From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge Book 1) by AL Jackson-review

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Sandy

🩷From Here to Eternity (Moonlit Ridge Book 1) by AL Jackson-review🩷

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 15, 2024

I should have known everything was going to change when she walked into my tattoo shop…
Timid as hell and gorgeous to the extreme. I knew better than even thinking about touching a woman like that.

My life is dangerous.
My calling wicked.
Willing to cross any line to protect the innocent.

I thought I’d never see her again until my little boy tumbled and busted his lip, and I found her working at the doctor’s office.
The woman who’d taken possession of my thoughts.
When it becomes clear she’s in trouble, I offer up a deal.

Twenty questions to earn her trust.
Too bad trusting me is the last thing she should do.
With one kiss, I’m addicted. With one night, we’re falling into a passion greater than either of us has ever known.

The voices in my head warn I can never keep her. She can’t know the secret life I lead.
Only she’s keeping a secret, too.
And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe, even if it means losing everything…

••••

REVIEW:📚 From the author that brought us the masterpiece series that is Redemption Hill; A.L Jackson’s newest series is sure to be her best one yet.

From Here to Eternity is the first installment of her newest series; Moonlit Ridge, and all I can say is that it had me hooked from chapter one.

So much angst! The emotion in this book is truly what struck me the most, you could feel it coming off the pages from the characters as the plot unfolded. You truly could “cut the tension with a knife”

Charleigh has a dark past, one she is still running, one that if she stops to think about may consume her soul, one that no matter what she does always causes her to run again. Her life is grief, loneliness and fear, so much fear. Living under an assumed name, never staying anywhere too long, giving up so much of her life, only to live in constant fear. Until she settles into the smalltown of Moonlit Ridge. After settling in at her newest job, she finally acts on her deepest thoughts of getting a special tattoo. This is where she has her world tossed on its axis and meets River; the tattoo artist.

River is rough and tough, somewhat grumpy, single Dad. He has a thriving tattoo business with a years-long waitlist, a sister that he loves, a little boy that thinks the world of him, and a group of guys that may not be his blood brothers, but they are forged together by something more than that. All these things he will die and kill to protect, River is the definition of a morally gray hero. When Charleigh enters his shop, her presence strikes something so deep in his soul that he doesn’t know what to do, he is thunderstruck. When she tells him she wants a tattoo, and then shows him the design she wants, it’s that moment that (i think) their story really starts.

For what is being said is a slow burn romance, it sure didn’t feel like one. River and Charleigh have such a visceral, emotional connection that everytime they are together it feels like it’s the first time (as a reader). River is slow to earn Charleigh’s trust, but I think with the help of little Nolan and Raven, they bring her back into the light of happiness and hope. River has his own secret, (no spoilers!) one that he thinks will make Charleigh think twice about him, but it just makes him a better MMC. River is big, protective, and dangerous, but not to those that mean something to him, and think because of this, Charleigh learns to love.

These two are by far one of the best couples I have experienced, I very much wish I could read this book again for the first time. Having kids in romance books is a fav of mine, Nolan was as sweet as could be, and the later getting that big surprise was a “Holy Moly” moment, seeing a few past characters from Redemption Hills was also so awesome, knowing that they have a connect to the new guys is kind of like a little spoiler. All I can say for this book is that I screamed, I cried, I cursed, I smiled and I ended it happier than when I started it, thank you to Ms. Author for the experience.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sarah

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A.L. Jackson is the New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance. She writes emotional, sexy, heart-filled stories about boys who usually like to be a little bit bad.

If she’s not writing, you can find her hanging out by the pool with her family, sipping cocktails with her friends, or of course with her nose buried in a book.

Website: www.aljacksonauthor.com

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Cold Spite (Cold Justice: Most Wanted 5) by Toni Anderson-review

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Sandy

Cold Spite (Cold Justice: Most Wanted 5) by Toni Anderson-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 14, 2024

When FBI Agent Delilah Quinn survives an attempt on her life, she pretends to be dead in order to outwit her attacker. There is only one person she can turn to for help—a man she never wanted to see again…a man who abandoned her five years ago and left her heartbroken. A man definitely on the killer’s hit list.

FBI Hostage Rescue Operator Cas Demarco lives with the burning regret of choosing to join HRT and leaving Delilah behind. News of her death devastates him. Then she calls him out of the blue and he can’t help but seize this one last chance to make things right.

With both Delilah and Cas targeted for death, a task force is set up to catch their would-be killer, who they believe is a disgraced former Navy SEAL they helped convict of drug trafficking. Out of prison and on a ruthless quest for retribution, the former SEAL is eliminating everyone who wronged him—without leaving a shred of evidence behind.

Can Delilah and Cas prove who’s responsible for the attempts on their lives and have a second chance at a future together? Or will the rogue ex-SEAL double-down on his promise to destroy them both?

••••

REVIEW: COLD SPITE is the fifth instalment in Toni Anderson’s contemporary adult COLD JUSTICE: MOST WANTED erotic, romantic suspense series, a spin off set in the author’s COLD JUSTICE series. This is FBI Agent Delilah Quinn, and thirty-four year old, FBI Hostage Rescue Operator Cas Demarco’s story line. COLD SPITE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Delilah and Cas COLD SPITE follows the second chance relationship between our story line couple. Approximately five years earlier, Agents Delilah Quinn and Cas Demarco went in undercover as a couple with the Mexican but a dirty agent threatened the investigation, and in doing so, targeted Delilah in the process. With the mission complete, Delilah and Cas returned home to have Cas push aside the woman with whom he had fallen in love. Fast forward to present day, Delilah believes she is being targeted by the same agent who threatened their investigation, and the only man she trusts is the man who broke her heart. Enter FBI Hostage Rescue Operator Cas Demarco. A killer is amassing a body count of people involved in the operation five years earlier, targeting family friends and direct encounters including threatening the lives of our story line couple. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Cas and Delilah, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes to a close.

The world building is detailed as the number of victims grows; the threats against Delilah becomes more personal, and the possibility of more than one betrayer working for the FBI.

The relationship between Cas and Delilah is one of second chances. Delilah fell in love with Cas Demarco while on assignment five years earlier but Cas pushed Delilah out of his life, choosing to enhance his career without Delilah by his side. Broken and having lost more than her heart, Delilah never want to rekindle her relationship with our story line hero but the only man she trusted is the man who broke her heart. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, charismatic and familiar secondary and supporting characters crossing over from the previous story lines in the Cold Justice: Most Wanted series, as well as several characters and agents from the author’s original Cold Justice series, and Cold Justice: Negotiators.

COLD SPITE : MOST WANTED is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, heart break and forgiveness, power and control. The premise is dramatic, intense and intriguing; the romance is impassioned ; the characters are struggling, determined, dynamic and desperate.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Cold Silence
Cold Deceit
Cold Snap
Cold Fury

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Toni Anderson is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, RITA® finalist, science nerd, professional tourist, dog lover, gardener, mom. Originally from a small town in England, Toni studied Marine Biology at University of Liverpool (B.Sc.) and University of St. Andrews (Ph.D.) with the intention she’d never be far from the ocean. Well, that plan backfired and she ended up in the Canadian prairies with her biology professor husband, two kids, a rescue dog, and a laid-back leopard gecko.

Toni started writing while pregnant with her first child and never stopped. Her greatest achievements are mastering the Tokyo subway, climbing Ben Lomond, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, and surviving fourteen Winnipeg winters (fingers crossed). She loves to travel for research purposes and was lucky enough to visit the Strategic Information and Operations Center inside FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. in 2016, and she also got to shove another car off the road during pursuit training at the Writer’s Police Academy in Wisconsin. Watch out world!

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BOUND BY A PROMISE (Brutal Vows 3) by Aleatha Romig-review tour

Posted on October 14, 2024 by Sandy

❤️BOUND BY A PROMISE (Brutal Vows 3) by Aleatha Romig-review tour❤️

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 14, 2024

Arranged-marriage, age-gap, Mafia/cartel romance, forbidden

Due to my birth order as child of the capo of the Luciano famiglia, I’m used to second place.
Second son.
Second in standing.
Never number one.
It’s the way my life has always been.
Only in the dark alleys, private clubs, and seedy establishments am I respected. Not just as the consigliere to my brother, the new capo of the Kansas City Famiglia, but also for my unmatched skills with a knife and my particular skills of interrogation. This status is as high as I will achieve. First place will forever be out of reach.

Camila Ruiz is the youngest daughter of Andres Ruiz, a top lieutenant in the Roríguez cartel. From the first moment I laid eyes on her, I knew I wanted her. She is too young and fragile to be with a man like me, a killer and criminal. I don’t deserve a woman like Camila. Taking her would be to ruin her.

With the newly established alliance between the Luciano famiglia and Roríguez cartel, I ask for the impossible and promise my life. With the blessing of my capo and the Roríguez drug lord, Camila is to be mine.

For once, I will be first in another’s eyes. And Camila will always be first to me.

What happens when the fragile alliance is tested?
Can I keep my promise to my wife and my oath to the famiglia?

••••

REVIEW: BOUND BY A PROMISE is the third instalment in Aleatha Romig’s contemporary, adult BRUTAL VOWS erotic,Mafia romance series. This is thirty-three year old, consigliere to the head of the Kansas City Famiglia Dante Luciano, and twenty-year old, cartel princess Camila Ruiz story line. BOUND BY A PROMISE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Some of the events of BOUND BY A PROMISE run parallel to, and cross over with books one and two.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Camila and Dante) BOUND BY A PROMISE follows the forbidden relationship between our story line couple. Dante and Camila met approximately one year earlier at the marriage of their siblings Catalina and Dario. Fast forward to present day, an attack against the Ruiz compound finds Camila, along with her mother safely ensconced at the Luciano home where Camila and Dante would act upon their mutual attraction but Camila will quickly discover that her parents have plans for her future, plans that do not include our story line hero. A quick wedding ceremony, and an attack by an unknown enemy finds Camila wondering if she brought a war to the Luciano’s door. As the two families come together to ferret out the truth, Camila finds herself falling for the man who has stolen her heart.

The world building focuses on a possible war between the Mafia, warring cartels, and the Russian Bratva. A fight for power brings danger to the Luciano/Ruiz families, families that are now connected by uniting three powerful couples.

The relationship between Dante and Camila is one of the forbidden. Everyone believes Camila is too young for our story line hero, yet Camila knows Dante is the man who has stolen her heart. Dante is an impassioned lover, a man who is desperate to protect the woman he loves. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of charismatic and energetic secondary and supporting characters, many of whom we met in the previous story lines as both Camila and Dante’s siblings have married one another.We are reintroduced to Camila’s parents Andres and Valentina Ruiz, as well as several members of the Ruiz/ Roriquez cartels.

BOUND BY A PROMISE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, influence and potential, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is thought provoking, and character driven but not as dark or raw as some other Mafia stories.; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are determined, spirited and moving.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Now and Forever
Til Death Do Us Part

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Haven’t started the series? Book one NOW AND FOREVER is currently FREE

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Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis. Aleatha has raised three children with her high school sweetheart and husband of over thirty years. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time a with her family and friends. Her other pastimes include reading and creating heroes/anti-heroes who haunt your dreams and bring your imagination to life!

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than half a million e-readers. Aleatha released the first of her series TALES FROM THE DARK SIDE, INSIDIOUS, in the fall of 2014. These stand alone thrillers continue Aleatha’s twisted style with an increase in heat.

In the fall of 2015, Aleatha moved head first into the world of dark romantic suspense with the release of BETRAYAL, the first of her five novel INFIDELITY series that has taken the reading world by storm. She also began her traditional publishing career with Thomas and Mercer. Her books INTO THE LIGHT and AWAY FROM THE DARK were published through this mystery/thriller publisher in 2016.

In the spring of 2017, Aleatha released her first stand-alone, fun, and sexy romantic comedy with PLUS ONE, followed by the sweet stand-alone, ONE NIGHT.

Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and PEN America. She is represented by Kevan Lyon of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

And if you’re new to ALEATHA, check out her FREE books.

A Christmas Duet by Debbie Macomber – a Review

Posted on October 14, 2024 by Barb

A Christmas Duet by Debbie Macomber – a Review

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Description:
Halley Morgan’s life has always revolved around music. She once had big dreams of becoming a professional songwriter, but the reality of life has led her to working as an assistant high school band teacher in Portland. As the holidays approach, Hailey dreads the annual tradition of spending Christmas with her family and dodging her mother’s meddling questions about her love life.

When Halley’s close friend offers her the use of her family’s empty cabin for a rejuvenating solo holiday retreat, Halley finally decides to do something to make herself happy. However, her arrival in the small town of Podunk, Oregon, is anything but peaceful when she discovers the cabin has been invaded by several wild animals. Luckily, Jay, the son of the town’s main store proprietor—and an incredibly handsome and charming former musician to boot—is more than willing to help.

Soon Halley and Jay are nearly inseparable, chopping down and decorating a Christmas tree, sipping hot cocoa in front of a cozy fire, and best of all, playing music together. Jay’s positive feedback and encouragement inspire Halley to believe she might succeed as a songwriter after all. But even in her snow-dusted oasis, family holiday drama still finds Hailey, interrupting and threatening her newfound peace and confidence. Meanwhile revelations from Jay present complications of their own. Suddenly her Christmas paradise has become a winter storm and Hailey must weather through the challenges to stand up for herself and embrace the holiday spirit.

Review:

A Christmas Duet by Debbie Macomber is a sweet wonderful heartwarming Christmas holiday story. We meet Halley Morgan, who has always dreamed of becoming a professional song writer, but she currently is an assistant high school band teacher in Portland. Halley isn’t happy to join her family on Christmas, since her mother keeps pushing Halley’s ex-boyfriend to attend Christmas. Her BFF, Katherine are both happy for the holiday break, and when Halley talks about her ex planning to come to their house, she is desperate. Katherine suggests to her to use the family cabin in the small town of Podunk; enabling her to concentrate on creating her music. Halley decides to take up Katherine offer and escape having to go to her family’s Christmas celebration, with her ex planning to attend.

When Halley arrives at the cabin, she senses the feel of her journey in creating her music; but she also discovers some animals that seem to visit the cabin. When shopping at the town’s main store, the owner sends her son, Jay to help rid the animals; and Halley finds him to be charming and handsome, not to mention he too is a former musician. Both Halley & Jay play the guitar and are very passionate about creating music; though she loves writing songs, he is currently working on building his own company. In a short time, both begin to feel sparks between them, with lots of delightful banter and their love of music. Jay gives Halley encouragement inspiring her that she can be a successful songwriter, especially when she sang her song at the bar/restaurant, which became so popular, with videos opening up a possible career. Halley and Jay become inseparable, spending fun time together as well as playing music together.

I will say, I really did not like Halley’s mother, who was obsessive and determined to bring the ex-back into the picture. When the video of her song escalated, her parents found out where she was staying, comes to visit; of course, the mother lets the ex-know. It will take Halley to tell the ex she does not want anything to do with him; especially since she finds herself caring about Jay. I really loved Hailey and Jay together. I liked Halley’s sister, Daisy, who had who came earlier, concerned about her own boyfriend being serious.

A Christmas Duet was a heartwarming, charming, sweet, cozy romantic story filled with music and love. It was really nice to see both sisters have their own HEA. A Christmas Duet was so very well written by Debbie Macomber. I suggest you read A Christmas Duet, as you can n ever go wrong with anything by Debbie Macomber.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

SPARK OF REDEMPTION / SPARK OF PASSION by Kathleen Kelly-reviews

Posted on October 13, 2024 by Sandy

SPARK OF REDEMPTION / SPARK OF PASSION (MacKenny Brothers /MC 6 & 7) by Kathleen Kelly-reviews

SPARK OF REDEMPTION
MacKenny Brothers / MC 6
by Kathleen Kelly
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic,romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 15 2021

The MacKenny family has six brothers, of which I’m the youngest.

They are all honest men, but I’m not.I lie, I cheat, and I’ll do anything to get what I want.My life got complicated the day my girlfriend walked in on me with another woman. It meant nothing, but to Annette, it was the ultimate betrayal. Annette should have called before her surprise visit, but I suppose her grandmother dying was why she didn’t.

I don’t deserve a second chance, but the universe conspires to give me one.What would you do if the woman you loved lost her memory and didn’t remember what a bastard you are but instead went back to a time when you were in love? Would you go along with it? Would you do anything to keep her in the dark?

I’m not wasting the time we have together. My brothers can go to hell, this is my redemption, and I’ll do whatever is necessary to keep Annette and prove I can be the man she needs me to be.

••••••

REVIEW: SPARK OF REDEMPTION is the sixth instalment in Kathleen Kelly’s contemporary, adult MACKENNY BROTHERS/ MC erotic, romance series focusing on the McKenny brothers. This is young brother Lochlan MacKenny, and Annette’s story line. SPARK OF REDEMPTION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.

Told from several first person perspectives (Lochlan, Kyle, Sean, Annette) SPARK OF REDEMPTION follows in the aftermath of Annette discovering the man whom she loved in bed with someone else. Annette and Lochlan have been in a relationship for as long as she can remember and hoping to surprise him, Annette heads to Boston where Lochlan is working on a business proposal with New England Warriors former QB Grayson Moore. Betrayal is swift; then her grandmother dies, and Annette struggles with her place in the MacKenny fold. Moving to New York to start anew working for the owner of a successful string of yoga studios, Annette will have to face her demons when Lochlan announces the family intends to buy the business for which Annette currently works. An accident will pull Annette back into Lochlan’s life, an accident of which Annette no longer remembers what happened. With Lochlan by her side, Annette begins her recovery but life has other plans for our story line couple.

The world building focuses on betrayal, growing up, responsibility and love. As Lochlan struggles to make amends for the past, Annette struggles to heal in the face of both physical and emotional pain.

The relationship between Lochlan and Annette is one of second chances. Lochlan broke Annette’s heart, and her trust, and in this, our hero is determined to make amends for the sins of his past. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters include most of the previous story line couples, and all of the MacKenny brothers. We are introduced to New England Warriors former QB Grayson Moore; nurse and physiotherapist Simon; Yoga studio owner Derek Strauss, and New England Warriors team owner Tyson Reed.

SPARK OF REDEMPTION is a story of betrayal and mistrust; secrets and lies; family and friendships; forgiveness, love and loss. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is seductive ; the characters are charismatic and determined. SPARK OF REDEMPTION ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

————–

SPARK OF PASSION
MacKenny Brothers / MC 7
by Kathleen Kelly
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic,romance

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Release Date: September 30, 2024

ABOUT THE BOOK: It’s been five years since I left home and nearly six since Lochlan passed away.

New York isn’t the place I envision for my son. I want Beathan to experience the same joyful childhood I had—surrounded by family and be free to run and play without fear. So, returning to my hometown will give Beathan the life I’ve always dreamed of providing him.

For five years, I lived in New York with billionaire Tyson Reed. Our relationship has remained strictly platonic, though my heart longs for more. Tyson has been a father figure to Beathan and the man I fall for more deeply with each passing day.

But life takes a dark turn when Beathan is kidnapped.
The captors believe he is Tyson’s son.

Now, the MacKenny family and Tyson must unite to bring Beathan home.

Cutter, the ruthless enforcer for the Loyal Rebels, must confront his inner demons while vying for a permanent place within the MacKenny brothers’ inner circle. His deadly resolve is tested as he struggles to rescue the boy and do as his MC president commands.

It is a desperate race against time, not only to save my son but to ignite the spark of passion between Tyson and me that has been smoldering for so long.

•••••••

REVIEW:SPARK OF PASSION is the seventh instalment in Kathleen Kelly’s contemporary, adult MACKENNY BROTHERS / MC romance series focusing on the MacKenny clan and the Loyal Rebels MC. This is New England Warriors football team owner Tyson Reed, and Annette’s story line. SPARK OF PASSION can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading book six SPARK OF REDEMPTION for back story and cohesion where Annette’s story begins.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

SPOILER WARNING: If you have not read SPARK OF REDEMPTION there may be spoilers in my review although the book blurb is quite revealing.

Told from six first person perspectives including Tyson and Annette SPARK OF PASSION follows the return of Annette to her home town of Becca Falls, and to the extended family she left behind. Approximately six years earlier Annette lost the love of her life, and in the ensuing aftermath, discovered she was pregnant. Moving back to New York to forget about the past, Annette and her son will take refuge with a close family friend, billionaire Tyson Reed. Fast forward to present day, Annette believes it is time to return home, home to the family she has never forgotten but life is about to become more complicated when her son Beathan is kidnapped, believing he is the son of Tyson Reed. As the MacKenny family members and the Loyal Rebels MC begins a search for the missing child, Tyson must come to terms with a perceived betrayal from within.

The world building follows several paths including Annette’s move to Becca Falls; her relationship and building love for Tyson Reed; the kidnapping of a five year old child; the fall-out of betrayal and greed.

The relationship between Annette and Tyson begins as friendship but we are oblivious to the six years between book six and seven. Tyson and Annette never crossed the line throughout the years but the palpable sexual attraction and love continued to grow. Annette’s return to Becca Falls forces Tyson to make a decision about his future, a future that involves our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

There is another large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Sean, Logan, Kyle, and Cutter, and Cutter’s new girlfriend Elaine, a relationship questioned by the MacKenny Clan. And Logan is struggling to find his place in the family.

SPARK OF PASSION is a story of betrayal and greed, obsession and madness, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is intriguing and suspenseful; the romance is limited; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Kathleen Kelly is a USA Today Best Selling Author and was born in Penrith, NSW, Australia. When she was four her family moved to Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Although born in NSW she considers herself a QUEENSLANDER!!
She married her childhood sweetheart and they live in Toowoomba. Kathleen enjoys writing contemporary, romance novels with a little bit of steam. She draws her inspiration from family, friends and the people around her. She can often be found in cafes writing and observing the locals.

THE BASTARD KING (The Bastard Duology 1) by Donna Grant

Posted on October 13, 2024 by Sandy

THE BASTARD KING (The Bastard Duology 1: The Dragon Kings) by Donna Grant

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 14, 2024

With just one fiery embrace I could destroy her…or love her until the end of time.

I am fire and death. My very presence brings terror and panic. For most, I am the last thing they will ever see. For there is only one thing I live for — freeing my kin.

Every action, every battle brings me a step closer. Nothing distracts me from my purpose.

Until she crosses my path.

Brave and fearless, she holds me utterly enthralled. I have to know her. Her past and her future. But especially the secrets she keeps closely guarded.

One taste of her lips, and I’m caught. Trapped. Seized. The more I’m with her, the harder it is to leave. But I have sworn allegiance to another who promises to free the dragons.

Her or my kin. It was once an easy choice.

Before my heart got involved.

••••

REVIEW: THE BASTARD KING is the first instalment in Donna Grant’s adult THE BASTARD DUOLOGY paranormal, romance duet, set in the author’s THE DRAGON KINGS series. This is dragon shifter Derek and Kora’s story line. The BASTARD KING should not be read as a stand alone. I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise including the search for a missing King, and the history as to how the dragons came to live in Zora.

SOME BACKGROUND: For tens of thousands of years the Dragons have lived and ruled on Earth but a war between the dragons and humans forced the Dragon Kings to send the other dragons through a portal into an unknown world. Fast forward to present day, the portal has been revealed, and the Dragon Kings have been reunited in Zora, with their family and kin, but a new war is on the horizon between the Dragons, the Divine, the people of Stonemore, and a woman known as Villette

Told from omniscient third person perspectives including Derek and Kora THE BASTARD KING follows Kora as she searches for the woman known as Villette, hidden behind the stronghold called Stonemore but along the way Kora is killed not once, but twice, and each time she believes she has been rescued by a man name Derek. As Derek aids Kora on her quest to find Villette, little does Kora know that Derek knows, and is more, than she could have ever imagined. Kora has her own secrets that she fears will send Derek into places unknown but Derek’s secrets are a threat to our heroine, a threat that grows stronger as Derek and Kora find themselves falling for one another on their journey to take down Villette.

The world building now focuses on the hunt for Villette: a need for avenge the past; and Derek’s discovery that he is not alone on his trek to free the dragon but Derek has been naïve to presume he is alone in the world, taking orders from a woman who plans to destroy them all.

The relationship between Kora and Dederick aka Derek begins as friends but neither one trust the other; both have secrets that could end their lives but Derek’s attraction to Kora cannot be explained by simple attraction. As the couple enters Stonemore, secrets and lies threaten their existence, betrayal comes at every turn. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters are numerous-most are questionable and often threatening and dangerous. A missing Dragon King is discovered, Villette and her sister Miena reveal their plans for the dragons.

THE BASTARD KING is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, magic and murder, mistrust and betrayal, vengeance and madness. The premise is detailed and complex; the romance is passionate but struggles in the face of secrets and lies; the characters are desperate and determined. THE BASTARD KING ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Prequel-Ignite the Magic
Dragon Revealed
Dragon Mine
Dragon Unbound
Dragon Eternal
Dragon Lover
Frost Dragon
Dragon Kiss
Dragon Born

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Riley / Mitch (Jasper Springs 5 & 6) by Eve Riley -reviews

Posted on October 12, 2024 by Sandy

Riley / Mitch (Jasper Springs 5 & 6) by Eve Riley -reviews

RILEY
(Jasper Spring 5)
by Eve Riley
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, LGBTQ+, MM, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2024

Secrets. High expectations. A truth revealed.

Riley Evans is counting down the days to his brother’s wedding.If only he could find a date for the big day.

When a chance meeting during karaoke night finds Riley’s plus one up for wager, Riley finds himself the winner in more ways than one.

Too bad his love game isn’t as strong as his pool game.

A self-made OnlyFans man, Eric Olsen has built his entire life being the man everyone desires. Being Riley’s date to the hottest wedding in Jasper Springs should be an easy win, but Eric soon finds himself desiring the sweet-as-pie art teacher.If only he could come clean about his life and his feelings.

Will Riley break free from the chains of expectation? Or will Eric embrace his truth at the expense of losing the man he wants most?

••••••

REVIEW: RILEY is the fifth instalment in Eve Riley’s contemporary, adult JASPER SPRINGS erotic, LGBTQ+, MM romance series. This is thirty-eight year old, high school art teacher Riley Evans, and twenty-eight year old OnlyFans star Eric Olsen’s story line. RILEY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: RILEY is an LGBTQ+ story line with same sex situations.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Riley and Eric) RILEY follows the building romance and relationship between Riley and Eric. A no show blind date finds Eric Olsen hanging out with friends where he will be introduced to high school art teacher Riley Evans. Eric, an OnlyFans social media star is struggling in his private life but knows anyone he meets could take issue with what he does for a living. Riley Evans never expected to fall for someone like Eric Olsen but Eric is keeping a secrets, and Riley is about to discover that his own personal life may not be a private as he had hoped.

The world building focuses on Eric’s life as an OnlyFans social media star but a man who is battling between head and heart, hoping for a future with Riley Evans. As a teacher, any semblance of impropriety could mean the end of Riley’s career, but Riley’s needs a plus one for his brother’s wedding, and Eric’s secrets could destroy both their friendship and any thoughts of a future.

The relationship between Eric and Riley begins as friends but quickly turns into something more. There is a mutual sexual attraction that will pull the couple together in a proclamation of love. The $ex scenes are provocative and passionate.

Several of the previous story line couples return as secondary and supporting characters . We are introduced to Eric’s friend Julie, and Riley’s brother Aaron.

RILEY is a story of secrets and lies, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is entertaining and captivating; the characters are charismatic ; the romance is impassioned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book four GRAYSON

——-

MITCH
(Jasper Springs 6)
by Eve Riley
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, LGBTQ+, MM, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 7, 2024

A perpetual bachelor.
A sweet, tempting baker.
A chance to heal a wounded heart.

Mitchell DeVille knows a piece of art when he sees it. After all, he’s the hottest photographer in Jasper Springs. When Mitch discovers a fresh face at the wedding of the season, he can’t turn away. And when his Pretty Boy muse offers him the chance to work together, he can’t refuse.

Mitch soon discovers that the object of his desires is struggling with his newfound attraction, and he knows he shouldn’t play with fire.

Penn Baker dreams of finding the perfect… someone. With a string of ex-girlfriends and one-night stands, he isn’t sure there is anyone out there for a shy golden boy like him. Until he discovers a sexy, confident, photographer, that is.

As unusual feelings and desires rise in Penn, he finds himself falling fast for the charm of the man behind the camera.

Can Mitch be honest with himself about what he wants?Or will his high-built walls keep out more than just his fear of rejection?

••••

REVIEW: MITCH is the sixth instalment in Eve Riley’s contemporary, adult JASPER SPRINGS erotic, LGBTQ+, MM romance series. This is twenty-three year old, baker Penn Baker, and professional photographer Mitchell De Ville’s storyline. MITCH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: MITCH is an LGBTQ+ story line with same sex scenarios.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Mitch and Penn) MITCH follows the building relationship between Mitchell DeVille and Penn Baker. Penn Baker works for his family’s bakery, and never expected to find himself attracted to the wedding photographer Mitchell DeVille. Penn Baker had always been attracted to women, and in this , his sexual awakening was scaring him to death. Mitchell DeVille knew he wanted Penn Baker but Penn’s inexperience may be a hurdle they both struggle to jump.

The world building focuses on the building romance and relationship between our story couple. Hired to take pictures for Penn’s Bakery online presence, Mitch, in an effort to get closer to Penn Baker, offers to help Penn with each successive event, eventually seducing the man with whom he is falling in love. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.

Once again, most of the previous story line couples return as secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to Penn’s parents, as well as his former girlfriend Amy.

MITCH is a story of friendships and acceptance, discovery and love. The premise is lively and charming; the romance is fated and provocative; the characters are spirited yet caring.

Copies supplied for review

Reviews by Sandy

Just Winging It (For Puck’s Sake 9) by Crea Reitan -review tour

Posted on October 12, 2024 by Sandy

💚🏒Just Winging It (For Puck’s Sake Book 9) by Crea Reitan -review tour💚🏒

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2024

One weekend can change everything.

Caulder

I’ve lived a very quiet life, keeping my deepest secrets close to my chest. I let no one in; not even my closest friends. When I’m invited to participate in the All-Star Games, I’m suddenly forced to share a hotel room, and a single bed, with a stranger. My carefully guarded world starts to come undone when he kisses me, and I can’t get enough.

Now one person shares my secret. It’s a relief, really. But just as I’m starting to fall for Lo Duvall, my world implodes. A woman in Philly claims that we hooked up in a club and she’s carrying my baby. Are we over before we can even begin?

Anonymous hookups when I’m on the road are how I manage to keep my personal life private. All I want is to play hockey and keep everything else out of the media. That gets more complicated when I meet the gorgeous Caulder Haines.

Three nights of unfiltered fuckery—that’s what we promise each other. Then we’ll go our separate ways. But by the end of the weekend, I haven’t had enough of this amazing defenseman, and don’t want to say goodbye.

I’ve fallen in love with him.

When an aspiring content creator decides to throw a wrench in my very carefully crafted plans, I know I have to do something to save what I’ve only just realized I want.

I can’t lose Caulder. I just found him. But what can I do to keep him?!

This is a LGBTQIA+ story with content not intended for those under 18 years of age due to graphic scenes and situations.

•••••••

REVIEW: Another amazing story in this great series. Crea has created a world I want to live in. Her stories come alive and stay with you long after you read the last page.

Caulder Haines has been in previous books in this series, so I was excited to see where we would go in this story.

One bed, two strangers. Has the recipe for disaster or a delicious night or two of fun.

What with Caulder being a secret gay man (he’s not ashamed, but hockey is first and foremost, life will come after he retires) and Laurent “Lo” also being gay (his hook ups are very controlled) they don’t want anyone to find out and then it becomes a media circus.

A weekend of fun, that was all it was suppose to be. To be able to be themselves. But as the weekend ends, both know it was way more than that! But how can they be together, when they live so far apart? And neither have said they are gay, so that’s something that would need to be said (and both are adamant that their gender preferences would remain quiet until they retired!)

I loved the hockey banter/the contest and catching up with some many previous characters (most have their own books) I also really liked how Lo never made Caulder feel uncomfortable, nor did he ever pressurise him into doing something he wasn’t comfortable with. I cheered as a hockey game was played (been a while since we had a game in the books) and could feel the cold on my cheeks (I do love a descriptive scene) 😊

The spanner in the works happens around (65% into the book)

And it throws both Caulder and Lo into a tailspin! And there is a reason why I don’t believe it was Caulder (but it’s not my secret to tell 🤐)

But how will Caulder explain himself? How will Lo respond to his boyfriend being the father of a baby? I can tell you this, I’d love to have Lo in my corner. He’s so supportive, caring and downright hot (his possessive tone gave me shivers 😜)

This one ranks as possibly my 2nd/3rd favourite in the series. And I absolutely loved it.

Can’t wait for the next book 👍🏻

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Shiver
Starting Line
Lucky Shot
The Crease
Wingman Score
Coach Stare Down
Stick Lessons
The Defending Goal

Copy supplied for review

🦋 Reviewed by Julie B

Crea lives in upstate New York with her dog and husband. She has been writing since grade school, when her second grade teacher had her class keep writing journals. She has a habit of creating secondary, and often time tertiary, characters that take over her stories. All of her RH relationships end up being heavily polyamorous – meaning it’s not just all the men for one woman. There’s also some M/M action going on. When she can’t fall asleep at night, she thinks up new scenes for her characters to act out. This, of course, is how most of her meant-to-be-thrown-away characters tend to end up front and center – and utterly swoon-worthy! Don’t ask her how many book boyfriends she has…

When not writing, Crea is an avid reader. Her TBR pile is several hundred books high (don’t even look at her kindle wish list or the unread books on her tablet). Sometimes, she enjoys crafting; sometimes, exploring nature; sometimes, traveling. Mostly, she enjoys putting her characters on paper and breathing life into them. Oh, and sleeping. Crea loves to sleep!

Author Links:

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