Monthly Archives: June 2014

Don’t Blackmail The Vampire (Sons of Kane #2) by Tiffany Allee-Review and Blog Tour

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Don’t Blackmail The Vampire (Sons of Kane #2) by Tiffany Allee-Review and Blog Tour

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Don’t Blackmail The Vampire
Sons of Kane #2
by Tiffany Allee
Release Date:
Genre: contemporary, adult, paranormal, vampire

Don't Blackmail the Vampire

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2014

Rachel Davis will do anything to get her sister out of a bad relationship with her fiancé. Even if it involves a few fibs, a little breaking-and-entering, and blackmailing the fiancé’s potential boss, Charles, for his help. So what if the handsome Charles happens to be a vampire?

Charles Wright has found the perfect way to trap the man threatening his brother’s wife: cozy up to him, get invited along on the skiing trip, and then search for incriminating evidence. How much better that audacious but gorgeous Rachel is just as eager to nail the bastard. As far as he’s concerned, there’s nothing wrong with a little blackmail between two consenting adults. Especially when it’s time for Rachel to pay up.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DON’T BLACKMAIL THE VAMPIRE is the second instalment in Tiffany Allee’s contemporary adult Sons of Kane paranormal romance series. This is Rachel Davis and vampire Charles Wright’s story. Although it is the second in the series, Don’t Blackmail The Vampire can be read as a standalone without too much difficulty.

Told from third person POV, the storyline follows Rachel and Charles as they set up Rachel’s future brother in law who is also the number one suspect in a series of threats against Charles future sister in law Alice. The fact that Charles is a vampire adds a heightened sense of mistrust as far as Rachel is concerned because her ultimate goal is to prove to her sister Kristen that Brent (her fiancé) cannot be trusted. As Charles and Rachel begin to pull Brent into their web, the threats against Charles’s SIL are mounting. Rachel’s heart is set on proving to her sister that Brent is no good and sets out to break up their relationship blackmailing Charles in the process.

The relationship between Rachel and Charles is slow to develop as a good portion of the storyline finds our couple engaged in a series of mishaps in order to find out the truth about Brent. Rachel and Kristen have a difficult time when it comes to trust and Rachel is determined to prove that no man can be trusted with their hearts or their love-in this, there is the push and pull of anxiety where Rachel’s heart is concerned. Charles wants a relationship with Rachel but Rachel is afraid of getting hurt and her only concern is proving Brent is slime. Her need and all encompassing desire to end her sister’s relationship blinds Rachel to what would become of the aftermath with the results.

The world building continues from book one-Don’t Bite The Bridesmaid-with the inclusion of Alice and Noah (Charles’s brother) who give a familiarity to the storyline but their story is not necessary to understand what is happening in the current plot as Tiffany reveals the information where needed.

DON’T BLACKMAIL THE VAMPIRE is a quick paced, humorous look at the paranormal. The characters are likeable and colorful; the sex scenes are hot and seductive; the conversations reveal the backstory and history that brought everyone to the present.

Tiffany Allee writes a captivating storyline that will please the romance as well as the paranormal lover-in all of us.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

_____________________

Don't Bite the BridesmaidDON’T BITE THE BRIDESMAID
A Sons of Kane Novel, Book One
Genre: Light Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing (Covet)
Length: Novel
Release Date: May 27, 2013

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

Alice Shepard needs one thing: a date for her sister’s wedding. And not just any date. A hunk who will make her fiancé rue the day he left her for her best friend. Her drop-dead gorgeous neighbor fits the bill—even if he is a bit quirky and never comes out during the day—and Alice has downed just enough appletinis to ask him. But she makes it quite clear that there will be no funny business.

Spending a week on a cruise ship full of humans while sleeping close to his sexy next-door neighbor sounds like a helluva bad idea to vampire Noah Thorpe. But his friends need time to get him out of a shotgun wedding—a vampire bonding that will tie his fate to a female vampire he’s never met. And Alice’s offer comes at just the right time.
What could possibly go wrong?

About the Author Black and rose

Tiffany AlleeCPA-turned-romance-author Tiffany Allee used to battle spreadsheets in Corporate America, and now concentrates on her characters’ battles to find love. Raised in small-town Colorado, Tiffany currently lives in Phoenix, AZ, by way of Chicago and Denver. She is happily married to a secret romantic who tolerates her crazy mutterings.

She writes about ass-kicking heroines and the strong heroes who love them. Her work includes the suspense-driven From the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency series which revolves around a group of paranormal cops solving crimes and finding love, and Don’t Bite the Bridesmaid, a lighthearted paranormal romance (Entangled Publishing).

Tiffany has an MBA in accounting and nearly a decade of experience in corporate finance. All super useful stuff for a writer who spends far too much time trying to figure out fun ways to keep her characters apart, and interesting ways to kill people (for her books—of course!).
Connect with Tiffany:
Website: http://tiffanyallee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authortiffanyallee
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/TiffanyAllee
Blog:  http://tiffanyallee.com/blog/
Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5420367.Tiffany_Allee

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

 

Excerpt #2
“We got nowhere,” Rachel whispered, fumbling with her key card. Dammit. She could barely get her door open—no wonder she struggled with skiing.
“We’ll do better tomorrow, I’m sure.” Charles took a step back, and the door finally blinked green at her. Without pausing long enough to think about what she was doing, she shoved the door open and grabbed his arm, and pulled him into the room with her.
The door slammed shut behind them, and she felt along the wall, trying to find the light switch.
“If you wanted me in your bed, you could have asked. Although I am digging this ‘drag me along and have your way with me thing,’” he said.
“As if.” There—hah! The switch. Light flooded the room, and relief flooded her. Silly, because the vampire could attack her just as easily in the light as in the dark, but it made her feel better anyway.
Not that he looked ready to attack. A bemused expression covered his face. And really, she wasn’t sure it was an attack that she feared from him now. At least, not the suck-her-blood kind of attack.
“I mean, it’s not that I couldn’t get into the scenario you seem to have in mind. Would you like to club me over the head, too, before you drag me the rest of the way to your bed?”
She chose to ignore that. “I can’t believe how charming you aren’t. We made no progress tonight.”
“First, I’m quite charming. I keep telling you how charming I am, so I’m not sure why you keep forgetting. Brent was practically preening for me, he wants the job so badly. Second, I laid groundwork tonight. Your sister thinks I’m charming and mysterious and a good friend for rescuing you from that snowbank.”
She stopped pacing, still facing away from him, and said, “Thanks for that, by the way.”
“Saving damsels in distress is all in a day’s work for your friendly local vampire.”
She turned to face him. “Oh my God, are you messing up Spider-Man quotes to impress me or something?”

 

 

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What a Woman Needs by Judi Fennell – a Review

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What a Woman Needs by Judi Fennell – a Review

 

What a woman needsAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BMM

Description:
What happens when three irresistibly sexy brothers lose a poker bet to their enterprising sister? They get hired out for her housecleaning venture. Now, the Manley Maids are at your service. Satisfaction guaranteed. It’s what a woman needs…

Big shot movie star Bryan Manley is destined for fame and fortune, not a repeat of his penny-pinching “normal” childhood. But a bet is a bet, so he agrees to play maid for Beth Hamilton—as long as he can use his servitude as research for his next role, and then resume his life in the spotlight.

After her husband’s death and the publicity surrounding it, all Beth needs is a quiet, normal life for herself and her children. She never expected a new Prince Charming to show up at her door, let alone as the new maid. But when the paparazzi follow, Beth is sure of one thing: Bryan has to go.

Then flirtation turns into seduction, and Bryan needs to convince Beth he’s more man than maid—or an actor playing a maid. Because this latest gig as the love of Beth Hamilton’s life just might be the role of a lifetime…

 

Review:
What a Woman Needs by Judi Fennell is the 2nd book in her wonderful Manley Maids series. I am glad I discovered Fennell in the first book, as she is a wonderful writer, who pulls you into the story right away. The key though is her ability to make you enjoy every moment throughout the story, as well as become totally invested into her fabulous characters. You don’t just fall in love with couple, but also with the secondary characters. This is pure romance, with a couple you are rooting for from the start. As much as I enjoyed the first book, What a Woman Wants, I loved this one even more.

Just in case you missed my earlier review, the premise of this series is how the Manley brothers lose a bet to their sister. She runs Manley Maids, and having won a card game, each of the brothers have to do housecleaning for a few weeks at an assigned client. Our hero in this book is Bryan Manley, who is a gorgeous hunk, and a popular movie star. Bryan is in between his movies, and like his brothers, is not happy to have to be a maid, even for a few weeks, but he honors the bet.

Beth Hamilton is our heroine, who has been widowed for a couple of years. Beth is has no time for any life, as she has 5 children, a dog and cat, who totally run the household. Friends of Beth, trying to find a way for her to get some help, arrange with Manley Maids for a few weeks of help. Of course, no one thought the person coming would be the famous Bryan Manley. When Beth opens the door, she is shocked, as she recognizes who is standing there. What follows is a sweet, wildly fun story of an unlikely romance that begins to build slowly, as you turn each page.

Beth, having her hands full with her family, finds herself attracted to Bryan, but so does all her friends, and everyone else. She ignores her feelings, knowing he is only there for a few weeks, and she does not want to let herself fall for him, since he is a big star, and Beth does not want any kind of spotlight on her family. Bryan though finds himself falling for the beautiful, down to earth Beth, as well as her wonderfully rambunctious family. He wants his career, and knows he doesn’t have time to be in any kind of relationship. Will Beth succumb to Bryan’s hotness? Will Bryan allow himself to stay with Beth and her 5 children? Is there any hope for this relationship?

Judi Fennell has such away with creating characters you care about. Bryan and Beth were a fabulous and hot couple. The children were all wonderful, and it was so nice to see how they became so close to Bryan, and he with them. We even got a kick out of the dog and cat. But best of all was how Fennell continued to build this attraction between a movie star and a mother, who was trying to survive with a family out of control, especially with the death of their father. It was so well done, as we anxiously waited for them to finally succumbed to their lust; and when they did, it was totally sizzling.

This was a wonderful fun filled romance, enjoyable all the way through. If you love romance, a hot sexy couple, a fun family atmosphere, and a wonderful storyline, then look no further then What a Woman Needs.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Love Potions by Michelle M. Pillow – a Review

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Love Potions by Michelle M. Pillow – a Review

 

Love PotionsAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Contemporary Scottish Magickal Romance

A little magickal mischief never hurt anyone…

Erik MacGregor, from a clan of ancient Scottish warlocks, isn’t looking for love. After centuries, it’s not even a consideration…until he moves in next door to Lydia Barratt. It’s clear that the shy beauty wants nothing to do with him, but he’s drawn to her nonetheless and determined to win her over.

Lydia Barratt just wants to be left alone to grow flowers and make lotions in her old Victorian house. The last thing she needs is a demanding Scottish man meddling in her private life. Just because he’s gorgeous and totally rocks a kilt doesn’t mean she’s going to fall for his seductive manner.

But Erik won’t give up and just as Lydia let’s her guard down, his sister decides to get involved. Her little love potion prank goes terribly wrong, making Lydia the target of his sudden embarrassingly obsessive behavior. They’ll have to find a way to pull Erik out of the spell fast when it becomes clear that Lydia has more than a lovesick warlock to worry about. Evil lurks within the shadows and it plans to use Lydia, alive or dead, to take out Erik and his clan for good.

Review:

What’s the saying about nosey neighbors? Who cares?! When hot Scot Erik MacGregor moves in…you want to demolish all local housing to ensure his residence is permanent (or better yet, moving in with you!) But I’m getting waaaay ahead of myself. The MacGregor clan of ancient warlocks is moving into the mansion right next door to Lydia. Erik’s family insists on privacy, to guard their nature, so a little “push” should ensure innocuous Lydia’s compliance. Wait until he gets a load of Lydia…who may contain something special of her own. In Love Potions, Michelle M. Pillow weaves a magickal tale about finding love when you least expect it…and making sure you hang on with hands, heart and hope.

“…Lydia’s my inthrall.”

“No,” Euann gasped, sitting forward. The smirk finally faded from his expression.

“Oh, aye.”

“No.”

“Aye, she is.”

“Euann!”

“Sorry.” Euann gave a sheepishly apologetic shrug. “Did she have to touch ya for a long time? Does she know? What’s it feel like? Being sucked of energy like that?”

Can I elaborate you ask (Yes, I can hear you!) How’s about discovering the woman who makes you weak at the knees, is literally absorbing and draining your powers? *Check to see if the ink’s dried on the sale of the house?* No can do, lol. Lydia is the owner of Love Potions, a company of lotions, soaps and teas inherited from Gramma Annabelle, aka, “the witch on the hill”. A pea of a supernatural pod then! Not. Lydia has never believed, let alone indulged in the craft. Perhaps Lydia should heed the whispers and concoct something to prevent harm upon Erik while simultaneously allowing their union? I.would.make.it.my.job!!! 😀

A whirlwind of events continue to surround Lydia since the fateful encounter with Erik. While Erik detects no malice from Lydia (if anything their unique bond is growing stronger), he does sense a disturbance (and it’s not of the cool Star Wars variety – regrettably). An old, dark magick has tracked the MacGregors and will plow through Lydia as collateral damage.

The liderc could suck his power from Lydia and then turn it against Erik and his family.

That so? Aside from Erik’s power depletion lays an ability to harness his beast. What?! Read on, my friends…Erik is a man of many talents! The entire clan (brothers, a sister, cousins, Ma and Da) is a riot to be accurate. There is evil afoot, but Ms. Pillow perfectly times, and interjects, several elements that result in a well-rounded story. A wonderful amalgam of humor and camaraderie (Erik’s caterwauling was a spiteful success) set astride bold, lustful scenes to steam your summer. And not to be outdone is a healthy dose of fear. The infiltration of invisible, uninvited spirits wreaks havoc upon Lydia’s home and person (igniting Erik’s protective streak). The butting of heads within the story included my own as a reader. Stop drawing so many lines, Lydia! 😀 If I may, the presence of a special ghost could have benefitted from italics; something distinctive to showcase her dialogue and message.

All in all, I couldn’t be happier with the book! Michelle M. Pillow wrote a layered delight for all to enjoy. Just when things appear settled, she rattles your acquiescence to deliver another thrill, giggle or shudder. Totally my kind of read! There was a connection flowing between Lydia’s BFF and one of Erik’s brothers. No need to stop here, Ms. Pillow – we can all swoon for another supernatural Scot!!!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher

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How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray – a Review

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How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray – a Review

 

How To School Your Scoundrel
A Princess in Hiding series – Book #3
by Juliana Gray
Release Date: June 3, 2014

How to School a Scoundrel

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BMM

 

Description:
Princess Luisa has devoted her life to duty, quietly preparing to succeed her father as ruler. Nothing, however, primed her to live on the run, disguised as a personal secretary to a notorious English scoundrel. The earl is just the man to help her reclaim her throne, but Luisa is drawn to her powerful employer in ways she never imagined…

Philip, Earl of Somerton, has spent six years married to a woman in love with another man—he refuses to become a fool due to imprudent emotions ever again. Only, as his carefully laid plans for vengeance falter, fate hands him hope for redemption in the form of a beautiful and determined young princess who draws him into a risky game of secrets, seduction, and betrayal. And while his cunning may be enough to save her life, nothing can save him from losing his heart


Review:
How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray is the 3rd book in her historical romance, A Princess in Hiding series. I very much enjoyed the first two books in this series, as Juliana Gray does a wonderful job in creating a fun storyline with a little bit of everything; romance, historical, mystery, danger, but above all the story had a lot of humor, and was joy to read.

A quick but spoiler free background on this series: Three princesses (Louisa, Stefanie and Emilie) find themselves targets in a deadly plot against the crown, that has already killed their father. Their uncle, the Duke of Olympia, puts together a plan to separate them in disguise, until it is safe.

This is Louisa’s story, as she is sent to the mansion of the Earl of Somerton, to be his assistant. What I love about these stories is the fun watching each of these young ladies in disguise, and how the hero of the book finds himself becoming somewhat attracted to them. Gray does this so well.

Somerton is our anti-hero, who comes across early on as ruthless, and arrogant. We met him in a previous series of Gray’s, and at that time he was an unlikely hero. Early on, when Louisa arrives to work for Somerton as Mr. Markham, we found ourselves not liking him. Somerton is in an unhappy marriage, as his wife of 6 years, pines for another man, and all he wants is revenge against the man in question. Louisa sympathizes with the wife and her young son, since Somerton is cruel, angry and mean to his wife, totally ignoring her. I personally thought he had every reason to feel this way. J

Somerton tests Mr. Markham, sending him on wild goose chases to ensure his loyalty. It is Markham to finds the proof for Somerton about his wife’s love of the other man. At this point, Somerton finds himself losing control, but it is Louisa who will help him see the light. . Eventually, in time, things will change and he will see the woman under the disguise.

Louisa visits often her “aunt” (Duke Olympia) to check up on her sisters, as it is Louisa who will become the ruler of the crown, and she is the one the traitors are trying to find and kill. She knows she needs someone powerful, like Somerton to help her reclaim her throne, not to mention she finds herself falling for him.

What follows is a wonderful romance, which you knew was coming, but totally took us by surprise as how great they were together. The fact that Gray can redeem someone like Somerton, who was a villain in a previous story, not to mention his unlikeability early on tells you how terrific a writer she is.

How to School a Scoundrel not only is a wonderful, sexy and fun romance, but it also an exciting mystery, with danger throughout that heads to a wild frenzied climax, with a few twists along the way. It was fun to see everyone from all three books come together to fight the enemy. I love Juliana Gray’s writing, as she creates wonderful couples, great secondary characters, and adds such fun humor to her stories. If you enjoy historical romances, with a little bit of mystery, sexy romance, and just simply a delightful read, then this book is for you.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Vampire Trouble by Sara Humphreys-Promotion and Giveaway

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Vampire Trouble by Sara Humphreys -Pre Order Promotion and Giveaway

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Pre Order: Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble /

About The Book: Release Date July 1, 2014

Shane Quesada, a four-century old vampire sentry, is known for cold, unemotional precision when hunting rogue vampires.

Maya Robertson is a youngling vampire who will not be controlled—and to prove it, she rejects Shane’s protection—only to find herself in over her head with an alpha werewolf.

Soon, a war between the coven and the werewolf clan ignites, and Maya and Shane flee to Louisiana, where their passion for each other grows—as does Maya’s power. When she finds herself at the center of the conflict, will she finally trust Shane with her life—and her heart?

 •••••••••••••••••••••••

special promotion

Vampire Trouble Special Pre-Order Gift! (US only)

Send proof of your pre-order of Vampire Trouble by Sara Humphreys (PUBLICATION DATE: July 1 2014) and Sourcebooks send you a special Dead in the City bookmark and an “I <3 #NYCVamps” button!

Sourcebooks will send these gifts to anyone who shows  their pre-order receipt until

June 30th, or supplies run out. Just email your e-receipt to

<mailto:casablanca@sourcebooks.com> casablanca@sourcebooks.com.

Additionally, everyone who sends SOURCEBOOKS their proof of pre-order will also be entered in a random drawing to win three necklaces just like the one Maya wears in Vampire Trouble. These necklaces will be given away as the preorders hit the 250, 750, and 1,000 preorder mark!

And if preorders hit the 2,000 mark, then one lucky entrant will receive a $200 gift card to Barnes & Noble!

About The Author Black and Blue

FOLLOW Sara: Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

Sara Humphreys

 

Sara has been a lover of both the paranormal and romance novels for years. Her sci-fi/fantasy/romance obsession began years ago with the TV Series STAR TREK and an enormous crush on Captain Kirk. That sci-fi obsession soon evolved into the love of all types of fantasy/paranormal; vampires, ghosts, werewolves, and of course shape shifters.

Sara is married to her college sweetheart, Will. They live in New York with their 4 boys and 2 insanely loud dogs. Life is busy but never dull.

Check our Sara’s Website for more details leading up to the release of Vampire Trouble, including more exclusives, and MUCH MORE of her fabulous paranormal romances!

The winners of the jewelry will be announced on Sara Humphreys’ Facebook page as we hit each threshold – so stay tuned!

 

giveaway

Tall Dark and Vampire smallSara and her publisher are offering a paper copy of TALL, DARK AND VAMPIRE (Dead in the City 1) by ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Like Sara Humphreys on Facebook

6. Giveaway is open to USA only.

7. Giveaway runs from June 11 to June 17, 2014

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Blessed are the Dead by Kristi Belcamino

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Blessed are the Dead by Kristi Belcamino

 

Blessed are the DeadAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
To catch a killer, one reporter must risk it all …

San Francisco Bay Area newspaper reporter Gabriella Giovanni spends her days on the crime beat, flitting in and out of other people’s nightmares, yet walking away unscathed. When a little girl disappears on the way to the school bus stop, her quest for justice and a front-page story leads her to a convicted kidnapper, Jack Dean Johnson, who reels her in with promises to reveal his exploits as a serial killer. But Gabriella’s passion for her job quickly spirals into obsession when she begins to suspect the kidnapper may have ties to her own dark past: her sister’s murder.

Risking her life, her job, and everything she holds dear, Gabriella embarks on a quest to find answers and stop a deranged murderer before he strikes again.

 

Review:
A police reporter for a small newspaper in San Francisco for seven years, Gabriella suffers from the hazards of meeting deadlines and blowing off boyfriends by default – breaking news/stories demand attention. Lamentable, yes, but Gabriella thrives under the pressure. When 8 year old Jasmine goes missing, and triggers Gabriella’s own nightmare (her sister was kidnapped and murdered 22 years ago), the suspect in custody reserves his attention and story only for Gabriella. *Goosebumps* Blessed are the Dead, written by Kristi Belcamino, is a compellingthriller about murder and survival. I was stunned to learn this was a debut novel – Belcamino was clearly meant to be a storyteller!

When Jack Dean Johnson is arrested, but refuses interviews with every reporter except for Gabriella, I could hear warning bells sounding from the pages. Gabriella was so focused on luring Johnson in, gaining his trust– she never considered he could have been involved in her sister’s disappearance. Sociopath that is, however, he won’t outright admit to nefarious behavior so Gabriella has to endure his nonsensical, twisted philosophies:

“I interpret the religion as a quest to find what makes me happy. It gives me permission to do what makes me righteously happy.”

“Even if it that involves hurting a child?”

“Yes,” he says without hesitation. He leans forward eagerly. “Buddhism allows me to find out about me and what makes me happy…

I don’t know much about Buddhism, but I know enough to realize this guy is twisting a peaceful religion into a justification for murder.

Warning, you will become incensed when you read their scenes. The very situations parents dread, and try carefully to avoid, are what Johnson’s spouting off as strategy. I don’t envy Ms. Belcamino’s research of this disturbing topic, but she wrote it deftly. Their dialogue will entice you, shock you, and keep you in suspense to the very end! When Johnson is too scheming to incriminate himself, Gabriella has to dig deeper and more depraved to appeal to his vanity (even while hiding her nausea when he references her sister):

I glance at my watch. I need something, anything new to put in the paper tomorrow if I want to keep my job. Then I hit on it – I can write a story about how the mind of a child predator works.

Now as dark as that particular psychology may be to write, Ms. Belcamino doesn’t skimp on the romance aspect. It’s here, and I swooned for Detective Sean Donovan. Aside from his good looks and smarts, he is recovering from a divorce, so you can imagine how reserved he must be. Not these two. Their attraction is so natural… it terrifies them. Ugh! You’d think that similar backgrounds would be a common, empathetic fit? More like a feat they can’t overcome.

Not only was the writing style vivid and intriguing, the tension and competition at the newsroom frenetic (fist-clenching reactions!), the investigative efforts palpable (you desperately want clues/leads to find Jasmine alive!), but Gabriella’s approach was just as unnerving – becoming a predator’s confidant! I had to pause several times to shake off the disturbing images.

When pressures mount and intense events begin to unfold, propelling Gabriella into a pseudo-vigilante role, the possibility of double jeopardy kept blaring at me, but was ignored in the book. I found this oversight jarring and would really like to know why it wasn’t addressed? On a personal note, having lived in Northern California, Belcamino’s description of North Beach and the surrounding communities of the Bay area were so spot-on; visualizing the locales enhanced my enjoyment of the read.

Blessed are the Dead was awesome from beginning to end. As deliriously happy as I was with the culmination of the story, and that life-affirming visit involving Sean, I did scream out in simultaneous torture. Now what?! Lol…I’ll tell you what: Blessed are the Meek, the next installment in the Gabriella Giovanni Mysteries is on sale July 8, 2014. I’d be blessed to receive an ARC! 🙂 Kristi Belcamino, consider me your fan!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publicist

 

About the author
Kristi Belcamino


Kristi Belcamino is a writer, artist and photographer who makes a tasty biscotti. Her first novel, BLESSED ARE THE DEAD, was inspired by her dealings with a serial killer during her life as a Bay Area crime reporter. Her work has appeared in such prominent publications as Salon, the Miami Herald, San Jose Mercury News, and Chicago Tribune. She now works part-time as a police reporter at the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

Find out more about Kristi at the following links:
Website /  Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads / Tumblr / Pinterest

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Fall From India Place (On Dublin Street #4) by Samantha Young-Review and Giveaway

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Fall From India Place (On Dublin Street #4) by Samantha Young-Review and Giveaway

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Fall From India Place
On Dublin Street #4
by Samantha Young
Genre: adult,contemporary,romance,erotic

Fall From India Place

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 3, 2014

When Hannah Nichols last saw Marco D’Alessandro five long years ago, he broke her heart. The bad boy with a hidden sweet side was the only guy Hannah ever loved—and the only man she’s ever been with. After one intense night of giving in to temptation, Marco took off, leaving Scotland and Hannah behind. Shattered by the consequences of their night together, Hannah has never truly moved on.

Leaving Hannah was the biggest mistake of Marco’s life—something he has deeply regretted for years. So when fate reunites them, he refuses to let her go without a fight. Determined to make her his, Marco pursues Hannah, reminding her of all the reasons they’re meant to be together….

But just when Marco thinks they’re committed to a future together, Hannah makes a discovery that unearths the secret pain she’s been hiding from him—a secret that could tear them apart before they have a real chance to start over again….

REVIEW: FALL FROM INDIA PLACE is the fourth full-length instalment in Samantha Young’s contemporary, adult, erotic On Dublin Street romance series focusing on a group of family and friends in Edinburgh, Scotland. This is American born Marco D’Alessandro and Hannah Nichols story- a second chance at love and a happily ever after.

When fourteen year old Hannah fell in love with Marco D’Alessandro she had no idea how far she would fall. At seventeen, Hannah professed her love to the only boy who would ever hold her heart but following their first sexual encounter, Marco pulled away and disappeared from Hannah’s life. Fast forward five years and an accidental meeting between Hannah and Marco would set off a storm of emotions and painful memories that Hannah had kept buried in the past. Betrayal, heartbreak, secrets and lost love would send Hannah spiraling out of control as Marco tries to prove that he is worthy of her love-once again.

The relationship between Hannah and Marco is destructive, gut wrenching and difficult. Marco knows that he made a mistake five years earlier but Hannah is not willing to accept anything beyond the moment and Hannah is not an easy character to love. This is a woman who will not forgive; will not forget; and refuses to acknowledge that both she and Marco suffered from the mistakes of the past and in this I had a difficult time accepting Hannah’s immature reaction and emotional tirades as though her feelings where the only ones that mattered. Five years had passed and life did a number on both Hannah and Marco but forgiveness was difficult for a woman who still loved the man that destroyed her heart and her soul. Hannah is not the only person suffering with pain and regret but she believes she is the only one that matters.

Samantha Young pulls the reader into a story where a moment in time has destroyed two people; where a painful secret would set the tone for one woman’s outlook on life; and where one man must make amends for something more than he could possibly know.

FALL FROM INDIA PLACE reunites all of the previous storyline characters and advances the series several months to a few years. There is humor, heartbreak, drama and passion for a couple that have lost and found one another against remarkable odds. Told from Hannah’s first person POV a good portion of the storyline is flashback and memories of what happened after Marco and Hannah’s one night together-the destructive nature of falling in love and letting go; the dissolution of the unknown; and the ability of the heart and the mind to move forward following the staggering realization that you are not alone.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Giveaway-Black and Fuscia

Samantha Young and her publisher Berkley are offering a paper copy of FALL FROM INDIA PLACE to one (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Giveaway is open to USA only.

6. Giveaway runs from June 10 to June 14, 2014

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Fire Rising (Dark Kings 2: Serial 1-4) by Donna Grant-a review

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Fire Rising (Dark Kings 2: Serial 1-4) by Donna Grant-a review

Fire Rising Serial

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Fire Rising Pt 1FIRE RISING Part 1
(Dark King Series)
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance, dragons, Fae, Druids
RELEASE DATE: May 13, 2014

$1.99 ebook: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

First in an exclusive four-part e-serial by New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant!Sammi’s world has been blown to bits—literally. With her pub up in flames, she escapes to Dreagan, the only place she will be safe. Her plan is to recover quickly and leave quietly. What she doesn’t count on is meeting the dangerously desirable and enigmatic Tristan…Tristan is instantly drawn to the woman seeking refuge at the Manor. Dazzled by her stunning beauty and intrigued by her silence about her past, Tristan knows he will not be able to let this woman go, no matter what the cost. And when Sammi slips away from Dreagan, Tristan is compelled to follow…in Fire Rising: Part 1.

REVIEW: FIRE RISING is the latest four part Dark King paranormal serial from author Donna Grant. The focus of the serial is on the continuing struggle of the Dark Kings (Dragons) with the one time King Ulrik and what now appears to be a possible association with the Dark Fae. The Dark Kings is a spinoff from Donna’s Dark Warrior series which in turn is a spin off from Donna’s Dark Sword series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland. Each novella is approximately 70-75 pages in length.

Part 1 introduces Sammantha (Sammi) who is Jane’s (mated to Dark King Banan) half sister and the potential mate to Tristan. When her best friend and her bar are destroyed in an explosion, Sammi finds herself on the run heading towards the only person she has left-Jane. What Sammi doesn’t know is that she has led Ulrik and the Dark Fae to the Dark Kings front door and for all intents and purpose-another war on the horizon. Centuries ago, Ulrik the Silver Dragon King was betrayed by a woman, and the other Dark Kings took it upon themselves to end her life but in doing so made an enemy of one of their own. This is the continuing battle between the Dark Kings and Ulrik –for revenge.

Because this instalment is only the first part of four, character development and background only hints at what is to come. The world building continues with the inclusion of the previous storyline characters from the Dark King series and the introduction of the potential new mate to another dragon King.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

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Fire Rising Pt 2FIRE RISING Part 2
(A Dark King Novel Serial)
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance, dragons, Fae, Druids
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 20, 2014

$1.99 ebook: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Continue the thrilling adventure with the second installment of Fire Rising by New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant!In Fire Rising: Part 2, it doesn’t take long for Sammi’s enemies to catch up to her. Running for her life in the mountains, she is rescued from a deadly fall by a powerful, alluring dragon. A dragon who, somehow, looks familiar. When she discovers her rescuer is none other than Tristan, Sammi cannot control her desire…Tristan knows he shouldn’t have revealed himself to Sammi, but saving her was more important than anything else. That is, until the mountain reserved for the mates of the Dragon Kings becomes his destination of choice.. Sammi being there feels right, and when his smoldering need for her catches flame, passion consumes them both.

REVIEW: FIRE RISING Part 2 is the second instalment in Donna Grant’s Dark King Novel serial focusing on the Dark Kings (Dragons) and the upcoming battle with one of their own. This is the continuing story of Sammi and Tristan. Donna brings together all three of her series including Dark Sword and Dark Warriors, and finds reunites two brothers in a struggle against good and evil.

Since Tristan’s return (from the dead) two years earlier as the newest Dark King, his memories from a previous life are triggered and there is only one possible reason for their return. Tristan must revisit his past and in doing so will set into motion more questions and concerns about the truth of his existence.

The back history of the Dark Kings is revisited as Tristan’s need for knowledge has him considering the truth about what really happened between Ulrik and the other Kings. But Sammi’s life is still in danger and it is beginning to look like more than one enemy faction has merged to take down the Dark Kings.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

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Fire Rising Pt 3FIRE RISING Part 3
(A Dark Kings Novel Serial)
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance, dragons, Fae, Druids
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 27, 2014

$1.99 ebook : Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Excitement and passion ignite in the third serial of Fire Rising by New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant.In Fire Rising: Part 3, Sammi is reeling after discovering that Tristan invaded her mind. Shocked that this is the same man—and dragon—that she trusted her heart and body to, Sammi runs, determined to not look back. But when she stumbles upon a dark secret of Tristan’s that shakes her to the very core, she knows she must forgive him if she is to love him…Tristan wasn’t expecting to come face-to-face with his past when he found Sammi. And with the Dark Fae closing in, he doesn’t have time to do anything other than fight for the one he loves…

REVIEW: FIRE RISING Part 3 is the third instalment in Donna Grant’s paranormal serial novella series focusing on the Dark Kings. This is the continuing story of Sammi and Dark King Tristan as they struggle with their attraction to one another and the impending war between the Dark Fae and one of their own.

In this instalment the Dark Kings,with the help of the Druids and Warriors from the previous series, will put a plan into action that will hopefully put an end to the upcoming battle. Using both Sammi, Tristan and Ian as bait, everything will go wrong when the Dark Fae emerge en masse to take down the Kings and those they love. With Sammi the target of the Dark Fae, Tristan must decide whether to be true to the Kings or join Ulrik in his war against the Dragons.

Donna Grant continues the world building of the Dark Kings. We get another glimpse at the world of the Dark Swords and Dark Warriors as they pull together with the Dark Kings to put an end to Ulrick’s reign of terror. This is a story of where one man realizes that the woman he has been pushing away is the one that has stolen his heart.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

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Fire Rising Pt 4FIRE RISING Part 4
(A Dark Kings Novel serial)
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance, dragons, Fae, Druids
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 3, 2014

$1.99 ebook: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

The thrilling conclusion to the stunningly sexy e-series Fire Rising by New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant!When Sammi is captured by the Dark Fae, Tristan’s heart is left shattered. Using every ounce of skill, wit, and brute strength, he must get her back, no matter how high the stakes are. Facing the enemy is a daunting task, but Sammi’s love is worth every risk…in Fire Rising: Part 4.

REVIEW: FIRE RISING part 4 is the fourth and final instalment in Donna Grant’s paranormal romance Dark Kings novella serial. When Sammi is captured by the Dark Fae, Tristan knows that to get back the love of his life, he must offer himself up in exchange-something Ulrik had been planning all along.

Donna Grant pulls the reader into the a life and death struggle where two women –Sammi and the Light Fae female Rhi- will find themselves literally in the dark. Tensions mount as time fast forwards knowing that both women will suffer horrendously at the hands of the Dark Fae. With all of the Dark Kings working together, Sammi will live to see another day but Rhi’s future may not be so bright.

FIRE RISING’S ensemble cast of Dark Kings and Dark Warriors (and Dark Swords) merges the world of three of Donna’s most popular series. We get another look at some of the couples we have grown to love as they work together to save a woman who may or may not be the mate to one of their own. While the Dark King’s rule Scotland and The Dark Fae rule Ireland we will see a centuries old détente begin to crumble as Ulrik seeks the retribution and revenge against the Dark Kings he once called friends. He will never forgive King Constantine for the destruction of the woman he loved-even though-she put the entire species at risk.

Donna reveals the cruel and dangerous workings of the Dark Fae-how they destroy the Light; the evil that has become of a once beloved Fae; and the possibility of losing Rhi to the Dark side. We watch as one of the Dark Kings-Kiril- goes under cover in Ireland to ferret out any insider information that can be used against a most powerful enemy and in doing so sets up the next storyline in the Dark Kings series-BURNING DESIRE.

Donna Grant weaves an intriguing, seductive and compelling story of action, suspense and romance: where the powerful dragon is at risk of losing his heart and his soul; and where the enemy becomes more powerful every day.

FIRE RISING will be released in novel format on June 3, 2014 with all four instalments available together in one book.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviews by Sandy

About the Author

donna_grant_new
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels and novellas spanning multiple genres of romance.

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

Her childhood dream was to become a professional ballet dancer and study under the amazing Mikhail Baryshnikov. Though she never got to meet Baryshnikov, she did make it to New York City and performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Later, Donna’s love of the romance genre and the constant stories running through her head prompted her to sit down and write her first book. Once that book was completed, there was no turning back.

Donna sold her first book in November 2005 while displaced from Hurricane Rita, a storm that destroyed portions of the Texas Gulf Coast. Since then, Donna has sold novels and novellas to both electronic and print publishers. Her books include several complete series such as Druids Glen, The Shields, Royal Chronicles, Sisters of Magic, Dark Sword, Dark Warriors, and her new series, Dark Kings.

Despite the deadlines and her voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two young children, four cats, three fish, and one long haired Chihuahua. She’s blessed with a proud, supportive husband who loves to read and travel as much as she does.

FOLLOW Donna Grant: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

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