Jane Hunt Writer First Steps

Owned

12:00 am 1 November 2014

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'Owned' is a story of fatalistic attraction between Blake and Lana; two people who in ordinary circumstances would never have met.
Blake is part of an elite, powerful family. They represent the covert control present in every overtly democratic society and possess an aura of menace and mystic many government leaders covet.

Lana lives with her mother on a notorious council estate. Her father is long gone unable to cope with his wife's life- threatening illness. Lana picks up the pieces. When conventional medicine offers no hope she uses the only asset she possesses to give her mother a chance of life.

Their serendipitous meeting saves Lana from a cruel man but is the salvation Blake offers, just as dangerous? Their business arrangement quickly becomes something more to both of them but only Lana is honest enough to acknowledge it, perhaps because of innocence and optimism. Blake's actions betray his true feelings but if these two are destined for a happy ever after it seems so way off at the end of book 1.

I loved the characters. They are so vivid; you feel part of their lives. There is also an underlying menace and depravity in this story, which makes it a compelling read.

I'm hooked.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

Erotic Romance Georgia Le Carre The Billionaire Banker Series

Source: http://jolliffe01.com/2014/11/03/5-review-owned-1-billionaire-banker-series-georgia-le-carre

Chasing the Sun

12:00 am 30 October 2014

[bc:Chasing the Sun|23442851|Chasing the Sun|Sasha Abernathy|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1414171839s/23442851.jpg|26572716]

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This story is a fusion of urban paranormal/fantasy and Egyptian mythology played out against the wild, untamed setting of Alaska. Not surprisingly it caught my interest from the first page.

Told from the aptly named heroine, Terran's point of view you are immediately aware of her despair and sadness, two years after her tragic loss. Barely able to function in the 'real world', she lives through her strange dreams, which for a time allow her to capture what she has lost. The dream sequences are vivid and evocative of Terran's current life and future.

There is intricate world building in the first half of the story. This slows this pace a little but allows the reader to understand Terran and empathise with her as she struggles with her grief and new discoveries. Terran thinks she is losing her grip on reality but maybe not?

This story is full of alpha males who all effect Terran deeply. Supernatural events clash with the ordinary; she discovers no one is really what they seem. The characters' duality makes the collision of the mythological world with contemporary Alaska imaginable. For me it is the poignancy of this story that makes it hard to put down. The fast paced ending leaves us with more questions than answers. I can't wait for book 2.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:Sasha Abernathy|7360301|Sasha Abernathy|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1414596111p2/7360301.jpg]

A Place For Us Part 3

12:00 am 28 October 2014

[bc:A Place For Us Part 3|23299740|A Place For Us Part 3|Harriet Evans|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1412289497s/23299740.jpg|42855681]

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I wondered if part 3 of 'A Place For Us' would be an anti-climax after the drama of part 2 but it isn't.
After Martha's terrible revelation, life returns to fractured normality for those who remain. Another traumatic event for Martha leaves her doubting the validity of her life work, creating a safe haven for her family.
Flash backs to David's teenage are harrowing and solve the mystery surrounding Florence and why he avoids contact with his earlier life. This part of David's story is poignant and appalling. Be prepared for tears, such is the reader's empathy with David at this point in his life. It also illuminates his later behaviour and why Martha condones it.
Florence discovers her own shocking revelation, which estranges her from Martha and Bill. Only Lucy provides the impetus for the family to survive the tsunami of grief that engulfs it. The ethos of this part of the story is dark but at the end thanks to Lucy, Martha sees a more positive way forward.
Part 3 reveals deep secrets with sensitivity and sets the scene for the last act, which I can't wait to read.
I received a copy of this book from Headline via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

My review of A Place for Us Part 1

My review of a Place for Us Part 2

[a:Harriet Evans|292599|Harriet Evans|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1224197345p2/292599.jpg]

Lady Betty and the Bonnet from Hell

12:00 am 26 October 2014

[bc:Lady Betty and the Bonnet from Hell|23204108|Lady Betty and the Bonnet from Hell|Jessica Baker|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410511054s/23204108.jpg|42748111]

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I like the quirky sense of fun that underlines this story. Lady Betty's dry, witty sense of humour made me smile. Edward is charming, although far removed from an alpha Regency rake. This story is often sensual but has the ambience of a gentle, traditional historical romance. More historical details would make this story more atmospheric. The plot is simple but it becomes increasingly complex with a series of convoluted marriage proposals and mixed signals that keep you guessing.

Interesting characters, lovely country house setting and a nice mix of romance, sensuality and fun counter the difficult circumstances Betty and Edward find themselves in. A suitably dramatic ending and the epilogue ensures the desired happy ever after.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:Jessica Baker|6640422|Jessica Baker|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-ccc56e79bcc2db9e6cdcd450a4940d46.png]

The Harbour Master II: The Maze

12:00 am 21 October 2014

[bc:The Harbour Master II: The Maze|23164754|The Harbour Master II The Maze|Daniel Pembrey|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410088265s/23164754.jpg|42710836]

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'The Maze' is a succinct description for the second in The Harbour Master series. Henk, the seasoned, world worn detective enjoys a short break with his long suffering wife, interrupted by his only political ally, currently working in Brussels. Again Henk puts work before his personal life and risks compounding the family tension with his daughter.

A series of new and unsolved crimes force Henk to question those in authority and make him wary of his peers. Still in the shadow of an unsolved suspicious death Henk finds himself at the centre of a political scandal that only he wants to expose.

The players in this mysterious thriller are numerous all provide essential clues to the true crime. Relationships both personal and work orientated are explored as they entangle but Henk must visit many expertly constructed dead ends before he finds the truth.

Henk is a clever detective, a maverick, he threatens the establishment but is a true advocate for justice. His wife Pernilla and long time army friend Johann thankfully have his back often at great personal cost.

The dramatic ending provides a satisfying conclusion to 'The Maze' but reveals a new crime for Henk to solve. There are also problems closer to home for Henk to explore in the next of his adventures perhaps.

A worthy second chapter of The Harbour Master series, 'The Maze' is a mind provoking story; fast paced action interwoven with a vivid, realistic setting and detailed characters and relationships.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:Daniel Pembrey|7189349|Daniel Pembrey|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1404030220p2/7189349.jpg]

Bloodpledge, Book 2 of The Dantonville Legacy

12:00 am 21 October 2014

[bc:Bloodpledge|22494155|Bloodpledge (The Dantonville Legacy, #2)|Tima Maria Lacoba|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402962792s/22494155.jpg|41847641]

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I read 'Bloodpledge 'in a couple of days. My first thoughts are exciting, enthralling and nail biting. I love the originality of the story, which continues chronologically from 'Bloodgifted.'

Laura's independence and courage develop despite her human fears, as she moves closer to her destiny. Alec is the vampire with a conscience who is determined to fight against needless killing of humanity but willing to kill without mercy anyone who threatens Laura or the 'Brethren' community under his care.

Bloodpledge explores the bond between Marcus and his men in greater detail and lends an interesting historical perspective to this fast paced urban gothic tale. Aside from the civil unrest within the 'Brethren' the clash of paranormal and human worlds also causes problems for Laura and her family.

The Australian setting is unusual and captivating. An enticing blend of action and historical detail, layered with paranormal legend and passionate romance. The first person style of writing from Alec and Laura's point of view gives the reader an immediate insight into their feelings and builds empathy.

The puzzle of the witch's curse is an overriding theme of the story. Bloodpledge reveals more pieces but the mystery remains. I look forward to the next chapter of the Dantonville Legacy.

[a:Tima Maria Lacoba|6154201|Tima Maria Lacoba|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1338719146p2/6154201.jpg]

Her Final Sleep

12:00 am 19 October 2014

[bc:Her Final Sleep|23272191|Her Final Sleep|Joe DiCicco|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1411693102s/23272191.jpg|42811960]
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'Her Final Sleep' is classic, nail biting, jump out of your skin horror but this story has so much more to draw you in even if you are not a horror story reader.

The setting is a sleepy, town where there is little opportunity. Everyday life revolves around the local factories and the local bars. Not surprisingly the appearance of an all girl band attracts all the men in the neighbourhood and not just because they are stunningly attractive, they are also awesome musicians.

The characters are plentiful and all cleverly crafted. The reader knows everything important about them and so cares what happens to them. The story centres on a group of musicians made up of local workers who long to make it in the music world and respect the musical talent of Her Final Sleep.

Overshadowed by missing persons and unsolved murders the town's occupants become fearful and wary. The story's twists are many and the ending is surprising. Full of dramatic irony the characters walk into life threatening situations and the reader hold's their breath because they appreciate the danger that lies ahead.

Not for the squeamish, the horror is bloody but not gratuitously graphic. If you like suspense and vivid horror stories this one if for you.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[a:Joe DiCicco|7326480|Joe DiCicco|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-ccc56e79bcc2db9e6cdcd450a4940d46.png]

A Princess by Christmas

12:00 am 15 October 2014

[bc:A Princess by Christmas|21942751|A Princess by Christmas|Jennifer Faye|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1405259726s/21942751.jpg|41247182]

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'A Princess by Christmas' is a lovely romantic fairytale, perfect for curling up by a crackling log fire on a winter's afternoon.

Reese is an independent but emotionally vulnerable heroine. Alex is a dashing prince who turns up at Reese's family inn, incognito. A teenage mistake that led to family tragedy rules Alex's adult life, making him live by a duty first maxim.

I loved the traditional qualities of this gentle story, the importance of family, loyalty and helping others. All of these were conveyed within the modern setting of a city based inn and a dreamy Mediterranean kingdom.

The chemistry between Alex and Reese is the smouldering kind. Circumstances and proximity combine and result in steamy passion delivered in a sweetly romantic way, in keeping with the story's fairytale world.

Reese is an easy character to like as she struggles with inherited debt and her mother's emotional collapse. Alex is touched by her plight but also by her tenacity and willingness to put others, including him before her own comfort. She is no sugary, sweet heroine, which makes her refreshingly realistic. She can be controlling and impetuous but given the obstacles she faces, this isn't surprising.

Do Alex and Reese have a fairytale 'happy ever after'? Read this delightful story to find out. It has the perfect 'will she', 'won't she' magical ending guaranteed to keep you reading. You won't be disappointed.

I received a copy of this book from the author.

[a:Jennifer Faye|6902849|Jennifer Faye|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1369356170p2/6902849.jpg]

Endgame Sampler

12:00 am 13 October 2014

[bc:Endgame Sampler|22836666|Endgame Sampler|James Frey|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1407108710s/22836666.jpg|42391576]

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This is a review of a sampler of the Endgame.

The blurb for this story reminded me of a fantasy computer game with its twelve players and the quests and battles they must undertake to win and save their genetic line. The characters are vivid and surreal given their young ages. The implication is that they are young faces hiding a wealth of ancient knowledge and skill, which makes them suitable contenders in the game.

An omnipotent force threatens humanity.The inference is that the winner of the Endgame will save their people presumably because they can be trusted to respect the earth. The rest will perish.

From the blurb it is the authors' intention that this story be enacted in a real life, presumably without the violence, to enable people not to the save the world but find the treasure.

I am intrigued to read more of this apocalyptic fantasy adventure.

I received a copy of this sampler from Harper Collins UK Children via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[a:James Frey|822|James Frey|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1207412020p2/822.jpg]

Third Time Lucky

12:00 am 13 October 2014

[bc:Third Time Lucky|21523076|Third Time Lucky (Oxford Blue #3)|Pippa Croft|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1397645650s/21523076.jpg|40847747]

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The traumatic climax of 'The Second Time I Saw You' continues in 'Third Time Lucky' with a dramatic, emotional beginning. Alexander's hold over Lauren continues even though they are estranged. Lauren's reactions and the way she stands by Alexander and Emma, his younger sister shows a level of maturity she didn't possess when she first came to Oxford. The addictive quality of Alexander and Lauren's erotic attraction is apparent in these early chapters. Later in the story, Lauren realises their time together may be finite as their real destinies are geographically and personally worlds apart. The question left unasked is do they love each other enough to compromise?

The physical side of their relationship deepens but the trust evident in the steamy love scenes does not seem to transfer to their wider lives. Secrets and subtle interference from Lauren's parents and the malicious Valentina continue to muddy the already cloudy waters of their relationship.

Life at Oxford as the finals approach mitigates the introspection and intensity of Alexander and Lauren. The attention to detail is great and allows you to experience the fun, idiosyncrasies and traditions of Oxford University.

Perfectly scripted final scenes show a newly independent Lauren who lives life on her own terms but does Alexander fit into her new life? There is definite scope for book number 4.

I received a copy of this book from Penguin Books UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[a:Pippa Croft|7752636|Pippa Croft|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1412616500p2/7752636.jpg]

Dangerous Waters

12:00 am 10 October 2014

[bc:Dangerous Waters|13639559|Dangerous Waters|Anne Allen|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1336499112s/13639559.jpg|19242433]

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This delightful story reflects the island life it depicts; atmospheric, gently paced and full of mystery and romance. The characters are crafted realistically and easy to visualise. This is not an action packed read but the laid back writing style draws the reader into island society and culture. The cast of secondary characters give the story its depth and variety and bring the island community to life for me.

Contemporary favourites cookery and gardening widen the scope of this novel and prevent it from becoming too self absorbed and dark. The descriptions of the cosmopolitan restaurants, food and the cottage garden are vibrant and knowledgeable; as is the insight into the publishing industry.

Jeanne the vulnerable but talented heroine of 'Dangerous Waters' is a writer who returns to her childhood home many years after a traumatic incident drove her back to the mainland. Her chosen career has a dramatic boost when she discovers her grandmother's hidden secrets and much treasured ancestral recipes. Coupled with reconnecting with friends from her school days and deciding what to do with her legacy, Jeanne's day to day life is an absorbing read. Jeanne's poignant flashbacks reveal her traumatic past. Mystery and dangerous undercurrents threaten Jeanne's emotional recovery until she isn't sure who she can trust.

'Dangerous Waters' is definitely worth reading and I look forward to the rest of the Guernsey Novels.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:Anne Allen|5830010|Anne Allen|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1336251622p2/5830010.jpg]

Hard to Forget

12:00 am 4 October 2014

[bc:Hard to Forget|23014306|Hard to Forget (Hard to... #2)|Incy Black|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410230346s/23014306.jpg|42580483]

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'Hard to Forget' is a fast-paced, gritty, sexy story. Full of strong, realistic characters, which showcase this author's amazing, unique voice perfectly. The dark, action- packed scenarios are not for the squeamish. Every unsavoury incident reveals more about Jack and Lowry and those involved in their deadly pursuit.

Jack and Lowry are characterised by their mental toughness and emotional detachment. Haunted by a terrible incident in their professional past, their physical scars hide unwanted emotional vulnerability. This makes them wary of the other's motives and unwilling to acknowledge the desire that draws them together.

The sexual tension between Jack and Lowry explodes into heat and steam and finally love. A happy ever after hangs in the balance. Will they overcome their inner demons and outwit the deadly menace that pursues them?

This story is relentless there is no time to sit back and relax but it's worth the angst. 'Hard to Forget' has the addictive quality of a spy novel combined with the grit and realism of a psychological thriller.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:Incy Black|8135912|Incy Black|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-d9f6a4a5badfda0f69e70cc94d962125.png]

To Catch a Star

12:00 am 3 October 2014

[bc:To Catch a Star|23008226|To Catch a Star|Romy Sommer|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1408965973s/23008226.jpg|42575134]

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Like all good fairy-tales 'To Catch a Star' starts gently, with heroine Teresa and hero Christian keeping their emotional distance from each other. This romantic modern fairytale full of secrets and emotion explores misunderstandings, pride and passion.

Christian is an A' list actor making a film on location in Westerwald. His meeting with Teresa is suitably dramatic for the start of any film but it is their delicate and slow burning relationship that keeps readers turning the pages.

The fatalistic elements in this story make it heart warming and satisfying. The underlying connection with the other books in this series adds mystery to this tale but the story is also a delightful stand alone read.

Emotionally stunted by their traumatic pasts Christian and Teresa help each other to embrace their fears and achieve the lives they both deserve.When Christian and Teresa finally give in to their desires the result is steamy and sensual.

I loved the ending; fairytale and full of drama with a delightful twist.

I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[a:Romy Sommer|6603454|Romy Sommer|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1408716159p2/6603454.jpg]

The Love List

12:00 am 2 October 2014

[bc:The Love List|23246723|The Love List|Eve Devon|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1412209346s/23246723.jpg|42789763]

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'The Love List' is a story of contrasts; humour and sadness, business and pleasure, passion and hatred all interwoven to produce a lovely romantic story with a contemporary edge.

Nora King's life is the family company she now runs. It takes all her time and occupies all her thoughts, conveniently allowing her to park her grief for the loss of her father at the bottom of her to do list. The only non business luxury she allows herself is shoes and one particular pair walk her into romance with the larger than life Ethan who takes his role as trouble shooter both in his business and personal life very seriously.

Nora is a witty, geeky woman who hides behind her business attire to avoid emotional upheaval. Her feminine obsession with shoes is the only snippet of the true Nora she allows to surface. Ethan is a man of action who constantly uses his adventurous streak to help other in disaster situations. This 'hands on' help is a kick back to his childhood and parents who were money rich but emotionally poor when it came to their offspring.

The romance is tender and charming and as it progresses you realise the lovers have more in common than fiery passion. The ending is poignant as befits such an engaging romantic story.

I received a copy from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[a:Eve Devon|7066976|Eve Devon|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1368561907p2/7066976.jpg]

The Emerald Comb

12:00 am 24 September 2014

[bc:The Emerald Comb|23259850|The Emerald Comb|Kathleen McGurl|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1411373233s/23259850.jpg|42801094]

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'The Emerald Comb' is two stories; one historical, the other contemporary, cleverly interwoven with conflict, mystery and passion. The action slips seamlessly from Bartholomew St Clair's 19th century confessions to the 21st century consequences experienced by Katie our heroine. It is an absorbing read.

Katie delves into her ancestry bitten by the contemporary obsession with genealogy. What she finds leads to a house move and more mystery than answers. A possible ghost and a macabre discovery in the garden of their newly moved into house force Katie to question the wisdom of delving into her past. She can't stop. Genealogy gives Katie an identity and focus, something she is in danger of losing amidst her demanding children and unhelpful husband. Seen only from Katie's point of view Simon often seems rather a difficult man to like, who treats her hobby with disdain.

The story highlights parallels between the past and Katie's present life. The secrets both historical and contemporary are resolved in a credible way. The ending is a great bit of dramatic irony. A little inconclusive from Katie's perspective but complete for the reader who knows what really happened. A classy, readable story.

I received a copy of this book from Carina UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[a:Kathleen McGurl|5338108|Kathleen McGurl|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1410205190p2/5338108.jpg]

Without Hesitation

12:00 am 23 September 2014

[bc:Without Hesitation|22570767|Without Hesitation (Without, #3)|C.J. Azevedo|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404927455s/22570767.jpg|42036949]

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'Without Hesitation' is another emotional rollercoaster ride in the fabulous 'Without' series. It pulls you in from the first page and won't let you get off until you've sampled each devastating low and passionate high.

This is a cleverly written book. We experience Macie's and Greyden's present day lives from their points of view but learn about their eleven year love story from a third person point of view. Macie's and Grey's present day love story stands alone full of angst and desire. The story of their past lives and loves enriches and intensifies the emotional depth of the story.

Macie is a complex character. What seems like weakness when she waits for Greysen, until he thinks he can give her what she wants is in fact the behaviour of a girl and then a woman in love. She is very young when she believes herself in love with Greysen and he knows and accepts this. His weakness is in not realising when she becomes a woman, able to make her own decisions and mistakes. The journey they take together and apart allows them to grow and appreciate the change in the other before they can find their happy ever after.

I loved the complexity of this story. Particularly the effortless way the past informs the present emotional characters of Maisie and Grey, a lovely poignant read.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

[a:C.J. Azevedo|7074225|C.J. Azevedo|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1388635287p2/7074225.jpg]