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Barbara Vey

Book Blurbs for the Week

July 9, 2008

Goddess of Light by P.C. Cast
I'm on my way to New York for ThrillerFest, but here to entertain you today are the WW Ladies with their blurbs of the week.

Goddess of Light by P.C. Cast

Read by Emily

Ladies, do you ever wish you could find romance with a man who has real god-like qualities? Who doesn't? Well, Pamela Gray wished for just that, and her wish was granted. She unknowingly calls upon the Goddess Artemis for help. Artemis doesn't want to help the mortal, but when her twin brother Apollo sees the woman, he can't help but come to her aid. Why not get an actual God to give you romance? But when introduced, the pair immediately feels the attraction. They are thrown into a whirlwind romance, but there are many trials in their path. The God Bacchus doesn't want any Gods to invade his find of the Kingdom of Las Vegas, Nevada. He pulls out all the stops to pull the lovers apart. But when tragedy strikes, Apollo has to chose to take Pamela to Mount Olympus or become mortal, and stay with her until they meet again in another lifetime.

I have always enjoyed P.C. Cast's books. They always have all the ingredients to make a wonderful romance. A handsome and trustworthy man, a beautiful and creative woman, an amazing story, and a happy ending; these are all things that I want to read about. This is the third installment in the Goddess Series, each book is about a different being. There are mermaids, and Gods, including Achilles, Aphrodite, Hades, Hecate, Persephone, and this book's own Apollo and Artemis.

Rogue by Rachel Vincent Rogue by Rachel Vincent

Read by Joysann

Though Faythe is the pampered daughter of a Texas rancher, she's still pretty tough. She's reluctantly working as one of her father's enforcers, protecting the territory from the unruly and indiscriminate strays. Strays, as in cats. Werecats. When the first dead body of a stray is found left out for anyone, even humans, to find, Faythe and her Pride work to find the murderer before they are publicly exposed.

This highly enjoyable second book in Rachel Vincent's series is well worth the time to read. I enjoyed the first one, Stray, so it's no less than I expected. I hope the next book has the same kind of fast action, clever writing, and tantalizing mystery; I'm sure looking forward to it.

Dancing in the Lowcountry by James Villas Dancing in the Lowcountry by James Villas

Read by Jan

"Goin' on a roadtrip"...Ella Dubose and her full-blooded Indian companion, Goldie, are off to Myrtle Beach. Miss Ella, is a refined Southern lady "of a certain age" whose family in Charlotte think her comings and goings need to be curtailed in concern for her health.... but Ella has memories and secrets from her youth that she feels the need to be put to rest.

The is the first venture into fiction for James Villas, a noted food and wine editor. I quite enjoyed this well-written book and can only wish him well on any future endeavors.

Taking Care of Business - Anthology

Read by Ann

Taking Care of Business is a sizzling anthology of romance in the workplace. LuAnn McLane's Driven pits a sexy romance author Maxine Mitchell against the mysterious Ian Parker when they need each other to further their writing careers. I'm a huge LuAnn McLane fan because of the humor she puts into her stories. Driven delivers as a romantic comedy.

What happens when a gambler on a hot streak is distracted by a sexy woman? Sparks fly as she tries to learn the secret to his success in What Happens in Vegas by Patricia Ryan. This was my first Patricia Ryan story and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for more.

In Brushstrokes by Toni Blake, Artist Mia Drake’s career collides when she is hired to paint a bar. But it’s not just any bar…it’s the bar of that hot Rick Rose she’s had her eye on since she arrived in town. Rick isn’t too bad with a paint brush himself. As always, Toni Blake delivers a sensual feast.

The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn

Read by Emily

Grace Eversleigh has never really experienced anything for herself. She has spent the last five years working as a companion to the Duchess of Wyndham, and she never realized what a hassle the old woman would turn out to be.

After a confrontation with highwaymen the Duchess sees something in the man who threatens to take their valuables. But Grace couldn't believe that the man, Jack Audley-Cavendish would turn out to be the Duchess' long lost grandson. They are thrown together time and again as the Duchess tries to prove he is the Duke, while belittling the current duke's position. But Jack never wanted a title, let alone that of a duke.

I absolutely love Julia Quinn books, and her newest has not disappointed me. This new series (The Two Dukes series) is one to read. It was immensely enjoyable, and I can't wait for the second book Mr. Cavendish, I Presume. The books are written concurrently, and tell the story of the two perspective dukes.

The Education of Mrs. Brimley by Donna MacMeans

Read by Christy

Emma Heatherston decides to take charge of her own life before her no-good uncle sells her off to the highest bidder. Applying for a teaching position at the Pettibone School for Young Ladies in Yorkshire, Emma falsely claims to be a widow and forges a letter of recommendation from a well known and prominent Lady from London.

Having been warned by the headmistresses immediately upon her arrival about Lord Nicholas Chambers - an artist who lives on an estate next to the school and who has women who call upon him throughout all hours of the night, Emma sees only one way to maintain her charade and teach this class of bedroom intimacies. She calls on Lord Chambers for answers to her many questions and soon discovers that he has mistook her for a hired model who did not show up.

The tension between these two is absolutely smoldering. Though I found it to be a fun, laugh out loud, light read, it still brought about a few tears as each found something in each other - and themselves - that they never thought to find. In this stunning debut, Donna delivers a story that is so captivating, so original (I've never read anything quite like this before!), and is both so sensuous and so light that I wonder how she will ever top this in her future efforts!

Superb and Sexy by Jill Shalvis Superb and Sexy by Jill Shalvis

Read By Joysann

On a leave of absence from her job at Sky High Air, Maddie Stone is distressed when one of her 3 bosses shows up at her rented cabin in the woods. She's been in hiding all these weeks, and the last person she wants involved in her problems is the breath-taking bad boy Brody West. Maddie's family history has caught up with her, and by taking Brody into her confidence, she's putting his life and her heart at risk.

This is Jill Shalvis' third book in the Sky High Air series. The intriguing beginning and the promise of a good romance quickly draws one in. It gave me an enjoyable few hours in the quiet of a hot summer evening.

Bottom Line: "Practically everybody in New York has half a mind to write a book - and does." ~ Groucho Marx

Posted by Barbara Vey on July 9, 2008 | Comments (49)

July 8, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Trish Milburn commented:

Some wonderful books featured here. Donna's has gotten a lot of much-deserved accolades. And I really enjoyed Rachel's first werecat book and am looking forward to reading Rogue after I get past some hairy deadlines.

July 8, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Anna Campbell commented:

Hey, Donna, look what they're saying about your wonderful debut! Congratulations, my friend. Christy, isn't it a fun read? I haven't looked at paint brushes the same ever since I finished it. LOL! And what a lovely hero! Yum! Sigh! Yum!

July 8, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Christine Wells commented:

Ooh, I just got bounced for saying a naughty word (ie a word beginning with 'S' before the word tension.LOL)
Anyway, Donna MacMeans writes ST brilliantly, doesn't she, Christy? And you'll love her latest, The Trouble With Moonlight, too.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Suzanne Welsh commented:

I loved both The Education of Mrs. Brimley, a debut book that Donna brought to life so well, and The Lost Duke of Wyndham, the beginning of a new series by Ms. Quinn. Great reads both.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Julie S. commented:

Donna-LOVED Mrs. Brimley! Wish I could be as daring as Emma! I did NOT want to finish this book and have read it a 2nd time since I got it last winter--just as good if not BETTER the 2nd time around! Congrats and good luck to you on "Moonlight"!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Dianne Castell commented:

The education of Mrs. Brimley was wonderful! Thanks, Donna, for a wonderful read.
And Taking Care of Business is a a real treat. LuAnn McLane, Toni Blake and Patricia Ryan are always entertaining.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Anne Gracie commented:

Barbara, enjoy ThrillerFest -- it sounds like fun. I have the Julie Quin book here by my bed, but am saving it up for a day when I can just wallow in books. Soon, I hope. I also have Donna's second book, which promises to be just as much fun as her first.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Judy F commented:

I loved Donna's and LuAnn's books. They are both must reads for me. The others sound interesting too.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
SCH in Creola commented:

Absolutely loved Donna's debut book!! Her second book, The Trouble with Moonlight, only proves Donna has what it takes to please her readers. Watch this author, she's stunning!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Lisa Cooke commented:

Donna's books are always fun but so is she! I can't wait for the sequel to The Education of Mrs. Brimley. I'm sure it will be steaming.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Lisa Cooke commented:

Donna's books are always fun but so is she! I can't wait for the sequel to The Education of Mrs. Brimley. I'm sure it will be steaming.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Stacy ~ commented:

I am a huge fan of many of these authors and their books - Jill Shalvis, Julia Quinn, LuAnn McLane, Toni Blake. These ladies know how to write wonderful stories that keep me coming back for more.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
LuAnn NcLane commented:

He Ann, thanks so much for your kind words about Taking Care of Business. I had such fun with Driven in that antho! I wish I had someone like Ian to help me write a love scene! LOL

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Jacki Bentley commented:

What wonderful reviews! Congrats James, Julia, Toni, LuAnne, Patricia, Jill. And Donna what a compliment to be original with your debut novel!!!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Caren Crane commented:

I loved "The Education of Mrs. Brimley". Donna MacMeans' debut reads like the novel of a seasoned veteran.

The hero and heroine are well-developed and their story is a complex, emotional journey. The secondary characters were delightful and fun to read.

Donna's second novel, "The Trouble With Moonlight" is also a wonderful read. Talk about different!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Joan commented:

Christy you asked how Donna could follow up a fantastic book like The Education of Mrs. Brimley? Quite simply with her latest title The Trouble With Moonlight.
New, fresh and exciting additions to the world of historical romance fiction.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Toni Blake commented:

Wow, how fun to see TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS featured just a few weeks after my current release, LETTERS TO A SECRET LOVER, was reviewed here. Thanks so much for the wonderful review, Ann : ) And for all the nice comments visitors have posted, too!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Jill Shalvis commented:

Thanks for much for the review, Joysann! Greatly appreciated!!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Jules Bennett commented:

Wow! A blog featuring some of my favorite authors: Toni, LuAnn, Jill, and Donna! What more could a gal ask to wake up to:)

Congrats, ladies, on all the wonderful comments and amazing reads!

Hugs,
Jules Bennett

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Liza commented:

I've only read Jill's book, but it looks like I have even more books to add to my TBB list after these reviews.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Ronda Franklin commented:

Donna's book THE EDUCATION OF MRS. BRIMLEY was wonderful. Emma was daring and complex, and Nicholas was sensual and loyal. The storyline was fast-paced, yet Donna did an exceptional job at developing secondary characters. Can't wait to get through THE TROUBLE WITH MOONLIGHT.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Kay Stockham commented:

What a fabulous line up of authors! Great reviews, ladies.

Christy, wasn't Mrs. Brimley phenomenal?! I absolutely LOVED it!

Kay

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Marcia James commented:

I love checking out the Book Blurbs for the Week! I've read Donna's steamy book and look forward to the sequel!
-- Marcia ;-)

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Elysa commented:

I loved The Education of Mrs. Brimley. The Trouble With Moonlight is on the top of my TBR pile. Way to go, Donna!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Kate Carlisle commented:

Great reviews today! Can't wait to pick up the new Julia Quinn. And I've read Mrs. Brimley and couldn't agree with you more, Christy. Her second book is fabulous, too. I just finished it in a late-night, couldn't-put-it-down reading marathon. It's another keeper!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Anna Sugden commented:

Add another fan of The Education of Mrs Brimley! I loved it from the moment I heard the title - and the book, the romance, the characters all live up to the promise. I have the Trouble with Moonlight ready to read for the flight to San Francisco ... very few interruptions, which is perfect for one of Donna's books.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Lori Foster commented:

Hey Barbara,
As you know, I'm out RVing. LOL. But I got on the internet to check my favorite sites while the dogs are taking their constitutionals (hubby is walking them) and of course I came here.
Wow, you have reviews of some of my absolute favorite books written by some of my favorite people! Very cool.
LOVE Donna Macmeans, Jill Shalvis, LuAnn McLane, Toni Blake and Patricia Ryan.

Great job, reviewers! You can't miss with any of those authors. :-)

Lori

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
mary s commented:

Thanks Barb for these wonderful reviews by the WW women!! Where do I start?!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Rosemry Haggerty commented:

Wasn't Mrs. Brimley wonderful? So's Donna's latest heroine, Lucinda Havershaw, in The Trouble With Moonlight. Lucinda's ability to disappear, when the moon is full, both fascinates and enthralls British Spy, James Locke. And here's something else to get excited about: I've heard Donna's writing a sequel to Mrs. Brimley!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
jo robertson commented:

Great reviews today. I'm an avid fan of Donna MacMeans. The Education of Mrs. Brimley is loaded with s-tension, conflict, and the hero is to die for. This is one historical you won't want to miss.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Saralee Etter commented:

I agree, great reviews. I loved Donna MacMeans' Education of Mrs. Brimley, and simply adored her second book, The Trouble With Moonlight. It's got everything I like: fun, s-tension, a hint of paranormal and a touch of thriller.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Ali commented:

Love the reviews :)
I just looved Taking Care of Business... especially Toni Blake's story... and will definitely have to add Julia Quinn's and Jill Shalvis' book to my shelf this weekend :)

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Donna MacMeans commented:

Gosh - I'm blushing here. Thanks for all the kind accolades. Christy - I'm so happy you enjoy Mrs. Brimley. I think I owe you my first-born (take him - please!!). Lots of fantastic books to be added to my TBR stack. I'm honored to be included with so many fabulous authors.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
LuAnn McLane commented:

Toni and I had such a great time promoting Taking Care of Business with our Love Bug Tour. Ha! Fun memories!

Thanks for all of the wonderful comments. Summer reading is such fun!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
PC Cast commented:

Thanks so much for the lovely review of GODDESS OF LIGHT! This was a fun one to write - Vegas is a great setting and Apollo a fantastic hero.

Those of you who have had trouble finding my Goddess Summoning backlist - Berkley is reissuing them in trade format starting in October with GODDESS OF THE SEA. Happy reading!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Cassondra Murray commented:

Oh, these all look GREAT. Thanks for the excellent reviews. I've read <i>The Education Of Mrs. Brimley</i> and Christy, you're dead on. Donna did a great job with it. And like you, I've never seen a story quite like this--she's pulled of something really unique and yes, she does that tension as well as anybody I've ever read. This is a great book.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Jeanne (The Duchesse) commented:

Fab reviews everyone! I loved Julia Q's latest and adored Mrs. Brimley. Line me up with those who are dying to read Donna MacMean's latest Trouble With Moonlight. I've just gotten it ordered... Some wonderful new TBR's here too...

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Brandy commented:

You can never go wrong with a Jill Shalvis book! And P.C. Casts books bring life and warmth to the myths and legends of anciet Greece.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Brandy commented:

You can never go wrong with a Jill Shalvis book! And P.C. Casts books bring life and warmth to the myths and legends of anciet Greece.

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Becky commented:

Donna and Mrs. Brimley - you rock! Wishing you continued sucess:-)

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Becky commented:

Donna and Mrs. Brimley - you rock! Wishing you continued sucess:-)

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Becky commented:

Oops, I not only had a typo in that post, but it got repeated twice. LOLOL!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Becky commented:

Oops, I not only had a typo in that post, but it got repeated twice. LOLOL!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Carol Ann commented:

Great reviews! Donna, you and Mrs. Brimley continue to rock on!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Laurie commented:

I loved Taking Care of Business - LuAnn and Toni are sweethearts, and I'm so pleased that Donna's Mrs. Brimley finally made it to readers! Jill Shalvis is another all-time, never miss, favorite - Superb and Se*y is fab!!

July 9, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Patricia Sargeant commented:

The Education of Mrs. Brimley was a great read. Hours of enjoyment! I'm looking forward to Donna MacMeans's The Trouble With Moonlight next.

July 10, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Edie Ramer commented:

I definitely will get The Education of Mrs. Brimley and a couple others mentioned. All the books sound great.

July 10, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Robin Gianakopoulos commented:

"Original" is a great way to describe Donna MacMeans debut novel, "The Education of Mrs. Brimley" - along with "fun", "sensual" and a sleep-stealer, since I stayed up half the night to finish it! Can't wait to get my hands on "The Trouble with Moonlight".

July 12, 2008
In response to: Book Blurbs for the Week
Alana Abbott commented:

Hurrah for Rachel Vincent!