Author: Erin Kelly

Summer of Dreams- Hallmark Movie Review

/ Erin Kelly / Leave a comment

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The first cassette tape that I owned was “Out of the Blue” by Debbie Gibson, and my “electric youth”-scented childhood was played out with her music as the soundtrack.  So, when I saw that the newest Hallmark movie, “Summer of Dreams”, featured my childhood idol, I couldn’t wait to see this fusion that must have been created with me in mind.

The Story–  Debbie Gibson plays “fictional” Debbie Taylor who happened to burst onto the pop scene when she was 15 with the hit single “Only in my Dreams” and has been making music ever since. (This role must have been a huge stretch… ) Debbie has been dropped by her label, pushed aside by her sort-of boyfriend, and sang her last concert in a mattress store.  She needs a change of scenery, so she heads to her sister’s cozy, ideal house and life to regroup.

My Thoughts– Although the story was a bit trite like most Hallmark Movies, the acting was pretty good, especially from Ms. Gibson and the actress who plays her sister, Pascale Hutton. Would I have preferred to watch Debbie Gibson sing her back catalogue for an hour and a half instead? Yes, but as far as Hallmark Movies go, this wasn’t a bad one. It was certainly better than Mariah Carey’s movie from last year where she just made me feel uncomfortable every time she was on screen. (Come to think of it, she was the soundtrack of my teens.) The love story, while not entirely captivating, was chill and believable, and most of the kids in her Glee-style choir were watchable. But, when Debbie Gibson sings, you just wish it wouldn’t stop. She obviously has loads of talent and stage presence.

Season Satisfaction– While advertised as a summer movie, the kids are in school and there is nothing mentioned that is summer-related. But, Debbie Gibson does seem like a summery person, so I guess it works…? Seriously, I read that she came to Hallmark with this idea and they fast-tracked it, so I imagine they called it whatever they needed to air it ASAP.

The Bottom Line– If you like Debbie Gibson, Glee, or teacher movies, you will enjoy this like a nice mint julep on a summer’s day. It goes down easy and puts a smile on your face.

 

Devil In Winter- Lisa Kleypas

/ Erin Kelly / 2 Comments

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While I have been a romance fan for about 25 years, until recently I hadn’t actively sought out new authors.  I followed recommendations of friends and always bought the newest Nora Roberts.  Other than that, I skipped around between a wide variety of books whose covers and descriptions appealed to me.  I assume that most of my friends and the casual romance reader are like I was, so if you are a romance fan who follows every new release and knows all the names in the biz, I apologize if this review is rehashing what you already know.  But, I simply couldn’t NOT review this book in case someone who hasn’t found Lisa Kleypas yet happens to come across my humble website or review.  Yep, it’s that good, and if you enjoy historical romance, I almost suggest that you dispense with reading the rest of this review and just go get this book.
The Story– Evie has some seriously screwed up relatives who are keeping her from her dying father and like to beat her every now and then for fun.  She decides that the only escape from these horrible people is to elope so that her new husband can protect her.  Fortunately, she knows a desperate rake who will overlook her stutter and shyness in favor of marrying her for her fortune.  Sebastian is proud of how many notches he has compiled on his bedpost. In fact, I’m not sure how the bed would still be standing with that many notches, but he is willing to settle down, at least in name only, in order to set up a comfy future for himself.

My Thoughts – Yes, it’s a marriage of convenience story, but it is so well-done that you will likely hold it as a standard for like stories in the future.  A couple of times while I was reading in the car rider line at my daughter’s school, I actually felt disappointment when the line started moving because it meant I had to put the book down. Now that’s saying something. The characters are well-developed, and motivations are brilliantly set up so that there is no confusion.  I was unaccustomed to reading a historic romance (other than Outlander) which incorporates actual historic tidbits and info as well as extremely detailed setting.  Often the only hint that you are in the past is that people use titles, attend balls, and cannot be left alone.  Not so with Ms. Kleypas.  I usually talk about world-building in response to paranormal books, but even though this is a historical, the world-building rivals anything I’ve seen elsewhere.

The Good– Although difficult to choose, my favorite element of this book is the characters.  They are fully developed and complex, which makes it feel like you are witnessing friends fall in love rather than broadly-drawn archetypes. The plot never lags, and the set-up doesn’t feel contrived.  The sex scenes are some of the best I’ve read with the perfect amount of heat (for me) with no odd descriptions that took me out of the story.

The Bottom Line– This is one of the best historical romances I’ve ever read, and I am almost afraid to read more Lisa Kleypas in case they don’t measure up. But then I realized, an even-slightly worse version of this book would be better than 90% of the other books I’ve encountered.  So, I will be diving into the back catalog, and I, like other romance fanatics will be waiting with bated breath for February when “Devil in Spring” is released as it features the son of these characters and has one of the most beautiful covers I’ve ever seen.  This is one of those books that makes me grateful that I read romance.

Kiss of Steel- Bec McMaster

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“Kiss of Steel” is the first book in Bec McMaster’s London Steampunk Series, which she has recently expanded to a spin-off series with “Mission: Improper”.  This was my first steampunk read, and while some “true steampunk” readers have critiqued this for not being representative of the genre, it was an excellent introduction to steampunk for me since I already love romance and paranormal. Oh yeah, did I mention that this book has a great paranormal storyline? Let’s dig in!
The Story- Honoria is struggling to keep her family fed after the death of her father and their escape from the cultured world of the Echelon.  When she is summoned to the rogue who dared to rebel against high society, she fears that her safe seclusion is at an end.  Oh, and there are vampires, robot arms, werewolves, and mechanical soldiers.

My Thoughts- I always have trouble writing a story synopsis for books I really enjoy because I hate giving anything away that the reader would have a much better time reading in the book itself.  I had no idea what to expect coming into this book, and I liked it that way.  I had trouble putting this book down.  It was one of those captivating books where you want to read really fast to find out what happens next, but you know that if you read too fast, you’ll miss some great writing and details.  Like a plate of cheese fries you want to devour, but you have to remind yourself to breathe. Or maybe that’s just me. Anyway, I loved this world, I really enjoyed the characters, and the story clicked along just right.

The Good- World-building: each layer is revealed like an onion, and the reader is like “oh! That’s what’s happening.”  The author also has an amazing vocabulary, which is often lacking in these books, and her attention to detail and description is masterful.

The Bottom Line- I had so much fun reading this book.  The author swept me up in her world, and I felt like I was along for the ride.  If you are open to steampunk and paranormal, I highly recommend this book, and I intend to finish the series. (So many books; so little time!) For me, this is 5 stars for pure enjoyment.

Highland Deception- Lori Ann Bailey

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“Highland Deception” is the debut of author, Lori Ann Bailey, and is the first in her Highland Pride series.  As a fan of all things Scotland, I was predisposed to like this book although, while Bailey does a great job with her debut, it was a tale of two cities for me.

The Story- Maggie is set to marry a rapist/murderer/real jerk, so she decides to run away and join a nunnery.  On the road, she unwittingly falls in with a group of men from another clan while showcasing her healing skills.  Fearing that they will return her to her fate, she refuses to tell them who she is, which is a problem for their leader, Lachlan.  Lachlan falls for her; conflicts arise.

My Thoughts- This story began with a bang and hooked me immediately.  Unfortunately, as soon as they arrive at Lachlan’s castle about halfway through, it felt like the story began to flail and random conflicts arose here and there which seemed like an attempt to add drama. I also took issue with the idea that a priest’s niece could be bedded and discarded with no issue.  I didn’t swoon over the hero like I normally do when they are wearing kilts, and I think it’s because he did not treat her much better than the other men in her life. I did identify with Maggie, which could be why I took her mistreatment to heart.

The Good- Maggie is a great character: brave, kind, a woman who thinks for herself.  The sex scenes and preceding build-up scenes were very hot and well-written.  The Scottish brogue is just enough to hear the music of the language, but not over-done in a way that makes it difficult to read.  The setting is perfectly described and makes you want to be in Scotland yesterday.  The initial conflict and set-up is intriguing and captivating.

The Bottom Line- If you like stories set in Scotland, this is definitely one to pick up as it does a great job of bringing the history, culture and setting into the story instead of just plopping some random story down and saying that it’s Scotland and the hero wears a kilt and calls her “Lassie”.  I had some issues with story toward the end and the hero, but it isn’t enough to keep me from recommending this book and looking forward to more from this author. 3 stars

Wild Irish Heart- Tricia O’Malley

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“Wild Irish Heart” is the first book in the Mystic Cove Series by Tricia O’Malley.  In this story, she brings us to Ireland and introduces us to an ancient magic which binds the women of Grace’s Cove to each other and to the amazing landscape.

The Story-  A mysterious book stating “it is time” forces Keelin to face her past and accept a new future in Ireland.  Seriously, Keelin has the set-up with a cottage that has a view of the ocean and a glorious cove to explore.  The townspeople are suspicious, due to her family’s heritage, but she meets a hot guy within the first couple of minutes.  Flynn just happens to be rich, beautiful, and there to rescue Keelin again and again.

My Thoughts- Despite some overused tropes (girl and guy don’t like each other initially), I was drawn into this world and story very quickly.  I wanted to be Keelin, starting a new life in Ireland, making new friends at the local pub, and, of course, hanging out with the hottie. Some conflicts were resolved too quickly with an easy, “I’m sorry”, but the pacing and interest of the story never let up.

The Bottom Line- I intend to continue with this series as I am interested in what happens to Keelin and the other women of Grace’s Cove.  There was just enough supernatural mixed in with wonderful descriptions of Ireland to keep me happy.  This was a short, easy, fun read that brought a nice little bright spot to my week. 4 stars

Top 5 Best Locations to Set a Romance 

/ Erin Kelly / 1 Comment

Today, I thought it might be fun to explore the places I love to read about in romance novels. I’ve included both some common ones as well as places I’d like to read more about. So, let’s get to it: my favorite places in romance novels!
5. Paris– Paris is synonymous with love and romance, but surprisingly enough, not many romance novels are set in this beautiful city.  The gorgeous parks, bakeries, cafes and museums would all make perfect backdrops for a budding romance.  Remember the movie “Before Sunset” with Ethan Hawke?  After that boat ride on the Seine, you just knew there was no way he was leaving her. Or what about Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris”? Paris is so magical it was perfectly believable that the hero would encounter magic in her streets.

Additionally, Paris and the surrounding areas have such an interesting history that is begging to be explored. While I do love English ladies and dukes, it wouldn’t hurt to replace them with a French aristocracy sometimes.  A few romance authors do use the setting of Paris to great effect, (I’m thinking of Juliette Sobanet) but I would love to visit the city of lights via books more often.

4. New Orleans– Being a Louisiana girl, it should come as no surprise that I view our gem of a city as a prime setting for a romance novel.  New Orleans carries with it so much mystery and magic; it is perfect for the author that wants to add a little suspense or paranormal to their story.  The food is to die for, the French Quarter has exquisite architecture, and the city is already rife with legends and stories to play with.  I will ask kindly that any author choosing New Orleans do their research as nothing annoys us natives more than someone misrepresenting our culture or city.

If you want to read about New Orleans from a native, Juliette Cross has set her “Forged in Fire” series there, and she does a great job of representing the truth of the city as well as building on its mystery.

3. Italy– When people think of romance and Italy, they usually either think of Tuscany or Venice.  They don’t realize how much there is to Italy and how many places could be utilized to tell stories of love. Naples is full of passionate people, a seedy underworld, old castles, and superstition.  Florence is the city of art and Renaissance; I fall in love every time I visit that city.  Rome is about the people and the history and movement and sex.  The Amalfi Coast is an excellent small-town setting with unrivaled beauty and close-knit communities.

And then there’s Venice.  If you couldn’t come up with a story set in Venice, I wonder about your abilities.  And Tuscany is, of course, home to wine, crumbling vine-covered houses shining in the sun, and amazing people who lovingly maintain their small villages. My favorite books set in Italy aren’t technically romance novels, but are memoirs by Marlena de Blasi. For me, they truly sum up the Italian experience, but I’d love some quick and fun reads set in this amazing country.

2. Ireland– Yes, now we are in tried and true territory. Many authors use the mystique and lore of Ireland to tell amazing stories. Overdone? Maybe, but I love them and will continue to be drawn to them. The cliffs, hills, cozy little pubs, and stories or “craic” make Ireland among the most appealing of places to have a romance.  I love how books have transported me to Galway, Dublin, Shannon, Dingle and Cork.  Ireland is the perfect setting for those of us who want to settle down in a small cottage with a cup of tea and a garden, and head out to the local pub for a Guiness and stew to listen to a local band play sad Irish music. My author recommendation list would be too long to publish, but I have to thank Nora Roberts for introducing me to the wonders of romance in Ireland back in college.

1. Scotland– I am not alone. There is a reason myself and so many like me are drawn to Scotland.  Most people might laugh at me and say that it is all about the kilts. While I do love a man in a kilt, that isn’t it.  For me, everything in Scotland comes together to both spark my imagination and comfort me like a warm blanket (or kilt) wrapped around my shoulders.

I love the history with the clans, struggle with England, rebellions, and castles. I love the lore and stories of fairies, witches, magical glens, and mountains formed from people.  I love the culture of the bagpipes, ceilidhs, storytelling, brogue, whisky, and yes, kilts. I even love the weather of Scotland.  My friend who lives there swears I would tire of the overcast days and rain, but I am not so sure.  Nothing says happiness to me like a cool day where I need to wear a sweater and drink something warm. This past summer I visited Scotland again and was able to visit the Highlands, the Isle of Skye, and I spent a few days in Stirling and a few living out my fantasy in an Airbnb in Edinburgh.

Scotland makes me happy, and I appreciate all the writers who bring me there again and again. There are so many, but I am currently reading “Highland Deception” by Lori Ann Bailey (review coming soon). Keep fulfilling my Scottish dreams, y’all!
This list is by no means comprehensive of the places I love to read about in romance novels. I would love to hear your ideas, and maybe I can construct a part 2 soon. Where do your romantic dreams take place?

Unexpected Eden- Rhenna Morgan

/ Erin Kelly / 1 Comment

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“Unexpected Eden” is the first book in the Eden series by Rhenna Morgan.  I had heard good things about Morgan, but hadn’t jumped to read this for a sort of silly reason: the cover. I am just not big on enormous burly man chest as a representation of a novel.  I will always make accommodations if said burly chest is accompanied by a kilt or if the book in question is by an author I already trust.  That being said, I’m glad I finally started this series, and I have to admit that I learned a little lesson in judging a book by its cover.

The Story- Lexi is a stressed-out bartender who, in the opening scene, is being ogled by a guy who could pass for a Greek god.  Why would he want her? Turns out, he’s been looking for her for a long time since she is literally the girl of his dreams.

My Thoughts- The world-building is simply amazing.   I kept reading these crazy words, but I knew exactly what they meant even though the author didn’t spend pages explaining.  She is that good.  The transition into this other world with its different customs is wonderful, and I felt like I was learning along with Lexi.  The sex scenes are HOT.  No weird wording or uncomfortable phrases, just hot. The secondary characters are interesting and serve the plot, as well as foreshadow romances to come.

The Bottom Line- If you are reading this review, you should read this book. If you like fantasy and different worlds, you should read this book. If you are looking for a new author with a great start to a series (that I plan on finishing ASAP), you should read this book. 5 stars!

All of My Heart- Hallmark Movie Review

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Ready to continue with my reviews of fall-themed Hallmark Movies, I settled in for this little gem last night.  “All of My Heart” stars the adorable Hallmark favorite, Lacey Chabert, and Brennan Elliot, who I had only ever seen as a “bad guy” in previous movies.

The Story– Jenny thinks she is getting engaged, but her douche-bag boyfriend is just celebrating a big promotion. I don’t know why she wants to marry him as he looks like a less-appealing George McFly from “Back to the Future”, but continuing on… Then she finds out that she has somehow inherited half of a big house in the sticks. The other half belongs to a stock broker, Brian.  Jenny wants to put her amazing cooking skills to work and open a B&B, and Brian just wants to sell—until he tries her baking and helps give birth to baby goats and really sucks at carpentry. Creepy boyfriend comes back to make things uncomfortable, and I won’t spoil the rest.

Season Satisfaction-While this isn’t given a fall title, it did a pretty good job of making me wish for that lovely season.  Some great sweaters, plenty of coffee, even a nice snuggle under an afghan on a swing are present to put us in the fall mood. Guess what though? It was a February/Valentine’s Day release back in 2015 when it debuted. Shocking! No hearts or candy or roses in sight! So, while it wasn’t necessarily meant for fall, I’m going to pretend it was.

The Bottom Line-So much better than usual offerings! I really liked this one. As I said before, I had only seen Elliot playing the bad guy in previous movies, and he grew to be so lovable in this. He is a much better actor than the parts he normally gets. And Lacey Chabert was amazing as usual. It is so easy to believe that any guy would fall in love with her, but she is also like the best friend I wish I had. Especially if she cooked for me like she does in the movie… The movie is set to repeat toward the end of September, and I suggest you check it out. It is like a mug of something warm. 5 stars.

Dragons Among Them- Kyra Jacobs

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“Dragons Among Them” is the first installment in Kyra Jacobs’ series, The Kingdoms of Ice and Fire.  As a person with eyes, I was completely drawn in by the cover, (isn’t it gorgeous?) and was really looking forward to reading this book.  I had read and enjoyed Jacobs’ introduction to the contemporary Checkerberry Inn series, but it was so different from this that I was definitely curious if she could pull off fantasy and dragons.

The Story– Adelaide (love the name) is a photographer who falls through time and space into another world where she encounters Prince Zaine, who also happens to be a dragon shifter.  She is immediately in danger, and he is driven to protect her, even if it means threatening an alliance-driven engagement.

My Thoughts– I had a little trouble getting into this book, even though I was excited about it. I actually read the first quarter or so, then put it down for a couple months.  I’m not sure what made it difficult to connect with in the beginning, but I am so glad that I picked it back up.  As soon as I got past an unexpected twist of a sort, it was smooth sailing and I devoured the rest.

The Good– I love time travel/trapped in another world books.  There is something about finding someone in a place that you never expected that I really enjoy.  Adelaide is a fun character, and her reactions to her new world are just right.  I loved the wizard and his interactions with just about everyone. He is a great character that I hope to see more of in upcoming books.  The setting and world-building was interesting, but I hope for more of that in the future as well. Each bit of lore or backstory added to the current story immensely.  The dragon element was fun without being forced and raises some questions about how the dragons fit into this world. Are new shifter dragons being born?

The Bottom Line– This is a nice start to a series, but does leave some unanswered questions that I look forward to being resolved. It is definitely worth the read. I give Dragons Among Them 4 stars due to the slow start and desire for answers to world-building questions. Ms. Jacobs can absolutely pull off fantasy and dragons.

Dragon In the Blood- Juliette Cross

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Dragon in the Blood is the second book in the Vale of Stars Series by Juliette Cross, but is the 5th book which is set in the world of Morgons (part dragons). It continues a mystery built in the last book, but stands alone as a great romance story.

The Story- Valla and Conn are members of the Morgon Guard who have been tasked with tracking down the Blood King and his followers. As they traverse the dangerous terrain of the Aria region, they become closer which brings about a different kind of danger.

The Good- I feel like this book really delves into the Morgon world, giving mythology, new regions, new creatures, and more details than any set in this world to this point. I liked the different perspective of two Morgons mating because it introduces us to the mind and nature of a Morgon woman. Independent without being sassy and over-confident, Valla is a wonderful heroine. I also especially enjoyed the new character of the Priestess; her POV chapters were some of my favorite in the book. I cannot wait to see what she will do in the future. I also love the variety of locations and the map in the back to help me track the journey. I almost wish for a list of the Morgon “clans” with their special powers and region just so I can get a better handle on this world. It is so immersive, and Cross has created a vast world to write from.

The Bottom Line-While this is a very good love story in its own right, I think you should definitely read Waking the Dragon first in order to set up the over-arching mystery. The three novellas in this world are great companion pieces, but not required. I give this book 4 1/2 stars.