Daughters of the Nile by Stephanie Dray-a review

Posted on December 6, 2013 by Sandy

Daughters of the Nile (Cleopatra’s Daughter #3) by Stephanie Dray-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2013

Based on the true story of Cleopatra’s daughter…

After years of abuse as the emperor’s captive in Rome, Cleopatra Selene has found a safe harbor. No longer the pitiful orphaned daughter of the despised Egyptian Whore, the twenty year old is now the most powerful queen in the empire, ruling over the kingdom of Mauretania—an exotic land of enchanting possibility where she intends to revive her dynasty.

With her husband, King Juba II and the magic of Isis that is her birthright, Selene brings prosperity and peace to a kingdom thirsty for both. But when Augustus Caesar jealously demands that Selene’s children be given over to him to be fostered in Rome, she’s drawn back into the web of imperial plots and intrigues that she vowed to leave behind.

Determined and resourceful, Selene must shield her loved ones from the emperor’s wrath, all while vying with ruthless rivals like King Herod. Can she find a way to overcome the threat to her marriage, her kingdom, her family, and her faith? Or will she be the last of her line?

•••••••••••••••••••••••

Daughters of the Nile is a wonderfully compelling and interesting historical fiction. The story concerns Cleopatra Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and “Mark Antony”. I was completely unaware that all of Cleopatra’s children were not killed. So, for me this is a new part of history. This book was very well researched and put together.

Stephanie Dray put together a compelling tale of what life was like for Cleopatra’s daughter Selene. Taken to Rome in chains by the emperor, raped, humiliated…her tale is one of survival and so much more. This is the third book in this series, I have not read the first but due to the compelling nature of this one, I may have to go back to read the others.

The book “feels” historically correct. I loved the way she described and brought to life the way women lived during this time. Even the religious beliefs were written as a person living them with thoughts and actions relating to everyday life, just as if you were living it. I found the whole tale fascinating and well written. It’s rich with life, love and adventure.

If you like to read about the times of ancient Rome and the surrounding kingdoms, this is a must read. It’s clever, compelling and very exciting. I completely enjoyed the story and wonderful woman Selene became. She could have been after the same power her mother was, and yet she wanted to much more realistic things. To leave behind her a legacy that would stand through time. She may not be as talked about as her mother, but I feel her life was so much more significant than that of Cleopatra.

It’s a large book, but so compelling and worth the time to read! It’s impossible to tell you all the wonderful things in it and do it justice. It must be read to be experienced. I’ll actually be reading the whole series, simply because I must!

Copy supplied by publisher for an honest review.

Review by Georgianna

About The author

Stephanie Dray Stephanie graduated with a degree in Government from Smith, a small women’s college in Massachusetts where—to the consternation of her devoted professors—she was unable to master Latin. However, her focus on Middle Eastern Studies gave her a deeper understanding of the consequences of Egypt’s ancient clash with Rome, both in terms of the still-extant tensions between East and West as well as the worldwide decline of female-oriented religion.

Before she wrote novels, Stephanie was a lawyer, a game designer, and a teacher. Now she uses the transformative power of magic realism to illuminate the stories of women in history and inspire the young women of today. She remains fascinated by all things Roman or Egyptian and has—to the consternation of her devoted husband—collected a house full of cats and ancient artifacts.

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Return to Sender/Return to You by Julie Cross – Reviews

Posted on December 6, 2013 by Barb

Return to Sender/Return to You by Julie Cross – Reviews

Return to Sender

Links to order Return to Sender: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Description:
If only summer could last forever…

Karen and Jordan might be out in the open with their relationship, but that doesn’t make it any easier for them to face events looming in the future. Like Jordan leaving for college halfway across the country. Or Karen’s win at a big international gymnastics competition setting the bar high for her future and adding pressure like she’s never experienced before.

But when Nina Jones (aka-US Gymnastics Dictator), makes plans for Karen and teammate Stevie to train at a gymnastics camp for a month—the same camp where Jordan coaches—romantic summer interludes replace their fears of being apart. Both Jordan and Karen know that when fall comes, some very tough decisions will have to be made, but for now, it’s stolen kisses, racing hearts, and whispered words

Review:
Return to Sender by Julie Cross is her return to the lives of Karen and Jordan, whom we met and loved in Letters to Nowhere. I loved Letters to Nowhere and was thrilled when Julie decided, due to the wonderful feedback, to continue their story. However, in Return to Sender, Julie will be doing short stories, as we follow Karen in her quest to rise up in the Gymnastic world. If you remember my review of LTN; being part of this world, watching them practice, and fight to make the National team and eventually make the Olympic team was great. In the middle of this, we spend more time with Karen, as she recovers from the loss of her parents, and trying to move on. We continue to fall more in love with Jordan, who is such a great character, as he is the perfect young man for Karen. He wants to take things slow, as she is still very much deep in her emotional grief, and vulnerable. Jordan loves Karen, and she too loves him. But gymnastics is everything for her, and this is where she must concentrate, and Jordan is always there for her.

For her own counseling, Karen’s therapist still has her writing her letters to nowhere to allow her to express her emotions. Very nice touch. What is nice about this series is watching Karen daily, as she handles the pressures of her gymnastics hopes, especially after coming off winning an international competition; as well as trying to come to terms with her parents’ death. One of the most emotional moments was when Karen went to help clean out her old home with her grandma, her best friend Blair and her therapist, Jackie. We watched Karen fall apart as she put on her mothers jewelry, and especially when she sat in the closet surrounded by her mother’s clothes. I loved when Blair joined her in the closet, then they both picked an outfit to try on. It was the perfect cleansing of her soul.

Return to Sender allows us to follow Karen and Jordan, as their relationship grows. We also get to see how Karen will do on her quest to make the Olympics, as well as to follow the daily life of elite gymnastics. Letters to Nowhere gave us a full story, and Julie now allows us to continue this story in what is probably the best way…a little glimpse at a time. This is well written story of two young people slowly falling in love; a young girl trying to cope with tragedy and life; and a background of what it’s like to be an Olympic hopeful gymnast; it is family and friends being there for each other. I look forward to reading more about Karen and Jordan, and learning more about this fantastic look at gymnastics.

Letters3 (2) Links to order Return to You: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Description:
How many dreams can you chase at once?

Even with bad boy, TJ, disrupting their morning workouts, Karen and Stevie’s daily battles with each other are sure to bring both of them closer to a national title at next month’s championships. It’s the kind of feud that creates winning results.

Until a fall from the uneven bars shakes Karen’s rock-solid confidence. Not only does she balk every time she so much as attempts a routine, she’s also facing all this without much support from Jordan. After receiving some bad news, Jordan’s reluctance to listen to reason causes Karen so much frustration she begins to avoid him, needing space to deal with her own issues. He needs someone to force him to make the right choice, he needs his dad to intervene and Karen knows this, but is torn between her loyalty to Jordan and her concern for her coach’s son. Even though both paths lead to the same person—Jordan—it feels like she’s choosing between two different people.

And then there’s the growing tension between TJ and Stevie. They’re obviously on the verge of either ripping each other’s heads off or ripping each other’s clothes off. It’s hard for either Jordan or Karen to tell where those two are headed. Tension is building from every possible outlet and there’s bound to be an explosion of some kind in the very near future.

Review:

Return to You by Julie Cross, continues with short stories the lives or Karen and Jordan, our heroes from Letters to Nowhere. I really do enjoy this young couple, and watching them in their daily lives, especially Karen’s quest to reach the Nationals, and eventually the Olympics. The only problem I have with the short stories is that it is difficult to do reviews. The description above more or less tells it all.

Karen and Stevie continue to practice under the eyes of the National coach, Nina. But the crux of the story is both Karen & Jordan having their own issues. Jordan is there with his friend T.J., helping coach young kids at camp. Jordan is sick, with constant fevers, and Karen is having a difficult time, since she fell off the bars. With all this going on, T.J. and Stevie are at each others throats, but it is the arrogant T.J. who tries to help Karen, since Jordan is nowhere to be found.

Though you know how much they love each other, you can sense tension in Karen and Jordan’s relationship, mainly due to each of their issues. They key element of this story is the main background of the gymnastics, and trying to prove they deserve to go to the Nationals. Julie Cross is an excellent writer, and this is wonderful story that continues. Return to Sender was a great continuation, and Return to You is good, but I felt it needed a bit more meat. Perhaps I am not getting enough of this story in the short format, as I know that I love Karen and Jordan, and the fabulous gymnastics background.

Reviews by Barb

Copy provided by Author

Love Me? by K.E. Osborne – a Review

Posted on December 5, 2013 by Barb

Love Me? by K.E. Osborne – a Review

Love me Links to order Love Me?: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Description:
In the first book of The Trust Me? Trilogy, Jeni Taylor finds the love of her life, but as the second book begins, she finds herself lost without Aiden O’Connell, who’s been wrongly convicted of embezzlement charges and incarcerated. She must find the strength within to help prove he’s innocent while dealing with other issues. Aiden’s father, Alastair, still taunts her, making life between Jeni and Aiden more difficult, and an unexpected visitor enters their lives, creating havoc and turning it upside down. Jeni’s trust issues return in a major way after an incident leaves her fragile and broken. Aiden and Jeni find themselves going through more trials and tribulations than ever before in this second installment of the Trust Me? Trilogy. In the end, Jeni will be asked the ultimate question: Do you still love me?

Review:

Love Me? Is the second book in The Trust Me Trilogy by K.E. Osborn. The love story continues with Jeni and Aiden. Although in this book the story is not all fairytales and rainbows. Life continues to throw wrenches at them and this book examines if their life can weather what comes at them. The love between Jeni and Aiden is undeniable – the chemistry is unwavering. There are twists and turns that leave you speechless – and there is no way to do a just review without giving away spoilers!

Just know that my emotions ran the gamut – from sadness, to anger, to passion, to empathy. Jeni staggers emotionally in this story and there are just reasons behind all of it. Aiden continues to please in every sense of the word. He is definitely book boyfriend material.

I read this book in one sitting – and I am quickly learning that this author takes the term cliffhanger to epic proportions! The only thing left to say – the cliffhanger (again) – well played Miss Osborn – well played!!

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Author

Whitney: Alpha Marked by Celia Kyle-Review and Blog Tour

Posted on December 5, 2013 by Sandy

Whitney: Alpha Marked by Celia Kyle-Review and Blog Tour

Whitney
Alpha Marked #3
by Celia Kyle
Release Date: October 26, 2013
Genre: paranormal, erotica, contemporary

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WHITNEY (Alpha Marked #3) by Celia Kyle

review

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 26, 3013

Thirty and single? Well, getcha ass to the Gathering!

Whitney Wickham is at the darned annual werewolf Gathering all right. Only there’s one problem: she doesn’t belong there. Her sisters carry the Mark indicating they’ll mate an Alpha Pair of wolves, while Whitney does not have that lovely, swirling scar. She’s been hauled half way around the world to be stared at, and not-so-covertly sniffed, for no reason. Unfortunately the gorgeous, drool worthy, magic-mojo-wielding Wardens don’t know why she’s been summoned to the Gathering any more than she does. Which sucks. But at least they’re hot.

Emmett Greene and Levy Walters are Wardens–keepers of the law and embodiment of the magic of the werewolves. They can never mate, never marry, and never form a lasting romantic relationship. It’s a hard and fast law that keeps their powers pure of outside influence.

Rules are going to be broken.

One look at Whitney, one hint of her scent, and they realize their immovable laws might have to jiggle. She’s got luscious curves, a wicked smile, and a mouth that would make a thousand men weep. No matter the rules, their inner wolves will claim her. The only things standing in their way are the Elder Wardens who will do anything… anything… to keep Emmett and Levy from discovering the truth: the laws are wrong. And being with Whitney Wickham is so very, very right.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHITNEY is the third instalment in Celia Kyle’s erotic, paranormal Alpha Marked novella series focusing on fraternal triplets-Scarlet, Gabrielle and Whitney-potential mates to alpha pairs. This is an erotic series with M/M/F sexual situations and is therefore recommended for 18+ years.

The premise of the novella length storylines is the festival of The Gathering- a speed dating (of sorts) where marked human females (who have not been claimed by their thirtieth birthday) are commanded to present themselves as potential mates for Alpha pairs. This is Whitney’s story and all three storylines take place over one weekend.

The premise follows Whitney –unmarked and therefore not a potential mate for the alpha pairs- but for some unexplained reason her presence has been commanded by the magical ruling Wardens. Hoping to get an explanation as to why she has been invited, Whitney will come face to face with the two men who would eventually become her mates.

The storyline has a bit of a twist from the previous two novellas. Throughout the history of the shifters, ruling Wardens have not been allowed to mate and are therefore exempt from the Gathering but on this particular weekend, Emmett and Levy are pulled towards the remaining and unmarked Wickham triplet and if their internal wolf is correct-this woman is their mate. But what ensues is a magical minefield where the ruling elders will take aim at Whitney to ensure the ruling Wardens never take a mate.

Celia Kyle has written another fast paced, action filled storyline where the attraction between potential mates is instant, sexual and animalistic. There is no denying that these three are meant for one another and in completing the mating ritual they will open the possibility for ruling Wardens everywhere to find their own mates without threat of death or incarceration.

If you like a paranormal storyline of action, sexual heat and a little bit on the kinky side, Celia Kyle’s Alpha Marked series is for you.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series spotlight

Scarlet Alpha Marked #1: Scarlet
by Celia Kyle
Release Date: April 2013

Click HERE for our review of SCARLET: Alpha Marked

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Thirty and single? Well, getcha ass to the Gathering!

As if hitting thirty wasn’t enough, unmated Scarlet Wickham is summoned to this year’s Gathering. As a woman Marked to be the mate of an Alpha pair, she’s not going to find happiness anywhere other than in the arms of two Alpha werewolves. So, off she goes with her sisters in tow. ‘Cause yeah, she’s one of the plump Wickham triplets, and they’re all being carted off to werewolf speed dating.

Keller and Madden, Ruling Alpha pair, can’t believe their luck. They’ve found their mate, and she’s more than they could have ever hoped for. She’s feisty with spirit to spare, and lush curves that they want to trace with their tongues. They can’t wait to solidify their bond and get to know the beautiful woman who is to rule at their side. But first, there’s the minor inconvenience of a challenge to the death…

______________________

Alpha Marked #2: Gabriella
by Celia Kyle
Release Date: June 2013

Click HERE for our review of GABRIELLA: Alpha Marked

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Thirty and single? Getcha ass to the Gathering!

Ugh. Gabriella Wickham thought turning thirty was bad enough, but now she’s been invited (ordered) to attend this year’s Gathering (werewolf speed dating). Having a Mark on her arm means that she’s one of the few human women destined to mate with not one, but two Alpha werewolves. Thank goodness werewolves don’t come in “ugly.” After her sister Scarlet mates the Ruling Alphas, things really start to get interesting. Gabby runs into not one, but two hotter than hot werewolves who make her tingle in all the right places. Yum. Of course, “yum” comes with baggage of both the mental and female kind. Lovely. Luckily it’s nothing a few punches and a good talking to can’t cure. Maybe…-ish.

Berke Davis and Jack Wright know that lush, curvaceous Gabriella is their mate. Who cares that they’re currently not part of an Alpha pair? Details, details. Burke has been half bound to his best friend Jack since they were four, but the past keeps them from solidifying their pairing and taking up the mantle of Alpha. Berke understands his friend’s feelings, but Jack is about to get a lesson on living and loving. Berke just hopes the lessons are learned before they both lose Gabriella. Especially when she is Challenged by a rival to first blood…a Challenge that could end in very permanent, and deadly, consequences…for Gabriella.

_______________________

ck_whitney_200x300 Alpha Marked #3: Whitney
by Celia Kyle
Release Date: October 2013

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Thirty and single? Well, getcha ass to the Gathering!

Rules are going to be broken.

About the Author

Celia Kyle

Celia Kyle is a paranormal erotic romance author and would like to rule the world and become a ninja. As a fallback, she’s working on her writing career and giving readers stories that touch their hearts and *ahem* other places.

Connect with Celia:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Blog Tour Schedule

Click HERE for a complete blog tour schedule

Cover Reveal and Giveaway-Latymer by Tracey Devlyn

Posted on December 5, 2013 by Sandy

Cover Reveal and Giveaway-Latymer by Tracey Devlyn

Latymer Giveaway

Latymer:
A Nexus Novella
Genre: Historical Romantic Thriller
Length: 71 pages
ISBN: 9781940677002
Release Date: January 7, 2014
Publisher: TDC Creations, Inc.

Latymer

Traitor or savior…or something far more devastating?

William Townsend, Lord Latymer, lost the woman he loved because of his greed and his ultimate deception of two powerful countries. Now, he must protect his nine-year-old son from the same fate. Latymer has only one chance to escape his enemies—board a ship that would carry them both to America and a new life. But first he must find his missing son, elude a vengeful grieving brother, and kill a beautiful French assassin. Time is slipping through his fingers and Latymer has twelve hours before his ship and his future sail away.

••••••••••••••

Excerpt

Releasing a breath, Latymer moved from room to room, floor to floor, sifting through the evening shadows with painstaking precision. White linens draped every piece of furniture, making the once-happy atmosphere feel more like that of a dreary mausoleum. He saved Lydia’s bedchamber for last.

Had he been stronger, he would have gone there first, knowing if Giles had managed to find his way home, he would’ve sought the comfort of his mother’s chamber.
An instinctual response for any child, especially one who’d suffered so much. But Latymer’s courage began to flag the moment he placed his boot on the first stair. Although he could ignore the grief, he hadn’t been able to control the longing. After the French had kidnapped Giles and forced Lydia to spy on Somerton for them, he’d come here often. This house, their possessions, her bedchamber—the only links he had left to his lover and his son. Once he’d learned of her death, he’d stopped coming.

He stared at Lydia’s bedchamber door now, praying Giles was within. If he lost his son to the French, as he’d lost the woman he loved, not even Bonaparte would be safe from his vengeance. Turning the handle, he eased the door open and slipped inside. Low, flickering light caught his eye. “Giles?”

“No, darling, not Giles.”

Collette.

His heart sank like a bag of tarnished coins into his gut. How had she known to come here? Had she followed Giles? His gaze slashed around the chamber, searching for his son. Nothing, nothing, nothing.

The lamplight grew stronger.

“Looking for someone?” Collette’s bloodred lips tipped up into a taunting smile.

“Where is he?”

Sitting at Lydia’s dressing room table, Collette reached for a silver comb that lay next to a small pistol. She slid the hairpiece into her mass of dark locks, twisting her head one way, then the other, inspecting her handiwork. He’d given the comb to Lydia on her birthday five years ago. Seeing the special piece in his enemy’s possession sent fire streaking through his veins. She met his gaze in the looking glass.

“He?”

“Don’t play games with me, Collette. What have you done with my son?”

“We will get to him later.” She rose and turned to face him. “First, let us discuss the unfinished business you have yet to attend to.”

“There is no later. If you know where my son is, tell me now.” The steel in his voice drew forth two new bodyguards—one from the corridor and one from the dressing room—both as large as the last two he’d dispatched.

“It appears you purchase your brawn in bulk.”

Her eyes twinkled. “So much more convenient that way. Now, about that unfinished business . . .”

••••••••••••

About The author

Tracey Devlyn is an award-winning author who writes historical romantic thrillers (translation: a slightly more grievous journey toward the heroine’s happy ending). She’s a co-founder of Romance University, a group blog dedicated to readers and writers of romance, and Lady Jane’s Salon-Naperville, Chicagoland’s exciting new reading salon devoted to romantic fiction.

An Illinois native, Tracey spends her evenings harassing her once-in-a-lifetime husband and her weekends torturing her characters. For more information on Tracey, including her Internet haunts, contest updates, and details on her upcoming novels, please visit her website.

Site: http://traceydevlyn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTraceyDevlyn
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TraceyDevlyn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4099565.Tracey_Devlyn

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Remy (Real #3) by Katy Evans-a review

Posted on December 4, 2013 by Sandy

Remy (Real #3) by Katy Evans-a review

Remy

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 26, 2013

Underground fighter Remington Tate is a mystery, even to himself. His mind is dark and light, complex and enlightening. At times his actions and moods are carefully measured, and at others, they spin out of control.

Through it all, there’s been one constant: wanting, needing, loving, and protecting Brooke Dumas. This is his story; from the first moment he laid eyes on her and knew, without a doubt, she would be the realest thing he’s ever had to fight for.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: REMY is the third instalment in Katy Evans contemporary, new adult Real series focusing on underground fighter Remington Tate and Brooke Dumas-the woman that he loves. REMY is a storyline that parallels the time line of both REAL (#1) and MINE (#2). It is told in flashbacks from Remington’s POV and some present day leading up to Remy and Brooke’s wedding.

The premise is identical to the previous two instalments but we are pulled into a darker world of one man’s obsession with the woman that he loves. Remy suffers with bi-polar disorder and the emotional fall out that affects everyone in his life. Refusing to be medicated, Remy suffers ‘black periods’ where he loses all concept of time and what is happening. REMY follows our hero through his tumultuous battle with the disease, his friends and himself. Remy’s fears of losing Brooke consume his every thought and in this the reader is pulled onto a roller coaster ride of epic proportion.

Katy’s style of writing is pervasive through the storyline-her use of similar phrases and expressions is seen throughout the entire series; Remy’s need for Brooke; the continuous references to scent, smell and taste; as well as Remy’s dysfunctional jealousy and possession of the woman he loves; and the repetition of mine, Mine, MINE. Remy is a psychiatrist’s nightmare and yet he is unwilling to be medicated because it affects his emotional and physical stability.

There are few things in the series that are questionable and unbelievable including the degree to which Remy refuses help or medication for a disorder that controls and affects every aspect of his life. The character is a danger to himself and to others but the solution proposed (in Mine #2) is not necessarily the best choice-in fact, it is only used as a last resort. But saying that, it is after all, a fictional storyline, with fictional characters in a fictional world and who are we to question when the series is presented as entertainment for the enjoyment of the author’s readers and fans.

Reviewed by Sandy

Catching Up With Melissa Mayhue

Posted on December 4, 2013 by Barb

Catching Up With Melissa Mayhue

The Reading Cafe is thrilled to welcome back Melissa Mayhue. Melissa is here today to talk about her just released book, Warrior Untamed and her ohter new book, Take a Chance, which is the start of a new series. She will also tell us what she has in store for 2014.

Let’s Catch Up with Melissa.

TRC: Hi, Melissa. Thank you for taking the time to visit us at The Reading Cafe, to discuss you recently released “Warrior Untamed”, as well as your upcoming new series.

Melissa: Thank you for inviting me, Barb. I really appreciate the opportunity to visit with your readers!

TRC: You have just released Warrior Untamed, which is the 4th book in you’re the Warrior series. For those who may not have read this series, would you please give us a brief description of the premise of the series?

Melissa: The Warrior series is set in the highlands of Scotland in 1294. It's filled with the same Faerie magic as readers might remember from my Daughters of the Glen series [since it's a spin-off from that series!] with the added dimension of magic from the Norse gods. The underlying premise is a fight between factions of a family for control of their clan which has led to the release of a monster from Norse mythology into the mortal world.

TRC: Will you please tell us a bit about Warrior Untamed, which was released a week ago?

Melissa: Warrior Untamed is Halldor and Bridget's story. It wraps up the overall battle in the Warrior series and gives readers the big picture Happy Ever After they've been waiting for in this series. Here's the back copy blurb:

Award-winning author Melissa Mayhue returns to the Highlands, where a beautiful warrior intent on avenging her father’s murder joins forces with the captivating Norseman who saved her life…

Descendant of the ancient Pictish royal line, Bridget MacCulloch fears nothing, so when brash Halldor O’Donar rebuffs her offer to help defeat the foe that killed her father, she refuses to surrender her quest. But Bridget’s need for vengeance is equaled only by her growing attraction to Halldor.

Descendant of the Norse god Thor, Halldor must find the missing Sword of the Ancients, for only with this weapon can he overcome the loathsome monster that has entered the Mortal world determined to destroy it. Though he’s forbidden Bridget from accompanying him on his mission, he soon discovers the stubborn–yet sinfully irresistible–warrior princess heeds no one but herself.

Now they must learn to trust each other if they’re to defeat their enemies…or risk everything as they surrender to a desire with the power to conquer all.

TRC: You have a new book coming in the next week, Take A Chance. Can you please tell us the premise of this new series? Also how many books are you planning on?

Melissa: This is the first of my new contemporary Chance, Colorado series. It's basically the story of a small mountain town in Colorado and the people who live there. The tag line for the series sums it up pretty well: Chance, Colorado - Where love gets a second chance.

I can't tell you yet how many books there will be. I'm finding that as I'm building the town and adding people, more stories keep coming to life!

TRC: Can you please give us a brief description of your first book, Take A Chance?

Melissa: Here's the back copy blurb for Take a Chance:

Allison Flynn has spent the last eight years struggling to build the life of her dreams. But a cheating boyfriend, the loss of her beloved job, and her mother's illness have all conspired to bring her back home again, shutting the door on those dreams.

Logan O'Connor is a man driven by guilt and haunted by the what-ifs of his choices in life. Betrayed by the woman he'd thought he loved, he's given up any dream of the Happy Ever After he'd once assumed his life would have and devoted himself to his work.

When Allie and Logan cross paths, they'll need to risk their hearts once more to have any chance at finding what they really want.

Sometimes you have to take a chance to make your dreams come true...

TRC: What are you currently working on, and what do you have planned for 2014?

Melissa: I’m currently putting the finishing touches on Take A Chance to ready it for its December release. I have at least two books slated for 2014 — the second Chance book [Second Chance at Love – Liz and Ryan’s book] and another highlander book, which will be the beginning of a new spinoff series, All The Time You Need. This new series will be set in the same world as both Daughters and Warriors and will, I’m sure, bring back some characters from both of those series [there are still so many who need their stories told!!]

This first story will follow one of the characters introduced in Warrior Untamed, Alexander MacKillican, and his unexpected encounter with modern day woman thrown back into his time.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Melissa: Only that I'd love to hear from any of your readers who have questions or comments. They can find me on Facebook [www.facebook.com/Melissa.Mayhue.Author ] or they can stop by my website [www.MelissaMayhue.com] and leave a comment in the ShoutBox. If they'd like to stay informed as to when my books are being released, they can sign up for my newsletter at www.MelissaMayhue.com/newsletter.html.

With the release of Take A Chance, we've also started a Chance, Colorado group on Facebook, [ https://www.facebook.com/groups/614037238656349/ ] specifically for readers to talk about the stories, the characters, or to share any of their other reading favorites with one another. You're all invited to join in with us and talk books!

TRC: Thank you, Melissa for giving us an update on Warrior Untamed and Take a Chance, as well as what we can look forward to in the future. It was a pleasure talking with you again. We hope to catch up again in the future.

Melissa: Thank you, Barb. It was great to visit with you again!

orangeandbluegiveaway

Melissa has graciously offered to give one lucky member of The Reading Café a paper copy of Warrior Untamed and an e-copy of Take a Chance.

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. & Canada Only

4. Contests runs from December 4, to December 7, 2013

Warrior Untamed/Take a Chance by Melissa Mayhue – reviews

Posted on December 4, 2013 by Barb

Warrior Untamed/Take a Chance by Melissa Mayhue – reviews

Melissa Mayhue has two releases within weeks apart. Warrior Untamed is part of her Warrior series, and Take a Chance is Melissa’s first book in a new romance series. Below are the reviews of each book.

Warrior Untamed
Warrior series – Book 3
by Melissa Mayhue
Release Date: November 26, 2013
Warrior Untamed Novem 2013 Links to order Warrior Untamed:
Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
If only Bridget MacCulloch, descendant of the mighty Picts, could control her temper and overcome her lack of patience, she’d likely be the most formidable warrior of her day. But how’s she supposed to master that temper when all the men she encounters seem determined to thwart her every move, suggesting that she find a good husband and settle down? Her only interest in life is avenging her father’s death—a goal which in no way includes spending time with the arrogant, domineering Norseman who saved her life.

As a descendant of the Norse god Thor, Halldor O’Donar carries his ancestor’s title as the Protector of Man. Though he’s plagued by interfering Faeries, he’s determined to save Mankind from a monster that escaped from his ancestors’ world. The last thing he wants is a wild-tempered woman to distract him from his quest.

But the Fates have other ideas. Brie and Hall find that the only way to meet their individual goals is to work together. To succeed, she must learn to harness her negative emotions to free the power of the warrior within, and he must let down his protective walls to allow one very special woman inside…

Review:

Warrior Untamed is the 3^rd book in Melissa Mayhue’s Warrior series. When we left off in Warrior Reborn, I suspected that our heroes would be Bridget and Hall, and I was right. Warrior Untamed picks up with Hall rescuing and bringing Brie back to Castle MacGahan. Brie and Hall have very strong feelings for each other. Hall though tries desperately to hold back his feelings, as he is a descendant of Thor, and knows he cannot take Bridget with him, when he returns. Brie is a one of a kind heroine, tough, confident, temperamental, independent and stubborn, not to mention a perfect female warrior. She truly is a perfect match for Hall. But despite her feelings for Hall, Brie senses his distance, even though she can see the desire in his eyes, and just takes it as meaning he isn’t interested in a woman like her.

It is Brie’s stubbornness and intense desire to enact revenge against our villain, Torquil for killing her father. She will not let anyone stand in her way, which is difficult as both Hall and her brother, Jamesy want to protect her by forcing her to stay back in the Castle. Brie sneaks out more then once along the way, always a step of ahead of them, though Hall does catch up with her a few times.

The villain, Torquil, is actually a beast that has taken over his body. Fenrir lives inside Torquil, and will stop at nothing to kill anyone who tries to lock him up again. Hall knows that Brie’s stubbornness will get her killed, or worse yet, the beast will overtake her body. She keeps escaping Hall, and each time he comes to her rescue, but Brie will not be stopped, as it is her right to kill Torquil. This is an exciting adventure, and Hall and Brie made a fabulous couple. The sexual chemistry between them is hot, and despite their misgivings, they are both very much in love with each other. Will Hall be able to find a way to have Brie as his mate? Will Hall be able to save a reckless Brie? Will both Torquil and Fenrir meet their deserved end?

Melissa Mayhue once again creates a fabulous story, and brings everything to a conclusion. I loved the epilogue when we get to see all of the fabulous heroes of the three books, and see how they are doing in their lives. I am a huge of fan of Melissa, and am dying to know what is next (besides her contemporary romance Take a Chance)? Warrior spinoff? Daughters of the Glen? If you have not read this series, you need to start with Warrior Redemption and then continue on to Warrior Reborn and Warrior Untamed. Great series for the always fantastic Melissa Mayhue.

Take a Chance
Chance Colorado series – Book 1
by Melissa Mayhue
Release Date: December 16,2013

TAKEACHANCE-FrontCover(forAmazonandSmashwords) Links to order Take a Chance: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Description:
Allison Flynn has spent the last eight years struggling to build the life of her dreams. But a cheating boyfriend, the loss of her beloved job, and her mother’s illness have all conspired to bring her back home again, shutting the door on those dreams.

Logan O’Connor is a man driven by guilt and haunted by the what-ifs of his choices in life. Betrayed by the woman he’d thought he loved, he’s given up any dream of the Happy Ever After he’d once assumed his life would have and devoted himself to his work.

When Allie and Logan cross paths, they’ll need to risk their hearts once more to have any chance at finding what they really want.

Sometimes you have to take a chance to make your dreams come true

Review:

Take a Chance by Melissa Mayhue is her first book in her Chance Colorado series. Take a Chance is a contemporary romance, which is a new genre for Melissa. The story takes place in Chance, a small town in Colorado.

Allison (Allie) is our heroine, whom we meet as a teenager, 8 years before present time. Allie has always had a secret crush on her brother’s friend, Logan. But Logan doesn’t even know Allie exists, especially since he only sees her as his friend’s little sister. At her prom, she is with Ryan, Logan’s brother, and he finds out that she has been using him to be able to meet Logan. With her best friend betraying her, and her embarrassment for doing that to her friend, Ryan, Allie leaves town soonafter graduation.

The story picks up 8 years later, as Allie’s brother Matt, has been injured while stationed oversees, and with her mother ill, Allie decides to go home with Matt and help take care of both of them. Having caught her current boyfriend having an affair, made it easier for Allie to go home again, something she swore she would never do.

No matter how much she tries to avoid some people, she does come face to face with Logan, the boy she crushed over 8 years earlier. This time Logan notices the beautiful young woman, whom he does not really know.

This is a sweet romance that has such a nice hometown feel. I loved Allie and Logan together, as they took their time to build this romance. At first, Allie shied away from Logan, thinking he knew the story of why she left town. But no one cares what happened years earlier, especially when she was just a teenager. Melissa Mayhue has created some wonderful characters that make this story so good. I loved the cousins, Desi and Dulcie, and their coffee shop. I want to go there and taste their fabulous cakes and great coffee. It is the cousins who help Allie settle in Chance, to build her own life. I also loved Logan’s brash sister, Katy, and Logan’s friend Tanner, a hot hot fireman. I can foresee a budding romance with Katy and Tanne. Melissa also gives us a glimpse at some new characters that we can be sure will have their own story.

If you enjoy a pure romance; a small town atmosphere; a wonderful couple; great secondary characters; then this book is perfect for you. Take a Chance is a new genre for Melissa Mayhue, but no matter what she does, she is a fabulous writer. Being a big fan of Melissa, it is no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed Take a Chance. I wholly recommend that you also Take a Chance. 🙂

Reviews by Barb

Copies provided by Author/Publisher

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Warrior Untamed/Take a Chance by Melissa Mayhue – reviews

Warrior Untamed/Take a Chance by Melissa Mayhue – reviews

Melissa Mayhue has two releases within weeks apart. Warrior Untamed is part of her Warrior series, and Take a Chance is Melissa’s first book in a new romance series. Below are the reviews of each book.