Out of Control by Rachelle Chase
A case of mistaken identity, a challenge and unmistakable attraction is at the core of this sexy little drama. Astrid is an independent, successful businesswoman. She hopes to land Erik Santos as a client, but the interview takes a shocking turn. Erik Santos decides to take advantage of a misunderstanding and demands a different business arrangement, a weekend trophy wife. But lusty passions touch deeper emotions. Erik and Astrid will learn new things about themselves during this steamy adventure pushing the boundaries of control. This story was a surprising delight! Ms. Chase managed in a short space to throw us a few curves and write two very engaging characters. A classic romance with a spicy twist I recommend getting “Out of Control” is highly satisfying!
Hawkmoor by Amber Green
Darien was bonded to Lady Hawkmoor, the hereditary ruler of all shape-shifters, when they were young in order to ensure peace among the tribes. When she disappeared he stepped in so that there would be a strong leader to keep order. When Lady Hawkmoor is found all his hard work to keep different factions calm is threatened by the power play that occurs. Mary Alison Hawkmoor is very independent. She is feisty but dangerously unaware of her heritage or any of the shifter community rules or dangers. Darien is ready to do whatever it takes, but he did not expect the fierce feelings of protectiveness and even love that he would have for his bondmate. Ms Green has a unique viewpoint of shape-shifters politics. Her characters are edgy and engaging. But the sexy love story between Darien and Mary Alison is the show stopper! This is an excellent story for those who love super sensual shifters with a wolfish edge that includes soulful love.
Lessons in Pleasure by Charlotte Featherstone
A lovely young woman, Lily Farrington is put in a compromising position in her desire to save her friends’ husband from death in a stupid duel. She makes a wicked bargain with the man she once loved and left. Damian Westerham the Earl of St Croix is an infamous rake. But he didn’t used to be, in fact he’d long ago lost his heart to the only lady he ever wanted to make his own. Now he will teach Lily to admit her passionate nature with his special lessons in pleasure. I enjoyed how these two strong individuals find their way back to one another in spite of the pressures of society and misunderstandings. Charlotte Featherstone’s story was a pleasant surprise for me. It’s a very sensual love story that eclipses a historical setting that is not one of my favorites. Very entertaining!
In the Heat of the Night by Calista Fox
The Toscano family is rich and powerful but cursed. Molina Toscano is sure she won’t live past her thirtieth birthday so she lives every day to the fullest, no commitments. But she isn’t about to let her family keep her a virtual prisoner to try to keep her safe. Only one person could get through the walls she put up around her heart and now he’s been rehired as her bodyguard. Nick Moretti never got over Molina but he won’t let his lust distract him from his duty. Nick knows these fatal accidents aren’t due to a curse, and if he has to call in every favor owed him to solve the mystery he will. Because this time Nick is determined to show Molina they have a passionate future together. Ms Fox has written an enthralling romantic mystery that I couldn’t put down! The suspense builds at a fast pace and is spiced by the fierce sensuality between Molina and Nick. Super sexy characters and great plot, “In the Heat of the Night” grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let it go! It’s a keeper.
Secrets, Volume 13 as usual has put together a wonderful group of stories and talented authors. Each story is like a well faceted gemstone, with depth and sparkle on its own, but when set together they knock your socks off! Although short, these four stories sure pack a lot of detail, action, suspense and passion into their very diverse plots! These authors will have you looking up their websites or newsletters so you will know what they have planned next! Very entertaining and a totally satisfying read, you’ll want to tell everyone about these Secrets!
Overall rating: 
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Patrice
July 29, 2005
