Driven (Otherworld Series 13.6) by Kelley Armstrong-a review

DRIVEN (Otherworld Series 13.6) by Kelley Armstrong-a review

Driven

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Hard Cover Release Date January 31, 2016

Cains are known for being big, brutish and not-too-bright. The mutt clan embodies all the supernatural world’s worst stereotypes about werewolves. But not even the Cains deserve to be hunted down and skinned like animals.

When young Davis Cain comes to the Pack for help, Alpha Elena Michaels can’t refuse him. It isn’t about morality or justice. It’s about not letting anyone think they can do this to werewolves and get away with it.

But Elena is also dealing with the Pack’s homegrown monster—Malcolm Danvers, onetime enforcer, full-time psycho. Malcolm is now under Elena’s control, as part of the most difficult decision she’s had to make as leader. But if she has to let Malcolm in, she’s going to make full use of him…and the best person to catch monsters is one who knows exactly how they think.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: DRIVEN is the latest installment (and longer novella) in Kelley Armstrong’s paranormal OTHERWORLD series focusing on the Stonehaven Wolf Pack of New York. For followers of the series Kelley brings together the baddest of the bad-Malcolm Danvers- as the newest and most unwelcome member of Elena’s Pack. Malcolm has been in hiding on the other side of the world, and the psychotic killer wants to rejoin the Pack.

Told from Elena’s first person point of view, DRIVEN focuses on the ritualistic and very personal murders of the Cain family-another familiar name to fans of the series. This time, the Cains are targeted by an unknown source, as their numbers begin to deteriorate very rapidly, and Elena and Clay are called in to investigate. Malcolm will be offered his first official duty with the New York Pack as more bodies begin to pile up. What ensues is the hunt for the people (and wolf) responsible for terrorizing the Cain family, and the reasons for the sadistic killings. Be forewarned, there are numerous graphic scenes focusing on the aftermath of the killings.

DRIVEN reveals the growth and development of some of our favorite wolves. Love, maturity, family and children have altered Clay’s view of the world including his tolerance for Malcolm’s return but that is not to say the Malcolm can ever be trusted. Clay is now the Pack enforcer, and he doesn’t take any crap from the aging wolf. Malcolm, on the other hand, is an old wolf set in his ways, and has a difficult time adjusting to a new leadership, and the Pack’s new way of handling the mutts.

A number of our favorite wolves are front and center including Elena, Clay, Jeremy and Nick as well as Reese and Noah, and Reese’s friend Madison (the daughter of another wolf). Elena and Clay’s children-nine year old Kate and Logan-let Malcolm know they aren’t afraid of the man who has terrorized the Pack. Again, for fans of the series, if you have read most of the recent novellas, we were previously introduced to a half –demon name Vanessa-Nick’s current girlfriend- and the woman he is hoping to claim as his mate. Karl, Hope, Jamie, Antonio and Paige are present byway of mention-only.

DRIVEN is a suspenseful, disturbing and welcome addition to Kelley Armstrong’s OTHERWORD SERIES. The characters are familiar, impassioned and sometimes controversial. With the return of Malcolm in THIRTEEN confusion reigned and Kelley could not let this particular return go without some sort of response. DRIVEN reveals Malcolm’s intent and the reasons for his return to the Pack; I somehow think he may get what he wants.

Kelley has released a number of novellas, short stories and anthologies since the ‘final’ Otherworld installment of THIRTEEN, focusing on the Wolf Pack, and with it comes numerous looks at Elena and the Wolves. If fans have not kept up with the smaller releases, there is quite a bit of story line and history missing-the smaller stories are revealing plenty of information and growth for the Pack-new members, growing families, potential happily ever afters.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Dark Room (Society X #1) by Heidi McLaughlin & L.P.Dover-Review

DARK ROOM (Society X #1) by Heidi McLaughlin and L.P.Dover-Review and Book Tour

 

DARK ROOM
Society X #1
by Heidi McLaughlin & LP Dover
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date January 26, 2016

 

Amazon.com / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK:

RELEASE DATE : January 26, 2016

The rules of Society X are simple . . . break them and you’re out.

Rule #1 – No names
It doesn’t matter if you want to know, it’s forbidden.

Rule #2 – No exchanging numbers
It doesn’t matter if you want to call, it’s forbidden.

Rule #3 – Everything is to remain strictly anonymous
It doesn’t matter if you want to tell, it’s forbidden.

The Dark Room is the only place you can live out your fantasies and no one will ever know it’s you.

For Parker, what started out as a business transaction has turned into an addiction.

For Mia, it’s been a chance to discover who she truly is.

What happens in the dark will have you begging for more .

•••••••••••

REVIEW: DARK ROOM is the first installment in the adult, contemporary SOCIETY X erotic, romance series co-written by Heidi McLaughlin and L.P.Dover.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Parker and Mia) DARK ROOM follows two converging paths that focuses on the friends to lovers/forbidden relationship between fashion designer/ fitness instructor Mia Hudson, and billionaire businessman Parker Ward; and their elite memberships at Society X-an exclusive adult entertainment and sex club. What ensues is the push and pull of a forbidden relationship when Parker hires Mia for his new fashion endeavor; and the rendezvous at Society X where nobody knows your name; and the Dark Room holds secrets that can never be revealed.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Mia’s brother and Parker’s best friend Drew Hudson; Society X Club owner Bryce Adams, and Mia’s ex boyfriend Zac. We are also introduced Mia’s besties Rachel and Stacey-Rachel gives Mia the push to experience everything that Society X has to offer.

The world building focuses on Society X-the back rooms, the sex rooms and the Dark Room where couples explore one another without the benefit of sight or sound.

The relationship between Parker and Mia is one of friends to lovers-a fated explosion of mystery, touch and scent-where the desire of the unknown is as strong as for the forbidden fruit. Mia and Parker have loved one another for a number of years, but neither one made an effort to cross over to the other side. The sexual tension is high; their chemistry together is off the charts; the push and pull of attraction, want and need is obvious to everyone but the couple involved. The DARK ROOM at Society X is a turning point in Mia and Parker’s relationship-if only they knew who it was that called to their hearts and minds. The $ex scenes are erotic, seductive, provocative and intense-there is something to be said about using your other senses in the bedroom.

DARK ROOM is a seductive story line; an erotic dance in the dark between two people who have loved one another from afar but have been too afraid to take the first step. The Dark Room at Society X proves that the heart and body knows before the mind’s eye is aware. The premise is arousing and moving; the characters are animated and enthralling; the romance is imaginative and passionate.

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

excerpt

 

 

“What’s the dark room?” I ask, trying not to sound intrigued. Although, deep down, a small part of me is jealous.
Before she can answer, Stacey hollers her name. “We’ll talk later,” she explains quickly, before rushing to her sister’s side.
“Do you think we should go out into the club so the escorts see us?” Rachel asks, craning her head to see through the entryway.
“Are you serious? You actually want to be a part of this?”
Her eyes go wide. “Hell yeah. I’m not ready to settle down and have kids. I want to live life while I’m still young. Once you get married, you’re stuck with the same dick for the rest of your life. Talk about boring.”
She wouldn’t say that if she found someone she was in love with. Taking a look around the room, there was a lot going on out in the club. “Okay, fine. Come on, Rach, let’s take a look around. If we’re not allowed to, we can say we’re going to the bathroom.”
Shrieking in excitement, she jumps to her feet. “Thank you, thank you! Let’s go.”
We wave at the other ladies in our party and head into the club. On the other side of the door, the music is playing and the dancers on stage are pumping along with it. They give everyone sneak peeks of their junk and I can’t help but catch my breath.
“I wonder if the owner has to see everyone’s giblets before they get hired. I’ve never seen so many huge cocks in one place at one time,” I murmur in her ear.
“I know, right? It’s heaven. Why can’t I find a guy who’s gifted like that?”
“Join the club and I’m sure you can have all you want.”
Her eyes widen. “Do you think we have a chance? We’re both sexy as hell. And you’re a trainer for Christ’s sake. You look better than me.”
“You’re more outgoing than I am.”
She shrugs. “So? As long as you have what they want, I don’t think it’ll matter.” We walk around the club and every so often I see some of the escorts studying individual people. However, I never see any of them looking at me.
Meredith catches up to us and grabs our shoulders. “Girls, the night’s almost over. I think Stacey’s worn a hole in her panties from all the grinding.”
We all laugh and follow her back to the VIP room. Stacey’s leaning on her elbow, about to fall asleep. “Thank goodness her wedding isn’t tomorrow.” I giggle.
“She has three more weeks to back out if she wants to.” Stacey hears Meredith and flips her off. “Just kidding, sis.” She turns to us and smiles. “She hates it when I say that. Are you two staying a little longer? Stacey is riding back with Alex.”
“I’d like to.” Rachel pouts her lips and turns to me. “Just a few more minutes?”
“Fine,” I grumble. Saying our goodbyes to Stacey, some of the other girls help her out of the room. Once they’re gone, Meredith joins Rachel and me back in the VIP room. It’s just us, which is perfect because we have full view of the stage.
“So, tell us about this dark room,” Rachel prods.
Smiling wide, she leans forward but then stops when her gaze meets something at the door. “I think you’re about to find out for yourselves.”
“Good evening, ladies,” a voice calls out. Rachel gasps and my heart thunders out of control. It couldn’t be true, could it? Turning, I focus my attention on the tall, dark and handsome escort. He smirks and nods toward the door. “I was wondering if you ladies would be interested in exploring all of the possibilities the club has to offer.”
“Yes,” Meredith answers before we can. “They would love to.”
He winks at her and laughs. “It’s good to see you again, Ms. Chambers. Do you want to come with them?”
“Of course.”
She and Rachel get up and follow him out the door, leaving me to stew in my seat. “Mia, come on!” Rachel demands when she notices I’m not following them.
“I don’t know if this is such a good idea.”
Sighing, she walks up to me and takes my hand. “You can do this. Don’t you owe it to yourself to live your life? When you’re old and gray, you can look back and say, ‘I did this and I wasn’t afraid.’”
“I don’t think fucking strangers is an accomplishment.”
She shakes her head. “No, but living out your true fantasies is. Not many people get the chance to do that. Now let’s go!”
Taking a deep breath, I follow them down a side hallway to a closed door. The escort types in a code and it opens up to another hallway. Once the door shuts, he turns to face us. “You two have been selected to be a part of Society X’s elite. I’ll tell you more about it, but first, is this something you think you’re interested in? If not, I’ll be happy to escort you back to the main room.” He stares at me, but I stand firm and nod once. “Good, let’s get started.”
We walk down the hall to another room, where he picks up a couple of documents and hands them to us. “These are your applications. Fill them out, and later on in the week we’ll let you know if you passed all the requirements. More information will be given to you then, but for now, just know that we’ll take care of your needs—meet your every desire.”
“So you can get a horse in here?” I giggle, my nerves getting the best of me.
Meredith snorts, but the guy stares at me and doesn’t laugh. He must think I’m serious. Great. Rachel’s eyes about fall out of her face and she smacks me in the arm. “Mia! Knock it off, would you?” She turns to our escort. “Please continue, and do your best to ignore my friend.”
He nods and takes us on a tour, showing us the viewing room, the bondage room, and lastly, the dark room. “In the dark room, your partner will not be able to see you. You’ll rely on your other four senses to guide you. This room is purely confidential and anonymous, since you won’t be able to talk with or see your partner. But rest assured, all of our clients are top notch. We’re very particular about who we pick.”
“So basically, you’re saying you’re not going to invite smelly-ass men with beer guts?” I ask. Rachel snickers and Meredith tries to hide her smile.
He shakes his head. “No. The only reason we would find someone of that stature is if a client requested it, but so far that hasn’t been the case.” I didn’t think so. “Does any of this sound appealing to you?” he asks.
Rachel and Meredith both stare at me with hopeful eyes. Sighing in defeat, I hold out my hand. “I’m going to need a pen.”

 

About The Author

Heidi McLaughlin: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Heidi McLaughlinHeidi is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell, Buttercup, two Parakeets, Gonzo & Hedwig, and their newest addition of a Highland West/Mini Schnauzer, Jill.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she’s writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter’s basketball games.

––––––––––––––

L.P. Dover: Website/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Google+

L.P.DoverNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, L.P. Dover, is a southern belle residing in North Carolina along with her husband and two beautiful girls. Before she even began her literary journey she worked in Periodontics enjoying the wonderment of dental surgeries.

Not only does she love to write, but she loves to play tennis, go on mountain hikes, white water rafting, and you can’t forget the passion for singing. Her two number one fans expect a concert each and every night before bedtime and those songs usually consist of Christmas carols.

Aside from being a wife and mother, L.P. Dover has written countless novels including her Forever Fae series, the Second Chances series, the Gloves Off series, the Armed & Dangerous series, the Royal Shifters series, and her standalone novel, Love, Lies, and Deception. Her favorite genre to read is romantic suspense and she also loves writing it. However, if she had to choose a setting to live in it would have to be with her faeries in the Land of the Fae.

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UnderCovers by Kayti McGee-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

UNDERCOVERS by Kayti McGee-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

Under Covers Banner

UNDERCOVERS
by Kayti McGee
Release Date: January 18, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance,

Under Covers

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 18, 2016

Halfway through her first year on the job, Melissa Montclair decides the best part of teaching is winter break.

And the best part of break is the Perfect Ten she meets in a bar on New Year’s Eve. Why not celebrate a semester under her belt with a Perfect Ten in her pants? The one night affair is all she hoped for, until she walks into school a week later and sees Mr. Ten is Student Twenty-nine on her roll call.

She should be mortified—and she is—but that doesn’t stop her from banging him again. And again.

And again.

So much for job security.

Posing as an exchange student at Hamilton High is finally the assignment Officer Spence Vega has been hoping for. Now he has a shot at getting to the bottom of the town’s recent molly epidemic. There’s only a couple of problems: first, history is taught by the curvy bombshell he banged on New Year’s. Second, his growing suspicion is that she’s the dealer he’s looking for.

The job was supposed to be an easy in-and-out, not the teacher.

If only they could stop getting under the covers, staying undercover would be so much easier.

••••••••

REVIEW: UNDER COVERS by Kayti McGee is a contemporary, adult, erotic romance stand alone story focusing on undercover cop Spencer Vega, and high school history teach Melissa Montclair.

Told from dual first person points of view (Melissa and Spence) UNDER COVERS follows high school teacher Melissa Montclair from a wild New Year’s Eve to her first day back in class where her ‘one-night stand’ is her new high school student in senior history. What ensues is a forbidden relationship between student and teacher-but a student who is actually a twenty six year old under cover cop. While Spencer continues to search for the drug dealer supplying the local students, Melissa continues to fantasize about a man she believes is a nineteen year old boy.

UNDER COVERS tries desperately to make you laugh if you can get past the potential for the unethical issues and possible illegal relationship between a high school teacher, and her sexy, and possibly under aged, Chilean exchange student. The introductory play by play in the bar between our leading couple is slightly uncomfortable; felt more like two teens trying desperately to one up one another; acting cool in the face of seduction and flirting- the cheesy pick up lines will make you groan and shake you head. The continuing relationship between Melissa and Spence finds our couple in precarious situations both in and out of the classroom.

UNDER COVERS is a quick read with attempts at lighthearted fun and romance but the ‘funny times’ and humor felt forced and unbelievable. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense-Spencer knows his way around a woman’s body. The romance is a quick build to insta-love and a happily ever after.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter

Reviewed by Sandy

Under Covers teaser

excerpt

NOTE: Excerpt contains adult situations and adult language suitable for 18 years and older.

I run my hands across the small of her back softly, swaying against her as she arches into me. We are dancing without music, a sexy tango of clothes and lips. (See what I did there? Tango. Oh wait, that’s Argentina. Never mind.) And soon she is standing in nothing but lace. I run my hands over the swells of her breasts and relish in her gasps and moans. She’s wound tight, and I plan to play her like a violin. (That one works much better.) Her bra drops to the floor, and she stands flushed and unashamed before me.
My teacher. Goddamn. I am going to go home and sponsor two more orphans.”Take off your panties,” I order.She hooks her thumbs into the elastic and spins in a slow circle, leading with her ass. Slowly, she slides them down, her shapely ass still in the air, and lifts one leg at a time, my own private strip show. All we’re missing are the glasses and the chaste updo. Although, truly, I don’t feel like I’m missing anything. She’s totally bare, always a treat, and already I can remember her sweet taste on my tongue. I pick her up, and she wraps her legs around my waist, giggling as I spin her around. I set her on the island and kiss her cheeks, her neck, across her collarbone, and down to those tits I’ve been longing for.
Each nipple pebbles under the warmth of my tongue, like they were waiting for this very moment.

Like they were waiting for me. The two new orphans I promised to care for. She drops her head backwards and moans, encircling her arms around my neck. I secure her to me with my right arm and use my left hand to cup each breast as I adore it with my tongue. I can’t stop thinking of what sheer perfection her body is. She smells like a honeycomb, tastes the same, and her skin is as soft as silk. Our bodies move together like they were made for one another, calibrated to the other exactly.

It’s the most intimate moment I’ve ever shared with someone, and we haven’t even gotten to the sexing yet. I said I was riding a unicorn before, but this girl is a unicorn.

My cock begins to ache in anticipation, rising again to the challenge. I lay her down gently across the island, my own personal feast, and bend over her. I can’t stop my hips from moving as I kiss her again, and work my way back down her body. Past the delicious swells of her breasts, down the tight curves of her stomach, past her cunt smelling incredibly of her sex. I love on her legs and her calves, paying special attention to the tender skin behind her knees and on her upper thighs.

She growls playfully, wriggling her body each time my lips cross over the spot she wants me most, but I don’t give in. Instead I give her a single long, slow lick down her blissfully pink pussy and return to her stomach, then back up to her breasts. Her nipples are tight nubs and I gently bite down on each.

“Tease,” she breathes.

I only grin wickedly at her. After all, she’s the one who suggested that this last all evening.

“Lick me.” She’s (impossibly) even sexier when she commands me.

“Only when you beg me.” She might be my teacher, but I can show her a thing or two myself.

She shudders a little. “I never beg.”

“Tonight you will.”


 

About The Author

About Kayti McGee:
Kayti McGee is a former Kansas Citian who now follows the Royals from Colorado. Besides writing, her hobbies include travel, cooking, and all thing Whovian. She also writes as the latter half of Laurelin McGee. Like her co-author Laurelin Paige, she joined Mensa for no other reason than to make her bio more interesting.

Follow: Goodreads/ Website/ Twitter / Facebook

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Mercury Striking ( The Scorpius Syndrome #1) by Rebecca Zanetti-a review

MERCURY STRIKING (The Scorpius Syndrome #1) by Rebecca Zanetti-a review

Mercury Striking

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About the book: Release Date January 26, 2016

With nothing but rumors to lead her, Lynn Harmony has trekked across a nightmare landscape to find one man—a mysterious, damaged legend who protects the weak and leads the strong. He’s more than muscle and firepower—and in post-plague L.A., he’s her only hope. As the one woman who could cure the disease, Lynn is the single most volatile—and vulnerable—creature in this new and ruthless world. But face to face with Jax Mercury…

Danger has never looked quite so delicious…

•••••••••

REVIEW: MERCURY STRIKING is the first full length installment in Rebecca Zanetti’s THE SCORPIUS SYNDROME cross genre Sci-Fi/ UF/Dystopian series focusing on a biological pandemic sweeping the world. This is former US soldier Jax Mercury, and CDC researcher Lynn Harmony’s story line that looks at life in the aftermath, and the fallout from an unknown bacteria-from space. For more background information and some history, there is a prequel novella-SCORPIUS RISING-which can be found in the ON THE HUNT anthology (August 2015).

Told from several third person points of view MERCURY STRIKING focuses on the hunt for a cure for a biological bacteria that has killed 99% of the world’s population-as far as anyone knows. Some of those infected have survived to become something known as a Ripper, but there are two types of Rippers inhabiting the world-one is a zombie like creature who feasts on the living; the other is a survivor whose brain has been altered resulting in a stronger, more powerful enhanced human being. When it is discovered that CDC researcher Lynn Harmony survived and quite possibly carries the answer to the cure, she becomes the target for everyone hoping to rule the world. Enter Jax Mercury-the man who has promised to protect Lynn with his life.

Jax is a reluctant hero; a survivor who has amassed a following in an L.A. compound where food and medicine are at a minimum, and rumors are rampant about the source of the virus. Lynn is a former researcher with the CDC who has been accused of causing the plague, and with it comes a target and heavy price on her back. Lynn will become a virtual prisoner, and fall for the man who holds her heart.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom do not live to see another day. Jax’s L.A. compound is home for those without a safe place to live, but safety is all a matter of perspective when gangs and corrupt politicians battle for supremacy and food. Newcomers to the compound are always suspect; few reveal their own history or how they came to be.

MERCURY STRIKING is a story of suspense, mystery, action and drama. There are heartbreaking moments of loss; scenarios of graphic violence and tragic death; rigid control and demanding obedience. In the post-apocalyptic world of the Scorpius Syndrome it is survival of the fittest, and every man and woman for themselves. Everyone has an agenda but not everyone is on the same page.

Rebecca Zanetti looks at the possibility of what could happen if a space-borne pathogen makes it way to earth. Are we prepared for a pandemic of this magnitude? And could we survive the zombie apocalypse from space? The premise is exhilarating; the characters are real and imaginable; the romance is a struggle when the world is constantly dragging you down. There is no happily ever after but the possibility of light at the end of the tunnel.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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A Weekend of Misbehaving by Carmen Falcone – a Review

A Weekend of Misbehaving by Carmen Falcone – a Review

 

A Weekend of MisbehavingAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
When fantasy becomes reality…

The last thing nanny Alice Sommers needs is to be caught skinny-dipping by her sexy, cranky-pants boss—in his pool. Her sister owes a crap-load of money to a slimy loan shark and Alice really needs this job if she has any hope of saving her family. Fortunately, her boss is richer than sin and needs her just as much.

Art dealer Lorenzo Baldi will lose his prestigious career if his anarchist father’s paintings are revealed to the art world. He’s determined to persuade the paintings’ eccentric owner to sell them to him, even if to pull it off, he’ll have to blackmail his daughter’s nanny—a woman with the sexy curves of a Botticelli masterpiece—into being his fake fiancé.

The gorgeous island of Capri inspires some major misbehaving. But even as the loan shark breathes down Alice’s neck and the paintings move closer to the art scene, Lorenzo drops one more bomb that will change everything.


Review:

A Weekend of Misbehaving by Carmen Falcone is the second book in the Time to Misbehave series. 

Nanny Alice Sommers is dealing with a lot more than someone her age should.  A promise to her father that passed away has led her to taking care of her bi-polar sister, her adorable niece and her ailing mother.  All this,  while being a nanny for single, hot and brooding Lorenzo Baldi’s young daughter Cara.

And while Lorenzo has always just been her boss, she has secretly hidden her true feelings for him. Alice’s  promise to her now deceased father is one thing she won’t compromise on.  So when a loan shark comes forward saying that her sister owes him $20,000, money that she just doesn’t have. She makes it as her responsibility to handle the situation.  As she always does.

With her Cara away at camp, and Lorenzo out of town, Alice stops by to take care of their family pet. While she is there she decides after the week she has had, what harm could come from a quick skinny dip in the pool. And just as she was enjoying the pool – she realizes that Lorenzo is home and he has a woman guest.   But this isn’t just any guest. This is Viola Campello and she has something

Lorenzo desperately wants. Lorenzo would like to buy Violets art collection.  But Violet is a bitter, staunch woman, fresh from a divorce and she will not take lightly Lorenzo allowing an employee to skinny dip in his pool.    In the blink of an eye, Lorenzo tells Violet that Alice is his fiancée. And this lie will set the stage for their future.  Alice must now pretend to be engaged to Lorenzo – even though she has hidden her feelings for him away for years.  Her job was much more important than a crush on her boss.  And now  Violet would like them to come visit her at her home in Capri.

Can Alice pull this off, and what if anything will she gain from this arrangement?  Lorenzo offers to pay her to continue the charade – all she must do is name her price.  Alice immediately responds with $20,000. Done.  But Lorenzo wants to know what she needs the money for.  And against her better judgment she eventually relinquishes the reason to him.

But with the charade in full force, can Lorenzo keep his feelings and his hands to himself.  Will Alice jeopardize her job for a fling with her boss? Can their arrangement benefit each of them without one of them getting hurt?  These questions are wonderfully answered and more.  

I found Alice Sommers, real and relatable.  She is the girl next door, the one that is loyal to her family to a fault.  She’s quick witted and comical and she knows where and what she wants. It was an immediate connection of likeability with her.  Lorenzo, not so much.

At first meeting I found Lorenzo uppity, staunch and unwavering. But as his story unfolds you find out just why he acts the way he does.  And will the one person that has been there for his daughter be able to fulfill what is missing in his life?  The build up of romance and frustration can be carved with a knife.  You want nothing more for them to admit how they feel towards each other and move forward.  But sometimes things aren’t that simple. 

Alice lays her whole truth out before Lorenzo but it seems he is hiding something from her. Like why is this art collection so important to him? And once Alice finds out will she still have the same feelings for him as she has now?

This story tests the lines of promises kept, and family loyalty.  Will Alice give up her hopes and dreams of the future to fulfill her promise to her father.  And just how far can family loyalty stretch?  I found this story wonderfully written.  I laughed and giggled like a school girl with a crush.  Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a fun, romantic read.

Reviewed by Erin

Copy provided by Publisher

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No Exit by Lena Diaz – a Review

No Exit by Lena Diaz – a Review

 

No ExitAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
As an agent of the Equalizers, Jace Atwell will risk everything to destroy EXIT Inc., the corrupt antiterrorist group, before more innocent lives are lost. The only way to infiltrate EXIT is by getting close to the CEO’s beautiful daughter, but when they get a little too close, Jace finds himself falling for the woman he is duty-bound to deceive.

Whatever clandestine activities EXIT is involved in, Melissa Cardenas refuses to believe that her father is responsible and is determined to prove it. So when sexy, smooth-talking Jace comes clean about his motives, Melissa drops a bombshell of her own: she’s been investigating too—and she wants to help him find the truth.

The chemistry between Melissa and Jace is undeniable, but their opposing views of justice make teamwork tricky. With their lives on the line—and the truth something neither of them expected—the only way to survive will be to trust their hearts and each other . . . if they can.

 

Review:

When we last explored the world of Lena Diaz (EXIT Strategy review available here), it became crystal clear that the once-respected organization was anything but savory, and on the verge of being dismantled. Cyprian, the head of the snake, is under intense scrutiny and only an “inside job” can eliminate his nefarious, misconstrued plotting to salvage the company. Easy enough. Jace Atwell will get close to Melissa, Cyprian’s daughter, professionally speaking, and secure irrefutable proof to oust the bad guy permanently. When Jace and Melissa connect, however, lines blur and easy only applies to yesterday (a motto he lives by as a former Navy SEAL). Hot, I know! No Exit was a wonderful extension of a fabulous storyline with new characters (and previous studs), engaging writing and plots to enhance the overall thrilling effect. As customary, Ms. Diaz grips you in varying degrees, from swoons to sweaty upper lips! 🙂

As nonchalant as Jace purports to handle his new job as Melissa’s bodyguard, he quickly ascertained cross purposes at work; mysterious government watchdogs and rogue missions, to name a few. A worry those, but none more than underestimating Melissa (more like sure to blindside him if he doesn’t give Melissa the respect her business acumen has earned her). When Jace’s efforts are compromised (Melissa’s no wallflower), does he walk away, leaving Melissa to root out real evil or stay to collaborate and bring forth real justice?

When Lena Diaz writes a book, the action and romance don’t compete for attention. She weaves them in and sweeps you up, even when you didn’t think it would fit. I sure enjoy that feeling! Jace was written so confidently (no easy task when you compare those previously mentioned studs), I looked forward to harrowing close-calls; to see how they’d hit the ground running when up against the wall. Melissa, in her own right, has a spine of steel and it is called upon more often than not. Dreading the truth will only keep her head buried and this woman needs to live! Romance develops as ideas align. Ms. Diaz has you clutching at your heart in ecstasy and fear.

If Jace and the team succeed, will any hope of keeping Melissa’s heart end in failure?

“…Losing you, if I lost you, that would be the worst.”

     It dawned on him that it wasn’t just the rain running down her face. It was tears.

“Have I?” she whispered. “Have I lost you?”

As if I’d tell?! Ugh, so, so, good! No Exit is a line to cross…to become free. Layers of tangled secrets, lies exposed, truths faced, murder, and then some…It’s all in here!

 

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Unconventional (The Manhattanites #4) by Avery Aster-Review & Book Tour

UNCONVENTIONAL (The Manhattanites #4) by Avery Aster-Review and Book Tour

Unconventional

UNCONVENTIONAL
The Manhattanites #4
by Avery Aster
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: January 26, 2016

Unconventional

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 26, 2016

They are the best of friends and the greatest of lovers. Two men and one woman, searching for fortune and fame, bound together by an eroticism their money and power can’t buy them. Luigi, the romantic alpha hunk. Rocco, the exotic bisexual. Jemma, the insatiable beauty who possesses them both.

From their first rendezvous in Milan, the three set out on a wicked course, jet-setting from the kinky underground sex clubs of Berlin, to the lavish palaces of Moscow, to New York’s high society in pursuit of pleasure. They have only each other to care for. That is…until a baby comes along and changes their destiny. But which of them is the father? And will they continue their poly relationship or give in to convention?

••••••••••

REVIEW: UNCONVENTIONAL is the fourth installment and novella in Avery Aster’s contemporary, adult THE MANHATTANITES erotic, romance series focusing on a group of rich and powerful friends from Manhattan and Europe. This is Jemma, Luigi, and Rocco’s storyline-an ‘unconventional’ polyamorous/polygamous relationship. All three characters were introduced in the previous story lines, and have had secondary and supporting roles throughout. I strongly recommend reading the series in order for cohesion and backstory.

NOTE: UNCONVENTIONAL contains M/M , M/F/M and M/M/F graphic sexual situations.

Told from three first person points of view (Jemma, Luigi and Rocco) as well as ‘asides’ from some of the series’ other characters, UNCONVENTIONAL focuses on the re-building of the relationship between Jemma, Luigi and Rocco. Thirty seven year old Jemma is a former model, and current fashion designer for Prince Massimo Tittoni‘s Girasoli Garments, and Jemma Couture. Jemma’s latest line flopped on the runways of Europe, and with it her career has taken an abrupt turn in the other direction. Two years after Jemma’s battle with breast cancer, our heroine continues to find herself unsure of her future, and has lost her creative and sexual mojo. When Luigi and Rocco give Jemma one final chance at a future together, our heroine is surprised to realize that looking forward and living for the present is better than living in the past wondering about the what-ifs and whys.

The relationship between our threesome is highly sexualized but in the interim, following Jemma’s battle with cancer, Jemma has lost some of her confidence, and sexual identity along with the loss of her breasts. Jemma is afraid to commit to an uncertain future, but with it comes the potential loss of the two men that she loves. An unexpected pregnancy finds Jemma making her relationship with Luigi and Rocco something more permanent. The $ex scenes are graphic and erotic.

Because all three characters have been previously introduced throughout the series, the character building is limited, and there is some ‘missing information’ that is important for the reader to understand each character’s mindset and how they came into the relationship. Avery Aster includes a character breakdown at the beginning of the novella to introduce and reacquaint the reader with all his characters but it does not explain how the trio came to be, therefore I recommend reading the series in order.

The author reveals some of the relationship dynamics, and how the potential loss of Jemma finds Luigi and Rocco struggling to help the woman they love. But saying that, the conflict resolution, the revelation of the pregnancy, and the promise of a future together is wrapped up too quickly, too neatly. The ending is rather abrupt and thusly the novella reads more like an unfinished manuscript with more to come; Jemma’s change in attitude is nothing short of a miracle-I was hoping for more to this particular aspect of the story. UNCONVENTIONAL is an intimate look at three people; the life they have chosen; and the ‘unconventional’ love of one woman with two men.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Unconventional teaser

Excerpt

WARNING: Excerpt is intended for mature readers only.

 

In bed, Luigi was usually the verbal one. Rocco always had something in his mouth—either our lover’s cock was down his throat or he was sucking the cream from my clit—so he never seemed to say much. Luigi did all the talking for him.
Funny, right?
Especially considering outside of the bedroom Luigi was normally quiet, almost conservative in how he spoke. But in bed, he came alive.
Total freaky-deaky.
As I walked over to them, Rocco’s expressive, lust-filled eyes gazed up at me. Ravenous. Lips wide, going down, slowly tugging at the shaft as he came up, followed by a lick on the tip. He kept sucking our lover’s dick as I approached.
Luigi’s left arm was slung over Rocco’s head while his right hand massaged the back of his neck.
He always liked it when we put a concerted effort on his dick.
What man didn’t?
Those two could go at it for hours, milking each other. As if watching two unicorns playing in the wild, it was the most amazing thing to witness.
“Come here,” Luigi instructed.
I stepped closer. With a wicked grin, his face came into focus.
Already on his knees, Rocco squatted beside me and stroked my leg. His very touch sent a prickle of excitement up my thigh.
“Take off her panties, bello.”
Before Rocco could pull them down, I looped my thumb and pointer finger under the thin elastic waistband. Arching my back, I held on to his shoulder to balance myself and started to remove the flesh-toned fabric.
“No.” He snapped his fingers. “Rocco will undress you.”
“And what are you going to do?” I asked playfully.
“I’ll watch.”
Grinning back at him, I put my hands behind my back as Rocco’s palm continued to caress my legs.
“Sorprendente. So amazing.” Slowly, Rocco pulled the panties to my ankles. He lifted one of my legs up over his shoulder then carefully, utterly focused and with intention, he butterfly-kissed the inner part of my thigh then licked at my pussy.
“Bello—”
“Let me do as I please,” he grunted between my legs, dragging his wet tongue over my hot flesh.
His kisses tickled me.
His licks excited me.


 

 

About the author

Avery AsterNew York Times bestselling author Avery Aster pens The Manhattanites, a contemporary erotic romance series of full-length, stand-alone novels, and the naughty new adult prequel companion series The Undergrad Years.

As a resident of New York City and a graduate from New York University, Avery gives readers an inside look at the city’s glitzy nightlife, socialite sexcapades and tall tales of the über-rich and ultra-famous.

The Manhattanites is for fans who miss TV shows like Sex & The City or watch Girls (HBO), Revenge (ABC), and The Bold & the Beautiful (CBS). Avery’s characters are over the top. They have cray-cray fun, speak their minds and always get what they want.

Website:http://www.AveryAster.com
Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/AveryAster
Twitter:http://www.Twitter.com/AveryAster
Goodreads:http://www.goodreads.com/AveryAster
Newsletter:http://eepurl.com/CQ665
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/averyaster/
Google +:https://plus.google.com/102583302617559842072
Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/averyaster/

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Getting Rough (Monkey Business Trio #2) by C.L. Parker-a review

Getting Rough (Monkey Business Trio #2) by C.L. Parker-a review

Getting Rough

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

The next sizzling novel of C. L. Parker’s Monkey Business Trio—perfect for fans of Bared to You and Beautiful Bastard

Hotshot San Diego sports agent Shaw Matthews and his sexy professional adversary Cassidy Whalen have gone head-to-head in the boardroom—and the bedroom. Now Shaw has scored a big promotion—but only because Cassidy turned it down and ran off. There are many things he wants when it comes to Cassidy—just not her pity. So Shaw rushes to a small town in Maine to retrieve his dignity—and maybe the woman he’s hungry to claim once more.

Cassidy has pushed herself to the max to realize her career dreams—until a family crisis brings her home. But Shaw isn’t letting Cassidy go that easily. Neither is gorgeous heartthrob Casey Michaels, the childhood sweetheart she left behind—and who now wants to win her back. As the rivalry between the two alpha males intensifies, and Shaw’s seductive moves reach a whole new level of heat, Cassidy has to make a choice. And this time, it’s for the highest stakes of all.

Getting Rough is intended for mature audiences.

••••••••••••

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

OH how I do love this series. Ya know when you read a book and you just anticipate the next one and can’t wait until it is ready .. umm .. yah .. that! LOL

Getting Rough by C.L. Parker is the second book in the “Monkey Business Trio: series. It picks up right where the first book Playing Dirty left off.

Shaw Matthews is driving through some place that he isn’t even sure is on a map it is so small and desolate. After his lady friend Cassidy Michaels left him to his mock victory over her with regards to a sports agent job position, he is somewhat ticked off at her for “letting him” win. He is also ticked off that she took her hot body and all the yumminess it gave him away to some place so far and away from him. So he is on his way, following her so he can give her a piece of his mind.

Cassidy feels completely broken. She broke the rule and fell for the sexy Shaw, and after his secrets were revealed, she felt she had no choice to but to walk away. She goes home to the tiny fishing village she grew up in, to just take a load off her mind. Even when she is reunited with her childhood friend and love, she can’t seem to shake Shaw out of her mind.

Now, Cassidy is helping her family out after an emergency. When Shaw shows up and immerses himself into Cassidy’s world, she cannot believe how well he fits in .. he fits in even when he doesn’t! LOL Now, Cassidy is fighting her feelings for Shaw while dealing with her childhood love’s jealousy, trying to to handle her parents and good intentions of the town folk, and quite frankly she is ready to snap due to being pulled in so many different directions. Then she finds out something that is a major life changer and suddenly her decision becomes clear, even if she can’t determine if it is right or wrong.

There is something about these two as a couple that completely makes me swoon. I adore these two together and their heat is off the charts. Very yummy read indeed! I love how in this book we see a softer more playful side of Shaw as opposed to the “sports agent player” we saw in the first book. Cassidy really had to put on her big girl panties in this book as well .. ultimately deciding which strings needed to get cut for good.

Love that C.L. has set us up for the final book in this trilogy. I am eagerly anticipating it. So if you like a hot contemporary romance, with a side of sport agents, a small town who stick together and a love blooming, then you may just find that this is the book for you!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel

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