now Deadly Sexy, Ms B has taken her contemporaries to another level. As is her signature with these novels, her H/H are descendants of her historical characters. I’ll rate them both as excellent reads that I highly recommend.

Rating: Excellent, highly recommend!!!!

He only thought he wanted the perfect respectable wife.

Book 5: The Garrisons

To hire a wife

He needed a wife—a perfect, respectable wife—fast! And Lauryn Lowes was the ideal candidate to become Mrs. Adam Garrison. A natural beauty with brains, Lauryn already worked for him. Soon, his playboy reputation would be a thing of the past.

But when Lauryn turned his "proposal" down flat, the bachelor billionaire suddenly became more determined than ever to capture her as his bride. No matter what the consequences…


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Nearing the end of the Garrisons , we find Adam Garrison searching for a wife to clean up his play boy party image. Adams is the youngest brother and middle sibling. Looking for a bigger role in the family business as well as the presidency of the Miami Business Council, Adam believes his new account Lauryn Lowes is the perfect to help him out. Two years of marriage for a million dollars and she refuses. Adam becomes determined to capture Lauryn as more than a bride of convenience even if it costs him all that he thought he desired.

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight... Oh! Just send me an adventurous man to keep from the stuffy boring men that are courting me.

One bachelor down . . . three more to go. Four most desirable gentlemen have wagered one shilling apiece and a bottle of cognac that will go to the last unmarried man standing . . .
Nigel Cavendish knows he'll marry one day, but hopefully that day is many years—and many women—in the future! Until then, the handsome, unrepentant rake intends to enjoy life's pleasures to the fullest!
From the moment Lady Felicity Melville spies the adventurous scoundrel climbing from a neighbor's window—with his comely conquest's husband in hot pursuit—she knows Nigel is the answer to her prayers . . . with a little reformation, of course! Felicity craves excitement and who in all of London is more exciting than the infamous Mr. Cavendish? So what's a girl to do but hatch a scheme to win what she so fervently desires. But her plan works too well when a game of chance and an errant pistol shot abruptly make them husband and wife—but in a way neither wanted.
Now Felicity has to prove to her wayward husband that she's the only woman he could ever want . . . or need!


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After A Little Bit Wicked A Little Bit Wicked we know that there are 3 men left after Viscount Warton falls for Lady Chester. Just as Lady Felicity Melville wishes upon a star for husband – not just any husband but one who is not boring, staid nor ordinary but one who will make the rest of her days an adventure, the notorious Nigel Cavendish is climbing out of a window with a husband shooting behind him and perhaps even the hounds of hell chasing him. He climbs unto her balcony for safety and into the story of What a Lady Wants – fighting fate to keep from being the next bachelor down. This story is full of the humorous writing style of Victoria Alexander that I have come to love.

I can’t wait to read Secrets of a Proper Lady where out who will be the last man standing and truly if he is the winner or loser in the gamble of love.

Even a woman can be a knight in shining armor.

Book 2 of the Knight Trilogy

Tamara Knight used her skills as a healer to save the hunk of a hermit next door. While caring for him, her awareness of his rugged sensuality and commanding strength kept her awake at night. His gruff exterior hid secrets he wouldn't share, but that didn't stop Tamara from sharing herself or her bed with him in nights filled with mind-blowing passion.

When Kyle Austin opened his home to lovely Tamara, he almost forgot his painful past. Even as he warmed to her intoxicating touch, he was working out a plan, because now Tamara was all that mattered.


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Tamara Knight was raised by her older brother Shayne and their housekeeper after losing her parents. She has always been an animal lover taking in the abandoned and lost. Kyle Austin has become a recluse since a life changing auto accident. He has closed himself off from the love of friends and family. Tamara comes into his life and becomes someone who he can’t keep any no matter how hard he tries. She is determined to help him and show him that he can still function in the world outside the walls of his home. Soon he finds that he can’t do without her. But does she love him or is he another stray she wants to nurture?

I loved the story of Tamara and Kyle. Wayne has become a must read for me with his emotional filled stories of men that are a long way from perfect but will capture your heart and makes you fall in love with them – faults and all.

This book is part of a trilogy. Tamara has a twin brother and his story is coming. We also know that Shayne has two best friends who Troy and George – who we saw more of in this story. With the introduction of Jared in To Love a Knight, we find another man that is begging for a story of his own. I fell in love with Jared with his past and desire for a family and sense of belonging. The Knights are a special family and that includes the friends that are family though they don’t share the same blood.