The Fires of Paradise

Brenda Joyce is a new author to me but I am quickly buying up everything she has written. This book is so different from the typical prudish english girl and the "rake". Lucy is headstrong and follows her heart, ignoring her mind, instead of the other way around. Shoz is mean-tempered and cruel, but you come to love him as much as Lucy. I laughed, I cried and I hated for it to end! I read constantly - Jane Feather, Jude Deveroux, Elizabeth Lowell, Nora Roberts, Jayne Ann Krentz... But Joyce is fast becoming my favorite - her detail on the historical part is so real! I can see myself there, feel the heat in Death Valley.. smell the food in the kitchen. I can't say enough good things about this book!

Of all of the Bragg saga novels that Brenda Joyce has written, Fires of Paradise is the most heartstopping, erotic and sensual. It combines romance, passion and history with flair. As a historian, I was enthralled not only by the settings of the story, but by the accuracy with which Joyce portrayed the Spanish-American War, along with the troubles of Cuba. The characters of Shoz Cooper and Lucy Bragg are two of the most well-rounded of characters Joyce has thus introduced. Their love story is one of pure enjoyment to read over and over. It is the story of the spoiled little rich girl who falls in love with the mysterios stranger with a dubious past. Of course, Shoz was not good enough for Lucy, according to her family. It amazes me that a number of my friends and colleagues who read romances have not enjoyed perusing the works of this extremely talented writer.

Shoz and Lucy were attracted to each other right away. They are so perfect for each other. Lucy was brave, going after what she wanted and the consequences be damned. She follows Shoz from the borders of Mexico to the hot fires of Death Valley, to the turbulence of war in Cuba, to find Paradise in Texas. She throws away all her sophisticated life in New York just for the love of a outlaw with no future. Shoz was the brave half-breed that looked mean, vicious, and dangerous on the outside, but was a kind, soft heart real hero inside that helped liberty for the people. Although he knew Lucy, the rich princess was out of his reach, but he would walk the fires of paradise for her when he risk his life to save the only woman who broke through his tough mean heart and teach him the meaning of love. This one is definitely one of the hottest Bragg series emotionally and physically that will leave your pages going up in flames.

I can't say enought good things about this book. I read is several years ago and it is still ringing in my head. A true sizzler, this book will have you loosening up your clothes and taking cold showers!! While the sex is wonderful the story itself is terrific! Fires in Paradise combines sizzling sex, compassion, family loyalty, and a true tenderness of heart all in one book!! Shozkay is one of the best hero's ever! Read it and prepare a spot on your keepers shelf!!!!

From Texas, to Mexico, to Cuba to New York, this book takes you everywhere. Shoz and Lucy... what a passionate couple. I stayed up all night reading this book. I loved it! I have read all of Brenda Joyce's books and she is ASTOUNDING AS USUAL! I just bought "THE RIVAL" and have no doubt in my mind it will rate "5 Stars"!