Monthly Archives: June 2016

Uncovering Camila (Wildflowers #3) by Vivian Winslow-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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Uncovering Camila (Wildflowers #3) by Vivian Winslow-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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UNCOVERING CAMILA
Wildflowers #3
by Vivian Winslow
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: June 27, 2016

Uncovering Camila

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /

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Camila Cohen is a highly ambitious and driven third-year NYU law student who works as a part-time bartender to help pay her way through school. She prefers no-strings attached relationships, afraid that anything serious could get in the way of her goals. But when chef Eliseo Perez ditches her for a job in Miami, she realizes even a casual arrangement can leave you feeling burned. Just as Camila’s close to accepting a position at the high-powered law firm of Sullivan & Moore (more appropriately known by its initials, S & M), her uncle Arthur, the head of the Cohen Real Estate dynasty, makes a proposal that compels Camila to question the career path she’d always assumed would be right for her. As she attempts to balance her busy final year of law school with her bartending job, what should have been a random Tinder date for a hot hook-up leads to something unexpected. Meeting the incredibly brilliant and handsome Marshall James forces Camila to face her greatest fears and realize that creating a life for herself means making decisions that could potentially hurt the ones she loves.

REVIEW

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

One thing I really LOVE about being a reviewer here at The Reading Cafe is experiencing authors bloom in their personal art. I have reviewed Vivian Winslow many times now, and I have seen a distinct positive change in her writing style. She has always been a great author to me, but when I pick up one of her books, it’s almost like she has author “tells”. Through these “tells” I can say she has bloomed. It’s not reflective of her story as it is her writing style. Maybe that sounds strange, and I have totally confused you (my mind can be a real confusing place sometimes LOL), it’s just something that hit me as I was enjoying this particular book of hers.

Uncovering Camila by Vivian Winslow is the third book in her “Wildflower” series. You can read this as a stand alone if you choose, but I have to say, one of these “tells” that I am talking about it is Vivian’s way of weaving characters from from previous stories into her current one. She is VERY GOOD at this, and when you feel invested in not just the main characters, but in the secondary characters as well, it gives you a richer experience of the story being told. Uncovering Camila revolves around Camila Cohen and Marshall James.

We experienced Camila getting her heart broken in a previous book, so it’s believable when we discover that Camila has sworn off relationships and wants to concentrate on her law degree and her bartending job. She has been hurt, is guarded, has had to work very hard to get where she because nothing comes easy to her .. quite frankly she is one tough cookie! One tough cookie who is about to have her world rocked by a well intending cousin.

Marshall is smexy, a lawyer, from a wealthy family, strong in ambition but not so much that he is annoying about it. He is also smexy .. I know I said it again, but it’s because he really really is! LOL Marshall is ready for a progressive step in life, and has agreed to a blind date with our Camila. Only problem is .. Camila didn’t realize she was on one until she is well and truely on it! BAHAHAHA Loved that!

Marshall proceeds to friend Camila before loving her (class act right there readers) yet when the loving started, WOWEE! Very “telling” of Vivian’s style as well! Both have issues to sort through and Camila suddenly finds herself questioning her choices and has to face making decisions where someone will be hurt. Including herself.

I loved both Camila and Marshall and I believed in this pairing. It was a mature pairing, and one that was “sweet” before it was “hot”. I can go on about angst in the story, but you can read that for yourself. While it was present, it was the relationship of these two that took front seat for me! My only small negative would be it took a little while for this story to get going. I do assure you though, that when it did, it took off from there.

Another great option to read this summer, but I would go the extra step and read Vivian’s other books first. I promise you will enjoy this one all that much more for it!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Uncovering Camila Teaser

excerpt

 

 

“Soooo, the host,” he says. “Obviously single, no kids . . . .”
Camila shrugs. “Someone new to the school. I’m not in any of his classes, so I don’t know much about him.”
“You’re being weird. You’re always about extraneous details, and now you can’t say the man’s name or look at me.”
“What? I’m making you a cocktail.” Camila forces herself to look at Jared.
He regards her suspiciously. “You’re a terrible liar, my friend. I’ll figure out what you’re hiding.”
It takes all of one second when he sees Marshall walk into the apartment.
“Oh my God, it’s Mr. Gucci,” he whispers into Camila’s ear.
“Shut up. This isn’t the time.”
“Oh, it totally is,” he replies and heads into the adjacent kitchen to introduce himself to Marshall.
“Good evening. I’m Jared. I work with Camila over at L,” he says, hinting he recognizes Marshall from the bar that night.
“It’s great of you to come.” Marshall casually extends a hand.
“Remind me of your drink of choice, and I’ll be sure to keep your glass full tonight.”
“Yeah, that’d be great. You know how to mix a Metropolitan?”
The bartender suppresses a smile. “Funny. Camila really enjoys those too. I’ll be right back.”
“You fucked him didn’t you?” Jared wags a finger at his friend.
“How can you tell? You spoke to him all of two minutes.”
“While you hid in here like a scaredy cat. What happened? Buyer’s remorse? Hard to imagine though.” He turns in the direction of the kitchen and shakes his head. “No way. With that mouth, the way he stands, and his posture. He’s definitely good in the sack.”
Camila makes a face. “I didn’t realize he was my Professor.”
“I thought you said you weren’t in any of his classes.”
“I dropped it on the first day when I saw him. But what’s worse. He’s my faculty advisor for Law Review.”
“That’s classic,” Jared laughs out loud. So loud it gets Marshall’s attention. He spots Camila standing by the bar. “Oh, hey C.,” he begins to say then clears his throat. “Camila, I didn’t realize you were here.”
“I came early to help Jared set up,” she says, finishing her drink in one gulp.
“This is worse than my cousin’s bar mitzvah down in Palm Springs,” Jared groans to Camila when she approaches him for another drink.
“It may kill you to hear this, but this is one of the better networking parties I’ve been to,” she replies.
“That guy in the corner talking to your boyfriend looks like my Uncle Mordy.”
Camila slaps his arm. “Shut up already. And that man happens to be the foremost expert in Trusts and Estates in the country. I think Oprah is his client.”
“Seriously, honey. You do not belong with this crowd. You are so downtown cool, and they’re uptown uptight.”
“For your information, I just spoke with a woman who runs a legal aid office in the Bronx. She said her work was ‘rewarding’. How many people ever say that about their jobs?”
“Most teachers, except middle school ones, and saints.” Jared leans on his elbow. “So fine, not all lawyers are like my Uncle Mordy. But most of them are.” He checks his watch. “Cover for me a minute. I’m going to the bathroom.”
“I thought I was paying Jared to work, not you.” Marshall says.
“He’s taking his Union fifteen,” Camila answers wryly.
“I guess I can’t interfere with that. I would hate to get a letter from a union lawyer.” He holds up his glass. “Would you mind? I think I prefer your Metropolitans to his anyway.”
“I told you it’s because I don’t sweeten it. Besides, I could use something to do.”
“You’re not giving up so quickly, I hope. There are plenty of attorneys I can introduce you to.”
“So this was a plan to get me to consider a different line of work.”
“Not a plan as much as a hope. But I know better than to interfere in your life. You know what you want.”
Camila looks up when she hears that last word. “Up until recently I would’ve agreed with you. But I realized that I’ve been confusing need with want. I need a job. I don’t know if I want the one I thought I did.”
Marshall furrows his brow. “That’s a tough one. You want to talk about it?” He looks around at the party. More people have arrived. Students are always game for free alcohol, as he knew they would be. However, if he could, he’d snap his fingers and make them all disappear so he could be alone with Camila.
“Maybe later,” she says vaguely, pouring his drink into a clean glass.
Marshall drops five dollars into a tip jar. “Later then.”

“I’m glad you came tonight,” Camila says as she stacks the shakers and places them into a small box. “It was nice to have a friend around.”
“Students are terrible tippers, but you know I’d do anything for you,” Jared replies. He hooks a cord around the box of alcohol and stands. “At least I got to check out your secret boyfriend.”
Camila slaps his thigh. “Shh. He is not.”
“Oh please. You and Felicity should start a club. You guys can make a SLAM book and write Felicity + Todd and Camila + Marshall on the cover. This is so junior high with your sad, longing faces.” He presses his cheeks down. “A crush on your professor, and a crush on your boss, I swear I am living in the middle of a young adult drama.”
“Oh come on. You said they’re probably sleeping together. That’s not happening here.”
Jared puts a hand on his hip. “You’re lying to me, and you’re lying to yourself. I can see what’s going on. My vision is 20/10.”
“Enough. You’re being weird.”
“Pot, kettle, honey. I’ve known you for seven years, and I’ve never seen you act this strange.”
“But he’s my professor,” she whispers as the catering staff bustle around her, clearing out the dishes. Most of the party has emptied out with the exception of a few lawyers who seem to be friends of Marshall’s.
“No he isn’t. He teaches at the law school where you happen to be a student. I’m not an idiot. That’s gray area at best, but still within acceptable boundaries. And I should know a thing or two about boundaries because I’m always breaking them.” Jared hands her the container with the shakers. “Walk down with me and wait while I get a cab.”

 

About the Author

Vivian WinslowElizabeth Ann Hayes writes Romance under the pen name Vivian Winslow. Elizabeth was born in San Diego, California but has spent most of her adult life as the consummate wanderer. Her nomadic life took her abroad to Paris, Madrid, London, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, and São Paulo. After eleven moves across four continents over a span of seventeen years, her journey brought her back to New York City in 2011 where, despite the chaotic pace, she’s managed to make it home for herself and her family.

Since 2014, Elizabeth has published nine novellas in her Gilded Flower Trilogies as well as two installments of Wildflowers, a New Adult series of standalone novels. These contemporary romance books are female-driven with strong, beautiful and intelligent women as well as diverse characters, reflecting her own multi-cultural heritage.

Social Links:

Website: http://www.vivianwinslow.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/vivianwinslowauthor
Twitter – https://twitter.com/VivWinslow
Pinterest – http://www.pinterest.com/VivWinslow/
Amazon page – http://amzn.to/1p4dE3N
Google+ – https://plus.google.com/u/0/+VivianWinslow760/posts
Instagram – https://instagram.com/vivwinslow
Tumblr – http://vivwinslow.tumblr.com
Medium – https://medium.com/search?q=vivian%20winslow
Spotify – https://play.spotify.com/user/vivwinslow

Spotify playlist for Uncovering Camila
https://open.spotify.com/user/vivwinslow/playlist/6Aeao0ntFKPcoAvqQfV5jR

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Fatal Promise by Dianna Love – a Review

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Fatal Promise by Dianna Love – a Review

 

Fatal Promise
Slye Temp series – Book #6
by Dianna Love
Release Date: June 28, 2016

Fatal PromiseAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo /   BAM

Description:
New York Times Bestseller Dianna Love wraps up the exciting Slye Temp romantic thriller series with FATAL PROMISE, Gage and Sabrina’s story that readers have been asking for since the beginning.

When a rogue CIA assassin threatens her Slye Agency family, Sabrina goes after him before he can harm another person on her team. She’s armed, dangerous and in no mood to take prisoners, but the lead she follows exposes the tip of a deadly international threat and adds a new name to the rogue agent’s hit list… Gage, Sabrina’s former CIA handler–and lover.

Gage has waged war on Sabrina’s emotional walls over the past year after she returned from being betrayed during a bloody mission that left her suspicious of everyone in the agency, starting with him. There’s a contract on her head, but keeping Sabrina safe until he can terminate the threat is easier said than done. As one of the deadliest operatives he’s ever met, Sabrina bends to no one’s will. No woman has ever gotten to him the way she has and he wants her back in his arms, but that isn’t going to happen unless they survive this mission. With only one hope of stopping a megalomaniac from starting a third world war, survival depends upon Gage convincing Sabrina to trust him in every way, including her heart.

*This is the final book in the Slye Temp series, but there will be a new romantic suspense series – HAMR Brotherhood – which will include Slye Temp characters who still have more story to tell.

 

 

Review:

Fatal Promise by Dianna Love is the 6th and final book in her wonderful Slye Temp series.  I have been waiting for a long time to get Sabrina’s story.  I love this series, which is no surprise, as Dianna Love is a master at Romance Suspense.  It is sad that this will end this series, and I will miss all the Slye Temp characters that we have come to love.  However, Dianna promises us a new romance suspense series in the near future, which will include some of the Slye Temp characters.

Sabrina has been in love with Gage for a long time, but she refuses to listen to her heart, as she feels she cannot trust Gage.  Gage loves Sabrina, and does everything in his power to convince her of his love and loyalty.  But each have their own secrets that they must protect.  Will they ever be able to totally trust one another?

Fatal Promise begins when Sabrina decides to go on her own to receive some information on Rikker, the hated villain in this series.  But it is trap, and Sabrina is captured.   Gage goes to the Slye Temp team, to insist that they let him help them rescue Sabrina.  Josh and Dingo, who have been friends with Sabrina since childhood days, do not trust Gage, but they want his resources.  In the rescue attempt, Sabrina is pulled to safety, but Josh is then captured during the rescue.   What follows is an exciting pulse pounding story that will not only bring everyone from the previous books together to help save Josh, as well as to try to prevent a possible world war.  Sabrina and Gage will risk their lives to fight off an evil enemy.  We held our breaths often, wondering if one or both of them would survive.   I loved Sabrina and Gage together, as their chemistry was scorching hot.  Throughout the book, we watch them trying to control their emotions, which continued to pull them toward each other.  We also knew the chances of them ending up together were slim.

Fatal Promise was an exciting action filled suspenseful story that was very well written by Love. The ending was a frantic race to the finish, and I absolutely loved the epilogue that closes this series. If you love romance, suspense, fantastic characters, great couples, bad villains, excitement, and fun, then you need to read this series.

Thank you Dianna Love for giving us an ensemble book, and bringing so many things to a satisfying conclusion.  I look forward to your next Romance Suspense series. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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An Artful Seduction by Tina Gabrielle – a Review

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An Artful Seduction by Tina Gabrielle – a Review

 

An Artful SeductionAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
1815 London

His lust for revenge will be his downfall…

Eliza Somerton has a dangerous secret. As the daughter of the infamous art forger who duped half the ton, she’s rebuilt her life under a new name. But when an old forgery goes up for auction, her father’s enemy, Grayson Montgomery, outbids her and presents her with an unimaginable choice: help him find her father or he’ll ruin her.
For years, Grayson, the Earl of Huntingdon and one of London’s top art critics, has sought justice. His well-laid plans finally come to fruition when he learns of his enemy’s beautiful daughter. But Eliza possesses a sensuality and independent spirit that weakens his resolve, and as the heat between them sizzles, what started as revenge soon blossoms into something sinful…

 

 

Review:

An Artful Seduction begins with Eliza attending an auction with one goal in mind:  buy back piece of forged art that she and her sisters sold when they had nowhere else to turn.  The sisters never thought to see the piece again, but when the piece comes up for auction, Eliza is determined to buy the piece herself so that the forgery will stay hidden.  However, when Grayson Montgomery outbids Eliza, her opportunity is lost.  Or is it?  When Eliza approaches Grayson about buying the painting from him directly, she unknowingly sets into motion a series of events that will change their lives.  Forever.

Grayson soon learns that Eliza is the daughter of the very man he has been hunting and devises a plan that gives her no choice but to go aid him in his quest.  If only she knew what his quest actually was.  As Grayson and Eliza spend more and more time together, he finds himself questioning whether or not he’s doing the right thing by using Eliza to get what he wants.  Once he meets her sisters and sees the close bond they share, he falls even further under her spell, but decides to stay the course to finally get his revenge. 

Eliza figures out what Grayson is really doing, and still goes along with him. She is developing feelings for him as well, but knows there can never be anything between them.  Her father has seen to that by duping so many and leaving them behind before he can be arrested for his crimes.  She’d love to find her father as well, or at least know if he’s dead or alive.  What transpires will leave you jeering and cheering……and turning the pages a little faster.

An Artful Seduction is a wonderfully written tale.  The characters are well written and you will leave the story feeling as you know them.  Eliza is a strong character who has taken care of her sisters since the day her father left them high and dry.  Her sense of loyalty, as well as her determination to make it on her own, will endear her to everyone who reads her story.  Grayson is a bear at first, but you soon learn that he will do anything as well for those he cares about.  The chemistry between the two was palpable and I love the way the author made them both work for a relationship that would be good for all involved.  The secondary characters were well written as well, and I for one cannot wait to read more about them.  If you’re a fan of this genre, there is no way you can go wrong with An Artful Seduction.  Well done, Tina Gabrielle!


Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

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Addicted ( The Outlaws #2) by Elle Kennedy-a review

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ADDICTED ( The Outlaws #2) by Elle Kennedy-a review

Addicted

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2016

Lennox used to live in a paradise on earth with his best friend Jamie, in a place where visitors came and went, allowing their desires to run free. But everything changes when a deadly attack forces them to take up with Connor Mackenzie’s band of Outlaws. Lennox knows Jamie is hung up on someone else, but he’s always believed he’s the man for her—and won’t let her go without a fight.

Even though Jamie is well aware that Lennox is one hot specimen of a man, she refuses to let sex ruin the most important relationship in her life. But when the object of her interest spurns her, she indulges in a little pleasure-filled revenge with her very magnetic, very willing best friend. One thrilling night with Lennox is enough to awaken Jamie’s unexpected desires for him. And now that she’s had a taste, she’s not sure she can ever give him up.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: ADDICTED is the second installment in Elle Kennedy’s adult, post-apocalyptic/dystopian Outlaws erotica, romance series. This is Lennox and Jamie’s story line.

NOTE: CLAIMED contains scenes of M/M/, M/F and M/F/M sexual situations and may not be suitable for all readers.

SOME BACKGROUND: The OUTLAW series by Elle Kennedy focuses on the post-apocalyptic USA where the country is now divided into a number of respective territories without government control. There are various factions of bandits, enforcers, outlaws, and the people from the city. Life on the outside is hard; there are no laws, no law enforcement, and death is often the better option. Several groups of outlaws have banded together in gated communities for protection and control.

Told from several third person points of view ADDICTED is a friends to lovers story that follows Lennox and his best friend Jamie, as well as fellow outlaws Rylan, Pike and Kade, as they are ‘sent’ to another Outlaw camp to train their members for an upcoming war. But Connor is suspicious of the real reason that the other outlaw leader Reese has requested the help, and Connor believes he may be placing his friends in danger when the truth is finally revealed.

Lennox and Jamie have been best friends for most of their lives. Twenty years of watching family die, friends killed, and with only one another for support, Lennox and Jamie joined Connor Mackenzie’s band of Outlaws but now find themselves in a fight to survive. The relationship between our leading couple is one of friendship and love but Lennox has always rebuked Jamie’s advances until the day his jealousy can no longer be contained and he claims Jamie for himself. The $ex scenes are intimate, aggressive and provocative. Jamie is a woman willing to fight for the man that she loves.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of characters including many secondary and supporting roles. With Lennox and Jamie’s visit to Reese’s camp, the introductions are vast; the friendships are varied but not all survive to see another day.

ADDICTED, like the previous installment, is heavily weighted in graphic sexual situations including M/M, M/F/M, M/M/F and M/F material. Public displays of $ex acts are common; group $ex and multiple partners are encouraged but for all intents and purposes, the sexual situations detract from the story line premise. $ex is a commodity; bandits and enforcers use $ex as power and control therefore if you are sensitive to certain sexual situations, this series may not be for you.

Elle Kennedy’s ADDICTED has romance, suspense, action and love. There are moments of heartbreaking loss, emotional fall out, and the realization that you have to give love a try before life takes it all away. The premise is fated and entertaining; the characters are colorful, animated and passionate; the romance is a friends to lover trope filled with hope for the future. The OUTLAWS series is a provocative, erotic and dramatic look at a post-apocalyptic world where life is fleeting and love is shot in the dark.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-CLAIMED

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Under Your Skin by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

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Under Your Skin by Shannyn Schroeder – a Review

 

Under Your SkinAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
Blood Is Thicker Than Ink. . .

Norah O’Malley has been alone for a long time. It’s been ten years since her father and four brothers shipped her off to be raised by her aunt. Seven months since she’s seen the guy who got her pregnant–who still doesn’t know. And it’s two weeks since she came home to Chicago and discovered none of her family wants to talk–or listen.

She never expected to walk into a tattoo shop seven months pregnant and get her socks knocked off by instant attraction. She can’t even see her socks. But Kai Ellis is big and gruff and sexy as hell, and if he has a past, well, so does she. Even more, Kai knows how to listen so that Norah feels just a little less alone . . .

All the chemistry in the world can’t help Norah make her decisions. And no sizzle of desire will make Kai believe in happy endings. But a little time with someone who understands might just change everything . . .

 

 

Review:

Under Your Skin by Shannyn Schroeder is the 1st book in her new For Your Love series. I loved the O’Leary series by Schroeder, and I am happy to say that Under Your Skin is a wonderful start to a new series.  We even get a member of the O’Leary family in this book; Moira O’Leary is dating Jimmy O’Malley, who is the brother of our heroine.

Norah O’Malley is our heroine, who has returned home after 10 years.  Norah had been sent at the age of 12 to live with her aunt, since her father and 4 brothers could not take care of her. Now she is pregnant, and comes home to be with her family, as she decides what to do about her pregnancy.  We meet Norah and her family from the start, giving us a chance to learn about the O’Malley’s.

Norah was a great heroine; sweet, fun, beautiful, independent and determined to live her life the way she wants to.  She decides she needs to get a job, as she is bored with being home.  Visiting her brother Tommy, at his job in a tattoo parlor, Norah meets the boss, Kai, our hero.  

Kai has had a rough childhood, spending much time in gangs, and eventually going to jail.  But he has learned from his past mistakes, and now runs a good business, and determined to keep himself clean.  Norah begins to crush on Kai, but he wants nothing to do with her, as he feels he is unworthy.  With his mother coming home from the hospital, Kai needed someone to take care of her during the day.  When he is desperate, he hires Norah, which will turn into a mistake…..a good mistake.  

A major part of this story was Norah making difficult decisions on what to do about her baby.  The father of her child makes an appearance, and they remain as friends only.  Norah will stand firm that she will do what is best for the baby.  Very nicely written.

This was a very slow build romance, which was also fun watching Norah do all she can to seduce Kai.  It was nice to see Norah become friends with Moira, her first friend since she came home.  I enjoyed meeting all her brothers, with Jimmy and Tommy my favorites.  I look forward to future stories on them all, though there will be no story on Jimmy, since he and Moira had theirs in the O’Leary series (you do need to read that series).  Kai’s mom was also a great character, as she was fun at times. .  I loved Norah, and did like Kai, but his constant refusal to open himself to love was annoying at times.  He had to let go of his past to move forward with Norah.

Under Your Skin was an enjoyable read, great characters and very well written by Shannyn Schroeder.  I suggest you read this book and join the fun when we get more stories on the O’Malleys.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Shadow Rider (Shadow #1) by Christine Feehan-Dual Review and Giveaway

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SHADOW RIDER (Shadow #1) by Christine Feehan-Dual Review and Giveaway

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SHADOW RIDER
Shadow #1
by Christine Feehan
Release Date: June 28,2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal romance

Shadow Rider

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2016

The #1 New York Times bestselling “queen of paranormal romance”* is back with a sexy new series starring a Chicago crime family that hides a dark, mystical secret…

Whether it’s fast cars or fast women, Stefano Ferraro gets what he wants. When he’s not fodder for the paparazzi, he commands Ferraro family businesses—both legitimate and illegitimate.

While their criminal activity is simply a rumor yet to be proven, no one knows the real truth. The Ferraros are a family of shadow riders capable of manipulating light and dark, an ability Stefano thought ran in his family alone—until now…

With little left to her name, Francesca Cappello has come to Chicago in hopes of a new life. She wasn’t expecting to attract the attention of a man with primal hunger in his eyes, driven to claim her as his to protect and to please. And if he discovers her secret, it could ruin her.

••••••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW:

SHADOW RIDER is the first installment in Christine Feehan’s adult, contemporary SHADOW paranormal, romance series focusing on a species that is able to ‘use’ shadows, to move about in secret. This is the head of the Ferraro Family Stefano Ferraro, and Francesca Cappello’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Stefano and Francesa) SHADOW RIDER introduces a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters who are driven to protect Stefano’s mate. Broke and on the run, our heroine, Francesca Cappello, finds herself in Little Italy where her best friend Joanna Masci has offered her a job and a place to stay. Enter Stefano Ferraro, the head of one of Chicago’s most powerful and secretive crime families, and the man who will lose his heart to the new stranger in town.

Stefano and the Ferraro family are ‘shadow riders’; a group of supernatural beings able to manipulate light and dark; able to use shadows to hide in plain sight, or enter a world where vengeance is enforced, and peace is restored. The ‘shadow riders’ carry out that which cannot be controlled by any other means, and Francesca’s appearance is a promise for the future for the entire Ferraro clan. But Francesca is on the run, and her past is about to catch up and seek revenge.

SHADOW RIDER is a detailed story line; an engaging and intriguing tale introducing some of the background and the many members of the Ferraro family. The characters, although numerous (requiring a spreadsheet to keep track) are fascinating, energetic and protective; vibrant, transcendent and powerful.

The attraction between our leading couple is immediate and palpable; the sexual tension is taut and unmistakable but our heroine is unaware of who and what Stefano Ferraro commands. Herein lies my concern with the story: the explanation as to the ‘shadow riders’ is limited, and Francesca’s connection is never completely explained or fleshed out. Francesca is Stefano’s mate-she is the woman ‘made’ for him but her ‘shadow rider’ capability is never discussed or rationalized-let’s hope the next installment clarifies and acknowledges some of the missing information. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and provocative-Stefano’s ‘alpha tendencies’ are not as violent or sexually aggressive as some of Christine Feehan’s other male leads in her previous and past series.

SHADOW RIDER is a magical story about family and love; betrayal and revenge; fate and the future. The premise is imaginative; the characters are heartwarming and intense; the romance is impassioned and electrifying. Congratulations Christine Feehan on a powerful new series with memorable characters and fated loves.

 

••••••••

Barb’s Review:

Shadow Rider by Christine Feehan is the 1st book in her new Shadow series.  Shadow Rider is a different and cool paranormal theme, which takes place in Chicago modern times.  It is a fantastic start to a series that will revolve around the Ferraro family, their business, the town where they live and protect, and their own hidden powers.  The Ferraro family is not your usual crime family, as they run legitimate business, and use their ability to help others in need solve various problems and dispense justice.  Shadow riders have the ability to blend themselves to the shadows wherever they are, making themselves invisible to anyone.  They have been in existence for the Ferraros for centuries, with all members of their families trained to use those abilities.

Stefano Ferraro, our hero, is the leader of the Ferraro family and immediately we learn how powerful, strong and tough he is.  On his way to a meeting, he senses something that calls to him.  Stefano knows everyone in their area that is under the family protection; everyone respects and fears him; though they know he will always watch out for them all.  He sees a young lady walking with one of the local people and follows.  Francesca Capello is our heroine, and she has just arrived in town to get a job with her college roommate’s father.  Francesca is broke, and is running away from a powerful enemy who has destroyed her life.

Stefano abruptly introduces himself to Francesca, makes sure she gets the job and tells her to buy a coat and better shoes, as the weather is bad. He senses her fears, and is determined to find out why. He also knows she is the mate he never thought he would ever find. No matter how much she fears him, he will not let her go.  Early on Stefano would curse a lot, but he cared about the well being of everyone under his protection, including now Francesca.  The Ferraro family, are all loyal and dedicated to each other, especially the older brother who has taken care of them.  They are all powerful and shadow riders, and they take their responsibility to help others seriously.

What follows is a romance that will heat up fast, even if the heroine fights any attraction or attention from Stefano.  But he is very persistent. Despite her determination not to let anyone know the truth of her past, Francesca finds herself slowly falling for Stefano, even when he is annoying dominant in protecting her at all times.  We learn when and how the family uses those powers, usually to help those in dire situations that even the police cannot help.  What a family.  I loved all the Ferraros , they were all hot, including the sister,, and how they protected and loved Francesca, too.  They knew she was destined for Stefano, and they treated her like their sister. 

This was also a captivating & exciting story, as Francesca’s past comes back to haunt her, and she tries to run away to protect her newfound family.  But no matter how powerful the enemy is, the Ferraros will always protect their own.  I loved loved the exciting climax when Francesca’s life is in danger and out of the shadows will come her saviors.   Fantastic!

Christine Feehan has a fabulous start to a series that I cannot wait to continue.  A great new premise, a great sexy couple, super powerful family and very steamy.  If you are a Christine Feehan fan, and even if you are not, you need to read Shadow Rider and get in on the fun.

 

Copy provided by Publisher

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Mojitos with Merry Men by Marianne Mancusi – a Review

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Mojitos with Merry Men by Marianne Mancusi – a Review

 

Mojitos with Merry MenAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Smashwords

Description:
Chrissie Hayward, NYC fashion photographer and thoroughly modern gal, has never been one to swoon over fairytales. So when a mysterious gypsy tells Chrissie that she is a “gentle soul who would tame an outlaw’s thirst for revenge,” she’s not totally convinced the woman isn’t a couple of beans short of a frapuccino. But when Chrissie finds herself suddenly transported back in time to rescue her crazy coworker Kat, she’s ready to believe anything is possible! If only she’d known she was going to meet her “true love,” a hottie in Sherwood Forest, Chrissie would have worn better shoes!

But it turns out Robin of Locksley, aka the real Robin Hood, isn’t exactly a Prince Charming. That bit about robbing the rich to feed the poor? He evidently hasn’t gotten the memo yet. In fact, he’s less a folk hero and more a brooding bad boy. Not to mention his not-so-merry men who are under the impression that Chrissie is actually a boy. I mean, sure, she’s not exactly stacked, but still! Nonetheless, Robin is loyal, brave, and handsome as sin. If Chrissie could just get him with the program, she knows she could right his wagon and get these boyz’n the wood to be heroes of the realm instead of twerps in tights. But if she’s not careful, Chrissie may find this prince of thieves stealing her heart…

 

 

Review:

Mojitos with Merry Men by Marianne Mancusi is the 2nd book in her Timeless Love series. Chrissie Hayward, our heroine, is the photographer for Kat, our heroine in the first book, in the Medieval fair.   She gets a desperate call for help and despite Kat’s silly tail about being stuck in the future, Chrissie will go to the gypsy for help.  Shortly thereafter, Chrissie herself is whipped back in time to Sherwood Forest, and Robin Hood.  The gypsy wants Chrissie to get from King Richard a drop of blood from the Holy Grail, which will help bring Kat and her gang back to the present.

Chrissie is very pretty, but thin and flat-chested, allowing her to disguise herself as a boy, and join Robin’s team.  Chrissie is surprised to find Robin not quite the hero everyone thinks  he is, but in no time, she has him doing what he was meant to do, and becoming a hero.  In the mix, she learns that Maid Marian has left him, and she too is not who we thought she was, betraying him along the way.   But Robin begins to worry why he is having feelings for the boy, and is happy to find out she is in fact a lady.  This was somewhat humorous, as Chrissie also realizes that she is falling in love with Robin.  She has to decide if she wants to stay in the 12th century or go back home where she really has nothing.  Chrissie must also bring back the vial of blood.

This was a cute time-travel romantic comedy.  I enjoyed the camaraderie between Chrissie and the merry men of Robin Hood’s team.  If you enjoy lighthearted romance, with time travel and some fun humorous moments, then I suggest you read Mojitos with Merry Men.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Under The Wire (Bad Boys Undercover #4) by HelenKay Dimon-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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UNDER THE WIRE (Bad Boys Undercover #4) by HelenKay Dimon-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

Under the Wire Banner

UNDER THE WIRE
Bad Boys Undercover #4
by HelenKay Dimon
Release Date: June 28, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, romantic suspense

Under The Wire

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 28, 2016

The Bad Boys of the Alliance—a top-secret military security agency—are back for more in HelenKay Dimon’s sexy, action-packed series

Only one thing could pull Reid Armstrong away from a vacation he’s earned with every muscle in his finely honed body—learning that his former fiancée has disappeared on a top-secret science expedition in the middle of nowhere. Second chances don’t come often in Reid’s business, and he needs to prove his worth to Cara Layne or die trying.

Waking up to find her camp destroyed and her colleagues missing, Cara is a walking target. She can’t trust anyone, least of all Reid. Even if his skills get them out alive, he’s a heartache waiting to strike twice. Yet being in close proximity proves their connection burns hotter than ever.

The body count is rising, the enemy is getting closer, and soon Reid will be right back in the position that cost him everything—forced to choose between the woman he loves, and the job that’s his only hope of saving them both

••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNDER THE WIRE is the fourth full length installment in HelenKay Dimon’s contemporary, adult BAD BOYS UNDERCOVER romantic suspense series focusing on a Black Ops Team known as Alliance-the merging of former CIA and MI6 agents whose assignments are dangerous and deadly. This is Alliance member Reid Armstrong, and geologist Cara Layne’s story line. UNDER THE WIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives UNDER THE WIRE focuses on the search for Cara Layne, and her missing research team in the Ural mountain range of Russia. When Cara’s team goes missing, and our heroine does not check in, Cara’s brother Caleb knows just the man who will do anything to find his missing sister. Enter Reid Armstrong, Cara’s former lover and fiancé, who has been ‘drafted’ into searching for the woman that he loves. What ensues is a search and rescues that reveals Cara’s assignment in Russia involves more than a geological expedition.

The relationship between Cara and Reid is one of second chances. Eighteen months earlier Reid and Cara fell in love during another rescue mission but Cara walked away believing everything happened too fast. Reid has never stopped loving Cara and wants to ensure that there is a future with the woman that he loves. The $ex scenes are limited but intimate without the use of over the top graphic imagery and text.

Several members of the Alliance team play supporting and secondary roles including Alliance leader and former MI6 agent Tasha Gregory; Parker Scott- a former CIA agent and Alliance member teams up with Reid in his search for Cara Layne; and Caleb Layne-the Alliance’s IT computer hacker (but don’t call him that) 😉

The world building continues to focus on the dangerous missions no other group is will to undertake, or have the ability to slip undetected in and out of foreign lands.

UNDER THE WIRE is a well paced, well written story of suspense. There are some scenes of violence though not graphic or in your face gore-not everyone will make it home alive. The premise is entertaining and intriguing; the characters are charismatic, colorful and engaging; the romance is a second chance at love for two people caught up in a world of espionage and danger. HelenKay Dimon’s BAD BOYS UNDERCOVER series is intense, romantic and passionate.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Running Hot .5
Playing Dirty
Falling Hard
Facing Fire
Under The Wire

Copy supplied by the publisher through Edelweiss

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

“Don’t make me sorry I brought you.” Reid walked around, mentally cataloging every stone and every leaf as Parker captured the scene in photographs.

“I can outshoot you but I do wish I could outrun you.” Parker broke the usual protocol of securing the scene and glared at Reid. “Just spill it. Is this an actual assignment or not?”

“It’s personal and . . .” His words trailed off as his eyes focused on the figure breaking through the mass of trees and heading right for them.

Parker must have picked up on the unexpected guest because he spun around and joined in the staring. They both watched as she got closer, stumbling and off balance, before stopping about ten feet away.

“One more step and I’ll blow your balls off.” Cara stood there, voice and hands shaking as the barrel of the gun bobbed around.

Relief smacked into Reid so hard that the breath whooshed out of him. He fought the urge to double over and rest his palms against his knees. He opted for putting his gun away instead, surprised when his hand trembled. “Thank God.”

Parker scoffed. “That’s your response to what she just said?”

“She’s bleeding.” The words kept repeating in Reid’s head before he finally said them out loud. Then he really looked at her. Her dark hair hung half in and half out of a ponytail band. She wore hiking boots but her utility pants had a long gash down the thigh. Ripped clothes. A bloody shirt. No jacket. Shaking hard enough to make her body sway.

Parker took a step toward her then stopped when she aimed the gun directly at him. “She looks like shit.”

Reid’s gaze toured her body, looking for obvious injuries. A hefty case of shock seemed to be right on the verge of kicking her ass. Not good. He needed her calm. Had to get her warm.

With careful steps, slow and as nonthreatening as possible, he moved in closer. “Cara, it’s me.”

She nodded and kept nodding. “I know.”

“Wait, you two are friends or something?” Parker asked.

“The threat still stands, Reid. I don’t trust anyone, including you.” She tightened her grip. “Do not move.”

“I like her so far.” Without any obvious footsteps, Parker had moved. Shifted his body until he drew almost even with her side. “Except for the part where she looks ready to pass out. Guns and fainting don’t mix.”

Reid agreed but didn’t let his concern for her show. “She knows how to handle a weapon.”

She glared at Parker. “And I’ve never fainted in my life.”

Anger. Reid took that as a good sign.

“Do you have a mirror?” Parker asked, drawing her attention back to him. “You look like you’ve been ripped apart by mountain lions.”

She frowned, as if sizing him up. “Weapons down and stop shuffling around.”

“That is never going to happen, sunshine.”

Her eyebrow lifted as her body seemed to steady. “Sunshine?”

Parker shrugged. “I thought I’d try flattery.”

Just enough talk. Reid moved in. One lunge and he’d have her gun. He didn’t want to rattle her or push her any closer to the edge. Didn’t want to get shot either. “Cara, look at me. I need you to lower that weapon.”

“I can’t.” She shook her head as her words came out in a new wave of panic heavy breaths.

“We’re here to help.”

Her eyes turned a little glassy, as if she had trouble focusing. “Someone called in the Alliance?”

“She knows about the Alliance?” Parker asked, sounding stunned at the idea. “Clearly I’m the only one who doesn’t know what’s going on right now.”

Reid ignored his friend. Blocked out the cool air and the danger involved in standing out there, exposed. Kept all of his attention on Cara.

“I came for you.” And that was not a lie. He would cross oceans without blinking if it meant keeping her safe. Their rough past didn’t change that.

She frowned. “How did you know where to find me . . . or to come now?”

“You’re in danger.” Reid thought the gnarled tent should make that obvious, but she clearly was not in a stable mental place to be able to reason things out for herself. “Cara, you have five seconds or . . .”

“Or what?”

“She asks a good question, man. What kind of threat do you intend to make next?” Parker whistled as he made one last move. He stood next to her with a hand close to her arm.

Reid waited for Parker’s slight nod. When it came, Reid knew they were ready. Both in position. They could disarm her without incident then get her help . . . and seek a few much-needed answers. But he needed to draw her attention first. “What the hell happened here?”

“They’re dead.” The desperate words sounded as if they’d been ripped out of her.

He forced his instincts back. Did not rush in or give in to the tension pumping through him. “Who, Cara?”

“My whole team.”

That didn’t really clear anything up for him or stop the tension shooting through him. “How did—”

“Reid.” The hand with the gun dropped to her side and she rushed forward, closing the short distance between them. Her free hand came up and fingernails dug into the sleeve of his thin jacket as her gaze searched his. “We need to hide.”

“I think she’s tipped over.” Parker slipped the gun out of her hand and checked it before tucking it away behind his back.

A wave of relief crashed over Reid, followed by an even bigger one of dread. “Let’s calm down for a second.”

She held on to him. Both hands now. Her fingers tightening around his biceps as her eyes and voice begged for help. “We have to go.”

Reid agreed she needed to get out of there and relax. “Why?”

“They’ll be back.”

He glanced at Parker, who just shook his head and asked, “Who is ‘they’?”

“They’re coming—” Her words cut off as she dragged in deep breaths. “This time they’ll kill me, too.”

About The Author

HelenKay DimonGoodreads/Website/Twitter/Facebook

Helenkay Dimon spent the years before becoming a romance author as a . . . divorce attorney. Not the usual transition, she knows. Good news is she now writes full time and is much happier. She has sold over thirty novels, novellas and shorts to numerous publishers. Her nationally bestselling and award-winning books have been showcased in numerous venues and her books have twice been named “Red-Hot Reads” and excerpted in Cosmopolitan magazine. But if you ask her, she’ll tell you the best part of the job is never having to wear pantyhose again.

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