Monthly Archives: December 2016

Hit The Spot (Dirty Deeds #2) by J. Daniels-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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HIT THE SPOT (Dirty Deeds #2) by J. Daniels-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

Hit the Spot Bannerpng

HIT THE SPOT
Dirty Deeds #2
by J. Daniels
Release Date: December 6, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Hit The Spot

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2016

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Is this love or just a game?

Tori Rivera thinks Jamie McCade is rude, arrogant, and worst of all . . . the sexiest man she’s ever laid eyes on. His reputation as a player is almost as legendary as his surfing skills. No matter how her body heats up when he’s around, she’s determined not to be another meaningless hookup.

Jamie McCade always gets what he wants. The sickest wave. The hottest women. And Tori, with her long legs and smart mouth, is definitely the hottest one. He knows Tori wants him-hell, most women do-but she won’t admit it. After months of chasing and one unforgettable kiss, it’s time for Jamie to raise the stakes.

Jamie promises that soon Tori won’t just want him in her bed, she’ll be begging for it-and he might be right. Somehow he’s found the spot in her heart that makes her open up like never before. But with all she knows about his past, can she really trust what’s happening between them? Is Jamie playing for keeps or just playing to win?

•••••••

REVIEW: HIT THE SPOT is the second installment in J. Daniels’ contemporary, adult DIRTY DEEDS erotic, romance series. This is professional surfer and surf shop owner twenty eight year old Jamie McCade, and diner waitress Tori Rivera’s story line. HIT THE SPOT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous book is revealed where necessary. Some of the timeline runs parallel to the events of book one FOUR LETTER WORD.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Jamie and Tori) HIT THE SPOT focuses on the tumultuous relationship between surfer Jamie McCade, and waitress Tori Rivera both of whom we met in book one FOUR LETTER WORD. Tori is best friends with Sydney Paige; Jamie is best friends and business partner with Brian ‘Dash’ Savage –the leading couple in Four Letter Word. For close to ninth months Tori and Jamie have danced around one another in a game of palpable, angry sexual energy until Jamie has had enough of their back and forth, and takes the next step in a relationship based upon mutual hatred and attraction-Jamie’s obsession with Tori and his foul mouth make for some curious comments and story line moments.

Jamie is a rude, crude and obnoxious professional surfer- a manwhore- whose reputation and personality has rubbed our heroine in all of the wrong ways but Tori’s attraction to Jamie continues to grow despite their aggressive and sassy back and forth. Tori is a young woman determined to make it on her own whose most recent relationship ended when she discovered the man she thought she loved was already married with children. What ensues is the building love between Jamie and Tori-a love that will be tested time and again due in part to Tori’s inability to trust the man with whom she is falling in love.

Shay and Stitch-Tori’s coworkers at the diner-return as their ‘friendship’ continues to hit the skids. Tori’s boss Nate is more or less absent throughout most of the book. We are introduced to Jamie’s sister Quinn McCade, and their brother Dr. Travis McCade, as well as Tori’s parents Dee and John Rivera.

HIT THE SPOT is a sexy read about a man who makes no apologies for his behavior or his need for the woman that calls to his heart. There is plenty of cursing and vulgar language used by our story line hero. The premise is lighthearted, entertaining and erotic; the characters are colorful, charismatic and animated; the romance is sensational and inspiring. J. Daniels HIT THE SPOT is a riveting take on an enemy to friends to lovers trope that will seduce the reader in all of us.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of FOUR LETTER WORD-Book one in the Dirty Deeds series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Hit The spot Teaser

J. Daniels’s TOP FIVE SONGS that make the author emotional:

1. Say Something by A Great Big World.
2. Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton.
3. Wild Horses by The Rolling Stones.
4. Awake by Secondhand Serenade.
5. Three Little Birds by Bob Marley

excerpt

Tori slapped the counter and gained everyone’s attention when she started yelling, “I did not run you over, Jamie! Jesus Christ! Quit spreading lies about me!”
“It ain’t lies if it’s true!” I yelled back, glaring at her.
A laugh bubbled in her throat. She tilted her head and stuck her hand on her hip. “Please. I’m sure you’re still able to bang everything with a pulse, as usual, which means you’re fine. Get over it, and grow some balls. I cried less when I watched Bambi the first time.”
“Who’s hungry?” Syd asked nonchalantly, moving behind her friend to round the island and stand near the stove.
I ignored her question because, what the fuck? Grow some balls?
“I gotta pair, babe,” I told Legs, reaching down and palming my shit. “You should know since you’ve been all up on ’em the past nine months.”
She rolled her eyes. “You’re disgusting.”
I felt my mouth twitch.
And that was when, for some fucked up reason, I reverted back to my old ways with Tori Rivera, forgetting all about how much I fucking hated her and instead going full-on, hell-bent determined to get an admission out of that smart-ass mouth.
“You want it,” I countered, tipping my chin up.
She wasn’t expecting that. No more than I was. It threw her off.
Her shoulders pulled back and her lips parted.
Then, maybe to cover her tell, or maybe she didn’t have control over what was flying out of her mouth either, I didn’t know, but she brought her other hand to her hip, glared at me with heat flashing in her eyes, tipped forward, and shot back with attitude, “You want it.”
Well shit. This was new. Legs was challenging me and she was doing it flirting. There was no doubt in my mind.
“Sorry, babe,” I said, keeping the smirk and letting go of my junk. “Not interested. I told you yesterday, I’m done waitin’ around. But you?” I pointed my beer at her. “You’ll be beggin’ for it before the month is up. Just watch.”
“Fat chance,” she snapped. “I wouldn’t sleep with you if my life depended on it.”
“Wanna bet?”
“Bet what?”
“What’s going on right now?” Syd called out, but I wasn’t pausing to answer her.
I smiled at Tori, then gestured between us, explaining, “First one to break and come crawling to the other person for sex, loses.”
“Are you serious?” She laughed, not in amusement but in disbelief.
“Yeah, I’m serious,” I answered.
“You want to bet me that I’ll want to have sex with you before you try and have sex with me?” she questioned, moving her finger between us. “You, the guy who has been hitting on me for nine straight months and has been rejected for nine straight months? You seriously think I’ll not only want to have sex with you, but I’ll beg you for it? Is that what I just heard?”
I nodded slowly. I had this in the bag. “A rule. No fuckin’ anyone unless it’s each other.”
Her eyes bugged.
“And no masturbating either,” I added, raising my beer and using it to gesture. “Since we both know when you do it you’re thinkin’ about me, and if you’re that fuckin’ horny you need to rub one out or you’ll fuckin’ explode, you can come to me, Legs, beg, and I’ll put that fire out for you.”

About The Author

J. Daniels is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sweet Addiction series, the Alabama Summer series, and the Dirty Deeds series.

She would rather bake than cook, she listens to music entirely too loud, and loves writing stories her children will never read. Her husband and children are her greatest loves, with cupcakes coming in at a close second.

J. Daniels grew up in Baltimore and resides in Maryland with her family.

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12 Days of Bookmas with Jayne Ann Krentz – Day 9

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12 Days of Bookmas with Jayne Ann Krentz – Day 9

 

 

The Reading Cafe is thrilled to participate in The 12 Days of Bookmas with JAYNE ANN KRENTZ to celebrate the release of her latest novel, When All the Girls Have Gone. Jayne is answering a question, as well as giving us a book recommendation. Thanks to Berkley there is also a special Giveaway for you to enter below.


TWELVE DAYS OF BOOKMAS
By
Jayne Ann Krentz

In which I answer the twelve questions that I am most frequently asked and recommend a book for that hard-to-buy-for person on your holiday list.

NINTH DAY OF BOOKMAS

Question # 9:  What inspired the hero and heroine of your new JAK title, WHEN ALL THE GIRLS HAVE GONE?

I love to write stories about people who are in the process of reinventing themselves. Case in point, WHEN ALL THE GIRLS HAVE GONE.  The heroine, Charlotte Sawyer, and her step-sister, Jocelyn, are opposites in many ways.  Charlotte has always admired Jocelyn who is bold, attractive and strong. Charlotte, on the other hand, thinks of herself as the one-foot-in-front-of-the-other type.  The therapist she talked to after she got stood up at the altar told her that she needed to learn to be more spontaneous.

But Charlotte and Jocelyn share a strong connection and when Jocelyn goes missing it is Charlotte – the woman who doesn’t see herself as brave or reckless — who risks her life to find her.

The hero, Max Cutler, is a former criminal profiler turned struggling private investigator. His previous career went down in flames – literally – and now he is trying to rebuild his life.

WHEN ALL THE GIRLS HAVE GONE is all about family bonds, the kind that exist in families linked by blood as well as within the families that we create by choice. I hope readers enjoy it.

Day 9 Book Recommendation for Holiday Gifting:

I am fascinated by novels of romantic-suspense in which the danger lurks in the shadows close to home.  I know a lot of readers share that fascination.  If you’ve got one on your list I can highly recommend this book. This is absolutely terrific romantic-suspense.  Intense, gritty and, laced with occasion jolts of humor.

BECAUSE I’M WATCHING by Christina Dodd.

 

WHEN ALL THE GIRLS HAVE GONE
Release Date: November 29, 2016

 

Jayne Ann Krentz, the New York Times bestselling author of Secret Sisters, delivers a thrilling novel of the deceptions we hide behind, the passions we surrender to, and the lengths we’ll go to for the truth…
 
When Charlotte Sawyer is unable to contact her stepsister, Jocelyn, to tell her that one of her closest friends was found dead, she discovers that Jocelyn has vanished.  
 
Beautiful, brilliant—and reckless—Jocelyn has gone off the grid before, but never like this. In a desperate effort to find her, Charlotte joins forces with Max Cutler, a struggling PI who recently moved to Seattle after his previous career as a criminal profiler went down in flames—literally. Burned out, divorced and almost broke, Max needs the job.   
 
After surviving a near-fatal attack, Charlotte and Max turn to Jocelyn’s closest friends, women in a Seattle-based online investment club, for answers. But what they find is chilling…
 
When her uneasy alliance with Max turns into a full-blown affair, Charlotte has no choice but to trust him with her life. For the shadows of Jocelyn’s past are threatening to consume her—and anyone else who gets in their way..

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Read our review on When All The Girls Have Gone

 

T

About the author

 

 

Jayne Ann Krentz is the author of more than fifty New York Times bestsellers. She has written contemporary romantic suspense novels under that name, as well as futuristic and historical romance novels under the pseudonyms Jayne Castle and Amanda Quick, respectively. Learn more at jayneannkrentz.com and connect with her on facebook.com/JayneAnnKrentz.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads

 

 

 

Jayne Ann Krentz’s publisher, Berkley Publishing is offering a paper copy of SIREN’S CALL 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 in, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

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3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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6. Like Jayne Ann Krentz on Facebook for an additonal entry

7. Giveaway is open to US Only

8. Giveaway runs from December 9th to 13th, 2016

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Island of Glass by Nora Roberts – a Review

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Island of Glass by Nora Roberts – a Review

 

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Description:
As the hunt for the Star of Ice leads the six guardians to Ireland, Doyle, the immortal, must face his tragic past. Three centuries ago, he closed off his heart, yet his warrior spirit is still drawn to the wild. And there’s no one more familiar with the wild than Riley—and the wolf within her…

An archaeologist, Riley is no stranger to the coast of Clare, but now she finds herself on unsure footing, targeted by the dark goddess who wants more than the stars, more than the blood of the guardians. While searching through Irish history for clues that will lead them to the final star and the mysterious Island of Glass, Riley must fight her practical nature and admit her sudden attraction to Doyle is more than just a fling. For it is his strength that will sustain her and give her the power to run towards love—and save them all…

 

Review:

Island of Glass by Nora Roberts is the final book in her wonderful Guardians Trilogy. As in all of Nora’s trilogies, each book brings together the designated couple to fight against evil; but most importantly, the three couples become friends, and always work together throughout the series to complete their mission. In Island of Glass, Riley and Doyle take the lead in finishing off Nerezza, the evil witch.  A refresher to those who have not read this series:  The six heroes (guardians) have been brought together by goddesses to find the 3 missing stars (water, fire & ice) to be able to defeat the evil goddess who will do anything to stop them, and turn the world into darkness. The 6 are Sasha, the seer; Bran, the magician; Sawyer, the traveler; Annika, the mermaid; Riley, the archaeologist and werewolf; and Doyle, the immortal swordsman The final star, the Star of Ice, brings the six to Ireland, which is Doyle and Bran’s homeland. 

As they prepare for their final battle with Nerezza, we get to see the relationship between Riley and Doyle change, as they both discover their feelings, and the knowledge that they were meant for each other.  Riley has always been a leader, with her knowledge from being an archaeologist and her toughness with the wolf inside her.  She was such a great heroine all through the series, and I loved how close she became to her “sisters”, Sasha and Annika.  This wasn’t an easy romance, as Doyle had issues from his immortality, and closing his heart centuries ago.  But the friendships, closeness and loyalty for the 6, helped Doyle open his heart again, thereby opening his heart to Riley.

They searched in various parts of Ireland, especially by Bran’s home, but Nerezza was there with her beasts to try and stop them, coming very close to killing Riley.  The last 1/3 of the book was very exciting, with pulse pounding action that kept me reading into the night, as I could not put the book down.  I had to know how this would end.  To tell too much more would be spoilers.  I will say that Nora Roberts does a fantastic job writing this finale to a wonderful fantastic conclusion.   

If you have not started this trilogy, you are missing a gem, which you will need to start with the first book, Stars of Fortune.  This is a fantastic three books that give us wonderful characters, as they all bond into wonderful friendships and loyalty to each other.  You will eventually fall in love with all three couples.  If you enjoy exciting suspenseful, action filled stories, great characters & romances, and evil villains, you should be reading every trilogy by Nora Roberts.  She always gives us fantastic trilogies.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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More Than Anything by Kimberly Lang- Review, Interview & Giveaway

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More Than Anything by Kimberly Lang – Review, Interview & Giveaway

 

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Description:
The small, waterfront town of Magnolia Beach, Alabama, gets its fair share of tourists breezing in and out, but one handsome visitor might just be tempted to stay…
 
Running the Bay Breeze marina means Shelby Tanner is used to fielding strange requests from vacationers, but she is still less than amused when she gets a call in the middle of the night to rescue a boat stranded nearby. The clueless sailor is infuriatingly inexperienced—yet also frustratingly attractive.
 
Architect Declan Hyde only planned on stopping in Alabama briefly on his move from Chicago to Miami, but Magnolia Beach is proving to be more captivating than he imagined. For one thing, there’s the sweet, Southern charm. For another, there’s the stunning tomboy who rescued him from the bay and keeps invading his thoughts.
 
As the time draws near for Declan to weigh anchor, he begins to realize that Shelby may have saved more than his boat that night—and leaving Magnolia Beach might set his lonely heart permanently adrift…

 

Review:

More Than Anything by Kimberly Lang is the 3rd book in her Magnolia Beach series.  Shelby Tanner is our heroine in this book, and we met her in the first book of this series.   Shelby runs the Bay Breeze marina for her family, and she loves her job, even if she is always on call.   In the middle of the night, she gets an emergency call for help from a vacationer stranded on a boat.  Declan Hyde, our hero, is the stranger who needs to be rescued by Shelby.  Declan comes across as a loner, since people in Magnolia Beach never see him, including Shelby.  Declan is an architect, who is starting a new job in Miami in a couple of months.  His friend loaned him the boat to stay on, and Declan keeps to himself, reading and watching tv. 

Shelby finds him strange, but is determined to teach Declan how to use the controls on the boat in an emergency.  What follows is a friendship that will blossom into a scorching romance.  Both Declan and Shelby know this is short term only, but they are enjoying the benefits.  Declan, with Shelby’s persuasion, gets himself out into the town and meets all the townsfolk, including the overprotective Tanner family.  It was fun to watch Shelby’s family; especially her brother and cousins who put pressure on Declan.  In time, Declan learns more about Shelby, her life as the only Tanner girl, and her secret plans to upgrade the marina.  Of course, Shelby never thinks anyone will pay attention to her, but Declan pushes and helps her to explore the possibilities for the future of Bay Breeze marina.

As things continue to get hotter between Shelby and Declan, their feelings for each other become stronger, thereby creating problems when Declan’s job sends him away from Shelby and Magnolia Beach. Will Shelby be able to forget Declan?  Will Declan miss Shelby and Magnolia Beach?

I really loved their romance, and Lang did a fantastic job creating such a sweet storyline.  More Than Anything was a fun, sweet, enjoyable romance, and the town of Magnolia Beach remains a fun place to visit.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Interview 1

Hi Kimberly.  Thank you for taking the time today, to answer some questions for our members at The Reading Café.  We are always looking forward to reading about the author behind the book.

 

 

Kimberly:  Hi there! I’m so happy to be here and will endeavor to be interesting (or at least entertaining!).

 

 

 

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Kimberly:   I’m a Sagittarius. I have a close, personal relationship with tea. I humor my dog’s neuroses a little too much sometimes. The Nerd Wars rage in my home (Liberal Arts Nerd vs. Science/Tech Nerd), and I think I am losing.  I love the soundtrack to The Little Mermaid.

TRC:  Did you always have an interest in writing?  When and how did you first start writing?

Kimberly:  Like many English majors, I always threatened to write a book, and I always said that book would be a romance. Although I’ve been telling myself stories for years, I didn’t start writing those stories until I was in my 30s. I guess it took a while for me to work up the courage. I have a background in dance, so I was already familiar with the idea of being “good, but not good enough,” and I think that worry held me back for a while. I finally submitted my first manuscript in 2004 and sold (a completely revised version of it) in 2008.

TRC:  More Than Anything, the 3rd book in your Magnolia Beach series, was released on Tuesday.   For our members who have not read this series, can you tell us the premise of the Magnolia Beach?

Kimberly:  It’s the lives and times of the good people of Magnolia Beach, a small town on the Alabama coast, where the men are all ridiculously good-looking — and single — Alpha males.  

TRC:  How did you come up with the idea of Magnolia Beach, and how many books are you planning for this series?

Kimberly:  The Magnolia Beach books give me the chance to celebrate everything I love about the South and poke fun at it, too. It’s all rooted in truth, so there’s both freedom and joy in writing what I know. As for how many books… Well, there are more stories to tell, so if the readers are willing to read them, I’ll be happy to write them.

TRC:  Can you please give us a brief description of More Than Anything?

Kimberly:  This is Shelby Tanner’s story, the one girl in a generation of Tanner boys, who meets a handsome recluse who’s only in town for a short while. He needs something to believe in, and she needs someone to believe in her.

TRC:  You write Contemporary Romance. Have you thought about writing in other genres?

Kimberly:  I read in many genres, especially historical, and while I toy with the idea occasionally, I don’t think I’ll try.  I love contemporary too much and have too much fun writing it to do anything else.

TRC:  What is your writing process?  Do you like to outline your story before you start? Do you have a specific place you like to write?  Is there a special time of day that works best for you?

Kimberly:  I am learning to outline. I’m not great at it yet, but I’m trying. For the most part, I write in the mornings, either at my desk (with Cupid snoring behind me under the printer) or curled up in the recliner. Wherever I am, I have to have my tea. 🙂

TRC:  What books, authors or people in your life have influenced your writing? 

Kimberly:  Professionally, I’m fortunate to have a supportive group of writer friends who offer both great advice and support and are definitely an influence. Creatively, Jenny Crusie, Julia Quinn, Julie Garwood, Linda Howard, and Linda Winstead Jones — that’s the kind of writer I want to be.

TRC:  When you are not writing, what other interests or hobbies do you have?

Kimberly:   I teach a combination yoga-Pilates class (it’s fun and it combats the time I spend — and the snacking I do —  in my chair). I love crossword puzzles, and one day, I am determined to learn to knit.

TRC:  Would you like to add anything else?

Kimberly:  I borrowed a song from Chapman James, a songwriter friend of mine, to use in the book because it’s perfect for Declan and Shelby’s story. “My Soul’s in Alabama” speaks to Declan because it helps him see what he’s leaving behind. It’s a beautiful song, and you can get a listen here: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/chapmanjames2

 

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Anything Mexican (please add extra guacamole).

Favorite Dessert:  Lemon things — lemon icebox pie, lemon bars, lemon cake with glaze…

Favorite TV Show:  Right now, Jane the Virgin and Reign. I’m binging Reign on my own — it’s got royals and drama and romance and intrigue — and Jane the Virgin is something I’m watching with my daughter. It’s both campy and sweet, and we’re addicted.

Favorite Movie or TV Celebrity: Dame Maggie Smith.  She’s a genius in everything.

Favorite Fictional Character (not your own):  I’m loving Matthew from Jane the Virgin right now. He’s a sweet beta in an Alpha job and role. He screws up, but he owns it and his love for Jane is never in question.

Milk or Dark Chocolate:  Milk. I feel that dark requires a maturity I don’t have.

Dog or Cat:  It would break my Cupid’s heart for me to say anything other than dog.

TRC:  Thank you Kimberly, for taking the time to answer our questions.  We wish you the best of luck with More Than Anything. 

Kimberly:  My pleasure! Thanks for having me!

If you want to learn more about Kimberly Lang, you can check out the following links:
Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

giveaway

Kimberly’s publisher is offering a paper copy of MORE THAN ANYTHING 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.

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

3. Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK and click GET NOTIFICATIONS

4. Please FOLLOW us on Twitter for an additional entry.

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

6. Follow Kimberly Lang   on Facebook.

7. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from December 8 –12, 2016

 

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Relentless (Fractured Farrells #5) by Mallory Crowe-a review

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RELENTLESS (Fractured Farrells: Damaged Billionaires Series #5) by Mallory Crowe-a review

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2016

Nathan has come to town for one reason: her.
And he’s not leaving until she’s his.

Nathan thought he’d be a happy bachelor forever, but things have changed. One by one his brothers have been falling prey to this whole “love” thing and Nathan has never come close to finding a woman who could tolerate him in large doses. Well, except for one. But this girl isn’t a fling. She’s long term, first class wife material. If he goes for her, it’s not for a one night stand. It’s for forever.

Katy Carey is busy. Too busy for love and much too busy for the assertive billionaire from her past who showed up out of nowhere and demanding they try to make things work. But as the Inn she manages starts to face one crisis after another, it becomes apparent that someone is trying to destroy the business she’s devoted her life and future to.

Now the man she just wanted to leave her alone ends up being a friendly ear, an ally and, scariest of all, her only hope.

••••••••

REVIEW:  RELENTLESS is the fifth and final installment in Mallory Crowe’s contemporary, adult FRACTURE FARRELLS: Damaged Billionaires romantic, suspense series focusing on the Farrell siblings. This is businessman Nathan Farrell, and Inn manager Katy Carey’s story line. RELENTLESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. The FRACTURED FARRELLS series is a spin off from Mallory’s BILLIONAIRES IN THE CITY series. You do not have to have read the original series to understand or comprehend the premise of the new series.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Nathan and Katy) RELENTLESS is a second chance, of sorts, between billionaire Nathan Farrell, and Seal Cove Inn manager Katy Carey. Years earlier, Katy had a wild crush on Nathan Farrell, her best friend’s boyfriend and the man who would break her sixteen year old heart. Fast forward to present day and Nathan Farrell feels he has been left behind. All of his siblings have found their happily ever after, and Nathan is caught in a perpetual circle of one night stands, or relationships of betrayal and pain. The one person who made him feel real; made him feel like he belonged is the young girl, now a woman, whose heart he destroyed years before. Enter Katy Carey, a small town Inn manager, and a woman facing threats from an unknown source. Nathan’s arrival at Seal Cove Inn comes with some unexpected troubles including a leaky roof, malicious damage and an expected murder. What ensues is the rekindling relationship between Nathan and Katy, and the search for a potential killer at the Seal Cove Inn.

The relationship between Nathan and Katy is one of second chances. Nathan walked out of Katy’s life years before, and in the ensuing time Katy has never forgotten the heartbreak and pain of the man that she once loved. Nathan’s determination to get Katy back into his life finds our hero make decisions that could affect their future together. The $ex scenes are intimate without the over the top graphic, erotic imagery.

All of the previous story line couples, and Farrell siblings play secondary and supporting roles including several employees of the Seal Cove Inn including front desk receptionists Sean and Sheila, as well as the Inn’s next door neighbor Levi Adams who may or may not be interested in Katy Carey.

RELENTLESS is a story of second chances; a romantic suspense focusing on Nathan’s need to forgive himself for the sins of his past; and moving forward towards a happily ever after. The premise is intriguing and heartwarming; the characters are spirited and energetic; the romance is passionate and moving. RELENTLESS is an intimate look at one man’s seduction of the woman he has always loved, and one woman’s need to make it on her own. Mallory Crowe’s amazing FRACTURE FARRELL series is a delightful look at family, friendships and happily ever afters.

I am looking forward to Mallory’s next spin off series- THE STOLEN HEARTS-and book one The Cocky Thief focusing on police officer Scott Hart-a character who was first introduced in the Fracture Farrells.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Ruthless
Reckless
Remorseless
Restless
Relentless

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Make It Hurt (Texas Bounty #2) by Jackie Ashenden-a review

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MAKE IT HURT (Texas Bounty #2) by Jackie Ashenden-a review

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2016

Nora Sutcliffe enjoys having tough guys at her mercy—preferably in handcuffs. The best fugitive recovery agent in the business, Nora always gets her man. But when her latest pursuit leads her to a notorious biker hangout, she’s reunited with “Smith”: the one man who was too hot for Nora to handle. Once upon a time, she was a rich girl and he was a bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks. Now she needs his help, and she’ll do whatever it takes to get it.

Eight years ago, Smith let a pretty little Texas debutante break his heart. He picked up the pieces, went to hell and back with the army, then rode out of the darkness with a gang of outlaws at his back. The last thing he needs is a blast from the past like Nora, who has reinvented herself as a gun-toting badass with the stones to challenge him in front of the whole club. But if she thinks Smith will give up one of his brothers for a single night of pleasure, she’s in for a rude awakening.

••••••••••

REVIEW: MAKE IT HURT is the second installment in Jackie Ashenden’s contemporary adult TEXAS BOUNTY erotic romance series. This is female bounty hunter Nora Sutcliffe, and president of the Graveyard Ministry MC Smith Tucker’s story line. MAKE IT HURT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Nora and Smith) MAKE IT HURT focuses on the rekindling romance between bounty hunter Nora Sutcliffe, and MC President Smith Tucker. Eight years earlier Nora all but destroyed Smith’s life when a then eighteen year old Nora refused to defend Smith against a series of accusations that led to his enlistment in the army and eventual life with the Ministry MC. Fast forward to present day wherein Nora’s latest assignment is to ‘bring in’ Garrett ‘Dust’ Brook-Smith’s best friend and MC vice-president. What Nora didn’t expect was to find Smith Tucker, and a reawakening of her shattered heart. What ensues is the rebuilding of a romance when Smith makes several demands of the woman that broke his heart.

The relationship between Nora and Smith is one of a rekindling romance; a love that was destroyed by a young woman’s fear of betrayal and loss; and one man’s need to control every aspect of his daughter’s life. Smith has never stopped loving Nora Sutcliffe, and Nora has never forgiven herself for her inability to protect Smith from her father’s wrath. The $ex scenes are intimate, provocative and hot- there is definitely no lack of chemistry between our leading couple.

Quinn Redmond (Take Me Deeper #1) makes a cameo appearance as does Nora’s boss Lily ‘Duchess’ Hammond who were first introduced in Texas Bounty #1. We are introduced to Smith’s VP Garrett ‘aka Dust’ Brook-a man who is willing to sacrifice himself to save the Ministry MC.

MAKE IT HURT is a story of second chances, forgiveness, and letting go of the past. Nora Sutcliffe’s character is abrasive and acerbic, and presents as cold and uncaring throughout a good portion of the book- her bad a$$ bounty hunter persona felt contrived and a little over the top. Smith is a man determined to uncover the truth about the past-one way or another even if he has to blackmail the woman that he has always loved. The premise is entertaining but lacked some of the impact of an MC story, and the believability was limited as it pertained to the Ministry MC; the characters are somewhat idealistic; the romance is erotic and intense.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of TAKE ME DEEPER book 1

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Marry Me on Main Street by LuAnn McLane – Review & Giveaway

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Marry Me on Main Street by LuAnn McLane – Review & Giveaway

 

 

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Description:
In her small shop on Main Street, Susan Quincy sells handmade gifts and repurposed items. But she can’t part with the beautiful rocking chair she bought at an estate sale when its maker turns out to be Danny Mayfield. Even years later, Susan still cringes over how her handsome, popular high school crush only asked her to prom out of pity—or so she thinks…
 
Danny doesn’t know why Susan has avoided him for years, especially after the electric kiss they shared the night of prom. So when he learns that she wants him to craft more rocking chairs to sell at her shop, Danny can’t resist the chance to work on his passion and charm shy, beautiful Susan again—and this time, make it last…

 

Review:

Marry Me on Main Street by LuAnn McLane is the 11th book in her wonderful Cricket Creek series.  I am a big fan of this series, as McLane always manages to give us a sweet romance in a small town atmosphere such as Cricket Creek. 

We meet our heroine, Susan Quincy, who runs Rhyme or Reason, a local gift shop with many handmade unique items.  Danny Mayfield is our hero, and over the years, he has wondered why Susan always avoids him.  Danny wants to change things, as he has always felt the attraction to Susan.  One of Susan’s biggest selling items is a beautiful rocking chair, which she learns Danny makes in his spare time.  This will be the start of a slow build romance that will start off as a friendship.  In a short time, we learn that when Susan went to the prom with Danny, she finds out their mothers arranged it.  This led Susan to think all these years that Danny was forced to go with her.  As it turns out, Danny has never forgotten that night, and together they realize they lost all those years for nothing, and the romance between this sweet couple escalates.

Danny loves making his own fine wood work, and it is Susan who will push him to do what he loves best.  But Danny feels he has to help his family fun Mayfield Marina, and does not want to rock the boat.  Another wonderful part of McLane’s series is the addition of a second romance, with a somewhat older couple.  I really did enjoy John (he runs the local sandwich shop)  and Betsy’s ( she works for Susan part time) story. 

As the story progresses, we enjoy watching Danny and Susan’s relationship heat up, as they were such a nice sweet couple.  The ending was very well done, as Danny’s surprise for Susan gives them both a wonderful happy future.   We also get to see John and Betsy relationship grow, and it was so much fun to see the other people we have gotten to know in Cricket Creek.

LuAnn McLane gives us another sweet story in Cricket Creek, which is always great to visit.  If you enjoy small town romances, you can’t go wrong reading this series, written so well by LuAnn McLane.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

giveaway

LuAnn’s publisher is offering a paper copy of MARRY ME ON MAIN STREET 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.

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7. Giveaway is open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from December 7 – 10, 2016

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This is Our Songby Samantha Chase- Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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THIS IS OUR SONG (The Shaughnessy Brothers #4) by Samantha Chase-Review, Excerpt and Giveaway

 

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

About the book: Release Date December 6, 2016

She knows him by reputation
Riley Shaughnessy knew that to stand out in his large family, he’d have to go big. Making a name for himself as a musician wasn’t easy, but he followed his dreams to rock-star success. But the relentless expectations of fans is not helping the slump he’s in now. So of course the person who attracts him is the woman who is not impressed by fame.

Which gives Riley Shaughnessy a lot to prove
Entertainment reporter Savannah Daly is completely unfazed by pretty-boy rock stars. She’s just here to get her interview and write her story. But spending an entire month with the Shaughnessys is going to show Savannah a side of Riley she never could have guessed.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THIS IS OUR SONG is the fourth installment in Samantha Chase’s THE SHAUGHNESSY BROTHERS romance series focusing on the Shaughnessy family. This is rock star Riley Shaughnessy, and entertainment reporter Savannah Daly’s story line. THIS IS OUR SONG can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: Seventeen years earlier the Shaughnessy’s lost their mother to a drunk driver that left six siblings (including a one year old infant) without a mother. Fast forward to present day where the now adult children continue to struggle with the loss. Riley’s connection to his mother is blessed with musical memories and an endearing song.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Riley and Savannah) THIS IS OUR SONG focuses on struggling rock star Riley Shaughnessy. Going solo should have been easy but one year earlier a scathing article debunking Riley’s stardom hit too close to home and our hero struggles to complete his latest album. To keep Riley in the spotlight, his publicist demands he willingly participates in a magazine interview that will find our hero falling in love with the entertainment reporter. Enter Savannah Daly-a journalist who goes into the interview with preconceived notions about Riley Shaughnessy, and a woman who battles her attraction to the man that calls to her heart.

Riley is a world famous rock star whose solo career has come to a grinding halt. Unable to complete his latest album Riley’s recording contract is in jeopardy-writer’s block and a fractured ego add to Riley’s list of personal demons. Savannah is a journalist who is reluctant to participate in Riley’s comeback. Entering into the Shaughnessy circle of family and friends finds our heroine falling in love with the Shaughnessy family and the man who will steal her heart. But Riley and Savannah’s future lies in jeopardy when the past catches up and fractures the building love between our leading couple. The $ex scenes are implied and fade to black.

All of the Shaughnessy brothers and sister Darcy, as well as patriarch Ian Shaughnessy and his girlfriend Martha play secondary and supporting roles. The Shaughnessy family continues to grow, and the next generation is close at hand.

THIS IS OUR SONG is a sweet, romantic story of family and love; struggle and moving forward; forgiveness and letting go of the past. The premise is heartwarming; the characters are passionate; the romance is intimate without the use of sexual imagery or text. Samantha Chase’s THE SHAUGHNESSY BROTHERS is will captivate your imagination.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Made For Us
Love Walks In
Always My Girl
This is Our Song

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

 

He didn’t just beat her in the best of three.
Oh, no. That would have been too easy.
No, Savannah—who realized too late that she was a very sore loser—kept egging him on until he finally put the paddle down after beating her in twelve games. Twelve! Why did she have to keep taunting him? Even while they were playing she couldn’t make herself ask him anything important. They talked about useless stuff—favorite bands, favorite foods—hell, at one point she’d even asked him his favorite color.
She hung her head low in defeat and put her paddle on the table. Riley had excused himself and went to get them each a drink. She prayed it was vodka. Something to make her forget this humiliation.
His prize at the end of the first three games was that she’d stay and have dinner with him.
After the next three she’d stay for a movie.
She really thought she was going to beat him in the third round. Unfortunately, it had been her biggest loss, and he’d simply chuckled and said he’d have to think about his reward. And he’d repeated that after the fourth and final win.
Riley cleared his throat when he walked back into the room and handed her a glass of ice water. They drank in silence for a few minutes. “That was fun,” he finally said, and Savannah realized he wasn’t being obnoxious and he wasn’t gloating. He genuinely looked like he’d had a good time.
And despite all the losing, Savannah would have to agree. It was fun.
“How do you feel about salmon for dinner?”
“It’s one of my favorites,” she said and was relieved he wasn’t gloating.
“It’s kind of early yet. Maybe we can watch a movie first?”
That was a reasonable request, and she agreed. Together they picked out a classic Neil Simon movie from 1967, Barefoot in the Park. “Ooo…Robert Redford.” She sighed. “Another favorite.”
Tucked away in a corner was one of the biggest flat-screen TVs Savannah had ever seen. Riley noticed her stunned look. “It’s one hundred ten inches. They don’t come any bigger than this right now. The picture’s great too.”
Two oversized recliners were centered in front of the screen and they each sat down. Riley started the movie and within minutes Savannah was more relaxed and they were both laughing along with the story.
She kicked her sandals off and tucked her feet up on the chair beside her. Next she pulled the clip out of her hair so she could relax her head against the back of the comfortable chair. Looking to her right, she saw Riley was watching her. His expression was intense and for the life of her, she couldn’t figure out what was wrong. “Is everything okay?”
He didn’t answer right away.
“Riley?”
“I still have to decide what I get for winning those last two rounds,” he said, his voice low and gravelly.
Savannah nodded, hypnotized by the way his eyes had gone so dark.
“I’m going to combine them into one request,” he said, and it sounded more like a warning than a statement.
“Okay.” Her own voice was almost a breathy whisper.
Leaning closer, Riley’s eyes zeroed in on her lips before meeting her eyes. “Savannah?”
“Hmm?”
“I’m going to kiss you. Twice.”
“Oh.”
His hand snaked out and around her nape and slowly drew her closer to him. And then his lips touched hers and Savannah’s brain simply stopped functioning. 


 

Guest Post

I’m one of those people who can multi-task. To a point. I do like almost complete silence while I write with the exception of my Sounds of the Ocean soundtrack playing. I can have twenty tabs open online and be on social media while I’m writing, but please don’t make me listen to anything! But amazingly enough, on most of my books I do end up with a playlist that helps me get the job done.

I just don’t listen to it while I’m writing.

I turn to it when I’m blocked – when I’m stuck in a scene and need to get hyper-focused on my characters. This is Our Song was kind of easy to have a playlist to because Riley is a musician. There were songs that I felt like I could imagine him singing or that the lyrics really applied to him.

So what was on my list and why? Here’s just one of the songs that was on my This is Our Song playlist!

True Love by Glenn Frey:

Even though Riley’s a world-famous rock star who is used to getting what he wants and not really having to work too hard at it because of his talent, that actually works against him with Savannah. Glen Frey’s song is all about learning to work toward true love and how rewarding that can be!

Favorite Line:
Out of the blue, out of the night
You came along and you changed my life
You got me feeling things, I swear I never felt before

I was lucky with This is Our Song because of Riley’s career. Some books it will just be a single (as in one) song that is on my playlist to help me over the humps. And sometimes I’ll have to listen to that song like five times in a row to get me in the proper mindset to write what I need to write.

Happy listening and I hope you enjoy This is Our Song!!

~~Samantha Chase~~

about the author

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Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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