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Once and Forever
From five compelling authors, five original novellas which will make you laugh and cry, and believe in a love that once found will last forever. Meet a duke, a psychic, a bodyguard and a professor…and one "guardian fairy" in absorbing stories ranging from regency and contemporary romance to paranormal and women's fiction.
Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney
Actress Kendall Marshall is determined to get an autograph for her sick sister from famous TV personality Mike O’Hara, the Oprah Winfrey of sports. In the process she meets his brother, security consultant Steve Marshall, lands a job on O’Hara’s show and gets in the way of a man set on causing big trouble. As the stalkers attacks escalate, Steve and Kendall are thrown together and find it impossible to ignore the chemistry between them.
The Princess & the Pinot by Elaine Fox
When a beautiful woman shows up at the Vineyard Inn, wine manager Kim is certain she’s been sent by fate for the inn’s owner, Cooper. Self-effacing to a fault, Kim knows she can’t hold a candle to Principessa Bella, who also seems to know even more about wine than Kim herself, but her heart has belonged to Cooper since they shared one kiss as teenagers.
Kim is afraid Prin will sweep just as surely into Cooper’s arms if she doesn’t do something about it. Can she tell Cooper how she feels without losing even his friendship? Kim is willing to try except for one she’s almost certainly losing her mind. Or is that belching, swearing, smoking, farting fairy – who claims to be trying to help her – real?
Duets by Emelle Gamble
Duets offers alternating looks into the lives of two women who would seem to have little or nothing in common.
Screen star Molly Harper is on the verge of marrying a man who has swept her off her feet, though perhaps hasn’t swept all her feelings for her first love away. Anne Sullivan, happily married for twenty-five years, is fighting to hold onto the man she loves, and hold off a confrontation that could shatter her family’s image of what they are.
Duets confronts a past secret that ties these two women’s lives together, just as chance events turn Molly and Anne’s worlds upside down.
Never and Forever by Lavinia Kent
Molly, Miss Wilkes, runs an employment agency helping women of quality find positions perfected suited to their characters. Although her father held the title of Earl for just over a week before his death, Molly has never wanted to be a lady. She knows her place in this world – and it is not at the center of society.
The Duke of Radford cannot imagine a world without all the privilege and power that comes from being Radford. Why would he ever have interest in a simple woman who doesn’t even understand that she should want to be a duchess?
Can these two overcome the obstacles of their own beliefs and realize that love can make all things possible?
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens
Psychic Martin Sterling doesn't trust cops--and the feeling is mutual. Detective Erin Healy needs more than a ghost story to save her job and reputation. Her partner is dead, a million dollars in drugs and money is missing, and all the evidence points to her.
Can a sexy psychic and a by the book cop, trapped between the living and the dead, unearth the truth? Or will a cold-blooded killer get away with it all...
Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney
Actress Kendall Marshall is determined to get an autograph for her sick sister from famous TV personality Mike O’Hara, the Oprah Winfrey of sports. In the process she meets his brother, security consultant Steve Marshall, lands a job on O’Hara’s show and gets in the way of a man set on causing big trouble. As the stalkers attacks escalate, Steve and Kendall are thrown together and find it impossible to ignore the chemistry between them.
The Princess & the Pinot by Elaine Fox
When a beautiful woman shows up at the Vineyard Inn, wine manager Kim is certain she’s been sent by fate for the inn’s owner, Cooper. Self-effacing to a fault, Kim knows she can’t hold a candle to Principessa Bella, who also seems to know even more about wine than Kim herself, but her heart has belonged to Cooper since they shared one kiss as teenagers.
Kim is afraid Prin will sweep just as surely into Cooper’s arms if she doesn’t do something about it. Can she tell Cooper how she feels without losing even his friendship? Kim is willing to try except for one she’s almost certainly losing her mind. Or is that belching, swearing, smoking, farting fairy – who claims to be trying to help her – real?
Duets by Emelle Gamble
Duets offers alternating looks into the lives of two women who would seem to have little or nothing in common.
Screen star Molly Harper is on the verge of marrying a man who has swept her off her feet, though perhaps hasn’t swept all her feelings for her first love away. Anne Sullivan, happily married for twenty-five years, is fighting to hold onto the man she loves, and hold off a confrontation that could shatter her family’s image of what they are.
Duets confronts a past secret that ties these two women’s lives together, just as chance events turn Molly and Anne’s worlds upside down.
Never and Forever by Lavinia Kent
Molly, Miss Wilkes, runs an employment agency helping women of quality find positions perfected suited to their characters. Although her father held the title of Earl for just over a week before his death, Molly has never wanted to be a lady. She knows her place in this world – and it is not at the center of society.
The Duke of Radford cannot imagine a world without all the privilege and power that comes from being Radford. Why would he ever have interest in a simple woman who doesn’t even understand that she should want to be a duchess?
Can these two overcome the obstacles of their own beliefs and realize that love can make all things possible?
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens
Psychic Martin Sterling doesn't trust cops--and the feeling is mutual. Detective Erin Healy needs more than a ghost story to save her job and reputation. Her partner is dead, a million dollars in drugs and money is missing, and all the evidence points to her.
Can a sexy psychic and a by the book cop, trapped between the living and the dead, unearth the truth? Or will a cold-blooded killer get away with it all...
439 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2013
7 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 3, 2013
I loved this anthology because it showed the many faces of romance and the diversity and richness of a well-loved genre. If you like romance novels, you'll love this collection of novellas.
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens is a paranormal romance/mystery tour de force--a clever paranormal mystery with interesting twists that blindside you even when you're looking for them. When Erin Healy, a disgraced police detective who struggles with a lack of faith must join forces with a sexy, tortured psychic to clear her name after a drug bust gone wrong, she's surprised by the truth she uncovers. The author shines a powerful spotlight on the human condition, illuminating those hopes and fears we all struggle with when we question what we think we know and those circumstances we cannot explain. Faith, self-discovery, and an awakening of love are all the hallmarks of this novella by this talented debut author. I adored Psychic Detective and I hope we see more of this dynamic duo and their psychic-detective adventures! More please!
Mary Blayney's Playing for Keeps is a fun, contemporary romance set in the heart of New York City that gives us the same subtle storytelling mastery the author has applied to historical romance novels for years, only this time she plies her craft within a contemporary framework. Quirky actress Kendall Marshall is pulled into a plot of intrigue and danger when she becomes the audience handler for talk show host Mike O'Hara. But she's attracted to and irrevocably intertwined with Mike's brother, Steve--who provides security for hotshot celebrities--when the threat becomes personal. Blayney's deft hand with characterization and romance perfectly renders sympathetic characters with whom we immediately fall in love and gives us a sweet love story with a gentle, yet insistent tension that draws us through the story one page at a time. The hero and heroine's chemistry is palpable and we're rooting for them from the get-go. The characters and setting came alive for me and I wanted more. I loved it. I can't wait to read Jessica and Mike's story!
Elaine Fox's The Princess & The Pinot is a lovely, compelling contemporary fairytale told in the author's original spellbinding voice. The story has the rich feel of a contemporary with fantasy elements. The Princess & The Pinot is a touching friends to lovers story where a pot-bellied fairy plays cupid to Kim O'Shea, a vineyard shop manager, to help her discover the love she deserves and that has been right under her nose in the form of Cooper, the co-owner of The Vineyard Inn, who she's known since childhood. Add a beautiful princess who applies for the sommelier position and requests mattress after mattress for her bed, and you have the modern-day retelling of The Princess and The Pea. I found this story captivating and original.
Duets by Emelle Gamble is the perfect prequel to Molly Harper, a full-length novel due out later this month. Gamble employs the same masterful emotional tension in this novella that she gave us in Secret Sisters, her novel out earlier this year. At the heart of Duets is a love triangle between actress Molly Harper, her long-time family friend Cruz Morales, and actor Ben Delmonico that is bound to tug at the reader's heart. This is the story of star-crossed lovers and the lies we tell ourselves to make the best of a bad situation. A complicated women's fiction story packed into a novella length, Duets is a well-written story that elicits a true emotional reaction from readers, priming us for the continuation of this story in Molly Harper. I'll be eagerly waiting to find out, as they say ... the rest of the story. Loved it.
Never and Forever is a Regency-set historical romance with heaps of heart and sexual tension. The first time spunky heroine Molly Watson, who runs The Watson Agency for the Placement and Advancement of Ladies of Quality and Comportment, crosses paths with Radford, a duke looking for a companion for his mother, sparks fly. After the duke accuses Molly of providing ladies for placement schooled in the art of seduction, he propositions her, asking her to become his mistress. They're off to the races when she declines. Throw in a country house party, a secluded walk in a maze, a clandestine night-time meeting in a garden, and a few hot kisses and you have the ingredients for a Regency romp filled with enough sexual tension to curl the pages of your e-reader. I adored this story and can't wait to read the next installment of Radford and Molly's love story.
All in all, this is a robust anthology where any romance reader will find exactly what they're looking for ... love, passion, and a great escape! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. ;0)
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens is a paranormal romance/mystery tour de force--a clever paranormal mystery with interesting twists that blindside you even when you're looking for them. When Erin Healy, a disgraced police detective who struggles with a lack of faith must join forces with a sexy, tortured psychic to clear her name after a drug bust gone wrong, she's surprised by the truth she uncovers. The author shines a powerful spotlight on the human condition, illuminating those hopes and fears we all struggle with when we question what we think we know and those circumstances we cannot explain. Faith, self-discovery, and an awakening of love are all the hallmarks of this novella by this talented debut author. I adored Psychic Detective and I hope we see more of this dynamic duo and their psychic-detective adventures! More please!
Mary Blayney's Playing for Keeps is a fun, contemporary romance set in the heart of New York City that gives us the same subtle storytelling mastery the author has applied to historical romance novels for years, only this time she plies her craft within a contemporary framework. Quirky actress Kendall Marshall is pulled into a plot of intrigue and danger when she becomes the audience handler for talk show host Mike O'Hara. But she's attracted to and irrevocably intertwined with Mike's brother, Steve--who provides security for hotshot celebrities--when the threat becomes personal. Blayney's deft hand with characterization and romance perfectly renders sympathetic characters with whom we immediately fall in love and gives us a sweet love story with a gentle, yet insistent tension that draws us through the story one page at a time. The hero and heroine's chemistry is palpable and we're rooting for them from the get-go. The characters and setting came alive for me and I wanted more. I loved it. I can't wait to read Jessica and Mike's story!
Elaine Fox's The Princess & The Pinot is a lovely, compelling contemporary fairytale told in the author's original spellbinding voice. The story has the rich feel of a contemporary with fantasy elements. The Princess & The Pinot is a touching friends to lovers story where a pot-bellied fairy plays cupid to Kim O'Shea, a vineyard shop manager, to help her discover the love she deserves and that has been right under her nose in the form of Cooper, the co-owner of The Vineyard Inn, who she's known since childhood. Add a beautiful princess who applies for the sommelier position and requests mattress after mattress for her bed, and you have the modern-day retelling of The Princess and The Pea. I found this story captivating and original.
Duets by Emelle Gamble is the perfect prequel to Molly Harper, a full-length novel due out later this month. Gamble employs the same masterful emotional tension in this novella that she gave us in Secret Sisters, her novel out earlier this year. At the heart of Duets is a love triangle between actress Molly Harper, her long-time family friend Cruz Morales, and actor Ben Delmonico that is bound to tug at the reader's heart. This is the story of star-crossed lovers and the lies we tell ourselves to make the best of a bad situation. A complicated women's fiction story packed into a novella length, Duets is a well-written story that elicits a true emotional reaction from readers, priming us for the continuation of this story in Molly Harper. I'll be eagerly waiting to find out, as they say ... the rest of the story. Loved it.
Never and Forever is a Regency-set historical romance with heaps of heart and sexual tension. The first time spunky heroine Molly Watson, who runs The Watson Agency for the Placement and Advancement of Ladies of Quality and Comportment, crosses paths with Radford, a duke looking for a companion for his mother, sparks fly. After the duke accuses Molly of providing ladies for placement schooled in the art of seduction, he propositions her, asking her to become his mistress. They're off to the races when she declines. Throw in a country house party, a secluded walk in a maze, a clandestine night-time meeting in a garden, and a few hot kisses and you have the ingredients for a Regency romp filled with enough sexual tension to curl the pages of your e-reader. I adored this story and can't wait to read the next installment of Radford and Molly's love story.
All in all, this is a robust anthology where any romance reader will find exactly what they're looking for ... love, passion, and a great escape! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. ;0)
March 22, 2014
Overall I had considerable mixed feelings about this anthology. Some stories I loved, some I wasn't as enamoured with, but overall it was certainly a worthwhile read and a great way to find out about some new authors (whose books I'll be buying for sure!).
I enjoyed Playing For Keeps quite a lot. I loved the author's voice and style, and the characters were fun and interesting. I do wish the story had been long enough to really get to know both sets of siblings better ... we only get a taste of the two who aren't the primary H/H, but it looks as if they may have their own story and I'm going to hunt that sucker down. The story itself was cute, if a bit predictable and the heroine, Kendall, was a hoot. She certainly kept Steve on his toes. This rates as one of the my favorite selections of the book.
I had a love/hate relationship with The Princess & the Pinot. I loved the hero and heroine and most of the storyline, but I did not love the fairy. I think the author was touching on the Princess and the Pea with Prin as well, and I honestly wish the time spent with the fairy had been spent on more character development. I could see so much potential, and I think the conflict and premise of the story would have stood on its own without the addition of that element and would have given her more space to create a stronger story. I wonder, too, if Prin is going to have her own story someday.
Duets was an anomaly in this anthology. The other stories were clearly romances, but Duets was not. It is womens fiction pure and simple, so was a bit of a disappointment to this romance reader. That said, however, the author is clearly talented. Her writing is well done, concise and interesting and her characters well developed. If she wrote in a genre I enjoyed more, I'd be a steadfast fan. If you're a fan of womens fiction, you could do worse than reading Emelle Gamble.
Never and Forever was both annoying and frustrating, but also did its job well -- I'm sold on Lavinia Kent. She made her characters so real, and the story incredibly interesting. What was annoying? That it was more a "moment in time" story with no real ending, than an actual complete story. When I came to the end, I sat in shock when I realized there was no more to the story and had to restrain myself from tossing my ereader at the wall. I was so angry! I wanted a resolution, I wanted satisfaction ... I wanted more. Kudos to the author for making this a story and characters I cared about so much. This couple had BETTER show up again and finish their story, or I will find the author and shake her.
My favorite story of the anthology was The Psychic Detective. Complete (and after Never and Forever, this was a HUGE plus), fun and unique, it made me want to start over and read it again as soon as I was done. It had adorable, interesting characters that mattered to me and a plot that was intriguing and fun. I've never read this author before, but I'm definitely adding her to the list of ones to watch. If she can entertain me this much again, she'll have a hardcore fan.
Again, overall this was a neat set of stories in a plethora of genres which allowed me to get a taste of authors I'd never read before. None were wall-bangers and I'd say that I enjoyed the writing style and voice of every author in the collection. If you're looking for a sampler, and to add some new authors to your list of ones to buy, I'd recommend this as a good place to start.
I enjoyed Playing For Keeps quite a lot. I loved the author's voice and style, and the characters were fun and interesting. I do wish the story had been long enough to really get to know both sets of siblings better ... we only get a taste of the two who aren't the primary H/H, but it looks as if they may have their own story and I'm going to hunt that sucker down. The story itself was cute, if a bit predictable and the heroine, Kendall, was a hoot. She certainly kept Steve on his toes. This rates as one of the my favorite selections of the book.
I had a love/hate relationship with The Princess & the Pinot. I loved the hero and heroine and most of the storyline, but I did not love the fairy. I think the author was touching on the Princess and the Pea with Prin as well, and I honestly wish the time spent with the fairy had been spent on more character development. I could see so much potential, and I think the conflict and premise of the story would have stood on its own without the addition of that element and would have given her more space to create a stronger story. I wonder, too, if Prin is going to have her own story someday.
Duets was an anomaly in this anthology. The other stories were clearly romances, but Duets was not. It is womens fiction pure and simple, so was a bit of a disappointment to this romance reader. That said, however, the author is clearly talented. Her writing is well done, concise and interesting and her characters well developed. If she wrote in a genre I enjoyed more, I'd be a steadfast fan. If you're a fan of womens fiction, you could do worse than reading Emelle Gamble.
Never and Forever was both annoying and frustrating, but also did its job well -- I'm sold on Lavinia Kent. She made her characters so real, and the story incredibly interesting. What was annoying? That it was more a "moment in time" story with no real ending, than an actual complete story. When I came to the end, I sat in shock when I realized there was no more to the story and had to restrain myself from tossing my ereader at the wall. I was so angry! I wanted a resolution, I wanted satisfaction ... I wanted more. Kudos to the author for making this a story and characters I cared about so much. This couple had BETTER show up again and finish their story, or I will find the author and shake her.
My favorite story of the anthology was The Psychic Detective. Complete (and after Never and Forever, this was a HUGE plus), fun and unique, it made me want to start over and read it again as soon as I was done. It had adorable, interesting characters that mattered to me and a plot that was intriguing and fun. I've never read this author before, but I'm definitely adding her to the list of ones to watch. If she can entertain me this much again, she'll have a hardcore fan.
Again, overall this was a neat set of stories in a plethora of genres which allowed me to get a taste of authors I'd never read before. None were wall-bangers and I'd say that I enjoyed the writing style and voice of every author in the collection. If you're looking for a sampler, and to add some new authors to your list of ones to buy, I'd recommend this as a good place to start.
April 17, 2014
I loved this anthology because it showed the many faces of romance and the diversity and richness of a well-loved genre. If you like romance novels, you'll love this collection of novellas.
The Psychic Detective - This is an interesting paranormal mystery and this one gets 4 1/2 stars. For me, it was prob the best of the lot. A drug bust gone wrong leads to Detective Erin Healy questioning things that can't be. She's also disgraced at the Department and all signs point to her being the bad guy. With no other options, she lets a friend introduce her to the sexy psychic Martin Sterling and his partner, Rose. Erin is a non-believer that is forced to face things she never expected and Martin is drawn to the mystery when nothing is as usual. What is uncovered is unexpected and the connection between Erin and Martin is wonderful. I hope we see more of this couple and the psychic-detective adventures!
Playing for Keeps - 4 stars - Kendall Marshall is pulled into a dangerous situation when she becomes the audience handler for talk show host Mike O'Hara. Kendall is a funny actress that you can never quite believe, but she's attracted to Mike's brother, Steve, security expert for celebrities. The threats become personal and Kendall always seems to be in the midst of them. The chemistry between Mike and Kendall is great and you can't help but root for them.
The Princess & The Pinot - 3 stars - This is a funny story that I'm sure some people would realy enjoy, but was just a bit much for me. The pot-belly fairy and the ever changing names was strange and even though I get the tie in to Kim's childhood, was just strange for me. Another strange thing was the mattress obsession that Pricess Beautiful has. The actual story between Kim and Cooper is wonderful, though, when you take out these oddities.
Duets - 4 miserable starts - Miserable stars because this is a prequel and I didn't realise it. Molly and Cruz love eachother, but can't be together because of Molly's career as an actress. Cruz is in a relationship and Molly is too. Molly's boyfriend, actor Ben Delmonico, has proposed and Molly has agreed. Things go very bad at the engagement party and Cruz comes to save the day. Molly and Cruz kiss, but he pushes her away. The day of the wedding, Cruz ends up in a crash on the way to the wedding location. His life hangs in the balance, but nobody knows why he's coming there. Is he coming to talk to his mom after a fight with his girlfriend? Is he coming to stop Molly? Molly has to decide if she is going to Marry Ben or hold out for Cruz. The story ends with a huge cliffhanger at the cusp of her decision!!! There is also a side story about a couple across the country. You get the feeling these stories entertwine, but how is unclear until the end. Now I NEED to know the rest!!
Never and Forever - 3 stars - Cute story about Molly Watson, who runs The Watson Agency for the Placement and Advancement of Ladies of Quality and Comportment, and Radford, a duke looking for a companion for his mother, sparks fly. Sparks fly with these 2 and they can't stop picking at eachother. Add in that Molly is actually a lady (even though she doesn't want to be) and it adds an additional twist.
This was an ARC copy provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
The Psychic Detective - This is an interesting paranormal mystery and this one gets 4 1/2 stars. For me, it was prob the best of the lot. A drug bust gone wrong leads to Detective Erin Healy questioning things that can't be. She's also disgraced at the Department and all signs point to her being the bad guy. With no other options, she lets a friend introduce her to the sexy psychic Martin Sterling and his partner, Rose. Erin is a non-believer that is forced to face things she never expected and Martin is drawn to the mystery when nothing is as usual. What is uncovered is unexpected and the connection between Erin and Martin is wonderful. I hope we see more of this couple and the psychic-detective adventures!
Playing for Keeps - 4 stars - Kendall Marshall is pulled into a dangerous situation when she becomes the audience handler for talk show host Mike O'Hara. Kendall is a funny actress that you can never quite believe, but she's attracted to Mike's brother, Steve, security expert for celebrities. The threats become personal and Kendall always seems to be in the midst of them. The chemistry between Mike and Kendall is great and you can't help but root for them.
The Princess & The Pinot - 3 stars - This is a funny story that I'm sure some people would realy enjoy, but was just a bit much for me. The pot-belly fairy and the ever changing names was strange and even though I get the tie in to Kim's childhood, was just strange for me. Another strange thing was the mattress obsession that Pricess Beautiful has. The actual story between Kim and Cooper is wonderful, though, when you take out these oddities.
Duets - 4 miserable starts - Miserable stars because this is a prequel and I didn't realise it. Molly and Cruz love eachother, but can't be together because of Molly's career as an actress. Cruz is in a relationship and Molly is too. Molly's boyfriend, actor Ben Delmonico, has proposed and Molly has agreed. Things go very bad at the engagement party and Cruz comes to save the day. Molly and Cruz kiss, but he pushes her away. The day of the wedding, Cruz ends up in a crash on the way to the wedding location. His life hangs in the balance, but nobody knows why he's coming there. Is he coming to talk to his mom after a fight with his girlfriend? Is he coming to stop Molly? Molly has to decide if she is going to Marry Ben or hold out for Cruz. The story ends with a huge cliffhanger at the cusp of her decision!!! There is also a side story about a couple across the country. You get the feeling these stories entertwine, but how is unclear until the end. Now I NEED to know the rest!!
Never and Forever - 3 stars - Cute story about Molly Watson, who runs The Watson Agency for the Placement and Advancement of Ladies of Quality and Comportment, and Radford, a duke looking for a companion for his mother, sparks fly. Sparks fly with these 2 and they can't stop picking at eachother. Add in that Molly is actually a lady (even though she doesn't want to be) and it adds an additional twist.
This was an ARC copy provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
April 18, 2014
I never read novellas I’m a novel person. The longer the better. Having said that, I love to mix up my genres but I always want some kind of romance. I came across Once and Forever and was intrigued by the description of each book. The only author I was familiar with before picking this book up was Emelle Gamble. I happen to admire her work.
Talk about a “colorful” anthology! Five quick romance novellas that run the gamut of romance. Mystery, fantasy, paranormal, contemporary and regency are all weaved in this montage of entertaining stories. I enjoyed each and every one of them and now have four more authors to add to my reading possibilities.
Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney: A fun and sexy mystery/romance. Featuring Kendall Marshall the sometimes-actress and Steve O’Hara the owner of a successful security company. The banter and tension between the two is witty and creative. Seems to me this story is setting up a possible connection between Steve’s brother, Mike O’Hara, the famous sports talk show host and Kendall’s sister, Jessica, the wealthy quilter extraordinaire. I sure hope so.
The Princess and the Pinot by Elaine Fox: A fun romance with a bit of fantasy thrown in. Kim O’Shea has loved Cooper since she was fifteen he just doesn’t know it. Prin, a new employee at the winery Kim and Jack both work at (who just happens to be a bombshell) crushes Kim’s spirits but a disgustingly humorous fairy comes along to help her out. Wine enthusiasts will love this story.
Duets by Emelle Gamble: A prequel to the novel, Molly Harper, this contemporary novella provides background and insight into secrets that are unraveled in the follow up full-length novel. The relationship between Cruz Morales and Molly Harper is strained yet undeniably one that neither of them wants to end even though they are not together. Meanwhile, another family faces an inevitable tragedy that leads them to Molly Harper. A great introduction to a wonderful novel that I have read and would highly recommend.
Never and Forever by Lavinia Kent: A short, yet steamy, historical romance that left me wanting more. Molly Watson and Duke of Radford seem to have an unlikely attraction to each other. I can’t say more without spoiling it but I’m looking forward to a follow up to the way this one ended.
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens: Paranormal romance/mystery. Officer Erin Healy meets Martin Sterling the “psychic” private investigator under some very unusual circumstances. Although she doesn’t believe in anything but scientific evidence, she’s desperate and needs his help to uncover what really happened the night she was wounded and why she’s being blamed. Sort of a “sixth sense” crime teaser. Great plot!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Talk about a “colorful” anthology! Five quick romance novellas that run the gamut of romance. Mystery, fantasy, paranormal, contemporary and regency are all weaved in this montage of entertaining stories. I enjoyed each and every one of them and now have four more authors to add to my reading possibilities.
Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney: A fun and sexy mystery/romance. Featuring Kendall Marshall the sometimes-actress and Steve O’Hara the owner of a successful security company. The banter and tension between the two is witty and creative. Seems to me this story is setting up a possible connection between Steve’s brother, Mike O’Hara, the famous sports talk show host and Kendall’s sister, Jessica, the wealthy quilter extraordinaire. I sure hope so.
The Princess and the Pinot by Elaine Fox: A fun romance with a bit of fantasy thrown in. Kim O’Shea has loved Cooper since she was fifteen he just doesn’t know it. Prin, a new employee at the winery Kim and Jack both work at (who just happens to be a bombshell) crushes Kim’s spirits but a disgustingly humorous fairy comes along to help her out. Wine enthusiasts will love this story.
Duets by Emelle Gamble: A prequel to the novel, Molly Harper, this contemporary novella provides background and insight into secrets that are unraveled in the follow up full-length novel. The relationship between Cruz Morales and Molly Harper is strained yet undeniably one that neither of them wants to end even though they are not together. Meanwhile, another family faces an inevitable tragedy that leads them to Molly Harper. A great introduction to a wonderful novel that I have read and would highly recommend.
Never and Forever by Lavinia Kent: A short, yet steamy, historical romance that left me wanting more. Molly Watson and Duke of Radford seem to have an unlikely attraction to each other. I can’t say more without spoiling it but I’m looking forward to a follow up to the way this one ended.
The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens: Paranormal romance/mystery. Officer Erin Healy meets Martin Sterling the “psychic” private investigator under some very unusual circumstances. Although she doesn’t believe in anything but scientific evidence, she’s desperate and needs his help to uncover what really happened the night she was wounded and why she’s being blamed. Sort of a “sixth sense” crime teaser. Great plot!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
January 6, 2014
One of those books that read totally easily from cover to cover... It didn't take me long to finish this one, despite its 300+ page count. Yes, it is broken down into 5 different stories, so it wasn't a "tedious" round through one single story. But even this doesn't account for the ease of falling into this book and just keep on reading. Every author pens her tale with a flowing voice and the almost whimsical tone of every story carries you along and you are done with one item before you can blink.
Each story stands good on its own. My only peeve was that Emelle Gamble's Duets and Lavinia Kent's Now & Forever read more like prequels to other stories than tales that give us an ending, never mind a happy one.
But still, that being said, it doesn't take any from both of these stories. I'll admit I grabbed this book for review more because Emelle Gamble had a story in there - I've loved her significant touch brought to family relationships in a previous book of hers that I've read, and I wanted to confirm if this sort of embroiled-relationships type of tale is really her niche or not. Turns out, it is!
Of the other authors, I have read Lavinia Kent's work before, and loved her 'realistic' spin on historical tales. I knew I could count on her for jump-off-the-page characters, and lol, Radford did not disappoint there!
Discovered Mary Blayney and her knack for writing quick and flowing, qitty dialogue - I think Playing For Keeps is the story that I read fastest in this collection, because it just went on and didn't have any lull throughout. Elaine Fox provided some good laughs with her irreverent fairy, and her characters were also a delight to read.
But the one that most impressed me was Evie Owens. Seems like this is her first story...or her first time in an anthology? I dunno, but I absolutely loved her tale! I think it just might be my favourite in here - I love a good mystery with a huge dose of romantic and sexual tension, and she delivered this with a flourish in her tale. The twists and turns? I did not see them coming, which made for an even more enjoyable journey.
A good book to while away an afternoon - there's something for every taste, though you'll prolly end up enjoying every one of these stories.
Each story stands good on its own. My only peeve was that Emelle Gamble's Duets and Lavinia Kent's Now & Forever read more like prequels to other stories than tales that give us an ending, never mind a happy one.
But still, that being said, it doesn't take any from both of these stories. I'll admit I grabbed this book for review more because Emelle Gamble had a story in there - I've loved her significant touch brought to family relationships in a previous book of hers that I've read, and I wanted to confirm if this sort of embroiled-relationships type of tale is really her niche or not. Turns out, it is!
Of the other authors, I have read Lavinia Kent's work before, and loved her 'realistic' spin on historical tales. I knew I could count on her for jump-off-the-page characters, and lol, Radford did not disappoint there!
Discovered Mary Blayney and her knack for writing quick and flowing, qitty dialogue - I think Playing For Keeps is the story that I read fastest in this collection, because it just went on and didn't have any lull throughout. Elaine Fox provided some good laughs with her irreverent fairy, and her characters were also a delight to read.
But the one that most impressed me was Evie Owens. Seems like this is her first story...or her first time in an anthology? I dunno, but I absolutely loved her tale! I think it just might be my favourite in here - I love a good mystery with a huge dose of romantic and sexual tension, and she delivered this with a flourish in her tale. The twists and turns? I did not see them coming, which made for an even more enjoyable journey.
A good book to while away an afternoon - there's something for every taste, though you'll prolly end up enjoying every one of these stories.
February 12, 2014
While I knew these were novellas, I had no idea that most were going to end on cliffhangers with either no follow-ups, as in the case of the fourth story, or one that continues on three years later in another book, novella #3. Did I miss that somewhere in the synopsis? Wish I knew because I'm kinda pissed off now. Here you're reading along, happy as a little lark and BOOM! Story is over, the end, peace out, better luck next time and blah blah blah blah.....you've got nothin!
Yep, that's pretty much how this one went. Get all wrapped up in the story and the characters and then the rug is just pulled right out from under you! I kinda feel like I'm being forced into rehab without the twelve step program to recovery here.....you're addicted but.... we're gonna take that away from you now, cutting you off cold turkey!
You know authors, I'm giving you three stars because truly, I liked where each story was headed....can't say much for any conclusion because yea, there wasn't one. You would have gotten two stars but I liked the leprechaun character in story 2.
3 pretty shaky stars.....
Yep, that's pretty much how this one went. Get all wrapped up in the story and the characters and then the rug is just pulled right out from under you! I kinda feel like I'm being forced into rehab without the twelve step program to recovery here.....you're addicted but.... we're gonna take that away from you now, cutting you off cold turkey!
You know authors, I'm giving you three stars because truly, I liked where each story was headed....can't say much for any conclusion because yea, there wasn't one. You would have gotten two stars but I liked the leprechaun character in story 2.
3 pretty shaky stars.....
November 20, 2013
So this is a 5 story book. They were short and to the point you got to have a taste of of everything. I liked that they were short. This is a great breakroom book or waiting in the doctors office. Its too much to write a review for all the books so I will just rate each book. I will say i think this book is worth it to buy it's like a chocolate tray , a little bit of everything. ;)
1: Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney-4 (lots to take in,but good)
2:The Princess & the Pinot by Elaine Fox-4 (a little out there but in a good way)
3:Duets by Emelle Gamble-3 stars (more a prequel)
4:Never and Forever by Lavinia Kent-5 stars (my favorite one)
5:The Psychic Detective by Evie Owens- 4 stars (different set up the your normal books,)
April 7, 2014
Overall, this collection is better than most. The stories are more equal in entertainment value, I guess is what I mean. Too often you'll find one great story and others that may or may not hold your attention, but that's not the case here.
A delightful way to sample some new authors, or a nice collection to squeeze into stolen moments.
*A copy was given through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
A delightful way to sample some new authors, or a nice collection to squeeze into stolen moments.
*A copy was given through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
July 29, 2016
All these authors are new to me and i have to say i was surprised how much i enjoyed all of them! I can't wait to read more from these authors! its a must read
I received a free copy from netgallery in exchange for a honest review.
I received a free copy from netgallery in exchange for a honest review.
January 5, 2014
Once and Forever is a four novella anthology about finding love. The stories were entertaining and quick reads. While I didn't love every story, I did like being exposed to four authors whose work I hadn't read before.
December 29, 2013
Only read the one by Lavinia Kent "Never and Forever". I would have liked to read the rest of the story -- part 2.
October 9, 2017
This is a compilation of 5 novellas which in the end, seemed more like short stories.
Playing for Keeps: I actually DNF'd this story. Most romances are cliche and formulaic. I like knowing there is going to be a HEA at the end. But when the characters and scenes are also cheesy and cliche and not terribly well-written, it is not enjoyable.
The Princess & the Pinot: I actually enjoyed this story the most. It was predictable and a little cheesy but it was also sweet and actually gave me a happily ever after tied up in a pretty bow.
Duets: I don't even know what to say. This story almost made me throw my Kindle. A typical love triangle with smarmy guy at one point and quiet sensitive guy at the other. I knew what was supposed to happen. I thought it was headed that way....and then it just ended. And had notes at the end that made it clear this was just an introduction to another book. So frustrating.
Never and Forever: This one had the makings of a classic romance: dashing duke with no desire to marry paired with an independent lady who cares nothing for marriage or family brought together by meddling older family members. I liked all of the characters, the dialogue was fine, there was just the right amount of passion without crossing into erotica.....and then, it too....ended abruptly.
The Psychic Detective: This book had a very interesting plot. Female cop needs to solve a mystery and clear her name. Gritty private detective who communicates with the dead. This story was going somewhere interesting too before it just ended.
With the exception of the first story, I felt the writing was decent with engaging characters. One pretty unique plot line and the others were variations on a theme but they were shaping up into nice little romances. But three of the four I read were not complete stories and that really frustrates me.
(I'd give it 1 star but the stories did interest me enough to bump it to 2).
I was provided an eARC by the publisher for review purposes. Here is my honest review.
Playing for Keeps: I actually DNF'd this story. Most romances are cliche and formulaic. I like knowing there is going to be a HEA at the end. But when the characters and scenes are also cheesy and cliche and not terribly well-written, it is not enjoyable.
The Princess & the Pinot: I actually enjoyed this story the most. It was predictable and a little cheesy but it was also sweet and actually gave me a happily ever after tied up in a pretty bow.
Duets: I don't even know what to say. This story almost made me throw my Kindle. A typical love triangle with smarmy guy at one point and quiet sensitive guy at the other. I knew what was supposed to happen. I thought it was headed that way....and then it just ended. And had notes at the end that made it clear this was just an introduction to another book. So frustrating.
Never and Forever: This one had the makings of a classic romance: dashing duke with no desire to marry paired with an independent lady who cares nothing for marriage or family brought together by meddling older family members. I liked all of the characters, the dialogue was fine, there was just the right amount of passion without crossing into erotica.....and then, it too....ended abruptly.
The Psychic Detective: This book had a very interesting plot. Female cop needs to solve a mystery and clear her name. Gritty private detective who communicates with the dead. This story was going somewhere interesting too before it just ended.
With the exception of the first story, I felt the writing was decent with engaging characters. One pretty unique plot line and the others were variations on a theme but they were shaping up into nice little romances. But three of the four I read were not complete stories and that really frustrates me.
(I'd give it 1 star but the stories did interest me enough to bump it to 2).
I was provided an eARC by the publisher for review purposes. Here is my honest review.
December 24, 2016
Please see individual stories for review.
August 23, 2016
***copy provided by publisher through NetGalley***
Playing for Keeps was cute (in its own way) and quick, but somewhat "overcrowded" in parts. I know the author wrote another story featuring Kendall's twin sister and Steve's brother, but at the beginning, it felt like she was cramming both stories into one, so the start felt a little off. Also, the twist was rather predictable once it was revealed there was a second O'Hara around, and while the heroine's "acting quirks" were fun at the beginning, the more it went on, the more annoying it was.
Overall, despite the "suspense", the story was rather bland and generic with not chemistry, beside what we were told, between the characters, and it turned out the "suspense plot" that was the entire basis of the story was no plot at all, ending as quickly as it began.
The Princess & the Pinot was hard to get through, and we're talking about a short story, here. I didn't know what genre I was reading. Was it a paranormal one? A regular romance? Young adult, since the heroine struck me as terribly immature. And what was with the "woman sent by fate for the hero" and all those mattresses? Was that an allusion to The Princess and the Pea? And if it was...Why?
Duets it what on a webpage would be "click-bait", since the Coming Soon at the end of the story promises a full-length book, titled after the main female character, in which "three years after the end of Duets [the heroine, the man she loved and the man she married] will face the consequences of fate, family secrets, and their own personal decisions.
I'll pass on that one, since I hated this "prequel". I loathed the heroine who selfishly wanted the man she loved to compromise while never considering doing it herself, I loathed her because she settled for second best since she didn't get what she wanted, I hated the first hero for being an idiot and putting up with her until she broke it off and still carrying a torch for her while impregnating his current girlfriend, and I hated the second hero for being idiot enough to want to marry the loathsome heroine. If they will face the consequences of fate, family secrets, and their own personal decisions it's entirely their own fault for being idiots.
Is this even a romance?!
Never and Forever was a little weird. I loved the beginning with all the banter and sparkage between Molly and Radford. You could feel the tension and the attraction, and I loved the girl for showing gumption and not bowing down to the insufferable male.
But in the second part it felt like she (actually both of them) suffered a character transplant and gone was the Molly I liked. It was like her Lady Mary persona has taken over. Why was she so friendly toward Radford when they met again? Did something happen in between we weren't privy of? She was thinking about how insufferable he was, so I'd expected her to act all aloof, but there she was, making nice with him...And more.
And let's not talk about the last scene, in the garden at night. Because Radford had also suffered from a character transplant by then. It was like reading an entirely different story than the one we started with. You know, the funny, cute, funky story from the first two chapters or so...And the open ending is just an utter nuisance, especially since I cannot find the sequel to Molly and Wills story.
Disappointing.
The Psychic Detective was the best of this bunch. It still seemed too crowded with suspense and paranormal, but it somehow worked, although the final revelation took too long. The suspense part was good, and the final reveal came as a surprise (yay, it wasn't predictable), the romance was a bit rushed, and seemed to only make sense after reading the epilogue, the pacing was good, and I wouldn't mind reading a sequel with the two P.I.'s partnering up.
Yes, the best of the bunch, but that's not saying much.
Playing for Keeps was cute (in its own way) and quick, but somewhat "overcrowded" in parts. I know the author wrote another story featuring Kendall's twin sister and Steve's brother, but at the beginning, it felt like she was cramming both stories into one, so the start felt a little off. Also, the twist was rather predictable once it was revealed there was a second O'Hara around, and while the heroine's "acting quirks" were fun at the beginning, the more it went on, the more annoying it was.
Overall, despite the "suspense", the story was rather bland and generic with not chemistry, beside what we were told, between the characters, and it turned out the "suspense plot" that was the entire basis of the story was no plot at all, ending as quickly as it began.
The Princess & the Pinot was hard to get through, and we're talking about a short story, here. I didn't know what genre I was reading. Was it a paranormal one? A regular romance? Young adult, since the heroine struck me as terribly immature. And what was with the "woman sent by fate for the hero" and all those mattresses? Was that an allusion to The Princess and the Pea? And if it was...Why?
Duets it what on a webpage would be "click-bait", since the Coming Soon at the end of the story promises a full-length book, titled after the main female character, in which "three years after the end of Duets [the heroine, the man she loved and the man she married] will face the consequences of fate, family secrets, and their own personal decisions.
I'll pass on that one, since I hated this "prequel". I loathed the heroine who selfishly wanted the man she loved to compromise while never considering doing it herself, I loathed her because she settled for second best since she didn't get what she wanted, I hated the first hero for being an idiot and putting up with her until she broke it off and still carrying a torch for her while impregnating his current girlfriend, and I hated the second hero for being idiot enough to want to marry the loathsome heroine. If they will face the consequences of fate, family secrets, and their own personal decisions it's entirely their own fault for being idiots.
Is this even a romance?!
Never and Forever was a little weird. I loved the beginning with all the banter and sparkage between Molly and Radford. You could feel the tension and the attraction, and I loved the girl for showing gumption and not bowing down to the insufferable male.
But in the second part it felt like she (actually both of them) suffered a character transplant and gone was the Molly I liked. It was like her Lady Mary persona has taken over. Why was she so friendly toward Radford when they met again? Did something happen in between we weren't privy of? She was thinking about how insufferable he was, so I'd expected her to act all aloof, but there she was, making nice with him...And more.
And let's not talk about the last scene, in the garden at night. Because Radford had also suffered from a character transplant by then. It was like reading an entirely different story than the one we started with. You know, the funny, cute, funky story from the first two chapters or so...And the open ending is just an utter nuisance, especially since I cannot find the sequel to Molly and Wills story.
Disappointing.
The Psychic Detective was the best of this bunch. It still seemed too crowded with suspense and paranormal, but it somehow worked, although the final revelation took too long. The suspense part was good, and the final reveal came as a surprise (yay, it wasn't predictable), the romance was a bit rushed, and seemed to only make sense after reading the epilogue, the pacing was good, and I wouldn't mind reading a sequel with the two P.I.'s partnering up.
Yes, the best of the bunch, but that's not saying much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2014
The Psychic Detective- Enjoyed the story and thought the characters were well thought out. I liked that the gender roles were reversed (usually a male detective and female psychic). I liked the mystery and paranormal aspects.
Playing for Keeps- Short and simple read. Kendall Marshall was quirky but was annoying. Steve O'Hara is your typical security consultant. I liked the story plot and can't wait to read about Jessica and Mike. I liked that the couple didn't fall into love right away and live happily ever after. The story showed the beginnings of very a promising couple who is letting fate take them where it leads. It was a good read and I enjoyed the story line.
The Princess and The Pinot- A play on the story of The Princess and The Pea. Kim is in love with her childhood friend Cooper and has never done anything about it. A princess enters and shakes up Kim's comfortable lifestyle. Thrown into the mix is a belching, beer-bellied fairy who tries to help Kim in revealing how she feels to Cooper. It was simple sweet love story which made you happy once you were done reading it.
Never and Forever- Molly Watson runs a staffing agency who finds her self attracted to the Duke of Radford. This unlikely pair finds that they have a sizzling attraction for each other but realizes they don't fit into each others worlds. I liked the story a lot but was disappointed that I have to read yet another novella to find the conclusion. I wished this was the complete story.
Duets- Molly Harper is an actress who is getting ready to marry a fellow actor but always in her mind is her ex-boyfriend Cruz Morales. It is also the story of Anne Sullivan whose husband is dying and has to put things in order before he does but she is struggling with confronting a past she hasn't thought about since she was 16. I found this story to be very confusing and didn't like that it was a introduction to the actual book titled Molly Harper. This was the least favorite of all the stories in the book. Molly was marrying a man she didn't love and most of the characters were hiding something but it was just hints that left one confused.
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2016
I have mixed feelings about this anthology. Overall it was a worthwhile read and a great way to find out about some new authors I had not read before.
Playing For Keeps – 4 stars. I loved the author's writing style and the way she developed her characters. She had me laughing at the banter between the twins. I really connected with Kendall and Jessica but I wanted to know more (maybe a second book?). This short story could have been much longer.
The Princess & the Pinot – 2 stars. This is just not my typical read as I do not like princess/prince stories. Too much like a fairytale and thus more dreamy than reality.
Duets – 3 stars. I would not recommend it to most of my friends, as I really love hot steamy romance novels with alpha males and a bit of suspense but overall it was a good read. Duets is the story of two women and their lives. Molly, a famous superstar, is in love with a man from her past who is not her fiancé. Anne is fighting to protect her marriage despite life getting in the way.
Never and Forever – 4 stars. An emotional roller coaster that will leave you with a true book hangover. Her writing was outstanding which made it hard to put the book down. It was way too short! Please tell me there will be another book.
The Psychic Detective – 4 stars. It is a paranormal romance that you just can’t put down. Very well written and overall a great story.
Playing For Keeps – 4 stars. I loved the author's writing style and the way she developed her characters. She had me laughing at the banter between the twins. I really connected with Kendall and Jessica but I wanted to know more (maybe a second book?). This short story could have been much longer.
The Princess & the Pinot – 2 stars. This is just not my typical read as I do not like princess/prince stories. Too much like a fairytale and thus more dreamy than reality.
Duets – 3 stars. I would not recommend it to most of my friends, as I really love hot steamy romance novels with alpha males and a bit of suspense but overall it was a good read. Duets is the story of two women and their lives. Molly, a famous superstar, is in love with a man from her past who is not her fiancé. Anne is fighting to protect her marriage despite life getting in the way.
Never and Forever – 4 stars. An emotional roller coaster that will leave you with a true book hangover. Her writing was outstanding which made it hard to put the book down. It was way too short! Please tell me there will be another book.
The Psychic Detective – 4 stars. It is a paranormal romance that you just can’t put down. Very well written and overall a great story.
December 2, 2013
The anthology, Once and Forever, has a range of stories that I have rated 1 to 5, overall a 3. My ratings are as follows starting with the best in this anthology:
5 stars for “The Psychic Detective” by Evie Owens. This is a great, engaging paranormal suspenseful romance. The introduction states that this anthology is introduce Evie Owens, if so I can’t wait to read her next story. Very intriguing, fresh and hooked me right in. In addition, it was a complete story.
4.5 stars for “The Princess & The Pinot” by Elaine Fox, another magical if not quite paranormal story. I liked the characters and wanted them to get their HEA.
3 stars for “Playing for Keeps” by Mary Blayney. This was a very good story, even if the characters especially Kendall is a not the most likeable of characters.
2 stars for “Never and Forever” by Lavinia Kent. Not too bad but read like more of an introduction to a novel that is too follow. The dialogue was stiff and too formal. I really find it hard to believe that people actually once spoke like that to each other.
1 Star for “Duets” by Emelle Gamble. This actually seemed like just an introduction to the Molly Harper series. The characters were selfish caricatures of actors/actresses. If this was a sales pitch to buy the novel, it didn’t work for me.
5 stars for “The Psychic Detective” by Evie Owens. This is a great, engaging paranormal suspenseful romance. The introduction states that this anthology is introduce Evie Owens, if so I can’t wait to read her next story. Very intriguing, fresh and hooked me right in. In addition, it was a complete story.
4.5 stars for “The Princess & The Pinot” by Elaine Fox, another magical if not quite paranormal story. I liked the characters and wanted them to get their HEA.
3 stars for “Playing for Keeps” by Mary Blayney. This was a very good story, even if the characters especially Kendall is a not the most likeable of characters.
2 stars for “Never and Forever” by Lavinia Kent. Not too bad but read like more of an introduction to a novel that is too follow. The dialogue was stiff and too formal. I really find it hard to believe that people actually once spoke like that to each other.
1 Star for “Duets” by Emelle Gamble. This actually seemed like just an introduction to the Molly Harper series. The characters were selfish caricatures of actors/actresses. If this was a sales pitch to buy the novel, it didn’t work for me.
November 5, 2013
*ARC from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Playing for Keeps – I must admit I kept getting confused which sister I was reading about. Not much substance to this one. They meet, get together, work together…throw in a mysterious stalker and you’ve got chaos. Confusing.
Princess and Pinot – Unrequited love peppered with visits from fairies and gnomes set in a wine-tasting competition. While I enjoyed Kimmy and Cooper side-stepping their obvious attraction to each other, the other elements in this story was a strange foray into the paranormal.
Duets – a prequel that left me hanging. Please don’t put a story like this in anthology as a means to have the reader go out and look for the other MORE substantial (I hope anyway) part. Disgusted.
Never and Forever – this was the most enjoyable. A battle of wits between a lord and a lady in trade. Really good banter and decent development.
Psychic Detective – Injured detective and psychic work together to piece the last police assignment gone awry. Nice twist in having the detective be the heroine and the psychic be the hero. Nice whodunit and pretty good supporting characters.
Playing for Keeps – I must admit I kept getting confused which sister I was reading about. Not much substance to this one. They meet, get together, work together…throw in a mysterious stalker and you’ve got chaos. Confusing.
Princess and Pinot – Unrequited love peppered with visits from fairies and gnomes set in a wine-tasting competition. While I enjoyed Kimmy and Cooper side-stepping their obvious attraction to each other, the other elements in this story was a strange foray into the paranormal.
Duets – a prequel that left me hanging. Please don’t put a story like this in anthology as a means to have the reader go out and look for the other MORE substantial (I hope anyway) part. Disgusted.
Never and Forever – this was the most enjoyable. A battle of wits between a lord and a lady in trade. Really good banter and decent development.
Psychic Detective – Injured detective and psychic work together to piece the last police assignment gone awry. Nice twist in having the detective be the heroine and the psychic be the hero. Nice whodunit and pretty good supporting characters.
October 17, 2014
3 STARS
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review).
"Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney
Actress Kendall Marshall is determined to get an autograph for her sick sister from famous TV personality Mike O’Hara, the Oprah Winfrey of sports. In the process she meets his brother, security consultant Steve O'Hara, lands a job on O’Hara’s show and gets in the way of a man set on causing big trouble. As the stalkers attacks escalate, Steve and Kendall are thrown together and find it impossible to ignore the chemistry between them." (From Amazon)
I read the first novella in this anthology as I was interested in Blayney's writing style and if I wanted to start one of her series. I enjoyed her writing but the novella was too short to really make use of the storyline.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review).
"Playing for Keeps by Mary Blayney
Actress Kendall Marshall is determined to get an autograph for her sick sister from famous TV personality Mike O’Hara, the Oprah Winfrey of sports. In the process she meets his brother, security consultant Steve O'Hara, lands a job on O’Hara’s show and gets in the way of a man set on causing big trouble. As the stalkers attacks escalate, Steve and Kendall are thrown together and find it impossible to ignore the chemistry between them." (From Amazon)
I read the first novella in this anthology as I was interested in Blayney's writing style and if I wanted to start one of her series. I enjoyed her writing but the novella was too short to really make use of the storyline.
Read
November 26, 2013Playing for Keeps-2.5 stars
Best way to describe the novella is "cute". It is a simple romane with some cute characters. Although a novella, you do get a little bit of background Witt he female lead. The lead male character could have a great story but feel the length of the story limited both characters. The suspense was small in length, but provided a good back drop for the whole story line.
Best way to describe the novella is "cute". It is a simple romane with some cute characters. Although a novella, you do get a little bit of background Witt he female lead. The lead male character could have a great story but feel the length of the story limited both characters. The suspense was small in length, but provided a good back drop for the whole story line.
December 1, 2013
I try to like romance books, but I just can't. I thought this would be a little easier to digest since it is a collection of novellas. There were two stories I enjoyed, two I couldn't finish, and one that didn't move me in any way. I picked it up as a fun, light read when I wasn't sure what to read next. Rest assured, it likely won't be another romance story.
February 15, 2014
5 novellas that are in no way connected except for the fact they are love stories. I am not familiar with these authors and I admit that I enjoyed Blayney and Fox the most. Good for the busy reader since you can enjoy the whole story in one sitting.
May 1, 2014
only liked 1 story by Lavinia Kent, didn't finish the last story in this book.
May 18, 2014
The first and second stories were good. Nice quick love stories. Third and fourth are prequels to other books. Fifth story was once more good.
May 2, 2016
Took me WAY to long to read, get into some of the "short" stories
July 6, 2016
This contained short stories from several authors, all love stories. I look forward to reading more of these ladies.
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