Romance
Aug 15, 2010Is This for Real Unreal?
A look in any bookstore will tell you that "unreality" is still in and isn't about to be out anytime soon. The most recent Romance Writers of America (RWA) statistics put the entire paranormal genre (the generic term RWA uses to cover most romances of this type) at 12.65 percent of all romances published in 2008, up from 11.8 percent in 2007 and nine percent in 2006. Clearly, the trend is up. (See www.rwanational.org for more information.)
Vampires, werewolves, and other shape-shifters are often primary characters in urban fantasy/others-among-us novels. Although these creatures have been a romance staple for years, the recent success of Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series should only increase overall interest—and not just for the teen market. Futuristics featuring far-flung worlds and alien cultures are holding their own, and fantasy seems to be teeming with faeries and mythical characters, often gods and goddesses, interfering with mortal lives. Time travels appear from time to time, and a few postapocalyptic romances have shown up recently. As with all romances, style and tone vary widely. Diverse and creative, these romances are often some of the most innovative out there, questioning reality and providing occasionally inspired answers.
Bardsley, Michele. Cross Your Heart. Signet Eclipse: NAL. (Broken Heart, Bk. 7). Sept. 2010. c.320p. ISBN 978-0-451-23105-5. pap. $7.99. Paranormal
Bitten and "turned" by a rabid vampire when she first moved to Broken Heart, OK, widowed Elizabeth Bretton is finally getting used to being undead. But when unseen hands try to strangle her, she begins hearing hateful voices, and she is drawn to an old grave in the middle of the night, she fears all this has something to do with a family curse—and she needs answers. And who better to help than outrageous, crude, sexy were-jaguar homicide detective Tez Jones? But he may be more dangerous—to her heart, at any rate—than her ghosts. Verdict As always, there's a lot going on in Broken Heart's haven for most of parakind, and this story more than keeps the action flowing. Off-the-wall humor, mystery, and a touch of danger add extra zing to Bardsley's latest paranormal, and fans will be delighted. Bardsley (Come Hell or High Water) lives in Oklahoma.
Castle, Jayne. Midnight Crystal. Jove. (Dreamlight, Bk. 3). Sept. 2010. c.416p. ISBN 978-0-515-14836-7. pap. $7.99. Futuristic
Plagued by nightmares after exploring a strange psi-disorienting mirror maze in the ancient underground ruins and fearing its instability could destroy Harmony's infrastructure, Adam Winters, new boss of the local Ghost Hunter Guild, senses the ancient Burning Lamp is the key, but he needs help finding it. He just doesn't expect aid to come from Marlowe Jones, the new head of the shadowy Jones & Jones agency and dreamlight reader par excellence. But someone else is after the lamp, too, and will stop at nothing, even murder, to get what he wants. A pair of well-matched protagonists, an evil para-sociopathic killer, and a deadly curse add up to an intriguing mystery, a steamy, psychically enhanced romance, and another imaginative foray into the haunts of Harmony. Verdict With her classic, sassy flair, Castle brings this engrossing trilogy (Fired Up by Jayne Ann Krentz; Running Hot by Amanda Quick) to a satisfying and thoroughly delightful conclusion, putting the old Winters/Jones feud to rest in a most romantic way. Castle (Obsidian Prey) lives in the Seattle area.
Feehan, Christine. Water Bound. Jove. (Sea Haven, Bk. 1). Aug. 2010. c.480p. ISBN 978-0-515-14824-4. pap. $7.99. Paranormal
Tossed overboard by a massive wave, solitary sea urchin diver Rikki Sitmore is startled to find a man caught in the treacherous currents. She rescues him but soon learns that Lev Prakenskii is no ordinary man. Not only has he lost a good part of his memory, but he has quick, lethal instincts, he knows his life is in danger—and he can link to her mind! Wary and reluctant yet fascinated by her atypical, emotional reaction to Lev, Rikki allows the badly wounded man to stay, never thinking that dangers from their pasts are about to converge with deadly results. Verdict Feehan takes readers into turbulent, uncharted waters as a courageous, high-functioning autistic heroine with the power of a water mage is paired with a tormented hero with numerous psychic gifts and major issues of his own, delivering an edgy, compelling, character-rich romance. This first in the author's new "Sea Haven" series is a spin-off of her popular "Drake Sisters" titles. Feehan (Wild Fire) lives in Northern California.
Howell, Hannah & others. Yours for Eternity. Kensington. Sept. 2010. c.304p. ISBN 978-0-7582-4737-7. pap. $15. Paranormal
Darkly entrancing, this anthology of historical vampire romances sweeps readers from early 16th-century Scotland to Victorian England with a trio of diverse, inventive tales. A young healer saves a vampire child left to die in the woods and fights The Hunters for her life and eventually her love as she goes in search of the boy's clan in Howell's adventurous "Highland Blood." A cold, arrogant vampire lord is attracted to a witch who seems immune to his charms in Alexandra Ivy's magical demon-laced Regency "Taken by Darkness." A young widow, haunted for years by sensual dreams that are actually past-life memories, is reunited with her dream vampire lover despite cruel, malicious efforts to keep them apart in Kaitlin O'Riley's "Immortal Dreams." Verdict Although varying in style, quality, and chill factor, these stories are perfect reading for a mysterious, uneasy Halloween night. Howell, Ivy, and O'Riley live in West Newbury, MA; Ewing, MO; and Los Angeles, respectively.
Owens, Robin D. Heart Journey: A Celta Novel. Berkley Sensation. (Heart, Bk. 9). Aug. 2010. 368p. ISBN 978-0-425-23454-9. pap. $15. Futuristic
Raz Cherry is a city-bound actor intent on rising to the top. The last thing he needs is a foreordained lifelong mate, especially one like nobly born, free-ranging field cartographer Helena "Del" D'Elecampane. Then the flip of an oracle card tells him that his HeartMate is about to come into his life. Raz has no idea that Del is the one, but she does, which sets the stage for a touching, passionate, conflicted, and ultimately successful courtship. Unexpected tragedies, critical family issues, and a rash of unexplained thefts add gravity and suspense, while telepathic pets and sentient spaceships and houses offer a touch of familiar whimsy that series fans will enjoy. Verdict Sexy, emotionally intense, and laced with humor, Owens's ninth book in her Celta "Heart" series once again draws readers into one of the more imaginative otherworldly cultures. Owens (Heart Change) lives in the Denver area.
Sands, Lynsay. Born To Bite: An Argeneau Novel. Avon. Sept. 2010. c.358p. ISBN 978-0-06-147432-3. pap. $7.99. Paranormal
When Armand Argeneau agrees to shelter rogue vampire hunter Eshe d'Aureus at his farm from a revenge threat, he has no idea that she is actually there to look into the deaths of his three former wives and the more recent death of his daughter-in-law. But fate has a way of mixing things up, and when Armand and Eshe realize they are meant to be life mates, the game changes—and then a killer sets out to continue his deadly work. Verdict Funny, spicy, and just plain fun, Sands's latest extends the Argeneau legacy with flair as fans rejoice. Sands (The Hellion and the Highlander) lives in London, Ont.
Silver, Eve. Sins of the Heart. HQN: Harlequin. (Otherkin, Bk. 1). Aug. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-0-373-77482-1. pap. $7.99. Paranormal
Stunned when the godlike man she watched save her teenage life by ripping the hearts and dark souls out of her two would-be killers wraps her in his jacket and gives her a lollipop, Roxy Tam has no idea that 11 years later they will meet again as wary adversaries. Dagan Krayl, powerful soulreaper and demigod son of the evil god Sutekh, is on a mission to resurrect his slain brother, which could spell disaster to the world. Meanwhile, fiery, mouthy Roxy, an Otherkin and Daughter of Aset, is honor-bound to keep humankind safe. Yet things are not as they seem, and as the pieces of the treacherous puzzle fall into place and unwanted passion flares, our protagonists have no choice but to work together. Verdict Silver has dipped her magical pen into a wealth of Egyptian mythological ink and with a few brilliant strokes has created a pair of fearless characters and a richly unusual supporting cast and dropped them into an unforgettable world that is dark, seductive, and sexy as sin. Essential for urban fantasy romance collections. First of a trilogy (Sins of the Soul [Sept.], Sins of the Flesh [Oct.]), preceded by a July ebook novella prequel, Sin's Daughter. Silver (Seduced by a Stranger) lives in Canada.
Spear, Terry. Seduced by the Wolf. Sourcebooks Casablanca. Aug. 2010. 404p. ISBN 978-1-4022-3753-9. pap. $7.99. Paranormal
Biologist Cassie Roux, a rare red lupus garou raised in the wild by real wolves, has devoted her life to keeping the wolves safe and her true identity secret. Now, intent upon saving a litter of wolf pups in rural Oregon where she had been lecturing, Cassie heads for the woods—and right into danger, attracting the attention of not only rancher and alpha pack leader Leidolf Wildhaven but also a number of other less savory characters. Verdict Gently laced with just enough wolf detail and werewolf lore, this action-packed story crackles with mystery, adventure, violence, and passion; a worthy addition to Spear's beautifully imagined werewolf world. Spear (Accidental Highland Hero) lives in Texas.
More real than not
Andersen, Susan. Burning Up. HQN: Harlequin. Sept. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-0-373-77498-2. pap. $7.99. Contemporary
Ten years ago, scandal-ridden teenager Macy O'James left tiny Sugarville, WA, for Hollywood—and never looked back. Having returned to help her injured cousin and armed with flamboyant costumes, MTV video success, and a sassy attitude, Macy is determined to hold her own in a town where memories are long and feelings run deep. She just never expects to fall for the perceptive fire chief who sees beneath her façade and loves her unconditionally. Verdict True to form, Seattle-based Andersen (Bending the Rules) has penned a smart, arousing, spirited escapade that is graced with a gentle mystery, a vulnerable, resilient heroine, and a worthy, wounded hero and served up with empathy and a humorous flair.
Chase, Loretta. Last Night's Scandal. Avon. Aug. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-0-06-163267-9. pap. $7.99. Historical
Childhood friends, adventurous companions, and total opposites, impulsive, scandal-prone Olivia Carsington and scholarly, principled Peregrine Dalmay, Earl of Lisle (from Lord Perfect), meet again after many years and, thanks to Olivia's manipulations and much to Lisle's dismay, are now on their way to restore a crumbling, supposedly haunted Scottish castle, arguing all the way. An accidental kiss shatters their old rapport and unleashes a passion they can't deny, creating a dilemma they'd never expected. Eminently likable protagonists, a delightful assortment of colorful secondary characters, both old and new, and a satisfying measure of exquisite wit, often hilarious banter, and breathtaking sensuality add up to a fun, spirited story. Verdict The fifth of Chase's Carsington books (the first three—Lord Perfect, Mr. Impossible, and Miss Wonderful—were rereleased in July) is beautifully written. Another of Chase's captivating historical gems, it is essential for romance collections. Chase (Don't Tempt Me) lives in Worcester, MA.
James, Eloisa. A Kiss at Midnight. Avon. Aug. 2010. 384p. ISBN 978-0-06-16284-5. pap. $7.99. historical
The last thing overworked Kate Daltry wants to do is go to a ball—or meet a prince, for that matter—especially while pretending to be someone else. But when her selfish stepmother commands her to take her indisposed (and pregnant) half-sister's place so said half-sister and her fiancé can gain the prince's approval to wed, Kate heads for the castle and is swept into the most intriguing and unexpectedly passionate, if not always proper, adventure of her life. A responsible, beleaguered, impoverished prince who'd much rather be digging up Carthage, a smart, outspoken, equally responsible heroine who just wants a home and family of her own, an outrageously perfect godmother, a surfeit of animals, and a romance that is apparently doomed from the start add up to one of James's most original stories to date. Verdict Nonstop action, quick-witted, intelligent banter, clever plotting, remarkable, well-defined characters, and breathtaking sensuality make James's exquisitely written, hilarious take on Cinderella another magical sparkler. One can only hope that there will be a similarly reinvented Snow White or Sleeping Beauty in the offing. James (A Duke of Her Own) lives in the New York City area.
Jeffries, Sabrina. A Hellion in Her Bed. Pocket Star: S. & S. (Hellions of Halstead Hall, Bk. 2). Sept. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-1-4391-6754-0. pap. $7.99. Historical
Annabel Lake will do just about anything to save her family's brewery, even wager her lucky heirloom ring for another brewer's marketing help. Notorious gambling hellion Lord Jarret Sharpe, the current reluctant manager of his family's Plumtree Brewery, ups the stakes to a night in his bed, but Annabel shocks him by calling his bluff—and winning. Still, Annabel is keeping secrets, and as they gradually come to light, Jarret demands another wager, one he doesn't intend to lose. Complex, immensely appealing protagonists, a delightful profusion of diverse secondary characters (including a particularly engaging 12-year-old), the perfect touch of fascinating detail about the late Regency–era beer trade, and a plot that becomes more intriguing as it unfolds add up to another stellar read and another success for the rapidly ascending Jeffries. Verdict Rich with family interaction, deliciously redolent of yeast and hops, and overflowing with scintillating wit and heart-stopping sensuality, this addition to Jeffries's latest addictive series satisfies while cleverly doling out tidbits that will keep readers eager for the next installment. Jeffries (The Truth About Lord Stoneville) lives in Cary, NC.
[Ebook ISBN 978-1-4391-6757-1.]
Medeiros, Teresa. The Devil Wears Plaid. Pocket Bks: S. & S. Sept. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-1-4391-5788-6. pap. $7.99. Historical
Desperate to force the cruel, unscrupulous Earl of Hepburn to meet his demands, Jamie Sinclair snatches the Earl's would-be English bride from the altar steps, slings her across his saddle, and sweeps her off to the icy heights of Ben Nevis, fanning the flames of a centuries-long feud. While woefully innocent and dutiful to her family to a fault, Emmaline Marlowe is not the docile, helpless miss Jamie expects. As her bravery, indomitable spirit, and grit (and cooking skills) slowly win the respect of Jamie and his men, the attraction between the pair explodes into passion, threatening their goals and their hearts. Verdict Old enmity and more recent tragedy lie at the heart of this funny, gently poignant historical that revitalizes the well-worn feuding-families plot with wit, sizzle, and twists that turn expectations on their heads. A delightful diversion that deserves a sequel. Medeiros (Some Like It Wild) lives in Kentucky. [Ebook ISBN 978-1-4391-7071-7.]
Novak, Brenda. White Heat. Mira: Harlequin. (Department 6 Hired Guns, Bk. 1). Aug. 2010. c.448p. ISBN 978-0-7783-2795-0. pap. $7.99. Romantic Suspense
Sent into the sizzling Arizona desert to expose a dangerous religious cult and find a missing girl, undercover operatives Rachel Jessop and Nate Ferrentino pass themselves off as husband and wife to infiltrate the isolated ghost town compound. But grim, razor-wire-rimmed, and ironically named Paradise is anything but heavenly, and what Nate and Rachel eventually uncover is even more diabolical than they could have guessed. A botched romantic past ramps up the sexual tension as the protagonists struggle to get answers and maintain their cover as they are sucked more deeply into this murky world of deadly lies, psychopathic delusions, and salacious religious rites. Verdict First in Novak's new romantic "thrillogy" (Body Heat, Sept.; Killer Heat, Oct.) featuring agents of the private security contracting firm Department 6, this gripping, twisted tale draws readers into a brutal, starkly drawn world of white heat and dark deeds. Novak (The Perfect Murder) lives in the greater Sacramento, CA, area.
Stuart, Anne. Ruthless. Mira: Harlequin. (House of Rohan, Bk. 1). Aug. 2010. c.416p. ISBN 978-0-7783-2848-3. pap. $7.99. Historical
Desperate to keep her pox-ridden, irresponsible mother from losing the last of their dwindling funds, innocent Elinor Harriman goes after her and ends up at a dissolute, hellish party where she attracts the unexpected attentions of the host, Viscount Rohan, the King of Hell, himself. She has no idea that the attraction will last or that she will return his regard—or that she will need his help when her life is threatened. An intrepid heroine with a fear of rats and a deeply flawed hero who is not beyond redemption find love and salvation in this story that juxtaposes depravity with innocence in a fascinating emotional chiaroscuro that will keep the pages turning. Verdict Stuart's dark tale of aristocratic decadence and licentiousness among British expats in mid-18th-century Paris will chill the naive and singe the pages—and this is just the first in a trilogy. Stuart (Silver Falls) lives in Vermont.
Second Time Around
Grey, Amelia. Never a Bride. Sourcebooks Casablanca. Sept. 2010. c.384p. ISBN 978-1-4022-3978-6. pap. $7.99. Historical
In an effort to discover who was responsible for driving her beloved cousin to suicide, an unconventional noblewoman almost ruins her reputation in her quest. Then her long-lost fiancé unexpectedly returns from America, and things change dramatically. This lively Regency-set historical was originally published in 2001 by Jove.
Lowell, Elizabeth. Sweet Wind, Wild Wind. Severn House. Aug. 2010. c.256p. ISBN 978-0-7278-6904-3. $28.95. Contemporary
A young scholar returns to research the history of the Montana ranch where she was raised and discovers tragic but heart-healing secrets from the past and unexpectedly renews a fragile love. Although first published in 1987 as a Silhouette Intimate Moments and now slightly dated, this classic title still packs the sensual, emotional punch that Lowell fans have come to expect.
Macomber, Debbie. Orchard Valley Brides. Mira: Harlequin. Aug. 2010. c.400p. ISBN 978-0-7783-2828-5. pap. $7.99. contemporary
In Norah, a difficult Texan crashes his plane in Orchard Valley, OR, and falls for the nurse who cares for him. In Lone Star Lovin',a nurse (a friend of the heroine in Norah) moves to Texas and finds love with a widowed rancher, with the help of his young daughter. These two older contemporaries were originally published as Harlequin Romances in 1992 and 1993, respectively, and will appeal to readers who enjoy their love stories with a sweet Texas touch.
Sourcebooks Harvests
Two Golden Apples
Sourcebooks, Inc., of Naperville, IL, was honored by the New York City chapter of Romance Writers of America with a pair of 2010 Golden Apple Awards, one for Publisher of the Year. Editor of the Year went to Deb Werksman, lead editor for romance and Jane Austen fiction. Although established in 1987, Sourcebooks entered the romance publishing arena in 2007 when it added romance fiction to its nonfiction relationship/self-help oriented imprint, Sourcebooks Casablanca.
| Author Information |
| Kristin Ramsdell is Reference Librarian, California State University, East Bay. She is the author of the romance section of What Do I Read Next? A Reader’s Guide to Current Genre Fiction (Gale, annual) and Romance Fiction: A Guide to the Genre (Libraries Unlimited) |
