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Heart of Fire
A fabulous lost Amazon city once inhabited by women warriors and containing a rare red diamond: it sounded like myth, but archeologist Jillian Sherwood believed it was real, and she was willing to put up with anything to find it -- even Ben Lewis. Ruffian, knock-about, and number one river guide in Brazil, Ben was all man -- over six feet of rock-hard muscles that rippled under his khakis, with lazy blue eyes that taunted her from his tanned face. Jillian watched him come to a fast boil when she refused to reveal their exact destination upriver in the uncharted rain forests -- and resolved to stand her ground. Neither of them could foresee what the days ahead promised: an odyssey into the fiery heart of passion and betrayal, and a danger that would force them to cast their fates together, immersed in the eternal, unsolved mysteries of love....
309 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 1993
342 people are currently reading
3,260 people want to read
About the author
Linda Howard
271 books7,065 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Linda S. Howington is an American best-selling romance author writing under the pseudonym Linda Howard. After 21 years of penning stories for her own enjoyment, she submitted a novel for publication which was very successful. Her first work was published by Silhouette in 1982. She is a charter member of Romance Writers of America and in 2005 Howard was awarded their Career Achievement Award.
Linda Howard lives in Gadsden, Alabama with her husband, Gary F. Howington, and two golden retrievers. She has three grown stepchildren and three grandchildren.
Linda S. Howington is an American best-selling romance author writing under the pseudonym Linda Howard. After 21 years of penning stories for her own enjoyment, she submitted a novel for publication which was very successful. Her first work was published by Silhouette in 1982. She is a charter member of Romance Writers of America and in 2005 Howard was awarded their Career Achievement Award.
Linda Howard lives in Gadsden, Alabama with her husband, Gary F. Howington, and two golden retrievers. She has three grown stepchildren and three grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 386 reviews
January 23, 2014
I've yet to write a review, but I found this pic today and couldn't help thinking of this book yummy Ben...
... and this particular scene:
He had stripped down to the skin with an utter lack of modesty that told her he was accustomed to being naked with a woman. Why would any woman in her right mind want him to wear clothes anyway? He was tall and lean and superbly muscled, and his buttocks were so round and taut that her hands instinctively curled into fists in an effort to resist patting them. He had the shoulders of a stevedore and the legs of an athlete, long and powerful. She had never enjoyed looking at a man more.
He stepped under the waterfall and let the water splash over him while he tilted his head back and shook his hair. Sunlight dappled on the flexing muscles of that marvelously strong body, and the water droplets spraying through the air glittered like diamonds. His genitals hung heavily between his thighs, and he was so perfectly, utterly male that her chest constricted, making it difficult for her to breathe.
Then he looked straight at her, the blue of his eyes so intense that she could see it even across the forty feet that separated them. He stepped forward a little, so that the main force of the water was hitting his back; he was right on the edge of the rock shelf above the pool of water. He was totally exposed to her, without the stream of water to blur the powerful lines of his body. As he stared at her, his shaft began to stir, to grow thick and long, to rise fiercely toward his belly.
Damn him, she thought feverishly.
Damn him, indeed! ;)
(To be true to the story, the guy in the pic would have to naked, but I'm too shy to post something that wicked... Yeah, right! *grins*)
... and this particular scene:
He had stripped down to the skin with an utter lack of modesty that told her he was accustomed to being naked with a woman. Why would any woman in her right mind want him to wear clothes anyway? He was tall and lean and superbly muscled, and his buttocks were so round and taut that her hands instinctively curled into fists in an effort to resist patting them. He had the shoulders of a stevedore and the legs of an athlete, long and powerful. She had never enjoyed looking at a man more.
He stepped under the waterfall and let the water splash over him while he tilted his head back and shook his hair. Sunlight dappled on the flexing muscles of that marvelously strong body, and the water droplets spraying through the air glittered like diamonds. His genitals hung heavily between his thighs, and he was so perfectly, utterly male that her chest constricted, making it difficult for her to breathe.
Then he looked straight at her, the blue of his eyes so intense that she could see it even across the forty feet that separated them. He stepped forward a little, so that the main force of the water was hitting his back; he was right on the edge of the rock shelf above the pool of water. He was totally exposed to her, without the stream of water to blur the powerful lines of his body. As he stared at her, his shaft began to stir, to grow thick and long, to rise fiercely toward his belly.
Damn him, she thought feverishly.
Damn him, indeed! ;)
(To be true to the story, the guy in the pic would have to naked, but I'm too shy to post something that wicked... Yeah, right! *grins*)
July 11, 2016
Her breasts brushed against the hard wall of his upper abdomen and a hot tingle shot through her nipples. She stopped breathing, because even that small movement was too potent.
First off, I must say that I love Linda Howard. Don’t think I have read any of her books that did not get a 4 or 5 star for me. They might be oldies, but they are goodies.
”This is probably paradise,” she said.
A fabulous lost Amazon city once inhabited by women warriors and containing a rare red diamond: it sounded like myth, but archeologist Jillian Sherwood believed it was real, and she was willing to put up with anything to find it -- even Ben Lewis.
Ben is an ass, an egotistical male chauvinistic ass. Gotta love him. Jillian is not his usual type, she is slim, small-breasted, scholarly.
Ms Sherwood appeared not to have an active hormone in her body. Dead from the neck down, as the saying went. Pity.
But did Ben soon change his tune as they set out on their adventure to find the lost city.
Lush, heavy breasts had always been his favorite, and her were on the small side, firmly erect without the voluptuous sway that had always turned him on, so he was perplexed by this almost painful fascination with hers.
I love to see a man brought to his knees by a good woman. Ben and Jillian were a great couple. Of course I would have loved to have had an epilogue a few years further down the line.
There is one scene in the book where they visit a waterfall to clean up. Seriously hot.
I think Dina summed it up very nicely indeed in her review …
Dina’s Review
September 25, 2020
Awful heroine. Tedious plot. Sex-addict hero. Bleh. If only I could rate this negative stars. DNF @80%
September 27, 2014
Linda Howard never disappoints! This was an adventure filled, adrenaline-taught, sexy and sensual book. Ben Lewis was an extremely seductive and intelligent man. I loved how he masqueraded as a no good drunk to hide the sheer cunning and witty personality I grew to love. Seeing a man brought to his knees by a smart and unlikely woman is so gratifying! Jillian Sherwood wasn't Ben's type but he couldn't stop obsessing about her, an obsession that turned to love.
The funny banter and engaging plot makes this book unputdownable. The descriptions of the Amazon and all it entails was so detailed I felt I was actually there, and don't even get me started on the steam! What I love about this author is her ability to write incredibly sensual and raw sexy time. She doesn't waste pages and pages on it, but manages to compress sensuality, longing and inferno-level hotness into a few skillfully written paragraphs.
I loved the waterfall scene, it was heavy on sexual tension and did more than a sexy time scene. Another favorite scene memorable for its intensity was the one where Jillian and Ben decide to use natures storm as a prelude to one of the hottest sexy times scenes in the book. Weaving myth and legend into RS is incredibly engaging, really builds up the mystery factor. I loved the ending and Ben's surprise, as well as the epilogue. Can I believe this was written in 1993?? Wow, really rivals some recent RS, which goes to show you some authors just have the magic! Great story, loved it.
The funny banter and engaging plot makes this book unputdownable. The descriptions of the Amazon and all it entails was so detailed I felt I was actually there, and don't even get me started on the steam! What I love about this author is her ability to write incredibly sensual and raw sexy time. She doesn't waste pages and pages on it, but manages to compress sensuality, longing and inferno-level hotness into a few skillfully written paragraphs.
I loved the waterfall scene, it was heavy on sexual tension and did more than a sexy time scene. Another favorite scene memorable for its intensity was the one where Jillian and Ben decide to use natures storm as a prelude to one of the hottest sexy times scenes in the book. Weaving myth and legend into RS is incredibly engaging, really builds up the mystery factor. I loved the ending and Ben's surprise, as well as the epilogue. Can I believe this was written in 1993?? Wow, really rivals some recent RS, which goes to show you some authors just have the magic! Great story, loved it.
July 18, 2016
Linda Howard is such a wonderful author. I absolutely loved this one!!!
OMG Ben is simply delicious and sexy as all hell. And Jillian was his perfect match. Different in every way possible which led a to slow burn that was fucking HOT!
I highly recommend this to EVERYONE!
September 30, 2014
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jillian Sherwood is passionate and dedicated to her work. She grew up as a curious little girl, fascinated by her famous archaeologist dad’ stories about lost world and civilizations, epic legends of long gone Amazon women warriors… Her dad was himself so taken with those myths, he lost all integrity trying desperately to prove the Historian Community he was right. His obsession cost him any reliability and he left behind the reputation of being a "crackpot".
Jillian, now all grown up, followed her deceased father’s footsteps, and became a talented archaeologist. Unfortunately, she just missed a great opportunity to participate a tremendous expedition because of her last name. Sherwood is still associated to her Dad’s loon ideas, and it’s not the first time it has caused her prejudice, despite being brilliant at what she does.
Tired and enraged, she decides it’s time to prove her dad was not the deranged person the world thinks he was, and wants once and for all clear his name, her name.
Helped, or more accurately, tailgated by her leech of a brother, she prepares for her own expedition.
Arrived in Brazil and helped by a somehow shady investor, they recruit the services of Ben Lewis, a guide specialized in the Amazonian rainforest areas.
I don’t know where to begin to explain how and why I LOVED this story!
Heart of Fire doesn’t shine by it’s originality, but it just combines ALL I love in a book!
The suspense, a great and interesting plot, a witty heroine, a cocky—not to say asshole— hero, bad guys, mystery, gradual sexual tension and a great romance! Add to this a scorching hot level of steam, and you have the perfect recipe!
I literally felt like I was reading the woman version of Indiana Jones!
Jillian was just such a strong character, I had no choice but to fall in love with her, she was brave, smart, independent and funny. She definitely needed that to give Ben a run for his money!
Ben was the typical bossy and arrogant alpha male. Behind his broody and obnoxious attitude, he early on proved himself to be a good man, by protecting and taking care of Jillian.
I loved watching him trying to seduce Jillian first as a game, then as a tactical maneuver to keep the hand up, and finally involuntarily! The poor man couldn’t for the life of him understand why his body was attracted to this slim, small breasted woman—not the type he usually goes for.
Their relationship, whilst slow, was really entertaining! Jillian doing her best to resist Ben, she had one goal, and did a great job staying focused on it. Her constant refusal and Ben’s tireless flirt was the perfect combination for a great quality banter!
Still wary of Ben’s intentions, Jillian tries her best not to fall for her guide, but despite it all, his perseverance will pay and they’ll both gave in, finally shattering the well built sexual tension!
Heart of Fire is full of sexy moments, and Linda Howard delivered high level steamy sex scenes!
I won’t say much else about the story development, it’s yours to discover, and I can guarantee you are in for an epic adventure!
Wonder Woman, over.
Jillian Sherwood is passionate and dedicated to her work. She grew up as a curious little girl, fascinated by her famous archaeologist dad’ stories about lost world and civilizations, epic legends of long gone Amazon women warriors… Her dad was himself so taken with those myths, he lost all integrity trying desperately to prove the Historian Community he was right. His obsession cost him any reliability and he left behind the reputation of being a "crackpot".
Jillian, now all grown up, followed her deceased father’s footsteps, and became a talented archaeologist. Unfortunately, she just missed a great opportunity to participate a tremendous expedition because of her last name. Sherwood is still associated to her Dad’s loon ideas, and it’s not the first time it has caused her prejudice, despite being brilliant at what she does.
Tired and enraged, she decides it’s time to prove her dad was not the deranged person the world thinks he was, and wants once and for all clear his name, her name.
Helped, or more accurately, tailgated by her leech of a brother, she prepares for her own expedition.
Arrived in Brazil and helped by a somehow shady investor, they recruit the services of Ben Lewis, a guide specialized in the Amazonian rainforest areas.
“Ever done it in a hammock?”
I don’t know where to begin to explain how and why I LOVED this story!
Heart of Fire doesn’t shine by it’s originality, but it just combines ALL I love in a book!
The suspense, a great and interesting plot, a witty heroine, a cocky—not to say asshole— hero, bad guys, mystery, gradual sexual tension and a great romance! Add to this a scorching hot level of steam, and you have the perfect recipe!
I literally felt like I was reading the woman version of Indiana Jones!
Jillian was just such a strong character, I had no choice but to fall in love with her, she was brave, smart, independent and funny. She definitely needed that to give Ben a run for his money!
Ben was the typical bossy and arrogant alpha male. Behind his broody and obnoxious attitude, he early on proved himself to be a good man, by protecting and taking care of Jillian.
I loved watching him trying to seduce Jillian first as a game, then as a tactical maneuver to keep the hand up, and finally involuntarily! The poor man couldn’t for the life of him understand why his body was attracted to this slim, small breasted woman—not the type he usually goes for.
Their relationship, whilst slow, was really entertaining! Jillian doing her best to resist Ben, she had one goal, and did a great job staying focused on it. Her constant refusal and Ben’s tireless flirt was the perfect combination for a great quality banter!
“I’m glad you enjoyed it. Did you try it on?”
“Nah. Just rubbed it against my face.”
“Oh, nothing.”
“What? You'd better tell me.”
“He just wondered why we were making slap-slap in the rain, instead of in our funny little moloca—that's 'house' to them, 'tent' to you.”
“Slap-slap?” she asked faintly.
“Yeah, you know.” He lightly clapped his hands together, re-creating with devilish accuracy the sound of wet bodies moving together in hard rhythm. “Slap-slap.”
He looked smug. “I gather they were also impressed by both my… shall we say presence, and my technique.”
“Shut up,” she gasped, trying to gulp back the giggles. “Or I'll slap-slap your face-face.”
Still wary of Ben’s intentions, Jillian tries her best not to fall for her guide, but despite it all, his perseverance will pay and they’ll both gave in, finally shattering the well built sexual tension!
Heart of Fire is full of sexy moments, and Linda Howard delivered high level steamy sex scenes!
I won’t say much else about the story development, it’s yours to discover, and I can guarantee you are in for an epic adventure!
Wonder Woman, over.
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December 4, 2021
This is one of my favourite books, how have I not reviewed it before? I've just reread it for AT LEAST the third time, not counting all the times I dip in just to reread my favourite bits...
I consider this a hidden gem of Linda Howard's, and I actually like it a lot more than some of her more popular books. This is the novel where you really see her ability to capture atmosphere and location. It's set in Brazil - the middle of the Amazon rainforest, in fact - where archaeologist Jillian Sherwood has just shown up, trying to prove that her professor father wasn't a crackpot and that there really is treasure in the middle of the forest. Her estranged brother Rick is with her, alongside a mysterious figure named Kates who's been attracted by the prospect of treasure. The three of them will need a river guide, and 35-year-old Ben Lewis is the man for the job.
Ben is by far my favourite Howard hero, for one damn good reason: he's HILARIOUS. He's no stoic, brooding grump. He's a charming, crude, straightforward adventurer with a hidden core of ruthlessness and competence. My favourite type - and to boot, he's fairly amoral, with Jillian forming the core of his conscience. Also my favourite type. Meanwhile, she's calm, cool and collected. While this looks like an 'opposite attracts romance', and to some extent it is, Jillian is no shrinking violet to wilt under Ben's onslaught of raunchiness. She gives exactly as good as she gets. They're two of the most perfectly matched people in all of romantic literature - and consider that high praise, coming from me.
Honestly, I don't think there's a single thing I'd change about this book. Unlike Howard's usual romantic thriller/suspense types, this is more straightforward action, like a novelistic version of Lara Croft. It's over 100k words long but feels much shorter (in common with the rest of her books) simply because of how eminently readable it is. Even though I've read a lot of her backlist, no other book so far has measured up to this one.
I consider this a hidden gem of Linda Howard's, and I actually like it a lot more than some of her more popular books. This is the novel where you really see her ability to capture atmosphere and location. It's set in Brazil - the middle of the Amazon rainforest, in fact - where archaeologist Jillian Sherwood has just shown up, trying to prove that her professor father wasn't a crackpot and that there really is treasure in the middle of the forest. Her estranged brother Rick is with her, alongside a mysterious figure named Kates who's been attracted by the prospect of treasure. The three of them will need a river guide, and 35-year-old Ben Lewis is the man for the job.
Ben is by far my favourite Howard hero, for one damn good reason: he's HILARIOUS. He's no stoic, brooding grump. He's a charming, crude, straightforward adventurer with a hidden core of ruthlessness and competence. My favourite type - and to boot, he's fairly amoral, with Jillian forming the core of his conscience. Also my favourite type. Meanwhile, she's calm, cool and collected. While this looks like an 'opposite attracts romance', and to some extent it is, Jillian is no shrinking violet to wilt under Ben's onslaught of raunchiness. She gives exactly as good as she gets. They're two of the most perfectly matched people in all of romantic literature - and consider that high praise, coming from me.
Honestly, I don't think there's a single thing I'd change about this book. Unlike Howard's usual romantic thriller/suspense types, this is more straightforward action, like a novelistic version of Lara Croft. It's over 100k words long but feels much shorter (in common with the rest of her books) simply because of how eminently readable it is. Even though I've read a lot of her backlist, no other book so far has measured up to this one.
June 29, 2016
“You're mine, and you're going to admit it no matter how long I have to keep after you."
I love Linda Howard’s books. Her heroes are always pure alphas, very protective and possessive and the heroines feisty. And this book was no exception.
Jillian Sherwood is determined to prove that her father’s theory about a lost Amazon city that was inhabited by warrior women was true. She’ll even put up with her lazy half-brother who hates her, the financial backer he procured to help them on their expedition, who gives her a very cold feeling, and Ben Lewis, the over-confident and highly recommended river guide. Who goes out of his way to taunt her with his wicked words, looks and touch.
But everyone seems to have their own hidden agendas, and Jillian will have to decide whether she can trust Ben to get her out of the Amazon alive, and whether she can trust him with her body and her heart.
Jiliian was a great heroine. She’s smart and independent. And had no problem standing up to Ben and he’s seduction games. I loved how she made him work for her attentions, when he’s so used to women just falling at his feet.
Ben was the typical alpha hero, so sexy and cocky, but perhaps a bit too OTT alpha for me. I must say in the beginning I had a hard time liking him, and the way he viewed Jillian as just another conquest, but the longer they spend together, the more his attitude changed, and the more he fell under her spell. Which I really liked. The chemistry between these two was intense and hot. Although I must admit the sexy times did not read like the books I’m used to from this author. Ben really needed to learn the value and importance of foreplay.
I really enjoyed the setting and plot of the book, it was very adventurous and entertaining.
This was not among my favorite books by this author, but I still enjoyed it very much. If you love this author, then it’s a definite must read. If you haven’t read her books yet, I wouldn’t recommend starting with this one.
February 17, 2014
♥ ♥ ♥ HEART OF FIRE more like HEART ON FIRE ♥ ♥ ♥
Jillian is an archaeologist who followed in her father’s footsteps. He’s now deceased and his reputation has been tarnished. His former colleagues think of him as a crackpot. They never believed that he found a lost Amazon city. Jillian sets out to prove her dad was right.
Ben is a local Amazon river guide and is hired to take Jillian, her shifty half-brother and his ‘friend’ to this lost city.
Ms. Howard heats this book up with a mixture of a gutsy Jillian and a macho Ben. Their combination makes for a steamy adventure along the Amazon river.
Standalone
Jillian is an archaeologist who followed in her father’s footsteps. He’s now deceased and his reputation has been tarnished. His former colleagues think of him as a crackpot. They never believed that he found a lost Amazon city. Jillian sets out to prove her dad was right.
Ben is a local Amazon river guide and is hired to take Jillian, her shifty half-brother and his ‘friend’ to this lost city.
Ms. Howard heats this book up with a mixture of a gutsy Jillian and a macho Ben. Their combination makes for a steamy adventure along the Amazon river.
Standalone
October 14, 2010
4 stars – Romantic Suspense
This was a steamy, entertaining adventure romance with a smart, spunky archaeologist heroine and a hot alpha hero who guides her through the wilds of the Amazon in search of a mythical lost city. In the midst of battling bad guys and the perils of the jungle, they find themselves intensely attracted to each other. And when they finally succumb to their volatile desires? YOWZA! There’s a sex scene in the rain that’s so explosive and smokin’ hot that the H/h literally have steam coming off of them afterward. The hero has sexual stamina that would put the Energizer Bunny (and the Rabbit vibrator) to complete shame. So if you’re a fan of Linda Howard, romantic suspense with action adventure, and sexually charged alpha heroes, then you might enjoy this. 4 stars!
This was a steamy, entertaining adventure romance with a smart, spunky archaeologist heroine and a hot alpha hero who guides her through the wilds of the Amazon in search of a mythical lost city. In the midst of battling bad guys and the perils of the jungle, they find themselves intensely attracted to each other. And when they finally succumb to their volatile desires? YOWZA! There’s a sex scene in the rain that’s so explosive and smokin’ hot that the H/h literally have steam coming off of them afterward. The hero has sexual stamina that would put the Energizer Bunny (and the Rabbit vibrator) to complete shame. So if you’re a fan of Linda Howard, romantic suspense with action adventure, and sexually charged alpha heroes, then you might enjoy this. 4 stars!
August 10, 2016
I'm just so confused as to why people like this book. I really am. Maybe I'm missing some necessary gene that, I don't know, gives me bad taste in books?
So, for the storyline...predictable, boring, not good at all. Absolutely nothing, and I do mean nothing, happens until the very end of the book. The whole thing is just the main female character whining while pretending to be so tough and smart and hard-to-get and getting injured and getting massages from the main male character, who is a stereotypical invincible robot, meaning he is omnipotent and cannot get injured under any circumstances, since he is there merely to please and offer his body to the heroine on her command. The romance is frankly ridiculous. Why would these two love each other? They wouldn't. I didn't see it at all. They barely talked, and when they did, they said nothing nice. Ever.
After hours and hours of nothing at all happening, the only action we get is at the very end, during which a good 80 percent of the characters get systematically slaughtered. This is supposed to serve as pleasurable romantic entertainment? Then some nice hot sex after watching said slaughter (ahh, how romantic). I know I'd be in the "mood" after watching a near-massacre. Nothing gets me hot and bothered like a good bloody, brutal murder of a bunch of people, one of whom was my brother.
No, no, no. This is not romance. I wish I could un-read this drivel. Maybe there's something wrong with me, but if this is typical Linda Howard, I am officially her only non-fan.
So, for the storyline...predictable, boring, not good at all. Absolutely nothing, and I do mean nothing, happens until the very end of the book. The whole thing is just the main female character whining while pretending to be so tough and smart and hard-to-get and getting injured and getting massages from the main male character, who is a stereotypical invincible robot, meaning he is omnipotent and cannot get injured under any circumstances, since he is there merely to please and offer his body to the heroine on her command. The romance is frankly ridiculous. Why would these two love each other? They wouldn't. I didn't see it at all. They barely talked, and when they did, they said nothing nice. Ever.
After hours and hours of nothing at all happening, the only action we get is at the very end, during which a good 80 percent of the characters get systematically slaughtered. This is supposed to serve as pleasurable romantic entertainment? Then some nice hot sex after watching said slaughter (ahh, how romantic). I know I'd be in the "mood" after watching a near-massacre. Nothing gets me hot and bothered like a good bloody, brutal murder of a bunch of people, one of whom was my brother.
No, no, no. This is not romance. I wish I could un-read this drivel. Maybe there's something wrong with me, but if this is typical Linda Howard, I am officially her only non-fan.
January 6, 2025
The standout feature of Heart of Fire by Linda Howard is its incredibly atmospheric writing. Her talent truly shines here—you can almost feel the humidity, hear the wildlife, and see the vibrant greenery of the Amazon. It’s an immersive experience that pulls you right into the jungle.
The hero, Ben Lewis, is a classic Linda Howard creation—alpha, rakish, and unapologetically confident. On the other hand, Jillian Sherwood, the heroine, is a strong and intelligent woman who refuses to be overshadowed by him. Their dynamic is engaging, with plenty of witty banter and palpable chemistry that keeps the story entertaining.
If you’re in the mood for a thrilling adventure with a dash of romance, this book will hit the spot. It’s perfect for fans of The Lost City of Z or Indiana Jones—packed with danger, treasure hunts, and just the right amount of romantic tension.
That said, Ben’s alpha tendencies might not work for everyone, as he does come across as overbearing at times. But if you’re familiar with Linda Howard’s style and enjoy her take on strong, dominant heroes, you’ll likely enjoy this one.
Overall, Heart of Fire is a fun and adventurous read that blends romance and suspense in a way only Linda Howard can deliver.
The hero, Ben Lewis, is a classic Linda Howard creation—alpha, rakish, and unapologetically confident. On the other hand, Jillian Sherwood, the heroine, is a strong and intelligent woman who refuses to be overshadowed by him. Their dynamic is engaging, with plenty of witty banter and palpable chemistry that keeps the story entertaining.
If you’re in the mood for a thrilling adventure with a dash of romance, this book will hit the spot. It’s perfect for fans of The Lost City of Z or Indiana Jones—packed with danger, treasure hunts, and just the right amount of romantic tension.
That said, Ben’s alpha tendencies might not work for everyone, as he does come across as overbearing at times. But if you’re familiar with Linda Howard’s style and enjoy her take on strong, dominant heroes, you’ll likely enjoy this one.
Overall, Heart of Fire is a fun and adventurous read that blends romance and suspense in a way only Linda Howard can deliver.
April 20, 2012
The Amazon
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★★★★½ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Often, when I am exposed to a new narrator, I have to get used to their voice*. Such was the case with Tanya Eby Sirois. It is hard to explain...there is a cadence in her reading that makes me very aware she is telling a story. At times I went back to the paperback. Nevertheless, after several chapters, I adapted and eventually enjoyed her narration.
Well, this one still holds up 19 years later! Loved Jillian Sherwood and her efforts to prove her father was not a crack pot – i.e. that the legendary Amazons really existed. This one has high adventure, witty humor, a huge red diamond named The Empress, the dubious patronage of a drug lord along for the experience, and half-siblings with different agendas. Add sizzling chemistry between the aggressive ex-patriot hero cum river-rat, Ben Lewis, and archeologist Jillian and you have a winner. **sigh** Yes, Ben is a chauvinist, but he is able to laugh at himself when Jillian straightens him out.
*This narrator read Rainshadow Road as well, which I also listened to; however, I’m still getting used to her.
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★★★★½ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Often, when I am exposed to a new narrator, I have to get used to their voice*. Such was the case with Tanya Eby Sirois. It is hard to explain...there is a cadence in her reading that makes me very aware she is telling a story. At times I went back to the paperback. Nevertheless, after several chapters, I adapted and eventually enjoyed her narration.
Well, this one still holds up 19 years later! Loved Jillian Sherwood and her efforts to prove her father was not a crack pot – i.e. that the legendary Amazons really existed. This one has high adventure, witty humor, a huge red diamond named The Empress, the dubious patronage of a drug lord along for the experience, and half-siblings with different agendas. Add sizzling chemistry between the aggressive ex-patriot hero cum river-rat, Ben Lewis, and archeologist Jillian and you have a winner. **sigh** Yes, Ben is a chauvinist, but he is able to laugh at himself when Jillian straightens him out.
“You’re an unnatural woman. Don’t you know you’re supposed to want to do things for your man?”Yes, it is predicable in parts, but this road trip was fun. Just remember, no matter how beautiful the Amazon is, if you want to stay that way while visiting this exotic local, you are going to have to take a tip from Jillian Sherwood... Or you might just need them after some of the sizzling love scenes. LOL!
“I don’t remember ever claiming you as mine, so the issue doesn’t arise. But I can’t think of a reason why any woman would want a man who was too lazy to do his own laundry.”
His express became mournful. “No wonder you aren’t married.”
“And no wonder you aren’t.”
“I’ve never wanted to be.”
“Neither have I.”
*This narrator read Rainshadow Road as well, which I also listened to; however, I’m still getting used to her.
Read
July 10, 2014I have absolutely no idea how to rate this. This was incredibly enjoyable yet at the same time I did NOT like the love interest. Oh he was swoon-worthy and usually I don't have problems with Linda's heroes (even that one time I hated a book by her) but Ben did NOT work for me. He was kind of a douche and even though he redeemed himself in the end his character was so flat that he didn't even come off as 'hot' just annoying. Plus I didn't notice any significant change in him by the end of the novel except that he was in love.. somehow.. even though I never felt a smidgen of it.
I want to rate this book two stars but I honestly cannot. My major problem was Ben and the romance but at the same time giving it a three feels... like lying since I've enjoyed plenty of Linda's other books and rated them three.
Dilemma...
I'll still with not rating.
I want to rate this book two stars but I honestly cannot. My major problem was Ben and the romance but at the same time giving it a three feels... like lying since I've enjoyed plenty of Linda's other books and rated them three.
Dilemma...
I'll still with not rating.
May 17, 2010
I have to admit I was kinda wary of reading this book...not the book specifically, but a Linda Howard book. I've read books of hers that I've loved, but the last one I read (Burn) left a really sour taste in my mouth. And I found myself not quite wanting to read another LH book yet...even though I knew this was an older one of hers and a lot better different than her newer stuff. I made myself read it, though, since it had been in Mt TBR for a couple years. I rather enjoyed the book, though it wasn't perfect.
Summary:
Jillian Sherwood grew listening to her father's tales of ancient civilizations and various myths and half-truths. And she grew up wanting to be just like him. What Jillian didn't realize until she was older was that other archeologists considered her father a crackpot with his unsubstantiated theories. Even worse, they considered her a crackpot by extension. So Jillian sets out to prove her father's theory of the Anzar tribe in the Amazon rainforests was in fact true.
But her mission teams her up with some nefarious characters who have no intention of helping set up an archeological dig. They just want the loot...specially the rumored large red diamond. Jillian is also forced to work with rough neck river guide Ben Lewis, who sets her hormones raging. It's Ben, though, who realizes how dangerous and deadly this mission is likely to be. And he quickly comes to realize he'll do anything to protect Jillian.
Review:
Not only was I wary of this book because I'm a bit soured on Howard, but also, as those of you who regularly read my reviews know, I tend to dislike stories with a lot of trekking through the wilderness. Which is a large portion of this book. It did bore me a little at times, but not as bad as I thought. The ambiance of the Amazon, the action, and the spicy romance element kept it from too dull and repetitive.
This book is definitely a little more on the romance side than the suspense/adventure side, though they are close to even. Definitely more romantic than her newer books. And it's a bit of a surprisingly spicy romance. Not erotic by any means, but there's a definite spicy feel to the language, the actions, the intimacy. Some hot stuff with Jillian and Ben.
Those two had some great interactions throughout the book. Jillian's a spunky, brainy girl, and Ben's a laid-back pleasure seeker. They continually clash, but the reality is that they can only trust each other and it draws them closer. It was a great dynamic to read.
The plot also works well for the story, even if it's a rather predictable one. There aren't really any surprises. Everything went as I thought it would, but Howard wrote it well and kept me reading.
And the anthropologist in me loved the part of the story at the Stone City. I was totally fascinated by it. I could see it in my head, but wished I was really there to see it in person. The place sounded amazing. The anthropologist in my also ended up a bit disappointed, though, because the story of the Anzar tribe is left kind of incomplete due to the twists of the plot. I was a bit bummed I didn't get to learn more about the Anzar. Yeah, it's fictional, but it was still fascinating.
The one area I had a bit of a complaint about was the lack of character development, especially for Ben. Jillian's pretty solid...as a reader you know who she is, where she came from, what drives her, and all that. But Ben starts off and ends as pretty much a mystery. All you really learn abut him is that at twenty he hopped a freighter and ended up in Brazil where he stayed and was an adventure guide. Nothing else. There's times where Jillian asks about his past and the narrative says he got quite and a bleak look in his eyes, but you never learn any more. I wanted to know who Ben was...why'd he leave? What about his family? Did he ever want to go back to the US? When the book ended Ben was just a big blank in a lot of ways and I found that really frustrating.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the book. And it shows that Howard's older stuff is top-notch. I wish she'd return to the type of stories she used to write.
Summary:
Jillian Sherwood grew listening to her father's tales of ancient civilizations and various myths and half-truths. And she grew up wanting to be just like him. What Jillian didn't realize until she was older was that other archeologists considered her father a crackpot with his unsubstantiated theories. Even worse, they considered her a crackpot by extension. So Jillian sets out to prove her father's theory of the Anzar tribe in the Amazon rainforests was in fact true.
But her mission teams her up with some nefarious characters who have no intention of helping set up an archeological dig. They just want the loot...specially the rumored large red diamond. Jillian is also forced to work with rough neck river guide Ben Lewis, who sets her hormones raging. It's Ben, though, who realizes how dangerous and deadly this mission is likely to be. And he quickly comes to realize he'll do anything to protect Jillian.
Review:
Not only was I wary of this book because I'm a bit soured on Howard, but also, as those of you who regularly read my reviews know, I tend to dislike stories with a lot of trekking through the wilderness. Which is a large portion of this book. It did bore me a little at times, but not as bad as I thought. The ambiance of the Amazon, the action, and the spicy romance element kept it from too dull and repetitive.
This book is definitely a little more on the romance side than the suspense/adventure side, though they are close to even. Definitely more romantic than her newer books. And it's a bit of a surprisingly spicy romance. Not erotic by any means, but there's a definite spicy feel to the language, the actions, the intimacy. Some hot stuff with Jillian and Ben.
Those two had some great interactions throughout the book. Jillian's a spunky, brainy girl, and Ben's a laid-back pleasure seeker. They continually clash, but the reality is that they can only trust each other and it draws them closer. It was a great dynamic to read.
The plot also works well for the story, even if it's a rather predictable one. There aren't really any surprises. Everything went as I thought it would, but Howard wrote it well and kept me reading.
And the anthropologist in me loved the part of the story at the Stone City. I was totally fascinated by it. I could see it in my head, but wished I was really there to see it in person. The place sounded amazing. The anthropologist in my also ended up a bit disappointed, though, because the story of the Anzar tribe is left kind of incomplete due to the twists of the plot. I was a bit bummed I didn't get to learn more about the Anzar. Yeah, it's fictional, but it was still fascinating.
The one area I had a bit of a complaint about was the lack of character development, especially for Ben. Jillian's pretty solid...as a reader you know who she is, where she came from, what drives her, and all that. But Ben starts off and ends as pretty much a mystery. All you really learn abut him is that at twenty he hopped a freighter and ended up in Brazil where he stayed and was an adventure guide. Nothing else. There's times where Jillian asks about his past and the narrative says he got quite and a bleak look in his eyes, but you never learn any more. I wanted to know who Ben was...why'd he leave? What about his family? Did he ever want to go back to the US? When the book ended Ben was just a big blank in a lot of ways and I found that really frustrating.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the book. And it shows that Howard's older stuff is top-notch. I wish she'd return to the type of stories she used to write.
August 9, 2011
The beauty of old LH heroes are that they start of as jerks, with the only thing on their mind being sex and the heroine usually not being their type, but as the book progresses not only do they start noticing the heroine too much besides wanting them in bed, by the end of they don't want to be away from them and Hearts of Fire is no less and is set in the Amazon.
The hero Ben Lewis is an Alabama boy but he's been in Brazil since he was 20, working as a guide. He likes his life, drinking, blowing off steam after doing some guide work with a busty waitress, so when a shady guy he knows along with another guy offers him a lot of money for some guide work he agrees, he likes money but he is going to be careful.
Jillian Sherwood is an archaeologist, just like her dad but she is frustrated since no-one takes her seriously because of her father, a man who believed or atleast chased a lot of legends and even died in the Amazon while trying to find a lost city which he believed housed Amazon warriors. Jillian always loved her father, her step-brother not so much, so she goes to see his stuff years after his death and finds proof that her father knew what he was doing. In her excitement she blurts out the truth (a part of it) to her brother Rick and later on also that she can't find backers. Rick brings a man along to finance their trip, Jillian goes along not trusting the two but still wanting to prove her father right.
I liked Jillian she was ballsy and gutsy, she knew how to carry her weight and protect herself(bought a gun) and the first time she meets Ben when he deliberately tries to be crude she leaves him feeling foolish.
Once their trip begins there is danger but Ben tries to keep Jillian close a) he wants to get into her pants bad b) he knows the others have plans.
It was fascinating seeing Ben's frustration when Jillian refused to just fall into his plans even when he constantly tried to invoke the chemistry between them and Jillian knew how to rile him good.
Linda Howard's best books have this earthly sensuality and this one is no less. Ben starts of lusting after her and later he just wants to keep her. I enjoyed the book a lot, though Ben did add thick at one part but makes up nicely for it at the end with a grand gesture.
A quote
She didn't want him to be sweet; she wanted him to be the Ben Lewis she was accustomed to: shameless, raunchy, and reckless. Brave, too, she mentally added, to give the devil his due. Intimidatingly capable. Dangerous. Ruthless.
The hero Ben Lewis is an Alabama boy but he's been in Brazil since he was 20, working as a guide. He likes his life, drinking, blowing off steam after doing some guide work with a busty waitress, so when a shady guy he knows along with another guy offers him a lot of money for some guide work he agrees, he likes money but he is going to be careful.
Jillian Sherwood is an archaeologist, just like her dad but she is frustrated since no-one takes her seriously because of her father, a man who believed or atleast chased a lot of legends and even died in the Amazon while trying to find a lost city which he believed housed Amazon warriors. Jillian always loved her father, her step-brother not so much, so she goes to see his stuff years after his death and finds proof that her father knew what he was doing. In her excitement she blurts out the truth (a part of it) to her brother Rick and later on also that she can't find backers. Rick brings a man along to finance their trip, Jillian goes along not trusting the two but still wanting to prove her father right.
I liked Jillian she was ballsy and gutsy, she knew how to carry her weight and protect herself(bought a gun) and the first time she meets Ben when he deliberately tries to be crude she leaves him feeling foolish.
Once their trip begins there is danger but Ben tries to keep Jillian close a) he wants to get into her pants bad b) he knows the others have plans.
It was fascinating seeing Ben's frustration when Jillian refused to just fall into his plans even when he constantly tried to invoke the chemistry between them and Jillian knew how to rile him good.
Linda Howard's best books have this earthly sensuality and this one is no less. Ben starts of lusting after her and later he just wants to keep her. I enjoyed the book a lot, though Ben did add thick at one part but makes up nicely for it at the end with a grand gesture.
A quote
She didn't want him to be sweet; she wanted him to be the Ben Lewis she was accustomed to: shameless, raunchy, and reckless. Brave, too, she mentally added, to give the devil his due. Intimidatingly capable. Dangerous. Ruthless.
March 4, 2017
What was beautifully descriptive book.. and a lovely story too.
Jillian Sherwood is an archeologist who is in search of a good historical find. Since her father disappeared after searching for one of his mythical cities Anzar, she's been working in small finds. When yet another job foundation rejects her credentials just because of her family name- she finds herself going through her dad's old books- only to find clues.
Soon she's on an expedition with her estranged and hateful brother Rick and conman Kates who finances it.
They hire their "guide" Ben, who lives for pleasures of the flesh during the day- but is a slick forager of the forest and river by the night.
As they move deeper into the journey with a couple of other men; sparks fly between the main couple , loads of adventures are experienced, cities are discovered and people are exposed.
I absolutely loved the description of the forests, the lakes and the whole voyage. You can practically feel yourself with them- and since I love Amazon and all things forest-y- this was just a wonderful literary experience.
Jill and Ben were a wonderful couple. I enjoyed their banter and their eventual chemistry.
Kudos to the super hot love scenes in the rain and especially to the one after she runs away.. SMOKIN!!
Really enjoyed this read
Safe
4.25/5
Jillian Sherwood is an archeologist who is in search of a good historical find. Since her father disappeared after searching for one of his mythical cities Anzar, she's been working in small finds. When yet another job foundation rejects her credentials just because of her family name- she finds herself going through her dad's old books- only to find clues.
Soon she's on an expedition with her estranged and hateful brother Rick and conman Kates who finances it.
They hire their "guide" Ben, who lives for pleasures of the flesh during the day- but is a slick forager of the forest and river by the night.
As they move deeper into the journey with a couple of other men; sparks fly between the main couple , loads of adventures are experienced, cities are discovered and people are exposed.
I absolutely loved the description of the forests, the lakes and the whole voyage. You can practically feel yourself with them- and since I love Amazon and all things forest-y- this was just a wonderful literary experience.
Jill and Ben were a wonderful couple. I enjoyed their banter and their eventual chemistry.
Kudos to the super hot love scenes in the rain and especially to the one after she runs away.. SMOKIN!!
Really enjoyed this read
Safe
4.25/5
August 27, 2016
4.5 stars for this audio update: Great narration by Tanya Eby Sirois (but she mispronounced the name Joachim, repeatedly). Erotic and suspenseful story (but too much time is spent with Ben thinking about sex). Read this eons ago. It reminds me of Howard's other jungle-love novel, Midnight Rainbow, and other books, listed below.
Loved Ben. The arrogant sob playboy. Earthy, alpha, bold, gritty, and crazy for Jillian. He's passionate, protective, possessive, and determined, but in the end, he gives it all up for love. Sigh.
Excellent suspense. So many great twists and turns. Believable plot. Nothing that stretched my credulity. Consistent characterization. Edge of your seat tension. Dutra, a nasty piece of work. Rick, a little texture there.
I liked.
PLOT: Jillian Sherwood is an archaeologist. To posthumously repair her father's tattered reputation, and to protect her dumb-butt brother, she is dragged off to the Amazon Rainforest of Brazil. With her brother and a small crew, they will search for a legendary diamond and evidence of the mythological Anzar tribe. If they find it, their father's rep will be restored.
They hire Ben Lewis, the best rainforest guide in Brazil, and the horniest rascal in South America. With courage, Ben and Jillian travel with friends, family, and unknown foes into the rainforest, facing all sorts of perils: hostile natives, crumbling cliffs, thundering waterfalls, cavernous passages, murderous thieves, and an awakening love.
In a finishing plot twist they confront civilization, including media hounds and a few academic weasels.
Recommended Rainforest Romances:
Imagine by Jill Barnett
Midnight Rainbow by Linda Howard
Night of the Jaguar by Merline Lovelace
The Soldier And The Baby by Anne Stuart, also published in e-book collection Anne Stuart's Out-of-Print Gems
On Thin Ice by Anne Stuart
Loved Ben. The arrogant sob playboy. Earthy, alpha, bold, gritty, and crazy for Jillian. He's passionate, protective, possessive, and determined, but in the end, he gives it all up for love. Sigh.
Excellent suspense. So many great twists and turns. Believable plot. Nothing that stretched my credulity. Consistent characterization. Edge of your seat tension. Dutra, a nasty piece of work. Rick, a little texture there.
I liked.
PLOT: Jillian Sherwood is an archaeologist. To posthumously repair her father's tattered reputation, and to protect her dumb-butt brother, she is dragged off to the Amazon Rainforest of Brazil. With her brother and a small crew, they will search for a legendary diamond and evidence of the mythological Anzar tribe. If they find it, their father's rep will be restored.
They hire Ben Lewis, the best rainforest guide in Brazil, and the horniest rascal in South America. With courage, Ben and Jillian travel with friends, family, and unknown foes into the rainforest, facing all sorts of perils: hostile natives, crumbling cliffs, thundering waterfalls, cavernous passages, murderous thieves, and an awakening love.
In a finishing plot twist they confront civilization, including media hounds and a few academic weasels.
Recommended Rainforest Romances:
Imagine by Jill Barnett
Midnight Rainbow by Linda Howard
Night of the Jaguar by Merline Lovelace
The Soldier And The Baby by Anne Stuart, also published in e-book collection Anne Stuart's Out-of-Print Gems
On Thin Ice by Anne Stuart
May 21, 2017
2 ½ stars. Mixed feelings. Not as good as the author’s other books.
I first read this in 2007 and really liked it. In 2015 I read it again and skimmed a lot. In 2017 I bought the audiobook and again it was not as good as the first time.
I did not care about the big misunderstanding.
STORY BRIEF:
American female archaeologist has a coded map showing the way to an ancient civilization in the Amazon jungle. Her brother arranges for a wealthy drug dealer to fund the expedition. They hire a guide. She and the guide eventually fall in love. The drug dealer brings along a hit man with plans to kill everyone after they obtain the valuable red diamond.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
Tanya Eby Sirois was good. She has a slight lisp which comes out at times.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 309 pages. Swearing language: moderate plus s*** and religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: eight. Setting: current day mostly Brazil. Copyright: 1993. Genre: contemporary romance adventure.
I first read this in 2007 and really liked it. In 2015 I read it again and skimmed a lot. In 2017 I bought the audiobook and again it was not as good as the first time.
I did not care about the big misunderstanding.
STORY BRIEF:
American female archaeologist has a coded map showing the way to an ancient civilization in the Amazon jungle. Her brother arranges for a wealthy drug dealer to fund the expedition. They hire a guide. She and the guide eventually fall in love. The drug dealer brings along a hit man with plans to kill everyone after they obtain the valuable red diamond.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
Tanya Eby Sirois was good. She has a slight lisp which comes out at times.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 309 pages. Swearing language: moderate plus s*** and religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: eight. Setting: current day mostly Brazil. Copyright: 1993. Genre: contemporary romance adventure.
October 27, 2012
Just finished it, and what a wonderful, fun story!
The lead male character Ben is such an 'Alpha', and the lead female, Jillian is strong, determined, intelligent, witty, sexy, and no-nonsense.... I ABSOLUTELY loved her!
... and together, their story is amazing!
another great story by Linda Howard :)
The lead male character Ben is such an 'Alpha', and the lead female, Jillian is strong, determined, intelligent, witty, sexy, and no-nonsense.... I ABSOLUTELY loved her!
... and together, their story is amazing!
another great story by Linda Howard :)
April 19, 2020
I am not really a fan of suspense and adventure so I didn't like this. Ben was a sexy hero though.
April 11, 2017
Heart of Fire
4 Stars
The daughter of a notorious "crackpot" archeologist, Jillian Sherwood is determined to restore her father's reputation, as well as her own, by locating the lost Stone City of the Anzar, the legendary home of the Amazon warriors. To attain her goal, Jillian must join forces with Ben Lewis, a womanizing ruffian and the best river guide Brazil has to offer. As Ben and Jillian clash wills and wits, danger lurks around every bend and they will have to work together to get out of the jungle in one piece.
An action-packed romp through the jungle with a strong willed and feisty heroine, and a gorgeous, if somewhat overly testosterone laden, hero.
The sparks between Jillian and Ben fly from the start and their snarky repartee, as he tries to get in her pants at every opportunity and she stops him in his tracks, is very amusing. Their romance develops slowly but surely toward the inevitable, and the eventual "I love yous" are sweet and believable.
The basic plot involving the expedition down the Rio Negro is captivating. Howard has certainly done her due diligence on the locale both in terms of the detailed descriptions of the journey, including information on the river itself, the wildlife and the various aspects of archeological research, as well as the specifics of the history and the legend of the Amazons.
The villains are apparent from the start, but this does not reduce the tension or suspense one iota.
In sun, a steamy hot romance with likable characters and an exciting storyline.
4 Stars
The daughter of a notorious "crackpot" archeologist, Jillian Sherwood is determined to restore her father's reputation, as well as her own, by locating the lost Stone City of the Anzar, the legendary home of the Amazon warriors. To attain her goal, Jillian must join forces with Ben Lewis, a womanizing ruffian and the best river guide Brazil has to offer. As Ben and Jillian clash wills and wits, danger lurks around every bend and they will have to work together to get out of the jungle in one piece.
An action-packed romp through the jungle with a strong willed and feisty heroine, and a gorgeous, if somewhat overly testosterone laden, hero.
The sparks between Jillian and Ben fly from the start and their snarky repartee, as he tries to get in her pants at every opportunity and she stops him in his tracks, is very amusing. Their romance develops slowly but surely toward the inevitable, and the eventual "I love yous" are sweet and believable.
The basic plot involving the expedition down the Rio Negro is captivating. Howard has certainly done her due diligence on the locale both in terms of the detailed descriptions of the journey, including information on the river itself, the wildlife and the various aspects of archeological research, as well as the specifics of the history and the legend of the Amazons.
The villains are apparent from the start, but this does not reduce the tension or suspense one iota.
In sun, a steamy hot romance with likable characters and an exciting storyline.
August 9, 2016
This is totally the kind of genre that make me start obsessing with romance read in the first place. Great plot, hottie hero, spunky heroin, bad guys, action, adventure, laugh out loud humor...... you name it.
Jillian Sherwood, an archaeologist needs to set off to an expedition to the heart of Amazon to prove the existence of Anzar City in order to revive her late father's reputation and her own. From the excerpt, I thought the expedition was only comprise of Jillian and Ben, the experienced river guide. But that's not the case. Once her stepbrother, Rick found out about it, he insist to tag along with Kates. Is obvious that they are in for the treasure. Along with a hired thug, Dutra and several other native helps hired by Ben, they are all in for a rough ride through the Amazon jungle.
At first glance, Ben Lewis looks like a drunk and haggard river dude who spent too much time in the tropical country for his own good. But Jillian quickly realize that behind his lackluster and easy going facade, he knows his stuff and is one of the best river guide available. Although he definitely pissed her off with his crude mouth, blatant come on and so sure of himself. The things they bicker and banter make me laugh my ass off.
"You have underwear."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Did you try it on?"
"Nah. Just rubbed it against my face."
I really like Jillian, she is brainy but not nerdy and she is not a damsel in distress that require any saving. She can hold her own in the harsh jungle condition. Ben made it clear as crystal that he is seducing his way into her pants on the first day and she tried to hold him off as long as humanly possible. But we know that she is not an uptight lady, she just love seeing him getting sexually frustrated and seeing him suffer is so damn funny. Nothing ever stay long in this guy's head beside thinking of sex and more sex.
"It's not the heat," came his return mutter. "It's a critical buildup of sperm".
I'm with Ben on this that I don't see any appeal in all the old bones and stuff. They have different opinion when comes to the archaeology business and in the end it really come to bite their ass. Rick, Kates and Dutra the bad trio serves as a great supporting cast. What is a good plot without the necessary villain to spice things up.
Jillian Sherwood, an archaeologist needs to set off to an expedition to the heart of Amazon to prove the existence of Anzar City in order to revive her late father's reputation and her own. From the excerpt, I thought the expedition was only comprise of Jillian and Ben, the experienced river guide. But that's not the case. Once her stepbrother, Rick found out about it, he insist to tag along with Kates. Is obvious that they are in for the treasure. Along with a hired thug, Dutra and several other native helps hired by Ben, they are all in for a rough ride through the Amazon jungle.
At first glance, Ben Lewis looks like a drunk and haggard river dude who spent too much time in the tropical country for his own good. But Jillian quickly realize that behind his lackluster and easy going facade, he knows his stuff and is one of the best river guide available. Although he definitely pissed her off with his crude mouth, blatant come on and so sure of himself. The things they bicker and banter make me laugh my ass off.
"You have underwear."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Did you try it on?"
"Nah. Just rubbed it against my face."
I really like Jillian, she is brainy but not nerdy and she is not a damsel in distress that require any saving. She can hold her own in the harsh jungle condition. Ben made it clear as crystal that he is seducing his way into her pants on the first day and she tried to hold him off as long as humanly possible. But we know that she is not an uptight lady, she just love seeing him getting sexually frustrated and seeing him suffer is so damn funny. Nothing ever stay long in this guy's head beside thinking of sex and more sex.
"It's not the heat," came his return mutter. "It's a critical buildup of sperm".
I'm with Ben on this that I don't see any appeal in all the old bones and stuff. They have different opinion when comes to the archaeology business and in the end it really come to bite their ass. Rick, Kates and Dutra the bad trio serves as a great supporting cast. What is a good plot without the necessary villain to spice things up.
May 22, 2011
5 Fantastic Stars!! This book is everything a romantic suspense should be, and I just loved it.
Ben Lewis is a delicious, cocky, larger than life H that oozes sexuality. Jillian Sherwood is my favorite kind of h, she is intelligent, determined, average in appearance, and when Ben taunts her she goes right back at him. She is a challenge for him, and he has to have her. Jillian just wants him to do his job, but her attraction to him is undeniable. The chemistry between them just sizzles. The book was filled with witty banter and sexual innuendos that had me laughing out loud. As much as she tries to keep him at arm’s length, he slowly cracks away at her resistance. They inevitably act on their attraction and it is HOT and STEAMY, just like the Brazilian rainforest that is the setting for this adventure. Their trek to the Stone City brings with it death, mishaps, and betrayal. All that and a sweet HEA, I did not want it to end.
This one is a keeper and now one of my favorite Linda Howard books. I will definitely be going back and getting me some more Ben Lewis.
Thanks for the great recommendation Kathleen!
August 1, 2014
FOUR AND A HALF STARS!
If you have never read a Linda Howard book in your life, then Heart of Fire would be an awesome book to introduce you to her. Being a huge fan of hers, I can't help but be a little biased when it comes to her works, but ultimately, I think this is a sure winner for fans of contemporary romances who adore strong women, sexy and unabashed heroes and a little suspense to keep those pages turning.
Jillian Sherwood is a woman with nothing to lose. All her life, she has had to work under the label given to her late father, a "crackpot" scholar who's flights of whimsy had eventually claimed his life. His standing within the archaeology community had made it so that others do not take her seriously, despite being fairly successful within her own right. Angered at the way opportunities are being withheld from her, Jillian peruses through her father's work, determined to clear his name and to kickstart her dwindling career. It is here that she discovers her father's findings on a lost Amazon city based around the myth of "the heart of The Empress," a myth that draws the interest of her deadbeat brother and his associate. They enlist the help of a river guide, Ben Lewis, and as their team travels towards the lost city, Jillian comes to realise that clearing her father's name may be too high a price for her to pay.
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this book. All the characters worked for me. Jillian is a strong and feisty female, smart and savvy and not your typical heroine in the sense that she is trim, small-breasted and entirely capable, which is a refreshing change. Ben is your loveable rascal, simple with his wants and pleasures, and generally good guy. The connection between them is instantaneous, and the progression of their relationship is sexy and slow, so that when they both start dropping the L-word, you have no doubts about the sincerity of their words. And the banter, my goodness, the banter is amazing. Case in point:
What also worked was the overall simplicity of the story. There aren't any plot twists that you wouldn't see coming; its all pretty straightforward. The imagery is great, and I could certainly envision every aspect of their journey. I also enjoyed the sense of empowerment this book gave to women. What with Jillian being perfectly capable of taking care of herself, much to the chagrin of Ben's overprotective and possessive instincts, the feature of female warriors, and strangely enough, Teresa, with her uncomplicated sexuality and the fact that Ben praises it rather than demeans her for it.
Would I recommend it? Yes, a thousand times yes. If you're a hopeless romantic like me with a streak for adventure, then you would absolutely love this book!
If you have never read a Linda Howard book in your life, then Heart of Fire would be an awesome book to introduce you to her. Being a huge fan of hers, I can't help but be a little biased when it comes to her works, but ultimately, I think this is a sure winner for fans of contemporary romances who adore strong women, sexy and unabashed heroes and a little suspense to keep those pages turning.
Jillian Sherwood is a woman with nothing to lose. All her life, she has had to work under the label given to her late father, a "crackpot" scholar who's flights of whimsy had eventually claimed his life. His standing within the archaeology community had made it so that others do not take her seriously, despite being fairly successful within her own right. Angered at the way opportunities are being withheld from her, Jillian peruses through her father's work, determined to clear his name and to kickstart her dwindling career. It is here that she discovers her father's findings on a lost Amazon city based around the myth of "the heart of The Empress," a myth that draws the interest of her deadbeat brother and his associate. They enlist the help of a river guide, Ben Lewis, and as their team travels towards the lost city, Jillian comes to realise that clearing her father's name may be too high a price for her to pay.
I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this book. All the characters worked for me. Jillian is a strong and feisty female, smart and savvy and not your typical heroine in the sense that she is trim, small-breasted and entirely capable, which is a refreshing change. Ben is your loveable rascal, simple with his wants and pleasures, and generally good guy. The connection between them is instantaneous, and the progression of their relationship is sexy and slow, so that when they both start dropping the L-word, you have no doubts about the sincerity of their words. And the banter, my goodness, the banter is amazing. Case in point:
He looked suspiciously at her purse.
"No, it isn't in there," she said and smiled at him. "And I'm not buying your act. You found it when you searched my room, so you know I have a pistol, you know what kind it is, and you know where it is."
He smiled back at her, not denying the charge. Of course he had searched her room while he'd had the chance. "You have nice underwear."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Did you try it on?"
Nah. Just rubbed my face against it."
What also worked was the overall simplicity of the story. There aren't any plot twists that you wouldn't see coming; its all pretty straightforward. The imagery is great, and I could certainly envision every aspect of their journey. I also enjoyed the sense of empowerment this book gave to women. What with Jillian being perfectly capable of taking care of herself, much to the chagrin of Ben's overprotective and possessive instincts, the feature of female warriors, and strangely enough, Teresa, with her uncomplicated sexuality and the fact that Ben praises it rather than demeans her for it.
Would I recommend it? Yes, a thousand times yes. If you're a hopeless romantic like me with a streak for adventure, then you would absolutely love this book!
July 15, 2023
1000/5⭐
“No estaban haciendo historia; la estaban desenterrando, aprendiendo cosas acerca de un aspecto desconocido de la vida humana sobre la Tierra. Cuando sostenía en sus manos un trozo de alfarería que todavía conservaba restos de un dibujo, le sorprendía pensar que alguien, siglos antes, lo hubiera moldeado y embellecido para que decorara su vida, y luego lo hubiera usado día tras día. Era como sostener el tiempo entre las manos y resultaba reconfortante comprobar que los individuos morían, pero que la vida continuaba.”
❤️🔥LPM!Esto es un novelón de aquellos desde los dos capítulos, una novela romántica publicada en 1993 , que muestra más que una historia de amor sino una excelente investigación que hace la autora sobre el Amazonas.
❤️🔥He leído muy poco a Linda Howard pero hasta ahora no me ha decepcionado. “Corazón de Fuego” pertenece a la colección “Romantísima”y la historia va de arqueólogos, estilo Indiana Jones.
❤️🔥Como siempre, cuando tengo ante mí, una historia maravillosa, no me salen las palabras porque es una novela romántica, de aventuras, sin exceso de escenas sexuales, pero sí que es parte de una época en donde la mujer arqueóloga no era considerada de la misma manera que a los hombres que se dedican a ésta tarea. No solo por ser mujer, sino por ser la hija de Cyrus Sherwood, apodado “el loco” por creer en la existencia de la ciudad de Los Anzar, integrada por una tribu que se extinguió hace miles de años, creencia que jamás pudo probar.
❤️🔥Jillian Sherwood vive en Los Ángeles y quiere limpiar el mal nombre de su papá, el cual ha fallecido en una de sus expediciones. Jillian es una joven arqueóloga, no es bonita pero sí muy inteligente que decide para ello, emprender la búsqueda de ésa tribu y para ello tendrá que viajar a Manaos, Brasil junto a su hermano Rick y Steven Kates, narcotraficante, quien financiará la expedición con el único objetivo, de obtener el diamante rojo y así pagar todas sus deudas. Pero una vez en Manaos, necesitarán contratar a Ben Lewis, bohemio, un hombre duro, atlético y de ojos claros, piel tostado y pelo largo, es un excelente guía que los llevará por el río Amazonas, por la selva a una zona inexplorada, llena de peligros y lograr descubrir el lugar soñado.
❤️🔥Ben es un hombre que remueve las hormonas de Jillian, aunque ésta se niega a reconocerlo. Él es un hombre que no busca compromisos con las mujeres y Jillian no es el tipo de mujer con la que él acostumbra ir a la cama. Y muchos menos, llevar a la selva a una expedición arqueológico, que a ojos de él es “cazar el arcoiris”; Porque ni bien se encuentra con ella, con Rick y Kates, Ben se niega rotundamente llevarlos al amazonas, partiendo de que no ve ningún atractivo en cosas viejas como huesos y bacinillas, pero ella insiste tanto y es la única que conoce el lugar, más la insistencia de los otros dos, por razones económicas, decide escoltarlos, recordándoles que es una auténtica locura y amenazandolos con dejarlos en medio de la selva (y ganas no le faltan).
❤️🔥Corazón de fuego es una novela que me impactó porque no esperaba encontrarme con tamaña investigación, no sé, me da la sensación que Linda Howard estuvo en el Amazonas porque explora cosas de las que yo no tenía ni remota idea como los mitos, pero más me impactó la descripción del paisaje, del color de las aguas, las tormentas tropicales, la flora y fauna. ANONADADA me quedaba porque era como estar en la lancha junto a los personajes. Y ni hablar acerca del conocimiento sobre las tribus locales.
❤️🔥Ben es el típico héroe sexy, macho alfa, que a nada teme, o sea un chico malo, que a primera vista parece un borracho y demacrado que pasó demasiado tiempo en el país tropical. Sin embargo, Jillian se da cuenta de que detrás de su fachada mediocre y tranquila, él sabe lo que hace y es uno de los mejores guías de ríos. Se presenta como un grosero, descarado pero ella está segura de sí misma y no dará brazo a torcer. ¡Las cosas que discuten me hicieron reír mucho!
❤️🔥Por último no quiero dejar pasar que hay un trío malo que sirven como apoyo y… madre mía cómo me hicieron sufrir. Pero la novela tiene un final feliz, hay amor pero también se centra más en los valores y la moral, de aquello que es correcto.
❤️🔥Si lo pueden encontrar en librerías de usados o bibliotecas públicas LEANLO. 💯por 💯recomendado. Lo único negativo: tiene un par de errores ortográficos pero… es cosa de la traducción y se lo perdono. ES UN PLACER leer éstas novelas viejitas; Y sí, al ser una novela antigua tiene cortas actitudes machistas pero que la autora por medio de Jillian las reconoce y lejos de ser sumisa, hace frente a dichos comportamientos. No es para nada una lectura incómoda.
“No estaban haciendo historia; la estaban desenterrando, aprendiendo cosas acerca de un aspecto desconocido de la vida humana sobre la Tierra. Cuando sostenía en sus manos un trozo de alfarería que todavía conservaba restos de un dibujo, le sorprendía pensar que alguien, siglos antes, lo hubiera moldeado y embellecido para que decorara su vida, y luego lo hubiera usado día tras día. Era como sostener el tiempo entre las manos y resultaba reconfortante comprobar que los individuos morían, pero que la vida continuaba.”
❤️🔥LPM!Esto es un novelón de aquellos desde los dos capítulos, una novela romántica publicada en 1993 , que muestra más que una historia de amor sino una excelente investigación que hace la autora sobre el Amazonas.
❤️🔥He leído muy poco a Linda Howard pero hasta ahora no me ha decepcionado. “Corazón de Fuego” pertenece a la colección “Romantísima”y la historia va de arqueólogos, estilo Indiana Jones.
❤️🔥Como siempre, cuando tengo ante mí, una historia maravillosa, no me salen las palabras porque es una novela romántica, de aventuras, sin exceso de escenas sexuales, pero sí que es parte de una época en donde la mujer arqueóloga no era considerada de la misma manera que a los hombres que se dedican a ésta tarea. No solo por ser mujer, sino por ser la hija de Cyrus Sherwood, apodado “el loco” por creer en la existencia de la ciudad de Los Anzar, integrada por una tribu que se extinguió hace miles de años, creencia que jamás pudo probar.
❤️🔥Jillian Sherwood vive en Los Ángeles y quiere limpiar el mal nombre de su papá, el cual ha fallecido en una de sus expediciones. Jillian es una joven arqueóloga, no es bonita pero sí muy inteligente que decide para ello, emprender la búsqueda de ésa tribu y para ello tendrá que viajar a Manaos, Brasil junto a su hermano Rick y Steven Kates, narcotraficante, quien financiará la expedición con el único objetivo, de obtener el diamante rojo y así pagar todas sus deudas. Pero una vez en Manaos, necesitarán contratar a Ben Lewis, bohemio, un hombre duro, atlético y de ojos claros, piel tostado y pelo largo, es un excelente guía que los llevará por el río Amazonas, por la selva a una zona inexplorada, llena de peligros y lograr descubrir el lugar soñado.
❤️🔥Ben es un hombre que remueve las hormonas de Jillian, aunque ésta se niega a reconocerlo. Él es un hombre que no busca compromisos con las mujeres y Jillian no es el tipo de mujer con la que él acostumbra ir a la cama. Y muchos menos, llevar a la selva a una expedición arqueológico, que a ojos de él es “cazar el arcoiris”; Porque ni bien se encuentra con ella, con Rick y Kates, Ben se niega rotundamente llevarlos al amazonas, partiendo de que no ve ningún atractivo en cosas viejas como huesos y bacinillas, pero ella insiste tanto y es la única que conoce el lugar, más la insistencia de los otros dos, por razones económicas, decide escoltarlos, recordándoles que es una auténtica locura y amenazandolos con dejarlos en medio de la selva (y ganas no le faltan).
❤️🔥Corazón de fuego es una novela que me impactó porque no esperaba encontrarme con tamaña investigación, no sé, me da la sensación que Linda Howard estuvo en el Amazonas porque explora cosas de las que yo no tenía ni remota idea como los mitos, pero más me impactó la descripción del paisaje, del color de las aguas, las tormentas tropicales, la flora y fauna. ANONADADA me quedaba porque era como estar en la lancha junto a los personajes. Y ni hablar acerca del conocimiento sobre las tribus locales.
❤️🔥Ben es el típico héroe sexy, macho alfa, que a nada teme, o sea un chico malo, que a primera vista parece un borracho y demacrado que pasó demasiado tiempo en el país tropical. Sin embargo, Jillian se da cuenta de que detrás de su fachada mediocre y tranquila, él sabe lo que hace y es uno de los mejores guías de ríos. Se presenta como un grosero, descarado pero ella está segura de sí misma y no dará brazo a torcer. ¡Las cosas que discuten me hicieron reír mucho!
❤️🔥Por último no quiero dejar pasar que hay un trío malo que sirven como apoyo y… madre mía cómo me hicieron sufrir. Pero la novela tiene un final feliz, hay amor pero también se centra más en los valores y la moral, de aquello que es correcto.
❤️🔥Si lo pueden encontrar en librerías de usados o bibliotecas públicas LEANLO. 💯por 💯recomendado. Lo único negativo: tiene un par de errores ortográficos pero… es cosa de la traducción y se lo perdono. ES UN PLACER leer éstas novelas viejitas; Y sí, al ser una novela antigua tiene cortas actitudes machistas pero que la autora por medio de Jillian las reconoce y lejos de ser sumisa, hace frente a dichos comportamientos. No es para nada una lectura incómoda.
April 14, 2018
I did love Romancing the Stone when I was a teen, I really couldn't not love this. Until the end I was not sure how it would go.
July 6, 2012
Jillian Sherwood, berusaha membuktikan teori ayahnya bahwa kaum Amazon yang terdiri atas wanita2 perkasa, memang benar hidup di belantara Amazon, sementara banyak orang yang tidak percaya pada sang ayah, bahkan menjulukinya "Crackpot".
Dengan ditemani sang kakak dan sponsor, mereka (yang sayangnya namanya aku lupa, hohohoho :)) ) menyanggupi untuk menemani Jillian. Walaupun sebenarnya kakak Jillian membenci sang adik, tapi karena tahu ada berlian merah langka, yang terdapat dalam peninggalan Suku Amazon, dia pun mau bersusah payah menelusuri rimba Amazon di Brazil
Kakak Jillian kemudian menyewa seorang pemandu.
Dan jreng, jreng, jreng, sambutlah salah satu Pria Seksi di Novel Linda Howard, yang tak kalah seksi dari para Pulisi dan agen EP BI AI, Ben Lewis!! (lebay :p )
Ben sendiri jelas2 tertarik pada Jillian, dan bahkan tidak repot2 menunjukkan rasa tertariknya (terlihat dari caranya memanggil Jillian sweetheart , yang nantinya bakalan berevolusi jadi lebih romantis lagi ^^)
Saat akhirnya mereka menemukan bukti keberadaan Suku Amazon, kejadian tak terduga menimpa mereka. Sponsor Jillian berkhianat dan membunuh kakak Jillian. Jillian dengan ditemani Ben, beusaha keluar dari Amazon. Sampai akhirnya Jillian tahu alasan mereka dikejar2, karena ternyata Ben telah menemukan Permata Amazon dan menyembunyikannya, yang jelas - jelas digunakan untuk kepentingannya sendiri.
Jillian yang merasa dikhianati, meninggalkan Ben, sebelum Ben akhirnya menemukannya dan menjelaskan alasannya.Setelah Jillian menerima Ben kembali mereka masih harus waspada, karena ternyata sang penjahat tidak kenal lelah mengejar mereka untuk mendapatkan permata Amazon.
Salah satu judul dari tante Linda Howard faveku.Ceritanya buaguuuus :D Seru, walau baru keliatan seru2nya di tengah2 cerita. Sebelumnya lumayan boring abis, walaupun sexual tension antara Jillian dan Ben cukup terasa.Anyway the memorable moment , menurutku adalah, adegan "ehem2" mereka di Hutan Amazon, sambil hujan2an dan setelah itu mendapati mereka diawasi oleh suku sekitar. Hot, tapi juga lucu banget ^^
My favorite quote and scene:
He carefully kept his hand away from the pistol. This was a band of hunters; the six-foot arrows they carried were tipped with poison, probably cyanide, not a substance he cared to screw around with. He spoke with them in their language. The oldest of the Yanomami, a dignified man with graying hair, replied.
After a few moments of conversation she could see the Indians relax, the stern cast of their features easing into smiles. The gray-haired man said something as he slapped his hands together several times, and they all laughed.
Ben was chuckling too.
"What's funny?" she asked.
"Oh, nothing."
He couldn't have said anything that would have made her more suspicious, or more curious.
"What? You'd better tell me."
"He just wondered why we were making slap-slap in the rain, instead of in our funny little moloca—that's 'house' to them, 'tent' to you."
Jillian could feel her face heat up as she realized there had been several very interested but puzzled witnesses to their lovemaking, but at the same time she had an almost overwhelming urge to laugh. "Slap-slap?" she asked faintly.
Ben's eyes were alive with merriment. "Yeah, you know." He lightly clapped his hands together, re-creating with devilish accuracy the sound of wet bodies moving together in hard rhythm. "Slap-slap."
Quickly she put her hands over her mouth, but the laughter gurgled out anyway. The Yanomami began laughing again, genially joining her mirth.
He looked smug. "I gather they were also impressed by both my… shall we say presence, and my technique."
"Shut up," she gasped, trying to gulp back the giggles. "Or I'll slap-slap your face-face."
His expression changed to one of pure ecstasy. "Oh, God," he said. "Would you?"
Selalu ngakak tiap baca bagian ini =))
Siapapun yang mengaku sebagai fans berat Linda Howard, dan kangen dengan gaya cerita beliau pada awal2 karirnya, menyukai cerita romance yang dibumbui dengan petualangan dan aksi, wajib baca Heart of Fire! :D
Dengan ditemani sang kakak dan sponsor, mereka (yang sayangnya namanya aku lupa, hohohoho :)) ) menyanggupi untuk menemani Jillian. Walaupun sebenarnya kakak Jillian membenci sang adik, tapi karena tahu ada berlian merah langka, yang terdapat dalam peninggalan Suku Amazon, dia pun mau bersusah payah menelusuri rimba Amazon di Brazil
Kakak Jillian kemudian menyewa seorang pemandu.
Dan jreng, jreng, jreng, sambutlah salah satu Pria Seksi di Novel Linda Howard, yang tak kalah seksi dari para Pulisi dan agen EP BI AI, Ben Lewis!! (lebay :p )
Ben sendiri jelas2 tertarik pada Jillian, dan bahkan tidak repot2 menunjukkan rasa tertariknya (terlihat dari caranya memanggil Jillian sweetheart , yang nantinya bakalan berevolusi jadi lebih romantis lagi ^^)
Saat akhirnya mereka menemukan bukti keberadaan Suku Amazon, kejadian tak terduga menimpa mereka. Sponsor Jillian berkhianat dan membunuh kakak Jillian. Jillian dengan ditemani Ben, beusaha keluar dari Amazon. Sampai akhirnya Jillian tahu alasan mereka dikejar2, karena ternyata Ben telah menemukan Permata Amazon dan menyembunyikannya, yang jelas - jelas digunakan untuk kepentingannya sendiri.
Jillian yang merasa dikhianati, meninggalkan Ben, sebelum Ben akhirnya menemukannya dan menjelaskan alasannya.Setelah Jillian menerima Ben kembali mereka masih harus waspada, karena ternyata sang penjahat tidak kenal lelah mengejar mereka untuk mendapatkan permata Amazon.
Salah satu judul dari tante Linda Howard faveku.Ceritanya buaguuuus :D Seru, walau baru keliatan seru2nya di tengah2 cerita. Sebelumnya lumayan boring abis, walaupun sexual tension antara Jillian dan Ben cukup terasa.Anyway the memorable moment , menurutku adalah, adegan "ehem2" mereka di Hutan Amazon, sambil hujan2an dan setelah itu mendapati mereka diawasi oleh suku sekitar. Hot, tapi juga lucu banget ^^
My favorite quote and scene:
He carefully kept his hand away from the pistol. This was a band of hunters; the six-foot arrows they carried were tipped with poison, probably cyanide, not a substance he cared to screw around with. He spoke with them in their language. The oldest of the Yanomami, a dignified man with graying hair, replied.
After a few moments of conversation she could see the Indians relax, the stern cast of their features easing into smiles. The gray-haired man said something as he slapped his hands together several times, and they all laughed.
Ben was chuckling too.
"What's funny?" she asked.
"Oh, nothing."
He couldn't have said anything that would have made her more suspicious, or more curious.
"What? You'd better tell me."
"He just wondered why we were making slap-slap in the rain, instead of in our funny little moloca—that's 'house' to them, 'tent' to you."
Jillian could feel her face heat up as she realized there had been several very interested but puzzled witnesses to their lovemaking, but at the same time she had an almost overwhelming urge to laugh. "Slap-slap?" she asked faintly.
Ben's eyes were alive with merriment. "Yeah, you know." He lightly clapped his hands together, re-creating with devilish accuracy the sound of wet bodies moving together in hard rhythm. "Slap-slap."
Quickly she put her hands over her mouth, but the laughter gurgled out anyway. The Yanomami began laughing again, genially joining her mirth.
He looked smug. "I gather they were also impressed by both my… shall we say presence, and my technique."
"Shut up," she gasped, trying to gulp back the giggles. "Or I'll slap-slap your face-face."
His expression changed to one of pure ecstasy. "Oh, God," he said. "Would you?"
Selalu ngakak tiap baca bagian ini =))
Siapapun yang mengaku sebagai fans berat Linda Howard, dan kangen dengan gaya cerita beliau pada awal2 karirnya, menyukai cerita romance yang dibumbui dengan petualangan dan aksi, wajib baca Heart of Fire! :D
November 21, 2021
This book is a real adventure-romance and I loved it. In the same way that I prefer "Die Hard" over "Something Borrowed", I really like an adventure with my romance. Throw in humor and suspense and I am in heaven. This book has it all. In fact this book reminds me a lot of "Romancing the Stone". My only compliant is that Linda Howard left out any character background for Ben. I would really have liked to know just how he got from a ranch in Alabama to the Amazon in Brazil. We get plenty on why Jillian is on this mission. Her character is very well developed, but next to nothing on Ben. Right up to the end, we don't know if he will do the right thing or not. The romance is very hot but the plot is at times predictable.
Jillian's father has been called Crackpot Sherwood for believing in an lost Amazon city inhabited by women warriors, the City of Stone and the large red diamond legend says is there. Jillian is finding that her father's reputation is impacting her own career in a very negative way. Determined to prove her father right and cement her own reputation, she hooks up with her brother, Rick, and his very shady friend, Kates, to fund an expedition. The guide they hire is Ben Lewis. His first impression of Jillian is that she is crazy to go into the Amazon with a bunch of men for months, and he knows Kates for his very unsavory reputation. It looks like he is going to be in for more that a simple expedition this time.
Jillian's father has been called Crackpot Sherwood for believing in an lost Amazon city inhabited by women warriors, the City of Stone and the large red diamond legend says is there. Jillian is finding that her father's reputation is impacting her own career in a very negative way. Determined to prove her father right and cement her own reputation, she hooks up with her brother, Rick, and his very shady friend, Kates, to fund an expedition. The guide they hire is Ben Lewis. His first impression of Jillian is that she is crazy to go into the Amazon with a bunch of men for months, and he knows Kates for his very unsavory reputation. It looks like he is going to be in for more that a simple expedition this time.
July 14, 2020
4.5 stars
This was SO much fun!! Linda Howard is too good!! I don't think I've ever read a bad Linda Howard book and I hope I never do! I love that her romantic suspense books are not copies of each other and that she explores so many unique settings in her stories.
Heart of Fire was a little old school so the hero was an Alpha through and through. Ben was overly protective and possessive, but he wasn't an asshole and I honestly loved him for it. It took me a while to warm up to him; my first impression of him wasn't that good because of his ladies' man status. But I ended up loving him! I love the way he fell hard for Jillian and I especially love his grand gesture in the end. Ben is quite probably one of Howard's most memorable heroes, especially that scene at the waterfall *faints*. The banter was hilarious, true to Linda Howard's style. Ben kept trying to seduce Jillian and she kept pretending that she wasn't affected. It was such a fun and sexy dynamic, nothing too angsty. I will now always remember this book when hammocks are mentioned LOL.
Overall, Heart of Fire was a sexy, funny, and adventurous romance. I got exactly what I was looking for and I love Linda Howard for it! This is definitely a book I will want to reread in the future.
This was SO much fun!! Linda Howard is too good!! I don't think I've ever read a bad Linda Howard book and I hope I never do! I love that her romantic suspense books are not copies of each other and that she explores so many unique settings in her stories.
Heart of Fire was a little old school so the hero was an Alpha through and through. Ben was overly protective and possessive, but he wasn't an asshole and I honestly loved him for it. It took me a while to warm up to him; my first impression of him wasn't that good because of his ladies' man status. But I ended up loving him! I love the way he fell hard for Jillian and I especially love his grand gesture in the end. Ben is quite probably one of Howard's most memorable heroes, especially that scene at the waterfall *faints*. The banter was hilarious, true to Linda Howard's style. Ben kept trying to seduce Jillian and she kept pretending that she wasn't affected. It was such a fun and sexy dynamic, nothing too angsty. I will now always remember this book when hammocks are mentioned LOL.
Overall, Heart of Fire was a sexy, funny, and adventurous romance. I got exactly what I was looking for and I love Linda Howard for it! This is definitely a book I will want to reread in the future.
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