Monthly Archives: April 2016

His Royal Princess (Billionaire Boys Club 3.5) by Jessica Clare-a review

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HIS ROYAL PRINCESS (Billionaire Boys Club 3.5) by Jessica Clare-a review

His Royal Princess

$1.99 ebook: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

About the book: Release Date April 19, 2016

Their romance led to a royal wedding in Once Upon a Billionaire. Now see how it all began for Princess Alexandra of Bellissime and American actor Luke Houston in this novella from New York Times bestselling author Jessica Clare.

As heir to the throne of Bellissime, Princess Alexandra is supposed to be cool and calm…not crushing on a movie star. When she hears that Luke Houston is filming a scene for his next movie in her tiny country, however, she can’t resist sneaking onto set to get a glimpse of the Hollywood hunk.

When Alex is almost caught on set by the press, she ducks into the first available hiding place—only to find herself in Luke’s private trailer, and getting much more than just a glimpse of him. It’s an up close and personal encounter that sets her heart aflutter, and sets her mind on some very unladylike plans to get to know him better…

••••••••••

REVIEW: HIS ROYAL PRINCESS by Jessica Clare is a prequel novella in the BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB adult, contemporary, romance series. HIS ROYAL PRINCESS falls in the timeline before Once Upon A Billionaire (book 4) and follows the relationship between American actor Luke Houston, and twenty eight year old Princess Alexandra of Bellissme. Alexandra (Viscount Griffin’s cousin) and Luke were first introduced to the reader in book four. HIS ROYAL PRINCESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspectives HIS ROYAL PRINCESS focuses on Princess Alexandra’s ‘crush’ on American actor Luke Houston. While Luke is filming his latest movie in Bellissme, Princess Alexandra finds herself on the set, hoping for a chance to meet her favorite actor. What ensues is the forbidden but building relationship between a member of the Bellissme Royal family, and one of America’s most popular actors.

HIS ROYAL PRINCESS is a sweet and simple read. The relationship is a quick build between two people whose lifestyles are utterly different but a relationship built upon trust and love. But an innocent comment by a member of Houston’s team, finds the Princess heartbroken and wanting to run from the man that she loves.

The $ex scenes are limited; there is no graphic sexual language or over the top sexual situations. The story line is quite tame and reads somewhere between YA and NA. The character building is limited-the story line focuses on the current relationship and not the past. There is very little anxiety, angst or conflict-Jessica’s usual writing style feels absent as though someone else wrote the story.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

SOMETHING FUN from Jessica Clare and Penguin/Random House

You can figure out just who your billionaire boyfriend would be with this super fun and ridiculously scientific Playbuzz Quiz!!! Take the quiz and share who you got on your social! Who’s Your Billionaire Boyfriend?

https://www.playbuzz.com/berkleytest10/whos-your-billionaire-boyfriend

Reading guide Billionaire Bad Boys

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Wild Card by Aleah Barley – a Review

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Wild Card by Aleah Barley – a Review

 

Wild CardAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
He’s no saint, she’s all sinner.

Las Vegas showgirl Gina Malloy isn’t looking for trouble when she walks in on a shady backroom deal, but when the bullets start flying, she grabs the bag full of stolen loot and hits the road out of town. Of course, she didn’t count on the bad guys tailing her, or the sexy detective who comes to her rescue.

Detective Gabriel Finn is no one’s knight in shining armor. A former priest, he just wants to drag the witness’s butt back to town. Instead, he gets a tough as nails woman who’s all grit and heart. When a pair of thugs take a shot at her, he decides the best way to keep her safe is to stay out of Las Vegas and launch his own investigation.

Take one long-legged showgirl, a former priest turned detective, and a couple of mafia thugs. Mix carefully. The results should be explosive.

 

Review;

I couldn’t have said it better then those last couple of sentences from the book’s synopsis.  Wild Card was all that and then some for me.  I loved this book and didn’t want to put it down. From the first few pages I was hooked and couldn’t read fast enough.  Wild Card by Aleah Barley is a ‘love on the run’ Vegas style story.  It’s a fun, fast paced, flirty, sexy, high energy styled story.  The characters are well developed, with real issues/problems and are easy to like and get to know. There’s a solid plot with plenty of page turning action and just the right amount of sexual chemistry between our would be couple to keep the reader interested from beginning to end. 

The interactions between Gina and Finn are fun, playful and filled with sexual tension that explodes with one very hot sexy lap dance scene that leads to more in a seedy bar while on the run from the bad guys.  Their sexual chemistry simmered from their first meeting, and I enjoyed the way Ms. Barley kept building on it.  She didn’t rush the romance and just toss them together right away.  Instead, she builds off the energy that Gina and Finn have together and allowed the reader to learn who they were before and who they are now. 

While on the run Gina and Finn eventually fall in love with one another, but at the same time manage to take down the bad guys that are after Gina and come to terms with their lives and where they want it to go now.  Who would’ve thought a former priest turned cop and a showgirl would hit it off the way Gina and Finn do. This mismatched couple from different sides of the track do, and they create a fun adventure for the reader that carries us away on a crazy Vegas styled adventure filled with guns, bullets, and running for your life.

If you enjoy a fast paced, wild ride adventure then Wild Card is the book for you.  Until next time happy reading!!

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Publisher

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Awakened (Eternal Guardians 8) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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AWAKENED (Eternal Guardians #8) by Elisabeth Naughton-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Tempted.indd

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About the book: Release Date April 12, 2016

DAMON – For twenty-five years he’s served as a plaything for the gods. With no memory of his past, he has no way of knowing if this is his ultimate fate, but he senses there has to be more to life.

Damon’s hope for more comes in the form of the Sirens’ newest recruit. Elysia is unlike any trainee he’s ever met. Not only can she remember where she came from—an ability the Sirens block—but she has an instant connection to Damon, one he’s never felt and doesn’t understand. Soon Damon is willing to do anything to have Elysia. Even risk the wrath of the gods to break her out of Olympus so he can keep her for himself.

But Damon’s past isn’t a mystery to everyone. Evil forces are at work beneath the surface, and before long, Damon realizes that the connection he shares with Elysia isn’t a random coincidence. His fate—and the darkness it brings—was cemented long ago. And when it is finally revealed, no one will be safe.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: AWAKENED is the eighth full length installment in Elisabeth Naughton’s adult ETERNAL GUARDIANS romantic fantasy series based in Greek mythology, prophecy and history. The modern day heroes –the Argonauts-are descended from the Gods of Olympus whom fate has decreed the Eternal Guardians on Earth. This is Damon and Elysia’s story line. AWAKENED can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order as there is a continuing theme running throughout. AWAKENED fast forwards the series twenty five years and begins to follow the next generation of Argonauts and warriors.

Told from several third person perspectives AWAKENED focuses on Damon-an imprisoned male who for twenty five years has been the sex slave to Aphrodite, without memory of his previous life, and a man trained in the art of seduction. When Athena sets out to train a new group of Siren recruits, Damon finds himself face to face with Elysia-the Argolea princess- and the woman who would call to his soul. What ensues is the forbidden relationship between Siren and Trainer, and Elysia’s need to save Damon from the only life he knows.

AWAKENED has a deep connection to the previous novella-RAVAGED- in that our hero must come to terms with who he is, and from where he comes. Damon is a man without a past, and his future has been decided by the gods. While Elysia struggles as a Siren recruit, Damon begins to fall deeper for the chosen princess. Betrayal, heartbreak, obsession and revenge are the focus for two lost souls-without memories to guide them Elysia and Damon battle their desires while trying to stay one step ahead of the gods. It is Damon’s warrior like persona that gives our heroine pause as to the true identity of the man with whom she is falling in love.

AWAKENED is detailed story of destiny, steeped in Greek mythology, prophecy and lore blended into a modern day tale of gods seeking power and revenge against those they consider less than worthy. While Zeus continues to seek the Orb of Kronos, Athena continues to build her army of Sirens. The premise is intriguing, intricate and enchanting; the characters are passionate, startling and intense; the romance is fated and seductive. Another fantastic addition to Elisabeth Naughton’s ETERNAL GUARDIANS fantasy series.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter.

Reviewed by Sandy

Series Spotlight

Eternal Guardians 2

FREE ebook: Marked : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

99¢ ebook  Entwined : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Tempted : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Enraptured : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Enslaved : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Bound : Amazon.com/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

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

Excerpt beige

 

“Mm…” Aphrodite swung her long legs over the side of the enormous bed and stretched her arms above her head. “That was wonderful.” Curly auburn hair the color of autumn leaves spilled down the pale skin of her naked spine as she turned and cast a coy look over her shoulder. “You get better and better, Damianos.”
The two naked nymphs who’d joined them scurried off the bed and rushed out of the room. Aphrodite pushed to her feet, all long lines and perfect curves, and crossed to the chaise.
The nymphs could disappear after the fact, the lucky females, but Damon could not. Rolling to his side, he propped his elbow on the mattress and rested his head on his hand as he watched Aphrodite slide a white silk robe onto her pale arms and tried not to be resentful of that fact. “Good thing, since my purpose is only to serve.”
Aphrodite smirked. “And you do it so well, erastis.”
Lover. He hated the way that word sounded.
The goddess moved back to the edge of the mattress and sat, then reached out and twirled a lock of Damon’s hair around her finger. “Speaking of serving, a new class of Sirens is set to arrive.” She pushed out her full, plump lips in a sexy little pout. “Athena is going to try to steal you from me again.”
Damon looked up at the goddess of love and desire and tried to feign disappointment, though inside, excitement leapt at the possibility of a break. Aphrodite’s temple wasn’t a bad place to spend your days—wide soaring rooms, tall stately pillars, marble everything, fountains and baths that promised both pleasure and relaxation, and the sweet scent of heliotrope wafting on the air, awakening the senses. But lately he couldn’t help thinking there had to be more to life than this. More than meaningless pleasure. More than casual sex. More than catering to Aphrodite, a goddess who cared only about herself.
“A new class, huh?” He rolled back into the mountain of pillows and laced his fingers behind his head, remembering that Athena and Aphrodite didn’t always get along. Jealousy was forever an issue between them—between any of the ruling Olympians—and he’d learned long ago not to show interest in any immortal other than the one currently in his line of sight.
“You don’t want to go, do you?” Aphrodite slid her finger down his throat and across the dusting of hair on his bare chest. “I could tell Athena you’re too valuable, which you are.”
This was where he needed to be careful. He couldn’t show too much enthusiasm, or Aphrodite would never let him leave. “Of course not. Training new Sirens is as enjoyable for me as spending time with your husband is for you.”
Aphrodite’s lips curled. Everyone knew she couldn’t stand her husband, Hephaestus. Her gaze hovered on Damon’s face. “That boring?”
She was beautiful, even Damon couldn’t deny that. Meadow-green eyes, flawless skin, high cheekbones, and lips made only for seduction. But though physically he was still attracted to her, more and more lately, he was finding it difficult to be aroused in her company. Sex with Aphrodite was as empty as his life these days. There had to be more. A reason he was here. A future that held some kind of purpose. Something other than…immortal perfection.
He drew his hand from behind his head and brushed the back of his fingers against the smooth curve of her jawline. “Infinitely boring. When I’m with the Sirens, I count the days until I return to your temple.”
Which was a flat-out lie. Working with Athena’s Sirens, training them in combat, strategy, warfare—even seduction—was a thousand times more fun than being stuck in Aphrodite’s claustrophobic pleasure palace.
Aphrodite sighed and smoothed her hand over his chest again, dropping her gaze to where she touched him. “I suppose I could consider letting you go. So long as I know you’re pining away for me. Absence, they say, does make the heart grow fonder.”
Damon had never found that to be true, but he refrained from saying so. He wasn’t about to do anything to jeopardize this chance to escape, however short his respite might be. “It does. Very much so.”
She leaned down and kissed him, sliding her tongue along his at the first touch and tasting him deeply. He didn’t pull away, didn’t say no, knew it was pointless to do so. Instead, he slid his fingers into the curly mass of auburn hair framing her face and kissed her back. Her mouth turned greedy against his, and she wriggled out of the robe she’d just pulled on, then pushed the sheet from his hips.
Yeah, there has to be more than this, he thought as she climbed over him. More than aphrodisiacs to keep him hard, more than meaningless sex, more than immortals using him for their pleasure. There had to be a hell of a lot more. Somewhere.
He just hoped he found it before he went mad.

 

 

About The Author beige

Follow Elisabeth: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Twitter

Elisabeth naughtonBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

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Earwen’s Song by M.A. Abraham – Review & Giveaway

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Earwen’s Song by M.A. Abraham – Review & Giveaway

 

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Earwen’s Song
Elven Chronicles series – Book #10
by M.A. Abraham
Release Date: April 16, 2016

Earwen's SongAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
With one look Eöl knows he has finally found the love of his life, his Life Mate, one he has promised to bind so tightly they will never be parted. He is about to find that it isn’t as easy as he believes it will be, not with a Light Elf mate, who is also an Eagle Claw.

Shocked by the sudden appearance of a Life Mate in her life, when she hadn’t expected one, Eärwen runs. It isn’t that she is against the idea, but this wasn’t supposed to happen to her and, although she fights it, their attraction to one another is too strong.

As a newly bonded couple of power, they are hunted by the Demons and then captured, before being parted. The bond they share, however, is stronger than anyone believes. It connects them in ways few could have foreseen, as heart to heart, mind to mind, soul to soul, they complete their bond in the way of the most ancient of Elves.

 

 

Review:

Earwen’s Song by M.A. Abraham is the 10th book in her wonderful Elven Chronicles series. I have said this before, this series just keeps getting better and better.  After the last book, we knew Earwen and Eol would be our heroes in this one.  Pretty quickly, both Earwen and Eol accidently are shocked to find out that they are lifemates.  Each has their own reactions.  Earwen is not happy, since is having too much fun with her friends and does not want to be bonded to any one, though Eol is one handsome Elf.  Eol is thrilled to finally have found his lifemate, and to be the pretty Earwen, who is a powerful young Tratcher and Eagle Claw.

When Eol kisses Earwen, she begins to feel the strong attraction, but she does not want to do the binding words just yet.  Eol will do a different kind of bonding that he learned during his study of old ancient history.  With them working together to help fight the Demon War, which is escalating, the unthinkable happens.  Eol will be captured, and Earwen injured. The different ancient bonding is so strong, that they will both be tied together feeling each of their pains, as well as able to mind connect with each other. 

All of this happens early on, as all the Kings, Gabriel, and the rest of the elves we have come to love will join in a major fierce battle against the demons and their wizards in a race to stop the onslaught, and to find a way to save Eol. Losing Eol will also cause Gabriel and Eden to lose Earwen,  as her bond to badly injured Eol, is causing her much of the same pain. 

Earwen’s Song is another exciting and tense story in M.A. Abraham’s wonderful Elven Chronicles Series.  It was great to see most of the children we have watched grow up to become such powerful warriors.  Through the intense battle, it was fun to watch what they can do, but at the same time, there was some emotional parts filled with torture and death. M.A. Abraham has written another fantastic story that continues to evolve, with non-stop action and great characters.  Very well done.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

 

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Unbreakable (Heart of Stone #7) by KM Scott-Release Day Promotion

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Unbreakable (Heart of Stone #7) by KM Scott-release day promotion

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UNBREAKABLE
Heart of Stone #7
by KM Scott
Release Date : April 14, 2016
Genre: adult,contemporary, erotic, romance

unbreakable

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

For Gage, the past never goes away. All he’s done to protect Jordan doesn’t erase the failure he can’t forget. But he’ll have to find a way to overcome those demons that still haunt him to be the man she needs him to be or risk losing her forever.

The only thing Jordan knows to be true is Gage loves her. She doesn’t know why Hailey wants her dead or why a billionaire wants to help her kill her, but together with the man she loves, they’ll work to unravel the mystery behind Hailey’s plan.
But will it be in time, or will she lose him again, this time for good?

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About The Author Black and Blue

 

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

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Bachelor For Hire by Charlene Sands / Falling For Her Bachelor by Robin Bielman-Reviews, Book Tour & Giveaway

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Bachelor For Hire by Charlene Sands / Falling for Her Bachelor by Robin Bielman-reviews, book tour and giveaway

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Bachelor For HireBACHELOR FOR HIRE
(Bachelor Auction #1)
by Charlene Sands
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 5, 2016

She needed him to guard her body, in more ways than one…

Ex-Army sergeant and security expert, Cody Matthews recently walked away from his company to work The Lucky B Ranch just outside of Marietta, Montana. The ranch is his refuge, but his hiding out is short-lived when he’s recruited into the Marietta Bachelor Auction and his high school ex-crush bids a small fortune to spend one weekend with him.

Hollywood starlet, Hayley Dawn O’Malley has had decent, honest, sexy Code Matthews on the brain ever since she left Marietta after high school to pursue her dreams. But now she’s back in town and someone is threatening her. Code, a natural-born protector, is the only man she trusts to keep her safe.

Spending their weekend date in a remote cabin, Code plays the role of reluctant bodyguard, yet Hayley isn’t going to let the tormented man deny his feelings for her, no matter the threat to her body or her heart.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: BACHELOR FOR HIRE by Charlene Sands is the first installment in the multi-authored, contemporary adult BACHELOR AUCTION romance series. Marietta, Montana’s medical center is in need of funding for a helipad, and what better way than for Marietta’s high school alumni -the school’s four most popular heroes- to return for Marietta’s Bachelor Auction. This is ex-Army sergeant/security expert Cody Matthews, and Hollywood star Hayley Dawn O’Malley’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Cody and Hayley) BACHELOR FOR HIRE is a second chance romance for two people whose lives went in different directions twelve years earlier. Cody and Hayley were childhood sweethearts; Cody the protector, and Hayley the beautiful young girl who wanted something more in her life. When Hayley headed to Hollywood, Cody and his broken heart enlisted in the Army, and following two tours in the Middle East, Cody returned to the States, and started Code First Security Firm. An invitation to participate in the town’s fund raiser finds Cody back where it all began, facing the woman he lost years before. What ensues is the rekindling of a romance between Cody and Hayley, and the threats against Hayley by an unknown source.

The world building focuses on the rebuilding relationship between Cody and Hayley, and Cody’s dogged determination to protect the woman with whom he was once in love. Hayley wants a second chance at love with the man whose heart she broke twelve years earlier but Cody has a hard time letting go of the past-a recent past wherein Cody lost someone he had sworn to protect. When threats against Hayley becomes personal and real, Cody knows that to fall in love with his latest assignment would probably bring heartbreak when Hayley walks away-again.

We are introduced to the secondary and supporting characters including the other three potential bachelors up for auction: Nick Palotay, Gavin Clarke and Colt Ewing. Nick’s story will be told in book two-FALLING FOR HER BACHELOR. Cody’s Uncle Brand plays a central role in our hero’s life, and we are also introduced to a number of townsfolk who like to gossip and keep a close eye on the comings and goings of their local heroes.

I will admit I did have an issue with the revelation of the ‘guilty’ party. I am not sure if the reasoning made sense; it seems to be a little convoluted and not quite believable but, once again, it is a story meant to entertain, and I was ….entertained.

BACHELOR FOR HIRE is a quick and sexy read. The premise is spirited and heartwarming; the characters are a mix of colorful and animated; the romance is a struggle towards a happily ever after.

Copy supplied by the promoter

Reviewed by Sandy

______________

Falling for her BachelorFALLING FOR HER BACHELOR
(Bachelor Auction #2)
by Robin Bielman
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / itunes / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 12, 2016

When Navy firefighter Nick Palotay returns to Marietta to go on the bachelor auction block for a good cause, he expects it to be risk free. But when he needs someone safe to bid on him and his sister’s best friend is coaxed into stepping up, Nick isn’t prepared for the effect Cassidy has on him. She sends his mind to all kinds of dirty places…places his battered heart can’t afford.

Freelance photographer Cassidy Ware is in waaay over her head. She’s always been Nick’s other little sister, but she’s all grown up now and just a glance from him leaves her hot and bothered. Still, she can stay immune to his charms and keep him at an emotional distance because she’s got an agenda, too. She’ll help the too-handsome Nick with his charitable deed, and, in return, he’ll help her keep an unwelcome suitor at bay.

A deal’s a deal, but when their “business transaction” turns into more pleasure than duty, can they walk away from each other without losing what matters most?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: FALLING FOR HER BACHELOR by Robin Bielman is the second installment in the multi-authored BACHELOR AUCTION romance series focusing the small town of Marietta, Montana. Marietta, Montana’s medical center is in need of funding for a helipad, and what better way than for Marietta’s high school alumni -the school’s four most popular heroes- to return for Marietta’s Bachelor Auction. This is Navy firefighter Nick Palotay, and photographer Cassidy Ware’s story line. FALLING FOR HER BACHELOR runs parallel to the timeline in book one- Bachelor For Hire.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Nick and Cassidy) FALLING FOR HER BACHELOR finds Nick targeted by the town ‘crazy lady’ at Marietta’s Bachelor Auction and devises a plan to ensure someone, anyone else, win his offer for the weekend. When his sister Rowan gets her best friend Cassidy to bid for Nick, Nick knows that he may have made the biggest mistake of his life. Cassidy has had an unrequited crush on Nick since high school, and Nick is in no place for any romantic entanglements in his life. What ensues is a weekend of fun, relaxation and a ‘friends with benefits’ arrangement that sees Cassidy falling deeper in love, and Nick choosing to walk away in the end.

Cassidy is Nick’s little sister’s best friend, and he has always seen Cassidy as a little kid. Nick has lost a number of people in his life, and he isn’t ready for a permanent arrangement. Cassidy and Nick have choices to make, and Cassidy is ready to move on without the man with whom she has fallen in love. The $ex scenes are seductive and provocative without the over the top graphic sexual scenarios and text.

The world building continues to focus on the bachelor auction but also on the small town of Marietta, Montana and the people who live there. We learn a little bit about Cassidy and Nick’s back stories of loss, love and pain. The premise is enjoyable and romantic; the characters are engaging and passionate; the romance is heartbreaking and emotional-knowing that in the end, this may be all there is. Robin Bielman adds a fun, sexy, and emotional installment to the Bachelor Auction Series o Marietta, Montana.

Copy supplied by the tour promoter

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

Hey everyone! Charlene and Robin here. We’re so happy to be celebrating the release of our Bachelor Auction books together! And being that we’ve never personally participated in a bachelor auction, we thought we’d have some fun and share our dream auction participants with you today.

It was tough narrowing it down to four, but since our series centers on four guys—high school football friends reuniting for a worthy cause—we picked that special number. So, here they are! The guys we’d like to bid a chunk of change on are…

Bachelor Pic for Post

Sign us up for any outdoor activity with the sexy, hot Chris Hemsworth!

We know we’d laugh until our stomachs hurt with the adorable Chris Pratt.

That tie is definitely coming off gorgeous Theo James if we get our hands on him.

And the very handsome Shemar Moore makes us want to stay quiet so we can just stare at him and listen to him talk all day.

So tell us, who is your ultimate bachelor auction pick?

about the author

Charlene SandsCharlene Sands

Charlene Sands is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and historical romance. She has been honored with the National Readers Choice Award, the Booksellers Best Award, The Cataromance Reviewers Choice Award and Romantic Times Magazine’s Best Harlequin Desire Award of 2014.   She is an active member of Romance Writers of America. When not writing, she spends time with her four “princesses”, enjoys sunny Pacific beaches and yummy chocolate mocha cappucinos! Sign up for her newsletter for fun and exclusive prizes at www.charlenesands.com and on FB and Twitter!

Site: http://www.charlenesands.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CharleneSandsBooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CharleneSands

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/CharleneSands

 

Robin BielmanRobin Bielman

USA Today Bestselling Author Robin Bielman lives in Southern California with her high school sweetheart husband, two sons, and one crazy-cute dog who loves to chew on everyone’s socks. When not attached to her laptop, she can almost always be found with her nose in a book. She also likes to run, hike, eat cupcakes, and dip her toes in the ocean. Writing is a dream come true, and she still pinches herself to be sure it’s real.

She loves to connect with readers. Learn more and sign up for her newsletter on her website at http://robinbielman.com.

Site: http://robinbielman.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/RobinBielmanWriter

Twitter: http://twitter.com/RobinBielman

Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/robinbielman

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Dirtiest Secret (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-Review, Book tour & Giveaway

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DIRTIEST SECRET (S.I.N. #1) by J. Kenner-review and book tour

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DIRTIEST SECRET
S.I.N. #1
by J. Kenner
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense
Release Date: April 19, 2016

Dirtiest Secret

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 19, 2016

It was wrong for us to be together, but it was even harder to be apart.

The memory of Dallas Sykes burns inside of me.

Everyone knows him as a notorious playboy, a man for whom women and money are no object. But to me, he’s still the one man I desperately crave—yet the one I can never have.

Dallas knows me better than anyone else. We bear the same scars, the same darkness in our past. I thought I could move on by staying away, but now that we’re drawn together once more, I can’t fight the force of our attraction or the temptation to make him mine.

We’ve tried to maintain control, not letting ourselves give in to desire. And for so long we’ve told ourselves no—but now it’s finally time to say yes.

Dirtiest Secret is intended for mature audiences.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: DIRTIEST SECRET is the first installment in J. Kenner’s adult, contemporary S.I.N. erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on heir to a billion dollar enterprise Dallas Sykes, and author/ child advocate Jane Martin. DIRTIEST SECRET and the S.I.N. series is a spin off from J.Kenner’s STARK series. Dallas Sykes is reintroduced to the reader in DEEPEST KISS (March 2016).

Told from first person point of view (Jane) and third person perspective (Dallas) using memories from the past and present day, DIRTIEST SECRET follows the ‘forbidden’ relationship between Dallas Sykes and Jane Martin. Dallas and Jane have known one another since early childhood, and have endured some dark and damaging times, but Dallas is keeping his distance from the woman that he loves to protect her from the man that he has become.

Jane is a woman, strong in her convictions, but a woman who has loved Dallas Sykes most of her life. As she struggles with her relationship with and love for Dallas, Dallas continues to keep secrets from Jane and the rest of the world. What ensues are Jane’s attempts to keep Dallas in her life, as Dallas battles the demons from the past.

To be honest, I am purposely being vague about much of the premise as the secrets from the past, the present and the possible future are dark, dangerous and heartbreaking, and are the catalyst that sent Jane and Dallas’s lives out of control. The ‘elephant in the room’-the person ultimately responsible for the past-is easily deduced from my perspective but there is always a possibility that something could change in future installments.

The world building focuses on relationships, recovery and revenge-grieving about what was and what will never be yet struggling to ensure it will never happen again. We look at fractured family dynamics, secrets from the past, and a ‘forbidden’ love that is only forbidden in the mind-life long friends who have lived through hell and survived to live another day.

The relationship between Jane and Dallas has been damaged and destroyed by the past- a past mired in betrayal, heartbreak, and abuse, that have formed the people we read about –today. The chemistry between Jane and Dallas is palpable; unmistakable and profound. Dallas needs and wants Jane with every breath that he takes, but he believes is unable to give Jane the love that she needs.

J. Kenner once again traverses into the BDSM territory with secret clubs, and hidden desires. In all honesty, I am tiring of the BDSM trope-the billionaire who needs to control and use power to usurp the women in his life-sometimes I want a hero who doesn’t require Domination/submission to succeed or fall in love.

DIRTIEST SECRET ends on a cliffhanger-it is book one of three and therefore be prepared to learn the truth-one book at a time. The premise is a slow build that focuses on what happened in the early years of Dallas and Jane’s life-the catastrophic actions of greed; the destructive nature of abuse and betrayal. The characters are heartbreaking, impassioned and intense. The romance is an emotional struggle against the odds-a love that has never faltered between two people who have fallen into a pit of darkened memories and a tainted past. DIRTIEST SECRET is an emotional and heartbreaking tale that grabs hold and refuses to let go.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Dirtiest Secret teaser

Excerpt Black and Hot Pink

 

Even by Southampton standards, the party at the nine-thousand-square-foot mansion on Meadow Lane reeked of extravagance.
Grammy Award–winning artists performed on an outdoor stage that had been set up on the lush lawn that flowed from the main house to the tennis courts. Celebrities hobnobbed with models who flirted with Wall Street tycoons who discussed stock prices with tech gurus and old-money academics, all while sampling fine scotch and the season’s chicest gin. Colored lights illuminated the grotto style pool, upon which nude models floated lazily on air mattresses, their bodies used by artisan sushi chefs as presentation platters for epicurean delights.Each female guest received a Hermès Birkin bag and each male received a limited edition Hublot watch, and the exclamations of delight—from both the men and the women—rivaled the boom of the fireworks that exploded over Shinnecock Bay at precisely ten p.m., perfectly timed to distract the guests from the bustle of the staff switching out the dinner buffet for the spread of desserts, coffee, and liqueurs.

No expense had been spared, no desire or craving or indulgence overlooked. Nothing had been left to chance, and every person in attendance agreed that the party was the Must Attend event of the season, if not of the year. Hell, if not of the decade.

Everyone who was anyone was there, under the stars on the four acre lot on Billionaires’ Row.

Everyone, that is, except the billionaire who was actually hosting the party. And speculation as to where he was, what he was doing, and who he was doing it with ripped through the well-liquored and gossip-hungry crowd like wildfire in a windstorm.

“No idea where he could have disappeared off to, but I’d bet good money he’s not pining away in solitude,” said a reed-thin man with salt-and-pepper hair and an expression that suggested disapproval but was most likely envy.

“I swear I came five times,” a perky blonde announced to her best friend in the kind of stage whisper designed to attract attention. “The man’s a master in bed.”

“He’s got a shrewd head for business, that one,” said a Wall Street trader, “but no sense of propriety where his cock is concerned.”

“Oh, honey, no. He’s not relationship material.” A brunette celebrating a recently inked modeling contract shivered as if reliving a moment of ecstasy. “He’s like fine chocolate. Meant to be savored in very limited quantities. But so damn good when you have it.”

“More power to him if he can grab that much pussy.” A hipster with beard stubble and a man-bun wiped his wire-rimmed glasses clean with his shirttail. “But why the fuck does he have to be so blatant about it?”

“All of my friends have had him.” The petite redhead who pulled in a six figure wife bonus smiled slowly, and the flash of her green eyes suggested that she was the cat and he was the delicious cream. “But I’m the only one of us to enjoy a second helping.”

“All your friends?”

“How much pussy?”

“At least half the women here tonight. Maybe more.”

“Man, don’t even ask that. Just trust me. Dallas Sykes is the King of Fuck. You and me? Mere mortals like us can’t even compare.”


 

about the author

J.KennerThough known primarily for her award-winning and internationally bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list and #1 internationally, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swopn for him.” A four time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy).

Website – Twitter – Facebook – Pinterest – Instagram – Tumblr – Goodreads

Giveaway

J.Kenner’s publisher and The Reading Cafe are graciously offering a paper copy of DIRTIEST SECRET to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please follow J.Kenner on Facebook.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from April 14 to 18, 2016

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One With You (Crossfire #5) by Sylvia Day-a review

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ONE WITH YOU (Crossfire #5) by Sylvia Day-a review

One With You

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 5, 2016

Gideon Cross. Falling in love with him was the easiest thing I’ve ever done. It happened instantly. Completely. Irrevocably.

Marrying him was a dream come true. Staying married to him is the fight of my life. Love transforms. Ours is both a refuge from the storm and the most violent of tempests. Two damaged souls entwined as one.

We have bared our deepest, ugliest secrets to one another. Gideon is the mirror that reflects all my flaws … and all the beauty I couldn’t see. He has given me everything. Now, I must prove I can be the rock, the shelter for him that he is for me. Together, we could stand against those who work so viciously to come between us.

But our greatest battle may lie within the very vows that give us strength. Committing to love was only the beginning. Fighting for it will either set us free … or break us apart.

Heartbreakingly and seductively poignant, One with You is the breathlessly awaited finale to the Crossfire® saga, the searing love story that has captivated millions of readers worldwide.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: ONE WITH YOU is the fifth and final installment in Sylvia Day’s contemporary adult CROSSFIRE erotic, romance series focusing on Gideon Cross, and Eva Trammell-Cross. ONE WITH YOU should not be read as a stand alone as some of the events of the story line have been building throughout the series.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Eva and Gideon) ONE WITH YOU begins immediately upon the events of book four (Captivated by You) and focuses on the preparations for Eva and Gideon’s upcoming nuptials-a second ceremony for family and friends- and a marriage that will hopefully keep the beasts and darkness at bay. What ensues is a series of events and revelations that neither the reader nor the characters ever saw coming.

ONE WITH YOU is the culmination of five books, and a timeline that covers but three months that saw two damaged and broken people, fall in love with one another while fending off attacks of self doubt, insecurity, jealousy, and threats from outside and within. The characters grew as individuals, as a couple, and recognized that giving control to someone else is never easy but a necessary part of growing up and being in a committed relationship …but…they still have issues of trust that inevitably brought about more anxious moments and emotional breakdowns.

Eva and Gideon’s strengths and weaknesses are subjected to tests time and time again. Some previous issues and premise scenarios have been addressed while many questions have been left unanswered; and a number of new controversies, problems and contentious events from the present and the past have presented with great fanfare yet with very little resolution or closure. There are a number of dream sequences where fantasy meets reality; where Eva and Gideon addressed the ghosts in their lives; and plenty of psychological and emotional assessment via couple’s therapist Dr. Peterson as it pertains to Eva and Gideon-individually and as a couple. There is a bit of a red herring regarding Eva’s mother’s back story that seems to come out of left field- its purpose to the main story line is confusing and a bit of a non-sequitur that left me with more questions than answers.

Sylvia Day brings Eva and Gideon’s love story to an end with a happily ever after-for now. There are a number of loose ends and unanswered questions regarding secondary and supporting characters that need to be or should have been addressed especially the ‘new’ revelations and subsequent events regarding certain family members on both sides of the aisle–perhaps a novella or two wrapping up their stories could be on Sylvia’s upcoming agenda.

ONE WITH YOU and the Crossfire Series is a roller coaster of emotions; the ups and downs of a relationship between two people whose emotional health and happiness is tied to one another; whose profound need to be loved and accepted is intense and unbalanced; where the romance is passionate and provocative; where the $ex is erotic and intoxicating.

Sylvia Day’s CROSSFIRE SERIES is a fantastic read; a wonderful series for lovers of broken heroes and the women in their lives.

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Reviewed by Sandy

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