Check out The Quirky Ladies Interview with Dalton Diaz and Samantha Cayto!

Penelope is proud as a peacock (maybe I shouldn't have used that word! hee hee) of her critique partner Dalton Diaz. Her second book was released today on Ellora's Cave! Martinis for everyone! Please stop by The Quirky Ladies blog today and check out the funny interview with Dalton and her co-author Samantha Cayto. Their new erotic book, Illegal Moves, is a spicy menage story. You know, habanero spicy. Cayenne spicy. Smoking! Since I had the good fortune to actually read this novel as they were writing it, I can tell you it's fabulous. In fact, I will be reviewing it next week. After I take a cold shower. Happy reading everyone!

Penelope

P.S. You must check out the full book cover. It's derriere-lish. No kidding.

Emily Bryan Reviews A Little Light Magic by Joy Nash

Please welcome my first guest reviewer (woo hoo!) Emily Bryan! Emily is one of my favorite historical romance authors. She has written a wonderful review of A Little Light Magic by Joy Nash for your reading pleasure. Special thanks to Emily for the great review, and to Joy for writing a lovely book!

Penelope

A Little Light Magic by Joy Nash

Review by Guest Reviewer Emily Bryan

As a writer, I usually read to analyze how other authors handle "writerly" issues - POV shifts, info dumps, character arc, etc. So cracking the spine of a book is part of what I do to hone my craft. 

But there are a few authors whose prose sucks me so completely into their fictive dream, they make me forget that I'm a writer too. One member of that elite group is Joy Nash.

I've sighed with contentment over her Druids of Avalon series and listened to my heart pound in my ears while reading her Immortals stories. So I wondered how she'd do with A Little Light Magic, a tale set on the prosaic Jersey shore. As usual, Joy works her magic and I am completely drawn into her characters' lives.

Her heroine Tori is the delightfully quirky owner of a New Age shop in possession of some magic "hoodoo" candles. Her hero Nick is the hunky contractor who agrees to take on her little "repair" project in order to get her shop open in time for the solstice. She's high on the metaphysical world and his feet are set firmly on the ground.

They're perfect for each other.

Joy Nash peoples her novel with achingly real secondary characters with their own very real issues - Nick's teenage daughter struggling with whether or not to put out for her popular boyfriend, his shoplifting grandmother, his menopausal mother who lies about her secret weekly trysts, Tori's lesbian couple friends and their new baby. Joy has a knack for creating characters who breathe on their own.

So, run out today and give your summer the kick off it deserves with Joy Nash's A Little Light Magic. You will thank me.

Thanks for letting me guest review today, Penelope! For more of my recommendations, please visit Em's Picks!

Thanks, Emily! Here are a few links my readers might enjoy...happy reading everyone! 

Joy Nash's website

Joy's blog

Emily Bryan's website

Emily's blog

A Blast From The Past: Review of A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole

A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole (2006)

There are not many romance novels that earn my ultimate seal of approval. Which happens when I finish a book and think "Holy Mother Of God...that was un-freakin'-believable!" Kresley Cole's first installment of her IAD series (Immortal After Dark) is one such book.  It is so damned original, unexpected and brilliant that I honestly think it's the (drum-roll please) Number One Paranormal Romance Novel Of All Time.  It's Cole's combination of humor, pop culture references, incredibly hot sex scenes, and amazing characters that do the trick.  Her introduction of this paranormal world (werewolves, vampires, demons, witches, Valkyries, etc.) is simply out of this world.  Lachlain, King of the Lykae, and Emmaline Troy, daughter of Helen of Troy (!) and a vampire king, are one of the greatest paranormal pairings I've ever read. His lusty intensity and devotion to his unexpected mate, and her surprising metamorphosis from a fearful immortal into a kick-ass warrior/vampire-slayer, make for one rocking ride. Emmaline's fey family is one the most hilarious, original and complex family units you'll find in paranormal romance. I love them! And that cover is the hottest thing I've ever seen. If you have never checked out Cole's series, I highly recommend this book. It will leave you hungry for more. Grade: A+

Pleased to be re-reading old favorites,

Penelope

Review of At Last Comes Love by Mary Balogh

At Last Comes Love by Mary Balogh

The first book of the new Huxtable series by Balogh was sweet (First Comes Marriage).  The second one (Then Comes Seduction) was a snoozer.  The third one, At Last Comes Love, really rocked my boat. Why? The characters. It's all about the characters.  The premise of this book is wickedly delicious...Duncan Pennethorne must marry within fifteen days, before his grandfather's 80th birthday, or lose his family home and income.  Margaret Huxtable is desperate for a quickie fiancee to fling in her ex-lover's face.  These two run (literally) into each other at Lady Tindell's ball.  Duncan asks the beautiful stranger in his arms..."What is your hurry? Why not stay and dance with me? And then marry me and live happily ever after with me?"  Margaret responds, "Does it have to be in that order?"  Oh, what a perfectly fabulous hook!! Long live Mary Balogh!! Duncan is an absolute blacksheep of the ton who, according to the gossip mill, left his last bride at the altar and took off with her married sister.  The dark secrets he hides about the truth of this scenario slowly unfold, and we (and of course Margaret) realize he is actually a man of honor.  Margaret seems to be an over-the-hill spinster who spent her marriageable years taking care of her younger siblings.  She turns out to have an iron will and a repressed sensuality that her new husband nurtures.  The scene where she meets Duncan's grandfather is priceless! Margaret parries with the crotchety old coot and ends up victorious.  She's not such a dull miss after all.  This delightful story is Balogh all the way...the awakening sensuality of a new bride, the shocking secret lives of the ton, the blossoming courtship between two lonely souls.  Stephen's story, Seducing An Angel, is next, and I can't wait.  At Last Comes Love is...simply delightful! Grade: A

Wishing all of you a Happy Monday,

Penelope

Shameless Self-Promotion

I just wanted to share the rocking cover for my romance novel, which will be published by The Wild Rose Press.  Cookies, anyone?  Here's the book blurb, for your reading pleasure!

Sweet Inspiration

What if the legend of Santa Claus is in fact, true? What if Santa has five big strapping sons who help him run his empire? Five single, sexy sons looking for romance...

Nicholas Klaus is a master pastry chef, a strict disciplinarian, and the eldest son of the legendary Santa Claus. One look at cafe owner Lucy Brewster sends him into an unexpected tailspin of lusty desires. When Lucy is injured, Nicholas makes a decision that catapults their lives into turmoil...

Lucy Brewster, the free-spirited proprietor of Sweet Inspiration, has a flair for concocting sugary confections but no time for adventure. She gets more than she bargained for when she awakens in the North Pole...rambunctious elves, a fitness-obsessed Santa, and the man of her dreams. Does she have what it takes to become the next Mrs. Klaus?

A Couple of Snoozers

I have read a bevy of great books lately, but I've also slept through a couple. Mary Balogh's Then Comes Seduction is not her best work. Katherine Huxtable is just plain boring and so is the story. Margaret's story, At Last Comes Love, is next in line and looks more promising. I'm looking forward to it since I love Balogh and was disappointed in Then Comes Seduction.  My worry that the Huxtables could never compare to the Bedwyns is unfortunately coming true.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed for the next installment.

I also read Christine Feehan's Burning Wild this past week. Not her best effort, I must say. First of all, the beginning of the book details Jake's horrific child abuse at the hands of his parents.  Call me funny, but I just don't think child abuse and romance mix all that well. (This is one of the reasons I don't love contemporary romance...I don't want to be reminded of the horrors of real life, I'm looking for escape.) The rest of the book is basically...well, boring. Hard to believe that a shape-shifting Christine Feehan book could be boring, but there you have it. Too much whining, introspection, how can I learn to love after my shiteous upbringing, blah, blah, blah. And Emma is too good to be true. I am looking forward to the release of the final Drake Sisters novel, Hidden Currents (Elle's story), which will be out on June 30 (my birthday!).  Also, Feehan's newest Carpathian novel Dark Slayer will be released in September of 2009. Dark Slayer is the story of Ivory Malinov and Razvan, and should be a fascinating book. I can't wait!

After finishing Jacquie d'Alessandro's Tempted at Midnight, I went back to read some of her oldies.  I just finished re-reading Red Roses Mean Love (1999), and I want to heartily recommend this book to those of you who have not checked it out.  D'Alessandro is truly a brilliant historical romance writer, and this touching, humorous story is a keeper! 

Please leave a comment with any and all suggestions for me, especially if you have read a romance lately that you adored!

Thanks, Penelope

Review of The Perfect Poison by Amanda Quick

The Perfect Poison by Amanda Quick

Penelope has two great passions in her life (aside, of course, from her fly-fishing addicted husband and two rocking kids)...romantic fiction and plants. Yes, along time ago (in a galaxy far, far away) Penelope earned a degree in plant science from an ivy league university, and her obsession with plants continues to this day. So, just imagine my delight to discover a book that combines these two obsessions!  The Perfect Poison by Amanda Quick is so right up my alley, it's ridiculous.  A heroine who knows the Latin names for all things botanical (and wears glasses).  A hero who is a psychically enhanced, socially-inept, intensely single-minded investigator obsessed with finding mathematical patterns in everything (did I mention that my hubbie was a valedictorian?)  Quick's latest addition to the Arcane Society series is my perfect cup of (hopefully non-poisoned) tea.  I have been intrigued by Caleb Jones since the commencement of this series, and Quick did not disappoint with his story. Lucinda Bromley, botanical genius and a fellow member of the Arcane Society (her "gift" is determining if someone has been poisoned by a botanical substance...love it!) is the perfect complement to Jones.  She frees him from his self-imposed jail of numbers, patterns and a fear of imminent insanity with her no-nonsense approach to life (and love).  I especially like how Quick incorporates the psychic aspect into the love scenes of these novels...the sex is not only emotionally and physically satisfying, but also psychically satsifying...top that! I must say that their first love scene in the drying shed is one of  the most romantic scenarios I could imagine...Caleb makes a fragrant "bed" of dried flowers and herbs on the ground, covers them with his coat, and makes love to Lucinda.  Sigh.  As usual, the humorous dialogue is excellent, secondary characters intriguing, and the villains shady and mysterious.  Quick may have these historicals down to a certain formula, but it's a great formula. Don't mess with perfection, in my not so humble opinion.

Grade: A

With the highest recommendation,

Penelope

Review of Lover Avenged by J.R.Ward

Lover Avenged by J.R. Ward

JR Ward is taking her fans on a bumpy journey with The Black Dagger Brotherhood series.  It started out with a bang (Dark Lover, book 1), built up incredible steam through book 4, crashed and burned (in my not so humble opinion) in books 5 and 6, and now book 7, Lover Avenged, has erupted back onto the scene as one incredible story. Last night while my family was watching American Idol, I hid in the kitchen with this book, unable to put it down for even a second. My daughter kept screaming, "Mom, you're missing American Idol!" but honestly, Adam Lambert could not possibly compete with Rehv. Sorry.  Ward has created another spellbinding installment of this series with Rehvenge's story...he is a fascinating and complex character who deserved a great book, and Ward delivered.  Her formula of weaving multiple storylines, a primary romance, and a violent war between the Lessers and the vampires of Caldwell, has been at times very successful, and at times a failure (Lover Enshrined). Lover Avenged is absolutely perfectly balanced...we get a satisfying love story between Rehvenge, a half-sympath/half-vampire, and Ehlena, a vampire nurse with a heart of gold. We get amazing storylines about Tohr, who is recovering from a life-altering trauma (the death of his shellan), and Wrath, the king, who is developing full-blown blindness.  (I am not as thrilled with John and Xhex's storyline...unfortunately, I just don't find either of these characters very likable, and I'm wondering what Ward is planning to do with this couple.)  My favorite parts of this book? The final climatic scene in the sympath colony is reminiscent of a Stephen King book...unbelievably great! The hideous and vile sympath princess is a fantastic villain (better than Lash, the Omega's son, in my opinion).  I also LOVE Tohr and his storyline...the scene where Tohr and Rhage are sitting around shooting the s--t is wonderful. Ward has also done a great job with Wrath's storyline, the shocking ultimate loss of his vision. The undying support of his Brothers and his shellan is really what this series is all about. Loyalty and complete devotion. My only major complaint is that Ehlena's acceptance of Rehv's double life (drug-dealing club owner) is a little too pat. Wasn't quite on board with that.  But her daring rescue of the man she loves is a fabulous resolution to this book, and a return to what I adored about Ward's earliest books in the series...romance! The bottom line about Lover Avenged? It is captivating. I am personally thrilled that JR Ward has recaptured the magic of this series.  She is back with a vhengeance. 

Grade: A

Penelope

Review of Tempted at Midnight by Jacquie D'Alessandro

Tempted at Midnight by Jacquie D'Alessandro

Which of the following is true?

While vacationing in Sanibel, Penelope...

A) wore an itty bitty bikini

B) met a cabana boy named Sven

C) got a deep dark tropical tan

D) read Tempted at Midnight while sipping a strawberry daiquiri, and remembered why she loves Jacquie D'Alessandro so much!

Yes, of course the answer is D.  Penelope would not be caught dead in a bikini. First of all, let me just say how very much I adore the name Jacquie D'Alessandro.  It simply rolls off the tongue and inspires all sorts of romantic notions.  What an excellent name for a romance author! Magnifico! I am a huge fan of Jacquie D'Alessandro for the simple reason that she is a fabulous writer.  Her characters are wonderful, her stories are engaging, funny, sweet and emotional, and....very, very sexy.  Certain authors really capture the male POV incredibly well, and D'Alessandro is one of them.  I always adore her heroes, especially Andrew Stanton in Love and the Single Heiress (LOVE that book!).  It's been a while since I read one of her novels, and Tempted at Midnight was a super way to jump back into her writing. Logan and Emily are a case of two opposites attracting, both of them baffled by their intense sexual chemistry (and fighting it every step of the way).  In the midst of their prickly and combative relationship is a sweet and satisfying scene where Logan runs into Emily's family at Hyde Park. In this one scene, everything changes...Emily sees Logan in a new light as he bonds with her family, and Logan finds out that Miss Prim-and-Proper has another side to her (undefeated champion frog catcher).  Here is an example of a great author at work...with just one simple scene, the reader rejoices as this new and awakening romance unfurls. D'Alessandro's heroes are always protective, full of integrity and selfless, everything a hero should be (and oh yeah, very sexy, too. Can't forget that part!)  D'Alessandro's dialogue is also wonderful and full of humor.  My favorite line in this book is "That's my damn hunk of cheese, you bastard!" (You'll have to read the book for the full effect!) For those of you who are already familiar with this author, this book is an excellent addition to your library.  For those who have not read D'Alessandro yet, check out Whirlwind Wedding, Red Roses Mean Love, and my all time favorite, Love and the Single Heiress. And of course, Tempted at Midnight. You will not be disappointed.  I highly recommend this book, which has earned an A for Awesome! 

Grade: A 

Tempted to read more Jacquie D'Alessandro books,

Penelope

Vacation Time! April 19-26

Good-bye (temporarily!) to all of my faithful fans...Penelope will be sunning herself in lovely Sanibel, Florida until Sunday April 26.  Hopefully, I will return rested, invigorated, and not looking like an overcooked lobster. 

Packing and prepping for Floridian activities,

Penelope

Premio Dardos Award

Many thanks to Emily Bryan for the shout-out on her blog site.  She was awarded a Premio Dardos Award which "acknowledges the values that every blogger shows in his or her effort to transmit cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values every day." Nice! She is spreading the love by mentioning five of her favorite blogspots, including Penelope's Romance Reviews! She says (and I quote)..."Penny's reading tastes are broad and she gives thoughtful, well-written reviews. I've been fortunate to receive lots of raves for my work, but Penny's insights are fresh and intensely 'quotable' - a quality my editor really prizes in reviews!" Oh, I feel a swoon coming on! Emily also mentions some other excellent blogs she enjoys, including MamaWriters, which I love. Here are my recommendations for some additional Premio Dardos Awards...

• The Long and Short of It All - an excellent website for dachshund lovers
• The Quirky Ladies - a romance writer's blog composed of six women writing various genres of romance, including historical, paranormal, fantasy, contemporary, and erotic
• The Witchy Chicks - a blog by nine women writing in the fantasy/magic spectre, including Annette Blair, one of my favorite authors!
• The Moody Muses - another romance writer's blog, written by a wonderful, supportive group of women, also part of the New England Chapter of the RWA
• Emily Bryan's Blog - (right back at you, babe!)...Emily always has an interesting topic to read about, including cool historic tidbits, interviews, and of course, the Mr. Romance Contest at RT doesn't hurt either.

And so, by the power vested in me, I hearby bestow the honor of Premio Dardos to these exemplary bloggers, and look forward to reading many more fascinating posts (especially the ones about Mr. Romance...don't forget to post photos, Emily!!!!)

Passionately yours, Penelope

Review of The Vampire Queen's Servant by Joey Hill

The Vampire Queen's Servant by Joey Hill

I would like to think that I am not the squeamish type when it comes to romance novels. However, a book classified as a BDSM erotic vampire novel sounds a bit daunting, does it not? Since reading A Mermaid's Kiss and A Witch's Beauty, I have become a serious Joey Hill fan. My good friend and fellow writer Michelle heartily encouraged me to start her vampire series, and so I acquiesced, all the while harboring some reservations about the BDSM stuff. Who would have expected it to be one of the most touching, revealing and vulnerable relationships in a romance novel? Hell, not me. (Okay, I was expecting whips and chains. So sue me.) Obviously I was missing the big picture about this lifestyle, which is ultimately about trust. But having the dominant be the female partner, in this case Lyssa the vampire queen, is a fascinating take on this sort of relationship. Jacob is a fabulous character, struggling with his instinctive need to dominate and the need to serve his "lady" who has stolen his heart over several lifetimes, as a knight, a Japanese warrior, and now as an applicant to be her human servant.  God, is that romantic or what? This is one of the most "romantic" books I have ever read, and the fact that it is a BDSM erotic paranormal is just some tasty icing on the cake.  Hill has written a beautiful book, although not as intense and fast-paced a read as A Mermaid's Kiss or A Witch's Beauty. Jacob and Lyssa's story unfolds in a slow, sensual, and satisfying way. Another interesting part of this book is that one of the key characters (Thomas, Lyssa's former servant and instructor for Jacob) has already died when this book takes place. That does not stop Hill from painting a stunning portrait of this man who selflessly loved his vampire queen, and dared to kill for her.  Joey Hill is a writer beyond reproach and The Vampire Queen's Servant is a joy to read. I can't wait to devour the rest of the series! Grade: A+

Predicting a very vampirish spring vacation, Penelope

Spring Break Is Almost Here!

Penelope is chomping at the bit for Spring Vacation. There's nothing more wonderful than lounging on the beach in lovely Sanibel Island with a frosty strawberry daiquiri and my basket filled with romance novels. I have a few books I'm looking forward to devouring...Amanda Quick's The Perfect Poison, Mary Balogh's Then Comes Seduction, and Tempted at Midnight by Jacquie D'Alessandro. I would love your reading suggestions. Have you read any good romance novels lately? Please let me know...I'll add them into my beach bag. Thanks! 

Praying for sunny weather and cabana boys who look like Hugh Jackman,

Penelope

A Blast from the Past: Review of Mistress by Amanda Quick (1994)

Mistress by Amanda Quick

I thought I had pretty much read all of Amanda Quick's historicals, but I guess there are still a couple kicking around that I missed. I discovered this one in the romance section of Barnes and Nobles, and I was filled with glee. I adore Amanda Quick...she creates perfectly wonderful characters, well-paced, interesting story lines, and emotionally satisfying "moments of intimacy." Mistress follows the romantic adventures of Iphiginia (where does she get these names?) and Marcus, the Earl of Masters (and yes, he is masterful). Honest to God, Quick's dialogue is brilliant.  The witty banter between her characters is flawless.  Unlike other books in her collection, this one had a somewhat convoluted path to resolution. Not only is Iphiginia obsessed with antiquities, she also was headmistress of a finishing school, as well as a successful real estate developer. Marcus is a farmer, an earl, an inventor fascinated by machinery, and a would-be astronomer. Phew! Talk about multi-tasking. Halfway through the book, it appears that the villain blackmailer has been uncovered. Obviously, since the book is only half over, that is not the case. Quick takes us down various paths including illegitimate family reunions, murders of odious first husbands, a hilarious scene at Dr. Hardstaff's Museum of the Goddesses of Manly Vigor (Dr. Hardstaff, get it?), and confrontations with lecherous ex-employers. She really packs a lot into this book!  I am a fairly forgiving reader as long as I get my satisfying romance, and once again this well-loved author delivers with Marcus and Iphiginia. Although Mistress is not quite as good as some of her other stories (such as Ravished, one of my favorites), I still found it a fun affair. Grade: B+

Sincerely, Penelope

Feeling the Love!

Wow! What a great weekend...the NECRWA 2009 Let Your Imagination Take Flight conference was super spectacular. I attended some excellent workshops, did lots and lots of schmoozing, and gabbed with some amazing authors.  Two things occurred to me while sipping my appletini...one is that the NECRWA (New England Chapter of the Romance Writers of America) is a very warm, welcoming and sincere group of women (and a couple of men, too!). Whether you are a world-renowned bestseller or a "newbie" just starting your first manuscript, you are treated with kindness, respect and an infectious camaraderie borne from a love of romantic fiction. The second thing I marvelled at was how open and welcoming many of the well-known authors are. (I must admit the first time I met Loretta Chase at a book-signing, I stammered and blushed and practically required CPR to recover). Instead of being pumped up on their own self-importance, they are perfectly willing to hobnob with mere mortals, and actually chat, joke and encourage our own burgeoning careers.  Jessica Andersen is one of the most down to earth people you could imagine. Annette Blair is a pocket rocket of enthusiasm.  And Jennifer Greene and I discussed how much we enjoy adverbs.  (I really, really love adverbs).  This conference was especially exciting for me since I SOLD MY FIRST BOOK THIS WEEK!!!!!  I am not sure if there are words to describe this euphoria, but I will try....HOLY MACARENA...I FINALLY DID IT! (Penelope is not feeling particularly modest at the moment).

I was feeling the love this weekend.  Thanks to everyone who offered congratulations and well wishes and let me dirty dance with them on Friday night.  (Honestly, it was the appletinis).  I think I'm going to have a bumper sticker made that says "I Dirty Danced With Judith Arnold." After following that sacred journey of all new writers (you know, writing half a werewolf book before I knew what central conflict meant, accumulating enough rejection letters to wallpaper my entire house, and wondering why the hell I wrote a 55,000-word story about Santa in love), I am thrilled to be entering the next stage of my writing career.  I feel incredibly blessed to be part of this writing community.  And I am already fantasizing about throwing a kick-ass book launch party involving Chippendale dancers dressed in Santa hats, peppermint martinis and plenty of Christmas cookies.  Maybe I'll even get a holly tattoo. Hmmm.  I would also like to extend a special thanks to my friends The Quirky Ladies who believed in me even when I felt like a small bug crushed by a mountain of rejections.

Happy romance reading to all, and to all a good night!

Feeling profoundly proud, Penelope

New England Chapter of the RWA Conference

Penelope is very excited about the upcoming NECRWA Let Your Imagination Take Flight conference.  It's two days of workshops, inspiring speakers, gut-wrenching pitches to agents, and of course my personal favorite, schmoozing. If you are an aspiring romance writer (or already have mastered the fine art of writing romance), this just might be your lucky weekend. Past highlights have included a funny, touching keynote speech by Annette Blair, Jess Andersen's perfect pitch workshop, and an excellent talk about "pantsing" by Diane Amos.  (For those non-writers, authors are either "plotters" or "pantsers" as in, writing-by-the-seat-of-your-pants.) Penelope happens to be a pantser and found Diane's talk quite helpful.  She also loves the cute picture of Miss Molly on her website! Dachshund lovers unite!  Lisa Gardner, Jennifer Greene, and Jessica Andersen are among the speakers this year.  If you are so inclined stop by for inspiration, motivation, and maybe an appletini or two.  Hope to see you there!

Having the best day of her life, Penelope

Rant About JR Ward, Blood-Sucking Vampires, and Rockability

Today, I decided to employ a new term for my reviews...rockability.  A great book has a high rockability rating. When I think an author "rocks the house" or "rocks out" then the rockability quotient is right up there.  I get very enthusiastic about certain books/authors, and I also have high expectations for highly rockable authors. JR Ward, master of blood-sucking vampires, got her paranormal series The Black Dagger Brotherhood off to a rousing start.  The early books, especially Lover Revealed (Butch's story) and Lover Awakened (Zsadist's story) are absolutely mind-blowingly good books.  Ward has everything a paranormal fan is looking for....larger than life heroes, a well crafted (if at times dark and violent) world, super hot sex, incredible secondary characters. In fact, this world is so delicious, it is down right addictive (just ask the millions of crazed fans who frequent her website).  Problem is, if you are an author with a lot of rockability, you establish high expectations with your followers.  Rabid followers. Then, you've got to deliver the goods or incur the Wrath (pun intended) of your disappointed fans.  Ward had us going up through book four in the series.  But V's book (Lover Unbound) was a disappointment to me. And Phury's book (Lover Enshrined) made me phurious (sorry, I couldn't help myself). (In a nutshell...lukewarm heroine, crappy romance, horribly disappointing first sex scene after 5 books of self-imposed celibacy for Phury, etc., etc.).  In fact, my friends cringe when I start ranting about Phury's book..."Oh dear God help us, she's starting up about Phury's book again. Take cover!" In Ward's defense, sustaining rockability over the course of a series is tough. Sherrilyn Kenyon was one of my all-time favorite authors for a long time (I adore Dance With The Devil and Night Play), but her "formula" is getting stale, and she needs to jet this series and start something new. Karen Marie Moning started a new series (the Fever series) and they have some serious rockability. 

Lover Avenged, #7 in Ward's Brotherhood series, will be released April 28, 2009.  It is Rehvenge's story.  He is a superb character and is deserving of an incredible book.  Will Ward get back to her winning formula (intense lusty love affairs between kick-ass vampires and women strong enough to handle them equals fabulous reading)? I sure hope so.  I was filled with trepidation about this latest installment until I read the two excerpts from Lover Avenged on her website.  They rocked the house! Oh yeah! I am cautiously optimistic about Rehv's book and am hoping that Ward has gotten back to the best part of this series for romance readers.  Namely, romance.  

I would love to hear my reader's opinions about series that are flailing, and those they think are right on target.  Anyone else excited for Rehv's book? Anyone else thinking about getting a purple mohawk? I am hoping that Ward's rockability has returned with a vhengeance. 

Reeling with Rockability, Penelope

Review of Temptation and Surrender by Stephanie Laurens

Temptation and Surrender by Stephanie Laurens

Yes, I splurged and bought the hardcover copy of the latest Stephanie Laurens book.  This is #16 of the beloved Cynster series by this author.  I have been a fan for some time, and of course read the entire series in chronological order (as well as the Bastion Club series).  Laurens is the epitome of traditional historical romance...beautiful heroines, alpha male heroes, fascinating tidbits of the Regency era, and a mystery thrown in for good measure. Laurens is also known for her high sensuality rating...love scenes have been known to go on and on and on...oh my! (Is it getting hot in here?)  Although this is not the very best of her Cynster series, I found this story very sweet and satisfying.  Jonas Tallent and Emily Beauregard make an engaging couple in traditional Laurens fashion...he is protective, she is hiding a secret, he seduces her, she surprises him with her passionate virginal response.  I really enjoyed the suspense portion of this story.  Emily is trying to solve the mystery of an old poem supposedly describing the hiding place of their family fortune. If you are a Laurens fan, then this book is a like a nice hot cup of jasmine tea...comforting, pleasant, but not really full of too much excitement.  After finishing Temptation and Surrender, I realized that what makes Laurens' books really pop is very strong hero/heroine combinations....like Devil and Honoria, Richard and Catriona, Gyles and Francesca, and my personal favorites Gabriel and Althea from A Secret Love.  If the hero/heroine combo is not vivid enough, the story is enjoyable, but not necessarily memorable. Laurens fans will enjoy this latest installment of the series, but if you are new to this author I suggest starting with Devil's Bride, especially if you prefer apple-tinis over a hot cup of tea. Grade: B

P.S. The most exciting part of this book is the excerpt for Mastered by Love, the final Bastion club book, which is Dalziel's story.  Ya-hoo!!!! I cannot wait. The book is slated to be released on July 28, 2009.  Dalziel is my kind of hero...dark, brooding, mysterious, dangerous...one hot tamale! 

With the Utmost Graciousness, Penelope

Jessica Andersen Interview by The Quirky Ladies

I would like to invite my readers to check out this fantastic interview of Jessica Andersen by The Quirky Ladies.  Jess is the acclaimed author of the paranormal Final Prophecy series, as well as numerous romantic suspense novels by Harlequin. (She also happens to be great friends and critique partners with JR Ward! I would dearly love to be a fly on the wall during some of those conversations.) Please stop by and leave a comment for Jess, and you could win a free book. There is also an excerpt from her upcoming novel Skykeepers. Check it out!

Preparing to poke around the interview, Penelope

A Blast from the Past: Review of Ready, Willing, And Able by Lucy Monroe

Ready, Willing, and And Able by Lucy Monroe (2005-2006)

Of all the romance sub-genres, contemporary is not my favorite.  I usually need a little something extra to float my boat...something like a Regency setting, blood-sucking vampires, or macho time-traveling Scottish warriors.  But every once in awhile I read a contemporary that I love, and this trilogy by Lucy Monroe (with very witty titles, Ready, Willing, And Able-cute!!!) is great. The books focus on a trio of ex-Ranger friends. I really enjoyed the well paced suspense in all three stories, which include dealing with threatening stalkers, mysterious explosions, and ex-assassins.  But the best part of this series is the heroes...yummy! They are total alpha-male ex-military types all the way. Monroe really knows how to spin a steamy love affair.  My only complaint is that the guys take a little long to figure out their "sexual possessiveness" is really love. But hey, gotta get that conflict in there somehow, right? I also like that the heroines are not your typical romance gals...one is a computer geek, one is a military-trained tomboy, and the last one is a writer-divorcee.  My favorite of the books is Willing, about a Native American hero coming to terms with his abusive father.  He falls in love with the tomboy, and her loss-of-virginity scene is incredibly touching and romantic. Anyhoo, if you're looking for a fun stack of books to tackle on the beach, I would recommend tossing this trio into your suitcase.  Sipping a strawberry daiquiri under a beach umbrella and reading this sexy trilogy will make it a super vacation.  (Can you tell I'm dreaming about Spring Break?) Grade: A

Totally trilogy-tempted, Penelope

Interview of Joey Hill on The Quirky Ladies blog

Hello my faithful readers! I would like to invite you to check out an interview with one of my new favorite paranormal authors, Joey W. Hill.  I have reviewed two of her fabulous books, A Mermaid's Kiss and A Witch's Beauty.  The Quirky Ladies are interviewing her on their blog Tuesday, March 3.  Please enjoy the interview and leave comments for Joey.  Also, I have two new reviews coming up this week...Mary Balogh's latest book, First Comes Marriage, and Stephanie Laurens' newest Cynster novel, Temptation and Surrender.  Look for them soon! 

All my best, Penelope

Review of First Comes Marriage by Mary Balogh

First Comes Marriage by Mary Balogh

She felt beautiful.

She felt cherished.

Ah, how I truly adore the prose of Mary Balogh.  After I read these two sentences in her latest book, I realized this is why women love romance novels...because secretly we all want to feel beautiful and cherished, and we are sure to find these pure sentiments in Balogh's exquisitely crafted stories.  After exhausting the Bedwyn family in her "Simply" series, Balogh has moved on to the Huxtables, who are introduced in First Comes Marriage.  Frankly, I wonder if she will be able to create a family as superb as the Bedwyns, who are truly one of the most memorable of romance families. First Comes Marriage is the story of Vanessa Huxtable Dew and Elliott Wallace, and is somewhat reminiscent for me of More Than A Mistress, one of my all-time favorite romances.  Vanessa is an interesting character...a "plain Jane" with a joy for life and an intense loyalty to her family.  Elliott, much to his surprise, finds himself falling in lust and love with his wife "of convenience."  What I most admire about Balogh's writing is how she distills everything down to the most fundamentally important components of a love story...namely, love.  And joy. And pride, which threatens the path to happiness, of course. There is a starkness to her stories I find incredibly satisfying.  Not every author can elicit the feeling of spring by describing something as simple as a field of daffodils on a sunny day.  Balogh is truly a wonderful writer.  Although the rest of the family did not spark a lot of interest, Constantine, the outcast illegitimate cousin, is quite fascinating.  I cannot wait to read more about him!   I highly recommend First Comes Marriage, a quintessential Balogh novel, and look forward to more promising stories in this series about the Huxtable family. Grade: A

Hoping for Spring, Penelope

Review of Vexing the Viscount by Emily Bryan

Vexing the Viscount by Emily Bryan

Every once in awhile I discover a new writer and I am filled with glee.  A fresh, new voice! An engaging story! Wonderful, fully-formed characters who are interesting, and more importantly, who I grow to care about as I read the novel! This was my reaction to reading Distracting the Duchess by Emily Bryan. (I also had this reaction when reading Candice Hern's In the Thrill of the Night and Elizabeth Hoyt's The Raven Prince).  I found Emily Bryan to be a unique voice in the land of historical romances. This genre has a tendency to be very formulaic, but when it's done well, it is a treat for the reader.  I had high expectations for Vexing the Viscount, and Bryan delivered. Vexing the Viscount is fantastique! (I apologize for breaking into francaise, but Blanche La Tour has inspired me, vraiment!) This book is the total package...witty humor, lusty sex, intriguing plot, great pacing, and marvelous characters.  I loved the unexpected flashback to Caius Meritus in ancient Rome.  It was a great device to pull you into the mystery that Daisy and Lucian are trying to solve. Caius' tragic love story is very touching and really brings history alive. C'est magnifique!  I must admit that when the premise for the story was revealed (virgin pretending to be a courtesan), I thought "Now how the heck is Bryan going to pull this one off?" Honestly, it was done incredibly well.  I highly recommend Vexing the Viscount.  And now I am off to find a croissant au chocolat! Au revoir! Grade: A

Bien a toi, Penelope

Review of Zen and the Art of Vampires by Katie MacAlister

Zen and the Art of Vampires by Katie MacAlister

I have found, in my vast wisdom as romance reader extraordinaire, that Katie MacAlister is somewhat inconsistent with her books.  Some of her stories are brilliant (Noble Intentions), some are not (Men in Kilts). Her light paranormals (the Aisling Grey Guardian series, Silver Dragon series, etc) are usually fun reads.  However, she is one of those authors who adores (1) first person narrative,  (2) irritating heroines, and (3) paranormal scenarios where the heroine has not a clue about what's going on and has a steep on the job learning curve.  I have a bit of a problem with irritating first person heroines who are clueless.  That being said, I have often enjoyed her stories, particularly the Silver Dragon series.  I grabbed a copy of Zen and the Art of Vampires at the airport recently, and proceeded to read the entire book on my flight (have I mentioned I'm a fast reader?).  I really enjoyed A Girl's Guide to Vampires and thought I would find this book entertaining.  I was disappointed for a variety of reasons.  In addition to being a clueless heroine, Pia Thomason sleeps with one vampire at the beginning of the story, and then sleeps with another (her true mate, and the coolest guy in the book) later on.  I don't mind "off-stage" prior relationships but dealing with 2 in one book made me somewhat uncomfortable in addition to making the heroine look wishy washy.  Also, the cool vampire (Kristoff) and Pia do not resolve their troubled relationship at the end of this book, clearing the way for a sequel, but potentially leaving the reader feeling a bit irked. (Yes, I felt irked, although I am totally digging Kristoff).  The cutest part of this book is the hodge podge group of ghosts that Pia must take care of, which gives MacAlister's quirky sense of humor a chance to shine.  Kristoff is a very intriguing character, and for this reason alone I will probably read the next book in the series.  Zen and the Art of Vampires is not MacAlister's best effort, but I'm hoping that Crouching Vampire, Hidden Fang (which comes out in May 2009) will be worth the wait. Grade: B-

Pondering the future, Penelope 

Review of A Witch's Beauty by Joey W. Hill

A Witch's Beauty by Joey W. Hill

Holy Macarena! I just finished reading A Witch's Beauty, and I am having heart palpitations. I honestly didn't think that this book could best A Mermaid's Kiss, but it did! Hill is a powerful, sensual, intense writer. Mina and David are an amazing combination..beauty and monstrousness, strength and weakness, good and evil...it's all here. Mina is one of the most fascinating characters I have ever met. Her physical manifestation of the struggle between good and evil (half of her body is physical perfection, the other half grotesque) is a poignant symbol of her inner struggle to control her Dark One blood.   I usually have trouble with irritating heroines. It's a fine line for an author to create a character who is willful and prickly, while still maintaining some likability.  Mina is an incredibly well developed character and her emotional journey in this story is utterly satisfying. Although David is a wonderful character in his own right, this is Mina's story all the way. Hill's expertise as a story-teller is never more apparent than in the chapters leading up to the climatic battle scene with the Dark Ones. Boy, does she know how to build up the sickening anticipation of what was going to befall poor David (and Mina) in the Dark One's World.  I am ashamed to admit that I snuck at look at the final pages of the book to reassure myself before tackling those chapters...the awful apprehension was almost to much to bear! (I can't remember feeling that much anxiety since reading Stephen King's The Shining). Anyway, of course Hill takes her characters to Hell and back.  If I had to pick one word to describe this book and Hill's writing it would be...powerful. Wow. I am officially a Joey Hill addict (that's the sound of Amazon's CEO cackling with glee).  Grade: A+

Pleased as punch, Penelope

Valentine Contest Winner

Congratulations to "Anonymous" who chose LaVryle Spencer's Morning Glory as the most romantic book. She won the drawing for a $15 gift certificate from Amazon.  Thanks to everyone who posted...our choices ranged from Danielle Steele to Jane Austen.  I hope that you all had a romantic Valentine's Day!

A Blast from the Past: Review of Simply Love by Mary Balogh

Simply Love by Mary Balogh (2007)

A friend of mine once commented on the fact that Mary Balogh does not have a sense of humor. True, there is no humor in her historicals, unlike Amanda Quick or Julie Garwood.  Balogh's stories are serious, sometimes emotionally wrenching, and perhaps even somber in tone. But I defy anyone to find a writer whose endings are as emotionally satisfying, and whose characters are as romantic as Balogh's.  Simply Love is one of the most touching and satisfying stories I have ever read.  I cry repeatedly while reading this book.  Balogh introduced Anne Jewell and Sydnam Butler (Sydnam, I love you!) in previous books as secondary characters, and thank the good Lord, she resurrected them in this wonderful tale.  Both have been badly beaten down by the events of their lives.  Their stilted dialogue and awkward courtship blossom into something glorious and life-affirming for both of them.  The symmetry of this story, two broken souls who are able to provide each other with the will and strength to embrace life once again, is simply perfect.  My only complaint about Simply Love is that I felt bereft when I finished it.  I wanted more!  It's everything romance should be. Grade: A+

Feeling inspired, Penelope

Review of Never Been Witched by Annette Blair

Never Been Witched by Annette Blair

Let me just say, oh how refreshing it is to be reading an author whose books are getting BETTER as the series progresses, instead of steadily losing the magic (you know who you are!). Blair's voice has matured into a highly entertaining, engaging and "spell-binding" style of writing.  I simply could not put this book down.  I LOVE when that happens.  The pacing of her books is absolutely perfect.  They're fast, intense and suck the reader in with a vengeance. Never Been Witched is the story of Destiny (the final of the identical triplet witches) and Morgan, a disbeliever with hidden secrets. Honest to God, no one writes a love scene like Blair.  They are downright juicy (in a really good way!)- fun, flirty, sexy, completely original. And finding an original sex scene in romance is no small feat. Blair also weaves the emotional angle and the sexual attraction together in a totally convincing way, another challenge for every romance author.  The sweet paranormal touches (butterflies following the ghostly sister, for example), humorous language and snappy dialogue are superb.  Blair is setting a high bar for herself and future works, and I have no doubt she will rise to the challenge.  This book rocked the house! Grade: A+

Feeling somewhat witchy, Penelope

Valentine's Day Contest Closed!

Thanks to everyone who entered the Valentine's Day Contest.  Our romantic choices ranged from Jane Austen to Danielle Steele...love it!  The winner will be announced later this week.

Valentine's Day Contest

To celebrate the most holy of all romance holidays (Valentine's Day!), Penelope is running a contest this week.  What is the most romantic book you have ever read? Leave a comment with the name and author of this love-inspiring book, and you might win a free paperback novel (value of $15.00 or less) of your choice from Amazon. Be sure to leave your name/email address so I can contact you if you win.  (If you're not comfortable leaving your email in a public post, then email me directly.) Penelope thinks that Mary Balogh is the most romantic author there is, and that Simply Love may be the most romantic book of all time. Happy Valentine's Day...I look forward to hearing about your favorite books!

With a loving heart, Penelope