Monthly Archives: November 2013

Searching for Someday (Love Spells #1) by Jennifer Probst-a review

Posted on by
10

SEARCHING FOR SOMEDAY (Love Spells #1) by Jennifer Probst-a review

Searching for Someday

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

RELEASE DATE: November 24, 2013

Kate has given up on love—at least for herself. She is both blessed and cursed with the ability to sense a romantic connection between two people—a gift that her family passed down for generations. When Kate launches her own matchmaking company, Kinnection, with her two best friends in a cozy New York town, she has to put aside her own romantic disasters to make her business a success.

But when a furious man stalks into her office and accuses her business of being a scam, Kate is given the ultimate challenge to prove herself. Slade puts himself in her hands and asks Kate to find him love. Enraged at his arrogance but stubbornly eager to prove herself, Kate agrees, dedicating herself to the journey of finding him love…only to find herself falling for him along the way.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SEARCHING FOR SOMEDAY is the first instalment in Jennifer Probst’s new, contemporary, adult, slightly paranormal romance series-Love Spells. The premise of this particular instalment focuses on one of the co-owners of the match making business Kinnections-Kate Seymour and jaded divorce lawyer Slade Montgomery. Kate comes from a long line of females who have the ability to sense a connection between two people but when she accidently touches her latest client-the sparks literally fly and she believes it has all been a terrible mistake-there is no way this man could ever be her soul mate.

Searching for Someday follows Kate as she embarks on a journey to find a suitable match for Slade. Slade’s sister has signed up at Kinnections and Slade is hoping to prove that the love connection business is a scam. But with each encounter between Slade and Kate their connection becomes more real even though both refuse to acknowledge the truth.

Throughout the story we watch as Slade and Kate dance around each other-from their first meeting where Slade tells Kate her business is a scam to the morning after they finally make love and Slade tells Kate this is as far as it goes. Slade is a divorcee who has been burned by his first marriage and any possibility of a permanent relationship will send Slade running for the door. There is plenty of angst and the push and pull of attraction between our couple, but Slade’s actions speak louder than his mouth. He wants Kate for his very own but he will never put himself in a situation where anything will ever become permanent again.

Jennifer Probst introduces several colorful secondary characters including Kate’s co-owner at Kinnections-Kennedy and Arilyn ; friends Alexa, Gen and Wolfe; Slade’s sister Jane; and Kate’s mother-the hippie sex counselor. And we cannot forget about the love of Kate’s life-her roommate Robert. There are many more stories yet to be told and I can see a heartbreaking storyline for Gen and Wolfe. The world building is smooth and sets up the future storylines one at a time.

Searching for Someday is a wonderful romantic and predictable storyline about two people looking for something they never knew was missing. Kate has always believed there was someone for everyone but finding her Mr. Right was never the case. Slade was a fiercely independent lawyer whose life revolved around protecting his younger sister and in doing so put himself onto a path where he would find love and a happily ever after.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

Jace (Bodyguards For Hire #1) by T.A. Grey-a review

Posted on by
13

Jace (Bodyguards For Hire #1) by T.A.Grey-a review

JACE

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: August 2013

One fateful tail-bender leaves Mara Colgen with a hard-on for Jace Mathews which is not how Mara anticipated meeting the hottest man alive. Or, rather, one crappy afternoon bodyguard Jace gets a rude awakening when some cutesy blonde rear-ends his beautiful truck. Now he’s really in for it. Mara’s pretty, funny, and has the greatest job in the world…

She is a sex toy operator.

Just those three words send Jace into a dream-like coma plagued with erotic imagery featuring the spunky sex toy operator. As luck would have it for Jace, nothing’s easy. Mara comes to him with a problem…one he cannot refuse to help her out with. Someone strange keeps calling Mara, she thinks someone’s been in her house, and worse Jace might be thinking the same thing. Mara needs help and Jace finds he’s the right man to lend a (strong) helping hand—so long as they seal the deal with more than a kiss.

REVIEW

4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

What a hot sexy read! Jace by T.A. Grey is the first book of her Bodyguards for Hire Series and I have to say I want more! A contemporary romance with some sizzling erotica, lots of witty moments, a dash of danger and a couple you can’t help but love, this book has it all.

Mara (our leading lady) finds herself plagued with dangerous phone calls (she is quite certain they are from her abusive ex she has recently ran away from) and while driving, becomes distracted and ends up rear ending a black truck. After a few choice words uttered to herself, she faces the driver of the truck and that is when her life takes another turn.

Jace (our hunky leading man and bodyguard for hire) is completely taken back by the little spitfire who has the nerve to flirt with him after rear ending his truck. Already attracted to Mara, he finds himself handing over his digits, and is seriously lusting once Mara reveals what she does for a living. She is a sex toy operator (seriously is there a job out there like that because that sounds way to good to be true ..lol).

As Mara is further threatened by her ex, she goes to see Jace hoping to secure his bodyguard services (and well if other services are included … BONUS). Jace agrees to take on Mara’s case but only on one condition. A KISS. Well, enter firecrackers, explosions and one serious hot for each other couple and we have the makings for a perfect pair. However, Mara witnesses a side of Jace that is a little too close to her ex’s behaviour, and next thing we know she is running for the hills. It’s a good thing Jace likes the chase, because there is no way he is letting Mara go anywhere. Despite his attraction, she is in serious danger and he needs to protect her!

This is a shorter read. I enjoyed this book in one sitting, and the pages were eagerly flipped (or e-reader swiped ..lol). The chemistry between these two is impressive and once the hot and heavy begins, watch out! I loved how protective Jace is over Mara. There were times I found myself rolling my eyes and wanting to slap Mara silly, but I suppose after all she has been through, I can appreciate her constant hesitation with regards to Jace! T.A. Grey also introduced a wack of yummy bodyguards, so my anticipation for more is certainly satisfied.

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Rachel

Share

Dark Witch by Nora Roberts – a Review

Posted on by
15

Dark Witch by Nora Roberts – a Review

dark witchLinks to order Dark Witch:  Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository


Description:
With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find both: a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends.

Ireland.

County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits.

Iona arrives in Ireland with nothing but her Nan’s directions, an unfailingly optimistic attitude, and an innate talent with horses. Not far from the luxurious castle where she is spending a week, she finds her cousins, Branna and Connor O’Dwyer. And since family is family, they invite her into their home and their lives.

When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horsemen, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package.

Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive…

Review:
Dark Witch by Nora Roberts is the 1st book in her new The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy.

The story starts back in the year 1263, in Ireland, as we meet the first Dark Witch, Sorcha and her three children.  Sorcha knows that the evil sorcerer Cabhan wants her and her powers, and will stop at nothing to get it.  After a tragedy, Sorcha takes matters in her own hands, giving each of her children her powers.  Each child, along with their powers, gains an animal, who will protect them.  Kathel the dog; Alastar; the horse, and Roibeard, the hawk.  Scorch dies after killing Cabhan, but he is not totally dead.

Hundreds of years and generations later, we meet Iona Sheehan. Iona has arrived in County Mayo to meet the cousins she has never met. Her grandmother wanted her to learn about her ancestors, and it is Iona who will complete the three that will once again face Cabhan, who has quietly stayed in the background, until the three witches would come together.  Iona meets her cousins, Branna and Connor, who upon meeting her, know she is the one who will complete the three who will fight Cabhan.  Iona falls in love with Ireland, and happily becomes part of this family and their friends.  She opens her heart to her destiny to be a witch, and Branna works hard to teach her how to use her untouched powers.  Iona will need to learn fast, and understand the danger ahead.

What I love about Nora’s trilogies is the friendship and family atmosphere we get to feel, and the closeness that we become part of.  The Cousins O’Dwyer is mostly concentrated on 6 people, the three witches (Iona, Branna and Connor) and their three friends, who will also play a major part in this fight against evil.  Nora creates such fabulous and interesting characters, as well as each couple in the three books who will have their story.  The other three are Boyle, whom Iona meets and immediately finds herself attracted to him.  He runs the horse ranch, and Iona, who knows horses, gets a job working for Boyle.  I must say they made a great couple, though Boyle tried hard to fight it off, as he didn’t want to be involved with an employee.  But their chemistry was hot, and it is this relationship that will play a big part in Iona being able to survive the constant attempts by Cabhan to entice her to his side.

We also meet Meara and Fin, two characters I loved.  Meara is friends with them all, and she also works for Boyle.  She is best friends with Connor, but I am sure they are destined for each other, even if they don’t see that now.   Fin is destined for Branna; but this will be difficult for them, as they both love each other, but broke up years before, due to Fin’s discovering he too is a witch, but distantly related to Cabhan. Branna could not handle or trust Fin, when she found out, even though Fin constantly expresses his love.   I adored all 6 of the main characters.

This was an exciting and fun story.  It was fun to watch Iona learn her powers, and learn about the spells.  It was fun to see her with Boyle, though there was a bad period.  It was fun to watch how the friends and family came together to face a common enemy.   But there was a lot of tense action, and danger, especially in this book for Iona.  The ending was intense, as the 6 came to face Cabhan.  Were they able to beat Cabhan?  Did they all survive?  Did Iona and Boyle resolve their issues and become a couple? This is a trilogy, so some things get resolved, but there is more to come, and I cannot wait.  I must add that this has a slight similar theme from an older series of Nora’s, Three Sisters Island, which is my all time favorite of Nora’s trilogies.  It is not the same just some similarities. If you love Nora, Ireland, Romance, Suspense, and her wonderful trilogies, you will not want to miss this series. 

Reviewed by Barb

Share

Poisoned Web by Crista McHugh – a Review

Posted on by
28

Poisoned Web by Crista McHugh – a Review

 

Poisened Web

Links to order Poisoned Web:  Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository
Description:
The fate of the empire hangs on one slave breaking her silence…

As the Deizian Empire prepares for the upcoming wedding of Emperor Titus Sergius Flavus and Azruha, one mystery remains unsolved—the sudden and unexplained death of the former emperor. And as her wedding gift to Titus, Azurha wants to give him answers. She suspects an unknown poison was involved, and her search for the truth enlists two unlikely allies.

Modius Varro’s thirst for knowledge caused an uproar in Emona three years ago and exiled him to the border town of Madrena. But when Titus falls victim to the same poison, his expertise in medicine becomes essential in solving both the riddle of the former emperor’s death and finding a cure to save the current one. His search leads him to far reaches of the Alpirion realm, to an ancient culture shrouded in secrets, and into the arms of one slave who must break her silence to save the empire.

 

Review:

Poisoned Web by Crista McHugh picks up shortly after book one, Tangled Web.  As Titus and Azurha are preparing for their wedding, Azurha can’t seem to let go of her questions surrounding his father’s death.  If someone got to Titus’ father, what would keep them from getting to him?  Once Modius arrives and Azurha tells him of her suspicions, he sets out to see if he can unravel the mystery.  And, when Azurha confides in Izana, a slave and Azurha’s attendant, and asks for her to help Modius, who has been away for some time.

When Izana meets Modius, they are immediately attracted to each other and act on that attraction rather quickly.  And once they begin their quest into finding out exactly what happened to the former emperor, they each question whether or not they should continue to act on their feelings.  Seems they both think that once the other learns of the other’s past, that will somehow change things.  Then, the unthinkable happens.  Titus is poisoned as well, and time is now as much the enemy as the person who poisoned both Titus and his father.  Once the mystery starts to unravel, Izana and Modius are placed in grave danger and have only each other to depend on.  And, depend they do.

What makes an author great for me is when they grab you from the very first and don’t let go.  That is exactly what Crista McHugh has done with Poisoned Web.  I didn’t think that she could top, or even equal, how much I loved Tangled Web.  Pfffftt!! What in the world was I thinking?  McHugh’s world-building abilities astound me.  Her characters are so relatable and so real, as is the world she builds.  Once again, there is no “filler”.  She simply tells her characters’ story and you are immediately immersed into their world.  She does a fantastic job with the secondary characters as well, of which I can’t wait to read more about.  Poisoned Web lets us see the continuation of Azurha and Titus’ relationship as well.  But make no mistake, this is definitely Izana and Modius’ story.  Izana was a great heroine.  She was fearless in her quest to help save her emperor, as well as trying to save herself and Modius.  And Modius was fearless as well in their quest as he realizes that he will do anything for the woman he loves. 

If you’ve not read any of Crista McHugh’s stories, you are doing yourself a HUGE disservice.  She is on my “must read” list and I look forward to all of her works.  I will sum this up by saying that I’d read a phone book if it were written by her.  Yep, she’s that good.  Well done Crista McHugh, very very well done……..

Review by Vickie

Copy provided by Author

 

GiveawayCrista is having a big giveaway as part of her Poisoned Web release tour — a $100 Amazon gift card or 1 of 20 autographed copies of the first book in the series, Tangled Web. Details here: http://bit.ly/1aebTrN

 

 

 

Share

Olivia Twisted by Vivi Barnes – a Review

Posted on by
9

Olivia Twisted by Vivi Barnes – a Review

Olivia Twisted
LInks to order Olivia Twisted: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
He tilts my chin up so my eyes meet his, his thumb brushing lightly across my lips. I close my eyes. I know Z is trouble. I know that being with him is going to get me into trouble. I don’t care.

At least at this moment, I don’t care.

Tossed from foster home to foster home, Olivia’s seen a lot in her sixteen years. She’s hardened, sure, though mostly just wants to fly under the radar until graduation. But her natural ability with computers catches the eye of Z, a mysterious guy at her new school. Soon, Z has brought Liv into his team of hacker elite—break into a few bank accounts, and voila, he drives a motorcycle. Follow his lead, and Olivia might even be able to escape from her oppressive foster parents. As Olivia and Z grow closer, though, so does the watchful eye of Bill Sykes, Z’s boss. And he’s got bigger plans for Liv…



Review:

I had no idea what to expect when I saw the name of this YA novel, OLIVIA TWISTED by Vivi Barnes.  After reading the first chapter, I got it and I was hooked.  Each chapter starts with a quote from Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens and this novel was a fresh and original take on this classic novel.

We learn in the early chapters how Olivia has been shipped from foster family to foster family.  She once yearned for love, but now she just wants to fly under the radar and finish high school.  She is in a new family and a new school when she meets the enigma named Z.  Yes, he legally changed his name to Z and he is a computer genius.  Olivia isn’t so bad herself with computers and hacking into programs.  Z soon sets his eye on her for recruitment, but what does that mean?  That’s when things turn interesting.

Z belongs to a group of orphans that are computer hackers!  Olivia wonders how he can afford to ride a Ducati motorcycle and live in a mansion with the others.  Olivia is soon tested to see if she wants to escape from the oppressive foster system and live the good life.  Of course there is an evil villain, you read Oliver Twist or watched the movie!  Bill Sykes is one tough boss.  He keeps a watchful eye on the orphans, because they do bring in millions of dollars.  Bill has plans for Olivia, but will she and Z go along with them?

Olivia Twisted is a great novel for teens of all ages.  Z and Olivia is such an engaging couple.  There are family secrets revealed along the way and choices to be made. I learned a lot about computer hacking and even changed my passwords to some accounts!  An added bonus!  Give this novel a chance!  It’s a fast paced story that has a great ending!  Enjoy!

Reviewed by Jules

Copy supplied by Publisher

Share

Anne Elizabeth – Once a Seal – Interview, Review and Giveaway

Posted on by
42

Anne Elizabeth – Once a Seal – Interview and Review

Once a Seal
Navy Seals (Book 2)
by Anne Elizabeth
Released: November 5, 2013Once a SealLinks to order Once a Seal: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

 

Review

Description:
It’s going to take a SEAL’s strength to make this marriage work

Every woman dreams of marrying the perfect man-handsome, thoughtful, strong, and sensitive -and Aria Kavanagh believes she’s found the ultimate hero in Chief Petty Officer Daniel McCullum. But being a U.S. Navy SEAL wife is a serious challenge, especially when the missions are putting more than their love in the line of fire. Can they jump the hurdles and handle the daily rigors without falling apart? Or will the pressures attached to the handsome uniform have them both questioning if their dedication is worth it? Every moment matters when the only thing that truly lasts is love.

 

Review:

4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Once A Seal by Anne Elizabeth can be classified as a contemporary romance.  This is the first time I have read a book by this author and I have to say she shows promise.  Her story held absolute realistic characters and a extremely realistic storyline.  I totally related to this story on a personal level having served many years in the Canadian Forces myself, and I often found myself nodding in agreement, cringing as I read about a civilian trying to adapt to the regimented life of military members and praying that this marriage between our main characters will survive all the stress.

Our story starts off with a bang.  Our leading lady Aria is on a beach, in her wedding gown, eager for her soon to be hubby (that would be our main man Dan) to arrive via helicopter.  As much as I would of loved to believe this was romantic, it was far from it.  Dan is a Navy SEAL who is time crunched after completing a mission.  Though he was late to his own wedding he marries Aria and off they go to start their life together.

While honeymooning near the base, Dan is called away to tackle some military tasks and immediately Aria is thrown into life as a military wife.  After only having known Dan a few weeks prior to marriage, she is shocked to find all the things she needs to know to be a successful military wife.  It seems Dan explains things on the fly just expecting Aria to comply and accept her new life.  I was completely overwhelmed for her.

While trying to adjust to military life, Aria begins to get upset at how little Dan is home and how she is required to do all on her own (all meaning set up house, adapt to military life and even attend military wives functions).  Throw in unplanned guardianship of her younger brother who after much lose is rebelling, Aria is scarcely keeping it together and often is  questioning if she should of married Dan.  Dan on the other hand seems to think that Aria will conform without complaint like a good little military wife.  Add present dangers for them both due to Dan’s occupation, and both healing from troubled pasts, it’s no surprise when things start to fall apart between these two.

Okay … so as I mentioned earlier, this is an absolute realistic story.  I was impressed with the little details that Anne Elizabeth included with regards to military protocol.  Clearly she has either served, has been a spouse of a service member and/or has friends who serve.  She also dove into some action scenes of Dan and his fellow SEAL’s engaged in dangerous missions.  The camaraderie of SEAL brother’s and SEAL wives was evident as well.  I will say though that this book tended to drag a little.  I became bored a few times while reading prolonged descriptions that really could of been edited out.  I think that disturbed the natural flow of the story.

So, the big question is.  Does Aria have what it takes to be a SEAL wife?  Can she adjust and will Dan understand that she needs time to understand all the protocols, rules and his frequent absence?  What is Dan willing to risk to keep Aria?  You’ll have to check it out for yourself …LOL

HAPPY READING!

Review by Rachel

Copy provided by Publisher

Interview-RED

Anne, we at the Reading Café would like to thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. 

TRC:  Can you please tell us about yourself?

Anne:  I’m a Navy wife, a step-mother, a grandmother, a romance writer, a columnist, and a comic creator. I have a BS in Business and A MS in Communications from Boston University. I am a member of the Author’s Guild and RWA as well as a regular presenter at RT Book Lovers Convention. My contemporary romance is for adults and focuses on Spec Ops and Navy SEALS, and my paranormal comics are geared toward teens. I like the outdoors and we have an exuberant yellow Lab.

TRC:  When and how did you first become interested in writing?

Anne:  Books have intrigued from the time I was a child. My mother tells a story about me…that I learned to read at age three so I could put my own stories into books. Unfortunately, it took me a little longer to learn to write.

TRC:  Once a Seal, which was released last week, is your second book about Navy Seals.  Is this a series about Navy Seals, or are they standalones?

Anne:  Each book is about a different Team, but several of the characters are reoccuring. For those that enjoy continuity, I believe they’ll enjoy the link; and those that prefer standalones, readers can pick up a book and start from anywhere.

Once a SealTRC:  Can you please give us a brief description of Once a Seal?

Anne:  Book Blurb: Every woman dreams of marrying the perfect man-handsome, thoughtful, strong, and sensitive -and Aria Kavanagh believes she’s found the ultimate hero in Petty Officer Second Class Daniel McCullum. But being a U.S. Navy SEAL wife is a serious challenge, especially when the missions are putting more than their love in the line of fire. Can they jump the hurdles and handle the daily rigors without falling apart? Or will the pressures attached to the handsome uniform have them both questioning if their dedication is worth it? Every moment matters when the only thing that truly lasts is love.

TRC: As a Navy wife, did you find it easier to use your life experience for the background of this premise?  Did you still find yourself still having to do research on Navy Seals?

Anne: I always do research. Even if I am pulling information from my own life, I want to make sure I am not making generalizations that are unfounded. So, I conduct interviews with other wives and SEALS. I will even check secondary research such as military case histories, if they are de-classified. My main goal is to represent and support the SEAL community in a positive light.

TRC:  You write Military Romance, Contemporary Romance and Spicy Romance.  Do you have a preference?   Is there any other genre you have a desire to write?

Anne: I love it all! If I could, I would write in all of the genres. Each time I change from spicy to contemporary, it stretches me to think in new directions.

TRC:  Can you please tell us what you working on now?

Anne: I am editing the third book of my SEAL series and editing my script for the fourth graphic novel of the PULSE series as well as two short comics. I enjoy having a job that lets me bring my dog to the office each day and no one minds if I wear pajamas or jeans or a business suit.

TRC:  What is your writing process?  Do you have a favorite place or time you like to write? What are the challenges or difficulties that you found in your writing career?

Anne: Since I am a monthly columnist for RT Book Reviews magazine on comics, manga, and graphic novels as well as a romance writer and comic creator, I have to write every day. My deadlines are mapped out on a giant calendar and to stay on-time, I work each day until I achieve my goal. There are times this schedule can be grueling and there are times that I’m so fulfilled that I cannot stop smiling.

TRC:  You have created a number of Teen Comics.  Can you please tell us about this other part of your career, and how you came to do this?

Anne: I’ve always adored comics. I began the PULSE OF POWER project when I was in high school and kept adding novel-length manuscripts and short stories to the series. When…years ago, I won a contest that Laurell K Hamilton was running and won an opportunity to be in a comic book. I met the publishers and when they found out I was a writer they asked me to pitch a project…and the rest is history. 🙂

TRC:  On your Website, I see that you enjoy doing dangerous sports such as jumping out of an airplane or flying a glider.  Have you always been this adventurous?

Anne: Yes. I was always the child with scrapped knees and elbows from all of my daredevil activities. As an adult, I have more opportunities to experience things. It’s a serious bummer when I end up on crutches!

TRC: Do you make your heroines the same?

Anne: Heavens, no! Each heroine and hero is different. They are well-rounded individuals with different tastes in food, music, clothes, etc. I like mixing things up, because it keeps me intrigued with them, too.

LIGHTNING ROUND:

FAVORITE FOOD Bananas

FAVORITE DESSERT Chocolate 🙂

MILK OR DARK CHOCOLATE  Both!

FAVORITE ACTOR (TV OR MOVIES)  John Lithgow

FAVORITE LITERARY CHARACTER (not your own) The Cat (from The Cat in The Hat)

DOG OR CAT?  Dog.

TRC:  Thank you, Anne for answering our questions. The Reading Café wishes you the best of luck with ONCE A SEAL.  Keep us informed about your upcoming releases. We look forward to working with you again.

Anne:  Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to chat with your readers on The Reading Café! HOOYAH!!!~AE

About the authoranne elizabethAnne Elizabeth is a published author, comic creator, and the monthly columnist for RT BOOK REVIEWS on the topic of comics, manga, and graphic novels. She was awarded the LA Banks Warrior Woman Award at the RT Book Lovers Convention in 2013. She has a BS in Business and a MS in Communications from Boston University and is a member of the Author’s Guild; Romance Writers of America; and a regular presenter at the RT BOOK LOVERS Convention. AE has published multicultural and romantic fiction with Atria/Simon & Schuster, Highland Press, and Sourcebooks and graphic novels with Dynamite Entertainment and Sea Lion Books LLC. AE grew up in Greenwich, CT, and currently lives in the mountains above San Diego with her husband, a retired Navy SEAL. In her free time, she is also a serious Amelia Earhart who is always on the hunt for a new adventure. Most recently, she jumped from an airplane and flew a glider. Her motto is “Live boldly.”

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

 

 

giveaway

Anne and her publisher have graciously offered to give one lucky member of The Reading Café a paper copy of Once a Seal.

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 U.S. Only

4.  Contests runs from November 14, to November 17, 2013

Share

Soul Resurrected by Keri Lake-Blog Tour and Giveaway

Posted on by
20

Soul Resurrected by Keri Lake-Blog Tour and Giveaway

Soul Resurrected Banner

Soul Resurrected
Sons of Wrath #2
by Keri Lake
Release Date: October 31, 2013
Genre: paranormal, UF, adult

SoulResurrectedCover

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

As Wrath’s fiercest son, Logan carries the scars of fifty years spent in the most dreaded prison of the underworld, for a sin he’d kill to keep secret. Enduring decades of gruesome torture has left Logan feared by and detached from others, until a female Alexi’s blood resurrects his soul from death and, with it, the pleasures he’s been denied for so long.

Plagued by shame of her own, Calla is drawn to the ruthless demon, Logan, whose insatiable craving for her touch rouses buried passions and, for once, leaves her feeling desired.

A dark and dangerous evil has been reawakened, however, and when Calla is drawn too close to its breeding grounds, Logan vows to summon the violence of Wrath in order to keep her safe. First, though, Calla must save him from a past riddled with deceit and corruption … but only if she can accept the chilling consequences of unearthing his vilest skeleton.

Sons of Wrath
Never gamble with vengeance …

Review:

Detached. That is the first word that comes to mind for me to describe Logan as this book starts. He has literally been through hell and brought back to life by Calla. To say he is angry at the world is an understatement, but, once you find out his back story, you can totally understand his anger and his detachment. The shame he carries is unfathomable, and when he finds himself attracted to Calla, he tries everything in his power to scare her and push her away. And, he almost succeeds……………

Calla finds herself at a crossroads. Her Alexi group has been disbanded and she is taken in by the Sons of Wrath after she saved Logan. She has one thing on her mind: vengeance. One of her fellow Alexi contributed to her brother’s death and she has vowed to track him down and make him pay. But when she finds herself attracted to the enigma that is Logan, Son of Wrath, she is oh so tempted………

There is A LOT going on in this book. There is a species of “supes”, known as the Sang, thought long extinct that has been brought back by a nefarious group that can lead to the ultimate destruction of everyone, human and supe alike. Once things start going askew, the Brothers (Sons of Wrath) head out to engage the enemy, whom they think are the Lycans. Little do know that the Sang are adding to their numbers and using the Lycans to bait the Brothers. Or, is it the Brothers that they ultimately want?

Once the story unfolds, the action is pretty much nonstop. And brutal. The torture that some of the beings in this book endure is very graphic. The bad guys are B.A.D. But, once the Brothers finally figure out exactly what is going on, they move heaven and earth, and the underworld, to make things right. And, once Logan and Calla learn each other’s darkest secrets, they know absolutely that they belong to each other.

The premise of this story is a good one, but I had a little trouble following at times. Like I said, there is A LOT going on in this one. With that said, it was an enjoyable read, but very dark and not something that would usually pique my interest. I enjoyed the interaction of the Brothers and really liked Logan and Calla’s interaction as well. I also have to admit that when Calla finally learns Logan’s secret, I teared up. I loved the way that Calla stood up for Logan and his humble acceptance of her love for him. And the mating ceremony at the end? Very well done.

If you’re looking for something edgy and dark with a little twist, this one is for you.

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Vickie M.

excerpt

Calla followed behind Bennett, stepping out onto the freshly fallen snow of the back property. Sunlight flickered like diamonds across the enormous yard. Snow had begun to melt, leaving small patches where browning grass peeked through. The edges of the property continued beyond, as if it stretched on forever.

Something emerged from the forest to the left.Large. Dark. Ghastly. It charged toward the two of them with two more joining up at each flank. Bennett stepped in front of Calla and walked out to meet the enormous hounds.

Hellhounds.

Nothing about them looked intimidating as they sniffed Bennett and trotted behind at his heels, back in her direction.

Calla’s breath hitched the closer they approached and the clearer their form came into view. Bones peeked through matted and gnarled fur, and exposed flesh pocked their coats. No dog in creation compared to the hounds. Not even the lycans. Bigger with red, menacing eyes, and unmistakably hellspawn, each beast carried its own intimidating dark aura.

… yet yielded at Bennett’s command. All three sat in a perfect row, like soldiers, standing at attention.

“The larger one in the center is Magnus.” Bennett pointed as he spoke. “The other two are Zeus and Diesel.”

“Interesting names.”

Without the slightest bit of humor, Bennett glanced over. “Master Gavin can be rather unconventional.”

The low rumble of growls indicated the dogs weren’t entirely sold on Calla. A snarl warned she’d better not try to pet one.

Bennett barked something in a language Calla didn’t recognize. The dog quieted and Ben turned to her and spoke in the common word, “You’ve been introduced. I suspect they’ll leave you alone now.”

“You suspect?”

“Humans aren’t much sport to them.” He arched a deformed brow. “Too easy a kill.” A wave of his hands and all three dogs retreated back toward the woods.

“Thank you, Bennett.”

“Of course.” He turned back toward her as if to return to the house. “Will that be all, miss?”

“Yeah Ben, thanks again.” Calla cautiously ambled out into the yard, a shiver running down her spine as the cold seeped into her bones.

A wall of leaves and vine created a path that Calla followed through the maze. Her skin prickled, as if something trailed her steps and she glanced back. Tracking a few yards behind, Magnus’ red glowing eyes zeroed in on her.

Calla’s stomach tightened. Something in those eyes, though, suggested only curiosity, as the hound didn’t approach, but instead sat back on its haunches, seeming to wait. She continued on.

Cloaked from the sun, the inside of the maze made a dark and eerie intrusion on her mind, giving the illusion that it could have been night, if not for the rays of light filtering through the branches. With slow and cautious steps she advanced deeper into darkness. Tingles crawled her spine and she rubbed her arms to settle the goose bumps forming on her skin, her eyes searching the foliage all the while, waiting for something to jump out. Nothing. A crackle echoed from behind and Calla spun around, dagger drawn and pointed … at Magnus. She straightened from her defensive stance and tipped her head. Eye to eye, they stood only a few yards from each other—as if both unsure whether to trust the other. She sheathed the dagger and huffed. “If you’re going to follow me, quit with the sneaking up. Got it, dog?”

Magnus’ eye twitched.

Calla backed up a couple of steps before carrying on. The hound kept his distance, but continued to follow. Growling brought Calla to a halt A warning? Was she going somewhere she shouldn’t? She looked over her shoulder, staring at the dog, puzzling his intent. Pins and needles intensified across her skin. Her stomach clenched.

“What have we here?” A ghostly whisper in her ear forced her back a step.

Keri Lake

about the author

Keri LakeKeri Lake is a married mother of two living in Michigan. She writes paranormal romance, urban fantasy and loves a good, tragic love story. Though novels tend to be her focus, she also writes short stories and flash fiction whenever distraction manages to suck her in to the Land of Shiny Things.
When she isn’t toiling away on plots and protagonists, she enjoys reading, music and travel. If she could create mystical powers for herself, she’d have the ability to flash to anywhere in the world. And if she could flash to anywhere in the world at this very moment, she’d be staring at the ocean from her adirondack chair on the shores of North Carolina.

Website:  http://www.kerilake.com
Twitter:  http://twitter.com/KeriLake
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/KeriLakeAuthor
Pinterest:  http://www.pinterest.com/kerilake/
Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5335601.Keri_Lake
Amazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Keri-Lake/e/B006VY7EM6

rafflecopter giveaway

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

GIVEAWAY is open INTERNATIONALLY

1st Prize:

1-$30 Amazon Gift card
1-Signed Paperback Soul Resurrected (Sons of Wrath, #2)
1-Limited Edition Print signed by Julian Christian & Keri Lake
1-Property of Logan T-Shirt
1-Soul Resurrected Tote Bag
1-Soul Resurrected Notebook & Pen set
1-Sons of Wrath Wine Glass Charm set
1-Soul Resurrected Book Mark
1-Soul Resurrected Coffee Mug

2nd Prize:

1-$20 Amazon Gift Card
1-Signed Paperback Soul Resurrected (Sons of Wrath, #2)
1-Soul Resurrected Tote
1-Soul Resurrected Notebook & Pen set
1-Soul Resurrected Purse Clip
1-Sons of Wrath Wine Glass Charm set

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Share

Mended (Connections #3) by Kim Karr-Cover Reveal and Excerpt

Posted on by
9

Mended (Connections #3) by Kim Karr Cover Reveal and Excerpt

Mended Cover Reveal Banner

Mended Connections #3 by Kim Karr
© 2013 by Kim Karr
Published by the Penguin Group
Release date: June 3, 2014

Mended

PRE ORDER LINKS: Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble

*MUSIC HAS THE POWER TO HEAL ALL. BUT NOT ALL BROKEN HEARTS CAN BE MENDED.*

Always in control, Xander Wilde considered life on the road to be a perfect fit for him. But when disaster strikes on the Wilde Ones™ latest tour, fate intervenes and a newly single Ivy Taylor, the only girl he has ever loved, steps back into his life. *

After moving past her painful breakup with Xander years ago, Ivy was poised to become the next big name in pop music when suddenly she withdrew from the limelight the same day she announced her engagement to her controlling agent, Damon Wolf. *

Xander knows he should keep his distance. But once they’re on the road, he can’t resist pursuing her for a second chance. Yet a jealous Damon can’t let her go and he’s keeping dangerous secrets that could destroy them all.

When the three of them come together, everything falls apart. But if Xander and Ivy can hold tight to the bond that connects them, they just might have a chance at reclaiming the powerful love they thought they had lost forever….

excerpt

Xander Wilde

Excerpt from Mended Connections #3
by Kim Karr © 2013 by Kim Karr
Published by the Penguin Group
Release date: June 3, 2014

The magic of rock and roll—it casts a spell on you. I’m no exception. I’m a band manager and I’m living the dream, touring with The Wilde Ones, helping them secure their well-deserved place in the music industry. I love being a part of it all, especially watching the band perform live—the crowds, the cheers, the music. It’s a high and a low all at once and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Every step of the way with this band has been fun, exciting, stressful—every possible emotion. Obviously we’ve had some breaks but mostly we all put in a lot of hard work—myself, Garrett Flynn, Phoenix Harper, River Wilde, and now Zane Perry.

“Can you hear me now?” he bellows.

I nod my head as my heart pounds in my chest. My hands feel cold and clammy and a nervousness that makes me weak and shaky takes over. Doubts race through my head and I’m questioning if he’s going to make it through this. A vague awareness that something bad could happen kicks around in my mind and I can’t shake it. The Wilde Ones are doing a sound check on stage and Zane’s not on his game.

It’s July and the weather has been brutally hot. But today it seems cooler. Maybe it’s the California weather maybe it’s the excitement of being home. The Beautiful Lies Tour bus finally rolled back into our home state of California after six months away. When we pulled into the amphitheater, we could see tanned kids in board shorts and bikini tops already lined up at the will call window. Security guards in polo shirts directed us to the artist parking lot, and we were officially home. Tonight we’ll be headlining our biggest show to date. We’re on tour without my brother, River, and still more than half of the shows are sold out, including tonight’s. River quit the band—touring just wasn’t for him but even so the album is on its way up the charts. Who knows it may even hit gold status.

The songs on the album were written and sung by River but are performed in concert by Zane. Having him as my brother’s replacement has been the key to our successful transition in a world where replacing leads is normally unsuccessful—simply put, we’re lucky as hell to have him. River promised to make a surprise appearance at our next stop. It’s going to be epic.

MENDED BOOK TRAILER 
You tube- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRJPlEw_vqY
Vimeo- https://vimeo.com/78876133

Series Spotlight pink

CONNECTED (Connections #1)
by Kim Karr

Click HERE for our review of CONNECTED.

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO

ConnectedABOUT THE BOOK: Released May 7, 2013

What if a ‘Once in a Lifetime’ could happen twice?

Suffering from a past full of tragedy, Dahlia London’s soul has been left completely shattered. Happily ever after is a far cry from reality in her world. But, when she is reconnected with her past, the bonds that form are irrefutable.

When River Wilde, lead singer of The Wilde Ones, comes back into Dahlia’s life, the intensity that fires their relationship combined with underlying feelings that have never died lead her to believe she has met her soulmate.

Struggling with confusion as old connections fade and new ones begin, Dahlia’s grief begins to lift–but guilt remains. River wants to be the one to mend all that is torn within her.
_______________________________

TORN (Connections #2)
by Kim Karr

Click HERE for our review of TORN-Book #2 in Kim Karr’s Connections series

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Torn Cover HDRock star River Wilde brought Dahlia London back from the brink of hopelessness with his unwavering love and devotion. But their entangled history is about to test the strength of their relationship…

Dahlia was certain she had found true love and met her “Once in a Lifetime’ when she reconnected with River. But Dahlia’s world comes crashing down when someone from her past resurfaces, and all of River’s carefully hidden secrets are exposed.

River wants to show Dahlia that life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass—it’s about dancing in the rain. But how many times can one broken heart be mended? Will River and Dahlia be able to stay together or will they be torn apart?

 

About the Author pink

Kim Karr

I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

I wear a lot of hats! Writer, book-lover, wife, soccer-mom, taxi driver, and the all around go-to person of the family. However, I always find time to read. One of my favorite family outings use to be taking my kids to the bookstore or the library. Today, my oldest child is in college and my twins are juniors so they no longer go with me on these outings. And although I don’t need to go to the actual store anymore because I have the greatest device ever invented—a Kindle, I still do. There’s nothing like a paperback. So now my four year old and I make dates out of going to the bookstore–it’s time I love and cherish.

I like to believe in soulmates, kindred spirits, true friends, and Happily-Ever-Afters. I love to drink champagne, listen to music, and hopes to always stay young at heart. 

Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Pinterest 

Share