Monthly Archives: August 2015

The Arrangement by Nicolette Hugo-a review

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The Arrangement by Nicolette Hugo-a review

The Arrangement

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Nell Harper’s got her life all figured out:

Build a successful law career, find Mr. Right, then have 2.3 kids and a white picket fence. Everything is going to plan until a handsome stranger stops her from stepping in front of a speeding car.

Vincent Mason, rising politician, not only rescues Nell from death but from her safe but predictable life as he introduces her to the darker pleasures of domination and submission. What starts as a six month arrangement of sexual liberation turns into a deeper emotional exploration and Nell soon finds herself letting go of preconceived ideas of love and lust.

But can Nell trust Vincent enough to truly surrender herself?
And can she trust herself enough to listen to what her heart truly wants?

REVIEW

3.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Before I get into the meat and taters of this review I just want to state that I am a huge fan of erotica that features BDSM. Add a dash of great story line and you have a very happy reader on your hands. The Arrangement by Nicolette Hugo really hit its mark on some aspects and missed on others.

Nell Harper is a lawyer by trade, strong minded, set on a planned path of life and so not ready for the man that is about to rock her safe world. Vincent Mason is a up and coming politician, absolute hard core Dom who only engages in contracted relationships. When a chance encounter brings these two together, a contract is signed for a no holding back, intense sexual relationship with no icky love stuff involved. The last month of this contract finds them living the Dom/sub full time and breaking all the rules they have laid out. Before they know it, lines are blurred, crossed, and they find themselves asking much more of the other.

Overall this is a good book. I had a bit of trouble with the lack of character development, which led to a disconnect. Being an emotional reader, I crave that connect with the leads in a novel. Don’t get me wrong, there was a lot of steamy scenes and the storyline had a great path to travel, but there was no build up or anticipation. It was like page one .. BAM … off we go, and we are going fast. I did however find myself rooting for these two and I did enjoy reading the angst, perhaps soon to be unexpected love this couple faced.

I will read more from Nicolette Hugo and I do recommend this read to fans of erotica.

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

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Here All Along (Kelly Brothers #7) by Crista McHugh-a review

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Here All Along (Kelly Brothers #7) by Crista McHugh-a review

Here All Along

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About the book: Release Date August 26, 2015

Movie star Gideon Kelly has always harbored a secret crush for his long-time friend and assistant, Sarah. One sizzling on-screen kiss is enough to convince him she’s the only woman for him, and he’s determined to prove to her they have all the makings of an epic Hollywood romance.

Sarah Holtz rose to stardom as a child only to crash and burn in her late teen years. Gideon was there to help put the pieces of her life back together, and she now relishes her life far away from the paparazzi flashes. Her need for privacy is the one thing holding her back from exploring something more with him. When a video of their kiss goes viral, she’s left wondering if he’s worth the risk of stepping back into the spotlight to become his leading lady.

Review:

Gideon Kelly, at least for me, has almost been an enigma throughout the Kelly Brothers series. I mean, the others aren’t unbefitting my adoration, but we’ve not really heard a lot about Gideon. Only that he is super busy and they don’t get to see each other a lot. (That is, until mama, Maureen Kelly, gets her can full of that business.) Here All Along begins with Gideon being sent on location for his latest film. Once he and his entourage arrive and get settled, a chance encounter with two of his co-stars sets things into motion that neither Gideon nor Sarah saw coming. Even though Gideon has been crushing on Sarah for a long time, his possessiveness not only surprises him, but motivates him to manipulate, with the help of one of his hot co-stars, his time with Sarah to try and make her see that they belong together. Sarah, who has known for a long time that Gideon wants more, is surprised to find herself….jealous… of Gideon’s other co-star. What follows will have you rooting for them both, even though at times you’ll want to reach in and pop one/both of them upside their thick heads! Which, now that I think about it, Maureen Kelly actually takes care of that for us! 😉

Here All Along is another wonderfully written book by Crista McHugh, and the last one about the Kelly Brothers. (I keep looking online for a support group!!) Gideon and Sarah were both wonderfully written, even though I felt like I got to know Sarah better than I did Gideon. Their chemistry was awesome. I felt for Gideon when he was torn between letting Sarah go to follow her dream of being a fashion designer, as much as I felt for Sarah not wanting to leave Gideon. Their angst was honest and their true feelings for each other will make your heart smile, even though it took a trip from Mama Kelly to make things really get jumping!

I really do refuse to believe that this is the last book in this series, or the last we will hear from the Kellys. There are a number of things that Crista could do, so I just have my fingers crossed that we’ll get another one………..or 172. ☺ So, here I go again. If you aren’t reading Crista McHugh, you are seriously missing out. They are fast reads that start at the very first word and you never feel slighted within one of her stories. And, once again, well done Crista McHugh! Very, very well done!

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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Find Me (The Found Duet #2) by Laurelin Paige-Review and Book Tour

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FIND ME (The Found Duet #2) by Laurelin Paige-Review and Book Tour

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FIND ME
The Found Duet #2
by Laurelin Paige
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance
Release Date; August 25, 2015

find me cover

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2015

The Conclusion of Gwen and JC’s Story

Gwen Anders came to The Sky Launch to begin fresh, away from the horrors of her past. She fit in quickly, becoming good friends with her co-manager, Alayna Withers and the owner of the club, Hudson Pierce. Though the circumstances that brought her here were not the best, she’s never felt more at home.

But starting a new life means letting go. And there are some things she doesn’t want to leave behind – like JC, the man who taught her how to let loose. The man she wasn’t supposed to fall in love with. The man she doesn’t want to lose.

Now, with the reason she ran still a threat, Gwen fears she’ll never be able to move on completely. And if she does, can she still hold out hope that JC loves her enough to come and find her?

•••••••••••••••

NOTE: You can read Sandy’s review of FREE ME (book 1) at the end of this review.

REVIEW: FIND ME is the second installment in Laurelin Paige’s contemporary, adult The Found Duet erotic, romance duology focusing on the mysterious billionaire JC Bruzzo, and night club manager Gwen Anders. FIND ME should not be read as a stand alone as most of the premise builds upon the events of book one –FREE ME-wherein the storyline’s cliffhanger leaves the reader wondering where everything went wrong. The Found Duet is a spin off from Paige’s FIXED SERIES but you do not have to have read the previous series to understand the premise.

Told from first person point of view (Gwen Anders) with an epilogue written from JC’s point of view, FIND ME advances the duology one year and in all that time Gwen has not heard from or seen the man with whom she had fallen in love. Threats against our couple found Gwen and JC going in opposite directions leaving a grieving Gwen considering her options for the future. One year is a very long time to pine for the man who promised one day he would return but pressure from family and friends finds Gwen seeking out a relationship from another direction.

FIND ME is a story of passion and romance; heartbreak and betrayal; letting go and moving on. There are tender moments wrapped in a comforting blanket of promises for the future that are often eclipsed by the darkness that threatens to destroy everything they have. JC is a broken man who desperately wants to protect the people that he loves but in doing so leaves a trail of heartbreak and pain in the wake of his need to run once again.

Hudson Pierce and his wife Alayna Withers-Pierce play a secondary and supporting role throughout the series. Gwen’s sister Norma and the man in her life Boyd must consider their own options towards a future together; and Gwen’s brother Ben, whose own life begins an upward climb towards a happily ever after. We are introduced to Hudson’s younger brother Chandler- a man who fell in love with a woman whose heart belongs to someone else. Chandler’s story will be told next in CHANDLER (April 2016). The price paid for Gwen and JC’s happily ever after is heartbreaking and sad.

FIND ME focuses on retribution and revenge; secrets and lies; forgiveness and a happily ever after. The premise is romantic and intense. The characters are impassioned and emotional. The $ex scenes are erotic and seductive. The future is heartwarming and free. FIND ME is a welcome read for lovers of erotic romance storylines.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

I grabbed my cell and checked the time. It was six-twenty-nine. I threw it in my purse and turned back to the mirror to give myself a pep talk. “We will not have sex. We will not have sex. We will not have sex.”
Jesus, I was so horny already, and I hadn’t even seen him yet. I’d thought about taking care of myself before JC got there but wasn’t sure if that would make things better or worse. By the time I’d decided it would make it better, Ben was there, and now JC was ringing my buzzer.

“You look incredible,” he said when I opened the door.

I blushed as I gave him a once over. He was dressed in khakis with a fitted shirt and a lightweight jacket. Lots of buttons, I thought. Which was a good thing, considering how damn good he looked. Had he always been that buff? “You do, too.” My thighs felt hot. Good thing I’d changed out of my pants.

I really should have pulled out my vibrator earlier.

“You brought flowers?” I’d been so taken by him I hadn’t noticed the small bouquet in his hands. Three red roses dressed with some smaller white bell-shaped flowers I couldn’t identify were wrapped in a red ribbon. I hadn’t expected it. “I didn’t know you were the kind of guy who brought girls roses.”

He shrugged with one shoulder. “I’m trying to impress you. I have a feeling this date is a test of some kind, and I want to make sure I pass.”

“Not a test,” I said dismissively. Though, wasn’t that what this was? A test to see if we got along as well outside the bedroom as we did inside? “But thank you. You do impress.”

I shifted my weight to one hip and flitted my glance between JC, still standing on the other side of the threshold, and the flowers in my hand. “I should put these in water.” But I wasn’t sure I was ready to invite him in. Because in meant we’d be closer to my bed. And my couch. And my kitchen counter. All of which were locations that could be tempting.

Really, I just shouldn’t be anywhere alone with him.

Either JC felt the same way I did or he could read my mind. “You can do that later. The plastic containers on the stems should last until we get back. And we should get going.”

“Perfect.” I set them on the console table behind me, relieved and nervous all at once. I took a deep breath, grabbed my purse, and turned back to him. “Let’s go!”

In the hallway, he offered me his hand. I took it, then, there it was—the shock of his touch as his fingers weaved with mine. I let out an involuntary sigh, and with it bricks of tension fell from my body. Release. It shuddered through me as electricity sparked up my limb from where we were connected and spread throughout my body, and I wondered if this was what it felt like to melt. What it felt like to be frozen for so long and then, finally, to have the sun brush against cold ice, transforming it into something more fluid, something entirely different.

I glanced down to where we were joined, so overcome by how right it felt to be touching him in this simple way. When I looked back at him, I found his eyes pinned on me. His expression said he’d felt it too.

“You messed up, you know,” he said, as we started toward the elevator. “You were supposed to wear something that I didn’t want to rip off of you.”

My cheeks heated—actually, I wasn’t sure they’d ever cooled from the first blush he’d caused. “You said it would be impossible for me to wear anything that wouldn’t elicit that response. The only other choice was to go naked.”

“That would have been an excellent choice.”

“But not very practical.”

“I’ve never been a fan of practical.” He pushed the call button and the elevator doors opened immediately, the car likely still there from when he’d arrived.

We stepped inside, our hands still molded together. The doors closed, and I so badly wanted to turn and kiss him.

Instead I delivered the short speech I’d practiced since I’d woken up that afternoon. “I think I should tell you, I don’t have sex on first dates.”

“Wow. That’s…surprising. Considering we had sex before we’d ever even been on a date.” He squeezed my hand. “But, after you left me with blue balls this morning, I already figured out you’d turned into a prude.”

I laughed. “I’m not a prude. I’m cautious. And that’s nothing new. That’s always been me.”

“Yes, it has.” The short phrase was full of subtext, and I knew he was remembering how uptight I’d been when we’d first met. Icy. Frigid bitch.

“I’m better than I was,” I assured him.

He nodded. “I know. Otherwise you wouldn’t have given me even this much of you. And if you want to wait, then I can too.”

What I wanted was to push him against the wall and devour him.

But that was an in-the-moment want, and long-term, I wanted a relationship that was real and lasting. “Thank you. It means a lot.”

He leaned in close and, though we were alone, whispered in my ear. “I’m not going to say that I’m not dying to have you under me, Gwen. Because I am. But I’m dying to just be with you more.”

Despite the descent of the elevator, his words sent me floating. “You’re really good at that impressing thing.”

He gave me my favorite grin. “Who knew?”

free meFREE ME
(The Found Duet #1)
by Laurelin Paige
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 2014

Her story started long before she started working at The Sky Launch…

Screw fairytales. The only reward Gwen Anders got from her rough childhood was a thick skin and hard heart. She’s content with her daily grind managing a top NYC nightclub—Eighty-Eighth Floor. So hers isn’t a happily ever after. She doesn’t believe in those anyway.

Then she meets J.C.

The rich, smooth talking playboy is the sexiest thing that Gwen has ever encountered, but she’s not interested in a night-in-shining latex. But when a family tragedy pushes her to the brink, it’s J.C. who’s there to teach her a new method of survival, one based on following primal urges and desires. His no-strings-attached lessons require her to abandon her constant need for control. Her carefully built walls are obliterated.

Gwen discovers there’s a beautiful world outside her prison. Freedom is exhilarating—and terrifying. When she starts to feel something for J.C., she fears for her heart. Especially as she realizes that he has secrets of his own. Secrets that don’t want to set him free.

•••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: FREE ME is the first installment in Laurelin Paige’s adult, contemporary FOUND DUET- a spin off from her FIXED trilogy. This is nightclub manager Gwen Anders, and businessman JC’s storyline. You do not have to have read The Fixed Trilogy to follow the Found Duet.

Told from first person point of view (Gwen) FREE ME follows the building relationship between Gwen Anders and a man she knows only as JC. JC made Gwen an offer-a no strings attached sexual relationship wherein both would get what they want without the exchange of personal or private information; no history; and no emotional attachment. What ensues is a sexual relationship that will grow into a love match between two broken people whose lives are filled with heartbreak and pain.

The relationship between Gwen and JC is one of immediate attraction but Gwen’s life is a series of distant friendship because of the circumstances within her life. Her closest friend is her sister Norma, and a brother whose own life is spiraling out of control. The $ex scenes are aggressive, intimate and provocative. JC’s promise to make Gwen ‘feel’ finds our couple falling in love but not before everything in their personal lives begins to unravel.

The secondary and supporting characters include Hudson Pierce (The Fixed Trilogy) with a cameo by his significant other Alayna. We are also introduced to Gwen’s sister Norma and her brother Ben; as well as a number of nightclub employees, security personnel, and a server at the Eighty Eighth Floor Club Alyssa whose has eyes for the delectable JC.

The world building focuses on the unknown secrets; the hidden truth behind JC’s reluctance to reveal his personal information, and Gwen’s need to remain close to her family. Gwen’s back story is awash in a nightmare that will come full circle; JC’s full story is unraveling a little at a time.

Laurelin Paige pulls the reader into an emotional story about two people who meet each other at a time when their lives are going in opposite directions. The premise is intriguing and full of secrets; the romance is passionate and seductive; the cliff hanger finds Gwen wondering where everything all went wrong.

Reviewed by Sandy

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About The Author Black and White

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Laurelin PaigeUSA Today and New York Times Bestselling Author Laurelin Paige is a sucker for a good romance and gets giddy anytime there’s kissing, much to the embarrassment of her three daughters. Her husband doesn’t seem to complain, however. When she isn’t reading or writing sexy stories, she’s probably singing, watching Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead, or dreaming of Adam Levine. She is represented by Rebecca Friedman.

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Just Say Yes by Alyssa Goodnight – a Review

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Just Say Yes by Alyssa Goodnight – a Review

 

Just Say Yes

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Description:
Single mom Jade Moran isn’t ready for any big changes in either her horrible ’70s kitchen or her romantic life. Her ex did a number on her, and she isn’t interested in getting hurt again. But when she meets a super-hot contractor, she wonders if avocado appliances are on the way out and romance is on the way in.

Max Gianopoulis doesn’t have a clue why he’s so enchanted by Jade. She’s almost as big a mess as her kitchen, and he’s a guy who likes to keep things simple. But Jade has turned up the flirty heat – and he can’t keep his hands off her.

With everything moving too fast and coming too easy, Jade’s insecurities kick into high gear. She’s not sure she can trust another man again – and she definitely doesn’t believe in happily ever afters.

Review:

Though I’m a big fan of HEA, I’m not usually partial to young children playing matchmaker for their single parent. Unless it’s lovingly, charmingly told…with a touch of magic. That’s a book that shines. That’s a book I recommend. Oh, yeah, something exactly like Just Say Yes by Alyssa Goodnight!

“Project Jade Moran Needs a Man” is in full effect, though she’s in no hurry (it’s only been 13 years). When a well meaning, though veritable stranger and owner of a new restaurant that caters to the more exotic palate, plants a fortuitous seed of need, a new kitchen, Jade might be able to kill two birds with one stone. Who would complain when Max, the contractor, was depicted as having all the best parts of Neal Caffrey and Harvey Spector (swoooooon and high-five to that combo!) Jade, ever the skeptic and pragmatic, can’t help but contemplate the fantasy, however cliché. If nothing else, she’d get a new kitchen out of it – she barely steps foot into her own!  

Max is startled by his inclination to pursue Jade. He didn’t fare so well following his one and only contractor-client tryst, but his instincts are urging him forward nevertheless. He’s been a goner since discovering Jade donned (and owns) a Wonder Woman costume, lol. An image like that is imprinted upon his superhero heart. But still…there’s an impressionable teenager daughter to consider. Max is not the kind of man to ignore those ramifications, to let Jade deal with the emotional fallout should things turn south.

So it’s cat and mouse, but Ms. Goodnight switches roles admirably. Each is given the ability to flirt and take the role of aggressor. It’s when the other nibbles at the bait that we find our H/H scrambling in full retrieval, properly self-chastised for such daring. Lots of fun! And it’s a real delight to see Jade’s daughter prompt, strategize, with Max to win over her too nervous mother. But when that kiss comes to fruition…

Max lifted his lips from hers and moved between her and the door. She tried to find her balance, tried to get the tingling under control. She had the prickly sensation that her whole body had fallen asleep long ago and had just now been woken up.

It was a slow seduction, but WELL worth the wait. Now, will Jade and Max allow room for expansion or does their relationship end at a single room remodel project? They’re sooo good together, all of them. Max’s grandmother and sister are warm and generous secondary characters. There was an instant connection within the family. Falling in love was not what either of them expected, resisted even, but leaving a recommendation, however sterling, on Angie’s List is too professional.  

“The worst of imagining things is that the time comes when you have to stop, and that hurts.”

Oh, what a sweet, sexy love story! Ms. Goodnight imparts the beauty of learning how to share and trust for the sake of true love. Saying yes isn’t easy, but when you just say it: Magic happens! I believe!!!

P.S. Not only were there awesome superhero references, a way to my heart, but Evie, Jade’s tenacious teenage daughter, wore a Team Edward tee one night. Super smart girl!!! ;D

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher

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On the Hunt Anthology by Alexandra Ivy, Rebecca Zanetti, Dianne Duvall and Hannah Jayne-a review

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ON THE HUNT anthology by Alexandra Ivy, Rebecca Zanetti, Dianne Duval, and Hannah Jayne- a review

On The Hunt

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2015

I have a difficult time reviewing anthologies especially if some of the novellas or short stories offered are from series I have not previously read. So why, you ask, do I read and review anthologies? Well, the easy answer is that many novellas included in the anthologies are part of existing series that I read and enjoy, or are introductory storylines to new authors and series. The problem surfaces when some of the entries are from series that I have not read and therefore I feel I am out of my element because of missing information-the cohesiveness and familiarity with the characters or backstory is absent and I don’t or can’t feel a connection to the story. Saying that, ON THE HUNT is an anthology with four paranormal storylines: three from existing series and one from Rebecca Zanetti’s new Scorpius Syndrome. Each of the author’s style of writing differs in ‘feel’ and ‘emotion’; two of the novellas look at a second chance romance while one offers up the possibility for love in the afterlife.

______________

ON THE HUNT by Alexandra Ivy
Mika Tanner has loved Bailey Morrell, a beautiful Healer, since childhood. But his duty as a Sentinel, a supernatural guardian of an ancient race, clashed with her rebellious spirit. Now a dangerous new anarchist group not only threatens life as they know it—but any chance of their being together again…

REVIEW: ON THE HUNT is the latest entry into Alexandra Ivy’s paranormal romance THE SENTINEL series focusing on a rare supernatural species known as high bloods –blessed (and cursed) with powers and magical abilities. To protect the high bloods from themselves and discrimination from the outside world, the ‘freaks’ and ‘mutations’ are secluded in the domed city of Valhalla organized with a social infrastructure and hierarchy of Sentinels. This is Sentinel Hunter Mika Tanner and Healer Bailey Morrell’s second chance storyline.

Told from third person point of view the focus of the story is the hunt for Jacob Benson-a runaway acolyte whose mysterious disappearance will find Mika and Bailey reconnecting with one another after a ten year separation, giving the couple a second chance at happiness and love. While Mika searches for Jacob, Bailey will become the target of a cult-like group determined to eradicate the supernatural powers.

ON THE HUNT is a story of conflict: Bailey and her need to run from Mika; and a new enemy bent on destroying anyone considered a ‘freak’ and ‘mutation’. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the characters are animated and confident; the romance is a reconnection between two lost souls. If you are a fan of THE SENTINEL series by Alexandra Ivy-you don’t want to miss out on this installment.

••••••••••

SCORPIUS RISING by Rebecca Zanetti
While searching for a meteorite, Nora Mendina is arrested by her sheriff ex-husband—who’s only gotten hotter than the Nevada desert since she last saw him. When the meteorite breaks open, the few survivors gain extraordinary powers, unleashing a crazed super genius killer. Can Nora and her ex stop the murders…while igniting a new love affair?

REVIEW: SCORPIUS RISING is the first installment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult The Scorpius Syndrome cross genre (sci-fi/UF/Dystopian) romance series focusing on a biological pandemic that is about to sweep the world. This is Agent and Presidential advisor Deacon McDougall, and microbiologist Dr. Nora Medina’s second chance story that introduces the background information and the resulting fall out from exposure to an unknown bacteria- from space.

Told from third person point of view SCORPIUS RISING reveals the transmission process, resulting side effects, and potential future ramifications of a bacteria that could very well be the next big thing in biological warfare. Deacon McDougall goes on the hunt for the woman he left behind eight years before, in the hopes his ex-wife has the capability of finding a way to stop the virulent strain of bacteria now known as the Scorpius.

SCORPIUS RISING looks at the possibility of a catastrophic disaster if an unknown biological organism makes its’ way to Earth, and the resulting death toll in a very short time. The premise is both startling and sensational; the characters are intense; the romance is provocative, highly sexual, and hot. My only complaint is what I consider the ‘over the top’ after affects showing in some of the Scorpius victims. SCORPIUS RISING is a great start to a new series!!

•••••••••••••••

PHANTOM EMBRACE by Dianne Duvall
Immortal Yuri Sokolov was born with the ability to see spirits, yet he’s never seen one as lovely as Cat Seddon, the woman who haunts his home and his dreams. But amid their star-crossed love, a new danger may have Yuri facing a different kind of eternity.

REVIEW: PHANTOM EMBRACE is book 5.5 in Diane Duvall’s adult Immortal Guardians paranormal, romance series. This is immortal Guardian Yuri Sokolov and Cat Seddon’s storyline. Yuri has the power to see spirits, and Cat is a ghost who haunts Yuri’s nights and dreams.

Told from third person point of view PHANTOM EMBRACE focuses on the continuing hunt for the evil vampires but a new threat finds the Guardians and Yuri facing a different kind of immortality-one that seems to please Yuri more than it should. PHANTOM EMBRACE also follows the building of an improbable relationship between Yuri and Cat. While Cat remains in spirit form Yuri is unable to touch the woman with whom he is falling in love.

Dianne Duvall is a gifted writer who allows for the probability that not everyone is aware of the series history thusly imparting important backstory and series information wherever possible allowing for cohesion and familiarity. For readers new to the series, there is no confusion; the storyline flows smoothly with great characters, friendly camaraderie, and seductive romance. Great storyline that packs a punch.

••••••••••••••

STAKE OUT by Hannah Jayne
Vampire fashion designer Nina LaShay has a lot on her plate—just two days until fashion week and the model who was flirting with her photographer boyfriend is now a corpse in her studio. But when dead turns into undead and dangerous, Nina must find out who’s responsible…before the beautiful baby vamp takes too many bites out of the Big Apple.

REVIEW: STAKE OUT is number 6.5 in Hannah Jayne’s UNDERWORLD DETECTIVE AGENCY paranormal series. This is fashion designer/vampire Nina LaShay’s storyline.

Told from third person point of view STAKE OUT follows a series of gruesome killings-ones that Nina believes have been perpetrated by a new born vampire- a Halfling with the need to feed-and a woman who was previously under Nina’s employ. Preparing for fashion week finds Nina struggling to uncover the person responsible for the death of many of Nina’s models, and the arrival of a new fashion competitor on the runway.

I am not familiar with this particular series therefore if any of the characters have recurring roles throughout the series, of this, I am not aware. Nina’s nephew Vlad is quite the ‘elegant’ vampire- a throwback to the original era of vampire dress, while Pike (a bird shifter) has taken ahold of Nina’s heart. STAKE OUT is a cute story with some humorous moments, action, suspense, and graphic violence but no sexual scenarios. The romance is limited byway of a stolen kiss and a profession of attraction.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wildest Dreams (Thunder Point #9) by Robyn Carr-a review

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WILDEST DREAMS (Thunder Point #9) by Robyn Carr-a review

Wildest Dreams

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2015

Blake Smiley searched the country for just the right place to call home. The professional triathlete has traveled the world, but Thunder Point has what he needs to put down the roots he’s never had. In the quiet coastal town he can focus on his training without distractions. Until he meets his new neighbors and everything changes.

Lin Su Simmons and her teenage son, Charlie, are fixtures at Winnie Banks’ house as Lin Su nurses Winnie through the realities of ALS. A single mother, Lin Su is proud of taking charge and never showing weakness. But she has her hands full coping with a job, debt and Charlie’s health issues. And Charlie is asking questions about his family history—questions she doesn’t want to answer.

When Charlie enlists Blake’s help to escape his overprotective mother, Lin Su resents the interference in her life. But Blake is certain he can break through her barriers and be the man she and Charlie need. When faced with a terrible situation, Blake comes to the rescue, and Lin Su realizes he just might be the man of her dreams. Together, they recognize that family is who you choose it to be.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: WILDEST DREAMS is the ninth installment in Robyn Carr’s contemporary, adult Thunder Point romance series focusing on the people in and around Thunder Point. This is triathlete Blake Smiley, and single mother/home care nurse Lin Su Simmons’s storyline. WILDEST DREAMS can be read as a standalone; any important information from previous storylines is revealed where necessary.

Told from third person point of view WILDEST DREAMS is an ensemble storyline that focuses on Lin Su Simmons and her relationship with the people of Thunder Point-and more specifically Winnie, Grace and Winnie’s new neighbor Blake Smiley. Lin Su is Winnie’s nurse; a health care worker who tends to Winnie’s needs as her symptoms of ALS begins to worsen. With the arrival of Winnie’s new neighbor-triathlete Blake Smiley-Lin Su’s son Charlie begins a complicated friendship with the newest resident of Thunder Point. As Charlie’s friendship with Blake deepens, Lin Su finds herself oddly attracted to the first man in her life in close to fourteen years.

Lin Su is an over protective single mother whose only child has some issues with asthma and breathing difficulties. As Charlie begins to assert his independence as any fourteen year old wants to assert, Lin Su is reluctant to give up control of her son to anyone including Blake Smiley who assigns himself Charlie’s mentor and trainer. Lin Su, like many heroines, has a past clouded in betrayal and heartbreak, and with it comes the inability to trust or open her heart to new possibilities. Lin Su’s acerbic and vitriol attitude towards Blake was off putting and a big negative to my overall enjoyment of this storyline.

The relationship, and thusly the storyline, was very, very slow to develop. Blake’s attraction to Lin Su is immediate but our heroine is less than receptive to Blake’s smile and charms. As a character, Blake felt more like a secondary or supporting character rather than the storyline hero as the majority of the focus was on Lin Su’s relationship with Charlie, Winnie and the people of Thunder Point. The limited love scene is mostly implied.

WILDEST DREAMS is an ensemble storyline that also looks at several continuing stories from previous installments; there are three impending births, and Winnie’s health continues to deteriorate over time. If you are a fan of the Thunder Point series you will enjoy revisiting the cast of characters; if you are new to the series, there may be some confusion as to the ‘relationships’ and connections but Robyn reveals some of the background and history of these other characters.

I did have some issues with this particular storyline. The ending felt a little rushed in comparison to the rest of the book; there was a big reveal and a promise for the future that basically leaves the reader hanging wondering what will happen next. The conflict between Lin Su, Blake and Charlie, once again, revealed a caustic side to the storyline heroine that was troublesome and problematic. The ‘physical descriptions’ of Blake and Lin Su were limited; the character development was interesting but I need a starting point from which to ‘imagine’ my storyline characters. I had a difficult time picturing Blake from the start.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Blood Sky (The After Series #4) by Traci L.Slatton-a review

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BLOOD SKY (After Series #4) by Traci L. Slatton-a review

Blood Sky

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 24, 2015

In a time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test… Deep in the badlands of Outpost City, in the Dark Horse saloon, a poker game is being played. The stakes are life and death—for the world.

What can Emma afford to lose? Will she gamble on herself, or on Arthur?

Will love find a way when the apocalypse closes in? A mystical odyssey, a haunting love…

••••••••••

REVIEW: BLOOD SKY is the fourth installment in Traci L. Slatton’s AFTER series set in the post-apocalyptic, dystopian future that focuses on the ‘After’ following ‘The Day’ when the lethal mists began to ravage the world’s population, land and structures. In the After, many of the survivors have developed psychic powers and special abilities that will play an integral role in the survival of the world. But there are others whose minds have been destroyed by the mists; slowly succumbing to madness and insanity. BLOOD SKY is the continuing story of Emma and Arthur’s relationship, and the lengths to which our heroine will go to stop the mists, and the man that she loves –once and for all.

Told from first person point of view (Emma) BLOOD SKY finds our weary band of psychic misfits traveling across country in the hopes of staying one step ahead of the deadly mists and the marauding bands of murderous raiders. Arthur’s ability to control the mists has come under fire when our ‘anti-hero’ begins to show signs that all is not right with his ideology revealing a troubling scenario that will place everyone at risk-now and in the future.

Emma and Arthur’s relationship is struggling; there are moments of love, passion and sexual seduction followed by the insanity of power and control. Arthur’s inability to understand the potential for disaster unleashes a flurry of concern when some of the travelers decide to go it alone in the hopes of finding passage and freedom –an ocean away. What ensues is the loss of someone close, and the realization that not all will go according to plan. Arthur’s continuous pursuit of Emma finds our couple at odds in the wake of Arthur’s plans for the future.

BLOOD SKY reveals the desperate situations that people will go to in a world destroyed by an apocalyptic nightmare. Like the Wild West of the American south, the After series focuses on survival against the odds-where one misstep could be your last; where control of the masses is but a thought away.

The AFTER series looks at the fall out of an experiment that went horribly wrong. Billions of people have lost their lives but the ensuing destruction of property and land has left a world of nothingness pocketed by small, untouched towns where no one survived.

Traci L. Slatton exceptional skill at storytelling is matched by the brilliant premise and controversial ideology of a tale that warns of a potential future if mankind were driven to the brink of another war. The characters are engaging, colorful, charismatic and intense; the romance is tormented and angry; the happily ever after but a pock mark on the horizon above the wastelands of a future that has yet to be told.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

FallenFALLEN
After Series #1
by Traci L. Slatton
Genre: adult, dystopian, romance
Release: July 2011

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of FALLEN

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

When the world ends, all that is left is love…

As chaos descends on a crippled Earth, survivors are tormented by strange psychic gifts. In this time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test. One woman with mysterious healing power guides eight children to safety. Charismatic Arthur offers her a haven. Slowly Emma falls for him. But at the moment of their sweetest love, his devastating secret is revealed, and they are lost to each other. The award-winning first book in the acclaimed After Series.

________________

Cold LightCOLD LIGHT
After Series #2
by Traci L. Slatton
Genre: adult, dystopian, romance
Release Date: July 1, 2012

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of COLD LIGHT

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

The end of the world brings chaos, madness, and psychic powers. For Emma and Arthur, separated by an ocean, it brings a love that demands everything. Emma’s beloved daughter is kidnapped by vengeful raiders, and Emma embarks on a soul-crushing journey to rescue her. When Arthur finds Emma, can she trust him? Against impossible odds, Emma draws near the rogue camp, where she also confronts the deepest choice of her heart..

_________________

Far ShoreFAR SHORE
After Series #3
by Traci L. Slatton
Genre: adult, dystopian, romance
Release Date:October 10, 2013

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of FAR SHORE

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

FAR SHORE (After Series #3) by Traci L. Slatton

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 10, 2013

An old enemy wreaks new havoc at the end of the world…

After the mists’ lethal apocalypse, mankind’s only hope for survival lies broken and battered, the prisoner of a ruthless sociopath who will stop at nothing to hurt him. Emma sets out to rescue him. She faces an ultimatum and must relinquish everything she holds dear. As Arthur teeters on the brink of life and death, Emma’s healing ability fails. Her own despair tests her, and she must grow stronger than she ever dreamt possible as she confronts the truth of her own heart.

In a time of apocalyptic despair, love is put to the test…

A mystical odyssey, a haunting love…

About The Author Black and Red

Traci L. SlattonTraci L. Slatton, author of FALLEN and COLD LIGHT, is a graduate of Yale and Columbia. She lives in Manhattan, and her love for Renaissance Italy inspired her historical novel IMMORTAL and her contemporary vampire art history mystery THE BOTTICELLI AFFAIR. FALLEN is the first in a romantic series set during the end times; COLD LIGHT and FAR SHORE further the dystopian tale. DANCING IN THE TABERNACLE is her first book of poetry. She also wrote a sculpture book, THE ART OF LIFE, with her husband. THE LOVE OF MY (OTHER) LIFE is a bittersweet rom-com that addresses the question: What worlds would you move to be with your soulmate?

Follow: Website / Goodreads / Facebook

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Tough Love (Ultimate #3) by Lori Foster-a review

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TOUGH LOVE (Ultimate #3) by Lori Foster-a review

Tough Love

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2015

Vanity Baker loves a good, clean match, but she’s not above playing a little dirty. She’s wanted Stack “The Wolf” Hannigan from day one. Seems as though the best way to corral the famously commitment-phobic fighter is to insist on keeping it casual. And her plan works—deliciously well—until Stack’s past steps out of the shadows.

Stack learned early to stay free of attachments. But with sexy, forthright Vanity, he’s the one always left wanting more. Then his troublemaking family comes back into the picture, threatening everything Stack cares about—Vanity included. Suddenly he realizes they’re much more than friends with benefits. He’s ready to go to the mat for her…but will it be in time to protect the woman who’s tamed him for good?

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TOUGH LOVE is the third installment in Lori Foster’s adult, contemporary MMA Ultimate erotic romance series. This is model/artist Vanity Baker, and MMA fighter Stack “The Wolf” Hannigan’s storyline. TOUGH LOVE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous storylines is imparted where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives TOUGH LOVE follows the building relationship between Vanity and Stack. Vanity invited Stack to be her plus one for Cannon and Yvette’s (No Limits #1) wedding with the promise of something more at the end of the night. What ensues is a series of interruptions including a car accident involving a drunk driver; the introduction of Vanity to Stack’s mother and long suffering sister; and several assaults and attempted robberies disguised as a means to distract Stack from the woman who calls to his heart.

Like many of the series’ heroines Vanity is a rabid fan of the MMA and one man in particular- Stack Hannigan. For months Vanity’s attempts to flirt and seduce Stack have gone unnoticed or ignored until a promise of one night of $ex if Stack accompanies Vanity to their friend’s nuptial’s. Unbeknownst to Vanity, Stack has been attracted to our storyline heroine for as long as he can remember but when his past comes back hoping to reconnect, Vanity’s safety will be his number one concern. The relationship between Stack and Vanity begins as friends to an arrangement for a potential friends with benefits option but quickly escalates into something more. The $ex scenes are provocative and hot.

TOUGH LOVE also looks at dysfunctional family values; love, betrayal, heartbreak and distrust. Stack’s sister has found her herself in a difficult situation with a husband whose own life is spiraling out of control; and his mother has a difficult time saying no to her only daughter. Years before, Vanity’s family were all lost in a horrific accident; our heroine is the sole heir and with it came financial freedom and the ability to financially help whoever she can. But Vanity isn’t one to sit back and enjoy the money; she works three jobs to keep herself busy-never once asking anyone for assistance or help. It is Vanity’s attempts to help Stack’s extended family that find our heroine in deeper trouble than she could have imagined. Vanity tends to be a little naïve when it comes to trust and money; she has a habit of revealing too much information at the wrong place and the wrong time.

Lori Foster’s ULTIMATE MMA series has a large ensemble cast of characters. All of the previous storyline couples and characters play a secondary and supporting role throughout the story. The mysterious and reclusive MMA fighter Armie Jacboson may or may not have feelings for Cannon’s younger sister Merissa; and Vanity’s best friend and personal guardian Leese-another MMA fighter who has yet to come into his prime- knows that Vanity is off limits when Stack stakes a claim in front of their friends and fellow fighters.

The world building continues to focus on the fighters of the MMA and the women whom they love. The fighting is secondary to the storyline premise; in fact, there are no professional fight sequences or bouts anywhere within the TOUGH LOVE storyline-we do get a glimpse into a self defense class aimed at keeping everyone safe. All of Lori’s heroes are alpha male; dominant and over protective. Staking a claim is part of their DNA and personality.

My only concern was the ‘conflict’ and ‘tension’ woven into the storyline, and throughout Vanity and Stack’s relationship. There were so many threats from different directions that I couldn’t help but wonder if the author had a difficult time with the ‘who and why’. In the end, everything was a blur yet I felt nothing was completely resolved.

TOUGH LOVE is an entertaining storyline. There are moments of heartbreak and betrayal; tenderness and devotion; falling in love and letting go. The premise had a little bit of mystery and suspense; the characters are colorful and spirited; the romance is impassioned and intense. TOUGH LOVE sees another MMA fighter finding love with the woman who stole his heart.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

_________

Back To BuckhornBACK TO BUCKHORN
(Buckhorn Brothers #7)
by Lori Foster
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Original Release Date: June 2, 2014

For odd-girl-out Zoey Hodge, the best thing about Buckhorn, Kentucky, was leaving it behind. And now she’s back—at least until she can nurse her mother back to health and hightail it out of there anew. But there’s one person she doesn’t mind seeing again. Garrett Hudson was one of the few who was always kind to her. Now he’s a firefighter—still one of the good guys, but with a sexy alpha charm that’s tempting her inner bad girl.

In school, Zoey was smart, witty and unafraid to be herself. Garrett fell hard back then, and he’s falling even faster now. As far as he’s concerned, there are all kinds of reasons Zoey should stick around. Her pet grooming business. Her mom. And the chance for him to prove that he can be her real-life hero in every way that matters.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BACK TO BUCKHORN is a bonus novella included at the back of TOUGH LOVE originally released in June 2014 as part of Lori Foster’s BUCKHORN BROTHERS series. BACK TO BUCKHORN looks at the second generation of family-Garrett Hudson and Zoey Hodge. Garret is the son of Morgan Hudson (Buckhorn Brothers #2).

Zoey’s return, after a seven year absence, brings back too many memories for a number of people in the small town of Buckhorn and with it the potential for retribution and revenge. But Garrett is all about protecting Zoey Hodge-the woman he can’t stop thinking about since her return.

BACK TO BUCKHORN is a quick read; a friends to lovers storyline that ends with a commitment towards the future and a happily ever after. Morgan Hudson makes a cameo appearance –no longer the sheriff but the town’s popular mayor; and Garret’s sister Amber goes all mother bear in order to protect her friend Zoey Hodge.

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