Review: The Rock by Monica McCarty

Title: The Rock
Author: Monica McCarty
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Highland Guard #11
Publication Date: 29th December 2015
Pages: 416
Book Source:  Pocket Books & NetGalley

Synopsis: The first time he caught sight of Elizabeth Douglas, Thomas MacGowan thought she was a princess. To the son of the castle blacksmith, the daughter of the powerful Lord of Douglas might as well be. When it becomes clear that his childhood companion will never see him as a man she could love, Thom joins Edward Bruce’s army as a man-at-arms to try to change his lot. If he’s harbored a secret hope that he could close the gap between them, he faces the cold, hard truth when Elizabeth comes to him for help. She might need the boy who used to climb cliffs to rescue her brother from the hands of the English, but she would never see the son of a smith as a man worthy of her hand. 

Karen's Thoughts: 

I’m a huge fan of the Monica McCarty Highland Guard series, but sadly I have to say that the The Rock is probably my least favourite. Don’t get me wrong, it is still an enjoyable read with regard to the history and Thom’s place in the Guard, but the romance side to The Rock fell short for me and it had nothing to do with Monica’s writing. I just didn’t like the heroine, Elizabeth.

Every time she said to Thom "Why are you trying to confuse me and make this so difficult?" I felt like strangling her.

Thom fell in love with the Scottish Princess for the first time when he was just a child. He grew up with Elizabeth and her brother and they were very close childhood friends. Thom had always held out hope that he would prove to Elizabeth that he was worthy of her love. What a true fairytale romance -- the Scottish Princess falls in love with the Blacksmith’s son! Elizabeth had other ideas.

For that one treacherous heartbeat, he thought she’d reconsidered. He was so overcome by the rush of emotion that when she looked up at him and said “I need you,” he heard, “I want you.”

Lost in the entrancing sea of her eyes, he’d felt himself falling.  His mouth lowered, and it was only when her eyes widened in shock at what he was doing to do that he snapped back to reality.

“I need your help,” is what she’d said.

Thom was such a strong character and even through Elizabeth’s rejection he still pursued his desire to become someone he believed was not only worthy for her, but for himself. Thom certainly proved he was a more than capable Knight, but also earned his place within The Highland Guard.

If only Elizabeth could have seen what was right in front of her a little earlier, I may have even liked her just a little bit.

I have loved reading this series, it has long been a favourite and one I will re-read many times over the years I’m sure. I can’t believe the next book in the series, book 12 The Ghost is going to be the last!

Guest review by Karen

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Review: The Striker by Monica McCarty

Title: The Striker
Author: Monica McCarty
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Highland Guard
Publication Date: 24th November 2015
Pages: 416
Book Source: Pocket Books & NetGalley

Synopsis: Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife—and himself for trusting her.

Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.

Karen's Thoughts:

If you’ve been reading my reviews on The Eclectic Reader for some time, you may recall I’ve reviewed quite a few of Monica’s books in the Highland Guard series and I’ve loved them all.

I enjoyed The Striker but I found myself getting distracted; might have had something to do with the length of time between book 9 and 10 ... way too long for me ;) 

Whilst reading I found myself trying to recall who was who and at the mention of a Guard’s name, trying to recall their story which pulled me from Eoin and Margaret's story. I think if you're new to the series, reading The Striker as a stand alone, you won't have the same issue. The storyline flows beautifully and you'd be none the wiser. In fact with summer holidays now here, I may go back and do a re-read.

I really do enjoy McCarty’s books, Monica manages to successfully intertwine romance, humour, suspense and history into her storyline. 

I’m generally not a fan of ‘insta-love’ in romance, I prefer to see a build up of two people really getting to know each other before declarations of love are made, but with these two characters I felt them getting swept up by each other, and with Margaret being only 18, it was certainly believable that she would fall for the charismatic Eoin.

Whilst Highlanders might be known for their bravery and tough natures, they do not make good patients when injured ...

After a few minutes of trying to make him comfortable, Lamont gave up.  “Have fun, my lady, I’ll have the lad bring you some whisky for the pain.”

“I don’t need any blasted whisky,” Eoin said.

“Its not for you, it’s for her,” Lamont responded.

And whilst they may not always be known for being romantics, they do have their moments ...

“I was a wild, backward little heathen.  I don’t know what you saw in me.”

He forced her gaze back to his. “You were strong and beautiful and funny and outrageous and sensual as sin, and I loved you from practically the first moment I saw you.”

“You did?”  He nodded.

“I’ve never stopped.  God knows it would have been easier if I had, but you are in my heart, Maggie, and that is where you will stay.”

With the recent success of the Outlander book series being adapted to screen, Highland romance books will be flying off the shelves and I would highly recommend if you want to spend some time being romanced by a Highlander …. then this is a fantastic series to start with. 

Guest review by Karen

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Review: Forever Bound by Deanna Roy + Giveaway

Title: Forever Bound
Author: Deanna Roy
Genre: Romance
Series: Forever Series #4
Publication Date: 28th July 2015
Pages: 300
Book Source: from author for review

Synopsis: Jenny is a girlfriend-for-hire, the platonic kind.

While under contract with her movie director boyfriend, glamour has ruled. Designer gowns. Red-carpet premieres. And, of course, seeing her face in the tabloids.

She loves tabloids.

But her reign has come to an end. Her sugar daddy has fallen in love -- with someone else. Her contract is over and tonight she has to end it publicly by making sure the paparazzi "catches" her with another man.

She just has to find the man.

Chance has been hitchhiking across the US, playing and singing for tips. This is the life he's always imagined, and the farther he gets from his disastrous family in Tennessee, the better he feels.

An unexpected invitation to sing with an indie blues group at a movie premiere party gives him a sweet taste of fame. As a bonus, a beautiful girl with pink dreadlocks only has eyes for him.

But the collision between Jenny and Chance is more emotional and intense than either of them expected. When the scandal hits the news, Chance's family finds him, pushing him to come home and face his demons.

The night has even more consequences for Jenny. She needs to find Chance, but nobody knows anything about him, not even his last name.

Her journey takes her across the country and into the disaster Chance is running from. But she can't give up on him, because what neither of them realized is that sometimes a single night can be the beginning of forever.

It is a standalone HEA that does not require reading any other parts of the Forever series.

Karen's Thoughts: 

Well at 20% on my kindle I'm already in need of a cold shower …

And at 80% I had to force myself to close my kindle and get some sleep … if I hadn’t I would have devoured this book in one sitting.

Jenny’s contracted relationship with Frankie, her sugar daddy movie director, has come to an end. They’ve agreed that she will set up some scandalous snaps for the paparazzi ... media hype for Frankie, just in time for his upcoming movie release.

Chance is a loner and a drifter musician hitchhiking his way around the US, avoiding emotional family issues in his hometown of Chattanooga, Texas. It was really easy to fall a little bit in love with Chance when we meet him in the beginning of the story.

Jenny and Chance end up at the same Hollywood after party, Jenny on Frankie’s arm and Chance jamming with the band hired for the party. Chance immediately catches Jenny’s eye as the perfect guy for the paparazzi snaps and Chance’s attention is immediately caught by the girl with the pink dreadlocks.

I was surprised I felt such chemistry between Jenny and Chance early on considering Jenny’s reasons for seeking Chance out. The scenario didn't really scream hotness for me, more like tackiness but I instantly felt the connection and it worked in the overall story.

I seriously thought I was reading a novella I flew through this book so quickly, but when I checked the details on Goodreads Forever Bound is actually a little longer than the first book Forever Innocent. My only complaint is that I could have easily read more.

It was lovely that Corabelle and Tina were present in this novel, but Forever Bound is a standalone. I'd still recommend reading the series ... why miss out on Deanna’s other wonderful and touching novels.

Once again, Deanna’s novel offers an emotional and real life situation that families often go through. Whilst this novel isn't about infant loss, it's still about the loss of a loved one.

I highly recommend picking up a Deanna Roy novel, you won’t regret it.  Just make sure the tissue box is within reach.

Guest review by Karen 

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Giveaway:

I'm thrilled to offer readers the chance to win the eBook Forever boxed set, which includes the three full-length novels leading up to Forever Bound. Just leave a comment and ensure you're easily contactable.  

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Giveaway ends 19th September and winner will be announced on my blog. Good luck everyone!

Short & Sweet Review: Last Call by Alice Clayton

Title: Last Call
Author: Alice Clayton
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Cocktail #5
Publication Date: 6th January 2015
Pages: 176
Book Source: Simon & Schuster AU

Synopsis: This Cocktail series novella reunites readers with Caroline and Simon from the wildly successful Wallbanger.

Simon and Caroline are back for another round of baking, banging, and big life changes. Settling in, but never settling down, Caroline has finally struck a balance between the professional and the personal. As one of the top interior designers in San Francisco, she travels all over Northern California between nook time with Simon.

Perpetual globetrotter Simon has cut his frequent flyer miles in half over the last year, preferring to balance his professional and personal life, as well.

The next step in their lives seems preordained—toasts, veils, and the aisle of rose petals. But when an accident on a photo shoot in Southeast Asia brings Caroline the most terrifying phone call she could ever imagine, she has to ask whether “till death do us part” is a more realistic prospect than faces most couples.

It’s been a grand adventure, and Caroline and Simon wouldn’t go out without the best surprise ending ever. One part sexy, one part laughter, a dash of exotic locales, and one pink nightie, mixed with passion, and you’ve got Last Call. Served with a side of Clive.

Karen's Thoughts:

There are two authors that top my list for writing really hilarious tales, Emma Chase is one and Alice Clayton is the other. I’ve reviewed Wallbanger on Goodreads and I was so excited when Teddyree offered me Last Call. 

If questionable language and down and dirty sex offend you then don’t bother picking up the Cocktail series, but if you're not fazed then Alice Clayton is a must read. I guarantee you'll be laughing out loud. 

I wanted to include a funny snippet in my review but I flagged so many pages I couldn't decide which one and maybe read out of context it wouldn't be quite as funny. There's a certain sadness knowing you're reading the final book in a series but I'm consoling myself with the fact that I'll be laughing my head off with The Hudson Valley series coming out later this year. 


Guest review by Karen

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One Wish by Robyn Carr ~ Review & Giveaway

Title: One Wish
Author: Robyn Carr
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Thunder Point #7
Publication Date: 24th February 2015
Pages: 384
Book Source: Harlequin & Little Bird Publishing 

Synopsis: Grace Dillon was a champion figure skater until she moved to Thunder Point to escape the ruthless world of fame and competition. And though she's proud of the quiet, self-sufficient life she's created running a successful flower shop, she knows something is missing. Her life could use a little excitement.

In a community where there are few eligible singles, high school teacher Troy Headly appoints himself Grace's fun coach. When he suggests a little companionship with no strings attached, Grace is eager to take him up on his offer, and the two enjoy…getting to know each other. 

But things get complicated when Grace's past catches up with her, and she knows that's not what Troy signed up for. Faced with losing her, Troy realizes Grace is more than just a friend with benefits. He's determined to help her fight for the life she always wished for but never believed she could have—and maybe they can find real love along the way.

Karen's Thoughts:

I have been a Robyn Carr fan for quite some time, the Virgin River series being one of my favourites, and if you take a look back on The Eclectic Reader you will see some of my previous reviews of the Thunder Point series. I’ve often described Robyn’s books as my ‘comfort’ read, they have a nice relaxed pace, the perfect beach or holiday read. I love some of her books more than others, but regardless I always enjoy them. She writes characters that are a pleasure to re-visit with time and time again.

I can’t say that One Wish is one of my favourites in the Thunder Point series, initially I didn't really warm to Troy and I didn’t ‘feel’ chemistry between him and Grace. Maybe because Troy came across as shallow and a little selfish early on; at one point in the book he gave a description of the characteristics his ideal lady needed to possess to have him consider a relationship rather than  a brief liason ...

For that, he had pretty rigid standards.  First of all, appearance was important.  Not the only criteria, but someone who made an effort, put her best foot forward, kept up her looks.  Next, she had to like to play. 

On the flipside it was refreshing to read a romance that wasn't wham bam instant lust/love and there were certainly some amusing moments. I managed to pick up a new favourite curse via Grace’s Russian Coach. 

“Shit of the gods,” Troy muttered.

... muttered with an authentic Russian accent.

Guest review by Karen

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Giveaway: 

I'm thrilled to offer readers the chance to win a copy of ONE WISH. Just leave a comment and ensure you're easily contactable or leave your email address. Continental US only sorry.

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Giveaway ends 15th March and winner will be announced on my blog. Good luck everyone!

Review: In Your Dreams by Kristan Higgins

Title: In Your Dreams
Author: Kristan Higgins
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Blue Heron #4
Publication Date: 30th September 2014
Pages: 480
Book Source: Harlequin & NetGalley

Synopsis: Emmaline Neal needs a date. Just a date—someone to help her get through her ex-fiancé's wedding without losing her mind. But pickings are slim in Manningsport, New York, population 715. In fact, there's really only one option: local heartthrob Jack Holland. Everyone loves Jack, and he won't get the wrong idea…. After all, Jack Holland would never actually be interested in a woman like Em. Especially not with his beautiful ex-wife creeping around, angling to reunite ever since he rescued a group of teens and became a local hero. 

But when the wedding festivities take an unexpectedly passionate turn, Em figures it was just one crazy night. Jack is too gorgeous, too popular, to ever end up with her. So why is she the one he can talk to about his deep, dark feelings? If Em is going to get her dream man, she'll have to start by believing in him…

Karen's Thoughts:

It's no secret that Kristan Higgins is one of my all-time favourite authors and I get really excited with each new release. I’ve been a fan for a number of years and I have always wished that Kristan would re-visit with some of my favourite characters (I am ever hopeful that she will get the urge to write a HEA for Malone’s daughter…hint hint Kristan!).

So I was nearly doing cartwheels when Kristan announced she was going to write a series.  Originally it was intended as a trilogy I believe, but maybe due to the success of the series, In Your Dreams is the fourth book in the Blue Heron series. 

We've got to know Jack quite well since the first book, The Best Man. He has a wonderful relationship with his family, particularly his sisters. The Holland siblings, Prudence, Faith, Honor and Jack may spend a lot of their time squabbling and getting in digs at each other but when it comes to the crunch, they're supportive of each other and there in times of need. Although Jack wasn't particularly appreciative of this piece of relationship advice Prudence was intent on giving him lol ….

“Keep things lively.  Enjoy all this friction when its new, children, because when you’ve been married for a quarter of a century, you start having to be a little more creative in the boudoir, if you know what I mean”.

“I don’t want to know what you mean.” Jack said.

“I’ll pay you not to tell me what you mean.”

I’ve been patiently waiting for Jack’s story since first meeting him in The Best Man and Emmaline, I thought, was just what he needed. I really hoped that Jack would give Emmaline what she needed, and vice versa, that she would be able to give Jack the support he needed. There are plenty of stumbling blocks to their HEA but you’ll enjoy the journey they take to get there.

If you are a fan of a funny and heartwarming contemporary romance then you really must give Kristan’s books a read and I think the Blue Heron series would be a good place to start.

I'm giving In Your Dreams 5 stars because it just shot its way to the top as my favourite in this particular series.

Guest review by Karen

#1 THE BEST MAN ~ 4.5 stars

#2 THE PERFECT MATCH ~ 5 stars

#3 WAITING ON YOU ~ 4.5 stars

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Review: Forever Sheltered by Deanna Roy

Title: Forever Sheltered
Author: Deanna Roy
Genre: New Adult Romance
Series: Forever Series #3
Publication Date: 23rd July 2014
Pages: 300
Book Source: From author for review

Synopsis: Tina would rather sew up her girl parts with dental floss than go on a second date with a man. She's been dumped enough to know not to get attached.

But when Dr. Darion Marks comes into her art therapy room to ask a favor for a special patient, Tina recognizes the haunted look he buries beneath his stoic professionalism. So rather than be forced to ditch the handsome doctor after a single night, she decides not to date him at all.

So how exactly DO they end up half-naked in Surgical Suite B?

Dr. Darion has a lot to hide. His baby sister is the only family he has left, and he’s not leaving her treatment to some incompetent hack.

But now he’s breaking every hospital rule imaginable. He lied about his sister so he can manage her care, and now he’s banging the art therapy teacher between patient rounds like a fraternity boy at a keg party.

Nobody believes this can end well, not Tina’s friend Corabelle, who is overcoming a tragic history much like Tina’s, or even pink-haired Jenny, who thinks sex with strangers is good for your metabolism.

But Dr. Darion and Tina have one thing going for them – a fierce passion for each other that just might obliterate all their doubts, and solve all their problems.

Forever Sheltered includes many favorite characters from Forever Innocent and Forever Loved, as well as the much-anticipated wedding of Gavin and Corabelle.

Karen's Thoughts:                 

Many of us have experienced miscarriage or suffered infant loss or know someone who has. Even if it has not touched your life directly, as a mother it's difficult to imagine how on earth you can pick yourself up after such a loss. After years of fertility issues I am very blessed to have given birth to four healthy babies. Whilst I was pregnant with my fourth child, one of my closest and dearest friends was also expecting her fourth child. We were very excited to be having babies within months of each other. Sadly her baby boy was stillborn. I can still remember where I was and what I was doing when my husband called me to tell me. He wasn’t able to come home to tell me in person, but he also didn’t want me to hear the news from anyone else, or God forbid if someone posted about it on social media. Many people expected that I wouldn’t be able to face my friend and some even suggested it was heartless of me to attend the funeral as it would be a real slap in the face for my friend to be reminded that I still had a baby to look forward to and she no longer did. I remember how grateful she was that I didn’t avoid her as many friends did. She didn’t blame them, they had no idea how to deal with this tragedy. I recall her proudly showing me the photos that were taken in the hospital and how her baby boy looked absolutely perfect, just like he was sleeping. My friend is now a passionate supporter of SANDS here in Australia and is helping others walk the path that she has walked herself.

Forever Sheltered is the third book in the Forever series and can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend that you read the entire series and Gavin and Corabelle’s journey after the death of their newborn son.

Forever Sheltered centers around Tina and Darion. Tina suffered infant loss herself when she was only a teenager. She’s had a troubled time dealing with her grief and has reached out to her audience, publicly speaking about suicide awareness. At the end of the second book in this series, Tina is offered a job at a hospital as an art teacher/therapist for patients with long term illness. Through this role she is able to reach out and support patients through art, but likewise I felt they reached out to her as well.

This is where Tina meets the very lovely Dr Darion Marks and what a special young Doctor he is. Tina recognizes a hidden pain in Darion. Tina has stayed well away from relationships after being abandoned by the father of her baby when she needed support the most. She does her best to keep her distance from Darion, but strong chemistry keeps pulling them together. Darion is walking through a web of lies trying to protect the person he loves the most and I found myself desperate to see both Tina and Darion break down walls and be each other’s support.

Deanna Roy has become one of my favourite authors. I was deeply touched by Deanna’s dedications in the book to families affected by cancer.  I applaud Deanna for reaching out to readers in such a personal way.

Guest review by Karen

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Review: Shatter by Erin McCarthy

Title: Shatter
Author: Erin McCarthy
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Series: True Believers #4
Publication Date: 2nd September 2014
Pages: 304
Book Source: Penguin Group & NetGalley

Synopsis: Kylie Warner prides herself on being optimistic, but after finding her best friend in bed with her boyfriend and flunking chemistry, her upbeat attitude has taken a dive. Even an impromptu hook-up with her sexy new chemistry tutor only brightens her mood slightly. After all, it’s not like she’ll ever see the tattooed scholar again…

While he’s a whiz at complex equations, Jonathon Kadisch has trouble when it comes to figuring out women. So when Kylie tells him that she’s pregnant after their night of passion, he’s at a complete loss. He’s prepared to be a good father—unlike his own deadbeat dad—but he’s less prepared to fall for the genuine and alluring blonde bearing his child.

With emotions running high, Kylie wonders if Jonathon’s devotion is out of growing love or looming obligation. And when heartbreak threatens to tear them apart, Jonathon will have to fight for the only girl who’s ever made him feel whole ...

Karen's Thoughts: 

This series has had many and varied reviews, some good and some not so good. It’s a series I have particularly enjoyed and would recommend reading it for yourself.

I really like how the author touches upon issues that are aimed at the College age group. Whilst the issues are not entirely pleasant to read about, I feel they have been quite realistic. In this book Ms McCarthy touches on Kylie’s ex having certain expectations in their physical relationship due to the amount of porn he watches online. Whilst Kylie was trying to be a ‘good girlfriend’ and please Nathan, it wasn’t making her feel particularly good about herself. Finding out that he had slept with one of her best friends has absolutely crushed her confidence. It was refreshing that she was sensible when it came to Nathan and didn’t believe his promises of better things.

Kylie is failing chemistry and here is where we get introduced to the geeky and extremely lovely Jonathon Kadisch, her new chemistry tutor. Fitting that not only is there chemistry on the pages they are studying, but also between themselves. On a whim they share a night together. Their attraction to each was just heart warming. I loved that Jonathon got to show Kylie just how a guy should treat a girl and that she was able to experience that it is about her just as much as it is him. Kylie then discovers she is pregnant yet they barely know each other and have a lot they need to work out.

I loved the geeky Jonathon and the chemistry jokes he shares with Kylie created some lightheartedness in their journey to being together. 

I have really enjoyed Erin McCarthy’s True Believers series and Shatter is most definitely my favourite.  I hope Ms McCarthy has more in store for us in this series.

Guest review by Karen

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