Monthly Archives: September 2014

The Lover’s Secret / The Lover’s Game (No Exceptions #1 & 2) by J.C.Reed-Reviews

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The Lover’s Secret / The Lover’s Game (No Exceptions #1 & #2) by J.C.Reed-Reviews and Giveaway

 

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The Lover’s Secret
No Exceptions #1
by J.C. Reed
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance, suspense
Release Date: August 5, 2014

The Lover's Secret

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

When a sexy encounter comes like a dream and leaves like a nightmare…

Brooke Stewart thinks she’s finally safe. After witnessing the crime of a killer, she can move on from her past. But after one night at the Trio Hotel and meeting the sexy stranger with the green eyes that can steal one’s soul, her life is changed forever. Passions run deep. The game is supposed to be for one night with no strings attached.

What she doesn’t know is that the sexy stranger has an agenda of his own. Brooke Stewart has something he desperately wants, something he can’t admit to the woman he tries to get to surrender. A secret so deep it would upend her life if she found out too soon. He’s almost reached his goal, and then she gets a letter she was not meant to read. Suddenly, secrets get a completely new meaning.

Is the past really ever the past?

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE LOVER’S SECRET is the first instalment in J.C.Reed’s adult, contemporary No Exceptions erotic romance series-a spin off from her popular Surrender Your Love series. THE LOVER’S SECRET is the continuing story of Brooke and Jett-one where secrets are revealed and betrayal is at the heart of an emotional breakdown and an impossible future-a story of forbidden love that has all the elements of deceit, betrayal and a feeling of hopelessness.

J.C.Reed pulls the reader into an unforgettable story of suspense, mystery, romance and love but a love that may very well be based on a lie. Brooke’s issues of trust come to the forefront as the evening’s events culminate in a mysterious letter, a lover’s kiss and the knowledge that she is no longer safe and assured about her future.

THE LOVER’S SECRET is an intense, dramatic and captivating introduction to J.C.Reed’s No Exceptions series and the continuing story of Jett and Brooke. We are witness to a passionate affair between two people whose lives have been destroyed by disbelief, distrust and uncertainty. When Jett asks for Brooke’s promise, she soon realizes that there is more to the promise than words could ever tell. Words are deceptive especially when followed by actions that are counterproductive to the promises made.

The storyline covers but a few hours in their lives, spent mostly in the bedroom or having sex but it is after they go their separate ways, does the real story begin. Lies, betrayal and the heartbreaking reality that everything between two people could have been a lie.

J.C.Reed is an amazing storyteller-she will pull you in and suck you under. There are twists and turns to a relationship that has barely survived and with the latest revelations there may be no hope for the future.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

______________

The Lover’s Game
No Exceptions #2
by J.C. Reed
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance
Release Date: September 9, 2014

The Lover's GameAmazon.com/ Amazon.uk / KOBO /

When love is a game…

After having her heart broken, Brooke tries to rebuild her life and closes herself off from the one man she loved deeply.

When she meets Grayson, a photographer, she has no idea that her new boss will offer her more than she bargained for. The pay is great, her new friends more than welcoming and everything seems to be running well…until everyone insists she find herself a new suitor during a night out.

Jett knows how to play games. He is used to getting attention from everyone except the beautiful dark haired woman who doesn’t like to be fooled with and doesn’t trust him as far as she can spit. He wants Brooke but, more than that, he wants to own her, and the only way to get her is to make her owe him…against her will.

And what Jett owns, Jett keeps forever.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE LOVER’S GAME is the second instalment in J.C.Reed’s No Exceptions series continuing the story of Brooke and Jett that began in her popular SURRENDER YOUR LOVE series. Part two follows Brooke as she endeavors to start her life anew now that she has walked away from the only man she has ever love. Betrayal and heartbreak follow Brooke just as she learns to love again.

The storyline continues immediately on the heels of The Lover’s Secret. As Brooke and Jett continue to rekindle their relationship, Brooke is blindsided when she discovers that Jett has not only lied but has betrayed and humiliated Brooke with his dishonesty and secrets. Brooke sets out to even the score only to realize that her thoughts continually go back to Jett.

THE LOVER’S GAME main focus is on Brooke. Because the novel has been broken down into novella size storylines in serial format, the premise finds Brooke pondering her future – alone. As she attempts to set into motion a new path, she finds herself, yet again, the victim of betrayal and revenge. Trust must be earned and everyone she meets is not worthy of her trust. Our heroine places herself into some precarious situations and revenge is the first thing on her mind.

J.C.Reed spins a tale of anguish and pain. There are no romantic overtures or sensual seductions. Part two is a building block into the next instalment.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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excerpt

 

“It’s
over,” I whispered, more to myself than to him. “You can’t have me anymore. You
can’t sleep with me anymore. In fact, I’d rather you just left and never
contacted me again.”He let out
an annoyed sigh and pushed his fingers through his dark hair just as I had done
the previous night when he had pinned me to the floor. “The last time I
checked, we were still together.”“Then I am
ending things right now.” Another sharp pang of pain hit my chest. I turned my
gaze to the shaggy rug beneath my feet so I wouldn’t have to see his
expression. “Can you please leave now?”As if
sensing that I needed space, he walked back to the open window and leaned
against the wall, facing me. “I’m not leaving until you tell me what’s going
on.” His voice was calm, but the dangerous undertones didn’t escape my
attention.I looked up
at him. His face was as hard as stone, and his eyes shimmered with something I
couldn’t pinpoint. “You know damn right what’s going on.”“I actually
don’t.” He pulled his eyebrows together again and let out an annoyed sigh. “Why
don’t you enlighten me, Brooke?” His hard smile belied his anger.My pulse
began to race, but it wasn’t from the physical attraction that was still
palpable in the air. Jett was playing games again, and this time it was the
clueless card, but I could see through his pretense—more so because I had seen
it coming. The thought that he thought he could lie right to my face infuriated
me.

“Damn
right, you do,” I said through gritted teeth, suppressing the wish to throw
something else at him. “I don’t trust you as far as I can spit.”

He inched
closer and grabbed my hand. I drew back before he could pull me to him and
before his hard body could envelope me, soothing me the way only Jett knew how.

“Brooke.”
Another annoyed sigh. “Can you please, for one moment, sit down and explain to
me what’s going on? The last time you broke things off, you didn’t have a
freaking choice, but this time? Forgive me for asking, but I’m confused.” His
voice was hard, his expression detached. I had never seen his stunning green
eyes devoid of warmth, and it scared me. His attitude suggested that I was the
enemy, as if I was the one causing him
pain.

“What is
there to explain?” I started. “I know.”

“What do
you know?” He sounded so sincere I laughed bitterly. He wasn’t just a good
liar; he was an excellent one, who could have probably fooled any lie detector.

I shook my
head as I stared him down. “I know everything,
Jett.”

“What do
you mean?” He sighed. “What exactly do you
think you know?”

 

About The Author Black and Red

JC ReedFollow:Facebook / Goodreads / Blog / Twitter

J.C. Reed is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of SURRENDER YOUR LOVE and CONQUER YOUR LOVE. She writes steamy contemporary fiction with a touch of mystery. When she’s not typing away on her keyboard, forgetting the world around her, she dreams of returning to the beautiful mountains of Wyoming. You can also find her chatting on Facebook with her readers or spending time with her two children.

 

SURRENDER YOUR LOVE trilogy by J.C.Reed

Surrender Your Love Series

Surrender Your Love: Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Conquer Your Love: Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Treasure Your Love: Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

Giveaway-redandblack_zps8ff4dc4b

TWO WAYS TO WIN !!

J.C. is generously offering the ebook trilogy-SURRENDER YOUR LOVE (Books 1-3) and an ebook copy of THE LOVER’S SECRET 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. Follow us on Goodreads

6. Like JC Reed on Facebook for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.

8. Giveaway runs from September 11 to 16, 2014

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Under His Protection (Red Stone Security #9) by Katie Reus-a review

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UNDER HIS PROTECTION (Red Stone Security #9) by Katie Reus-a review

Under His Protection

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 1, 2014

Julieta’s stalker doesn’t play by the rules

Lingerie shop owner Julieta Mederos has worked hard to get her business off the ground. Now she’s looking forward to some quality time with her friends and her big, boisterous family. But explicit texts from random phone numbers and vandalism at her shop makes it clear someone dangerous has fixated on her. Without any solid leads, the police can’t help her and she’s forced to turn to the last man she wants to depend on.

…but neither does Ivan.

Former Army Ranger and newest Red Stone Security employee Ivan Mitchell has gotten used to being alone in the world. He never even thinks about it anymore—until he meets sexy, independent Julieta. She’s everything he could ever want…but she seems determined to keep him at arm’s length. Until now. Maybe the cops can’t do anything to protect her, but he can. When things escalate faster than even he expected, he finds himself pulling out his most extreme combat skills to protect her. He’ll do what it takes to save her life—and prove to her she belongs in his.

REVIEW: UNDER HIS PROTECTION is the ninth instalment in Katie Reus’s contemporary, adult Red Stone Security romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for RSS. This is lingerie shop owner Juieta Mederos and Ivan Mitchell-Red Stone Security’s newest employee -storyline. Under His Protection can be read as a stand alone.

Told from several close third person POVs, the storyline focuses on the mysterious threats and phone calls against Julieta Mederos. Julieta has a stalker and doesn’t know who or why. Having met two months earlier, and believing Ivan wanted nothing to do with her, Julieta is reluctant to accept Ivan’s assistance until her stalker’s threats become more sexually explicit and physical. With Ivan working the investigation everyone becomes a suspect.

Julieta and Ivan were first introduced two months earlier through a mutual ‘friend’ Mina (RSS #8) whose fiancé –Alexander Blue- works for RSS. As Mina’s bodyguard Ivan will get up close and personal with Mina’s friends including Julieta Mederos. Ivan’s attraction to Julieta is immediate but he bides his time waiting for an opportunity. When the threats against Julieta escalate, Ivan becomes her protector both at her business and at home, while losing his heart at the same time. Julieta is an independent young woman who knows that without Ivan’s help, she may not live to see another day. The relationship and love is quick to develop but we do learn a little bit about each of their backgrounds-from childhood to present day.

The secondary characters include a few of the characters from previous Red Stone Security storylines. We are introduced to Julieta’s large extended family as well as her employee Ruby who may have a storyline in the future.

UNDER HIS PROTECTION is a fast paced story of romance and suspense. Katie pulls the reader into a sensual, passionate and intense tale where two people find one another under dark and dangerous circumstances. The Red Stone Security series is addicting, captivating and worth the time to read.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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In His Sights by Jo Davis – a Review

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In His Sights by Jo Davis – a Review

 

In His Sights
Sugarland Blues series – Book #3
by Jo Davis
Release Date: September 2, 2014

In His sightsAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
When a dangerous criminal targets those whom Sugarland detective Chris Ford holds dear, nothing will stop him from hunting down his man.…

Chris is one the best and brightest at the Sugarland PD, but lately a mysterious illness has him struggling to get through the day. When his symptoms land him in the care of brilliant and sexy Dr. Robyn Lassiter, Chris realizes that he is the latest victim in a rash of mysterious poisonings in the area—most of them fatal. Figuring out who’s causing the fatal outbreak has become a very personal—and deadly—race against time.

Despite battling her own personal demons and painful past, Dr. Robyn Lassiter can’t fight her attraction to her new patient. But as she struggles to help Chris track down the sick mind behind the deaths, she’s not only at risk of losing her heart but of falling headlong into a lethal plot that could take her life.…

 

Review:

In His Sights by Jo Davis is the 3rd novel in her Sugarland Blue series. I looked forward to reading this book, as I really enjoyed the first two books in this series.   Chris Ford is our hero, and he is a detective on the Sugarland police force. Chris has only been in Sugarland for a few months, having moved there to be near his cousin Shane (also a detective, and one of our heroes in the earlier books). Chris has just about recovered from an injury on the job, but he tries to hide from others that he is feeling seriously under the weather. He pushes himself back to work

Dr. Robyn Lassiter is our heroine, and as she is walking with her young daughter, Maddy, she comes across Chris, who was approached by Maddy as looking sickly. Robyn tries to help, but Chris perks up when he sees her, and soon he will go all out to win over the beautiful doctor and her precious daughter.

While a romance is about to begin, a mystery develops that starts with Robyn at the hospital losing a patient to a heart attack. She becomes suspicious with the recent similar deaths that have been happening. She enlists the aid of the medical examiner to check into the symptoms of the deceased. While this will take time, poor Chris is unknowingly the next victim of a serial killer.

The romance between Chris and Robyn was very sweet and sensual. Chris knew he was falling hard for Robyn, and Maddy. He was not only hot, but so so sweet to both of them….a perfect match. The only issue was Robyn was hesitant to become involved in a relationship, having lost her husband a few years ago, and she did not want to get hurt again. But love will prevail, if Chris will survive the serial killer.

Both Robyn and Chris begin to suspect something might be very wrong in his house, since when he stayed over at Robyn’s ( yes very sexy nights), he would feel so much better.

As the mystery deepens, the danger escalates and the fierce breathtaking ride to the climatic ending made it impossible to put this book down. In His Sights is another wonderful story that was romance suspense at its best. In the middle of this suspenseful intense mystery, the romance was great, as I loved both Chris and Robyn. Jo Davis does it again with a fantastic addition to this fabulous series. If you love romance, mystery, suspense and a wonderful couple, then look no further than In His Sights.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Interview with Cover Model-Nathan D. Weller

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Interview with Cover Model-Nathan D. Weller

Nathan Weller 3TRC: Hi Nathan and welcome to The Reading Café. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

NOTE: Nathan Weller pass away in 2020

 

Nathan: I grew up in a small tourist beach town along Lake Michigan.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Nathan: I played hockey for fun but I was better at baseball. My first aspirations were to get college paid for with a scholarship then professional baseball player. I did end up playing professional baseball but it didn’t last long. My arm went and I had to get tommy john surgery. After that I never fully came back 100%.

TRC: Will you please tell us about how you got started in the modeling business? How were you ‘discovered’?

Nathan: K Keeton Designs discovered me. Kelsey messaged me on Facebook asking to take some pictures. I was bartending at the time and remember showing up to the photo shoot that morning on a couple hours sleep. She snapped a few pictures and posted them. Ever since then the authors have loved me and welcomed me with open arms.

TRC: What have been some of the challenges you have faced in your modeling career?

Nathan Weller 4

Nathan: A constant challenge is staying in shape. I’m still fairly new to modeling. I didn’t really see the opportunity at first. When I decided to start taking it seriously I started working out again. Injuries can also be a challenge. It’s hard to get in shape when you’re battling an injury. Food has been a challenge for me as well when it comes to staying in shape. I tend not to have portion control or will power to resist all the delicious foods. You put a large pizza in front of me I will eat it.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Nathan: Haha, well some authors can be picky as to what they want on a cover. I’ve had to redo shoots before. When you pour your heart and soul into a book you tend to have a certain vision of how you want your cover as well.Sometimes outfits don’t align (hair color, nails, etc.) to the author’s vision. Other than that if something goes wrong it’s usually caught on camera. The outtakes of a shoot are my favorite part.

Nathan Weller 2TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality and pornography. You have posed nude for several photographers. What would you tell young models just entering the business about nude modeling?

Nathan: I’ve never technically done nude modeling. Sure I’ve taken my clothes off under hotel bed sheets but the photos are more seductive and don’t focus on the nudity. You also have to be careful of who you work with as well. Make sure the photographer is reputable, especially for you young ladies out there. If you’re not comfortable with something don’t do it.

TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. At times do you feel alone, surround by so many people? What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Nathan: The stress that I deal with is the imperfection of my body. I’m constantly comparing myself to other fitness models and see areas I can improve. Sometimes I wish I could just drop this modeling stuff and be a fat kid lol.

TRC: Is modeling your full –time career or do you have a ‘day job’?

Nathan Weller 5

Nathan: Modeling is not my full time career but I wouldn’t mind making it. I would love to spend more time in the gym and posing with beautiful woman. Right now I’m in between jobs. I try to live a simple life. Go to the gym, take care of my animals. I have 30 acres north of town with a few goats.

Nathan Weller 1TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry. But the popularity of the paranormal romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years with the many vampire, werewolf and fantasy storylines. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Nathan:  The popularity of the romance industry is very exciting for me. Regardless of the general theme behind the book it’s just great to see the industry grow, not only the industry but the personal friends success along the way. I’ve had the opportunity to watch careers blossom.

That being said, sex sells and covers are very important. As an author you need something that is unique and flashy, but yet portrays your story. Covers that will make a reader pick up a book and open it.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers on which your image has appeared?

Nathan: I’ve done about 20 covers now. Half of those books are out now, others are still in print.

Nathan Weller Cover8TRC: Do you remember the first ‘romance cover’ on which you appeared?

Nathan: When You’re Ready by J.L. Berg was my first cover. I think that’s when I realized that this was kind of a big deal. I was on the cover of a bestselling author.

TRC: Do you have a favorite cover?

Nathan: It’s hard to pic a favorite cover. They are all unique and special in their own way to me.

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Nathan: Throw on some pj’s, pop in a movie, grab some snacks, and light one up.

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Nathan: I’ve debated writing a book of my own, although I don’t know that I could. As of now I’m just jotting down a few ideas. Being around the book industry has been very inspiring. A romance book that comes from the raw male perspective seems like something readers would be interested in.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Nathan: Thank you for everyone at The Reading Café to give me this opportunity!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
French toast

Favorite Dessert
Chocolate chip cookie dough

Favorite Movie
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Favorite TV Show
The Walking Dead

Last Movie that you Saw
Pain and Gain

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Milk

Last Book that you Read
The 12th Planet by Zecharia Sitchin

TRC: Thank you Nathan for taking the time to answer out questions. Congratulations on all of your success.

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My Control (Inside Out Novella 4.1) by Lisa Renee Jones-Review and Blog Tour

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My Control (Inside Out Novella 4.1) by Lisa Renee Jones-Review and Blog Tour

My Control Release Day Banner

My Control
Inside Out Novella
by Lisa Renee Jones
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotica, romance
Release Date: September 8, 2014

My Control

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 8, 2014

Mark’s POV novella

I have lost the man I once was, letting guilt and heartache define who I am. Darkness has controlled me, and one woman has seen what no one else has seen in me, what I do not wish to exist. My hunger for her has driven me to the edge of sanity, but no more. She’s about to find out that the Master has returned.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: MY CONTROL is the latest novella in Lisa Renee Jones’s adult, contemporary, suspense Inside Out romance series. This is Master and Dom Mark Compton’s continuing storyline as he begins to lose what is left of his control. Told from alternating first person POV (Mark and Crystal) My Control is a quick and emotion laden read.

With the whereabouts of his former sub still unknown and the possibility that she has met her death at the hands of someone he once trusted with her life, Mark Compton is a man on the verge of an emotional and physical breakdown. MY CONTROL pulls the reader into a storyline that overlaps the premise of book four NO IN BETWEEN and gives the reader an up close and personal look at a man whose guilt and emotional well being are dependent on the outcome of the police investigation.

Lisa Renee Jones adds another exciting layer to her Inside Out Series pulling us closer to the final reveal.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Inside Out Series

 

1. If I Were You
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository
2. Being Me
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository
3. Rebecca’s Lost Journals

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO
4. The Master Undone
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca/Amazon.uk / Barnes and Noble /KOBO
5. His Secrets
Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble
6. Revealing Us
– Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository
7. My Hunger
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /
8. My Control
Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /
9. No In Between
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository
10. I Belong To You
 Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository
11. All of Me (Feb 2015)
Amazon.com

Inside Out Series-My Control cover

excerpt

 

I follow him down the stairs, wondering what I’ll find. The tender family man that I’ve glimpsed as he’s cared for his mother? The hard businessman who shut me out after the last time I was here and kept me at a distance? The broken man from the hotel room?

We reach the bottom of the steps and though we turn left, to my right is a dungeon door—which makes me consider another option. Maybe I’m about to see the true Master that I’ve encountered only once before in a bathroom in New York. The memory of him ripping off my panties and demanding that I beg “Mr. Compton” to lick me heats my skin and sets my nerves to jumping. I’d asked, not begged, damn it, and I’d been aroused—which confuses me for reasons I try never to think about.

Kurt stops walking and I realize that we’ve arrived at Mark’s private quarters. He rings a buzzer, and then faces me as the door pops open, giving me a nod. Without so much as a word, he leaves me to enter on my own.
I push open the heavy wooden door and enter the familiar room that seems dipped in a soft glow, a massive four poster bed the centerpiece to various erotic adventures draped in sheer curtains. Those curtains do funny things to my belly that I do not invite, nor do I want to explore. But inching forward, scanning for Mark to no avail, I am forced to search the depths of the room, unable to truly see what’s inside, but certain there’s no human outline.

Finally, my attention goes to a huge archway opening that appears to lead to another room. I swallow hard and move forward. At the entryway I freeze, finding Mark standing in the center of a room with curtains surrounding what looks like another archway leading to a room meant for bondage.
I was right. The Master is here—and he’s the man that I’ve been avoiding. The man who is everything that I do not want.

 

 

My control revealed

 

about the author

Jones_Lisa_Renee-1ABOUT LISA RENEE JONES

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT TRILOGY which has sold to more than ten countries for translation with negotiations in process for more, and has now been optioned by STARZ Network for a cable television show, to be produced by Suzanne Todd (Alice in Wonderland).

Since beginning her publishing career in 2007, Lisa has published more than 30 books with publishers such as Simon and Schuster, Avon, Kensington, Harlequin, NAL, Berkley and Elloras Cave, as well as crafting a successful indie career. Booklist says that Jones suspense truly sizzles with an energy similar to FBI tales with a paranormal twist by Julie Garwood or Suzanne Brockmann.

Prior to publishing, Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by Dallas Women Magazine. In 1998 LRJ was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.

Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her through her website and she is active on twitter and facebook daily.

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Lisa is offering a $25 Gift Card to ONE (1) lucky reader at the end of the tour

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

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Shatter by Erin McCarthy – a Review

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Shatter by Erin McCarthy – a Review

 

ShatterAmazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository

Description:
Kylie Warner prides herself on being optimistic, but after finding her best friend in bed with her boyfriend and flunking chemistry, her upbeat attitude has taken a dive. Even an impromptu hook-up with her sexy new chemistry tutor only brightens her mood slightly. After all, it’s not like she’ll ever see the tattooed scholar again…

While he’s a whiz at complex equations, Jonathon Kadisch has trouble when it comes to figuring out women. So when Kylie tells him that she’s pregnant after their night of passion, he’s at a complete loss. He’s prepared to be a good father—unlike his own deadbeat dad—but he’s less prepared to fall for the genuine and alluring blonde bearing his child.

With emotions running high, Kylie wonders if Jonathon’s devotion is out of growing love or looming obligation. And when heartbreak threatens to tear them apart, Jonathon will have to fight for the only girl who’s ever made him feel whole…

 

Review:
Shatter by Erin McCarthy is the 4th book in her New Adult True Believers series. This series is about 4 best friends, doing what friends do; telling each other all their secrets, including their sex with boyfriends, partying, and just worrying and taking care of each other. Each book had one of the girls story, as they met their match. Shatter belongs to Kylie Warner, who is just coming off of the shock of finding out her boyfriend slept with her best friend.

Jonathon Kadisch, is a budding scientist, who could be considered somewhat of a geek, but he is also hot. While Kylie is trying to get over her ex, Nathan, she is worried her grades are failing. Asking for help with her chemistry class, she meets her new tutor, Jonathan (Darwin). It doesn’t take long before the vulnerable Kylie and Jonathon end having sex. But both agree…this was just a one night stand.

A few weeks pass, and surprise surprise, Kylie is pregnant. When Jonathon finds out, he is determined to support Kylie through this, as she wants to keep the baby, since she loves children. It becomes a difficult pregnancy for Kylie, but Jonathon and her friends are there to support her. But to no one’s fault, Kylie loses the baby.

What follows is a nice story of two people, totally different, but in a short time they realize that there was still something strong between them. With the pregnancy no longer an issue, can they overcome their differences to stay together?

Into the mix were Kylie’s friends and their boyfriends, who made this more fun. I did like Kylie and Jonathon together, but for some reason, there seemed to be something missing. Kylie truly was very likeable, bubbly, and fun, and even though Jonathan was different, they fell in love with each other. Perhaps it was Kylie’s lack of confidence that she is the best person for Jonathon. Her constant insecurities herself, added the angst to the story, and I personally thought this became somewhat annoying. Jonathon was a great guy, sweet and cute; a perfect guy for Kylie, and he had his own garbage with a very bad father figure, who plays a part in this story.

I enjoyed the story, it was a fast read, some humorous fun moments, and some really nice secondary characters, who had their own stories already told. Kylie and Jonathon were a nice couple, they had hot sex often, but I did not feel the chemistry between them. I also felt that some parts seemed redundant and at times immature. Shatter is a good fast read that tied in with the other stories in this series.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Shifting Shadows by Patricia Briggs – a Review

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Shifting Shadows by Patricia Briggs – a Review

 

Shifting Shadows

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

Description::
A collection of all-new and previously published short stories featuring Mercy Thompson, “one of the best heroines in the urban fantasy genre today” (Fiction Vixen Book Reviews), and the characters she calls friends…

Includes the new stories:
“Silver”
“Roses in Winter”
“Redemption”
“Hollow”

…and reader favorites:
“Fairy Gifts”
“Gray”
“Alpha and Omega”
“Seeing Eye”
“The Star of David”
“In Red, with Pearls”

 

Review:

Shifting Shadows by Patricia Briggs are 10 short stories from the World of Mercy Thompson. For those of you who do not know, Mercy Thompson is Briggs successful werewolf series, which is already on its 8th novel.

Writing a review about a group of short stories is very difficult, so I will not give too much details, which in short stories would be spoilers.

Popular short Stories already published in anthologies:

Fairy Gifts: This take place in a mining town in Montana. Thomas, who was forced to become a vampire as child, comes to the rescue of a young fae girl. He received a precious gift, and years later is drawn back there.

Gray: A female vampire returns to Chicago and buys the home filled with happy and sad memories. She begins remodeling the place, and becomes friends with the human contractor. But she also has to deal with other vampires and protect what is hers.

Alpha and Omega: This is the novella about werewolves, the ultra powerful Charles Cornick and the abused young Omega werewolf, Anna. This led to the Mercy Thompson spin off series, Alpha and Omega. I loved this short story the best. Wonderfully done.

Seeing Eye: This is a story of Tom, a werewolf who needs the help of a powerful witch to save his human brother. Moira is a good witch, who is blind, due to her evil father. She must decide if she is strong enough to help Tom. This was one of the best stories in this book.

The Star of David:  This story is about a werewolf who is estranged from his human daughter. Stella needs her father’s help when one of the foster children she helps is accused of attacking his foster family. She knows something isn’t right, and with her father’s help they discover the truth. This is a nice story of an estranged family coming together, letting go of the past.

In Red With Pearls: Warren is a werewolf, who is PI helping Kyle, a human lawyer. The story is about a zombie trying to kill Kyle, and the witch, who had to help save Kyle and find out why and who spelled the zombie.

New short stories, which Briggs created for this novel:

Silver: Patricia says she wrote this depressing story because of her fans demands to know. Ithis covers how Bran and Samuel were first made into werewolves, and how Samuel first fell in love with the Ariana.

Roses in Winter: A young girl who survives a werewolf attack, has not been able to control her wolf. She is moved to Bran’s pack, the ancient werewolf Ansil tries to help, with time of essence. The law is absolute: if a werewolf cannot learn to control the wolf, they must be destroyed for the safety of all. Another very good one.

Redemption: Ben is a werewolf who has a quick temper, and loves to curse. He’s makes a bet that he can stop swearing for a week, and it just might change his life.

Hollow: A wealthy recluse is haunted by a terrible ghost, and Mercy is called in to help. But is it truly a ghost or something far more dangerous. This was another good story.

Outake from Silver Borne: Samuel and Ariana, whom we knew from Silver, have another chance at love, and they’re determined to make it work. Briggs explains at the start of this story that she wanted to explain more about Samuel finally being with Ariana, since she couldn’t fit it in during Silver Borne.

Outtake from Broken – Briggs dreamed this sequence just as she finished Night Broken, and it was too late to add it. So here it is, at the hospital while Mercy close to dying. Adam’s viewpoint

If you are a fan of Patricia Briggs and Mercy Thompson, then this book is a fun and enjoyable read. I enjoyed her brief comments prior to each story, explaining how she came up with the story, and the timing where it would fit in with her books. Shifting Shadows is the perfect book to read on a nice lazy weekend or on the beach.

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The Lady’s Disgrace by Callie Hutton – a Review

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he Lady’s Disgrace by Callie Hutton –  a Review

 

The Lady's DisgraceAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
A lady is nothing without her reputation. Jilted and humiliated by her once-betrothed, Lady Abigail Lacey is the laughingstock of London. Worse still, the humiliation is now reflecting badly on her family. Now her brother, the Duke of Manchester, is desperate… until he finds a way to rescue his sister’s damaged reputation, and remove her from the glare of disapproving society.

He must marry her off. Quickly.

When Rector Joseph Fox drops by the Lacey household, he certainly didn’t expect to leave as a man engaged to a long-time family friend! Yet while he never could have aspired to have her, Lady Abigail always ignited a forbidden longing in him. But Abigail has one condition—their marriage is to be void of passion or physical pleasures. Faced with a platonic marriage of convenience, Joseph is determined to embark on a sensuous adventure with only one goal: to seduce his new wife…

Review:

The Lady’s Disgrace is book 3 in Callie Hutton’s Marriage Mart Mayhem series. I was lucky enough to read and review the previous book in this series The Duke’s Quandry and was glad to be able to follow it up with The Ladies Disgrace. This is Lady Abigail and Joseph’s story. We met both character’s in The Duke’s Quandry and learned a little about both, but now get to see the full picture and history of this couple.

I’ve come to the conclusion that Callie Hutton has a special knack for writing historical romance, and I’ve become a fan of hers. The humour, witty banter, romance and overall storyline she creates before your very eyes sweeps you back in time and carries you away on a fun filled and sometimes dangerous adventure. This time, Ms. Hutton adds the mystery of ‘who done it’ to Joseph and Abigail’s story. Someone out there isn’t too happy about Rector Joseph Fox’s new wife and is determined to do away with her, but just who is it, will keep you guessing throughout the entire story, while keeping you riveted to the slowly developing and lovely romance between the newly weds.

Ms. Hutton does a wonderful job of slowly building the relationship and romance between Abigail and Joseph. Abigail and Joseph are wonderfully written characters that the reader is able to identify with and like from the get go. Joseph is patient, and understanding with Abigail about her ‘terms’ for their marriage, but knows deep down he can win his Lady’s love with the love he’s been carrying around for her since her 1st come out ball. He’s loved her all his life, but always felt his station was beneath her families, now he’s not giving that chance up, he’ll do anything to win her love. Joseph’s everything you could want in a husband and those qualities just shine through on the pages and watching him woo his Lady was one of my favourite parts of the story. Abigail on the other hand isn’t too sure about opening up her heart again to the hope of love after she was jilted at the alter by her former betrothed. Even though I could see her point of view, there were many times I wanted to shake her silly and tell her to grow up, open her eyes and see that Joseph isn’t like her former betrothed. Joseph is everything that he could only hope to be in a husband, and a man for that fact.

Ms. Hutton writes the perfect ‘aha’ scene with Abigail when she finally realizes she loves Joseph, which then sets the story up for a dramatic and nail biting ending to a beautifully written tender and romantic story. I just love it when an author sets the ending up in just this way. Nothing like a good old fashioned ‘who done it’ mystery weaved into a romantic story that creates the kind of nail biting suspenseful ending we get here in The Lady’s Disgrace. Even though we have the underlying ‘who done it’ storyline that keeps us on our toes throughout, there were also many comical scenes where we get to see the witty banter and fun that I’ve come to know Ms. Hutton has a knack for incorporating into her storytelling. I really enjoy these scenes, and they let the characters true personalities shine through and endear them to the reader even more.

Once again I think it’s safe to say Ms. Hutton has another winner on her hands. The Lady’s Disgrace is a fun and fast paced read. The characters are real, with a well- developed storyline that keeps us riveted from the very beginning. The romance between Abigail and Joseph is brilliantly written, with just the right amount of ‘who done it’ thrown in to complicate things for them on their path to trusting and loving each other fully. For anyone who is a fan of Ms. Hutton or historical romances, then this one’s a welcomed addition to your library.

Until next time, happy reading!

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Publisher

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