Kissing the Highlander Anthology – Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Posted on February 20, 2015 by Sandy

Kissing the Highlander Anthology-Review,Guest Post & Giveaway

Kissing The Highlander Anthology
by Terry Spear, Eliza Knight, Willa Blair, Vonda Sinclair, Victoria Roberts
Release Date: February 10, 2015
Genre: historical, romance, Highlander

Kissing the Highlander

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /Indigo

KISSING THE HIGHLANDER anthology
by Terry Spear, Eliza Knight, Willa Blair, Victoria Roberts, and Vonda Sinclair
RELEASE DATE: February 10, 2015

KISSING THE HIGHLANDER is an anthology consisting of five Highland historical romance storylines set in the 1600s of the Scottish Highlands. Some of the tales are steeped in Scottish brogues, superstitions and legends of fae, witches and magic. Most of the storylines reference a circle of Standing Stones where legends are born and magic ensues. Because of their fast paced, short length each relationship is a story of insta-love or one of immediate attraction where in the end each of our couples will get their happily ever after. All five short stories can be read as a standalone novella within each respective series but Victoria Roberts’s KILTS AND KISSES ends on a slight cliff hanger leaving the reader wanting to know what happens next.

All of the relationships are love matches; the $ex scenes are intimate without graphic imagery; there is some violence but not vivid. All five authors pull the reader into the sweeping Highlands where green pastures and blue skies make way for building romance between warring clans. Five short stories where Highlanders find their one true love.You can never go wrong with a Highlander !!

••••••••••••••••••••••••

His Wild Highland Lass by Terry Spear

Terry Spear: https://terrylspear.wordpress.com/

Lady Sorcha Barclay fled her brother-in-law’s castle because of his unwanted advances. An awe-inspiring circle of standing stones captures her attention and she captures the attention of the laird who owns the land.

Laird Ronan Daziel takes Sorcha to his castle to protect her and give her a home. Before long, he wants much more. He’s duty-bound to take a wife whose clan wishes an alliance with his. So why does he long to have something more? Everyone loves the lass as much as he does. But he has pledged his loyalty to his clan. Taking Sorcha to wife could lead to battle on several fronts. How can he wed another when she stole his heart from the first moment he laid eyes on her near the ancient standing stones on his lands?

REVIEW: HIS WILD HIGHLAND LASS is a prequel novella to Terry Spear’s THE HIGHLANDERS historical romance, (slightly paranormal) series. For fans of the series you may recognize James MacNeil; in the novella James is only five years old.

The storyline follows the introduction and subsequent marriage of Laird Ronan Daziel and Lady Sorcha Barclay. Sorcha is on the run from her brother in law and finds solace in the arms of Laird Ronan. What ensues is a story of insta-love in the Highlands of Scotland. The novella can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. If you are a fan of historical romances blended with Highlander heat, then Terry Spear’s The Highlanders series is sure to please.

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The Highlander’s Charm by Eliza Knight

Eliza Knight: http://www.elizaknight.com/

They should be enemies… But passion and love know no bounds.

Returning from France to his family’s manor in England, Samuel de Mowbray discovers that his two younger sisters have been stolen away to the Highlands by the Sutherland brothers. Determined to save his sisters from the hands of vicious warriors, he convinces the king to send him north on a mission. While there he discovers not only that his loyalties are beginning to waver but that a head-strong, feisty lass could destroy everything he believes.

Catriona Buchanan needs to travel north to gain the help of her distant relations in saving her brother and ridding her castle of brutal English knights. Unfortunately, it appears the only way to escape their clutches is by trusting in the very thing she mistrusts the most—an Englishman. Minute by minute, the man who should be her enemy breaks down her defenses. There is something different about him and she can’t help but be captivated by Samuel, and his steamy kisses.

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S CHARM is an historical, Highlander romance novella focusing on Samuel De Mowbray and Catriona Buchanan. For fans of Eliza Knight’s STOLEN BRIDES Highlander series, Samuel is the brother of Arbella and Aliah Mowbray first introduced in The Highlander’s Reward (book 1) and The Highlander’s Conquest (book 2).

The storyline follows Catriona and Samuel’s escape from Castle Buchanan. When an English regiment invaded the castle, Catriona found her knight in shining armor was none other than one of the Englishman who stormed the castle. A journey across country finds Catriona and Samuel falling in love but not before Samuel’s life is threatened and he nearly dies.

The reader is reintroduced to Arbella and Aliah, as well as their husbands and we get a little more information about their history and story. This novella can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. The epilogue fast forwards the series six months where Samuel will be offered a liaison position between Scotland and England.

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Heart of Stone by Willa Blair

Willa Blair: http://willablair.com/

Riding home after two years away, Gavan MacNabb encounters a lass and her deerhound in a moonlit circle of standing stones. Little does he know the garland of bluebells she weaves and the spell she sings will change the course of his life.

Marsali Murray doesn’t really believe the old wives’ tale that making a chain of bluebells by the standing stones under a waxing moon will bring true love, but she’s desperate to try anything to escape the boring, everlasting sameness of her life. Anything except marrying a man her father chooses for her. When her deerhound, Corrie, insists on following Gavan, Marsali decides that’s the excuse she needs to have the adventure she craves. She’ll go where he goes, whether or not he is the man promised by her spell.

Gavan has already seen much of the world denied to Marsali. He’s ready to settle down. She is eager to spread her wings. Can they find what they need with each other?

REVIEW: HEART OF STONE is a prequel novella to Willa Blair’s Highland Talents historical, Highland romance series. This is Gavan MacNabb and Marsali Murray’s storyline. Some of the series characters are introduced and fans of the Highland Talents will recognize some of the names.

Marsali is a woman who knows her prospects for a husband are slim at the family Keep, so she tempts fate and magic-enter Gavan MacNabb-the man with whom she would start her new adventure but a man betrothed to someone else. While Marsali looks to the future, her father will see that her future is with someone else.

HEART OF STONE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. No prior knowledge of the series is necessary for your enjoyment. The premise looks at family life and duty when your are neither the heir nor ‘the spare.’ Sometimes you have to create a new path from which to carve your own future.

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Kilts and Kisses by Victoria Roberts

Victoria Roberts: http://victoriarobertsauthor.com/

Since the deaths of her parents, Ceana Gunn has lived in the shadow of her uncle and his family. She wants nothing more than to see her clan the way it was when her father was still laird. But her uncle has other ideas. Ceana soon discovers that the only refuge to be found is in the last place she expects—the arms of her enemy.

Luthais MacKay wants to be left alone. His only interest is training his prized hawks. He certainly doesn’t have time to listen to the petty squabbling of his clan when his father travels to Edinburgh and leaves him in charge. But when Luthais discovers a mysterious woman on his lands, he’s determined to unravel her secrets…one layer at a time.

REVIEW: KILTS AND KISSES is the second installment and first novella in Victoria Roberts’s historical, romance Highland Spies series. This is Ceana Gunn and Luthais MacKay’s storyline.

Victoria Roberts pulls the reader into a tale of forbidden love between enemy clans. While Ceana believes the magic of the standing stones has brought Luthais MacKay into her life, it is the thawing heart of her cousin Sorcha that seals the deal for our Highland couple.

KILTS AND KISSES is a story of insta-love between Luthais and Ceana. As Ceana longs for a husband and lover, she is doomed to watch from the sidelines as her aunt and uncle bring any number of suitors for her younger cousin. What ensues is a case of mistaken identity and apologetic amends from a woman who has uncovered a lie.

KILTS AND KISSES can be read as a stand alone but ends on a bit of a cliff hanger. I am not sure when and if the story is to be continued, but it does leave the reader wanting more.

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My Captive Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Vonda Sinclair: http://www.vondasinclair.com/

Can unexpected passion and a little ancient magic turn enemies into lovers?

During a fierce storm on the west coast of Scotland, Shamus MacKenzie barely survives a galley wreck only to be captured and held for ransom by the enemy MacDonalds.

Aided by the gift of second sight, Maili MacDonald, sister of the ruthless chief, senses the handsome, dark-haired stranger will somehow be important in her life. Compelled to help him, she insists on providing him food and a healer to see to his injuries. She knows she is daft to fall in love with this captivating warrior after one forbidden kiss but cannot help herself. With each visit from Maili, Shamus finds his thoughts consumed by the enchanting lass.

Can he convince her to help him escape the dungeon and prevent the impending battle between the two clans?

REVIEW: MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER is a Highlander novella in Vonda Sinclair’s HIGHLAND ADVENTURE historical romance (slightly paranormal) series. This is Shamus MacKenzie and Maili MacDonald’s storyline-a tale of forbidden love between warring clans.

Maili has the gift of second sight and she is drawn to Shamus MacKenzie-a prisoner, held for ransom, in her brother’s dungeons-a man she believes to be her future mate. Beaten but not down, Shamus finds himself drawn to his captor’s sister and pleads with Maili to help him escape but Maili’s brother has other plans for both the prisoner and his sister.

MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER is another short story of insta-love between two people from warring Highland clans. Vonda Sinclair pulls the reader into a story of romance where falling in love can be a dangerous thing.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

It’s wonderful to be back at The Reading Café today. Thanks so much for having us.
Willa Blair, Eliza Knight, Vonda Sinclair, Terry Spear and I are here to celebrate our newest release Kissing the Highlander. The anthology contains five brand new novellas by bestselling authors of Highland romances that will delight you with mystery, intrigue, romance, drama and so much more!

This was such a fun project, especially since we love all things Scottish. Set in different time periods, our five tales share a common theme: that love can be found with a little help from ancient standing stones and a wee kiss or two.

We hope you enjoy the blurbs from our wee tales.

Victoria

••••••••••••••••••

Willa Blair, author of Heart of Stone:
Marsali Murray doesn’t really believe weaving a chain of bluebells within the circle of standing stones under a waxing moon will bring true love, but she’s desperate for more adventure than she’ll ever have in her remote village. Little does Gavan MacNabb know the lass he meets one moonlit night, the spell she sings and her determined deerhound will change the course of his life.

Eliza Knight, author of The Highlander’s Charm
English knight Samuel de Mowbray is determined to save his sisters from the Highlanders who stole them. But while in Scotland his loyalties waver and a feisty, headstrong lass could destroy everything he believes. Determined to save her clan, Catriona Buchanan must travel north to ask for help. Unfortunately, to do so, she must trust the Englishman. But there is something different about him and she can’t help but be captivated by Samuel, and his steamy kisses.

Victoria Roberts, author of Kilts and Kisses
Ceana Gunn wants nothing more than to see her clan the way it was when her father was still laird. But her uncle has other ideas. Ceana soon determines that the only refuge to be found is in the arms of her enemy. When Luthais MacKay is left in charge of the MacKay clan, he discovers a mysterious woman on his lands and vows to unravel her secrets…one layer at a time.

Vonda Sinclair, author of My Captive Highlander
After a galley wreck in a storm, Shamus MacKenzie is taken hostage by the enemy MacDonalds. Maili, sister of the ruthless chief, feels compelled to bring this dark warrior food and see to his injuries. With one forbidden kiss, Shamus steals her heart. Can he convince the enchanting lass to help him escape the dungeon, preventing a battle between their clans and saving many lives?

Terry Spear, author of His Wild Highland Lass
Lady Sorcha Barclay fled her brother-in-law’s castle due to his unwelcome advances. A circle of standing stones captures her attention and she catches the eye of the local laird. Laird Ronan Daziel gives Sorcha a home. He’s duty-bound to take a wife to ensure a clan pact. Taking Sorcha to wife could lead to battle. How can he wed another when she stole his heart?

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Giveaway-Black and Yellow

Scotland’s dramatic landscapes have witnessed thousands of years of human history. No one truly knows what secrets the mysterious standing stones hold. What do you believe? One commenter will receive a paperback copy of Kissing the Highlander (US and Canada only, please.)

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.

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3. PLEASE answer the following question: Scotland’s dramatic landscapes have witnessed thousands of years of human history. No one truly knows what secrets the mysterious standing stones hold. What do you believe?

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9. Giveaway runs from February 20-24,2015

The Gilded Cuff by Lauren Smith – Review & Giveaway

Posted on February 19, 2015 by Barb

The Gilded Cuff by Lauren Smith – Review & Giveaway

The Gilded Cuff
Surrender #1
by Lauren Smith
Release Date:February 10, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

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

Description:
Journalist Sophie Ryder has been following Emery Lockwood’s story since she was a little girl. There has always been something in his haunted eyes that she couldn’t resist and now, when she’s certain he holds the key to solving a string of kidnappings, she’ll do anything to speak to him. Even if it means venturing deep into the seductive world of the Gilded Cuff, a luxurious BDSM club on Long Island’s Gold Coast and Emery’s personal playground.

From the moment Sophie enters his shadowy, sensual domain, Emery Lockwood knows this tantalizing new little sub was meant to belong to him. However, Sophie wants more from Emery than just pleasure . . . she wants his past. And that is something he isn’t willing to give—no matter who is asking. But every moment he spends with Sophie, Emery feels his control slipping and he knows it’s only a matter of time before he surrenders to her heart, body, and soul.

Review:

THE GILDED CUFF is the first book in a new series by Lauren Smith. Investigative journalist, Sophie Ryder will do anything to meet Emery Lockwood. He and his twin were kidnapped as little boys and she feels that she can help him solve the mystery of his kidnapping and bring justice to his family. The problem is Emery is a reclusive billionaire. She goes undercover in a luxurious BDSM club to meet this recluse, but did Sophie bite off more than she can handle? Well, throwing her shoe at a Dom isn’t the wisest thing to do! Emery is fascinated with this new “sub” and promises her some exclusive information if she becomes his playmate for a time. Let the fun begin!

Sophie enters the amazing world of Long Island’s Gold Coast. Even though the novel starts in a BDSM club, I would describe the novel as more of a romance with a lot of steam! It touches on the erotic world of BDSM, but in a tasteful way. Sophie doesn’t know what she has signed up for and has some adjustments to Emery’s lifestyle which she readily embraces. She has solved many cold cases with the police and feels that she can help the Lockwood family. Emery is opening up for the first time in years and retells the horrific details of when he and his twin were kidnapped as boys and the loss of his brother. He has a major case of PTSD, hence his reclusive nature. He is truly a tortured hero who is extremely vulnerable. I think the mystery behind the kidnapping was my favorite part of the novel and things are not neatly tied up at the end. I can’t what to read what happens in future installments! We only scratched the surface of why someone would kidnap little boys and not demand a ransom!

Lauren Smith creates the most intriguing secondary characters. They include Emery’s lifelong bodyguard, his tech geek and two other Doms from the club. My favorite was Hayden, Sophie’s new girlfriend who is the sister of one of the Dom’s. She plays a major part at the end of THE GILDED CUFF and is a true heroine! I can’t wait for her story!

I can’t give away too much of the plot without spoilers, but if you love a great mystery with a giant dose of steam and a beautiful love story, you will swoon over this novel! I can’t wait for the next one!

Reviewed by Jules

Copy provided by Author

giveaway

Lauren is graciously offering a $10.00 GIFT CARD (Amazon or B&N) 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.

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4. Please FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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6. Please LIKE us on TSU for an additional entry.

7. Follow Lauren Smith on Twitter.

8. Giveaway is open to Internationally

9. Giveaway runs from February 19-22, 2015

Bitten by a Hellcat (Eternal Mates #6) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Posted on February 19, 2015 by Sandy

Bitten by a Hellcat (Eternal Mates #6) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Bitten by a Hellcat, the sixth book in New York Times best-seller Felicity Heaton’s hot paranormal romance series, Eternal Mates, is now available in ebook and paperback. To celebrate the release, she’s holding a FANTASTIC GIVEAWAY at her website and sharing sneak peeks of the book. This book works as a standalone, so it’s perfect for those new to the series too.

Find out how to enter the Bitten by a Hellcat international giveaway (ends March 1st) and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website, where you can also download a 5 chapter sample of the novel:

http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/bitten-by-a-hellcat-paranormal-romance-novel.php

Bitten by a Hellcat
Eternal Mates #6
by Felicity Heaton
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance
Release Date: February 17, 2015

bittenbyahellcat

Amazon.com / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

The sole remaining member of the most famous shifter hunter family in history, Owen Nightingale is a mercenary and a man with a secret held in his closely guarded heart, but when a beautiful rare shifter catches his eye and offers him a job, he has the feeling he’ll be the one paying for helping her—with his heart.

Cait is in a spot of trouble with a capital T. A male hellcat has set his sights on claiming her and she’s one kitty who doesn’t want a collar. When she meets a dark, alluring and mysterious hunter, she sees a chance to rid herself of the male, but the price Owen sets and the fierce passion that burns white-hot between them lures her dangerously under his seductive spell.

Can Owen discover the true intent of the male hellcat and stop Cait from falling into his hands? And can Cait retain control as the heat of desire burns between her and Owen, or will a reckless moment seal both of their fates forever?

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BITTEN BY A HELLCAT is the sixth installment in Felicity Heaton’s adult, contemporary Eternal Mates paranormal romance series. This is shifter hunter Owen Nightingale and hellcat Cait’s storyline. BITTEN BY A HELLCAT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from alternating third person points of view, the focus of the storyline finds Cait ‘hiring’ Owen Nightingale for a job taking down a man who has been stalking Cait for a very long time. Cait claims the male hellcat believes Cait is his mate but there is another reason Cait has been targeted by the dark and dangerous shifter. When Owen, a human with some power of his own, agrees to hunt for Cait’s stalker, he didn’t expect to fall in love with the feisty and beautiful woman.

Owen is a hunter by blood and heritage-a mercenary for hire-who is tasked with bringing in the supernatural species. Off the clock and recovering from a recent attack, Owen recognizes the fire in Cait’s eyes-a fire known only to belong to the elusive and infamous hellcat. He is not on the job but his need to protect Cait comes with some unknown and uncomfortable feelings.

The relationship finds our H/h immediately attracted to one another-a mutual attraction that quickly leads to a rushed sexual encounter between our leading couple. Cait’s inner hellcat knows that Owen is their mate but Owen is trying to keep some distance as he searches for the man on Cait’s tail. There is no prior history between Cait and Owen but they are first introduced book 4-Hunted by a Jaguar which runs parallel to some of the events in Bitten by a Hellcat. The $ex scenes are intimate, provocative and arousing.

The world building continues with the familiarity of the shifter night club known as Underworld but the only familiar face and name in the early pages is jaguar shifter Kyter (Hunted by a Jaguar)-the owner and club bartender. Felicity Heaton continues to tease the fans of her Eternal Mates series with brief glimpses at the immortal elf Commander Bleu and the possibility that his mate is a rare species-indeed.

The secondary and supporting characters include Marius-the hellcat hunting for Cait; Owen’s cousin; and the copious number of supernatural species who make a cameo appearance throughout the story. Bleu’s potential mate will be imprisoned but continues to sense when ever ‘he’ is near.

BITTEN BY A HELLCAT is very much a narrative that reflects on some of Owen’s family history but does not go into detail about Cait’s background or her time in Hell. The communication between our couple is limited as we follow along with the building relationship, romance and journey. And like the title implies, Owen will be bitten but his transformation will not be easy.

Felicity Heaton, once again, invites you into an addicting world of the supernatural; a world of shapeshifters, demons, witches and more. The erotic and sensual love scenes are powerful; the matings are intense. Another welcome addition to Felicity’s Eternal Mates paranormal series.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

Bitten by a Hellcat – Excerpt
Cait could only blink as Owen made a swift exit, leaving her standing in the centre of the eggshell blue room. She looked around, wondering what he expected her to do while he changed, and why he had felt the sudden need to do such a thing. Sometimes, on rare occasions, she didn’t understand males.
She sighed, sat on the leather couch opposite the black marble fireplace and perused the magical items on the square wooden table again. There were many different types. Some looked as if they were meant for defence, while others appeared to be used to heal.Her gaze drifted to a not so magical healing item near the right corner of the table. A white bottle of pills. She carefully turned the pot around and read the label. Prescription medicine of some kind. She wasn’t familiar with the name of the contents.She placed her palms on her knees and sat in silence for a while, staring at the unlit fire, listening for a sign of Owen. She wasn’t sure how many minutes had passed since he had rushed from the room, but she felt certain he wasn’t going to return anytime soon.Cait slid her gaze towards the weapons and then to the door behind her. She was sure he wouldn’t mind if she looked around a little. It could be considered making herself comfortable.She rose to her feet and padded around the room, snooping at his books first. Most of them were tomes about different species, but others were diaries. She read several interesting entries dated from before she had been born over four centuries ago, and then set the book back on the wooden shelf. She trailed the fingers of her right hand across the spines of the others as she walked, heading towards the wall with the fireplace.
Several portraits hung on the wall, all of them old, and all of them resembling Owen in some way. His family. The men in the paintings had regal bearings, an air of importance about them. That contrasted against Owen. He didn’t seem to share their sense of conceited pride.He had pride, definitely, but not the sort these men in their portraits possessed, a sense of entitlement and that they were better than others, elevated by their cause.Cait wandered on, bored with staring at his ancestors when she wanted to see him, and snuck towards the door. She peered out of it and into the long hallway. The dark green paint and rich wooden floor seemed to suck the light out of the space, turning the mounted and stuffed heads on the walls even more sinister.
She hoped he didn’t intend to add a hellcat head to the array of Hell beasts he had on display. She couldn’t imagine what visitors made of the gigantic, scaly or horned beast heads.Cait glanced back into the living room and mulled over the way Owen had acted since they had arrived at his home.He probably didn’t have many visitors.
She was beginning to doubt he had any and that she was the first person other than Owen to set foot in this house in a very long time.She turned back towards the hallway and froze as her gaze fell on one of the huge mounted heads.

A shiver ran down her spine and she bared her small fangs at the beast that appeared as a blend between a lion and a reptile, hating the way the red eyes seemed to follow her. She had come close to losing her life to one of those wretched monsters more than once while in Hell. They hunted in packs, rabid beasts that didn’t stop once they caught the scent of fresh meat. The only way to get them off your tail was killing them.

Or craftily crossing paths with an unsuspecting demon and using him as a decoy that would then become the target of the pack’s hunt.

Cait had no regrets about using such tactics. Demons could teleport. She couldn’t. They were far more likely to survive a pack of Hell beasts than she was and if they didn’t, it was one less demon in the world. As a creature born of the Devil’s domain, it could be considered her civic duty to dispose of as many of the demons who had revolted against him and set up their own realms in Hell.

A bang echoed through the house.

She snarled and leaped back into the living room, breathing hard as adrenaline surged through her veins and her senses stretched out, seeking what had caused the sudden noise.

Nothing.

She huffed and smoothed her long black hair, trying to calm herself with the motion. It wasn’t like her to be so jittery but the fight with the male hellcat had set her on edge. She had spent most of the night on high alert, constantly aware of the male on a subconscious level, fearing he would attack her again. Even after she had left with Owen through the back door, she hadn’t been able to settle down. She had spent the entire journey wriggling in her seat and using the side mirrors to look behind her, convinced the male was following her somehow.

What if he had?

An ominous whining sound ran through the building, followed by banging and rattling.

Cait forced herself to stay where she was and ignore it. It was nothing. Probably just the house.

What if it was something?

What if it was him?

Her heart exploded into action and she rushed to the large oak table filled with weapons and armed herself with a crossbow. Her hands shook as she loaded it, drawing the string back into position and settling the dart into its cradle. She raised it and looked around the room, pointing the weapon wherever her gaze fell, breathing hard and fighting her ridiculous fear.

The banging came again, louder this time.

Cait raced from the room, tracking Owen’s scent through the building, following it down the green corridor and up another staircase. A softer noise came from ahead of her together with movement on her senses and she bolted in that direction, throwing a panicked glance over her shoulder at the same time, convinced someone was closing in on her in the dark hallway.

A strip of light shone from beneath a wooden door at the end of the corridor.

She shouldered that door open. “I heard something.”

She swung her gaze towards Owen and stopped dead.

The sudden jerk to a halt made her finger depress the trigger on the crossbow and the bolt zipped across the room, shot just above Owen’s left shoulder and thudded into the cream wall behind him where he stood right in front of her.

Naked.

Both of his hands moved in unison, racing to cover himself.

Felicity Heaton is a New York Times and USA Today international best-selling author writing passionate paranormal romance books. In her books, she creates detailed worlds, twisting plots, mind-blowing action, intense emotion and heart-stopping romances with leading men that vary from dark deadly vampires to sexy shape-shifters and wicked werewolves, to sinful angels and hot demons! If you’re a fan of paranormal romance authors Lara Adrian, J R Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter and Christine Feehan then you will enjoy her books too.

If you love your angels a little dark and wicked, the best-selling Her Angel series is for you. If you like strong, powerful, and dark vampires then try the Vampires Realm series or any of her stand-alone vampire romance books. If you’re looking for vampire romances that are sinful, passionate and erotic then try the best-selling Vampire Erotic Theatre series. Or if you prefer huge detailed worlds filled with hot-blooded alpha males in every species, from elves to demons to dragons to shifters and angels, then take a look at the new Eternal Mates series.

If you want to know more about Felicity, or want to get in touch, you can find her at the following places:

Website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk

Blog: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/blog/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/felicityheaton

Twitter: http://twitter.com/felicityheaton

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/felicityheaton

Find all the links, a fantastic 5 chapter downloadable sample of the book, and also how to enter the giveaway and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/craved-by-an-alpha-paranormal-romance-novel.php

Books in the Eternal Mates paranormal romance series:

Book 1: Kissed by a Dark Prince
Book 2: Claimed by a Demon King
Book 3: Tempted by a Rogue Prince
Book 4: Hunted by a Jaguar
Book 5: Craved by an Alpha
Book 6: Bitten by a Hellcat – Coming February 17^th 2015
Book 7: Taken by a Dragon – Coming March 10^th 2015

Giveaway-Black and Deep Blue

Felicity is graciously offering an ecopy of any ONE book in her Eternal Mates Series of
either *Kissed by a Dark Prince*, *Claimed by a Demon King*, or *Tempted by a Rogue Prince* (international) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Make Me Up by Avery Flynn – a Review

Posted on February 18, 2015 by Barb

Make Me Up by Avery Flynn – a Review

Make Me Up Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Former special ops-turned private-investigator Cam Hardy leaves a trail of broken hearts wherever he goes. He’s all charm and sex appeal, and who can blame him for putting it to good use? Besides, it works damn well on the stunning and tough-as-nails makeup artist Drea Sanford. Only this time, Cam may be in over his head…

Drea is trying to keep her naughty affair with Cam a secret. After all, he’s Harbor City’s version of a Casanova…if Casanova had a motorcycle. When Cam makes their hot little liaison known to the public, however, Drea vows never to have sex with him again. Then one of her clients turns up dead. Now Drea is suspect number one—and she needs Cam’s help. But sleeping with him is one thing…trusting him is quite another.

Review:

Make Me Up by Avery Flynn begins with Cam and Drea at a barbecue hosted by their friends. Friends, for the most part, who have no idea that these two have been having an affair of sorts. One that Drea is bound and determined to keep on the down low. When Cam initiates a PDA, that’s it for Drea. She told him what would happen if word ever got out…… And, boy, did it get out.

Drea rushes home, furious, but doesn’t have a lot of time to stew over being outed. She rushes to an appointment with a regular client who is a rich and nasty tempered woman. As Drea is working her make-up magic on said client, things get crazy fast. One moment, she’s admiring her work, the next she screaming for someone to call 911 and watches as her client dies right in front of her. And, who is suspect number one? Drea. But once Cam gets wind of what’s happening, he makes the scene and convinces Drea to tell his childhood friend, and investigating detective, Reggie, what happened.

It doesn’t take Cam long to realize that Drea is in real trouble and as he goes into protection mode, he discovers than an old nemesis of his is directly involved and has set his sights on Drea to take the fall for what’s transpired. What ensues is a pulse pounding, action packed story with an air of mystery that will keep you turning the pages. And, once both Drea and Cam’s backgrounds are revealed to the other, will they be able to overcome their own demons to protect other? Well my friends, you’ll have to read and find out.

Make Me Up is a fun read and the chemistry between Drea and Cam is off the charts. There are several secondary characters that I’d love to read more about, and as I understand it, I think that a couple of them may have already had their stories told, but that fact didn’t take away from being able to read this as a standalone. If you’re looking for a quick, action packed read that is steamy, fun and a bit mysterious, this one is for you. Well done Avery Flynn.

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review,Interview and Book Tour

Posted on February 18, 2015 by Sandy

Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review,Interview and Book Tour

BENNETT_Garrett_bt

Garrett
Cold Fury Hockey #2
by Sawyer Bennett
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance, hockey
Release Date: February 17, 2015

Garrett

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / iTunes

GARRETT (Cold Fury Hockey #2) by Sawyer Bennett

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

Carolina Cold Fury star Garrett Samuelson never wants to miss out on a single minute of fun. Whether he’s playing hockey, hanging out with friends, or walking the red carpet with a new date on his arm, he lives every day to the fullest. When he meets Olivia Case, he sees someone who’s exactly his type—confident, sexy, smart . . . his next fling. But the more he pursues her, the more Garrett shares a side of himself that other women don’t normally get to see.

Olivia has been keeping a secret. While Garrett lives for the next thrill, Olivia’s not sure she’ll live to see the next day. She’s undergoing treatment for some serious medical issues, and she doesn’t have time for a relationship with no guarantees—especially one with a hot-as-sin womanizer who won’t take no for an answer. But as she gets to know the real Garrett, Olivia can’t help falling for him . . . hard. To reveal the truth would mean risking everything—but you can’t score without taking the tough shots.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: GARRETT is the second installment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult Cold Fury Hockey erotic, romance series focusing on the players for the Cold Fury Hockey Team. This is Garrett Samuelson and floral designer Olivia Case’s storyline. Although GARRETT is the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty although I recommend reading in order for the pure enjoyment of this amazing series. Any important background information is revealed where necessary.

Told from alternating first person points of view (Garrett and Olivia) the storyline follows the building relationship between Garrett and Olivia. Olivia and Garrett are first introduced at a summer barbeque for the Cold Fury Hockey Team. Olivia is Sutton Price’s cousin (Alex-book 1) and she is a woman reluctant to get involved with a man like Garrett—a man whose history of one night stands precedes his introduction. But Olivia hides a secret-one that is destroying her life-and in this, she knows that her immediate future is dark and unknown. Olivia refuses to reveal any information to Garrett but he is quick to discover the truth when Olivia’s illness begins to take over her life.

Garrett is a player- a man who likes to play around-both on and off the ice, but finding Olivia immediately puts a halt to Garrett’s sexual exploits- it is an instant change for a man who doesn’t do relationships and has never gone out with a woman more than once. He is drawn to Olivia’s beauty, her laugh and her personality but what Garrett does not know is that Olivia is ill and there is no guarantee of a future for the woman with whom he is falling in love.

The relationship between Garrett and Olivia is one of immediate attraction but soon escalates into something more. Olivia is reluctant to get involved with any man but a few encouraging words from her flamboyant boss and BFF Stevie, finds our heroine in bed with the sexiest man she will ever know. Fast forward and Olivia’s illness becomes front and center in their relationship but Garrett is determined to stay with Olivia until the end. There is some push and pull especially when Olivia is determined to push Garrett out of her life; her future is unknown; their time together undetermined.

The secondary and supporting characters include Alex and Sutton from book one; Zack Grantham (book 3) and many of the hockey players from Cold Fury. We are introduced Olivia’s colorful mother, and Alex’s supporting mom; and Stevie-Olivia’s boss and best friend who is a little more colorful than most. The premise of Zack’s storyline is outlined when a horrific accident sets into motion heartbreak and grief.

The world building continues to follow the Cold Fury Hockey team both on and off the ice. From family to friendships, practice to games, losses and wins, the reader is pulled into the arena, the locker room and the bedrooms of some of professional hockey’s sexiest players.

Sawyer Bennett writes books for adults; with adult situations; and adult problems. She isn’t afraid to tackle the heartbreaking issues including illness and death. GARRETT is a storyline that focuses on love, life and recovery, as well as loss and letting go. Sawyer Bennett invites the reader in and doesn’t let go. But don’t despair, there is a happily ever after and the epilogue reveals a future filled with family and love.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

Alex
Cold Fury Hockey #1
by Sawyer Bennett
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance, hockey
Release Date: October 14, 2014

ALEX by Sawyer Bennett

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: October 14, 2014

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of ALEX by Sawyer Bennett

Hockey star Alexander Crossman has a reputation as a cold-hearted player on and off the rink. Pushed into the sport by an alcoholic father, Alex isn’t afraid to give fans the proverbial middle finger, relishing his role as the MVP they love to hate. Management, however, isn’t so amused. Now Alex has a choice: fix his public image through community service or ride the bench. But Alex refuses to be molded into the Carolina Cold Fury poster boy . . . not even by a tempting redhead with killer curves.

As a social worker, Sutton Price is accustomed to difficult people—like Alex, who’s been assigned to help her create a drug-abuse awareness program for at-risk youth as part of the team’s effort to clean up his image. What she doesn’t expect is the arrogant smirk from his perfect lips to stir her most heated fantasies. But Sutton isn’t one to cross professional boundaries—and besides, Alex doesn’t do relationships . . . or does he? The more she sees behind Alex’s bad-boy façade, the more Sutton craves the man she uncovers.

Interview

TRC: Hi Sawyer and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of GARRETT (Cold Fury Hockey #2)

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

Sawyer Bennett Sawyer: Well, let’s see… I practiced law for 16 years before I decided to start writing, which was a major career change. I’m married and have a one year old daughter, plus three huge, furry dogs who I adore. We all live in one big hairy house in North Carolina.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Sawyer: Oddly, I’m a big paranormal romance reader so I look to some of my favorites like Gena Showalter and Larissa Ione for inspiration, even though I write contemporary romance.

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

Sawyer: Reading!!!! Best way to relax.

TRC: What or who was the inspiration behind the COLD FURY Hockey Team?

Sawyer: Actually, I have to give some credit to Random House. They approached me and suggested a hockey themed romance series, which I loved the idea since I’m a big hockey fan. I decided to base it in my city of Raleigh, North Carolina, and yes, we do have a professional hockey team here but I’m actually a Pittsburgh Penguins fan!!!

Garrett TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of GARRETT?

Sawyer: GARRETT is the classic playboy falling in love type of trope but it’s different in that the woman he falls for is sick and her future is uncertain. While everyone wants the bad boy to fall, you do have to ask yourself is this the type of risk he should take?

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series? Will of the team members have their story told?

Sawyer: Right now there are four books planned. Book three will be Zack and Book four will be Ryker (who is introduced in Zack).

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

Sawyer: The research in this one was a little time consuming because I’m dealing with a medical illness and I wanted to be as accurate as possible. I interviewed a friend who had this same illness, as well as a doctor who treats this illness. I also did some nausea inducing researching on bone marrow biopsies. I now have so much compassion and respect for anyone that has to undergo that procedure.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an instalment with a major cliff hanger?

Sawyer: I actually like series with cliffhangers, as long as I know it going into the book. I can’t stand buying a book where I think I’m getting a stand alone story and then get smacked with the cliffie. But as long as I know it’s coming, I very much enjoy series like that.

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

Sawyer: Damn. That is a fantastic question and I think I direct the characters. I never outline or plot out a book, but tend to write organically, but the one thing I do before I start a manuscript is I do a lot of character building. I always have a good idea of the type of person my hero or heroine is and then I tend to direct them and build the story around that.

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

Sawyer: I’d love to be a #1 New York Times bestselling author, I’d love to sell movie rights and I’d like to write in a new genre like dark thrillers.

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

Sawyer: That’s a hard one because I am a complete open book (no pun intended). I guess I’ll share a phobia of mine. I am terrified of spiders. Like, I go into a panic mode when I see one. I’m ashamed of this, of course.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Sawyer: I’m actually working on a new Legal Affairs serial which will be released in three books, then I’m going to be working on Ryker.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Spaghetti

Favorite Dessert
Anything chocolate!

Favorite TV Show
Buffy the Vampire Slayer or The Walking Dead

Last Movie You Saw
Gone Girl

Favorite Musical Group
The Offspring

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Milk!!!

Secret Celebrity Crush
Chris Hemsworth but that’s not a secret. My husband knows I’d leave him in a heartbeat if Chris ever crooked his finger at me.

Last Vacation Destination
Kiawah Island, SC… that’s where I am right now!!!!

Pet Peeve
Not rinsing the sink out- glaring at my husband

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

About the author

USA Today Best-Selling Author, Sawyer Bennett is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series. She will be releasing her second book in the Cold Fury Hockey Series with Random House Loveswept, February 2015.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

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Play My Game (Stark Ever After) by J. Kenner-a review

Posted on February 17, 2015 by Sandy

PLAY MY GAME (Stark Ever After) by J. Kenner-a review

Play My Game

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE February 17, 2015

Following fan favorites Damien Stark and his wife, Nikki Fairchild, Play My Game is the story of their first Valentine’s Day as newlyweds, and offers an alluring glimpse of Jackson Steele, the alpha male featured in Kenner’s upcoming novel Say My Name.

I never imagined that anything could top our honeymoon, but life as Mrs. Damien Stark is sweeter than any fantasy. We are forever bound by our love and our desire. His touch is my greatest treasure—and is purely mine alone.

Yet no matter where we go, the ghosts of our pasts follow. We can’t escape our secrets, or the people who desperately want to bring us down. Even on Valentine’s Day, neither of us is safe.

I’ll do whatever it takes to protect Damien, to fulfill his every need. His kiss is my calling, his passion my truest bliss. The dangers we face, we now face together—and nothing can make me run.

Play My Game is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: PLAY MY GAME is the latest novella in J. Kenner’s contemporary, adult Stark Ever After erotic romance series focusing on billionaire Damien Stark and the love of his life Nikki Fairchild-Stark. Their continuing story finds our couple about to celebrate their first Valentine’s Day together but someone is playing a dangerous game with the people they love.

The focus of the storyline is two fold: Damien Stark sets up a scavenger hunt in preparation for a Valentine’s celebration with his wife. While Nikki begins to uncover the clues another more deadly game is unfolding-intimate images and threatening blackmail letters begin appearing in emails of friends, family and former lovers. Someone is out to destroy Damien Stark by attacking the people closest to his heart.

We will be introduced to the infamous architect Jackson Steele- a man whose own story will be told in J. Kenner’s upcoming Stark International Trilogy but a man who refuses to give in to Damien Stark’s wishes and demands. When Damien approaches Jackson with a business offer, Jackson declines with reasons he keeps to himself.

PLAY MY GAME is a romantic, intriguing and enticing addition to J. Kenner’s Stark series of novels and spinoffs. What began with a portrait and a million dollar offer in RELEASE ME book 1 has now blossomed into an erotic romance series where anyone with a close connection to our couple finds themselves with a story of their own. One can only hope that we all find a Damien Stark to call our own.

Copy supplied by the author through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About the Author

J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres. Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, Victorian-era thrillers (coming soon), and paranormal mommy lit.

Her foray into the latter, Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner, has been consistently in development in Hollywood since prior to publication. Most recently, it has been optioned by Warner Brothers Television for development as series on the CW Network with Alloy Entertainment producing. JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for him.” A three time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy). Her books have sold well over a million copies and are published in over over twenty countries. In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Bear Attraction (Shifters Unbound 6.5) by Jennifer Ashley-a review

Posted on February 17, 2015 by Sandy

Bear Attraction (Shifters Unbound 6.5) by Jennifer Ashley-a review

Bear Attraction

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

As the military liaison between the human Shifter Bureau and Shiftertown, Walker is often stuck trying to appease both sides—and angering both. So when bear-Shifter Rebecca is captured taking a run in a restricted area, Walker comes up with a compromise: if Rebecca helps him find a missing woman—thought to have been abducted by a Shifter—she won’t be charged and executed.

As a bear used to roaming for miles, Rebecca hates being confined, distrusts anything involving humans, and—worst of all—the strong and handsome Walker starts triggering her mating need. They have no choice but to work together but both Walker and Rebecca find it hard not to mix business with pleasure.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: BEAR ATTRACTION is the latest novella in Jennifer Ashley’s contemporary, adult Shifters Unbound paranormal, romance series focusing on the shifters from Shiftertown USA. This is human Shifter Bureau liaison Walker Danielson and Kodiak bear shifter Rebecca. BEAR ATTRACTION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. As per Jennifer’s style of writing, many of the previous storyline characters and couples play a secondary and supporting role. Any important background information is revealed when necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: Approximately twenty years earlier shifters were exposed to the human population. Out of fear, discrimination and specieism, the shifters were collared in the belief that it would control aggression then forced into segregated communities known as Shiftertowns. There are several Shiftertowns located throughout the world where shifters live in a relative but strained peace amongst their own kind. But once in awhile, a shifter crosses into human territory and the resulting upheaval is handled by the government’s Shifter Bureau. Not all shifters were caught under the Shiftertown ordinance; some remain free and un-collared, while others go rogue and feral.

Told from third person point of view, BEAR ATTRACTION finds Walker and Rebecca working together on an assignment. Technically, Rebecca is under Walker’s custody because she trespassed onto human-owned land and the Shifter Bureau frowns on any shifters leaving their assigned territory. As part of Rebecca’s punishment, she must aid Walker in the search for a missing human female known to frequent shifter bars posing as a shifter groupie. What ensues is a foray into shifter nightlife where our couple finds more trouble at every stop. Even amongst shifters there is discrimination against different kinds.

There is a prior history between Rebecca and Walker; an attraction that finds our couple secretly desiring one another but a desire that has never been acted upon. Throughout the storyline, their attraction builds; there is an overriding need to protect; and the mate bond growing stronger. The $ex scenes are limited but the sexual tension is high-so great that the other shifters sense the mate bond before Rebecca and Walker admit it to themselves.

The secondary roles include many of the previous storyline characters including some of the younger cubs and children. We get an up close look into the shifter’s personal lives, their loves and their families; as well as the introduction to several new characters and the possibility of a shifter breed not previously known to exist.

The world building continues on the theme of discrimination and prejudice against a species because of their differences. Fear is rampant within the human population, perpetuated by the Shifter Bureau whose aim is to control with intimidation and collars.

BEAR ATTRACTION is a fast paced story with a little bit of suspense, mystery, romance, fun and $ex. Jennifer Ashley’s wonderful and passionate family of shifters are a tight knit community where shifters of all species have been welcomed into the town but there is no denying that safety is a matter of degrees. BEAR ATTRACTION is a welcome addition to the Shifters Unbound series and a go-to read every time.

Reading Order
.5. Shifter Made
1. Pride Mates
2. Primal Bonds
2.5 Body Guard
3. Wild Cat
3.5 Hard Mated
4. Mate Claimed
4.5 Lone Wolf
5. Tiger Magic
5.5 Feral Heat
6. Wild Wolf
6.5 Bear Attraction

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

The Highest Tide (Eden #4) by Marian Perera-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on February 17, 2015 by Sandy

The Highest Tide (Eden #4) by Marian Perera-Review, Interview and Giveaway

The Highest Tide
Eden #4
by Marian Perera
Genre: adult, sharkpunk, romance
Release Date: February 17, 2015

The Highest Tide

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

THE HIGHEST TIDE (Eden #4) by Marian Perera

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

One touch, and the tide isn’t all that’s rising.

When brothel health inspector Jason Remerley finds a uniformed woman waiting impatiently in the Velvet Court parlor, wanting to hire a man’s services, he’s struck by lightning. His intense, immediate attraction compels him to pretend his way into her arms.

Enough silver, and most men forget about Captain Lera Vanze’s half-burned face. She senses something off about the handsome, ill-dressed prostitute who sells himself so cheaply. But with his first touch, goose bumps turn to shivers of desire—right before the truth drives them in opposite directions.

Her fury is still simmering when they face each other in a more “official” capacity. She’s joined a warship to stop a terrorist only Jason can identify. Though trust is scarce, they’re swept away in a tidal wave of murderous plots and an explosive attraction that could leave them marooned in an emotional—and very real—minefield.

Warning: She knows how to wield her sword, he knows just how, when, and where to apply his…mind. Contains deception in a brothel, sex in a cave, a shark with a bad habit, and one very large wave.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HIGHEST TIDE is the fourth installment in Marian Perera’s adult EDEN sharkpunk meets steampunk romance series. This is steamship Captain Lera Vanze and health inspector Jason Remerley’s storyline. Although this is the fourth in the series, THE HIGHEST TIDE can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty. The exception could be the lack of familiarity with the fantasy world that the author has been building for several installments. Some of the previous storyline characters also make an appearance.

Told from several third person points of view the storyline follows Lera and Jason on a voyage across hazardous waters where not only are the pirates dangerous but the seas as well. Lera and Jason’s introduction to one another was built upon a lie. Working as a brothel inspector, Jason is approached by a young woman looking for an evening of sex, with no commitments, believing Jason to be one of the brothel workers. What ensues is Jason’s desire for the scarred and feisty woman whom he couldn’t get out of his mind.

The premise finds one of Lera’s crew mates ordered by the authorities to aid in locating a suspected terrorist. Kovir Stripe Caller, a seventeen year old Seawatch operative with a shark familiar is tasked with finding an underwater explosive device before it detonates. In order to protect her young charge, Lera volunteers to go with Kovir on the voyage and is surprised to discover that Jason is also along for the ride. What follows is a volatile and dangerous mission where violence, retribution and revenge trigger a madman’s warped sense of right and wrong.

The relationship between Lera and Jason begins as an accidental ‘workplace’ meeting building to friendship then love. Our couple will encounter pirates, kidnappers, storms and a war not of their making. Castaway on an island, the $ex scenes between Lera and Jason are intimate but not overly graphic. Lera is a woman who has been burned; the scars are a reminder of the past; a past about which very few know. Jason’s attraction and need to aid Lera find him on the run facing an unknown future upon his return.

The secondary and supporting characters are numerous; from shipmates and crews to government officials and pirating thieves. We will be introduced (or re-introduced) to steamship captains and powerful industry players. There are moments of violence and revenge; romance and love; intrigue, espionage and suspense.

The sharkpunk/steampunk formula builds upon the premise and genre of science fiction meets steam-powered machinery in an age where technology is new within an alternative history and world. Combine this with the paranormal world of psychic communication with sharks, you have a classification for the genre of sharkpunk; a belief systems of gods and deities, historical lore, and romanticized mythology becomes a recipe for a fantasy of action and adventure on the high seas.

Marian Perera’s world of sharkpunk is new to this reader. With the combination of steampunk meets the supernatural meets one of the world’s most dangerous predators you have an amalgamation that is sure to rouse the curious and tweak the minds of fantasy lovers.

Reading Order
Before The Storm
The Deepest Ocean
The Farthest Shore
The Highest Tide

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview-Gold

TRC: Hi Marian and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of THE HIGHEST TIDE.

MarianPerera Marian: Thanks for hosting me! I’m happy to be here, and new book day is always special.

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

Follow Marian: Website / Twitter /Goodreads/

Marian: I’ve lived in places as far apart as Sri Lanka, Texas and Nunavut. I love spicy food, once wrote Transformers fanfics, and have used my keyboard for so long the only letters that haven’t been worn off the keys at all are Q, Z and X. Maybe some day I’ll write about a heroine called Zyza Quinx and get rid of those too.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Marian: On the fantasy side, Tolkien was a major influence—so much so it took me a while to break out of the traditional high fantasy mindset. I’m glad there’s so much variety in that genre now—other spec-fic authors who have influenced me worldbuilding-wise are George R. R. Martin, Jack Vance and Tanith Lee.

In romance, I love me some Pamela Morsi historicals, Mary Balogh’s prostitute-heroine stories, Lorraine Heath’s Texas novels and Courtney Milan’s historicals. The three most important things I learned from reading romances and women’s fiction are : evoke emotion, stoke the sexual tension high, and create a vivid, atmospheric setting. Anne Stuart, Joanne Harris and Philippa Gregory are excellent at the setting part (among their other strengths).

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

Marian: Relax… relax… yes, I remember doing that once. Well, there are always books that need reading, and I enjoy calligraphy. Learning to make my own bookmarks now…And I collect keychains…

TRC: Your bio states your write fantasy with a scientific twist? Would you please explain?

Marian: A dash of science is a great way to shake up a fantasy world (look at what new discoveries or advances in technology have done to ours, over and over). For instance, what if the last free nation, in a final attempt to withstand a conquering empire, developed germ warfare?

I’ve written more or less traditional fantasies, with magic and dragons, where the main character is a photographer. Or a psychologist. The science grounds the fantasy and the fantasy allows the science to be taken in new and unexpected directions to influence the story.

TRC: THE HIGHEST TIDE is the fourth installment in your EDEN series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Marian: The continent of Eden is divided into five medieval lands which are more or less equal—one nation has magic, for instance, but another has the Tree of Life (that’s why it’s called Eden). But when steam engines and cannons are developed in one particular land, the balance shifts. Arms races begin. Governments plan how to seize their share, if not more, of this new power, and eventually there will be no neutral ground in Eden.

But that’s the fantasy part. The romance side of it is ordinary people competing in races with their newly built steamships, forging bonds with foreigners from other lands—and falling in love. The specter of impending war is still in the background. For now.

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

Marian: Each romance features a different main couple, so they can be read alone, but it’s even more fun to read them in order. Fewer spoilers that way, too!

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Marian: I’m working on THE REDDEST WATER (the one with the rabid shark, Jaws meets Cujo) and I’d need maybe three more books to completely wrap it up.

TRC: You have labeled the genre SHARKPUNK romance. What is SHARKPUNK romance and what qualifies a storyline to be labeled as such?

Marian: Just as there’s steampunk and biopunk, there’s sharkpunk. Take the shark away and the story is dead in the water, pun intended.

Only THE COLDEST SEA, coming out in May, deviates from this. Certain species of shark would be fine in the freezing waters next to an iceberg, but their human operatives would die of hypothermia.

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

Marian: Oh, where to start?

I researched sailing ships and steamships, how to cause a tidal wave with explosives, shark biology and behavior, how killer whale echolocation works. But writing this series was also a great reason to watch Master and Commander, Jaws, The Caine Mutiny and Das Boot.

The most interesting challenge for me, though, was to have romances between very different characters in each book. That meant, for each couple, the conflict would be original. A serious problem for Miri and Alyster in THE FARTHEST SHORE (she’s what his people consider a half-breed) isn’t an issue for Jason and Lera in THE HIGHEST TIDE, even though those two are from completely different lands.

eden series

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

Marian: It’s both. I decide who the characters are—especially the traits that will bring them into conflict with each other, like Lera’s directness vs. Jason’s, um, creative interpretation of the truth—but after that, they’re on their own. The stories just wouldn’t work without those particular characters.

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

Marian: Give readers something they can identify with. I love romances where either the hero or heroine must carefully save their money, or where the heroine’s community disapproves of her independence. I understand both of those, and I sympathize muchly. But at the same time, some of the keepers on my romance shelves feature unusual professions or locales or characters. I find those just as intriguing, in a different way. What’s different is often fascinating.

Fails are when the characters do nothing interesting at the start; I once read a soulmate romance which began with the hero moping because he hadn’t met his True Love yet. I like characters with practical goals beyond “get married and live happily ever after”. Also, while flaws are fine, some of my pet peeves are misogynistic heroes and women so overwhelmed by a man’s hotness that they constantly blush, stammer and trip over their own feet.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Marian: I always have other ideas in mind, so I could work on those projects instead. But nearly always, writers’ block means there’s some issue with the story that I haven’t consciously identified just yet.

With THE COLDEST SEA, I originally had the heroine leaving home because she didn’t want to marry a certain man. Then she met the hero and was attracted to him. After four chapters I knew this setup wasn’t working, because there was no conflict.

I wrote out ideas for such conflict in a dialogue-with-myself form, and then realized the answer: yes, she’s still leaving home. But it’s because her fiance didn’t want to marry her; he jilted her. She’s still in love with him, though, and she believes if she just waits long enough, he’ll realize he was wrong. Now, when she meets the hero, she’s torn between him and her ex-fiance. After that, the story wrote itself.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Marian: Just ideas? I don’t. To me, the idea is the starting point—I still need characters, plot and setting, at a minimum. I have dozens of ideas, and rarely need feedback on those because almost any idea could be made into a good story (unless the idea is something out of How Not To Write A Novel). It’s the execution that matters.

That said, I find the Absolute Write forums invaluable in terms of discussion with other writers, and especially for technical information. I’ve asked lots of questions there on topics as diverse as developing photographs from glass plates and the explosive potential of flour, and have received a lot of helpfuul information.

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

Marian:
Write a fantasy novel and query that.
Visit either France or Japan.
Clean out the attic. If no one sees or hears of me after year five, you’ll know what happened.

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

Marian: While Marian has always been my legal first name, no one ever used it until I turned 18.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Marian: The next Eden novel and a Christmas romance, one of a trilogy inspired by A Christmas Carol. Each features a ghost from the original story.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Marian: I blog about writing and publishing my favorite genres at Flights of Fantasy and have long juicy excerpts of my books at Marian Perera.com. I’m also trying to Tweet more, so look me up @MDPerera.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite TV Show

Ever Decreasing Circles, a Britcom from the ‘80s.

Last Movie You Saw

Othello, the version starring Lawrence Fishburne and Kenneth Branagh.

Favorite Musical Group

Either Roxette or Nightwish, depending on whether I’m in the mood for pop or metal.

Dark or Milk Chocolate

Dark, like my men.

Secret Celebrity Crush

Alexander Siddig, back in his Deep Space Nine days.

Last Vacation Destination

Nova Scotia. It was so much fun—I got to pick apples, picnic on the beach, and go through a corn maze. I pretended I was in Children of the Corn, and He Who Walks Behind The Rows was coming to get me.

Do you have any pets?

Not yet, but I always wanted a cat. Previously where I lived, a neighbor’s orange tabby used to wander around, so I’d coax him in with a laser pointer and play with him for an hour or so. Until one day he came in with a note around his neck saying “Please do not let me into your house.”

Pet Peeve

Homophobia.

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

Marian: Thanks again for hosting me. I enjoyed the interview!

giveaway

Marian is graciously offering an ecopy of THE HIGHEST TIDE to TWO (2) commenters (international) and a paper copy to ONE (1) commenter (US/Canada only).

Please note: The paper copy of THE HIGHEST TIDE will not be available until June 2015. The US/CANADA winner has the option of choosing an ecopy if you do not want to wait.

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.

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8. ebook Giveaway is open INTERNATIONAL: paper book giveaway is open to USA / Canada only.

9. Giveaway runs from February 17-21, 2015

The Reading Cafe

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Monthly Archives: February 2015

Kissing the Highlander Anthology – Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Kissing the Highlander Anthology-Review,Guest Post & Giveaway

The Gilded Cuff by Lauren Smith – Review & Giveaway

The Gilded Cuff by Lauren Smith – Review & Giveaway

Bitten by a Hellcat (Eternal Mates #6) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Bitten by a Hellcat (Eternal Mates #6) by Felicity Heaton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Make Me Up by Avery Flynn – a Review

Make Me Up by Avery Flynn – a Review

Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review,Interview and Book Tour

Garrett (Cold Fury Hockey #2) by Sawyer Bennett-Review,Interview and Book Tour

Play My Game (Stark Ever After) by J. Kenner-a review

PLAY MY GAME (Stark Ever After) by J. Kenner-a review

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Bear Attraction (Shifters Unbound 6.5) by Jennifer Ashley-a review

Bear Attraction (Shifters Unbound 6.5) by Jennifer Ashley-a review

The Highest Tide (Eden #4) by Marian Perera-Review, Interview and Giveaway

The Highest Tide (Eden #4) by Marian Perera-Review, Interview and Giveaway