Jackson Hole Valentine - Cindy Kirk (HSE #2169 - Feb 2012)

Series: Rx for Love (Book 5) 

When Margaret Fisher's friends were killed in a tragic accident, she suddenly found herself co-guardian of the couple's six-year-old son. Cole Lassiter was the last man she ever wanted to see again after he'd broken her heart in high school, but she'd do anything -- even move into his house -- to be a mother for Charlie.

Successful entrepreneur Cole still felt betrayed by Meg...and couldn't imagine sharing anything with her, let alone a son. But while adolescent wounds ran deep, so did their very grown-up attraction for one another. And as they learned to be good parents to Charlie, the mismatched pair were also learning about forgiveness -- and the power of forever love.

Good book.  I really liked the way that both Meg and Cole stepped up to take care of Charlie, even with the way they felt about each other.  Neither of them wanted to be around the other, but they put it aside for Charlie.  As they spent time together, it became obvious that they were still attracted.  They also learned to communicate with each other because of what they had to do for Charlie.  As they did so, more of their past issues came to light and were resolved.  There were a couple of surprises at the end that helped put everything to rest and made their HEA possible.

Her Cowboy Defender - Kerry Connor (HI #1334 - Feb 2012)

Series: Thriller 

From the moment he finds himself staring down the barrel of her gun, Rancher Cade McClain knows Piper Lowry isn't just another stranded tourist. Armed and desperate, she's prepared to do whatever it takes to carry out her mission. A mission she claims only he can help her with. Knowing it would be impossible to walk away from this tempting, determined woman, Cade offers her a place to hide from the gunmen on her trail. Despite his broad shoulders and intimidating gaze, it isn't long before the straight-shooting cowboy realizes he can't guarantee Piper's safety. Even if his heart is beginning to tell him he has no choice but to try....

Good book.  Piper was desperate when she held Cade up at gunpoint to get him to drive her to save her sister. When they were attacked, he saved her, and then offered to help her.  I liked her determination and her creativity.  She did a good job of planning things.  Cade couldn't believe he had offered to help her, but he couldn't seem to stop himself.  He had issues in his past that should have stopped him, but didn't.  I liked the way they worked together.  I thought it was interesting when they actually went their separate ways, then finally gave in to their need to see each other.  Loved that concluding chapter.

Power of the Raven - Aimee Thurlo (HI #1333 - Feb 2012)

Series: Copper Canyon (Book 2) 

Gene Redhouse believes in signs. But when Lori Baker literally jumps into his life, the Navajo wisdom he's learned disappears. Lori is being stalked and she's never been so frightened, or so alone. Although it seems they belong to different worlds, the connection between them is instant and intense. And if he can keep her alive long enough, he vows to explore every inch of her....

With his chiseled features and powerful build, Gene is the safe harbor in Lori's stormy sea. And yet with her past weighing her down, Lori must decide which is more dangerous: the stranger trailing her every step, or the one daring her to trust him.

Really good book.  I loved Lori and the way she could think on her feet.  When she asked Gene for his help, she had no idea just how much help she would be getting.  She was wary of getting involved emotionally, but Gene was there for everything she needed.  On his side, Gene wasn't ready for a relationship - he had too much he felt he needed to accomplish on his ranch first.  I liked the fact that Gene was comfortable with his Navajo heritage, and had no problems sharing that heritage with Lori.  I also liked the way that she was so interested in his beliefs.  As they got nearer to the resolution of her stalker, I really enjoyed the way they shared their lives.  I've been enjoyed the bits and pieces of Navajo culture I am learning also.  I also like seeing all the brothers, and learning about bits of their lives.  I'm looking forward to the next book -- soon, I hope!

The Pretender - Kathleen Creighton (HRS #1693 - Feb 2012)

Series: Scandals of Sierra Malone (Book 2) 

Struggling actress Abigail Lindgren feels it's her duty to notify her roommate's family of Sunny's murder. Problem is, a tangled web including lies, a reclusive grandfather and an inheritance makes things more than complicated. Impersonating Sunny in the mountains of California -- just for a while -- is part of the plan. Getting tangled up with sexy rancher Sage Rivera is not.

Sage stands to lose it all. He doesn't need an attachment to Sunny or her well-kept secrets. He can't shake the feeling she's hiding something big. But she needs a protector, a friend, a lover to give her the passion she's been missing...and he decides he's the only man for the job.

"Oh what a tangled web we weave..."  Abby didn't feel right telling Sunny's family over the phone about her murder, so she went to California.  But she went pretending to be Sunny, expecting to be able to tell Sam right away -- but he wasn't there.  So she was stuck pretending to be Sunny, while wishing that Sunny's family was her own.  I loved the way that she was so comfortable on the ranch, and willing to try new things, even when they made her nervous.  I really liked Sage.  Besides being a really good-looking man, he was flat out nice.  He took care of Abby, teaching her things about the ranch, helping with her cat.  He was also very attracted to her, but refused to do anything about it until he could talk to Sam (who was still hiding out).  When his mother dropped her bombshell on him, he was afraid his love for Abby was doomed.  I really liked the ending, and the way it all worked out.  I sure hope the next book comes out quicker than this one did.

Cowboy in the Extreme - Rita Herron (HI #1329 - Feb 2012)

Series: Bucking Bronc Lodge (Book 2) 

"There's an intruder in my cabin!"

The moment he heard Kim Long's terrified voice on the phone, Brandon Woodstock knew he had to help her and her little girl. Once, he'd promised to love and protect Kim forever. Now, in spite of the secrets that had come between them, the Texas rancher intended to keep that promise. But rescuing Kim riled all the wrong people -- and rekindled the attraction he'd thought ended with their broken relationship. Honoring his role as Kim's fiercest protector, he whisked her and her daughter to safety without considering the consequences. With a target on Kim's back and old wounds reopened, Brandon thought there'd be no more surprises. He'd never been more wrong.

Excellent book.  I liked Kim a lot.  She was an excellent mother to Lucy, and had started working at the ranch to help troubled teens.  When someone attacked her and her daughter, she was forced to call on Brandon for help.  Years ago they had split when he decided to marry another woman, breaking her heart.  She never told him that he was Lucy's father.  When someone succeeds in kidnapping Lucy and holding her for ransom, they have to work together to save her.  And they also have to revisit the past and deal with their old hurts.  I really liked Brandon's desire to protect Kim and Lucy, even before he knew Lucy was his. I kept reading as fast as I could at the end so I could see how it turned out. I'm also looking forward to Carter's story.

Cassie's Grand Plan - Emmie Dark (HS #1769 - Mar 2012)

Cassie Hartman knows what she needs to do to get her life under control. First, she'll get herself promoted. Then she'll update her appearance. Steps three and four—marriage and family—well, those will have to wait.

Then Ronan McGuire shows up. The too-sexy, too-polished business consultant has the power to derail Cassie's plans before she's even really started. If he doesn't approve her promotion, she'll be back to square one—and that's not an option. Cassie needs to keep her focus on that first step, no matter how much Ronan tempts her to skip ahead to the third and fourth ones….

Excellent book.  I really liked Cassie and the fact that she had a plan for her life.  She knew what she wanted and how to go after it.  Her biggest problem was most likely that she was a workaholic.  Ronan's arrival has created some trouble for her.  She knows he's there to evaluate her work - she thinks for her promotion.  He knows why he's there, and that isn't it.  From the beginning they are attracted to each other, but each knows it's a bad idea to act on it.  Ronan has been unhappy with his job for awhile, but this last assignment may be the straw that breaks him.  Cassie has used her job and her plan to protect herself from pain and loss, but this time it may not be enough.  I really liked the characters in this book - except I think Cassie's boss was a sniveling coward for the way he acted at the end.  I'm looking forward to more books from this author. 

A Forbidden Affair - Yvonne Lindsay (HD #2147 - Mar 2012)

Series: Master Vintners (Book 2) 

Nate Jackson finds it almost too easy to seduce his enemy's daughter. And after their white-hot weekend, he issues an ultimatum—Nicole Wilson will work for him or her family will learn of their affair.

Nicole has little choice. Yet even as she bows to her lover's demands, she sees the hope for redemption in Nate's eyes. Can his reasons be justified? And does she dare trust a man planning to destroy all she holds dear?

This was a good book, better than I thought it would be at the beginning.   When Nicole stormed out of her father's house, all she wanted to do was get away.  After working for years to do the best she could do for her father's company, he had turned it all over to her estranged brother, without even telling her what he was going to do.  So she met up with friends at a club and started dancing, where she came to Nate's attention.  He was immediately drawn to her, as she was to him.  When he realized who she was, he thought he had found a perfect mode of revenge.  She couldn't believe what he was doing, but felt she had no choice.  While working for him though, she found that she was treated better and more respected than she had been by her father.  I really liked the way that Nate gave her the opportunities that he did, and let her run with them.  I also liked the way that Nicole got under his skin and made him think about what he was doing.  I loved seeing how things came together at the end, and how Nate finally came to see what he had almost lost.

The Vineyard of Hopes and Dreams - Kathleen O'Brien (HS #1766 - Mar 2012)

Series: Together Again 

As a reckless teenager, Colby Malone made a catastrophic mistake. One he's regretted every day since. So when Hayley Watson—the woman he's never forgotten—returns to sell her family's vineyard, he seizes the opportunity to make amends.

But she's not making this easy for him. Hayley wants nothing to do with him or Sonoma, California. And the intense attraction between them? Yeah, she's ready to ignore that, too. Colby must convince her to take a chance on him…on them. And what better place to do that than the land that sparked all their dreams of a future together?

Very good book.  Colby was very glad to see Hayley return to Sonoma.  He had tried to find her once before, but was unable to.  He knew he had been in the wrong, and he really wanted to have a chance to make things right between them.  Hayley came back intent on selling the vineyard and going back to Florida.  She had no intention of opening herself up to the possibility of more pain.  Exposure to Colby over the time it took to sell the vineyard to his family made her realize that she had never stopped loving him.  I really liked the way he was determined not to give up on them this time.  I enjoyed seeing the members of the Malone family again.  I still love Grandma -- she really knows how to keep everyone in line.

Back in the Soldier's Arms - Soraya Lane (HR #4301 - Mar 2012)

Series: Heroes Come Home (Book 3) 

To the outside world, Daniel and Penny Cartwright have it all—a lovely home, a beautiful daughter, successful military careers and a rock-solid marriage. But when Daniel makes a reckless mistake, the foundations of their marriage are shaken. Now he's got to act fast to keep hold of his precious wife.

Daniel launches a campaign to win Penny back: he has just a week to do whatever it takes to make her fall in love with him all over again.

This was a different kind of story.  I really wasn't sure at first if I was going to like it.  I was firmly on Penny's side -- I don't know that I would forgive him either.  But the more I read of the book, the more I came to believe that their marriage could be saved.  They obviously did love each other and their daughter.  I could see that Daniel deeply regretted what he had done and would do anything to save them.  I could also see and understand Penny's reluctance to trust him.   I liked the way they finally began to really communicate, as that was the only way they would be able to move forward.

From Father to Son - Janice Kay Johnson (HS #1764 - Mar 2012)

Series: A Brother's Word (Book 2) 

Is an independent cop the best family man?

Niall MacLachlan's one priority is the law. He fought his way from the wrong side of the tracks to earn his badge and won't jeopardize it for anything. After all, trusting his family nearly cost him everything as a kid. So, no. This loner has no desire for a wife and children to call his own.

So why is his entirely too attractive landlady, Rowan Staley, slipping past all his defenses? She and her young family—complete with noisy dog—are everything Niall thinks he doesn't want. But he can't keep his distance when she turns to him for protection from a neighborhood threat. And in the end, letting her go might be impossible. 

An excellent book.  I really liked Niall when I met him in Duncan's book.  I could tell he was a good man, but like his brother, didn't know how to love or be loved.  I loved the way he was with Rowan's two kids -- he was great at taking care of them, playing with them, protecting them.  He just didn't know how to deal with his feelings for them and for Rowan.  Every time he would get closer, he would get scared and back off.  Rowan's marriage had not been very good.  Physical intimacy with her husband was not all that it should have been, and she didn't know if what she read about in books was even possible.  I loved the way Niall and Duncan got closer, and the way Duncan helped him understand his feelings.  I am really looking forward to the third book and seeing how that one turns out.

Sudden Attraction - Rebecca York (HI #1332 - Feb 2012)

Series: Mindbenders (Book 2) 

They were never supposed to meet. Hidden on a New Orleans plantation were secrets Gabriella Bodreaux was never supposed to uncover, either. And after Luke Buckley saved her life, she couldn't get him out of her head...and she couldn't get out of his.

At the slightest touch, they established the most intimate connection of their lives. So vulnerable, so dangerous...so right. Now they knew everything about each other -- almost.

He came with a secret identity, but wasn't the type of man who would run away from trouble. He could keep her safe. But when being together meant exposing themselves to more danger than either could prepare for, they had to reconsider just how "chance" their meeting really was....

Good book.  I enjoyed the mind connections between Gabriella and Luke.  They were both stunned by what happened when they touched for the first time.  Not just the exchange of memories, but also the intense attraction.   I really liked the feel of inevitability of their meeting, and the way they immediately decided they needed to stay together to keep each other safe.  I enjoyed seeing Jake and Rachel again, especially at the end of the book. 

Cowboy to the Rescue - Trish Milburn (HAR #1396 - Mar 2012)

Series: Teagues of Texas (Book 2) 

Ryan Teague was always a bit of a loner. Before his traumatic tour in Iraq, keeping to himself was a choice; now, well, it's a necessity. Ryan feels he's too damaged, too scarred to be around the people he loves most. And a relationship? Out of the question. What woman wants a broken man?

All that changes when Ryan meets the new ranch chef. Gorgeous, funny and a helluva cook, Brooke Vincent charms everyone at Vista Hills, especially Ryan. He recognizes something else in Brooke, too -- behind that warm, easygoing demeanor, Brooke is hiding some scars of her own. Suddenly, all Ryan can think about is making sure no one hurts her again.

Brooke and Ryan help each other begin to heal. But just as their trust grows into something more, Brooke's past threatens to ruin it all.…

Excellent story.  Brooke's arrival at the ranch was perfect for her.  She loved to cook, and the place was isolated enough for her to feel safer than she had in a long time.  I loved the way she fit right in and developed good relationships with all the Teagues.  She also immediately drew the attention of Ryan Teague.  Ryan had become a loner, not spending much time around people because of his feeling of guilt from his time in Iraq.  As the two spend time together, they find that their emotional wounds are healing.  I loved the way that Brooke was able to get Ryan to open up and talk, just by being there and able to listen.  The confrontation with her ex-boyfriend was good, and the conclusion of the story was fun.

The Best Bride - Susan Mallery (SSE #933 - Jan 1995)

Series: Hometown Heartbreakers (Book 1) 

With his sexy Stetson and X-rated grin, was Sheriff Travis Haynes Glenwood's leading lady-killer or Elizabeth Abbot and her daughter's knight in shining armor? Finally pulling her life back together, Elizabeth couldn't afford more heartbreak. Still, Travis was awfully tempting...

With every fragment of her betrayed heart, Elizabeth longed to trust the legendary lawman - enough to become his bride and give her child a daddy. But would her shattering past forever hold her hostage...even from the love that could make her whole? 

An older book from Susan Mallery, and a fantastic read.  Elizabeth was trying to start over from a mistake that still held her in its grip.  The last thing she wanted to do was trust another charming, good looking guy.  But Travis seemed like a really nice man, who came to her rescue and was wonderful with her daughter.  Travis loved women, but felt that he was unable to have a lasting commitment with anyone.  His family was notorious for failed relationships.  He really wanted to have a wife and family, but didn't believe that it was possible for him.  Elizabeth nearly lost him because of her inability to trust her own judgment, and Travis nearly lost her because he forgot that it was possible to choose to be happy.

The Duke is Mine - Eloisa James (Avon - Dec 2011)

Series: Happily Ever Afters (Book 3) 

Destiny will be decided between the sheets in this all-new tale of “The Princess and the Pea.”

For Olivia Lytton, betrothal to the son of the Duke of Canterwick -- hardly a Prince Charming -- feels more like a curse than a happily-ever-after. At least his noble status will help her sister, Georgiana, secure an engagement with the brooding, handsome Tarquin, Duke of Sconce, a perfect match for her in every way . . . every way but one. Tarquin has fallen in love with Olivia.

Quin never puts passion before reason. And reason says that Georgiana is his ideal bride. But the sensual, fiery, strong-willed Olivia ignites an unknown longing in him -- a desire they are both powerless to resist. When a scandalous affair begins, they risk losing everything -- Olivia’s engagement, her sister’s friendship, and their own fragile love. Only one thing can save them -- and it awaits in the bedroom, where a magnificent mattress holds life-changing answers to the greatest romantic riddle of all. 

Good book.   Olivia's parents have brought her and her sister up with one goal - marriages to dukes.  Olivia has been betrothed to Rupert since she was a child.  He is a nice young man, younger than she is, and not the brightest of people.  But she is willing to go through with it.  She and her sister are invited to visit the home of the Duke of Sconce and his mother, with a chance that Georgiana would secure the interest of the Duke.  The difference between the two girls is amazing.  Georgiana is tall, thin and the "ideal" duchess.  Olivia is short, slightly plump, and much more earthy.  She likes to laugh, tell jokes and argue.  Quin's first marriage was not happy, and he swore he would not allow his emotions to rule him again.  But Georgiana does nothing for him, and Olivia appeals to him like no one ever has.  I really liked Olivia and the way she was herself and stood up to Quin's mother.  I also was very glad of the way she helped her sister go after what she wanted. 

Tempted Again - Cathie Linz (Berkley - Jan 2012)

Series: Librarian (Book 3) 

She'd been tempted before and this wickedly hot sheriff knows her weakness....

Marissa Bennett needs to start over, so she returns to her hometown of Hopeful, Ohio, and a new job at the library. After a painful divorce. she craves peace of mind and stability. Instead, the first thing she does is accidentally crash the Founders' Day Parade. To make matters worse, she has to deal with her menopausal mom, a sarcastic sister and a loony library board.

The last thing Marissa needs is a new man in her life. Enter sexy lawman Connor Doyle-the bad boy who took her virginity back in high school. She knows she should turn the pages on her past and get her life back on track, but Connor is irresistible. Has she come all the way home just to get her heart broken again?

Very good book.  Marissa had come back to Hopeful, looking for a new start.  She ended up seeing Connor right away, bringing back some unpleasant memories.  Connor didn't recognize her at first, but when he did he realized that he had been a butt-head and needed to apologize.  When they found out they needed to combine their programs for at-risk teens, neither one was happy that they had to work together.  Thanks to his previous undercover work in Chicago, Connor tended to be the hellfire and brimstone kind of guy, where Marissa was into softer guidance.  I really liked the teens and the things they did.  I also loved the way they were able to help Connor out at the end.  The biggest thing Connor and Marissa had to do was let go of their history and move on.  I also enjoyed Marissa's parents, and her solution to their arguing at the end of the book.

The Last Cahill Cowboy - Jenna Kernan (HH #1072 - Feb 2012)

Series: Cahill Cowboys (Book 5) 

Bounty hunter Chance Cahill blows into town like tumbleweed, a rootless drifter with danger written all over him. For this man doesn't care whether he lives or dies. It's what makes him so fearless -- and so deadly.

Ellie Jenkins, plain as brown paper, is determined to marry for love. It's only when she comes face-to-face with childhood friend Chance that she realizes what she's been waiting for.

But then Ellie sees the empty look behind his eyes, and she knows that to win this cowboy's heart will take a risk so big it may destroy them both....

Great conclusion to the series.  Chance is the last of the siblings to come back to help find their parents' murderer.  When he left, his best skill was his shooting, so he became a bounty hunter.  He felt that his parents' deaths were his fault, and saw no hope for a good life for himself.  When he returned, one of the first people he saw was Ellie, his sister's best friend.  He was stunned by the changes he saw, and the attraction he felt.  He also knew that she was far too good for him.  Ellie was glad that Chance had returned, but worried about the changes she saw in him.  She could see that he didn't care about his own life.  She also realized that she had been in love with him for most of her life.  She had been sheltered for all her life, and her domineering mother couldn't see Ellie's true nature.  I really enjoyed seeing Ellie as she began to find her backbone and go after what she wanted.  I liked seeing the interaction among Chance and his siblings, and his confusion over their new relationships.  The final scenes of the book were great, with the bad guy finally getting what was coming to him.  And I loved the epilogue, with Bowie and Merritt's wedding!

Mardie and the City Surgeon - Marion Lennox (HR #4288 - Jan 2012)

Series: Banksia Bay (Book 4) 

The last person Mardie Rainey expects to see on her doorstep is her childhood sweetheart, Blake Maddock. Fifteen years ago, Blake Maddock had walked away, leaving her teenage heart sore and broken. But now -- with a thunderstorm raging overhead -- she can't turn him away, nor the injured border collie in his arms....

Blake Maddock spent his life running from one tragic mistake... Now the frightened boy has become a formidable man -- and he's coming back for the woman he has never forgotten....

Good book, pretty intense in places.  When Blake came back to Banksia Bay for a class reunion he was hoping for a chance to see Mardie again, but wasn't sure if he should.  When he had left for college, he never looked back.  He had some good memories, but was also running from the tragedy in his childhood, always feeling that he had to make up for it.  When he did show up on her doorstep, with a blind dog, he wasn't sure what to do.  Blake was the last person Mardie expected to see.  I got very frustrated with him, because he kept saying really stupid things, making him appear condescending about her life as compared to his.  Every time he'd end up looking like an idiot, but he never seemed to learn.  Mardie tried to protect her heart, since she had been devastated when he left.  She did move on, marrying then losing her husband, but living a full life doing things she loved.  She wanted to help Blake, but he just wouldn't let go of his past.  I did like the way things worked out at the end.  The funeral scene at the end was incredibly moving.

The Lost Girls of Johnson's Bayou - Jana DeLeon (HI #1331 - Feb 2012)

She was only six when she walked out of the swamp after the LeBlanc School for Girls caught on fire. Sixteen years after the terrifying night that stole her memory, a child's scream lures Ginny back into the woods...where a strong arm encircles her. The gun-wielding stranger is Paul Stanton, a cop-turned-P.I., who's come to Johnson's Bayou looking for answers of his own.

Paul has spent almost two decades searching for his missing sister and now, this Southern beauty could be the key to his quest. But someone would rather see Ginny dead than have her memories resurface. And although uncovering the dark secrets of the past could put them both at risk, it's a chance Paul's willing to take if it means finding his future...with Ginny.

Good book, pretty creepy.  Ginny's memory loss has never improved - until recently.  She decided to do something about it, by going back to the school to see if she could remember anything.  When she runs into Paul, he saves her from discovery.  When he hears her story, and tells her his own, they realize that there is definitely something wrong.  And when someone starts attacking Ginny, Paul vows to keep her safe until they get to the bottom of the mystery.  I really liked the way they worked out the parts of the mystery.  The romance was good, and felt real to me.

Behind Boardroom Doors - Jennifer Lewis (HD #2144 - Mar 2012)

Series: Dynasties: The Kincaids (Book 3) 

Boss whisperer Brooke Nichols has never seen RJ Kincaid act like this. True, his mother is in jail for murdering his father, and an illegitimate brother has all but stolen the shipping dynasty RJ's worked so hard to safeguard. But that's no excuse for bad behavior. So, as a good assistant should, Brooke pulls him aside and pours him a drink. Resulting in a kiss…or two. If only she didn't have a secret that could tear the Kincaid family apart, maybe this fantasy could last forever. If only…

While this one was pretty good, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first two books in the series.  I had a hard time warming up to RJ.  I know his life sucks right now, but the constant anger was very draining to read.  I also thought he was pretty tacky in his pursuit of Brooke.  He didn't seem to care at all about her reputation if someone had seen them.  Brooke was ok, except for keeping her secret when she should have told it right away.  I'm beginning to suspect who the bad guy is here, and I'm looking forward to seeing if I am right.

On Lavender Lane - Joann Ross (Signet - Jan 2012)

Series: Shelter Bay (Book 3) 

Sometimes the second time is the charm. . .

After seeing enough of war, former Navy SEAL Lucas Chaffee is settling back into civilian life when he accepts a job refurbishing a farmhouse for an old friend, who plans to turn it into a culinary school.

Celebrity TV chef Madeline Durand was badly shaken when her husband's illicit video went viral, so she jumps at the chance to reevaluate her life in Shelter Bay while helping her grandmother turn the family farm into a new business. Little does she know that the man who broke her heart year ago is already on the job.

Having Maddy leave Shelter Bay once, Lucas isn't about to let her get away this time. But rekindling their romance won't be easy, as she still hasn't forgiven him for a fateful night ten years ago. But Lucas is a man on a mission, and with the help of some Shelter Bay matchmakers, he plans to come up with a very special recipe of passion, patience, and perseverance to win her over. . .

Another fantastic visit to Shelter Bay.  Lucas is a terrific character.  He is, of course, an alpha male, being a former Navy SEAL.  But he is also a basically nice, sensitive guy, though that came through learning some things the hard way.  He knows he isn't going to have an easy time of getting back into Maddy's good graces.  She has returned to Shelter Bay to recover from her marriage and try to get her life back on track.  She has spent the last several years repressing her goals and desires to support her husband's.  She doesn't start out planning to stay, but as she and Lucas settle their past, she is ready to look at the future.  I loved the way they started talking, trying to regain their friendship first, and discovering that they have even more in common now.  They also have the maturity to work through any remaining issues.  I loved the way they developed the restaurant plans.  I also enjoyed seeing the old characters, and meeting new ones, to see where future romances might come to be.  There were several scenes I loved, including the beach scene with the champagne and the morning after, and the cooking lesson at the women's shelter.

High Country Bride - Linda Lael Miller (Pocket - Dec 2002)

Series: McKettrick Cowboys (Book 1) 

One ranch. Three sons. Only one will inherit...and on one condition.

Tired of waiting for his sons to settle down, Arizona-territory rancher Angus McKettrick announces a competition: the first son to marry and produce a grandchild will inherit Triple M ranch. Now, three distinctly different, equally determined cowboys are searching high and low for brides.

If Emmeline Harding knows one thing, it's that she can't hold her liquor. And though she's not sure how she came to wake up next to a stack of gold coins in a brothel, she fears the worst. Fleeing town as a mail-order bride, she wonders: how will she ever confess her past to her handsome new husband?

Freedom-loving Rafe McKettrick is a man of strong beliefs and stronger passions and he'll do anything to win the Triple M -- even marry a stranger. To his surprise, Emmeline's charms beguile him even as the secrets he senses she's hiding ignite jealousy and suspicion. But when a visitor from the past enters the high country, the newlyweds have no choice but to give up on a marriage in name only and seek a union that satisfies them body and soul.

Excellent book.  This is the first in the McKettrick family books.  I love this family and all their passions and drama.  Rafe had no intention of settling down anytime soon, until his father laid down his ultimatum.  So he sent off for a mail order bride.  Emmeline had fled Kansas City, certain her reputation was in tatters.  When she arrived in Indian Rock, expecting to be met by her new husband, she found him brawling in a saloon.  One of her brothers-in-law took her out to the ranch, and Rafe showed up shortly after.  He could tell she had secrets, but didn't press her to tell them. He also discovered that she wasn't one to be ordered around.  As they spent time together, they first discovered passion, and then stronger feelings began to develop.  When the previously unknown half-brother appeared, tensions increased.  And when Emmeline finally told Rafe her secret, the explosion tore them apart.  It took nearly losing her for Rafe to realize his love.  Great series, and I loved all the side stories and undercurrents.

Until There Was You - Kristan Higgins (HQN - Nov 2011)

She's having serious prom-night deja vu...

Posey Osterhagen can't complain. She owns a successful architectural salvaging company, she's surrounded by her lovable, if off-center, family and she has a boyfriend -- sort of. Still, something's missing. Something tall, brooding and criminally good-looking... something like Liam Murphy.

When Posey was sixteen, the bad boy of Bellsford, New Hampshire, broke her heart. But now he's back, sending Posey's traitorous schoolgirl heart into overdrive once again. She should be giving him a wide berth, but it seems fate has other ideas....

Overall, a good book.  I admit it took me awhile to warm up to Liam.  He was so nasty to Posey when he first came back to town that it was hard to think he was going to win her in the end.  He was also so over-the-top overprotective of his daughter I wanted to smack him.  I really liked Posey.  She was a genuinely nice person who put up with a lot from her family.  I liked the way that she was so comfortable with her career choice, and the way she loved the items she salvaged.  The way that Liam was confused by his developing feelings for Posey was perfect - he deserved to wonder what was going on.  I thought it was pretty good that he had a daughter he had to protect from guys who were just like he was when he was their age.  I really enjoyed the secondary characters - Posey's brother and his partner, the parents and friends, and cousin Gretchen were all terrific.  Posey also had a great influence on Liam and his OCD safety issues.  I absolutely loved the conclusion of the story.

A Lancaster County Christmas - Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell - Sept 2011)

Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas?

Excellent book.  I really liked all the characters in this book, even though they all had their issues.  Jamie was so involved in her grief over her mother's death, and trying to be the daughter her father wanted, that she couldn't see what it was doing to her marriage.  CJ loved Jamie, but he was having trouble reaching her anymore, and was afraid that he was losing her.  Mattie was so filled with despair over her inability to get pregnant that she was trying to control everything around her.  She was being overprotective of her son and critical of her husband.  Sol couldn't make Mattie see what she was doing to Danny, and was frustrated by her inability to see that Zach was going further down the wrong road.  Zach was confused about what he wanted, and kept getting into trouble just for the attention.  Thanks to the snowstorm, they were all thrown together.  Because of a crisis, each was able to move ahead and see where they belonged to each other.

A Plain and Fancy Christmas - Cynthia Keller (Ballantine - Oct 2011)

Raised in a Pennsylvania Amish community, young mother Rachel Yoder has led a simple life within her close-knit family. Widowed three years ago, she has moved back in with her parents, attempting to raise her daughter, Katie, without further emotional upheaval. Meanwhile, four hours and a whole world away in New York City, Ellie Lawrence is laser-focused on a high-powered public relations career, with too little time for her family, her friends, or even her boyfriend.

Then one fateful day, these two very different women receive shocking news of a mistake made three decades earlier and long kept hidden: Shortly after their births, the two were accidentally switched in the hospital. Shaken to the core by this momentous news, Rachel and Ellie are plunged into an exploration of who they are and where they really belong. While Ellie is eager to learn more about her Amish family and their life in the countryside, Rachel cannot help but feel jealous as she watches the only mother she has ever known bonding so easily with her natural daughter. But Rachel also knows that her own biological family is out there, and with Katie at her side she heads for Manhattan, where she establishes a connection with the raucous, spirited Lawrences.

As Ellie and Rachel make their way through unfamiliar landscapes, they face life-altering challenges and grapple with a crucial question: Will their old conventions and desires give way to new customs and yearnings? With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it takes the love of two families for Rachel and Ellie to discover their own paths to fulfillment and happiness.

A different twist on the switched at birth story.  It was very interesting to see how the two women coped with the idea of having a different family, and one so different than the way they were raised.  After the initial shock, both families welcomed the "new" daughter.  Meeting her Amish family gave Ellie a sense of herself that had been missing for awhile, and gave her the courage to make a major change in her life.  Rachel had also frequently felt like she didn't quite fit in with her family.  Ellie left her job and moved to Pennsylvania to spend time with Rachel's family.  There she began to live a simpler life that felt much more rewarding to her.  Rachel took Katie and went to live in Ellie's apartment in New York, and spent time with the Lawrence family.  It was very hard for them in the city, especially Katie.  Rachel also learned some things about herself.  I really enjoyed seeing the two women as they grew and adapted to their new families.

The Norse King's Daughter - Sandra Hill (Avon - Oct 2011)

Series: Viking 1 (Book 10) 

Hell Hath No Fury Like a Princess Scorned!

Princess Drifa can certainly see why Sidroc Guntersson is a living legend -- on battlefield and in bedchamber both. But the King of Stoneheim’s willful daughter pitches a royal fit when she learns of the true reason for the virile Viking’s passionate attentions. A third-born son with no hope of inheriting the family jarldom, scheming Sidroc must marry and is interested in Drifa only for her father’s land and money. The barbarian is lucky she just cracks him on his fool head with a pottery pitcher!

Five years later, Drifa needs Sidroc’s protection -- in Byzantium, no less! -- though revenge holds more appeal for this man she left for dead. ’Tis a pity two such perfect enemies match each other so well, passion for passion. So much so that the bold Viking berserker is soon thinking marriage again . . . only this time it will be on his terms! 

Good book.  I always love Sandra Hill's Viking tales -- the characters are always so colorful.  In the beginning Sidroc comes to ask for Drifa's hand in marriage.  She is ready to say yes until she overhears him make some obnoxious remarks, so she hits him over the head with a pitcher and knocks him out.  When he come to, six weeks later, she is gone so he leaves.  Five years later they meet again.  He is ready for some revenge, and plans to use her passion to get it.  When she is kidnapped he rides to the rescue.  As time goes on, they develop feelings for each other, but neither will admit it.  I love the back and forth dialog of the two as they work through their issues.  I also like the secondary characters, and seeing those from earlier books.