Romantic Suspense

Romantic suspense is a sub-genre of romance that I feel is quite popular but it's difficult to find a satisfying read. There are a plethora of frail females being protected by hunky ex-military types. It's all rather ho hum. There is lots of heat but the stories aren't very enjoyable. I make a serious effort to find decent romantic suspense for my collection with mixed results.

This month, I had the chance to read an enjoyable one, Desperate Girls by Laura Griffin. While I found the title perplexing the story was solid with a strong capable lawyer in peril by a dangerous killer who has escaped from prison and wants to punish those that put him there. Introduce a hunky ex-military body guard -- well we can't get rid of all the popular tropes -- and you've got an entertaining suspense with just enough heat to make it fun.

It's unusual that I'm not reading books 3 months ahead of publication but I stumbled upon this one just before it was actually released. So here is my review of Desperate Girls by Laura Griffin. If you're a fan of the genre, you might want to give this one a try.

Desperate Girls by Laura Griffin

Brynn Halloran is a defense attorney who is well known for her competence and confidence in and out of the courtroom. Professionally she is on the top of her game but her personal life is much less successful. She’s married to her job and that doesn’t leave much time or energy for relationships.

When a brutal murder occurs, it appears the culprit may be someone she helped put behind bars. He has a vendetta and may be seeking revenge on everyone connected to his case. Including Brynn. When she is saddled with a body guard from a top-notch security firm, sparks fly.

Erik Morgan, former marine and former secret service agent, is the consummate professional. He is determined to keep Brynn safe even if she fights him on every aspect of her security. But as the danger grows, so does their attraction and he will do just about anything to help Brynn win her case, solve her mystery and keep her safe.

Desperate Girls was a very engaging romantic suspense. Brynn was a strong, smart and likable character. Erik was intelligent, capable and loyal. They made a great, if slightly cool, couple and watching them fight their attraction in the midst of a trial and increasing danger made for an entertaining read. There was just enough peril to make the story hard to put down and the twist at the end was unexpected.

I like that the relationship was intense and sexy but the bedroom scenes weren’t over the top. They added to the story without distracting from it.

While I'm still puzzled by the title, this was a very enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of romantic suspense. 4 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

How hard can it be to buy romance novels?

Actually, buying romance novels is pretty difficult. I figured since I enjoy reading and have enjoyed romances all my life it would be a piece of cake. I couldn't have been more wrong.

The romance publishing market is HUGE with thousands of books published annually. According to Romance Writers of America (RWA) romance publishing has estimated yearly sales of $1.08 billion. (https://www.rwa.org/p/cm/ld/fid=580) That's a lotta books! And it's a lot of books to review and consider for purchase.

Prior to embarking on my romance adventures, I purchased for a non fiction collection. Fewer books were published and they were all much more expensive. I'd look in a some trade publications a few times a year and see what was generating buzz or looked interesting and buy it. I took care of updating key areas of the collection and managed my damaged books. Boom! Done!

Now, I have to actively scour sites and trade publications to see what is being published and when. Since so many books are published and so many authors have devoted fans, I have to really, really pay attention. I read many ARCs to see what might be good for my collection and its readers. I do my best to purchase something in each of the 5 sub genres I feel are most popular -- historical, inspirational, contemporary, romantic suspense and paranormal romance.

Today's review is the sequel to a book I highlighted earlier. I really enjoyed The Last Wolf by Maria Vale. It was unusual, smart and engaging. A Wolf Apart is also a wonderful read. If you like paranormal romance, I suggest you give these books a try.

A Wolf Apart by Maria Vale

For years, Elijah Sorensson has lived a successful life. He has sacrificed to manage the business affairs of his people at great personal cost to himself. He despises the man he has become and something inside him is dying. Until he meets Thea Villalobos, who calls to the wild in him as no one has done in years. Can she heal him despite his secrets?

This is the second installment in gripping and unusual Legend of All Wolves series by Maria Vale. And while Elijah is a prickly rather unlikeable character, he has a great vulnerability and loyalty that eventually redeem him.

I found the novel a great blend of suspense and romance. The relationship between Thea and Elijah was engaging and the story, while complete in and of itself, move the overall series arc along. A very fast and engaging read that is surprising thoughtful for a paranormal romance. One of my favorite aspects of this series is that the characters aren’t humans fighting their wolves but wolves who exist with their human selves. The pack structure and lifestyle really add to the world building and reading experiences. I enjoyed this a great deal and highly recommend this novel. 5 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

While I was at the beach in July, I read 6 novels so I have a few more reviews coming soon. Also, my favorite romance list will be ready soon

To re-read or not to re-read, that is the question

June was a pretty stressful month. I had a great deal going on at work, company at the house and a lot of responsibility I just wanted to ignore. When I find myself in that situation, I find myself needing to escape and reading is my escape of choice. When I am super stressed, I tend to re-read beloved, familiar books. I know the story, love the characters and don't need to work that hard to enjoy myself. I also find that I see a book differently upon subsequent readings because I myself am in a different place and observe the tale differently.

This month, I re-read a few of the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. That was to prep for her long awaited book on super villain, Hugh D'Ambray (which was published 6/26/18) and the final Kate book, Magic Triumphs. Then I read a favorite teen read, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley.
I have a few good friends who find re-reading comforting and know some folks who NEVER re-read anything because they already know what happens so why bother? Which camp do you fall in?

With all that stress you'd think I didn't read anything new, but I did. When I went back over my notes, I found I read 4 new books throughout the month. Here's a review of three. The fourth is the next book in the October Daye series by the fabulous Seanan McGuire but I'll post that review closer to the novel's publication date.

The Good Luck Charm by Helena Hunting

Lilah has had some tough breaks in life. And at the end of one of the worst days the man who broke her heart and walked away, walks back into her life. Ethan knows he made a huge mistake and nothing in his life seems to have gone well since he left Lilah. After 8 years, he’s moving back home and wants Lilah back, if she’ll have him.

This is a cute second chance romance. Lilah and Ethan were childhood friends and high school sweethearts. After Ethan broke off their relationship so he could pursue his hockey career, his parents became Lilah’s surrogate family. Lilah has worked hard, adjusted her goals and made a solid life for herself even if her relationships haven’t been so successful. Ethan has been traded to the home team, just in time to help with a family emergency that throws he and Lilah together often.

Watching them work out their relationship is fun. What I really enjoyed about this couple is how they didn’t communicate well but learned to be honest and improve their ability to talk about what was important to them. And I liked Ethan’s fixation with luck and ritual and how he learned that skills and hard work are the best good luck charm.

This was a quick, fun, light read and I recommend it and I'll be buying it for my collection. 4 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Brave New Earl by Jane Ashford

Benjamin Romilly, Earl of Furness, is a melancholy widower who has given up on finding happiness. He is so broken hearted he has withdrawn from society and ignores his young son, who reminds him of his deceased wife. Jean Saunders, is a cousin by marriage. When she hears rumors the earl’s son is neglected, she insinuates herself into household to save the child.

Jean’s sudden arrival causes a furor in the house and in the earl’s life and she just might be the woman to heal his heart and a delightful battle of wills ensues.

I was interested in the premise of Brave New Earl – broken hearted earl, lonely reforming minded female unite over a child and sparks fly. The story was cute and the writing and dialogue were enjoyable. However, there were a few plot points that spoiled the narrative for me. Probably my biggest issue was the fact that anyone would be concerned that a father took little interest in his son. It was very common for children to be cared for by nurses and governesses. Parents of both sexes often did not handle the daily care of their offspring. The other issue I had was regarding the household servant and attendant for young Geoffrey. Tom is a young wanderer with no references of any kind. It is extremely unlikely, even if the staff had full reign to hire servants to deal with the Lord’s rambunctious child, that a stranger would be given care of the earl’s heir. I found this unrealistic situation extremely distracting.

Overall, this was a fairly enjoyable if predictable read. 3 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Matrimonial Advertisement by Mimi Matthews

Historical romance runs the gamut from sweet to steamy, historically accurate to wildly implausible and everything in between. Each type has its charms. However, I’ve always been drawn to historically accurate period pieces. I don’t mind some steam but I like it to be realistic to the time period. Mimi Matthews delivers the goods in the best possible way.

Her characters are interesting and believable. The stories are unusual with witty dialogue and top-notch writing. The best aspect is her wonderful attention to period details. Mimi Matthews is a new favorite author for historical romances.

The Matrimonial Advertisement takes us to the wild coast of Devon, where Helena Reynolds has traveled in response to an advertisement of a man, Justin Thornhill of Greyfriar’s Abbey, who in search of a wife. She is full of secrets and in need of protection. He is bitter, scarred and oh so loyal. The evolution of their relationship is such fun to read and the revelations of the characters secrets drives the story. An enjoyable read from beginning to end – I gave a little sigh when I finished.

Other novels from Ms. Matthews have been in a slightly shorter format and I feel the writing and pacing were a little tighter than in this longer length novel. However, this was a very enjoyable read and is the first in a series so there is more to look forward too. I plan to purchase this for my collection and will recommend to library patrons. 4 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I get asked all the time what my favorite romance is. As if it is possible to choose just one! However, I am compiling a list of my favorites. Novels that  I love and return to again and again. I'll be sharing that with you soon!

May reviews! Save your sanity, read a romance novel!

OK, that is a little bit ridiculous but the escapism abundant in romance novels provides me with an outlet from mundane life and daily stress. I've read a fair few novels this month but obviously I have failed at my weekly goal of blogging. No worries, I will just share all my reviews here at once!

Here are the May reviews.

The Viscount and the Vicar’s Daughter by Mimi Matthews

I buy romance for a public library so I read many, many romances of all varieties. Although I have never read any books by Ms. Matthews, I took a chance on "The Viscount and the Vicar's Daughter" and I'm so glad that I did. While the tropes are familiar -- innocent, impoverished, companion with a mysterious past is compromised at a notorious house party by notorious rake -- the writing here is light and fresh and the dialogue is first rate. The novel is quite short so there is limited character development or time for the romance to build however that did not diminish my enjoyment. At the end of the day, I had a great time reading the story and that is what romance is all about, a fun, escapist fantasy. This one was a winner for me and I will buy all of Ms. Matthews books for my collection. 5 Stars.

The Princess by Elizabeth Elliott

Historical fiction was one of my first loves and the novel Desiree by Annemarie Selinko turned me on to reading when I was 9 years old. So, I’m a sucker for historical romance and am very fond of medieval romances and they aren’t written as much. For these reasons, I was excited to read The Princess by Elizabeth Elliott. Sadly, the novel didn’t match my expectations.

Isabel is a king’s widow and the daughter of King Edward of England. Her personal circumstances necessitate a quick remarriage and her father has chosen Faulke Segrave, a seasoned warrior with ties to Wales. The marriage will be secure for Isabel and further her father’s political machinations. Neither party is enthusiastic and the first meeting does not go well.

However, very rapidly the couple discovers a burning physical attraction and chemistry that cannot be denied so they decide to make the best of their situation and get to know one another in order to best foster a civil alliance. What follows is chapters and chapters of silly dialogue and meaningful staring contests. Both Isabel and Faulke were fairly superficial characters and I wasn’t drawn to either of them or their story. When they finally arrived at their wedding night I giggled at the very modern take on intimacy. The master schooling the wife to accept his touch was just too much.

The characters and dialogue are very modern, and quite distracting here. The period details are virtually nonexistent and limited to clothing descriptions. I’m not expecting to read Chaucer’s English but current slang (i.e. Okaaay) took me out of the story again and again. The mystery, what there was of it, was fairly predictable and easily solved. While reading I found myself thinking about really great medieval romances I had read in the past.

While I think that for the right reader, this novel would be a fun, escapist read, it didn’t meet any of my needs for a historical. I probably wouldn’t seek out any of Ms. Elliott’s novels in the future. 2 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

Stella Lane is brilliant, wealthy and has her dream job as an econometrician who writes algorithms to determine customer purchases. She also lacks dating experiences and is somewhat socially awkward. Since she has Asperger’s syndrome, she gets along much better with numbers than people. Realizing her deficits and wanting to stave off her matchmaking mother, she hires escort Michael Phan to help her learn how to get the hang of intimate relationships. Michael has his own issues and can’t really turn Stella down.

This novel was a charmer. Stella is quirky and likeable. Michael is sweet, talented and a family guy. Amid the backdrop of San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Stella and Michael’s romance plays out with hysterical, tender and often painful moments. Stella begins to find a pattern to Michael’s lessons and Michael finds himself drawn more and more to Stella. There was drama, some predictable and some surprising. This was a very, very enjoyable read. The insight into Asperger’s, while unique to every individual, were interesting. And, the view into Michael’s Vietnamese family and their culture was appealing.

My one critique is that this is a quite a sexy little read, and for me, that was a bit distracting. The super-hot sexy scenes didn’t seem in keeping with feel of the novel and I felt less sexy would have kept the novel on a more even keel. Even with that, the novel is a quick-paced, fast read. I finished with a smile on my face. I would recommend this to those looking for a fun, quirky contemporary romance and I have purchased it for my collection. 4.5 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

How to Walk Away by Katherine Center

Margaret Jacobsen is on top of the world with her dream job and new engagement to her fiancé who she loves. Until the most unexpected thing happens, and she must face the reality that her life may never be the same again.

This wasn’t so much a romance novel but a novel of overcoming challenges and the relationships that make it possible. It was a wonderful ride. Margaret is a likeable character who engenders compassion from the reader. I cheered for her every step of the way. And as she struggled and struggled with her family and friends and care givers, I was touched by some very poignant moments. While some of the scenarios were a bit unbelievable and the epilogue wrapped things up a bit too tidily, they didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story.

Ultimately, I found this novel engaging and entertaining. And, I found a new favorite quote and that is always memorable. “You just have to choose to make the best of things. You only get one life, and it goes forward. And there are all kinds of happy endings.” Highly recommend. 5 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Some YA Recommendations

Exo by Fonda Lee

When you read a great deal of YA, you realize that two things are incredibly popular. Dystopian, where the world is a mess and the teens are the heroes, and WWII historical fiction. You also get a fair smattering of angsty, tragedy infused, coming of age stories.

I am not opposed to any of these plotlines. I feel that each has a place in the reading canon of the young adult. Honestly, I am a big believer in reading whatever motivates you. Hopefully a story enjoyed motivates a reader to read some more.

Having said all that, there can still be a very familiar quality to so many YA stories. They hit the same tropes. You read a slew of similar plots because that is what kids are reading and that is what is selling. I accept this as part of the genre but it is really, really a wonderful surprise when a YA novel deviates from the standard. And such is the case with Exo by Fonda Lee.

Exo is a straight up science fiction novel. Aliens, space ships, the works. But the story is very believable and the characters very engaging. Earth has been an occupied territory for more than 100 years. The invaders have brought technological advancements and after a period of rebellion have set up a beneficial working relationship. But “Sapiens” are humans who will do anything to drive out the aliens. Donovan Reyes is the son of the Prime Liason and an “exocel”. At age 5, he was biologically enhanced and is now a security soldier. When a routine search goes, horribly wrong, he is kidnapped and sees a whole different side to the resistance. His entire belief system is questioned and he struggles to understand right and wrong, and duty and dedication to a cause.

The story is fast moving and the characters very believable. There is some breathtaking suspense, difficult choices and heartbreak. The characters and the readers ask them self, who is right? What is the right thing to do? The story is a wild, engaging ride but even better, there is so much to think about and talk about.

I loved every minute of this story and highly recommend it. Of course, there is a sequel. I’ll probably read it but I am worried it won’t be able to maintain the energy and purpose of the first novel. 5 stars.

Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia

I like escapist literature and tend to gravitate towards romance and fantasy. Contemporary novels tend to annoy me. They are either too chirpy and unrealistic or unrelentingly depressing and choking on their own angst. Contemporary YA novels are especially mired in angst. Occasionally I’ll read one that touches me but most of them all blend together.

Eliza and Her Monsters is a stand out. It captures just the right tone with characters I could believe in. There is realistic tension and drama and a beautiful message about being good enough that I feel is so important for teens to hear.

Eliza Mirk is a geek. She is quiet, anti-social and has zero scholastic ambitions. She is invisible. But online, Eliza is Lady Constellation, the creator of the wildly popular web comic, The Monstrous Sea. And no one knows who she is. When forced by her homeroom teacher to mentor a new kid, a friendship blossoms and it changes Eliza’s entire life.

There is a lot here about family relationships, anxiety, depression, friendship, goals and finding yourself.  The story was very engaging and while it was pretty obvious where the action was going, the ride was well worth it. I enjoyed the story and felt a rush of sadness when it ended. This is another 2019 Beehive Book Award nominee and I highly recommend it. 5 stars.

Why read poetry when you can read romance?

That is a joke. Really. Poetry is a wonderful thing. And April is national poetry month, so you really should read some poetry and contemplate the beauty of language.

However poetry, for me, is dense and chewy. Or it's full of hidden meanings that stay hidden from my very practical and prosaic brain.

A straightforward romance novel is the perfect escape from the daily grind. And since my house has been full to the rafters with company for the past two weeks, romance has been what has been needed.

Today I bring you the review of two lovely romance novels. One a mild, romantic suspense. And the other is a delightful confection, a choose your own adventure novel. Enjoy!

The Other Lady Vanishes by Amanda Quick

Adelaide Blake is insane. Or is she? Wrongly confined to a sanitarium, Adelaide manages to escape and hides herself in Burning Cove. There, she works at a tea shop and custom blends soothing herbals for the rich and famous who flock to the idyllic seaside town to relax. Adelaide meets many people who aren’t what they seem and when her past finds her, she must find someone to trust to help her solve the mysterious and dangerous events surrounding her.

Everything about this romantic suspense by Amanda Quick was appealing. The novel is set in the 1930’s on the California coast. There is glitz, glamour and mystery. The tone was almost reminiscent of a Victoria Holt novel. And while there is some swearing, violence and intimate contact, the novel overall is quite mild. Not gentle but close and that is refreshing.

The plot-- beautiful, intelligent young heiress who is confined to benefit not one but two villains, was what originally attracted me to this title. I enjoyed the story and while the concept was intriguing, I felt it was a little formulaic. The suspense wasn’t truly suspenseful. Even with these minor issues I felt The Other Lady Vanishes was a fun read and I would recommend it to library patrons looking for a mild suspense. 3 stars.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My Lady’s Choosing by Kitty Curran and Melissa Zageris

Recently, a friend of mine and I were talking about how much fun choose your own adventure novels were when we were kids and we wondered why they weren't written for adults.  When I saw a romance choose your own adventure, or interactive novel, was being published I was intrigued and more than a little curious. I am pleased to say that My Lady's Choosing delivered in every possible way. I had so much fun reading this and I can’t wait to go back and explore every possible storyline.

You, the reader star as the impoverished and downtrodden heroine who is forced by impecunious circumstances to act as companion to the suitably vile, Lady Craven. She forces you to attend her at a ball in a perfectly horrid mustard yellow frock at least 20 years out of date. At the ball, you meet a handful of perfectly intriguing gentleman and then your choices direct your adventures. From the slums of London to the Yorkshire moors, you choose where in the world you will travel for romance and adventure.

The heroes are wonderful caricatures of characters like Mr. Darcy, Heathcliffe and Jamie Frasier. The drama is broad and the humor is very, very tongue in cheek. I laughed quarts. If you want an authentic period piece with overtones of Austen, this might not be your cup of tea. However, if you want a delightful romp, check out My Lady’s Choosing. It’s absolutely delicious!

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

And I know I promised you a review of Exo by Fonda Lee. Have no fear, it's coming. As soon as the rest of my company departs, I will gather my thoughts.

NetGalley

When I was young and got in trouble, my mom would make me stay in my room for the day. It was my favorite punishment because it meant I could stay in my jammies all day and read. I've always been a reader. From the pages of a book, I could explore the world, learn random stuff and escape the confines of my mundane existence. Those are still the reasons I read although at this time in my life, escapism and entertainment are a huge component of my reading choices.

Several years ago, my dear husband gave me a Kindle as a gift. He'd seen me reading on my iPod and decided I really needed one. He was so excited that he gave me my Christmas gift in November because he couldn't wait to see my reaction. The Kindle was a thoughtful gift but I had told him never to buy me one because I would get lost in words and never surface. That pretty much happened and it has been a battle for several years to step out of imaginary worlds.

I'm now on Kindle #3 and working to overcome my addiction.

At first I would buy free books on the Kindle. Over the years I've found a few gems and discovered great new authors and their works. But mostly, I've read poorly written, self published trash. It was easy. It was mindless. And at a very busy time of my life, I didn't care if I couldn't read or I was interrupted because I wasn't really engaged in the story.

Then, I registered for BookBub because I figured it would direct me to better quality books at a discount price. Nope. It seemed the suggestions made for me were more of the same and I continued to find less than elevating choices. Keep in mind I do work in a library. I can bring home any book I want, whenever I want. I can even buy books I want to read and put them on hold for myself. But the lure of the back light is strong -- it lets me read in bed, in the dark, under the covers.

Two things have happened to change my pattern.

Last year I signed up for NetGalley in an effort to encourage myself to look for better things to read. NetGalley is a professional reader service. They provide ARCs (or advanced reading copy) from publishers to folks who read for a living. Bloggers, book sellers, reviewers and librarians. Yeah, me. A librarian. I read a few items but I'm not much of a writer or reviewer. And I was super busy so writing a review was stressful and I mothballed my account.

This year, one of the librarians retired and I was given her collection development assignment. For years I bought for the non fiction collection. I enjoyed it quite a bit but my heart belongs to fiction. But the retirement opened up a spot. In Romance. I'm jokingly called the Trashy Romance Novel Queen of the Orem Public Library so this is a good fit. The fantasy aspect of Romance has always appealed to me. Romance is the ultimate escapist read and I am having a great time buying books across the depth and breadth of the romance genre.

Which has brought me back to NetGalley. In my quest to buy something for everyone, I feel I need to try a lot of new authors and sample new books so I can decide it if it right for my collection. I am now reading many ARCs. Mostly romance titles but also paranormal and fantasy and any other thing that may catch my eye. If I can enjoy it and recommend it, then I'll read it.

So, this blog serves many purposes.

• I can post my NetGalley reviews here.
• I can be honest with myself about what I am reading and hopefully avoid the items that are less than worthwhile. (Sort of like logging your food. If you have to admit you ate it, you'll think twice about it.)
• As a member of CLAU-- the Children's Literature Association of Utah, I sit on the YA committee that helps to choose YA books for the contest. This blog will also provide a place to review those books as well. Hopefully reviewing will help me to do a more thorough job of reading these books.
• And, I can try --at age 52-- to develop new skills. Thinking, writing, creativity. Because that is good for your brain.

So. Thank you NetGalley. Thanks for the many ARCs!

Next time: My review for EXO by Fonda Lee