Jamie + Kati Review: TAKEN: The Rake and the Recluse Part 3 by Jenn LeBlanc

TAKEN: The Rake and the Recluse by Jenn LeBlanc
FORMAT: PDF
GENRE: Historical
LENGTH: 47,425 words
PUBLISHER: Jenn LeBlanc (January 17, 2012)

This is PART THREE of The Rake And The Recluse, it has been completely re edited with new scenes and new images and is being released as it was originally intended, as a six part serial novel. This is NOT a series it is a SERIAL, that means it has to be read in order.


A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part THREE brings Francine and Gideon closer than they ever imagined possible, until the unimaginable tears them apart. What will Gideon do if he loses her, this time, forever? This is the third installment of the completely revised novel, with all new material.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Where To Find Jenn:Author Site | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr (NSFW-seriously)

Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | All Romance

Go and Buy it Now!

Other Books in Serial:

click to buy for Kindle

click to buy for Kindle

coming soon

REVIEW:

Hello!

Kati: ZOMG! I somehow misplaced the first email that contained TRATR part 3. Don’t look at me like that, all Gideon glarey-eyed. I had to ask Jenn to resend and she also gave me The Gideon. But let me tell you. Forget about flipping through and looking at the pictures! It started off with an almost ruination and a half naked Roxleigh was pretty easy on the eyes at 7 in the morning.

Did you flip through or did the first page keep you from finding the rest of the pictures?

Jamie: What a way to start off Part 3! Hello Gideon! GAH! The pictures in that first chapter. For once I just started reading and every time I came across a picture I nearly died. Good thing I had my fan on.

Kati: Haha. Yup. I think I stayed on that picture for a good 5 minutes with a silly grin on my face.

Jamie: I still go back to look at and I’m not ashamed to admit it. But, anyway... PART 3! So much happens! We learn more about Gideon and Perry’s mom. And then there is the mystery of the hidden room that Shaw discovered. Plus, Perry is still flustered over his new duties as guardian to three young ladies and Francine finally reaches her breaking point. Oh, there’s just so much. What was your favorite part of Part 3?

Kati: There’s so many great parts, it’s hard to choose. I think I will have to go with:

You either need to find your way out of my bed, or I will find my way into you.

*swoon* That’s just sexy. What about you?

Jamie: Oh, I love that part. But I think my favorite is when Gideon and Perry are swimming and Perry notices some scratch marks on Gideon’s arse.

On one hand, I am your brother and this type of discussion is suitable indeed. On the other hand, I am her guardian and you should be admonished. To be blunt, I believe I should call you out. But in truth I simply want to shake your hand.

Oh that Perry, he’s such a rake.

Sexy scratches

Kati: *giggle* Oh, I’d forgotten that part. How could I forget it? There’s even a picture or two that goes with it.I feel like I might be getting ahead of myself or disclosing spoilers since we’ve read the original and this is broken down into parts.

Jamie: Its just that Perry is quite... well, just quite. He gets us all distracted. But back to the task at hand...Taken. Well, I think the title says it all.

Kati: So another 5 hearts read? I think so! New pictures, laugh out loud moments, the sexy brothers Trumbull, a shady little man who is beyond a mama’s boy and lots of cousins. I must say thought that Ms. LeBlanc, once again, keeps us on our toes giving us enough to quench our need to know more but not completely satiated. We’re still hanging on the ledge, waiting for something to take us over the edge. It’s like a miniseries, our very own   Lost in LeBlanc *wipes drool off face*... Uh, TAKEN. Yes. Francine/Madeleine is TAKEN from Hepplewort by Roxleigh. Melisand, Perry and Rox’s mother, was TAKEN from her home because the previous Duke thought she was a danger to herself. Francine’s virginity was almost TAKEN by Gideon (sheesh! Part 3 almost starts off with a bang *waggles eyebrows*)

Trapped between a Duke and a saddle

Jamie: Yes, she knows just how to keep us wanting more! I will now be awaiting the next part.


***review copy provided by author***

*Please note all pictures are property of Jenn LeBlanc. They may not be copied, reproduced or downloaded without the consent of the owner or the hounds of hell will be set upon you. Please contact Jenn if you would like to use any of these images for posts.*

Jamie + Kati Review: FOUND:The Rake and the Recluse Part 2 by Jenn LeBlanc

FOUND: The Rake and the Recluse by Jenn LeBlanc
FORMAT: PDF
GENRE: Historical
LENGTH: 31,123 words
PUBLISHER: Jenn LeBlanc (December 30, 2011)

This is PART TWO of The Rake And The Recluse, it has been completely re edited with new scenes and new images and is being released as it was originally intended, as a six part serial novel. This is NOT a series it is a SERIAL, that means it has to be read in order.


A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part two finds Francine in the world of the Duke of Roxleigh. The clashing of worlds in first installment of the completely revised novel continues as Francine finds her footing, discovers secrets about her elusive host, and learns more about herself than she ever thought possible.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Where To Find Jenn:Author Site | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr (NSFW-seriously)

Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | All Romance

Go and Buy it Now!

Other Books in Serial:

click to buy for Kindle

coming soon

coming soon

REVIEW:

Kati: Ahhhhhhh! Part 2 of Jenn's serial novel and I bet I know what you did when you got it: ogled the pictures. And squealed when you saw Perry's name. At least that's what I did.

Gideon & Francine

There are a few things I didn't notice in my first reading of the original book like the Iron Duke Taproom (a nod towards Jenn's favorite book?) or the names of the cousins (Auberry and Fallon). She's got an interesting way of putting in minute details that you may not catch while reading since you're ogling the pictures.

What about you? Catch anything non-spoiler worthy this read through?

Jamie: Well, duh. Of course I looked at the pictures first... multiple times. Then I saw Perry and I got all excited. And Amberly Shaw! I have a little crush on him.

But Perry... I love him and I love the way he and Gideon interact. Seriously, I can just see him goading his big brother and being a nuisance like any little brother should.

Kati: Oh Shaw the architect. He's got a little secret of his own.

I think this quote pretty much sums up our beloved Viscount Pianosexoverlord:

This man was the quarterback, the prom king, Mr. Popular, the ever-elusive crush who didn’t know you existed, and here he was with her, giving her all of his attention.

Jamie: That describes Perry to a T. I’m pretty sure if I ever meet him I would just giggle every time he talked. I would also probably do something inappropriate like pinch his butt.

But, I digress. Part 2 finds us being introduced to whole slew of characters, from Roxleigh’s cousins to two people that are the key to who Francine is.

Kati: *snort* Yeah. Inappropriate. I would probably throw myself at him and then demand that he play something on the piano. I’m getting ahead of myself. Totally hyping up the piano scene. But yes. The boys sure do have a lot of cousins and those two people will solve the mystery of Madeleine/Francine.

Why Your Grace. I believe you've
lost your shirt...

Jamie: Ok, enough being inappropriate, lets talk about the book. Part 2 is titled Found. What do you think is the significance of that?

Kati: Because we found Perry? But seriously, I think it refers to a few of things. 1)Remember the girl in the first part? Meggie's sister and what happened to her? 2)That poor chap Amberley Shaw gets lost in the maze and Francine helps him out. 3)Gideon finds *giggle* a way to communicate with Francine through sign language due to loosing her voice (kudos to Shaw for being awesome and knowing how to sign) 4)And the most important: who IS Francine/Madeleine.

What's your take on the title?

Jamie: I like the “because we found Perry” answer. But along with all of your answers, let’s not forget that Gideon finds that he really cares about Francine and he doesn’t want to let her go.

What about your favorite moment? I was trying to find my favorite quote but I found myself liking the whole scene. So my favorite moment is when Perry interrupts Gideon’s dream of Francine and Perry is told that he is to be drawn and quartered. Oh, that Perry.

just a tad sloshed

Kati: I like your answer. And haha. I totally agree. I think my favorite moment is near the end when Perry decides to become the guardian of the Larrabee girls and find out at there's 4 of then. He then proceeds to drink himself into a stupor.

Speaking of the end, what the heck was that all about? Definitely had me wanting and eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Jamie: Jenn LeBlanc is a TEASE! And that picture, oh just about died! And despite her picking that point to end this part I will still give this 5 stars.

Kati: Agreed. 5 stars or in this case 5 purple hearts. And yes, that picture had me flipping the rest of the pages going, "Wait, there's got to be more." Jenn's done it again, leaving us slightly satiated but hanging on to that precipice hoping to get the full blown fireworks and satisfaction.


OVERALL: Oh you guys, this Rake and Recluse Redux is such a fabulous idea. Additional scenes, gorgeous never-before-seen photos and endings that keep you coming back for the next installment. A dashing Duke with a glowering problem, a silent but headstrong 21st century girl, the quarterback Viscount brother, the architect with a secret and of course, half of the mystery of Francine Adelais Larrabee solved. It is strongly recommended that you read this serial in order. Each installment does not stand alone.


***review copy provided by author***


*Please note all pictures are property of Jenn LeBlanc. They may not be copied, reproduced or downloaded without the consent of the owner or the hounds of hell will be set upon you. Please contact Jenn if you would like to use any of these images for posts.*

Review: Warrior's Redemption by Melissa Mayhue

WARRIOR'S REDEMPTION by Melissa Mayhue
FORMAT: Paperback
GENRE: Historical romance (Time Travel)
MASS MARKET PAPERBACK: 400 pages
PUBLISHER: Pocket Star (December 27, 2011)
ISBN: 9781451640878

Malcolm MacDowylt sees himself a failed warrior, haunted by the death of the woman he married to become laird of Clan MacGahan. Neither his Viking heritage nor his claim to descend from Norse gods can restore his confidence in his ability to protect his people. His sister is held captive, her life in jeopardy, and his Magically powerful half brother wants him dead. The last thing he needs is more responsibility, but that's exactly what he gets when his Faerie mother-in-law arrives seeking justice for her daughter in the form of an enticing woman from seven hundred years in the future.

Danielle Dearmon has waited fifteen years to discover the life she is supposed to live. She just never dreamed she'd end up in the thirteenth century with a handsome Scot bent on saving everyone but himself.

With the lives of those most dear to him hanging in the balance, Malcolm sets out to battle a powerful evil magic, only to learn that the redemption he seeks exists in the arms of the woman he loves.

Where To Find Melissa: Author Site | Facebook | Twitter
Where To Buy: Amazon(pb) | Kindle | B&N(pb) | Nook | Book Depository

Go and Buy it NOW!

REVIEW:

I love Highlanders. Whether they're in their own time or ours. I love time travel romances. The rush of the past colliding with the present makes for a laugh out loud read. Hellooo! Communicating and using modern phrases that confuses the other person gets giggles out of me.

Reasons to Read This Book:

1. Highlanders. I mean, I just wanted to have this one reason and I know you'd read it because of their super awesome alphaness but Malcolm 'Colm' MacDowylt deep down inside is a big softie. His sister is held captive by his half brother, Torquil, who is super powerful (with lots of magic), his younger brother Dermid is all gung-ho about going to rescue their sister and bam! some woman falls out of the sky and turns his life upside down and inside out with her weird modern day phrases. 
2. The Modern Day Woman. Poor Danielle Dearmon. She's been leaving out milk for the faeris since she was girl and has gotten nothing. Zip. Zilch. Nada. Bupkis. Finally fed up with not hearing from the faeries (finding her greater purpose and/or destiny in life) she takes it upon herself to reach out them. During Samhain, she creates fairy circle in her living room (after spending her paycheck on expensive stones) and calls out to them. Bad idea. She wakes up in another stone circle, cold and alone. Slightly disoriented.
3. Fairy godmother. *snort* Okay. She is a faerie and the mother of Malcolm's deceased wife. She breezes back into his life and claims that she wants to see him happy. Happy in the form of a woman from the future. As Dani's companion, she tries to teach her about the time Dani is in. I have a feeling that there's something going on between Elesyria and Malcolm's brother and right hand man, Patrick.
4. Evil half brother. Not bad boy brother but evil half brother. There's a difference. Torquil was the only child of his father and mother. His father took up with Malcolm's mother and intended for Malcolm to inherit. *cue lots and lots of jealousy* It doesn't help that Torquil is magical and can wreck havoc with it. 
5. Future-seeing sister. Christiana MacDowylt is being held prisoner by her half brother Torquil since she has the gift of vision which is the only power he does not have. Malcolm tries to rescue her but she tells him that it is not meant to be. Someone else is supposed to do it and he should just leave her there. I am anxious to find out how she is rescued after reading the teaser at the end of the book.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

His accusation felt like a punch to the stomach. Here she was spending her nights battling some physical obsession with this man, and he viewed her as nothing more than punishment from the Fae.

OVERALL: Why has it taken me this long to read a Melissa Mayhue book? (no don't answer that) She's reminded me why my first love will always be Highlanders. It's not those easy access kilts or the broadsword strapped to a muscular back (Well, who am I kidding? It's that first and foremost) but the way to guard and love their women. All that alpha aggression put to use in *ahem* the bedroom. Mayhue weaves a magical tale of danger, love, laugh-out-loud moments and above all, sacrifice. I am looking forward to reading Christiana's story and am hoping to hunker down and read The Daughters of the Glen series, of which this one is a spin-off of.


***review copy provided by publisher***

eARC Review: Her Dark Knight by Sharon Cullen

HER DARK KNIGHT by Sharon Cullen
FORMAT: eBook via Netgalley
GENRE: Paranormal Romance (Time Travel)
FILE SIZE: 635KB (84,000 words)
PUBLISHER: Carina Press (November 28, 2011)
ISBN: 9781426892714

Madelaine Alexander is on a mission. When her boss sends her to the hottest nightclub in town to meet with the owner, she won't be deterred, even if that means standing in line for fifty-eight minutes in torturous heels while she'd rather be home in her pj's with a bowl of popcorn.

A Knight of the Templar, Christien Chevalier was given immortality along with the responsibility of protecting the treasure of the Templars. He's been unwavering in his task for centuries until his one true love—who died seven hundred years ago—shows up in his club, demanding his attention.

Christien couldn't protect Madelaine when they first fell in love. She was married to a lord and he was simply a knight. Now, through some unknown miracle, she stands before him again and they have a second chance. But Christien fears that Madelaine is being used as a pawn in a dangerous game, a game of good versus evil that could affect all of mankind...

Where To Find Sharon: Author Site | Twitter | Facebook | Blog
Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | Carina Press
Book Extras: Read an Excerpt

Go and Buy it NOW!

REVIEW:

A woman walks into a bar... Yeah, that would make a great joke but it's not what this book is about. Yes, a woman does walk into bar but she ends up having the shock of her life as well as meeting the one man she is destined to be with.

Christien Chevalier has lived for seven centuries and is tasked to guard the Templar treasure from getting into the wrong hands and bringing on the end of the world. In the fourteenth century, he was Templar Knight. He fell in love with the lady of the manor, Madelaine, Countess of Flandres. Alas, he was too noble to make a move and lost her at the hands of the overreaching, jealous castle whore.

Seven centuries later, Lainie Alexander walks into his nightclub and he thinks he's seeing things. What terrible, horrible, no good being would reincarnate her to taunt him? After all these long years of almost becoming at one with his sad,lonely, empty heart, Madelaine or someone that looks exactly like her is here.

Madelaine or rather, Lainie Alexander is sent to the nightclub by her mean girl boss Giselle to get papers signed. What the french toast? Really? Couldn't Giselle send her at a more reasonable time? Good grief! The bouncer tells Lainie that he knows nothing about an appointment and she has to go to the end of the line. Fifty-eight minutes later and twenty dollars poorer, Lainie finally gets into the club. As she's trying to find Chevalier or anyone who knows where he might be, she gets grabbed by some drunk guy. *insert clopping of horse hooves and some trumpeting* Enter the dark knight. I mean, a knight in an exquisitely cut suit.

Christien is momentarily shaken after seeing Lainie, rescuing her and flipping through the papers that he's supposed to sign. At first, he wonders if Lainie is working for Etienne Lucheux, his archenemy. A distraction of sorts. Or perhaps to get to the treasure.

After meeting Christien, Lainie begins to have very vivid dreams of a woman who shared her name. Fourteenth century Madelaine was married to a vile count who only married her for her family connections (how typical) and enjoys punishing her for any sin she has committed. Even going as far as making up things. His punishments not only include verbal abuse but physical abuse as well and god help her, Madelaine endures each and every one. The only light in her life is Christien. She is drawn to him from the moment their eyes meet and he to her. Madelaine's husband's right hand man has a thing for her and he's lude, crude and sweet jaysus, I wanted to call him out. So gross. Can I say that he's villainously vile?

Christien wants to protect Lainie, even going as far as having her move in with him after she gets pushed in front of a car. Lainie is only working for Lucheaux because of the pay. Her father is in an expensive nursing home after losing it when the government took their farm away and she also has student loans to pay. The lure of the paycheck is too great.

Christien must find a way to convince Lainie that she is his Madeleine, reincarnated. He must also find a way to keep her and the Templar treasure safe. Should all seven seals break, hell would break loose (literally). With danger at every turn (whether it's in the fourteenth century or the twenty first) Madeleine and Christien are destined to be together. She is his destruction and salvation. She holds the key.

Trading in their mortality, Lucien (Madelaine's husband's right hand man) and Giselle (the overreaching, jealous castle whore) want to be come one of the horsemen of the apocalypse. Lucien, to this day is still attracted to Madeleine (in the form of Lainie) and Giselle is still as jealous as ever.

As the danger closes in, Christien must protect Madeleine at any cost even if it means re-living seven centuries twice and convince her that they are destined to be together. Lainie must come to grips that she is indeed the Madeleine she keeps dreaming about. The dreams are vivid, in freaking techinicolor and surround sound. Christien has her convinced when he tells her things from her dreams that she hasn't told him. When all is revealed, Christien and Madeleine may have to sacrifice their love. Again.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

"I am but a man who has lived long and seen much. I've known joy and despair, love and heartache, peace and war. I've been to hell and back and lived to tell about it. I can't promise that when I look at your I don't see her. I can promise that if you allow me I will protect you with all the resources at hand. I will cherish you, respect you and honor you."

OVERALL: OMG! What a well written, heart breaking read that beautifully blends the past and the present into a giant rollercoaster of emotion that had me sobbing like I'd just lost my nearest and dearest. I was stunned. Utterly floored. Holy carp! Ah-mazing. I can tell you that I will be reading more Sharon Cullen.

***review copy from Netgalley***

Jamie + Kati Review: FREEDOM: The Rake and the Recluse Part 1 by Jenn LeBlanc

Just a note before we start: This is our first joint review and we will be doing this for every part of Jenn LeBlanc's serial novel: THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE because we love it so much. Not because of the pictures (oh, who are we kidding?) but because of the wonderful story. We get to re-live it again with extra scenes AND finally find out what happens to Perry. But we are getting ahead of ourselves.

FREEDOM: THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE by Jenn LeBlanc
FORMAT: PDF
GENRE: Historical
LENGTH: 28,449 words
PUBLISHER: Jenn LeBlanc (December 20, 2011)
ISBN: 9780981672076

A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part one brings Francine to the world of the Duke of Roxleigh, clashing worlds in this first installment of the completely revised novel, with all new material.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Where To Find Jenn: Author Site | Twitter | Facebook | Tumblr (NSFW-seriously)
Where To Buy: All Romance | Nook | Kindle
Book Extras: Read an Excerpt

Go and Buy it NOW!

REVIEW:

Duke Hottie McHottiepants

Jamie: It’s here! It’s here! Let me tell you, when I opened my email and found The Rake and The Recluse Part 1 I just about fell off my bed. I wasn’t expecting it to be there. So of course I did what every good book reviewer would do... I looked at the pictures. Multiple times.

What did you do when you found TRATR in your email?

Kati: What I did with the original...flip through for the pictures and was not disappointed. Oh and I skimmed through looking for new scenes before re-reading the whole thing. I died after I saw the added scene. Then I emailed Jenn and squeed and begged for pictures to go with the review.

It took me about 2 hours to read it completely and was left wanting. Although I do like where she left off to seguay into the next part.

What about you? How long did it take you to read fully minus the oglage?

Jamie: Probably about 2 hours. After I looked at the pictures I emailed Jenn about the very, very last picture (the one with the wet, naked man) and told her that I knew who that was because I know my naked men chests.

Then I looked at the pictures backwards... because, well I couldn’t stop myself and came upon THE SCENE with Gideon and his *giggle*, well maybe I shouldn’t tell. I will say that it’s amazing.

So, 2 hours really reading and I wanted to read more. I mean, I’m desperate for Perry’s story but I do love Gideon.

Kati: LOL. Shhh... it's a secret. Everyone will find out when they read it. It never gets old. *sigh* Yes, Perry who I have decided to dub Viscount Pianosexoverlord. Seriously, that scene is totally infamous and Perry's book hasn't released yet!

Jamie: I know! Oh, piano sex *sigh* Anyway... let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Perry will come soon *snicker* but now we have Gideon. Have you seen the new cover? Hello sexypants!

Kati:

Francine

Oh yes. His ass-ets are all glowy and stuff. I love the riding crop picture and making it the cover was great. I am slightly partial to the original. It's in a frame and I'll be hanging it on the wall soon. I do love the new cover because this first part touches quite a bit on how Gideon (Duke Hottie McHottiepants) goes for bent for leather rides to de-stress or get his mind off Francine.

What do you think about the title? FREEDOM... Can we share the quote about it from the end-ish of the story?

Jamie: Oh, the riding crop! How I love thee riding crop. But, I digress. I think Freedom is a perfect way to describe both Francine and Gideon. Here you have Francine who is basically trapped in this world that isn’t hers. Then you have Gideon who is almost trapped in a world of his making. He’ a “recluse” yet you can almost feel him wanting to break free... hence the riding crop and horseback riding.

She was finally ready for her independence. Funny. My freedom come with such physical restrictions.

Kati: *snort* Yes. I blame our riding crop obsession on Jenn. On a more serious note, I like how you phrased how Francine and Gideon feel. I think for Francine, she’s been stuck in a mindless job (she is after all waiting on a promotion before she gets whisked away in a cab and ends up almost trampled by Roxleigh’s horses) and this sudden change of time and place gives her the chance to do what she wants. As for Gideon, he’s the heir and he’s got a lot to live up to. He freaking gave up his mistress and is now on the hunt for a wife.

Let’s talk about Hepplewort.[aside: Hepplewort is Madeleine's betrothed. She's run away from him and he's set his dogs upon her. And that is where the story takes its turn. As Francine gets thrown around the taxi she's taking to work, Madeleine runs in front of a curricle driven by none other than the Duke of Roxleigh] How creepy is he? Seriously. I can’t wait to find out how Jenn decides to off him or at least let him get his comeuppance.

Jamie: I hate the man! Detest him! I would spit on him if I could. Seriously, he needs to like get a beating.

Kati: I wish he would get run over by a curricle. How fitting would that be? But I’m getting ahead of myself trying to predict his end.

Jamie: I think he should get sent to the 21st century and get hit by a bus. But again, let’s not ahead of ourselves.

Gideon and Francine

Kati: Haha. That would be totally poetic. Or maybe the taxi Francine was in.

Jamie: I like it!

Kati: But again, we’re getting ahead of ourselves. It’s so hard not give spoilers or speculate since we've ogled, er, read the original book.

Jamie: True. So you know what I think? I think everyone should go and buy TRATR Part 1 and catch up. I mean, hello! It’s a great story and it comes with pictures!

Kati: Oh yes it does! Tastefully done. Not porn-y. So for those of you looking for something like that, this is not a book for you. Pervs!

What’s your favorite quote from TRART Part 1?

Jamie: Well.. that’s hard but I’m going with this:

Compose? Her gaze snapped to his. “Compose this, jackass!” she yelled, ignoring the searing pain that knifed through her throat and head as she flipped him off.

And yours?

Kati: Ah! No fair. That’s my favorite.

Jamie: Ah, great minds think alike.

Kati: But I did like this quote about Gideon:

“He was not ruled by emotions, but by propriety, principle, and grace.” 

So out of 1 to 5 hearts. How shall we rate Jenn’s TRATR Redux Part 1?

Jamie: Only 5? Well, then 5 it is.

Kati: Yes. 5 hearts because of that extra scene. Holy crap! Too bad there’s not a tastefully done picture of that. lol.

Jamie: I would die. It would be a great way to go though. She should ask Derek [Roxleigh] to pose for it.

Kati: Yes. But then you wouldn’t be able to read Perry’s story. At least stay alive for that.

Jamie: Ah, yes. Perry.*sigh* So is there anything else we should mention?

Kati: There’s so much but that would be giving spoilers and sneak peeks. I am looking forward to Part 2 and where Jenn ends that one. The pictures of course help enhance the story or slow your reading down. Depends on how you look *giggle* at it. Warning: You may spend a large amount of time flipping through the book just for the pictures. Remember, there are words; there is a story. *sigh*

Overall: As you can see, we are in lust with this book. Have been for quite some time. Basically, Part 1 sets up the stage for Francine getting transported to the nineteenth century, loosing her voice, having tingly feeling for Gideon Alrick Trumbull, the tenth Duke of Roxleigh and introducing an icky creeper character who is betrothed to Madeleine (the woman whom Francine takes the place of). Even his name sounds slimy and totally shady: Hepplewort. He plays a greater role later on. So many great characters are introduced and some will play a greater role later. But we are getting ahead of ourselves. Again. So we'll leave you with that.

***review copy provided by author***

*Please note all pictures are property of Jenn LeBlanc. They may not be copied, reproduced or downloaded without the consent of the owner or the hounds of hell will be set upon you. Please contact Jenn if you would like to use any of these images for posts.*

Review: The Bride Star by Tracey Jane Jackson

THE BRIDE STAR by Tracey Jane Jackson
FORMAT: Kindle
GENRE: Historical Time Travel
FILE SIZE: 455 KB (about 86,000 words)
PUBLISHER: Tracey Jane Jackson (October 22, 2011)

Rayne Green, is a major recording star and on tour to promote her latest album. A hard-hitting, no nonsense woman, Rayne does not make friends easily and trusts no one, except her best friend, Shaye.

After a concert in Chicago, an old friend from high school lures her to an abandoned building under false pretenses. She is not prepared for what he does next, and in her attempt to escape, her world goes black.

Samuel Powell is the head of an exclusive prison, housing the worst of the worst in the country’s treasonous realm. He is called back to the prison one night to find a woman dressed as a prostitute and causing a general ruckus.

Despite her attempts to explain who she is to Sam, he doesn't believe her and Rayne is resigned to finding a way back to the future, but Sam will not give her up.

Once the truth is revealed, will he be able to convince her to stay? Will she finally want to stay?

Where To Find Tracey: Author Site | Twitter | Facebook | Blog
Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | Smashwords
Book Extras: Read an Excerpt 

I really liked it.

Other Books in Series (click on covers for excerpts):



REVIEW:

An interesting concept of a room in an abandoned building as some sort of time portal taking the person into the midst of the Civil War. It's what I would call a "clean romance": lots of hot and heavy kisses, a brush of the hand, a half lidded stare or two or three, some wicked grins but when it comes to The Sex, fade-to-black.

Rayne Green is a total rock star. Literally. She plays for millions of fans every night and is on tour with sold out concerts. An old friend from high school shows up one night after a show and wants to hang. Rayne's friend Shaye doesn't think it's a good idea but hey, Rayne can do whatever she wants. Bad idea.

The friend takes Rayne to an abandoned warehouse where it's said that it's haunted and people disappear from it. Rayne is a bit leery but it's with an old friend. How bad could it be even if two girls have mysteriously disappeared from there? Said friend spikes her water with something and tries to take advantage of her. Mustering enough strength to knee him where the sun don't shine, she stumbles around trying to find a way out. Entering the door that she shouldn't go in, she notices it's been untouched for ages and blacks out.

Rayne wakes up in the street and gets mistaken for a whore. Two icky men try to have their way with her but she gets away. She's thrown into jail for causing a ruckus and selling her wares in the street. Being a twenty-first century woman, Rayne takes offense. Where in the heck is she?! All these people wearing period clothing eyeing her like she's totally inappropriate. Well, dressed in skintight clothing might do that.

Enter the handsome Samuel Powell. He doesn't know what to make of this woman. His friend's wife comes to the rescue. She's also from the future and is one of the girls who disappeared. She seems well adjusted and okay with living in a time where there are no proper bathrooms and women were supposed to defer to their husbands. Rayne meets a few more people from the future but she still seems skeptical. If she is trapped in the middle of the Civil War, she wants to go home. Whatever it takes. But her attraction to Sam soon makes her question whether she wants to go back to her time or not.

Sam is smitten with Rayne from the first moment he sees her. Fiery and outspoken, she challenges him at every turn. Sam wants to show Rayne around and he won't take 'no' for an answer. Rayne thinks- 'what could it hurt?' She might as well see the sights and sounds of the city while she's here and everyone is trying to figure out how to get her home. As the days drag on waiting for an answer, Rayne falls into a comfortable routine with Sam.

Sam knows that there's something that Rayne isn't telling him. Something is off and why does she keep insisting that she 'go home'? Her manner of speaking and slip of the tongue makes him a bit suspicious. He tries to get her to let him in. He tells her that they're getting married. Yup, no 'will you marry me?' Just all out-- 'we're getting married'. At first, Rayne is a offended. Who did this guy think he was telling her they're getting married? They haven't known each other long enough and she's not willing to tell him everything.

All the other time travelers accept Rayne as part of their ever growing family. When each one of them first meets Rayne, they freak out. There's a rock star among them! During gatherings, they get her to sing some of her songs. Sam knows something is off because how could these people he's known for a while know things about Rayne that he doesn't know and they've only known her for a short time.

Rayne must tell Sam who she is, where she's from and why she needs to go back home before she falls more in love with him. Sam must convince Rayne to stay with him after finding out everything.

FAVORITE QUOTE: 

Victoria closed the door and leaned against it. "You've been transported back in time."
"Like as in, time travel?" Rayne let out a nervous laugh.
Hannah nodded. "Yes, time travel. You've been sent back in time."
"Funny...I don't see a Delorian parked outside."
Hannah giggled. "Thing Kate and Leopold, rather than Back to the Future."

OVERALL: It's been a while since I've read anything past the Regency era and jumping in to the middle of the Civil War and a book series was a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed reading this book and made me want to go back and read the previous ones but I found it a bit lacking. At least in the intimacy department. Jackson takes the same route as Stephenie Meyer when it comes to The Sex. (no broken headboards or floating feathers) Full of hot and heavy kisses, some intense staring, quite a few shouting matches and fade-to-black sexing with many laugh out loud moments. It's a sweet story that will literally sweep you off your feet and into a different time. Rayne and Sam must work out their huge differences and allow themselves that happily ever after they both deserve. The Bride Price (first book in the series) is floating around the Kindle so I will be reading it to see how it all began.

***review copy provided by author***

eARC Review: Knight of Runes by Ruth A. Casie

KNIGHT OF RUNES by Ruth A. Casie
FORMAT: eBook via Netgalley
GENRE: Historical Romance (Time Travel)
FILE SIZE: 1090KB (92,000 words)
PUBLISHER: Carina Press (November 14, 2011)
ISBN: 9781426892585

England, 1605

When Lord Arik, a druid knight, finds Rebeka Tyler wandering his lands without protection, he swears to keep her safe. But Rebeka can take care of herself. When Arik sees her clash with a group of attackers using a strange fighting style, he's intrigued.

Rebeka is no ordinary seventeenth-century woman—she's travelled back from the year 2011, and she desperately wants to return to her own time. She poses as a scholar sent by the king to find out what's killing Arik's land. But as she works to decode the ancient runes that are the key to solving this mystery and sending her home, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic and powerful Arik.

As Arik and Rebeka fall in love, someone in Arik's household schemes to keep them apart, and a dark druid with a grudge prepares his revenge. Soon Rebeka will have to decide whether to return to the future or trust Arik with the secret of her time travel and her heart.

Where To Find Ruth: Author Site | Twitter | Facebook
Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | Carina Press
Book Extras: Read an Excerpt

DNF

REVIEW:

Unfortunately, I didn't finish this book. Oh my god. This is the first book in a while that I didn't finish. I stopped at 32% because I couldn't take it anymore. The beginning was just so slow. It goes something like this:

Rebekah: "Oh, I'm going to England to do some research"
*ring ring*
George: "Hullo! You're the last remaining heir to Fayne Manor. Yay you!"
Rebekah: "Uh, I don't think so. You've got it all wrong."
George: "Uh, I think so. This old lady that I've known all my life said that you were and you've got to finish what she started. I will lure you with promises of an ancient line, dusty old papers, a super secret library and something to help you in your research."
Rebekah: *thinking* "Well hell, why not? A super secret library you say? It could help me with my research. Darn you for finding my weakness."

A few days later...
Rebekah: "Whoa! What a place."
George: "I knew you'd like it. Please make yourself at home. Have some delicious scones and clotted cream."
Rebekah: "Don't mind if I do. I'd like to explore."
George: "Of course you may. I just need you to sign these papers."
Rebekah: "Okie dokey artichokey."

Then Rebekah moves into the cottage where she'll be staying. A group of tourists come by, she's intrigued and follows them. They're headed to some sort of cave or something or other. Rebekah gets curious. Oh, she's got some sort of amulet thing and it's probably magic because the cave begins to shift and blur and she can't move. She falls through some vortex or other because that's what all time travelers go through.

*cue Doctor Who music* doo doo dooooo (that's all I can use because anymore and I'd have to pay royalties)


It's like Alice down the rabbit hole. She ends up rolling down a mountain, gashing her leg, collecting scrapes and bruises. But she's prepared. She's got her walking stick and her pouch of emergency goodness. Somehow, her skirt tore and it's gotten shorter. Anywho, she must find her way back to the Manor but it's gotten dark so she sets up camp. Then an old man finds her and he's got some sort of 6th sense. Knows she doesn't belong.

Dun dun dun! Enter alpha hero. He takes Rebekah and the old man back to the Manor.

Arik: "What is the meaning of this? Who are you? Why do you defy me?"
Rebekah: "Okay, you guys can stop staying in character. I know this is a reenactment of sorts."
Arik: "Woman. Do not speak as if you are an equal. I have a reputation as lord of the manor to uphold. You WILL do as I say."
Rebekah: "Whatever. *notices the sign for Fayne Manor and pulls out camera* WTF? This can't be right. Why is everything dead? It wasn't like that when I got here. *realizes she may have time traveled* No effing wayyyy! I'm just dreaming. It was the long flight."

Enter some hooligans trying to kill Arik and his men. *war cry Braveheart style*

Rebekah goes all badass because she's a freaking ninja. She takes the attackers out, left and right with her Walking Stick of Pain.

Rebekah: "Go with the music. Let it flow through you."

Arik arrives from killing all the other hooligans and sees Rebekah going all ninja on the remaining attackers.

Arik: [aside] Who is this woman who wields the Walking Stick of Pain? *clears throat* "Ahem. Why did you not follow my orders. What the hell are you doing? You could have been killed."
Rebekah: "Look here you imbecile. I've got it under control. I know how to fight. Gah!"

Then they make their way towards the manor. Full speed ahead! Oh noes! Water crossing.

Arik: "Well, the bridge has been tampered with, we need to make a makeshift bridge. Woman, you ride with me."

Arik pulls Rebekah on his horse. Some tingling happens, sexual attraction and then it's all over. Darn!

Overall: I won't do a play by play of the rest. It just wasn't for me. I thought I would like it since it was a time travel and well, I love me some Highlander pie but this book started off too slow with too much architectural description, some boring exchanges between Rebekah and everyone she meets and Arik didn't capture me at all. He was just there. And there's someone being all Edward-Cullen-in-the-corner creepy that Rebekah knows is there but can't figure out who. I wanted to stop at 10% but continued on thinking it would get better because you know, some books do that. They start off a little slow but then the heart pounding action grips you and pulls you in. Yeah, at 32% I just had to stop. I couldn't go on. This is a sad day indeed. A very, very sad day when I can't finish a time travel romance. I wish Ms. Casie the best.

***review copy from Netgalley***

Review: The Rake and the Recluse by Jenn LeBlanc

The Rake and the Recluse by Jenn LeBlanc
Format: ePUB
Print Length: 378 pages
Publisher: Iris Photo Agency, LLC (April 20, 2011)
Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.

How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Buy it Here: Jenn's Site| Kindle | Nook | iBook | Amazon Paperback 

I loved it.

Review & hot pics after the jump:

Ashley March featured Jenn LeBlanc on her blog. And whichever author Ashley features, is always a good one. 

Jenn's book The Rake and the Recluse is literally a work of photographic art. Within the pages of this book, there are gorgeous, heart stopping pictures that help the story along. (Or is it hinder? Oogle at your own risk.) Confession: I read the first 2 chapters of this book and then flipped through all the pictures. Yes, I may or may not have flipped through more than once. *sigh*

It's like a picture book for adults (not those sissy ones that your mother has on display on the coffee table). Note of caution: you may just end up drooling over the pictures instead of reading the story. Heck, go ahead! 

1 Part Outlander+ 1 Part Jane Eyre= Me, Lost in LeBlanc™ 
I spent a week (yes, A WEEK) on this book. It might be mostly due to the fact that I flipped through it 8 times just drooling over the pictures. Within those 8 flip throughs, I read the story. The concept is GENIUS! I mean, who hasn't wanted to know exactly what the author sees when she's writing her book? Who hasn't wondered what the hero REALLY looks like? Well, wonder no more. Ms. LeBlanc takes us into her vision, complete with pictures.

TEN REASONS TO READ THIS BOOK:


1. These pictures:



2. Gideon Alrick Trumbull, the 10th Duke of Roxleigh is a delicious slice of 19th Century brooding, tortured, anti-social, perfectly sculpted (look at the pictures!) specimen of a romance hero. After his mother passed away, he watched his father practically will himself to death. He is the picture of absolute propriety. He has let his mistress go and is ready to take on a wife. Until he meets Francine.

3. Francine Larrabee is an outspoken (even when she looses your voice after waking up in 19th century England), fiery, hardworking, independent 21st century girl. She hopped from foster family to foster family after the parents died, and all she has as a reminder was a trust fund set up in her name and her father’s thesis journals. Sometimes, she doesn’t feel like she belongs. Well, dear Francine, today is your lucky day. Get in the cab, head to work to make the biggest presentation of your life, and end up in 19th century England.

4. Peregrine Trumbull, Viscount Roxleigh or Perry to all his nearest and dearest. Perry is Gideon’s younger brother. He has all the best lines. He is charming, funny and always knows what to say when things get tense. He is easy to fall in love with.

5. The Love Story:
This is the love story between a 21st century girl and her 19th century Duke. Girl is running through the woods, steps out in front of a fast moving curricle and horses, and Duke almost tramples her. Girl passes out, Duke takes her in, she wakes up and freaks out. Who, what, when, where? Girl realizes she’s not in Denver anymore. Is this is some sort of sick cosmic joke? Cue in the brooding, green eyed hero. Instant connection! He doesn’t know what to do with her, she doesn’t understand all the rules of his society. They flirt, they spend time together, she teaches him sign language, she turns his life upside down and side ways. They begin to fall in love and then, twist! Enter the villain. He’s here to take back his fiancee (Madeleine) per order of his crazy mother. Twist! Madeleine (Francine) and her 2 sisters are now wards of Perry since the Larrabees signed them over. The Duke falls HARD for Francine, vice versa and that dear reader is where I will let you find out what happens next.

6. Lord Hepplewort is The Big Bad. Sort of. He is Madeleine’s (Francine) betrothed. He has been betrothed to her since she was like 10. Gross! He is a volatile mama’s boy. His mannerisms remind me of the King of Portugal from The Tudors, and I picture him looking a bit like Wormtail from Harry Potter. You can’t help but root for his comeuppance. Hopefully by Gideon. Better yet, hope it's by Francine.

7. Madeleine Adelais: Not much is said about Madeleine, although she opens the story. She is being chased through the woods by a man and his dogs. As she steps out in front of a fast moving curricle and horses, she blacks out. (Are you getting the connection between her and Francine?) She has 2 younger sisters and her parents have sold her off to Hepplewort. It is assumed she has taken Francine’s place in 21st century Denver.

8. TIME TRAVEL!: It would’ve been awesome if she had a blue police box. But sadly, that is not the case. According the Francine’s father’s thesis journals, “certain people within the family were born at the wrong time, and the universe was endeavoring to return them...when they should have lived..should have lived with.” So I suppose Francine’s method of time travel is in a yellow cab. The cab breaks for an overturned delivery truck and somehow, she wakes up in someone else’s clothes, in a different time.

9. This guy. He is the Duke of Roxleigh. This is what the hero looks like. What a change from trying to create a picture of the hero in our minds:

10. The End. I will not spoil it for you. That is all.

Favorite Quote: "'You either need to find your way out of my bed, or I will find my way into you,' he growled."

Overall: I don't recall ever reading a time travel book. Ok, I lied, I attempted to read Outlander by Diana Gabaldon and I couldn't get into it.(It might have been the fact, the book was long.) With this book, it was easy to slip into this world where a girl who didn't feel like she belonged anywhere, found her place in a different time. On some days, I feel like that girl. I feel like I was meant to have a season and am a couple centuries too late. It was easy to fall in lust with Roxleigh (because I like my heroes broody) but it was easier to fall in love with his brother, Perry (because he had all the best lines).Well, Ms. LeBlanc, I've got to hand it to you. This is such an amazing concept for a book. I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us with Perry's book. 

*This book was given to me by Ms. Jenn LeBlanc to review. And then I broke down and bought the book for my Kindle since the EPUB file wouldn't go on my Kindle. Thanks Jenn for the book and for allowing me to post some pictures.*

**Variations of this review can be found on Goodreads, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.**

***Please note: All pictures belong to Jenn LeBlanc. If you would like to use any of these pictures please contact her: Jenn.K.LeBlanc (AT) gmail (DOT )com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED NO COPYING, DOWNLOADING, or REPRODUCTION without the express permission of the owner***