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I am Lover of romance, who indulges in the romantic adventures of literature

My name is Renee, and I am the host of this site. I am a 34 year old woman, on the prowl for her mate, searching out the best of books, exploring the wilds of the imagination and delving into the heart of a beautiful love story.

 

Re Read Book Reviews-Dark Celebration, In Bed With The Devil, In Love With The Highlander

by | Jan 23, 2016 | Book Reviews, Re Read Book Reviews | 11 comments

Re Read Book Reviews-Dark Celebration, In Bed With The Devil, In Love With The Highlander

Re Read Book Reviews-Dark Celebration, In Bed With The Devil, In Love With The HighlanderDark Celebration (Re Read Review) by Christine Feehan
Also in this series: Dark Prince, Dark Celebration, Dark Destiny, Dark Peril, Dark Storm, Dark Wolf, Dark Magic
Series: Carpathian #17
Published by Berkley Hardcover on September 5th 2006
Genres: Paranormal Romance, Vampires
Length: 12 Hours and 47 Mins
Pages: 372
Format: Audiobook
Source: Library
ISBN: 0425211673
Goodreads
four-half-stars

With her erotically charged Carpathian tales, Christine Feehan has enthralled a legion of fans, captivated by a seductive world and the unforgettable characters--both human and not--who inhabit it. Now, she reunites all of them in a Dark Celebration...
After centuries as the prince of the Carpathians, Mikhail Dubrinsky fears he can't protect his people for long from their greatest threat: the extinction of their species at the hands of their immortal enemies--who are devising a scheme to slaughter Carpathian females. But even with his own lifemate, Raven, and their daughter, Savannah, vulnerable to the encroaching evil, Mikhail's hope is not lost.
Carpathians from around the world are gathering to join their souls and their powers to bring light to the darkness. But so too are their adversaries uniting--hunters, vampires, demons and betrayers--bringing untold dangers into the fold of the Carpathian people.

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In Dark Celebration, I had a blast reconnecting with this story once again. I was able to listen to this through audiobook, which I hadn’t done yet. This was narrated by Richard Ferrone, who has done quite a few of Feehan’s work. He is okay to listen to, but not my favorite of her narrators but still did a decent job. When I first started listening to Feehan, her narrators I fell in love with were Rebecca Cook and Juanita Parker. but Richard Ferrone had a whole different way on pronunciation and it sounded weird to me. But oh well. This is one of my favorites from the series, because we get a chance to catch up with some of our favorite couples. It starts off with Mikhail and Raven. Raven has an idea, to gather all the Carpathians for a Christmas celebration. Brilliant. She realizes that their people are spread all over, and never get a chance to mingle, most especially the kids. We get to see how as more of their people arrive, Mikhail goes around to do visits (not his favorite thing in the world. We see Jacque and Shea, and Jacque trying to cook which is quite amusing. Then we see Falcon and Sara and the kids. We go to Desari and Julian. Adrian and Alexandra and her brother. We also get to see some drama with Josef. Now I will say this, out of all the kids, he is by far my favorite. What I like is many of the adults underestimate him. But he has a depth that I am looking forward to seeing more in the future. Then we see Gabriel, Francesca and Syler. Now this is where we see a change for Skyler. She and Alexandra end up attacked and their rescuer is her lifemate Dimitri. Boy does Gabriel get furious and out of hand. But I understand why he is so protective of Skyler. We see Dimitri’s pain and anguish over what Skyler has endured. We see when they meet later on in the woods alone, because Skyler is drawn to him and his pain. Skyler is only sixteen at this point, way too young for Dimitri to claim her. Although mentally she is way older than sixteen. Syler was raped and abused and treated like a sex slave most of her life until she met Gabriel and Francesca. They have helped her as much as possible. However, Skyler is a very unqiue character. This is where her bond with Dimitri forms, and it does take years before Dimitri and Skyler end up together in “Dark Wolf”. But I loved seeing the beginning of their bond. Then we get more from Darius and Tempest, Barrack and Cyndil, Dayan and Corinne. Then we get to meet up with the De La Cruz brothers. And some drama between Gary and Gabrielle and her family. But what is most fun was seeing Gregori and Savannah. Now the main part of the story here is Mikhail (I think trying to get back at Gregori for his overprotectiveness) is planning on having him play Santa Clause. He gathers all the Daratrazanoff brothers and what a hoot and we see Gregori’s shocked reaction and how he reacts to learning he will be having twins–girls. Overall a delightful holiday story that will make you laugh and want to reconnect with the series once again.

 

About Christine Feehan

Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 50 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, Ghostwalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, & the Sisters of the Heart Series. All five series hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.

IN HER WORDS:
I've been a writer all of my life -- it is who I am. I write for myself and always have. The ability to create pictures and emotions with words is such a miracle to me. I read everything; I mean everything! All kinds of books, even encyclopedias. I am fascinated by the written word and I love storytellers. It is a great privilege to be counted one myself.

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Re Read Book Reviews-Dark Celebration, In Bed With The Devil, In Love With The HighlanderIn Bed with the Devil (Re Read Review) by Lorraine Heath
Also in this series: Surrender to the Devil
Series: Scoundrels of St. James,
Published by Avon on June 24th 2008
Genres: Historical Romance, Regency Era
Pages: 371
Format: eBook
Source: Self Purchased
ISBN: 0061355577
Goodreads
five-stars

They call him the Devil Earl—a scoundrel and accused murderer who grew up on the violent London streets. A proper young lady risks more than her reputation when consorting with the roguishly handsome Lucian Langdon, but Lady Catherine Mabry believes she has no choice. To protect those she loves, she would do anything—even strike a bargain with the devil himself.

Lucian desires respectability and a wife above all else, but the woman of his choosing lacks the social graces to be accepted by the aristocracy. Catherine can help Lucian gain everything he wants. But what she asks for in exchange will put their very lives in jeopardy. When danger closes in, Catherine discovers a man of immense passion and he discovers a woman of immeasurable courage. As secrets from his dark past are revealed, Lucian begins to question everything he knows to be true, including the yearnings of his own heart.

Lorraine Heath is such a fabulous author, and if I were to pick…Lorraine Heath would make my top favorite historical romance authors to read. So if you have yet to try her out, you are definitely missing out. She has such a talent in writing historical romance. In Bed With The Devil, is a regency historical romance. We have our hero and heroine, Lucien and Catherine. What we see between them is powerful chemistry. Our hero, is a lord but hates it. He grew up on the streets, and formed his own family. When he meets Catherine, he is intrigued. Catherine is quite the daring heroine, but she also understand the Ton and the restrictions her gender has. I loved this romance, mostly because we have two characters that are totally wrong for each other but end up being totally right in the end. It was quite fun getting to know the characters that I fell in love with years ago. Reading this made me eager to read the second book!!

We get an introduction to Fanny, Jack Dodger, the infamous Dr. Graves. I loved seeing their interaction…but most especially Fannie and Jack Dodger. Now Jack Dodger (his book is up next and I can’t tell you how excited I am!!) His book is one of my favorite books of all time. He is quite the character. Fannie is sweet and smart. The book overall is sassy and enchanting.

About Lorraine Heath

Also writes Young Adult under Rachel Hawthorne, Jade Parker, and with her son as J.A. London)

Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."

She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero--Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.

When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA Today, Waldenbooks, and most recently, the New York Times.

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Re Read Book Reviews-Dark Celebration, In Bed With The Devil, In Love With The HighlanderIn Bed with a Highlander (Re Read Review) by Maya Banks
Also in this series: Never Love a Highlander, Seduction of a Highland Lass, In Bed with a Highlander
Series: McCabe Trilogy #1
Published by Ballantine Books on August 30th 2011
Genres: Historical Romance, Medieval Era, Scottish Highlands
Pages: 351
Format: Paperback
Source: Library
ISBN: 0345519477
Goodreads
five-stars

Maya Banks' beguiling new trilogy features three unforgettable brothers risking everything to save their clan and their legacy—and to surrender their hearts to love.
Ewan McCabe, the eldest, is a warrior determined to vanquish his enemy. Now, with the time ripe for battle, his men are ready and Ewan is poised to take back what is his—until a blue-eyed, raven-haired temptress is thrust upon him. Mairin may be the salvation of Ewan's clan, but for a man who dreams only of revenge, matters of the heart are strange territory to conquer.
The illegitimate daughter of the king, Mairin possesses prized property that has made her a pawn—and wary of love. Her worst fears are realized when she is rescued from peril only to be forced into marriage by her charismatic and commanding savior, Ewan McCabe. But her attraction to her ruggedly powerful new husband makes her crave his surprisingly tender touch; her body comes alive under his sensual mastery. And as war draws near, Mairin's strength, spirit, and passion challenge Ewan to conquer his demons—and embrace a love that means more than revenge and land.

In Bed With The Highlander, is the first book of the McCabe trilogy by Maya Banks. Now first off, I want to say, I have tried out some of her contemporary books and didn’t care for them too much. However when she writes historical romance—she rocks. This was her fist book in the genre and I loved getting in touch with these characters once again. We have our heroine, who is being kidnapped, because of her dowry and is related to royalty. A young boy, attempting to steal a horse gets caught, and Mairin rescues him from being killed. She protects him, and they escape together to his father Ewan McCabe. Mairin is no fainting flower, she holds her own with the formidable Laird. These two are like fireworks together, It was quite fun to read this again. I haven’t read it for years, but after reading this one, I realized why I fell in love with these brothers so much. We see the close brotherly bond they each have, but also I was quite charmed by the son too!! Crispin  is endeared to Mairin instantly and we how they form  close bond. The romance between Ewan and Mairin is engaging and charming. Their interactions so lively. MUST READ for any romance book lover.

About Maya Banks

My name is Maya Banks and I live in Texas with my husband and three children and our assortment of pets. I’m more of a cat person, but my daughter became convinced she NEEDED a dog. So convinced in fact that it became her mission to convince her father and me. She prepared a two page handwritten proposal that detailed WHY she needed a dog, and well, after I sent her to her father (I knew he wouldn’t tell her no) we embarked on the search for the perfect dog. The journey that was two hours away and that I got pulled over for speeding while I was on the phone with my agent who had an offer from a publisher for one of my books… The officer wasn’t impressed. He wrote me a ticket anyway. Thus, I now tell my daughter that her dog turned into one very expensive concession! But isn’t he cute?

When I’m not writing, I love to hunt and fish with my family. We all love the outdoorsMaya's Dog and go on family hunting trips every year. We also love to travel. One of our more recent trips was to Scotland, which was every bit as comical as National Lampoon’s European Vacation. You know the part about “Look kids, Big Ben, Parliament” as they went round and round the roundabouts? Yeah, that was us, only we couldn’t even get out of the airport in Glasgow without hitting three of those suckers.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of a writing career is getting to meet so many wonderful readers. There’s nothing better than dishing books with someone who loves the romance genre as much as I do. Romance readers are passionate and vocal. We love our books, love our happily ever afters, and we love to spend time talking to others about our favorites. THIS is why I love my job so much, and I’m so grateful to readers who gave ME a chance when I began my career. So thank you.

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11 Comments

  1. Jennifer_FairyTales

    So much squealing for In Bed with a Highlander and In Bed with the Devil. I love both Maya Banks and Lorraine Heath. I need to re-read the Heath series soon. Jack Dodger is the man!

    Reply
    • Lover Of Romance

      oh yes I know!! Jack Dodger is awesome, one of my favorite heroes that Heath has written. I love what she did with this series though, one of the best series I have ever read with a regency setting.

      Reply
  2. Blodeuedd

    The his romances, yes please on those 🙂

    Reply
    • Lover Of Romance

      fantastic right? I love Heath and Banks—-they write fabulous HR.

      Reply
  3. kindlemom1

    These all look like great reads, glad you enjoyed them!

    Reply
  4. LilyElement

    You know, I’ve been wanting to reconnect with the CFeehan books. Now that I <3 audios I might just have to hit the library and see if they have them in it. Thanks for the idea, and glad you enjoyed all of these!

    Reply
    • Lover Of Romance

      It is pretty fun to reconnect with this series. My library has quite a few of her audiobooks in this series. Love this series.

      Reply
  5. Sophia Rose

    I love that you’re doing this re-read challenge and sharing the thoughts with us. It reminds me that there is still so many books and series out there that I haven’t even started. I have Maya’s Highlanders on my shelf even and these sound so good.

    Reply
    • Lover Of Romance

      There are some pretty fabulous books right? Oh you definitely should pick up Maya’s Highlanders—-they are amazing!! You would really love them.

      Reply
  6. Carole's Random Life

    I have reached a point that I love re-reading my favorite books. I tend to forget a lot of the story if I only read it one time. I have noticed that after a second read it usually stays with me better. You picked three books and even three authors that I haven’t read. I do hope to read Christine Feehan soon. Great post!

    Reply
  7. Cyn

    Great re-reads! I love re-reading all of the Scoundrels of St. James, especially Surrender to the Devil! And I love the last book in the McCabe series too! Lovely reviews!

    Reply

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