Here's a recap of recent HEA recs for your new e-reader/tablet
Merry Christmas! And now that you've gotten a new e-reader or tablet for Christmas, I bet you're looking for some great romances to download. Here's a selection of the recs that HEA's contributors have made in recent weeks to help you out (in no particular order).
Princess of Thorns by Stacey Jay. This is an exciting and magical story that lovers of fairy tales will not want to miss. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Under My Skin by Shawntelle Madison. A fantastically vivid story packed with action and emotion that will draw you into the characters' lives and their struggle to survive. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Suspicion by Alexandra Monir. A contemporary, paranormal Gothic romance that blends Downton Abbey with Victoria Holt, Charlotte Bronte and a little Cassandra Clare, this book is one to curl up with on a cold night ... as long as you are willing to be creeped out a little when the sun goes down. (Recommended by Jessie Potts and Serena Chase.)
Lady of Fire by Tamara Leigh. A sweeping, clean-with-steam medieval romance. With a subtle faith thread, these delightfully realized characters invite you along as they embark on a tense and romantic journey across borders, cultures, and rivalries ... toward love. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
The Heart of Christmas by Brenda Novak. A great story, full of suspense, good friends, sexy encounters and a story ending that you want but have to take quite a ride to get to. (Recommended by Becky Condit.)
A Cliché Christmas by Nicole Deese. This story is begging to be made into a movie and I have decided to officially christen A Cliché Christmas as My Favorite Christmas Romance of All Freaking Time. Yes, I love it that much — and I'm betting that you will, too! (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
The Wishing Season by Denise Hunter. Denise Hunter's inspirational romances are well-thought-out stories with memorable characters, comfortable settings, and just enough heat to speed the beat of your heart. I've enjoyed all the books of hers I've read, but this one is my favorite so far. Highly recommended! (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Still Beautiful by Amy Patrick. A wonderful opposites-attract story with realism and humor. The sparks fly between Blake and Cinda from the beginning, and their battles and minor skirmishes pump the right amount of energy through the story. Who knew internships could be so fun and rewarding? (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
Secret Relations by Shelia Goss. In the first book in the Women in Hollywood series, the momentum is off to a good start with this sexy romantic suspense. This is more than a story where the celebrities collide with those who crave the lifestyle and maybe even the celebrities themselves. Goss effectively spotlights character flaws and vulnerabilities and winds a story with high-stakes drama. And as for the romance? Sexy, hot and instant. (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
Love's Culture by Angelia Vernon Menchan. The author does a fine job with shifting the lens to capture the characters' unique perspectives and motivations. She creates a melting pot of diverse goodness to be served up for a fulfilling read. Well done. (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
Dirigibles Are Forever by Tina Christopher. Steampunk is one of my favorite genres, especially when done well. I love the mechanics, the cogs and the alternate history. I loved the way the author combines steam and mechanics and really hope there's a sequel. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Inspire by Cora Carmack. My first Cora Carmack book, and I liked it so much that not only am I highly awaiting the sequel, but I've downloaded All Lined Up. If you like mythology, forbidden romances and strong heroines, you'll want to pick this one up. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Wicked by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Likable characters, action, suspense, humor, heart and sexiness — Jennifer L. Armentrout balances it all perfectly in this exciting first installment that ends in a give-me-the-next-book-now kind of twist. (Recommended by Vilma Gonzalez.)
Now That You're Here by Amy K. Nichols. I have read so many parallel universes lately and love each author's twist on the genre and the science behind it. Eevee and Danny are one of my new favorite YA couples. They are both smart, Eevee viciously so, and the way Danny describes her, how he sees her, just makes my heart melt. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
A King Undone by Cooper Davis. I'll admit to wanting to read this because I was intrigued by the courtesan left on the shelf for 10 years, just watching everyone find homes while he was passed over. I expected a light and enjoyable read and at first that's exactly what it was. Then the King met Julian, and the wit and sass that are exchanged back and forth had me warming to both characters instantly. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Beautiful Curse by Jen McConnel. This book is chock full of plot and characters, and many of the secondary characters have such life and personality of their own that I'd love to see a story or novella about them in the future. Our heroine, Maya, has also left her brand in my mind. She is completely easy to identify with, and I was rooting for her from beginning to the end. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Chance to be King by Sue Brown. I recommend Chance to be King as a great erotic love story to be savored and read more than one time. With an intricate plot, there is always the chance you missed something the first time, or maybe you just love Eric and Thomas so much, as I did, that you want to crawl into bed with them again. Er, so to speak. (Recommended by Becky Condit.)
The Best Kind of Love by Kerri Carpenter. "Sweet, Sexy, Sparkly" is Kerri Carpenter's brand. How on point, because The Best Kind of Love is a romantic treasure. (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
Chasing Serenity by Eden Butler. Butler writes with a stylistic, descriptive flair that emphasizes the burdens of carrying physical and emotional wounds. She creates characters destined for each other and ready for life's lessons. Chasing Serenity holds promise that the series roll-out will create Serenity-aholics. (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
I Belong to You (Inside Out series) by Lisa Renee Jones. Mark, the Master, is tormented and vulnerable. Readers are pulled in to witness, even feel, his anguish over past deeds and relationships — thanks to Jones' mastery over writing the emotional triggers that bring the characters to the forefront of our consciousness. And there is a mystery to be solved. Lots of dark, suspenseful twists. (Recommended by Michelle Monkou.)
For Real by Alison Cherry. Alison Cherry's storytelling voice resonates as real in this fun and poignant YA/NA novel. Even the heart-heavy moments are subtly laced with humor, and it is that cleverness that keeps the story flowing at a steady race to the finish. Highly recommended! (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Can't Let You Go by Jenny B. Jones. Fans of the style of humor found in Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels will fall in love with this author's voice, this delightful book and its characters — you may even find yourself downloading the rest of the Katie Parker Production novels after devouring this one. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes. Better known for her historical romances, author Amber Stokes showcases her range with this touching contemporary romance. If you are looking for a book to light your evening with sweet romance, pick up As a Star Falls — you'll be sure to enjoy it! (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Only for You by Beth Kery. Sex, love, secrets and suspense, this one has it all. This story will delight fans of the One Night of Passion series and is sure to pique the interest of readers new to the town of Vulture's Canyon. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
The Affair by Beth Kery. Unique and rare, a heartfelt, incredibly erotic and moving love story that will leave you hungering for more from this author. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Every Part of You by Megan Hart. A hot erotic romance that has some light sadomasochistic elements, but Megan Hart's passionate sensual prose shows sensitivity to readers' varying tastes when it comes to some aspects of BDSM. Simone and Elliott's story will offer a chuckle, but it's also sad and real, a special romance I won't forget. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Anomaly by Tonya Kuper. This debut contemporary cross-genre YA/sci-fi adventure has everything action-hungry superhero lovers crave. A gripping page-turner with a good-vs.-evil theme. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Old Fashioned by Rene Gutteridge. This story's edginess was a big, wonderful surprise, and the friendly-but-wise quality of Rene Gutteridge's writing style had me highlighting quotes and lines because they rang so true in my heart. I couldn't help myself but to keep following the story to its hopeful, sweet, happy ever after. Adapted from a screenplay by Rik Swartzwelder, this is a novel romance fans will not want to miss! (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Hawk by Ronie Kendig. As usual with one of Kendig's novels, the non-stop action sets this story apart from its inspy romance shelf mates, drawing the reader into the challenges of surviving while being hunted by terrorists in a warzone. You might want to start with Raptor 6, book one in The Quiet Professionals series. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
Just for Christmas Night by Lisa Marie Perry. The third installment in The Blue Dynasty series, this is a sexy and sophisticated story that's not so much about a heartwarming holiday, but about how love can shed light across darkness. This book is a solid addition to my TBRA pile — To Be Read Again. (Recommended by Kathy Altman.)
The Lodge on Holly Road by Sheila Roberts. The ultimate in feel-good family drama and heart-melting romance. Plus, there's the added bonus of getting to celebrate the season with a community that couldn't be more devoted to Christmas. (Recommended by Kathy Altman.)
The Unexpected Bride by Lena Goldfinch. Better known for her supernatural and fantasy romances, Lena Goldfinch's range as an author is well-showcased in the natural prose of this sweet mail-order-bride tale. The romance is a slow build ... with a sweet burn always just under the surface. This is a great curl-up-on-a-cold-night read. (Recommended by Serena Chase.)
The Bones of You by Laura Stone. By the time the book ended I was in love with the characters to the point I couldn't let them go. As many romance novels as I read, it surprised me that I couldn't predict the conclusion of the story of Seth and Oliver. My own life was enriched by this story and these characters. Laura Stone is an author to remember and follow. I highly recommend The Bones of You as a beautifully written book and a story to enjoy. (Recommended by Becky Condit.)
Wolf's Fall by J.D. Tyler. This is the sixth book in the Alpha Pack series and centers on the commander and the princess, Nick and Calla. This can be read as a stand-alone, though it's funnier and better as part of the series. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Not Dead Enough by Mina Carter. Mina's writing has always made me laugh. I've enjoyed her hero/heroine interactions, and Not Dead Enough is no exception. Julia and Brett have some steam going on, and I liked the idea of the Project and what our government could be doing. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
The Dream Alchemist by Joanna Chambers. I've read a couple dream-walker books and love the idea, so I was happy to pick this one up. Joanna does a great job differentiating hers. Heroes Bryn and Lazlo are fun to watch. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Mercy by HelenKay Dimon. Dimon writes an intelligent narrative with complex passionate relationships, and an intricate plot with a number of surprises. Mercy is a gripping read, and you will be left longing to read Bast's story. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Only by HelenKay Dimon. An engrossing and at times emotional read and a fitting, high-quality sequel to Mercy. I would suggest reading Mercy and Only in series order. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Blackthorne by Lexxie Couper. A moving story about coping with grief after a devastating loss, altruism and new love. Lexxie Couper ends the Heart of Fame series on a high note. Blackthorne is one of her best. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
The Accidental Countess by Valerie Bowman. The second book in the Playful Brides series is merry, intelligent and wholly satisfying. The plot is elaborate, and Bowman handles it with grace to spare. After meeting Lucy, Cass's best friend and the mastermind behind her masquerade as Patience Bunbury, I'm eager to backtrack and read The Unexpected Duchess, which is Lucy's story, and an RT Book Reviews Top Pick. (Recommended by Kathy Altman.)
Heat of the Moment by Robin Kaye. Pure reading pleasure. Heat of the Moment is a small package, but it packs a powerful emotional punch. Robin Kaye's latest is cuddly, tender, super sexy, and just plain fun. (Recommended by Kathy Altman.)
No Ordinary Home by Mary Sullivan. Powerful and profound, and altogether lovely. Even the gritty, wince-worthy, heartbreaking bits — especially these bits, because together they form a captivating tribute to human nature and the flaws that can be as humorous as they are painful. This is one riveting romance, wrapped up with a super-gratifying HEA. (Recommended by Kathy Altman.)
Scratch by Rhonda Helms. If you like an emotional New Adult romance, with an awesome beta hero and a tortured heroine who needs lots of loving and understanding, Scratch is well worth a try. The conclusion of this one rocks! (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Finding Julia by Desiree Holt. A memorable and heartrending contemporary romance that lends new meaning to the old saying "love conquers all." If you are a fan of lovers reacquainted and secret-baby themes, Finding Julia is one to consider for your TBR. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Blamed by Edie Harris. A quintessential spy thriller. You can count on action, espionage, betrayal, suspense and passion, and Harris introduces a sadistic sociopath for good measure. This one is also about mending family rifts and, more important, we get a lovers-reacquainted theme. (Recommended by Lea Franczak.)
Stolen by Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston. As much as I loved the previous book, Frozen, I loved Stolen even more. There are so many secrets, so much revealed and more secondary characters introduced. You'll want to start with Frozen, though. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
No Bravery by T.A. Chase. This has everything you'd want in a short. There's a big back plot that slowly unfolds, two men who are looking at the bigger picture and, of course steam, steam, steam. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)
Cut and Run by Lara Adrian and Tina Folsom. Cut: I've loved almost everything from Lara Adrian. She writes such steamy paranormals and I love all of her hot heroes. Ethan Jones is no exception. I adored this first Phoenix book. Run: I hadn't read anything from Tina Folsom, but the second book of the Phoenix series has shown me I should. (Recommended by Jessie Potts.)