I find myself increasingly frustrated trying to find new authors or even with some authors I'd previously enjoyed. One example of this is Emma Holly's new book, 
Catching Midnight (Jove). I have enjoyed her erotic historicals very much in the past, and I love a good paranormal romance, but not of the blood-sucking variety usually, and this one is not an exception there. Gillian was adopted by "the children of the night" when she was a young child, and, now immortal, she's decided she must be free to explore the world. Aimery Fitz Clare happens upon her just after she's changed forms, catching her for a hunting bird. I wanted to like this, but I didn't. I find absolutely nothing erotic about sucking someone's blood, though for true vampire-type character lovers, this should be right up your alley. Of Cupid's five arrows, I'm only borrowing two for this one.
Next up is Cassie Edwards's 
Racing Moon (Signet). Maureen O'Rourke is shocked when she's kidnapped by Indians bent on teaching her nasty employer a lesson, and even more shocked when she finds that they believe she is his wife. Ms. Edwards's reseach into the tribes of America is impeccable, but I just can't get into her books. The bad guy is pretty cliched, and the story seems like a rehash of many previous. I'm giving this one only two arrows as well.
Another author whose books I feel are inconsistent are Karen Fox's. I've read some that I really, really liked, and others I just couldn't buy into. Unfortunately, 
Impractical Magic (Jove Magical Romance) isn't one I loved. Illusionist Brandon Goodfellow, son of Robin and Kate from "Prince of Charming," and unlucky, unmagical man, is about to be busted by the faery who once stole his heart, Rose Thayer. She's determined to figure out his best trick and expose his secrets to the world. I so wanted to enjoy this story, too--it's paranormal, my favorite subgenre--but I didn't. I found Rose self-absorbed, and Brandon boring, though it pains me to admit that. I have hope, though, that, since I liked Ms. Fox's last book so much, that perhaps I'll like her next as well. This one earns three arrows.
Finally this week, I have Kathleen Givens's 
The Destiny (Warner Forever), the tale of Neil MacCurrie, brother of James from "The Legend." Eileen Ronley, however, meets him when he is posing as a Frenchman. When she helps him to escape a nasty man, she doesn't expect to see him again, however, while she is in London, her surprise turns to pleasure. Now this story, I enjoyed very much. Lots of history, but not so much that it overpowers the romance. Lovely Scottish scenery that reminds me of my trip there last year, and a hero determined to win his lady. I'm borrowing four arrows for this one. It's a keeper.
Until next time, happy reading!
