Book Description
"Miss Emily" takes her position as the standard for all that's proper very seriously. Hired by the aristocracy to train their young ladies in proper ettiquette, she knows it is even more important that she not put a single toe out of line. Of course, all her rules were much easier to follow before meeting the handsome older brother of her latest charge. Now that she's being put to the test, will Emily learn that some rules were meant to be broken...especially when it comes to affairs of the heart?
Customer Reviews:
Great Book.......2007-09-20
I got this book based on the possitive reviews and was not disappointed. Loved it! The quiet and efficient Miss Dove's transformation was believable and touching. She changed not to catch a man, but to please herself. The hero, Harry was a complete jerk in the beginning. I was amused by his utter bafflement at the change in Emma. I felt that both characters grew enough to deserve their happy ending...together.
Delightful, witty and warm, We could rave about this for hours........2007-08-08
It's the late Victorian era and whoever said that women don't have the self-discipline to be part of the workforce is about to be proved spectacularly wrong in the 1st installment of Laura Lee Guhrke's Girl Bachelor series. Emmeline Dove is fairly happy with her life, she's the secretary to Viscount Harry Marlowe, a position of trust and responsibility, the only cloud on her horizon is her inability to get Harry to publish her books on etiquette, well that and the fact that she has to buy presents for his numerous discarded mistresses. For Harry life is a great deal more pleasant, thanks to the super efficient Miss Dove his business runs perfectly smoothly and if he could just get his mother and sisters to stop trying to marry him off again his personal life would be just as good. So when Emma discovers that Harry has been less than honest with her when it comes to evaluating her novels, well, she's had enough and years of buried resentment and repression comes rushing out and before you can blink, she's handed in her notice and gone to work for the enemy. Well!! To say Harry's astounded would be an understatement, and you'll laugh at the lengths he goes to to get this new, outspoken, strangely seductive Emma back. This is a wonderful romance filled with a relationship between two strong characters that aren't afraid to fight for what they feel they deserve.A definite keeper!!
Fun!.......2007-07-26
What a surprise! I am not a big reader of romances but I really liked this one. The story zipped along and I liked the hero and the heroine. Other reviewers have described the plot so I won't do that here, except to say that I really liked the fact that the heroine had a profession. The only thing I didn't like was that the Viscount behaved a bit like a petulant schoolboy (i.e. "Dammit you won't sleep with me! I'm leaving." And then she chased after him and basically gave in. I felt like he could have been a bit more patient, maybe teased her more, since he is supposed to be so experienced. But overall I liked this book and thought it was a lot of fun. Great read for a plane ride!
And Then He Kissed Her- A Joyfully Recommended Title.......2007-07-24
Girl bachelor and secretary to publisher Viscount Marlowe, Emmaline Dove has a dream beyond buying gifts for her employer's latest paramour. Emma wants to write etiquette books. With more than one attempt refused by Harry, Viscount Marlowe, Emma has hopes that her latest offering will meet his approval. When she discovers that Harry hasn't even read her books before turning them down, including her most recent submission, Emma becomes furious and quits her job.
Harry would prefer being skinned alive to being forced to read etiquette books and he's sure there is no place for them in the marketplace. Astonished that his sedate secretary would leave his employ without notice, Harry finds that he has misjudged Miss Emmaline Dove. Harry soon learns that there are people who enjoy Emma's etiquette lessons after she is hired by a rival publisher. And that's not all he's misjudged. Harry is shocked to discover there is nothing sedate about Emma at all. In fact, in his arms, Emma is passionate, very passionate!
I made the mistake of attempting to read a few pages of And Then He Kissed Her before going to bed. As the sun was beginning to rise, I happily finished this delicious love story. I just loved the starchy Miss Emmaline Dove and the naughty Viscount Marlowe. I loved watching the two fall in love. I loved the time period And Then He Kissed Her is set in. I loved the heat Emma and Harry create. I loved the vivid details of the story, from the description of Emma's flat to Harry and Emma's trip to the chocolatier. I couldn't put this book down!
I found And Then He Kissed Her fresh, entertaining and truly delicious. And Then He Kissed Her by Laura Lee Guhrke is a highly recommended read!
Annmarie reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed
Eh.... okay.......2007-07-21
I didn't much care for this one. It was okay, I suppose, but the storyline was a little too loose. And the hero goes from not thinking anything at all about the heroine (except that she's a fabulous secretary) to lusting after her... in the span of about two seconds. She hadn't changed her appearance; what made him suddenly just have to have her? Wasn't quite believeable in my opinion.
Book Description
Everyone in society knows that the marriage of Lord and Lady Hammond is an unhappy one. Everyone knows they have barely spoken to one another in over nine years. But what no–one in society knows are the reasons why ...
Lady Viola Courtland was a romantic and impulsive young girl when she fell instantly in love with the handsome and dashing Viscount Hammond. Unbeknownst to Viola, John Hammond had already given his heart to the only woman he would ever love – his cousin's wife – but he was in dire financial straits and desperately needed to marry a wealthy heiress. In Viola, he thought he had found the perfect woman – beautiful and rich with a sweet nature. But Viola was neither practical nor sensible when it came to marriage, for she fully expected her husband to love her and was determined to settle for nothing less. Soon, however, John's secret was unwittingly revealed, but by then they were married and it was too late. Until one day, John finally came to his senses and prayed it wasn't too late to win back the love of his very own wife.
Customer Reviews:
After due considertion, I'm going to vote "yes" for John........2007-09-21
I first learned of the characters John and Viola Hammond in a previous Laura Lee Guhrke novel, Guilty Pleasures. I was very much opposed to the John Hammond character which I glimpsed in that book, but I went ahead and bought this book anyway. In my own private way, I was issuing a challenge to this author. I don't like reading about adultery, especially a man who seemed to be such a totally unrepentent adulterer. So - come on, Ms Guhrke, convince me he doesn't deserve for me to thoroughly dislike him. Well....
Somewhere along the way I became sympathetic toward John. He was wrong, originally in not being truthful with Viola concerning his feelings toward her and in walking away from their marriage without insisting they talk about their problems. Therein lies the rub. He was a man who could not, and I mean never, "talk" about his feelings the way women want to "talk" about their feelings. Yes, his actions after he left Viola were stupid, and hurtful, and totally wrong. But is no man allowed to change? To grow from his life experiences? I think that is called maturity and reviewers who did not watch John mature through this book were just so mad at him they couldn't allow him any leniency. It took him a long time to begin to see how his actions had an impact on women. He found it impossible to believe that any of his former mistresses could have been in love with him. For him, it was a business transaction. He was oblivious to what it meant to the women. He was callous and yes, a cad. Doesn't that make it even more remarkable that this author was able to rehabilitate and humanize this man who seemed so lost to redemption?
This book is written very much from the perspective of the male character. It was necessary for the book to be written in that way so that we could watch the incredible changes which had to take place within John's thoughts and feelings.
Viola, I had some trouble liking until later on in the book. She did not want to take any responsibility for any of the problems she and John were having. According to her, everything which happened was all his fault. Not so. If she had not made the fatal mistake of refusing to discuss how hurt she was after learning that John had continued to see his mistress while he was engaged to her, I have to believe they would have still had problems but problems which could be solved. It is portrayed in historical novels (particularly in the Regency period) that men had mistresses as a matter of course. John even told Viola later that he began at 15 to have a mistress. It was very much the accepted thing to do among their social set. Did it make it right for him to continue the relationship while engaged to Viola? No, but she acted as if he was the first man on the planet to have a mistress.
This is one of those books which you will either really enjoy or you will hate John with a passion. I disliked the adultery but appreciated this author wanting to give this man another chance at happiness. I didn't like what he had done but I wanted to see him reform, find himself, and face all his demons and try to learn to deal with them. By seeing his character formation and thought process I began to think that he honestly, sincerely wanted a second chance with Viola. How bad can that be? I think Laura Lee Guhrke should be proud of this book. Just read the reviews and see all the passion it evokes, then decide whether you can read a book focusing primarily on adultery and redemption. I hope you choose to read the book. It made me uncomfortable, it made me cry, but in the end it made me happy to think there is forgivness for mistakes made.
I loved this book and here's why........2007-09-19
I love this author and I loved this book. I'm so glad I found her and I couldn't put it down. I know some of the other reviews were a bit harsh, but I had no trouble at all understanding these characters and why their marriage was in the mess it was in. If you read enough books from this time period, you begin to really know it and understand it. John's reaction to Viola's not allowing him his 'marital rights' was normal for that day and time period. Right or wrong, it was 'the Norm'. So condemning John for what he did is not really fair. If I were Viola, I'd very likely do the same thing. Reading their story gripped my heart. I understand the reason why Viola didn't want to forgive John his infidelities, but seeing into his heart and his hurts kept me rooting for him until the very end, which, I must say blew me away it was that surprising. This book was a joy to read.
Frustrating.......2007-09-17
This book is completly frustrating. LLG is a great writer who can evoke and provoke her reader's emotions - but for this book it was alittle too much. Viola makes me feel vulnerable she is trapped in her marriage with John with no recourse. She is the sister of the Duke who overly protects her (with reason) from Rakes like John. But unfortunately, there was no real reconciliation in my mind as you cannot reconcile with a child you can only forgive him or leave him. I don't think John even realizes the scale of his ways in which he hurts women and esp. Viola who had more to lose than all his mistresses as she cannot walk away from the relationship as she tries to do so for 8 years. John is the rake that all girls have had - the football player, the musician, the rake everyone warns you to stay away from but somehow he is also the unattainable - the bad boy. So if it was modern day, all of us has made these mistakes which we would like to walk away from as we were young and it was ok but we learn from it. Not so easy for Viola as she was married to John and cannot walk away so easily - physically and emotionally. I think this book is really good - it provides a good example of adultery where everyone's opinion are different as seen by the reviews. So here is my 2 cents, I think LLG explored a very deeply emotional topic that she has a strong opinion and feelings about as do all her readers, and as Viola vents her anger I also see desperation coming through...where could she go she is married to him already? how will her relationship end? Is he a rake or just a child - and if a child, can you truly blame him? If you blame him can you forgive him? What are his motives? because he is completly selfish and childish when it comes to women? Can he even take care of people? The scene when he held Nicholas it just struck me that he was not really the father figure there but the child. John has not grown up and towards the end it seemed he knew he made mistakes but I don't think mentally he is Viola's equal or emotionally. I think Tommy Lee when I think of John - pure child as his ex-wife has said. Men like this take their pleasures and do not heed the consequences as no one calls them on it. I am not sure how I feel about this book I think a bit of sadness for Viola as she learns to coddle and cope with John and a pity for John whose child-like innocence has never matured to adulthood. I think when we learn to do things for others and not put ourselves first that is the sign of maturity.
emotionally wrenching.......2007-09-05
I found this book to be emotionally deep and very moving. Viola's pain was heartbreaking and as I read and re-read their arguments I was completely pulled in by her pain and how she gave voice to it. Especially the sword fight scene where she lays her pain completely open by telling him that she can't help but think about every woman that he has touched in ways that should have only been meant for her. It's at moments like this that I almost wanted to cheer out loud.
I thought the ending was very powerful as he was brought face to face with the anguish his behavior had caused. His inability to feel deep emotion due to the abscence of love in his childhood was sad and I felt that he needed a dramatic event to bring about a self analysis of his behavior. The author certainly provided that climax which almost had me holding my breath as the mistress collapses in tears on the stairs to his home. Bravo! At that moment I truly wondered what any of the characters were going to do. I thought this novel was well done with intense dramatic moments and dialogue.
While I am not generally interested in adultry in my romance novels I admit I was taken over by this one and felt that the hero's childhood, which seemed to lack any role models for healthy emotional relationships, made his actions while painful, real for this character.
Can't. Take. The. Adultery........2007-08-15
It was really hard to read this book because of the husband. He doesn't deserve her, he REALLY doesn't deserve her, and she, despite whatever he calls her - unforgiving ice queen and what else - has the most unbelievable patience and kindness and forgiveness on the planet. It was sickening. And that is not to say that love isn't about forgiveness, but really, if I were her, I would have shot him and been rid of him... the epilogue nearly made me sick. I can't say the writing isn't good, because Guhrke isn't a bad writer, but there's just something so distasteful about the man that it is unreasonable to like him. The last line of the book is about how a man like him could be so lucky - and really, he doesn't deserve it at all. I was left with a very bitter taste in my mouth that the epilogue just cinched, so read this at your own peril - I didn't have a taste for tolerating adultery before and definitely don't have it now.
Book Description
One of Daphne Wade's guilty pleasures is to watch the Duke of Tremore as he works, shirtless, on the excavation site of his ducal estate. Anthony Courtland is by far the most exciting and handsome man she has ever known, and she dreams of one day being able to speak with him without getting tongue tied.
Anthony, meanwhile, only sees Daphne as a hard worker on his excavation team. He considers her a plain young lady and says so in a careless remark to a friend, unaware that Daphne is outside the library door, her heart shattering to pieces. So Daphne decides she will not be so silly any longer. She begins to be tutored in the social graces, forcing Anthony to see the beauty who has been right in front of his eyes.
Customer Reviews:
My Favorite Historical Novel EVER!.......2007-08-01
I read this a few years ago for the first time and wasn't a fan. However, I gave it another chance a year ago, and I fell in love.
This romance is the most poignant and exciting I've ever read. My favorite books are always the ones where the guy doesn't notice the plain girl at first. I love how Anthony falls in love with her for who she is, and soon she's not plain to him anymore- not because she has had a makeover like in so many novels, but because he is drawn to her personality, her wit, her intellect (and her body, of course! hehe). While some couples in romance novels are attracted to each other right away, or share a kiss immediately in the book, I love watching Anthony slowly fall for her. And the fact that the romance- the kisses, and finally the "consummation"- is drawn out and not rushed makes it all the more powerful for me. I love sexual tension, and this book has it!
I've read the book over and over now, and I continue to be enthralled by the chemistry the two characters share. Now I want to read it again!
A great romance!.......2007-05-20
This was the first book I had read by Ms. Guhrke, and I loved it! She has a wonderful way of writing; in fact, she's the one who got me hooked on Regency romances! I recommend it for anyone who likes a good, sexy romance novel.
Guilty Pleasures.......2007-04-17
Delicous. Has wonderful plot. Would love to have more passion earlier in the book.
Not an "ugly duckling" story........2007-04-12
I read all the reviews posted here on Amazon before beginning to write this review and I was struck by how many referred to Daphne as an "ugly duckling" who turned into a "swan". I did not see her in this way. I thought the author did a wonderful job of describing her as a woman who was normal, like most women in the world. She was not a raving beauty but she was normal. Obviously a heroine must fall into two general catagories. She must be breathtakingly beautiful or she is plain. We as readers don't seem to give authors much leeway in describing their characters. Most people are neither beautiful nor plain, they are just average. That is were that term comes from. Daphne was normal, average. She wore glasses, but only if she wanted to see well (that is a bit of sarcasm for those of you who don't need glasses!). I absolutely loved the fact that Ms Guhrke did not make Daphne undergo dramatic changes in her appearance in order to become the object of the Duke's affection. Instead, he learned to love HER, not her outward appearance.
The Duke of Tremore was not a hard character for me to understand. It was important for me to remember the historical setting of this novel. This man held a title which gave him incredible standing. He ranked above all his peers and beneath only royalty. How could he not have an exalted idea of his place in society? This particular man had assumed the duties of Duke of Tremore while his father was still living because his father was rendered totally incapable of discharging his duties because of his grief for his wife. It is very important to remember that this young man assumed the active role of being in charge of his family at the age of 12. That had to impact his character development in a tremendous way and this author showed that to us over and over in order to make us understand his handling of Daphne resigning her position.
It was fascinating to watch Anthony court Daphne using the language of flowers. That is a subject which has interested me for a long time but this is the first work of fiction where I have been privileged to watch it work. It was very unusual, a very gentle method for allowing him to show his regard and ultimately his love for the woman he wanted to be his duchess. I just loved it. Anyone who doubts his profession of his love for Daphne missed the significance of the single, thornless red rose. This book contains sensual moments but it also contains quiet, gentle moments and I really like and appreciate that combination. I find it to be much more realistic. A relationship between two people can not always consist of physical passion. They need to connect on many levels and I feel this book did that. We were allowed to see the strengths and weaknesses of both the hero and heroine.
An eminently satisfactory read from my standpoint. It will be given a place of honor among the small number of romantic fiction books I choose to keep.
What a romance novel should be.......2007-03-27
I flat out loved this book. The interaction between Daphne and Anthony was great. It was nice to have a heroine show some backbone for a change and Daphne didn't let Anthony get away with anything. Which, of course, just intrigued Anthony all the more.
This was a beautiful love story and it was a pleasure to read.
Average customer rating:
- I LOVED THIS BOOK!
- A lovely balance of romance and adventure
- Couldn't Put This Book Down!
- Two young sailors held hostage at sea fall into each others arms
- Beautiful Story of Love, & Hidden Passion
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Ransom
Lee Rowan
Manufacturer: Linden Bay Romance
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ASIN: 1905393709
Release Date: 2007-05-03 |
Book Description
It's 1796 and not only is love between men taboo, it is punishable by death. Lt. David Archer is an officer in His Majesty's Navy and a gentleman of Regency Society. He is also hopelessly in love with his shipmate, Lt. William Marshall. David is certain that his feelings, if expressed, would be met with revulsion. Afraid of losing the strong friendship that he has forged with William, he vows to never speak of or act on his desire, promising himself to take the secret to his grave.
Although William is young, his innate talent has allowed him to quickly rise above his humble background and gain a reputation as a promising officer. The Royal Navy is his world, and in that world there is no room for anything as frivolous as romance.
Then, in a twist of fate, the two men are abducted by a ruthless pirate who finds pleasure in toying with his captives. Thrown together in close quarters and wondering if they will survive, they're are faced with some difficult choices. William struggles with his growing feelings for David and, try as he might to dismiss them, he can't. When David makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect the man he loves, the reason for it is clear and the passion that the men have denied for so long is realized for the first time. Before the lovers can have any sort of life together, they must first escape. After that, they face an even greater challenge-is their love strong enough to survive a clandestine life under the ever-present threat of the Navy's implacable Articles of War?
Customer Reviews:
I LOVED THIS BOOK!.......2007-09-18
I didn't know what to expect since I had never read anything from this author.
I was immediately taken with the story and the writing. It grabs you and doesn't let go. I didn't want to put it down and was sad to come to the end of the book.
It was nice to know there was a sequel and I have already started reading this one!
I highly recommend this book!
A lovely balance of romance and adventure.......2007-09-03
Ransom is one of the better written gay romances I've read, a love story with a delicious emphasis on the romance. The two leads are sympathetic and believable. I was fonder of Will than David, but I liked them both. Set in the 18th century, Ransom is the story of two navy men who are kidnapped and, in the course of their confinement, come to realize that what they feel for each other is a whole lot more than friendship. They risk their careers and lives by confessing their deeper feelings for each other and succumbing to a physical expression of that love. Initial awareness is primarily David's, but David has suffered enough abuse at the hands of others to believe that he is a villain himself for wanting Will as he does. In a lovely, touching scene--one of my favorites in the book--he discovers that intimacy between two men does not have to be a violent, ugly thing.
All the scenes between David and Will were sweet and real without being maudlin. I liked Will's sense of humor and his spirit and I liked David for his gentleness and the inner strength he hardly seemed to realize he possessed. Their friendship from the start had an intimate feel to it of easy-going, comfortable trust and I enjoyed the way it evolved into romantic love--gently, awkwardly, sometimes hesitantly, and always realistically. The novel has a depth to it I'd like to see in more gay romance novels--or any romance novels. The characters are fully realized, with personal histories and pursuits beyond the main plot. They're clever and dogged and brave and sometimes impulsive. They suffer doubts and take risks, all in human and understandable ways. They use their heads and even manage to listen to their hearts when the time comes. And--thank goodness--the sex scenes do not overpower the story. Instead, the scenes warm the reader with the fierce desire that erupts between Will and David. They are real men, not afraid to be tender with each other, working their way through awkward moments with a need for each other that was exceptionally well expressed by the author.
The supporting cast was vividly realized as well. I had faith that Drinkwater and the crew would be clever and resourceful, but I was especially glad to find Will, David, and their Captain as clever and resourceful in their efforts to escape. The characters do not sit and stew over their situation; they act and that adds to their appeal. It makes them worth rooting for and I rooted for them all the way through. I also felt the villain was interestingly drawn, with weaknesses of his own which were well-exploited by the heroes, especially David, who went through a harrowing time. There were one or two moments when his self-abasement was a little much, despite how understandable it was under the circumstances. Still he managed to be tough and self-sufficient in ways that made me like him better by the story's end.
The period details are superb. I haven't read much in the seagoing genre, but settings in this novel were so well drawn, every scene was a complete vision easy to see in my head. Even the terrible closeness of the cells was a vivid sensory experience. I think this is one of the author's strengths. Rowan has a great eye for the right details in digestible amounts, all the little things that need to come together to create a picturesque whole. The pace is good and there's a nice tension that propels you along to a well-done and exciting conclusion. I enjoyed the book and am interested to see what the author will do in future stories.
Couldn't Put This Book Down!.......2007-08-12
I usually do not have much patience for reading random books but almost from the start this story threw our two main characters into trouble. Once I was well introduced to the characters, which didn't take long, I could not put this book down and flew through this book in practically two days.
The story is about mostly about the development of the relationship between Lt. David (Davy) Archer and Lt. William (Will) Marshall. What starts off as a friendship will gradually turn into the obvious.
At first the story did not seem to be very explicit but I can assure you it will gradually build up. Sometimes it became repetitive, such as Davy's constant feelings of shame and guilt however it was still a very satisfying story. The turmoil of emotions certainly makes up for the lacking. The interaction was especially very touching and the story was written very well with a believable plot. I'm certainly glad I had picked up this book and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel!
Two young sailors held hostage at sea fall into each others arms.......2007-07-27
Set in 1796 at a time when love between two men was not only considered and abhorrent aberration but was punishable by death, Lt William Marsha and acting Lt David Archer are officers in the Royal Navy, and very good friends. Both are young and keen to progress in the Service, and their abilities seem certain to promise they will. However David has a problem, he has fallen in love with his friend Will, but fearing the consequences of any such admission he chooses to quell his desires.
But events intervene when along with their captain the two friends are abducted and held hostage for ransom. Imprisoned on an unknown ship their captain is held in one cell while the two young sailors are held in another. To make matters worse the good looking blond haired David proves too attractive for their captor, Captain Adrian, and is regularly taken from his cell to suffer his unwanted advances.
In their attempts to keep up their moral and maintain unity against their captor David and Will are drawn ever closer until the inevitable happens and they end up in each others arms, and more. Despite their uncertainty, they cannot deny their feelings, but how can they pursue such a relationship when the slightest hint of anything improper between them would bring ruin or worse? And if they do escape their captors, what will it mean for David if Captain Adrian's abuse of him becomes known?
The developing relationship between the two unsuspecting lovers is beautifully told, and the dangers they face as captives along with their attempts at escape keep one on the edge of ones seat, reading as fast as possible as the tension rises. But one will not want to hurry the subtly handled passages of passionate yet tender moments between the two officers; their expressions of love and concern for each other, particularly in the face of all David has endured at the hands of selfish uncaring brutes, are most endearing and moving.
Beautiful Story of Love, & Hidden Passion .......2007-05-10
This book was highly recommended to me by another avid reader. A story of love between two men who could be punished by death if found out. The story hooked me from the first page as we are given a glimpse into the tortured soul of Lt. David Archer, who had only know brutality and rape at the hands of lascivious men, but was secretly in love with Lt. William Marshall. He allowed himself to be used and abused by a by his captor in order to save William Marshall from punishment and death, although Marshall had no idea.
Excellent plot and character development and the amazing detail of ships of that era. Very realistic.
Such a gradual building of feelings, and action on board the pirate ship and the slow realization by Marshall of Archer's feelings for him.
I loved the tender,and caring feelings Marshall had for Archer and how Marshall tried to help him overcome his feelings of worthlessness,angst and self-hatred. I had to keep reading. Such a building of emotions layer upon layer throught the story kept me reading, wanting, hoping for the best for Archer. A man who always knew his duty and would lay down his life for another but especially William Marshall. It was so moving.
Book Description
A passionate, rich, and wonderfully moving romance from RITA Award–winning author Laura Lee Guhrke.
Customer Reviews:
Lovely lovely regency romance. .......2007-08-08
Dylan Moore is a tall, lean, devilishly dark composer with untamed hair and a loose grip on sanity. He's driven to despair by increasing noises in his head - presumably tinnitus - and his frightful inability to compose since the noises began with an accident. His life is a joke, a shambles. One mad night he ends up in Charing Cross Palladium, the concert hall where he conducted his first symphony. He's standing there, gun to his head, ready to blow his tormented brains out, when Grace Cheval stops him the only way she knows how: she plays her violin. In that stunning instant, for the first time in years, Dylan hears music in his head. Not the music Grace is playing, but his own music, music he hasn't written yet! And he realizes he'll live.
It takes five tumultuous years for him to find her again, and this time he's again desperate. An unknown daughter, a wilful, dark-haired child who composes music beautiful enough to make the saints weep, has been deposited at his house. Dylan didn't even know he was a father. The only thing for him to do is find Grace, and ask her to be Isabel's governess. Secretly he's also thinking if he can just get her into his house, and into his bed, the elusive music in his head might finally drown out the maddening noises still tormenting him. There's a catch. Grace was someone else's muse, and it nearly destroyed her and her family. She's not going to be selfishly used again, not even by the magnetic, urgent Dylan. Oh, this story will live in your heart long after you close the pages. A beautiful, luscious, stunning romance with unexpected humour and a deep, wild streak to enjoy. Music for your soul.
A Great Romp.......2007-07-28
For romance novel fans, this book has it all. Engaging lead characters, interesting secondary characters, humor and enough of an entertaining plot to keep you reading. This was one of the more entertaining romance novels I've read in a while. And one of the few times I didn't find myself wanting to smack the heroine upside the head for being so silly!
Unexpectedly Beautiful.......2007-03-23
I had never heard of Laura Lee Gurhke before I read His Every Kiss. Nothing I've read by her since has impressed me very much. However, His Every Kiss is a keeper. I read it years ago, and then a few years later, but I keep it in my room at all times. I could walk into my bedroom and walk straight to it even if I were blindfolded.
Dylan is a wonderfully broody hero. Grace is a little too gracious. But their good-girl/bad-boy thing works. She has not always been a good girl, and he was once something more than a bad boy. Their initial meeting will rock you. Their subsequent meetings will leave you turning pages until the end of the book no matter how early you have to be to work the next day.
You will learn some things about musical notation you may never have known before and you will hope that someday the author will write about their daughter. Hers is definitely a story that will need to be told.
A Real Romance Worth Reading..........2005-12-17
I am really pleased that I took a chance and bought "His Every Kiss" by Laura Lee Guhrke. I had never heard of this author before but, I won't soon forget her.
It has been years since I read a good novel that truly got my emotions involved and made me feel a part of the plot line. I could almost touch these characters they became so real. If you enjoy a romance novel that is not so steep in history it boggles the mind or so intense into sex scenes that you think you are involved in a soft porn movie than this book could be for you. I can truly say this is one of the top books I have ever read. And...I have read honestly thousands of romances since I was 18 years old.
You will connect with the main characters Grace Cheval and Dylan Moore. This was a beautiful story not of dukes, duchess, princes or princesses...or even high society. Instead...it was about human emotions and how you deal with love won and lost, sexual attraction, uncomfortable emotions and how to be a decent human being.
The back drop of Dylan's musical brilliance as a pianist and composer, and Grace's "fall from grace" due to running away with her first love and the repercussions from such actions will keep you engrossed from the beginning. Dylan is drawn to Grace from the first time he met her not just due to her beauty and talent as a violinist but, something deeper that draws him to her as no other woman. She allows him to hear music again after he lost it for years. Thus...she becomes critical to his world. Grace in turn is deeply attracted to him as his passion and drive is white hot but, she got burned before in this haze of intensity and doesn't want to again but, Dylan's kisses and drugging passion are hard to resist.
Lots of twists occur such as the unexpected arrival of Dylan's unknown daughter "Isabel" and how they deal with her, Dylan's medical condition of ringing ears from an accident years before and his lost musical touch, Dylan's fascination and need for Grace to be his muse and Grace's past disgrace of living in sin with a famous painter and what he did with all those nude paintings he made of her over the years. Truly, the twists and developments never end and you don't want them to.
The love scenes are happily second in this book to the great characters and story line. In romances, often the love scenes need to be hot to keep the action going but, not here.
The ending of the book is marvelously written and actually made me tear up a few times (I didn't cry...just felt the threat of tears - that's alot for me in a love story) - the writing made the emotions that real and raw you couldn't help but, be moved and pray for a happy ending.
I'm sad that their tale is now over....I say buy this, keep it, never lend it out and expect to read it again and again. Enjoy!
Some parts of this book just rip your HEART out!!!.......2005-07-25
Dylan is probably the most tortured hero I have read about in a long time. And because of this afliction (the ringing in his ears) he really is tortured. Can anyone imagine how horrible that would be and especially for a gifted composer. Grace early on saves Dylan's life by keeping him from killing himself. and that moment Dylan never forgets. When he meets her finally a couple of years later he has to have her in his life. She is so fearful of giving her heart again, especially to another artist. Her husband was a tortured painter and he became almost insane with his extremes before he died. So when Dylan asks Grace to become his newly found daughter's governess, only desperation on her part allows her to agree. The torture this man goes through, fighting his demons, not being able to compose is excrutianting to read. And truly many writers can write joy, pain and bliss and all the other emotions but when you read the part when Dylan truly lets his daughter down by exposing the worst parts of his nightly activities well it is one of the most compelling parts of any book I have read recently. You just are racked with the pain Dylan feels at what a horrible person and father he is. I absolutely could not put this book down. It is such an emotional read and Dylan and Grace are just beautiful together. I did feel the ending was a little hurried. I think this is one book that badly needed an epilogue. Perhaps if there is a book about Ian maybe we will learn how Grace and Dylan are living on. there is no known cure I do not think even now for the ringing in ears- but I would hope in the contentment of Dylan's love for Grace he will find some peace. Wonderful book!!!
Book Description
A Royal Pain...
The illegitimate daughter of a prince and a notorious courtesan, Lucia has been confined to schools and convents for most of her life. But that hasn't stopped her from causing one scandal after another. Exasperated, her royal father decides that his exquisite hellion of a daughter must be married immediately. And Sir Ian Moore, Britain's most proper diplomat, is the perfect man to choose her a groom.
Diplomacy, not matchmaker, is Ian's forte, but he vows to get Lucia married off as soon as possible so that he may return to his real duties. Yet, despite an abundance of very eager, worthwhile candidates, none is a match for Lucia's spirit and fire. And the more time Ian spends with the infuriating beauty, the more reluctant he is to marry her off. Could it be that he has already found Lucia the perfect husband...and it is Ian himself?
Customer Reviews:
A Good Romance.......2007-06-23
I read this book several months after "His Every Kiss", a novel I was disappointed in. However I was immediately intrigued when I recognized several outlying characters-really enjoyed the Duke of Tremore and his story. I enjoyed this book, because it did have a different take than most. I liked stuffy Ian, loved to read of him loosing control. Lucia was interesting, and albeit gorgeous, had flaws. Please don't give me a perfect character such as Grace from "Kiss" and expect me to care what happens to her.This book was a keeper for me.
Slightly annoying heroine and weak story ending.......2007-06-15
This is my first book by Ms. Guhrke, but I always like trying out new romance novelists. This plot line consists of a wild, head-strong illegitimate daughter of an Italian prince needing a husband as her father is tired of her misbehavior. A British Diplomat must find a British Peer for her to wed. She doesn't like any of her choices, and yes, this diplomat, Ian, turns out to be just the man for her.
I couldn't get too involved with this novel for several reasons. First, Lucia, the illegitimate daughter, is irritating (as has been mentioned in prior reviews). She is whiney and not terribly likable. I never got why Ian was attracted to her, other than the fact that she is beautiful. Second, the built up to the story climax is very subtle and somewhat tedious. The climax is also very mild, making for a rather flat story. For me, there was too much fluff at the beginning about finding a husband, and not enough focus on developing their relationship. Then when they get together, I was left feeling somewhat cheated. My last complaint was rather minor. This story is theoretically set in the early 19th century, but there was very little focus on developing the story within the historical and cultural context.
So, I've outlined the parts that bugged me, but it is a fair story, and a quick read. It would not make my all-time favorite romance novel list, but I don't regret having read it or bought it.
Thoroughly enjoyable.......2007-05-21
I read tons of novels (guilty as charged), so I'm quite jaded by overused plots and such, but I found this novel quite refreshing with an emotional Italian heroine, handsome strong hero, and quite a bit of humor throughout. I loved the contrast of wild passionate unrestrained heroine vs. stuffy uptight Englishman who try to outwit each other and watching the sparks fly. The characters were very well developed and Laura Guhrke is an excellent writer. I'm sold on her from now on! (I've since picked up the rest of the series). But I think this one is my favorite. Although the heroine is quite spoiled and arguably overly indulged/pampered, her driving the uptight diplomat crazy is quite hilarious. And her willingness to sacrifice all in the end, is the stuff of romance. I think that is what ultimately I enjoyed most about the novel, how romantic it is (read: romantic not cheesy). A lot writers today have overdone plots with the requisite love scenes, but not enough romance. This novel really feels like you've spent an afternoon eating bon bons, treated yourself to brand new perfume, lying on a featherbed. I found it sumptuous and utterly delightful. Enjoy.
because Guhrke can't write a bad book.......2007-02-17
I gave this book 3 stars because of the writing. She's No Princess had the kind of heroine I dislike most--the spoiled little girl who wants her way and won't take no for an answer. I waited a long time to read this book, picked it up at a used book store, and will return it to said store. It was okay--only because Laura G. can't write a bad book. But, the attitude of the heroine kept this from being a keeper.
THE ROYAL PAIN AND THE PROPER DIPLOMAT !!!!!!!!!.......2006-11-13
She is trouble with a capital "T" and he is just too diplomatic for words.
I just loved this book. It kept me reading for hours and I didn't want to put it down. An Italian beauty and a handsome Englishman make this one terrific read. He THINKS he has the upper hand in this relationship, but this story is a battle of wills. The book is funny and the characters are just made for each other. You will truly enjoy this book.
Book Description
The unforgettable characters from the bestseller What Goes Around Comes Around are back -- in a smashingly suspenseful tale of love, trust, and the secrets that can make or break our lives.
The dashingly handsome Keaton Lapahie has watched many of his friends do the one thing he has vowed he will never do: get married. His plan is to enjoy his retirement, open a restaurant, and remain a bachelor for life. But when he is unexpectedly put on mandatory medical leave, he decides to visit his sister and her family...not realizing fate is about to take him on a trip -- not just out of town, but toward his own heart.
In Philadelphia, Keaton is reacquainted with Dr. Meridan St. John, his sister's pediatrician. Meridan is seemingly the perfect woman -- smart, bold, and beautiful. Why can't Keaton attract her attention? He soon learns that Meridan is haunted by something in her past -- and though Keaton can read her better than anyone else, he cannot figure out the cause of her nightmares and fears. Things become even more complicated when Jacob, her jealous childhood friend, arrives in Philadelphia and threatens to expose all the dark secrets of her past. Worried that Keaton will not believe she was innocent in her situation, she does the only thing she can...run. Thus, Keaton must decide -- does he follow her, and get to the truth, or does he leave the woman he loves to her own dark nightmares?
Penetrating in language and powerful in meaning, When Hell Freezes Over is a remarkable story about how accepting the past is the only way to make a future.
Customer Reviews:
So disappointed.......2007-08-18
This book sucked on so many levels. I feel like this should have been the first one in the series, because her writing seemed to digress so much. All that and a bag of chips was damn near perfect. The following two books were just as good, but after reading this I am beyond hesitant about reading anything else she writes. It took me almost three months to read it. I felt that the characters were at times overly dramatic, and even her writing style seemed to be that of a novice rather than a published author with a couple of published books under her belt. The story line itself was good. Man, likes woman. Woman's in danger, hesitant to reveal why.... etc. It was good, but the way that Miss Lee presented it was just horrible. At one point she was almost at the top of my Authors to watch" list, now, she's not even on it. Not saying that she can't redeem herself, it's obvious that she has the talent. Maybe this was just a slip. We'll see.
Big Fan.......2007-07-05
I'm a big fan of Darrien Lee. I have read all of her books. I let a friend borrow it and never got it back. So I had to get it to add to my others. I love reading books that follow the characters. It's a great series and I wish she write another sequel or two.
LOVED IT.......2007-03-12
THIS BOOK WAS A GREAT READ, I ONLY HAVE ONE BAD THING TO SAY. I DONT KNOW WHY SHE WAS TRYING TO HIDE HER PAST FROM HIM, THEN WHEN HE FOUND OUT ABOUT IT SHE WAS TRYING TO KEEP HIM AWAY FROMHER THAT'S WHAT MADE ME MAD THE ENDING IS WHAT PISSED ME OFF BUT OTHER THAN THAT I WOULD READ IT AGAIN BUT SKIP THE LAST FEW CHAPTERS.
ASHLEY
What a story.......2007-01-08
All of D. Lee's books are excellent, but this one is my favorite, I would reccomend that you read them in order, that way you will know who's who as they are mentioned. I know there has to be a follow up to this on, focusing on Nikki and Damon.. in the meantime I will read Talk to the hand (which is unrealated to these storylines).
Page Turner.......2006-11-06
I could not put this book down. I've read all Ms. Lee's novels and enjoyed them immensely! I love that she keeps characters from the previous book coming back and I love the added twists. Keep them coming Ms. Lee.
Book Description
For Anne Olsen, new and improved is the only way to live. So how'd she fall for a secondhand man? Charlotte had the Malibu Barbie with a full wardrobe. Emily inherited a slightly used Barbie with two outfits and Anne was left with a one-armed, bald Barbie who enjoyed nudist colonies. It's little wonder that at twenty-nine, Anne drives a new car, eats only from freshly opened packages and thinks antique is a euphemism for moldy.
After growing up in the shadows of her older sisters -- one a swimsuit model, the other a pop-feminist -- Anne's personality is one part sibling rivalry and two parts VD (stands for Vague Dissatisfaction, and yes, it itches). Now she's the self-professed underachiever in the family, determined to find happiness on her own terms. But when her sister's ex-boyfriend -- seemingly perfect, potentially interested -- reenters her life, Anne's got to ask: Could she possibly fall in love with a hand-me-down man?
Customer Reviews:
Light, funny reading.......2006-07-23
Enjoyed this book for light, funny reading. Have handed it down to daughters who enjoyed it also.
Hand Me Down.......2006-05-07
I really enjoyed this book-the main character was great!!! I rooted for her grandiose plans.
A must read for younger sisters.......2006-01-28
As a younger sister of an overacheiver there were many parts of this book I could really relate to. It was funny quirky and delightfully silly. A keeper.
About sibbling rivalries, finding love.......2005-10-06
Lee Nichols's "Hand-Me-Down" centered around Anne, a twenty-nine year old who had been jumping from one job to another, one boyfriend to another, who always had a commitment problem. She was unable to stay focused or committed to one thing for long and had always been fascinated with the idea of "new" things. This was due to the fact that she had been using "hand-me-down" things from her two older sisters, beautiful Charlotte and brainy Emily. Anne constantly compared herself to her sisters, feeling inferior as she was not known for anything and had not achieved anything. In addition, she became attracted to Charlotte's ex-boyfriend Ian whom she believed still had a crush on her married sister.
This was an okay book for me as even though the book was fast-paced and at times fun, the main character Anne was a bit too whiny for me. Throughout the whole book, she was forever whining about how she was not good enough, how people overlooked her, etc etc. That being said, the book does has its funny moments which somewhat redeems itself. It's a light, and relaxing read. Not the best in this genre but just don't have high expectations.
Sometimes Hand-Me-Downs Fit Perfectly!.......2005-08-30
OK, so it might not be great literature, but Hand-Me-Down by Lee Nichols is so much fun, you won't mind that it's not. Please don't rush to judge the book by its main character's first misadventure, a silly scene involving mannequins, because what happens if you stick with the book is you'll fall a little bit in love with protagonist Anne Olsen yourself, as exasperating as she is, and you will come to appreciate Nichols' humor as well as her insight into what it can be like to be the youngest and most underachieving of three sisters-- this is my station in life, so I know!
Book Description
After his blockbuster success of Little Black Girl Lost, and Little Black Girl Lost II, Keith Lee Johnson returns with The Honeymoon Is Over. Two time divorcee, Nelson Kennard, has finally found the love of his life--so he thinks, but his fiancée, Parris Stalls, has found another lover. Parris, a drop dead gorgeous schoolteacher with a body to die for, has been patiently waiting for Nelson's ship to come in. But after four years of waiting, she began to listen to her friends who told her numerous times to leave Nelson and find a man with some money. In comes the very wealthy Shenandoah Armstrong who has a twenty year old score to settle with Nelson. The fireworks begin when Parris finds out that Nelson became the man she always hoped he'd become. She never loved Shenandoah and never stopped loving Nelson. He still loves Parris, but will he take her back after catching her in bed with Shenandoah? Or has he found another and moved on with his newly found riches?
Customer Reviews:
DAYUM!!!!.......2007-09-18
This book was drama and action packed. If you haven't read anything by this man ---you are missing out on some great books. Anything that he puts pen to is GREAT.
No Way!!!!!!!.......2007-05-05
I'm so glad I didn't buy this book it was horrible. The characters were shallow and it just wasn't realistic at All!! Come on Mr. Johnson do better!!
Gotta love it...............2007-03-24
As always i enjoy all of K.L.J. books this a good read will pass the it on i'am reading little black girl lost3 now and i already know its the BOMB keep up the good work.
Good Read.......2007-03-24
Another entertaining book by this author. He keeps you wanting to read. I have now read all seven of this author's book and have yet to be dissapointed. I can't wait for book eight, Hell Has No Fury.
Dangerously in Love.......2007-03-14
I love her so much I am willing to kill us both, is what Nelson Kennard told his self when he walked in on his ex-fiancé and her new man. Not being able to take the rejection Nelson isn't sure if he is coming or going. One thing he does know is sorry is not good enough. Moving on with his life and becoming the self made millionaire that the beautiful Parris Stall's just couldn't wait for him to become takes Nelson thru one thing after the other.
This is another Keith Lee Johnson classic; I don't think anyone will be disappointed.
Books:
- Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging: Confessions of Georgia Nicolson
- Blue Mars (Mars Trilogy)
- Cagney
- Cary Grant: A Celebration of Style
- Channels of Discourse, Reassembled: Television and Contemporary Criticism
- China on Screen: Cinema and Nation (Film and Culture Series)
- Chinese Films in Focus: 25 New Takes (World Film & Television)
- Cinema for French Conversation: Le Cinema en Cours de Francais, Second Edition
- Cinema for French Conversation: Le Cinema en Cours de Francais, Second Edition
- Cinema Today
Books Index
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