Monthly Archives: September 2014

The Shadows of Stormclyffe Hall by Lauren Smith – a Review

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The Shadows of Stormclyffe Hall by Lauren Smith – a Review

 

The Shadows of Stormclyffe HallAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
To defeat a dark evil, they must face his family’s past…

Bastian Carlisle, the Earl of Weymouth, doesn’t believe in ghosts. Even though tragedy and mysterious hauntings have driven his family away from his ancestral home, Stormclyffe Hall, he is determined to restore the castle to its former glory. His plans are disrupted when a stubborn American shows up on his doorstep hoping to pry into his family’s tragic history.

Jane Seyton, an American graduate student, is convinced there’s more to the tragedy of Stormclyffe Hall than history claims. Ever the scholar, she is determined to discover the truth, even if it means putting up with the arrogant, yet sexy, Bastian.

Although Bastian wants nothing to do with the pushy American, it soon becomes clear that something evil is in the house—and that something is targeting both Jane and Bastian. The two must join forces to purge the ghosts of Stormclyffe Hall once and for all—even as they try to fight a physical attraction between them that grows more and more impossible to deny.

 

Review:

I had the pleasure of reading THE SHADOWS OF STORMCLYFFE HALL by Lauren Smith on a dark and stormy night. Lightning and thunder booming overhead greatly enhanced this reading experience! I would classify this novel as a modern gothic novel on par with the greats!

Bastian Carlisle, the Earl of Weymouth has returned to his family’s castle to restore it, even though the castle has only seen tragedy for the past two hundred years. Jane Seyton, an American graduate student has shown up on the castle’s doorsteps to finish her doctoral dissertation. She doesn’t admit to the arrogant Brit that she has been having nightmares about the castle for years.

Together, Bastian and Anya learn the secrets behind the evil that lurks in the hallways and the ghosts that appear to each of them! Bastian tries to make Jane leave, to protect her and his heart, but the castle needs both of them to defeat the curse.

I won’t give away too many spoilers, because everyone needs to experience the hair rising on their necks for themselves! I am a fan of this author and I love a good scare, but I have to say, I’m still questioning every noise I hear in the dark now! This novel is for the reader who loves the paranormal mixed with a hot romance!

Reviewed by Jules

Copy provided by Author

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Son of No One by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

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Son of No One by Sherrilyn Kenyon – a Review

 

Son of No One
Dark-Hunter (Hellchasers #6) series – Book # 24
by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Release Date: September 2, 2014

Son of No One

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

Description:
It’s not easy being life’s own personal joke, but Josette Landry has made an unstable peace with the beast. Completely down on her luck, Josette takes a job with a local paranormal group as a photographer and camerawoman. Yeah, they’re even crazier than she is. The only paranormal thing she believes in is the miracle that keeps her rusted out hoopty running. But when something truly evil is released into the world, they are forced to call in reinforcement.

From the moment Josette meets Cadegan, she knows something about him isn’t quite right. Mysterious and armed with lethal sarcasm, he seems a lot older than his age.

Centuries ago, Cadegan was viciously betrayed into an immortal prison by the only person he’d ever trusted. Forced against his will to do good, he hates everything in life. All he wants is a way out. But for the damned there is only eternal suffering. And yet there is something about Josette that intrigues him. Something he can’t seem to fight and the last time he felt this way about a woman, it cost him everything.

He knows he has to stay away from her, but the unleashed demon is hell bent on consuming her soul. If one more innocent is taken, he will be sent back to an unimaginable prison that makes his current hell look like paradise. But how can he keep her safe when his being with her is the greatest threat of all?

The Story Behind The Story
This is one of those books that had to be written. I’d just finished Styxx and was walking around trying to decide between Max, Remi and a thousand other characters. I toyed with a few ideas that just wouldn’t cement. Then, as I was working on Born of Fury…

Cadegan came and blew my mind. I scrapped the old ideas I’d been nurturing and immediately sat down and had to start gathering info on him. Everything he tells me, fascinates me more and the same for Josie. She’s hilarious. I had no idea… I love when I have no control over my people 🙂

 

Review;

Okay fellow Menyons and even non-Menyon’s if the synopsis and the tidbit about the story from Ms. Kenyon herself doesn’t make you want to read this latest installment to her DH series I don’t know what will. Well, maybe I can help you out with my review of Son of No One. 😉

I’m not worthy, I’m not worthy,..(bowing down to Ms. Kenyon). I don’t know how she does it, but once again Ms. Kenyon has managed to blow me away with another fantastical and imaginative story in Son of No One. In this one she introduces two completely new characters for our main couple, along with a host of new characters and creatures and a new realm. This new realm where our hero is imprisoned is part of her Avalon series, which had me a little worried since I haven’t read that series yet. However, have no fear, Ms. Kenyon seamlessly weaves the DH universe into that of the Avalon universe without breaking a sweat. It’s like the two series were always intertwined and no one is the wiser. Ms. Kenyon truly is a master at her craft and we see it here once again in Son of No One.

Our two new characters Cadegan and Josette are tossed together in this new realm and let me say I can plainly see just why Kenyon had to write their story. Cadegan is a wonderful character, totally swoon-worthy and a welcome addition to the DH family. Even though he’s a demon in his true form, and can pretty much end things as we know it, our Josette brings out the best in him and I couldn’t be happier. I loved everything about Cadegan, especially his Welsh accent and olden day speech that had my toes curling every time he spoke. What a sweet-heart he is with Josette, but word to the wise, don’t get on his bad side, he’s a rather scary demon. 😉 Josette, what can I say but another well rounded female heroine who had me laughing out loud many times, and applauding her heroism and never give up attitude. The way she would tease Cadegan about his age, and baffling him with her modern day lingo was just priceless, but she truly does love her demon and makes him want to be the man she deserves. I loved how she was able face his demon form, accept him for who and what he is, and won’t give up on him no matter what. What makes her believing in Cadegan all the more special, is the fact that she’s friends with Amanda Devereaux and company and always thought them to be paranormal wackos. She never believed in the paranormal, but once she met Cadegan, she had no choice and she dove right in head first(literally as she falls into a magical mirror) and never looked back. I loved the scenes with Cadegan, Josette and all her friends, some of my favourite scenes in the story.

Along with the new characters and realm, we also get the chance to see some of our old favourites; Ash, Styxx, Simi, Kyrian, Talon, Fang etc. Seeing some of my faves back again to help, and watching them interact and carry on had me laughing out loud. Kenyon brings her classic humour to these scenes which helps to lighten the mood and the severity of the problem at hand, even if it’s just for a few seconds. Styxx particularly had me howling with laughter as he’s talking with the group about living in this day and age and how it hasn’t driven him to go running through the streets naked yet. LOL!!! I’m still LOL’ing over that scene as I type this review. As our group of past favourites try to figure out a way to help Cadegan and Jossette, Kenyon continues to reveal little bits of information regarding the evil that’s coming, which was mentioned in Styxx’s book, along with making reveals about Thorn(never saw this one coming) and Max the dragon who lives in the attic at Sanctuary. Which as you know I’m not telling cause I don’t like to play the spoil sport. If you want to know this ‘didn’t see that one coming’ reveal, then you will just have to read the book for yourselves. ;-p Keep in mind that the publicity surrounding this book has been dubbed; The Dragons will Rise in 2015, so maybe I’ve given a little hint regarding one of the reveals in Son of No One. 😉

Now in proper Kenyon fashion she of course does answer questions that she left us hanging with in previous books, but now thanks to the addition of Cadegan and Jossette, the two reveals(Max and Thorn), new realms and the return of our favourite Gallu demon Kessar to stir up yet more trouble, we are left with more questions and head scratching. I swear I’m going to either go completely white or bald from reading this series thanks to Ms. Kenyon and her trickery and mastery in storytelling. Just when I think I’ve figured something out, I turn the page and bam, my jaw drops over some other tidbit she’s revealed. I swear I never get tired of reading the DH series and I know I never will. If Ms. Kenyon continues to write and create worlds, characters, humour and action scenes like the ones in Son of No One I will forever keep coming back for more. I for one can’t wait till next year when Dragonbane, the next installment in this arc comes out.

Until next time my fellow Menyons, happy reading!!  

Reviewed by Marcie

 

 

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Pulled Within by Marni Mann – Review & Giveaway

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Pulled Within by Marni Mann – Review & Giveaway

 

Pulled Within Banner

 

Pulled Within
Bar Harbor series – Book #2
by Marni Mann
Release Date: September 12, 2014

Pulled WithinAmazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / BAM

DESCRIPTION
Storms can’t last forever…can they?

For five long years, Rae Ryan has lived in a storm over which she has no control. Little by little, everything has been taken away from her—her job, her relationship, her best friend and her home. Plagued by nightmares and a terrible family secret, she carries her scars as much on the inside as she does on the outside.

Hart Booker, another disappointment from her past, returns to Bar Harbor and shelters her from the rain. He reminds Rae that forgiveness is possible, happiness can be found on the other side of darkness, and beauty rests beneath her scars. But a sinister figure lingering in the background seems determined to pull Rae back into a past she’s been trying to outrun. Can she survive the storm and become part of the light she so desperately desires? Or is she destined to remain

Pulled Within?

 

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Stripped to the bone, raw and emotionally exhausted. Just a few words to describe a Marni Mann experience. There are only a handful of authors that I have read that are capable of leaving me so completely spent but so satisfied .. well folks .. Marni Mann is one of them! Every single book of hers that I have read has taken me by surprise in one way or another and this read is no exception.

The second book of her Bar Harbor series, Pulled Within is about Rae and Hart. We met Rae in the first book and I was pleased that she was getting her story as she is a character that you knew had a deep past. Scarred in more ways than one, she has demons upon demons, is down on her luck, has an ex with a new love and just trying to keep it together day to day. Then another ex and the contributor to her pain comes back into the picture. This time however, he wants to help her heal.

Hart is another deep character but with him comes retribution and light. He knows how he contributed to Rae’s pain and does everything in his power to knock down her defences and force her to trust. He is patient and kind but also gives Rae the kind of love she needs .. be it sweet and tough. He brings reality and truth to the table and while he appreciates how wrong he did by her, he forces them to move forward.

If you are looking for a sweet, kind read you will find that here! You will also find heart break, angst, abuse, language etc … you will walk away from a well thought out, perfectly paced novel that you will not forget. Be prepared to go on one heck of a ride though, and you may also find yourself relating to these characters in more ways than one.

Well done Marni Mann. You consistently deliver, and just when I think I have you figured out, you go and take me in a different direction. You are one talented lady and you sure know how to use your words!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel

Copy provided by Publisher

 

About The Author
Marni MannBest-selling Author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Mann was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotion. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida with her husband and their two dogs who subsequently have been characters in her books. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling to new locations, and devouring fabulous books.

 

GiveawayMarni’s Publisher is offering an e-copy of PULLED BENEATH (1st book in series) 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 

4. LIKE us on Twitter

5. LIKE us on GOODREADS 

6. Like Marni Mann FACEBOOK

7. Giveaway is open Internationally

8. Giveaway runs from September 21- 26, 2014

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Burning Desire (Dark Kings 3) Parts 1-4 by Donna Grant-a review

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Burning Desire (Dark Kings 3) Parts 1-4 by Donna Grant-a review

Burning Desire 1-4

BURNING DESIRE -the complete storyline- will be released September 30, 2014

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

Reviewing a storyline in serial format is difficult without giving away too many spoilers or sounding repetitive with each instalment. As the storyline builds, each episode reveals a little bit more information as well as the continued growth of the hero and heroine-their relationship and their love. And because each portion, in and of itself, is not a complete storyline it is difficult at times to be selective with the information passed along.

Because BURNING DESIRE continues the Dragon Kings storylines, the series should be read in order. Most of the characters from the previous storylines, and the original series and spinoff play a secondary role throughout. 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.

•••••••••••••••••••

BURNING DESIRE Part 1 by Donna Grant

Release Date: September 9, 2014

The Dark Kings have fought for centuries to preserve their dragon magic. But can one warrior resist the greatest temptation of all. . .?In Burning Desire: Part 1 by Donna Grant, Kiril is dark, dangerous and powerful and when he heads to Ireland to uncover Dark Fae secrets, he isn’t the least bit surprised that the Dark are using one of their own to spy on him in return.

But he is deeply intrigued by this sexy, alluring woman who is perilous in more ways than one…Shara needs to be get back into her family’s good graces after committing an near-unforgivable offense and if bringing a Dragon King to his knees is how she must do it, she will use every trick she has up her sleeve to snare him. But she is unprepared for the intense desire that he brings to life within her. A burning desire they both seem unable to escape…

REVIEW: BURNING DESIRE part 1 focuses on the introduction of  Dragon King Kiril to Shara-a Dark Fae whose family has no objections to killing one of their own. Following six hundred years imprisoned by her own family Shara has been ordered by her brother to seduce and bring home King Kiril and in doing so will live to see another day. The Dragon Kings have a secret and the Dark Fae are willing to destroy everything to ensure they are the ones who will hold the magic and power. As Shara begins her seduction of Kiril, Kiril soon realizes that there is more to Shara than a one night stand. As Kiril continues his search in Ireland for information about the whereabouts of the missing Light Fae Rhi, Rhi’s torture at the hands of the Dark Fae brings her closer to the other side.

Part 1 introduces the players in Donna Grant’s Burning Desire. We learn a little more about Shara’s family dynamics and what it means to be one of the Dark Fae. The tension and anxiety between Shara and her family shows that blood means nothing when the promise of greater power is at stake. There is also heartbreak for Rhi as her fate with the Dark Fae slowly tears away at the fabric of her Light and her soul.

__________________________________

BURNING DESIRE Part 2 by Donna Grant

Release Date: September 16, 3014

Even though he knows he should keep his distance, Kiril is falling hard for Shara. But when Shara uncovers what Kiril has been looking for all along, she is faced with a choice—hide the information from him? Or tell him the truth, even if it means death should her family learn what she’s done? As overwhelming desire builds between them, Shara knows she cannot lie to the one who has captured her, body and soul. Kiril knows he shouldn’t trust this Dark Fae who is slowly learning all his secrets, but as they are drawn closer together, he is unable to resist her…

REVIEW: BURNING DESIRE part 2 finds Kiril still deep in Dark Fae territory. King of  Kings leader Con (Constantine) tries desperately to bring Kiril home but Kiril has made a promise to himself to find Rhi. There is also the matter of the Dark Fae female Shara who has been on his mind day and night. With a war on the horizon between the Dark Fae and the Dragon Kings, Kiril is hoping to gather information about who is behind the release of information regarding the Dragons but he finds himself focusing on Shara more than his task. Shara has found Rhi but it may cost her more than she is willing to give.

Part 2 uncovers a little more history about the Dark Fae and their possible connection to the Dragon’s demise. Donna Grant continues her fast paced storyline with a little suspense and mystery, and the possibility that two men are after Shara’s heart but only one will be the keeper of her soul.

__________________________________

BURNING DESIRE part 3 by Donna Grant

Release Date: September 23, 2014

A DESIRE THIS POWERFUL in his quest to destroy the Dark Fae—his nemesis—the Dragon King known as Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy. When a gorgeous, mysterious woman tries to seduce him, Kiril instantly sees through her glamour to the Dark Fae beneath. Shara isn’t just any Dark; she’s from one of the most powerful bloodlines—and despite the dangers, Kiril can’t stay away from her. He’s enthralled by her smile, enslaved by the undeniable passion…IS A WAR WORTH FIGHTING FOR Shara has one chance to make things right with her family—and to prove her worth. It seemed like such an easy mission…until she actually meets Kiril. His charm, his sexual magnetism is too much for her to ignore. Shara knows that falling into Kiril’s arms can bring her nothing but trouble. Yet she discovers an inner strength she didn’t know she had…and an attraction that knows no bounds. But is her desire for Kiril worth the risk of eternal doom for them both?

REVIEW:  BURNING DESIRE Part 3 is another fast paced instalment that moves the story into the hidden Fae realm where Kiril and Phalen begin their search for Rhi. Not only do they encounter what is left of Rhi but Kiril knows that his time is limited as it pertains to Shara’s safety. Shara’s involvement has been discovered and she too is at risk for a tormented future but has she betrayed Kiril and set the Dragon Kings up for capture? As the Dragon Kings begin their search for Kiril, Kiril finds himself caught in the Fae realm with the possibility of no hope for escape.

Part 3 reveals a little more about the relationship between the King of Dragon Kings Constantine and his fellow Kings. Theirs is a relationship built out of respect but one that begins to question Con’s need for revenge against the King of the Silver Dragons.

__________________________________________

BURNING DESIRE Part 4 by Donna Grant

Release Date: September 30, 2014

Burning Desire: Part 4 by Donna Grant concludes. One epic battle and daring escape later, and Kiril is back safe with the Dragon Kings, but the ache he feels for Shara is overwhelming. He could never expect her to leave her family. But Shara was always a Fae full of surprises—and as their love burns brighter and hotter, Kiril knows she is destined to stand beside him through the ages.

REVIEW:  BURNING DESIRE part 4 see the culmination of Kiril’s search for Rhi and his desire for Shara. As the Dragon Kings risk their lives looking for Rhi, information about a Dragon King aligning the with Dark Fae has everyone on edge. Has Ulrick regained some of his power or is one of their own siding with the Dark?

__________________________________

Donna Grant’s BURNING DESIRE is a storyline of betrayal, adventure, romance and love. It is a story about destructive family dynamics, the healing nature of love, and the ongoing war between the Dragon Kings and one of their own. The Dragon Kings have something the Dark Fae want but only Constantine-the King of Kings-knows the truth about the who and what.

A little more about Rhi’s storyline is revealed. We know she has a deeper connection to the Dragon Kings- a love that was shattered thousands of years before-but we are still no closer to the identification the man who broke her heart although the storyline does dance around the possibility.

Copies supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed 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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Raced (Driven Series) by K. Bromberg-Review and Release Week Blitz

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Raced (Driven Series) by K. Bromberg – Review and Release Week Blitz

Raced

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ KOBO / iTunes

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 15, 2014

The Colton Points of View Collection

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author K. Bromberg comes a companion novella to the Driven Trilogy (Driven, Fueled, and Crashed). This novella is a compilation of reader requested scenes from the series retold through the eyes of Colton Donavan.

Colton Donavan lived life in the fast lane, but it took Rylee Thomas to teach him what racing was all about.

Arrogant, Rogue, Broken, Conceited, Dirty-Talking, Rebel, Egomaniacal, Voodooed, Bent, Reckless

You think you know me?

Think again.

*Raced is not a complete re-write of the Driven Trilogy. This companion explores pivotal scenes as well as some new ones written in Colton Donavan’s point of view that were not previously published in Driven, Fueled, and Crashed. Hear his thoughts, experience his inner-turmoil, and laugh with him on his journey as he overcomes his demons and accepts what it means to love.

This novella is for the devoted readers of the Driven series. It is recommended that this companion be read after Driven, Fueled, and Crashed.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: RACED is the companion novella to K. Bromberg’s wildly successful Driven Trilogy focusing on billionaire race-car driver Colton Donavan and the love of his life Rylee Thomas. The book is written from Colton’s POV and covers some of the timeline throughout the Driven Trilogy.

K. Bromberg takes the reader into the mind of Colton Donavan. We are privy to his private thoughts, his anxiety, his needs and his desires. Colton’s past has formed the man that he is today and we are up close and personal with the demons that have all but destroyed his mind. Colton is a man possessed, who believes he is not worthy of love or affection, and a man who is on a path of destruction from where there may be no return.

K. Bromberg introduces each new chapter with a bit of history and explanation as to why she chose that particular scenario. Some reasoning includes a better understanding of Colton’s mindset at the time or the introduction of a completely new scene that was never written because the original trilogy is told from Rylee’s POV. From emotional rants to pages of self-debasing, Colton is a man who wants and needs Rylee like the air that he breathes but he believes he will destroy her faith and her love. He continually pushes away the woman that he loves because he is too frightened to admit that his need for Rylee may be stronger than her love for him.

The storyline is heavy with graphic language and profanity-almost stereotypical and clichéd of the male species. As the author has explained, DRIVEN is not a complete re-write from Colton’s POV but addresses specific plot points and events throughout the trilogy. Colton’s one –on-one time with his best friend Beck reveals a bromance, of sorts, with the man who will soon get a story of his own.

If you are a fan of K. Bromberg’s DRIVEN Trilogy then RACED is a revealing addition to the series. RACED is not a stand alone storyline-the DRIVEN series must be read in order to understand the significance of the outtakes and Colton’s POV throughout the novella. The DRIVEN series is about a tragic hero; a man whose public persona hides a past mired in abuse, devastation and such low self esteem that even his heroes have a difficult time finding their way to save a little boy when he needs them the most.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight Black and White

 

Driven
Driven #1
by K. Bromberg
Release Date: May 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Order Links:  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Barnes and Noble

DrivenRylee Thomas is used to being in control. But she’s about to meet the one man that just might make her enjoy losing it…

I am the exception to the rule.

In a world full of willing women, I’m a challenge to the roguish and achingly handsome Colton Donavan. A man used to getting exactly what he wants in all aspects of life. He’s the reckless bad boy constantly skating that razor thin edge toward out of control, on and off of the track.

Colton crashes into my life like a tornado: sapping my control, testing my vulnerabilities beyond their limits, and unintentionally penetrating the protective wall around my healing heart. Tearing apart the world I rebuilt so carefully with structure, predictability, and discipline.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

Fueled
Driven #2
by K. Bromberg
Release Date: August 27, 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, adult

Order Links: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble

Fueled CoverWhat happens when the one person you never expected suddenly happens to be the one you’ll fight the hardest to keep?

Colton stole my heart. He wasn’t supposed to, and I sure as hell didn’t want him to, but he crashed into my life, ignited feelings within me that I thought had died forever, and fueled a passion that I never knew could exist.

Rylee fell out of that damn storage closet and into my life. Now I don’t think I’ll ever be the same. She’s seen glimpses of the darkness within me, and yet she’s still here. Still fighting for me. She is without a doubt the saint, and I am most definitely the sinner.

How is it the one thing neither of us wanted—neither of us anticipated that fateful night—has us fighting so hard to keep?

••••••••••••••••••••

Crashed
Driven #3
by K. Bromberg
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: March 3, 2014

 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk  / KOBO /

Crashed-AmazonWhen life crashes down around us, how hard are we willing to fight for the one thing we can’t live without, each other?

Life is full of moments.

Big moments.

Little moments.

And none of them are inconsequential.

Every single moment prepares you for that one instance that defines your life. You must overcome all your fears, confront the demons that chase you, and cleanse the poison that clings to your soul or you risk the chance of losing everything.

Mine started the minute Rylee fell out of that damn storage closet. She made me feel. Made me whole when all I thought I could ever be was incomplete. Became the lifeline I never knew I needed. Hell yes, she’s worth the fight…but how do you fight for someone you know you don’t deserve?

Love is full of ups and downs.

Heart stopping highs.

Soul shattering lows.

And none of them are insignificant.

Love is a racecourse of unexpected twists and turns that must be negotiated. You have to break down walls, learn to trust, and heal from your past in order to win. But sometimes it’s the expected that’s the hardest to hold on to.

Colton has healed and completed me, stolen my heart, and made me realize our love’s not predictable nor perfect—it’s bent. And bent’s okay. But when outside factors put our relationship to the test, what lengths will I have to go to prove to him that he’s worth the fight?

Whoever said love is patient and love is kind, never met the two of us. We know our love is worth it—have acknowledged that we were meant to be—but when our pasts crash into our future, will the repercussions make us stronger or break us apart?

 

Driven Series

____________________

excerpt

 

I raise my head and look into her eyes. Last chance, Ryles. Escape while you can. But she stands her ground, unwavering, accepting of the warning in my eyes and the dominance in my stance.
“Come.” God help me because when all is said and done, I think I’m going to need it to walk away from her. She bites her bottom lip to stop it from quivering. Even she knows I’m inviting her into the lion’s den.
I give her a soft smile, pretending I can’t see the vulnerability in her eyes, ignoring it as I draw her further in … and that makes me even worse of a man than I already thought.
We walk, desire leading us and desperation owning our thoughts. I think I mumble an explanation that I have a room, but I’m not sure because my thoughts are consumed by every single thing about her. Fucking consumed when I’ve never been this way before.
I usher her into the elevator, unlock the penthouse all the while my dick is begging me to push the red button, halt the elevator right here, right now and take her on the floor. Feed the greed and be done with her.
Return to familiar ground and be the asshole I know that I am.

 

 

About The Author Black and White

FOLLOW: Facebook/ Goodreads/ Website/ Twitter

K. Bromberg New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author K. Bromberg is that reserved woman sitting in the corner who has you all fooled about the wild child inside of her—the one she lets out every time her fingertips touch the computer keyboard.

K. lives in Southern California with her husband and three children. When she needs a break from the daily chaos of her life, you can most likely find her on the treadmill or with Kindle in hand, devouring the pages of a good, saucy book.

On a whim, K. Bromberg decided to try her hand at this writing thing. Her debut novels, Driven, Fueled, and Crashed of The Driven Trilogy were well received and went on to become multi-platform bestsellers as well as landing on the New York Times and USA Today lists. Her other works include a short story, UnRaveled, and a companion piece to The Driven Trilogy titled Raced. She is currently working on two stand alones, Slow Burn and Sweet Ache, as well as an untitled novella to the Driven Series.

 

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

In addition: K. Bromberg will be hosting a contest on her Facebook author page. On Sunday September 14, K. Bromberg will post a cover image of RACED and any reader who changes their profile picture to the RACED image and then types ‘done’ in the Facebook comments beneath her post, , will be in the running for several signed paperbacks of RACED to be chosen at random at the end of the week. The important thing to note is that when K. Bromberg picks the winners on Saturday, their profile picture must still be the Raced Cover Image in order to win.

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King’s Daughter by M.A. Abraham – Review & Giveaway

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King’s Daughter by M.A. Abraham – Review & Giveaway

 

King's Daughter Banner

King’s Daughter
Elven Chronicales series.- Book #6
by M.A. Abraham
Release Date: September 20, 2014

King's DaughterAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Smashwords

Description:
A flicker of eye contact is all King Liessen needs to know he has met his Life Mate and he realizes he knows her, not personally but through prior missions they have completed together. The biggest surprise comes with the knowledge that she is Garoldth’s daughter. The second surprise comes when he finds she is waking emotions he thought himself incapable of feeling. In the past, he laughed at the possessiveness of male Life Mates, but he quickly realized they were mild in comparison and how close he wants to keep his.

Aredhel didn’t notice the Dark King Liessen standing beside Daroth. She has always held men in contempt, only willing to acknowledge them if they deserved it. So why is this male different? Why does he make her heart skip a beat whenever he comes near? She doesn’t have time for this. She needs to stay focused. She is on a mission and it doesn’t include an Elf with a bad reputation.

 

 

Review:

King’s Daughter by M.A. Abraham is the 6th book in her wonderful Elven Chronicles series. We knew from the last book that the rescue mission was on for King Garoldth’s brother being held a prisoner by Demons for over a thousand years. Garoldth’s daughter, Aredhel has already begun her own rescue, before Lothrariel, Rotheil and Eol, with the Elven warriors on their way. It is the Dark King Liessen who has been secretly following Aredhel from a distance, to protect her, as she is his Life Mate.

These demons are very powerful, wizards, who have captured and tortured the prisoner all these years. Just when Aredhel makes a rare mistake, and gets herself captured, Liessen has to reveal himself to save her. By then, Lothrariel and the others have come to help rescue both of them

What follows is an exciting adventure, with a lot of humor to lessen the tension. Aredhel has no interest in men, especially a lifemate. Liessen, at first forces his attentions on her, and despite her determination not to get involved, she finds herself attracted to him. Before we go to the exciting adventure, I do have to say I was not a fan of Liessen early on. They were in the midst of a dangerous war, and all he could think of was bedding his lifemate, forcing his attention on her. That did change a bit later, when Aredhel recognized that she is bonded to him. But early on he kind of annoyed me. Aredhel is a warrior, one Gabriel’s female elites, and though Liessen admired her, he wanted Aredhel to become his Queen, and not be the warrior she was. Another somewhat annoying macho attitude

The rescue attempt was very exciting, with lives on the line often. Besides Aredhel, Liessen being in danger, the other elven warriors, including  Lothrariell, Eol were also in deep in those dark caves. What the demons did to the prisoners was horrific. It will take all the power and magic of these Elves to hope to rescue the prisoner and survive.

During those tense moments, it was Eol who always made us laugh and lighten the moment. M.A. Abraham gives us a wonderful exciting and tense storyline that will require the survival of the fittest. This was a somewhat different type of story, and very well done. M.A. Abraham has an uncanny ability to blend humor in her stories that will make you laugh, even when you are in the midst of extreme intense situations. If you are reading the Elven Chronicles, you must read King’s Daughter, as it is one of the best, though a bit darker.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

 

giveaway

M.A. is graciously offering an e-copy of KING’S DAUGHTER to TWO (2) 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

5. LIKE us on GOODREADS 

6. LIKE M.A. Abraham on FACEBOOK

7. Giveaway is open Internationally

8. Giveaway runs from September 20-23, 2014

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Immortal Obsession by Linda Thomas-Sundstrom: Review and Interview with the Author

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Immortal Obsession by Linda Thomas-Sundstrom: Review and Interview with the Author

Immortal Obsession

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 1, 2014

As her Protector, he was bound to oblige her every desire.
A rogue group of human-hating vampires have overtaken London. But the elite immortals who own much of the city may have found the key to protecting their territory: Madison Chase, an American newscaster investigating a story about missing teenagers. If she can convince someone to help her infiltrate the dangerous faction, she just might stem the bloodletting and find her brother in time….
St. John can’t escape his dark family legacy. But the instincts that keep him from being fully human also make him the rogues’ worst enemy. His desire for the ethereal redhead is immediate, all-consuming—and forbidden. And as the investigation escalates, Madison must discover if St. John is her trusted Protector—or if she’s being seduced by a monster.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: IMMORTAL OBSESSION is the latest instalment in Linda Thomas-Sundstrom’s Vampire Moons adult, contemporary, paranormal romance series focusing on the Immortal Seven-descended from the originals and protectors of the golden chalice. This is Immortal Christopher St. John and American news anchor Madison Chase’s storyline. Although IMMORTAL OBSESSION is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty. Linda Thomas-Sundstrom weaves background information and the history of the immortal/vampire into the storyline so that we are acquainted with different factions of the supernatural lore.

The storyline follows Madison Chase as she searches for her missing twin brother, last known whereabouts in London, England searching for the mythological vampire of lore. Madison knew her brother was determined to prove the existence of vampires but what she found was the story of nightmares. Enter Christopher St. John a man who professes to be Madison’s protector but a man who is definitely part of the supernatural race. Christopher suspects that Madison’s brother may be in over his head, but he never suspected the betrayal from one of his own.

The relationship between Madison and Christopher is one of immediate attraction. Christopher is drawn to Madison like a moth to a flame but there is something about the American newscaster that is dark and deadly. The sex scenes are intimate, sensual, and heated with lust and desire. There is no denying that Madison wants Christopher but is she compelled towards the man or is it of her own volition?

The secondary characters are as dark and dangerous as are most immortals. We are introduced to the most deadliest of night creatures as well as get up close and personal with a child of the moon.

IMMORTAL OBSESSION is an intense and passionate storyline where reality meets fantasy; where betrayal is an act of destruction; where romance draws two people together regardless of their DNA or purpose in life. Linda Thomas-Sundstrom pulls the reader into a dark world of the supernatural one storyline at a time.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview

TRC: Hi Linda and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of IMMORTAL OBSESSION.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Linda: Goodreads / Website / Facebook

Linda Thomas SundstromLinda: I’m a teacher by day and a writer by night, and always wanted to do both of those things. I guess you could say I followed my bliss. I live in the West on a big stretch of land, and have a great family, as well as a very nice Muse. I thank my lucky stars every day that I’m this happy.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Linda: I spring from a family of story-tellers. Friday night by the fire sort of stuff where we had to make things up… most of them scary. My mother is an artist at heart, and my dad could really get us going on long car trips across the west, with stories about phantom lights and diners that refused to die along old section of Route 66. All of this was prime inspirational fodder for a writer of the paranormal kind. *smiley face*.

TRC: When not writing what do you do to relax?

Linda: Oh gosh. I don’t relax. That’s the truth. I don’t take time to smell the roses these days… but plan to in the near future.

Immortal ObsessionTRC: IMMORTAL OBSESSION is the latest adult, contemporary, paranormal release in your Vampire Moons series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Linda: Having studied ancient lore in college, I became fascinated with the Aurthurian Tales, and had questions. Like… why Lancelot was so beautiful and undefeated in battle? What made Galahad so special? So… in my Vampire Moons series, I took seven knights from the Round Table, and gave them a history. They were unearthly beautiful because they were unearthly. Seven knights chosen for a secretive, very specific task having to do with the Holy Grail, that brings them up to our world, in the current time.

Each Blood Knight has his own book. In Immortal Obsession, my latest, we meet Christopher St. John in London… and meet the woman who challenges his long-held vows.

TRC: Will each of the ‘Immortal Seven’ have a storyline?

Linda: Yes. In the full Nocturne books, it’s Lance Van Baaren in Golden Vampire. Mason LanVal in Guardian of the Night. Christopher St. John in Immortal Obsession.

TRC: Do you believe that each of the instalments can be read as a stand alone or should the storylines be read in order?

Linda: Each book is stand-alone. Readers can pick up any one of these books and catch a hint of the background of the Blood Knights. Their goals are the same. Their vows are the same. They have long ago separated as a force and are spread around the globe, and we find them in different countries.

TRC: Does the Vampire Moons series overlap with the Wolf Moons series and if so how important is the information found within each series as it pertains to one another?

Linda: The Wolf Moons series (another book comes out in February) is its own beast. The two series don’t mix… though Weres always make an appearance in my Vampire Moons books. I do get quite a lot of mail asking to tell Stan’s story (you’ll find him in Golden Vampire).

TRC: If you could virtually cast the leading characters – Christopher St. John and Madison Chase -which actors or models best represents your ideal image?

Linda: Amy Adams for the fiery Madison Chase. Lee Pace with light hair for St. John. (Loved him as an arrogant elf in the Hobbit movies!)

TRC: Will Madison’s brother Stewart get his own storyline and if so, do you see ‘redemption’ for his character?

Linda: No story for Stewart in the works. The Vampire Moons books center on the original Blood Knights. Sorry, Stew!

TRC: What do you think is the appeal of the paranormal vampire/werewolf series in the genre of romance storylines?

Linda: Love that goes against the odds, and survives. Major conflict, not only of storyline, but in the mixing of species = pairing normal mortals with not-quite-so-normal Others. I just love writing about that.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular series?

Linda: None to speak of, really, I’m happy to say. I had quite extensively studied about the Holy Grail, so creating the SEVEN and giving them a background that answers the questions I had about the Aurthurian Tales was like manna from above. A true writer adventure.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Linda: I’m in charge of the strings, though the characters have a say in their own lives, and often take me to surprising places. For Nocturne, I turn in an outline/overview of about 12-16 pages. Within the actual writing phase, however, anything goes. *insert another smiley face here*

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Linda: I believe that writers have to be fully invested in what we’re writing. If this happens, we’re right there, not only creating but experiencing every moment. It’s fairly easy to tell when a writer is just trying to get something done, versus being what I call “in the zone.” The Zone is a gift that doesn’t always happen, in truth, and that’s the challenge we strive for. I call this “Telling the Truth.”

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Linda: Write lots more books. Take some time to smell the Roses. Meet new readers who connect with what I have to say, in the way I have to say it. Keep my family happy. (Not necessarily in that order).

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Linda: Hey, secrets are secrets…. *wink*.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Linda: I just turned in another Wolf Moons 2 book, will be getting edits any day now on February 2015’s Wolf Born, and have started writing an Urban Fantasy.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Linda: Thanks for hosting me here, Reading Café. What a blast! I’d love to meet all of you reading this, and connect. Please see what I’m up to on my web site: http://www.lindathomas-sundstrom.com and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaThomasSundstrom

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite TV Show = Game of Thrones

Last Movie You Saw = Guardians of the Galaxy

Dark or Milk Chocolate = Dark

Secret Celebrity Crush = Lee Pace

Last Vacation Destination = Hawaii

Do you have any pets? = not at this time

Pet Peeve = messy offices (mine)

TRC: Thank you Linda for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

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Second Chance Ranch (Hope Springs) by Cindi Madsen-a review

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SECOND CHANCE RANCH (Hope Springs #1) by Cindi Madsen-a review

Second Chance RanchABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date: September 15, 2014

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

Sometimes love is right where you left it.

Sadie Hart has a plan: return to her small town of Hope Springs so she can regain her confidence—and bank account—before giving one more shot to her country music dream. The dream that means more to her than anything. The dream she chose over her high school sweetheart, the brooding and sinfully handsome Royce Dixon.

Royce has moved on from his memories of the beautiful Sadie. Now he’s focused solely on running Second Chance Ranch, where he rehabilitates troubled teens through ranch work. But when he needs a new employee and Sadie’s the only one to volunteer, he has no choice but to offer his old flame a job.

Whether riding a horse with the wind in her hair or mucking out the stalls, Sadie can still get Royce’s heart beating like no one else. But Nashville is her dream, and Royce can’t settle for second best.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SECOND CHANCE RANCH is the first instalment in Cindi Madsen’s contemporary Hope Springs romance series focusing on the people of Hope Springs, Wyoming. This is Royce Dixon and country singer Sadie Hart’s second chance storyline.

The premise follows Sadie and Royce as they dance around their attraction to one another. With her country music career floundering Sadie returns home to Hope Springs where she will find a job working at The Second Chance Ranch for at-risk teens. Royce Dixon, her high school sweetheart and former lover is the owner and manager of the Second Chance Ranch and Sadie is hoping to rekindle their relationship-if only for a short time.

The attraction between our leading couple has never wavered. Six years earlier Royce asked Sadie for her hand in marriage but Sadie had dreams of making it big in Nashville. Broken hearted, Royce has never forgotten about Sadie but seeing her again brings back too many painful memories. He knows Sadie is only in town for a short time but isn’t prepared to lose his heart all over again.

SECOND CHANCE RANCH is a sweet storyline about a second chance at love for two people who have never stopped loving one another. There is no foul language or graphic sex (only implied) ;there is a little bit of romance and a rekindling of a friendship. The secondary characters include some of the teens at Second Chance Ranch as well as both Royce and Sadie’s family.

If you like a quick, romantic read with no cliffhanger, and a happily ever after, Second Chance Ranch by Cindi Madsen is for you.

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

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