Monthly Archives: May 2016

Scarlet Rain by Kristin Cast – a Review

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Scarlet Rain by Kristin Cast – a Review

 

Scarlet RainAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
In “Amber Smoke,” Kristin Cast introduced her legions of readers to Alek and Eva. Alek, immortal son of the Furies, has been charged to save his home and recapture the souls of the damned, evil creatures who escaped Tartarus into the Mortal Realm. He can’t, however, do it alone…
Eva has discovered that she has been both blessed and cursed with powers beyond her comprehension. With a destiny to fulfill, she cannot escape the beings who will stop at nothing to destroy her.
Now, in “Scarlet Rain,” the Nosoi spirits of plague have been unleashed on the Mortal Realm, releasing a pandemic as clever and adaptable as it is insidious. Alek and Eva must capture and banish the Nosoi back to their Underworld prison but Eva has yet to harness the abilities needed to defeat such a powerful enemy, and Alek sustains catastrophic wounds in the attempt. They must rely on detective James Graham, and Eva s best friend Bridget, if they are to even slow down the plague. But can mere mortals come through in the face of such overwhelming peril?”

 

Review:

Scarlet Rain by Kristin Cast is the 2nd book in her The Escaped series.  This series is a blend of fantasy and mythology revolving around the Mortal Realm (human kind) and the underground (hell or in this case Tartarus).  In Amber Smoke, we met Alek, the immortal warrior born to the three Furies who protect those in the Mortal Realm, by overseeing the demons locked in Tartarous. Alek was trained to bring back any one who escapes, to protect the humans, and keep Tartarus safe.  We also met Eva, a human who is destined to become the Oracle.

In Scarlet Rain, terrible demons, The Nosoi, have escaped Tartarus, and humans are being infected by the diseases they are unleashing.  Alek ,who is still recovering from injuries, is sent back to help Eva; as she is still trying to learn how to use her new found powers.  In this mix, is Eva’s best friend, Bridgit and James, the detective who can’t believe what he is seeing.  Together they will try to stop the pandemic and force The Nosoi back to Tartarus.  There is a slow built romance between Alek and Eva, as they work together to stop this evil.  I liked Eva, but felt that Alek was not what I would expect of an immortal warrior.

This story has a good theme, with good characters and villains.  I did have issues with the writing style; though this may be YA, which I have read many, I thought the maturity level was somewhat questionable, at times being very simple.  It did affect my overall enjoyment of the story.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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Turn It Up (The Detroit Love Duet #2) by Kim Karr-Review & Book Tour

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TURN IT UP (The Detroit Love Duet #2) by Kim Karr-Review and Book Tour

Turn it Up Banner

TURN IT UP
The Detroit Love Duet 32
by Kim Karr
Release Date : May 16, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romantic suspense

Turn it Up

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

About the book: Release Date May 16, 2016

Follow Jasper Storm and Charlotte Lane as their epic love story continues to heat up the pages in this childhood friends to lovers romance that began in Set the Pace.

Charlotte Lane was the tomboy who lived next door.
Eyes the color of the summer sky.
Mounds of curly blond hair.
A little bit of sassy and a whole lot of sweet.
She was my best friend. My confidant. My salvation.

But when circumstances tore us apart, it put more than just miles between us. I hated her. Blamed her for my worst nightmare. And I never wanted to see her again.

Then one wrong turn brought her back into my life and now she’s under my skin. In the midst of all the chaos surrounding us, she’s what’s changing me. Practically bringing me to my knees. Driving me to want to be a better man.

But nothing is ever easy.

And as our worlds begin to crumble…so do we.

Our bond withstood the test of time, but when the future brings the unexpected, it will either draw us closer or tear us apart.

Can we weather the storm?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: TURN IT UP is the second installment in Kim Karr’s contemporary, adult THE DETROIT LOVE erotic, romance series duet. This is the continuing story and second chance romance for automotive designer/businessman Jasper Storm, and journalist Charlotte Lane. TURN IT UP cannot be read as a stand alone as the story line continues upon the events in book one SET THE PACE which ended on a cliffhanger.

NOTE: If you have not read SET THE PACE there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from alternating first person points of view (Jasper and Charlotte) TURN IT UP picks up immediately upon the events of Set of the Pace. Jasper has been charged with murders of two people with close connections to Jasper and his past, and Charlotte remains in hospital following a vicious attack. What ensues is the search for the truth about what happened years before and the connection to present day events. As the story line builds and the date draws near for Storm Motors to acquire an important piece of land, Jasper’s business partners-Will Fleming, Jake Crown and Drew Kates are blindsided by sins from their past. Someone is desperate to destroy the partner’s reputations, while placing Jasper and Charlotte in the direct line of fire.

TURN IT UP immediately throws the reader head first into the action and drama, slows down throughout the building story as Jasper and Charlotte’s relationship becomes more serious; and the partners find themselves in struggling relationships of their own. I am hoping for some future story lines about Will, Jake and Drew. The final chapters reveal the truth, the people responsible, and the connections to the past.

The epilogue fast forwards the story line approximately eleven years where we catch a glimpse into Jasper and Charlotte’s future. I am hoping Kim returns to Detroit and offers up a story line for each of Jasper’s business partners.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the city of Detroit, Michigan. As the city struggles with poverty, corruption and crime, so too do the people who make Detroit their home.

TURN IT UP is a story about friendship and love; about finding one another after years of secrets and lies; about revealing the truth. The premise is entertaining and enjoyable; the characters are colorful, animated and intense; the romance is seductive and provocative. TURN IT UP blends mystery and suspense into a romance story line where two people reconnect following years apart.

Copy supplied by the tour operator.

Reviewed by Sandy

Turn it Up teaser

excerpt

WARNING: The excerpt contains graphic content and is intended for readers 18+

Jasper Storm
What kind of person willingly drives a thirty-six-foot racing machine at breakneck speed through ten-foot waves?
The kind that isn’t put off by the possibility of smashing his nose against the steering wheel if he has to come to an abrupt stop when racing around the track—that’s who.
Today though, Lake St. Clair tops out with uninhibiting two-foot waves at the most, and my speed is tempered by the amount of passengers on board.
Classic Beatles is playing from the speakers on deck. Drew is leaning back in the cushions of the wraparound benches behind me with a beer in his hand. Jake and Shannon are sitting up in the sun loungers on the bow, both also with brews in hand.
Sitting at the helm, Charlotte is standing next to me in a simple black bikini that shows so much skin it is driving me crazy, her mounds of blond curls blowing in the wind making my fingers itch to run through them, and her sunglasses preventing me from seeing her blue eyes. I wrap my arm around her and guide her to stand in front of me. “You take the wheel.”
“I haven’t driven a boat in years.”
Standing, I pull her even closer. My board shorts feeling tighter by the second. “It’s like riding a bike.”
Looking over her shoulder at me, she gives me a quick kiss on the cheek. “I’ll give it a try,” she says.
Just that slight touch of her lips ignites a fire that starts to flame through my veins. When she takes the wheel, my body is ablaze. Unable to keep my hands off her, I compromise my need to touch her by covering my hands over hers. The cast prohibiting me from making the full connection I’m craving. I hate that she still bears the mark of her attack. I shove that thought away.
It’s a beautiful day, sunny as fuck and not a cloud in sight. The wind has picked up a little the further out we go, and when the softness of her hair brushes against my neck, it sends a shiver racing down my spine.
Taking a seat in the captain’s chair, I pull her onto my lap. The slight curves of her body fit me perfectly. Unable to compromise any longer, discreetly, my hands roam her body. Sliding down her thighs, up her arms, tucking under the small fabric at her hips. I can’t help myself.
Ten minutes or so goes by as we pass over the water like it’s a sheet of glass. I kiss her—her neck, her throat, her jaw. Take a little nip at her shoulder and then soothe it with my tongue.
Concentrating on driving, I’m surprised when she unexpectedly tips her head back so we can kiss.
The instant douse of arousal I feel is unlike that from the small flirtatious moves I’ve been making. This is full-out sexuality. Our lips meet, softly, gingerly. She’s sitting on my thigh, and her ass is against my cock. She shifts a little and I groan softly against the wet slide of her tongue, and all the muscles in my body knot in sweet tension. The fire in my veins bursts into flames from the slight friction, and all I want is more. The pull and push of the connection we share seems to be growing stronger every time we’re together.
Unlatching her lips from mine, she turns back and focuses on the open water.
She feels it too.
The tightening in my cock, the rapid beat of my pulse, and the taste of her left on my tongue puts me into a state of overdrive. I hold onto her fingers, squeeze them, press my naked chest to her bare back, and try to temper my need for her.
Taking what I can, I then inhale a deep breath. Unable to calm the storm raging inside me, I know I have to take action. This isn’t a storm of conflict, this is one of pure male need. “You have to stand up,” I murmur into her ear.
Again, she tips her head back. “Why?”
“You know why.”
The little vixen shifts a little more and grinds a little harder against my cock.
“Behave,” I growl and quickly stand up, bringing her with me, and then I ease up on the throttle and put the cabin cruiser in neutral.
“What’s going on? Jake asks.
I switch the engine off. “Taking a quick dip,” I tell him as I narrow my eyes at Charlotte.
She shrugs all innocent like.
“Remind me to spank you later,” I whisper in her ear.
Surprisingly, I see a thrill in her eyes.
Waggling my brows at her, my little problem is only growing, so I quickly hop up to the side of the boat and dive into the lake. The water is fucking freezing out this far and just what I need. For now anyway.
Splash. Splash.

About The Author

Kim Karr 2I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

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Too Hot To Handle (Romancing the Clarksons #1) by Tessa Bailey-Review & Book Tour

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TOO HOT TO HANDLE (Romancing the Clarksons #1) by Tessa Bailey-Review and Book Tour

Too Hot to Handle Banner

TOO HOT TO HANDLE
Romancing the Clarksons #1
by Tessa Bailey
Release Date: May 17, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic,romance

Too Hot To Handle

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 17, 2016

When rescue looks like a whole lot of trouble . . .

The road trip was definitely a bad idea. Having already flambéed her culinary career beyond recognition, Rita Clarkson is now stranded in God-Knows-Where, New Mexico, with a busted-ass car and her three temperamental siblings, who she hasn’t seen in years. When rescue shows up—six-feet-plus of hot, charming sex on a motorcycle—Rita’s pretty certain she’s gone from the frying pan right into the fire . . .

Jasper Ellis has a bad boy reputation in this town, and he loathes it. The moment he sees Rita, though, Jasper knows he’s about to be sorely tempted. There’s something real between them. Something raw. And Jasper has only a few days to show Rita that he isn’t just for tonight—he’s forever.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: TOO HOT TO HANDLE is the first installment in Tessa Bailey’s contemporary, adult ROMANCING THE CLARKSONS erotic, romance series focusing on the four Clarkson siblings. This is chef Rita Clarkson, and bar/restaurant owner Jasper Ellis’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Jasper and Rita) TOO HOT TO HANDLE follows the Clarkson siblings-Rita, Aaron, Peggy and Belmont as they take off on a cross country adventure. One year earlier, following their mother’s death, Rita Clarkson took over the family restaurant, but a fire destroyed everything they had built. It was then that Rita produced their mother’s journal asking that her children seek out what is important in their lives, and thusly the cross country trek began. When the car in which they were driving breaks down near a small New Mexico town, Rita will come face to face with her future-restaurant and bar owner Jasper Ellis-a man who has sworn off women for close to two years.

TOO HOT TO HANDLE covers approximately three days in th life, and is an insta-lust/love story line between two people who are unable to let go of the past. Jasper’s history as a bit of a man-whore finds our hero immersed in self-loathing, insecurity and unable to accept that any woman would want him for himself. He is an alpha male with a vulnerable side that is exposed in Rita’s presence. Rita’s low self-esteem comes from a series of mistakes and failures, and rejection by Jasper adds one more failure to her list of many. The $ex scenes are erotic and intimate. The sexual energy, attraction, and chemistry is palpable. There is plenty of passion (good and bad) between our leading couple.

We are introduced to Rita’s siblings-Aaron, the politician; Peggy the ‘beautiful’ one; and Belmont-a man so caught up in his own mind that no one is aware of what is going on in his life. Aaron’s story will be told next in TOO WILD TO TAME.

The world building focuses on the dysfunctional nature of the estranged sibling’s relationships. It is readily apparent that something happened in the past to destroy what was once a close-knit family but present day sees the siblings as strangers with the same last name.

Tessa Bailey writes a story about family and loss. She will captivate your imagination as four siblings struggle to communicate, to get along, to cooperate with the smallest of ventures. The premise is entertaining; the characters are likeable and colorful; the romance is fated and heartwarming.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

 

He dipped down until they were nose to nose, saw the rush of thought going on behind her eyes. It was pretty damn breathtaking up close. “Mind cluing me in as to what’s going on in there?”
“If—if—we need to stay overnight—”
“You will.”
“—then I might see you at the bar.” She wedged a hand between them and separated their bodies. “I’d rather see someone’s worst than their best. Saves time.”
Jasper heard the tow truck pulling into the garage parking lot and cursed. Not even remotely confident that his first attempt at polite conversation with an available woman had been successful, Jasper walked her backward until they were hidden behind a rusted pay phone. She’d broken away from his touch, so he was careful to respect that. He dropped his mouth to an inch above hers and said, low, “I didn’t get near enough time with you, Rita. If you don’t show up tonight, don’t be surprised if I come looking.” He laid his palms against the warm building, above her head, watched her gaze dip to his stomach. His lap. “And if I have to come looking, I’ll be twice as determined to get that kiss.”
Her head came up. “W-what kiss?”
Jasper lowered his mouth until their lips brushed. He listened to her breath accelerate, watched her wet her lips. “The one I want to give you right now.” He allowed himself to linger another few seconds, then, with the effort of ten oxen, Jasper stepped back. “Tonight, beautiful.”
On his way to his bike, Jasper tipped his hat at Rita’s gaping siblings

 

 

about the author

Tessa BaileyTessa Bailey is originally from Carlsbad, California. The day after high
school graduation, she packed her yearbook, ripped jeans and laptop, driving cross-country to New York City in under four days.

Her most valuable life experiences were learned thereafter while waitressing at K-Dees, a Manhattan pub owned by her uncle. Inside those four walls, she met her husband, best friend and discovered the magic of classic rock, managing to put herself through Kingsborough Community College and the English program at Pace University at the same time. Several stunted attempts to enter the work force as a journalist followed, but romance writing continued to demand her attention.

She now lives in Long Island, New York with her husband of eight years and four-year-old daughter. Although she is severely sleep-deprived, she is incredibly happy to be living her dream of writing about people falling in love.

Connect with Tessa Bailey

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Rebel Warrior (Medieval Warriors #3) by Regan Walker-Review and Guest Post

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Rebel Warrior (Medieval Warriors #3) by Regan Walker-Review and Guest Post

Rebel Warrior

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /Amazon.uk

About the book: Release Date May 17, 2016

When your destiny lies far from where you began …

Scotland 1072

The Norman Conqueror robbed Steinar of Talisand of his noble father and his lands, forcing him to flee to Scotland while still recovering from a devastating wound. At the royal court, Steinar becomes scribe to the unlettered King of Scots while secretly regaining his skill with a sword.

The first time Steinar glimpses the flame-haired maiden, Catrìona of the Vale of Leven, he is drawn to her spirited beauty. She does not fit among the ladies who serve the devout queen. Not pious, not obedient and not given to stitchery, the firebrand flies a falcon! Though Catrìona captures Steinar’s attention, he is only a scribe and she is promised to another.

Catrìona has come to Malcolm’s court wounded in spirit from the vicious attack on her home by Northmen who slayed her parents and her people. But that is not all she will suffer. The man she thought to wed will soon betray her.

When all is lost, what hope is there for love? Can a broken heart be mended? Can a damaged soul be healed?

Review:

Rebel Warrior begins with Catriona’s home being attacked and her beloved parents being murdered as she and Angus, her trusted guard, make their way home from a day of flying her falcon. Those whom the attackers didn’t kill, they took as prisoners. Thankfully, her brother was away as well and was spared. They were taken in by their uncle until the time came for Catriona and her cousin, Fia, to become ladies of the Queen’s court. Catriona was not very enthusiastic when it came to her duties at court, but soon fell into a routine and discovered that Queen Margaret is more than she first thought.

Steinar had become a valuable member of the King of Scots’ inner circle. He relished his duties, but practiced daily trying to regain his warrior’s body and strength from a wound that could have very well killed him. Once he sees Catriona, he is immediately drawn to her and is determined to get to know her. He soon discovers that she is betrothed to another, but can’t help his feelings for her.

Catriona can’t help but notice Steinar and is drawn to him as well. She steadfastly stays the course her father had laid out before her though. However, once she was betrayed by the one she was to marry, she immerses herself into a project helping Queen Margaret.

However, when King Malcolm decides to meet war head on, he and his men head out, leaving Queen Margaret and her court worried and anxious. It just so happens that Catriona is not the only one smitten with one of their King’s guards, so they do the only thing they know to do. Pray. What transpires will leaving you turning the pages and holding your breath at the same time.

Regan Walker has once again written a story like no other. Rebel Warrior is, without a doubt, one of the most well written stories I’ve ever read, by any author. The storytelling, as well as the world building, is phenomenal. I know I repeat myself when I review one of her books, but the weaving of actual historical events in with the story she tells is awe inspiring. As Walker starts to weave her tale, you will swear you can hear the clamor, whether in the dining hall, or in the courtyard. Catriona is a wonderfully strong and determined young woman. Even after witnessing the destruction of her own home, she stays true to the path that her beloved father had set in motion. Steiner is wonderful in his own right. Strong, intelligent and deeply loyal, he is the perfect match for Catriona. However, it is Catriona’s beautiful friendship that develops with Queen Margaret, that is truly life changing. Margaret not only gives Catriona a sense of purpose, but helps restore her faith. A faith that she had been struggling with ever since she was forced from her home. The secondary characters are well written as well, and I hope to read more about them in the next installment. Rebel Warrior is truly one of the most heartfelt and inspirational things I’ve read in years. The romance that develops between the two main characters is very touching, but it is Catriona’s renewed faith that will have you cheering and shedding a few tears. If you’ve not ready anything by Regan Walker, I will tell you once again…..it is truly your loss. Very well done Regan Walker! Very, very, very well done.

Series Reading Order and Vickie’s Previous Reviews
The Red Wolf’s Prize
Rogue Knight
Rebel Warrior

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Vickie M

Guest post

Reflecting Characters’ Faith Without Making the Romance Inspirational
by Regan Walker

It seems to me that historical romance authors who strive to accurately portray the era in which they set their stories should consider the element of faith, both in the culture of the time and their characters’ lives. I write mainline Georgian, Regency and Medieval novels and, in each case, I have found the historical setting often requires me to add this aspect to my characters. Not to do so would be to give the reader an inaccurate picture of the times in which my characters live.

For example, in my newest novel, Rebel Warrior, the hero and heroine meet in the court of King Malcolm Canmore in 11th century Scotland. The heroine, who has just suffered a devastating loss, becomes a lady in waiting to the devout Queen Margaret. I could hardly present Margaret any other way since she was a real historic figure about whom we know much. And her ladies in waiting would be expected to join her in prayer and good deeds, yet how would a heroine who doubted God’s love serve such a queen? To include this element does not mean the story is not full of action, sexual tension and romance, or that there isn’t a love scene, which there is.

Queen Margaret feeds the orphans

In my Regency romances, you might encounter the heroine going to church with her friends, especially on Christmas, as in The Holly and the Thistle or The Twelfth Night Wager. It was just something they did in the Regency era as a matter of course. The Church of England was very important to their lives.

Jane Austen wrote about the world of the Anglican clergy, which she knew well, her father being the Reverend George Austen. Often, she featured clerics as characters, sometimes favorably (Edmund in Mansfield Park) and sometimes unfavorably (Mr. Collins in Pride and Prejudice).

Edmund Bertram in Mansfield Park

In the medieval era, one daughter or son in a family might be expected to serve the church, which made it terribly inconvenient should that character fall in love.

In Georgian England, it was the Protestant Church of England vs. the Catholics and sometimes a story must reflect it. In my novel To Tame the Wind, which begins in France with a Catholic heroine and ends with her being married to a Protestant Englishman by the Anglican Bishop of London, I could hardly fail to deal with the difficulties their love produced, especially when England was making it near impossible for Catholics to own land, retain a title or even marry. And if you were Irish, as my hero in The Shamrock & The Rose, you had even more issues!

To reflect the characters’ faith is not to make the novels inspirational, that is to say, novels with a decided Christian message. Rather, it is merely presenting the culture in which my characters live and love. And I think the stories are richer for it.

About the author

Regan WalkerRegan Walker is a #1 bestselling, multi-published author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romance. She has been a featured author on USA TODAY’s HEA blog three times and twice nominated for the prestigious RONE award (her novel, The Red Wolf’s Prize is a finalist for 2015). Regan Walker writes historically authentic novels with real history and real historic figures. She wants her readers to experience history, adventure and love.

Her work as a lawyer in private practice and then serving at high levels of government have given her a love of international travel and a feel for the demands of the “Crown”. Hence her romance novels often involve a demanding sovereign who taps his subjects for “special assignments.”

Regan lives in San Diego with her golden retriever, Link, who she says inspires her every day to relax and smell the roses.

Twitter: @RegansReview (https://twitter.com/RegansReview)
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The Bad Boy’s Baby (Hope Springs 3) by Cindi Madsen-a review

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THE BAD BOY’S BABY (Hope Springs #3) by Cindi Madsen-a review

The Bad Boy's Baby

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 16, 2016

There are certain words that have always described Cam Brantley: Town bad boy. Soldier. Protector. But never, ever dad. Until he returns home from his latest military tour to discover the girl he had one smoking-hot night with is now mom to the adorable two-year-old Zoey. Who has his eyes.

Plenty of words could describe Emma Walker these days. Mom, dutiful granddaughter, budding designer, the town’s golden child. But when her longtime crush Cam Brantley comes back to town, she knows the perfect word to describe herself: screwed.

Cam and Emma are both shocked to discover he truly wants Zoey in his life. But Cam’s not sure he’s ready to be a dad, and Emma can’t gamble her daughter on maybes. As the long-simmering heat between Cam and Emma reaches a boiling point, he’ll have to work past his demons in order to be the man both girls need.

Daddy duty might be his toughest mission yet…

••••••••••

REVIEW: THE BAD BOY’S BABY is the third installment in Cindi Madsen’s contemporary, adult HOPE SPRINGS romance series focusing on the people of Hope Springs . This is retired soldier Cam Brantley, and single mother/designer Emma Walker’s story line. THE BAD BOY’S BABY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Cam is Heath’s brother whom we met in book two-Crazy for the Competition.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Cam and Emma) THE BAD BOY’S BABY is a story of second chances for our leading couple. Following a one night stand with Emma three years earlier, Cam was deployed to the Middle East and never knew that the town to which he would return held a few more surprises than when he had left.

Emma was the high school nerd; the smart girl who had a crush on the town bad boy Cam Brantley-a young man who barely knew that Emma ever existed. A planned seduction of the man of her dreams results in an unplanned pregnancy and the destruction of her future dreams. When Cam returns to Hope Springs Emma knows it is time to reveal the truth about her daughter’s parentage considering she (Emma) and Cam would be working together. The story line follows the building relationship between Cam and Emma, as well as between Cam and the daughter he never knew. There is someone else vying for Emma’s affection which sets off a series of events that throw Cam into a meltdown.

THE BAD BOY’S BABY is a sweet, romantic read about two people thrown together by a one-night stand. There are no graphic sexual situations; all $ex is implied and fades to black. Due to his dysfunctional family at home Cam never wanted to have children but meeting Zoey, the little girl with blonde curls and her father’s eyes, finds our hero falling in love with both mother and daughter. Most of the previous story line couples and characters play secondary and supporting roles. Cam and Heath’s father is trying his best to make up for the sins of his past but sometimes the memories are too hard to overcome.

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

About the Author yellow

Cindi MadsenFollow Cindi: Goodreads / Website Twitter / Facebook

Cindi Madsen is a USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance and young adult novels. She sits at her computer every chance she gets, plotting revising, and falling in love with her characters. Sometimes it makes her a crazy person. Without it, she’d be even crazier. She has way too many shoes, but can always find a reason to buy a new pretty pair, especially if they’re sparkly, colorful, or super tall. She loves music, dancing, and wishes summer lasted all year long. She lives in Colorado (where summer is most definitely NOT all year long) with her husband and three children.

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The Debt by Tyler King-Review and Book Tour

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THE DEBT by Tyler King-Review and Book Tour

THE DEBT BLOG BANNER

THE DEBT
by Tyler King
Genre:new adult, contemporary, romance
Release Date: May 10, 2016

The Debt

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 10, 2016

Hadley saved my life . . . and I ruined hers

Hadley’s my best friend. We share a house, our friends, a life. She knows all my secrets . . . except one. My desperate need for her is inked on my body, it’s the best I can do. But Hadley needs to hear the words . . .

Growing up as foster kids, Hadley made me feel whole-sane. And what did I do? I destroyed our chance to be together. I ran out on Hadley when I should have stayed, and something broke between us. Now I’ll do anything to fix it.

I’ll never leave her again. I won’t ever let her feel afraid again. But the more I try to protect her from my pain, the more I just make things worse. I’m terrified that if I tell her everything, she’ll never forgive me. I’m even more terrified that it may be too late to make her mine. I have to try to give her what she needs . . . it’s a debt I’m determined to repay.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE DEBT is a stand alone, friends to lovers, new adult, romance story line by first time author Tyler King. This is music prodigy Josh MacKay, and artist Hadley Mitchell’s story of dark demons, broken childhoods, and never quite letting go of the past.

Told from first person point of view (Josh MacKay) using flashbacks, memories, self-examination and present day, THE DEBT looks at two lost souls whose earlier years were fraught with abuse, neglect, loss, and the foster care system that failed two children and destroyed their lives. Josh is a music prodigy but events from his past have caused Josh to turn in another direction finding solace in his friendship and love with Hadley Mitchell-who at five years of age-saved Josh when no one else cared enough to listen.

THE DEBT follows the bruised and battered relationship between Josh and Hadley-a relationship founded on a kindred friendship brought about by circumstance and loss. At times, both Josh and Hadley’s issues engulfed the story in anxiety and stress. Help was but a phone call away but these two were reluctant to reveal their darkest secrets and lies.

We are introduced to Josh’s ‘Mad Electro’ band mates-Corey, Trey, and Scott. While Josh and Hadley’s home life continues to fail, Mad Electro find themselves falling apart. Dr. Simon MacKay, Josh’s adoptive father, is a strong presence in the life of our leading couple. Andre’s friendship with Hadley begins to build a wall between Hadley and Josh.

THE DEBT is a story line that looks at a number of emotional and psychological disorders caused by abuse, neglect and PTSD. There are moments of anguish, torment, anger and heartbreak. The story line elements may be triggers for some readers so be warned if you are sensitive to the subject matter.

As mentioned earlier, THE DEBT follows several different time lines, flashing back and forth between the present and the past but all from our hero’s point of view. As Josh MacKay recounts his life and reveals the demons, life throws another curve ball into our hero’s life. The premise is tragic and heartbreaking, impassioned and encouraging. The characters are intense and passionate; the romance is intimate, revealing and hopeful.

Copy supplied by the tour operator.

Reviewed by Sandy

 

About the author

Tyler King was born and raised in Orlando, Florida and graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Creative Writing. As a journalist, her work has appeared in Orlando magazine and Orlando Business Journal, among other publications. She is a proud army spouse currently living in Virginia with her husband.

Connect with Tyler:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tyleraking/?fref=ts
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tyleraking
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14840562.Tyler_King
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1rliEEA
Website: http://tyleraking.com

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Lost and Gone Forever by Alex Grecian – Review & Giveaway

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Lost and Gone Forever by Alex Grecian – Review & Giveaway

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LOST AND GONE FOREVER
Scotland Yard’s Murder Squad #5
by Alex Grecian
Release Date: May 17, 2016
Genre: murder, mystery

Lost and Gone ForeverAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
Many changes have happened to the Murder Squad. Rash actions have cost Sergeant Nevil Hammersmith his job, and in response he has set up his own private detective agency. Inspector Walter Day has been missing for a year, and no one knows where he is—though there is a strong suspicion that Saucy Jack has him. Hammersmith has made finding Day his primary case, and he has company—a pair of bounty hunters, a man and a woman. It is only gradually that he has come to realize that they are not what they seem . . .

 

Review:

Lost and Gone Forever by Alex Grecian is the 5th book in his Scotland Yard’s Murder Squad series.  I have not read the earlier books in this series, and it did read somewhat well as a standalone. However, I was at a disadvantage not knowing the characters, and what had happened in previous books. Because of this, if I was rating the story, I would not give it the proper rating it probably would deserve. I will recommend that if you decide to read this series, start with the first book.

Nevil Hammersmith, a sergeant on Scotland Yard’s Murder Squad,  left his job at the end of the last book to open a detective agency.  Nevil’s only client was Claire Day, who is the wife of Walter Day, a police inspector who has been missing for a year.  This was the main reason Nevil is no longer with Scotland Yard, as he refuses to give up on Walter, spending all his spare time trying to find him.  It is suspected that Saucy Jack (Jack the Ripper), has kidnapped Walter.

The story does start early on with Walter Day waking up in his cell, and finding the door open.  Walter manages to escape, or did Jack purposely leave the door open?  After a year in captivity, Walter is not himself.  He remembers little of who he is, and only knows and fears Jack.  He slowly begins to find things in town, including learning from young boys how to make money in the street, a lady whom he will begin to work for, and eventually Jack, who encourages him to go back home.  But Walter is afraid to go home, as he doesn’t remember his wife or anyone.

Jack is still a killer, but can be very charming. He has an ulterior motive, which he wants Walter to help him with.  Walter doesn’t know this, but Jack has left something for him that will flash his memory. 

While Walter continues to live quietly in hiding, Nevil is trying to find his friend, and soon some sightings of Walter will encourage him and Claire to keep looking.  Nevil’s assistant, Hattie works on other cases to help take in some money to the agency.  It is Hattie, working on her own, who will find a dead client that will be another victim of Jack the Ripper, bringing her into Nevil’s case.  There is also the addition of a weird couple that will prove dangerous to all those involved with looking for Walter and Jack. 

There are many characters in this book, as Grecian’s story moves at along at a steady pace, and also gives us a nice picture about those characters, who have been in the previous books.  Without that I might have been lost.  What follows is an interesting, and at times exciting story that will have some twists, as we race to the tense finish. I did enjoy this book, but did find myself a bit confused with the different characters being part of this overall story.  If you like a mystery thriller, in old time Victorian England and with Scotland Yard, Jack the Ripper as the background, you will enjoy this book.  Once again, it is best if you start from the beginning.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Giveaway

Alex’s publisher is offering a paper copy of the THE HARVEST MAN to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from May 17 – 20, 2016

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The Reverse of Perfection by Christi Barth – a Review

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The Reverse of Perfection by Christi Barth – a Review

 

The Reverse of PerfectionAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Dylan Royce, ex-teen pop star, needs a sexy image makeover. His first adult solo album came out under his perfect, white-washed persona and tanked. Joining a band equally famous for their music and their between-the-sheets escapades is only the start. He needs to get raunchy. Sleep with a different girl every night. But there’s only one woman he wants, and she still sees him as a goody two-shoes boy-bander.

Ariel Watson is the publicist in charge of turning Dylan into the sex-god every woman dreams of doing. Frankly, she doesn’t see the appeal. Until one hot kiss changes her mind. Now she wants to keep him for herself–without losing her job. Or losing Dylan the legions of drooling fans she’s supposed to be building for him.

Turning bad got Dylan the woman of his dreams. But how will he choose between her…or his career catapulting him back to superstar status?

 

Review:

The Reverse of Perfection by Christi Barth is the 2nd book in her Bad Decisions series.  I am a fan of Christi, as she does wonderful pure romances in all her series, as well as creating wonderful characters.  Having read the first book in this series, The Opposite of Right, I knew I would enjoy this new story.

Dylan Royce is our hero, who is a teen pop idol, whose career is slowly slowing down as he is no longer a teenager.  His manager wants Dylan to do a makeover promoting him as a sex magnet.  The manager gets Dylan a short stint with a top band that is known for their wild escapades, which will give Dylan the exposure of changing his image.

Enter Ariel Watson, our heroine, who is the sister of Riptide’s band leader, as well as a publicist.   Ariel is asked to help promote and change Dylan’s image. At first, all she sees is the teen idol, who still dresses the same, and isn’t sure she wants to accept this.  Dylan had met Ariel years before, and has dreamed of her all this time.  He sets out to prove to her that he is not the teenage idol, bit is in fact a sexy bad boy hidden under those clothes.  When Dylan tries to prove his point by giving Ariel a steamy kiss, she accepts the job.  It is up to her to change his image to the public, and keep herself away from becoming involved.

What follows is a sweet and sexy story, with a couple that we fall for right away.  I loved Dylan and Ariel together.  Of course there will be obstacles that will threaten their relationship, especially when the public begins to see Dylan in another light.  Rather than tell too much more, I suggest you read this fun sexy romance, get to meet all the other band members and enjoy the music background theme.  Christi Barth had created another wonderful story that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

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