Trust in Me by J.Lynn – Cover Reveal and Giveaway

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Sandy

Trust in Me by J.Lynn-Cover Reveal and Giveaway

TRUST IN ME cover[3]

PRE ORDER:
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Trust In Me (Novella)
Series: Wait For You
by J.Lynn
Release Date: October 22, 2013

It’s Wait for You as you’ve never seen it. Trust in Me lets you in on
Cam’s side of the #1 New York Times Bestselling story.

Cameron Hamilton is used to getting what he wants, especially when it
comes to women. But when Avery Morgansten comes crashing into his life –
literally – he finally meets the one person who can resist his soulful
baby blues. But Cam’s not ready to give up. He can’t get the feisty and
intriguing girl out of his head.

Avery has secrets, secrets that keep her from admitting the feelings Cam
knows she has for him. Will persistence (and some delicious homemade
cookies) help him break down her barriers and gain her trust? Or will he
be shut out of Avery’s life, losing his first real shot at the kind of
love that lasts forever?

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Hotshot by Julie Garwood – a Review

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Barb

Hotshot by Julie Garwood – a Review

hotshot
Links to order Hotshot: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
Peyton Lockhart and her sisters have inherited Bishop’s Cove, a small, luxurious oceanfront resort, but it comes with a condition: The girls must run the resort for one year and show a profit—only then will they own it.

A graduate of a prestigious French culinary school, Peyton has just lost her job as a food critic. Out of work and in a bad place personally, a year doing something completely different sounds wonderful.

There are countless challenges and too many people who want to stop the sisters from succeeding. Among them are Peyton’s contentious cousins, who are outraged that they didn’t inherit the resort, as well as a powerful group of land developers who have been eyeing the coveted beachfront property.

It’s soon apparent to Peyton that their efforts are being sabotaged, but she refuses to let the threats scare her—until she’s nearly killed. She calls on her childhood friend and protector, Finn MacBain, now with the FBI, and asks for his help. He saved her life once; he can do it again.

Review:

Hotshot by Julie Garwood is a romance thriller. This was an enjoyable read with a mix of romance, family relationships, mystery, danger and a wonderful couple. We meet our couple when they were very young; Finn our hero, was 14 years old when he saved Peyton, only 6 at the time, from drowning in her family’s swimming pool, during a party.

Peyton always had a crush on Finn, following his Olympic swimming career, as she grew up. Finn though never really paid attention to Peyton. The story picks up years later, as Peyton, who having graduated from college & having spent time learning to specialize in cooking under a culinary chef, heads for Minnesota to work for a cooking magazine. Her dream job turns into a nightmare, as she is sexually harassed by her boss. Refusing to leave her alone, she finally decides to take matters into her own hands.

Finding out that her boss had a bad temper, and was becoming aggressively dangerous, Peyton leaves and goes back home to Texas. While attending a wedding, Peyton meets Finn, and to his surprise, he sees this beautiful woman walking toward him, who proceeds to give him a kiss. Peyton realizes Finn does not recognize her, and calls him by her nickname for him, when they were young…Hotshot. Of course Finn is shocked that the scrawny child he saved, and who would follow him around, was now all grown up and a beautiful young lady.

Finn, who is now an FBI agent, notices Peyton’s car has bullet holes. She explains to him that when she left Minnesota, someone was following her. She proceeded to tell him the story, and Finn decides he needs to investigate and protect Peyton.

What follows is an exciting story, as Peyton’s life is possibly in danger, but she is determined to bring the truth out, so that she can save other women from this awful man. But Peyton’s sister and friends convince her to say nothing, and move on.

Then Peyton, and her sisters are offered a deal take over their Uncle’s oceanfront resort in Florida to fix it up, bring it back to it’s former luxurious state, and if they show a profit, it will be come theirs to own. Her sister Lucy is another one Garwood’s wonderful characters in this book. The scene shifts to Bishop’s Cove, an oceanfront resort, where the sisters will work to bring it back to its former glory, but betrayals, family jealousy will make it that much harder to succeed.

During all of this, the threat against Peyton is still real, and Finn is determined to protect her. What follows is a beautiful romance between two wonderful characters in Finn and Peyton. We know from the start that Peyton falls hard for Finn, but dedicated to his job, he refuses to allow himself to commit to anyone, though he doesn’t truly understand his strong feelings for Peyton. Their sexual chemistry was hot, but despite that, Finn wouldn’t let it sway him.

But when danger rears it head against Peyton, Finn returns and works out a plan with her to reveal the people sabotaging the resort, as well as working with the FBI to expose her former boss in Minnesota.

Hotshot was an exciting story filled with action from start to finish. In between the suspense, we have a wonderful story of the sisters working to rebuild the resort, and love is in the air for both of them. Will Finn open his eyes and his heart to Peyton? Will they find out who is sabotaging them in time to save the resort? Will Peyton be able to stop & expose the ex boss, before he comes after her? So many questions that will answered by the end. But the best part of Hotshot is the romance between Finn and Peyton. I do recommend this book to all who like romance, suspense and a fun exciting read.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Catching Up With Jennifer Estep-Interview and Giveaway

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Barb

Catching Up With Jennifer Estep

Jennifer Estep

The Reading Cafe is thrilled to welcome back Jennifer Estep. Jennifer is here today to discuss her two new releases, Midnight Frost & Heart of Venom. She will also tell us what she has in store for us in 2013/2014.

Let’s talk to Jennifer.

Interview TRC: Hi, Jennifer. Thank you for taking the time to visit us again at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your two new releases, as well as give us an update as to what else you have upcoming for us in 2013.

Jennifer: Thanks for hosting me again. I really appreciate it.

TRC: Midnight Frost is the 5^th book in your Mythos Academy series. This was released in late July. Can you please give us a brief description of the book?

Jennifer: Of course. Like the other books in the series, Midnight Frost focuses on Gwen Frost, a 17-year-old Gypsy girl who has the gift of psychometry, or the ability to know an object’s history just by touching it. After a serious freak-out with her magic, Gwen is shipped off to Mythos Academy, a school for the descendants of ancient warriors like Spartans, Valkyries, Amazons, and more.

In Midnight Frost, a friend of Gwen’s is poisoned, and she’s in a race against the clock and the bad-guy Reapers to try to find a cure in time to save her friend.

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TRC: With 5 books, and 3 novellas completed in Mythos Academy series, do you see an end to this storyline? If so how many books are you planning?

Jennifer: As of right now, there will be six books in the series. Killer Frost is the title of the sixth book.

TRC: Heart of Venom is the 9^th book in your Elemental Assassin series. Can you give a brief description of this book?

Jennifer: Of course. Like the other books in the series, Heart of Venom focuses on Gin Blanco, an assassin codenamed the Spider who can control the elements of Ice and Stone. When she’s not busy killing people and righting wrongs, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit in the fictional Southern metropolis of Ashland. The city is also home to giants, dwarves, vampires, and elementals – Air, Fire, Ice, and Stone.

In Heart of Venom, two of Gin’s friends are attacked, and one is kidnapped, so it’s up to Gin to track down the bad guys and rescue her friend.

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TRC: When you started this series, did you expect it to be this successful? How many books are you planning for this series?

Jennifer: I had no idea that the series would be as successful as it has been, and it’s been so wonderful to see folks respond to Gin and the other characters. I really, really appreciate all of the nice comments that I’ve gotten about the series. It always makes my day when I get a nice e-mail from someone telling me that they are enjoying my books.

As of right now, there will be at least ten books in the series. I am hoping to write more books in the series beyond that, but we’ll see what happens.

TRC: Being so busy with two series, have you had any thoughts of doing a different series?

Jennifer: I have ideas for a couple of different series that I would like to explore. But right now, I’m pretty busy writing my Elemental Assassin and Mythos Academy series. So we’ll see what happens. But I always have more ideas than I could ever find time to write.

TRC: Can you please tell us what else you have upcoming in 2013 or early 2014?

Jennifer: Spartan Frost, a Mythos Academy e-story, was released in June, and I have Parlor Tricks, an Elemental Assassin short story in the Carniepunk urban fantasy anthology that came out in July. Parlor Tricks is also available as a free e-download. Heart of Venom will be out on Aug. 27.

As of right now, The Spider, the tenth book in the Elemental Assassin series, will be released in late December 2013. Killer Frost, the sixth Mythos Academy book, is tentatively set to be released in March 2014.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Jennifer: Thanks again for hosting me on the blog. Also, folks can check out my website at www.jenniferestep.comfor excerpts, free short stories, and more information about my books. Facebook: Twitter: Goodreads:

TRC: Thank you, Jennifer for giving us an update on both your Mythos Academy and Elemental Assassin series. Good luck with Midnight Frost and Heart of Venom. We look forward to visiting us again in the future.

Jennifer: Thanks so much. Happy reading, everyone!

Giveaway white and rose

Jennifer has graciously offered to give one member of The Reading Café their choice of a signed copy of either Midnight Frost or Heart of Venom

1. Please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3. Giveaway open US only.

4. Contests runs from august August 14 to August 18, 2013

Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Sandy

Heart of Venom (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep-a dual review

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HEART OF VENOM (Elemental Assassin #9) by Jennifer Estep

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 27, 2013

The hotly anticipated ninth novel in the hugely popular Elemental Assassin series finds Gin Blanco on a dangerous mission to rescue a friend.

When a terror from the past threatens Gin’s friend and body-disposer, Sophia, Gin will stop at nothing to protect her, even if it means walking straight into a killer’s trap. Meanwhile, the rocky romance between Gin and Owen reaches a turning point—can they reunite and rekindle their love? Or will the things Gin has been forced to do in her line of work as the deadly assassin the Spider keep them apart forever? Assuming, that is, she survives long enough to find out…

••••••••••••

REVIEW by Sandy

HEART OF VENOM is the 9th installment in Jennifer Estep’s Urban Fantasy series the Elemental Assassin. Gin Blanco is the hired assassin known as The Spider. With her dual elements of Stone and Ice and, her ability to wield a knife, Gin is a threat to Ashland’s mobsters, vampires and assorted supernatural beings. But when those she calls family are threatened and hurt, Gin knows only one thing-get in, take down and get out. And that is exactly what Gin does best as long as she does not get caught in the act.

Heart of Venom is a storyline fraught with graphic violence and torture. Jennifer’s use of descriptive language will pull the reader into the scene where the senses will be assaulted at various levels. This storyline and series are not for the feint of heart.

Sophia and Jo Jo are the dwarf sisters who defend, heal and protect Gin as well as stand by her side in battle. But Heart of Venom belongs to the sisters as Sophia’s past catches up and Gin must attempt a rescue before Sophie is permanently taken from their lives. Like many of the previous installments, Gin will attempt the rescue on her own but there is always someone to watch her back. Sending everyone home is never a very good idea.

Jennifer Estep includes plenty of background information throughout Heart of Venom as it pertains to Sophia and Jo Jo’s first encounter with Gin’s mentor and friend Fletcher, as well as Sophia’s previous torture at the hands of a man who proclaims to want Sophia as his own. Some of the history between Gin and the sisters is revealed and by doing so reads as a prelude to the next installment in the series-The Spider-the prequel storyline in The Elemental Assassin series.

For those who have been following the series, there have been some issues with Gin and her relationship with her (ex) lover, friend and mate Owen. Heart of Venom will see a resolution to their relationship troubles (good or bad) that have been mounting throughout the series and reached impossible odds in book #7 Widow’s Web. My only regret is that there wasn’t more revelation details and development behind Owen’s decision-OH, but wait-Jennifer has released a novella Kiss of Venom -Owen’s POV and guess what-yes, the reader is taken on Owen’s journey of reflection and regret.

Jennifer Estep brings together Gin’s family of elementals and human, vampires, dwarves and giants. Fans will recognize many of the previous storyline characters and will be re-introduced to a familiar name that will bring more problems in the books to follow. I suspect the next arc in the series will begin in book #11.

Heart of Venom is a fast paced storyline of danger, intrigue, death and destruction and, a little sex. Jennifer pushes the momentum forward: there is never any time to rest for the reader or The Assassin because when you do, you will be caught in a web-not of your own making. The storyline flows smoothly; there are never any rough spots and the back history and story blends fluidly throughout the novel.

Copy supplied by Edelweiss

••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW by Barb

Heart of Venom is the 9th book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. Rather then duplicate the storyline, which Sandy has done so well, I will discuss my highlights of this book.

I really enjoy this series, as Jennifer Estep continually keeps us on our toes with exciting, action packed thrilling adventures. But most of all, Gin, as the assassin Spider, is one of my top kick ass heroines. What I also love about Gin is how she will do anything, including offer her life to save those she considers her family. Heart of Venom was Gin at her best, determined to save Sophia from a powerful enemy of her past. Estep does a fantastic job of refreshing your memory of what has happened previously, as well as allowing us to learn what happened to Sophia all those years ago, when Fletcher saved her.

With her emotions running rampant, Gin pulls everything she has to fight two very strong fire elementals, with the help of her ex-lover Owen, and some others from her close knit group. Sandy is right when she says this is a violent bloody battle all the way, as Gin acts out on her need for vengeance & to save Sophia. Throughout the battle, and there are two major ones, Gin does not come out of this unscathed, but our heroine is a survivor.

Jennifer Estep has a wonderful secondary cast of recurring characters that you care about…Owen, Finn, Bria, Sophia, JoJo; just to name a few. She also creates great villains, like the departed Mab, or in this book, Harley and Hazel were horrible people, but super villains.

In between all the action in this book, it was nice to see Gin and Owen work together and try to mend their relationship. There was a hot steamy scene between them that made all the waiting worth it. I must add that I would like to attend one of Gin’s gatherings where she cooks such awesome food.

Heart of Venom is non-stop action from start to finish. Another wonderful reason to enjoy this series is the different elemental powers that are amazing to watch. Heart of Venom is another wonderful book in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series, and Gin Blanco, the Spider is a great heroine to follow.

Copy supplied by Edelweiss.

ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series by Jennifer Estep reading order. Please note that most of the short stories can be read for FREE or found in other anthologies. The novellas are not stand alones but incremental to the series.

Elemental Assassin Series

0.5 Spider’s Bargain
1 Spider’s Bite
1.5 Web of Death
2 Web of Lies
2.5 Web of Deceit
2.6 Poison
2.7 Wasted
3 Venom
3.5 Tangled Dreams
3.7 Tangled Schemes
4 Tangled Threads
4.5 Spider’s Nemesis
5 Spider’s Revenge
5.5 Thread of Death
6 By A Thread
7 Widow’s Web
8 Deadly Sting
8.1 Parlor Tricks
8.5 Kiss of Venom
9 Heart of Venom
10 The Spider (Dec 2013)

Kiss of Venom (Elemental Assassin 8.5) by Jennifer Estep-a review

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Sandy

KISS OF VENOM (Elemental Assassin 8.5) by Jennifer Estep-a review

Kiss of Venom

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date: July 22, 2013

The New York Times bestselling Elemental Assassin series continues with a new e-novella—from the hero’s point of view! Owen Grayson is bound and determined to get Gin back…if her enemies don’t get her first.When you have a history of dating an assassin, a night out on the town can turn deadly—fast. Owen Grayson is still wracked with guilt over the end of his love affair with Gin Blanco, and there aren’t enough gin and tonics in all of Ashland to ease his heartache. But when Gin happens to show up at the same nightclub, he isn’t the only one hoping to get her alone. Some shadowy figures will do anything to take down the Spider, Gin’s assassin alter ego, and Owen will do anything to protect her. This could be the way to win her back, or at least give her a night off from fighting for her life—if Owen can survive…

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: KISS OF VENOM is a short story-novella 8.5- in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series focusing on Gin Blanco –The Elemental Assassin. Kiss of Venom is a storyline told from Owen’s POV (Gin’s ex-lover) and one that occurs between DEADLY STING and HEART OF VENOM. If you are a fan of Jennifer’s Elemental Assassin series Kiss of Venom reveals Owen’s inner most thoughts and turmoil following his heartbreaking split from the woman he loves.

This particular novella allows the reader inside Owen’s mind as he ruminates about everyone he has wronged in his life. Although most people’s list is lengthy, Owen knows that the four most important people in his life have suffered due to his inability to see the truth and admit when he is wrong-Phillip, Cooper, Eva and Gin.

For followers of the series, all of Owen’s heartbreaking decisions revert back to his inability to see the ‘bad’ in Salina and his refusal to protect the woman that he loves. He knew that Salina’s presence in his life has hurt those that he loves but he was still reluctant to face the reality of the situation –that Salina was going to kill everyone in her way including Gin.

The storyline is somewhat cathartic for Owen as he must accept that he was wrong and yet it is not in his nature. He is a strong male; has accepted Gin for all that she is and has done; and yet he is unable to let go of his feelings for a former love. In this, Owen has placed everyone in danger and knows that to right the wrong, there is some major groveling on the horizon.

There is no one -on -one time between Owen and Gin-this story focuses on Owen and Phillip as they resolve to protect Gin from would-be assassins as they begin to wonder how all of this is connected to Mabs Monroe-the one time mob leader and enemy of the The Spider.

One thing I will point out-I did not feel this story was of the same quality as the previous novels and novellas in the series. The writing was simple-no detail-and the conversations lacked any emotion or feelings. Even the conversations between Owen and Phillip felt forced and unnatural. Yes these two best buds have been estranged for some time but I had a difficult time with the overall presentation. The voice did not feel like Estep; I did not feel a connection to the characters although I desperately wanted to sympathize with Owen because I want the sensuality of this couple back in my fantasy life.

But, if you are a fan of the Elemental Assassin series, Owen’s thoughts and ramblings about his life are an interesting and necessary addition. The reader delves deeper into Owen’s mindset at the time of Salina’s murderous rampage but that still does not excuse his actions that nearly cost him the lives of everyone he knows and loves.

Reviewed by Sandy.

__________________________________________________________

Carniepunk: PARLOR TRICKS
(Elemental Assassin #8.1)
by Jennifer Estep
Release Date: June 2013

CARNIEPUNK: Parlor Tricks (Elemental Assassin #8.1) by Jennifer Estep

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 3, 2013

PARLOR TRICKS can be found in the Carniepunk anthology released June 2013, but is a FREE download as a single short story from Jennifer Estep.

ORDER LINKS: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Come one! Come all! Witness Gin Blanco—aka the Elemental Assassin, aka the Spider—go toe to toe against the Esmerelda the Amazing’s Wheel of Death and some dangerously creepy clowns! Only at The Carnival of Wondrous Wonders!

REVIEW: PARLOR TRICKS is a short story (found in the Carniepunk Anthology) in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. Although this particular storyline is not pertinent or instrumental in the Elemental Assassin series ( and it does not further the current storyline) it does show a side to Gin as her relationship with her sister Bria grows closer with every otherworld encounter.

The premise follows Gin and Bria as they search for a missing sixteen year old girl last seen at the travelling carnival in Ashland. As fans of the series know, nothing is as simple as a missing girl. Bria and Gin will soon discover that there is more to the carnival acts than meets the eye. Someone knows something but everyone is afraid to talk. When Gin and Bria find themselves on the receiving end of some elemental magic, it will take the actions of two sisters to stop the Amazing Esmerelda and uncover the secret to her everlasting youth.

PARLOR TRICKS can be found in the anthology CARNIEPUNK released June 2013 but is FREE as a standalone. Among Jennifer’s fellow contributors are Rachel Caine, Kevin Hearne, Seanan McGuire, and Rob Thurman, and also includes Delilah S. Dawson, Kelly Gay, Mark Henry, Hillary Jacques, Jackie Kessler, Kelly Meding, Allison Pang, Nicole D. Peeler, and Jaye Wells. Each short story brings the mysterious world of the travelling carnival onto the pages of Carniepunk. If you are a fan of Jennifer Estep, Parlor Tricks is a bonus short story featuring Gin and Bria in the supernatural world of the Elemental Assassin.

Reviewed by Sandy

Midnight Frost by Jennifer Estep – a Review

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Barb

Midnight Frost by Jennifer Estep – a Review

Midnight Frost

Links to order Midnight Frost: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo /The Book Depository

Description:
Here we go again …

Just when it seems life at Mythos Academy can’t get any more dangerous, the Reapers of Chaos manage to prove me wrong. It was just a typical night at the Library of Antiquities — until a Reaper tried to poison me. The good news is I’m still alive and kicking. The bad news is the Reaper poisoned someone else instead.

As Nike’s Champion, everyone expects me to lead the charge against the Reapers, even though I’m still hurting over what happened with Spartan warrior Logan Quinn. I’ve got to get my hands on the antidote fast — otherwise, an innocent person will die. But the only known cure is hidden in some creepy ruins — and the Reapers are sure to be waiting for me there …
Review:

Midnight Frost by Jennifer Estep is the 5th book in her Mythos Academy series. Estep continues this story about Gwen Frost and her friends at Mythos Academy. In Midnight Frost, Gwen, who is now Nike’s Champion, is now fully respected by her classmates, teachers, and of course, her friends. Estep has an amazing group of characters that are immensely likable. I have always loved Gwen, and her friend Daphne is also great. When we left off, Gwen survived an attack by Logan, the boy she loves. But she knows that Logan was not in his right mind, being ruled by the evil god, Loki.

While Logan is away recovering from the reapers controlling him, Gwen once again becomes involved in an exciting adventure. While in the library working, Gwen spots a classmate putting something in her water. She realizes he is a reaper, and runs to stop him from getting away. While she wins this battle with the help of her friends, Gwen notices Nickamedes, the librarian takes a sip of her water, and collapses.

The race is on to find the antidote to save Nickamedes, which forces Gwen, and her friends and protectors to follow her to the Colorado faction of Mythos Academy. They all know they are walking into a trap, but they have no choice, other then to be prepared to fight. At the Colorado Mythos Academy, Gwen meets a strange girl, who turns out to be a cousin. Rory is a new addition, and I really liked her; another great new character added by Estep, who creates such good ones, as well and good villains. Vivian and Agrona are the villains who return in this adventure, as they try to kill Gwen, as ordered by their master, Loki.

The crux of the story is when they have to travel to the Eir ruins to find the flower which is the only antidote to save the librarian. It becomes so exciting, as the last third of the book held you at the edge of your seat, unable to put it down. The battle between Gwen and her friends against the reapers was thrilling, with a betrayer in their group. Vivian and Agrona use Roc predators to help fight this battle, and just when things are looking bad, someone shows up to help them. But as usual, the reapers, especially our antagonists always find a way to survive and escape.

There was a part of this story that I so enjoyed. Gwen, Daphne and Rory help a baby gryphon, which will come back later on to help Gwen. I loved the scenes then, and more so later, when we meet the baby gryphon’s family. These scenes were awesome.

Getting to see Nike again, and the Goddess Eir, gives us some answers for Gwen, and yet she still needs more information to help stop Loki, and his Reapers. It was also great to enjoy Vic (her talking sword), and his funny sarcastic comments. I also love Nyx, her fir wolf, though he was only there early on.

If you like Urban Fantasy, with mythology, action, excitement, a number of twists and surprises, and a wonderful young heroine; look no further then Mythos Academy. Midnight Frost was a wonderful enjoyable read, and Jennifer Estep continues to write these books so well, keeping us thoroughly entertained. I cannot wait for the next book, as it is time for Gwen to use her growing powers to defeat Loki.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

Life Sentence by Carolyn Arnold – a Review

Posted on August 13, 2013 by Barb

Life Sentence by Carolyn Arnold – a Review

life sentence

Links to order Life Sentence: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / ITunes

Description:
“If I pay with my life, you will pay with yours.”

Defense Attorney Bryan Lexan may have just taken on the case which will cost him his life. When his client, a Russian Drug Boss, is convicted of first-degree murder, he vows to make Bryan pay.

Meanwhile, Jessica Pratt has always prided herself on being a modern woman–you know, the kind who doesn’t need a man to make her feel complete. So when she finds herself torn between two, she realizes that not all decisions are based on facts. If they were, her boyfriend, Bryan, would be the logical choice. He has the family name, wealth, and a stake in a successful law firm. Only thing is, when she meets Mason Freeman, the chemistry between them is irrefutable and he won’t take no for an answer.

With both of them caught up in a struggle for survival, and a powerful enemy on their heels, they’ll need to decide where their loyalties lie.

Review:

Life Sentence by Carolyn Arnold is a romance suspense thriller, which Arnold is known for. I have read almost all of her books, and this continues the trend of writing exciting stories that keep your attention throughout.

Life Sentence has an appearance by Madison Knight, our heroine from Arnold’s Madison Knight series. The appearance was long before we get to know Madison, and this is totally separate from that series. Life Sentence is a stand alone read.

The story starts with Bryan Lexan, a wealthy and well known lawyer, who takes the murder case of a mob boss. Once Bryan accepts, the mob boss, Dimitri, tells him if he loses this case, he will pay with his life. Bryan knows Dimitri means business, but he is confident he will win this case, and it’s good for his practice.

Early on we meet Jessica Pratt, who is in love with Bryan, and patiently awaits him to ask her to marry him. What follows is a suspenseful storyline, that has unexpected twists. When Bryan loses the case, he worries about Jessica, and at that time he does ask her to marry him, and for her to live with him in his house. When her house is ransacked, Jessica does move in with Bryan and accepts his proposal.

Jessica, is also in the middle of winning a contract for the company she works for, and meets Mason, one of the owners. She is immediately attracted to him, but keeps her distance, as she is betrothed to Bryan. When Bryan’s co-partner leaves the company quickly, Jessica worries about Bryan and danger he is facing. Then one day he never comes home.

What follows is an exciting last third of the book, with Jessica’s life falling apart, and Mason trying to help her recover. There were so many surprises and twists, which changed the game often. Was Bryan killed by the mob? Will Jessica allow herself to become involved with Mason? Is Jessica’s life in danger? You will have to read this book to find the answers.

If I had to be picky, there is one thing I found a little unbelievable. Bryan was wealthy, running an excellent law firm. What person in there right mind would accept a case from the mob, with a threat of win or lose your life. Aside from that, the storyline was great.

Life Sentence is a thriller all the way, which I read non-stop. Carolyn Arnold is known for writing wonderful suspense thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, with lots of excitement, as well as many twists along the way that continually surprise you. Having read all of Arnold’s books, she never disappoints us. I wholly recommend Life Sentence for those who want an exciting thriller to read.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

Seduced by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott-Blog Tour and Giveaway

Posted on August 13, 2013 by Sandy

Seduced by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott-Blog Tour and Giveaway

A 5 part series about the meteoric rise of the band Oblivion. From the depths of despair to worldwide success, from the pinnacle of passion to the edge of madness, one thing always remains…the music.

SEDUCED
A PREQUEL to the NA rock star series Lost In Oblivion
By Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott
Release Date: July 15, 2013

Seduced Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /All Romance eBooks

Click HERE to read our review of SEDUCED.

Twenty-three year old Nick Crandall has one focus in his life: Oblivion, the band he formed with his best friend Simon Kagan. With gigs coming up and the band members lacking focus after losing their drummer to rehab, they’re out of ideas. Until Oblivion’s bassist, Deacon McCoy, poses a surprising suggestion.

Bring in someone new. Two someones.

One You Tube video gone viral later, Oblivion is poised on the brink of stardom. With their new hot drummer chick — who comes in a package deal with a talented guitarist who happens to be head over pick in unrequited love with her – it seems like everything’s falling into place. Or will the band Nick and Simon have fought to keep together disintegrate before their eyes?

Four guys & one woman + more success than they ever bargained for = trouble, of the sexiest kind.

Get Seduced by this novel-length introduction to the band Oblivion. This preview occurs before the four forthcoming books about each of the band members. Sometimes getting lost means finding yourself…

Reader Advisory: Seduced is an upper-level NA romance appropriate for mature audiences over 18 due to graphic sex and drug references

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Rocked
Book 1 Lost in Oblivion
by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott
Release Date: September 2013

Rocked Onstage he’s Demon, the unsurpassable bassist.

Offstage he’s the Peacemaker, the mastermind who keeps his volatile band from imploding.

Opening for their idols on their first ever tour, Oblivion is living the dream. That dream becomes a nightmare when Oblivion draws more attention than the headliner and egos clash. Frustrated at being shoved out of his mediator role by their new manager, Deacon McCoy loses himself in brutal workouts only coming up for air long enough to refuel—and that means hunting down the catering truck at odd hours.

Especially the deliciously cute chef who excites his taste buds as much as his body.

The child of roadie parents, Harper Pruitt has heard every pickup line twice. To her, musicians are one step above the scraps on her cutting board. All she wants is to get enough experience to run her own catering company, but Deacon and his bottomless and surprisingly gourmet stomach is too tempting to resist. Before long, she finds herself wanting to experiment with him outside the kitchen.

When Harper sees that Deacon’s sense of responsibility is doing him serious damage, she realizes he’s far from the typical rock star. But as the band’s fame grows, she wonders if she can love a man who doesn’t know how to let anyone in—even her.

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TWISTED
Lost in Oblivion #2
by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott
Release Date: December 2013

Sexy couple He’s always saved her. Now she’s going to return the favor…

Gray Duffy never thought he’d end up as the co-lead guitarist of Oblivion, one of the hottest rock bands in the country. Even better? He’s sharing the experience with his best friend, Jazz. Since the day she’d showed up as his family’s new foster kid, Gray has protected her. Loved her. And not just platonically either. After all these years of wanting her in his bed, he still doesn’t know what it would be like to have her mouth on his.

Except for that one time. The time he’d shared her with Nick. The best worst night of his life.

Now they’re living their dream. They’re making music together and spending every waking moment trapped in tight quarters. With success at their fingertips, the time is right for him to finally make his move toward the woman he needs.

He just never figured he would lose control. Or that she would find out.

They’ve loved each other through everything. But what if this time love just isn’t enough?

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About The Author Black and Red

PENTAX Image CARI QUINN

USA Today bestselling author Cari Quinn wrote her first story—a bible parable—in 2nd grade, much to the delight of the nuns at her Catholic school. Once she saw the warm reception that first tale garnered, she was hooked. Now she gets to pen sexy romances for a living and routinely counts her lucky stars. When she’s not scribbling furiously, she can usually be found watching men’s college basketball, playing her music way too loud or causing trouble. Sometimes simultaneously.

Website: http://cariquinn.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cariquinn
FB: https://www.facebook.com/cari.quinn.1
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/CariQuinnAuthor
Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott’s FB Group – Word Wenches Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/346424552124487/

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TARYN ELLIOTT

I’m from the great state of New York–upstate NY, thank you very much. My family consists of a brother who takes care of keeping the snarky side of me alive and a dog that is more spoiled child than mutt. My writer-friends are the glue that keeps my crazy ideas more in the sane category, and my non-writerly friends are the reason I’m not a complete hermit. I can’t go a day without laughing and I truly do fall in love with each and every one of my leading men as I write their book. Music is life and every story has its own soundtrack.

Website: http://tarynelliott.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TarynElliottFic
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TarynElliottFic
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/TarynElliottAuthor
Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott’s FB Group – Word Wenches Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/346424552124487/

RedandBlackgiveaway

GIVEAWAY DETAILS: 2 ways to WIN

Cari & Taryn are giving away an ecopy of SEDUCED to one lucky commenter at every participating tour stop including The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the side bar or by using one of our social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. You must leave a comment to enter

4. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONAL

5. Giveaway runs until August 30, 2013

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NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour promoter.

One lucky winner that follows the tour will receive the following prizes:

Sterling Silver earrings (attached jpg)
$10 GC to iTunes
$15 GC to Starbucks
Paperback of Seduced.
Paperback of Cari Quinn’s Unveil Me: HERE for Amazon details

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