Men of Courage: An Anthology, Harlequin The Hero Collection (Trapped! / Stranded! / Buried!)

First book I’ve listened to on Audio. Still not completely sure I like it. Was different. The story its self was alright. Not sure even what length constitutes long enough for a review but thought I’d give it a shot. I have gotten a couple more stories in Audio to try out when running but have purposefully chosen non-romance as that might be one of the reasons I’m on the fence about audio.

Lori Foster - 1*
The story itself was alright but not very inspired. I didn't like was Rosie, who came across as immature, and I hated the overall 'men are strong and do important work and women belong in the kitchen' feel of this novella.

Donna Kauffman - 5*
I think this is one of the best novellas I've read. The 1st part of the story was exciting and the 2nd part, in which Haley and Brett try to work out their relationship when they are no longer in danger, feels real. I love everything about this novella, the whole concept and execution of the story, the author's voice and Haley and Brett's characters and relationship. This entry alone was worth the price of the book.

Jill Shalvis - 3*
I always like this author's voice and it was a nice show more story, but for me the realization that they loved each other was unbelievable. It came too soon (within 24 hrs of meeting) plus they both claim they are not interested in a lasting relationship and all of a sudden they love each other. The whole thing feels hurried. show less

#1: Trapped by Lori Foster

Ethan and Rosie have been close friends for a very long time. When he wakes up one morning to a half naked Rosie in his bed, he can't remember how either of them got there. Did they or didn't they? He sure hopes not because she's his friend, but unfortunately she's also the sister of the cad who took off with Ethan's fiance, Michelle. Rosie has always had a thing for Ethan. He doesn't remember the night they spent together so she uses it as an excuse to break down his walls and make him hers.

It takes all of his friends to point out the obvious (she's a woman, not some asexual being, and she wants him) before he gives in. Of course she's a virgin, and how dumb must he (or any manwhore) feel when she tells him show more that she was basically saving herself for him? In the post-coital bliss that follows, she asks him when they can get married? WTF?

I liked Ethan and hated Rosie. I know she's wanted him badly for a very long time, but the fact that she "had a key made for him months ago" is a little ... creepy. She's described by everyone as being pushy or bossy - I think she's obsessed.

A little fiery drama, a compromise later and a HEA, yay. This story would get 2 stars from me. Maybe the actual series by this author will be better than this snippet.


#2: Buried by Donna Kauffman

Haley is the "poor little rich girl". A string of poor choices in her love life and an ex who nearly emptied out her bank account have left her a little bitter. The only companion she cares about now is her dog named Digger. On her way home from a trip, she hears that an earthquake hit very close to her house. She fears for her dogs safety and beats feet to get to him. When she arrives at the scene, she looks for someone to help her. That's where she stumbles across Brett, the younger brother of one of her past loves. He's always had a thing for her, but her being 19 at the time to his 16 put the kibosh on that. Now he might have a chance with her, if the twit doesn't get herself killed or anyone else. And here is where the story goes downhill like a landslide.

She's so desperate to get to her dog that she sneaks herself among rescue workers and Brett and his rescue K9 have to chase after her, then she runs headlong towards her house, which is on unstable ground.

Edit Okay, so the story redeemed itself towards the end, mostly due to Brett's charm and humor. Haley actually becomes likeable as well as she opens up to him and allows him into her heart. 2.5 stars. I'd give it 3 stars if it wasn't for the lousy first impression she made. Brett totally steals the spotlight in this story.


#3: Stranded by Jill Shalvis

This one was a total waste of time. Molly was a blubbering mess and so darn needy. Matt was closed off and cold. I didn't jive with either of them and their too fast ILYs wasn't convincing. It felt forced just to give the characters an excuse to stay together. Meh. 1 star.

Funny, but the second story that I started out not liking turned out to be the best one. show less