Weekly Wrap Up (SP/IMWAYR?)

Wildfire In His Arms by Johanna Lindsey (#2)

We first met gun for hire Degan Grant in One Heart to Win. He was hired to make sure a family feud did not break out in fighting. He was a mysterious, interesting character and I was thrilled to learn he was getting his own story. After things were settled between the Callahans and Warrens Degan decides it is time to move on. While on his way to California an old friend calls in a favor. He asks Degan to hunt down three wanted men. The first one is easily found and when Max escapes capture, Degan spends extra time in hunting him down. When cornered Degan discovers that Max is really Maxine. They make a deal that if she does not keep trying to escape he will take her back to her hometown so she can clear her name. Together they hunt down the two wanted men that Degan agreed to capture. I liked how Max was able to uncover Degan's secrets with her sass and spunk. He was able to anticipate her moves to her frustration, but he does believe in her innocence the more he gets to know her. Their chemistry lit up the pages and I stayed up way too long to finish their story. I hope there are future books featuring the Callahan brothers.

The Heiress Effect by Courtney Milan (#2)

Jane Fairfield had 480 days in which to remain unmarried for her sister's benefit.  In order to discourage suitors she becomes a woman to avoid. Dressing outrageously, speaking loudly and with no censor.  So far her plan is working until she meets Oliver.  As a bastard son of a Duke Oliver has had to work hard all his life for his position. He immediately empathizes and understands Jane, but she is exactly what he does not need. He does however tell Jane that if ever she needs his help he will come.  When Emily, Jane's sister, disappears she calls on him for that help.  He can't help but admire and be proud of Jane, but has to fight his attraction until Jane teaches him about being true to ones self.  I loved Jane's fierce protectiveness of her sister and willingness to do anything to protect her from their Uncle.  Oliver was a bit slower to grow on me due to his intense need.  The secondary characters added so much to the delight of this story.  

The Wedding Pact by Katee Robert (#2) (audio)

Carrigan and James, from two warring families are involved in a secret love affair.  Carrigan's father has arranged a marriage to make a powerful alliance. Carrigan is tired of being used as a pawn instead of being valued as a daughter as well as a young woman with dreams of her own. James is tired of his families corrupt business and want to legitimize their interests, but has resistance from his family.  In order to retain some control he continues but secretly foils some of the more horrific plans. Carrigan wants out of the arranged marriage until James' life is threatened.  She makes a deal with her future husband for James' safety until she learns that he has no intention of honoring their bargain.  She escapes and decides to take matters into her own hands to ensure James' survival. The choices Carrigan and James have to make come at a high price.  Are they willing to pay?  James and Carrigan are explosive together and you can't help but root for them.  Charlotte North does a fantastic job narrating all the POVs of the story. I could not stop listening to this book and look forward to what happens next in these families lives/feuds. This is book two in the series and while it does stand alone, it will help tremendously to read the first book.

*Thanks to Mitch and Hachette Audio for this review copy*

Beautiful Burn by Jamie McGuire (#4)

Tyler Maddox works hard as a hotshot that leaves him little time for relationships.  He has a reputation as a love 'em and leave 'em hottie. Until he meets trust fund heiress Ellie at a party she is hosting.  Ellie is the epitome of a spoiled rich girl self destructing with her behavior.  Her parents bail her out time and time again. When they finally reach their limit and cut her off she has to support herself.  Something about Ellie attracts Tyler even when she treats him terrible. Tyler does all he can to help her change her life even when she breaks his heart.  She gets a job that she really enjoys and is very successful at doing it.  However the job is not enough to keep her from falling back into old habits and asking for the help she needs.  When she finally takes a step for herself and no one else and asks for help does she move forward.  Even though Ellie is a hard person to like you can't help but root for her.  The fire fighting aspect of the story added to Tyler and Ellie's love story and wrapped up the series wonderfully.

Mother's Day was a beautiful sunny day with a bit of a cool breeze. We had a nice time playing with the grand kids and enjoying good food.  I hope those going to BEA have a wonderful time.


Up Next:
The Lake House by Kate Morton
Beautiful Secret by Christina Lauren
Finding Fraser by KC Dyer

Book Thoughts Posted:
Flash of Fire



Linking to these memes:

Kathryn at Book Date hosts IMWAYR?, a place to  meet up and share what you have been, are and about to be reading over the week.  It's a great opportunity to organize yourself, visit, comment, and add to that every growing TBR pile.

The Sunday Post is a weekly meme hosted by Kimba @Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received.