INSTANT GRATIFICATION, the latest from Jill Shalvis - there's a giveaway!

Jill Shalvis has a new book, INSTANT GRATIFICATION, about to release (later this month), and for all of you who enjoyed INSTANT ATTRACTION, the first in Jill's "Wilder" series, you're going to love this next installment. If you haven't read INSTANT ATTRACTION, there's still time to snag a copy and catch up with the rest of us!

Blurb:
In Instant Attraction, Jill Shalvis introduced Cameron, Stone, and T.J., the sexy, daredevil brothers who run Wilder Adventures. And for Stone Wilder, the thrill of a lifetime is about to arrive in a surprising package…
THE DOCTOR IS IN DEEP
Wishful, California, is 3000 miles from Dr. Emma Sinclair’s last job in a New York City ER. It may as well be another galaxy. Here, running her father’s clinic for a summer, Emma treats bee stings, stomach flu, and the occasional pet cat. Plus, she has to contend with patients like Stone Wilder: gorgeous, laid-back, and irritating beyond belief. The man laughs at her. A lot. And Emma loathes him. All except that tiny part of her that wants to throw him on her examining table and break every doctor-patient rule in the book…
When Stone tries to help Emma learn to loosen up a bit, he pictures white-water rafting or scenic mountain hikes. Not a mind-blowing affair that shakes them both to the core. Emma’s sure she has no place in a town like Wishful, but Stone knows different. Emma belongs here, in this town, in hislife. And convincing this strong-minded, stubborn, sexy woman of that fact will be a challenge no Wilder man could resist…

My review:
Dr. Emma Sinclair left a successful, satisfying job in a New York City ER to come to Wishful, California and cover her father's practice while he recovers from a heart attack. Preferring the hustle and bustle of the city to the laid back, slow motion pace of Wishful, Emma can't wait for her dad to get back on his feet so she can go home. Outdoor adventurer Stone Wilder makes no bones about wanting Emma, but she's determined to remain independently alone. Until she agrees to strike up an affair with Stone that is, no strings attached. Emma didn't come to Wishful with the expectation of getting to know her estranged father, getting to know and more importantly, starting to care for, Stone Wilder, and she absolutely did not expect to get to know herself as part of the equation.
Stone Wilder is instantly attracted to Emma Sinclair, sparks practically fly whenever he's close to the beautiful doctor. He has known and loved women for a long time so he gets the attraction and the sparks. What he doesn't get is why in the world she's in such an all-fired hurry to get back to New York. He's seriously interested in a long-term relationship, but convincing her to leave her cold, sterile NYC life is proving to be a challenge he's not certain he can win.
Like all Jill Shalvis books, INSTANT GRATIFICATION covers all the bases. Readers will laugh at times, feel giddy at others, experience heartfelt pain, and hold their breath (and then sigh) at the steamy, searing passion. Emma and Stone seem total opposites but truth be told, they both just want someone to love and to be loved in return. I feel certain that readers will agree that this is an excellent follow-up to INSTANT ATTRACTION and I highly recommend this book, and this series, to all romance lovers.

Want a copy? Buzz on over to Amazon - I would note that I recently received an email from Amazon indicating that INSTANT GRATIFICATION has been marked down by 27% - you can't beat that!
Jill has been kind enough to offer a book (winner's choice) from her backlist for giveaway. Leave a comment about Jill's website, her blog, her books, etc. and you'll be entered. I'll draw the winning name on Saturday, June 27. Good luck!
Thanks for checking out INSTANT GRATIFICATION!
Laurie

INSTANT ATTRACTION - a new release from Jill Shalvis - she's giving away books!

The latest release for Jill Shalvis is now available in bookstores and your favorite online booksellers! I've posted some info in the shape of a blurb and review. I hope you'll check them out and then read on to find out how to win a book from Jill!
INSTANT ATTRACTION is
The first in a sensational new series, Jill Shalvis introduces Cameron, Stone, and T.J. Wilder–­ three bad-boy heroes who effortlessly mix breathtaking adventure and scorching sex appeal…
GET WILD…AND THEN GET WILDER…
Accountant Katie Kramer is a quintessential good girl-­ working hard, recycling diligently, all the while trying to ignore the feeling that she doesn’t fit in anywhere. That’s all she wants. Well, that– and amazing sex, and the kind of daredevil escapade she can look back on when she’s crunching numbers in a dusty cubicle. Which explains why she just took a job in Wishful, California, working for Wilder Adventures and Expeditions. Waking up to find a magnificently built stranger towering over her bed– that part defies explanation…
After wandering the planet for months following a life-changing accident, Cameron Wilder has come back to the only home he knows. Under other circumstances, he might be thrilled to find a gorgeous woman sleeping in his cabin, but now, while he’ll risk his body taking clients on adrenaline-drenched excursions, his heart is off limits. Still, Katie’s killer smile triggers something deep in his gut…among other places. Showing her how exhilarating it can be to stop balancing her life as if it was a checkbook is the biggest rush he’s ever felt - and an adventure Katie’s wishing would never end.
My review:
After surviving a horrendous accident that nearly took her life, Katie Kramer decides that it's time to make some changes and take charge of her life and her future. Deciding to take a temporary bookkeeping job for an outdoor adventure business in the Sierras, she's pleased with her decision. Until, that is, one of the owners of the business arrives unannounced in the night, demanding to know why she's in his bed. Despite this initial misunderstanding, sparks fly between Katie and former snowboard champion Cameron Wilder and she soon finds herself in the middle of her very own fast-paced, wild adventure.
Cameron Wilder suffered a career-ending injury and is struggling with constant pain and a near addiction to pain meds. Having been estranged from his family for several months, his homecoming was a welcome surprise for everyone. Even more unexpected than his return is his instant attraction to Katie. He typically prefers low-intelligence snow bunnies, not smart, sensible, sweet girls like Katie Kramer. His family at Wilder Adventures repeatedly remind Cameron that employees are off-limits to the owners but Cameron can't help himself. He figures they're both adults, they both know that Katie's position is temporary, and when the time comes they'll simply move on. But that plan proves to be less than perfect when it's time for Katie to leave.
Jill Shalvis writes with great emotion and has a real talent for injecting just the right amount of humor at just the right time. Cameron and Katie are irresistible. Both are slightly damaged and more than a little vulnerable - imperfect enough to be perfect for each other. Secondary characters with their own stories are an added bonus to the story. I highly recommend this book to all contemporary romance lovers. If you've enjoyed Jill's books in the past, you're going to love this one! If you're new to Jill's work, this is the first book in a fun new series - there's no better place to start!

Interested in the giveaway? I thought so! Jill is giving away a copy of the reprint of Aussie Rules or Get a Clue to two lucky winners - or a backlist choice if the winners prefer. Go to her website and look around - come back and tell us about something you saw there - a recent blog topic, an upcoming release, a great cover, etc. and you'll be entered. I'll draw winning names on Saturday, February 7th.
Tempted? I hope so! I'll help you out - click your way over to Amazon to get your copy!
Thanks for allowing me to review INSTANT ATTRACTION for you, Jill, and thanks to everyone for taking the time to check it out!

Laurie

HEATING UP THE HOLIDAYS - with a giveaway!

My pal Jill Shalvis is one of the three authors in the Blaze anthology, HEATING UP THE HOLIDAYS. As you've probably figured out from the cover, these are firefighter romances and while yes, they are short, they are incredibly sweet and (no pun intended, seriously) they're hot! I'm not doing a review because I'm way late with already scheduled reviews for Karin Tabke and Elizabeth Scott (Janice Maynard's alter ego) - but I did do a quick read and I recommend it to everyone who enjoys Christmas romances.
I'm giving away a copy of HEATING UP THE HOLIDAYS and all you have to do is leave a comment saying that you're interested and you'll be entered. I'll draw the winning name on Monday evening. If you don't want to wait to see if you're the winner, then hop on over to Amazon and get a copy pronto!
I hope everyone has a great weekend - does anyone have any fun plans? Lindsay and I are going to our downtown's "First Friday" with some friends. The first Friday of each month all of the downtown stores stay open later and there are hot chocolate and spiced cider stations downtown, fire barrels where you can roast marshmallows if you want and this month there will be carolers singing. We're going to eat at a hole in the wall diner downtown called The Hamburger Inn. It's been around forever and does it ever have character - and the best cheeseburgers ever! I'm hoping to get my Christmas decorations out on Saturday and then my office is having it's Christmas dinner in the evening. It's looking like another busy weekend!
Laurie

TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT - and a chance to win!

Donna Kauffman, Jill Shalvis, and HelenKay Dimon, three of the most recognized names in women's fiction, have joined together in a fun holiday anthology, TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT. I have read pretty much everything these talented women have written and trust me, they know how to do romance right - gorgeous, manly men, the sexy, intelligent women they can't live without, humor and sensuality - it all adds up to excellent reading entertainment if you ask me.

I was very fortunate to get a copy of this gorgeous book from HelenKay for review - together with an extra copy for giveaway - try and tell me you're not excited!! The cover shouts Christmas, doesn't it? The red door on the cover looks exactly like the front door on the house where I grew up, which makes it extra special! I always loved that bright red door. I've written a review - try to read it all the way through before going to the contest info, ok? Just kidding, I'd probably rather skip to the good stuff too!

My review:
TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT Donna Kauffman
Emma Lafferty agrees to house sit and pet sit for an eccentric billionaire over the holidays, knowing the pay and references it would generate would be a hefty boost to her new pet sitting business. When she arrives at his country home in the middle of an ice storm, the last thing she expects to find is the gorgeous great-grandson of the CEO, and although she doesn't quite believe the story he's telling about why he's there, she finds his charm irresistible.
Trevor Hamilton knew his great-uncle was going out of the country for two weeks and was certain he could pay off whoever had been hired to pet sit so he could search the mansion for clues to a family secret - a secret that has eaten at him for several years. It immediately becomes clear that Emma isn't budging. It isn't long before Trevor is totally captivated by Emma and he finds himself questioning the importance of the supposed family secret in comparison to his desire to build a relationship with Emma.
Emma and Trevor are absolutely charming together, despite a slightly rocky start. The sparks fly immediately, although they're a little hesitant to trust each other. Trevor's questions and doubts about his place in his family is heartening, as is Emma's gentle persuasion for him to do whatever is necessary to ease his mind and allow him to find the peace he has desperately wanted for several years.
FINDING MR. RIGHT Jill Shalvis
Maggie Bell is a chemistry genius, working extremely long days on what she hopes is the next medical miracle. Maggie seems to be a Mr. Wrong magnet - finding him time and time again. When she decides to just go ahead and find Mr. Wrong right off the bat, who better than her high school crush, Jacob Wheeler, a contractor who is working in her building. The trouble is, once the two start spending time together, Jacob is beginning to look more and more like Mr. Right.
Seeing Maggie for the first time since high school, Jacob is incredulous that he's never noticed how beautiful she is. When he learns that she's decided to "use" him as her Mr. Wrong, he decides to make the most of it and convince her that he wants more than a temporary fling, encouraging her to use her lab for more than test slides.
Jill Shalvis has done a great job with this reunion story. Past familiarity spares Maggie and Jacob time in the "getting to know you" stage and despite their differences in profession, they find that there's a definite attraction that both are eager to investigate and research. Add a little intrigue and danger and Maggie and Jacob's story is especially interesting.
CAN YOU HAND ME THE TAPE? HelenKay Dimon
Natalie Pritchard breaks her engagement to a sleazy, self-centered jerk only to discover that he's unknowingly in possession of a naughty tape she made for him in an effort to boost her self-confidence. She decides the only person she can go to for help is her ex's law partner, Spencer Donovan. To say that Natalie and Spencer don't see eye to eye is an understatement and it takes tremendous courage for her to even talk to him about the tape. Somewhere in the course of their meetings to discuss strategy, the two share their secrets and feelings and soon begin to see each other in a totally different light.
Spencer Donovan would be the first to admit that he had never really noticed Natalie before. As the fiancee of his law partner she was off-limits so he had no reason to check her out as a woman. Now that she's no longer taken and has requested his help, he has checked her out - and plans to continue checking her out. Because Natlie's self-esteem is nearly broken, Spence knows that a soft-touch is needed. He's counting on gentle attentions and the success of a grand gesture to prove to Natalie that she's the perfect woman for him, just the way she is.
HelenKay Dimon has written Natalie with vulnerabilities that are shared by so many women. Spencer sees these vulnerabilities immediately and rather than act on them for his own benefit, he's determined to make Natalie see how very beautiful and special she is. Talk about dreamy! It was a pleasure to see these two gradually move from verbal sparring to passionate whispering!

I give this book the highest of recommendations - everyone should have it on top of their stack of holiday reads!
Now for the contest. Please post a comment about holiday romances - do you like them? Love them? Are they just so-so for you? Do you have a favorite? I wrote an article at Romancing the Blog once that discussed holiday romances and the responses were very interesting. The general consensus seemed to be (and I heartily agree) that they are most enjoyable in the fall/winter before the holidays. There were a few who read them year-round, which reminds me of my mother who watches taped Christmas movies all year. If you send a friend who mentions your name, I'll put your name in the draw an extra time for each friend doing the mentioning. I'll draw a name on Sunday evening, the 28th. Good luck, everyone!
TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT is available on shelves now, or if you prefer ordering from the comfort of home, here's an Amazon link.

Thanks to all who stop by and huge, extra special thanks to HelenKay for offering up a copy for one lucky reader!

Laurie

A review (and contest) for Jill Shalvis's FLASHPOINT

I was fortunate enough to get one of the latest releases from Jill Shalvis - FLASHPOINT - for Romance Junkies review. I've shown the split bookcover photo again because while my review is for FLASHPOINT, I have a copy of FLASHBACK, the second book in this series, very generously donated by Jill for a giveaway! Thanks, Jill!
I'm fairly certain that neither of these books will be found on bookstore shelves by now, but they are still available at your favorite online bookseller, so be sure and check them out if you missed them when they were first released.
My (4 blue ribbon) review:
In FLASHPOINT, the first in Jill Shalvis’s latest firefighter series, readers are guaranteed one hot hunk of a hero. Add a sexy little EMT and you’ve got a romance worthy of at least five alarms!

Brooke O’Brian has spent her entire life on the move, having been raised by a free spirit of a mother. When she inherits her grandmother’s house in California, she decides to take a temporary EMT job while preparing the house for sale. The first person she encounters when she arrives for work is firefighter Zach Thomas, and the sparks begin to fly almost immediately. Regardless of the chemistry between them and knowing that Zach might be interested in more than just a quick fling, Brooke knows that her time in Santa Rey is limited and there’s no room in her life for a lasting relationship.
Zach Thomas has dedicated his life to firefighting, having lost his parents in a fire. While his job and his friends have always been enough for him, he finds himself restless for something, or maybe someone, to round out his life. When he meets Brooke, the attraction is instantaneous and it is definitely undeniable. Zach understands that Brooke has always been content to live in a constant state of motion and total independence, but he’s hopeful that he can convince her to consider a serious, long-term relationship with him.
Jill Shalvis never fails to deliver characters and settings that are believable and realistic; Zach and Brooke are no exception. They both have painful pasts that are reflected in the adults they have become. Both are insecure as to what they have to offer in a lasting relationship so they’ve simply avoided becoming involved. Now that they’ve met each other, it looks like they may have to rethink their plans for the future. I highly recommend this book for all contemporary romance readers.

The giveaway will be simple - post a comment here and you'll be entered. Chatter about these books or any of Jill's other books, previous or upcoming, is welcome and encouraged! Send a friend and have them mention you and your name will go in an extra time for each mention. I'll draw a name on Monday, September 14, when a new review and contest will be posted. Please pop back then and say hello to LuAnn McLane!
Because I've had recent issues with readers not checking back to see if they're winners - a reminder - it is up to you to check back to see if you're a winner within the required number of days. Otherwise, a new name will be drawn. If you've ever missed out on a contest win here because you didn't check back in time - please, please, please don't let that stop you from entering another contest, ok? Trust me, I think we've all done this at one time or another and it is not a big deal. Also, US/Canada addresses only, please.
Thanks!
Laurie

Jill Shalvis's firemen - you can get them here!

Jill Shalvis has two Harlequin Blazes available - FLASHPOINT most likely isn't on shelves any longer, but is available for purchase at online booksellers. FLASHBACK is currently available in stores and online.
Both are great reads with plenty of Jill's humor, steamy passions and a touch of suspense and danger. I'm giving away the pair to one person here. All you have to do is post a comment and you're entered. Feel free to chat about Jill's books - do you have a favorite book? Maybe a favorite character, locale or scene?
I'll draw a name in the evening on August 5 (US/Canada addresses only, please) - if you send a friend over and they mention your name, I'll throw your name in an extra time for each friend doing the mentioning. If the winner already has one of these books and would like to decline that one in favor of another person winning it, that's just fine - I'll happily draw another name for that book.
It's almost Friday!!
Laurie

TO BED A BEAUTY - by Nicole Jordan

Nicole Jordan is without a doubt one of the most-loved mistresses of historical romance. I've read and loved her books for years - sighing countless times as her heroes stole my breath away. This is the first time I've had the privilege of doing an official review for one of Ms. Jordan's books and I'm pleased to give you my Romance Junkies review of TO BED A BEAUTY.

A blurb:
Clever and charming Roslyn Loring, the middle child of three beautiful, independent sisters, knows that true happiness lies in a marriage of the heart – and she has hers set on a love-match with a neighboring earl. Yet her sharp mind has observed an undeniable truth: Gentlemen lavish passion on their mistresses, not their wives. Roslyn realizes that to win her future husband's devotion, she must learn the secrets of kindling a gentleman's ardor. Fortunately, she finds a willing tutor in Drew Moncrief, the Duke of Arden, a notorious rake whispered to be London's most magnificent lover. If his searing kisses are any indication, the duke is the ideal man to teach Roslyn how to be the perfect mistress.Drew begins schooling Roslyn while coolly guarding his heart. But as best-laid plans are thwarted by unexpected events – including a night of unforgettable passion – Roslyn and her wickedly arousing tutor discover how easily lessons in pleasure can become lessons in love....

My review:
When an independent beauty asks for lessons in love from a rake who is notorious for his extraordinary lovemaking skills, a tale of sensually blistering passion and unexpected emotion is guaranteed to follow.

Having seen her parents destroy themselves in a loveless marriage, Roslyn Loring is determined to marry for nothing less than true love. She attends a Cyprian’s masked ball in an attempt to find out what makes a man fall for a woman. It’s there that she meets Drew Moncrief, the Duke of Arden, who is on the prowl for a mistress. Roslyn successfully evades him for a short time, but doesn’t escape him altogether until after the two have shared a briefly passionate encounter. When Roslyn is confronted by Drew at her sister’s wedding to his best friend, she has no choice but to admit to the suspicious Drew the true reason behind her attendance at the ball. When she goes so far as to ask him for lessons in seduction so she can seduce her handsome neighbor into proposing, Drew cannot refuse.

When Drew sees the familiar face of Roslyn Loring at his friend’s wedding, it doesn’t take long before he places her as the young woman he met at the ball. He threatens to expose her to her family if she doesn’t tell him the truth behind her risqué behavior. Once he gets past the initial shock of Miss Loring’s request to teach her the ways of seduction, he finds he cannot refuse her. When those lessons go beyond simple instruction and the two become intimate, Drew can no longer bear the thought of continuing to prime Roslyn for another man. He wants her for himself, but convincing Roslyn that he is ready to put his rakish ways behind him won’t be easy. It appears that Drew may well have a lesson or two to learn from his delicately beautiful pupil.

TO BED A BEAUTY is the second in a three-book “Courtship Wars” series by Nicole Jordan. I read this book before reading the first book and enjoyed it very much as a stand-alone novel. I didn’t feel as any details were missed by my not having read the first book. Roslyn is an independent, highly intelligent woman who is determined to marry on her own terms rather than those set out by society. Her strong feelings after the heartache and pain she and her sisters experienced at the hands of their parents are excellently written. Drew is a rake, a real ladies’ man who is determined to never marry. Having been raised by a coldhearted mother he has his own reasons to avoid shackling himself to a woman. Watching these two fall for each other, incredulous at the deep emotions the other has stirred, was highly enjoyable. Secondary characters and events serve to enrich this wonderful story without detracting from Roslyn and Drew. Ms. Jordan is undoubtedly one of the masters of historical romance and I highly recommend this book as well as any of her previous work. I did go back and read the first book in this series, TO PLEASURE A LADY, and equally enjoyed it, but haven’t yet read the third book, TO SEDUCE A BRIDE. If you enjoy fine historical romance, I hope you won’t miss this latest series from Nicole Jordan.
You can also find Nicole at The Goddess Blogs - there's always something fun going on over there, so be sure to check it out!

Thanks for stopping! I hope everyone is having a great holiday weekend!

Laurie

SUPERB AND SEXY, the latest from Jill Shalvis - and a contest!!

Great news! Jill Shalvis has a new book releasing at the end of this month - SUPERB AND SEXY. Jill's readers have been impatiently waiting for this next installment in her "Sexy" series, and trust me, no one will be disappointed.
Here's a blurb from Jill's website:
When you want to fly the best, you fly Sky High Air. And when you want spectacular adventure and scorching seduction, Jill Shalvis’s tantalizing, talented pilots Noah, Shayne, and Brody will get you there-fast, slow, or any way you want it.
BUCKLE UP. IT’S GOING TO BE QUITE A RIDE.
Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated. And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High’s gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He’s tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it’s triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn’t even know he had.
For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Yeah, real smooth. She’s tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won’t let her walk away-especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that’s nothing compared to the way she’s about to get to know him-intimately, in depth, and over and over again.

My review:
When the three owners of the incredibly successful Sky High Air can't reach their concierge, Maddie, they become concerned and it's decided that Brody West should go to Maddie's home to check things out. Sparks have always flown between Brody and Maddie - so much so that one of the last times he saw her, Maddie plastered herself against him in a soul-stealing kiss. It was nothing short of incredible. Not so incredible was that she promptly ran out and ended up getting shot by a jealously unstable Sky High client; she's been on medical leave since then. When Maddie refuses to open her door to talk to him, Brody becomes suspicious that she's in some sort of trouble. After he meets her identical twin, Leena, and there's double the strange behavior, he's determined to get to the bottom of what has them so jumpy.
The next thing Brody knows he's on his way to a private island, posing as Maddie's husband (while Maddie poses as Leena), facing goons with more brawn than brains that work for the girls' criminal uncle. It isn't long before Brody realizes that the emotions he's experiencing while spending so much time with Maddie run much deeper than simple anger at the blackmailing uncle. Maddie can't deny that the things Brody makes her feel are very new to her, and more than just a little frightening. She and Leena haven't had the best of luck with guys and are wary, to say the least. But the way Brody jumps in to protect them, and the passion and emotion he has stirred in her, have given Maddie second thoughts . . .
Jill has once again served up a book that's full of fun, quirky characters who simply don't seem to understand that she knows what's best for them by putting them together. SUPERB AND SEXY has danger, desire and humor, and while it is a romance, it delves into the love and devotion of twin sisters as well. I highly recommend this book for all romance readers.
To celebrate the release of SUPERB AND SEXY, Jill is offering a prize to one reader here - a book from her backlist (subject to availability/limited to U.S./Canada addresses). All you have to do is post a reply - maybe share what you've enjoyed most about Jill's "Sexy" series, or any other book of hers that you've loved. Heck, you can even just say that you want to be entered, we're really not that picky! I'll draw a name next Friday, May 23rd. Send your friends over to enter too - if they mention your name I'll enter them and put your name in the hat an extra time for each friend.
Thanks for checking out Jill's book!

Laurie

STRONG AND SEXY (and a contest!) - the latest from Jill Shalvis

The winner of Jill's contest is CHERIE J.! Congratulations, Cherie! Please email me at ljodamron@gmail.com with your full name and mailing address, and three or so choices from Jill's backlist. Your book will come directly from Jill. If I don't hear from Cherie by Tuesday, I'll draw another name.

Thank you all for playing!

Jill Shalvis has a new release, STRONG AND SEXY, the second in her "Sexy" series! If you haven't visited Jill's blog, you should - every day brings new fun and adventure. For contest lovers, Jill also has frequent contests for her books.
Here's a little blurb about STRONG AND SEXY:
Strong and Sexy
Starring the wildly seductive heroes Noah, Shayne, and Brody, Jill Shalvis's exhilarating new series features a delectable concoction of sex appeal and adventure. Whether they're up in the air or between the sheets, these hot, hardy pilots know exactly where the action is!
BLOWING IT ALL SKY HIGH
In a family of serious over-achievers, Shayne Mahoney has always been the laid-back, easy-going rebel. But running Sky High Air's charter airline catering to the rich and famous is a dream come true, in-flight specials included. Like kissing his client's beautiful, brainy daughter in a coat closet. But before Shayne can say "Fasten Your Seatbelts," Dani claims to witness a murder, gets stalked in her own apartment, and as added bonus, gets them both shot at by a mystery sniper. Normally Shayne would be running from the obviously crazy woman, and yet he finds himself trying to help her, leaving him to doubt his own sanity!
There's a reason Dani never attends her mother's high society parties. The fake people, the shallow conversations and the fact that she doesn't fit in. She's a zoologist, not a starlet, and happy about it, even if she wishes men like ruggedly handsome Shayne Mahoney would spare her a second glance. Of course, dodging bullets isn't exactly what she'd call the perfect follow-up to their heated kiss, but Shayne makes it clear she can depend on him. All she has to do is hold on tight to his delicious hard body until the ride is over!
My review:
When Dani Peterson comes rushing into the private engagement party at Sky High Air, an adorable mess of a woman, Shayne Mahoney is instantly intrigued. Not only does she seem totally out of place among the guests gathered to celebrate the impending marriage of one of Sky Air’s most important clients, but she obviously doesn’t want to be there. Shayne soon learns that Dani is the daughter of the future bride being celebrated at this extravaganza; the very daughter who is rumored to be more than just a little crazy. What Shayne doesn’t know is that Dani’s arrival is just the beginning of a very wild night. After an uncomfortable confrontation with her mother, a heated kiss with Shayne in a closet of all places, Dani rushes out almost as quickly as she arrived, only to return, insisting that she just witnessed a shooting. Without a body or a victim, Shayne can’t help but doubt her. Soon after, when Dani is certain that someone has been in her apartment, and then the two are shot at, Shayne no longer questions Dani’s sanity and is determined to keep her safe.
Dani works as a zookeeper and is content to live without the trappings of high society and wealth. She is doubtful of Shayne’s interest in her, seeing how she’s the polar opposite of the women he usually dates. Shayne is more than a little surprised at the attraction himself. He finds Dani irresistible; without a doubt the sweetest, most genuine woman he has ever known.
Shayne is excellently written as the typical ladies’ man, but he’s also conscientious and caring. His patience with Dani, even when questioning her clarity on what is going on, is heartwarming. Dani is a breath of fresh air, incredibly bright and self-sufficient, but without an inflated opinion of herself. The pain she feels because of her family’s misunderstanding of who she is has been especially well written.
I feel certain that everyone who enjoys contemporary romance with touches of comedy, sensuality and mystery will love STRONG AND SEXY. Jill Shalvis never fails to entertain, always providing her readers with intelligent characters and fresh, creative storylines. I have no hesitation in giving this book the highest of recommendations.
Here's a quick link to Amazon - you're just one click away from owning a great book! I can't think of a better book to snuggle up with under the covers on these cold winter nights!
Now for even more fun! Jill is generously offering a book from her backlist to one lucky person! I'll draw a name from everyone who posts here between now and Saturday evening (U.S. addresses only, please). You know the drill with my contests - you post a comment and you're entered. Send a friend who mentions your name and not only will they be entered, but you'll be entered an extra time for each friend! So get out there and spread the word!
Thanks for checking it out, and thank you, Jill, for sending me the book as well as for the contest - you're the best!
Laurie

SHADOW HAWK by Jill Shalvis

The most recent release from Jill Shalvis http://jillshalvis.com/ is a Blaze titled SHADOW HAWK. I imagine the first thing anyone will notice about this book is the gorgeous guy on the cover, but the story inside the cover is pleasingly beefy too!
This is my Romance Junkies review of SHADOW HAWK:
Take one strongly capable male and one fiercely independent but completely feminine female, add some bad guys, suspense and intrigue, and then top it all off with smoldering sensuality and you’ve got the makings of SHADOW HAWK, the latest Blaze offering from the talented Jill Shalvis.
When a mission to recover over 300 rifles stolen from ATF storage goes to pieces while agent Abby Wells listens from a mobile communication center, she can’t help but rush out into the action to see if she’s needed. Abby was formerly active in the field herself, until an earlier mission went wrong and left her emotionally scarred. Someone within the agency is assisting the criminals, and as soon as Conner Hawk grabs her and forces her to go on the run with him, Abby thinks that he is the rogue agent and she is determined to escape him. When Hawk tells her that he suspects their director is involved, Abby is disbelieving, as the man who has raised Hawk’s suspicions is the very man who rescued her several months before. Almost as quickly as Abby is convinced that Hawk’s suspicions are true, the two have an incredibly passionate encounter that leaves both of them a little confused, yet wanting much more.
Hawk realizes that he has deeply frightened Abby by kidnapping her and that he’s asking a lot in wanting her to believe him. He realizes that Abby’s life is also in danger and that the race is on to find the true bad guy while fighting to keep them both alive. Hawk has always been attracted to Abby, but never dreamed that the two of them would actually get together. Hawk now needs to get Abby to drop her defenses so she can open herself up and accept his feelings for her.
Jill Shalvis has penned a fast-moving romantic suspense with intriguing lead characters that readers will quickly become attached to. Secondary characters are equally important and a sensual side romance is an added bonus. SHADOW HAWK is a bit of a change from the humorous, quirky characters that Jill Shalvis often gives her readers. Abby and Hawk aren’t the light and fluffy characters you might associate with a Blaze. Each is dealing with serious issues; current dangers for Hawk and indescribable horrors in Abby’s past, give this book the bones of an excellent suspense.
I keep telling people that if you haven't read a Blaze in a while, you should definitely pick one up. Oh sure, there are still the occasional bits of fluff that are (in my opinion) a little ridiculous in their reasons for the characters getting together, but the majority are satisfying reads. I especially appreciate that they are typically quick reads and easy to squeeze in for a little break from "heavier" reading.
Jill has a fun blog that you should be sure to check out every day - my first stop online every morning is Jill's blog; it's always a fun way to start the day!
Here's the Amazon link for Shadow Hawk -http://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Hawk-Harlequin-Blaze-Shalvis/dp/0373793332/ref=sr_1_2/103-2381367-0694212?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1181522809&sr=1-2 - click it to go get your own copy!
Thanks for checking out my review, and thank you again, Jill, for requesting me to do this review!
Laurie
xo

SMART AND SEXY by Jill Shalvis

Another great book from another one of my favorite authors! I enjoy Jill Shalvis immensely and always look forward to each and every one of her releases. SMART AND SEXY is lighthearted romantic suspense, with familiar characters that readers can't seem to get enough of, and I'm certain that Noah and Bailey will be loved by everyone who reads their story.

Take a minute to visit Jill's blog, I guarantee it's good for a smile! http://jillshalvis.com/ I start just about every day online with a stop there! Be sure to check out her backlist while you're there, there's not a bad book to be found!

Six months after piloting a plane that crashed in Cabo with horrific results, Noah Fisher decides to head to Mammoth Mountain for a little R and R. He figures some skiing and a ski bunny will go far in helping him relax. When Noah finds himself hijacked at gunpoint while enroute to Mammoth Mountain, it makes him just plain mad. Once he discovers that his hijacker is Bailey Sinclair, a young widow who has been the object of many of his wildest fantasies, he is still angry, but his anger is redirected toward whoever has terrified Bailey enough to push her to take such drastic measures. When Noah learns that Bailey’s husband, Alan, wasn’t killed in a hunting accident, but was murdered, he realizes how imperative it is that she find the money he had hidden in avoidance of becoming a victim herself. With Alan’s killers hot on their heels, the two make jaunt after desperate jaunt in search of the concealed cash. When it looks like they will have to travel to Cabo, the place where Noah crashed, he questions whether he has healed enough emotionally to take them there.
Bailey Sinclair wants to kill her husband. Unfortunately, someone has already killed him, after he swindled them out of a ton of money. Bailey gave up a successful modeling career after marrying Alan so she could be by his side. Unfortunately, he was more interested in himself and how much money he could make than being with her. Alan left Bailey with a cryptic clue about where the money is hidden just before he was murdered. She has little choice but to force someone to take her to Alan’s resort in order to find the money. She decides on Noah Fisher, one of the three pilots at Sky High Air, because she knew he was the most likely of the three to help her. Bailey has had a bit of a crush on Noah for some time, but has to get past that for the time being, and focus on finding the money that will save her life. After the initial flight, yes, the one where she kidnapped him at gunpoint, Bailey has no intention of involving Noah in her search. Besides, the “gun” was actually a pen, so no harm done, right? Noah doesn’t feel that way, and insists that he accompany her so he can keep her safe, and while Bailey dislikes involving him in her personal problems, she appreciates having him with her.
Bailey and Noah are both extremely likable characters, and the secondary characters from Sky High Air are equally charming and are practically screaming for their own books. Thankfully, Jill Shalvis will be giving her readers those stories. Noah and Bailey are quick to act on their shared attraction, but it doesn’t feel rushed as their long-time interest in each other is covered. This book has fast-paced action, intriguing suspense, and sizzling sensuality. I personally feel that Jill Shalvis’ writing gets sharper with each new book, and I highly recommend SMART AND SEXY to anyone who enjoys a romantic suspense that isn’t too heavy or frightening.

Thanks for stopping!

Laurie