From Scratch by Rachel Goodman-Review and Giveaway

Posted on July 23, 2015 by Sandy

FROM SCRATCH by Rachel Goodman-Review and Giveaway

From Scratch

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 20, 2015

A down-home, feel-good debut Southern romance, From Scratch explores one woman’s journey back home to Dallas, Texas, where her family is cooking up a plan that doesn’t quite suit her tastes…

Thirty-year-old Lillie Turner grew up with maple syrup stuck to her skin and bacon grease splattered on her clothes, courtesy of working in the family diner. Thank goodness she escaped all that when she moved to Chicago five years ago. Now a successful strategy consultant and newly engaged to a man who complements her like biscuits and gravy, she has everything she wants.

When an urgent phone call about her father’s health pulls Lillie back to Dallas, she soon learns it was a ruse to bring her home so she can run the diner she’d rather avoid and compete in the Upper Crust, an annual baking competition, with no option to withdraw. Lillie is furious and ready to run back to Chicago, but her father’s haggard appearance makes her wonder if he’s hiding something. Things go from bad to worse when Nick, her handsome ex and the only man she ever truly loved, reappears, looking as scrumptious as ever.

Lillie’s trip home forces her to question the path she’s chosen, find her place in the family she abandoned, and wonder if the life she left behind is what she wants after all.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: FROM SCRATCH is a romantic, contemporary storyline from first time author Rachel Goodman that focuses on a second chance for two people destined for one another but torn apart by anger, stress and lies from the past. This is professional consultant Lillie Turner, and Nick Preston’s storyline.

Told from first person point of view (Lillie) FROM SCRATCH follows the rekindling of a relationship between Lillie and Nick, as well as Lillie’s return to her hometown of Dallas, Texas. Five years earlier, following several months wherein Lillie and Nick’s relationship started to implode, Lillie walked away, leaving Dallas behind, and starting fresh in Chicago, Illinois. Struggling to make ends meet, Lillie gets her MBA and focuses on a new life and new career never forgetting the people she left behind. But an urgent message from her father, demanding her return to Dallas, finds Lillie torn between helping her father or running from the man that broke her heart.

Lillie and Nick were childhood friends, high school sweethearts, and eventually lovers but everything began to fall apart as Nick’s internship at the local hospital began to eat away at his personality and his relationship with Lillie forcing a heartbroken Lillie to make a decision that would destroy any hope of a future together. Leaving Nick and her father behind, Lillie embarked on a new direction, and thought she found what she was missing in a new town.

FROM SCRATCH has a large ensemble cast of strong and charismatic characters including Lillie’s friends Annabelle and Wes-a couple whose own relationship is crumbling around them. We are introduced to Lillie’s father Jack Turner, and the local busy body Sullivan Grace who may or may not have designs on Lillie’s dad. There are also numerous friends, extended families, and the local band whose name is beginning to rise on the country music circuit. Lillie’s competition for Nick’s heart is a vindictive woman who targets Lillie with hatred and malice.

FROM SCRATCH is an emotional storyline where small town mentality finds our heroine the object of scorn and derision; gossip and innuendo by the local townsfolk that frequent her father’s diner. There are secrets and stories of which Lillie becomes aware, and in this she no longer feels welcome in the town where she grew up. Lillie is verbally attacked on more than one occasion-and my heart broke for a woman who wanted love and acceptance from the man who pushed her away. There is a happily ever after but the path was not easy for Lillie and Nick. I shed a few tears throughout the story.

Rachel Goodman’s first novel touched on my emotions. Although I wasn’t always a happy camper with the treatment of Lillie Turner, there are always demons to overcome, and bumps in the road in any romantic storyline.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Giveaway

Rachel Goodman and her publisher are offering an ecopy of FROM SCRATCH to THREE (3) lucky commenters at The Reading Cafe.

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8. Giveaway open to international

9. Giveaway runs from July 28 to August 1, 2015

Bleeding Love (Hope Town #2) by Harper Sloan-Review and Book Tour

Posted on July 23, 2015 by Sandy

BLEEDING LOVE (Hope Town #2) by Harper Sloan-Review and Book Tour

bleeding love blog tour

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 14, 2015

I’ve loved once. I gave everything that I had to that love. Blindly believing that nothing could ever take that feeling away from me. Away from us. And when my little world of happiness was ripped from my fingers, I felt a loss that still haunts me to this day.

Now I use that lingering grief as a shield to keep my heart from loving again. It’s that fear that keeps me from letting anyone, except my daughter, get close enough to make it hurt. To make my heart bleed when I inevitably lose again.

Until the day I met Liam Beckett and everything I thought I had protected myself from was shoved back in my face.

He’s on a mission to prove to me that a love worth having is a love worth fighting for.

*Bleeding Love is the second book in the Hope Town series. It will follow Liam and Megan. Each book in the series is a HEA and can be read as a standalone.*

••••••••••••

REVIEW: BLEEDING LOVE is the second installment in Harper Sloan’s adult, contemporary Hope Town erotic, romance series –a spin off from her Corp’s Security series. This is Megan and Liam’s story. Liam is a cop; the son of John ‘Beck’ and Denise ‘Dee’ Beckett (Beck-Corps Security #3); Megan is a single mother and widow who was first introduced at the end of Unexpected Fate (Hope Town #1).

Told from dual first person points of view (Megan and Liam) BLEEDING LOVE follows Liam as he formulates a plan-a list-to seduce Megan. Megan is a romance author, a single mother whose husband Jack was killed while on deployment in the Middle East. Alone and grieving, Megan will be introduced to the ‘gang’ by Cohen Cage, Jack’s friend and fellow soldier, and in the ensuing year, Liam is unable to forget about the woman who can no longer ‘feel’. At Cohen and Dani’s wedding, Liam and Megan will hook up for a one night stand that begins to slowly break down the walls that Megan has erected around her grieving heart.

Megan’s grief over the death of her husband is compounded by guilt-a guilt she is unable to understand or forgive herself for as she endeavors to create a life for her young daughter and herself. The attraction between Liam and Megan is immediate but Megan is unable to bring any man into her life in the fear of destroying her daughter’s heart, as well. The push and pull between Megan and Liam is heightened by Megan’s reluctance to move forward; to forgive herself for what she believes is a betrayal to Jack; and to break down the walls she has so conveniently built to protect her heart.

Liam is a swoon-worthy hero; a man with plenty of patience, and he will need said patience to convince Megan that he is the man for her. Throughout the storyline Liam places himself, front and center, into Megan’s life; he is a man on a mission, and his mission is to bring light and happiness into Megan’s life but Megan is numb to the world around her, and in this Liam knows to win Megan’s heart he must first get Megan to ‘feel’. Liam, never one to give up, pushes Megan a little at a time until she is able to see and feel. The only demons to overcome are Megan’s personal demons from the past-there are no outside threats to their relationship or lives. The $ex scenes are erotic, provocative and seductive.

The secondary and supporting characters include most of the next generation of family and friends from Harper’s Corps Security Series. Beck and Dee’s (Liam’s parents) love and support of their son is reflective of Liam’s personality and love for Megan and her daughter Molly. Megan’s husband Jack is revealed through flashbacks and memories.

BLEEDING LOVE looks at guilt and grief; romance and seduction; letting go and falling in love. Liam is the perfect storybook hero who understands Megan’s wants and needs, but also knows that to move forward Megan must let go of the guilt. The premise is heart-warming and inspiring; the characters engaging, humorous, and expressive; the romance passionate, encouraging and intoxicating.

And who doesn’t love BT Urruela on the cover-a perfect Liam Beckett.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

Reviewed by Sandy

______________________

UNEXPECTED FATE
(Hope Town #1)
by Harper Sloan
Release Date: February 17, 2015
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 17, 2015

Have you ever felt like you were living your life for a future that was predetermined? Like there was some bigger picture you just prayed you would someday see clearly? That picture has been crystal clear to me since I was old enough to recognize it for just what it was.

Or I should say recognize him for who he was.

I’ve loved Cohen Cage since I was a small child. He’s been my everything for the last twenty-two years. I’ve loved him through every girlfriend he’s ever brought home. Through his college years and then mine. I’ve loved him through two deployments. And ever since the day I told him how I felt, he’s acted like I’m a stranger.

My name is Danielle Reid, and it’s time for me to get my man.

Our future is an unexpected fate, and no matter what our parents, siblings, and friends say…it’s going to be worth every second of the fight to make it happen.

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNEXPECTED FATE is the first installment in Harper Sloan’s adult, contemporary Hope Town erotic romance series-a spin off from her Corps Security Series. Hope Town will focus on the next generation-the sons and daughters of the couples with whom we fell in love in the original series. This is Cohen Cage (son of Greg and Melissa Cage) and Danielle Reid’s (daughter of Axel and Isabelle Reid) storyline-a friends to lovers trope.

Dani Reid has been in love with Cohen Cage for as long as she can remember-probably since birth but she is afraid that Cohen does not feel the same way. Sure, they are best friends and the sexual attraction is tangible, but Cohen has never acted upon his feelings, and Dani’s hope for a future with the man she loves begins to waiver now that he is scheduled to deploy overseas. One night of passion will end with a promise of enduring love and a commitment for the future.

Like his father, Cohen is a marine; a Black Ops specialist who is about to head out on assignment but his emotions are jumbled when it comes to his feelings for Dani. He is a man in love but he doesn’t want to place Dani in a position to ‘wait’ when there is a possibility he may never return. Months overseas finds Cohen desperate to return when the news from back home is cryptic and grim. Dani is in trouble and there is nothing he can do from thousands of miles away.

The relationship between Dani and Cohen is a friends to lovers romance that surprises no one but ruffles the hackles of Dani’s over protective and former marine father. The numerous sex scenes are graphic, detailed and very erotic- and at times uncomfortable considering the lack of experience for the heroine-the reality of the situation is questionable but it is an erotic romance storyline of fiction so bending the rules can be expected, but be warned, the descriptive imagery is bolder and more daring than most of Harper’s previous storylines.

UNEXPECTED FATE is a storyline with a large, ensemble cast of characters who play intricate, important and colorful roles throughout the novel. All of the original storyline couples are present including their now adult children who are one another’s best friends and protectors. The ever popular and over the top hair stylist Sway is front and center now that a reality program focusing on his salon is in the works. The second generation will begin to take their place at Corps Security, continuing the storylines of threats, stalkers and protection.

There were a few issues of believability as it pertained to Cohen and his Black Ops preparation and missions. I had to question some events and time frames including the amount of ‘free time’ spared to a marine about to deploy. And some readers may take issue with the sex acts-everything is consensual- but Cohen likes to experiment in the bedroom.

I am looking forward to more exciting storylines in Harper Sloan’s new HOPE TOWN series. I love revisiting the Corps Security boys and the women that they love.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

His mouth leaves mine and with his hand still on my leg, he demands, “Dig your heels in deep, baby.”
I give him what he wants, but not because he told me to. I give him what he wants because when his hand leaves my leg and pushes into the mattress, bringing his body up he goes even deeper into my body and those heels push hard.
Just as he demanded earlier, my hands go to his shoulders on my own accord and as he takes my body hard, my nails dig in with my heels still pushing hard against the small of his back. Our eyes never leave each other’s probing gaze. Never once do I take my eyes away from his, so full of lust that I know there isn’t an ounce of control left in his body.
He drops his head and I lift up to meet him in a kiss so sweet it doesn’t match the powerful way that he’s taking my body. A kiss that gives me more than words ever could at this moment. His hips slow and as his tongue rolls against mine, his hips start to take me in slow, deep rolls. He doesn’t pull back, just rocks his hips against mine.
I push up and cry out when he slips even deeper.
His lips come from mine and his hooded eyes open a sliver. “Feels like heaven,” he says softly. “Everything, darlin’. Feels like everything.

About The Author Black and White

harper sloane Harper lives in small town Georgia just a short drive from her hometown of Peachtree City. She (and her 3 daughters) enjoy ruling the house they dubbed ‘Estrogen Ocean’, much to her husbands chagrin. Harper has a borderline unhealthy obsession with books; you can almost ALWAYS find her with her eReader attached. She enjoys bad reality TV and cheesy romantic flicks. Her favorite kind of hero–the super alpha kind!

Harper started using writing as a way to unwind when the house went to sleep at night; and with a house full of crazy it was the perfect way to just relax. It didn’t take long before a head full of very demanding alphas would stop at nothing to have their story told.

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Exposed (Captive #2) by Brighton Walsh-a review

Posted on July 22, 2015 by Sandy

EXPOSED (Captive #2) by Brighton Walsh-a review

Exposed

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 21, 2015

In this sexy, suspenseful New Adult novel, a young woman hiding from her criminal past is taken captive by her ex-boyfriend, the ultimate bad boy.

Evie is about to embark on the perfect life. Beautiful, poised, and engaged to a rising business star, she fits the part of trophy wife perfectly, except for one thing: her entire identity is a lie.

Five years ago she created a new identity for herself, but it all crashes back when something she witnessed years ago comes back to haunt her. Now she’s in danger of losing more than her social status.

Determined to protect the careful life she’s built for herself, Evie doesn’t want anything to do with Riley, the criminal for hire who broke her heart years ago. But Riley has other ideas. He’s never forgotten Evie, and to protect her, he steals her away. Hidden from the world, sparks begin to fly as old memories resurface and their passion reignites.

••••••••

REVIEW: EXPOSED is the second installment in Brighton Walsh’s new adult, contemporary CAPTIVE romantic, suspense series. This is Evie and Riley’s storyline-a second chance for two people ripped apart by someone else’s greed and anger. EXPOSED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Riley is Gage’s (Ghost) younger brother, first introduced to us in CAPTIVE (book one). Any necessary information from the previous storyline is imparted where necessary.

Told from dual first person points of view (Riley and Evie) the storyline follows the rekindling of a relationship once thought dead and gone. Five years earlier Evie was presumed dead, and in the ensuing time Riley has placed all of his anger and grief into the mercenary lifestyle as part of a crew hired to enforce an illegal set of rules for anyone disobeying those in control. But Evie has been on the run; in hiding with a new name and identity, and a fiancé who knows very little about Evie’s previous life. When her picture is spotted in a social column, Evie’s life on the run begins anew, but this time Riley is the first one on the scene, to ensure Evie remains alive and a part of his future.

The relationship between Evie and Riley has already been established-high school sweethearts whose love for one another grew through their mutual connection to the ‘crew’- but the truth about Evie’s presumed death was kept secret from Riley-Evie had uncovered some information that had placed her life in danger, and to protect everyone she loved, Evie remained ‘dead’ and missing for close to five years. Riley’s anger begins to overshadow his love for Evie but when the truth is revealed, Riley becomes Evie’s number one protector and guardian. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive; Brighton Walsh has upped the erotic factor with the release of book two. Evie tends to use $ex as a distraction both for herself and Riley, and Riley is never one to refuse what is being offered.

The secondary and supporting characters include Gage and Madison from CAPTIVE book one, as well as a number of former and current members of the ‘crew’. Frankie returns as part of the requisite evil on the hunt for Evie; and Aaron sides with Gage and Riley as they endeavor to protect Evie from Max-the man who has ordered Evie’s capture.

The world building continues to follow the members of the crew-a group of mercenary –style thugs and enforcers who are hired for any number of illegal reasons and threats. Although Gage is no longer a part of the crew, his involvement remains to try and protect his brother and the woman that he loves. Evie and Riley spend most of their time (and the story) together, stuck in an apartment where the walls begin to close in around them, and in this, the suffocation factor bled into my enjoyment of the storyline.

EXPOSED uses some memories, flashbacks, and nightmares to expose the reader to Evie’s life-the reasons she is on the run, and why she is reluctant to have any contact with her family. This particular portion of the storyline is a major factor in the character’s personality growth and background, as well as an issue that the author was hoping to bring attention to, but the development is somewhat incomplete.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series spotlight

Captive CAPTIVE
Captive #1
by Brighton Walsh
Genre: new adult, contemporary, romance

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of CAPTIVE

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 24, 2015

He’s the most dangerous man she’s ever met…and she’s falling in love with him.

Madison Frost is desperate to escape her life. Daughter of a prominent businessman, she has everything a girl could ask for. Except for a family who’s present in her life, and anyone to talk to outside the four walls of the prison she calls home. Madison dreams of one day leaving her life behind. She never thought being kidnapped is how it would happen.

Now she’s being held captive by a man who’s as frightening as he is sinfully gorgeous. Enormous, muscular, and filled with secrets, the man they call Ghost is an enigmatic mercenary, and Madison is trapped with him. She doesn’t know who hired him or why, but the more time she spends at his mercy, the more she realizes he’s not what he seems. Beneath his rough exterior lies an unexpected gentleness and a heart as broken and battered as her own.

But as Madison lets down her walls, Ghost holds tight to his, hiding secrets that could destroy everything.

Hold Me Close by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

Posted on July 22, 2015 by Barb

Hold Me Close by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

Hold Me Close
O’Learys series – Book #6
by Shannyn Schroeder
Release Date – July 21, 2015

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Description:
Maggie O’Leary is finally coming home to Chicago. After more than a year in Ireland, she’s ready to make a plan for her future. But first, she’ll have to confront the tragedy that scarred her so deeply. Asking for a job in the family bar is the first step, and it’s one her family isn’t entirely happy about. At least Shane Callahan, her best friend in the world, is behind her a hundred percent. He’s also a hundred percent more lovable than she remembered…

Shane is determined to keep Maggie safe, even if it means working three jobs and giving up sleep to be around during her shifts at the bar. But when Maggie boldly tells him she needs more than a loyal friend now, Shane knows a single night together won’t be possible. The idea of spirited Maggie in his bed is electrifying, but will she believe he wants to give her his heart, too?

Review:

Hold Me Close by Shannyn Schroeder is the 6^th and final book in her wonderful O’Learys series. Maggie O’Leary is our heroine, and she has just returned from a year in Europe. 5 years ago she was raped by her ex-boyfriend and has been trying to overcome her fears and the memories. Maggie calls on her best friend, Shane to pick her up at the airport, and not tell her family, so that she had time to settle before they came as a group to see her. She loves Shane as a friend, someone she has always been comfortable with, confided things to each other and hung around together all the time.

Shane Callahan, is our hero, and he has secretly loved Maggie, more than as a friend, all these years. Shane feels he needs to protect her, as does all the O’Leary Family. He knows that Maggie would get mad, so he privately works out a deal with Ryan O’Leary to work part time at the bar, and take an apartment above, since Maggie is planning on doing that. He wants to be close to be able to watch and protect her.

Maggie is determined to get her life back, and become normal again. She still has some issues, such as always locking the door no matter where or when; and she has not had sex for 5 years. Maggie does dream of a hot sexy fantasy man each night. Maggie also sees a therapist, and tells her about how she freezes during any attempt at sex. The therapist tells her she needs to be able to find someone she trusts to help her through her crisis.

After her sister, Moira teases her about her fantasy man possibly being Shane, Maggie laughs it off, but decides perhaps he is just what she needs to get past her sexual fears. She decides to ask Shane to have sex with her, just as an experiment. Shane is shocked at first, but understanding what she wants, and he having loved her for so long finally agrees, but only if she allows him to do this at his pace. As much as he wanted her, he was determined to take it slow, and allow her to relax with him. I loved Shane, as he was a sweet, caring, affectionate, loving and a hot hot hunk.

This was a great friends to lovers story, with the added element of the scars that remain from rape. Maggie was a tough heroine, though at times, even if I understood, she did annoy me a little that she was not seeing how much Shane loved her, and that she truly loved Shane. All she could see is that she loved him as a friend, and did not want to lose their friendship. Of course, my annoyance was probably due to me wanting both of them together.

Shannyn Schroeder has given us an emotional, but sweet romance, and the chance to spend time with all the O’Learys, as we say goodbye to them. Hold Me Close was an excellent story with great storyline and a wonderful couple we rooted hard for. I for one will miss the O’Learys.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

The Sincerest Form of Flattery by John L. DeBoer-Review and Guest Post

Posted on July 21, 2015 by Sandy

THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY by John L. Deboer-Review and Guest Post

The Sincerest Form of Flattery

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2015

Jack Lansing, M.D. has become a bestselling mystery writer. At a book-signing event he meets a foemer colleague who, unbeknownst to Jack, has carried a grudge against him for thirty years. Soon after, murders start popping up in and around Jack’s peaceful North Carolina beach town. The murders mimic plots in his books, making him a suspect. Jack must convince the police and the FBI of his innocence while trying to solve the mystery himself. Because, he realizes, he and his wife could be the killer’s final victims. It’s a chilling tale of twists and turns. But this time, Jack doesn’t know how it will end.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY is the third installment in John L. DeBoer’s adult, contemporary, suspense series focusing on Jack Lansing M.D. THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous storylines is imparted where necessary.

Told from first person point of view (Jack Lansing) and several third person perspectives THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY focuses on a serial killer or killers whose victims and murders are copycat killings from Jack Lansing’s best selling mystery novels. As the murders take on a familiar tone, Jack begins an investigation of his own suspecting the killer is someone looking for revenge from the past. Not one but two series of killings sparks the interest of investigators when all of the clues point to the premise of Jack Lansing’s books.

The secondary and supporting cast consists of many of the previous storyline characters including Jack’s new wife Erica; Erica’s ex Steve and his new wife Ann; as well as several members of various law enforcement from local police to the FBI. The requisite evil holds a long-standing personal grudge against Dr. Jack Lansing. The killer(s) is known to the reader; there is no mystery to the identity of the people involved but the suspense comes in the form of the expectancy for what is going to happen next.

John L. DeBoer weaves a fantastic tale of anticipation and suspense wherein our leading hero is, once again, both suspect and potential victim of a serial killer looking to even the score for a perceived wrong from the past. The premise is energetic and intriguing yet uncomplicated with exciting twists and turns merging several intersecting paths of murder and revenge; the characters are well rounded, charismatic and engaging. John’s style of writing is sophisticated, meticulous, and realistic.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

First Person vs Third Person (Or Both?)

The Sincerest Form of Flattery is written in first person for the protagonist, Jack Lansing, but in third person for the antagonist and the other characters. I have, though, written other novels that use only third-person narratives. So what determines what I use for a particular novel? Bottom line is, I don’t really know.

Interestingly, I realized as I wrote this post that my three novels using the first person all involved a main character I could identify with. An alter ego, as it were. So putting parts of myself into the protagonist perhaps unconsciously drew me to write him in the first person.

But getting back to the point-of-view options, I think that the first person brings a sense of immediacy to the story. The protagonist describes in real time his reactions to situations. This brings the reader into his space, his mind, rather than keeping the reader at a distance as an observer. This, in effect, coerces the reader to be the main character’s ally, or at least to give him the benefit of the doubt. (Other than that all my protagonists to date have been male, I use the male pronoun for convenience here.) This, though, necessitates that the protagonist be a character who, at a minimum, does not turn off the reader that will be stuck with the narrator for the entire book and will be tasked to root for him. And then there’s the disadvantage of knowing the story-teller has to survive whatever ordeal will face him, the opening narration by the dead William Holden in Sunset Boulevard notwithstanding.

Although we know who we’re supposed to root for usually in a third-person story, it lacks this more intense personal involvement with the protagonist in my view. Now, as I stated above, my first-person novels have also included third-person points of view for the other characters, and I write them in subjective third. This lets me have my cake and eat it too, because it opens up possibilities only available otherwise in exclusively third-person books. All-first-person works well for mystery novels, and my stories do have some mystery in them, but I write in the thriller genre. For me, being able to show the reader what is happening outside of the protagonist’s awareness is important. Nelson DeMille, Harlan Coben, and Scott Turow, among others who write in my genre, have used this POV combination. As has Stephen King.

Having actions and emotions of the antagonist and other characters come as surprises to the protagonist when realized can be exciting at the reveals, and it does create suspense as we, along with our hero, wonder what’s going on. But I think even more suspense can be generated by showing the other sides of the conflict. The “Don’t go down into that cellar!” tension has more impact, in my opinion, if the reader knows what lies in wait there, rather than guessing.

Aside from the alter ego thing I mentioned, I have no preference for writing either in all-third person or a combination of first and third. I’ve read good thriller novels written in first person exclusively (Harlan Coben comes to mind again), but it’s not a style I like for my stories.

~~John L. DeBoer~~

About the Author

John L Deboer Follow John: Goodreads / Website/ Facebook / Twitter/ RAP

After graduating from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, John L. DeBoer, M.D., F.A.C.S. completed his surgical training in the U.S. Army and then spent three years in the Medical Corps as a general surgeon. Thirty years of private practice later, he retired to begin a new career as a writer.

When not creating new plot lines for his novels, Dr. DeBoer pursues his interests in cooking, the cinema, and the amazing cosmos. He’s an avid tennis player, and his yet-to-be-fulfilled goal is to achieve a level of mediocrity in the frustrating game of golf.

The father of two grown sons, he lives with his wife in North Carolina.

Bind Me Before You Go by Harper Kincaid – a Review

Posted on July 21, 2015 by Barb

Bind Me Before You Go by Harper Kincaid – a Review

Bind Me Before You Go Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
His heart is bound tighter than the bondage he craves…

Determined to put her past behind her, Cassidy Peyton moves to the Big Apple. But New York has a few dark secrets of its own, including Serve, an exclusive BDSM club. It’s a place she isn’t sure she’s ready for, until she sees him watching her. Hot. Intent. Knowing. With eyes that leave her stomach tied in knots, because the loneliness he’s trying to hide matches her own.

Security expert David Cavill has more secrets than any man should. Secrets that forever shut down any possibility of love, marriage, or family. Yet Cassidy draws him in, an intoxicating combination of strength, candor, and sensuality that David can’t resist. But as their bond deepens, Cassidy must decide if she can love a man whose heart is bound tighter than the form of bondage he craves…

Review:

Bind Me Before You Go by Harper Kincaid was a great book. I loved these characters.

David likes to tie his partners up, but not all are too keen. He also has a dark family secret, and once we find out what it is, it’s not as bad as he thinks, but to David, it’s been a heavy burden and one he wasn’t willing to share again, (not after his previous fiancée told him that his family were a bunch of freaks!) so he guards his heart, willing only to share his time In between his security jobs. He doesn’t want to fall in love, until he meets Cassidy……

Cassidy moved to New York for a new start, her friend asks if she would come with her to a club, intrigued, Cassidy finds herself in a different type of club.

Meeting David intrigues Cass greatly, they connect almost instantly, both are wary, but Cassidy wants to explore this new world, and wants David to guide her.

The story is intense and drops us into the world of ropes and pulleys pretty quick, but you get that between them, their attraction to each other is almost electric.

David makes Cassidy aware that this is only short term, but he doesn’t count on his heart taking a different turn. And when Cassidy meets his family, he expects her to turn tail and run for the hills.

The rest of the characters are all important, there is nothing worse, than reading a book full of people who really didn’t need to be there.

Harper Kincaid did an amazing job of bringing this story to life, it’s very detailed and full of passion.

If you don’t like your books too hot, then I’d leave this on the shelf, but if you are looking for something a little different, then please, pick this one, I loved it, and I’m off to look for more by the same author.

Reviewed by Julie B

Copy provided by Publisher

Harmonized by Mary Behre – a Review

Posted on July 20, 2015 by Barb

Harmonized by Mary Behre – a Review

Harmonized Amazon / Barnes & Noble/ Kobo / BAM

Description:
After nearly dying on assignment, Tidewater police officer Zig Harmon has been awarded the Silver Star and desk duty. But handling every case that walks through the door while his entire department is out hunting a serial killer is nothing compared to dealing with his former flame, Karma De La Cruz.

As much as she hates it, Karma knows that her best chance of finding the kidnapped baby haunting her visions is the man she once left behind. Forced to work together, Karma and Zig start to realize that they may have let go of something incredible. But now, time is running out, both for the missing infant and for their chance to start again…

Review:

Harmonized by Mary Behre is a novella in her Tidewater series. Harmonized is a novella that precedes the next full length book, Energized, coming in August. This was a nice exciting story, with a sweet romance between our heroes in this story, Zig and Karma.

Zig Harmon, whom we met in the earlier books, is on desk duty due to injuries on the job. To his surprise, he sees his ex Karma De La Cruz, come to the police department. Karma left him years before, without telling him why, and now she needs his help. Karma has physic abilities that give her visions. She returns to Tidewater to help prove her friend is innocent of killing her baby, as she jumped off the bridge. Karma insists that the child is still alive, with her friend in the hospital unconscious. Zig is aware of Karma’s abilities, but all the evidence points to her friend being guilty. Despite their awkwardness about the past, they agree to work together to discover the truth before the child dies.

What follows is an exciting adventure, as Zig begins to realize that Karma’s visions are real, and they race to find the culprit. While this is going on, the chemistry between them is unavoidable to resist, as they both succumb to their lust for each other. Will Zig and Karma stay together? Will they be able to find the child in time, and prove her friend’s innocence?

Mary Behre’s Tidewater series is a wonderful romance suspense, with great characters and exciting storylines. Harmonized was a perfect read to hold us over until the next Tidewater book, Energized.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Satisfaction (Club X #4) by K.M.Scott-Review and Giveaway

Posted on July 20, 2015 by Sandy

SATISFACTION (Club X 4) by KM Scott-Review and Giveaway

Satisfaction
Club X #4
by KM Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance
Release Date: July 13, 2015

Satisfaction

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 2015

Return to Club X one more time…

Cassian March finally found a reason to give up his player ways. Crazy in love, he and Olivia are ready to take the next step and make it official, but just when life is perfect is exactly when everything can slip away.

Stefan March has lived in the shadow of his two older brothers for too long. With Shay, he sees a chance to finally be the man nobody thinks he can be. But old family wounds have a way of opening up, and sometimes love may not be enough to heal them.

Kane Jackson knows a good man would be by Abbi’s side as she prepares to give birth to their child, but he’s not a good man. Or at least that’s what he thinks. Willing to do anything to protect her, he hides himself away so he can’t hurt her. Abbi still believes in him, but will her love be able to overcome years of him being told he’s only meant to hurt?

The three brothers of Club X have all that money can buy, but will they find the happiness each of them wants more than anything else in the world?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: SATISFACTION is the fourth installment in KM Scott’s Club X adult, contemporary, erotic romance series focusing on three brothers: Cassian, Stefan and their half brother Kane. SATISFACTION is an ensemble storyline that looks at three couples-their lives, their loves and their futures covering approximately six years in the life.

Told from six alternating (Cassian, Olivia, Stefan, Shay, Kane and Abbi) first person points of view SATISFACTION is an ensemble storyline that spans the spectrum of intense emotional highs and lows; heartbreak and happiness; passion and hate. Three couples following differing paths and battling personal demons that lead to self awareness and self discovery for everyone involved. Through it all, Alexandria March stands by each of her children and the choices they make.

Abbi and Kane’s story unfolds like a collapsing house of cards as Kane Jackson battles a self fulfilling prophecy of pain and hurt. Cassian and Olivia’s relationship struggles with Olivia’s issues about the future; and Stefan and Shay come to a mutual understanding about love, responsibility, and their private lives. We have a front row seat as Kane’s self hatred affects everyone in his life never realizing that the hurt he is trying to avoid is exactly what he has let happen to those he loves.

KM Scott takes the reader on an emotional journey; a passionate and inspiring storyline about three brothers and the choices they make. The premise is seductive; the characters heartbreaking and intense; the happily ever after an unfolding story of love and understanding. Buckle up and have your box of tissues ready because the roller coaster ride is about to begin.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Satisfaction teaser

Series Spotlight Black and White

Temptation
Club X #1
by KM Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance
Release Date: August 3, 2014

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

Watch the fan made trailer for :

Temptation (Club X1) —> https://vimeo.com/99169807

Temptation July 14 The Club X Series, a scorching hot new erotic contemporary romance series by New York Times bestselling author K.M. Scott.

Cassian March, the public face of Tampa’s most exclusive nightspot, Club X, has a great life. Women, sex, and money are his for the taking, and no man indulges his desires more. Life is short, and he plays hard. He lives by only one rule—never let a woman get close.

Olivia Lucas needs a job, and if that means working at a club that specializes in making members’ wildest fantasies come true, then that’s what she’ll do. A girl’s got to pay the rent, right? She never expected to fall for the gorgeous owner of Club X, though, but a man like him would never go for someone like her. Or would he?

________________

Surrender
Club X #2
by KM Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance
Release Date: November 3, 2014

Watch the fan made trailer for:

Surrender (Club X2) —-> http://vimeo.com/109055074

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

Surrender Oct 14 The second book in the bestselling Club X series

Stefan March lives for a good time. Born into wealth, he sees everything in terms of what he can have, especially women. So far, life has denied him nothing and no one. When he meets his newest bartender, he instantly knows who his next conquest will be, but Shay’s not like the usual women he collects. To get her, he’ll have to be more than just the player he’s always been.

Shay Callahan is beautiful, determined, and intelligent. She’s got plans for her life, and they don’t include getting sidetracked by a man, and certainly not her wealthy player boss. Her job at Club X is for one thing—money to fund her education—but if she can make Stefan March see he’s not God’s gift to women, all the better. She never expects to find out there’s more to him than meets the eye.

As different as day and night, can these two see past who they think they are to find love?

__________

Possession Jan 15 Possession
Club X #3
by KM Scott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: January 22, 2015

Amazon.com / Barnes and Noble / KOBO / ibooks

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 22, 2015

Kane Jackson, the ruler of the fantasy section of Club X, has always been different from his brothers. The bastard son of Cassian March III, he grew up without the money and privilege Cassian and Stefan enjoyed from the March name, instead only knowing his father as the man who abandoned him and seeing himself as unloved and unwanted. He let love in once and like everything else in his life, all that came from it was pain. His heart hidden behind the walls he’s built since then, Kane is now just the dark figure who rules over the fantasies of others but has none himself.

Abbi Linde can’t seem to get a break. Too many bad men and bad choices have left her bruised and broken, but the opportunity to dance at Club X could change everything. For the first time, she might be able to make a life for herself and find the happiness she longs for. After what feels like a lifetime of heartbreak, Abbi still believes one day her dreams will come true and she’ll find the love that’s eluded her.

Even the darkest heart craves the light, but will the darkness be too much for love to overcome with these two souls?

About The Author Black and White

Gabrielle Bisset

A writer for years in other genres, K.M. Scott writes sexy contemporary romances like the ones that she loves. In love with love from the moment she picked up her first romance novel, she considers herself blessed that she has the chance to tell her own characters’ stories now. When she’s not writing, she can be found reading, feeding her addiction to TV, or cooking a new dish for family and friends. She loves to hear from readers, so drop by her Facebook page and say hi or e-mail me at kmscottauthor@gmail.com.

Author Contact Info:
Website / Google Plus / Facebook / Goodreads / Newsletter / Tumblr / TSU

Giveaway -black and white

There are TWO (2) ways to WIN !

KM Scott has graciously offered a signed paper copy of SATISFACTION Club X #4 to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

NOTE: Facebook is not responsible for the giveaway.

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. ***IMPORTANT*** Please LIKE and Follow KM Scott on Facebook

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4. ***SHARE this giveaway on Facebook and TAG 2 (two) friends***

5. LIKE The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK.

6. ***Come back and comment “Done” on this post***

7. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only.

8. Giveaway runs from July 20-26, 2015

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Click HERE to enter the rafflecopter giveaway !

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Monthly Archives: July 2015

From Scratch by Rachel Goodman-Review and Giveaway

FROM SCRATCH by Rachel Goodman-Review and Giveaway

Bleeding Love (Hope Town #2) by Harper Sloan-Review and Book Tour

Exposed (Captive #2) by Brighton Walsh-a review

EXPOSED (Captive #2) by Brighton Walsh-a review

Hold Me Close by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

Hold Me Close by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

The Sincerest Form of Flattery by John L. DeBoer-Review and Guest Post

THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY by John L. Deboer-Review and Guest Post

Bind Me Before You Go by Harper Kincaid – a Review

Bind Me Before You Go by Harper Kincaid – a Review

Harmonized by Mary Behre – a Review

Harmonized by Mary Behre – a Review

Satisfaction (Club X #4) by K.M.Scott-Review and Giveaway

SATISFACTION (Club X 4) by KM Scott-Review and Giveaway

Temptation (Club X1) —> https://vimeo.com/99169807

Surrender (Club X2) —-> http://vimeo.com/109055074