In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

It's been a month (to the day) since I posted my last IMM...sad fact is that since then I have only received 5 books, 2 of which are for review...This book-budget is KILLING me!!! :(

Author: Alyssa Day
Title: Atlantis Redeemed
Series: Warriors of Poseidon
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: March 2010
Bought (via The Book Depository)

Poseidon’s warriors have learned that the battle to protect humanity produces unexpected enemies--and alliances. But none more unexpected than the bond between a cursed Atlantean warrior and a woman whose sight surpasses any lie…

A WARRIOR WITH NO EMOTION…
Doomed by Poseidon millennia ago to live life bereft of feelings, Atlantean warrior Brennan’s curse is shattered when he meets Tiernan--a human with the ancient Gift of Truth Telling. Attraction turns deadly when the woman he could never forget becomes the woman he can never remember. With the fate of Atlantis on the line, will a warrior’s uncontrollable desire destroy the world?

A WOMAN WITH AN EYE FOR THE TRUTH…
Tiernan’s job as an investigative reporter is perfectly suited to her unique ability to see through any falsehood. But when she discovers human scientists conducting hideous experiments on humans and shape-shifters alike, only a wildly sexy Atlantean can help protect her from the those determined to see her fail—and die. When the future of the world is at stake, can she overcome death itself so together they can protect mankind?

When truth and passion collide…Atlantis is redeemed.

Author: Pamela Clare
Title: Naked Edge
Series: I-Team Series, book 4
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: March 2010
Bought (via The Book Depository)

The day Navajo journalist Katherine James met Gabriel Rossiter, the earth literally moved beneath her feet. Nearly killed in a rockslide while hiking, she found her life in the tall park ranger's hands. Although she can't forget him she thinks she'll never see him again. She is crushed when she recognizes her rescuer among the law enforcement officers raiding a sweat lodge ceremony one night, throwing her and her friends off Mesa Butte, land they consider sacred.

Gabe long ago swore he would never again lose himself to a woman not even one with long dark hair and big eyes that seem to see right through him. But from the moment he first sees Kat, the attraction he feels is undeniable. Appalled by what he has been ordered to do, he's determined to get to the bottom of recent events at Mesa Butte and to keep Kat safe.

But asking questions can be dangerous almost as dangerous as risking one's heart. And soon Kat and Gabe's passion for the truth and each other makes them targets for those who would do anything, even kill, to keep Native Americans off their sacred land.

Author: Saskia Walker
Title: Rampant
Series: Unknown
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: April 2010
Received for Review from author

Possession is only half the fun...

The moment she arrives at her rented vacation cottage nestled in Scotland, Zoë Daniels feels it--an arousal so powerful she's compelled to surrender to the unusually forceful carnal desires...with nearly anyone who crosses her path. Crawford Logan, the boat builder with the wayward grin. The devilish restaurateur Cain Davot, who seems to know more about Zoë than he lets on. And even her sexy neighbor Grayson Murdoch, whose eyes delve deep into her soul as he explores every inch of her body.

Yet there's something unsettling about the way the locals watch her, something eerie about these overwhelming encounters. Zoë knows she's not quite in control of herself and begins to wonder if there's any truth to the legend of Annabel McGraw, a powerful, promiscuous eighteenth-century witch who once owned the cottage, and whose spirit is rumored to affect anyone who stays there. Zoë doesn't believe in anything that even hints at the occult, but now strange visions are turning frightening...and only one man's touch can bring her back to earth.

Author: Jaci Burton
Title: Bound, Branded & Brazen
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Erotic Romance
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: March 2010
Bought (via The Book Depository)

BOUND BY PASSION, BRANDED BY LOVE, BRAZEN ENOUGH TO TAKE IT ALL…
In the wilds of Oklahoma, three sisters have a hot date with destiny. Valerie, Brea, and Jolene McMasters reunite on the family ranch that should have been called the Bar Nothing…

BOUND…
When Valerie left for the big city, she kissed her foreman husband, Mason, goodbye—along with the best sex she ever had. Now, seeing him brings back sizzling memories. But their rekindled fire threatens to burn them both.

BRANDED…
Watching Gage wrangle untamed horses with a gentle but firm touch leaves Brea hot and bothered. But can she live out her fantasy with a man who may ask more than she’s willing to give?

BRAZEN…
Ranch hand Walker Morgan can’t afford to lose his job by getting too close to his new boss, Jolene, no matter how much she tempts him. But Jolene’s prepared to take the first step, because what Jolene wants, Jolene gets. And Jolene wants Walker.

Author: Christie Craig
Title: Shut Up and Kiss Me
Series: Unknown
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: June 2010
Won from Dorchester Publishing (via Twitter) and sent to me by publisher for review

Photojournalist Shala Winters already had her hands full bringing tourism to this backward, podunk little town, but her job just got tougher. Pictures can say a thousand words, and one of Shala’s is screaming bloody murder. Now she has to entrust a macho, infuriating lawman with her life—but she’ll never trust him with her heart.

Trusted or not, Sky Gomez isn’t about to let a killer get his hands on Shala’s Nikon—or any of her more comely assets, for that matter. Her mouth might move faster than a Piney Woods roadrunner, but all he can think about is how good it must taste…and how she’ll never escape true love.

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

During my vacation I didn't receive many books...This is a direct consequence of the tight book budget I am on since January, which is a consequence of losing my job and being forced to get unemployment benefits which are much lower than my salary was. I am now forced to make choices and think before I click the buy buttons at my favorite online bookstores. Let's hope I find a new job soon so I can go off this book budget, because I really don't like this :(

Author: Sara Lindsey
Title: Promise Me Tonight
Series: Weston Family Series, book 1
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: February 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

The Weston siblings have been blessed with Shakespearean names and an affinity for impropriety. Prepare to fall in love while discovering how the Westons are won.

ISABELLA IS DETERMINED TO MARRY JAMES…
Isabella Weston has loved James Sheffield for as long as she can remember. Her come-out ball seems the prefect chance to make him see her in a new light.

JAMES IS DETERMINED NEVER TO MARRY…
James is stunned to find the impish girl he once knew has blossomed into a sensual goddess. And if he remembers his lessons, goddesses always spell trouble for mortal men.

A COMPROMISE IS CLEARLY NECESSARY.
When Izzie kisses James, her artless ardor turns to a masterful seduction that drives him mad with desire. But, no stranger to heartbreak, James is determined never to love, and thus never to lose. Can Isabella convince him that a life without love might be the biggest loss of all?

Author: Allison Brennan, Roxanne St. Claire and Karin Tabke
Title: What You Can't See
Series: Anthology
Genre: Suspense
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2008
Won via Allison Brennan

THREE GRIPPING TALES
FROM TODAY'S BRIGHTEST STARS
OF DANGER AND SEDUCTION

Allison Brennan - Deliver Us From Evil (prequel to Seven Deadly Sins series)
Demonologist Anthony Zaccardi can't save the twelve priests brutally slaughtered at a California mission, but he's determined to send the killer -- an ancient demon -- back to hell. And when tough, sexy local sheriff Skye McPherson refuses to believe something supernatural is at work, Anthony realizes that to "Deliver Us From Evil" he must first win Skye's trust, then her heart.

Roxanne St. Claire - Reason to Believe (part of the Bullet Catcher series)
Popular TV psychic Arianna Killian's conversations with the dead have earned her the attention of a killer who fears her abilities, and Bullet Catcher Chase Ryker is the skeptical bodyguard assigned to protect her. æWhen the messages turn deadly, they are given a "Reason to Believe" in life after death...and love...after all.

Karin Tabke - Redemption
After a fatal car crash, bad boy cop Zach Garret's descent into hell is interrupted by an unusual deal for "Redemption." All Zach has to do is return to earth as a warrior sworn to defend his ex-fianc?e Danica Keller, the unknowing keeper of a power coveted by the forces of darkness. But even harder than keeping Danica alive that long is convincing her to give a second chance to the man who once betrayed her.

Author: Lora Leigh
Title: Nauti Deceptions
Series: Nauti Series, book 5
Genre: Erotic Romance
Format:Tradesize Paperback
Release date: February 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

Caitlyn "Rogue" Walker left her life in Boston to become a teacher in a small Kentucky town. But her dream was shattered when she was framed in a sex scandal. Refusing to be run out of town, Caitlyn shed the identity she had and became Rogue.

Sheriff Zeke Mayes knows there's more to her than meets the eye, though what meets the eye is pretty smoking. He's prepared for a long struggle getting Rogue to drop her defenses-and give in to desire. But soon Zeke will become embroiled in a deadly game that sweeps Rogue up in its wake. And when everything seems to be a matter of life and death, there is no reason to hold back...

Author: Karin Alvtegen
Title: Shadow
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Euro Crime Fiction
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: February 2010
Won via It's A Crime blog, received from the publisher Canongate

In a nondescript apartment block in Stockholm, most of the residents are elderly. Usually a death is a sad but straightforward event. But sometimes a resident will die and there are no friends or family to contact. This is when Marianne Folkesson arrives, employed by the state to close up a life with dignity and respect. Gerda Persson has lain dead in her apartment for three days before Marianne is called.

When she arrives, she finds the apartment tidy and ordered. Gerda's life seems to have been quite ordinary. Until Marianne opens the freezer and finds it full of books, neatly stacked and wrapped in clingfilm, a thick layer of ice covering them. They are all by Axel Ragnerfeldt, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, with handwritten dedications to Gerda from the author. What story do these books have to tell, about Gerda, and more importantly about Ragnerfeldt, a man whose fame is without precedent in the nation's cultural life, but seldom gives interviews?

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

Author: Hank Phillippi Ryan
Title: Prime Time
Series: Charlotte McNally, book 1
Genre: Mystery
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: 2007 (re-release in 2009)
Bought via The Book Depository

Could an innocent e-mail offer really result in murder, mayhem and a multimillion-dollar fraud ring? The last person to ask is dead, but that won't keep Charlotte McNally from poking around. Face it, in the cutthroat world of television journalism, this seasoned reporter knows that she'd better pull out all the stops or kiss her cushy job (and that means her life) goodbye.

But all too soon her investigation leads her straight to Josh Gelston, who is a little too a lot too handsome. Could she trust a word he said? Charlie might have a nose for news, but men are a whole other story. Which means she is putting her job, life and heart on the line.…

Author: Allison Brennan
Title: Original Sin
Series: The Seven Deadly Sins, book 1
Genre: Supernatural Thriller
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Received for Review from Meryl L. Moss Media Relations

Haunted by chilling memories of demonic possession and murder, Moira O'Donnell has spent seven years hunting down her mother, Fiona, whose command of black magic has granted her unprecedented control of the underworld. Now Moira's global search has led her to a small California town that's about to become hell on earth.

Tormented by his own terrifying past and driven by powers he can't explain, ex-seminarian Rafe Cooper joins Moira's dangerous quest. But Fiona is one devilish step ahead. Hungry for greater power, eternal youth, and stunning beauty, the sorceress is unleashing upon the mortal world the living incarnations of the Seven Deadly Sins.

Together with a demonologist, a tough female sheriff, and a pair of star-crossed teenagers, Moira and Rafe are humanity's last chance to snatch salvation from the howling jaws of damnation.

Author: Kristan Higgins
Title: The Next Best Thing
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: February 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

Lucy Lang isn't looking for fireworks...

She's looking for a nice, decent man. Someone who'll mow the lawn, flip chicken on the barbeque, teach their future children to play soccer. But most important... someone who won't inspire the slightest stirring in her heart...or anywhere else. A young widow, Lucy can't risk that kind of loss again. But sharing her life with a cat named Fat Mikey and the Black Widows at the family bakery isn't enough either. So it's goodbye to Ethan, her hot but entirely inappropriate "friend with privileges" and hello to a man she can marry.

Too bad Ethan Mirabelli isn't going anywhere. As far as he's concerned, what she needs might be right under her nose. But can he convince her that the next best thing can really be forever?

Author: Jill Shalvis
Title: Slow Heat
Series: Pacific Heat, book 2
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: February 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

After a woman claims she’s pregnant with Wade O’Riley’s love child, Major League Baseball’s most celebrated catcher and ladies’ man is slapped on the wrist by management and ordered to improve his image. His enforcer is the team’s publicist, the tough and sexy Samantha McNead.

When Wade needs a date for a celebrity wedding, Sam steps up to the plate as his “girlfriend.” But given her secret crush on him and that one awkward night a year ago in a stuck elevator with too much scotch, the whole thing is an exercise in sexual tension.

Wade is thrilled when the pretense turns into an unexpected night of hot passion. But the next day Sam is back to her cool self. As a catcher, Wade’s used to giving the signals, not struggling to read them. Now, to win the love of his “pretend” girlfriend, he needs a homerun–even it involves stealing a few bases…

I had the pleasure to receive an e-ARC of this book for review but of course had to order the print book too. You can read my review of this book here

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren


Author: Shiloh Walker
Title: Broken
Series: Sequel to FRAGILE
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Printed galleys (will be released in Tradesize Paperback)
Release date: March 2, 2010
Received for Review/Won in an ARC contest at the author's blog

The national bestselling author of Fragile returns with a luscious new blend of sex and suspense.

The hardest battles are fought within...

Quinn Rafferty is working as a bounty hunter for a private detective agency in St. Louis when a new neighbor catches his eye. He's drawn to her-but he has his own soul to mend before he can worry about anyone else.

Sarah McElyea is on the run, but not for the usual reasons a woman goes on the lam. She has a plan for her future. And as much as she finds herself attracted to her gruff, tough neighbor, she can't risk telling him the secrets she's hiding.

But Quinn must get closer to Sarah when she turns out to be the target of his new missing persons case, and both Quinn and Sarah will have to expose their true feelings-as well as their fragile hearts-if their love is to survive.

Author: Ben Elton
Title: Chart Throb
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: 2006
Bought at a book fair

"Chart Throb" is the ultimate pop quest. Ninety five thousand hopefuls. Three judges. Just one winner. And that's Colin Simms, the genius behind the show. Colin always wins because Colin writes the rules. But this year, as he sits smugly in judgement upon the mingers, clingers and blingers whom he has pre-selected in his carefully scripted 'search' for a star, he has no idea that the rules are changing. The 'real' is about to be put back into 'reality' television and Colin and his fellow judges (the nation's favourite mum and the other bloke) are about to become ex-factors themselves. Ben Elton, author of "Popcorn and Dead Famous" returns to blistering comic satire with a savagely hilarious deconstruction of the world of modern television talent shows. "Chart Throb" is about one winner and a whole bunch of losers.

Author: Megan Hart & Lauren Dane
Title: Taking Care of Business
Series: Prequel to NO RESERVATIONS
Genre: Erotic Romance
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: 2008
Bought via The Bookdepository

One conference, two friends, two men who know how to take care of business.

After leaving the wrong man, Leah Griffin’s not ready to look for the right one. All she wants is to survive the conference she’s planning and spend some time with her best friend Kate Edwards. She’s not expecting the conference services manager to be so tall, dark and handsome…or so eager to please. It’s Brandon Long’s job to make Leah happy, but after a scorching interlude in her hotel room, neither can deny business has become pleasure.

Smart, driven and successful attorney, Katherine Edwards has spent her life making the right choices. Directly counter to those right choices, she’s involved in a long distance, secret love affair with a co-worker. Charles Dixon is a bad choice she can’t help but make – over and over. A conference and a promotion bring Kate back to Pennsylvania and suddenly, Dix wants far more than a few nights in random hotel rooms. He wants something permanent and Katherine has to figure out if sometimes a wrong choice isn’t exactly what a woman needs.

Author: Larissa Ione
Title: Ecstasy Unveiled
Series: Demonica Series, book 4
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

A DEMON ENSLAVED
Lore is a Seminus half-breed demon who has been forced to act as his dark master's assassin. Now to earn his freedom and save his sister's life, he must complete one last kill. Powerful and ruthless, he'll stop at nothing to carry out this deadly mission.

AN ANGEL TEMPTED
Idess is an earthbound angel with a wild side, sworn to protect the human Lore is targeting. She's determined to thwart her wickedly handsome adversary by any means necessary-even if that means risking her vow of eternal chastity. But what begins as a simple seduction soon turns into a passion that leaves both angel and demon craving complete surrender.
Torn between duty and desire, Lore and Idess must join forces as they battle their attraction for each other. Because an enemy from the past is rising again-one hellbent on vengeance and unthinkable destruction.

Author: Christine Feehan
Title: Street Game
Series: Ghostwalkers Series, book 8
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought via The Bookdespository

For Mack McKinley and his team of GhostWalker killing machines, urban warfare is an art. But despite a hard-won knowledge of the San Francisco streets, Mack knows from experience that too many things can still go wrong. Danger was just another part of the game - and now he's come face-to-face with a woman who can play just as tough.

She's Jaimie, a woman with a sapphire stare so potent it can destroy a man. Years ago she and Mack had a history - volatile, erotic and electric. Then she vanished. But now she's walked back into Mack's life again, as a spy with more secrets than are good for her. Against all odds, she's hooking up with Mack one more time to take on an enemy that could destroy them both, or bring them back together in one hot, no-holds-barred adrenaline rush.

Author: Annette Blair
Title: Naked Dragon
Series: Works like Magick Series, book 1
Genre: Paranormal Romanctic Comedy
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought via The Bookdepository

FROM THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE:
In Salem, human magick has thinned the veil between the planes to a permeable mist, forming a portal into the city, allowing time travelers and chameleons of the universe to enter there.

Bastian Dragonelli, once a Roman warrior turned dragon, is the first of his legion to be returned to earth, a man. So his brothers can also be saved and sent to earth, Bastian must reclaim the magick of Andra, Goddess of Hope, who sacrificed hers to transform him. He must seek his heart mate and make her quest his own. But the dark, powerful Killian, Sorceress of Chaos, who turned his legion into dragons and skewed his transition back into a man, is hot on his heels.

McKenna Greylock, the last non-magickal descendant of Ciarra, a witch who survived Salem's hanging times, needs a jack-of-all-trades to help turn her dilapidated Victorian into a bed and breakfast so she doesn't lose her home and her family's centuries-old legacy.

Enter McKenna's cousin, Vivica Quinlan, Ciarra's most magickal descendent, owner of the Works Like Magick Employment Agency. Vivica has a gift for matching human employers with magickal employees. Like Ciarra before her, Vivica knows when magickal supernatural ancients are about to arrive. She greets them and acclimates them to life, and to making a living, in Salem.

Besides Killian's threatening presence, Bastian's life is also complicated by McKenna, his guardian dragon, a troublemaking fairy, and a case of culture shock. Bastian also has a problem with his man lance. It won't behave at all the way he remembered it should. Not at all...

Author: Judi McCoy
Title: One Night with a Goddess
Series: Goddess Series, book 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance (with a dash of Paranormal)
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: May 2007
Bought at a book fair

I admit life's been very sweet on Mount Olympus these past few centuries . . . until now. Zeus is convinced that I'm not doing enough as the Muse of Happiness, and I have to prove myself by spending a year among mortals. Now I'm working as a wedding planner. In Chicago.

Helping these lovebirds find happily-ever-after is one thing, but putting up with Matthew Castleberry is another story. The sexy doctor thinks I'm out to fleece his grandmother, my boss, and he's made it very clear he intends to keep an eye on me. His gaze may be more heated than wary, with promises of sensual delights . . . so perhaps I'll give him one unforgettable night with a goddess. But what if one night isn't enough for either of us? If I fall in love, I might never get back home to Mount Olympus!

Author: Julie Garwood
Title: The Secret
Series: Highlands' Lairds, book 1
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: May 1992
Bought at a book fair

Judith Hampton was as beautiful as she was proud and loyal. Her dear Scottish friend from childhood was about to give birth, and Judith had promised to be at her side. But there was another, private reason for the journey from her bleak English home to the Highlands: to meet the father she had never known, the Laird Maclean. Nothing prepared her, however, for the sight of the Scottish barbarian who was to escort her into his land...Iain Maitland, Laird of his clan, a man more powerfully compelling than any she had ever encountered.

In a spirited clash of wills and customs, Judith reveled in the melting bliss of Iain's searching kisses, his passionate caresses. Perplexed by her sprightly defiance, bemused by her tender nature, Iain felt his soul growing into the light and warmth of her love. Surely nothing would wrench her from the affection and trust of Iain and his clan...not even the truth about her father, a devastating secret that could shatter the boldest alliance, and the most glorious of loves!

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

Due to illness this week's in my mailbox won't be in the elaborate format I normally use to do it and I'll just list the covers for you. I promise next week I'll be back to my usual format with the blurbs and book info.

ARCs Received for review:

• Random by Craig Robertson was received through BookChickCity for the Thriller/Suspense Challenge
• Hold on Tight by Stephanie Tyler was sent by the author for review.

Won:

• Scoundrel's Kiss by Carrie Lofty I won in a blogcontest

Bought via the Bookdepository:

• Guilty Pleasure by Lora Leigh
• Fragile by Shiloh Walker
• What a Scoundrel Wants by Carrie Lofty
• Midnight Resolutions by Kathleen O'Reilly
• Face Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan
• Air Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan
• I'm Watching You by Mary Burton
• Dead Ringer by Mary Burton
• Dying Scream by Mary Burton

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

Author: Jane Fallon
Title: Getting Rid of Matthew
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Chicklit
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: 2007
Belated birthday present from friends who couldn't make it to my party in August.
I received the Dutch Translation of this book

What to do if Matthew, your secret lover of the past four years, finally decides to leave his wife Sophie (and their two daughters) and move into your flat, just when you're thinking that you might not want him anymore...

Plan A - stop shaving your armpits, and your bikini line; tell him you have a moustache that you wax every six weeks; stop having sex with him; pick holes in the way he dresses; don't brush you teeth, or your hair, or the stray hag-whisker that grows out of your chin; buy incontinence pads and leave them lying around.
Plan B - accidentally on purpose bump into his wife Sophie; give yourself a fake name and identity; befriend Sophie; actually begin to really like Sophie; snog Matthew's son (whose the same age as you by the way. You're not a paedophile); buy a cat and give it a fake name and identity; befriend Matthew's children. Watch your whole plan go absolutely horribly wrong.

"Getting Rid of Matthew" isn't as easy as it seems, but along the way, Helen will forge an unlikely friendship, find real love and realize that nothing ever goes exactly to plan...

Author: Beverley Kendall
Title: Sinful Surrender
Series: Unnamed "sexy Victorian-set" Series - book 1
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Received for Review from author

Millicent “Missy” Armstrong is entering her fourth London Season, but not for lack of suitors. Since her debut three years ago, Missy has received twenty marriage proposals. But she is interested in only one man—her brother’s best friend, James Rutherford. As a child, Missy looked up to James. As a grown up, her admiration has blossomed into the longings of a beautiful, sensuous woman—and she won’t rest until James admits his love—and desire—for her…

James Rutherford rues the day he let his physical weaknesses get the better of him by kissing Missy. His best friend has made it clear that Missy is off limits, and though he’s avoided her for three years, he hasn’t forgotten the feel of her soft lips pressed against his—and it seems neither has she. For no matter how much James tries to discourage Missy, he keeps winding up in her arms, sharing heated caresses that promise the most delirious pleasure...

Author: Stephanie Tyler
Title: Too Hot Too Hold
Series: Hold trilogy, book 2
Genre: Romantic Suspense/Military Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via Van Stockum)

HE'S AN ELITE NAVY SEAL LIVING A RISKY DOUBLE LIFE.
SHE'S THE GORGEOUS REPORTER HOT ON HIS TRAIL.

Nick Devane's life is one big classified secret. Until Kaylee Smith busts his covert world wide open, threatening to blow his cover. Digging around where she doesn't belong could get them both killed.especially when the beautiful journalist uncovers top secret information that could set off a global disaster if it falls into the wrong hands. Nick can't let that happen, even if he has to battle deadly mercenaries and an irresistible attraction that is all consuming..

Kaylee didn't expect her search for her missing ex-husband to lead to this sexy and dangerous warrior. Now she's teamed up with Nick on a mission that takes them into deepest Africa - and into the middle of a massive government cover-up. With rogue agents hot on their trail, Kaylee's going to unearth all Nick's secrets. Before they both vanish without a trace. Before the passion burning between them sets off an explosion no one may survive.

Author: Lauren Dane
Title: Coming Undone
Series: Brown Siblings, book 2
Genre: Erotic Romance/Sexy Contemporary
Format: Tradesize Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via The Bookdepository)

KEEPING IT TOGETHER
Brody Brown has always been responsible for others. After his parents’ death, he gave up a promising artistic career to care for his younger brother and sister. Now, with his siblings grown, Brody owns his own business, has a nice house, makes a nice living, and for the first time in years he’s on his own.

Elise Sorenson has come to Seattle with her young daughter to find peace. After years as a world-famous ballerina—(and just as many years in a marriage-gone-bad)—she’s looking for neither love nor attention. But she finds both in the handsome, honest man who befriends her with no strings attached.

More than friends, Brody and Elise discover in each other what they need—wild, physical passion without commitment. But it’ll take a shadow from Elise’s past to make them look beyond what they need—to what they truly desire.

Author: Kat Martin
Title: Reese's Bride
Series: Bride Trilogy, book 2
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via The Bookdepository)

Wounded in battle, Major Reese Dewar returns to England - but his injuries are nothing compared to his shattered heart

Years ago, love-struck Reese departed his home at Briarwood with a promise from raven-haired Elizabeth Clemens that she would make a life with him upon his return. But mere months later, she married the Earl of Aldridge, attaining wealth and status Reese could never match. Memories of that betrayal make his homecoming far more bitter than sweet.

Seeing Elizabeth on his doorstep dressed in widow's garb twists the knife even deeper. But fear for her young son's safety has overcome her pride: she begs Reese for protection from those who would see the boy dead to possess his fortune. He agrees to an uneasy alliance, sensing Elizabeth still harbors deep secrets - and Reese knows that he's placing himself in danger.of losing his heart all over again.

Author: Jo Davis
Title: Hidden Fire
Series: The Firefighters of Station Five, book 3
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: December 2009
Received as a Christmas gift from hubby. It wasn't included in my Christmas edition of ON MY WISHLIST because hubby got me a book then that I already had received so we exchanged it for this one

The scorching hot firemen of Station Five are known for cranking up the heat. Sexy rogue Julian Salvatore is no exception…

He’s more than earned his reputation as a ladies’ man, but chasing women has also been a way to outrun a terrible secret from his past. Then he meets defense attorney Grace McKenna, a beautiful ice queen who’s more than willing to give Julian her body, even if he can’t seem to melt her heart.

In the blazing heat of their passion, Grace and Julian start to let down their guard—just as a series of grisly murders rocks Nashville and Julian is targeted by the killer. As the firefighter comes face to face with his demons, he and Grace must race to uncover the terrible truth—or become the next victims.

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren

I take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year!! I hope 2010 is filled with love, joy, health, everything that makes you happy and many books and pleasurable reading hours :)

For me 2010 has begun as 2009 was all year through and ended: with receiving books in the mail!

Author: Kristan Higgins
Title: Too Good to Be True
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: February 2009
Bought (via The Bookdepository)

When Grace Emerson's ex-fiancé starts dating her younger sister, extreme measures are called for. To keep everyone from obsessing about her love life, Grace announces that she's seeing someone. Someone wonderful. Someone handsome. Someone completely made up. Who is this Mr. Right? Someone...exactly unlike her renegade neighbor, Callahan O'Shea. Well, someone with his looks, maybe. His hot body. His knife-sharp sense of humor. His smarts and big heart.

Whoa. No. Callahan O'Shea is not her perfect man! Not with his unsavory past. So why does Mr. Wrong feel so...right?

Author: Debra Mullins
Title: To Ruin the Duke
Series: I suspect this is a stand alone novel
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: June 2009
Won in a contest at Courtney Milan's Blog

THE DISREPUTABLE DUKE
All of London is abuzz with the shocking exploits of Thornton Matherton, Duke of Wyldehaven, a man as sinful and wild as his name. He plays fast and loose with money, drink, and women. Or does he? An impostor has tarnished Thorton's good name, and the real duke will not rest until he has proven his virtue.

A RIGHTEOUS LADY
Abandoned by her aristocratic father when she was a child, Miranda Fontaine despises the nobility. Despite her distrust, she visits the Duke of Wyldehaven on an urgent mission. Miranda will do whatever it takes to pin down the notorious duke even if it means seducing him herself.

PASSION'S RUIN
Desperate to escape the web of deceit and clear his name, Thornton cannot bear the distraction of Miranda's supple skin and alluring eyes. Her beauty will be his undoing...and her bed will be the site of his most wicked ruin...

Author: Anna Campbell
Title: Captive of Sin
Series: Again I suspect this is a stand alone novel
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: November 2009
Won over at Leontine's Blog in her first FROM THE NETHERLANDS, WITH LOVE giveaway

He pledged his honor to keep her safe...
Returning home to Cornwall after unspeakable tragedy, Sir Gideon Trevithick comes upon a defiant beauty in danger, and vows to protect her whatever the cost. He's dismayed to discover that she's none other than Lady Charis Weston, England's wealthiest heiress-and that the only way to save her from the violent stepbrothers determined to steal her fortune is to wed her himself! Now Gideon must hide the dark secrets of his life from the bride he desires more with every heartbeat.

She promised to show him how to love - and desire - again...
Charis has heard all about Gideon, the dangerously handsome hero with the mysterious past. She's grateful for his help, but utterly unwilling to endure a marriage of convenience-especially to a man whose touch leaves her breathless. Desperate to drive him mad with passion, she would do anything to make Gideon lose control-and fall captive to irresistible, undeniable sin.

Author: Courtney Milan
Title: Proof By Seduction
Series: series TO BE NAMED, book 1
Genre: Historical Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via The Bookdepository)

SHE IS HIS LAST CHANCE FOR A FUTURE OF HAPPINESS . . .
Jenny Keeble has never let her humble upbringing stop her. She’s made her way in the world as a fortune teller, one who convinces her clients her predictions are correct by telling them what they most want to hear. Business is good… until she meets her match in the form of Gareth Carhart, the Marquess of Blakely, a scientist and sworn bachelor.
HE JUST DOESN’T KNOW IT YET.
Broodingly handsome, Gareth is appalled to discover his cousin has fallen under the spell of "Madame Esmerelda," and he vows to prove her a fraud. But his unexpected attraction to the fiery enchantress defies logic. Jenny disrupts every facet of Gareth's calculated plan— until he can’t decide whether to ruin her or claim her for his own. Now, as they engage in a passionate battle of wills, two lonely souls must choose between everything they know . . . and the boundless possibilities of love.

Author: Sarah Mayberry
Title: Her Secret Fling
Series: Harlequin Blaze
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Category Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via The Bookdepository)

TALK ABOUT OFFICE POLITICS!
Jake Stevens—star reporter and celebrated literary genius—is a snake. How else to explain the way he turns Poppy Birmingham's hero worship into loathing with a single conversation? So what if she's got a lot to learn about journalism? Aren't they coworkers now? On the same team? Jake can take his attitude and…

Then during a job-related road trip, their relationship goes from antagonistic to hedonistic in no time flat. And suddenly Poppy can't think of anything more delicious than having a secret fling with Jake. But with all this intensity, can she really keep it no-strings-attached?

Author: Gena Showalter/Maggie Shayne/Susan Krinard
Title: Heart of Darkness (ANTHOLOGY)
Series: only know that the Gena Showalter story is part 6 of the LORDS OF THE UNDERWORLD series
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Release date: January 2010
Bought (via The Bookdespository)

The Darkest Angel by Gena Showalter/A Lords of the Underworld tale
An iron-willed demon assassin, the angel Lysander has never known lust - until he meets Bianka. Spawned from the bloodline of Lucifer, the beautiful but deadly Harpy is determined to lead the pure-hearted Lysander into temptation..

Love Me to Death by Maggie Shayne
Twenty-two years ago four teenage boys were convicted of a young girl's murder. Now, in the form of a beautiful woman, the "victim" is seeking vengeance. And only one man dares to dig into the past to uncover its secrets. and set her free.

Lady of the Nile by Susan Krinard
Lady Tameri believes herself to be the reincarnation of an ancient Egyptian princess, and Leo Erskine has set out to prove her wrong.never dreaming that the two of them are about to discover a prophecy that will bind them together forever.

I also received my order from Dorchester Publishing. They had a 70%-off sale in December and as I'm a sucker for bargains (who isn't?) I grabbed my chance to order some books for very little money.

Anne Marsh (The Hunt)
Christie Craig (Divorced, Desperate and Deceived - Divorced Desperate and Dating) *)
*I also ordered Divorced, Desperate and Delicious but because of a little mix-up it wasn't included in the package. After an email to DP's customer service I was told it will be sent to me soon!
Kate Angell (Strike Zone - Squeeze Play - Curveball - Sliding Home)

What books did you get in the last days of 2009 and first days of 2010?