Monthly Archives: April 2015

Unblocked Part 2 by Marni Mann – Review, Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by
9

Unblocked Part 2 by Marni Mann – Review, Spotlight and Giveaway

 

Unblocked 2Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Description:

One taste was all it took.
Derek Block demands more.
Frankie Jordan wants to run.
Pleasure complicates business.
But some passion is just too hard to resist.
Things are getting hotter as real estate gets real….
This is Episode Two of the five-episode Timber Towers novella series.

 

Review:

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

I HATE serial series!
I LOVE serial series!
I SUPER LOVE THIS serial series!

Ok, so I admit when I read a serial series that I wait for the entire series to be completed and then marathon read it so any cliffhangers do not leave me hanging for long .. BUT .. when you are reviewing a series as it is being released you certainly do not have that option … so here I am hanging super high from this cliff, cursing Marni Mann and eagerly anticipating the next episode.  SIGH!  LOL

Unblocked is Part Two of Marni Mann‘s serial series call Timber Towers.  It is the continuation of Derek and Frankie’s story and let me tell you, my e-reader was steaming (or maybe that was me .. WINK).  Frankie is the top real estate agent in her city and is about to land a major contract of Derek’s building.  These two have instant chemistry, and severe attraction between them, but both have concerns with regards to keeping their relationship strictly professional.  Well one taste is all it takes for the personal and professional lines to become blurred. 

This episode was a little but more revealing.  We are being set up for a juicy revenge plot, a past Frankie cannot seem to get away from and a massive battle between heart and will.  You know that Derek may believe in black and white thinking (one night Derek .. really???), but when it comes to Frankie there is a whole lot of shade.

Major cliffhanger with this one and I CAN’T WAIT for the next!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel
Copy provided by Author

 

excerpt

“I held her wrists above her head and leaned down so she could feel my words, not just hear them. “I give you what I want, when I want – my fingers, my mouth, my tongue…” My hand dropped to my zipper. I fisted the crotch of my jeans. “Even my fucking cock. Understood?”
I expected her to pull back, but her focus seemed to soften as her eyes traveled down my stomach and settled on my hand. I released the bulge so she could get a better look at my dick.
She licked her lips. “Got it.”
I knelt on the bed and straddled her body, holding her hands against the headboard. I had made a special request for this bed, I wanted something wooden, with slats on the headboard, carved and sanded, so the finish was smooth on all four sides. I knew she could handle the rubbing, but I didn’t want her skin cut or splintered.
“You’re not going to tie me up…”
I weaved the flannel around her wrists and secured the knots to the headboard. “I’m not?” The shirt was tight enough to prevent her from moving, but loose enough to allow circulation.
She glanced at my handiwork. “You warned me that you would do this…I never thought you really would.”
“Don’t ever doubt me, Frankie. I always keep my promises.”


 


about the author

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

Facebook / Twitter /  Instagram / Website

 

 

rafflecopter giveaway

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


a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Share

Blessed are Those Who Weep by Kristi Belcamino – a Review

Posted on by
9

Blessed are Those Who Weep by Kristi Belcamino – a Review

 

Blessed are Those Who WeepAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
San Francisco Bay Area reporter Gabriella Giovanni stumbles onto a horrific crime scene with only one survivor—a baby girl found crawling between the dead bodies of her family members. Reeling from the slaughter, Gabriella clings to the infant. When Social Services pries the little girl from her arms, the enormity of the tragedy hits home. Diving deep into a case that brings her buried past to the forefront, Gabriella is determined to hunt down the killer who left this helpless baby an orphan.

But one by one the clues all lead to a dead end, and Gabriella’s obsession with finding justice pulls her into a dark, tortuous spiral that is set to destroy everything she loves

Review:

“Mrs. Martin called me at the newspaper yesterday and told me she had a big story-possibly the biggest one of my career”

Yet upon arrival, Gabriella encounters a 10-month old baby girl sitting amidst a horrific murder scene. What an opening chapter! Welcome to book 3 of the Gabriella Giovanni Mysteries, Blessed Are Those Who Weep. Kristi Belcamino continues to impress with her haunting thriller series. I am sorry to say that I missed the sequel *SMH*(and major events), so I had a lot to infer. Most notably was her ENGAGEMENT to swoon-worthy Detective Sean Donovan. It was a joy to reconnect with these lead characters (deciphering memories and recall) and get wrapped up in their next daunting investigation. Very well done!

The web gets tangled when the orphan’s future lies with a wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing: Her own father who’s in transit from Iraq. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Military corroboration impedes police investigation to apprehend the killer and a wild, violent goose chase ensues with new motives, suspects and doubt. Nothing remotely kid-friendly about this game!

I loved the chapter spacing and story pacing. A brief chapter can be so precise and impactful! I do tear at my hair when Gabriella acts so recklessly/impulsively (though she downplays those moments “without thinking”). I’ll say! There are questions that should be second nature as a journalist, but she doesn’t ask those. She should also resist following leads as if she were a police officer! Having said that, Gabriella will ensure a villain is behind bars; there is a method to her madness.

The subplot of acquiring her sister’s killer is never far from Gabriella’s thoughts and is only augmented by the orphan. Gabriella suffered a miscarriage in book 2, so the protective feelings over the baby are a visceral reaction to her personal loss. As a natural consequence to the miscarriage, Gabriella reflects on the reasons why she couldn’t see her own baby to term.

“I can’t help but worry I’ll never be able to have a baby. That I’m being punished for taking a life. Taking two lives.”

It’s an agonizing reproach and you pray she stops berating herself (and starts sharing those feelings with Sean); otherwise this unhealthy obsession is going to push him away. I cringed frequently; saddened by her “wasteful” attitude when lovemaking wasn’t productive.

The clock is ticking on what seems to be all facets of Gabriella’s life. What will she salvage first or does her chaos result in a series of detonations? Blessed Are Those Who Weep was a great story in a thriving series. Ms. Belcamino arms Gabriella with great instinct. Details are gritty and intense and she never shies from the emotional and complicated issues. I look forward to the next installment and development of this character!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

Share

Dark Heir by Faith Hunter – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
28

Dark Heir by Faith Hunter – Review & Giveaway

 

Dark Heir Banner

 

Dark Heir
Jane Yellowrock series – Book # 9
by Faith Hunter
Release Date: April 7, 2015

Dark Heir Apr 15Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
For centuries, the extremely powerful and ruthless vampire witches of the European Council have wandered the Earth, controlling governments, fostering war, creating political conflict, and often leaving absolute destruction in their wake. One of the strongest of them is set to create some havoc in the city of New Orleans, and it’s definitely personal.

Jane is tasked with tracking him down. With the help of a tech wiz and an ex-Army ranger, her partners in Yellowrock Securities, she’ll have to put everything on the line, and hope it’s enough. Things are about to get real hard in the Big Easy

 

 

Review:

Dark Heir by Faith Hunter is the 9th book in her wonderful Jane Yellowrock series. I am a big fan of this series and Jane Yellowrock. Faith Hunter continues to give us wonderful exciting stories, as well as allowing us to watch Jane and Beast become stronger together. Just to refresh, Jane is a skinwalker and her other form, is Beast, a mountain lion. She is one of the best kick-assed heroines, and in this book she continues to prove how powerful and respected she is, not to mention her loyalty to her friends, and those in danger.

In Dark Heir, the Son of Darkness has escaped and the consequences are deadly, with black magic causing all kinds of havoc. He is without a doubt the most lethal villain Jane has come across thus far, and throughout the book we worry if she can survive. However, Jane is our heroine and we know that is not an issue, though she will suffer badly.

From the time the villain escapes, the action becomes pulse pounding, and dangerous for all vamps and humans, as well as Jane, who multiple times will need the help from beyond to save herself. What I love about this series is the secondary characters we have come to love. It was great to see Jane become more involved romantically with Bruiser. I love Eli and Alex, who are Jane’s partners, and they become even more solidified in this book. The humor in this intense story is always fun with the three of them. Leo is still the tough and dangerous Master of the City, but in this book he seems more willing to help Jane, as he knows the dangers she will face. Though I love Bruiser with Jane, and so happy Rick isn’t there, I still wonder what it would be like for Leo and Jane. Ahhh never happen. Lol   I have always loved her friendship with Molly, but recently and more so in this book, I am not too happy with her. I also love Brute, the werewolf who cannot shift back to human…loved the ending with them.

This was another exciting adventure, as we learn more about Jane, and the vamps. If I had to pick something to complain about, it would be that I wanted more Jane and Beast interaction, which I totally love about this series. Please Faith, give us more Jane and Beast, and more interaction with Leo. With that said, I loved Dark Heir and Faith Hunter never fails to give us another wonderful story. I am already going through withdrawal waiting for the next book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveaway

Faith’s publisher is offering a paper copy of DARK HEIR to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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

3. Please Follow FAITH HUNTER on Facebook.

4. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

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

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on TSU for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway is open to US only

9. Giveaway runs from April 10-14, 2015

Share

Once Upon a Dare (Risky Business) by Jennifer Bonds-a review

Posted on by
9

ONCE UPON A DARE (Risky Business) by Jennifer Bonds-a review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /B&N / KOBO /

Release date: April 7, 2015

Advertising guru Olivia Masterson is all work and no play. But on the eve of earning her dream promotion, her best friend dares her to drop her ice queen façade for one night and seduce a sexy stranger. Olivia’s worked her ass off to get where she is—why the hell not?

Cole Bennett never thought he’d run into his feisty one-night stand at the office, furious that he stole her promotion. No matter how hard she tries to ice him out, they can’t seem to keep their hands to themselves…or their clothes on.

Olivia’s talented—maybe even more than Cole—so when his dropped hints to the boss net her a promotion of her own, he’s ready to celebrate…until she accuses him of fueling office rumors that she slept her way to the top. She wants to earn her own way? Fine. So what the hell does a guy have to do to permanently melt an ice queen?

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: ONCE UPON A DARE is the latest adult, contemporary romance novel from new author Jennifer Bonds. This is advertising phenom Olivia Masterson and Cole Bennett’s storyline.

Olivia Masterson is an advertising executive with an ‘all work and no play’ attitude, so when her best friend and co-worker Chloe dares her to seduce the beautiful stranger at the bar, Olivia spends a sex filled night with a one night stand-a no strings attached evening in bed with a man name Cole Bennett. Fast forward to Monday morning, where Olivia hopes to be awarded partnership in the advertising firm of Pritchard and Associates, Olivia will come face to face with the agency’s new partner-her one night stand-Cole Bennett. Anger, humiliation and betrayal are only a few of the heartbreaking emotions throwing Olivia into a spiral. Believing she was passed over for a man, Olivia begins work on a plan of her own.

Cole Bennett had no idea the woman with whom he had sex is an executive in the firm of which he is now partner. Her actions and humiliation at the knowledge that she had been passed over for Cole find our hero confused but his attention to and need for Olivia becomes all consuming. Cole wants Olivia in both the bedroom and boardroom, but Olivia knows that sex with the boss will no doubt, in the end, destroy her career and reputation. When a once in a lifetime opportunity presents itself, Cole and Olivia must work together on the latest campaign that will prove that she is more than worthy of partnership material but at what cost will the partnership come?

The relationship between Cole and Olivia is one of immediate attraction. There is plenty of sexual tension between our couple that does not go unnoticed by their fellow employees and coworkers. But Olivia is a feminist at heart, and no matter what Cole does to improve Olivia’s chances at making partnership at work, Olivia sees nothing but Cole’s interference with her upwardly mobile status. There is a distinct feminist ideal running throughout the storyline that finds our heroine butting heads with Cole at every opportunity. The continuous push and pull of the relationship was dizzying. The $ex scenes are sensual, intimate and provocative.

The secondary characters include Olivia’s boss and coworkers, as well as her best friend Chloe. Chloe’s need to find a man for Olivia places all men in direct competition with Cole Bennett who believes that he and Olivia are meant to be. Cole’s sister Anna pushes him to make things right knowing that Olivia is the woman who has stolen her brother’s heart.

ONCE UPON A DARE is an entertaining but oft times frustrating read. Olivia’s need and overwhelming drive to make it on her own was a bit of a distraction at times. Cole’s take charge attitude pushed our heroine one too many times and in this the relationship was a roller coaster of emotions. Olivia and Cole are a passionate couple caught up in an emotional situation.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

On The Run by Jo Davis – Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
28

On The Run by Jo Davis – Review & Giveaway

 

On The Run Banner

 

On The RunAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM



Description:
Detective Tonio Salvatore always puts his job first—until a beautiful piece of trouble has him questioning the rules he’s sworn to live by…

Tonio knows that loneliness is the price he has to pay to avoid being hurt again. But the strictly by-the-book cop never expected to be blindsided by a woman who pulls him right out of his self-imposed isolation.

Angel Silva isn’t just from the wrong side of the tracks—she’s on the wrong side of the law. She’s desperate to break free from her dangerous brother and his gang, but when a sexy new recruit joins them, Angel is more trapped than ever—because the ruthless Tonio Reyes isn’t what he seems. When she discovers the man she’s falling for is one of Sugarland’s finest, she’s forced to go on the run.

Instead of taking Angel into custody, Tonio finds himself risking his career to keep her safe. And as the beautiful woman tears down all his defenses, Tonio realizes he’ll risk his very life to set her free.

 

Review:

On the Run by Jo Davis is the 4th book in her Sugarland Blue series. I have enjoyed every book in this series, as it has everything, such as romance, suspense, great couples, exciting, action packed and hot steamy sex scenes.

Our hero in this book is Tonio, who is Chris’s (the hero in the last book) partner. He is working undercover to bring down a dangerous criminal and his gang. Tonio infilters Rab’s gang, but does not plan on meeting Angel, our heroine, who is the sister of the man he is trying to get. Angel runs the bar, and though she has many issues with her brother, she tries to ignore what he does and stay out of trouble.

When Angel meets Tonio, she finds herself attracted to him, but wants nothing to do with anyone who is part of her brother’s gang. But there is something about Tonio that makes him difficult to avoid. She has this feeling that he is not what he seems to be.

As their relationship heats up, the villain becomes even more vicious., putting both of their lives in danger. What follows is an exciting intense adventure, where Tonio finds himself in a predicament that he cannot get out of, and will do anything to keep Angel safe. Her brother reacts to what he perceives to be a betrayal from both of them, which is not good, as he is a madman.

Despite the help from Chris, and the Sugarland Police, Tonio is in deep trouble, finding himself in a near death situation. Angel, having fallen in love with Tonio, will work with the police to help find Tonio, but the villain is always a step ahead. Will they find Tonio in time? Will Angel be able to stop her crazy brother?

On the Run was so exciting and intense, I could not put this book down until I found out what will happen, as we raced to the thrilling climax. Jo Davis once again gives us a wonderful suspenseful and romantic story. Tonio and Angel made an unlikely, but wonderful couple. Davis continues her trademark of creating exciting stories, super hot couples, sexy romances, intense danger, suspense, and wonderful friendships. If you love romance, mystery, suspense, and great characters, then this series is a must read for you.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveaway

Jo & her Publisher are graciously offering a paper copy of On The Run to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

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

5. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

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

7. Follow Jo Davis  on Facebook.

8. Giveaway is open to US only

9. Giveaway runs from  April 9 – April 13, 2015

Share

Below the Belt (First to Fight #1) by Jeanette Murray-Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
28

Below the Belt (First to Fight #1) by Jeanette Murray-Review and Giveaway

Below the Belt Banner

Below The Belt
First To Fight #1
by Jeanette Murray
Release Date: April 7, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, military romance

Below the Belt

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 7, 2015

There’s more than one way to win in the debut of the First to Fight series…

Athletic trainer Marianne Cook is ready to do whatever it takes to turn the men of the Marine Corps boxing team into fighting machines. After all, her ultimate goal is to land a job training professional athletes. But when she notices a certain hard-bodied marine trying to hide an injury, Marianne realizes that she’ll have to use covert tactics to get him talking.

First Lieutenant Brad Costa has waited years for the chance to fight for a spot on the Marine Corps boxing team, knowing he has to push twice as hard to get half as far as his younger counterparts. Brad tries to downplay his injuries to the attractive trainer who has his dreams in her hands, but Marianne isn’t buying it. Maybe it’s time to deploy some targeted flattery.

As Brad and Marianne’s attraction turns red-hot, there’s more than one person having a hard time keeping their eyes on the prize…

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BELOW THE BELT is the first installment in Jeanette Murray’s new contemporary, adult First to Fight military, romance series focusing on a group of Marine Corps boxers and the women they love. This is First Lieutenant Brad Costa and athletic trainer Marianne Cook’s storyline.

Marianne Cook has been hired as the physical therapist and trainer for the Marine’s new boxing team, and there is an instant chemistry between herself and First Lieutenant Brad Costa. At twenty nine years old Brad is the ‘elder statesman’ amongst the current team of Marines and with it comes some existing injuries that he is a little reluctant to share. As Brad continues to hide the extent of his pain and suffering, Marianne is all too aware that Brad hasn’t been truthful with his coach or his trainer.

The storyline follows two paths: the training, the comaraderie, and building friendships between a group of men thrown together with a common goal-to make the Marine Corps boxing team. Brad has been selected as one of three team leaders, and in this his skills and previous experience bring together the motley crew under his care. Brad and Marianne’s attraction to one another is immediate; Marianne has never before been involved with one of the men; Brad is a dedicated Marine who doesn’t do long term relationships. When our couple hit a rough patch, the Marines get together to push their friends in the right direction. The $ex scenes are intimate, provocative and romantic.

There is a secondary storyline building throughout the novel, one that focuses on a series of harassing threats and destruction of property aimed at the Marine Corps boxers. Reagan Robilard is brought in as the athletic liaison and PR consultant, and it is her job to help with the investigation into the threats and damage. Reagan’s story is next –AGAINST THE ROPES- where the search for the culprit(s) continues.

The colorful and charismatic supporting characters include the coaches, the boxers, family, friends and potential lovers. We are introduced to several Marines whose aim it is to qualify for the team. The developing friendships are amusing, refreshing and supportive. Some will not make the team, while others struggle on a daily basis. Marianne and Brad’s families play a supporting and sometimes humorous role throughout the story-Marianne’s mother is a Marine groupie who loves the attention and flirting with the men. The world building follows the Marine Corps boxing team through their training, determination and after hours play.

BELOW THE BELT is a delightful read with a fascinating and engaging cast of characters. Although BELOW THE BELT focuses on the Marine Corp boxing team we do not see any military action-it is all about the athletes and the competition. Jeanette Murray’s BELOW THE BELT was a delight to read.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

about the author

Follow : Goodreads /Website /Facebook /Twitter

Jeanette MurrayJeanette spends her days surrounded by hunky alpha men…at least in her imagination. In real life, she’s a wife and a mother, keeping tabs on her husband of seven years, her four year old daughter (often called Tot) and the family dog, a lovable (but completely stupid) Goldendoodle named Clyde. Hang around long enough and you’re guaranteed to hear at least one or two stories about these three. She and her family currently live just outside of St. Louis.

What’s with the two names? Great question. Jeanette writes for a few different publishers. And due to the timing of some releases, two names just seemed like the right option. But Jeanette can assure you, no matter which pen name you’re reading, you’re going to get sexy contemporary love.

Giveaway beige

Jeanette and her publisher are offering a paper copy of BELOW THE BELT to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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

3. Please LIKE and Follow Jeanette Murray on Facebook

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

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on TSU for an additional entry.

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from April 8-13, 2015

Share

The Enticement (The Submissive Series #4) by Tara Sue Me-Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
28

THE ENTICEMENT (The Submissive Series #4) by Tara Sue Me-Review and Giveaway

The Enticement Banner

The Enticement
The Submissive Series #4
by Tara Sue Me
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: April 7, 2015

The Enticement

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 7, 2015

Limits were made to be pushed.

Abby West has everything she wanted: a family, a skyrocketing new career, and a sexy, Dominant husband who fulfills her every need. Only, as her life outside the bedroom becomes hectic, her Master’s sexual requirements inside become more extreme. Abby doesn’t understand Nathaniel’s increased need for control, but she can’t deny the delicious way her body reacts to his tantalizing demands…

Between Abby’s reluctance and Nathaniel’s unyielding commands, the delicate balance of power between the Dominant and his submissive threatens to shift. And as the underlying tension and desire between them heats up, so does the struggle to keep everything they value from falling apart …

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE ENTICEMENT is the fourth full length installment in Tara Sue Me’s adult, contemporary The Submissive erotic, romance series focusing on billionaire Dominant Nathaniel West, and his wife and submissive Abby King-West. The Submissive Series follows our couple from their first meeting where Abigail King offers herself up as the submissive to Nathaniel West-CEO of West Industries and a Dom looking for a new submissive.

Told from first person point of view (Abby West) THE ENTICEMENT fast forwards the series several years. Nathaniel and Abby are now married, with two young children, under the age of four. In the ensuing time, our couple has pushed aside their BDSM weekend role play to focus on raising a family but the time has come for Nathaniel to reassert his Dominance and control over his submissive. When an opportunity presents itself, Nathaniel requests of Abby one week, 24/7, of submission-something never before endeavored in their marriage or BDSM relationship.

The dynamics of Nathaniel and Abby’s relationship are changing. From D/s to husband and wife, and parents, Nathaniel struggles with his wife’s recent online success- his need to dominate is all encompassing. Knowing his wife needs to submit to her Dom, Nathaniel pushes the boundaries of their BDSM relationship making all of Abby’s fantasies and wishes come true.

The BDSM scenes are sexually graphic; Abby is an exhibitionist whose need to perform finds Nathaniel introducing several voyeurs into their BDSM role play. With the introduction, there is a cross-over between Tara Sue Me’s PARTNERS IN PLAY erotic BDSM series and The Submissive Trilogy. We will become reacquainted with Abby’s very pregnant best friend Felicia and her husband (Nathaniel’s cousin) Jackson; as well as Julie and Daniel (Seduced by Fire); and Dominant Jeff whose specialty is bondage and rope play. The cross-over appears to be in preparation for the continuation of Partners in Play, as well as the future appearances of Abby and Nathaniel in the aforementioned series.

The world building continues to focus on the BDSM lifestyle; the rules, the role playing, and the participants. Nathaniel’s need to control his submissive straddles a thin line; a grey area where, at times, the consent is questionable especially as it pertained to The Master’s anger, and his need to punish and control. Through it all, there is no question that Nathaniel is in love with Abby King-West.

I did have a few problems with this particular storyline including dubious consent, issues of honesty and trust, and raising a young family while participating in the BDSM lifestyle both in and out of the home. The 24/7 Dom/sub lifestyle is not conducive to a couple with a young family and in this, the children were constantly shipped off to family and friends. Abby and Nathaniel are BDSM mentors and as such, demonstrate role play to newbies but their latest mentoring is a little more aggressive and demonstrative than perhaps is necessary as an introduction into the lifestyle and role play. I think any new submissive would have be frightened with the graphic demonstration by our leading couple.

THE ENTICEMENT is an interesting and passionate read that focuses on the struggling issues within a marriage built upon a foundation of Dominance and submission. At some point, the façade will begin to crack, withdrawal and desire begin to blur, and in this ‘sub drop’ overwhelms the senses. The highs and lows may be too much to handle. There are moments of betrayal and trust; seduction and need; intimacy and love. Tara Sue Me continues to invite the reader into the BDSM lifestyle –one Dominant and submissive couple-at a time.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

The Submissive
The Dominant
The Training
The Chalet 3.5
The Enticement
The Collar

Partners in Play Series
Seduced by Fire

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Tara’s publisher are offering a paper copy of THE ENTICEMENT to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

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

3. Please Follow Tara Sue Me on Facebook.

4. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

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

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Giveaway is open to US only

8. Giveaway runs from April 8 to 12, 2015

Share

Say My Name (Stark International #1) by J. Kenner-a review

Posted on by
8

SAY MY NAME (Stark International Trilogy 1) by J. Kenner-a review

Say My Name

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 7, 2015

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Meeting Jackson Steele was a shock to my senses. Confident and commanding, he could take charge of any room . . . or any woman. And Jackson wanted me. The mere sight of him took my breath away, and his touch made me break all my rules.

Our bond was immediate, our passion untamed. I wanted to surrender completely to his kiss, but I couldn’t risk his knowing the truth about my past. Yet Jackson carried secrets too, and in our desire we found our escape, pushing our boundaries as far as they could go.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SAY MY NAME is the first installment in J. Kenner’s adult contemporary Stark International Series focusing on billionaire architect Jackson Steele, and professional assistant Sylvia Brooks. Stark International Trilogy is a cross over series from Kenner’s original Stark series. Sylvia Brooks is Damien Stark’s PA; we were first introduced to Jackson Steele in the Stark Trilogy novella-PLAY MY GAME. You will not have to have read the original Stark series to understand or follow the Stark International trilogy. Many of the characters including Damien and Nikki Stark cross over between the series, but any important information from the Stark series is revealed where necessary.

Told from Sylvia’s first person point of view, the storyline trope follows a second chance at love for two people, who five years earlier, spent two glorious nights together before nightmares from the past forced Sylvia to push Jackson away. Jackson has never forgotten or forgiven Sylvia for the humiliation and pain she caused his fragile male ego, and now that he and Sylvia would be working together with Damien Stark, Jackson is bent on revenge, retribution and payback. What begins as Jackson attempts at avenging Sylvia’s blatant dismissal of their connection, spirals out of control when Sylvia finally acknowledges the truth about what happened five years before.

The connection between our couple has already been established. Their attraction to one another has never waivered and working together on Damien Stark’s latest project will place our couple in constant contact. Stark International has contracted to develop a resort on Cortez Island but the architect and investor is MIA. As project manager, Sylvia approaches well- to- do businessman and her former lover Jackson Steele in the hopes of pushing the development forward knowing their history together will make for a volatile working environment. As the sexual attraction builds, Jackson and Sylvia give into the desire only to find themselves at odds when Damien’s past comes barreling in. Sylvia has bared her heart and soul to a man whose own secrets he keeps buried in the past. The $ex scenes are intimate, intense and passionate. There is some slight discipline and bondage play between Jackson and Sylvia that, honestly, felt out of place in the overall storyline premise. The sexual language is graphic and bold.

SAY MY NAME is an intense and dramatic introduction to J. Kenner’s Stark International Trilogy. There are many similarities between Kenner’s Stark Series leading couples including a history of abuse and harm, obsessions, sexual needs and desires, and colorful family histories. All of Kenner’s characters are engaging, charismatic, rich and beautiful. There are moments of heartbreak and betrayal; love and hate; forgiveness and love. There is no cliff hanger but a definite ‘more to come’ with Jackson’s revelations about his past.

Copy supplied by the author through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

On My KneesON MY KNEES
Stark International Trilogy 2
by J. Kenner
Release Date: June 23, 2015

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

Powerful, ambitious, and devastatingly sexy, Jackson Steele was unlike any other man I’d ever known. He went after what he wanted with his whole mind, body, and soul—and I was the woman in his sights. One touch and I surrendered, one night together and I was undone.

Jackson and I had secrets, dark pieces of our pasts that threatened to swallow us both. We couldn’t outrun our demons, or the people trying to tear us apart. But in our passion we found salvation, and in each other’s arms we found release.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

_____________

Under-My-Skin-comp-final-copy-453x700UNDER MY SKIN
Stark International Trilogy 3
by J. Kenner
Release Date: August 25, 2015

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks are back in the powerful finale of a provocative, sizzling-hot new erotic trilogy set in the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

About The Author Black and Blue

Julie KennerJ. 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
Share