Awakened by a Kiss
by Lila DiPasqua
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Release Date: August 3, 2010
Every now and then a debut author knocks my socks off with her first novel, and Lila DiPasqua has done just that with her offering of AWAKENED BY A KISS. Ms. DiPasqua has taken the classic fairy tales of your childhood and transformed those beloved tales into sensual stories the adult woman in you will find satisfying and refreshing. AWAKENED BY A KISS is a collection of three such stories.
Sleeping Beau is based on Sleeping Beauty. Adrien Christophe d’Aspe de Bourbon, an illegitimate son of the King, dreams of the sensual night of passion he shared with a vibrant redhead five years ago. Discovering Catherine is attending a house party given by a mutual friend, Adrien makes it his objective to have Catherine back in his bed. Adrien knows Catherine’s sensual kisses will awaken his libido, but he doesn’t count on her love awakening the desires of his heart.
“Catherine awoke to the sound of a steady heartbeat beneath her ear and two strong arms around her. Her cheek resting on a very masculine, solid chest, she peeked up to see Adrien fast asleep. Carefully, she rose onto her elbow and allowed herself the simple pleasure of gazing at him. His cheekbones, straight nose, jaw and kissable mouth were etched forever in her mind. It was incredible, really. She’d envisioned this very visage for years and here he was. In the flesh. In her arms. Not just a fantasy come to life, but a dream come true.”
Little Red Writing is based on Little Red Riding Hood. Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, is one of the King’s Musketeers and has been tasked by the King to discover the identity of a secret author writing salacious stories about the powerful men of France. When his investigation leads to the home of his Grandmother and more particularly to the three sisters living with his Grandmother, Nicolas is determined to win the King’s regard by solving the case quickly, efficiently and by any means necessary. What Nicolas did not count on is his physical and emotional reaction to Anne de Vignon, one of the sisters.
“I love you, Anne. So much. A maddening amount! I came here to do the King’s bidding. I didn’t care about you, your sisters, or the Comtesse. You’re correct there. I wanted to impress the King. I wanted a promotion. All I ever wanted was to rank highly in the Guard. But you, you have a way of affecting me.” He shoved himself off the door. “I have no understanding how you manage it. But you do!”
Bewitching in Boots is based on Puss in Boots. Recently injured while in service to the King, Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, is convalescing at his home when he receives an unexpected and unwanted visitor -- Elisabeth de Roussel, illegitimate daughter of the King. Tristan thinks of Elisabeth as the spoiled brat of the French royalty and is irritated to learn she has requested a favor from the King, to have Tristan teach her how to sword fight. How in the world is Tristan suppose to concentrate on sword fighting when Elisabeth is wearing tight pants and boots up to her knees? As the lessons progress, Tristan sees a different side of Elisabeth and believes she is bewitching in her boots!
“I . . . want you.” She’d never said that to any man and meant it.
“You’re truly going to let me have you?”
“Yes.”
“I warn you, Duchess, once we begin, I’m not going to stop, so if you’re having any qualms . . .”
She shook her head, “No qualms. I won’t stop you.”
The most sensual smile lifted the corner of his perfect mouth. “Excellent. Then you’re mine.” He lowered his head.
AWAKENED BY A KISS is a magnificent debut!!!! Not only was I enchanted by each of the three classic tales which Ms. DiPasqua has turned into delectable fiery tales, but it was so refreshing to have the setting of each of these stories in France. As innocent little girls, we all loved the classic tales of a girl and her prince charming. With a little (well, a lot!) of spice added to these tales, Lila has fashioned a book you will not want to overlook. Run out now and get your copy. Better yet, just click on the Amazon widget below and purchase it right now!!! Believe me, you will not be dissatisfied.
~ Buffie
Great review Buffie
ReplyDeleteI was convinced the other day when Lila visited and now I need to order this book asap.
Have Fun
Helen
Thanks, Helen!! Seeing how you and I generally like the same kinds of books, I think you are really going to love this one!
ReplyDeleteSOLD!! But you already knew that. ;-) Great review, Buffie!
ReplyDeleteI have a copy of Awakened By a Kiss on my tbr and can't wait until I have the time to start reading it...especially after meeting Lila (a total sweetheart) at RWA and listening to Buffie rave about this book!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Andrea! Yep, I knew you would get the book!
ReplyDeletePJ, I hope you find some extra time soon! I think you will really enjoy this book. And you are SO RIGHT -- Lila is a sweetheart!
ReplyDeleteBuffie, I will definitely be buying this book, especially after all of the wonderful things you've said about it. :-)
ReplyDeleteOh wow! Buffie, I'm just so over the moon from this review. I'm thrilled you enjoyed the book---and I love the excerpts you picked! :)
ReplyDeleteIt was such a pleasure meeting both you and PJ. You ladies are just so lovely.
Thank you, Helen, Andrea and Gannon for your wonderful comments! :)
Hugs,
Lila
I read an excerpt while at nationals and I loved what I read. Unfortunately, I didn't get a copy, but I will soon! What a great review!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great review, Buffie!! Another one to add to my never ending list! ;)
ReplyDeleteLila, it was such a treat to read and review your debut!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kellie! Didn't the excerpt just leaving wanting more?
ReplyDeleteHey Trisha! Yep, add this one to the TOP!
ReplyDeleteAwesome review, Buffie!
ReplyDeleteI've definitely added Lila's book to my list. I love finding new authors to read, thanks for highlighting her! :)
Gee, thanks Sarah!!! I *love* debut authors, especially when they are as wonderful as Lila!
ReplyDeleteHave seen this book mentioned in many places. So far everything I have heard about it has been most complimentary.
ReplyDelete