Monthly Archives: April 2015

Deep (Stage Dive #4) by Kylie Scott-Review and Book Tour

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Deep (Stage Dive #4) by Kylie Scott -Review and Book Tour

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Deep
Stage Dive #4
by Kylie Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance, rock stars
Release Date: March 31, 2015

Deep Dec 14

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 31, 2015

Positive. With two little lines on a pregnancy test, everything in Lizzy Rollins’ ordinary life is about to change forever. And all because of one big mistake in Vegas with Ben Nicholson, the irresistibly sexy bass player for Stage Dive. So what if Ben’s the only man she’s ever met who can make her feel completely safe, cherished, and out of control with desire at the same time? Lizzy knows the gorgeous rock star isn’t looking for anything more permanent than a good time, no matter how much she wishes differently.

Ben knows Lizzy is off limits. Completely and utterly. She’s his best friend’s little sister now, and no matter how hot the chemistry is between them, no matter how sweet and sexy she is, he’s not going to go there. But when Ben is forced to keep the one girl he’s always had a weakness for out of trouble in Sin City, he quickly learns that what happens in Vegas, doesn’t always stay there. Now he and Lizzie are connected in the deepest way possible…but will it lead to a connection of the heart?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: 4.5 stars– DEEP is the fourth and final installment in Kylie Scott’s adult, contemporary Stage Dive erotic romance series focusing on the members of the rock band Stage Dive and the women that they love. This is bassist Ben Nicholson and psychology student Lizzy Rollin’s storyline. We were first introduced to Lizzy in PLAY (Stage Dive #2) –Mal and Anne’s story. Lizzy is Anne’s younger sister and Mal is very protective of those he considers family.

Told from first person POV (Lizzy) the focus of the storyline is Ben and Lizzy’s relationship- a friends to lovers story that finds our couple at odds with one another’s current direction in life. A one-night stand weeks earlier in Vegas has resulted in more than a broken heart for Lizzy, Ben doesn’t do relationships; doesn’t do love; in fact Ben wants nothing to do with anything permanent-at all. He is a bit of a manwhore whose reputation has preceded Lizzy and Ben’s one-night stand-a night that neither one will ever forget. Ben continues to offer friendship in lieu of everlasting love.

Ben has always been a bit of an enigma throughout the series. Very little information, background or history surrounding Ben’s relationship with the band or his sister was ever revealed. He was always watching and waiting; or going in another direction; working on something by himself . Ben’s involvement in the series has been limited and with that comes the unknown factor as to the who, how and why! His attraction to Lizzy is immediate; their futures are tied together but his disinterest was heartbreaking and at times, cruel. There is plenty of push and pull between out leading characters; a roller coaster relationship with not enough highs and too many lows.

The storyline initially travels between past and present using memories, flashbacks and text messages-texting that began in LEAD (Book 3) but it was never revealed with whom Ben was talking. The current story begins a couple of months after Mal and Anne’s Las Vegas wedding where Ben had hooked up with Mal’s new sister in law. Ben had already been warned by Mal not to make any advances towards Lizzy but for months Lizzy and Ben have had a virtual relationship through texts and emails. What ensues is a night of sexy fun that Lizzy will remember for a lifetime.

All of the previous storyline couples-David and Evelyn/Mal and Anne/Jimmy and Lena play a significant role throughout the novel where we get a glimpse at the band’s struggles to keep peace amongst themselves. Ben’s sister Martha (Lick #1) returns to wreak havoc on everyone’s lives and with it comes the possibility of a storyline of her own. The introduction of several potential new love interests has piqued this reader’s interest. We are also reintroduced to sexy bassist Vaughn whose own reputation with the women needs no further explanation-Vaughn is a member of the warm up band Down Fourth. Stage Dive’s quiet and unassuming security guard/driver Sam has revealed that there is someone he has been admiring from afar. Their stories and loves will be revealed in Kylie Scott’s spinoff series -DIVE BAR.

The world building continues to follow the band-behind the scenes, on stage, and on the road. Relationships are difficult; friendships are divided; lovers become jealous and unsure. Things are about to change for the members of Stage Dive and the epilogue fast forwards the series several months where we get a glimpse at what life has in store. Mal is still my favorite drummer !!

Kylie Scott’s storylines are passionate, intense and addicting. Her characters are real; heartbreaking; funny and insane….Mal Ericson anyone ?? DEEP may be the conclusion to Kylie’s STAGE DIVE series but the characters and their stories will remain forever as one of my favorite rock music series.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

deep teaser

Excerpt beige

 

“C’mon. How have you been, really? What’s been going on with you?” he pushed. I frowned at him and he frowned right back. “Liz, please.”
I groaned in defeat. “All right, I suck.”
“Why do you suck?”
“So very many reasons.” I pushed my hair back from my face—no more hiding. “Pregnancy sucks. It’s natural, my ass. I finally stop throwing up, but I’m tired all the time. Giving up coffee was horrendous. None of my clothes fit right because of these stupid breasts, and they ache constantly. I have to pee like every thirty seconds, and then to top it off, I cry every time the Healthy Hound ad comes on. It’s ridiculous”
Little wrinkles appeared either side of his nose. “You cry at a dog food ad?”
“Yes. The puppies jump all over each other to get to their mother and it’s just so beautiful, with their cute little tails wagging and everything.”
He just stared at me.
“I know its psycho, Ben. Believe me, I’m well aware of this.”
“Hey, it’s fine.” He covered a smile with his hand. Too late, the bastard.
“You try dealing with all these hormones going apeshit. Crap. Apeshoot.”
“Apeshoot?”
“I’m trying not to swear,” I explained. “You want the first word our child comes out with to be something bad?”
“No. Gotcha.” The man was incredibly bad at hiding a grin. “No swearing.”


 

Stage Dive

Series Spotlight

LickLICK
Stage Dive #1
by Kylie Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, rock stars, erotic romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2013

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of LICK by Kylie Scott

Waking up in Vegas was never meant to be like this.

Evelyn Thomas’s plans for celebrating her twenty-first birthday in Las Vegas were big. Huge. But she sure as hell never meant to wake up on the bathroom floor with a hangover to rival the black plague, a very attractive half-naked tattooed man, and a diamond on her finger large enough to scare King Kong. Now if she could just remember how it all happened.

One thing is for certain, being married to rock and roll’s favourite son is sure to be a wild ride.

__________________________

PlayPLAY
Stage Dive #2
by Kylie Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, rock stars, erotic romance

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

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of PLAY by Kylie Scott

PLAY (Stage Dive 2) by Kylie Scott

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 25, 2014

Do you like to listen to audio books? Click HERE for a six minute PLAY audio clip from MacMillan Audio.

Mal Ericson, drummer for the world famous rock band Stage Dive, needs to clean up his image fast—at least for a little while. Having a good girl on his arm should do the job just fine. Mal doesn’t plan on this temporary fix becoming permanent, but he didn’t count on finding the one right girl. Anne Rollins never thought she’d ever meet the rock god who plastered her teenage bedroom walls—especially not under these circumstances. Anne has money problems. Big ones. But being paid to play the pretend girlfriend to a wild life-of-the-party drummer couldn’t end well. No matter how hot he is. Or could it?

________________

LEAD
Stage Dive #3
by Kylie Scott
Release Date: July 29, 2014
Genre: adult, contemporary, rock musicians, erotic romance
Publisher: St.Martin’s Griffin

Lead Nov 14Click HERE for Sandy’s review of LEAD

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 29, 2014

As the lead singer of Stage Dive, Jimmy is used to getting whatever he wants, whenever he wants it, whether it’s booze, drugs, or women. However, when a PR disaster serves as a wake-up call about his life and lands him in rehab, he finds himself with Lena, a new assistant to keep him out of trouble. 　

Lena’s not willing to take any crap from the sexy rocker and is determined to keep their relationship completely professional, despite their sizzling chemistry. But when Jimmy pushes her too far and Lena leaves, he realizes that he may just have lost the best thing that ever happened to him

About The Author beige

Kylie ScottKylie is a long time fan of erotic love stories and B-grade horror films. She demands a happy ending and if blood and carnage occur along the way then all the better. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and one delightful husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.

Kylie is represented by Amy Tannenbaum at the Jane Rotrosen Agency, New York.

Stalk Kylie Scott: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

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The Ribbon Ridge Series by Darcy Burke-Series review

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The Ribbon Ridge Series by Darcy Burke-series review

Ribbon Ridge Series

YOURS TO HOLD
(Ribbon Ridge #2)
by Darcy Burke
Genre: contemporary, adult, romance

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

Yours to HoldABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 24, 2015

Years ago, golden-boy Kyle Archer left Ribbon Ridge without a word. Now, with heartbreak on the verge of tearing his family apart, the black sheep is back and he’s determined to earn their trust by uncovering the truth behind Alex’s death. But the moment he confronts Maggie Trent—the therapist his parents blame for the tragedy—Kyle is stunned by his powerful attraction to the beautiful doctor… and drawn to her like no woman he’s ever met before.

When gorgeous, charismatic Kyle approaches Maggie about his brother’s death, she agrees to help him search for answers. And as they piece together Alex’s last days, their undeniable chemistry turns too hot to ignore. After their relationship becomes more serious than either anticipated, Kyle may be forced to choose between the woman he’s desperate to hold on to and the family he almost let slip away.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: YOURS TO HOLD is the second full length installment in Darcy Burke’s contemporary adult Ribbon Ridge romance series focusing on the Archer family sextuplets (Evan, Sara, Alex, Tori, Kyle & Liam) of Ribbon Ridge and their younger brother Hayden. This is chef and Archer family black sheep Kyle Archer, and therapist Maggie Trent’s storyline. The Archer family owns several successful breweries and pubs, and most of the siblings play a role in the daily business operations. YOURS TO HOLD takes place a few months after the events of books 1-Only in My Dreams-as the family begins preparations for Derek and Chloe’s wedding and rebuilding the old Monastery left to the siblings in Alex’s will. Derek is the Archer family’s ‘adopted’ son. The series should be read in order as each timeline follows on the events of the previous book.

Told from alternating third person perspectives, the storyline follows Kyle’s investigation into his brother Alex’s suicide and the first person he is going to confront is Alex’s therapist Maggie Trent. Maggie closed up practice and moved out of town within days of Alex’s death, and Kyle is determined to place blame directly on Maggie’s lap. What ensues is a building relationship between Kyle and Maggie as they begin a search for the person responsible for supplying Alex with a means to end his life. But Kyle has a secret of his own; one that has caused a major tear in the family and sent Kyle in search of a new start in life. After a four year absence Kyle’s returns comes with accusations and family tension, and yet he is still unwilling to reveal the truth behind the reason he left.

The relationship between Kyle and Maggie begins acrimoniously as Kyle is determined to blame Maggie and find fault with her therapy methods. His need to uncover the truth behind his brother’s death finds our hero at continuous odds with both Maggie and his family. As their relationship turns sexual, Kyle is reluctant to reveal her true identity to the family knowing that her presence in their lives will only cause more heartache and blame. The $ex scenes are seductive, provocative and emotional; Maggie is caught between professional ethics and a relationship with Kyle Archer.

The entire Archer family is present as they prepare for the upcoming nuptials of Derek and Chloe, although family matriarch Emily Archer remains in France with her youngest child Hayden. The family dynamics are stressful and heartbreaking; there are a number of emotional, physical and mental issues the family continuously endures- most likely due to the early birth of the sextuplets. In this, there is plenty of anxiety and problematic scenarios addressed throughout the series. The Archer’s are a once close-knit family whose secrets are slowly revealing-one child at a time.

YOURS TO HOLD is an emotional storyline. Before his death, Alex Archer wrote a letter to each family member, in the hopes that lessons learned will begin to heal their broken hearts. Kyle received his letter following his admission and reconciliation with his father. Each letter is heartbreaking, tear inducing and painfully honest; there is an intimacy between siblings in death that was never there in life.

Darcy Burke will astonish you with her remarkable and realistic look at the dysfunctional family dynamics of the Archers of Ribbon Ridge. There are moments of incredible family love and support followed by accusations, jealousy and intense pain. The RIBBON RIDGE series is passionate and addicting; Darcy Burke will pull you into a world of emotional highs and lows. You will want to return to Ribbon Ridge again and again.

___________________

ONLY IN MY DREAMS
(Ribbon Ridge #1)
by Darcy Burke
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

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

Only in my DreamsABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

Fed up with her self-imposed single life, successful event planner Sara Archer heads to a bar for a night of dancing … and bumps into Dylan Wescott, the high school crush she hasn’t seen in years. A little harmless flirting leads to a hot, completely uncharacteristic one-night stand; but when she wakes up alone, Sara knows her life is too complicated for a relationship and there can’t be a repeat.

Dylan, a divorced, ex-military construction contractor, limits himself to casual flings—his failed marriage proves he’s better off alone anyway—but he can’t stop dreaming about Sara. And when his firm is hired to oversee the renovation project run by the Archer siblings, Dylan and Sara are unable to resist their explosive chemistry.

But when their secret affair grows beyond “friends with benefits” and neither is willing to admit they want more, family drama and emotional scars may ruin their chance at a love they believed was only in their dreams.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: ONLY IN MY DREAMS is the second installment in Darcy Burke’s contemporary, adult Ribbon Ridge romance series focusing on the Archer Sextuplets of Ribbon Ridge. The Archer family owns several successful breweries and pubs, and most of the siblings play a role in the daily business operations. This is event planner Sara Archer and construction contractor Dylan Wescott’s storyline.

Told from alternating third person perspectives the storyline follows the building relationship between Sara and Dylan- a friends with benefits situation-that becomes more secretive when Dylan’s construction company is hired by the Archer clan to renovate a monastery bequeathed to the siblings. Each sibling has been assigned a task, as per the request of the will, and in this the family dynamics begin to crumble when each member has his or her reasons to back out and pull away.

ONLY IN MY DREAMS follows a family struggling with suicide; a death nobody foresaw but one that has affected Sara most of all. Sara is a woman who suffers with SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) and struggles with the environment around her. The tragic death finds Sara returning home to oversee the coordination of the events program in the newly renovated monastery. From there, Sara’s personal business begins to fail, and the Archer family dynamics spiral out of control. The one constant is her –former one night stand/no strings attached- relationship with Dylan Wescott that soon turns into something more. But when Dylan realizes that sex with the boss may affect his future employment, he stops at nothing to put an end to what they had already started.

ONLY IN MY DREAMS has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters. We are reintroduced to the entire Archer clan-a set of sextuplets (Evan, Sara, Alex, Tori, Kyle & Liam) and their younger brother Hayden made famous by a television reality show ‘Seven is Enough’ that placed the family front and center on the entertainment pages, along with their ‘foster’ brother Derek (Where The Heart Is .5). There are secrets and misunderstandings shrouding the family happiness; even the parental units are no longer communicating following the death of one of their own.

The storyline ends with a happily ever after, but it was a struggle seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Dylan and Sara continued to push and pull at one another for a majority of the story, while Sara’s siblings fought constantly about control and issues of the past. I can understand why some of the siblings needed to take a break and walk away. A death affects everyone differently; a suicide leaves too many unanswered questions and blame.

ONLY IN MY DREAMS is a well written, emotional and powerful tale; a tragedy that continues to tear apart a family that now struggles with the loss and unanswered questions. Darcy Burke brings drama, passion and heartbreaking pain to a storyline that will captivate your imagination.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

____________________

WHERE THE HEART IS
(Ribbon Ridge .5)
by Darcy Burke
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Where The Heart IsABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2013

FREE ebook: Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository

Home is more than a place . . .

Breaking free from her structured life, Chloe English quits her high-powered job and moves across the country to work as an art teacher. The simple life is all she hoped it would be until her house burns down, leaving her homeless. When a handsome firefighter swoops in to save the day, she can’t believe her luck. He’s laid-back and unassuming, everything she’s looking for in a man—or so he seems. It turns out he’s as ambitious as her ex, comes with a family who could be more stifling than hers, and harbors dark secrets he may never be able to share.

Orphaned as a teenager, Derek Sumner has found a place in his best friend’s family. However, the love and support of his surrogate parents and siblings can’t erase the grief and loss he struggles every Christmas to banish. But this year he meets the fun and sexy Chloe, whose optimism and sense of joy are incredibly contagious. Can she help him face his bleak past so they can forge a happy future?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHERE THE HEART IS is the first installment (novella) in Darcy Burke’s Ribbon Ridge romance series focusing on the Archer sextuplets (Evan, Sara, Alex, Tori, Kyle & Liam) of Ribbon Ridge and their younger brother Hayden. This is the Archer family best friend and Archer Industries CFO Derek Sumner, and art teacher Chloe English’s storyline. The timeline follows a few weeks prior to the Christmas holidays wherein Chloe finds herself homeless and dependent upon the charity of friends.

Told from alternating third person perspectives WHERE THE HEART IS introduces the reader to the well-to-do and successful Archer family of Ribbon Ridge including the infamous sextuplets who, as children and tweens, were featured in a reality television series Seven is Enough. The Archer family own a series of microbreweries and pubs, and in this Archer Industries has been established. The focus of the storyline follows the Archer family’s ‘foster son’ Derek Sumner-a volunteer firefighter, amongst other noteworthy professions- as he embarks on a relationship with the woman whose burned out apartment finds her in desperate need of housing and friends.

Derek will introduce Chloe English to the Archer family who welcome the young woman like one of their own. When the Archer family patriarch Robert, reminds Derek that his own family home is currently available for the now homeless Chloe, Derek’s own horrific memories of the past begin to overwhelm and take control.

The relationship between Chloe and Derek is very quick to develop-one of instant attraction, lust and love that is tempered by Derek’s constant need to run when memories of the past haunt his thoughts. Offering Chloe his family home sets into motion a series of misunderstandings and heartbreak as Derek runs when the going gets tough. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative but I did take issue with the lack of condoms.

The Archer family of Ribbon Ridge is not perfect. They are a close knit family but due to the inherent and potential issues with multiple births-and in this case 6 babies at once-the now adult sextuplets are not without some emotional, mental and physical problems including OCD, Asperger’s syndrome, SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), chronic lung disease and depression. Each storyline will end with a happily ever after but getting there will be heartbreaking and emotional.

WHERE THE HEART IS is a quick read; a novella length storyline that introduces the Archer family with all of their quirks and problems, issues and struggles, and the never ending stream of people who come and go in their lives. Darcy Burke does a fantastic job building a world where the potential for future storylines is but a heartbreak away. A passionate, intelligent and intriguing look at an extraordinary family trying to maintain an ordinary life.

Reviews by Sandy

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Total Surrender (Sin Brothers #4) by Rebecca Zanetti-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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TOTAL SURRENDER (Sin Brothers #4) by Rebecca Zanetti-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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Total Surrender (Sin Brothers #4) by Rebecca Zanetti

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TOTAL SURRENDER
Sin Brothers #4
by Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: adult, contemporary, military romance, paranormal
Release Date: March 31, 2015

Total Surrender March 15

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository/ibooks / Google Play

About the book: Release Date March 31, 2015

A fight he must win…

Piper Oliver knows she can’t trust him. They warned her that the tall, dark, and sexy black-ops soldier Jory Dean would try to win her over with his steel-gray eyes and deadly charm, but she won’t be conned by this man they call a traitor. All she has to do is figure out the science necessary to save his life, and she’s done. Something isn’t adding up, though, and she won’t rest until she uncovers the truth-even if it’s buried in his deep, dangerous kiss.

A passion she can’t resist…

Jory will do anything to reunite with and save his brothers-even kidnap the gorgeous woman who’s working to deactivate the deadly chip in their spines. But the forces determined to destroy his family won’t let them go so easily. Keeping Piper alive is more than he bargained for-and so is his burning desire for her. But with every second bringing him closer to certain death, can he afford to lose himself in her hot and willing embrace?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: TOTAL SURRENDER is the fourth and final installment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult SIN BROTHERS slightly paranormal, military, romantic suspense series focusing on Nate, Mattie, Shane and Jory Dean-four genetically engineered brothers who were created by The Commander to become the perfect super soldier and killing machine. Each of the brothers is a ticking time bomb-a chip implanted at the base of the spine will detonate within a matter of days, and the men are searching for the code to deactivate the bombs. This is youngest brother Jory Dean and computer geek/IT guru Piper Oliver’s storyline.

Throughout the series, the Dean brothers have been searching for their brother Jory-last known whereabouts unknown and presumed dead when a video surfaced revealing a woman shooting Jory in the chest. As the expiration date on their lives draws near, the hunt for Jory and the code takes on a renewed effort.

TOTAL SURRENDER follows Jory as he finds himself the subject of Piper Oliver’s search for the code. Piper is an IT guru who specializes in hacking and the Commander is pushing Piper to break the code but there is a twist to the story-Piper is the Commander’s daughter and is completely unaware of her father’s treachery and role in the brothers’ creation. When Jory finds the opportunity to escape, he abducts Piper in the hopes of her continued efforts to deactivate the coded chips.

Rebecca Zanetti pulls the reader into a roller coaster of a storyline where secrets will be revealed; the truth about Jory’s shooting hits too close to home; and where the brothers discover that the Commander’s experiments continued long after the Dean brothers creation. As Nate, Shane and Mattie discover their youngest brother is alive, their happiness is short lived when the truth about Jory’s spinal chip is something no one had anticipated.

The relationship between Jory and Piper begins combatively and antagonistically. Piper believes Jory has betrayed his country but she knows nothing about the truth behind Jory’s imprisonment and her father’s involvement. As the storyline builds, so too, does the attraction and need between our leading couple; when the truth is finally revealed, Piper discovers that there are many secrets that have yet to be revealed. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and hot. Jory is not just a super soldier but a super lover, as well. 😉

All of the previous storyline couples play a supporting role throughout the novel. We are introduced to the next generation of super soldiers, and with it comes, heartbreak and more betrayal. Jory’s story has been building since the release of book one Forgotten Sins where three brothers try desperately to find the one who now stands alone.

TOTAL SURRENDER is the final chapter in the Dean Brothers’s stories but with it comes more questions and surprises leaving room for the possibility of a spin off series. Rebecca Zanetti’s SIN BROTHERS series is addicting, intense, and suspenseful; her characters are passionate, provocative and alluring. You will not be disappointed.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Review by Sandy

excerpt

 

A young mother with two toddlers hustled toward the entrance, their heads ducked to avoid the wind. Piper sucked in air.
If she screamed, they were screwed.
Jory pivoted and put her against the wall, covering her mouth with his before she could let out a sound.
Warmth and woman. An electric shock flared his entire nervous system alive. Soft and sweet, she breathed in as he pressed against her. He’d meant to subdue her, to throw her off balance, but shock ricocheted through him.
Need compelled him. He shot both hands into her hair, tilting her head so he could go deeper. So fucking deep he could get lost.
The second he tasted her, all cinnamon and woman, hunger slaked him. Devastating in its intensity, a demand he couldn’t deny. Her smooth, velvety lips softened under his, and for once, he lost himself.
Strands of her silky hair caressed his hands as he held her jaw, nearly lifting her up to meet his mouth. There was nothing but getting . . . more.
She stilled against him, her mouth parting. He swept his tongue against hers, taking in a primitive claim too powerful to deny.
Her gasp mingled with his low groan. She pressed harder against him, her mouth curving under his, and he forgot . . .everything. Who he was, where they were, the fire and danger. Only the woman against him, warm and willing, sweet and sexy, filled his mind.
He clasped her tight, forgetting any gentleness. Any seduction, any mission. Only this woman and this moment mattered. Letting go of himself, he allowed the creature inside, the one so rarely let loose, to take over. To push deep, to demand more. To take.
And give everything.
His mouth overtook hers, memorizing every groove, every small nuance. His free hand gripped her butt, hauling her up against his steel-hard erection. Heat from her core nearly dropped him to his knees. Pain and sparking pleasure flared along his skin, and he deepened the kiss, tightening his hold.
He needed to get inside her. Now.
A siren trilled on the lower street, and he jerked his head free.
Danger.
She blinked, her eyes the green of a rain-filled meadow. Desire burned there, hot and bright. Somehow sweet.
Possessiveness gripped him with a chokehold. One kiss. One kiss and she’d changed him. He had to get her out of the parking lot before guns fired again.
That quickly, realization crossed her face. Then shock, as she tried to take a step back. Her hands rose and shoved against his chest.
Denial gripped him to be quickly quashed with cold, hard training. So he grabbed her wrists and hauled her closer, his face lowering to hers. He wiped away any expression and shoved down all emotion. “Those men don’t care who they shoot. They’re scrambling and might kill you—or innocent bystanders.” He spoke low, commanding.
She blinked, her mouth opening but no sound coming out.
“If you fight me, they’ll find us, and they might shoot. Collateral damage doesn’t mean a thing to them.”
She shook her head and looked around.
He pulled her closer and lowered his voice to pure, no‑bullshit command. “We’re getting in that four-door Jeep, and we’re leaving here quietly. Your only choice is alert or unconscious? Decide now.” He let conviction ring in his tone. If he believed he could knock her out, then she’d believe it, too.
No fucking way could he knock her out. Scaring her held little appeal, but he didn’t have a choice if they were to both live through the night.
She quickly nodded. Gulping air, she relaxed her body as two teenagers giggled while walking by.
He knew full well she agreed to keep bystanders safe and not because the kiss had changed anything for her. She had no reason to trust him, and she’d never really know him. Why that pierced his chest with the cleanness of a sharpened dagger, he’d figure out later. For now, they had to run.

 


 

Series Spotlight

FORGOTTEN SINS
Sin Brothers #1
by Rebecca Zanetti

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

Forgotten Sins July 2013ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 2, 2013

His Secrets Can Destroy Her

From the moment Josie laid eyes on sexy, mysterious Shane Dean, she was in love. Their desire ignited a passionate affair, and within weeks, Shane had slipped a ring on her finger. It seemed her every fantasy was coming true . . . until her new husband disappeared without a trace. Now, two years and one broken heart later, Josie is shocked by the hospital calls: Shane has been found . . . at a crime scene with no memory of how he got there.

Her Love Can Save Him

Shane can’t remember the blue-eyed angel at his bedside—or who he even is—but he knows something isn’t right. His hearing is razor sharp, his physical strength incredible, and the urge to protect Josie overwhelming. For powerful enemies are hunting him, and Josie is the key to discovering why. As Shane struggles to unravel his past, dangerous new truths come to light. Can he protect the only woman he’s ever loved? And can Josie trust a man she thought she knew—one who carries such a deadly secret?
__________________

SWEET REVENGE
Sin Brothers #2
by Rebecca Zanetti

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

Sweet Revenge Dec 13SWEET REVENGE (Sin Brothers #2) by Rebecca Zanetti

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2013

The One Man She Can’t Have

Matt Dean was born to fight…and kill. A member of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be the perfect soldiers with an expiration date. Now, with time running out, he’s gone rogue in a relentless quest for the one person who can save them. His mission leads him to Charmed, Idaho…and to a beautiful woman with eyes like emeralds and a body made for pleasure.

The One Woman He Can’t Resist

Laney Jacobs knows the mysterious, handsome stranger is trouble from the moment he walks into her bar, looking for a job. She’s spent years running from her own past—the last thing she needs is a romantic entanglement. But Matt’s strong arms offer her protection, and his gentle touch promises passion unlike anything she’s ever known. As lethal forces surround them, revealing explosive secrets about Matt’s past and putting everything—and everyone—he holds dear in danger, can he save them all before time runs out?

_______________

Blind Faith
Sin Brothers #3
by Rebecca Zanetti
Genre: adult, contemporary, suspense, paranormal
Release Date: May 6, 2014

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

Blind FaithABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 6, 2014

A betrayal he couldn’t forget . . .

For Nate Dean, love is a four-letter word. As part of a secret black-ops military unit, he and his brothers were genetically engineered by the government to be ruthless soldiers with an expiration date. They were loyal only to one another . . . until Nate laid eyes on the woman who stole his heart and blew his world apart. Now, years later, his family is still paying the price for his mistake. But as time runs out, there’s only one person who can save his family: the very woman Nate swore he’d never trust again.

A love she couldn’t deny . . .

The moment Audrey Madison spies Nate across a crowded ballroom, she can barely breathe. He’s just as undeniably sexy as she remembers, yet there’s an edge to him now that’s as irresistible as it is dangerous. When he asks for her help, Audrey can’t refuse. But she has secrets of her own-secrets that, if Nate ever discovers them, may cost them both their lives .

About The Author Black and Blue

Rebecca ZanettiNew York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She is a member of
RWA, has won awards for her works throughout the industry, and has a journalism degree with a poly sci emphasis from Pepperdine University as well as a Juris Doctorate from the University of Idaho.

Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her
every day-or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

Website

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Giveaway-Black and Deep Blue

**There are TWO ways to WIN**

Giveaway #1:  Rebecca’s publisher is offering a paper copy of TOTAL SURRENDER 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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8. Giveaway is open to USA and Canada only

9. Giveaway runs from April 2 to 7, 2015

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The Closer You Come by Gena Showalter-Book Tour Promotion

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The Closer You Come by Gena Showalter-Book Tour Promotion
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The Closer You Come
The Original Heartbreakers #1
by Gena Showalter
Release Date: March 31, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

The Closer You Come

Add THE CLOSER YOU COME to your GOODREADS shelf.

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

Just released from prison, Jase Hollister has a dark and twisted past. And now, he has only one goal: stay out of trouble. Strawberry Valley, Oklahoma, sounds like the perfect place for him and his two brothers-by-circumstance to settle down and live a nice, simple life. But model citizen isn’t exactly this rugged bachelor’s default setting—especially when it comes to a certain hot-blooded Southern beauty…

Brook Lynn Dillon has always been responsible. Not that it’s done her much good. The down-on-her-luck waitress is broke, single and fun-deprived. Until Jase comes along. He is dangerous, stunningly protective, breathtakingly sexy and as tempting as sin, and the passion sizzling between them is undeniable. But can it melt her resistance? After all, the right kind of trouble might be just what they both need.

Excerpt beige

 

She scanned the yard—and finally found the source of the banging. Jase, with a hammer. Shirtless Jase. Muscles honed from intense manual labor bulged as sweat glistened and trickled down tanned skin and more tattoos than she’d realized. One of his arms was fully sleeved, the colorful ink wrapping over his shoulder and covering his pectoral. On his other side, his ribcage and torso were etched with intricate designs. A handful of what looked to be letters rose above the waist of his shorts.
Am I drooling? I’m probably drooling. Wow. Just wow. He was major man-candy. Gourmet. The house specialty. He radiated the most sublime sex appeal, the kind that shattered the most ingrained resistance and battered the staunchest inhibitions, and he would definitely satisfy even the most intense sweet tooth. He worked the hammer with masterful expertise, like he could fix anything, anywhere, anytime, and she had to admit it was total girl porn.
How she longed to close the distance and study every inch of him more closely. Study, yes…
Perhaps touch…
He paused to wipe his face with a rag, and she almost moaned at the increased deliciousness of him. If almost was the new word for loudly.
He looked up and stilled.
“Brook Lynn.” His sunglasses were light enough that she was able to watch his gaze travel over her slowly, leisurely.
Her body reacted as though physically caressed, tingling and aching in her most intimate places. Heat flash? Maybe. Probably.
“Good morning,” he said, his voice a husky rasp just as sexy as the rest of him.
“Morning.” She gulped and wiped her hands on the side of her wrinkled shorts. Don’t gawk at his chest. Certainly don’t glance lower. “My phone. My keys. Shoes.” Making words should not be this difficult. “Do you know where they are?” Better.
“Phone and keys are in the kitchen. Shoes are in your car.”
She must have been too focused on the noise—and then the food—to notice the phone and keys. “Well, then. Thank you. For everything,” she added, only to hesitate. “But, uh…I’m a little confused about why you didn’t just take Jessie Kay and me to our home.”
“Two reasons.” He set the hammer aside. “I didn’t have permission to enter your residence, and Jessie Kay had had too much to drink. She needed to be monitored, so…” He shrugged.
So he’d acted like the gentleman he’d once claimed he wasn’t. “Well, thank you. Again,” she said, and turned to retreat inside. Only then, with her gaze off him and a little distance between them, was she able to breathe.
How did he affect her so strongly? And how could she make it stop?
“You didn’t eat,” he said, coming in behind her.
Her eyes widened as she rounded on him, her breath hitching when she discovered he was close enough to touch. Close enough to press against, male hardness to female softness, if only she leaned forward the slightest…little…bit. No! Bad Brook Lynn! Bad!
Then his words hit her. “That feast is for me?”
His nod was slow, and his gaze hot on her, as if he’d sensed the direction of her thoughts. “Your sister, too.”
Needing no further encouragement, she sat at the table and dug in, soon caught up in a whirlwind of different tastes and textures, moaning with rapturous delight. Yes, she would have added a few other spices to take the flavor to a whole new level, but all in all the meal rocked her socks.
When she finished, she dabbed at her mouth with a napkin. Oh, now I’m ladylike? She looked up to find Jase had removed his sunglasses, but hadn’t pulled on a shirt…and he was staring at her as intently as she’d stared at him. It was disconcerting. Especially since his features were blank, and she couldn’t read him.
A blush burned her cheeks, and she cleared her throat. “Don’t judge me.” Or my new food baby.
He arched a brow. “Is that what I was doing?”
Surely. “Well.” She cleared her throat again. “Anyway. My compliments to the chef.”
“That would be Beck.”
Never would she have guessed the pretty boy had a skill that didn’t involve a mattress and a panting partner. “Did he train at the Institute of Divine Cuisine and Hellish Addiction?” Jessie Kay had often accused Brook Lynn of sneaking into classes.
“More like the Institute of That Was Fun, But Now It’s Time For You To Go.”
Nice. “You guys and your one-night stands,” she said, and rolled her eyes.
“Is that judgment I hear, angel?”
Angel? The endearment proved a thousand times more personal and tantalizing than “honey,” shocking her to the core. Of course, he’d meant nothing by it. She figured he probably used the words interchangeably with every female he encountered—even with her sister. But…
I’m still reeling.
“No judgment,” she said, and stood. “And now it’s time for me to jet.” Before I do or say something more stupid. “I’m late for work, so…this is goodbye.”
His gaze still locked on her, he stepped closer to her, too close for comfort. She should have backed up, if only out of a sense of propriety, but she remained in place. He crossed his arms over his massive chest, those green eyes heating, burning. A sign of…arousal?
The provocative scent of him filled the air between them; it was masculine, sultry and heady, and it fogged her thoughts. It must have. Why else would she have continued to gaze up at him instead of running away?
“Jase?”
“Brook Lynn.”
Her heart must have heard music her ears couldn’t pick up, because the treacherous organ whipped into a frenzied beat, perhaps even doing cartwheels. Her breaths began to come faster, and shallow. I’m panting. I’m freaking panting. She shifted from one side to the other. He took another step toward her, as if compelled, then another, the last whisper between them vanishing.
He’s the predator, and I’m the prey.


 

Series Spotlight

The One You WantTHE ONE YOU WANT
The Original Heartbreakers .05
by Gena Showalter
Release Date: March 1, 2015
First Date of Release: 2014 anthology, All For You.

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

In small-town Oklahoma, reputation is everything, and Kenna Starr will do anything to overcome hers. The supposed bad girl is determined to walk the straight and narrow, a seemingly impossible task when Tall, Dark and Sexy shows up…

Rich and powerful, Dane Michaelson is every woman’s dream. When he returns to Strawberry Valley after a sixteen-year absence, he is unprepared for the redheaded girl he’s never been able to forget. She’s all woman now—and he’s never wanted anyone more. But to have her, he’ll have to break through her defenses… and surrender his own.

* First published in the 2014 anthology, All For You.

About The Author beige

Follow: website/ Goodreads/ Facebook/ Twitter

Gena ShowalterGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty books in paranormal and contemporary romances, as well as young adult novels. Her series include White Rabbit Chronicles, Angels of the Dark, Otherworld Assassins, Lords of the Underworld, Alien Huntress and Intertwined.
Her novels have appeared in Cosmopolitan Magazine, and Seventeen Magazine, and have been translated all over the world. The critics have called her books “sizzling page-turners” and “utterly spellbinding stories”, while Showalter herself has been called “a star on the rise”.

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The Unleashing (Call of Crows #1) by Shelly Laurenston-a review

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THE UNLEASHING (Call of Crows #1) by Shelly Laurenston-a review

The Unleashing

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 31, 2015

Kera Watson never expected to face death behind a Los Angeles coffee shop. Not after surviving two tours lugging an M16 around the Middle East. If it wasn’t for her hot Viking customer showing up too late to help, nobody would even see her die.

In uncountable years of service to the Allfather Odin, Ludvig “Vig” Rundstrom has never seen anyone kick ass with quite as much style as Kera. He knows one way to save her life—but she might not like it. Signing up with the Crows will get Kera a new set of battle buddies: cackling, gossiping, squabbling, party-hearty women. With wings. So not the Marines.

But Vig can’t give up on someone as special as Kera. With a storm of oh-crap magic speeding straight for L.A., survival will depend on combining their strengths: Kera’s discipline, Vig’s loyalty… and the Crows’ sheer love of battle. Boy, are they in trouble.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE UNLEASHING is the first installment in Shelly Laurenston’s new fantasy/paranormal romance Call of Crows series loosely based on Norse mythology. As per the author’s introductory comments Laurenston has taken some liberties with the gods and their backstories, adding her own twist to the stories. This is Viking descendant and Raven Clan member Vig Rundstrom, and former marine and the newest Crow Clan member Kera Watson’s storyline. The Clans are the present day human representatives of the Viking gods on Earth and do battle each evening with the enemies of the gods.

The storyline follows Kera’s murder and admittance into the Clan of the Crows-a women-only mythological Clan whose membership initiation results from a violent death or murder. Too late to save the woman with whom he had fallen in love, Vig Rundstrom called upon the god Odin to give Kera a second chance at life. What ensues is Kera’s immediate introduction into a world she knew nothing about-not only will Kera be the recipient of special powers and wings-but her rescue dog pit bull Brodie will be bequeathed some skill and talent of her own.

THE UNLEASHING introduces a large ensemble cast of characters from several mythological Clans which may seem overwhelming in the initial stages of the series but as per Laurenston’s style of writing, all of the characters will, most likely, have some role in future storylines. The focus of THE UNLEASHING follows the Crow and Raven Clans and I hope to see some future relationship developments. The Raven Clan is an all male Clan descended from the Vikings-big, bearded and tough. The romance in the storyline is not particularly strong as the author focuses more on the mythology and character introduction.

The first half of the storyline acquaints the reader with the characters, the set up and some of the background of Norse mythology and the development of the Clans. In the second half of the story, there is more action as the Clans must join together in battle-someone or something is trying to release a dangerous power.

If you are a fan of the author’s paranormal, shifter PRIDE series, you will recognize many similarities between character nuances and personality traits especially with the females of the Crow Clan. I recognize similarities of Dee, Blayne, Jessica, Sissy Mae, Gwen, Ronnie Lee, and even a little bit of Hannah (Beast Behaving Badly) who comes through with the introduction of Jace. The females of Laurenston’s SMITH PACK from her Pride series are well represented by the Crow Clan.

Shelly Laurenston’s trademark wit, humor and snarky one-liners are present as the character personalities begin to develop and come through as the storyline builds. All of the females are warriors; fighters in their own right; kick a$$ heroines who defend, protect and, in the case of the Crow Clan, bringers of death. THE UNLEASHING is a wonderful introduction to a new series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Rothaker/Everett by Jenifer Ruff – Reviews

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Rothaker/Everett by Jenifer Ruff – Reviews

 

Rothaker
Everett Series – Book #2
by Jenifer Ruff
Release Date: April 1, 2015

RothakerAmazon / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Another school….another disappearance…

Brooke is thrilled to be a first-year medical student at Rothaker. Committed to winning a coveted scholarship for future surgeons, she has vowed not to repeat the “necessary”, but extreme acts from her years at Everett College. She is also intrigued by a classmate, the mysterious Xander Cross, a former college football player and veteran of the war in Afghanistan, hiding dark secrets of his own. Thanks to her single-minded obsession with excellence and achievement, Brooke’s plans are rolling along smoothly, until her integrity is questioned by Rachel, a rival student.

Does Brooke discover a soul-mate when Xander is forced to confront the truth of his haunting past? Or, will her determination to vanquish all obstacles, remain unscathed, and come out on top be her undoing?

This chilling mystery of psychological suspense will have readers wondering just how well they actually know their friends, neighbors, or classmates.

Review:
Rothaker is the continuing story of Brooke Walton medical student and psychotic killer. This thrilling mystery/murder story is has many similarities to a recent series on cable titled Dexter. However, where Dexter was taught to kill only other killers, our lovely Brooke only kills those who get seriously in her way.

Jenifer Ruff has a created an interesting world focusing on this lovely blonde with a passion for physical fitness and dissection. This year, Brooke broke up with her “boyfriend” Ethan due to his move back to California after graduation from Everett. This year she’s a medical first year student at Rothaker and has vowed to herself to have a few differences. Namely a better social connection to others, and more tolerance for those who get in her way.

The plot thickens when Rachael, another student threatens to go to the dean about Brooke writing a part of a project for another student who had to return to India for his father’s funeral and to help his family. Brooke falls back into her default position of eliminating problems by killing those who make them.

Okay, that’s the set up and no more spoilers…you have to read this for yourself to get the full effect and believe me it’s effective! Author Ruff brings back or mentions a few familiar people from the first book and spices this one up with a real boyfriend and love interest for Brooke. Just to make it more interesting, he’s suffering from PTSD…and having flashbacks.

The manipulations, interesting interactions, and great storytelling make this a page turner and while it is a serial story, it doesn’t leave you on a breathless cliffhanger…just an interesting…Oooohhh what’s next! Grab a bracing drink and something to chew on besides your fingernails and enjoy!

 

Everett
Everett series – Book #1
by Jenifer Ruff
Release Date: September 15, 2014

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

Description:
At Everett, perfection has a dark side….

Brooke is a highly-motivated coed at prestigious Everett College. She is determined to graduate number one in her class, get accepted at a top medical school, and become a surgeon. She is brilliant, tenacious, and beautiful.

Everything is going according to plan, although she’s not sure what to do about Ethan, an attractive guy who would like to be more than just friends. Her classmates and professors are all captivated by her achievements and her outward appearance, with the exception of one student. Only Jessica, a wealthy socialite and Brooke’s complete opposite, senses that Brooke might not be all that she appears. But Jessica has her own problems, fueled by too many prescription pills, energy drinks, and a huge case of snobbery. She’s too busy looking down her nose when she should be watching her back.

As the semester progresses, Brooke’s carefully laid plans are inadvertently threatened. Her sinister past is revealed, and nothing is off limits when it comes to achieving her goals.

 

Review:

Everett is a mystery suspense novel by Jenifer Ruff. Centering on life at Everett, an elite and prestigious college in New Hampshire. Brooke Walton has transferred to Everett from Cedarhurst due to the death of her academic mentor. She’s brilliant, lovely, focused on fitness and becoming a surgeon. Oh yes, there just one other small thing, Brooke’s a psychopathic killer.

Most descriptions are of normal college life and scenery. Some focusing so much on secondary characters that it may seem to be moving slow…it only seems that way. There is a lot of description and information, but it’s setup for the story. Brooke also has a boyfriend, well sort of. He’s wonderful and he thinks he’s in love, but she has to work at doing the things that appear to be what normal people do when they’re attracted or in love, because she doesn’t have those type of feelings. Ever hear of the TV series Dexter? Similar affliction.

The situations are interesting, her stressors are equally interesting. She’s absolutely driven to the physical workouts, even inventing her own workouts and teaching large and satisfied classes. This actually a symptom of her disease, as is being driven to be the best academically and to become a surgeon. It isn’t clear if she also intends to help some people, but she definitely has an interest in cutting into others and seeing the causes of death and what happens.

It’s an interesting read, a few small misspelled words…no big deal, doesn’t effect the story at all. Basically, if you like psycho-type stories and mysteries…this is really interesting. It’s a bit strange to hope the “bad guy” or in this case “bad girl” doesn’t get caught. It’s fun!

Everett is the first book in this story. A sequel Rothaker is also out and I’ can’t wait to delve into its mysteries and dark thrills!

Reviews by Georgianna

Copy provided by Author

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