Monthly Archives: May 2015

Kiss Across Deserts by Tracy Cooper-Posey – a Review

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Kiss Across Deserts by Tracy Cooper-Posey – a Review

 

Kiss Across Deserts
Kiss Across Time series – Book #4
Vampire Time Travel Menage Romance
by Tracy Cooper-Posey
Release Date: May 8. 2015

Kiss Across DesertAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Time travel is not for the weak of heart.

Alexander Karim, long-time friend of Brody, Veris and Taylor, has been questioning everything; his purpose in life and his identity as a vampire and a doctor.  Even his long time pursuit of the lovely but reluctant police lieutenant Sydney Stevens is on shaky ground.

Life tosses him a curve ball when Alex learns that Brody’s trial lawyer, Rayner De Leon, the youngest appeal court judge in the state, is attracted to Alex.  Rayner is a vampire, Rafael, who has known Brody and Veris since the fifth century.  Alex warily allows Rafael to seduce him, and the affair has surprising results for both of them.

But then a deliberate hit and run tosses Sydney back into Alex’s life and this time, her defenses are down and she is vulnerable.  But there are unanswered questions surrounding Sydney.  Who tried to kill her?   And why is she insisting that Alex was there, when he doesn’t remember it that way?

When a kiss sends Alex and Sydney back to Alex’s beloved desert, and he realizes that Taylor is not the only one who can time travel, the questions pile up like gunpowder.  The flint that strikes the spark is Sydney’s past, which is exposed when Rafael reaches through time and uncovers her dangerous secret.

The explosion that follows is both deadly and tragic, reaching out to touch everyone’s lives.

Warning:  This time travel menage romance features two super-hot alpha vampire heroes, multiple sex scenes, including anal sex, MM sexual play, and MMF sex.  Do not read this book if frank sexual language and sex scenes offend you.
The time-space continuum was restored to order at the end of this book.  Promise.

 
Review:

As you can see, the blurb about the book tells you all of the plot points, so I’ll just jump right in with my thoughts on this one. I’ve read the previous books in this series and really enjoyed them. I’ve enjoyed getting to know Veris, Brody, Taylor and their children. Kiss Across Deserts by Tracy Cooper-Posey begins with Brody’s trial preparations, which you learn about in a previous book. Alex, a close friend of the aforementioned group, has been attracted to Sydney for an entire year. And for an entire year, Sydney has rejected his advances. Repeatedly. Until Sydney’s life is threatened and she sees him in a whole new light.

As they grow closer, Alex expresses his views on life which sends Sydney running. Seems Sydney has some secrets of her own and hasn’t truly dealt with her past. Of course, Alex is devastated. And the tenuous relationship that he had started with Rafe crashes as well. Alex tries to move on and then one day a chance meeting in the park leaves him devastated. Whom does he see? Sydney………….and Rafe. This is where it got kind of wonky for me. Anyway, once the threat grows more serious and ultimately involves Veris, Brody and Taylor, it takes all of them to make things right and eliminate the threat. Marit, Taylor’s eight year old, plays a big part in helping them eliminate said threat and that part will leave you smiling. BIG! And, it was not a big surprise when the identity of the threat was revealed. But, the fact that Marit aided them was an awesome addition to the storyline.

I enjoyed Kiss Across Deserts, but I didn’t love it. Where Veris, Brody and Taylor’s storyline built over time, this one felt a bit forced to me. I liked the characters, but some of the chemistry felt off. You will find yourself cheering for Sydney when her past is revealed, and I liked her with Alex. I liked Alex with Rafe, but I never bought into Sydney and Rafe, nor the three of them together. I can only hope that the next installment will build on their chemistry and tell us more about them. Or, flash forward and tell Marit’s story! That, my friends, will be a story that I can’t wait to read.

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Author

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Busted (The Barnes Brothers #3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

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BUSTED (Barnes Brothers #3) by Shiloh Walker-a review

Busted

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

Like his brothers Zach and Zane, Trey Barnes thought he had found the love of his life. But fate had other plans. A widower who’s had to raise his five-year-old son on his own, Trey has not allowed himself to be with another woman. Until he meets Ressa Bliss at—of all places—a children’s library program. The beautiful librarian is wonderful with his son, Clay, but every time Trey even considers asking her out, he is tortured by guilt.

Fate is indeed fickle. When the two meet again at a conference, this time the attraction is too powerful to resist. But is their connection and passion strong enough to survive Trey’s deep inner torment?

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: BUSTED is the third installment in Shiloh Walker’s adult, contemporary Barnes Brothers romance series focusing the …who else….the Barnes Brothers. This is author and widower Trey Barnes, and librarian Ressa Bliss’s storyline. Although BUSTED is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspectives, BUSTED follows the building relationship between Ressa and Trey. It has been several years since Trey’s wife died, and in the ensuing time Trey is all about the guilt whenever he thinks about moving on with his life. As a single dad to Clayton, Trey embarks on reading time at the library with his son, where he will meet librarian Ressa Bliss. For months, Ressa and Trey will dance around one another, with neither one making any movement in a positive direction. When Ressa announces she is moving on, Trey believes he has lost all hope of asking the beautiful librarian out. A chance meeting at an author’s convention finds Ressa and Trey involved in a one-night stand wherein Ressa will walk away leaving a confused Trey in the dark.

The relationship between Ressa and Trey is one of mutual attraction but there are ghosts and demons that haunt our couple: Trey’s guilt over moving forward, and Ressa’s hidden past that could destroy any chance of a permanent relationship with Trey. Ressa’s earlier life was never easy, and to survive Ressa did some things of which she is not proud; if the truth were to become public knowledge, Trey’s life would never be the same. As our couple begin telling their stories, it will become apparent that there is a connection to the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Trey’s twin brother Travis who keeps hidden the true nature of his job and work. There is a building storyline with Travis when Trey reveals he knows there is more to Travis’s life than what they have been led to believe. The youngest Barnes brother-actor Sebastian –also drops by for a cameo role. We are introduced to Ressa’s Aunt Ang-the woman who raised Ressa; Ressa’s best friend Farrah; as well as Ressa’s troubled cousin Kiara, and five year old Neeci who will become Clayton’s best friend.

BUSTED is an imaginative and inspiring storyline. Although no one can ever put a timeline on grief or guilt, there comes a time when everyone must step out of their comfort zone and give life a second try and in this, Trey is willing to give love a another chance. The characters are animated and engaging; the premise interesting with a bit of a twist. There are moments of heartbreak and sorrow; love and loss; letting go and moving on. Shiloh Walker’s BARNES BROTHERS series is a welcome addition to any romance lover’s collection.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight pink

WreckedWRECKED
The Barnes Brothers #2
by Shiloh Walker
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of WRECKED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release April 2, 2013

In the nineties, Abigale Applegate and Zach Barnes were the most beloved sitcom child stars in the world. Then they grew up and left Hollywood behind…

Whatever happened to Abigale Applegate?

She’s been wondering the same thing.

With her Hollywood dreams long gone, Abigale now has a nice, neat, uncomplicated life—until the day her perfect fiancé needs to talk. Dumped, a little more than shattered, and totally confused, Abigale turns to Zach, her best friend since forever, to help her pick up the pieces. He does it with a gift—a copy of Wreck This Journal. She can vent her frustrations, and sketch out a new plan. Zach just hopes he’s part of it. Because he’s been in love with Abigale his entire life.

When the journal falls into Zach’s hands, he discovers Abigale wants a new man. And fast. Nothing more than a hot distraction. Zach has a strategy, too. He’s going to be that man. It’s his last chance. Abigale might be out to shake up her life, but Zach’s out to reinvent it. Now, all he has to do is convince Abigale that life can go as planned

 

RazedRazed
Barnes Brothers #2
by Shiloh Walker
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: December 2, 2014

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

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of RAZED

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2, 2014

Tattoo artist Keelie Jessup can handle that someone else has claimed the man of her dreams. She’s just not pleased with her remaining options…

Keelie doesn’t believe in the “perfect man.” But the men who are worth the trouble are usually taken—like her business partner Zach Barnes. After a string of bad luck and the lost chance with Zach, Keelie decides that maybe flying solo—and living with suppressed desires—is the key to happiness.

As a photographer, Zane Barnes has an eye for the human form, and his eyes can’t get enough of Keelie’s curves. Unfortunately, Keelie is like most women—always fawning over his little brother, Zach. Zane is about ready to give up, but then a few stolen moments at his brother’s wedding have him thinking maybe there’s a chance there after all. Now he just has to prove that the perfect man does exist…for her.

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The Art of Sin by Alexandrea Weis-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

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THE ART OF SIN by Alexandrea Weis-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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THE ART OF SIN
by Alexandrea Weis
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: May 3, 2015

The Art of Sin

ebook only 99¢: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / SMASHWORDS / iBOOKS

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 3, 2015

Grady Paulson spends his nights pleasing a lot of women.

The bump and grind of being a male stripper is getting old for Grady, and when his cross-country tour takes him to New Orleans everything changes. He meets Allison Wagner; a smart, successful woman who is all wrong for him, but Grady just loves a challenge.

Sparks fly, and soon Allison has Grady rethinking his future. He wants to get out of the stripping game and settle down, but Allison is hiding a devastating secret that could threaten his plans.

Will Grady finally break free from his seedy, sequined world or will her troubled past forever seal their fate?

On Bourbon Street, temptation is the name of the game for all those who practice the art of sin.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE ART OF SIN is the latest contemporary, adult, erotic romance storyline by Alexandrea Weis. The story focuses on thirty two year old former financial advisor and male stripper Grady Paulson, and nurse anesthetist Allison Wagner-a woman ten years Grady’s senior but the woman who calls to Grady’s soul. Grady travels the country wherever the work takes him and his latest contract finds our hero in New Orleans where his agent has set him up at Allison Wagner’s rooming house. What ensues is an intense seduction of Allison Wagner by the new tenant in apartment C.

Alexandrea Weis pulls the reader in a breathtaking, emotional and provocative storyline where the New Orlean’s nightlife takes center stage. From strip clubs to plastic surgery, crooked cops and dirty nightclub owners New Orleans offers up the seedy side of the French Quarter where gangs rule the nights and regret rules the day. We follow along as Grady Paulson seduces not only his landlord but the patrons at the Flesh Factory with his moves, his mind, and his heart.

THE ART OF SIN is a story of romance and love; intrigue and suspense; friendship and loss. There are moments of anguish and heartbreak followed by the realization that life is fleeting with no promise of tomorrow. Alexandrea Weis will pull you in and never let go.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

The screaming hit him first. Like the backwash from a jet engine, the screams vibrated against his body. The women were packed against the edge of the stage, and as he moved out from beneath the white lights, he got a better look at the pit.
Matt had been right. The faces, the screams, the whistles, all looked and sounded the same as every other town he had been in. He had hoped this time it would be different. Why had he expected more?
Beginning his routine, he rolled his hips and occasionally made eye contact with a few of the women, searching for his orgasm girl. A small blonde, not far from the stage, caught his eye. She instantly reminded him of Al. She had the same petite figure and pink lips, but her eyes were not as sarcastic. Making a few spins, he checked out the other women, but kept coming back to the blonde.
When he pulled his silver-sequined shirt open, the motion made the pain from his broken right pinkie shoot up his arm. He kept his stage smile plastered on his face, but he could feel the sweat gathering on his upper lip. To stop thinking about the pain, he shifted his attention back to the small blonde. He pictured her being Al, watching him up on stage. Grady could almost see Al smirking at him from a table next to the stage. This was good. It was helping him get through his routine. He focused on the blonde, all the while thinking of Al, and soon he forgot about his discomfort.
Grady began to feel he was dancing only for the petite woman. He could hear the other women in the crowd shouting for him to “take it all off,” but he ignored them. He struggled getting his shirt off, and he saw the lithe blonde smile when she explored his chest with her big eyes.
Grabbing at his clothing and doing a few of the acrobatic moves he had in his dance routine almost made him see stars as the tormenting pain returned. With only his pants to go, he went to the edge of the stage, ready to bring up the blonde. When he pointed to her, as he seductively swung his hips, the blush on her cheeks almost made him laugh out loud. Al would never have blushed like that. No, Al would have scowled at him.
It took two of her friends to coax her to the stage, but when the little blonde climbed the side steps, Grady was disappointed. Up close, she was nothing like Al. Her features were plain and her mouth was bigger, her lips thicker, and her eyes were brown and not like Al’s angry grey orbs. Giving her some encouragement to have fun with him, he lifted her hands to his chest and rubbed his hips against her.
The blonde squealed, covered her face, and did all the predictable things he expected of his orgasm girl. After he had danced around her a few times, ripped off his pants—damn near cursing as the pain tore through his hand—he gave her a kiss on the cheek and showed her off the stage.
A few last struts, flashing his silver-sequined G-string, and he was done. Snapping up his clothes from the floor with his left hand, he could feel the sweat pouring off him. He quickly trotted off the stage and back behind the curtains.
Out of the view of the audience, he bent over and very gently held his sore pinkie.
“Son of a bitch,” he sighed. How was he going to survive a second show?


taos5

 

About the Author

alexandrea-weis1FOLLOW: Goodreads / Website/ Facebook/ Twitter

Alexandrea Weis is an advanced practice registered nurse who was born and raised in New Orleans. Having been brought up in the motion picture industry, she learned to tell stories from a different perspective and began writing at the age of eight. Infusing the rich tapestry of her hometown into her award-winning novels, she believes that creating vivid characters makes a story memorable. A permitted/certified wildlife rehabber with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Weis rescues orphaned and injured wildlife. She lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans.

Giveaway

Alexandrea Weis is graciously offering an ecopy of THE ART OF SIN to TWO (2) lucky commenters 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 internationally

9. Giveaway runs from May 7-11 , 2015

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Cape Cod Kisses by Bella Andre & Melissa Foster – Review & Giveaway

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Cape Cod Kisses by Bella Andre & Melissa Foster – Review & Giveaway

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Cape Cod Kisses

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Description:
Fall in love on Rockwell Island…Sink your toes into the sandy beaches at the heart of Cape Cod Bay, where family comes first, good friends are around every corner, and true love is waiting beneath the stars.

> When Quinn Rockwell left Rockwell Island a decade ago to build a shipping empire, he never thought he’d return to live on Cape Cod Bay—that is, until his grandfather summons Quinn and his four siblings to take over the prestigious Rockwell Resort. Quinn is already working fifteen-hour days, and the last thing he has time for is his grandfather’s demands. But on his first night back, when Quinn finds a gorgeous and carefree woman skinny-dipping in his favorite cove, he’s tempted to ignore his work for a while…and focus on her instead.

As a free spirit who follows her heart and her dreams, Shelley Walters is not the kind of girl to wait around for Mr. Right, so she heads to Rockwell Island for the honeymoon of her dreams—a solo honeymoon. Ready for a week of sun and fun, she never expected to meet a man like Quinn Rockwell.

Wealthy and intensely driven, Quinn is everything Shelley swore she didn’t want. Refreshingly spontaneous and a true romantic, Shelley is everything Quinn never knew he needed. Drawn together despite their differences, during a week of sizzling-hot passion and deep conversations, they fall head over heels for each other. But when their perfect week on the island is over, will their love survive in the real world?

 

Review:

Cape Cod Kisses by Bella Andre & Melissa Foster is the 1st book in their new series, Love on Rockwell Island. I was so excited to have found out that Bella and Melissa were going to collaborate on a romance series together. Both of them are the best at wonderful sweet family oriented romances, and with them working together, this had to be something awesome. I am thrilled to say I was right, Cape Cod Kisses was a wonderful sweet, sexy, and fun read, with a great couple and secondary characters.

We meet our heroine, Shelley Walters almost immediately, as she arrives on Rockwell Island for a much needed vacation. Shelley runs a coffee café in Maryland, and comes from a wealthy but distant family. After listening to many of her customers talk about their honeymoons, she decides to go on her own “solo honeymoon” to Rockwell Resort. Shelley is not interested in looking for a man, and just wants to have a 7 day sun and fun, and maybe letting herself go doing what she normally does not do. Late at night on the beach, she decides to skinny dip in the ocean, thinking no one will see her.

Quinn Rockwell has been forced home with his siblings to attend a meeting called by their grandfather. Quinn is a workaholic, having successfully built a shipping company, which keeps him busy, and away from Rockwell Island.  Going for a run on the beach to clear his head, he sees a beautiful girl swimming naked in the water. As she stumbles, he runs to her rescue.

This is how it starts….a couple that will win your heart immediately. I absolutely loved Quinn and Shelley together, and adored how their relationship quickly built to a hot and steamy romance.  Both are wealthy, independent and in jobs they love; yet they come from different backgrounds. Quinn has a big family; they are close and care about each other. Shelley is an only child, and comes from a family that is snobbish and not affectionate at all; causing her to not be around her parents, and to avoid relationships with wealthy families. But Shelley will see a different type of family with the Rockwells, something she has always wanted all her life.

Quinn is immediately entranced by the lovely free spirited Shelley, and finds himself rediscovering life on Rockwell Island, his family and his heart. What follows is a beautiful romance that brings together two different people, who we know are truly destined to be together.

Shelley is only on Rockwell Island for 7 days, but she is falling in love with the island and Quinn. Will she stay?   Quinn has a major deal in the works that requires him to go back fast. Will he be able to offer Shelley something more than a long distance relationship?   Why did the grandfather call them all home, and how will it affect them all? You need to read this book to find out all the answers.

Cape Cod Kisses is a delightful, enjoyable and fun story that will have you not only fall in love with Quinn and Shelley, but also with the entire Rockwell family. I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in one day; which should not be a surprise, as it is written by two fantastic authors, who know how to give us heartwarming love stories. Love on Rockwell Island promises to be a fabulous series, and I am anxiously awaiting more stories on the fabulous Rockwell family. I suggest you start with the first book, Cape Cod Kisses.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Authors

 

Giveaway Black and Deep Rose

Bella & Melissa are graciously offering a $20 Gift Card (Amazon or B&N) to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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 Bella Andre on Facebook.for an additional entry

8. Follow Melissa Foster on Facebook for an additional entry

9. Giveaway is open Internationally

10. Giveaway runs from May 7 to 11, 2015

 

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Kilts and Daggers (Highland Spies #2) by Victoria Roberts-Review and Book Tour

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Kilts and Daggers (Highland Spies #2) by Victoria Roberts-Review and Book Tour

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Kilts and Daggers

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

Ever since Lady Grace Walsingham discovered her uncle and sister are spies for the Crown, she has yearned for adventure. She’s counting the days until she can leave barbaric Scotland behind, even if she must endure Highland captain Fagan Murray’s company for weeks.

Fagan has a simple mission: escort the haughty Lady Grace back to England. But nothing is ever easy. The sharp-tongued woman needles him at every turn. But when a menacing threat follows them on their journey, Fagan’s grudging tolerance for Grace turns to respect…and into a perilous attraction that could seal their fate.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: KILTS AND DAGGERS is the second installment in Victoria Roberts’s adult Highland Spies historical, Highland romance series. This is English Lady Grace Walsingham, and Highland Captain Fagan Murray’s storyline. Grace is the sister of Lady Ravenna whom we met in book one My Highland Spy. KILTS AND DAGGERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storyline is revealed where necessary.

Told from third person point of view, KILTS AND DAGGERS follows the building but tumultuous relationship between Grace and Fagan. Following her sister’s wedding to Laird Ruairi Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands, Grace forgoes a return trip to England to stay near her newlywed sister. Grace is betrothed to Lord Daniel Casterbrook but her feelings are ambivalent and confusing especially when a certain Scottish Captain is constantly on her mind. All does not go according to plan when the ‘barbarian’ Highlander Fagan Murray continues to be a thorn in Grace’s snobbish side. When Fagan opts to escort Grace back home, a rogue band of mercenaries will attack and take Grace hostage in a political exchange of prisoners.

The relationship between Fagan and Grace is tumultuous. Grace is a snob; an aristocratic woman raised to be a proper English wife but in this her treatment of Fagan is anything but polite or acceptable. Fagan is an honorable Highlander who has fallen for the acid-tongued beauty, but he is accorded no respect by Grace, due in part to his lack of title and money. As the storyline develops, so too does the relationship wherein Grace will begin to understand her preconceived notions are a little too harsh and without merit. The $ex scenes are intimate and romantic without being too sexually graphic or too erotic but Grace’s need to belittle and insult Fagan Murray got old, real fast, and in this Grace is a difficult character to like.

The world building continues to focus on some of the political temperament of the time-spies, leadership, and the ruling class. Scotland and England are constantly at war and a marriage between a Highland Warrior and the British nobility is never an easily accepted arrangement. Victoria Roberts take the reader through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, rolling hills, and trickling streams of cool waters and darkened caves. Close your eyes and find yourself in the land of green grass and Highland castles.

KILTS AND DAGGERS is a story of adventure, romance and love. There are moments of lighthearted humor balanced with heartbreak and betrayal. The beautiful Scottish Highlands take center stage in a storyline where two very different people fight a war with words and their heart.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

 

 

“Mister Murray, I don’t feel at ease discussing these subjects with you.”
“Then call me Fagan. Mister Murray was my father’s name anyway.”
Grace looked around and then softened her voice. “Now is that truly appropriate?”
“I told ye before. Ye’re a long way from England, lass. Lest ye forget, ye’re in the Highlands now. We do things differently here.”
She lifted a brow. “How could I forget?”
“Ruairi said ye’ll be staying with us for a few weeks. More to the point, I already call Ruairi’s wife Ravenna.” He turned up his smile a notch. “Ye and I are practically like family. Ye will call me Fagan, and I will call ye Grace, or I could always call ye bhana-phrionnsa. I’ll be kind enough to give ye a choice.”
“Ravenna may permit you to call her by her Christian name, but I certainly do not, Mister Murray. Although you do make me laugh, I’m afraid you and I are far from family.”
***
When Grace’s eyes smoldered, Fagan knew he shouldn’t get too close to the flame for fear of getting burned. There was still enough time to take his leave. Otherwise, he’d be verbally sparring with a lass in the middle of the great hall. Ruairi would no doubt have his head for causing mischief with his kin so soon after the wedding.
Fagan slapped both hands on the table and casually stood. Instinctively, he took another step back in case the lass suddenly had a strong urge to reach across the table and throttle him—or worse. Nevertheless, once she heard what he was about to say, the table wouldn’t provide enough space between them.
“Verra well then. I think bhana-phrionnsa suits ye quite nicely.” When Grace’s cheeks turned scarlet, Fagan smiled. “Donna say I didnae warn ye. Remember I did give ye a choice.” He winked at her and then turned on his heel.
“Wait!”
He had a hard time trying to mask his smile. He turned around slowly and lifted a brow. “Aye?”
Grace flew to her feet, walked around the table, and closed the distance between them. She lifted her head, and by the way she was unsteady on her feet, he swore the daft lass was standing on the tips of her toes in a futile attempt to look him level in the eye.
“England and Scotland have been warring for centuries, Mister Murray, yet somehow Scotland has never won.” Lifting her skirts, she brushed his arm with her shoulder and took a few steps away from him.
That was until he called after her and stopped her dead in her tracks. “Cuine a chì mi a-ris thu, Grace?” When will I see you again? He made certain he said the words as though he spoke to his lover, which obviously had the desired effect because her whole body stiffened, and then she left him without a backward glance. Fagan’s mood was suddenly buoyant. He wasn’t exactly sure why he loved to unnerve Princess Grace, but he had one hell of a time doing it.


Guest Post-Black and Blue

To celebrate the release of KILTS AND DAGGERS, the second title in Victoria Roberts’ Highland Spies series, Fagan Murray, the strong and handsome captain of Laird Sutherland’s guard has agreed to sit down with us and answer our questions so you can know more about this rugged Highlander!

Complete this sentence: Not many people know this, but Grace is really good at ______.
Driving me gray. In all seriousness, she’s really good at telling me what to do.

If you had two weeks to travel and unlimited funds, where would you go?
I already live in Scotland. Why would I want to go anywhere else?

 

Series Spotlight

My Highland Spy
Highland Spies #1
by Victoria Roberts
Genre: adult, historical, Highland, romance
Release Date: September 2, 2014

ebook ONLY $1.99 : My Highland Spy (Sept 14Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of MY HIGHLAND SPY

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 2, 2014

This Highland Laird won’t bow to the Crown

Laird Ruairi Sutherland refuses to send his only son away to be educated by the English. And he most definitely will not appear in Edinburgh to pay homage to a liege who has no respect for Scotland. So he does what any laird would do—he lies to the king. The last thing Ruairi expects is a beautiful English governess to appear on his doorstep.

But this lady spy might make him…

Lady Ravenna Walsingham is a seasoned spy who is sent to the savage Highlands to uncover a nefarious plot against the Crown. Playing the part of an English governess—a job easier said than done—she infiltrates the home of Laird Sutherland, a suspected conspirator.

If she doesn’t betray him first

Ravenna soon discovers that the only real threat Sutherland poses is to her heart. But will the proud Highland laird ever forgive her when he discovers the woman he loves in an English spy?

About The Author Black and Blue

Follow: Facebook/ Website/ Goodreads/

Victoria RobertsAward-winning author Victoria Roberts writes Scottish historical romances about kilted heroes and warriors from the past. RT Book Reviews named her “one of the most promising debut authors across the genres,” and she was also a 2013 RT Reviewers’ Choice award winner for X MARKS THE SCOT.

Represented by Jill Marsal of the Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, Victoria is a member of Romance Writers of America® and several local chapters, as well as a contributing author to the online magazine CELTIC GUIDE.

Victoria lives in western Pennsylvania with her husband of twenty one years and their two beautiful children—not to mention one spoiled dog. When she is not plotting her next Scottish adventure, she’s dragging her clan to every Scottish festival under the sun.

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Walking on Sunshine by LuAnn McLane – Review & Giveaway

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Walking on Sunshine by LuAnn McLane – Review & Giveaway

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Walking on SunshineAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Mattie Mayfield is more interested in fishing, four-wheeling, and mudding than being a girlie girl. But acting like one of the boys means she often gets ignored when it comes to romance—especially by Colby, her brother’s best friend. Maybe if she changes the game, she’ll finally start getting some attention.
 
Bad boy musician Garret Ruleman doesn’t fit in with the crowd in Cricket Creek, but there’s something about sweet, unassuming Mattie that catches his eye. Garret intends to ask her out, but all Mattie wants is for Garret to give her a makeover that will force Colby to see her as a real woman.
 
Garret agrees to help in return for lessons on how to become a Southern stud. And as the local girls start falling for the newly countrified Garret, Mattie wonders if in the end, they’d actually be perfect together

 

Review:

Walking on Sunshine by Luann McLane is the 8th book in her wonderful romance series, Cricket Creek. This is a fun sweet series that takes place in a small town, Cricket Creek, Kentucky. Over the last 7 books, we have seen Cricket Creek expand with the arrival of many new people to mix with the long time residents to bring the town into modest success. Garret Ruleman, is our hero in this book, having arrived to help his world famous father, Rick, with his successful music business, which is run in Cricket Creek.

Mattie Mayfield is our heroine, and has lived in Cricket Creek all her life. Mattie has grown up hanging around her brothers, and is often treated as one of the boys. She has a crush on Colby, who only looks at her like his friends kid sister. No one takes Mattie seriously, and she is tired of being ignored as a girl. Mattie wants romance in her life. She meets Garret when she serves him breakfast at her store. They immediately become friends, with each helping each other attain their goals.   Mattie to change her look, and make herself look like an attractive women, in order to get Colby’s attention.   Garret wants to be treated as one of the guys, and wants to make himself a redneck stud.

While they both work to help each other, their friendship, with no benefits, slowly begins to change.   Mattie begins to find herself falling for the handsome Garrett, as he also feels the attraction strengthen for the sweet homegrown pretty, Mattie. But Garret is determined to help Mattie win over Colby, even if it means breaking his own heart. Will they both see the light and what is so obvious to us? Will Garret be able to stay in Cricket Creek, or will his career force him to leave?

As is traditional in this series, there is a background romance of an older couple. In Walking on Sunshine, Laura Lee, a divorced 55 year old local, gets a job as a housekeeper/cook for Country Super star, Shane. Laura has no intention of getting involved, as she feels her chances are over. She doesn’t see that Shane is becoming attracted to her, and avoids any chance of getting to know each other. Will Laura heed her own advice to Mattie and give Shane a chance?

As always, with Luann McLane, this is a fun, sweet enjoyable romance, and we always get a double header.   It is nice to see some of our favorites from the previous books. If you enjoy lighthearted romances, small town atmosphere, friendships, sexy couples, then Walking on Sunshine and the Cricket Creek series is a must read. I will add that these books can be read as standalones, but why not enjoy the entire series, and start from the beginning.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveaway

LuAnn’s publisher is offering a paper copy of WALKING ON SUNSHINE 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 LuAnn McLane   on Facebook.

8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 6 to 10, 2015

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Glimmer by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

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GLIMMER by Beth Kery-Review and Giveaway

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Glimmer
Glimmer #1
by Beth Kery
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: adult,contemporary, erotic, romance, suspense

Glimmer

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

After graduating from her M.B.A. program, Alice Reed is surprised when she’s recruited for the management training experience at legendary Camp Durand, owned by Durand Inc.’s young, billionaire CEO, Dylan Fall. The company usually recruits from Ivy League schools, not insignificant colleges like Alice’s.

Alice enthusiastically accepts, but she still wonders why Dylan would choose a girl from the wrong side of the tracks for the prestigious program. But after a passionate encounter one night, she discovers exactly why—Dylan wants her, and Alice can hardly resist his fierce sexual appetites, though she is amazed that she could appeal to an experienced, sophisticated man like Dylan.

As Dylan introduces her to thrilling, erotic territory, Alice discovers a delicious new part of herself. Night after night, she steals away to find ecstasy and escape in Dylan’s arms. But behind her lover’s powerfully magnetic facade, Alice senses darkness, secrets from Dylan’s past lurking in his beautiful, lonely mansion—secrets that are starting to haunt Alice. And the ghosts of the truth might tear Dylan and Alice apart forever.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: GLIMMER is the first installment in Beth Kery’s new, contemporary, adult erotic romance series focusing on M.B.A. graduate Alice Reed and billionaire CEO of Durand Enterprises Dylan Fall.

The storyline follows Alice as she is recruited for the prestigious Camp Durand-a management trainee program for the best of the best at America’s elite business schools. Alice is all too aware that Durand Enterprises usually recruits from the Ivy League schools and her acceptance into the program comes as a bit of a surprise-Alice grew up in the slums with a drug addicted mother and she attended a lesser known college not on Durand’s radar. Alice’s application interview with Durand CEO Dylan Fall finds Alice both on the offense and defense, but there is an immediate attraction that Alice refuses to acknowledge. As the camp ‘ trainees’ begin their month long management program, Alice begins a secret affair with Dylan Fall.

The relationship between Alice and Dylan is highly sexual and erotic. Dylan likes a little bit of control and kink in the bedroom; there is some definite bondage and discipline play between our couple. But Dylan has a secret that when exposed will change the dynamics of his relationship with Alice; and change Alice’s life forever. The $ex scenes are erotic, exploratory and provocative.

There are several colorful, engaging and interesting supporting characters including a number of fellow management trainee leaders-all vying for the coveted win and a chance to work for Durand Inc.- Thad Schaefer is a young man whose romantic interest in Alice is questionable, and Brooke Seifert who has a history with Thad and several of the other management trainees. We are introduced to Alice’s Red Team camp members-at risk teens from similar backgrounds and low socio-economic status. Camp Durand teams up management trainees with underprivileged kids in an effort to determine who would best be suited at Durand Enterprises. It is a sociological experiment where teams compete against one another and in the process the management trainees vie for a position with Durand Inc. The requisite evil comes in the form of Alice’s main competition-Thad and Brooke.

GLIMMER is an intoxicating and intense storyline with an intriguing premise and exciting twist. Although the build up allowed for a few hints and clues, I realized the ‘truth’ very early on. Beth Kery writes an incredible storyline of loss, love and never giving up.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

giveaway

Beth’s  publisher and The Reading Cafe are offering a paper copy of GLIMMER 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 Beth Kery 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 May 5-9, 2015

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Midnight’s Kiss (ElderRaces #8) by Thea Harrison-Dual Review and Giveaway

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MIDNIGHT’S KISS (Elder Races #8) by Thea Harrison-Dual Review and Giveaway

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MIDNIGHT’S KISS
Elder Races #8
by Thea Harrison
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

Midnight's Kiss

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 5, 2015

In the latest Novel of the Elder Races, two souls who have long buried their passions are about to be consumed…

Ever since their scorching affair ended years ago, Julian, the Nightkind King, and Melisande, daughter of the Light Fae Queen, have tried to put the past behind them—and distance between them. But when a war breaks out between Julian and Justine, a powerful Vampyre of the Nightkind council, they find themselves thrown together under treacherous circumstances…

Kidnapped as leverage against Julian, Melly is convinced that her former lover won’t be rushing to her rescue. But when Julian gives himself up to save her, they both end up Justine’s captives. Armed only with their wits and their anger, Melly and Julian must work together to escape. But will they be able to ignore their complicated history, or will the fiery passion that once burned them blaze again?

••••••••••

Sandy’s Review

REVIEW: MIDNIGHT’S KISS is the eighth full length installment in Thea Harrison’s adult Elder Races paranormal romance series. This is vampire and Nightkind King Julian, and heir to the Light Fae dynasty Princess Melisande’s storyline. MIDNIGHT’S KISS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for cohesion and backstory history, it is best to read the series in order. MIDNIGHT’S KISS focuses on the continuing battle for control of the Nightkind Council and in this, Melly becomes the pawn in a game to take down King Julian.

Told from dual third person perspectives, MIDNIGHT’S KISS focuses on the search and rescue of Melisande. When Melly goes missing, Light Fae Queen Tatiana calls an emergency meeting with the hopes of uncovering the whereabouts of her eldest daughter. Enter Nightkind King Julian-Melisande’s ex lover- and the man who is willing to sacrifice his freedom to save the woman he loves. What ensues is a battle for their lives as they face a known adversary who is willing to kill and destroy everyone in the way.

The prior relationship between Melly and Julian has already been established. Twenty years earlier our leading couple were destroyed by a betrayal-a betrayal known to only Julian but one that has affected their friendship for over two decades. Imprisoned together, Melly and Julian will discover their love for one another has never died, but trusting one another will take something more. The $ex scenes are intimate, provocative and exploratory.

The ensemble cast of characters include several powerful Djinns and vampires; vampire Xavier and his lover Tess (Night’s Honor #7) as well as Melisande’s extended family of Light Fae –Queen Tatiana and Princess Bailey-and an assortment of Fae warriors. Thea Harrison reunites the reader with former Wyr Sentinal Rune and his mate, the ancient vampire Carling. Carling is Julian’s sire and he is the reason Carling has been exiled from the Nightkind Council; Light Fae Warrior Shane is present; as well as gryphon and the current First Sentinel of the Wyr Graydon whose storyline will be told in Shadow’s Edge (Elder Races #9). The requisite evil comes in the form of female vampire Justine who has targeted Julian and Melisande for destruction.

With the release of MIDNIGHT’S KISS, as well as Night’s Honor, Thea Harrison has returned to her fantastic paranormal storytelling. When the author ventured into the Tarot Novellas, the series felt lost; the characters underdeveloped, and their storylines disconnected from the main series. Graydon’s storyline will mark the return to the original Wyr members from the earlier installment in the series. MIDNIGHT’S KISS has passion, romance, betrayal and retribution without the feeling of being rushed or pushed. There are several battle scenes with intense action and nail biting anxiety. MIDNIGHT’S KISS is a welcome addition to Elder Races Series.

 

 
Barb’s Review

Midnights’s Kiss by Thea Harrison is the 8th book in her fantastic Elder Races series. I am a big fan of this series, and I love the Sentinels, which are lead by Dragos. In the last book, the hero was Xavier of the Nightkind, who is Julian’s right hand.To my surprise I loved the book. In Midnight’s Kiss, we continue with the Nightkind, as Julian, their King is our hero. I was not a fan of Julian, especially during the days of Carling and Rune, but, Thea Harrison has done it again. I really enjoyed this story of Julian and Melisandra (Melly), who is the heir to the Light Fae.

Julian and Melly have been at odds for years, since their affair ended with Melly cheating on Julian. Both of them cannot stay in a room together, without them jumping at each others throats. But when push comes to shove, the fire still burns, even if it’s buried deep. At the end of the last book, Justine tried to kill Xavier, and now Julian is hunting her. But in a short time, he discovers that Melly has been kidnapped, and only Julian offering himself as bait can save Melly.

Without giving any spoilers, both end up prisoners of the evil Justine. With Julian suffering loss of blood from feral vampyres, it is Melly who will find a way to pick locks with her hair pins to try and save Julian. They will work together to try and escape the underground maze they are in, as well as survive the dangerous and hungry vamps, who are desperate for their blood.

What follows is a beautiful story of Melly and Julian slowly rekindling their feelings for each other. The last half of the book was very tense and exciting, as they race to the climax trying to stop Justine from her attempt to  gain control of the Nightkind, and killing all of his people. There are some twists, and betrayals that will change the game. Best of all was the wonderful romance between Melly and Julian that also had some steamy sex scenes. They both had to overcome the past, and the truth as to why they broke up all those years ago.

Midnight’s Kiss is a great read from start to finish. We also got a glimpse of some of our regulars, such as Graydon, Carling, Rune, Soren, and Tatiana. Despite my concern about Julian, he turned out to be a great hero, as did Melly. Once again, Thea Harrison gives another great addition to her Elder Races series. The next book will return to the Sentinels and Graydon’s turn.

 

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

 

Giveaway Black and Lime

The Reading Cafe and Thea’s publisher are offering a papercopy of MIDNIGHT’S KISS 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 Thea Harrison 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 USA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 5-9, 2015

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