Guardian’s Patience (Guardians of the Race #5) by Jacqueline Rhoades-a review

GUARDIAN’S PATIENCE (Guardians of the Race #5) by Jacqueline Rhoades

Guardian's Patience

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2014

Short and round, she dresses like a gypsy in vibrant and sometimes clashing colors. She’s been known to dye her hair to match her mood. She does a Good Deed every day and smiles at everyone she meets. But underneath her happy-go-lucky exterior, Patience Delecourt is lonely and afraid. She’s the mouse in a demon’s Cat-and-Mouse game that’s been going on for years. Her ideal hero would come straight out of the old movies she watches night after night alone in her tiny apartment.

Stuffy and socially awkward, Broadbent ad Sebastian, Guardian of the Race, has his vision of the ideal woman, too; tall, elegant, cultured, and well-read. But every time he meets someone who might fill the bill, his advances are met with laughter and derision. As hard as he tries to emulate his fellow Guardians; their prowess with women, their clothes, their interests; he just can’t get it right.

He doesn’t see himself as handsome or a hero. She doesn’t see herself as beautiful or brave. Yet what they find together opens new worlds of wonder for them both. It also opens the doors to old enemies and sets off a series of events that threaten the House of Guardians and the people within it. With the credits ready to roll on their mismatched love story, Patience and Broadbent will have to find the bravery and heroism they see in each other, and decide how much they will sacrifice for love.

REVIEW:

Some background: The Guardians are of the Race (Nephilim) with superior strength and speed, descended from Gabriel, seduced by the Daughters of Man, who are on earth to protect the humans and guard the portal, ensuring the demons do not cross the barrier. When a Guardian dies and his heart remains within his chest, he will turn vampire, and must be destroyed before the blood rage consumes.

The women in the storyline are the Daughter’s of Man- the descendants of one of the original matings and not without some supernatural ability and power of their own.

All males of the Race are born with a tiny red tear drop over their left chest muscle. As the male matures, the lilies bloom (it is not a tattoo). When they are initiated into the Guardians, the skull and tears appear. Once they are mated, a rose will bloom with the lilies. A white rose for a mated pair, a red rose for a blood bond pair.

GUARDIAN’S PATIENCE is the fifth installment in Jacqueline Rhoades Guardians of the Race adult, contemporary, paranormal romance series focusing on the Guardians and the women they love. This is witch Patience (Pinkie) Delecourt and Guardian Broadbent ad Sebastian’s storyline. Although GUARDIAN’S PATIENCE is the fifth in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty. Any important information is imparted where necessary but for cohesion and enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order.

Told from several close third person points of view, GUARDIAN’S PATIENCE continues to focus on the demon invasion of Earth. Patience Delecourt is a witch whose practice in the ‘black arts’ has made her the target and object of one demon in particular. On the run from her past, Patience finds herself, yet again, having to pack up shop but an attack will place Patience on the Guardian’s radar. Enter Broadbent ad Sebastian-a debonair, old fashioned Guardian who reminds Patience of the cinematic movie actors from long ago.

Broadbent is a Guardian who has always felt displaced within his Lord Liege Canaan’s House of Guardians. Out of touch and inexperienced in the love department, Broadbent finds himself attracted to the feisty and overly romantic Patience Delecourt-a witch whose past greatly contradicts the Guardian’s directive. As the demons continue to pursue Patience, the House of Guardians will come under attack when their current location is revealed. One of their own, will go missing, and it is up to Patience and Broadbent to bring him home. The sex scenes are intimate and captivating without the use of erotic images or foul language.

The world building continues as The Guardians must face down the demons whose need for blood targets the humans of Earth. All of the previous storyline couples play a secondary role throughout the story allowing for an intimate look into their lives and loves. Dov and Col continue their humorous banter, sarcastic wit and playful antics-puppy like in action and temperament but when called, Dov and Col are ready for anything the Guardians have to offer. While Grace and Caanan await the birth of their child, the House of Guardians is on high alert for any outside paranormal activity.

GUARDIAN’S PATIENCE is another fast paced, imaginative, and passionate storyline. Jacqueline Rhoades’ amazing GUARDIANS OF THE RACE is an incredibly wonderful paranormal series that smoothly blends present day problems with supernatural abilities. There are moments of mystery, suspense, romance and love all combined into a sensual storyline that is a must read for me-every time.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guardians of the Race series

READING ORDER
Guardian’s Grace
Guardian’s Hope
Guardian’s Joy
Guardian’s Faith
Guardian’s Patience

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LIght My Fire (Dragon Kin #7) by G.A.Aiken-a review

LIGHT MY FIRE (Dragon Kin #7) by G.A. Aiken-a review

Light My Fire Dec 14

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RELEASE DATE: November 24, 2014

The trouble with humans is that they’re far too sensitive. Forget you put a woman in the local jail for a few months–and she takes it so personally! And yet she is the one trying to assassinate the queen. And now I’m trapped with Elina Shestakova of the Black Bear Riders of the Midnight…gods! That endless name!

But what am I to do? I am Celyn the Charming with direct orders from my queen to protect this unforgiving female.

Even more shocking, this unforgiving female is completely unimpressed by me. How is that even possible? But I know what I want and, for the moment, I want her. And I’m sure that she, like all females, will learn to adore me. How could she not when I am just so damn charming?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW:  LIGHT MY FIRE is the seventh full length installment in G.A.Aiken’s DRAGON KIN series. This is Celyn the Charming and Elina Shestakova’s storyline. For fans of The Dragon Kin series Celyn was Izzy’s first sexual partner, and cousin to the royal family. The storyline advances the series about ten years.

The premise of the storyline follows Celyn as he is commanded to escort the human female Elina Shestakova back to her homeland to broker a treaty between her tribe, and Queen Annwyl and the Southland Dragons. But nine months earlier Celyn had Elina imprisoned in a human jail for her feeble attempts against the White Queen’s life-and Celyn FORGOT about Elina’s existence. What follows finds Elina and Celyn’s unwelcome journey together – a journey that will end with Elina’s life in jeopardy and Celyn falling for the female who would one day be his mate.

The relationship between Celyn and Elina is tempestuous as Elina is unwilling to forgive Celyn for her time in prison. He is a dragon who has spent most of his adult life guarding the Dragon Queen and in this his idea of babysitting a human female is less than impressive. But our battling couple encounter more than they bargained for including a less than welcoming tribe who never expected Elina’s return.

LIGHT MY FIRE and The Dragon Kin series is an amazing and wonderful journey of fantasy and romance. G.A.Aiken blends sarcasm and humor into a storyline where most of the previous storyline characters (including Fearghus, Briec and Gwenvael) play a secondary role in a story that, once again, shows Annwyl at her best….and worst. Gwenvael and Dagmar’s family has expanded and it is their hatchlings who are the biggest surprise of all. Talwyn, Talan and Rhiannwen’s true callings have yet to be revealed but as their power builds so too does the fear of the unknown-the ‘abominations’ have a greater calling and with the return of a powerful dragon once long thought dead, everyone begins to understand that life is about to change. The next generation is a force unto themselves. With this, the Southland Dragons and everyone they love is threatened-death and destruction is on the horizon.

G.A.Aiken’s world of dragon shifters is a journey of which everyone must embark. The humorous moments and sarcastic banter is worth the price of admission alone. Aiken’s fantastic voice and characterizations are innovative, seductive and addicting. Her world building follows the Dragons of the Southland’s through life and death, family and friendship, mating and love. Dragon Kin is a hilariously entertaining series from the mind of G.A. Aiken.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Reckless/Fearless by Priscilla West-reviews

Reckless / Fearless by Priscilla West-review

Forever Duology

RECKLESS
(Forever #1)
by Priscilla West
Genre: new adult, contemporary, romance, rock muscian

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 4, 2014

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RecklessEverything about him warned me to stay away.

I’d seen bad boys before, but he had it all and more. The rippling muscles covered in tatts, the piercing eyes hiding dark secrets, the silky voice that could make a girl come with just a whisper . . .

He was exactly the type of guy that would get me in trouble, but when he jumped off the stage, inked skin glistening with sweat and breathed his seductive words into my ear, I couldn’t resist the temptation.

It was supposed to be the best one-night stand of my life, but fate didn’t let it play out that way. Things happened. I got upset. I got hasty. And worst of all, I got reckless.

After that disaster, I thought it was the last I’d see of him. But what I didn’t know was that I’d started something.

Something that could shatter the very thing I had worked so hard to protect.

I should have known back then that the most seductive things in life are also the most dangerous.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: RECKLESS is the first instalment in Priscilla West’s contemporary, new adult RECKLESS series focusing on Jax- the front man and lead singer- for the rock group ‘The Hitchcocks’ and accountant Riley Hewitt.

Hired as a tour accountant for an up and coming rock band whose finances are a mess, Riley finds herself travelling and working for the very man-Jax- (and group) who had previously pulled her into a maelstrom of groupies, wanna-bees and backstage parties at a local concert several days before.

Making it more difficult is the mutual attraction between Jax and Riley-one that grows with each encounter. Hoping to keep the relationship purely professional, Riley makes it known to Jax that she is hired to do a job and when it is over, she will be returning home. As Jax tries to keep his distance, Riley is pulled to the sexual aura and heat that is rock and roll. But something about Jax tugs at Riley’s heart as she suspects there is darkness and a history about the man whose façade hides a painful emotional well.

The relationship between Jax and Riley is quick to develop but begins accidently when the two meet at a local bar. Riley is a strong willed, feisty woman with a slight wild child persona who hides behind the starched collar of a certified accountant. She is a bit of an enigma-strong and aggressive one moment then fears and anxieties begin to pull her under. She has a habit of pushing too far and in this she provokes Jax at different times along the tour.

Jax is a man with a troubled past-the scars on the surface hide a multitude of anger and pain-and when Riley tries to get Jax to open up, the pain only intensifies. The sex scenes are hot and steamy but Jax is a bit of a loner and prefers to spend time writing and making music.

The other members of the band like to have a good time with alcohol, sex and drugs but usually leave Jax to his own devices-Jax’s demons are dark and tormented, and there are times when the band knows to leave well enough alone. We are introduced to Riley’s bff and friends back home, who only play a minor part in the storyline, as well as get an up close and personal look at both of their pasts. Riley suffers with issues of anxiety but it is nothing compared to what Jax had to suffer when he was young.

Priscilla West takes the reader onto the stage and behind the scenes of life on the road with a famous star. It isn’t always pretty; someone is always waiting in the wings to cut you down even someone who should have protected you but destroyed the very heart and soul of a young boy who only wanted to be loved. Some of the scenes are raw and gritty with graphic violence and heartbreaking pain.

Just a heads up, RECKLESS ends on a bit of a cliffhanger when Riley takes matters into her own hands but have patience, this is a duology and the second instalment is due out in the Fall of 2014.

Copy supplied by the author through Netgalley

_________________________________

FEARLESS
(Forever Book 2)
by Priscilla West
Genre: new adult, contemporary, romance, rock musician

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 17, 2014

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FearlessBeaten, bruised, and broken, I made a desperate move that would change our lives forever.

Just when I thought the worst was behind us, cracks appeared, secrets surfaced, and lies unraveled.

With threats closing in from all sides and our very lives hanging in the balance, I was faced with the most difficult decision of my life.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: FEARLESS is the second installment in Priscilla West’s contemporary, new adult Reckless romance series focusing on Jax, singer and front man for the rock band The Hitchcocks, and accountant Riley Hewitt. This is not a stand alone storyline but one that must be read after Reckless book one. Told from Riley’s point of view (as well as a couple of chapters from Jax) the storyline continues immediately from the events of Reckless.

Jax is a mess. From nightmares to night terrors, flashbacks and more, our hero struggles with his past-a past that controls his present –and a past that has come back seeking revenge. Jax’s fellow band mates know very little about his past but Riley is determined to uncover the truth. When Riley pushes Jax for more information, Jax begins to withdraw, determined to protect Riley from himself-at all costs-even if it means losing the woman with whom he has fallen in love. As Jax’s life spins out of control, everyone will be affected by the fall out.

There are moments of heartbreak and pain for a young man whose earlier years have all but destroyed any semblance of a normal life. Priscilla West brings the reader up close and personal with Jax’s history through flashbacks, memories and dreams that will shatter your heart. Riley is a woman who is driven to save the man that she loves but sometimes it is impossible to save someone-who doesn’t want to be saved.

At this point, I would like to point out, that someone behind the scenes is helping Jax in his recovery and the information or recommendations imparted are questionable on a professional level. I am not sure if the reasoning is accurate but for me it was a bit of a contentious point.

The relationship between Jax and Riley is tested on many levels but none more so than Jax’s continued withdrawal from Riley. The sex scenes are limited; there are issues of trust, fear and letting go.

The world building continues as we follow The Hitchcocks on tour. From backstage to center stage the band members party like there is no tomorrow as they take in the sights and sounds of California. The secondary characters include all of the band members, their manager, and via phone, Riley’s BFF.

FEARLESS is a quick and easy read that ends on a happily ever after, for now. I am looking forward to reading about the other band members if Priscilla is so inclined to bring about their stories. Everyone has some sort of demon in their past but Jax’s demon still has control.

Copy supplied by the author

Reviews by Sandy

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Undesired Lust (Reckless Beat 3) by Eden Summers-a review

UNDESIRED LUST (Reckless Beat 3) by Eden Summers-a review

Undesired Lust

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 21, 2014

They used to be the perfect team.

Two years ago, songstress Sidney Higgins ruined her life by sleeping with not one, but two of the famous Reckless Beat men, Mason Lynch and Sean Taiden. Their night of intimate celebration turned into a worldwide sensation when the video Mason vowed to keep private was uploaded to the internet, destroying her squeaky-clean reputation and turning the world against her. Now she’s broken and left without hope, trying to find the one thing that can get her back on her feet.

A mistake neither one of them is willing to forgive.

When the sex tape went viral and his best friends held him accountable, Mason bore the stigma of asshole with pride. Now, bitterness has destroyed him, driving away his muse and making him worthless in the industry he loves. There’s only one option left to reclaim his creativity, but that would mean collaborating with a woman who wants to castrate him with a plastic knife.

A palpable chemistry even hate can’t diminish.

Forced to work together, neither one of them is prepared for the undesired lust which immediately takes hold. The lies fade away, exposing the truth; however, it also awakens a threat from their past. The person responsible for tearing them apart is back to ensure they don’t rekindle a spark. With their safety in the balance, Sidney and Mason need to determine what they’re willing to risk to reclaim a relationship they wish they’d never lost.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNDESIRED LUST is the third full length installment in Eden Summers’s adult, contemporary Reckless Beat rock musician, romance series focusing on the member of Reckless Beat. This is singer/songwriter Mason Lynch and songstress Sidney Higgins’s storyline-a second chance romance for two people torn apart by a mistake, pride and betrayal. UNDESIRED LUST can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. All of the band members and some of the previous storyline characters make cameo appearances including drummer Sean Taiden whose secondary role is much larger than most.

Told from third person point of view UNDESIRED LUST focuses on the fall-out and destruction of a friendship when an erotic sex tape goes viral. Sidney was a willing participant in the three way between the man with whom she had fallen in love (Mason) and his best friend Sean-but she was worried about the possibility that the recording would go public. In the ensuing two to three years Sidney’s life would be destroyed; her business in ruins; and disowned by her family and friends when the video paints her a whore and a slut. Mason’s betrayal was more than a slap in the face-it ripped out her heart and ruined her faith in mankind. When an opportunity presents itself to work, once again, with Mason Lynch, Sidney is torn between her hatred for the man she used to love and her need for vindication and money to survive.

The relationship between Mason and Sidney is volatile but their sexual chemistry and attraction is intense; provocative and undeniable. Sidney cannot forgive or forget Mason for the perceived act of betrayal. Sidney’s personal and professional life still lay in ruins but she continues to believe Mason’s life went forward as though nothing went wrong. It is only when the truth is finally revealed does Sidney realize that someone else may be responsible for the destruction in their lives. Threatening letters, emails and texts will send Sidney running for the comfort of home but not before a declaration of love is made by both.

The world building continues to focus on the members of Reckless Beat but Undesired Lust focuses primarily on the relationship between Mason, Sidney and Sean. Sean’s relationship with Mason is also affected when he realizes that he too has been in the dark about the truth. All three will need the support and comfort of each other and the band, when someone else is determined to destroy Sidney’s life-one band member at a time. Mystery and suspense are woven throughout the story when Sidney’s life is threatened because of the rebuilding friendship with Mason and Sean

UNDESIRED LUST is a fantastic addition to Eden Summers’s Reckless Beat. There are moments of heartbreak (wipes a tear), seduction and passion. The destructive nature of jealousy and pride is central to the storyline premise with a startling revelation that will destroy another friendship, in the end. Eden Summers writes a sensual series where love can be addicting, compelling and destructive but in the end, it is true love that wins out every time.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

series spotlight

Blind Attraction
Reckless Beat #1
by Eden Summers
Genre: new adult, contemporary, rock star, romance, erotica

Click HERE for our review of BLIND ATTRACTION

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Blind Attraction_525

He can seduce with a single glance.

Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.

She’s been sheltered from the world.

Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable.

Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart.

He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.

_________________

Passionate Addiction

Passionate Addiction
Reckless Beat #2
by Eden Summers
Genre: contemporary,new adult, romance, rock stars
Release Date: November 15, 2013

Click HERE for our review of PASSIONATE ADDICTION

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He’s been her ultimate untouchable desire.

Nothing says happy birthday like a rock god flying thousands of miles to surprise a woman he’s never met. But that’s exactly what happens to Gabi Smith when she gives her long distance best friend a flippant invitation to her laid back girl’s night out. She never expected to turn on the dance floor and find Blake Kennedy’s gaze holding her body captive.

She’s his everything and he’s never laid eyes on her.

Gabi means more to Blake than life itself. She’s his strength, his savior, and the only person who helped to vanquish his demons. No one means more to him than his angel. So when things between them start to sizzle, he’s ready to fight for the future he never thought he would deserve.

Skeletons from his past will threaten his only chance at love…

Blake has come a long way—with Gabi’s help—to leave the hell of his youth behind him, but sometimes memories don’t want to stay buried. Determined to stand on his own for once, Blake is willing to stretch the truth to keep his troubles from burdening the woman he adores.

Little white lies can create black holes in any relationship. Only time will tell if an Aussie with a heart of gold will forgive her bad-boy boyfriend or if the deceit will end his passionate addiction

____________________

Reckless Weekend
Reckless Beat Novella 2.5
by Eden Summers
Release Date: March 7 2014
Genre: adult,contemporary, erotic, romance, rock stars

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Reckless WeekendABOUT THE BOOK:

Click HERE for our review of RECKLESS WEEKEND

In Vegas, a lot can happen in twenty-four hours.

What do you get when you mix a rock band as hot as Reckless Beat, women strong enough to capture several of the bad boys’ hearts, and a bet that sparks a competitive streak?

Boundaries will be pushed, alcohol will be abused, and loads of sarcasm will be shared.

Once the games are over, it’s time to make a commitment. But love in the limelight is never easy. The past is trying to catch up with the present, and the pressure may be too hard to handle.

Seduction, torment, laughter, and heartbreak—one reckless weekend will test each member of the band and the women who’ve claimed their love.

About The Author

Eden SummersEden Summers is a true blue Aussie, living in regional New South Wales with her two energetic young boys and a quick witted husband.
In late 2010, Eden’s romance obsession could no longer be sated by reading alone, so she decided to give voice to the sexy men and sassy women in her mind.

Eden can’t resist alpha dominance, dark features and sarcasm in her fictional heroes and loves a strong heroine who knows when to bite her tongue but also serves retribution with a feminine smile on her face.

Eden Summers Website / Eden Summers Facebook Page / Twitter / Goodreads

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Designed for Love (Texas Nights #4) by Kelsey Browning-a review

DESIGNED FOR LOVE (Texas Nights #4) by Kelsey Browning-a review

Designed for Lovejpg

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 24, 2014

Ashton Davenport: Hot blonde. Old Money. Off-limits.

That’s how Mac McLaughlin sees her, anyway. And now that he’s enduring a temporary self-imposed exile in tiny Shelbyville, Texas, he’s seeing her way too often. Mac only wants to succeed as the contractor for the Lily Lake development in order to rebuild his reputation and return to Dallas, pronto. A sexy distraction like Ashton was not in the plans.

Mac McLaughlin: Hot builder. Cash poor. Hands-on.

Ashton kissed her trust fund goodbye and left her life as a society princess to prove she could make it on her own. Developing Lily Lake is her big chance, but it’s hard to stay focused working side-by-side with bossy, rough-around-the-edges Mac. Especially when he pulls off his shirt.

When the discovery of an endangered species derails the project, Mac can’t afford to stick around for a stalled job. His and Ashton’s explosive chemistry aside, he’s outta there…unless she can convince him that they just might be able to build something together.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: DESIGNED FOR LOVE is the fourth installment in Kelsey Browning’s contemporary, adult Texas Nights romance series focusing on the small town of Shelbyville, Texas. This is poor little rich girl/interior designer Ashton Davenport and construction foreman Michael ‘Mac’ McLaughlin’s storyline. DESIGNED FOR LOVE can be read as a stand alone. Some of the previous storyline characters, including Beck and Eden from Problems in Paradise (book 3) have small cameo roles throughout the novel.

Told from close third person (Ashton) point of view DESIGNED FOR LOVE focuses on Ashton Davenport-a young woman who walked away from her trust fund leaving the big city of Dallas, Texas behind to try and make it on her own. Born into wealth and expected to follow her family’s bidding, Ashton ventured out on her own to focus on a career in interior design. When Ashton’s grandmother offers Ashton a chance to oversee a new land development in Shelbyville, Ashton jumps at the opportunity only to discover that there are people willing to do just about anything to see the plans fail. Enter Mac McLaughlin, Ashton’s new general contractor and a man who hopes to overcome the failings of his past.

The relationship between Mac and Ashton is one of contempt and disdain. Mac is blinded by Ashton’s family connections and sees Ashton as a spoiled rich kid playing a game with other people’s lives. Mac needs this job opportunity to rid the demons from his past and Mac sees Ashton as a thorn in his chance at redemption. Their attraction to one another is immediate. Ashton is unaware as to why Mac’s feelings lean toward hate and scorn but as their relationship begins to build, the fall out from small town mentality will affect everything including Ashton’s future and Mac’s heart. The sex scenes are seductive, provocative and comedic-ever had sex in a hammock or with a small but terrifying dog nipping at your…um, butt?

The secondary characters include Ashton’s grandmother-a feisty woman who is willing to use any and all means at her disposal to get what she wants done. The townsfolk and surrounding population of Shelbyville see an environmental disaster in the making and attempts to stop the construction will push Ashton into the limelight and out of a job.

DESIGNED FOR LOVE is a romantic, wondrous and oft times comedic look at two people destined for one another but caught up in a game brought about a meddling but well meaning old lady. There are moments that will break your heart balanced by moments of humor and fun. Kelsey Browning’s TEXAS NIGHTS series is about family and love; letting go of the past; and acceptance in a small town not accustomed to change and growth.

Reading Order
1.Personal Assets
2.Running the Red Light
3.Problems in Paradise
4.Designed for Love

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Hard To Come By (Hard Ink #3) by Laura Kaye-Review and Release Week Launch

HARD TO COME BY (Hard Ink #3 ) by Laura Kaye-Review and Release Week Launch

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Hard to Come By
Hard Ink 3
by Laura Kaye
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense
Release Date: November 25, 2014

Hard to Come By

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 25, 2014

Caught between desire and loyalty…

Derek DiMarzio would do anything for the members of his disgraced Special Forces team—sacrifice his body, help a former teammate with a covert operation to restore their honor, and even go behind enemy lines. He just never expected to want the beautiful woman he found there.

When a sexy stranger asks questions about her brother, Emilie Garza is torn between loyalty to the brother she once idolized and fear of the war-changed man he’s become. Derek’s easy smile and quiet strength tempt Emilie to open up, igniting the desire between them and leading Derek to crave a woman he shouldn’t trust.

As the team’s investigation reveals how powerful their enemies are, Derek and Emilie must prove where their loyalties lie before hearts are broken and lives are lost. Because love is too hard to come by to let slip away.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: HARD TO COME BY is the third full length storyline in Laura Kaye’s adult, contemporary Hard Ink romantic suspense series focusing on a group of ex-special forces soldiers trying to prove their innocence in an Afghanistan mission that went horribly wrong. One year earlier, the five surviving members of the twelve man team returned home to discover they had been dishonorably discharged and their records falsified. This is Special Forces team member, IT specialist and amputee Derek (Marz) DiMarzio and psychologist Emilie Garza’s storyline -one that pits Emilie’s brother against the Hard Ink team.

Told from third person point of view, the storyline follows Derek as he is tasked with ‘getting to know’ Emilie better. Emilie’s brother Manny, an ex-Special Forces soldier, is a suspect in a number of suspicious murders and the soldiers of Hard Ink begin tracking his connections to their former commander-the commander who is believed to have turned on his men and left them to die.

The relationship between Derek and Emilie begins as a lie but soon develops into something more. Derek and Emilie are immediately attracted to one another but Derek knows the risk of destroying Emilie when the truth about their relationship is revealed.

The colorful secondary characters include all of the previous storyline couples as well as the remaining Special Forces soldiers and the local bike gang whose new mission is to help track the people responsible for the devastation that awaits the Team. The men of Hard Ink will acquire two new allies in their war at home but will lose someone close at the end of the day. Two more potential relationships have started to bloom.

The timeline from book one to book four is approximately two weeks to date. The mystery and investigation surrounding the Team’s set up and resulting fall out is slowly building as the team members begin to gather information and clues about the people and places involved. It is not an easy mission for the Special Forces Team-the war at home is as dangerous as the war in the Middle East.

Laura Kaye’s HARD INK family consists of passionate men and women whose love for one another is protective and profound. Their stories of loss, sacrifice and survival are emotional, intense and startlingly real.

A great series. A wonderful storyline. An amazing author.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Edelweiss.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

Marz was playing with fire. He damn well knew
he was. But that didn’t make him want to pull away.He just wanted more of the heat.Marz nuzzled the side of Emilie’s face with
his nose, his lips. She turned her face toward him and offered her lips. He
couldn’t refuse.
Capturing her mouth on a tortured groan, Marz
poured every ounce of his longing and confusion and desire into the kiss. They
grasped at each other and Emilie turned in his arms. He pinned her against the
railing and planted his hands in her hair. She opened to him and accepted his
tongue, sucking him in until Marz’s blood ran hot and his hard-on ached. He
ground himself against her and devoured every little moan and whimper and gasp
she spilled.Trailing kisses from her mouth to her jaw to
her ear, Marz dragged a hand down her body and grasped her breast in his palm.
She cried out and her head dropped back, drawing his mouth to her neck, where
he licked and sucked and nipped as he kneaded her soft flesh. “You are so damn
sexy.”
Her hand flew to his hair and grasped the back
of his head. “Touch me,” she said. “Don’t stop touching me.”
Marz pulled away long enough to do a three-sixty
scan. The lighthouse cast a dark shadow over them, and the pier was otherwise
empty. His heart raced and his pulse hammered. He dove back in, trailing kisses
down her neck to her collarbone, which he traced with his tongue. Her nails
scratched deliciously at his scalp and her grip urged him down.Through the thin material of her blouse and
bra, he mouthed and flicked at her nipple. He shifted the deep vee of the
neckline to reveal a lacy royal blue bra. He tongued her through the lace until
she was panting and moaning and writhing against the railing.

“Oh, my God,” she rasped as he shifted her
shirt and moved to her other breast. This time, he tugged the lace down to bare
the deep pink of her nipple. She tasted and smelled like something fruity and
sweet, and it made Marz hunger for more. “Derek,” she gasped. “Yes, yes, yes.”

Her palm cupped and squeezed the bulge of his
erection through his jeans. His hips jerked into the touch, craving more of
her, all of her. He groaned and it seemed to egg her on, because she pressed
and rubbed her hand against his trapped cock until he was panting and imagining
taking her down to the ground.

“Jesus, Emilie, you’re driving me fucking
crazy,” he said as he worked kisses back up her body to her mouth.

“I know just what you mean,” she said. Her
molten hot gaze met his. Eyes hooded, lips shiny and swollen, cheeks flushed,
she was a freaking goddess standing under the moonlit sky. He felt the force of
her beauty every bit as much in his chest as in his cock.

“You sure about that, babe?” he asked as he
took her mouth in a deep, wet kiss. “Because my imagination has me stripping
you of those fuck-hot jeans.”

“Yeah?” She rubbed his cock in a long stroke
with the heel of her hand. “Mine has us getting a room at the hotel back there.
So I’m sure,” she said with a smile.

Marz’s heart hammered against his breastbone
and his cock jerked, clearly liking her idea, too. Except, if he took her up on
it, he was going to end up buried inside her for as long as she’d have him. And
so long as this clusterfuck of a situation defined their relationship, he
couldn’t take things that far. Could he?


Series Spotlight

Hard As It Gets
Hard Ink #1
by Laura Kaye
Genre: contemporary, suspense, action, romance, adult
Release Date: November 2013

Click HERE for our review of HARD AS IT GETS

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

Hard As It Gets  Tall, dark, and lethal…

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey’s tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome–pure temptation to a very jaded Nick. He’s left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander’s daughter. Loyalty won’t let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn’t expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge..
___________________

Hard As You Can
Hard Ink #2
by Laura Kaye
Genre: contemporary, suspense, action, romance, adult
Release Date: February 25, 2014

Click HERE to read our review of HARD AS YOU CAN

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

Hard as You CanAbout the book: Release Date February 25, 2014

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn’t want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can—and never let go.

________________________

Hard to Hold On To
Hard Ink 2.5
by Laura Kaye
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance, suspense
Release Date: August 19, 2014

Click HERE to read our review of HARD TO HOLD ON TO

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 19, 2014

 

Hard To Hold On ToEdward “Easy” Cantrell knows better than most the pain of not being able to save those he loves–which is why he is not going to let Jenna Dean out of his sight. He may have just met her, but Jenna’s the first person to make him feel alive since that devastating day in the desert more than a year ago.

Jenna has never met anyone like Easy. She can’t describe how he makes her feel–and not just because he saved her life. No, the stirrings inside her reach far beyond gratitude.

As the pair are thrust together while chaos reigns around them, they both know one thing: the things in life most worth having are the hardest to hold on to.

 

About The Author Black and Blue

Laura Kaye NewLaura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of nearly twenty books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Hard Ink Puppy FB | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

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Black Widow by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

Black Widow by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

 

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Black Widow
Elemental Assassin series – Book #12
by Jennifer Estep
Release Date: November 25, 2014

Black Widow Nov 14Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
With wicked Fire elemental Mab Monroe long gone, you’d think I could finally catch a break. But someone’s always trying to take me down, either as Gin Blanco or my assassin alter-ago. Now along comes the Spider’s new arch-nemesis, the mysteriously named M. M. Monroe, who is gleefully working overtime to trap me in a sticky web of deceit.

The thing is, I’m not the only target. I can see through the tangled threads enough to know that every bit of bad luck my friends have been having lately is no accident—and that each unfortunate “coincidence” is just one more arrow drawing ever closer to hitting the real bulls-eye. Though new to Ashland, this M. M. Monroe is no stranger to irony, trying to get me, an assassin, framed for murder. Yet, as my enemy’s master plan is slowly revealed, I have a sinking feeling that it will take more than my powerful Ice and Stone magic to stop my whole life from going up in flames

 

Barb’s Review:
Black Widow by Jennifer Estep is the 12th book in her wonderful Elemental Assassin series. I have a few favorite kick-ass heroines, and Gin Blanco is one of them. In each book in this series, Jennifer Estep continues to awe us with a wonderful story, and another impossible situation for Gin to get out of.

The last book left off when we learned about Mab Monroe’s daughter, M.M. (Madeline), and a new villain was born. In Black Widow, Gin finds out quickly that she may have met her strongest adversary, as Madeline is an Acid Elemental and plans on taking over everything, including the underworld her mother controlled.  Since Gin was not fully prepared for Madeline’s secret scheming, as she and her friends/family are besieged with all kinds of legal issues, causing their business, or personal issues to bring them down. Most of all, Gin is set up on a murder charge by a crooked cop, who Madeline controls.

What follows is an exciting non-stop action packed adventure, that seems mostly hopeless for our Gin. At every turn, she faces insurmountable odds, and torture, starting with her stay in jail, which is set up for a full scale attack on her that is designed to have her killed. Madeline is determined to kill Gin, and will stop at nothing to ensure that this is done.

There were so many life ending situations, filled with extreme danger that we cringed in despair for Gin. Through it all, we wondered if this was the end, because we could see no way for Gin to survive some of these attacks. But Gin Blanco is not your normal heroine, she is the Spider, who can be as cunning, murderous and powerful as the worst evil villain. In the most inescapable situations, she will find a way, even if she suffers badly and comes so close to death. Madeline proves to be her strongest enemy. Will Gin find a way to outsmart Madeline? Is she powerful enough to with stand a powerful acid elemental?

Jennifer Estep has given us a story that had us on the edge from beginning to end. I loved seeing all of Gin’s friends/family come together to support and try to help her….Finn, Owen, Bria, Sophia, Jo-Jo, just to name a few, and there are so many more. This was a classic battle against a terrible villain that had us holding our breath. A major twist ending leads the way for future changes. Black Widow was a wonderful edition to Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassin series. If you have not read this series, it is time for you to start reading.

Sandy’s Review:

BLACK WIDOW is the twelve full length storyline in Jennifer Estep’s contemporary, adult Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series focusing on the elemental assassin Gin Blanco aka The Spider. With her dual elements of stone and ice, Gin is a force unto herself but a new enemy with a familiar name and face has come back to Ashland seeking the ultimate revenge. Not only is Gin targeted for destruction, so too are everyone she knows and loves-and this time the Pork Pit is a target as well.

Told from first person point of view (Gin Blanco) BLACK WIDOW finds Gin and her extended family of vampires, dwarves and elementals facing a series of legal action brought about by local law enforcement. From law suits for fraud to health inspections that go terribly wrong, no one is protected when the people in control are no longer in control themselves. As if back from the grave, Mabs Monroe power reaches far and wide, and it comes with a more powerful and startling elemental.

We will reconnect with all of Gin’s family including her lover Owen whose need to protect Gin builds with every storyline. I hope to see something more from Owen and Gin in the future (perhaps I was the only one who caught a small hint). Gin’s foster brother Finn and sister Bria, as well as Jo Jo and Sophia continue to support and aid Gin in her endeavor to control the underground of Ashland but the powerful mob grows stronger with each new leader and elemental control. Gin’s new assistant Silvio is a definite asset when it comes to the inside workings of the law.

The world building continues as the giants, dwarves and other elementals focus their energy and revenge against the woman known as The Spider. Old enemies will resurface and take a stand against Gin all in the name of revenge. Law enforcement is once again on the take when the criminal element of Ashland is back in control. I will say that I worry when an author begins to recycle the bad guy phenomenon, although the recycling is more of a next generation of problems.

BLACK WIDOW has all the requisite mystery, suspense and action. The violence remains but has been curtailed such that the images are not as graphic as have been in the past. Jennifer Estep’s talent with the urban fantasy storyline is above and beyond. Great characters. Amazing author. Fantastic series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

 

Black Widow Audible

Do you like to listen to audio books? click HERE for a sample of BLACK WIDOW by Jennifer Estep

 

giveawayThere are 2 giveaways and 3 winners

-Jennifer is graciously offering a two book giveaway (Poison Promise & Black Widow) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

-Jennifer’s publisher is also graciously offering a paper copy of BLACK WIDOW 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. Please LIKE us on Twitter

5. Please LIKE us on GOODREADS 

6. Please LIKE Jennifer Estep on FACEBOOK and CLICK get notifications under LIKE

7. Giveaway is open USA only.

8. Giveaway runs from November 25 – 29, 2014

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NIght Shift Anthology – a Review

NIght Shift Anthology – Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, Milla Vane, LIsa Shearin a Review

 

Night ShiftAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Four masters of urban fantasy and paranormal romance plunge readers into the dangerous, captivating world unearthed beyond the dark…

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh delivers a smoldering story with Secrets at Midnight, as the scent of Bastien Smith’s elusive lover ignites a possessiveness in him that’s as feral as it is ecstatic. And now that he’s found his mate, he’ll do anything to keep her.

In #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews’ novella, Magic Steals, when people start going missing, shapeshifting tigress Dali Harimau and jaguar shifter Jim Shrapshire must uncover the truth about the mysterious creatures responsible.

From Milla Vane—a warrior princess must tame The Beast of Blackmoor to earn a place among her people. But she quickly discovers that the beast isn’t a monster, but a barbarian warrior who intends to do some taming himself.

It’s seer Makenna Frazier’s first day on the job at Supernatural Protection and Investigations, and her first assignment is more than she bargained for when bodyguard duty for a leprechaun prince’s bachelor party goes every which way but right in national bestselling author Lisa Shearin’s Lucky Charms.

 

 

Review:

Night Shift is an anthology with novellas by 4 authors…Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, Milla Vane and Lisa Shearin. Each of these authors either write Paranormal or Urban Fantasy. It is always difficult to write a review on anthologies, as there is too much risk of giving out spoilers. I will attempt to give you my thougths of each story, without telling too much

Secrets at Midnight by Nalini Singh – Ohhhh, what can I say. This is a Psy/Changeling novella and Bastien is our leopard hero. I am a freak when it comes to Psy/Changeling, and needless to say I was in my glory reading this story. Nalini never fails to amaze me at how story after story, even in a novella she can give us such a great story, a fabulous couple, and allow us to spend time with some of our old favorites, like Lucas, Dorian & Mercy. Bastien was wonderful, as I fell in love with him from the start. He was loving, and patient with Kirby, our heroine.   What mother wouldn’t want a Bastien for their daughter. Kirby was a fantastic mate for Bastien, and the story introducing her and her history was wonderful. When Bastien meets Kirby, he scents a cat, but she is human. It is Bastien who will help Kirby discover the hidden truth about her true destiny. A super fantastic story.   When I finished this book in one sitting, I had a smile on my face the rest of the day.

Magic Steals by Ilona Andrews – I am a big fan of Andrews’ Kate Daniels series, so I was looking forward to reading this one too. Jim is our hero in this book, and he has been one of the mainstays in this series. Jim is a Jaguar shifter, and Curran’s security chief. It was great for him to have his story, and I loved him with Dali, who is Tiger shifter. We started off with Dali preparing dinner for Jim, hoping this would be the night that they would take the next step. Before anything can happen, Dali’s mother comes to ask her to help find a missing person. Jim goes with Dali, who has magic abilities to help solve crimes or end curses. The mystery was very good, with a group of people ina  certain section having attacks brought on by magic. Jim and Dali must find out why and how to stop it. But the best part of this story was the humor between Dali’s family; Jim watching Dali use her magic, and learning more how she works, and Dali seeing how much Jim truly feels about her, and how well they will work together as a team. It was a great story, with a  great couple, and just plain fun.

Lucky Charms by Lisa Shearin – I have not read this author before, so I was not sure what to expect. This is part of her SPI Files series, which only has one book out. Since I did not read the first book, I am not sure if this novella will move forward or is it a prequel. SPI stands for Supernatural Protection & Investigations. There are all kinds of supernatural beings in this story, with seers, werewolves, vampires, dragons, goblins, leprechauns, elves, fae, as well as humans. Mac (Makenna Frazier) is a seer, and she is hired by SPI to help find missing supernatural beings. On her first day of the job, she is pulled into a dangerous mission, meets her hot partner, and team members, who are elves or werewolves. Though there were so many dangerous situations, there was a lot of humor in this story. This was a fun and exciting read, which has me interested to see what else is in store for this series.

The Beast of Blackmoor – Milla Vane (Meljean Brooke) – An angry young warrior asking a priestess for the goddess help to fight evil, is cursed by his disrespectful behavior. Years later, a female warrior arrives in Blackmoor to fulfill her quest from the goddess to tame the beast.

Mala is our heroine, and she is determined to complete the quest given to her by the goddess, so that she can go home and protect her family and townsfolk. Mala is a great warrior, who has faith that her goddess will protect her along the way. The beast is the warrior who has been been “forsaken” yet he battles the monsters to help the town. Kavik is our hero, and when Mala meets him, he is cold, but knows she is the one who will end his curse. When Mala tells him she is to tame the beast, which is him, he expects the taming to be cruel, and refuses to believe otherwise. Together, despite his mistrust, they must fight the evil creatures, and Kavik must learn to find a way to trust Mala and change the curse. Good story, however there some parts I did not care how it was handled.

Overall, this was a great anthology, and for me, I was thrilled to get more of Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews, as well as learning about two other authors to check out for the future.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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