Reviews
 
for Mardi Ballou’s fun and sizzling romances



Cover                                Noel, No Way - reviews

5 NYMPHS: ...inventive vampire spin on A Christmas Carol. Ms. Ballou has not only presented an engaging storyline but has also successfully packed amazing depth into this heartfelt spin-off... urges you never to forget the spirit of the celebrations and the true meaning of being with a loved one.”
   -- Bramble Nymph, Literary Nymphs Reviews Only       Read the full review

5 ANGELS: ...not at all the way Dickens imagined it!  ... wonderfully entertaining... It isn’t monetary greed that is Carlie’s problem but neglect of her relationship to Vincenzo because of pursuing her writing goal. What a unique parallel!”
   -- Stephanie B., Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review




Cover                                Reluctant Goddess - reviews

4 STARS: ...a unique, imaginative, and humorous plot... delightful characters... refreshing to have a heroine that was a little on the large side. Fans of erotic romance will enjoy this one.”
   -- Annie Boling, ReviewYourBook.com       Read the full review







Cover                                Triple Booked - reviews

“...a great erotic read that just flew off the pages. ... Keep it up Mardi, you will always have me as a reader of your great books.”
   -- Nicole Harvey, Paranormal Romance       Read the full review

“...I was enthralled... Ms. Ballou certainly knows how to turn on her readers!”
   -- Marcy Arbitman, Just Erotic Romance Reviews #112






Cover                                Goddess Goodies - reviews

5 BLUE RIBBONS: Grab yourself a treat, sit back, and indulge in this tale of love and betrayal. I found myself completely immersed in Diana’s life and anxious to find out what she’d do once the numbness of Derek’s actions wore off... I couldn’t help but laugh... I don’t normally read many “women’s fiction” labeled stories but I have to tell you this one rocks!”
   -- Chrissy Dionne, Romance Junkies Reviews       Read the full review

4 CUPS: Goddess Goodies is one heavenly read. ...a fantastic modern story that is very character driven. The reader can really feel the pain of what Diana is going through. ...highly recommend this delicious novel.”
   -- Bonnie-Lass, Coffee Time Romance       Read the full review

5 ENCHANTMENTS: ...a fun book to read, and Ms. Ballou truly embodied the spirit of a decadent box of rich chocolate... This one will make you root for...every woman to find love and her true value when she stands on her own two, strong feet. ...definitely one to recommend!”
   -- Zee, Enchanting Reviews      

4.75 OUT OF 5: a great story... a great job adding so many wonderful secondary characters... can’t wait for more of your enchanting tales.”
   -- Melinda, Night Owl Romance       Read the full review



Cover                                Possession - reviews

4 ANGELS: a very heartbreaking tale... Mardi Ballou has impressed me with the longing and emotions of these two characters, including a non-traditional happily ever after that I didn’t see coming. But readers should find Possession to be a true love story in every way.”
   -- Katie, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

“a late 19th-century historical [sic] romance set in the English countryside. ...marvelously atmospheric (the moors, the fogs)... elegant prose.”
   -- Mrs. Giggles       Read the full review


Cover                                TV Bride - reviews

5 ROSES: If you like a good laugh with your contemporary romance, don’t pass up this one... the plot the most imaginative I’ve seen in awhile.  I was cheering along with everyone else for [Nick] to choose the bachelorette least interested in winning – at the beginning. Entertaining and heart warming, TV Bride is a tale told well. Just what the reviewer ordered.”
   -- Quinn, My Book Cravings

4.5 STARS: TV Bride is an excellent swipe at the television reality shows we all love to hate and swear we never watch. But it’s also a story about helping friends, following your heart and being prepared to bend your own self imposed rules to find happiness. I love a book that makes you laugh, and for a couple of hours, allows you dissolve into a romance that is realistic and sweet.”
   -- Janet, Once Upon a Romance       Read the full review

4.5 HEARTS: Bravo for Ms. Ballou’s TV BRIDE. ...a cast of characters who were so much fun to read about. ...better then any reality television show could hope to nail in real life. ...a story that kept this reviewer enthralled into the wee hours of the night. ... a mixture of humor, suspense and romance!”
   -- Tina, Love Romances & More       Read the full review

4 ANGELS: Ms. Ballou demonstrates an innate talent for bringing emotion to the forefront with realism and a dose of laughter. You don’t have to be a fan of reality shows to enjoy the romance TV Bride brings to readers.”
   -- Amanda S., Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

“... a pleasant diversion about friendship and family and taking charge of one’s life... The obstacles Ms. Ballou presents to the characters seem insurmountable and the reader wonders how she’s going to be able to bring Nick and Samantha together in the end... The supporting cast is fun to watch and the friendships that Samantha makes along the way buoy this story along. I enjoyed watching the characters grow and would recommend this -- a great book to take along to the beach.”
   -- Karla Brandenburg, The Road to Romance       Read the full review


Cover                                Tingle Bells - reviews

4 STARS - Sizzling: Mardi Ballou has another winner. Tingle Bells is a feel good erotic romance. With just enough magic and spice to keep the reader going, this is a 4 star treat.”
   -- Kimberley Spinney, EcataRomance       Read the full review

“...packed with sensuality and humor... a quirky tale that showcases the pitfalls of searching for Mr. Right and the love of family, warts and all. And that is a story worthy of the season.”
   -- Isabelle Spencer, RRTErotic       Read the full review

4 CUPS: ...refreshing and different. I appreciate the way Ms. Ballou ties the concepts of home and tradition into this hot tale of love during the holiday season. If you like stories of two men who are totally enamored of each other, then you will enjoy this story of Christmas love.”
   -- Susan, Coffee Time Romance       Read the full review

4 STARS: a solid plot...  great characters... If you are a fan of M/M and family reconciliations (and feuds), then Tingle Bells could be a read you don’t want to miss!”
   -- Elizabeth Marie, Just Erotic Romance Reviews Newsletter #93

“A tightly woven tale, Tingle Bells wraps itself around a reader and doesn’t let go until the last page. I loved the Clancy clan, with all their quirks and problems. The heat between Justin and Ramon is intense, both physically and emotionally. Readers will take delight in Tingle Bells.
   -- Amelia, Joyfully Reviewed       Read the full review


Cover                                Between the Sheets - reviews

4 ANGELS: Dylan and Courtney... are just hot and Mardi Ballou did a nice job throughout the book never faltering from Courtney’s main goal but still bringing two lovers together. Readers will love this story, and yes will want more from Mardi Ballou.”
   -- Lena C, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

“...a story about growing up and moving on from what used to be. I enjoyed this book because it was different and unusual in a way that I have never read before.”
   -- Sheryl, eCataromance      Read the full review



TTL Cover                                Anniversary Waltz - reviews

“Ms. Ballou takes two very unique couples and combines them flawlessly together. Anniversary Waltz kept me guessing and had my emotions on a roller coaster ride. You will love this ending! Anniversary Waltz will make you smile and make you fall in a love again and again.

”
   -- Klarissa, Joyfully Reviewed       Read the full review






TTL Cover                                Heliotropic 3: To the Light - reviews

4 ANGELS: To The Light continues the unique series... Once again, this reader was impressed with the emotions some characters must deal with in this story... Val and Paul’s relationship only grows stronger... Mardi Ballou has managed to bring not only two characters, but two totally different characters, full circle entwining them into each other’s lives to the point they can’t imagine the other not there.”
   -- Shayley, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

4.5 STARS: Mardi Ballou continues her Heliotropic series with the story of a planet filled with handsome men who use sex to worship the sun. -- Sizzling...”
   -- Candy, eCataRomance       Read the full review

“...the eroticism...is off the charts and is sure to titillate the reader.”
   -- Isabelle Spencer, RRT Erotic       Read the full review


PSM Cover                                Petits S’Mores - reviews

4 STARS: This story has everything: danger, romance, unrequited love... a killer book that any lover of the vampire genre needs to get.”
   -- Sheryl, EcataRomance      Read the full review

4 STARS: [The] plot was on point and brought all of the pieces of this short story together... an excellent job..”
   -- LT Blue, Just Erotic Romance Reviews Newsletter #85

5 HEARTS: the sexual encounters...are exceedingly arousing. I kept stopping to reread! This book flows seamlessly, and I simply LOVED it! Petits S'Mores is another winner from Mardi Ballou!”
   -- Marcy Arbitman, The Romance Studio    Read the full review

3.5 LIPS: ...a short tale that both entertains and arouses... this story leaps out and grabs you and doesn't let go until the very last page. I highly recommend this hot, hot book to readers who love mysteries, vampires and scorching sex! Fabulous job, Ms. Ballou!”
   -- Two Lips Reviews      Read the full review

4 ANGELS: ....packed full of plot and humor, the characters are well fleshed and the writing style draws you into the drama.”
   -- Hayley, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review



ITD Cover                                Heliotropic 2: In the Dark - reviews

4.5 STARS: Mardi Ballou takes the readers along for the ride as Paul discovers what it is like now that he is a Vampire... The sex scenes are vividly erotic. I hope there is a third book to this series.”
   -- Candy, eCataRomance     Read the full review

4 STARS: ...a wonderful story... a perfect sequel to...From the Light... a good mix of action, a little bit of mystery, interesting sex scenes and some humor... The characters...express a wide variety of emotions for each other: love, hate, jealousy and anger... The story has a wonderful flow... grabbed my interest with the dark intensity... The ending was a wonderful surprise and bonus.”
   -- Tamar Reid, Just Erotic Romance Reviews Newsletter #83

4 ANGELS: The introduction of Trey...brings in an additional wonderful character. The unique moment of the spider was one this reader was not prepared for, yet Mardi Ballou did a great job at...creating quite an erotic image. ”
   -- Shayley, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review


FTL Cover                                Heliotropic 1: From the Light - reviews

5 HEARTS: Val and Paul are so immediately right for each other that their love and attraction just shines from the pages... This story is highly recommended and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Heliotropic Series.”
   -- Annie, The Romance Studio      Read the full review

4.5 CUPIDS: This is a great story about two people from different races, planets and with totally different needs, who manage to get together because of love... The sex scenes are great -- scorching and very emotional... lots of tension, emotion and a book that shows that love can conquer all.”
   -- Susanne, Cupid’s Library Reviews      Read the full review

4 STARS: The love between Val and Paul is only the beginning of their story. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.”
   -- Candy, eCataRomance      Read the full review

4 ANGELS: an imaginative plot pitting two very different characters against a formable opponent that is evil through and through... unique and new to the many paranormal plots out there... Mardi Ballou has started a series that is sure to see some intense passion and fights for survival.”
   -- Jessica, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review

3.5 STARS: definitely has an interesting concept... I give Mardi Ballou thumbs up for her creativity... erotic and entertaining...”
   -- Suni Farrar, Just Erotic Romance Reviews Newsletter #78


YVIF Cover                                Young Vampires in France - reviews

4 CUPS: ...a very good vampire romance, full of conflict and past tragedy. The author paints a wonderful picture of France and the love scenes are very, very hot! I will definitely read the previous novel.”
   -- Maura, Coffee Time Romance      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: Monique and the Comte were fascinating, well-written characters... I loved reading and enjoying their sex along with them... I enjoyed reading the book a great deal”
   -- Marcy Arbitman, The Romance Studio      Read the full review





HHS Cover                                Heather and the Harem Scroll - reviews

5 ANGELS: Mardi Ballou manages to show Heather’s shifting thoughts and feelings in a way that ensnares the reader, pulling one into a world full of desire and intrigue, and which will leave one searching for more. Enjoy!”
   -- Trang, Fallen Angel Reviews           Read the full review

“The passion of the story and the luscious settings will set your bed on fire, so have a LARGE fire extinguisher handy…size does matter... a hot, lush and steamy romance that defies even time itself, grab this book and settle in for some very heavy breathing!  WHEW!!”
   -- Cassidy, Joyfully Reviewed      Read the full review

3.5 STARS: a [...] unique approach to the time travel story, including several fascinating behind-the-scenes depictions of a harem girl and the underlying court intrigue of this fascinating time... unique, enlightening, and showcased an unusual amount of tension and political intrigue within this mysterious place. ...the highly erotic training that Heather experiences set my teeth to grinding with sexual tension.”
   -- Francesca Hayne, Just Erotic Romance Reviews, Newsletter #76

4.5 STARS: Mardi Ballou weaves a story of Harem intrigue.”
   -- Candy, eCataRomance      Read the full review


TTTC Cover                                Third Time’s the Charm - reviews

4 STARS: [The] characters are so well developed that I could feel their intense physical longing for each other... I could feel and almost share their desperation. The story is fast paced with a lot of longing written into very few pages, but it captured my attention from the beginning and kept me enthralled to the very end.”
   -- Karen H., Just Erotic Romance Reviews, Newsletter #74     

4.5 CROWNS: This story is loaded with sexual tension that isn’t relieved until so close to the end that you’ll be screaming in frustration. Brianna and Misha’s powerful attraction will have you believe that you too can walk through a movie screen into another time period and find true love. Mardi Ballou’s story sizzles...”
   -- Scarlet, Realms of Love      Read the full review

“I was fully engrossed... and devoured [it] in a single sitting... great descriptions... The sex is hot and fits beautifully into this very well told time-travel story.”
   -- Maura, Joyfully Reviewed      Read the full review

3.5 BLUE RIBBONS: Mardi Ballou has the ability to take the mundane details of everyday life and turn them into possibilities that exist in worlds where imagination is the limit. She creates passion and romance with the written word, and makes us believe that even going to the movies can be an adventure of love and lust.”
   -- JT, Romance Junkies Reviews      Read the full review

3.5 HEARTS: Ms. Ballou’s wondrous imagination transforms this tale into a dreamy read. One filled with a novel premise and clearly defined writing... a romantic and timeless tale between two clandestine lovers... an exciting journey.”
   -- Janalee, Love Romances      Read the full review



LFH Cover                                Réunions Dangereuses - reviews

4 CUPS: ...a new take on reunion and second chance at love... The sex scenes...left me searching for a glass of ice water. Ms. Ballou is a talented author with a knack for creating characters that touch the reader’s heart. If you love vampires and enjoy stories of ménage á trois...then read this book!”
   -- Susan, Coffee Time Romance      Read the full review

4.5 STARS: Mardi Ballou has once again written a story that will grab your attention and keep it... will definitely get your juices flowing!”
   -- Trang, eCataRomance      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: The characters beckoned to me, tantalizing me to read on and become part of the story... Ballou is a hot writer and this story just showcases her talent for carnal embellishments... an author who should be on every paranormal erotic lover’s auto-buy list!... a great read with ménage a trois, m/m action, and even more hot sex wrapped up in an action-packed paranormal tale.”
   -- Janalee Ruschhaupt, The Romance Studio      Read the full review

“This quick delightful tale deals with everything from gay lovers to a vampire ménage... This fun and fast read is a unique view into the lives of contemporary vampires.”
   -- Ophelia, Erotic Escapades      Read the full review

5 ANGELS: ...takes us through one of the hardest questions a person can ask themselves: is the past really behind you?... a great job of presenting unconventional relationships in an almost conventional way.”
   -- Serena, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review

4 STARS: ...a steamy ménage à trois that makes fabulous reading... The chemistry between the characters is electric... Any paranormal fan who likes spice in their tales and who doesn’t mind two handsome guys getting it on should love this red hot quickie!”
   -- Elizabeth, Euro Reviews      Read the full review

“...a fantastic read that will have readers over heating.”
   -- Claudia, The Road to Romance      Read the full review

4 STARS: ...an interesting twist on the old formula... a light, at times almost tongue in cheek quality that made it enjoyable throughout the story... Ms. Ballou has created a fun fantasy reunion anyone can enjoy.”
   -- Kirra Pierce, Just Erotic Romance Reviews, Newsletter #68     

4.5 BLUE RIBBONS: ...a wonderfully enjoyable story which I highly recommend.”
   -- Chrissy Dionne, Romance Junkies      Read the full review

“ ...doesn’t hold anything back. It is fast moving, sensual, and oh, so naughty... an all out, highly entertaining read.”
   -- Talia Ricci, Joyfully Reviewed      Read the full review



LFH Cover                                Love for Hire / Down and Dirty - reviews

5 UNICORNS: This has got to be one of the best anthologies I have ever read. I loved all three, which is highly unusual. Each story is unique and dripping with hot sex and powerful emotions. If you want to try out an anthology, this is the one! Whatever mood you are in, any of the three stories will leave you contented.”
   -- Anita, Enchanted in Romance      Read the full review

4 ANGELS: ...each author created two very strong individuals that were willing to fight for what they wanted. The character and plot development in each story is superb and you will hate to see the story end. I look forward to reading more from these authors.”
   -- Tewanda, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: : ...a sparkling anthology of wit, love, thrills, and sensuality.
   Love for Hire is a quirky story featuring two characters that..make a delightful duo... a hot sexual tension that adds another layer to their story... another exceptional story in this anthology.”
   -- Sarah W, The Romance Studio      Read the full review

4 STARS: Each story in Down and Dirty is steamy and hot to trot. The book is a great read... The book doesn’t disappoint! I recommend that readers pick it up today!”
   -- Chantay, Euro Reviews      Read the full review

4 CUPS: ...three very erotic stories that will keep you reading until all hours of the night. The suspense builds in each of the stories so the book is impossible to put down... The sex is hot and you may need ice water to cool off...”
   -- Sherry, Coffee Time Romance      Read the full review

4 STARS: This story has a lot of twists and turns, none of them predictable. I liked the playfulness, openness and exploration between Stephanie and Nick... That really intrigued my imagination... I recommend it to anyone looking for a fun read.”
   -- Ellen Bunch, Just Erotic Romance Reviews      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: Love for Hire is a typical Mardi Ballou book: you enjoy the story from the beginning to the end... a great story.
   ...an anthology that the reader will not be able to put down.”
   -- Danny, Love Romances      Read the full review

4 STARS: This is another great story by Ms. Ballou, one that will draw you in, have you falling for the characters and rooting for their happy ending.”
   -- Trang, eCataRomance      Read the full review




FNF Cover                                Pantasia 3: Forever on the Isle of Never  - reviews

4 STARS: ...full of sass, class and sizzle... a great novel which is impossible to resist. Ms. Ballou has got a terrific gift for creating characters which seem so real they bounce of the page! It’s refreshing to finally read a story which features older characters that have such a good time! ...a fantastic heroine, a sexy hero, wicked humour, electrifying sexual tension and plenty of hot sizzling sex scenes to melt your hard drive! ...wickedly good read!”
 -- Julie Bonello, eCataRomance      Read the full review

4 1/2 BLUE RIBBONS: [Mardi Ballou’s] taken the subject of a middle age woman who is slightly overweight and built a poignant story around her wants and needs... If... you like reading about hot and heavy lovemaking, you’re in for a treat with this one.”
     -- Nickie Langdon, Romance Junkies      Read the full review

5 HEARTS: I really enjoyed the characters of Nan and Mike... They’re like a lot of people I know in their 50’s and older... Also outstanding were...Pete Payne, Lily Tiger, Dominic Laredo and Gwyn Verde [who] stood out in their characterizations as though they walked into the room. This is a fun story. I recommend it to everyone.”
     -- Ellen, The Romance Studio      Read the full review

“... red-hot sex scenes... the love scenes get dirty (literally)... What else can readers expect between a construction worker and someone who works with clay? Readers ... should not miss this sensual tale.”
     -- Holly Tibbs, Romance Reviews Today      Read the full review

4 STARS: Once again Ms. Ballou delivers a fabulous, fun story with great characters.”
     -- Trang Black, Just Erotic Romance Reviews          Read the full review

4 1/2 UNICORNS: Two individuals bruised by life come together...  I really felt a connection with the two main characters... [who became] dear to my heart.”
   -- Rachelle, Enchanted in Romance      Read the full review

4 CUPS: Nan and Mike are very realistic characters, and it’s refreshing to see a story featuring a heroine who is not in her twenties or thirties. Like people you know in real life, both Nan and Mike do things that will aggravate you as the reader, but they are so likable, they are easy to root for. ...a charming enjoyable story that will make you smile.”
     -- Cindy Warner, Coffee Time Romance     Read the full review

“... a very honest look at an older woman/younger man relationship. The author does not shy away from the doubts that might plague this type of relationship. Nan and Mike have a deep emotional and sexual bond that make them strive to have a relationship no matter what hardships they have to overcome.”
     -- Tewanda, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review

FNF Cover                                Fangs ’n’ Foxes / Nibbles ’n’ Bits - reviews

5 ANGELS - RECOMMENDED READ: ...three stories that will have readers falling out of their chair laughing... [The authors]... will have people talking about the scenes in these books for a long time to come.”
     -- Donna, Fallen Angel Reviews      Read the full review

5 FLAMES - REVIEWER CHOICE: ...a terrific collection of stories about three very different vampires... The passion and humor...will have you laughing out loud... This book is definitely a keeper.
   The passion and emotional bond that [Mardi Ballou] creates between the main characters is amazing.”
     -- Tewanda, Sizzling Romances      Read the full review

5 CUPS: The characters [in Fangs ’n’ Foxes] are the most unique vampires I have ever read about... Ms. Ballou exhibits such imaginative writing skills that the story almost pops right off the pages.
     Nibbles ’n’ Bits is a wonderful anthology that features vampire themed stories by three extremely talented authors who utilize some very creative twists and turns that make this book a must read for fans of the vampire genre. I greatly enjoyed all three stories and will read them repeatedly. ...most definitely a keeper!”
     -- Susan White, Coffee Time Romance      Read the full review

4 1/2 UNICORNS: ...Ellora’s Cave’s best anthology. Not only have they picked great authors to make a hot and sexy paranormal erotic anthology, it will leave you wanting more.
   ...[a] favorite of this reviewer was Darnell’s story... somewhat like an erotic twist to the West Side story. Two leaders at war to rule both lands and two tooth fairies that just want peace. Who knew a tooth fairy and a vampire can be erotic?”
     -- Melinda, Enchanted in Romance      Read the full review

“Written in the in the style of old Mafia bosses, Fangs and Foxes is an absolutely original, funny and sizzling read. Ms. Ballou's somewhat comical take on vampires made me laugh out loud. With plenty of sexy, scorching scenes to spice it up, Fangs and Foxes is a story I’m definitely going to read over and over.”
     -- ObsidianKiss, Vampire Book Club      Read the full review

4 STARS: Sex...is very steamy especially in the dentist’s chair. LaLilia uses her ‘appendages’ to the fullest for the ultimate mutual satisfaction. If you want to read a story with some unique and refreshing characters this one is for you.”
     -- Ann Lee, Just Erotic Romance Reviews      Read the full review

5 ROSES: Nibbles 'n' Bits is a tantalizing pleasure that is sure to cause quite a few heart palpitations. Put the kids to bed, grab a nice bottle of wine, and give yourself a big bite of something wonder -- this yummy collection from Judy Mays, Mardi Ballou and Delilah Devlin.”
     -- Natasha, A Romance Review      Read the full review

4 STARS: ...a wonderful collection of three steamy and amusing tales of vampire love...
   ...a really interesting story. I loved the take on tooth fairies as vampires. Ms. Ballou does a great job of putting the feel of New Jersey into Fangs ’n’ Foxes right down to the dialog... This is a story that you’ll definitely have a sweet tooth for.”
     -- Susan Biliter, eCataRomance      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: This is a trio of hilarious, extremely sexy tales of whacky lovers. There is a definite tongue in cheek feel to the stories. Each one has its own flavor and they all are delectable.”
     -- Thia McClain, The Romance Readers Connection      Read the full review

“Vampires can have love lives just as screwed up as anybody else’s, and here’s the proof. Nibbles ’n’ Bits is a trio of funny, romantic horror tales of the undead.
   [Fangs ’n’ Foxes is a] kind of a dirty West Side Story vibe, if Tony and Maria were supernatural characters and the gangs kept biting each other.”
     -- Hoot Island      Read the full review

4 HEARTS: I highly recommend this book and can promise readers will not be disappointed.“
     -- Angel Brewer, The Romance Studio      Read the full review

RATING: 9: This anthology is simply fabulous. All three of these stand-alone stories contain steamy sex scenes and liberal dashes of humor... If you enjoy erotic paranormal romance... Nibbles 'n' Bits is definitely a book for you -- and your keeper shelf... Anyone who likes steamy love scenes, interlaced with humor and an excellent writing style will love this anthology.”
     -- Elizabeth, Novelspot     Read the full review

“...a witty, humorous romantic anthology... Three talented ladies embrace the night and write enticing tales of torrid sex and love.”
     -- Sinclair Reid, Romance Reviews Today      Read the full review


YVIL Cover                        Young Vampires in LovePRISM award Finalist in RWA’s PRISM contest! - reviews

5 ANGELS: Mardi Ballou is an exceptional author who has taken vampires to a whole new level. They show a level of humanity not normally seen in stories about vampires. Vampires can love, and be hurt by love, just as humans can. I found this story very intriguing and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.”
     -- Dawn, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

4 1/2 STARS, Heat level: O(rgasmic): Young Vampires in Love is an utterly delightful vampire paranormal erotic... very original... The adventures of Lynette and Darlene, who have lived in seclusion for over 30 years, provide for quite an amusing ride... The erotic scenes in this book are PIPING hot. There are a couple of scenes in a club that literally had me squirming on my seat. ...this book certainly is one to try.”
     -- Mireya Orsini, Just Erotic Romance Reviews       Read the full review

4 STARS: funny and entertaining... This interesting novel excellently combines well described characters and humor with really hot sex, romance and BDSM... a refreshing and unusual insight into the love lives of vampires, this story is definitely a must-read!”
     -- Ulrike, Mon Boudoir       Read the full review

“...filled with lots of searing, scorching sex, just about any kind you can dream up. Certainly, Mardi Ballou does not lack in the imagination department! Better have a cold drink nearby when you read this one. Young Vampires in Love is guaranteed to make anyone’s blood boil!”
 -- Katherine J. Turcotte, The Road to Romance       Read the full review

4.5 CUPIDS: ...pure engagingly erotic fun. Full of amusing situations and sensual delights, this clever story will tickle your funny bone and raise your temperature at the same time... very entertaining and very HOT... a clever, quirky and sexy story... Make sure you pick this one up!”
     -- Ulrike, Cupid’s Library Reviews       Read the full review

4 STARS: excellently combines well described characters and humor with really hot sex, romance and BDSM. ...a refreshing and unusual insight into the love live of vampires... a must-read!”
     -- Susan Biliter, eCataRomance Reviews       Read the full review

4 CUPS: Mardi Ballou has a great sense of the absurd. Her sense of humor is really what makes her stuff so fun to read. ...incredibly hot contemporary sex scenes. The juxtaposition is done with intelligence and a tongue planted firmly in cheek. ...something for every sexual taste... and it is all done well. Lovers of paranormal romantica, as well as those who like a few hearty laughs with their spicy sex scenes, will enjoy Young Vampires in Love as much as I did!”
     -- Kim, Coffee Time Romance       Read the full review

“...a spicy paranormal with some comedy thrown in... The main characters were great, the scenes erotic... Nevertheless, the one person who stood out in the book for me was their Sire, Laurence de Cormignac, the Compte du Montnoir.  I hope that Mardi Ballou does a book on him also.  His presence in the book is exciting -- a bad boy with an accent that deserves his own story.”
     -- Kaleen, Enchanted in Romance       Read the full review



Pantasia 2: For Pete’s Sake - reviewsFPS cover

5 STARS, Heat level: O(rgasmic): Ms. Ballou draws this story with perfect finesse... great characters... Pete is written as an unlikely male character... Lily is a modern independent woman written with great detail... get out all the toys... This is a highly entertaining book with a great sense of humor and a few twists thrown in to make it more than a typical erotic romance.”
     --Julie Esparza, Just Erotic Romance Reviews       Read the full review

4 1/2 STARS: Once again, Ms. Ballou has written a story with enchanting characters who are well developed and are sure to entertain. The distinctive story line will grasp the reader’s imagination and give one several hours of gratifying pleasure... characters that will pull at your heart. They are intelligent, strong, and very realistic in nature... the sparks fly from combustible heat. With the abundant, keen humor making this reader laugh out loud, this story will definitely keep you amused, and I was sorry to see it end.”
     --Amelia Richard, eCataRomance Reviews       Read the full review

4 HEARTS: This book had me laughing out loud at the twists and turns... a wonderful and delightful tale... Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, this book is a fun sequel.”
     --Angel Brewer, The Romance Studio       Read the full review

4 BLUE RIBBONS: For Pete’s Sake is [a] charming tale... Mardi Ballou’s sequel to Hook, Wine, & Tinker is a great success and shows how one of the lost boys becomes a man.”
     --Sarah W., Romance Junkies       Read the full review

For Pete’s Sake is a story of revenge, ambition, and the sensual adventures of a couple who do not appear likable at first glance... an erotic story with a humor-filled plot... Mardi Ballou knows how to raise the heat in her writing, and has penned a tale that is sure to please. Crank up the air conditioning... -- you will need it”
     --Patti Fischer, Romance Reviews Today       Read the full review

4 UNICORNS: Filled with passionately sexy scenes and entertaining dialogue, For Pete’s Sake can be enjoyed as a standalone novel for those who haven’t enjoyed its predecessor... A perfect read for a hot summer night...or anytime at all.”
     -- Leigh, Enchanted in Romance       Read the full review


Cover Pantasia 2: Hook, Wine & Tinker - reviews

“...delightful novel by first time EC author Mardi Ballou... Hook, Wine & Tinker is a sexy, fast-paced romp that features an upbeat heroine and two would-be beaus... The well-drawn and consistent characters keep the story humming along, pushing ahead the bubbling undercurrent of sexuality... The use of fantasy, costumes and mild bondage both entertains and excites. ...a well-written, fun yet deliciously sexy story that is sure to entertain.”
       --Ann Leveille, Sensual Romance Reviews       Read the full review

4 STARS:...The original Tinkerbell never had it so good. Dominic is a nerd-turned-hunk, who just oozes sex appeal. The characters are believable... Steamy, sweaty sex abounds, with both Dominic and Gwyn acting out some of their fantasies, with handcuffs, costumes, scarves and pearls all playing their part. After reading this, I will always think of Captain Hook as a hero, and Never Neverland will not be the same.”
       --Michelle Naumann, Just Erotic Romance Reviews       Read the full review

5 HEARTS:...Gwen is the perfect vehicle for this story... The readers will find themselves... swept off their feet right along with her as she meets Dominic and spends the night in the true spirit of Halloween celebration -- exploring being someone you normally aren’t... Ms Ballou sweeps the reader along with her explorations so skillfully and intensely that they may feel as if they, too, spent the night with Dominic... This isn’t a classic fairy tale... It’s better!... one of the best romances of the season!”
       --Kitty, Love Romances       Read the full review

“...Hook, Wine & Tinker demonstrates the importance of taking a chance on love. Dominic and Gwyn are soulmates with their love of adventure and eagerness to play games. Join them for a night so hot it should come with a warning! A fast, fun story to savor again and again. Ms. Ballou will have her work cut out for her to turn self-absorbed Pete into a convincing hero in the sequel coming out later this year.”
       --Denise Powers, Sensual Romance Reviews       Read the full review

5 Blue Ribbons5 BLUE RIBBONS:... Mardi Ballou writes a passionate and sensual tale... The amazing chemistry between the characters, combined with the intriguing storyline, made for a very hot and arousing read. I found Hook, Wine & Tinker to be an exciting and erotic tale that is sure to entertain the reader until the very end.”
       --Jennifer A., Romance Junkies        Read the full review

4 1/2 STARS: ... a modern, adult fairy tale that is spicy and erotic in nature... The pages of this enchanting story sizzle throughout the book, and the heat level is set on burning... I was kept on the edge of my seat wondering what game this creative couple would play next. On an emotional level, I was cheering for this caring couple to realize they were destined to be together. If you like your characters intelligent, thoughtful and possessing quick-witted humor, then be sure to read Hook, Wine & Tinker very soon. Ms. Ballou’s next book is Pete’s story and I can not wait!”
     --Amelia Richard, eCataRomance Reviews       Read the full review

“Ballou’s novel is an erotic and enjoyable read. It features a sexy yet sensitive hero and a sympathetic heroine who faces a difficult choice. She must decide overnight in which man to put her heart and her trust: the Lost Boy or the Pirate.”
     --Marilyn Weigel, Romantic Times, July, 2004       

4 ANGELS: It was wonderfully written, erotically woven, and easy to get lost in... Ms. Ballou’s efforts create a fascinating short story, with rich and indulgent characters that make even the most lurid sexual fantasies seem plausible and possible, not to mention utterly enjoyable. Even better than a ‘beach’ book, this is a story suited for a hot soak in a bubbly tub with a nice drink, though this reading might just steam up more than the bathroom.”
     --Becky, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

“...The bedroom romps between Gwyn and Dominic are very hot, sweet, and fun. Fun with costumes, toys, even a bathtub livens up their time together keeping the reading intense. I truly enjoyed the games that Ms. Ballou created for Gwyn and Dominic.”
       --MeriBeth McCombs, The Road to Romance       Read the full review


Photo Finish cover Photo Finish - reviews

5 STARS:  Photo Finish is a wonderful short contemporary story that will grab you from the first page. Alex and Cassandra are both exciting characters and when they make love it is sizzling HOT! This story truly raised my temperature a couple of degrees as I was reading. Treat yourself! Run out and buy this fabulous book. I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.”
    --Susan Holly, Just Erotic Romance Reviews       Read the full review

5 ANGELS: At times both humorous and serious, I found Photo Finish to be a wonderful introduction to the writing of Mardi Ballou… Looking for an enjoyable, entertaining and quick read? Don’t go past Photo Finish. I guarantee you won’t regret it.”
     --Jane, Fallen Angel Reviews       Read the full review

“...[Photo Finish] is a splendidly developed story... Cassie and Alex have a spark that is tangible right from the start. Their fire is evident in their dialogue as well as in the bedroom. It is well written and injected with just the right amount of emotion. There is also a secondary storyline that is included. It deals with the all too serious issue of sexual harassment and how it should be handled. Ms. Ballou includes everything in this quick, sexy read.”
       --Ansley Velarde, The Road to Romance       Read the full review

4 FLAMES: Mardi Ballou packs a lot of feeling, steamy scenes, and character background into such a short format... more than just a quick dose of sensual romance, but is also an excellent piece of writing. I found myself interested in the characters and their histories...”
     --Crystal, Sizzling Romances      Read the full review

“A short but sizzling story, Photo Finish packs quite a punch in just a few pages... There are depths to these two people that the author explores very well... The sex scenes are red-hot, erotic, and romantic. It’s amazing what you can do with a bit of imagination and a pair of handcuffs... Mardi Ballou writes a quickie that’s extremely satisfying. Photo Finish will have readers salivating, sweating, and ready for a little playtime.”
       --Sinclair Reid, Romance Reviews Today       Read the full review

4 BLUE RIBBONS: Photo Finish will have you turning pages right up to the end and then wishing there was more! Mardi Ballou is a wonderful storyteller. The characters are well described; you feel as if you really know them. If you haven’t read an erotica yet but like to, this one will be a great read and I highly recommend it. If you’ve read erotica, Photo Finish is a perfect addition to your collection.”
     --Kimberly Leslie, Romance Junkies       Read the full review

“...full of well-written  dialogue and scenes. The author not only added steamy sex to the book, but also made the main characters have romance, which only adds to the heat of the passion. A good  read for anyone looking for a small slice of passion in a bite-sized piece.”
     --Robyn S., Love Romances       Read the full review

“... very enjoyable book. ...extremely likeable characters. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a quick romance with plenty of steamy sex.”
     --Laurie Damron, Sensual Romance Reviews       Read the full review

4 HEARTS: The chemistry between Alex and Cassandra is explosive, but also kind of sweet. Mardi Ballou has done a remarkable job in creating a short story that left me feeling completely satisfied.”
     --Dina Smith, The Romance Studio       Read the full review


Home - Reviews - Contests/Goodies/Newsletter - Links - About/contact 
© 2004-8 Mardi Ballou